Almsgiving and Charity better than being Religious in Praying, Fasting and Worshipping Mystery
Last Updated: 12 August 2021
Mystery of Heresies – Is Christ Centered Universalism Hope a Serious Heresy if wrong and what Heresy is Worse?
Source Post (please click for an easier reading):
https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=10161039520627784&id=651792783
Firstly, I am going to quote from Bible Verses “only” in this post to explain this position.
Example Fallacy
Universalism Hope is so serious that you will go to Hell even for considering it as a possibility. However, even if wrong, teaching the Prosperity Gospel doesn’t make anyone unsaved.
Reply
It is often a common mistake to assume and believe statements “without Scripture”.
So, what Says the Scriptures? Let’s see as follows:
1) Blessed Prophet Moses
Blessed Prophet Moses considered some type of Salvation for the damnable Wicked (a type of Universalism Thought) in Verse below:
“… 31Then Moses returned to the Lord and said, “Oh, these people have committed a great sin, and have made for themselves a god of gold! 32Yet now, if You will forgive their sin—but if not, I pray, blot me out of Your book which You have written.” 33And the Lord said to Moses, “Whoever has sinned against Me, I will blot him out of My book. 34Now therefore, go, lead the people to the place of which I have spoken to you. Behold, My Angel shall go before you. Nevertheless, in the day when I visit for punishment, I will visit punishment upon them for their sin.” 35So the Lord plagued the people because of what they did with the calf which Aaron made. …” (Exodus 32:31 – 35, NKJV)
Comment: Blessed Moses is asking for hope toward a people who made an “idol” (god of gold) even after witnessing the great miracles (so higher relative measure in Judgment) by asking God to “forgive their sin but if not, I pray, blot me out of Your book which You have written”.
Is Moses challenging God or Tempting God here by asking God to “Blot his name from the Book of Life”? Not at all as God didn’t even listen to Moses’ request and punished them as He Willed in Verses 34 – 35.
The fact that Moses risks his name to be omitted from the “Book of Life” (“The Book” referred to here) just so that these “Israeli Idolaters” may be forgiven sounds like Universalism Hoping in principle.
In Verses below, Moses Describes this Event further as follows:
“… 12“Then the Lord said to me, ‘Arise, go down quickly from here, for your people whom you brought out of Egypt have acted corruptly; they have quickly turned aside from the way which I commanded them; they have made themselves a molded image.’ 13“Furthermore the Lord spoke to me, saying, ‘I have seen this people, and indeed they are a [d]stiff-necked people. 14Let Me alone, that I may destroy them and blot out their name from under heaven; and I will make of you a nation mightier and greater than they.’ … 19For I was afraid of the anger and hot displeasure with which the Lord was angry with you, to destroy you. But the Lord listened to me at that time also. 20And the Lord was very angry with Aaron and would have destroyed him; so I prayed for Aaron also at the same time. … 25“Thus I [g]prostrated myself before the Lord; forty days and forty nights I kept prostrating myself, because the Lord had said He would destroy you. 26Therefore I prayed to the Lord, and said: ‘O Lord God, do not destroy Your people and Your inheritance whom You have redeemed through Your greatness, whom You have brought out of Egypt with a mighty hand. 27Remember Your servants, Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob; do not look on the stubbornness of this people, or on their wickedness or their sin, 28lest the land from which You brought us should say, “Because the Lord was not able to bring them to the land which He promised them, and because He hated them, He has brought them out to kill them in the wilderness.” 29Yet they are Your people and Your inheritance, whom You brought out by Your mighty power and by Your outstretched arm.’ …” (Deuteronomy 9:12 – 14, 20 – 21, 25 – 29, NKJV)
So it’s clear that God Accepted Moses’ Prayer of Forgiveness on behalf of the Israelites for some (e.g. high priest Aaron explicitly mentioned by name in Deuteronomy 9:20) and spared them whilst destroyed others.
The “Book of the Living” or “Book of Life” Quoted here refers to this Final “Judgment Day Book” as follows:
“… Let them be blotted out of the book of the living, And not be written with the righteous. …” (Psalm 69:28, NKJV)
“… He who overcomes shall be clothed in white garments, and I will not blot out his name from the Book of Life; but I will confess his name before My Father and before His angels. …” (Revelation 3:5, NKJV)
Did you know that the “White Garment” refers to “Good Works type of Faith”? Verse in Revelation itself explaining the meaning of this phrase “…He who overcomes shall be clothed in white garments …” (Revelation 3:5) referring to the “OVERCOMERS” here is as follows:
“… 7Let us be glad and rejoice and give Him glory, for the marriage of the Lamb has come, and His wife has made herself ready.” 8And to her it was granted to be ARRAYED IN FINE LINEN, CLEAN AND BRIGHT, for the FINE LINEN is the RIGHTEOUS ACTS OF THE SAINTS. 9Then he said to me, “Write: ‘Blessed are those who are called to the marriage supper of the Lamb!’ ” And he said to me, “These are the true sayings of God.” . …” (Revelation 19:7 – 9, NKJV)
So are we “OVERCOMERS”? (Please don’t forget relative measure, e.g. Luke 21:1 – 4, Luke 12:46 – 48 etc.)
In other words, when these two Verses in Revelation (Revelation 3:5, Revelation 19:7 – 9) are combined to understand the real meaning of “WHITE GARMENTS” for who are truly “OVERCOMERS”, it is clear that it’s for those who have “GOOD WORKS” with their “FAITH”. Can you see it as “It is Written”, please?
Whether you use the same Original Manuscript as the NKJV or the newly discovered Dead Sea Scrolls one (as per NIV or NASB) you will find that the WEDDING DRESS of HIS CHURCH (or Metaphorically called as the “BRIDE OF CHRIST“, as the highest Creation of God) is nothing else than the ACTION of RIGHTEOUS ACTS pointing to GOOD WORKS including the CHARITY DOCTRINE Primarily according to 1 John 3:17 – 18 or Luke 12:31 – 35 etc.
This proves that Blessed Prophet Moses was Praying on behalf of people who were “unworthy” to attain to these Promises in regards to the “Most Blessed Lamb’s Book of Life”.
2) Blessed Apostle St. Paul
“… 1I tell the TRUTH IN CHRIST, I am NOT LYING, MY CONSCIENCE also bearing me witness in the HOLY SPIRIT, 2that I have great sorrow and continual grief in my heart. 3For I COULD WISH THAT I MYSELF WERE ACCURSED [Greek “Anathema”] FROM CHRIST for my brethren, my [a]countrymen according to the flesh, 4who are Israelites, to whom pertain the adoption, the glory, the covenants, the giving of the law, the service of God, and the promises; 5of whom are the fathers and from whom, according to the flesh, Christ came, who is over all, the eternally blessed God. Amen. …” (Romans 9:1 – 5, NKJV)
Can you see that Apostle Paul is clearly declaring his “CHRIST CENTERED UNIVERSALISM HOPE” to the point that he is willing to be “ANATHEMA” (or eternally Condemned to an Eternal Hell*) if that can cause some of his unbelieving Israelites in the flesh to be “Saved” instead in Verses above?
*The Greek Word “Anathema” (Cursed, Cut off) is used on Heretics and those who “Preach a different Gospel”, example Verses below:
“… 8But even if we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel to you than what we have preached to you, let him be [b]ACCURSED [Greek “Anathema”]. 9As we have said before, so now I say again, if anyone preaches any other gospel to you than what you have received, let him be ACCURSED [Greek “Anathema”]. …” (Galatians 1:8 – 9, NKJV)
Comments:
- It’s clear that Apostle Paul himself quotes his Christ Centered Universalism Hope in the Context of Condition if God allows it, he is willing to be “Anathema” (Cut off from Christ, Cursed in Hell) if that can cause them to be saved.
- Apostle Paul calls this Christ Centered Universalism Hope as part of “… telling the TRUTH IN CHRIST, I am NOT LYING, MY CONSCIENCE also bearing me witness in the HOLY SPIRIT …” (Romans 9:1) above, can you see it?
- The Bible does “not” condemn such speech or thought or Christ Centered Universalism Hope here as long as like Apostle Paul (or Prophet Moses earlier) we respect the Decision of God in this.
- So having a Christ Centered Universalism Hope thought (in Principle of these Verses) is not a Blasphemy but a “Heart Spoken Truth” toward the rejected ones and very importantly is “not” considered a “Different Gospel” for if not Apostle Paul wouldn’t have Written it and Connected it with the Mysterious “Anathema” word either which is specifically designed for “heretics who preach another Gospel” which is clear when we combine Romans 9:1 – 5 and Galatians 1:8 – 9 to see this in Principle.
- Hence hoping such a thing is permitted in Scripture as long as we Respect God’s Decision on it either way regardless instead of Forcing God or Disrespecting Him in any way whilst doing so as the cases of both Great Prophet Moses (through whom the “Law/Torah” was given) and the Great Apostle Paul (the “Apostle to the Gentiles”) demonstrates here in Principle too.
- In short, as long as you are preaching New Testament Verses and New Testament Commands, it is not considered a “Different Gospel” and Vice Versa
3) Is Prosperity Gospel a small sin that doesn’t affect Salvation?
I cannot say 100% sure but the risk is real according to Verses below (and may God have Mercy on whom He Wills):
- i) In Principle trying to “sell God’s Gift with money” (example highly priced “Christian books, items etc.” whose money are partly used for “Prosperity” may come under this straight risk to Hell)
“… But Peter said to him, “YOUR MONEY perish with you, because you thought that the Gift Of God could be PURCHASED WITH MONEY! …” (Acts 8:20, NKJV)
If Preachers who sell this highly give to the poor and for ministry work and taking their needs only, I see no condemnation but if they take some part of it for “Prosperity” Pursuits the risk to Hell seems real in Principle of this Verse above.
- ii) Lying about Money in Regards to Ministry is considered as lying to the Holy Spirit case
“… 1But a certain man named Ananias, with Sapphira his wife, sold a possession. 2And he kept back part of the proceeds, his wife also being aware of it, and brought a certain part and laid it at the apostles’ feet. 3But Peter said, “Ananias, why has Satan filled your heart to lie to the Holy Spirit and keep back part of the price of the land for yourself? 4While it remained, was it not your own? And after it was sold, was it not in your own control? Why have you conceived this thing in your heart? You have not lied to men but to God.” 5Then Ananias, hearing these words, fell down and breathed his last. So great fear came upon all those who heard these things. 6And the young men arose and wrapped him up, carried him out, and buried him. 7Now it was about three hours later when his wife came in, not knowing what had happened. 8And Peter answered her, “Tell me whether you sold the land for so much?” She said, “Yes, for so much.” 9Then Peter said to her, “How is it that you have agreed together to test the Spirit of the Lord? Look, the feet of those who have buried your husband are at the door, and they will carry you out.” 10Then immediately she fell down at his feet and breathed her last. And the young men came in and found her dead, and carrying her out, buried her by her husband. 11So great fear came upon all the church and upon all who heard these things. …” (Acts 5:1 – 11, NKJV)
Comment: I am “not” exaggerating things here because you can clearly see that God didn’t even give a second chance for Ananias and his wife Sapphira for lying to the Holy Spirit in the context of “ministry money”. They went straight to Hell, right?
So this is a clear proof that what we think as a big sin (if wrong) sometimes could be not as big of a deal when compared to things like this which most Christians think that it’s not a big deal as long as they do ministry but here it’s clear that “ministry money sins” can lead straight to Hell for some.
Please notice also that Apostle Peter is not forcing Ananias and Sapphira to give to Ministry as he remarks that as long as it was yours, you can decide it but if you lie about money in the Context of Ministry/God, one may risk lying to the Holy Spirit and face a similar fate in the end.
iii) Lack of the Charity Doctrine Lifestyle sent the Rich Men to Hell as Christ Himself Revealed it as follows:
“… 19“There was a certain rich man who was clothed in purple and fine linen and [h]fared sumptuously every day. … The rich man also died and was buried. 23And being in torments in Hades, he lifted up his eyes and saw Abraham afar off, and Lazarus in his bosom. 24“Then he cried and said, ‘Father Abraham, have mercy on me, and send Lazarus that he may dip the tip of his finger in water and cool my tongue; for I am tormented in this flame.’ 25But Abraham said, ‘Son, remember that in your lifetime you received your good things, and likewise Lazarus evil things; but now he is comforted and you are tormented. 26And besides all this, between us and you there is a great gulf fixed, so that those who want to pass from here to you cannot, nor can those from there pass to us.’ …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 16:19 – 31, NKJV)
Conclusion
In light of these mostly “New Testament Bible Verses”, that’s why we consider “Christ Centered Universalism Hope” (not as a Doctrine but as a matter of the Heart as Scripture allows as we have seen letting God Decide in the End, Romans 9:1 – 5 which is “not” a different Gospel, Galatians 1:8 – 9 and Respecting His Revealed Decision on that Day, 1 Corinthians 4:5 below), and speak strongly against “Ministry Money sins and Prosperity Money Sins” (e.g. Ananias and Sapphira case in Acts 5:1 – 11 or the Simon the Magician wanted to purchase the “Gift of God with money”, Acts 8:20) which has clearly sent people to Hell and also Preach against the “lack of Almsgiving Doctrine” (lacking which also has sent people straight to Hell as per the Rich Man and Lazarus Story of Luke 16:19 – 31 and the Judgment Day Almsgiving Verses below next) for a Truly Complete “Whole Counsel of God Responsible Preaching of the Gospel”.
Yes, in the end, those without Almsgiving or the Charity Doctrine Lifestyle are the ones finally said to go to “Eternal” Hell (if the word here meant is eternal instead of age-during as the Original Bible Word can mean either) and so let God Decide it.
Yes, this Truth is most clear in the Judgment Day Verses below and that’s why the “Wise Virgins” ought to have more of these “Charity Works” as the Foolish Virgins had only “a little of it” (in relative measure) as Christ Spoke both these Topics in the “Same Context” or Principle in Verses below (please read it carefully “as it is Written”):
“… 1“Then the kingdom of heaven shall be likened to ten virgins who took their lamps and went out to meet the bridegroom. 2Now five of them were wise, and five were foolish. 3Those who were foolish took their lamps and took no oil with them, 4but the wise took oil in their vessels with their lamps. 5But while the bridegroom was delayed, they all slumbered and slept. 6“And at midnight a cry was heard: ‘Behold, the bridegroom [a]is coming; go out to meet him!’ 7Then all those virgins arose and trimmed their lamps. 8And the foolish said to the wise, ‘Give us some of your oil, for our lamps are going out.’ 9But the wise answered, saying, ‘No, lest there should not be enough for us and you; but go rather to those who sell, and buy for yourselves.’ 10And while they went to buy, the bridegroom came, and those who were ready went in with him to the wedding; and the door was shut. 11“Afterward the other virgins came also, saying, ‘Lord, Lord, open to us!’ 12But he answered and said, ‘Assuredly, I SAY TO YOU, I DO NOT KNOW YOU.’ 13“Watch therefore, for you know neither the day nor the hour [b]in which the Son of Man is coming. … 31“When the Son of Man comes in His glory, and all the [c]holy angels with Him, then He will sit on the throne of His glory. 32All the nations will be gathered before Him, and He will separate them one from another, as a shepherd divides his sheep from the goats. 33And He will set the sheep on His right hand, but the goats on the left. 34Then the King will say to those on His right hand, ‘Come, you blessed of My Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world: 35for I was hungry and you gave Me food; I was thirsty and you gave Me drink; I was a stranger and you took Me in; 36I was naked and you clothed Me; I was sick and you visited Me; I was in prison and you came to Me.’ 37“Then the righteous will answer Him, saying, ‘Lord, when did we see You hungry and feed You, or thirsty and give You drink? 38When did we see You a stranger and take You in, or naked and clothe You? 39Or when did we see You sick, or in prison, and come to You?’ 40And the King will answer and say to them, ‘Assuredly, I say to you, inasmuch as you did it to one of the least of these My brethren, you did it to Me.’ 41“Then He will also say to those on the left hand, ‘Depart from Me, you cursed, into the everlasting fire prepared for the devil and his angels: 42for I was hungry and you gave Me no food; I was thirsty and you gave Me no drink; 43I was a stranger and you did not take Me in, naked and you did not clothe Me, sick and in prison and you did not visit Me.’ 44“Then they also will answer [d]Him, saying, ‘Lord, when DID WE SEE YOU HUNGRY or THIRSTY OR A STRANGER OR NAKED OR SICK or in PRISON, and did not minister to You?’ 45Then He will answer them, saying, ‘Assuredly, I say to you, inasmuch as YOU DID NOT DO IT to one of the least of these, you DID NOT DO IT TO ME.’ 46And THESE WILL GO AWAY INTO EVERLASTING PUNISHMENT, but the righteous into eternal life.” …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 25:1 – 13, 31 – 46, NKJV)
Peace to you
Difficult but Beautiful Mysteries – St. Polycarp himself may have quoted that Archangel Raphael really came to earth in Tobit’s Story
Quotes:
“… STAND FAST, therefore, in these things, and FOLLOW THE EXAMPLE OF THE LORD, being firm and UNCHANGEABLE IN THE FAITH, loving the brotherhood, and being attached to one another, joined together in the truth, exhibiting the meekness of the Lord in your intercourse with one another, and despising no one. When YOU CAN DO GOOD, DEFER IT NOT, because “ALMS DELIVERS FROM DEATH.” [Tobit 12:9]” Be all of you subject one to another? having your conduct blameless among the Gentiles,” that YE MAY BOTH RECEIVE PRAISE FOR YOUR GOOD WORKS, and the Lord may not be blasphemed through you. But WOE TO HIM by whom the name of the Lord is blasphemed! Teach, therefore, sobriety to all, and manifest it also in your own conduct. …” – Blessed St. Polycarp, Bishop of Smryna, an Apostolic Father being the Disciple of the Blessed St. John the Apostle who wrote the Book of Revelation (c. 69 AD – c. 155 AD, CHAPTER X.–EXHORTATION TO THE PRACTICE OF VIRTUE, THE EPISTLE OF POLYCARP TO THE PHILIPPIANS)
Source: http://www.earlychristianwritings.com/text/polycarp-roberts.html
“… 6 Then he said to them SECRETLY: Bless ye the God of heaven, give glory to him in the sight of all that live, because he hath shewn his mercy to you. 7 For it is good to hide the secret of a king: but honourable to reveal and confess the works of God. 8 PRAYER IS GOOD WITH FASTING AND ALMS MORE THAN to lay up treasures of gold: 9 For ALMS DELIVERETH from DEATH, and the same is that which PURGETH AWAY SINS, and maketh to FIND MERCY AND LIFE EVERLASTING. … 15 For I am the angel RAPHAEL, one of the seven who stand before the Lord. …” (Bible Scripture.Net Translation, Tobit 12:6 – 9, 15)
Source: https://biblescripture.net/Tobias.html
Comment: Looks very clear that St. Polycarp is quoting this Tobit Verse Spoken by Archangel Raphael himself. This could imply that the Story of Tobit especially the Archangel Raphael’s part & his words about “Prayer, Fasting and Almsgiving” especially that “Alms delivers from Death” must be true, right? How can St. Polycarp err by quoting a fable?
Perhaps that’s why Christ Said this Mystery likewise regarding “Almsgiving”, Verse:
“… 39Then the Lord said to him, “Now you Pharisees make the OUTSIDE OF THE CUP and DISH CLEAN, but YOUR INWARD PART is full of [k]GREED and WICKEDNESS. 40FOOLISH ones! Did not He who made the outside make the inside also? 41But rather GIVE ALMS of [l]SUCH THINGS AS YOU HAVE; then indeed ALL THINGS ARE CLEAN TO YOU. 42“But woe to you Pharisees! For you tithe mint and rue and all manner of herbs, and pass by JUSTICE and the LOVE of GOD These you ought to have done, without leaving the others undone. …” The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 11:39 – 45, NKJV)
Mystery of not Outward Righteousness only but Inward Righteousness
Question
Doubtful. I don’t think alms deliver from death, much less purge away sins.
(This comment is based on the earlier post below):
https://www.facebook.com/jonathan.ramachandran/posts/10161021855207784
Reply
Context is Sanctification. Well Christ Said it Cleans “All” from “Inside of Lawlessness” in Luke 11:41, so it doesn’t matter what we think, Verses:
“… 28Even so you also OUTWARDLY APPEAR RIGHTEOUS TO MEN, but INSIDE YOU ARE FULL OF HYPOCRISY AND LAWLESSNESS. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 23:28, NKJV)
“… 39Then the Lord said to him, “Now you Pharisees make the OUTSIDE OF THE CUP and DISH CLEAN, but YOUR INWARD PART is full of [k]GREED and WICKEDNESS. 40FOOLISH ones! Did not He who made the outside make the inside also? 41But rather GIVE ALMS of [l]SUCH THINGS AS YOU HAVE; then indeed ALL THINGS ARE CLEAN TO YOU. . …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 11:39 – 41, NKJV)
Conclusion
Let’s not forget that “Judgment Day Verses” are “All Almsgiving” in Matthew 25:31 – 46. Example: “… When I was hungry, thirsty, naked, homeless … Etc. …”.
Here’s another rarely observed fact: The Rich Young Ruler in Matthew 19:21 – 25 kept the “Torah/Law’s Holiness Commands from his Youth without believing in Christ”. The only thing which he couldn’t do was this direction of “Almsgiving” as “Christ Himself Revealed” that this is what he “lacked”, Verses:
“… 16Now behold, one came and said to Him, “Good Teacher, WHAT GOOD THING SHALL I DO that I MAY HAVE ETERNAL LIFE?” 17So He said to him, “Why do you call Me good? No one is good but One, that is, God. But IF YOU WANT TO ENTER INTO LIFE, KEEP THE COMMANDMENTS.” 18He said to Him, “Which ones?” Jesus said, “‘You shall not murder,’ ‘You shall not commit adultery,’ ‘You shall not steal,’ ‘You shall not bear false witness,’ 19‘Honor your father and your mother,’ and, ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ ” 20The young man said to Him, “ALL THESE THINGS I HAVE KEPT [G]FROM MY YOUTH. What do I STILL LACK?” 21JESUS said to him, “IF you want to be PERFECT, go, SELL what YOU HAVE and GIVE to the POOR, and YOU WILL HAVE TREASURE IN HEAVEN; and come, FOLLOW ME.” 22But when the young man heard that saying, he went away SORROWFUL, for he had GREAT POSSESSIONS.23Then JESUS said to His disciples, “Assuredly, I say to you that it is HARD for a RICH MAN TO ENTER THE KINGDOM OF HEAVEN. 24And AGAIN I say to you, it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God. …” (Matthew 19:16 – 24, NKJV)
So where there’s even “full outward holiness” by “Obeying the 10 Commandments” as per this Rich Young Ruler, the “Lawlessness within” is not cleansed until “Almsgiving” (Charity Giving to the Poor) is Done and that’s the type of believing in Christ which is PERFECT according to CHRIST’S OWN DEFINITION. This is the most difficult challenge of FAITH toward PERFECTION.
Having faith in Christ saves you but having a more perfect faith in Christ gets you closer to God. So we are actually quite far away from God in Closeness due to lack of Almsgiving or the Doctrine of Renunciation for Sanctification as these Verses by CHRIST HIMSELF DIRECTLY (Highest Wisdom by His Words only Reveals) of which only about 12 of them attain to ‘this Perfection’ as these Verses continue as follows based on which their Reward is the 12 Thrones, Verses:
“… 27Then Peter answered and said to Him, “See, we have LEFT ALL and FOLLOWED YOU. Therefore what shall we have?” 28So Jesus said to them, “Assuredly I say to you, that in the REGENERATION, when the Son of Man sits on the throne of His glory, you who have followed Me will also sit on twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel. 29And EVERYONE who has LEFT HOUSES or brothers or sisters or father or mother or WIFE or children or LANDS, for MY NAME’S SAKE, shall RECEIVE a HUNDREDFOLD, and INHERIT ETERNAL LIFE. 30But MANY who are FIRST will be LAST, and the LAST FIRST. …” (Matthew 19:27 – 30, NKJV)
Christ Clearly Points that whilst discussing this Context of the “Almsgiving type of Faith which the Torah-10-Commandment Keeping Rich Young Ruler lacked” but the “12 Apostles of the Lamb Fulfilled toward Perfection” obtains the “Hundredfold Reward” (not sixty-fold, not thirty-fold; please notice the word “HUNDREDFOLD” carefully in Matthew 19:29 above toward those who have left something significant for the Gospel such as “family” or “wealth including LANDS or HOUSES which is Almsgiving Sacrifice toward ministry too”) in that only those who do something equivalent to that obtain the “HUNDREDFOLD” Reward & that’s how “MANY” (not few) will be “last” and the “last first” by “Doing and Practicing” this “Faith + Almsgiving Doctrine for Perfection” on which Context we can Quote Christ’s other Words on this Same Topic as follows to understand it Sola Scriptura also:
“… But others fell on GOOD GROUND and yielded a crop: some a HUNDREDFOLD, some SIXTY, some THIRTY. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 13:8, NKJV)
“… 29And EVERYONE who has LEFT HOUSES or brothers or sisters or father or mother or WIFE or children or LANDS, for MY NAME’S SAKE, shall RECEIVE a HUNDREDFOLD, and INHERIT ETERNAL LIFE. 30But MANY who are FIRST will be LAST, and the LAST FIRST. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 19:29 – 30, NKJV)
“… 19Whoever therefore BREAKS one of the LEAST of THESE COMMANDMENTS, and TEACHES men so, shall be called LEAST in the kingdom of HEAVEN; but whoever DOES AND TEACHES them, he shall be called GREAT in the kingdom of HEAVEN. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 5:19, NKJV)
“… So then, none of you can be My disciple who does not give up all his own possessions. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 14:33, NASB)
Or in another translation:
“… So likewise, whoever of you does not forsake all that he has cannot be My disciple …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 14:33, NKJV)
“… 31“But SEEK HIS KINGDOM, and THESE THINGS will be ADDED TO YOU. 32“Do not be afraid, little flock, for your Father has chosen gladly to give you the kingdom. 33“SELL YOUR POSSESSIONS and GIVE TO CHARITY; make yourselves money belts which do not wear out, an unfailing treasure in heaven, where no thief comes near nor moth destroys. 34“For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. 35“Be dressed in readiness, and KEEP YOUR LAMPS LIT. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 12:31 – 35, NASB)
Even if we cannot do this Perfection of Faith (I can’t), His Word is still True and let us Preach it Rightly and encourage others so that they may exceed us in this while we find our place according to the “Measure of Faith Given to us” be it “Thirty-fold faith or Sixty-fold faith” or “Hundredfold faith”. Yes, “faith is a Gift of God” and it’s not the same from one person to another but is different according to the “measure” given, Verse:
“… For I say, through the grace given to me, to everyone who is among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think, but to think soberly, as GOD HAS DEALT TO EACH ONE A MEASURE OF FAITH. …” (Romans 12:3, NKJV)
These 12 Apostles who Fulfilled this Gospel of Renunciation and Almsgiving Faith Perfectly whilst walking Penniless following after Christ are Honoured beyond Imagination as they Loved Christ Most as it’s Described in Verses below clearly in the “City of God” from “Heaven” as follows:
“… “Come, I will show you the [g]bride, the Lamb’s wife.” 10And he carried me away in the Spirit to a great and high mountain, and showed me the [h]great city, the [i]holy Jerusalem, descending out of heaven from God, 11having the glory of God. Her light was like a most precious stone, like a jasper stone, clear as crystal. … 14Now the wall of the city had twelve foundations, and on them were the [j]NAMES OF THE TWELVE APOSTLES OF THE LAMB. …” (Revelation 21: 9 – 11, 14, NKJV)
Not everything Christ Said is recorded in the Gospels, Verse:
“… And there are also many other things that Jesus did, which if they were written one by one, I suppose that even the world itself could not contain the books that would be written. Amen. …” (John 21:25, NKJV)
There’s also a popular myth many Christians believe which goes something like this: ‘… All that is important is clearly Written already …’. Truth is, some of the “Greatest Commands or Secret of Rewards” in “His Kingdom of Heaven” is “Hidden” and is only revealed in Parables sometimes which causes many to not understand it and therefore miss it except to those to whom it is referred to as it is Written in Verses below:
“… And He said, “To you it has been given to know the mysteries of the kingdom of God, but to the rest it is given in parables, that ‘Seeing they may not see, And hearing they may not understand.’ …” (Luke 8:10, NKJV)
“… And AGAIN THE LORD SAYS: Let the one who has married not be cast out, and let the one who has not married not marry. He who has confessed that he will not marry according to his decision of eunuchhood, let him remain unmarried….” – Blessed St. Clement of Alexandria, Head of the Cathecathical School At Alexandria (c. 150 AD – c. 215 AD, Miscellanies 3.15)
Source for ( “Agrapha ” ) Quote above:
https://web.archive.org/web/20080215124232/http://www.textexcavation.com/agrapha.html
Do you know that it’s “God’s Desire” that we should be “unmarried” in this New Covenant times? Proof Verse: ‘… 7For I WISH THAT ALL MEN WERE EVEN as I MYSELF. But each one has his own gift from God, one in this manner and another in that. 8But I say to the UNMARRIED AND TO THE WIDOWS: IT IS GOOD FOR THEM IF THEY REMAIN EVEN AS I AM …’ (1 Corinthians 7:7 – 8, NKJV). So it’s clear that God allows being married and not the other way around in this New Covenant times as it is compared and Written in Verses above.
We don’t need the “Agrapha” (outside the Bible) quote to prove the Context of this “Remain Unmarried Voluntarily” type of Following Christ which is Wished by Holy Scripture toward “all men” for this “New Covenant” times as Verses below confirm it as the “better way” than the marriage way to follow Christ (as it’s compared & contrasted in Scripture and so we must too), Verses:
“… 7For I WISH THAT ALL MEN WERE EVEN as I MYSELF. But each one has his own gift from God, one in this manner and another in that. 8But I say to the UNMARRIED AND TO THE WIDOWS: IT IS GOOD FOR THEM IF THEY REMAIN EVEN AS I AM; 9but if they cannot exercise self-control, let them marry. For it is better to marry than to burn with passion. … 28 But even if you do marry, you have not sinned; and if a virgin marries, she has not sinned. Nevertheless such will have TROUBLE IN THE FLESH, but I WOULD SPARE YOU. … 32But I want you to be without care. He who is UNMARRIED CARES FOR THE THINGS OF THE LORD—how he may PLEASE THE LORD. 33But HE WHO IS MARRIED CARES about the THINGS OF THE WORLD—how he may PLEASE HIS WIFE. … 38So then he who GIVES HER IN MARRIAGE DOES WELL, but he WHO DOES NOT GIVE HER IN MARRIAGE DOES BETTER. …” (1 Corinthians 7:7 – 9, 28, 32 – 33, 38, NKJV)
Did Christ Teach likewise that “not marrying” is better than “marrying” directly like Apostle St. Paul above (1 Corinthians 7:38)? Verses below as even His Disciples understood His Words such after understanding the “Law/Torah’s Requirements for Marriage” (in Verses earlier, not quoted here for emphasis on this part):
“… 10His disciples said to Him, “If such is the case of the man with his wife, it is BETTER NOT TO MARRY.” 11But He said to them, “All cannot accept this saying, but only those to whom it has been given: 12For there are [c]eunuchs who were born thus from their mother’s womb, and there are eunuchs who were made eunuchs by men, and there are eunuchs who have made themselves eunuchs for the kingdom of heaven’s sake. HE WHO IS ABLE TO ACCEPT IT, LET HIM ACCEPT IT.” …” (Matthew 19:10 – 12, NKJV)
So, this “eunuch” (not married) secret for the KINGDOM OF GOD (not an earthly way) is not for all but for “those who can accept it” (those “Chosen” for it) according to Christ above and that’s why we ought to Preach it even if we don’t practice it as it might be for someone who could be called for it (Responsible Preaching).
So, did you notice that both the “Almsgiving Doctrine” and “Remain Unmarried for Christ to live a Lifestyle to Fulfill His Commands” is purely dependent upon New Testament Verses “only”? The Church Fathers’ Quotes or “Agrapha” quotes etc. are not necessary but help us understand that they too understood these “Bible Verses” in the same way and hence such Pearls of Scripture may be attained by those who are Chosen for it:
“… 6“Do not give what is holy to the dogs; nor cast your pearls before swine, lest they trample them under their feet, and turn and tear you in pieces. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 7:6, NKJV)
Yes, whatever Christ Commanded or Exhorted Directly or through His Apostles is “Holy” and a “Pearl”. If we “Preach these New Testament Verses” and people “revile or persecute” us for it in any way be it “economic boycott from job/, opportunities or cast aside from Church or equivalent”, we may fulfill this Verse in some little way:
“… 11Blessed [Makarioi] are you WHEN THEY REVILE AND PERSECUTE YOU, and say ALL KINDS OF EVIL AGAINST YOU FALSELY FOR MY SAKE. 12Rejoice [chairete] and be exceedingly glad, for great is your reward in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you. …” (Matthew 5:11 – 12, NKJV)
The Verses below Describe this “Charity Doctrine Lifestyle” as fulfilling the “Will of the Father” in our daily lives and especially with “our money” to attain to our “eternal Home” (reward level) as follows (yes, please note that this is the same Greek Word translated as “Eternal” in “Eternal Life or Eternal Punishment” in Matthew 25:46 too and so this is important if we do not want to lose our eternal rewards), Verses:
“… 9“And I say to you, MAKE FRIENDS FOR YOURSELVES by UNRIGHTEOUS [D]MAMMON, that when [e]you fail, they may receive you into an EVERLASTING HOME. 10He who is faithful in what is least is faithful also in much; and he who is unjust in what is least is unjust also in much. 11Therefore IF YOU HAVE NOT BEEN FAITHFUL IN THE UNRIGHTEOUS MAMMON, WHO WILL COMMIT TO YOUR TRUST THE TRUE RICHES? 12And if you have not been faithful in what is another man’s, who will give you what is your own? 13“No servant can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, or else he will be loyal to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and mammon.” …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 16:9 – 13, NKJV)
Or in another translation:
“… 9Here’s the lesson: USE YOUR WORLDLY RESOURCES to BENEFIT OTHERS AND MAKE FRIENDS. Then, when your possessions are gone, they will welcome you to an ETERNAL HOME. 10“If you are faithful in little things, you will be faithful in large ones. But if you are dishonest in little things, you won’t be honest with greater responsibilities. 11And IF YOU ARE UNTRUSTWORTHY ABOUT WORLDLY WEALTH, who will trust you with the TRUE RICHES OF HEAVEN? 12And if you are not faithful with other people’s things, why should you be trusted with things of your own? …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 16:9 – 12, NLT)
The missing part of the Great Commission is Teaching His “Commands” (not Prophecy or other things which are secondary to His “Commands”) as the phrase “…20TEACHING THEM TO OBSERVE ALL THINGS THAT I HAVE COMMANDED YOU; …” means below:
“… 18And Jesus came and spoke to them, saying, “All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. 19Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20TEACHING THEM TO OBSERVE ALL THINGS THAT I HAVE COMMANDED YOU; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” Amen. …” (Matthew 28:18 – 20, NKJV)
“… 46“But WHY DO YOU CALL ME ‘LORD, LORD,’ and NOT DO THE THINGS WHICH I SAY? 47Whoever comes to Me, and hears My sayings and does them, I will show you whom he is like: 48He is like a man building a house, who dug deep and laid the foundation on the rock …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 6:46 – 48, NKJV)
Christ Centered Universalism Hope – Is it Real or a Misunderstanding of Scripture?
Source Post:
https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=10161007982342784&id=651792783
I am “not” sure 100% whether Eternal Hell is True or Christ Centered Universalism. However, the main reason I still consider this Christ Centered Universalism possibility is because of the Testimony in Sadhu Sundar Singh’s Writings as Evidenced in his Visions. Even the late Dr. DGS Dhinakaran (who is the No. 1 Christian with Gift of Healing to Prophecy to also having Visions of Heaven in the Eternal Hell Camp of Indian Christianity) clearly wrote in his Vision of Heaven book that “Sadhu Sundar Singh” was in “Heaven” proving that even Christ Centered Universalism believers are Saved and/or it could be True. The Proof of this and other Quotes are in links below:
1) Sadhu Sundar Singh – a Christian Universalist Confirmed in Heaven by Dr DGS Dhinakaran
https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=10159143902292784&id=651792783
*Dr DGS Dhinakaran calls Sadhu Sundar Singh as “the Great and Acclaimed Saint of India”.
2) Gospel Hope for the Dead?
https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=10159663526522784&id=651792783
3) Sadhu Sundar Singh – A Mysterious Christian
https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=10159525126097784&id=651792783
4) Sheepfold2 – Good Muslims?
https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=10158048955732784&id=651792783
5) Even the late Mr. Billy Graham the world famous evangelist affirmed some type of Universalism Hope in Christ where his organisation couldn’t deny it as it was recorded in video and so they implied that he is senile but the video shows him quite rational as discussed in link below:
https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=10159219503242784&id=651792783
6) UnSolved Mystery – All Men as ‘All Men’ or Figure of Speech for ‘Believers only’?
Let’s look at two Apostolic Father’s writings who were both direct disciples of Blessed Apostle St. John who also have “no” prayers to Virgin Mary/Saint or equivalent and so Protestants may consider them too:
https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=10160847757427784&id=651792783
Only God Knows as we will too when we Return to Him One Day. Scripture does not point to any of these possibilities as dangerous Doctrine. Christ Centered Universalism was only Condemned very late in Christian history (about 550 AD, Second Council of Constantinople) by a fully Mary-Idol creating and Saints Praying council. In contrast some of the earliest church fathers writings pointing to it who never had any Prayers to Virgin Mary or equivalent.
Simple thought: Is Dr. DGS Dhinakaran (affirming the Christian Universalist Sadhu Sundar Singh) and Mr. Billy Graham (claiming some relatively good non-Christian Christians to be Saved) going to Hell as their quotes respectively point so?
St. Augustine of Hippo himself affirms that we may contemplate such a possibility described above as “not Denying Holy Scripture” (and hence we are not heretics) even though he believed in Eternal Hell for the Wicked, to quote:
“… “There are very many in our day, who though not denying the Holy Scriptures, do not believe in endless torments. …” — St. Augustine of Hippo (354-430 A.D.)
Source: https://www.mercyuponall.org/tag/church-fathers/
That quote in full below where St. Augustine calls these “Christian Universalists” as “deceived” but “not” that “Universalism is a dangerous heresy which brings them to Hell or become unsaved” as he still calls them as “not denying Scripture and Saved”, to quote:
“…112. It is quite in vain, then, that some–indeed very many–yield to merely human feelings and deplore the notion of the eternal punishment of the damned and their interminable and perpetual misery. They do not believe that such things will be. Not that they would go counter to divine Scripture–but, yielding to their own human feelings, they soften what seems harsh and give a milder emphasis to statements they believe are meant more to terrify than to express the literal truth. “God will not forget,” they say, “to show mercy, nor in his anger will he shut up his mercy.” This is, in fact, the text of a holy psalm.237 But there is no doubt that it is to be interpreted to refer to those who are called “vessels of mercy,”238 those who are freed from misery not by their own merits but through God’s mercy. Even so, if they suppose that the text applies to all men, there is no ground for them further to suppose that there can be an end for those of whom it is said, “Thus these shall go into everlasting punishment.”239 Otherwise, it can as well be thought that there will also be an end to the happiness of those of whom the antithesis was said: “But the righteous into life eternal.” …” – Blessed St. Augustine of Hippo, Doctor of the Church, who influenced virtually all of subsequent Western philosophy and Catholic theology, as well as a significant amount of Protestant theology (c. 354 AD – c. 430 AD, Point 112 – CHAPTER XXIX. “The Last Things”, Enchiridion).
Source: http://www.tertullian.org/fathers/augustine_enchiridion_02_trans.htm
Another quote below where St. Augustine calls another group of OSAS (Once Saved Always Saved) type of “Christians” as “deceived” but “not” that it is a dangerous heresy which brings them to Hell or become unsaved” as he still calls them as “not denying Scripture and Saved”, to quote:
“…67. There are some, indeed, who believe that those who do not abandon the name of Christ, and who are baptized in his laver in the Church, who are not cut off from it by schism or heresy, who may then live in sins however great, not washing them away by repentance, nor redeeming them by alms–and who obstinately persevere in them to life’s last day–even these will still be saved, “though as by fire.” They believe that such people will be punished by fire, prolonged in proportion to their sins, but still not eternal. But those who believe thus, and still are Catholics, are deceived, as it seems to me, by a kind of merely human benevolence. For the divine Scripture, when consulted, answers differently. Moreover, I have written a book about this question, entitled Faith and Works,142 in which, with God’s help, I have shown as best I could that, according to Holy Scripture, the faith that saves is the faith that the apostle Paul adequately describes when he says, “For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision avails anything, nor uncircumcision, but the faith which works through love.”143 But if faith works evil and not good, then without doubt, according to the apostle James “it is dead in itself.”144 He then goes on to say, “If a man says he has faith, yet has not works, can his faith be enough to save him?”14 …” – Blessed St. Augustine of Hippo, Doctor of the Church, who influenced virtually all of subsequent Western philosophy and Catholic theology, as well as a significant amount of Protestant theology (c. 354 AD – c. 430 AD, Points 112 – 113, CHAPTER XVIII. 141 Faith and Works, Enchiridion).
Source: http://www.tertullian.org/fathers/augustine_enchiridion_02_trans.htm
or in the quote below, St. Augustine seems to contradict himself and consider this ‘semi-Universalism’ possibility:
“… Yet even in his wrath–his wrath resting on them–he does not “shut up his mercy.” This is not to put an end to their eternal afflictions, but rather to apply or interpose some little respite in their torments. … Now, if this wrath were all there is in man’s damnation, and even if it were present only in the slightest degree conceivable–still, to be lost out of the Kingdom of God, to be an exile from the City of God, to be estranged from the life of God, to suffer loss of the great abundance of God’s blessings which he has hidden for those who fear him and prepared for those who hope in him240 –this would be a punishment so great that, if it be eternal, no torments that we know could be compared to it, no matter how many ages they continued. …” – Blessed St. Augustine of Hippo, Doctor of the Church, who influenced virtually all of subsequent Western philosophy and Catholic theology, as well as a significant amount of Protestant theology (c. 354 AD – c. 430 AD, Points 112 – 113, CHAPTER XXIX. “The Last Things”, Enchiridion).
Source: http://www.tertullian.org/fathers/augustine_enchiridion_02_trans.htm
Why is St. Augustine’s opinion important? Because no single Christian after the time of the Apostles have influenced all branches of Christianity including both Roman Catholicism and Protestantism and the Greatest No.1 most influential Protestant Theologian, Blessed John Calvin himself wrote this about St. Augustine’s “opinions or writings”:
“… John Calvin wrote, “Augustine is so wholly within me, that if I wished to write a confession of my faith, I could do so with all fullness and satisfaction to myself out of his writings.“[3] “This is why one finds that every four pages written in the Institutes of the Christian Religion John Calvin quoted Augustine. Calvin, for this reason, would deem himself not a Calvinist, but an Augustinian. […] Christian Calvinist, should they be more likely deemed an Augustinian-Calvinist?”[4] Cary concurs, writing, “As a result, Calvinism in particular is sometimes referred to as Augustinianism.”[5]. The theology of Calvinism has been immortalized in the acronym TULIP, which states the five essential doctrines of Total depravity, Unconditional election, Limited atonement, Irresistible grace, and Perseverance of the saints. …”
Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Augustinian_Calvinism
Right now, we focus on Preaching His New Testament Commands ignoring which type of sugar coating preaching has a lot of actual New Testament Bible Verses condemning it though they say it’s a small thing.
I didn’t just read the se Quotes on the internet but bought each of these books and more to consider this possibility.
Peace to you
Christ Healed and Did Good for Free
Verses:
“… 4But one of His disciples, Judas Iscariot, Simon’s son, who would betray Him, said, 5“Why was this fragrant oil not sold for [b]three hundred denarii and given to the poor?” 6This he said, not that he cared for the poor, but because he was a thief, and had the money box; and he used to take what was put in it. …” (John 12:6, NKJV)
Comment: Notice that Christ had a “Money Bag” for the “Poor” and only “Judas” (symbolizing a betrayal type of Christianity) took from it at will.
How can Prosperity Gospel justify itself whenever it took more than the need for Luxury/Prosperity and also did NOT give that money to the “Poor” as implied by these Verses in CHRIST’S OWN MINISTRY itself?
Are we following Christ in this? In short, these Verses clearly tell us that after taking their “needs only”, the “money bag collection of Christ and His Apostles” went toward the “Poor”. Can you see it as it is Written here so clearly please?
The Bible Verse above implies this Gospel Rule for “Money Collected in His Name so clearly above” except that Judas was pretending to care for the poor of which the sign of such fake Christianity is that they “take at will like Judas” from it “beyond needs + prosperity + luxury+ equivalent at will”.
The Principle about Following Christ is to “Do Good Works” be it “Healing” (Gifts) or in other things be it Helping the Poor etc, Verse:
“… how God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and with power, who went about DOING GOOD and HEALING all who were oppressed by the devil, for God was with Him. …” (Acts 10:38, NKJV)
Well, it is CHRIST HIMSELF who COMMANDED the CHARITY DOCTRINE as the Primary for SEEKING HIS KINGDOM in Verses below:
“… 31“But SEEK HIS KINGDOM, and THESE THINGS will be ADDED TO YOU. 32“Do not be afraid, little flock, for your Father has chosen gladly to give you the kingdom. 33“SELL YOUR POSSESSIONS and GIVE TO CHARITY; make yourselves money belts which do not wear out, an unfailing treasure in heaven, where no thief comes near nor moth destroys. 34“For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. 35“Be dressed in readiness, and KEEP YOUR LAMPS LIT. 36You are also to be like people who are waiting for their master when he RETURNS FROM THE WEDDING FEAST, so that they may immediately open the door for him when he comes and knocks. 37Blessed are those slaves whom the master will find on the alert when he comes; truly I say to you, that he will [z]prepare himself to serve, and have them recline at the table, and he will come up and serve them. 38Whether he COMES IN THE [AA]SECOND WATCH, or EVEN IN THE [AB]THIRD, and finds them so, blessed are those slaves. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 12:31 – 38, NASB)
Christ’s Own Words Warn the possibility of some rich Christians to be “unsaved” or the “loss of reward” to mean not getting a “Heavens level of Reward” in Verses below:
“… 9“And I say to you, MAKE FRIENDS FOR YOURSELVES by UNRIGHTEOUS [D]MAMMON, that when [e]you fail, they may receive you into an EVERLASTING HOME. 10He who is faithful in what is least is faithful also in much; and he who is unjust in what is least is unjust also in much. 11Therefore IF YOU HAVE NOT BEEN FAITHFUL IN THE UNRIGHTEOUS MAMMON, WHO WILL COMMIT TO YOUR TRUST THE TRUE RICHES? 12And if you have not been faithful in what is another man’s, who will give you what is your own? 13“No servant can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, or else he will be loyal to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and mammon.” …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 16:9 – 13, NKJV)
In another translation:
“… 9Here’s the lesson: USE YOUR WORLDLY RESOURCES to BENEFIT OTHERS AND MAKE FRIENDS. Then, when your possessions are gone, they will welcome you to an ETERNAL HOME. 10“If you are faithful in little things, you will be faithful in large ones. But if you are dishonest in little things, you won’t be honest with greater responsibilities. 11And IF YOU ARE UNTRUSTWORTHY ABOUT WORLDLY WEALTH, who will trust you with the TRUE RICHES OF HEAVEN? 12And if you are not faithful with other people’s things, why should you be trusted with things of your own? …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 16:9 – 12, NLT)
That’s why Christ Warned Clearly that following Him and entering Heaven type of Salvation is Hard for a Rich Man:
“… 21Jesus said to him, “IF you want to be PERFECT, go, SELL what YOU HAVE and GIVE to the POOR, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, FOLLOW ME.” 22But when the young man heard that saying, he went away SORROWFUL, for he had GREAT POSSESSIONS.23Then Jesus said to His disciples, “Assuredly, I say to you that it is HARD for a RICH MAN TO ENTER THE KINGDOM OF HEAVEN. 24And AGAIN I say to you, it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God. …” (Matthew 19:21 – 24, NKJV)
So why take the Risk?
Peace to you
Last Pastors of God’s Heart Mystery via Prophet Jeremiah
“… I will take you, one from a city and two from a family, and I will bring you to Zion. 15And I will give you shepherds according to My heart, who will feed you with knowledge and understanding …” (Jeremiah 3:14 – 15, NKJV)
Comment: The rest still could be “Pastors of God” but to be a “Pastor of God’s Heart”, we need to Preach the “same” as Prophet Jeremiah. Maybe the phrase in Verses above regarding “… one from a city and two from a family, and I will bring you to Zion. …” shows the rarity of among the believers who will Preach and Believe the “same” message as Prophet Jeremiah. Maybe God is Speaking about the “Hundredfold” type of Rarest Faith here (e.g. Matthew 19:29 agrees).
To understand which “Pastor” Prophet Jeremiah is referring to, such a Pastor must “Preach the same knowledge and understanding” as Prophet Jeremiah which is in Context as follows:
- Prophet Jeremiah never taught about Hell, Prosperity , Flat Earth vs Spherical Earth debate nor about earthly pleasures as blessing of God.
- Prophet Jeremiah taught no need to use the phrase “… God told me …”.
- Prophet Jeremiah taught that the Charity Doctrine = “Knowing God”
The above with “Bible Verses” from “Jeremiah only”:
- Prophet Jeremiah never taught about Hell, Prosperity , Flat Earth vs Spherical Earth debate nor about earthly pleasures as blessing of God.
Context: I am not saying that Hell doesn’t exist but rather that knowing about it is not going to save someone but rather that they repent to avoid it by turning to the LORD. So, it’s more important to teach the SAME ACTIONS of REPENTANCE that Prophet Jeremiah Taught to PREACH the SAME KNOWLEDGE and WISDOM a PASTOR is told to preach in these Verses which apply also in the New Testament now such as the CHARITY DOCTRINE. The Cancelled or Fulfilled all Testament Laws need not be Preached for observance but for example only. Can you see it please?
In short we cannot quote these Verses and use it for a Topic which Prophet Jeremiah himself never Preached in these WRITTEN VERSES in the Bible. That’s out of context and is a speculation.
- Prophet Jeremiah taught no need to use the phrase “… God told me …”.:
“… 34“And as for THE PROPHET AND THE PRIEST and THE PEOPLE who say, ‘THE [J]ORACLE OF THE LORD!’ I WILL EVEN PUNISH THAT MAN and HIS HOUSE. 35Thus every one of you shall say to his neighbor, and every one to his brother, ‘What has the Lord answered?’ and, ‘What has the Lord spoken?’ 36And the [k]ORACLE OF THE LORD YOU SHALL MENTION NO MORE. For EVERY MAN’S WORD WILL BE HIS ORACLE, for you have perverted the words of the living God, the Lord of hosts, our God. 37Thus you shall say to the prophet, ‘What has the Lord answered you?’ and, ‘What has the Lord spoken?’ 38But since you say, ‘The [l]oracle of the Lord!’ therefore thus says the Lord: ‘Because you say this word, “The oracle of the Lord!” and I have sent to you, saying, “Do not say, ‘The oracle of the Lord!’ ” 39therefore behold, I, even I, WILL UTTERLY FORGET YOU and FORSAKE YOU, and the city that I gave you and your fathers, and will cast you out of My presence. 40And I WILL BRING AN EVERLASTING REPROACH UPON YOU, AND A PERPETUAL SHAME, which SHALL NOT BE FORGOTTEN.’ ” …” (Jeremiah 23:34 – 40, NKJV)
Comment: God’s Principles does “not” Change. You can clearly see the “Hard Judgment” awaiting those who claim “… God told me …” Or equivalent (e.g. “… Oracle of the LORD …”) unless that person really heard from God 100%.
As for me I neither endorse them nor judge them and prefer the “Safe Route Scripturally” which is Commanded by God here as “… 36And the [k]ORACLE OF THE LORD YOU SHALL MENTION NO MORE. For EVERY MAN’S WORD WILL BE HIS ORACLE, …” (Jeremiah 23:36).
This verse allows us to express “out opinions” where since if we don’t claim “… God told me …”, God Seems to be “Lenient” and vice versa. Can you see it please as “it is Written”? (God may give room for error if we are wrong provided we do “not” take His Holy Name in Vain by claiming “… God told me …” In such cases).
I am “not” against Prophecy but please be careful of who you call Prophet and endorse because if they are wrong, these Verses do “not” seem to point lightly as the Principle of “Everlasting Reproach” or “Perpetual Shame” does not sound simple to me.
- Prophet Jeremiah taught that the Charity Doctrine = “Knowing God”
“… 15“Do you become a king because you are competing in cedar? Did your father not eat and drink And DO JUSTICE AND RIGHTEOUSNESS? Then it was well for him. 16“HE PLED THE CAUSE OF THE AFFLICTED and THE POOR, then it was well. IS THAT NOT WHAT IT MEANS TO KNOW ME?” DECLARES THE LORD. 17“But your eyes and your heart Are intent only upon your own dishonest gain, And on shedding innocent blood, And on practicing oppression and extortion.” … And YOU WILL SEEK ME AND FIND ME when YOU SEARCH FOR ME WITH ALL YOUR HEART. …” (Jeremiah 22:15 – 17, 29:13, NASB)
Charity Doctrine part in Verses above: “… DO JUSTICE AND RIGHTEOUSNESS? Then it was well for him. 16“HE PLED THE CAUSE OF THE AFFLICTED and THE POOR, …” equals to KNOWING GOD as the Verse immediately continues: “… then it was well. IS THAT NOT WHAT IT MEANS TO KNOW ME?” DECLARES THE LORD. …”
Charity Doctrine is not just with Material Things but also Spiritual Things. So selling Spiritual Things at a high price and merchandising the Gospel for Prosperity beyond “needs etc.” with God’s Money can be Really Dangerous as being the OPPOSITE to KNOWING HIM in Principle of these Bible Verses itself.
The Best is to do it like this as even Apostle St. Paul didn’t have any urgency to leave a secular job as a tentmaker to do Gospel Work (meaning those who claim it must do more than him in relative measure, right? as God has no partiality), Verses:
“… 14Even so the LORD HAS COMMANDED that those who preach the gospel should LIVE FROM THE GOSPEL. 15But I have used none of these things, nor have I written these things that it should be done so to me; … 18What is MY REWARD then? That when I preach the gospel, I may present the GOSPEL OF CHRIST WITHOUT CHARGE, that I may not abuse my authority in the gospel. …” (1 Corinthians 9:14 – 15, 18, NKJV)
Please don’t misunderstand me.
I am totally “not” fond of Christianity which merchandises the Gospel at high prices because His things are Priceless and thus must be free (as His Command in Matthew 10:8). However God in His Mercy allows Gospel things to be sold if they’re used for ministry + a “Living” (“needs” only not prosperity) for money Collected in His Name as He Said in Verses above (where the Perfect Way is still working a secular job if one can to increase one’s “reward” [please notice this word carefully above] as God Counts in Relative Measure to be Fair to all).
Can you see it as it is Written please?
Conclusion
“… ‘I will not cause My anger to fall on you.
For I am merciful,’ says the Lord;
‘I will not remain angry forever.
13Only acknowledge your iniquity,
That you have transgressed against the Lord your God, And have scattered your [b]charms
To alien deities under every green tree,
And you have not obeyed My voice,’ says the Lord.
14“Return, O backsliding children,” says the Lord; “for I am married to you. I will take you, one from a city and two from a family, and I will bring you to Zion. 15And I will give you shepherds [Pastors] according to My heart, who will feed you with knowledge and understanding …” (Jeremiah 3:12 – 15, NKJV)
Until a Pastor Preaches the Same Doctrine and Prophet Jeremiah which includes these Verses and more, he may hardly be the Pastor referred to in these Verses as it is Written. Can you see it please?
I repeat, the rest still could be “Pastors of God” but to be a “pastor of God’s Heart”, we need to Preach the “same” as Prophet Jeremiah.
Someone Said: ‘… Charity Doctrine was at the Heart of every Missionary Work of Christ …’.
Peace to you
Poor in Spirit = Trembles at God’s Word and so Inherit the Heavens as their Reward
Verses (Where the Context here is God is “not” interested in who can build a Church/Temple for Him but rather He Wants those who can TREMBLE AT HIS WORD = OBEY HIS COMMANDMENTS):
“… 1Thus says the Lord:
“Heaven is My throne,
And earth is My footstool.
Where is the house that you will build Me?
And where is the place of My rest?
2For all those things My hand has made,
And all those things exist,”
Says the Lord.
“But ON THIS ONE WILL I LOOK:
ON HIM WHO IS POOR and of a CONTRITE SPIRIT,
And WHO TREMBLES AT MY WORD. …” (Isaiah 66:1 – 2, NKJV)
New Testament links:
“… ON HIM WHO IS POOR and of a CONTRITE SPIRIT …” (Isaiah 66:2, NKJV)= “… Blessed are the poor in spirit, For theirs is the kingdom of heaven. …” (Matthew 5:3, NKJV)
“… And WHO TREMBLES AT MY WORD. …”(Isaiah 66:2, NKJV) = Do we Tremble at His New Testament Commands likewise be it the Charity Doctrine Commands (Luke 11:41, Luke 12:30 – 34, Luke 16:9 – 11, Matthew 19:25 – 29) against Lawlessness Commands (Matthew 7:20 – 24) to His Holiness Commands (Matthew 19:20 – 24) and even His Personal Conduct and Church Order Commands (e.g. 1 Corinthians 11 to 14, 1 Corinthians 14:37, 2 Peter 3:2)?
The Safe Route Scripturally is to “don’t go beyond what is Written” which is also the Way “PRAISED” by New Testament Scripture which can apply in this Context of “Trembling at His Word”, example Verses:
“… that you may learn in us NOT TO THINK BEYOND WHAT IS WRITTEN, that none of you may be [c]puffed up on behalf of one against the other. … 14I do not write these things to shame you, but as my beloved children I warn you. 15For though you might have ten thousand instructors in Christ, yet you do not have many fathers; for in Christ Jesus I have begotten you through the gospel. 16Therefore I URGE YOU, IMITATE ME. 17For this reason I have sent Timothy to you, who is my beloved and faithful son in the Lord, who will remind you of my ways in Christ, as I TEACH EVERYWHERE IN EVERY CHURCH. …” (1 Corinthians 4:4, 14 – 17, NKJV)
“… 15Therefore, brethren, STAND FAST AND HOLD THE TRADITIONS which you were taught, whether BY WORD OR OUR [H]EPISTLE. 16Now may our Lord Jesus Christ Himself, and our God and Father, who has loved us and given us everlasting consolation and good hope by grace, 17comfort your hearts and [i]establish you in EVERY GOOD WORD AND WORK. …” (2 Thessalonians 2:15 – 17, NKJV)
“… that you may be mindful of the words which were spoken before by the holy prophets, and of the COMMANDMENT of us, the APOSTLES OF THE LORD and SAVIOR, …” (2 Peter 3:2, NKJV)
“… 13HOLD FAST The PATTERN OF SOUND WORDS which you have heard from me, in faith and love which are in Christ Jesus. 14That good thing which was committed to you, KEEP BY THE HOLY SPIRIT who dwells in us. …” (2 Timothy 1:13 – 14, NKJV)
“… 5And also if anyone competes in athletics, he is NOT CROWNED unless he COMPETES ACCORDING to THE RULES. … 14REMIND them of THESE THINGS, charging them before the Lord not to [d]strive about words to no profit, to the RUIN OF THE HEARERS. … ” (2 Timothy 2:5, 14, NKJV)
“… 1 IMITATE ME, just as I also IMITATE CHRIST. 2Now I PRAISE YOU, brethren, that you remember me in all things and KEEP THE TRADITIONS just as I delivered them to you. … 16But if anyone seems to be contentious, we have no such custom, nor do the churches of God. … ” (1 Corinthians 11:1 – 2, 11:16, NKJV)
The Septuagint reads the same:
“… 1Thus saith the Lord, Heaven is my throne, and the earth is my footstool: what kind of a house will ye build me? and of what kind is to be the place of my rest? 2For all these things are mine, saith the Lord: and TO WHOM WILL I HAVE RESPECT, but TO THE HUMBLE AND MEEK, and THE MAN THAT TREMBLES AT MY WORDS? …” (Isaiah 66:1 – 2, LXX, Brenton Septuagint Translation)
Source: https://biblehub.com/sep/isaiah/66.htm
Peace to you
Mystery of the Sheep of Christ – Signified by its Obedience to His New Testament Commands
“… My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and THEY FOLLOW ME. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (John 10:27, NKJV)
The “FOLLOW ME” part = His New Testament Commands.
How does the “PERFECT FOLLOW ME” in Christ’s Definition look like? It’s Described by Christ Himself as follows:
“… 21JESUS SAID TO HIM, “IF you want to be PERFECT, go, SELL what YOU HAVE and GIVE to the POOR, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, FOLLOW ME.” 22But when the young man heard that saying, he went away SORROWFUL, for he had GREAT POSSESSIONS.23Then Jesus said to His disciples, “Assuredly, I say to you that it is HARD for a RICH MAN TO ENTER THE KINGDOM OF HEAVEN. 24And AGAIN I say to you, it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God. …” (Matthew 19:21 – 24, NKJV
Example COMMANDS from CHRIST HIMSELF:
1) Forgiveness Commands
“… 21Then Peter came to Him and said, “Lord, how often shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? Up to seven times?” 22Jesus said to him, “I do not say to you, up to seven times, but up to seventy times seven. … 33Should you not also have had COMPASSION on your fellow servant, JUST AS I HAD PITY ON YOU?’ 34And his master was angry, and delivered him to the torturers until he should pay all that was due to him. 35“So My heavenly Father also will do to you if each of you, from his heart, does not forgive his brother [g]his trespasses.” …” (Matthew 18:21 – 22, 33 – 35, NKJV)
2) Church Order Commands
“… If anyone thinks himself to be a prophet or spiritual, let him acknowledge that the things which I WRITE to you are the COMMANDMENTS OF THE LORD. …” (1 Corinthians 14:37, NKJV)
3) Contentment Command
“… 6Now GODLINESS WITH CONTENTMENT IS GREAT GAIN. 7For we brought nothing into this world, [d]and it is certain we can carry nothing out. 8And HAVING FOOD AND CLOTHING, WITH THESE WE SHALL BE CONTENT. 9But those who DESIRE TO BE RICH FALL into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and harmful lusts which drown men in destruction and perdition. …” (1 Timothy 6:6 – 9, NKJV)
4) Merciful Conduct Commands
“… 24BLIND GUIDES, who STRAIN OUT A GNAT and SWALLOW A CAMEL! 25“Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you cleanse the outside of the cup and dish, but inside they are full of extortion and [l]self-indulgence. 26Blind Pharisee, first cleanse the inside of the cup and dish, that the outside of them may be clean also. …” (Matthew 23:24 – 26, NKJV)
How?
“… who STRAIN OUT A GNAT …” = In principle, forcing others to live out a high level achievement or difficult work on others or equivalent
“… and SWALLOW A CAMEL! …” = In principle, very easy on themselves where they themselves never achieved the things which they force others to do in this context.
5) Charity Doctrine Commands
“… 31“But SEEK HIS KINGDOM, and THESE THINGS will be ADDED TO YOU. 32“Do not be afraid, little flock, for your Father has chosen gladly to give you the kingdom. 33“SELL YOUR POSSESSIONS and GIVE TO CHARITY; make yourselves money belts which do not wear out, an unfailing treasure in heaven, where no thief comes near nor moth destroys. 34“For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. 35“Be dressed in readiness, and KEEP YOUR LAMPS LIT. 36You are also to be like people who are waiting for their master when he RETURNS FROM THE WEDDING FEAST, so that they may immediately open the door for him when he comes and knocks. 37Blessed are those slaves whom the master will find on the alert when he comes; truly I say to you, that he will [z]prepare himself to serve, and have them recline at the table, and he will come up and serve them. 38Whether he COMES IN THE [AA]SECOND WATCH, or EVEN IN THE [AB]THIRD, and finds them so, blessed are those slaves. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 12:31 – 38, NASB)
“… 13But when you give a feast, INVITE the POOR, THE MAIMED, THE LAME, THE BLIND. 14And you will be BLESSED, because they cannot repay you; for you shall be REPAID at the RESURRECTION OF THE JUST.” …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 14:13 – 14, NKJV).
6) Personal Finance Commands to use it to Help Others
“… 9Here’s the lesson: USE YOUR WORLDLY RESOURCES to BENEFIT OTHERS AND MAKE FRIENDS. Then, when your possessions are gone, they will welcome you to an ETERNAL HOME. 10“If you are faithful in little things, you will be faithful in large ones. But if you are dishonest in little things, you won’t be honest with greater responsibilities. 11And IF YOU ARE UNTRUSTWORTHY ABOUT WORLDLY WEALTH, who will trust you with the TRUE RICHES OF HEAVEN? 12And if you are not faithful with other people’s things, why should you be trusted with things of your own? …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 16:9 – 12, NLT)
“… So then, none of you can be My disciple who does not give up all his own possessions. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 14:33, NASB)
Or in another translation:
“… So likewise, whoever of you does not forsake all that he has cannot be My disciple …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 14:33, NKJV)
7) Charity Doctrine for Inner and Outer Sanctification Command
“… 39Then the Lord said to him, “Now you Pharisees make the OUTSIDE OF THE CUP and DISH CLEAN, but YOUR INWARD PART is full of [k]GREED and WICKEDNESS. 40FOOLISH ones! Did not He who made the outside make the inside also? 41But rather GIVE ALMS of [l]SUCH THINGS AS YOU HAVE; then indeed ALL THINGS ARE CLEAN TO YOU. 42“But woe to you Pharisees! For you tithe mint and rue and all manner of herbs, and pass by JUSTICE and the LOVE of GOD These you ought to have done, without leaving the others undone. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 11:39 – 45, NKJV)
Conclusion
“… 18And Jesus came and spoke to them, saying, “All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. 19Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20TEACHING THEM TO OBSERVE ALL THINGS THAT I HAVE COMMANDED YOU; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” Amen. …” (Matthew 28:18 – 20, NKJV)
“… 46“But WHY DO YOU CALL ME ‘LORD, LORD,’ and NOT DO THE THINGS WHICH I SAY? 47Whoever comes to Me, and hears My sayings and does them, I will show you whom he is like: 48He is like a man building a house, who dug deep and laid the foundation on the rock …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 6:46 – 48, NKJV)
“… 14Because narrow is the gate and difficult is the way which leads to life, and there are few who find it. … 21“Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who DOES THE WILL OF MY FATHER in heaven. 22MANY will say to Me in that day, ‘Lord, Lord, have we NOT PROPHESIED in Your name, CAST OUT DEMONS in Your name, and DONE MANY WONDERS in Your name?’ 23And then I will declare to them, ‘I never knew you; depart from Me, YOU WHO PRACTICE LAWLESSNESS!’. 24“Therefore WHOEVER HEARS THESE SAYINGS OF MINE, and DOES THEM, I will liken him to a WISE MAN who BUILT HIS HOUSE ON THE ROCK: …” – Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 7:14, 21 – 23, 24, NKJV)
“… just as Christ also loved the church and gave Himself for her, 26that He MIGHT [G]SANCTIFY and CLEANSE HER WITH THE WASHING OF WATER by THE WORD, 27that He might present her to Himself a glorious church, not having spot or wrinkle or any such thing, but that she should be holy and without blemish. …” (Ephesians 5:25 – 27, NKJV)
“… BLESSED are those who DO HIS COMMANDMENTS, that they may have the RIGHT TO THE TREE OF LIFE, and may ENTER THROUGH THE GATES INTO THE CITY. …” (Revelation 22:14, NKJV)
The Greatest Gift of All which we get by Obeying more of His Commands especially His Greatest Commands is this: We live in Fellowship of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit as follows:
“… 23JESUS ANSWERED and said to him, “If anyone loves Me, he will KEEP MY WORD; and MY FATHER WILL LOVE HIM, and WE WILL COME TO HIM and MAKE OUR HOME WITH HIM. 24He who does not love Me does not keep My words; and the word which you hear is not Mine but the Father’s who sent Me. … 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 THINGS THAT I SAID TO YOU. …” (John 14:23 24, 26, NKJV)
“… 13HOLD FAST The PATTERN OF SOUND WORDS which you have heard from me, in faith and love which are in Christ Jesus. 14That good thing which was committed to you, KEEP BY THE HOLY SPIRIT who dwells in us. …” (2 Timothy 1:13 – 14, NKJV)
May God Help us.
Example of Context: Do the Charity Doctrine Commands apply in the New Testament? Yes as almost all these Verses quoted here are by CHRIST HIMSELF (did you notice this?) and it’s most clear in the Judgment Day Verses below:
“… 31“When the Son of Man comes in His glory, and all the [c]holy angels with Him, then He will sit on the throne of His glory. 32All the nations will be gathered before Him, and He will separate them one from another, as a shepherd divides his sheep from the goats. 33And He will set the sheep on His right hand, but the goats on the left. 34Then the King will say to those on His right hand, ‘Come, you blessed of My Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world: 35for I was hungry and you gave Me food; I was thirsty and you gave Me drink; I was a stranger and you took Me in; 36I was naked and you clothed Me; I was sick and you visited Me; I was in prison and you came to Me.’ 37“Then the righteous will answer Him, saying, ‘Lord, when did we see You hungry and feed You, or thirsty and give You drink? 38When did we see You a stranger and take You in, or naked and clothe You? 39Or when did we see You sick, or in prison, and come to You?’ 40And the King will answer and say to them, ‘Assuredly, I say to you, inasmuch as you did it to one of the least of these My brethren, you did it to Me.’ 41“Then He will also say to those on the left hand, ‘Depart from Me, you cursed, into the everlasting fire prepared for the devil and his angels: 42for I was hungry and you gave Me no food; I was thirsty and you gave Me no drink; 43I was a stranger and you did not take Me in, naked and you did not clothe Me, sick and in prison and you did not visit Me.’ 44“Then they also will answer [d]Him, saying, ‘Lord, when DID WE SEE YOU HUNGRY or THIRSTY OR A STRANGER OR NAKED OR SICK or in PRISON, and did not minister to You?’ 45Then He will answer them, saying, ‘Assuredly, I say to you, inasmuch as YOU DID NOT DO IT to one of the least of these, you DID NOT DO IT TO ME.’ 46And THESE WILL GO AWAY INTO EVERLASTING PUNISHMENT, but the righteous into eternal life.” …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 25:31 – 46, NKJV)
The CHARITY DOCTRINE COMMAND becomes “PERFECT” when it’s done not just toward our family, friends, local church, within the same denomination, toward the same race etc. only which are good starters but eventually it’s Perfect if it reaches even toward our “enemies and those who use us and hate us too” as CHRIST HIMSELF COMMANDS toward THOSE SHEEP WHO WILL LISTEN to HIS VOICE in Verses below:
“… 27“But I SAY TO YOU WHO HEAR: LOVE YOUR ENEMIES, DO GOOD to those who hate you, 28bless those who curse you, and pray for those PRAY FOR THOSE WHO SPITEFULLY USE YOU. 29To him who strikes you on the one cheek, offer the other also. And from him who takes away your cloak, do not withhold your tunic either. 30GIVE to everyone who asks of you. And from him who takes away your goods DO NOT ASK THEM BACK. 31And just as you want men to do to you, you also do to them likewise. 32“But if you love those who love you, what credit is that to you? For even sinners love those who love them. 33And if you do good to those who do good to you, what credit is that to you? For even sinners do the same. 34And if YOU LEND to those from whom you HOPE TO RECEIVE BACK, what credit is that to you? For even sinners lend to sinners to receive as much back. 35But LOVE YOUR ENEMIES, DO GOOD, AND LEND, [h]HOPING FOR NOTHING IN RETURN; and YOUR REWARD WILL BE GREAT, and YOU WILL BE SONS OF THE MOST HIGH. For He is kind to the unthankful and evil. 36Therefore be merciful, just as your Father also is merciful. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 6:27 – 36, NKJV)
Yes, The Verses above by Christ Himself is Full of the CHARITY DOCTRINE COMMANDS such as GIVE, SHARE, LEND MONEY even toward OUR ENEMIES toward “those who will hear” as Christ Remarks beautifully as ‘fake Christians will be unable to hear this and will do the opposite and persecute their enemies either literally, economically or in other ways to preserve their way of life instead of obeying His Command in this’ (can you see it Written on the first line above itself?).
Peace to you
Hell and Charity Doctrine link Mystery – Moses and the Prophets
Source Post (please click on link for an easier reading):
https://www.facebook.com/651792783/posts/10161000056007784/
Question
Counting the cost” was a general non-specific reference that applies to just about anything one might be considering. You still haven’t answered the simple question: What are the afterlife consequences for those who rejected the truth and followed evil, if they do not repent before death?
Reply
1) Counting the Cost to Follow Christ
When Teaching Counting the Cost, Christ Taught about the Charity Doctrine (Luke 14). Are you teaching likewise too? Verses:
Yes, few Christians Realize that when Luke 14:33 was Spoken by Christ, He was Speaking the same Context of His ‘Charity Doctrine’ Discourses where He even mentions the ‘Special Mercy to the Poor/Maimed/Blind’ part some ‘Parabolically’ (e.g. the omitted Luke 14:26 – 30 which is the Parable explanation of this same truth, but parabolically regarding Counting the Cost to live out His Commands including this ‘Charity Doctrine Lifestyle’) as per Consecutive Verses below:
“… (12Then He also said to him who invited Him,) “When you give a dinner or a supper, do not ask your friends, your brothers, your relatives, NOR RICH NEIGHBORS, lest they also invite you back, and you be repaid. 13But when you give a feast, INVITE the POOR, THE MAIMED, THE LAME, THE BLIND. 14And you will be BLESSED, because they cannot repay you; for you shall be REPAID at the [First]* RESURRECTION OF THE JUST.” … 21So that servant came and reported these things to his master. Then the master of the house, being angry, said to his servant, ‘Go out quickly into the STREETS and LANES of the city, and bring in here the POOR and the MAIMED and the LAME and the BLIND.’ 22And the servant said, ‘Master, it is done as you commanded, and still THERE IS ROOM.’ 23Then the master said to the servant, ‘Go out into the HIGHWAYS and HEDGES, and COMPEL THEM to COME IN, that MY HOUSE MAY BE FILLED. 24For I say to you that NONE of those men who were INVITED shall taste MY SUPPER.’ ” … … So LIKEWISE, whoever of you does not forsake all that he has CANNOT BE MY DISCIPLE. …” (Luke 14:12 – 14, 21 – 24, 33, NKJV)
2) Consequence of Hell
The consequence is Hell if they don’t repent but Luke 16 makes it clear that a person is not saved or Unsaved due to believing in Hell (as most likely even Lazarus may not have known of the existence of Hell) but someone is saved based on whether they Practiced the “Charity Doctrine” or if they are the “neglected poor” (like Lazarus), such may get special Mercy as Luke 14’s Parable of the Wedding Feast also hints. Let God Decide.
Verses for these claims:
3) Hell for those who didn’t Practice the Charity Doctrine Lifestyle
“… 19“There was a certain rich man who was clothed in purple and fine linen and [h]fared sumptuously every day. … The rich man also died and was buried. 23And being in torments in Hades, he lifted up his eyes and saw Abraham afar off, and Lazarus in his bosom. 24“Then he cried and said, ‘Father Abraham, have mercy on me, and send Lazarus that he may dip the tip of his finger in water and cool my tongue; for I am tormented in this flame.’ 25But Abraham said, ‘Son, remember that in your lifetime you received your good things, and likewise Lazarus evil things; but now he is comforted and you are tormented. 26And besides all this, between us and you there is a great gulf fixed, so that those who want to pass from here to you cannot, nor can those from there pass to us.’ …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 16:19 – 31, NKJV)
4) Possible Salvation toward the “Poor” by “Relative Measure” who are discriminated by this World and not shown Mercy
“… 20But there was a certain beggar named Lazarus, full of sores, who was laid at his gate, 21desiring to be fed with [i]the crumbs which fell from the rich man’s table. Moreover the dogs came and licked his sores. 22So it was that the beggar died, and was carried by the angels to Abraham’s bosom. The rich man also died and was buried. 23And being in torments in Hades, he lifted up his eyes and saw Abraham afar off, and Lazarus in his bosom. 24“Then he cried and said, ‘Father Abraham, have mercy on me, and send Lazarus that he may dip the tip of his finger in water and cool my tongue; for I am tormented in this flame.’ 25But Abraham said, ‘Son, remember that in your lifetime you received your good things, and likewise Lazarus evil things; but now he is comforted and you are tormented. 26And besides all this, between us and you there is a great gulf fixed, so that those who want to pass from here to you cannot, nor can those from there pass to us.’ …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 16:19 – 31, NKJV)
“… 21So that servant came and reported these things to his master. Then the master of the house, being angry, said to his servant, ‘Go out quickly into the STREETS and LANES of the city, and bring in here the POOR and the MAIMED and the LAME and the BLIND.’ … 24For I say to you that NONE of those men who were INVITED shall taste MY SUPPER.’ ” … … So LIKEWISE, whoever of you does not forsake all that he has CANNOT BE MY DISCIPLE. …” (Luke 14:12 – 14, 21, 24, 33, NKJV)
5) Special Mercy to the Poor in the Famous Messianic Prophecy of Psalm 22
This ‘Special Mercy on the Poor’ is clearly Hinted Mysteriously as Part of the Messianic Prophecy regarding Christ as follows:
“… 1My God, My God, why have You forsaken Me? Why are You so far from helping Me, … 16For dogs have surrounded Me; The congregation of the wicked has enclosed Me. They[f] pierced My hands and My feet; 17I can count all My bones. They look and stare at Me. 18They divide My garments among them, And for My clothing they cast lots. … 21Save Me from the lion’s mouth And from the horns of the wild oxen! You have answered Me. … 26THE POOR SHALL EAT and BE SATISFIED; Those who seek Him will praise the Lord. Let your heart live forever! 27All the ends of the world Shall remember and turn to the Lord, And all the families of the [i]nations Shall worship before [j]You. …”(Psalm 22:1, 16 – 18, 21, 26 – 27, NKJV)
Special Mercy on the Poor part (as this Messianic Prophecy has many other aspects/mysteries too): “… 26THE POOR SHALL EAT and BE SATISFIED; …” (Psalm 22:26, NKJV) which is the same Context of the Messianic Feast of the First Resurrection (Revelation 20:4 – 6) when Christ “Begins to Reign” (Revelation 11:17, NASB, NIV) for a 1000 years literally on Earth when He has Returned as Prophet Isaiah describes this Feast too as follows:
“… 6And in this mountain The Lord of hosts will make for all people A feast of [c]choice pieces, A feast of [d]wines on the lees, Of fat things full of marrow, Of well-refined wines on the lees. 7And He will destroy on this mountain The surface of the covering cast over all people, And the veil that is spread over all nations. 8He will swallow up death forever, And the Lord God will wipe away tears from all faces; …” (Isaiah 25:6 – 8, NKJV)
6) Idol concepts of God do not focus on Helping the Poor and Needy
In this Context of Helping the “POOR and NEEDY” with their “needs” freely (example of being ‘thirsty & in need of water’ being presented), the GOD of ISRAEL Says that He Will Give them that Signifying it with the LATTER END PROPHECIES (of His Messianic Kingdom of the First Resurrection and beyond, Context here) and contrasts that the “false idols” (including false concepts against the True God of Israel) will ‘not’ bother or focus on fulfilling these needs of the POOR and NEEDY freely, Verses:
“… 17“The POOR and NEEDY SEEK WATER, but there is none,
Their tongues fail for THIRST.
I, THE LORD, WILL HEAR THEM;
I, the GOD OF ISRAEL, WILL NOT FOSRSAKE THEM.
18I will open rivers in desolate heights,
And fountains in the midst of the valleys;
I will make the wilderness a pool of water,
And the dry land springs of water.
19I will plant in the wilderness the cedar and the acacia tree,
The myrtle and the oil tree;
I will set in the desert the cypress tree and the pine
And the box tree together,
20That they may see and know,
And consider and understand together,
That the hand of the Lord has done this,
And the Holy One of Israel has created it.
21“Present your case,” says the Lord.
“Bring forth your strong reasons,” says the King of Jacob.
22“Let them bring forth and show us what will happen;
Let them show the former things, what they were,
That we may [f]consider them,
And KNOW THE LATTER END OF THEM;
Or declare to us THINGS TO COME …” (Isaiah 41:17 – 22, NKJV)
Note: Please notice carefully that God Contrasts Himself against “idols” in this Chapter and interestingly calls Himself the “God of Israel” in the “Context” of “HELPING the POOR and NEEDY” and so the opposite ‘idol concepts of God’ would ignore this aspect and true concepts/doctrine about God will do this. Can you see it please as it is Prophesied by God Himself toward the “LATTER END” regarding the “THINGS TO COME” too as it is Written in Verses above?
In short, the Doctrine that neglects to fulfill the needs of the Poor and Needy does not belong to the God of Israel but is part of the “Idols”. So are we following the God of Israel’s Christianity or the “Idol” type of Prosperity hype & ignoring the Poor?
Also the CHARITY DOCTRINE is not about giving material things for free to the poor only but also the GOSPEL THINGS too which is discussed in detail in post in link below:
https://www.facebook.com/651792783/posts/10160996201987784/?substory_index=0
7) Do we Respect God and His Covenant?
Respecting the Covenant of God is directly evidenced by Helping the POOR and NEEDY and the OPPRESED by removing CRUELTY and hence they PRAISE GOD when you do so
“… 20HAVE RESPECT to THE COVENANT; For the [f]dark places of the earth are full of the [g]haunts of [h]CRUELTY. 21Oh, do not let the OPPRESED return ashamed! Let the POOR and NEEDY praise Your name. …” (Psalm 74:20 – 21, NKJV)
It can be inferred here too that ‘the Greater the Respect for God’s Covenant one has, one might HELP the POOR, NEEDY and OPPRESED more to be relived of the CRUELTY they suffer be it materialistically, physically, spiritually, economically, financially etc. ‘.
8) Do these Old Testament Verses apply in the New Covenant Times now?
Yes, because this is part of the Context of “Moses and the Prophets” referring to the “Charity Doctrine part” which the “Rich Man” failed to do that caused him to go to Hell (punishment regions of Hades) as Christ’s only Description of a Literal Hell in Luke 16:19 – 31, Verses:
“… 27“Then he said, ‘I beg you therefore, father, that you would send him to my father’s house, 28for I have five brothers, that he may testify to them, lest they also come to this place of torment.’ 29Abraham said to him, ‘They have Moses and the prophets; let them hear them.’ …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 16:27 – 29, NKJV)
9) Could someone say who believes in a Christ Centered Universalism or who never heard of hell but if they have heard of the “Eternal Hell” message be Saved because of that?
In the last reply in Luke 16 itself Christ Makes it clear that even if they would have heard the “Message of the Gospel / Prophets or Hell” be it from a “dead person who went there being raised to life”, they still would “not” Repent.
In contrast, it is also implied here that such a “repentant person” on the other hand would believe “Moses and the Prophets” (where not one writing of Moses nor the Old Testament Prophets speak of any afterlife Hell Description like this literally).
In other Words a “Saving Faith” that is pointed to in Context here refers to the “Doctrine Taught by Moses and the Prophets” which clearly does “not” include a vivid descriptive Hell like this & many of the Old Testament Faithful never wrote nor knew of the existence of such a place as evidenced by the Jewish Traditions too.
Some Old Testament Writings such as Daniel 12:2 seem to point to “Everlasting Shame” but no details of how or what it is proving that believing in the Judgment of God is sufficient without knowing the details.
If we take Moses (whom Christ Mentions explicitly), in his writings there is no vivid description of Hell in the afterlife either. So this proves that believing in Hell (as per the Insightful Prophet Daniel’s Wisdom in Daniel 12:2) or not knowing it exists also (as the case of Moses’ Writings) does “not” save anyone.
Conclusion – Saving Doctrine from Hell is the “Charity Doctrine” in “Christ”
Yes, then which “Doctrine” Saves them via Obedience in True Repentance?
This passage (Luke 16:19 – 31) is clear namely in that we need to teach these two things only when we “Preach Hell:”
- Believe in Moses and the Prophets when they Spoke of Christ and when they Commanded the Charity Doctrine Context to escape Hell
Any part of “Moses and the Prophets” which Speak of Hell especially in the Context of Practicing the “Charity Doctrine” which the “Rich Man” failed and went to “Hell” literally (this is the ‘only Context’ which is Written in Luke 16:19 – 31 by CHRIST HIMSELF – Can you see it Written Please?)
Verse for this part in Luke 16:
“… 25But Abraham said, ‘Son, remember that in your lifetime you received your good things, and likewise Lazarus evil things; but now he is comforted and you are tormented. …” – The KING, Luke 16:25, NKJV)
- Charity Doctrine Repentance for escaping Hell
Yes, the reason for being Saved or Unsaved is very clear in this only vivid description of Hel in Holy Scripture by Christ Himself namely whether one practiced the Charity Doctrine or not whilst being rich and the special Mercy to the poor if they were discriminated by the world and suffered literally by “Relative Measure” (God Will Decide each case Fairly). Verse for this from Luke 16:
“… 19“There was a certain rich man who was clothed in purple and fine linen and [h]fared sumptuously every day. 20But there was a certain beggar named Lazarus, full of sores, who was laid at his gate, 21desiring to be fed with [i]the crumbs which fell from the rich man’s table. Moreover the dogs came and licked his sores. 22So it was that the beggar died, and was carried by the angels to Abraham’s bosom. … 24“Then he cried and said, ‘Father Abraham, have mercy on me, and send Lazarus that he may dip the tip of his finger in water and cool my tongue; for I am tormented in this flame.’ 25But Abraham said, ‘Son, remember that in your lifetime you received your good things, and likewise Lazarus evil things; but now he is comforted and you are tormented. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 16:19 – 22, 24 – 25, NKJV)
Judgment Day Verses below (by Christ too) agrees Perfectly as it does “not” even state any of the ‘other acts of righteousness such as praying, fasting etc.’ but ALMSGIVING only because without ALMSGIVING of the CHARITY DOCTRINE LIFESTYLE, God is not interested in our religious works, Verses:
“… 31“When the Son of Man comes in His glory, and all the [c]holy angels with Him, then He will sit on the throne of His glory. 32All the nations will be gathered before Him, and He will separate them one from another, as a shepherd divides his sheep from the goats. 33And He will set the sheep on His right hand, but the goats on the left. 34Then the King will say to those on His right hand, ‘Come, you blessed of My Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world: 35for I was hungry and you gave Me food; I was thirsty and you gave Me drink; I was a stranger and you took Me in; 36I was naked and you clothed Me; I was sick and you visited Me; I was in prison and you came to Me.’ 37“Then the righteous will answer Him, saying, ‘LORD, WHEN DID WE SEE YOU HUNGRY and FEED YOU, OR THIRSTY AND GIVE YOU DRINK? 38When did we SEE YOU A STRANGER AND TAKE YOU IN, or NAKED AND CLOTHE YOU? 39Or when did we see YOU SICK, OR IN PRISON, AND COME TO YOU?’ 40And the King will answer and say to them, ‘ASSUREDLY, I SAY TO YOU, INASMUCH AS YOU DID IT TO ONE OF THE LEAST OF THESE MY BRETHREN, YOU DID IT TO ME.’ 41“Then He will also say to those on the left hand, ‘Depart from Me, you cursed, into the everlasting fire prepared for the devil and his angels: 42for I WAS HUNGRY AND YOU GAVE ME NO FOOD; I WAS THIRSTY AND YOU GAVE ME NO DRINK; 43I WAS A STRANGER and YOU DID NOT TAKE ME IN, NAKED and YOU DID NOT CLOTHE ME, SICK and IN PRISON AND YOU DID NOT VISIT ME.’ 44“Then they also will answer [d]Him, saying, ‘Lord, when DID WE SEE YOU HUNGRY or THIRSTY OR A STRANGER OR NAKED OR SICK or in PRISON, and did not minister to You?’ 45Then He will answer them, saying, ‘Assuredly, I say to you, inasmuch as YOU DID NOT DO IT to one of the least of these, you DID NOT DO IT TO ME.’ 46And THESE WILL GO AWAY INTO EVERLASTING PUNISHMENT, but the righteous into eternal life.” …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 25:31 – 46, NKJV)
Please allow me to repeat: Without ALMSGIVING of the CHARITY DOCTRINE LIFESTYLE toward the POOR and NEEDT, God is not interested in our religious works (such as Prayer + fasting etc.), and this is NOT “my opinion” or “interpretation” but literal “Bible Verses” (as God’s Principles does “not” Change), example below:
“… Why have WE FASTED,’ they say, ‘and YOU HAVE NOT SEEN? Why have WE AFFLICTED OUR SOULS, and YOU TAKE NO NOTICE?’ … 6“IS THIS NOT THE FAST THAT I HAVE CHOSEN: To loose the bonds of wickedness, To undo the [c]heavy burdens, To let the oppressed go free, And that you break every yoke? 7Is it not to SHARE YOUR BREAD with the HUNGRY, And that you bring to your house THE POOR who are cast out; When you see THE NAKED, that you cover him, And not hide yourself from YOUR OWN FLESH? 8Then YOUR LIGHT shall break forth like the MORNING, YOUR HEALING shall spring forth speedily, And your righteousness shall go before you; The glory of the Lord shall be your rear guard. 9Then you shall call, and the Lord will answer; You shall cry, and He will say, ‘Here I am.’ …” (Isaiah 58:3, 6 – 9, NKJV)
Did you notice that the FAST that GOD HAS CHOSEN is the CHARITY DOCTRINE LIFESTYLE consisting of these CHARITY DOCTRINE Acts only:
- i) To loose the bonds of wickedness,
Example: Help those who are bullied by evil or Strong Law Enforcement against Criminals.
- ii) To undo the [c]heavy burdens,
Example: Help people financially with their debts or if they suffer financially. Don’t overwork your employees taking big profits & paying them tit bits in comparison though it’s legal and done by worldly people.
iii) To let the oppressed go free,
Example: Forgive people of financial debts or show mercy to foreigners who are oppressed in their homeland.
- iv) And that you break every yoke?
Example: Treat people fairly and pay them fairly without discrimination of trying to give low wages just because others don’t have economic power and giving special favours to those of the same race causing say this yoke of racism as a burden toward others who deserve it more.
- v) 7Is it not to SHARE YOUR BREAD with the HUNGRY,
Example: Buy food for the poor, orphans and homeless etc. not just physical food needs to be shared but spiritual food too for “free” to fulfill this Charity Doctrine aspect as discussed in detail in an earlier post below with “other Bible Verses” too:
https://www.facebook.com/651792783/posts/10160996201987784/?substory_index=0
- vi) And that you bring to your house THE POOR who are cast out;
Example: Allow the poor to stay with you in your house.
vii) When you see THE NAKED, that you cover him,
Example: Do Charitable Giving when you see someone needy living on the streets even if you could do nothing more due to lack of finance or lack of support.
viii) And not hide yourself from YOUR OWN FLESH?
Example: Don’t keep away from your own family. If you have invited your family to come and live with you to practice these Charity Doctrine Acts toward others but they refuse and seek their own desires of prosperity or other fantasies, then it’s not your fault as it is them who is keeping away from you.
- New Testament Verses Confirmation of these Truths
- i) Moses and the Prophets part of Believe in the Messiah
“… 1Moreover, brethren, I declare to you the gospel which I preached to you, which also you received and in which you stand, 2by which also you are saved, if you hold fast that word which I preached to you—unless you believed in vain. 3For I delivered to you first of all that which I also received: that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, 4and that He was buried, and that He rose again the third day according to the Scriptures, 5and that He was seen by [a]Cephas, then by the twelve. 6After that He was seen by over five hundred brethren at once, of whom the greater part remain to the present, but some have [b]fallen asleep. 7After that He was seen by James, then by all the apostles. 8Then last of all He was seen by me also, as by one born out of due time. 9For I am the least of the apostles, who am not worthy to be called an apostle, because I persecuted the church of God. 10But by the grace of God I am what I am, and His grace toward me was not in vain; but I labored more abundantly than they all, yet not I, but the grace of God which was with me. 11Therefore, whether it was I or they, so we preach and so you believed. …” – Blessed St. Paul, Apostle of Christ to the Gentiles (1 Corinthians 15:1 – 11, NKJV)
- ii) Moses and the Prophets part of Practicing the Charity Doctrine
“… 7But on the contrary, when they saw that the gospel for the uncircumcised had been committed to me, as the gospel for the circumcised was to Peter 8(for He who worked effectively in Peter for the apostleship to the circumcised also worked effectively in me toward the Gentiles), 9and when James, [c]Cephas, and John, who seemed to be pillars, perceived the grace that had been given to me, they gave me and Barnabas the right hand of fellowship, that we should go to the Gentiles and they to the circumcised. 10They desired only that we should REMEMBER THE POOR, the very thing which I also was eager to do. …” – Blessed St. Paul, Apostle of Christ to the Gentiles (Galatians 2:7 – 10, NKJV)
Can you see it as it is Written Please in the above?
The “only Apostolic Preaching of the Gospel” described in Verses above consists not of ‘other gits be it speaking in tongues, healing prophesying etc.’ which are “good” but “not” necessary (according to 1 Corinthians 12:27 – 30) but rather it consists only of these two “mandatory” things (which is NOT an option) namely:
- Preach the Gospel with New Testament Verses (Galatians 2:7 – 9).
- Teach the Charity Doctrine (Galatians 2:10). Focus phrase for this part which we emphasize here: “… 10They [the PILLARS, APOSTLES, Galatians 2:9 above] DESIRED ONLY that we should REMEMBER THE POOR, the very thing which I also was eager to do. …” – Blessed St. Paul, Apostle of Christ to the Gentiles (Galatians 2:7 – 10, NKJV)
Note: Please notice that they “… 0They [the PILLARS, APOSTLES, Galatians 2:9 above] … ONLY DESIRED … that we should REMEMBER THE POOR,” whenever we ‘Preach the Gospel’. The “only” part settles it as necessary and sufficient. Nothing else matters or is greater. This is the “True Preaching of the Gospel” and Blessed are the Christians and Churches which DO and TEACH this (Matthew 5:19).
Summary
So are we Teaching “True Repentance” on how to escape Hell based on this two Points only (i.e. Believe in “Christ” and do the “Charity Doctrine” as Moses and the Prophets Wrote agreeing with the Context of Points Stated in Luke 16:19 – 31 too?) This is what we need to focus on and it’s sufficient for True Repentance.
The Consequence of erring in these aspects is Hell. Yes, but the saved ones and the Prophets did not teach of this “description of Hell” for those who heard them to be saved. They Preached the Charity Doctrine without practicing which the rich man went to hell. So, are we preaching the Charity Doctrine so that people don’t go to Hell as signified in this “Rich man and Lazarus” story?
In short, you are not saved by believing a description of Hell but rather whether or not you practiced the Charity Doctrine (if you are rich) and if you are poor (like Lazarus), by “Relative Measure” you could find God’s Mercy as Christ Himself clearly Describes this in Luke 16:19 – 31’s only vivid Literal description of Hell in Scripture.
That’s why we emphasize and Preach the Charity Doctrine part of “Moses and the Prophets too” beyond “believing Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ as the Messiah” as clearly implied in these Verses for someone to have “True Repentance” to escape Hell for this Safe Route Scripturally.
In short: Please teach them how to avoid Hell by Repenting with the Charity Doctrine as you are not saved by knowing whether Hell was there are not before you die as most likely Lazarus did “not” know the existence of Hell. But what we need to know and practice to avoid Hell is the Charity Doctrine type of Repentance and that’s why the Focus on the Doctrine of Hell Preaching needs to be this and nothing else as it is Written in Luke 16:19 – 31.
Peace to you
Good Works is the Sign of Repentance
Good Works refers primarily to the Charity Doctrine according to the Judgment Verses (Matthew 25:31 – 46).
Verse (in image too), Romans 2:7 in a few Translations below:
Berean Literal Bible
to those who indeed with endurance in good work are seeking glory and honor and immortality, eternal life;
King James Bible
To them who by patient continuance in well doing seek for glory and honour and immortality, eternal life:
New King James Version
eternal life to those who by patient continuance in doing good seek for glory, honor, and immortality;
New American Standard Bible
to those who by perseverance in doing good seek glory, honor, and immortality, He will give eternal life;
Apostle St. Paul is repeating what Christ Said below:
“… 28Marvel not at this: for the hour is coming, in the which all that are in the graves shall hear his voice, 29And shall come forth; they that have DONE GOOD, unto the RESURRECTION of LIFE; and they that have done evil, unto the resurrection of damnation. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ, (John 5:28 – 29, KJV)
Note: nothing wrong in seeking “Glory and Immortality whilst doing Good Works” according to this same Verse too.
Peace to you
Charity Doctrine Lifestyle Gospel Commands Mystery – What Really Gives Glory to God?
Source Post (please click for an easier reading):
https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=10160996201987784&substory_index=0&id=651792783
If I have a last Sermon or Bible Sharing, this entire post would be it.
1) A Sole Condition which Gives Glory to God is that “whatever” we do must “BENEFIT OTHERS”
The Bible is very clear that “what gives Glory to God” is only things (earthly or spiritual) which “BENEFITS OTHERS”, Verse:
“… 30But if I partake with thanks, why am I evil spoken of for the food over which I give thanks 31Therefore, whether you eat or drink, or WHATEVER YOU DO, DO ALL TO THE GLORY OF GOD. 32Give no offense, either to the Jews or to the Greeks or to the church of God, 33just as I also PLEASE ALL MEN IN ALL THINGS, NOT SEEKING MY OWN PROFIT, BUT THE PROFIT OF MANY, that they may be saved. …” (1 Corinthians 10:30 – 33, NKJV)
Context: So “… WHATEVER YOU DO, DO ALL TO THE GLORY OF GOD. …” (1 Corinthians 10:31) refer to “Give Glory to God” as long as you are doing it to “… PLEASE ALL MEN IN ALL THINGS, NOT SEEKING MY OWN PROFIT, BUT THE PROFIT OF MANY, that they may be saved. …” (1 Corinthians 10:33, NKJV) in Verses above?
So “pleasing men” is allowed if our intention is good which is to hope for them to be “Saved” and if it BENEFITS/PROFITS MANY.
2) Sharing Spiritual Things
This is why I like Pastors who put their Sermons or Stream their Church Gatherings on Facebook or equivalent because these are sharing their spiritual things freely for anyone to BENEFIT from and thus are truly fulfilling the condition of BENEFITING MANY by NOT SEEKING OWN PROFIT whilst doing so which can only be attained in FREE GIVING/SHARING and thus brings “Glory to God” as 1 Corinthians 10:30 – 33 above.
I don’t like Churches which are hard to reach especially for the poor where they only allow their personal church members to attend even online because such a practice is against this Verse below which clearly describes that a Church must be accessible even to the “Unbeliever” to the point that they can “Walk in” and “observe”, Verse (not opinions of men):
“… Therefore if the WHOLE CHURCH COMES TOGETHER in ONE PLACE, and all speak with tongues, and there come in those who are uninformed or UNBELIEVERS, will they not say that you are out of your mind? …” (1 Corinthians 14:23, NKJV)
Some Churches do “not” allow non-members to attend their Sunday Gatherings which clearly contradicts 1 Corinthians 14:23 above. Also, some will claim that they’re scared if anything wrong the pastor says can be recorded or quoted by others say during preaching and so that’s why they don’t allow easy Church access to the public even when it’s online. This clearly contradicts the Verse below too because why scared if you a pastor can Preach wrong (solution: just admit it and change, simple as that or the rest no need to judge), Verses:
“… 19But when they deliver you up, do not worry about how or what you should speak. For it will be given to you in that hour what you should speak; 20for it is not you who speak, but the Spirit of your Father who speaks in you. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 10:19 – 20, NKJV)
Christ Commanded this as follows:
“… Freely you have received, freely give. …” – God in Flesh, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 10:8, NKJV)
I am “not” fond of Prosperity Christianity which Gives so little when measured in “Relative Measure” (as they receive far more than what they give/share, God Counts as per the case of the Poor Widow with 2 coins, in Luke 21:1 – 4 or the early church examples in 2 Corinthians 8:1 – 7 and so big givings in amount may not be much when given out of great abundance as Christ Himself remarked as follows):
“… 1And He looked up and saw the rich putting their gifts into the treasury, 2and He saw also a certain poor widow putting in two mites. 3So He [The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ] said, “Truly I say to you that this poor widow has put in MORE THAN ALL; 4for all these out of their abundance have put in offerings for God, but she out of HER POVERTY put in ALL THE LIVELIHOOD THAT SHE HAD. …” (Luke 21:1 – 4, NKJV)
Since God Counts our Giving based on what we receive or in Christ’s Own Most Blessed Words “… 4for all these out of their abundance have put in offerings for God, …”, we ought to take note too if we truly seek to “Please Him” in “this Grace” (2 Corinthians 8:7). Being imperfect we cannot do a little bigger giving all the time but at least once would suffice at a deeper level while if other times lesser too so that we can experience true giving & also at least we know this which should humble us.
I am totally “not” fond of Christianity which merchandises the Gospel at high prices because His things are Priceless and thus must be free (as His Command in Matthew 10:8). However God in His Mercy allows Gospel things to be sold if they’re used for ministry + a “Living” (“needs” only not prosperity) for money Collected in His Name as He Said in Verses below (where the Perfect Way is still working a secular job if one can to increase one’s “reward” [please notice this word carefully in the below] as God Counts in Relative Measure to be Fair to all):
“… 14Even so the LORD HAS COMMANDED that those who preach the gospel should LIVE FROM THE GOSPEL. 15But I have used none of these things, nor have I written these things that it should be done so to me; … 18What is MY REWARD then? That when I preach the gospel, I may present the GOSPEL OF CHRIST WITHOUT CHARGE, that I may not abuse my authority in the gospel. …” (1 Corinthians 9:14 – 15, 18, NKJV)
I have heard of some Christianity which even highly prices “His things” and never gives free telling people that they must buy at high price to honour God which is “not” Written in any Bible Verse and in fact the opposite of “Giving it free” or doing “ministry or any work for lower wages of the Context of Living (“needs”) from the Gospel only” is the HIGHEST WAY to EMULATE CHRIST in these Commands too as these quoted Verses all Describe clearly as it is Written.
3) Sharing Earthly Things
Material (Earthly Things sharing) is also considered equivalent to sharing spiritual things as it’s not the things but your attitude which is revealed as “Carrying your Cross” to “lay down your life” according to what’s given to you and “BENEFITS OTHERS” as 1 Corinthians 10:30 – 33 earlier also agrees as the Sole Condition Context required to “bring Glory to God” as this is the “Law of Christ”, related, Verses:
“… Then Jesus said to His disciples, “If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me.” (Matthew 16:24, NKJV)
“… So then, none of you can be My disciple who does not give up all his own possessions. …” (Luke 14:33, NASB)
“… Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ. …” (Galatians 6:2, NKJV)
This Verse below also explains this “NEW TESTAMENT COMMAND” clearly:
“… 17COMMAND THOSE WHO ARE RICH in this present age not to be haughty, nor to trust in uncertain riches but in the living God, who gives us richly all things to enjoy. 18Let THEM DO GOOD, that they be RICH IN GOOD WORKS, READY TO GIVE, WILLING TO SHARE, 19storing up for themselves a good foundation for the time to come, that THEY MAY LAY HOLD ON ETERNAL LIFE. …” (1 Timothy 6:17 – 19, NKJV)
“… 12Then He also said to him who invited Him, “When you give a dinner or a supper, do not ask your friends, your brothers, your relatives, NOR RICH NEIGHBORS, lest they also invite you back, and you be repaid. 13But when you give a feast, INVITE the POOR, THE MAIMED, THE LAME, THE BLIND. 14And you will be BLESSED, because they cannot repay you; for you shall be REPAID at the RESURRECTION OF THE JUST.” …” (Luke 14:12 – 14, NKJV)
Literal Example in the Bible for this “Charity Doctrine Lifestyle”:
- i) Zacchaeus gave “half of his goods to the poor” and on top of that restored fourfold whatever he wronged, and following this immediately Christ Responded that Salvation has come and that he is Saved, Verses:
“… 5And when Jesus came to the place, He looked up [a]and saw him, and said to him, “Zacchaeus, [b]make haste and come down, for today I must stay at your house.” 6So he [c]made haste and came down, and received Him joyfully. 7But when they saw it, they all [d]complained, saying, “He has gone to be a guest WITH A MAN WHO IS A SINNER.” 8Then Zacchaeus stood and said to the Lord, “LOOK, LORD, I GIVE HALF OF MY GOODS TO THE POOR; AND IF I HAVE TAKEN ANYTHING FROM ANYONE BY FALSE ACCUSATION, I RESTORE FOURFOLD.” 9And JESUS SAID TO HIM, “TODAY SALVATION HAS COME TO THIS HOUSE, because he also is a son of Abraham; 10for THE SON OF MAN has come TO SEEK AND TO SAVE THAT WHICH WAS LOST.” …” (Luke 19:5 – 9, NKJV)
This is how Salvation looks like to a rich man who truly believes in Christ (a Biblical example above).
- ii) The once Dead Christian Example
“… 36At Joppa there was a certain disciple named TABITHA, which is translated Dorcas. This woman was FULL OF GOOD WORKS AND CHARITABLE DEEDS which SHE DID. 37But it happened in those days that she became sick and died. … 40But Peter put them all out, and knelt down and prayed. And turning to the body he said, “Tabitha, arise.” And she opened her eyes, and when she saw Peter she sat up. 41Then he gave her his hand and lifted her up; and when he had called the saints and widows, he presented her alive. 42And it became known throughout all Joppa, and many believed on the Lord. …” (Acts 9:36 – 37, 40 – 42, NKJV)
Please notice that Tabitha was Saved when she believed in Christ and did lived this Charity Doctrine Lifestyle except that she was raised back to life again. This itself proved that believing in Christ and after that striving to live in holiness + a Charity Doctrine Lifestyle is enough for Salvation and is PRAISED by HOLY NEW TESTAMENT SCRIPTURE in Verses above.
iii) The Living Christian Example
Even the “Godliness” Condition for a “Widow” included this “Charity Doctrine Lifestyle” in “family & beyond” as these phrases in Verses below clearly prove namely “… 10WELL REPORTED FOR GOOD WORKS: if she has BROUGHT UP CHILDREN, if SHE HAS LODGED STRANGERS, if she has washed the saints’ feet, if she has RELIEVED THE AFFLICTED, IF SHE HAS DILIGENTLY FOLLOWED EVERY GOOD WORK.“, to quote in full:
“… 9Do not let a widow under sixty years old be taken into the number, and not unless she has been the wife of one man, 10WELL REPORTED FOR GOOD WORKS: if she has BROUGHT UP CHILDREN, if SHE HAS LODGED STRANGERS, if she has washed the saints’ feet, if she has RELIEVED THE AFFLICTED, IF SHE HAS DILIGENTLY FOLLOWED EVERY GOOD WORK. 11But [c]refuse the younger widows; for when they have begun to grow wanton against Christ, they desire to marry, 12having condemnation because they have CAST OFF THEIR FIRST [D]FAITH. …” (1 Timothy 5:9 – 12, NKJV)
4) Sola Fide (“Faith Alone”) and the “Charity Doctrine Lifestyle”
Almsgiving Lifestyle is “not” the Work of the Law which is nullified but part of the “Doctrine of Sanctification” together with Prayer + Fasting as even the Inspired Author of Sola Fide (or “Faith Alone”) Apostle St. Paul himself Practiced for “Purification” (or “Sanctification“), as described in “New Testament Verses” below:
“… 14But this I confess to you, that according to the Way which they call a sect, so I WORSHIP THE GOD OF MY FATHERS, BELIEVING ALL THINGS which are WRITTEN IN THE LAW AND IN THE PROPHETS. 15I have hope in God, which they themselves also accept, that there will be a resurrection [e]of the dead, both of the just and the unjust. 16This being so, I myself always strive to have a conscience without offense toward God and men. 17“NOW AFTER MANY YEARS I CAME to BRING ALMS AND OFFERINGS TO MY NATION, 18in the midst of which some Jews from Asia FOUND ME PURIFIED IN THE TEMPLE, neither with a mob nor with tumult. 19They ought to have been here before you to object if they had anything against me. 20Or else let those who are here themselves say [f]if they found any wrongdoing in me while I stood before the council, 21unless it is for this one statement which I cried out, standing among them, ‘Concerning the resurrection of the dead I am being judged by you this day.’ ” …” – Blessed St. Paul the Great Apostle of Christ (Acts of the Apostles, 24:14 – 21, NKJV)
This “Doctrine of Inner Sanctification” from “Lawlessness within of Greed & Evil/Wickedness” by Doing Almsgiving/Charity Doctrine is Taught by CHRIST HIMSELF (so let’s “Follow Christ and not men” please in this), Verses:
“… (39Then the Lord said to him), “Now you Pharisees make the OUTSIDE OF THE CUP AND DISH CLEAN, but your INWARD part is full of GREED and WICKEDNESS. 40Foolish ones! Did not He who made the outside make the INSIDE also? 41But rather GIVE ALMS [CHARITY] of SUCH THINGS AS YOU HAVE; then indeed ALL THINGS are CLEAN to you. . …” – The KING, The Holiest One, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 11:39 – 41, NKJV)
Related Verses which may shed light on this Mystery of Sanctification in Almsgiving by fulfilling the Father’s Will in Christ’s Command above, please consider:
“… Wherefore, O king, let my counsel be acceptable unto thee, and BREAK OFF THY SINS BY RIGHTEOUSNESS, and THINE INIQUITIES BY SHEWING MERCY TO THE POOR; if it may be a lengthening of thy tranquillity. …” – Blessed Prophet Daniel (Daniel 4:27, KJV based on the Masoretic Text)
Source: https://biblehub.com/daniel/4-27.htm
Compare:
” … 27Therefore, O king, let my counsel please thee, and ATONE FOR THY SINS BY ALMS, and THINE INIQUITIES BY COMPASSION ON THE POOR: it may be God will be long-suffering to thy trespasses.” … – Blessed Prophet Daniel (Daniel 4:27, Brenton Septuagint Translation, based on the Septuagint or LXX)
Source: https://biblehub.com/sep/daniel/4.htm
Note: Prophet Daniel is considered one of the “wisest Prophet of God” to have ever lived, example Verse which possibly compares him to “Lucifer” too below (where even if the verse below doesn’t refer to Lucifer allegorically but just the Prince of Tyre, Prophet Daniel’s Gift of Wisdom to understand such rarely known Mysteries say on Almsgiving which is almost unique to him in Daniel 4:27 as different prophets bring in Wisdom in different Areas of emphasis which also agrees to CHRIST’S OWN POWERFUL quote on ALMSGIVING in Luke 11:41 earlier that may be understood as ‘very important’ in light of this reason too):
“… 3(Behold, you are wiser than Daniel! There is no secret that can be hidden from you! …” (Ezekiel 28:3, NKJV)
And so such a ‘Hidden Wisdom’ of the Torah regarding Almsgiving which we see in Prophet Daniel’s Words above agreeing to Christ’s may reflect such rare “Pearls” of “Wisdom” by Christ Himself (e.g. Luke 11:41) and so please don’t waste your time trying to convince those who are not interested in it, example Verses:
“… 6“Do not give what is holy to the dogs; nor cast your pearls before swine, lest they trample them under their feet, and turn and tear you in pieces. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 7:6, NKJV)
Note: “Swine” is a “Selfish animal” which thinks of no other but itself. Dogs are loyal to food (equivalently prosperity) as the same dog can be loyal to a rapist or murderer too just because he gives him food unable to discern good from evil.
5) Charity Doctrine Lifestyle for a “Gold” Reward Level Faith in Christ
Secret: Is Almsgiving Closely related to the “Gold Level Reward” in “Heaven”?
“… 11For no other foundation can anyone lay than that which is laid, which is Jesus Christ. 12Now if anyone builds on this foundation with GOLD, SILVER, PRECIOUS STONES, wood, hay, straw, 13each one’s work will become clear; FOR THE DAY WILL DECLARE IT, because IT WILL BE REVEALED BY FIRE [Lake of Fire, Revelation 20:11 – 15]; and the fire will test each one’s work, of what sort it is. 14If anyone’s work which he has built on it endures, he will receive a reward. 15If anyone’s work is burned, he will suffer loss; but HE HIMSELF WILL BE SAVED, YET SO AS THROUGH FIRE. …” (1 Corinthians 3:11 – 15, NKJV)
Example: Almsgiving is closely related to the “Reward of Gold” referred to in 1 Corinthians 3:15 above. The “Lukewarm Church” is the “Prosperity Gospel” Church which “… says, ‘I am rich, have become wealthy, and have need of nothing’ …” (as no other sin is mentioned of them say sexual immorality or anything else as Christ Warned the other Churches in Revelation) but yet Christ Calls them to “Repent” (meaning that they’re not necessarily Saved) in Verses below where they are exhorted to buy “spiritual gold refined in fire” to be truly “rich with Eternal Treasure in the heavens” with the “Charity Doctrine Works” (e.g. Luke 12:30 – 34, Matthew 6:1 – 5) instead of the “earthly gold” they had, Verses:
“… 14“And to the [i]angel of the church [j]of the Laodiceans write, ‘These things says the Amen, the Faithful and True Witness, the Beginning of the creation of God: 15“I KNOW YOUR WORKS, that you are neither cold nor hot. I could wish you were cold or hot. 16So then, because YOU ARE LUKEWARM, and neither [k]cold nor hot, I will vomit you out of My mouth. 17Because you say, ‘I AM RICH, HAVE BECOME WEALTHY, and HAVE NEED OF NOTHING’—and do not know that YOU ARE WRETCHED, MISERABLE, POOR, BLIND, AND NAKED— 18I counsel you to BUY FROM ME GOLD REFINED IN THE FIRE, that YOU MAY BE RICH; and white garments, that you may be clothed, that the shame of your nakedness may not be revealed; and anoint your eyes with eye salve, that you may see. 19As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten.[l] Therefore be [m]zealous and repent. 20Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and dine with him, and he with Me. 21To him who overcomes I will grant to sit with Me on My throne, as I also overcame and sat down with My Father on His throne.22“He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches.” ’ …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Revelation 3:14 – 22, NKJV)
“… Therefore I say to you, HER SINS, which are MANY, ARE FORGIVEN, for SHE LOVED MUCH. But to whom little is forgiven, the same loves little. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 7:47, NKJV)
“… And above all things have fervent love for one another, for “LOVE will COVER a MULTITUDE OF SINS.” …”(1 Peter 4:8, NKJV)
“… just as Christ also loved the church and gave Himself for her, 26that He MIGHT [G]SANCTIFY and CLEANSE HER WITH THE WASHING OF WATER by THE WORD, 27that He might present her to Himself a glorious church, not having spot or wrinkle or any such thing, but that she should be holy and without blemish. …” (Ephesians 5:25 – 27, NKJV)
Yes, Sanctified by His Word refers to DOING HIS NEW TESTAMENT COMMANDS as no point in quoting ‘Cancelled Verses’. Yes, Some parts of the Torah passes away and is “not” Eternal but to that Old Testament age/Aeon/Olam only
“… In that He says, “ A NEW COVENANT,” He has MADE THE FIRST OBSOLETE. Now what is becoming obsolete and growing old is ready TO VANISH AWAY. …” (Hebrews 8:13, NKJV)
“… SANCTIFY them by Your truth. YOUR WORD is truth. …” (John 17:17, NKJV)
“… BLESSED are those who DO HIS COMMANDMENTS, that they may have the RIGHT TO THE TREE OF LIFE, and may ENTER THROUGH THE GATES INTO THE CITY. …” (Revelation 22:14, NKJV)
In full:
“… 12“And behold, I am coming quickly, and My reward is with Me, to give to every one according to his work. 13I am the Alpha and the Omega, the [f]Beginning and the End, the First and the Last.” 14BLESSED ARE THOSE WHO [G]DO HIS COMMANDMENTS, that they may have the right to the TREE OF LIFE, and may ENTER THROUGH THE GATES INTO THE CITY. 15[h]But OUTSIDE are dogs and sorcerers and sexually immoral and murderers and idolaters, and whoever loves and practices a lie. 16“I, Jesus, have sent My angel to testify to you these things in the churches. I am the Root and the Offspring of David, the Bright and Morning Star.” …” (Revelation 22:14 – 16, NKJV)
6) Warning Others Responsibility
If you have Warned them “in words only” but they don’t listen, your work is done and you are Saved, Verses:
“… When I say to the wicked, ‘O wicked man, you shall surely die!’ and you do not speak to warn the wicked from his way, that wicked man shall die in his iniquity; BUT HIS BLOOD I WILL REQUIRE AT YOUR HAND. Nevertheless if you warn the wicked to turn from his way, and he does not turn from his way, he shall die in his iniquity; but YOU HAVE DELIVERED YOUR SOUL. …” (Ezekiel 33:8 – 9, NKJV)
“… 19Whoever therefore BREAKS one of the LEAST of THESE COMMANDMENTS, and TEACHES men so, shall be called LEAST in the kingdom of HEAVEN; but whoever DOES AND TEACHES them, he shall be called GREAT in the kingdom of HEAVEN. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 5:19, NKJV)
Comment: The “First and Last” Ranking of His Kingdom links to being “Least or Greatest” in His Kingdom which is closely related to “doing and teaching” His New Testament “Commands” not Prophecy interpretation, flat earth vs spherical earth or other things (as Matthew 5:19 above Describe Clearly – can you see it?).
7) Is Charity Doctrine Lifestyle equivalent to Martyrdom?
The phrase “lay down our lives” (which signifies an equivalence to Martyrdom) is clearly Revealed in Verses below toward a Christian who Voluntarily lives out the Charity Doctrine Lifestyle.
“… 16By this we know love, because He laid down His life for us. And we also OUGHT TO LAY DOWN OUR LIVES FOR THE BRETHREN. 17But WHOEVER HAS THIS WORLD’S GOODS, and SEES HIS BROTHER IN NEED, AND SHUTS UP HIS HEART FROM HIM, HOW DOES THE LOVE OF GOD ABIDE IN HIM? 18My little children, let us NOT LOVE IN WORD or IN TONGUE, BUT IN DEED AND IN TRUTH …” (1 John 3:10 – 18, NKJV)
The Desire of the Apostolic Calling is Preach the Gospel while “remembering the Poor” which may also signify which type of “Gospel Preaching” is the Apostolic one namely one that “remembers the poor” by helping them via the Charity Doctrine Lifestyle by Sharing FREELY both the Spiritual things and Physical things toward them:
“… THEY (Pillars, Apostles) DESIRED only that we should REMEMBER THE POOR, the very thing which I also was eager to do. …” (Galatians 2:10, NKJV)
Example: Please give some of God’s Gift to you be it a spiritual gift or material gift toward others (Christians or non-Christians for free without selling them) to Practice this New Testament Command of Christ as so many verses quoted here prove (e.g. Matthew 10:8 for Spiritual Things and Luke 11:41 for Earthly Material things both of these quotes by CHRIST HIMSELF). Whether or not they receive it or share with others, the judgment is passed on to them as the Watchman Verses in Ezekiel 33:6, 8 prove whilst we are saved after warning them “in words only” to do likewise. As the “Relative Measure” verses Speak too (e.g. Luke 21:1 – 4), your part is done and is rewardable in His Glorious Kingdom.
Please remember that Salvation in Christ itself is a “Free Gift of God” to us which is “the Greatest Act of Charity” and thus likewise this proves the utmost importance of the Charity Doctrine in any type of True Gospel Work. Can you see it?
8) What about other Doctrinal Differences?
Here are some Verses from Ezekiel 14:
- I recently posted about that we must be careful to claim that ‘God told me so’ unless it’s really the LORD where we can be condemned if He Didn’t which is this Verse:
“… 9“And if the prophet is induced to speak anything, I the Lord have induced that prophet, and I will stretch out My hand against him and destroy him from among My people Israel. …” (Ezekiel 14:9, NKJV)
So, I don’t judge those who claim that or approve them necessarily but keep neutral as Christ allows us the choice to not Judge (Matthew 7:1 – 3).
This is “not” a small sin as some think but it’s described as follows more clearly in Jeremiah:
“… 34“And as for THE PROPHET AND THE PRIEST and THE PEOPLE who say, ‘THE [J]ORACLE OF THE LORD!’ I WILL EVEN PUNISH THAT MAN and HIS HOUSE. 35Thus every one of you shall say to his neighbor, and every one to his brother, ‘What has the Lord answered?’ and, ‘What has the Lord spoken?’ 36And the [k]ORACLE OF THE LORD YOU SHALL MENTION NO MORE. For EVERY MAN’S WORD WILL BE HIS ORACLE, for you have perverted the words of the living God, the Lord of hosts, our God. 37Thus you shall say to the prophet, ‘What has the Lord answered you?’ and, ‘What has the Lord spoken?’ 38But since you say, ‘The [l]oracle of the Lord!’ therefore thus says the Lord: ‘Because you say this word, “The oracle of the Lord!” and I have sent to you, saying, “Do not say, ‘The oracle of the Lord!’ ” 39therefore behold, I, even I, WILL UTTERLY FORGET YOU and FORSAKE YOU, and the city that I gave you and your fathers, and will cast you out of My presence. 40And I WILL BRING AN EVERLASTING REPROACH UPON YOU, AND A PERPETUAL SHAME, which SHALL NOT BE FORGOTTEN.’ ” …” (Jeremiah 23:34 – 40, NKJV)
Comment: God’s Principles does “not” Change. You can clearly see the “Hard Judgment” awaiting those who claim “… God told me …” Or equivalent (e.g. “… Oracle of the LORD …”) unless that person really heard from God 100%.
As for me I neither endorse them nor judge them and prefer the “Safe Route Scripturally” which is Commanded by God here as “… 36And the [k]ORACLE OF THE LORD YOU SHALL MENTION NO MORE. For EVERY MAN’S WORD WILL BE HIS ORACLE, …” (Jeremiah 23:36).
This verse allows us to express “out opinions” where since if we don’t claim “… God told me …”, God Seems to be “Lenient” and vice versa. Can you see it please as “it is Written”? (God may give room for error if we are wrong provided we do “not” take His Holy Name in Vain by claiming “… God told me …” In such cases).
I am “not” against Prophecy but please be careful of who you call Prophet and endorse because if they are wrong, these Verses do “not” seem to point lightly as the Principle of “Everlasting Reproach” or “Perpetual Shame” does not sound simple to me.
- The important thing is to focus on God’s Written/Given Commands which gives us Righteousness through Him as He Enables us to obey which is another thing I recently wrote about too, a wonderful confirmation. The Verse in Ezekiel about this:
“… 12The word of the Lord came again to me, saying: 13“Son of man, when a land sins against Me by persistent unfaithfulness, I will stretch out My hand against it; I will cut off its supply of bread, send famine on it, and cut off man and beast from it. 14Even if these three men, Noah, Daniel, and Job, were in it, they would deliver only themselves by their righteousness,” says the Lord God. …” (Ezekiel 14:12 – 14, NKJV)
God Quotes these Three only when He Spoke of Righteousness and Daniel has that deep wisdom on the Charity Doctrine Mystery as it is Written in Daniel 4:27.
9) The Good Samaritan Parable
“… 25And behold, a certain lawyer stood up and tested Him, saying, “Teacher, what shall I DO TO INHERIT ETERNAL LIFE?” 26He said to him, “What is WRITTEN IN THE LAW? What is YOUR READING OF IT?” 27So he answered and said, “ ‘You shall LOVE THE LORD YOUR GOD with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your strength, and with all your mind,’ and ‘YOUR NEIGHBOR AS YOURSELF.’ ” 28And He said to him, “You have answered rightly; DO THIS AND YOU WILL LIVE.” 29But he, wanting to justify himself, said to Jesus, “And WHO IS MY NEIGHBOR?” 30Then JESUS ANSWERED and said: “A certain man went down from Jerusalem to Jericho, and fell among thieves, who stripped him of his clothing, wounded him, and departed, leaving him half dead. 31Now by chance a certain priest came down that road. And when he saw him, he passed by on the other side. 32Likewise a Levite, when he arrived at the place, came and looked, and passed by on the other side. 33But a certain Samaritan, as he journeyed, came where he was. And when he saw him, he had COMPASSION. 34So he went to him and BANDAGED HIS WOUNDS, pouring on oil and wine; and he set him on his own animal, brought him to an inn, and TOOK CARE OF HIM. 35On the next day, when he departed, he took out two denarii, gave them to the innkeeper, and said to him, ‘TAKE CARE OF HIM; and WHATEVER MORE YOU SPEND, when I come again, I WILL REPAY YOU.’ 36So which of these three do you think was NEIGHBOR to him who fell among the thieves? 37And he said, “He who SHOWED MERCY on him.” Then JESUS SAID to him, “GO AND DO LIKEWISE.”…” (Luke 10:25 – 37, NKJV)
In another place this same command of “Love God and then your neighbor” (with Literal earthly Charity Doctrine Acts as Christ Described Parable above) where Jews and Samaritans are “enemies even” is told by Christ Himself (and not men) in Verses below as that there is NO GREATER COMMANDMENT of God which we can teach another Human Being, Verses:
“… 29JESUS answered him, “The [k]first of all the commandments is: ‘Hear, O Israel, the Lord our God, the Lord is one. 30And you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your mind, and with all your strength.’ [l]This is the first commandment. 31And the second, like it, is this: ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is NO OTHER COMMANDMENT GREATER THAN THESE.” …” (Mark 12:29 – 31, NKJV)
Perhaps that’s why Christ Mysteriously Echoed the Answer to the Question above “…what SHALL I DO to INHERIT ETERNAL LIFE? …” (Luke 10:25, KJV) as the “Charity Doctrine” as described in the Parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:26 – 27). Please take note that “Samaritans” do “not” have a Correct Concept of God according to Christ Himself in Verse below:
“… 7A woman of Samaria came to draw water. Jesus said to her, “Give Me a drink.” 8For His disciples had gone away into the city to buy food. 9Then the woman of Samaria said to Him, “How is it that You, being a Jew, ask a drink from me, a Samaritan woman?” For Jews have no dealings with Samaritans. … 19The woman said to Him, “Sir, I perceive that You are a prophet. 20Our fathers worshiped on this mountain, and you Jews say that in Jerusalem is the place where one ought to worship.” 21Jesus said to her, “Woman, believe Me, the hour is coming when you will neither on this mountain, nor in Jerusalem, worship the Father. 22You worship what you do not know; we know what we worship, for salvation is of the Jews. 23But the HOUR IS COMING, and NOW IS, when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth; for the Father is seeking such to worship Him. 24God is Spirit, and those who worship Him must worship in spirit and truth.” 25The woman said to Him, “I know that Messiah is coming” (who is called Christ). “When He comes, He will tell us all things.” 26JESUS said to her, “I who speak to you am He.” …” (John 4:7 – 8, 19 – 24, KJV)
The phrase “…22You worship what you do not know; we know what we worship …” (John 4:22) means that a “Samaritan” represents an “imperfect Christian doctrinally” and/or a “non-Christian” Symbolically. So this imperfect Christian/non-Christian (or Samaritan) described parabolically here who does not know the True God who did the “Charity Doctrine” as per the “Parable of the Good Samaritan” might attain to his reward to “inherit the Eternal Life” by Christ’s Mercy (Luke 10:25 – 27) if we combine these Verses to understand it which agrees with the Cornelius example prior to him becoming a Christian too.
“… 25Verily, verily, I say unto you, The HOUR IS COMING, and NOW IS, WHEN THE DEAD SHALL HEAR the voice of the Son of God: and they that hear shall live. 26For as the Father hath life in himself; so hath he given to the Son to have life in himself; 27And hath given him authority to execute judgment also, because he is the Son of man. 28Marvel not at this: for the hour is coming, in the which all that are in the graves shall hear his voice, 29And shall come forth; they that have DONE GOOD, unto the RESURRECTION of LIFE; and they that have done evil, unto the resurrection of damnation. …” (John 5:25 – 29, KJV)
10) A Possible Warning
Are we Fulfilling the Great Commission?
“… 18And Jesus came and spoke to them, saying, “All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. 19Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20TEACHING THEM TO OBSERVE ALL THINGS THAT I HAVE COMMANDED YOU; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” Amen.” (Matthew 28:18 – 20, NKJV)
This part of the Great Commission is overlooked much “… 20TEACHING THEM TO OBSERVE ALL THINGS THAT I HAVE COMMANDED YOU; …” and may mark the difference between the thirty-fold, sixty-fold Vs Hundredfold converts.
This is “not” an Out of Context quoting of Scripture as the same Context above of ‘building the House on the Rock of Christ’ = Building a Faith by Doing His Commands without which the risk of “Lawlessness” exists is Echoed clearly in the Great Denial Verses below (where “Many” converts based on Prophesying, Casting out Demons, Miracles are Rejected in an End Time Christianity which accomplishes this as it Asks Christ when He Returns on ‘That Day’):
“… 21“Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father in heaven. 22MANY will say to Me in that day, ‘Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in Your name, cast out demons in Your name, and done many wonders in Your name?’ 23And then I will declare to them, ‘I NEVER KNEW YOU; depart from Me, YOU WHO PRACTICE LAWLESSNESS!’ 24“Therefore WHOEVER HEARS THESE SAYINGS OF MINE, and DOES THEM, I will liken him to a WISE MAN WHO BUILT HIS HOUSE ON THE ROCK: …” (Matthew 7:21 – 24, NKJV)
The absence of the Charity Doctrine Lifestyle may signify someone to be unsaved according to these Verses:
“… 20If someone says, “I LOVE GOD,” and HATES HIS BROTHER, HE IS A LIAR; for he who does not love his brother whom he has seen, [d]how can he love God whom he has not seen? 21And this commandment we have from Him: that HE WHO LOVES GOD MUST LOVE HIS BROTHER ALSO. …” (1 John 4:20 – 21, NKJV)
“… 17But WHOEVER HAS THIS WORLD’S GOODS, and sees his brother in need, and shuts up his heart from him, HOW DOES THE LOVE OF GOD ABIDE IN HIM? 18My little children, let us NOT LOVE in WORD or in TONGUE, but in DEED and in truth. …” (1 John 3:17 – 18, NKJV)
Alternately such ones may face possibly lesser Inheritance in the Kingdom of they hoard:
“… So is he who LAYS UP TREASURE FOR HIMSELF, and is NOT RICH TOWARD GOD. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 12:21, NKJV)
A Warning:
“… 1Come now, YOU RICH, weep and howl for your miseries that are coming upon you! 2Your riches are corrupted, and your garments are moth-eaten. 3Your GOLD and SILVER are corroded, and their corrosion will be a witness against you and will EAT YOUR FLESH LIKE FIRE. You have HEAPED up TREASURE in the LAST DAYS. … 5You have lived on the earth in PLEASURE and LUXURY; you have fattened your hearts as in a DAY of SLAUGHTER. …” – Blessed Apostle St. James the Just, First Bishop of Jerusalem (James 5:1 – 3, 5, NKJV)
Relative Measure comes in where more is given, more is required:
“… Therefore, to him who knows to do good and does not do it, to him it is sin. …” (James 4:17, NKJV)
Conclusion
So every “True Discipleship in Christianity” must teach and practice this, to quote:
“… So then, none of you can be My disciple who does not give up all his own possessions. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 14:33, NASB)
Or in another translation:
“… So likewise, whoever of you does not forsake all that he has cannot be My disciple …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 14:33, NKJV)
What is the Context for Luke 14:33 above?
Few Christians Realize that when Luke 14:33 was Spoken by Christ, He was Speaking the same Context of His ‘Charity Doctrine’ Discourses where He even mentions the ‘Special Mercy to the Poor/Maimed/Blind’ part some ‘Parabolically’ (e.g. the omitted Luke 14:26 – 30 which is the Parable explanation of this same truth, but parabolically regarding Counting the Cost to live out His Commands including this ‘Charity Doctrine Lifestyle’) as per Consecutive Verses below:
“… (12Then He also said to him who invited Him,) “When you give a dinner or a supper, do not ask your friends, your brothers, your relatives, NOR RICH NEIGHBORS, lest they also invite you back, and you be repaid. 13But when you give a feast, INVITE the POOR, THE MAIMED, THE LAME, THE BLIND. 14And you will be BLESSED, because they cannot repay you; for you shall be REPAID at the RESURRECTION OF THE JUST.” … 21So that servant came and reported these things to his master. Then the master of the house, being angry, said to his servant, ‘Go out quickly into the STREETS and LANES of the city, and bring in here the POOR and the MAIMED and the LAME and the BLIND.’ 22And the servant said, ‘Master, it is done as you commanded, and still THERE IS ROOM.’ 23Then the master said to the servant, ‘Go out into the HIGHWAYS and HEDGES, and COMPEL THEM to COME IN, that MY HOUSE MAY BE FILLED. 24For I say to you that NONE of those men who were INVITED shall taste MY SUPPER.’ ” … … So LIKEWISE, whoever of you does not forsake all that he has CANNOT BE MY DISCIPLE. …” (Luke 14:12 – 14, 21 – 24, 33, NKJV)
It looks as though the one who did the CHARITY DOCTRINE of LITERAL FEEDING OF TANGIBLE FOOD TO THE POOR ETC. was Given a Straight Ticket into Heaven by Christ Himself in Verses above as the evidenced by the phrase: “… 13But when you give a feast, INVITE the POOR, THE MAIMED, THE LAME, THE BLIND. 14And you will be BLESSED, because they cannot repay you; for you shall be REPAID at the RESURRECTION OF THE JUST.” …” (Luke 14:13 – 14, NKJV). If Christ Gives them a Straight Ticket to Heaven, who are we to say anything? This mysteriously agrees with the Judgment Day Verses too:
“… 1“Then the kingdom of heaven shall be likened to ten virgins who took their lamps and went out to meet the bridegroom. 2Now five of them were wise, and five were foolish. 3Those who were foolish took their lamps and took no oil with them, 4but the wise took oil in their vessels with their lamps. 5But while the bridegroom was delayed, they all slumbered and slept. 6“And at midnight a cry was heard: ‘Behold, the bridegroom [a]is coming; go out to meet him!’ 7Then all those virgins arose and trimmed their lamps. 8And the foolish said to the wise, ‘Give us some of your oil, for our lamps are going out.’ 9But the wise answered, saying, ‘No, lest there should not be enough for us and you; but go rather to those who sell, and buy for yourselves.’ 10And while they went to buy, the bridegroom came, and those who were ready went in with him to the wedding; and the door was shut. 11“Afterward the other virgins came also, saying, ‘Lord, Lord, open to us!’ 12But he answered and said, ‘Assuredly, I SAY TO YOU, I DO NOT KNOW YOU.’ 13“Watch therefore, for you know neither the day nor the hour [b]in which the Son of Man is coming. … 31“When the Son of Man comes in His glory, and all the [c]holy angels with Him, then He will sit on the throne of His glory. 32All the nations will be gathered before Him, and He will separate them one from another, as a shepherd divides his sheep from the goats. 33And He will set the sheep on His right hand, but the goats on the left. 34Then the King will say to those on His right hand, ‘Come, you blessed of My Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world: 35for I was hungry and you gave Me food; I was thirsty and you gave Me drink; I was a stranger and you took Me in; 36I was naked and you clothed Me; I was sick and you visited Me; I was in prison and you came to Me.’ 37“Then the righteous will answer Him, saying, ‘Lord, when did we see You hungry and feed You, or thirsty and give You drink? 38When did we see You a stranger and take You in, or naked and clothe You? 39Or when did we see You sick, or in prison, and come to You?’ 40And the King will answer and say to them, ‘Assuredly, I say to you, inasmuch as you did it to one of the least of these My brethren, you did it to Me.’ 41“Then He will also say to those on the left hand, ‘Depart from Me, you cursed, into the everlasting fire prepared for the devil and his angels: 42for I was hungry and you gave Me no food; I was thirsty and you gave Me no drink; 43I was a stranger and you did not take Me in, naked and you did not clothe Me, sick and in prison and you did not visit Me.’ 44“Then they also will answer [d]Him, saying, ‘Lord, when DID WE SEE YOU HUNGRY or THIRSTY OR A STRANGER OR NAKED OR SICK or in PRISON, and did not minister to You?’ 45Then He will answer them, saying, ‘Assuredly, I say to you, inasmuch as YOU DID NOT DO IT to one of the least of these, you DID NOT DO IT TO ME.’ 46And THESE WILL GO AWAY INTO EVERLASTING PUNISHMENT, but the righteous into eternal life.” …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 25:1 – 13, 31 – 46, NKJV)
Isn’t it strange that the only other Verse by Christ Himself which mentions to “Keep our Lamps Lit” is referring to Doing the “Charity Works” that He Commanded as that’s the only Topic or Context which Christ Was Speaking when He Taught this as follows:
“… 31“But SEEK HIS KINGDOM, and THESE THINGS will be ADDED TO YOU. 32“Do not be afraid, little flock, for your Father has chosen gladly to give you the kingdom. 33“SELL YOUR POSSESSIONS and GIVE TO CHARITY; make yourselves money belts which do not wear out, an unfailing treasure in heaven, where no thief comes near nor moth destroys. 34“For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. 35“Be dressed in readiness, and KEEP YOUR LAMPS LIT. 36You are also to be like people who are waiting for their master when he RETURNS FROM THE WEDDING FEAST, so that they may immediately open the door for him when he comes and knocks. 37Blessed are those slaves whom the master will find on the alert when he comes; truly I say to you, that he will [z]prepare himself to serve, and have them recline at the table, and he will come up and serve them. 38Whether he COMES IN THE [AA]SECOND WATCH, or EVEN IN THE [AB]THIRD, and finds them so, blessed are those slaves. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 12:31 – 38, NASB)
Comment: His Return after the “Wedding” (First Resurrection, Revelation 20:4 – 6) during the “Second and Third Watches” could also imply His Surprise Visit to Earth during Christ’s 1000 years Millennial Reign (Revelation 20:5) where verses above points to the Context of “Doing the Charity Doctrine” when understood collectively implying its importance not just now but in the future Judgment Day too as we have seen (Matthew 25:31 – 46). Whether this can also refer hope toward non-Christians is described in post in links below:
- Possible Hope for non-Christians who were Good toward Christians & the Gospel
https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=10160629881647784&id=651792783
Or
- Possible Judgment Day Hope? – Only God Knows
https://www.facebook.com/651792783/posts/10160926103007784/
“… For all the law (Torah) is fulfilled in one word, even in this: “You shall love your neighbor as yourself.” …” (Galatians 5:14, NKJV)
Here’s another interesting Gem from Holy Scripture:
Context: Many people think that parenting is among the greatest thing to do in the World to fulfill God’s Will. However, in Verse below we find Christ Comparing that “OBEYING any of HIS NEW TESTAMENT COMMANDS” (or ‘Keeping the Word of God’) as a Greater Act than even if you had the privilege of Raising “CHRIST Himself” as a “Parent” (Context):
“… 27And it happened, as He spoke these things, that a certain woman from the crowd raised her voice and said to Him, “BLESSED is the womb that BORE YOU, and the breasts which NURSED YOU!” 28But He said, “MORE THAN THAT, BLESSED are those who HEAR the WORD OF GOD and KEEP IT!” …” (Luke 11:27 – 28, NKJV)
In short, even if you were given an opportunity to ‘raise Lord Jesus as a child by providing for him meals and taking care of him’ (i.e. “nursed him”), it is still NOT AS GREAT as OBEYING HIS COMMANDS.
So the Greatest thing to Please Christ is to OBEY HIS COMMANDS. Can you please see this rarely understood but so plain CONTEXT in these Verses “as it is Written”?
So “more New Testament Commands” we can obey, the greater the “Blessedness” & especially in the Charity Doctrine, “Givers” are “more Blessed”:
“… I have shown you in every way, by laboring like this, that you must support the weak. And remember the words of the Lord Jesus, that He said, ‘It is MORE BLESSED to GIVE THAN TO RECEIVE.’ ” …” (Acts 20:35, NKJV)
True abiding in “His Love” = “Keeping or Obeying Christ’s Direct New Testament Commands by Him or His Apostles” so the opposite must imply a ‘drifting away from His Love, right?’, to quote:
“… If you KEEP MY COMMANDMENTS, you will abide in My love, just as I have kept My Father’s commandments and abide in His love. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (John 15:10, NKJV)
Last but not least, the Complete or Perfect Fulfillment of the CHARITY DOCTRINE LIFESTYLE is when we do it beyond our “family, church, race” toward “strangers, others” till including “our enemies & those who hate us too”. So the Will of the Father is to be in Action like the Father which Christ describes like this: Yes, Matthew 5:38 identifies the context as the evil person which is not a Christian. In Matthew 5:39 – 44, same consecutive Context, Christ’s Love your enemies He Says to Emulate the Father who makes the sun or rain on the “good/just” and “evil/just” implying being kind and doing good to both the Christian and non-Christian again in verses below (‘not’ opinions of men) so directly even, Verses below:
“… 38“You have heard that it was said, ‘An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth.’ [Deuteronomy 19:21 ] 39BUT I TELL YOU NOT to RESIST an EVIL PERSON. But whoever slaps you on your right cheek, turn the other to him also. 40If anyone wants to sue you and take away your tunic, let him have your cloak also. 41And whoever compels you to go one mile, go with him two. 42Give to him who asks you, and from him who wants to borrow from you do not turn away. 43“You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall love your neighbor and HATE YOUR ENEMY.’ 44[o]BUT I SAY TO YOU, LOVE YOUR ENEMIES, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you, 45that you may be SONS OF YOUR FATHER in heaven; for He makes His sun rise on the EVIL AND ON THE GOOD, and sends rain on the JUST AND ON THE UNJUST. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 5:38 – 45, NKJV)
Comment: Did you notice that in these Verses CHRIST describes the CHARITY DOCTRINE ACTS to be DONE toward ENEMIES in order to become the HEIRS OF THE KINGDOM as the SONS OF GOD? So are we SONS OF GOD by CHRIST’S COMMAND/DEFINITION?
Here’s a Biblical Secret: To obey a rare command especially when many don’t obey can merit a Great Pleasing of God and Great Rewards in His Kingdom. For example, Blessed Abraham was Rewarded and honoured greatly for obeying God and leaving his family into the unknown which may not be a big deal as some say but the thing is almost no one did that when he was living. Similarly, the “faith statement” below by the Centurion may not sound like a big deal but it’s a “faith greater than all in Israel” at that time itself simply because of “Relative Measure” where with almost no Scriptural Exposure, this Gentile Centurion exhibited such a “Great Faith”:
“… When JESUS HEARD THESE THINGS, He MARVELED at him, and turned around and said to the crowd that followed Him, “I say to you, I have NOT FOUND SUCH GREAT FAITH, NOT EVEN IN ISRAEL!” …” (Luke 7:9, NKJV)
Here’s another Secret about this Gentile Centurion’s Faith which was Greater than all Israel’s namely is that he was doing ALMSGIVING (CHARITY DOCTRINE) toward the ISRAELITES itself such as building a synagogue (without even knowing Christ’s Love your Enemies commands of Perfection, Matthew 5:38 – 45) as Verses below describe first about him which is only seen when Quoted in “full”:
“… 4And when they came to Jesus, they begged Him earnestly, saying that the one for whom He should do this was deserving, 5“for HE LOVES OUR NATION, AND HAS BUILT US A SYNAGOGUE.” 6Then Jesus went with them. And when He was already not far from the house, the centurion sent friends to Him, saying to Him, “Lord, do not trouble Yourself, for I am not worthy that You should enter under my roof. 7Therefore I did not even think myself worthy to come to You. But say the word, and my servant will be healed. 8For I also am a man placed under authority, having soldiers under me. And I say to one, ‘Go,’ and he goes; and to another, ‘Come,’ and he comes; and to my servant, ‘Do this,’ and he does it.” 9WHEN JESUS HEARD THESE THINGS, HE MARVELED at him, and turned around and said to the crowd that followed Him, “I say to you, I HAVE NOT FOUND SUCH GREAT FAITH, NOT EVEN IN ISRAEL!” …” (Luke 7:4 – 9, NKJV)
If Christ MARVELLED because of this, let’s do things that impresses Him instead of impressing Humans.
Please notice also carefully that CHRIST (God in Flesh) Himself called a FAITH GREATER THAN ISRAEL not toward a faith which converted many (like the Pharisees did as per Matthew 23:15 travelling land and sea to make converts only) but toward a Faith which had ALMSGIVING and GREAT BELIEF IN RELATIVE MEASURE as “it is Written“.
The Greatest Gift of All which we get by Obeying more of His Commands especially His Greatest Commands is this: We live in Fellowship of the Father, Son and Holt Spirit as follows:
“… 23JESUS ANSWERED and said to him, “If anyone loves Me, he will KEEP MY WORD; and MY FATHER WILL LOVE HIM, and WE WILL COME TO HIM and MAKE OUR HOME WITH HIM. 24He who does not love Me does not keep My words; and the word which you hear is not Mine but the Father’s who sent Me. … 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 THINGS THAT I SAID TO YOU. …” (John 14:23 24, 26, NKJV)
“… 13HOLD FAST The PATTERN OF SOUND WORDS which you have heard from me, in faith and love which are in Christ Jesus. 14That good thing which was committed to you, KEEP BY THE HOLY SPIRIT who dwells in us. …” (2 Timothy 1:13 – 14, NKJV)
May God Help us.
Peace to you
Mystery of Fearing God – Discerning between the Righteous and Wicked – What is God’s Definition?
Almost, every denomination of Christianity will Quote this Verse and claim that they “fear God” by following their own “not” in the Bible Rules mixed with selected New Testament Commands whilst ignoring some other commands:
“… The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom, And the knowledge of the Holy One is understanding. …” (Proverbs 9:10, NKJV)
Comments: What many modern Pentecostal Christians don’t realize that only about less than 100 years ago these New Testament Commands were challenged & disobeyed by modern Denominations while all ancient Denominations of Protestants or others never denied but obeyed say the Church Order Rules & Personal Conduct Commands of the Lord in say 1 Corinthians chapters 11 to 14 – Can you see it?
All the ancient Protestant Founders and their initial successors were Saved obeying and Preaching these Commands as it is Written. Please notify that “they” “they” (who were the earliest missionaries into unknown lands etc.) all obeyed these New Testament Commands and built the Church of Christ across various major denominations with minor variances but none denying “New Testament Commands” at least in the earliest times of “their own church history”.
So, these modern Christianity which ignores “New Testament Commands” also betrays their own Founders, right?
More Importantly, what does God Himself Define as “Fearing God”?
Conclusion
These Verses in “full”:
“… 5And I will come near you for JUDGMENT;
I will be a swift witness Against SORCERERS, Against ADULTERERS, Against PERJURERS,
Against those WHO EXPLOIT WAGE EARNERS and WIDOWS AND ORPHANS,
And against those WHO TURN AWAY AN ALIEN—
BECAUSE THEY DO NOT FEAR ME,”
SAYS THE LORD OF HOSTS. … 16Then THOSE WHO FEARED THE LORD spoke to one another,
And the Lord listened and heard them;
So a BOOK OF REMEMBRANCE was written before Him For THOSE WHO FEAR THE LORD
And who [e]meditate on His name.
17“They shall be Mine,” says the Lord of hosts,
“On the day that I make them My jewels.[f]
And I will spare them
As a man spares his own son who serves him.”
18Then you shall again DISCERN
BETWEEN THE RIGHTEOUS and THE WICKED,
Between one WHO SERVES GOD
And ONE WHO DOES NOT SERVE HIM. …” – Blessed Prophet Malachi (Malachi 3:5, 16 – 18, NKJV)
It’s very clear in the Consecutive Verses Context in Verses above that God Himself Defines that those who “fear Him” will have these “Doctrinal Traits”:
1) No Sorcerers, adulterers and perjurers
“… Against SORCERERS,
Against ADULTERERS,
Against PERJURERS, …” (Malachi 3:5, highlighted, NKJV)
2) Never exploiting people with low wage (though legal as many businesses do) just because they have racial, economic or other advantages to pay “market rate” like that which changes from one person to another according to racial preference or other unfairness
“… Against those WHO EXPLOIT WAGE EARNERS …” (Malachi 3:5, highlighted, NKJV)
3) Never mistreat widows and orphans
“… Against those WHO EXPLOIT … WIDOWS AND ORPHANS,, …” (Malachi 3:5, highlighted, NKJV)
Example: Sometimes the biggest mistreatment comes from so called orphanage home owners or staff themselves who often curse the children’s parents for being lousy or curse these orphan children by saying that they will become like their mom or dad, scream and psychologically or physically abuse them by the owner or staff beating/punishing them excessively or unfair beating etc. Can you see it?
The Opposite of this Verse means that those who “Fear God” will treat “Orphans or Widows” well which is part of the “Charity Doctrine”.
4) Never mistreat an “alien” which refers to a “foreigner” or immigrant workers or non-citizens
“… And against those WHO TURN AWAY AN ALIEN— …” (Malachi 3:5, highlighted, NKJV)
Example: Just because it’s legal to pay low rate that doesn’t mean it’s right in God’s Eyes. God Will Judge and so the best way is to always pay them what we think we would pay ourselves if we or our own children worked in their place (as our own conscience will judge us on that Day accordingly for this and so we will have “no” excuse if we secretly wanted more profits by paying low though legal).
Again, the opposite to treating a foreigner bad would be to Practice the “Charity Doctrine” toward them too.
5) Who does against these “COMMANDS” of God which proves whether we “FEAR HIM OR NOT”?
“… BECAUSE THEY DO NOT FEAR ME,” SAYS THE LORD OF HOSTS. …” (Malachi 3:5, highlighted, NKJV)
This means that doing the “Charity Doctrine” is implied clearly as being part of the Definition as to whether we “fear God” or not. Can you see it please as it is Written here in the Context of “Widows, Orphans and Foreigners” as per Malachi 3:5 above?
6) The Septuagint reads the same for these Verses:
“… 5And I will draw near to you in JUDGMENT; and I will be a sift witness against the witches, and against the adulteresses, and against them that SWEAR FALSELY BY MY NAME, and against them that KEEP BACK THE HIRELING’S WAGES, and them that OPPRESS THE WIDOW, AND AFFLICT ORPHANS, and that WREST THE JUDGMENT OF THE STRANGER, and FEAR NOT ME, SAITH THE LORD ALMIGHTY. …” (Malachi 3:5, LXX, Brenton Septuagint Translation)
Source: https://biblehub.com/sep/malachi/3.htm
Note: The phrase “… against them that SWEAR FALSELY BY MY NAME …” can also refer to those who simply claim God Said this and that but He Didn’t as Discussed in an earlier post in link below (where if some claim God told them so & if He Did, they are spared but the Safe Route Scripturally will be to “not” take these risks as discussed in post below to Honour God):
https://www.facebook.com/jonathan.ramachandran/posts/10160972404642784
In short, practising any of these sins listed in Malachi 3:5 is called by God Himself (not opinions of men) as being “… BECAUSE THEY DO NOT FEAR ME,” SAYS THE LORD OF HOSTS. …” (Malachi 3:5, highlighted, NKJV).
So, these must be the ‘fastest ways to Hell’.
Please be careful and “not” do any of these Practices even if it’s legal. For example: please charge the same rate regardless of race and give the same pay regardless of race too according to what you would pay yourself if you were hired as a “desperate worker” as this is what it means to “love neighbor as yourself” in these Context too without which we are “not” Fulfilling “All Law”, Verses:
“… For all the law (Torah) is fulfilled in one word, even in this: “You shall love your neighbor as yourself.” …” (Galatians 5:14, NKJV)
“… Therefore, whatever you want men to do to you, do also to them, for this is the Law (Torah) and the Prophets. …” (Matthew 7:12, NKJV)
“… 29JESUS answered him, “The [k]first of all the commandments is: ‘Hear, O Israel, the Lord our God, the Lord is one. 30And you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your mind, and with all your strength.’ [l]This is the first commandment. 31And the second, like it, is this: ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is NO OTHER COMMANDMENT GREATER THAN THESE.” …” (Mark 12:29 – 31, NKJV)
Yes, we cannot say we “Love God” but don’t fulfill the “fear God” Characteristics which Malachi 3:5 clearly Defines in a nutshell as follows:
“… 5And I will come near you for JUDGMENT;
I will be a swift witness
Against SORCERERS,
Against ADULTERERS,
Against PERJURERS,
Against those WHO EXPLOIT WAGE EARNERS and WIDOWS AND ORPHANS,
And against those WHO TURN AWAY AN ALIEN—
BECAUSE THEY DO NOT FEAR ME,”
SAYS THE LORD OF HOSTS. … ” (Malachi 3:5, NKJV)
There’s no translation difficulty in these Verses which can be seen by say comparing the various major translations below for this Verse alone, please compare:
New International Version
“So I will come to put you on trial. I will be quick to testify against sorcerers, adulterers and perjurers, against those who defraud laborers of their wages, who oppress the widows and the fatherless, and deprive the foreigners among you of justice, but do not fear me,” says the LORD Almighty.
New Living Translation
“At that time I will put you on trial. I am eager to witness against all sorcerers and adulterers and liars. I will speak against those who cheat employees of their wages, who oppress widows and orphans, or who deprive the foreigners living among you of justice, for these people do not fear me,” says the LORD of Heaven’s Armies.
English Standard Version
“Then I will draw near to you for judgment. I will be a swift witness against the sorcerers, against the adulterers, against those who swear falsely, against those who oppress the hired worker in his wages, the widow and the fatherless, against those who thrust aside the sojourner, and do not fear me, says the LORD of hosts.
Berean Study Bible
“Then I will draw near to you for judgment. And I will be a swift witness against sorcerers and adulterers and perjurers, against oppressors of the widowed and fatherless, and against those who defraud laborers of their wages and deny justice to the foreigner but do not fear Me,” says the LORD of Hosts.
King James Bible
And I will come near to you to judgment; and I will be a swift witness against the sorcerers, and against the adulterers, and against false swearers, and against those that oppress the hireling in his wages, the widow, and the fatherless, and that turn aside the stranger from his right, and fear not me, saith the LORD of hosts.
New American Standard Bible
“Then I will come near to you for judgment; and I will be a swift witness against the sorcerers, the adulterers, against those who swear falsely, those who oppress the wage earner in his wages or the widow or the orphan, and those who turn away the stranger from justice and do not fear Me,” says the LORD of armies.
Source:
https://biblehub.com/malachi/3-5.htm
Did you notice that in this “fear God” definition in Malachi 3:5 (entire chapter or conversation too), God never included “prayers or fasting”, why? Because one could be “praying and fasting” but not doing any “Charity Doctrine” and the Verses below clearly depict that God is “not” interested in such prayers, to quote (not my opinion ya, a Bible Verse by God Himself):
“… Why have WE FASTED,’ they say, ‘and YOU HAVE NOT SEEN? Why have WE AFFLICTED OUR SOULS, and YOU TAKE NO NOTICE?’ … You will not fast as you do this day,
To make your voice heard on high.
5Is it a fast that I have chosen,
A day for a man to afflict his soul?
Is it to bow down his head like a bulrush,
And to spread out sackcloth and ashes?
Would you call this a fast,
And an acceptable day to the Lord?
6“Is this not the fast that I have chosen:
To loose the bonds of wickedness,
To undo the [c]heavy burdens,
To let the oppressed go free, And that you break every yoke? 7Is it not to SHARE YOUR BREAD with the HUNGRY, And that you bring to your house THE POOR who are cast out; When you see THE NAKED, that you cover him, And not hide yourself from YOUR OWN FLESH? 8Then YOUR LIGHT shall break forth like the MORNING, YOUR HEALING shall spring forth speedily, And your righteousness shall go before you; The glory of the Lord shall be your rear guard. 9Then you shall call, and the Lord will answer; You shall cry, and He will say, ‘Here I am.’ …” (Isaiah 58:3, 4 – 9, NKJV)
Please don’t be Deceived and let’s Focus on what God Lists down here as what He Requires as Proof in Action to “fear Him” instead of ignoring these commands of the “Charity Doctrine Acts” to be done toward “Widows, Orphans and Foreigners” too in Malachi 3:5 itself and instead doing other things which He never defined as the meaning of “fearing Him” such as religious activities whilst ignoring these “Written” commands.
Please let us focus on “His Written Commands” and not words of prophets who contradict it:
Says Who?
God Himself in Verses below:
“… 5“Your fathers, where are they?
And the prophets, do they live forever?
6Yet surely MY WORDS AND MY STATUTES,
WHICH I COMMANDED My servants the prophets,
Did they not overtake your fathers …” (Zechariah 1:5 – 6, NKJV)
God’s MERCY and Charity Doctrine Link via Prophet Daniel
“… Wherefore, O king, let my counsel be acceptable unto thee, and BREAK OFF THY SINS BY RIGHTEOUSNESS, and THINE INIQUITIES BY SHEWING MERCY TO THE POOR; if it may be a lengthening of thy tranquillity. …” – Blessed Prophet Daniel (Daniel 4:27, KJV based on the Masoretic Text)
Source: https://biblehub.com/daniel/4-27.htm
Compare:
” … 27Therefore, O king, let my counsel please thee, and ATONE FOR THY SINS BY ALMS, and THINE INIQUITIES BY COMPASSION ON THE POOR: it may be God will be long-suffering to thy trespasses.” … – Blessed Prophet Daniel (Daniel 4:27, Brenton Septuagint Translation, based on the Septuagint or LXX)
Source: https://biblehub.com/sep/daniel/4.htm
Interestingly, Christ only Mentions ALSMGIVING/CHARITY DOCTRINE as the CURE for the LAWLESSNESS WITHIN in Verses below similar to the Daniel 4:27 Verse above which may explain why He Commanded the “Charity Doctrine” Acts toward the “Widow, Orphans and Foreigner” as part of the Definition of “Fearing God” in Malachi 3:5 itself. Can you see it as it is Written?
“… (39Then the Lord said to him), “Now you Pharisees make the OUTSIDE OF THE CUP AND DISH CLEAN, but your INWARD part is full of GREED and WICKEDNESS. 40Foolish ones! Did not He who made the outside make the INSIDE also? 41But rather GIVE ALMS [CHARITY] of SUCH THINGS AS YOU HAVE; then indeed ALL THINGS are CLEAN to you. . …” – The KING, The Holiest One, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 11:39 – 41, NKJV)
Can you really see it now please what God’s Will is when He Requires us to “Fear Him” and that it includes the “Charity Doctrine Acts” to be done toward “Widows, Orphans and Foreigners” too in Malachi 3:5 itself?
Peace to you
Sports and Secular Music Analogy – Freedom in Faith Mystery
1) Sports and Music Analogy
Does Secular Music bring Glory to God?
Similar Question: Does Sports bring Glory to God?
Another Question: Doesn’t Secular Music bring Pride?
Similar Question: Doesn’t Achievement in Secular Music or even in Business or Academics or other “Work” too bring Pride?
So if sports can bring Glory to God, Secular Music can bring Glory to God likewise for the “Same Reasons” as long as the Person who does it uses it to “DO GOOD” be it from the “Money/other benefits” which he receives from it which applies to other worldly things too such as “business achievements or financial achievements or equivalent”.
In the Famous Example below when the Bible Teaches bringing “Glory to God”, Apostle St. Paul is allowing eating food offered to Idols (if you didn’t ask about where it’s from) but prohibiting eating food offered to idols (if you know it was offered to idols) proving that “opposite acts” can be done to give Glory to God as long as we are convinced in our own mind, Verses:
“… 25Eat whatever is sold in the meat market, asking no questions for conscience’ sake; 26for “the earth is the Lord’s, and all its fullness.” 27If any of those who do not believe invites you to dinner, and you desire to go, eat whatever is set before you, asking no question for conscience’ sake. 28But if anyone says to you, “This was offered to idols,” do not eat it for the sake of the one who told you, and for conscience’ sake; [i]for “the earth is the Lord’s, and all its fullness.” 29“Conscience,” I say, not your own, but that of the other. For why is my liberty judged by another man’s conscience? 30But if I partake with thanks, why am I evil spoken of for the food over which I give thanks 31Therefore, whether you eat or drink, or WHATEVER YOU DO, DO ALL TO THE GLORY OF GOD. 32Give no offense, either to the Jews or to the Greeks or to the church of God, 33just as I also PLEASE ALL MEN IN ALL THINGS, NOT SEEKING MY OWN PROFIT, BUT THE PROFIT OF MANY, that they may be saved. …” (1 Corinthians 10:25 – 33, NKJV)
Context: So “… WHATEVER YOU DO, DO ALL TO THE GLORY OF GOD. …” (1 Corinthians 10:31) does “not” refer to “don’t eat food offered to idols” but also to the “opposite” choice of “eat or buy food offered to idols if you didn’t ask about it”. Can you see that both the “opposite” choices are allowed to “Give Glory to God” as long as you are doing it to “… PLEASE ALL MEN IN ALL THINGS, NOT SEEKING MY OWN PROFIT, BUT THE PROFIT OF MANY, that they may be saved. …” (1 Corinthians 10:33, NKJV) above? So “pleasing men” is allowed if our intention is good which is to hope for them to be “Saved” and if it BENEFITS/PROFITS MANY where God Allows these “Opposite” Choices as Verses above prove. So, it’s “not” out of Context or Twisting Scripture but rather what’s plainly described here. We only don’t please men for things which are “sin” and “direct New Testament Verses” are “against it”.
2) Freedom to have “Faith” to do things either way for some things
“… Do you have faith? Have it to yourself before God. Happy is he who does not condemn himself in what he approves. …” (Romans 14:22, NKJV)
Bible Context: The Verse above was Written in the Context of “Earthly Things” such as a choice for being a “Vegetarian” or whether one wants to celebrate the “Sabbath or Old Testament Feast Days or Sacred Days” for Christ, Verse:
“… 3Let not him who eats despise him who does not eat, and let not him who does not eat judge him who eats; for GOD HAS RECEIVED HIM. 4Who are you to judge another’s servant? To his own master he stands or falls. Indeed, he will be made to stand, for GOD IS ABLE TO MAKE HIM STAND. 5ONE PERSON ESTEEMS ONE DAY ABOVE ANOTHER; ANOTHER ESTEEMS EVERY DAY ALIKE. LET EACH BE FULLY CONVINCED IN HIS OWN MIND. 6HE WHO OBSERVES THE DAY, OBSERVES IT TO THE LORD; [A]AND HE WHO DOES NOT OBSERVE THE DAY, TO THE LORD HE DOES NOT OBSERVE IT. He who eats, eats to the Lord, for he gives God thanks; and he who does not eat, to the Lord he does not eat, and gives God thanks. 7For none of us lives to himself, and no one dies to himself. 8For if we live, we live to the Lord; and if we die, we die to the Lord. Therefore, whether we live or die, we are the Lord’s …” (Romans 14:3 – 7, NKJV)
Some people think that “SABBATH” is a must for a New Testament believer but truth is “no” early Church Leaders themselves observed it including St. Ignatius of Antioch who was a direct Disciple of Apostle St. John himself, example Quotes in link below:
This is “not” an opinion of men or out of context but what Apostle St. Paul wrote to “Gentile believers” in Verse below too confirming this “Choice of Faith” as “… 6HE WHO OBSERVES THE DAY, OBSERVES IT TO THE LORD; [A]AND HE WHO DOES NOT OBSERVE THE DAY, TO THE LORD HE DOES NOT OBSERVE IT. …” (Romans 14:6, NKJV) to apply to “Sabbath or Sunday Gatherings” too (please notice the plural Word “Sabbaths” as there is more than one type of Sabbath in “Verse” below, “not” an opinion of men):
“… 16So let NO ONE JUDGE YOU in food or in drink, or regarding a [J]FESTIVAL OR A NEW MOON OR SABBATHS, 17which are a shadow of things to come, but the [k]substance is of Christ. …” (Colossians 2:16 – 17, NKJV)
Comment: If Apostle St. Paul wanted to instruct to keep the Sabbath, he would have Written “Keep it” but he did not here. Similarly if Apostle St. Paul wanted to instruct don’t keep the Sabbath at all, he would have Written “Don’t keep it” but he did not write this either. What he wrote here is “… Let no one judge you …” Meaning that you can do it either way and “not” be judged as it’s “your choice of faith” as we see this same “choice context” allowed by Scripture regarding also the “food + drink” aspect here which is detailed out by Blessed Apostle St. Paul in Romans 14 verses earlier where for example the “Sacred Days” could be observed and not (where here “SABBATH” is explicitly mentioned) while the “food + drink” here in Colossians 2:16 is clearly mentioned as “being vegetarian or not” in Romans 14:1 – 3 below proving this “Choice Context”:
“… 1Receive one who is weak in the faith, but not to disputes over doubtful things. 2For one believes he may eat all things, but he who is weak eats only vegetables. 3Let not him who eats despise him who does not eat, and let not him who does not eat judge him who eats; for God has received him. …” (Romans 14:1 – 3, NKJV)
The Bible calls having such a “Choice” as “Faith” in Romans 14:22 and thus we are NOT contradicting the Faith by doing opposite but rather are living out the Faith according to what we approve. Can you see it please as it is Written?
3) Does Romans 14:22 apply to Sports or Secular Music?
I believe it can because it’s in the context of any “worldly thing” even which some people may consider as “unclean” as this phrase in Romans 14:14 which reads as “… NOTHING UNCLEAN OF ITSELF ...” Reveals ‘this possible Context’ as follows:
“… 14I know and am convinced by the Lord Jesus that there is NOTHING UNCLEAN OF ITSELF; but to him who considers anything to be unclean, to him it is unclean. …” (Romans 14:14, NKJV)
Another Verse which Warns of “over condemning” things as “unclean” but following “Commandments of men” (those not Written in New Testament Verses) being paranoid especially where there is an absence or lack of emphasis to do GOOD WORKS through which they DENY HIM (inclusive of the “Charity Doctrine Theology”):
“… 14not giving heed to Jewish fables and COMMANDMENTS OF MEN who turn from the truth. 15To the PURE ALL THINGS ARE PURE, but to those who are defiled and unbelieving NOTHING IS PURE; but even their mind and conscience are defiled. 16They profess to know God, BUT IN WORKS they DENY HIM, being [d]abominable, disobedient, and DISQUALIFIED FOR EVERY GOOD WORK. …” (Titus 1:14 – 16, NKJV)
4) Freedom is “not” given to disobey the “Commands of the Lord” in “New Testament Verses” either those directly by Christ or through His Apostles only to avoid “Lawlessness”
Example Verses and Warnings if we disobey say the Church Order Rules or Personal Conduct Rules in 1 Corinthians chapters 11 to 14 and beyond where the Bible also “PRAISES” those who “Keep (Obey) it”
“… that you may learn in us NOT TO THINK BEYOND WHAT IS WRITTEN, that none of you may be [c]puffed up on behalf of one against the other. … 14I do not write these things to shame you, but as my beloved children I warn you. 15For though you might have ten thousand instructors in Christ, yet you do not have many fathers; for in Christ Jesus I have begotten you through the gospel. 16Therefore I URGE YOU, IMITATE ME. 17For this reason I have sent Timothy to you, who is my beloved and faithful son in the Lord, who will remind you of my ways in Christ, as I TEACH EVERYWHERE IN EVERY CHURCH. …” (1 Corinthians 4:4, 14 – 17, NKJV)
“… 33For God is not a God of disorder but of peace—as in all the congregations of the Lord’s people … 36Or did the word of God originate with you? Or are you the only people it has reached? 37If anyone thinks they are a PROPHET or otherwise GIFTED BY THE SPIRIT, let them ACKNOWLEDGE that WHAT I AM WRITING to you is the LORD’S COMMAND. 38But if anyone IGNORES THIS, THEY WILL THEMSELVES BE IGNORED. …” (1 Corinthians 14:33, 36 – 38, NIV)
“… 15Therefore, brethren, STAND FAST AND HOLD THE TRADITIONS which you were taught, whether BY WORD OR OUR [H]EPISTLE. 16Now may our Lord Jesus Christ Himself, and our God and Father, who has loved us and given us everlasting consolation and good hope by grace, 17comfort your hearts and [i]establish you in EVERY GOOD WORD AND WORK. …” (2 Thessalonians 2:15 – 17, NKJV)
“… that you may be mindful of the words which were spoken before by the holy prophets, and of the COMMANDMENT of us, the APOSTLES OF THE LORD and SAVIOR, …” (2 Peter 3:2, NKJV)
“… 13HOLD FAST The PATTERN OF SOUND WORDS which you have heard from me, in faith and love which are in Christ Jesus. 14That good thing which was committed to you, KEEP BY THE HOLY SPIRIT who dwells in us. …” (2 Timothy 1:13 – 14, NKJV)
“… 1 IMITATE ME, just as I also IMITATE CHRIST. 2Now I PRAISE YOU, brethren, that you remember me in all things and KEEP THE TRADITIONS just as I delivered them to you. … 16But if anyone seems to be contentious, we have no such custom, nor do the churches of God. … ” (1 Corinthians 11:1 – 2, 11:16, NKJV)
An important Comment: “Out of Context” would be to try to apply the “Freedom of Faith” Verse in Romans 14:22’s Choices to disobey these New Testament Commands of the Lord (not opinions of men nor human culture, as specified in 1 Corinthians 14:37 or 2 Peter 3:2 clearly).
Why? Because these are “Commands of the Lord” (1 Corinthians 14:37, 2 Peter 3:2, 2 Timothy 1:13 – 14) and so “no” choice to “disobey it is given in Scripture” while the “Secular Music or Sports” as part of things which some may call “unclean” (so the context of Romans 14:14 or Romans 14:32 applies to “please men” so that “they may be saved”, Good Intentions) or “Food + Drink or Special Days observations” are “worldly things being a “Shadow for Christ” only depending how we use it (Colossians 2:16 – 17, Romans 14). Can you see how the “Context” is Biblically?
Regarding the claim of some modern Christianity which ignores these New Testament Commands claiming that God Spoke to them Personally to ignore it, we don’t judge them but certainly we don’t agree with them either preferring to follow the Safe Route Scripturally which is to try to obey and Teach these Commands as it is Written toward anyone who is willing to obey it too by Choice without forcing anyone or ridiculing anyone who does the opposite letting God Alone to do the Judging on that Day (Matthew 7:1 – 3).
Here is Romans 14:22 in a few Translations:
New International Version
So whatever you believe about these things keep between yourself and God. Blessed is the one who does not condemn himself by what he approves.
New Living Translation
You may believe there’s nothing wrong with what you are doing, but keep it between yourself and God. Blessed are those who don’t feel guilty for doing something they have decided is right.
English Standard Version
The faith that you have, keep between yourself and God. Blessed is the one who has no reason to pass judgment on himself for what he approves.
Berean Study Bible
Keep your belief about such matters between yourself and God. Blessed is the one who does not condemn himself by what he approves.
Berean Literal Bible
The faith that you have, keep to yourself before God. Blessed is the one not judging himself in what he approves.
King James Bible
Hast thou faith? have it to thyself before God. Happy is he that condemneth not himself in that thing which he alloweth.
New American Standard Bible
The faith which you have, have as your own conviction before God. Happy is the one who does not condemn himself in what he approves.
Source: https://biblehub.com/romans/14-22.htm
5) Other Reasons with Bible Verses are already discussed in posts in links below regarding this Topic
- i) Great Write Up on Secular Music and Christianity
https://www.facebook.com/651792783/posts/10160988308947784/
- ii) Can Christians Sing Secular Songs?
https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=10160980026302784&id=651792783
Conclusion
“… 14I know and am convinced by the Lord Jesus that THERE IS NOTHING UNCLEAN OF ITSELF; but TO HIM WHO CONSIDERS ANYTHING TO BE UNCLEAN, TO HIM IT IS UNCLEAN. 15Yet if your brother is grieved because of your food, YOU ARE NO LONGER WALKING IN LOVE. Do not destroy with your food the one for whom Christ died. 16Therefore DO NOT LET YOUR GOOD BE SPOKEN OF AS EVIL; 17for the kingdom of God is not eating and drinking, but righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit. 18For he who SERVES CHRIST IN [E]THESE THINGS IS ACCEPTABLE TO GOD and APPROVED BY MEN. 19Therefore let us pursue the things which make for peace and the things by which one may [f]edify another. 20Do not destroy the work of God for the sake of food. ALL THINGS INDEED ARE PURE, but it is evil for the man who eats with [g]offense. 21It is good neither to eat meat nor drink wine nor do anything by which your brother stumbles [h]or is offended or is made weak. 22[i]DO YOU HAVE FAITH? Have it to yourself before God. HAPPY IS HE WHO DOES NOT CONDEMN HIMSELF IN WHAT HE APPROVES. 23But he who doubts is condemned if he eats, because he does not eat from faith; for wh atever is not from faith is [j]sin. …” (Romans 14:14 – 23, NKJV)
Peace to you
Safe Route Scripturally – Loss of Salvation Vs Loss of Rewards Mystery
Bible Logic: No one is condemned unless a Bible Verse Condemns that Act. A Man made rule does not imply that it’s God’s Rule. Some people simply quote “Judgment Verses” on Topics or issues which the “Original Bible Verses” was “not” even talking about. Please handle the Word of God carefully as the best way is to quote what is Written to the Topic to which it is addressed without adding nor removing:
“… Do not add to His words, Lest He rebuke you, and you be found a liar. …” (Proverbs 30:6, NKJV)
This is why the Doctrine of Sanctification as Obedience to His “Written New Testament Word” is important for “His Church”:
“… just as Christ also loved the church and gave Himself for her, 26that He MIGHT [G]SANCTIFY and CLEANSE HER WITH THE WASHING OF WATER by THE WORD, 27that He might present her to Himself a glorious church, not having spot or wrinkle or any such thing, but that she should be holy and without blemish. …” (Ephesians 5:25 – 27, NKJV)
Please be very careful of any Christianity which does “not” Preach His Written New Testament Commands and converts many by keeping some Commands whilst ignoring other Commands as it doesn’t fully fulfill the Great Commission’s “… 20TEACHING THEM TO OBSERVE ALL THINGS THAT I HAVE COMMANDED YOU …” part, Verses:
“… 18And JESUS CAME AND SPOKE TO THEM, saying, “All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. 19Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20TEACHING THEM TO OBSERVE ALL THINGS THAT I HAVE COMMANDED YOU; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” Amen. …” (Matthew 28:18 – 20, NKJV)
“… 13MAKING THE WORD OF GOD OF NO EFFECT THROUGH YOUR TRADITION which you have handed down. And many such things you do.” …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 7:13, NKJV)
Yes, there are two types of sin:
“… 16If anyone sees his brother sinning a sin which does not lead to death, he will ask, and He will give him life for those who commit sin not leading to death. There is sin leading to death. I do not say that he should pray about that. 17All unrighteousness is sin, and there is sin not leading to death. …” (1 John 5:16 – 17, NKJV)
Bible Study Tip: May God Help us to Quote Verses in “Full” and apply it to the “Topics” He Was Talking about when these Verses were Written and not simply quote a Judgment Verse for something which we think is a sin but God Never Condemned it directly in any Verse, for example singing secular music as it was discussed in an earlier post in link below with direct “Bible Verses” (not opinions nor interpretations):
https://www.facebook.com/651792783/posts/10160980026302784/
1) Losing Salvation type of Sin
“… 23Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for He who promised is faithful. 24And let us consider one another in order to STIR UP LOVE AND GOOD WORKS, 25NOT FORSAKING THE ASSEMBLING OF OURSELVES TOGETHER, as is the manner of some, but exhorting one another, and so much the more as you see the Day approaching. 26For IF WE SIN WILLFULLY AFTER WE HAVE RECEIVED THE KNOWLEDGE OF THE TRUTH, there no longer remains a sacrifice for sins, 27but a CERTAIN FEARFUL EXPECTATION OF JUDGMENT, and FIERY INDIGNATION which will devour the adversaries. 28Anyone who has rejected Moses’ law dies without mercy on the testimony of two or three witnesses. 29Of how much worse punishment, do you suppose, will he be thought worthy who has trampled the Son of God underfoot, counted the blood of the covenant by WHICH HE WAS SANCTIFIED a common thing, and insulted the Spirit of grace? 30For we know Him who said, “Vengeance is Mine, I will repay,” [g]says the Lord. And again, “THE LORD WILL JUDGE HIS PEOPLE.” 31It is a FEARFUL THING to fall into the hands of the living God. …” (Hebrews 10:23 – 31, NKJV)
What do these Verses mean?
This means that the “Willful Sinning” leads to “Condemnation” and those who are being “Sanctified” will exhibit “Good Works” whenever they meet as a “Church” (where a Church is even if it’s only two or three people gathering in His Name as He Said in Matthew 18:20). Please notice carefully these words in Verses above Describing the “Saved” namely “… STIR UP LOVE AND GOOD WORKS, 25NOT FORSAKING THE ASSEMBLING OF OURSELVES TOGETHER … so much the more as you see the Day approaching. … WHICH HE WAS SANCTIFIED …” referring to:
- Do Good Works
- Meet with Believers
- The Day refers to the Second Coming of Christ
Point 2) Elaborated regarding the meaning of “… 25NOT FORSAKING THE ASSEMBLING OF OURSELVES TOGETHER, …” may thus be elaborated based on Acts 2:42 – 46 as “Daily” they “broke bread” together (meaning most likely Holy Communion) as they lived in common houses sharing in a “Daily” manner as opposed to ‘once in a week Saturday/Sunday Church meeting these days’. So the Context is not Church as per the building (as that didn’t exist) but meet-ups in the Temple and more so meet-ups from “house to house” in common living by sharing in common with other believers:
“… 42And they continued steadfastly in the apostles’ [n] DOCTRINE and FELLOWSHIP, in the BREAKING OF BREAD, AND IN PRAYERS. 43Then fear came upon every soul, and many wonders and signs were done through the apostles. 44Now ALL WHO BELIEVED WERE TOGETHER, and HAD ALL THINGS IN COMMON, 45and [o]sold their possessions and goods, and divided[p] them among all, as anyone had need.46So CONTINUING DAILY with one accord in the TEMPLE, and BREAKING BREAD FROM HOUSE TO HOUSE, they ate their food with gladness and simplicity of heart, 47praising God and having favor with all the people. And the Lord added [q]to the CHURCH DAILY those who were being saved. …” (Acts 2:42 – 47, NKJV)
Let Scripture interpret Scripture.
“… 25NOT FORSAKING THE ASSEMBLING OF OURSELVES TOGETHER …” (Hebrews 10:25) = “… DOCTRINE and FELLOWSHIP, in the BREAKING OF BREAD, AND IN PRAYERS. … ALL WHO BELIEVED WERE TOGETHER, and HAD ALL THINGS IN COMMON, … 46So CONTINUING DAILY with one accord in the TEMPLE, and BREAKING BREAD FROM HOUSE TO HOUSE, … the Lord added [q]to the CHURCH DAILY those who were being saved. …” (Acts 2:42 – 47, highlighted parts).
So any Church Gathering of Assembling together but if there is NO GOOD WORKS of SHARING LITERAL EARTHLY GOODS in some way is NOT FULFILLING these set of Verses, to repeat for emphasis please consider (and please don’t be deceived against what is Written):
“… 23Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for He who promised is faithful. 24And let us consider one another in order to STIR UP LOVE AND GOOD WORKS, 25NOT FORSAKING THE ASSEMBLING OF OURSELVES TOGETHER, as is the manner of some, but exhorting one another, and so much the more as you see the Day approaching. …” (Hebrews 10:23 – 25, NKJV)
Next focus: His Holiness Commands:
“… 9Do you not know that the unrighteous will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived. Neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor [b]homosexuals, nor [c]sodomites, 10nor thieves, NOR COVETOUS, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners will inherit the kingdom of God. 11And SUCH WERE SOME OF YOU. BUT YOU WERE WASHED, but YOU WERE [D]SANCTIFIED, but you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus and by the Spirit of our God. …” (1 Corinthians 6:9 – 11, NKJV)
How do we know if we are COVETOUS (“loving money”) or not? Christ Says as follows:
“…9Here’s the lesson: USE YOUR WORLDLY RESOURCES to BENEFIT OTHERS AND MAKE FRIENDS. Then, when your possessions are gone, they will welcome you to an ETERNAL HOME. 10“If you are faithful in little things, you will be faithful in large ones. But if you are dishonest in little things, you won’t be honest with greater responsibilities. 11And IF YOU ARE UNTRUSTWORTHY ABOUT WORLDLY WEALTH, who will trust you with the TRUE RICHES OF HEAVEN? 12And if you are not faithful with other people’s things, why should you be trusted with things of your own? …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 16:9 – 12, NLT)
The Inspired Author of the “Sola Fide” (Saved by Grace and Faith Alone) Blessed Apostle St. Paul himself DID THESE ALMSGIVING & CHARITY DOCTRINE ACTS for PURIFICATION (“SANCTIFICATION”) and so these are “not” Contradictory to the “Work of Christ” but is when we let “Christ Live in us in Action to do God’s Will”, Verses:
“… 14But this I confess to you, that according to the Way which they call a sect, so I WORSHIP THE GOD OF MY FATHERS, BELIEVING ALL THINGS which are WRITTEN IN THE LAW AND IN THE PROPHETS. 15I have hope in God, which they themselves also accept, that there will be a resurrection [e]of the dead, both of the just and the unjust. 16This being so, I myself always strive to have a conscience without offense toward God and men. 17“NOW AFTER MANY YEARS I CAME to BRING ALMS AND OFFERINGS TO MY NATION, 18in the midst of which some Jews from Asia FOUND ME PURIFIED IN THE TEMPLE, neither with a mob nor with tumult. 19They ought to have been here before you to object if they had anything against me. 20Or else let those who are here themselves say [f]if they found any wrongdoing in me while I stood before the council, 21unless it is for this one statement which I cried out, standing among them, ‘Concerning the resurrection of the dead I am being judged by you this day.’ ” …” – Blessed St. Paul the Great Apostle of Christ (Acts of the Apostles, 24:14 – 21, NKJV)
More importantly, 1 Corinthians 6:9 – 11 above or even Hebrews 10:23 – 31 earlier speak of those who are SANCTIFIED, and the only Act that is Spoken as SANCTIFICATION FROM WITHIN is ALMS = CHARITY for DOCTRINE OF SANCTIFICATION too, by CHRIST HIMSELF, Verses:
“… 39Then the Lord said to him, “Now you Pharisees make the OUTSIDE OF THE CUP and DISH CLEAN, but YOUR INWARD PART is full of [k]GREED and WICKEDNESS. 40FOOLISH ones! Did not He who made the outside make the inside also? 41But rather GIVE ALMS of [l]SUCH THINGS AS YOU HAVE; then indeed ALL THINGS ARE CLEAN TO YOU. 42“But woe to you Pharisees! For you tithe mint and rue and all manner of herbs, and pass by JUSTICE and the LOVE of GOD These you ought to have done, without leaving the others undone. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 11:39 – 45, NKJV)
Please note that Christ Commands to “Give to CHARITY/ALMS” from “WHAT YOU HAVE” to achieve this INNER SANCTIFICATION (and not doing Charity from Donation Money without including one’s own money as the Pharisees did). Please notice that if this condition of “… Give Alms from WHAT YOU HAVE …” is not important, then why is Christ Stressing it out so clearly in Verses above?
Please remember that Christ Clearly Identifies that all “Hypocritical Outward Holiness” will be missing one and only one trait only which is it will be missing the Charity Doctrine as it’s Described clearly in Verses below (and “not” my opinion nor the opinion of men):
“… 25“Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you CLEANSE THE OUTSIDE OF THE CUP and dish, but INSIDE THEY ARE FULL OF EXTORTION and [l]SELF-INDULGENCE. 26Blind Pharisee, first cleanse the inside of the cup and dish, that the outside of them may be clean also. 27“Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you are like WHITEWASHED TOMBS which indeed appear BEAUTIFUL OUTWARDLY, but inside are full of dead men’s bones and all uncleanness. 28Even so you also OUTWARDLY APPEAR RIGHTEOUS TO MEN, but INSIDE YOU ARE FULL OF HYPOCRISY AND LAWLESSNESS. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 23:25 – 28, NKJV)
Did you notice the dangerous word “LAWLESSNESS INSIDE” toward which “MANY” Christians may be Denied too as per Verses below (both by Christ)?
“… 21“Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father in heaven. 22MANY will say to Me in that day, ‘Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in Your name, cast out demons in Your name, and done many wonders in Your name?’ 23And then I will declare to them, ‘I NEVER KNEW YOU; depart from Me, YOU WHO PRACTICE LAWLESSNESS!’ 24“Therefore WHOEVER HEARS THESE SAYINGS OF MINE, and DOES THEM, I will liken him to a WISE MAN WHO BUILT HIS HOUSE ON THE ROCK: …” (Matthew 7:21 – 24, NKJV)
Example: Christians who sing secular music hardly go around doing “Prophecy, Cast out demons & Miracles in His Name” and so these Verses does not refer to them but to an “Endtime Popular Christianity” (which exists till Christ Returns). The Reason they’re Denied (Parable of the 10 Foolish Virgins too in Matthew 25:1 to 13) is clearly revealed in Matthew 7:24 which is NOT TEACHING and NOT DOING CHRIST’S NEW TESTAMENT COMMANDS.
So, please avoid teaching against Written Verses as we may be stopping God’s Cleansing Act and also making them transgress “His Commands” even with “many converts” it’s like making “many to transgress” and “break His New Testament Commands” instead of teaching them to obey it as per Warning by Christ Himself in Verses below:
“… 19Whoever therefore BREAKS one of the LEAST of THESE COMMANDMENTS, and TEACHES men so, shall be called LEAST in the kingdom of HEAVEN; but whoever DOES AND TEACHES them, he shall be called GREAT in the kingdom of HEAVEN. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 5:19, NKJV)
The “First and Last” Ranking of His Kingdom links to being “Least or Greatest” in His Kingdom which is closely related to “doing and teaching” His New Testament “Commands” not Prophecy interpretation, flat earth vs spherical earth or other things (as Matthew 5:19 above Describe Clearly – can you see it?).
“… 5And also if anyone competes in athletics, he is NOT CROWNED unless he COMPETES ACCORDING to THE RULES. … 14REMIND them of THESE THINGS, charging them before the Lord not to [d]strive about words to no profit, to the RUIN OF THE HEARERS. … ” (2 Timothy 2:5, 14, NKJV)
A random converting Christianity by loosening God’s New Testament Rules may “not” be crowned much as per Verse above too. He already Promised to “Write His New testament Rules” for this “New Covenant” in our “Hearts and Minds” as per Prophecy below (so please be very careful of any conversion of Christianity which does “not” focus on Teaching His “New testament Commands”*):
“… 14For by ONE OFFERING HE HAS PERFECTED forever those who are being [d]SANCTIFIED. 15But the Holy Spirit also witnesses to us; for after He had said before, 16“This is THE COVENANT that I will make with them after those days, says the Lord: I WILL PUT MY LAWS INTO THEIR HEARTS, and in THEIR MINDS I WILL WRITE THEM,” 17then He adds, “Their sins and their lawless deeds I will remember no more.” 18Now where there is [e]remission of these, there is no longer an offering for sin. …” (Hebrews 10:14 – 17, NKJV)
In Verses above Describing Christ’s Atonement, it’s clearly Written that the Doctrine of “Sanctification” follows as an Act of “making them Perfect” as Christ Leads them as the True Meaning of the Ancient Verse of being “Born Again” (spiritually) having “His Law Written in out hearts & minds” for the “New Covenant”.
*New Testament Commands because many of the Old Testament Commands do “not” apply anymore since Christ’s First Advent in the Flesh has Fulfilled it, Verse:
“… In that He says, “ A NEW COVENANT,” He has MADE THE FIRST OBSOLETE. Now what is becoming obsolete and growing old is ready TO VANISH AWAY. …” (Hebrews 8:13, NKJV)
So, please focus on Teaching any of CHRIST’S DIRECT NEW TESTAMENT COMMANDS and His New Testament Commands through His Apostles, example: 1 Corinthians chapters 11 to 14 & many others, Verses:
“… that you may be mindful of the words which were spoken before by the holy prophets, and of the COMMANDMENT of us, the APOSTLES OF THE LORD and SAVIOR, …” (2 Peter 3:2, NKJV)
“… 1 IMITATE ME, just as I also IMITATE CHRIST. 2Now I PRAISE YOU, brethren, that you remember me in all things and KEEP THE TRADITIONS just as I delivered them to you. … 16But if anyone seems to be contentious, we have no such custom, nor do the churches of God. … ” (1 Corinthians 11:1 – 2, 11:16, NKJV)
Yes, please never go BEYOND WHAT IS WRITTEN and TEACH the SAME NEW TESTAMENT COMMANDS that are WRITTEN in EVERY CHURCH EVERYWHERE (as these Verses imply as it is Written):
“… that you may learn in us NOT TO THINK BEYOND WHAT IS WRITTEN, that none of you may be [c]puffed up on behalf of one against the other. … 14I do not write these things to shame you, but as my beloved children I warn you. 15For though you might have ten thousand instructors in Christ, yet you do not have many fathers; for in Christ Jesus I have begotten you through the gospel. 16Therefore I URGE YOU, IMITATE ME. 17For this reason I have sent Timothy to you, who is my beloved and faithful son in the Lord, who will remind you of my ways in Christ, as I TEACH EVERYWHERE IN EVERY CHURCH. …” (1 Corinthians 4:4, 14 – 17, NKJV)
These are the “Lord’s Command” (and not opinions of men):
“… 33For God is not a God of disorder but of peace—as in all the congregations of the Lord’s people … 36Or did the word of God originate with you? Or are you the only people it has reached? 37If anyone thinks they are a PROPHET or otherwise GIFTED BY THE SPIRIT, let them ACKNOWLEDGE that WHAT I AM WRITING to you is the LORD’S COMMAND. 38But if anyone IGNORES THIS, THEY WILL THEMSELVES BE IGNORED. …” (1 Corinthians 14:33, 36 – 38, NIV)
“… 15Therefore, brethren, STAND FAST AND HOLD THE TRADITIONS which you were taught, whether BY WORD OR OUR [H]EPISTLE. 16Now may our Lord Jesus Christ Himself, and our God and Father, who has loved us and given us everlasting consolation and good hope by grace, 17comfort your hearts and [i]establish you in EVERY GOOD WORD AND WORK. …” (2 Thessalonians 2:15 – 17, NKJV)
In other words, you are working hard for ministry which is good but please make sure that it’s not works of “wood , hay or straw” as these Verses define and warn. Please notice that if the works of “wood , hay or straw” meant living unholy, then you are claiming that even adulterers, murderers etc. can be saved by fire. If that’s true, the same must apply to ignoring other New testament Commands too as the works of “wood, hay or straw”, right? So regardless the burnable works of “wood , hay or straw” must definitely refer to ‘teaching against New Testament Commands’. Works of “wood, hay or straw” cannot refer to “low quality good works” because good works will remain whilst these are described in materials that when burnt in fire, they cease to be. However, since Salvation is not by Works but by Faith of Jesus Christ, such ones will still “be Saved but through Fire” on “that Day” (indicating the Judgment Day Time & Lake of Fire Context meant clearly) in Verses below as “it is Written”:
“… 8Now he who plants and he who waters are one, and each one will receive his own reward according to his own labor. 9For we are God’s fellow workers; YOU ARE GOD”S FIELD, you are God’s building. … 12Now if anyone builds on this foundation with …, wood, hay, straw, 13each one’s work will become clear; FOR THE DAY WILL DECLARE IT, because IT WILL BE REVEALED BY FIRE and the fire will test each one’s work, of what sort it is. 1 … 15If anyone’s work is burned, he will suffer loss; but HE HIMSELF WILL BE SAVED, YET SO AS THROUGH FIRE. …” (1 Corinthians 3:11 – 15, NKJV)
God is Looking for Ability to Obey His Commands and not Availability to do it “without knowledge” of His New Testament Verses because the Verse below does NOT PRAISE a ZEAL for GOD UNLESS IT IS ACORDING TO KNOWLGEDGE (which is most perfect in “New Testament Verses” – please always ask, if I teach or do this thing, which “New Testament Verse” am I fulfilling?), Verse:
“… For I bear them witness that they have a ZEAL FOR GOD, but NOT ACCORDING TO KNOWLEDGE. …” (Romans 10:2, NKJV)
Comment: Please don’t ‘over condemn other Christians’ especially when “no direct Bible Verse” Speaks or condemns an act which another Christian may do (for example: Secular Music) because even if they are wrong, they may be Saved as per Verses above but more importantly, you may also find yourself in hard Judgment equivalently for not obeying actual New Testament Verses disobeying which is attached with much greater warnings such as disobeying Church Order and Personal Conduct Commands in 1 Corinthians Chapters 11 to 14:
“… 1“JUDGE[A] NOT, that YOU BE NOT JUDGED. 2For with what [b]judgment you judge, you will be judged; and with the measure you use, it will be measured back to you. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 7:1 – 2, NKJV)
2) Losing Rewards type of sin
Can Roman Catholics and Orthodox be Saved from a Protestant Viewpoint?
The main thing Protestants differ from Roman Catholics and Orthodox Christianity is in the area of “praying to Virgin Mary, Saints and Angels” together with the idols associated with it. Generally protestants agree that other Roman Catholic doctrinal error may “not” affect Salvation but an error in this area can cause them to be “unsaved” too.
So, is there Biblical Hope for them if the Protestants are right? (Personally, I am a Protestant).
It’s “Possible” based on this Verse:
“… Let no one cheat you of your reward, taking delight in false humility and worship of angels, intruding into those things which he has not seen, vainly puffed up by his fleshly mind, …” (Colossians 2:18, NKJV)
Please allow me to repeat it with emphasis:
“… Let NO ONE CHEAT YOU of YOUR REWARD, taking delight in false humility and WORSHIP OF ANGELS, intruding into those things which he has not seen, vainly puffed up by his fleshly mind, …” (Colossians 2:18, NKJV)
Please take note that “Worshipping Angels” is worse than “Praying to Angels”. But even then the loss described in Verse above is ‘not necessarily Salvation’ but a ‘LOSS of [Heavenly] REWARD’. I do not see that the phrase of losing a reward is losing one’s Salvation. I could be wrong but so far I see the Verse implying a possible Salvation but a certain loss of Reward for “Worshipping Angels”.
So, if “Worshipping Angels” only causes a Christian to lose their heavenly reward and not their Salvation (as that’s most likely the meaning here), then “praying to Angels/Mary” likewise might be a smaller error compared to this and hence may result in a loss of reward likewise too (Matthew 5:19 Speak of Heavenly Gradation due to keeping Vs breaking His Commands).
I am NOT encouraging what I believe to be the error of praying to/worshipping angels or equivalent, but also want to be careful “not” to condemn beyond what the Bible Verse Speaks in this Context. So, best is, let God Decide but personally, I see hope for their Salvation but also loss of rewards for erring in these areas if they get the “Love God & Love your neighbor” part right (The Two Greatest Commands, Mark 12:30 – 34).
3) What the Gospel Work is
Now the Parables of Christ clearly relate to faith and works only. Hence it’s sufficient to devote our time to understand that. Please also note that His Parables (the context for ‘seeing and not perceive’ or ‘hearing and not understand’) does “not” relate to Apologetics nor to arguments of Creationism vs Science (e.g. flat earth vs spherical earth) and hence should not be quoted for those. If someone says otherwise, for example: can someone please show which Parable of Christ Speaks of the understanding of Flat Earth vs Spherical Earth? I know so far no one is claiming such a context and thus want to make it clear that this all points to one thing: To Understand and Do the “Charity Doctrine” to “Love God and Love Neighbor” as all Parables of Christ Relate to this in regards to “Gospel Preaching” & “Kind Deeds (Good Works)”.
Not all righteous men are found inside the Church nor all who are appointed as Bishops/Pastors are good either as St. Clement Reveals below:
“… We are of opinion, therefore, that those appointed by them, or afterwards by other eminent men, with the consent of the whole Church, and who have blame-lessly served the flock of Christ in a humble, peaceable, and disinterested spirit, and have for a long time possessed the good opinion of all, cannot be justly dismissed from the ministry. FOR OUR SIN WILL NOT BE SMALL, if we eject from the episcopate those who have blamelessly and holily fulfilled its duties. Blessed are those presbyters who, having finished their course before now, have obtained a fruitful and perfect departure [from this world]; for they have no fear lest any one deprive them of the place now appointed them. But WE SEE THAT YOU HAVE REMOVED SOME MEN OF EXCELLENT BEHAVIOUR FROM THE MINISTRY, WHICH THEY FULFILLED BLAMELESSLY and WITH HONOUR. Ye are fond of contention, brethren, and FULL OF ZEAL ABOUT THINGS which DO NOT PERTAIN TO SALVATION. LOOK CAREFULLY INTO THE SCRIPTURES, which are the TRUE UTTERANCES OF THE HOLY SPIRIT. Observe that nothing of an unjust or counterfeit character is written in them. …” – Blessed St. Clement of Rome, an Apostolic Father being a direct Disciple of the Blessed Apostle St. Peter (c.35 AD – c. 99 AD, 1 Clement, Chapter 44 – 45)
Source: http://www.earlychristianwritings.com/text/1clement-roberts.html
Can you understand it? If you read especially the CAPITALIZED parts above it’s easy to see that St. Clement of Rome mentions that it’s not uncommon for true Godly men be evicted out of the Church’s Ministry and support is given instead to Pastors/Leaders who are full of zeal to talk about “worldly things” or “speak against Bible Verses to support human culture or such vanities”. So he exhorts the True Believers to stick to what is Written in Holy Scripture (1 Corinthians 14:37, 2 Peter 3:2) and not waste time on things that do “not” pertain to Salvation such as the ‘Prosperity Gospel’ , ‘Human Culture’ and even whether the ‘earth is Spherical/Flat’ etc.
Please note this quote from the above which puts a Great Sin if we reject truly worthy leaders whom the local Church ought to have supported and instead of the Church focused instead also on matters which are not important to Salvation as St. Clement Warns, “… FOR OUR SIN WILL NOT BE SMALL, if we eject from the episcopate those who have blamelessly and holily fulfilled its duties. … But WE SEE THAT YOU HAVE REMOVED SOME MEN OF EXCELLENT BEHAVIOUR FROM THE MINISTRY, WHICH THEY FULFILLED BLAMELESSLY and WITH HONOUR. Ye are fond of contention, brethren, and FULL OF ZEAL ABOUT THINGS which DO NOT PERTAIN TO SALVATION. …”.
So what happened to those ‘righteous men’ who were cast off from their own Church or not supported to serve in Ministry?
The “Prophecy” below may explain their way which is by St. Clement of Rome himself:
“… Who then among you is NOBLE-MINDED? who compassionate? who FULL OF LOVE? Let him declare, “IF ON MY ACCOUNT SEDITION and DISAGREEMENT AND SCHISMS HAVE ARISEN, I WILL DEPART, I WILL GO AWAY whithersoever you desire, and I WILL DO WHATEVER THE MAJORITY COMMANDS; only let the flock of Christ live on terms of peace with the presbyters set over it.” HE THAT ACTS THUS SHALL PROCURE TO HIMSELF GREAT GLORY IN THE LORD; and EVERY PLACE WILL WELCOME HIM. For “the earth is the Lord’s, and the fulness thereof.” These things they WHO LIVE A GODLY LIFE, that is NEVER TO BE REPENTED OF, BOTH HAVE DONE AND ALWAYS WILL DO. … ” – Blessed St. Clement of Rome, an Apostolic Father being a direct Disciple of the Blessed Apostle St. Peter (c.35 AD – c. 99 AD, 1 Clement Chapter 54)
Source: http://www.earlychristianwritings.com/text/1clement-roberts.html
This is the main reason why ‘we don’t believe in forming our own church even if we are right’ but as Blessed St. Clement of Rome commands in his apostolic authority, “… I will do whatever the majority commands …” even if it includes being kicked out of the church, i.e. “… If on my account sedition and disagreement and schisms have arisen, I will depart, I will go away whithersoever you desire …” as long as the Majority of Christians is happy [i.e. “… only let the flock of Christ live on terms of peace with the presbyters set over it …”] & this is not in reference of a heretic being put off from a Church but is referring to a True Christian as “… These things they who live a godly life, that is never to be repented of, both have done and always will do …” because these belong to “… Who then among you is noble-minded? who compassionate? who full of love? …” where their reward of leaving Church is not eternal hell but amazingly, “… He that acts thus shall procure to himself great glory in the Lord; and every place will welcome him …” .
Since St. Clement of Rome’s name is surely in the “Book of Life” (especially since Philippians 4:3 points to most likely him whilst he was still living), I would prefer to Believe, Preach and do the best I can do Practice his quotes which makes the Bible Verses quoted to be more accurately understood.
Conclusion
Relative Measure comes into play where the thief on the cross was Saved without letting Christ Live in Him beyond the Confession of Faith as he cannot do anything anymore. So if a Confession of Faith is all that you can afford, relative measure puts you in a pinnacle of faith likewise if the Gift of Faith is granted to you. In all other cases (for example if you are given a bigger church or audience), Christ has Warned of Judgment in that “… More is Given, more is Required …” (Luke 12:46 – 48). If works are not important, Christ Wouldn’t be judging these Servants because they “believe already” also in Luke 12:46 – 48.
“… [1And He looked up and saw the rich putting their gifts into the treasury, 2and He saw also a certain poor widow putting in two mites.[a] 3So He said], “TRULY I say to you that this POOR widow has put in MORE THAN ALL; 4for all these out of their abundance have put in offerings [b]for God, but she OUT OF HER POVERTY PUT IN ALL THE LIVELIHOOD THAT SHE HAD.” …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 21:1 – 4, NKJV)
Comment: I repeat, God doesn’t look at the result nor the amount of giving but your love & relative measure which makes it ‘fair to all’ (as God has no Partiality) as the widow who gave only two coins which probably couldn’t feed any still gave more than all including the Rich’s giving which had tangible effects in comparison.
The case of the poor Widow and her two coins has proven that God Measures Relatively and so a big numbers of believers could be a big group of Thirty fold while a small group may be of sixty & Hundredfold fruits according to the Level of Fruits of the Spirit one Practices (which are “Virtues”) as Christ Himself Points to only 12 such highest converts among the “Hundredfold” who will achieve such high level renunciation and living for the Gospel Commands by doing any one or more of these “Renunciation” Acts, Verses:
“… 27Then Peter answered and said to Him, “See, we have LEFT ALL and FOLLOWED YOU. Therefore what shall we have?” 28So Jesus said to them, “Assuredly I say to you, that in the REGENERATION, when the Son of Man sits on the throne of His glory, you who have followed Me will also sit on TWELVE THRONES, judging the twelve tribes of Israel. 29And EVERYONE who has LEFT HOUSES or brothers or sisters or father or mother or WIFE or children or LANDS, for MY NAME’S SAKE, shall RECEIVE a HUNDREDFOLD, and INHERIT ETERNAL LIFE. 30But MANY who are FIRST will be LAST, and the LAST FIRST. …” (Matthew 19:27 – 30, NKJV)
The “GOSPEL of RENUNCIATION” determines the “FIRST and the LAST” as Verses above (Matthew 19:30) Clearly Describe this Heavenly Ranking by CHRIST’S OWN WORDS (please also notice the word “Hundredfold” carefully in Matthew 19:29 above too). So every “True Discipleship in Christianity” must teach and practice this, to quote:
“… So then, none of you can be My disciple who does not give up all his own possessions. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 14:33, NASB)
Or in another translation:
“… So likewise, whoever of you does not forsake all that he has cannot be My disciple …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 14:33, NKJV)
What is the Context for Luke 14:33 above?
Few Christians Realize that when Luke 14:33 was Spoken by Christ, He was Speaking the same Context of His ‘Charity Doctrine’ Discourses where He even mentions the ‘Special Mercy to the Poor/Maimed/Blind’ part some ‘Parabolically’ (e.g. the omitted Luke 14:26 – 30 which is the Parable explanation of this same truth, but parabolically regarding Counting the Cost to live out His Commands including this ‘Charity Doctrine Lifestyle’) as per Consecutive Verses below:
“… (12Then He also said to him who invited Him,) “When you give a dinner or a supper, do not ask your friends, your brothers, your relatives, NOR RICH NEIGHBORS, lest they also invite you back, and you be repaid. 13But when you give a feast, INVITE the POOR, THE MAIMED, THE LAME, THE BLIND. 14And you will be BLESSED, because they cannot repay you; for you shall be REPAID at the RESURRECTION OF THE JUST.” … 21So that servant came and reported these things to his master. Then the master of the house, being angry, said to his servant, ‘Go out quickly into the STREETS and LANES of the city, and bring in here the POOR and the MAIMED and the LAME and the BLIND.’ 22And the servant said, ‘Master, it is done as you commanded, and still THERE IS ROOM.’ 23Then the master said to the servant, ‘Go out into the HIGHWAYS and HEDGES, and COMPEL THEM to COME IN, that MY HOUSE MAY BE FILLED. 24For I say to you that NONE of those men who were INVITED shall taste MY SUPPER.’ ” … … So LIKEWISE, whoever of you does not forsake all that he has CANNOT BE MY DISCIPLE. …” (Luke 14:12 – 14, 21 – 24, 33, NKJV)
It looks as though the one who did the CHARITY DOCTRINE of LITERAL FEEDING OF TANGIBLE FOOD TO THE POOR ETC. was Given a Straight Ticket into Heaven by Christ Himself in Verses above as the evidenced by the phrase: “… 13But when you give a feast, INVITE the POOR, THE MAIMED, THE LAME, THE BLIND. 14And you will be BLESSED, because they cannot repay you; for you shall be REPAID at the RESURRECTION OF THE JUST.” …” (Luke 14:13 – 14, NKJV). If Christ Gives them a Straight Ticket to Heaven, who are we to say anything? This mysteriously agrees with the Judgment Day Verses too:
“… 1“Then the kingdom of heaven shall be likened to ten virgins who took their lamps and went out to meet the bridegroom. 2Now five of them were wise, and five were foolish. 3Those who were foolish took their lamps and took no oil with them, 4but the wise took oil in their vessels with their lamps. 5But while the bridegroom was delayed, they all slumbered and slept. 6“And at midnight a cry was heard: ‘Behold, the bridegroom [a]is coming; go out to meet him!’ 7Then all those virgins arose and trimmed their lamps. 8And the foolish said to the wise, ‘Give us some of your oil, for our lamps are going out.’ 9But the wise answered, saying, ‘No, lest there should not be enough for us and you; but go rather to those who sell, and buy for yourselves.’ 10And while they went to buy, the bridegroom came, and those who were ready went in with him to the wedding; and the door was shut. 11“Afterward the other virgins came also, saying, ‘Lord, Lord, open to us!’ 12But he answered and said, ‘Assuredly, I SAY TO YOU, I DO NOT KNOW YOU.’ 13“Watch therefore, for you know neither the day nor the hour [b]in which the Son of Man is coming. … 31“When the Son of Man comes in His glory, and all the [c]holy angels with Him, then He will sit on the throne of His glory. 32All the nations will be gathered before Him, and He will separate them one from another, as a shepherd divides his sheep from the goats. 33And He will set the sheep on His right hand, but the goats on the left. 34Then the King will say to those on His right hand, ‘Come, you blessed of My Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world: 35for I was hungry and you gave Me food; I was thirsty and you gave Me drink; I was a stranger and you took Me in; 36I was naked and you clothed Me; I was sick and you visited Me; I was in prison and you came to Me.’ 37“Then the righteous will answer Him, saying, ‘Lord, when did we see You hungry and feed You, or thirsty and give You drink? 38When did we see You a stranger and take You in, or naked and clothe You? 39Or when did we see You sick, or in prison, and come to You?’ 40And the King will answer and say to them, ‘Assuredly, I say to you, inasmuch as you did it to one of the least of these My brethren, you did it to Me.’ 41“Then He will also say to those on the left hand, ‘Depart from Me, you cursed, into the everlasting fire prepared for the devil and his angels: 42for I was hungry and you gave Me no food; I was thirsty and you gave Me no drink; 43I was a stranger and you did not take Me in, naked and you did not clothe Me, sick and in prison and you did not visit Me.’ 44“Then they also will answer [d]Him, saying, ‘Lord, when DID WE SEE YOU HUNGRY or THIRSTY OR A STRANGER OR NAKED OR SICK or in PRISON, and did not minister to You?’ 45Then He will answer them, saying, ‘Assuredly, I say to you, inasmuch as YOU DID NOT DO IT to one of the least of these, you DID NOT DO IT TO ME.’ 46And THESE WILL GO AWAY INTO EVERLASTING PUNISHMENT, but the righteous into eternal life.” …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 25:1 – 13, 31 – 46, NKJV)
Isn’t it strange that the only other Verse by Christ Himself which mentions to “Keep our Lamps Lit” is referring to Doing the “Charity Works” that He Commanded as that’s the only Topic or Context which Christ Was Speaking when He Taught this as follows:
“… 31“But SEEK HIS KINGDOM, and THESE THINGS will be ADDED TO YOU. 32“Do not be afraid, little flock, for your Father has chosen gladly to give you the kingdom. 33“SELL YOUR POSSESSIONS and GIVE TO CHARITY; make yourselves money belts which do not wear out, an unfailing treasure in heaven, where no thief comes near nor moth destroys. 34“For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. 35“Be dressed in readiness, and KEEP YOUR LAMPS LIT. 36You are also to be like people who are waiting for their master when he RETURNS FROM THE WEDDING FEAST, so that they may immediately open the door for him when he comes and knocks. 37Blessed are those slaves whom the master will find on the alert when he comes; truly I say to you, that he will [z]prepare himself to serve, and have them recline at the table, and he will come up and serve them. 38Whether he COMES IN THE [AA]SECOND WATCH, or EVEN IN THE [AB]THIRD, and finds them so, blessed are those slaves. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 12:31 – 38, NASB)
Comment: His Return after the “Wedding” (First Resurrection, Revelation 20:4 – 6) during the “Second and Third Watches” could also imply His Surprise Visit to Earth during Christ’s 1000 years Millennial Reign (Revelation 20:5) where verses above points to the Context of “Doing the Charity Doctrine” when understood collectively implying its importance not just now but in the future Judgment Day too as we have seen (Matthew 25:31 – 46). Whether this can also refer hope toward non-Christians is described in post in links below:
- Possible Hope for non-Christians who were Good toward Christians & the Gospel
https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=10160629881647784&id=651792783
Or
- Possible Judgment Day Hope? – Only God Knows
https://www.facebook.com/651792783/posts/10160926103007784/
“… For all the law (Torah) is fulfilled in one word, even in this: “You shall love your neighbor as yourself.” …” (Galatians 5:14, NKJV)
“… Therefore, whatever you want men to do to you, do also to them, for this is the Law (Torah) and the Prophets. …” (Matthew 7:12, NKJV)
“… 29JESUS answered him, “The [k]first of all the commandments is: ‘Hear, O Israel, the Lord our God, the Lord is one. 30And you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your mind, and with all your strength.’ [l]This is the first commandment. 31And the second, like it, is this: ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is NO OTHER COMMANDMENT GREATER THAN THESE.” …” (Mark 12:29 – 31, NKJV)
Yes, even your sins are covered from Judgment if you love:
“… And above all things have fervent love for one another, for “LOVE will COVER a MULTITUDE OF SINS.” …”(1 Peter 4:8, NKJV)
“… Therefore I say to you, HER SINS, which are MANY, ARE FORGIVEN, for SHE LOVED MUCH. But to whom little is forgiven, the same loves little. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 7:47, NKJV)
The Gift of having the Father, Son and Holy Spirit linked only to this Context of “Obeying His New testament Commands”
“… 23JESUS ANSWERED and said to him, “If anyone loves Me, he will KEEP MY WORD; and MY FATHER WILL LOVE HIM, and WE WILL COME TO HIM and MAKE OUR HOME WITH HIM. 24He who does not love Me does not keep My words; and the word which you hear is not Mine but the Father’s who sent Me. … 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 THINGS THAT I SAID TO YOU. …” (John 14:23 24, 26, NKJV)
“… 13HOLD FAST The PATTERN OF SOUND WORDS which you have heard from me, in faith and love which are in Christ Jesus. 14That good thing which was committed to you, KEEP BY THE HOLY SPIRIT who dwells in us. …” (2 Timothy 1:13 – 14, NKJV)
The irrefutable argument for “Many” who are “Denied” on that Day despite doing MIRACLES, CASTING OUT DEMONS and PROPHESYING is this: “… LAWLESSNESS …” which most people think is “Outside sin” (which is true) but also this “INSIDE LAWLESSNESS OF GREED/WICKEDNESS” which can only be CLEANSED with the ALMSGIVING OR CHARITY DOCTRINE for without it they “never truly Loved in Action” and thus are”LAWLESS within” according to CHRIST HIMSELF in both Verses below for Comparison in HIS OWN WORDS: Can you really see it? Please allow me to repeat that Verse part for “Lawlessness Context Inside” only below:
“… 28Even so you also OUTWARDLY APPEAR RIGHTEOUS TO MEN, but INSIDE YOU ARE FULL OF HYPOCRISY AND LAWLESSNESS. …” (Matthew 23:28)
“… ‘I NEVER KNEW YOU; depart from Me, YOU WHO PRACTICE LAWLESSNESS!’ …” (Matthew 7:23)
What’s the Cure for this “Inside Lawlessness” though it cannot be seen outside as Christ Himself Says that such ones appear “… OUTWARDLY APPEAR RIGHTEOUS TO MEN … but INSIDE YOU ARE FULL OF HYPOCRISY AND LAWLESSNESS. …” (Matthew 23:28)? This time Blessed Luke records this part more clearly as follows in this same Topic/Context of “Cleaning the Inside” (Doctrine of Sanctification for those Sanctified by the Spirit of God):
“… (39Then the Lord said to him), “Now you Pharisees make the OUTSIDE OF THE CUP AND DISH CLEAN, but your INWARD part is full of GREED and WICKEDNESS. 40Foolish ones! Did not He who made the outside make the INSIDE also? 41But rather GIVE ALMS [CHARITY] of SUCH THINGS AS YOU HAVE; then indeed ALL THINGS are CLEAN to you. . …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 11:39 – 41, NKJV)
Surprisingly, Christ only Mentions ALSMGIVING/CHARITY DOCTRINE as the CURE for the LAWLESSNESS WITHIN in Verses above. Can you see it as it is Written? If Christ Didn’t Add any other Act or Way by “His Will”, why do we want to “add” to His Word?
Also, why don’t we just “Believe His Words above and Obey Him”?
True “Blessedness” is not money/prosperity or worldly things but “Obeying His Word (Command)” and only then we “Abide (remain) in His Love” (for if not, we drift away from “His Love” whenever we Teach “against” His “New testament Commands”, right? Yes as per verses below):
“… [But He said,] “On the contrary, BLESSED are those who HEAR the WORD OF GOD and FOLLOW IT.” …” – The KING, Most Blessed Jesus Christ (Luke 11:28, NKJV)
Here’s a rarely known Biblical Gem – How to Please Christ Most?
Context: Many people think that parenting is among the greatest thing to do in the World to fulfill God’s Will. However, in Verse below we find Christ Comparing that “OBEYING any of HIS NEW TESTAMENT COMMANDS” (or ‘Keeping the Word of God’) as a Greater Act than even if you had the privilege of Raising “CHRIST Himself” as a “Parent” (Context):
“… 27And it happened, as He spoke these things, that a certain woman from the crowd raised her voice and said to Him, “BLESSED is the womb that BORE YOU, and the breasts which NURSED YOU!” 28But He said, “MORE THAN THAT, BLESSED are those who HEAR the WORD OF GOD and KEEP IT!” …” (Luke 11:27 – 28, NKJV)
In short, even if you were given an opportunity to ‘raise Lord Jesus as a child by providing for him meals and taking care of him’ (i.e. “nursed him”), it is still NOT AS GREAT as OBEYING HIS COMMANDS.
So the Greatest thing to Please Christ is to OBEY HIS COMMANDS. Can you please see this rarely understood but so plain CONTEXT in these Verses “as it is Written”?
So “more New Testament Commands” we can obey, the greater the “Blessedness” & especially in the Charity Doctrine, “Givers” are “more Blessed”:
“… I have shown you in every way, by laboring like this, that you must support the weak. And remember the words of the Lord Jesus, that He said, ‘It is MORE BLESSED to GIVE THAN TO RECEIVE.’ ” …” (Acts 20:35, NKJV)
True abiding in “His Love” = “Keeping or Obeying Christ’s Direct New Testament Commands by Him or His Apostles” so the opposite must imply a ‘drifting away from His Love, right?’, to quote:
“… If you KEEP MY COMMANDMENTS, you will abide in My love, just as I have kept My Father’s commandments and abide in His love. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (John 15:10, NKJV)
Doctrinal Focus: Based on all these “New Testament Verses”, are we BEING SANCTIFIED?
Peace to you
Safe Route Scripturally – No need to use the Phrase “God told me …”
Bible Logic: If you use the phrase “… God told me …”, the Verses below (next) say that you must be sure 100% each time you quote “Him” because if wrong, God Says “… I will bring an EVERLASTING reproach upon you, and a PERPETUAL shame, which shall not be forgotten.’ ” …” (Jeremiah 23:40).
Do these words “PERPETUAL” or “EVERLASTING” from the Original Word (Olam in Hebrew /or Aeonian in Greek) sound like a joke or small matter to you? It’s the same word translated as Everlasting Punishment in Daniel 12:2 or in Matthew 25:46.
Please remember that many of these “same prophets” failed in “their Prophecy” or “Prayers” of “Mr. Trump as President” recently (not that Mr. Biden is any better) but I’m focusing on the “failed” Prophecy and Prayer Request part as many of them claimed “… God told me …” Which fits the Warning in “Bible Verses” (not my opinion) below:
“… 34“And as for THE PROPHET AND THE PRIEST and THE PEOPLE who say, ‘THE [J]ORACLE OF THE LORD!’ I WILL EVEN PUNISH THAT MAN and HIS HOUSE. 35Thus every one of you shall say to his neighbor, and every one to his brother, ‘What has the Lord answered?’ and, ‘What has the Lord spoken?’ 36And the [k]ORACLE OF THE LORD YOU SHALL MENTION NO MORE. For EVERY MAN’S WORD WILL BE HIS ORACLE, for you have perverted the words of the living God, the Lord of hosts, our God. 37Thus you shall say to the prophet, ‘What has the Lord answered you?’ and, ‘What has the Lord spoken?’ 38But since you say, ‘The [l]oracle of the Lord!’ therefore thus says the Lord: ‘Because you say this word, “The oracle of the Lord!” and I have sent to you, saying, “Do not say, ‘The oracle of the Lord!’ ” 39therefore behold, I, even I, WILL UTTERLY FORGET YOU and FORSAKE YOU, and the city that I gave you and your fathers, and will cast you out of My presence. 40And I WILL BRING AN EVERLASTING REPROACH UPON YOU, AND A PERPETUAL SHAME, which SHALL NOT BE FORGOTTEN.’ ” …” (Jeremiah 23:34 – 40, NKJV)
Conclusion
God’s Principles does “not” Change. You can clearly see the “Hard Judgment” awaiting those who claim “… God told me …” Or equivalent (e.g. “… Oracle of the LORD …”) unless that person really heard from God 100%.
As for me I neither endorse them nor judge them and prefer the “Safe Route Scripturally” which is Commanded by God here as “… 36And the [k]ORACLE OF THE LORD YOU SHALL MENTION NO MORE. For EVERY MAN’S WORD WILL BE HIS ORACLE, …” (Jeremiah 23:36).
This verse allows us to express “out opinions” where since if we don’t claim “… God told me …”, God Seems to be “Lenient” and vice versa. Can you see it please as “it is Written”? (God may give room for error if we are wrong provided we do “not” take His Holy Name in Vain by claiming “… God told me …” In such cases).
I am “not” against Prophecy but please be careful of who you call Prophet and endorse because if they are wrong, these Verses do “not” seem to point lightly as the Principle of “Everlasting Reproach” or “Perpetual Shame” does not sound simple to me.
Better to just obey “His Written New Testament Commands and Scripture as it is Written” and leave the Judgment to God Alone when He Returns as 1 Corinthians 4 Reveals in full as follows:
“… Therefore JUDGE NOTHING BEFORE THE TIME, UNTIL THE LORD COMES, who will both bring to light the hidden things of darkness and reveal the counsels of the hearts. Then each one’s praise will come from God. 6Now these things, brethren, I have figuratively transferred to myself and Apollos for your sakes, that you may learn in us NOT TO THINK BEYOND WHAT IS WRITTEN, that none of you may be [c]puffed up on behalf of one against the other. 7For who [d]MAKES YOU DIFFER FROM ANOTHER? And what do you have that you did not receive? Now if you did indeed receive it, why do you boast as if you had not received it? … 14I do not write these things to shame you, but as my beloved children I warn you. 15For though you might have ten thousand instructors in Christ, yet you do not have many fathers; for in Christ Jesus I have begotten you through the gospel. 16Therefore I URGE YOU, IMITATE ME. 17For this reason I have sent Timothy to you, who is my beloved and faithful son in the Lord, who will remind you of my ways in Christ, as I TEACH EVERYWHERE IN EVERY CHURCH. …” (1 Corinthians 4:5 – 7, 14 – 17, NKJV)
Please also notice that the “Many” Denied on that Day are said to have “Prophesied” in His Name and could refer to this aspect too as per Christ’s Warning in Matthew 7:21 – 24. Please also take note that many Prophets may have Prophesied a “Prosperous Year Ahead Financially” at the end of 2019 entering into 2020 during the Year End Church Services but “not” one of them could forsee the “COVID 19 Pandemic” which engulfed the year 2020 and now 2021 bringing these “Prosperity Prophecies” to nothing. If your Prophet didn’t falsely prophesy this, I am not talking about them but there are certainly “Prosperity Prophecies” which were given at the end of 2019 using the phrase “… God told me …” or equivalent which has clearly failed. These ones you ought to be Very careful.
If you really love your family, people and others around you, please ask them to be careful of this Practice because a wrong here could be very serious as these Verses describe in Jeremiah 23 earlier (Let God Decide One Day who Prophesied in His Name correctly while who did not. We do not need to play judge here).
Here’s Jeremiah 23:38 in a few translations:
New International Version
Although you claim, ‘This is a message from the LORD,’ this is what the LORD says: You used the words, ‘This is a message from the LORD,’ even though I TOLD YOU THAT YOU MUST NOT CLAIM, ‘THIS IS A MESSAGE FROM THE LORD.’
New Living Translation
But suppose they respond, ‘This is a prophecy from the LORD!’ Then you should say, ‘This is what the LORD says: Because YOU HAVE USED THIS PHRASE, “PROPHECY FROM THE LORD,” even though I WARNED YOU NOT TO USE IT,
English Standard Version
But if you say, ‘The burden of the LORD,’ thus says the LORD, ‘Because you have said these words, “The burden of the LORD,” when I sent to you, saying, “YOU SHALL NOT SAY, ‘THE BURDEN OF THE LORD,’”
Berean Study Bible
But if you claim, ‘This is the burden of the LORD,’ then this is what the LORD says: Because you have said, ‘THIS IS THE BURDEN OF THE LORD,’ and I SPECIFICALLY TOLD YOU NOT TO MAKE THIS CLAIM,
King James Bible
But since ye say, The burden of the LORD; therefore thus saith the LORD; Because ye say this word, The burden of the LORD, and I have sent unto you, saying, YE SHALL NOT SAY, THE BURDEN OF THE LORD;
New King James Version
But since you say, ‘The oracle of the LORD!’ therefore thus says the LORD: ‘Because you say this word, “The oracle of the LORD!” and I have sent to you, saying, “DO NOT SAY, ‘THE ORACLE OF THE LORD!’ ”
New American Standard Bible
And if you say, ‘The pronouncement of the LORD!’ for that reason the LORD says this: ‘Because you said this word, “The pronouncement of the LORD!” I have also sent word to you, saying, “YOU SHALL NOT SAY, ‘THE PRONOUNCEMENT OF THE LORD!’”’
Source: https://biblehub.com/jeremiah/23-38.htm
Peace to you
Safe Route Scripturally – Which Denomination or Christianity to Follow?
“… Obedience is better than Sacrifice …” (1 Samuel 15:22)
The Most Broken Will of God in Christianity (of more than 40000 denominations) is this:
“… Now I plead with you, brethren, by the NAME OF OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST, that YOU ALL SPEAK THE SAME THING, and that there be NO DIVISIONS AMONG YOU, but that you be perfectly joined together in the SAME MIND and in the SAME JUDGMENT. …” (1 Corinthians 1:10, NKJV)
How to have “no” divisions? Only by “not going beyond what is Written” especially regarding “His Commands” as this Context is what is meant so clearly in Verses below:
“… that you may learn in us NOT TO THINK BEYOND WHAT IS WRITTEN, that none of you may be [c]puffed up on behalf of one against the other. … 14I do not write these things to shame you, but as my beloved children I warn you. 15For though you might have ten thousand instructors in Christ, yet you do not have many fathers; for in Christ Jesus I have begotten you through the gospel. 16Therefore I URGE YOU, IMITATE ME. 17For this reason I have sent Timothy to you, who is my beloved and faithful son in the Lord, who will remind you of my ways in Christ, as I TEACH EVERYWHERE IN EVERY CHURCH. …” (1 Corinthians 4:4, 14 – 17, NKJV)
The Danger is forming “Schisms” based on accepting “what is not written or for practising against what is Written” as Verses above Demonstrate.
So that’s why we don’t teach contrary to New Testament Commands so that we may not be Condemned based on 1 Corinthians 1:10. Can you see it please as it is Written the importance of obeying Written New Testament Commands?
Regarding Prophecies or other things be it eternal Hell is true or Christ Centered Universalism as long as one does “not” form a “new schism” based on this, we are “not” Contradicting this Verse at all. This is because this “same set of Verses” allows us to skip the “Prophecy Accuracy part” if we “choose not to Judge these things before its time (as these have not come to pass yet)”, to quote these Principles which we follow as it is Written in “Full”:
“… Therefore JUDGE NOTHING BEFORE THE TIME, UNTIL THE LORD COMES, who will both bring to light the hidden things of darkness and reveal the counsels of the hearts. Then each one’s praise will come from God. 6Now these things, brethren, I have figuratively transferred to myself and Apollos for your sakes, that you may learn in us NOT TO THINK BEYOND WHAT IS WRITTEN, that none of you may be [c]puffed up on behalf of one against the other. 7For who [d]MAKES YOU DIFFER FROM ANOTHER? And what do you have that you did not receive? Now if you did indeed receive it, why do you boast as if you had not received it? … 14I do not write these things to shame you, but as my beloved children I warn you. 15For though you might have ten thousand instructors in Christ, yet you do not have many fathers; for in Christ Jesus I have begotten you through the gospel. 16Therefore I URGE YOU, IMITATE ME. 17For this reason I have sent Timothy to you, who is my beloved and faithful son in the Lord, who will remind you of my ways in Christ, as I TEACH EVERYWHERE IN EVERY CHURCH. …” (1 Corinthians 4:5 – 7, 14 – 17, NKJV)
Yes, One thing is for sure: Whoever follows these New Testament Commands will never be condemned according to Verse below:
“… 1 IMITATE ME, just as I also IMITATE CHRIST. 2Now I PRAISE YOU, brethren, that you remember me in all things and KEEP THE TRADITIONS just as I delivered them to you. … 16But if anyone seems to be contentious, we have no such custom, nor do the churches of God. … ” (1 Corinthians 11:1 – 2, 11:16, NKJV)
So isn’t doing what is “not” Written or doing against what is “Written New Testament Commands” (the context of these Verses itself) and in return causing one’s own denomination to do this “new Schisms” based on this “risky Christianity”? That’s why I believe in working with any Christian on things which New Testament Verses Command. The things which we differ on I have learnt not to use it to reject them but let God Decide without keeping away from them by focusing on the “New Testament Commands” which we can fulfill together in some ways. This is the Christianity I see is the Safe Route Scripturally with these “Bible Verses”.
First Christianity Taught this same Truth:
We don’t need to condemn those who disobey beyond pointing out the risk they’re taking as this First Christianity Legend of Faith Quotes Christ’s Words of “… Judge not …” (Luke 6:37, Matthew 7:1) likewise:
“… But He who raised Him up from the dead will raise up us also, if WE DO HIS WILL, and WALK IN HIS COMMANDMENTS, and love what He loved, keeping ourselves from all unrighteousness, COVETOUSNESS, LOVE OF MONEY, evil speaking, falsewitness; “not rendering evil for evil, or railing for railing,” or blow for blow, or cursing for cursing, but being MINDFUL OF WHAT THE LORD SAID in HIS TEACHING: “JUDGE NOT, THAT YE BE NOT JUDGED; forgive, and it shall be forgiven unto you; be merciful, that ye may obtain mercy; WITH WHAT MEASURE YE METE, IT SHALL BE MEASURED TO YOU again; and once more, “BLESSED ARE THE POOR, and THOSE THAT ARE PERSECUTED FOR RIGHTEOUSNESS’ SAKE, FOR THEIRS IS THE KINGDOM OF GOD.” …” – Blessed St. Polycarp, Bishop of Smryna, an Apostolic Father being the Disciple of the Blessed St. John the Apostle who wrote the Book of Revelation (c. 69 AD – c. 155 AD, Chapter II, THE EPISTLE OF POLYCARP TO THE PHILIPPIANS)
Source: http://www.earlychristianwritings.com/text/polycarp-roberts.html
And this
The “Prophecy” below may explain their way which is by St. Clement of Rome himself:
“… Who then among you is NOBLE-MINDED? who compassionate? who FULL OF LOVE? Let him declare, “IF ON MY ACCOUNT SEDITION and DISAGREEMENT AND SCHISMS HAVE ARISEN, I WILL DEPART, I WILL GO AWAY whithersoever you desire, and I WILL DO WHATEVER THE MAJORITY COMMANDS; only let the flock of Christ live on terms of peace with the presbyters set over it.” HE THAT ACTS THUS SHALL PROCURE TO HIMSELF GREAT GLORY IN THE LORD; and EVERY PLACE WILL WELCOME HIM. For “the earth is the Lord’s, and the fulness thereof.” These things they WHO LIVE A GODLY LIFE, that is NEVER TO BE REPENTED OF, BOTH HAVE DONE AND ALWAYS WILL DO. … ” – Blessed St. Clement of Rome, an Apostolic Father being a direct Disciple of the Blessed Apostle St. Peter (c.35 AD – c. 99 AD, 1 Clement Chapter 54)
Source: http://www.earlychristianwritings.com/text/1clement-roberts.html
Note: Neither St. Polycarp’s nor St. Clement of Rome’s writings have any prayers to Virgin Mary or saints or equivalent.
This is the main reason why ‘we don’t believe in forming our own church even if we are right’ but as Blessed St. Clement of Rome commands in his apostolic authority, “… I will do whatever the majority commands …” even if it includes being kicked out of the church, i.e. “… If on my account sedition and disagreement and schisms have arisen, I will depart, I will go away whithersoever you desire …” as long as the Majority of Christians is happy [i.e. “… only let the flock of Christ live on terms of peace with the presbyters set over it …”] & this is not in reference of a heretic being put off from a Church but is referring to a True Christian as “… These things they who live a godly life, that is never to be repented of, both have done and always will do …” because these belong to “… Who then among you is noble-minded? who compassionate? who full of love? …” where their reward of leaving Church is not eternal hell but amazingly, “… He that acts thus shall procure to himself great glory in the Lord; and every place will welcome him …” .
Since St. Clement of Rome’s name is surely in the “Book of Life” (especially since Philippians 4:3 points to most likely him whilst he was still living), I would prefer to Believe, Preach and do the best I can do Practice his quotes which makes the Bible Verses quoted to be more accurately understood.
Building God’s Church – Planting and Watering to Saved by Fire Mystery
Verses:
“… 5Who then is Paul, and who is Apollos, but ministers through whom you believed, as the Lord gave to each one? 6I planted, Apollos watered, but God gave the increase. 7So then neither he who plants is anything, nor he who waters, but God who gives the increase. 8Now he who plants and he who waters are one, and each one will receive his own reward according to his own labor. 9For we are God’s fellow workers; YOU ARE GOD’S FIELD, you are God’s building. 10According to the grace of God which was given to me, as a wise master builder I HAVE LAID THE FOUNDATION, and ANOTHER BUILDS ON IT. But let each one take heed HOW HE BUILDS ON IT. 11For no other foundation can anyone lay than that which is laid, which is Jesus Christ. 12Now if anyone builds on this foundation with gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, straw, 13each one’s work will become clear; FOR THE DAY WILL DECLARE IT, because IT WILL BE REVEALED BY FIRE [Lake of Fire, Revelation 20:11 – 15]; and the fire will test each one’s work, of what sort it is. 14If anyone’s work which he has built on it endures, he will receive a reward. 15If anyone’s work is burned, he will suffer loss; but HE HIMSELF WILL BE SAVED, YET SO AS THROUGH FIRE. …” (1 Corinthians 3:11 – 15, NKJV)
Did you notice that in Verses above, Christians could build the Works of “… gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, straw, …” in Ministry (of building God’s Church)?
Also, the Works of God, Silver and Precious stones must definitely refer to “Teaching Obedience to God’s Word toward His New Testament Commands” while the works of “wood , hay and straw” (which can be burned hence cannot be God’s Word) but must be ‘false teachings’ and/or works which are NOT based on “New Testament Commands” but ‘opinions of men set against it’.
That’s why Christ Himself Speaks only of “obeying and teaching” others of “His New Testament Commands” for the Ranking of “Least vs Greatest” in His Kingdom and “to the one who built the house on the Rock” and the Gift of having the Father, Son and Holy Spirit linked only to this Context likewise in Verses below “as it is Written”, to quote:
1) Obeying and teaching” others of “His New Testament Commands” for the Ranking of “Least vs Greatest” in His Kingdom
“… 19Whoever therefore BREAKS one of the LEAST of THESE COMMANDMENTS, and TEACHES men so, shall be called LEAST in the kingdom of HEAVEN; but whoever DOES AND TEACHES them, he shall be called GREAT in the kingdom of HEAVEN. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 5:19 – 20, NKJV)
2) To the one who built the house on the Rock
“… 46“But WHY DO YOU CALL ME ‘LORD, LORD,’ and NOT DO THE THINGS WHICH I SAY? 47Whoever comes to Me, and hears My sayings and does them, I will show you whom he is like: 48He is like a man building a house, who dug deep and laid the foundation on the rock …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 6:46 – 48, NKJV)
“… 14Because narrow is the gate and difficult is the way which leads to life, and there are few who find it. … 21“Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who DOES THE WILL OF MY FATHER in heaven. 22MANY will say to Me in that day, ‘Lord, Lord, have we NOT PROPHESIED in Your name, CAST OUT DEMONS in Your name, and DONE MANY WONDERS in Your name?’ 23And then I will declare to them, ‘I never knew you; depart from Me, YOU WHO PRACTICE LAWLESSNESS!’. 24“Therefore WHOEVER HEARS THESE SAYINGS OF MINE, and DOES THEM, I will liken him to a WISE MAN who BUILT HIS HOUSE ON THE ROCK: …” – Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 7:14, 21 – 23, 24, NKJV)
3) The Gift of having the Father, Son and Holy Spirit linked only to this Context of “Obeying His New testament Commands”
“… 23JESUS ANSWERED and said to him, “If anyone loves Me, he will KEEP MY WORD; and MY FATHER WILL LOVE HIM, and WE WILL COME TO HIM and MAKE OUR HOME WITH HIM. 24He who does not love Me does not keep My words; and the word which you hear is not Mine but the Father’s who sent Me. … 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 THINGS THAT I SAID TO YOU. …” (John 14:23 24, 26, NKJV)
“… 13HOLD FAST The PATTERN OF SOUND WORDS which you have heard from me, in faith and love which are in Christ Jesus. 14That good thing which was committed to you, KEEP BY THE HOLY SPIRIT who dwells in us. …” (2 Timothy 1:13 – 14, NKJV)
This is why the Doctrine of Sanctification as Obedience to His “Written New Testament Word” is important for “His Church”:
“… just as Christ also loved the church and gave Himself for her, 26that He MIGHT [G]SANCTIFY and CLEANSE HER WITH THE WASHING OF WATER by THE WORD, 27that He might present her to Himself a glorious church, not having spot or wrinkle or any such thing, but that she should be holy and without blemish. …” (Ephesians 5:25 – 27, NKJV)
The Alternate for Christians who Teach contrary to New Testament Commands whilst ‘building or watering’ God’s House with “… wood, hay, straw, …” may be “Saved by Grace” indeed due to to their believing but only after “losing their rewards” in the “Fire”, to quote that part again for emphasis:
“… 8Now he who plants and he who waters are one, and each one will receive his own reward according to his own labor. 9For we are God’s fellow workers; YOU ARE GOD”S FIELD, you are God’s building. … 12Now if anyone builds on this foundation with …, wood, hay, straw, 13each one’s work will become clear; FOR THE DAY WILL DECLARE IT, because IT WILL BE REVEALED BY FIRE and the fire will test each one’s work, of what sort it is. 1 … 15If anyone’s work is burned, he will suffer loss; but HE HIMSELF WILL BE SAVED, YET SO AS THROUGH FIRE. …” (1 Corinthians 3:11 – 15, NKJV)
So please preach responsibly and not against New Testament Commands nor against New Testament Traditions as those who keep it are PRAISED by the MOST BLESSSED HOLY SPIRIT as follows:
“… 1 IMITATE ME, just as I also IMITATE CHRIST. 2Now I PRAISE YOU, brethren, that you remember me in all things and KEEP THE TRADITIONS just as I delivered them to you. … 16But if anyone seems to be contentious, we have no such custom, nor do the churches of God. … ” (1 Corinthians 11:1 – 2, 11:16, NKJV)
Yes, please never go BEYOND WHAT IS WRITTEN and TEACH the SAME NEW TESTAMENT COMMANDS that are WRITTEN in EVERY CHURCH EVERYWHERE (as these Verses imply as it is Written):
“… that you may learn in us NOT TO THINK BEYOND WHAT IS WRITTEN, that none of you may be [c]puffed up on behalf of one against the other. … 14I do not write these things to shame you, but as my beloved children I warn you. 15For though you might have ten thousand instructors in Christ, yet you do not have many fathers; for in Christ Jesus I have begotten you through the gospel. 16Therefore I URGE YOU, IMITATE ME. 17For this reason I have sent Timothy to you, who is my beloved and faithful son in the Lord, who will remind you of my ways in Christ, as I TEACH EVERYWHERE IN EVERY CHURCH. …” (1 Corinthians 4:4, 14 – 17, NKJV)
These are the “Lord’s Command” (and not opinions of men):
“… 33For God is not a God of disorder but of peace—as in all the congregations of the Lord’s people … 36Or did the word of God originate with you? Or are you the only people it has reached? 37If anyone thinks they are a PROPHET or otherwise GIFTED BY THE SPIRIT, let them ACKNOWLEDGE that WHAT I AM WRITING to you is the LORD’S COMMAND. 38But if anyone IGNORES THIS, THEY WILL THEMSELVES BE IGNORED. …” (1 Corinthians 14:33, 36 – 38, NIV)
In other words, you are working hard for ministry which is good but please make sure that it’s not works of “wood , hay or straw” as these Verses define and warn. Please notice that if the works of “wood , hay or straw” meant living unholy, then you are claiming that even adulterers, murderers etc. can be saved by fire. If that’s true, the same must apply to ignoring other New testament Commands too as the works of “wood, hay or straw”, right? So regardless the burnable works of “wood , hay or straw” must definitely refer to ‘teaching against New Testament Commands’.
Peace to you
Relative Measure in Faith and Obedience Mystery – Even a Faith Greater than Israel
Firstly, Obedience to the Written Word of God is for the Cleansing or Sanctification of His Church
Verses:
“… just as Christ also loved the church and gave Himself for her, 26that He MIGHT [G]SANCTIFY and CLEANSE HER WITH THE WASHING OF WATER by THE WORD, 27that He might present her to Himself a glorious church, not having spot or wrinkle or any such thing, but that she should be holy and without blemish. …” (Ephesians 5:25 – 27, NKJV)
So, please avoid teaching against Written Verses as we may be stopping God’s Cleansing Act and also making them transgress “His Commands” even with “many converts” it’s like making “many to transgress” and “break His New Testament Commands” instead of teaching them to obey it as per Warning by Christ Himself in Verses below:
“… 19Whoever therefore BREAKS one of the LEAST of THESE COMMANDMENTS, and TEACHES men so, shall be called LEAST in the kingdom of HEAVEN; but whoever DOES AND TEACHES them, he shall be called GREAT in the kingdom of HEAVEN. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 5:19 – 20, NKJV)
God Cannot be cleansing the Early Church with one command and ours with a way exactly “opposite” to it. It must be the same command and only then it’s fair to all and is universal & measurable.
Conclusion – A Faith Greater than Israel – when CHRIST HIMSELF MARVELLED at this Gentile
Here’s a Biblical Secret: To obey a rare command especially when many don’t obey can merit a Great Pleasing of God and Great Rewards in His Kingdom. For example, Blessed Abraham was Rewarded and honoured greatly for obeying God and leaving his family into the unknown which may not be a big deal as some say but the thing is almost no one did that when he was living. Similarly, the “faith statement” below by the Centurion may not sound like a big deal but it’s a “faith greater than all in Israel” at that time itself simply because of “Relative Measure” where with almost no Scriptural Exposure, this Gentile Centurion exhibited such a “Great Faith”:
“… When JESUS HEARD THESE THINGS, He MARVELED at him, and turned around and said to the crowd that followed Him, “I say to you, I have NOT FOUND SUCH GREAT FAITH, NOT EVEN IN ISRAEL!” …” (Luke 7:9, NKJV)
Here’s another Secret about this Gentile Centurion’s Faith which was Greater than all Israel’s namely is that he was doing ALMSGIVING (CHARITY DOCTRINE) toward the ISRAELITES itself such as building a synagogue (without even knowing Christ’s Love your Enemies commands of Perfection, Matthew 5:38 – 45) as Verses below describe first about him which is only seen when Quoted in “full”:
“… 4And when they came to Jesus, they begged Him earnestly, saying that the one for whom He should do this was deserving, 5“for HE LOVES OUR NATION, AND HAS BUILT US A SYNAGOGUE.” 6Then Jesus went with them. And when He was already not far from the house, the centurion sent friends to Him, saying to Him, “Lord, do not trouble Yourself, for I am not worthy that You should enter under my roof. 7Therefore I did not even think myself worthy to come to You. But say the word, and my servant will be healed. 8For I also am a man placed under authority, having soldiers under me. And I say to one, ‘Go,’ and he goes; and to another, ‘Come,’ and he comes; and to my servant, ‘Do this,’ and he does it.” 9WHEN JESUS HEARD THESE THINGS, HE MARVELED at him, and turned around and said to the crowd that followed Him, “I say to you, I HAVE NOT FOUND SUCH GREAT FAITH, NOT EVEN IN ISRAEL!” …” (Luke 7:4 – 9, NKJV)
If Christ MARVELLED because of this, let’s do things that impresses Him instead of impressing Humans.
Please notice also carefully that CHRIST (God in Flesh) Himself called a FAITH GREATER THAN ISRAEL not toward a faith which converted many (like the Pharisees did as per Matthew 23:15 travelling land and sea to make converts only) but toward a Faith which had ALMSGIVING and GREAT BELIEF IN RELATIVE MEASURE as “it is Written“. So, if others don’t want to listen to these Words which are BIBLE VERSES from CHRIST HIMSELF (and not my opinions), we may ignore them as per Verse below:
“… 6“Do not give what is holy to the dogs; nor cast your pearls before swine, lest they trample them under their feet, and turn and tear you in pieces. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 7:6, NKJV)
Note: “Swine” is a “Selfish animal” which thinks of no other but itself. Dogs are loyal to food (equivalently prosperity) as the same dog can be loyal to a rapist or murderer too just because he gives him food unable to discern good from evil.
Those “Perfection” love your enemies Verses which the Gentile Centurion was fulfilling unknowingly is this:
“… 38“You have heard that it was said, ‘An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth.’ [Deuteronomy 19:21 ] 39BUT I TELL YOU NOT to RESIST an EVIL PERSON. But whoever slaps you on your right cheek, turn the other to him also. 40If anyone wants to sue you and take away your tunic, let him have your cloak also. 41And whoever compels you to go one mile, go with him two. 42Give to him who asks you, and from him who wants to borrow from you do not turn away. 43“You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall love your neighbor and HATE YOUR ENEMY.’ 44[o]BUT I SAY TO YOU, LOVE YOUR ENEMIES, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you, 45that you may be SONS OF YOUR FATHER in heaven; for He makes His sun rise on the EVIL AND ON THE GOOD, and sends rain on the JUST AND ON THE UNJUST. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 5:38 – 45, NKJV)
So “Relative Measure” is the secret of Obedience and Faith as how God Measures it & that’s all that matters as even the giving of the poor Widow’s 2 coins which fed almost no one but was more than all the rich’s which fed many poor too according to Christ Himself in Verses below:
“… 1And He looked up and saw the rich putting their gifts into the treasury, 2and He saw also a certain poor widow putting in two mites.[a] 3So He said, “TRULY I say to you that this POOR widow has put in MORE THAN ALL; 4for all these out of their abundance have put in offerings [b]for God, but she OUT OF HER POVERTY PUT IN ALL THE LIVELIHOOD THAT SHE HAD.” …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 21:1 – 4, NKJV)
So please take note likewise “Doing His New Testament Commands” especially those directly by CHRIST HIMSELF when not many living now is doing it can merit the Greatest Reward to be Closer to God where the Most Blessed Holy Spirit of God will remind us of “His COMMANDS”, Verses:
“… 23JESUS ANSWERED and said to him, “If anyone loves Me, he will KEEP MY WORD; and MY FATHER WILL LOVE HIM, and WE WILL COME TO HIM and MAKE OUR HOME WITH HIM. 24He who does not love Me does not keep My words; and the word which you hear is not Mine but the Father’s who sent Me. … 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 THINGS THAT I SAID TO YOU. …” (John 14:23 24, 26, NKJV)
“… 13HOLD FAST The PATTERN OF SOUND WORDS which you have heard from me, in faith and love which are in Christ Jesus. 14That good thing which was committed to you, KEEP BY THE HOLY SPIRIT who dwells in us. …” (2 Timothy 1:13 – 14, NKJV)
May God Help us.
P/S: Ephesians 5:26 in a few Translations
New International Version
to make her holy, cleansing her by the washing with water through the word,
New Living Translation
to make her holy and clean, washed by the cleansing of God’s word.
English Standard Version
that he might sanctify her, having cleansed her by the washing of water with the word,
Berean Study Bible
to sanctify her, cleansing her by the washing with water through the word,
Berean Literal Bible
so that He might sanctify her, having cleansed her by the washing of water by the word,
King James Bible
That he might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by the word,
New King James Version
that He might sanctify and cleanse her with the washing of water by the word,
New American Standard Bible
so that He might sanctify her, having cleansed her by the washing of water with the word,
Source: https://biblehub.com/ephesians/5-26.htm
Peace to you
What Traits does the Bible Praise regarding the 144000 of Israel?
Verses:
“… 1Then I looked, and behold, [a]a LAMB STANDING ON MOUNT ZION, and WITH HIM ONE HUNDRED AND FORTY-FOUR THOUSAND, [b]having His Father’s name written on their foreheads. 2And I heard a voice from heaven, like the voice of many waters, and like the voice of loud thunder. And I heard the sound of harpists playing their harps. 3They sang as it were a new song before the throne, before the four living creatures, and the elders; and no one could learn that song except the hundred and forty-four thousand who were redeemed from the earth. 4These are the ones who were NOT DEFILED WITH WOMEN, FOR THEY ARE VIRGINS. These are the ones who follow the Lamb wherever He goes. These were [c]redeemed from among men, being firstfruits to God and to the Lamb. 5And IN THEIR MOUTH WAS FOUND NO [D]DECEIT, FOR THEY ARE WITHOUT FAULT [E]BEFORE THE THRONE OF GOD. …” (Revelation 14:1 – 5, NKJV)
These are the highest FIRSTFRUITS of God. Please notice which traits only are PRAISED and WRITTEN about them:
- Unmarried Virgins
“… 4These are the ones who were NOT DEFILED WITH WOMEN, FOR THEY ARE VIRGINS. …”
- Pure Mouth without lies
“… 5And IN THEIR MOUTH WAS FOUND NO [D]DECEIT, …”
- They Keep (Obey) the Commandments of God
“… FOR THEY ARE WITHOUT FAULT [E]BEFORE THE THRONE OF GOD. …”
Conclusion
Though we “cannot” be these 144000 highest (Hundredfold) FIRSTFRUITS of God, perhaps there are other Hundredfolds among the FIRSTFRUITS as Christ Mentioned in Matthew 19:29.
But the most interesting thing is this: If the Word of God PRAISES them for THESE WRITTEN TRAITS ONLY, this means that any GREAT OBEDIENCE to GOD likewise must be along those same lines too.
For example, some people wonder why the “unmarried part” is important? The Verse below Written by the Inspiration of the Most Blessed Holy Spirit of God Reveals that His Desire is for All to Remain Unmarried (“God’s Perfect Will”) but He doesn’t force it but allows marriage too as an option for the reason of an “Undivided Heart for God Alone”, Verses:
“… 7For I WISH THAT ALL MEN WERE EVEN as I MYSELF. But each one has his own gift from God, one in this manner and another in that. 8But I say to the UNMARRIED AND TO THE WIDOWS: IT IS GOOD FOR THEM IF THEY REMAIN EVEN AS I AM; 9but if they cannot exercise self-control, let them marry. For it is better to marry than to burn with passion. … 28 But even if you do marry, you have not sinned; and if a virgin marries, she has not sinned. Nevertheless such will have TROUBLE IN THE FLESH, but I WOULD SPARE YOU. … 32But I want you to be without care. He who is UNMARRIED CARES FOR THE THINGS OF THE LORD—how he may PLEASE THE LORD. 33But HE WHO IS MARRIED CARES about the THINGS OF THE WORLD—how he may PLEASE HIS WIFE. … 38So then he who GIVES HER IN MARRIAGE DOES WELL, but he WHO DOES NOT GIVE HER IN MARRIAGE DOES BETTER. …” (1 Corinthians 7:7 – 9, 28, 32 – 33, 38, NKJV)
A common myth Christians believe is that they can do what is “not” Written. For example, the Bible Verses here clearly compare (and hence we must too in Obedience) the Married Vs Unmarried option and realize that no one can do against what is Written namely, a total heart of servitude toward the Lord can only be PERFECTED via being UNMARRIED as the Verses above concludes as “Does Better” (all other factors held constant).
The Human Heart is Deceitful and don’t like it if others can exceed you, and so if they’re married, few are selfless to admit this Biblical Truth in these Verses to give an encouragement for others to get closer to God by “Choice” (and God’s Will if He enables them) after reading these Verses. We always want to praise our ways.
In short, if being “unmarried” to serve the COMMANDS of GOD in some way is Praised in these Verses and proven as a great trait for the 144000 even, then God having no Partiality must likewise imply such closeness to God among the other ranks of the Kingdom too likewise. The focus here is to get Closer and Closer to God even in the decisions such as Married Vs Unmarried which can affect it as these Verses clearly Prove “as it is Written”.
A detailed explanation with “Verses” regarding the 144000 is in a latter part in a previous link below:
https://www.facebook.com/651792783/posts/10160951789947784/
The phrase “Left WIFE” in Christ’s Own Definition of the HUNRDREDFOLD Reward in Matthew 19:29 below may imply this Truth in the Context of being “Unmarried” / “Having to leave spouse” to obey “Gospel Commands”:
“… 27Then Peter answered and said to Him, “See, we have LEFT ALL and FOLLOWED YOU. Therefore what shall we have?” 28So Jesus said to them, “Assuredly I say to you, that in the REGENERATION, when the Son of Man sits on the throne of His glory, you who have followed Me will also sit on TWELVE THRONES, judging the twelve tribes of Israel. 29And EVERYONE who has LEFT HOUSES or brothers or sisters or father or mother or WIFE or children or LANDS, for MY NAME’S SAKE, shall RECEIVE a HUNDREDFOLD, and INHERIT ETERNAL LIFE. 30But MANY who are FIRST will be LAST, and the LAST FIRST. …” (Matthew 19:27 – 30, NKJV)
Please notice the word “Hundredfold” carefully in Verses above.
First Christianity quotes agrees to this likewise as taught, to quote (examples):
- Agrapha Quotes (Agrapha is Quotes attributed to Christ but not found in the Bible)
Is the Nazarene Way Exhorted by Christ Himself Outside of the Gospel Records? (Matthew 19:21, Matthew 19:27 – 30)
Agrapha Proof regarding the “Hundredfold or Sixty Fold” Lifestyle of the Unmarried Nazarene Way stated by Christ as Quoted by Various Earliest Church Leaders regarding what we discussed prior as the ‘Perfect Nazarene Way’, to quote:
“… And again the Lord says: Let the one who has married not be cast out, and let the one who has not married not marry. He who has confessed that he will not marry according to his decision of eunuchhood, let him remain unmarried….” – Blessed St. Clement of Alexandria, Head of the Cathecathical School At Alexandria (c. 150 AD – c. 215 AD, Miscellanies 3.15)
“… For He [Lord] says: Ask for the great things, and the little things* will be added unto you…” – Blessed St. Clement of Alexandria, Head of the Cathecathical School At Alexandria (c. 150 AD – c. 215 AD, Miscellanies 1.24)
*Great things refer to ‘Heavenly/Spiritual Rewards’ while ‘Little things’ must refer to earthly things I think.
“… My mystery is for Me and for the sons of My house…” – Blessed St. Clement of Alexandria, Head of the Cathecathical School At Alexandria (c. 150 AD – c. 215 AD, Miscellanies 5.10)
Source for Each “Agrapha ” Quote above:
https://web.archive.org/web/20080215124232/http://www.textexcavation.com/agrapha.html
- Churches of the East
“… For there are two ways in life, as touching these matters. The one the more moderate and ordinary, I mean marriage; the other angelic and unsurpassed, namely virginity. Now if a man choose the way of the world, namely marriage, he is not indeed to blame; yet he will not receive such great gifts as the other. For he will receive, since he too brings forth fruit, namely thirtyfold. But if a man embrace the holy and unearthly way, even though, as compared with the former, it be rugged and hard to accomplish, yet it has the more wonderful gifts: for it grows the perfect fruit, namely an hundredfold…” – Blessed St. Athanasius the Great (c. 296 AD – c. 373 AD, Letter XLVIII.—Letter to Amun4583. Written before 354 AD via Philip Schaff, Pages 971 – 972)
Source: http://mb-soft.com/believe/txuc/athana49.htm
So in the Churches of the East, according to St. Athanasius the Great (who is often called the ‘father of orthodoxy’ from ancient theological standpoint itself – hence he may be communicating Mysteries of the Gospel kept by Sacred Tradition as even agreeing to other early Church Leader’s quote as discussed in a previous posts), we have the following in regards to ‘Spiritual Distinction’ based on ‘Marriage’, when obedience and other factors are held constant (based on Matthew 13:8):
“Married” = Thirty-Fold Fruit
“Unmarried” = Hundred-Fold Fruit
iii. Churches of the West
First Christianity in the West – Regarding Married vs Unmarried
Example – (St. Cyprian is Particularly Exhorting this Great Reward Opportunity by ‘free will choice’ especially toward ‘women virgins’ and ‘male eunuchs’ in the context of the ‘better final habitation in His Kingdom’ – perhaps as Bishops Papias & St. Irenaeous have said that the Lord referred to this ‘thirty, sixty and hundred fold fruits’ toward a dwelling Mansion in ‘the New Jerusalem City, Paradise and Heavens’ respectively), to quote:
“… By this pathway the martyrs progress, the virgins pass, the just of all kinds advance. Avoid the broad and roomy ways. There are deadly snares and death-bringing pleasures; there the devil flatters, that he may deceive; smiles, that he may do mischief; entices, that he may slay. The first fruit for the martyrs is a hundred-fold; the second is yours, sixty-fold… The ascent to great things is not easy. What toil we suffer, what labour, when we endeavour to ascend the hills and the tops of mountains! What, then, that we may ascend to heaven?… and thy desire shall be to thy husband, and he shall rule over thee.” You are free from this sentence. You do not fear, the sorrows and the groans of women. You have no fear of child-bearing; nor is your husband lord over you; but your Lord and Head is Christ, after the likeness and in the place of the man; with that of men your lot and your condition is equal… and of the resurrection from the dead, neither marry nor are given in marriage: neither shall they die any more: for they are equal to the angels of God, being the children of the resurrection.” [3166] That which we shall be, you have already begun to be. You possess already in this world the glory of the resurrection. You pass through the world without the contagion of the world; in that you continue chaste and virgins, you are equal to the angels of God. Only let your virginity remain and endure substantial and uninjured; and as it began bravely, let it persevere continuously, and not seek the ornaments of necklaces nor garments, but of conduct. … The first decree commanded to increase and to multiply; the second enjoined continency. … living after the manner of eunuchs, are made eunuchs unto the kingdom. Nor does the Lord command this, but He exhorts it; nor does He impose the yoke of necessity, since the free choice of the will is left. But when He says that in His Father’s house are many mansions, He points out the dwellings of the better habitation. Those better habitations you are seeking; cutting away the desires of the flesh, you obtain the reward of a greater grace in the heavenly home…” – Blessed St. Cyprian of Carthage, Martyr for Christ (c. 200 AD – c. 258 AD, Points 21, 22, 23, Treatise II. [3127] On the Dress of Virgins)
Source: http://mb-soft.com/believe/txu/cyprian5.htm
In St. Cyprian’s quote above:
“Unmarried” = Sixty-Fold Fruit and “Martyrs” = Hundred-Fold Fruit
Implying automatically by comparison of a ‘better final habitation/way’ that the ‘rest’ (“married”) = Thirty-Fold Fruit as even other Early Church Leaders including St. Augustine has pointed out (posts prior).
- iv) Marriage is not sin but if you marry you Lose a Spiritual Reward
Blessed St. Athanasius’ quote and St. Cyprian’s quote seem to point to some “loss of reward” if a Christian “marries” which is also taught in the Ancient Irish Christian Tradition too, to quote:
“… 28. But and if thou marry, thou hast not sinned ; and if a vir gin marry, she hath not sinned. Nevertheless such shall have trouble in the flesh : but I spare you. trouble. — The troubles of the world will not be taken from thee, viz., the bearing of children, and nursing, and, HARDEST of ALL, the LOSS of REWARD [hereafter]. 38. So then he that giveth her in marriage doeth well ; but he that giveth her not in marriage doeth better. giveth her. — He manifests here the difference between marriage and celibacy ; for when of marriage it is said (v. 36) ” he sinneth not,” of the celibate he says, ” he doetli well : ” but when he says of MARRIAGE, ” he DOETH WELL,” he says of CELIBACY, ” he DOETH BETTER.”…” Old Irish Gloss (Commentary on 1 Corinthians 7, Verses 28 and 38)
Source:
https://sites.google.com/site/aquinasstudybible/home/1-corinthians/old-irish-gloss-on-1-corinthians
*Celibacy = Not Marrying = being “Unmarried”
- v) Other Ways?
So, certainly these are “known Ways from First Christianity” regarding how one can be a “thirty, sixty and hundred fold” fruit “according to the Rules of the Gospel” (2 Timothy 2:5) while if there be any other way as God Wills, so be it (please note that I’m not saying that there are other ways but stating it as a possibility only as I prefer to stick with that which has been taught by at least one early Church leader only as discussed prior).
Thus these “Ancient Paths” may be the Best available Ways for any Christian or a new believer to attain to the Best as they can (as a mistake here could mean an ‘eternal loss’ of rewards likewise, so why take the unnecessary risk by ‘trying new ways’?)
“Thus says the LORD, “Stand by the ways and see and ask for the ANCIENT PATHS, Where the GOOD WAY is, and walk in it; And you will find REST for YOUR SOULS. But they said, ‘We will not walk in it.'” (Jeremiah 6:16, NASB)
Warning: If anyone boasts just because he/she is a virgin in a “state of purity” for Christ, such a person can lose this reward entirely being “undone”. Also, if he/she is thinks that they are greater than a Bishop because of this, likewise such a one may be “ruined”. So, please be “Wise” as the Great First Christianity Saint below says, to quote:
“… If any one can continue in a STATE of PURITY, to the honour of Him who is Lord of the flesh, let him so REMAIN WITHOUT BOASTING. If he begins to BOAST, he is UNDONE; and if he reckon himself GREATER than the BISHOP, he is RUINED. But it becomes both men and women who marry, to form their union with the approval of the bishop, that their marriage may be according to God, and not after their own lust. Let all things be done to the honour of God….” – Blessed St. Ignatius, Bishop of Antioch, an Apostolic Father of the Church being a Direct Disciple of the Blessed St. John the Apostle (c. 35 AD – c. 108 AD)
Source (Chapter 5): https://www.newadvent.org/fathers/0110.htm
- vi) Summary- Ranking in His Kingdom without Jealousy nor looking down on others
“… God’s holy church holds marriage sacred and honors married persons, for “Marriage is honorable and the bed undefiled.” 8 (6) < But > it regards continence as the most admirable, and commends it because it is engaged in the contest and has despised the world, as being still more powerful [than the world]. And the church believes in virginity and accords it the highest honor, because it is a thing of virtue and is fitted with the lightest wing. (7) The church has members who have renounced the world and yet are not contemptuous of those who are still in the world; they rejoice in the very great piety of such persons, as did the apostles who owned nothing themselves, < and yet did not look down on the others* >. (8) And the Savior himself owned no earthly possessions when he came in the flesh, though he was Lord of all — and yet he did not reject the women who assisted his disciples and himself. The Gospel says, “women which followed him from Galilee, ministering unto him of their substance.” 9 4,1 [If no one may own property], what is the point of “Hither to my right hand, ye blessed, for whom my heavenly Father hath prepared the kingdom before the foundation of the world. For I was an hungered, and ye gave me meat; thirsty, and ye gave me drink; I was naked, and ye clothed me?” 10 (2) How could they do these things except with [the fruits of] their honest labor, and their righteously acquired possessions? 4,3 And if these people < who > have made their own renunciation and live like the apostles would mix with the rest [of us], their ways would not seem strange, or foreign to God’s ordinance. (4) And if they renounced wives for the sake of continence their choice would be praiseworthy, provided that they did not call marriage unclean, and provided that they treated the < still > married as comrades, knowing the limitation and the rank of each. 4,5 For God’s ship takes any passenger except a bandit…” – Blessed St. Epiphanius of Salamis (c. 310 AD – c. 403 AD, ‘Apostolics’, “Panarion”, Points 3.5 – 4.5, Pages 118 – 119)
Source:
Note: St. Ephiphanius and other saints here such as St. Clement of Alexandria or St. Ignatius of Antioch all do ‘not’ have any prayers to Virgin Mary or the saints in their writings and so Protestants may consider them to know these teachings.
vii) St. Jerome and St. Augustine also agree
To quote:
“… And brings forth some an hundredfold, &c. “We must observe,” says S. Jerome, “that like as in the bad ground there were three different sorts—namely, by the wayside, the rocky, and the thorny places—so in the good ground there is a threefold diversity. And in the one as well as in the other, it is not the substance which is changed, but the will; and so it is the heart of the unbelieving as well as of the believing which receives the seed.” Moreover, the greatest fruit of God’s Word, as it were the greatest fruit of seed is a hundredfold, as if from a single grain a harvest of a hundred grains were gathered, as was Isaac’s case (Gen. xxvi. 12). The medium fruit is called sixtyfold; the lowest thirtyfold. A definite number is put for an indefinite; otherwise He might have added, brings forth some fortyfold, some twenty fold, and so on. Whence, in opposition to Jovinian and Calvin, the inequality of merit and consequently of the reward, of good works in Heaven is rightly proved. So S. Chrysostom (Hom. 45), S. Augustine (de S. Virgin. c. 46), Nazianzen (Orat. 28), and others. For the Fathers, however Calvin may deride and exclaim, apply these words especially to diverse states. 1. S. Jerome, on this passage (lib. 1, contra Jovin), and S. Athanasius (Epist. ad Ammon.), and others assign the hundredfold fruit to virgins; the sixtyfold to widows; the thirtyfold to those who live in honest and holy wedlock. 2. S. Cyprian (l. de Hab. Virg.) and S. Augustine (l. 1, de quest. Evang. quest. 9, tom 4) assign the hundredfold to martyrs, the sixty to virgins, the thirtyfold to those who are married. Hear what S. Augustine says: “I assert that the hundredfold belongs to martyrs, on account of their holiness of life, or contempt of death; the sixty fold to virgins, on account of interior quiet, because they do not need to fight against fleshly habits—for rest is wont to be granted to soldiers who are past sixty years of age; the thirtyfold to the married, because thirty is the age of warriors—for those have a sharper conflict, that they may not be overcome of lust.”3. Euthymius and Theophylact assign the thirtyfold to beginners, the sixty to those who have made some progress, the hundredfold to the perfect. So also Nazianzen (Orat. 28.) When a man proceeds, saith he, from thirty to sixty, he finishes with a hundred, as Isaac did (Gen. xxvi.) And he sings the Psalms of Degrees, going from strength to strength, and placing the Ascensions in his heart (Ps. 84.)…” – Cornelius Bible Commentary
Source: http://www.corneliusbiblecommentary.faithweb.com/13matth.htm
The ‘thirty, sixty & hundredfold’ Mystery as ‘Married, Widowed & Virgin’ Christians
To quote:
“… My seed shall produce fruit a hundredfold – the reward of virginity is hundredfold; of widowhood, sixtyfold, and of married life, thirtyfold. “All cannot receive the Word of God but only they to whom it is given” (Mt 19:11). Let others be eunuchs of necessity, but I [am chaste] of my own will. … Let them sew robes who have previously lost the unsown robe…” ….” – Blessed St. Jerome of the Vulgate, Second Latin Doctor of the Church who did the First Official Translation of the Bible out of Its Original Languages into Latin, Priest, Confessor, Secretary to Pope Damasus I (c. 347 AD – c. 420 AD, ‘Quotes on Marriage & Viginity’)
Source: https://www.traditioninaction.org/religious/n093_Virginity.htm
and
“… What then? do I condemn second marriages? not at all; but I commend first ones. Do I expel twice-married persons from the church? Far from it; but I urge those who have been once married to lives of continence. The Ark of Noah contained unclean animals as well as clean. It contained both creeping things and human beings. In a great house there are vessels of different kinds, some to honour and some to dishonour. In the gospel parable the seed sown in the good ground brings forth fruit, some an hundredfold, some sixtyfold, some thirtyfold. The hundredfold which comes first betokens the crown of virginity; the sixtyfold which comes next refers to the work of widows; while the thirtyfold — indicated by joining together the points of the thumb and forefinger — denotes the marriage-tie. What room is left for double marriages? None. They are not counted. Such weeds do not grow in good ground but among briers and thorns, the favourite haunts of those foxes to whom the Lord compares the impious Herod. A woman who marries more than once fancies herself worthy of praise because she is not so bad as the prostitutes, because she compares favourably with these victims of indiscriminate lust by surrendering herself to one alone and not to a number…” ….” – Blessed St. Jerome of the Vulgate, Second Latin Doctor of the Church who did the First Official Translation of the Bible out of Its Original Languages into Latin, Priest, Confessor, Secretary to Pope Damasus I (c. 347 AD – c. 420 AD, ‘Letter cxxiii. To Ageruchia’)
Source:
https://biblehub.com/library/jerome/the_principal_works_of_st_jerome/letter_cxxiii_to_ageruchia.htm
or
“… Now any one may object to this interpretation, and may give another which harmonizes with the rule of faith. For as the ark was to have rooms not only on the lower, but also on the upper storeys, which were called ” third storeys,” that there might be a habitable space on the third floor from the basement, some one may interpret these to mean the three graces commended by the apostle, — ^faith, hope, and charity. Or even more suitably they may be supposed to represent those three harvests in the gospel, thirtyfold, sixtyfold, an hundredfold, — chaste marriage dwelling in the ground floor, chaste widowhood in the upper, and chaste virginity in the top storey. Or any better interpretation may be given, so long as the reference to this city is maintained…” – Blessed St. Augustine of Hippo, Doctor of the Church, who influenced virtually all of subsequent Western philosophy and Catholic theology, as well as a significant amount of Protestant theology (c. 354 AD – c. 430 AD,, Book XV, ‘City of God’, Page 99)
Source:
https://archive.org/stream/cityofgodvolumet009439mbp/cityofgodvolumet009439mbp_djvu.txt
Peace to you
Doctrine of Sanctification Mystery – God Sanctifies His Chosen
1) Is the Doctrine of Sanctification against the Work of Atonement of Christ in the Cross?
No, in Verses below Describing Christ’s Atonement, it’s clearly Written that the Doctrine of “Sanctification” follows as an Act of “making them Perfect” as Christ Leads them as the True Meaning of the Ancient Verse of being “Born Again” (spiritually) having “His Law Written in out hearts & minds” for the “New Covenant”:
“… 14For by ONE OFFERING HE HAS PERFECTED forever those who are being [d]SANCTIFIED. 15But the Holy Spirit also witnesses to us; for after He had said before, 16“This is THE COVENANT that I will make with them after those days, says the Lord: I WILL PUT MY LAWS INTO THEIR HEARTS, and in THEIR MINDS I WILL WRITE THEM,” 17then He adds, “Their sins and their lawless deeds I will remember no more.” 18Now where there is [e]remission of these, there is no longer an offering for sin. …” (Hebrews 10:14 – 17, NKJV)
2) Doctrine of Sanctification is to let Christ Live in us
Apostle St. Paul wrote against adding the ritualistic Jewish Rituals of the Torah to the Work of Christ. However he also wrote about keeping holy and practicing the Charity Doctrine Commands and so these are “not” considered adding to the Work of Christ but rather LETTING CHRIST WORK THROUGH YOU TO FULFILL GOD’S WILL in these aspects as Verse below reveals:
“… 12Therefore, my beloved, as you have ALWAYS OBEYED, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, WORK OUT YOUR OWN SALVATION with fear and trembling; 13for it is GOD WHO WORKS IN YOU both TO WILL AND TO DO for His good pleasure. …” (Philippians 2:12 – 13, NKJV)
Can you see it?
So “not” doing these New Testament Commands or others means that we are “self-willed” at those times instead of “Letting Christ Live through us Fulfilling His Written Will via His Commands”.
3) What Acts are the Doctrine of Sanctification?
- i) Prayer and Any Obedience to His New Testament Commands
“… for it is SANCTIFIED BY THE WORD OF GOD and PRAYER. …” (1 Timothy 4:5, NKJV)
- ii) Sanctified by His Word refers to DOING HIS NEW TESTAMENT COMMANDS
“… SANCTIFY them by Your truth. YOUR WORD is truth. …” (John 17:17, NKJV)
“… BLESSED are those who DO HIS COMMANDMENTS, that they may have the RIGHT TO THE TREE OF LIFE, and may ENTER THROUGH THE GATES INTO THE CITY. …” (Revelation 22:14, NKJV)
In full:
“… 12“And behold, I am coming quickly, and My reward is with Me, to give to every one according to his work. 13I am the Alpha and the Omega, the [f]Beginning and the End, the First and the Last.” 14BLESSED ARE THOSE WHO [G]DO HIS COMMANDMENTS, that they may have the right to the TREE OF LIFE, and may ENTER THROUGH THE GATES INTO THE CITY. 15[h]But OUTSIDE are dogs and sorcerers and sexually immoral and murderers and idolaters, and whoever loves and practices a lie. 16“I, Jesus, have sent My angel to testify to you these things in the churches. I am the Root and the Offspring of David, the Bright and Morning Star.” …” (Revelation 22:14 – 16, NKJV)
“… just as Christ also loved the church and gave Himself for her, 26that He MIGHT [G]SANCTIFY and CLEANSE HER WITH THE WASHING OF WATER by THE WORD, 27that He might present her to Himself a glorious church, not having spot or wrinkle or any such thing, but that she should be holy and without blemish. …” (Ephesians 5:25 – 27, NKJV)
Note: Sanctification by the WRITTEN WORD (Obeying the Bible part): “… CLEANSE HER WITH THE WASHING OF WATER by THE WORD …”
iii) Almsgiving and Charity Works are also part of the Doctrine of Sanctification for this New Testament
ALMS = CHARITY for DOCTRINE OF SANCTIFICATION too, Verses:
“… 39Then the Lord said to him, “Now you Pharisees make the OUTSIDE OF THE CUP and DISH CLEAN, but YOUR INWARD PART is full of [k]GREED and WICKEDNESS. 40FOOLISH ones! Did not He who made the outside make the inside also? 41But rather GIVE ALMS of [l]SUCH THINGS AS YOU HAVE; then indeed ALL THINGS ARE CLEAN TO YOU. 42“But woe to you Pharisees! For you tithe mint and rue and all manner of herbs, and pass by JUSTICE and the LOVE of GOD These you ought to have done, without leaving the others undone. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 11:39 – 45, NKJV)
Acts of Sanctification in New Testament Scripture is not “falling from Grace” nor is it prohibited in New Testament times but rather we are to do it as God Leads us. Which better Man of God example would there be than Apostle St. Paul himself to prove this in action? Why?
Even Apostle St. Paul (the real Inspired Author of “Saved by Faith/Grace Doctrine or Sola Fide) Practiced it for PURIFICATION in the NEW TESTAMENT, Verses:
“… 14But this I confess to you, that according to the Way which they call a sect, so I WORSHIP THE GOD OF MY FATHERS, BELIEVING ALL THINGS which are WRITTEN IN THE LAW AND IN THE PROPHETS. 15I have hope in God, which they themselves also accept, that there will be a resurrection [e]of the dead, both of the just and the unjust. 16This being so, I myself always strive to have a conscience without offense toward God and men. 17“NOW AFTER MANY YEARS I CAME to BRING ALMS AND OFFERINGS TO MY NATION, 18in the midst of which some Jews from Asia FOUND ME PURIFIED IN THE TEMPLE, neither with a mob nor with tumult. 19They ought to have been here before you to object if they had anything against me. 20Or else let those who are here themselves say [f]if they found any wrongdoing in me while I stood before the council, 21unless it is for this one statement which I cried out, standing among them, ‘Concerning the resurrection of the dead I am being judged by you this day.’ ” …” – Blessed St. Paul the Great Apostle of Christ (Acts of the Apostles, 24:14 – 21, NKJV)
Yes, even your sins are covered from Judgment if you love:
“… And above all things have fervent love for one another, for “LOVE will COVER a MULTITUDE OF SINS.” …”(1 Peter 4:8, NKJV)
“… Therefore I say to you, HER SINS, which are MANY, ARE FORGIVEN, for SHE LOVED MUCH. But to whom little is forgiven, the same loves little. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 7:47, NKJV)
Blessed are the Churches and Christians who do “all” these Acts of Sanctification based on His New Testament Commands as it is Written.
Peace to you
The “Doctrine of Sanctification” only works in “Cleansing us” if and only if we “Obey His Written Word” as these Verses Testify:
“…. 9How can a young man cleanse his way?
By taking heed according to Your word.
10With my whole heart I have sought You;
Oh, let me not wander from Your commandments!
11Your word I have hidden in my heart,
That I might not sin against You. …” (Psalm 119:9 – 11, NKJV)
So please do “not” ignore “New Testament” Commands which are for our “Sanctification” and that’s why the Great Commission is only complete when we Teach them what “CHRIST COMMANDED” (and not our opinions against these Verses) as fulfilling the “… Teach them to observe ALL that I COMMANDED YOU …” part of the ‘Great Commission’ (Matthew 28:20), Verse:
“… 18And Jesus came and spoke to them, saying, “All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. 19Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20TEACHING THEM TO OBSERVE ALL THINGS THAT I HAVE COMMANDED YOU; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” Amen. …” (Matthew 28:18 – 20, NKJV)
Here is a simple Biblical Logic: If the early Church was “Sanctified” by “Obeying New Testament Bible Verses”, then now you are being sanctified by doing OPPOSITE to these Bible Verses? So that means you are saying that God is Sanctifying you with the OPPOSITE to those WRITTEN NEW TESTAMENT VERSES/RULES?TRADITIONS? Let God Decide if you “claim” so but it sounds “risky” for me and I will choose the “narrow path” which is Obedience to these New Testament Verses despite of our failure to do so many times.
Perhaps that’s why it’s Written that “… Obedience is Better than Sacrifice …” (1 Samuel 15:22).
Peace to you
Singleness vs Marriage in the New Covenant – God’s Will or a Choice?
Please consider the Q&A below:
Q1) God’s Will is Marriage – God has expressly given us His mind on the matter. He wants married men and women to have children, and do a plethora of other things as they raise them. This isn’t a confusing subject in the least bit, and frankly, you’re just evading a plain command given and enshrined as a Creation ordinance. Secondly, as I mentioned above, it is quite telling that you are avoiding v. 10 in 1 Cor. 7, which again, indicates that celibacy is not the norm anticipated for humankind.
“… Then God blessed them, and God said to them, “Be fruitful and multiply; fill the earth and subdue it; have dominion over the fish of the sea, over the birds of the air, and over every living thing that moves on the earth.” …” (Genesis 1:28, NKJV)
R1) Only 1 Corinthians 7:38 compares marriage Vs singleness (not the verses you quoted, that’s out of context which just mentions about marriage). If the Bible has compared it as a choice and stated which is better, better to obey it as it is Written.
New Covenant, the Holy Spirit Says:
“… 7For I WISH THAT ALL MEN WERE EVEN as I MYSELF. But each one has his own gift from God, one in this manner and another in that. 8But I say to the UNMARRIED AND TO THE WIDOWS: IT IS GOOD FOR THEM IF THEY REMAIN EVEN AS I AM; 9but if they cannot exercise self-control, let them marry. For it is better to marry than to burn with passion. … 28 But even if you do marry, you have not sinned; and if a virgin marries, she has not sinned. Nevertheless such will have TROUBLE IN THE FLESH, but I WOULD SPARE YOU. … 32But I want you to be without care. He who is UNMARRIED CARES FOR THE THINGS OF THE LORD—how he may PLEASE THE LORD. 33But HE WHO IS MARRIED CARES about the THINGS OF THE WORLD—how he may PLEASE HIS WIFE. … 38So then he who GIVES HER IN MARRIAGE DOES WELL, but he WHO DOES NOT GIVE HER IN MARRIAGE DOES BETTER. …” (1 Corinthians 7:7 – 9, 28, 32 – 33, 38, NKJV)
Q2) Having to wait is a vastly different thing than willful delay for worldly pursuits. Secondly, none of these verses imply the delay of having children, but rather, a fiduciary responsibility and wisdom throughout one’s life so as to provide for their own. In other words, they do not necessitate nor even imply one should wait to bear children.
R2) As I said, if God Wanted them to have kids, it will be proven by these Providence Verses quoted.
Old Covenant Verses on Parenting (well Abraham himself had to wait till he was old too):
“… HOUSES AND RICHES are an INHERITANCE FROM FATHERS, But a prudent wife is from the LORD …” (Proverbs 19:14, NKJV)
“… A GOOD MAN leaves an INHERITANCE to his CHILDREN’S CHILDREN, …” (Proverbs 13:22, NKJV)
Do these Parenting Principles apply in the New Covenant?
Yes, Verse:
“… For the CHILDREN OUGHT NOT TO LAY UP FOR THE PARENTS, BUT THE PARENTS FOR THE CHILDREN. …” (2 Corinthians 12:14, NKJV)
So, how many of them leave inheritance to their children’s children? Also regarding singleness the New Testament Verses in 1 Corinthians 7:38 and all that already make it clear that it’s better than marriage and the Holy Spirit of God Says in those Verses that He wishes them to Remain so as Apostle Paul points but he allows marriage as a choice. Now each choice has a responsibility and these other Bible Verses need to be fulfilled.
Maybe God wants them to wait. No one can say who is waiting or rushing. You could be encouraging people to rush to marriage or having children instead of waiting. The indicator would be to fulfill those Bible Verses about marriage regardless if one marries early or late which will ultimately prove whether they married by God’s Will or self will which God allows by His Mercy but incurs Judgment the same way say King David married Bathsheba.
Q3) I find it very telling you leave out v. 10 here, especially as that frames things in favor of the dominion mandate rather than the modernized push towards singleness/celibacy being the norm.
R3) There’s no dominion mandate for the New Covenant. The New Covenant even teaches to leave father, mother wife, etc. (Family) if you want to fulfill the Perfection Commands in Matthew 19:29 by Christ Himself, Verse:
“… 27Then Peter answered and said to Him, “See, we have LEFT ALL and FOLLOWED YOU. Therefore what shall we have?” 28So Jesus said to them, “Assuredly I say to you, that in the REGENERATION, when the Son of Man sits on the throne of His glory, you who have followed Me will also sit on twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel. 29And EVERYONE who has LEFT HOUSES or brothers or sisters or father or mother or WIFE or children or LANDS, for MY NAME’S SAKE, shall RECEIVE a HUNDREDFOLD, and INHERIT ETERNAL LIFE. 30But MANY who are FIRST will be LAST, and the LAST FIRST. …” (Matthew 19:27 – 30, NKJV)
Even if one has a wife, it’s better to live as though one has none in the Context of focusing on the Gospel
“… But this I say, brethren, the time is short, so that from now on even those who have wives should be as though they had none, …” (1 Corinthians 7:29, NKJV)
You’re too worldly minded when when you push the norm of having kids which is what is taught by the world even if one cannot provide properly.
The only Bible Way is to Populate the earth if you can provide. Even Abraham had only one Promised son and the “mandate of dominion” you are quoting from Genesis is primarily to the Jews who ironically are also about one of the “smallest people groups in number” proving my claims right again as Jews are smart enough not to ignore the other Verses and have children only according to the Income Providence God Gives as these quoted Verses Testify.
I quoted Christ and the New testament and the Old Testament (All of it).
Also, the 144 000 highest FirstFruit of God are mentioned to be “Virgins” who “never married” explicitly. So, if this aspect is not important, why is the Bible Praising them for this in Verses below?
“… 1Then I looked, and behold, [a]a Lamb standing on Mount Zion, and WITH HIM ONE HUNDRED AND FORTY-FOUR THOUSAND, [b]having His Father’s name written on their foreheads. … . 3They sang as it were a new song before the throne, before the four living creatures, and the elders; and no one could learn that song except the HUNDRED AND FORTY-FOUR THOUSAND who were redeemed from the earth. 4These are the ones WHO WERE NOT DEFILED WITH WOMEN, FOR THEY ARE VIRGINS. These are the ones who follow the Lamb wherever He goes. These were [c]redeemed from among men, being FIRSTFRUITS to God and to the Lamb …” (Revelation 14:1, 3 – 4, NKJV)
Only after mentioning these 144,000 the Bible (in Revelation 7:1 – 8 first) mentions the rest of the Saved as follows (which could be a mix of the rest of the thirty, sixty or even hundredfold fold type of faith):
“… 9After these things I looked, and behold, a great multitude which no one could number, of all nations, tribes, peoples, and tongues, standing before the throne and before the Lamb, clothed with white robes, with palm branches in their hands, 10and crying out with a loud voice, saying, “Salvation belongs to our God who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb!” …” (Revelation 7:9 – 10, NKJV)
Did you also notice the fascinating fact that the 144 000 are in the Holiest of the Holy together with those closest to God (and so we cannot be in that Place) in the “Throne Room of God” with the “24 Elders” and “the four Living Creatures”:
” … 3They [The 144000] sang as it were a new song before the throne, before the four living creatures, and the elders; …” (Revelation 14:3, NKJV)
These are the only ones mentioned in the Throne Room of God, example Verses for comparison:
“… 9Whenever the living creatures give glory and honor and thanks to Him who sits on the throne, who lives forever and ever, 10the twenty-four elders fall down before Him who sits on the throne and worship Him who lives forever and ever, and cast their crowns before the throne, saying:
11“You are worthy, [g]O Lord,
To receive glory and honor and power;
For You created all things,
And by Your will they [h]exist and were created.” …” (Revelation 4:9 – 11, NKJV)
The Best Verse to Prove that Marriage is part of “this world which is passing away” is this (especially the phrase “… those who have wives should be as though they had none …” which is quoted in the context of “… For the form of this world is passing away. …” in Verses below):
“… 29But this I say, brethren, the time is short, so that from now on even those who have wives should be as though they had none, 30those who weep as though they did not weep, those who rejoice as though they did not rejoice, those who buy as though they did not possess, 31and those who use this world as not misusing it. For the form of this world is passing away. …” (1 Corinthians 7:29, NKJV)
God’s Will is Eternal Things. Marriage is “not” eternal but a transition due to the fall only. That’s why there are NO ETERNAL MARRIAGES as per Verses below by CHRIST HIMSELF (please notice the phrase “… NEITHER MARRY NOR ARE GIVEN IN MARRIAGE …” carefully by Christ Himself below):
“… 34JESUS ANSWERED and said to them, “The sons of this age marry and are given in marriage. 35But those who are counted worthy to attain that AGE (Aeon/Olam), and the resurrection from the dead (Revelation 20:4 – 6), NEITHER MARRY NOR ARE GIVEN IN MARRIAGE; 36nor can they die anymore, for they are equal to the angels and are sons of God, being sons of the resurrection. …” (Luke 20:34 – 36, NKJV)
Peace to you
Deepest Theology – COMPASSION is True Judgment
Christ Didn’t Embrace their sin and Pointed it out but always forgave and embraced them so that they always still have a chance of repentance.
Example “Verses” from CHRIST HIMSELF:
- i) Rebuke the “Brother” who sins part:
“… 3Take heed to yourselves. If your brother sins [c]against you, rebuke him; and if he repents, forgive him. 4And if he sins against you seven times in a day, and seven times in a day returns [d]to you, saying, ‘I repent,’ you shall forgive him …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 17:3 – 4, NKJV)
- ii) How many times to “forgive the same mistake/sin”?
Not 7 times but 70 x 7 = 490 times for the ‘same mistake’.
“… 21Then Peter came to Him and said, “Lord, how often shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? Up to seven times?” 22Jesus said to him, “I do not say to you, up to seven times, but up to seventy times seven. … 33Should you not also have had COMPASSION on your fellow servant, JUST AS I HAD PITY ON YOU?’ 34And his master was angry, and delivered him to the torturers until he should pay all that was due to him. 35“So My heavenly Father also will do to you if each of you, from his heart, does not forgive his brother [g]his trespasses.” …” (Matthew 18:21 – 22, 33 – 35, NKJV)
Please notice carefully that we don’t have Forgiveness till we forgive those who trespass against us as Christ Himself Reveals Matthew 18:35. Did you also notice that how easily we forgive others or how hard we judge others (as per the parable part of this truth in Matthew 18:23 – 32, not quoted here, to focus on this part) is exactly how we will be judged for our sins likewise?
So, please use the sin of others against you wisely by forgiving easily with “no” Judgment toward them but rather show COMPASSION (please notice this word carefully as Christ Spoke it in Matthew 18:33 above) proving this DEEPEST THEOLOGY regarding JUDGMENT too. An ancient Old Testament Verse below Says it likewise calling MERCY as the TRUE JUDGMENT:
“… Thus speaketh the LORD of hosts, saying, Execute TRUE JUDGMENT, and SHEW MERCY and COMPASSIONS every man to his brother: 10And OPPRRESS NOT THE WIDOW, NOR THE FATHERLESS, THE STRANGER, NOR THE POOR; and let none of you IMAGINE EVIL AGAINST his brother in your heart. 11But they REFUSED TO HEARKEN, and pulled away the shoulder, and STOPPED THEIR EARS, that THEY SHOULD NOT HEAR. …” (Zechariah 7:9 – 11, NKJV)
Example: I have worked in a few places where people are “unmerciful” toward the mistakes of others due to “economic love of money reasons” disguised in “good will words which are fake” (as all ‘worldly business talk is like that’). What do I do in such cases? I quit and that’s I freelance around only sticking to places which doesn’t force me to be “unmerciful” toward students or others. The typical claim that ‘they have to be like that for the best interest of the student is about the biggest lie in Education as the real reason is that good results can be used for marketing & making more money while bad results reflect bad on them’. Furthermore, I always give these two points for those who want to debate this truth:
- i) Even if a professor of Cambridge comes and teaches them, their results will be the same as each person has their own limited ability in a field. And so, it’s okay as long as they did “their best” to the best of “their conscience”.
- ii) For other Adults who thinks otherwise, I always offer a free Add Maths or Math Olympiad Classes by the end of which I challenge them to get the “A score” or “full marks” that they are “forcing others to get”. Truth is, no matter how hard you study, if it’s beyond one’s ability, you cannot do it.
Conclusion
“Contentment” is accepting these Truths and building a life/career accordingly. Personally, I cannot solve a lot of very advanced Math Olympiad problems either or even do Masters in Maths or phD because I have “not” discovered anything new in the field nor could master the known advanced knowledge. And so, I just do what I can and relax as the Bible Teaches this Rule of “Contentment” without which our “godliness” doesn’t result in “Great Gain” in the Heavenly Kingdom (oh, what a loss!), Verses:
“… 6Now GODLINESS WITH CONTENTMENT IS GREAT GAIN. 7For we brought nothing into this world, [d]and it is certain we can carry nothing out. 8And HAVING FOOD AND CLOTHING, WITH THESE WE SHALL BE CONTENT. 9But those who DESIRE TO BE RICH FALL into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and harmful lusts which drown men in destruction and perdition. …” (1 Timothy 6:6 – 9, NKJV)
Christ Taught this Same Principle in Verse below:
“… 24BLIND GUIDES, who STRAIN OUT A GNAT and SWALLOW A CAMEL! 25“Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you cleanse the outside of the cup and dish, but inside they are full of extortion and [l]self-indulgence. 26Blind Pharisee, first cleanse the inside of the cup and dish, that the outside of them may be clean also. …” (Matthew 23:24 – 26, NKJV)
How?
“… who STRAIN OUT A GNAT …” = In principle, forcing others to live out a high level achievement or difficult work on others or equivalent
“… and SWALLOW A CAMEL! …” = In principle, very easy on themselves where they themselves never achieved the things which they force others to do in this context.
What all these persons with advantage in life don’t realize is that if given on a fair plateau they wouldn’t even get what they have now but they have it because of racial advantage or equivalent while the good or better must be discriminated and used & abused by such so that they can be Rewarded greatly in the KINGDOM OF GOD as many verses Testify, Example:
“… I returned and saw under the sun that— The race is not to the swift, Nor the battle to the strong, Nor bread to the wise, Nor riches to men of understanding, Nor favor to men of skill; But time and chance happen to them all. …” (Ecclesiastes 9:11, NKJV)
Yes, this is what it means to be “PERSECUTED” for “RIGHTEOUSNESS” whenever we are discriminated in some way because we UPHOLD A BIBLE VERSE and not because of suffering for one’s own opinion which is “not Written”, and the Reward for such is to inherit the KINGDOM OF HEAVEN, Verse:
“… Blessed are those who are PERSECUTED for RIGHTEOUSNESS’ sake, For THEIRS is the KINGDOM OF HEAVEN. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 5:10, NKJV)
One last thing: please notice carefully that Christ Calls them as “24BLIND GUIDES” in Verse above (Matthew 23:24) toward those who live according to such worldly ways. May God Help us not to be BLIND to these Bible Verses and lose heavenly rewards as well as incur heavier Judgment all because of our own “strictness” which we “impose on others” but we ourselves never achieved anything like that in “Relative Measure” (God Knows All).
Peace to you
Mystery of the Good Fight of Faith to Ferraris of Faith – Are we Doing it according to the Bible Verses?
1) What is the Definition of the “Good Fight of Faith” as “it is Written”?
“… 3If ANYONE TEACHES OTHERWISE and does not consent to wholesome words, EVEN THE WORDS OF OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST, and to the [a]DOCTRINE WHICH ACCORDS WITH GODLINESS, 4he is proud, knowing nothing, but is obsessed with disputes and arguments over words, from which come envy, strife, reviling, evil suspicions, 5[b]useless wranglings of men of corrupt minds and destitute of the truth, WHO SUPPOSE THAT GODLINESS IS A MEANS OF GAIN. [c]From such withdraw yourself. 6Now GODLINESS WITH CONTENTMENT IS GREAT GAIN. 7For we brought nothing into this world, [d]and it is certain we can carry nothing out. 8And HAVING FOOD AND CLOTHING, WITH THESE WE SHALL BE CONTENT. 9But those who DESIRE TO BE RICH FALL into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and harmful lusts which drown men in destruction and perdition. 10For the LOVE OF MONEY is a ROOT OF ALL KINDS OF EVIL, for which some have STRAYED FROM THE FAITH in their greediness, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows. 11But you, O man of God, flee these things and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, gentleness. 12FIGHT THE GOOD FIGHT OF FAITH, LAY HOLD ON ETERNAL LIFE, to which you were also called and have confessed the good confession in the presence of many witnesses. …” (1 Timothy 6:6 – 12, NKJV)
Please notice the following carefully:
- i) The “Good Fight of Faith” is essential to attaining Eternal Life
“… 12FIGHT THE GOOD FIGHT OF FAITH, LAY HOLD ON ETERNAL LIFE, …”
- ii) The “Good Fight of Faith” does “not” Teach against any of Christ’s New Testament Commands either by Him Directly or the ones through His Apostles
“… 3If ANYONE TEACHES OTHERWISE and does not consent to wholesome words, EVEN THE WORDS OF OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST, and to the [a]DOCTRINE WHICH ACCORDS WITH GODLINESS, …”
iii) The “Good Fight of Faith” teaches a “Doctrine of Godliness” which has nothing to do with money prosperity nor materialism as blessing of God but rather teaches “Contentment” to accept whatever situation beyond having “food + clothing” only
“… 5[b]useless wranglings of men of corrupt minds and destitute of the truth, WHO SUPPOSE THAT GODLINESS IS A MEANS OF GAIN. [c]From such withdraw yourself. 6Now GODLINESS WITH CONTENTMENT IS GREAT GAIN. 7For we brought nothing into this world, [d]and it is certain we can carry nothing out. 8And HAVING FOOD AND CLOTHING, WITH THESE WE SHALL BE CONTENT. …”
Note: False Teachers always quote that a blessing of being “Holy/Godly” is to be partly “blessed with money/gain” but this Verse Warns strongly against such a teaching in the phrase “… WHO SUPPOSE THAT GODLINESS IS A MEANS OF GAIN. …”.
Comment: Political and Racism Christianity where they try to become financially rich by playing economic games thinking they are justified by playing out unbelievers or equivalent is certainly just another Version of “Greed or evil” but still for “self gain” as they don’t share with the poor of their own church even or if they share, it’s only tit-bits after they swallow a camel first (meaning they make big money for themselves first before giving out so little if they give) as Christ Warned of such attitude in the Pharisees too in analogy as follows:
“… 24Blind guides, who STRAIN OUT A GNAT and SWALLOW A CAMEL! 25“Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you cleanse the outside of the cup and dish, but inside they are full of extortion and [l]self-indulgence. 26Blind Pharisee, first cleanse the inside of the cup and dish, that the outside of them may be clean also. …” (Matthew 23:24 – 26, NKJV)
Example: “… STRAIN OUT A GNAT …” = when it Comes to others, they are “not” generous or make use of them maximally in any way they can while “… SWALLOW A CAMEL! …” means when it comes to their needs or desires, they take bountifully for personal use say out of God’s Money or Personal Money to enjoy luxury/prosperity or equivalent in “self indulgence”. Can you see it?
Christ Didn’t End there as in the ‘Same Context’ or ‘Same Topic’ above of keeping the “Outside Holiness but inside unclean” due to such prosperity lifestyles of maximizing using others for oneself while minimising the giving of oneself to serve others financially or beyond, i.e. in “greed” (collecting Maximum money profits for themselves) and “self indulgence” (spending much on themselves and personal vanity enjoyments), the ONLY WAY CHRIST HIMSELF COMMANDS TO CLEAN oneself of this is to GIVE ALMS/CHARITY, Verses:
“… 39Then the Lord said to him, “Now you Pharisees make the OUTSIDE OF THE CUP and DISH CLEAN, but YOUR INWARD PART is full of [k]GREED and WICKEDNESS. 40FOOLISH ones! Did not He who made the outside make the inside also? 41But rather GIVE ALMS of [l]SUCH THINGS AS YOU HAVE; then indeed ALL THINGS ARE CLEAN TO YOU. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 11:39 – 41, NKJV)
- iv) The “Good Fight of Faith” is to have a faith which doesn’t desire to be rich. Yes even such a “desire” is said to be “sin” such as the “faith for money/prosperity claims” some Preachers Teach which are clear against these Verses
“… 9But those who DESIRE TO BE RICH FALL into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and harmful lusts which drown men in destruction and perdition. …”
This Psalm proves that one doesn’t live in “prosperity/luxury” but only takes his “daily need” from God’s Providence is God’s Will
“… 7Two things I request of You (Deprive me not before I die): 8REMOVE FALSEHOOD AND LIES FAR FROM ME; GIVE ME NEITHER POVERTY NOR RICHES— FEED ME WITH THE FOOD ALLOTTED TO ME; 9Lest I be full and deny You, And say, “Who is the Lord?” Or lest I be poor and steal, And profane the name of my God. …” (Proverbs 30:7 – 9, NKJV)
No wonder Christ Asked to Pray for “Daily” Bread only and not “Bread for 1000 days ahead etc.” where if He Gives that, it should come without we asking for it in the same way we never see either Abraham nor Job in Scripture praying for wealth/money but yet they were made rich by God which in return they shared extravagantly as I have demonstrated in earlier posts with “Verses”:
“… 11Give us this day our daily bread. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 6:11, NKJV)
- v) The “Good Fight of Faith” teaches against the “love of money”
“… 10For the LOVE OF MONEY is a ROOT OF ALL KINDS OF EVIL, for which some have STRAYED FROM THE FAITH in their greediness, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows. …”
Do we preach against the “Love of Money” according to New Testament Verses? If we didn’t, “no” evil is Uprooted meaning it can Always resurface back and it causes the “straying away from the faith”. Can you see it?
2) Christ’s New Testament Commands
Christ is “not” Lord in our hearts until we do what He Says in Scripture:
“… 46“But WHY DO YOU CALL ME ‘LORD, LORD,’ and NOT DO THE THINGS WHICH I SAY? 47Whoever comes to Me, and HEARS MY SAYINGS AND DOES THEM, I will show you whom he is like: 48He is like a man building a house, who dug deep and laid the foundation on the rock …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 6:46 – 48, NKJV)
Note: The “… and NOT DO THE THINGS WHICH I SAY? …” = New Testament Written Commands of Christ = “… 47Whoever comes to Me, and HEARS MY SAYINGS AND DOES THEM, …”. Can you see it?
This is “not” an Out of Context quoting of Scripture as the same Context above of ‘building the House on the Rock of Christ’ = Building a Faith by Doing His Commands without which the risk of “Lawlessness” exists is Echoed clearly in the Great Denial Verses below (where “Many” converts based on Prophesying, Casting out Demons, Miracles are Rejected in an End Time Christianity which accomplishes this as it Asks Christ when He Returns on ‘That Day’):
“… 21“Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father in heaven. 22MANY will say to Me in that day, ‘Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in Your name, cast out demons in Your name, and done many wonders in Your name?’ 23And then I will declare to them, ‘I NEVER KNEW YOU; depart from Me, YOU WHO PRACTICE LAWLESSNESS!’ 24“Therefore WHOEVER HEARS THESE SAYINGS OF MINE, and DOES THEM, I will liken him to a WISE MAN WHO BUILT HIS HOUSE ON THE ROCK: …” (Matthew 7:21 – 24, NKJV)
Note: So the “… will of My Father in heaven …” = “… 24“Therefore WHOEVER HEARS THESE SAYINGS OF MINE, and DOES THEM, I will liken him to a WISE MAN WHO BUILT HIS HOUSE ON THE ROCK: …”. Can you see it? Please remember that the CHARITY DOCTRINE is a MAJOR COMMAND of CHRIST till JUDGMENT DAY VERSES (next) mention this only even (proving its independent importance exclusively even):
Yes, Which “Doing Good” is Christ Speaking about? His Own Words Answers only these, Verses:
“… for I was hungry and you gave Me food; I was thirsty and you gave Me drink; I was a STRANGER and you TOOK ME IN; … 38When did we see You a STRANGER and take You in, or naked and clothe You? … 40And the King will answer and say to them, ‘Assuredly, I say to you, inasmuch as you did it to one of the LEAST of these My brethren, you DID it TO ME.’ … 41“Then He will also say to those on the left hand, ‘Depart from Me, you cursed, into the everlasting [Aeonian] fire prepared for the devil and his angels: … 43I was a STRANGER and you did NOT take Me in, … ‘Assuredly, I say to you, inasmuch as you did NOT do it to one of the least of these, you did NOT do it to Me.’ …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 25:35, 38, 40, 41, 43, 45, NKJV)
Example: The Verses below by Christ Himself is Full of the CHARITY DOCTRINE COMMANDS such as GIVE, SHARE, LEND MONEY even toward OUR ENEMIES toward “those who will hear” as Christ Remarks beautifully as ‘fake Christians will be unable to hear this and will do the opposite and persecute their enemies either literally, economically or in other ways to preserve their way of life instead of obeying His Command in this’ (can you see it Written on the first line below itself?):
“… 27“But I SAY TO YOU WHO HEAR: LOVE YOUR ENEMIES, DO GOOD to those who hate you, 28bless those who curse you, and pray for those PRAY FOR THOSE WHO SPITEFULLY USE YOU. 29To him who strikes you on the one cheek, offer the other also. And from him who takes away your cloak, do not withhold your tunic either. 30GIVE to everyone who asks of you. And from him who takes away your goods DO NOT ASK THEM BACK. 31And just as you want men to do to you, you also do to them likewise. 32“But if you love those who love you, what credit is that to you? For even sinners love those who love them. 33And if you do good to those who do good to you, what credit is that to you? For even sinners do the same. 34And if YOU LEND to those from whom you HOPE TO RECEIVE BACK, what credit is that to you? For even sinners lend to sinners to receive as much back. 35But LOVE YOUR ENEMIES, DO GOOD, AND LEND, [h]HOPING FOR NOTHING IN RETURN; and YOUR REWARD WILL BE GREAT, and YOU WILL BE SONS OF THE MOST HIGH. For He is kind to the unthankful and evil. 36Therefore be merciful, just as your Father also is merciful. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 6:27 – 36, NKJV)
3) Executing True Judgment
“… Thus speaketh the LORD of hosts, saying, Execute TRUE JUDGMENT, and SHEW MERCY and COMPASSIONS every man to his brother: 10And OPPRRESS NOT THE WIDOW, NOR THE FATHERLESS, THE STRANGER, NOR THE POOR; and let none of you IMAGINE EVIL AGAINST his brother in your heart. 11But they REFUSED TO HEARKEN, and pulled away the shoulder, and STOPPED THEIR EARS, that THEY SHOULD NOT HEAR. 12Yes, they made their hearts like flint, refusing to hear the law and the words which the Lord of hosts had sent by His Spirit through the former prophets. Thus GREAT WRATH CAME FROM THE LORD OF HOSTS. 13Therefore it happened, that just as HE PROCLAIMED AND THEY WOULD NOT HEAR, SO THEY CALLED OUT and I WOULD NOT LISTEN,” SAYS THE LORD OF HOSTS. 14“But I scattered them with a whirlwind among all the nations which they had not known. Thus THE LAND BECAME DESOLATE after them, so that no one passed through or returned; for they made the pleasant land desolate.” ….” (Zechariah 7:9 – 14, KJV)
So, Executing True Judgment is showing MERCY and COMPASSION in ACTION such as the CHARITY DOCTRINE ACTS of “… 10And OPPRRESS NOT THE WIDOW, NOR THE FATHERLESS, THE STRANGER, NOR THE POOR; …” meaning we shoot do the opposite which is to help them instead:
“… 27PURE AND UNDEFILED RELIGION before GOD AND THE FATHER is this: to VISIT ORPHANS AND WIDOWS in THEIR TROUBLE, and to keep oneself unspotted from the world. …” (James 1:27, NKJV)
Did you notice these?
“Holiness” part of “God’s Pure Religion” = “… and to keep oneself unspotted from the world. …” = the “Virginity” part of the Parable of the 5 Wise and 5 Foolish Virgins in Matthew 25:1 – 13.
and
“Charity Doctrine Part of God’s Pure Religion” = “…27PURE AND UNDEFILED RELIGION before GOD AND THE FATHER is this: to VISIT ORPHANS AND WIDOWS in THEIR TROUBLE, …” = the “Oil & Lamp” part of the Parable of the 5 Wise and 5 Foolish Virgins in Matthew 25:1 – 13. as discussed in an earlier post below with Blessed Martin Luther too Preaching this same meaning in Essence:
https://www.facebook.com/jonathan.ramachandran/posts/10160885716652784:0
- i) True “JUSTICE” means doing the Charity Doctrine by giving literal Materialistic Food + Needs (not wants etc.)
“… 17For the Lord your God is GOD OF GODS and LORD OF LORDS, the great God, mighty and awesome, who shows no partiality nor takes a bribe. 18He administers JUSTICE FOR THE FATHERLESS and the WIDOW, AND LOVES THE STRANGER, GIVING HIM FOOD AND CLOTHING. 19Therefore love the stranger, for you were strangers in the land of Egypt. …” (Deuteronomy 10:17 – 19, NKJV)
- ii) Not helping the Poor is already a Lifestyle of Sin. Hence the Charity Doctrine is not an option for any True Believer of Christ and is a “Sin of Sodom” alongside which is the “Prosperity in Food” and “Idleness” type of Lifestyles of “Sodom” too:
“… Look, this was the iniquity of your sister SODOM: She and her daughter had PRIDE, FULLNESS OF FOOD, and ABUNDANCE OF IDLENESS; NEITHER did she strengthen the hand of the POOR and NEEDY. …” (Ezekiel 16:49, NKJV)
iii) Kings of Faith Practice this Charity Doctrine because that’s what it means to “know God” and not compete in Cedar (i.e. competing in buying expensive furniture) as God Himself Remarks Sarcastically toward this newly appointed “king of Judah” in Verses below:
“… 15“Do you become a king because you are competing in cedar? Did your father not eat and drink And DO JUSTICE AND RIGHTEOUSNESS? Then it was well for him. 16“HE PLED THE CAUSE OF THE AFFLICTED and THE POOR, then it was well. IS THAT NOT WHAT IT MEANS TO KNOW ME?” DECLARES THE LORD. 17“But your eyes and your heart Are intent only upon your own dishonest gain, And on shedding innocent blood, And on practicing oppression and extortion.” … And YOU WILL SEEK ME AND FIND ME when YOU SEARCH FOR ME WITH ALL YOUR HEART. …” (Jeremiah 22:15 – 17, 29:13, NASB)
4) Are we Adding to the Work of Christ?
Apostle St. Paul wrote against adding the ritualistic Jewish Rituals of the Torah to the Work of Christ. However he also wrote about keeping holy and practicing the Charity Doctrine Commands and so these are “not” considered adding to the Work of Christ but rather LETTING CHRIST WORK THROUGH YOU TO FULFILL GOD’S WILL in these aspects as Verse below reveals:
“… 12Therefore, my beloved, as you have ALWAYS OBEYED, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, WORK OUT YOUR OWN SALVATION with fear and trembling; 13for it is GOD WHO WORKS IN YOU both TO WILL AND TO DO for His good pleasure. …” (Philippians 2:12 – 13, NKJV)
Can you see it?
So “not” doing these New Testament Commands or others means that we are “self-willed” at those times instead of “Letting Christ Live through us Fulfilling His Written Will via His Commands”.
In other words the Context is very strong in Verses below that the “Faith that is Dead” refers to a ‘Faith without physical sharing of material needs toward one another’ if we take the literal Sola Scriptura approach, Verses:
“… 14What does it profit, my brethren, if someone says he HAS FAITH BUT DOES NOT HAVE WORKS? CAN FAITH SAVE HIM? 15If a brother or sister is naked and destitute of daily food, 16and 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? 17Thus also FAITH BY ITSELF, IF IT DOES NOT HAVE WORKS, IS DEAD. …” (James 2:14 – 17, NKJV)
The explanations that Works of Faith can refer to something else is “not” Written in Verses above and thus remains as opinions of men which could be true but the most important Work of Saving Faith is clearly literal material sharing of needs of the Charity Doctrine of ‘this World’s Goods’ as the next set of Verses below too agree as the “Faith Working through Love” Context (Galatians 5:6) likewise points to this same context as “love your neighbor” with literal earthly needs/goods to fulfill “all Law” (all Torah, not some, Galatians 5:14) and hence no one can be condemned to preach or do it likewise as these Verses clearly Reveal Further:
“… For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision nor uncircumcision avails anything, but FAITH WORKING THROUGH LOVE. … For ALL THE LAW IS FULFILLED in one word, even in this: “YOU SHALL LOVE YOUR NEIGHBOR AS YOURSELF.” …” (Galatians 5:6, 14, NKJV)
The phrase “… FAITH WORKING THROUGH LOVE …” = ‘Faith with Charity Doctrine’ because ‘Charity Doctrine is Love in Action’, Verses:
“… 16By this WE KNOW LOVE, because He laid down His life for us. And we also OUGHT TO LAY DOWN OUR LIVES FOR THE BRETHREN. 17But WHOEVER HAS THIS WORLD’S GOODS, and SEES HIS BROTHER IN NEED, AND SHUTS UP HIS HEART FROM HIM, HOW DOES THE LOVE OF GOD ABIDE IN HIM? 18My little children, let us NOT LOVE IN WORD or IN TONGUE, BUT IN DEED AND IN TRUTH …” (1 John 3:16 – 18, NKJV)
5) Are we filled with the Holy Spirit?
Being filled with the Holy Spirit is “not” Speaking in tongues as there are Christians who do “not” Speak in Tongues. The Speaking in tongues is a Gift of the Spirit for Self-Edification, Verses:
“… 4He who SPEAKS IN A TONGUE EDIFIES HIMSELF, but he who prophesies edifies the church. 5I WISH YOU ALL SPOKE WITH TONGUES, but EVEN MORE THAT YOU PROPHESIED; …” (1 Corinthians 14:4 – 5, NKJV)
Comments:
- i) Speaking in Tongues only EDIFIES or HELPS YOURSELF and NOT OTHERS
“… 4He who SPEAKS IN A TONGUE EDIFIES HIMSELF, …”
- ii) Not all Christians Speak in Tongues for if not this phrase wouldn’t make sense “… 5I WISH YOU ALL SPOKE WITH TONGUES, …”
Not every Christian get to Practice every Gift and so they are still filled with the Holy Spirit and the Greatest Way (as Scripture Compares is not these gifts at all but the Gift of Agape/Love of God) as these Verses Describe (which was in an earlier post in detail):
“… 27Now you are the body of Christ, and members individually. 28And God has appointed these in the church: first apostles, second prophets, third teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of healings, helps, administrations, varieties of tongues. 29Are all apostles? Are all prophets? Are all teachers? Are ALL WORKERS OF MIRACLES? 30DO ALL HAVE GIFTS OF HEALINGS? DO ALL SPEAK WITH TONGUES? Do all interpret? 31But earnestly desire the [i]best gifts. And YET I SHOW YOU A MORE EXCELLENT WAY. …” (1 Corinthians 12:27 – 30, NKJV)
The Sign of the Holy Spirit is this according to Verse below: No one can keep (obey) these Commands unless the Holy Spirit Enables them:
“… 13HOLD FAST The PATTERN OF SOUND WORDS which you have heard from me, in faith and love which are in Christ Jesus. 14That good thing which was committed to you, KEEP BY THE HOLY SPIRIT who dwells in us. …” (2 Timothy 1:13 – 14, NKJV)
Christ Confirms this Truth as follows:
“… IF YOU LOVE ME, KEEP [Obey] MY COMMANDMENTS. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (John 14:15, NKJV)
6) Why go “beyond what is Written in New Testament Scripture” and then claim ‘Sola Scriptura’ as a Protestant? Isn’t that how the Protestants accuse the Roman Catholics to add new things and aren’t them doing the same & then claim that the number of new converts justify it?
There’s “no” New Testament Command for Fulfilling anything what is “not” Written. So the Safe Route Scripturally for which you cannot be condemned and are approved by God is to just obey Written New Testament Verses as it is Written and teach others likewise too:
“… that you may learn in us NOT TO THINK BEYOND WHAT IS WRITTEN, that none of you may be [c]puffed up on behalf of one against the other. … 14I do not write these things to shame you, but as my beloved children I warn you. 15For though you might have ten thousand instructors in Christ, yet you do not have many fathers; for in Christ Jesus I have begotten you through the gospel. 16Therefore I URGE YOU, IMITATE ME. 17For this reason I have sent Timothy to you, who is my beloved and faithful son in the Lord, who will remind you of my ways in Christ, as I TEACH EVERYWHERE IN EVERY CHURCH. …” (1 Corinthians 4:4, 14 – 17, NKJV)
Yes, One thing is for sure: Whoever follows these New Testament Commands will never be condemned according to Verse below:
“… 1 IMITATE ME, just as I also IMITATE CHRIST. 2Now I PRAISE YOU, brethren, that you remember me in all things and KEEP THE TRADITIONS just as I delivered them to you. … 16But if anyone seems to be contentious, we have no such custom, nor do the churches of God. … ” (1 Corinthians 11:1 – 2, 11:16, NKJV)
There’s always a “real risk” of doing things against what is Written as the “Lord’s Command” (1 Corinthians 14:37) and thus we don’t judge those who do differently but need not approve them either letting them be (let God Decide on their case but we choose to Preach what is Written):
“… 33For God is not a God of disorder but of peace—as in all the congregations of the Lord’s people … 36Or did the word of God originate with you? Or are you the only people it has reached? 37If anyone thinks they are a PROPHET or otherwise GIFTED BY THE SPIRIT, let them ACKNOWLEDGE that WHAT I AM WRITING to you is the LORD’S COMMAND. 38But if anyone IGNORES THIS, THEY WILL THEMSELVES BE IGNORED. …” (1 Corinthians 14:33, 36 – 38, NIV)
“… 5And also if anyone competes in athletics, he is NOT CROWNED unless he COMPETES ACCORDING to THE RULES. … 14REMIND THEM OF THESE THINGS, charging them before the Lord not to [d]strive about words to no profit, to the RUIN OF THE HEARERS. … ” (2 Timothy 2:5, 14, NKJV)
Comment: The “Real Evangelism” was “not” done by these Modern Christianity which is 100 years old but from the time of the apostles and even the Protestant Reformation, those greats also believed and Preached these Verses as it is Written be it they went into new unexplored areas or other great pursuits. These modern Christianity hijacked their work and now teaches contrary to what their first leaders taught unanimously which is to keep and obey any New Testament Commands as I have discussed in many previous posts quoting the great men of Faith from Blessed Martin Luther, Blessed John Wesley, Blessed John Calvin, Blessed Charles Spurgeon, Blessed Watchman Nee and many others. So, today sitting in their place after inheriting their hard work in blood with modern ease of manipulated replacements, they are now teaching AGAINST THESE NEW TESTAMENT COMMANDS and AGAINST THESE ORIGINAL PROTESTANT LEADERS too whilst sitting and inheriting their hard work, isn’t it? Best is, they tell you to “obey their new ways” which are “not” Written in Scripture but if you ask them to Return to these Scriptural Ways which was attested by the Fathers of Protestantism themselves, they shut you off. Can you see it?
“… 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 things that I said to you. …” (John 14:26, NKJV)
Comment: It is Written Clearly in Verse above that the “Most Blessed Holy Spirit of God” brings to “REMEMBRANCE” what “Christ has Said or COMMANDED” which is either directly by Him or through His Apostles and ‘not change those Spoken Words’, can you see it please?
“… that you may be mindful of the words which were spoken before by the holy prophets, and of the COMMANDMENT of us, the APOSTLES OF THE LORD and SAVIOR, …” (2 Peter 3:2, NKJV)
7) Faithfulness to God is Measured by how we Spend our Money
Biblical Logic: For Rich Christians, it is COMMANDED that they do these four things for ETERNAL LIFE (which either affects their reward level or failure to do this can signify whether they serve “Mammon”, Matthew 6:24 which can cause them to be “Unsaved”, let God Decide as “Christ Said Hard too for a Torah/Law Keeping Rich Man earlier to do this part even a little & thus hard to enter Heaven”):
- i) DO GOOD,
- ii) that they be RICH IN GOOD WORKS,
iii) READY TO GIVE,
- iv) WILLING TO SHARE,
“… 17COMMAND THOSE WHO ARE RICH in this present age not to be haughty, nor to trust in uncertain riches but in the living God, who gives us richly all things to enjoy. 18Let THEM DO GOOD, that they be RICH IN GOOD WORKS, READY TO GIVE, WILLING TO SHARE, 19storing up for themselves a good foundation for the time to come, that THEY MAY LAY HOLD ON ETERNAL LIFE. …” (1 Timothy 6:17 – 19, NKJV)
Can you really see it?
Please allow me to Highlight a Verse part for “Lawlessness Context Inside” even if they have “outward holiness” only below (or abstinence from sin, looking holy to men as even the Rich Young Ruler could keep holy and the Torah even without believing in Christ as per Matthew 19:20 – 24 but the Rich Young Ruler couldn’t believe the Charity Doctrine Commanding Lord Jesus Christ as Matthew 19:24 – 30 reveals toward “Perfection” – so which Jesus are you preaching?):
“… 28Even so you also OUTWARDLY APPEAR RIGHTEOUS TO MEN, but INSIDE YOU ARE FULL OF HYPOCRISY AND LAWLESSNESS. …” (Matthew 23:28)
“… ‘I NEVER KNEW YOU; depart from Me, YOU WHO PRACTICE LAWLESSNESS!’ …” (Matthew 7:23)
What’s the Cure for this “Inside Lawlessness” though it cannot be seen outside as Christ Himself Says that such ones appear “… OUTWARDLY APPEAR RIGHTEOUS TO MEN … but INSIDE YOU ARE FULL OF HYPOCRISY AND LAWLESSNESS. …” (Matthew 23:28)? This time Blessed Luke records this part more clearly as follows in this same Topic/Context of “Cleaning the Inside” (Doctrine of Sanctification for those Sanctified by the Spirit of God):
“… (39Then the Lord said to him), “Now you Pharisees make the OUTSIDE OF THE CUP AND DISH CLEAN, but your INWARD part is full of GREED and WICKEDNESS. 40Foolish ones! Did not He who made the outside make the INSIDE also? 41But rather GIVE ALMS [CHARITY] of SUCH THINGS AS YOU HAVE; then indeed ALL THINGS are CLEAN to you. . …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 11:39 – 41, NKJV)
8.) This is The Father’s Secret – Christ’s Commands:
Do you that both “God the Father” and “God the Son” are Found “not” in our opinions or prayer but in “His Commands”? Verse:
“… 23JESUS ANSWERED and said to him, “If anyone loves Me, he will KEEP MY WORD; and MY FATHER WILL LOVE HIM, and WE WILL COME TO HIM and MAKE OUR HOME WITH HIM. 24He who does not love Me does not keep My words; and the word which you hear is not Mine but the Father’s who sent Me. …” (John 14:23 – 24, NKJV)
Please don’t get me wrong. I am “not” saying that prayer is not important but without “Doing and Preaching His New Testament Commands” our prayers and assumptions are just human words. So the Verse above Teaches us to “Obey (Keep) His Divine Word via His Commands” first and then “God Comes and Lives in Us”.
Plenty of New Testament Commands (I think it’s the Majority) which is about the CHARITY DOCTRINE COMMANDS Directly by Christ Himself for those who believe in Him, interesting isn’t it?
Let us thus Preach Responsibly or if not, God may Hold us Accountable.
Conclusion – Are we Fulfilling the Great Commission?
“… 18And Jesus came and spoke to them, saying, “All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. 19Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20TEACHING THEM TO OBSERVE ALL THINGS THAT I HAVE COMMANDED YOU; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” Amen.” (Matthew 28:18 – 20, NKJV)
This part of the Great Commission is overlooked much “… 20TEACHING THEM TO OBSERVE ALL THINGS THAT I HAVE COMMANDED YOU; …” and may mark the difference between the thirty-fold, sixty-fold Vs Hundredfold converts.
The Tangible Works of Faith to keep it Alive refer primarily to the Charity Doctrine of Sharing with one another:
“… 14What does it profit, my brethren, if someone says he has faith but does not have works? CAN FAITH SAVE HIM? 15If a brother or sister IS NAKED AND DESTITUTE OF DAILY FOOD, 16and 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? 17Thus also faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead. …” (James 2:14 – 17, NKJV)
It is with “your money” (or “unrighteous mammon”) that “your faithfulness to God” is going to be Judged according to CHRIST HIMSELF (not opinions of men) in Verses below so please take it seriously:
“…9Here’s the lesson: USE YOUR WORLDLY RESOURCES to BENEFIT OTHERS AND MAKE FRIENDS. Then, when your possessions are gone, they will welcome you to an ETERNAL HOME. 10“If you are faithful in little things, you will be faithful in large ones. But if you are dishonest in little things, you won’t be honest with greater responsibilities. 11And IF YOU ARE UNTRUSTWORTHY ABOUT WORLDLY WEALTH, who will trust you with the TRUE RICHES OF HEAVEN? 12And if you are not faithful with other people’s things, why should you be trusted with things of your own? …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 16:9 – 12, NLT)
Note: The Word translated as “Eternal” in “Eternal Home” above is the same Greek Word translated as “Eternal” in “Eternal Life” or in “Everlasting Punishment” in Matthew 25:46 which is Aeonian/Olam. In other words, the consequences of being wrong in regards to this “how you spend your money” Doctrine could determine your “ETERNAL HOME” and MISSING HEAVEN and so do you want to risk being wrong about it? Can you see it?
This is why He Taught us to “Keep our Lamps Lit” by Doing the “Charity Works” that He Commanded:
“… 31“But SEEK HIS KINGDOM, and THESE THINGS will be ADDED TO YOU. 32“Do not be afraid, little flock, for your Father has chosen gladly to give you the kingdom. 33“SELL YOUR POSSESSIONS and GIVE TO CHARITY; make yourselves money belts which do not wear out, an unfailing treasure in heaven, where no thief comes near nor moth destroys. 34“For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. 35“Be dressed in readiness, and KEEP YOUR LAMPS LIT. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 12:31 – 35, NASB)
Note: Doing the Charity Doctrine of “Give to Charity” is part of “Seeking the Kingdom” as CHRIST HIMSELF COMMANDS in Verses above when quoted in “full”.
“… But others fell on GOOD GROUND and yielded a crop: some a HUNDREDFOLD, some SIXTY, some THIRTY. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 13:8, NKJV)
Please notice the word “Hundredfold” carefully in Verse below:
“… 27Then Peter answered and said to Him, “See, we have LEFT ALL and FOLLOWED YOU. Therefore what shall we have?” 28So Jesus said to them, “Assuredly I say to you, that in the REGENERATION, when the Son of Man sits on the throne of His glory, you who have followed Me will also sit on TWELVE THRONES, judging the twelve tribes of Israel. 29And EVERYONE who has LEFT HOUSES or brothers or sisters or father or mother or WIFE or children or LANDS, for MY NAME’S SAKE, shall RECEIVE a HUNDREDFOLD, and INHERIT ETERNAL LIFE. 30But MANY who are FIRST will be LAST, and the LAST FIRST. …” (Matthew 19:27 – 30, NKJV)
Please notice that Christ Talks about “First” and “Last” based on this as it is Written above. Relative Measure makes it fair to everyone according to how much one puts effort to preach the Gospel “Commands” to be “least/great” in His Kingdom of Heaven (God’s Heaven, God’s Rules) as these Verses prove:
“… 19Whoever therefore BREAKS one of the LEAST of THESE COMMANDMENTS, and TEACHES men so, shall be called LEAST in the kingdom of HEAVEN; but whoever DOES AND TEACHES them, he shall be called GREAT in the kingdom of HEAVEN. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 5:19 – 20, NKJV)
So if you have only one possible believer who believes all Christ’s New Testament Commands, he is like a Ferrari of Faith in comparison to the 1000,000 (1 million converts of a kancil car or less value type of Faith which doesn’t do a lot of Christ’s Commands). That’s how these “Bible Verses” compare the HUNDREDFOLD Vs THIRTY or SIXTY fold believers above explained in analogy here of the expensive car Vs cheap car for expensive faith Vs cheap faith.
Did you notice that Christ only Speaks of exactly 12 (Twelve Thrones) in the Highest Among the “Hundredfold” Reward recipients which are the Apostles in Matthew 19:28 – 29 earlier? This means that Christ only has the 12 Lamborghini of Faith (so little isn’t it?)
Similarly in the Book of Revelation we find the 144,000 of Israel who are certainly among the highest “Hundredfold” ones (unmarried men, holy and best in faith, Revelation 7:1 – 8.), Verses:
“… 1Then I looked, and behold, [a]a Lamb standing on Mount Zion, and WITH HIM ONE HUNDRED AND FORTY-FOUR THOUSAND, [b]having His Father’s name written on their foreheads. … . 3They sang as it were a new song before the throne, before the four living creatures, and the elders; and no one could learn that song except the HUNDRED AND FORTY-FOUR THOUSAND who were redeemed from the earth. 4These are the ones WHO WERE NOT DEFILED WITH WOMEN, FOR THEY ARE VIRGINS. These are the ones who follow the Lamb wherever He goes. These were [c]redeemed from among men, being FIRSTFRUITS to God and to the Lamb …” (Revelation 14:1, 3 – 4, NKJV)
Only after mentioning these 144,000 the Bible mentions the rest of the Saved as follows (which could be a mix of the thirty and sixty fold type of faith):
“… 9After these things I looked, and behold, a great multitude which no one could number, of all nations, tribes, peoples, and tongues, standing before the throne and before the Lamb, clothed with white robes, with palm branches in their hands, 10and crying out with a loud voice, saying, “Salvation belongs to our God who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb!” …” (Revelation 7:9 – 10, NKJV)
My point is this:
- Yes, we cannot be part of the 144000 even but we accept it and also see that the “Hundredfold” Reward is not given to those with the highest number of converts (as I don’t think the 144000 , these highest FIRSTFRUITS of God converted many people either). How do I know that? Look at Christian History itself: This 144000 are clearly mentioned to be “Jewish by Blood” according to Revelation 7:1 – 8 (so how many Jewish Christian missionaries have found big Number of converts type of Churches?).
- Also these 144000 are “Virgins” according to Revelation 14:4 above. So how many among these Jewish Missionaries who converted many are “Virgins”, then? Can you see it?
This part of their total devotion to God being unmarried and Virgin even just so that they can “please God” entirely via “His COMMANDS” their heart being undivided is why Apostle St. Paul wrote in principle of the following Verses too:
“… 7For I WISH THAT ALL MEN WERE EVEN as I MYSELF. But each one has his own gift from God, one in this manner and another in that. 8But I say to the UNMARRIED AND TO THE WIDOWS: IT IS GOOD FOR THEM IF THEY REMAIN EVEN AS I AM; 9but if they cannot exercise self-control, let them marry. For it is better to marry than to burn with passion. … 28 But even if you do marry, you have not sinned; and if a virgin marries, she has not sinned. Nevertheless such will have TROUBLE IN THE FLESH, but I WOULD SPARE YOU. … 32But I want you to be without care. He who is UNMARRIED CARES FOR THE THINGS OF THE LORD—how he may PLEASE THE LORD. 33But HE WHO IS MARRIED CARES about the THINGS OF THE WORLD—how he may PLEASE HIS WIFE. … 38So then he who GIVES HER IN MARRIAGE DOES WELL, but he WHO DOES NOT GIVE HER IN MARRIAGE DOES BETTER. …” (1 Corinthians 7:7 – 9, 28, 32 – 33, 38, NKJV)
- If the 144000 were virgins and Scripture particularly mentions this in the Context of being “unmarried” and keeping His Commands, then in analogy if any other closeness to God among the “Hundredfold” certainly also must include such aspects, right? So even if we are not the 144000 which is exclusively for “Jewish Men” (by bloodline, Verses below as God’s Covenant to them), any other such closeness to God as the Final Reward may follow analogously as there is no partiality with God:
“… 3saying, “Do not harm the earth, the sea, or the trees till we have sealed the servants of our God on their foreheads.” 4And I heard the number of those who were sealed. One hundred and forty-four thousand of all the tribes of the children of Israel were sealed:
5of the tribe of Judah twelve thousand were sealed;
of the tribe of Reuben twelve thousand were [a]sealed;
of the tribe of Gad twelve thousand were sealed;
6of the tribe of Asher twelve thousand were sealed;
of the tribe of Naphtali twelve thousand were sealed;
of the tribe of Manasseh twelve thousand were sealed;
7of the tribe of Simeon twelve thousand were sealed;
of the tribe of Levi twelve thousand were sealed;
of the tribe of Issachar twelve thousand were sealed;
8of the tribe of Zebulun twelve thousand were sealed;
of the tribe of Joseph twelve thousand were sealed;
of the tribe of Benjamin twelve thousand were sealed.
9After these things I looked, and behold, a great multitude which no one could number, of all nations, tribes, peoples, and tongues, standing before the throne and before the Lamb, clothed with white robes, with palm branches in their hands, 10and crying out with a loud voice, saying, “Salvation belongs to our God who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb!” …” (Revelation 7:3 – 10, NKJV)
- We know hardly the existence of 144000 Jewish Christians who are of the highest “FIRSTFRUITS” (Revelation 14:4) in Known Christian History despite so many other big names converting many.
So this clearly proves that the “number of converts” does “not” prove whether one is a Hundredfold, Sixty fold or Thirty fold fruit but the amount of Fruits of the Spirit one Cultivates by “Preaching and Doing” Christ’s Commands in Relative Measure of what you are given as Matthew 5:19 together with the only “Hundredfold” Reward Verse in Scripture (Matthew 19:29) also only mentions that the leaving of “Relationships such as wife/family” (as very few can Sacrifice this) for the Gospel or Christ’s Sake to Fulfill His Commands or even sacrifice material things to do Gospel Work such as “House, Lands” (also which very few are willing to share their personal private space of house/lands toward others) to fulfill GOSPEL COMMANDS or for CHRIST’S COMMANDS become part of these Eternal Highest “HUNDREDFOLD” Reward, please allow me to repeat this DIRECTLY from CHRIST HIMSELF:
“… 29And EVERYONE who has LEFT HOUSES or brothers or sisters or father or mother or WIFE or children or LANDS, for MY NAME’S SAKE, shall RECEIVE a HUNDREDFOLD, and INHERIT ETERNAL LIFE. 30But MANY who are FIRST will be LAST, and the LAST FIRST. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 19:29, NKJV)
Please don’t be deceived.
Based on all these New Testament Verses and the Old Testament Verses which still apply today, have we really “Fought the Good Fight of Faith”?
Peace to you
Mystery of Missing Heaven and the Way you Spend your Money link
Poverty Gospel with Charity Doctrine is not necessary for Salvation but is the Gospel of Perfection Beyond Holiness as Taught by Christ and Practiced by His Apostles.
Firstly, when the Bible Teaches believe in Lord Jesus Christ or Confess that He is Lord, it’s not referring to some Verbal Formula but one that is FOLLOWED WITH ACTIONS OF OBEYING CHRIST’S COMMANDS especially the COMMANDS with MONEY which the BIBLE VERSES NEXT (mostly by CHRIST HIMSELF) Points to Revealing whether one’s belief in Christ is REAL or FAKE:
“… 46“But WHY DO YOU CALL ME ‘LORD, LORD,’ and NOT DO THE THINGS WHICH I SAY? 47Whoever comes to Me, and hears My sayings and does them, I will show you whom he is like: 48He is like a man building a house, who dug deep and laid the foundation on the rock …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 6:46 – 48, NKJV)
This is “not” out of context quoting of Verses because the Second part in Verses above ‘Speaking of the House on the Rock Context’ for obeying Christ’s Commands for avoiding LAWLESSNESS to not be among the MANY DENIED on that Day is the “same phrase” (hence “same Context”) linking it to the Great Denial Verses below as it is Written despite them CONVERTING MANY (most likely MAJORITY), CASTING OUT DEMONS, PROPHESYING and DOING MIRACLES (so an End Time Christianity which accomplishes this is most likely referred to as they Ask Him that being still alive when He Returns on “That Day”). Verses below prove this Truth:
“… 14Because narrow is the gate and difficult is the way which leads to life, and there are few who find it. … 21“Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who DOES THE WILL OF MY FATHER in heaven. 22MANY will say to Me in that day, ‘Lord, Lord, have we NOT PROPHESIED in Your name, CAST OUT DEMONS in Your name, and DONE MANY WONDERS in Your name?’ 23And then I will declare to them, ‘I never knew you; depart from Me, YOU WHO PRACTICE LAWLESSNESS!’. 24“Therefore WHOEVER HEARS THESE SAYINGS OF MINE, and DOES THEM, I will liken him to a WISE MAN who BUILT HIS HOUSE ON THE ROCK: …” – Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 7:14, 21 – 23, 24, NKJV)
Now, why do you take ‘unwritten human preacher’s words seriously’ but “not” the “Written New Testament Bible Verses seriously?” Can you see it?
“… 20The young man said to Him, “All these things I have kept [g]from my youth. What do I STILL LACK?” 21JESUS said to him, “IF you want to be PERFECT, go, SELL what YOU HAVE and GIVE to the POOR, and YOU WILL HAVE TREASURE IN HEAVEN; and come, FOLLOW ME.” 22But when the young man heard that saying, he went away SORROWFUL, for he had GREAT POSSESSIONS.23Then JESUS said to His disciples, “Assuredly, I say to you that it is HARD for a RICH MAN TO ENTER THE KINGDOM OF HEAVEN. 24And AGAIN I say to you, it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God. …” (Matthew 19:20 – 24, NKJV)
“… 27Then Peter answered and said to Him, “See, we have LEFT ALL and FOLLOWED YOU. Therefore what shall we have?” 28So Jesus said to them, “Assuredly I say to you, that in the REGENERATION, when the Son of Man sits on the throne of His glory, you who have followed Me will also sit on twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel. 29And EVERYONE who has LEFT HOUSES or brothers or sisters or father or mother or WIFE or children or LANDS, for MY NAME’S SAKE, shall RECEIVE a HUNDREDFOLD, and INHERIT ETERNAL LIFE. 30But MANY who are FIRST will be LAST, and the LAST FIRST. …” (Matthew 19:27 – 30, NKJV)
“… No one can serve two masters. Either you will hate the one and love the other, or you will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 6:24, NKJV)
For Rich Christians, it is COMMANDED that they do these four things for ETERNAL LIFE (which either affects their reward level or failure to do this can signify whether they serve “Mammon”, Matthew 6:24 which can cause them to be “Unsaved”, let God Decide as “Christ Said Hard too for a Torah/Law Keeping Rich Man earlier to do this part even a little & thus hard to enter Heaven”):
- i) DO GOOD,
- ii) that they be RICH IN GOOD WORKS,
iii) READY TO GIVE,
- iv) WILLING TO SHARE,
Verse (please note these four COMMANDS above carefully as it is Written):
“… 17COMMAND THOSE WHO ARE RICH in this present age not to be haughty, nor to trust in uncertain riches but in the living God, who gives us richly all things to enjoy. 18Let THEM DO GOOD, that they be RICH IN GOOD WORKS, READY TO GIVE, WILLING TO SHARE, 19storing up for themselves a good foundation for the time to come, that THEY MAY LAY HOLD ON ETERNAL LIFE. …” (1 Timothy 6:17 – 19, NKJV)
It is with “your money” (or “unrighteous mammon”) that “your faithfulness to God” is going to be Judged according to CHRIST HIMSELF (not opinions of men) in Verses below so please take it seriously:
“… 9“And I say to you, MAKE FRIENDS FOR YOURSELVES by UNRIGHTEOUS [D]MAMMON, that when [e]you fail, they may receive you into an EVERLASTING HOME. 10He who is faithful in what is least is faithful also in much; and he who is unjust in what is least is unjust also in much. 11Therefore IF YOU HAVE NOT BEEN FAITHFUL IN THE UNRIGHTEOUS MAMMON, WHO WILL COMMIT TO YOUR TRUST THE TRUE RICHES? 12And if you have not been faithful in what is another man’s, who will give you what is your own? 13“No servant can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, or else he will be loyal to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and mammon.” …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 16:9 – 13, NKJV)
In another translation for easier English to understand it more clearly:
“… 9Here’s the lesson: USE YOUR WORLDLY RESOURCES to BENEFIT OTHERS AND MAKE FRIENDS. Then, when your possessions are gone, they will welcome you to an ETERNAL HOME. 10“If you are faithful in little things, you will be faithful in large ones. But if you are dishonest in little things, you won’t be honest with greater responsibilities. 11And IF YOU ARE UNTRUSTWORTHY ABOUT WORLDLY WEALTH, who will trust you with the TRUE RICHES OF HEAVEN? 12And if you are not faithful with other people’s things, why should you be trusted with things of your own? …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 16:9 – 12, NLT)
This is why He Taught us to “Keep our Lamps Lit” by Doing the “Charity Works” that He Commanded:
“… 31“But SEEK HIS KINGDOM, and THESE THINGS will be ADDED TO YOU. 32“Do not be afraid, little flock, for your Father has chosen gladly to give you the kingdom. 33“SELL YOUR POSSESSIONS and GIVE TO CHARITY; make yourselves money belts which do not wear out, an unfailing treasure in heaven, where no thief comes near nor moth destroys. 34“For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. 35“Be dressed in readiness, and KEEP YOUR LAMPS LIT. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 12:31 – 35, NASB)
Since these are all “Commands of Christ”, it ought to be Done by a True Christian regardless. Can you see it? Let’s teach others too lest He Denies us for not Teaching these Bible Verses which are so direct with “no” alternate meaning or difficulties. Blessed are the Churches and Christians who do it.
ALMS = CHARITY for DOCTRINE OF SANCTIFICATION too, Verses:
“… 39Then the Lord said to him, “Now you Pharisees make the OUTSIDE OF THE CUP and DISH CLEAN, but YOUR INWARD PART is full of [k]GREED and WICKEDNESS. 40FOOLISH ones! Did not He who made the outside make the inside also? 41But rather GIVE ALMS of [l]SUCH THINGS AS YOU HAVE; then indeed ALL THINGS ARE CLEAN TO YOU. 42“But woe to you Pharisees! For you tithe mint and rue and all manner of herbs, and pass by JUSTICE and the LOVE of GOD These you ought to have done, without leaving the others undone. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 11:39 – 45, NKJV)
Please don’t risk leading any to Hell by “not” Teaching them these New Testament Commands (not options) to Fulfill the Great Commission’s “… 20TEACHING THEM TO OBSERVE ALL THINGS THAT I HAVE COMMANDED YOU; …” Part:
“… 18And Jesus came and spoke to them, saying, “All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. 19Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20TEACHING THEM TO OBSERVE ALL THINGS THAT I HAVE COMMANDED YOU; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” Amen. …” (Matthew 28:18 – 20, NKJV
Even Apostle St. Paul (the real Inspired Author of “Saved by Faith/Grace Doctrine or Sola Fide) Practiced it for PURIFICATION in the NEW TESTAMENT, Verses:
“… 14But this I confess to you, that according to the Way which they call a sect, so I WORSHIP THE GOD OF MY FATHERS, BELIEVING ALL THINGS which are WRITTEN IN THE LAW AND IN THE PROPHETS. 15I have hope in God, which they themselves also accept, that there will be a resurrection [e]of the dead, both of the just and the unjust. 16This being so, I myself always strive to have a conscience without offense toward God and men. 17“NOW AFTER MANY YEARS I CAME to BRING ALMS AND OFFERINGS TO MY NATION, 18in the midst of which some Jews from Asia FOUND ME PURIFIED IN THE TEMPLE, neither with a mob nor with tumult. 19They ought to have been here before you to object if they had anything against me. 20Or else let those who are here themselves say [f]if they found any wrongdoing in me while I stood before the council, 21unless it is for this one statement which I cried out, standing among them, ‘Concerning the resurrection of the dead I am being judged by you this day.’ ” …” – Blessed St. Paul the Great Apostle of Christ (Acts of the Apostles, 24:14 – 21, NKJV)
Since Christ Himself Taught this Charity Doctrine Directly (in all these Verses), the Verse below applies too in Context (as Scripture is all about the Messiah’s Wisdom):
“… There is no wisdom or understanding Or counsel against the LORD …” (Proverbs 21:30, NKJV)
Please don’t be deceived.
Peace to you
Hundredfold Reward Mystery
We can convert many people but if they’re all thirtyfold, we might be thirtyfold too.
“… But others fell on GOOD GROUND and yielded a crop: some a HUNDREDFOLD, some SIXTY, some THIRTY. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 13:8, NKJV)
The only Verse in the Bible Describing this “Hundredfold” Reward does “not” mention number of converts (because many converts can be thirty-fold converts when measured against the number of Commands they “do and teach” according to Matthew 5:19 – please see the end) but “Leaving Earthly Things/relationships” for believing in Christ and the Charity Doctrine of Giving to the Poor, “Verses” (not opinions of men):
“… 20The young man said to Him, “All these things I have kept [g]from my youth. What do I STILL LACK?” 21JESUS said to him, “IF you want to be PERFECT, go, SELL what YOU HAVE and GIVE to the POOR, and YOU WILL HAVE TREASURE IN HEAVEN; and come, FOLLOW ME.” 22But when the young man heard that saying, he went away SORROWFUL, for he had GREAT POSSESSIONS.23Then JESUS said to His disciples, “Assuredly, I say to you that it is HARD for a RICH MAN TO ENTER THE KINGDOM OF HEAVEN. 24And AGAIN I say to you, it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God. …” (Matthew 19:20 – 24, NKJV)
Please notice the word “Hundredfold” carefully in Verse below:
“… 27Then Peter answered and said to Him, “See, we have LEFT ALL and FOLLOWED YOU. Therefore what shall we have?” 28So Jesus said to them, “Assuredly I say to you, that in the REGENERATION, when the Son of Man sits on the throne of His glory, you who have followed Me will also sit on twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel. 29And EVERYONE who has LEFT HOUSES or brothers or sisters or father or mother or WIFE or children or LANDS, for MY NAME’S SAKE, shall RECEIVE a HUNDREDFOLD, and INHERIT ETERNAL LIFE. 30But MANY who are FIRST will be LAST, and the LAST FIRST. …” (Matthew 19:27 – 30, NKJV)
Please notice that Christ Talks about “First” and “Last” based on this as it is Written above. Relative Measure makes it fair to everyone according to how much one puts effort to preach the Gospel “Commands” to be “least/great” in His Kingdom of Heaven (God’s Heaven, God’s Rules) as these Verses prove:
“… 19Whoever therefore BREAKS one of the LEAST of THESE COMMANDMENTS, and TEACHES men so, shall be called LEAST in the kingdom of HEAVEN; but whoever DOES AND TEACHES them, he shall be called GREAT in the kingdom of HEAVEN. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 5:19 – 20, NKJV)
So if you have only one possible believer who believes all Christ’s New Testament Commands, he is like a Ferrari of Faith in comparison to the 1000,000 (1 million converts of a kancil car or less value type of Faith which doesn’t do a lot of Christ’s Commands). That’s how these “Bible Verses” compare the HUNDREDFOLD Vs THIRTY or SIXTY fold believers above explained in analogy here of the expensive car Vs cheap car for expensive faith Vs cheap faith. Please don’t be deceived.
Peace to you
Doctrine Beyond Speaking in Tongues and other Gifts – The Secret of the More Excellent Way
1) If Speaking in Tongues is the sign of the Baptism of the Holy Spirit, then such a statement contradicts the Verses below which clearly state the Existence of non-speaking in tongues Christians:
“… 4He who SPEAKS IN A TONGUE EDIFIES HIMSELF, but he who prophesies edifies the church. 5I WISH YOU ALL SPOKE WITH TONGUES, but EVEN MORE THAT YOU PROPHESIED; …” (1 Corinthians 14:4 – 5, NKJV)
Comments:
- i) Speaking in Tongues only EDIFIES or HELPS YOURSELF and NOT OTHERS
“… 4He who SPEAKS IN A TONGUE EDIFIES HIMSELF, …”
- ii) Not all Christians Speak in Tongues for if not this phrase wouldn’t make sense “… 5I WISH YOU ALL SPOKE WITH TONGUES, …”
iii) If a Preacher Says that this phrase above means that God Wants all of us to Speak in Tongues, did they notice the next phrase beside it which reads “…
EVEN MORE THAT YOU PROPHESIED; …” in “… 5I WISH YOU ALL SPOKE WITH TONGUES, but EVEN MORE THAT YOU PROPHESIED; …”?
In other words the Most Blessed Holy Spirit of God Wishes that “you Prophesy” more than “you speak in Tongues”. Can you see it? The phrase “even more” implies this clearly.
In light of this same Bible Verse in full, do these same Preachers Teach that God is EVEN MORE DESIRING that YOU PROPHESY than YOU SPEAK IN TONGUES? Why? Because the General Principle here is that God Wants us to focus more on things which EDIFY OTHERS (such as PROPHECY) than things which EDIFY OURSELVES only (such as SPEAKING IN TONGUES) as these Verses clearly Compare and Testify. Yes, if these Bible Verses compare it, so we ought too likewise. We don’t compare or talk about things which the Bible Verses don’t talk about such as Prosperity and Vanity Pursuits.
- iv) Prophecy Edifies the Whole Church
“… but he who prophesies edifies the church. …”
This is why we also Teach Prophecy but not of Private Interpretation but by Quoting the Earliest Most Authoritative Leaders of the Church and speculating on some parts which are not so clear only but keeping to the General Framework as discussed in previous posts (for example in link below):
https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=10160823798057784&id=651792783
In full:
“… 1PURSUE LOVE, and desire spiritual gifts, but especially that you may prophesy. 2For he who speaks in a tongue does not speak to men but to God, for no one understands him; however, in the spirit he speaks mysteries. 3But he who prophesies speaks edification and exhortation and comfort to men. 4He who SPEAKS IN A TONGUE EDIFIES HIMSELF, but he who PROPHESIES EDIFIES THE CHURCH. 5I wish you all spoke with tongues, but even more that you prophesied; [a]for he who prophesies is greater than he who speaks with tongues, unless indeed he interprets, that the church may receive edification. 6But now, brethren, if I COME TO YOU SPEAKING WITH TONGUES, WHAT SHALL I PROFIT YOU unless I speak to you either by revelation, by knowledge, by prophesying, or by teaching? …” (1 Corinthians 14:1 – 6, NKJV)
The Verses below clearly Describe that “not” all get the Same Gifts of the Spirit nor must have all:
“… 7But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to each one for the profit of all: 8for to one is given the word of wisdom through the Spirit, to another the word of knowledge through the same Spirit, 9to another faith by the same Spirit, to another gifts of healings by [f]the same Spirit, 10to another the working of miracles, to another prophecy, to another discerning of spirits, to another different kinds of tongues, to another the interpretation of tongues. 11But one and the same Spirit works all these things, distributing to each one individually as He wills. …” (1 Corinthians 12:7 – 11, NKJV)
2) Personally, I believe that I do “Speak in Tongues” but not in public (or church) but only in private prayer as per Verses below:
“… 18I thank my God I speak with tongues more than you all; 19YET IN THE CHURCH I WOULD RATHER SPEAK FIVE WORDS WITH MY UNDERSTANDING, that I MAY TEACH OTHERS ALSO, THAN TEN THOUSAND WORDS IN A TONGUE. ... 22Therefore tongues are for a sign, not to those who believe but to unbelievers; but prophesying is not for unbelievers but for those who believe. 23Therefore if the whole church comes together in one place, and all speak with tongues, and there come in those who are uninformed or unbelievers, will they not say that you are [f]out of your mind? 24But if all prophesy, and an unbeliever or an uninformed person comes in, he is convinced by all, he is convicted by all. 25[g]And thus the secrets of his heart are revealed; and so, falling down on his face, he will worship God and report that God is truly among you. … 27If anyone speaks in a tongue, let there be two or at the most three, each in turn, and let one interpret. 28But if there is no interpreter, let him keep silent in church, and let him speak to himself and to God. 29Let two or three prophets speak, and let the others judge. 30But if anything is revealed to another who sits by, let the first keep silent. 31For you can all prophesy one by one, that all may learn and all may be encouraged. 32And the spirits of the prophets are subject to the prophets. 33For GOD IS NOT THE AUTHOR OF [i]CONFUSION BUT OF PEACE, as in ALL THE CHURCHES OF THE SAINTS. …” (1 Corinthians 14:18 – 19, 22 – 25, 27 – 33, NKJV)
Note: Please notice that these are all “New Testament Bible Verses” toward the Gentile Churches and “not” my opinion.
Comment: If someone ones to “Honour the Most Blessed Holy Spirit of God with your Gift, please do it as He Himself Required in these Verses as it is Written”.
These Commands are “not” Apostle St. Paul’s opinions or options but from “the Lord”, Verse from this same Chapter after teaching all the above:
“… If anyone thinks himself to be a prophet or spiritual, let him acknowledge that the things which I WRITE to you are the COMMANDMENTS OF THE LORD. …” (1 Corinthians 14:37, NKJV)
“… But why do you call Me ‘Lord, Lord,’ and not do the things which I say? …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 6:46, NKJV)
If your converts are converted only if you teach against these Verses, what does that mean? Please explain.
In full:
“… 36Or did the word of God originate with you? Or are you the only people it has reached? 37If anyone thinks they are a PROPHET or otherwise GIFTED BY THE SPIRIT, let them ACKNOWLEDGE that what I am WRITING to you is the LORD’S COMMAND. 38But IF ANYONE IGNORES THIS, THEY WILL THEMSELVES BE IGNORED …” (1 Corinthians 14:36 – 38, NIV)
Related Verses that it “applies to every Gentile Church” (for if you’re Spirit-Led, how come you cannot get these ‘Same Commands’ from God directly? If God leads you differently, we don’t judge that but let God Decide if He Did so on that Day):
“… that you may learn in us NOT TO THINK BEYOND WHAT IS WRITTEN, that none of you may be [c]puffed up on behalf of one against the other. … 14I do not write these things to shame you, but as my beloved children I warn you. 15For though you might have ten thousand instructors in Christ, yet you do not have many fathers; for in Christ Jesus I have begotten you through the gospel. 16Therefore I URGE YOU, IMITATE ME. 17For this reason I have sent Timothy to you, who is my beloved and faithful son in the Lord, who will remind you of my ways in Christ, as I TEACH EVERYWHERE IN EVERY CHURCH. …” (1 Corinthians 4:4, 14 – 17, NKJV)
“… that you may be mindful of the words which were spoken before by the holy prophets, and of the COMMANDMENT of us, the APOSTLES OF THE LORD and SAVIOR, …” (2 Peter 3:2, NKJV)
3) Edifying Others Doctrine – Please don’t Preach Prosperity
Example Verses:
“… 17for the KINGDOM OF GOD IS NOT EATING AND DRINKING, but RIGHTEOUSNESS and PEACE and JOY in the Holy Spirit. 18For he who SERVES CHRIST IN [E]THESE THINGS is acceptable to God and approved by men.19Therefore let us PURSUE THE THINGS which make for PEACE and the THINGS BY WHICH ONE MAY [F]EDIFY ANOTHER. …” (Romans 14:17 – 19, NKJV)
Logic: How will a poor Christian feel if you show off your luxury food and prosperity while he suffers and you don’t share with him? If you don’t care, then is that Christ-like?
That’s why in Verse above we see the following points:
- i) Prosperity Gospel teachings in the Context of God Wants you to enjoy Abundant Life (out of context quoting of John 10:10) to refer to “good food/luxury food and drinks” as part of the meaning is REFUTED by this phrase in Verse above: “… 17for the KINGDOM OF GOD IS NOT EATING AND DRINKING ...”. Also in John 10:10 itself, after Preaching “Abundant Life” , Christ and His Disciples did NOT FEAST Luxury or do anything equivalent to that.
- ii) So if you teach the Correct Doctrine of “Peace” (e.g. not killing of your enemies to preserve your way of life but Love your enemies commands as per the Charity Doctrine Acts as Christ Commanded in Matthew 5:38 – 46) and also the “non-eating and non-drinking” type of enjoyments as pertaining to the “Kingdom of God”, this is what the Context of the Verse above implies about you: “… he who SERVES CHRIST IN [E]THESE THINGS is acceptable to God and approved by men. …”.
iii) Sound Doctrine is to teach which EDIFIES OTHERS beyond those things which EDIFIES OURSELVES ONLY
Again, the related phrase in Verse above: “… 19Therefore let us PURSUE THE THINGS which make for PEACE and the THINGS BY WHICH ONE MAY [F]EDIFY ANOTHER. …”
Conclusion
“… 27Now you are the body of Christ, and members individually. 28And God has appointed these in the church: first apostles, second prophets, third teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of healings, helps, administrations, varieties of tongues. 29Are all apostles? Are all prophets? Are all teachers? Are ALL WORKERS OF MIRACLES? 30DO ALL HAVE GIFTS OF HEALINGS? DO ALL SPEAK WITH TONGUES? Do all interpret? 31But earnestly desire the [i]best gifts. And YET I SHOW YOU A MORE EXCELLENT WAY. …” (1 Corinthians 12:27 – 30, NKJV)
What is this “MORE EXCELLENT WAY” which the Bible Verses above Speak of which is Greater than even having all these Gifts of the Spirit? The Most Blessed Holy Spirit of God Himself Testifies about it in the next consecutive Verses as follows (as the Original Bible didn’t come with Chapter/Verse separations but as one long letter only):
“… But earnestly desire the best gifts. And yet I show you A MORE EXCELLENT WAY [of Agape, Love of God]. 1Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I have become sounding brass or a clanging cymbal. 2And though I have the gift of prophecy, and understand all mysteries and all knowledge, and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, but have not love, I am nothing. 3And though I bestow all my goods to feed the poor, and though I give my body [a]to be burned, but have not love, it profits me nothing. … And now abide faith, hope, love, these three; but the GREATEST OF THESE IS LOVE. … ” – The Wise and Gifted Blessed St. Paul the Apostle (1 Corinthians 12:31, 1 Corinthians 13:1 – 3, 13, NKJV)
Now all believers are required to have the “Love” of God or “Agape” (which is NOT an option) to be saved as per Verses above where Verses below clearly Speak of “Agape” in Action is Defined as the “Charity Doctrine” toward others (and so it matches that this is the “Oil” required to “Keep our Lamps Lit”):
“… 16BY THIS WE KNOW LOVE, because He laid down His life for us. And we also ought to LAY DOWN OUR LIVES for the brethren. 17But whoever HAS THIS WORLD’S GOODS, and sees his brother in need, and SHUTS UP HIS HEART FROM HIM, HOW does the LOVE OF GOD ABIDE IN HIM? 18My little children, let us NOT LOVE IN WORD or IN TONGUE, but IN DEED AND IN TRUTH. …” – Blessed St. John the only non-martyr Apostle of Christ (1 John 3:16 – 18, NKJV)
In Christ’s Own Most Blessed Words, this part is Described as follows:
“… 31“But SEEK HIS KINGDOM, and THESE THINGS will be ADDED TO YOU. 32“Do not be afraid, little flock, for your Father has chosen gladly to give you the kingdom. 33“SELL YOUR POSSESSIONS and GIVE TO CHARITY; make yourselves money belts which do not wear out, an UNFAILING TREASURE IN HEAVEN, where no thief comes near nor moth destroys. 34“For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. 35“Be dressed in readiness, and KEEP YOUR LAMPS LIT. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 12:31 – 35, NASB)
In the General Principle of Doing things which “EDIFIES OTHERS” more than focusing on things which EDIFIES SELF ONLY (as compared and Commanded by the Bible Verse in 1 Corinthians 14:4 – 5 earlier), the Verses below clearly show that the CHARITY DOCTRINE ACTS fall under the category of EDIFYING OTHERS and so likewise ought to be Preached more than Speaking in Tongues, Verses:
“… 28Let him who stole steal no longer, but rather LET HIM LABOR, WORKING WITH HIS HANDS WHAT IS GOOD, THAT HE MAY HAVE SOMETHING TO GIVE HIM WHO HAS NEED. 29Let no corrupt word proceed out of your mouth, but WHAT IS GOOD FOR NECESSARY [h]EDIFICATION, that it may impart grace to the hearers. 30And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, by whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. …” (Ephesians 4:28 – 30, NKJV)
Charity Doctrine part in the above which is for the EDIFICATION of OTHERS: “… LET HIM LABOR, WORKING WITH HIS HANDS WHAT IS GOOD, THAT HE MAY HAVE SOMETHING TO GIVE HIM WHO HAS NEED. 29Let no corrupt word proceed out of your mouth, but WHAT IS GOOD FOR NECESSARY [h]EDIFICATION …”.
Let us thus Preach Responsibly or if not, God may Hold us Accountable.
This is The Father’s Secret – Christ’s Commands:
Do you that both “God the Father” and “God the Son” are Found “not” in our opinions or prayer but in “His Commands”? Verse:
“… 23JESUS ANSWERED and said to him, “If anyone loves Me, he will KEEP MY WORD; and MY FATHER WILL LOVE HIM, and WE WILL COME TO HIM and MAKE OUR HOME WITH HIM. 24He who does not love Me does not keep My words; and the word which you hear is not Mine but the Father’s who sent Me. …” (John 14:23 – 24, NKJV)
Please don’t get me wrong. I am “not” saying that prayer is not important but without “Doing and Preaching His New Testament Commands” our prayers and assumptions are just human words. So the Verse above Teaches us to “Obey (Keep) His Divine Word via His Commands” first and then “God Comes and Lives in Us”.
Plenty of New Testament Commands (I think it’s the Majority) which is about the CHARITY DOCTRINE COMMANDS Directly by Christ Himself for those who believe in Him, interesting isn’t it?
Peace to you
Safe Route Scripturally – Almsgiving as a Doctrine of Sanctification or risk Lawlessness within otherwise
Charity Doctrine Mystery in Purification – Doctrine of Sanctification via Almsgiving by Apostle St. Paul himself is discussed next.
1) Bible Verse (not opinions of man):
“… Now after many years I came to bring ALMS to my nation, and offerings. …” (Acts 24:17, KJV)
Note: “Alms” = Almsgiving = Giving to Charity (Charity Doctrine with Money/things or equivalent Given to the Poor literally)
Who said the above? About the Truest Man of God there is, Blessed Apostle St. Paul, the Apostle of Christ to the Gentiles himself. Why and in what context did he do this act? Please see the conclusion later.
How about the other manuscripts such as the new “Dead Sea Scrolls Discovery” used usually by the NASB or NIV translations? This Verse reads the same as follows (please notice the word “Alms” or Charity” carefully “as it is Written”):
New International Version
“After an absence of several years, I came to Jerusalem to bring my people GIFTS FOR THE POOR And to present offerings.
New Living Translation
“After several years away, I returned to Jerusalem with MONEY TO AID MY PEOPLE and to offer sacrifices to God.
English Standard Version
Now after several years I came to BRING ALMS TO MY NATION and to present offerings.
Berean Study Bible
After several years, then, I returned to Jerusalem to BRING ALMS TO MY PEOPLE and to present offerings.
Berean Literal Bible
Now after many years, I arrived to BRING ALMS TO MY NATION, and offerings,
New King James Version
“Now after many years I came to BRING ALMS AND OFFERINGS TO MY NATION,
New American Standard Bible
Now after several years I came to BRING CHARITABLE GIFTS TO MY NATION and to present offerings,
Source: https://biblehub.com/acts/24-17.htm
2) Does this Verse in Acts 24:17 mean that in Context? Let’s see it in full below:
“… 14But this I confess to you, that according to the Way which they call a sect, so I WORSHIP THE GOD OF MY FATHERS, BELIEVING ALL THINGS which are WRITTEN IN THE LAW AND IN THE PROPHETS. 15I have hope in God, which they themselves also accept, that there will be a resurrection [e]of the dead, both of the just and the unjust. 16This being so, I myself always strive to have a conscience without offense toward God and men. 17“NOW AFTER MANY YEARS I CAME to BRING ALMS AND OFFERINGS TO MY NATION, 18in the midst of which some Jews from Asia FOUND ME PURIFIED IN THE TEMPLE, neither with a mob nor with tumult. 19They ought to have been here before you to object if they had anything against me. 20Or else let those who are here themselves say [f]if they found any wrongdoing in me while I stood before the council, 21unless it is for this one statement which I cried out, standing among them, ‘Concerning the resurrection of the dead I am being judged by you this day.’ ” …” – Blessed St. Paul the Great Apostle of Christ (Acts of the Apostles, 24:14 – 21, NKJV)
Pleasure notice the following facts carefully as it is Written:
- Apostle St. Paul Declares what a True Christian believes in
“… I WORSHIP THE GOD OF MY FATHERS, BELIEVING ALL THINGS which are WRITTEN IN THE LAW AND IN THE PROPHETS …”
- Apostle St. Paul shows that a True Christian does CHARITY / ALMS toward the people of his “Country/Nation”
“… 17“NOW AFTER MANY YEARS I CAME to BRING ALMS AND OFFERINGS TO MY NATION, …”
Comment: Apostle St. Paul was busy giving this “CHARITY/ ALMS” toward Gentile Churches and not that he neglected this Charity Doctrine Lifestyle. He only didn’t give to his people of the same “nation or unbelieving Jews” for a long time (a gap in many years) simply because he was not in their midst. This proves that we ought to do the Charity Doctrine wherever we are. I also wonder whether a modern adaptation can mean that as much as we can Christians ought to do some type of Charitable Giving toward their “home nation/country” likewise to fulfill this “purification” via the ‘Gift given to them’ (e.g. giving money to the poor of the country and/or giving your expertise of skill for free toward the poor in some way).
Example Verses of Apostle St. Paul doing the Charity Doctrine Lifestyle in other places toward the Gentile Believers/Churches:
“… 25But now I am going to Jerusalem to [i]MINISTER TO THE SAINTS. 26For it pleased those from Macedonia and Achaia to make a certain CONTRIBUTION FOR THE POOR AMONG THE SAINTS who are in Jerusalem. 27It pleased them indeed, and they are their debtors. For if the Gentiles have been partakers of their spiritual things, THEIR DUTY is also to MINISTER TO THEM IN MATERIAL THINGS. ..” – Blessed St. Paul the Great Apostle of Christ (Romans 15:25 – 27, NKJV)
“… 1Now concerning the COLLECTION FOR THE SAINTS, as I have given orders to the churches of Galatia, so you must do also: 2On the first day of the week let each one of you lay something aside, storing up as he may prosper, that there be no collections when I come. 3And when I come, whomever you approve by your letters I WILL SEND TO BEAR YOUR GIFT to Jerusalem. …” – Blessed St. Paul the Great Apostle of Christ (1 Corinthians 16:1 – 3, NKJV)
Note: This verse above is used to prove “Sunday offering Collections” but please also note it in “full” where it was not used for “prosperity” by the local pastor or Apostle Paul but rather he was collecting to give to the poor saints in Jerusalem for their needs as verse above also proves. So, how much of the “Sunday Collection Offering” is given to the “Poor”? Or is it used to “make prosperity” by those who claim it?
“… 1Moreover, brethren, we make known to you the grace of God bestowed on the churches of Macedonia: 2that in a great trial of affliction the abundance of their joy and THEIR DEEP POVERTY ABOUNDED IN THE RICHES OF THEIR LIBERALITY. 3For I bear witness that ACCORDING TO THEIR ABILITY, YES, AND BEYOND THEIR ABILITY, they were freely willing, 4imploring us with much urgency [a]that we would RECEIVE THE GIFT and the fellowship of the MINISTERING TO THE SAINTS. 5And not only as we had hoped, but they first gave themselves to the Lord, and then to us by the will of God. 6So we urged Titus, that as he had begun, so he would also complete this grace in you as well. 7But as YOU ABOUND IN EVERYTHING—in FAITH, IN SPEECH, IN KNOWLEDGE, in all diligence, and in YOUR LOVE FOR US—SEE THAT YOU ABOUND IN THIS GRACE ALSO. …” – Blessed St. Paul the Great Apostle of Christ (2 Corinthians 8:1 – 7, NKJV)
Note: “Giving” Extravagantly even when “poor” like this as this Early Church Demonstrated is considered one of the “Graces” or a “Grace of God” (as 2 Corinthians 8:7 reveals above).
‘… A Faith that costs nothing (in this Grace of Giving) is worth nothing also …’ – Unknown
Please notice that God Counts our Giving for if it didn’t matter to Him, He wouldn’t have Said this in the Gospels itself, Verses:
“… 1And He looked up and saw the rich putting their gifts into the treasury, 2and He saw also a certain poor widow putting in two mites.[a] 3So He said, “TRULY I say to you that this POOR widow has put in MORE THAN ALL; 4for all these out of their abundance have put in offerings [b]for God, but she OUT OF HER POVERTY PUT IN ALL THE LIVELIHOOD THAT SHE HAD.” …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 21:1 – 4, NKJV)
God doesn’t look at the result nor the amount of giving but your love & relative measure which makes it ‘fair to all’ (as God has no Partiality) as the widow who gave only two coins which probably couldn’t feed any still gave more than all including the Rich’s giving which had tangible effects.
3) Loving Others in Action
There’s a famous quote which rings:
‘… You can give without loving but you cannot love without giving …’
So that’s very clear say in Christ’s Own Words below because when Christ Commanded us to “Love your enemies” He is entirely speaking of the Charity Doctrine Acts below such as “let them use you for their benefits”, “lend money to them and don’t hope to get back”, “give things or money to them” etc., Difficult isn’t it? Verses:
“… 27“But I say to you who hear: LOVE YOUR ENEMIES, DO GOOD to those who hate you, 28bless those who curse you, and pray for those PRAY FOR THOSE WHO SPITEFULLY USE YOU. 29To him who strikes you on the one cheek, offer the other also. And from him who takes away your cloak, do not withhold your tunic either. 30GIVE TO EVERYONE who asks of you. And from him who takes away your goods DO NOT ASK THEM BACK. 31And just as you want men to do to you, you also do to them likewise. 32“But IF YOU LOVE THOSE WHO LOVE YOU, WHAT CREDIT IS THAT TO YOU? For even sinners love those who love them. 33And IF YOU DO GOOD TO THOSE WHO DO GOOD TO YOU, WHAT CREDIT IS THAT TO YOU? For even sinners do the same. 34And if YOU LEND to those from whom you HOPE TO RECEIVE BACK, what credit is that to you? For even sinners lend to sinners to receive as much back. 35But LOVE YOUR ENEMIES, DO GOOD, AND LEND, [h]HOPING FOR NOTHING IN RETURN; and your REWARD WILL BE GREAT, and YOU WILL BE SONS OF THE MOST HIGH. For He is KIND to the UNTHANKFUL AND EVIL. 36Therefore be merciful, just as your Father also is merciful. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 6:27 – 36, NKJV)
Conclusion
It looks like a real Apostle of Christ such as St. Paul himself was very busy with Doing the Charity Doctrine by sending aid from one Christian Church to another suffering one and vice versa but he didn’t end there and even extended this act toward the hostile and unbelieving Jews too. It is due to doing this Charity Doctrine Act that next Apostle Paul was cast into prison (Acts 24:22 – 27). Interesting isn’t it?
Why did Apostle St. Paul do this if it has “no” value or purpose in the New Covenant?
“… 17Now after several years I came to BRING CHARITABLE GIFTS to MY NATION and to present offerings, 18in which they found me occupied in the temple, HAVING BEEN PURIFIED, without any crowd or uproar. But there were some Jews from [i]Asia— …” (Acts 24:17, NASB)
Or in these translations:
“… 17Now after many years I came to BRING ALMS TO MY NATION, and offerings. 18Whereupon certain Jews from Asia FOUND ME PURIFIED in the temple, neither with multitude, nor with tumult. …” (Acts 24:17 – 18, KJV)
“… 17“NOW AFTER MANY YEARS I CAME to BRING ALMS AND OFFERINGS TO MY NATION, 18in the midst of which some Jews from Asia FOUND ME PURIFIED IN THE TEMPLE, neither with a mob nor with tumult. …”
Please notice that the ‘only act’ Apostle St. Paul did in these set of Verses is this “GIVING of ALMS/CHARITY” and by it, whether he was PURIFIED by this CHARITY/ALMSGIVING Act or if PART OF HIS PURIFICATION ACT was due to this CHARITY/ALMSGIVING ACT, the meaning is the same in essence, isn’t it?
Namely, this CHARITY/ ALMSGIVING Act is part of the Will of God for PURIFICATION which is the DOCTRINE OF SANCTIFICATION which includes HOLINESS too as other Verses Testify.
The most Important Question: Did Christ Directly Teach such a “Doctrine of Sanctification” via “Almsgiving/Charitable Deeds”?
Yes, and it’s even more direct in Christ’s Own Most Blessed Words below than Paul’s and it is quoted in the context below towards those who “keep the outside clean” (a metaphor for “being holy”) but forget to “clean All” (especially “inside”) via this only Act of ALMSGIVING / CHARITY as Christ (Who Knows All) Doesn’t point to any other righteous act as a substitute or to be done together with it in Verses below:
“… But WHAT YE HAVE GIVE YE AS ALMS, and, lo, ALL THINGS are CLEAN TO YOU. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Young’s Literal Translation, Luke 11:41, YLT)
Or in a simpler English Translation:
“… But now as for WHAT IS INSIDE YOU–be GENEROUS TO THE POOR, and EVERYTHING WILL BE CLEAN FOR YOU. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 11:41, NIV)
Please notice that the Context in which Christ Meant by “outside of the cup clean” is “not” referring to some human tradition or culture but Christ is specifically referring to “keeping holy on the outside by not sinning” where He Condemns their “inside” by calling them to have “hypocrisy” and “outward holiness of abstinence from sin only” in Verses below in His Own Words in the Same Context as Matthew records this part more clearly as follows:
“… 25“Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you CLEANSE THE OUTSIDE OF THE CUP and dish, but INSIDE THEY ARE FULL OF EXTORTION and [l]SELF-INDULGENCE. 26Blind Pharisee, first cleanse the inside of the cup and dish, that the outside of them may be clean also. 27“Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you are like WHITEWASHED TOMBS which indeed appear BEAUTIFUL OUTWARDLY, but inside are full of dead men’s bones and all uncleanness. 28Even so you also OUTWARDLY APPEAR RIGHTEOUS TO MEN, but INSIDE YOU ARE FULL OF HYPOCRISY AND LAWLESSNESS. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 23:25 – 28, NKJV)
Did you notice the dangerous word “LAWLESSNESS INSIDE” toward which “MANY” Christians may be Denied too as per Verses below (both by Christ)?
“… 21“Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father in heaven. 22MANY will say to Me in that day, ‘Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in Your name, cast out demons in Your name, and done many wonders in Your name?’ 23And then I will declare to them, ‘I NEVER KNEW YOU; depart from Me, YOU WHO PRACTICE LAWLESSNESS!’ 24“Therefore WHOEVER HEARS THESE SAYINGS OF MINE, and DOES THEM, I will liken him to a WISE MAN WHO BUILT HIS HOUSE ON THE ROCK: …” (Matthew 7:21 – 24, NKJV)
Can you really see it?
Please allow me to repeat that Verse part for “Lawlessness Context Inside” only below:
“… 28Even so you also OUTWARDLY APPEAR RIGHTEOUS TO MEN, but INSIDE YOU ARE FULL OF HYPOCRISY AND LAWLESSNESS. …” (Matthew 23:28)
“… ‘I NEVER KNEW YOU; depart from Me, YOU WHO PRACTICE LAWLESSNESS!’ …” (Matthew 7:23)
What’s the Cure for this “Inside Lawlessness” though it cannot be seen outside as Christ Himself Says that such ones appear “… OUTWARDLY APPEAR RIGHTEOUS TO MEN … but INSIDE YOU ARE FULL OF HYPOCRISY AND LAWLESSNESS. …” (Matthew 23:28)? This time Blessed Luke records this part more clearly as follows in this same Topic/Context of “Cleaning the Inside” (Doctrine of Sanctification for those Sanctified by the Spirit of God):
“… (39Then the Lord said to him), “Now you Pharisees make the OUTSIDE OF THE CUP AND DISH CLEAN, but your INWARD part is full of GREED and WICKEDNESS. 40Foolish ones! Did not He who made the outside make the INSIDE also? 41But rather GIVE ALMS [CHARITY] of SUCH THINGS AS YOU HAVE; then indeed ALL THINGS are CLEAN to you. . …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 11:39 – 41, NKJV)
How?
“… And above all things have fervent love for one another, for “LOVE will COVER a MULTITUDE OF SINS.” …”(1 Peter 4:8, NKJV)
“… Therefore I say to you, HER SINS, which are MANY, ARE FORGIVEN, for SHE LOVED MUCH. But to whom little is forgiven, the same loves little. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 7:47, NKJV)
So this is the Safe Route Scripturally to Practice this Doctrine of Sanctification too for the New Testament as Apostle St. Paul himself Practiced (and this it is “not” considered fallen from Grace) but rather as part of the Doctrine of Sanctification as CHRIST HIMSELF COMMANDED THIS AS IT IS WRITTEN.
Following what is Written in “New Testament Scripture” whether we understand it fully or not is not the danger but ‘not obeying what is Written in New Testament Scripture’ & doing things which are “not” Written in New Testament Scripture has the ‘risk’ of Danger (Let God Decide please):
“… 13HOLD FAST The PATTERN OF SOUND WORDS which you have heard from me, in faith and love which are in Christ Jesus. 14That good thing which was committed to you, KEEP BY THE HOLY SPIRIT who dwells in us. …” (2 Timothy 1:13 – 14, NKJV)
Peace to you
God Allows Denominations according to our variety – Safe Route Scripturally
Question
Why are there so many denominations of Christianity itself (more than 40,000)?
Reply
Verse:
“… 38Now John answered Him, saying, “Teacher, we saw someone WHO DOES NOT FOLLOW US casting out demons in Your name, and we forbade him because he does not follow us.” 39But JESUS SAID, “DO NOT FORBID HIM, foR NO ONE WHO WORKS A MIRACLE IN MY NAME can soon AFTERWARD SPEAK EVIL OF ME. 40For HE WHO IS NOT AGAINST [g]US IS ON [H]OUR SIDE. 41For whoever gives you a cup of water to drink in My name, because you belong to Christ, assuredly, I say to you, he will by no means lose his reward. …” (Mark 9:38 – 41, NKJV)
Comments:
- In the phrase “… 40FOR HE WHO IS NOT AGAINST US IS ON OUR SIDE …” (Mark 9:40) Christ Generalizes into the ‘Believing in Christ miracle worker from another denomination analogy’ in Verses above.
- Please notice carefully that Apostle John clearly Identifies that such a person never walked with Christ literally proving that a “personal experience with Christ” for “Salvation” and being Called to do the Work of God is definitely Biblical. Quote above proving this “… we saw someone WHO DOES NOT FOLLOW US casting out demons in Your name, and we forbade him because he does not follow us.” …”.
Example: Some people may have experienced a miracle or casting out of demons not even via any human beings but a supernatural experience. A man I know was full of demonic oppression and heard voices for a year before a Divine Voice Spoke Audibly (only once) Saying , “… Get on your knees and Declare that Jesus is Lord/God …”.
When that person (who heard these demonic Voices who was almost diagnosed with Schizophrenia, taking the same Invega Paliperidone medicine used as treatment for that disease) heard and did as the Divine Voice told (Declaring both “Jesus is Lord” and “Jesus is God” on his knees whilst being locked in a mental home Jail cell equivalent for being too violent), immediately someone was like turning the volume up and down for the demonic Voices which was speaking and this was repeated few times before it was set at a lower volume.
That person later explained that he understood that full healing was promised via full repentance. This happened in middle of 2010. Within a few months the weird demonic crawling on the skin type of pain and the Voices too vanished completely without any Pastor or anyone but just via a direct Divine Intervention of God in Christ. It is now been at least 11 years and that person has repented in time but never heard a demonic voice since nor has experienced any of those weird bodily pains nor taken any of the Invega Paliperidone or other medicine since 2010/11 after being fully healed.
Even the Doctor who treated him was a former head of one of the most renown mental institutions in the country who started a private practice and is a Christian who expressed surprise that he was healed and stopped medicine because people usually don’t get healed from this (and not so soon) and usually some parts of the disease lingers for life being supressed. All Glory to Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ.
So some people have experienced things like this but they don’t speak much of it or share it much because they want to only Preach the Gospel’s Word and we believe in that as the Written Word of God is True without our personal experiences even no matter how great it is. God’s Written Word especially those in the New Testament and Christ’s Direct Words are Most Sacred and Highest.
That person was not just healed but excelled in Various Achievements not just for the Gospel but also in National Contributions in his field as well as others which proves that his healing was not fake as fake casting out of demons repeats cyclically as the “last state of the man becomes worse and worse only” as Christ Himself Describes in Verses below:
“… 43“When an unclean spirit goes out of a man, he goes through dry places, seeking rest, and finds none. 44Then he says, ‘I will return to my house from which I came.’ And when he comes, he finds it empty, swept, and put in order. 45Then he goes and takes with him seven other spirits more wicked than himself, and they enter and dwell there; and the last state of that man is worse than the first. So shall it also be with this wicked generation.” …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 12:43 – 45, NKJV)
“… 9So the great dragon was cast out, that serpent of old, called the Devil and Satan, who deceives the whole world; he was cast to the earth, and his angels were cast out with him.10Then I heard a loud voice saying in heaven, “Now salvation, and strength, and the kingdom of our God, and the power of His Christ have come, for the accuser of our brethren, who accused them before our God day and night, has been cast down. 11And they OVERCAME HIM [Satan] BY THE BLOOD OF THE LAMB and BY THE WORD OF THEIR TESTIMONY, and they DID NOT LOVE THEIR LIVES to the death. …” (Revelation 12:9 – 11 , NKJV)
- Whether the person from another denomination is wrong theologically or not doesn’t matter as in this example itself doesn’t forbid or speak that part but Christ Commands to let it be. I do believe for certain that many Christians will be saved despite doctrinal errors except serious errors such as denying the Divinity of Christ and Not Preaching Holiness. As for the Charity Doctrine, most Christians or Churches naturally do it but the amount in percentage of vigor in love may account for their differences in rewards. But some fake Christianity which is after money and doesn’t focus on loving in action or just does it politically to give an Image is surely not right or can be doomed. We don’t analyse or judge that but let God Decide.
- Modern Well Known Christian Example
Sundar Singh doesn’t like to talk about the miracles much – Why?
“… his ministry was accompanied by very spectacular miracles, he did not pay much attention … Sundar Singh decided to stop exercising the gift, as ‘it would encourage superstition and distract from the Gospel … ” Simon Chan’s Book Titled (Pentecostal Theology and the Christian Spiritual Tradition, Page 66)
Source:
https://www.amazon.com/s?k=9781610970846&i=stripbooks&linkCode=qs
Many people claim to have experienced miracles but not many have a person who once was their enemy or tried to kill them testify to it.
Example: His own brother Rajender Singh who once tried to kill him testified to ‘many miracles’ God has Done through Sadhu Sundar Singh:
“… He asked that whosoever is the ‘True God’ would appear before him, or else he would kill himself; that very night he had a vision of Jesus. Sundar announced to his father, Sher Singh, that henceforth he would get converted into the missionary work of Christ. His father officially rejected him, and his brother Rajender Singh attempted to poison him. He was not poisoned just once but a number of times. People of that area threw snakes in his house, but he was rescued from mistreatment by the help of a nearby British Christian. … In the early 1940s, Bishop Augustine Peters, another converted missionary from South India, sought out Singh’s brother Rajender, led him to the Christian faith and baptised him in Punjab. Rajender Singh referred to many reputed miracles performed by Singh and people converted to Christ under his ministry …” – Wikipedia
Source: https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sadhu_Sundar_Singh
- Safe Route Scripturally part
“… 31“Therefore I say to you, EVERY SIN AND BLASPHEMY WILL BE FORGIVEN MEN, but the blasphemy against the Spirit will not be forgiven men. 32Anyone who speaks a word against the Son of Man, it will be forgiven him; but WHOEVER SPEAKS AGAINST the HOLY SPIRIT, it will NOT BE FORGIVEN him, EITHER IN THIS AGE OR IN THE AGE TO COME. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 12:31 – 32, NKJV)
As per Verses above, please be careful not to easily Condemn any mainstream denominations of Christianity which Preaches the Most Holy Trinity, Teaches Holiness and condemns sin and Teaches the Charity Doctrine of Loving one another in Action because you don’t want to accidentally say any Blasphemy against the Holy Spirit as even if we are not sure on some because there’s no Forgiveness for that mistake.
Please be wise and not be ruled by your own Impulses or self confidence in your faith.
Conclusion
Personally I look forward to work with any denomination of Christianity or Christians on parts where we agree and keep our differences not to interfere in the Gospel Work or Secular Work which we do together.
Here’s are two First Christianity Quotes Explaining this Way:
Not all righteous men are found inside the Church nor all who are appointed as Bishops/Pastors are good either as St. Clement Reveals below:
“… We are of opinion, therefore, that those appointed by them, or afterwards by other eminent men, with the consent of the whole Church, and who have blame-lessly served the flock of Christ in a humble, peaceable, and disinterested spirit, and have for a long time possessed the good opinion of all, cannot be justly dismissed from the ministry. FOR OUR SIN WILL NOT BE SMALL, if we eject from the episcopate those who have blamelessly and holily fulfilled its duties. Blessed are those presbyters who, having finished their course before now, have obtained a fruitful and perfect departure [from this world]; for they have no fear lest any one deprive them of the place now appointed them. But WE SEE THAT YOU HAVE REMOVED SOME MEN OF EXCELLENT BEHAVIOUR FROM THE MINISTRY, WHICH THEY FULFILLED BLAMELESSLY and WITH HONOUR. Ye are fond of contention, brethren, and FULL OF ZEAL ABOUT THINGS which DO NOT PERTAIN TO SALVATION. LOOK CAREFULLY INTO THE SCRIPTURES, which are the TRUE UTTERANCES OF THE HOLY SPIRIT. Observe that nothing of an unjust or counterfeit character is written in them. …” – Blessed St. Clement of Rome, an Apostolic Father being a direct Disciple of the Blessed Apostle St. Peter (c.35 AD – c. 99 AD, 1 Clement, Chapter 44 – 45)
Source: http://www.earlychristianwritings.com/text/1clement-roberts.html
Can you understand it? If you read especially the CAPITALIZED parts above it’s easy to see that St. Clement of Rome mentions that it’s not uncommon for true Godly men be evicted out of the Church’s Ministry and support is given instead to Pastors/Leaders who are full of zeal to talk about “worldly things” or “speak against Bible Verses to support human culture or such vanities”. So he exhorts the True Believers to stick to what is Written in Holy Scripture (1 Corinthians 14:37, 2 Peter 3:2) and not waste time on things that do “not” pertain to Salvation such as the ‘Prosperity Gospel’ , ‘Human Culture’ and even whether the ‘earth is Spherical/Flat’ etc.
Please note this quote from the above which puts a Great Sin if we reject truly worthy leaders whom the local Church ought to have supported and instead of the Church focused instead also on matters which are not important to Salvation as St. Clement Warns, “… FOR OUR SIN WILL NOT BE SMALL, if we eject from the episcopate those who have blamelessly and holily fulfilled its duties. … But WE SEE THAT YOU HAVE REMOVED SOME MEN OF EXCELLENT BEHAVIOUR FROM THE MINISTRY, WHICH THEY FULFILLED BLAMELESSLY and WITH HONOUR. Ye are fond of contention, brethren, and FULL OF ZEAL ABOUT THINGS which DO NOT PERTAIN TO SALVATION. …”.
So what happened to those ‘righteous men’ who were cast off from their own Church or not supported to serve in Ministry?
The “Prophecy” below may explain their way which is by St. Clement of Rome himself:
“… Who then among you is NOBLE-MINDED? who compassionate? who FULL OF LOVE? Let him declare, “IF ON MY ACCOUNT SEDITION and DISAGREEMENT AND SCHISMS HAVE ARISEN, I WILL DEPART, I WILL GO AWAY whithersoever you desire, and I WILL DO WHATEVER THE MAJORITY COMMANDS; only let the flock of Christ live on terms of peace with the presbyters set over it.” HE THAT ACTS THUS SHALL PROCURE TO HIMSELF GREAT GLORY IN THE LORD; and EVERY PLACE WILL WELCOME HIM. For “the earth is the Lord’s, and the fulness thereof.” These things they WHO LIVE A GODLY LIFE, that is NEVER TO BE REPENTED OF, BOTH HAVE DONE AND ALWAYS WILL DO. … ” – Blessed St. Clement of Rome, an Apostolic Father being a direct Disciple of the Blessed Apostle St. Peter (c.35 AD – c. 99 AD, 1 Clement Chapter 54)
Source: http://www.earlychristianwritings.com/text/1clement-roberts.html
This is the main reason why ‘we don’t believe in forming our own church even if we are right’ but as Blessed St. Clement of Rome commands in his apostolic authority, “… I will do whatever the majority commands …” even if it includes being kicked out of the church, i.e. “… If on my account sedition and disagreement and schisms have arisen, I will depart, I will go away whithersoever you desire …” as long as the Majority of Christians is happy [i.e. “… only let the flock of Christ live on terms of peace with the presbyters set over it …”] & this is not in reference of a heretic being put off from a Church but is referring to a True Christian as “… These things they who live a godly life, that is never to be repented of, both have done and always will do …” because these belong to “… Who then among you is noble-minded? who compassionate? who full of love? …” where their reward of leaving Church is not eternal hell but amazingly, “… He that acts thus shall procure to himself great glory in the Lord; and every place will welcome him …” .
Since St. Clement of Rome’s name is surely in the “Book of Life” (especially since Philippians 4:3 points to it whilst he was still living), I would prefer to Believe, Preach and do the best I can do Practice his quotes which makes the Bible Verses quoted to be more accurately understood.
Peace to you
Doctrinal Focus – His Commands – Safe Route Scripturally
That’s why we always need to ask first
- “Which New Testament Verse Says that”?
- “If your converts will only accept a Christianity which ignores many New Testament Verses, then if they were among those early Church, would they have been Christian”?
- “If the majority of Christianity is about not following the exact New Testament Verses, then what is our faith based on?”
Conclusion
“Perhaps some are not unsaved but the Reward Level depends on following what’s Written in New Testament Verses not in the number of conversions but Christ Himself Says that it’s based on how much of HIS COMMANDS we PREACH and DO”:
“… 19Whoever therefore BREAKS one of the LEAST of THESE COMMANDMENTS, and TEACHES men so, shall be called LEAST in the kingdom of HEAVEN; but whoever DOES AND TEACHES them, he shall be called GREAT in the kingdom of HEAVEN. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 5:19, NKJV)
Did you notice that Christ Links being “least” or “greatest” in “His Kingdom” toward “Preaching and Obeying HIS COMMANDS” and ‘not other Doctrinal Accuracies such as Prophecies etc.’?
In other words, please focus on teaching especially CHRIST’S DIRECT NEW TESTAMENT COMMANDS which certainly includes the CHARITY DOCTRINE COMMANDS to CHURCH ORDER and DAILY LIVING COMMANDS and HOLINESS COMMANDS and not all the other unrelated ritualistic Torah Commands.
Example Verses:
1) HOLINESS COMMANDS
“… 16Now behold, one came and said to Him, “Good Teacher, WHAT GOOD THING SHALL I DO that I MAY HAVE ETERNAL LIFE?” 17So He said to him, “Why do you call Me good? No one is good but One, that is, God. But IF YOU WANT TO ENTER INTO LIFE, KEEP THE COMMANDMENTS.” 18He said to Him, “Which ones?” Jesus said, “‘You shall not murder,’ ‘You shall not commit adultery,’ ‘You shall not steal,’ ‘You shall not bear false witness,’ 19‘Honor your father and your mother,’ and, ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ ” 20The young man said to Him, “All these things I have kept from my youth. WHAT DO I STILL LACK?” …” (Matthew 19:16 – 20, NKJV)
2) CHARITY DOCTRINE COMMANDS
“… 20The young man said to Him, “All these things I have kept [g]from my youth. What do I STILL LACK?” 21JESUS said to him, “IF you want to be PERFECT, go, SELL what YOU HAVE and GIVE to the POOR, and YOU WILL HAVE TREASURE IN HEAVEN; and come, FOLLOW ME.” 22But when the young man heard that saying, he went away SORROWFUL, for he had GREAT POSSESSIONS.23Then JESUS said to His disciples, “Assuredly, I say to you that it is HARD for a RICH MAN TO ENTER THE KINGDOM OF HEAVEN. 24And AGAIN I say to you, it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God. …” (Matthew 19:20 – 24, NKJV)
“… 31“But SEEK HIS KINGDOM, and THESE THINGS will be ADDED TO YOU. 32“Do not be afraid, little flock, for your Father has chosen gladly to give you the kingdom. 33“SELL YOUR POSSESSIONS and GIVE TO CHARITY; make yourselves money belts which do not wear out, an unfailing treasure in heaven, where no thief comes near nor moth destroys. 34“For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. 35“Be dressed in readiness, and KEEP YOUR LAMPS LIT. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 12:31 – 35, NASB)
“… 39Then the Lord said to him, “Now you Pharisees make the OUTSIDE OF THE CUP and DISH CLEAN, but YOUR INWARD PART is full of [k]GREED and WICKEDNESS. 40FOOLISH ones! Did not He who made the outside make the inside also? 41But rather GIVE ALMS of [l]SUCH THINGS AS YOU HAVE; then indeed ALL THINGS ARE CLEAN TO YOU. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 11:39 – 41, NKJV)
3) CHURCH ORDER and DAILY LIVING COMMANDS
“… 33For God is not a God of disorder but of peace—as in all the congregations of the Lord’s people … 36Or did the word of God originate with you? Or are you the only people it has reached? 37If anyone thinks they are a PROPHET or otherwise GIFTED BY THE SPIRIT, let them ACKNOWLEDGE that WHAT I AM WRITING to you is the LORD’S COMMAND. 38But if anyone IGNORES THIS, THEY WILL THEMSELVES BE IGNORED. …” (1 Corinthians 14:33, 36 – 38, NIV)
“… that you may be mindful of the words which were spoken before by the holy prophets, and of the COMMANDMENT of us, the APOSTLES OF THE LORD and SAVIOR, …” (2 Peter 3:2, NKJV)
“… 5And also if anyone competes in athletics, he is NOT CROWNED unless he COMPETES ACCORDING to THE RULES. … 14REMIND THEM OF THESE THINGS, charging them before the Lord not to [d]strive about words to no profit, to the RUIN OF THE HEARERS. … ” (2 Timothy 2:5, 14, NKJV)
4) The Bible Defines the LAWLESSNESS from which MANY (most likely majority of Christianity too) to be rejected despite converting many or doing miracles or prophesying etc. due to LAWLESSNESS lacking not in ritualistic Torah Observations but CHRIST’S DIRECT COMMANDS as the CONTEXT in verse below clearly points to the saved ones as “… WHOEVER HEARS THESE SAYINGS OF MINE, and DOES THEM, …” in Matthew 7:24 below, can you see it “as it is Written”?
“… 21“Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father in heaven. 22MANY will say to Me in that day, ‘Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in Your name, cast out demons in Your name, and done many wonders in Your name?’ 23And then I will declare to them, ‘I NEVER KNEW YOU; depart from Me, YOU WHO PRACTICE LAWLESSNESS!’ 24“Therefore WHOEVER HEARS THESE SAYINGS OF MINE, and DOES THEM, I will liken him to a WISE MAN WHO BUILT HIS HOUSE ON THE ROCK: …” (Matthew 7:21 – 24, NKJV)
Summary
Your own Church or group of believers may Speak back against you for not letting them know these Verses if they become unsaved or lose rewards due to not knowing or not taught these Commands on Judgment Day or when He Returns, so may God Help us to Preach “HIS COMMANDS” Responsibly to truly fulfill the GREAT COMMISSION aspect in regards to this beyond converting only as follows:
Last but not least these Verses Fulfill the Great Commission as part of “… 20TEACHING THEM TO OBSERVE ALL THINGS THAT I HAVE COMMANDED YOU …” part:
“… 18And Jesus came and spoke to them, saying, “All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. 19Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20TEACHING THEM TO OBSERVE ALL THINGS THAT I HAVE COMMANDED YOU; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” Amen. …” (Matthew 28:18 – 20, NKJV)
The Sign of the Holy Spirit is this according to Verse below: No one can keep (obey) these Commands unless the Holy Spirit Enables them:
“… 13HOLD FAST The PATTERN OF SOUND WORDS which you have heard from me, in faith and love which are in Christ Jesus. 14That good thing which was committed to you, KEEP BY THE HOLY SPIRIT who dwells in us. …” (2 Timothy 1:13 – 14, NKJV)
The Verse above assures that to be able to “Keep/Obey” these “Written Traditions” (13HOLD FAST The PATTERN OF SOUND WORDS) + Live a life of “Labor of Love” (in faith and love) is a sign that the “Holy Spirit” is within us.
Peace to you
War for Saving your Children by Killing your unbelieving enemies and other Children or Parents – Is it Christian?
Question
If Christ Said to love your enemies, how much do you love those who kill your children?
Reply
This is a classic. Please consider the explanation below with “Verses”:
Simple: Don’t have children. If you want to fulfill these Commandments of Christ and if you find the possibility of having children can risk you to disobey this and you have to kill to defend your children, then better not to have children. Yes, to choose not to have children so that you can fulfill the commandments of Christ is better than having children and you have to disobey these Commandments and kill your enemies in the Name of your children.
Oh ya, with blood spilled on account of defending your children, I am not too sure how well if a blood curse remains on the Children because those who came to kill your children in war may have had theirs killed too making some amount of guiltiness to be upon your side too. This is because no side of a war is pure since Christ never Commanded your colonization wars, so your side is already wrong in blood spilling and this verse in Matthew 27:25 (next) gives the possibility of a “blood-curse” to exist on murderers as I said, no side of war is pure from this entirely since Christ never Commanded this nor revenge on your hands in the New Testament, Verses:
1) Possible Blood Curse Verse on spilling innocent blood as any side of war does this
“… And all the people answered and said, “His blood be on us and on our children.” …” (Matthew 27:25, NKJV)
2) If your children and you are truly innocent and do not deserve to die in the hands of your enemies but yet you or they are killed, God Promises Vengeance but He Forbids that vengeance through you killing them in Verse below (so “no” vengeance war is justified even if they kill your innocent children)
“… Beloved, do not avenge yourselves, but rather give place to wrath; for it is written, “Vengeance is Mine, I will repay,” says the Lord. …” (Romans 12:19, NKJV)
3) If you break Christ’s Commands for your children by killing your enemies, perhaps you are “not” the Elect as that Proves that you love your children more than Christ to break His Word
“… He who loves father or mother more than Me is not worthy of Me. And he who loves son or daughter more than Me is not worthy of Me …” (Matthew 10:37, NKJV)
4) If you kill others and they may be trying to kill you because someone from your side killed their children, it could be that you become a murderer and hater just like that in this vicious cycle of was “forfeiting Eternal Life” as the phrase “no eternal life” exists in Verse below:
“… 15Whoever hates his brother is a murderer, and you know that NO MURDERER HAS ETERNAL LIFE abiding in him. …” (1 John 3:15, NKJV)
5) First Christianity
The First New Testament Church laid down its life like that with no killing of its enemies which killed its children. So, that’s the empirical evidence which is plenty in Church History but only the later “Constantine Christianity” started killing back.
6) The Devil being a MURDERER from the BEGINNING
Whose work does it sound like when someone preaches such murder for whatever reason?
“… You are of YOUR FATHER THE DEVIL, and the DESIRES OF YOUR FATHER YOU WANT TO DO. He was a MURDERER FROM THE BEGINNING, and does not stand in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he speaks a lie, he speaks from his own resources, for he is a liar and the father of it. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (John 8:44, NKJV)
7) How about this Verse:
LUKE 19:27
For those enemies of mine who do not want me to the King over them ,bring them here in front of me and KILL THEM
Reply
Let’s see it a little bit ‘fuller’ first:
“…11Now as they heard these things, He spoke another parable, because He was near Jerusalem and because they thought the kingdom of God would appear immediately. 12Therefore He said: “A certain nobleman went into a far country to receive for himself a kingdom and to return. 13So he called ten of his servants, delivered to them ten [e]minas, and said to them, ‘Do business till I come.’ 14But his citizens hated him, and sent a delegation after him, saying, ‘We will not have this man to reign over us.’ … 24“And he said to those who stood by, ‘Take the mina from him, and give it to him who has ten minas.’ 25(But they said to him, ‘Master, he has ten minas.’) 26‘For I say to you, that to everyone who has will be given; and from him who does not have, even what he has will be taken away from him. 27But bring here those enemies of mine, who did not want me to reign over them, and slay them before me.’ ” …” (Luke 19:11 – 14, 24 – 27, NKJV)
Luke 19:27 is a Parable on Judgment Day and not judgment now. It is executed after Christ Returns and not now as it’s so clear above. You misunderstood.
Regarding Matthew 10:34 also, the “sword” Christ Speaks of is just disagreement with family due to believing in Him and He never Said kill your family with sword but indicates that some will betray you or become your enemy for believing in Him. Nothing else is Written or Commanded hence the Love your enemies is not negated but misunderstood by you. If God Wants to Kill Evil on Judgment Day or When He Returns He does so because you people likewise didn’t love your enemies or killed them or approved those who kill like that and so nothing wrong in Him executing them like that on that Day. Till then there’s a chance to repent yea!
Conclusion
Better not to marry and have children if having them is going to make you kill unbelievers’ children so that you can make a better place (in your way of life opinion) for your children
“… 27Then Peter answered and said to Him, “See, we have LEFT ALL and FOLLOWED YOU. Therefore what shall we have?” 28So Jesus said to them, “Assuredly I say to you, that in the REGENERATION, when the Son of Man sits on the throne of His glory, you who have followed Me will also sit on twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel. 29And EVERYONE who has LEFT HOUSES or brothers or sisters or father or mother or WIFE or children or LANDS, for MY NAME’S SAKE, shall RECEIVE a HUNDREDFOLD, and INHERIT ETERNAL LIFE. 30But MANY who are FIRST will be LAST, and the LAST FIRST. …” (Matthew 19:27 – 30, NKJV)
Yes better to remain unmarried to please Christ in His Commands than to marry and break His Commands to please your wife/husband/children/yourself including killing others to protect your children type of logic
“… 28 But even if you do marry, you have not sinned; and if a virgin marries, she has not sinned. Nevertheless such will have TROUBLE IN THE FLESH, but I WOULD SPARE YOU. … 32But I want you to be without care. He who is UNMARRIED CARES FOR THE THINGS OF THE LORD—how he may PLEASE THE LORD. 33But HE WHO IS MARRIED CARES about the THINGS OF THE WORLD—how he may PLEASE HIS WIFE. … 38So then he who GIVES HER IN MARRIAGE DOES WELL, but he WHO DOES NOT GIVE HER IN MARRIAGE DOES BETTER. …” (1 Corinthians 7:28, 32 – 33, 38, NKJV)
“… Obedience is better than Sacrifice …” (1 Samuel 15:22)
We cannot expect Unbelievers without Christ to just forgive the past where their children died killed by your “Christian Armies” when you with Christ itself cannot forgive them for the same war reason. Can you see it? In short with Christ you cannot forgive, then how can an unbeliever without Christ forgive likewise?
If you cannot forgive your Children-murderers, maybe you are not forgiven too according to this Verse:
“… But if you do not forgive, neither will your Father in heaven forgive your trespasses.” …” (Mark 11:26, NKJV)
Please don’t Flatter yourself if you and your family are involved in “human wars”. This may be a sign that “your heart is not loyal to God” as the Verse below gives the “Curse of Wars” toward such “unfaithful in heart” (Quoted in Principle):
“… For the eyes of the LORD run to and fro throughout the whole earth, to show Himself strong on behalf of those WHOSE HEART IS LOYAL TO HIM. In this you have DONE FOOLISHLY; therefore from NOW ON YOU SHALL HAVE WARS. …” (2 Chronicles 16:9, NKJV)
Where are your go to war “New Testament War” Verses?
Tip: It doesn’t exist.
“… But JESUS SAID to him, “Put your sword in its place, for all who take the sword will PERISH BY THE SWORD. …” (Matthew 26:52, NKJV)
Here’s the Best Biblical Advice on this: War doesn’t help your children. It curses them. Maybe you are reaping that curse now for the war your forefathers started profaning the Name of Christ. Repentance is easy: stop the war, stop killing your enemies and start loving them like this as Christ Commanded the Will of the Father in this as follows:
“… 38“You have heard that it was said, ‘An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth.’ [Deuteronomy 19:21 ] 39BUT I TELL YOU NOT to RESIST an EVIL PERSON. But whoever slaps you on your right cheek, turn the other to him also. 40If anyone wants to sue you and take away your tunic, let him have your cloak also. 41And whoever compels you to go one mile, go with him two. 42Give to him who asks you, and from him who wants to borrow from you do not turn away. 43“You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall love your neighbor and HATE YOUR ENEMY.’ 44[o]BUT I SAY TO YOU, LOVE YOUR ENEMIES, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you, 45that you may be SONS OF YOUR FATHER in heaven; for He makes His sun rise on the EVIL AND ON THE GOOD, and sends rain on the JUST AND ON THE UNJUST. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 5:38 – 45, NKJV)
If you cannot obey, maybe you are not a Christian:
“… My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (John 10:27, NKJV)
“… IF YOU LOVE ME, KEEP [Obey] MY COMMANDMENTS. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (John 14:15, NKJV)
All the best.
Peace to you
Colonial Wars vs Police – Different Context in Scripture
Question
Aren’t the Christians going for War against Evildoers is justified because they are oppressors, murderers, rapists etc.?
Reply
Civil Authority is not in question here. You are mixing context. I’m talking about colonial wars and those kind of non-loving of enemies.
The Government Authorities Paul wrote about was Roman which was raping Jewish women and killing the Jews while Christ was alive (or Christians too later) but Christ didn’t ask to kill them. But not all Romans are evil as Cornelius shows.
So such in Authority can execute Judgment and will be judged if they don’t or if they execute wrongly. I’m talking about the war type here where you cannot execute unbelievers in wars claiming the same context as that’s not in New Testament Scripture where the latter is murder, covetousness and robbery to gain “Gold” and mix it with “Gospel” (to make it look noble) and “Glory” (Self pride).
Romans 13:4 only allows whichever government is ruling (even if it’s a Christian Killing or Christian Raping one such as the Roman Government one when this Verse was written) that Government (and not Christians or civilians) to execute Judgment toward those who do evil and if they don’t they will face judgment likewise for their wrongs, Verse
“… For he is God’s minister to you for good. But if you do evil, be afraid; for he does not bear the sword in vain; for he is God’s minister, an avenger to execute wrath on him who practices evil. …” (Romans 13:4, NKJV)
Can you see it?
Killing your enemies in the name of Christ is not a religious duty nor commissioned as a duty to the Church but the Government only even if it’s an unbelieving Pagan Roman Government which sometimes Rapes or Plunders (which God will Judge) but we still ought to respect it, Verse:
“… 1Let every soul be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and the authorities that exist are appointed by God. 2Therefore whoever resists the authority resists the ordinance of God, and those who resist will [a]bring judgment on themselves. 3For rulers are not a terror to good works, but to evil. Do you want to be unafraid of the authority? Do what is good, and you will have praise from the same. 4For he is God’s minister to you for good. But if you do evil, be afraid; for he does not bear the sword in vain; for he is God’s minister, an avenger to execute wrath on him who practices evil. 5Therefore you must be subject, not only because of wrath but also for conscience’ sake. 6For because of this you also pay taxes, for they are God’s ministers attending continually to this very thing. 7Render therefore to all their due: taxes to whom taxes are due, customs to whom customs, fear to whom fear, honor to whom honor. …” (Romans 13:1 – 7, NKJV)
No Command here for a Civilian Christian to “play the police” or equivalent unless they work in Law Enforcement of the Ruling Government.
Last but not least, if you are so keen on executing justice with the sword, please join the police and do it and not wage a war on civilians in another country killing their children, parent for whatever reason and then when they do it back to your citizens, you claim this Verse in Romans 13:4 which is ‘completely out of context’.
Peace to you
Charity Doctrine Requirement in God’s Definition of Holiness in Ezekiel – Watchman Mystery
Firstly, in Ezekiel we find one of the Fastest and Surest Way to Hell – Money Lending and Usury Business
1) Why should we bother to write or warn about this sin or others which are mentioned in the Book of Ezekiel?
“… When I say to the wicked, ‘O wicked man, you shall surely die!’ and you do not speak to warn the wicked from his way, that wicked man shall die in his iniquity; BUT HIS BLOOD I WILL REQUIRE AT YOUR HAND. …” (Ezekiel 33:8, NKJV)
2) As for those who borrow out money at interest, they risk a straight ticket to Hell according to this Verse:
“… lends money at interest and takes interest; will he live? He will not live! He has committed all these abominations, he shall certainly be put to death; his blood will be on himself. …” (Ezekiel 18:14, NASB)
If someone says the Verse doesn’t mean that and speaks against what’s plainly written, do you want to take a risk and follow their “thinking/opinion” and if wrong go to Hell?
3) You can borrow money and receive as much back by choice
“… “If you lend money to any of My people who are poor among you, you shall not be like a moneylender to him; you shall not charge him interest. …” (Exodus 22:25, NKJV)
4) To a foreigner God Allowed interest to be charged
“… 19“You shall not charge interest to your brother—interest on money or food or anything that is lent out at interest. 20To a foreigner you may charge interest, but to your brother you shall not charge interest, that the Lord your God may bless you in all to which you set your hand in the land which you are entering to possess. …” (Deuteronomy 23:19, NKJV)
So banking seems okay but if an interest is charged above what banks charge as interest if charged by moneylenders I think it’s considered oppression and thus the straight to Hell ticket of point 2) applies.
5) The higher way for “Heavenly Rewards” (unimaginable) is to borrow money without receiving anything back in return toward others including enemies even
“… Why do you not rather accept wrong? WHY DO YOU NOT RATHER LET YOURSELVES BE CHEATED? 8No, you yourselves do wrong and cheat, and you do these things to your brethren! …” (1 Corinthians 6:7 – 8, NKJV)
“… 34And if YOU LEND to those from whom you HOPE TO RECEIVE BACK, what credit is that to you? For even sinners lend to sinners to receive as much back. 35But LOVE YOUR ENEMIES, DO GOOD, AND LEND, [h]HOPING FOR NOTHING IN RETURN; and your REWARD WILL BE GREAT, and YOU WILL BE SONS OF THE MOST HIGH. For He is KIND to the UNTHANKFUL AND EVIL. 36Therefore be merciful, just as your Father also is merciful. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 6:34 – 36, NKJV)
Conclusion
Never borrow money from these money lenders at all. You don’t need a lifestyle from which you need to borrow money. If borrow from bank, try to avoid it. If cannot borrow from bank, you don’t need to improve lifestyle by risk of borrowing or this happens. Better to be poor, alive and peaceful.
How to live Righteously according to these “Bible Verses” in Ezekiel as per the Warning in Ezekiel itself (so same Context) by God Himself? Please consider what “God Himself Answers” with no interpretation or exegesis but only “what is Written” as what He Requires for a Person to be considered “Righteous” before Him, to quote:
“… 4“Behold, all souls are Mine;
The soul of the father
As well as the soul of the son is Mine;
THE SOUL WHO SINS SHALL DIE.
5But if a man is just
And does what is lawful and right;
6If he has not eaten [a]on the mountains,
Nor lifted up his eyes to the idols of the house of Israel,
Nor defiled his neighbor’s wife,
Nor approached a woman during her impurity;
7If he has not oppressed anyone,
But has restored to the debtor his pledge;
Has robbed no one by violence,
But has GIVEN HIS BREAD TO THE HUNGRY
And COVERED THE NAKED WITH CLOTHING;
8If he has not [b]exacted usury
Nor taken any increase,
But has withdrawn his hand from iniquity
And executed true [c]judgment between man and man;
9If he has walked in My statutes
And kept My judgments faithfully—
He is just;
He shall surely live!”
Says the Lord God. …” (Ezekiel 18:4 – 9, NKJV)
Comments for Details from the above for easier understanding, please consider that a “Righteous” Man needs to live observing the following:
1) The Verses above is Written in the Context of Afterlife Judgment too as the “soul which sins will die” and we know that many of the wicked never die on earth* for their sins
“… 4“Behold, all souls are Mine;
The soul of the father
As well as the soul of the son is Mine;
THE SOUL WHO SINS SHALL DIE. …” (Ezekiel 18:4, NKJV)
*Example of Wicked being prosperous whilst being evil to their last breath with no diseases even:
“… 3For I was envious of the boastful, When I saw the prosperity of the wicked. 4For there are no pangs in their death, But their strength is firm. 5They are not in trouble as other men, Nor are they plagued like other men. … 7Their eyes bulge with abundance; They have more than heart could wish. … 12Behold, these are the ungodly, Who are always at ease; They increase in riches. …” (Psalms 73:3 – 5, 7, 12, NKJV)
2) The righteous never Pray to Idols nor commit adultery with anyone’s wife
“… 6If he has not eaten [a]on the mountains,
Nor lifted up his eyes to the idols of the house of Israel,
Nor defiled his neighbor’s wife,
Nor approached a woman during her impurity; …” (Ezekiel 18:6, NKJV)
Comment: God understands that some of the righteous may have fallen in this sin and repented such as King David himself. New Testament Verse speaking of such repentance allowed now:
“… 9Do you not know that the unrighteous will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived. Neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor [b]homosexuals, nor [c]sodomites, 10nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners will inherit the kingdom of God. 11And SUCH WERE SOME OF YOU. BUT YOU WERE WASHED, but YOU WERE [D]SANCTIFIED, but you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus and by the Spirit of our God. …” (1 Corinthians 6:9 – 11, NKJV)
3) The Righteous never cheat anyone be it financially nor oppress anyone including not oppressing the poor to work for low wages whilst you earn well being at the top of the economic chain due to your race/politics manipulation or equivalent – all these are examples of “oppression”
“… 7If he has not oppressed anyone,
But has restored to the debtor his pledge;
Has robbed no one by violence, …” (Ezekiel 18:7, NKJV)
4) The Righteous Practice the Charity Doctrine Lifestyle which is the opposite of Oppression
“… But has given his bread to the hungry
And covered the naked with clothing; …” (Ezekiel 18:7, 2nd part, NKJV)
Can you see that the “Charity Doctrine” is part of the Holiness Command required by God Himself in these Ezekiel Verses for a “soul not to die” in afterlife Judgments?
5) The Righteous never does money lending at interest nonsense and treats people well and fairly as per their actions
“… 8If he has not [b]exacted usury
Nor taken any increase,
But has withdrawn his hand from iniquity
And executed true [c]judgment between man and man;
9If he has walked in My statutes
And kept My judgments faithfully—
He is just;
He shall surely live!”
Says the Lord God. …” (Ezekiel 18:8 – 9, NKJV)
Says Who? Please read the last line again:
“… SAYS THE LORD GOD …” (Ezekiel 18:9, NKJV)
Comment: If someone says that this Verse 7 (Charity Doctrine part) is an option or example which can be ignored, then can you ignore say verse 6 and pray to Idols sometimes but do the rest? Absurd, right? That’s why it is important to observe each of these Commands which God Directly Summarises for the “Holiness” which He Requires so that a “soul does not die” in afterlife Judgments. So if you didn’t teach these Verses, this Warning Verse in Ezekiel (same Context, Same Book) may Condemn you:
“… When I say to the wicked, ‘You shall surely die,’ and you give him no warning, nor speak to warn the wicked from his wicked way, to save his life, that same wicked man shall die in his iniquity; but HIS BLOOD I WILL REQUIRE AT YOUR HAND. …” (Ezekiel 3:18, NKJV)
Can you see the “Warning in words only” type of “Judgment” God Instructs with no further instructions to kill the wicked to stop evil? We obey this and do & preach likewise. Yes, are we a faithful “Watchman” for the Lord? Then please Warn others to obey these Verses:
“… But if the watchman sees the sword coming and does not blow the trumpet, and the people are not warned, and the sword comes and takes any person from among them, he is taken away in his iniquity; but HIS BLOOD I WILL REQUIRE AT THE WATCHMAN’S HAND.’ …” (Ezekiel 33:6, NKJV)
What if they refuse to repent or don’t want to warn others as per the Commands in these Verses? Let God Deal with them as our work is done and we are saved, Verse:
“… Nevertheless if you warn the wicked to turn from his way, and he does not turn from his way, he shall die in his iniquity; but YOU HAVE DELIVERED YOUR SOUL. …” (Ezekiel 33:9, NKJV)
“… 26Therefore I testify to you this day that I am innocent[e] of the blood of all men. 27For I have NOT [F]SHUNNED TO DECLARE TO YOU THE WHOLE COUNSEL OF GOD. …” (Ezekiel 20:26 – 27, NKJV)
Special Focus Repeat: Did you notice that the “Charity Doctrine” is part of this Command of being “Righteous” before God? I repeat with that part for emphasis for us to ponder on it:
“… But has GIVEN HIS BREAD TO THE HUNGRY
And COVERED THE NAKED WITH CLOTHING; …9If he has walked in My statutes
And kept My judgments faithfully—
He is just;
He shall surely live!”
SAYS THE LORD GOD. …” – via Blessed Prophet Ezekiel (Ezekiel 18:7, 9, NKJV)
Peace to you
Doing Good Mystery – Fulfilling the Great Commission and Safe Route Scripturally
Are we Loyal to God or Family? – Legendary King David’s Famous Last Words
Blessed King David Prophesies that his own family is not right with God but a True King ought to be Fair with no Partiality even toward his own family members in Verses below which are also his last words before he passed away:
“… 1Now THESE ARE THE LAST WORDS OF DAVID.
Thus says DAVID the son of Jesse;
Thus says THE MAN RAISED UP ON HIGH,
The anointed of the God of Jacob,
And the sweet psalmist of Israel:
2“The Spirit of the Lord spoke by me,
And His word was on my tongue.
3The GOD OF ISRAEL SAID,
The ROCK OF ISRAEL spoke to me:
‘HE WHO RULES OVER MEN MUST BE JUST,
Ruling in the fear of God.
4And he shall be like the light of the morning when the sun rises,
A morning without clouds,
Like the tender grass springing out of the earth,
By clear shining after rain.’
5“ALTHOUGH MY HOUSE IS NOT SO WITH GOD,
Yet He has made with me an everlasting covenant,
Ordered in all things and secure.
For this is all my salvation and all my desire;
Will He not make it increase?
6But the SONS OF REBELLION SHALL ALL BE AS THORNS THRUST AWAY,
Because they cannot be taken with hands. …” (2 Samuel 23:1 – 6, NKJV)
Comments: please notice these phrases from the above:
1) No partially (or special favour) toward family or anyone but fair to all by merit and good work and good character
“… 3The GOD OF ISRAEL SAID,
The ROCK OF ISRAEL spoke to me:
‘HE WHO RULES OVER MEN MUST BE JUST,
Ruling in the fear of God. …”
2) His own family is not right with God and he is “not” hiding it secretly but “confesses” it “openly in public”
“… 5“ALTHOUGH MY HOUSE IS NOT SO WITH GOD, … 6But the SONS OF REBELLION SHALL ALL BE AS THORNS THRUST AWAY, …”
Conclusion
Blessed King David’s heart is “not” on his family or anyone but on “God Only” as these Verses clearly Demonstrate. No wonder even in the New Testament Verses, he is the only one whom Scripture has identified as the Man after God’s Own Heart by Fulfilling God’s Will (despite even committing murder and adultery but repenting of it). Verse:
“… And when He had removed him, He raised up for them DAVID AS KING, to whom also He gave testimony and said, ‘I have found DAVID THE SON OF JESSE, A MAN AFTER MY OWN HEART, WHO WILL DO ALL MY WILL.’ …” (Acts 13:22, NKJV)
Note: Doing God’s Will is obeying what is given in a Covenant where we may test ourselves against “New Testament Verses only”.
Another great mystery of the heart which we see in King David’s life was when he Spoke these words by the Inspiration of the Holy Spirit in identifying that a love of a friend is greater than love of a wife even:
“… I am distressed for you, my BROTHER JONATHAN; You have been very pleasant to me; YOUR LOVE to me was WONDERFUL, SURPASSING THE LOVE OF WOMEN. …” – Blessed King David (2 Samuel 1:26, NKJV)
Note: This is not an LGBT statement as please notice that King David calls Jonathan as “brother” in the first line and not as a “lover”. Jonathan was to be the first king of Israel as he was the first Prince of Israel but he immediately supported this farmer boy David who reared sheep because God Chose him instead. Instead of Hating David or being jealous of David, Jonathan not only supported him to be king of Israel but also protected him from his wicked father Saul who was trying to do the best for family which is kill David & make his own son king. Jonathan understood and accepted that David is a way greater man than he is. King David even married Jonathan’s sister but yet he declares by God’s Inspiration that “… his love of friendship and self sacrifice was better than even of women (of wife or family even) …” by this phrase from Verse above “… my BROTHER Jonathan; You have been very pleasant to me; YOUR LOVE to me was wonderful, SURPASSING THE LOVE OF WOMEN. …” (2 Samuel 1:26) as Jonathan died for David in a way eventually by protecting David from his evil father Saul who by his own self-ambition caused them to die in battle.
Jonathan’s Death affected David so much that he slew all the enemies eventually as per Verses below (note: this Judgment on Earth part is cancelled by Christ for the New Testament ya called the “Song of the Bow”):
“… 14So David said to him, “How was it you were not afraid to put forth your hand to destroy the Lord’s anointed?” 15Then David called one of the young men and said, “Go near, and execute him!” And he struck him so that he died. 16So David said to him, “Your blood is on your own head, for your own mouth has testified against you, saying, ‘I have killed the Lord’s anointed.’ ” 17Then David lamented with this lamentation over Saul and over Jonathan his son, 18and he told them to teach the children of Judah the SONG OF THE BOW; indeed it is written in the Book [c]of Jasher: … The bow of Jonathan did not turn back, And the sword of Saul did not return empty. … 23“Saul and Jonathan were beloved and pleasant in their lives, And in their death they were not divided; They were swifter than eagles, They were stronger than lions. … 25“How the mighty have fallen in the midst of the battle! JONATHAN was SLAIN in your high places. 26I am distressed for you, my BROTHER JONATHAN; You have been very pleasant to me; YOUR LOVE to me was WONDEFUL, SURPASSING the LOVE of WOMEN. …” (2 Samuel 1:14 – 18, 23 – 26 NKJV)
God’s Love is Greatest in Christ toward us but after that comes friends as per Verse below too where His Greatest Love itself is Spoken in Analogy of a friend proving this Context
“… 13GREATER LOVE has no one than this, than to LAY DOWN ONE’S LIFE FOR HIS FRIENDS. 14You are My friends if you do whatever I command you. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (John 15:13 – 14, NKJV)
Many people simply throw words such as family is best or did this and that to them without realising that it could have been an “unfairness” which they receive not by merit/good deeds but just because they’re family which is a type of nepotism at home itself. These same people complain when a political party or politicians do the same which they do at home. They say is public money but they forget it’s what’s due to government. Do we take our own money and give to charity or try to keep much for family only? such is the challenge in these situations. Such things prove our character if we receive things which we don’t deserve. A righteous man only takes what he “needs” (not his wants) and shares the rest with others as many Verses Testify as we have seen. If a righteous person keeps money, he doesn’t enjoy them with prosperity but keeps it to share to his family’s needs (not wants) and others’ needs when the time comes as even the cases of say Blessed Patriarch Abraham or Blessed Job showed. No verse ever stated Blessed Abraham or Blessed Job feasting lavishly though it was their money but the children of Job did such gluttony (Job 1:4 – 5).
Blessed King David’s own son wrote this Bible Truth too:
” … while I was still searching but not finding— I FOUND ONE UPRIGHT MAN AMONG A THOUSAND, BUT NOT ONE UPRIGHT WOMAN AMONG THEM ALL. …” (Ecclesiastes 7:28, NIV)
Comment: The Verse above was Written by the wisest human ever lived (King Solomon, King David’s son) and he had 700 wives and 300 concubines from among the finest woman who are daughters of kings and others from surrounding nations (1 kings 11:3). So he knows by experience what he is talking about and wrote by God’s Wisdom the verse above. This is the same Blessed King Solomon of whom it is Written below that no one will come to refute his wisdom or even experience more than him to be able to say otherwise:
“… 10The speech pleased the Lord, that Solomon had asked this thing. 11Then God said to him: “Because you have asked this thing, and have not asked long life for yourself, NOR HAVE ASKED RICHES for yourself, nor have asked the life of your enemies, but have asked for yourself understanding to discern justice, 12behold, I have done according to your words; see, I have given you a wise and understanding heart, so that there has NOT BEEN ANYONE LIKE YOU BEFORE YOU, NOR SHALL ANY LIKE YOU ARISE AFTER YOU. 13And I have also GIVEN YOU WHAT YOU HAVE NOT ASKED: both riches and honor, so that there shall NOT BE ANYONE LIKE YOU AMONG THE KINGS all your days. 14So if you walk in My ways, to keep My statutes and My commandments, as your father David walked, then I will lengthen[c] your days.” …” (1 Kings 3:10 – 14, NKJV)
Comment: The Problem with human beings is that they don’t want to admit Biblical Truths. They want to exalt their “flesh”. Example: they want to say that their “family” or say “wife” is the best etc. for their own pride whilst she might not even Fulfill half the Virtues of a “Prudent Wife” even as per Verses below (also Written by God’s Wisdom in King Solomon), examples:
- A Prudent Wife doesn’t take her husband’s money at all and chooses to work by her own will/choice
“… 13She seeks wool and flax,
And WILLINGLY WORKS with her hands.
14She is like the merchant ships,
She brings her food from afar. …” (Proverbs 31:13 – 15, NKJV)
- A Prudent Wife provides from her “own work” working from early morning to late night toward her family
“… 15She also RISES WHILE IT IS YET NIGHT,
And PROVIDES FOOD FOR HER HOUSEHOLD,
And a portion for her maidservants.
16She considers a field and buys it;
From [E]HER PROFITS she plants a vineyard.
17She girds herself with strength, And strengthens her arms.
18She perceives that her merchandise is good,
And her LAMP DOES NOT GO OUT BY NIGHT.
19She stretches out HER HANDS TO THE DISTAFF,
And HER HAND HOLDS THE SPINDLE. …” (Proverbs 31:15 – 19, NKJV)
- A Prudent Wife doesn’t just provide for her family but also for the Poor at the same time practising the Charity Doctrine
“… 20She EXTENDS HER HAND TO THE POOR, Yes, she REACHES OUT HER HANDS TO THE NEEDY. 21She is not afraid of snow for her household, For all her household is clothed with scarlet. …” (Proverbs 31:20 – 21, NKJV)
- A Prudent Wife has a Wise Husband who is Renown among the Elders of the Land
“… 23HER HUSBAND IS KNOWN in the GATES, When HE SITS AMONG THE ELDERS of the LAND. …” (Proverbs 31:23, NKJV)
- A Prudent Wife does business and earns
“… 24She makes linen garments and sells them,
And supplies sashes for the merchants.
25Strength and honor are her clothing;
She shall rejoice in time to come. …” (Proverbs 31:24 – 25, NKJV)
- A Prudent Wife is not proud or a show off but despite earning so much and doing so much she is soooo KIND (humble) and doesn’t sit in the house and eat the “bread of idleness” (which is eating from not working/not doing any good works or equivalent like a ‘princess mentality of I’m pretty & I deserve it’)
“… 26She opens her mouth with wisdom,
And on her tongue is the LAW OF KINDNESS.
27She watches over the ways of her household,
And DOES NOT EAT THE BREAD OF IDLENESS. …”.
- Respect is Earned and no wonder a woman like that which is “not” trying to be some “spiritual leader” coveting What is not her role Scripturally but rather focuses on the “work to serve” (humility brings respect and honour in the sight of God) and so both her husband and children “Praise” her as she is better than other women (as the Bible Compares so we ought to compare too by merit as follows)
“… 28Her CHILDREN rise up and call her BLESSED;
Her HUSBAND also, and he PRAISES her:
29“Many daughters have done well,
But YOU EXCEL THEM ALL.” …” (Proverbs 31:28 – 29, NKJV)
- A Prudent Wife may not be beautiful physically at all but God Says to judge a woman’s worth by HER WORK (which also proves whether she fears God or not) as per ending Verses below from this chapter
“… 30Charm is deceitful and beauty is passing,But a WOMAN WHO FEARS THE LORD, she shall be praised. 31Give her of the fruit of her hands, And let HER OWN WORKS PRAISE HER In the gates. …” (Proverbs 31:30 – 31, NKJV)
- Can you find her? To such a perfect God-Fearing woman (a Prudent/Virtuous wife) only the start of this Chapter Calls her as follows deservingly by “merit” and “her good works” which proves that she “abides in the fear of the Lord” as follows:
“… 10WHO[C] CAN FIND A [D]VIRTUOUS WIFE?
For HER WORTH IS FAR ABOVE RUBIES.
11The heart of her husband safely trusts her;
So he will have no lack of gain.
12She does him good and not evil
All the days of her life. …” (Proverbs 31:10 – 12, NKJV)
In short, if we don’t fulfill these Verses, it’s not talking about us. We should not falsely flatter wrongly using the “Word of God” just to gratify the human “pride/flesh” just because it’s our “mother/family/wife” etc. unless these are Fulfilled.
Conclusion
Hardly she can be found and the Verse below puts a curse for those who ‘put woman first in their heart before God’ by the sign that they will marry a woman whose heart is a “trap” (as such men will be suffering to get her attention becoming toys in her hands all his life of hurt & being used like that in chains to fulfill her “wants”) which they cannot utter (lest they look foolish) so they cover up by saying they have the best wife but inwardly suffer for it daily because she is “not” Fulfilling most of the Verses above for a True Prudent Wife which is a state “worse than death” according to Verse below (so please don’t choose anyone who doesn’t fit the Bible Verses above if you want to be married):
“… I find MORE BITTER THAN DEATH the WOMAN WHO IS A SNARE, WHOSE HEART IS A TRAP and whose HANDS ARE CHAINS. The Man Who Pleases GOD will ESCAPE HER, BUT THE SINNER SHE WILL ENSNARE. … while I was still searching but not finding— I FOUND ONE UPRIGHT MAN AMONG A THOUSAND, BUT NOT ONE UPRIGHT WOMAN AMONG THEM ALL. …” (Ecclesiastes 7:26, 28, NIV)
I repeat: so please don’t choose anyone who doesn’t fit the Bible Verses above if you want to be married. So the best is to remain “unmarried” to be spared from all these “trouble” and can focus on Christ’s Commands which are Way Greater, Verse:
“… 28 But even if you do marry, you have not sinned; and if a virgin marries, she has not sinned. Nevertheless such will have TROUBLE IN THE FLESH, but I WOULD SPARE YOU. … 32But I want you to be without care. He who is UNMARRIED CARES FOR THE THINGS OF THE LORD—how he may PLEASE THE LORD. 33But HE WHO IS MARRIED CARES about the THINGS OF THE WORLD—how he may PLEASE HIS WIFE. … 38So then he who GIVES HER IN MARRIAGE DOES WELL, but he WHO DOES NOT GIVE HER IN MARRIAGE DOES BETTER. …” (1 Corinthians 7:28, 32 – 33, 38, NKJV)
The Curse for men who prefer praising women who are actually just deceitful as they’re trying to marry a rich man or for security or what they can gain or a mixture of these + little bit of love is clearly evident by how much they will deviate from the Virtues listed above regarding the Prudent Wife in comparison. Can you see it? Human beings being imperfect will fall in a continuous range according to their virtue.
Can you see how much the “Word of God” puts emphasis on one’s “Work of Virtue” first before praising them as “God-Fearing“? (Proverbs 31: 30 earlier) In other words a God-Fearing woman is proven by how much she fulfills the Verses above in “Works”. Can you see it? Please read Proverbs 31 again in your own favourite Bible Version.
The First Christianity Writing of the Didache Clearly Writes this Aspect of Loving some even beyond your life as part of the “Way of Life” in contrast to the “Way of Death” by which there is a “Great Difference” too, to quote these selected parts:
“… There are two ways, ONE OF LIFE and ONE OF DEATH; but a GREAT DIFFERENCE between the two ways. “This is the WAY OF LIFE: first, thou shalt love the God who made thee, secondly, thy neighbor as thyself: and all things whatsoever thou wouldest not should happen to thee, do not thou to another. The teaching of these words is this: BLESS THOSE WHO CURSE YOU, and PRAY FOR YOUR ENEMIES, and FAST ON BEHALF of THOSE WHO PERSECUTE YOU: for WHAT THANKS WILL BE DUE TO YOU, IF YE LOVE ONLY THOSE WHO LOVE YOU? Do not the Gentiles also do the same? But LOVE YE THOSE WHO HATE YOU [Luke 6:27 – 36]*, and ye shall not have an enemy.” … You shall not hate any man; but some you shall reprove, and concerning some you shall pray, and SOME YOU SHALL LOVE MORE THAN YOUR OWN LIFE. …”~ The Didache, also known as The Teachings of the 12 Apostles, is an early Christian document written between 80AD – 90AD (Chapter 1, 2)
Source: https://www.newadvent.org/fathers/0714.htm
*[Emphasis Mine, please compare with that Bible Verses]
The “Way of Life” Vs “Way of Death” in the above based on Christ’s Commands in Luke 6:27 – 36 (quoted at the end of this writing) reminds me of this Verse:
“… There is a way that seems right to a man, But its end is the way of death. …” (Proverbs 14:12, NKJV)
True Believing in Christ includes a Way of Living too.
This Proves the seriousness of “Works” to demonstrate the “Fear of God” in our lives. A Prudent Wife does the above for “her family only” which is great but the “Greater Way” is to do the above “beyond family” toward “enemies too” as CHRIST COMMAND FOR PERFECTION in Verses below (can you understand it now, please “as it is Written”?):
“… 32“But IF YOU LOVE THOSE WHO LOVE YOU, WHAT CREDIT IS THAT TO YOU? …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 6:32, NKJV)
“… WHAT DO YOU DO MORE THAN OTHERS? …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 5:47, NKJV)
“… 33And IF YOU DO GOOD TO THOSE WHO DO GOOD TO YOU, WHAT CREDIT IS THAT TO YOU? …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 6:33, NKJV)
These Verses in “full”, please consider:
“…27“But I say to you who hear: LOVE YOUR ENEMIES, DO GOOD to those who hate you, 28bless those who curse you, and pray for those PRAY FOR THOSE WHO SPITEFULLY USE YOU. 29To him who strikes you on the one cheek, offer the other also. And from him who takes away your cloak, do not withhold your tunic either. 30GIVE to everyone who asks of you. And from him who takes away your goods DO NOT ASK THEM BACK. 31And just as you want men to do to you, you also do to them likewise. 32“But IF YOU LOVE THOSE WHO LOVE YOU, WHAT CREDIT IS THAT TO YOU? For even sinners love those who love them. 33And IF YOU DO GOOD TO THOSE WHO DO GOOD TO YOU, WHAT CREDIT IS THAT TO YOU? For even sinners do the same. 34And if YOU LEND to those from whom you HOPE TO RECEIVE BACK, what credit is that to you? For even sinners lend to sinners to receive as much back. 35But LOVE YOUR ENEMIES, DO GOOD, AND LEND, [h]HOPING FOR NOTHING IN RETURN; and your REWARD WILL BE GREAT, and YOU WILL BE SONS OF THE MOST HIGH. For He is KIND to the UNTHANKFUL AND EVIL. 36Therefore be merciful, just as your Father also is merciful. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 6:27 – 36, NKJV)
Please notice this part carefully which is a GREAT REWARD (If Christ Calls it Great, it must be unimaginable) that is only toward those who have Practiced this DOING GOOD (e.g. in giving knowledge or material things) toward ENEMIES even LENDING (Money/things) to them and NOT RECEIVING BACK, to quote from the above again, in highlight:
“… 33And IF YOU DO GOOD TO THOSE WHO DO GOOD TO YOU, WHAT CREDIT IS THAT TO YOU? For even sinners do the same. 34And if YOU LEND to those from whom you HOPE TO RECEIVE BACK, what credit is that to you? For even sinners lend to sinners to receive as much back. 35But LOVE YOUR ENEMIES, DO GOOD, AND LEND, [h]HOPING FOR NOTHING IN RETURN; and your REWARD WILL BE GREAT, and YOU WILL BE SONS OF THE MOST HIGH. …” (Luke 6:33 – 35, NKJV)
Please don’t lose Christ’s Great Rewards by Ignoring these Verses and choosing to hate/, boycott or harm your enemies instead disobeying Him in these Verses.
Last but not least these Verses Fulfill the Great Commission as part of “… 20TEACHING THEM TO OBSERVE ALL THINGS THAT I HAVE COMMANDED YOU …” part:
“… 18And Jesus came and spoke to them, saying, “All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. 19Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20TEACHING THEM TO OBSERVE ALL THINGS THAT I HAVE COMMANDED YOU; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” Amen. …” (Matthew 28:18 – 20, NKJV)
If we fail we may be “least” for not teaching “His Direct New Testament Commands” in these “Perfection” Verses:
“… 19Whoever therefore BREAKS one of the LEAST of THESE COMMANDMENTS, and TEACHES men so, shall be called LEAST in the kingdom of HEAVEN; but whoever DOES AND TEACHES them, he shall be called GREAT in the kingdom of HEAVEN. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 5:19, NKJV)
Peace to you
Will of the Father Mystery – Safe Route Scripturally
Doing the Will of the Father is to be like God the Father. Is God the Father immediately intervening right now directly whenever evil is committed? No, right? He set a Day for the World to be Judged and until then is not executing “His Judgment” yet, Verse:
“…because He has appointed a day on which He will judge the world in righteousness by the Man whom He has ordained. He has given assurance of this to all by raising Him from the dead.” …” (Acts 17:31, NKJV)
That’s why we don’t play God trying to Judge Evil now as per His Command next to be “like the Father” likewise.
Will of the Father is to be in Action like the Father which Christ describes like this: Yes, Matthew 5:38 identifies the context as the evil person which is not a Christian. In Matthew 5:39 – 44, same consecutive Context, Christ’s Love your enemies He Says to Emulate the Father who makes the sun or rain on the “good/just” and “evil/just” implying being kind and doing good to both the Christian and non-Christian again in verses below (‘not’ opinions of men) so directly even:
“… 38“You have heard that it was said, ‘An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth.’ [Deuteronomy 19:21 ] 39BUT I TELL YOU NOT to RESIST an EVIL PERSON. But whoever slaps you on your right cheek, turn the other to him also. 40If anyone wants to sue you and take away your tunic, let him have your cloak also. 41And whoever compels you to go one mile, go with him two. 42Give to him who asks you, and from him who wants to borrow from you do not turn away. 43“You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall love your neighbor and HATE YOUR ENEMY.’ 44[o]BUT I SAY TO YOU, LOVE YOUR ENEMIES, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you, 45that you may be SONS OF YOUR FATHER in heaven; for He makes His sun rise on the EVIL AND ON THE GOOD, and sends rain on the JUST AND ON THE UNJUST. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 5:38 – 45, NKJV)
If the Father is so Amazingly “Unaffected by Evil” at all like this, are we really “Doing the Will of the Father” Likewise as “Christ Commanded” in Verses above (so it’s not an option) but a must to be what He Calls the Greatest Creation ever named the “SONS OF YOUR FATHER IN HEAVEN”?
So, to ‘not’ do this may be the “Lawlessness” of ‘not doing the ‘Will of the Father’ to whom Christ Plainly Denies as “I never knew you” (as they did not emulate the Father) on that Day when He Returns, Verses:
“… 21“Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father in heaven. 22MANY will say to Me in that day, ‘Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in Your name, cast out demons in Your name, and done many wonders in Your name?’ 23And then I will declare to them, ‘I never knew you; depart from Me, you who practice LAWLESSNESS!’ …” (Matthew 7:21 – 23, NKJV)
Please think of the opposite namely, how can someone who tried to ‘Emulate the Father’ as per Verses above be ‘lawless’ when the “Father is like that” (according to Christ) and thus these must be the ‘Undenied ones’, right?
To be like the Father (in Heaven) Who is All-Powerful but yet is so kind even toward Evil like that is so “difficult”, right? That’s why only a “Few” of the Chosen can do this Clear “Will of the Father” in Emulating Mercy only likewise for this Dispensation of Grace:
“… 13“Enter by the narrow gate; for wide is the gate and broad is the way that leads to destruction, and there are many who go in by it. 14[c]Because narrow is the gate and [d]DIFFICULT is the way which LEADS TO LIFE, and there are FEW WHO FIND IT. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus (Matthew 7:13 – 14, NKJV)
This First Christianity Quote by the direct disciple of Blessed Apostle St. Peter himself (who has “no” Prayers to Virgin Mary/Equivalent in his writings) may mean this Context too as How God the Father is “free from anger” and so we ought too likewise being unaffected by evil likewise:
“… let us look steadfastly unto the Father and Maker of the whole world, and cleave unto His splendid and excellent gifts of peace and benefits. Let us behold Him in our mind, and let us look with the eyes of our soul unto His long-suffering will. Let us note how free from anger He is towards all His creatures. …” – Blessed St. Clement of Rome, an Apostolic Father being a direct Disciple of the Blessed Apostle St. Peter (c. 35 AD – 99 AD, 1 Clement 19:2 – 3)
Translation Source:
http://www.earlychristianwritings.com/text/1clement-lightfoot.html
Focus Phrase proving our claim: “how free from anger He is towards all His creatures”
First Christianity quote by the direct disciple of Blessed Apostle St. John (next, who also has no” Prayers to Virgin Mary/Equivalent in his writings) particularly describes the “True Christians” likewise as those who “love their enemies” in this way which proves our exegesis right calling them as “BLESSED” even to inherit the Kingdom:
“… Let us make them brethren by our kindness. For say ye to those that hate you, Ye are our brethren, that the name of the Lord may be glorified. And let us imitate the Lord, “who, when He was reviled, reviled not again ; ” when He was crucified, He answered not; “when He suffered, He threatened not ; “but prayed for His enemies, “Father, forgive them; they know not what they do.” If any one, the more he is injured, displays the more patience, BLESSED IS HE. If any one is defrauded, if any one is despised, for the name of the Lord, he truly is the servant of Christ. Take heed that NO PLANT of the DEVIL be found among you, for such a plant is bitter and salt. “Watch ye, and be ye sober,” in Christ Jesus. …” – Blessed St. Ignatius, Bishop of Antioch, nicknamed ‘God-Bearing’, An Apostolic Father being the direct Disciple of the Blessed Apostle St. John, Martyr for Christ (c. 35 AD – c. 108 AD, Chapter X, Epistle of Ignatius to the Ephesians)
Source:
http://www.earlychristianwritings.com/text/ignatius-ephesians-longer.html
Comment: His phrase ‘…Take heed that NO PLANT of the DEVIL be found among you, for such a plant is bitter and salt. …’ above is written in contrast to those who love their enemies. So those who don’t love their enemies may be “Plants of the Devil”, right? Can you see it?
Here are another two quotes by him which proves this Biblical Context Irrefutably as well with First Christianity:
“… ” You ought therefore to “hate those that hate God, and to waste away [with grief] on account of HIS ENEMIES.” I DO NOT MEAN that you should BEAT THEM or PERSECUTE THEM, as do the Gentiles “that KNOW NOT THE LORD AND GOD; ” but that you should regard them as your enemies, and separate yourselves from them, while yet you admonish them, and exhort them to repentance, if it may be they will hear, if it may be they will submit themselves. For our God is a LOVER OF MANKIND, and “WILL HAVE ALL MEN TO BE SAVED, and to come to the knowledge of the truth.” [1 Timothy 2:4] Wherefore “He makes His sun to rise upon the evil and on the good, and sendeth rain on the just and on the unjust; ” of whose kindness the Lord, wishing us also to be imitators, says, “Be ye perfect, even as also your Father that is in heaven is perfect.” [Matthew 5:44 – 48]…” – Blessed St. Ignatius, Bishop of Antioch, nicknamed ‘God-Bearing’, An Apostolic Father being the direct Disciple of the Blessed Apostle St. John, Martyr for Christ (c. 35 AD – c. 108 AD, Epistle to the Philadelphians, Chapter III)
Source: http://www.earlychristianwritings.com/text/ignatius-philadelphians-longer.html
Comment: His Phrase “… on account of HIS ENEMIES.” I DO NOT MEAN that you should BEAT THEM or PERSECUTE THEM, as do the Gentiles “that KNOW NOT THE LORD AND GOD …” clearly implies that any Christianity (or anyone) who “beats or persecutes” his enemies may NOT KNOW GOD matching Christ’s “.. I never knew you …” in Context of Matthew 7:21 – 23 earlier, right?
Please don’t be deceived and lose either salvation or rewards for earthly hate in human judgment.
“…for the wrath of man does not produce the righteousness of God. …” (James 1:20, NKJV)
Peace to you
God’s Holiness Mystery – Holiness is Incomplete till the Charity Doctrine is Practiced
Ever Looked at this Verse and Observed the Meaning of “God’s Holiness” as Described in this Verse:
“… A FATHER OF THE FATHERLESS, a DEFENDER of WIDOWS, Is GOD IN HIS HOLY HABITATION. …” (Psalm 68:5, NKJV)
Can you see it?
In other words the Definition of God’s Holiness in His “Holy” Place/Habitation is clearly Described as inclusive (or Primarily) being the “God who Helps the Fatherless and Widows”. So, any true Doctrine of Holiness is Incomplete unless it includes this aspect too, right?
In other words, since we must emulate God, we must emulate God in this Biblical aspect of “Holiness” which is to take care of “Orphans or Widows” in any capacity we can. To do more of it means to be “holier”, right? Isn’t it Beautiful and Genius for God to Put the Definition of “Holiness” to include this Charity Doctrine Aspect? Indeed, please consider that same Verse (Psalm 68:5, in image too) in a few Translations below for edification:
New International Version
A father to the fatherless, a defender of widows, is God in his HOLY dwelling.
New Living Translation
Father to the fatherless, defender of widows— this is GOD, whose dwelling is HOLY.
English Standard Version
Father of the fatherless and protector of widows is GOD in his HOLY habitation.
Berean Study Bible
A father of the fatherless, and a defender of the widows, is GOD in His HOLY habitation.
King James Bible
A father of the fatherless, and a judge of the widows, is GOD in his HOLY habitation.
New King James Version
A father of the fatherless, a defender of widows, Is GOD in His HOLY habitation.
New American Standard Bible
A father of the fatherless and a judge for the widows, Is GOD in His HOLY dwelling.
Do you know who “failed” or “ignores” this aspect of “God’s Holiness”? God Clearly points to the “fake gods” (possibly the fallen angels & beyond) who deceive even Christianity even if they can to Ignore this aspect of “God’s Holiness”in the context of Helping the “POOR , NEEDY, AFFLICTED and the FATHERLESS” :
“… 1GOD stands in the congregation of [a]the mighty; HE JUDGES AMONG THE [B]GODS.
2How long will you judge unjustly,
And show partiality to the wicked? Selah
3[c]DEFEND THE POOR and FATHERLESS;
Do justice to the AFFLICTED AND NEEDY.
4Deliver the POOR AND NEEDY;
Free them from the hand of the wicked. …” (Psalm 82:1 – 8, NKJV)
Indeed when Holy Scripture identifies the True God as “God of gods” and “Lord of lords”, it tells only of His Charity Doctrine Works below proving how primary this is:
“… 17For the Lord your God is GOD OF GODS and LORD OF LORDS, the great God, mighty and awesome, who shows no partiality nor takes a bribe. 18He administers JUSTICE FOR THE FATHERLESS and the WIDOW, AND LOVES THE STRANGER, GIVING HIM FOOD AND CLOTHING. 19Therefore love the stranger, for you were strangers in the land of Egypt. …” (Deuteronomy 10:17 – 19, NKJV)
Conclusion
This is our God and we tremble knowing this truth about “His Holiness” which is not commonly Preached.
Likewise, any Christianity (or religion) is incomplete in its “Holiness” unless it Practices this Charity Doctrine and that’s why Blessed Apostle St. James, Inspired by the Holy Spirit of God Penned this as the Religion of a True Christian of the New Testament as follows:
“… 27PURE AND UNDEFILED RELIGION before GOD AND THE FATHER is this: to VISIT ORPHANS AND WIDOWS in THEIR TROUBLE, and to keep oneself unspotted from the world. …” (James 1:27, NKJV)
Did you notice these?
“Holiness” part of “God’s Pure Religion” = “… and to keep oneself unspotted from the world. …” = the “Virginity” part of the Parable of the 5 Wise and 5 Foolish Virgins in Matthew 25:1 – 13.
and
“Charity Doctrine Part of God’s Pure Religion” = “…27PURE AND UNDEFILED RELIGION before GOD AND THE FATHER is this: to VISIT ORPHANS AND WIDOWS in THEIR TROUBLE, …” = the “Oil & Lamp” part of the Parable of the 5 Wise and 5 Foolish Virgins in Matthew 25:1 – 13. as discussed in an earlier post below with Blessed Martin Luther too Preaching this same meaning in Essence:
https://www.facebook.com/jonathan.ramachandran/posts/10160885716652784:0
That’s why both “Holiness” part and “Charity Doctrine” part are required for “Pure Religion” before God as James 1:27 teaches and it’s a false teaching to ignore either and it’s a true teaching to have it both.
This is the “Inward Holiness” which the Pharisees missed and Christ calls the “fools” directly for not doing this “Inward + Outward Sanctification” (of “All”) in His Most Blessed Words referring only to the “Almsgiving” or “Charity Doctrine” to the “Poor”, Verses:
“… 39Then the Lord said to him, “Now you Pharisees make the OUTSIDE OF THE CUP and DISH CLEAN, but YOUR INWARD PART is full of [k]GREED and WICKEDNESS. 40FOOLISH ones! Did not He who made the outside make the inside also? 41But rather GIVE ALMS of [l]SUCH THINGS AS YOU HAVE; then indeed ALL THINGS ARE CLEAN TO YOU …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 11:39 – 41, NKJV)
In another simpler translation:
“… But now as for WHAT IS INSIDE YOU–be GENEROUS TO THE POOR, and EVERYTHING WILL BE CLEAN FOR YOU. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 11:41, NIV)
The Verse below ensures that “no one sees the LORD” until “Holiness” is present:
“… Pursue peace with all people, and HOLINESS, without which NO ONE WILL SEE THE LORD: …” (Hebrews 12:14, NKJV)
Now, please read this Verse (Hebrews 12:14) with the “Holiness Definition of God” which includes the Charity Doctrine of taking care of “Orphans & Widow” Verses as we see above as the “Septuagint” reads the same (implying that there’s no room for argument of any scribal errors), to quote as this is the ‘Song of the Righteous’ on ‘that Day’:
“… 4(67:4) SING TO GOD, sing praises to his name: make a way for him that rides upon the west (the Lord is his name) and exult before him. They shall be troubled before the face of him, 5(67:5) WHO IS THE FATHER OF THE ORPHANS, and JUDGE OF THE WIDOWS: SUCH IS GOD IN HIS HOLY PLACE. …” (Isaiah 68:4 – 5, Brenton Septuagint Translation)
Source: https://biblehub.com/sep/psalms/68.htm
Please notice the Word “Holy” in the above.
So, will we see the Lord?
Are we really “Holy” in light of these Verses too?
This is who He is, “Perfect” and the Greatest Kings among men (example the “King of Judah” described below) completed living out this part of “God’s Holiness” via the “Charity Doctrine toward the Poor and Afflicted” as God Himself Testifies that this is what it means “to know Him” mocking ‘his son, a newly elected king who is more interested in prosperity pursuits such as the expensive log of cedar/furniture’ etc.’ (please read ‘carefully’ below):
“… 15“Do you become a king because you are competing in cedar? Did your father not eat and drink And DO JUSTICE AND RIGHTEOUSNESS? Then it was well for him. 16“HE PLED THE CAUSE OF THE AFFLICTED and THE POOR, then it was well. IS THAT NOT WHAT IT MEANS TO KNOW ME?” DECLARES THE LORD. 17“But your eyes and your heart Are intent only upon your own dishonest gain, And on shedding innocent blood, And on practicing oppression and extortion.” … And YOU WILL SEEK ME AND FIND ME when YOU SEARCH FOR ME WITH ALL YOUR HEART. …” – via Blessed Prophet Jeremiah (Jeremiah 22:15 – 17, 29:13, NASB)
Remember this, the very flames of Hell is no match for “His Holy Word”. Please Trust His “Holy” Word.
Peace to you
Sins of Sodom is more than what’s commonly known – Safe Route Scripturally
Most Christians assume that the “Sin of Sodom” is “LGBT sins only”. If they read the Bible Verses in full, they will discover that it’s more than that. Let’s start.
Yes, I don’t agree with 3rd Gender or 4th gender etc. This is “a” sin of Sodom but not it’s only sin alluded to in these Bible Verses:
“… 9The look on their faces testifies against them, and LIKE SODOM, THEY FLAUNT THEIR SIN; they do not conceal it. Woe to them, for they have brought disaster on themselves. 10Tell the righteous that it will go well for them, for they will eat the fruit of their labor. 11WOE TO THE WICKED — it will go badly for them, FOR WHAT THEY HAVE DONE WILL BE DONE TO THEM. 12Youths oppress my people, and WOMEN RULE OVER THEM. My people, your leaders mislead you; they CONFUSE THE DIRECTION OF YOUR PATHS….” (Isaiah 3:9 – 12, CSB)
Can you see it?
Here it is in the “KJV” translation:
“… 9The shew of their countenance doth witness against them; and THEY DECLARE THEIR SIN AS SODOM, they hide it not. WOE UNTO THEIR SOUL! for they have REWARDED EVIL UNTO THEMSELVES. 10Say ye to the righteous, that it shall be well with him: for they shall eat the fruit of their doings. 11WOE UNTO THE WICKED! it shall be ill with him: for the reward of his hands shall be given him. 12As for my people, children are their oppressors, and WOMEN RULE OVER THEM. O my people, they which lead thee CAUSE THEE TO ERR, AND DESTROY THE WAY OF THY PATHS. …” (Isaiah 3:9 – 12, KJV)
The above tells us that the “Sins of Sodom” includes the following:
1) Sin of Sodom – Spiritual Women Rulers
WOMEN RULE over THEM (Can you see it in Isaiah 3:12 which was written in the context of a Sin of Sodom in Isaiah 3:9 first “as it is written?) —> spiritual context intended as God is Interested in the Rulings Spiritually here over “His People”. The same people who say the translation or context doesn’t mean that are the same scholars who will say that the Bible doesn’t condemn LGBT by manipulating words against what is Written.
Regardless Isaiah 3:12’s “… WOMEN RULE over THEM …” is a “sin” according to these Bible Verses – so whether it is a sin of Sodom or not doesn’t matter but the remarkable consecutive verses coincidence here is interesting, isn’t it?
This is probably why as per the Torah, there were never women priests in the Old Covenant and in the New Testament, women were also prohibited from “Spiritual Leadership” as per Verses below:
“… 34WOMEN F SHOULD REMAIN SILENT IN THE CHURCHES. They are NOT ALLOWED TO SPEAK, but must be in SUBMISSION, as the law says. 35If they want to inquire about something, they should ask their own husbands at home; for it is DISGRACEFUL FOR A WOMAN TO SPEAK IN THE CHURCH. 36Or did the word of God originate with you? Or are you the only people it has reached? 37If anyone thinks they are a PROPHET or otherwise GIFTED BY THE SPIRIT, let them ACKNOWLEDGE that what I am WRITING to you is the LORD’S COMMAND. 38But IF ANYONE IGNORES THIS, THEY WILL THEMSELVES BE IGNORED …” (1 Corinthians 14:34 – 38, NIV)
“… 10but, which is proper for women professing godliness, with good works. 11Let a woman learn in silence with all submission. 12And I DO NOT PERMIT A WOMAN TO TEACH OR TO HAVE AUTHORITY OVER A MAN, BUT TO BE IN SILENCE. …” (1 Timothy 2:10 – 12, NKJV)
Blessed Apostle St. Paul was filled with the Holy Spirit when he wrote the New Testament Verses above. So please guard your mouth to not accidentally Blaspheme the Most Blessed Holy Spirit of God for which there is no Forgiveness as per Matthew 12:31 – 32. So whether God Allows them differently, you take your own risk by following them. I prefer to follow “Written” Verses for which there is no condemnation.
Note: The Bible doesn’t prohibit them from “Preaching the Gospel” (e.g. Priscilla in the New Testament) but “not” from a position of “Spiritual Authority” as per Verses above.
If we want “Lord Jesus” only if he allows women pastors as per your Church, then is your loyalty to Christ or to women for if not, you don’t seem to like that “First Christianity”?
Indeed, if you were receiving Blessed Apostle St. Paul’s letters as per Verses above, would you hate Christ and His Command due to loving women more than him?
“… Obedience is better than Sacrifice …” (1 Samuel 15:22)
I don’t judge those “women pastors” or those who “support them” to be “Unsaved” yet nor do I affirm them to be “Saved” but rather I choose not to judge as I don’t know for sure.
What I know is, as per these quoted Verses and the First New Testament Church Practice, I don’t need to have to endorse any “women pastors” to be “Saved” and obeying these “Written Verses” is the “Safe Route Scripturally” for which there is “no” condemnation even if suppose God used them as they claim.
This Biblical Logic was discussed in an earlier post below:
https://www.facebook.com/651792783/posts/10160895941717784/
If people Ignore us or do evil to us due to Obeying these “Written Bible Verses”, this Verse below may apply:
“… 11Blessed [Makarioi] are you WHEN THEY REVILE AND PERSECUTE YOU, and say ALL KINDS OF EVIL AGAINST YOU FALSELY FOR MY SAKE. 12Rejoice [chairete] and be exceedingly glad, for great is your reward in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you. …” (Matthew 5:11 – 12, NKJV)
2) Sin of Sodom – Strange Sexual Immorality
“… as Sodom and Gomorrah, and the cities around them in a similar manner to these, having given themselves over to sexual immorality and gone after strange flesh, are set forth as an example, suffering the vengeance of eternal fire. …” (Jude 1:7, NKJV)
3) Sin of Sodom – No Charity Doctrine toward the Poor and Enjoying in Luxury/Prosperity Lifestyle
“… Look, this was the iniquity of your sister SODOM: She and her daughter had PRIDE, FULLNESS OF FOOD, and ABUNDANCE OF IDLENESS; NEITHER did she strengthen the hand of the POOR and NEEDY. …” (Ezekiel 16:49, NKJV)
Conclusion
Do we need to Practice the Old Testament Verse below and kill them? No!
“… If a man lies with a male as he lies with a woman, both of them have committed an abomination. They shall surely be put to death. Their blood shall be upon them. …” (Leviticus 20:13, NKJV)
We don’t need to kill or hurt them. Just let them live but we don’t need to agree with them and it’s our right to disagree with their sin verbally with no further Judgment in action. We don’t stone them because Christ has “Cancelled” those “Eye for an eye” Judgment Verses to purge evil on Earth now Verses and replacing it with “do not resist an evil person” & “love your enemies instead” in Verses below:
“… 38“YOU HAVE HEARD THAT IT WAS SAID, ‘An EYE FOR AN EYE and a tooth for a tooth.’ [Deuteronomy 19:19 – 21]. 39But I TELL YOU NOT TO RESIST AN EVIL PERSON. But whoever slaps you on your right cheek, turn the other to him also. 40If anyone wants to sue you and TAKE AWAY YOUR TUNIC, LET HIM HAVE YOUR CLOAK ALSO. 41And whoever compels you to go one mile, go with him two. 42GIVE to him who asks you, and from him WHO WANTS TO BORROW from you DO NOT TURN AWAY. 43“You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ 44[o]But I SAY TO YOU, LOVE YOUR ENEMIES, … 47And if you greet your [p]brethren only, WHAT DO YOU DO MORE THAN OTHERS? …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 5:38 – 44, 47, NKJV)
If a court decides to allow them to have it, that’s their sin but we already spoke in “words only” that it’s wrong and will be Judged by God on “Judgment Day”. Silly fake science arguments won’t work with God as He Will Prove their claims as false and as lust irrefutably.
We don’t need to boycott them or cruelly treat them but let them have jobs or if they’re hungry, feed them as Christ Commanded to “Love your enemies”. So the Charity Doctrine is not Cancelled toward them (or “enemies”) either. Example Verse:
“… Therefore “If your enemy is hungry, feed him; If he is thirsty, give him a drink; For in so doing you will heap coals of fire on his head.” …” (Romans 12:20 or Proverbs 25:21, NKJV)
Peace to you
Giving to other Believers and the Poor is True Worship to God
Verses:
“… 6But this I say: He who SOWS SPARINGLY WILL ALSO REAP SPARINGLY, and he who sows [d]bountifully will also reap [e]bountifully. 7So let EACH ONE GIVE as he purposes in his heart, not grudgingly or of [f]necessity; FOR GOD LOVES A CHEERFUL GIVER. 8And God is able to make all grace abound toward you, that you, always having all SUFFICIENCY IN ALL THINGS, may have an ABUNDANCE FOR EVERY GOOD WORK. 9As it is written: “He has dispersed abroad, HE HAS GIVEN TO THE POOR; His righteousness ENDURES FOREVER.” 10Now [g]may He who supplies seed to the sower, and bread for food, [h]supply and multiply the seed you have sown and INCREASE THE FRUITS OF YOUR RIGHTEOUSNESS, 11while you are enriched in everything for all liberality, which causes THANKSGIVING THROUGH US TO GOD. 12For the administration of this service not only supplies the NEEDS OF THE SAINTS, but also is abounding through MANY THANKSGIVINGS TO GOD, 13while, through the PROOF OF THIS MINISTRY, they glorify God for the OBEDIENCE of your CONFESSION to the GOSPEL OF CHRIST, and for YOUR LIBERAL SHARING WITH THEM and ALL MEN …” (2 Corinthians 9:6 – 13, NKJV)
Please notice the following phrases of Truths regarding this “Ministry of Giving” from Verses above:
- God’s Favourite are Givers and “sowing/reaping” eternal Kingdom things is related to “how much we willingly give to other Believers needs and all men too”
“… 6But this I say: He who SOWS SPARINGLY WILL ALSO REAP SPARINGLY, and he who sows [d]bountifully will also reap [e]bountifully. 7So let EACH ONE GIVE as he purposes in his heart, not grudgingly or of [f]necessity; FOR GOD LOVES A CHEERFUL GIVER. …”
- God Gives us “all sufficiency” not so that we enjoy prosperity/luxury but rather so that we can “Give to to the Poor” and do “abundance of Good Works” to have “righteousness that ensures forever through Him”
“… 8And God is able to make all grace abound toward you, that you, always having all SUFFICIENCY IN ALL THINGS, may have an ABUNDANCE FOR EVERY GOOD WORK. 9As it is written: “He has dispersed abroad, HE HAS GIVEN TO THE POOR; His righteousness ENDURES FOREVER.” …”
- Giving toward believers/the poor as described earlier is considered multiplying the “seed” of the Gospel and helps increase one’s “fruit of righteousness”
“… 10Now [g]may He who supplies seed to the sower, and bread for food, [h]supply and multiply the seed you have sown and INCREASE THE FRUITS OF YOUR RIGHTEOUSNESS, …”
- Giving is the Highest Worship to God and it is only for the “needs” Of the Saints/believers and “not for luxury” as the Prosperity Gospel errs
“… 11while you are enriched in everything for all liberality, which causes THANKSGIVING THROUGH US TO GOD. 12For the administration of this service not only supplies the NEEDS OF THE SAINTS, but also is abounding through MANY THANKSGIVINGS TO GOD, …”
Please notice the word “needs” in “needs of the Saints” carefully in the above. The “Many Thanksgivings to God” which “Giving” causes is the Ultimate Worship to God as Majestically describe in these Verses.
- Giving is called a Proof of “Obedience” to the Confession of the Gospel of Christ without which it may just be an empty confession and it’s a “ministry” most importantly it does “GLORIFY GOD”
“… 13while, through the PROOF OF THIS MINISTRY, they GLORIFY GOD for the OBEDIENCE of your CONFESSION to the GOSPEL OF CHRIST, …”
- A perfect Church or Christians will extend this “Liberal Giving/Sharing” of “needs” (not luxury and Vanity pursuits as pointed earlier) toward “all men” and not just the “saints/other believers” to complete their life of Worship in this
“… for YOUR LIBERAL SHARING WITH THEM and ALL MEN …”
Conclusion
Christians ought to Excel in the “Grace of Giving” where this poor Church of Macedonia went “beyond their ability” (extreme Gifting) as per Verses below:
“… 1Moreover, brethren, we make known to you the grace of God bestowed on the churches of Macedonia: 2that in a great trial of affliction the abundance of their joy and THEIR DEEP POVERTY ABOUNDED IN THE RICHES OF THEIR LIBERALITY. 3For I bear witness that ACCORDING TO THEIR ABILITY, YES, AND BEYOND THEIR ABILITY, they were freely willing, 4imploring us with much urgency [a]that we would RECEIVE THE GIFT and the fellowship of the MINISTERING TO THE SAINTS. 5And not only as we had hoped, but they first gave themselves to the Lord, and then to us by the will of God. 6So we urged Titus, that as he had begun, so he would also complete this grace in you as well. 7But as YOU ABOUND IN EVERYTHING—in FAITH, IN SPEECH, IN KNOWLEDGE, in all diligence, and in YOUR LOVE FOR US—SEE THAT YOU ABOUND IN THIS GRACE ALSO. …” (2 Corinthians 8:1 – 7, NKJV)
Please notice the following truths about this Church which is Praised by Scripture as per phrases below:
1) A Poor Church which was suffering financially and in other afflictions
“… in a great trial of affliction the abundance of their joy and THEIR DEEP POVERTY …”
2) They gave to other Believers according to their ability and beyond their ability (unmatched Worship/Faith toward God)
“… 3For I bear witness that ACCORDING TO THEIR ABILITY, YES, AND BEYOND THEIR ABILITY, they were freely willing, 4imploring us with much urgency [a]that we would RECEIVE THE GIFT and the fellowship of the MINISTERING TO THE SAINTS. …”
3) A mature Church Abounds in this “Grace of Giving” too
“… 7But as YOU ABOUND IN EVERYTHING—in FAITH, IN SPEECH, IN KNOWLEDGE, in all diligence, and in YOUR LOVE FOR US—SEE THAT YOU ABOUND IN THIS GRACE ALSO. …”
Peace to you
Unanswered Prayers and Charity Doctrine Link Mystery – Why doesn’t God Hear us when we Pray?
“… But if you had known what this means: ‘I DESIRE COMPASSION, RATHER THAN SACRIFICE,’ you would not have condemned the innocent. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 12:7, NASB)
Warning: If someone says that they have Prosperity without doing these Bible Charity Doctrine Commands, then that prosperity Comes “not” from God (as Verses cannot Contradict) but comes from the Devil as per the “Prosperity of the Wicked” Described in Verses below whose Destruction is in the afterlife/Spirit World as these are untouched on earth:
“… 3For I was envious of the boastful,
When I saw the PROSPERITY OF THE WICKED.
4For there are NO [A]PANGS IN THEIR DEATH,
But their strength is firm.
5They are NOT IN TROUBLE AS OTHER MEN,
NOR ARE THEY PLAGUED LIKE OTHER MEN.
6Therefore pride serves as their necklace;
Violence covers them like a garment.
7THEIR [B]EYES BULGE WITH ABUNDANCE;
THEY HAVE MORE THAN HEART COULD WISH. … 16When I thought how to understand this,
It was [e]too painful for me—
17Until I went into the sanctuary of God;
Then I UNDERSTOOD THEIR END.
18Surely You set them in slippery places;
YOU CAST THEM DOWN TO DESTRUCTION.
19Oh, how they are brought to desolation, as in a moment!
They are utterly CONSUMED WITH TERRORS.
20As a dream when one awakes,
So, Lord, when You awake,
You shall despise their image. …”
(Psalm 73:3 – 7, 16 – 20, NKJV)
1) Because we don’t Practice the “Charity Doctrine” toward the Poor among us
“… Whoever shuts his ears to the CRY OF THE POOR WILL ALSO CRY HIMSELF AND NOT BE HEARD. …” (Proverbs 21:13, NKJV)
Please notice the “Unanswered Prayers” part = the phrase “… WILL ALSO CRY HIMSELF AND NOT BE HEARD …”.
This Curse extends into the afterlife as the Story of the Rich Man and Lazarus Revealed by Christ shows that the Rich Man didn’t do the “Charity Doctrine” toward “Lazarus” (the local poor in his vicinity) and thus went to “Hell” (Punishment Regions of Hades) and was “Ignored”, Verses:
“… 19“There was a certain rich man who was clothed in purple and fine linen and [h]fared sumptuously every day. 20But there was a certain beggar named Lazarus, full of sores, who was laid at his gate, 21desiring to be fed with [i]the crumbs which fell from the rich man’s table. Moreover the dogs came and licked his sores. 22So it was that the beggar died, and was carried by the angels to Abraham’s bosom. The rich man also died and was buried. 23And being in torments in Hades, he lifted up his eyes and saw Abraham afar off, and Lazarus in his bosom. 24“Then he cried and said, ‘Father Abraham, have mercy on me, and send Lazarus that he may dip the tip of his finger in water and cool my tongue; for I am tormented in this flame.’ 25But Abraham said, ‘Son, remember that in your lifetime you received your good things, and likewise Lazarus evil things; but now he is comforted and you are tormented. 26And besides all this, between us and you there is a great gulf fixed, so that those who want to pass from here to you cannot, nor can those from there pass to us.’ …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 16:19 – 26, NKJV)
Yes, it’s a “Curse by God” automatically whenever someone chooses not to Help the Poor:
“… He who GIVES TO THE POOR will not lack, But he who HIDES HIS EYES WILL HAVE MANY CURSES. …” (Proverbs 28:27, NKJV)
2) Ignoring True Judgment by Rejecting the Charity Doctrine of Mercy and Compassion
“… Thus speaketh the LORD of hosts, saying, Execute TRUE JUDGMENT, and SHEW MERCY and COMPASSIONS every man to his brother: 10And OPPRRESS NOT THE WIDOW, NOR THE FATHERLESS, THE STRANGER, NOR THE POOR; and let none of you IMAGINE EVIL AGAINST his brother in your heart. 11But they REFUSED TO HEARKEN, and pulled away the shoulder, and STOPPED THEIR EARS, that THEY SHOULD NOT HEAR. 12Yes, they made their hearts like flint, refusing to hear the law and the words which the Lord of hosts had sent by His Spirit through the former prophets. Thus GREAT WRATH CAME FROM THE LORD OF HOSTS. 13Therefore it happened, that just as HE PROCLAIMED AND THEY WOULD NOT HEAR, SO THEY CALLED OUT and I WOULD NOT LISTEN,” SAYS THE LORD OF HOSTS. 14“But I scattered them with a whirlwind among all the nations which they had not known. Thus THE LAND BECAME DESOLATE after them, so that no one passed through or returned; for they made the pleasant land desolate.” ….” (Zechariah 7:9 – 14, KJV)
So In Verses above, “True Judgment” is these “Charity Doctrine” Acts = “… OPPRRESS NOT THE WIDOW, NOR THE FATHERLESS, THE STRANGER, NOR THE POOR; and let none of you IMAGINE EVIL AGAINST his brother in your heart. …”
The “Unanswered Prayers” part for refusing the “Charity Doctrine” Acts of “True Judgment” above = “… Thus GREAT WRATH CAME FROM THE LORD OF HOSTS. 13Therefore it happened, that just as HE PROCLAIMED AND THEY WOULD NOT HEAR, SO THEY CALLED OUT and I WOULD NOT LISTEN,” SAYS THE LORD OF HOSTS. …”.
It didn’t end there as “God Cursed” such people Futher as described above as follows: “… 14“But I scattered them with a whirlwind among all the nations which they had not known. Thus THE LAND BECAME DESOLATE after them, so that no one passed through or returned; for they made the pleasant land desolate.” ….”.
3) Prayer and Fasting have little to no value unless it is accompanied by “Almsgiving” or “Charity Works” or equivalent “Sharing” Verses:
The Question
“… ‘Why have WE FASTED,’ they say, ‘and YOU HAVE NOT SEEN? Why have WE AFFLICTED OUR SOULS, and YOU TAKE NO NOTICE?’ …” (Isaiah 58:3, NKJV)
Part of the Answer (God’s Reply):
“… 7Is it not to SHARE YOUR BREAD with the HUNGRY,
And that you bring to your house THE POOR who are cast out;
When you see THE NAKED, that you cover him,
And not hide yourself from YOUR OWN FLESH?
8Then YOUR LIGHT shall break forth like the MORNING,
YOUR HEALING shall spring forth speedily,
And your righteousness shall go before you;
The glory of the Lord shall be your rear guard.
9Then you shall call, and the Lord will answer;
You shall cry, and He will say, ‘Here I am.’ …” (Isaiah 58:7 – 9, NKJV)
4) Worship and Church Attendance has little to no value unless ‘Judgment’ of “Charity Works” toward the “Poor, Widow, Orphans and the Afflicted” is Done too, Verses:
“… 21“I HATE, I despise your feast days,
And I do NOT SAVOR your SACRED ASSEMBLIES.
22Though you offer Me burnt offerings and your grain offerings, I will NOT ACCEPT them, NOR will I regard your fattened peace offerings.
23TAKE AWAY from Me the NOISE of YOUR SONGS,
For I will NOT HEAR the MELODY of your STRINGED INSTRUMENTS. 24But let JUSTICE run down like water, And RIGHTEOUSNESS like a mighty stream. …” (Amos 5:21 – 24, NKJV)
Next, What “justice” and “righteousness” is God Referring to in Verses above, political parties & their rich men or hidden racist agendas? Nope. Only JUSTICE and RIGHTEOUSNESS to the POOR is Written in these Consecutive Verses prior (“Context”) – yes, on Judgment Day itself Christ is only interested with how we treat the poor (Matthew 25:31-46’s When I was hungry, thirsty, naked…)
“… 10They HATE the one who REBUKES in the gate,
And they ABHOR the one who SPEAKS UPRIGHTLY.
11Therefore, BECAUSE YOU TREAD DOWN THE POOR
And take grain taxes from him,
Though you have built houses of hewn stone,
Yet you shall not dwell in them;
You have planted pleasant vineyards,
But you shall not drink wine from them.
12For I know YOUR MANIFOLD TRANSGRESSIONS
And YOUR MIGHTY SINS:
AFFLICTING THE JUST and TAKING BRIBES;
DIVERTING THE POOR FROM JUSTICE at the gate. …” (Amos 5:10 – 12, NKJV)
5) No one knows God until one knows about caring for the “Afflicted” and “Poor”
“… 15“Do you become a king because you are competing in cedar? Did your father not eat and drink And DO JUSTICE AND RIGHTEOUSNESS? Then it was well for him. 16“HE PLED THE CAUSE OF THE AFFLICTED and THE POOR, then it was well. IS THAT NOT WHAT IT MEANS TO KNOW ME?” DECLARES THE LORD. 17“But your eyes and your heart Are intent only upon your own dishonest gain, And on shedding innocent blood, And on practicing oppression and extortion.” … And YOU WILL SEEK ME AND FIND ME when YOU SEARCH FOR ME WITH ALL YOUR HEART. …” (Jeremiah 22:15 – 17, 29:13, NASB)
6) Religion of God the Father
God Doesn’t Accept any “Religion” of “Christianity” even unless it Practices these “Charity Doctrine” Lifestyle First
“… 27PURE AND UNDEFILED RELIGION before GOD AND THE FATHER is this: to VISIT ORPHANS AND WIDOWS in THEIR TROUBLE, and to keep oneself unspotted from the world. …” (James 1:27, NKJV)
Did you notice these?
“Holiness” part of “God’s Pure Religion” = “… and to keep oneself unspotted from the world. …” = the “Virginity” part of the Parable of the 5 Wise and 5 Foolish Virgins in Matthew 25:1 – 13.
and
“Charity Doctrine Part of God’s Pure Religion” = “…27PURE AND UNDEFILED RELIGION before GOD AND THE FATHER is this: to VISIT ORPHANS AND WIDOWS in THEIR TROUBLE, …” = the “Oil & Lamp” part of the Parable of the 5 Wise and 5 Foolish Virgins in Matthew 25:1 – 13. as discussed in an earlier post below with Blessed Martin Luther too Preaching this same meaning in Essence:
https://www.facebook.com/jonathan.ramachandran/posts/10160885716652784:0
That’s why both “Holiness” part and “Charity Doctrine” part are required for “Pure Religion” before God as James 1:27 teaches and it’s a false teaching to ignore either and it’s a true teaching to have it both.
God doesn’t look at the result nor the amount of giving but your love & relative measure which makes it ‘fair to all’ (as God has no Partiality) as the widow who gave only two coins which probably couldn’t feed any still gave more than all including the Rich’s giving which had tangible effects.
“… 1And He looked up and saw the rich putting their gifts into the treasury, 2and He saw also a certain poor widow putting in two mites.[a] 3So He said, “TRULY I say to you that this POOR widow has put in MORE THAN ALL; 4for all these out of their abundance have put in offerings [b]for God, but she OUT OF HER POVERTY PUT IN ALL THE LIVELIHOOD THAT SHE HAD.” …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 21:1 – 4, NKJV)
Conclusion – Mind of Christ and Doctrine of Sanctification
God is only interested in us in as much we are tangibly interested in others as this is part of the “Mind of Christ” which is to “look out for the interest of others”, Verse:
“… 4Let each of you LOOK OUT NOT ONLY FOR HIS OWN INTERESTS, BUT ALSO FOR THE INTERESTS OF OTHERS. 5Let THIS MIND BE IN YOU WHICH WAS ALSO IN CHRIST JESUS, 6who, being in the form of God, did not consider it [b]robbery to be equal with God, 7but [c]made Himself of no reputation, taking the form of a bondservant, and coming in the likeness of men. …” (Philippians 2:4 – 7, NKJV)
No Doctrine of Sanctification is Complete without the Charity Doctrine of Almsgiving as CHRIST HIMSELF Revealed this Secret Personally below. Yes, Christ Affirmed it, here are a few translations of that Verse:
“… But WHAT YE HAVE GIVE YE AS ALMS, and, lo, ALL THINGS are CLEAN TO YOU. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Young’s Literal Translation, Luke 11:41, YLT)
“… But now as for WHAT IS INSIDE YOU–be GENEROUS TO THE POOR, and EVERYTHING WILL BE CLEAN FOR YOU. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 11:41, NIV)
“… But rather give alms of such things as ye have; and, behold, all things are clean unto you. …” (Luke 11:41, KJV)
“… But rather give alms of such things as you have; then indeed all things are clean to you. …” (Luke 11:41, NKJV)
“… But give that which is within as a charitable gift, and then all things are clean for you. …” (Luke 11:41, NASB)
This is why He Taught us to “Keep our Lamps Lit” by Doing the “Charity Works” that He Commanded:
“… 31“But SEEK HIS KINGDOM, and THESE THINGS will be ADDED TO YOU. 32“Do not be afraid, little flock, for your Father has chosen gladly to give you the kingdom. 33“SELL YOUR POSSESSIONS and GIVE TO CHARITY; make yourselves money belts which do not wear out, an unfailing treasure in heaven, where no thief comes near nor moth destroys. 34“For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. 35“Be dressed in readiness, and KEEP YOUR LAMPS LIT. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 12:31 – 35, NASB)
Let’s End with Christ’s Warning:
“… 15“Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For YOU TRAVEL LAND and SEA TO WIN ONE PROSELYTE, and when he is won, you make him TWICE as much a SON OF [h]HELL as yourselves. … 23“Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you pay tithe of mint and anise and cummin, and have neglected the WEIGHTIER MATTERS OF THE LAW (Torah):JUSTICE and MERCY and FAITH. These you ought to have done, without leaving the others undone. 24Blind guides, who strain out a gnat and swallow a camel! 25“Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you CLEANSE THE OUSTIDE of the cup and dish, but INSIDE they are full of extortion and [l]SELF-INDULGENCE. 26Blind Pharisee, first cleanse the inside of the cup and dish, that the outside of them may be clean also. …”- The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 23:13 – 15, 23 – 26, NKJV)
What does Christ mean by the “weightier matters of the Law” without fulfilling which the “outside holiness” (or ‘godliness of keeping holy’) doesn’t save?
In Matthew 23:23 above, He Declares it as “Justice, Mercy and Faith”.
Also in Matthew 23:25 – 26, Christ Teaches the “Doctrine of Sanctification” where the “inside” ought to be “clean” also and not just “outward holiness” (i.e. abstinence from sinful acts). However, Matthew doesn’t record the “how” to do it in these Verses.
The Mysterious Answer regarding both the “Justice, Mercy & Faith” (Matthew 23:23) and the Doctrine of Sanctification which “Cleans All” (both Inside & Outside) as Christ Promises above (in Matthew 23:25 – 26) is nothing else than the “Charity Doctrine” with the Focus on “Almsgiving” (Alms / Charity Works) ‘not knowing which’ Christ calls them “fools” which agrees to the Parable of the Wise and Foolish Virgins likewise as we have seen who despite being “virgins” (or outwardly holy, Matthew 25:1 – 13) miss this part as Described by Christ Himself to Explain ‘what He Means in His Own Most Blessed Words’, Verses:
“… 39Then the Lord said to him, “Now you Pharisees make the OUTSIDE OF THE CUP and DISH CLEAN, but YOUR INWARD PART is full of [k]GREED and WICKEDNESS. 40FOOLISH ones! Did not He who made the outside make the inside also? 41But rather GIVE ALMS of [l]SUCH THINGS AS YOU HAVE; then indeed ALL THINGS ARE CLEAN TO YOU. 42“But woe to you Pharisees! For you tithe mint and rue and all manner of herbs, and pass by JUSTICE and the LOVE of GOD These you ought to have done, without leaving the others undone. 43Woe to you Pharisees! For you love the [m]best seats in the synagogues and greetings in the marketplaces. 44Woe to you, [n]scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you are like graves which are not seen, and the men who walk over them are not aware of them.” …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 11:39 – 45, NKJV)
P/S: First Christianity
1) St. Basil the Great
Here’s a First Christianity Quote by the Famous Saint respected by Catholics, to Eastern Orthodox to even Protestants too agreeing to all these:
“… I know many who fast, pray, sigh, and demonstrate every manner of piety, so long as it costs them nothing, yet would not part with a penny to help those in distress. … When I go into the house of one of these tasteless newly rich individuals, and see it bedecked with every imaginable hue, I know that this person possesses nothing more valuable than what is on display; such people decorate inanimate objects, but fail to beautify the soul. … Care for the needy requires the expenditure of wealth: when all share alike, disbursing their possessions among themselves, they each receive a small portion for their individual needs. Thus, those who love their neighbor as themselves possess nothing more than their neighbor; yet surely, you seem to have great possessions! How else can this be, but that you have preferred your own enjoyment to the consolation of the many? For the more you abound in wealth, the more you lack in love. … For if we all took only what was necessary to satisfy our own needs, giving the rest to those who lack, no one would be rich, no one would be poor, and no one would be in need. … After they have squandered their wealth among so many pursuits, if there is any left over, they hide it in the ground and guard it deep within the earth. “For the future,” they say, “is always uncertain; therefore let us take care, lest some unforeseen need should arise.” Yet while it is uncertain whether you will have need of this buried gold, the losses you incur from your inhuman behavior are not at all uncertain … Had you clothed the naked, had you given your bread to the hungry, had your door been open to every stranger, had you been a parent to the orphan, had you made the suffering of every helpless person your own, what money would you have left, the loss of which to grieve? … What then will you answer the Judge? You gorgeously array your walls, but do not clothe your fellow human being; you adorn horses, but turn away from the shameful plight of your brother or sister; you allow grain to rot in your barns, but do not feed those who are starving; you hide gold in the earth, but ignore the oppressed! … You showed no mercy; it will not be shown to you. You opened not your house; you will be expelled from the Kingdom. You gave not your bread; you will not receive eternal life. …” – Blessed St. Basil the Great, was the bishop of Caesarea Mazaca in Cappadocia, Asia Minor (modern-day Turkey). He was an influential theologian who supported the Nicene Creed and opposed the heresies of the early Christian church, fighting against both Arianism and the followers of Apollinaris of Laodicea. In addition to his work as a theologian, Basil was known for his care of the poor and underprivileged. Basil established guidelines for monastic life which focus on community life, liturgical prayer, and manual labor. Together with Pachomius, he is remembered as a father of communal monasticism in Eastern Christianity, Titles: one of the Three Holy Hierarchs / Great Hierarch, Doctor of the Church (c. 329 AD – c. 379 AD)
Source:
https://www.goodreads.com/work/quotes/7393703-on-social-justice-st-basil-the-great
2) St. Clement of Rome or a Jewish Christianity Quote
Did First Christianity understand it likewise? – This First “Jewish” Christianity Quote might be True indeed:
“… 2Clem 16:1 Therefore, brethren, since we have found no small opportunity for repentance, seeing that we have time, let us turn again unto God that called us, while we have still One that receiveth us.2Clem 16:2 For if we bid farewell to these enjoyments and conquer our soul in refusing to fulfill its evil lusts, we shall be partakers of the mercy of Jesus. 2Clem 16:3 But ye know that the day of judgment cometh even now as a burning oven, and the powers of the heavens shall melt, and all the earth as lead melting on the fire, and then shall appear the secret and open works of men. 2Clem 16:4 ALMSGIVING therefore is a good thing, EVEN AS REPENTANCE FROM SIN> FASTING IS BETTER THAN PRAYER, but ALMSGIVING BETTER THAN BOTH. And LOVE COVERETH A MULTITUDE OF SINS, but prayer out of a good conscience delivereth from death. BLESSED IS EVERY MAN that is FOUND FULL OF THESE. For ALMSGIVING LIFTETH OFF THE BURDEN OF SIN. 2Clem 17:1 Let us therefore repent with our whole heart, lest any of us perish by the way. For if we have received commands, that we should make this our business, to tear men away from idols and to instruct them, how much more is it wrong that a soul which knoweth God already should perish! …” (2 Clement, Attributed to Blessed St. Clement of Rome, a direct Disciple of the Blessed Apostle St. Peter, c.35 AD – c. 99 AD)
Source: http://www.earlychristianwritings.com/text/2clement-lightfoot.html
Benny Hinn Repents of the Prosperity Gospel – Have we Repented of it?
Pastor Benny Hinn is very important to many evangelical Christians especially to those in the Charismatic Movement denomination and Churches because they believe that he speaks directly to the Holy Spirit and can do Miracles such as Casting out of Demons, Prophesying etc. Here are direct proof videos in his own words:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8qUQwmwC7Oc
or
Example Quote:
“… it’s an offense to the Holy Spirit to place a price on the gospel.” … “I’m done with it. I will never again ask you to give a thousand or whatever amount, because I think the Holy Ghost is just fed up with it. . . . . I think that hurts the gospel.” … “I think giving has become such a gimmick that it’s making me sick to my stomach.” … “I think it’s time we say it like it is: The gospel is not for sale. And the blessings of God are not for sale, and miracles are not for sale. And prosperity is not for sale.” …” – Pastor Benny Hinn
Source:
So that means there’s no more ‘faith for money’ right?
Comment: Pastor Benny Hinn’s own words prove that the “Holy Spirit” never APPROVED of his PROSPERITY GOSPEL and is ANGRY of it. So, I don’t know if those who simply Prophesied Money in God’s Name like that calling it Blessings by using the Most Blessed Name of the Holy Spirit of God can be forgiven or not (according to whether it is considered the Blasphemy of the Holy Spirit or not as per Matthew 12:31 – 32 and as Blessed Martin Luther the First Reformer Prophesied as discussed in an earlier post below regarding such “Many” who may be “Denied” including those who “Prophesied” as Christ Clearly Warned in Matthew 7:21 – 23), but it’s “Possible”. Maybe God Will Forgive if they Repent now and vice versa (Let Him Alone Decide):
https://www.facebook.com/651792783/posts/10160885716652784/?substory_index=0
Now, his repentance from the Prosperity Gospel Theology clearly proves that ‘signs & wonders’ are not proof of doctrine and this Doctrine can make Christians “unsaved” for if not he wouldn’t need to repent as in his own Words he quotes that the HOLY SPIRIT of GOD is ANGRY with such PROSPERITY GOSPEL messages, to quote:
Some doubt his repentance while other Christians say it is true as per example links below:
https://churchleaders.com/news/358465-has-benny-hinn-repented-of-the-prosperity-gospel.html
or
or
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qdap_Lo0FiI
Conclusion
The only Biblical Definition of Contentment is having “food and clothing”.
“… 7For we brought nothing into this world, [d]and it is certain we can carry nothing out. 8And HAVING FOOD AND CLOTHING, WITH THESE WE SHALL BE CONTENT. …” (1 Timothy 6:7 –
Owning anything else is a Bonus and must be used in a life of Sharing and Giving as Apostle St. Paul continues in this same chapter and same letter (same Context) toward “rich Christians” as follows:
“… 17COMMAND THOSE WHO ARE RICH in this present age not to be haughty, nor to trust in uncertain riches but in the living God, who gives us richly all things to enjoy. 18Let THEM DO GOOD, that they be RICH IN GOOD WORKS, READY TO GIVE, WILLING TO SHARE, 19storing up for themselves a good foundation for the time to come, that THEY MAY LAY HOLD ON ETERNAL LIFE. …” (1 Timothy 6:17 – 19, NKJV)
Please also notice that Apostle St. Paul’s farewell message in Verses below where he is free from the Guilt of the Blood of All men only applies because he Preached all the Counsels of God (whether or not people accept it) and Warned of those false teachers to come focusing clearly regarding the Charity Doctrine of Giving (possibly because this message will be most contradicted by false teachers leading many to perdition) as he ends his message with Christ’s Own Most Blessed Words that “… It’s more Blessed to Give than to receive …” (So, regardless the “More Blessed” ones in His Kingdom are those who Give more):
“… 25“And indeed, now I know that you all, among whom I have gone preaching the kingdom of God, will see my face no more. 26Therefore I testify to you this day that I AM INNOCENT[E] OF THE BLOOD of ALL MEN. 27For I HAVE NOT [F]SHUNNED TO DECLARE to YOU THE WHOLE COUNSEL OF GOD. 28Therefore take heed to yourselves and to all the flock, among which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers, to shepherd the church [g]of God which He purchased with His own blood. 29For I know this, that after my departure savage wolves will come in among you, not sparing the flock. 30Also from among yourselves men will rise up, speaking [h]perverse things, to draw away the disciples after themselves. 31Therefore watch, and remember that for three years I did not cease to warn everyone night and day with tears. 32“So now, brethren, I commend you to God and to the word of His grace, which is able to build you up and give you AN INHERITANCE AMONG ALL THOSE WHO are SANCTIFIED. 33I have COVETED NO ONE’S SILVER OR GOLD or APPAREL. 34[i]Yes, you yourselves know that THESE HANDS have PROVIDED FOR MY NECESSITIES, and for those who were with me. 35I have SHOWN YOU IN EVERY WAY, by laboring like this, that YOU MUST SUPPORT THE WEAK. And remember the words of the Lord Jesus, that He said, ‘It is MORE BLESSED TO GIVE THAN TO RECEIVE.’ ” …” (Acts 20:25 – 35, NKJV)
Peace to you
Safe Route Scripturally – Saving Faith vs Dead Faith – What Does LORD JESUS CHRIST SAY as the MYSTERY to ETERNAL LIFE?
Exegesis Style (Disclaimers): These are not my opinions but what was taught by the Original Protestant Movement “Founders” (such as Blessed Martin Luther etc.) to the Earliest Church Fathers (especially those with “no” Prayers to Mary/Equivalent so Protestants may consider them).
In other words, In other words, I am quoting men whom we all can agree are filled with the “Holy Spirit”.
But first, I will explain a bit first and you can compare with the quotes of these men who are filled with the Holy Spirit whether they taught so or not. So, if your pastor is preaching differently using the ‘Name of the Holy Spirit’, are they more credible than say Martin Luther or Charles Spurgeon?
So that’s why I call this way of Exegesis as ‘Safe Route Scripturally’ without Judging those who di it differently by letting ‘God Judge them on that Day’. I will quote them later so please persevere to read all before falsely accusing or misunderstanding anything as that’s what is Commanded in Verse below too:
“Does our law judge a man before it hears him and knows what he is doing?” (John 7:51, NKJV)
Please remember that you cannot quote your favourite Bible Verse or Protestant Champion of faith half-way and miss the other verses or statements made about faith and works. Let’s Begin.
Firstly, why is this Important? The ‘Foolish Virgins’ were “Unsaved” and Christ Declares the same “… I never knew you …” phrase toward them (Matthew 25:1 – 13) as He Does to those in the Great Denial Verses too likewise (Matthew 7:21 – 24), please compare as follows:
“… 1“Then the kingdom of heaven shall be likened to ten virgins who took their lamps and went out to meet the bridegroom. 2Now five of them were wise, and five were foolish. 3Those who were foolish took their lamps and took no oil with them, 4but the wise took oil in their vessels with their lamps. 5But while the bridegroom was delayed, they all slumbered and slept. 6“And at midnight a cry was heard: ‘Behold, the bridegroom [a]is coming; go out to meet him!’ 7Then all those virgins arose and trimmed their lamps. 8And the foolish said to the wise, ‘Give us some of your oil, for our lamps are going out.’ 9But the wise answered, saying, ‘No, lest there should not be enough for us and you; but go rather to those who sell, and buy for yourselves.’ 10And while they went to buy, the bridegroom came, and those who were ready went in with him to the wedding; and the door was shut. 11“Afterward the other virgins came also, saying, ‘Lord, Lord, open to us!’ 12But he answered and said, ‘Assuredly, I SAY TO YOU, I DO NOT KNOW YOU.’ 13“Watch therefore, for you know neither the day nor the hour [b]in which the Son of Man is coming. …” (Matthew 25:1 – 13, NKJV)
“… 21“Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father in heaven. 22MANY will say to Me in that day, ‘Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in Your name, cast out demons in Your name, and done many wonders in Your name?’ 23And then I will declare to them, ‘I NEVER KNEW YOU; depart from Me, YOU WHO PRACTICE LAWLESSNESS!’ 24“Therefore WHOEVER HEARS THESE SAYINGS OF MINE, and DOES THEM, I will liken him to a WISE MAN WHO BUILT HIS HOUSE ON THE ROCK: …” (Matthew 7:21 – 24, NKJV)
1) Holiness and Charity Doctrine Analogy – False Teachers Identified
False Teachers: You don’t need to be holy nor do any Charity Doctrine Works to be Saved.
Bible Truth: You need to have Holiness (“Virginity”) and Good Works (“Lamps Lit”) to Obey the Holy Spirit of God as the Parable of the 5 Wise and 5 Foolish Virgins Signify.
Please notice the Phrase “LAMPS LIT” which CHRIST uses (not the Opinions of men) when Speaking of only the CHARITY DOCTRINE ACTS in Verse below as the ‘Essential Doctrine’ to Complete the Act of ‘Seeking the Kingdom of God’ by which Church Fathers also use to Prove this Context similarly:
“… 31“But SEEK HIS KINGDOM, and THESE THINGS will be ADDED TO YOU. 32“Do not be afraid, little flock, for your Father has chosen gladly to give you the kingdom. 33“SELL YOUR POSSESSIONS and GIVE TO CHARITY; make yourselves money belts which do not wear out, an unfailing treasure in heaven, where no thief comes near nor moth destroys. 34“For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. 35“Be dressed in readiness, and KEEP YOUR LAMPS LIT. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 12:31 – 35, NASB)
A person should tremble reading Christ’s Words above if he/she speaks against the “Charity Doctrine” because that’s exactly the only Religious Act Christ Speaks of in Verses above when He Speaks of ‘Seeking the Kingdom’ (which is inclusive of “His Righteousness” or ‘Holiness’ as Luke doesn’t record here but Matthew does in Matthew 6:33).
Comments:
- i) The Phrase “Keep your Lamp lit” is found in no other Context in Scripture apart from the Charity Doctrine Quote above by Christ.
- ii) If “Virginity” which signifies “Holiness” was sufficient, then the 5 foolish Virgins also had it and must have been saved which was not the case.
iii) Please also notice that the 5 foolish Virgins also had “some oil” (for if not their lamps wouldn’t have been lit for a while, Matthew 25:8) but didn’t have ‘extra oil’ (Matthew 25:3) which must refer to the Good Works of the Charity Doctrine as per Christ’s Direct Definition in Luke 12:31 – 35 but the Fire of the Holy Spirit didn’t last long in them because they didn’t acquire “enough oil/Good Works” to keep the ‘Fire in the Saving Faith’ to continue which can perhaps also link to this lost of “First Love” and “First Works” Church discussed in link below:
https://www.facebook.com/jonathan.ramachandran/posts/10160878158747784
- iv) God Counts in ‘Relative Measure’ of ‘more is given more is required’ (Luke 12:48) and thus the “poor” need not do it if they didn’t have it as per Verses below, again by CHRIST HIMSELF:
Also, what does this Verse mean?
“… So then, NONE of you can be MY DISCIPLES who does NOT give up ALL HIS OWN POSSESSIONS. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 14:33, NASB)
Same Answer: Because Few Christians Realize that when Luke 14:33 was Spoken by Christ, He was Speaking the same Context of His ‘Charity Doctrine’ Discourses where He even mentions the ‘Special Mercy to the Poor/Maimed/Blind’ part some ‘Parabolically’ (e.g. the omitted Luke 14:26 – 30 which is the Parable explanation of this same truth, but parabolically regarding Counting the Cost to live out His Commands including this ‘Charity Doctrine Lifestyle’) as per Consecutive Verses below:
“… (12Then He also said to him who invited Him,) “When you give a dinner or a supper, do not ask your friends, your brothers, your relatives, NOR RICH NEIGHBORS, lest they also invite you back, and you be repaid. 13But when you give a feast, INVITE the POOR, THE MAIMED, THE LAME, THE BLIND. 14And you will be BLESSED, because they cannot repay you; for you shall be REPAID at the [First]* RESURRECTION OF THE JUST.” … 21So that servant came and reported these things to his master. Then the master of the house, being angry, said to his servant, ‘Go out quickly into the STREETS and LANES of the city, and bring in here the POOR and the MAIMED and the LAME and the BLIND.’ 22And the servant said, ‘Master, it is done as you commanded, and still THERE IS ROOM.’ 23Then the master said to the servant, ‘Go out into the HIGHWAYS and HEDGES, and COMPEL THEM to COME IN, that MY HOUSE MAY BE FILLED. 24For I say to you that NONE of those men who were INVITED shall taste MY SUPPER.’ ” … … So LIKEWISE, whoever of you does not forsake all that he has CANNOT BE MY DISCIPLE. …” (Luke 14:12 – 14, 21 – 24, 33, NKJV)
2) Further Comments on Matthew 25:1 – 13’s Parable of the Wise and Foolish Virgins
- The “Foolish” Virgins to whom He Says “… I never knew you …” (Matthew 25:12, Matthew 7:23) did “Miracles, Casting out of Demons and Prophesying” in “His Name” but that didn’t Count as the ‘Seal of the Holy Spirit’ nor as a ‘Work of Saving Faith’ as they ended up being “Unsaved”.
- Please also take note of that this Rejection is ONLY towards a Particular CHRISTIANITY which CONVERTED MANY (Matthew 7:22) and did these acts “… ‘Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in Your name, cast out demons in Your name, and done many wonders in Your name?’ 23And then I will declare to them, ‘I NEVER KNEW YOU …”.
iii. Such a Christianity must exist around us, right? So if we didn’t focus nor practice these gifts, it cannot be referring to us, right? There’s a popular myth where some think that all Christians need to practice some of those gifts to be saved but the Bible Verse below clearly Proves that you can be Saved without having any of those gifts (of healing, nor of Speaking in Tongues nor of Casting out of Demons) according to the Verse below directly (not the opinions of men):
“… 27Now you are the body of Christ, and members individually. 28And God has appointed these in the church: first apostles, second prophets, third teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of healings, helps, administrations, varieties of tongues. 29Are all apostles? Are all prophets? Are all teachers? Are ALL WORKERS OF MIRACLES? 30DO ALL HAVE GIFTS OF HEALINGS? DO ALL SPEAK WITH TONGUES? Do all interpret? 31But earnestly desire the [i]best gifts. And YET I SHOW YOU A MORE EXCELLENT WAY. …” (1 Corinthians 12:27 – 30, NKJV)
The Bible Verses above clearly imply these three things:
- i) “not” all the faithful will do these Miracles , Healings nor Speak in tongues.
- ii) There is a more “excellent way” which has nothing to do with these gifts (a Great Bible Secret) – What is it? (The next Verses which begin the next Chapter clearly Reveals Apostle St. Paul Talking about “Agape/God’s Love” as the Greatest Gift)
“… But earnestly desire the best gifts. And yet I show you A MORE EXCELLENT WAY [of Agape, Love of God]. 1Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I have become sounding brass or a clanging cymbal. 2And though I have the gift of prophecy, and understand all mysteries and all knowledge, and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, but have not love, I am nothing. 3And though I bestow all my goods to feed the poor, and though I give my body [a]to be burned, but have not love, it profits me nothing. … And now abide faith, hope, love, these three; but the GREATEST OF THESE IS LOVE. … ” – The Wise and Gifted Blessed St. Paul the Apostle (1 Corinthians 12:31, 1 Corinthians 13:1 – 3, 13, NKJV)
iii) Now all believers are required to have the “Love” of God or “Agape” (which is NOT an option) to be saved as per Verses above where Verses below clearly Speak of “Agape” in Action is Defined as the “Charity Doctrine” toward others (and so it matches that this is the “Oil” required to “Keep our Lamps Lit”):
“… 16BY THIS WE KNOW LOVE, because He laid down His life for us. And we also ought to LAY DOWN OUR LIVES for the brethren. 17But whoever HAS THIS WORLD’S GOODS, and sees his brother in need, and SHUTS UP HIS HEART FROM HIM, HOW does the LOVE OF GOD ABIDE IN HIM? 18My little children, let us NOT LOVE IN WORD or IN TONGUE, but IN DEED AND IN TRUTH. …” – Blessed St. John the only non-martyr Apostle of Christ (1 John 3:16 – 18, NKJV)
3) Protestant Reformers – The Original Protestant Reformation Movement with “no” Speaking in Tongues. So it’s not a must nor is it a necessary evidence of the Holy Spirit for any ‘New Revelation’ as per Verse below too:
“… DO ALL SPEAK WITH TONGUES? Do all interpret? 31But earnestly desire the [i]best gifts. And YET I SHOW YOU A MORE EXCELLENT WAY. …” (1 Corinthians 12:29, NKJV)
For example all these Protestant Greats did “not” Speak in Tongues (Quotes from Conservative Protestant Pages – and so, no point in quoting this as this gift as it doesn’t prove which doctrine is right):
- i) Blessed Martin Luther
“… Lutheran scholar Heinrich Boehmer once made the statement, “There are as many Luthers as there are books about Luther.” Indeed, the theological landscape is overgrown with Luthers. There is actually a Pentecostal Luther who ‘spoke in tongues’ floating around cyber-space. This quote has been used in many charismatic web pages: … “According to the German church historian Theodor Sauer, Luther spoke in tongues: “Luther was easily the greatest evangelical man after the apostles, full of inner love to the Lord like John, hasty in deed like Peter, deep in thinking like Paul, cunning and powerful in speech like Elijah, uncompromising against God’s enemies like David; PROPHET and evangelist, speaker-in-tongues and interpreter in one person, equipped with all the gifts of grace, a light and pillar of the church…” (Ibid, 1889 ed., vol. 4, p. 73 19 Translated from the German work, Geschichte der Chrislichen Kirche fur Schule und Haus (Dresden; R. Kuntzes, 1859), 3rd book, p. 400); http://www.azstarnet.com/~jsbarta/ch_hist.html 1/1/99 Whether this refers to the actual gift of tongues (I Cor 12) or the romance languages (i.e. Latin, French, etc.) is not certain. That Luther believed in miracles is certain. … The actual evidence though from Luther’s writings suggests that Luther did not speak in tongues: … “The Holy Spirit is sent forth in two ways. In the primitive church He was sent forth in a manifest and visible form. Thus He descended upon Christ at the Jordan in the form of a dove (Matt. 3:16Open in Logos Bible Software (if available)), and upon the apostles and other believers in the form of fire (Acts 2:3Open in Logos Bible Software (if available)). This was the first sending forth of the Holy Spirit; it was necessary in the primitive church, which had to be established with visible signs on account of the unbelievers, as Paul testifies. 1 Cor. 14:22Open in Logos Bible Software (if available): “Tongues are a sign, not for believers but for unbelievers.” But later on, when the church had been gathered and confirmed by these signs, it was not necessary for this visible sending forth of the Holy Spirit to continue.” Source:LW 26:374 Luther held “speaking in tongues” means simply the public reading of Scripture: … “And note that this is the proper and fruitful way to deal with Scripture, as Paul (1 Cor. 14:6Open in Logos Bible Software (if available)) also exalts four such points that he would treat in Scripture: “Now, brethren, if I come to you speaking in tongues, how shall I benefit you unless I bring you some revelation or knowledge or prophecy or teaching?” He refers to “speaking in tongues,” which is nothing else than reading Scripture orally.” Source: LW 14:36 …”
Source:
https://beggarsallreformation.blogspot.com/2006/04/pentecostal-luther-who-spoke-in.html
- ii) Blessed Charles Spurgeon (Prince of Preachers)
Charles Spurgeon is a little harsh in his words toward those who speak in tongues but we need “not” judge either way (just using this to prove that true Men of God didn’t endorse it at all too throughout the Protestant Reformation), example in link below:
“… “I have heard many fanatical persons say the Holy Spirit revealed this and that to them. Now that is very generally revealed nonsense. The Holy Ghost does not reveal anything fresh now. He brings old things to our remembrance. “He shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance whatsoever I have told you.” The canon of revelation is closed; there is no more to be added. God does not give a fresh revelation, but he rivets the old one. When it has been forgotten, and laid in the dusty chamber of our memory, he fetches it out and cleans the picture, but does not paint a new one. There are no new doctrines, but the old ones are often revived. It is not, I say, by any new revelation that the Spirit comforts. He does so by telling us old things over again; he brings a fresh lamp to manifest the treasures hidden in Scripture; he unlocks the strong chests in which the truth had long lain, and he points to secret chambers filled with untold riches; but he coins no more, for enough is done. Believer! there is enough in the Bible for thee to live upon for ever.” …” – Blessed Charles Spurgeon (Prince of Preachers)
Source (official Spurgeon Pages):
or
https://www.spurgeon.org/resource-library/sermons/the-comforter/
We can be neutral and not support either Christianity in this Context if we are not sure as discussed in detail in post below to be ‘safe’ and ‘not accidentally speak any Blasphemy to the Holy Spirit’ either way:
https://www.facebook.com/jonathan.ramachandran/posts/10160853112937784
Broader Hope?
I still believe that God can Save any Christian who errs on some aspects but you risk “losing your greater reward” if you did it as per Bible Verses which point to it.
For example, a Christian with the “Worship of Angels” practice (which is worse than ‘Praying to Angels’) may be saved but loses his reward based on this Verse:
“… Let NO ONE CHEAT YOU of YOUR REWARD, taking delight in false humility and WORSHIP OF ANGELS, intruding into those things which he has not seen, vainly puffed up by his fleshly mind, …” (Colossians 2:18, NKJV)
Please don’t misquote me as I am strongly against such practices but if the Bible Verses says a “loss of reward”, I don’t want to say beyond that either. So, that’s why I say in such cases where the meanings are difficult to ascertain either way as “Possibilities” because I am not sure. As long as you don’t do it, you are risk-free and safe.
In comparison, to err on “First Love” and “First Works” seems to be complete Doom as discussed with Bible Verses took in link below:
https://www.facebook.com/651792783/posts/10160878158747784/
4) Born Again and the Mandatory First Love Command to Love God and Love Others including Enemies
Born Again is not referring to some Speaking in Tongues experience as we see earlier but an ability to “Love others” beyond normal human limits including “enemies” too and to “obey His Direct Commands” (which includes the ‘His Charity Doctrine Commands’) too as per Definition in Verses below:
Lack of “Love” which signifies that such persons “are not Born Again”, Verses:
“…7Beloved, let us love one another, for love is of God; and EVERONE WHO LOVES is BORN OF GOD and KNOWS GOD. 8He who does not love does not know God, for GOD IS LOVE …” (1 John 4:7 – 8, NKJV)
“… 5JESUS answered, “Most assuredly, I say to you, unless one is BORN OF WATER AND THE SPIRIT, he cannot enter the kingdom of God. 6That which is born of the flesh is flesh, and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit. 7Do not marvel that I said to you, ‘YOU MUST BE BORN AGAIN.’ 8The wind blows where it wishes, and you hear the sound of it, but cannot tell where it comes from and where it goes. So is EVERYONE WHO IS BORN OF THE SPIRIT.” …” (John 3:5 – 8, NKJV)
“… Whoever BELIEVES that Jesus is the Christ is BORN OF GOD, and everyone who loves Him who begot also loves him who is begotten of Him. 2By this we know that we love the children of God, when WE LOVE GOD and KEEP HIS COMMANDMENTS. 3For this is the love of God, that we keep His commandments. And His commandments are not burdensome. 4For whatever is born of God overcomes the world. And this is the victory that has overcome the world—[a]our faith. 5Who is he who overcomes the world, but he who believes that Jesus is the Son of God? …” (1 John 5:1 – 5, NKJV)
So, Faith without His Commandments fails especially when it misses His Greatest Commands which is to Love God and Others:
“… 29JESUS answered him, “The [k]first of all the commandments is: ‘Hear, O Israel, the Lord our God, the Lord is one. 30And you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your mind, and with all your strength.’ [l]This is the first commandment. 31And the second, like it, is this: ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is NO OTHER COMMANDMENT GREATER THAN THESE.” …” (Mark 12:29 – 31, NKJV)
We cannot Love God without Loving others and how much we Love God is Proven not by singing songs to him/prayers etc. but by how much we Love others & obey His New Testament Commands as these Example Verses prove (so that’s how to keep the ‘LAMPS LIT’ in the Context of ‘THINGS THAT COME WITH SALVATION’):
“…. 9Dear friends, even though we are talking this way, we really don’t believe it applies to you. We are confident that you are meant for better things, THINGS THAT COME WITH SALVATION. 10For God is not unjust. He will not forget how hard you have worked for him and how you have SHOWN YOUR LOVE TO HIM BY CARING FOR OTHER BELIEVERS, b as you still do. 11Our great desire is that you will keep on LOVING OTHERS as long as life lasts, in order to make certain that what you hope for will come true. 12Then you will not become spiritually dull and indifferent. Instead, you will follow the example of those who are going to inherit God’s promises because of their faith and endurance. …” (Hebrews 6:9 – 12, NLT)
Focus quote from above which proves that how much we Love God is Proven by how much we first ‘Love other Believers’ in Action with the ‘Charity Doctrine’ Deeds —> “… how you have SHOWN YOUR LOVE TO HIM BY CARING FOR OTHER BELIEVERS, b as you still do … “. True Christian Love doesn’t End there toward ‘believers only’ but extends toward ‘All Men’ to whom they come in contact with including ‘Enemies’, Verses:
“… Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all, especially to those who are of the household of faith. …” (Galatians 6:19, NKJV)
“… And if you do good to those who do good to you, what credit is that to you? For even sinners do the same. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 6:33, NKJV)
“… 38“You have heard that it was said, ‘An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth.’ [Deuteronomy 19:21 ] 39BUT I TELL YOU NOT to RESIST an EVIL PERSON. But whoever slaps you on your right cheek, turn the other to him also. 40If anyone wants to sue you and take away your tunic, let him have your cloak also. 41And whoever compels you to go one mile, go with him two. 42Give to him who asks you, and from him who wants to borrow from you do not turn away. 43“You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall love your neighbor and HATE YOUR ENEMY.’ 44[o]BUT I SAY TO YOU, LOVE YOUR ENEMIES, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you, 45that you may be SONS OF YOUR FATHER in heaven; for He makes His sun rise on the evil and on the good, and sends rain on the just and on the unjust. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 5:38 – 45, NKJV)
Please notice carefully that in Verse above Christ Describes the “… SONS OF YOUR FATHER in heaven …” refers only to those who have Practiced “… 38“You have heard that it was said, ‘An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth.’ [Deuteronomy 19:21 above] 39BUT I TELL YOU NOT to RESIST an EVIL PERSON. …” and “… 43“You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall love your neighbor and HATE YOUR ENEMY.’ 44[o]BUT I SAY TO YOU, LOVE YOUR ENEMIES, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you …” which certainly disqualifies a ‘Executing Judgment of Earth type of Christianity’, right?
“… IF YOU LOVE ME, KEEP [Obey] MY COMMANDMENTS. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (John 14:15, NKJV)
So, do we REALLY LOVE CHRIST by OBEYING HIS COMMANDS or ‘make up imaginary commands’ which HE NEVER SAID DIRECTLY?
5) Good Works and Faith Link – Saving Faith is a Faith with Primarily the Works of Mercy
God Reveals the Truth that both our Faith and Good Works are His Gift toward us though it feels like we are doing it. So, that’s why Blessed Apostle St. Paul writes that ‘we are saved by faith and not by works’, Verse:
“… 28Therefore we conclude that a man is [i]justified by faith apart from the deeds of the law. …” (Romans 3:28, NKJV)
Does it contradict Blessed Apostle James’ Verse below?
“… 22Do you see that faith was working together with his works, and by works faith was made [i]perfect? 23And the Scripture was fulfilled which says, “Abraham believed God, and it was [j]accounted to him for righteousness.” And he was called the friend of God. 24You see then that A MAN IS JUSTIDIED BY WORKS, and NOT BY FAITH ONLY. 25Likewise, was not Rahab the harlot also JUSTIFIED BY WORKS when she received the messengers and sent them out another way? 26For as the body without the spirit is dead, so FAITH WITHOUT WORKS IS DEAD also. …” (James 2:22 – 26, NKJV)
That same Apostle St. Paul also wrote that only these “rich” Christians who Practice the “Charity Doctrine” attain to “Eternal Life” in Verse below proving this Context in his own words:
“… 17COMMAND THOSE WHO ARE RICH in this present age not to be haughty, nor to trust in uncertain riches but in the living God, who gives us richly all things to enjoy. 18Let THEM DO GOOD, that they be RICH IN GOOD WORKS, READY TO GIVE, WILLING TO SHARE, 19storing up for themselves a good foundation for the time to come, that THEY MAY LAY HOLD ON ETERNAL LIFE. …” (1 Timothy 6:17 – 19, NKJV)
Regarding the Old Testament Faithful such as Blessed Abraham and Blessed Job fulfilling the Charity Doctrine Lifestyle described in 1 Timothy 6:17 – 19 above whilst being rich in relative measure is described in links below:
- Kings of Hospitality from the Old Testament – Blessed Abraham, Blessed Job and beyond
https://www.facebook.com/jonathan.ramachandran/posts/10160884268282784
- False Prophets Identification – Safe Route Scripturally – Works of Mercy Mystery
https://www.facebook.com/jonathan.ramachandran/posts/10160883878252784
iii. Sons of Abraham Mystery – Are we Sons of Abraham?
https://www.facebook.com/jonathan.ramachandran/posts/10159563705212784
- Blessed Patriarch Abraham – the First Man who Entertained Christ Himself and the Angels unawares
https://www.facebook.com/jonathan.ramachandran/posts/10159582005092784
The only Rich Christians who are Saved will demonstrate the “Saving Faith with Charity Doctrine Works” Evidence as described in Verses above.
So Good Works is the Evidence of Salvation and not the cause of it which is what Blessed Martin Luther Taught but unfortunately is not properly understood by some Protestants who don’t quote him in full either (the same way they don’t quote these Bible Verses in full), to quote:
“… Scottish theologian John Murray of Westminster Theological Seminary in Philadelphia, asserted, “Faith alone justifies but a justified person with faith alone would be a monstrosity which never exists in the kingdom of grace. Faith works itself out through love (Gal. 5:6). And Faith without works is dead (James 2:17–20).” …” … In Article XX of Good Works, the Augsburg Confession states that: [I]t is taught on our part that it is necessary to do good works, not that we should trust to merit grace by them, but because it is the will of God. It is only by faith that forgiveness of sins is apprehended[57] … Martin Luther, who opposed antinomianism, is recorded as stating, “Works are necessary for salvation but they do not cause salvation; for faith alone gives life.”[58] In his Introduction to Romans, Luther stated that saving faith is,
a living, creative, active and powerful thing, this faith. Faith cannot help doing good works constantly. It doesn’t stop to ask if good works ought to be done, but before anyone asks, it already has done them and continues to do them without ceasing. Anyone who does not do good works in this manner is an unbeliever…Thus, it is just as impossible to separate faith and works as it is to separate heat and light from fire![59] … Contemporary evangelical theologian R. C. Sproul writes, The relationship of faith and good works is one that may be distinguished but never separated … if good works do not follow from our profession of faith, it is a clear indication that we do not possess justifying faith. The Reformed formula is, “We are justified by faith alone but not by a faith that is alone.” …”
Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sola_fide
This is the “Will of God” which all who are “Predestined” to be “Saved by Faith” will do such “Good Works” in their lives accordingly fulfilling their “Purpose” of being “Created by God”, Verses:
“… 8For by GRACE you have been SAVED THROUGH FAITH, and that NOT OF YOURSELVES; it is the GIFT OF GOD, 9NOT OF WORKS, lest anyone should boast. 10For we are His workmanship, CREATED IN CHRIST JESUS for GOOD WORKS, which GOD PREPARED BEFOREHAND that WE SHOULD WALK IN THEM. …” (Ephesians 2:8 – 10, NKJV)
6) What is the Bible Definition of the “Works of Saving Faith”? (a phrase used by Blessed Martin Luther too in the above)
“… 1Come now, YOU RICH, weep and howl for your miseries that are coming upon you! 2Your riches are corrupted, and your garments are moth-eaten. 3Your GOLD and SILVER are corroded, and their corrosion will be a witness against you and will EAT YOUR FLESH LIKE FIRE. You have HEAPED up TREASURE in the LAST DAYS. … 5You have lived on the earth in PLEASURE and LUXURY; you have fattened your hearts as in a DAY of SLAUGHTER. …” – Blessed St. James the Just, First Bishop of Jerusalem (James 5:1 – 3, 5, NKJV)
Yes, he particularly points that a “Faith” without the “Works of Mercy” is “Dead”:
“… 8If you really FULFILL THE ROYAL LAW according to the SCRIPTURE, “You shall LOVE YOUR NEIGHBOR AS YOURSELF,” YOU DO WELL … 13For JUDGMENT IS WITHOUT MERCY to the one who has SHOWN NO MERCY. MERCY TRIUMPHS OVER JUDGMENT. 14What does it profit, my brethren, if someone says he HAS FAITH BUT DOES NOT HAVE WORKS? CAN FAITH SAVE HIM? 15If a brother or sister is naked and destitute of daily food, 16and 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? 17Thus also FAITH BY ITSELF, IF IT DOES NOT HAVE WORKS, IS DEAD. …” (James 2:8, 13 – 17, NKJV)
I repeat, he particularly points that a “Faith” without the “Works of Mercy” is “Dead” (please read this part ‘carefully’ and slowly again).
When Apostle St. James wrote this Bible Verse, he doesn’t speak about religious works of church gathering or praying or singing etc. (Which can be helpful) but clearly points to the ABSENCE of WORKS OF MERCY only for a FAITH to be DEAD as he writes, “… but you do not give them the things which are needed for the body, what does it profit? 17Thus also FAITH BY ITSELF, IF IT DOES NOT HAVE WORKS, IS DEAD. …”.
So, are we Preaching the Correct Doctrine regarding the ‘absence of which Work’ (namely the absence of the “Works of Mercy”) according to these Bible Verses, when we say ‘Faith without Works is Dead’?
It is toward such a faith which is missing the “Works of Mercy” that he writes “… if someone says he HAS FAITH BUT DOES NOT HAVE WORKS? CAN FAITH SAVE HIM? …”. Can you please really see it as it is Written?
A famous quote rings that there are two types of blindness namely:
- Not seeing what is Written
For example: not seeing that the “Works of Faith” that “James” meant here is Referring to the Context of “Works of Mercy” only as he quotes no other works at all in these Verses.
- Seeing something that is not Written
For example: Some Preachers will say that the “Works of Faith” is “paying tithes, Church attendance, singing, praying etc.” but the Bible Verses here mention “none” of it. I am not saying these cannot be works of faith but it’s “not” the “Works of Faith” mentioned in these Verses by which a Faith can Shipwreck. If other Verses may say that, you may quote it but it’s not from these set of Verses. Please don’t misquote me ya.
One thing is for sure: you will never go wrong Preaching Verses as it is Written ‘to the Topic which it was Written about’. A lot of preaching sometimes links Verses to ‘the Topics which it was NOT Written about’ and in such cases, they could be right or wrong (let God Decide) but I would at most state it as a possibility only.
In contrast, the ‘Safe Route Scripturally’ is to Preach the Verses to the Original Topic it was addressed to. This means that the “Works of Saving Faith” definitely includes the “Works of Mercy” toward our fellowmen (that is the ‘Charity Doctrine’) as the Definition Verses in James 2:13 – 17 above clearly definite this as “first”.
“… For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision nor uncircumcision avails anything, but FAITH WORKING THROUGH LOVE. … For ALL THE LAW IS FULFILLED in one word, even in this: “YOU SHALL LOVE YOUR NEIGHBOR AS YOURSELF.” …” (Galatians 5:6, 14, NKJV)
The phrase “… FAITH WORKING THROUGH LOVE …” = ‘Faith with Charity Doctrine’ because ‘Charity Doctrine is Love in Action’, Verses:
“… 16By this WE KNOW LOVE, because He laid down His life for us. And we also OUGHT TO LAY DOWN OUR LIVES FOR THE BRETHREN. 17But WHOEVER HAS THIS WORLD’S GOODS, and SEES HIS BROTHER IN NEED, AND SHUTS UP HIS HEART FROM HIM, HOW DOES THE LOVE OF GOD ABIDE IN HIM? 18My little children, let us NOT LOVE IN WORD or IN TONGUE, BUT IN DEED AND IN TRUTH …” (1 John 3:16 – 18, NKJV)
Christ Called the Pharisees of Old as “FOOLS” for not knowing this ‘Almsgiving Doctrine’ which can only be discerned Spiritually before these Verses were Written, to quote:
“… 39And the Lord said unto him, Now do ye Pharisees make clean the outside of the cup and the platter; but your inward part is full of ravening and wickedness. 40Ye fools, did not he that made that which is without make that which is within also? 41But rather give alms of such things as ye have; and, behold, all things are clean unto you. …” (Luke 111:39 – 41, KJV)
In another translation (focusing on the Almsgiving Part He Commanded for the Doctrine of Sanctification of ‘All’ both Inside and Outside Holiness to be Complete):
“… But WHAT YE HAVE GIVE YE AS ALMS, and, lo, ALL THINGS are CLEAN TO YOU. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Young’s Literal Translation, Luke 11:41, YLT)
“… But now as for WHAT IS INSIDE YOU–be GENEROUS TO THE POOR, and EVERYTHING WILL BE CLEAN FOR YOU. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 11:41, NIV)
7) Blessed Martin Luther and Church Fathers Affirm that the 5 Wise Virgins are those with Charity Doctrine and Vice Versa – and so we can Preach likewise and be Saved too as the ‘Safe Route Scripturally’ unless a Protestant dare say that Martin Luther is “unsaved” for Preaching this differently from them
To quote:
In other Words, if “All Law Torah” is fulfilled by this “Charity Doctrine” of “Love your neighbor after Loving God”, there is “nothing missing” that because “all Law (Torah)” is Fulfilled as per Galatians 5:14. Can you see it? I quote Martin Luther himself attesting this same Biblical truth:
“… But the most assuring words come from Martin Luther himself, who preached on this passage in Matthew in Erfurt at St. Michaeliskirche in October 1522. … “Therefore, let each one see to it that he has these two together: the oil, which is true faith and trust in Christ; and the lamps, the vessel, which is the outward service toward your neighbor. “The whole Christian life,” Luther preaches, “consists in these two things: Believe God. Help your neighbor. The whole Gospel teaches this.” – Blessed Martin Luther, the First Champion of the Protestant Faith (Erfurt at St. Michaeliskirche in October 1522, Explaining the Parable of the Wise and Foolish Virgins, Matthew 25:1 – 13) … Thus Dr. Luther helps us interpret the mysterious metaphor of the oil. The oil in the lamps of the wise bridesmaids is the faith that is a gift from God to each of us, and it will never disappear. …”
Source:
https://www.mnys.org/from-a-lay-leaders-desk/when-jesus-says-he-doesnt-know-us/
Yes, the Foolish Virgins are those with “no” Good Works though they appear Godly but have these major sins: “… wrathful as before, just as covetous (i.e. loving ‘Prosperity/Money’), just as unmerciful toward the poor (i.e. “no” Charity Doctrine), just as discourteous, …” in Martin Luther’s words:
“… The Lord is speaking now about Christendom and compares it to ten virgins. Five are wise, five foolish. Here He calls all Christians “virgins.” The foolish virgins are those Christians who give the appearance and impression of being godly. They want to be good evangelicals and are able to say much about these things. They praise the Word and say: “Yes, it is a splendid thing. This is what it means. It cannot possibly be otherwise according to the Scripture, etc.” Paul speaks of these people in 1 Cor. 4:20: “The kingdom of God is not in speech, but in power.” It consists not in speech, but in life; not in words, but in works. Although they are able to say much about many things, they are in reality unwise virgins who only have the lamps or the vessel, that is, the external equipment, and they behave according to their nature, as Matthew writes (7:22), saying: “Lord, Lord!” The mouth is there, but the heart is far away (Matt. 15:8). The oil is not in the lamp, that is, faith is not in the heart. They give it no thought. Indeed, they know it not and imagine that their lamps are ready. Their nature is that they gladly hear the preaching about faith, and if they have heard the Word, they invent and fabricate for themselves a thought, a delusion in the heart which they consider to be OIL, and yet they remain the same as before in their behavior. Following their old ways, they are just as WRATHFUL as before, just as COVETOUS, just as UNMERCIFUL TOWARD THE POOR, just as DISCOURTEOUS, etc. This faith is a manmade thing. …” – The First Champion of the Protestant Faith, Blessed Martin Luther’s Sermon which was translated in 2013 by the Rev. Paul A. Rydecki, On Faith and Good Works, Preached in Erfurt at St. Michaeliskirche on the Day of the 11,000 Virgins (October 21st), 1522
Source: http://www.godwithuslc.org/luther-sermon-for-trinity-27/
Comment: Please note carefully that those who don’t have the “oil” have a man-made faith which “loves money/prosperity” (i.e. Covetous) and are “unmerciful toward the poor” (i.e. they lack the “Charity Doctrine”) according to Martin Luther himself in his own words above.
Martin Luther Prophesies Christ’s ‘Great Denial’ (Matthew 7:18 – 23) to include those with ‘Faith but NO outward Good Works as mentioned or with NO inner oil’
“… The other virgins (the wise ones) carry in their hands not only the lamps, but oil with the lamp, that is, the true faith that God has created and made in their hearts. These virgins have something with which to defend themselves, for they have God’s work with them and not an imaginary, invented delusion that is unable to protect them when death looms before their eyes. They are fixed on the divine promise, and the Spirit of God works great things through them, even to the point that they would rather die than live. Now pay attention: this parable speaks of the time right before the Last Judgment of God, and thus it applies to all Christians. For many of them—the majority—will turn, some to the imaginary faith, and the others to the true faith. This leads us to conclude that the Last Day is not far off, now that the Word of God has thus made a beginning and is bringing about disparate results. But be that as it may, I will not speculate about how far or how near it may be. To expand further on the GOSPEL, notice that the LAMPS are INTENDED to DEPICT for us an OUTWARD THING and a BODILY PRACTICE. But the LAMPS TOGETHER WITH THE OIL are the INNER TREASURES with the TRUE FAITH. For this is the nature of faith: God creates and awakens it in the heart so that a person trusts in Christ. Indeed, it is so powerfully founded upon Christ that it defies sin, death, hell, the devil, and all the adversaries of God. …” – The First Champion of the Protestant Faith, Blessed Martin Luther’s Sermon which was translated in 2013 by the Rev. Paul A. Rydecki, On Faith and Good Works, Preached in Erfurt at St. Michaeliskirche on the Day of the 11,000 Virgins (October 21st), 1522
Source: http://www.godwithuslc.org/luther-sermon-for-trinity-27/
8) What Did Lord Jesus Christ Say?
(This is most Important as if we have Christ’s Direct Words on this Topic, no matter what other people interpret or misinterpret it won’t affect the Truth of “His Direct Words” as “it is Written”).
This is how Christ Answered the Requirement to the Question “How to get Eternal Life?”
- i) Christ Starts with Requesting the “Holiness” Commands of the Law/Torah but ends with Asking for the Perfection of “Believing with Him/Following Him with the Charity Doctrine Act of Giving to the Poor tangibly”, Verses:
“… 16Now behold, one came and said to Him, “Good Teacher, WHAT GOOD THING SHALL I DO that I MAY HAVE ETERNAL LIFE?” 17So He said to him, “Why do you call Me good? No one is good but One, that is, God. But IF YOU WANT TO ENTER INTO LIFE, KEEP THE COMMANDMENTS.” 18He said to Him, “Which ones?” Jesus said, “‘You shall not murder,’ ‘You shall not commit adultery,’ ‘You shall not steal,’ ‘You shall not bear false witness,’ 19‘Honor your father and your mother,’ and, ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ ” 20The young man said to Him, “All these things I have kept from my youth. WHAT DO I STILL LACK?” …” (Matthew 19:16 – 20, NKJV)
His Conversation doesn’t end there and so our sermon shouldn’t end there as well. He Continues Beautifully next as follows: Yes, these Bible Verses above may explain why Christ Said it is hard for a faithful, law(Torah) keeping Rich Man to enter Heaven, Verses:
“… 20The young man said to Him, “All these things I have kept [g]from my youth. What do I STILL LACK?” 21JESUS said to him, “IF you want to be PERFECT, go, SELL what YOU HAVE and GIVE to the POOR, and YOU WILL HAVE TREASURE IN HEAVEN; and come, FOLLOW ME.” 22But when the young man heard that saying, he went away SORROWFUL, for he had GREAT POSSESSIONS.23Then JESUS said to His disciples, “Assuredly, I say to you that it is HARD for a RICH MAN TO ENTER THE KINGDOM OF HEAVEN. 24And AGAIN I say to you, it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God. …” (Matthew 19:20 – 24, NKJV)
Please notice that the rich man above could keep “Holiness Commands & Ten Commandments without Christ” as Christ Doesn’t Say that he lacked in that part. However he “lacked” only this toward “Perfection” which is to “follow Christ” and “Give to the Poor”. Can you see it? This means to “Give to the Poor and Follow Christ” cannot be Done without the EMPOWERING OF GOD toward the CHOSEN.
- ii) Christ Affirms that the “Charity Doctrine” Acts of “Mercy” with Earthly Good Sharing to take Care of Others including an “enemy” (Samaritan-Jews context) even if Practiced by a “Samaritan” (spiritually a person with an imperfect theological knowledge on God based on Christ’s Own definition in John 4:21 – 22) is “Essential/Sufficient Saving Works of Faith” in Verses below:
“… 25And behold, a certain lawyer stood up and tested Him, saying, “Teacher, what shall I DO TO INHERIT ETERNAL LIFE?” 26He said to him, “What is WRITTEN IN THE LAW? What is YOUR READING OF IT?” 27So he answered and said, “ ‘You shall LOVE THE LORD YOUR GOD with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your strength, and with all your mind,’ and ‘YOUR NEIGHBOR AS YOURSELF.’ ” 28And He said to him, “You have answered rightly; DO THIS AND YOU WILL LIVE.” 29But he, wanting to justify himself, said to Jesus, “And WHO IS MY NEIGHBOR?” 30Then JESUS ANSWERED and said: “A certain man went down from Jerusalem to Jericho, and fell among thieves, who stripped him of his clothing, wounded him, and departed, leaving him half dead. 31Now by chance a certain priest came down that road. And when he saw him, he passed by on the other side. 32Likewise a Levite, when he arrived at the place, came and looked, and passed by on the other side. 33But a certain Samaritan, as he journeyed, came where he was. And when he saw him, he had COMPASSION. 34So he went to him and BANDAGED HIS WOUNDS, pouring on oil and wine; and he set him on his own animal, brought him to an inn, and TOOK CARE OF HIM. 35On the next day, when he departed, he took out two denarii, gave them to the innkeeper, and said to him, ‘TAKE CARE OF HIM; and WHATEVER MORE YOU SPEND, when I come again, I WILL REPAY YOU.’ 36So which of these three do you think was NEIGHBOR to him who fell among the thieves? 37And he said, “He who SHOWED MERCY on him.” Then JESUS SAID to him, “GO AND DO LIKEWISE.”…” (Luke 10:25 – 37, NKJV)
“for not the hearers of the law are just in the sight of God, but the doers of the law will be justified;” (Romans 2:13, NKJV)
“For ALL THE LAW IS FULFILLED in one word, even in this: “You shall LOVE YOUR NEIGHBOR AS YOURSELF.” (Galatians 5:14, NKJV)
“If you really FULFILL the ROYAL LAW according to the Scripture, “You shall love your neighbor as yourself,” YOU DO WELL;” (James 2:8, NKJV)
Comment:
Martin Luther Speaks only of one Good Work needed for Faith (which will be the Fruit of True Faith as the evidence of Salvation & not that we are Saved by Works) in his Conclusion of this Famous Sermon which is “not” fasting, prayer, church attendance etc. but “… Love God, Love Neighbor …” which is what the “Charity Doctrine” is as Christ Explained this “Love God, Love Neighbor” in Action to “inherit Eternal Life” (Luke 10:25 – 27) to refer to “The Parable of the Good Samaritan” as the “Charity Doctrine” answer (in Luke 10:29 – 37) making this claim Biblical & True in Context, to quote:
“… Therefore, let each one see to it that he has these two together: the OIL, which is TRUE FAITH and trust in Christ; and the LAMPS, the VESSEL, which is the OUTWARD SERVICE TOWARD YOUR NEIGHBOR. The WHOLE CHRISTIAN LIFE CONSISTS in THESE TWO THINGS things: BELIEVE GOD. HELP YOUR NEIGHBOR. The WHOLE GOSPEL TEACHES this. PARENTS should TELL IT TO THEIR CHILDREN at HOME and EVERYWHERE. Children, too, should CONSTANTLY FOSTER THIS WORD AMONG THEMSELVES. I should really say something about the sleep of the virgins and about the setting out of the Bridegroom for the wedding. But the hour is late. Another time. May God be gracious to us! Amen. …”- The First Champion of the Protestant Faith, Blessed Martin Luther’s Sermon which was translated in 2013 by the Rev. Paul A. Rydecki, On Faith and Good Works, Preached in Erfurt at St. Michaeliskirche on the Day of the 11,000 Virgins (October 21st), 1522
Source: http://www.godwithuslc.org/luther-sermon-for-trinity-27/
Please note Martin Luther’s definition of “oil and lamp” as follows from this last quote from him and the Conclusion of the Gospel’s True Faith too:
- Meaning of OIL
“… OIL, which is TRUE FAITH and trust in Christ; …” – Martin Luther
- Meaning of LAMP
“… and the LAMPS, the VESSEL, which is the OUTWARD SERVICE TOWARD YOUR NEIGHBOR. …” – Martin Luther
iii. Charity Doctrine is the Evidence of Salvation in a True Christian and he does & preaches it toward others beginning with family first
“… The WHOLE CHRISTIAN LIFE CONSISTS in THESE TWO THINGS things: BELIEVE GOD. HELP YOUR NEIGHBOR. The WHOLE GOSPEL TEACHES this. PARENTS should TELL IT TO THEIR CHILDREN at HOME and EVERYWHERE. Children, too, should CONSTANTLY FOSTER THIS WORD AMONG THEMSELVES. …” – Martin Luther
Comment: This is the ‘Charity Doctrine’ as Beautifully Summarized as the ‘Whole Gospel’ by ‘Martin Luther himself, not me’ in his quote above and thus any responsible preaching of the Gospel must include it as Martin Luther exhorts parents to teach this to their Children and children share this Word to others lest one becomes the “foolish” virgins. Can you see it? Please read the entire sermon by Martin Luther, the First Champion of the Protestant Faith as he explains this Parable of the five wise/five foolish virgins (Matthew 25:1 – 13) to say ‘nothing more’ in this context. If there was anything more or important, such a great man of God for all protestants would have known it. And it’s not the case. We Preach this most important Doctrine for the Christian Faith ‘likewise’.
The LAMP is ‘Outward Good Works’ as Martin Luther also defined it as such above agreeing to this Verse and Jewish Christianity related Idiom too, to quote:
“… 22“The LAMP OF THE BODY is the EYE. If therefore your EYE is GOOD, your WHOLE BODY will be FULL of LIGHT. 23But if your eye is bad, your whole body will be full of darkness. If therefore the light that is in you is darkness, how great is that darkness! 24“No one can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, or else he will be loyal to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and mammon [MONEY]. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 6:22 – 24, NKJV)
Someone put it like this, a Good Eye (Hebrew: Ayin Tov) is a Hebrew idiom meaning “generous person”. Having a good eye essentially means “having the ability to be generous when the opportunity is needed”. To quote:
“… Jesus’ saying appears, however, to be a Hebraic idiom that was used to describe a person’s outlook towards others. A person with a “good eye” (tov-ayin or ayin-tovah) was a person who looked at others with compassion and had a generous spirit, and gave to others as needed. The person with the evil eye (ayin ra’ah) is one who is stingy toward others and greedy with money. This expression is still used in Hebrew today. When people go through Jerusalem raising money, they say, “Please give with a good eye!” The same idiom is also found in Proverbs: “A generous man (Literally, “A good eye”) will be blessed, for he shares his food with the poor.” (Proverbs 22:9) Jesus also uses it at the end of the parable of the landowner who pays the workers all the same, no matter how long they work. The landowner says to the complainers, literally, “Is your eye evil (greedy) because I am good?” (Matthew 20:15). Understanding this idiom helps us understand the whole passage in Matthew 6 that begins with “Do not lay your treasures up on earth,” then talks about the good/evil eye, and then ends with “One cannot serve two masters – both God and money.” All three of these sayings are part of a greater teaching on having the right attitude toward money. …”
Source: https://engediresourcecenter.com/2015/06/30/tov-ayin-a-good-eye/
“… 9“And I say to you, MAKE FRIENDS FOR YOURSELVES by UNRIGHTEOUS [D]MAMMON, that when [e]you fail, they may receive you into an EVERLASTING HOME. 10He who is faithful in what is least is faithful also in much; and he who is unjust in what is least is unjust also in much. 11Therefore IF YOU HAVE NOT BEEN FAITHFUL IN THE UNRIGHTEOUS MAMMON, WHO WILL COMMIT TO YOUR TRUST THE TRUE RICHES? 12And if you have not been faithful in what is another man’s, who will give you what is your own? 13“No servant can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, or else he will be loyal to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and mammon.” …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 16:9 – 13, NKJV)
This Sanctification Fills “God’s Light” within us as Christ Himself Reveals in Verses below:
“… Let YOUR LIGHT SO SHINE before men, that they may see YOUR GOOD WORKS and glorify your Father in heaven. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 5:16, NKJV)
Please take note that Christ defines “the LIGHT” in “let YOUR LIGHT SHINE” before men as “YOUR GOOD WORKS” and so likewise the “LAMP” in the “Parable of the Wise and Foolish Virgins” must thus mean “Good Works” as per “Christ’s Words Defining His Own Words”, right?. Can you see it as it is Written in Verse above?
“… 14“YOU ARE THE LIGHT OF THE WORLD. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden. 15Nor do they light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house. 16Let YOUR LIGHT SO SHINE BEFORE MEN, that they may see YOUR GOOD WORKS and glorify your Father in heaven. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 5:14 – 16, NKJV)
Conclusion – Judgment Day Verses
In the Judgment Day Verses below, Christ Doesn’t even Ask ‘how many hours you prayed, or whether you fasted or whether you attended church or sang songs etc.’ (though these acts can be rewarded) but ONLY ASKS these CHARITY DOCTRINE ACTS and immediately casts those WITHOUT SUCH CHARITY DOCTRINE ACTS into the ETERNAL/Aeonian Fire (Let Him Decide if it’s Eternal or to the Aeon – Are you going to quote that you didn’t need to do this on Judgment Day in front of Him with these Verses in front of you?, Matthew 25:31 – 46)
Best is, the Context of the Parable of the 5 Wise and 5 Foolish Virgins also agrees because HE TAUGHT BOTH DURING THIS SAME SERMON as follows and hence how can the ‘Parable of the 10 Virgins’ mean a ‘different context’ even in principle as your pastors say? (At most it can refer to the First and Second Resurrections which are separated by 1000 years but the Essence of Works of Saving Faith or Righteousness Required in both Parables must be the same, Compare: Revelation 20:4 – 15 – Maybe not believing in these Verses may risk you being an “Unbeliever” mentioned in Revelation 20:11 – 15 for this same topic where “believers” refers to “those who do these CHARITY DOCTRINE ACTS because they believed in CHRIST’S JUDGMENT DAY SERMON next and DID LIKEWISE”? Let God Decide but it’s possible ).
Yes, the Case that the LAMPS LIT refers to those WITH THE HOLY SPIRIT of GOD TO DO the CHARITY DOCTRINE ACTS toward others is exactly what these JUDGMENT DAY CHARITY DOCTRINE ACTS of FEEDING THE HUNGRY, THIRSTY, CLOTHING THE NAKED and WELCOMING the STRANGER to your HOUSE is when Matthew 25:1 – 13 is understood with Matthew 25:31 – 46, to quote both together “as it is Written”:
“…. 1“Then the kingdom of heaven shall be likened to ten virgins who took their lamps and went out to meet the bridegroom. 2Now five of them were wise, and five were foolish. 3Those who were foolish took their lamps and took no oil with them, 4but the wise took oil in their vessels with their lamps. 5But while the bridegroom was delayed, they all slumbered and slept. 6“And at midnight a cry was heard: ‘Behold, the bridegroom [a]is coming; go out to meet him!’ 7Then all those virgins arose and trimmed their lamps. 8And the foolish said to the wise, ‘Give us some of your oil, for our lamps are going out.’ 9But the wise answered, saying, ‘No, lest there should not be enough for us and you; but go rather to those who sell, and buy for yourselves.’ 10And while they went to buy, the bridegroom came, and those who were ready went in with him to the wedding; and the door was shut. 11“Afterward the other virgins came also, saying, ‘Lord, Lord, open to us!’ 12But he answered and said, ‘Assuredly, I SAY TO YOU, I DO NOT KNOW YOU.’ 13“Watch therefore, for you know neither the day nor the hour [b]in which the Son of Man is coming. … 31“When the Son of Man comes in His glory, and all the [c]holy angels with Him, then He will sit on the throne of His glory. 32All the nations will be gathered before Him, and He will separate them one from another, as a shepherd divides his sheep from the goats. 33And He will set the sheep on His right hand, but the goats on the left. 34Then the King will say to those on His right hand, ‘Come, you blessed of My Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world: 35for I was hungry and you gave Me food; I was thirsty and you gave Me drink; I was a stranger and you took Me in; 36I was naked and you clothed Me; I was sick and you visited Me; I was in prison and you came to Me.’ 37“Then the righteous will answer Him, saying, ‘Lord, when did we see You hungry and feed You, or thirsty and give You drink? 38When did we see You a stranger and take You in, or naked and clothe You? 39Or when did we see You sick, or in prison, and come to You?’ 40And the King will answer and say to them, ‘Assuredly, I say to you, inasmuch as you did it to one of the least of these My brethren, you did it to Me.’ 41“Then He will also say to those on the left hand, ‘Depart from Me, you cursed, into the everlasting fire prepared for the devil and his angels: 42for I was hungry and you gave Me no food; I was thirsty and you gave Me no drink; 43I was a stranger and you did not take Me in, naked and you did not clothe Me, sick and in prison and you did not visit Me.’ 44“Then they also will answer [d]Him, saying, ‘Lord, when DID WE SEE YOU HUNGRY or THIRSTY OR A STRANGER OR NAKED OR SICK or in PRISON, and did not minister to You?’ 45Then He will answer them, saying, ‘Assuredly, I say to you, inasmuch as YOU DID NOT DO IT to one of the least of these, you DID NOT DO IT TO ME.’ 46And THESE WILL GO AWAY INTO EVERLASTING PUNISHMENT, but the righteous into eternal life.” …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 25:1 – 13, 31 – 46, NKJV)
Context Settlement: No matter what one pastor or evangelist or whoever says anything, it cannot undo what the “Judgment Day” Verses Describe next. So the ‘Safe Route Scripturally’ is to “Do” and “Preach” these “Charity Doctrine Acts” of “Feeding the Hungry, Thirsty, Welcoming the Stranger, Clothing the naked” to be on the Safe Side of Utmost Obedience Scripturally for which there is “no” Condemnation at all.
An Important Point to Ponder: It is those who DID NOT DO these CHARITY DOCTRINE ACTS “…”… ‘Lord, when DID WE SEE YOU HUNGRY or THIRSTY OR A STRANGER OR NAKED OR SICK or in PRISON, and did not minister to You?’ …” to whom CHRIST SAYS “… 45Then He will answer them, saying, ‘Assuredly, I say to you, inasmuch as YOU DID NOT DO IT to one of the least of these, you DID NOT DO IT TO ME.’ 46And THESE WILL GO AWAY INTO EVERLASTING PUNISHMENT …”.
So if we are not Preaching these Verses in Full as above, we are probably risking people to go to ‘Eternal Punishment’, right? Please notice that these REJECTED people who REJECTED the CHARITY DOCTRINE call him “Lord” too in Verses above.
P/S: First Christianity Quotes – Church Father Preached the Same Meaning to the Parable of the 5 Wise and 5 Foolish Virgins
1) St. Jerome of the Vulgate
“… This parable of the ten foolish and the ten wise virgins, some interpret literally of virgins, of whom there are according to the Apostle [marg. note: 1 Cor 7] some who are virgins both in body and in thought, others who have preserved indeed their bodies virgin, but have not the other deeds of virgins, or have only been preserved by the guardianship of parents, but have wedded in their hearts. But from what has gone before, I think the meaning to be different, and that the parable has reference not to virgins only, but to the whole human race. … Or, These virgins who complain that their lamps are gone out, shew that they are partially alight, yet have they not an unfailing light, nor enduring works. Whoso then has a virgin soul, and is a lover of chastity, ought not to rest content with such virtues as quickly fade, and are withered away when the heat comes upon them, but should follow after perfect virtues, that he may have an enduring light. … For these wise virgins do not answer thus out of covetousness, [p. 849] but out of fear. Wherefore, each man shall receive the recompense of his own works, and the virtues of one cannot atone for the vices of another in the day of judgment. The wise admonish them not to go to meet the bridegroom without oil, “Go ye rather to them that sell, and buy for yourselves.” … And this oil is sold, and at a high cost, nor is it to be got without much toil; so that we understand it not of alms only, but of all virtues and counsels of the teachers. … But because the [p. 850] season for buying was now past, and the day of judgment was coming on, so that there was no room for penitence, they must not now lay up new works, but give an account of the old. … After the day of judgment, there is no more opportunity for good works, or for righteousness, and therefore it follows, “And the door was shut.” … Their worthy confession calling Him, “Lord, Lord,” is a mark of faith. But what avails it to confess with the mouth Him whom you deny with your works? … For “the Lord knoweth them that are his,” [2 Tim 2:19] and he that knoweth not shall not be known, and though they be virgins in purity of body, or in confession of the true faith, yet forasmuch as they have no oil, they are unknown by the bridegroom. When He adds, “Watch therefore, because ye know not the day nor the hour,” He means that all that has been said points to this, namely, that seeing we know not the day of judgment, we should be careful in providing the light of good works. …” – Blessed St. Jerome of the Vulgate, Doctor of the Church who did the First Official Translation of the Bible out of Its Original Languages into Latin, Priest, Confessor, Secretary to Pope Damasus I (c. 347 AD – c. 420 AD, Commentary on Matthew 25:1 – 13’s Parable of the Five Wise/Foolish Virgins in Catena Aurea)
2) St. Hilary of Poitiers
“… The “oil” is the fruit of good works, the “vessels” are the human bodies in whose inward parts the treasure of a good conscience is to be laid up. … At the trumpet signal they go forth to meet the bridegroom alone, for then shall the two be one, that is, the flesh and God, when the lowliness of the flesh shall be transformed into spiritual glory. … Or, the trimming their lamps is the return of their souls into their bodies, and their light is the consciousness of good works that shines forth, which is contained in the vessels of the body. … They that sell are the poor, who, needing the alms of the faithful, made them that recompense which they desire, selling in return for the relief afforded to their wants, a consciousness of good works. This is the abundant fuel of an undying light which may be bought and stored up for the fruits of mercy. … “The marriage” is the putting on of immortality, and the joining together corruption and incorruption in a new union. … Yet though the season of repentance is now past, the foolish virgins come and beg that entrance may be granted to them. …” …” – Blessed St. Hilary of Poictiers, the “Athanasius of the West”, Doctor of the Church, The Champion of Trinity in the West (c. 310 AD – c. 368 AD, Commentary on Matthew 25:1 – 13’s Parable of the Five Wise/Foolish Virgins in Catena Aurea)
3) Origen of Alexandria
“… Or, The “oil” is the word of teaching, with which the vessels of souls are filled ; for what gives so great content as moral discourse, which is called the oil of light. The “wise” took with them of this oil, as much as would suffice, though the Word should tarry long, and be slack to come to their consummation. The, “foolish” took lamps, alight indeed at the first, but not supplied with so much oil as should suffice even to the end, being careless respecting the provision of doctrine which comforts faith, and enlightens the lamp of good deeds. … Or, Whilst the bridegroom “tarried,” and the Word comes not speedily to the consummation of this life, the senses suffer, slumbering and moving in the night of the world; and sleep, as energizing feebly, and with no quick sense. Yet did those wise virgins not quit their lamps, nor despair of hoarding their oil. … ” – Blessed Origen of Alexandria, the Great but surprisingly Modest Exegete of the Eastern Church, “Nicknamed: Admantius or Man of Steel”, Tortured and Martyred for Christ (c. 184 AD – c. 253 AD, Commentary on Matthew 25:1 – 13’s Parable of the Five Wise/Foolish Virgins in Catena Aurea)
4) St. Gregory the Great
“… For in each of the five senses of the body there is a double instrument, and the number five doubled makes ten. And because the company of the faithful is gathered out of both sexes, the Holy Church is described as being like to ten virgins, where as bad are mixed with good, and reprobate with elect, it is like a mixture of wise and foolish virgins. … It is to be observed, that all have lamps, but all have not oil. … To sleep is to die, to slumber before sleep is to faint from salvation before death, because, by the burden of sickness we come to the sleep of death. … Or, “All the virgins arose,” [p. 848] that is, both elect and reprobate are roused from the sleep of death; they “trimmed their lamps,” that is, they reckon up to themselves their works for which they look to receive eternal blessedness. … The lamps of the foolish virgins go out, because the works which appeared outwardly to men to be bright, are dimmed within at the coming of the Judge. That they then beg oil of the wise virgins, what is it but that at the coming of the Judge, when they find themselves empty within, they seek for witness from without? As though deceived by their own self-confidence, they say to their neighbours, “Whereas ye see us rejected as living without works, do ye witness to our works that ye have seen. …” – Blessed Roman Catholic Pope St. Gregory the Great, Saint Gregory the Dialogist in Eastern Christianity, the Father of Christian Worship, and John Calvin declared in his Institutes that Gregory was the last good Pope. (540 AD – 604 AD, Commentary on Matthew 25:1 – 13’s Parable of the Five Wise/Foolish Virgins in Catena Aurea)
5) St. John Chrysostom
“… Hom. lxxviii, In the foregoing parable the Lord set forth the punishment of the man who beat, and was drunk, and wasted [p. 844] his Lord’s goods; in this He declares his punishment who profits not, and does not prepare for himself abundantly the things of which he has need; for the foolish virgins had oil, but not enough. … And He employs the character virgins in this parable to shew, that though virginity be a great thing, yet if it be not accompanied by works of mercy, it shall be cast out with the adulterers. … Or, The “oil” denotes charity, alms, and every aid rendered to the needy; the lamps denote the gifts of virginity; and He calls them “foolish,” because after having gone through the greater toil, they lost all for the sake of a less; for it is greater labour to overcome the desires of the flesh than of money. … You see then how great merchants the poor are to us; but the poor are not there, but here, and therefore we must store up oil here, that we may have it to use there when occasion shall require. … That, “While they went to buy,” shews that even, if we should become merciful after death, it will avail us nothing to escape punishment, as it was no profit to the rich man, that he became merciful and careful about those who belonged to him. …” – Blessed St. John Chrysostom, Archbishop of Constantinople, Doctor of the Church, one of the Three Holy Hierarchs (c. 349 AD – c. 407 AD, Commentary on Matthew 25:1 – 13’s Parable of the Five Wise/Foolish Virgins in Catena Aurea)
Source:
6) St. Augustine of Hippo
“… Lib. 83 Quaest, Q59: Or, “The lamps” which they carry in their hands are their works, of which it was said above, “Let your works shine before men.” [Matt 5:16] … Or, by the five virgins, is denoted a five-fold continence from the allurements of the flesh; for our appetite must be held from gratification of the eyes, ears, smell, taste, and touch. And as this continence may be done before God, to please Him in inward joy of the conscience, or before men only to gain applause of men, five are called wise, and five foolish. Both are virgins, because both these men exercise continence, though from different motives. … Or, The “oil” denotes joy, according to that, “God hath anointed thee with the oil of gladness.” [Ps 45:7] He then whose joy springs not from this that he is inwardly pleasing to God, has no oil with him; for they have no gladness in their continent lives, [p. 846] save in the praises of men. “But the wise took oil with their lamps,” that is, the gladness of good works, “in their vessels,” that is, they stored it in their heart and conscience, as the Apostle speaks, “Let every man prove himself, and then shall he have rejoicing in himself, and not in another.” [Gal 6:4] … For there die of both kinds of men in this interval of time before the resurrection of the dead, and the Lord’s coming shall be. … They “trimmed their lamps,” that is, prepared to give an account of their deeds. … From habit, the mind seeks that which uses to give it pleasure. And these now seek from men, who see not the heart, witness to God, who sees the heart. But their lamps go out, because those, whose good works rest upon the testimony of others, when that is withdrawn, sink into nothing. … Or we may suppose it not meant as advice what they should do, but as an indirect allusion to their fault. For flatterers sell oil, who by praising things false, and things unknown, lead souls astray, recommending to them, as foolish, empty joys, and receiving in return some temporal benefit. … Go ye rather to them that sell, and buy for yourselves,” i.e. Let us now see what they can profit you who have used to sell you their praise. “Lest there be not enough for us and you,” because no man is profited in God’s sight by the testimony of others, because God sees the heart, and each man is scarce able to give testimony concerning his own conscience. … When they have been taken in who have been changed into angelic being, all entrance into the kingdom of heaven is closed; after the judgment, there is no more place for prayers or merit. [marg. note: 1 Cor 15:51] … It is not said that they bought any oil, and therefore we must suppose that all their delight in the praise of men being gone, they return in distress and affliction to implore God. But His severity, after judgment, is as great as His mercy was unspeakable before. “But He answered [p. 851] and said, Verily I say unto you, I know you not;” by that rule, namely, that the art of God, that is, His wisdom, does not admit that those should enter into His joy who have sought to do in any thing according to His commandments, not as before God, but that they may please men. … ” – Blessed St. Augustine of Hippo, Doctor of the Church, who influenced virtually all of subsequent Western philosophy and Catholic theology, as well as a significant amount of Protestant theology (c. 354 AD – c. 430 AD, Commentary on Matthew 25:1 – 13’s Parable of the Five Wise/Foolish Virgins in Catena Aurea)
Love Feasts Mystery in First Christianity – Safe Route Scripturally with the Charity Doctrine Lifestyle
These “Love Feasts” Helped to Identify the Selfish Fake Christians without the Charity Doctrine who cared for themselves only in First Christianity as Blessed Apostle St . Jude records in Jude 1:12.
Bible Verse (Jude 1:12) in a few Translations/Manuscripts:
New International Version
These people are blemishes at your LOVE FEASTS, eating with you without the slightest qualm–SHEPHERDS WHO FEED ONLY THEMSELVES. They are clouds without rain, blown along by the wind; autumn trees, WITHOUT FRUIT AND UPROOTED–TWICE DEAD.
New Living Translation
When these people eat with you in your FELLOWSHIP MEALS commemorating the LORD’S LOVE, they are like dangerous reefs that can shipwreck you. They are like SHAMELESS SHEPHERDS WHO CARE ONLY FOR THEMSELVES. They are like clouds blowing over the land without giving any rain. They are like trees in autumn that ARE DOUBLY DEAD, for they BEAR NO FRUIT and have been PULLED UP BY THE ROOTS.
English Standard Version
These are hidden reefs at your LOVE FEASTS, as THEY FEAST WITH YOU without fear, SHEPHERDS FEEDING THEMSELVES; waterless clouds, swept along by winds; FRUITLESS TREES in late autumn, TWICE DEAD, UPROOTED;
Berean Study Bible
These men are hidden reefs in your LOVE FEASTS, SHAMELESSLY FEASTING WITH YOU but SHEPHERDING ONLY THEMSELVES. They are clouds without water, carried along by the wind; FRUITLESS TREES in autumn, TWICE DEAD AFTER BEING UPROOTED.
Berean Literal Bible
These are the hidden reefs, FEASTING TOGETHER WITH YOU fearlessly in your LOVE FEASTS; SHEPHERDING THEMSELVES; clouds without water, being carried about by winds; autumnal trees WITHOUT FRUIT, TWICE HAVING DIED, having been UPROOTED;
King James Bible
These are spots in your FEASTS OF CHARITY, when THEY FEAST WITH YOU, FEEDING THEMSELVES without fear: clouds they are without water, carried about of winds; trees whose fruit withereth, WITHOUT FRUIT, TWICE DEAD, plucked up by the roots;
New King James Version
These are spots in your LOVE FEASTS, while THEY FEAST WITH YOU without fear, SERVING ONLY THEMSELVES. They are clouds without water, carried about by the winds; late autumn trees WITHOUT FRUIT, TWICE DEAD, pulled up by the roots;
New American Standard Bible
These are the ones who are hidden reefs in your LOVE FEASTS when THEY FEAST WITH YOU without fear, like SHEPHERDS CARING ONLY FOR THEMSELVES; clouds without water, carried along by winds; autumn trees WITHOUT FRUIT, DOUBLY DEAD, UPROOTED;
Source: https://biblehub.com/jude/1-12.htm
Church History, to quote:
“… If you were to ask the ordinary Christian today what a Christian meeting was like in the days of the apostles, you would probably get different answers. An evangelical Christian would probably answer that it consisted primarily of preaching and singing. A charismatic Christian might reply that it primarily incorporated worship, praise, and the exercise of miraculous gifts. An Anglican might reply that it was principally a celebration of the Eucharist. Of course, all of those responses are partially right. However, a rather dominant part of apostolic worship that few Christians would think of today is that it centered around a meal. That’s right—a meal! The early Christians referred to this meal as the agape. Even after the death of the apostles, the pre-Nicene Church continued to practice the agape or love feast. Yet, within a century or so after Constantine’s conversion, this important part of apostolic worship totally disappeared. …”
Source: https://earlychurch.com/love-feast/
Conclusion
Please notice that this Bible Verse in Jude 1:12 clearly identifies this group of “Fake Christians” who participate in “Love Feasts” (Meals shared by Christians among each other and toward others) but their intention is only to ‘gain selfishly from it’ with “no” intention of sharing from their ‘own expense’ where such ones are particularly called out as “WITHOUT FRUIT” and “TWICE DEAD” even as “UPROOTED” which reminds us of Christ’s Words below:
“… [13But He answered and said,] “Every plant which My heavenly Father has NOT PLANTED WILL BE UPROOTED. 14LET THEM ALONE. They are blind leaders of the blind. And if the blind leads the blind, both will fall into a ditch.” …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 15:13 – 14, NKJV)
Matthew 15:13 – 14 and Jude 1:12 both contain the similar meaning of those who are “UPROOTED”.
Those “Uprooted” in Jude 1:12’s identification clearly refers to those who do “not” contribute or care for others in a “Love Feast” (a Popular Charity Doctrine Act in First Christianity) gaining only selfishly from it are even called as “Twice Dead” and “Without Fruit” where the opposite can be inferred as follows: Those who “care for others” with “action” in “providing love feasts” (Charity Doctrine Acts) toward others are certainly not dead, are with spiritual fruits and are “Rooted” by the Heavenly Father.
Those “Uprooted” in Matthew 15:13 – 14’s Identification does not refer to those Outside the Church/Synagogue at that time as the “Uprooted” ones (i.e. the “Pharisees”) whom Christ was referring too were the ones running the Church/Synagogues at that time while the ‘cast out ones’ who “Follow Christ” were truly the “Rooted” by the Father ones at that time.
More clearly, Matthew 15:13 – 14’s “Uprooted” ones refers clearly toward any Judaism at that time (or in analogy Christianity) which does “not” obey “God’s Direct Commands” and instead ‘obeys man-made Commands not Written in the Bible’:
Yes, who does Christ Refer to when He refers that they will be “Uprooted”? Those who did “not” obey God’s Commands as these Verses from this ‘Same Chapter’ Testify in Christ’s Own Most Blessed Words below as follows:
“… 3He answered and said to them, “Why do you also TRANSGRESS THE COMMANDMENT OF GOD BECAUSE OF YOUR TRADITION? … 8‘These people [c]draw near to Me with their mouth,
And honor Me with their lips,
But their heart is far from Me.
9And in vain they worship Me,
TEACHING AS DOCTRINES the COMMANDMENTS OF MEN.’ ” …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 15:3, 8 – 9, NKJV)
“… 27So the servants of the owner came and said to him, ‘Sir, did you not sow good seed in your field? How then does it have tares?’ 28He said to them, ‘An enemy has done this.’ The servants said to him, ‘Do you want us then to go and gather them up?’ 29But he said, ‘No, lest while you gather up the tares you also uproot the wheat with them. 30LET BOTH GROW TOGETHER UNTIL THE HARVEST, and at the time of harvest I will say to the reapers, “First gather together the tares and bind them in bundles to burn them, but gather the wheat into my barn.” …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 13:27 – 30, NKJV)
When is this Harvest or “Uprooting” Done? Not now but at the “End of this Age/Aeon/Olam”:
“… The enemy who sowed them is the devil, the HARVEST IS THE END OF THE AGE, and the reapers are the angels. …” (Matthew 13:39, NKJV)
Please notice that God doesn’t allow the “Judgment or Uprooting” of “Tares” (fake believers) now and that’s why we have so many different denominations of Christianity simply because the “Wheat” (or true believers) also exist among them which is only separated at the “end of the age” so as not to harm the wheat as CHRIST COMMANDS in these Verses so clearly.
Please note that according to Verses above, the “Uprooting” does NOT Happen on Earth now and that’s why it does “not” mean that a big Church/Congregation is planted or vice versa because only God Reveals at the end of this age (not now) according to who “Obeyed God’s Commands” as “Wheat” and the “tares” as those who will be “Uprooted” for “Disobeying” which includes even the “Many” (as Matthew 7:22 Reveals) who are rejected despite having done “Miracles, Cast out Demons and Prophesied in His Name” (as Matthew 7:21 – 23 Prophesied).
Blessed Martin Luther (the Protestant Reformer) is human and can err in Doctrine but he would not have erred in the “Faith and Works” Doctrine because to err in that brings the Protestant Movement to nothing. So we believe that he got at least that part right and interestingly in his explanation of the Parable of the Wise and Foolish Virgins, he ties up the Context of the rejected Five Foolish Virgins to the “lack of Charity Doctrine Lifestyle and Commands of the Gospel by Christ” as discussed in link in post below:
https://www.facebook.com/651792783/posts/10160853112937784/
Also, to quote regarding “First Love” and “First Works” (example):
Blessed Martin Luther also Prophesied who are the Rejected Christians of Matthew 7:21 – 24 who are the tares that grew together with the wheat across the denominations that are rejected despite having done “Miracles, Cast out Demons and Prophesied in His Name” (as Matthew 7:21 – 23 Prophesies) whom he describes as follows (does any Protestant dare call him a false prophet if they disagree?), to quote:
Yes, the Foolish Virgins are those with “no” Good Works though they appear Godly but have these major sins: “… wrathful as before, just as covetous (i.e. loving ‘Prosperity/Money’), just as unmerciful toward the poor (i.e. “no” Charity Doctrine), just as discourteous, …” in Martin Luther’s words:
“… The Lord is speaking now about Christendom and compares it to ten virgins. Five are wise, five foolish. Here He calls all Christians “virgins.” The foolish virgins are those Christians who give the appearance and impression of being godly. They want to be good evangelicals and are able to say much about these things. They praise the Word and say: “Yes, it is a splendid thing. This is what it means. It cannot possibly be otherwise according to the Scripture, etc.” Paul speaks of these people in 1 Cor. 4:20: “The kingdom of God is not in speech, but in power.” It consists not in speech, but in life; not in words, but in works. Although they are able to say much about many things, they are in reality unwise virgins who only have the lamps or the vessel, that is, the external equipment, and they behave according to their nature, as Matthew writes (7:22), saying: “Lord, Lord!” The mouth is there, but the heart is far away (Matt. 15:8). The oil is not in the lamp, that is, faith is not in the heart. They give it no thought. Indeed, they know it not and imagine that their lamps are ready. Their nature is that they gladly hear the preaching about faith, and if they have heard the Word, they invent and fabricate for themselves a thought, a delusion in the heart which they consider to be OIL, and yet they remain the same as before in their behavior. Following their old ways, they are just as WRATHFUL as before, just as COVETOUS, just as UNMERCIFUL TOWARD THE POOR, just as DISCOURTEOUS, etc. This faith is a manmade thing. …” – The First Champion of the Protestant Faith, Blessed Martin Luther’s Sermon which was translated in 2013 by the Rev. Paul A. Rydecki, On Faith and Good Works, Preached in Erfurt at St. Michaeliskirche on the Day of the 11,000 Virgins (October 21st), 1522
Source: http://www.godwithuslc.org/luther-sermon-for-trinity-27/
Comment: Please note carefully that those who don’t have the “oil” have a man-made faith which “loves money/prosperity” (i.e. Covetous, Could it be the ‘Prosperity Gospel’?) and are “unmerciful toward the poor” (i.e. could it be a Christianity which does “not” teach the “Charity Doctrine”?) according to Martin Luther himself in his own words above.
That is why we exhort believers to seriously observe whatever “New Testament Commands” are there especially those which are Directly from Christ such as the “Charity Doctrine Commands”, “His Famous you have heard it was said But I tell you Commands” and even “His Written Commands via His Apostles only” as Jude himself warned in contrast too whilst warning the above in general as follows:
“… But you, beloved, REMEMBER THE WORDS which were spoken before by the APOSTLES OF OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST: …” (Jude 1:17, NKJV)
This is why the “Safe Route Scripturally” is to “not” follow after a modern Christianity especially those of the Progressive Revelation type where they often claim to do against the “New Testament Commands” claiming that the “Holy Spirit” told them so. As I said earlier, we don’t need to judge them nor agree with them to be safe and let God Reveal One Day whether He Spoke Differently than these “New Testament Commands” toward such a Christianity as we don’t want to do a ‘Blasphemy of the Holy Spirit either way’ as discussed in link in post below,
https://www.facebook.com/651792783/posts/10160853112937784/
Also, to quote regarding “First Love” and “First Works” (example):
“… 4NEVERTHELESS I HAVE THIS AGAINST YOU, THAT YOU HAVE LEFT YOUR FIRST LOVE. 5Remember therefore from where YOU HAVE FALLEN; REPENT and DO THE FIRST WORKS, or else I will come to you quickly and remove your lampstand from its place—UNLESS YOU REPENT. …” (Revelation 2:4 – 5, NKJV)
Please notice carefully that Christ Calls them as “Fallen” and need to “Repent” meaning that they are thus clearly “unsaved” because of not doing the “First Works” and for forsaking their “First Love”.
Why? Christ doesn’t point to “sexual immorality or other sins” as He Does with another church in Revelation 2:14 – 15 (quoted above for comparison) but rather points to a Mysterious Reason that they are NOT SAVED DESPITE THEIR FAITH all because THEY HAVE LEFT THEIR “FIRST LOVE” and their “FIRST WORKS”.
So, what could the “First Love” and “First Works” mean? It could mean
- i) Possible “First Love” Meaning
Not Doing the Charity Doctrine Acts of Love toward others which was present in the First Church (e.g. Acts 2:44 – 46, Acts 4:32) because God is Looking for “LOVE IN ACTION” with “WORLDLY POSSESSIONS” and not in words only (e.g. Matthew 25:31 – 46, Luke 12:31 – 35, Luke 10:25 – 37, Galatians 5:14, Luke 11:39 – 41, 1 John 3:14 – 18).
“… 29JESUS answered him, “The [k]first of all the commandments is: ‘Hear, O Israel, the Lord our God, the Lord is one. 30And you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your mind, and with all your strength.’ [l]This is the first commandment. 31And the second, like it, is this: ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is NO OTHER COMMANDMENT GREATER THAN THESE.” …” (Mark 12:29 – 31, NKJV)
It’s highly probable that they’re not fulfilling these Greatest Commands to love God and others where our love for God is only as much as we love others in action, Verses:
“… 20If someone says, “I LOVE GOD,” and HATES HIS BROTHER, HE IS A LIAR; for he who does not love his brother whom he has seen, [d]how can he love God whom he has not seen? 21And this commandment we have from Him: that HE WHO LOVES GOD MUST LOVE HIS BROTHER ALSO. …” (1 John 4:20 – 21, NKJV)
“… 17But WHOEVER HAS THIS WORLD’S GOODS, and sees his brother in need, and shuts up his heart from him, HOW DOES THE LOVE OF GOD ABIDE IN HIM? 18My little children, let us NOT LOVE in WORD or in TONGUE, but in DEED and in truth. …” (1 John 3:17 – 18, NKJV)
And/Or
- ii) Possible “First Works” Meaning
Not Obeying or following the Apostolic WRITTEN TRADITIONS of the NEW TESTAMENT COMMANDS which were delivered as the “First Works” of the Church, Example Verses:
“… If anyone thinks himself to be a prophet or spiritual, let him acknowledge that the things which I WRITE to you are the COMMANDMENTS OF THE LORD. …” (1 Corinthians 14:37, NKJV)
“… that you may be mindful of the words which were spoken before by the holy prophets, and of the COMMANDMENT of us, the APOSTLES OF THE LORD and SAVIOR, …” (2 Peter 3:2, NKJV)
“… that you may learn in us NOT TO THINK BEYOND WHAT IS WRITTEN, that none of you may be [c]puffed up on behalf of one against the other. … 14I do not write these things to shame you, but as my beloved children I warn you. 15For though you might have ten thousand instructors in Christ, yet you do not have many fathers; for in Christ Jesus I have begotten you through the gospel. 16Therefore I URGE YOU, IMITATE ME. 17For this reason I have sent Timothy to you, who is my beloved and faithful son in the Lord, who will remind you of my ways in Christ, as I TEACH EVERYWHERE IN EVERY CHURCH. …” (1 Corinthians 4:4, 14 – 17, NKJV)
One thing is for sure: Whoever follows these New Testament Commands will never be condemned according to Verse below:
“… 1 IMITATE ME, just as I also IMITATE CHRIST. 2Now I PRAISE YOU, brethren, that you remember me in all things and KEEP THE TRADITIONS just as I delivered them to you. … 16But if anyone seems to be contentious, we have no such custom, nor do the churches of God. … ” (1 Corinthians 11:1 – 2, 11:16, NKJV)
Whomever doesn’t follow it may be right or not (I am not sure, let God Decide) but the verses below can put them at risk:
“… 33For God is not a God of disorder but of peace—as in all the congregations of the Lord’s people … 36Or did the word of God originate with you? Or are you the only people it has reached? 37If anyone thinks they are a PROPHET or otherwise GIFTED BY THE SPIRIT, let them ACKNOWLEDGE that WHAT I AM WRITING to you is the LORD’S COMMAND. 38But if anyone IGNORES THIS, THEY WILL THEMSELVES BE IGNORED. …” (1 Corinthians 14:33, 36 – 38, NIV)
“… For I bear them witness that they have a ZEAL FOR GOD, but NOT ACCORDING TO KNOWLEDGE. …” (Romans 10:2, NKJV)
“… 5And also if anyone competes in athletics, he is NOT CROWNED unless he COMPETES ACCORDING to THE RULES. … 14REMIND THEM OF THESE THINGS, charging them before the Lord not to [d]strive about words to no profit, to the RUIN OF THE HEARERS. … ” (2 Timothy 2:5, 14, NKJV)
Yes, God’s Will is to Encourage with both “GOOD WORD” and “GOOD WORK” based on the “WRITTEN TRADITIONS” in the New Testament Scripture, Verses:
“… 15Therefore, brethren, STAND FAST AND HOLD THE TRADITIONS which you were taught, whether BY WORD OR OUR [H]EPISTLE. 16Now may our Lord Jesus Christ Himself, and our God and Father, who has loved us and given us everlasting consolation and good hope by grace, 17comfort your hearts and [i]establish you in EVERY GOOD WORD AND WORK. …” (2 Thessalonians 2:15 – 17, NKJV)
One thing is for sure. Obeying any “New Testament Commands” is the ‘Safe Route Scripturally’ with “no” risks and “no” condemnation as per Verses below where one cannot be a plant which is “Uprooted” if one obeys “God’s New Testament Commands” as Christ Himself Revealed this Context Earlier in His Own Most Blessed Words (I repeat in full):
“… These are spots in your LOVE FEASTS, while THEY FEAST WITH YOU without fear, SERVING ONLY THEMSELVES. They are clouds without water, carried about by the winds; late autumn trees WITHOUT FRUIT, TWICE DEAD, pulled up by the roots; … But you, beloved, REMEMBER THE WORDS which were spoken before by the APOSTLES OF OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST …” (Jude 1:12, 17 NKJV)
“… 3He answered and said to them, “Why do you also TRANSGRESS THE COMMANDMENT OF GOD BECAUSE OF YOUR TRADITION? … 8‘These people [c]draw near to Me with their mouth, And honor Me with their lips, But their heart is far from Me. 9And in vain they worship Me, TEACHING AS DOCTRINES the COMMANDMENTS OF MEN.’ ” … [13But He answered and said,] “Every plant which My heavenly Father has NOT PLANTED WILL BE UPROOTED. 14LET THEM ALONE. They are blind leaders of the blind. And if the blind leads the blind, both will fall into a ditch.” … ” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 15:3, 8 – 9, 13 – 14, NKJV)
To be on the ‘Safe Side Scripturally’, Always please ask: ‘… If I obey this Command, which New Testament Command am I Obeying” …’ to be on the safe side of not being deceived into the ‘commandments of men’ instead of the ‘Commandments of God only’ that are “Written” in the “Bible”.
Peace to you
False Prophets Identification – Safe Route Scripturally – Works of Mercy Mystery
Source Post:
https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=10160883878252784&id=651792783
If you love people, please teach them the Truth not by what topics we want to connect with Verses but rather just stating the Topics which Christ or the Bible Speaks when it quotes a Verse.
For example, when quoting about ‘False Prophets’, instead of attacking by unrelated or possible doctrinal errors which you think is true, why not please state Luke 6:26 (Verse next & in image too) to the Description Christ gave with it as follows:
“… 24“But WOE TO YOU WHO ARE RICH,
For you have received your consolation.
25WOE TO YOU WHO ARE FULL,
For you shall hunger.
WOE TO YOU WHO LAUGH NOW,
For you shall mourn and weep.
26WOE [F]TO YOU WHEN [G]ALL MEN SPEAK WELL OF YOU, For so did their fathers to the FALSE PROPHETS. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 6:24 – 26, NKJV)
In other words, ‘False Prophets’ will teach opposites to what Christ Literally Said such as:
“… Blessed are YOU WHO ARE RICH, … Blessed are YOU WHO ARE FULL, … Blessed are YOU WHO LAUGH NOW, … Blessed are you WHEN [G]ALL MEN SPEAK WELL OF YOU …” – False Prophets
Christ Connected His Identification of the ‘False Prophets’ directly to the WOES to the RICH, FULL, LAUGHING NOW and THOSE WHO ALL MEN SPEAK WELL OFF. So Preaching any one of these type of messages can be a sure sign of a ‘False Prophet’.
So the ‘Safe Route Scripturally’ is to avoid such Preaching and Words and Preach instead what Christ Spoke in these Verses.
Conclusion
The only Rich who are Blessed to Inherit the Kingdom are those who do these four things “richly” as well as that’s “God’s Will” for them according to Verse below (in 1 Timothy 6:17 – 19):
i) DO GOOD,
ii) that they be RICH IN GOOD WORKS,
iii) READY TO GIVE,
iv) WILLING TO SHARE,
“… 17COMMAND THOSE WHO ARE RICH in this present age not to be haughty, nor to trust in uncertain riches but in the living God, who gives us richly all things to enjoy. 18Let THEM DO GOOD, that they be RICH IN GOOD WORKS, READY TO GIVE, WILLING TO SHARE, 19storing up for themselves a good foundation for the time to come, that THEY MAY LAY HOLD ON ETERNAL LIFE. …” (1 Timothy 6:17 – 19, NKJV)
Please notice that it’s Holy Scripture which ties up the context of “… 18Let THEM DO GOOD, that they be RICH IN GOOD WORKS, READY TO GIVE, WILLING TO SHARE …” To “… that THEY MAY LAY HOLD ON ETERNAL LIFE. …”. Can you see it as it is Written?
Example: If any of the rich ended up in Hell because you didn’t warn them to do these, will you be saved too? No point in Preaching Hell if you didn’t warn them of their lifestyle sins which could lead them there where such faith is disqualified due to “not” having the right “Works of Faith” as Blessed Apostle St. James remarked in his inspired letter (Bible Verses) as follows whilst discussing this same Context as follows, to quote:
“… Therefore, to him who knows to do good and does not do it, to him it is sin. …” (James 4:17, NKJV)
“… 1Come now, YOU RICH, weep and howl for your miseries that are coming upon you! 2Your riches are corrupted, and your garments are moth-eaten. 3Your GOLD and SILVER are corroded, and their corrosion will be a witness against you and will EAT YOUR FLESH LIKE FIRE. You have HEAPED up TREASURE in the LAST DAYS. … 5You have lived on the earth in PLEASURE and LUXURY; you have fattened your hearts as in a DAY of SLAUGHTER. …” – Blessed St. James the Just, First Bishop of Jerusalem (James 5:1 – 3, 5, NKJV)
Yes, he particularly points that a “Faith” without the “Works of Mercy” is “Dead”:
“… 8If you really FULFILL THE ROYAL LAW according to the SCRIPTURE, “You shall LOVE YOUR NEIGHBOR AS YOURSELF,” YOU DO WELL … 13For JUDGMENT IS WITHOUT MERCY to the one who has SHOWN NO MERCY. MERCY TRIUMPHS OVER JUDGMENT. 14What does it profit, my brethren, if someone says he HAS FAITH BUT DOES NOT HAVE WORKS? CAN FAITH SAVE HIM? 15If a brother or sister is naked and destitute of daily food, 16and 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? 17Thus also FAITH BY ITSELF, IF IT DOES NOT HAVE WORKS, IS DEAD. …” (James 2:8, 13 – 17, NKJV)
I repeat, he particularly points that a “Faith” without the “Works of Mercy” is “Dead” (please read this part ‘carefully’ and slowly again).
When Apostle St. James wrote this Bible Verse, he doesn’t speak about religious works of church gathering or praying or singing etc. (Which can be helpful) but clearly points to the ABSENCE of WORKS OF MERCY only for a FAITH to be DEAD as he writes, “… but you do not give them the things which are needed for the body, what does it profit? 17Thus also FAITH BY ITSELF, IF IT DOES NOT HAVE WORKS, IS DEAD. …”.
So, are we Preaching the Correct Doctrine regarding the ‘absence of which Work’ (namely the absence of the “Works of Mercy”) according to these Bible Verses, when we say ‘Faith without Works is Dead’?
It is toward such a faith which is missing the “Works of Mercy” that he writes “… if someone says he HAS FAITH BUT DOES NOT HAVE WORKS? CAN FAITH SAVE HIM? …”. Can you please really see it as it is Written?
A famous quote rings that there are two types of blindness namely:
1. Not seeing what is Written
For example: not seeing that the “Works of Faith” that “James” meant here is Referring to the Context of “Works of Mercy” only as he quotes no other works at all in these Verses.
2. Seeing something that is not Written
For example: Some Preachers will say that the “Works of Faith” is “paying tithes, Church attendance, singing, praying etc.” but the Bible Verses here mention “none” of it. I am not saying these cannot be works of faith but it’s “not” the “Works of Faith” mentioned in these Verses by which a Faith can Shipwreck. If other Verses may say that, you may quote it but it’s not from these set of Verses. Please don’t misquote me ya.
One thing is for sure: you will never go wrong Preaching Verses as it is Written ‘to the Topic which it was Written about’. A lot of preaching sometimes links Verses to ‘the Topics which it was NOT Written about’ and in such cases, they could be right or wrong (let God Decide) but I would at most state it as a possibility only.
In contrast, the ‘Safe Route Scripturally’ is to Preach the Verses to the Original Topic it was addressed to.
P/S: Sola Scriptura
Related Verses:
“… . 19EVERY TREE that does NOT BEAR GOOD FRUIT is CUT DOWN AND THROWN INTO THE FIRE. 20Therefore by their fruits you will know them. 21“Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father in heaven. 22MANY will say to Me in that day, ‘Lord, Lord, have we NOT PROPHESIED in Your name, CAST OUT DEMONS in Your name, and DONE MANY WONDERS in Your name?’ 23And then I will declare to them, ‘I NEVER KNEW YOU; depart from Me, you who practice LAWLESSNESS! 24“Therefore WHOEVER HEARS THESE SAYINGS OF MINE, and DOES THEM, I will liken him to a WISE MAN who BUILT HIS HOUSE ON THE ROCK: …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 7:19 – 24, NKJV)
“… For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision nor uncircumcision avails anything, but FAITH WORKING THROUGH LOVE. … For ALL THE LAW IS FULFILLED in one word, even in this: “YOU SHALL LOVE YOUR NEIGHBOR AS YOURSELF.” …” (Galatians 5:6, 14, NKJV)
The phrase “… FAITH WORKING THROUGH LOVE …” = ‘Faith with Charity Doctrine’ because ‘Charity Doctrine is Love in Action’, Verses:
“… 16By this WE KNOW LOVE, because He laid down His life for us. And we also OUGHT TO LAY DOWN OUR LIVES FOR THE BRETHREN. 17But WHOEVER HAS THIS WORLD’S GOODS, and SEES HIS BROTHER IN NEED, AND SHUTS UP HIS HEART FROM HIM, HOW DOES THE LOVE OF GOD ABIDE IN HIM? 18My little children, let us NOT LOVE IN WORD or IN TONGUE, BUT IN DEED AND IN TRUTH …” (1 John 3:16 – 18, NKJV)
Christ Called the Pharisees of Old as “FOOLS” for not knowing this ‘Almsgiving Doctrine’ which can only be discerned Spiritually before these Verses were Written, to quote:
“… 39And the Lord said unto him, Now do ye Pharisees make clean the outside of the cup and the platter; but your inward part is full of ravening and wickedness. 40Ye fools, did not he that made that which is without make that which is within also? 41But rather give alms of such things as ye have; and, behold, all things are clean unto you. …” (Luke 111:39 – 41, KJV)
In another translation (focusing on the Almsgiving Part He Commanded for the Doctrine of Sanctification of ‘All’ both Inside and Outside Holiness to be Complete):
“… But WHAT YE HAVE GIVE YE AS ALMS, and, lo, ALL THINGS are CLEAN TO YOU. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Young’s Literal Translation, Luke 11:41, YLT)
“… But now as for WHAT IS INSIDE YOU–be GENEROUS TO THE POOR, and EVERYTHING WILL BE CLEAN FOR YOU. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 11:41, NIV)
These Bible Verses above may explain why Christ Said it is hard for a faithful, law(Torah) keeping Rich Man to enter Heaven, Verses:
“… 20The young man said to Him, “All these things I have kept [g]from my youth. What do I STILL LACK?” 21JESUS said to him, “IF you want to be PERFECT, go, SELL what YOU HAVE and GIVE to the POOR, and YOU WILL HAVE TREASURE IN HEAVEN; and come, FOLLOW ME.” 22But when the young man heard that saying, he went away SORROWFUL, for he had GREAT POSSESSIONS.23Then JESUS said to His disciples, “Assuredly, I say to you that it is HARD for a RICH MAN TO ENTER THE KINGDOM OF HEAVEN. 24And AGAIN I say to you, it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God. …” (Matthew 19:20 – 24, NKJV)
Please notice that the rich man above could keep “Holiness Commands & Ten Commandments without Christ” as Christ Doesn’t Say that he lacked in that part. However he “lacked” only this toward “Perfection” which is to “follow Christ” and “Give to the Poor”. Can you see it? This means to “Give to the Poor and Follow Christ” cannot be Done without the EMPOWERING OF GOD toward the CHOSEN.
Also, the Bible doesn’t explicitly Explain the differences between the Thirty, Sixty Vs Hundredfold ones but the Verses below is the only set where Christ Himself Reveals the Secret of the “HUNDREDFOLD” ones as He Continues from the above as follows, same Topic, same Context, Consecutive Verses in the same Chapter (please notice the Word “HUNDREDFOLD” carefully in Matthew 19:29 below):
“… 27Then Peter answered and said to Him, “See, we have LEFT ALL and FOLLOWED YOU. Therefore what shall we have?” 28So Jesus said to them, “Assuredly I say to you, that in the REGENERATION, when the Son of Man sits on the throne of His glory, you who have followed Me will also sit on twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel. 29And EVERYONE who has LEFT HOUSES or brothers or sisters or father or mother or WIFE or children or LANDS, for MY NAME’S SAKE, shall RECEIVE a HUNDREDFOLD, and INHERIT ETERNAL LIFE. 30But MANY who are FIRST will be LAST, and the LAST FIRST.” (Matthew 19:27 – 30, NKJV)
Peace to you
Kings of Hospitality from the Old Testament – Blessed Abraham, Blessed Job and beyond
Source Post:
https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=10160884268282784&id=651792783
Question (Re-phrased)
Abraham, Job and others were rich. If the write-up on post below is true, wouldn’t they be in trouble?
https://www.facebook.com/651792783/posts/10160883878252784/
In short they fulfilled God’s Will in 1 Timothy 6:17 – 19 in relative Measure perfectly.
Reply
1) Blessed Abraham – Father of Hospitality
A lot of Preachers like to quote Blessed Patriarch Abraham as an example for “blessings”. But Few quote him in “full” especially the reason why God Blessed him so much in so many ways which is because he is EXTREMELY HOSPITABLE and a GIVER to STRANGERS.
Example: It is well known by Bible Scholars that the quote in Hebrews 13:2 regarding “entertaining angels unknowingly via Acts of hospitality and kindness” was Done by Blessed Patriarch Abraham himself.
He was “not” average in hospitality but extreme as the Bible Verses below clearly describe that he “RAN” and “HASTENED” to prepare the “MEAL” for the “STRANGERS” (even ‘before’ he knew that they were angels) meaning that ‘he was always waiting by his doorstep or tent to SHOW HOSPITALITY by say COOKING a MEAL for STRANGERS’, Verses:
“… 1Then the Lord appeared to him by the terebinth trees of Mamre, as he was sitting in the tent door in the heat of the day. 2So he lifted his eyes and looked, and behold, three men were standing by him; and when he saw them, HE RAN from the tent door to meet them, and bowed himself to the ground, 3and said, “My Lord, if I have now found favor in Your sight, do not pass on by Your servant. 4Please let a LITTLE WATER be brought, and wash your feet, and REST YOURSELVES under the tree. 5And I will BRING A MORSEL OF BREAD, that you may REFRESH YOUR HEARTS. After that you may pass by, inasmuch as you have come to your servant.” They said, “Do as you have said.” 6So ABRAHAM HURRIED into the tent to Sarah and said, “QUICKLY, make ready THREE MEASURES OF FINE MEAL; knead it and MAKE CAKES.” 7And Abraham RAN to the HERD, took a TENDER AND GOOD CALF, gave it to a young man, and he HASTENED to PREPARE IT. 8So he took BUTTER and MILK and the CALF which he had PREPARED, and SET IT BEFORE THEM; and he STOOD by them under the tree as THEY ATE. …” (Genesis 18:1 – 8, NKJV)
Some scholars noted that Blessed Abraham did “not” even eat such a wonderful meal them but “stood” by (not seated) implying that he was ready to ‘serve them as they ate’.
Conclusion
Please take note ‘carefully’ that Blessed Patriarch Abraham did “not” behave hospitable like the above so that ‘he can claim blessings later’. He didn’t even know that the Lord and Angels were present and were about to Give him the “Great Promise”. In other words, Blessed Patriarch Abraham was ‘naturally’ a ‘Giver’ like that and the Bible is clearly showing ‘why’ he was ‘Chosen of God’ one of it being due to ‘his great hospitality’. This is different from us who try to quote Blessed Abraham and emulate him and then try to claim ‘blessings’ or ‘money blessings on earth’ to become rich. Can you see it? It’s not the same because we are ‘doing it insincerely hoping for blessings in return’. Blessed Patriarch Abraham Fulfills this Verse Majestically:
“… do good, and lend, hoping for nothing in return; …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 6:35, NKJV)
Here are some links discussing this ‘Hospitality of Abraham’ Context:
i) Sons of Abraham Mystery – Are we Sons of Abraham?
https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=10159563705212784&id=651792783
ii) Blessed Patriarch Abraham – the First Man who Entertained Christ Himself and the Angels unawares
https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=10159582005092784&id=651792783
iii) Hospitality: Abraham
https://biblehub.com/topical/ttt/h/hospitality–abraham.htm
2) Blessed Job
Yes, it’s “Biblical” and Blessed Job was one of the most Righteous men to walk the earth and was one of God’s Favourite and though he was rich he was “full of the Charity Doctrine”, Verses:
“… 16“If I have kept the POOR from their desire,
Or caused the eyes of the WIDOW to fail,
17Or EATEN MY MORSEL BY MYSELF,
So that the FATHERLESS could not eat of it
18(But from my youth I REARED HIM AS A FATHER,
And from my mother’s womb I GUIDED [D]THE WIDOW);
19If I have seen ANYONE PERISH FOR LACK OF CLOTHING,
Or ANY POOR MAN WITHOUT COVERING;
20If his [e]heart has not blessed me,
And if he was not WARMED WITH THE FLEECE OF MY SHEEP;
21If I have RAISED MY HAND AGAINST THE FATHERLESS,
When I saw I had help in the gate;
22Then let my arm fall from my shoulder,
Let my arm be torn from the socket.
23For destruction from God is a terror to me,
And because of His magnificence I cannot endure. …” (Job 31:16 – 23, NKJV)
This is how God Responded in the End toward Blessed Job despite his “Cacophonous” words of self exaltation of his good works in Bible Verses above, to quote:
“… 7And so it was, after the Lord had spoken these words to Job, that the Lord said to Eliphaz the Temanite, “My wrath is aroused against you and your two friends, for you have not spoken of Me what is right, as My servant Job has. 8Now therefore, take for yourselves seven bulls and seven rams, go to My servant Job, and offer up for yourselves a burnt offering; and My servant Job shall pray for you. For I will accept [b]him, lest I deal with you according to your folly; because you have not spoken of Me what is right, as My servant Job has.” …” (Job 42:7 – 9, NKJV)
3) The Rest who were Rich Old Testament Faithful were likewise Generous to the Poor living the Charity Doctrine Lifestyle without which they would “not” have known God as per Verse below where some is recorded in Scripture while others not recorded but may be inferred by the way God Speaks in Verses below itself:
“… 15“Do you become a king because you are competing in cedar? Did your father not eat and drink And DO JUSTICE AND RIGHTEOUSNESS? Then it was well for him. 16“HE PLED THE CAUSE OF THE AFFLICTED and THE POOR, then it was well. IS THAT NOT WHAT IT MEANS TO KNOW ME?” DECLARES THE LORD. 17“But your eyes and your heart Are intent only upon your own dishonest gain, And on shedding innocent blood, And on practicing oppression and extortion.” … And YOU WILL SEEK ME AND FIND ME when YOU SEARCH FOR ME WITH ALL YOUR HEART. …” (Jeremiah 22:15 – 17, 29:13, NASB)
Please also consider Proverbs 29:7 as per few translations below:
New International Version
The righteous care about justice for the poor, but the wicked have no such concern.
New Living Translation
The godly care about the rights of the poor; the wicked don’t care at all.
English Standard Version
A righteous man knows the rights of the poor; a wicked man does not understand such knowledge.
Berean Study Bible
The righteous consider the cause of the poor, but the wicked have no regard for such concerns.
King James Bible
The righteous considereth the cause of the poor: but the wicked regardeth not to know it.
New King James Version
The righteous considers the cause of the poor, But the wicked does not understand such knowledge.
New American Standard Bible
The righteous is concerned for the rights of the poor; The wicked does not understand such concern.
Peace to you
Sin Hating Heresy Combating Church that was Unsaved – Why? – Safe Route Scripturally
Source Post:
https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=10160878158747784&id=651792783
1) Introduction
I am not here to tell who is right or wrong but rather point to a ‘Safe Route Scripturally’ with Verses to avoid ourselves to be condemned likewise (May God have Mercy).
Most Christians assume that these two “Works” are sufficient for Salvation in the “Faith of Christ”:
i) Keep Away from Sin and Hate it
ii) Combat Heresy
However Christ Personally first Congratulates the Church below for Practicing both the above but then also implies that they are unsaved and still need to repent for abandoning their “first love”? Mysterious, isn’t it?
Verses:
“… 1“To the [a]angel of the church of Ephesus write,
‘These things says He who holds the seven stars in His right hand, who walks in the midst of the seven golden lampstands: 2“I know your works, your labor, your [b]patience, and that you cannot [c]bear those who are evil. And you have tested those who say they are apostles and are not, and have found them liars; 3and you have persevered and have patience, and have labored for My name’s sake and have not become weary. 4NEVERTHELESS I HAVE THIS AGAINST YOU, THAT YOU HAVE LEFT YOUR FIRST LOVE. 5Remember therefore from where YOU HAVE FALLEN; REPENT and DO THE FIRST WORKS, or else I will come to you quickly and remove your lampstand from its place—UNLESS YOU REPENT. 6But this you have, that you hate the deeds of the Nicolaitans, which I also hate. 7“He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. To him who overcomes I will give to eat from the tree of life, which is in the midst of the Paradise of God.” ’ …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Revelation 2:1 – 7, NKJV)
Note: The NKJV Translation gives this Church at Ephesus the title “… THE LOVELESS CHURCH …” at the start of this chapter.
Comments:
1) This Church correctly identified False Teachers and Evil persons but yet was “unsaved”
“… 2“I know your works, your labor, your [b]patience, and that you cannot [c]bear those who are evil. And you have tested those who say they are apostles and are not, and have found them liars; …” (Revelation 2:2, NKJV)
This means you can be “unsaved” and yet have the ability to identify ‘false teachers and evil correctly’.
2) This Church laboured for God in Doing Ministry but yet was “unsaved”
“… 3and you have persevered and have patience, and have labored for My name’s sake and have not become weary …” (Revelation 2:3, NKJV)
Christ doesn’t Say that they didn’t labour for Him or it was a fake labour but strangely acknowledges their “Ministry Work” was “for His Name Sake” but yet they were “unsaved”.
3) This Church didn’t Practice Sin and hated the Doctrine of Nicolaitians but yet was “unsaved”
“… 6But this you have, that you hate the deeds of the Nicolaitans, which I also hate. …” (Revelation 2:6, NKJV)
For comparison to understand the ‘Doctrine of Nicolaitians’:
“… 14But I have a few things against you, because you have there those who hold the doctrine of Balaam, who taught Balak to put a stumbling block before the children of Israel, to eat things sacrificed to idols, and to commit sexual immorality. 15Thus you also have those who hold the doctrine of the Nicolaitans, [g]which thing I hate. …” (Revelation 2:14 – 15, NKJV)
Example Church History Quote regarding this ‘Doctrine of Nicolaitians’:
“… 2. References: Reference to them is frequent in post-apostolic literature. According to Irenaeus (Adv. Haer., i.26, 3; iii.10, 7), followed by Hippolytus (Philos., vii.36), they were founded by Nicolaus, the proselyte of Antioch, who was one of the seven chosen to serve at the tables (Acts 6:5). Irenaeus, as also Clement of Alexandria (Strom., ii.20), Tertullian and others, unite in condemning their practices in terms similar to those of John; and reference is also made to their Gnostic tendencies. …”
Source:
https://biblehub.com/topical/n/nicolaitans.htm
4) How do we know that this Church was “unsaved” despite being right on these ‘Essential Doctrines’?
“… 4NEVERTHELESS I HAVE THIS AGAINST YOU, THAT YOU HAVE LEFT YOUR FIRST LOVE. 5Remember therefore from where YOU HAVE FALLEN; REPENT and DO THE FIRST WORKS, or else I will come to you quickly and remove your lampstand from its place—UNLESS YOU REPENT. …” (Revelation 2:4 – 5, NKJV)
Please notice carefully that Christ Calls them as “Fallen” and need to “Repent” meaning that they are thus clearly “unsaved” because of not doing the “First Works” and for forsaking their “First Love”.
Why? Christ doesn’t point to “sexual immorality or other sins” as He Does with another church in Revelation 2:14 – 15 (quoted above for comparison) but rather points to a Mysterious Reason that they are NOT SAVED DESPITE THEIR FAITH all because THEY HAVE LEFT THEIR “FIRST LOVE” and their “FIRST WORKS”.
So, what could the “First Love” and “First Works” mean? It could mean
i) Possible “First Love” Meaning
Not Doing the Charity Doctrine Acts of Love toward others which was present in the First Church (e.g. Acts 2:44 – 46, Acts 4:32) because God is Looking for “LOVE IN ACTION” with “WORLDLY POSSESSIONS” and not in words only (e.g. Matthew 25:31 – 46, Luke 12:31 – 35, Luke 10:25 – 37, Galatians 5:14, Luke 11:39 – 41, 1 John 3:14 – 18).
“… 29JESUS answered him, “The [k]first of all the commandments is: ‘Hear, O Israel, the Lord our God, the Lord is one. 30And you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your mind, and with all your strength.’ [l]This is the first commandment. 31And the second, like it, is this: ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is NO OTHER COMMANDMENT GREATER THAN THESE.” …” (Mark 12:29 – 31, NKJV)
It’s highly probable that they’re not fulfilling these Greatest Commands to love God and others where our love for God is only as much as we love others in action, Verses:
“… 20If someone says, “I LOVE GOD,” and HATES HIS BROTHER, HE IS A LIAR; for he who does not love his brother whom he has seen, [d]how can he love God whom he has not seen? 21And this commandment we have from Him: that HE WHO LOVES GOD MUST LOVE HIS BROTHER ALSO. …” (1 John 4:20 – 21, NKJV)
“… 17But WHOEVER HAS THIS WORLD’S GOODS, and sees his brother in need, and shuts up his heart from him, HOW DOES THE LOVE OF GOD ABIDE IN HIM? 18My little children, let us NOT LOVE in WORD or in TONGUE, but in DEED and in truth. …” (1 John 3:17 – 18, NKJV)
And/Or
ii) Possible “First Works” Meaning
Not Obeying or following the Apostolic WRITTEN TRADITIONS of the NEW TESTAMENT COMMANDS which were delivered as the “First Works” of the Church, Example Verses:
“… If anyone thinks himself to be a prophet or spiritual, let him acknowledge that the things which I WRITE to you are the COMMANDMENTS OF THE LORD. …” (1 Corinthians 14:37, NKJV)
“… that you may be mindful of the words which were spoken before by the holy prophets, and of the COMMANDMENT of us, the APOSTLES OF THE LORD and SAVIOR, …” (2 Peter 3:2, NKJV)
“… that you may learn in us NOT TO THINK BEYOND WHAT IS WRITTEN, that none of you may be [c]puffed up on behalf of one against the other. … 14I do not write these things to shame you, but as my beloved children I warn you. 15For though you might have ten thousand instructors in Christ, yet you do not have many fathers; for in Christ Jesus I have begotten you through the gospel. 16Therefore I URGE YOU, IMITATE ME. 17For this reason I have sent Timothy to you, who is my beloved and faithful son in the Lord, who will remind you of my ways in Christ, as I TEACH EVERYWHERE IN EVERY CHURCH. …” (1 Corinthians 4:4, 14 – 17, NKJV)
One thing is for sure: Whoever follows these New Testament Commands will never be condemned according to Verse below:
“… 1 IMITATE ME, just as I also IMITATE CHRIST. 2Now I PRAISE YOU, brethren, that you remember me in all things and KEEP THE TRADITIONS just as I delivered them to you. … 16But if anyone seems to be contentious, we have no such custom, nor do the churches of God. … ” (1 Corinthians 11:1 – 2, 11:16, NKJV)
Whomever doesn’t follow it may be right or not (I am not sure, let God Decide) but the verses below can put them at risk:
“… 33For God is not a God of disorder but of peace—as in all the congregations of the Lord’s people …
36Or did the word of God originate with you? Or are you the only people it has reached? 37If anyone thinks they are a PROPHET or otherwise GIFTED BY THE SPIRIT, let them ACKNOWLEDGE that WHAT I AM WRITING to you is the LORD’S COMMAND. 38But if anyone IGNORES THIS, THEY WILL THEMSELVES BE IGNORED. …” (1 Corinthians 14:33, 36 – 38, NIV)
“… For I bear them witness that they have a ZEAL FOR GOD, but NOT ACCORDING TO KNOWLEDGE. …” (Romans 10:2, NKJV)
“… 5And also if anyone competes in athletics, he is NOT CROWNED unless he COMPETES ACCORDING to THE RULES. … 14REMIND THEM OF THESE THINGS, charging them before the Lord not to [d]strive about words to no profit, to the RUIN OF THE HEARERS. … ” (2 Timothy 2:5, 14, NKJV)
Yes, God’s Will is to Encourage with both “GOOD WORD” and “GOOD WORK” based on the “WRITTEN TRADITIONS” in the New Testament Scripture, Verses:
“… 15Therefore, brethren, STAND FAST AND HOLD THE TRADITIONS which you were taught, whether BY WORD OR OUR [H]EPISTLE. 16Now may our Lord Jesus Christ Himself, and our God and Father, who has loved us and given us everlasting consolation and good hope by grace, 17comfort your hearts and [i]establish you in EVERY GOOD WORD AND WORK. …” (2 Thessalonians 2:15 – 17, NKJV)
iii) Ephesians Letter Context
In the letter to the Ephesians, their first Love and first works includes the Context of Understanding that though Good Works does “not” Save them, their “faith in Christ” nevertheless “Predestines” them to do “Good Works”:
“… 8For by GRACE you have been SAVED THROUGH FAITH, and that NOT OF YOURSELVES; it is the GIFT OF GOD, 9NOT OF WORKS, lest anyone should boast. 10For we are His workmanship, CREATED IN CHRIST JESUS for GOOD WORKS, which GOD PREPARED BEFOREHAND that WE SHOULD WALK IN THEM. …” (Ephesians 2:8 – 10, NKJV)
So their lack of “Good Works” and focusing instead of only ‘Condemning heresies’ and ‘pointing out sin’ was not pleasing to Christ. Please take note that if ‘Condemning heresies’ and ‘pointing out sin’ was included in the definition of “First Love” and “First Works”, then Christ would have Said so which He Didn’t.
The Fact that Christ Says they are missing their “First Works” and “First Love” completely while they’re praised for combating heresies and sin, this means that the Definition of “First Works” and “First Love” is independent and does not include combating heresies and sin which are important Works but without the Works of Love such religiousity doesn’t assure Salvation either.
Conclusion
I am “not” Saying that this must be the meaning of “First Works” and “First Love” but it’s “Possible”. Regardless, the ‘Safe Route Scripturally’ would be to follow the Quoted New Testament Verses for which there is “no” condemnation.
The Response below by a Christian by the nickname of “Lionsden” in link below is what I think “leaving your first love” means too:
To quote (not by me):
“… Peace.
The “first love” is the love for all people….not just for those who love us but also including our enemies. It is first and foremost to have love for all people.
Matthew 5:43-48 KJV (43) Ye have heard that it hath been said, Thou shalt love thy neighbour, and hate thine enemy. (44) But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you; (45) That ye may be the children of your Father which is in heaven: for he maketh his sun to rise on the evil and on the good, and sendeth rain on the just and on the unjust. (46) For if ye love them which love you, what reward have ye? do not even the publicans the same?
We must not only have brotherly love but love for ALL people….even those who mistreat us.
(47) And if ye salute your brethren only, what do ye more than others? do not even the publicans so? (48) Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect.
In the case of the church at Ephesus, they failed at having love for the false apostles (their enemies) that they correctly found were not true but liars (the apostles were saying that that they are “sent” by Jesus but were not).
The “first love” is love for ALL people…not just those who love us but also for our enemies. The church at Ephesus did not show love towards the false apostles.
Revelation 2: (4) Nevertheless I have somewhat against thee, because thou hast left thy first love.
Jesus only hated the deeds of the Nicolaitans but did not hate them. The church of Ephesus was doing both: hating the false prophets and hating their deeds. They needed to have love for their enemies even though they were correct in hating their deeds as Jesus did.
Revelation 2:6 KJV (6) But this thou hast, that thou hatest the deeds of the Nicolaitans, which I also hate.
The church at Ephesus was “fallen” and were called to change their minds (repent) and do the “first works”.
Revelation 2: (5) Remember therefore from whence thou art fallen, and repent, and do the first works; or else I will come unto thee quickly, and will remove thy candlestick out of his place, except thou repent.
We find the first works listed in 2 Peter 1.
Do the “first works”:
Add to faith virtue and to virtue knowledge; and to knowledge add temperance; and to temperance add patience; and to patience add godliness; and to godliness add brotherly kindness (have love for our brothers in Christ); and to brotherly kindness add “charity”…that is, love for all people (not just our brothers but also add love even for those who hate us).
We shall never fall if we do these things and they abound in us. The Ephesians had fallen in this and were unproductive in His knowledge. Jesus: “Remember therefore from where you have fallen…”.
2 Peter 1:3-11 KJV (3) According as his divine power hath given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness, through the knowledge of him that hath called us to glory and virtue: (4) Whereby are given unto us exceeding great and precious promises: that by these ye might be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust. (5) And beside this, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue; and to virtue knowledge; (6) And to knowledge temperance; and to temperance patience; and to patience godliness; (7) And to godliness brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness charity.
The Ephesians were “barren” and “unfruitful” in the knowledge of the Lord Jesus Christ(His revelation knowledge) because they did not show love for their enemies (the false apostles).
Even though we may have all knowledge and understand the mysteries of the Kingdom but have not love for all (the first love), we are nothing. Our speaking of the revelation knowledge of the Lord will not have an effect on others if we do not show love towards all people. Our witness shall will be unfruitful as no one will listen to us because of our lack of love (first love).
(8) For if these things be in you, and abound, they make you that ye shall neither be barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.
The Ephesians had forgotten that they were purged from their old sins and were instructed to “remember”: Remember therefore from whence thou art fallen, and repent, and do the first works; or else I will come unto thee quickly, and will remove thy candlestick out of his place, except thou repent.
(9) But he that lacketh these things is blind, and cannot see afar off, and hath forgotten that he was purged from his old sins.
We shall never fall (as the Ephesians did) if we make these “first works” abound in our doing of them….remembering to do them always.
(10) Wherefore the rather, brethren, give diligence to make your calling and election sure: for if ye do these things, ye shall never fall: (11) For so an entrance shall be ministered unto you abundantly into the everlasting kingdom of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.
Our witness to others in His knowledge will be unfruitful if we do not show love toward others (even our enemies). We shall become as a “sounding brass” or a “tinkling cymbal”. No one will listen to the message if we do not have love… the “first love” (love for all people). We will only be just “noise” to them and will not be meaningful and productive in the ears of others.
1 Corinthians 13:1-2 KJV (1) Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, and have not charity, I am become as sounding brass, or a tinkling cymbal. (2) And though I have the gift of prophecy, and understand all mysteries, and all knowledge; and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, and have not charity, I am nothing.
The witness to others (the “candlestick”) is removed out of its place if we do not show love even to our enemies. They will not listen as judgment upon us for our lack of love (the first love for all).
We become unfruitful in having His revealed knowledge as others will not listen because of our lack of love we display to others (our enemies). Without love for all people (including our enemies), we shall be unproductive in the hearing of others in our witnessing for Jesus who reveals the Word of Truth to His people.
Revelation 2:5 KJV (5) Remember therefore from whence thou art fallen, and repent, and do the first works; or else I will come unto thee quickly, and will remove thy candlestick out of his place, except thou repent.
We shall be fruitful if we can overcome. To him that overcomes will He give us to eat of the tree of life….to be fruitful in it.
Revelation 2:7 KJV (7) He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; To him that overcometh will I give to eat of the tree of life, which is in the midst of the paradise of God. …” – By Nickname “LionsDen”
Source:
https://hermeneutics.stackexchange.com/questions/37867/in-revelation-24-to-what-does-first-love-refer
“… 13“Enter by the narrow gate; for wide is the gate and broad is the way that leads to destruction, and there are many who go in by it. 14[c]Because narrow is the gate and [d]DIFFICULT is the way which LEADS TO LIFE, and there are FEW WHO FIND IT. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus (Matthew 7:13 – 14, NKJV)
Peace to you
Mystery of True Judgment – Safe Route Scripturally
Source Post:
https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=10160875008582784&id=651792783
Context Question: For those Keen on Judging, have they Preached and Practiced True Judgment Doctrine according to Scripture?
There are Different Types of Judgment and Context Matters together with “quoting Scripture in full” matters with New Testament Verses cancelling old testament ones. No point in quoting ‘Cancelled Verses’. Yes, Some parts of the Torah passes away and is “not” Eternal but to that Old Testament age/Aeon/Olam only
“… In that He says, “ A NEW COVENANT,” He has MADE THE FIRST OBSOLETE. Now what is becoming obsolete and growing old is ready TO VANISH AWAY. …” (Hebrews 8:13, NKJV)
1) The Judgment Christ Spoke of is “not” the ‘lets cast the stone on the sinner type’ but this which can only be seen if you Quote Verses in full
“… 21Jesus answered and said to them, “I did one work, and you all marvel. 22Moses therefore gave you circumcision (not that it is from Moses, but from the fathers), and you circumcise a man on the Sabbath. 23If a man receives circumcision on the Sabbath, so that the law of Moses should not be broken, are you angry with Me because I made a man completely well on the Sabbath? 24Do not judge according to appearance, but judge with righteous judgment.” …” (John 7:21 – 24, NKJV)
So, the “righteous Judgment” Christ Speaks of is DOING GOOD WORKS even if it BREAKS THE SABBATH. Doing evil works and love of money works is what was not allowed on a Sabbath.
2) In the Torah (Law) the General Context of Judgment was Helping the Poor
“… You shall do no injustice in judgment. You shall not be PARTIAL TO THE POOR, nor honor the person of the mighty. In righteousness you shall judge your neighbor. …” (Leviticus 19:15, NKJV)
3) The Prophets Proved that Showing MERCY and COMPASSION is TRUE JUDGMENT and not killing/hurting/injuring your enemies who are wrong
“… Thus speaketh the LORD of hosts, saying, Execute TRUE JUDGMENT, and SHEW MERCY and COMPASSIONS every man to his brother: 10And OPPRRESS NOT THE WIDOW, NOR THE FATHERLESS, THE STRANGER, NOR THE POOR; and let none of you IMAGINE EVIL AGAINST his brother in your heart. 11But they refused to hearken, and pulled away the shoulder, and stopped their ears, that they should not hear….” (Zechariah 7:9 11, KJV)
So In Verses above, “True Judgment” is these “Charity Doctrine” Acts = “… OPPRRESS NOT THE WIDOW, NOR THE FATHERLESS, THE STRANGER, NOR THE POOR; and let none of you IMAGINE EVIL AGAINST his brother in your heart. …”. Doesn’t sound like Bombing your wrong/evil enemies is meant as True Judgment, right?
4) True Judgment is thus “no Judgment act on earth toward the wrong” but “Mercy & Compassion” (as per Zechariah 7:9) and warning them to “sin no more”:
Example: Christ Used the Phrase “Light of the World” to Identify Himself when He Chose to “not” Judge the ‘women caught in adultery’ & Forgave Freely and told her to ‘sin no more’, Verses:
“… 10When Jesus had raised Himself up [i]and saw no one but the woman, He said to her, “Woman, where are those accusers [j]of yours? Has no one condemned you?” 11She said, “No one, Lord.”
And Jesus said to her, “NEITHER DO I CONDEMN YOU; GO [K]AND SIN NO MORE.” 12Then Jesus spoke to them again, saying, “I am the light of the world. He who follows Me shall not walk in darkness, but have the light of life.” …” (John 8:10 – 12, NKJV)
5) There is “no” Judgment in the Flesh now by executing sentences in God’s Most Holy Name as Christ Demonstrated this
“… 15YOU JUDGE ACCORDING TO THE FLESH; I JUDGE NO ONE. 16And yet if I do judge, My judgment is true; for I am not alone, but I am with the Father who sent Me. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (John 8:15 – 16, NKJV)
We know that Christ Didn’t Judge those Pharisees beyond words warning them that they will forfeit inheriting the Kingdom unless they repent. Christ didn’t boycott them nor start a riot or change their religious leadership etc. proving “no” Judgment act on earth is needed as discussed in an earlier post in link below:
https://www.facebook.com/651792783/posts/10160874280412784/
Conclusion
Similarly, St. John the Baptist’s “Judgment Preaching” was only in “words” mentioning “which sin was wrong” (without anything more than that such as “no” secret plans to topple Herod the evil person or to injure him on earth, cause a ‘justice riot’ or ‘political riot to remove evil’ or equivalent) agreeing with Christ’s Most Blessed COMMAND to “Love your enemies” instead of ‘Judge/Hurt/Injure your enemies’.
Example: Christ Commanded to Love our Enemies and not hate them as per the Torah Verse which He Cancelled. This means that the phase “His Words” will “not” pass away refers to the “Love your enemies” part and not the Judgment ‘hate your enemy’ verse below:
“… 19then you shall do to him as he thought to have done to his brother; so you SHALL PUT AWAY THE EVIL FROM AMONG YOU. 20And those who remain shall hear and fear, and hereafter they shall not again commit such evil among you. 21Your eye shall not pity: life shall be for life, EYE FOR EYE, tooth for tooth, hand for hand, foot for foot. …” (Deuteronomy 19:19 – 21, NKJV)
This Cancellation in full:
“…38“YOU HAVE HEARD THAT IT WAS SAID, ‘An EYE FOR AN EYE and a tooth for a tooth.’ 39But I TELL YOU NOT TO RESIST AN EVIL PERSON. But whoever slaps you on your right cheek, turn the other to him also. 40If anyone wants to sue you and TAKE AWAY YOUR TUNIC, LET HIM HAVE YOUR CLOAK ALSO. 41And whoever compels you to go one mile, go with him two. 42GIVE to him who asks you, and from him WHO WANTS TO BORROW from you DO NOT TURN AWAY. 43“You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ 44[o]But I SAY TO YOU, LOVE YOUR ENEMIES, … 47And if you greet your [p]brethren only, WHAT DO YOU DO MORE THAN OTHERS? …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 5:38 – 44, 47, NKJV)
So, whoever tried to “rebuild the Torah (Law) parts which Christ Has Personally Cancelled for the New Testament” may end up being “Transgressors” as trying to be ‘justified by the Law by Practicing Deuteronomy 19:19 – 21 type of Judgment’ instead of Christ’s Cancellation of that so clearly in His Own Words in Matthew 5:38 – 48 above:
“… 16knowing that a man is not [i]justified by the works of the law but by faith in Jesus Christ, even we have believed in Christ Jesus, that we might be justified by faith in Christ and NOT BY THE WORKS OF THE LAW; for by the works of the law no flesh shall be justified.17“But if, while we seek to be justified by Christ, we ourselves also are found sinners, is Christ therefore a minister of sin? Certainly not! 18For if I BUILD AGAIN THOSE things which I DESTROYED, I MAKE MYSELF A TRANSGRESSOR. …” (Galatians 2:16 – 18, NKJV)
What is not the works of the Law is Whatever Christ Commanded in the New Testament Verses such as the “Charity Doctrine” (e.g. Matthew 25:31 – 46, Luke 12:31 – 35, Luke 10:25 – 37, Galatians 5:14, Luke 11:39 – 41) which are all thus WORKS OF MERCY against which there is “no” Law being the “Fruits of the Spirit” Manifested in Action (e.g. Galatians 5:22 – 23, 1 John 3:14 – 18).
Please don’t be deceived. Also “Judgment” is “not” one of the “Fruits of the Spirit” but the Acts of the Charity Doctrine are such as it encompasses “Goodness, love, long-suffering, gentleness and Kindness”.
“… 22But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23[g]gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no law. …” (Galatians 5:22 – 23, NKJV)
The only Judgment allowed in the New Testament is ‘Warn them of sin’ but don’t judge them for it but rather execute “True Judgment” which is to “Forgive by showing MERCY and COMPASSION” instead, please allow me to repeat:
“… Thus speaketh the LORD of hosts, saying, Execute TRUE JUDGMENT, and SHEW MERCY AND COMPASSIONS every man to his brother: …” (Zechariah 7:9, KJV)
Note: “Mercy” is for those who are “wrong doctrinally or in sin”.
In Verses below Christ Says that “… I desire Mercy, not Sacrifice …” includes the Context of “not” keeping the Sabbath is acceptable if “… you are doing Good …”, Verses:
“… 5Or HAVE YOU NOT READ IN THE LAW that ON THE SABBATH THE PRIESTS IN THE TEMPLE [A]PROFANE THE SABBATH, and ARE BLAMELESS? 6Yet I say to you that in this place there is One greater than the temple. 7But if you had known what this means, ‘I DESIRE MERCY AND NOT SACRIFICE,’ you would not have condemned the guiltless. 8For the SON OF MAN IS LORD [B]EVEN OF THE SABBATH.” 9Now when He had departed from there, He went into their synagogue. 10And behold, there was a man who had a withered hand. And they asked Him, saying, “IS IT LAWFUL TO HEAL ON THE SABBATH?”—that they might accuse Him.
11Then He said to them, “What man is there among you who has one sheep, and if it falls into a pit on the Sabbath, will not lay hold of it and lift it out? 12Of how much more value then is a man than a sheep? THEREFORE IT IS LAWFUL TO DO GOOD ON THE SABBATH.” 13Then He said to the man, “Stretch out your hand.” And he stretched it out, and it was restored as whole as the other. 14Then the Pharisees went out and plotted against Him, how they might destroy Him. …” (Matthew 12:5 – 14, NKJV)
Please notice carefully that it’s Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ Who Declares this part “… 5Or HAVE YOU NOT READ IN THE LAW that ON THE SABBATH THE PRIESTS IN THE TEMPLE [A]PROFANE THE SABBATH, and ARE BLAMELESS? …” which means that you can break the Sabbath and still be blameless if you believe in Christ as the Lord of the Sabbath and do Good focusing on the “Mercy” part instead of the “Sacrifice” of keeping the Sabbath. Perhaps that’s why Blessed Apostle St. Paul wrote in Verse below that Gentile Believers cannot be judged for “Sabbaths” even because the “Lord of the Sabbath” declares them “Blameless” likewise for “Mercy”, Verse:
“… 16So let NO ONE JUDGE YOU in food or in drink, or regarding a festival or a new moon or SABBATHS, 17which are a shadow of things to come, but the substance is of Christ. …” (Colossians 2:16 – 17, NKJV)
So the type of “True Judgment” by which one “knows God” is not the killing/hurting of enemies but in Practicing the Charity Doctrine even as God Spoke via Blessed Prophet Jeremiah to the “King of Judah” in Verses below:
“… 15“Do you become a king because you are competing in cedar? Did your father not eat and drink And DO JUSTICE AND RIGHTEOUSNESS? Then it was well for him. 16“HE PLED THE CAUSE OF THE AFFLICTED and THE POOR, then it was well. IS THAT NOT WHAT IT MEANS TO KNOW ME?” DECLARES THE LORD. 17“But your eyes and your heart Are intent only upon your own dishonest gain, And on shedding innocent blood, And on practicing oppression and extortion.” … And YOU WILL SEEK ME AND FIND ME when YOU SEARCH FOR ME WITH ALL YOUR HEART. …” (Jeremiah 22:15 – 17, 29:13, NASB)
So the converse of this verse is clearly if the ‘Charity Doctrine’ of “… PLED THE CAUSE OF THE AFFLICTED and THE POOR …” is not present or focused in such a Christianity, they might well “not” know God.
Note: Christ DID NOT SAY ‘hurt your enemies’ NOR ‘Judge your enemies’ NOR ‘kill your enemies’ NOR ‘Injure your enemies’ meaning only LOVE YOUR ENEMIES and NOT RESIST the EVIL PERSON is HIS COMMAND (as per Matthew 5:38 – 48 above) where if WE LOVE HIM, WE OBEY THESE as IT IS WRITTEN:
“… IF YOU LOVE ME, KEEP [Obey] MY COMMANDMENTS. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (John 14:15, NKJV)
So, do we REALLY LOVE CHRIST by OBEYING HIS COMMANDS or ‘make up imaginary commands’ which HE NEVER SAID DIRECTLY?
Peace to you
Judgment Practice now on earth – Safe Route Scripturally
Source Post:
https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=10160874280412784&id=651792783
1) Who to Judge?
As we saw in an earlier post, “New Testament Verses” only allows Judgment toward “Christians who sin” and “not toward Unbelievers” as per link below:
https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=10160871924192784&id=651792783
Why?
A reason is perhaps by living irresponsibly as such, they could influence unbelievers to also think that there’s “no” seriousness against sin in Christianity leading others to perdition. So the Judgment against such Christians is seriously addressed in New Testament Scripture (please see the next point).
In other words, if a Christian preaches against sin rightly and strives to live right as well, then if unbelievers did not believe or if they do continue in sin, at least they cannot point fault at that Christian because he lived relatively well. Thus their sin is purely theirs with “no” influence or lukewarmness caused by the Christian.
2) How to Judge?
Example:
“… 6But WE COMMAND YOU, brethren, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that you WITHDRAW FROM EVERY BROTHER WHO WALKS DISORDERLY and NOT ACCORDING TO THE TRADITION which [a]he received from us. 7For you yourselves know how you ought to follow us, for we were not disorderly among you; 8NOR DID WE EAT ANYONE’S BREAD [B]FREE OF CHARGE, but worked with labor and toil night and day, that we might NOT BE A BURDEN TO ANY OF YOU, 9not because we do not have authority, but to make ourselves an example of how you should follow us. 10For even when we were with you, WE COMMANDED YOU THIS: IF ANYONE WILL NOT WORK, NEITHER SHALL HE EAT. 11For we hear that there are some who walk among you in a disorderly manner, not working at all, but are busybodies. 12Now those who are such we command and [c]exhort through our Lord Jesus Christ that they work in quietness and eat their own bread. 13But as for you, brethren, DO NOT GROW WEARY IN DOING GOOD. 14And if anyone DOES NOT OBEY OUR WORD IN THIS [D]EPISTLE, NOTE THAT PERSON and DO NOT KEEP COMPANY WITH HIM, that he may be ashamed. 15Yet do not count him as an enemy, but [e]admonish him as a brother. …” (2 Thessalonians 3:6 – 15, NKJV)
Please notice some serious Judgment in these Verses toward a “Christian/brother” who “walks disorderly” as follows:
i) It’s a COMMAND and not an option (verse 6).
ii) It’s a COMMAND to only EAT if a CHRISTIAN WORKS (verse 8 – 12).
iii) It is a COMMAND to DO GOOD, i.e. in ‘Action’, which primarily is the Charity Doctrine (verse 13).
iv) It is a COMMAND that if anyone doesn’t obey the EPISTLE (Traditions WRITTEN in this LETTER),we must KEEP AWAY from such FAKE CHRISTIANITY. Yes, a True Christian ought to KEEP AWAY from such ‘fake Christians’ (Verse 14).
3) The Worst Humans are among Christians and not unbelievers
The Bible Verses below clearly Describe the Existence of a ‘Fake Christian’ who is “worse” than an “unbeliever” where the act of ‘not providing financially to one’s family’ is considered as ‘denying the faith’ too, Verses (so that’s how serious God Takes the ‘Charity Doctrine’ of Providing for others beginning with Family – Can you see it?)
“… But if anyone DOES NOT PROVIDE for his own, and especially for those of his household, he has DENIED THE FAITH and is WORSE THAN AN UNBELIEVER. …” (1 Timothy 5:8, NKJV)
These are the type of WORSE than UNBELIEVERS type of CHRISTIANS who will be BEATEN WITH MANY STRIPES as they’re Described by Christ Himself in Verses below for the reason above and others:
“… 46the master of that servant will come on a day when he is not looking for him, and at an hour when he is not aware, and will cut him in two and appoint him HIS PORTION WITH THE UNBELIEVERS. 47And that servant who KNEW HIS MASTER’S WILL, and did not prepare himself or do according to his will, shall be BEATEN WITH MANY STRIPES. But he who DID NOT KNOW, yet committed things deserving of stripes, shall be BEATEN WITH FEW. For EVERYONE to whom MUCH IS GIVEN, from him MUCH WILL BE REQUIRED; and to whom MUCH HAS BEEN COMMITTED, of him they WILL ASK THE MORE. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 12:46 – 48, NKJV)
Note: The phrase “… appoint him HIS PORTION WITH THE UNBELIEVERS …” by Christ above means that these are “not Unbelievers” but are “Christians who are Denied & made to be worse than Unbelievers” by being beaten with “many stripes” type of Judgment. Can you really see what’s Written in Holy Scripture?
4) How about Enemies and others? We help them if they ask for it:
Yes Christ Says to only Give to them if they ask for it (if they request it, conditional) and if not there’s no obligation on our side, Verse:
“… 30GIVE to everyone who asks of you. …” (Luke 6:30, NKJV)
How and what to Give? Money and Earthly Material things to get the “Reward” of “Inheritance to be His Sons” in “Heaven”. These Verses in Full:
“…27“But I say to you who hear: LOVE YOUR ENEMIES, DO GOOD to those who hate you, 28bless those who curse you, and pray for those PRAY FOR THOSE WHO SPITEFULLY USE YOU. 29To him who strikes you on the one cheek, offer the other also. And from him who takes away your cloak, do not withhold your tunic either. 30GIVE TO EVERYONE WHO ASKS OF YOU. And from him who takes away your goods DO NOT ASK THEM BACK. 31And just as you want men to do to you, you also do to them likewise. 32“But if you love those who love you, what credit is that to you? For even sinners love those who love them. 33And if you do good to those who do good to you, what credit is that to you? For even sinners do the same. 34And if YOU LEND to those from whom you HOPE TO RECEIVE BACK, what credit is that to you? For even sinners lend to sinners to receive as much back. 35But LOVE YOUR ENEMIES, DO GOOD, AND LEND, [h]HOPING FOR NOTHING IN RETURN; and your reward will be great, and you will be sons of the Most High. For He is kind to the unthankful and evil. 36Therefore be merciful, just as your Father also is merciful. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 6:27 – 36, NKJV)
“… 38“YOU HAVE HEARD THAT IT WAS SAID, ‘An EYE FOR AN EYE and a tooth for a tooth.’ 39But I TELL YOU NOT TO RESIST AN EVIL PERSON. But whoever slaps you on your right cheek, turn the other to him also. 40If anyone wants to sue you and TAKE AWAY YOUR TUNIC, LET HIM HAVE YOUR CLOAK ALSO. 41And whoever compels you to go one mile, go with him two. 42GIVE to him who asks you, and from him WHO WANTS TO BORROW from you DO NOT TURN AWAY. 43“You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ 44[o]But I SAY TO YOU, LOVE YOUR ENEMIES, … 47And if you greet your [p]brethren only, WHAT DO YOU DO MORE THAN OTHERS? …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 5:38 – 44, 47, NKJV)
5) Who is the Best Persons to Give Help to?
Nothing wrong in receiving help if you’re in old age or couldn’t work anymore and it’s BEST TO HELP (as it’s a COMMAND in Verse below) THOSE WHO LIVED THE CHARITY DOCTRINE in their lives prior to becoming old aged or unable to work (first priority is towards them) WITH CHURCH MONEY, (so, if the CHURCH MONEY is NOT used for providing for them in our midst of such exist, God may Choose to Condemn or Judge us instead so let’s be Wise to Use the MONEY COLLECTED IN HIS NAME for WHAT HE WILLS) as per Verses below:
“… 9Do not let a widow under sixty years old be taken into the number, and not unless she has been the wife of one man, 10WELL REPORTED FOR GOOD WORKS: if she has BROUGHT UP CHILDREN, if SHE HAS LODGED STRANGERS, if she has washed the saints’ feet, if she has RELIEVED THE AFFLICTED, IF SHE HAS DILIGENTLY FOLLOWED EVERY GOOD WORK. 11But [c]refuse the younger widows; for when they have begun to grow wanton against Christ, they desire to marry, 12having condemnation because they have cast off their first [d]faith. …” (1 Timothy 5:9 – 12, NKJV)
Conclusion
This Judgment (2 Thessalonians 3:6 – 15) seems to hold toward any “WRITTEN TRADITIONS” found in New Testament Verses where the Verse below strongly Speaks against anyone being “Spirit-led” (i.e. ‘Gifted by the Spirit or Prophet’) to Speak or Do against Written New Testament Verses & promises an “Being Ignored” (or being Rejected possibly) the same way they chose to “Ignore/Reject these WRITTEN NEW TESTAMENT COMMANDS” (so why take the risk otherwise as some Christianity does?):
“… 36Or did the word of God originate with you? Or are you the only people it has reached? 37If anyone thinks they are a PROPHET or otherwise GIFTED BY THE SPIRIT, let them acknowledge that WHAT I AM WRITING to you is the LORD’S COMMAND. 38But if ANYONE IGNORES THIS, THEY WILL THEMSELVES BE IGNORED. …” (1 Corinthians 14:36 – 38, NIV)
If they are among the “Many” rejected on “that Day” due to “Lawlessness” who did “Miracles/Prophesies/Cast out Demons in His Name’ (as per Matthew 7:21 – 24), then the phrase “… 38But if ANYONE IGNORES THIS, THEY WILL THEMSELVES BE IGNORED. …” (in 1 Corinthians 14:38) above could mean that and it could be considered the Unforgivable ‘Blasphemy of the Holy Spirit’ (Matthew 12:31 – 32) for Quoting the Holy Spirit when He Didn’t Teach them to do contrary to these Written New Testament Verses as the Verse above seems to strongly point against.
It’s not worth the risk and that’s why we prefer to teach believers to be on the safe side of just obeying the Written New Testament Verses as it is Written as that can never be condemned because the Written Word of God Protects you and is a Shield for those who obey it.
Yes, I am not sure if Christians who do against these Written New Testament Commands will be saved or not but one thing I am sure which is this: If you Preach and Practice these New Testament Commands as “it is Written”, even if Suppose for argument Sake God Worked in those who did it differently, you will never be condemned nor get a lesser reward but will in fact get more as “Obedience is better than Sacrifice” (1 Samuel 15:22) as the New Testament Verse below affirms this ‘Safe Route Scripturally’:
“… 5And also if anyone competes in athletics, he is NOT CROWNED unless he COMPETES ACCORDING to THE RULES. … 14REMIND them of THESE THINGS, charging them before the Lord not to [d]strive about words to no profit, to the RUIN OF THE HEARERS. … ” (2 Timothy 2:5, 14, NKJV)
Did you notice than the Bible Calls a person worse than an unbeliever if a Christian doesn’t provide for his family (which most Christians on the surface would consider as a ‘small sin’) in 1 Timothy 5:8? So, please don’t assume these are ‘small things’ as long as we can ‘convert people’ because Actual New Testament Verses or GOD’S WRITTEN WORD seem to pronounce some serious Judgments for seemingly ‘simple Traditions’ if they’re ignored.
Warning: We don’t need to comment on the spirit Inside another Christian (to avoid the Blasphemy of the Holy Spirit if that person Spoke His Words) leaving that Judgment to God Alone as it is Warned in Verses below:
“… 28“Assuredly, I say to you, all sins will be forgiven the sons of men, and whatever blasphemies they may utter; 29but he who BLASPHEMES AGAINST THE HOLY SPIRIT NEVER HAS FORGIVENESS, but is subject to ETERNAL CONDEMNATION”— 30BECAUSE THEY SAID, “HE HAS AN UNCLEAN SPIRIT.” …” (Mark 3:28 – 30, NKJV)
Comment: The ‘Greatest Sin’ of All is in ‘Words’ and ‘Commenting Wrongly’ on the ‘Spirit Inside a Person’ as Verses above clearly describe this Act as the “Unforgivable Blasphemy of the Holy Spirit”. So please don’t comment easily either way and let God Judge as Described in an earlier post in link below to avoid this most serious risk:
https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=10160853112937784&id=651792783
Please Remember that guarding one’s tongue from commenting on things which we are not sure is a safe route for our soul too according to Verse below:
“… Whoever guards his mouth and tongue Keeps his soul from troubles. …” (Proverbs 21:23, NKJV)
My point is this: Better to follow what is WRITTEN as a COMMAND in NEW TESTAMENT VERSES instead of doing against it as the ‘Safe Route Scripturally’ for which there is NO CONDEMNATION at all.
Peace to you
Safe Route Scripturally – True Disciples of Christ – To Judge or to Love?
Source Post:
https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=10160871924192784&id=651792783
1) Christians only judge other Christians and “not” unbelievers
“… 9I wrote to you in my epistle not to [f]keep company with sexually immoral people. 10Yet I certainly did not mean with the sexually immoral people of this world, or with the covetous, or extortioners, or idolaters, since then you would need to go out of the world. 11But now I have written to you not to keep company with anyone named a brother, who is sexually immoral, or covetous, or an idolater, or a reviler, or a drunkard, or an extortioner—not even to eat with such a person. 12For what have I to do with judging those also who are outside? Do you not judge those who are inside? 13But those who are outside God judges. Therefore “put away from yourselves the evil person.” …” (1 Corinthians 5:9 – 13, NKJV)
The “no” judging unbelievers part (repeated from above):
“… I WROTE TO YOU IN MY EPISTLE not to keep company with sexually immoral people. 10Yet I certainly did NOT MEAN with the sexually immoral PEOPLE OF THIS WORLD, or with the covetous, or extortioners, or idolaters, since then you would need to go out of the world. …” (1 Corinthians 5:9 – 10, NKJV)
2) Christians warn unbelievers of the coming Judgment Day of God
“… 10For WE MUST ALL APPEAR BEFORE THE JUDGMENT SEAT OF CHRIST, that each one may RECEIVE THE THINGS DONE IN THE BODY, according to what he has done, WHETHER GOOD OR BAD. 11KNOWING, therefore, the TERROR OF THE LORD, WE PERSUADE MEN; but we are well known to God, and I also trust are well known in your consciences. …” (2 Corinthians 5:10 – 11, NKJV)
Example:
“… Then he said to the multitudes that came out to be baptized by him, “Brood of vipers! Who warned you to flee from the wrath to come? …” (Luke 3:7, NKJV)
The “Wrath to come” is not the 70AD Temple Destruction nor is it any of their Judgmental acts on earth but only a Warning of God’s Judgment on “Judgment Day” during their Resurrection and we warn likewise, Verse:
“… and to wait for His Son from heaven, whom He raised from the dead, even Jesus who delivers us from the wrath to come. …” (1 Thessalonians 1:10, NKJV)
St. John the Baptist’s “Judgment Preaching” was only in “words” mentioning “which sin was wrong” (without anything more than that such as “no” secret plans to topple Herod the evil person or to injure him on earth, cause a ‘justice riot’ or ‘political riot to remove evil’ or equivalent) agreeing with Christ’s Most Blessed COMMAND to “Love your enemies” instead of ‘Judge/Hurt/Injure your enemies’:
“… 38“YOU HAVE HEARD THAT IT WAS SAID, ‘An EYE FOR AN EYE and a tooth for a tooth.’ 39But I TELL YOU NOT TO RESIST AN EVIL PERSON. But whoever slaps you on your right cheek, turn the other to him also. 40If anyone wants to sue you and TAKE AWAY YOUR TUNIC, LET HIM HAVE YOUR CLOAK ALSO. 41And whoever compels you to go one mile, go with him two. 42GIVE to him who asks you, and from him WHO WANTS TO BORROW from you DO NOT TURN AWAY. 43“You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ 44[o]But I SAY TO YOU, LOVE YOUR ENEMIES, … 47And if you greet your [p]brethren only, WHAT DO YOU DO MORE THAN OTHERS? …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 5:38 – 44, 47, NKJV)
Note: Christ DID NOT SAY ‘hurt your enemies’ NOR ‘Judge your enemies’ NOR ‘kill your enemies’ NOR ‘Injure your enemies’ meaning only LOVE YOUR ENEMIES and NOT RESIST the EVIL PERSON is HIS COMMAND (as per Matthew 5:38 – 48 above) where if WE LOVE HIM, WE OBEY THESE as IT IS WRITTEN:
“… IF YOU LOVE ME, KEEP [Obey] MY COMMANDMENTS. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (John 14:15, NKJV)
So, do we REALLY LOVE CHRIST by OBEYING HIS COMMANDS or ‘make up imaginary commands’ which HE NEVER SAID DIRECTLY?
3) Christians Judge themselves
“… 31For IF WE WOULD JUDGE OURSELVES, WE WOULD NOT BE JUDGED. 32But when we are judged, we are chastened by the Lord, that we may not be condemned with the world. …” (1 Corinthians 11:31 – 32, NKJV)
4) Judgment is a Choice not a Command toward Christians to carry it out toward others
“… 1“JUDGE[A] NOT, that YOU BE NOT JUDGED. 2For with what [b]judgment you judge, you will be judged; and with the measure you use, it will be measured back to you. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 7:1 – 2, NKJV)
I will await Judgment Day for God to Decide who was right:
“… For nothing is secret that will not be revealed, nor anything hidden that will not be known and come to light. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 8:17, NKJV)
“… Therefore JUDGE NOTHING BEFORE THE TIME, UNTIL THE LORD COMES, who will both bring to light the hidden things of darkness and reveal the counsels of the hearts. Then each one’s praise will come from God. 6Now these things, brethren, I have figuratively transferred to myself and Apollos for your sakes, that you may learn in us NOT TO THINK BEYOND WHAT IS WRITTEN, that none of you may be [c]puffed up on behalf of one against the other. 7For who [d]MAKES YOU DIFFER FROM ANOTHER? And what do you have that you did not receive? Now if you did indeed receive it, why do you boast as if you had not received it? …” (1 Corinthians 4:5 – 7, NKJV)
Conclusion
The Final Proof of Discipleship is “not” who judges others or is most right but “who loved right”. The “Judgment Day” Verses below doesn’t Say that if you don’t judge you are going to everlasting fire but rather it clearly only Says that if you DIDN’T LOVE IN ACTION with the CHARITY DOCTRINE by “… NOT Feeding the Hungry/Thirsty, NOR Clothe the Naked or NOR welcome the stranger into your home …”, then we might be the candidate for the “EVERLASTING FIRE (or perhaps Aeonian Fire)” (Let God Decide which is it):
“… 31“When the Son of Man comes in His glory, and all the [c]holy angels with Him, then He will sit on the throne of His glory. 32All the nations will be gathered before Him, and He will separate them one from another, as a shepherd divides his sheep from the goats. 33And He will set the sheep on His right hand, but the goats on the left. 34Then the King will say to those on His right hand, ‘Come, you blessed of My Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world: 35for I was hungry and you gave Me food; I was thirsty and you gave Me drink; I was a stranger and you took Me in; 36I was naked and you clothed Me; I was sick and you visited Me; I was in prison and you came to Me.’ 37“Then the righteous will answer Him, saying, ‘Lord, when did we see You hungry and feed You, or thirsty and give You drink? 38When did we see You a stranger and take You in, or naked and clothe You? 39Or when did we see You sick, or in prison, and come to You?’ 40And the King will answer and say to them, ‘Assuredly, I say to you, inasmuch as you did it to one of the least of these My brethren, you did it to Me.’ 41“Then He will also say to those on the left hand, ‘Depart from Me, you cursed, into the everlasting fire prepared for the devil and his angels: 42for I was hungry and you gave Me no food; I was thirsty and you gave Me no drink; 43I was a stranger and you did not take Me in, naked and you did not clothe Me, sick and in prison and you did not visit Me.’ 44“Then they also will answer [d]Him, saying, ‘Lord, when DID WE SEE YOU HUNGRY or THIRSTY OR A STRANGER OR NAKED OR SICK or in PRISON, and did not minister to You?’ 45Then He will answer them, saying, ‘Assuredly, I say to you, inasmuch as YOU DID NOT DO IT to one of the least of these, you DID NOT DO IT TO ME.’ 46And THESE WILL GO AWAY INTO EVERLASTING PUNISHMENT, but the righteous into eternal life.” …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 25:31 – 46, NKJV)
Comment: The Devil knows these Verses and so he tries to deceive people “not” to do the Will of God of the Charity Doctrine so that they get condemned in the End into “Everlasting Punishment” as per Verses above.
Please read the Verses below by Christ carefully again and see that He Doesn’t Say, ‘… If you don’t judge, I am going to Judge you for that …’ but rather to the one who ‘… Chooses not to judge…’ Christ Says, ‘… you won’t be Judged …’, Verses:
“… 1“JUDGE[A] NOT, that YOU BE NOT JUDGED. 2For with what [b]judgment you judge, you will be judged; and with the measure you use, it will be measured back to you. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 7:1 – 2, NKJV)
Please don’t be Deceived spending your life judging instead of Fulfilling God’s Will for the Charity Doctrine which is the True Mark of Discipleship as “Love in Action”, Verse:
“… By this all will know that YOU ARE MY DISCIPLES, if you have LOVE FOR ONE ANOTHER. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (John 13:35, NKJV)
Peace to you
Spiritual Warfare and Doctrine of Sanctification – Safe Route Scripturally
Source Post:
https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=10160859497707784&id=651792783
1) Ephesians 6:12 says it’s not against evil humans literally and 2 Corinthians 10:5 says it’s casting down evil thoughts and arguments which doesn’t exalt God.
2) Doctrine of Sanctification is not just keeping Holy outwardly by abstaining from sin but also inward cleansing via the Charity Doctrine as Christ doesn’t mention any other religious act for it interestingly in Luke 11:41.
3) Christ specifically mentioned about Pharisees being outwardly holy (outside of the dish is clean metaphorically) in Luke 11:39 – 40 and pointed to a secret of cleaning the “inside” of “both evil & greed” by doing “Charity Works/Almsgiving” in Luke 11:41. So that may be the way to do Spiritual Warfare against “evil” in Action via His Charity Doctrine.
Conclusion
“… 39And the Lord said unto him, Now do ye Pharisees make clean the outside of the cup and the platter; but your inward part is full of ravening and wickedness. 40Ye fools, did not he that made that which is without make that which is within also? 41But rather give alms of such things as ye have; and, behold, all things are clean unto you. …” (Luke 111:39 – 41, KJV)
“… And above all things have fervent love for one another, for “LOVE will COVER a MULTITUDE OF SINS.” …”(1 Peter 4:8, NKJV)
No wonder Christ Himself Specifically Commanded this Doctrine of Sanctification for both the “Inside and Outside” as “Almsgiving” or “Charity Doctrine” and nothing else in Verse in Luke 11:41 as per a few translations below:
“… But WHAT YE HAVE GIVE YE AS ALMS, and, lo, ALL THINGS are CLEAN TO YOU. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Young’s Literal Translation, Luke 11:41, YLT)
“… But now as for WHAT IS INSIDE YOU–be GENEROUS TO THE POOR, and EVERYTHING WILL BE CLEAN FOR YOU. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 11:41, NIV)
“… But rather give alms of such things as ye have; and, behold, all things are clean unto you. …” (Luke 11:41, KJV)
“… But rather give alms of such things as you have; then indeed all things are clean to you. …” (Luke 11:41, NKJV)
“… But give that which is within as a charitable gift, and then all things are clean for you. …” (Luke 11:41, NASB)
Please remember that when we Teach Almsgiving we are Teaching what Christ Commanded in Verses above for Sanctification and not the opinions of men.
“… Therefore I say to you, HER SINS, which are MANY, ARE FORGIVEN, for SHE LOVED MUCH. But to whom little is forgiven, the same loves little. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 7:47, NKJV)
Peace to you
Are we Preaching like St. John the Baptist? – Judgment Preaching and Charity Doctrine Preaching Mystery
Source Post:
https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=10160858725102784&id=651792783
Blessed St. John the Baptist is often quoted by legalists, Judaizers and even Judgmental Christianity which kills persecutes and plays out its enemies subtlety or directly thinking they are justified by judging evil on earth instead of Christ’s Perfect Command to “Love your enemies”. They will Quote this Verse to justify their acts:
“… Then he said to the multitudes that came out to be baptized by him, “Brood of vipers! Who warned you to flee from the wrath to come? …” (Luke 3:7, NKJV)
The “Wrath to come” is not the 70AD Temple Destruction nor is it any of their Judgmental acts on earth but only a Warning of God’s Judgment on “Judgment Day” during their Resurrection and we warn likewise, Verse:
“… and to wait for His Son from heaven, whom He raised from the dead, even Jesus who delivers us from the wrath to come. …” (1 Thessalonians 1:10, NKJV)
St. John the Baptist’s “Judgment Preaching” was only in “words” mentioning “which sin was wrong” (without anything more than that such as “no” secret plans to topple Herod the evil person or to injure him on earth, cause a ‘justice riot’ or ‘political riot to remove evil’ or equivalent), Verse:
“… 17For Herod himself had sent and laid hold of John, and bound him in prison for the sake of Herodias, his brother Philip’s wife; for he had married her. 18Because John had said to Herod, “It is not lawful for you to have your brother’s wife.” …” (Mark 6:17 – 18, NKJV)
So likewise, we warn people of sin but do “not” judge them on earth for anything more sticking to ‘Sola New Testament Scriptura’ as it is Written (Covenant by Covenant).
“… Obedience is better than Sacrifice …” (1 Samuel 15:22)
So what St. John the Baptist didn’t do is play politics or economic games to kill his enemies nor to injure his enemies financially or in any way but only warn of God’s Judgment on Resurrection Day.
To quote St. John the Baptist on these Verses and stop loving their enemies to do good to them etc.(e.g. fight against their “Roman oppressors” or the “Pharisees” of that time by killing them or playing them out financially, religiously or economically or secretly in the name of Justice/doing good) is certainly out of context, unbiblical and against Christ’s Most Blessed Words for “Perfection” in Matthew 5:38 – 48 as discussed in earlier posts (example in link below):
https://www.facebook.com/jonathan.ramachandran/posts/10160853112937784
Conclusion
What these Judgmental Christians forgot to quote is that they often forget to preach the “Fruits of Repentance” message of St. John the Baptist which points to the “Charity Doctrine” and “Contentment” instead of their life games of politics toward “Prosperity” & “do no good works” type of theology, Verses (where such truths can only be seen if we quote Verses in “full” and not add what’s not spoken by him):
“… [7Then he said to the multitudes that came out to be baptized by him], “Brood of vipers! Who warned you to flee from the wrath to come? 8Therefore bear FRUITS WORTHY OF REPENTANCE, and do not begin 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. 9And 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.” 10So the people asked him, saying, “What shall we do then?” 11He answered and said to them, “HE WHO HAS TWO TUNICS, let him GIVE TO HIM WHO HAS NONE; and HE WHO HAS FOOD, LET HIM DO LIKEWISE.” 12Then tax collectors also came to be baptized, and said to him, “Teacher, what shall we do?” 13And he said to them, “COLLECT NO MORE THAN WHAT IS APPOINTED FOR YOU.” 14Likewise the soldiers asked him, saying, “And what shall we do?” So he said to them, “DO NOT INTIMIDATE ANYONE or ACCUSE FALSELY, and BE CONTENT WITH YOUR WAGES. …” – Answers by Blessed St. John the Baptist, ForeRunner for Christ (Luke 3:7 – 14, NKJV)
Please notice ‘carefully’ in the above Verses that when mentioning the “rejected trees which ought to be burnt in Fire” (same Context as the Denied Lawless Christians in Matthew 7:13 – 19above) their conversion acts toward “Many” and “Casting out demons, Prophesying and Miracles” did “not” Count at all due to Lawlessness (Matthew 7:20 – 23 earlier) except if one follows “Christ’s Direct Words” (Matthew 7:24 as the Answer to Counter Lawlessness) where St. John the Baptist discussing this same context of ‘trees burnt in fire’ (Matthew 7:19 & Luke 3:9 link) clearly points to the Chief “Fruit Worthy of Repentance” (Luke 3:8) is Pointed First as the Charity Doctrine of literal earthly needs sharing as described as “… What shall we do then?” 11He answered and said to them, “HE WHO HAS TWO TUNICS, let him GIVE TO HIM WHO HAS NONE; and HE WHO HAS FOOD, LET HIM DO LIKEWISE.” …” (in Luke 3:10 – 11).
In other words, St. John the Baptist Speaks Anointedly to Reveal these Simple and Beautiful Truths regarding the “Fruits Worthy of Repentance” (Luke 3:8) to avoid being “Burnt in Fire” (Luke 3:9) only as these aspects in Verses above as nothing else matters as much:
1) Firstly, a life of Charity Doctrine toward meeting the literal needs of others:
“… What shall we do then?” 11He answered and said to them, “HE WHO HAS TWO TUNICS, let him GIVE TO HIM WHO HAS NONE; and HE WHO HAS FOOD, LET HIM DO LIKEWISE.” …” – Blessed St. John the Baptist, ForeRunner for Christ (Luke 3:10 – 11, NKJV)
2) Do not highly price things or take high income especially when you know you don’t deserve it for the work that you do as that’s not being clever in a business sense but a type of oppression of lying & manipulation or racism/exploitation of desperate poor workers of which you may be benefitting from being higher on the economic food chain and that’s “not” God’s Favour as some deceive in Principle of these Verses:
“… 12Then tax collectors also came to be baptized, and said to him, “Teacher, what shall we do?” 13And he said to them, “COLLECT NO MORE THAN WHAT IS APPOINTED FOR YOU.” …” Blessed St. John the Baptist, ForeRunner for Christ (Luke 3:12 – 13, NKJV)
3) There’s “no” Faith for more money/prosperity but only “Contentment” and also no oppressing others as these Verses describe this required fruit of repentance too
“… 14Likewise the soldiers asked him, saying, “And what shall we do?” So he said to them, “DO NOT INTIMIDATE ANYONE or ACCUSE FALSELY, and BE CONTENT WITH YOUR WAGES. …” – Blessed St. John the Baptist, ForeRunner for Christ (Luke 3:14, NKJV)
Note: All Good Tree will have the three Traits of Fruits Worthy of Repentance as the Context of these Bible Verses (“not” opinions of men) clearly Reveals “as it is Written”.
Preaching ‘all of St. John the Baptist’s message’ is very important instead of ‘picking and choosing some parts or adding things which he didn’t say nor do’ because as Blessed Apostle St. John records in his Gospel (below), he writes regarding St. John the Baptist type of Preaching is the “True Witness” for “Christ” by “God”, Verses:
“… 6There was a man sent from God, whose name was John [the Baptist*]. 7This man came for a witness, to bear witness of the Light, that all through him might believe. 8He was not that Light, but was sent to bear witness of that Light. 9That[b] was the true Light which gives light to every man coming into the world. …” (John 1:6 – 9, NKJV)
*[Emphasis Mine]
Please don’t be deceived.
Peace to you
Safe Route Scripturally – Life Focus – Deception Vs Truth
Many Verses about Virtues to Rewards in the “Kingdom to come” to Eternal Treasures in Heavens. So life becomes exciting as we pursue these spiritual things as “it is Written”. Example Post discussing some aspects of these is in links below:
1) Are Charity Works of Eternal Value?
https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=10160849179262784&id=651792783
2) Inheritance of His Kingdom Mystery – Why Serve God?
https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=10160844752077784&id=651792783
On the contrary, the Devil deceives by making us to “hate” each other especially “our enemies” thereby succeeding in either reducing our Rewards (for those saved) or if our hate is terrible enough, we might not be saved at all as per Warning in Verses below:
“… 5And now I plead with you, lady, not as though I wrote a new commandment to you, but that which we have had from the beginning: that WE LOVE ONE ANOTHER. 6THIS IS LOVE, THAT WE WALK ACCORDING TO HIS COMMANDMENTS. THIS IS THE COMMANDMENT, THAT AS YOU HAVE HEARD FROM THE BEGINNING, YOU SHOULD WALK IN IT. 7For many deceivers have gone out into the world who do not confess Jesus Christ as coming in the flesh. This is a deceiver and an antichrist. 8Look to yourselves, that [c]we DO NOT LOSE THOSE THINGS WE WORKED FOR, but that WE MAY RECEIVE A FULL REWARD. …” (2 John 1:5 – 8, NKJV)
Please notice that “Love” is the “Command” which is “His Commandments” as it is Written so clearly in Verse above when discussing this Topic with “nothing else” mentioned.
Please also notice that “His Commandments” are ‘not all the Torah’ as these Verses clearly Contrast:
1) Some parts of the Torah passes away and is “not” Eternal but to that Old Testament age/Aeon/Olam only
“… In that He says, “ A new covenant,” He has made the first obsolete. Now what is becoming obsolete and growing old is ready to vanish away. …” (Hebrews 8:13, NKJV)
2) What matters now is only “His New Testament Commandments” either directly by Him or by His Direct Apostles only as it is Written in Bible Verses
“… If anyone thinks himself to be a prophet or spiritual, let him acknowledge that the things which I WRITE to you are the COMMANDMENTS OF THE LORD. …” (1 Corinthians 14:37, NKJV)
“… that you may be mindful of the words which were spoken before by the holy prophets, and of the COMMANDMENT of us, the APOSTLES OF THE LORD and SAVIOR, …” (2 Peter 3:2, NKJV)
“… 23And then I will declare to them, ‘I NEVER KNEW YOU; depart from Me, you who practice LAWLESSNESS!’ 24“Therefore WHOEVER HEARS THESE SAYINGS OF MINE, and DOES THEM, I will liken him to a WISE MAN who BUILT HIS HOUSE ON THE ROCK: …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 7:23 – 24, NKJV)
3) All Torah is fulfilled in Doing His Love Commands and so nothing is missing
How to Fulfill “all Law (Torah)”?
“… For all the law (Torah) is fulfilled in one word, even in this: “You shall love your neighbor as yourself.” …” (Galatians 5:14, NKJV)
“… Therefore, whatever you want men to do to you, do also to them, for this is the Law (Torah) and the Prophets. …” (Matthew 7:12, NKJV)
“… 29JESUS answered him, “The [k]first of all the commandments is: ‘Hear, O Israel, the Lord our God, the Lord is one. 30And you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your mind, and with all your strength.’ [l]This is the first commandment. 31And the second, like it, is this: ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is no other commandment greater than these.” …” (Mark 12:29 – 31, NKJV)
Yes, even your sins are covered from Judgment if you love:
“… And above all things have fervent love for one another, for “LOVE will COVER a MULTITUDE OF SINS.” …”(1 Peter 4:8, NKJV)
“… Therefore I say to you, HER SINS, which are MANY, ARE FORGIVEN, for SHE LOVED MUCH. But to whom little is forgiven, the same loves little. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 7:47, NKJV)
4) Example: Christ Commanded to Love our Enemies and not hate them as per the Torah Verse which He Cancelled. This means that the phase “His Words” will “not” pass away refers to the “Love your enemies” part and not the Judgment ‘hate your enemy’ verse below:
“… 19then you shall do to him as he thought to have done to his brother; so you SHALL PUT AWAY THE EVIL FROM AMONG YOU. 20And those who remain shall hear and fear, and hereafter they shall not again commit such evil among you. 21Your eye shall not pity: life shall be for life, EYE FOR EYE, tooth for tooth, hand for hand, foot for foot. …” (Deuteronomy 19:19 – 21, NKJV)
This Cancellation in full:
“…38“YOU HAVE HEARD THAT IT WAS SAID, ‘An EYE FOR AN EYE and a tooth for a tooth.’ 39But I TELL YOU NOT TO RESIST AN EVIL PERSON. But whoever slaps you on your right cheek, turn the other to him also. 40If anyone wants to sue you and TAKE AWAY YOUR TUNIC, LET HIM HAVE YOUR CLOAK ALSO. 41And whoever compels you to go one mile, go with him two. 42GIVE to him who asks you, and from him WHO WANTS TO BORROW from you DO NOT TURN AWAY. 43“You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ 44[o]But I SAY TO YOU, LOVE YOUR ENEMIES, … 47And if you greet your [p]brethren only, WHAT DO YOU DO MORE THAN OTHERS? …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 5:38 – 44, 47, NKJV)
“… Heaven and earth will pass away, but MY WORDS WILL BY NO MEANS PASS AWAY. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 24:35, NKJV)
Conclusion
Please don’t waste time obeying Torah parts which are Cancelled or the man-made Commandments which are “not” found in any verse especially the ones which lead you to play politics in daily life, work life, family life, friendship, relationship etc. making such love as “insincere” thinking that you’re playing evil out by returning evil subtlety but in reality you are the one played out losing all the rewards according to these Verses even this:
“… Do not repay evil with evil or insult with insult. On the contrary, repay evil with blessing, because to this you were called so that you may inherit a blessing. …” (1 Peter 3:9, NIV)
Also the phrase “His Words” will not pass away (Matthew 24:35) refers to His Direct “… But I tell you commands …” Especially when it contradicts or cancels the Old Testament Torah’s ‘… you have heard it was said …’ part which is described in some detail in post below:
https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=10160207597472784&id=651792783
Please don’t be Deceived.
Peace to you
Light of the World Mystery – Is Christ’s Light in us?
Source Post:
https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=10160842267157784&id=651792783
Christ Used the Phrase “Light of the World” to Identify Himself when He Chose to “not” Judge the ‘women caught in adultery’ & Forgave Freely and told her to ‘sin no more’, Verses:
“… 10When Jesus had raised Himself up [i]and saw no one but the woman, He said to her, “Woman, where are those accusers [j]of yours? Has no one condemned you?” 11She said, “No one, Lord.”
And Jesus said to her, “Neither do I condemn you; go [k]and sin no more.” 12Then Jesus spoke to them again, saying, “I am the light of the world. He who follows Me shall not walk in darkness, but have the light of life.” …” (John 8:10 – 12, NKJV)
So following Christ as per the above requires us to forgive others and telling them not to sin anymore to “FOLLOW the LIGHT of THE WORLD Himself”. So any ‘judging of others in the flesh’ is ‘not following Christ’ in this. Also, any not warning of the dangers of sin is also not following Christ in this. So that’s why we leave the Judgment to God but Warn people to stay away from sin but if they do sin, we forgive freely without condemning them (as that’s not our business now on earth but between them & God). For example, that’s why we take “no” sides in human wars and all that no matter who is right because we do “not” struggle with “flesh and blood” (other people in any way) as per Ephesians 6:12 & His Kingdom is not on earth at all (John 18:36) but only after He Returns on a White Horse at the End of the Age (Revelation 19 – 20).
Is there more for this Context of being a ‘light of the world’? Yes as Christ Uses it also in Matthew 5:14 – 16 (His Definition is all that matters). Before that, please consider this related verse & argument:
Another Reason why the Charity Doctrine is Important is because if we don’t do the “good” that “we can” while able (by God’s Measure), we are ‘sinning’ & hence are ‘filling ourselves with darkness’, Verses:
“… Therefore, to him who knows to do good and does not do it, to him it is sin. …” (James 4:17, NKJV)
So please be careful of Theologies which doesn’t emphasize on “Doing Good Work” but just claims they’re a sinner and so need to do nothing. That’s not true. What is true is that we need to do Good as that’s God’s Will but we are “not” saved by the Good that we do in the same way that we need to strive for holiness even though we are likewise “not” saved by our holiness.
This Sanctification Fills “God’s Light” within us as Christ Himself Reveals in Verses below:
“… Let YOUR LIGHT SO SHINE before men, that they may see YOUR GOOD WORKS and glorify your Father in heaven. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 5:16, NKJV)
Please take note that Christ defines “the LIGHT” in “let YOUR LIGHT SHINE” before men as “YOUR GOOD WORKS”. Can you see it as it is Written in Verse above?
“… 14“YOU ARE THE LIGHT OF THE WORLD. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden. 15Nor do they light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house. 16Let YOUR LIGHT SO SHINE BEFORE MEN, that they may see YOUR GOOD WORKS and glorify your Father in heaven. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 5:14 – 16, NKJV)
The “Good Works” Spoken of refer primarily the “Charity Doctrine” as the “Judgment Day” Verses Describe below:
“… 31“When the Son of Man comes in His glory, and all the [c]holy angels with Him, then He will sit on the throne of His glory. 32All the nations will be gathered before Him, and He will separate them one from another, as a shepherd divides his sheep from the goats. 33And He will set the sheep on His right hand, but the goats on the left. 34Then the King will say to those on His right hand, ‘Come, you blessed of My Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world: 35for I was hungry and you gave Me food; I was thirsty and you gave Me drink; I was a stranger and you took Me in; 36I was naked and you clothed Me; I was sick and you visited Me; I was in prison and you came to Me.’ 37“Then the righteous will answer Him, saying, ‘Lord, when did we see You hungry and feed You, or thirsty and give You drink? 38When did we see You a stranger and take You in, or naked and clothe You? 39Or when did we see You sick, or in prison, and come to You?’ 40And the King will answer and say to them, ‘Assuredly, I say to you, inasmuch as you did it to one of the least of these My brethren, you did it to Me.’ 41“Then He will also say to those on the left hand, ‘Depart from Me, you cursed, into the everlasting fire prepared for the devil and his angels: 42for I was hungry and you gave Me no food; I was thirsty and you gave Me no drink; 43I was a stranger and you did not take Me in, naked and you did not clothe Me, sick and in prison and you did not visit Me.’ 44“Then they also will answer [d]Him, saying, ‘Lord, when did we see You hungry or thirsty or a stranger or naked or sick or in prison, and did not minister to You?’ 45Then He will answer them, saying, ‘Assuredly, I say to you, inasmuch as you did not do it to one of the least of these, you did not do it to Me.’ 46And these will go away into everlasting punishment, but the righteous into eternal life.” …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 25:31 – 46, NKJV)
Conversions without the “Charity Doctrine” is like political groups (in a religious setting) where they ‘hate’ the other groups thinking that they’re more righteous than the others & are try to ‘save themselves with prosperity’ instead of the “Renunciation” Doctrine Taught in Verses below:
“… So then, none of you can be My disciple who does not give up all his own possessions. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 14:33, NASB)
Christ Himself Warned against such a Christianity as His Example of “Remember Lot’s Wife” points to this Point too as discussed next:
“… 32Remember Lot’s wife. 33Whoever seeks to save his life will lose it, and whoever loses his life will preserve it. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 17:32 – 33, NKJV)
Background: Blessed Righteous Lot did “not” fit it with the People of Sodom who did “not” care about the poor and were busy in seeking and enjoying prosperity and other sins. Verses:
“… Look, this was the iniquity of your sister SODOM: She and her daughter had PRIDE, FULLNESS OF FOOD, and ABUNDANCE OF IDLENESS; NEITHER did she strengthen the hand of the POOR and NEEDY. …” (Ezekiel 16:49, NKJV)
Righteous Lot was different especially since he practiced both “Hospitality and Godliness” which are the opposite of the “sins of Sodom” revealed in Ezekiel 16:49 above.
“… On account of his HOSPITALITY AND GODLINESS, LOT WAS SAVED out of Sodom when all the country around him was punished by means of fire and brimstone, the Lord thus making it manifest that He does not forsake those who hope in Him, but gives up those who depart from Him to punishment and torture. For Lot’s wife, who went forth with him, being of a different mind from himself and not continuing in agreement with him [as to the command which had been given them], was made an example of, so as to be a pillar of salt to this day. This was done that all might know that those who are of a double mind, and who distrust the power of God, bring down judgment on themselves, and become a sign to all succeeding generations. …” ” – Blessed St. Clement of Rome, an Apostolic Father being a direct Disciple of the Blessed Apostle St. Peter (c.35 AD – c. 99 AD, 1 Clement, Chapter 11)
Source: http://www.earlychristianwritings.com/text/1clement-roberts.html
For the “Love of God” which is “Greater than faith” itself is only Found in those sharing “this world’s Goods” too as per Verses below:
“… And now abide FAITH, HOPE, LOVE, these three; but the GREATEST OF THESE IS LOVE. … ” (1 Corinthians 13:13, NKJV)
“… 29JESUS answered him, “The [k]first of all the commandments is: ‘Hear, O Israel, the Lord our God, the Lord is one. 30And you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your mind, and with all your strength.’ [l]This is the first commandment. 31And the second, like it, is this: ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is NO OTHER COMMANDMENT GREATER THAN THESE.” …” (Mark 12:29 – 31, NKJV)
Yes, you cannot fulfill the Greatest Command to Love God via worship, prayer etc. if you “hate your enemies” and all that because the First Greatest Commandment is only Fulfilled by the measure we Fulfill the Second Greatest Commandment to “Love your neighbor as yourself” (and not kill your unbelieving neighbors or play human politics in business & economics to play them out), Verses:
“… And if you do good to those who do good to you, what credit is that to you? For even sinners do the same. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 6:33, NKJV)
“… . 43“You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ 44[o]But I SAY TO YOU, LOVE YOUR ENEMIES, … 47And if you greet your [p]brethren only, WHAT DO YOU DO MORE THAN OTHERS? …” (Matthew 5:39 – 44, 47, NKJV)
or Blessed Luke Records some further details of this ‘Charity Doctrine’ say of ‘Giving Money’ (or equivalently business / helps/borrow/lend) even toward “enemies” as the phrase “… 35But LOVE YOUR ENEMIES, DO GOOD, AND LEND, [h]HOPING FOR NOTHING IN RETURN; …” (in Luke 6:35 below) Reveals as follows:
“…27“But I say to you who hear: LOVE YOUR ENEMIES, DO GOOD to those who hate you, 28bless those who curse you, and pray for those PRAY FOR THOSE WHO SPITEFULLY USE YOU. 29To him who strikes you on the one cheek, offer the other also. And from him who takes away your cloak, do not withhold your tunic either. 30GIVE to everyone who asks of you. And from him who takes away your goods DO NOT ASK THEM BACK. 31And just as you want men to do to you, you also do to them likewise. 32“But if you love those who love you, what credit is that to you? For even sinners love those who love them. 33And if you do good to those who do good to you, what credit is that to you? For even sinners do the same. 34And if YOU LEND to those from whom you HOPE TO RECEIVE BACK, what credit is that to you? For even sinners lend to sinners to receive as much back. 35But LOVE YOUR ENEMIES, DO GOOD, AND LEND, [h]HOPING FOR NOTHING IN RETURN; and your reward will be great, and you will be sons of the Most High. For He is kind to the unthankful and evil. 36Therefore be merciful, just as your Father also is merciful. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 6:27 – 36, NKJV)
How much we “Love God” is Proven in how much we “Love others in Action with this world’s goods”:
“… 20If someone says, “I LOVE GOD,” and HATES HIS BROTHER, HE IS A LIAR; for he who does not love his brother whom he has seen, [d]how can he love God whom he has not seen? 21And this commandment we have from Him: that HE WHO LOVES GOD MUST LOVE HIS BROTHER ALSO. …” (1 John 4:20 – 21, NKJV)
“… . 14We know that we have passed from death to life, because we love the brethren. He who does not love [c]his brother abides in death. 15Whoever hates his brother is a murderer, and you know that NO MURDERER HAS ETERNAL LIFE abiding in him. 16By this we know love, because He laid down His life for us. And we also ought to lay down our lives for the brethren. 17But WHOEVER HAS THIS WORLD’S GOODS, and sees his brother in need, and shuts up his heart from him, HOW DOES THE LOVE OF GOD ABIDE IN HIM? 18My little children, let us NOT LOVE in WORD or in TONGUE, but in DEED and in truth. …” (1 John 3:14 – 18, NKJV)
Here’s a First Christianity Quote Teaching this Same Biblical Truth:
“… The BEGINNING OF LIFE IS FAITH, and THE END IS LOVE. And these two being inseparably connected together, do perfect the man of God; while all other things which are requisite to a holy life follow after them. No man making a profession of faith ought to sin, nor one possessed of love to hate his brother. For He that said, “Thou shalt LOVE THE LORD THY GOD,” said also, “AND THY NEIGHBOUR AS THYSELF.” (Mark 12:30 – 34) Those that profess themselves to be Christ’s are known not only by what they say, but by WHAT THEY PRACTISE. “For the TREE IS KNOWN BY ITS FRUIT.” (Matthew 7:16 – 23) …” – Blessed St. Ignatius, Bishop of Antioch, nicknamed ‘God-Bearing’, An Apostolic Father being the direct Disciple of the Blessed Apostle St. John, Martyr for Christ (c. 35 AD – c. 108 AD, Longer Epistle to the Ephesians, CHAPTER XIV)
Source:
http://www.earlychristianwritings.com/text/ignatius-ephesians-longer.html
Peace to you
Holiness, Inheritance in His Kingdom and Eternal Hell or Universalism?
Source Post:
https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=10160833224292784&substory_index=0&id=651792783
1. Holiness/Purity and Inheriting the Kingdom of God
“… 1Therefore be IMITATORS of GOD as dear children. 2And walk in love, as Christ also has loved us and given Himself for us, an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweet-smelling aroma. 3But fornication and all uncleanness or COVETOUSNESS, let it not even be named among you, as is fitting for saints; 4neither filthiness, nor foolish talking, nor coarse jesting, which are not fitting, but rather giving of thanks. 5For [a]this you know, that no fornicator, unclean person, nor COVETOUS man, who is an idolater, has any INHERITANCE in the KINGDOM of CHRIST and GOD. …” (Ephesians 5:1 – 5, NKJV)
Comment: We preach a little extra emphasis on COVETOUSNESS because the other ‘unclean sins’ are more easily recognized and well preached by others. However, COVETOUSNESS (or ‘love of money/prosperity-focus’) is less preached against and hence it’s more subtle and just as destructive to cause one to “not” inherit the Kingdom of God as per the Warning in Verses above.
2) Can one be Saved but not Inherit the Kingdom of God?
“Possible” but I don’t know for sure, Verses:
“… 19Whoever therefore BREAKS one of the least of these commandments, and teaches men so, shall be called LEAST in the KINGDOM of HEAVEN; but whoever does and teaches them, he shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven. 20For I say to you, that unless YOUR RIGHTEOUSNESS EXCEEDS the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees, you will by NO MEANS ENTER the KINGDOM of HEAVEN. …” – KING of the Heavens and the Most Blessed One, LORD of lords, Jesus Christ (Matthew 5:19 – 20, NKJV)
The Rest may be Judged First in the Lake of Fire but may be Saved thereafter:
“… 7He who overcomes [d]shall inherit all things, and I will be his God and he shall be My son. 8But the cowardly, [e]unbelieving, abominable, murderers, sexually immoral, sorcerers, idolaters, and all liars shall have their part in the lake which burns with fire and brimstone, which is the second death.” …” (Revelation 21:7 – 8, NKJV)
“… And the Spirit and the bride say, “Come!” And let him who hears say, “Come!” And let him who thirsts come. Whoever desires, let him take the water of life freely. …” – apostle John (Revelations 22:17, NKJV)
Where possibly:
The Spirit = God
The Bride = Christians
“who thirsts” = anyone who is not yet reconciled to God (e. g. Those in the Lake of Fire, as Fire makes them thirsty)
Some may be Saved only after the “Lake of Fire” which is revealed on “Judgment Day” only:
“… 13Every man’s work shall be made manifest: for THE DAY [i.e. Judgment Day Context*] shall declare it, because it shall be REVEALED by FIRE; and the fire shall try every man’s work of what sort it is. 14If any man’s work abide which he hath built thereupon, he shall receive a reward. 15If any man’s work shall be burned, he shall suffer loss: but he himself shall be SAVED; YET SO AS BY FIRE. …” (1 Corinthians 3:13 – 15, KJV)
*[Emphasis Mine]
However, though Saved, such ones may remain OUTSIDE the Heavens Inheritance as only the River may flow into the OUTSIDE (being “least” in the “Kingdom of Heaven”):
“… 12“And behold, I am coming quickly, and My reward is with Me, to give to every one according to his work. 13I am the Alpha and the Omega, the [f]Beginning and the End, the First and the Last.”
14Blessed are those who [g]do His commandments, that they may have the right to the tree of life, and may enter through the gates into the city. 15[h]But OUTSIDE are dogs and sorcerers and sexually immoral and murderers and idolaters, and whoever loves and practices a lie. 16“I, Jesus, have sent My angel to testify to you these things in the churches. I am the Root and the Offspring of David, the Bright and Morning Star.” …” (Revelation 22:14 – 16, NKJV)
The CITY of GOD (or the Heavenly New Jerusalem will descend upon the Earth post-Judgment Day) and only those whose names are in the “Lamb’s Book of Life” may enter into it:
“… 1Now I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away. Also there was no more sea. 2Then I, [a]John, saw the holy city, New Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband. … 9Then one of the seven angels who had the seven bowls filled with the seven last plagues came [f]to me and talked with me, saying, “Come, I will show you the [g]bride, the Lamb’s wife.” 10And he carried me away in the Spirit to a great and high mountain, and showed me the [h]great city, the [i]holy Jerusalem, descending out of heaven from God, 11having the glory of God. … 22But I saw no temple in it, for the Lord God Almighty and the Lamb are its temple. 23The city had no need of the sun or of the moon to shine [l]in it, for the [m]glory of God illuminated it. The Lamb is its light. 24And the NATIONS [n]of THOSE WHO ARE SAVED shall walk in its light, and the KINGS OF THE EARTH bring their glory and honor [o]into it. 25Its gates shall not be shut at all by day (there shall be no night there). 26And they shall bring the glory and the honor of the nations into [p]it. 27But there shall by no means enter it anything [q]that defiles, or causes an abomination or a lie, but only those who are written in the Lamb’s Book of Life. …” (Revelation 21: 1 – 2, 9 – 10, 22 – 27, NKJV)
Comment: It’s possible that these phrases “… And the NATIONS [n]of THOSE WHO ARE SAVED …” and “… the KINGS OF THE EARTH …” may refer to some who are Saved but are ‘not His Bride/Christians’ who are already Saved earlier 1000 years earlier in the First Resurrection (Revelation 20:4 – 6) & can be inferred by the different phrases used to identify them where these are only Saved 1000 years later (Revelation 20:6, John 5:24) on ‘Judgment Day’ (Matthew 25:31 – 46) where God’s Mercy may be shown toward those who have “Done Good” (John 5:28 – 29, Daniel 12:2).
Conclusion
I am not sure 100% whether Christ Centered Universalism is true or Eternal Hell. Throughout Church History, there have been quotes in support of both where Eternal Hell is certainly the overwhelming majority. However as long as some Scripture remains which can point to such a Hope, I keep an open mind about it. Only God Knows.
This is “not” a tolerance of deception or anything like that. This is because a deceiver will be tricked either way whether he believes in Eternal Hell or if he believes in Christ Centered Universalism. How? I
If a deceiver believes in Eternal Hell and only then he is holy, his holiness may not exceed the righteousness of the Pharisees as his loyalty to God is only because he fears punishment. Likewise, if a deceiver believes in Christ Centered Universalism only because so that he can sin more and hope that he can be saved regardless, his claim of Love without Obedience is likewise fake as him. True Christians may be found in either camp as they are going to try to be Holy and Obey the Lord to Love one Another be it whether Eternal Hell is True or if Christ Centered Universalism is True.
I am not sure 100% which is True as First Christianity quotes by some of the best Christians in History (e.g. in quotes at the end) seem to point to such a hope. And so on Judgment Day and into the “Ages to come” (Ephesians 2:7), whichever God Decides, we accept it. We can Ask but let God Decide.
P/S: First Christianity Quotes in Support of Christ Centered Universalism Hope (all of them here do “not” have any Prayer to Virgin Mary except possibly for St. Cyril and St. Athanasius in recorded Church History & thus Protestants may consider these quotes too):
1) St. Augustine of Hippo
St. Augustine of Hippo himself affirms that we may contemplate such a possibility described above as “not Denying Holy Scripture” (and hence we are not heretics) even though he believed in Eternal Hell for the Wicked, to quote:
“… “There are very many in our day, who though not denying the Holy Scriptures, do not believe in endless torments. …” — St. Augustine of Hippo (354-430 A.D.)
Source: https://www.mercyuponall.org/tag/church-fathers/
or
“… Yet even in his wrath–his wrath resting on them–he does not “shut up his mercy.” This is not to put an end to their eternal afflictions, but rather to apply or interpose some little respite in their torments. … Now, if this wrath were all there is in man’s damnation, and even if it were present only in the slightest degree conceivable–still, to be lost out of the Kingdom of God, to be an exile from the City of God, to be estranged from the life of God, to suffer loss of the great abundance of God’s blessings which he has hidden for those who fear him and prepared for those who hope in him240 –this would be a punishment so great that, if it be eternal, no torments that we know could be compared to it, no matter how many ages they continued. …” – Blessed St. Augustine of Hippo, Doctor of the Church, who influenced virtually all of subsequent Western philosophy and Catholic theology, as well as a significant amount of Protestant theology (c. 354 AD – c. 430 AD, Points 112 – 113, CHAPTER XXIX. “The Last Things”, Enchiridion).
Source:
http://www.tertullian.org/fathers/augustine_enchiridion_02_trans.htm
2) St. Gregory of Nyssa
“… Gregory seems to have believed in the universal salvation of all human beings. Gregory argues that when Paul says that God will be “all in all” (1 Cor. 15:28), this means that though some may need long time of purification, eventually “no being will remain outside the number of the saved”[44] and that “no being created by God will fall outside the Kingdom of God”.[45] Due to the unity of human nature in Christ “all, thanks to the union with one another, will be joined in communion with the Good, in Jesus Christ Our Lord”.[46] By his incarnation, death and resurrection Christ achieves “the common salvation of human nature”. … Gregory also described God’s work this way: “His [God’s] end is one, and one only; it is this: when the complete whole of our race shall have been perfected from the first man to the last—some having at once in this life been cleansed from evil, others having afterwards in the necessary periods been healed by the Fire, others having in their life here been unconscious equally of good and of evil—to offer to every one of us participation in the blessings which are in Him, which, the Scripture tells us, ‘eye hath not seen, nor ear heard,’ nor thought ever reached.” …In the Life of Moses, Gregory writes that just as the darkness left the Egyptians after three days, perhaps redemption [ἀποκατάστασις] will be extended to those suffering in hell [γέεννα].[55] This salvation may not only extend to humans; following Origen, there are passages where he seems to suggest (albeit through the voice of Macrina*) that even the demons will have a place in Christ’s “world of goodness”.[56] Gregory’s interpretations of 1 Corinthians 15:28 (“And when all things shall be subdued unto him …”) and Philippians 2:10 (“That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth”) support this understanding of his theology. Furthermore, in the next chapter (ch. XXXVI), Gregory says that those who are purified from evil will be admitted into the “heavenly company”.
Source:
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gregory_of_Nyssa
*St. Macrina the Blessed was his sister while his brother is more of the famous sibling these days who is non other than St. Basil the Great.
or
“… When he has quitted his body and the difference between virtue and vice is known he cannot approach God till the purging fire shall have cleansed the stains with which his soul was infested. That same fire in others will cancel the corruption of matter, and the propensity to evil…” – Blessed St. Gregory of Nyssa, of whom four hundred years after his death, the Seventh Ecumenical Council gave him the one and only title which it has given to theologians in the Church, naming him “father of fathers”, Sermon on the Dead, PG 13:445,448 (ante A.D. 394).
Source:
www.scripturecatholic.com/purgatory/amp/
3) St. Cyril of Alexandria
“… What occasion will we still have for weeping? On the contrary, will not what has happened to us, thanks to the Savior, cause us boundless rejoicing? He it was Who showed the way of salvation not only to us, but also went as herald to the once disobedient spirits of the underworld, as Peter says (1 Pet. 3:19-20). For it would not have done for His loving-kindness to be shown only to some; the manifestation of the gift had to extended to all of nature. For He spoke opportunely through the Prophets, “One part shall be rained upon, and the part on which I shall not rain shall be dried up.” (Amos 4:7) But the word which befits the Savior is: “Come to me, all you who labor and are weary, and I will give you rest.” (Mt. 11:28) Having proclaimed His message, then, to the spirits in the underworld and having said to those in fetters, “Come forth!” and to those in darkness, “Show yourselves!” (cf. Isa. 49:9) He raised up the temple of Himself in three days, (cf. Jn. 2:19) and renewed for nature even the ascent into heaven, presenting Himelf to the Father as a kind of first-fruits of humanity, having endowed those on earth with a share of the Spirit as a pledge of grace. (cf. 2 Cor. 5:5) (Festal Letter 2.8) …” …” – Blessed St. Cyril, Patriarch of Alexandria, Titles: The Pillar of Faith; Seal of all the Fathers; Bishop, Confessor, and Doctor of the Church (c. 376 AD – c. 444 AD)
Source:
https://classicalchristianity.com/category/holyfathers/post-mortem/
4) St. Athanasius the Great
“… For since from man it was that death prevailed over men, for this cause conversely, by the Word of God being made man has come about the DESTRUCTION of DEATH and the RESURRECTION of LIFE; as the man which bore Christ230 saith: “For231 since by man came death, by man came also the resurrection of the dead. For as IN ADAM ALL DIE, so also IN CHRIST shall ALL be MADE ALIVE :” and so forth. For NO LONGER now do WE DIE as SUBJECT to CONDEMNATION; but as MEN who rise from the dead WE AWAIT the GENERAL RESURRECTION of ALL, “which232 42in its OWN TIMES He shall SHOW,” even God, Who has also wrought it, and bestowed it upon us… ” – Blessed St. Athanasius the Great, the Father of Orthodoxy, Patriarch of Alexandria and Champion of Trinity, Doctor of the Church and Confessor, Coptic Pope (c. 296 AD – c. 373 AD, Points 10.5 , ‘On the Incarnation’)
Source – Section 10: https://ccel.org/ccel/schaff/npnf204/npnf204.vii.ii.x.html
or
“… The Divine grace variously distributed… Further also, when the word is sown, it does not yield a uniform produce of fruit in this human life, but one various and rich ; for it bringeth forth, some an hundred j^nd some Matt.] 3, 8. sixty, and some thirty 7 , as the Saviour teaches — that Sower of grace, and Bestower of the Spirit … Nor is the grace confined to the perfect alone; but it is sent down also among those who occupy the middle and the third ranks, so that He might RESCUE ALL MEN GENERALLY to SALVATION…” – Blessed St. Athanasius the Great, the Father of Orthodoxy, Patriarch of Alexandria and Champion of Trinity, Doctor of the Church and Confessor, Coptic Pope (c. 296 AD – c. 373 AD, Festal Letter 70 – 71)
Source:
https://archive.org/stream/FestalEpistlesOfStAthanasiusEnglishTranslation/The_festal_epistles_of_S_Athanasius_Engl-Transl_djvu.txt
or
“… And if a man has gone down even to Hades, and stands awestruck before the heroes who have descended thither, regarding them as gods, still he may see the fact of Christ’s resurrection and His victory over death, and reason from it that, of all these, He alone is very Lord and God.
For the Lord touched all parts of creation, and freed and undeceived them all from every deceit. As St. Paul says, “Having put off from Himself the principalities and the powers, He triumphed on the cross,” so that no one could possibly be any longer deceived, but everywhere might find the very Word of God. For thus man, enclosed on every side by the works of creation and everywhere—in heaven, in Hades, in men and on the earth, beholding the unfolded Godhead of the Word, is no longer deceived concerning God, but worships Christ alone, and through Him rightly knows the Father. …” – Blessed St. Athanasius the Great, the Father of Orthodoxy, Patriarch of Alexandria and Champion of Trinity, Doctor of the Church and Confessor, Coptic Pope (c. 296 AD – c. 373 AD, Ibid, Chapter 7/ Section 45)
Source:
https://salvationforall.org/7_History/4b-alexandria-athanasius.html
5) St. Gregory the Great
“… On a time Saint Gregory went by the market of Rome which is called the market of Trajan, and then he remembered of the justice and other good deeds of Trajan, and how he had been piteous and debonair, and was much sorrowful that he had been a pagan, and he turned to the church of Saint Peter wailing for the horror of the miscreance of Trajan. Then answered a voice from God saying: I have now heard thy prayer, and have spared Trajan from the pain perpetual. …” (The Life of St. Gregory the Pope)
Source https://classicalchristianity.com/2012/02/06/st-gregory-the-dialogist-and-emperor-trajan/
Note: The additional comment in the link above (added by others and not Uttered by God during that Vision/Revelation to Pope St. Gregory the Great but commentators) reads next as follows [Please notice the phrase ‘as some say’ carefully in the below]: “… By this, as some say, the pain perpetual due to Trajan as a miscreant was some deal taken away, but for all that was not he quit from the prison of hell, for the soul may well be in hell and feel there no pain by the mercy of God. …”
The Truth is as Hieromonk Ambrose mentioned earlier, God only said this part to Blessed Pope St. Gregory the Great:
“… Then answered a voice from God saying: I have now heard thy prayer, and have spared Trajan from the pain perpetual. …”
Can you see it? This is exactly what the Final Prophecy of the Salvation from the Lake of Fire as described in the Apocalypse of Peter Prophecy by Lord Jesus Christ after the Righteous (Christians) Pray to Him to save the ‘damned’ from their ‘everlasting punishments’ will be answered eventually & the First Oldest Christian Canon called the Muratorian Canon lists this Book as “Scripture” too as discussed in Previous Posts.
6) St. Hilary of Poitiers
“… [Hence a prevalent tone of hopefulness about the future state of the baptized]; even Sodom and Gomorrah, their punishment in history having satisfied the righteousness of God, shall ultimately be saved 359. Yet God has a perfect, immutable goodness of which human goodness, though real, falls infinitely short, because He is steadfast and we are driven by varying impulses 360 …” – Blessed St. Hilary of Poictiers, the “Athanasius of the West”, “Hammer of Arians”, Doctor of the Church, The Champion of Trinity in the West (c. 310 AD – c. 368 AD, 359 Ib. lxviii. 22, based on St. Matt. x. 15. and 360 Ib. lii. 11, 12.)
Source [via infamous Historian Mr. Philip Schaff]:
https://www.ccel.org/ccel/schaff/npnf209.ii.iii.ii.html#fnf_ii.iii.ii-p249.1
“… 31. What that is must be understood in view of this same hope of our faith. … By their subjection, conceived as already past, is expressed the immutable power of Christ: by their subjection, as future, is signified their consummation at the end of the ages as the result of the fulness of time. … . The abolishing is not the same as the subjecting. … A subjection, on the other hand, which implies obedience and allegiance, is a proof of submission and mutability. 33. So when their authority is abolished, His enemies shall be subjected: and so subjected, that He shall subject them to Himself. … In the subjection of His enemies death is conquered; and, death conquered, life immortal follows. The Apostle tells us also of the special reward attained by this subjection which is made perfect by the subjection of belief: Who shall fashion anew the body of our humiliation, that it may be conformed to the body of His glory, according to the works of His power, whereby He is able to subject all things to Himself1286. There is then another subjection, which consists in a transition from one nature to another, for our nature ceases, so far as its present character is concerned, and is subjected to Him, into Whose form it passes. But by ‘ceasing’ is implied not an end of being, but a promotion into something higher. …” – Blessed St. Hilary of Poictiers, the “Athanasius of the West”, Doctor of the Church, The Champion of Trinity in the West (c. 310 AD – c. 368 AD, Book XI ‘On the Trinity’, Selected part of Points 31 – 37, re-emphasized)
Source:(via the Infamous Historian Mr. Philip Schaff):
https://www.ccel.org/ccel/schaff/npnf209.ii.v.ii.xi.html
and
“… Your third and last question relates to the passage in the same epistle where the apostle in discussing the resurrection, comes to the words: “for he must reign, till he hath put all things under his feet. The last enemy that shall be destroyed is death. For he hath put all things under his feet. But when he saith, all things are put under him, it is manifest that he is excepted, which did put all things under him. And when all things shall be subdued unto him, then shall the Son also himself be subject unto him that put all things under him that God may be all in all.” [1 Corinthians 15:24 – 28] I am surprised that you have resolved to question me about this passage when that reverend man, Hilary, bishop of Poictiers, has occupied the eleventh book of his treatise against the Arians with a full examination and explanation of it. Yet I may at least say a few words. The chief stumbling-block in the passage is that the Son is said to be subject to the Father. Now which is the more shameful and humiliating, to be subject to the Father (often a mark of loving devotion as in the psalm “truly my soul is subject unto God”) or to be crucified and made the curse of the cross? For “cursed is everyone that hangeth on a tree.” If Christ then for our sakes was made a curse that He might deliver us from the curse of the law, are you surprised that lie is also for our sakes subject to the Father to make us too subject to Him as He says in the gospel: “No man cometh unto the Father but by me,” and “I, if I be lifted up from the earth, will DRAW ALL men UNTO ME.” [John 12:32] Christ then is subject to the Father in the faithful; for ALL BELIEVERS, NAY the WHOLE HUMAN RACE, are accounted MEMBERS of HIS BODY. But in UNBELIEVERS, that is in JEWS, HEATHENS, and HERETICS, He is said to be NOT SUBJECT; for these members of His body are NOT SUBJECT to the FAITH. But in the END of the world when ALL HIS MEMBERS shall SEE CHRIST, that is their own body, reigning, THEY ALSO shall be MADE SUBJECT to Christ, that is to their own body, that the whole of Christ’s body may be subject unto God and the Father, and that God may be ALL in ALL [1 Corinthians 15:24 – 28]. He does not say “that the Father may be all in all” but that “God” may be, a title which properly belongs to the Trinity and may be referred not only to the Father but also to the Son and to the Holy Ghost. His meaning therefore is “that HUMANITY may be SUBJECT to the GODHEAD.” By HUMANITY we here intend not that gentleness and kindness which the Greeks call philanthropy but the WHOLE HUMAN RACE Moreover when he says “that God may be all in all,” it is to be taken in this sense. At present our Lord and Saviour is not all in all, but only a part in each of us. For instance He is wisdom in Solomon, generosity in David, patience in Job, knowledge of things to come in Daniel faith in Peter, zeal in Phinehas and Paul, virginity in John, and other virtues in others. But when the end of all things shall come, then shall He be all in all, for then the saints shall severally possess all the virtues and all will possess Christ in His entirety….” – Blessed St. Jerome of the Vulgate, Second Latin Doctor of the Church who did the First Official Translation of the Bible out of Its Original Languages into Latin, Priest, Confessor, Secretary to Pope Damasus I (c. 347 AD – c. 420 AD, Letter LV TO AMANDUS, Point 5, Written about the year 394 A. D.)
Source: http://www.annussacerdotalis.org/clerus/dati/2001-02/17-999999/Lett.html
Note: Though St. Jerome of the Vulgate began to lean toward Eternal-Hell theology of St. Augustine from 395 AD onward, he clearly reveals in the letter above circa 394 AD, “honestly” (a content which probably is “lost” quoting from St. Hilary of Poictiers’ 11th Book regarding the Mystery of Christ Centered Universalism). Please note also that St. Hilary has been dead for almost “30 plus years” at the time St. Jerome writes this letter proving that St. Hilary is certainly a Christ Centered Universalism believer.
7) St. Justin Martyr
“… The command of circumcision, again, bidding [them] always circumcise the children on the eighth day, was a type of the true circumcision, by which we are circumcised from deceit and iniquity through Him who rose from the dead on the first day after the Sabbath, [namely through] our Lord Jesus Christ. For the first day after the Sabbath, remaining the first of all the days, is called, however, the eighth, according to the number of all the days of the cycle, and [yet] remains the first. “Moreover, the prescription that twelve bells be attached to the [robe] of the high priest, which hung down to the feet, was a symbol of the twelve apostles, who depend on the power of Christ, the eternal Priest; and through their voice it is that all the earth has been filled with the glory and grace of God and of His Christ. Wherefore David also says: ‘Their sound has gone forth into all the earth, and their words to the ends of the world.’ And Isaiah speaks as if he were personating the apostles, when they say to Christ that they believe not in their own report, but in the power of Him who sent them. And so he says: ‘Lord, who hath believed our report? and to whom is the arm of the Lord revealed? We have preached before Him as if [He were] a child, as if a root in a dry ground.’ (And what follows in order of the prophecy already quoted.) But when the passage speaks as from the lips of many, ‘We have preached before Him,’ and adds, ‘as if a child,’ it signifies that the wicked shall become subject to Him, and shall obey His command, and that all shall become as one child. Such a thing as you may witness in the body: although the members are enumerated as many, all are called one, and are a body. For, indeed, a commonwealth and a church, though many individuals in number, are in fact as one, called and addressed by one appellation. And in short, sirs,” said I, “by enumerating all the other appointments of Moses I can demonstrate that they were types, and symbols, and declarations of those things which would happen to Christ, of those who it was foreknown were to believe in Him, and of those things which would also be done by Christ Himself. But since what I have now enumerated appears to me to be sufficient, I revert again to the order of the discourse.” – Blessed St. Justin Martyr, a Great Early Christian Apologist who is a Foremost Exponent of the Divine Word, who Influenced Virtually all of subsequent Christian philosophy and Catholic theology, Martyr for Christ (c. 100 AD – c. 160 AD, CHAPTER XLI & CHAPTER XLII, ‘Dialogue with Trypho’)
Source: http://www.earlychristianwritings.com/text/justinmartyr-dialoguetrypho.html
Please also notice ‘carefully’ how Blessed St. Justin Martyr distinguishes the Church as One Body vs the Wicked converted as ‘One Child’ as two different entities as follows:
i) The Wicked becoming Obedient/Subjected – as One Child – The “non-Elect Salvation” as per “all His Enemies” (1 Corinthians 15:25) in the End till God becomes All in All (1 Corinthians 15:24 – 28)
“…We have preached before Him as if [He were] a child, as if a root in a dry ground.’ (And what follows in order of the prophecy already quoted.) But when the passage speaks as from the lips of many, ‘We have preached before Him,’ and adds, ‘as if a child,’ it signifies that the wicked shall become subject to Him, and shall obey His command, and that all shall become as one child … and of those things which would also be done by Christ Himself …” – Blessed St. Justin Martyr
ii) The Church compared as an Analogy to that – The “Elect Salvation”
“… Such a thing as you may witness in the body: although the members are enumerated as many, all are called one, and are a body. For, indeed, a commonwealth and a church, though many individuals in number, are in fact as one, called and addressed by one appellation … of those who it was foreknown were to believe in Him,…” – Blessed St. Justin Martyr
” … And Justin of Neapolis, a man who was not far separated from the apostles either in age or excellence, says that that which is mortal is inherited, but that which is immortal inherits; and that the flesh indeed dies, but the kingdom of heaven lives. …” — From METHODIUS On the Resurrection, in Photius. (Fragment V, St. Justin Martyr’s Lost Writings)
Source: http://www.earlychristianwritings.com/text/justinmartyr-fragments.html
Note: Justin of Neapolis = Blessed St. Justin Martyr
8) St. Irenaeous of Lyons
“… Christ, who was called the Son of God before the ages, was manifested in the fulness of time, in order that He might cleanse us through His blood, who were under the power of sin, presenting us as pure sons to His Father, if we yield ourselves obediently to the chastisement of the Spirit. AND IN THE END OF TIME HE SHALL COME TO DO AWAY WITH ALL EVIL, AND TO RECONCILE ALL THINGS [Colossians 1:16,20*], in order that there may be AN END OF ALL IMPURITIES. … ” – Blessed St. Irenaeous, Bishop of Lyons, a Hearer of Blessed St. Polycarp the Disciple of Blessed St. John who wrote the Book of Revelation (c. 130 AD – c. 202 AD, Fragment XXXIX, FRAGMENTS FROM THE LOST WRITINGS OF IRENAEUS)
Translation Source:
http://www.earlychristianwritings.com/text/irenaeus-fragments.html
9) Shepherd of Hermas
How is this possible?
Context = Definition of Saved
Saved = Part of the Tower of Repentance = Being His Church /Bride
Not Saved = not His Church = have not Salvation (referring to ‘not’ being part of the First Resurrection Revelation 20:4 – 6 when He Returns, Matthew 7:21 – 23) but may be saved post-Judgment into ‘lower afterlife abodes’ especially if they were ‘sinners’ who participated in the righteous Word before backsliding. Yes, these same rejected unsaved stones are said to be saved in another place more humble eventually, to quote:
“… Do you wish to know who are the others which fell near the waters, but could not be rolled into them? These are they who have heard the word, and wish to be baptized in the name of the Lord; but when the chastity demanded by the truth comes into their recollection, they draw back, and again walk after their own wicked desires.” She finished her exposition of the tower. But I, shameless as I yet was, asked her, “Is repentance possible for all those stones which have been cast away and did not fit into the building of the tower, and will they yet have a place in this tower?” “Repentance,” said she, “is yet possible, but in this tower they cannot find a suitable place. But in another and much inferior place they will be laid, and that, too, only when they have been tortured and completed the days of their sins. And on this account will they be transferred, because they have partaken of the righteous Word. And then only will they be removed from their punishments when the thought of repenting of the evil deeds which they have done has come into their hearts. But if it does not come into their hearts, they will not be saved, on account of the hardness of their heart.” …” – Shepherd of Hermas (Chapter VII, Third Vision, Translated by another Well Known Scholar Mr. Roberts-Donaldson)
Source: http://www.earlychristianwritings.com/text/shepherd.html
10) Book of 1Enoch
“… [Chapter 50] 1 And in those days a change shall take place for the holy and elect, And the light of days shall abide upon them, And glory and honour shall turn to the holy, 2 On the day of affliction on which evil shall have been treasured up against the sinners. And the righteous shall be victorious in the name of the Lord of Spirits: And He will cause the others to witness (this) That they may repent And forgo the works of their hands. 3 They shall have no honour through the name of the Lord of Spirits, Yet through His name shall they be saved, And the Lord of Spirits will have compassion on them, For His compassion is great. 4 And He is righteous also in His judgement, And in the presence of His glory unrighteousness also shall not maintain itself: At His judgement the unrepentant shall perish before Him. 5 And from henceforth I will have no mercy on them, saith the Lord of Spirits. …” – Book of 1Enoch (Chapter 50, All Verses 1 – 5)
Source: http://wesley.nnu.edu/index.php?id=2126
Note: This Salvation is granted to “other non-Christians” who witness the Saved Christians being Glorified on Judgment Day for affliction. So this “others” must certainly be the members of the ‘Second Resurrection’ (Revelation 20:7) who are Saved on ‘Judgment Day’ who have “Done Good” Charity Works (as Matthew 25:31 – 46, Revelation 20:11 – 15, John 5:27 – 28 seems to point) who are “Saved without honour” because they didn’t believe in His Name earlier or some else giving a broader hope if this prophecy is true.
11) Sadhu Sundar Singh
Examples of Christ Centered Universalism Quotes by Sadhu Sundar singh
a) Relatively Good Atheists – an Atheist with a Reasonably Good Moral Life may be Saved in the Spirit World even now
“… DEATH OF A PHILOSOPHER … The soul of a German philosopher entered into the world of spirits and saw from afar the incomparable glory of the spiritual world, and the boundless happiness of its people. He was delighted with what he saw, but his stubborn intellectualism stood in the way of his entering into it, and enjoying its happiness. Instead of admitting that it was real, he argued thus with himself, “There is no doubt at all that I see all this, but what proof is there that it has objective existence, and is not some illusion conjured up by my mind? From end to end of all this scene I will apply the tests of logic, philosophy and science, and then only will I be convinced that it has a reality of its own, and is no illusion.” … . I asked one of the angels what the end of this man would be, and he replied “If this man’s life had been altogether bad, then he would at once have joined the spirits of darkness, but he is not without a moral sense, so for a very long time he will wander blindly round in the dim light of the lower parts of the intermediate state, and keep on bumping his philosophical head, until tired of his foolishness, he repents. Then he will be ready to receive the necessary instruction from the angels appointed for that purpose, and, when instructed, will he be fit to enter into the fuller light of God in the higher sphere…” – Blessed Sadhu Sundar Singh
Source [Translated by Rev. T. E. Riddle of the New Zealand Presbyterian Mission, Kharar, Punjab, from Urdu into English, c. 1926]:
https://reluctant-messenger.com/sadhu-sundar-singh.htm
b) Relatively Good Non-Christians
A sincerely wrong non-Christian Idolater who has a reasonably sound moral compass may have a chance in the Spirit World even now too if he doesn’t hold too strongly to his false beliefs, to quote:
“… THE MANIFESTATION OF CHRIST … I saw in a vision the spirit of an idolater on reaching the world of spirits begin at once to search for his god. Then the saints said to him, “There is no god here save the One True God, and Christ, who is His manifestation.” At this, the man was a good deal astonished, but being a sincere seeker after truth, he frankly admitted that he had been in error. He eagerly sought to know the correct view of truth, and asked if he might see the Christ. Shortly after this Christ manifested Himself in a dim light to him, and to others who had newly arrived in the world of spirits, because at this stage they could not have endured a full exhibition of His glory, for His glory is so surpassing that even the angels look on Him with difficulty, and cover their faces with their wings (Isaiah 6:9). When He does reveal Himself to any one He takes into account the particular stage of progress to which that soul has attained, so He appears dimly, or in the fuller light of His glory, that the sight of Him may be endured. So, when these spirits saw Christ in this dim but attractive light, they were filled with a joy and peace, which is beyond our power to describe. Bathed in the rays of His life-giving light, and with the waves of His love, which constantly flow out from Him, flowing over them, all their error was washed away. Then with all their hearts, they acknowledged Him as the Truth, and found healing, and, bowing in lowly adoration before Him, thanked and praised Him. And the saints, who had been appointed for their instruction; also rejoiced over them. …” – Blessed Sadhu Sundar Singh
Source [Translated by Rev. T. E. Riddle of the New Zealand Presbyterian Mission, Kharar, Punjab, from Urdu into English, c. 1926]:
https://reluctant-messenger.com/sadhu-sundar-singh.htm
c) Salvation from the Lake of Fire type quotes
(Question #3) Did the Sadhu think there was eternal punishment? — “There was punishment, but it was not eternal…Everyone after this life would be given a fair chance of making good, and attaining to the measure of fullness the soul was capable of. This might sometimes take ages.” – Sadhu Sundar Singh
Few Christians know that Sundar was not afraid to raise his voice in favor of “universalism.” He could never deny to all non-Christians the possibility of entering heaven.
In 1925 Sundar wrote, “If the Divine spark in the soul cannot be destroyed, then we need despair of no sinner… Since God created men to have fellowship with Himself, they cannot for ever be separated from Him… After long wandering, and by devious paths, sinful man will at last return to Him in whose Image he was created; for this is his final destiny.”
Source:
https://www.tentmaker.org/biographies/singh.htm
12) St. Ignatius of Antioch
“… and once more, “If I be lifted up from the earth, I will DRAW ALL MEN UNTO ME [John 12:32].” The Word therefore did dwell in flesh, for “Wisdom built herself an house.” The Word raised up again His own temple on the third day, when it had been destroyed by the Jews fighting against Christ. The Word, when His flesh was lifted up, after the manner of the brazen serpent in the wilderness [John 3:14], DREW ALL MEN to Himself for their ETERNAL SALVATION [John 12:32]…” – Blessed St. Ignatius, Bishop of Antioch, nicknamed ‘God-Bearing’, An Apostolic Father being the direct Disciple of the Blessed Apostle St. John, Martyr for Christ (c. 35 AD – c. 108 AD, Epistle to the Smyrnaeans, Chapter II)
Source: http://www.earlychristianwritings.com/text/ignatius-smyrnaeans-longer.html
“… ” You ought therefore to “hate those that hate God, and to waste away [with grief] on account of His enemies.” I do not mean that you should beat them or persecute them, as do the Gentiles “that know not the Lord and God; ” but that you should regard them as your enemies, and separate yourselves from them, while yet you admonish them, and exhort them to repentance, if it may be they will hear, if it may be they will submit themselves. For our God is a LOVER OF MANKIND, and “WILL HAVE ALL MEN TO BE SAVED, and to come to the knowledge of the truth.” [1 Timothy 2:4] Wherefore “He makes His sun to rise upon the evil and on the good, and sendeth rain on the just and on the unjust; ” of whose kindness the Lord, wishing us also to be imitators, says, “Be ye perfect, even as also your Father that is in heaven is perfect.” [Matthew 5:44 – 48]…” – Blessed St. Ignatius, Bishop of Antioch, nicknamed ‘God-Bearing’, An Apostolic Father being the direct Disciple of the Blessed Apostle St. John, Martyr for Christ (c. 35 AD – c. 108 AD, Epistle to the Philadelphians, Chapter III)
Source: http://www.earlychristianwritings.com/text/ignatius-philadelphians-longer.html
Peace to you
Absence of the Charity Doctrine Mystery – Lawless Murder and Hate Theology Dangers
Source Post:
https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=10160809610297784&id=651792783
The Devil deceives by making people feel that if they hate a person who differs from them, then they’re standing up for God and vice versa. This is a lie because Christ Himself Taught to “love our enemies” including the “evil person” in Matthew 5:43 – 48.
Yes, loving others does “not” mean we are agreeing with their sin as these shallow interpretations falsely accuse those who love their enemies. It means we love them even if they’re wrong to demonstrate that’s how Christ Loves us even when we are wrong too leaving the Judgment part to Him alone. The only Judgment we do which is Written in New Testament Scripture is Warn them of what they’re doing is sin & that God Will Judge them if they don’t repent. But whether they listen or not, we must still continue to love them.
Sound Biblical Doctrine in these Verses teaches us to leave the Judgment part to God while we ought to love them in any way we can. Why? Only then their blood will “not” be required at our hands as believers because being shown the Unconditional Love of God despite their evil deeds, if they don’t repent still, it’s their own fault alone.
However, if we as Christians failed to show that love to them first and if because of that they didn’t want to believe in Christ or Blaspheme Christ because of these murderous theology by some which teach to hate their enemies (via literal wars or even just hate, exclusion or equivalent thinking they are doing a good which unfortunately is “not” Written in any New Testament Verse), they may be held accountable. Please note that the New Testament expulsion verses only apply to so called “Christians” who “live sinfully willingly” and not toward Unbelievers if they do the same sin as 1 Corinthians 5:9 – 13 clearly Defines this Church Rule Context.
And such so called believers have been warned in Verses below to have “no” eternal life, Verses:
“… 12not as Cain who was of the wicked one and murdered his brother. And why did he murder him? Because his works were evil and his brother’s righteous. 13Do not marvel, my brethren, if the world hates you. 14We know that we have passed from death to life, because we love the brethren. He who does not love [c]his brother abides in death. 15Whoever hates his brother is a murderer, and you know that NO MURDERER HAS ETERNAL LIFE abiding in him. 16By this we know love, because He laid down His life for us. And we also ought to lay down our lives for the brethren. 17But WHOEVER HAS THIS WORLD’S GOODS, and sees his brother in need, and shuts up his heart from him, HOW DOES THE LOVE OF GOD ABIDE IN HIM? 18My little children, let us not love in word or in tongue, but in deed and in truth. …” (1 John 3:12 – 18, NKJV)
Please notice carefully the few things from Verses above:
1) Cain hated and murdered his brother Abel because the latter’s actions were “more righteous” than his.
2) Only those who “love the brethren” (regardless of denominations) abide in His Love (because “no” perfect denomination exists having flaws of theology in some way). So please be careful of ‘denominations or Christians’ who claim they are 100% right and condemn other Christians even.
3) The Context of a Murderer is “not” the literal killing but “hate” itself and the example of a ‘hate lifestyle’ warned against in these same Verses as the main context is a “brother” (or so called “believer”) who sees another brother in need but does “not” offer anything from “this world’s goods” (i.e. literal tangible material goods or things) is said to be that murderer with no eternal life because the Verse Asks rhetorically regarding such a one as “how does the Love of God abide in Him”? Can you see how important the Charity Doctrine is in this Verse (Context) itself when these Verses were First Written (hence Primary Context)?
4) The “Love of God” which is the opposite to the “Murderer” with “no eternal life” is evident only in those who practice the CHARITY DOCTRINE as in the Verses above describes them as follows (repeated for careful emphasis):
“… . 14We know that we have passed from death to life, because we love the brethren. He who does not love [c]his brother abides in death. 15Whoever hates his brother is a murderer, and you know that NO MURDERER HAS ETERNAL LIFE abiding in him. 16By this we know love, because He laid down His life for us. And we also ought to lay down our lives for the brethren. 17But WHOEVER HAS THIS WORLD’S GOODS, and sees his brother in need, and shuts up his heart from him, HOW DOES THE LOVE OF GOD ABIDE IN HIM? 18My little children, let us not love in word or in tongue, but in deed and in truth. …” (1 John 3:14 – 18, NKJV)
Please note that this Bible Verses do “not” talk about any other Topic or Action but only the Charity Doctrine Works and condemns the one who doesn’t do that by implying that person is a murderer or as “how does the Love of God abide in Him?” and so the other interpretations made on these same set of Verses are “not Written” and are just man-made interpolations which even if True, are just secondary meanings which do “not” remove this First Meaning of Scripture set forth in these Verses. “It is Written”.
Perfect Theology but missing this part certainly doesn’t save according to these Verses. However, imperfect theology but getting it right in this Biblical Charity Doctrine Lifestyle certainly is Saved by Grace to do this Utmost “Agape” (Love of God) Will of God as Christ’s Own Example of the “Good Samaritan Parable” proved as a Samaritan doesn’t have a perfect Theology (in Luke 10:25 – 37) and for those Practising this Charity Doctrine Commanded by Christ (e.g. Luke 11:41) they’re said to be “Forgiven” of “their sins” too in Verse below:
“… And above all things have fervent love for one another, for “LOVE will COVER a MULTITUDE OF SINS.” …”(1 Peter 4:8, NKJV)
Christ Himself Gives the Example of this irrefutable meaning in Verse below (which He Spoke to a woman known for breaking a 10 Commandment):
“… Therefore I say to you, HER SINS, which are MANY, ARE FORGIVEN, for SHE LOVED MUCH. But to whom little is forgiven, the same loves little. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 7:47, NKJV)
Yes “Agape” (Love of God) is Greater than “faith” itself, Verse:
“… And now abide FAITH, HOPE, LOVE, these three; but the GREATEST OF THESE IS LOVE. … ” (1 Corinthians 13:13, NKJV)
Peace to you
The Final Aim of Christian Living is the Charity Doctrine Lifestyle
Source Post:
https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=10160753795892784&id=651792783
Verse:
“… Finally, all of you be of one mind, having compassion for one another; love as brothers, be tenderhearted, be courteous; …” (1 Peter 3:8, NKJV)
These phrases “… having compassion for one another; love as brothers, be tenderhearted …” in ACTION beyond Words can only be seen via a literal “Sharing or Giving Act” as the proof of the “Love of God” too, Verse:
“… 16By this WE KNOW LOVE, because He laid down His life for us. And we also OUGHT TO LAY DOWN OUR LIVES FOR THE BRETHREN. 17But WHOEVER HAS THIS WORLD’S GOODS, and SEES HIS BROTHER IN NEED, AND SHUTS UP HIS HEART FROM HIM, HOW DOES THE LOVE OF GOD ABIDE IN HIM? 18My little children, let us NOT LOVE IN WORD or IN TONGUE, BUT IN DEED AND IN TRUTH …” (1 John 3:16 – 18, NKJV)
The “First Church” was like that, Verses:
“… 44Now all who BELIEVED were together, and had ALL THINGS in COMMON, 45and SOLD their POSSESSIONS and goods, and divided them among all, as anyone had need. 46So continuing DAILY with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, they ate their food with gladness and SIMPLICITY of HEART, 47praising God and having favor with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily those who were being saved. …” (Acts 2:44 – 47, NKJV)
“… 32Now the multitude of those who BELIEVED were of ONE HEART and ONE SOUL; neither did anyone say that ANY of the THINGS he POSSESSED was HIS OWN, but they had ALL THINGS in COMMON. … 34Nor was there anyone among them who lacked; for ALL who were POSSESSORS of LANDS or HOUSES SOLD them, and brought the proceeds of the things that were sold, 35and laid them at the apostles’ feet; and they DISTRIBUTED to each as ANYONE had NEED. 36And Joses, who was also named Barnabas by the apostles (which is translated Son of Encouragement), a Levite of the country of Cyprus, 37having land, sold it, and brought the money and laid it at the apostles’ feet. …” (Acts 4:32, 34 – 37, NKJV)
Conclusion – Why is this Important?
No one can Fulfill the Greatest Command to Love God without Fulfilling the Second Greatest Commandment to Love your neighbor in Action (as the neighbor Definition includes even the ‘enemy’ Samaritan Vs Jew too as Christ Himself Explained in Luke 10:25 – 37 – as this is the Ultimate Will of God belonging to the Two Greatest Commandments, can we see it?), Verses:
“… 29JESUS answered him, “The [k]first of all the commandments is: ‘Hear, O Israel, the Lord our God, the Lord is one. 30And you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your mind, and with all your strength.’ [l]This is the first commandment. 31And the second, like it, is this: ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is no other commandment greater than these.” …” (Mark 12:29 – 31, NKJV)
Among all the Will of God, the most important one is to Fulfill these two Greatest Commandments of Holy Scripture and hence the context of the Warning in Verse below applies:
“… 21“Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father in heaven. …” (Matthew 7:21, NKJV)
So without the ‘Charity Doctrine Lifestyle’, these two Greatest Commandments aren’t Fulfilled as the Ultimate “Will of God” and no one can Love God (say by sacrifices such as praying, worship, fasting, religious activities etc.) without loving one’s neighbor in action with literal “Giving and Sharing” (as these Verses Clearly Testify of the same Context) and thus, the more one Loves God, it is most clearly seen in the more one loves one’s neighbor including one’s enemies as many New Testament Bible Verses including the ones quoted here Testify:
“… If someone says, “I love God,” and hates his brother, he is a liar; for he who does not love his brother whom he has seen, how can he love God whom he has not seen? …” (1 John 4:8, NKJV)
Hence please be careful of those who claim to love God but treat others badly or do not share/give anything but receive only & use you to gain their prosperity or other benefits for themselves. Also please be careful of those who may be nice to you but are “not” nice toward others especially those whom they look down be it because the other persons are not rich, not highly educated, not skillful, not useful to them for benefits, nor good looking etc.
No wonder Christ Himself Specifically Commanded this Doctrine of Sanctification for both the “Inside and Outside” as “Almsgiving” or “Charity Doctrine” and nothing else in Verse in Luke 11:41 as per a few translations below:
“… But WHAT YE HAVE GIVE YE AS ALMS, and, lo, ALL THINGS are CLEAN TO YOU. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Young’s Literal Translation, Luke 11:41, YLT)
“… But now as for WHAT IS INSIDE YOU–be GENEROUS TO THE POOR, and EVERYTHING WILL BE CLEAN FOR YOU. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 11:41, NIV)
“… But rather give alms of such things as ye have; and, behold, all things are clean unto you. …” (Luke 11:41, KJV)
“… But rather give alms of such things as you have; then indeed all things are clean to you. …” (Luke 11:41, NKJV)
“… But give that which is within as a charitable gift, and then all things are clean for you. …” (Luke 11:41, NASB)
Please remember that when we Teach Almsgiving we are Teaching what Christ Commanded in Verses above for Sanctification and not the opinions of men.
Peace to you
Jewish Christianity Context first – Charity Doctrine in the Tov Ayin or Good Eye Mystery
Someone put it like this, a Good Eye (Hebrew: Ayin Tov) is a Hebrew idiom meaning “generous person”. Having a good eye essentially means “having the ability to be generous when the opportunity is needed”. To quote:
“… Jesus’ saying appears, however, to be a Hebraic idiom that was used to describe a person’s outlook towards others. A person with a “good eye” (tov-ayin or ayin-tovah) was a person who looked at others with compassion and had a generous spirit, and gave to others as needed. The person with the evil eye (ayin ra’ah) is one who is stingy toward others and greedy with money. This expression is still used in Hebrew today. When people go through Jerusalem raising money, they say, “Please give with a good eye!” The same idiom is also found in Proverbs: “A generous man (Literally, “A good eye”) will be blessed, for he shares his food with the poor.” (Proverbs 22:9) Jesus also uses it at the end of the parable of the landowner who pays the workers all the same, no matter how long they work. The landowner says to the complainers, literally, “Is your eye evil (greedy) because I am good?” (Matthew 20:15). Understanding this idiom helps us understand the whole passage in Matthew 6 that begins with “Do not lay your treasures up on earth,” then talks about the good/evil eye, and then ends with “One cannot serve two masters – both God and money.” All three of these sayings are part of a greater teaching on having the right attitude toward money. …”
Source:
Peace to you
God’s Will in the Biblical Purpose Driven Life – Do Good Works especially the Charity Doctrine
Firstly, why is this Important?
“… 21“Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father in heaven. …” (Matthew 7:21, NKJV)
Which Will of God is Christ Referring to above?
We shall see with other Verses that this is the “Law of Christ” which is nothing else than the Charity Doctrine Lifestyle where the opposite is just religious lawlessness as the Pharisees lived like that and Christ Warned of the “Foolish Virgins” likewise despite being “Virgins or keeping Holy” (Matthew 25:1 – 13) which even the Rich Young Ruler could do ‘without Christ but kept All the Holy Torah/Law’ as Matthew 19:16 – 20 Reveals:
“… 16Now behold, one came and said to Him, “Good Teacher, WHAT GOOD THING SHALL I DO that I MAY HAVE ETERNAL LIFE?” 17So He said to him, “Why do you call Me good? No one is good but One, that is, God. But IF YOU WANT TO ENTER INTO LIFE, KEEP THE COMMANDMENTS.” 18He said to Him, “Which ones?” Jesus said, “‘You shall not murder,’ ‘You shall not commit adultery,’ ‘You shall not steal,’ ‘You shall not bear false witness,’ 19‘Honor your father and your mother,’ and, ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ ” 20The young man said to Him, “ALL THESE THINGS I HAVE KEPT FROM MY YOUTH. WHAT DO I STILL LACK?” …” (Matthew 19:16 – 20, NKJV)
But yet “he lacked” even though he kept the remaining 7 of the 10 Commandments or the remaining 603 Commands of the Torah excluding the ‘Love God part (the First 3 Commands) which is not mentioned in the Verses above’ as Christ Clearly Points to the “Weightier/Hidden” more important matter of the Torah of “Faith, Justice and Mercy” to be Primarily the Charity Doctrine of “Doing Almsgiving” to the “Poor” in Verses below:
“… 20The young man said to Him, “All these things I have kept [g]from my youth. What do I STILL LACK?” 21JESUS said to him, “IF you want to be PERFECT, go, SELL what YOU HAVE and GIVE to the POOR, and YOU WILL HAVE TREASURE IN HEAVEN; and come, FOLLOW ME.” 22But when the young man heard that saying, he went away SORROWFUL, for he had GREAT POSSESSIONS.23Then JESUS said to His disciples, “Assuredly, I say to you that it is HARD for a RICH MAN TO ENTER THE KINGDOM OF HEAVEN. 24And AGAIN I say to you, it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God. …” (Matthew 19:20 – 24, NKJV)
Please remember that if the rich young ruler “lacked” in these aspects (Matthew 19:20) as Christ Points out above (Matthew 19:21 – 24) despite him keeping all the “Holiness Commands including the 10 Commandments of the Torah/Law” (Context first in Matthew 19:16 – 20), the rich young ruler then ‘lacks’ from keeping God’s Will of His Commandments to enter into life as Christ Required in Matthew 19:16 – 17. Why the Charity Doctrine Command? Because the Mystery is that being the “Law of Christ” (Galatians 6:2) of “Love in Action”, it implies Forgiveness of Sins (1 Peter 4:8, Luke 7:47) and “Fulfills All Torah/Law” (Galatians 5:14) being the “Hidden/Weightier” matter of the Torah as these Verses Testify (including the meaning of Matthew 7:12 in discussing the Great Denial Verses in this same chapter as well Matthew 7:18 – 23 to avoid Lawlessness):
“… BEAR ONE ANOTHER’S BURDENS, and so FULFILL the LAW OF CHRIST. …” (Galatians 6:2, NKJV)
“… And above all things have fervent love for one another, for “LOVE will COVER a MULTITUDE OF SINS.” …”(1 Peter 4:8, NKJV)
“… Therefore I say to you, HER SINS, which are MANY, ARE FORGIVEN, for SHE LOVED MUCH. But to whom little is forgiven, the same loves little. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 7:47, NKJV)
“… For ALL THE LAW (TORAH) IS FULFILLED in one word, even in this: “You shall love your neighbor as yourself.” …” (Galatians 5:14, NKJV)
“… Therefore, whatever you want men to do to you, do also to them, for this is the Law (Torah) and the Prophets. …” (Matthew 7:12, NKJV)
Because the Charity Doctrine of Love your neighbor as yourself makes “Kings and Priests” in His Kingdom (Revelation 1:6), it’s called the Royal Law of Scripture. We need to keep the “Royal Law” of “Scripture” which is to “love one’s neighbor as oneself” (i.e. the “Charity Doctrine”) and ‘not all the Torah/Law’ where the Warning is if we try that we will be judged even for missing one of it as equivalent to missing all of it according to Verses below:
“… 8If you really FULFILL THE ROYAL LAW according to the SCRIPTURE, “You shall LOVE YOUR NEIGHBOR AS YOURSELF,” YOU DO WELL; 9but if you [e]show partiality, you commit sin, and are convicted by the law as transgressors. 10For whoever shall KEEP THE WHOLE LAW, and yet STUMBLE IN ONE POINT, HE IS GUILTY OF ALL. 11For He who said, “Do not commit adultery,” also said, “Do not murder.” Now if you do not commit adultery, but you do murder, you have become a transgressor of the law. 12So speak and so do as those who will be judged by the law of liberty. 13For JUDGMENT IS WITHOUT MERCY to the one who has SHOWN NO MERCY. MERCY TRIUMPHS OVER JUDGMENT. 14What does it profit, my brethren, if someone says he HAS FAITH BUT DOES NOT HAVE WORKS? CAN FAITH SAVE HIM? 15If a brother or sister is naked and destitute of daily food, 16and 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? 17Thus also FAITH BY ITSELF, IF IT DOES NOT HAVE WORKS, IS DEAD. …” (James 2:8 – 17, NKJV)
Note: The only thing that can Triumph or over Judgment is “Mercy” and it refers to the “Mercy” that person has shown to others first in their lives prior which is nothing else than the “Charity Doctrine” and forgiving easily those who have wronged us. Please also notice carefully in Verses above that when discussing this context of the “Royal Law” of Scripture to “Love your neighbor as yourself” (James 2:8), the only physical act mentioned in Verses above is the literal material needs sharing with one another as the “Works of Saving Faith” in James 2:14 – 17.
In other words the Context is very strong in Verses below that the “Faith that is Dead” refers to a ‘Faith without physical sharing of material needs toward one another’ if we take the literal Sola Scriptura approach, Verses:
“… 14What does it profit, my brethren, if someone says he HAS FAITH BUT DOES NOT HAVE WORKS? CAN FAITH SAVE HIM? 15If a brother or sister is naked and destitute of daily food, 16and 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? 17Thus also FAITH BY ITSELF, IF IT DOES NOT HAVE WORKS, IS DEAD. …” (James 2:14 – 17, NKJV)
The explanations that Works of Faith can refer to something else is “not” Written in Verses above and thus remains as opinions of men which could be true but the most important Work of Saving Faith is clearly literal material sharing of needs of the Charity Doctrine of ‘this World’s Goods’ as the next set of Verses below too agree as the “Faith Working through Love” Context (Galatians 5:6) likewise points to this same context as “love your neighbor” with literal earthly needs/goods to fulfill “all Law” (all Torah, not some, Galatians 5:14) and hence no one can be condemned to preach or do it likewise as these Verses clearly Reveal Further:
“… For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision nor uncircumcision avails anything, but FAITH WORKING THROUGH LOVE. … For ALL THE LAW IS FULFILLED in one word, even in this: “YOU SHALL LOVE YOUR NEIGHBOR AS YOURSELF.” …” (Galatians 5:6, 14, NKJV)
The phrase “… FAITH WORKING THROUGH LOVE …” = ‘Faith with Charity Doctrine’ because ‘Charity Doctrine is Love in Action’, Verses:
“… 16By this WE KNOW LOVE, because He laid down His life for us. And we also OUGHT TO LAY DOWN OUR LIVES FOR THE BRETHREN. 17But WHOEVER HAS THIS WORLD’S GOODS, and SEES HIS BROTHER IN NEED, AND SHUTS UP HIS HEART FROM HIM, HOW DOES THE LOVE OF GOD ABIDE IN HIM? 18My little children, let us NOT LOVE IN WORD or IN TONGUE, BUT IN DEED AND IN TRUTH …” (1 John 3:16 – 18, NKJV)
Yes this “Love your neighbor as yourself” is Described as the Second Greatest Commandment even though it’s not part of the 10 Commandments but one of the other ‘lesser Law’ of the remaining 603 Commandments, Verses:
“… You shall not take vengeance, nor bear any grudge against the children of your people, but you shall love your neighbor as yourself: I am the LORD. …” (Leviticus 19:18, NKJV)
“… 29JESUS answered him, “The [k]first of all the commandments is: ‘Hear, O Israel, the Lord our God, the Lord is one. 30And you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your mind, and with all your strength.’ [l]This is the first commandment. 31And the second, like it, is this: ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is NO OTHER COMMANDMENT GREATER THAN THESE.” …” (Mark 12:29 – 31, NKJV)
This proves that Matthew 7:12 or Galatians 5:14 refers to the “Hidden/Weightier” matter of the Law/Torah to be the “Love your neighbor as yourself” which means nothing else than the “Charity Doctrine Lifestyle” only as Christ Himself Defines this as follows with ‘no other religious activity addition’ in Verses below proving it sole importance independently (please also note that a ‘Samaritan’ refers to someone who doesn’t know God Properly as Christ Himself Said it in John 4:19 – 24 but yet in Verses next Christ Clearly implies that this Person with Charity Doctrine Lifestyle gets Eternal Life):
“… 25And behold, a certain lawyer stood up and tested Him, saying, “Teacher, what shall I DO TO INHERIT ETERNAL LIFE?” 26He said to him, “What is WRITTEN IN THE LAW? What is YOUR READING OF IT?” 27So he answered and said, “ ‘You shall LOVE THE LORD YOUR GOD with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your strength, and with all your mind,’ and ‘YOUR NEIGHBOR AS YOURSELF.’ ” 28And He said to him, “You have answered rightly; DO THIS AND YOU WILL LIVE.” 29But he, wanting to justify himself, said to Jesus, “And WHO IS MY NEIGHBOR?” 30Then JESUS ANSWERED and said: “A certain man went down from Jerusalem to Jericho, and fell among thieves, who stripped him of his clothing, wounded him, and departed, leaving him half dead. 31Now by chance a certain priest came down that road. And when he saw him, he passed by on the other side. 32Likewise a Levite, when he arrived at the place, came and looked, and passed by on the other side. 33But a certain Samaritan, as he journeyed, came where he was. And when he saw him, he had COMPASSION. 34So he went to him and BANDAGED HIS WOUNDS, pouring on oil and wine; and he set him on his own animal, brought him to an inn, and TOOK CARE OF HIM. 35On the next day, when he departed, he took out two denarii, gave them to the innkeeper, and said to him, ‘TAKE CARE OF HIM; and WHATEVER MORE YOU SPEND, when I come again, I WILL REPAY YOU.’ 36So which of these three do you think was NEIGHBOR to him who fell among the thieves? 37And he said, “He who SHOWED MERCY on him.” Then JESUS SAID to him, “GO AND DO LIKEWISE.”…” (Luke 10:25 – 37, NKJV)
Conclusion
No one is Saved by Good Works but the Saved are Predestined to do Good Works as God’s Will especially the Charity Works, Verses:
“… 8For by GRACE you have been SAVED THROUGH FAITH, and that NOT OF YOURSELVES; it is the GIFT OF GOD, 9NOT OF WORKS, lest anyone should boast. 10For we are His workmanship, CREATED IN CHRIST JESUS for GOOD WORKS, which GOD PREPARED BEFOREHAND that WE SHOULD WALK IN THEM. …” (Ephesians 2:8 – 10, NKJV)
“… COMMAND those who are RICH … Let them DO GOOD, that they be RICH in GOOD WORKS, ready to GIVE, willing to SHARE, 19storing up for themselves a good FOUNDATION for the TIME to COME, that they MAY lay HOLD on ETERNAL LIFE. …” (1 Timothy 6:17 – 19, NKJV)
Judgment Day Verses agree regarding the “Charity Doctrine Lifestyle” as no other religious Act or of Holiness is mentioned proving again its independence importance to fulfill “All Law/Torah” (Galatians 5:14):
“… 34Then shall the King say unto them on his right hand, Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world: 35For I was an hungred, and ye gave me meat: I was thirsty, and ye gave me drink: I was a stranger, and ye took me in: 36Naked, and ye clothed me: I was sick, and ye visited me: I was in prison, and ye came unto me. 37Then shall the righteous answer him, saying, Lord, when saw we thee an hungred, and fed thee? or thirsty, and gave thee drink? 38When saw we thee a stranger, and took thee in? or naked, and clothed thee? 39Or when saw we thee sick, or in prison, and came unto thee? 40And the King shall answer and say unto them, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 25:34 – 40, KJV)
“… 13“Enter by the narrow gate; for wide is the gate and broad is the way that leads to destruction, and there are many who go in by it. 14[c]Because narrow is the gate and [d]DIFFICULT is the way which LEADS TO LIFE, and there are FEW WHO FIND IT. 15“Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravenous wolves. 16You will know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes from thornbushes or figs from thistles? 17Even so, every good tree bears good fruit, but a bad tree bears bad fruit. 18A good tree cannot bear bad fruit, nor can a bad tree bear good fruit. 19EVERY TREE that does NOT BEAR GOOD FRUIT is CUT DOWN AND THROWN INTO THE FIRE. 20Therefore by their fruits you will know them. 21“Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father in heaven. 22MANY will say to Me in that day, ‘Lord, Lord, have we NOT PROPHESIED in Your name, CAST OUT DEMONS in Your name, and DONE MANY WONDERS in Your name?’ 23And then I will declare to them, ‘I NEVER KNEW YOU; depart from Me, you who practice LAWLESSNESS!’
24“Therefore WHOEVER HEARS THESE SAYINGS OF MINE, and DOES THEM, I will liken him to a WISE MAN who BUILT HIS HOUSE ON THE ROCK: …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 7:13 – 24, NKJV)
Who is Saved into the First Resurrection (Revelation 20:4 – 6) narrow road to life (Matthew 7:13 – 14) which makes “Kings and Priests in His Kingdom” (Revelation 1:6)?
“… [7Then he said to the multitudes that came out to be baptized by him], “Brood of vipers! Who warned you to flee from the wrath to come? 8Therefore bear FRUITS WORTHY OF REPENTANCE, and do not begin 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. 9And 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.” 10So the people asked him, saying, “What shall we do then?” 11He answered and said to them, “HE WHO HAS TWO TUNICS, let him GIVE TO HIM WHO HAS NONE; and HE WHO HAS FOOD, LET HIM DO LIKEWISE.” 12Then tax collectors also came to be baptized, and said to him, “Teacher, what shall we do?” 13And he said to them, “COLLECT NO MORE THAN WHAT IS APPOINTED FOR YOU.” 14Likewise the soldiers asked him, saying, “And what shall we do?” So he said to them, “DO NOT INTIMIDATE ANYONE or ACCUSE FALSELY, and BE CONTENT WITH YOUR WAGES. …” – Answers by Blessed St. John the Baptist, ForeRunner for Christ (Luke 3:7 – 14, NKJV)
Please notice ‘carefully’ in the above Verses that when mentioning the “rejected trees which ought to be burnt in Fire” (same Context as the Denied Lawless Christians in Matthew 7:13 – 19above) their conversion acts toward “Many” and “Casting out demons, Prophesying and Miracles” did “not” Count at all due to Lawlessness (Matthew 7:20 – 23 earlier) except if one follows “Christ’s Direct Words” (Matthew 7:24 as the Answer to Counter Lawlessness) where St. John the Baptist discussing this same context of ‘trees burnt in fire’ (Matthew 7:19 & Luke 3:9 link) clearly points to the Chief “Fruit Worthy of Repentance” (Luke 3:8) is Pointed First as the Charity Doctrine of literal earthly needs sharing as described as “… What shall we do then?” 11He answered and said to them, “HE WHO HAS TWO TUNICS, let him GIVE TO HIM WHO HAS NONE; and HE WHO HAS FOOD, LET HIM DO LIKEWISE.” …” (in Luke 3:10 – 11).
In other words, St. John the Baptist Speaks Anointedly to Reveal these Simple and Beautiful Truths regarding the “Fruits Worthy of Repentance” (Luke 3:8) to avoid being “Burnt in Fire” (Luke 3:9) only as these aspects in Verses above as nothing else matters as much:
1) Firstly, a life of Charity Doctrine toward meeting the literal needs of others:
“… What shall we do then?” 11He answered and said to them, “HE WHO HAS TWO TUNICS, let him GIVE TO HIM WHO HAS NONE; and HE WHO HAS FOOD, LET HIM DO LIKEWISE.” …” – Blessed St. John the Baptist, ForeRunner for Christ (Luke 3:10 – 11, NKJV)
2) Do not highly price things or take high income especially when you know you don’t deserve it for the work that you do as that’s not being clever in a business sense but a type of oppression of lying & manipulation or racism/exploitation of desperate poor workers of which you may be benefitting from being higher on the economic food chain and that’s “not” God’s Favour as some deceive in Principle of these Verses:
“… 12Then tax collectors also came to be baptized, and said to him, “Teacher, what shall we do?” 13And he said to them, “COLLECT NO MORE THAN WHAT IS APPOINTED FOR YOU.” …” Blessed St. John the Baptist, ForeRunner for Christ (Luke 3:12 – 13, NKJV)
3) There’s “no” Faith for more money/prosperity but only “Contentment” and also no oppressing others as these Verses describe this required fruit of repentance too
“… 14Likewise the soldiers asked him, saying, “And what shall we do?” So he said to them, “DO NOT INTIMIDATE ANYONE or ACCUSE FALSELY, and BE CONTENT WITH YOUR WAGES. …” – Blessed St. John the Baptist, ForeRunner for Christ (Luke 3:14, NKJV)
Note: All Good Tree will have the three Traits of Fruits Worthy of Repentance as the Context of these Bible Verses (“not” opinions of men) clearly Reveals “as it is Written”.
Let’s End with Christ’s Warning:
“… 15“Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For YOU TRAVEL LAND and SEA TO WIN ONE PROSELYTE, and when he is won, you make him TWICE as much a SON OF [h]HELL as yourselves. … 23“Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you pay tithe of mint and anise and cummin, and have neglected the WEIGHTIER MATTERS OF THE LAW (Torah):JUSTICE and MERCY and FAITH. These you ought to have done, without leaving the others undone. 24Blind guides, who strain out a gnat and swallow a camel! 25“Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you CLEANSE THE OUSTIDE of the cup and dish, but INSIDE they are full of extortion and [l]SELF-INDULGENCE. 26Blind Pharisee, first cleanse the inside of the cup and dish, that the outside of them may be clean also. …”- The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 23:13 – 15, 23 – 26, NKJV)
What does Christ mean by the “weightier matters of the Law” without fulfilling which the “outside holiness” (or ‘godliness of keeping holy’) doesn’t save?
In Matthew 23:23 above, He Declares it as “Justice, Mercy and Faith”.
Also in Matthew 23:25 – 26, Christ Teaches the “Doctrine of Sanctification” where the “inside” ought to be “clean” also and not just “outward holiness” (i.e. abstinence from sinful acts). However, Matthew doesn’t record the “how” to do it in these Verses.
The Mysterious Answer regarding both the “Justice, Mercy & Faith” (Matthew 23:23) and the Doctrine of Sanctification which “Cleans All” (both Inside & Outside) as Christ Promises above (in Matthew 23:25 – 26) is nothing else than the “Charity Doctrine” with the Focus on “Almsgiving” (Alms / Charity Works) ‘not knowing which’ Christ calls them “fools” which agrees to the Parable of the Wise and Foolish Virgins likewise as we have seen who despite being “virgins” (or outwardly holy, Matthew 25:1 – 13) miss this part as Described by Christ Himself to Explain ‘what He Means in His Own Most Blessed Words’, Verses:
“… 39Then the Lord said to him, “Now you Pharisees make the OUTSIDE OF THE CUP and DISH CLEAN, but YOUR INWARD PART is full of [k]GREED and WICKEDNESS. 40FOOLISH ones! Did not He who made the outside make the inside also? 41But rather GIVE ALMS of [l]SUCH THINGS AS YOU HAVE; then indeed ALL THINGS ARE CLEAN TO YOU. 42“But woe to you Pharisees! For you tithe mint and rue and all manner of herbs, and pass by JUSTICE and the LOVE of GOD These you ought to have done, without leaving the others undone. 43Woe to you Pharisees! For you love the [m]best seats in the synagogues and greetings in the marketplaces. 44Woe to you, [n]scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you are like graves which are not seen, and the men who walk over them are not aware of them.” …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 11:39 – 45, NKJV)
God doesn’t look at the result nor the amount of giving but your love & relative measure which makes it ‘fair to all’ (as God has no Partiality) as the widow who gave only two coins which probably couldn’t feed any still gave more than all including the Rich’s giving which had tangible effects.
“… 1And He looked up and saw the rich putting their gifts into the treasury, 2and He saw also a certain poor widow putting in two mites.[a] 3So He said, “TRULY I say to you that this POOR widow has put in MORE THAN ALL; 4for all these out of their abundance have put in offerings [b]for God, but she OUT OF HER POVERTY PUT IN ALL THE LIVELIHOOD THAT SHE HAD.” …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 21:1 – 4, NKJV)
Please allow me to repeat:
Most Importantly, LORD JESUS CHRIST Himself referred to the “Justice” and “Love of God” which He Referred to not as the tithing which the Pharisees were very good at (in Luke 11:42 below) but rather as referring to something which they didn’t do, namely GIVING TO CHARITY/ALMS from “what they have”. Please notice carefully that Christ Commands that outwardly clean/holy Pharisee to Give ALMS (CHARITY) from “what he has” as the phrase “… 41But rather GIVE ALMS of [l]SUCH THINGS AS YOU HAVE; then indeed ALL THINGS ARE CLEAN TO YOU …” (in Luke 11:41) below means probably because when they did Charity apart from being insincere (e.g. Matthew 6:1 – 2), they never included “their own money” to do it.
“… 39Then the Lord said to him, “Now you Pharisees make the OUTSIDE OF THE CUP and DISH CLEAN, but YOUR INWARD PART is full of [k]GREED and WICKEDNESS. 40FOOLISH ones! Did not He who made the outside make the inside also? 41But rather GIVE ALMS of [l]SUCH THINGS AS YOU HAVE; then indeed ALL THINGS ARE CLEAN TO YOU. 42“But woe to you Pharisees! For you tithe mint and rue and all manner of herbs, and pass by JUSTICE and the LOVE of GOD These you ought to have done, without leaving the others undone. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 11:39 – 45, NKJV)
Peace to you
God’s Will – What did God Command the “gods” or Fallen Angels but they failed?
The “Charity Doctrine”, Verses:
“… 1God stands in the congregation of [a]the mighty; HE JUDGES AMONG THE [B]GODS.
2How long will you judge unjustly,
And show partiality to the wicked? Selah
3[c]DEFEND THE POOR and FATHERLESS;
Do justice to the AFFLICTED AND NEEDY.
4Deliver the POOR AND NEEDY;
Free them from the hand of the wicked. …” (Psalm 82:1 – 8, NKJV)
So, the Charity Doctrine is God’s Will even toward the rulers of the Heavenlies.
Comment: Please read the entire Chapter in Psalm 82 below and see that “no” other “God’s Will” is mentioned proving the Importance of this Doctrine in our daily living.
“… 1God stands in the congregation of [a]the mighty; HE JUDGES AMONG THE [B]GODS.
2How long will you judge unjustly,
And show partiality to the wicked? Selah
3[c]DEFEND THE POOR and FATHERLESS;
Do justice to the AFFLICTED AND NEEDY.
4Deliver the POOR AND NEEDY;
Free them from the hand of the wicked
5They do not know, nor do they understand;
They walk about in darkness;
All the foundations of the earth are [d]unstable.
6I said, “YOU ARE [E]GODS,
And all of you are children of the Most High.
7BUT YOU SHALL DIE LIKE MEN,
And fall like one of the princes.”
8Arise, O God, judge the earth;
For You shall inherit all nations. …” (Psalm 82:1 – 8, NKJV)
Please notice the phrase “… you shall die like men, …” (Psalm 82:7 above) proves that the ones God Calls them as “… You are [e]gods, And all of you are children of the Most High. …” (Psalm 82:6 above) are most likely not humans but angelic powers.
The Judgment of “… they will die like men …” (Psalm 82:7 above) because they tried to block and not support this “Charity Doctrine” causing the “poor” and “needy” to starve to death or suffer in many ways is equivalently they will literally “.. starve to death …” too on that day as “men” as Promised in Verse above as Prophesied in Verse below in front of their own worshippers, to quote:
“… The LORD will be terrifying to them, for He will STARVE ALL THE GODS OF THE EARTH; and all the coastlands of the nations will bow down to Him, everyone from his own place …” (Zephaniah 2:11, NKJV)
Please notice the phrase “… STARVE ALL THE GODS OF THE EARTH …” carefully as Prophesied in Verse above when His Judgments at that time Begin. The Septuagint reads similarly as follows:
“… 11The Lord shall appear against them, AND SHALL UTTERLY DESTROY ALL THE GODS OF THE NATIONS OF THE EARTH; and they shall worship him every one from his place, even all the islands of the nations. …” (Zephaniah 2:11, Brenton Septuagint Translation, LXX)
Yes good and bad angelic powers do fight in the realm, example Verses:
“… 12Then he said to me, “Do not fear, Daniel, for from the first day that you set your heart to understand, and to humble yourself before your God, your words were heard; and I have come because of your words. 13But the prince of the kingdom of Persia withstood me twenty-one days; and behold, Michael, one of the chief princes, came to help me, for I had been left alone there with the kings of Persia. 14Now I have come to make you understand what will happen to your people in the latter days, for the vision refers to many days yet to come.” …” (Daniel 10:12 – 14, NKJV)
It is obvious from Psalm 82 itself that the “fallen angels” oppose the “Charity Doctrine” vehemently and lead men into ‘prosperity pursuits’ or Equivalent deceiving them, Verse:
“… For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places. …” (Ephesians 6:12, NKJV)
Peace to you
Sola Scriptura – Which Christian Rich Man can be Saved or Unsaved Mystery?
Two Verses for those who will inherit Heaven:.
i) Those Spiritually Poor
“… 3“Blessed are the poor in spirit, For theirs is the kingdom of heaven. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 5:3, NKJV)
ii) Those literally Poor financially
“… Then He lifted up His eyes toward His disciples, and said: “Blessed are you poor, For yours is the kingdom of God. …” (Luke 6:20, NKJV)
“… 21So that servant came and reported these things to his master. Then the master of the house, being angry, said to his servant, ‘Go out quickly into the STREETS and LANES of the city, and bring in here the POOR and the MAIMED and the LAME and the BLIND.’ 22And the servant said, ‘Master, it is done as you commanded, and still THERE IS ROOM.’ 23Then the master said to the servant, ‘Go out into the HIGHWAYS and HEDGES, and COMPEL THEM to COME IN, that MY HOUSE MAY BE FILLED. 24For I say to you that NONE of those men who were INVITED shall taste MY SUPPER.’ ” …” (Luke 14:21 – 24, NKJV)
Please notice the word “Poor”, “maimed” and “lame” in Verses above where Christ Spoke this Parable just after asking a Rich Pharisee to “Give Food” to the “Poor” to be “Repaid at the Resurrection of the Just”, Verses:
“…12Then He also said to him who invited Him, “When you give a dinner or a supper, do not ask your friends, your brothers, your relatives, NOR RICH NEIGHBORS, lest they also invite you back, and you be repaid. 13But when you give a feast, INVITE the POOR, THE MAIMED, THE LAME, THE BLIND. 14And you will be BLESSED, because they cannot repay you; for you shall be REPAID at the RESURRECTION OF THE JUST.” …” (Luke 14:12 – 14, NKJV)
This means that the “POOR, MAIMED and LAME” are the same ones mentioned in Luke 14:12 – 14 and Luke 12:21 – 24 where allegorical meanings are possible but the primary meaning is most likely true as even the Topic is about those who Help the Poor Vs those who waste their money helping the rich or enjoy life in ”Prosperity pursuits” say by over feasting with that money as Christ Explains in Luke 14:12 – 14. Can you see it?
Question
Can a Rich Be Saved but implied a Loss of Rewards if he doesn’t Share much or do the Charity Doctrine?
Reply
Firstly, please take note that God is “not” Counting Faithfulness by the ‘amount given’ or how many poor it can feed but by ‘Relative Measure’ so it’s Fair to All as these Verses Demonstrate one of the Greatest Giving to God even though in reality it us so little in amount and can hardly feed even a few poor as “CHRIST HIMSELF” Reveals this Secret of Judgment as follows:
“… 1And He looked up and saw the rich putting their gifts into the treasury, 2and He saw also a certain poor widow putting in two mites. 3So He [The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ] said, “Truly I say to you that this poor widow has put in MORE THAN ALL; 4for all these out of their abundance have put in offerings for God, but she out of HER POVERTY put in ALL THE LIVELIHOOD THAT SHE HAD. …” (Luke 21:1 – 4, NKJV)
Could be lesser Rewards or could be “loss of Salvation” as John Wesley (Methodist Churches Founder Prophesied) because in 1 Timothy 6:17 – 19 links to obtaining “Eternal Life” as this Word is there for this Command for God’s Will (as Matthew 7:18 – 23 can apply too as Failure to do God’s Will or Lawlessness in this aspect).
This Prophecy toward Rich Christians who hoard much may cause them to be “unsaved” (not just loss of rewards) is possible from these Bible Verses too:
“… 1Come now, YOU RICH, weep and howl for your miseries that are coming upon you! 2Your riches are corrupted, and your garments are moth-eaten. 3Your GOLD and SILVER are corroded, and their corrosion will be a witness against you and will EAT YOUR FLESH LIKE FIRE. You have HEAPED up TREASURE in the LAST DAYS. … 5You have lived on the earth in PLEASURE and LUXURY; you have fattened your hearts as in a DAY of SLAUGHTER. …” – Blessed St. James the Just, First Bishop of Jerusalem (James 5:1 – 3, 5, NKJV)
First Christianity Definition which I agree as it links perfectly with other Verses of the Charity Doctrine
This Definition of “Poor in Spirit” (Matthew 5:3) referring to the rich who share and the literally “Poor” (Luke 6:20) to inherit heaven was believed by this First Christianity Champion of Faith who is accepted by both Protestants and others especially since he strongly opposed iconography prayers in Christianity and himself has no recorded prayers to Mary, nor to the Saints nor to the Angels etc., To quote:
“… 401 8r,3 But he does not know that the Old Testament also says, “The poor and the rich have met together: but the Lord is the maker of them both.” 402 And the New Testament agrees, and pronounces a BLESSING on the POOR who are LITERALLY POOR, and in ANOTHER PASSAGE a BLESSING on the POOR in SPIRIT, so that BOTH PRONOUNCEMENTS have FORCE. Thus Peter can point with pride to his LITERAL POVERTY and say, “Silver and gold have I none, but what I have, I give thee; in the name of Jesus Christ, rise up and walk,” 403 (4) so that the BLESSING of the ACTUALLY POOR means NOTHING CONTRADICTORY to the BLESSING of the POOR IN SPIRIT. The “POOR in SPIRIT” are persons in RIGHTEOUS POSSESSION of PROPERTY, while the “poor” are the humble, of whom Christ said, “I was an hungered, and YE GAVE ME MEAT, thirsty, and YE GAVE me DRINK,” and so on 81,5 Next he explains, ‘These (i.e., the POOR in SPIRIT) ACTED of THEIR ABUNDANCE”; … And do you see how, in the Old and the New Testaments, the poor are called blessed for piety, and the rich are called blessed for righteousness? …” – Blessed St. Epiphanius, Bishop of Salamis and the ‘Hammer of Heretics’, (c. 310 AD – c. 403 AD, ‘MANICHAEANS’ , “Panarion or Medicine-Chest”, Point 62.10, Pages 308 – 309)
Source:
https://archive.org/stream/EpiphaniusPanarionBksIIIII1/Epiphanius%20-%20_Panarion_%20-%20Bks%20II%20%26%20III%20-%201_djvu.txt
Summary
Spiritually Poor rich Christians must do the Charity Doctrine as 1 Timothy 6:17 – 19 defines the “Poor in Spirit” for the Rich Christians as follows:
“… COMMAND those who are RICH … Let them DO GOOD, that they be RICH in GOOD WORKS, ready to GIVE, willing to SHARE, 19storing up for themselves a good FOUNDATION for the TIME to COME, that they MAY lay HOLD on ETERNAL LIFE. …” (1 Timothy 6:17 – 19, NKJV)
Christ’s Own Words regarding rich believers being either unsaved or loss of reward meaning not inheriting the Kingdom of Heaven due to not Doing God’s Will for earthly Money is often inferred from this set of Verses:
“… 9“And I say to you, MAKE FRIENDS FOR YOURSELVES by UNRIGHTEOUS [D]MAMMON, that when [e]you fail, they may receive you into an EVERLASTING HOME. 10He who is faithful in what is least is faithful also in much; and he who is unjust in what is least is unjust also in much. 11Therefore IF YOU HAVE NOT BEEN FAITHFUL IN THE UNRIGHTEOUS MAMMON, WHO WILL COMMIT TO YOUR TRUST THE TRUE RICHES? 12And if you have not been faithful in what is another man’s, who will give you what is your own? 13“No servant can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, or else he will be loyal to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and mammon.” …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 16:9 – 13, NKJV)
Blessed John Wesley Founder of Methodist Churches Prophesies a Fake Christianity based on this Bible Verse:
“… having a form of godliness but denying its power. And from such people turn away! …” (2 Timothy 3:5, NKJV)
Here is Blessed John Wesley’s Explanation, to quote:
‘… Toward the end of his life, Wesley’s sermons and writings began reflecting a growing concern for the future of “the people called Methodist.” The movement was numerically strong with about 50,000 in England, and the new American church was growing rapidly. However, Wesley saw signs of demise. A tour of Methodist work across Britain left him somewhat discouraged and pessimistic.
On Aug. 4, 1786, he wrote: “I am not afraid that the people called Methodists should ever cease to exist either in Europe or America. But I am afraid, lest they should only exist as a dead sect, having the form of religion without the power (2 Timothy 3:5). And this undoubtedly will be the case, unless they hold fast both the doctrine, spirit, and discipline with which they first set out.”
To Wesley, the most evident threat was the growing wealth of the Methodists. He believed that Christianity has within it the seeds of its own demise. Discipleship makes us more diligent and frugal, and as we become more diligent and frugal, wealth increases.
Wesley considered wealth and the failure to give the most serious threats to the Methodist movement in particular and Christianity in general. In 1789, Wesley noted that the Methodists had all but ignored the third point of his sermon on “The Use of Money,” which had been printed some 30 years earlier. He wrote:
“Of the three rules which are laid down … you may find many that observe the first rule, namely, ‘Gain all you can.’ You may find a few that observe the second, ‘Save all you can.’ But, how many have you found that observe the third rule, ‘Give all you can’? Have you reason to believe that 500 of these are to be found among 50,000 Methodists? And yet nothing can be more plain than that all who observe the first rules without the third will be twofold more the children of hell than ever they were before.”
Wesley’s own commitment to giving was consistent throughout his life. As a student at Oxford, he lived on 28 pounds a year. As his earnings increased to 30 and eventually to 120 pounds annually, he continued to live on the same 28 pounds. He told people that if at his death he had more than 10 pounds in his possession, they could call him a robber.
Wesley’s rules regarding wealth
Wesley wrote in 1786 in “Thoughts upon Methodism”:
“… the Methodists in every place grow diligent and frugal; consequently they increase in goods. Hence, they proportionately increase in pride, in anger, in the desire of the flesh, the desire of the eyes, and the pride of life. So, although the form of religion remains, the spirit is swiftly vanishing away.
“… What way, then, (I ask again) can we take, that our money may not sink us to the nethermost hell? There is one way, and there is no other under heaven. If those who ‘gain all they can,’ and ‘save all they can,’ will likewise ‘give all they can;’ then, the more they gain, the more they will grow in grace, and the more treasure they will lay up in heaven.”
Wesley’s sermon “The Use of Money” is a helpful starting point. The rules outlined are integral to his theological, ethical and missional agenda. …’
Source:
https://www.resourceumc.org/en/content/john-wesley-on-giving
A Warning:
“… 1Come now, YOU RICH, weep and howl for your miseries that are coming upon you! 2Your riches are corrupted, and your garments are moth-eaten. 3Your GOLD and SILVER are corroded, and their corrosion will be a witness against you and will EAT YOUR FLESH LIKE FIRE. You have HEAPED up TREASURE in the LAST DAYS. … 5You have lived on the earth in PLEASURE and LUXURY; you have fattened your hearts as in a DAY of SLAUGHTER. …”
– Blessed St. James the Just, First Bishop of Jerusalem (James 5:1 – 3, 5, NKJV)
Christ’s Own Words Warn the possibility of some rich Christians to be “unsaved” or the “loss of reward” to mean not getting a “Heavens level of Reward” in Verses below:
“… 9“And I say to you, MAKE FRIENDS FOR YOURSELVES by UNRIGHTEOUS [D]MAMMON, that when [e]you fail, they may receive you into an EVERLASTING HOME. 10He who is faithful in what is least is faithful also in much; and he who is unjust in what is least is unjust also in much. 11Therefore IF YOU HAVE NOT BEEN FAITHFUL IN THE UNRIGHTEOUS MAMMON, WHO WILL COMMIT TO YOUR TRUST THE TRUE RICHES? 12And if you have not been faithful in what is another man’s, who will give you what is your own? 13“No servant can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, or else he will be loyal to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and mammon.” …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 16:9 – 13, NKJV)
In another translation:
“… 9Here’s the lesson: USE YOUR WORLDLY RESOURCES to BENEFIT OTHERS AND MAKE FRIENDS. Then, when your possessions are gone, they will welcome you to an ETERNAL HOME. 10“If you are faithful in little things, you will be faithful in large ones. But if you are dishonest in little things, you won’t be honest with greater responsibilities. 11And IF YOU ARE UNTRUSTWORTHY ABOUT WORLDLY WEALTH, who will trust you with the TRUE RICHES OF HEAVEN? 12And if you are not faithful with other people’s things, why should you be trusted with things of your own? …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 16:9 – 12, NLT)
That’s why Christ Warned Clearly that following Him and entering Heaven type of Salvation is Hard for a Rich Man:
“… 21Jesus said to him, “IF you want to be PERFECT, go, SELL what YOU HAVE and GIVE to the POOR, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, FOLLOW ME.” 22But when the young man heard that saying, he went away SORROWFUL, for he had GREAT POSSESSIONS.23Then Jesus said to His disciples, “Assuredly, I say to you that it is HARD for a RICH MAN TO ENTER THE KINGDOM OF HEAVEN. 24And AGAIN I say to you, it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God. …” (Matthew 19:21 – 24, NKJV)
So why take the Risk?
They can be Saved if a “Lukewarm” Christian can be Saved or are unsaved if Lukewarm Christians are Unsaved as these Verses Demonstrate by Christ Himself as He Prophesied toward the Church at Laodicea but can be Applied to any Christian Church which also fits such traits:
The “Lukewarm Church” is the “Prosperity Gospel” Church which “… says, ‘I am rich, have become wealthy, and have need of nothing’ …” (as no other sin is mentioned of them say sexual immorality or anything else as Christ Warned the other Churches in Revelation) but yet Christ Calls them to “Repent” (meaning that they’re not necessarily Saved) in Verses below where they are exhorted to buy “spiritual gold refined in fire” to be truly “rich with Eternal Treasure in the heavens” with the “Charity Doctrine Works” (e.g. Luke 12:30 – 34, Matthew 6:1 – 5) instead of the “earthly gold” they had, Verses:
“… 14“And to the [i]angel of the church [j]of the Laodiceans write, ‘These things says the Amen, the Faithful and True Witness, the Beginning of the creation of God: 15“I KNOW YOUR WORKS, that you are neither cold nor hot. I could wish you were cold or hot. 16So then, because YOU ARE LUKEWARM, and neither [k]cold nor hot, I will vomit you out of My mouth. 17Because you say, ‘I AM RICH, HAVE BECOME WEALTHY, and HAVE NEED OF NOTHING’—and do not know that YOU ARE WRETCHED, MISERABLE, POOR, BLIND, AND NAKED— 18I counsel you to BUY FROM ME GOLD REFINED IN THE FIRE, that YOU MAY BE RICH; and white garments, that you may be clothed, that the shame of your nakedness may not be revealed; and anoint your eyes with eye salve, that you may see. 19As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten.[l] Therefore be [m]zealous and repent. 20Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and dine with him, and he with Me. 21To him who overcomes I will grant to sit with Me on My throne, as I also overcame and sat down with My Father on His throne.22“He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches.” ’ …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Revelation 3:14 – 22, NKJV)
Peace to you
What’s God’s Will with Holy Scripture? Charity Doctrine Mystery
Faith is not Theory Alone but Theory with Practice, i.e. “Faith with Good Works” and the end of Faith is not Prosperity but Good Works:
Fulfillment of Scripture in our lives is the last line of this Verse: “Unto All Good Works”.
Unfulfillment of Scripture in our lives is implied by the last line as: “Not Doing Good Works”.
Please Read these Verses Carefully (in image too):
“… 15and that from childhood you have known the Holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus.16All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for [c]instruction in righteousness, 17that the MAN OF GOD may be COMPLETE, THOROUGHLY EQUIPPED FOR EVERY GOOD WORK. …” (2 Timothy 3:16 – 17, NKJV)
For example: For Rich Christians, which “Good Works” is “Holy Scripture” Pointing to which are relevant for “Eternal Life”? The “Charity Doctrine” Lifestyle, Verses:
“… COMMAND those who are RICH … Let them DO GOOD, that they be RICH in GOOD WORKS, ready to GIVE, willing to SHARE, 19storing up for themselves a good FOUNDATION for the TIME to COME, that they MAY lay HOLD on ETERNAL LIFE. …” (1 Timothy 6:17 – 19, NKJV)
Please don’t be Deceived by doing something else or wasting your time and money on things which are “not” Written “nor” are Praised by Holy Scripture.
Why is this Important? Because only those “who do the Will of the Father enter the Kingdom of Heaven” where Christ Warned that “Many” (not few) among so called Christians too will be rejected on that Day even though they did ‘Christian Ministry’ of ‘Prophesying, Casting out Demons & other Miracles’ in “His Name”, Verses:
“… 21“Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but HE WHO DOES THE WILL OF MY FATHER IN HEAVEN. 22Many will say to Me in that day, ‘Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in Your name, cast out demons in Your name, and done many wonders in Your name?’ 23And then I will declare to them, ‘I never knew you; depart from Me, you who practice lawlessness! …’” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 7:20 – 23, NKJV)
Judgment Day Verses agree in that the Primary “Will of the Father” is to do the Almsgiving or Charity Doctrine Lifestyle as ‘nothing else is mentioned’ in Verses below too (“Context”):
“… 34Then shall the King say unto them on his right hand, Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world: 35For I was an hungred, and ye gave me meat: I was thirsty, and ye gave me drink: I was a stranger, and ye took me in: 36Naked, and ye clothed me: I was sick, and ye visited me: I was in prison, and ye came unto me. 37Then shall the righteous answer him, saying, Lord, when saw we thee an hungred, and fed thee? or thirsty, and gave thee drink? 38When saw we thee a stranger, and took thee in? or naked, and clothed thee? 39Or when saw we thee sick, or in prison, and came unto thee? 40And the King shall answer and say unto them, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 25:34 – 40, KJV)
Please don’t be deceived. Let’s “Follow Written Scripture”.
Peace to you
What is Greater than Faith? Love of God Mystery
The Bible Verse below (in image too) makes this comparison and so we ought to compare these as well following the Bible:
“… And now abide FAITH, hope, LOVE, these three; but the GREATEST OF THESE IS LOVE. … ” – 1 Corinthians 13:13, NKJV)
Why is this Important?
1. All Right Faith in Knowledge doesn’t Save if Agape is not Present:
An ‘all right accurate faith which can move mountains’ (as only an Right Doctrine Faith can move mountains) can still be present in a person with “no” Agape/Love of God:
“… and THOUGH I HAVE ALL FAITH, so that I could remove mountains, but have not love, I am nothing. …” (1 Corinthians 13:2, NKJV)
2. All Christian Missionary Work & Martyrdom doesn’t Save if Agape is not present:
A Christian can die a martyr or even do missions work till they give all their goods to the poor but still have “no” Agape/Love of God:
“… 3And though I bestow all my goods to feed the poor, and though I give my body [a]to be burned, but have not love, it profits me nothing. …” (1 Corinthians 13:3, NKJV)
It’s a beautiful thing in the English language that the “Old English” word for “Love” is “Charity” as per image. The “Love” meant here in the Original Koine Greek is “Agape” which uniquely refers to the “Love of God”.
Conclusion – What is the “Love of God”?
The “Love of God” is nothing else than the “Charity Doctrine” according to Bible Verses below:
1) “Love of God” is Described as “Almsgiving as Prayer in Action” in Verses below as the “True Works of Faith”:
“… 14What does it profit, my brethren, if someone says he HAS FAITH BUT DOES NOT HAVE WORKS? CAN FAITH SAVE HIM? 15If a brother or sister is naked and destitute of daily food, 16and 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? 17Thus also FAITH BY ITSELF, IF IT DOES NOT HAVE WORKS, IS DEAD. …” (James 2:8 – 17, NKJV)
2) “Love of God” is Described as the Charity Doctrine toward one another in material sharing & giving in “Action” in Verses below as the way the Follow Christ in the ‘laying down our lives for the brethren’ meaning
“… 16By this WE KNOW LOVE, because He laid down His life for us. And we also OUGHT TO LAY DOWN OUR LIVES FOR THE BRETHREN. 17But WHOEVER HAS THIS WORLD’S GOODS, and SEES HIS BROTHER IN NEED, AND SHUTS UP HIS HEART FROM HIM, HOW DOES THE LOVE OF GOD ABIDE IN HIM? 18My little children, let us NOT LOVE IN WORD or IN TONGUE, BUT IN DEED AND IN TRUTH …” (1 John 3:16 – 18, NKJV)
Note: One way to ‘lay down our lives is through martyrdom’. However, not every Christian gets to be martyed for the faith. As this set of Verses describe, an ‘equivalent’ to laying down our live would be to willingly suffer to provide for the Brethren which is “Love in Action” and considered as equivalent to a life of ‘martyrdom of laying down our lives’ to do this “Charity Doctrine”.
3) “Love of God” is Described as the “Work of Christ” in Verses below to refer only to a life fulfilling the “Charity Doctrine” part of fulfilling the Earthly needs of the brethren as the example of Epaphroditus
toward Apostle St. Paul Reveals which itself puts him very close to the level of Apostle Paul himself as it is Written “… EPAPHRODITUS, MY BROTHER, FELLOW WORKER, and FELLOW SOLDIER, …”.
“… 25Yet I considered it necessary to send to you EPAPHRODITUS, MY BROTHER, FELLOW WORKER, and FELLOW SOLDIER, but your messenger and THE ONE WHO MINISTERED TO MY NEED; 26since he was longing for you all, and was distressed because you had heard that he was sick. 27For INDEED HE WAS SICK ALMOST UNTO DEATH; but God had mercy on him, and not only on him but on me also, lest I should have sorrow upon sorrow. 28Therefore I sent him the more eagerly, that when you see him again you may rejoice, and I may be less sorrowful. 29Receive him therefore in the Lord with all gladness, and HOLD SUCH MEN IN ESTEEM; 30because FOR THE WORK OF CHRIST HE CAME CLOSE TO DEATH, [h]not regarding his life, to SUPPLY WHAT WAS LACKING IN YOUR SERVICE TOWARD ME. …” (Philippians 2:25 – 30, NKJV)
This is the “Law of Christ” Lifestyle, Verse:
“… BEAR ONE ANOTHER’S BURDENS, and so FULFILL the LAW OF CHRIST. …” (Galatians 6:2, NKJV)
4) “Love of God” to lay down one’s life for his friends via the Charity Doctrine of providing for them or dying for them is called the “Greatest Love of All”
“… 13GREATER LOVE has no one than this, than to LAY DOWN ONE’S LIFE FOR HIS FRIENDS. 14You are My friends if you do whatever I command you. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (John 15:13 – 14, NKJV)
How to ‘lay down our lives for the friends’ to Fulfill this ‘Greatest Love which God Wills’? To do the “Charity Doctrine” of Sharing and Giving with “this world’s goods” toward our friends/brethren which is a way to emulate His Life & Death for us, as this only Biblical Definition Reveals as it is Written:
“… 16By this we know love, because He laid down His life for us. And WE ALSO OUGHT TO LAY DOWN OUR LIVES FOR THE BRETHREN. 17But whoever has THIS WORLD’S GOODS, and sees his brother in need, and shuts up his heart from him, HOW DOES THE LOVE OF GOD ABIDE IN HIM? 18My little children, let us not LOVE IN WORD OR IN TONGUE, but IN DEED AND IN TRUTH. …” (1 John 3:16 – 18, NKJV)
5) “Love of God” is Doing Ministry with a Charitable Lifestyle
Simple Doctrine Biblically but Sounds Hard? That’s why only a “few” find it or can fulfill it by God’s Grace:
“… 13“Enter by the narrow gate; for wide is the gate and broad is the way that leads to destruction, and there are many who go in by it. 14[c]Because narrow is the gate and [d]DIFFICULT is the way which LEADS TO LIFE, and there are FEW WHO FIND IT. … 21“Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father in heaven. 22MANY will say to Me in that day, ‘Lord, Lord, have we NOT PROPHESIED in Your name, CAST OUT DEMONS in Your name, and DONE MANY WONDERS in Your name?’ 23And then I will declare to them, ‘I NEVER KNEW YOU; depart from Me, you who practice LAWLESSNESS!’ …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 7:13 – 14, 21 – 23, NKJV)
Please notice carefully that ‘Casting out demons, Prophesying and doing wonders/miracles’ Ministry in His Name did not necessarily qualify as “Good Works” which “God Wills” because the “Many” Denied in Verses above did that but yet are Denied for “Lawlessness” (which can refer to any breaking of the New Testament Verses/Commands).
In Verses below, Apostle St. Paul wrote that God Allows pastors to receive “their living” (or “needs”) from the Gospel money collection but not prosperity as this can be equivalent to robbing God and the poor to whom the money ought to be given, Verses:
“… 14Even so the Lord has commanded that those who preach the gospel should live from the gospel. 15But I have used none of these things, nor have I written these things that it should be done so to me; … 18What is my reward then? That when I preach the gospel, I may present the gospel of Christ without charge, that I may not abuse my authority in the gospel. …” (1 Corinthians 9:14 – 15, 18, NKJV)
“… 33I have coveted no one’s silver or gold or apparel. 34Yes, you yourselves know that these hands have provided for my necessities, and for those who were with me. 35I have shown you in every way, by laboring like this, that you must support the weak. And remember the words of the Lord Jesus, that He said, ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive. …” – Blessed St. Paul the Great Apostle of Christ (Acts 20:32 – 35, NKJV
Merchandising the Gospel causes a person to be unsaved as Prophesied and Warned in these Verses:
“… By COVETOUSNESS they will EXPLOIT YOU with deceptive words; for a long time their judgment has not been idle, and their destruction does not slumber. …” (2 Peter 2:3, NKJV)
Note: Deceptive Words can be for example ‘… God Will make you rich …’ and then they ‘… Exploit you …’ by receiving money from the deceived person who thinks by giving to such a person who said that will truly make them rich. Can you see it?
“… For we are not, as so MANY, PEDDLING the WORD of GOD; but as of sincerity, but as from God, we speak in the sight of God in Christ …” (2 Corinthians 2:17, NKJV)
This Verse clearly Reveals that “Many” (not few) who will “Peddle” the “Word of God” which means to “sell for making Prosperity beyond needs” from God’s Word.
They will give strange excuses like ‘… You must pay a high price to buy God’s things to honour it …’ while Christ Commanded it to be given Free in Matthew 10:8 if we really honour God’s Things. In other words, Matthew 10:8 (below) clearly Proves that to honour more God’s Things, we ought to Give it for Free:
“… Freely you have received, freely give. …” – God in Flesh, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 10:8, NKJV)
Please be careful of Preachers who speak words of “Blessings” to refer to “God Will make you rich or Equivalent promises” because it is Warned against such Preaching in Verse below strongly:
“… For neither at any time did we use FLATTERING WORDS, as you know, NOR A CLOAK FOR COVETOUSNESS—God is witness. …” (1 Thessalonians 4:8, NKJV)
Yes, it’s not a small thing as the “Covetous” (i.e. those who love money/prosperity or equivalent) will “not” inherit the Kingdom of God and is equivalent to an “Idolater”, Verses:
“…For this you know, that no fornicator, unclean person, nor COVETEOUS man, who is an idolater, has any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and God. …” (Ephesians 5:5, NKJV)
“…Therefore put to death your members which are on the earth: fornication, uncleanness, passion, evil desire, and COVETEOUSNESS, which is idolatry. …” (Colossians 3:5, NKJV)
Everyone thinks that they don’t love money but actually we might be lovers of money if we love prosperity and the “Doctrine of Godliness” in Verses below (1 Timothy 6:3) clearly Teaches “Contentment” and not ‘faith for prosperity/money’ & says those who do it have “erred from the faith” (hence possibly are ‘unsaved’); Yes, isn’t the “Prosperity Gospel” teaching “… GODLINESS is a MEANS OF GAIN …” where 1 Timothy 6:5 calls those who teach such as ‘not Truth Speakers’ but “…useless wranglings of men of corrupt minds and destitute of the truth …”and the “… DESIRE TO BE RICH …” (1 Timothy 6:9) which is different from the “… LOVE OF MONEY …” (1 Timothy 6:10) are both “sin” & causes one to “… STRAY from the FAITH in their greediness …” (hence possibly ‘unsaved’, 1 Timothy 6:10).
Can you see it?
Please read these Verses (below) for yourself to learn the Biblical ‘Doctrine of Godliness’:
“…3If anyone teaches otherwise and does not consent to wholesome words, even the words of our Lord Jesus Christ, and to the [a]DOCTRINE which accords with GODLINESS, … 5[b]useless wranglings of men of corrupt minds and destitute of the truth, who suppose that GODLINESS is a MEANS OF GAIN. [c]From such withdraw yourself. 6Now GODLINESS with CONTENTMENT is GREAT GAIN. 7For we brought nothing into this world, [d]and it is certain we can carry nothing out. 8And having food and clothing, with these we shall be content. 9But those DESIRE TO BE RICH fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and harmful lusts which drown men in destruction and perdition. 10For the LOVE OF MONEY is a root of all kinds of evil, for which some have STRAYED from the FAITH in their greediness, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows. …” (1 Timothy 6:3, 5 – 10, NKJV)
There’s “no” such thing as faith to get worldly things for “Prosperity beyond need” because it contradicts this Verse clearly:
“… Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. …” (1 John 2:15, NKJV)
False Teachers Prophesied in the End Times among Christians is chiefly referring to a ‘Prosperity Gospel’ where by “… 3By COVETOUSNESS THEY WILL EXPLOIT YOU with DECEPTIVE WORDS …” according to Verses below by which “MANY” will follow their destructive ways as it is Prophesied below:
“… 1But there were also FALSE PROPHETS among the people, even as there will be FALSE TEACHERS AMONG YOU, who will secretly bring in destructive heresies, even denying the Lord who bought them, and bring on themselves swift destruction. 2And MANY WILL FOLLOW THEIR DESTRUCTIVE WAYS, because of whom the way of truth will be blasphemed. 3By COVETOUSNESS THEY WILL EXPLOIT YOU with DECEPTIVE WORDS; for a long time their judgment has not been idle, and their destruction [a]does not slumber. …” (2 Peter 2:1 – 3, NKJV)
If someone says that 2 Peter 2:1 – 3 doesn’t refer to a “Prosperity Gospel”, then look around you and see which “… FALSE TEACHERS AMONG YOU, …” (not Unbelievers but among Christians who will be denied as per Matthew 7:18 – 23) is referred to in 2 Peter 1 above of whom “… MANY WILL FOLLOW THEIR DESTRUCTIVE WAYS, …” (2 Peter 1:3) where their common trait is to Preach a Prosperity Gospel which Holy Scripture Describes as “… 3By COVETOUSNESS THEY WILL EXPLOIT YOU with DECEPTIVE WORDS …” (2 Peter 2:3). Can you see it?
That’s why Blessed John Wesley Prophesied likewise regarding this Verse, to quote:
“… having a FORM OF GODLINESS but DENYING ITS POWER. And from such people TURN AWAY! …” (2 Timothy 3:5, NKJV)
Here is Blessed John Wesley’s Explanation, to quote:
“… I am not afraid that the people called Methodists should ever cease to exist either in Europe or America. But I am afraid, lest they should only exist as a dead sect, having the FORM OF RELIGION WITHOUT THE POWER [2 Timothy 3:5]. And this undoubtedly will be the case, unless they hold fast both the doctrine, spirit, and discipline with which they first set out. … “Of the three rules which are laid down … you may find many that observe the first rule, namely, ‘Gain all you can.’ You may find a few that observe the second, ‘Save all you can.’ But, how many have you found that OBSERVE THE THIRD RULE, ‘GIVE ALL YOU CAN’? Have you reason to believe that 500 of these are to be found among 50,000 Methodists? And yet nothing can be more plain than that all who observe the first rules WITHOUT THE THIRD WILL BE TWOFOLD MORE THE CHILDREN OF HELL than ever they were before.” … “… the Methodists in every place grow diligent and frugal; consequently they increase in goods. Hence, they proportionately increase in pride, in anger, in the desire of the flesh, the desire of the eyes, and the pride of life. So, ALTHOUGH THE FORM OF RELIGION REMAINS, the SPIRIT IS SWIFTLY VANISHING AWAY. … “… What way, then, (I ask again) can we take, THAT OUR MONEY MAY NOT SINK US TO THE NETHERMOST HELL? There is one way, and there is no other under heaven. If those who ‘gain all they can,’ and ‘save all they can,’ will likewise ‘give all they can;’ then, the more they gain, the more they will grow in grace, and the more treasure they will lay up in heaven.” [Luke 12:30 – 34] …” – Blessed John Wesley, Founder of the Methodist Churches and a Key Champion of the Protestant Faith who Preached & Lived the New Testament Charity Doctrine
Source:
https://www.resourceumc.org/en/content/john-wesley-on-giving
All these Verses point to only the True Disciples of Christ who will find the Grace to fulfill these Verses in their lives without which one cannot be a disciple of Christ even (so every “True Discipleship in Christianity” must teach and practice this), to quote:
“… So then, none of you can be My disciple who does not give up all his own possessions. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 14:33, NASB)
Or in another translation:
“… So likewise, whoever of you does not forsake all that he has cannot be My disciple …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 14:33, NKJV)
P/S: Actual New Testament Biblical Examples
Context Highlighted in these Verses: Please take note how in each of these cases, the Word of God Specifically mentions or Praises the “Charity Doctrine Lifestyle” in each of these persons who are “truly Christians”. In other words, if the Bible honours them specifically by mentioning this part, we ought to understand this as fulfilling the Will of God to do Good Works especially Charitable Deeds likewise too, Verse:
“… 16having a good conscience, that when they defame you as evildoers, those who revile your GOOD CONDUCT IN CHRIST may be ashamed. 17For IT IS BETTER, if it is the WILL OF GOD, to SUFFER FOR DOING GOOD than for doing evil. …” (1 Peter 3:16 – 17, NKJV)
Yes the higher call of faith is not only to believe in Him but to ‘suffer for Him’ in Doing Good as Verse above describes the Context for Verse below too:
“… For to you it has been granted on behalf of Christ, NOT ONLY TO BELIEVE IN HIM, but ALSO TO SUFFER FOR HIS SAKE, …” (Philippians 1:29, NKJV)
i) The living Widow example in the Bible
“… 9Do not let a widow under sixty years old be taken into the number, and not unless she has been the wife of one man, 10WELL REPORTED FOR GOOD WORKS: if she has BROUGHT UP CHILDREN, if SHE HAS LODGED STRANGERS, if she has washed the saints’ feet, if she has RELIEVED THE AFFLICTED, IF SHE HAS DILIGENTLY FOLLOWED EVERY GOOD WORK. 11But [c]refuse the younger widows; for when they have begun to grow wanton against Christ, they desire to marry, 12having condemnation because they have cast off their first [d]faith. …” (1 Timothy 5:9 – 12, NKJV)
ii) The Dead Christian example in the Bible
“… 36At Joppa there was a certain disciple named TABITHA, which is translated Dorcas. This woman was FULL OF GOOD WORKS AND CHARITABLE DEEDS which SHE DID. 37But it happened in those days that she became sick and died. … 40But Peter put them all out, and knelt down and prayed. And turning to the body he said, “Tabitha, arise.” And she opened her eyes, and when she saw Peter she sat up. 41Then he gave her his hand and lifted her up; and when he had called the saints and widows, he presented her alive. 42And it became known throughout all Joppa, and many believed on the Lord. …” (Acts 9:36 – 37, 40 – 42, NKJV)
iii) A Rich Christian Example who may be Saved
Zacchaeus gave “half of his goods to the poor” and on top of that restored fourfold whatever he wronged, and following this immediately Christ Responded that Salvation has come and that he is Saved, Verses:
“… 5And when Jesus came to the place, He looked up [a]and saw him, and said to him, “Zacchaeus, [b]make haste and come down, for today I must stay at your house.” 6So he [c]made haste and came down, and received Him joyfully. 7But when they saw it, they all [d]complained, saying, “He has gone to be a guest WITH A MAN WHO IS A SINNER.” 8Then Zacchaeus stood and said to the Lord, “LOOK, LORD, I GIVE HALF OF MY GOODS TO THE POOR; AND IF I HAVE TAKEN ANYTHING FROM ANYONE BY FALSE ACCUSATION, I RESTORE FOURFOLD.” 9And JESUS SAID TO HIM, “TODAY SALVATION HAS COME TO THIS HOUSE, because he also is a son of Abraham; 10for THE SON OF MAN has come TO SEEK AND TO SAVE THAT WHICH WAS LOST.” …” (Luke 19:5 – 9, NKJV)
This is how Salvation looks like to a rich man who truly believes in Christ (a Biblical example above) agreeing perfectly in the Context of Verses below which quote the Charity Doctrine of Giving/Sharing earthly Wealth to the Context of laying hold to “Eternal Life” as a “Command” for “Rich Christians” for their Sanctification, Verses:
“… COMMAND those who are RICH … Let them DO GOOD, that they be RICH in GOOD WORKS, ready to GIVE, willing to SHARE, 19storing up for themselves a good FOUNDATION for the TIME to COME, that they MAY lay HOLD on ETERNAL LIFE. …” (1 Timothy 6:17 – 19, NKJV)
iv) Perfect Christians Example
Please notice that to ‘keep Holy’ or even to ‘Keep all the Torah (Law) from the Youth’, Human Will is sufficient as this rich young ruler who came to Christ did it as Christ Himself approves him to do it without commenting that this young man failed in any aspect, to quote:
“… 16Now behold, one came and said to Him, “Good Teacher, WHAT GOOD THING SHALL I DO that I MAY HAVE ETERNAL LIFE?” 17So He said to him, “Why do you call Me good? No one is good but One, that is, God. But IF YOU WANT TO ENTER INTO LIFE, KEEP THE COMMANDMENTS.” 18He said to Him, “Which ones?” Jesus said, “‘You shall not murder,’ ‘You shall not commit adultery,’ ‘You shall not steal,’ ‘You shall not bear false witness,’ 19‘Honor your father and your mother,’ and, ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ ” 20The young man said to Him, “ALL THESE THINGS I HAVE KEPT FROM MY YOUTH. WHAT DO I STILL LACK?” …” (Matthew 19:16 – 20, NKJV)
In other words, in Verses above, we see that a young man could keep all the Torah (Law) without even following Christ. So keeping Holy is not the Proof of following Christ as in Christ’s Reply (next, below) we see that firstly Christ never Said that this young man didn’t keep any part of the Torah (as He Pointed to the hypocritical Pharisees) but rather points clearly to the answer “… WHAT DO I STILL LACK?” …” (Matthew 19:20) above as the “Torah’s Weightier Matter” of the “Charity Doctrine” part of “Giving to the Poor” & “Following Christ” (‘faith’) as these Verses Record Christ’s Reply so clearly as follows:
“… 20The young man said to Him, “All these things I have kept [g]from my youth. What do I STILL LACK?” 21JESUS said to him, “IF you want to be PERFECT, go, SELL what YOU HAVE and GIVE to the POOR, and YOU WILL HAVE TREASURE IN HEAVEN; and come, FOLLOW ME.” 22But when the young man heard that saying, he went away SORROWFUL, for he had GREAT POSSESSIONS.23Then JESUS said to His disciples, “Assuredly, I say to you that it is HARD for a RICH MAN TO ENTER THE KINGDOM OF HEAVEN. 24And AGAIN I say to you, it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God. …” (Matthew 19:21 – 24, NKJV) …” (Matthew 19:20 – 22, NKJV)
Note: For Perfection, Christ doesn’t say, Give to the Church but rather “Give to the Poor” from ‘what you have’ in Verses above (Matthew 19:21) because “Giving to the Poor” is equivalent to “Giving to God” according to the Bible Verse below:
“… He who has PITY ON THE POOR LENDS TO THE LORD, And He will pay back what he has given. …” (Proverbs 19:17, NKJV
The Bible doesn’t explicitly Explain the differences between the Thirty, Sixty Vs Hundredfold ones but the Verses below is the only set where Christ Himself Reveals the Secret of the “HUNDREDFOLD” ones as follows (please notice the Word “HUNDREDFOLD” carefully in Matthew 19:29 below):
“… 27Then Peter answered and said to Him, “See, we have LEFT ALL and FOLLOWED YOU. Therefore what shall we have?” 28So Jesus said to them, “Assuredly I say to you, that in the REGENERATION, when the Son of Man sits on the throne of His glory, you who have followed Me will also sit on twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel. 29And EVERYONE who has LEFT HOUSES or brothers or sisters or father or mother or WIFE or children or LANDS, for MY NAME’S SAKE, shall RECEIVE a HUNDREDFOLD, and INHERIT ETERNAL LIFE. 30But MANY who are FIRST will be LAST, and the LAST FIRST. …” (Matthew 19:27 – 30, NKJV)
Note: Did you also notice that to attain to the “HUNDREDFOLD” Level of Inheritance of His Kingdom, Christ does “not” point to Number of Converts or all that but only these aspects:
i. LEFT HOUSES or Lands for doing the Gospel Work which implies using Finances to do the Gospel Commands. The direct Context of the Verses above is the continued challenge of Christ to the Rich Man to attain toward Perfection by “… Selling what he has and giving to the Poor …” as Christ Spoke a few Verses earlier in Matthew 19:18 – 26.
ii. Left Family for doing the Gospel Work
iii. The Context of “left wife” in Verse above implies both the meaning of ‘remaning unmarried’ (hence the concept of remaining unmarried for the Gospel Work’s Sake as First Christianity tradition taught) and also literally leaving one’s wife to do Gospel Work. That’s why being “unmarried” and doing Gospel Commands is better than marrying and doing Gospel Commands as Apostle St. Paul himself Wrote in Verse below:
“… 28 But even if you do marry, you have not sinned; and if a virgin marries, she has not sinned. Nevertheless such will have TROUBLE IN THE FLESH, but I WOULD SPARE YOU. … 32But I want you to be without care. He who is UNMARRIED CARES FOR THE THINGS OF THE LORD—how he may PLEASE THE LORD. 33But HE WHO IS MARRIED CARES about the THINGS OF THE WORLD—how he may PLEASE HIS WIFE. … 38So then he who GIVES HER IN MARRIAGE DOES WELL, but he WHO DOES NOT GIVE HER IN MARRIAGE DOES BETTER. …” (1 Corinthians 7:28, 32 – 33, 38, NKJV)
iv. Based on these aspects Christ Reveals Majestically that the “first will be last” and “last first” implying hierarchy in His Kingdom for both “doing and teaching” others “His Direct New Testament Commands”:
“… 19Whoever therefore breaks one of the least of these commandments, and teaches men so, shall be called least in the kingdom of heaven; but whoever does and teaches them, he shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven. 20For I say to you, that UNLESS YOUR RIGHTEOUSNESS EXCEEDS THE RIGHTEOUSNESS OF THE SCRIBES AND PHARISEES, YOU WILL BY NO MEANS ENTER THE KINGDOM OF HEAVEN. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 5:19 – 20, NKJV)
Many Christians or converts fail to become the thirty, sixty or hundredfold fruit because they’re too busy seeking after to “… Become Rich …” and are “… Worried about this life being caught up with worldly pursuits …” as Christ Warned below:
“… but the WORRIES OF THE WORLD, and the DECEITFULNESS OF RICHES, and the DESIRES FOR OTHER THINGS enter in and choke the word, and it becomes UNFRUITFUL. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ, God in Flesh (Mark 4:19, NASB)
Summary – Do We Really know the God of the Bible?
Regardless, one thing is certainly clear Biblically as Blessed Prophet Jeremiah who was the Prophet Sent with the Message regarding ‘what it means to know God and seek Him with all of one’s heart’ (e.g. Jeremiah 29:13, Jeremiah 9:23 – 24) clearly Revealed that “knowing God” is inseparable from “Doing the Charity Doctrine” of Giving and Sharing with one another especially to the “Poor, Widows and Orphans” (Jeremiah 22:15 – 17) and thus these are certainly God’s Favourites, Verses:
“… 23This is what the LORD says: “Let no wise man boast of his wisdom, nor let the mighty man boast of his might, nor a rich man boast of his riches; 24but LET THE ONE WHO BOASTS BOAST OF THIS, THAT HE UNDERSTANDS AND KNOWS ME, that I AM THE LORD WHO EXERCISES [F]MERCY, JUSTICE, AND RIGHTEOUSNESS ON THE EARTH; for I DELIGHT IN THESE THINGS,” declares the LORD. … 15“Do you become a king because you are competing in cedar? Did your father not eat and drink And DO JUSTICE AND RIGHTEOUSNESS? Then it was well for him. 16“HE PLED THE CAUSE OF THE AFFLICTED and THE POOR, then it was well. IS THAT NOT WHAT IT MEANS TO KNOW ME?” DECLARES THE LORD. 17“But your eyes and your heart Are intent only upon your own dishonest gain, And on shedding innocent blood, And on practicing oppression and extortion.” … And YOU WILL SEEK ME AND FIND ME when YOU SEARCH FOR ME WITH ALL YOUR HEART. …” (Jeremiah 9:23 – 24, 22:15 – 17, 29:13, NASB)
Note: These Verses may be Combined because they Speak of the ‘Same Context’ of “Knowing God” by the same Blessed Prophet Jeremiah himself.
Grand Conclusion
How to live as a Christian? Let’s emulate the lifestyle of these New Testament Heroes of Faith and those who follow their example as these set of Verses exhort:
“… 17Brethren, join in FOLLOWING MY EXAMPLE, and NOTE THOSE WHO SO WALK, as you have us for a PATTERN. 18For MANY WALK, of whom I have told you often, and now tell you even weeping, that they are the ENEMIES OF THE CROSS OF CHRIST: 19whose END IS DESTRUCTION, whose GOD IS THEIR BELLY, and whose glory is in their shame—who SET THEIR MIND ON EARTHLY THINGS. …” – Blessed St. Paul the Great Apostle of Christ (Philippians 3:17 – 19, NKJV)
Please notice carefully that Apostle St. Paul clearly warns of “many” who are called “enemies of the Cross of Christ” till “destruction” among ‘Christians’ (hence ‘unsaved’) because they “didn’t follow the pattern seen in St. Paul” in the context of “their god is their belly” & “setting their mind on earthly things” which is exactly what the “Prosperity Gospel” teaches you to ‘get that by faith’. Can you see it?
Example: To Say that I can love to be rich because Christ became poor is the same as saying I can commit fornication because Christ has Kept Holy. In other Words, we ought to follow Christ in all aspects including keeping away from this ‘Love of Money’ which is the Biggest Threat of Faith as these Verses have demonstrated.
Let’s follow the Pattern of Faith Set forth in New Testament Verses because:
“… There is no wisdom or understanding Or counsel against the LORD. …” (Proverbs 21:30, NKJV)
Most Importantly, LORD JESUS CHRIST Himself referred to the “Justice” and “Love of God” which He Referred to not as the tithing which the Pharisees were very good at (in Luke 11:42 below) but rather as referring to something which they didn’t do, namely GIVING TO CHARITY/ALMS from “what they have”. Please notice carefully that Christ Commands that outwardly clean/holy Pharisee to Give ALMS (CHARITY) from “what he has” as the phrase “… 41But rather GIVE ALMS of [l]SUCH THINGS AS YOU HAVE; then indeed ALL THINGS ARE CLEAN TO YOU …” (in Luke 11:41) below means probably because when they did Charity apart from being insincere (e.g. Matthew 6:1 – 2), they never included “their own money” to do it.
“… 39Then the Lord said to him, “Now you Pharisees make the OUTSIDE OF THE CUP and DISH CLEAN, but YOUR INWARD PART is full of [k]GREED and WICKEDNESS. 40FOOLISH ones! Did not He who made the outside make the inside also? 41But rather GIVE ALMS of [l]SUCH THINGS AS YOU HAVE; then indeed ALL THINGS ARE CLEAN TO YOU. 42“But woe to you Pharisees! For you tithe mint and rue and all manner of herbs, and pass by JUSTICE and the LOVE of GOD These you ought to have done, without leaving the others undone. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 11:39 – 45, NKJV)
Peace to you
Blessed John Wesley Founder of Methodist Churches Prophesies a Fake Christianity
Bible Verse (in image too in full):
“… having a form of godliness but denying its power. And from such people turn away! …” (2 Timothy 3:5, NKJV)
Here is Blessed John Wesley’s Explanation, to quote:
‘… Toward the end of his life, Wesley’s sermons and writings began reflecting a growing concern for the future of “the people called Methodist.” The movement was numerically strong with about 50,000 in England, and the new American church was growing rapidly. However, Wesley saw signs of demise. A tour of Methodist work across Britain left him somewhat discouraged and pessimistic.
On Aug. 4, 1786, he wrote: “I am not afraid that the people called Methodists should ever cease to exist either in Europe or America. But I am afraid, lest they should only exist as a dead sect, having the form of religion without the power. And this undoubtedly will be the case, unless they hold fast both the doctrine, spirit, and discipline with which they first set out.”
To Wesley, the most evident threat was the growing wealth of the Methodists. He believed that Christianity has within it the seeds of its own demise. Discipleship makes us more diligent and frugal, and as we become more diligent and frugal, wealth increases.
Wesley considered wealth and the failure to give the most serious threats to the Methodist movement in particular and Christianity in general. In 1789, Wesley noted that the Methodists had all but ignored the third point of his sermon on “The Use of Money,” which had been printed some 30 years earlier. He wrote:
“Of the three rules which are laid down … you may find many that observe the first rule, namely, ‘Gain all you can.’ You may find a few that observe the second, ‘Save all you can.’ But, how many have you found that observe the third rule, ‘Give all you can’? Have you reason to believe that 500 of these are to be found among 50,000 Methodists? And yet nothing can be more plain than that all who observe the first rules without the third will be twofold more the children of hell than ever they were before.”
Wesley’s own commitment to giving was consistent throughout his life. As a student at Oxford, he lived on 28 pounds a year. As his earnings increased to 30 and eventually to 120 pounds annually, he continued to live on the same 28 pounds. He told people that if at his death he had more than 10 pounds in his possession, they could call him a robber.
Wesley’s rules regarding wealth
Wesley wrote in 1786 in “Thoughts upon Methodism”:
“… the Methodists in every place grow diligent and frugal; consequently they increase in goods. Hence, they proportionately increase in pride, in anger, in the desire of the flesh, the desire of the eyes, and the pride of life. So, although the form of religion remains, the spirit is swiftly vanishing away.
“… What way, then, (I ask again) can we take, that our money may not sink us to the nethermost hell? There is one way, and there is no other under heaven. If those who ‘gain all they can,’ and ‘save all they can,’ will likewise ‘give all they can;’ then, the more they gain, the more they will grow in grace, and the more treasure they will lay up in heaven.”
Wesley’s sermon “The Use of Money” is a helpful starting point. The rules outlined are integral to his theological, ethical and missional agenda. …’
Source:
https://www.resourceumc.org/en/content/john-wesley-on-giving
Looks like all the Founders of Protestanism themselves knew of this coming danger of “Prosperity Gospel” and “Prophesied” regarding its Practice against so many Bible Verses especially “New Testament Bible Verses”.
Please notice that John Wesley is calling such Christians without the “Charity Doctrine” of “Giving” with the harsh phrase of “twice the children of Hell” which is beyond the danger I usually point which is a loss of Reward or Gradation in His Kingdom, to quote from the above in his own words:
“… But, how many have you found that observe the third rule, ‘GIVE ALL YOU CAN’? … And yet nothing can be more plain than that all who observe the first rules without the third will be TWOFOLD MORE THE CHILDREN OF HELL than ever they were before.” …” – Blessed John Wesley
Is Blessed John Wesley’s Prophecy here true? Which Protestant dares to call him a false prophet if they disagree with his Prophecy here?
Please notice that in the Protestant Circle, he renown for living this Charity Doctrine that he Preached. Hence perhaps that’s why God Chose him to “Prophesy” or “Warn” the “Elect” of the danger of not observing this Doctrine.
Please notice also that Blessed John Wesley is certainly saved even if he Preached this hard and thus we can preach likewise and be Saved too.
Peace to you
Peace to you
God is not looking for Prayer Warriors of Words but in Almsgiving with Fasting and Prayer Mystery
Did you know? Martin Luther agonised the Protestants lack of Giving in Almsgiving likewise:
“… Under the papacy it snowed alms, foundations, legacies. Under the Evangel, on the contrary, no one will give a farthing. …” – Blessed Martin Luther, the First Champion of the Protestant Faith
Bible Verses (in full in image too, please read the Word of God carefully as it is Written because it doesn’t work if done otherwise):
“… 3‘Why have we fasted,’ they say, ‘and You have not seen? Why have we afflicted our souls, and You take no notice?’ … 5Is it a fast that I have chosen,
A day for a man to afflict his soul?
Is it to bow down his head like a bulrush,
And to spread out sackcloth and ashes?
Would you call this a fast,
And an acceptable day to the Lord?
6“Is this not THE FAST THAT I HAVE CHOSEN:
To loose the bonds of wickedness,
To undo the [c]heavy burdens,
To let the oppressed go free,
And that you break every yoke?
7IS IT NOT TO SHARE YOUR BREAD WITH THE HUNGRY, and that YOU BRING TO YOUR HOUSE THE POOR WHO ARE [D]CAST OUT; When YOU SEE THE NAKED, THAT YOU COVER HIM,
And not hide yourself from your own flesh?
8Then your light shall break forth like the morning,
Your healing shall spring forth speedily,
And your righteousness shall go before you;
The glory of the Lord shall be your rear guard.
9THEN YOU SHALL CALL, and THE LORD WILL ANSWER; You shall cry, and He will say, ‘Here I am.’ …” (Isaiah 58:3, 5 – 9, NKJV)
Please notice these Biblical facts from above:
1) Fasting only works when it’s done with Almsgiving
Almsgiving part focus: “… 6“Is this not THE FAST THAT I HAVE CHOSEN: … 7IS IT NOT TO SHARE YOUR BREAD WITH THE HUNGRY, and that YOU BRING TO YOUR HOUSE THE POOR WHO ARE [D]CAST OUT; When YOU SEE THE NAKED, THAT YOU COVER HIM, …”
2) God Promises Healings to us if we do Almsgiving
Healing Focus Part: “… 7IS IT NOT TO SHARE YOUR BREAD WITH THE HUNGRY, and that YOU BRING TO YOUR HOUSE THE POOR WHO ARE [D]CAST OUT; When YOU SEE THE NAKED, THAT YOU COVER HIM, … 8Then your light shall break forth like the morning, YOUR HEALING SHALL SPRING FORTH SPEEDILY, …”
3) Prayer only Works or God only Listens to our Prayers Attentively if we do Almsgiving
Prayer with Almsgiving Focus Promise part: “… 6“Is this not THE FAST THAT I HAVE CHOSEN: … 7IS IT NOT TO SHARE YOUR BREAD WITH THE HUNGRY, and that YOU BRING TO YOUR HOUSE THE POOR WHO ARE [D]CAST OUT; When YOU SEE THE NAKED, THAT YOU COVER HIM, … 9THEN YOU SHALL CALL, and THE LORD WILL ANSWER; You shall cry, and He will say, ‘Here I am.’ …” .
Martin Luther’s fuller quote:
‘… The quote is said to come from Johannes Janssen’s History of the German People From the Close of the Middle Ages Volume 15. On page 465, Janssen states:
“… This decrease of benevolence to the poor and of contributions in general to all good objects, and the increase of an insatiable greed of gain were matters of standing complaint among the Protestants. Nobody spoke more strongly and more frequently on the subject than Luther. ‘Under the papacy’ he said, ‘it snowed alms, foundations, legacies. Under the Evangel, on the contrary, no one will give a farthing.’ …” – Blessed Martin Luther, the First Champion of the Protestant Faith
Janssen says the quote comes from “Collected works xliii, 164.”This would be the forty-third volume of the Erlangen edition of Luther’s Works, which contains his exposition of the Sermon on the Mount. …’
Source:
https://beggarsallreformation.blogspot.com/2010/02/luther-under-evangel-no-one-will-give.html?m=0
Peace to you
Mysterious Hope on Judgment Day for Some? A look at Zephaniah, Book of 1Enoch and the Shepherd of Hermas
Three Categories of Men possibility – the Righteous (Christians), Sinners and the Ungodly (Wicked).
“… 18Now “If the RIGHTEOUS one is scarcely saved, Where will the UNGODLY and the SINNER appear?” …” (1 Peter 4:18)
There is a school of thought in Christianity where the sinners may be saved after Judgment but the wicked (Ungodly) stay in Hell Forever if the origin word Olam (Hebrew) or Aion (Koine Greek) means eternal instead of age-during (of which meaning God Alone Decides). These sinners may be the ones Saved after the last penny Judgment Sentences (e.g. Matthew 5:22 – 26) on Judgment Day.
These Bible Verses below is a Famous Example of where God Pours out “All His Fierce Wrath” which in the end produces some/all of the recipients to be “converted” to Him echoing such a Possible Hope because He Only Pours All His Wrath as Described below on Judgment Day:
“… 8“Therefore wait for Me,” says the Lord,
“Until the day I rise up [d]for plunder;
My determination is to GATHER THE NATIONS
To My assembly of kingdoms,
To pour on them My indignation,
ALL MY FIERCE ANGER;
All the earth shall be devoured
With the fire of My jealousy.
9“For then I WILL RESTORE TO THE PEOPLES a PURE [E]LANGUAGE,
That THEY ALL MAY CALL ON THE NAME of the LORD, To SERVE HIM WITH ONE ACCORD. …” (Zephaniah 3:8 – 9, NKJV)
Comment: Please take note that the Bible’s Zephaniah 3:8 – 10’s “Judgment Day” Salvation for some or all is clear in Verses above. Also, even if God Saves one soul on Judgment Day as per Zephaniah 3:8 – 10 points, it is possible then that He Can Save others even after the Lake of Fire Judgment. The Mysterious Book of 1Enoch may point to such a hope on Judgment Day for some as well, to quote:
“… 1 And in those days a change shall take place for the holy and elect, And the light of days shall abide upon them, And glory and honour shall turn to the holy, 2 ON THE DAY OF AFFLICTION on which evil shall have been treasured up against the sinners.And the righteous shall be victorious in the name of the Lord of Spirits: And HE WILL CAUSE THE OTHERS TO WITNESS (this) THAT THEY MAY REPENT And FORGO THE WORKS OF THEIR HANDS. 3 They shall have NO HONOUR through the name of the Lord of Spirits, YET THROUGH HIS NAME SHALL THEY BE SAVED [Joel 2:32, Romans 10:13, Matthew 12:21], And THE LORD OF SPIRITS WILL HAVE COMPASSION ON THEM, For His compassion is great. 4 And He is righteous also in His judgement, And in the presence of His glory unrighteousness also shall not maintain itself: At HIS JUDGEMENT THE UNREPENTANT SHALL PERISH before Him. 5 And FROM HENCEFORTH I will have NO MERCY on them, saith the Lord of Spirits. …” (Book of Enoch, Chapter 50)
Translation Source:
http://wesley.nnu.edu/index.php?id=2126
Please notice Carefully that this “Salvation with no honour” (hence not a Christian Salvation but possibly unbelievers or fallen Christians) happening on the “Day of Affliction” (Judgment Day) as mentioned in Quote above may refer to the “Saved by fire” case (1 Corinthians 3:13 – 15) after they have “their part” in the Lake of Fire first (Revelation 20:11 – 15).
Here is a set of First Christianity Quotes (by someone with no writing or Prayer to Mary/Saints/Angels either and so Protestants my consider it) quoting such a possible belief based on this 3 categories of men echoing salvation for the “Sinners” category who are saved post-afterlife Judgments first, to quote:
“… The Psalmist represents here THREE KINDS OF MEN, the UNGODLY, the SINNERS, and the JUST, in the order followed by the error. …” – Blessed Ambrosiaster (literally in Latin: “would-be Ambrose”), Roman Clergy active at Rome during the reign of Pope Damasus (c.366 AD – c. 384 AD)
Source (QUESTION 110. ON THE FIRST PSALM.”):
https://sites.google.com/site/aquinasstudybible/home/ambrosiaster-questions-on-the-old-and-new-testaments/scriptural-order-old-testament
“… QUESTION 126. FROM THE ONE WHO RECEIVED THE FAITH OF JESUS CHRIST. … In fact, the knowledge of God must inspire the fear of the just judge, in whose court he teaches us that the faithful will receive the reward of their righteousness, and the ungodly, that is to say the unbelievers, the just punishment of their infidelity. It is of all justice, indeed, that the good ones be filled with joy in the future life in which Jesus Christ must reign with his chosen ones. They have been exposed to scorn, outrages in this world where the devil reigns, they will appear surrounded by glory in the kingdom of Jesus Christ for which they have borne the contempt of the worldly. SINNERS, on the contrary, who seemed to shine here below a false brilliance, opposing falsehood to truth, have to wait for tribulation and an imaginary glory to succeed for them a contempt, a humiliation too real. The righteous will rejoice in having believed, when they witness the chastisements of the unbelieving, and THE UNFAITHFUL WILL REPENT of THEIR UNBELIEF ONLY when THEY SEE BOTH THEIR OWN CHASTISEMENT and the glory of those WHOSE FAITH THEY HAD REGARDED as an ACT of MADNESS, which was only worthy of their contempt. …” – Blessed Ambrosiaster (literally in Latin: “would-be Ambrose”), Roman Clergy active at Rome during the reign of Pope Damasus (c.366 AD – c. 384 AD)
Source:
https://sites.google.com/site/aquinasstudybible/home/ambrosiaster-questions-on-the-old-and-new-testaments/polemic
Here is a Possible “Scripture” Level Writing in “First Christianity” Testifying to such a Possible Hope, to quote from the Shepherd of Hermas Scripture:
“… Do you wish to know who are the others which fell near the waters, but could not be rolled into them? These are they who have heard the word, and wish to be baptized in the name of the Lord; but when the chastity demanded by the truth comes into their recollection, they draw back, and again walk after their own wicked desires.” She finished her exposition of the tower. …” – Shepherd of Hermas (Chapter VII, Third Vision, Translated by another Well Known Scholar Mr. Roberts-Donaldson)
Source:
http://www.earlychristianwritings.com/text/shepherd.html
So,
“…These are they who have heard the word, and wish to be baptized in the name of the Lord …” = Non-Christians who Heard the Gospel but never got Baptized though they may have wished to because,
“…but when the chastity demanded by the truth comes into their recollection, they draw back, and again walk after their own wicked desires. …” = They did not want to Believe and Practice Christianity because the Demands of Its Purity is too High and that they don’t want to abandon their past ways, i.e. they died unrepentant on earth. Can you see that the Hope of the Spirit World Salvation also includes them as part of “all these rejected stones”?
The Hope Part:
“… She finished her exposition of the tower. But I, shameless as I yet was, asked her, “Is repentance possible for all those stones which have been cast away and did not fit into the building of the tower, and will they yet have a place in this tower?” “Repentance,” said she, “is yet possible, but in this tower they cannot find a suitable place. But in another and much inferior place they will be laid, and that, too, only when they have been tortured and completed the days of their sins. And on this account will they be transferred, because they have partaken of the righteous Word. And then only will they be removed from their punishments when the thought of repenting of the evil deeds which they have done has come into their hearts. But if it does not come into their hearts, they will not be saved, on account of the hardness of their heart.” …” – Shepherd of Hermas (Chapter VII, Third Vision, Translated by another Well Known Scholar Mr. Roberts-Donaldson)
Source:
http://www.earlychristianwritings.com/text/shepherd.html
This Shepherd of Hermas Scripture regarding some non-Christians (the unbaptized & those who heard the Gospel on earth but did not believe in it) can be Saved in the Spirit World if God Wills as Described above.
I think it means as follows:
The Phrase: “… “Repentance,” said she, “is yet possible, but in this tower they cannot find a suitable place. But in another and much inferior place they will be laid, and that, too, only when they have been tortured and completed the days of their sins. And on this account will they be transferred, because they have partaken of the righteous Word. And then only will they be removed from their punishments …” (Shepherd of Hermas above) = They cannot be part of the ‘Tower of Repentance’ = First Resurrection Participation (Revelation 20:4 – 6, Elect Salvation to inherit the Kingdom) but may be Saved on the Final New earth to visit at most the New Jerusalem at that time after the Second Resurrection (Revelation 21:24):
“… 24And the nations [n]of those who are saved shall walk in its light, and the kings of the earth bring their glory and honor [o]into it. 25Its gates shall not be shut at all by day (there shall be no night there). 26And they shall bring the glory and the honor of the nations into [p]it. 27But there shall by no means enter it anything [q]that defiles, or causes an abomination or a lie, but only those who are written in the Lamb’s Book of Life. …” (Revelation 21:24 – 27, NKJV)
Please notice the Christians are the Bride of Christ and are Inside the New Jerusalem while these ‘saved ones’ from the ‘Second Resurrection’ may be the ones who did the “Charity Doctrine” toward the “least of My Brethren” (or Christians or Millennial Reign mortal Jews) as Matthew 25:31 – 46 may point to such a possibility as discussed in an earlier post in link below:
https://www.facebook.com/jonathan.ramachandran/posts/10160629881647784
Luke 12:46 – 48’s Wicked Servant (Matthew 18:32 calls such a ‘fallen Christian’ as a ‘Wicked Servant’) who is “beaten with many stripes” for ‘not doing God’s Will Despite knowing it’ who may be Saved after the last penny (Matthew 5:26, Luke 12:57 – 59, Matthew 18:22 – 35).
How does this relate to a non-believer’s Salvation Hope likewise? The Shepherd of Hermas quote above has the phrase “… participated in the Righteous Word …” toward that wicked one who gets such a hope. So an unbeliever who does the “Charity Doctrine” or kept himself holy in some aspects likewise may be counted as ‘Participated in the Righteous Word too’, right? Because Luke 12:46 – 48 also describes the punishment to one who doesn’t know as ‘fewer stripes’ and Luke 12:46 specifically states that such fallen Christians are treated equally as a portion with “unbelievers”. So “unbelievers” might find a similar hope. Within the Shepherd of Hermas quote, the earlier quotes (consecutive to this, hence same context) Speak of ‘this Hope for all these rejected stones’ to include even the ‘unbaptized’ even pointing to it to refer to unbelievers as well. The Participation of the Word is highlighted to show these are “sinners” who also did some right things in life according to Bible Verses and so a hope may be possible according to these writings.
How Reliable is the Shepherd of Hermas Writing and why is it not in the Bible then?
Shepherd of Hermas – For All the Elect
“… and asked me, if I had yet given the book to the presbyters. And I said that I had not. And then she said, “You have done well for I have some words to add. But when I finish all the words, ALL the ELECT will then become acquainted with them through you. You will write therefore two books, and you will send the one to Clemens and the other to Grapte. And Clemens will send his to foreign countries, for permission has been granted to him to do so. And Grapte will admonish the widows and the orphans. But you will read the words in this city, along with the presbyters who preside over the Church. …” – Shepherd of Hermas (Vision 2, Chapter IV)
Source:
http://www.earlychristianwritings.com/text/shepherd.html
Please note the phrase “ALL the ELECT” carefully in the quote above across two translations. Hence I implore thee: please don’t take this “Shepherd of Hermas Scripture” in First Christianity lightly and please read it in links above.
How reliable is Shepherd of Hermas in First Christianity till today?
To quote (briefly):
Regarding the Shepherd of Hermas, it is considered Scripture-Level in First Christianity by even St. Irenaeous of Lyons (hearer of St. Polycarp the disciple of St. John who wrote the Book of Revelation), Tertullian (father of Latin/Western Christianity), Pope Callixtus I (leader of the Entire Roman Catholic Church in his time), St. Clement of Alexandria (Head of the Oldest Bible School in Christianity, the Alexandrian School) and even the First Bibles of Christianity (the Muratorian or Roman Canon in the West & the Codex Claromontanus Canon in the East) while Eusebius (father of Church History) and St. Athanasius the Great (father of orthodoxy & Champion of Trinity) approved of its use for catechumens .
If all these “Elect Saints of God” believed in the Shepherd of Hermas as Scripture, we ought to as well.
The Various Approval of the Shepherd of Hermas is discussed in detail at the end of the write up in link below:
https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=10159121203392784&id=65179278
As I said, I point this out as a “Possibility” and not Doctrine because I am not sure either way as Holy Scripture seems to point either way. Perhaps God doesn’t want us to find out as the Bible Verses below itself points out that “God’s Judgment are past finding out” meaning it cannot be determined by us 100% for all cases here itself on earth:
“… Oh, the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! How UNSEARCHABLE ARE HIS JUDGMENTS and His ways PAST FINDING OUT! …” (Romans 11:33, NKJV)
Source (Original Post):
https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=10160676321817784&id=651792783
Peace to you
Race of Faith Mystery – Is it inclusive of the Charity Doctrine?
1) In Philippians 2, Blessed Apostle St. Paul writes clearly about two things only which are needed to run the “Race of Faith” in order to “Work out one’s Salvation” with “fear & trembling” where this Work of Salvation is not our will but is Done as “God Who Wills to do it for His Good Pleasure” as it’s Beautifully described in Verses below to understand “Faith & Works” accurately:
“… 12Therefore, my beloved, as you have ALWAYS OBEYED, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, WORK OUT YOUR OWN SALVATION with fear and trembling; 13for it is GOD WHO WORKS IN YOU both TO WILL AND TO DO for His good pleasure.14Do all things without [d]complaining and disputing,[e] 15that you may become blameless and [f]harmless, children of God without fault in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world, 16holding fast the word of life, so that I may rejoice in the DAY OF CHRIST that I have NOT RUN IN VAIN OR LABORED IN VAIN. 17Yes, and if I am being poured out as a drink offering on the SACRIFICE AND SERVICE OF YOUR FAITH, I am glad and rejoice with you all. 18For the same reason you also be glad and rejoice with me. …” (Philippians 2:12 – 18, NKJV)
These set of Verses are often used to refer to ‘Ministry or Gospel Work’ directly but Apostle St. Paul’s words of “service and sacrifice” indicates also the “Charity Doctrine acts” toward believers in supplying their “physical needs” (e.g. food, water etc.) as part of the act of “Work out your Salvation” acts required to do “God’s Will” without which just conversions with “casting out demons, prophesying and miracles” with “Lawlessness” are “Denied” (according to Matthew 7:18 – 23) including due to not fulfilling the “Law of Christ” (hence Lawlessness) to “bear one another’s burdens” (Galatians 6:2) is possible, these Verses:
“… 13“Enter by the narrow gate; for wide is the gate and broad is the way that leads to destruction, and there are many who go in by it. 14[c]Because narrow is the gate and [d]DIFFICULT is the way which LEADS TO LIFE, and there are FEW WHO FIND IT. … 21“Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father in heaven. 22MANY will say to Me in that day, ‘Lord, Lord, have we NOT PROPHESIED in Your name, CAST OUT DEMONS in Your name, and DONE MANY WONDERS in Your name?’ 23And then I will declare to them, ‘I NEVER KNEW YOU; depart from Me, you who practice LAWLESSNESS!’ …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 7:13 – 14, 21 – 23, NKJV)
“… Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ. …” (Galatians 6:2, NKJV)
I am not Saying it is but it’s possible and so better to obey these Verses to be Safe.
2) Context for the Race of Faith’s Works in Philippians 2:12 – 18.
Are we stretching the context of Philippians 2:12 – 18 above to be out of context regarding “which works of Salvation” for “not laboring in vain” Apostle St. Paul is referring to by including the “Charity Doctrine Acts”?
Just after writing the above and praising his faithful son in the faith (Blessed St. Timothy), Apostle St. Paul himself describes how important the “Charity Doctrine Works” are in regards to “Works of Salvation/Running the Race of Faith” in Verses below from this same letter, same chapter, same author and same Topic, hence “same Context”, to quote:
“… 25Yet I considered it necessary to send to you EPAPHRODITUS, MY BROTHER, FELLOW WORKER, and FELLOW SOLDIER, but your messenger and THE ONE WHO MINISTERED TO MY NEED; 26since he was longing for you all, and was distressed because you had heard that he was sick. 27For INDEED HE WAS SICK ALMOST UNTO DEATH; but God had mercy on him, and not only on him but on me also, lest I should have sorrow upon sorrow. 28Therefore I sent him the more eagerly, that when you see him again you may rejoice, and I may be less sorrowful. 29Receive him therefore in the Lord with all gladness, and HOLD SUCH MEN IN ESTEEM; 30because FOR THE WORK OF CHRIST HE CAME CLOSE TO DEATH, [h]not regarding his life, to SUPPLY WHAT WAS LACKING IN YOUR SERVICE TOWARD ME. …” (Philippians 2:25 – 30, NKJV)
Please read ‘carefully’ and note these Beautiful Biblical Truths from Verses above:
1. Blessed EPAPHRODITUS is explicitly mentioned in Holy Scripture as someone who practiced the Charity Doctrine and supplied the needs of Apostle St. Paul himself
Phrase: “… EPAPHRODITUS, … and THE ONE WHO MINISTERED TO MY NEED …”
2. Blessed EPAPHRODITUS is not doing a sidelined ministry by his Charity Doctrine lifestyle but is called almost equal with Apostle St. Paul himself for his Charity Work toward St. Paul to supply his needs
Phrase: “… EPAPHRODITUS, MY BROTHER, FELLOW WORKER, and FELLOW SOLDIER, …”
3. To live the Charity Doctrine lifestyle to provide for Apostle St. Paul, he even probably almost died as his health deteriorated for doing so much work to supply Apostle St. Paul’s needs
Phrase: “… 27For INDEED HE WAS SICK ALMOST UNTO DEATH …”
4. Such Charity Workers who supply the needs of other Christians (e.g. toward Apostle St. Paul’s needs in this case or equivalently others too e.g. giving food to Christian orphanages or the poor etc.) are to be held in “High Esteem” as Scripture Says and not as ‘sidelined ministries’ as sometimes Charities are seen
Phrase: “… 29Receive him therefore in the Lord with all gladness, and HOLD SUCH MEN IN ESTEEM; …”
5. Charity Doctrine Work of Supplying the physical Earthly “needs” is the only explicit work mentioned of this person whom Holy Scripture highly praises and mentions below as a “Work of Christ”. So the “Charity Doctrine” is a “Work of Christ” and is not inferior in any way toward the ‘other ministry work in Christ too’ according to these Bible Verses literally. Can you see it “as it is Written”?
Phrase: “… 30because FOR THE WORK OF CHRIST HE CAME CLOSE TO DEATH, [h]not regarding his life, to SUPPLY WHAT WAS LACKING IN YOUR SERVICE TOWARD ME. …”
Please note that no other work of Christ is mentioned to be done by Blessed EPAPHRODITUS in his life apart from this Charity Doctrine lifestyle. If there was other work he did, Apostle St. Paul would have clearly pointed that out too. Please also notice that his “supplying of Apostle St. Paul’s needs” was even covering what the Church couldn’t give to Apostle St. Paul & “lacked” in their giving. Similarly, for example Christian orphanages or the poor may be lacking in their needs being supplied and thus richer Christians or churches must thus look beyond race/denominations etc. and help them. Not only them but also toward non-Christians this ‘Charity Doctrine’ needs to be done by Christians according to Verses below too:
“… But do not forget to do good and to share, for with such sacrifices God is well pleased. …” (Hebrews 13:16, NKJV)
“… Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all, especially to those who are of the household of faith. …” (Galatians 6:19, NKJV)
“… And if you do good to those who do good to you, what credit is that to you? For even sinners do the same. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 6:33, NKJV)
This is the “Will of God” which all who are “Predestined” to be “Saved by Faith” will do such “Good Works” in their lives accordingly fulfilling their “Purpose” of being “Created by God”, Verses:
“… 8For by GRACE you have been SAVED THROUGH FAITH, and that NOT OF YOURSELVES; it is the GIFT OF GOD, 9NOT OF WORKS, lest anyone should boast. 10For we are His workmanship, CREATED IN CHRIST JESUS for GOOD WORKS, which GOD PREPARED BEFOREHAND that WE SHOULD WALK IN THEM. …” (Ephesians 2:8 – 10, NKJV)
In Verses below we find that not all convert the Christians but are instrumental in “watering them” for growth be it in Doctrine (e.g. the “Charity Doctrine” in words) and also by the “Charity Doctrine Acts” through which their “needs” are met where God Will Reward both, Verses:
“… 5Who then is Paul, and who is Apollos, but ministers through whom you believed, as the Lord gave to each one? 6I PLANTED, APOLLOS WATERED, but GOD GAVE THE INCREASE. 7So then NEITHER HE WHO PLANTS IS ANYTHING, NOR HE WHO WATERS, BUT GOD WHO GIVES THE INCREASE. 8Now HE WHO PLANTS AND HE WHO WATERS ARE ONE, and EACH ONE WILL RECEIVE HIS OWN REWARD ACCORDING TO HIS OWN LABOR. 9For we are God’s fellow workers; you are God’s field, you are God’s building. …” (1 Corinthians 3:5 – 9, NKJV)
The phrases “… HE WHO PLANTS AND HE WHO WATERS ARE ONE …” Indicates that the one whom God Uses to do the conversion or the Charity Doctrine of watering with Doctrine or physical needs of such Christians are “one” meaning that one ministry is not more special than the other where the “Heavenly Reward” is by “relative measure” as the phrase “… and EACH ONE WILL RECEIVE HIS OWN REWARD ACCORDING TO HIS OWN LABOR. …” means. So, God is Perfectly Fair to all Christians as His Ministry cannot be coveted nor politicised, racially twisted, financially biased or manipulated by anyone in any way.
Each can do their part and get equal rewards even as other Verses have Testified (e.g. Luke 21:1 – 4) or Verses below too where He Will Straighten out any unfairness and manipulations giving only “what is right to each one’s labor/effort alone is enough”:
“… 7They said to him, ‘Because NO ONE HIRED US.’ He said to them, ‘You also go into the vineyard, [b]and WHATEVER IS RIGHT YOU WILL RECEIVE.’ 8“So when evening had come, the owner of the vineyard said to his steward, ‘Call the laborers and give them their wages, BEGINNING WITH THE LAST TO THE FIRST.’ 9And when those came who were hired about the eleventh hour, they each received a denarius. 10But when the first came, they supposed that they would receive more; and they likewise received each a denarius. 11And when they had received it, they [c]complained against the landowner, 12saying, ‘THESE LAST MEN HAVE WORKED ONLY ONE HOUR, and you made them EQUAL TO US who have borne the burden and the heat of the day.’ 13But he answered one of them and said, ‘Friend, I am doing you no wrong. Did you not agree with me for a denarius? 14Take what is yours and go your way. I WISH TO GIVE TO THIS LAST MAN THE SAME AS TO YOU. 15Is it not lawful for me to do what I wish with my own things? Or is your eye evil because I am good?’ 16So the LAST WILL BE FIRST, AND THE FIRST LAST. For[d] many are called, but FEW CHOSEN.” …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 20:7 – 16, NKJV)
If anyone doesn’t want to adhere to these New Testament Verses of lifestyle in the Charity Doctrine, please don’t force them or trouble yourself if they’re not interested in such holy living and pearls of Holy Scripture lest they harm you instead (as the unselfish part of sharing with them such Biblical knowledge for them to attain to such Heavenly Rewards is already done which puts you free from any guilt for fulfilling your responsibility in Christ to Preach thus), Verses:
“… Do not give what is holy to the dogs; nor cast your pearls before swine, lest they trample them under their feet, and turn and tear you in pieces. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 7:6, NKJV)
Peace to you
Faith Alone?
i) Justification of Salvation by Faith Alone
“… Therefore we conclude that a man is justified by faith apart from the deeds of the law. …” (Romans 3:28, NKJV)
Saved by “Christ’s Faith = Faith of Jesus Christ (Romans 3:22, KJV) = Faith of God (Romans 3:3, KJV)”:
“… 3For what if SOME DID NOT BELIEVE? shall their UNBELIEF make the FAITH OF GOD without effect? 4God forbid: yea, let GOD BE TRUE, but EVERY MAN A LIAR; as it is written, That thou mightest be justified in thy sayings, and mightest overcome when thou art judged. … 22Even the righteousness of God which is by FAITH OF JESUS CHRIST UNTO ALL and upon all them that believe: for there is no difference: 23For ALL HAVE SINNED, and come short of the glory of God; 24Being JUSTIFIED FREELY by HIS GRACE through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus: …” (Romans 3:3 – 4, 22 – 23, KJV)
ii) Justification for Rewards and escape of Judgment by Works
“… You see then that a man is justified by works, and not by faith only. …” (James 2:24, NKJV)
We need to keep the “Royal Law” of “Scripture” which is to “love one’s neighbor as oneself” (i.e. the “Charity Doctrine”) and ‘not all the Torah/Law’ where the Warning is if we try that we will be judged even for missing one of it as equivalent to missing all of it according to Verses below:
“… 8If you really FULFILL THE ROYAL LAW according to the SCRIPTURE, “You shall LOVE YOUR NEIGHBOR AS YOURSELF,” YOU DO WELL; 9but if you [e]show partiality, you commit sin, and are convicted by the law as transgressors. 10For whoever shall KEEP THE WHOLE LAW, and yet STUMBLE IN ONE POINT, HE IS GUILTY OF ALL. 11For He who said, “Do not commit adultery,” also said, “Do not murder.” Now if you do not commit adultery, but you do murder, you have become a transgressor of the law. 12So speak and so do as those who will be judged by the law of liberty. 13For JUDGMENT IS WITHOUT MERCY to the one who has SHOWN NO MERCY. MERCY TRIUMPHS OVER JUDGMENT. 14What does it profit, my brethren, if someone says he HAS FAITH BUT DOES NOT HAVE WORKS? CAN FAITH SAVE HIM? 15If a brother or sister is naked and destitute of daily food, 16and 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? 17Thus also FAITH BY ITSELF, IF IT DOES NOT HAVE WORKS, IS DEAD. …” (James 2:8 – 17, NKJV)
Note: The only thing that can Triumph or over Judgment is “Mercy” and it refers to the “Mercy” that person has shown to others first in their lives prior which is nothing else than the “Charity Doctrine” and forgiving easily those who have wronged us.
Please also notice that the “Work of Saving Faith” is “Love in Action” according to James’ Context in Verses above where Holy Scripture only Speaks of the “Charity Doctrine” Works of “sharing food etc.” and condemns the “Prayer in Words only type of faith” (the phrase: ‘… Depart in peace, be warmed and filled …’) and points that the Saving Faith has ‘Almsgiving as Prayer in Action’ in the phrase ‘… give them the things which are needed for the body …’. This is the “Charity Doctrine” which is the Fruit of “Saving Faith” and is the “Faith with Love in Action” which the Ultimate Goal of True Faith according to Verse below too:
“… For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision nor uncircumcision avails anything, but FAITH WORKING THROUGH LOVE. … For ALL THE LAW IS FULFILLED in one word, even in this: “YOU SHALL LOVE YOUR NEIGHBOR AS YOURSELF.” …” (Galatians 5:6, 14, NKJV)
The phrase “… FAITH WORKING THROUGH LOVE …” = ‘Faith with Charity Doctrine’ because ‘Charity Doctrine is Love in Action’.
Also, the Royal Law of Scripture to “Love your neighbor as yourself” as James 2:8 points out is also mentioned by Apostle St. Paul in context of discussing which “faith working through love” (he means in Galatians 5:6) as few Verses later is the same faith which has the “Charity Doctrine” that is the “Love your neighbor as yourself” which he Says “fulfills all Law” (in Galatians 5:14). If “all Law/Torah” is fulfilled by this, nothing is left to fulfill or needed toward a a true faith (which includes the Definition of Holiness). Best is Christ Himself Defined the how to “Love your neighbor as yourself” as the “Charity Doctrine only” in His “Parable of the Good Samaritan” making this Context as irrefutable in Luke 10:25 – 37.
Yes the “Charity Doctrine” Definition by “Christ Himself” for fulfilling the “Love your neighbor as yourself” for “Eternal Life’s Works” which fulfills all Law as the Royal Law of Scripture is this:
“… 25And behold, a certain lawyer stood up and tested Him, saying, “Teacher, what shall I DO TO INHERIT ETERNAL LIFE?” 26He said to him, “What is WRITTEN IN THE LAW? What is YOUR READING OF IT?” 27So he answered and said, “ ‘You shall LOVE THE LORD YOUR GOD with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your strength, and with all your mind,’ and ‘YOUR NEIGHBOR AS YOURSELF.’ ” 28And He said to him, “You have answered rightly; DO THIS AND YOU WILL LIVE.” 29But he, wanting to justify himself, said to Jesus, “And WHO IS MY NEIGHBOR?” 30Then JESUS ANSWERED and said: “A certain man went down from Jerusalem to Jericho, and fell among thieves, who stripped him of his clothing, wounded him, and departed, leaving him half dead. 31Now by chance a certain priest came down that road. And when he saw him, he passed by on the other side. 32Likewise a Levite, when he arrived at the place, came and looked, and passed by on the other side. 33But a certain Samaritan, as he journeyed, came where he was. And when he saw him, he had COMPASSION. 34So he went to him and BANDAGED HIS WOUNDS, pouring on oil and wine; and he set him on his own animal, brought him to an inn, and TOOK CARE OF HIM. 35On the next day, when he departed, he took out two denarii, gave them to the innkeeper, and said to him, ‘TAKE CARE OF HIM; and WHATEVER MORE YOU SPEND, when I come again, I WILL REPAY YOU.’ 36So which of these three do you think was NEIGHBOR to him who fell among the thieves? 37And he said, “He who SHOWED MERCY on him.” Then JESUS SAID to him, “GO AND DO LIKEWISE.”…” (Luke 10:25 – 37, NKJV)
Simple Biblical Truth in Quote in image. So many Verses. Even Blessed Martin Luther knew and Preached it. Not Preaching it is a loss of Theological Accuracy and is Dangerous.
Example Post regarding what Blessed Martin Luther himself preached regarding it ties up to the Context of the Parable of “Wise and Foolish Virgins” too as it’s detailed out in post below:
https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=10160601512652784&id=651792783
P/S: Dangers of being a “Prosperity Sheep”.
Being a “Fat Sheep” = “Prosperity Sheep” which is still a Sheep doesn’t necessarily save anyone according to Verses below as these are judged based on the “Charity Doctrine”, Verses:
“Judgment of Sheep and Sheep based on the “Charity Doctrine”
Bible Verses:
“… 15I will feed My flock, and I will make them lie down,” says the Lord God. 16“I will seek what was lost and bring back what was driven away, bind up the broken and strengthen what was sick; but I WILL DESTROY THE FAT AND THE STRONG, and FEED THEM IN JUDGMENT.” 17‘And as for you, O My flock, thus says the Lord God: “Behold, I SHALL JUDGE BETWEEN SHEEP AND SHEEP, between rams and goats. … 20‘Therefore thus says the Lord God to them: “Behold, I MYSELF WILL JUDGE BETWEEN THE FAT and THE LEAN SHEEP. 21Because you have pushed with side and shoulder, butted all the weak ones with your horns, and scattered them abroad, 22therefore I will save My flock, and they shall no longer be a prey; and I WILL JUDGE BETWEEN SHEEP AND SHEEP. …” (Ezekiel 34:15 – 17, 20 – 22, NKJV)
This is what God Promises for the “Fat Sheep” = “Prosperity Sheep” even if they’re sheep in Verses above: “… I WILL DESTROY THE FAT AND THE STRONG, and FEED THEM IN JUDGMENT.” …” (Ezekiel 34:17). Please take note that this set of Verses and Context is very important because when Christ Quotes His Parables using the “Sheep” definition especially ‘seeking out the Lost Sheep’ (e.g. Luke 15:4) He is Quoting Ezekiel 34:15 – 16 here which defines the ‘lost sheep’ as the ones which were ‘harmed or driven away’ by the ‘Fat/Prosperity Sheep’. Can you see it? Please read the ‘Bible Verses’ Carefully because He Said that Speaking in Parables many won’t understand His Words/Definition (Matthew 13:13) unless they’re unlocked with ‘other Scripture only’.
The Verses above talk about the lost sheep of Israel where the stronger ones among them have “not” done the “Charity Doctrine” toward their weaker ones causing the weaker ones to be “lean” and cast aside while the “fat” ones enjoy “prosperity” as parabolically described in Verses above.
God’s Judgment Principle is the same as He Judges above between “Sheep and Sheep” (Context) from which we can clearly see the danger of the “Prosperity Gospel” because these teach to be like the “fat” sheep which grabs everything just because they are stronger or have advantage in life instead of focusing on the “Charity Doctrine” between them to share with the “poorer” Christian Churches (quoted in principle of “Sheep” judged with how they treat “other Sheep”).
The “Prosperity Sheep” may not gain heaven type of inheritance (as per First Christianity Definitions discussed in posts prior) or may be saved to be least in it or even unsaved which can be the meaning of Christ’s Warning that it’s “hard” for a “rich man” (referring to a rich man who kept all the Torah from his youth, Context: Matthew 19:16 – 20 first) in Verses below (regarding “Perfection” direction of “Following Christ” too):
” … 21Jesus said to him, “IF you want to be PERFECT, go, SELL what YOU HAVE and GIVE to the POOR, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, FOLLOW ME.” 22But when the young man heard that saying, he went away SORROWFUL, for he had GREAT POSSESSIONS.23Then Jesus said to His disciples, “Assuredly, I say to you that it is HARD for a RICH MAN TO ENTER THE KINGDOM OF HEAVEN. 24And AGAIN I say to you, it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God. …” (Matthew 19:21 – 24, NKJV)
This is the only thing God in Flesh Himself has Said as “Hard” and so let’s not take it lightly. There’s a possible interpretation that “Many” denied on that Day when He Returns despite them converting “Many” and “casting out Demons, Prophesying, Doing Miracles”, He Says “… I never knew you…” (in Matthew 7:18 – 23) due to “Lawlessness” to possibly refer or include the Context of “not” fulfilling the “Law of Christ” (as ‘not fulfilling is Lawlessness’) which certainly includes the “Charity Doctrine” as its Primary Definition as the phrase “… bear one another’s burdens …” in Verse below means:
“… Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ. …” (Galatians 6:2, NKJV)
Simple Doctrine Biblically but Sounds Hard? That’s why only a “few” find it or can fulfill it by God’s Grace:
“… 13“Enter by the narrow gate; for wide is the gate and broad is the way that leads to destruction, and there are many who go in by it. 14[c]Because narrow is the gate and [d]DIFFICULT is the way which LEADS TO LIFE, and there are FEW WHO FIND IT. … 21“Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father in heaven. 22MANY will say to Me in that day, ‘Lord, Lord, have we NOT PROPHESIED in Your name, CAST OUT DEMONS in Your name, and DONE MANY WONDERS in Your name?’ 23And then I will declare to them, ‘I NEVER KNEW YOU; depart from Me, you who practice LAWLESSNESS!’ …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 7:13 – 14, 21 – 23, NKJV)
This Warning below which sounds like those who do it are unsaved was Written by Apostle St. James to “rich Christians” as his letters are not written to Unbelievers which agrees to such a possible exegesis:
“… 1Come now, YOU RICH, weep and howl for your miseries that are coming upon you! 2Your riches are corrupted, and your garments are moth-eaten. 3Your GOLD and SILVER are corroded, and their corrosion will be a witness against you and will EAT YOUR FLESH LIKE FIRE. You have HEAPED up TREASURE in the LAST DAYS. … 5You have lived on the earth in PLEASURE and LUXURY; you have fattened your hearts as in a DAY of SLAUGHTER. …”
– Blessed St. James the Just, First Bishop of Jerusalem (James 5:1 – 3, 5, NKJV)
The “Command” by Apostle St. Paul who wrote the “Justification by Faith Doctrine” toward the “rich Christians” to attain to “Eternal Life” includes doing these “works of faith” which is clearly or mainly the “Charity Doctrine” making this Context certainly true Biblically for the New Testament:
“… 17COMMAND THOSE WHO ARE RICH in this present age not to be haughty, nor to trust in uncertain riches but in the living God, who gives us richly all things to enjoy. 18Let THEM DO GOOD, that they be RICH IN GOOD WORKS, READY TO GIVE, WILLING TO SHARE, 19storing up for themselves a good foundation for the time to come, that THEY MAY LAY HOLD ON ETERNAL LIFE. …” (1 Timothy 6:17 – 19, NKJV)
The only Rich Christians who are Saved will demonstrate the “Saving Faith with Charity Doctrine Works” as described in Verses above.
Peace to you
Charity Doctrine Summary in the Bible
1) Judgment of Sheep and Sheep based on the “Charity Doctrine”
Bible Verses:
“… 15I will feed My flock, and I will make them lie down,” says the Lord God. 16“I will seek what was lost and bring back what was driven away, bind up the broken and strengthen what was sick; but I WILL DESTROY THE FAT AND THE STRONG, and FEED THEM IN JUDGMENT.” 17‘And as for you, O My flock, thus says the Lord God: “Behold, I SHALL JUDGE BETWEEN SHEEP AND SHEEP, between rams and goats. … 20‘Therefore thus says the Lord God to them: “Behold, I MYSELF WILL JUDGE BETWEEN THE FAT and THE LEAN SHEEP. 21Because you have pushed with side and shoulder, butted all the weak ones with your horns, and scattered them abroad, 22therefore I will save My flock, and they shall no longer be a prey; and I WILL JUDGE BETWEEN SHEEP AND SHEEP. …” (Ezekiel 34:15 – 17, 20 – 22, NKJV)
The Verses above talk about the lost sheep of Israel where the stronger ones among them have “not” done the “Charity Doctrine” toward their weaker ones causing the weaker ones to be “lean” and cast aside while the “fat” ones enjoy “prosperity” as parabolically described in Verses above.
God’s Judgment Principle is the same as He Judges above between “Sheep and Sheep” (Context) from which we can clearly see the danger of the “Prosperity Gospel” because these teach to be like the “fat” sheep which grabs everything just because they are stronger or have advantage in life instead of focusing on the “Charity Doctrine” between them to share with the “poorer” Christian Churches (quoted in principle of “Sheep” judged with how they treat “other Sheep”).
2) Prosperity Shepherds who feed on the Sheep’s Money without sharing with the poor sheep are Judged
In this Same Chapter, God Warns against “Shepherds” (or pastors too in principle) where they’re busy “feeding themselves” (both spiritually and physically with money gained in the Name of God, for example) instead of using that money/spiritual gifts to “Freely Give” toward the “Poor Sheep” (implied) in Verses below:
“… 7‘Therefore, you shepherds, hear the word of the Lord: 8“As I live,” says the Lord God, “surely because My flock became a prey, and My flock became food for every beast of the field, because there was no shepherd, nor did My shepherds search for My flock, but THE SHEPHERDS FED THEMSELVES and DID NOT FEED MY FLOCK”— 9therefore, O shepherds, hear the word of the Lord! 10Thus says the Lord God: “Behold, I AM AGAINST THE SHEPHERDS, and I will require My flock at their hand; I will cause them to cease feeding the sheep, and the shepherds shall feed themselves no more; for I WILL DELIVER MY FLOCK FROM THEIR MOUTHS, that they may NO LONGER BE FOOD FOR THEM.” …” (Ezekiel 34:7 – 10, NKJV)
It’s clearly described parabolically that God is “not” keen on Shepherds who “feed themselves” even using their “sheep as food”, i.e. in analogy using their church member’s money to attain to “monetary prosperity”. A true Shepherd lives by faith by taking only what he needs from Church Money and giving the rest to ministry and the poor as these New Testament Verses agree likewise:
“… 1The elders who are among you I exhort, I who am a fellow elder and a witness of the sufferings of Christ, and also a partaker of the glory that will be revealed: 2SHEPHERD the flock of God which is among you, serving as overseers, not by compulsion but [a]willingly, NOT FOR DISHONEST GAIN but eagerly; 3nor as being [b]lords over those entrusted to you, but BEING EXAMPLES TO THE FLOCK; 4and when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory that does not fade away. …” (1 Peter 5:2 – 4, NKJV)
It’s clear Written in Verses above that Pastors ought to Shepherd the Flock of God by “Example” meaning if they teach prayer, they must pray plentifully, if they teach Giving, they must give too and so on. Being Examples means they’re not exempt say from the Charity Doctrine and receive only from their flock in which case they may fall into the dangerous category of “Prosperity Pastors or Fat Sheep” which God judges in Verses in Ezekiel earlier and in here it’s written as “dishonest gain”.
3) No Righteous Man in the Bible ever became Rich by collecting money in the Name of God. Only false teachers are Prophesied to be like that.
Yes, “prosperity” with money collected in the name of God is “dishonest gain” as no one (from Abraham to Job) ever became rich via money collected in the name of God but were rich only via secular work of farming etc. which God Blessed them & they shared extravagantly:
Apostle St. Paul “Prophesied” clearly regarding the dangerous Christian pastors to come who will draw disciples to themselves (have many converts because people love money & so look for such prosperity preachers) but will be missing this “example” (which 1 Peter 5:3) mentions too as to not have “dishonest gain” is described in Verses below:
“… 30Also from AMONG YOURSELVES MEN WILL RISE UP, SPEAKING [H]PERVERSE THINGS, to DRAW AWAY THE DISCIPLES AFTER THEMSELVES. 31Therefore watch, and remember that for three years I did not cease to warn everyone night and day with tears. 32“So now, brethren, I commend you to God and to the word of His grace, which is able to build you up and give you AN INHERITANCE AMONG ALL THOSE WHO are SANCTIFIED. 33I have COVETED NO ONE’S SILVER OR GOLD or APPAREL. 34[i]Yes, you yourselves know that THESE HANDS have PROVIDED FOR MY NECESSITIES, and for those who were with me. 35I have SHOWN YOU IN EVERY WAY, by laboring like this, that YOU MUST SUPPORT THE WEAK. And remember the words of the Lord Jesus, that He said, ‘It is MORE BLESSED TO GIVE THAN TO RECEIVE.’ ” …” (Acts 20:25 – 35, NKJV)
It’s very clear in Apostle St. Paul’s last words before his journey toward Martyrdom that he warns of false teachings by pointing out the “correct” way the Gospel Work & Life should be lived which is “not prosperity” with God’s Money but to use it to the poor supporting the weak as it’s more Blessed to Give than to Receive and himself even working as long as he can. This is the “Example” of a True Shepherd of Christ.
4) True Pastors receive their living only from the Gospel and Give the rest of the collection to Ministry and the Poor. The Best among them even work for their own needs & share with others and do “not” even take the money collection for their needs as long as they are able to work.
In Verses below, Apostle St. Paul wrote that God Allows pastors to receive “their living” (or “needs”) from the Gospel money collection but not prosperity as this can be equivalent to robbing God and the poor to whom the money ought to be given, Verses:
“… 14Even so the Lord has commanded that those who preach the gospel should live from the gospel. 15But I have used none of these things, nor have I written these things that it should be done so to me; … 18What is my reward then? That when I preach the gospel, I may present the gospel of Christ without charge, that I may not abuse my authority in the gospel. …” (1 Corinthians 9:14 – 15, 18, NKJV)
“… Freely you have received, freely give. …” – God in Flesh, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 10:8, NKJV)
If we are not obeying these Verses, we may be Doing the opposite to these Verses (or a mixture of it) sometimes ‘unknowingly’:
“… No one can serve two masters. Either you will hate the one and love the other, or you will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money. …” (Matthew 6:24, NIV)
Yes, ‘working with your own hands’ (a secular job) is ‘God’s Preferred Will’, Verses:
“… So, because he [Apostle Paul] was of the same trade, he stayed with them and worked; for by occupation they were tentmakers. …” (Acts 18:3, NKJV)
“… And we labor, working with our own hands. Being reviled, we bless; being persecuted, we endure; …” (1 Corinthians 4:12, NKJV)
The highest pastoral way is when the ‘pastor works hard at a secular job’ and ‘shares his income’ with those with him (in analogy as a ‘parent who provides for the children’) instead of the other way around, Verses:
“… Yes, you yourselves know that these hands have provided for my necessities, and for those who were with me. …” – Blessed St. Paul the Great Apostle of Christ (Acts 20:34 NKJV)
Yes what God means in “… nor did My shepherds search for My flock, but THE SHEPHERDS FED THEMSELVES and DID NOT FEED MY FLOCK” …” (Ezekiel 34:8) is that Shepherds/Pastors sometimes cannot feed every sheep due to lack of income or collection but they put an effort to do this “Charity Doctrine” toward those whom they can as the New Testament Verses below agree perfectly:
“… Now for the third time I am ready to come to you. And I will not be burdensome to you; for I do not seek yours, but you. For the CHILDREN OUGHT NOT TO LAY UP FOR THE PARENTS, BUT THE PARENTS FOR THE CHILDREN. …” (2 Corinthians 12:14, NKJV)
5) The Apostolic Decree of Preaching the Gospel only Works if we “remember the Poor” by Doing the “Charity Doctrine” toward them
This agrees with the Apostolic Decision of apart from Preaching the Gospel, it only works if they “remember the poor” which is nothing else than doing the “Charity Doctrine”, Verse:
“… They [The PILLARS, APOSTLES] DESIRED ONLY that we should REMEMBER THE POOR, the very thing which I also was eager to do. …” (Galatians 2:10, NKJV)
Giving to the Poor is equivalent to Giving to God, Verse:
“… He who has PITY ON THE POOR LENDS TO THE LORD, And He will pay back what he has given. …” (Proverbs 19:17, NKJV)
“… He who has a GENEROUS EYE WILL BE BLESSED, For he GIVES OF HIS BREAD TO THE POOR. …” (Proverbs 22:9, NKJV)
So, “Prosperity Hoarding” doesn’t focus on giving to the poor which is the same as saying that they’re not interested in Giving to God. Can you see it? In other words, if someone is interested in Giving to God, he will Give to the Poor as that’s what is Written in Verse above and so if he doesn’t like giving to the poor and prefers “Prosperity Hoarding” and enjoying life with that money, they are not interested in giving to God.
Giving to a prosperity pastor is not counted because it’s not giving to the poor and is a misuse of God’s Name and worst still any “giving to the rich” (e.g. money given to prosperity pastors or gifts bought for rich people ) may be “cursed” according to Verses below:
“… He who oppresses the poor to increase his riches, And HE WHO GIVES TO THE RICH, WILL SURELY COME TO POVERTY. …” (Proverbs 22:16, NKJV)
“… He who gives to the poor will not lack, But he WHO HIDES HIS EYES WILL HAVE MANY CURSES …” (Proverbs 28:27, NKJV)
If the curse is not fulfilled in this life as many of the rich-wicked don’t get judged on earth (Psalm 72:3 – 5, 12, 16 – 20), they will find themselves in poverty in Hell as the Story of the Rich Man and Lazarus reveals as Christ Himself Taught (in Luke 16:19 – 31).
“… So is he who LAYS UP TREASURE FOR HIMSELF, and is NOT RICH TOWARD GOD. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 12:21, NKJV)
A Warning:
“… 1Come now, YOU RICH, weep and howl for your miseries that are coming upon you! 2Your riches are corrupted, and your garments are moth-eaten. 3Your GOLD and SILVER are corroded, and their corrosion will be a witness against you and will EAT YOUR FLESH LIKE FIRE. You have HEAPED up TREASURE in the LAST DAYS. … 5You have lived on the earth in PLEASURE and LUXURY; you have fattened your hearts as in a DAY of SLAUGHTER. …”
– Blessed St. James the Just, First Bishop of Jerusalem (James 5:1 – 3, 5, NKJV)
Relative Measure comes in where more is given, more is required:
“… Therefore, to him who knows to do good and does not do it, to him it is sin. …” (James 4:17, NKJV)
Only a Sharing Rich Man is Saved, Verses:
“… 17COMMAND THOSE WHO ARE RICH in this present age not to be haughty, nor to trust in uncertain riches but in the living God, who gives us richly all things to enjoy. 18Let THEM DO GOOD, that they be RICH IN GOOD WORKS, READY TO GIVE, WILLING TO SHARE, 19storing up for themselves a good foundation for the time to come, that THEY MAY LAY HOLD ON ETERNAL LIFE. …” (1 Timothy 6:17 – 19, NKJV)
Blessed Job was one of the most Righteous men to walk the earth and was one of God’s Favourite and though he was rich he was full of the Charity Doctrine, Verses:
“… 16“If I have kept the POOR from their desire,
Or caused the eyes of the WIDOW to fail,
17Or EATEN MY MORSEL BY MYSELF,
So that the FATHERLESS could not eat of it
18(But from my youth I REARED HIM AS A FATHER,
And from my mother’s womb I GUIDED [D]THE WIDOW);
19If I have seen ANYONE PERISH FOR LACK OF CLOTHING,
Or ANY POOR MAN WITHOUT COVERING;
20If his [e]heart has not blessed me,
And if he was not WARMED WITH THE FLEECE OF MY SHEEP;
21If I have RAISED MY HAND AGAINST THE FATHERLESS,
When I saw I had help in the gate;
22Then let my arm fall from my shoulder,
Let my arm be torn from the socket.
23For destruction from God is a terror to me,
And because of His magnificence I cannot endure. …” (Job 31:16 – 23, NKJV)
“… The RIGHTEOUS CONSIDERS THE CAUSE OF THE POOR, But the WICKED does NOT UNDERSTAND SUCH KNOWLEDGE. …” (Proverbs 29:7, NKJV)
6) True Happiness or Blessedness comes only with Giving to the Poor in some way
True “Happiness/Blessedness” only belongs to those who show “Mercy or Give to the Poor” according to Verse below:
“… 21He who despises his neighbor sins;
But he who has MERCY ON THE POOR, HAPPY IS HE. …” (Proverbs 14:21, NKJV)
Inference: so the happier a person will be if he has more Mercy (or Giving) to the Poor.
7) Giving to the Poor Honours God
“… 31He who oppresses the poor reproaches his Maker, but HE WHO HONORS HIM HAS MERCY ON THE NEEDY. …” (Proverbs 14:31, NKJV)
So, if one wishes to Honour God more, give more to the poor. The opposite can be true too namely, the lesser one gives to the poor as per the “Prosperity Gospel”, the lesser one honours God. Can you see it? God doesn’t Count in the amount but in Percentage as the Case of the Poor Widow proves in Verses below by Christ Himself and so the giving by “Prosperity Christians” is actually “little” according to Christ, Verses:
“… 1And He looked up and saw the rich putting their gifts into the treasury, 2and He saw also a certain poor widow putting in two mites.[a] 3So He said, “TRULY I say to you that this POOR widow has put in MORE THAN ALL; 4for all these out of their abundance have put in offerings [b]for God, but she OUT OF HER POVERTY PUT IN ALL THE LIVELIHOOD THAT SHE HAD.” …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 21:1 – 4, NKJV)
Relative Measure Verses:
“… 46the master of that servant will come on a day when he is not looking for him, and at an hour when he is not aware, and will cut him in two and appoint him his portion with the unbelievers. 47And that servant who KNEW HIS MASTER’S WILL, and did not prepare himself or do according to his will, shall be BEATEN WITH MANY STRIPES. But he who DID NOT KNOW, yet committed things deserving of stripes, shall be BEATEN WITH FEW. For EVERYONE to whom MUCH IS GIVEN, from him MUCH WILL BE REQUIRED; and to whom MUCH HAS BEEN COMMITTED, of him they WILL ASK THE MORE. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 12:46 – 48, NKJV)
Yes, the Context of “Relative Measure” Applies especially in regard to how we Spend our Money in Giving to the Poor according to Christ Himself in Verses below. So a ‘faithfulness’ of a Christian is measured by this aspect too in Judgment, Verses:
“… 9“And I say to you, MAKE FRIENDS FOR YOURSELVES by UNRIGHTEOUS [D]MAMMON, that when [e]you fail, they may receive you into an EVERLASTING HOME. 10He who is faithful in what is least is faithful also in much; and he who is unjust in what is least is unjust also in much. 11Therefore IF YOU HAVE NOT BEEN FAITHFUL IN THE UNRIGHTEOUS MAMMON, WHO WILL COMMIT TO YOUR TRUST THE TRUE RICHES? 12And if you have not been faithful in what is another man’s, who will give you what is your own? 13“No servant can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, or else he will be loyal to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and mammon.” …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 16:9 – 13, NKJV)
8) The Devil robs you of Abundant Life of the Kingdom by reducing your rewards and Glory by making you waste your money by “giving to the rich” or by “reducing your giving to the poor”.
In another translation:
“… 9Here’s the lesson: USE YOUR WORLDLY RESOURCES to BENEFIT OTHERS AND MAKE FRIENDS. Then, when your possessions are gone, they will welcome you to an ETERNAL HOME. 10“If you are faithful in little things, you will be faithful in large ones. But if you are dishonest in little things, you won’t be honest with greater responsibilities. 11And IF YOU ARE UNTRUSTWORTHY ABOUT WORLDLY WEALTH, who will trust you with the TRUE RICHES OF HEAVEN? 12And if you are not faithful with other people’s things, why should you be trusted with things of your own? …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 16:9 – 12, NLT)
What transaction is Christ Talking about? The “Charity Doctrine” as Luke records it in another place revealing these related details as follows:
“… 31“But SEEK HIS KINGDOM, and THESE THINGS will be ADDED TO YOU. 32“Do not be afraid, little flock, for your Father has chosen gladly to give you the kingdom. 33“SELL YOUR POSSESSIONS and GIVE TO CHARITY; make yourselves money belts which do not wear out, an UNFAILING TREASURE IN HEAVEN, where no thief comes near nor moth destroys. 34“For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. 35“Be dressed in readiness, and KEEP YOUR LAMPS LIT. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 12:31 – 35, NASB)
Reward in Heaven from the Father too is implied for those who do Charity Doctrine in Secret while an earthly reward is given to those who do the Charity Doctrine out of vainglory, Verses:
“…1“Take heed that you do not do your charitable deeds before men, to be seen by them. Otherwise you have NO REWARD FROM YOUR FATHER IN HEAVEN. 2Therefore, when you do a charitable deed, do not sound a trumpet before you as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets, that they may have glory from men. Assuredly, I SAY TO YOU, THEY HAVE THEIR REWARD. 3But when you do a charitable deed, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, 4that your charitable deed may be in secret; and your Father who SEES IN SECRET WILL HIMSELF REWARD YOU [a]OPENLY. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 6:1 – 5, NKJV)
9) Which Poor to Give to?
“… When you reap your harvest in your field, and forget a sheaf in the field, you shall not go back to get it; it shall be for the stranger, the fatherless, and the widow, that the LORD your God may bless you in all the work of your hands. …” (Deuteronomy 24:19, NKJV)
“… If there is among you a poor man of your brethren, within any of the gates in your land which the LORD your God is giving you, you shall not harden your heart nor shut your hand from your poor brother, …” (Deuteronomy 15:7, NKJV)
“… 21Therefore lay aside all filthiness and [d]overflow of wickedness, and receive with meekness the implanted word, which is able to save your souls. 22But be DOERS OF THE WORD, and NOT HEARERS ONLY, deceiving yourselves. … 25But he who looks into the perfect law of liberty and continues in it, and is NOT A FORGETFUL HEARER but A DOER OF THE WORK, this one will be BLESSED in what he does. 26If anyone [e]among you thinks he is religious, and does not bridle his tongue but deceives his own heart, this one’s RELIGION IS USELESS. 27PURE AND UNDEFILED RELIGION before God and the Father is this: TO VISIT ORPHANS AND WIDOWS in THEIR TROUBLE, and to KEEP ONESELF UNSPOTTED FROM THE WORLD. …” (James 1:21 – 22, 25 – 27, NKJV)
“… 12Then He also said to him who invited Him, “When you give a dinner or a supper, do not ask your friends, your brothers, your relatives, NOR RICH NEIGHBORS, lest they also invite you back, and you be repaid. 13But when you give a feast, INVITE the POOR, THE MAIMED, THE LAME, THE BLIND. 14And you will be BLESSED, because they cannot repay you; for you shall be REPAID at the RESURRECTION OF THE JUST.” …” (Luke 14:12 – 14, NKJV)
Saints are usually Poor too:
“… For it pleased those from Macedonia and Achaia to make a certain contribution for the POOR AMONG THE SAINTS who are in Jerusalem. …” (Romans 15:26, NKJV)
“… 32Now the multitude of those who BELIEVED were of ONE HEART and ONE SOUL; neither did anyone say that ANY of the THINGS he POSSESSED was HIS OWN, but they had ALL THINGS in COMMON. … 34Nor was there anyone among them who lacked; for ALL who were POSSESSORS of LANDS or HOUSES SOLD them, and brought the proceeds of the things that were sold, 35and laid them at the apostles’ feet; and they DISTRIBUTED to each as ANYONE had NEED. 36And Joses, who was also named Barnabas by the apostles (which is translated Son of Encouragement), a Levite of the country of Cyprus, 37having land, sold it, and brought the money and laid it at the apostles’ feet. …” (Acts 4:32, 34 – 37, NKJV)
10) First Christianity Apostolic Fathers of the Church Taught this Charity/Almsgiving Doctrine
“… 2Clem 16:1 Therefore, brethren, since we have found no small opportunity for repentance, seeing that we have time, let us turn again unto God that called us, while we have still One that receiveth us.2Clem 16:2 For if we bid farewell to these enjoyments and conquer our soul in refusing to fulfill its evil lusts, we shall be partakers of the mercy of Jesus. 2Clem 16:3 But ye know that the day of judgment cometh even now as a burning oven, and the powers of the heavens shall melt, and all the earth as lead melting on the fire, and then shall appear the secret and open works of men. 2Clem 16:4 ALMSGIVING therefore is a good thing, EVEN AS REPENTANCE FROM SIN> FASTING IS BETTER THAN PRAYER, but ALMSGIVING BETTER THAN BOTH. And LOVE COVERETH A MULTITUDE OF SINS, but prayer out of a good conscience delivereth from death. BLESSED IS EVERY MAN that is FOUND FULL OF THESE. For ALMSGIVING LIFTETH OFF THE BURDEN OF SIN. 2Clem 17:1 Let us therefore repent with our whole heart, lest any of us perish by the way. For if we have received commands, that we should make this our business, to tear men away from idols and to instruct them, how much more is it wrong that a soul which knoweth God already should perish! …” (2 Clement, Attributed to Blessed St. Clement of Rome, a direct Disciple of the Blessed Apostle St. Peter, c.35 AD – c. 99 AD)
Source: http://www.earlychristianwritings.com/text/2clement-lightfoot.html
Comment: Just like Giving to the Poor has Great Rewards and Blessedness, not Giving to the Poor equivalently merits terrible Judgments and Curses.
“… STAND FAST, therefore, in these things, and FOLLOW THE EXAMPLE OF THE LORD, being firm and UNCHANGEABLE IN THE FAITH, loving the brotherhood, and being attached to one another, joined together in the truth, exhibiting the meekness of the Lord in your intercourse with one another, and despising no one. When YOU CAN DO GOOD, DEFER IT NOT, because “ALMS DELIVERS FROM DEATH.” [Tobit 12:9]” Be all of you subject one to another? having your conduct blameless among the Gentiles,” that YE MAY BOTH RECEIVE PRAISE FOR YOUR GOOD WORKS, and the Lord may not be blasphemed through you. But WOE TO HIM by whom the name of the Lord is blasphemed! Teach, therefore, sobriety to all, and manifest it also in your own conduct. …” – Blessed St. Polycarp, Bishop of Smryna, an Apostolic Father being the Disciple of the Blessed St. John the Apostle who wrote the Book of Revelation (c. 69 AD – c. 155 AD, CHAPTER X.–EXHORTATION TO THE PRACTICE OF VIRTUE, THE EPISTLE OF POLYCARP TO THE PHILIPPIANS)
Source: http://www.earlychristianwritings.com/text/polycarp-roberts.html
“… if you TURN to Me with YOUR WHOLE HEART, and say, Father! I will listen to you, as to a holy people.” And in another place He says: “WASH, and BECOME CLEAN; put away the wickedness of your souls from before my eyes; CEASE FROM YOUR EVIL WAYS, and LEARN TO DO WELL; seek out judgment, deliver the oppressed, JUDGE THE FATHERLESS, and SEE THAT JUSTICE IS DONE TO THE WIDOW; and come, and let us reason together. He declares, “THOUGH YOUR SINS BE LIKE CRIMSON, I WILL MAKE THEM WHITE AS SNOW; THOUGH THEY BE LIKE SCARLET, I WILL WHITEN THEM LIKE WOOL. And IF YOU ARE WILLING AND OBEY ME, you shall eat the good of the land; but if you refuse, and will not listen to Me, the sword shall devour you, for the mouth of the Lord has spoken these things.” [Isaiah 1:16 – 20] Desiring, therefore, that all His beloved should be PARTAKERS OF REPENTANCE, He has, by His ALMIGHTY WILL, ESTABLISHED [THESE DECLARATIONS]. …” – Blessed St. Clement of Rome, an Apostolic Father being a direct Disciple of the Blessed Apostle St. Peter (c.35 AD – c. 99 AD, 1 Clement Chapter 8)
Source: http://www.earlychristianwritings.com/text/1clement-roberts.html
I have quoted two Apostolic Fathers of the Church (St. Clement of Rome a direct Disciple of Apostle St. Peter and St. Polycarp the direct Disciple of Apostle St. John teaching this “Charity Doctrine” as a Doctrine for Repentance and Sanctification in quotes above; it cannot be that they’re wrong which agrees perfectly with so many Bible Verses from so many Prophets and Including Lord Jesus Christ Himself.).
11) Almsgiving is Prayer in Action
“… ‘Why have WE FASTED,’ they say, ‘and YOU HAVE NOT SEEN? Why have WE AFFLICTED OUR SOULS, and YOU TAKE NO NOTICE?’ … 7Is it not to SHARE YOUR BREAD with the HUNGRY, And that you bring to your house THE POOR who are cast out;
When you see THE NAKED, that you cover him,
And not hide yourself from YOUR OWN FLESH?
8Then YOUR LIGHT shall break forth like the MORNING, YOUR HEALING shall spring forth speedily, And your righteousness shall go before you; The glory of the Lord shall be your rear guard.
9Then you shall call, and the Lord will answer;
You shall cry, and He will say, ‘Here I am.’ …” (Isaiah 58:3, 7 – 9, NKJV)
“… 21“I HATE, I despise your feast days,
And I do NOT SAVOR your SACRED ASSEMBLIES.
22Though you offer Me burnt offerings and your grain offerings, I will NOT ACCEPT them, NOR will I regard your fattened peace offerings.
23TAKE AWAY from Me the NOISE of YOUR SONGS,
For I will NOT HEAR the MELODY of your STRINGED INSTRUMENTS. 24But let JUSTICE run down like water, And RIGHTEOUSNESS like a mighty stream. … 10They HATE the one who REBUKES in the gate,
And they ABHOR the one who SPEAKS UPRIGHTLY.
11Therefore, BECAUSE YOU TREAD DOWN THE POOR And take grain taxes from him,
Though you have built houses of hewn stone,
Yet you shall not dwell in them;
You have planted pleasant vineyards,
But you shall not drink wine from them.
12For I know YOUR MANIFOLD TRANSGRESSIONS
And YOUR MIGHTY SINS:
AFFLICTING THE JUST and TAKING BRIBES;
DIVERTING THE POOR FROM JUSTICE at the gate. …” (Amos 5:21 – 24, 10 – 12, NKJV)
“… 10Hear the WORD OF THE LORD,
You RULERS OF SODOM;
GIVE EAR to the LAW OF OUR GOD,
You PEOPLE OF GOMORRAH:
11“To what PURPOSE is the MULTITUDE OF YOUR SACRIFICES TO ME?”
Says the Lord.
“I have had enough of burnt offerings of rams
And the fat of fed cattle.
I do not delight in the blood of bulls,
Or of lambs or goats.
12“When you come to appear before Me,
Who has required this from your hand,
To trample My courts?
13Bring no more futile[f] sacrifices;
Incense is an abomination to Me.
The New Moons, the Sabbaths, and the CALLING OF ASSEMBLIES—
I CANNOT ENDURE INIQUITY and THE SACRED MEETING.
14Your New Moons and your appointed feasts
MY SOUL HATES;
They are a trouble to Me,
I am weary of bearing them.
15When you [g]spread out your hands,
I will hide My eyes from you;
Even though YOU MAKE MANY PRAYERS
I WILL NOT HEAR.
Your HANDS ARE FULL OF [H]BLOOD.
16“Wash yourselves, make yourselves clean;
Put away the evil of your doings from before My eyes.
Cease to do evil,
17LEARN TO DO GOOD;
Seek justice,
REBUKE [I]THE OPPRESSOR;
[j]DEFEND THE FATHERLESS,
PLEAD FOR THE WIDOW. …” (Isaiah 1:10 – 17, NKJV)
“… 8Then the word of the Lord came to zechariah, saying, 9“Thus SAYS THE LORD OF HOSTS:
‘EXECUTE TRUE JUSTICE,
Show [g]MERCY AND COMPASSION
EVERYONE TO HIS BROTHER.
10DO NOT OPPRESS THE WIDOW OR THE FATHERLESS,
The ALIEN OR THE POOR.
Let none of you plan evil in his heart
Against his brother.’
11“But THEY REFUSED TO HEED, SHRUGGED[H] THEIR SHOULDERS, and STOPPED[I] THEIR EARS SO THAT THEY COULD NOT HEAR. 12Yes, they made their hearts like flint, REFUSING TO HEAR the law and THE WORDS WHICH THE LORD OF HOSTS HAD SENT BY HIS SPIRIT THROUGH THE FORMER PROPHETS. Thus GREAT WRATH came from the Lord of hosts. 13Therefore it happened, that just as He proclaimed and they would not hear, so they called out and I would not listen,” says the Lord of hosts. 14“But I SCATTERED THEM with a whirlwind AMONG ALL THE NATIONS which they had not known. Thus the land became desolate after them, so that no one passed through or returned; for they made the pleasant land desolate.” …” (Zechariah 7:8 – 14, NKJV)
“… Look, this was the iniquity of your sister SODOM: She and her daughter had PRIDE, FULLNESS OF FOOD, and ABUNDANCE OF IDLENESS; NEITHER did she strengthen the hand of the POOR and NEEDY. …” (Ezekiel 16:49, NKJV)
“… Did not your father eat and drink,
And do JUSTICE AND RIGHTEOUSNESS?
Then IT WAS WELL WITH HIM.
16HE [F]JUDGED THE CAUSE OF THE POOR AND NEEDY;
THEN IT WAS WELL.
WAS NOT THIS KNOWING ME?” SAYS THE LORD.
17“Yet your eyes and your heart are for nothing but your covetousness,
For shedding innocent blood,
And practicing oppression and violence.” …” (Jeremiah 22:15 – 17, NKJV)
“… 16By this WE KNOW LOVE, because He laid down His life for us. And we also OUGHT TO LAY DOWN OUR LIVES FOR THE BRETHREN. 17But WHOEVER HAS THIS WORLD’S GOODS, and SEES HIS BROTHER IN NEED, AND SHUTS UP HIS HEART FROM HIM, HOW DOES THE LOVE OF GOD ABIDE IN HIM? 18My little children, let us NOT LOVE IN WORD or IN TONGUE, BUT IN DEED AND IN TRUTH …” (1 John 3:16 – 18, NKJV)
“… 14What does it profit, my brethren, if someone says he has faith but does not have works? CAN FAITH SAVE HIM? 15If a brother or sister IS NAKED AND DESTITUTE OF DAILY FOOD, 16and 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? 17Thus also faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead. …” (James 2:14 – 17, NKJV)
12) Giving to the Poor is a Sanctification Doctrine
The “Lukewarm Church” is the “Prosperity Gospel” Church which “… says, ‘I am rich, have become wealthy, and have need of nothing’ …” (as no other sin is mentioned of them say sexual immorality or anything else as Christ Warned the other Churches in Revelation) but yet Christ Calls them to “Repent” (meaning that they’re not necessarily Saved) in Verses below where they are exhorted to buy “spiritual gold refined in fire” to be truly “rich with Eternal Treasure in the heavens” with the “Charity Doctrine Works” (e.g. Luke 12:30 – 34, Matthew 6:1 – 5) instead of the “earthly gold” they had, Verses:
“… 14“And to the [i]angel of the church [j]of the Laodiceans write, ‘These things says the Amen, the Faithful and True Witness, the Beginning of the creation of God: 15“I KNOW YOUR WORKS, that you are neither cold nor hot. I could wish you were cold or hot. 16So then, because YOU ARE LUKEWARM, and neither [k]cold nor hot, I will vomit you out of My mouth. 17Because you say, ‘I AM RICH, HAVE BECOME WEALTHY, and HAVE NEED OF NOTHING’—and do not know that YOU ARE WRETCHED, MISERABLE, POOR, BLIND, AND NAKED— 18I counsel you to BUY FROM ME GOLD REFINED IN THE FIRE, that YOU MAY BE RICH; and white garments, that you may be clothed, that the shame of your nakedness may not be revealed; and anoint your eyes with eye salve, that you may see. 19As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten.[l] Therefore be [m]zealous and repent. 20Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and dine with him, and he with Me. 21To him who overcomes I will grant to sit with Me on My throne, as I also overcame and sat down with My Father on His throne.22“He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches.” ’ …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Revelation 3:14 – 22, NKJV)
“… 16“WASH YOURSELVES, MAKE YOURSELVES CLEAN;
Put away the evil of your doings from before My eyes.
CEASE TO DO EVIL,
17Learn to DO GOOD;
Seek justice,
Rebuke [i]the oppressor;
[j]DEFEND THE FATHERLESS,
PLEAD FOR THE WIDOW.
18“Come now, and let us reason together,”
Says the Lord,
“Though YOUR SINS ARE LIKE SCARLET,
They shall be as WHITE AS SNOW;
Though they are RED LIKE CRIMSON,
They shall BE AS WOOL.
19IF YOU ARE WILLING AND OBEDIENT,
You shall eat the good of the land;
20But if you refuse and rebel,
You shall be devoured by the sword”;
For the MOUTH OF THE LORD HAS SPOKEN. …” (Isaiah 1:16 – 20, NKJV)
“… Wherefore, O king, let my counsel be acceptable unto thee, and BREAK OFF THY SINS BY RIGHTEOUSNESS, and THINE INIQUITIES BY SHEWING MERCY TO THE POOR; if it may be a lengthening of thy tranquillity. …” – Blessed and Holy Prophet Daniel (Daniel 4:27, KJV)
“… Therefore I say to you, HER SINS, which are MANY, ARE FORGIVEN, for SHE LOVED MUCH. But to whom little is forgiven, the same loves little. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 7:47, NKJV)
“… 4Unto the UPRIGHT there arises light in the darkness; He is GRACIOUS, and full of COMPASSION, and righteous. 5A GOOD MAN deals GRACIOUSLY and LENDS; He will guide his affairs with discretion. 6Surely he will never be shaken;
The RIGHTEOUS will be in EVERLASTING REMEMBRANCE. 7He will not be afraid of evil tidings; His heart is steadfast, trusting in the Lord.
8His heart is established; He will not be afraid, Until he sees his desire upon his enemies. 9He has DISPERSED ABROAD, He has GIVEN to the POOR;
HIS RIGHTEOUSNESS ENDURES FOREVER; HIS HORN will be EXALTED with HONOR. 10The WICKED will SEE it and be GRIEVED; He will GNASH his TEETH and melt away; The desire of the wicked shall PERISH. …” (Psalm 119:4 – 10, NKJV)
“… 9As it is written:
“He has dispersed abroad,
He has GIVEN TO THE POOR;
His RIGHTEOUSNESS endures FOREVER.”
10Now [g]may He who supplies seed to the sower, and bread for food, [h]supply and multiply the seed you have sown and INCREASE THE FRUITS OF YOUR RIGHTEOUSNESS, 11while you are enriched in everything for ALL LIBERALITY, which causes THANKSGIVING THROUGH US TO GOD. 12For the ADMINISTRATION OF THIS SERVICE not only SUPPLIES THE NEEDS OF THE SAINTS, but also is ABOUNDING THROUGH MANY THANKSGIVINGS TO GOD, 13while, through the PROOF OF THIS MINISTRY, THEY GLORIFY GOD for the OBEDIENCE OF YOUR CONFESSION to the GOSPEL OF CHRIST, and for YOUR LIBERAL SHARING WITH THEM and ALL MEN, …” (2 Corinthians 9:9 – 13, NKJV)
“… 25And behold, a certain lawyer stood up and tested Him, saying, “Teacher, what shall I DO TO INHERIT ETERNAL LIFE?” 26He said to him, “What is WRITTEN IN THE LAW? What is YOUR READING OF IT?” 27So he answered and said, “ ‘You shall LOVE THE LORD YOUR GOD with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your strength, and with all your mind,’ and ‘YOUR NEIGHBOR AS YOURSELF.’ ” 28And He said to him, “You have answered rightly; DO THIS AND YOU WILL LIVE.” 29But he, wanting to justify himself, said to Jesus, “And WHO IS MY NEIGHBOR?” 30Then JESUS ANSWERED and said: “A certain man went down from Jerusalem to Jericho, and fell among thieves, who stripped him of his clothing, wounded him, and departed, leaving him half dead. 31Now by chance a certain priest came down that road. And when he saw him, he passed by on the other side. 32Likewise a Levite, when he arrived at the place, came and looked, and passed by on the other side. 33But a certain Samaritan, as he journeyed, came where he was. And when he saw him, he had COMPASSION. 34So he went to him and BANDAGED HIS WOUNDS, pouring on oil and wine; and he set him on his own animal, brought him to an inn, and TOOK CARE OF HIM. 35On the next day, when he departed, he took out two denarii, gave them to the innkeeper, and said to him, ‘TAKE CARE OF HIM; and WHATEVER MORE YOU SPEND, when I come again, I WILL REPAY YOU.’ 36So which of these three do you think was NEIGHBOR to him who fell among the thieves? 37And he said, “He who SHOWED MERCY on him.”
Then JESUS SAID to him, “GO AND DO LIKEWISE.”…” (Luke 10:25 – 37, NKJV)
“… 7Then he said to the multitudes that came out to be baptized by him, “Brood of vipers! Who warned you to flee from the wrath to come? 8Therefore bear FRUITS WORTHY OF REPENTANCE, and do not begin 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. 9And 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.” 10So the people asked him, saying, “What shall we do then?” 11He answered and said to them, “HE WHO HAS TWO TUNICS, let him GIVE TO HIM WHO HAS NONE; and HE WHO HAS FOOD, LET HIM DO LIKEWISE.” 12Then tax collectors also came to be baptized, and said to him, “Teacher, what shall we do?” 13And he said to them, “COLLECT NO MORE THAN WHAT IS APPOINTED FOR YOU.” 14Likewise the soldiers asked him, saying, “And what shall we do?” So he said to them, “DO NOT INTIMIDATE ANYONE or ACCUSE FALSELY, and BE CONTENT WITH YOUR WAGES. …” (Luke 3:7 – 14, NKJV)
“… 21Jesus said to him, “IF you want to be PERFECT, go, SELL what YOU HAVE and GIVE to the POOR, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, FOLLOW ME.” 22But when the young man heard that saying, he went away SORROWFUL, for he had GREAT POSSESSIONS.23Then Jesus said to His disciples, “Assuredly, I say to you that it is HARD for a RICH MAN TO ENTER THE KINGDOM OF HEAVEN. 24And AGAIN I say to you, it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God. …” (Matthew 19:21 – 24, NKJV)
Charity Doctrine is part of the Mysterious the “Law of Christ”, Verse:
“… Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ. …” (Galatians 6:2, NKJV)
“… (39Then the Lord said to him), “Now you Pharisees make the outside of the cup and dish clean, but your INWARD part is full of GREED and WICKEDNESS. 40Foolish ones! Did not He who made the outside make the INSIDE also? 41But rather GIVE ALMS [CHARITY] of SUCH THINGS AS YOU HAVE; then indeed ALL THINGS are CLEAN to you. . …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 11:39 – 41, NKJV)
Peace to you
Polycarp Disciple of John the Apostle Quotes Tobit’s Almsgiving Doctrine as Scripture
Firstly, are these writings genuine?
We know that the Roman Catholic or Orthodox did “not” manipulate or change these Apostolic Fathers Writings (referring to those who were direct Disciples of the Apostles themselves or sometimes their direct disciples) because if it were so, for example “no” prayers to Virgin Mary is found in even one of them (which is a shock to most Catholic/Orthodox if they realize this). Also if these were fake, then we cannot even trust New Testament Scripture because it was first preserved by the Catholics and Orthodox which is used by Protestants since Martin Luther used them too and did not write the New Testament Scripture by Inspiration.
Now let’s look at Polycarp’s Quote:
“… 1 STAND FAST THEREFORE IN THESE THINGS and FOLLOW THE EXAMPLE OF THE LORD, “firm and unchangeable in faith, loving the brotherhood, affectionate to one another,” joined together in the truth, forestalling one another in the gentleness of the Lord, despising no man. 2 When you can do good defer it not, “FOR ALMSGIVING SETS FREE FROM DEATH [Tobit 12:9]; be ye all subject one to the other, having your conversation blameless among the Gentiles,” that you may receive praise “FOR YOUR GOOD WORKS” and that the Lord be not blasphemed in you. 3 “But woe to him through whom the name of the Lord is blasphemed.” Therefore teach sobriety to all and show it forth in your own lives. …” – Blessed St. Polycarp, Bishop of Smryna, an Apostolic Father being the Disciple of the Blessed St. John the Apostle who wrote the Book of Revelation (c. 69 AD – c. 155 AD, Chapter 10, THE EPISTLE OF POLYCARP TO THE PHILIPPIANS)
Source:
http://www.earlychristianwritings.com/text/polycarp-lake.html
From another translation of that same quote:
“… STAND FAST, therefore, in these things, and FOLLOW THE EXAMPLE OF THE LORD, being firm and UNCHANGEABLE IN THE FAITH, loving the brotherhood, and being attached to one another, joined together in the truth, exhibiting the meekness of the Lord in your intercourse with one another, and despising no one. When YOU CAN DO GOOD, DEFER IT NOT, because “ALMS DELIVERS FROM DEATH.” [Tobit 12:9]” Be all of you subject one to another? having your conduct blameless among the Gentiles,” that YE MAY BOTH RECEIVE PRAISE FOR YOUR GOOD WORKS, and the Lord may not be blasphemed through you. But WOE TO HIM by whom the name of the Lord is blasphemed! Teach, therefore, sobriety to all, and manifest it also in your own conduct. …” – Blessed St. Polycarp, Bishop of Smryna, an Apostolic Father being the Disciple of the Blessed St. John the Apostle who wrote the Book of Revelation (c. 69 AD – c. 155 AD, CHAPTER X.–EXHORTATION TO THE PRACTICE OF VIRTUE, THE EPISTLE OF POLYCARP TO THE PHILIPPIANS)
Source:
http://www.earlychristianwritings.com/text/polycarp-roberts.html
Basically Polycarp is saying that to “follow the Example of the Lord” and being in the “unchangeable faith” requires a Christian to do the “Charity Doctrine” because “Alms deliver from Death” and those who DON’T DO this risk causing the “Most Holy Name of the LORD to the BLASPHEMED” and Polycarp announces a Judgment of Scripture or “WOE” to ‘Christians or believers’ who by “not” doing these ALMS/GOOD WORKS (“Charity Doctrine”) causes the Name of the LORD to be BLASPHEMED. Please take note Carefully that Polycarp only refers to the ALMS/CHARITY Doctrine in his quote above about which “Good Work” he is referring to as no other type of Good Work is mentioned particularly here proving this Context as most important (Please Compare with Judgment Day Verses too, Matthew 25:31 – 46 where a Christian ought to excel in these).
Almsgiving Doctrine is part of “… How to follow the Example of the Lord by Polycarp …” in his quote above proving the Context for “… Follow Me …” By Christ (please see Matthew 19:21, Luke 12:30 – 34, Luke 12:21 and Luke 11:41 too).
Polycarp is quoting the following Verse in Tobit which is attributed to Archangel Raphael himself:
“… 6 Then he said to them SECRETLY: Bless ye the God of heaven, give glory to him in the sight of all that live, because he hath shewn his mercy to you. 7 For it is good to hide the secret of a king: but honourable to reveal and confess the works of God. 8 PRAYER IS GOOD WITH FASTING AND ALMS MORE THAN to lay up treasures of gold: 9 For ALMS DELIVERETH from DEATH, and the same is that which PURGETH AWAY SINS, and maketh to FIND MERCY AND LIFE EVERLASTING. … 15 For I am the angel RAPHAEL, one of the seven who stand before the Lord. …” (Bible Scripture.Net Translation, Tobit 12:6 – 9, 15)
Source: https://biblescripture.net/Tobias.html
In another Translation (next) and a related “Almsgiving” Quote from Tobit (because even if Tobit is not inspired Scripture if some claim, the Jews still accept it as Truth & Polycarp clearly quotes the Almsgiving Doctrine quote part as Scripture or Truth hence these parts can be followed), to quote:
i) Testimony of Blessed Tobit
“… 7 GIVE GENEROUSLY to anyone who faithfully obeys God. If you are stingy in giving to the poor, God will be stingy in giving to you. 8 Give according to what you have. THE MORE YOU HAVE, THE MORE YOU SHOULD GIVE. Even if you have only a little, be sure to give something. 9 This is as good as money saved. You will have your reward in a time of trouble. 10-11 TAKING CARE OF THE POOR is the kind of offering that PLEASES GOD IN HEAVEN. DO THIS, and YOU WILL BE KEPT SAFE FROM THE DARK WORLD OF THE DEAD. …” (Good News Translation, Tobit 4:7 – 11)
Source:
https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Tobit+4&version=GNT
The phrases “… TAKING CARE OF THE POOR … . DO THIS, and YOU WILL BE KEPT SAFE FROM THE DARK WORLD OF THE DEAD. …” Agrees with the ‘Judgment Day’ Verses in Matthew 25:31 – 46 perfectly and may point to why God may Save the good non-Christians by Grace & His Mercy (to ‘whomever He Wills’, Romans 9:15 – 16) for doing this Charity Doctrine toward Christians as discussed in an earlier post regarding this “possibility” too.
Note: to ‘whomever He Wills’ in Romans 9:15 – 16 where God Shows Mercy and Saves can mean that if God Wills to Save that person, the evidence could be this ‘Charity Doctrine’ lifestyle that is present. So Salvation is “not” by these works but by God’s Mercy they do these ‘Works of Salvation’.
ii) Testimony of Blessed Archangel Raphael
“… 7 It’s a good idea to keep a king’s secret, but what God does should be told everywhere, so that he may be praised and honored. If you do good, no harm will come to you.8 It is better to pray sincerely and to please God by helping the poor than to be rich and dishonest. It is BETTER TO GIVE TO THE POOR than to store up gold. 9 SUCH GENEROSITY will SAVE YOU FROM DEATH and WILL WASH AWAY ALL YOUR SINS. … 15 I AM RAPHAEL, ONE OF THE SEVEN ANGELS who stand in the glorious presence of the Lord, ready to serve him. …” (Good News Translation, Tobit 12:7 – 9, 15)
Source:
https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Tobit+12&version=GNT
Note: The Almsgiving Doctrine does “not” need to depend on the Book of Tobit at all. The Bible itself reveals it as follows:
“… Wherefore, O king, let my counsel be acceptable unto thee, and BREAK OFF THY SINS BY RIGHTEOUSNESS, and THINE INIQUITIES BY SHEWING MERCY TO THE POOR; if it may be a lengthening of thy tranquillity. …” – Blessed and Holy Prophet Daniel (Daniel 4:27, KJV based on the Masoretic Text)
Source: https://biblehub.com/daniel/4-27.htm
Compare:
” … 27Therefore, O king, let my counsel please thee, and ATONE FOR THY SINS BY ALMS, and THINE INIQUITIES BY COMPASSION ON THE POOR: it may be God will be long-suffering to thy trespasses.” … – Blessed and Holy Prophet Daniel (Daniel 4:27, Brenton Septuagint Translation, based on the Septuagint or LXX)
Source: https://biblehub.com/sep/daniel/4.htm
Comment: The phrase “… God will be long-suffering to thy trespasses …” implies the Context of ‘Judgment of Sins’ is removed.
Yes, each of the above quotes has to do with What Christ Himself Commanded in Luke 11:41 below:
“… But WHAT YE HAVE GIVE YE AS ALMS, and, lo, ALL THINGS are CLEAN TO YOU. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Young’s Literal Translation, Luke 11:41, YLT)
“… But now as for WHAT IS INSIDE YOU–be GENEROUS TO THE POOR, and EVERYTHING WILL BE CLEAN FOR YOU. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 11:41, NIV)
Christ did “not” Say that any ‘other action’ may be substituted for it and please note in Luke 11:41 that this is exactly what the Pharisees ‘failed’ to do though they did charity with Temple money & tithes but not including their own money (Matthew 6:2). It’s secret may be linked to Verse below because “Love” meant is certainly “Love in Action” and “cover sins” is certainly escaping the ‘Judgment of Sins’ because only the Blood of Christ can remove sin & its stain completely but Judgment of Sins can be “covered” by “Almsgiving”, Verses:
“… 41But rather GIVE ALMS of SUCH THINGS AS YOU HAVE; then indeed ALL THINGS ARE CLEAN TO YOU. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 11:41, NKJV)
“… And above all things have fervent love for one another, for “LOVE will COVER a MULTITUDE OF SINS.” …”(1 Peter 4:8, NKJV)
“… 1{A Psalm of David, Maschil.} Blessed is he whose TRANSGRESSION IS FORGIVEN, WHOSE SIN IS COVERED. 2Blessed is the man unto whom the LORD IMPUTETH NOT INIQUITY, and in whose spirit there is no guile. …” (Psalm 32:1 – 2, NKJV)
“… Therefore I say to you, HER SINS, which are MANY, ARE FORGIVEN, for SHE LOVED MUCH. But to whom little is forgiven, the same loves little. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 7:47, NKJV)
Peace to you
Possible Hope for non-Christians who were Good toward Christians & the Gospel
“… 5But the rest of the dead (non-Christian dead) did not live again until the thousand years were finished. … (Revelation 20:5 – 6, NKJV)
“…40“He who receives you receives Me, … 41He who receives a prophet in the name of a prophet shall receive a prophet’s reward. And he who receives a righteous man in the name of a righteous man shall receive a righteous man’s reward. 42And whoever gives one of these little ones only a cup of cold water in the name of a disciple, assuredly, I say to you, he shall by no means lose his reward.” …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 10:40 – 42, highlighted phrases, NKJV)
Since some non-Christians only accept Christ as a righteous man or prophet so according to the level they accept Him, the Verses above can mean that equivalently they get a “reward” according to ‘how much they accept Him’ which is ‘Perfectly Fair’.
Not only that Christ says that those who receive “you” (referring to “Christians”) are considered equivalent to “Receiving Christ” in His Phrase “…40“He who receives you receives Me, …” (Matthew 10:40 above). He also Says “…. 42And whoever gives one of these little ones only a cup of cold water in the name of a disciple, assuredly, I say to you, he shall by no means lose his reward.” …”. Please note that a “Disciple” (is a Christian) and so a ‘Charity Doctrine Act’ Done toward a Christian (example given here is the smallest type which is ‘giving a cup of drinking water to a Christian’) also merits a “reward”.
What is this “Reward”?
Salvation is Free by God’s Mercy to whomever He Wills (Romans 9:15 – 16) and there are those who are Saved on Judgment Day only toward those who never heard of the Gospel (Romans 2:14 – 16) by the ‘Faith of Jesus Christ Imputing His Righteousness by His Faith as He Wills’ (Romans 3:22-KJV). Verse:
“…Even the righteousness of God which is by faith of Jesus Christ unto all and upon all them that believe: for there is no difference: 23For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God; 24Being justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus: …” (Romans 3:22 – 23, KJV)
It is “possible” that the Verse above refers tom two groups of people getting the Free Justification by Faith of Jesus Christ (Christ’s Perfect Faith) to whom the ‘Righteousness of God’ can be Freely Imputed on Judgment Day namely toward “All who sinned” (Romans 3:23) which is called as “All” where the subset of “upon all who believe” is distinguished more “specially” (in Romans 3:22). This distinction may be inferred from Verse below too:
“…For therefore we both labour and suffer reproach, because we trust in the living God, who is the Saviour of all men, specially of those that believe. …” (1 Timothy 4:10, KJV)
In this Free Salvation aspect there is no difference.
The difference is in the rewards and inheritance of the Kingdom as many other Verses signify. It’s understood that Christians are Saved without Judgment (John 5:24) while others may be Saved after they go through the Lake of Fire Judgment first (1 Corinthians 3:13 – 15).
“… 14for when Gentiles, who do not have the law, by nature do the things in the law, these, although not having the law, are a law to themselves, 15who show the work of the law written in their hearts, their conscience also bearing witness, and between themselves their thoughts accusing or else excusing them) 16in the day when God will judge the secrets of men by Jesus Christ, according to my gospel. …” (Romans 2:14 – 16, NKJV)
Also, Romans 3:22 – 23 must include those who are Saved without ever hearing the Gospel case too as Romans 2:14 – 16 above signifies and thus the phrase “Faith of Jesus Christ” in Romans 3:22 must either refer to “Christ’s Perfect Faith Alone” (which I think is the more possible meaning) or to “faith in Christ” (as some translations render) which then must be possible to be obtained on ‘Judgment Day’ only for these as per the ‘believing after seeing the Risen Christ possibility’ (as John 6:40 with John 20:29 points).
The Verse below could point to the “sheep of other fold” (Sheepfold2) to refer to ‘non-Christians who will be good toward Christians’ (hence harmless as sheep too) but they are different from the “current fold” (Sheepfold1) in one aspect namely:
Sheepfold1 listens to “Christ’s Voice now” (hence Christians) while “sheepfold2” is Said to “… will hear His Voice …” meaning that they might not hear His Voice fully on earth now (so possibly these non-Christian relatively good ones):
“… And other sheep I have which are not of this fold; them also I must bring, and they will hear My voice; and there will be one flock and one shepherd. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (John 10:16, NKJV)
The Classical interpretation is that these two folds refer to Jew vs Gentile Sheep (Race based distinction). Either one could be correct but I’m just discussing this “possibility”. It’s to be noted that the “First Resurrection & 1000 Years Millennial Reign of Christ” is only with Christians (Revelation 20:4 – 6) while “the rest of the dead” (non-Christians, Revelation 20:5) are only Raised Bodily & Judged on “Judgment Day” at the End of this 1000 years (Revelation 20:7, Revelation 20:11 – 15, Matthew 25:31 – 46).
So on Judgment Day, some of the “sheep” must include long life “sinners” or mortals too (Isaiah 65:20-KJV) who are ‘Saved’. These are “not” Christians as the time for the number of “Elect” has been Complete (1 Thessalonians 4:13 – 18) with the Wedding of the Lamb (Revelation 19:6 – 10, Matthew 25:1 – 13) followed by the “First Resurrection” & 1000 Years Millennial Reign of Christ (Revelation 20:4 – 6).
So some of the “sheep” mentioned to be Judged on ‘Judgment Day’ (Revelation 20:11 – 15, Matthew 25:31 – 46) must include those who are judged based on their works where Israel/Servants are Judged first as per Matthew 25:14 – 30 Describes.
The rest of the nations (or Gentiles) are likewise Judged based on whether they were kind to the mortal Israel Servants at that time (during the Millennial Reign) and likewise we see the possibility that the good non-Christians from other timelines (now resurrected to be Judged) from among the “rest of the dead” (Revelation 20:5) might likewise be judged for their good deeds toward Christians (Matthew 25:31 – 46).
In light of such an exegesis, the “Receiving Christ” in His Phrase “…40“He who receives you receives Me, …” (Matthew 10:40) as He also Says “…. 42And whoever gives one of these little ones only a cup of cold water in the name of a disciple, assuredly, I say to you, he shall by no means lose his reward.” …”(Matthew 10:42) can be the equivalent to the following ‘Judgment Day’ phrase:
“… 34Then shall the King say unto them on his right hand, Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world: 35For I was an hungred, and ye gave me meat: I was thirsty, and ye gave me drink: I was a stranger, and ye took me in: 36Naked, and ye clothed me: I was sick, and ye visited me: I was in prison, and ye came unto me. 37Then shall the righteous answer him, saying, Lord, when saw we thee an hungred, and fed thee? or thirsty, and gave thee drink? 38When saw we thee a stranger, and took thee in? or naked, and clothed thee? 39Or when saw we thee sick, or in prison, and came unto thee? 40And the King shall answer and say unto them, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 25:34 – 40, KJV)
Please note that these ‘Surprised Sheep’ which are ‘only Saved of Judgment Day’ as Described in Verses above did such “Charity Doctrine” Acts toward “… these My Brethren …” (referring to Christians who are Raised 1000 years earlier, Revelation 20:4 – 6 & Matthew 12:50 & the Saved Faithful Jews/Servants of the Millennial Reign, who were Judged first before this Gathering of Gentiles, Matthew 25:14 – 30).
The “Charity Doctrine/Works” do not Save them but it merits them the reward to “…inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world …” at some place there where only Christians have the Highest Positions of being “Kings & Priests” (Revelation 5:10, Revelation 1:6). Salvation is free by His Grace where these ones may escape the Lake of Fire Judgment by His Mercy (Romans 9:15 – 16).
The phrase “…40“He who receives you receives Me, …” (Matthew 10:40) might be the same meaning as “… 40And the King shall answer and say unto them, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren [Christians before the Millennial Reign & Millennial Reign mortal Jews], ye have done it unto me. …” (Matthew 25:40). Can you see this Possibility?
Every non-Christian usually puts his family first and thus likes most those who can benefit his family or do good deeds toward his family members. So similarly Christ may give this Mercy to them likewise for treating “His Family” (believers, Christians according to Matthew 12:50) with such “Charity Doctrine Acts” likewise & vice versa. This should not be something difficult or unfair on the part of God for most people who believe in ‘family first’ because God Does likewise too ‘as they too do in their lives on earth’.
Also the phrase “… 40For he who is not against us is on our side …” (Mark 9:40) where Christ Generalizes beyond the ‘Believing in Christ miracle worker from another denomination analogy’ (Mark 9:39) to include even those “… 41For whoever gives you a cup of water to drink in My name, because you belong to Christ, assuredly, I say to you, he will by no means lose his reward. …” (Mark 9:41) points to this possibility too as good non-Christians who are kind to Christians being ‘not against them’ may ‘actually be on their side’ & hence inherit this Mercy & Reward shown to them as these Verses could mean that directly when taken together.
In fact, in the Bible, the only thing God has ever accepted from a non-Christian even sending an angel to meet his is because he did the “Charity Doctrine toward Christians “ as the famous example of Cornelius shows below:
“… 1There was a certain man in Caesarea called Cornelius, a centurion of what was called the Italian [a]Regiment, 2a devout man and one who feared God with all his household, who GAVE ALMS GENEROUSLY to the people, and prayed to God always. 3About [c]the ninth hour of the day he saw clearly in a vision an angel of God coming in and saying to him, “Cornelius!” 4And when he observed him, he was afraid, and said, “What is it, lord?” So he said to him, “Your prayers and YOUR ALMS [Charity] have come up for a memorial before God. 5Now send men to Joppa, and send for Simon whose surname is Peter. 6He is lodging with Simon, a tanner, whose house is by the sea. He[d] will tell you what you must do.” 7And when the angel who spoke to him had departed, Cornelius called two of his household servants and a devout soldier from among those who waited on him continually. 8So when he had explained all these things to them, he sent them to Joppa. 30So Cornelius said, “Four days ago I was fasting until this hour; and at the ninth hour I prayed in my house, and behold, a man stood before me in bright clothing, 31and said, ‘Cornelius, your prayer has been heard, and YOUR ALMS [Charitable Giving] are remembered in the sight of God. …” (Acts 10:1 – 8, 30 – 31, NKJV)
I know that Cornelius eventually became a Christian but please notice that Cornelius was not a Jew nor a Christian but yet his “ALMS” (Charity giving of money to those who need it) was accepted before God. Cornelius could not have had a perfect prayer to God because he was “not” a Jew “nor” a Christian but yet it was accepted somewhat due to his almsgiving lifestyle of generosity.
Perhaps that’s why Christ Mysteriously Echoed the Answer to the Question “…what SHALL I DO to INHERIT ETERNAL LIFE? …” (Luke 10:25, KJV) as the “Charity Doctrine” as described in the Parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:26 – 27). Please take note that “Samaritans” do “not” have a Correct Concept of God according to Christ Himself in Verse below:
“… 7A woman of Samaria came to draw water. Jesus said to her, “Give Me a drink.” 8For His disciples had gone away into the city to buy food. 9Then the woman of Samaria said to Him, “How is it that You, being a Jew, ask a drink from me, a Samaritan woman?” For Jews have no dealings with Samaritans. … 19The woman said to Him, “Sir, I perceive that You are a prophet. 20Our fathers worshiped on this mountain, and you Jews say that in Jerusalem is the place where one ought to worship.” 21Jesus said to her, “Woman, believe Me, the hour is coming when you will neither on this mountain, nor in Jerusalem, worship the Father. 22You worship what you do not know; we know what we worship, for salvation is of the Jews. 23But the HOUR IS COMING, and NOW IS, when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth; for the Father is seeking such to worship Him. 24God is Spirit, and those who worship Him must worship in spirit and truth.” 25The woman said to Him, “I know that Messiah is coming” (who is called Christ). “When He comes, He will tell us all things.” 26JESUS said to her, “I who speak to you am He.” …” (John 4:7 – 8, 19 – 24, KJV)
The phrase “…22You worship what you do not know; we know what we worship …” (John 4:22) means that a “Samaritan” represents a “non-Christian” Symbolically. So this non-Christian (or Samaritan) who does not know the True God who did the “Charity Doctrine” as per the “Parable of the Good Samaritan” might attain to his reward to “inherit the Eternal Life” by Christ’s Mercy (Luke 10:25 – 27) is we combine these Verses to understand it which agrees with the Cornelius example prior to him becoming a Christian too.
“… 25Verily, verily, I say unto you, The HOUR IS COMING, and NOW IS, WHEN THE DEAD SHALL HEAR the voice of the Son of God: and they that hear shall live. 26For as the Father hath life in himself; so hath he given to the Son to have life in himself; 27And hath given him authority to execute judgment also, because he is the Son of man. 28Marvel not at this: for the hour is coming, in the which all that are in the graves shall hear his voice, 29And shall come forth; they that have DONE GOOD, unto the RESURRECTION of LIFE; and they that have done evil, unto the resurrection of damnation. …” (John 5:25 – 29, KJV)
The set of Verses above (John 5:25 – 29) has the same phrase “…The HOUR IS COMING, and NOW IS, WHEN THE DEAD SHALL HEAR the voice of the Son of God: and they that hear shall live. …” (John 5:25) referring to the “Second Resurrection Timeline” (Revelation 20:5, Revelation 20:11 – 15) with “…23But the HOUR IS COMING, and NOW IS, when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth; …” (John 4:23) implying the possibility that ‘some of these Samaritans’ (non-Christian good work doers) could likewise only Worship Him in Spirit and Truth at that future “hour is coming” which occurs at their “Resurrection” when they (‘the dead’ shall hear the Voice of the Son of God).
The Christians are the ones “now is” who Worship the Father in Truth and who are “raised from the dead spiritually” now itself.
Please take note that John 5:29 cannot refer to the Christian Resurrection because the “wicked ones” do not rise in the “First Resurrection” simultaneously with Christians as per Revelation 20:4 – 6 especially the phrase “… 5But the rest of the dead did not live again [i.e. did not Resurrect Bodily] until the thousand years were finished …” (Revelation 20:5, NKJV).
So John 5:28 – 29 must describe the “Second Resurrection” which is 1000 years after the “First Resurrection” (Revelation 20:4 – 6).
Please compare:
i) The First Resurrection & Rapture includes “All Christians”
“…16For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and THE DEAD IN CHRIST RISE FIRST: 17THEN WE WHICH ARE ALIVE and REMAIN shall be CAUGHT UP TOGETHER WITH THEM in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord. …”(1 Thessalonians 4:16 – 17, NKJV)
“… 4And I saw thrones, and they sat on them, and judgment was committed to them. Then I saw the souls of those who had been beheaded for their witness to Jesus and for the word of God, who had not worshiped the beast or his image, and had not received his mark on their foreheads or on their hands. And they lived and reigned with Christ for [a]a thousand years. 5But the REST OF THE DEAD did not live again until the thousand years were finished. Blessed and holy is he who has part in the FIRST RESURRECTION. OVER SUCH THE SECOND DEATH has NO POWER, but they shall be priests of God and of Christ, and shall reign with Him a THOUSAND YEARS. ….” (Revelation 20:4 – 7, NKJV)
ii) Second Resurrection
“… 7Now when the thousand years have expired, … 11Then I saw a great white throne and Him who sat on it, from whose face the earth and the heaven fled away. And there was found no place for them. 12And I saw the dead, small and great, standing before [c]God, and books were opened. And another book was opened, which is the Book of Life. And THE DEAD WERE JUDGED ACCORDING TO THEIR WORKS, by the things which were written in the books. … 15And ANYONE NOT FOUND WRITTEN in the BOOK OF LIFE was CAST INTO THE LAKE OF FIRE. …” (Revelation 20:7, 11 – 12, 15, NKJV)
“… 25Verily, verily, I say unto you, The HOUR IS COMING, and NOW IS, WHEN THE DEAD SHALL HEAR the voice of the Son of God: and they that hear shall live. 26For as the Father hath life in himself; so hath he given to the Son to have life in himself; 27And hath given him authority to execute judgment also, because he is the Son of man. 28Marvel not at this: for THE HOUR IS COMING, in the which all that are in the graves shall hear his voice, 29And shall come forth; they that have DONE GOOD, unto the RESURRECTION of LIFE; and they that have done evil, unto the resurrection of damnation. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (John 5:25 – 29, KJV)
Please notice carefully that Christ Clearly Reveals that there are Some who are Saved only during the “Second Resurrection” (at the future ‘HOUR [that] IS COMING’) is His Words “… for THE HOUR IS COMING, in the which all that are in the graves shall hear his voice, 29And shall come forth; they that have DONE GOOD, unto the RESURRECTION of LIFE; and they that have done evil, unto the resurrection of damnation. …” (John 5:28 -29, KJV). Christ Chooses to Give ETERNAL LIFE to those who did GOOD WORKS which in Matthew 25:31 – 46 refers to the CHARITY DOCTRINE WORKS of feeding the hungry, thirsty, clothing the naked, sharing our shelter/home etc. Since all Christians are already Saved in the “First Resurrection”, then this must be some non-Christian good, right?
As I said, I am “not” saying that this must be the interpretation but as a possibility (because it’s so difficult to see which is it) and I am ready to accept that I’m wrong if that be the case when God Reveals on Judgment Day. In short, I am ready to accept it either way letting God Decide it where we preach both these possibilities (of eternal Hell vs Christ Centered Universalism Hope).
P/S: Did anyone from First Christianity understand it this Way?
Yes, the very person who converted St. Augustine of Hippo understood 1 Corinthians 3:13 – 15 and Luke 12:57 – 59 in this manner:
“… I came to set the earth on fire, and what is my will, if not that finally it lights up? [Luke 12:49] I must be baptized with a baptism, and what is my torment as long as it is not accomplished! ” Higher up, He has kept us vigilant, waiting at all times for the coming of the Lord Savior, lest by slackening, by negligence, by differing from day to day his work, such, preceded by the day of the future judgment or by his own death, lose the reward of his management. It was addressed to all, in the form of a general precept; but the theme of the following comparison seems to be proposed to the bishops, that is to say, to the bishops, to let them know that they will have to undergo a severe punishment later, if, occupied with the pleasures of the century, they neglected to govern the house of the Lord and the people entrusted to them. But as the profit is thin, and the merit is low, when it is the fear of the punishment which prevents from going astray, since the charity and the love have a superior dignity, the Lord sharpens our zeal to deserve its favor and we are inflamed with the desire to acquire God, saying, “I have come to set fire to the earth,” not certainly the fire that consumes the goods, but the one that produces the good will, which makes the vases of and from the house of the Lord, consuming the hay and the straw (I Cor. iii. 12ff., 1 Corinthians 3:11 – 15), devouring all the gangue of the age, amassed by worldly pleasure, the work of the flesh that is to perish;… They have thus taught with evidentness what is the action of this fire, which enlightens the intimate of the heart. For this reason perhaps the Lord will come into the fire (see Is., LXVI, 15; 16): to consume all the vices at the moment of the resurrection, to fill by his presence the desires of each one, and to project the light on merits and mysteries…. ” (Commentary on Verses Luke 12:49 – 50) …”.
“… So let us take care, while we are in the course of this life, to free ourselves from our evil activity as a bad opponent, lest going with the adversary to the magistrate, he condemns our misguidance on the way. So he says again, according to Matthew: “Agree with your adversary while you are with him on the way. The Greek said:? ? ? ? ? that is to say, benevolent: for if we free ourselves from the devil in this life, he will not be condemned because of us, and we will be removed from his bonds. … Who is the magistrate, except the One in whom all power resides and who claims for Him the supreme dignity of the complete and finished time, to whom the Holy Prophet hastens, leaning on the conscience of his good deeds and without fear of the adversary: “My soul,” he says, “is thirsty for the living God; when will I come before the face of God “(Ps.41,3)? It is indeed this magistrate who will return the culprit to the judge, to Him, I say, to whom He has put power over the living and the dead. And He gave it by nature, not by grace: He did not receive it as not having it, but drew it from the substance of the Father when He was begotten. Here is the magistrate and the judge that shows you the one who showed the accuser; and it shows when He will be revealed: “In the day, is it said, where God will judge the secrets of men, according to my gospel, through our Lord Jesus Christ” (Rom., II, 16). This judge, therefore, is Jesus Christ, through whom are repeated secret faults and inflicted the punishment of evil deeds. You want to know that Christ is this judge who delivers to the executor and throws in prison? question him; or rather read what he says in the Gospel: “Take it and cast it into darkness outside” (Matt. xxxiii. 13). … He also showed his executioners in another passage, where He says, “It will be the same at the end of time: the angels will come to separate the wicked from the righteous, and throw them into the blazing furnace. weeping and gnashing of teeth “(Matt, XIII, 49ffq). It remains to be seen now what the figure of the obole means. And it seems that the name of this familiar object expresses the mystery of a spiritual sense. Indeed, as one pays his debt by returning the money, and as the title to the interest is extinguished only when the whole amount of the capital is paid until the last denier, whatever the mode of payment, of it is by the compensation of charity and other works, or by some satisfaction, that the penalty of sin is extinguished. Nor is it without reason that he did not mention in this place, as elsewhere, two pieces of copper (Lc, XXI, 2), an ace (Matt., X, 29), nor a denier (Ib., XX, 2), but an obole; for the transfer of an obole29 is a kind of exchange, where one puts one thing in sign of the acquittal of another. Likewise here: either the wrong is redeemed at the price of charity, or the punishment diminished according to the appreciation of the wrong. Now it is the custom, as we remember, to give a bath to the baths: by presenting it, everyone obtains the faculty of bathing there; so, here, to be purified, because the sin of each is purified by the kind of transaction described above. On the other hand, the guilty person is tortured and tortured as long as he has not served the sentence of the error committed. …” (Commentary on Verses Luke 12:57 – 59) …” – Blessed Archbishop St. Ambrose of Milan, First Great Latin Doctor of the Church, Converter, Baptizer and Teacher of St. Augustine of Hippo (c. 340 AD – c. 397 AD, Commentary on Luke XII)
Source:
https://sites.google.com/site/aquinasstudybible/home/luke-commentary/ambrose-on-luke-12
Peace to you
Possibility of being Saved after the Lake of Fire Judgment
As I said earlier, I do “not” teach this as Doctrine but as a possibility because these Verses can be interpreted oppositely too consistently. The reason why I have to consider this possibility is to honest with this possibility as well in case this turns out to be true. The first part was discussed in link below:
Please consider the second part below:
1) This is the Fire of Hell / Gehenna / Lake of Fire on Judgment Day
“… each one’s work will become clear; for THE DAY WILL DECLARE IT, because it WILL BE REVEALED BY FIRE; and THE FIRE WILL TEST EACH ONE’S WORK, of what sort it is. …” (1 Corinthians 3:13, NKJV)
The “Day” refers to “Judgment Day” according to Verses below so 1 Corinthians 3:13 – 15 refers to the same timeline and Lake of Fire of Revelation 20:11 – 15.
“… 7But the heavens and the earth which are now preserved by the same word, are RESERVED FOR FIRE until the DAY OF JUDGMENT and [b]perdition of UNGODLY MEN. … 10But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night, in which the heavens will pass away with a great noise, and the elements will melt with fervent heat; both the earth and THE WORKS THAT ARE IN IT WILL BE [D]BURNED UP. 11Therefore, since all these things will be dissolved, what manner of persons ought you to be in holy conduct and godliness, 12looking for and hastening the coming of the day of God, because of which the heavens will be dissolved, being on fire, and the elements will melt with fervent heat? …” (2 Peter 3:7, 10 – 12, NKJV)
The phrase “… THE FIRE WILL TEST EACH ONE’S WORK, …” (1 Corinthians 3:13) includes also the “works” is “sin” by “ungodly” men on that Same Day as these phrases imply “… by the same word, are RESERVED FOR FIRE until the DAY OF JUDGMENT and [b]perdition of UNGODLY MEN. … both the earth and THE WORKS THAT ARE IN IT WILL BE [D]BURNED UP. …” (2 Peter 3:7, 10).
2) The difference is “Saved Christians” cannot be harmed by the Second Death (Lake of Fire, Revelation 20:6, Revelation 2:11) in any way but “everyone” (saved or unsaved) will be tested with this “Gehenna” Fire too:
“… 47And if your eye causes you to sin, pluck it out. It is better for you to enter the kingdom of God with one eye, rather than having two eyes, to be CAST INTO [O]HELL FIRE— 48where ‘Their worm does not die And the fire is not quenched.’ 49“For EVERYONE WILL BE SEASONED WITH FIRE, and[p] every sacrifice will be seasoned with salt. …” (Mark 9:47 – 49, NKJV)
3) So It’s Possible that Apostle Paul is highlighting this Salvation by “Lake of Fire” to a “fallen Christian” who is “saved by fire” as only the Works of Sin are completely burned up (1 Corinthians 3:15).
“… 14If anyone’s work which he has built on it endures, he will receive a reward. 15If anyone’s work is burned, he will suffer loss; but HE HIMSELF WILL BE SAVED, YET SO AS THROUGH FIRE. …” (1 Corinthians 3:14 – 15, NKJV)
i) Saved Christian gets Rewards
“… 14If anyone’s work which he has built on it endures, he will receive a reward. …” (1 Corinthians 3:14, NKJV)
ii) Fallen Christian gets punished, loses reward (“suffers loss”) but is Saved only after this Lake of Fire Judgment (“saved, yet so as through fire”)
“… 15If anyone’s work is burned, he will suffer loss; but HE HIMSELF WILL BE SAVED, YET SO AS THROUGH FIRE. …” (1 Corinthians 3:15, NKJV)
4) Context for the Definition of “Saved Christian” Vs “Fallen Christians” is given by Christ Himself in Verses below in light of these same ‘Judgment Day’ Context Parabolically:
“… 43Blessed is that servant whom his master will find so doing when he comes. 44Truly, I say to you that he will make him ruler over all that he has. 45But if that servant says in his heart, ‘My master is delaying his coming,’ and begins to beat the male and female servants, and to eat and drink and be drunk, 46the master of that servant will come on a day when he is not looking for him, and at an hour when he is not aware, and WILL CUT HIM [fallen Christian] IN TWO AND APPOINT HIM HIS PORTION WITH THE UNBELIEVERS [non-Christians]. 47And THAT SERVANT WHO KNEW HIS MASTER’S WILL [fallen Christian], and did not prepare himself or do according to his will, shall be BEATEN WITH MANY STRIPES. 48But HE WHO DID NOT KNOW [non-Christians?], yet COMMITTED THINGS DESERVING OF STRIPES, shall be BEATEN WITH FEW. For everyone to whom much is given, from him much will be required; and to whom much has been committed, of him they will ask the more …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 12:43 – 48, NKJV)
Definitions from the above:
i) Saved Christian
“… 43Blessed is that servant whom his master will find so doing when he comes. 44Truly, I say to you that he will make him ruler over all that he has. …” (Luke 12:43 – 44, NKJV)
ii) Fallen Christian (because Christ refers to “… If that servant …” pointing to the ‘Savef Christian’ if he backslides)
“… 45But if that servant says in his heart, ‘My master is delaying his coming,’ and begins to beat the male and female servants, and to eat and drink and be drunk, 46the master of that servant will come on a day when he is not looking for him, and at an hour when he is not aware, and WILL CUT HIM [fallen Christian] IN TWO AND APPOINT HIM HIS PORTION WITH THE UNBELIEVERS [non-Christians] …” (Luke 12:45 – 46, NKJV)
iii) Unbelievers (non-Christians)
Yes, “unbelievers” are distinctly mentioned as different from this “Wicked Servant” (fallen Christian)
“… and WILL CUT HIM [fallen Christian] IN TWO AND APPOINT HIM HIS PORTION WITH THE UNBELIEVERS [non-Christians] …” (Luke 12:46, NKJV)
5) Fallen Christian gets the most serious Judgment in the Lake of Fire even worse than unbelievers
“… 26For IF WE SIN WILLFULLY AFTER WE HAVE RECEIVED THE KNOWLEDGE OF THE TRUTH, there no longer remains a sacrifice for sins, 27but a CERTAIN FEARFUL EXPECTATION OF JUDGMENT, and FIERY INDIGNATION which will devour the adversaries. 28Anyone who has rejected Moses’ law dies without mercy on the testimony of two or three witnesses. 29Of how much worse punishment, do you suppose, will he be thought worthy who has trampled the Son of God underfoot, counted the blood of the covenant by WHICH HE WAS SANCTIFIED a common thing, and insulted the Spirit of grace? 30For we know Him who said, “Vengeance is Mine, I will repay,” [g]says the Lord. And again, “THE LORD WILL JUDGE HIS PEOPLE.” 31It is a FEARFUL THING to fall into the hands of the living God. …” (Hebrews 10:26 – 31, NKJV)
Fallen Christian is referred to in Verses above as these phrases prove: “… IF WE SIN WILLFULLY AFTER WE HAVE RECEIVED THE KNOWLEDGE OF THE TRUTH … 27but a CERTAIN FEARFUL EXPECTATION OF JUDGMENT, and FIERY INDIGNATION which will devour the adversaries. … counted the blood of the covenant by WHICH HE WAS SANCTIFIED … THE LORD WILL JUDGE HIS PEOPLE …”.
Please notice that a “fallen Christian” was “Sanctified by the Blood of the Covenant” first but yet fell away into Judgment by his works as this phrase is so clear in the above (so he was a Christian and is a Believer but his works are sinful):
“… 29Of how much worse punishment, do you suppose, will he be thought worthy who has trampled the Son of God underfoot, counted the blood of the covenant by WHICH HE WAS SANCTIFIED a common thing, and insulted the Spirit of grace? …” (Hebrews 10:29, NKJV)
6) If 1 Corinthians 3:13 – 15 refers only to the believer’s Judgment, then 1 Corinthians 3:15’s “Saved by Fire” must refer to the “fallen Christian” case (Luke 12:46, Hebrews 10:29)
“… 14If anyone’s work which he has built on it endures, he will receive a reward [Saved Christian]. 15If anyone’s work is burned, he will suffer loss; but he himself will be saved, yet so as through fire [Fallen Christian].” 16Do you not know that you are the temple of God and that the Spirit of God dwells in you? 17If anyone [b]defiles the temple of God, GOD WILL DESTROY HIM [Fallen Christian, Hebrews 10:29, Luke 12:46, 1 Corinthians 3:15]. For the temple of God is holy, which temple you are …” ” (1 Corinthians 3:14 – 17, NKJV)
In other words, within 1 Corinthians 3:13 – 17 itself, Verse 17 points to “God Will Destroy him” toward a person who is a “lawless / sinful Christian” which we saw fits the Definitions of Christ (in Luke 12:46) and Hebrews 10:29. This must be the person “saved, as through fire” referred to in 1 Corinthians 3:15 (as it’s referred to/warned in consecutive verses).
Please also notice the fact that 1 Corinthians 3:15 clearly emphasizes Salvation after the Lake of Fire points to a context of Salvation after Judgment till the last penny which may explain or agree with Christ’s Own Words below where He Speaks of “till the last penny” whilst discussing the Context of “Judgment” and “Gehenna” (Lake of Fire):
“… 22But I say to you that whoever is angry with his brother without a cause shall be in DANGER OF THE JUDGMENT. And whoever says to his brother, ‘Raca!’ shall be in danger of the council. But whoever says, ‘You fool!’ shall be in DANGER OF HELL [GEHENNA] FIRE. 23Therefore if you bring your gift to the altar, and there remember that your brother has something against you, 24leave your gift there before the altar, and go your way. First be reconciled to your brother, and then come and offer your gift. 25Agree with your adversary quickly, while you are on the way with him, lest your adversary deliver you to the JUDGE, the JUDGE hand you over to the officer, and you be THROWN INTO PRISON. 26Assuredly, I say to you, YOU WILL BY NO MEANS GET OUT OF THERE TILL YOU HAVE PAID THE LAST PENNY. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 5:22 – 26, NKJV)
Or
“… “And why do you not even judge by yourselves what is right? For while you are going with your opponent to appear before the magistrate, on your way there make an effort to settle with him, so that he may not drag you BEFORE the JUDGE, and the JUDGE turn you over to the officer, and the officer THROW YOU INTO PRISON. “I say to you, YOU WILL NOT GET OUT OF THERE UNTIL YOU HAVE PAID THE VERY LAST CENT. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 12:57 – 59, NASB)
Or the “Fallen Christian” is described by Christ below as not someone who loses rewards only but as a “Wicked Servant” (please compare with Luke 12:46 too) who undergoes this “till the last penny Sentence on Judgment Day” as Parabolically described in Verses below:
“… 32Then his master, after he had called him, said to him, ‘You WICKED SERVANT! I forgave you all that debt because you begged me. 33Should you not also have had compassion on your fellow servant, just as I had pity on you?’ 34And his master was angry, and DELIVERED HIM TO THE TORTURERS UNTIL HE SHOULD PAY ALL THAT WAS DUE TO HIM. 35“So MY HEAVENLY FATHER ALSO WILL DO TO YOU IF EACH OF YOU, from his heart, does NOT FORGIVE his brother [g]his trespasses.” …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 18:32 – 35, NKJV)
Note: The Context for Judgment Sentence above is “… if each of you, from his heart, does not forgive his brother [g]his trespasses.” …” which means that this person never repented on such a sin on earth and that’s why he is judged like that on Judgment Day. Can you see the Spirit World and future time context for these Verses?
The “settle on the way” is often understood as ‘repent while in this life itself before appearing before the Judge on Judgment Day’ which also sets the Spirit World context in the Parables above.
The Verses above clearly describe the ‘Final Judgment’ as the Word “Judge” is used and the “Prison” is the same metaphor for Gehenna/Lake of Fire because it’s referred likewise in Verses below (as the Final Judgment cannot happen without the Resurrection first):
“… 21And it shall come to pass IN THAT DAY, that the LORD shall punish the host of the high ones that are on high, and the kings of the earth upon the earth. 22And they shall be gathered together, AS PRISONERS ARE GATHERED IN THE PIT, and shall be SHUT UP IN THE PRISON, and AFTER MANY DAYS shall they be VISITED. …” (Isaiah 24:21 – 22, KJV)
Please compare with the word “Prison till the last penny” in Luke 12:57 – 59, Matthew 5:22 – 26 and Matthew 18:32 – 35 prior with Isaiah 24:21 – 22 above in the Context of “Judgment Day” Timeline and “Lake of Fire” Judgment Context as these Verses seem to point when collectively understood.
Please notice also that this “shut up in Prison” (Isaiah 24:22) happens in the future (highlighted phrase: “… IN THAT DAY…” in Isaiah 24:21 above, Judgment Day is when the fallen angels are also judged as per Matthew 25:31 – 46) and “Visited” here in the Original Language means to “Inspect” which possibly can refer to ‘checking to see if repentance or change has occurred or if the till the last penny sentence is over’.
7) Judgment Seat of Christ
We have already stated that the 1 Corinthians 3:15 – 17 “saved by Fire” Judgment refers to a future “Judgment Day” (1 Corinthians 3:13) which is clearly described in 2 Peter 3:7 – 10 putting it as the timeline referred to. So Saved Christians are Judged for rewards on Judgment Day (1 Corinthians 3:14) while “Fallen Christians” possibly are judged in the Lake of Fire first before being “saved” (1 Corinthians 3:15).
This ‘same Judgment Seat of Christ’ is Described in Verses below which is called the “terror of the Lord” too which means that if it’s all about losing rewards only, then it’s nothing terrifying to a ‘fallen Christian’, Verses:
“… 10For WE MUST ALL APPEAR BEFORE THE JUDGMENT SEAT OF CHRIST, that each one may RECEIVE THE THINGS DONE IN THE BODY, according to what he has done, WHETHER GOOD OR BAD. 11KNOWING, therefore, the TERROR OF THE LORD, WE PERSUADE MEN; but we are well known to God, and I also trust are well known in your consciences. …” (2 Corinthians 5:10 – 11, NKJV)
Please notice carefully that Apostle St. Paul clearly describes what he meant by the works of “… gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, straw, 13each one’s work will become clear; FOR THE DAY WILL DECLARE IT, because IT WILL BE REVEALED BY FIRE …” (1 Corinthians 3:12 – 13, NKJV) to refer to “… according to what he has done, WHETHER GOOD OR BAD. 11KNOWING, therefore, the TERROR OF THE LORD, WE PERSUADE MEN …” (2 Corinthians 5:10 – 11) above.
In other words, it’s possible by combining Apostle St. Paul’s own words, he meant this:
i) works of “… gold, silver, precious stones, …” = “… “… according to what he has done, WHETHER GOOD …”
ii) works of “… wood, hay, straw, …” = “… according to what he has done, WHETHER … BAD …”. This must be the “burned up work” which 1 Corinthians 3:15 speaks of
“… 15If anyone’s WORK IS BURNED, he will SUFFER LOSS; but HE HIMSELF WILL BE SAVED, YET SO AS THROUGH FIRE. …” (1 Corinthians 3:15, NKJV).
iii) So for the “bad” works (of sin) for the “fallen Christian” case, Apostle St. Paul clearly warns of the “… 11KNOWING, therefore, the TERROR OF THE LORD, WE PERSUADE MEN …” (2 Corinthians 5:11) which must refer to the Gehenna/Lake of Fire Judgment which in the other passage thus implies a Salvation after that toward this Fallen Christian as these phrases imply “… 15If anyone’s work is burned, he will suffer loss; but HE HIMSELF WILL BE SAVED, YET SO AS THROUGH FIRE. …” (1 Corinthians 3:15, NKJV).
8) Worse punishment for the “Fallen Christian” (or “Wicked Servant”, Matthew 18:32, Luke 12:46) with “many stripes” (for knowing God’s Will and sinning) than the “unbelievers” (for not knowing God’s Will and sinning), Verses:
“… 46the master of that servant will come on a day when he is not looking for him, and at an hour when he is not aware, and will cut him in two and APPOINT HIM HIS PORTION WITH THE UNBELIEVERS. 47And THAT SERVANT who knew his master’s will, and did not prepare himself or do according to his will, shall be BEATEN WITH MANY STRIPES. 48But he WHO DID NOT KNOW, yet committed things deserving of stripes, shall be BEATEN WITH FEW. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 12:46 – 48, NKJV)
Christ’s Words in Luke 12:46 – 48 describe a worse punishment (i.e. “beaten with many stripes”, not unending stripes) to that “Fallen Christian” who might be the one referred to as “Saved, as through the (Lake of) Fire” first in 1 Corinthians 3:15. Hence if the Fallen Christian can be Saved by fire after this “many stripes beating” (metaphorically describes the Lake of Fire punishment), then the “unbelievers” or ‘other fallen Christians’ who “did not know His Will” much who get “beaten with fewer stripes for their sins” can be Saved likewise too, right? It’s “Possible” but let God Alone Decide.
9) Is 1 Corinthians 3:13 – 15 only Speaking of loss of Reward?
The “loss of Reward” phrase can refer even to a “Angel Worshipping Christian” (who is doing “idolatry”, breaking a very important 10 Commandment & hence may not inherit the Kingdom of God as per 1 Corinthians 6:9 – 11 warning) in Colossians 2:18 (next).
Yes a “loss of Reward” is clearly implied and hence Colossians 2:18’s Fallen Christian could be saved after the Lake of Fire Judgment since both Verses are connected by the equivalent phrase of “suffer loss” = “loss of Reward being cheated of it”, please compare:
“… Let NO ONE CHEAT YOU of YOUR REWARD, taking delight in false humility and WORSHIP OF ANGELS, intruding into those things which he has not seen, vainly puffed up by his fleshly mind, …” (Colossians 2:18, NKJV)
“… 14If anyone’s work which he has built on it endures, he will receive a reward. 15If anyone’s WORK IS BURNED, HE WILL SUFFER LOSS; but HE HIMSELF WILL BE SAVED, YET SO AS THROUGH FIRE. …” (1 Corinthians 3:14 – 15, NKJV)
I still believe that God can Save any Christian who errs on these aspects but you risk “losing your greater reward” if you did it as per the Bible Verse above (Matthew 5:19).
10) Salvation though never had Faith in Christ case
i) Salvation is Granted to some who never heard the Gospel but did “Good Works/Lived holy” according to their conscience
“… 14for when Gentiles, who do not have the law, by nature do the things in the law, these, although not having the law, are a law to themselves, 15who show the work of the law written in their hearts, their conscience also bearing witness, and between themselves their thoughts accusing or else excusing them) 16in the day when God will judge the secrets of men by Jesus Christ, according to my gospel. …” (Romans 2:14 – 16, NKJV)
This means that the “Justification of Faith” which also applies to them must by be the “Faith of Jesus Christ” (Romans 3:22-KJV) where they only get this chance on Judgment Day or somewhere in the Spirit World. So the believing after seeing possibility could apply here as this Verse possibly points:
“… And this is the will of Him who sent Me, that everyone who SEES THE SON AND BELIEVES IN HIM MAY HAVE EVERLASTING LIFE; and I will raise him up at the last day.” …” (John 6:40, NKJV)
Could this “believing after seeing” and Salvation after that for some be the same one detailed out in the Book of 1Enoch Prophecy below? (It’s possible):
“… 1 And in those days a change shall take place for the holy and elect, And the light of days shall abide upon them, And glory and honour shall turn to the holy, 2 ON THE DAY OF AFFLICTION on which evil shall have been treasured up against the sinners.And the righteous shall be victorious in the name of the Lord of Spirits: And HE WILL CAUSE THE OTHERS TO WITNESS (this) THAT THEY MAY REPENT And FORGO THE WORKS OF THEIR HANDS. 3 They shall have NO HONOUR through the name of the Lord of Spirits, YET THROUGH HIS NAME SHALL THEY BE SAVED [Joel 2:32, Romans 10:13, Matthew 12:21], And THE LORD OF SPIRITS WILL HAVE COMPASSION ON THEM, For His compassion is great. 4 And He is righteous also in His judgement, And in the presence of His glory unrighteousness also shall not maintain itself: At HIS JUDGEMENT THE UNREPENTANT SHALL PERISH before Him. 5 And FROM HENCEFORTH I will have NO MERCY on them, saith the Lord of Spirits. …” (Book of Enoch, Chapter 50)
Translation Source:
http://wesley.nnu.edu/index.php?id=2126
Please notice Carefully that this “Salvation with no honour” (hence not a Christian Salvation but possibly unbelievers or fallen Christians) happening on the “Day of Affliction” (Judgment Day) as mentioned in Quote above may refer to the “Saved by fire” case (1 Corinthians 3:13 – 15) after they have “their part” in the Lake of Fire first (Revelation 20:11 – 15).
ii) Possible Salvation for non-Christian good who did good toward Christians
Christ Defined his brothers/sisters (Family) as those who “did the Will of the Father” who are Saved in the First Resurrection & Participate in the 1000 years Millennial Reign of Christ as His Bride (Revelation 20:4 – 6):
“… For whoever does the will of My Father in heaven is My brother and sister and mother. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 12:50, NKJV)
Judgment Day Verses below clearly Speak of the “righteous” being Saved due to Practicing the “Charity Doctrine” of giving “food, water, shelter, and visiting the least of Christ’s Brethren (i.e. Christians) in Prison too”.
“… 31“When the Son of Man comes in His glory, and all the [c]holy angels with Him, then He will sit on the throne of His glory. 32All the nations will be gathered before Him, and He will separate them one from another, as a shepherd divides his sheep from the goats. 33And He will set the sheep on His right hand, but the goats on the left. 34Then the King will say to those on His right hand, ‘Come, you blessed of My Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world: 35for I was hungry and you gave Me food; I was thirsty and you gave Me drink; I was a stranger and you took Me in; 36I was naked and you clothed Me; I was sick and you visited Me; I was in prison and you came to Me.’ 37“Then the righteous will answer Him, saying, ‘Lord, when did we see You hungry and feed You, or thirsty and give You drink? 38When did we see You a stranger and take You in, or naked and clothe You? 39Or when did we see You sick, or in prison, and come to You?’ 40And the King will answer and say to them, ‘Assuredly, I say to you, inasmuch as you did it to one of the least of these My brethren, you did it to Me.’ 41“Then He will also say to those on the left hand, ‘Depart from Me, you cursed, into the everlasting fire prepared for the devil and his angels: 42for I was hungry and you gave Me no food; I was thirsty and you gave Me no drink; 43I was a stranger and you did not take Me in, naked and you did not clothe Me, sick and in prison and you did not visit Me.’ 44“Then they also will answer [d]Him, saying, ‘Lord, when did we see You hungry or thirsty or a stranger or naked or sick or in prison, and did not minister to You?’ 45Then He will answer them, saying, ‘Assuredly, I say to you, inasmuch as you did not do it to one of the least of these, you did not do it to Me.’ 46And these will go away into everlasting punishment, but the righteous into eternal life.” …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 25:31 – 46, NKJV)
So it’s possible that these ‘saved righteous ones’ on Judgment Day (Matthew 25:31 – 46 refers to Revelation 20:11 – 15) Speaks not of Christians who are already Saved 1000 years earlier (Revelation 20:4 – 6). These just Saved ones (in Matthew 25:31 – 46 above) are most likely from the “rest of the dead” (Revelation 20:5 which refers to the non-Christian dead) where they’re made Righteous and shown Mercy according to whether they showed any “Mercy toward the least of Christ’s Brethren” (Matthew 25:40, Matthew 12:50) or not (Matthew 25:45).
The fact that these righteous are “shocked that they are just saved On Judgment Day only” and don’t know why (Matthew 25:37 – 39) points them to be most likely non-Christians to whom Christ clearly replies that because they did GOOD DEEDS and WERE KIND TO CHRISTIANS (i.e. the least of His brethren, Matthew 12:50, Matthew 25:34 – 36, 40), they get Salvation by Grace (Matthew 25:34). Christians who are already Saved and Resurrected 1000 years earlier (Revelation 20:4 – 6) won’t be that surprised I think on Judgment Day and Matthew 25:34 seem to point to these “new” righteous ones to be just Saved on Judgment Day (please compare: Revelation 20:11 – 15, Matthew 25:31 – 46).
The rejected ones (Wicked) are clearly those who had NOT DONE GOOD DEEDS NOR KIND DEEDS TOWARD CHRISTIANS causing them harm too who are cast in the Lake of Fire (Matthew 25:41 – 46). That’s why I always encourage non-Christian friends of mine to do the “Charity Doctrine” especially toward “Christians” in hope that they might attain to this Mercy (if this exegesis is accurate). Regardless kind deeds might reduce the hell punishment if not deliver from it, right as Judgment with Mercy for those who have shown Mercy is possible according to James 2:13 indirectly.
11) Did anyone from First Christianity understand it this Way?
Yes, the very person who converted St. Augustine of Hippo understood 1 Corinthians 3:13 – 15 and Luke 12:57 – 59 in this manner:
“… I came to set the earth on fire, and what is my will, if not that finally it lights up? [Luke 12:49] I must be baptized with a baptism, and what is my torment as long as it is not accomplished! ” Higher up, He has kept us vigilant, waiting at all times for the coming of the Lord Savior, lest by slackening, by negligence, by differing from day to day his work, such, preceded by the day of the future judgment or by his own death, lose the reward of his management. It was addressed to all, in the form of a general precept; but the theme of the following comparison seems to be proposed to the bishops, that is to say, to the bishops, to let them know that they will have to undergo a severe punishment later, if, occupied with the pleasures of the century, they neglected to govern the house of the Lord and the people entrusted to them. But as the profit is thin, and the merit is low, when it is the fear of the punishment which prevents from going astray, since the charity and the love have a superior dignity, the Lord sharpens our zeal to deserve its favor and we are inflamed with the desire to acquire God, saying, “I have come to set fire to the earth,” not certainly the fire that consumes the goods, but the one that produces the good will, which makes the vases of and from the house of the Lord, consuming the hay and the straw (I Cor. iii. 12ff., 1 Corinthians 3:11 – 15), devouring all the gangue of the age, amassed by worldly pleasure, the work of the flesh that is to perish;… They have thus taught with evidentness what is the action of this fire, which enlightens the intimate of the heart. For this reason perhaps the Lord will come into the fire (see Is., LXVI, 15; 16): to consume all the vices at the moment of the resurrection, to fill by his presence the desires of each one, and to project the light on merits and mysteries…. ” (Commentary on Verses Luke 12:49 – 50) …”. “… It will be the same at the end of time: the angels will come to separate the wicked from the righteous, and throw them into the blazing furnace … or the punishment diminished according to the appreciation of the wrong … so, here, to be purified, because the sin of each is purified by the kind of transaction described above. … On the other hand, the guilty person is tortured and tortured as long as he has not served the sentence of the error committed…” (Commentary on Verses Luke 12:57 – 59) …” – Blessed Archbishop St. Ambrose of Milan, First Great Latin Doctor of the Church, Converter, Baptizer and Teacher of St. Augustine of Hippo (c. 340 AD – c. 397 AD, Commentary on Luke XII)
Source:
https://sites.google.com/site/aquinasstudybible/home/luke-commentary/ambrose-on-luke-12
12) What if I am wrong?
I could be wrong but cannot be judged for it because I already told you so that I am not sure. Verse allowing such speculation if we judge our statements (e.g. here I judge myself that I am not sure either way):
“… 31For IF WE WOULD JUDGE OURSELVES, WE WOULD NOT BE JUDGED. 32But when we are judged, we are chastened by the Lord, that we may not be condemned with the world. …” (1 Corinthians 11:31 – 32, NKJV)
God’s Will can include allowing some important once Bible Verses to be “missing” too as the famous case Apostle St. Paul’s lost letter to the Corinthians (which is spoken about in 2 Corinthians 2:3–4; 7:8, 12 according to some scholars). The Verse below in 1 Corinthians itself seem to point to an even earlier letter Apostle St. Paul wrote to the Corinthian Church which is lost:
“… I WROTE TO YOU IN MY EPISTLE not to keep company with sexually immoral people. 10Yet I certainly did NOT MEAN with the sexually immoral PEOPLE OF THIS WORLD, or with the covetous, or extortioners, or idolaters, since then you would need to go out of the world. …” (1 Corinthians 5:9 – 10, NKJV)
Yes, a letter by Apostle St. Paul to the Laodicean church where it was read regularly implying that it’s “Inspired Writing” and ‘not some human-opinion letter’ also prove this in Verse below:
“… Now when this epistle is read among you, see that it is read also in the church of the Laodiceans, and that you likewise read the epistle from Laodicea. …” (Colossians 4:16, NKJV)
The Problem is it’s almost impossible to determine even if any of the other outside of the 66 books writings are Inspired or not or some parts of it could be Inspired while others added by scribes. That’s why I keep an open mind but consider these as “possibilities” only. We will know one day.
Please allow me to repeat this: I am “not” saying that these explanations must be 100% true but rather, it’s “Possible” with “Bible Verses” and “First Christianity” as demonstrated.
Peace to you
Mystery of Spirit World Salvation from the Lake of Fire – Hope for Fallen Christians only or beyond?
Bible Verses:
“… 11For no other foundation can anyone lay than that which is laid, which is Jesus Christ. 12Now if anyone builds on this foundation with gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, straw, 13each one’s work will become clear; FOR THE DAY WILL DECLARE IT, because IT WILL BE REVEALED BY FIRE [Lake of Fire, Revelation 20:11 – 15]; and the fire will test each one’s work, of what sort it is. 14If anyone’s work which he has built on it endures, he will receive a reward. 15If anyone’s work is burned, he will suffer loss; but HE HIMSELF WILL BE SAVED, YET SO AS THROUGH FIRE. …” (1 Corinthians 3:11 – 15, NKJV)
[Emphasis Mine throughout]
True Christians participate in the “First Resurrection” (Revelation 20:4 – 6) which is 1000 years ahead of this “Judgment Day” and are never touched by the “Second Death” which is the “Lake of Fire” in any way pointing that 1 Corinthians 3:11 – 15 above may thus refer to a “Salvation of a fallen Christian or non-Christians” (i.e. the “rest of the dead”, Revelation 20:5):
“… 4And I saw thrones, and they sat on them, and judgment was committed to them. Then I saw the souls of those who had been beheaded for their witness to Jesus and for the word of God, who had not worshiped the beast or his image, and had not received his mark on their foreheads or on their hands. And they lived and reigned with Christ for [a]a thousand years. 5But the REST OF THE DEAD did not live again until the thousand years were finished. Blessed and holy is he who has part in the FIRST RESURRECTION. OVER SUCH THE SECOND DEATH has NO POWER, but they shall be priests of God and of Christ, and shall reign with Him a THOUSAND YEARS. 7Now when the thousand years have expired, … 11Then I saw a great white throne and Him who sat on it, from whose face the earth and the heaven fled away. And there was found no place for them. 12And I saw the dead, small and great, standing before [c]God, and books were opened. And another book was opened, which is the Book of Life. And the dead were judged according to their works, by the things which were written in the books. 13The sea gave up the dead who were in it, and Death and Hades delivered up the dead who were in them. And they were judged, each one according to his works. 14Then Death and Hades were cast into the lake of fire. THIS IS THE SECOND [D]DEATH. 15And ANYONE NOT FOUND WRITTEN in the BOOK OF LIFE was CAST INTO THE LAKE OF FIRE. …” (Revelation 20:4 – 7, 11 – 15, NKJV)
Conclusion
Biblical Logic: Anyone whose name is “not” Written in the Lamb’s “Book of Life” is thrown in the “Lake of Fire” (Revelation 20:15). This means that any Christian who definitely have their names in the Book of Life cannot be thrown in the Lake of Fire and never undergo any afterlife Judgment (John 5:24). But 1 Corinthians 3:15 clearly speaks of ‘someone’ being “Saved” after they undergo the “fire” which refers to the “Lake of Fire/Gehenna Judgment
on that Day” (future time, not now during the Final Judgment) as 1 Corinthians 3:13 clearly defines this Context or Timeline first.
So if “no” Christians can undergo the Lake of Fire Judgment in any way having their names Written in the Most Blessed Lamb’s Book of Life (as per Revelation 20:15), then the “Salvation after undergoing the Lake of Fire Judgment” for that case (1 Corinthians 3:13, 15) must thus refer to either a “phony/fallen Christian and/or unbelievers too”, right? Now, even if one “fallen Christian whose name is not in the Lamb’s Book of Life” is “Saved” in this Way, then Salvation for others also in this way is “not” impossible Scripturally, right? This Verse below by Christ Himself indicates that such “Fallen Christians are equal to Unbelievers in Judgment” where they receive an even more worse final Judgment sentence of “beaten with many stripes”:
“… 45But if that servant says in his heart, ‘My master is delaying his coming,’ and begins to beat the male and female servants, and to eat and drink and be drunk, 46the master of that servant will come on a day when he is not looking for him, and at an hour when he is not aware, and WILL CUT HIM [fallen Christian] IN TWO AND APPOINT HIM HIS PORTION WITH THE UNBELIEVERS [non-Christians]. 47And THAT SERVANT WHO KNEW HIS MASTER’S WILL [fallen Christian], and did not prepare himself or do according to his will, shall be BEATEN WITH MANY STRIPES. 48But HE WHO DID NOT KNOW [non-Christians?], yet COMMITTED THINGS DESERVING OF STRIPES, shall be BEATEN WITH FEW. For everyone to whom much is given, from him much will be required; and to whom much has been committed, of him they will ask the more …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 12:45 – 48, NKJV)
In other words, Christ’s Own Most Blessed Words above points to the existence of ‘fallen Christians’ receiving “many stripes” type of Judgment (Luke 12:47) who are said to undergo the ‘same Judgment’ as “unbelievers” which is understood Parabolically as the final Judgment in the Lake of Fire (Luke 12:46). However the interesting thing is that Christ Points out clearly that the “unbelievers/fallen Christians” who did not know His Will get “fewer stripes” (lesser punishment in the Lake of Fire, Luke 12:48). So 1 Corinthians 3:15’s “saved by fire” if it applies to a ‘fallen Christian’ who gets ‘many stripes’, the certainly the ‘fewer stripes’ receiving unbeliever could also be saved likewise post-Lake of Fire Judgment, right? I am “not” Saying it must be but it’s certainly “Possible” if God Wills it. Let Him Alone Decide.
First Christianity Hope for such a possibility via the “Sibyline Oracles Prophecies”?
There’s a single Mysterious Quote which Speaks of a Verbal Tradition by Apostle St. Paul exhorting Christians to read the Sibylline Oracles:
“…He distinguished the most excellent of the Greeks from the common herd, in addition to “Peter’s Preaching,” the APOSTLE PAUL will show, saying: “Take also the Hellenic books, READ THE SIBYL, how it is shown that God is one, and how the future is indicated. And taking Hystaspes, read, and you will find much more luminously and distinctly the Son of God described, and how many kings shall draw up their forces against Christ, hating Him and those that bear His name, and His faithful ones, and His patience, and His coming.” …” – Blessed St. Clement of Alexandria, Head of the Cathecathical School At Alexandria, Teacher of Origen (c. 150 AD – c. 215 AD, Stromata, or Miscellanies, Book VI, CHAPTER V — THE GREEKS HAD SOME KNOWLEDGE OF THE TRUE GOD)
Source:
http://www.earlychristianwritings.com/text/clement-stromata-book6.html
It’s possible to be real because even St. Justin Martyr boldly defended these “Sibyl Prophecies” as follows:
“… but God FOREKNOWING all that shall be done by ALL MEN, and it being His Decree that the future actions of men shall all be recompensed according to their several value, He foretells by the Spirit of prophecy that He will bestow meet rewards according to the merit of the actions done, always urging the human race to effort and recollection, showing that He cares and provides for men. But by the agency of the DEVILS DEATH has been DECREED AGAINST those who READ the BOOKS of Hystaspes, or of the SIBYL, or of the PROPHETS, that through FEAR they may PREVENT MEN who READ THEM from RECEIVING the KNOWLEDGE of the GOOD, and may RETAIN THEM in SLAVERY to themselves; which, however, they could not always effect. For NOT only do we FEARLESSLY READ THEM, but, as you see, bring them for YOUR INSPECTION, knowing that THEIR CONTENTS will be PLEASING to ALL. …” – Blessed St. Justin Martyr, a Great Early Christian Apologist who is a Foremost Exponent of the Divine Word, who Influenced Virtually all of subsequent Christian philosophy and Catholic theology, Martyr for Christ (c. 100 AD – c. 160 AD, First Apology, CHAPTER XLIV — NOT NULLIFIED BY PROPHECY)
Source:
http://www.earlychristianwritings.com/text/justinmartyr-firstapology.html
There are not the only ones as even St. Augustine of Hippo used to quote parts of them, to quote:
Example: Is Book II* of the Sibyline Oracles written by Christians? Yes, if not the Jews first but not unbelievers, to quote:
“… Books 1-2 may have been written by Christians, though again there may have been a Jewish original that was adapted to Christian purposes. … The Christian apologist Athenagoras of Athens, writing A Plea for the Christians to Marcus Aurelius in ca. AD 176, quoted the same section of the extant Oracles verbatim, in the midst of a lengthy series of classical and pagan references including Homer and Hesiod, and stated several times that all these works should already be familiar to the Roman Emperor. The sibyls themselves, and the so-called Sibylline oracles, were often referred to by other early Church fathers; Theophilus, Bishop of Antioch (ca. 180), Clement of Alexandria (ca. 200), Lactantius (ca. 305), and Augustine (ca. 400), all knew various versions of the pseudo-Sibylline collections, quoted them or referred to them in paraphrase, and were unreluctant to Christianize them … ”
Source:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sibylline_Oracles
*Book II (2) of the “Christianised Sibyline Oracles” has a Prophecy where God Saves ‘some/all? the condemned eventually’ from “Gehenna/Lake of Fire” after a long time due to the ‘Prayer of Christians’ for them, to quote:
“… for a long day will God make. And to the pious will the almighty God 405 Imperishable grant another thing, When they shall ask the imperishable God: That he will suffer men from raging fire
And endless gnawing anguish to be saved; And this will he do. For hereafter he 410 Will pluck them from the restless flame, elsewhere Remove them, and for his own people’s sake Send them to other and eternal life With the immortals, in Elysian field, …” (Sibyline Oracles, Book II, 297-322, p. 51)
Translation Source:
http://www.sacred-texts.com/cla/sib/sib04.htm
I repeat with Emphasis:
“… for a long day will God make. And to the pious will the Almighty God 405 Imperishable grant another thing, When they shall ask the imperishable God: That He [God] will suffer [SAVE] men from RAGING FIRE And ENDLESS GNAWING ANGUISH to be SAVED; And THIS WILL HE [God] DO. For hereafter He [God] 410 Will PLUCK THEM [Wicked] from the RESTLESS FLAME, elsewhere REMOVE THEM [Wicked, the ‘thirsty’ from the ‘Lake of Fire’], and for His own people’s sake [His Bride, Revelation 22:17] Send them to OTHER [Outside Regions of the Kingdom of the Heavens, Matthew 5:19] and eternal [AGE -DURING, Fulfilling John 17:2 toward ALL MEN or ALL FLESH or ALL HUMANITY] life With the Immortals [Revelation 20:4 – 6], in Elysian field, …” (Sibyline Oracles, Book II, 297-322, p. 51)
I am “not” saying this must be true 100% but rather keep an open mind to it as “possible” and let God Decide be it Eternal Hell permanently or Eternal Hell Sentence which later could be cancelled for some/all after the Prayer of Christians into the “ages/aeons/Olams that are coming” (Ephesians 2:7) by “His Will”.
P/S: Other First Christianity Writings Speaking a Similar Hope
1) Apocalypse of Peter – Salvation from the Final Hell later (“Gehenna/Lake of Fire”)
“… There is a great deal more of the Ethiopic text, but it is very evidently of later date [the opinion of this scholar is refuted by the Rainer Fragment Discovery as Described in Point 5 earlier]; the next words are: … Next: ‘ The Father hath committed all judgement unto the Son.’ The destiny of sinners -their eternal doom- is more than Peter can endure: he appeals to Christ to have pity on them. And my Lord answered me and said to me: ‘Hast thou understood that which I said unto thee before? It is permitted unto thee to know that concerning which thou askest: but thou must not tell that which thou hearest unto the sinners lest they transgress the more, and sin.’ Peter weeps many hours, and is at last consoled by an answer which, though exceedingly diffuse and vague does seem to promise ultimate pardon for all: ‘My Father will give unto them all the life, the glory, and the kingdom that passeth not away,’ . . . ‘It is because of them that have believed in me that I am come. It is also because of them that have believed in me, that, at their word, I shall have pity on men.’ The doctrine that sinners will be saved at last by the prayers of the righteous is, rather obscurely, enunciated in the Second Book of the Sibylline Oracles (a paraphrase, in this part, of the Apocalypse), and in the (Coptic) Apocalypse of Elias (see post). Ultimately Peter orders Clement to hide this revelation in a box, that foolish men may not see it. The passage in the Second Book of the Sibylline Oracles which seems to point to the ultimate salvation of all sinners will be found in the last lines of the translation given below. The passage in the Coptic Apocalypse of Elias is guarded and obscure in expression, but significant. It begins with a sentence which has a parallel in Peter. The righteous will behold the sinners in their punishment, and those who have persecuted them and delivered them up. Then will the sinners on their part behold the place of the righteous and be partakers of grace. In that day will that for which the (righteous) shall often pray, be granted to them. That is, as I take it, the salvation of sinners will be granted at the prayer of the righteous.Compare also the Epistle of the Apostles, 40: ‘the righteous are sorry for the sinners, and pray for them…. And I will hearken unto the prayer of the righteous which they make for them.’…”
Source:
http://www.earlychristianwritings.com/text/apocalypsepeter-mrjames.html
Note: The “First Bible in Christianity” (i. e. The Roman Muratorian Canon in the West and the Codex Claromontanus in the East) both mention both the Shepherd of Hermas and Apocalypse of Peter as Scripture (so where these two cannons overlap is possible to be Scripture). The “KJV Bible” is not the first bible in Christianity. This is ‘not a later edition as some scholars suggest’ as even the ‘oldest Apocalypse of Peter fragment’ called the Rainer Fragment also contains this ‘Salvation from the Lake of Fire Prophecy’. … “… “though some amongst us will not have this latter read in the Church.” …” – Muratorian Cannon regarding the “Apocalypse of Peter” … Secrecy probably because its contents were not for “sinners” as a comment regarding the Salvation from the Lake of Fire (Gehenna) by God’s Great Mercy at the Prayers of Christians for them is ‘not to be easily known by all’ as Commanded to Apostle Peter during this Vision … ”.
2) The Epistle of the Apostles
” … 39 And we said unto him: Lord, is this thy purpose, that thou leavest us, to come upon them? (Will all this come to pass, Eth.) He answered and said unto us: After what manner shall the judgement be? whether righteous or unrighteous? (In Copt. and Eth. the general sense is the same: but the answer of Jesus in the form of a question is odd, and there is probably a corruption.) We said unto him: Lord, in that day they will say unto thee: Thou hast not distinguished between (probably: will they not say unto thee: Thou hast distinguished between) righteousness and unrighteousness, between the light and the darkness, and evil and good? Then said he: I will answer them and say: Unto Adam was power given to choose one of the two: he chose the light and laid his hand thereon, but the darkness he left behind him and cast away from him. Therefore have all men power to believe in the light which is life, and which is the Father that hath sent me. And every one that believeth and doeth the works of the light shall live in them; but if there be any that confesseth that he belongeth unto the light, and doeth the works of darkness, such an one hath no defence to utter, neither can he lift up his face to look upon the Son of God, which Son am I. For I will say unto him: As thou soughtest, so hast thou found, and as thou askedst, so hast thou received. Therefore condemnest thou me, O man? Wherefore hast thou departed from me and denied me? And wherefore hast thou confessed me and yet denied me? hath not every man power to live and to die? Whoso then hath kept my commandments shall be a son of the light, that is, of the Father that is in me. But because of them that corrupt my words am I come down from heaven. I am the word: I became flesh, and I wearied myself (or, suffered) and taught, saying: The heavy laden shall be saved, and THEY THAT ARE GONE ASTRAY SHALL GO ASTRAY FOR EVER. THEY SHALL BE CHASTISED and TORMENTED IN THEIR FLESH and IN THEIR SOUL. 40 And we said unto him: O Lord, verily we are sorrowful for their sake. And he said unto us: Ye do rightly, FOR THE RIGHTEOUS ARE SORRY FOR THE SINNERS, and PRAY FOR THEM, making prayer unto my Father. Again we said unto him: Lord, is there none that maketh intercession unto thee (so Eth.)? And he said unto us: Yea, and I WILL HEARKEN UNTO THE PRAYER of the RIGHTEOUS WHICH THEY MAKE FOR THEM…” (Epistle of the Apostles, Coptic, Points 39 – 40 in full)
Source: http://www.earlychristianwritings.com/text/apostolorum.html
3) Apocalypse of Zephaniah
“… 111And I also saw multitudes. He brought them forth. 2As they looked at all of the torments they called out, praying before the Lord Almighty, saying, “We pray unto Thee on account of those who are in all these torments so that Thou might have mercy on all of them.” 3And when I saw them, I said to the angel who spoke with me, “<Who are these?>” 4He said, “These who beseech the Lord are Abraham and Isaac and Jacob. 5Then at a certain hour daily they come forth with the great angel. He soundeth a trumpet up unto heaven and another soundeth upon the earth. 6ALL THE RIGHTEOUS hear the sound. They come running, PRAYING TO THE LORD ALMIGHTY DAILY ON BEHALF OF THESE WHO ARE IN ALL THESE TORMENTS.”…” – Apocalypse of Zephaniah (aft 100 B.C. & bef A.D. 70)
Source for both Quotes above:
http://web.archive.org/web/20100330084339/http://userpages.burgoyne.com/bdespain/progress/progzeph.htm
4) Apocalypse of Elijah
“… Then the sinners [ in torment ] will see the place of the righteous. And thus GRACE WILL OCCUR. In THOSE DAYS, that which the RIGHTEOUS will ASK for MANY TIMES WILL BE GIVEN to them. …” – Apocalypse of Elijah (Veses 28 – 29)
Source:
http://www.3-in-1.net/Pseudepigrapha/Apocalypse%20of%20Elijah/The%20Apocalypse%20of%20Elijah.htm
5) Book of 1Enoch
“… 1 And in those days a change shall take place for the holy and elect, And the light of days shall abide upon them, And glory and honour shall turn to the holy, 2 ON THE DAY OF AFFLICTION on which evil shall have been treasured up against the sinners.And the righteous shall be victorious in the name of the Lord of Spirits: And HE WILL CAUSE THE OTHERS TO WITNESS (this) THAT THEY MAY REPENT And FORGO THE WORKS OF THEIR HANDS. 3 They shall have NO HONOUR through the name of the Lord of Spirits, YET THROUGH HIS NAME SHALL THEY BE SAVED [Joel 2:32, Romans 10:13, Matthew 12:21], And THE LORD OF SPIRITS WILL HAVE COMPASSION ON THEM, For His compassion is great. 4 And He is righteous also in His judgement, And in the presence of His glory unrighteousness also shall not maintain itself: At HIS JUDGEMENT THE UNREPENTANT SHALL PERISH before Him. 5 And FROM HENCEFORTH I will have NO MERCY on them, saith the Lord of Spirits. …” (Book of Enoch, Chapter 50)
Translation Source:
http://wesley.nnu.edu/index.php?id=2126
6) Ambrosiaster
“… and yet to recognize that His kingdom is ETERNAL, that is to say, the kingdom of the Son, for in the Name of Jesus EVERY KNEE shakes in HEAVEN, on the EARTH, and IN HELL. (Philip. 2) The Apostle St. Peter confirms this truth when he says:” No other name under heaven was given to MEN by which we were to BE SAVED.” (Acts 4) And did not the Lord Himself say to His disciples, “Until now you have not asked anything in my name, ask and I will answer you?” (Jn. 16:24) The REIGN of the Son therefore consists in the fact that it is in HIS NAME that ALL MEN are SAVED, and that ALL the PRAYERS addressed to Him until the end of the world are ANSWERED. But when ALL CREATURES have confessed Jesus Christ WILLINGLY or by FORCE, and have been subjected to the power against which they have resisted, then the MYSTERY of ONE GOD will be REVEALED to ALL MEN, and all thanksgivings will go back to God the Father, the principle of all things, that ALL PREACHING CEASE, ONE GOD be recognized in the MYSTERY of the TRINITY. … ” – Blessed Ambrosiaster (literally in Latin: “would-be Ambrose”), Roman Clergy active at Rome during the reign of Pope Damasus (Written c. 366 – c. 384, Reply to Question 26, Commentary on the Gospel of Luke)
Source:
https://sites.google.com/site/aquinasstudybible/home/luke-commentary/ambrosiaster-questions-and-answers-on-the-gospel-of-luke
7) Blessed St. Hilary of Poictiers
“… Man has a natural proclivity to evil, an inherited weakness which has, as a matter of experience, betrayed ALL MEN into actual sin, with the exception of Christ . Elsewhere, however, Hilary recognises the possibility, under existing conditions, of a sinless life. For David could make the prayer, ‘Take from me the way of iniquity;’ of iniquity itself he was guiltless, and only needed to pray against the tendency inherent in his bodily nature . But such a case is altogether exceptional; ordinary men must confide in the thought that God is indulgent, for He knows our infirmity. He is propitiated by the wish to be righteous, and in His judgment the merits of good men outweigh their sins . Hence a prevalent tone of hopefulness about the future state of the baptized; EVEN SODOM and GOMORRAH, THEIR PUNISHMENT in history having satisfied the righteousness of God [Jude 1:7], shall ULTIMATELY BE SAVED. Yet God has a perfect, immutable goodness of which human goodness, though real, falls infinitely short, because He is steadfast and we are driven by varying impulses . This DIVINE GOODNESS is the STANDARD and the HOPE set before us. It can only be attained by GRACE, and GRACE is FREELY OFFERED. But just as the SOUL, being free, advances to meet sin, so it MUST ADVANCE to MEET GRACE…” – Blessed St. Hilary of Poictiers, the “Athanasius of the West”, Doctor of the Church, The Champion of Trinity in the West (c. 310 AD – c. 368 AD, ‘The Theology of Hilary of Poictiers*,Page 122)
Source ( in the Book ‘Ante-Nicene Fathers Volume 01 The Apostolic Fathers with Justin Martyr and Irenaeus To Ante Nicene Fathers Volume 10 Bibliographic Synopsis General Index’ by Schaff, Philip (1819-1893)):
https://archive.org/stream/AnteNiceneFathersVolume10BibliographicSynopsisGeneralIndex/NicenePostNiceneFathersSeries2Volume09HilaryofPotiersJohnofDamascus_djvu.txt
8) St. Irenaeous of Lyons
“… Christ, who was called the Son of God before the ages, was manifested in the fulness of time, in order that He might cleanse us through His blood, who were under the power of sin, presenting us as pure sons to His Father, if we yield ourselves obediently to the chastisement of the Spirit. And in the end of time He shall come to do away with all evil, and to reconcile all things, in order that there may be an end of all impurities. … ” – Blessed St. Irenaeous, Bishop of Lyons, a Hearer of Blessed St. Polycarp the Disciple of Blessed St. John who wrote the Book of Revelation (c. 130 AD – c. 202 AD, Fragment XXXIX, FRAGMENTS FROM THE LOST WRITINGS OF IRENAEUS)
Translation Source:
http://www.earlychristianwritings.com/text/irenaeus-fragments.html
9) St. Justin Martyr
“… We have preached before Him as if [He were] a child, as if a root in a dry ground.’ (And what follows in order of the PROPHECY already quoted.) But when the passage speaks as from the lips of many, ‘We have preached before Him,’ and adds, ‘as if a child,’ it signifies that the WICKED SHALL BECOME SUBJECT TO HIM, and SHALL OBEY HIS COMMAND, and that ALL SHALL BECOME AS ONE CHILD … and of those things which would also be done by Christ Himself …” – St. Justin Martyr (c. 100 AD – c. 160 AD, CHAPTER XLI & CHAPTER XLII, ‘Dialogue with Trypho’)
The Wicked is not a Christian convert because the Church is compared as an analogy of that “Prophecy” (so in future) in St. Justin’s mysterious quote above which is a consecutive quote in his words below too:
“… Such a thing as you may witness in the body: although the members are enumerated as many, all are called one, and are a body. For, indeed, a commonwealth and a church, though many individuals in number, are in fact as one, called and addressed by one appellation … of those who it was foreknown were to believe in Him,…” – St. Justin Martyr (c. 100 AD – c. 160 AD, CHAPTER XLI & CHAPTER XLII, ‘Dialogue with Trypho’)
Source for both quotes above:
http://www.earlychristianwritings.com/text/justinmartyr-dialoguetrypho.html
Peace to you
Parables of Christ – Are we Doing the Intended Gospel Work?
“…13Therefore I speak to them in parables, because seeing they do not see, and hearing they do not hear, nor do they understand. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 13:13, NKJV)
1) What the Gospel Work is
Now the Parables of Christ clearly relate to faith and works only. Hence it’s sufficient to devote our time to understand that. Please also note that His Parables (the context for ‘seeing and not perceive’ or ‘hearing and not understand’) does “not” relate to Apologetics nor to arguments of Creationism vs Science (e.g. flat earth vs spherical earth) and hence should not be quoted for those. If someone says otherwise, for example: can someone please show which Parable of Christ Speaks of the understanding of Flat Earth vs Spherical Earth? I know so far no one is claiming such a context and thus want to make it clear that this all points to one thing: To Understand and Do the “Charity Doctrine” to “Love God and Love Neighbor” as all Parables of Christ Relate to this in regards to “Gospel Preaching” & “Kind Deeds (Good Works)”.
Yes the Verses below Teaches how to Fulfill “All Law (Torah)” and hence there is “no” extra righteousness in focusing about flat earth vs Spherical earth nor to Apologetics which condemn other religions:
How to Fulfill “all Law (Torah)”?
“… For all the law (Torah) is fulfilled in one word, even in this: “You shall love your neighbor as yourself.” …” (Galatians 5:14, NKJV)
“… Therefore, whatever you want men to do to you, do also to them, for this is the Law (Torah) and the Prophets. …” (Matthew 7:12, NKJV)
“… 29JESUS answered him, “The [k]first of all the commandments is: ‘Hear, O Israel, the Lord our God, the Lord is one. 30And you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your mind, and with all your strength.’ [l]This is the first commandment. 31And the second, like it, is this: ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is no other commandment greater than these.” …” (Mark 12:29 – 31, NKJV)
In other Words, if “All Law Torah” is fulfilled by this “Charity Doctrine” of “Love your neighbor after Loving God”, there is “nothing missing” that because “all Law (Torah)” is Fulfilled. Can you see it? I quote Martin Luther himself attesting this same Biblical truth:
“… But the most assuring words come from Martin Luther himself, who preached on this passage in Matthew in Erfurt at St. Michaeliskirche in October 1522. …
“Therefore, let each one see to it that he has these two together: the oil, which is true faith and trust in Christ; and the lamps, the vessel, which is the outward service toward your neighbor.
“The whole Christian life,” Luther preaches, “consists in these two things: Believe God. Help your neighbor. The whole Gospel teaches this.” – Blessed Martin Luther, the First Champion of the Protestant Faith (Erfurt at St. Michaeliskirche in October 1522, Explaining the Parable of the Wise and Foolish Virgins, Matthew 25:1 – 13) …
Thus Dr. Luther helps us interpret the mysterious metaphor of the oil. The oil in the lamps of the wise bridesmaids is the faith that is a gift from God to each of us, and it will never disappear. …”
Source:
https://www.mnys.org/from-a-lay-leaders-desk/when-jesus-says-he-doesnt-know-us/
And it is God’s gift of faith that assures us the door of heaven will never be slammed in our faces.
2) What the Gospel Work is not
i) Creationism vs Science (“no” such New Testament verse exists for such ‘faith building process or argument).
ii) Condemning other Religions type of Apologetics. All Old Testament or New Testament Verse condemning say “idolatry” Speaks against “believers/Jews” doing that and ‘not’ the “unbelievers” whom the Bible Commands us to “not” Judge (and let God Alone Judge them) in Verses below:
“… 9I wrote to you in my epistle not to [f]keep company with sexually immoral people. 10Yet I certainly did not mean with the sexually immoral people of this world, or with the covetous, or extortioners, or idolaters, since then you would need to go out of the world. 11But now I have written to you not to keep company with anyone named a brother, who is sexually immoral, or covetous, or an idolater, or a reviler, or a drunkard, or an extortioner—not even to eat with such a person. 12For what have I to do with judging those also who are outside? Do you not judge those who are inside? 13But those who are outside God judges. Therefore “put away from yourselves the evil person.” …” (1 Corinthians 5:9 – 13, NKJV)
Comment: Apostle St. Paul quoting unbeliever’s writing (Acts 17:28 – 30) type of Apologetics does “not” contradict his own Inspired Words in Verses above simply because he is “not” Judging the parts they got wrong but points to the parts which they got right, Verses:
“… 28for in Him we live and move and have our being, as also some of your own poets have said, ‘For we are also His offspring.’ 29Therefore, since we are the offspring of God, we ought not to think that the Divine Nature is like gold or silver or stone, something shaped by art and man’s devising. 30Truly, these times of ignorance God overlooked, but now commands all men everywhere to repent, …” (Acts 17:28 – 30, NKJV)
So the only inter-religion Apologetics allowed in Holy Scripture is quoting the parts they got right and wooing them in Love to show them the Fuller Truth and “not” by condemning/Judging other religions which is found ‘nowhere in Holy Scripture’.
Please allow me to repeat, as in the same Verses above (in 1 Corinthians 5:9 – 13 above), we are only allowed to “judge/condemn” or “expel the wicked from among us (Christians)” when he/she is an “idolater/immoral, covetous etc.” and ‘not’ an unbeliever. Proof phrases, please read carefully:
“… I certainly did NOT MEAN with the sexually immoral people of THIS WORLD, or with the covetous, … I have written to you not to keep company with anyone NAMED a BROTHER, who is sexually immoral, or covetous, … For what have I to do with judging those also who are outside [non-Christians]? Do you not judge those who are inside? [Christians] 13But those who are outside [non-Christians] God judges. Therefore “put away from yourselves [Christians] the evil person.” …”
Conclusion
If we are “not” careful in the Type of Gospel Work we do, we may end up do it in a “Lawless” Way against these Verses and be risk be Denied:
“… 1“Judge[a] not, that you be not judged. 2For with what [b]judgment you judge, you will be judged; and with the measure you use, it will be measured back to you. 3And why do you look at the speck in your brother’s eye, but do not consider the plank in your own eye? 4Or how can you say to your brother, ‘Let me remove the speck from your eye’; and look, a plank is in your own eye? 5Hypocrite! First remove the plank from your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother’s eye. … 21“Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father in heaven. 22Many will say to Me in that day, ‘Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in Your name, cast out demons in Your name, and done many wonders in Your name?’ 23And then I will declare to them, ‘I never knew you; depart from Me, you who practice lawlessness!’ 24“Therefore whoever hears these sayings of Mine, and does them, I will liken him to a wise man who built his house on the rock: 25and the rain descended, the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house; and it did not fall, for it was founded on the rock. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 7:1 – 5, 21 – 25, NKJV)
Also “… obedience [e.g. to these New Testament Verses] is better than sacrifice …” (1 Samuel 15:22).
P/S: Faith and Works Mystery
“… “Works are necessary for salvation but they do not cause salvation; for faith alone gives life.” …” – Blessed Martin Luther, the First Champion of the Protestant Faith
Source:
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sola_fide
Explanation (from the same Source above quoting Martin Luther’s Words too):
“… In relation to Sola Fide, the place of works is found in the second chapter of the Epistle to the Ephesians: Justification is by grace through faith, “not from yourselves” and “not by works”. In other words, it is by faith alone since all human efforts are excluded here. (Eph. 2:8–9)[46] Ephesians goes on to say that every person who has faith is to produce good works, according to God’s plan (Eph. 2:10). These works, however, are not a cause of forgiveness but a result of forgiveness. Faith alone justifies but faith is never alone. It is followed by works.[47][48] In short, works of love are the goal of the saving faith. (1 Tim 1:5) …” – Wikipedia
Source:
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sola_fide
Peace to you
Mystery of the Wise or Foolish Virgins – Charity Doctrine by Blessed Martin Luther the First Protestant and in First Christianity
Why this is important? If we end up being one of the five foolish virgins, we are unsaved. I only chose Martin Luther’s view and “preach the same” because:
1. Martin Luther can err on doctrine but “not” on the Doctrine of how Salvation Works in Scripture because to err on this would cause him to be unsaved.
2. Since “no” protestant would consider Martin Luther as “unsaved” (even if they disagree with him on other non-salvation affecting doctrinal points such as eschatology etc.), if we “preach the same” as Martin Luther as shown (next) in points below, we cannot be ‘false teachers’ nor be unsaved either, right?
3. The Fact that Martin Luther closely resembles ‘First Christianity’ quotes though he might have never even read them may reveal this to be the most accurate and correct interpretation of this Parable. I personally don’t mind other modern interpretations of this parable as the wise thing would be to take it collectively and ‘be on the safe side’ by considering all these possibilities and obeying the Verses they quote for one to be a ‘Wise Virgin’. Can you see by doing so, how we cannot be condemned if we follow the Bible Verses which even our theological enemies may quote? The difference is they ‘pick and choose some verses’ while ‘ignore other Verses by other men of God pertaining to this same topic’ but we ‘accept all Bible Verses’. We only don’t pay attention when there is “no” Verse at all. As they say, “no Verse, no talk” (to be blunt). Can you see it? Does this approach lead people to perdition or the approach of ‘ignoring some New Testament Verses’ whilst choosing some? Please be ‘Biblically Wise with New Testament Verses’ and ‘not’ Preach something without a ‘New Testament Verse’.
Let’s see these Interpretations:
1) Martin Luther
i) Who are the Five Wise/Foolish Virgins? Both Christians:
“… You heard how the ten virgins with their vessels or lamps went out to meet the bridegroom. Five of them were wise, but the others were foolish. Two types of Christians are depicted for us in this parable, namely, true Christians and phony Christians who only give the appearance of being Christians. …”- The First Champion of the Protestant Faith, Blessed Martin Luther’s Sermon which was translated in 2013 by the Rev. Paul A. Rydecki, On Faith and Good Works, Preached in Erfurt at St. Michaeliskirche on the Day of the 11,000 Virgins (October 21st), 1522
Source: http://www.godwithuslc.org/luther-sermon-for-trinity-27/
ii) Martin Luther Points that a ‘Fake Christianity’ Preaches the ‘Prosperity Gospel’ (in his words , ‘… the holy Gospel, which does NOT teach how you may obtain honor, favor, gold, silver, joy and happiness in this world. …’) which unfortunately is the type of Sermon Preached in many Protestant Churches today
“… Dear people, pay no attention to such things! We have something else to discuss, namely, the holy Gospel, which does not teach how you may obtain honor, favor, gold, silver, joy and happiness in this world. No, it is such a great, valuable, powerful thing that it instructs you and shows you how you may overcome sin, death, the devil, and hell. No amount of ranting will avail when doing battle against these enemies. It takes a very brilliant, sharp, mighty sword to fight against such power. Therefore, we do not contend with these weak, poor Sophists, nor do we contend against flesh and blood (Eph. 6:12), but rather against the principalities, against the powers, against the lords of the world and the rulers of the darkness of this world. This is why there is still no end to the offense it must suffer. But whoever grasps this Gospel rightly does not allow himself to be disturbed by such stormy winds and watery geysers, but remains steadfast. Even if today one person stands here and preaches in this way, and tomorrow another comes along and preaches something different, nevertheless an evangelical man does not stumble about, but remains firm till the end, and therefore is truly saved (Matt. 10:22). …” – The First Champion of the Protestant Faith, Blessed Martin Luther’s Sermon which was translated in 2013 by the Rev. Paul A. Rydecki, On Faith and Good Works, Preached in Erfurt at St. Michaeliskirche on the Day of the 11,000 Virgins (October 21st), 1522
Source: http://www.godwithuslc.org/luther-sermon-for-trinity-27/
iii) The Foolish Virgins are those with “no” Good Works though they appear Godly but have these major sins: “… wrathful as before, just as covetous (i.e. loving ‘Prosperity/Money’), just as unmerciful toward the poor (i.e. “no” Charity Doctrine), just as discourteous, …” in Martin Luther’s words:
“… The Lord is speaking now about Christendom and compares it to ten virgins. Five are wise, five foolish. Here He calls all Christians “virgins.” The foolish virgins are those Christians who give the appearance and impression of being godly. They want to be good evangelicals and are able to say much about these things. They praise the Word and say: “Yes, it is a splendid thing. This is what it means. It cannot possibly be otherwise according to the Scripture, etc.” Paul speaks of these people in 1 Cor. 4:20: “The kingdom of God is not in speech, but in power.” It consists not in speech, but in life; not in words, but in works. Although they are able to say much about many things, they are in reality unwise virgins who only have the lamps or the vessel, that is, the external equipment, and they behave according to their nature, as Matthew writes (7:22), saying: “Lord, Lord!” The mouth is there, but the heart is far away (Matt. 15:8). The oil is not in the lamp, that is, faith is not in the heart. They give it no thought. Indeed, they know it not and imagine that their lamps are ready. Their nature is that they gladly hear the preaching about faith, and if they have heard the Word, they invent and fabricate for themselves a thought, a delusion in the heart which they consider to be OIL, and yet they remain the same as before in their behavior. Following their old ways, they are just as WRATHFUL as before, just as COVETOUS, just as UNMERCIFUL TOWARD THE POOR, just as DISCOURTEOUS, etc. This faith is a manmade thing. …” – The First Champion of the Protestant Faith, Blessed Martin Luther’s Sermon which was translated in 2013 by the Rev. Paul A. Rydecki, On Faith and Good Works, Preached in Erfurt at St. Michaeliskirche on the Day of the 11,000 Virgins (October 21st), 1522
Source: http://www.godwithuslc.org/luther-sermon-for-trinity-27/
Comment: Please note carefully that those who don’t have the “oil” have a man-made faith which “loves money/prosperity” (i.e. Covetous) and are “unmerciful toward the poor” (i.e. they lack the “Charity Doctrine”) according to Martin Luther himself in his own words above.
iv) Martin Luther Prophesies Christ’s ‘Great Denial’ (Matthew 7:18 – 23) to include those with ‘Faith but NO outward Good Works as mentioned or with NO inner oil’
“… The other virgins (the wise ones) carry in their hands not only the lamps, but oil with the lamp, that is, the true faith that God has created and made in their hearts. These virgins have something with which to defend themselves, for they have God’s work with them and not an imaginary, invented delusion that is unable to protect them when death looms before their eyes. They are fixed on the divine promise, and the Spirit of God works great things through them, even to the point that they would rather die than live. Now pay attention: this parable speaks of the time right before the Last Judgment of God, and thus it applies to all Christians. For many of them—the majority—will turn, some to the imaginary faith, and the others to the true faith. This leads us to conclude that the Last Day is not far off, now that the Word of God has thus made a beginning and is bringing about disparate results. But be that as it may, I will not speculate about how far or how near it may be. To expand further on the GOSPEL, notice that the LAMPS are INTENDED to DEPICT for us an OUTWARD THING and a BODILY PRACTICE. But the LAMPS TOGETHER WITH THE OIL are the INNER TREASURES with the TRUE FAITH. For this is the nature of faith: God creates and awakens it in the heart so that a person trusts in Christ. Indeed, it is so powerfully founded upon Christ that it defies sin, death, hell, the devil, and all the adversaries of God. …” – The First Champion of the Protestant Faith, Blessed Martin Luther’s Sermon which was translated in 2013 by the Rev. Paul A. Rydecki, On Faith and Good Works, Preached in Erfurt at St. Michaeliskirche on the Day of the 11,000 Virgins (October 21st), 1522
Source: http://www.godwithuslc.org/luther-sermon-for-trinity-27/
v) Martin Luther Speaks only of one Good Work needed for Faith (which will be the Fruit of True Faith as the evidence of Salvation & not that we are Saved by Works) in his Conclusion of this Famous Sermon which is “not” fasting, prayer, church attendance etc. but “… Love God, Love Neighbor …” which is what the “Charity Doctrine” is as Christ Explained this “Love God, Love Neighbor” in Action to “inherit Eternal Life” (Luke 10:25 – 27) to refer to “The Parable of the Good Samaritan” as the “Charity Doctrine” answer (in Luke 10:29 – 37) making this claim Biblical & True in Context, to quote:
“… Therefore, let each one see to it that he has these two together: the OIL, which is TRUE FAITH and trust in Christ; and the LAMPS, the VESSEL, which is the OUTWARD SERVICE TOWARD YOUR NEIGHBOR. The WHOLE CHRISTIAN LIFE CONSISTS in THESE TWO THINGS things: BELIEVE GOD. HELP YOUR NEIGHBOR. The WHOLE GOSPEL TEACHES this. PARENTS should TELL IT TO THEIR CHILDREN at HOME and EVERYWHERE. Children, too, should CONSTANTLY FOSTER THIS WORD AMONG THEMSELVES. I should really say something about the sleep of the virgins and about the setting out of the Bridegroom for the wedding. But the hour is late. Another time. May God be gracious to us! Amen. …”- The First Champion of the Protestant Faith, Blessed Martin Luther’s Sermon which was translated in 2013 by the Rev. Paul A. Rydecki, On Faith and Good Works, Preached in Erfurt at St. Michaeliskirche on the Day of the 11,000 Virgins (October 21st), 1522
Source: http://www.godwithuslc.org/luther-sermon-for-trinity-27/
Please note Martin Luther’s definition of “oil and lamp” as follows from this last quote from him and the Conclusion of the Gospel’s True Faith too:
i. Meaning of OIL
“… OIL, which is TRUE FAITH and trust in Christ; …” – Martin Luther
ii. Meaning of LAMP
“… and the LAMPS, the VESSEL, which is the OUTWARD SERVICE TOWARD YOUR NEIGHBOR. …” – Martin Luther
iii. Charity Doctrine is the Evidence of Salvation in a True Christian and he does & preaches it toward others beginning with family first
“… The WHOLE CHRISTIAN LIFE CONSISTS in THESE TWO THINGS things: BELIEVE GOD. HELP YOUR NEIGHBOR. The WHOLE GOSPEL TEACHES this. PARENTS should TELL IT TO THEIR CHILDREN at HOME and EVERYWHERE. Children, too, should CONSTANTLY FOSTER THIS WORD AMONG THEMSELVES. …” – Martin Luther
Comment: This is the ‘Charity Doctrine’ as Beautifully Summarized as the ‘Whole Gospel’ by ‘Martin Luther himself, not me’ in his quote above and thus any responsible preaching of the Gospel must include it as Martin Luther exhorts parents to teach this to their Children and children share this Word to others lest one becomes the “foolish” virgins. Can you see it? Please read the entire sermon by Martin Luther, the First Champion of the Protestant Faith as he explains this Parable of the five wise/five foolish virgins (Matthew 25:1 – 13) to say ‘nothing more’ in this context. If there was anything more or important, such a great man of God for all protestants would have known it. And it’s not the case. We Preach this most important Doctrine for the Christian Faith ‘likewise’.
Please remember that this is not Martin Luther’s opinion but agrees with many Bible Verse of old itself: Yes, the “Good Works” God refers to Primarily are these “Charity/Sharing and Giving Works”, as these “Judgment Day Verses” itself Testify (Matthew 25:31 – 46) as without these, all other work of Righteousness lose its value or has lower value as many Bible Verses teach (Isaiah 58:3 – 9, Amos 5:10 – 12, 21 – 24, Isaiah 1:10 – 17, Jeremiah 22:15 – 17, Zechariah 7:8 – 14, Ezekiel 16:49, James 1:25 – 27).
Please don’t be deceived otherwise.
Conclusion – Christ’s Direct Words
Which “Doing Good” is Christ Speaking about? His Own Words Answers only these, Verses:
“… 41“Then He will also say to those on the left hand, ‘Depart from Me, you cursed, into the everlasting fire prepared for the devil and his angels: 42for I was hungry and you gave Me no food; I was thirsty and you gave Me no drink; 43I was a stranger and you did not take Me in, naked and you did not clothe Me, sick and in prison and you did not visit Me.’ 44“Then they also will answer [d]Him, saying, ‘Lord, when did we see You hungry or thirsty or a stranger or naked or sick or in prison, and did not minister to You?’ 45Then He will answer them, saying, ‘Assuredly, I say to you, inasmuch as you did not do it to one of the least of these, you did not do it to Me.’ 46And these will go away into everlasting punishment, but the righteous into eternal life.” …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 25:41 – 46, NKJV)
and that the “Lamp with light refers to Good Works” (chiefly charity works including sharing with one another), please consider Christ’s Own Most Blessed Words below which in First Christianity, the earliest leaders quite unanimously taught likewise too of which the ‘foolish virgins’ failed to do as per the Parable of the 10 Virgins, 5 Wise and 5 Foolish:
“… 14“You are the LIGHT OF THE WORLD. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden. 15Nor do they LIGHT A LAMP and put it under a basket, but on a lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house. 16Let your LIGHT so SHINE before men, that they may see YOUR GOOD WORKS and glorify your Father in heaven. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 5:14 – 16, NKJV)
The “Lamp with light” in Christ’s Words above have been referred as “Good Works” which keep the Faith alive as the ‘foolish virgins’ didn’t focus on this and lose their place in the First Resurrection:
“… 7Then all those virgins arose and trimmed their LAMPS. 8And the foolish said to the wise, ‘Give us some of your oil, for OUR LAMPS ARE GOING OUT.’ 9But the wise answered, saying, ‘No, lest there should not be enough for us and you; but go rather TO THOSE WHO SELL, AND BUY FOR YOURSELVES.’ 10And while they went to buy, the bridegroom came, and those who were ready went in with him to the wedding; and the door was shut. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 25:7 – 10, NKJV)
The LAMP is ‘Outward Good Works’ as Martin Luther also defined it as such earlier [in point (v)] agreeing to this Verse and Jewish Christianity related Idiom too:
“… 22“The LAMP OF THE BODY is the EYE. If therefore your EYE is GOOD, your WHOLE BODY will be FULL of LIGHT. 23But if your eye is bad, your whole body will be full of darkness. If therefore the light that is in you is darkness, how great is that darkness! 24“No one can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, or else he will be loyal to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and mammon [MONEY]. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 6:22 – 24, NKJV)
Someone put it like this, a Good Eye (Hebrew: Ayin Tov) is a Hebrew idiom meaning “generous person”. Having a good eye essentially means “having the ability to be generous when the opportunity is needed”. To quote:
“… Jesus’ saying appears, however, to be a Hebraic idiom that was used to describe a person’s outlook towards others. A person with a “good eye” (tov-ayin or ayin-tovah) was a person who looked at others with compassion and had a generous spirit, and gave to others as needed. The person with the evil eye (ayin ra’ah) is one who is stingy toward others and greedy with money. This expression is still used in Hebrew today. When people go through Jerusalem raising money, they say, “Please give with a good eye!” The same idiom is also found in Proverbs: “A generous man (Literally, “A good eye”) will be blessed, for he shares his food with the poor.” (Proverbs 22:9) Jesus also uses it at the end of the parable of the landowner who pays the workers all the same, no matter how long they work. The landowner says to the complainers, literally, “Is your eye evil (greedy) because I am good?” (Matthew 20:15). Understanding this idiom helps us understand the whole passage in Matthew 6 that begins with “Do not lay your treasures up on earth,” then talks about the good/evil eye, and then ends with “One cannot serve two masters – both God and money.” All three of these sayings are part of a greater teaching on having the right attitude toward money. …”
Source:
How to “buy and sell” to “keep one’s lamp lit”?
“… 31“But SEEK HIS KINGDOM, and THESE THINGS will be ADDED TO YOU. 32“Do not be afraid, little flock, for your Father has chosen gladly to give you the kingdom. 33“SELL YOUR POSSESSIONS and GIVE TO CHARITY; make yourselves money belts which do not wear out, an unfailing treasure in heaven, where no thief comes near nor moth destroys. 34“For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. 35“Be dressed in readiness, and KEEP YOUR LAMPS LIT. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 12:31 – 35, NASB)
“… The queen of the South will rise up in the judgment with the men of this generation and condemn them, for she came from the ends of the earth to hear the wisdom of Solomon; and indeed a GREATER THAN SOLOMON IS HERE. … 34The lamp of the body is the eye. Therefore, when your eye is [i]good, your whole body also is full of light. But when your eye is [j]bad, your body also is full of darkness. … 37And as He spoke, … 40Foolish ones! Did not He who made the outside make the inside also? 41But rather GIVE ALMS (CHARITY) of [l]such things as you have; then indeed ALL THINGS are CLEAN to YOU. …” – The KING, the Wisest One, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 11:31, 34, 37, 40 – 41, NKJV)
Please notice that Each set of these last Verses here are Christ’s Most Blessed Words only.
P/S: First Christianity Quotes
1) St. Jerome of the Vulgate
“… This parable of the ten foolish and the ten wise virgins, some interpret literally of virgins, of whom there are according to the Apostle [marg. note: 1 Cor 7] some who are virgins both in body and in thought, others who have preserved indeed their bodies virgin, but have not the other deeds of virgins, or have only been preserved by the guardianship of parents, but have wedded in their hearts. But from what has gone before, I think the meaning to be different, and that the parable has reference not to virgins only, but to the whole human race. … Or, These virgins who complain that their lamps are gone out, shew that they are partially alight, yet have they not an unfailing light, nor enduring works. Whoso then has a virgin soul, and is a lover of chastity, ought not to rest content with such virtues as quickly fade, and are withered away when the heat comes upon them, but should follow after perfect virtues, that he may have an enduring light. … For these wise virgins do not answer thus out of covetousness, [p. 849] but out of fear. Wherefore, each man shall receive the recompense of his own works, and the virtues of one cannot atone for the vices of another in the day of judgment. The wise admonish them not to go to meet the bridegroom without oil, “Go ye rather to them that sell, and buy for yourselves.” … And this oil is sold, and at a high cost, nor is it to be got without much toil; so that we understand it not of alms only, but of all virtues and counsels of the teachers. … But because the [p. 850] season for buying was now past, and the day of judgment was coming on, so that there was no room for penitence, they must not now lay up new works, but give an account of the old. … After the day of judgment, there is no more opportunity for good works, or for righteousness, and therefore it follows, “And the door was shut.” … Their worthy confession calling Him, “Lord, Lord,” is a mark of faith. But what avails it to confess with the mouth Him whom you deny with your works? … For “the Lord knoweth them that are his,” [2 Tim 2:19] and he that knoweth not shall not be known, and though they be virgins in purity of body, or in confession of the true faith, yet forasmuch as they have no oil, they are unknown by the bridegroom. When He adds, “Watch therefore, because ye know not the day nor the hour,” He means that all that has been said points to this, namely, that seeing we know not the day of judgment, we should be careful in providing the light of good works. …” – Blessed St. Jerome of the Vulgate, Doctor of the Church who did the First Official Translation of the Bible out of Its Original Languages into Latin, Priest, Confessor, Secretary to Pope Damasus I (c. 347 AD – c. 420 AD, Commentary on Matthew 25:1 – 13’s Parable of the Five Wise/Foolish Virgins in Catena Aurea)
Source:
https://sites.google.com/site/aquinasstudybible/home/matthew-commentary/catena-aurea-on-matthew/chapter-1/chapter-2/chapter-3/chapter-4/chapter-5/chapter-6/chapter-7/chapter-8/chapter-9/chapter-10/chapter-11/chapter-12/chapter-13/chapter-14/chapter-15/chapter-16/chapter-17/chapter-18/chapter-19/chapter-20/chapter-21/chapter-22/chapter-23/chapter-24/chapter-25
2) St. Hilary of Poitiers
“… The “oil” is the fruit of good works, the “vessels” are the human bodies in whose inward parts the treasure of a good conscience is to be laid up. … At the trumpet signal they go forth to meet the bridegroom alone, for then shall the two be one, that is, the flesh and God, when the lowliness of the flesh shall be transformed into spiritual glory. … Or, the trimming their lamps is the return of their souls into their bodies, and their light is the consciousness of good works that shines forth, which is contained in the vessels of the body. … They that sell are the poor, who, needing the alms of the faithful, made them that recompense which they desire, selling in return for the relief afforded to their wants, a consciousness of good works. This is the abundant fuel of an undying light which may be bought and stored up for the fruits of mercy. … “The marriage” is the putting on of immortality, and the joining together corruption and incorruption in a new union. … Yet though the season of repentance is now past, the foolish virgins come and beg that entrance may be granted to them. …” …” – Blessed St. Hilary of Poictiers, the “Athanasius of the West”, Doctor of the Church, The Champion of Trinity in the West (c. 310 AD – c. 368 AD, Commentary on Matthew 25:1 – 13’s Parable of the Five Wise/Foolish Virgins in Catena Aurea)
Source:
https://sites.google.com/site/aquinasstudybible/home/matthew-commentary/catena-aurea-on-matthew/chapter-1/chapter-2/chapter-3/chapter-4/chapter-5/chapter-6/chapter-7/chapter-8/chapter-9/chapter-10/chapter-11/chapter-12/chapter-13/chapter-14/chapter-15/chapter-16/chapter-17/chapter-18/chapter-19/chapter-20/chapter-21/chapter-22/chapter-23/chapter-24/chapter-25
3) Origen of Alexandria
“… Or, The “oil” is the word of teaching, with which the vessels of souls are filled ; for what gives so great content as moral discourse, which is called the oil of light. The “wise” took with them of this oil, as much as would suffice, though the Word should tarry long, and be slack to come to their consummation. The, “foolish” took lamps, alight indeed at the first, but not supplied with so much oil as should suffice even to the end, being careless respecting the provision of doctrine which comforts faith, and enlightens the lamp of good deeds. … Or, Whilst the bridegroom “tarried,” and the Word comes not speedily to the consummation of this life, the senses suffer, slumbering and moving in the night of the world; and sleep, as energizing feebly, and with no quick sense. Yet did those wise virgins not quit their lamps, nor despair of hoarding their oil. … ” – Blessed Origen of Alexandria, the Great but surprisingly Modest Exegete of the Eastern Church, “Nicknamed: Admantius or Man of Steel”, Tortured and Martyred for Christ (c. 184 AD – c. 253 AD, Commentary on Matthew 25:1 – 13’s Parable of the Five Wise/Foolish Virgins in Catena Aurea)
Source:
https://sites.google.com/site/aquinasstudybible/home/matthew-commentary/catena-aurea-on-matthew/chapter-1/chapter-2/chapter-3/chapter-4/chapter-5/chapter-6/chapter-7/chapter-8/chapter-9/chapter-10/chapter-11/chapter-12/chapter-13/chapter-14/chapter-15/chapter-16/chapter-17/chapter-18/chapter-19/chapter-20/chapter-21/chapter-22/chapter-23/chapter-24/chapter-25
4) St. Gregory the Great
“… For in each of the five senses of the body there is a double instrument, and the number five doubled makes ten. And because the company of the faithful is gathered out of both sexes, the Holy Church is described as being like to ten virgins, where as bad are mixed with good, and reprobate with elect, it is like a mixture of wise and foolish virgins. … It is to be observed, that all have lamps, but all have not oil. … To sleep is to die, to slumber before sleep is to faint from salvation before death, because, by the burden of sickness we come to the sleep of death. … Or, “All the virgins arose,” [p. 848] that is, both elect and reprobate are roused from the sleep of death; they “trimmed their lamps,” that is, they reckon up to themselves their works for which they look to receive eternal blessedness. … The lamps of the foolish virgins go out, because the works which appeared outwardly to men to be bright, are dimmed within at the coming of the Judge. That they then beg oil of the wise virgins, what is it but that at the coming of the Judge, when they find themselves empty within, they seek for witness from without? As though deceived by their own self-confidence, they say to their neighbours, “Whereas ye see us rejected as living without works, do ye witness to our works that ye have seen. …” – Blessed Roman Catholic Pope St. Gregory the Great, Saint Gregory the Dialogist in Eastern Christianity, the Father of Christian Worship, and John Calvin declared in his Institutes that Gregory was the last good Pope. (540 AD – 604 AD, Commentary on Matthew 25:1 – 13’s Parable of the Five Wise/Foolish Virgins in Catena Aurea)
Source:
https://sites.google.com/site/aquinasstudybible/home/matthew-commentary/catena-aurea-on-matthew/chapter-1/chapter-2/chapter-3/chapter-4/chapter-5/chapter-6/chapter-7/chapter-8/chapter-9/chapter-10/chapter-11/chapter-12/chapter-13/chapter-14/chapter-15/chapter-16/chapter-17/chapter-18/chapter-19/chapter-20/chapter-21/chapter-22/chapter-23/chapter-24/chapter-25
5) St. John Chrysostom
“… Hom. lxxviii, In the foregoing parable the Lord set forth the punishment of the man who beat, and was drunk, and wasted [p. 844] his Lord’s goods; in this He declares his punishment who profits not, and does not prepare for himself abundantly the things of which he has need; for the foolish virgins had oil, but not enough. … And He employs the character virgins in this parable to shew, that though virginity be a great thing, yet if it be not accompanied by works of mercy, it shall be cast out with the adulterers. … Or, The “oil” denotes charity, alms, and every aid rendered to the needy; the lamps denote the gifts of virginity; and He calls them “foolish,” because after having gone through the greater toil, they lost all for the sake of a less; for it is greater labour to overcome the desires of the flesh than of money. … You see then how great merchants the poor are to us; but the poor are not there, but here, and therefore we must store up oil here, that we may have it to use there when occasion shall require. … That, “While they went to buy,” shews that even, if we should become merciful after death, it will avail us nothing to escape punishment, as it was no profit to the rich man, that he became merciful and careful about those who belonged to him. …” – Blessed St. John Chrysostom, Archbishop of Constantinople, Doctor of the Church, one of the Three Holy Hierarchs (c. 349 AD – c. 407 AD, Commentary on Matthew 25:1 – 13’s Parable of the Five Wise/Foolish Virgins in Catena Aurea)
Source:
https://sites.google.com/site/aquinasstudybible/home/matthew-commentary/catena-aurea-on-matthew/chapter-1/chapter-2/chapter-3/chapter-4/chapter-5/chapter-6/chapter-7/chapter-8/chapter-9/chapter-10/chapter-11/chapter-12/chapter-13/chapter-14/chapter-15/chapter-16/chapter-17/chapter-18/chapter-19/chapter-20/chapter-21/chapter-22/chapter-23/chapter-24/chapter-25
6) St. Augustine of Hippo
“… Lib. 83 Quaest, Q59: Or, “The lamps” which they carry in their hands are their works, of which it was said above, “Let your works shine before men.” [Matt 5:16] … Or, by the five virgins, is denoted a five-fold continence from the allurements of the flesh; for our appetite must be held from gratification of the eyes, ears, smell, taste, and touch. And as this continence may be done before God, to please Him in inward joy of the conscience, or before men only to gain applause of men, five are called wise, and five foolish. Both are virgins, because both these men exercise continence, though from different motives. … Or, The “oil” denotes joy, according to that, “God hath anointed thee with the oil of gladness.” [Ps 45:7] He then whose joy springs not from this that he is inwardly pleasing to God, has no oil with him; for they have no gladness in their continent lives, [p. 846] save in the praises of men. “But the wise took oil with their lamps,” that is, the gladness of good works, “in their vessels,” that is, they stored it in their heart and conscience, as the Apostle speaks, “Let every man prove himself, and then shall he have rejoicing in himself, and not in another.” [Gal 6:4] … For there die of both kinds of men in this interval of time before the resurrection of the dead, and the Lord’s coming shall be. … They “trimmed their lamps,” that is, prepared to give an account of their deeds. … From habit, the mind seeks that which uses to give it pleasure. And these now seek from men, who see not the heart, witness to God, who sees the heart. But their lamps go out, because those, whose good works rest upon the testimony of others, when that is withdrawn, sink into nothing. … Or we may suppose it not meant as advice what they should do, but as an indirect allusion to their fault. For flatterers sell oil, who by praising things false, and things unknown, lead souls astray, recommending to them, as foolish, empty joys, and receiving in return some temporal benefit.
“Go ye rather to them that sell, and buy for yourselves,” i.e. Let us now see what they can profit you who have used to sell you their praise. “Lest there be not enough for us and you,” because no man is profited in God’s sight by the testimony of others, because God sees the heart, and each man is scarce able to give testimony concerning his own conscience. … When they have been taken in who have been changed into angelic being, all entrance into the kingdom of heaven is closed; after the judgment, there is no more place for prayers or merit. [marg. note: 1 Cor 15:51] … It is not said that they bought any oil, and therefore we must suppose that all their delight in the praise of men being gone, they return in distress and affliction to implore God. But His severity, after judgment, is as great as His mercy was unspeakable before. “But He answered [p. 851] and said, Verily I say unto you, I know you not;” by that rule, namely, that the art of God, that is, His wisdom, does not admit that those should enter into His joy who have sought to do in any thing according to His commandments, not as before God, but that they may please men. … ” – Blessed St. Augustine of Hippo, Doctor of the Church, who influenced virtually all of subsequent Western philosophy and Catholic theology, as well as a significant amount of Protestant theology (c. 354 AD – c. 430 AD, Commentary on Matthew 25:1 – 13’s Parable of the Five Wise/Foolish Virgins in Catena Aurea)
Source:
https://sites.google.com/site/aquinasstudybible/home/matthew-commentary/catena-aurea-on-matthew/chapter-1/chapter-2/chapter-3/chapter-4/chapter-5/chapter-6/chapter-7/chapter-8/chapter-9/chapter-10/chapter-11/chapter-12/chapter-13/chapter-14/chapter-15/chapter-16/chapter-17/chapter-18/chapter-19/chapter-20/chapter-21/chapter-22/chapter-23/chapter-24/chapter-25
Peace to you
Mystery of the Will of the Father – Heaven’s Candidates of Repentance
The KING Says those repentant from such a lifestyle often become Prime Candidates who “do the Will of the Father”, Verse in image too:
“… 28“But what do you think? A man had two sons, and he came to the first and said, ‘Son, go, work today in my vineyard.’ 29He answered and said, ‘I will not,’ but afterward he regretted it and went. 30Then he came to the second and said likewise. And he answered and said, ‘I go, sir,’ but he did not go. 31Which of the two did the will of his father?” They said to Him, “The first.” Jesus said to them, “Assuredly, I say to you that tax collectors and harlots enter the kingdom of God before you. 32For John came to you in the way of righteousness, and you did not believe him; but tax collectors and harlots believed him; and when you saw it, you did not afterward [f]relent and believe him. …” (Matthew 21:28 – 32, NKJV)
Two things are called “Doing the Will of the Father” by Christ in Verses above:
1) Working in God’s Vineyard, i.e. Doing Ministry by Carrying out Christ’s Commands in some way.
“… ‘Son, go, work today in my vineyard.’ …” (Matthew 21:28, NKJV)
2) Believing in St. John the Baptist’s Message of Repentance
“… 31Which of the two did the will of his father?” They said to Him, “The first.” Jesus said to them, “Assuredly, I say to you that tax collectors and harlots enter the kingdom of God before you. 32For John came to you in the way of righteousness, and you did not believe him; but tax collectors and harlots believed him; and when you saw it, you did not afterward [f]relent and believe him. …” (Matthew 21:31 – 32, NKJV)
Do you realize that “… John the Baptist’s Message of Repentance and Way of Righteousness Following the Perfection Command of Christ to renounce the World and live like a hermit …” is Primarily the “Charity Doctrine” as the “Perfect Work” after “believing in Christ”? Here are Christ’s Own Words affirming John the Baptist’s lifestyle of “righteousness” like that:
“… 21JESUS said to him, “IF you want to be PERFECT, go, SELL what YOU HAVE and GIVE to the POOR, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, FOLLOW ME.” 22But when the young man heard that saying, he went away SORROWFUL, for he had GREAT POSSESSIONS.23Then Jesus said to His disciples, “Assuredly, I say to you that it is HARD for a RICH MAN TO ENTER THE KINGDOM OF HEAVEN. 24And AGAIN I say to you, it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God. …” (Matthew 19:21 – 24, NKJV)
Note: God Knows we cannot be Perfect like John the Baptist to follow Christ like that and so that’s why He Gives Grace for us to follow in Him in a lesser than perfect way but it doesn’t change the Fact that the Biblical Perfection of Following Christ is that Direction and not ‘Prosperity Hoarding nor luxury’.
Here it is in his own words in the Context of the ‘Trees thrown in fire’ (which connects it to the Great Denial of “… I never knew you …” as that phrase is also found in Christ’s Words in Matthew 7:19 in Matthew 7:18 – 23):
“… 7Then he said to the multitudes that came out to be baptized by him, “Brood of vipers! Who warned you to flee from the wrath to come? 8Therefore bear FRUITS WORTHY OF REPENTANCE, and do not begin 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. 9And 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.” 10So the people asked him, saying, “What shall we do then?” 11He answered and said to them, “HE WHO HAS TWO TUNICS, let him GIVE TO HIM WHO HAS NONE; and HE WHO HAS FOOD, LET HIM DO LIKEWISE.” 12Then tax collectors also came to be baptized, and said to him, “Teacher, what shall we do?” 13And he said to them, “COLLECT NO MORE THAN WHAT IS APPOINTED FOR YOU.” 14Likewise the soldiers asked him, saying, “And what shall we do?” So he said to them, “DO NOT INTIMIDATE ANYONE or ACCUSE FALSELY, and BE CONTENT WITH YOUR WAGES. …” (Luke 3:7 – 14, NKJV)
Conclusion
i. Please notice that the first type of “Fruits worthy of Repentance” that John the Baptist mentions is the “Charity Doctrine” namely
“… , “HE WHO HAS TWO TUNICS, let him GIVE TO HIM WHO HAS NONE; and HE WHO HAS FOOD, LET HIM DO LIKEWISE.” …” (Luke 3:11)
ii. Another type of “Fruit Worthy of Repentance” is not how prosperous or rich you can be in this life but rather how “content” (or satisfied without asking God for more) you can be in regards to your “wages/income”
“… and BE CONTENT WITH YOUR WAGES. …” (Luke 3:16)
Biblical Connection in these Verses:
1) If anyone does “not” do the “Will of the Father”, he doesn’t go into the Heavens (Matthew 7:20 – 23).
2) The Will of the Father is to “Believe in Christ” (John 6:29) and to “obey His New Testament Commands” (Luke 6:46) which Primarily includes the “Charity Doctrine”.
“… Jesus answered and said to them, “This is the work of God, that you believe in Him whom He sent.” …” (John 6:29, NKJV)
Believing goes hand in hand with Doing as Christ was frustrated with those who believe but don’t do His Will, Verse:
“… 46“But why do you call Me ‘Lord, Lord,’ and not do the things which I say? 47Whoever comes to Me, and hears My sayings and does them, I will show you whom he is like: 48He is like a man building a house, who dug deep and laid the foundation on the rock …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 6:46 – 48, NKJV)
3) Christ Says that “Doing the Will of the Father” is closely connected to “believing and doing what John the Baptist Preached” (Matthew 21:32) whose repentance message is chiefly the “Charity Doctrine” (not hoarding, Luke 3:11, Christ’s Word: Luke 12:30 – 35) and “Contentment” (not the ‘Prosperity Gospel or faith for more money’, Luke 3:16, Christ’s Word: Luke 14:33, Luke 12:21, Matthew 19:21). Can you see which Doctrine is the “Will of the Father”?
4) The “Charity Doctrine” by Christ Himself Speaks of these Context:
i. Evident in the Lifestyle those who Inherit “Eternal Life” as the Parable of the Good Samaritan illustrates to Fulfill the Two Greatest Commandments ( Luke 10:25 – 37, Mark 12:30 – 32).
ii. The Way to Seek the Kingdom more and Gain Heavenly Treasures as a matter to reveal where our heart truly is and to keep our lamps lit (Luke 12:30 – 35)
iii. The Purpose of life by God’s Will toward Saved Christians is to do Good Works toward others
“… 8For by GRACE you have been SAVED THROUGH FAITH, and that NOT OF YOURSELVES; it is the GIFT OF GOD, 9NOT OF WORKS, lest anyone should boast. 10For we are His workmanship, CREATED IN CHRIST JESUS for GOOD WORKS, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them. …” (Ephesians 2:8 – 10, NKJV)
The “Good Works” God refers to Primarily are these “Charity/Sharing and Giving Works”, as these “Judgment Day Verses” itself Testify (Matthew 25:31 – 46) as without these, all other work of Righteousness lose its value or has lower value as many Bible Verses teach (Isaiah 58:3 – 9, Amos 5:10 – 12, 21 – 24, Isaiah 1:10 – 17, Jeremiah 22:15 – 17, Zechariah 7:8 – 14, James 1:25 – 27):
“… 41“Then He will also say to those on the left hand, ‘Depart from Me, you cursed, into the everlasting fire prepared for the devil and his angels: 42for I was hungry and you gave Me no food; I was thirsty and you gave Me no drink; 43I was a stranger and you did not take Me in, naked and you did not clothe Me, sick and in prison and you did not visit Me.’ 44“Then they also will answer [d]Him, saying, ‘Lord, when did we see You hungry or thirsty or a stranger or naked or sick or in prison, and did not minister to You?’ 45Then He will answer them, saying, ‘Assuredly, I say to you, inasmuch as you did not do it to one of the least of these, you did not do it to Me.’ 46And these will go away into everlasting punishment, but the righteous into eternal life.” …” (Matthew 25:41 – 46, NKJV)
A rich Christian with “Good Works” specifically referring to “sharing, giving” these Tangible earthly goods are said to inherit eternal life in Verses below as a “Command” (not an option, hence the “Will of the Father”):
“… COMMAND those who are RICH … Let them DO GOOD, that they be RICH in GOOD WORKS, ready to GIVE, willing to SHARE, 19storing up for themselves a good FOUNDATION for the TIME to COME, that they MAY lay HOLD on ETERNAL LIFE. …” (1 Timothy 6:17 – 19, NKJV)
iv. To clean the Inside by doing Charity/Alms as Obeying His Word Cleans us (as He Commanded it in Luke 11:39 – 41 toward a outwardly holy Pharisee).
This analogy is similar to John 9:6 where Christ Uses Spit and Clay to heal a blind man or in Luke 17:14 where He instructs some lepers to show themselves to the priests and they were healed while obeying His Word on the way.
Thus when Christ Says do “Charity” Doctrine and “all (both inside and outside) will be cleansed” it’s not that the Works cleans us but “Obedience to His Word” (which is what ‘True Faith is’) results in that “Cleansing” as the Two Examples given in John 9:6 and Luke 17:14 illustrate too. Please notice that Christ could have Healed them without instructing these actions but He did ‘not’. That’s how the “Charity Doctrine Verses” in the Bible Work likewise in the Cleansing and Fulfilling God’s Will.
“… (39Then the Lord said to him), “Now you Pharisees make the outside of the cup and dish clean, but your INWARD part is full of GREED and WICKEDNESS. 40Foolish ones! Did not He who made the outside make the INSIDE also? 41But rather GIVE ALMS [CHARITY] of SUCH THINGS AS YOU HAVE; then indeed ALL THINGS are CLEAN to you. . …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 11:39 – 41, NKJV)
Sometimes the ones who sinned the most in the past end up loving God most post-repentance and it’s most clearly seen in “love in action and not words” which is nothing more than the “Charity Doctrine” as Christ Remarks Beautifully in Verse below confirming this Truth as well:
“… Therefore I say to you, HER SINS, which are MANY, ARE FORGIVEN, for SHE LOVED MUCH. But to whom little is forgiven, the same loves little. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 7:47, NKJV)
Yes,
“… And above all things have fervent love for one another, for “LOVE will COVER a MULTITUDE OF SINS.” …”(1 Peter 4:8, NKJV)
Indeed, the “Love” meant is not feelings but literally “Love in Action” especially in “sharing this World’s Goods” which is the Definition of the “Charity Doctrine” emphasized across all these quoted Verses:
“… 16By this we know love, because He laid down His life for us. And we also ought to lay down our lives for the brethren. 17But whoever has this world’s goods, and sees his brother in need, and shuts up his heart from him, how does the love of God abide in him? 18My little children, let us not love in word or in tongue, but in deed and in truth. …” (1 John 3:16 – 18, NKJV)
Repeated with emphasis, please read’carefully’:
“… 16By this WE KNOW LOVE, because He laid down His life for us. And we also OUGHT TO LAY DOWN OUR LIVES FOR THE BRETHREN. 17But WHOEVER HAS THIS WORLD’S GOODS, and SEES HIS BROTHER IN NEED, AND SHUTS UP HIS HEART FROM HIM, HOW DOES THE LOVE OF GOD ABIDE IN HIM? 18My little children, let us NOT LOVE IN WORD or IN TONGUE, BUT IN DEED AND IN TRUTH …” (1 John 3:16 – 18, NKJV)
Peace to you
Prosperity Gospel – Is it Worth the Risk?
Question
Discussion Topic: Do you have a problem with biblically sound pastors/elders who are very wealthy?
Reply
Let’s See what Christ and the Torah/Law Says in each point below:
1) Losing something with God
“… So is he who LAYS UP TREASURE FOR HIMSELF, and is NOT RICH TOWARD GOD. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 12:21, NKJV)
2) How do we know if we don’t fit this warning by being rich?
“… 1Come now, YOU RICH, weep and howl for your miseries that are coming upon you! 2Your riches are corrupted, and your garments are moth-eaten. 3Your GOLD and SILVER are corroded, and their corrosion will be a witness against you and will EAT YOUR FLESH LIKE FIRE. You have HEAPED up TREASURE in the LAST DAYS. … 5You have lived on the earth in PLEASURE and LUXURY; you have fattened your hearts as in a DAY of SLAUGHTER. …”
– Blessed St. James the Just, First Bishop of Jerusalem (James 5:1 – 3, 5, NKJV)
3) Perfection still has to do with the direction of complete Renunciation by giving to the poor and not hoarding of wealth
“… 21Jesus said to him, “IF you want to be PERFECT, go, SELL what YOU HAVE and GIVE to the POOR, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, FOLLOW ME.” 22But when the young man heard that saying, he went away SORROWFUL, for he had GREAT POSSESSIONS.23Then Jesus said to His disciples, “Assuredly, I say to you that it is HARD for a RICH MAN TO ENTER THE KINGDOM OF HEAVEN. 24And AGAIN I say to you, it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God. …” (Matthew 19:21 – 24, NKJV)
4) The Errors of Prosperity living in times past was overlooked by God Who Commands men to repent now
“… Truly, these times of ignorance God overlooked, but now commands all men everywhere to repent, …” (Acts 17:30, NKJV)
The Torah/Law explicitly prohibits Extreme rich Christian ruler/king (and likewise Polygamy) in the Context of Inheriting the Promised Land even, Verses:
“… 14“When you come to the land which the Lord your God is giving you, and possess it and dwell in it, and say, ‘I will set a king over me like all the nations that are around me,’ 15you shall SURELY SET A KING over you whom the Lord your God chooses; one from among your brethren you shall set as king over you; you may not set a foreigner over you, who is not your brother. 16But he shall not multiply horses for himself, nor cause the people to return to Egypt to multiply horses, for the Lord has said to you, ‘You shall not return that way again.’ 17Neither shall he multiply wives for himself, lest his heart turn away; NOR SHALL HE GREATLY MULTIPLY SILVER AND GOLD FOR HIMSELF. …” (Deuteronomy 17:14 – 17, NKJV)
5) To be Saved, rich Christians are Commanded to do plenty of “Good Works, Share and Give” lest they be found unfaithful or Lawless by doing against this mandatory New Testament Command to the Rich
“… 17COMMAND THOSE WHO ARE RICH in this present age not to be haughty, nor to trust in uncertain riches but in the living God, who gives us richly all things to enjoy. 18Let THEM DO GOOD, that they be RICH IN GOOD WORKS, READY TO GIVE, WILLING TO SHARE, 19storing up for themselves a good foundation for the time to come, that THEY MAY LAY HOLD ON ETERNAL LIFE. …” (1 Timothy 6:17 – 19, NKJV)
6) The more one “seeks the Kingdom of God”, Christ Himself Says that it’s closely linked to doing “more Charity” with what “God Gives or adds to us first”, Verses:
“… 31“But SEEK HIS KINGDOM, and THESE THINGS will be ADDED TO YOU. 32“Do not be afraid, little flock, for your Father has chosen gladly to give you the kingdom. 33“SELL YOUR POSSESSIONS and GIVE TO CHARITY; make yourselves money belts which do not wear out, an UNFAILING TREASURE IN HEAVEN, where no thief comes near nor moth destroys. 34“For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. 35“Be dressed in readiness, and KEEP YOUR LAMPS LIT. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 12:31 – 35, NASB)
Conclusion
The “Abundant Life” Christ Promised is “not” inclusive of earthly wealth context by His Own Definitions below:
“… The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I have come that they may have LIFE, and that they may have it MORE ABUNDANTLY. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (John 10:10, NKJV)
“… [And He said to them], “Take heed and beware of covetousness, for ONE’S LIFE DOES NOT consist in the ABUNDANCE of the THINGS he POSSESSES.” …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 12:15, NKJV)
Renunciation of earthly things is certainly the Way toward Spiritual Growth and “Discipleship in Christ”, Verses:
“… So then, none of you can be My disciple who does not give up all his own possessions. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 14:33, NASB)
Or in another translation:
“… So likewise, whoever of you does not forsake all that he has cannot be My disciple …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 14:33, NKJV)
Peace to you
Prosperity Gospel Errors – Can it Affect your Salvation?
Many Christians think that even if they suppose that the Prosperity Gospel is wrong, they don’t think that these folks are unsaved. I don’t know for sure either. However, the Bible Verses discussed next point to it to be possibly more Dangerous than commonly assumed and may result in a person being unsaved.
So please decide for yourselves which is which but the risk is there for sure especially in light of only those who fulfill the Father’s Will enter heaven and do not Practice Lawlessness (Matthew 7:18 – 23) where the “Prosperity Gospel Content” is certainly marked out as a possible condemnable Doctrine as 1 Timothy 6:3 – 19 clearly Reveals as discussed at the end. Please consider:
1) John the Baptist could have done charity to the extent of having minimum possessions as he lived wildly in a renunciation lifestyle in the wilderness and by the Jordan River. So either he did charity to the poor or lived like the poorest by fulfilling Christ’s PERFECT New Testament Command in Verse below
“… 21JESUS said to him, “IF you want to be PERFECT, go, SELL what YOU HAVE and GIVE to the POOR, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, FOLLOW ME.” …” (Matthew 19:21, NKJV)
2) John the Baptist Commanded both Charity Doctrine and Contentment as the Key Doctrines to produce the Fruits of Repentance so that a tree is not thrown in the Fire
… 7Then he said to the multitudes that came out to be baptized by him, “Brood of vipers! Who warned you to flee from the wrath to come? 8Therefore bear FRUITS WORTHY OF REPENTANCE, and do not begin 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. 9And 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.” 10So the people asked him, saying, “What shall we do then?” 11He answered and said to them, “HE WHO HAS TWO TUNICS, let him GIVE TO HIM WHO HAS NONE; and HE WHO HAS FOOD, LET HIM DO LIKEWISE.” 12Then tax collectors also came to be baptized, and said to him, “Teacher, what shall we do?” 13And he said to them, “COLLECT NO MORE THAN WHAT IS APPOINTED FOR YOU.” 14Likewise the soldiers asked him, saying, “And what shall we do?” So he said to them, “DO NOT INTIMIDATE ANYONE or ACCUSE FALSELY, and BE CONTENT WITH YOUR WAGES. …” (Luke 3:7 – 14, NKJV)
Conclusion
i. Please notice that the first type of “Fruits worthy of Repentance” that John the Baptist mentions is the “Charity Doctrine” namely
“… , “HE WHO HAS TWO TUNICS, let him GIVE TO HIM WHO HAS NONE; and HE WHO HAS FOOD, LET HIM DO LIKEWISE.” …” (Luke 3:11)
ii. Another type of “Fruit Worthy of Repentance” is not how prosperous or rich you can be in this life but rather how “content” (or satisfied without asking God for more) you can be in regards to your “wages/income”
“… and BE CONTENT WITH YOUR WAGES. …” (Luke 3:16)
There is “no” such thing as ‘faith for more income’ as the ‘Prosperity Gospel’ errs as Apostle St. Paul Speaks this same message as St. John the Baptist above and Specially highlights this Doctrine of Contentment as a key Doctrine of Goodliness which he Prophesies that false teachers will come to teach against it. The Bible only allows a Christian to ask for “his needs” and defines this need to be “food and clothing” only as God’s Will. Anything more is a bonus and not a must for God to Provide nor for us to request, Verses:
“… 3If anyone teaches otherwise and does NOT CONSENT to wholesome words, even the words of our Lord Jesus Christ, and to the [a]doctrine which accords with godliness, 4he is proud, knowing nothing, but is obsessed with disputes and arguments over words, from which come envy, strife, reviling, evil suspicions, 5[b]useless wranglings of MEN OF CORRUPT MINDS and DESTITUTE OF THE TRUTH, who SUPPOSE THAT GODLINESS is a means of GAIN. [c]FROM SUCH WITHDRAW YOURSELF. 6Now GODLINESS WITH CONTENTMENT is GREAT GAIN. 7For we brought nothing into this world, [d]and it is certain we can carry nothing out. 8And HAVING FOOD AND CLOTHING, WITH THESE WE SHALL BE CONTENT. …” (1 Timothy 6:3 – 8, NKJV)
Please notice the following from the above Verses:
1. The men of corrupt mind and false teachers teach the false concept that “Goodliness” (i.e. being Holy and Righteous) is to “Gain” (i.e. blessed to become rich on earth as the Prosperity Gospel errs)
“… 3If anyone teaches otherwise and does NOT CONSENT to wholesome words, even the words of our Lord Jesus Christ, and to the [a]doctrine which accords with godliness, 4he is proud, knowing nothing, but is obsessed with disputes and arguments over words, from which come envy, strife, reviling, evil suspicions, 5[b]useless wranglings of MEN OF CORRUPT MINDS and DESTITUTE OF THE TRUTH, who SUPPOSE THAT GODLINESS is a means of GAIN. …” (1 Timothy 6:3 – 5)
2. The Bible Commands to keep away from any Christian or Church which Teaches that Goodliness makes you rich on earth type of Doctrine
“… [c]FROM SUCH WITHDRAW YOURSELF. …” (1 Timothy 6:5)
Getting rich on earth without sharing, reduces one’s heavenly gain or one’s Heavenly standing with God as Christ Himself Warned in Verse below:
“… So is he who LAYS UP TREASURE FOR HIMSELF, and is NOT RICH TOWARD GOD. …” – Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 12:21, NKJV)
3. Goodliness (Holy life + Righteous Acts) only works to a Great Heavenly Gain if there is Contentment so that’s why this is an important Doctrine lest we are Denied in the Great Denial for Lawlessness of not fulfilling His Will in this aspect (Matthew 7:28 – 23)
“… 6Now GODLINESS WITH CONTENTMENT is GREAT GAIN. …” (1 Timothy 6:6)
Compare that “Giving to Charity” is what Gives Heavenly Gain in Heavenly Treasures:
“… 31“But SEEK HIS KINGDOM, and THESE THINGS will be ADDED TO YOU. 32“Do not be afraid, little flock, for your Father has chosen gladly to give you the kingdom. 33“SELL YOUR POSSESSIONS and GIVE TO CHARITY; make yourselves money belts which do not wear out, an UNFAILING TREASURE IN HEAVEN, where no thief comes near nor moth destroys. 34“For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. 35“Be dressed in readiness, and KEEP YOUR LAMPS LIT. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 12:31 – 35, NASB)
4. The only Biblical Definition of Contentment is having “food and clothing”.
“… 7For we brought nothing into this world, [d]and it is certain we can carry nothing out. 8And HAVING FOOD AND CLOTHING, WITH THESE WE SHALL BE CONTENT. …” (1 Timothy 6:7 – 8)
Owning anything else is a Bonus and must be used in a life of Sharing and Giving as Apostle St. Paul continues in this same chapter and same letter (same Context) toward “rich Christians” as follows:
“… 17COMMAND THOSE WHO ARE RICH in this present age not to be haughty, nor to trust in uncertain riches but in the living God, who gives us richly all things to enjoy. 18Let THEM DO GOOD, that they be RICH IN GOOD WORKS, READY TO GIVE, WILLING TO SHARE, 19storing up for themselves a good foundation for the time to come, that THEY MAY LAY HOLD ON ETERNAL LIFE. …” (1 Timothy 6:17 – 19, NKJV)
Please also notice that Apostle St. Paul’s farewell message in Verses below where he is free from the Guilt of the Blood of All men only applies because he Preached all the Counsels of God (whether or not people accept it) and Warned of those false teachers to come focusing clearly regarding the Charity Doctrine of Giving (possibly because this message will be most contradicted by false teachers leading many to perdition) as he ends his message with Christ’s Own Most Blessed Words that “… It’s more Blessed to Give than to receive …” (So, regardless the “More Blessed” ones in His Kingdom are those who Give more):
“… 25“And indeed, now I know that you all, among whom I have gone preaching the kingdom of God, will see my face no more. 26Therefore I testify to you this day that I AM INNOCENT[E] OF THE BLOOD of ALL MEN. 27For I HAVE NOT [F]SHUNNED TO DECLARE to YOU THE WHOLE COUNSEL OF GOD. 28Therefore take heed to yourselves and to all the flock, among which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers, to shepherd the church [g]of God which He purchased with His own blood. 29For I know this, that after my departure savage wolves will come in among you, not sparing the flock. 30Also from among yourselves men will rise up, speaking [h]perverse things, to draw away the disciples after themselves. 31Therefore watch, and remember that for three years I did not cease to warn everyone night and day with tears. 32“So now, brethren, I commend you to God and to the word of His grace, which is able to build you up and give you AN INHERITANCE AMONG ALL THOSE WHO are SANCTIFIED. 33I have COVETED NO ONE’S SILVER OR GOLD or APPAREL. 34[i]Yes, you yourselves know that THESE HANDS have PROVIDED FOR MY NECESSITIES, and for those who were with me. 35I have SHOWN YOU IN EVERY WAY, by laboring like this, that YOU MUST SUPPORT THE WEAK. And remember the words of the Lord Jesus, that He said, ‘It is MORE BLESSED TO GIVE THAN TO RECEIVE.’ ” …” (Acts 20:25 – 35, NKJV)
Peace to you
Who knows God? – the Message of Blessed Prophet Jeremiah
“… And you will seek Me and find Me, when you search for Me with all your heart. …” (Jeremiah 29:13, NKJV)
1) A human being is only allowed to boast about knowing God
Such “Chosen” ones are described in Verses below:
“… 26For [k]you see your calling, brethren, that not many wise according to the flesh, not many mighty, not many [l]noble, are called. 27But GOD HAS CHOSEN THE FOOLISH THINGS OF THE WORLD to put to shame the wise, and GOD HAS CHOSEN THE WEAK THINGS OF THE WORLD to put to shame the things which are mighty; 28and the [m]BASE THINGS OF THE WORLD AND THE THINGS WHICH ARE DESPISED GOD HAS CHOSEN, AND THE THINGS WHICH ARE NOT, TO BRING TO NOTHING THE THINGS THAT ARE, 29that no flesh should glory in His presence. 30But of Him you are in Christ Jesus, who became for us wisdom from God—and righteousness and sanctification and redemption— 31that, AS IT IS WRITTEN, “HE WHO GLORIES, LET HIM GLORY IN THE LORD.” …” (1 Corinthians 1:26, NKJV)
Blessed Apostle St. Paul is quoting the Old Testament Verse below from Jeremiah and so let’s look at it in Full:
“… 23Thus SAYS THE LORD:
“Let not the wise man glory in his wisdom,
Let not the mighty man glory in his might,
Nor let the rich man glory in his riches;
24But let HIM WHO GLORIES GLORY IN THIS,
That HE UNDERSTANDS AND KNOWS ME,
That I AM THE LORD, EXERCISING LOVINGKINDNESS, [J]JUDGMENT, AND RIGHTEOUSNESS in the earth.
For IN THESE I DELIGHT,” says the Lord. …” (Jeremiah 9:23 – 24, NKJV)
There are three things mentioned in Verses above regarding “Understanding and Knowing God”, namely:
1. EXERCISING LOVINGKINDNESS,
2. [J]JUDGMENT, AND
3. RIGHTEOUSNESS
Dilemma: In speaking of Judgment or Righteousness, is God talking about politics or prosperity pursuits as the Prosperity Gospel claims?
Which particular Righteousness, Lovingkindness and Judgment is referred to in Verses above in the Context of Knowing God?
We catch a rare Glimpse of which “Righteousness and Judgment” was God referring to in Verses below when Blessed Prophet Jeremiah himself (the same Prophet inspired to write the Verses above) reveals God’s Definition as follows to a ‘king of Judah’ himself (implying that even kings therefore any politician or ruler or pastor or leader or equivalent may be required to do the same), Verses:
“… Did not your father eat and drink,
And do JUSTICE AND RIGHTEOUSNESS?
Then IT WAS WELL WITH HIM.
16HE [F]JUDGED THE CAUSE OF THE POOR AND NEEDY;
THEN IT WAS WELL.
WAS NOT THIS KNOWING ME?” SAYS THE LORD.
17“Yet your eyes and your heart are for nothing but your covetousness,
For shedding innocent blood,
And practicing oppression and violence.” …” (Jeremiah 22:15 – 17, NKJV)
Can you see it?
Amazingly, this is is the “only” Verse in the Bible I see where God Reveals the aspect which is a must to “know Him”, namely not prayer, worship, fasting, sacrifices etc. but that to “… JUDGE THE CAUSE OF THE POOR AND NEEDY; …” as God Says, “… WAS NOT THIS KNOWING ME?” SAYS THE LORD …”. I am not saying that prayer, worship, fasting, sacrifices etc. are not Good but that without doing this part, all that does not work as Isaiah 58, Amos 5 and other Verses seem to point so clearly including Christ’s Judgment Day Verses in Matthew 25:31 – 46 too which Speak only of the “Charity Doctrine” aspects of ‘… When I was hungry, thirsty, naked, stranger…’ and our response to that. Can you see it as it is Written?
The Septuagint reads the same for these Verses likewise:
“… it is better for thee to execute judgment and justice. 16They understood not, they judged not the cause of the afflicted, nor the cause of the poor: is not this thy not knowing me? saith the Lord. 17Behold, thine eyes are not good, nor thine heart, but they go after thy covetousness, and after the innocent blood to shed it, and after acts of injustice and slaughter, to commit them. …” (Jeremiah 22:15 – 17, LXX, Brenton Septuagint Translation)
Source:
https://biblehub.com/sep/jeremiah/22.htm
2) You can be rich and prosperous but yet “not” know God
Blessed Prophet Jeremiah also reveals that among God’s People there will be the “Wicked” and their “false prophets/priests” who never teach about helping the “poor/widow/orphans” but will be busy teaching a “Prosperity” message as these Verses clearly describe and despite being so wrong, “… yet they will prosper …”, Verses:
“… 26‘For AMONG MY PEOPLE are FOUND WICKED MEN;
They lie in wait as one who sets snares;
They set a trap;
They catch men.
27As a cage is full of birds,
So their houses are full of deceit.
Therefore THEY HAVE BECOME GREAT AND GROWN RICH.
28They have grown fat, they are sleek;
Yes, they [F]SURPASS THE DEEDS OF THE WICKED;
They DO NOT PLEAD THE CAUSE,
THE CAUSE OF THE FATHERLESS;
YET THEY PROSPER,
And the RIGHT OF THE NEEDY THEY DO NOT DEFEND.
29Shall I not punish them for these things?’ says the Lord.
‘Shall I not avenge Myself on such a nation as this?’
30“An astonishing and horrible thing
Has been committed in the land:
31The PROPHETS PROPHESY FALSELY,
And the PRIESTS RULE BY THEIR OWN POWER;
And MY PEOPLE LOVE TO HAVE IT SO.
But WHAT WILL YOU DO IN THE END? …” (Jeremiah 5:26 – 31, NKJV)
3) God Said to go and learn what this means, “… I desire Mercy, not Sacrifice …”.
Doesn’t the “Charity Doctrine” focus on the “Mercy” part hence Fulfills Christ’s Command to learn this?
In Verses below Christ Says that “… I desire Mercy, not Sacrifice …” includes the Context of “not” keeping the Sabbath is acceptable if “… you are doing Good …”, Verses:
“… 5Or HAVE YOU NOT READ IN THE LAW that ON THE SABBATH THE PRIESTS IN THE TEMPLE [A]PROFANE THE SABBATH, and ARE BLAMELESS? 6Yet I say to you that in this place there is One greater than the temple. 7But if you had known what this means, ‘I DESIRE MERCY AND NOT SACRIFICE,’ you would not have condemned the guiltless. 8For the SON OF MAN IS LORD [B]EVEN OF THE SABBATH.” 9Now when He had departed from there, He went into their synagogue. 10And behold, there was a man who had a withered hand. And they asked Him, saying, “IS IT LAWFUL TO HEAL ON THE SABBATH?”—that they might accuse Him.
11Then He said to them, “What man is there among you who has one sheep, and if it falls into a pit on the Sabbath, will not lay hold of it and lift it out? 12Of how much more value then is a man than a sheep? THEREFORE IT IS LAWFUL TO DO GOOD ON THE SABBATH.” 13Then He said to the man, “Stretch out your hand.” And he stretched it out, and it was restored as whole as the other. 14Then the Pharisees went out and plotted against Him, how they might destroy Him. …” (Matthew 12:5 – 14, NKJV)
Please notice carefully that it’s Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ Who Declares this part “… 5Or HAVE YOU NOT READ IN THE LAW that ON THE SABBATH THE PRIESTS IN THE TEMPLE [A]PROFANE THE SABBATH, and ARE BLAMELESS? …” which means that you can break the Sabbath and still be blameless if you believe in Christ as the Lord of the Sabbath and do Good focusing on the “Mercy” part instead of the “Sacrifice” of keeping the Sabbath. Perhaps that’s why Blessed Apostle St. Paul wrote in Verse below that Gentile Believers cannot be judged for “Sabbaths” even because the “Lord of the Sabbath” declares them “Blameless” likewise for “Mercy”, Verse:
“… 16So let NO ONE JUDGE YOU in food or in drink, or regarding a festival or a new moon or SABBATHS, 17which are a shadow of things to come, but the substance is of Christ. …” (Colossians 2:16 – 17, NKJV)
Conclusion – What did the KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ Say about “knowing Him”?
In Verses below, whilst discussing the Context of “… the Father only Reveals Knowing Christ to His Chosen …”, He Immediately links to the Context or Topic of the “Good Samaritan” proving yet again that the “Charity Doctrine” is what is Primarily referred to here, Verses (please read carefully only what’s Written as Christ Reveals Beautifully in Verses below):
“… 21In that hour JESUS REJOICED IN THE SPIRIT and said, “I thank You, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, that You have hidden these things from the wise and prudent and revealed them to babes. Even so, Father, for so it seemed good in Your sight. 22All[g] things have been delivered to Me by My Father, and NO ONE KNOWS WHO THE SON IS EXCEPT THE FATHER, AND WHO THE FATHER IS EXCEPT THE SON, AND THE ONE TO WHOM THE SON WILLS TO REVEAL HIM.” 23Then He turned to His disciples and said privately, “Blessed are the eyes which see the things you see; 24for I tell you that many prophets and kings have desired to see what you see, and have not seen it, and to hear what you hear, and have not heard it.” 25And behold, a certain lawyer stood up and tested Him, saying, “Teacher, what shall I DO TO INHERIT ETERNAL LIFE?” 26He said to him, “What is WRITTEN IN THE LAW? What is YOUR READING OF IT?” 27So he answered and said, “ ‘You shall LOVE THE LORD YOUR GOD with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your strength, and with all your mind,’ and ‘YOUR NEIGHBOR AS YOURSELF.’ ” 28And He said to him, “You have answered rightly; DO THIS AND YOU WILL LIVE.” 29But he, wanting to justify himself, said to Jesus, “And WHO IS MY NEIGHBOR?” 30Then JESUS ANSWERED and said: “A certain man went down from Jerusalem to Jericho, and fell among thieves, who stripped him of his clothing, wounded him, and departed, leaving him half dead. 31Now by chance a certain priest came down that road. And when he saw him, he passed by on the other side. 32Likewise a Levite, when he arrived at the place, came and looked, and passed by on the other side. 33But a certain Samaritan, as he journeyed, came where he was. And when he saw him, he had COMPASSION. 34So he went to him and BANDAGED HIS WOUNDS, pouring on oil and wine; and he set him on his own animal, brought him to an inn, and TOOK CARE OF HIM. 35On the next day, when he departed, he took out two denarii, gave them to the innkeeper, and said to him, ‘TAKE CARE OF HIM; and WHATEVER MORE YOU SPEND, when I come again, I WILL REPAY YOU.’ 36So which of these three do you think was NEIGHBOR to him who fell among the thieves? 37And he said, “He who SHOWED MERCY on him.” Then JESUS SAID to him, “GO AND DO LIKEWISE.”…” (Luke 10:21 – 37, NKJV)
Can you see it regarding the Topic or Context of “knowing God” (Luke 10:21 – 24) and the “Greatest Commands of God” for “Eternal Life” (Luke 10:25 – 28) the Reply of Christ for both is the “Charity Doctrine” in the “Parable of the Good Samaritan” (Luke 12:29 – 37)?
Regardless, the “Charity Doctrine” is Christ’s Major Command in many Verses directly (e.g. Luke 10:25 – 37, Luke 12:31 – 35, Luke 11:39 – 41, Matthew 25:31 – 46, Matthew 19:21 etc.) and thus qualifies to be among “His Commands” which may result in the Greatest Gift of Him living in us for those who “Obey it” and vice versa, Verses:
“… 23Jesus answered and said to him, “If anyone loves Me, he will keep My word; and My Father will love him, and We will come to him and make Our home with him. 24He who does not love Me does not keep My words; and the word which you hear is not Mine but the Father’s who sent Me. …” (John 14:23 – 24, NKJV)
Please notice ‘carefully’ that the Jews of the past got scattered from their own land due to NOT practicing the “Charity Doctrine” (which is called ‘True Justice’ in Verses below) toward the “Widow, Orphan and Poor” as Verses below clearly Reveal:
“… 8Then the word of the Lord came to zechariah, saying, 9“Thus SAYS THE LORD OF HOSTS:
‘EXECUTE TRUE JUSTICE,
Show [g]MERCY AND COMPASSION
EVERYONE TO HIS BROTHER.
10DO NOT OPPRESS THE WIDOW OR THE FATHERLESS,
The ALIEN OR THE POOR.
Let none of you plan evil in his heart
Against his brother.’
11“But THEY REFUSED TO HEED, SHRUGGED[H] THEIR SHOULDERS, and STOPPED[I] THEIR EARS SO THAT THEY COULD NOT HEAR. 12Yes, they made their hearts like flint, REFUSING TO HEAR the law and THE WORDS WHICH THE LORD OF HOSTS HAD SENT BY HIS SPIRIT THROUGH THE FORMER PROPHETS. Thus GREAT WRATH came from the Lord of hosts. 13Therefore it happened, that just as He proclaimed and they would not hear, so they called out and I would not listen,” says the Lord of hosts. 14“But I scattered them with a whirlwind among all the nations which they had not known. Thus the land became desolate after them, so that no one passed through or returned; for they made the pleasant land desolate.” …” (Zechariah 7:8 – 14, NKJV)
In an Analogy, we as Christians might be in a similar situation of “not” willing to hear this “Charity Doctrine” part of “… 9“Thus SAYS THE LORD OF HOSTS: ‘EXECUTE TRUE JUSTICE, Show [g]MERCY AND COMPASSION EVERYONE TO HIS BROTHER. 10DO NOT OPPRESS THE WIDOW OR THE FATHERLESS, The ALIEN OR THE POOR. …” and may behave in the same way as those Jews who “… THEY REFUSED TO HEED, SHRUGGED[H] THEIR SHOULDERS, and STOPPED[I] THEIR EARS SO THAT THEY COULD NOT HEAR. …” where as a punishment those Jews got cast out from their promised land where allegorically, this can mean the ‘rejection of Christians’ too from the ‘Promised Kingdom’ for ‘not fulfilling His Will’ as per the Great Denial due to Lawlessness (Matthew 7:18 – 23) for these same reasons and more.
Regardless, one thing is certainly clear Biblically as Blessed Prophet Jeremiah who was the Prophet Sent with the Message regarding ‘what it means to know God and seek Him with all of one’s heart’ (e.g. Jeremiah 29:13, Jeremiah 9:23 – 24) clearly Revealed that “knowing God” is inseparable from “Doing the Charity Doctrine” of Giving and Sharing with one another especially to the “Poor, Widows and Orphans” (Jeremiah 22:15 – 17) and thus these are certainly God’s Favourites, Verses:
“… 23This is what the LORD says: “Let no wise man boast of his wisdom, nor let the mighty man boast of his might, nor a rich man boast of his riches; 24but LET THE ONE WHO BOASTS BOAST OF THIS, THAT HE UNDERSTANDS AND KNOWS ME, that I AM THE LORD WHO EXERCISES [F]MERCY, JUSTICE, AND RIGHTEOUSNESS ON THE EARTH; for I DELIGHT IN THESE THINGS,” declares the LORD. … 15“Do you become a king because you are competing in cedar? Did your father not eat and drink And DO JUSTICE AND RIGHTEOUSNESS? Then it was well for him. 16“HE PLED THE CAUSE OF THE AFFLICTED and THE POOR, then it was well. IS THAT NOT WHAT IT MEANS TO KNOW ME?” DECLARES THE LORD. 17“But your eyes and your heart Are intent only upon your own dishonest gain, And on shedding innocent blood, And on practicing oppression and extortion.” … And YOU WILL SEEK ME AND FIND ME when YOU SEARCH FOR ME WITH ALL YOUR HEART. …” (Jeremiah 9:23 – 24, 22:15 – 17, 29:13, NASB)
Note: These Verses may be Combined because they Speak of the ‘Same Context’ of “Knowing God” by the same Blessed Prophet Jeremiah himself.
Yes, each of the above quotes has to do with What Christ Himself Commanded in Luke 11:41 below in a few versions:
“… But WHAT YE HAVE GIVE YE AS ALMS, and, lo, ALL THINGS are CLEAN TO YOU. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Young’s Literal Translation, Luke 11:41, YLT)
“… But now as for WHAT IS INSIDE YOU–be GENEROUS TO THE POOR, and EVERYTHING WILL BE CLEAN FOR YOU. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 11:41, NIV)
The “Perfection” of “following Christ” itself is linked to the “Charity Doctrine” of ‘… Sell what you have and Give to the Poor …’ as Christ Himself Beautifully Declares in Verses below:
“… 21JESUS said to him, “IF you want to be PERFECT, go, SELL what YOU HAVE and GIVE to the POOR, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, FOLLOW ME.” …” (Matthew 19:21, NKJV)
Yes “Obeying His Word in Giving Alms/Charity” cleanses us from within from “Greed (Coveteousness)” and “Wickedness (Evil)”, Verses:
“… (39Then the Lord said to him), “Now you Pharisees make the outside of the cup and dish clean, but your INWARD part is full of GREED and WICKEDNESS. 40Foolish ones! Did not He who made the outside make the INSIDE also? 41But rather GIVE ALMS [CHARITY] of SUCH THINGS AS YOU HAVE; then indeed ALL THINGS are CLEAN to you. . …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 11:39 – 41, NKJV)
Peace to you
Mystery of the Great Denial – Definition of Righteous Vs Wicked
The Great Denial:
“… 14Because narrow is the gate and difficult is the way which leads to life, and there are few who find it. … 21“Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who DOES THE WILL OF MY FATHER in heaven. 22MANY will say to Me in that day, ‘Lord, Lord, have we NOT PROPHESIED in Your name, CAST OUT DEMONS in Your name, and DONE MANY WONDERS in Your name?’ 23And then I will declare to them, ‘I never knew you; depart from Me, YOU WHO PRACTICE LAWLESSNESS!’. 24“Therefore WHOEVER HEARS THESE SAYINGS OF MINE, and DOES THEM, I will liken him to a WISE MAN who BUILT HIS HOUSE ON THE ROCK: …” – Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 7:14, 21 – 23, 24, NKJV)
Which “Lawlessness” is Christ referring to? Is He Implying that Gentile Believers Practice All the Religious aspects of the Law/Torah?
1. The Gentile Believers only need to Keep these Parts of the Torah/Law to “not” be “Lawless”
“… 1Some men came down from Judea and began teaching the brethren, “Unless you are circumcised according to the custom of Moses, you cannot be saved. … 5But some of the sect of the Pharisees who had believed stood up, saying, “It is necessary to circumcise them and to direct them to OBSERVE THE LAW OF MOSES.”… “The apostles and the brethren who are elders, to the brethren in Antioch and Syria and Cilicia who are from the Gentiles, greetings. 24“Since we have heard that some of our number to whom WE GAVE NO INSTRUCTION have disturbed you with their words, unsettling your souls, … 28“For it seemed GOOD to the HOLY SPIRIT and TO US to lay upon you NO GREATER BURDEN than THESE ESSENTIALS: 29that you ABSTAIN FROM THINGS SACRIFICED TO IDOLS and FROM BLOOD and FROM THINGS STRANGLED and FROM FORNICATION; if YOU KEEP YOURSELVES FREE FROM SUCH THINGS, YOU WILL DO WELL. Farewell.”…” (Acts 15:1,5, 23 – 24, 28 – 29, NASB)
Context: Acts 15 above lists the “Essentials/Basics” (Acts 15:28) to be “Saved” for those who already believe in Christ.
i) Jewish believers may keep the Law in some Unabolished parts but Gentile Believers are “not” given that option
“… 20And when they heard it, they glorified the Lord. And they said to him, “You see, brother, how many MYRIADS OF JEWS there are WHO HAVE BELIEVED, and THEY ARE ALL ZEALOUS FOR THE LAW; 21but they have been informed about you that YOU TEACH ALL THE JEWS who are among the Gentiles to FORSAKE MOSES, saying that they ought not to circumcise their children NOR TO WALK ACCORDING TO THE CUSTOMS. 22[d]What then? The assembly must certainly meet, for they will hear that you have come. 23Therefore do what we tell you: We have four men who have taken a vow. 24Take them and be purified with them, and pay their expenses so that they may shave their heads, and that all may know that those things of which they were informed concerning you are nothing, but that YOU YOURSELF ALSO WALK ORDERLY and KEEP THE LAW. 25But concerning the GENTILES WHO BELIEVE, we have written and decided [e]that they should OBSERVE NO SUCH THING, except that they should keep themselves from things offered to idols, from blood, from things strangled, and from [f]sexual immorality.” …” (Acts 21:20 – 25, NKJV)
“… 26For YOU ARE ALL SONS OF GOD THROUGH FAITH in Christ Jesus. 27For as many of you as were baptized into Christ have put on Christ. 28There is NEITHER JEW NOR GREEK, there is neither slave nor free, there is NEITHER MALE NOR FEMALE; for you are all one in Christ Jesus. 29And if you are Christ’s, then YOU ARE ABRAHAM’S SEED, and HEIRS ACCORDING TO THE PROMISE. …” (Galatians 3:26 – 28, NKJV)
Please notify that the “… No more Jew Vs Gentile …” Verse in Galatians 3:26 – 28 applies in the same way for the “… No more male Vs female …” In the context of inheriting the Kingdom but applies on earth now just like these Verses prove such distinctions between Jew Vs Gentile Believers observations (e.g. Acts 15:29, Acts 21:24 – 25) or male Vs female New Testament Commands (1 Corinthians 14:33 – 37, 1 Timothy 2:12) which all apply now as part of the “… Teach them to observe ALL that I COMMANDED YOU …” part of the ‘Great Commission’ (Matthew 28:20) toward anything written as a ‘Command by His Apostles’ (1 Corinthians 14:37, 2 Peter 3:2) which ought to be taught in ‘every church everywhere’ to “not” go beyond what’s Written in these Verses (1 Corinthians 4:6). Can you see it?
“… 1Let a man so account of us, as of the ministers of Christ, and stewards of the mysteries of God. 2Moreover it is required in stewards, that a man be found faithful. … 6And these things, brethren, I have in a figure transferred to myself and to Apollos for your sakes; THAT YE MIGHT LEARN in us NOT TO THINK OF MEN ABOVE THAT WHICH IS WRITTEN, THAT NO ONE OF YOU BE PUFFED UP FOR ONE AGAINST ANOTHER. 7For WHO MAKETH THEE TO DIFFER FROM ANOTHER? and what hast thou that thou didst not receive? now if thou didst receive it, why dost thou glory, as if thou hadst not received it? … 14I WRITE not these things to shame you, but as my beloved sons I warn you. 15For though ye have ten thousand instructors in Christ, yet have ye NOT MANY FATHERS: for in Christ Jesus I have begotten you through the gospel. 16Wherefore I beseech you, BE YE FOLLOWERS OF ME. 17For this cause have I sent unto you Timotheus, who is my beloved son, and FAITHFUL in the Lord, who shall BRING YOU INTO REMEMBRANCE of my ways which be in Christ, AS I TEACH EVERY WHERE IN EVERY CHURCH. 18Now some are puffed up, as though I would not come to you. …” (1 Corinthians 4:1 – 2, 6 – 7, 14 – 18, KJV)
“… 18And Jesus came and spoke to them, saying, “All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. 19Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20TEACHING THEM TO OBSERVE ALL THINGS THAT I HAVE COMMANDED YOU; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” Amen. …” (Matthew 28:18 – 20, NKJV)
“… that you may be mindful of the words which were spoken before by the holy prophets, and of the COMMANDMENT OF US, THE APOSTLES of the Lord and Savior, …” (2 Peter 3:2, NKJV)
“… 36Or did the word of God originate with you? Or are you the only people it has reached? 37If anyone thinks they are a prophet or otherwise gifted by the Spirit, let them acknowledge that WHAT I AM WRITING to you is the LORD’S COMMAND. 38But if anyone ignores this, they will themselves be ignored. …” (1 Corinthians 14:36 – 38, NIV)
Note: Between the Command to Baptize people or teach them the Gospel correctly where both are found in the Great Commission Verse above (Matthew 28:18 – 20), it’s a greater work to “Preach the Gospel” correctly as the “… Observe all that I Commanded you (the Apostles) …” Part (Matthew 18:20) of the Great Commission by Christ Himself clearly Reveals, Verse:
“… For Christ did not send me to baptize, but to preach the gospel, …” (1 Corinthians 1:17, NKJV)
So is there more?
2. God can forgive and Save any believer but to “Inherit the Kingdom” and its differing levels of inheritance (e.g. thirty fold Vs sixty fold Vs Hundredfold, Matthew 13:8), one needs to both “do and teach” these (Matthew 5:19); those without the Fruits of the Spirit are the ‘false prophets’:
“… 18A good tree cannot bear bad fruit, nor can a bad tree bear good fruit. 19Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. 20Therefore by their fruits you will know them. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 7:18 – 20, NKJV)
“… 14For ALL THE LAW is FULFILLED IN ONE WORD, even in this: “YOU SHALL LOVE YOUR NEIGHBOR AS YOURSELF.” … 18But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under the law. 19Now the works of the flesh are evident, which are: adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lewdness, 20idolatry, sorcery, hatred, contentions, jealousies, outbursts of wrath, selfish ambitions, dissensions, heresies, 21envy, murders, drunkenness, revelries, and the like; of which I tell you beforehand, just as I also told you in time past, that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God. 22But the FRUIT of the SPIRIT is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no law. 24And those who are Christ’s have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. 25If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit. 26Let us not become conceited, provoking one another, envying one another. …” (Galatians 5:14, 18 – 26, NKJV)
3. You can be Saved by believing in Christ and Practicing the 10 Commandment’s Holiness Command but “Perfection” of the Kingdom’s Inheritance is based on the extra ‘Charity Doctrine’ which includes the addition “… Sell what you have and Give to the Poor …” as Christ Teaches in Verses below:
i. Believing in Christ and Practicing the 10 Commandments but still “LACKING” something toward “Perfection”
“… 16Now behold, one came and said to Him, “Good Teacher, WHAT GOOD THING SHALL I DO that I MAY HAVE ETERNAL LIFE?” 17So He said to him, “Why do you call Me good? No one is good but One, that is, God. But IF YOU WANT TO ENTER INTO LIFE, KEEP THE COMMANDMENTS.” 18He said to Him, “Which ones?” Jesus said, “‘You shall not murder,’ ‘You shall not commit adultery,’ ‘You shall not steal,’ ‘You shall not bear false witness,’ 19‘Honor your father and your mother,’ and, ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ ” 20The young man said to Him, “All these things I have kept from my youth. WHAT DO I STILL LACK?” …” (Matthew 19:16 – 20, NKJV)
*Only the “Sabbath Commandment” was never Practiced by any Gentile Believer in First Christianity and can be Practiced either way to keep it or not keep it as a special day, Verses:
“… 16So let NO ONE JUDGE YOU in food or in drink, or regarding a festival or a new moon or SABBATHS, 17which are a shadow of things to come, but the substance is of Christ. …” (Colossians 2:16 – 17, NKJV)
“… One person regards one day above another, another regards every day alike. Each person must be fully convinced in his own mind. …” (Romans 14:5, NASB)
Comment: Romans 14:5 speaks generally about any sacred day which includes the Sabbaths which can be observed either way as implied in this verse in all generality as Colossians 2:16 means too as that’s the meaning of “let no one judge you”. For if apostle Paul wanted to command Sabbath observance, he would have written to observe it which he did not. Please note that the one judging others regarding Sabbath observance are those who keep it and hence the phase “no one judge you” points stronger to ‘not observing it’ for Gentile believers.
ii. Perfection beyond keeping those 10 Commandments involves the Charity Doctrine of “… Sell what you have and Give to the Poor …” to “… Follow Christ …” (In Action in these aspects too beyond believing in Him only) to attain to the Greatest inheritance of the Kingdom described here as the “Treasure in the Heavens”.
“… Jesus said, “‘You shall not murder,’ ‘You shall not commit adultery,’ ‘You shall not steal,’ ‘You shall not bear false witness,’ 19‘Honor your father and your mother,’ and, ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ ” 20The young man said to Him, “All these things I have kept [g]from my youth. What do I STILL LACK?” 21Jesus said to him, “If you want to be PERFECT, go, SELL WHAT YOU HAVE and GIVE TO THE POOR, and YOU WILL HAVE TREASURE IN HEAVEN; and come, FOLLOW ME. 22But when the young man heard that saying, he went away sorrowful, for he had great possessions.” …” (Matthew 19:18 – 22, NKJV)
This Mysterious “Treasure in Heaven” phrase has only been Promised to those Christians who “… Give to the Poor …” as no other Righteous Act is linked to it in New Testament Verses directly and these are Uttered by Christ Himself in Verses above and below as “… Give to Charity/Alms …”:
“… 31“But SEEK HIS KINGDOM, and THESE THINGS will be ADDED TO YOU. 32“Do not be afraid, little flock, for your Father has chosen gladly to give you the kingdom. 33“SELL YOUR POSSESSIONS and GIVE TO CHARITY; make yourselves money belts which do not wear out, an UNFAILING TREASURE IN HEAVEN, where no thief comes near nor moth destroys. 34“For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. 35“Be dressed in readiness, and KEEP YOUR LAMPS LIT. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 12:31 – 35, NASB)
Conclusion – Who are the Thirty, Sixty and Hundredfold ones?
“… But others fell on GOOD GROUND and yielded a crop: some a HUNDREDFOLD, some sixty, some thirty. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 13:8, NKJV)
“… So then, NONE of you can be MY DISCIPLES who does NOT give up ALL HIS OWN POSSESSIONS. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 14:33, NASB)
The Bible doesn’t explicitly Explain the differences between the Thirty, Sixty Vs Hundredfold ones but the Verses below is the only set where Christ Himself Reveals the Secret of the “HUNDREDFOLD” ones as follows (please notice the Word “HUNDREDFOLD” carefully in Matthew 19:29 below):
“… 27Then Peter answered and said to Him, “See, we have LEFT ALL and FOLLOWED YOU. Therefore what shall we have?” 28So Jesus said to them, “Assuredly I say to you, that in the REGENERATION, when the Son of Man sits on the throne of His glory, you who have followed Me will also sit on twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel. 29And EVERYONE who has LEFT HOUSES or brothers or sisters or father or mother or WIFE or children or LANDS, for MY NAME’S SAKE, shall RECEIVE a HUNDREDFOLD, and INHERIT ETERNAL LIFE. 30But MANY who are FIRST will be LAST, and the LAST FIRST.” (Matthew 19:27 – 30, NKJV)
Note: Did you also notice that to attain to the “HUNDREDFOLD” Level of Inheritance of His Kingdom, Christ does “not” point to Number of Converts or all that but only these aspects:
i. LEFT HOUSES or Lands for doing the Gospel Work which implies using Finances to do the Gospel Commands. The direct Context of the Verses above is the continued challenge of Christ to the Rich Man to attain toward Perfection by “… Selling what he has and giving to the Poor …” as Christ Spoke a few Verses earlier in Matthew 19:18 – 26.
ii. Left Family for doing the Gospel Work
iii. The Context of “left wife” in Verse above implies both the meaning of ‘remaning unmarried’ (hence the concept of remaining unmarried for the Gospel Work’s Sake as First Christianity tradition taught) and also literally leaving one’s wife to do Gospel Work. That’s why being “unmarried” and doing Gospel Commands is better than marrying and doing Gospel Commands as Apostle St. Paul himself Wrote in Verse below:
“… 28 But even if you do marry, you have not sinned; and if a virgin marries, she has not sinned. Nevertheless such will have TROUBLE IN THE FLESH, but I WOULD SPARE YOU. … 32But I want you to be without care. He who is UNMARRIED CARES FOR THE THINGS OF THE LORD—how he may PLEASE THE LORD. 33But HE WHO IS MARRIED CARES about the THINGS OF THE WORLD—how he may PLEASE HIS WIFE. … 38So then he who GIVES HER IN MARRIAGE DOES WELL, but he WHO DOES NOT GIVE HER IN MARRIAGE DOES BETTER. …” (1 Corinthians 7:28, 32 – 33, 38, NKJV)
iv. Based on these aspects Christ Reveals Majestically that the “first will be last” and “last first” implying hierarchy in His Kingdom for both “doing and teaching” others “His Direct New Testament Commands”:
“… 19Whoever therefore breaks one of the least of these commandments, and teaches men so, shall be called least in the kingdom of heaven; but whoever does and teaches them, he shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven. 20For I say to you, that UNLESS YOUR RIGHTEOUSNESS EXCEEDS THE RIGHTEOUSNESS OF THE SCRIBES AND PHARISEES, YOU WILL BY NO MEANS ENTER THE KINGDOM OF HEAVEN. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 5:19 – 20, NKJV)
Many Christians or converts fail to become the thirty, sixty or hundredfold fruit because they’re too busy seeking after to “… Become Rich …” and are “… Worried about this life being caught up with worldly pursuits …” as Christ Warned below:
“… but the WORRIES OF THE WORLD, and the DECEITFULNESS OF RICHES, and the DESIRES FOR OTHER THINGS enter in and choke the word, and it becomes UNFRUITFUL. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ, God in Flesh (Mark 4:19, NASB)
Now, since a Primary Role of the Charity Doctrine clearly affects whether a Christian may attain to the “Perfection” (Matthew 19:21) of the “Hundredfold” Inheritance (Matthew 19:29) in the Context of “Leaving Wealth to Give to the Poor (Matthew 19:21) or leaving houses/lands too and Marriage/Family Life for the Gospel Work (Matthew 19:29)”, we ought to learn this ‘Charity Doctrine’ from other Verses in the Bible because it applies to this Greatest Hundredfold Command of Christ toward Christian Perfection in Following Him (Matthew 19:21). So let’s see some verse lists as follows:
1) Charity Doctrine in the Old Testament Religion
“… 15Who has not eaten [e]on the mountains,
Nor lifted his eyes to the idols of the house of Israel,
Nor defiled his neighbor’s wife;
16Has not oppressed anyone,
Nor withheld a pledge,
Nor robbed by violence,
But HAS GIVEN HIS BREAD TO THE HUNGRY
And COVERED THE NAKED WITH CLOTHING;
17Who HAS WITHDRAWN HIS HAND FROM [F]THE POOR And NOT RECEIVED USURY OR INCREASE,
But has executed My judgments
And walked in My statutes—
He shall not die for the iniquity of his father;
He SHALL SURELY LIVE! …” (Ezekiel 18:15 – 17, NKJV)
Note: These Verses reveal the Holiness Commands with the Charity Doctrine parts but my focus here is to highlight the Charity Doctrine part only to show its importance in the Writings of the Prophets and the Torah/Law too likewise.
“… 7“If there is among you a POOR MAN OF YOUR BRETHREN, within any of the [d]gates in your land which the Lord your God is giving you, you shall not harden your heart nor shut your hand from YOUR POOR BROTHER, 8but you shall [e]OPEN YOUR HAND WIDE TO HIM AND WILLINGLY LEND HIM sufficient FOR HIS NEED, WHATEVER HE NEEDS. 9Beware lest there be a wicked thought in your heart, saying, ‘The seventh year, the year of release, is at hand,’ and your eye be evil against your poor brother and you give him nothing, and he cry out to the Lord against you, and it become sin among you. 10You shall surely give to him, and your heart should not be grieved when you give to him, because for this thing the Lord your God will bless you in all your works and in all to which you put your hand. 11For THE POOR WILL NEVER CEASE FROM THE LAND; therefore I COMMAND YOU, SAYING, ‘You SHALL [F]OPEN YOUR HAND WIDE to YOUR BROTHER, TO YOUR POOR and YOUR NEEDY, IN YOUR LAND.’ …” (Deuteronomy 15:7 – 11, NKJV)
Please notify that in the Torah Verses above, helping the Poor and Needy is “not” an option but a “Command of God”.
Helping the Poor increases one’s personal “Righteousness” as Verses below declare:
“… 12And IF THE MAN IS POOR, you shall not [e]keep his pledge overnight. 13You shall in any case return the pledge to him again when the sun goes down, that he may sleep in his own garment and bless you; and it SHALL BE RIGHTEOUSNESS TO YOU BEFORE THE LORD YOUR GOD. …” (Deuteronomy 24:12 – 13, NKJV)
“… 7Is it not to deal thy BREAD to the HUNGRY, and that thou bring the POOR that are cast out TO THY HOUSE? when thou SEEST the NAKED, that THOU COVER HIM and that thou hide not thyself from thine own flesh? 8Then shall THY LIGHT break forth as the MORNING, and thine HEALTH shall spring forth SPEEDILY: and thy righteousness shall go before thee; the glory of the LORD shall be thy rereward. … 10And if thou draw out THY SOUL to the HUNGRY, and SATISFY the AFFLICTED SOUL; then shall THY LIGHT RISE in obscurity, and THY DARKNESS be as the NOONDAY: 11And the LORD shall guide thee continually, and satisfy thy soul in drought, and make fat thy bones: and thou shalt be like a watered garden, and like a spring of water, whose waters fail not. 12And they that shall be of thee shall build the old waste places: thou shalt raise up the foundations of many generations; and thou shalt be called, The repairer of the breach, The restorer of paths to dwell in. …” (Isaiah 58:7 – 8, 10 – 12, KJV)
“… Look, this was the iniquity of your sister SODOM: She and her daughter had PRIDE, FULLNESS OF FOOD, and ABUNDANCE OF IDLENESS; NEITHER did she strengthen the hand of the POOR and NEEDY. …” (Ezekiel 16:49, NKJV)
End times will be full of these Sodom Traits as per Prophecy below:
“… 6and turning the cities of SODOM and Gomorrah into ashes, condemned them to destruction, making them an EXAMPLE to those who afterward would LIVE UNGODLY; 7and delivered righteous Lot, who was oppressed by the filthy conduct of the wicked 8(for that righteous man, dwelling among them, tormented his righteous soul from day to day by seeing and hearing their lawless deeds)— 9then the Lord knows how to deliver the godly out of temptations and to reserve the UNJUST under PUNISHMENT for the DAY of JUDGMENT …” (2 Peter 2:6 – 9, NKJV)
“… 10They HATE the one who REBUKES in the gate,
And they ABHOR the one who SPEAKS UPRIGHTLY.
11Therefore, BECAUSE YOU TREAD DOWN THE POOR
And take grain taxes from him,
Though you have built houses of hewn stone,
Yet you shall not dwell in them;
You have planted pleasant vineyards,
But you shall not drink wine from them.
12For I know YOUR MANIFOLD TRANSGRESSIONS
And YOUR MIGHTY SINS:
AFFLICTING THE JUST and TAKING BRIBES;
DIVERTING THE POOR FROM JUSTICE at the gate. … 21“I HATE, I despise your feast days,
And I do NOT SAVOR your SACRED ASSEMBLIES.
22Though you offer Me burnt offerings and your grain offerings, I will NOT ACCEPT them, NOR will I regard your fattened peace offerings.
23TAKE AWAY from Me the NOISE of YOUR SONGS,
For I will NOT HEAR the MELODY of your STRINGED INSTRUMENTS. 24But let JUSTICE run down like water, And RIGHTEOUSNESS like a mighty stream. … ” (Amos 5:10 – 12, 21 – 24, NKJV)
“… 10Hear the WORD OF THE LORD,
You RULERS OF SODOM;
GIVE EAR to the LAW OF OUR GOD,
You PEOPLE OF GOMORRAH:
11“To what PURPOSE is the MULTITUDE OF YOUR SACRIFICES TO ME?”
Says the Lord.
“I have had enough of burnt offerings of rams
And the fat of fed cattle.
I do not delight in the blood of bulls,
Or of lambs or goats.
12“When you come to appear before Me,
Who has required this from your hand,
To trample My courts?
13Bring no more futile[f] sacrifices;
Incense is an abomination to Me.
The New Moons, the Sabbaths, and the CALLING OF ASSEMBLIES—
I CANNOT ENDURE INIQUITY and THE SACRED MEETING.
14Your New Moons and your appointed feasts
MY SOUL HATES;
They are a trouble to Me,
I am weary of bearing them.
15When you [g]spread out your hands,
I will hide My eyes from you;
Even though YOU MAKE MANY PRAYERS
I WILL NOT HEAR.
Your HANDS ARE FULL OF [H]BLOOD.
16“Wash yourselves, make yourselves clean;
Put away the evil of your doings from before My eyes.
Cease to do evil,
17LEARN TO DO GOOD;
Seek justice,
REBUKE [I]THE OPPRESSOR;
[j]DEFEND THE FATHERLESS,
PLEAD FOR THE WIDOW. …” (Isaiah 1:10 – 17, NKJV)
“… Wherefore, O king, let my counsel be acceptable unto thee, and BREAK OFF THY SINS BY RIGHTEOUSNESS, and THINE INIQUITIES BY SHEWING MERCY TO THE POOR; if it may be a lengthening of thy tranquillity. …” – Blessed and Holy Prophet Daniel (Daniel 4:27, KJV based on the Masoretic Text)
Source: https://biblehub.com/daniel/4-27.htm
Compare:
” … 27Therefore, O king, let my counsel please thee, and ATONE FOR THY SINS BY ALMS, and THINE INIQUITIES BY COMPASSION ON THE POOR: it may be God will be long-suffering to thy trespasses.” … – Blessed and Holy Prophet Daniel (Daniel 4:27, Brenton Septuagint Translation, based on the Septuagint or LXX)
Source: https://biblehub.com/sep/daniel/4.htm
Comment: The phrase “… God will be long-suffering to thy trespasses …” implies the Context of ‘Judgment of Sins’ is removed.
Blessed Job was one of the most Righteous men to walk the earth and was one of God’s Favourite and though he was rich he was full of the Charity Doctrine, Verses:
“… 16“If I have kept the POOR from their desire,
Or caused the eyes of the WIDOW to fail,
17Or EATEN MY MORSEL BY MYSELF,
So that the FATHERLESS could not eat of it
18(But from my youth I REARED HIM AS A FATHER,
And from my mother’s womb I GUIDED [D]THE WIDOW);
19If I have seen ANYONE PERISH FOR LACK OF CLOTHING,
Or ANY POOR MAN WITHOUT COVERING;
20If his [e]heart has not blessed me,
And if he was not WARMED WITH THE FLEECE OF MY SHEEP;
21If I have RAISED MY HAND AGAINST THE FATHERLESS,
When I saw I had help in the gate;
22Then let my arm fall from my shoulder,
Let my arm be torn from the socket.
23For destruction from God is a terror to me,
And because of His magnificence I cannot endure. …” (Job 31:16 – 23, NKJV)
“… The RIGHTEOUS CONSIDERS THE CAUSE OF THE POOR, But the WICKED does NOT UNDERSTAND SUCH KNOWLEDGE. …” (Proverbs 29:7, NKJV)
“… 4Unto the UPRIGHT there arises light in the darkness; He is GRACIOUS, and full of COMPASSION, and righteous. 5A GOOD MAN deals GRACIOUSLY and LENDS; He will guide his affairs with discretion. 6Surely he will never be shaken;
The RIGHTEOUS will be in EVERLASTING REMEMBRANCE. 7He will not be afraid of evil tidings; His heart is steadfast, trusting in the Lord.
8His heart is established; He will not be afraid, Until he sees his desire upon his enemies. 9He has DISPERSED ABROAD, He has GIVEN to the POOR;
HIS RIGHTEOUSNESS ENDURES FOREVER; HIS HORN will be EXALTED with HONOR. 10The WICKED will SEE it and be GRIEVED; He will GNASH his TEETH and melt away; The desire of the wicked shall PERISH. …” (Psalm 119:4 – 10, NKJV)
2) Charity Doctrine in the New Testament Religion
“… 33I have coveted no one’s silver or gold or apparel. 34Yes, you yourselves know THAT THESE HANDS have PROVIDED FOR MY NECESSITIES, and for those who were with me. 35I have shown you in EVERY WAY, BY LABORING LIKE THIS, that YOU MUST SUPPORT THE WEAK. And remember the words of the lord jesus, that He said, ‘It is MORE BLESSED TO GIVE THAN TO RECEIVE. …” – Blessed St. Paul the Great Apostle of Christ (Acts 20:32 – 35, NKJV)
“… 9As it is written:
“He has dispersed abroad,
He has GIVEN TO THE POOR;
His RIGHTEOUSNESS endures FOREVER.”
10Now [g]may He who supplies seed to the sower, and bread for food, [h]supply and multiply the seed you have sown and INCREASE THE FRUITS OF YOUR RIGHTEOUSNESS, 11while you are enriched in everything for ALL LIBERALITY, which causes THANKSGIVING THROUGH US TO GOD. 12For the ADMINISTRATION OF THIS SERVICE not only SUPPLIES THE NEEDS OF THE SAINTS, but also is ABOUNDING THROUGH MANY THANKSGIVINGS TO GOD, 13while, through the PROOF OF THIS MINISTRY, THEY GLORIFY GOD for the OBEDIENCE OF YOUR CONFESSION to the GOSPEL OF CHRIST, and for YOUR LIBERAL SHARING WITH THEM and ALL MEN, …” (2 Corinthians 9:9 – 13, NKJV)
“… 25And behold, a certain lawyer stood up and tested Him, saying, “Teacher, what shall I DO TO INHERIT ETERNAL LIFE?” 26He said to him, “What is WRITTEN IN THE LAW? What is YOUR READING OF IT?” 27So he answered and said, “ ‘You shall LOVE THE LORD YOUR GOD with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your strength, and with all your mind,’ and ‘YOUR NEIGHBOR AS YOURSELF.’ ” 28And He said to him, “You have answered rightly; DO THIS AND YOU WILL LIVE.” 29But he, wanting to justify himself, said to Jesus, “And WHO IS MY NEIGHBOR?” 30Then JESUS ANSWERED and said: “A certain man went down from Jerusalem to Jericho, and fell among thieves, who stripped him of his clothing, wounded him, and departed, leaving him half dead. 31Now by chance a certain priest came down that road. And when he saw him, he passed by on the other side. 32Likewise a Levite, when he arrived at the place, came and looked, and passed by on the other side. 33But a certain Samaritan, as he journeyed, came where he was. And when he saw him, he had COMPASSION. 34So he went to him and BANDAGED HIS WOUNDS, pouring on oil and wine; and he set him on his own animal, brought him to an inn, and TOOK CARE OF HIM. 35On the next day, when he departed, he took out two denarii, gave them to the innkeeper, and said to him, ‘TAKE CARE OF HIM; and WHATEVER MORE YOU SPEND, when I come again, I WILL REPAY YOU.’ 36So which of these three do you think was NEIGHBOR to him who fell among the thieves? 37And he said, “He who SHOWED MERCY on him.”
Then JESUS SAID to him, “GO AND DO LIKEWISE.”…” (Luke 10:25 – 37, NKJV)
Possibly lesser Inheritance in the Kingdom of they hoard:
“… So is he who LAYS UP TREASURE FOR HIMSELF, and is NOT RICH TOWARD GOD. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 12:21, NKJV)
A Warning:
“… 1Come now, YOU RICH, weep and howl for your miseries that are coming upon you! 2Your riches are corrupted, and your garments are moth-eaten. 3Your GOLD and SILVER are corroded, and their corrosion will be a witness against you and will EAT YOUR FLESH LIKE FIRE. You have HEAPED up TREASURE in the LAST DAYS. … 5You have lived on the earth in PLEASURE and LUXURY; you have fattened your hearts as in a DAY of SLAUGHTER. …”
– Blessed St. James the Just, First Bishop of Jerusalem (James 5:1 – 3, 5, NKJV)
Relative Measure comes in where more is given, more is required:
“… Therefore, to him who knows to do good and does not do it, to him it is sin. …” (James 4:17, NKJV)
“… 1And He looked up and saw the rich putting their gifts into the treasury, 2and He saw also a certain poor widow putting in two mites. 3So He [The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ] said, “Truly I say to you that this poor widow has put in MORE THAN ALL; 4for all these out of their abundance have put in offerings for God, but she out of HER POVERTY put in ALL THE LIVELIHOOD THAT SHE HAD. …” (Luke 21:1 – 4, NKJV)
“… 46the master of that servant will come on a day when he is not looking for him, and at an hour when he is not aware, and will cut him in two and appoint him his portion with the unbelievers. 47And that servant who KNEW HIS MASTER’S WILL, and did not prepare himself or do according to his will, shall be BEATEN WITH MANY STRIPES. But he who DID NOT KNOW, yet committed things deserving of stripes, shall be BEATEN WITH FEW. For EVERYONE to whom MUCH IS GIVEN, from him MUCH WILL BE REQUIRED; and to whom MUCH HAS BEEN COMMITTED, of him they WILL ASK THE MORE. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 12:46 – 48, NKJV)
The Only rich Christians who are Saved are those who share much, as this “Command” (not option from God is Revealed as follows):
“… 17COMMAND THOSE WHO ARE RICH in this present age not to be haughty, nor to trust in uncertain riches but in the living God, who gives us richly all things to enjoy. 18Let THEM DO GOOD, that they be RICH IN GOOD WORKS, READY TO GIVE, WILLING TO SHARE, 19storing up for themselves a good foundation for the time to come, that THEY MAY LAY HOLD ON ETERNAL LIFE. …” (1 Timothy 6:17 – 19, NKJV)
Which “Doing Good” is Christ Speaking about? His Own Words Answers only these, Verses:
“… for I was hungry and you gave Me food; I was thirsty and you gave Me drink; I was a STRANGER and you TOOK ME IN; … 38When did we see You a STRANGER and take You in, or naked and clothe You? … 40And the King will answer and say to them, ‘Assuredly, I say to you, inasmuch as you did it to one of the LEAST of these My brethren, you DID it TO ME.’ … 41“Then He will also say to those on the left hand, ‘Depart from Me, you cursed, into the everlasting [Aeonian] fire prepared for the devil and his angels: … 43I was a STRANGER and you did NOT take Me in, … ‘Assuredly, I say to you, inasmuch as you did NOT do it to one of the least of these, you did NOT do it to Me.’ …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 25:35, 38, 40, 41, 43, 45, NKJV)
The Tangible Works of Faith to keep it Alive refer primarily to the Charity Doctrine of Sharing with one another:
“… 14What does it profit, my brethren, if someone says he has faith but does not have works? CAN FAITH SAVE HIM? 15If a brother or sister IS NAKED AND DESTITUTE OF DAILY FOOD, 16and 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? 17Thus also faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead. …” (James 2:14 – 17, NKJV)
The First and Real Pentecostal Church with the Outpouring of His Most Blessed Holy Spirit lived in such Love, Simplicity of Faith and Sharing with one another, Verses:
“… 44Now all who BELIEVED were together, and had ALL THINGS in COMMON, 45and SOLD their POSSESSIONS and goods, and divided them among all, as anyone had need. 46So continuing DAILY with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, they ate their food with gladness and SIMPLICITY of HEART, 47praising God and having favor with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily those who were being saved. …” (Acts 2:44 – 47, NKJV)
“… 32Now the multitude of those who BELIEVED were of ONE HEART and ONE SOUL; neither did anyone say that ANY of the THINGS he POSSESSED was HIS OWN, but they had ALL THINGS in COMMON. … 34Nor was there anyone among them who lacked; for ALL who were POSSESSORS of LANDS or HOUSES SOLD them, and brought the proceeds of the things that were sold, 35and laid them at the apostles’ feet; and they DISTRIBUTED to each as ANYONE had NEED. 36And Joses, who was also named Barnabas by the apostles (which is translated Son of Encouragement), a Levite of the country of Cyprus, 37having land, sold it, and brought the money and laid it at the apostles’ feet. …” (Acts 4:32, 34 – 37, NKJV)
“… 21Therefore lay aside all filthiness and [d]overflow of wickedness, and receive with meekness the implanted word, which is able to save your souls. 22But be DOERS OF THE WORD, and NOT HEARERS ONLY, deceiving yourselves. … 25But he who looks into the perfect law of liberty and continues in it, and is NOT A FORGETFUL HEARER but A DOER OF THE WORK, this one will be BLESSED in what he does. 26If anyone [e]among you thinks he is religious, and does not bridle his tongue but deceives his own heart, this one’s RELIGION IS USELESS. 27PURE AND UNDEFILED RELIGION before God and the Father is this: TO VISIT ORPHANS AND WIDOWS in THEIR TROUBLE, and to KEEP ONESELF UNSPOTTED FROM THE WORLD. …” (James 1:21 – 22, 25 – 27, NKJV)
Charity Doctrine is how we know love itself the Way Christ Laid down His Life for us:
“… 16By this we know love, because He laid down His life for us. And we also OUGHT TO LAY DOWN OUR LIVES FOR THE BRETHREN. 17But WHOEVER HAS THIS WORLD’S GOODS, and SEES HIS BROTHER IN NEED, AND SHUTS UP HIS HEART FROM HIM, HOW DOES THE LOVE OF GOD ABIDE IN HIM? 18My little children, let us NOT LOVE IN WORD or IN TONGUE, BUT IN DEED AND IN TRUTH …” (1 John 3:10 – 18, NKJV)
The Desire of the Apostolic Calling is Preach the Gospel while “remembering the Poor”:
“… THEY (Pillars, Apostles) DESIRED only that we should REMEMBER THE POOR, the very thing which I also was eager to do. …” (Galatians 2:10, NKJV)
A Great and Mysterious Verse by Christ Himself:
“… (39Then the Lord said to him), “Now you Pharisees make the outside of the cup and dish clean, but your INWARD part is full of GREED and WICKEDNESS. 40Foolish ones! Did not He who made the outside make the INSIDE also? 41But rather GIVE ALMS [CHARITY] of SUCH THINGS AS YOU HAVE; then indeed ALL THINGS are CLEAN to you. . …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 11:39 – 41, NKJV)
Peace to you
Deepest Ends of Theology – Love God Love Neighbor
Source Post:
https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=10160526363437784&id=651792783
“… 29Jesus answered him, “The [k]first of all the commandments is: ‘Hear, O Israel, the Lord our God, the Lord is one. 30And you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your mind, and with all your strength.’ [l]This is the first commandment. 31And the second, like it, is this: ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is no other commandment greater than these.” …” (Mark 12:29 – 31, NKJV)
“… 25And behold, a certain lawyer stood up and tested Him, saying, “Teacher, what shall I DO TO INHERIT ETERNAL LIFE?” 26He said to him, “What is WRITTEN IN THE LAW? What is YOUR READING OF IT?” 27So he answered and said, “ ‘You shall LOVE THE LORD YOUR GOD with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your strength, and with all your mind,’ and ‘YOUR NEIGHBOR AS YOURSELF.’ ” 28And He said to him, “You have answered rightly; DO THIS AND YOU WILL LIVE.” 29But he, wanting to justify himself, said to Jesus, “And WHO IS MY NEIGHBOR?” 30Then JESUS ANSWERED and said: “A certain man went down from Jerusalem to Jericho, and fell among thieves, who stripped him of his clothing, wounded him, and departed, leaving him half dead. 31Now by chance a certain priest came down that road. And when he saw him, he passed by on the other side. 32Likewise a Levite, when he arrived at the place, came and looked, and passed by on the other side. 33But a certain Samaritan, as he journeyed, came where he was. And when he saw him, he had COMPASSION. 34So he went to him and BANDAGED HIS WOUNDS, pouring on oil and wine; and he set him on his own animal, brought him to an inn, and TOOK CARE OF HIM. 35On the next day, when he departed, he took out two denarii, gave them to the innkeeper, and said to him, ‘TAKE CARE OF HIM; and WHATEVER MORE YOU SPEND, when I come again, I WILL REPAY YOU.’ 36So which of these three do you think was NEIGHBOR to him who fell among the thieves? 37And he said, “He who SHOWED MERCY on him.”
Then JESUS SAID to him, “GO AND DO LIKEWISE.”…” (Luke 10:25 – 37, NKJV)
“… For all the law is fulfilled in one word, even in this: “You shall love your neighbor as yourself.” …” (Galatians 5:14, NKJV)
“… 8If you really fulfill the royal law according to the Scripture, “You shall love your neighbor as yourself,” you do well; 9but if you [e]show partiality, you commit sin, and are convicted by the law as transgressors. …” (James 2:8 – 9, NKJV)
Yes, helping your own family or friends or same race/same denomination who love you back doesn’t count for credit at all, Verse:
“… But if you love those who love you, what credit is that to you? For even sinners love those who love them. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 6:26, NKJV)
Beyond Credits, the Greatest Love of God is toward those who “… Do His Commandments…”. That’s a reason why we emphasize so much on “His New Testament Commands”:
Human beings usually use a mother’s love or family love to describe the greatest love but the Bible uses the “Friend” Relationship to Describe the Greatest Love of All, Verse:
“… 13Greater love has no one than this, than to lay down one’s life for his friends. 14You are My friends if you do whatever I command you. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (John 15:13 – 14, NKJV)
Peace to you
Sola Scriptura Mystery – the Faithful Church
Bible Verses:
“… 1Let a man so account of us, as of the ministers of Christ, and stewards of the mysteries of God. 2Moreover it is required in stewards, that a man be found faithful. … 6And these things, brethren, I have in a figure transferred to myself and to Apollos for your sakes; THAT YE MIGHT LEARN in us NOT TO THINK OF MEN ABOVE THAT WHICH IS WRITTEN, THAT NO ONE OF YOU BE PUFFED UP FOR ONE AGAINST ANOTHER. 7For WHO MAKETH THEE TO DIFFER FROM ANOTHER? and what hast thou that thou didst not receive? now if thou didst receive it, why dost thou glory, as if thou hadst not received it? … 14I WRITE not these things to shame you, but as my beloved sons I warn you. 15For though ye have ten thousand instructors in Christ, yet have ye NOT MANY FATHERS: for in Christ Jesus I have begotten you through the gospel. 16Wherefore I beseech you, BE YE FOLLOWERS OF ME. 17For this cause have I sent unto you Timotheus, who is my beloved son, and FAITHFUL in the Lord, who shall BRING YOU INTO REMEMBRANCE of my ways which be in Christ, AS I TEACH EVERY WHERE IN EVERY CHURCH. 18Now some are puffed up, as though I would not come to you. …” (1 Corinthians 4:1 – 2, 6 – 7, 14 – 18, KJV)
Blessed Apostle St. Paul teaches the Following:
i. Don’t go beyond what’s Written
“… THAT YE MIGHT LEARN in us NOT TO THINK OF MEN ABOVE THAT WHICH IS WRITTEN …” (1 Corinthians 4:6, KJV)
ii. The Faithful Christians do not convert people into believing or practising things which are “not” Written in New Testament Verses; yes, they do “not” differ based on these Written Rules:
“… 2Moreover it is required in stewards, that a man be found faithful. … 6And these things, brethren, I have in a figure transferred to myself and to Apollos for your sakes; THAT YE MIGHT LEARN in us NOT TO THINK OF MEN ABOVE THAT WHICH IS WRITTEN, THAT NO ONE OF YOU BE PUFFED UP FOR ONE AGAINST ANOTHER. 7For WHO MAKETH THEE TO DIFFER FROM ANOTHER? …” (1 Corinthians 4:2, 6, NKJV)
iii. Faithful Preaching of the Gospel Preaches Obedience to all these New Testament Verses in “every Church everywhere”
“… 16Wherefore I beseech you, BE YE FOLLOWERS OF ME. 17For this cause have I sent unto you Timotheus, who is my beloved son, and FAITHFUL in the Lord, who shall BRING YOU INTO REMEMBRANCE of my ways which be in Christ, AS I TEACH EVERY WHERE IN EVERY CHURCH. 18Now some are puffed up, as though I would not come to you. …” (1 Corinthians 4:16 – 18, NKJV)
Context: God’s Rules which he gave not only to the Corinthian Church or Culture but to EVERY CHURCH EVERYWHERE as only the FAITHFUL Christians will Remind others of these:
“… 17For this cause have I sent unto you Timotheus, who is my beloved son, and FAITHFUL in the Lord, who shall BRING YOU INTO REMEMBRANCE of my ways which be in Christ, AS I TEACH EVERY WHERE IN EVERY CHURCH. …” (1 Corinthians 4:17, KJV)
This is fulfilling the “Great Commission” in regards to the aspect of “obeying or observing all Christ has Commanded” the Apostles and not converting in baptism only, Verses:
“… For Christ did not send me to baptize, but to preach the gospel, …” (1 Corinthians 1:17, NKJV)
“… 18And Jesus came and spoke to them, saying, “All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. 19Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20TEACHING THEM TO OBSERVE ALL THINGS THAT I HAVE COMMANDED YOU; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” Amen. …” (Matthew 28:18 – 20, NKJV)
“… that you may be MINDFUL OF THE WORDS which were spoken before by the holy prophets, and of the COMMANDMENT OF US, THE APOSTLES of the Lord and Savior, …” (2 Peter 3:2, NKJV)
Today’s Example of ‘… Going beyond what is Written…’ : Roman Catholics pray to Virgin Mary (“no” Bible Verse Speaks of this) while some modern Protestants don’t teach their women to wear a veil when praying (1 Corinthians 11:1 – 16) or to keep silent in the churches (1 Corinthians 14:34) or make women pastors who have authority over men (1 Timothy 2:12) or speak in tongues in public at Church by beyond the at most three persons taking turns or in order with interpreter as specified by Holy Scripture(1 Corinthians 14:1 – 32) or ignore all these other “written New Testament Commands of the Lord” (1 Corinthians 14:37).
Blessed are the Churches which keep all these Commands of the Lord as they’re obeying 1 Corinthians 4:6 to “not” be “Divisive” based on practicing things which are “not” Written. Yes, God doesn’t Author the Parts of “Confusion” which men do in the midst of doing some right things, Verses:
“… 33For God is not the author of [i]confusion but of peace, as in all the churches of the saints. 34Let [j]your women keep silent in the churches, for they are not permitted to speak; but they are to be submissive, as the law also says. 35And if they want to learn something, let them ask their own husbands at home; for it is shameful for women to speak in church. 36Or did the word of God come originally from you? Or was it you only that it reached? 37If anyone thinks himself to be a prophet or spiritual, let him acknowledge that the things which I write to you are the commandments of the Lord. 38But [k]if anyone is ignorant, let him be ignorant. 39Therefore, brethren, desire earnestly to prophesy, and do not forbid to speak with tongues. 40Let all things be done decently and in order. …” (1 Corinthians 14:33 – 40, NKJV)
Example:
“… 10but, which is proper for women professing godliness, with good works. 11Let a woman learn in silence with all submission. 12And I do not permit a woman to teach or to have authority over a man, but to be in silence. …” (1 Timothy 2:10 – 12, NKJV)
If a woman says that 1 Corinthians 14:34 or 1 Timothy 2:12 refers to the Context of marriage only where the woman is not allowed to exercise authority over their husband, that’s so illogical because: If God wanted to Allow women to take such positions of authority, He must allow them to do it over their husbands first starting at home. So even going by the logic (for argument’s sake), it doesn’t make sense because how can God allow a woman to Teach/have Authority over an outside man but not over her own husband? Christian history even with the Reformation Founders affirm that these ought to be upheld and only in Modern times they have gone beyond what’s written. Women are allowed to preach the Gospel (as early church leaders taught likewise) but “not” take positions of Spiritual Leadership whilst doing so as the Testimony of Christ and His Apostles also demonstrate in the Bible.
Did you notice in 1 Timothy 2:10 above whilst prohibiting women from having authority or teaching over men in 1 Timothy 2:12, Apostle St. Paul clearly mentions that women ought to serve in doing the “GOOD WORKS” part? Here are those Verses again in case you missed it:
“… 9in like manner also, that the women adorn themselves in modest apparel, with propriety and [e]moderation, not with braided hair or gold or pearls or costly clothing, 10but, which is proper for women professing godliness, WITH GOOD WORKS. 11Let a woman learn in silence with all submission. 12And I DO NOT permit A WOMAN to TEACH OR TO HAVE AUTHORITY OVER A MAN, but to be in silence. …” (1 Timothy 2:9 – 12, NKJV)
Claiming that many people are saved via Women pastor’s ministry does “not” justify that these Bible Verses don’t apply. Are your works Greater than the Word of God or do they save you? Isn’t obedience better than Sacrifice (1 Samuel 15:22)? Also more people are converted into Christianity via prayers to Virgin Mary as Christian History till today testified that almost 60% of current Christianity today itself is Roman Catholic / Orthodox Versions which pray to Virgin Mary. I still believe that God can Save any Christian who errs on these aspects but you risk “losing your greater reward” if you did it as per Bible Verses. It’s “Possible” based on this Verse but a “loss of Reward” is clearly implied:
“… Let NO ONE CHEAT YOU of YOUR REWARD, taking delight in false humility and WORSHIP OF ANGELS, intruding into those things which he has not seen, vainly puffed up by his fleshly mind, …” (Colossians 2:18, NKJV)
The highest heavenly rewards are for those who obey “New Testament Rules”:
“… And also if anyone competes in athletics, he is NOT CROWNED unless HE COMPETES ACCORDING TO THE RULES. …” (2 Timothy 2:5, NKJV)
Please take note that “Worshipping Angels” is worse than “Praying to Angels”. But even then the loss described in Verse above is ‘not necessarily Salvation’ but a ‘LOSS of [Heavenly] REWARD’. I do not see that the phrase of losing a reward is losing one’s Salvation. I could be wrong but so far I see the Verse implying a possible Salvation but a certain loss of Reward for “Worshipping Angels”.
The fact that the Bible specifies Gender proves that these are Gender-Sensitive commands and that no more male-female applies in the Context of inheriting the Kingdom of God (Galatians 3) which is not now on earth yet where these are to be obeyed as Apostle St. Paul himself Wrote both Verses and we accept both (please notice that these are “not’ culture sensitive commands as man made Human culture has no value with God); those who obey what is “Written” will be “Praised”, Verses:
“… 1 IMITATE ME, just as I also IMITATE CHRIST. 2Now I PRAISE YOU, brethren, that you remember me in all things and KEEP THE TRADITIONS just as I delivered them to you. … 16But if anyone seems to be contentious, we have no such custom, nor do the churches of God. … ” (1 Corinthians 11:1 – 2, 11:16, NKJV)
“… Therefore, brethren, STAND FAST and HOLD the TRADITIONS which you were TAUGHT, whether by WORD or our EPISTLE. …” (2 Thessalonians 2:15, NKJV)
Those who ignore God’s New Testament Commands referring to what Apostle St. Paul “WROTE” (i.e. the Verses which we quoted earlier too) will be ignored the same way they ignored Scripture. I wonder that means in Verses below and it sounds serious and so let’s not fall into God’s Judgment for this:
“… 36Or did the word of God originate with you? Or are you the only people it has reached? 37If anyone thinks they are a PROPHET or otherwise GIFTED BY THE SPIRIT, let them ACKNOWLEDGE that what I am WRITING to you is the LORD’S COMMAND. 38But IF ANYONE IGNORES THIS, THEY WILL THEMSELVES BE IGNORED …” (1 Corinthians 14:36 – 38, NIV)
In fact, the Bible allows us to keep away from Churches if they don’t practice especially these “Written” Traditions on Apostle St. Paul’s letters, Verses:
“… 6But we COMMAND you, brethren, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that you withdraw from every brother who walks disorderly and NOT ACCORDING TO THE TRADITION which [a]he received from us. 7For you yourselves know how you ought to follow us, for we were not disorderly among you . …14And IF ANYONE DOES NOT OBEY OUR WORD IN THIS [D]EPISTLE, note that person and DO NOT KEEP COMPANY WITH HIM, that he may be ashamed. 15Yet do not count him as an enemy, but [e]admonish him as a brother. …” (2 Thessalonians 3:6 – 7, 14 – 15, NKJV)
Yes, the “Churches of God” (referring not to the Corinthian Church only but all Churches do “not” have any other alternate Culture/Customs), Verse:
“… 16But if anyone seems to be contentious, we have no such custom, nor do the churches of God. …” (1 Corinthians 11:16, NKJV)
If these observances are “not” important, these “New Testament Bible Verses” won’t be Written.
I am “not” sure who will be rejected or who will be Saved for doing Lawlessness against these Verses below but one thing I know is that by keeping to these Written New Testament Verses and not going beyond it as 1 Corinthians 4:6 Testifies regarding “God’s Rules”, it’s not just the Safest Way but the “Praised Way” as the Verses we have Quoted clearly Prove as “it is Written”:
“… 14Because narrow is the gate and difficult is the way which leads to life, and there are few who find it. … 21“Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who DOES THE WILL OF MY FATHER in heaven. 22MANY will say to Me in that day, ‘Lord, Lord, have we NOT PROPHESIED in Your name, CAST OUT DEMONS in Your name, and DONE MANY WONDERS in Your name?’ 23And then I will declare to them, ‘I never knew you; depart from Me, YOU WHO PRACTICE LAWLESSNESS!’ … 24“Therefore WHOEVER HEARS THESE SAYINGS OF MINE, and DOES THEM, I will liken him to a WISE MAN who BUILT HIS HOUSE ON THE ROCK: …” – Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 7:14, 21 – 23, 24, NKJV)
May God have Mercy on whomever He Wills. Sounds difficult? That’s exactly how the Narrow Path is Described in Matthew 7:14 above and a Christianity which converts MANY by “Prophesying”, “Casting out of Demons” and “Miracles” is Denied above in the End despite MANY converts into its ‘… Easy faith with Lawlessness …’ . Why take the risk?
Here’s an interesting fact which very few Christians have noticed. The “Strong Delusion” God Sends during the End Times toward those who are “Lawless” will include those who refuse to “obey/keep the Written & Verbal Traditions” which Blessed Apostle St. Paul Delivered:
“… 11And for this reason GOD WILL SEND THEM STRONG DELUSION, that THEY SHOULD BELIEVE THE LIE, 12that they all may be condemned who did not believe the truth but had pleasure in unrighteousness. … 14to which He called you by OUR GOSPEL, for the obtaining of the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ. 15Therefore, brethren, STAND FAST and HOLD THE TRADITIONS which you were taught, whether BY WORD OR OUR [H]EPISTLE. …” – Blessed St. Paul the Great and Legendary Apostle of Christ Himself (2 Thessalonians 2:11 – 12, 14 – 15, NKJV)
Regarding traditions which are “not” Written in the New Testament Verses but exist according to 2 Thessalonians 2:15 above, we don’t judge anyone because 1 Corinthians 4:6 teaches obeying “Sola Scriptura” only to “not” be the cause of factions or divisions or schisms in Christianity.
Note: St. Clement of Rome or the other Church Fathers I quote are usually not Roman Catholic. For example they do “not” have one prayer to Virgin Mary or equivalent. You can research this and see. Yes, I am not Catholic either. This is a true Testimony of First Christianity by St. Clement or others whom I quote. Each claim made here has “Bible Verses” to it and so it’s purely Sola Scriptura where for example in previous posts, I quote St. Clement of Rome’s to help us understand these Bible Verses accurately as First Apostolic Christianity did. It’s best to follow the Faith First Delivered.
Peace to you
The Beautiful God of the Poor – Saviour KING
Scenario: A father prayed in tears for the Repentance and Salvation of his son but it never came to pass. Why? Because he was too busy trying to save his son and his son never bothered about helping or saving others and thus his son reaped destruction in the end.
Verse:
“… 13He that stops his ears from hearing the poor, himself also shall cry, and there shall be none to hear him. …” (Proverbs 21:13, NKJV)
Biblical Logic: If you never cared for the poor or made any efforts to help them even a little, why should God bother about Saving your family or children?
Biblical Promise: He who cares for the poor will be heard by God while those who ignore the poor will also cry out one day but will never be answered if not on earth in Hell for sure as the Verse below Reveals further:
“… The rich man also died and was buried. 23And being in torments in Hades, he lifted up his eyes and saw Abraham afar off, and Lazarus in his bosom. 24“Then he cried and said, ‘Father Abraham, have mercy on me, and send Lazarus that he may dip the tip of his finger in water and cool my tongue; for I am tormented in this flame.’ 25But Abraham said, ‘Son, remember that in your lifetime you received your good things, and likewise Lazarus evil things; but now he is comforted and you are tormented. 26And besides all this, between us and you there is a great gulf fixed, so that those who want to pass from here to you cannot, nor can those from there pass to us.’ …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 16:22 – 26, NKJV)
A Definite Promise for the Poor:
“… This poor man cried out, and the LORD heard him, And saved him out of all his troubles. …” (Psalm 34:6, NKJV)
It doesn’t mean that it needs to be Fulfilled on Earth as Christ Revealed in that same story in Luke 16 that though the beggar Lazarus died Suffering on earth, God sent Angels to deliver him in the “Spirit World”, Verses:
“… 19“There was a certain rich man who was clothed in purple and fine linen and [h]fared sumptuously every day. 20But there was a certain beggar named Lazarus, full of sores, who was laid at his gate, 21desiring to be fed with [i]the crumbs which fell from the rich man’s table. Moreover the dogs came and licked his sores. 22So it was that the beggar died, and was carried by the angels to Abraham’s bosom. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 16:19 – 22, NKJV)
Conclusion
We cannot save everyone due to our weaknesses and limits. Have we at least tried letting God saving one person in our life WHO IS NOT OUR BLOOD FAMILY especially from financial difficulty which is one of the grievous plagues men face? Yes, helping your own family who love you back doesn’t count for credit at all, Verse:
“… But if you love those who love you, what credit is that to you? For even sinners love those who love them. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 6:26, NKJV)
In the end, in the Spirit World we will reap our own generosity or selfishness.
There may be a Special Mercy for the Poor for they’re unable to do the Commands of God due to relative measure of their situation (e.g. Luke 21:1 – 4) who may be “Saved”, Verses:
“… 21So that servant came and reported these things to his master. Then the master of the house, being angry, said to his servant, ‘Go out quickly into the STREETS and LANES of the city, and bring in here the POOR and the MAIMED and the LAME and the BLIND.’ 22And the servant said, ‘Master, it is done as you commanded, and still THERE IS ROOM.’ 23Then the master said to the servant, ‘Go out into the HIGHWAYS and HEDGES, and COMPEL THEM to COME IN, that MY HOUSE MAY BE FILLED. 24For I say to you that NONE of those men who were INVITED shall taste MY SUPPER.’ ” …” (Luke 14:21 – 24, NKJV)
Please notice the word “Poor”, “maimed” and “lame” in Verses above where Christ Spoke this Parable just after asking a Rich Pharisee to “Give Food” to the “Poor” to be “Repaid at the Resurrection of the Just”, Verses:
“…12Then He also said to him who invited Him, “When you give a dinner or a supper, do not ask your friends, your brothers, your relatives, NOR RICH NEIGHBORS, lest they also invite you back, and you be repaid. 13But when you give a feast, INVITE the POOR, THE MAIMED, THE LAME, THE BLIND. 14And you will be BLESSED, because they cannot repay you; for you shall be REPAID at the RESURRECTION OF THE JUST.” …” (Luke 14:12 – 14, NKJV)
This means that the “POOR, MAIMED and LAME” are the same ones mentioned in Luke 14:12 – 14 and Luke 12:21 – 24 where allegorical meanings are possible but the primary meaning is most likely true as even the Topic is about those who Help the Poor Vs those who waste their money helping the rich or enjoy life in ”Prosperity pursuits” say by over feasting with that money as Christ Explains in Luke 14:12 – 14. Can you see it?
Looks like Christ’s Own Most Blessed Words only point to the “Poor/Equivalent” and “those who help them” to be “in His Kingdom”. Can you see it? This is why the best teaching a parent must do as a Christian is to educate their children to do some Charity Works or Equivalent helping toward the Poor in their vicinity.
In short, the fastest ticket to hell is to live a life by manipulating the situation of the poor to enrich oneself + not help the poor.
Peace to you
Book of Life Mystery
Is our Name in the “Book of Life”? – First Christianity Tale of At. Clement of Rome
1) Who is he?
St. Clement of Rome is not Roman Catholic. For example he does “not” have one prayer to Virgin Mary or equivalent. I am not Catholic either. This is a true Testimony of First Christianity by him. Each claim made here has “Bible Verses” to it and so it’s purely Sola Scriptura where St. Clement of Rome’s quotes help us understand these Bible Verses accurately as First Apostolic Christianity did.
From antiquity he has been believed to be the one whom Blessed Apostle St. Paul mentions in Verse below:
“… And I urge you also, true companion, help these women who labored with me in the gospel, with CLEMENT ALSO, and the rest of my fellow workers, WHOSE NAMES are in the BOOK OF LIFE. …” (Philippians 4:3, NKJV)
He is one of the very few who has heard before his death that his name is on the “Book of Life”.
2) Did he Preach Justification by Faith? Yes:
“… All these, therefore, were highly honoured, and made great, not for their own sake, or for their own works, or for the righteousness which they wrought, but through the OPERATION OF HIS WILL. And we, too, being called by His will in Christ Jesus, are not justified by ourselves, nor by our own wisdom, or understanding, or godliness, or works which we have wrought in holiness of heart; but BY THAT FAITH through which, from the beginning, Almighty God has JUSTIFIED ALL MEN; to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen. …” – Blessed St. Clement of Rome, an Apostolic Father being a direct Disciple of the Blessed Apostle St. Peter (c.35 AD – c. 99 AD, 1 Clement, Chapter 32)
Source:
http://www.earlychristianwritings.com/text/1clement-roberts.html
“… Knowing that a man is not justified by the works of the law, but by the FAITH OF JESUS CHRIST, even WE HAVE BELIEVED IN JESUS CHRIST, that we might be JUSTIFIED BY THE FAITH OF CHRIST, and not by the works of the law: for by the works of the law shall no flesh be justified. …” (Galatians 2:16, KJV)
3) Are we Justified by our Good Works? Yes also:
“… Let us cleave, then, to those to whom grace has been given by God. Let us clothe ourselves with concord and humility, EVER EXERCISING SELF-CONTROL, standing far off from all whispering and evil-speaking, BEING JUSTIFIED BY OUR WORKS, and NOT OUR WORDS. For [the Scripture] says, “He that speaks much, shall also hear much in answer. And does he that is ready in speech deem himself righteous? Blessed is he that is born of woman, who lives but a short time: be not given to much speaking.” Let our praise be in God, and not of ourselves; for God hates those who commend themselves. Let TESTIMONY TO OUR GOOD DEEDS be BORNE BY OTHERS, as it was in the case of our righteous forefathers. Boldness, and arrogance, and audacity belong to those that are accursed of God; but moderation, humility, and meekness to such as are blessed by Him …” – Blessed St. Clement of Rome, an Apostolic Father being a direct Disciple of the Blessed Apostle St. Peter (c.35 AD – c. 99 AD, 1 Clement, Chapter 32)
Source:
http://www.earlychristianwritings.com/text/1clement-roberts.html
“… (for not the hearers of the law are just in the sight of God, but the DOERS OF THE LAW will be JUSTIFIED; …” (Romans 2:13, NKJV)
Which Work? Blessed Apostle St. James Writes:
“… 21Therefore lay aside all filthiness and [d]overflow of wickedness, and receive with meekness the implanted word, which is able to save your souls. 22But be DOERS OF THE WORD, and NOT HEARERS ONLY, deceiving yourselves. … 25But he who looks into the perfect law of liberty and continues in it, and is NOT A FORGETFUL HEARER but A DOER OF THE WORK, this one will be BLESSED in what he does. 26If anyone [e]among you thinks he is religious, and does not bridle his tongue but deceives his own heart, this one’s RELIGION IS USELESS. 27PURE AND UNDEFILED RELIGION before God and the Father is this: TO VISIT ORPHANS AND WIDOWS in THEIR TROUBLE, and to KEEP ONESELF UNSPOTTED FROM THE WORLD. …” (James 1:21 – 22, 25 – 27, NKJV)
Isn’t it fascinating that the only type of Good Work Apostle St. James explicitly mentions when Speaking of the Context of be “… Doers of the Word …” Explicitly refers to “… VISIT ORPHANS AND WIDOWS in THEIR TROUBLE, and to KEEP ONESELF UNSPOTTED FROM THE WORLD. …”. Can you see it? He gives no other example in these Verses meaning that these are the Primary Acts, right?
Conclusion – How can we be “Justified by faith and works” at the same time? Does St. Clement of Rome contradict himself?
The Source of Faith and Works is of God and knowing this alone chips off self – righteousness and both are the “Will of God” as St. Clement of Rome writes above:
“… All these, therefore, were highly honoured, and made great, not for their own sake, or for their own works, or for the righteousness which they wrought, but THROUGH THE OPERATION OF HIS WILL. …” – Blessed St. Clement of Rome, an Apostolic Father being a direct Disciple of the Blessed Apostle St. Peter (c.35 AD – c. 99 AD, 1 Clement, Chapter 32)
Source:
http://www.earlychristianwritings.com/text/1clement-roberts.html
Since only those who “do the Will of the Father” are “not” denied in Matthew 7:18 – 23 as being “Lawless”, At. Clement of Rome exhorts that those saved ones will do “Good Works” likewise by His Will:
“… WHAT SHALL WE DO, then, brethren? Shall we become SLOTHFUL IN WELL-DOING, and cease from the PRACTICE OF LOVE? GOD FORBID that any such course should be followed by us! But rather let us HASTEN WITH ALL ENERGY AND READINESS of mind TO PERFORM EVERY GOOD WORK. For the Creator and Lord of all Himself rejoices in His works. … For thus says God: “Let us MAKE MAN IN OUR IMAGE, and after Our likeness. So God made man; male and female He created them.” Having thus finished all these things, He approved them, and blessed them, and said, “INCREASE AND MULTIPLY.” We see, then, how ALL RIGHTEOUS MEN have been ADORNED WITH GOOD WORKS, and how the Lord Himself, adorning Himself with His works, rejoiced. Having therefore such an example, let us without delay ACCEDE TO HIS WILL, and LET US WORK the WORK OF RIGHTEOUSNESS with OUR WHOLE STRENGTH …” – Blessed St. Clement of Rome, an Apostolic Father being a direct Disciple of the Blessed Apostle St. Peter (c.35 AD – c. 99 AD, 1 Clement, Chapter 33)
Source:
http://www.earlychristianwritings.com/text/1clement-roberts.html
Firstly, please notice carefully that St. Clement of Rome clearly links the famous verse of “… Increase and Multiply…” in the Context of “Creation of Man” to refer to “God’s Will” to produce “Righteous Men who are full of GOOD WORKS…” in his writing above. This means that if we do “not” allow God to use us to Fulfil His Will, it will be most evident in the lack of Good Works. This is not his own opinion as the Bible Verses below in full describes Salvation by faith but the Purpose of God Creating Man is to Produce those who do “GOOD WORKS” and they’re PREDESTINED to do so agreeing beautifully to St. Clement’s quote above when compared:
“… 8For by GRACE you have been SAVED THROUGH FAITH, and that NOT OF YOURSELVES; it is the GIFT OF GOD, 9NOT OF WORKS, lest anyone should boast. 10For we are His workmanship, CREATED IN CHRIST JESUS for GOOD WORKS, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them. …” (Ephesians 2:8 – 10, NKJV)
Can you see it?
To be full of the Most Blessed Holy Spirit of Good is to be “content” (and not desiring more & more wealth), obeying “His Doctrine” and is most evident by an “insatiable desire to do Good Works” according to St. Clement of Rome quoting 2 Timothy 3:17’s “… that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for EVERY GOOD WORK. …” (NKJV) to refer to “any act of kindness” as follows:
“… CONTENT WITH THE PROVISION WHICH GOD had made for you, and carefully attending to His words, you were inwardly filled with HIS DOCTRINE, and His sufferings were before your eyes. Thus a profound and abundant peace was given to you all, and you had an INSATIABLE DESIRE FOR DOING GOOD, while a FULL OUTPOURING OF THE HOLY SPIRIT was upon you all. … You never grudged ANY ACT OF KINDNESS, being “READY TO EVERY GOOD WORK.” (2 Timothy 3:17) Adorned by a THOROUGHLY VIRTUOUS AND RELIGIOUS LIFE, you did all things in the fear of God. The commandments and ordinances of the Lord were written upon the tablets of your hearts. …” – Blessed St. Clement of Rome, an Apostolic Father being a direct Disciple of the Blessed Apostle St. Peter (c.35 AD – c. 99 AD, 1 Clement, Chapter 2)
Source:
http://www.earlychristianwritings.com/text/1clement-roberts.html
Which is the Best Church?
Not all righteous men are found inside the Church nor all who are appointed as Bishops/Pastors are good either as St. Clement Reveals below:
“… We are of opinion, therefore, that those appointed by them, or afterwards by other eminent men, with the consent of the whole Church, and who have blame-lessly served the flock of Christ in a humble, peaceable, and disinterested spirit, and have for a long time possessed the good opinion of all, cannot be justly dismissed from the ministry. FOR OUR SIN WILL NOT BE SMALL, if we eject from the episcopate those who have blamelessly and holily fulfilled its duties. Blessed are those presbyters who, having finished their course before now, have obtained a fruitful and perfect departure [from this world]; for they have no fear lest any one deprive them of the place now appointed them. But WE SEE THAT YOU HAVE REMOVED SOME MEN OF EXCELLENT BEHAVIOUR FROM THE MINISTRY, WHICH THEY FULFILLED BLAMELESSLY and WITH HONOUR. Ye are fond of contention, brethren, and FULL OF ZEAL ABOUT THINGS which DO NOT PERTAIN TO SALVATION. LOOK CAREFULLY INTO THE SCRIPTURES, which are the TRUE UTTERANCES OF THE HOLY SPIRIT. Observe that nothing of an unjust or counterfeit character is written in them. …” – Blessed St. Clement of Rome, an Apostolic Father being a direct Disciple of the Blessed Apostle St. Peter (c.35 AD – c. 99 AD, 1 Clement, Chapter 44 – 45)
Source:
http://www.earlychristianwritings.com/text/1clement-roberts.html
Can you understand it? If you read especially the CAPITALIZED parts above it’s easy to see that St. Clement of Rome mentions that it’s not uncommon for true Godly men be evicted out of the Church’s Ministry and support is given instead to Pastors/Leaders who are full of zeal to talk about “worldly things” or “speak against Bible Verses to support human culture or such vanities”. So he exhorts the True Believers to stick to what is Written in Holy Scripture (1 Corinthians 14:37, 2 Peter 3:2) and not waste time on things that do “not” pertain to Salvation such as the ‘Prosperity Gospel’ , ‘Human Culture’ and even whether the ‘earth is Spherical/Flat’ etc.
Please note this quote from the above which puts a Great Sin if we reject truly worthy leaders whom the local Church ought to have supported and instead of the Church focused instead also on matters which are not important to Salvation as St. Clement Warns, “… FOR OUR SIN WILL NOT BE SMALL, if we eject from the episcopate those who have blamelessly and holily fulfilled its duties. … But WE SEE THAT YOU HAVE REMOVED SOME MEN OF EXCELLENT BEHAVIOUR FROM THE MINISTRY, WHICH THEY FULFILLED BLAMELESSLY and WITH HONOUR. Ye are fond of contention, brethren, and FULL OF ZEAL ABOUT THINGS which DO NOT PERTAIN TO SALVATION. …”.
So what happened to those ‘righteous men’ who were cast off from their own Church or not supported to serve in Ministry?
The “Prophecy” below may explain their way which is by St. Clement of Rome himself:
“… Who then among you is NOBLE-MINDED? who compassionate? who FULL OF LOVE? Let him declare, “IF ON MY ACCOUNT SEDITION and DISAGREEMENT AND SCHISMS HAVE ARISEN, I WILL DEPART, I WILL GO AWAY whithersoever you desire, and I WILL DO WHATEVER THE MAJORITY COMMANDS; only let the flock of Christ live on terms of peace with the presbyters set over it.” HE THAT ACTS THUS SHALL PROCURE TO HIMSELF GREAT GLORY IN THE LORD; and EVERY PLACE WILL WELCOME HIM. For “the earth is the Lord’s, and the fulness thereof.” These things they WHO LIVE A GODLY LIFE, that is NEVER TO BE REPENTED OF, BOTH HAVE DONE AND ALWAYS WILL DO. … ” – Blessed St. Clement of Rome, an Apostolic Father being a direct Disciple of the Blessed Apostle St. Peter (c.35 AD – c. 99 AD, 1 Clement Chapter 54)
Source:
http://www.earlychristianwritings.com/text/1clement-roberts.html
Since St. Clement of Rome’s name is surely in the “Book of Life” (especially since Philippians 4:3 points to it whilst he was still living), I would prefer to Believe, Preach and do the best I can do Practice his quotes which makes the Bible Verses quoted to be more accurately understood.
Here’s a Fascinating Secret:
St. Clement of Rome himself quotes the Context of Isaiah 1:18 (the Christian’s favourite Verse of “… though your sins are like crimson, they will be white as snow …”, Sanctification Doctrine) to be linked to the Direct Condition of “… Ceasing to do evil … Learning to do Good… Taking Care of Orphans and Widows …” as God Inspired Prophet Isaiah too regarding this True Doctrine of Repentance with Sanctification in his quote below:
“… if you TURN to Me with YOUR WHOLE HEART, and say, Father! I will listen to you, as to a holy people.” And in another place He says: “WASH, and BECOME CLEAN; put away the wickedness of your souls from before my eyes; CEASE FROM YOUR EVIL WAYS, and LEARN TO DO WELL; seek out judgment, deliver the oppressed, JUDGE THE FATHERLESS, and SEE THAT JUSTICE IS DONE TO THE WIDOW; and come, and let us reason together. He declares, “THOUGH YOUR SINS BE LIKE CRIMSON, I WILL MAKE THEM WHITE AS SNOW; THOUGH THEY BE LIKE SCARLET, I WILL WHITEN THEM LIKE WOOL. And IF YOU ARE WILLING AND OBEY ME, you shall eat the good of the land; but if you refuse, and will not listen to Me, the sword shall devour you, for the mouth of the Lord has spoken these things.” [Isaiah 1:16 – 20] Desiring, therefore, that all His beloved should be PARTAKERS OF REPENTANCE, He has, by His ALMIGHTY WILL, ESTABLISHED [THESE DECLARATIONS]. …” – Blessed St. Clement of Rome, an Apostolic Father being a direct Disciple of the Blessed Apostle St. Peter (c.35 AD – c. 99 AD, 1 Clement Chapter 8)
Source:
http://www.earlychristianwritings.com/text/1clement-roberts.html
Please notice the first line which reads “… if you turn to me with your whole heart …” involves doing this Context of ‘… taking care of widows/orphans, ceasing to do evil and learning to do Good …’ which may be a way to fulfil the Mysterious Verse below as St. Clement of Rome links this Context:
“… And you will seek Me and find Me, when you search for Me with all your heart. …” (Jeremiah 29:13, NKJV)
In other words, St. Clement of Rome is pointing to these works as the “Fruits of Repentance”:
“… PARTAKERS OF REPENTANCE, He has, by His ALMIGHTY WILL, ESTABLISHED [THESE DECLARATIONS]. …” referring to these Works of Sanctification “… CEASE FROM YOUR EVIL WAYS, and LEARN TO DO WELL; seek out judgment, deliver the oppressed, JUDGE THE FATHERLESS, and SEE THAT JUSTICE IS DONE TO THE WIDOW …”– St. Clement of Rome (above, paraphrased)
Can you see it?
Isn’t it amazing that St. John the Baptist’s Definition of the “Fruits of Repentance” is likewise ‘… Good Works primarily referring to SHARING FOOD/CLOTHES…’ , be CONTENT WITH YOUR WAGES (so no faith for Wealth as the Prosperity Gospel errs) and “cease to do evil” (e.g. don’t extort others or don’t take more than what’s appointed for you etc.), To quote:
“… 7Then he said to the multitudes that came out to be baptized by him, “Brood of vipers! Who warned you to flee from the wrath to come? 8Therefore bear FRUITS WORTHY OF REPENTANCE, and do not begin 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. 9And 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.” 10So the people asked him, saying, “What shall we do then?” 11He answered and said to them, “HE WHO HAS TWO TUNICS, let him GIVE TO HIM WHO HAS NONE; and HE WHO HAS FOOD, LET HIM DO LIKEWISE.” 12Then tax collectors also came to be baptized, and said to him, “Teacher, what shall we do?” 13And he said to them, “COLLECT NO MORE THAN WHAT IS APPOINTED FOR YOU.” 14Likewise the soldiers asked him, saying, “And what shall we do?” So he said to them, “DO NOT INTIMIDATE ANYONE or ACCUSE FALSELY, and BE CONTENT WITH YOUR WAGES. …” (Luke 3:7 – 14, NKJV)
The New Covenant itself has the Purpose of Producing True Christians with GOOD WORKS as per Verses below (where Covenant means, God Will ensure those who are Saved to do it according to the measure of faith, Romans 12:3 and relative measure given in life, Luke 21:1 – 4):
“… 20Now the God of peace, that brought again from the dead our LORD JESUS, that great shepherd of the sheep, through the BLOOD of the EVERLASTING COVENANT 21MAKE YOU PERFECT in EVERY GOOD WORK to DO HIS WILL, working in you that which is WELL PLEASING in his sight, through Jesus Christ; to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen. …” (Hebrews 13:20 – 21, KJV)
These aspects are discussed further in link below:
Doctrine of Sanctification – Mystery of Washing away of Sins
https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=10160515098547784&id=651792783
Peace to you
Doctrine of Sanctification – Mystery of Washing away of Sins
The Bible Verse in Isaiah 1:18 (image too) describes the ‘Washing Away of Sins’.
However not many Christians know that this is a “Conditional Promise” provided if we “repent and do Good especially Charity Works such as heed the need of the orphans and widows” which can only be seen if we quote these Verses in Full as God Speaks below:
“… 16“WASH YOURSELVES, MAKE YOURSELVES CLEAN;
Put away the evil of your doings from before My eyes.
CEASE TO DO EVIL,
17Learn to DO GOOD;
Seek justice,
Rebuke [i]the oppressor;
[j]DEFEND THE FATHERLESS,
PLEAD FOR THE WIDOW.
18“Come now, and let us reason together,”
Says the Lord,
“Though YOUR SINS ARE LIKE SCARLET,
They shall be as WHITE AS SNOW;
Though they are RED LIKE CRIMSON,
They shall BE AS WOOL.
19IF YOU ARE WILLING AND OBEDIENT,
You shall eat the good of the land;
20But if you refuse and rebel,
You shall be devoured by the sword”;
For the MOUTH OF THE LORD HAS SPOKEN. …” (Isaiah 1:16 – 20, NKJV)
The Septuagint reads the same (link below):
https://biblehub.com/sep/isaiah/1.htm
Facts from above:
i. Promise of Washing of Sins phrases
“… 16“WASH YOURSELVES, MAKE YOURSELVES CLEAN; … Though YOUR SINS ARE LIKE SCARLET,
They shall be as WHITE AS SNOW;
Though they are RED LIKE CRIMSON,
They shall BE AS WOOL. …”
ii. Conditional Promise based on “Repentance” first where it doesn’t work if one sins deliberately and does Good/Charity Works
“… Put away the evil of your doings from before My eyes. CEASE TO DO EVIL, … 19IF YOU ARE WILLING AND OBEDIENT, You shall eat the good of the land; … 20But if you refuse and rebel,
You shall be devoured by the sword”;
For the MOUTH OF THE LORD HAS SPOKEN. …”
iii. Conditional to a life of Penance in Doing Good especially Charity Works
“… 17Learn to DO GOOD; Seek justice, Rebuke [i]the oppressor; [j]DEFEND THE FATHERLESS, PLEAD FOR THE WIDOW. …”
iv. Only one set of Good Works is specifically mentioned apart from the general term ‘Do Good’ of which different people have different opinions about what a ‘Good Work is’ and thus regardless Charity Works is Primary or Most Important too (please compare with Judgment Day Verses in Matthew 25:31 – 46 too where ‘only Charity Works’ are explicitly mentioned likewise):
“… DEFEND THE FATHERLESS, PLEAD FOR THE WIDOW. …” (Isaiah 1:17, NKJV)
“… 17learn to do well; diligently seek judgement, DELIVER HIM that is SUFFERING WRONG, PLEAD FOR THE ORPHAN, and OBTAIN JUSTICE FOR THE WIDOW. …” (Isaiah 1:17, LXX, Brenton Septuagint Translation)
This is the Truest and Purest Religion which one can practice for those having the Faith in Christ as the New Testament Verse below means likewise too:
“… PURE AND UNDEFILED RELIGION BEFORE GOD and THE FATHER is this: TO VISIT ORPHANS AND WIDOWS in THEIR TROUBLE, and to keep oneself unspotted from the world. …” – Blessed St. James the Just, First Bishop of Jerusalem (James 1:27, NKJV)
Yes, Blessed Judgment Day Words itself Ring likewise in Matthew 25:31 – 46 regarding ,”… I was hungry, thirsty, naked, homeless…” and our response in action to it is vital.
Conclusion – Did Christ Himself Teach this Doctrine?
Please consider His Own Most Blessed Words below:
“… (39Then the Lord said to him), “Now you Pharisees make the outside of the cup and dish clean, but your INWARD part is full of GREED and WICKEDNESS. 40Foolish ones! Did not He who made the outside make the INSIDE also? 41But rather GIVE ALMS [CHARITY] of SUCH THINGS AS YOU HAVE; then indeed ALL THINGS are CLEAN to you. . …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 11:39 – 41, NKJV)
What a Great Mystery!
*Inside = Inner Person / heart.
This is the “Doctrine of Sanctification” as every Protestant Theologian also teaches but not all understand it accurately. Why? Most Protestant pastors and theologians teach something like this: You are sanctified by God’s Word via Obedience by living a holy life. This is Perfectly true but incomplete. Why?
As Christ Himself Says in Luke 11:39 – 41 above, the Doctrine of Sanctification has two parts namely:
i) Cleaning the Outside = Being Holy on the Outside
ii) Cleaning the Inside = Being Holy from the Inside
Just like one is Saved by faith but the Sanctification being a Process which cleans us by God’s Will till we Enter into His Kingdom, both the cleansing of the outside and of the inside is necessary as these Verses Testify. Most pastors only focus on the outside cleansing doctrines (which are very important) but forget the equally important Doctrine of Inner Sanctification as did the Pharisees of Old forget likewise too as Christ Rebukes them in Luke 11:39 – 41 too for this ‘same reason’. Can you see it?
Let’s take a closer look in light of these Verses here itself:
1. Doctrine of Sanctification for the Outside Person = Keep Holy
“… Put away the evil of your doings from before My eyes. CEASE TO DO EVIL, …” (Isaiah 1:16, NKJV)
“… and to keep oneself unspotted from the world. …” (James 1:27, NKJV)
“… (39Then the Lord said to him), “Now you Pharisees make the outside of the cup and dish clean, …” (Luke 11:39, NKJV)
2. Doctrine of Sanctification for the “Inner” Person = Cleaning All Greed and Wickedness from within
“… 16“WASH YOURSELVES, MAKE YOURSELVES CLEAN; … 17Learn to DO GOOD; Seek justice, Rebuke [i]the oppressor; [j]DEFEND THE FATHERLESS, PLEAD FOR THE WIDOW. … Though YOUR SINS ARE LIKE SCARLET, They shall be as WHITE AS SNOW; Though they are RED LIKE CRIMSON, They shall BE AS WOOL. …” (Isaiah 1:16 – 18, NKJV, Highlighted)
“… PURE AND UNDEFILED RELIGION BEFORE GOD and THE FATHER is this: TO VISIT ORPHANS AND WIDOWS in THEIR TROUBLE, . …” (James 1:27, NKJV, Highlighted)
“…40Foolish ones! Did not He who made the outside make the INSIDE also? 41But rather GIVE ALMS [CHARITY] of SUCH THINGS AS YOU HAVE; then indeed ALL THINGS are CLEAN to you. . …” (Luke 11:40 – 41, NKJV)
I am not simply rearranging the Verses above but matching it with Christ’s Own Most Blessed Words below where He Reveals the “Inner Sanctification” to be done beyond the “Outer Keeping Holy Sanctification” (i.e. beyond keeping the Outside of the Cup as clean as it’s metaphorically represented here); Verses:
“… (39Then the Lord said to him), “Now you Pharisees make the outside of the cup and dish clean, but your INWARD part is full of GREED and WICKEDNESS. 40Foolish ones! Did not He who made the outside make the INSIDE also? 41But rather GIVE ALMS [CHARITY] of SUCH THINGS AS YOU HAVE; then indeed ALL THINGS are CLEAN to you. . …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 11:39 – 41, NKJV)
Did you notice that to achieve “Inner Sanctification” from “Greed (Coveteousness*)” and “Wickedness (Evil)”, Christ only points to one action namely “… GIVE ALMS/GIVE TO CHARITY…” in Verses above? Indeed all other acts of holiness be it prayer, fasting, self control deal with the ‘outer holiness part namely keeping the outside or our body clean from external sin’ but to be ‘clean on the inside/heart’ too, it is a must to do ‘Charity Works’ as Christ Himself Teaches this Inner Doctrine of Sanctification. Can you see it? Very few pastors and theologians emphasize on this, right?
*Coveteousness (or ‘love of money’) is a type idolatry and those who Practice it will not inherit the Kingdom of Heaven as per Ephesians 5:5’s Warning. So please be careful of any ‘Prosperity Gospel and Hoarding’ as many Verses Testify against it in the New Covenant (e.g. Luke 12:21, James 5:3).
Summary
To achieve a Perfection of Christianity both Doctrines of Sanctification relating to the Outer Person and Inner Person ought to be taught as it’s seen here in the Verses defining our Religion itself (James 1:27 mentions both acts), in Isaiah’s 1:18’s Conditional Promise of Washing of Sins or Sanctification which also mentions both and most importantly Christ’s Own Most Blessed Words affirming it in Luke 11:39 – 41 above.
Please understand that just like our “outer Sanctification Doctrine of Keeping Holy” does “not” contribute anything to Salvation but is present in every saved person by God’s Working Alone, likewise the “Inner Sanctification Doctrine of Charity Works or Giving to Charity” does “not” contribute anything to Salvation but also must be present in every saved person by God’s Working too. Can you see it?
Please don’t be deceived and let us Preach these Verses as Blessed Prophet Isaiah did, as Blessed Apostle James & the rest did and most importantly as Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ Himself Preached it. May God Help us as these Two Doctrines of outer/inner Sanctification when ignored seems to be the definition of “Lawlessness” of whom Christ Denies as I never knew you even if they got “MANY” (not few converts in His Name) via focusing on “Prophesying”, “Casting out of Demons” and “Miracles/Wonders” but are ‘not Sanctified outwardly or inwardly or both’, Verses:
“… 14Because narrow is the gate and difficult is the way which leads to life, and there are few who find it. … 21“Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who DOES THE WILL OF MY FATHER in heaven. 22MANY will say to Me in that day, ‘Lord, Lord, have we NOT PROPHESIED in Your name, CAST OUT DEMONS in Your name, and DONE MANY WONDERS in Your name?’ 23And then I will declare to them, ‘I never knew you; depart from Me, YOU WHO PRACTICE LAWLESSNESS!’ … 24“Therefore WHOEVER HEARS THESE SAYINGS OF MINE, and DOES THEM, I will liken him to a WISE MAN who BUILT HIS HOUSE ON THE ROCK: …” – Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 7:14, 21 – 23, 24, NKJV)
P/S 1:Who Gets “Eternal Life”? The Outward Evidence is:
“…But now having been set free from sin, and having become slaves of God, you have your FRUIT to HOLINESS, and the END, EVERLASTING LIFE. …” (Romans 6:22, NKJV)
“… 6who “will render to each one according to his deeds”: 7ETERNAL LIFE to those who by PATIENT CONTINUANCE in DOING GOOD good seek for glory, honor, and immortality; . …” (Romans 2:6 – 7, NKJV)
P/S 2: Who will see God? The Doctrine of Sanctification Reveals two Conditions:
i. Those who are Holy or Sanctified on the Outside (Hebrews 12:14)
ii. Those who are Holy within or Sanctified on the Inside (Luke 11:40 – 41, Matthew 5:8)
These Verses:
“…Pursue peace with all people, and HOLINESS, without which NO ONE will SEE THE LORD …:” (Hebrews 12:14, NKJV)
If only those with a “Pure Heart” will “see God” and Christ Says that to clean the heart or “Inside” one must do “Charity/Alms”, then who gets to see God? Please compare these Verses
“…Blessed are the PURE in HEART, For they shall SEE GOD. …” (Matthew 5:8, NKJV)
“… (39Then the Lord said to him), “Now you Pharisees make the outside of the cup and dish clean, but your INWARD part is full of GREED and WICKEDNESS. 40Foolish ones! Did not He who made the outside make the INSIDE also? 41But rather GIVE ALMS [CHARITY] of SUCH THINGS AS YOU HAVE; then indeed ALL THINGS are CLEAN to you. . …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 11:39 – 41, NKJV)
Since a “PURE” and “UNDEFILED RELIGION” consists of both the ‘Outward Sanctification’ (of keeping oneself holy/unspotted from the World) and ‘Inward Sanctification’ (of doing Charity Works especially toward Orphans/Widows), such ones may the ones with the “PURE HEART” as Matthew 5:8 requires as a Condition for those who will “see God”, right?
“… PURE AND UNDEFILED RELIGION BEFORE GOD and THE FATHER is this: TO VISIT ORPHANS AND WIDOWS in THEIR TROUBLE, and to keep oneself unspotted from the world. …” – Blessed St. James the Just, First Bishop of Jerusalem (James 1:27, NKJV)
P/S 3: First Christianity Quotes
Here are two example early Church Leader quotes on “Inward Doctrine of Sanctification” based on Christ’s Words in Luke 11:39 – 41 who are accepted by both Protestants and Catholics:
“… 2. The Holy Spirit speaks in the sacred Scriptures, and says, “By almsgiving and faith sins are purged.” [3524, Proverbs 16:6.] Not assuredly those sins which had been previously contracted, for those are purged by the blood and sanctification of Christ. Moreover, He says again, “As water extinguisheth fire, so almsgiving quencheth sin.” [3525, Ecclus. iii. 30.] Here also it is shown and proved, that as in the laver of saving water the fire of Gehenna* is extinguished, so by almsgiving and works of righteousness the flame of sins is subdued. And because in baptism remission of sins is granted once for all, constant and ceaseless labour, following the likeness of baptism, once again bestows the mercy of God. The Lord teaches this also in the Gospel. For when the disciples were pointed out, as eating and not first washing their hands, He replied and said, “He that made that which is within, made also that which is without. But give alms, and behold all things are clean unto you;” [3526, Luke 11:41] …” – Blessed St. Cyprian, Bishop of Carthage, a pre-eminent Latin writer of Western Christianity until Jerome and Augustine, Martyr for Christ (c. 200 AD – c. 258 AD, Point 2, Treatise viii. On Works and Alms)
Source:
https://biblehub.com/library/cyprian/the_treatises_of_cyprian/treatise_viii_on_works_and.htm
and
“…72. Accordingly, what our Lord says — “Give alms and, behold, all things are clean to you” [Luke 11:41] — applies to all useful acts of mercy. Therefore, not only the man who gives food to the hungry, drink to the thirsty, clothing to the naked, hospitality to the wayfarer, refuge to the fugitive; who visits the sick and the prisoner, redeems the captive, bears the burdens of the weak, leads the blind, comforts the sorrowful, heals the sick, shows the errant the right way, gives advice to the perplexed, and does whatever is needful for the needy — not only does this man give alms, but the man who forgives the trespasser also gives alms as well. He is also a giver of alms who, by blows or other discipline, corrects and restrains those under his command, if at the same time he forgives from the heart the sin by which he has been wronged or offended, or prays that it be forgiven the offender. Such a man gives alms, not only in that he forgives and prays, but also in that he rebukes and administers corrective punishment, since in this he shows mercy. Now, many benefits are bestowed on the unwilling, when their interests and not their preferences are consulted. And men frequently are found to be their own enemies, while those they suppose to be their enemies are their true friends. And then, by mistake, they return evil for good, when a Christian ought not to return evil even for evil. Thus, there are many kinds of alms, by which, when we do them, we are helped in obtaining forgiveness of our own sins. …” …” – Blessed St. Augustine of Hippo, Doctor of the Church, who influenced virtually all of subsequent Western philosophy and Catholic theology, as well as a significant amount of Protestant theology (c. 354 AD – c. 430 AD, St. Augustine’s Writings on Alms and Forgiveness, Point 72)
Source: http://www.godrules.net/library/augustine/280augustine19.htm
Peace to you
Mystery of Heaven’s Abundant Welcome and Adding to Faith
1) Is it Biblical to “Add” anything to “our Faith”? Yes, Verses:
“… 5But also for this very reason, giving all diligence, ADD to your FAITH VIRTUE, to virtue knowledge, 6to knowledge self-control, to self-control [d]perseverance, to perseverance godliness, 7to godliness brotherly kindness, and to brotherly kindness love. 8For if THESE THINGS ARE YOURS and ABOUND, you will be neither [e]barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. 9For he who lacks these things is shortsighted, even to blindness, and has forgotten that he was cleansed from his old sins. 10Therefore, brethren, be even more diligent to MAKE YOUR CALL and ELECTION SURE, for IF YOU DO THESE THINGS YOU WILL NEVER STUMBLE; 11for so an ENTRANCE will be supplied to you ABUNDANTLY into the EVERLASTING KINGDOM of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. 12For this reason I will not be negligent to REMIND you ALWAYS of these things, though you know and are established in the PRESENT TRUTH. 13Yes, I think it is right, as long as I am in this [f]tent, to stir you up by REMINDING you, 14knowing that shortly I must [g]put off my tent, just as our Lord Jesus Christ showed me. 15Moreover I will be careful to ensure that you always have a REMINDER of THESE THINGS after my [h]decease. …” – Blessed St. Peter the Great Apostle of Christ (2 Peter 1:5 – 15, NKJV)
What to “add” to “faith”?
i. ADD to your FAITH VIRTUE (the first thing to add is virtue)
ii. to virtue knowledge,
iii. 6to knowledge self-control,
iv. to self-control [d]perseverance,
v. to perseverance godliness,
vi. 7to godliness brotherly kindness,
vii. and to brotherly kindness love
Please notice that those who do “not” add to their “faith” these things are called: “… barren .. unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. 9For he who lacks these things is shortsighted, even to blindness, …” in 2 Peter 1:8 – 9 above.
2) What is the “Promise” if we “add the things above to our faith”
i. Your Call and Election will be Sure and not that you will drift away from God
“… 10Therefore, 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)
ii. An Abundant Entrance into His Kingdom is Promised
“… 11for so an ENTRANCE will be supplied to you ABUNDANTLY into the EVERLASTING KINGDOM of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. …” (2 Peter 1:11, NKJV)
Can you see it?
3) This was Blessed Apostle St. Peter’s Dying Sermon where he only wants to “remind” them of these godly activities – and the Bible Promises that ‘true Preachers’ will ‘remind Christians’ of ‘these things’ too to be in the “TRUTH”:
“… 12For this reason I will not be negligent to REMIND you ALWAYS of these things, though you know and are established in the PRESENT TRUTH. 13Yes, I think it is right, as long as I am in this [f]tent, to stir you up by REMINDING you, 14knowing that shortly I must [g]put off my tent, just as our Lord Jesus Christ showed me. 15Moreover I will be careful to ensure that you always have a REMINDER of THESE THINGS after my [h]decease. …” (2 Peter 1:12 – 15, NKJV)
Can you see it?
Conclusion
The Bible clearly Affirms that this is the Doctrine of Godliness which Christians ought to focus for their faith. Note that the Practice of “Virtue”, “Brotherly Kindness” and “Love” is “Good Works”.
The Purpose of “Holy Scripture” itself is to produce “Men of God” who are Equipped/Complete/Perfect for doing every “GOOD WORK”, Verses:
“… 15And that from a child thou hast known the HOLY SCRIPTURES, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus. 16ALL SCRIPTURE is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: 17That THE MAN OF GOD may be PERFECT, throughly furnished unto ALL GOOD WORKS. …” (2 Timothy 3:15 – 17, KJV)
It is clear in the Conclusion Verse above that a “PERFECT MAN OF GOD” refers to one who uses HOLY SCRIPTURE to both teach and do “GOOD WORKS” (equipping others for this too). This is the Purpose of the ‘New Covenant’ too as the Authour of Hebrews concludes likewise in Verses below too:
“… 20Now the God of peace, that brought again from the dead our LORD JESUS, that great shepherd of the sheep, through the BLOOD of the EVERLASTING COVENANT 21MAKE YOU PERFECT in EVERY GOOD WORK to DO HIS WILL, working in you that which is WELL PLEASING in his sight, through Jesus Christ; to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen. …” (Hebrews 13:20 – 21, KJV)
As you read the phrase “…through the BLOOD of the EVERLASTING COVENANT 21MAKE YOU PERFECT in EVERY GOOD WORK to DO HIS WILL …” please remember the “Great Denial Verse in Matthew 7:18 – 23 which Speaks of “…Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father in heaven. …” (Matthew 7:21). Doesn’t it clearly imply that those who “do Good Works” aer “doing His Will” and Vice Versa?
Please read carefully to realize that to be “PERFECT” (this word exists in Hebrews 13:21 here, 2 Timothy 3:17) and “well pleasing” to God, a man of God does “EVERY GOOD WORK” as that’s why the “PERFECTION” of “following Christ” involves Perfect Renunciation as Verse below describe likewise (but we can follow it according to the measure of faith gifted to us, Romans 12:3):
“… 21JESUS said to him, “IF you want to be PERFECT, go, SELL what YOU HAVE and GIVE to the POOR, and YOU WILL HAVE TREASURE IN HEAVEN; and come, FOLLOW ME.” 22But when the young man heard that saying, he went away SORROWFUL, for he had GREAT POSSESSIONS.23Then JESUS said to His disciples, “Assuredly, I say to you that it is HARD for a RICH MAN TO ENTER THE KINGDOM OF HEAVEN. 24And AGAIN I say to you, it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God. …” (Matthew 19:21 – 24, NKJV)
Yes, we are Saved by Faith and the Purpose of Life is to do “GOOD WORKS” according to this Famous ‘Salvation by Faith’ Verses too if quoted in “full”:
“… 8For by GRACE you have been SAVED THROUGH FAITH, and that NOT OF YOURSELVES; it is the GIFT OF GOD, 9NOT OF WORKS, lest anyone should boast. 10For we are His workmanship, CREATED IN CHRIST JESUS for GOOD WORKS, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them. …” (Ephesians 2:8 – 10, NKJV)
Here’s an ‘Anonymous’ early Christian Writing which may describe such a “faith with works”:
“… But here ANCIENT FAITH
RESTS in ELECT ABODE; and life here treads,
Joying in an eternal covenant;
And health1326 without a care is gladsome here
In placid tilths, ever to live and be
320 Ever in light.
Here whosoe’er hath lived
Pious, and cultivant of equity
And goodness; who hath feared the thundering God
With mind sincere; with sacred duteousness
TENDED his PARENTS; and his other life1327
325 Spent ever crimeless; or who hath consoled
With FAITHFUL HELP a FRIEND in indigence;
Succoured the over-toiling NEEDY ONE,
As ORPHAN”S PATRON, and the POOR MAN’S AID;
RESCUED the INNOCENT, and succoured them
330 When press with accusation; hath to guests
His ample table’s pledges given; hath done
All things divinely; pious offices
Enjoined; done hurt to none; ne’er coveted
Another’s: such as these, exulting all
335 In divine praises, and themselves at once
Exhorting, raise their voices to the stars;
Thanksgivings to the Lord in joyous wise
They psalming celebrate; and they shall go
140
Their harmless way with comrade messengers. …” – Anonymous Christian Author (via the Famous Historian Mr. Philip Schaff)
Source:
https://www.ccel.org/ccel/schaff/anf04.iii.xi.iv.html?scrBook=2Pet&scrCh=3&scrV=10#iii.xi.iv-p233.1
Peace to you
Life’s Hardest Test – Mystery of Inheriting Heaven
To Inherit Heaven how Truthfully we Deal our Money for the Kingdom counts.
Says Who?
“… 9“And I say to you, make friends for yourselves by unrighteous [d]mammon, that when [e]you fail, they may receive you into an everlasting home. 10He who is faithful in what is least is faithful also in much; and he who is unjust in what is least is unjust also in much. 11Therefore IF YOU HAVE NOT BEEN FAITHFUL IN THE UNRIGHTEOUS MAMMON, WHO WILL COMMIT TO YOUR TRUST THE TRUE RICHES? 12And if you have not been faithful in what is another man’s, who will give you what is your own? 13“No servant can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, or else he will be loyal to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and mammon.” …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 16:9 – 13, NKJV)
The “Main God’s Will” in regards to our wealth is sharing and Giving to Charity as Christ Himself Mentioned, example Verses below which is in the same context of “inheriting Heavenly Treasures”, i.e. “inheriting Heaven” itself (Can you see it?):
“… 31“But SEEK HIS KINGDOM, and THESE THINGS will be ADDED TO YOU. 32“Do not be afraid, little flock, for your Father has chosen gladly to give you the kingdom. 33“SELL YOUR POSSESSIONS and GIVE TO CHARITY; make yourselves money belts which do not wear out, an UNFAILING TREASURE IN HEAVEN, where no thief comes near nor moth destroys. 34“For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. 35“Be dressed in readiness, and KEEP YOUR LAMPS LIT. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 12:31 – 35, NASB)
Please tread carefully because these are all Christ’s Direct Own Most Blessed Words. Salvation and Eternal Life is a Free Unearned Gift but our “inheritance in the Heavens” depends heavily on the “Charity Doctrine” of how much we share/give to the Poor as Christ Himself stated in His only Definition of “Perfection” beyond being Holy/Keeping the Law Promising the Mysterious “Treasure in Heaven” (i.e. “Heavenly Inheritance”) in Verses below too:
“… 21JESUS said to him, “IF you want to be PERFECT, go, SELL what YOU HAVE and GIVE to the POOR, and YOU WILL HAVE TREASURE IN HEAVEN; and come, FOLLOW ME.” 22But when the young man heard that saying, he went away SORROWFUL, for he had GREAT POSSESSIONS.23Then JESUS said to His disciples, “Assuredly, I say to you that it is HARD for a RICH MAN TO ENTER THE KINGDOM OF HEAVEN. 24And AGAIN I say to you, it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God. …” (Matthew 19:21 – 24, NKJV)
Can you see the Context that a rich man may be Saved but to “inherit Treasure in the Heavens” is going to be very hard for such ones unless they share. Yes, in Verses below Christ Directly links the “Inheritance Level in the Heavens” during the “First Resurrection” to be proportional to one’s sharing and Giving to the Poor or to Charity, Verses:
“… (12Then He also said to him who invited Him,) “When you give a dinner or a supper, do not ask your friends, your brothers, your relatives, NOR RICH NEIGHBORS, lest they also invite you back, and you be repaid. 13But when you give a feast, INVITE the POOR, THE MAIMED, THE LAME, THE BLIND. 14And you will be BLESSED, because they cannot repay you; for you shall be REPAID at the [First]* RESURRECTION OF THE JUST.” …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 14:12 – 14, NKJV)
*Revelation 20:4 – 6.
Please allow me to repeat that each of these Verses quoted here are by “Christ only”. Let’s not miss the treasures and inheritance in the Heavens by “missing” these required works. If we look down on God’s Promises in these Bible Verses, then we may well “not” deserve to inherit it either for such disrespect and disregard for His Most Holy Words.
“… 13“Enter by the narrow gate; for wide is the gate and broad is the way that leads to destruction, and there are many who go in by it. 14Because narrow is the gate and difficult is the way which leads to life, and there are few who find it. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 7:13 – 14, NKJV)
Conclusion
1) To Inherit Eternal Life = Keep Holy and Love your neighbor as yourself (being Saved)
“… 16Now behold, one came and said to Him, “GoodTeacher, what good thing shall I do that I may have ETERNAL LIFE?” 17So He said to him, “Why do you call Me good? No one is good but One, that is, God. But if you want to enter into life, keep the commandments.” 18He said to Him, “Which ones?” Jesus said, “‘You shall not murder,’ ‘You shall not commit adultery,’ ‘You shall not steal,’ ‘You shall not bear false witness,’ 19‘Honor your father and your mother,’ and, ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 19:16 – 19, NKJV)
“… 25And behold, a certain lawyer stood up and tested Him, saying, “Teacher, what shall I DO TO INHERIT ETERNAL LIFE?” 26He said to him, “What is WRITTEN IN THE LAW? What is YOUR READING OF IT?” 27So he answered and said, “ ‘You shall LOVE THE LORD YOUR GOD with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your strength, and with all your mind,’ and ‘YOUR NEIGHBOR AS YOURSELF.’ ” 28And He said to him, “You have answered rightly; DO THIS AND YOU WILL LIVE.” 29But he, wanting to justify himself, said to Jesus, “And WHO IS MY NEIGHBOR?” 30Then JESUS ANSWERED and said: “A certain man went down from Jerusalem to Jericho, and fell among thieves, who stripped him of his clothing, wounded him, and departed, leaving him half dead. 31Now by chance a certain priest came down that road. And when he saw him, he passed by on the other side. 32Likewise a Levite, when he arrived at the place, came and looked, and passed by on the other side. 33But a certain Samaritan, as he journeyed, came where he was. And when he saw him, he had COMPASSION. 34So he went to him and BANDAGED HIS WOUNDS, pouring on oil and wine; and he set him on his own animal, brought him to an inn, and TOOK CARE OF HIM. 35On the next day, when he departed, he took out two denarii, gave them to the innkeeper, and said to him, ‘TAKE CARE OF HIM; and WHATEVER MORE YOU SPEND, when I come again, I WILL REPAY YOU.’ 36So which of these three do you think was NEIGHBOR to him who fell among the thieves? 37And he said, “He who SHOWED MERCY on him.”
Then JESUS SAID to him, “GO AND DO LIKEWISE.”…” (Luke 10:25 – 37, NKJV)
2) To Inherit Eternal Life and the Heavens (being Saved and inheriting the Heavens)
“… JESUS said, “‘You shall not murder,’ ‘You shall not commit adultery,’ ‘You shall not steal,’ ‘You shall not bear false witness,’ 19‘Honor your father and your mother,’ and, ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ ” 20The young man said to Him, “All these things I have kept [g]from my youth. What do I STILL LACK?” 21JESUS said to him, “If you want to be PERFECT, go, SELL WHAT YOU HAVE and GIVE TO THE POOR, and YOU WILL HAVE TREASURE IN HEAVEN; and come, FOLLOW ME. 22But when the young man heard that saying, he went away sorrowful, for he had great possessions.” …” (Matthew 19:18 – 22, NKJV)
“… 27Then Peter answered and said to Him, “See, we have LEFT ALL and FOLLOWED YOU. Therefore what shall we have?” 28So Jesus said to them, “Assuredly I say to you, that in the REGENERATION, when the Son of Man sits on the throne of His glory, you who have followed Me will also sit on twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel. 29And EVERYONE who has LEFT HOUSES or brothers or sisters or father or mother or wife or children or LANDS, for MY NAME’S SAKE, shall RECEIVE a HUNDREDFOLD, and INHERIT ETERNAL LIFE. 30But MANY who are FIRST will be LAST, and the LAST FIRST. …” (Matthew 19:27 – 30, NKJV)
Who is Fulfilling the Great Commission?
“18And Jesus came and spoke to them, saying, “All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. 19Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20TEACHING THEM TO OBSERVE ALL THINGS THAT I HAVE COMMANDED YOU; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” Amen.” (Matthew 28:18 – 20, NKJV)
Comment: Some Christians may do the conversion or baptism part while others may do the “… 20teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you …” part of the Great Commission above according to New Testament Verses (e.g. 1 Corinthians 14:37, Matthew 5:19) as that could be a reason why Blessed Apostle St. Paul himself wrote Inspiredly as follows:
“… For Christ did not send me to baptize, but to preach the gospel, …” (1 Corinthians 1:17, NKJV)
So, are we teaching “all these things Christ Commanded” or doing some parts of the Great Commission only? Please take this part seriously as “teaching and doing” these things which Christ the Lord Commanded in these Verses determine our “inheritance in the Heavens” as Verses below too imply:
“… 19Whoever therefore breaks one of the least of these commandments, and teaches men so, shall be called least in the kingdom of heaven; but whoever does and teaches them, he shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven. 20For I say to you, that UNLESS YOUR RIGHTEOUSNESS EXCEEDS THE RIGHTEOUSNESS OF THE SCRIBES AND PHARISEES, YOU WILL BY NO MEANS ENTER THE KINGDOM OF HEAVEN. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 5:19 – 20, NKJV)
Did you notice that to “enter the Kingdom of Heaven” type of inheritance, “our righteousness must exceed that of the Pharisees” as Verses above clearly reveal. May God Help us Fulfill His Will in this. Relative Measure counts too and so let’s not be puffed up (Luke 21:1 – 4). The earliest Church did this extravagantly (e.g. Acts 2:44 – 46, Acts 4:32). Perhaps the early Church fathers knew this secret accurately as discussed in an earlier post, for example:
i) St. Papias
“… As the presbyters say, then those who are deemed worthy of an abode in heaven shall go there, others shall enjoy the delights of Paradise, and others shall possess the splendour of the city; for everywhere the Saviour will be seen, according as they shall be worthy who see Him. But that there is this distinction between the habitation of those who produce an hundredfold, and that of those who produce sixty-fold, and that of those who produce thirty-fold; for the first will be taken up into the heavens, the second class will dwell in Paradise, and the last will inhabit the city; and that on this account the Lord said, “In my Father’s house are many mansions:” …” – Blessed St. Papias, Bishop of Hierapolis, an Apostolic Father being the Disciple of the Blessed St. John the Apostle (c. 60 AD – c. 163 AD)
Source: http://www.earlychristianwritings.com/text/papias.html
ii) St. Ireneus
“… And as the presbyters say, Then those who are deemed worthy of an abode in heaven shall go there, others shall enjoy the delights of paradise, and others shall possess the splendour of the city; for everywhere the Saviour shall be seen according as they who see Him shall be worthy. [They say, moreover], that there is this distinction between the habitation of those who produce an hundred-fold, and that of those who produce sixty-fold, and that of those who produce thirty-fold [Matthew 13:1 – 8, Matthew 13:18 – 23]: for the first will be taken up into the heavens, the second will dwell in paradise, the last will inhabit the city; and that was on this account the Lord declared, “In My Father’s house are many mansions.” For all things belong to God, who supplies all with a suitable dwelling-place; even as His Word says, that a share is allotted to all by the Father, according as each person is or shall be worthy. And this is the couch on which the guests shall recline, having been invited to the wedding. The presbyters, the disciples of the apostles, affirm that this is the gradation and arrangement of those who are saved, and that they advance through steps of this nature… For in the TIMES of the KINGDOM, the righteous man who is upon the earth shall then forget to die. … John, therefore, did distinctly foresee the FIRST “RESURRECTION of the JUST,” [Revelation 20:4 – 6, 1 Thessalonians 4:13 – 18, Luke 14:14] and the inheritance in the kingdom of the earth; and what the prophets have prophesied concerning it harmonize [with his vision, e.g. Isaiah 65:20 – 23, Isaiah 11, Revelation 20:7 – 10]. For the Lord also taught these things, when He promised that He would have the mixed cup new with His disciples in the kingdom. …” – Blessed St. Irenaeous of Lyons, a Hearer of Blessed St. Polycarp who is an Apostolic Father being the Disciple of Blessed St. John who wrote the Book of Revelation (c. 130 AD – c. 202 AD, ‘Against Heresies’, Book 5, Chapter Chapter XXXVI, Points 1 – 2, 3-partial)
Source: http://www.earlychristianwritings.com/text/irenaeus-book5.html
Please take note that the Kingdom of Heaven type of inheritance distinction in Holy Scripture beyond inheriting eternal life is most clear in Christ’s Own Most Blessed Words in Matthew 19:18 – 30 as we saw earlier even if these Church Fathers’ quotes are not true.
Peace to you
House on the Rock Mystery – Commandments of the Lord and those through His Apostles only
“… But I shall not be unwilling to put down, along with my interpretations, whatsoever instructions I received with care at any time from the elders, and stored up with care in my memory, assuring you at the same time of their truth. For I did not, like the multitude, take pleasure in those who spoke much, but in those who taught the truth; NOR IN THOSE WHO RELATED STRANGE COMMANDMENTS, but in THOSE WHO REHEARSED THE COMMANDMENTS GIVEN BY THE LORD TO FAITH, and proceeding from truth itself. If, then, any one who had attended on the elders came, I asked minutely after their sayings,–what Andrew or Peter said, or what was said by Philip, or by Thomas, or by James, or by John, or by Matthew, or by any other of the Lord’s disciples: which things Aristion and the presbyter John, the disciples of the Lord, say. For I imagined that what was to be got from books was not so profitable to me as what came from the living and abiding voice. …” – Blessed St. Papias, Bishop of Hierapolis, an Apostolic Father being the Disciple of the Blessed St. John the Apostle (c. 60 AD – c. 163 AD, Fragment I)
Source:
http://www.earlychristianwritings.com/text/papias.html
Please notice these phrases from the above:
i. “… NOR IN THOSE WHO RELATED STRANGE COMMANDMENTS, …” = Please don’t take a risk listening or obeying modern interpretations and New Commands doing against what’s Written in New Testament Verses.
ii. “… but in THOSE WHO REHEARSED THE COMMANDMENTS GIVEN BY THE LORD TO FAITH …” = Only listen to Preachers who are repeating the same Preaching according to New Testament Written Commands.
Yes this is the True Blessedness as the other Apostolic Witnesses agree likewise, to quote:
“… BLESSED ARE WE, beloved, IF WE KEEP THE COMMANDMENTS OF GOD IN THE HARMONY OF LOVE; that SO THROUGH LOVE OUR SINS MAY BE FORGIVEN US. For it is written, “BLESSED are they whose transgressions are forgiven, and whose sins are covered. BLESSED is the man whose sin the Lord will not impute to him, and in whose mouth there is no guile.” THIS BLESSEDNESS comes upon those who have been chosen by God through Jesus Christ our Lord; to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen. …” – Blessed St. Clement of Rome, an Apostolic Father being a direct Disciple of the Blessed Apostle St. Peter (c.35 AD – c. 99 AD, 1 Clement, Chapter 50)
Source:
http://www.earlychristianwritings.com/text/1clement-roberts.html
Note the importance of the “Charity Doctrine” in regards to “Love in Action” for cancelling out the ‘Judgment of Sins’ in that we may be forgiven as Blessed St. Clement of Rome himself writes “… that SO THROUGH LOVE OUR SINS MAY BE FORGIVEN US. …” (the meaning of 1 Peter 4:8 and Luke 7:47 too) in the above similar to Blessed St. Polycarp’s quote of the Book of Tobit below likewise as discussed in earlier write ups too:
“… When YOU CAN DO GOOD, DEFER IT NOT, because “ALMS DELIVERS FROM DEATH. [Tobit 12:9]” …” – Blessed St. Polycarp, Bishop of Smryna, an Apostolic Father being the Disciple of the Blessed St. John the Apostle who wrote the Book of Revelation (c. 69 AD – c. 155 A, Chapter X, Epistle to the Philippians)
Source:
http://www.earlychristianwritings.com/text/polycarp-roberts.html
“… And above all things have fervent love for one another, for “LOVE will COVER a MULTITUDE OF SINS.” …”(1 Peter 4:8, NKJV)
“… Therefore I say to you, HER SINS, which are MANY, ARE FORGIVEN, for SHE LOVED MUCH. But to whom little is forgiven, the same loves little. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 7:47, NKJV)
“… 3Now by this we know that we know Him, if we keep His commandments. 4He who says, “I know Him,” and does not keep His commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him. 5But whoever keeps His word, truly the love of God [a]is perfected in him. By this we know that we are in Him. 6He who says he abides in Him ought himself also to walk just as He walked. … 15Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. …” – Blessed St. John the only non-martyr Apostle of Christ (1 John 2:3 – 6, 15, NKJV)
“… I DO NOT, as PETER AND PAUL, ISSUE COMMANDMENTS unto you. THEY WERE APOSTLES of JESUS CHRIST, but I am the very least [of believers]: they were free, as the servants of God; while I am, even until now, a servant. But when I suffer, I shall be the freedman of Jesus Christ, and shall rise again emancipated in Him. And now, being in bonds for Him, I LEARN NOT TO DESIRE ANYTHING WORLDLY OR VAIN. …” – Blessed St. Ignatius, Bishop of Antioch, nicknamed ‘God-Bearing’, An Apostolic Father being the direct Disciple of the Blessed Apostle St. John, Martyr for Christ (c. 35 AD – c. 108 AD, Epistle to the Romans)
Source:
http://www.earlychristianwritings.com/text/ignatius-romans-roberts.html
Conclusion
“… that you may be mindful of the words which were spoken before by the holy prophets, and of the commandment of us, the apostles of the Lord and Savior, …” (2 Peter 3:2, NKJV)
“… 36Or did the word of God originate with you? Or are you the only people it has reached? 37If anyone thinks they are a prophet or otherwise gifted by the Spirit, let them acknowledge that what I am writing to you is the Lord’s command. 38But if anyone ignores this, they will themselves be ignored. …” (1 Corinthians 14:36 – 38, NIV)
“… For it would have been better for them not to have known the way of righteousness, than having known it, to turn from the holy commandment delivered to them. …” (2 Peter 2:21, NKJV)
“… 1“Then the kingdom of heaven shall be likened to ten virgins who took their lamps and went out to meet the bridegroom. 2Now FIVE OF THEM WERE WISE, and FIVE WERE FOOLISH. 3Those who were foolish took their lamps and took no oil with them, 4but the wise took oil in their vessels with their lamps. 5But while the bridegroom was delayed, they all slumbered and slept. 6“And at midnight a cry was heard: ‘Behold, the bridegroom [a]is coming; go out to meet him!’ 7Then all those virgins arose and trimmed their lamps. 8And the foolish said to the wise, ‘Give us some of your oil, for our lamps are going out.’ 9But the wise answered, saying, ‘No, lest there should not be enough for us and you; but go rather to those who sell, and buy for yourselves.’ 10And while they went to buy, the bridegroom came, and those who were ready went in with him to the wedding; and the door was shut. 11“Afterward the other virgins came also, saying, ‘Lord, Lord, open to us!’ 12But he answered and said, ‘Assuredly, I say to you, I DO NOT KNOW YOU.’ …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 25:1 – 12, NKJV)
The phrase “… I DO NOT KNOW YOU.’ …” (Matthew 25:12) links it to the same Context of the Great Denial in Matthew 7:23 which has the equivalent phrase “… I NEVER KNEW YOU …”. So, the “Foolish Virgins” (in Matthew 25:2 above) may be such ones who did not “do” His Commandments as Christ calls them “Foolish” in Matthew 7:26.
“… 24“Therefore WHOEVER HEARS THESE SAYINGS OF MINE, and DOES THEM, I WILL LIKEN HIM TO A WISE MAN who BUILT HIS HOUSE ON THE ROCK: 25and the rain descended, the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house; and it did not fall, for it was founded on the rock. 26“But everyone who hears these sayings of Mine, and does not do them, will be like a FOOLISH MAN who built his house on the sand: 27and the rain descended, the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house; and it fell. And great was its fall.” …” – The KING, Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 7:24 – 27, NKJV)
Verses above or in image too: Please notice carefully the phrase Christ Says “… WHOEVER HEARS THESE SAYINGS OF MINE, and DOES THEM …” which confirms two things namely:
1) It refers to Christ’s Words only or through His Apostles and not obeying things not written. For example: Christ Directly Taught the “Charity Doctrine” (e.g. Luke 12:30 – 35, Luke 11:41, Matthew 19:21, Matthew 6:1 – 4, Luke 7:47, Luke 14:33).
2) Faith with works as the phrase “does them” means beyond “hearing His Sayings” (or believing it). In other words believing His Words with the related actions.
Not doing “His Words” is the “Lawlessness” referred to in Matthew 7:23 because in the next Verse of Matthew 7:24 Christ Points Specifically to “His Words” as the Deeds which “needs to be Done beyond believing”:
“… 21“Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father in heaven. 22Many will say to Me in that day, ‘Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in Your name, cast out demons in Your name, and done many wonders in Your name?’ 23And then I will declare to them, ‘I NEVER KNEW YOU; depart from Me, YOU WHO PRACTICE LAWLESSNESS!’ 24“Therefore WHOEVER HEARS THESE SAYINGS OF MINE, and DOES THEM, I will liken him to a WISE MAN WHO BUILT HIS HOUSE ON THE ROCK: …” (Matthew 7:21 – 24, NKJV)
Please also notice carefully that these rejected ones converted people, hence “MANY” (Could be ‘Majority’) but are Denied because they never taught nor emphasized on His Direct Commandments and His Commandments through His Apostles as it is Written in the New Testament Verses but focused on “Prophesying”, “Casting out of Demons” and “Miracles” instead.
All else is sinking sand, right?
“… If you love Me, keep My commandments. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (John 14:15, NKJV)
Peace to you
Why do People go to Hell?
The Bible Verses below by Christ Himself Reveals the Reason that People go to Hell if they don’t live a life of sharing and charity works:
“… 41“Then He will also say to those on the left hand, ‘Depart from Me, you cursed, into the everlasting fire prepared for the devil and his angels: 42for I was hungry and you gave Me no food; I was thirsty and you gave Me no drink; 43I was a stranger and you did not take Me in, naked and you did not clothe Me, sick and in prison and you did not visit Me.’ 44“Then they also will answer [d]Him, saying, ‘Lord, when did we see You hungry or thirsty or a stranger or naked or sick or in prison, and did not minister to You?’ 45Then He will answer them, saying, ‘Assuredly, I say to you, inasmuch as you did not do it to one of the least of these, you did not do it to Me.’ 46And these will go away into everlasting punishment, but the righteous into eternal life. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 25:41 – 46, NKJV)
Please notice carefully that Christ Mentions “no” other reason in Verses above except the neglect of this “Charity or Sharing Doctrine” in the lives of the Wicked. Regardless of the various interpretations of this passage, one thing is clear: every saved person will be full of such “sharing & charity works” in their lives prior & vice versa.
Hence even any “Mercy” may be shown to “Wicked” in that “eternal/age-during punishment” (regardless of this meaning of the word which is also difficult & debatable both ways whether its duration is to the age/ages or eternity), if there be any “Mercy” shown to the damned it is going to be based on whether ‘they have done any of such deeds first in their lives’ as this Verse Implies:
“…For judgment is without mercy to the one who has shown no mercy. Mercy triumphs over judgment. …” (James 2:13, NKJV)
Yes, if anything is going to triumph over Judgment it is Mercy. But also it is Promised that “Judgment” will be “without Mercy” if “one has not done such Works of Mercy” implying indirectly the possible hope of mercy if they have done such works.
In other words, it is the best “religion” to practice these “Works of Mercy” such as the “Charity/Sharing Doctrine” such as “feeding the hungry, thirsty, sheltering the homeless & clothing the naked etc.” because if there’s any hope, it’s going to be based on these acts done first or not. Even if one claims to believe and not do these works, looks like they will be rejected, right? Doing a little may not be what Christ means as it’s judged based on “Relative Measure” as these Verses imply:
“… 47And that servant who knew his master’s will, and did not prepare himself or do according to his will, shall be beaten with many stripes. 48But he who did not know, yet committed things deserving of stripes, shall be beaten with few. For everyone to whom much is given, from him much will be required; and to whom much has been committed, of him they will ask the more. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 12:47 – 48, NKJV)
Here’s a First Christianity quote agreeing to this exegesis & Bible Verses quoted prior; These Charity Quotes are by one of the Greatest Charity, Doctrine and Faith Champion the early Church has ever known – Blessed St. Basil the Great
“… I know many who fast, pray, sigh, and demonstrate every manner of piety, so long as it costs them nothing, yet would not part with a penny to help those in distress. … When I go into the house of one of these tasteless newly rich individuals, and see it bedecked with every imaginable hue, I know that this person possesses nothing more valuable than what is on display; such people decorate inanimate objects, but fail to beautify the soul. … Care for the needy requires the expenditure of wealth: when all share alike, disbursing their possessions among themselves, they each receive a small portion for their individual needs. Thus, those who love their neighbor as themselves possess nothing more than their neighbor; yet surely, you seem to have great possessions! How else can this be, but that you have preferred your own enjoyment to the consolation of the many? For the more you abound in wealth, the more you lack in love. … For if we all took only what was necessary to satisfy our own needs, giving the rest to those who lack, no one would be rich, no one would be poor, and no one would be in need. … After they have squandered their wealth among so many pursuits, if there is any left over, they hide it in the ground and guard it deep within the earth. “For the future,” they say, “is always uncertain; therefore let us take care, lest some unforeseen need should arise.” Yet while it is uncertain whether you will have need of this buried gold, the losses you incur from your inhuman behavior are not at all uncertain … Had you clothed the naked, had you given your bread to the hungry, had your door been open to every stranger, had you been a parent to the orphan, had you made the suffering of every helpless person your own, what money would you have left, the loss of which to grieve? … What then will you answer the Judge? You gorgeously array your walls, but do not clothe your fellow human being; you adorn horses, but turn away from the shameful plight of your brother or sister; you allow grain to rot in your barns, but do not feed those who are starving; you hide gold in the earth, but ignore the oppressed! … You showed no mercy; it will not be shown to you. You opened not your house; you will be expelled from the Kingdom. You gave not your bread; you will not receive eternal life. …” – Blessed St. Basil the Great, was the bishop of Caesarea Mazaca in Cappadocia, Asia Minor (modern-day Turkey). He was an influential theologian who supported the Nicene Creed and opposed the heresies of the early Christian church, fighting against both Arianism and the followers of Apollinaris of Laodicea. In addition to his work as a theologian, Basil was known for his care of the poor and underprivileged. Basil established guidelines for monastic life which focus on community life, liturgical prayer, and manual labor. Together with Pachomius, he is remembered as a father of communal monasticism in Christianity, Titles: one of the Three Holy Hierarchs / Great Hierarch, Doctor of the Church (c. 329 AD – c. 379 AD)
Source:
https://www.goodreads.com/work/quotes/7393703-on-social-justice-st-basil-the-great
Peace to you
Mystery of the Few Saved – Are we doing the Will of the Father?
In Bible Verses below, Christ clearly Reveals that only those who do the Will of the Father beyond believing enter heaven :
“21“Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father in heaven. 22Many will say to Me in that day, ‘Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in Your name, cast out demons in Your name, and done many wonders in Your name?’ 23And then I will declare to them, ‘I never knew you; depart from Me, you who practice lawlessness!’” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 7:20 – 23, NKJV)
Yes, those who call Him “Lord, Lord” already believe in Him but do “not” do “what He Said” (in “Bible Verses):
“But why do you call Me ‘Lord, Lord,’ and not do the things which I say?” – Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ, King of kings (Luke 6:46, NKJV)
Conclusion – How to fulfill the Will of God in our daily living?
i) The living Widow example in the Bible
“… 9Do not let a widow under sixty years old be taken into the number, and not unless she has been the wife of one man, 10WELL REPORTED FOR GOOD WORKS: if she has BROUGHT UP CHILDREN, if SHE HAS LODGED STRANGERS, if she has washed the saints’ feet, if she has RELIEVED THE AFFLICTED, IF SHE HAS DILIGENTLY FOLLOWED EVERY GOOD WORK. 11But [c]refuse the younger widows; for when they have begun to grow wanton against Christ, they desire to marry, 12having condemnation because they have cast off their first [d]faith. …” (1 Timothy 5:9 – 12, NKJV)
ii) The Dead Christian example in the Bible
“… 36At Joppa there was a certain disciple named TABITHA, which is translated Dorcas. This woman was FULL OF GOOD WORKS AND CHARITABLE DEEDS which SHE DID. 37But it happened in those days that she became sick and died. … 40But Peter put them all out, and knelt down and prayed. And turning to the body he said, “Tabitha, arise.” And she opened her eyes, and when she saw Peter she sat up. 41Then he gave her his hand and lifted her up; and when he had called the saints and widows, he presented her alive. 42And it became known throughout all Joppa, and many believed on the Lord. …” (Acts 9:36 – 37, 40 – 42, NKJV)
Can you see the similarities of their lives and what the Bible Verses specifically highlights namely a life lived in “doing Good Works” and “Charity Works” beyond believing in both cases above?
These Verses all Speak of the same Context without which one cannot be a Disciple of Christ especially Luke 14:33:
“Then Jesus said to His disciples, “If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me.” (Matthew 16:24, NKJV)
“So then, none of you can be My disciple who does not give up all his own possessions.” (Luke 14:33, NASB)
“Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.” (Galatians 6:2, NKJV)
May God Strengthen us to live likewise:
“23Then said one unto him, Lord, are there FEW that be SAVED? And he said unto them, 24Strive to enter in at the strait gate: for MANY, I say unto you, will seek to enter in, and shall NOT be ABLE.” (Luke 13:23 – 24, KJV)
“Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and FEW there be that find it.” (Matthew 7:14, KJV)
Biblical Logic: If a widow and a regular believer like Tabitha is expected to live with such great amounts of Good Works, how much more we too likewise, right?
“8For by GRACE you have been SAVED THROUGH FAITH, and that NOT OF YOURSELVES; it is the GIFT OF GOD, 9NOT OF WORKS, lest anyone should boast. 10For we are His workmanship, CREATED IN CHRIST JESUS for GOOD WORKS, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them.” (Ephesians 2:8 – 10, NKJV)
So, an “unsaved” life will “not” exhibit the ‘Predestination of Good Works’ but merely a life swallowed up by chasing after the ‘things of this world’ (vanity). We are not saved by works but without works our faith is dead too; yes, No one with faith alone can be Saved
“… What does it profit, my brethren, if someone says he has faith but does not have works? Can faith save him?” …” (James 2:14, NKJV)
Note: The Saved thief on the Cross is an example of relative measure because he cannot do any more Good Works which does not contradict these Verses because he still did the only work he could do which is confess Christ before he died.
Peace to you
Charity Doctrine in Religion is Primary in Blessed Prophet Isaiah’s First Vision and Sermon
Did you know that Blessed Prophet Isaiah’s “First” Sermon was about how God didn’t accept a Religion toward Him by the Jews because of “Bloody Hands” primarily pointing due to the lack of “Charity Doctrine”? Yes, that’s how important the “Almsgiving Doctrine” is for “True Religion” of God as it’s detailed out in post below:
https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=10160424142782784&id=651792783
Example Quote:
“… Considered ‘the most powerful and sustained’ prophetic outburst at religious unreality (cf. 1 Samuel 15:22; Jeremiah 7:21–23; Hosea 6:6; Amos 5:21–24; Micah 6:6–8), the vehemence of this prophecy is built up together in its form and content.[22] First, God rejected the offerings, then the offerers (verses 11–12), the specific accusation in the lurid conclusion of verse 15: Your hands are full of blood, followed by the command to ‘have done with evil’ in ‘eight thunderous calls’, ending in the reminder of the life-and-death alternatives similar to Deuteronomy 30:15–20. …”
Source:
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Isaiah_1
Conclusion
Let us consider the Religion which “God Wills” seriously according to these Verses because only those who do His Will make it to the First Resurrection (Matthew 7:18 – 23) as “narrow is the road to life and few find it” (Matthew 7:13 – 15). Please notice that the religion God is rejecting in Isaiah 1 is one that serves Him and “not” foreign gods and also that they have made many converts into Judaism & do regular Sacred Assemblies as verses in Isaiah 1 Reveals.
Here are the Facts in that Prophetic Vision to understand this context better and how it may be similar to today’s Christian Religion in His Name:
1) Those People were Religious in the Right Religion toward the Right God and didn’t serve foreign gods
“… 11“To what purpose is the multitude of your sacrifices to Me?”
Says the Lord.
“I have had enough of burnt offerings of rams
And the fat of fed cattle.
I do not delight in the blood of bulls,
Or of lambs or goats.
12“When you come to appear before Me,
Who has required this from your hand,
To trample My courts?
13Bring no more futile[f] sacrifices;
Incense is an abomination to Me.
The New Moons, the Sabbaths, and the calling of assemblies—
I cannot endure iniquity and the sacred meeting.
14Your New Moons and your appointed feasts
My soul hates;
They are a trouble to Me,
I am weary of bearing them.
…” (Isaiah 1:11 – 14, NKJV)
2) Their Sin was as follows:
i) Rebellious Against “God’s Law”
“… 2Hear, O heavens, and give ear, O earth!
For the Lord has spoken:
“I have nourished and brought up children,
And they have rebelled against Me;
3The ox knows its owner
And the donkey its master’s [a]crib;
But Israel does not know,
My people do not [b]consider.”
4Alas, sinful nation,
A people [c]laden with iniquity,
A [d]brood of evildoers,
Children who are corrupters!
They have forsaken the Lord,
They have provoked to anger
The Holy One of Israel,
They have turned away backward.
…
10Hear the word of the Lord,
You rulers of Sodom;
Give ear to the law of our God,
You people of Gomorrah:
…” (Isaiah 1:2 – 4, 10, NKJV)
ii) Which parts of God’s Law did these people transgress against? Strangely it’s something we as Christians would take lightly too as not so important namely “Social Justice for the Poor/Oppressed” and “Charity Works” only as God does “not” mention any other Law which they broke in verses in Isaiah 1 itself where this Vision ends (Isaiah 2 starts with a new different vision etc.). Isn’t it amazing how we neglect what God considers most serious and think that conversions done religiously without it as great but as the people in Prophet Isaiah’s time erred, we ought to realize that conversions without this proper Doctrine might not work at all. Perhaps that’s why “many” may be rejected on the Day He Returns for such “Lawlessness” (as Matthew 7:18 – 23 Prophesies despite their Conversions done in His Name by ‘casting out Demons’, ‘prophesying’ & ‘other miracles’), Verses:
“… 15When you [g]spread out your hands,
I will hide My eyes from you;
Even though you make many prayers,
I will not hear.
YOUR HANDS ARE FULL OF [H]BLOOD.
… 21How the faithful city has become a [k]harlot!
It was full of justice;
Righteousness lodged in it,
BUT NOW MURDERERS.
22Your silver has become dross,
Your wine mixed with water.
23YOUR PRINCES ARE REBELLIOUS,
AND COMPANIONS OF THIEVES;
EVERYONE LOVES BRIBES,
And FOLLOWS AFTER REWARDS.
They DO NOT DEFEND THE FATHERLESS,
NOR DOES THE CAUSE OF THE WIDOW COME BEFORE THEM. …”
(Isaiah 1:15, 21 – 23, NKJV)
Please notice carefully that such a religion which seeks after “… Earthly Blessings …” i.e. “… Seeks after rewards …” (Isaiah 1:23) is already a “sin” and the “Bloody Hands” (Isaiah 1:15) context immediately refers to “not” defending the Oppressed/Poor, nor helping the fatherless/widow (as Isaiah 1:17 mentions, please see point next) and this is explicitly mentioned in Isaiah 1:23 again in the phrases , “… And FOLLOWS AFTER REWARDS.
They DO NOT DEFEND THE FATHERLESS,
NOR DOES THE CAUSE OF THE WIDOW COME BEFORE THEM. …”.
3) The Hope of Redemption
Please notice carefully in Consecutive Verses below that are quoted in “full” where the famous verse which Christians like to quote (Isaiah 1:18’s Promise of sin like scarlet being washed clean as white as snow) is CONDITIONAL to CHARITY WORKS done first referring to “… Rebuke the oppresor (e.g. speak against those who bully the poor/orphans or equivalent) …”, “… Defend the fatherless …” and “… plead for the widow …” which are all ‘Almsgiving Doctrine’ which is the Primary “… Learn to do Good & Justice Act …” pointed to in these Verses:
“… 16“Wash yourselves, make yourselves clean;
Put away the evil of your doings from before My eyes.
Cease to do evil,
17LEARN TO DO GOOD;
SEEK JUSTICE,
REBUKE [I]THE OPPRESSOR;
[j]DEFEND THE FATHERLESS,
PLEAD FOR THE WIDOW.
18“Come now, and let us reason together,”
Says the Lord,
“THOUGH YOUR SINS ARE LIKE SCARLET,
THEY SHALL BE AS WHITE AS SNOW;
Though they are red like crimson,
They shall be as wool.
19IF YOU ARE WILLING AND OBEDIENT,
You shall eat the good of the land;
20But if you refuse and rebel,
You shall be devoured by the sword”;
For the mouth of the Lord has spoken. …”
(Isaiah 1:16 – 20, NKJV)
Please notice the phrase “… 19IF YOU ARE WILLING AND OBEDIENT …” (Isaiah 1:19) which means the “washing of sins” away is “conditional to the Charity Doctrine done first” as this is the only righteous act mentioned literally in these Verses, nothing else in the phrases “…17LEARN TO DO GOOD; SEEK JUSTICE, REBUKE [I]THE OPPRESSOR; [j]DEFEND THE FATHERLESS, PLEAD FOR THE WIDOW. …” (Isaiah 1:17) where if you do that, this is promised “… “THOUGH YOUR SINS ARE LIKE SCARLET, THEY SHALL BE AS WHITE AS SNOW; …” (Isaiah 1:18) as the Context of Consecutive Verses Prove so clearly ‘as it is Written’. Can you see it? For those who think otherwise, please point to one other ‘religious act’ which God Points to ‘specifically’ in these Consecutive Verses which points as a condition to this promise of forgiveness of sins? There’s none other than these, right?
We have already discussed that aspect in detail linking it to Christ’s Own Most Blessed Words regarding how the Charity Doctrine is linked to the removal of the Judgment of Sins part in light of Verses such as Luke 7:47 and Luke 11:41 or in Matthew 25:31 – 46’s Judgment Day Verses too where Judgment is removed only for those who did the Charity Works or Equivalent toward mankind in the aspect of “… I was hungry, thirsty, naked, homeless …” And the righteous Practiced “… Giving food, water, clothes, sharing their home …” with these as it’s detailed in a previous posts in links below:
i) Christ Explains Almsgiving that by Loving much in Action forgives the Judgment of Sins
https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=10160459760312784&id=651792783
ii) Mystery of the Sheep – Almsgiving is Greater than All other Virtues
https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=10160459058137784&id=651792783
“… 14[c]Because narrow is the gate and [d]difficult is the way which leads to life, and there are few who find it. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 7:14, NKJV)
The New Testament definition of True Religion agrees in that “Charity Doctrine” (i.e. helping orphans and widows) + “keeping oneself unspotted from the World” (e.g. keeping holy and not seeking Worldly things as the Prosperity Gospel errs in promoting seeking these) which may be the way to avoid “Lawlessness” in full, Verses:
“… 27Pure and undefiled religion before God and the Father is this: to visit orphans and widows in their trouble, and to keep oneself unspotted from the world. …” (James 1:27, NKJV)
“… 21“Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father in heaven. 22MANY will say to Me in that day, ‘Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in Your name, cast out demons in Your name, and done many wonders in Your name?’ 23And then I will declare to them, ‘I never knew you; depart from Me, you who practice LAWLESSNESS!’ …” (Matthew 7:21 – 23, NKJV)
“… Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. …” (1 John 2:15, NKJV)
The remaining unquoted Verses in Isaiah 1 strangely doesn’t mention any other sin (if you find it, please let me know) making this Context complete within the Vision of Isaiah 1 itself. The remaining Verses repeat God’s Frustration in His People choosing leaders who are “not” interested in this Social Justice aspect and loving Earthly Prosperity instead via bribes or seeking Earthly Rewards via the Sacred Assemblies & Sabbaths (Isaiah 1:13), Religious Gatherings or Feasts (Isaiah 1:14), long Prayers (Isaiah 1:15), fastings (the Septuagint includes this for Isaiah 1:14) and Sacrifices (Isaiah 1:11). A religion which sounds familiar, doesn’t it? If God rejects such a Religion in the Past and Accepts only a “Charity Doctrine” Religion which does that, isn’t He the “Same God”? Here’s the Warning of “unquenchable fire” to those who do “not” want to embrace the “Charity Doctrine” God Requires in these Verses discussed prior which sounds similar to Christ’s Own Most Blessed Words toward the “Wicked” on Judgment Day who likewise are cast into the fire for neglecting these works (Matthew 25:31 – 46):
“… 27ZION SHALL BE REDEEMED WITH JUSTICE,
AND HER [O]PENITENTS WITH RIGHTEOUSNESS.
28The DESTRUCTION OF TRANSGRESSORS and of SINNERS SHALL BE TOGETHER,
And THOSE WHO FORSAKE THE LORD SHALL BE CONSUMED.
29For [p]they shall be ashamed of the [q]terebinth trees
Which you have desired;
And you shall be embarrassed because of the gardens
WHICH YOU HAVE CHOSEN.
30For you shall be as a terebinth whose leaf fades,
And as a garden that has no water.
31The strong shall be as tinder,
And the work of it as a spark;
BOTH WILL BURN TOGETHER,
AND NO ONE SHALL QUENCH THEM. …” (Isaiah 1:27 – 31, NKJV)
Source:
https://biblehub.com/nkjv/isaiah/1.htm
The Septuagint reads similarly:
“… 26And I will establish thy judges as before, and thy counsellors as at the beginning: and afterward thou shalt be called the city of righteousness, the faithful mother-city of Sion. 27For HER CAPTIVES SHALL BE SAVED WITH JUDGEMENT, AND WITH MERCY. 28And the transgressors and the sinners shall be crushed together, and THEY THAT FORSAKE THE LORD SHALL BE UTTERLY CONSUMED. 29For they shall be ashamed of their idols, which they delighted in, and they are made ashamed of the gardens which they coveted. 30For they shall be as a turpentine tree that has cast its leaves, and as a garden that has no water.
31And their strength shall be as a thread of tow, and THEIR WORKS AS SPARKS, AND THE TRANSGRESSORS AND THE SINNERS SHALL BE BURNT UP and there shall be NONE TO QUENCH THEM. …” (Isaiah 1:26 – 31, LXX, Brenton Septuagint Translation)
Source:
https://biblehub.com/sep/isaiah/1.htm
Peace to you
Christ Explains Almsgiving that by Loving much in Action forgives the Judgment of Sins
“… Be not a stretcher forth of the hands to receive and a drawer of them back to give. IF YOU HAVE ANYTHING, THROUGH YOUR HANDS YOU SHALL GIVE RANSOM FOR YOUR SINS. Do not hesitate to give, nor complain when you give; for you shall know who is the good repayer of the hire. Do not turn away from him who is in want; rather, share all things with your brother, and do not say that they are your own. …” – The Didache or the Teaching of the Lord through His Twelve Apostles to the Nations (Chapter 4)
Source: http://www.earlychristianwritings.com/text/didache-roberts.html
“… 6 Then he said to them SECRETLY: Bless ye the God of heaven, give glory to him in the sight of all that live, because he hath shewn his mercy to you. 7 For it is good to hide the secret of a king: but honourable to reveal and confess the works of God. 8 PRAYER IS GOOD WITH FASTING AND ALMS MORE THAN to lay up treasures of gold: 9 For ALMS DELIVERETH from DEATH, and the same is that which PURGETH AWAY SINS, and maketh to FIND MERCY AND LIFE EVERLASTING. … 15 For I am the angel RAPHAEL, one of the seven who stand before the Lord. …” (Bible Scripture.Net Translation, Tobit 12:6 – 9, 15)
Source: https://biblescripture.net/Tobias.html
“… When YOU CAN DO GOOD, DEFER IT NOT, because “ALMS DELIVERS FROM DEATH. [Tobit 12:9]” …” – Blessed St. Polycarp, Bishop of Smryna, an Apostolic Father being the Disciple of the Blessed St. John the Apostle who wrote the Book of Revelation (c. 69 AD – c. 155 A, Chapter X, Epistle to the Philippians)
Source: http://www.earlychristianwritings.com/text/polycarp-roberts.html
Note: St. Polycarp and the Didache both Quote “Almsgiving” Verses from “Tobit” or Sirach.
Conclusion
Note: The Almsgiving Doctrine does “not” need to depend on the Book of Tobit at all. The Bible itself reveals it as follows:
“… Wherefore, O king, let my counsel be acceptable unto thee, and BREAK OFF THY SINS BY RIGHTEOUSNESS, and THINE INIQUITIES BY SHEWING MERCY TO THE POOR; if it may be a lengthening of thy tranquillity. …” – Blessed and Holy Prophet Daniel (Daniel 4:27, KJV based on the Masoretic Text)
Source: https://biblehub.com/daniel/4-27.htm
Compare:
” … 27Therefore, O king, let my counsel please thee, and ATONE FOR THY SINS BY ALMS, and THINE INIQUITIES BY COMPASSION ON THE POOR: it may be God will be long-suffering to thy trespasses.” … – Blessed and Holy Prophet Daniel (Daniel 4:27, Brenton Septuagint Translation, based on the Septuagint or LXX)
Source: https://biblehub.com/sep/daniel/4.htm
Comment: The phrase “… God will be long-suffering to thy trespasses …” implies the Context of ‘Judgment of Sins’ is removed.
Yes, each of the above quotes has to do with What Christ Himself Commanded in Luke 11:41 below:
“… But WHAT YE HAVE GIVE YE AS ALMS, and, lo, ALL THINGS are CLEAN TO YOU. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Young’s Literal Translation, Luke 11:41, YLT)
“… But now as for WHAT IS INSIDE YOU–be GENEROUS TO THE POOR, and EVERYTHING WILL BE CLEAN FOR YOU. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 11:41, NIV)
Christ did “not” Say that any ‘other action’ may be substituted for it and please note in Luke 11:41 that this is exactly what the Pharisees ‘failed’ to do though they did charity with Temple money & tithes but not including their own money (Matthew 6:2). It’s secret may be linked to Verse below because “Love” meant is certainly “Love in Action” and “cover sins” is certainly escaping the ‘Judgment of Sins’ because only the Blood of Christ can remove sin & its stain completely but Judgment of Sins can be “covered” by “Almsgiving”, Verses:
“… 41But rather GIVE ALMS of SUCH THINGS AS YOU HAVE; then indeed ALL THINGS ARE CLEAN TO YOU. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 11:41, NKJV)
“… And above all things have fervent love for one another, for “LOVE will COVER a MULTITUDE OF SINS.” …”(1 Peter 4:8, NKJV)
“… 1{A Psalm of David, Maschil.} Blessed is he whose TRANSGRESSION IS FORGIVEN, WHOSE SIN IS COVERED. 2Blessed is the man unto whom the LORD IMPUTETH NOT INIQUITY, and in whose spirit there is no guile. …” (Psalm 32:1 – 2, NKJV)
“… Therefore I say to you, HER SINS, which are MANY, ARE FORGIVEN, for SHE LOVED MUCH. But to whom little is forgiven, the same loves little. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 7:47, NKJV)
“… 16By this we know love, because He laid down His life for us. And we also ought to lay down our lives for the brethren. 17But whoever has this world’s goods, and sees his brother in need, and shuts up his heart from him, how does the love of God abide in him? 18My little children, let us not LOVE IN WORD OR IN TONGUE, but IN DEED AND IN TRUTH. …” (1 John 3:16 – 18, NKJV)
If Christ’s Own Most Blessed Words have Directly Implied the “Forgiveness of Sin” (the judgment part) due to “she loved much” in Luke 7:47 above (refering to a loving lifestyle in action as God Won’t be impressed by Love in Words, 1 John 3:16 – 18) why do we not believe it as “this Reason” is Given by God in Flesh Himself in Luke 7:47 above? Can you see it as it is Written?
Peace to you
Mystery of the Sheep – Almsgiving is Greater than All other Virtues
Please take note that in Judgment Day Verses below, CHRIST THE KING of Kings “only” Speaks of “Almsgiving/Charity” Context. Yes, He does “not” ask how many hours one prayed or how well did one keep holy or how much Church attendance or fasting one did or even how many people you converted? Why? Because without Practicing the “Charity Doctrine” other righteousness have little to no value as the earlier post using Verses in Isaiah clearly Reveals “God’s Will” in this (yes, if you do Almsgiving, God Will be interested in your other religious Sacrifices or Activities & Vice Versa):
https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=10160424142782784&id=651792783
Conclusion – Bible Verses:
“… 31“When the Son of Man comes in His glory, and all the [c]holy angels with Him, then He will sit on the throne of His glory. 32All the nations will be gathered before Him, and He will separate them one from another, as a shepherd divides his sheep from the goats. 33And He will set the sheep on His right hand, but the goats on the left. 34Then the King will say to those on His right hand, ‘Come, you blessed of My Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world: 35for I was hungry and you gave Me food; I was thirsty and you gave Me drink; I was a stranger and you took Me in; 36I was naked and you clothed Me; I was sick and you visited Me; I was in prison and you came to Me.’
37“Then the righteous will answer Him, saying, ‘Lord, when did we see You hungry and feed You, or thirsty and give You drink? 38When did we see You a stranger and take You in, or naked and clothe You? 39Or when did we see You sick, or in prison, and come to You?’ 40And the King will answer and say to them, ‘Assuredly, I say to you, inasmuch as you did it to one of the least of these My brethren, you did it to Me.’ 41“Then He will also say to those on the left hand, ‘Depart from Me, you cursed, into the everlasting fire prepared for the devil and his angels: 42for I was hungry and you gave Me no food; I was thirsty and you gave Me no drink; 43I was a stranger and you did not take Me in, naked and you did not clothe Me, sick and in prison and you did not visit Me.’ 44“Then they also will answer [d]Him, saying, ‘Lord, when did we see You hungry or thirsty or a stranger or naked or sick or in prison, and did not minister to You?’ 45Then He will answer them, saying, ‘Assuredly, I say to you, inasmuch as you did not do it to one of the least of these, you did not do it to Me.’ 46And these will go away into everlasting punishment, but the righteous into eternal life.” …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 25:31 – 46, NKJV)
Peace to you
Spiritual Gifts Mystery – Which Matters Most? Mystery of the Greatest Gift of All
The entire Pentecostal movement grew out of the desire for the Gift of Speaking in tongues, healing and casting out of demons quoting Mark 16:17 – 18 to prove that this is the most important part of Salvation. Let’s examine this with First Christianity and Scripture as follows:
1) First Christianity
“… With good reason did He say to all of us together, when we were perfected concerning those gifts which were given from Him by the Spirit: Now these signs shall follow them that have believed in my name: they shall cast out devils; they shall speak with new tongues; they shall take up serpents; and if they drink any deadly thing, it shall by no means hurt them: they shall lay their hands on the sick, and they shall recover. Mark 16:17-18 These gifts were first bestowed on us the apostles when we were about to preach the Gospel to every creature, and afterwards were of necessity afforded to those who had by our means believed; not for the advantage of those who perform them, but for the conviction of the unbelievers, that those whom the word did not persuade, the power of signs might put to shame: for signs are not for us who believe, but for the unbelievers, both for the Jews and Gentiles. … Now we say these things, that those who have received such gifts may not exalt themselves against those who have not received them; such gifts, we mean, as are for the working of miracles. For otherwise there is no man who has believed in God through Christ, that has not received some spiritual gift: … Let not, therefore, any one that works signs and wonders judge any one of the faithful who is not vouchsafed the same: for the gifts of God which are bestowed by Him through Christ are various; and one man receives one gift, and another another. For perhaps one has the word of wisdom, and another the word of knowledge; another, discerning of spirits; another, foreknowledge of things to come; another, the word of teaching; another, long-suffering; another, continence according to the law: for even Moses, the man of God, when he wrought signs in Egypt, did not exalt himself against his equals: and when he was called a god, he did not arrogantly despise his own prophet Aaron. … Nor did Samuel, who had done so many surprising things, disregard David the beloved of God: yet they were both prophets, and the one was high priest, and the other was king. … And to be a Christian is in our own power; but to be an apostle, or a bishop, or in any other such office, is not in our own power, but at the disposal of God, who bestows the gifts. And thus much concerning those who are vouchsafed gifts and dignities. …” – Apostolic Constitutions Book VIII (Section 1. On the Diversity of Spiritual Gifts, On Whose Account the Powers of Miracles are Performed)
Source:
https://www.newadvent.org/fathers/07158.htm
What is this Book?
“… The Apostolic Constitutions or Constitutions of the Holy Apostles (Latin: Constitutiones Apostolorum) is a Christian collection of eight treatises which belongs to the Church Orders, a genre of early Christian literature, that offered authoritative “apostolic” prescriptions on moral conduct, liturgy and Church organization.[1] The work can be dated from 375 to 380 AD. The provenance is usually regarded as Syria, probably Antioch.[2] The author is unknown, even if since James Ussher it was considered to be the same author of the letters of Pseudo-Ignatius, perhaps the 4th-century Eunomian bishop Julian of Cilicia …”
Source:
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Apostolic_Constitutions
2) Holy Scripture
“… 27Now you are the body of Christ, and members individually. 28And God has appointed these in the church: first apostles, second prophets, third teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of healings, helps, administrations, varieties of tongues. 29Are all apostles? Are all prophets? Are all teachers? Are ALL WORKERS OF MIRACLES? 30DO ALL HAVE GIFTS OF HEALINGS? DO ALL SPEAK WITH TONGUES? Do all interpret? 31But earnestly desire the [i]best gifts. And YET I SHOW YOU A MORE EXCELLENT WAY. …” (1 Corinthians 12:27 – 30, NKJV)
The Bible Verses above clearly imply these two things:
i) “not” all the faithful will do these Miracles , Healings nor Speak in tongues
ii) There is a more “excellent way” which has nothing to do with these gifts (a Great Bible Secret) – What is it? (The next Verses which begin the next Chapter clearly Reveals Apostle St. Paul Talking about “Agape/God’s Love” as the Greatest Gift)
“… But earnestly desire the best gifts. And yet I show you A MORE EXCELLENT WAY [of Agape, Love of God]. … 1Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I have become sounding brass or a clanging cymbal. 2And though I have the gift of prophecy, and understand all mysteries and all knowledge, and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, but have not love, I am nothing. 3And though I bestow all my goods to feed the poor, and though I give my body [a]to be burned, but have not love, it profits me nothing. … And now abide faith, hope, love, these three; but the GREATEST OF THESE IS LOVE. … ” – The Wise and Gifted Blessed St. Paul the Apostle (1 Corinthians 12:31, 1 Corinthians 13:1 – 3, 13, NKJV)
How to Practice this MORE EXCELLENT WAY than all those Spiritual Gifts earlier? Blessed Apostle St. Paul continues:
“… 4Love suffers long and is kind; love does not envy; love does not parade itself, is not [b]puffed up; 5does not behave rudely, does not seek its own, is not provoked, [c]thinks no evil; 6does not rejoice in iniquity, but rejoices in the truth; 7bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. 8Love never fails. But whether there are prophecies, they will fail; whether there are tongues, they will cease; whether there is knowledge, it will vanish away. 9For we know in part and we prophesy in part. 10But when that which is [d]perfect has come, then that which is in part will be done away. …” (1 Corinthians 13:4 – 10, NKJV)
First Christianity Example of Agape/Love of God in Practice:
“… Who then among you is noble-minded? who compassionate? who full of love? Let him declare, “If on my account sedition and disagreement and schisms have arisen, I will depart, I will go away whithersoever you desire, and I will do whatever the majority commands; only let the flock of Christ live on terms of peace with the presbyters set over it.” He that acts thus shall procure to himself great glory in the Lord; and every place will welcome him. For “the earth is the Lord’s, and the fulness thereof.” These things they who live a godly life, that is never to be repented of, both have done and always will do. … ” – Blessed St. Clement of Rome, an Apostolic Father being a direct Disciple of the Blessed Apostle St. Peter (c.35 AD – c. 99 AD, 1 Clement Chapter 54)
Source [CHAPTER 54 — HE WHO IS FULL OF LOVE WILL INCUR EVERY LOSS, THAT PEACE MAY BE RESTORED TO THE CHURCH]:
http://www.earlychristianwritings.com/text/1clement-roberts.html
This is the main reason why ‘we don’t believe in forming our own church even if we are right’ but as Blessed St. Clement of Rome commands in his apostolic authority, “… I will do whatever the majority commands …” even if it includes being kicked out of the church, i.e. “… If on my account sedition and disagreement and schisms have arisen, I will depart, I will go away whithersoever you desire …” as long as the Majority of Christians is happy [i.e. “… only let the flock of Christ live on terms of peace with the presbyters set over it …”] & this is not in reference of a heretic being put off from a Church but is referring to a True Christian as “… These things they who live a godly life, that is never to be repented of, both have done and always will do …” because these belong to “… Who then among you is noble-minded? who compassionate? who full of love? …” where their reward of leaving Church is not eternal hell but amazingly, “… He that acts thus shall procure to himself great glory in the Lord; and every place will welcome him …” . Are we behaving in such a manner or forming Churches in every corner causing Schisms after Schisms?
Are the leaders who form schisms better than St. Clement of Rome?
Agape/Love is the Greatest being even Greater than Faith according to 1 Corinthians 13:13 earlier. The Bible also records the following warning:
1. An ‘all right accurate faith which can move mountains’ (as only an Right Doctrine Faith can move mountains) can still be present in a person with “no” Agape/Love of God:
“… and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, but have not love, I am nothing. …” (1 Corinthians 13:2, NKJV)
2. A Christian can die a martyr or even do missions work till they give all their goods to the poor but still have “no” Agape/Love of God:
“… 3And though I bestow all my goods to feed the poor, and though I give my body [a]to be burned, but have not love, it profits me nothing. …” (1 Corinthians 13:3, NKJV)
Summary
“… 20If someone says, “I love God,” and hates his brother, he is a liar; for he who does not love his brother whom he has seen, [d]how can he love God whom he has not seen? 21And this commandment we have from Him: that he who loves God must love his brother also. …” (1 John 4:20 – 21, NKJV)
However, it is also true that all Doctrine regarding the MOST EXCELLENT WAY OF AGAPE must INCLUDE ALMSGIVING, CHARITY WORKS and SHARING WORKS because AGAPE/LOVE meant here needs to be in ACTION and NOT WORDS ONLY and MATERIALISTICALLY & TANGIBLY:
“… 16BY THIS WE KNOW LOVE, because He laid down His life for us. And we also ought to LAY DOWN OUR LIVES for the brethren. 17But whoever HAS THIS WORLD’S GOODS, and sees his brother in need, and SHUTS UP HIS HEART FROM HIM, HOW does the LOVE OF GOD ABIDE IN HIM? 18My little children, let us NOT LOVE IN WORD or IN TONGUE, but IN DEED AND IN TRUTH. …” – Blessed St. John the only non-martyr Apostle of Christ (1 John 3:16 – 18, NKJV)
In short, every way of Agape-Christianity must include Charity Works and Sharing/Giving but “not” every act of charity works is necessarily of Agape/Love of God (Let God Alone Judge which is which).
Yet, again we see the Almsgiving/Charity Doctrine as the Pillar in the Way of Agape too without it “speaking in tongues” or “worshipping God” with the voices of angels itself or with “all faith” (not some faith) or other religious activities itself including “Prophesying” is pointless, Verses:
“… 1Though I speak with the TONGUES OF MEN AND OF ANGELS, but HAVE NOT LOVE, I have become sounding brass or a clanging cymbal. 2And though I have the GIFT OF PROPHECY, and understand all mysteries and all knowledge, and though I HAVE ALL FAITH, so that I could remove mountains, but HAVE NOT LOVE, I AM NOTHING. …” (1 Corinthians 13:1 – 2, NKJV)
I do strongly believe that the Great Denial of Christ toward “Many” who “Prophesied”, “Cast out Demons” and did other “Miracles” in “His Name” were rejected due to “Lawlessness” to certainly include especially this error of “not” having Agape/Love of God.
“… 14[c]Because narrow is the gate and [d]difficult is the way which leads to life, and there are few who find it. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 7:14, NKJV)
The Narrow Path to life must certainly include this WAY OF AGAPE, right?
P/S: Now Christ’s Words below can be understood in this Context of “Perfection”:
“… GIVE to the POOR, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, FOLLOW ME.” 22But when the young man heard that saying, he went away SORROWFUL, for he had GREAT POSSESSIONS.23Then Jesus said to His disciples, “Assuredly, I say to you that it is HARD for a RICH MAN TO ENTER THE KINGDOM OF HEAVEN. 24And AGAIN I say to you, it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God. … 27Then Peter answered and said to Him, “See, we have LEFT ALL and FOLLOWED YOU. Therefore what shall we have?” … 28So Jesus said to them, “Assuredly I say to you, that in the REGENERATION, when the Son of Man sits on the throne of His glory, you who have followed Me will also sit on twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel. 29And EVERYONE who has LEFT HOUSES or brothers or sisters or father or mother or wife or children or LANDS, for MY NAME’S SAKE, shall RECEIVE a HUNDREDFOLD, and INHERIT ETERNAL LIFE. 30But MANY who are FIRST will be LAST, and the LAST FIRST. …” (Matthew 19:20 – 24, 27 – 30, NKJV)
Please notice the word “Hundredfold” in Matthew 19:29 above referring to the parable of the Sower’s ‘thirty, sixty or hundredfold’ harvest Matthew 13:8. Please notice carefully also that the emphasis of Christ’s Own Most Blessed Words toward being “Perfect” (Matthew 19:21) toward a rich man who kept the Torah/Law/Holiness well (Matthew 19:20) is in the direction or emphasis of actual physical renunciation of possessions or riches for the Gospel, that is, in becoming “Blessed are the poor” in the Context of ‘physically poor voluntarily’.
Prayer Warriors, Fasting Champions & Worship Heroes Vs Almsgiving/Charity Workers – Which is more important?
Blessed Prophet Isaiah (the “Real” Prophet o the ‘Most Blessed Great I AM’) “compares” these as follows under the Inspiration of the Most Blessed Holy Spirit:
“… 10Hear the WORD OF THE LORD,
You RULERS OF SODOM;
GIVE EAR to the LAW OF OUR GOD,
You PEOPLE OF GOMORRAH:
11“To what PURPOSE is the MULTITUDE OF YOUR SACRIFICES TO ME?”
Says the Lord.
“I have had enough of burnt offerings of rams
And the fat of fed cattle.
I do not delight in the blood of bulls,
Or of lambs or goats.
12“When you come to appear before Me,
Who has required this from your hand,
To trample My courts?
13Bring no more futile[f] sacrifices;
Incense is an abomination to Me.
The New Moons, the Sabbaths, and the CALLING OF ASSEMBLIES—
I CANNOT ENDURE INIQUITY and THE SACRED MEETING.
14Your New Moons and your appointed feasts
MY SOUL HATES;
They are a trouble to Me,
I am weary of bearing them.
15When you [g]spread out your hands,
I will hide My eyes from you;
Even though YOU MAKE MANY PRAYERS
I WILL NOT HEAR.
Your HANDS ARE FULL OF [H]BLOOD.
16“Wash yourselves, make yourselves clean;
Put away the evil of your doings from before My eyes.
Cease to do evil,
17LEARN TO DO GOOD;
Seek justice,
REBUKE [I]THE OPPRESSOR;
[j]DEFEND THE FATHERLESS,
PLEAD FOR THE WIDOW. …” (Isaiah 1:10 – 17, NKJV)
Source:
https://biblehub.com/nkjv/isaiah/1.htm
The Septuagint reads the same for these Verses (link at the end), so let’s use it to compare these as the Bible Compares these and so we ought to likewise:
1) Prayer, Fasting, Worship, Sacrifices and religious assemblies
“… 11Of WHAT VALUE TO ME is the ABUNDANCE OF YOUR SACRIFICES? SAITH THE LORD: I am full of whole-burnt-offerings of rams; and I delight not in the fat of lambs, and the blood of bulls and goats:
12neither shall ye come with these to appear before me; for who has required these things at your hands? Ye shall no more tread my court. … 14YOUR FASTING, and rest from work, your new moons also, and your feasts MY SOUL HATES: ye have become loathsome to me; I will no more pardon your sins. 15When YE STRETCH FORTH YOUR HANDS, I will turn away mine eyes from you: and though YE MAKE MANY SUPPLICATIONS, I WILL NOT HEARKEN TO YOU; for your hands are full of blood. …” (Isaiah 1:11 – 12, 14 – 15, LXX, Brenton Septuagint Translation)
Source:
https://biblehub.com/sep/isaiah/1.htm
So, what “blood” was in their hands of which God was so Angry and hated their Religion / Conversions even though it’s done in His Name? Failure to do “Charity Works” already implies “Blood” in our hands as “God Himself” Answers thus:
“… for YOUR HANDS ARE FULL OF BLOOD. 16Wash you, be clean; remove your iniquities from your souls before mine eyes; cease from your iniquities; 17LEARN TO DO WELL; diligently seek judgement, DELIVER HIM THAT IS SUFFERING WRONG, PLEAD FOR THE ORPHAN, and OBTAIN JUSTICE FOR THE WIDOW …” (Isaiah 1:15 – 17, LXX, Brenton Septuagint Translation)
Source:
https://biblehub.com/sep/isaiah/1.htm
Brief definition here:
1. “… DELIVER HIM THAT IS SUFFERING WRONG …” = “… REBUKE [I]THE OPPRESSOR; …” = Speak against Property Gospel type of Hoarding and non-sharing including speaking against the perverse business ways of this World even though it is legal.
2. “… PLEAD FOR THE ORPHAN, and OBTAIN JUSTICE FOR THE WIDOW …” = “… DEFEND THE FATHERLESS, PLEAD FOR THE WIDOW. …” = Do Charity Works or contribute to it, encourage others to do so likewise, and speak against charity workers who abuse the children etc.
Conclusion
“… But the hour is coming, and now is, when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth; for the Father is seeking such to worship Him. …” (John 4:23, NKJV)
Combining these Verses of the Same Context, it is clear that “True Worship/Prayer/Fasting” only occurs and is acceptable to God when it includes the “True Religion” of ‘keeping oneself unspotted/holy from the World’ and “taking care of the poor especially the Orphans and Widows”, Verse:
“… 27Pure and undefiled religion before God and the Father is this: to visit orphans and widows in their trouble, and to keep oneself unspotted from the world. …” (James 1:27, NKJV)
Until then God is “not” interested in our prayers, worship nor fastings. It is also possible that the amount of Charity Works we do determines how much of prayer/fasting/Worship from us that God Accepts. If we have our prayers answered in prosperity without doing these, it’s probably “not” God Who is Answering the prayers then, as verse below reveals:
“… 3For I was envious of the boastful, When I saw the prosperity of the wicked. 4For there are no pangs in their death, But their strength is firm. 5They are not in trouble as other men, Nor are they plagued like other men. … 7Their eyes bulge with abundance; They have more than heart could wish. … 12Behold, these are the ungodly, Who are always at ease; They increase in riches. …” (Psalms 73:3 – 5, 7, 12, NKJV)
Can you see it?
Please be careful of believing your faith according to Bible Verses and by not doing so, we may become the ‘lawless many’ who are Denied as He Says “… I never knew you …” despite practising a Religion in His Name with “casting out Demons”, “Prophesying” and “doing miracles” but without the Focus on the Charity Doctrine as these Verses clearly demonstrate, it may not be of the God of the Bible as Matthew 7:18 – 23 Prophesies. May God have Mercy on whomever He Wills. Well done to those Believers who are Practising this Charity Doctrine!
Who is the “Great I AM”? Unfathomable but He includes Being this:
“… A father of the fatherless, a defender of widows, Is God in His holy habitation …” (Psalm 68:5, NKJV)
Almsgiving and Charity better than being Religious in Praying, Fasting and Worshipping Mystery
Any Religious Activity from Prayer, Fasting to Worship which is “not” accompanied with the ‘actions’ of helping others in real life is probably unheard or of very very little value as these “Bible Verses” imply:
1) Prayer and Fasting have little to no value unless it is accompanied by “Almsgiving” or “Charity Works” or equivalent “Sharing” .(Verses detailed below, next).
2) Worship and Church Attendance has little to no value unless ‘Judgment’ of “Charity Works” toward the “Poor, Widow, Orphans and the Afflicted” is Done too, (Verses detailed out next too).
Conclusion
Please allow me to repeat with “Verses” attached:
1) Prayer and Fasting have little to no value unless it is accompanied by “Almsgiving” or “Charity Works” or equivalent “Sharing” Verses:
The Question
“… ‘Why have WE FASTED,’ they say, ‘and YOU HAVE NOT SEEN? Why have WE AFFLICTED OUR SOULS, and YOU TAKE NO NOTICE?’ …” (Isaiah 58:3, NKJV)
Part of the Answer (God’s Reply):
“… 7Is it not to SHARE YOUR BREAD with the HUNGRY,
And that you bring to your house THE POOR who are cast out;
When you see THE NAKED, that you cover him,
And not hide yourself from YOUR OWN FLESH?
8Then YOUR LIGHT shall break forth like the MORNING,
YOUR HEALING shall spring forth speedily,
And your righteousness shall go before you;
The glory of the Lord shall be your rear guard.
9Then you shall call, and the Lord will answer;
You shall cry, and He will say, ‘Here I am.’ …” (Isaiah 58:7 – 9, NKJV)2) Worship and Church Attendance has little to no value unless ‘Judgment’ of “Charity Works” toward the “Poor, Widow, Orphans and the Afflicted” is Done too, Verses:
“… 21“I HATE, I despise your feast days,
And I do NOT SAVOR your SACRED ASSEMBLIES.
22Though you offer Me burnt offerings and your grain offerings, I will NOT ACCEPT them, NOR will I regard your fattened peace offerings.
23TAKE AWAY from Me the NOISE of YOUR SONGS,
For I will NOT HEAR the MELODY of your STRINGED INSTRUMENTS. 24But let JUSTICE run down like water, And RIGHTEOUSNESS like a mighty stream. …” (Amos 5:21 – 24, NKJV)Next, What “justice” and “righteousness” is God Referring to in Verses above, political parties & their rich men or hidden racist agendas? Nope. Only JUSTICE and RIGHTEOUSNESS to the POOR is Written in these Consecutive Verses prior (“Context”) – yes, on Judgment Day itself Christ is only interested with how we treat the poor (Matthew 25:31-46’s When I was hungry, thirsty, naked…)
“… 10They HATE the one who REBUKES in the gate,
And they ABHOR the one who SPEAKS UPRIGHTLY.
11Therefore, BECAUSE YOU TREAD DOWN THE POOR
And take grain taxes from him,
Though you have built houses of hewn stone,
Yet you shall not dwell in them;
You have planted pleasant vineyards,
But you shall not drink wine from them.
12For I know YOUR MANIFOLD TRANSGRESSIONS
And YOUR MIGHTY SINS:
AFFLICTING THE JUST and TAKING BRIBES;
DIVERTING THE POOR FROM JUSTICE at the gate. …” (Amos 5:10 – 12, NKJV)Source:
https://biblehub.com/nkjv/amos/5.htm
Again, it’s the “Charity Doctrine”. Truly, nothing else matters for works of faith. Please notice verse 10 where the Verse states that “they” who Practice all these “sacred assemblies, worship etc.” will HATE the one who speaks this TRUTH regarding JUSTICE and RIGHTEOUSNESS to the POOR. Please notice in Verse 11 that by God’s Standards, one ‘cannot’ tax the poor (In Malaysia this is Practiced since no income tax for low income individuals of less than RM 3000 per month, God Bless Malaysia). Verse 12 means they refuse to help the Poor by leading them away. It’s obvious that these are relative measures and the ones having more money or collecting money in God’s Name must help the poor (with ‘sacred assemblies & worship’ mentioned above) while the rest give what they can (Luke 21:1 – 4) as more is given, more is demanded (Luke 12:46 – 48) as Judgment awaits in the afterlife (Luke 16:19 – 31). Relative Measure itself makes the “Prosperity Gospel” accountable and more dangerous.
Did First Christianity understand it likewise? – This First “Jewish” Christianity Quote might be True indeed:
“… 2Clem 16:1 Therefore, brethren, since we have found no small opportunity for repentance, seeing that we have time, let us turn again unto God that
called us, while we have still One that receiveth us.2Clem 16:2 For if we bid farewell to these enjoyments and conquer our soul in refusing to fulfill its evil lusts, we shall be partakers of the mercy of Jesus. 2Clem 16:3 But ye know that the day of judgment cometh even now as a burning
oven, and the powers of the heavens shall melt, and all the earth as lead melting on the fire, and then shall appear the secret and open works of men. 2Clem 16:4 ALMSGIVING therefore is a good thing, EVEN AS REPENTANCE FROM SIN> FASTING IS BETTER THAN PRAYER, but ALMSGIVING BETTER THAN BOTH. And LOVE COVERETH A MULTITUDE OF SINS, but prayer out of a good conscience delivereth from death. BLESSED IS EVERY MAN that is FOUND FULL OF THESE. For ALMSGIVING LIFTETH OFF THE BURDEN OF SIN. 2Clem 17:1 Let us therefore repent with our whole heart, lest any of us perish by the way. For if we have received commands, that we should make this our business, to tear men away from idols and to instruct them, how much more is it wrong that a soul which knoweth God already should perish! …” (2 Clement, Attributed to Blessed St. Clement of Rome, a direct Disciple of the Blessed Apostle St. Peter, c.35 AD – c. 99 AD)Source:
http://www.earlychristianwritings.com/text/2clement-lightfoot.html
P/S: The Septuagint reads the same for these Verses:
“… 3saying, Why have WE FASTED, and THOU REGARDEST NOT? why have WE AFFLICTED OUR SOULS, and THOU DIDST NOT KNOW IT? … 5I have not chosen this fast, nor such a day for a man to afflict his soul; neither though thou shouldest bend down thy neck as a ring, and spread under thee sackcloth and ashes, neither thus shall ye call a fast acceptable. 6I have NOT CHOSEN SUCH A FAST, SAITH THE LORD; but do thou loose every burden of iniquity, do thou untie the knots of hard bargains, set the bruised free, and CANCEL EVERY UNJUST ACCOUNT. 7BREAK THY BREAD TO THE HUNGRY, and LEAD THE UNSHELTERED POOR TO THY HOUSE: if THOU SEEST ONE NAKED, CLOTHE HIM, and thou shalt NOT DISREGARD THE RELATIONS OF THINE OWN SEED. … 8Then shall thy light break forth as the morning, and thy health shall speedily spring forth: and thy righteousness shall go before thee, and the glory of God shall compass thee.9Then shalt thou cry, and God shall hearken to thee; while thou art yet speaking he will say, Behold, I am here. 10and IF THOU GIVE BREAD TO THE HUNGRY FROM THY HEART, and SATISFY THE AFFLICTED SOUL; then shall thy light spring up in darkness, and thy darkness shall be as noon-day: 11and thy GOD SHALL BE WITH THEE CONTINUALLY …” (Isaiah 58:3, 5 – 7, 8 – 9, 10 – 11, LXX, Brenton Septuagint Translation)
Source:
https://biblehub.com/sep/isaiah/58.htm
And
“… 10They HATED him that REPROVED in the gates, and ABHORRED HOLY SPEECH. 11Therefore BECAUSE THEY HAVE SMITTEN THE POOR with their fists, and ye have received of them choice gifts; ye have built polished houses, but ye shall not dwell in them; ye have planted desirable vineyards, but ye shall not drink the wine of them. 12For I know YOUR MANY TRANSGRESSIONS, and YOUR SINS ARE GREAT, TRAMPLING on the JUST, TAKING BRIBES, and TURNING ASIDE THE JUDGMENT OF THE POOR in the gates. … 21I HATE, I REJECT YOUR FEASTS, and I will NOT smell your meat-offerings in your GENERAL ASSEMBLIES 22Wherefore if ye should bring me your whole-burnt-sacrifices and meat-offerings, I will NOT ACCEPT them: NEITHER will I have RESPECT to your grand peace-offerings. 23REMOVE from me the SOUND OF THY SONGS, and I will NOT HEAR the MUSIC of THINE INSTRUMENTS. 24But let JUDGMENT roll down as water, and RIGHTEOUSNESS as an impassable torrent. …” (Amos 5:10 – 12, 21 – 24, LXX, Brenton Septuagint Translation)
Source:
https://biblehub.com/sep/amos/5.htm
Christ Affirmed it, here are a few translations of that Verse:
“… But rather give alms of such things as ye have; and, behold, all things are clean unto you. …” (Luke 11:41, KJV)
“… But rather give alms of such things as you have; then indeed all things are clean to you. …” (Luke 11:41, NKJV)
“… But give that which is within as a charitable gift, and then all things are clean for you. …” (Luke 11:41, NASB)
“… But what ye have GIVE YE AS ALMS, and, lo, ALL THINGS ARE CLEAN to you. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Young’s Literal Translation, Luke 11:41, YLT)
“… But now as for what is inside you–be generous to the poor, and everything will be clean for you. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 11:41, NIV)
Christ did “not” Say that any ‘other action’ may be substituted for it and please note in Luke 11:41 that this is exactly what the Pharisees ‘failed’ to do though they did charity with Temple money & tithes but not including their own money (Matthew 6:2).
Mystery of the Tree without the “fruit” implies the “Charity Works or Sharing with each other deeds” is Taught by the Actual ForeRunner for Christ Himself, Blessed St. John the Baptist who has Warned those neglecting it as follows:
“… 7But 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? 8Therefore bear fruits worthy of repentance, 9and 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. 10And 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. …” (Matthew 3:7 – 10, NKJV)
Please Compare with Christ’s Infamous Great Denial in the “… I never knew you…” verse speaking of this same Context of “tree with good Vs bad fruits” implying that these two are the Same Topic/Context:
“… 18A good tree cannot bear bad fruit, nor can a bad tree bear good fruit. 19Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. 20Therefore by their fruits you will know them. 21“Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father in heaven. 22Many will say to Me in that day, ‘Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in Your name, cast out demons in Your name, and done many wonders in Your name?’ 23And then I will declare to them, ‘I never knew you; depart from Me, you who practice lawlessness!’ …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 7:18 – 23, NKJV)
Yes, the “fruit” of ‘repentance’ Blessed St. John the Baptist referred to in the above so that ‘one escapes the Wrath to Come’ (on ‘being rejected from the First Resurrection on the Day Christ Returns’, Matthew 7:22 – 23, Revelation 20:4 – 6) pertains to ‘doing good works’ such as ‘share your tunics (clothes) or food’, ‘do not collect more money than you ought to’, ‘be content with your salary without desiring more & more’ etc. as these Bible Verses (not my opinion) clearly imply:
“… 7Then he said to the multitudes that came out to be baptized by him, “Brood of vipers! Who warned you to flee from the wrath to come? 8Therefore bear FRUITS WORTHY OF REPENTANCE, and do not begin 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. 9And 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.” 10So the people asked him, saying, “What shall we do then?” 11He answered and said to them, “HE WHO HAS TWO TUNICS, let him GIVE TO HIM WHO HAS NONE; and HE WHO HAS FOOD, LET HIM DO LIKEWISE.” 12Then tax collectors also came to be baptized, and said to him, “Teacher, what shall we do?” 13And he said to them, “COLLECT NO MORE THAN WHAT IS APPOINTED FOR YOU.” 14Likewise the soldiers asked him, saying, “And what shall we do?” So he said to them, “DO NOT INTIMIDATE ANYONE or ACCUSE FALSELY, and BE CONTENT WITH YOUR WAGES. …” (Luke 3:7 – 14, NKJV)
Note: “… be content with your wages …” = No faith for more money or Luxury as the Prosperity Gospel misleads but contentment is a must.
If I had one sharing to be my last words, the Verses and words here would be it. Nothing else matters as much.
Peace to you
Mystery of the Enemies of the Cross of Christ via First Christianity points to the Prosperity Gospel
1) Bible Verses
“… 17Brethren, join in FOLLOWING MY EXAMPLE, and NOTE THOSE WHO SO WALK, as you have us for a PATTERN. 18For MANY WALK, of whom I have told you often, and now tell you even weeping, that they are the ENEMIES OF THE CROSS OF CHRIST: 19whose END IS DESTRUCTION, whose GOD IS THEIR BELLY, and whose glory is in their shame—who SET THEIR MIND ON EARTHLY THINGS. …” – Blessed St. Paul the Great Apostle of Christ (Philippians 3:17 – 19, NKJV)
Please notice carefully that Apostle St. Paul clearly warns of “many” who are called “enemies of the Cross of Christ” till “destruction” among ‘Christians’ (hence ‘unsaved’) because they “didn’t follow the pattern seen in St. Paul” in the context of “their god is their belly” & “setting their mind on earthly things” which is exactly what the “Prosperity Gospel” teaches you to ‘get that by faith’. Can you see it? In this Context, Apostle Paul’s Pattern of lifestyle is as follows which we are Commanded to emulate as much as we can as per Philippians 3:17:
“… 33I have coveted no one’s silver or gold or apparel. 34Yes, you yourselves know that these hands have provided for my necessities, and for those who were with me. 35I have shown you in every way, by laboring like this, that you must support the weak. And remember the words of the Lord Jesus, that He said, ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive. …” – Blessed St. Paul the Great Apostle of Christ (Acts 20:32 – 35, NKJV)
There’s “no” such thing as faith to get worldly things for “Prosperity beyond need” because it contradicts this Verse clearly:
“… Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. …” (1 John 2:15, NKJV)
Doesn’t this sound similar to the “many” in the Great Denial of Matthew 7:18 – 23 who “Prophesied”, “Cast out Demons” and did “Miracles” in His Name but were Denied for “Lawlessness”, right? Philippians 3:17 – 19 above clearly includes the context for “Lawlessness” includes the “sin of luxury or prosperity”, right? Can you see it? Here’s an Old Testament Verse and New Testament Verse proving that “Luxury is sin” (note: some of the Old Testament faithful were rich but they didn’t indulge in Luxury and shared their wealth):
“… Look, this was the iniquity of your sister SODOM: She and her daughter had PRIDE, FULLNESS OF FOOD, and ABUNDANCE OF IDLENESS; NEITHER did she strengthen the hand of the POOR and NEEDY. …” (Ezekiel 16:49, NKJV)
End times will be full of these Sodom Traits as per Prophecy below:
“… 6and turning the cities of SODOM and Gomorrah into ashes, condemned them to destruction, making them an EXAMPLE to those who afterward would LIVE UNGODLY; 7and delivered righteous Lot, who was oppressed by the filthy conduct of the wicked 8(for that righteous man, dwelling among them, tormented his righteous soul from day to day by seeing and hearing their lawless deeds)— 9then the Lord knows how to deliver the godly out of temptations and to reserve the UNJUST under PUNISHMENT for the DAY of JUDGMENT …” (2 Peter 2:6 – 9, NKJV)
Regardless this Context seems to Apply in the Current New Testament, Verses:
“… 1Come now, YOU RICH, weep and howl for your miseries that are coming upon you! 2Your riches are corrupted, and your garments are moth-eaten. 3Your GOLD and SILVER are corroded, and their corrosion will be a witness against you and will EAT YOUR FLESH LIKE FIRE. You have HEAPED up TREASURE in the LAST DAYS. … 5You have lived on the earth in PLEASURE and LUXURY; you have fattened your hearts as in a DAY of SLAUGHTER. …”
– Blessed St. James the Just, First Bishop of Jerusalem (James 5:1 – 3, 5, NKJV)
If the Prosperity Gospel Preachers are wrong (as these Verses seems to indicate that very seriously with harsh Judgment Sentences meaning that probably there’s “no” easy escape from this error), do we want to risk believing them instead of the actual “Bible Verses”? Why take such a risk?
2) First Christianity Context Understanding of these Same Verses by St. John Chrysostom
“… Nothing is so incongruous in a Christian, and foreign to his character, as to seek ease and rest; and to be engrossed with the present life is foreign to our profession and enlistment. Your Master was crucified, and do you seek ease? Your Master was pierced with nails, and do you live delicately? Do these things become a noble soldier? Wherefore PAUL SAYS, MANY WALK, of whom I told you often, and now tell you even weeping, that they are the ENEMIES OF THE CROSS OF CHRIST (Philippians 3:18). Since there were some who made a PRETENSE OF CHRISTIANITY, YET LIVED IN EASE AND LUXURY, and this is CONTRARY TO THE CROSS: therefore he thus spoke. … . As when he says, Except a man TAKE UP HIS CROSS AND FOLLOW ME Matthew 16:24, i.e. except he be prepared to die. But these being base, and LOVERS OF LIFE, and LOVERS OF THEIR BODIES, are ENEMIES OF THE CROSS. And every one, who is a FRIEND OF LUXURY, and of PRESENT SAFETY, is an ENEMY OF THAT CROSS in WHICH PAUL MAKES HIS BOAST: which he embraces, with which he desires to be incorporated. …” – Blessed St. John Chrysostom, Archbishop of Constantinople, Doctor of the Church, one of the three Holy Hirearchs (c. 349 AD – c. 407 AD, Commentary on Philippians 3:18 – 21)
Source:
https://sites.google.com/site/aquinasstudybible/home/philippians/st-john-chrysostom-on-philippians/chapter-1/chapter-2/chapter-3
Conclusion
The only rich Christians who may be Saved into the First Resurrection (Revelation 20:4 – 6) are those who practice plenty of Good Works, Sharing and Giving (as the Bible Verse calls it as being “RICH” in Good Works), Verses:
“… COMMAND those who are RICH … Let them DO GOOD, that they be RICH in GOOD WORKS, ready to GIVE, willing to SHARE, 19storing up for themselves a good FOUNDATION for the TIME to COME, that they MAY lay HOLD on ETERNAL LIFE. …” (1 Timothy 6:17 – 19, NKJV)
We are to “Command” it to the “rich Christians” as the Verse above Speaks. So, are we Preaching this message to the Rich Christians or Risk God holding us accountable for “not” preaching these Verses? If they don’t listen it is “not” your problem as long as you have preached it, Verses:
“… 26Therefore I testify to you this day that I am innocent[e] of the blood of all men. 27For I have not [f]shunned to declare to you the whole counsel of God. …” – Blessed St. Paul the Great Apostle of Christ (Acts of the Apostles 20:26 – 27, NKJV)
Food for thought: If this is the Law and Prophets, every True Prophet of God must Understand, Do and Preach it too, right?
Mystery of the Lamp and Light
Those who have Gone before us will Wish to do these more:
Which “Doing Good” is Christ Speaking about? His Own Words Answers only these, Verses:
“… for I was hungry and you gave Me food; I was thirsty and you gave Me drink; I was a STRANGER and you TOOK ME IN; … 38When did we see You a STRANGER and take You in, or naked and clothe You? … 40And the King will answer and say to them, ‘Assuredly, I say to you, inasmuch as you did it to one of the LEAST of these My brethren, you DID it TO ME.’ … 41“Then He will also say to those on the left hand, ‘Depart from Me, you cursed, into the everlasting [Aeonian] fire prepared for the devil and his angels: … 43I was a STRANGER and you did NOT take Me in, … ‘Assuredly, I say to you, inasmuch as you did NOT do it to one of the least of these, you did NOT do it to Me.’ …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 25:35, 38, 40, 41, 43, 45, NKJV)
and that the “Lamp with light refers to Good Works” (chiefly charity works including sharing with one another), please consider Christ’s Own Most Blessed Words below which in First Christianity, the earliest leaders quite unanimously taught likewise too of which the ‘foolish virgins’ failed to do as per the Parable of the 10 Virgins, 5 Wise and 5 Foolish:
“… 14“You are the LIGHT OF THE WORLD. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden. 15Nor do they LIGHT A LAMP and put it under a basket, but on a lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house. 16Let your LIGHT so SHINE before men, that they may see YOUR GOOD WORKS and glorify your Father in heaven. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 5:14 – 16, NKJV)
The “Lamp with light” in Christ’s Words above have been referred as “Good Works” which keep the Faith alive as the ‘foolish virgins’ didn’t focus on this and lose their place in the First Resurrection:
“… 7Then all those virgins arose and trimmed their LAMPS. 8And the foolish said to the wise, ‘Give us some of your oil, for OUR LAMPS ARE GOING OUT.’ 9But the wise answered, saying, ‘No, lest there should not be enough for us and you; but go rather TO THOSE WHO SELL, AND BUY FOR YOURSELVES.’ 10And while they went to buy, the bridegroom came, and those who were ready went in with him to the wedding; and the door was shut. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 25:7 – 10, NKJV)
How to “buy and sell” to “keep one’s lamp lit”?
“… 31“But SEEK HIS KINGDOM, and THESE THINGS will be ADDED TO YOU. 32“Do not be afraid, little flock, for your Father has chosen gladly to give you the kingdom. 33“SELL YOUR POSSESSIONS and GIVE TO CHARITY; make yourselves money belts which do not wear out, an unfailing treasure in heaven, where no thief comes near nor moth destroys. 34“For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. 35“Be dressed in readiness, and KEEP YOUR LAMPS LIT. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 12:31 – 35, NASB)
“… The queen of the South will rise up in the judgment with the men of this generation and condemn them, for she came from the ends of the earth to hear the wisdom of Solomon; and indeed a GREATER THAN SOLOMON IS HERE. … 34The lamp of the body is the eye. Therefore, when your eye is [i]good, your whole body also is full of light. But when your eye is [j]bad, your body also is full of darkness. … 37And as He spoke, … 40Foolish ones! Did not He who made the outside make the inside also? 41But rather GIVE ALMS (CHARITY) of [l]such things as you have; then indeed ALL THINGS are CLEAN to YOU. …” – The KING, the Wisest One, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 11:31, 34, 37, 40 – 41, NKJV)
Please notice that Each set of Verses here are Christ’s Most Blessed Words only.
Mystery of the Greatest Commands of God – Example Actions
“… 29Jesus answered him, “The [k]first of all the commandments is: ‘Hear, O Israel, the Lord our God, the Lord is one. 30And you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your mind, and with all your strength.’ [l]This is the first commandment. 31And the second, like it, is this: ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is no other commandment greater than these.” …” (Mark 12:29 – 31, NKJV)
Here are Two Lifestyle Examples in Contrast to understand this Biblically in Action:
1) Example of a Lifestyle which does “not” match those Commands:
o) Not preaching the Gospel nor teaching New Testament Verses observance but worldly indulgences
“… Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. …” (1 John 2:15, NKJV)
i) Not helping others and lives for oneself only and does not do Charity Works
“… The righteous considers the cause of the poor, But the wicked does not understand such knowledge. …” (Proverbs 29:7, NKJV)
ii) His house is only for himself and does not share the empty rooms with others
“… A man who isolates himself seeks his own desire …” (Proverbs 18:1, NKJV)
iii) Busy helping family or those of the same race/same religion only and nothing beyond that
“… But if you love those who love you, what credit is that to you? For even sinners love those who love them. …” (Luke 6:32, NKJV)
iv) Simply marry and have children but never provided for each Inheritance or dealt biasedly instead of making Wealth and inheritance first before marrying responsibly:
“… A good man leaves an inheritance to his children’s children, …” (Proverbs 13:22, NKJV)
v) Provides for those who do “not” want to work wasting money on them irresponsibly knowingly for example toward a lazy son who never benefitted the poor, nor did charity, nor helped his friends or family even but is supported by parents who spoil him by giving him without the need for him to earn it by merit or work too at all:
“… For even when we were with you, we commanded you this: If anyone will not work, neither shall he eat. …” (2 Thessalonians 3:10, NKJV)
Do not give money to the rich as it may result in poverty, if not on earth in the Spirit World, Verse:
“… And he who gives to the rich, will surely come to poverty. …” (Proverbs 22:16, NKJV)
vi) Parents who failed to save up for their children due to having too many children or not wise enough
“… for children are not responsible to save up for their parents, but parents for their children. …” (2 Corinthians 12:14, NKJV)
(Example: Not spending correctly nor fairly by biased spending on children who do not want to study by forcing them to study who failed wasting all those money)
2) Example of a Lifestyle which matches those Commands:
o) Preaching the Gospel fulfilling the Great Commission including the “teaching all that I Commanded you” part (Matthew 28:20)
i) Helping someone who has been “Robbed” as the Parable of the Good Samaritan Reveals (Luke 10:25 – 37). Modern extension: Robbery = Literal Stealing, Money Scam or equivalent
ii) Sharing one’s own possessions with others by living together (Acts 2:44 – 46, Acts 4:32)
iii) Loving beyond family (Luke 6:32) including enemies too (Luke 6:27) and doing Charity Works too (Luke 12:30 – 35, Luke 11:41)
iv) Provides for his own household (1 Timothy 5:8)
v) Gave Money to parents or allowed parents to use him to make money-profit knowingly/willingly (Mark 7:11 – 13) even though “no” such Commandment of God for “children to provide for their parents by mandatory requirement” exists in Holy Scripture (2 Corinthians 12:14)
Conclusion
“… 20If someone says, “I love God,” and hates his brother, he is a liar; for he who does not love his brother whom he has seen, [d]how can he love God whom he has not seen? 21And this commandment we have from Him: that he who loves God must love his brother also. …” (1 John 4:20 – 21, NKJV)
How great are these Two Commands Christ Spoke of?
1) All Law/Torah and Prophets hang on fulfilling these Two Commands
“… 36“Teacher, which is the great commandment in the law?” 37Jesus said to him, “‘You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind.’ 38This is the first and great commandment. 39And the second is like it: ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ 40On these two commandments hang all the Law and the Prophets.” …” (Matthew 22:36 – 40, NKJV)
2) It fulfills “All Law” (not some Law)
“… For all the law is fulfilled in one word, even in this: “You shall love your neighbor as yourself.” …” (Galatians 5:14, NKJV)
3) Not Fulfilling the Second Commandment (called the “Royal Law” of Scripture) is equivalent to being a “transgressor” which doesn’t sound like a ‘saved’ person
“… 8If you really fulfill the royal law according to the Scripture, “You shall love your neighbor as yourself,” you do well; 9but if you [e]show partiality, you commit sin, and are convicted by the law as transgressors. …” (James 2:8 – 9, NKJV)
Peace to you
Thanksgiving to God Mystery – How to Thank God in Action beyond Words?
Bible Verses:
“… 9As it is written:
“He has dispersed abroad,
He has GIVEN TO THE POOR;
His RIGHTEOUSNESS endures FOREVER.”
10Now [g]may He who supplies seed to the sower, and bread for food, [h]supply and multiply the seed you have sown and INCREASE THE FRUITS OF YOUR RIGHTEOUSNESS, 11while you are enriched in everything for ALL LIBERALITY, which causes THANKSGIVING THROUGH US TO GOD. 12For the ADMINISTRATION OF THIS SERVICE not only SUPPLIES THE NEEDS OF THE SAINTS, but also is ABOUNDING THROUGH MANY THANKSGIVINGS TO GOD, 13while, through the PROOF OF THIS MINISTRY, THEY GLORIFY GOD for the OBEDIENCE OF YOUR CONFESSION to the GOSPEL OF CHRIST, and for YOUR LIBERAL SHARING WITH THEM and ALL MEN, …” (2 Corinthians 9:9 – 13, NKJV)Conclusion
Please notice these Biblical Facts in phrases below from Verses above:
1) Give to who and is it forever? Those whom God uses to give to the poor is imparted everlasting righteousness of God
“… He has GIVEN TO THE POOR;
His RIGHTEOUSNESS endures FOREVER …”2) Does it affect the Good Tree with fruit Context that each Christian ought to be? (In part to avoid the Great Denial in Matthew 7:18 – 23) Yes:
“… INCREASE THE FRUITS OF YOUR RIGHTEOUSNESS, …”
3) Those who Give cause the True Thanksgivings to God from those who receive
“… you are enriched in everything for ALL LIBERALITY, which causes THANKSGIVING THROUGH US TO GOD. 12For the ADMINISTRATION OF THIS SERVICE not only SUPPLIES THE NEEDS OF THE SAINTS, but also is ABOUNDING THROUGH MANY THANKSGIVINGS TO GOD, …”
4) Is “Giving/Sharing” a “Ministry” and does it fall under the Category of “Obedience or Sacrifice” and does it have anything to do with the Context of “Obeying the Gospel”?
“… 13while, through the PROOF OF THIS MINISTRY, THEY GLORIFY GOD for the OBEDIENCE OF YOUR CONFESSION to the GOSPEL OF CHRIST, and for YOUR LIBERAL SHARING WITH THEM and ALL MEN, …”
5) Obedience is better than Sacrifice
Please remember that “obedience is better than Sacrifice” and “Giving” is an Act of “Obedience to the GOSPEL OF CHRIST” and hence possibly, the greater the obedience the greater the Giving, Verses:
“… So Samuel said: “Has the LORD as great delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices, As in OBEYING THE VOICE of the LORD? Behold, TO OBEY IS BETTER THAN SACRIFICE, And TO HEED than the fat of rams. …” (1 Samuel 15:22, NKJV)
6) God doesn’t look at the result nor the amount of giving but your love & relative measure which makes it ‘fair to all’ (as God has no Partiality) as the widow who gave only two coins which probably couldn’t feed any still gave more than all including the Rich’s giving which had tangible effects.
“… 1And He looked up and saw the rich putting their gifts into the treasury, 2and He saw also a certain poor widow putting in two mites.[a] 3So He said, “TRULY I say to you that this POOR widow has put in MORE THAN ALL; 4for all these out of their abundance have put in offerings [b]for God, but she OUT OF HER POVERTY PUT IN ALL THE LIVELIHOOD THAT SHE HAD.” …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 21:1 – 4, NKJV)
7) Do “not” give to lazy so called Christians who refuse to work. Example: a lazy son living off his parents and doesn’t even work to provide for his needs who is not disabled physically nor mentally.
“… 10For even when we were with you, we COMMANDED you this: If ANYONE WILL NOT WORK, NEITHER SHALL HE EAT. …” (2 Thessalonians 3:10)
What if some Christians do not want to obey such New Testament Biblical Traditions and Verses? We are Commanded to keep away from them (and so, it’s nothing wrong Biblically if we keep away from them if they don’t want to repent of this), Verse in that same chapter/topic context (just 3 Verses away):
“… 13But as for you, brethren, DO NOT GROW WEARY in DOING GOOD. 14And if anyone does NOT OBEY OUR WORD IN THIS [D]EPISTLE, note that person and do NOT KEEP COMPANY with him, that he may be ashamed. …” (2 Thessalonians 3:13 – 14)
8) Perfection in God’s Eyes Context
“… 20The young man said to Him, “All these things I have kept [g]from my youth. What do I still lack?”
21Jesus said to him, “IF you want to be PERFECT, go, SELL what YOU HAVE and GIVE to the POOR, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, FOLLOW ME.” 22But when the young man heard that saying, he went away SORROWFUL, for he had GREAT POSSESSIONS.23Then Jesus said to His disciples, “Assuredly, I say to you that it is HARD for a RICH MAN TO ENTER THE KINGDOM OF HEAVEN. 24And AGAIN I say to you, it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God. … 27Then Peter answered and said to Him, “See, we have LEFT ALL and FOLLOWED YOU. Therefore what shall we have?” … 28So Jesus said to them, “Assuredly I say to you, that in the REGENERATION, when the Son of Man sits on the throne of His glory, you who have followed Me will also sit on twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel. 29And EVERYONE who has LEFT HOUSES or brothers or sisters or father or mother or wife or children or LANDS, for MY NAME’S SAKE, shall RECEIVE a HUNDREDFOLD, and INHERIT ETERNAL LIFE. 30But MANY who are FIRST will be LAST, and the LAST FIRST. …” (Matthew 19:20 – 24, 27 – 30, NKJV)Please notice the word “Hundredfold” in Matthew 19:29 above referring to the parable of the Sower’s ‘thirty, sixty or hundredfold’ harvest Matthew 13:8. Please notice carefully also that the emphasis of Christ’s Own Most Blessed Words toward being “Perfect” (Matthew 19:21) toward a rich man who kept the Torah/Law/Holiness well (Matthew 19:20) is in the direction or emphasis of actual physical renunciation of possessions or riches for the Gospel, that is, in becoming “Blessed are the poor” in the Context of ‘physically poor voluntarily’.
These Bible Verses here describe the Secret of a ‘Grateful heart to God’ in ‘Action’ beyond words.
The Idea is Simple: If you want to Thank God, one of the best ways to do it is Give to the Poor:
“… He who has pity on the poor lends to the LORD, And He will pay back what he has given. …” (Proverbs 19:17, NKJV)
P/S: How about the New Testament “Traditions” or “Commands of the Lord” delivered by Apostle St. Paul (e.g. 1 Corinthians 14:37, 2 Thessalonians 3:14 – 15)?
New Testament Traditions by Word or Written – Kept by an Apostolic First Christianity Witness
Bible Verses warning of False Teachings includes the Context of “not” keeping to the “Written” & “Verbal/Word” Biblical “Traditions” via Blessed Apostle St. Paul:
“… 11And for this reason GOD WILL SEND THEM STRONG DELUSION, that THEY SHOULD BELIEVE THE LIE, 12that they all may be condemned who did not believe the truth but had pleasure in unrighteousness. … 14to which He called you by OUR GOSPEL, for the obtaining of the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ. 15Therefore, brethren, STAND FAST and HOLD THE TRADITIONS which you were taught, whether BY WORD OR OUR [H]EPISTLE. …” – Blessed St. Paul the Great and Legendary Apostle of Christ Himself (2 Thessalonians 2:11 – 12, 14 – 15, NKJV)
Please notice carefully that when Apostle St. Paul Warned Inspiredly of “false teachers” to come, God didn’t in His Wisdom list down every possible heresy buy rather clearly pointed brilliantly to the “Truth of the Gospel to STAND FAST or HOLD ON TO referring to the Biblical TRADITIONS which he WROTE or VERBALLY taught”. Doesn’t this indirectly imply that ‘false teachers’ will ignore or teach against these New Testament Traditions claiming falsely that it was culture and that it doesn’t apply today rather than reveal that the Bible called it the “LORD’S COMMANDS” in 1 Corinthians 14:37 which is included in this context simply because this Verse refers to anything Apostle St. Paul WROTE? Can you see it?
“… 36Or did the word of God originate with you? Or are you the only people it has reached? 37If anyone thinks they are a PROPHET or otherwise GIFTED BY THE SPIRIT, let them ACKNOWLEDGE that what I am WRITING to you is the LORD’S COMMAND. 38But IF ANYONE IGNORES THIS, THEY WILL THEMSELVES BE IGNORED …” (1 Corinthians 14:36 – 38, NIV)
We don’t need to condemn those who disobey beyond pointing out the risk they’re taking as this First Christianity Legend of Faith Quotes Christ’s Words of “… Judge not …”, likewise:
“… But He who raised Him up from the dead will raise up us also, if WE DO HIS WILL, and WALK IN HIS COMMANDMENTS, and love what He loved, keeping ourselves from all unrighteousness, COVETOUSNESS, LOVE OF MONEY, evil speaking, falsewitness; “not rendering evil for evil, or railing for railing,” or blow for blow, or cursing for cursing, but being MINDFUL OF WHAT THE LORD SAID in HIS TEACHING: “JUDGE NOT, THAT YE BE NOT JUDGED; forgive, and it shall be forgiven unto you; be merciful, that ye may obtain mercy; WITH WHAT MEASURE YE METE, IT SHALL BE MEASURED TO YOU again; and once more, “BLESSED ARE THE POOR, and THOSE THAT ARE PERSECUTED FOR RIGHTEOUSNESS’ SAKE, FOR THEIRS IS THE KINGDOM OF GOD.” …” – Blessed St. Polycarp, Bishop of Smryna, an Apostolic Father being the Disciple of the Blessed St. John the Apostle who wrote the Book of Revelation (c. 69 AD – c. 155 AD, Chapter II, THE EPISTLE OF POLYCARP TO THE PHILIPPIANS)
Source:
http://www.earlychristianwritings.com/text/polycarp-roberts.html
Conclusion – Here’s an example of an Apostolic Witness who affirms that Blessed Apostle St. Paul’s Inspired letters which contain the “traditions” part apply to All Gentile Churches:
“… These things, brethren, I write to you CONCERNING RIGHTEOUSNESS, not because I take anything upon myself, but because ye have invited me to do so. For NEITHER I, NOR ANY OTHER SUCH ONE, CAN COME UP TO THE WISDOM” OF THE BLESSED AND GLORIFIED PAUL. He, when among you, ACCURATELY and STEDFASTLY TAUGHT THE WORD OF TRUTH in the presence of those who were then alive. And when absent from you, he WROTE YOU A LETTER, which, IF YOU CAREFULLY STUDY, YOU WILL FIND TO BE THE MEANS of BUILDING YOU UP IN THAT FAITH which has been given you, and which, being followed by hope, and preceded by love towards God, and Christ, and our neighbour, “is the mother of us all.” For if any one be inwardly possessed of these graces, he hath FULFILLED THE COMMAND OF RIGHTEOUSNESS, since he that hath love is far from all sin. …” – Blessed St. Polycarp, Bishop of Smryna, an Apostolic Father being the Disciple of the Blessed St. John the Apostle who wrote the Book of Revelation (c. 69 AD – c. 155 AD, Chapter III, THE EPISTLE OF POLYCARP TO THE PHILIPPIANS)
Source:
http://www.earlychristianwritings.com/text/polycarp-roberts.html
Please notice carefully these two things:
1. St. Polycarp was a Bishop at Smyrna not Philippi but clearly endorses that Apostle St. Paul’s Writings Apply and can build up faith, to quote from the above:
“… For NEITHER I, NOR ANY OTHER SUCH ONE, CAN COME UP TO THE WISDOM” OF THE BLESSED AND GLORIFIED PAUL. He, when among you, ACCURATELY and STEDFASTLY TAUGHT THE WORD OF TRUTH in the presence of those who were then alive. And when absent from you, he WROTE YOU A LETTER, which, IF YOU CAREFULLY STUDY, YOU WILL FIND TO BE THE MEANS of BUILDING YOU UP IN THAT FAITH which has been given you, …” – St. Polycarp
2. St. Polycarp himself approves the usage of the title “Blessed” (e.g. “Blessed St. Paul”) as he calls Apostle Paul as follows, to quote from the above:
“… For neither I, nor any other such one, can come up to the wisdom” of the BLESSED AND GLORIFIED PAUL. …” – St. Polycarp
Regarding the “Blessed” Title and “fathers of the church” context usage, please consider:
I) Blessed
Blessed Mystery – Can we call someone “Blessed”?
Question 1
Why do you always refer to Jesus, the apostles, or the early church ‘fathers’ as “Most Blessed…”? Does using these unscriptural terms make theme something else other than who they were, or does it make you appear more reverent or respectful? Just asking.
Reply 1
Christ even taught to “bless those who curse you” (Luke 6:28), so it’s my personal choice to call them blessed because they’re blessed by God in many ways. That’s how I respect them. Similar to how some people address their leaders as pastors or other titles but I prefer to use the title “Blessed” because it emphasizes that “God Blessed them”.
Question 2
I thought that to bless someone was to wish them well and not evil. I did not think that it was to call them blessed.
Reply 2
It can mean both to me as in Matthew 5, Christ Utters a whole range of “Blessed are you… ” statements. I think mine as equivalent except that Christ’s one is ‘general’ while mine is specific to the people I intend.
Question 3
Don’t wish to sound contentious, but Christ did not say “blessed” but “HAPPY” are you, etc.” Thanks for your quick reply.
Reply 3
Christ Used the Word “Blessed”. Let me ask you this: In the New Testament, does the word “Blessed” exist?
Matthew 5 uses blessed as most translations render:
https://biblehub.com/matthew/5-9.htm
Can you point to me a Verse where you agree that the Word “Blessed” is used?
Even if it means “happy”, then take it as that as I’m using the ‘same English translation’ called ‘blessed’ for ‘Christ’s Usage’.
Question 4
I mostly use the Concordant Literal New Testament, and verify some words with the Interlinear Translation of the Greek Scriptures, and they both use “Happy”. The King James uses “Blessed”, as do some other translations. The Concordant has been proved to be fairly accurate, but I know that no translation has 100% accuracy.
Reply 4
If you feel the Concordant Literal New Testament is the most accurate, please go ahead. Using “happy” or “blessed” but both referring to the same Word Christ used is what matters just like we call Him “Jesus” but his real name is “Yeshua” (in the Originals) and so referring to the right Verse matters more than the poorly matched English words. Truth is, the Greek Word used in Matthew 5 means ‘both happy & blessed’ as the English words mean. The problem is that English does not have one single word to encompass both meaning as Greek does.
In fact the word “happy” is more accurately “chairei” (Matthew 18:13 clearly implies this meaning when the lost sheep is found) while the word “Blessed” (including being happy, Favoured of God & in Peace etc.) matches Matthew 5’s “Makarioi” Word in Koine Greek.
Some scholars will point to you that Matthew 5’s “Makarioi” cannot refer to “happy” as the Concordant Literal New Testament Scholars claim simply because it contradicts the meaning in these Verses:
“Blessed [Makarioi] are those who mourn, For they shall be comforted.” (Matthew 5:4, NKJV)
Why? a person who is mourning cannot be “happy” as the ‘Blessed [Makarioi]’ are mentioned whilst they are going through that which is a direct contradiction.
Also, please consider:
“11Blessed [Makarioi] are you when they revile and persecute you, and say all kinds of evil against you falsely for My sake. 12Rejoice [chairete] and be exceedingly glad, for great is your reward in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you.” (Matthew 5:11 – 12, NKJV)
Please notice carefully in Verses above where Christ Himself Uses both Blessed [Makarioi] and Rejoice [chairete] in two consecutive Verses above meaning that these are ‘different meanings’ or may have some overlap in meaning but must have difference in meaning too. Since Happy = Rejoice, the Concordant Translation would be less accurate as it does not show any difference in meaning as intended.
Furthermore, no one is ‘happy’ when ‘persecuted’ which again contradicts the concordant translation claim if they translated it as ‘happy’ for this same Greek Word [Makarioi] throughout to maintain consistency. The element of being ‘happy’ or to Rejoice [chairete] in the next Verse above relates to ‘the reward in heaven later’ and not while they are on earth. So, “Blessed” is still the best translation by Christ’s Own usage in Matthew 5 itself.
Conclusion – FAQ on the Word “Blessed”
1) Has anyone in the Bible used it by calling or pronouncing it on another human being?
Yes, Elizabeth (the mother of John the Baptist) used it on Virgin Mary (the mother of Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ), Verses:
“Then she spoke out with a loud voice and said, “Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb!” (Luke 1:42, NKJV)
2) Even the Angel did not find it wrong to call Virgin Mary as “Blessed”
” 27to a virgin betrothed to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David. The virgin’s name was Mary. 28And having come in, the angel said to her, “Rejoice, highly favored one, the Lord is with you; blessed are you among women!” (Luke 1:27 – 28, NKJV)
3) Old Testament Example – a woman was called “Blessed” for her kindness of giving milk when asked only for water to kill an ungodly man
“24“Most blessed among women is Jael,
The wife of Heber the Kenite;
Blessed is she among women in tents.
25He asked for water, she gave milk;
She brought out cream in a lordly bowl.” (Judges 5:24 – 25, NKJV)
4) The Title “Most Blessed” for “Lord Jesus Christ”
Psalm 21 is often understood as a ‘Messianic Psalm’ and this Verse below in particular highlights the Messiah (or Lord Jesus Christ) as “Most Blessed” (Can you see it?)
“6For You have made him most blessed forever; You have made him [a]exceedingly glad with Your presence.” (Psalm 21:6, NKJV)
5) Can the word “Blessed” be used on anyone other than ‘Virgin Mary’?
Yes, according to Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ, it can be used toward ‘anyone who hears & keeps (obeys)’ the ‘Word of God’ Verses:
“27And it happened, as He spoke these things, that a certain woman from the crowd raised her voice and said to Him, “Blessed is the womb that bore You, and the breasts which nursed You!” 28But He said, “More than that, blessed are those who hear the word of God and keep it!” (Luke 11:27 – 28, NKJV)
6) Can the word “Blessed” be used for someone who has been dead or living only?
The Bible Verses below clearly indicates that (Virgin) Mary will be called “Blessed” in “all generations” to come meaning that some people who call her “blessed” will do so only after she has died/translated, so even this is entirely Biblical:
“46And Mary said: “My soul magnifies the Lord, 47And my spirit has rejoiced in God my Savior. 48For He has regarded the lowly state of His maidservant; For behold, henceforth all generations will call me blessed.” (Luke 1:46 – 48, NKJV)
7) Who can be called “Blessed”?
Christ allows those who practice any one or more of these to be called “Blessed”:
“3“Blessed are the poor in spirit,
for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
4Blessed are those who mourn,
for they will be comforted.
5Blessed are the meek,
for they will inherit the earth.
6Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness,
for they will be filled.
7Blessed are the merciful,
for they will be shown mercy.
8Blessed are the pure in heart,
for they will see God.
9Blessed are the peacemakers,
for they will be called children of God.
10Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness,
for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
11“Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. 12Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.” (Matthew 5:3 – 12, NKJV)
So, what I did is entirely “Biblical” and is ‘allowed’ according to these ‘Bible Verses’.
Who in First Christianity understood it likewise and used the title “Blessed” upon those living and dead at the time when they wrote it?
i.St. Ignatius of Antioch uses the title Blessed for St. Polycarp
1) Polycarp, Most Blessed in God
“… It is fitting, O POLYCARP, MOST BLESSED IN GOD, to assemble a very solemn council, and to elect one whom you greatly love, and know to be a man of activity, who may be designated the messenger of God; and to bestow on him this honour that he may go into Syria, and glorify your ever active love to the praise of Christ. A Christian has not power over himself, but must always be ready for s the service of God. Now, this work is both God’s and yours, when ye shall have completed it to His glory. For I trust that, through grace, ye are PREPARED FOR EVERY GOOD WORK pertaining to God. Knowing, therefore, your energetic love of the truth, I have exhorted you by this brief Epistle. …” – Blessed St. Ignatius, Bishop of Antioch, nicknamed ‘God-Bearing’, An Apostolic Father being the direct Disciple of the Blessed Apostle St. John, Martyr for Christ (c. 35 AD – c. 108 AD, Epistle to Popycarp, CHAPTER VII)
Source:
http://www.earlychristianwritings.com/text/ignatius-polycarp-roberts.html
Who is Polycarp?
Blessed St. Polycarp, Bishop of Smryna, an Apostolic Father being the Disciple of the Blessed St. John the Apostle who wrote the Book of Revelation (c. 69 AD – c. 155 AD).
2) Blessed Bishop (unnamed)
“… As to our fellow-servant Burrhus, your deacon in regard to God and blessed in all things, I pray that he may continue blameless for the honour of the Church, and of your MOST BLESSED BISHOP. …” – Blessed St. Ignatius, Bishop of Antioch, nicknamed ‘God-Bearing’, An Apostolic Father being the direct Disciple of the Blessed Apostle St. John, Martyr for Christ (c. 35 AD – c. 108 AD, Chapter II, Epistle of Ignatius to the Ephesians)
Source:
http://www.earlychristianwritings.com/text/ignatius-ephesians-longer.html
Conclusion – Who is “Blessed”?
“… Let us make them brethren by our kindness. For say ye to those that hate you, Ye are our brethren, that the name of the Lord may be glorified. And let us imitate the Lord, “who, when He was reviled, reviled not again ; ” when He was crucified, He answered not; “when He suffered, He threatened not ; “but prayed for His enemies, “Father, forgive them; they know not what they do.” If any one, the more he is injured, displays the more patience, BLESSED IS HE. If any one is defrauded, if any one is despised, for the name of the Lord, he truly is the servant of Christ. Take heed that no plant of the devil be found among you, for such a plant is bitter and salt. “Watch ye, and be ye sober,” in Christ Jesus. …” – Blessed St. Ignatius, Bishop of Antioch, nicknamed ‘God-Bearing’, An Apostolic Father being the direct Disciple of the Blessed Apostle St. John, Martyr for Christ (c. 35 AD – c. 108 AD, Chapter X, Epistle of Ignatius to the Ephesians)
Source:
http://www.earlychristianwritings.com/text/ignatius-ephesians-longer.html
ii.St. Polycarp uses the Title “Blessed” on Apostle St. Paul
“… These things, brethren, I write to you CONCERNING RIGHTEOUSNESS, not because I take anything upon myself, but because ye have invited me to do so. For NEITHER I, NOR ANY OTHER SUCH ONE, CAN COME UP TO THE WISDOM” OF THE BLESSED AND GLORIFIED PAUL. He, when among you, ACCURATELY and STEDFASTLY TAUGHT THE WORD OF TRUTH in the presence of those who were then alive. And when absent from you, he WROTE YOU A LETTER, which, IF YOU CAREFULLY STUDY, YOU WILL FIND TO BE THE MEANS of BUILDING YOU UP IN THAT FAITH which has been given you, and which, being followed by hope, and preceded by love towards God, and Christ, and our neighbour, “is the mother of us all.” For if any one be inwardly possessed of these graces, he hath FULFILLED THE COMMAND OF RIGHTEOUSNESS, since he that hath love is far from all sin. …” – Blessed St. Polycarp, Bishop of Smryna, an Apostolic Father being the Disciple of the Blessed St. John the Apostle who wrote the Book of Revelation (c. 69 AD – c. 155 AD, Chapter III, THE EPISTLE OF POLYCARP TO THE PHILIPPIANS)
Source:
http://www.earlychristianwritings.com/text/polycarp-roberts.html
St. Polycarp himself approves the usage of the title “Blessed” (e.g. “Blessed St. Paul”) as he calls Apostle Paul as follows, to quote from the above:
“… For neither I, nor any other such one, can come up to the wisdom” of the BLESSED AND GLORIFIED PAUL. …” – St. Polycarp
iii.St. Clement of Rome uses the Title “Blessed” to Prophet Moses, Apostle St. Paul and Judith
1) Blessed Moses .
“… And what wonder is it if those in Christ who were entrusted with such a duty by God, appointed those [ministers] before mentioned, when the BLESSED MOSES also, “a faithful servant in all his house,” noted down in the sacred books all the injunctions which were given him, and when the other prophets also followed him, bearing witness with one consent to the ordinances which he had appointed? For, when rivalry arose concerning the priesthood, and the tribes were contending among themselves as to which of them should be adorned with that glorious title, he commanded the twelve princes of the tribes to bring him their rods, each one being inscribed with the name of the tribe. And he took them and bound them [together], and sealed them with the rings of the princes of the tribes, and laid them up in the tabernacle of witness on the table of God. …” – Blessed St. Clement of Rome, an Apostolic Father being a direct Disciple of the Blessed Apostle St. Peter (c.35 AD – c. 99 AD, 1 Clement, Chapter 42)
Source:
http://www.earlychristianwritings.com/text/1clement-roberts.html
2) Blessed Apostle Paul
“… Take up the epistle of the BLESSED APOSTLE PAUL. What did he write to you at the time when the Gospel first began to be preached? Truly, under the inspiration of the Spirit, he wrote to you concerning himself, and Cephas, and Apollos, because even then parties had been formed among you. But that inclination for one above another entailed less guilt upon you, inasmuch as your partialities were then shown towards apostles, already of high reputation, and towards a man whom they had approved. …” – Blessed St. Clement of Rome, an Apostolic Father being a direct Disciple of the Blessed Apostle St. Peter (c.35 AD – c. 99 AD, 1 Clement, Chapter 47)
Source:
http://www.earlychristianwritings.com/text/1clement-roberts.html
Note: Blessed St. Clement of Rome himself clearly writes that Blessed Apostle St. Paul’s Epistles/Letters are Inspired of God (hence Scripture) and are to be obeyed.
3) Blessed Judith (Blessed Title to women of faith who provided food for others & other good works)
“… Many, too, have surrendered themselves to slavery, that with the price which they received for themselves, they might provide food for others. Many women also, being strengthened by the grace of God, have performed numerous manly exploits. The BLESSED JUDITH, when her city was besieged, asked of the elders permission to go forth into the camp of the strangers; and, exposing herself to danger, she went out for the love which she bare to her country and people then besieged; and the Lord delivered Holofernes into the hands of a woman. …”
– Blessed St. Clement of Rome, an Apostolic Father being a direct Disciple of the Blessed Apostle St. Peter (c.35 AD – c. 99 AD, 1 Clement, Chapter 55)
Source:
http://www.earlychristianwritings.com/text/1clement-roberts.html
Conclusion – Example of those who will be Blessed
“… BLESSED ARE WE, beloved, if we keep the commandments of God in the harmony of love; that so through love our sins may be forgiven us. For it is written, “BLESSED are they whose transgressions are forgiven, and whose sins are covered. BLESSED is the man whose sin the Lord will not impute to him, and in whose mouth there is no guile.” THIS BLESSEDNESS comes upon those who have been chosen by God through Jesus Christ our Lord; to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen. …” – Blessed St. Clement of Rome, an Apostolic Father being a direct Disciple of the Blessed Apostle St. Peter (c.35 AD – c. 99 AD, 1 Clement, Chapter 50)
Source:
http://www.earlychristianwritings.com/text/1clement-roberts.html
iv.St. Irenaeous of Lyons calls St. Polycarp as “Blessed Polycarp”
St. Irenaeous of Lyons calls Polycarp (the direct Disciple of Apostle St. John) with the title “Blessed” as “Blessed Polycarp” and so it’s a First Christianity Practice to identify the earliest Church Leaders as men who are “Blessed” by God to inherit the Kingdom, to quote:
“… These opinions, Florinus, that I may speak in mild terms, are not of sound doctrine; these opinions are not consonant to the Church, and involve their votaries in the utmost impiety; these opinions, even the heretics beyond the Church’s pale have never ventured to broach; these opinions, those presbyters who preceded us, and who were conversant with the apostles, did not hand down to thee. For, while I was yet a boy, I saw thee in Lower Asia with Polycarp, distinguishing thyself in the royal court, and endeavouring to gain his approbation. For I have a more vivid recollection of what occurred at that time than of recent events (inasmuch as the experiences of childhood, keeping pace with the growth of the soul, become incorporated with it); so that I can even describe the place where the BLESSED POLYCARP used to sit and discourse–his going out, too, and his coming in–his general mode of life and personal appearance, together with the discourses which he delivered to the people; also how he would speak of his familiar intercourse with John, and with the rest of those who had seen the Lord; and how he would call their words to remembrance. Whatsoever things he had heard from them respecting the Lord, both with regard to His miracles and His teaching, Polycarp having thus received [information] from the eye-witnesses of the Word of life, would recount them all in harmony with the Scriptures. These things, through, God’s mercy which was upon me, I then listened to attentively, and treasured them up not on paper, but in my heart; and I am continually, by God’s grace, revolving these things accurately in my mind. …” – Blessed St. Irenaeous, Bishop of Lyons, a Hearer of Blessed St. Polycarp the Disciple of Blessed St. John who wrote the Book of Revelation (c. 130 AD – c. 202 AD, Fragment II, FRAGMENTS FROM THE LOST WRITINGS OF IRENAEUS)
Translation Source:
http://www.earlychristianwritings.com/text/irenaeus-fragments.html
Please notice the phrase “BLESSED POLYCARP” in quote above carefully proving such a tradition.
II) Fathers
Titles: God is the Only Father and Teacher – none else
Christ Said call no man on earth a father:
“… 9Do not call anyone on earth your father; for One is your Father, He who is in heaven. 10And do not be called teachers; for One is your Teacher, the Christ. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 23:9 – 10, NKJV)
The irony is that some of the Christians who forbid the usage of the word father at all in any context also call their pastors or Bible School Lecturers as “Bible Teachers/Lecturers” which is forbidden together in the same context of Matthew 23:10 as the word “Teacher” is also forbidden in the religious title context if those Verses are upheld sincerely in that way. Can you see it? (Note: Lecturer is just another more refined word for a “Teacher”).
What could it mean then?
Regarding Christ forbidding the use of the title ‘father’ as a religious title as He Spoke it against the Pharisees, one might use the title father to describe theological lineage as Apostle St. Paul seems to have done in Verses below:
“… But you know his proven character, that as a son with his father he served with me in the gospel. …” (Philippians 2:22, NKJV)
“… I appeal to you for my son Onesimus, whom I have begotten while in my chains, …” (Philomen 1:10, NKJV)
The word “fathers” is found in plural in the context of Theological Lineage in Verse below where others are called “instructors in Christ” only:
“… 14I write not these things to shame you, but as my beloved sons I warn you. 15For though ye have ten thousand instructors in Christ, yet have ye not MANY FATHERS: for in CHRIST JESUS I HAVE BEGOTTEN you THROUGH THE GOSPEL. 16Wherefore I beseech you, be ye followers of me. 17For this cause have I sent unto you Timotheus, who is my beloved son, and faithful in the Lord, who shall bring you into remembrance of my ways which be in Christ, as I TEACH EVERY WHERE IN EVERY CHURCH. …” (1 Corinthians 4:14 – 17, KJV)
“More Blessed” Mystery
True “Blessing” Mystery – How to be “Blessed” and “More Blessed”?
A way to be “Blessed” is shown in Verse in image (Psalm 1:1 – 2).
Some people think that “Blessed” means “having material Wealth” or being “Happy”. The Bible disagrees in these “New Testament” Verses:
1) A person can be “Blessed” whilst having not enough food or being hungry or poor even
“… “Blessed are you poor, For yours is the kingdom of God. 21Blessed are you who hunger now,
For you shall be filled.[e] Blessed are you who weep now, For you shall laugh. …” The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 6:20 – 21, NKJV)
2) A person can be “Blessed” whilst ‘mourning’ and suffering due to ‘persecution for doing right and teaching righteousness’, i.e. whilst not being “happy”
“… 4Blessed are those who mourn, For they shall be comforted. … 10Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake,
For theirs is the kingdom of heaven. 11Blessed are you when they revile and persecute you, and say all kinds of evil against you falsely for My sake. 12Rejoice and be exceedingly glad, for great is your reward in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 5:4, 10 – 12, NKJV)
3) Physical and Spiritual Meaning of being “Poor”
Both the spiritual meaning and physical meaning are true. Luke records the physical emphasis of say being “Blessed” due to being poor (Luke 6:20) due to obeying the Gospel due to the Doctrine of Renunciation of all possessions to become a Disciple of Christ (Luke 14:33) whilst Matthew highlights the being “Poor in spirit” spiritual aspect of this which is true as well (Matthew 5:3). Example Comparison is shown below:
i) Spiritually Poor for the Gospel – “Blessed are the Poor in spirit” refers to the generous rich believers who share their possessions with others
“… 3“Blessed are the poor in spirit, For theirs is the kingdom of heaven. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 5:3, NKJV)
ii) Literally poor for the Gospel – “Blessed are the Poor” who have renounced the world physically too following after Christ in the “Perfect” way to become the “Hundredfold” seed
“… 20The young man said to Him, “All these things I have kept [g]from my youth. What do I still lack?”
21Jesus said to him, “IF you want to be PERFECT, go, SELL what YOU HAVE and GIVE to the POOR, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, FOLLOW ME.” 22But when the young man heard that saying, he went away SORROWFUL, for he had GREAT POSSESSIONS.23Then Jesus said to His disciples, “Assuredly, I say to you that it is HARD for a RICH MAN TO ENTER THE KINGDOM OF HEAVEN. 24And AGAIN I say to you, it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God. … 27Then Peter answered and said to Him, “See, we have LEFT ALL and FOLLOWED YOU. Therefore what shall we have?” … 28So Jesus said to them, “Assuredly I say to you, that in the REGENERATION, when the Son of Man sits on the throne of His glory, you who have followed Me will also sit on twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel. 29And EVERYONE who has LEFT HOUSES or brothers or sisters or father or mother or wife or children or LANDS, for MY NAME’S SAKE, shall RECEIVE a HUNDREDFOLD, and INHERIT ETERNAL LIFE. 30But MANY who are FIRST will be LAST, and the LAST FIRST. …” (Matthew 19:20 – 24, 27 – 30, NKJV)
Please notice the word “Hundredfold” in Matthew 19:29 above referring to the parable of the Sower’s ‘thirty, sixty or hundredfold’ harvest Matthew 13:8. Please notice carefully also that the emphasis of Christ’s Own Most Blessed Words toward being “Perfect” (Matthew 19:21) toward a rich man who kept the Torah/Law/Holiness well (Matthew 19:20) is in the direction or emphasis of actual physical renunciation of possessions or riches for the Gospel, that is, in becoming “Blessed are the poor” in the Context of ‘physically poor voluntarily’. Please remember that Christ’s Own Words prove this Context in Verses quoted above and it is in regards to this that He Mysteriously echoes “… MANY who are FIRST will be LAST, and the LAST FIRST. …” In His Kingdom for failing to understand Vs able to understand and/or practice this.
The First Christianity Quote below by a saint accepted by both Protestant and Roman Catholic (or Orthodox) proves that this understanding is most accurate to Scripture in that both the “physically poor” and “spiritually poor” are “Blessed” to “inherit the kingdom of heaven” (so understanding this is vital for those who seek to Inherit His Kingdom), to quote:
“… 401 8r,3 But he does not know that the Old Testament also says, “The poor and the rich have met together: but the Lord is the maker of them both.” 402 And the New Testament agrees, and pronounces a BLESSING on the POOR who are LITERALLY POOR, and in ANOTHER PASSAGE a BLESSING on the POOR in SPIRIT, so that BOTH PRONOUNCEMENTS have FORCE. Thus Peter can point with pride to his LITERAL POVERTY and say, “Silver and gold have I none, but what I have, I give thee; in the name of Jesus Christ, rise up and walk,” 403 (4) so that the BLESSING of the ACTUALLY POOR means NOTHING CONTRADICTORY to the BLESSING of the POOR IN SPIRIT. The “POOR in SPIRIT” are persons in RIGHTEOUS POSSESSION of PROPERTY, while the “poor” are the humble, of whom Christ said, “I was an hungered, and YE GAVE ME MEAT, thirsty, and YE GAVE me DRINK,” and so on 81,5 Next he explains, ‘These (i.e., the POOR in SPIRIT) ACTED of THEIR ABUNDANCE”; 405 and you see one and the same Spirit speaking of the poor and the rich in the Old Testament and the same in the New, just as the Savior praises them both. (6) For as he was watching the treasury he saw people putting money into the treasury, and did NOT REFUSE the GIFTS of the RICH; but HE PRAISED the WIDOW who had put in the two mites for her [actual] POVERTY, as we have said, in fulfillment of the scripture, “The poor and the rich have met together: but the Lord is the maker of them both.” 406 (81,7) And to show that this is so, and the Spirit of the Old and the New Testaments is the same, see the apostle say of the ancient prophets, “The time would fail me to tell of Gideon, Barak, Samson, Jephtha, David and the other prophets who wandered about in sheepskins, in goatskins, being tormented, straitened, afflicted, of whom the world was not worthy.” 407 For I have found that Isaiah wore sackcloth, and Elijah too. And do you see how, in the Old and the New Testaments, the poor are called blessed for piety, and the rich are called blessed for righteousness? …” – Blessed St. Epiphanius, Bishop of Salamis and the ‘Hammer of Heretics’, (c. 310 AD – c. 403 AD, ‘MANICHAEANS’ , “Panarion or Medicine-Chest”, Point 62.10, Pages 308 – 309)
Source:
https://archive.org/stream/EpiphaniusPanarionBksIIIII1/Epiphanius%20-%20_Panarion_%20-%20Bks%20II%20%26%20III%20-%201_djvu.txt
Conclusion – Being “Blessed” is great but the Bible doesn’t end there but Speaks of being “more blessed” too for those who wish to attain to this deepest Spiritual Treasure. How? Please consider the following Verses:
i. A person is already “Blessed” if they believe in Christ in faith (without seeing)
“… Jesus saith unto him, Thomas, because thou hast SEEN ME, THOU hast BELIEVED: BLESSED are they that have NOT SEEN, and YET have BELIEVED. …” (John 20:29, KJV)
ii. However it is “MORE BLESSED” if they don’t just believe in faith but practice the actual doctrine of physical renunciation of earthly Possessions either by sharing it with others or completely giving it away, Verses:
“… 33I have coveted no one’s silver or gold or apparel. 34Yes, you yourselves know that these hands have provided for my necessities, and for those who were with me. 35I have shown you in every way, by laboring like this, that you must support the weak. And remember the words of the Lord Jesus, that He said, ‘It is MORE BLESSED to GIVE than to RECEIVE.’ …” Blessed St. Paul the Great Apostle of Christ (Acts 20:32 – 35, NKJV)
So Apostle St. Paul’s words above Explain Christ’s Words of actual Physical Renunciation of Possessions Voluntarily (Luke 14:33) to be “Poor” literally due to ‘Giving to Charity or the Poor’ (Luke 12:30 – 34, Matthew 19:21) as the Way to be “MORE BLESSED”.
This is why the First Pentecostal Church Immediately Practiced this Doctrine Perfectly upon being Baptized by the Holy Spirit, Verses:
“… 44Now all who BELIEVED were together, and had ALL THINGS in COMMON, 45and SOLD their POSSESSIONS and goods, and divided them among all, as anyone had need. 46So continuing DAILY with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, they ate their food with gladness and SIMPLICITY of HEART, 47praising God and having favor with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily those who were being saved. …” (Acts 2:44 – 47, NKJV)
Only then True Unity in “HEART and SOUL” level is achieved because by doing so, one truly loves God and their neighbor as themselves fulfilling the two Greatest Commands (Mark 12:30 – 34), Verses:
“… 32Now the multitude of those who BELIEVED were of ONE HEART and ONE SOUL; neither did anyone say that ANY of the THINGS he POSSESSED was HIS OWN, but they had ALL THINGS in COMMON. … 34Nor was there anyone among them who lacked; for ALL who were POSSESSORS of LANDS or HOUSES SOLD them, and brought the proceeds of the things that were sold, 35and laid them at the apostles’ feet; and they DISTRIBUTED to each as ANYONE had NEED. 36And Joses, who was also named Barnabas by the apostles (which is translated Son of Encouragement), a Levite of the country of Cyprus, 37having land, sold it, and brought the money and laid it at the apostles’ feet. …” (Acts 4:32, 34 – 37, NKJV)
“… 32So the scribe said to Him, “Well said, Teacher. You have spoken the truth, for there is one God, and there is no other but He. 33And TO LOVE HIM with all the heart, with all the understanding, with all the soul, and with all the strength, and to LOVE ONE’S NEIGHBOR AS ONESELF, is MORE THAN all the WHOLE BURNT OFFERINGS and SACRIFICES.” 34Now when Jesus saw that he answered wisely, He said to him, “You are NOT FAR from the KINGDOM OF GOD.” But after that no one dared question Him. …” (Mark 12:32 – 34, NKJV)
Self Examination – Are we really Following Christ?
Following Christ includes the physical wealth aspect also where Christ became “Poor Voluntarily” by helping the poor & needy and “not prosperous in luxury and money”. Verses:
“… 3Now by this we know that we know Him, if we keep His commandments. 4He who says, “I know Him,” and does not keep His commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him. 5But whoever keeps His word, truly the love of God [a]is perfected in him. By this we know that we are in Him. 6He who says he abides in Him ought himself also to walk just as He walked. … 15Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. …” – Blessed St. John the only non-martyr Apostle of Christ (1 John 2:3 – 6, 15, NKJV)
Please notice carefully that “His Commandments” to keep (1 John 2:6) includes the “wealth renunciation commands” to “not love the World” as 1 John 2:15 (Verse in this same chapter/context includes). Can you see it? Since the Bible did not come with separation of chapters (which were later added), in 1 John 3 this context of which of “His Commandments” to keep includes also the possession sharing to those in need around us as Verses below clearly imply:
“… 16By this we know love, because He laid down His life for us. And we also ought to lay down our lives for the brethren. 17But whoever has this world’s goods, and sees his brother in need, and shuts up his heart from him, how does the love of God abide in him? 18My little children, let us not love in word or in tongue, but in deed and in truth. …” – Blessed St. John the only non-martyr Apostle of Christ (1 John 3:16 – 18, NKJV)
“… 14[c]Because narrow is the gate and [d]difficult is the way which leads to life, and there are few who find it. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 7:14, NKJV)
Church Gathering Mystery – People and not Building
Verses:
“… 23Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for He who promised is faithful. 24And let us consider one another in order to stir up love and good works, 25NOT FORSAKING THE ASSEMBLING OF OURSELVES TOGETHER, as is the manner of some, but exhorting one another, and so much the more as you see the Day approaching. …” (Hebrews 10:23 – 25, NKJV)
What do these Verses mean?
This means
1) Do Good Works
2) Meet with Believers
3) The Day refers to the Second Coming of Christ
Point 2) Elaborated regarding the meaning of “… 25NOT FORSAKING THE ASSEMBLING OF OURSELVES TOGETHER, …” may thus be elaborated based on Acts 2:42 – 46 as “Daily” they “broke bread” together (meaning most likely Holy Communion) as they lived in common houses sharing in a “Daily” manner as opposed to ‘once in a week Saturday/Sunday Church meeting these days’. So the Context is not Church as per the building (as that didn’t exist) but meet-ups in the Temple and more so meet-ups from “house to house” in common living by sharing in common with other believers:
“… 42And they continued steadfastly in the apostles’ [n] DOCTRINE and FELLOWSHIP, in the BREAKING OF BREAD, AND IN PRAYERS. 43Then fear came upon every soul, and many wonders and signs were done through the apostles. 44Now ALL WHO BELIEVED WERE TOGETHER, and HAD ALL THINGS IN COMMON, 45and [o]sold their possessions and goods, and divided[p] them among all, as anyone had need.46So CONTINUING DAILY with one accord in the TEMPLE, and BREAKING BREAD FROM HOUSE TO HOUSE, they ate their food with gladness and simplicity of heart, 47praising God and having favor with all the people. And the Lord added [q]to the CHURCH DAILY those who were being saved. …” (Acts 2:42 – 47, NKJV)
Let Scripture interpret Scripture.
“… 25NOT FORSAKING THE ASSEMBLING OF OURSELVES TOGETHER …” (Hebrews 10:25) = “… DOCTRINE and FELLOWSHIP, in the BREAKING OF BREAD, AND IN PRAYERS. … ALL WHO BELIEVED WERE TOGETHER, and HAD ALL THINGS IN COMMON, … 46So CONTINUING DAILY with one accord in the TEMPLE, and BREAKING BREAD FROM HOUSE TO HOUSE, … the Lord added [q]to the CHURCH DAILY those who were being saved. …” (Acts 2:42 – 47, highlighted parts).
First Christianity understood it likewise, example quote:
“… For if I in this brief space of time, have enjoyed such fellowship with your bishop–I mean not of a mere human, but of a spiritual nature–how much more do I reckon you happy who are so joined to him as the Church is to Jesus Christ, and as Jesus Christ is to the Father, that so all things may agree in unity! Let no man deceive himself: if any one be not within the altar, he is deprived of the bread of God. For if the prayer of one or two possesses such power, how much more that of the bishop and the whole Church ! He, therefore, that does not assemble with the Church, has even by this manifested his pride, and condemned himself. For it is written, “God resisteth the proud.” Let us be careful, then, not to set ourselves in opposition to the bishop, in order that we may be subject to God. … Take heed, then, often to come together to give thanks to God, and show forth His praise. For when ye assemble frequently in the same place, the powers of Satan are destroyed, and the destruction at which he aims is prevented by the unity of your faith. Nothing is more precious than peace, by which all war, both in heaven and earth, is brought to an end. …” – Blessed St. Ignatius, Bishop of Antioch, nicknamed ‘God-Bearing’, An Apostolic Father being the direct Disciple of the Blessed Apostle St. John, Martyr for Christ (c. 35 AD – c. 108 AD, Epistle to the Ephesians, CHAPTER V, CHAPTER XIII)
Source:
http://www.earlychristianwritings.com/text/ignatius-ephesians-roberts.html
What matters in such a gathering is not religious activities as much as fulfilling the Greatest Two Commands to “Love God and Love one’s neighbor as oneself” (Mark 12:30 – 34) in action by sharing their goods etc. (1 John 3:16 – 18) as that is the meaning of “fruit”:
“… The TREE is made MANIFEST BY ITS FRUIT; so those that profess themselves to be CHRISTIANS shall be RECOGNISED BY THEIR CONDUCT. For there is not now a demand for mere profession, but that a man be found continuing in the power of faith to the end. Wherefore none of the devices of the devil shall be hidden from you, if, like Paul, ye perfectly possess that faith and love towards Christ which are the beginning and the end of life. The BEGINNING OF LIFE IS FAITH, and THE END IS LOVE. And these two being inseparably connected together, do perfect the man of God; while all other things which are requisite to a holy life follow after them. No man making a profession of faith ought to sin, nor one possessed of love to hate his brother. For He that said, “Thou shalt LOVE THE LORD THY GOD,” said also, “AND THY NEIGHBOUR AS THYSELF.” (Mark 12:30 – 34) Those that profess themselves to be Christ’s are known not only by what they say, but by WHAT THEY PRACTISE. “For the TREE IS KNOWN BY ITS FRUIT.” (Matthew 7:16 – 23) …” – Blessed St. Ignatius, Bishop of Antioch, nicknamed ‘God-Bearing’, An Apostolic Father being the direct Disciple of the Blessed Apostle St. John, Martyr for Christ (c. 35 AD – c. 108 AD, Longer Epistle to the Ephesians, CHAPTER XIV)
Source:
http://www.earlychristianwritings.com/text/ignatius-ephesians-longer.html
The “Fruit” refers to “Good Works” according to St. Ignatius and plenty of First Christianity Church Leaders agreeing to Christ’s Own Words below too:
“… 14“You are the LIGHT OF THE WORLD. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden. 15Nor do they LIGHT A LAMP and put it under a basket, but on a lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house. 16Let your LIGHT so SHINE before men, that they may see YOUR GOOD WORKS and glorify your Father in heaven. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 5:14 – 16, NKJV)
The “Lamp with light” in Christ’s Words above have been referred as “Good Works” which keep the Faith alive as the ‘foolish virgins’ didn’t focus on this and lose their place in the First Resurrection:
“… 7Then all those virgins arose and trimmed their LAMPS. 8And the foolish said to the wise, ‘Give us some of your oil, for OUR LAMPS ARE GOING OUT.’ 9But the wise answered, saying, ‘No, lest there should not be enough for us and you; but go rather TO THOSE WHO SELL, AND BUY FOR YOURSELVES.’ 10And while they went to buy, the bridegroom came, and those who were ready went in with him to the wedding; and the door was shut. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 25:7 – 10, NKJV)
How to “buy and sell” to “keep one’s lamp lit”?
“… 31“But SEEK HIS KINGDOM, and THESE THINGS will be ADDED TO YOU. 32“Do not be afraid, little flock, for your Father has chosen gladly to give you the kingdom. 33“SELL YOUR POSSESSIONS and GIVE TO CHARITY; make yourselves money belts which do not wear out, an unfailing treasure in heaven, where no thief comes near nor moth destroys. 34“For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. 35“Be dressed in readiness, and KEEP YOUR LAMPS LIT. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 12:31 – 35, NASB)
Gift of Discernment – Great Biblical Wisdom relates to understanding and Doing the Charity Doctrine
Please read the Bible Verses below carefully. It does “not” say that ‘if you are wise you will be rich’ nor does it say ‘if you are poor then you are not wise’. What does it Say then? Please read it for yourself:
“… 11The rich man is wise in his own eyes,
But the poor who has understanding searches him out. …” (Proverbs 28:11, NKJV)
Source:
https://biblehub.com/nkjv/proverbs/28.htm
The Septuagint reads slightly differently:
“… 11A rich man is wise in his own conceit; but an intelligent poor man will condemn him. …” (Proverbs 28:11, LXX, Brenton Septuagint Translation)
Source:
https://biblehub.com/sep/proverbs/28.htm
Note: Worldly ‘fake’ wisdom often teaches that an ‘intelligent’ man is one who can make a lot of money. However, the Septuagint Translation above clearly implies that you can be “intelligent” and “poor”. The Bible doesn’t condemn a “poor intelligent” man and say that he ought to be rich. Can you see it?
Not all rich men are evil. But usually it’s almost impossible to ‘not sin’ whilst pursuing richness especially in today’s economic methods.
The Greatest Pursuit in regards to Wealth is to seek “Heavenly Treasures” as Christ Himself exhorts in Verses below explaining how & why it’s so important is because our “heart” is tied to it whether we like it or not:
“… 31“But SEEK HIS KINGDOM, and THESE THINGS will be ADDED TO YOU. 32“Do not be afraid, little flock, for your Father has chosen gladly to give you the kingdom. 33“SELL YOUR POSSESSIONS and GIVE TO CHARITY; make yourselves money belts which do not wear out, an unfailing treasure in heaven, where no thief comes near nor moth destroys. 34“For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. 35“Be dressed in readiness, and KEEP YOUR LAMPS LIT. …” – The KING, The Wisest One, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 12:31 – 35, NASB)
In regards to Context, when Christ Declared His Wisdom as Greater than Solomon’s ever wondered what is the first “Topic” He Spoke of? In Verses below we clearly see that it’s the Mysterious Topic of “Charity Works” implying that it’s about the Greatest Wisdom God Revealed is in regards to this:
“… The queen of the South will rise up in the judgment with the men of this generation and condemn them, for she came from the ends of the earth to hear the wisdom of Solomon; and indeed a GREATER THAN SOLOMON IS HERE. … 34The lamp of the body is the eye. Therefore, when your eye is [i]good, your whole body also is full of light. But when your eye is [j]bad, your body also is full of darkness. … 37And as He spoke, … 40Foolish ones! Did not He who made the outside make the inside also? 41But rather GIVE ALMS (CHARITY) of [l]such things as you have; then indeed ALL THINGS are CLEAN to YOU. …” – The KING, the Wisest One, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 11:31, 34, 37, 40 – 41, NKJV)
Regarding the ‘Hebrew Idiom’ of ‘Good Eye’ to mean ‘Generosity’ , please consider the post in link below:
https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=10160073978847784&id=651792783
and that the “Lamp with light refers to Good Works” (chiefly charity works including sharing with one another), please consider Christ’s Own Most Blessed Words below which in First Christianity, the earliest leaders quite unanimously taught likewise too of which the ‘foolish virgins’ failed to do as per the Parable of the 10 Virgins, 5 Wise and 5 Foolish:
“… 14“You are the LIGHT OF THE WORLD. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden. 15Nor do they LIGHT A LAMP and put it under a basket, but on a lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house. 16Let your LIGHT so SHINE before men, that they may see YOUR GOOD WORKS and glorify your Father in heaven. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 5:14 – 16, NKJV)
The “Lamp with light” in Christ’s Words above have been referred as “Good Works” which keep the Faith alive as the ‘foolish virgins’ didn’t focus on this and lose their place in the First Resurrection:
“… 7Then all those virgins arose and trimmed their LAMPS. 8And the foolish said to the wise, ‘Give us some of your oil, for OUR LAMPS ARE GOING OUT.’ 9But the wise answered, saying, ‘No, lest there should not be enough for us and you; but go rather TO THOSE WHO SELL, AND BUY FOR YOURSELVES.’ 10And while they went to buy, the bridegroom came, and those who were ready went in with him to the wedding; and the door was shut. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 25:7 – 10, NKJV)
How to “buy and sell” to “keep one’s lamp lit”?
“… 31“But SEEK HIS KINGDOM, and THESE THINGS will be ADDED TO YOU. 32“Do not be afraid, little flock, for your Father has chosen gladly to give you the kingdom. 33“SELL YOUR POSSESSIONS and GIVE TO CHARITY; make yourselves money belts which do not wear out, an unfailing treasure in heaven, where no thief comes near nor moth destroys. 34“For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. 35“Be dressed in readiness, and KEEP YOUR LAMPS LIT. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 12:31 – 35, NASB)
How important is understanding the Charity Doctrine in regards to Righteousness?
Even Salvation itself is an Act of Charity by God to us where He Paid the Price in Full. Can you see it?
Can Roman Catholics and Orthodox be Saved from a Protestant Viewpoint?
The main thing Protestants differ from Roman Catholics and Orthodox Christianity is in the area of “praying to Virgin Mary, Saints and Angels” together with the idols associated with it. Generally protestants agree that other Roman Catholic doctrinal error may “not” affect Salvation but an error in this area can cause them to be “unsaved” too.
So, is there Biblical Hope for them if the Protestants are right? (Personally, I am a Protestant).
It’s “Possible” based on this Verse:
“… Let no one cheat you of your reward, taking delight in false humility and worship of angels, intruding into those things which he has not seen, vainly puffed up by his fleshly mind, …” (Colossians 2:18, NKJV)
Please allow me to repeat it with emphasis:
“… Let NO ONE CHEAT YOU of YOUR REWARD, taking delight in false humility and WORSHIP OF ANGELS, intruding into those things which he has not seen, vainly puffed up by his fleshly mind, …” (Colossians 2:18, NKJV)
Please take note that “Worshipping Angels” is worse than “Praying to Angels”. But even then the loss described in Verse above is ‘not necessarily Salvation’ but a ‘LOSS of [Heavenly] REWARD’. I do not see that the phrase of losing a reward is losing one’s Salvation. I could be wrong but so far I see the Verse implying a possible Salvation but a certain loss of Reward for “Worshipping Angels”.
So, if “Worshipping Angels” only causes a Christian to lose their heavenly reward and not their Salvation (as that’s most likely the meaning here), then “praying to Angels/Mary” likewise might be a smaller error compared to this and hence may result in a loss of reward likewise too (Matthew 5:19 Speak of Heavenly Gradation due to keeping Vs breaking His Commands).
I am NOT encouraging what I believe to be the error of praying to/worshipping angels or equivalent, but also want to be careful “not” to condemn beyond what the Bible Verse Speaks in this Context. So, best is, let God Decide but personally, I see hope for their Salvation but also loss of rewards for erring in these areas if they get the “Love God & Love your neighbor” part right (The Two Greatest Commands, Mark 12:30 – 34). The Bible condemns the “Prosperity Gospel” with more severe words, for example in Verse below the phrase “consume your flesh like fire” for “hoarding money (gold + silver) for self prosperity” in these “last days” context:
“… Your gold and your silver have rusted; and their rust will be a witness against you and will CONSUME YOUR FLESH LIKE FIRE. It is in the LAST DAYS that you have STORED UP YOUR TREASURE! …” (James 5:3, NASB)
This is probably because the Prosperity Gospel breaks the Second Greatest Commandment by “not” loving one’s neighbor as yourself (Matthew 12:30 – 34) as without which one cannot be a Disciple of Christ (Luke 14:33). This is discussed further in example links below:
i) Prosperity Gospel and Polygamy are both Sin in the Torah if you are a King
https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=10160363891107784&id=651792783
ii) Self Examination – Are we really Following Christ?
https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=10160376603432784&id=651792783
iii) True “Blessing” Mystery – How to be “Blessed” and “More Blessed”?
https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=10160376539977784&id=651792783
P/S: Example of some Verses broken due to Christian Idol Worship of Jesus/Mary/Saints
“… 4“You shall not make for yourself a carved image—any likeness of anything that is in heaven above, or that is in the earth beneath, or that is in the water under the earth; 5you shall not bow down to them nor [b]serve them. For I, the Lord your God, am a jealous God, visiting[c] the iniquity of the fathers upon the children to the third and fourth generations of those who hate Me, 6but showing mercy to thousands, to those who love Me and keep My commandments. …” (Exodus 20:4 – 6, NKJV)
“… For there is one God and one Mediator between God and men, the Man Christ Jesus, …” (1 Timothy 2:5, NKJV)
“… 22Abstain from every form of evil. …” (1 Thessalonians 5:22, NKJV)
No idol of Christ/God also is permitted for Christians:
“… 15“Take careful heed to yourselves, for you saw no form when the Lord spoke to you at Horeb out of the midst of the fire, 16lest you act corruptly and make for yourselves a carved image in the [e]form of any figure: the likeness of male or female. …” (Deuteronomy 4:15 – 16, NKJV)
Conclusion
These are examples of ‘false humility’ as the Verse below includes the context of “Worshipping Angels”:
“… Let no one cheat you of your reward, taking delight in false humility and worship of angels, intruding into those things which he has not seen, vainly puffed up by his fleshly mind, …” (Colossians 2:18, NKJV)
Religion Context
Fake gods do not care about the Poor – The True God Will Judge them
Verses:
“… 1God stands in the congregation of [a]the mighty; He judges among the [b]gods.
2How long will you judge unjustly,
And show partiality to the wicked? Selah
3[c]Defend the poor and fatherless;
Do justice to the afflicted and needy.
4Deliver the poor and needy;
Free them from the hand of the wicked. …” (Psalm 82:1 – 4, NKJV)
The word “Elohim” (translated as “gods”) above does not refer to human beings but angelic authorities because the phrase “die like men” (a curse upon them that do not do the Verses above) means that they’re not men to begin with, as Consecutive Verses in this same chapter describes this part about them too:
“… 6I said, “You are [e]gods,
And all of you are children of the Most High.
7But you shall die like men,
And fall like one of the princes.” …” (Psalm 82:6 – 7, NKJV)
These ‘evil gods’ are ‘fallen angels’, Verse:
“… For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places. …” (Ephesians 6:12, NKJV)
The Septuagint reads similarly as per link below:
https://biblehub.com/sep/psalms/82.htm
Conclusion – This is God’s Will for Religion
The Followers of God ought to likewise defend the poor, fatherless and widow as that’s true religion and religious activities without that aspect are completely pointless, Verses:
“… 25But he who looks into the perfect law of liberty and continues in it, and is not a forgetful hearer but a doer of the work, this one will be blessed in what he does. 26If anyone [e]among you thinks he is religious, and does not bridle his tongue but deceives his own heart, this one’s religion is useless. 27Pure and undefiled religion before God and the Father is this: to visit orphans and widows in their trouble, and to keep oneself unspotted from the world. …” (James 1:25 – 27, NKJV)
Are we Really Seeking His Kingdom as His Church or Seeking Prosperity for Self Enjoyment?
“… All these things will be added to you …” – Prosperity Preachers like to Quote this part (Verse in image too)
However, the Verses in image did not end there teaching Prosperity Hoarding but the Seeking of His Kingdom is only complete with the sharing or “Give to Charity” Command Christ Mentions in these ‘same’ Verses / Command , “Context”:
“… 31“But SEEK HIS KINGDOM, and THESE THINGS will be ADDED TO YOU. 32“Do not be afraid, little flock, for your Father has chosen gladly to give you the kingdom. 33“SELL YOUR POSSESSIONS and GIVE TO CHARITY; make yourselves money belts which do not wear out, an unfailing treasure in heaven, where no thief comes near nor moth destroys. 34“For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. 35“Be dressed in readiness, and KEEP YOUR LAMPS LIT. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 12:31 – 35, NASB)
Logic: If our source of “these things added to you” comes from “God”, then Christ has the Right to ask us to share/Give to Charity because ultimately it’s all His.
I struggle to do this even a little but that’s what it means when the Verses are quoted in “full” which helps us to understand the meaning of “Seek His Kingdom” in the ‘Fullest’ manner.
Prosperity Hoarding/Living is completely “out of Context” of these Verses simply because in this ‘same Chapter’ just a few Verses earlier (hence ‘same Context’) Christ told this regarding ‘Prosperity Hoarding/Living’ in the New Testament Age:
“… So is he who lays up treasure for himself, and is not rich toward God. …” – Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 12:21, NKJV)
Can you really see it ‘as it is Written’? (Luke records more of this Conversation than Matthew)
Workers of God and not Believers only
As I have said several times before, I do believe that Christians can come from any mainstream denomination of Christianity despite doctrinal errors differing according to the accuracy of their faith in becoming the type of “Vessel” they ought to be, be it “Gold, Silver etc.” as Verses below describe:
“… 20But in a great house there are not only vessels of gold and silver, but also of wood and clay, some for honor and some for dishonor. …” (2 Timothy 2:20, NKJV)
Conclusion
The other Verses in this same chapter (hence “same context”) reveals the following traits amongst believers:
1) God is Looking for WORKERS which is a sign that they are APPROVED to do EVERY GOOD WORK and not believers only from which He determines whether we are of ‘Gold, Silver value rewards etc.’
“… 15Be diligent to present yourself APPROVED to God, a WORKER who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth. … 20But in a great house there are not only vessels of GOLD and SILVER, but also of wood and clay, some for honor and some for dishonor. 21Therefore if anyone cleanses himself from the latter, he will be a VESSEL for HONOR, [h]sanctified and useful for the Master, PREPARED for EVERY GOOD WORK …” (2 Timothy 2:15, 20 – 21, NKJV)
2) Understanding Human Weakness, God’s Word already Prophesied that it is ‘false teachings’ which will succeed in ‘spreading like cancer’ (i.e. ‘fast and widespread’) but will have “no” emphasis on GOOD WORKS. If we are not sure about ‘deep doctrinal accuracy’, it’s okay as long as it does “not” increase “ungodliness” (e.g. Pre-Trib vs Post-Trib Rapture but getting it right merits greater rewards as that’s the ‘faith challenge’). However, ‘false teachings’ which increase “ungodliness” such as encouraging others to sin (e.g. teaching that fornication is ok, drunkenness is cool or loving money in Prosperity enjoyment instead of ‘a must for every soldier of Christ to endure hardship’ etc.), overthrowing the faith of others (e.g. Teaching that the First Resurrection has happened already or equivalent false prophecies that did ‘not’ come to pass) or not emphasizing on doing GOOD WORKS but focusing on ‘vain apologetics’ (e.g. for self glory, money making, running down others without following the New Testament Rules) may be ‘Dangerous’ indeed, Verses:
“… 2And the things that you have heard from me among many witnesses, commit these to faithful men who will be able to teach others also. 3You therefore MUST endure[a] HARDSHIP as a GOOD SOLDIER of Jesus Christ. 4No one engaged in warfare entangles himself with the affairs of this life, that he may please him who enlisted him as a soldier. 5And also if anyone competes in athletics, he is NOT CROWNED unless he COMPETES ACCORDING to THE RULES. … 14Remind them of these things, charging them before the Lord not to [d]strive about words to no profit, to the ruin of the hearers. … 16But shun profane and [e]idle babblings, for they will [f]increase to more ungodliness. 17And their message will spread like cancer. Hymenaeus and Philetus are of this sort, 18who have strayed concerning the truth, saying that the resurrection is already past; and they overthrow the faith of some. … 23But avoid foolish and ignorant disputes, knowing that they generate strife. 24And a servant of the Lord must not quarrel but be gentle to all, able to teach, patient, 25in humility correcting those who are in opposition, if God perhaps will grant them repentance, so that they may know the truth, …” – (2 Timothy 2:2 – 5, 14, 16 – 18, 23 – 25, NKJV)
3) Please consider the following emphasis on ‘Sound Doctrine’ based on these same Verses:
1. The only Christian Leaders who are Approved are those who Repeat the ‘Same Doctrine’ Blessed Apostle St. Paul Taught to Evangelist Timothy in every place and every church (not those who ‘change the doctrine according to mere human culture or opinions’):
“… 2And the things that you have heard from me among many witnesses, commit these to faithful men who will be able to teach others also. …” (2 Timothy 2:2, NKJV)
“… 15For though you might have ten thousand instructors in Christ, yet you do not have many fathers; for in Christ Jesus I have begotten you through the gospel. 16Therefore I URGE YOU, IMITATE ME. 17For THIS REASON I have sent TIMOTHY to you, who is my beloved and FAITHFUL son in the Lord, who will remind you of my ways in Christ, as I TEACH EVERYWHERE in EVERY CHURCH. …” (1 Corinthians 4:15 – 17, NKJV)
Please notice carefully that these two set of Verses are closely linked because Apostle Paul clearly refers to Timothy as a “faithful” son of the faith who teaches the ‘same doctrine’ from which we can learn that men who teach against Apostle Paul’s Inspired Letters may ‘not be faithful’ (a sign – can you see it?).
2. No Prosperity Gospel but a Voluntary Suffering for a Gospel according to one’s Choice and Ability
“… 3You therefore MUST endure[a] HARDSHIP as a GOOD SOLDIER of Jesus Christ. …” (2 Timothy 2:3, NKJV)
3. No Prosperity Gospel by entangling in the current ‘earthly things/desires’ but the Doctrine of Renunciation (via sharing or giving to others) is a must for every Disciple of Christ
“… 4No one engaged in warfare entangles himself with the affairs of this life, that he may please him who enlisted him as a soldier. …” (2 Timothy 2:4, NKJV)
“… So then, none of you can be My disciple who does not give up all his own possessions. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 14:33, NASB)
4. No Gospel Effort/Act Done whilst against New Testament Rules (e.g. 1 Corinthians 14:37 – 38) may be recognized for Rewards
“… 5And also if anyone competes in athletics, he is NOT CROWNED unless he COMPETES ACCORDING to THE RULES. … 14Remind them of these things, charging them before the Lord not to [d]strive about words to no profit, to the ruin of the hearers. … ” (2 Timothy 2:5, 14, NKJV)
“… 36Or did the word of God originate with you? Or are you the only people it has reached? 37If anyone thinks they are a prophet or otherwise gifted by the Spirit, let them acknowledge that what I am writing to you is the Lord’s command. 38But if ANYONE IGNORES THIS, THEY WILL THEMSELVES BE IGNORED. …” (1 Corinthians 14:36 – 38, NIV)
Note: Please do “not” ignore “Bible Verses/New Testament Rules” and reap the ‘same ignore’ we did to God’s Word losing Great Rewards in His Kingdom as ‘obedience is better than sacrifices’ done whilst against God’s Word (1 Samuel 15:22).
5. Relative Measure
“… 47And that servant who knew his master’s will, and did not prepare himself or do according to his will, shall be beaten with many stripes. 48But he who did not know, yet committed things deserving of stripes, shall be beaten with few. For everyone to whom much is given, from him much will be required; and to whom much has been committed, of him they will ask the more. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 12:47 – 48, NKJV)
Every Christian has a ‘fair chance’ before God as God does “not” count based on results but based on what you do with what you’re given as the case of the Poor Widow with Two Coins though her giving is hardly able to feed anyone but yet Christ Assures that ‘she outdid them all’, Verses:
“… 1And He looked up and saw the rich putting their gifts into the treasury, 2and He saw also a certain poor widow putting in two mites.[a] 3So He said, “Truly I say to you that this poor widow has put in more than all; 4for all these out of their abundance have put in offerings [b]for God, but she out of her poverty put in all the livelihood that she had.” …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 21:1 – 4, NKJV)
Note: By allowing ‘relative measure in Judgment’ (Luke 12:46 – 48) as the example of ‘Giving of the Poor Widow’ shows How Christ Sees it (Luke 21:1 – 4) above, we see the ‘Wisdom of God’ in neutralizing all racism & unjust practices which can be present in His Kingdom Work too. For example, they are Christians who are still racists or money-loving and may prefer financing mission works toward their own races only or to higher-income group outreach so it can benefit them financially later. Also, there are also Christians who don’t allow other Christians of different race/income group to be involved in ‘ministries of their Church’ or even ‘they won’t support at all unless you are the same race/denomination as them’.
So ‘relative measure’ in Judgment as Christ Puts it as “… For everyone to whom much is given, from him much will be required …” makes it Fair for All. Just do your best for His Kingdom!
No more Jew-Greek or Male-Female in Christ Mystery
Verses:
“… 26For YOU ARE ALL SONS OF GOD THROUGH FAITH in Christ Jesus. 27For as many of you as were baptized into Christ have put on Christ. 28There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is neither male nor female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus. 29And if you are Christ’s, then YOU ARE ABRAHAM’S SEED, and HEIRS ACCORDING TO THE PROMISE. …” (Galatians 3:26 – 28, NKJV)
This set of Verses is one of the most popular one which is often quoted “out of context” especially in modern Christianity.
Explanation:
Please notice that the definition or meaning is as follows within the Verse itself:
“… 28There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is neither male nor female …” = “… 26For YOU ARE ALL SONS OF GOD THROUGH FAITH in Christ Jesus … you are all one in Christ Jesus …” = “… YOU ARE ABRAHAM’S SEED, and HEIRS ACCORDING TO THE PROMISE. …”.
Please notice “carefully” that in Verses Surrounding Galatians 3 or 4 or in the whole letter of Galatians, after quoting “no more male-female”, Apostle Paul did “not” then ordain women apostles (or equivalent, against 1 Corinthians 14:33, 1 Timothy 2:12) to change the “Commands of the Lord” (as he taught in 1 Corinthians 14:37) which he teaches not just in the Corinthian Church nor for culture as some err so easily but to “every church, everywhere” too as it is Written in 1 Corinthians 4:17.
Similar after writing, Galatians 3:26 – 29, Apostle Paul does not in any part of Galatians itself or anywhere else say, something like ‘… Since there is no more Jew-Gentile, the Gentile can be circumcised and keep the Torah if they want …’. So those parts still hold for example in Galatians 5:2 – 5 in this same letter itself he speaks of Gentiles Vs Jews distinction where Gentile Believers ought not to be circumcised and in Galatians 2:11 – 16 whilst scolding Apostle Peter acknowledges that the Jewish believers were keeping the Law but Apostle Peter and some with him were the ones trying to live like Gentiles and were called hypocrite for doing both hence proving this distinction to exist still on earth now (agreeing to Acts 21:20 – 25).
In other words, after writing Galatians 3:26 – 28, in other parts of Galatians we see Apostle Paul upholding Jew-Gentile differences in observations of the Torah (e.g. Galatians 5:2 – 5, Galatians 2:11 – 16) while in 1 Corinthians speaks of Church order and Individual order to follow different observances as male Vs female believers where those who follow it are “Praised”, not condemned as bigots in 1 Corinthians 11:2 as the way to follow Christ as Paul demonstrated by God’s Will in 1 Corinthians 11:1. Verses:
“… 1Be ye followers of me, even as I also am of Christ. 2Now I PRAISE you, brethren, that ye remember me in all things, and KEEP THE ORDINANCES, as I DELIVERED them to you. …” (1 Corinthians 11:1 – 2, KJV)
I am not sure if a person can be Unsaved for not obeying these but certainly there is some strong Warning in 1 Corinthians 14:38 where “anyone who ignores these Commands of the Lord” (not Paul’s cultural opinions, 1 Corinthians 14:37) may be “ignored likewise” (1 Corinthians 14:38) either implies a loss or reward (Matthew 5:19 – 20, Matthew 7:24, 2 Timothy 2:5) or worse. So, why take the risk?
Church History: No one in First Christianity nor even among the Protestant Reformers taught to ordain say any Women priests nor even for Gentile Believers to follow abolished Torah customs. So I am not teaching something new but something which has been agreed by all of them against these modern twisting and errings which come only from these modern times to please men or women likewise.
The no more Jew Vs Gentile or male Vs female difference is in the context of inheriting the Kingdom as it is Written in Galatians in the Topic of being “sons of God” referring to the First Resurrection. On earth, the Jew Vs Gentile differences in the non-essential customs of the Torah exist as per the Apostolic Jerusalem Council Decision which in practice can be seen clearly in Acts 21:20 – 25. The example of male Vs female differences in observances on earth can be seen in 1 Corinthians 11 to 14. If there are no difference on earth itself, these Verses need not be Written and these “New Testament” Bible Verses have no meaning if they can be ignored by Christians. Apostle Paul wrote all these Bible Verses.
So Apostle Paul taught and observed male-female differences in observances (e.g. 1. Corinthians 11 – 14, let’s also remember that Christ Chose all His Twelve Apostles as “Male only”) and Jew-Gentile difference in observances (e.g. Acts 21:20 – 25, Acts 15:28 – 29) while teaching that in the age to come of the First Resurrection (Luke 20:35 – 36, Revelation 20:4 – 6), we inherit the Kingdom equally with no such distinctions as Abraham’s heir of Faith as “Sons of God” as Galatians 3:26 – 28.
Yes, Galatians 3:26 – 28 is a Prophecy into the Future at that time which is believed in faith now as the “Kingdom” reigning on earth hasn’t started till the “last 7th trumpet” is blown and God Returns to Judge the world (Revelation 11:15 – 18) at the end of the Reign of the Final Antichrist Destroying him first (Revelation 19) ushering His 1000 years Millennial Reign and the First Resurrection (Revelation 20:4 – 10) which ends with “Judgment Day” being Revealed (Revelation 20:11 – 15).
Conclusion
Better to be ignored by men who don’t like you preaching such “New Testament Rules” than be ignored by God as these Verses prove, an example:
“… 34Women f should remain silent in the churches. They are not allowed to speak, but must be in submission, as the law says. 35If they want to inquire about something, they should ask their own husbands at home; for it is disgraceful for a woman to speak in the church. 36Or did the word of God originate with you? Or are you the only people it has reached? 37If anyone thinks they are a PROPHET or otherwise GIFTED BY THE SPIRIT, let them ACKNOWLEDGE that what I am WRITING to you is the LORD’S COMMAND. 38But IF ANYONE IGNORES THIS, THEY WILL THEMSELVES BE IGNORED …” (1 Corinthians 14:34 – 38, NIV)
I don’t see it as a small thing if God’s Word in Verse above gives such a strong Warning against such disorder. Also, the Verse above assures that “no prophet or spiritual person (i.e. Spirit Led person exists)” who will teach against it. So please be careful thus we speak against His Holy Spirit as these are the “Lord’s Commands” and are judged severely.
Apostle Paul says he teaches this same rule in all churches everywhere and not to the Corinthian Church only and since he is the Apostle to the Gentiles, it applies in all Gentile Churches as the Verses below say that he is a ‘spiritual father’ and warns not to follow your ‘pastors or guardians’ against what he teaches in 1 Corinthians’ Rules and urges true Gentile believers to “Imitate him” (hence this is the only true spiritual parenting as this Verse is often quoted but not practiced correctly to prove this Biblical Concept), Verses:
“… 14I am writing this not to shame you but to warn you as my dear children. 15Even if you had ten thousand guardians in Christ, you do not have many fathers, for in Christ Jesus I BECAME YOUR FATHER THROUGH THE GOSPEL. 16Therefore I URGE YOU TO IMITATE ME. 17For this reason I have sent to you Timothy, my son whom I love, who is faithful in the Lord. He will remind you of my way of life in Christ Jesus, which agrees with WHAT I TEACH EVERYWHERE IN EVERY CHURCH. …” (1 Corinthians 4:14 – 17, NIV)
When it comes to such details, some are ASHAMED of the Gospel of Christ hence make up new rules to please men fearing also that they may lose business or friends due to a stand in the Rules regarding these areas:
“… For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ, for it is the power of God to salvation for everyone who believes, for the Jew first and also for the Greek …” (Romans 1:16, NKJV)
So, are we ashamed of CHRIST because it was Christ Who Gave these Commands, not Paul as 1 Corinthians 14:37 points clearly so if men speak evil of you due to this, the Verse below applies for standing up for “His Sake/His Commands or His Words”:
“… 10Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, For theirs is the kingdom of heaven. 11Blessed are you when they revile and persecute you, and say all kinds of evil against you falsely for My sake. 12Rejoice and be exceedingly glad, for great is your reward in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 5:10 – 12, NKJV)
There’s a local Malay saying which says, ‘… Kita ada Undang …’ which means ‘… We have a Law …’ in the context of Walking Orderly.
“… Let all things be done decently and in order …” (1 Corinthians 14:40, NKJV)
Please remember to Love your enemies like how Christ Demonstrated with the Pharisees where Loving them doesn’t mean that you need to agree with their doctrine. You can disagree and love them.
Biblical Women Ministry by Blessed Charles Spurgeon, the Prince of Preachers
(Protestant Champion of Faith)
Each quote in image is from Source below:
Women Ministry by Blessed John Wesley
Blessed John Wesley didn’t allow Women Preaching from the Pulpit as sometimes quoted but only during “Divine Move” as the quote in image explains this well.
It is well known that he held to Male leadership despite his mother disobeying it (which didn’t influence his Theological Stand on it) will be a more appropriate sentence describing this. Please note carefully the highlighted phrase in image by Blessed John Wesley’s own words in that unless extraordinary circumstances, it is “unlawful for women to speak in Church” which is taught in both in 1 Corinthians 14:33 – 34 and 1 Timothy 2:12.
Just because he allowed Special circumstances, the Methodist movement took it too far and out of context today claiming that he is the first in the Protestant movement to allow women to become pastors etc. He didn’t ordain her as a pastor and she (Sarah Crosby) preached at an orphanage, not the Church. If anything more he allowed, it’s certainly not based on any Bible Verses.
Source for quote in image:
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Women_in_the_Protestant_Reformation
Special Case of Deborah and Women Ministry Biblically by Blessed John Calvin
Fact: There is not one man whose writings have influenced Protestant Theology as much as Blessed John Calvin (yes even more in theological depth and accuracy than Blessed Martin Luther even).
In quote in Image or below in detail Blessed John Calvin reaffirms the Truth that Pastoral leaderships are only for men (even as Levitical Priesthood was only for sons of Aaron which means Prophetess like Deborah does “not” interfere in those things), to quote his own words as follows regarding:
i) Blessed John Calvin’s Commentary on 1 Timothy 2:12
“… Verse 12
12But I suffer not a woman to teach. Not that he takes from them the charge of instructing their family, but only excludes them from the office of teaching, which God has committed to men only. On this subject we have explained our views in the exposition of the First Epistle to the Corinthians. (39) If any one bring forward, by way of objection, Deborah (Jude 4:4) and others of the same class, of whom we read that they were at one time appointed by the command of God to govern the people, the answer is easy. Extraordinary acts done by God do not overturn the ordinary rules of government, by which he intended that we should be bound. Accordingly, if women at one time held the office of prophets and teachers, and that too when they were supernaturally called to it by the Spirit of God, He who is above all law might do this; but, being a peculiar case, (40) this is not opposed to the constant and ordinary system of government.
He adds — what is closely allied to the office of teaching — and not to assume authority over the man; for the very reason, why they are forbidden to teach, is, that it is not permitted by their condition. They are subject, and to teach implies the rank of power or authority. Yet it may be thought that there is no great force in this argument; because even prophets and teachers are subject to kings and to other magistrates. I reply, there is no absurdity in the same person commanding and likewise obeying, when viewed in different relations. But this does not apply to the case of woman, who by nature (that is, by the ordinary law of God) is formed to obey; for γυναικοκρατία (the government of women) has always been regarded by all wise persons as a monstrous thing; and, therefore, so to speak, it will be a mingling of heaven and earth, if women usurp the right to teach. Accordingly, he bids them be “quiet,” that is, keep within their own rank. (41) …” – Blessed John Calvin
Source:
https://www.studylight.org/commentaries/cal/1-timothy-2.html
ii) Blessed John Calvin’s Commentary on 1 Corinthians 14:34 – 36
“… Verse 34
It appears that the Church of the Corinthians was infected with this fault too, that the talkativeness of women was allowed a place in the sacred assembly, or rather that the fullest liberty was given to it. Hence he forbids them to speak in public, either for the purpose of teaching or of prophesying. This, however, we must understand as referring to ordinary service, or where there is a Church in a regularly constituted state; for a necessity may occur of such a nature as to require that a woman should speak in public; but Paul has merely in view what is becoming in a duly regulated assembly.
34.Let them be in subjection, as also saith the law. What connection has the object that he has in view with the subjection under which the law places women? “For what is there,” some one will say, “to hinder their being in subjection, and yet at the same time teaching?” I answer, that the office of teaching (877) is a superiority in the Church, and is, consequently, inconsistent with subjection. For how unseemly a thing it were, that one who is under subjection to one of the members, should preside (878) over the entire body! It is therefore an argument from things inconsistent — If the woman is under subjection, she is, consequently, prohibited from authority to teach in public. (879) And unquestionably, (880) wherever even natural propriety has been maintained, women have in all ages been excluded from the public management of affairs. It is the dictate of common sense, that female government is improper and unseemly. Nay more, while originally they had permission given to them at Rome to plead before a court, (881) the effrontery of Caia Afrania (882) led to their being interdicted, even from this. Paul’s reasoning, however, is simple — that authority to teach is not suitable to the station that a woman occupies, because, if she teaches, she presides over all the men, while it becomes her to be under subjection.
Verse 35
35.If they wish to learn any thing. That he may not seem, by this means, to shut out women from opportunities of learning, he desires them, if they are in doubt as to anything, to inquire in private, that they may not stir up any disputation in public. When he says, husbands, he does not prohibit them from consulting the Prophets themselves, if necessary. For all husbands are not competent to give an answer in such a case; but, as he is reasoning here as to external polity, he reckons it sufficient to point out what is unseemly, that the Corinthians may guard against it. In the meantime, it is the part of the prudent reader to consider, that the things of which he here treats are intermediate and indifferent, in which there is nothing unlawful, but what is at variance with propriety and edification.
Verse 36
36Did the word of God come out from you? This is a somewhat sharper reproof, but nothing more than was needful for beating down the haughtiness of the Corinthians. They were, beyond measure, self-complacent. They could not endure that either themselves, or what belonged to them, should be found fault with in anything. He asks, accordingly, whether they are the only Christians in the world; nay, farther, whether they are the first, or are to be the last? “Did the word of God,” says he, “come out from you?” that is, “Did it originate with you?” “Has it ended with you?” that is, “Will it spread no farther?” The design of the admonition is this — that they may not, without having any regard to others, please themselves in their own contrivances or customs. And this is a doctrine of general application; for no Church should be taken up with itself exclusively, to the neglect of others; but on the contrary, they ought all, in their turn, to hold out the right hand to each other, in the way of cherishing mutual fellowship, and accommodating themselves to each other, in so far as a regard to harmony requires. (883)
But here it is asked, whether every Church, according as it has had the precedence of another in the order of time, (884) has it also in its power to bind it to observe its institutions. …” – Blessed John Calvin
Source:
https://www.studylight.org/commentaries/cal/1-corinthians-14.html
Women Ministry in obedience to 1 Timothy 2:12 by Blessed Martin Luther
To quote (his own words):
“… 11. Let a woman learn in silence with all submissiveness. [6.] I believe that Paul is still speaking about public matters. I also want it to refer to the public ministry, which occurs in the public assembly of the church. There a woman must be completely quiet, because she should remain a hearer and not become a teacher. She is not to be the spokesman among the people. She should refrain from teaching, from praying in public. She has the command to speak at home. This passage makes a woman subject. It takes from her all public office and authority. On the other side is the passage in Acts (8:27) about Queen Candace. We read many such examples in sacred literature—that women have been very good at management: Huldah, Deborah, Jael, the wife of the Kenite, who killed Sisera. [7.] Why, then, does Paul say here that he deprives them of the administration of the Word as well as of work? You should solve that argument in this way. Here we properly take “woman” to mean wife, as he reveals from his correlative phrase (v. 12) “to have authority over man,” that is, over her husband. As he calls the husband “man,” so he calls the wife “woman.” Where men and women have been joined together, there the men, not the women, ought to have authority. An exceptional example is the case where they are without husbands, like Huldah and Deborah who had no authority over husbands. Another lived in Abela. [8.] The evangelist Philip had four unmarried daughters, etc. (cf. Acts 21:9). He forbids teaching contrary to a man or to the authority of a man. Where there is a man, there no woman should teach or have authority. Where there is no man, Paul has allowed that they can do this, because it happens by a man’s command. He wants to save the order preserved by the world—that a man be the head of the woman, as 1 Cor. 11:3 tells us. [9.] Where there are men, she should neither teach nor rule. She rules in the home and says: “Be quiet,” but she is not the master. This maxim was spoken against Greek women, who have been and now are more ingenious and clever than those in other countries. The Jews and Arabs do not honor their women in this way. The Turk considers women as beasts. Not so with the Greeks and us. Miriam seemed wise to herself; she rose up against her brother and her “man” (cf. Num. 12). They should be with all submissiveness. Then comes the teaching, and Paul does not entrust the ministry of the Word to her. He considers this the greatest thing that goes on in the church. You must always understand this with the condition that men are present. Paul says this that there may be peace and harmony in the churches when the Word is taught and people pray. There would be a disturbance if some woman wished to argue against the doctrine that is being taught by a man. The method of 1 Cor. 14 has now perished. I could wish it were still in effect, but it causes great strife. Where a man teaches, there is a wellrounded argument against a man. If she wishes to be wise, let her argue with her husband at home.
12. To have authority. That is, she ought not take over for herself the heritage which belongs to a man so that a man says to her: “My lord.” She wants her own wisdom to have priority, that whatever she has said should prevail and whatever the man says should not. We say: Paul is saying with power what is to be said. He is not speaking about real physical domination, but about the authority of the word, that she should be right and have the last word, that in the church her word ought to appear wiser and more learned and thus of greater authority than that of her husband. So also in the home. …” – Blessed Martin Luther, Reformation Founder and the First Champion of the Protestant Faith
Source:
https://www.covenanter.org/reformed/2016/5/25/commentary-on-1-timothy-29-14
Special focus on a quote from above which does “not” allow ministry women leaderships (women being leaders in the secular World is okay and not contradicted in the Bible, please don’t confuse the two):
“… Where THERE IS A MAN, THERE NO WOMAN SHOULD TEACH OR HAVE AUTHORITY. Where there is no man, Paul has allowed that they can do this, because it happens by a man’s command. He wants to save the order preserved by the world—that a man be the head of the woman, as 1 Cor. 11:3 tells us. … Then comes the teaching, and PAUL DOES NOT ENTRUST THE MINISTRY OF THE WORD TO HER. He CONSIDERS THIS THE GREATEST THING THAT GOES ON IN THE CHURCH. You must always understand this with the condition that men are present. Paul says this that there may be peace and harmony in the churches when the Word is taught and people pray. There would be a disturbance if some woman wished to argue against the doctrine that is being taught by a man. The method of 1 Cor. 14 has now perished. I could wish it were still in effect, but it causes great strife. Where a man teaches, there is a wellrounded argument against a man. If she wishes to be wise, let her argue with her husband at home. …” – Blessed Martin Luther
Pre-Trib, Mid-Trib or Post-Trib Rapture?
“… 15For this we say to you by the word of the Lord, that we who are alive and remain until the coming of the Lord will by no means precede those who are [d]asleep. 16For the Lord Himself will descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of an archangel, and with the trumpet of God. And the dead in Christ will rise first. 17Then we who are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And thus we shall always be with the Lord. 18Therefore comfort one another with these words. …” (1 Thessalonians 4:15 – 18, NKJV)
Can you see it? Facts:
i) 1 Thessalonians 4:15 above mentions that the First Resurrection (Revelation 20:4 – 6) happens before the “Rapture” for the living ones happens. Now the First Resurrection clearly includes those who did not receive the mark of the Beast and were beheaded literally implying that it cannot occur before that Final Great Tribulation. Verses:
“… 4And I saw thrones, and they sat on them, and judgment was committed to them. Then I saw the souls of those who had been beheaded for their witness to Jesus and for the word of God, who had not worshiped the beast or his image, and had not received his mark on their foreheads or on their hands. And they lived and reigned with Christ for [a]a thousand years. 5But the rest of the dead did not live again until the thousand years were finished. This is the first resurrection. 6Blessed and holy is he who has part in the first resurrection. Over such the second death has no power, but they shall be priests of God and of Christ, and shall reign with Him a thousand years. …” (Revelation 20:4 – 6, NKJV)
So the Timeline Order is:
i. The Final Great Tribulation of the Antichrist
(Revelation 20:4)
ii. The First Resurrection for dead Christians
(1 Thessalonians 4:15, 16, Revelation 20:4 – 6)
iii. The Rapture for living Christians at that time
(1 Thessalonians 4:17)
Please notice carefully that the “Rapture” cannot happen unless the “First Resurrection” (“dead in Christ Rise First”) happens as 1 Thessalonians 4:15’s phrase below means this:
“… we who are ALIVE and REMAIN until the Coming Of The Lord will by NO MEANS PRECEDE those who are [d]ASLEEP …” (1 Thessalonians 4:15, NKJV)
ii) 1 Thessalonians 4:16 clearly Reveals that this refers to the 7th Last Trumpet as discussed in Point 3) below which doesn’t agree with any Pre-Tribulation timeline.
iii) 1 Thessalonians 4:16 also mentions that the “dead in Christ Rise First” referring to the same “First Resurrection” Prophecy in Revelation 20:4 – 6 which includes those literally beheaded by the antichrist for their faith in Christ hence cannot refer to any Pre-Tribulation escape. If this is a different Resurrection to which occurs before the Final Great Tribulation, then the Revelation 20:4 – 6 Resurrection is no more the “First” Resurrection but at least a “Second” Resurrection which contradicts Holy Scripture Plainly.
iv) 1 Thessalonians 4:17 together with verse 16 clearly Explains 1 Thessalonians 4:15 above where the First Resurrection or “dead in Christ Rise First” ought to occur before the “Rapture” for those still alive to be caught up to meet the Lord in the Clouds. The First Resurrection (Revelation 20:4 – 6) containing some of the dead in Christ who did not receive the mark of the Beast proves that the Rapture happens after the Tribulation.
v) The Coming of Christ will be in the Order of
Heaven —> Cloud —-> Earth
Verses:
“… 9Now when He had spoken these things, while they watched, He was taken up, and a cloud received Him out of their sight. 10And while they looked steadfastly toward heaven as He went up, behold, two men stood by them in white apparel, 11who also said, “Men of Galilee, why do you stand gazing up into heaven? This same Jesus, who was taken up from you into heaven, will so come in like manner as you saw Him go into heaven.” …” (Acts 1:9 – 11, NKJV)
Please notice carefully that the angels in Verses above clearly Speak of Christ Returning in Reverse of the Order they witnessed His Ascension which was
Earth —> Cloud —-> Heaven
Please notice that the Angels only refer to “One” Coming of Christ in Verses above. Here are additional Verses proving this Order:
a) Heaven —> Cloud
“… 11Now I saw heaven opened, and behold, a white horse. And He who sat on him was called Faithful and True, and in righteousness He judges and makes war. 12His eyes were like a flame of fire, and on His head were many crowns. He [e]had a name written that no one knew except Himself. 13He was clothed with a robe dipped in blood, and His name is called The Word of God. 14And the armies in heaven, clothed in [f]fine linen, white and clean, followed Him on white horses. …” (Revelation 19:11 – 14, NKJV)
b) Cloud —> Earth
“… And in that day His feet will stand on the Mount of Olives, Which faces Jerusalem on the east. And the Mount of Olives shall be split in two, From east to west, Making a very large valley; Half of the mountain shall move toward the north And half of it toward the south. …” (Zechariah 14:4, NKJV)
vi) Here’s a Verse which proves that there’s only “One” Second Coming of Christ for His Elect and not two (one secret Vs one public as the Pre-Trib Rapture theory asserts)
“… So Christ was once offered to bear the sins of many; and unto them that look for him shall he appear the second time without sin unto salvation. …” (Hebrews 9:28, KJV)
Conclusion
A good point in image*. There’s “no” Pre-Trib Rapture taught in First Christianity. Here are some earlier posts discussing the details:
1) Here’s a simple “Biblical” logic: If the Rapture occurred before the Final Tribulation, who is the Antichrist “anti” or persecuting then since all the remaining ones are on his camp?
Also, Revelation 20:4 – 6 clearly mentions ‘Priests of God’ who will be chosen from among those who ‘did not receive the mark of the beast & were killed/beheaded during the Antichrist’s Reign itself’ – so is there ‘Christian Salvation’ after the Rapture? If so, this contradicts 1 Thessalonians 4:15 which clearly states that ‘the First Resurrection of the Dead in Christ must happen first’ (1 Thessalonians 4:16) before the Rapture for those Christians who are alive (1 Thessalonians 4:17).
Now, if the ‘dead in Christ who did not receive the mark of the beast & were beheaded’ rising ‘after’ the Great Tribulation in Revelation 20:4 – 6 is ‘another resurrection’ different from the ‘dead in Christ Rise First’ (1 Thessalonians 4:16) which occurs ‘before the Rapture’ (1 Thessalonians 4:15), then Revelation 20:4 – 6 should be called the ‘Second Resurrection’ right? Contradiction again.
Pre-Tribulation Rapture in First Christianity?
https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=10159543696882784&id=651792783
2) Sola Scriptura – No [Pre-Tribulation] Rapture Theory in Christianity
https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=10159455296362784&id=651792783
3) 7th Trumpet Proves Post Tribulation Rapture
https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=10159511577422784&id=651792783
4) Pre-tribulation and mid-tribulation Rapture refuted by One Verse
https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=10159510723492784&id=651792783
*Image Details by the “Reformed Sage”
To quote (their original post):
One of the MAJOR problems with dispensational pre-tribulation eschatology is that after the rapture, you know exactly when Christ will return, down to the second, even though Jesus said this:
Mark 13:32-33
No One Knows That Day or Hour
“But concerning that day or that hour, no one knows, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father. Be on guard, keep awake. For you do not know when the time will come.
Source:
https://www.facebook.com/226286897827738/posts/1248880545568363/
Founders of Protestantism – All Believers in Post Tribulation Rapture
Example Book discussing these quotes and facts in link below (source for image too is the ‘same link’ below):
If “… Martin Luther, John Calvin, Charles Spurgeon, George Whitefield, William Tyndale, John Wesley. …” ALL AGREED on “… Post Tribulation Rapture Doctrine …” just like the earliest Church Leaders all taught likewise as discussed in previous posts, are they wrong and a ‘Puritan Newbie who invented the Pre-Tribulation Doctrine in the 17th Century, right?’
To quote:
“… Modern pretribulationism gained rise in the seventeenth century with the Puritan preachers Increase Mather and Cotton Mather. …”
Source:
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rapture
What’s the biggest Protestant name which taught ‘… Pre-Tribulation Rapture …’ among the founders? I see “none” except for modern preachers.
Logic: If at least one great name of Protestant “Founders” is to be found amongst those of that rank who believed in Pre-Tribulation Rapture, then it has some good chance and vice versa, right? It’s clearly “not” the case with actual Protestant History itself.
Related Post:
https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=10160397602162784&id=651792783
The Other Greats of Protestantism Taught – Post Tribulation Rapture
Here’s an book discussing this from a traditional “Baptist” view as well, to quote (Same Source for image too):
“… The view taught by the Left Behind novels isn’t what Christians believed for hundreds of years. Roger Williams, who founded the first Baptist church in America never saw a post-Rapture seven-year tribulation in the Bible. Neither did Spurgeon, Luther or Calvin. Nor did Jonathan Edwards, John Knox, Tyndale or Wycliffe. The “left-behind” view gained popularity only 100 years ago, but isn’t the historic Protestant approach to Bible prophecy. …”
Source:
Tribulation now, rapture next? Are today’s troubles part of what the Bible foretold?
I repeat the names of “Post-Tribulation Rapture” believers mentioned here who did not believe in any after-Rapture 7 year tribulation as the “Pre-Tribulation Rapture” Doctrine teaches (a well read Protestant should easily recognize these names of actual ‘heroes of faith’ in their own right where they all ‘agreed’ on the “Post Tribulation Rapture Doctrine clearly”):
“… Spurgeon, Luther or Calvin. Nor did Jonathan Edwards, John Knox, Tyndale or Wycliffe …”
Kings of Protestant Theology and Post Tribulation Rapture Example Quotes – Martin Luther, John Calvin, John Wesley and Charles Spurgeon
1) Martin Luther
Martin Luther teaches only ‘one gathering of the elect at the same time which occurs during the First Resurrection of the Dead’
“… Paul writes these words to comfort Christians who were troubled about what would take place at the RESURRECTION OF THE DEAD. Shall all rise together? Shall those LIVING ON THE EARTH at the last day meet Christ before others? These and like thoughts worried them. Here Paul answers them by saying that Christ would take ALL HIS BELIEVERS TO HIMSELF at THE SAME TIME, …” – Blessed Martin Luther, Reformation Founder, First Champion of the Protestant Faith (Commentary on 1 Thessalonians 4)
Source:
https://biblehub.com/sermons/auth/luther/living_and_dead_when_christ_returns.htm
2) John Calvin
John Calvin also believed in the Rapture and the First Resurrection happening at the same time as one event of the Return of Christ only where the Rapture is kind of the death those living undergo when Christ Returns Post-Tribulation. John Calvin clearly implies that the “First Resurrection and Rapture” are the Same event where the First Resurrection occurs first followed by the Rapture. Yes, John Calvin affirms that Rapture is a sudden change replacing death.
“… We who live. This has been said by him with this view — that they might not think that those only would be partakers of the RESURRECTION WHO WOULD BE ALIVE AT THE TIME OF CHRIST’S COMING, and that those would have no part in it who had been previously taken away by death. “The ORDER OF THE RESURRECTION,” says he, “WILL BEGIN WITH THEM: (581) we shall accordingly not rise without them.” From this it appears that the belief of a final resurrection had been, in the minds of some, slight and obscure, and involved in various errors, inasmuch as they imagined that the dead would be deprived of it; for they imagined that eternal life belonged to those alone whom Christ, at his last coming, would find still alive upon the earth. Paul, with the view of remedying these errors, assigns the FIRST PLACE TO THE DEAD, and AFTERWARDS TEACHES THAT THOSE WILL FOLLOW WHO WILL BE AT THAT TIME REMAINING IN THIS LIFE. As to the circumstance, however, that by speaking in the first person he makes himself, as it were, one of the number of those who will live until the last day, he means by this to arouse the Thessalonians to wait for it, nay more, to hold all believers in suspense, that they may not promise themselves some particular time: for, granting that it was by a special revelation that he knew that CHRIST WOULD COME at a SOMEWHAT LATER TIME, (582) it was nevertheless necessary that this doctrine should be delivered to the Church in common, that believers might be prepared at all times … The dead who are in Christ. He again says that the DEAD WHO ARE IN CHRIST, that is, who are included in Christ’s body, will RISE FIRST, that we may know that the hope of life is laid up in heaven for them no less than for the living. … He says that THOSE THAT SURVIVE will be CARRIED UP TOGETHER WITH THEM. As to these, he makes no mention of death: hence it appears as if he meant to say that they would be EXEMPTED FROM DEATH. Here Augustine gives himself much distress, both in the twentieth book on the City of God and in his Answer to Dulcitius, because Paul seems to contradict himself, inasmuch as he says elsewhere, that seed cannot spring up again unless it die. (1 Corinthians 15:36) The solution, however, is easy, inasmuch as a SUDDEN CHANGE WILL BE LIKE DEATH. Ordinary death, it is true, is the separation of the soul from the body; but this does not hinder that the Lord may in a moment destroy this corruptible nature, so as to create it anew by his power, for thus is accomplished what Paul himself teaches must take place — that mortality shall be swallowed up of life. (2 Corinthians 5:4) …” – Blessed John Calvin, The Founder of the Five-Point Calvinism and No.1 most Influential Protestant Theologian of all time (Commentary on 1 Thessalonians 4:15 – 16)
Source:
https://www.studylight.org/commentaries/eng/cal/1-thessalonians-4.html
John Calvin assures that the Post Tribulation Rapture is true as it occurs only after the “scattering” of the church due to tribulation and during Christ’s only One Second Coming at the last/seventh Trumpet, to quote:
“… 52. In a moment This is still of a general nature; that is, it includes all. For in all the change will be sudden and instantaneous, because Christ’s advent will be sudden. And to convey the idea of a moment, he afterwards makes use of the phrase TWINKLING (OR JERK) OF THE EYE, for in the Greek manuscripts there is a twofold, reading — rhopho (jerk,) or rhipho (twinkling.) [131] It matters nothing, however, as to the sense. Paul has selected a movement of the body, that surpasses all others in quickness; for nothing is more rapid than a movement of the eye, though at the same time he has made an allusion to sleep, with which twinkling of the eye is contrasted. [132] .WITH THE LAST TRUMP. Though the repetition of the term might seem to place it beyond a doubt, that the word trumpet is here taken in its proper acceptation, yet I prefer to understand the expression as metaphorical. In 1 Thessalonians 4:16, he connects together the voice of the archangel and the trump of God: As therefore a commander, with the sound of a trumpet, summons his army to battle, so Christ, by his far sounding proclamation, which will be heard throughout the whole world, will summon all the dead … This distinction, therefore, is simply an exposition of the foregoing statement — that ALL WILL NOT DIE, BUT ALL WILL BE CHANGED “Those who have already died,” says he, “will rise again incorruptible.” See what a change there will be upon the dead! “Those,” says he, “WHO WILL BE STILL ALIVE WILL THEMSELVES ALSO BE CHANGED.” You see then as to both. [134] You now then perceive how it is, that change will be common to all, but not sleep. [135]. When he says, WE SHALL BE CHANGED, he includes himself in the number of those, WHO ARE TO LIVE TILL THE ADVENT OF CHRIST. As it was now the last times, (1 John 2:18,) that day (2 Timothy 1:18) was to be looked for by the saints every hour. At the same time, in writing to the Thessalonians, he utters that memorable PREDICTION RESPECTING THE SCATTERING [136] that WOULD TAKE PLACE IN THE CHURCH BEFORE CHRIST’S COMING. (2 Thessalonians 2:3.) …” – Blessed John Calvin, The Founder of the Five-Point Calvinism and No.1 most Influential Protestant Theologian of all time (Commentary on 1 Corinthians 15:52, Point 52)
Source:
https://biblehub.com/commentaries/calvin/1_corinthians/15.htm
3) John Wesley
John Wesley assures that the Post-Tribulation Rapture is the replacement of death for those who are alive at Christ’s Return to join in the First Resurrection:
“… But we shall all — Who do not die, be changed – So that this animal body shall become spiritual. … In a moment — Amazing work of omnipotence! And cannot the same power now change us into saints in a moment? The trumpet shall sound – To awaken all that sleep in the dust of the earth. …” – Blessed John Wesley, Founder of Methodism (Commentary on 1 Corinthians 15:51 – 52)
Source:
https://www.christianity.com/bible/commentary.php?com=wes&b=46&c=15
And
“… By the word of the Lord — By a particular revelation. We who are left — This intimates the fewness of those who will be then alive, compared to the multitude of the dead. Believers of all ages and nations make up, as it were, one body; in consideration of which, the believers of that age might put themselves in the place, and speak in the person, of them who were to live till the coming of the Lord. Not that St. Paul hereby asserted (though some seem to have imagined so) that the day of the Lord was at hand. …” – Blessed John Wesley, Founder of Methodism (Commentary on 1 Thessalonians 4:15)
Source:
https://www.christianity.com/bible/commentary.php?com=wes&b=52&c=4
4) Charles Spurgeon
Spurgeon sees the Rapture likewise as occuring during the Resurrection of the dead meant for Christians where the dead in Christ Rise First during Christ’s Second Coming. Yes there’s no Christian who is left behind who can be saved after that to join the number of Elect as Spurgeon implies below, to quote:
“… You have a glorious hope concerning those who have FALLEN ASLEEP IN CHRIST, you believe that they are still live, and that, by-and-by, their bodies WILL RISE AGAIN. … We shall have no preference over the saints who are sleeping in Jesus, WE SHALL NOT GO BEFORE THEM, we shall be on a blessed equality with them. … Whatever ideas we have concerning the DETAILS OF CHRIST’S COMING, this summing up of the whole matter is unutterably precious to us: “so shall we ever be with the Lord.” There is no separating Christ and his people. If you are one with him, he will NOT BE IN HEAVEN AND LEAVE YOU BEHIND; nor will he be glorified in the presence of his Father without making you to be partakers of the glory. What joy there is for us in this blessed truth! …” – Blessed Charles Spurgeon, the Prince of Preachers in the Protestant Camp (Commentary on 1 Thessalonians 4)
Source:
https://www.studylight.org/commentaries/eng/spe/1-thessalonians-4.html
And
“… We shall not all die, some will be alive when Christ comes to this earth again; “but we shall all be changed,” if not by the process of death and resurrection, yet by some other means. … Somehow or other, such a change as this must take place before we can enter heaven, for “flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God.” …” – Blessed Charles Spurgeon, the Prince of Preachers in the Protestant Camp (Commentary on 1 Corinthians 15:51 – 52)
Source:
https://www.studylight.org/commentaries/eng/spe/1-corinthians-15.html
Apostolic Faith Mystery
The Best Faith is one that believes without Signs and Wonders.
Verses (Christ’s Own Most Blessed Words):
“… 48Then Jesus said to him, “Unless you people see signs and wonders, you will by no means believe.” …” (John 4:48, NKJV)
“… A wicked and adulterous generation seeks after a sign, and no sign shall be given to it except the sign of the prophet Jonah.” …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 16:4, NKJV)
Conclusion
The Perfect Will of God is that we believe in Him even with “no” miracles/signs nor wonders nor any personal needs being fulfilled first, Verse (Christ’s Own Most Blessed Words again):
“… 26Jesus answered them and said, “Most assuredly, I say to you, you seek Me, not because you saw the signs, but because you ate of the loaves and were filled. … 29Jesus answered and said to them, “This is the work of God, that you believe in Him whom He sent.” …” (John 6:26, 29, NKJV)
Yes, the best faith which the Apostles had was one that asked “nothing” for themselves (even when Christ Gave them a chance to ask for anything in Verses next) but they just kept believing His Words whilst they asked God for Miracles for others, Verses:
“… 23“And in that day you will ask Me nothing. Most assuredly, I say to you, whatever you ask the Father in My name He will give you. 24Until now you have ASKED NOTHING in My name. Ask, and you will receive, that your joy may be full. 25“These things I have spoken to you in figurative language; but the time is coming when I will no longer speak to you in figurative language, but I will tell you plainly about the Father. … 29His disciples said to Him, “See, now You are SPEAKING PLAINLY, and using no figure of speech! 30Now we are sure that You know all things, and have no need that anyone should question You. By this WE BELIEVE that You came forth from God.” …” (John 16:23 – 25, 29 – 30, NKJV)
Please notice carefully that each of the “Apostle’s Miracles” benefitted others only and they never abused the Power of God to get any personal things for them but remained in “Renunciation” (Luke 14:33), example Verses:
“… 12When I was with you, I certainly gave you PROOF that I am an APOSTLE. For I patiently did many SIGNS and WONDERS and MIRACLES among you. 13The only thing I failed to do, which I do in the other churches, was to become a FINANCIAL BURDEN to you. Please FORGIVE ME for this WRONG! 14Now I am coming to you for the third time, and I WILL NOT BE A BURDEN TO YOU. I DON’T WANT WHAT YOU HAVE—I WANT YOU. After all, children don’t provide for their parents. Rather, parents provide for their children. 15I will gladly spend myself and all I have for you, even though it seems that the more I love you, the less you love me. …” – Blessed St. Paul the Great Apostle of Christ (2 Corinthians 12:12 – 15, NLT)
Please notice carefully that the ‘sign of an apostle’ in Verses above includes one who asks for “Forgiveness” because he recognizes that it is “wrong” each time he had to be a “financial burden” to a Church instead of him providing for himself as Apostle St. Paul succeeded in other times as per Verses below:
“… 33I have coveted no one’s silver or gold or apparel. 34Yes, you yourselves know that these hands have provided for my necessities, and for those who were with me. 35I have shown you in every way, by laboring like this, that you must support the weak. And remember the words of the Lord Jesus, that He said, ‘It is MORE BLESSED to GIVE than to RECEIVE.’ …” Blessed St. Paul the Great Apostle of Christ (Acts 20:32 – 35, NKJV)
If that’s what it means to have an Apostolic Faith financially, then we surely have failed miserably, right?
Are New Testament Written Traditions Optional? – Keeping Away from some Christians
Bible Verses:
“… 6But we command you, brethren, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that you withdraw from every brother who walks disorderly and not according to the tradition which [a]he received from us. 7For you yourselves know how you ought to follow us, for we were not disorderly among you; 8nor did we eat anyone’s bread [b]free of charge, but worked with labor and toil night and day, that we might not be a burden to any of you, 9not because we do not have authority, but to make ourselves an example of how you should follow us. 10For even when we were with you, we commanded you this: If anyone will not work, neither shall he eat. 11For we hear that there are some who walk among you in a disorderly manner, not working at all, but are busybodies. 12Now those who are such we command and [c]exhort through our Lord Jesus Christ that they work in quietness and eat their own bread. 13But as for you, brethren, do not grow weary in doing good. 14And if anyone does not obey our word in this [d]epistle, note that person and do not keep company with him, that he may be ashamed. 15Yet do not count him as an enemy, but [e]admonish him as a brother. …” (2 Thessalonians 3:6 – 15, NKJV)
Points from the above:
1) It’s a Command to keep away from Christians who do NOT FOLLOW NEW TESTAMENT TRADITIONS (e.g. 1 Corinthians 11:1 – 2, 1 Corinthians 4:14 – 17, 1 Corinthians 14:37 etc.)
“… 6But we COMMAND you, brethren, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that you WITHDRAW from every brother who walks disorderly and NOT ACCORDING TO THE TRADITION which [a]he received from us. …” (2 Thessalonians 3:6)
2) Every true Christian who is capable of working must work and support himself
“… 8nor did we eat anyone’s bread [b]free of charge, but worked with labor and toil night and day, that we might not be a burden to any of you, 9not because we do not have authority, but to make ourselves an example of how you should follow us. …” (2 Thessalonians 3:8 – 9 )
3) There is no Biblical logic of helping a Christian who refuses to work to eat (sounds serious doesn’t it?)
“… 10For even when we were with you, we COMMANDED you this: If ANYONE WILL NOT WORK, NEITHER SHALL HE EAT. …” (2 Thessalonians 3:10)
4) Among the walking orderly aspect highlighted here involves NOT keeping with those Christians who are NOT interested in Good Works nor in Biblical Traditions
“… 13But as for you, brethren, DO NOT GROW WEARY in DOING GOOD. 14And if anyone does NOT OBEY OUR WORD IN THIS [D]EPISTLE, note that person and do NOT KEEP COMPANY with him, that he may be ashamed. …” (2 Thessalonians 3:13 – 14)
Does the Context of “Written and Unwritten Traditions” apply to the Verses in 2 Thessalonians earlier? Yes, Verse:
“… Therefore, brethren, STAND FAST and HOLD the TRADITIONS which you were TAUGHT, whether by WORD or our EPISTLE. …” (2 Thessalonians 2:15, NKJV)
5) Give them chance perhaps they might repent
“… 15Yet do not count him as an enemy, but [e]admonish him as a brother. …” (2 Thessalonians 3:15)
Conclusion
1. Please be particularly careful of those Christian denominations which Speak of traditions “beyond what is Written” especially changing what’s written as Apostle Paul contrasts the keeping of the Written New Testament Traditions
“… that you may learn in us NOT TO THINK BEYOND WHAT IS WRITTEN, that none of you may be [c]puffed up on behalf of one against the other. … 14I do not write these things to shame you, but as my beloved children I warn you. 15For though you might have ten thousand instructors in Christ, yet you do not have many fathers; for in Christ Jesus I have begotten you through the gospel. 16Therefore I URGE YOU, IMITATE ME. 17For this reason I have sent Timothy to you, who is my beloved and faithful son in the Lord, who will remind you of my ways in Christ, as I TEACH EVERYWHERE IN EVERY CHURCH. …” (1 Corinthians 4:4, 14 – 17, NKJV)
Example in Context of what is Written in 1 Corinthians letter and we should not try to practice new things “beyond what is Written” in the context of “Biblical Traditions” (as the LORD’S COMMANDS):
“… 1 IMITATE ME, just as I also IMITATE CHRIST. 2Now I PRAISE YOU, brethren, that you remember me in all things and KEEP THE TRADITIONS just as I delivered them to you. … 16But if anyone seems to be contentious, we have no such custom, nor do the churches of God. … ” (1 Corinthians 11:1 – 2, 11:16, NKJV)
And
“… 33For God is not a God of disorder but of peace—as in all the congregations of the Lord’s people …
36Or did the word of God originate with you? Or are you the only people it has reached? 37If anyone thinks they are a PROPHET or otherwise GIFTED BY THE SPIRIT, let them ACKNOWLEDGE that WHAT I AM WRITING to you is the LORD’S COMMAND. 38But if anyone IGNORES THIS, THEY WILL THEMSELVES BE IGNORED. …” (1 Corinthians 14:33, 36 – 38, NIV)
2. The Reward
“… And also if anyone competes in athletics, he is NOT CROWNED unless HE COMPETES ACCORDING TO THE RULES. …” (2 Timothy 2:5, NKJV)
Zeal for God only works best with right knowledge as God doesn’t look at zeal only as some err, Verse:
“… For I bear them witness that they have a ZEAL FOR GOD, but NOT ACCORDING TO KNOWLEDGE. …” (Romans 10:2, NKJV)
3. Safest Route of the ‘Narrow Path’ is to follow ‘what is Written only’ and ‘not beyond that’
“… 14Because narrow is the gate and [d]difficult is the way which leads to life, and there are few who find it. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 7:14, NKJV)
Please remember that the 5 Foolish Virgins were “Virgins” signifying “holiness” but were still foolish (Matthew 25:1 – 13) and didn’t make it to the First Resurrection due to ‘Lawlesness’ (disorderly, Matthew 7:20 – 23).
Always Preach and Try our best to keep obeying what is “WRITTEN in NEW TESTAMENT VERSES/TRADITIONS” and please don’t easily follow modern teachings which deviate from it & even teach against it telling that it doesn’t apply today as this Verse already forewarned:
“… that you may learn in us NOT TO THINK BEYOND WHAT IS WRITTEN, …” (1 Corinthians 4:4, NKJV)
Please don’t be deceived
Prosperity Gospel and Polygamy are both Sin in the Torah if you are a King
Bible Verses:
“… 14“When you come to the land which the Lord your God is giving you, and possess it and dwell in it, and say, ‘I will set a king over me like all the nations that are around me,’ 15you shall SURELY SET A KING over you whom the Lord your God chooses; one from among your brethren you shall set as king over you; you may not set a foreigner over you, who is not your brother. 16But he shall not multiply horses for himself, nor cause the people to return to Egypt to multiply horses, for the Lord has said to you, ‘You shall not return that way again.’ 17Neither shall he multiply wives for himself, lest his heart turn away; NOR SHALL HE GREATLY MULTIPLY SILVER AND GOLD FOR HIMSELF. …” (Deuteronomy 17:14 – 17, NKJV)
Please notice carefully that the Verses above relate to the Context of a “KING” in the “Promised Land” (Spiritually Canaan now) and where he cannot have “Abundant Prosperity as the Prosperity Gospel misleads” as the phrase “… NOR SHALL HE GREATLY MULTIPLY SILVER AND GOLD FOR HIMSELF. …” means.
Yes, all Christians are to be kings and priests in His Kingdom if they participate in the First Resurrection (Revelation 20:4 – 6) as verses below prove:
“… and has made us kings and priests to His God and Father, to Him be glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen …” (Revelation 1:6, NKJV)
That’s why in the New Testament, God Enforces these elements strictly as Following the KING of kings, Lord Jesus Christ, Verses:
“… So is he who lays up treasure for himself, and is not rich toward God. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 12:21, NKJV)
It’s a sin to do that lifestyle in these “last days” now:
“… Your gold and silver are corroded, and their corrosion will be a witness against you and will eat your flesh like fire. You have heaped up treasure in the last days. …” (James 5:3, NKJV)
In the “times past”, it was allowed just like the rich Jacob also had polygamy but in New Testament these are not allowed:
“… Truly, these times of ignorance God overlooked, but now commands all men everywhere to repent, …” (Acts 17:30, NKJV)
Polygamy disallowed in New Testament, Verse:
“… Nevertheless, because of sexual immorality, let each man have his own wife, and let each woman have her own husband. …” (1 Corinthians 7:2, NKJV)
“… So likewise, whoever of you does not forsake all that he has cannot be My disciple. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 14:33, NKJV)
Conclusion
That’s why Christ Commanded His “Perfect” kings this Path Voluntarily in terms of monetary command agreeing to the Torah/Law’s Perfection in this area as Deuteronomy 17:17 proves so clearly:
“… 21Jesus said to him, “IF you want to be PERFECT, go, SELL what YOU HAVE and GIVE to the POOR, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, FOLLOW ME.” 22But when the young man heard that saying, he went away SORROWFUL, for he had GREAT POSSESSIONS.23Then Jesus said to His disciples, “Assuredly, I say to you that it is HARD for a RICH MAN TO ENTER THE KINGDOM OF HEAVEN. 24And AGAIN I say to you, it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God. …” (Matthew 19:21 – 24, NKJV)
This is something I can never do a bit of it but fascinates me most as His Apostles (Matthew 19:27 – 30) and the leaders of First Christianity (e.g. church fathers) did magnificently by God’s Grace.
Since Christ Fulfills all Law, so He Fulfills this Part of being a Penniless King as per the Torah/Law in Deuteronomy 17:17 Perfectly.
Here’s a Popular fallacy: Someone might say, ‘… Since Christ has Fulfilled it, I need not fulfill it …’. Consider the Equivalent statement say for the Law on Adultery/Murder as follows: ‘… Since Christ has Fulfilled the Law/Torah by not Committing Adultery nor murder, so I can commit both adultery and murder .. ‘. Can you see the absurdity in this argument contradicting say 1 Corinthians 6:9 – 10? So likewise is His Command of Perfection for His Disciples to Renounce their Possessions (Luke 14:33) to give to charity (Luke 12:30 – 34) and the poor (Matthew 19:21) is to be done by the “Hundredfold” ones (Matthew
19:27 – 30) but hard for the rich ones (Matthew 19:23 – 24) where the rest gain the “thirty or sixty fold inheritance accordingly” (Comparing Matthew 13:8 with Matthew 19:27 – 30 where the word “Hundredfold” is found in Matthew 19:29) as according to this ‘relative measure’ one become “first or last” in His Kingdom, to Quote:
“… But others fell on GOOD GROUND and yielded a crop: some a HUNDREDFOLD, some SIXTY, some THIRTY. …” – The KING of kings, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 13:8, NKJV)
“… 27Then Peter answered and said to Him, “See, we have LEFT ALL and FOLLOWED YOU. Therefore what shall we have?” 28So Jesus said to them, “Assuredly I say to you, that in the REGENERATION, when the Son of Man sits on the throne of His glory, you who have followed Me will also sit on twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel. 29And EVERYONE who has LEFT HOUSES or brothers or sisters or father or mother or wife or children or LANDS, for MY NAME’S SAKE, shall RECEIVE a HUNDREDFOLD, and INHERIT ETERNAL LIFE. 30But MANY who are FIRST will be LAST, and the LAST FIRST. …” (Matthew 19:27 – 30, NKJV)
Please notice the words ‘leave HOUSES or LANDS’ in Verses above which proves the monetary and physical Doctrine of Renunciation of Possessions as part of the HUNDREDFOLD Good Soils crop and not hoarding in abundant prosperity and enjoying life as the Prosperity Gospel clearly Speaks against Christ’s (the Real King’s) Most Blessed Words above as His Command to whoever wishes to be His Disciple.
P/S: The Septuagint reads the same for the Torah/Law on this
“… 17And he shall not multiply to himself wives, lest his heart turn away; and he shall not greatly multiply to himself silver and gold. …” (Deuteronomy 17:17, Brenton Septuagint Translation, LXX)
Source:
https://biblehub.com/sep/deuteronomy/17.htm
Question
Deut 17 17 only speaks about kings not having many wives. But I do believe that polygamy was not a desire of God. But without it, would there even be 12 tribes of Israel?
Reply
Yes there would be the 12 tribes of Israel as God would have created it with monogamy. This question is equivalent to asking if king David did not commit adultery and murder, would there be the book of Proverbs, Ecclesiastes and Song of Songs written by king Solomon who was born from this unlawful wedding? So just because God forgave and allowed king Solomon to be born, the sinful acts that led to that event is not justified. Please notice that God punished King David for that by taking away that firstborn of adultery & murder which proves that it’s not God’s Will. Though it’s not His Will, He allowed king Solomon to be born out of that Union later by His Mercy and Forgiveness (but let’s not tempt God by trying to sin likewise as no one can Trick God). The end does not justify the means. So equivalently the sinful acts of such kings and rulers is still sin and in the New Testament, we are to observe stricter aspects in these areas as New Testament Verses especially from Christ prove which Acts 17:30 explains in times past, God overlooked such ignorance.
Christ’s Own Words regarding Forbidden Over Accumulating Earthly Wealth for Prosperity
One cannot have both. Plenty of New Testament Verses Testify to this especially Christ’s Own Most Blessed Words, Example:
“… So is he who lays up treasure for himself, and is not rich toward God. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 12:21, NKJV)
It’s a sin to do that lifestyle in these “last days” now:
“… Your gold and silver are corroded, and their corrosion will be a witness against you and will eat your flesh like fire. You have heaped up treasure in the last days. …” (James 5:3, NKJV)
In the “times past”, it was allowed just like the rich Jacob also had polygamy but in New Testament these are not allowed:
“… Truly, these times of ignorance God overlooked, but now commands all men everywhere to repent, …” (Acts 17:30, NKJV)
Polygamy disallowed in New Testament, Verse:
“… Nevertheless, because of sexual immorality, let each man have his own wife, and let each woman have her own husband. …” (1 Corinthians 7:2, NKJV)
Polygamy is only allowed in the New Testament if the Person prior to becoming a believer already married more than one wife (no one can trick God):
“… 20Let each one remain in the same calling in which he was called. … 24Brethren, let each one remain with God in that state in which he was called. …” (1 Corinthians 7:20, 24, NKJV)
However, a person with polygamy cannot be a “pastor or a spiritual leadership position” as such must have had only “one wife”, Verses:
“… 2A BISHOP then must be blameless, THE HUSBAND OF ONE WIFE, temperate, sober-minded, of good behavior, hospitable, able to teach; … 12Let DEACONS be the HUSBANDS OF ONE WIFE, ruling their children and their own houses well. …” (1 Timothy 3:2, 12, NKJV)
Universalism or Eternal Hell is not the Blasphemy of the Most Blessed Holy Spirit even if wrong – A look into the most Dangerous Protestant Reformation Theological Disagreement
1) Background History – Martin Luther Vs Ulrich Zwingli and John Calvin (a lot of protestants don’t know how serious their fight really was)
Who are they? Each are key Founders of the Protestant Reformation, Pastors, Missionaries and Theologians in their own right with plenty of converts today among protestants believing the Theological writing of either one of them without realising it as their interpretations are chosen by protestant denominations and churches via their leaders/pastors.
It was not some small dispute as some protestants misread history as even when Zwingli died, Luther had “no” Mercy on him and implied that Zwingli is a heretic in strong words, Example Quote:
“… In Tabletalk, Luther is recorded saying: “They say that Zwingli recently died thus; if his error had prevailed, we would have perished, and our church with us. It was a judgment of God. That was always a proud people. The others, the papists, will probably also be dealt with by our Lord God.” …” (Luther Works Tabletalk No. 94: God’s Punishment of the Godless (Early November 1531)
Source:
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Huldrych_Zwingli
2) If Zwingli was right on any of his Theological Points, did Martin Luther then commit the Blasphemy of the Holy Spirit?
Example Quotes:
“… 2. Luther and Lutherans on Zwingli and His Followers
“I will not read the works of these people, because they are out of the Church, and are not only damned themselves, but draw many miserable creatures after them.” (113;v.1:466)
“Zwingli was an offspring of hell, an associate of Arius (13), a man who did not deserve to be prayed for . . .” (113;v.1:466)
“Zwingli was greedy of honour . . . he had learnt nothing from me . . . Oecolampadius thought himself too learned to listen to me or to learn from me.” (51;v.4:309/14)
“Zwinglians . . . are fighting against God and the sacraments as the most inveterate enemies of the Divine Word.” (111;v.5:220-21/15)
“Heretics who had broken away . . . ministers of Satan, against whom no exercise of severity, however great, would be excessive.” (50:286)
“It would be better to announce eternal damnation than salvation after the style of Zwingli or Oecolampadius.” (46:85)
Luther rejoiced at the news of Zwingli’s death on the battlefield in 1531, and said that he had met “an assassin’s end” (46:86). And when Zwingli’s associate Oecolampadius shortly followed him to the grave, Luther concluded that “the devil’s blows have killed him.” (46:86)
“It is well that Zwingli . . . lies dead on the battlefield . . . Oh, what a triumph this is . . . How well God knows his business.” (45:139)
“Zwingli is dead and damned, having desired like a thief and a rebel, to compel others to follow his error.” (113; v.1:466)
The Lutherans proclaimed in full synod:
“The Zwinglians . . . we do not even grant to them a place in the church, far from recognizing as brethren, a set of people, whom we see agitated by the spirit of lying, and uttering blasphemies against the Son of Man.” (113;v.1:466)
The Zwinglians believed that the Eucharist was wholly symbolic (probably the majority position of Protestants today). Hence, whoever believes the same would have had the foregoing said about them by Dr. Luther, who firmly held to Consubstantiation, i.e., the actual Body and Blood of Christ is present in the communion along with the bread and wine. …”
Source:
http://www.catholicapologetics.info/apologetics/protestantism/protin.htm#II.%20PROTESTANT%20DIVISIONS%20AND%20MUTUAL%20ANIMOSITIES
3) If Luther was right on any of his Theological Points, did Zwingli then commit the Blasphemy of the Holy Spirit?
Example Quotes:
“… 3. Zwingli and His Cohorts on Luther
Zwingli, not to be outdone, returned the compliment:
“The devil has made himself master of Luther, to such a degree, as to make one believe he wishes to gain entire possession of him.” (113;v.1:463)
“To see him in the midst of his followers, you would believe him to be possessed by a phalanx of devils.” (113;v.1:464)
“We do you no injustice when we reproach and condemn you as a worse betrayer and denier of Christ than the ancient heretic Marcion (16).” (50:288)
Oecolampadius was also not without a retort:
“He is puffed up with pride and arrogance, and seduced by Satan.” (113;v.1:463)
Zwingli’s Church of Zurich wrote of Luther:
“He will not and can not associate himself with those who confess Christ . . . He wrote all his works by the impulse and the dictation of the devil.” (113;v.1:464)
…”
Source:
http://www.catholicapologetics.info/apologetics/protestantism/protin.htm#II.%20PROTESTANT%20DIVISIONS%20AND%20MUTUAL%20ANIMOSITIES
4) If John Calvin was right on any of his Theological Points, did Martin Luther then commit the Blasphemy of the Holy Spirit?
Example Quotes:
“… 5. Luther on Calvin and Oecolampadius
“Oecolampadius, Calvin . . . and the other heretics have in-deviled, through-deviled, over-deviled, corrupt hearts and lying mouths.” (122:448/20) …”
Source:
http://www.catholicapologetics.info/apologetics/protestantism/protin.htm#II.%20PROTESTANT%20DIVISIONS%20AND%20MUTUAL%20ANIMOSITIES
Note: Most Protestant Denominations today believe in some form of “Calvinism” which originated from “John Calvin” referred to as a heretic by Martin Luther himself.
5) If Luther was right on any of his Theological Points, did John Calvin then commit the Blasphemy of the Holy Spirit?
Example Quotes:
“… 6. Calvin on Luther and Lutherans
“What to think of Luther I know not . . . with his firmness there is mixed up a good deal of obstinacy . . . Nothing can be safe as long as that rage for contention shall agitate us . . . Luther . . . will never be able to join along with us in . . . the pure truth of God. For he has sinned against it not only from vainglory . . . but also from ignorance and the grossest extravagance. For what absurdities he pawned upon us . . . when he said the bread is the very body! . . . a very foul error. What can I say of the partisans of that cause? Do they not romance more wildly than Marcion respecting the body of Christ? . . . Wherefore if you have an influence or authority over Martin, use it . . . that he himself submit to the truth which he is now manifestly attacking . . . Contrive that Luther . . . cease to bear himself so imperiously.” (126:46-8/21)
“Luther had done nothing to any purpose . . . people ought not to let themselves be duped by following his steps and being half-papist; it is much better to build a church entirely afresh.” (113;v.1:465)
“I am carefully on the watch that Lutheranism gain no ground, nor be introduced into France. The best means . . . for checking the evil would be that the confession written by me . . . should be published.” (126:76/22) …”
Source:
http://www.catholicapologetics.info/apologetics/protestantism/protin.htm#II.%20PROTESTANT%20DIVISIONS%20AND%20MUTUAL%20ANIMOSITIES
The Book Sources Quoted in link above are from “non-Roman Catholic Sources” below hence it may “not” be biased:
45. Hughes, Philip, A Popular History of the Reformation, Garden City, NY: Doubleday Image, 1957.
46. Daniel-Rops, Henri, The Protestant Reformation, vol.2, tr. Audrey Butler, Garden City, NY: Doubleday Image, 1961.
50. O’Hare, Patrick F., The Facts About Luther, Rockford, IL: TAN Books, rev. ed., 1987 (orig. Cincinnati, 1916).
51. Grisar, Hartmann, Luther, tr. E.M. Lamond, ed. Luigi Cappadelta, 6 vols., London: Kegan Paul, Trench, Trubner & Co., 1917.
111. Janssen, Johannes, History of the German People From the Close of the Middle Ages, 16 vols., tr. A.M. Christie, St. Louis: B. Herder, 1910 (orig. 1891).
122. Durant, Will, The Reformation, {vol. 6 of 10-vol. The Story of Civilization, 1967}, NY: Simon & Schuster, 1957.
113. Spalding, Martin J. {Archbishop of Baltimore}, The History of the Protestant Reformation, 2 vols., Baltimore: John Murphy, 1876.
126. Dillenberger, John, ed., John Calvin: Selections From His Writings, Garden City, NY: Doubleday Anchor, 1971.*
Conclusion
The Bible Verses below clearly point what is the definition of the Blasphemy of the Holy Spirit which is ‘commenting on a spirit inside a person wrongly’ as the Pharisees did toward Christ:
“… 28“Assuredly, I say to you, all sins will be forgiven the sons of men, and whatever blasphemies they may utter; 29but he who blasphemes against the Holy Spirit never has forgiveness, but is subject to eternal* condemnation”— 30because they said, “He has an unclean spirit.” …” (Mark 3:28 – 30, NKJV)
*Eternal (or possibly age-during as the literal meaning of Aeonian means).
If they have commented on the “spirit” inside each other, unless God has Mercy, they risk committing the Blasphemy of the Holy Spirit if their theological opponent was right. So, my point is please do “not” follow these ways and take such risks. You can disagree theologically as all these great theologians have done but “no” point in judging anybody to Hell because the measure we judge will be meted out bank for our theological errors likewise then as Christ Warned below:
“… 1“Judge[a] not, that you be not judged. 2For with what [b]judgment you judge, you will be judged; and with the measure you use, it will be measured back to you. …” (Matthew 7:1 – 2, NKJV)
If we do “not” guard our tongue in this, the “religion” we practice itself may fail as this Bible Verse warns:
“… 26If anyone [e]among you thinks he is religious, and does not bridle his tongue but deceives his own heart, this one’s religion is useless. …” (James 1:26, NKJV)
In the next Verse, we see the “religion” that actually matters which is as follows:
“… 27Pure and undefiled religion before God and the Father is this: to visit orphans and widows in their trouble, and to keep oneself unspotted from the world. …” (James 1:27, NKJV)
“… 31“Therefore I say to you, EVERY SIN AND BLASPHEMY WILL BE FORGIVEN MEN, but the blasphemy against the Spirit will not be forgiven men. 32Anyone who speaks a word against the Son of Man, it will be forgiven him; but WHOEVER SPEAKS AGAINST the HOLY SPIRIT, it will NOT BE FORGIVEN him, EITHER IN THIS AGE OR IN THE AGE TO COME. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 12:31 – 32, NKJV)
Christ Centered Universalism is “possible” in these set of Verses itself by the phrase “… EVERY SIN AND BLASPHEMY WILL BE FORGIVEN MEN …” except for those committing the Blasphemy of the Holy Spirit are not forgiven for this age/Aeon/Olam (call it Aeon1) or the next one (Aeon2). But there’s at least one age to come after that because Ephesians 2:7 if taken literally points to the existence of at least Aeon3 in the phrase “ages/Aeons to come” (plural-Aeons, Aeon2, Aeon3 at least) where if God Decides He Can Forgive in Aeon 3 onward as the Context for Ephesians 2:7 itself is “showing even more kindness”:
“… that in the AGES TO COME He might show the exceeding riches of His grace in His kindness toward us in Christ Jesus. …” (Ephesians 2:7, NKJV)
If God doesn’t want to forgive eternally why not say “unforgiven for all ages/Aeons” which is not written but Christ particularly mentions only two ages/Aeons of unforgiveness (namely, Aeon 1 & Aeon 2 only, implying a time-bound unforgiveness) where all other sins (except this Blasphemy) seems to be implied to be forgiven anywhere in Aeon1 or Aeon 2 possibly post-judgment. Only God Knows as we can speculate but He Alone Decides.
The First Christianity Writing of the Didache warns that even if you are 100% confident that the other Christian is wrong theologically, please do NOT comment on the “spirit inside a person” because if by that little chance that person was right and Spoke by the Most Blessed Holy Spirit of God, you may have committed the “Unpardonable Blasphemy of the Holy Spirit Sin” (Verses in image too), to quote:
“… If he asks for money, he is a false prophet. DO NOT TEST or EVALUATE ANY PROPHET SPEAKING in the SPIRIT – THIS IS THE ONE UNFORGIVABLE SIN. But not every one that speaks in the Spirit is a prophet, only those who live in the way of the Lord. Thus it is by their conduct that you can tell false prophets from true. Similarly, no prophet shall eat while he is in the Spirit; if he does, he is a false prophet. Even if a prophet teaches the truth, if he does not do what he teaches, is a false prophet. However, if a prophet that has been approved and found true, and lives out the cosmic mystery of the Church, does not teach you to do all that he does himself, you should not judge such a prophet. His judgment must be left to God, for the prophets in the past also did such things. IF ANYONE SAYS IN THE SPIRIT, “GIVE ME SILVER”, OR ASKS FOR ANYTHING ELSE, DO NOT LISTEN TO HIM. But IF HE TELLS YOU TO GIVE TO OTHERS THAT ARE IN WANT, LET NO ONE JUDGE HIM. …” – The Didache, Teaching of the Lord through His Twelve Apostles (before 300AD)
Source:
https://christianhistoryinstitute.org/study/module/didache
Please both that “any” Preaching of Giving to the Poor cannot be judged as the Didache Teaches above as the phrase ‘… But IF HE TELLS YOU TO GIVE TO OTHERS THAT ARE IN WANT, LET NO ONE JUDGE HIM. …’.
Here’s how I view it in today’s context: I do “not” dare claim anything I say is from the Most Blessed Holy Spirit of God. I know that the Holy Scripture in the Bible is from the Holy Spirit of God. I don’t judge Christians who often claim that “… The Holy Spirit told me …” but I neither endorse nor disapprove them. I keep an open mind. Why? As the First Christianity Writing of the Didache advised likewise, if I wrongly comment either way, I could be Committing the Blasphemy or lie to the Holy Spirit of God. So to avoid it, I keep away from them as such practices is “not” necessary in the Highest Agape Way described in 1 Corinthians 13 which is discussed in post in link below:
https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=10160422317937784&id=651792783
If such persons claim that the Holy Spirit Spoke to them turns out to be true they will be justified but if “not” even for one case, they could risk themselves to have committed this Unpardonable Sin, right? I am not sure and so let God Decide but I am not taking any such risks. Likewise, regarding Doctrines that I am not sure 100% be it eternal hell vs Christ Centered Universalism, I do “not” need to commit any Blasphemy of the Holy Spirit but just need to state it as possibilities as Salvation does “not” depend on believing either in any Bible Verse. God Will understand if we are honestly saying “don’t know” instead of claiming to know 100% by His Holy Spirit in which case one better be right 100% as I don’t see any room for error if the Most Blessed Holy Spirit of God is quoted.
More related discussion in Post below:
https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=10160060717707784&id=651792783
Everything is God’s – God’s Will in Money is Charity
“… 14“For the kingdom of heaven is like a man traveling to a far country, who called his own servants and DELIVERED HIS GOODS TO THEM. 15And to one he gave five talents, to another two, and to another one, to each according to his own ability; and immediately he went on a journey. …” (Matthew 25:14 – 15, NKJV)
Those who are Unprofitable will be Judged:
“… 24“Then he who had received the one talent came and said, ‘Lord, I knew you to be a hard man, reaping where you have not sown, and gathering where you have not scattered seed. 25And I was afraid, and went and hid your talent in the ground. Look, there you have what is yours.’ 26“But his lord answered and said to him, ‘You wicked and lazy servant, you knew that I reap where I have not sown, and gather where I have not scattered seed. 27So you ought to have deposited my money with the bankers, and at my coming I would have received back my own with interest. 28So take the talent from him, and give it to him who has ten talents.
29‘For to everyone who has, more will be given, and he will have abundance; but from him who does not have, even what he has will be taken away. 30And cast the unprofitable servant into the outer darkness. There will be weeping and gnashing of teeth. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 25:24 – 30, NKJV)
Conclusion – What’s God’s Will for His Money which He Gives Christians? “Give to Charity” as His Own Most Blessed Words reveal below:
“… 31“But SEEK HIS KINGDOM, and THESE THINGS will be ADDED TO YOU. 32“Do not be afraid, little flock, for your Father has chosen gladly to give you the kingdom. 33“SELL YOUR POSSESSIONS and GIVE TO CHARITY; make yourselves money belts which do not wear out, an unfailing treasure in heaven, where no thief comes near nor moth destroys. 34“For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. 35“Be dressed in readiness, and KEEP YOUR LAMPS LIT. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 12:31 – 35, NASB)
Only those who do the “Will of God” make it to the First Resurrection (Matthew 7:18 – 23). So may God have Mercy on us to help us do the little we can to fulfil His Will in this important aspect as Judgment Day Verses are “all charity” only in Matthew 25:31 – 46’s “… I was hungry, thirsty, naked a stranger …” – What did we do to help them which is Helping Christ and Vice Versa.
Peace to you
God’s Will in Work Life – where many fail
1) God’s Will in Work Life is to have a life which gives enough sleep and “not” the nonsense human wisdom that forces or wants a person to work from early morning till late night, Verse:
“… It is VAIN for you to RISE UP EARLY, To SIT UP LATE, To EAT THE BREAD OF SORROWS; For so He gives His beloved sleep. …” (Psalm 127:2, NKJV)
The Bible Verse calls such a life not as hardworking but “Vain” as the Septuagint reads the same:
“… 2(126:2) It is VAIN for you to RISE EARLY: ye RISE UP AFTER RESTING, ye that EAT THE BREAD OF GRIEF; while he gives sleep to his beloved. …” (Psalm 127:2, LXX, Brenton Septuagint Translation)
Source:
https://biblehub.com/sep/psalms/127.htm
2) The only hardwork that matters to God is if it BENEFITS OTHERS in regards to GOOD WORKS (especially Sharing/Charity and not the labour for self-prosperity or equivalent):
“… 9What profit has the worker from that in which he labors? 10I have seen the God-given task with which the sons of men are to be occupied. 11He has made everything beautiful in its time. Also He has put eternity in their hearts, except that no one can find out the work that God does from beginning to end. 12I know that NOTHING IS BETTER for them than to REJOICE, and TO DO GOOD IN THEIR LIVES, 13and also that every man should eat and drink and enjoy the good of all his labor—it is the gift of God. …” (Ecclesiastes 3:9 – 13, NKJV)
The Septuagint reads the same:
“… 9What advantage has he that works in those things wherein he labours? 10I have seen all the trouble, which God has given to the sons of men to be troubled with. 11All the things which he has made are beautiful in his time: he has also set the whole world in their heart, that man might not find out the work which God has wrought from the beginning even to the end. 12I know that there is NO GOOD IN THEM, EXCEPT FOR A MAN TO REJOICE, and TO DO GOOD IN HIS LIFE. 13Also in the case of every man who shall eat and drink, and see good in all his labour, this is a gift of God. …” (Ecclesiastes 3:9 – 12, LXX, Brenton Septuagint Translation)
Source:
https://biblehub.com/sep/ecclesiastes/3.htm
Conclusion
Please don’t be deceived by potential life-partners and parents who teach contrary to these Verses by trying to make you work hard for them. God is Best because He Does “NOT” require such a work life from us as His Will is Clear in these Verses. Do His Will please based on “Bible Verses/His Law” to avoid “Lawlessness” (Matthew 7:18 – 23) which is DO GOOD WORKS as Ecclesiastes 3:12 above states that in comparison to work, NOTHING IS BETTER. May God Help us be “Biblically Wise”.
If you suffer financially due to obeying these Verses especially in DOING GOOD, it is commendable but not if it’s by living a life against these Verses:
“… 16having a good conscience, that when they defame you as evildoers, those who revile your GOOD CONDUCT IN CHRIST may be ashamed. 17For IT IS BETTER, if it is the WILL OF GOD, to SUFFER FOR DOING GOOD than for doing evil. …” (1 Peter 3:16 – 17, NKJV)
Peace to you
Which is better, to marry or not?
“… You live a good life if you don’t have a wife. …”— Menander, 4th cent. BC, Ancient Greek dramatist (New Comedy)
The Bible Says the Same:
“… 28 But even if you do marry, you have not sinned; and if a virgin marries, she has not sinned. Nevertheless such will have TROUBLE IN THE FLESH, but I WOULD SPARE YOU. … 32But I want you to be without care. He who is UNMARRIED CARES FOR THE THINGS OF THE LORD—how he may PLEASE THE LORD. 33But HE WHO IS MARRIED CARES about the THINGS OF THE WORLD—how he may PLEASE HIS WIFE. … 38So then he who GIVES HER IN MARRIAGE DOES WELL, but he WHO DOES NOT GIVE HER IN MARRIAGE DOES BETTER. …” (1 Corinthians 7:28, 32 – 33, 38, NKJV)
God’s Will allows both marriage and not marrying as a “choice” in Verses above. Yes, the Bible Verses above is clear in that “not” marrying is better in the Context of pleasing the Lord (heavenly) as not one moment may be spent pleasing husband/wife (earthly) and also in that may be “spared of trouble in the flesh that comes with marriage”. No one can have a experience which contradicts the Word of God. So, please ‘choose wisely’ and ‘knowingly’.
More in link below:
https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=10159418420332784&id=651792783
Peace to you
False Teachings, New Commands and Heresies Vs What is Written
Apostle Peter clearly Prophesied and Warned that “false teachings” refer to “new teachings/commands/practices” which are against what is Written & Delivered through “Christ’s Apostles only”, Verses:
“… 1But there were also FALSE PROPHETS among the people, even as there will be FALSE TEACHERS AMONG YOU, who will secretly bring in destructive heresies, even denying the Lord who bought them, and bring on themselves swift destruction. 2And MANY WILL FOLLOW THEIR DESTRUCTIVE WAYS, because of whom THE WAY OF TRUTH WILL BE BLASPHEMED. 3By COVETOUSNESS THEY WILL EXPLOIT YOU with DECEPTIVE WORDS; For a long time their judgment has not been idle, and their destruction [a]does not slumber. …1Beloved, I now write to you this second epistle (in both of which I stir up your pure minds by way of REMINDER), 2that you may be MINDFUL OF THE WORDS which were spoken before by the HOLY PROPHETS, and of the COMMANDMENT OF US, THE APOSTLES of the LORD AND SAVIOR, 3knowing this first: that scoffers will come in the last days, walking according to their own lusts, …” (2 Peter 2:1 – 3, 3:1 – 3, NKJV)
Two things to note in Verses above are the facts that “False Teachers” will exploit in words toward “covetousness” (i.e. speaking and promoting “prosperity doctrines and merchandising/selling the Gospel for profit”, 2 Peter 2:3, 2 Corinthians 2:17, 1 Thessalonians 2:5) and that they will succeed in converting “MANY” (not few, 2 Peter 2:2) among Christians (“among you”, 2 Peter 2:1) who will follow in their ways. So, number of converts is “not” a proof of the Work of God nor of truth as these “Bible Verses” themselves imply in the “last days”.
Here’s a simple logic: Don’t you find it strange that those who don’t want to obey what is Written in New Testament Commands want you to obey their Unwritten commands and practices?
So please be careful and not risk yourself obeying things which are “not” Written through His New Testament Verses and those who teach “against” it stating it doesn’t apply anymore as this reliable First Christianity Faithful Witness also affirms these “Commands of the Lord” (e.g. 1 Corinthians 14:37) which are through His Apostles “only” (2 Peter 3:1 – 3):
“… I DO NOT, as PETER AND PAUL, ISSUE COMMANDMENTS unto you. THEY WERE APOSTLES of JESUS CHRIST, but I am the very least [of believers]: they were free, as the servants of God; while I am, even until now, a servant. But when I suffer, I shall be the freedman of Jesus Christ, and shall rise again emancipated in Him. And now, being in bonds for Him, I LEARN NOT TO DESIRE ANYTHING WORLDLY OR VAIN. …” – Blessed St. Ignatius, Bishop of Antioch, nicknamed ‘God-Bearing’, An Apostolic Father being the direct Disciple of the Blessed Apostle St. John, Martyr for Christ (c. 35 AD – c. 108 AD, Epistle to the Romans)
Source:
http://www.earlychristianwritings.com/text/ignatius-romans-roberts.html
Please notice ‘carefully’ that St. Ignatius of Antioch himself does “not” dare add ‘New Commands’ from God against what is Written in New Testament Verses via Blessed Apostles St. Paul and St. Peter. Why do otherwise and risk our Salvation or Rewards?
Peace to you
Can a Christian Sell Luxury Items? What you do with the Money Matters More
Yes, as did “Lydia” in Verses below describing that she sold “Purple Cloth” (which is “expensive wear”; Verses in image too):
“… 13On the Sabbath we went a little way outside the city to a riverbank, where we thought people would be meeting for prayer, and we sat down to speak with some women who had gathered there. 14One of them was LYDIA FROM THYATIRA, a MERCHANT OF EXPENSIVE PURPLE CLOTH, who worshiped God. As she listened to us, the Lord opened her heart, and she accepted what Paul was saying. 15She and her household were baptized, and she asked us to be her guests. “If you agree that I am a true believer in the Lord,” she said, “come and stay at my home.” And she urged us until we agreed. …” (Acts 16:13 – 15, NLT)
But please don’t sell the Gospel for “profit” (e.g. “prosperity”) as this Verse Warns:
“… Unlike so many, we do not peddle the word of God for profit. On the contrary, in Christ we speak before God with sincerity, as those sent from God. …” (2 Corinthians 2:17, NIV)
Conclusion
In short, sell products and services but “not” the Gospel for “profit”. And use the “Profit” wisely for Kingdom Pursuits such as personal daily needs, ministry, helping the poor and charity works.
What you do with the “money” from the sale of “luxury” items matters more such as doing “Charity” and “sharing” with it, example lifestyle:
“… 36At Joppa there was a certain disciple named TABITHA, which is translated Dorcas. This woman was FULL OF GOOD WORKS AND CHARITABLE DEEDS which SHE DID. 37But it happened in those days that she became sick and died. … 40But Peter put them all out, and knelt down and prayed. And turning to the body he said, “Tabitha, arise.” And she opened her eyes, and when she saw Peter she sat up. 41Then he gave her his hand and lifted her up; and when he had called the saints and widows, he presented her alive. 42And it became known throughout all Joppa, and many believed on the Lord. …” (Acts 9:36 – 37, 40 – 42, NKJV, ‘Tabitha/Dorcas the ‘Charity Worker to the poor & needy’)
This First Christianity Champion Teaches likewise regarding the usage of “unrighteous mammon” (“money”) into “alms/Charity or sharing/equivalent”; yes, who are the “Children of Abraham”?
“… 8. In fine, He calls those the CHILDREN OF ABRAHAM whom He sees to be LABORIOUS IN AIDING and NOURISHING THE POOR. For when Zacchæus said, “Behold, the half of my goods I give to the poor; and if I have done any wrong to any man, I restore fourfold,” JESUS answered and said, “That salvation has this day come to this house, for that he also is a son of Abraham.” [3545, Luke 19:8, 9.] For if Abraham believed in God, and it was counted unto him for righteousness, certainly he who gives alms according to God’s precept believes in God, and he who has the truth of faith maintains the fear of God; moreover, he who maintains the fear of God CONSIDERS GOD IN SHOWING MERCY TO THE POOR. For he labours thus because he believes — because he knows that what is foretold by God’s word is true, and that the Holy Scripture cannot lie — that unfruitful trees, that is, unproductive men, are cut off and cast into the fire, but that the MERCIFUL ARE CALLED INTO THE KINGDOM. He also, in another place, calls laborious and fruitful men faithful; but He denies faith to unfruitful and barren ones, saying, “If ye have NOT BEEN FAITHFUL in the UNRIGHTEOUS MAMMON, who will commit to you that which is true? And if ye have not been faithful in that which is another man’s, who shall give you that which is your own?” [3546, Luke 16:11, 12] …” – Blessed St. Cyprian, Bishop of Carthage, a pre-eminent Latin writer of Western Christianity until Jerome and Augustine, Martyr for Christ (c. 200 AD – c. 258 AD, Point 8, Treatise viii. On Works and Alms)
Source:
https://biblehub.com/library/cyprian/the_treatises_of_cyprian/treatise_viii_on_works_and.htm
Peace to you
Please be Careful of the Prosperity Gospel which Teaches to love and gain the World by faith
Let’s understand the Context of 1 John 2:15 via a direct Disciple of Blessed St. John the Apostle of Christ who wrote this Verse, to quote both:
“… Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. …” (1 John 2:15, NKJV)
“… Do not speak of Jesus Christ, and yet set your desires on the world. … there is within me a water that liveth and speaketh, saying to me inwardly, Come to the Father. I have no delight in corruptible food, nor in the pleasures of this life. I desire the bread of God, the heavenly bread, the bread of life, which is the flesh of Jesus Christ, the Son of God, …” – Blessed St. Ignatius, Bishop of Antioch, nicknamed ‘God-Bearing’, An Apostolic Father being the direct Disciple of the Blessed Apostle St. John, Martyr for Christ (c. 35 AD – c. 108 AD, Epistle to the Romans, Chapter VII)
Source:
http://www.earlychristianwritings.com/text/ignatius-romans-roberts.html
Peace to you
Last will be First Mystery of the Rarest Trees with Good Fruits in Psalm 1
1) Psalm 1 was Written before the Advent of Christ meaning that the “fruit” meant in its Verses in the definition of the “Righteous man” refers primarily to “Good Works” because no one outside of Judaism could convert into Judaism fully before Christ. Can you see it?
“… 1Blessed is the man
Who walks not in the counsel of the [a]ungodly,
Nor stands in the path of sinners,
Nor sits in the seat of the scornful;
2But his delight is in the law of the Lord,
And in His law he [b]meditates day and night.
3HE SHALL BE LIKE A TREE
Planted by the [c]rivers of water,
That brings forth ITS FRUIT IN ITS SEASON,
Whose leaf also shall not wither;
And whatever he does shall prosper. …” (Psalm 1:1 – 3, NKJV)
2) If conversions was the ultimate ‘Good Work’, the MANY in these Verses won’t be rejected. Conversions only work if the adherents do “not” practice lawlessness and produce “Good Fruit” or Good Works in their lives.
“… 18A good tree cannot bear bad fruit, nor can a bad tree bear good fruit. 19Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. 20Therefore by their fruits you will know them. 21“Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father in heaven. 22MANY will say to Me in that day, ‘Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in Your name, cast out demons in Your name, and done many wonders in Your name?’ 23And then I will declare to them, ‘I never knew you; depart from Me, you who practice lawlessness!’ …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 7:18 – 23, NKJV)
3) Relative Measure
Given the same support due to race or other human discriminative factors, many could do better than others and that’s how God Will Judge Fairly with all, Verses:
“… 47And that servant who knew his master’s will, and did not prepare himself or do according to his will, shall be beaten with many stripes. 48But he who did not know, yet committed things deserving of stripes, shall be beaten with few. For everyone to whom much is given, from him much will be required; and to whom much has been committed, of him they will ask the more. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 12:47 – 48, NKJV)
“… He who is faithful in what is least is faithful also in much; and he who is unjust in what is least is unjust also in much. …” (Luke 16:10, NKJV)
“… 26For [k]you see your calling, brethren, that not many wise according to the flesh, not many mighty, not many [l]noble, are called. 27But God has chosen the foolish things of the world to put to shame the wise, and God has chosen the weak things of the world to put to shame the things which are mighty; 28and the [m]base things of the world and the things which are despised God has chosen, and the things which are not, to bring to nothing the things that are, 29that no flesh should glory in His presence. …” (1 Corinthians 1:26 – 29, NKJV)
The fascinating tree is not one which produces fruit with rivers of water supporting it and that which is continuously fertilized but one that is neglected but yet produces fruits (example: many often claim that they will give to charity & seek the Gospel after they become rich but not to the point that they become poor):
“… 7They said to him, ‘Because NO ONE HIRED US.’ He said to them, ‘You also go into the vineyard, [b]and WHATEVER IS RIGHT YOU WILL RECEIVE.’ 8“So when evening had come, the owner of the vineyard said to his steward, ‘Call the laborers and give them their wages, BEGINNING WITH THE LAST TO THE FIRST.’ 9And when those came who were hired about the eleventh hour, they each received a denarius. 10But when the first came, they supposed that they would receive more; and they likewise received each a denarius. 11And when they had received it, they [c]complained against the landowner, 12saying, ‘THESE LAST MEN HAVE WORKED ONLY ONE HOUR, and you made them EQUAL TO US who have borne the burden and the heat of the day.’ 13But he answered one of them and said, ‘Friend, I am doing you no wrong. Did you not agree with me for a denarius? 14Take what is yours and go your way. I WISH TO GIVE TO THIS LAST MAN THE SAME AS TO YOU. 15Is it not lawful for me to do what I wish with my own things? Or is your eye evil because I am good?’ 16So the LAST WILL BE FIRST, AND THE FIRST LAST. For[d] many are called, but FEW CHOSEN.” …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 20:7 – 16, NKJV)
Please notice the phrases “… Because NO ONE HIRED US.’ …” (Race/human discrimination factors) + “… WHATEVER IS RIGHT YOU WILL RECEIVE.’ …” (According to relative Measure and not unfair wages simply) + “… THESE LAST MEN HAVE WORKED ONLY ONE HOUR, and you made them EQUAL TO US …” (Relative measure) + “… 16So the LAST WILL BE FIRST, AND THE FIRST LAST. …”.
“… 27Then Peter answered and said to Him, “See, we have LEFT ALL and FOLLOWED YOU. Therefore what shall we have?” 28So Jesus said to them, “Assuredly I say to you, that in the REGENERATION, when the Son of Man sits on the throne of His glory, you who have followed Me will also sit on twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel. 29And EVERYONE who has LEFT HOUSES or brothers or sisters or father or mother or wife or children or LANDS, for MY NAME’S SAKE, shall RECEIVE a HUNDREDFOLD, and INHERIT ETERNAL LIFE. 30But MANY who are FIRST will be LAST, and the LAST FIRST. …” (Matthew 19:27 – 30, NKJV)
Example:
“… 1And He looked up and saw the rich putting their gifts into the treasury, 2and He saw also a certain poor widow putting in two mites.[a] 3So He said, “TRULY I say to you that this POOR widow has put in MORE THAN ALL; 4for all these out of their abundance have put in offerings [b]for God, but she OUT OF HER POVERTY PUT IN ALL THE LIVELIHOOD THAT SHE HAD.” …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 21:1 – 4, NKJV)
Conclusion – Definition of the “Fruits of Repentance” by “Blessed St. John the Baptist”
“… 7Then he said to the multitudes that came out to be baptized by him, “Brood of vipers! Who warned you to flee from the wrath to come? 8Therefore bear FRUITS WORTHY OF REPENTANCE, and do not begin 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. 9And 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.” 10So the people asked him, saying, “What shall we do then?” 11He answered and said to them, “HE WHO HAS TWO TUNICS, let him GIVE TO HIM WHO HAS NONE; and HE WHO HAS FOOD, LET HIM DO LIKEWISE.” 12Then tax collectors also came to be baptized, and said to him, “Teacher, what shall we do?” 13And he said to them, “COLLECT NO MORE THAN WHAT IS APPOINTED FOR YOU.” 14Likewise the soldiers asked him, saying, “And what shall we do?” So he said to them, “DO NOT INTIMIDATE ANYONE or ACCUSE FALSELY, and BE CONTENT WITH YOUR WAGES. …” (Luke 3:7 – 14, NKJV)
Definition by Blessed Apostle St. Paul:
“… 9As it is written:
“He has dispersed abroad,
He has GIVEN TO THE POOR;
His RIGHTEOUSNESS endures FOREVER.”
10Now [g]may He who supplies seed to the sower, and bread for food, [h]supply and multiply the seed you have sown and INCREASE THE FRUITS OF YOUR RIGHTEOUSNESS, 11while you are enriched in everything for ALL LIBERALITY, which causes THANKSGIVING THROUGH US TO GOD. 12For the ADMINISTRATION OF THIS SERVICE not only SUPPLIES THE NEEDS OF THE SAINTS, but also is ABOUNDING THROUGH MANY THANKSGIVINGS TO GOD, 13while, through the PROOF OF THIS MINISTRY, THEY GLORIFY GOD for the OBEDIENCE OF YOUR CONFESSION to the GOSPEL OF CHRIST, and for YOUR LIBERAL SHARING WITH THEM and ALL MEN, …” (2 Corinthians 9:9 – 13, NKJV)
Peace to you
True Story – A Tale of Two Same aged Men
Please allow me to share two true stories (of people I know, not me) who are of the “same age” (both now fully grown men at the age of 35). Let’s call them A and B.
1) Background
i) A
Grew up without a father. Was adopted by a non-blood relation sister. Went to work after completing high school. Didn’t have proper father figure to guide him in his life. Neither his biological parents nor his adopted parents gave him any inheritance.
ii) B
Grew up in a perfect home with everything provided. Had his own room and his private university education fully paid by parents. Fed nicely by the mother and now by the father till today.
2) Life Story up to time of writing
i) A
Sleeps on the couch in the house where he is adopted to not trouble that family. Works hard from morning to night and provides for the family which adopted him financially via almost half his salary monthly. Well known in his workplace for his discipline and hard work. Attends church and helps there. Sends Bible Verses to others daily to encourage others with the little education that he has. First to help anyone in need which has some people regularly giving him money to help the poor. Doesn’t just pray for the poor, widows, orphans and charity homes be visits but also includes his personal money in such donations and buying of food stuff that he does regularly. Doesn’t have any dirty habits such as womenizing, drinking, drugs nor smoking cigarettes even. Life on routine repeat in these Good Works and Faith in Christ.
ii) B
Did some drugs when younger and hated his brother who exposed it. Not sure if he does drugs till today. Smokes cigarettes in the parent’s house. Parents tried to hide that drug abuse fact by hiding him away from facing the consequences of his decisions and pampered him by providing everything for him. Wasted parents money on private education a few times before finishing his degree. Till today doesn’t work and claims to look for job. Never contributed anything financially to his own family but robbed the siblings of their share of the inheritance. Till today makes an aged father to work and provide for him while the eldest brother suffers a house loan to buy him a house (worth RM 300000). Personally till today, he never worked nor paid a cent for that house. His second elder brother gave RM 250000 plus to his father where apart from blowing up some of the money in some failed business deal, more than RM 140000 was given to service that house loan. So the second brother has already done more than his part in this. Doesn’t preach the Gospel nor attends church nor does any charity works nor helps the poor. Likes to live in isolation in that house without mixing with others. Never tried to live to help others earlier in his life even. May have a drinking habit (not sure). Too proud to work simple jobs and waits for the imaginary job which never arrived till today. Gets very angry if someone looks down on him but never did anything which could help people look up to him.
Conclusion
1. This is how parents spoil their children by giving them too much when they don’t even work a little for it.
2. If it was other people’s children living like B, these same parents would have condemned such children and parenting. They’re blind to their own practice which is the same.
3. Who is going to take care and pamper B if the last remaining parent dies? He may return to drugs and destroy himself. The parents will bear the sin if they don’t get him to proper help where he returns to work properly.
4. Surprisingly, by looking at the background, one would expect A to turn out like B while B to turn out like A but it’s the exact opposite.
May God have Mercy and lead B to repent and live a proper life to fulfill His Will.
“… To be respected, one needs to do things worthy of respect first …” – Anonymous
If anybody thinks that B is good, please pray that you get a son exactly like that and if you suffer for him likewise, then why complain to God for him to change if we are not ready to correct him properly as per Bible Verses (e.g. Verses in image)? It’s okay to receive help if we become old or become physically or mentally incapable of working but not because of this.
For example in the Bible Verses below it is prohibited to help younger widows (who can work) or even those who physically can support themselves. Yes, the earliest Church provided for the widows or needy on a daily basis. In fact, the best people to help take care in their old age or fall is those who have done “plenty of Good Works” toward others during their lives first as these Bible Verses (not opinions of men) clearly imply where it means helping those lazy ones against these Bible Principles is “not” counted as Good Works of value, can you see it? (So please help wisely only):
“… 9Do not let a widow under sixty years old be taken into the number, and not unless she has been the wife of one man, 10WELL REPORTED FOR GOOD WORKS: if she has BROUGHT UP CHILDREN, if SHE HAS LODGED STRANGERS, if she has washed the saints’ feet, if she has RELIEVED THE AFFLICTED, IF SHE HAS DILIGENTLY FOLLOWED EVERY GOOD WORK. 11But [c]refuse the younger widows; for when they have begun to grow wanton against Christ, they desire to marry, 12having condemnation because they have cast off their first [d]faith. …” (1 Timothy 5:9 – 12, NKJV)
Two things are clear from these Verses namely, don’t help the lazy and especially help those who have helped others. To not do so may be a curse and to do so may be a blessing or reward in His Kingdom. If it didn’t matter, these Verses won’t be Written at all.
Peace to you
Looking for Healing from God? – Conditional Healing Promise for some via the Charity Doctrine
1) The Condition
“… 7Is it not to deal thy BREAD to the HUNGRY, and that thou bring the POOR that are cast out TO THY HOUSE? when thou SEEST the NAKED, that THOU COVER HIM and that thou hide not thyself from thine own flesh? …” (Isaiah 58:7, KJV)
2) The Promise
“… 8Then shall THY LIGHT break forth as the MORNING, and thine HEALTH shall spring forth SPEEDILY: and thy righteousness shall go before thee; the glory of the LORD shall be thy rereward. … 10And if thou draw out THY SOUL to the HUNGRY, and SATISFY the AFFLICTED SOUL; then shall THY LIGHT RISE in obscurity, and THY DARKNESS be as the NOONDAY: 11And the LORD shall GUIDE THEE CONTINUALLY, and SATISFY THY SOUL IN DROUGHT, and MAKE FAT THY BONES: and THOU SHALT BE LIKE A WATERED GARDEN, and like a SPRING OF WATER, WHOSE WATERS FAIL NOT. 12And they that shall be of thee shall build the old waste places: thou shalt raise up the foundations of many generations; and thou shalt be called, The repairer of the breach, The restorer of paths to dwell in. …” (Isaiah 58:8, 10 – 12, KJV)
Conclusion – These Bible Verses in Full
“… 7Is it not to deal thy BREAD to the HUNGRY, and that thou bring the POOR that are cast out TO THY HOUSE? when thou SEEST the NAKED, that THOU COVER HIM and that thou hide not thyself from thine own flesh? 8Then shall THY LIGHT break forth as the MORNING, and thine HEALTH shall spring forth SPEEDILY: and thy righteousness shall go before thee; the glory of the LORD shall be thy rereward. … 10And if thou draw out THY SOUL to the HUNGRY, and SATISFY the AFFLICTED SOUL; then shall THY LIGHT RISE in obscurity, and THY DARKNESS be as the NOONDAY: 11And the LORD shall guide thee continually, and satisfy thy soul in drought, and make fat thy bones: and thou shalt be like a watered garden, and like a spring of water, whose waters fail not. 12And they that shall be of thee shall build the old waste places: thou shalt raise up the foundations of many generations; and thou shalt be called, The repairer of the breach, The restorer of paths to dwell in.” (Isaiah 58:7 – 8, 10 – 12, KJV)
Context: Isaiah 58 discusses the Context of a ‘failed fasting and prayer’ which didn’t work without the “Charity Doctrine”, Verses:
“… 1“Cry aloud, [a]spare not;
Lift up your voice like a trumpet;
Tell My people their transgression,
And the house of Jacob their sins. … 3‘Why have we fasted,’ they say, ‘and You have not seen?
Why have we afflicted our souls, and You take no notice?’ … 5Is it A FAST THAT I HAVE CHOSEN,
A day for a man to afflict his soul?
Is it to bow down his head like a bulrush,
And to spread out sackcloth and ashes?
WOULD YOU CALL THIS A FAST,
And an ACCEPTABLE DAY TO THE LORD?
6“Is THIS NOT THE FAST THAT I HAVE CHOSEN:
To LOOSE THE BONDS OF WICKEDNESS,
To UNDO THE [C]HEAVY BURDENS,
To LET THE OPPRESSED GO FREE,
And that you BREAK EVERY YOKE?
7Is it not to SHARE YOUR BREAD WITH THE HUNGRY, And that YOU BRING TO YOUR HOUSE THE POOR who are [d]cast out;
When YOU SEE THE NAKED, THAT YOU COVER HIM,
And NOT HIDE YOURSELF FROM YOUR OWN FLESH? …” (Isaiah 58:1, 3, 5 – 7, NKJV)
Lessons:
1) Fasting and Prayer doesn’t work if we do “not” do the Charity Doctrine. Which Charity Doctrines are referred to in Verses above?
i. To LOOSE THE BONDS OF WICKEDNESS,
ii. To UNDO THE [C]HEAVY BURDENS,
iii. To LET THE OPPRESSED GO FREE,
iv. And that you BREAK EVERY YOKE?
v. SHARE YOUR BREAD WITH THE HUNGRY,
vi. YOU BRING TO YOUR HOUSE THE POOR who are [d]cast out;
vii. When YOU SEE THE NAKED, THAT YOU COVER HIM,
viii. NOT HIDE YOURSELF FROM YOUR OWN FLESH? (Help your own family members and relatives too)
2) It’s not a magic formula to be free of diseases or to be financially secure because even such a faithful son in the faith, Blessed St. Timothy himself had “frequent ailments” which Blessed Apostle St. Paul never prayed over for complete healing, Verse:
“… No longer drink only water, but use a little wine for your stomach’s sake and your frequent infirmities. …” (1 Timothy 5:23, NKJV)
Why? To some, it has been granted to “suffer for His Sake” beyond believing only where their Glory will be thus Greater, Verses:
“… 17For it is better, if it is the will of God, to suffer for doing good than for doing evil. …” (1 Peter 3:17, NKJV)
“… For to you it has been granted on behalf of Christ, not only to believe in Him, but also to suffer for His sake, …” (Philippians 1:29, NKJV)
“… Resist him, steadfast in the faith, knowing that the same sufferings are experienced by your brotherhood in the world. …” (1 Peter 5:9, NKJV)
“… So they departed from the presence of the council, rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer shame for His name. …” (Acts 5:41, NKJV)
“… 12Beloved, do not think it strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened to you; 13but rejoice to the extent that you partake of Christ’s sufferings, that when His glory is revealed, you may also be glad with exceeding joy. 14If you are reproached for the name of Christ, blessed are you, for the Spirit of glory and of God rests upon you. On their part He is blasphemed, but on your part He is glorified. 15But let none of you suffer as a murderer, a thief, an evildoer, or as a busybody in other people’s matters. 16Yet if anyone suffers as a Christian, let him not be ashamed, but let him glorify God in this matter. …” (1 Peter 4:12 – 16, NKJV)
3) If our life is financially good & in good health without doing the Charity Doctrine or whilst in sin/lawlessness, it’s a dangerous sign as ‘that prosperity is NOT from God but from the Devil’ which ends in “Hell” as these Bible Verses imply:
“… 3For I was envious of the boastful, When I saw the prosperity of the wicked. 4For there are no pangs in their death, But their strength is firm. 5They are not in trouble as other men, Nor are they plagued like other men. … 7Their eyes bulge with abundance; They have more than heart could wish. … 12Behold, these are the ungodly, Who are always at ease; They increase in riches. …” (Psalms 73:3 – 5, 7, 12, NKJV)
“… 22So it was that the beggar died, and was carried by the angels to Abraham’s bosom. The rich man also died and was buried. 23And being in torments in Hades, he lifted up his eyes and saw Abraham afar off, and Lazarus in his bosom 24“Then he cried and said, ‘Father Abraham, have mercy on me, and send Lazarus that he may dip the tip of his finger in water and cool my tongue; for I am tormented in this flame.’ 25But Abraham said, ‘Son, REMEMBER that in YOUR LIFETIME YOU RECEIVED YOUR GOOD THINGS, and likewise Lazarus evil things; but now he is comforted and YOU are TORMENTED. 26And besides all this, between us and you there is a great gulf fixed, so that those who want to pass from here to you cannot, nor can those from there pass to us.’ …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 16:22 – 26, NKJV)
Here’s a question to Ponder: With so many Scriptures pointing to the Charity Doctrine as even Christ Himself Commanded it, ever wondered if the Devil wants you to ignore it so that you don’t get its full reward be it here or in His Kingdom? Also, God never condemned anybody for doing these Charity Doctrine even when it is Done hypocritically as in the case of the Pharisees where He Still Promised them some reward, Verses:
“…1“Take heed that you do not do your charitable deeds before men, to be seen by them. Otherwise you have no reward from your Father in heaven. 2Therefore, when you do a charitable deed, do not sound a trumpet before you as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets, that they may have glory from men. Assuredly, I SAY TO YOU, THEY HAVE THEIR REWARD. 3But when you do a charitable deed, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, 4that your charitable deed may be in secret; and your Father who sees in secret will Himself reward you [a]openly. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 6:1 – 5, NKJV)
The “Charity Doctrine” is the only thing I know of in Scripture when even if it is done ‘wrongly/hypocritically’ it gets ‘some type of reward’ as the phrase “… I SAY TO YOU, THEY HAVE THEIR REWARD …” means (in Matthew 6:2 above). . This means Teaching and Obeying this Doctrine is ‘Always Beneficial Unconditionally in some way’. Can you see it?
So, may God please Help us be Wise according to “Bible Verses”.
Indeed, we may think that we are giving much but a Giving with “no” effect as the Case of a Poor Widow which may “not” have fed anyone is still the Greatest as that’s how God is Fair to everyone by including “relative measure” (that is based on what one’s given first), Verses:
“… 1And He looked up and saw the rich putting their gifts into the treasury, 2and He saw also a certain poor widow putting in two mites.[a] 3So He [JESUS] said, “TRULY I say to you that this POOR widow has put in MORE THAN ALL; 4for all these out of their abundance have put in offerings [b]for God, but she OUT OF HER POVERTY PUT IN ALL THE LIVELIHOOD THAT SHE HAD.” …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 21:1 – 4, NKJV)
Peace to you
Tithes is also a Charity Doctrine if fully understood
Bible Verse:
“… Bring ALL THE TITHES into the storehouse, That there may be FOOD IN MY HOUSE, And try Me now in this,” Says the LORD of hosts, “If I will not open for you the windows of heaven And pour out for you such blessing That there will not be room enough to receive it. …” (Malachi 3:10, NKJV)
Can you see it?
I am not going to debate here whether or not the Tithing Doctrine applies to the New Testament but rather am going to point out that assuming it’s true, please note carefully that God Requires the “Tithe” to be Given as “Food” for the priests and the poor (Orphans and Widows) for it to be Counted to fulfilling the Famous Verse above to get its Promise. The fact that “tithes” money are to be used for Charity/Food type of works is reiterated in the Law/Torah too, Verse:
“… 28“At the end of every third year you shall bring out the TITHE OF YOUR PRODUCE of that year and store it up within your gates. And the LEVITE, because he has no portion nor inheritance with you, and the STRANGER AND THE FATHERLESS and the WIDOW who are within your gates, may come and eat and be satisfied, that the LORD your God may bless you in all the work of your hand which you do. …” (Deuteronomy 14:28 – 29, NKJV)
In other words two things are clear in Malachi 3:10 for those who believe in the Tithe Doctrine:
1) Tithes are for “Food” (Charity Doctrine) for the needs of the Priest (Levite), stranger (foreigner, poor), fatherless (orphans) and widow.
2) The phrase “food in My House” means any real Church must provide this food to its needy in its local community with the Tithes money.
Nowhere it is stated that the Tithes Money can be used for “Prosperity” Pursuits as the Prosperity Gospel errs. Can you see it?
Also, if so great a Promise is Given in Malachi 3:10 for just the “Tithes” Doctrine which is only 10% of Income given, ever wondered what God Will Give as “Treasures in Heaven” for those great givers beyond that toward the Charity Doctrine (e.g. especially those who renounce all as per Matthew 19:21, Matthew 19:27 – 30, Luke 14:33, Acts 2:44 – 46, Acts 4:32) as it is Mysteriously Echoed in Christ’s Most Blessed Words below:
“… 31“But SEEK HIS KINGDOM, and THESE THINGS will be ADDED TO YOU. 32“Do not be afraid, little flock, for your Father has chosen gladly to give you the kingdom. 33“SELL YOUR POSSESSIONS and GIVE TO CHARITY; make yourselves money belts which do not wear out, an unfailing treasure in heaven, where no thief comes near nor moth destroys. 34“For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. 35“Be dressed in readiness, and KEEP YOUR LAMPS LIT. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 12:31 – 35, NASB)
Christ Affirmed it, here are a few translations of that Verse:
“… But rather give alms of such things as ye have; and, behold, all things are clean unto you. …” (Luke 11:41, KJV)
“… But rather give alms of such things as you have; then indeed all things are clean to you. …” (Luke 11:41, NKJV)
“… But WHAT YE HAVE GIVE YE AS ALMS, and, lo, ALL THINGS are CLEAN TO YOU. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Young’s Literal Translation, Luke 11:41, YLT)
“… But now as for WHAT IS INSIDE YOU–be GENEROUS TO THE POOR, and EVERYTHING WILL BE CLEAN FOR YOU. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 11:41, NIV)
Again, it is the “Charity Doctrine” if properly understood based on what’s Written in Malachi 3:10 itself with the Torah/Law (Deuteronomy 14:28 – 29) and most importantly with Christ’s Own Most Blessed Words (e.g. Luke 11:41, Luke 12:31 – 35), right? Now Christ’s Words below can be understood in this Context of “Perfection”:
“… 20The young man said to Him, “All these things I have kept [g]from my youth. What do I still lack?”21JESUS said to him, “If you want to be PERFECT, GIVE to the POOR, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, FOLLOW ME.” 22But when the young man heard that saying, he went away SORROWFUL, for he had GREAT POSSESSIONS.23Then Jesus said to His disciples, “Assuredly, I say to you that it is HARD for a RICH MAN TO ENTER THE KINGDOM OF HEAVEN. 24And AGAIN I say to you, it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God. … 27Then Peter answered and said to Him, “See, we have LEFT ALL and FOLLOWED YOU. Therefore what shall we have?” … 28So Jesus said to them, “Assuredly I say to you, that in the REGENERATION, when the Son of Man sits on the throne of His glory, you who have followed Me will also sit on twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel. 29And EVERYONE who has LEFT HOUSES or brothers or sisters or father or mother or wife or children or LANDS, for MY NAME’S SAKE, shall RECEIVE a HUNDREDFOLD, and INHERIT ETERNAL LIFE. 30But MANY who are FIRST will be LAST, and the LAST FIRST. …” (Matthew 19:20 – 24, 27 – 30, NKJV)
Peace to you
Zero Political Christianity with New Testament Verses
I like this quote via Mr. Rami K.:
“… Man matures when he stops believing that politics solves his problems. …” —Nicolás Gómez Dávila
What does Holy Scripture Say?
1) There is “no” God’s Will of forming any “Kingdom of God” now on earth visibly
“… Jesus answered, “My kingdom is not of this world. If My kingdom were of this world, My servants would fight, so that I should not be delivered to the Jews; but now My kingdom is not from here.” …” (John 18:36, NKJV)
2) God only ‘Begins’ to ‘Reign on EARTH VISIBLY’ after the last “Seventh Trumpet” is Sounded meaning that He is ‘not’ Reigning on Earth via any Religious Christianity either (He Reigns now fully in the Heavens or the Spirit World):
“… 15Then the SEVENTH ANGEL SOUNDED; and there were loud voices in heaven, saying, “THE KINGDOM OF THE WORLD HAS BECOME THE KINGDOM OF OUR LORD and of HIS [K]CHRIST; and He will reign forever and ever.” 16And the twenty-four elders, who sit on their thrones before God, fell on their faces and worshiped God, 17saying, “We give You thanks, Lord God, the Almighty, the One who is and who was, because You have taken Your great power and HAVE BEGUN TO REIGN. 18And the nations were enraged, and Your wrath came, and THE TIME CAME FOR THE DEAD TO BE JUDGED, and the time to [l]reward Your bond-servants the prophets and the [m]saints and those who fear Your name, the small and the great, and to destroy those who destroy the earth.” …” (Revelation 11:15 – 18, NKJV)
This Reign ushers in the 1000 Millennial Reign of Christ (Revelation 20:4 – 6). Notice also the “dead are Judged” when He ‘Begins’ to Reign on Earth Visibly indicating it to a future time after the Last Seventh Angel has Sounded.
3) God’s Will is to accept any political situation as long as we are Doing Good which is rewardable if we suffer evil for it
“… For it is better, if it is the will of God, to suffer for doing good than for doing evil. …” (1 Peter 3:17, NKJV)
4) Biblical Political Example: Slavery Concept
i) If you are a Slave, as long as you did your duty as to Christ, that life of discrimination becomes a reward in His Kingdom
“… Bondservants, be obedient to those who are your masters according to the flesh, with fear and trembling, in sincerity of heart, as to Christ; 6not with eyeservice, as men-pleasers, but as bondservants of Christ, doing the will of God from the heart, 7with goodwill doing service, as to the Lord, and not to men, 8KNOWING THAT WHATEVER GOOD ANYONE DOES, HE WILL RECEIVE THE SAME FROM THE LORD, WHETHER HE IS A SLAVE or free. …” (Ephesians 6:5 – 8, NKJV)
So the Political movement of keeping slave or no slaves have “no” effect on a Christian either way as long as he does Good, he Will be Repaid by God in Heaven.
ii) Blessed Apostle St. Pau did not support Slavery but Spoke of being released from it is the better way but it ought to be done “not” via political violence but the Loving Way of non-violence
“… 21WERE YOU CALLED AS A SLAVE? DO NOT LET IT CONCERN YOU. But IF YOU ARE ALSO ABLE TO BECOME FREE, TAKE ADVANTAGE OF THAT. 22For the one who was called in the Lord as a slave, is the Lord’s freed person; likewise the one who was called as free, is Christ’s slave …” (1 Corinthians 7:21 – 22, NASB)
Conclusion – The Way of Love is Voluntary Good and not Forced Political Changes even if it’s Good
Example: Any Forgoing of Slavery (e.g. Political Change) must “not” be Forced via earthly ways but via VOLUNTARY action as the analogy of “slavery” proves Biblically likewise too in Verses below:
“… 14But without your consent I wanted to do nothing, that YOUR GOOD DEED might NOT BE BY COMPULSION, as it were, BUT VOLUNTARY. 15For perhaps he departed for a while for this purpose, that YOU MIGHT RECEIVE HIM forever, 16NO LONGER AS A SLAVE but MORE THAN A SLAVE—A BELOVED BROTHER, especially to me but how much more to you, BOTH IN THE FLESH AND IN THE LORD. 17If then you count me as a partner, RECEIVE HIM AS YOU WOULD ME. …” – Blessed St. Paul the Great Apostle of Christ (Philomen 1:14 – 17, NKJV)
Peace to you
Deepest Ends of Theology – Love God Love Neighbor
“… 29Jesus answered him, “The [k]first of all the commandments is: ‘Hear, O Israel, the Lord our God, the Lord is one. 30And you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your mind, and with all your strength.’ [l]This is the first commandment. 31And the second, like it, is this: ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is no other commandment greater than these.” …” (Mark 12:29 – 31, NKJV)
“… 25And behold, a certain lawyer stood up and tested Him, saying, “Teacher, what shall I DO TO INHERIT ETERNAL LIFE?” 26He said to him, “What is WRITTEN IN THE LAW? What is YOUR READING OF IT?” 27So he answered and said, “ ‘You shall LOVE THE LORD YOUR GOD with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your strength, and with all your mind,’ and ‘YOUR NEIGHBOR AS YOURSELF.’ ” 28And He said to him, “You have answered rightly; DO THIS AND YOU WILL LIVE.” 29But he, wanting to justify himself, said to Jesus, “And WHO IS MY NEIGHBOR?” 30Then JESUS ANSWERED and said: “A certain man went down from Jerusalem to Jericho, and fell among thieves, who stripped him of his clothing, wounded him, and departed, leaving him half dead. 31Now by chance a certain priest came down that road. And when he saw him, he passed by on the other side. 32Likewise a Levite, when he arrived at the place, came and looked, and passed by on the other side. 33But a certain Samaritan, as he journeyed, came where he was. And when he saw him, he had COMPASSION. 34So he went to him and BANDAGED HIS WOUNDS, pouring on oil and wine; and he set him on his own animal, brought him to an inn, and TOOK CARE OF HIM. 35On the next day, when he departed, he took out two denarii, gave them to the innkeeper, and said to him, ‘TAKE CARE OF HIM; and WHATEVER MORE YOU SPEND, when I come again, I WILL REPAY YOU.’ 36So which of these three do you think was NEIGHBOR to him who fell among the thieves? 37And he said, “He who SHOWED MERCY on him.”
Then JESUS SAID to him, “GO AND DO LIKEWISE.”…” (Luke 10:25 – 37, NKJV)
“… For all the law is fulfilled in one word, even in this: “You shall love your neighbor as yourself.” …” (Galatians 5:14, NKJV)
“… 8If you really fulfill the royal law according to the Scripture, “You shall love your neighbor as yourself,” you do well; 9but if you [e]show partiality, you commit sin, and are convicted by the law as transgressors. …” (James 2:8 – 9, NKJV)
Yes, helping your own family or friends or same race/same denomination who love you back doesn’t count for credit at all, Verse:
“… But if you love those who love you, what credit is that to you? For even sinners love those who love them. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 6:32, NKJV)
Beyond Credits, the Greatest Love of God is toward those who “… Do His Commandments…”. That’s a reason why we emphasize so much on “His New Testament Commands”:
Human beings usually use a mother’s love or family love to describe the greatest love but the Bible uses the “Friend” Relationship to Describe the Greatest Love of All, Verse:
“… 13Greater love has no one than this, than to lay down one’s life for his friends. 14You are My friends if you do whatever I command you. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (John 15:13 – 14, NKJV)
Peace to you
Saved Vs Unsaved Rich Men Biblically
1) Unsaved Rich Christians:
“… 1Come now, YOU RICH, weep and howl for your miseries that are coming upon you! 2Your riches are corrupted, and your garments are moth-eaten. 3Your GOLD and SILVER are corroded, and their corrosion will be a witness against you and will EAT YOUR FLESH LIKE FIRE. You have HEAPED up TREASURE in the LAST DAYS. … 5You have lived on the earth in PLEASURE and LUXURY; you have fattened your hearts as in a DAY of SLAUGHTER. …”
– Blessed St. James the Just, First Bishop of Jerusalem (James 5:1 – 3, 5, NKJV)
Comment: Apostle St. James doesn’t say, just believe in Christ and live in luxury with those same hoarding and you will be Saved. Christ Himself Warned that it’s hard for a rich man to enter heaven while discussing the context toward Perfection of “… Sell what you have and Give to the Poor …” which the Rich Man couldn’t do even a little:
“… 21JESUS said to him, “IF you want to be PERFECT, go, SELL what YOU HAVE and GIVE to the POOR, and YOU WILL HAVE TREASURE IN HEAVEN; and come, FOLLOW ME.” 22But when the young man heard that saying, he went away SORROWFUL, for he had GREAT POSSESSIONS.23Then JESUS said to His disciples, “Assuredly, I say to you that it is HARD for a RICH MAN TO ENTER THE KINGDOM OF HEAVEN. 24And AGAIN I say to you, it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God. …” (Matthew 19:21 – 24, NKJV)
2) Saved Rich Christians:
“… 17COMMAND THOSE WHO ARE RICH in this present age not to be haughty, nor to trust in uncertain riches but in the living God, who gives us richly all things to enjoy. 18Let THEM DO GOOD, that they be RICH IN GOOD WORKS, READY TO GIVE, WILLING TO SHARE, 19storing up for themselves a good foundation for the time to come, that THEY MAY LAY HOLD ON ETERNAL LIFE. …” (1 Timothy 6:17 – 19, NKJV)
“… 12Then He also said to him who invited Him, “When you give a dinner or a supper, do not ask your friends, your brothers, your relatives, NOR RICH NEIGHBORS, lest they also invite you back, and you be repaid. 13But when you give a feast, INVITE the POOR, THE MAIMED, THE LAME, THE BLIND. 14And you will be BLESSED, because they cannot repay you; for you shall be REPAID at the RESURRECTION OF THE JUST.” …” (Luke 14:12 – 14, NKJV)
Zacchaeus gave “half of his goods to the poor” and on top of that restored fourfold whatever he wronged, and following this immediately Christ Responded that Salvation has come and that he is Saved, Verses:
“… 5And when Jesus came to the place, He looked up [a]and saw him, and said to him, “Zacchaeus, [b]make haste and come down, for today I must stay at your house.” 6So he [c]made haste and came down, and received Him joyfully. 7But when they saw it, they all [d]complained, saying, “He has gone to be a guest WITH A MAN WHO IS A SINNER.” 8Then Zacchaeus stood and said to the Lord, “LOOK, LORD, I GIVE HALF OF MY GOODS TO THE POOR; AND IF I HAVE TAKEN ANYTHING FROM ANYONE BY FALSE ACCUSATION, I RESTORE FOURFOLD.” 9And JESUS SAID TO HIM, “TODAY SALVATION HAS COME TO THIS HOUSE, because he also is a son of Abraham; 10for THE SON OF MAN has come TO SEEK AND TO SAVE THAT WHICH WAS LOST.” …” (Luke 19:5 – 9, NKJV)
This is how Salvation looks like to a rich man who truly believes in Christ (a Biblical example above).
Comment: None of the people who were more Righteous than Zacchaeus in that place could do what he did and Christ Approved it. Please notice that Christ Approved it even when Zacchaeus Publicly declared his charitable deed. Can you see it? Hypocrisy is a matter of the heart where one gives to gain more on earth or with another person’s money but taking credit for it or not loving while giving as other Verses imply.
Conclusion
Firstly, we must stop quoting the Old Testament rich faithful because some of them too had many wives which was “not” God’s Will in the “Torah/Law” itself especially for “leaders” (Rulers/Kings) but God Overlooked it in “times past” but Commands men now to Repent in these “Last Days” from Wealth hoarding too (as James 5:1 – 5 above warns too), Verses:
“… Truly, these times of ignorance God overlooked, but now commands all men everywhere to repent, …” (Acts 17:30, NKJV)
This “non-Prosperity Gospel” was Commanded in the Context of inheriting the “Promised Land” itself, Torah/Law Verses:
“… 14“When you come to the land which the Lord your God is giving you, and possess it and dwell in it, and say, ‘I will set a king over me like all the nations that are around me,’ 15you shall SURELY SET A KING over you whom the Lord your God chooses; one from among your brethren you shall set as king over you; you may not set a foreigner over you, who is not your brother. 16But he shall not multiply horses for himself, nor cause the people to return to Egypt to multiply horses, for the Lord has said to you, ‘You shall not return that way again.’ 17Neither shall he multiply wives for himself, lest his heart turn away; NOR SHALL HE GREATLY MULTIPLY SILVER AND GOLD FOR HIMSELF. …” (Deuteronomy 17:14 – 17, NKJV)
The Septuagint reads the same for this part implying that this is definitely true:
“… 17And he shall not multiply to himself wives, lest his heart turn away; and HE SHALL NOT GREATLY MULTIPLY TO HIMSELF SILVER AND GOLD. …” (Deuteronomy 17:17, Brenton Septuagint Translation, LXX)
Source:
https://biblehub.com/sep/deuteronomy/17.htm
The Great Commission is only Fulfilled in Full if we teach them to “observe all Christ Commanded” in New Testament Verses:
“… 18And Jesus came and spoke to them, saying, “All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. 19Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20TEACHING THEM TO OBSERVE ALL THINGS THAT I HAVE COMMANDED YOU; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” Amen. …” (Matthew 28:18 – 20, NKJV)
Some Rich Christians may be Saved but may “not” acquire much of the Mysterious “Treasures in Heaven” which is only available to those who “shared/Gave much”, Verses:
“… So is he who lays up treasure for himself, and is not rich toward God. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 12:21, NKJV)
“… 31“But SEEK HIS KINGDOM, and THESE THINGS will be ADDED TO YOU. 32“Do not be afraid, little flock, for your Father has chosen gladly to give you the kingdom. 33“SELL YOUR POSSESSIONS and GIVE TO CHARITY; make yourselves money belts which do not wear out, an UNFAILING TREASURE IN HEAVEN, where no thief comes near nor moth destroys. 34“For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. 35“Be dressed in readiness, and KEEP YOUR LAMPS LIT. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 12:31 – 35, NASB)
“… If you love Me, keep My commandments. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (John 14:15, NKJV)
Please don’t be Deceived to lose for eternity the Greatest Treasures of Heaven whilst chasing the ones on Earth because if “we love Him, we must keep His Commands” (John 14:15) of the New Testament and the Reward is as follows:
“… But as it is written: “Eye has not seen, nor ear heard, Nor have entered into the heart of man The things which God has prepared for those who love Him.” ….” (1 Corinthians 2:9, NKJV)
If we really love Christ much, we must “feed and tend” His Sheep meaning that we must practice the ‘Charity Doctrine’ of Sharing and Giving with them as the First Apostolic Church did (e.g. Acts 2:44 – 46, Acts 4:32) and feed them with “His New Testament Commands” fulfilling the “Great Commission’s Teaching them to observe all that I Commanded you part” as these Beautiful Verses of Christ to Peter agrees likewise:
“… 15So when they had eaten breakfast, JESUS SAID to Simon Peter, “Simon, son of [b]Jonah, DO YOU LOVE ME MORE THAN THESE?” He said to Him, “Yes, Lord; You know that I [c]love You.” He said to him, “FEED MY LAMBS.” 16He said to him again a second time, “Simon, son of [d]Jonah, DO YOU LOVE ME?” He said to Him, “Yes, Lord; You know that I [e]love You.” He said to him, “TEND MY SHEEP.” 17He said to him the third time, “Simon, son of [f]Jonah, DO YOU [G]LOVE ME?” Peter was grieved because He said to him the third time, “Do you love Me?” And he said to Him, “Lord, You know all things; You know that I love You.” JESUS SAID TO HIM, “FEED MY SHEEP. …” (John 21:15 – 17, NKJV)
Peace to you
Gifts of God and the Greatest Gift Mystery
Christ Did Signs but He never preferred those who look for it, Verses:
“… 11Then the Pharisees came out and began to dispute with Him, SEEKING FROM HIM A SIGN FROM HEAVEN, testing Him. 12But HE SIGHED DEEPLY IN HIS SPIRIT, and said, “Why does this generation seek a sign? Assuredly, I say to you, no sign shall be given to this generation.” … 13And He left them, and getting into the boat again, departed to the other side. … 22Then He came to Bethsaida; and they brought a blind man to Him, and begged Him to touch him. 23So He took the blind man by the hand and led him out of the town. And when He had spit on his eyes and put His hands on him, He asked him if he saw anything. 24And he looked up and said, “I see men like trees, walking.” 25Then He put His hands on his eyes again and made him look up. And he was restored and saw everyone clearly. 26Then He sent him away to his house, SAYING, [D]“NEITHER GO INTO THE TOWN, NOR TELL ANYONE IN THE TOWN.” …” (Mark 8:11, 13, 22 – 26, NKJV)
Conclusion
God knows that some Christianity is entirely based on ‘healing Testimony’ or equivalent without which they won’t believe, Verse:
“… 48Then JESUS SAID to him, “Unless you people see signs and wonders, you will by no means believe.”… 54This again is the SECOND SIGN JESUS DID when He had come out of Judea into Galilee …” (John 4:48, 54, NKJV)
The Verse above clearly proves that Christ prefers those who can believe without any signs and wonders.
Example: In Verses below, the gift of Teaching is a more important gift than miracles or healings, Verses:
“… 27Now you are the body of Christ, and members individually. 28And God has appointed these in the church: first apostles, second prophets, third teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of healings, helps, administrations, varieties of tongues. 29Are all apostles? Are all prophets? Are all teachers? Are all workers of miracles? 30Do all have gifts of healings? Do all speak with tongues? Do all interpret? 31But earnestly desire the [i]best gifts. And yet I show you a more excellent way. …” (1 Corinthians 12:27 – 31, NKJV)
When these gifts are compared in the Bible Verses above, the hierarchy of importance is as follows:
1. Apostles
2. Prophets
3. Teachers
4. Miracles
5. Gift of Healings
6. Helps
7. Administrations
8. Varieties of Tongues
But Apostle St. Paul ends the Verses above Mysteriously hinting on an even more “excellent way” than these gifts namely the “Gift of Agape” as it’s described in the next chapter where if anyone can have the “Love of God” like that in Word, Action and Intention truly, he has attained the Greatest Gift of All, these Verses:
“… 1Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I have become sounding brass or a clanging cymbal. 2And though I have the gift of prophecy, and understand all mysteries and all knowledge, and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, but have not love, I am nothing. 3And though I bestow all my goods to feed the poor, and though I give my body [a]to be burned, but have not love, it profits me nothing. 4Love suffers long and is kind; love does not envy; love does not parade itself, is not [b]puffed up; 5does not behave rudely, does not seek its own, is not provoked, [c]thinks no evil; 6does not rejoice in iniquity, but rejoices in the truth; 7bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. 8Love never fails. But whether there are prophecies, they will fail; whether there are tongues, they will cease; whether there is knowledge, it will vanish away. 9For we know in part and we prophesy in part. 10But when that which is [d]perfect has come, then that which is in part will be done away.11When I was a child, I spoke as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child; but when I became a man, I put away childish things. 12For now we see in a mirror, dimly, but then face to face. Now I know in part, but then I shall know just as I also am known. 13And now abide FAITH, HOPE, LOVE, THESE THREE; but the GREATEST OF THESE IS LOVE. …” (1 Corinthians 13:1 – 13, NKJV)
Now isn’t “Love in Action” (the Greatest Gift in Action) the “Charity Doctrine”? Verses:
“… 29Jesus answered him, “The [k]first of all the commandments is: ‘Hear, O Israel, the Lord our God, the Lord is one. 30And you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your mind, and with all your strength.’ [l]This is the first commandment. 31And the second, like it, is this: ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is NO OTHER COMMANDMENT GREATER THAN THESE.” …” (Mark 12:29 – 31, NKJV)
How is this Greatest Gift Seen in Action? Verses point to the “Charity Doctrine” without which no one can fulfill the First Greatest Commandment even without “loving others”, Verses:
“… 20If someone says, “I love God,” and hates his brother, he is a liar; for he who does not love his brother whom he has seen, [d]how can he love God whom he has not seen? 21And this commandment we have from Him: that he who loves God must love his brother also. …” (1 John 4:20 – 21, NKJV)
“… 16By this WE KNOW LOVE, because He laid down His life for us. And we also ought to lay down our lives for the brethren. 17But WHOEVER HAS THIS WORLD’S GOODS, AND SEES HIS BROTHER IN NEED, and shuts up his heart from him, HOW DOES THE LOVE OF GOD ABIDE in HIM? 18My little children, let us not LOVE IN WORD OR IN TONGUE, but IN DEED AND IN TRUTH. …” (1 John 3:16 – 18, NKJV)
Comment: The phrase “… 17But WHOEVER HAS THIS WORLD’S GOODS, AND SEES HIS BROTHER IN NEED, and shuts up his heart from him, HOW DOES THE LOVE OF GOD ABIDE in HIM? …” Implies that 1 Corinthians 13’s Greatest Gift cannot be found in People who do this and is found most in People who fulfill one another’s need via giving/sharing with each other “as it is Written”.
Peace to you
Heart and Denial Mystery – Christ the Creator Himself Taught that the Heart 💖 is where our Treasure is
Only the Creator of the Heart knows the matters of the Heart. Therefore let’s read these Bible Verses which Speak of the heart directly and are by Christ Himself:
1) We either store treasures on earth or in heaven or both
“… 19“Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal; 20but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. 21FOR WHERE YOUR TREASURE IS, THERE YOUR HEART WILL BE ALSO. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 6:19 – 21, NKJV)
2) The more we hoard on earth, the lesser we have in Heaven. The more we Give to Charity the Greater our Treasure in the heavens and vice versa
“… 31“But SEEK HIS KINGDOM, and THESE THINGS will be ADDED TO YOU. 32“Do not be afraid, little flock, for your Father has chosen gladly to give you the kingdom. 33“SELL YOUR POSSESSIONS and GIVE TO CHARITY; make yourselves money belts which do not wear out, an UNFAILING TREASURE IN HEAVEN, where no thief comes near nor moth destroys. 34“FOR WHERE YOUR TREASURE IS, THERE YOUR HEART WILL BE ALSO. 35“Be dressed in readiness, and KEEP YOUR LAMPS LIT. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 12:31 – 35, NASB)
Please notice the phrase “… FOR WHERE YOUR TREASURE IS, THERE YOUR HEART WILL BE ALSO …” which is found in both Verses above (Matthew 6:19 – 21 and Luke 12:31 – 35) which links these two in the same Context.
Conclusion
Are these the ones who are “pure” in “heart” and after cleansing who will “See God”?
“… Blessed are the pure in heart, For they shall see God. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 5:8, NKJV)
We are busy cleaning our Outside which is Good. But the more important Cleanliness of “our heart” can only be done by “Charity/Alms” as Christ Himself Revealed in Verses below:
“… (39Then the Lord said to him), “Now you Pharisees make the outside of the cup and dish clean, but your INWARD part is full of GREED and WICKEDNESS. 40Foolish ones! Did not He who made the outside make the INSIDE also? 41But rather GIVE ALMS [CHARITY] of SUCH THINGS AS YOU HAVE; then indeed ALL THINGS are CLEAN to you. . …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 11:39 – 41, NKJV)
In Christ’s Direct Words above, it’s clear that the “Charity Doctrine” is closely linked to the “Cleansing of the Heart”. If our hearts are unclean, can we Enter Heaven?
“… 19Whoever therefore breaks one of the least of these commandments, and teaches men so, shall be called least in the kingdom of heaven; but whoever does and teaches them, he shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven. 20For I say to you, that UNLESS YOUR RIGHTEOUSNESS EXCEEDS THE RIGHTEOUSNESS OF THE SCRIBES AND PHARISEES, YOU WILL BY NO MEANS ENTER THE KINGDOM OF HEAVEN. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 5:19 – 20, NKJV)
I personally believe that Verses which are directly Spoken by Christ or that which Christ Commanded through His Apostles (1 Corinthians 14:37, 2 Peter 3:2) should have utmost importance to any Christian. Please consider these Great Denial Verses:
“… 14Because narrow is the gate and difficult is the way which leads to life, and there are few who find it. … 21“Not everyone WHO SAYS TO ME, ‘LORD, LORD,’ shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who DOES THE WILL OF MY FATHER in heaven. 22MANY will say to Me in that day, ‘Lord, Lord, have we NOT PROPHESIED in Your name, CAST OUT DEMONS in Your name, and DONE MANY WONDERS in Your name?’ 23And then I will declare to them, ‘I never knew you; depart from Me, YOU WHO PRACTICE LAWLESSNESS!’. 24“Therefore WHOEVER HEARS THESE SAYINGS OF MINE, and DOES THEM, I will liken him to a WISE MAN who BUILT HIS HOUSE ON THE ROCK: …” – Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 7:14, 21 – 24, NKJV)
Did you notice that the acts of casting out of Demons, Prophesying and doing other wonders as done by MANY (not few, shocked Christian Converts) is not considered as obedience if “Lawlessness” is present?
The “Lawlessness” which is referred to in the Great Denial Verses above is anything where we do “not” follow Christ’s Own Words upon which only the House on the Rock is Built as Christ Himself explains in Verse above which is further explained by the Luke Verses below as both relate to the Same Context of “… Lord, Lord …” Utterance by those denied who did “not” build the “House on the Rock” by “obeying what Christ Commanded”:
“… 46“But why do you CALL ME ‘LORD, LORD,’ AND NOT DO THE THINGS WHICH I SAY? 47Whoever comes to Me, and HEARS MY SAYINGS AND DOES THEM, I will show you whom he is like: 48He is like a man building a house, who dug deep and LAID THE FOUNDATION ON THE ROCK. And when the flood arose, the stream beat vehemently against that house, and could not shake it, for it was [j]founded on the rock. 49But he who heard and did nothing is like a man who built a house on the earth without a foundation, against which the stream beat vehemently; and immediately it [k]fell. And the ruin of that house was great.” …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 6:46 – 49, NKJV)
This “obeying what Christ Commanded” in New Testament Verses to “build the house on the Rock” is what relates to the Great Commission part of “… Teaching them to observe all that I Command you …” Part, Verses:
“… 18And Jesus came and spoke to them, saying, “All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. 19Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20TEACHING THEM TO OBSERVE ALL THINGS THAT I HAVE COMMANDED YOU; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” Amen. …” (Matthew 28:18 – 20, NKJV)
Peace to you
What is Deception?
Not Doing what Christ Commanded in New Testament Verses. Yes, “… Observe all that I Command you …” part of the Great Commission (Matthew 28:20) is least Preached, Believed or Done.
Peace to you
How is God Fair to All? A Beautiful Biblical Truth regarding “Relative Measure”
Related Bible Verses:
1) Relative Measure comes in where more is given, more is required:
“… Therefore, to him who knows to do good and does not do it, to him it is sin. …” (James 4:17, NKJV)
2) God Counts based on what’s Given to us first making it Fair for All
“… 1And He looked up and saw the rich putting their gifts into the treasury, 2and He saw also a certain poor widow putting in two mites. 3So He [The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ] said, “Truly I say to you that this poor widow has put in MORE THAN ALL; 4for all these out of their abundance have put in offerings for God, but she out of HER POVERTY put in ALL THE LIVELIHOOD THAT SHE HAD. …” (Luke 21:1 – 4, NKJV)
3) God has Expectations based on what’s Given and Judges accordingly
“… 46the master of that servant will come on a day when he is not looking for him, and at an hour when he is not aware, and will cut him in two and appoint him his portion with the unbelievers. 47And that servant who KNEW HIS MASTER’S WILL, and did not prepare himself or do according to his will, shall be BEATEN WITH MANY STRIPES. But he who DID NOT KNOW, yet committed things deserving of stripes, shall be BEATEN WITH FEW. For EVERYONE to whom MUCH IS GIVEN, from him MUCH WILL BE REQUIRED; and to whom MUCH HAS BEEN COMMITTED, of him they WILL ASK THE MORE. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 12:46 – 48, NKJV)
4) Everything will be Calculated out fairly even if you were not given the opportunity to be “hired” for ministry fully like others
“… 7They said to him, ‘Because NO ONE HIRED US.’ He said to them, ‘You also go into the vineyard, [b]and WHATEVER IS RIGHT YOU WILL RECEIVE.’ 8“So when evening had come, the owner of the vineyard said to his steward, ‘Call the laborers and give them their wages, BEGINNING WITH THE LAST TO THE FIRST.’ 9And when those came who were hired about the eleventh hour, they each received a denarius. 10But when the first came, they supposed that they would receive more; and they likewise received each a denarius. 11And when they had received it, they [c]complained against the landowner, 12saying, ‘THESE LAST MEN HAVE WORKED ONLY ONE HOUR, and you made them EQUAL TO US who have borne the burden and the heat of the day.’ 13But he answered one of them and said, ‘Friend, I am doing you no wrong. Did you not agree with me for a denarius? 14Take what is yours and go your way. I WISH TO GIVE TO THIS LAST MAN THE SAME AS TO YOU. 15Is it not lawful for me to do what I wish with my own things? Or is your eye evil because I am good?’ 16So the LAST WILL BE FIRST, AND THE FIRST LAST. For[d] many are called, but FEW CHOSEN.” …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 20:7 – 16, NKJV)
Please notice the phrases “… Because NO ONE HIRED US.’ …” (Race/human discrimination factors) + “… WHATEVER IS RIGHT YOU WILL RECEIVE.’ …” (According to relative Measure and not unfair wages simply) + “… THESE LAST MEN HAVE WORKED ONLY ONE HOUR, and you made them EQUAL TO US …” (Relative measure) + “… 16So the LAST WILL BE FIRST, AND THE FIRST LAST. …”
Peace to you
How to follow the Example of the Lord by Polycarp
“… 1 STAND FAST THEREFORE IN THESE THINGS and FOLLOW THE EXAMPLE OF THE LORD, “firm and unchangeable in faith, loving the brotherhood, affectionate to one another,” joined together in the truth, forestalling one another in the gentleness of the Lord, despising no man. 2 When you can do good defer it not, “FOR ALMSGIVING SETS FREE FROM DEATH; be ye all subject one to the other, having your conversation blameless among the Gentiles,” that you may receive praise “FOR YOUR GOOD WORKS” and that the Lord be not blasphemed in you. 3 “But woe to him through whom the name of the Lord is blasphemed.” Therefore teach sobriety to all and show it forth in your own lives. …” – Blessed St. Polycarp, Bishop of Smryna, an Apostolic Father being the Disciple of the Blessed St. John the Apostle who wrote the Book of Revelation (c. 69 AD – c. 155 AD, Chapter 10, THE EPISTLE OF POLYCARP TO THE PHILIPPIANS)
Source:
http://www.earlychristianwritings.com/text/polycarp-lake.html
Peace to you
Bible Example: Blessed Job was “Cacophonous” but it didn’t matter to God at all
Source Post:
https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=10160646371202784&id=651792783
Meaning?
“Cacophonous” means “having an unpleasant mixture of sounds” according to a dictionary in link below:
https://www.google.com/amp/s/dictionary.cambridge.org/amp/english/cacophonous
Christian scholars often quote the Biblical Example of Blessed Job himself who was God’s Favourite Righteous Man but who also had some possible “Cacophonous” words which didn’t alter God’s Love for him agreeing with St. Jerome’s quote in image because Blessed Job was a “King of Good Works”.
Yes, it’s “Biblical” and Blessed Job was one of the most Righteous men to walk the earth and was one of God’s Favourite and though he was rich he was “full of the Charity Doctrine”, Verses:
“… 16“If I have kept the POOR from their desire,
Or caused the eyes of the WIDOW to fail,
17Or EATEN MY MORSEL BY MYSELF,
So that the FATHERLESS could not eat of it
18(But from my youth I REARED HIM AS A FATHER,
And from my mother’s womb I GUIDED [D]THE WIDOW);
19If I have seen ANYONE PERISH FOR LACK OF CLOTHING,
Or ANY POOR MAN WITHOUT COVERING;
20If his [e]heart has not blessed me,
And if he was not WARMED WITH THE FLEECE OF MY SHEEP;
21If I have RAISED MY HAND AGAINST THE FATHERLESS,
When I saw I had help in the gate;
22Then let my arm fall from my shoulder,
Let my arm be torn from the socket.
23For destruction from God is a terror to me,
And because of His magnificence I cannot endure. …” (Job 31:16 – 23, NKJV)
This is how God Responded in the End toward Blessed Job despite his “Cacophonous” words of self exaltation of his good works in Bible Verses above, to quote:
“… 7And so it was, after the Lord had spoken these words to Job, that the Lord said to Eliphaz the Temanite, “My wrath is aroused against you and your two friends, for you have not spoken of Me what is right, as My servant Job has. 8Now therefore, take for yourselves seven bulls and seven rams, go to My servant Job, and offer up for yourselves a burnt offering; and My servant Job shall pray for you. For I will accept [b]him, lest I deal with you according to your folly; because you have not spoken of Me what is right, as My servant Job has.” …” (Job 42:7 – 9, NKJV)
Conclusion
An ancient heretic by the name of Jovinianus proposed that all rewards are equal to the saved in the heavens giving “no” motivation for “Good Works Doctrine” which was Biblically refuted by St. Jerome as follows:
“… The fourth proposition of Jovinianus, that all who are saved will have equal reward, is refuted (19) by the various yields of thirty, sixty, and a hundred fold in the parable of the sower, by (20) the “stars differing in glory” of 1 Cor. xv. 41. It is strange (21) to find the advocate of self-indulgence now claiming equality to the saints. But (22) as there were differences in Ezekiel between cattle and cattle, so in St. Paul between those who built gold or stubble on the one foundation. The differences of gifts (23), of punishments (24), of guilt (25), as in Pilate and the Chief Priests, of the produce of the good seed (26), of the mansions promised in heaven (27–29), of the judgment upon sins both in the church and in Scripture (30–31), of those called at different times to the vineyard (32) are arguments for the diversity of rewards. The parable of the talents (33) holds out as rewards differences of station, and so does the church (34) in its different orders. …” – Blessed St. Jerome of the Vulgate, Doctor of the Church who did the First Official Translation of the Bible out of Its Original Languages into Latin, Priest, Confessor, Secretary to Pope Damasus I (c. 347 AD – c. 420 AD, Commentary on Matthew 25:1 – 13’s Parable of the Five Wise/Foolish Virgins in Catena Aurea)
Source (via the Famous Protestant Historian Mr. Philip Schaff, Book II, Jerome answers the second, third, and fourth propositions of Jovinian):
https://ccel.org/ccel/schaff/npnf206/npnf206.vi.vi.II.html
Christ Emphasized on levels of righteousness (e.g. “least” and “greatest”) within the Kingdom of Heaven itself proving varying rewards and the importance of one’s own righteousness too to enter Heaven type of reward, Bible Verse:
“…19Whoever therefore breaks one of the least of these commandments, and teaches men so, shall be called least in the kingdom of heaven; but whoever does and teaches them, he shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven. 20For I say to you, that UNLESS YOUR RIGHTEOUSNESS EXCEEDS THE RIGHTEOUSNESS OF THE SCRIBES AND PHARISEES, YOU WILL BY NO MEANS ENTER THE KINGDOM OF HEAVEN. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 5:19 – 20, NKJV)
Peace to you
Following Christ is not following a Particular Church or Denomination
Following Christ is to accept different denominations though they don’t “follow Christ with us in our denomination or Church”. I believe that denominations can err but are still Christians across various Churches (despite errors which only differentiate rewards but not Salvation as per Matthew 5:19) which are mixed with lawless Christians too (who are ‘unsaved’, e.g. Matthew 7:20 – 23) which God Will separate in the Future when He Returns.
“… 38Now John answered Him, saying, “Teacher, we saw someone who does not follow us casting out demons in Your name, and we forbade him because HE DOES NOT FOLLOW US.” 39But JESUS SAID, “DO NOT FORBID HIM, for no one who works a miracle in My name can soon afterward speak evil of Me. 40For he who is not against [g]us is on [h]our side. …” (Mark 9:38 – 40, NKJV)
Conclusion – Did First Christianity understand it likewise?
Especially in the Context of differing in beliefs regarding “Future Prophecies” (e.g. Eternal Hell Vs Christ Centered Universalism Vs Annihilation), such differences did “not” make anyone a heretic as the example below of ‘those who believe that the 1000 years Millennial Reign is in the future’ (e.g. St. Justin Martyr, St. Papias & all of First Christianity except a few & I believe in this likewise too) Vs ‘those who believe it’s happening now’ (e.g. St. Augustine, possibly Martin Luther, Preterists, Roman Catholics today etc.) is compared as follows by St. Justin himself, to quote:
“… I admitted to you formerly, that I and many others are of this opinion, and [believe] that such will take place [referring to the future Millennial Reign Doctrine]*, as you assuredly are aware; but, on the other hand, I signified to you that many who belong to the pure and pious faith, and are true Christians, think otherwise. …” – Blessed St. Justin Martyr (c. 100AD – c. 160 AD, Dialogue with Trypho the Jew, Chapter 110)
Source:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Millennialism
*Emphasis Mine
My position is same as Blessed St. Justin Martyr as per 1 Corinthians 4:5 regarding “judge nothing before its time” in the Context of ‘future prophecies’ where I do not condemn any Christian who differs in belief from me.
Blessed St. Justin Martyr affirms that this is not his opinion but is held by “right-minded Christians on all points” regarding the Millennialism Doctrine, to quote:
“… But I and others, who are right-minded Christians on all points, are assured that there will be a resurrection of the dead, and a thousand years in Jerusalem, which will then be built, adorned, and enlarged, the prophets Ezekiel and Isaiah and others declare. For Isaiah spake thus concerning this space of a thousand years: ‘For there shall be the new heaven and the new earth, and the former shall not be remembered, or come into their heart; but they shall find joy and gladness in it, which things I create’…For as Adam was told that in the day he ate of the tree he would die, we know that he did not complete a thousand years. We have perceived, moreover, that the expression, ‘The day of the Lord is as a thousand years,’ is connected with this subject [2 Peter 3:8, Psalm 90:4]. And further, there was a certain man with us, whose name was John, one of the apostles of Christ, who prophesied, by a revelation that was made to him, THAT THOSE WHO BELIEVED IN OUR CHRIST would dwell a THOUSAND YEARS in Jerusalem [Revelation 20:4 – 10]; and that thereafter the general, and, in short, the eternal resurrection and judgment of all men would likewise take place [Revelation 20:11 – 15]. Just as our Lord also said, ‘They shall neither marry nor be given in marriage, but shall be equal to the angels, the children of the God of the resurrection. [Luke 20:35 – 36] …” – Blessed St. Justin Martyr, a Great Early Christian Apologist who is a Foremost Exponent of the Divine Word, who Influenced Virtually all of subsequent Christian philosophy and Catholic theology, Martyr for Christ (c. 100AD – c. 160 AD, Dialogue with Trypho the Jew, CHAPTER LXXXI)
Source:
http://www.earlychristianwritings.com/text/justinmartyr-dialoguetrypho.html
P/S: Who believed the same as St. Justin Martyr in First Christianity?
“… Millennialism was taught by various earlier writers such as Justin Martyr, Irenaeus, Tertullian, Commodian, Lactantius, Methodius, and Apollinaris of Laodicea in a form now called premillennialism.[9] According to religious scholar Rev. Dr. Francis Nigel Lee,[10] “Justin’s ‘Occasional Chiliasm’ sui generis which was strongly anti-pretribulationistic was followed possibly by Pothinus in A.D. 175 and more probably (around 185) by Irenaeus”. … Melito of Sardis is frequently listed as a second century proponent of premillennialism.[12] The support usually given for the supposition is that “Jerome [Comm. on Ezek. 36] and Gennadius [De Dogm. Eccl., Ch. 52] both affirm that he was a decided millenarian.”[13] In the early third century, Hippolytus of Rome … Around 220, there were some similar influences on Tertullian, although only with very important and extremely optimistic (if not perhaps even postmillennial) modifications and implications. On the other hand, “Christian Chiliastic” ideas were indeed advocated in 240 by Commodian; in 250 by the Egyptian Bishop Nepos in his Refutation of Allegorists; in 260 by the almost unknown Coracion; and in 310 by Lactantius. Into the late fourth century, Bishop Ambrose of Milan had millennial leanings (Ambrose of Milan. Book II. On the Belief in the Resurrection, verse 108). Lactantius is the last great literary defender of chiliasm in the early Christian church. …”
Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Millennialism
Peace to you
True Family is not by Blood but by Faith
Few “Follow Christ” in this aspect where Christ Didn’t put “His Family First” but considered whoever that does the “Will of God” as “His Family Equally”, Verse:
“… 46While He was still talking to the multitudes, behold, His mother and brothers stood outside, seeking to speak with Him. 47Then one said to Him, “Look, Your mother and Your brothers are standing outside, seeking to speak with You.” 48But He answered and said to the one who told Him, “Who is My mother and who are My brothers?” 49And He stretched out His hand toward His disciples and said, “Here are My mother and My brothers!
For whoever does the will of My Father in heaven is My brother and sister and mother. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 12:46 – 49, NKJV)
Example: Suppose a person has a blood brother who does “no” ministry toward others: for example “not” serving in Church or “not” doing any “Charity Doctrine” but lives/works for himself or for his father/mother only (that is those who love him only). In comparison, imagine having another person who helps in ministry by bringing souls to be baptized, edifies them by preaching the Gospel and also practices the Charity Doctrines of Christ not toward his own blood relations only but toward others too. Which one is Doing the Will of God?
i) The first type of love is one that is done with evil intentions or with fakeness to get favours or attention
Bible Verses describing this:
“… 6Thou shalt not wrest the judgment of thy poor in his cause. 7Keep thee far from a false matter; and the innocent and righteous slay thou not: for I will not justify the wicked. 8And THOU SHALT TAKE NO GIFT: FOR THE GIFT BLINDETH THE WISE, and PERVERTETH THE WORDS OF THE RIGHTEOUS. …” (Exodus 23:6 – 8, KJV)
The “Gift” referred to in Verses above are the type which is like a bribe. For example: A person who intends to slander someone gives gifts to the person whom he is trying to convince in order that the deceived person will be on his side. Politics is often a good example of this as Charity Acts are done to obtain other favours or to convince people that they’re good when they’re not (in some cases).
Such seek attention or plot revenge secretly especially when they have been exposed doing some evil and thus seek to take revenge on someone who has corrected them by doing these seemingly good works which are insincere because if you observe carefully, it never existed with them in the beginning itself. So please be careful of sudden gifts or changes like that where if sincere it could be a sign of repentance but if not, it can be a manipulation for attention or in obtaining some other favour or a plot of revenge to separate others as described.
Another example: A person does good and advertises it to get others to think that he is good or to obtain some favours which Christ Warned against as the attitude of the Pharisees as follows:
“… Take heed that you do not do your charitable deeds before men, to be seen by them. Otherwise you have no reward from your Father in heaven. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 6:1, NKJV)
Some seek to “impress the opposite gender” in hope to get a girlfriend/boyfriend by doing these things in “public” in an attempt to show that they’re so concerned about giving gifts or doing good in an attempt to convince someone that they’re interested in regarding how much more they’re going to take care of their boyfriend/girlfriend. Christians ought not to be carried away by such worldly impressions which have “no” eternal value of any sort & it’s so fake due to the hidden/unconfessed fleshy desires they have in secret (i.e. for example, physical intimacy or monetary gain being aimed at via Marriage too at times).
People who wish to Impress God with Good Works are Wise and it can be Done as follows which Alone has “Eternal” Value and is “True”, Verse:
“… that your charitable deed may be in secret; and your Father who sees in secret will Himself reward you openly. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 6:4, NKJV)
There is “no” such thing as marrying without the intention of having sex as some fake worldly quotes ring. If it’s not about having sex, then one can love the person without marrying itself. The only extra thing marriage brings is physical intimacy (or sex) which makes it lower in value than a love of a friend (e.g. John 15:13 – 14) which has no such intentions or need as the Bible Verses Below describe this Truth literally:
a) Marriage is for sex
“… 7For I wish that all men were even as I myself. But each one has his own gift from God, one in this manner and another in that. 8But I say to the unmarried and to the widows: It is good for them if they remain even as I am; 9but if they cannot exercise self-control, let them marry. For it is better to marry than to burn with passion. …” (1 Corinthians 7:7 – 9, NKJV)
Please note carefully that the purpose of marriage includes this: “… 9but if they cannot exercise self-control, let them marry. …” = i.e. Marry if you cannot exercise self-control and need to have sex. It’s nothing wrong to say so being honest about it. What is wrong is “acting” like they didn’t marry for sex and it was never a reason for marriage it seems, that’s what a “lie” is against this Verse.
b) Not Marrying is better than Marrying to Serve God in every other aspect
Yes, Marrying is “Good” but not Marrying is “Better”, Verse:
“… 38So then he who GIVES [F]HER IN MARRIAGE DOES WELL, but he who DOES NOT GIVE HER IN MARRIAGE DOES BETTER. …” (1 Corinthians 7:38, NKJV)
One of the “Seven Abominations” includes people who “sow discord among brethren” (i.e. say or do things to separate people):
“… 16These six things the Lord hates,
Yes, seven are an abomination to [h]Him: … 19A false witness who speaks lies,
And one who sows discord among brethren. …” (Proverbs 6:16, 19, NKJV)
A Good Self-Check would be this: If I have not done that same thing which I expect from a friend/relative/family to do to me first, then how can I judge that person for not doing it? In other words, if we have not done it toward a friend/relative/family, then we don’t need to expect that same Family/Friend/Relative to do it toward us either. Understanding this causes us “not” to judge anyone who didn’t do something good toward us and puts us in Contentment of “not” expecting anything to be done to us keeping our relationship “sincere”.
ii) The second type of family love or equivalent is described as follows
“… And if you do good to those who do good to you, what credit is that to you? For even sinners do the same …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 6:33, NKJV)
“… But if you love those who love you, what credit is that to you? For even sinners love those who love them. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 6:32, NKJV)
“… Then He also said to him who invited Him, “When you give a dinner or a supper, do not ask your friends, your brothers, your relatives, nor rich neighbors, lest they also invite you back, and you be repaid. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 14:12, NKJV)
iii) The third type is what Doing the Will of God is in terms of “Love”
“… 13Greater love has no one than this, than to lay down one’s life for his friends. 14You are My friends if you do whatever I command you. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (John 15:13 – 14, NKJV)
Yes, the hardest type of Love to Fulfill is when Christ Commanded to do Good even toward enemies who “… Use us …” (So it’s a good thing if we allow ourselves to be used by others for their benefits be it financially or materialistically too according to Christ Himself in the Verses below Describing the Perfection of God which is the Ultimate Example):
“… 44[o]But I say to you, love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you, 45that you may be sons of your Father in heaven; for He makes His sun rise on the evil and on the good, and sends rain on the just and on the unjust. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 5:44 – 45, NKJV)
To keep away from ‘believers’ (even if he is your own father or brother) who don’t practice these is justified by Scripture:
“… 6But we COMMAND you, brethren, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that you withdraw from every brother who walks disorderly and NOT ACCORDING TO THE TRADITION which [a]he received from us. 7For you yourselves know how you ought to follow us, for we were not disorderly among you . …14And IF ANYONE DOES NOT OBEY OUR WORD IN THIS [D]EPISTLE, note that person and DO NOT KEEP COMPANY WITH HIM, that he may be ashamed. 15Yet do not count him as an enemy, but [e]admonish him as a brother. …” (2 Thessalonians 3:6 – 7, 14 – 15, NKJV)
Peace to you
Mysteries of the Sufferings of Christ, Charity Doctrine as a Will of God and Mysterious First Christianity Hope for Sinners
Bible Verses:
“… 12Beloved, do not think it strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened to you; 13but REJOICE to THE EXTENT THAT YOU PARTAKE of CHRIST’S SUFFERINGS, that when His glory is revealed, you may also be glad with exceeding joy. 14If you are [e]REPROACHED FOR THE NAME OF CHRIST, BLESSED ARE YOU, for THE SPIRIT OF GLORY AND OF GOD rests upon you. [f]On their part He is blasphemed, but on your part He is glorified. 15But let none of you suffer as a murderer, a thief, an evildoer, or as a [g]busybody in other people’s matters. 16Yet IF ANYONE SUFFERS AS A CHRISTIAN, let him not be ashamed, but let him glorify God in this [h]matter. 17For the time has come for judgment to begin at the house of God; and if it begins with us first, what will be the end of those who do not obey the gospel of God? 18Now “If the righteous one is scarcely saved, Where will the ungodly and the sinner appear?” 19Therefore LET THOSE WHO SUFFER ACCORDING TO THE WILL OF GOD COMMIT THEIR SOULS TO HIM IN DOING GOOD, as to a faithful Creator. …” (1 Peter 4:12 – 19, NKJV)
The “Sufferings of Christ” mentioned in 1 Peter 4:13 is not living & seeking some Prosperity Gospel but must be a “Suffering” willingly chosen and lived to “obey the Gospel of Christ” as a “Christian” (1 Peter 4:16 – 17) where 1 Peter 4:19 clearly defines this “Will of God” to refer to “Doing Good” where we know that “Doing Good” certainly includes the “Charity Doctrine” which is nothing else than “Love/Prayer in Action & not in words only” as these Verses (next) Correlate in the “Context of Judgment of the House of God” too:
“… 12So speak and so do as those who will be judged by the law of liberty. 13For JUDGMENT IS WITHOUT MERCY to the one who has SHOWN NO MERCY. MERCY TRIUMPHS OVER JUDGMENT. 14What does it profit, my brethren, if someone says he HAS FAITH BUT DOES NOT HAVE WORKS? CAN FAITH SAVE HIM? 15If a brother or sister is naked and destitute of daily food, 16and 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? 17Thus also FAITH BY ITSELF, IF IT DOES NOT HAVE WORKS, IS DEAD. …” (James 2:12 – 17, NKJV)
i) Pointless Faith
Some of those Christians Judged by the Law of Liberty for “praying only in words” and ‘not Doing the Charity Doctrine of meeting the physical needs of others’ especially poorer Christians.
Praying in Words only part = “… If a brother or sister is naked and destitute of daily food, 16and one of you says to them, “Depart in peace, be warmed and filled,” …”.
Pointless Faith part: “… 14WHAT DOES IT PROFIT, my brethren, if someone says he HAS FAITH BUT DOES NOT HAVE WORKS? CAN FAITH SAVE HIM? 15If a brother or sister is NAKED and DESTITUTE OF DAILY FOOD, 16and 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? …” (James 2:14 – 16).
In other words, “a faith” without a Charity Doctrine lifestyle of specifically providing for the “things which are needed for the body” (i.e. physical and material needs, yes ‘needs not wants, and not prosperity or unfair gifts/or over giving to those whose needs are already met’) does “not save”.
It is to such a faith, the Bible Verse Asks, “… DOES NOT HAVE WORKS … CAN FAITH SAVE HIM? …” Did you notice that the “works” referred to are specifically referring to the “Charity Doctrine Works” only (Context in these Verses)? Perhaps missing on other works can cause “Lawlessness” (such as not keeping with Holiness Commands) but Holiness without the Charity Doctrine Work also yields a shipwreck faith according to these Verses. Can you see it “as it is Written”?
ii) Saving Faith
The Christians who do the Will of God for the “Works of Faith” do the “Charity Doctrine or Prayer in Action” part too.
Almsgiving as Prayer in Action part is implied in CONTRAST to these Verses which can be understood as the “Saving Faith”: “… 15If a brother or sister is naked and destitute of daily food, 16and 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? …” (James 2:15 – 16). Can you see it?
The CONTRAST to those Verses Reveals the “Saving Faith” as follows: “… 15If a brother or sister is naked and destitute of daily food, 16and one of you does NOT say to them, “Depart in peace, be warmed and filled,” but GIVES them the things which are needed for the body, WOULDN’T it PROFIT? …”.
iii) Christian Judgment
Christians or the “House of God” are Judged according to whether they “obey the Gospel” (1 Peter 4:17) under the “Law of Liberty” primarily as to whether or not they did the “Acts of Mercy” toward the poor & needy as James 2:12 – 17 clearly Reveals this Context Clearly:
Judgment of Christians and beyond: “… 12So speak and so do as those who will be judged by the law of liberty. 13For JUDGMENT IS WITHOUT MERCY to the one who has SHOWN NO MERCY. MERCY TRIUMPHS OVER JUDGMENT. …”. (James 2:12 -13)
iv) Three Categories of Men possibility – the Righteous (Christians), Sinners and the Ungodly (Wicked).
“… 18Now “If the RIGHTEOUS one is scarcely saved, Where will the UNGODLY and the SINNER appear?” …” (1 Peter 4:18)
There is a school of thought in Christianity where the sinners may be saved after Judgment but the wicked (Ungodly) stay in Hell Forever if the origin word Olam (Hebrew) or Aion (Koine Greek) means eternal instead of age-during (of which meaning God Alone Decides). These sinners may be the ones Saved after the last penny Judgment Sentences (e.g. Matthew 5:22 – 26) on Judgment Day.
These Bible Verses below is a Famous Example of where God Pours out “All His Fierce Wrath” which in the end produces some/all of the recipients to be “converted” to Him echoing such a Possible Hope because He Only Pours All His Wrath as Described below on Judgment Day:
“… 8“Therefore wait for Me,” says the Lord,
“Until the day I rise up [d]for plunder;
My determination is to GATHER THE NATIONS
To My assembly of kingdoms,
To pour on them My indignation,
ALL MY FIERCE ANGER;
All the earth shall be devoured
With the fire of My jealousy.
9“For then I WILL RESTORE TO THE PEOPLES a PURE [E]LANGUAGE,
That THEY ALL MAY CALL ON THE NAME of the LORD, To SERVE HIM WITH ONE ACCORD. …” (Zephaniah 3:8 – 9, NKJV)
Comment: Please take note that the Bible’s Zephaniah 3:8 – 10’s “Judgment Day” Salvation for some or all is clear in Verses above. Also, even if God Saves one soul on Judgment Day as per Zephaniah 3:8 – 10 points, it is possible then that He Can Save others even after the Lake of Fire Judgment. The Mysterious Book of 1Enoch may point to such a hope on Judgment Day for some as well, to quote:
“… 1 And in those days a change shall take place for the holy and elect, And the light of days shall abide upon them, And glory and honour shall turn to the holy, 2 ON THE DAY OF AFFLICTION on which evil shall have been treasured up against the sinners.And the righteous shall be victorious in the name of the Lord of Spirits: And HE WILL CAUSE THE OTHERS TO WITNESS (this) THAT THEY MAY REPENT And FORGO THE WORKS OF THEIR HANDS. 3 They shall have NO HONOUR through the name of the Lord of Spirits, YET THROUGH HIS NAME SHALL THEY BE SAVED [Joel 2:32, Romans 10:13, Matthew 12:21], And THE LORD OF SPIRITS WILL HAVE COMPASSION ON THEM, For His compassion is great. 4 And He is righteous also in His judgement, And in the presence of His glory unrighteousness also shall not maintain itself: At HIS JUDGEMENT THE UNREPENTANT SHALL PERISH before Him. 5 And FROM HENCEFORTH I will have NO MERCY on them, saith the Lord of Spirits. …” (Book of Enoch, Chapter 50)
Translation Source:
http://wesley.nnu.edu/index.php?id=2126
Please notice Carefully that this “Salvation with no honour” (hence not a Christian Salvation but possibly unbelievers or fallen Christians) happening on the “Day of Affliction” (Judgment Day) as mentioned in Quote above may refer to the “Saved by fire” case (1 Corinthians 3:13 – 15) after they have “their part” in the Lake of Fire first (Revelation 20:11 – 15).
Here is a set of First Christianity Quotes (by someone with no writing or Prayer to Mary/Saints/Angels either and so Protestants my consider it) quoting such a possible belief based on this 3 categories of men echoing salvation for the “Sinners” category who are saved post-afterlife Judgments first, to quote:
“… The Psalmist represents here THREE KINDS OF MEN, the UNGODLY, the SINNERS, and the JUST, in the order followed by the error. …” – Blessed Ambrosiaster (literally in Latin: “would-be Ambrose”), Roman Clergy active at Rome during the reign of Pope Damasus (c.366 AD – c. 384 AD)
Source (QUESTION 110. ON THE FIRST PSALM.”):
https://sites.google.com/site/aquinasstudybible/home/ambrosiaster-questions-on-the-old-and-new-testaments/scriptural-order-old-testament
“… QUESTION 126. FROM THE ONE WHO RECEIVED THE FAITH OF JESUS CHRIST. … In fact, the knowledge of God must inspire the fear of the just judge, in whose court he teaches us that the faithful will receive the reward of their righteousness, and the ungodly, that is to say the unbelievers, the just punishment of their infidelity. It is of all justice, indeed, that the good ones be filled with joy in the future life in which Jesus Christ must reign with his chosen ones. They have been exposed to scorn, outrages in this world where the devil reigns, they will appear surrounded by glory in the kingdom of Jesus Christ for which they have borne the contempt of the worldly. SINNERS, on the contrary, who seemed to shine here below a false brilliance, opposing falsehood to truth, have to wait for tribulation and an imaginary glory to succeed for them a contempt, a humiliation too real. The righteous will rejoice in having believed, when they witness the chastisements of the unbelieving, and THE UNFAITHFUL WILL REPENT of THEIR UNBELIEF ONLY when THEY SEE BOTH THEIR OWN CHASTISEMENT and the glory of those WHOSE FAITH THEY HAD REGARDED as an ACT of MADNESS, which was only worthy of their contempt. …” – Blessed Ambrosiaster (literally in Latin: “would-be Ambrose”), Roman Clergy active at Rome during the reign of Pope Damasus (c.366 AD – c. 384 AD)
Source:
https://sites.google.com/site/aquinasstudybible/home/ambrosiaster-questions-on-the-old-and-new-testaments/polemic
Here is a Possible “Scripture” Level Writing in “First Christianity” Testifying to such a Possible Hope, to quote from the Shepherd of Hermas Scripture:
“… Do you wish to know who are the others which fell near the waters, but could not be rolled into them? These are they who have heard the word, and wish to be baptized in the name of the Lord; but when the chastity demanded by the truth comes into their recollection, they draw back, and again walk after their own wicked desires.” She finished her exposition of the tower. …” – Shepherd of Hermas (Chapter VII, Third Vision, Translated by another Well Known Scholar Mr. Roberts-Donaldson)
Source:
http://www.earlychristianwritings.com/text/shepherd.html
So,
“…These are they who have heard the word, and wish to be baptized in the name of the Lord …” = Non-Christians who Heard the Gospel but never got Baptized though they may have wished to because,
“…but when the chastity demanded by the truth comes into their recollection, they draw back, and again walk after their own wicked desires. …” = They did not want to Believe and Practice Christianity because the Demands of Its Purity is too High and that they don’t want to abandon their past ways, i.e. they died unrepentant on earth. Can you see that the Hope of the Spirit World Salvation also includes them as part of “all these rejected stones”?
The Hope Part:
“… She finished her exposition of the tower. But I, shameless as I yet was, asked her, “Is repentance possible for all those stones which have been cast away and did not fit into the building of the tower, and will they yet have a place in this tower?” “Repentance,” said she, “is yet possible, but in this tower they cannot find a suitable place. But in another and much inferior place they will be laid, and that, too, only when they have been tortured and completed the days of their sins. And on this account will they be transferred, because they have partaken of the righteous Word. And then only will they be removed from their punishments when the thought of repenting of the evil deeds which they have done has come into their hearts. But if it does not come into their hearts, they will not be saved, on account of the hardness of their heart.” …” – Shepherd of Hermas (Chapter VII, Third Vision, Translated by another Well Known Scholar Mr. Roberts-Donaldson)
Source:
http://www.earlychristianwritings.com/text/shepherd.html
This Shepherd of Hermas Scripture regarding some non-Christians (the unbaptized & those who heard the Gospel on earth but did not believe in it) can be Saved in the Spirit World if God Wills as Described above.
How Reliable is the Shepherd of Hermas Writing and why is it not in the Bible then?
Shepherd of Hermas – For All the Elect
“… and asked me, if I had yet given the book to the presbyters. And I said that I had not. And then she said, “You have done well for I have some words to add. But when I finish all the words, ALL the ELECT will then become acquainted with them through you. You will write therefore two books, and you will send the one to Clemens and the other to Grapte. And Clemens will send his to foreign countries, for permission has been granted to him to do so. And Grapte will admonish the widows and the orphans. But you will read the words in this city, along with the presbyters who preside over the Church. …” – Shepherd of Hermas (Vision 2, Chapter IV)
Source:
http://www.earlychristianwritings.com/text/shepherd.html
Please note the phrase “ALL the ELECT” carefully in the quote above across two translations. Hence I implore thee: please don’t take this “Shepherd of Hermas Scripture” in First Christianity lightly and please read it in links above.
How reliable is Shepherd of Hermas in First Christianity till today?
To quote (briefly):
Regarding the Shepherd of Hermas, it is considered Scripture-Level in First Christianity by even St. Irenaeous of Lyons (hearer of St. Polycarp the disciple of St. John who wrote the Book of Revelation), Tertullian (father of Latin/Western Christianity), Pope Callixtus I (leader of the Entire Roman Catholic Church in his time), St. Clement of Alexandria (Head of the Oldest Bible School in Christianity, the Alexandrian School) and even the First Bibles of Christianity (the Muratorian or Roman Canon in the West & the Codex Claromontanus Canon in the East) while Eusebius (father of Church History) and St. Athanasius the Great (father of orthodoxy & Champion of Trinity) approved of its use for catechumens .
If all these “Elect Saints of God” believed in the Shepherd of Hermas as Scripture, we ought to as well.
The Various Approval of the Shepherd of Hermas is discussed in detail at the end of the write up in link below:
https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=10159121203392784&id=65179278
As I said, I point this out as a “Possibility” and not Doctrine because I am not sure either way as Holy Scripture seems to point either way. Perhaps God doesn’t want us to find out as the Bible Verses below itself points out that “God’s Judgment are past finding out” meaning it cannot be determined by us 100% for all cases here itself on earth:
“… Oh, the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! How UNSEARCHABLE ARE HIS JUDGMENTS and His ways PAST FINDING OUT! …” (Romans 11:33, NKJV)
v) Part of the “Will of God” not being Fulfilled and “Many” Converts being “Denied” on “that Day” when He Returns is because they didn’t “commit their lives into DOING GOOD” which includes not just living Holy but doing GOOD WORKS.
“… 19Therefore LET THOSE WHO SUFFER ACCORDING TO THE WILL OF GOD COMMIT THEIR SOULS TO HIM IN DOING GOOD, as to a faithful Creator. …” (1 Peter 4:19, NKJV)
“… 13“Enter by the narrow gate; for wide is the gate and broad is the way that leads to destruction, and there are many who go in by it. 14[c]Because narrow is the gate and [d]DIFFICULT is the way which LEADS TO LIFE, and there are FEW WHO FIND IT. … 21“Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father in heaven. 22MANY will say to Me in that day, ‘Lord, Lord, have we NOT PROPHESIED in Your name, CAST OUT DEMONS in Your name, and DONE MANY WONDERS in Your name?’ 23And then I will declare to them, ‘I NEVER KNEW YOU; depart from Me, you who practice LAWLESSNESS!’ …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 7:13 – 14, 21 – 23, NKJV)
“… Bear one another’s burdens, and so FULFILL THE LAW OF CHRIST. …” (Galatians 6:2, NKJV)
This First Christianity Quote by St. Cyprian who is accepted by both Protestants and others (who doesn’t have any prayers to Mary, Saints, Angels in his writings) clearly warns that the “unfruitful trees” denied by Christ are those who didn’t “aid the poor”, to quote:
“… 8. In fine, He calls those the CHILDREN OF ABRAHAM whom He sees to be LABORIOUS IN AIDING and NOURISHING THE POOR. For when Zacchæus said, “Behold, the half of my goods I give to the poor; and if I have done any wrong to any man, I restore fourfold,” JESUS answered and said, “That salvation has this day come to this house, for that he also is a son of Abraham.” [3545, Luke 19:8, 9.] For if Abraham believed in God, and it was counted unto him for righteousness, certainly he who gives alms according to God’s precept believes in God, and he who has the truth of faith maintains the fear of God; moreover, he who maintains the fear of God CONSIDERS GOD IN SHOWING MERCY TO THE POOR. For he labours thus because he believes — because he knows that what is foretold by God’s word is true, and that the Holy Scripture cannot lie — that unfruitful trees, that is, unproductive men, are cut off and cast into the fire, but that the MERCIFUL ARE CALLED INTO THE KINGDOM. He also, in another place, calls laborious and fruitful men faithful; but He denies faith to unfruitful and barren ones, saying, “If ye have NOT BEEN FAITHFUL in the UNRIGHTEOUS MAMMON, who will commit to you that which is true? And if ye have not been faithful in that which is another man’s, who shall give you that which is your own?” [3546, Luke 16:11, 12] …” – Blessed St. Cyprian, Bishop of Carthage, a pre-eminent Latin writer of Western Christianity until Jerome and Augustine, Martyr for Christ (c. 200 AD – c. 258 AD, Point 8, Treatise viii. On Works and Alms)
Source:
https://biblehub.com/library/cyprian/the_treatises_of_cyprian/treatise_viii_on_works_and.htm
That’s why the Prosperity Gospel is dangerous because more is given, more is required and unfaithfulness with money collected in the Name of God hoarded for self or used for beyond “needs” instead of given to ministry of the “bodily needs of the poor” as these Verses Testify God’s Will for “His Money” can cause one to miss the rewards or be denied & disinherited from life according to these Verses:
i. This Warning below which sounds like those who do it are unsaved was Written by Apostle St. James to “rich Christians” as his letters are not written to Unbelievers which agrees to such a possible exegesis:
“… 1Come now, YOU RICH, weep and howl for your miseries that are coming upon you! 2Your riches are corrupted, and your garments are moth-eaten. 3Your GOLD and SILVER are corroded, and their corrosion will be a witness against you and will EAT YOUR FLESH LIKE FIRE. You have HEAPED up TREASURE in the LAST DAYS. … 5You have lived on the earth in PLEASURE and LUXURY; you have fattened your hearts as in a DAY of SLAUGHTER. …”
– Blessed St. James the Just, First Bishop of Jerusalem (James 5:1 – 3, 5, NKJV)
ii. The “Command” by Apostle St. Paul who wrote the “Justification by Faith Doctrine” toward the “rich Christians” to attain to “Eternal Life” includes doing these “works of faith” which is clearly or mainly the “Charity Doctrine” making this Context certainly true Biblically for the New Testament:
“… 17COMMAND THOSE WHO ARE RICH in this present age not to be haughty, nor to trust in uncertain riches but in the living God, who gives us richly all things to enjoy. 18Let THEM DO GOOD, that they be RICH IN GOOD WORKS, READY TO GIVE, WILLING TO SHARE, 19storing up for themselves a good foundation for the time to come, that THEY MAY LAY HOLD ON ETERNAL LIFE. …” (1 Timothy 6:17 – 19, NKJV)
The only Rich Christians who are Saved will demonstrate the “Saving Faith with Charity Doctrine Works” as described in Verses above.
iii. Judgment of Sheep and Sheep based on the “Charity Doctrine”
“… 15I will feed My flock, and I will make them lie down,” says the Lord God. 16“I will seek what was lost and bring back what was driven away, bind up the broken and strengthen what was sick; but I WILL DESTROY THE FAT AND THE STRONG, and FEED THEM IN JUDGMENT.” 17‘And as for you, O My flock, thus says the Lord God: “Behold, I SHALL JUDGE BETWEEN SHEEP AND SHEEP, between rams and goats. … 20‘Therefore thus says the Lord God to them: “Behold, I MYSELF WILL JUDGE BETWEEN THE FAT and THE LEAN SHEEP. 21Because you have pushed with side and shoulder, butted all the weak ones with your horns, and scattered them abroad, 22therefore I will save My flock, and they shall no longer be a prey; and I WILL JUDGE BETWEEN SHEEP AND SHEEP. …” (Ezekiel 34:15 – 17, 20 – 22, NKJV)
The Verses above talk about the lost sheep of Israel where the stronger ones among them have “not” done the “Charity Doctrine” toward their weaker ones causing the weaker ones to be “lean” and cast aside while the “fat” ones enjoy “prosperity” as parabolically described in Verses above.
God’s Judgment Principle is the same as He Judges above between “Sheep and Sheep” (Context) from which we can clearly see the danger of the “Prosperity Gospel” because these teach to be like the “fat” sheep which grabs everything just because they are stronger or have advantage in life instead of focusing on the “Charity Doctrine” between them to share with the “poorer” Christian Churches (quoted in principle of “Sheep” judged with how they treat “other Sheep”).
iv. In this Same Chapter, God Warns against “Shepherds” (or pastors too in principle) where they’re busy “feeding themselves” (both spiritually and physically with money gained in the Name of God, for example) instead of using that money/spiritual gifts to “Freely Give” toward the “Poor Sheep” (implied) in Verses below:
“… 7‘Therefore, you shepherds, hear the word of the Lord: 8“As I live,” says the Lord God, “surely because My flock became a prey, and My flock became food for every beast of the field, because there was no shepherd, nor did My shepherds search for My flock, but THE SHEPHERDS FED THEMSELVES and DID NOT FEED MY FLOCK”— 9therefore, O shepherds, hear the word of the Lord! 10Thus says the Lord God: “Behold, I AM AGAINST THE SHEPHERDS, and I will require My flock at their hand; I will cause them to cease feeding the sheep, and the shepherds shall feed themselves no more; for I WILL DELIVER MY FLOCK FROM THEIR MOUTHS, that they may NO LONGER BE FOOD FOR THEM.” …” (Ezekiel 34:7 – 10, NKJV)
It’s clearly described parabolically that God is “not” keen on Shepherds who “feed themselves” even using their “sheep as food”, i.e. in analogy using their church member’s money to attain to “monetary prosperity”. A true Shepherd lives by faith by taking only what he needs from Church Money and giving the rest to ministry and the poor as these New Testament Verses agree likewise:
“… 1The elders who are among you I exhort, I who am a fellow elder and a witness of the sufferings of Christ, and also a partaker of the glory that will be revealed: 2SHEPHERD the flock of God which is among you, serving as overseers, not by compulsion but [a]willingly, NOT FOR DISHONEST GAIN but eagerly; 3nor as being [b]lords over those entrusted to you, but BEING EXAMPLES TO THE FLOCK; 4and when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory that does not fade away. …” (1 Peter 5:2 – 4, NKJV)
It’s clear Written in Verses above that Pastors ought to Shepherd the Flock of God by “Example” meaning if they teach prayer, they must pray plentifully, if they teach Giving, they must give too and so on. Being Examples means they’re not exempt say from the Charity Doctrine and receive only from their flock in which case they may fall into the dangerous category of “Prosperity Pastors or Fat Sheep” which God judges in Verses in Ezekiel earlier and in here it’s written as “dishonest gain”.
v. No Righteous Man in the Bible ever became Rich by collecting money in the Name of God. Only false teachers are Prophesied to be like that.
Yes, “prosperity” with money collected in the name of God is “dishonest gain” as no one (from Abraham to Job) ever became rich via money collected in the name of God but were rich only via secular work of farming etc. which God Blessed them & they shared extravagantly:
Apostle St. Paul “Prophesied” clearly regarding the dangerous Christian pastors to come who will draw disciples to themselves (have many converts because people love money & so look for such prosperity preachers) but will be missing this “example” (which 1 Peter 5:3) mentions too as to not have “dishonest gain” is described in Verses below:
“… 30Also from AMONG YOURSELVES MEN WILL RISE UP, SPEAKING [H]PERVERSE THINGS, to DRAW AWAY THE DISCIPLES AFTER THEMSELVES. 31Therefore watch, and remember that for three years I did not cease to warn everyone night and day with tears. 32“So now, brethren, I commend you to God and to the word of His grace, which is able to build you up and give you AN INHERITANCE AMONG ALL THOSE WHO are SANCTIFIED. 33I have COVETED NO ONE’S SILVER OR GOLD or APPAREL. 34[i]Yes, you yourselves know that THESE HANDS have PROVIDED FOR MY NECESSITIES, and for those who were with me. 35I have SHOWN YOU IN EVERY WAY, by laboring like this, that YOU MUST SUPPORT THE WEAK. And remember the words of the Lord Jesus, that He said, ‘It is MORE BLESSED TO GIVE THAN TO RECEIVE.’ ” …” (Acts 20:25 – 35, NKJV)
It’s very clear in Apostle St. Paul’s last words before his journey toward Martyrdom that he warns of false teachings by pointing out the “correct” way the Gospel Work & Life should be lived which is “not prosperity” with God’s Money but to use it to the poor supporting the weak as it’s more Blessed to Give than to Receive and himself even working as long as he can. This is the “Example” of a True Shepherd of Christ.
vi. True Pastors receive their living only from the Gospel and Give the rest of the collection to Ministry and the Poor. The Best among them even work for their own needs & share with others and do “not” even take the money collection for their needs as long as they are able to work.
In Verses below, Apostle St. Paul wrote that God Allows pastors to receive “their living” (or “needs”) from the Gospel money collection but not prosperity as this can be equivalent to robbing God and the poor to whom the money ought to be given, Verses:
“… 14Even so the Lord has commanded that those who preach the gospel should live from the gospel. 15But I have used none of these things, nor have I written these things that it should be done so to me; … 18What is my reward then? That when I preach the gospel, I may present the gospel of Christ without charge, that I may not abuse my authority in the gospel. …” (1 Corinthians 9:14 – 15, 18, NKJV)
“… Freely you have received, freely give. …” – God in Flesh, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 10:8, NKJV)
If we are not obeying these Verses, we may be Doing the opposite to these Verses (or a mixture of it) sometimes ‘unknowingly’:
“… No one can serve two masters. Either you will hate the one and love the other, or you will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money. …” (Matthew 6:24, NIV)
Yes, ‘working with your own hands’ (a secular job) is ‘God’s Preferred Will’, Verses:
“… So, because he [Apostle Paul] was of the same trade, he stayed with them and worked; for by occupation they were tentmakers. …” (Acts 18:3, NKJV)
“… And we labor, working with our own hands. Being reviled, we bless; being persecuted, we endure; …” (1 Corinthians 4:12, NKJV)
The highest pastoral way is when the ‘pastor works hard at a secular job’ and ‘shares his income’ with those with him (in analogy as a ‘parent who provides for the children’) instead of the other way around, Verses:
“… Yes, you yourselves know that these hands have provided for my necessities, and for those who were with me. …” – Blessed St. Paul the Great Apostle of Christ (Acts 20:34 NKJV)
Yes what God means in “… nor did My shepherds search for My flock, but THE SHEPHERDS FED THEMSELVES and DID NOT FEED MY FLOCK” …” (Ezekiel 34:8) is that Shepherds/Pastors sometimes cannot feed every sheep due to lack of income or collection but they put an effort to do this “Charity Doctrine” toward those whom they can as the New Testament Verses below agree perfectly:
“… Now for the third time I am ready to come to you. And I will not be burdensome to you; for I do not seek yours, but you. For the CHILDREN OUGHT NOT TO LAY UP FOR THE PARENTS, BUT THE PARENTS FOR THE CHILDREN. …” (2 Corinthians 12:14, NKJV)
vii. The Apostolic Decree of Preaching the Gospel only Works if we “remember the Poor” by Doing the “Charity Doctrine” toward them
This agrees with the Apostolic Decision of apart from Preaching the Gospel, it only works if they “remember the poor” which is nothing else than doing the “Charity Doctrine”, Verse:
“… They [The PILLARS, APOSTLES] DESIRED ONLY that we should REMEMBER THE POOR, the very thing which I also was eager to do. …” (Galatians 2:10, NKJV)
Giving to the Poor is equivalent to Giving to God, Verse:
“… He who has PITY ON THE POOR LENDS TO THE LORD, And He will pay back what he has given. …” (Proverbs 19:17, NKJV)
“… He who has a GENEROUS EYE WILL BE BLESSED, For he GIVES OF HIS BREAD TO THE POOR. …” (Proverbs 22:9, NKJV)
So, “Prosperity Hoarding” doesn’t focus on giving to the poor which is the same as saying that they’re not interested in Giving to God. Can you see it? In other words, if someone is interested in Giving to God, he will Give to the Poor as that’s what is Written in Verse above and so if he doesn’t like giving to the poor and prefers “Prosperity Hoarding” and enjoying life with that money, they are not interested in giving to God.
Giving to a prosperity pastor is not counted because it’s not giving to the poor and is a misuse of God’s Name and worst still any “giving to the rich” (e.g. money given to prosperity pastors or gifts bought for rich people ) may be “cursed” according to Verses below:
“… He who oppresses the poor to increase his riches, And HE WHO GIVES TO THE RICH, WILL SURELY COME TO POVERTY. …” (Proverbs 22:16, NKJV)
“… He who gives to the poor will not lack, But he WHO HIDES HIS EYES WILL HAVE MANY CURSES …” (Proverbs 28:27, NKJV)
If the curse is not fulfilled in this life as many of the rich-wicked don’t get judged on earth (Psalm 72:3 – 5, 12, 16 – 20), they will find themselves in poverty in Hell as the Story of the Rich Man and Lazarus reveals as Christ Himself Taught (in Luke 16:19 – 31).
viii. Even if Salvation is not lost for saved rich Christians, such Prosperity Gospel causes the loss of eternal rewards making one “not rich toward God” too
“… So is he who LAYS UP TREASURE FOR HIMSELF, and is NOT RICH TOWARD GOD. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 12:21, NKJV)
Relative Measure comes in where more is given, more is required:
“… Therefore, to him who knows to do good and does not do it, to him it is sin. …” (James 4:17, NKJV)
Conclusion
No Prosperity Gospel is Taught in the “Abundant Life” Definition by Christ Himself:
“… The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I have come that they may have LIFE, and that they may have it MORE ABUNDANTLY. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (John 10:10, NKJV)
“… [And He said to them], “Take heed and beware of covetousness, for ONE’S LIFE DOES NOT consist in the ABUNDANCE of the THINGS he POSSESSES.” …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 12:15, NKJV)
Renunciation of earthly things is certainly the Way toward Spiritual Growth and “Discipleship in Christ”, Verses:
“… So then, none of you can be My disciple who does not give up all his own possessions. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 14:33, NASB)
Or in another translation:
“… So likewise, whoever of you does not forsake all that he has cannot be My disciple …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 14:33, NKJV)
Example: There is “no” such thing as a Prosperity Christian Missionary but all Christian missionaries across the Denominations do the ‘Charity Doctrine’ in their respective locality.
Only a Sharing Christian Man is Saved as this specific Command to the “Rich Christians” reveals, Verses:
“… 17COMMAND THOSE WHO ARE RICH in this present age not to be haughty, nor to trust in uncertain riches but in the living God, who gives us richly all things to enjoy. 18Let THEM DO GOOD, that they be RICH IN GOOD WORKS, READY TO GIVE, WILLING TO SHARE, 19storing up for themselves a good foundation for the time to come, that THEY MAY LAY HOLD ON ETERNAL LIFE. …” (1 Timothy 6:17 – 19, NKJV)
Compare:
“… 19Therefore LET THOSE WHO SUFFER ACCORDING TO THE WILL OF GOD COMMIT THEIR SOULS TO HIM IN DOING GOOD, as to a faithful Creator. …” (1 Peter 4:19, NKJV)
“… 12So speak and so do as those who will be judged by the law of liberty. 13For JUDGMENT IS WITHOUT MERCY to the one who has SHOWN NO MERCY. MERCY TRIUMPHS OVER JUDGMENT. 14What does it profit, my brethren, if someone says he HAS FAITH BUT DOES NOT HAVE WORKS? CAN FAITH SAVE HIM? 15If a brother or sister is naked and destitute of daily food, 16and 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? 17Thus also FAITH BY ITSELF, IF IT DOES NOT HAVE WORKS, IS DEAD. …” (James 2:12 – 17, NKJV)
Last but not least, please notice carefully in these last set of Verses above that the “Good Works” or “Doing Good” referred to in 1 Peter 4:19 certainly refers to “earthly needs sharing” as the “Saving Works of faith” (as James 2:12 – 17 clearly proves) and agrees in context with 1 Timothy 6:17 – 19 which speaks of “Sharing/Giving” earthly Wealth or Money away to those in need/the poor in order to attain to “Eternal Life” as God’s Will for the Rich. Relative Measure means if you don’t have or are poor, it’s easier to inherit the kingdom as the chosen ones:
1. Heaven for the “Poor in Spirit” ones = those who shared their earthly goods
“… Blessed are the poor in spirit, For theirs is the kingdom of heaven. …” (Matthew 5:3, NKJV)
Example: Blessed Abraham
2. Heaven for the “poor” literally = those who didn’t have earthly goods (remember, Lazarus the Beggar?)
“… Then He lifted up His eyes toward His disciples, and said: “Blessed are you poor, For yours is the kingdom of God. …” (Luke 6:20, NKJV)
“… Listen, my beloved brethren: Has God not chosen the poor of this world to be rich in faith and heirs of the kingdom which He promised to those who love Him? …” (James 2:5, NKJV)
Example: Lazarus the Beggar
“… 25But Abraham said, ‘Son, REMEMBER that in YOUR LIFETIME YOU RECEIVED YOUR GOOD THINGS, and likewise Lazarus evil things; but now he is comforted and YOU are TORMENTED. 26And besides all this, between us and you there is a great gulf fixed, so that those who want to pass from here to you cannot, nor can those from there pass to us.’ …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 16:25 – 26, NKJV)
3. This Definition of “Poor in Spirit” (Matthew 5:3) referring to the rich who share and the literally “Poor” (Luke 6:20) to inherit heaven was believed by this First Christianity Champion of Faith who is accepted by both Protestants and others especially since he strongly opposed iconography prayers in Christianity and himself has no recorded prayers to Mary, nor to the Saints nor to the Angels etc., To quote:
“… 401 8r,3 But he does not know that the Old Testament also says, “The poor and the rich have met together: but the Lord is the maker of them both.” 402 And the New Testament agrees, and pronounces a BLESSING on the POOR who are LITERALLY POOR, and in ANOTHER PASSAGE a BLESSING on the POOR in SPIRIT, so that BOTH PRONOUNCEMENTS have FORCE. Thus Peter can point with pride to his LITERAL POVERTY and say, “Silver and gold have I none, but what I have, I give thee; in the name of Jesus Christ, rise up and walk,” 403 (4) so that the BLESSING of the ACTUALLY POOR means NOTHING CONTRADICTORY to the BLESSING of the POOR IN SPIRIT. The “POOR in SPIRIT” are persons in RIGHTEOUS POSSESSION of PROPERTY, while the “poor” are the humble, of whom Christ said, “I was an hungered, and YE GAVE ME MEAT, thirsty, and YE GAVE me DRINK,” and so on 81,5 Next he explains, ‘These (i.e., the POOR in SPIRIT) ACTED of THEIR ABUNDANCE”; … And do you see how, in the Old and the New Testaments, the poor are called blessed for piety, and the rich are called blessed for righteousness? …” – Blessed St. Epiphanius, Bishop of Salamis and the ‘Hammer of Heretics’, (c. 310 AD – c. 403 AD, ‘MANICHAEANS’ , “Panarion or Medicine-Chest”, Point 62.10, Pages 308 – 309)
Source:
https://archive.org/stream/EpiphaniusPanarionBksIIIII1/Epiphanius%20-%20_Panarion_%20-%20Bks%20II%20%26%20III%20-%201_djvu.txt
The Emulation of the Greatest Love of Christ is Described as “laying the life for the Brethren” in the Context of Doing the Charity Doctrine with this world’s goods (i.e. with actual physical bodily needs things), Verses:
“… 13Greater love has no one than this, than to lay down one’s life for his friends. 14You are My friends if you do whatever I command you. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (John 15:13 – 14, NKJV)
“… 16By this WE KNOW LOVE, because He laid down His life for us. And we also ought to lay down our lives for the brethren. 17But WHOEVER HAS THIS WORLD’S GOODS, AND SEES HIS BROTHER IN NEED, and shuts up his heart from him, HOW DOES THE LOVE OF GOD ABIDE in HIM? 18My little children, let us not LOVE IN WORD OR IN TONGUE, but IN DEED AND IN TRUTH. …” (1 John 3:16 – 18, NKJV)
Peace to you
Twice the Son of Hell Mystery
Bible Verses:
“… 13“But woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you shut up the kingdom of heaven against men; for you neither go in yourselves, nor do you allow those who are entering to go in. 14[g]Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you devour widows’ houses, and for a pretense make long prayers. Therefore you will receive greater condemnation. 15“Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For YOU TRAVEL LAND and SEA TO WIN ONE PROSELYTE, and when he is won, you make him TWICE as much a SON OF [h]HELL as yourselves. … 23“Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you pay tithe of mint and anise and cummin, and have neglected the WEIGHTIER MATTERS OF THE LAW (Torah):JUSTICE and MERCY and FAITH. These you ought to have done, without leaving the others undone. 24Blind guides, who strain out a gnat and swallow a camel! 25“Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you CLEANSE THE OUSTIDE of the cup and dish, but INSIDE they are full of extortion and [l]SELF-INDULGENCE. 26Blind Pharisee, first cleanse the inside of the cup and dish, that the outside of them may be clean also. …”- The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 23:13 – 15, 23 – 26, NKJV)
What does Christ mean by the “weightier matters of the Law” without fulfilling which the “outside holiness” (or ‘godliness of keeping holy’) doesn’t save?
In Matthew 23:23 above, He Declares it as “Justice, Mercy and Faith”.
Also in Matthew 23:25 – 26, Christ Teaches the “Doctrine of Sanctification” where the “inside” ought to be “clean” also and not just “outward holiness” (i.e. abstinence from sinful acts). However, Matthew doesn’t record the “how” to do it in these Verses.
The Mysterious Answer regarding both the “Justice, Mercy & Faith” (Matthew 23:23) and the Doctrine of Sanctification which “Cleans All” (both Inside & Outside) as Christ Promises above (in Matthew 23:25 – 26) is nothing else than the “Charity Doctrine” with the Focus on “Almsgiving” (Alms / Charity Works) ‘not knowing which’ Christ calls them “fools” which agrees to the Parable of the Wise and Foolish Virgins likewise as we have seen who despite being “virgins” (or outwardly holy) miss this part as Described by Christ Himself to Explain ‘what He Means in His Own Most Blessed Words’, Verses:
“… 39Then the Lord said to him, “Now you Pharisees make the OUTSIDE OF THE CUP and DISH CLEAN, but YOUR INWARD PART is full of [k]GREED and WICKEDNESS. 40FOOLISH ones! Did not He who made the outside make the inside also? 41But rather GIVE ALMS of [l]SUCH THINGS AS YOU HAVE; then indeed ALL THINGS ARE CLEAN TO YOU. 42“But woe to you Pharisees! For you tithe mint and rue and all manner of herbs, and pass by JUSTICE and the LOVE of GOD These you ought to have done, without leaving the others undone. 43Woe to you Pharisees! For you love the [m]best seats in the synagogues and greetings in the marketplaces. 44Woe to you, [n]scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you are like graves which are not seen, and the men who walk over them are not aware of them.” …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 11:39 – 45, NKJV)
Please notice carefully how Christ links the “Justice and the Love of God” part (in Luke 11:42) which the Pharisees have missed not being the ‘tithing doctrine’ (which they’re already doing, Luke 11:42) but to specifically refer to the “CHARITY DOCTRINE” of “ALMSGIVING” (Luke 11:41) which is the most Important Doctrine of Sanctification as it “CLEANS ALL” (both Inside & Outside of ‘Greed & Wickedness/Evil’, in Luke 11:39 – 41) as CHRIST HIMSELF Teaches this Doctrine so clearly in Verses above.
Please don’t ignore Christ’s Most Blessed Words “as it is Written”. If it’s not important, Christ wouldn’t have emphasized it and this must be inclusive of the way to “exceed the righteousness of the pharisees” to “enter the Kingdom of Heaven” because they didn’t do this (i.e. Giving Charity from ‘what they have’ but did fake Charity with other people’s money insincerely even) as it’s described in Verses below:
“… 20For I say to you, that unless your righteousness exceeds the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees, you will by no means enter the kingdom of heaven. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 5:19, NKJV)
In other words, to ‘exceed the righteousness of the Pharisees’, we ought to focus on the things which Christ Told them to do but they didn’t do which is Primarily the Charity Doctrine as Luke 11:41 Describes so clearly in His Own Most Blessed Words as the Cleansing Needed for both the Inside and Outside, or “All”.
Conclusion – A Modern Prophecy by Blessed John Wesley
Please notice that John Wesley is calling such Christians without the “Charity Doctrine” of “Giving” with the harsh phrase of “twice the children of Hell” which is beyond the danger I usually point which is a loss of Reward or Gradation in His Kingdom, to quote from the above in his own words:
“… But, how many have you found that observe the third rule, ‘GIVE ALL YOU CAN’? … And yet nothing can be more plain than that all who observe the first rules without the third will be TWOFOLD MORE THE CHILDREN OF HELL than ever they were before.” …” – Blessed John Wesley
Source:
https://www.umc.org/en/content/john-wesley-on-giving-pog
Is Blessed John Wesley’s Prophecy here true? Which Protestant dares to call him a false prophet if they disagree with his Prophecy here?
Peace to you
God’s Desire for Mercy is the Charity Doctrine
Christ Affirms this Beautiful Truth when He Quoted Hosea 6:6 (Verse in image) in the Context of “Doing Good Works” even on a Sabbath doesn’t condemn anyone, Verses:
“… 7But if you had known what this means, ‘I DESIRE MERCY AND NOT SACRIFICE,’ you would not have condemned the guiltless. 8For the Son of Man is Lord [b]even of the Sabbath.” 9Now when He had departed from there, He went into their synagogue. 10And behold, there was a man who had a withered hand. And they asked Him, saying, “Is it lawful to heal on the Sabbath?”—that they might accuse Him. 11Then He said to them, “What man is there among you who has one sheep, and if it falls into a pit on the Sabbath, will not lay hold of it and lift it out? 12Of how much more value then is a man than a sheep? Therefore IT IS LAWFUL TO DO GOOD ON THE SABBATH.” …” (Matthew 12:7 – 12, NKJV)
Mercy toward others Verses is the Charity Doctrine, other Verses:
“… 13For JUDGMENT IS WITHOUT MERCY to the one who has SHOWN NO MERCY. MERCY TRIUMPHS OVER JUDGMENT. 14What does it profit, my brethren, if someone says he HAS FAITH BUT DOES NOT HAVE WORKS? CAN FAITH SAVE HIM? 15If a brother or sister is naked and destitute of daily food, 16and 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? 17Thus also FAITH BY ITSELF, IF IT DOES NOT HAVE WORKS, IS DEAD. …” (James 2:13 – 17, NKJV)
Example of Sacrifice is “Praise and Worship” Verses:
“… Therefore by Him let us continually offer the sacrifice of praise to God, that is, the fruit of our lips, giving thanks to His name. …” (Hebrews 13:15, NKJV)
“… I will offer to You the sacrifice of thanksgiving, And will call upon the name of the LORD. …” (Psalm 116:117, NKJV)
As Blessed Prophet Amos has Pointed out in Verses below, God is only interested in our “Sacrifice” of “Praise & Worship” to the Extend we show “Mercy” and do the “Charity Doctrine” and Vice Versa as these Verses taken together Reveals:
“… 21“I HATE, I despise your feast days,
And I do NOT SAVOR your SACRED ASSEMBLIES.
22Though you offer Me burnt offerings and your grain offerings, I will NOT ACCEPT them, NOR will I regard your fattened peace offerings.
23TAKE AWAY from Me the NOISE of YOUR SONGS,
For I will NOT HEAR the MELODY of your STRINGED INSTRUMENTS. 24But let JUSTICE run down like water, And RIGHTEOUSNESS like a mighty stream. … 10They HATE the one who REBUKES in the gate,
And they ABHOR the one who SPEAKS UPRIGHTLY.
11Therefore, BECAUSE YOU TREAD DOWN THE POOR And take grain taxes from him,
Though you have built houses of hewn stone,
Yet you shall not dwell in them;
You have planted pleasant vineyards,
But you shall not drink wine from them.
12For I know YOUR MANIFOLD TRANSGRESSIONS
And YOUR MIGHTY SINS:
AFFLICTING THE JUST and TAKING BRIBES;
DIVERTING THE POOR FROM JUSTICE at the gate. …” (Amos 5:21 – 24, 10 – 12, NKJV)
Blessed Prophet Isaiah Taught this Same Truth, Verses:
“… 10Hear the WORD OF THE LORD,
You RULERS OF SODOM;
GIVE EAR to the LAW OF OUR GOD,
You PEOPLE OF GOMORRAH:
11“To what PURPOSE is the MULTITUDE OF YOUR SACRIFICES TO ME?”
Says the Lord.
“I have had enough of burnt offerings of rams
And the fat of fed cattle.
I do not delight in the blood of bulls,
Or of lambs or goats.
12“When you come to appear before Me,
Who has required this from your hand,
To trample My courts?
13Bring no more futile[f] sacrifices;
Incense is an abomination to Me.
The New Moons, the Sabbaths, and the CALLING OF ASSEMBLIES—
I CANNOT ENDURE INIQUITY and THE SACRED MEETING.
14Your New Moons and your appointed feasts
MY SOUL HATES;
They are a trouble to Me,
I am weary of bearing them.
15When you [g]spread out your hands,
I will hide My eyes from you;
Even though YOU MAKE MANY PRAYERS
I WILL NOT HEAR.
Your HANDS ARE FULL OF [H]BLOOD.
16“Wash yourselves, make yourselves clean;
Put away the evil of your doings from before My eyes.
Cease to do evil,
17LEARN TO DO GOOD;
Seek justice,
REBUKE [I]THE OPPRESSOR;
[j]DEFEND THE FATHERLESS,
PLEAD FOR THE WIDOW. …” (Isaiah 1:10 – 17, NKJV)
The Charity Doctrine is what it means to know God as Blessed Prophet Jeremiah Reveals likewise:
“… Did not your father eat and drink,
And do JUSTICE AND RIGHTEOUSNESS?
Then IT WAS WELL WITH HIM.
16HE [F]JUDGED THE CAUSE OF THE POOR AND NEEDY;
THEN IT WAS WELL.
WAS NOT THIS KNOWING ME?” SAYS THE LORD.
17“Yet your eyes and your heart are for nothing but your covetousness,
For shedding innocent blood,
And practicing oppression and violence.” …” (Jeremiah 22:15 – 17, NKJV)
Conclusion
Even in the Context of “Loving our Enemies” and also “Loving those who don’t love us back”, the Divine Instruction is still the “Charity Doctrine” toward them to demonstrate this “Love”, Verses:
“… 44[o]But I say to you, LOVE YOUR ENEMIES, bless those who curse you, DO GOOD to THOSE WHO HATE YOU, and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you, 45that you may be sons of your Father in heaven; for He makes His sun rise on the evil and on the good, and sends rain on the just and on the unjust. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 5:44 – 45, NKJV)
“… But if YOU LOVE THOSE WHO LOVE YOU, what credit is that to you? For even sinners love those who love them. And if you DO GOOD to those who do good to you, what credit is that to you? For even sinners do the same …” (Luke 6:32 – 33 , NKJV)
What “Do Good” is Christ Referring to in Verses above even toward our enemies? The “Charity Doctrine” Acts of “borrow (give) them money”, “do not resist the evil person from using you” (praying for them instead) and even “letting them have your cloak (things)”, Verses (as part of His Famous “I tell you” Commands of Perfection):
“…39But I TELL YOU NOT TO RESIST AN EVIL PERSON. But whoever slaps you on your right cheek, turn the other to him also. 40If anyone wants to sue you and TAKE AWAY YOUR TUNIC, LET HIM HAVE YOUR CLOAK ALSO. 41And whoever compels you to go one mile, go with him two. 42GIVE to him who asks you, and from him WHO WANTS TO BORROW from you DO NOT TURN AWAY. 43“You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ 44[o]But I SAY TO YOU, LOVE YOUR ENEMIES, … 47And if you greet your [p]brethren only, WHAT DO YOU DO MORE THAN OTHERS? …” (Matthew 5:39 – 44, 47, NKJV)
or Blessed Luke Records some further details of this ‘Charity Doctrine’ say of ‘Giving Money’ (or equivalently business / helps) toward “enemies” as follows:
“…27“But I say to you who hear: LOVE YOUR ENEMIES, DO GOOD to those who hate you, 28bless those who curse you, and pray for those PRAY FOR THOSE WHO SPITEFULLY USE YOU. 29To him who strikes you on the one cheek, offer the other also. And from him who takes away your cloak, do not withhold your tunic either. 30GIVE to everyone who asks of you. And from him who takes away your goods DO NOT ASK THEM BACK. 31And just as you want men to do to you, you also do to them likewise. 32“But if you love those who love you, what credit is that to you? For even sinners love those who love them. 33And if you do good to those who do good to you, what credit is that to you? For even sinners do the same. 34And if YOU LEND to those from whom you HOPE TO RECEIVE BACK, what credit is that to you? For even sinners lend to sinners to receive as much back. 35But LOVE YOUR ENEMIES, DO GOOD, AND LEND, [h]HOPING FOR NOTHING IN RETURN; and your reward will be great, and you will be sons of the Most High. For He is kind to the unthankful and evil. 36Therefore be merciful, just as your Father also is merciful. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 6:27 – 36, NKJV)
Please notice as regarding “Knowing God” (Verse in Image Hosea 6:6’s ‘Knowledge of God more than burnt offerings phrase’), the last verse above in Jeremiah 22:16 links it to doing the “Charity Doctrine” toward the “poor” and likewise in Christ’s Reply for ‘what to do (as God’s Will) for ETERNAL LIFE?” in Verses below (Luke 10:25), Christ uses the Analogy of a “Samaritan” (whom He Says do ‘not know Him’ Theologically as per John 4:19 – 24) but yet Doing this “Charity Doctrine” of “Love your Neighbor” Physically with this World’s Goods was considered below as sufficient ‘Knowledge of God’ & that ‘the Good Samaritan’ (a person with possibly an imperfect knowledge of God Theologically) gets “Eternal Life” for “Fulfilling God’s Will” in this (Matthew 7:21) as Christ says, in the end of these Verses below as “… Do this, and you will live …” (Luke 10:28 & Luke 10:37), Verses:
“… 25And behold, a certain lawyer stood up and tested Him, saying, “Teacher, what shall I DO TO INHERIT ETERNAL LIFE?” 26He said to him, “What is WRITTEN IN THE LAW? What is YOUR READING OF IT?” 27So he answered and said, “ ‘You shall LOVE THE LORD YOUR GOD with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your strength, and with all your mind,’ and ‘YOUR NEIGHBOR AS YOURSELF.’ ” 28And He said to him, “You have answered rightly; DO THIS AND YOU WILL LIVE.” 29But he, wanting to justify himself, said to Jesus, “And WHO IS MY NEIGHBOR?” 30Then JESUS ANSWERED and said: “A certain man went down from Jerusalem to Jericho, and fell among thieves, who stripped him of his clothing, wounded him, and departed, leaving him half dead. 31Now by chance a certain priest came down that road. And when he saw him, he passed by on the other side. 32Likewise a Levite, when he arrived at the place, came and looked, and passed by on the other side. 33But a certain Samaritan, as he journeyed, came where he was. And when he saw him, he had COMPASSION. 34So he went to him and BANDAGED HIS WOUNDS, pouring on oil and wine; and he set him on his own animal, brought him to an inn, and TOOK CARE OF HIM. 35On the next day, when he departed, he took out two denarii, gave them to the innkeeper, and said to him, ‘TAKE CARE OF HIM; and WHATEVER MORE YOU SPEND, when I come again, I WILL REPAY YOU.’ 36So which of these three do you think was NEIGHBOR to him who fell among the thieves? 37And he said, “He who SHOWED MERCY on him.” Then JESUS SAID to him, “GO AND DO LIKEWISE.”…” (Luke 10:25 – 37, NKJV)
Judgment Day Verses agree that this is the Purpose of God’s Will in our lives which is to show Mercy toward others via the Charity Doctrine:
“… 34Then shall the King say unto them on his right hand, Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world: 35For I was an hungred, and ye gave me meat: I was thirsty, and ye gave me drink: I was a stranger, and ye took me in: 36Naked, and ye clothed me: I was sick, and ye visited me: I was in prison, and ye came unto me. 37Then shall the righteous answer him, saying, Lord, when saw we thee an hungred, and fed thee? or thirsty, and gave thee drink? 38When saw we thee a stranger, and took thee in? or naked, and clothed thee? 39Or when saw we thee sick, or in prison, and came unto thee? 40And the King shall answer and say unto them, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 25:34 – 40, KJV)
Peace to you
The Mysterious Possible Christ Universalism Quote by St. Irenaeous of Lyons to an Apostolic Father of the Church
Source Post:
https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=10160707715837784&id=651792783
Who is he? And that quote in Image in full & with source is detailed out below:
“… Christ, who was called the Son of God before the ages, was manifested in the fulness of time, in order that He might cleanse us through His blood, who were under the power of sin, presenting us as pure sons to His Father, if we yield ourselves obediently to the chastisement of the Spirit. AND IN THE END OF TIME HE SHALL COME TO DO AWAY WITH ALL EVIL, AND TO RECONCILE ALL THINGS [Colossians 1:16,20*], in order that there may be AN END OF ALL IMPURITIES. … ” – Blessed St. Irenaeous, Bishop of Lyons, a Hearer of Blessed St. Polycarp the Disciple of Blessed St. John who wrote the Book of Revelation (c. 130 AD – c. 202 AD, Fragment XXXIX, FRAGMENTS FROM THE LOST WRITINGS OF IRENAEUS)
Translation Source:
http://www.earlychristianwritings.com/text/irenaeus-fragments.html
Source for image:
fb://photo/1884409078400398?set=a.151741468333843
*St. Irenaeous is probably explaining these Bible Verses’ Meaning:
“… For by Him all things were created that are in heaven and that are on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or principalities or powers. All things were created through Him and for Him. … 20and by Him to reconcile all things to Himself, by Him, whether things on earth or things in heaven, having made peace through the blood of His cross. …” (Colossians 1:16, 20, NKJV)
He is not the only one as even St. Epiphanius (who opposed iconography and just like St. Irenaeous have “no” prayers to Virgin Mary/Angels/Saints in their writings, so Protestants may consider them) seems to understand Colossians 1:16, 20 in a similar manner, to quote:
“… In a word, it purifies all things for itself, things visible and invisible, thrones, dominions, principalities authorities, powers. But in all is the same holy voice crying, “Holy, Holy, Holy,” from glory to glory, < to glorify > the Father in the Son, and the Son in the Father with the Holy Spirit, to whom be glory and might unto the ages of ages. Amen. And he who so believes will say “So be it! So be it. ” …” – Blessed St. Epiphanius, Bishop of Salamis and the ‘Hammer of Heretics’
That quote in full below:
“… But third it gives the ordinances of the spirit, as though, in the Gospels, arranging the mercy seat and Holy of Holies for its dwelling, but as its holy tabernacle a holy people < who * > have none but the righteous as their companions.10,7 In this people there dwells one infinite Godhead, one imperishable Godhead, one incomprehensible Godhead, unfathomable, inexpressible, invisible. It alone knows itself; it reveals itself to whom it will It raises up its witnesses, calls, predestines and glorifies them, lifts them up from hades, hallows them. (8) For its own glory and faith it makes these three one: things in heaven, on earth, and under the earth; spirit, soul and flesh; faith, hope and charity; past, present and future; the AGES, the ETERNAL AGES, and the AGES of AGES; Sabbaths of Sabbaths; the circumcision of the flesh, the circumcision of the heart, and “the circumcision of Christ by the putting off of the body of the sins .’’ 202 (9) In a word, it PURIFIES ALL THINGS for itself, things visible and invisible, thrones, dominions, principalities authorities, powers. But IN ALL is the same holy voice crying, “Holy, Holy, Holy,” from glory to glory, < to glorify > the Father in the Son, and the Son in the Father with the Holy Spirit, to whom be glory and might unto the AGES of AGES. Amen. And he who so believes will say “So be it! So be it. ” …” – Blessed St. Epiphanius, Bishop of Salamis and the ‘Hammer of Heretics’, (c. 310 AD – c. 403 AD, ‘PNEUMATOMACHI’, “Panarion or Medicine-Chest”, Points 7.1 – 7.3, Pages 498 – 499)
Source:
https://archive.org/stream/EpiphaniusPanarionBksIIIII1/Epiphanius%20-%20_Panarion_%20-%20Bks%20II%20%26%20III%20-%201_djvu.txt
St. Epiphanius understands Colossians 1:20 as being Prophetic toward God Who “purifies all things for itself” where the “all” refers not to Christians things only but certainly includes them first as he defines this “all” in verse Colossians 1:20 to refer to exactly the same as the Holy & Blessed Apostle Paul did in Colossians 1:16 prior which is in his words, “things visible and invisible, thrones, dominions, principalities authorities, powers.” (the phrase visible & invisible itself refers to both good & evil rational beings) to the end that all these will eventually Submit to God Finally crying out as “in all is the same holy voice crying, “Holy, Holy, Holy,”.
Note: The three “Holy” is indication of the Most Holy Trinity, i. e. “Holy, Holy, Holy” refers to “Holy to God the Father”, “Holy to God the Son” and “Holy to God the Holy Spirit” as some ancient Writers have pointed out.
Conclusion – Any Apostolic Fathers of the Church’s Quote may point to it? Yes, as follows:
Christ Draws (Drags as in Catching Fish in a Net as it means in Koine Greek) ‘All Men’ as St. Ignatius applies the General Word ‘Draw All’ or ‘Draw All things’ in John 12:32 to the Subset of ‘All Men’ as follows:
“… and once more, “If I be lifted up from the earth, I will draw all men unto Me [John 12:32].” The Word therefore did dwell in flesh, for “Wisdom built herself an house.” The Word raised up again His own temple on the third day, when it had been destroyed by the Jews fighting against Christ. The Word, when His flesh was lifted up, after the manner of the brazen serpent in the wilderness [John 3:14], drew all men to Himself for their eternal salvation [John 12:32]…” – Blessed St. Ignatius, Bishop of Antioch, nicknamed ‘God-Bearing’, An Apostolic Father being the direct Disciple of the Blessed Apostle St. John, Martyr for Christ (c. 35 AD – c. 108 AD, Epistle to the Smyrnaeans, Chapter II)
Source: http://www.earlychristianwritings.com/text/ignatius-smyrnaeans-longer.html
Please notice carefully that St. Ignatius mentions that this ‘Drawing of All [Men]’ by Christ in John 12:32 results in the Final Salvation of ‘All Men’, in his words, “… drew all men to Himself for their eternal salvation…” as Stated in a past tense Prophetically as a Done Reality to Him.
Note: Neither does any of St. Ignatius of Antioch’s Writings have any prayers to Virgin Mary/Saints/Angels and so Protestants may consider him as well.
Perfection of God Means God Saves ‘All Men’ eventually as Basic or General Salvation is likened to the ‘Rain falling both on the Just & Unjust’ and so ‘enmity on account of faith is with Love’
“… ” You ought therefore to “hate those that hate God, and to waste away [with grief] on account of His enemies.” I do not mean that you should beat them or persecute them, as do the Gentiles “that know not the Lord and God; ” but that you should regard them as your enemies, and separate yourselves from them, while yet you admonish them, and exhort them to repentance, if it may be they will hear, if it may be they will submit themselves. For our God is a lover of mankind, and “will have all men to be saved, and to come to the knowledge of the truth.” [1 Timothy 2:4] Wherefore “He makes His sun to rise upon the evil and on the good, and sendeth rain on the just and on the unjust; ” of whose kindness the Lord, wishing us also to be imitators, says, “Be ye perfect, even as also your Father that is in heaven is perfect.” [Matthew 5:44 – 48]…” – Blessed St. Ignatius, Bishop of Antioch, nicknamed ‘God-Bearing’, An Apostolic Father being the direct Disciple of the Blessed Apostle St. John, Martyr for Christ (c. 35 AD – c. 108 AD, Epistle to the Philadelphians, Chapter III)
Source: http://www.earlychristianwritings.com/text/ignatius-philadelphians-longer.html
Context: The phrase “… our God is a lover of mankind, and “will have all men to be saved … His sun to rise upon the evil and on the good, and sendeth rain on the just and on the unjust; …even as also your Father that is in heaven is perfect…” clearly Proves that St. Ignatius Believes that ‘All Men’ (in the Context of ‘God being a Lover of Mankind’, hence it means all human beings ever created) will be Saved eventually.
Nobody knows for sure either way so let us guard our tongue and let God Decide be it Eternal Hell or Christ Centered Universalism in the End.
Peace to you
Inheritance of His Kingdom Mystery – Why Serve God?
Source Post:
https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=10160844752077784&id=651792783
The biggest liar is one who says that he does good for no reason. Why? Look at his life and words: you will find him expecting ‘blessings’ and ‘good things’ to happen to his life and his family which clearly contradicts that “he expects nothing”, right?
The Only One Who Did Good without Expecting Anything is Lord Jesus Christ because only God Can Do that, Verse:
“… 3Let nothing be done through selfish ambition or conceit, but in lowliness of mind let each esteem others better than himself. 4Let each of you look out not only for his own interests, but also for the interests of others. 5Let this mind be in you which was also in CHRIST JESUS, 6WHO, BEING IN THE FORM of GOD, DID NOT CONSIDER IT [B]ROBBERY TO BE EQUAL WITH GOD, 7but [c]made Himself of no reputation, taking the form of a bondservant, and coming in the likeness of men. 8And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself and became OBEDIENT TO THE POINT OF DEATH, even the death of the cross. 9Therefore God also has highly exalted Him and given Him the name which is above every name, 10that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of those in heaven, and of those on earth, and of those under the earth, 11and that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. …” (Philippians 2:3 – 11, NKJV)
For us, we obey God to Gain the “Reward of the Inheritance”:
“… 22Bondservants, obey in all things your masters according to the flesh, not with eyeservice, as men-pleasers, but in sincerity of heart, fearing God. 23And whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men, 24knowing that from the Lord you will receive the REWARD OF THE INHERITANCE; for[a] YOU SERVE THE LORD CHRIST. 25But he who does wrong will be repaid for what he has done, and there is no partiality. …” (Colossians 3:22 – 25, NKJV)
Conclusion
Lie: I serve God without expecting anything from Him.
Truth: We serve God by expecting nothing to be repaid on earth but look forward to the “Reward” in “Heaven” especially to become “His Sons/Children”.
Verse:
“… But LOVE YOUR ENEMIES, DO GOOD, AND LEND, HOPING FOR NOTHING IN RETURN; and YOUR REWARD WILL BE GREAT, and YOU WILL BE SONS OF THE MOST HIGH. For He is kind to the unthankful and evil. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 6:35, NKJV)
Please notice carefully a few things from the Verse above:
1) We are to “Love our enemies” by doing Good” and even “Lending” money to them.
2) We are to hope for “nothing in return” on earth (i.e. ‘not’ hope ‘nor’ claim any ‘blessings’ especially ‘not monetary blessings’ in His Most Holy Name as this Scripture prohibits such an action and doesn’t call it as faith; faith is clearly “hoping nothing in return on earth” for”obeying God” according to Christ Himself in Verse above as He Cancelled out many Old Testament opposites via His Famous “… BUT I TELL YOU COMMANDS …” in these Verses).
3) “His Sons” are only those who have “Loved their enemies in Action” like that. So if any Christianity kills its enemies and all that risks to be denied. Example:
Common Fallacy: Dying in the Military is consider losing your life so you can save it.
Truth: No New Testament Bible Verse Points to that. In fact, killing your enemies contradicts loving your enemy (Matthew 5:43 – 48) and also contradicts the “do not resist the evil person” as well as the cancellation of the “eye for an eye Judgment to purge evil” by Christ Himself for this New Covenant in Verses below:
“… 38“YOU HAVE HEARD THAT IT WAS SAID, ‘An EYE FOR AN EYE and a tooth for a tooth.’ 39BUT I TELL YOU NOT TO RESIST AN EVIL PERSON. But whoever slaps you on your right cheek, turn the other to him also. …” (Matthew 5:38, NKJV)
Which Old Testament Verse or ‘… you have heard it was said …’ is Christ Cancelling for the New Covenant in Verse above? The one below when quoted in full points to the typical logic that if we don’t carry that Judgment evil is not purged (and that’s what Christ is Cancelling so that we can be “Perfect”), Verses:
“… 19then you shall do to him as he thought to have done to his brother; so you SHALL PUT AWAY THE EVIL FROM AMONG YOU. 20And those who remain shall hear and fear, and hereafter they shall not again commit such evil among you. 21Your eye shall not pity: life shall be for life, EYE FOR EYE, tooth for tooth, hand for hand, foot for foot. …” (Deuteronomy 19:19 – 21, NKJV)
This Cancellation in full:
“…38“YOU HAVE HEARD THAT IT WAS SAID, ‘An EYE FOR AN EYE and a tooth for a tooth.’ 39But I TELL YOU NOT TO RESIST AN EVIL PERSON. But whoever slaps you on your right cheek, turn the other to him also. 40If anyone wants to sue you and TAKE AWAY YOUR TUNIC, LET HIM HAVE YOUR CLOAK ALSO. 41And whoever compels you to go one mile, go with him two. 42GIVE to him who asks you, and from him WHO WANTS TO BORROW from you DO NOT TURN AWAY. 43“You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ 44[o]But I SAY TO YOU, LOVE YOUR ENEMIES, … 47And if you greet your [p]brethren only, WHAT DO YOU DO MORE THAN OTHERS? …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 5:38 – 44, 47, NKJV)
Please remember that if you lose your life obeying the Gospel Words especially those which are directly by Christ you will gain the life in the age to come to be part of the First Resurrection (Revelation 20:4 – 6) which is alluded in Verse below:
“… For whoever desires to save his life will lose it, but WHOEVER LOSES HIS LIFE FOR MY SAKE will find it. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 16:25, NKJV)
Comment: The military service spoken of earlier is “not” losing one’s life for Christ’s Sake because He Commanded to “Love your enemies” including the “Evil person” by “not resisting him”. So when we do so and evil wins by killing us or injuring us, only then we Fulfill this Verse (for this Situation) and the Verse applies in that we did it for “Christ’s Sake” or “for His Command”. There’s no join the military command or kill the evil command by Christ to be done by Christians in this New Testament. In fact, the opposite is commanded directly where Christ first asked the Disciples to “buy sword” for the sole reason of teaching them “to not use it when they’re attacked” in Verses below:
“… Then He said to them, “But now, he who has a money bag, let him take it, and likewise a knapsack; and he who has no sword, let him sell his garment and buy one. …” (Luke 22:36, NKJV)
“… But Jesus said to him, “Put your sword in its place, for all who take the sword will perish by the sword. …” (Matthew 26:52, NKJV)
The Curse of ‘dying by the sword’ for those who carry it (even if it’s to kill or injure evil as a Judgment as Apostle Peter was trying to do that but still Christ Rebukes him in Matthew 26:52) applies either literally now or can be in other ways (e.g. mental or psychological issues or disease or if unsaved, Judgment into the afterlife).
The simple truth is those who enlist as a soldier are not laying down their life for Christ (as only then Matthew 16:25 applies) but rather are ‘dying to save themselves or their families’ from ‘their enemies’. Can you see it?
In other words the opposite is actually true namely, they are contradicting Christ’s Words to ‘love your enemies or don’t resist and evil person or as He Cancelled the eye for an eye Judgment’ (Matthew 5:38-44) just to “save their lives” or ‘way of life’ or ‘families’ by ‘killing their enemies’ which is NOT for “Christ’s Sake” (as He Commanded the Opposite) but is for “their own beliefs’ sake & to safeguard their own selves and families’ sake’.
That’s why First Christianity Quotes in link below teach likewise:
40 Early Church Quotes on Violence, Enemy Love, & Patriotism
Why this is Important? Only those who “do the Will of the Father enter Heaven” while the “many” (majority of Christians who did prophesy in His Name to cast out demons or do miracles) may be “Denied” due to “Lawlessness” in this aspect to ‘Fail to love their enemies’ too, Verses:
“… 19EVERY TREE that does NOT BEAR GOOD FRUIT is CUT DOWN AND THROWN INTO THE FIRE. 20Therefore by their fruits you will know them. 21“Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father in heaven. 22MANY will say to Me in that day, ‘Lord, Lord, have we NOT PROPHESIED in Your name, CAST OUT DEMONS in Your name, and DONE MANY WONDERS in Your name?’ 23And then I will declare to them, ‘I NEVER KNEW YOU; depart from Me, you who practice LAWLESSNESS!’
24“Therefore WHOEVER HEARS THESE SAYINGS OF MINE, and DOES THEM, I will liken him to a WISE MAN who BUILT HIS HOUSE ON THE ROCK: …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 7:13 – 24, NKJV)
Please notice carefully that the “Tree” that bears “Good Fruit” and one who is UNDENIED is one that Scripture Describes as “… WHOEVER HEARS THESE SAYINGS OF MINE, and DOES THEM, I will liken him to a WISE MAN who BUILT HIS HOUSE ON THE ROCK: …” in Matthew 7:24. Notice also that Matthew 7:24 with Matthew 7:23 Reveals that the definition of “Lawlessness” is not Doing What “Christ Commanded” such as ‘failing to love your enemies’ (killing them even) and failing to cancel the eye for an eye Judgment against evil as Christ Commanded to “not resist an evil person” (in Matthew 5:38 – 48).
4) Christ Doesn’t prohibit expecting “Reward in Heaven” from the “Father in Heaven” but in facts points us to Hope for it where the Greatest Reward is to become “His Sons” which is understood as ones who “Inherit the Kingdom of Heaven”, example Verses:
i) Only those who “Overcome” by their “Faith with Obedience” Inherit the Kingdom
“… He who overcomes shall inherit all things, and I will be his God and he shall be My son …” (Revelation 21:7, NKJV)
ii) Believers inherit the Kingdom of Heaven as Kings and Priests
“… And have made us kings and priests to our God; And we shall reign on the earth.” …” (Revelation 5:10, NKJV)
iii) Believers may Inherit the Kingdom of Heaven based on three levels
“… But others fell on good ground and yielded a crop: some a hundredfold, some sixty, some thirty. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 13:8, NKJV)
iv) There is only one Verse in the Bible which Teaches how to become a “Hundredfold” Fruit
The Bible doesn’t explicitly Explain the differences between the Thirty, Sixty Vs Hundredfold ones but the Verses below is the only set where Christ Himself Reveals the Secret of the “HUNDREDFOLD” ones as follows (please notice the Word “HUNDREDFOLD” carefully in Matthew 19:29 below):
“… 27Then Peter answered and said to Him, “See, we have LEFT ALL and FOLLOWED YOU. Therefore what shall we have?” 28So Jesus said to them, “Assuredly I say to you, that in the REGENERATION, when the Son of Man sits on the throne of His glory, you who have followed Me will also sit on twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel. 29And EVERYONE who has LEFT HOUSES or brothers or sisters or father or mother or WIFE or children or LANDS, for MY NAME’S SAKE, shall RECEIVE a HUNDREDFOLD, and INHERIT ETERNAL LIFE. 30But MANY who are FIRST will be LAST, and the LAST FIRST. …” (Matthew 19:27 – 30, NKJV)
Note: Did you also notice that to attain to the “HUNDREDFOLD” Level of Inheritance of His Kingdom, Christ does “not” point to Number of Converts or all that but only these aspects:
i. LEFT HOUSES or Lands for doing the Gospel Work which implies using Finances to do the Gospel Commands. The direct Context of the Verses above is the continued challenge of Christ to the Rich Man to attain toward Perfection by “… Selling what he has and giving to the Poor …” as Christ Spoke a few Verses earlier in Matthew 19:18 – 26.
ii. Left Family for doing the Gospel Work
iii. The Context of “left wife” in Verse above implies both the meaning of ‘remainng unmarried’ (hence the concept of remaining unmarried for the Gospel Work’s Sake as First Christianity tradition taught) and also literally leaving one’s wife to do Gospel Work. That’s why being “unmarried” and doing Gospel Commands is better than marrying and doing Gospel Commands as Apostle St. Paul himself Wrote in Verse below:
“… 28 But even if you do marry, you have not sinned; and if a virgin marries, she has not sinned. Nevertheless such will have TROUBLE IN THE FLESH, but I WOULD SPARE YOU. … 32But I want you to be without care. He who is UNMARRIED CARES FOR THE THINGS OF THE LORD—how he may PLEASE THE LORD. 33But HE WHO IS MARRIED CARES about the THINGS OF THE WORLD—how he may PLEASE HIS WIFE. … 38So then he who GIVES HER IN MARRIAGE DOES WELL, but he WHO DOES NOT GIVE HER IN MARRIAGE DOES BETTER. …” (1 Corinthians 7:28, 32 – 33, 38, NKJV)
iv. Based on these aspects Christ Reveals Majestically that the “first will be last” and “last first” implying hierarchy in His Kingdom for both “doing and teaching” others “His Direct New Testament Commands”:
“… 19Whoever therefore breaks one of the least of these commandments, and teaches men so, shall be called least in the kingdom of heaven; but whoever does and teaches them, he shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven. 20For I say to you, that UNLESS YOUR RIGHTEOUSNESS EXCEEDS THE RIGHTEOUSNESS OF THE SCRIBES AND PHARISEES, YOU WILL BY NO MEANS ENTER THE KINGDOM OF HEAVEN. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 5:19 – 20, NKJV)
Many Christians or converts fail to become the thirty, sixty or hundredfold fruit because they’re too busy seeking after to “… Become Rich …” and are “… Worried about this life being caught up with worldly pursuits …” as Christ Warned below:
“… but the WORRIES OF THE WORLD, and the DECEITFULNESS OF RICHES, and the DESIRES FOR OTHER THINGS enter in and choke the word, and it becomes UNFRUITFUL. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ, God in Flesh (Mark 4:19, NASB)
v) Seeking His Kingdom includes Selling what God Gives to us to do CHARITY WORKS (i.e. the “Charity Doctrine”) to attain to the Reward in Heaven which is unrevealed yet but called as “Treasure in Heavens”. Such ones are said to be “Chosen” to be “Given the Kingdom of Heaven” according to Verses below:
“… 31“But SEEK HIS KINGDOM, and THESE THINGS will be ADDED TO YOU. 32“Do not be afraid, little flock, for your Father has chosen gladly to give you the kingdom. 33“SELL YOUR POSSESSIONS and GIVE TO CHARITY; make yourselves money belts which do not wear out, an UNFAILING TREASURE IN HEAVEN, where no thief comes near nor moth destroys. 34“For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. 35“Be dressed in readiness, and KEEP YOUR LAMPS LIT. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 12:31 – 35, NASB)
Peace to you
Safe Route Scripturally
Source Post:
https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=10160846114827784&id=651792783
Good point to think about (in image). That’s why I dare “not” claim such things.
Better to stick to the “Written Word” lest I accidentally commit any Blasphemy toward God by claiming so (what if one commits the unpardonable sin of the Blasphemy of the Holy Spirit whilst doing so (Matthew 12:31 – 32)? I am not taking any such risks).
And regarding “Future/Prophecy” things which I am not sure 100%, I just list out the “possibilities” and let God Decide it One Day. Here’s a Verse which allows us to “not” Judge any “future prophecy” meaning that you don’t need to judge it to be 100% like this or that regarding “Prophecy” (“Context”):
“… Therefore JUDGE NOTHING BEFORE THE TIME, UNTIL THE LORD COMES, who will both bring to light the hidden things of darkness and reveal the counsels of the hearts. Then each one’s praise will come from God. 6Now these things, brethren, I have figuratively transferred to myself and Apollos for your sakes, that you may learn in us NOT TO THINK BEYOND WHAT IS WRITTEN, that none of you may be [c]puffed up on behalf of one against the other. 7For who [d]MAKES YOU DIFFER FROM ANOTHER? And what do you have that you did not receive? Now if you did indeed receive it, why do you boast as if you had not received it? …” (1 Corinthians 4:5 – 7, NKJV)
So it’s clear from Verse above that God is not Going to Judge us regarding our accuracy in understanding Biblical Prophecy if we admit that we are not going to judge which way it’s going to happen as the option is given to do so in this Verse.
According to the Verses above, the most dangerous thing is to “think beyond what is Written” where for example many modern Denominations especially those that uphold the “progressive revelation Theology” have claimed & done things beyond what is Written in New Testament Verses. They could be right or wrong but I rather not take these risks with them.
Peace to you
Safe Route Scripturally – I repeat, please don’t Judge
Prince of Preachers – Charles Spurgeon is against the “… Holy Spirit told me ….” Type of “Progressive Revelations” as per quote in image.
Firstly, the quote in image is real. You can find it in link below too:
https://www.spurgeon.org/resource-library/sermons/the-comforter/#flipbook/
He is quoting the Verse below:
“… 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 things that I said to you. …” (John 14:26, NKJV)
If he is right, are the modern Christian denominations committing some type of Blasphemy of the Holy Spirit? (Matthew 12:31 – 32)
Or if he is wrong, is he committing the Blasphemy of the Holy Spirit?
My personal view: I don’t know and so I choose “not” to judge either way as per Verse below:
“… 1“Judge[a] not, that you be not judged. 2For with what [b]judgment you judge, you will be judged; and with the measure you use, it will be measured back to you. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 7:1 – 2, NKJV)
I will await Judgment Day for God to Decide who was right:
“… For nothing is secret that will not be revealed, nor anything hidden that will not be known and come to light. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 8:17, NKJV)
If you can discern everything Biblically now you don’t need Judgment Day and the Verse above doesn’t apply to you since you already know it, right?
Peace to you
Some Say Salvation is for All eventually – I am not sure but it’s Possible – Testimony of Blessed St. Clement of Alexandria the successive Head of the First Oldest Bible School in Christianity
Example Possible Christ Centered Universalism Quotes by Blessed St. Clement of Alexandria:
Lord Jesus Christ – Lord of All because He Will Save All
i. Lord of All – Savior of All
“… . Or He does care for all, which is befitting for Him who has become Lord of all. For He is Saviour; not [the Saviour] of some, and of others not. But in proportion to the adaptation possessed by each, He has dispensed His beneficence both to Greeks and Barbarians, even to those of them that were predestinated, and in due time called, the faithful and elect… And how is He Saviour and Lord, if not the Saviour and Lord of all? But He is the Saviour of those who have believed, because of their l wishing to know; and the Lord of those who have not believed, till, being enabled to confess him, they obtain the peculiar and appropriate boon which comes by Him…” – St. Clement of Alexandria (c.150 AD – c. 215 AD, Stromata, Book 7)
Translation Source:
http://www.earlychristianwritings.com/text/clement-stromata-book7.html
ii. Lord Jesus Christ Saves even from Hades now to the Final Lake of Fire (Gehenna)
“… There is an eye of justice, which sees all. For two ways, as we deem, to Hades lead- One for the good, the other for the bad. But if the earth hides both for ever, then Go plunder, steal, rob, and be turbulent. But err not. For in Hades judgment is, Which God the Lord of all will execute, Whose name too dreadful is for me to name, Who gives to sinners length of earthly life. If any mortal thinks, that day by day, While doing ill, he eludes the gods keen sight, His thoughts are evil; and when justice has The leisure, he shall then detected be So thinking. Look, whoe’er you be that say That there is not a God. There is, there is. If one, by nature evil, evil does, Let him redeem the time; for such as he Shall by and by due punishment receive.” And with this agrees the tragedy in the following lines: “For there shall come, shall come that point of time, When Ether, golden-eyed, shall ope its store Of treasured fire; and the devouring flame, Raging, shall burn all things on earth below, And all above.” . . .And after a little he adds: “And when the whole world fades, And vanished all the abyss of ocean’s waves, And earth of trees is bare; and wrapt in flames, The air no more begets the winged tribes; Then He who all destroyed, shall all restore.” – – St. Clement of Alexandria (c.150 AD – c. 215 AD, Stromata, Book 5)
Translation Source:
http://www.earlychristianwritings.com/text/clement-stromata-book5.html
St. Clement of Alexandria is quoting above the Part which even the Ancient Philosophers got right.
Please notice the ‘Salvation from the Lake of Fire Part’:
Focus Phrases: “… he devouring flame, Raging, shall burn all things on earth below, And all above… He who all destroyed, shall all restore” (agreeing to Revelation 21:5 where God Makes All things New including those Burnt in this Lake of Fire/Gehenna during the Final Judgment).
Another Quote:
“… Ver. 2. “And not only for our sins,”–that is for those of the faithful,–is the Lord the propitiator, does he say, “but also for the whole world.” He, indeed, saves all; but some [He saves], converting them by punishments; others, however, who follow voluntarily [He saves] with dignity of honour; so “that every knee should bow to Him, of things in heaven, and things on earth, and things under the earth;” that is, angels, men, and souls that before His advent have departed from this temporal life. …” – St. Clement of Alexandria (‘Fragments’)
Source:
http://www.earlychristianwritings.com/text/clement-fragments.html
“and He Himself is the propitiation for our sins; and not for ours only, but also for those of the whole world.” – apostle John (1 John 2:2, NASB)
Another Possible afterlife Salvation into lower abodes as the Shepherd of Hermas Writing indicated similarly is quoted by him in the quote below for 1 Peter 3:18 – 20 first:
Gospel Preached to the Dead Souls in Hades
To quote:
‘… Wherefore the Lord preached the Gospel to those in Hades. Accordingly the Scripture says, “Hades says to Destruction, We have not seen His form, but we have heard His voice.” It is not plainly the place, which, the words above say, heard the voice, but those who have been put in Hades, and have abandoned themselves to destruction, as persons who have thrown themselves voluntarily from a ship into the sea. They, then, are those that hear the divine power and voice. For who in his senses can suppose the souls of the righteous and those of sinners in the same condemnation, charging Providence with injustice?
But how? Do not [the Scriptures] show that. the Lord preached the Gospel to those that perished in the flood, or rather had been chained, and to those kept “in ward and guard”? And it has been shown also, in the second book of the Stromata, that the apostles, following the Lord, preached the Gospel to those in Hades. For it was requisite, in my opinion, that as here, so also there, the best of the disciples should be imitators of the Master; so that He should bring to repentance those belonging to the Hebrews, and they the Gentiles; that is, those who had lived in righteousness according to the Law and Philosophy, who had ended life not perfectly, but sinfully. For it was suitable to the divine administration, that those possessed of greater worth in righteousness, and whose life had been pre-eminent, on repenting of their transgressions, though found in another place, yet being confessedly of the number of the people of God Almighty, should be saved, each one according to his individual knowledge.
And, as I think, the Saviour also exerts His might because it is His work to save; which accordingly He also did by drawing to salvation those who became willing, by the preaching [of the Gospel], to believe on Him, wherever they were. If, then, the Lord descended to Hades for no other end but to preach the Gospel, as He did descend; it was either to preach the Gospel to all or to the Hebrews only. If, accordingly, to all, then all who believe shall be saved, although they may be of the Gentiles, on making their profession there; since God’s pun ishments are saving and disciplinary, leading to conversion, and choosing rather the repentance thorn the death of a sinner; and especially since souls, although darkened by passions, when released from their bodies, are able to perceive more clearly, because of their being no longer obstructed by the paltry flesh.
If, then, He preached only to the Jews, who wanted the knowledge and faith of the Saviour, it is plain that, since God is no respecter of persons, the apostles also, as here, so there preached the Gospel to those of the heathen who were ready for conversion. And it is well said by the Shepherd, “They went down with them therefore into the water, and again ascended. But these descended alive, and again ascended alive. But those who had fallen asleep, descended dead, but ascended alive.” Further the Gospel says, “that many bodies of those that slept arose,” — plainly as having been translated to a better state. There took place, then, a universal movement and translation through the economy of the Saviour. …’ – St. Clement of Alexandria (c. 150 AD – c. 215 AD, Stromata, Book 6, Chapter VI)
Translation Source:
http://www.earlychristianwritings.com/text/clement-stromata-book6.html
Verses:
“because Christ also sufferedd once for sins, the righteous for the unrighteous, so that He might bring you to God, having been put to death indeed in the flesh, but having been made alive in the spirit, in which also having gone, He preached to the spirits in prison at one time having disobeyed, when the longsuffering of God was waiting in the days of Noah, of the ark being prepared, in which a few—that is, eight souls—were saved through water,” – apostle Peter (1 Peter 3:18 – 20, Berean Literal Bible, BLB)
How did St. Clement of Alexandria understand 1 Peter 4:6?
“… For to this end the gospel was proclaimed even to the dead, so that they might be judged indeed according to men in the flesh, but they might live in the spirit according to God. …” (1 Peter 4:6, Berean Literal Bible, BLB)
St. Clement of Alexandria seems to understand 1 Peter 4:6 to apply even today and not only the One Time Descent of Christ into Hades
To quote:
“… So I think it is demonstrated that the God being good, and the Lord powerful, they save with a righteousness and equality which extend to all that turn to Him, whether here or elsewhere. For it is not here alone that the active power of God is beforehand, but it is everywhere and is always at work. Accordingly, in the Preaching of Peter, the Lord says to the disciples after the resurrection, “I have chosen you twelve disciples, judging you worthy of me,” whom the Lord wished to be apostles, having judged them faithful, sending them into the world to the men on the earth, that they may know that there is one God, showing clearly what would take place by the faith of Christ; that they who heard and believed should be saved; and that those who believed not, after having heard, should bear witness, not having the excuse to allege, We have not heard.
What then? Did not the same dispensation obtain in Hades, so that even there, all the souls, on hearing the proclamation, might either exhibit repentance, or confess that their punishment was just, because they believed not? And it were the exercise of no ordinary arbitrariness, for those who had departed before the advent of the Lord (not having the Gospel preached to them, and having afforded no ground from themselves, in consequence of believing or not) to obtain either salvation or punishment. For it is not right that these should be condemned without trial, and that those alone who lived after the advent should have the advantage of the divine righteousness. But to all rational souls it was said from above, “Whatever one of you has done in ignorance, without clearly knowing God, if, on becoming conscious, he repent, all his sins will be forgiven him.” “For, behold,” it is said, “I have set before your face death and life, that ye may choose life.” “God says that He set, not that He made both, in order to the comparison of choice. And in another Scripture He says, “If ye hear Me, and be willing, ye shall eat the good of the land. But if ye hear Me not, and are not willing, the sword shall devour you: for the mouth of the Lord hath spoken these things. …” – St. Clement of Alexandria (c.150 AD – c. 215 AD, Stromata, Book 6, Chapter VI)
Translation Source:
http://www.earlychristianwritings.com/text/clement-stromata-book6.html
Can you see it?
No Time-Space Limit nor other Limits of Christ Saving from Hades or from elsewhere
“it is evident that those, too, who were outside of the Law, having lived rightly, in consequence of the peculiar’ nature of the voice, though they are in Hades and in ward, on hearing the voice of the Lord, whether that of His own person or that acting through His apostles, with all speed turned and believed. For we remember that the Lord is “the power of God,” and power can never be weak. So I think it is demonstrated that the God being good, and the Lord powerful, they save with a righteousness and equality which extend to all that turn to Him, whether here or elsewhere. For it is not here alone that the active power of God is beforehand, but it is everywhere and is always at work.” – St. Clement of Alexandria (c.150 AD – c. 215 AD, Stromata, Book 6, Chapter VI)
Translation Source:
http://www.earlychristianwritings.com/text/clement-stromata-book6.html
To Quote from the above ‘carefully’ in the ‘Context of Salvation from Hades at ANY TIME with NO LIMIT’
Phrases: ” though they are in Hades and in ward” —> “all that turn to Him, whether here or elsewhere” —> “on hearing the voice of the Lord, whether that of His own person or that acting through His apostles,” —> “with all speed turned and believed ” —–> and “the active power of God is beforehand, but it is everywhere and is always at work”.
No Time Limit for Salvation from Hades
Focus Phrase from the above: “always at work”
No Physical nor any other limit for Christ Saving from Hades
Focus Phrase from the above: “everywhere and is always at work”.
Is he right in understanding 1 Peter 4:6 like that? I don’t know but it’s “Possible”.
Note for Protestants: St. Clement of Alexandria does “not” have any prayers to Virgin Mary or the saints in his Writings and so Protestants can consider him.
Peace to you
Zion on Earth Prophecy – City of God and the First Resurrection Mystery of the Sons of God
Example (Verse in image): Isaiah 4:1 Prophecy – When?
Verses:
“… 1And IN THAT DAY SEVEN WOMEN shall take HOLD OF ONE MAN, saying,
“We will eat our own food and wear our own apparel;
Only let us be called by your name,
To take away our reproach.”
2In THAT DAY the Branch of the Lord shall be beautiful and glorious;
And the fruit of the earth shall be excellent and appealing
FOR THOSE OF ISRAEL WHO HAVE ESCAPED. 3And it shall come to pass that HE WHO IS LEFT IN ZION and REMAINS IN JERUSALEM will be called holy—EVERYONE WHO IS RECORDED AMONG THE LIVING IN JERUSALEM. 4When the Lord has washed away the filth of the daughters of Zion, and purged the [a]blood of Jerusalem from her midst, by the SPIRIT OF JUDGMENT and by the SPIRIT OF BURNING, 5then the Lord will create above every dwelling place of Mount Zion, and above her assemblies, a cloud and smoke by day and the shining of a FLAMING FIRE BY NIGHT. For over all the glory there will be a [b]covering. …” (Isaiah 4:1 – 2, NKJV)
Please take note these phrases from above:
1) “… in that Day …” = Refers to the Millennial Reign of Christ Timeline
2) “… FOR THOSE OF ISRAEL WHO HAVE ESCAPED. 3And it shall come to pass that HE WHO IS LEFT IN ZION and REMAINS IN JERUSALEM will be called holy—EVERYONE WHO IS RECORDED AMONG THE LIVING IN JERUSALEM. …” = Mortal survivors who have escaped the Antichrist and Christ’s Second Coming Judgment at there (Revelation 19).
3) “… 4When the Lord has washed away the filth of the daughters of Zion, and purged the [a]blood of Jerusalem from her midst, by the SPIRIT OF JUDGMENT and by the SPIRIT OF BURNING, …” = The filthy among the Jews will be Judged and even burnt too and only the holy ones remain as mortals.
4) “… 5then the Lord will create above every dwelling place of Mount Zion, and above her assemblies, a cloud and smoke by day and the shining of a FLAMING FIRE BY NIGHT. For over all the glory there will be a [b]covering. …” = As opposed to the counterfeit city built with the help of the Antichrist prior which is now destroyed at the Second Coming of Christ (Revelation 19), please notice that it’s Written that “God Himself” Re-Builds this Holy City (Jerusalem) literally on Earth and not like the counterfeit one earlier which is by men with the help of the Antichrist. When God Builds it, there will be a literal “Fire in the Night” and “Cloud and Smoke by day” during the Millennial Reign Timeline.
Further Explanation: This is a Prophecy to be Fulfilled by the Mortal Jews during the 1000 years Millennial Reign of Christ. The Elect or Christians are already Raised as Immortals during that time participating in the First Resurrection and do “not” marry anymore. These Verses in Timeline Order:
i) Christ Returns as the True Messiah Destroying the Antichrist and his violent team
“… 11Now I saw heaven opened, and behold, a white horse. And He who sat on him was called Faithful and True, and in righteousness He judges and makes war. 12His eyes were like a flame of fire, and on His head were many crowns. He [e]had a name written that no one knew except Himself. 13He was clothed with a robe dipped in blood, and His name is called The Word of God. 14And the armies in heaven, clothed in [f]fine linen, white and clean, followed Him on white horses. 15Now out of His mouth goes a [g]sharp sword, that with it He should strike the nations. And He Himself will rule them with a rod of iron. He Himself treads the winepress of the fierceness and wrath of Almighty God. 16And He has on His robe and on His thigh a name written: KING OF KINGS AND LORD OF LORDS. … 19And I saw the beast, the kings of the earth, and their armies, gathered together to make war against Him who sat on the horse and against His army. 20Then the beast was captured, and with him the false prophet who worked signs in his presence, by which he deceived those who received the mark of the beast and those who worshiped his image. These two were cast alive into the lake of fire burning with brimstone. 21And the rest were killed with the sword which proceeded from the mouth of Him who sat on the horse. And all the birds were filled with their flesh. …” (Revelation 19:11 – 16, 19 – 21, NKJV)
ii) Satan will be bound during this 1000 years Millennial Reign Time in the Bottomless Pit only deceiving at the end of it toward some sinful mortals after which is Judgment Day
“… 1Then I saw an angel coming down from heaven, having the key to the bottomless pit and a great chain in his hand. 2He laid hold of the dragon, that serpent of old, who is the Devil and Satan, and bound him for a thousand years; 3and he cast him into the bottomless pit, and shut him up, and set a seal on him, so that he should deceive the nations no more till the thousand years were finished. But after these things he must be released for a little while. …” (Revelation 20:1 – 3, NKJV)
iii) There will be “sinners” on earth (indicating mortals) whose life expectancy rises above to 100 years old due to lesser sin (because Satan is bound almost these 1000 years) where they have offspring or children and even the predator animals such as lions and wolf will not be Carnivores
“… For behold, I CREATE JERUSALEM AS A REJOICING,
And her people a joy.
19I will rejoice in Jerusalem,
And joy in My people;
The voice of weeping shall no longer be heard in her,
Nor the voice of crying.
20“No more shall an infant from there live but a few days,
Nor an old man who has not fulfilled his days;
For the CHILD SHALL DIE ONE HUNDRED YEARS OLD,
But the SINNER BEING ONE HUNDRED YEARS OLD SHALL BE ACCURSED.
21They shall build houses and inhabit them;
They shall plant vineyards and eat their fruit.
22They shall not build and another inhabit;
They shall not plant and another eat;
For as the days of a tree, so shall be the days of My people,
And My elect shall long enjoy the work of their hands.
23They shall not labor in vain,
Nor bring forth children for trouble;
For they shall be the descendants of the blessed of the Lord,
And THEIR OFFSPRING WITH THEM.
24“It shall come to pass
That before they call, I will answer;
And while they are still speaking, I will hear.
25The WOLF AND THE LAMB SHALL FEED TOGETHER,
The LION SHALL EAT STRAW LIKE THE OX,
And dust shall be the serpent’s food.
THEY SHALL NOT HURT NOR DESTROY in ALL MY HOLY MOUNTAIN,”
Says the Lord. …” (Isaiah 65:18 – 25, NKJV)
This is the Peaceful, non-violence, zero bloodshed “Zion” which God Will Build after Christ (“The GLORIOUS BRANCH” Returns). The counterfeit Zion before that is built with bloodshed and violence with the help of the Antichrist as discussed in earlier posts just as First Christianity and other Bible Verses clearly Teach, example link below:
https://www.facebook.com/651792783/posts/10160823798057784/
iv) Christians or the Elect are Raised as “Immortals” participating in the “First Resurrection” with the “Rapture” too for ‘living Christians’ Reigning as “King and Priests” with Christ
“… 4And I saw thrones, and they sat on them, and judgment was committed to them. Then I saw the souls of those who had been beheaded for their witness to Jesus and for the word of God, who had not worshiped the beast or his image, and had not received his mark on their foreheads or on their hands. And they lived and reigned with Christ for [a]a thousand years. 5But the rest of the dead did not live again until the thousand years were finished. This is the first resurrection. 6Blessed and holy is he who has part in the first resurrection. Over such the second death has no power, but they shall be priests of God and of Christ, and shall reign with Him a thousand years. …” (Revelation 20:4 – 6, NKJV)
“… 16For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and THE DEAD IN CHRIST RISE FIRST: 17THEN WE WHICH ARE ALIVE and REMAIN shall be CAUGHT UP TOGETHER WITH THEM in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord. …”(1 Thessalonians 4:16 – 17, NKJV)
“… And have made us KINGS and PRIESTS to our God; And we shall reign on the earth. …” (Revelation 5:10, NKJV)
Note: This Reigning on Earth is during the Millennial Reign and “not” now.
v) Christians (and the Elect) who Participate in the “First Resurrection” live as Immortals during this 1000 years Millennial Reign of Christ together with the mortals who are alive at that time but they DO NOT MARRY NOR SIN anymore being made PERFECT as Kings and Priests of Heaven
“… 29JESUS answered and said to them, “You are [f]mistaken, not knowing the Scriptures nor the power of God. 30For IN THE RESURRECTION THEY NEITHER MARRY NOR ARE GIVEN IN MARRIAGE, but ARE LIKE ANGELS [G]OF GOD in HEAVEN. …” (Matthew 22:29 – 30, NKJV)
“… and has made us KINGS AND PRIESTS to His God and Father, to Him be glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen. …” (Revelation 1:6, NKJV)
“… But you are a chosen generation, A ROYAL PRIESTHOOD, a holy nation, His own special people, that you may proclaim the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light; …” (1 Peter 2:9, NKJV)
Yes, Christ is Speaking of this Mystery of the “First Resurrection” which pertains to the “Age/Aeon/Olam to come” (‘Olam Ha-ba’) pointing to His 1000 Years Millennial Reign Timeline, Verses:
“… 34JESUS ANSWERED and said to them, “The sons of this age marry and are given in marriage. 35But THOSE WHO ARE COUNTED WORTHY TO ATTAIN THAT AGE, AND THE RESURRECTION FROM THE DEAD, NEITHER MARRY NOR ARE GIVEN IN MARRIAGE; 36NOR CAN THEY DIE ANYMORE, for THEY ARE EQUAL TO THE ANGELS and are SONS OF GOD, being sons of the resurrection. …” (Luke 20:34 – 36, NKJV)
Will we be counted worthy to be among these Chosen “Sons of God” to Participate in the First Resurrection?
“… For the earnest expectation of the CREATION EAGERLY WAITS for the REVEALING OF THE SONS OF GOD. …” (Romans 8:19, NKJV)
Please notice carefully in Verses below the phrase “reward will be great” and “you will be Sons of God” referring to only those who lived a life “Loving their enemies” like this (and not those who kill their evil enemies in the name of justice or politics or law):
“… 27“But I say to you who hear: LOVE YOUR ENEMIES, DO GOOD to those who hate you, 28bless those who curse you, and pray for those PRAY FOR THOSE WHO SPITEFULLY USE YOU. 29To him who strikes you on the one cheek, offer the other also. And from him who takes away your cloak, do not withhold your tunic either. 30GIVE to everyone who asks of you. And from him who takes away your goods DO NOT ASK THEM BACK. 31And just as you want men to do to you, you also do to them likewise. 32“But if you love those who love you, what credit is that to you? For even sinners love those who love them. 33And if you do good to those who do good to you, what credit is that to you? For even sinners do the same. 34And if YOU LEND to those from whom you HOPE TO RECEIVE BACK, what credit is that to you? For even sinners lend to sinners to receive as much back. 35But LOVE YOUR ENEMIES, DO GOOD, AND LEND, [h]HOPING FOR NOTHING IN RETURN; and YOUR REWARD WILL BE GREAT, and YOU WILL BE SONS OF THE MOST HIGH. For He is kind to the unthankful and evil. 36Therefore be merciful, just as your Father also is merciful. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 6:27 – 36, NKJV)
I repeat, please notice the phrase “… REWARD WILL BE GREAT, and YOU WILL BE SONS OF THE MOST HIGH. …” Which is only towards those who Practice this Level of Love by His Grace for the Reason being the Will of the Father since Christ Continues Saying that only such ones are “Doing His Will” to Emulate God the Father in being “… For He is kind to the unthankful and evil. 36Therefore be merciful, just as your Father also is merciful. …” .
Please remember that the ‘Great Denial Verses’ below toward “Many” who did miracles/cast out Demons/Prophesied etc. are called as “Lawless” and “not” doing the “Will of the Father” (which is to “Love your Enemies” as described above) in order to attain to the “Great Reward” of becoming “His Sons of the Most High” as Christ Himself Teaches this Greatest Secret in His Own Words above + plus nothing else needed and that’s why we stress on this Greatest Commands Directly by Christ (that is, His Famous “… But I Say to you …” Type in such Verses) to ‘those who will listen to Him’:
“… 21“Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who DOES THE WILL OF MY FATHER IN HEAVEN. 22MANY will say to Me in that day, ‘Lord, Lord, have we NOT PROPHESIED in Your name, CAST OUT DEMONS in Your name, and DONE MANY WONDERS in Your name?’ 23And then I will declare to them, ‘I NEVER KNEW YOU; depart from Me, you who practice LAWLESSNESS!’ 24“Therefore WHOEVER HEARS THESE SAYINGS OF MINE, and DOES THEM, I will liken him to a WISE MAN who BUILT HIS HOUSE ON THE ROCK: …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 7:13 – 24, NKJV)
“… And because LAWLESSNESS WILL ABOUND, the LOVE OF MANY will GROW COLD. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 24:12, NKJV)
Love is the Hardest thing to do especially toward enemies and those who hate us and that’s why those who do it by His Grace are the “Few worthy” ones who Fulfill the Will of the Father toward “Perfection of Love” to “Love their evil & unthankful enemies” and become “Sons of the Most High” Emulating the “Perfect Father” in this as Matthew 5:38 – 48 clearly reveals as it is Written:
“… 13“Enter by the narrow gate; for wide is the gate and broad is the way that leads to destruction, and there are many who go in by it. 14[c]Because narrow is the gate and [d]DIFFICULT is the way which LEADS TO LIFE, and there are FEW WHO FIND IT. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus (Matthew 7:13 – 14, NKJV)
Please allow me to repeat these Verses (Matthew 5:38 – 48):
“…38“YOU HAVE HEARD THAT IT WAS SAID, ‘An EYE FOR AN EYE and a tooth for a tooth.’ 39But I TELL YOU NOT TO RESIST AN EVIL PERSON. But whoever slaps you on your right cheek, turn the other to him also. 40If anyone wants to sue you and TAKE AWAY YOUR TUNIC, LET HIM HAVE YOUR CLOAK ALSO. 41And whoever compels you to go one mile, go with him two. 42GIVE to him who asks you, and from him WHO WANTS TO BORROW from you DO NOT TURN AWAY. 43“You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall love your neighbor and HATE YOUR ENEMY.’ 44[o]But I SAY TO YOU, LOVE YOUR ENEMIES, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you, 45that YOU MAY BE SONS OF YOUR FATHER IN HEAVEN; for He makes His sun rise on the evil and on the good, and sends rain on the just and on the unjust. 46For if YOU LOVE THOSE WHO LOVE YOU, WHAT REWARD HAVE YOU? Do not even the tax collectors do the same? 47And if you greet your [p]brethren only, WHAT DO YOU DO MORE THAN OTHERS? Do not even the [q]tax collectors do so? 48Therefore YOU SHALL BE PERFECT, JUST AS YOUR FATHER IN HEAVEN IS PERFECT. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 5:38 – 48, NKJV)
To become the “SONS OF YOUR FATHER IN HEAVEN; ” (Matthew 5:45) to Inherit His Kingdom as Kings and Priests it is clear that God’s Will is “Perfection” in “Loving your enemies” in Emulating the Father (Matthew 5:48) where in Verse 47 He Remarks beautifully why many may be rejected due to this one reason if they ignore these Perfection of Love Commands, namely, “… 46For IF YOU LOVE THOSE WHO LOVE YOU, WHAT REWARD HAVE YOU? … 47And if you greet your [p]brethren only, WHAT DO YOU DO MORE THAN OTHERS? …” (Matthew 5:46 – 57).
vi) One last Deception by Satan at the end of the 1000 years Millennial Reign of Christ
“… 7Now WHEN THE THOUSAND YEARS HAVE EXPIRED, SATAN WILL BE RELEASED FROM HIS PRISON 8and will go out to deceive the nations which are in the four corners of the earth, Gog and Magog, to gather them together to battle, whose number is as the sand of the sea. 9They went up on the breadth of the earth and surrounded the camp of the saints and the beloved city. And fire came down from God out of heaven and devoured them. 10THE DEVIL, WHO DECEIVED THEM, WAS CAST INTO THE LAKE OF FIRE AND BRIMSTONE where[b] THE BEAST AND THE FALSE PROPHET ARE. And they will be tormented day and night forever and ever. …” (Revelation 20:7 – 10, NKJV)
Please compare with Verse below (quoted earlier) where the “Beast (Antichrist) and the False Prophet” are thrown into the “Lake of Fire” before this 1000 years while “Satan” is cast into the “Lake of Fire” only after this 1000 years:
“… 20Then the BEAST WAS CAPTURED, AND WITH HIM the FALSE PROPHET who worked signs in his presence, by which he deceived those who received the mark of the beast and those who worshiped his image. These two were CAST ALIVE INTO THE LAKE OF FIRE BURNING WITH BRIMSTONE. …” (Revelation 19:20, NKJV)
vii) There will be one last Deception at the end of this 1000 years by Satan deceiving some sinful mortals but after which Judgment Day Happens with the Second Resurrection for the “rest of the (non-Christian, non-Elect) dead”)
“… 7Now when the thousand years have expired, … 11Then I saw a great white throne and Him who sat on it, from whose face the earth and the heaven fled away. And there was found no place for them. 12And I saw the dead, small and great, standing before [c]God, and books were opened. And another book was opened, which is the Book of Life. And THE DEAD WERE JUDGED ACCORDING TO THEIR WORKS, by the things which were written in the books. 13The sea gave up the dead who were in it, and Death and Hades delivered up the dead who were in them. And they were judged, each one according to his works. 14Then Death and Hades were cast into the lake of fire. This is the second [d]death. 15And ANYONE NOT FOUND WRITTEN in the BOOK OF LIFE was CAST INTO THE LAKE OF FIRE. …” (Revelation 20:7, 11 – 15, NKJV)
Here’s a First Christianity Quote Teaching likewise:
During the 1000 years Millennial Reign of Christ these Jewish Prophecies will be Fulfilled toward the Jewish Mortals of that era e.g. (Isaiah 65:20, Revelation 20:7 – 10).
St. Irenaeous’ explanation below Quoting St. Papias’ and the Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ Himself is more ancient and accurate revealing that these “Jewish Prophecies” will be Fulfilled by the Jewish Mortals during Christ’s 1000 years Millennial Reign Timeline (Revelation 20:4 – 6) and NOT now as erred by many mainstream denominations of Christianity which exists today (please read the quote below carefully):
“… . And let the nations serve thee, and kings bow down to thee; and be thou lord over thy brother, and thy father’s sons shall bow down to thee: cursed shall be he who shall curse thee, and blessed shall be he who shall bless thee.” If any one, then, does not accept these things as referring to the appointed kingdom, he must fall into much contradiction and contrariety, as is the case with the Jews, who are involved in absolute perplexity. For not only did not the nations in this life serve this Jacob; but even after he had received the blessing, he himself going forth [from his home], served his uncle Laban the Syrian for twenty years; and not only was he not made lord of his brother, but he did himself bow down before his brother Esau, upon his return from Mesopotamia to his father, and offered many gifts to him. Moreover, in what way did he inherit much corn and wine here, he who emigrated to Egypt because of the famine which possessed the land in which he was dwelling, and became Subject to Pharaoh, who was then ruling over Egypt? The predicted blessing, therefore, belongs unquestionably to the times of the kingdom, when the righteous shall bear rule upon their rising from the dead; when also the creation, having been renovated and set free, shall fructify with an abundance of all kinds of food, from the dew of heaven, and from the fertility of the earth: as the elders who saw John, the disciple of the Lord, related that they had heard from him how the Lord used to teach in regard to these times, and say: The days will come, in which vines shall grow, each having ten thousand branches, and in each branch ten thousand twigs, and in each true twig ten thousand shoots, and in each one of the shoots ten thousand dusters, and on every one of the clusters ten thousand grapes, and every grape when pressed will give five and twenty metretes of wine. And when any one of the saints shall lay hold of a cluster, another shall cry out, “I am a better cluster, take me; bless the Lord through me.” In like manner [the Lord declared] that a grain of wheat would produce ten thousand ears, and that every ear should have ten thousand grains, and every grain would yield ten pounds (quinque bilibres) of clear, pure, fine flour; and that all other fruit-bearing trees, and seeds and grass, would produce in similar proportions (secundum congruentiam iis consequentem); and that all animals feeding [only] on the productions of the earth, should [in those days] become peaceful and harmonious among each other, and be in perfect subjection to man.
4. And these things are bone witness to in writing by Papias, the hearer of John, and a companion of Polycarp, in his fourth book; for there were five books compiled (suntetagme/na) by him. And he says in addition, “Now these things are credible to believers.” And he says that, “when the traitor Judas did not give credit to them, and put the question, `How then can things about to bring forth so abundantly be wrought by the Lord? ‘the Lord declared, `They who shall come to these [times] shall see.'” When prophesying of these times, therefore, Esaias says: “The wolf also shall feed with the lamb, and the leopard shall take his rest with the kid; the calf also, and the bull, and the lion shall eat together; and a little boy shall lead them. The ox and the bear shall feed together, and their young ones shall agree together; and the lion shall eat straw as well as the ox. And the infant boy shall thrust his hand into the asp’s den, into the nest also of the adder’s brood; and they shall do no harm, nor have power to hurt anything in my holy mountain.” And again he says, in recapitulation, “Wolves and lambs shall then browse together, and the lion shall eat straw like the ox, and the serpent earth as if it were bread; and they shall neither hurt nor annoy anything in my holy mountain, saith the Lord.” I am quite aware that some persons endeavour to refer these words to the case of savage men, both of different nations and various habits, who come to believe, and when they have believed, act in harmony with the righteous. But although this is [true] now with regard to some men coming from various nations to the harmony of the faith, nevertheless in the resurrection of the just [the words shall also apply] to those animals mentioned. For God is non in all things. …” – Blessed St. Irenaeous, Bishop of Lyons, a Hearer of Blessed St. Polycarp the Disciple of Blessed St. John who wrote the Book of Revelation (c. 130 AD – c. 202 AD, Chapter XXXIII, ‘Against Heresies’, Book 5)
Source:
http://www.earlychristianwritings.com/text/irenaeus-book5.html
Blessed St. Justin Martyr affirms that this is not his opinion but is held by “right-minded Christians on all points” regarding the Millennialism Doctrine, to quote:
“… But I and others, who are right-minded Christians on all points, are assured that there will be a resurrection of the dead, and a thousand years in Jerusalem, which will then be built, adorned, and enlarged, the prophets Ezekiel and Isaiah and others declare. For Isaiah spake thus concerning this space of a thousand years: ‘For there shall be the new heaven and the new earth, and the former shall not be remembered, or come into their heart; but they shall find joy and gladness in it, which things I create’…For as Adam was told that in the day he ate of the tree he would die, we know that he did not complete a thousand years. We have perceived, moreover, that the expression, ‘The day of the Lord is as a thousand years,’ is connected with this subject [2 Peter 3:8, Psalm 90:4]. And further, there was a certain man with us, whose name was John, one of the apostles of Christ, who prophesied, by a revelation that was made to him, THAT THOSE WHO BELIEVED IN OUR CHRIST would dwell a THOUSAND YEARS in Jerusalem [Revelation 20:4 – 10]; and that thereafter the general, and, in short, the eternal resurrection and judgment of all men would likewise take place [Revelation 20:11 – 15]. Just as our Lord also said, ‘They shall neither marry nor be given in marriage, but shall be equal to the angels, the children of the God of the resurrection. [Luke 20:35 – 36] …” – Blessed St. Justin Martyr, a Great Early Christian Apologist who is a Foremost Exponent of the Divine Word, who Influenced Virtually all of subsequent Christian philosophy and Catholic theology, Martyr for Christ (c. 100AD – c. 160 AD, Dialogue with Trypho the Jew, CHAPTER LXXXI)
Source:
http://www.earlychristianwritings.com/text/justinmartyr-dialoguetrypho.html
P/S: Who believed the same as St. Justin Martyr & St. Irenaeous of Lyons in First Christianity?
“… Millennialism was taught by various earlier writers such as Justin Martyr, Irenaeus, Tertullian, Commodian, Lactantius, Methodius, and Apollinaris of Laodicea in a form now called premillennialism.[9] According to religious scholar Rev. Dr. Francis Nigel Lee,[10] “Justin’s ‘Occasional Chiliasm’ sui generis which was strongly anti-pretribulationistic was followed possibly by Pothinus in A.D. 175 and more probably (around 185) by Irenaeus”. … Melito of Sardis is frequently listed as a second century proponent of premillennialism.[12] The support usually given for the supposition is that “Jerome [Comm. on Ezek. 36] and Gennadius [De Dogm. Eccl., Ch. 52] both affirm that he was a decided millenarian.”[13] In the early third century, Hippolytus of Rome … Around 220, there were some similar influences on Tertullian, although only with very important and extremely optimistic (if not perhaps even postmillennial) modifications and implications. On the other hand, “Christian Chiliastic” ideas were indeed advocated in 240 by Commodian; in 250 by the Egyptian Bishop Nepos in his Refutation of Allegorists; in 260 by the almost unknown Coracion; and in 310 by Lactantius. Into the late fourth century, Bishop Ambrose of Milan had millennial leanings (Ambrose of Milan. Book II. On the Belief in the Resurrection, verse 108). Lactantius is the last great literary defender of chiliasm in the early Christian church. …”
Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Millennialism
Peace to you
Safe Route Scripturally – Post Tribulation Rapture Doctrine
Source Post:
https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=10160859868082784&id=651792783
Example Quote (from book review in Image too):
“… MARTIN LUTHER, JOHN CALVIN, CHARLES SPURGEON, GEORGE WHITEFIELD, WILLIAM TYNDALE, JOHN WESLEY. What did these great preachers and theologians of the past have in common? They all believed, spoke and wrote about A POST-TRIBULATION RAPTURE. The doctrine of a PRETRIBULATIONAL RAPTURE WAS UNKNOWN TO THEM. …”
Source:
Comment: I think the Book Author is too extreme to label the ‘Pre-Tribulation Rapture’ as a ‘deception’ where I prefer a more casual description such ‘misunderstanding’ as more appropriate.
Personal Standpoint:
0) If a Christian gets it wrong regarding future prophecies, he still can be saved. It all depends on how he uses the Name of the “Most Blessed Holy Spirit of God” when doing so. If he claims that the “Holy Spirit Revealed to him”, he better be right 100% or can risk the unforgivable ‘Blasphemy of the Holy Spirit sin’ (as per Matthew 12:31 – 32). Remember the ” … We Prophesied in Your Name …” to whom He Says ‘… I never knew you…’ could fit such persons who simply use the Name of the Holy Spirit but then were wrong counting it as “Lawlessness” (as per Matthew 7:21 – 24).
However if he states it as a personal opinion only, then it’s not a big deal if he errs as he didn’t take God’s Most Holy Name in Vain whilst doing so.
1) First Christianity only believed in Post Tribulation Rapture. Example Posts:
https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=10159460167692784&id=651792783
Or
https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=10159455296362784&id=651792783
Or
https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=10159508215297784&id=651792783
2) All Major Men of God in the Protestant Reformation also likewise only believed in Post-Tribulation Rapture and “no” one in the Protestant Camp would call these ones unsaved, a false prophet or deceivers even if they err. So this is a safe route to believe in Post Tribulation Rapture.
3) My personal research into the writings of these Best Protestants of Faith proves them to believe in “Post-Tribulation Rapture” as per example quotes below:
Kings of Protestant Theology and Post Tribulation Rapture Example Quotes – Martin Luther, John Calvin, John Wesley and Charles Spurgeon
1) Martin Luther
Martin Luther teaches only ‘one gathering of the elect at the same time which occurs during the First Resurrection of the Dead’
“… Paul writes these words to comfort Christians who were troubled about what would take place at the RESURRECTION OF THE DEAD. Shall all rise together? Shall those LIVING ON THE EARTH at the last day meet Christ before others? These and like thoughts worried them. Here Paul answers them by saying that Christ would take ALL HIS BELIEVERS TO HIMSELF at THE SAME TIME, …” – Blessed Martin Luther, Reformation Founder, First Champion of the Protestant Faith (Commentary on 1 Thessalonians 4)
Source:
https://biblehub.com/sermons/auth/luther/living_and_dead_when_christ_returns.htm
2) John Calvin
John Calvin also believed in the Rapture and the First Resurrection happening at the same time as one event of the Return of Christ only where the Rapture is kind of the death those living undergo when Christ Returns Post-Tribulation. John Calvin clearly implies that the “First Resurrection and Rapture” are the Same event where the First Resurrection occurs first followed by the Rapture. Yes, John Calvin affirms that Rapture is a sudden change replacing death.
“… We who live. This has been said by him with this view — that they might not think that those only would be partakers of the RESURRECTION WHO WOULD BE ALIVE AT THE TIME OF CHRIST’S COMING, and that those would have no part in it who had been previously taken away by death. “The ORDER OF THE RESURRECTION,” says he, “WILL BEGIN WITH THEM: (581) we shall accordingly not rise without them.” From this it appears that the belief of a final resurrection had been, in the minds of some, slight and obscure, and involved in various errors, inasmuch as they imagined that the dead would be deprived of it; for they imagined that eternal life belonged to those alone whom Christ, at his last coming, would find still alive upon the earth. Paul, with the view of remedying these errors, assigns the FIRST PLACE TO THE DEAD, and AFTERWARDS TEACHES THAT THOSE WILL FOLLOW WHO WILL BE AT THAT TIME REMAINING IN THIS LIFE. As to the circumstance, however, that by speaking in the first person he makes himself, as it were, one of the number of those who will live until the last day, he means by this to arouse the Thessalonians to wait for it, nay more, to hold all believers in suspense, that they may not promise themselves some particular time: for, granting that it was by a special revelation that he knew that CHRIST WOULD COME at a SOMEWHAT LATER TIME, (582) it was nevertheless necessary that this doctrine should be delivered to the Church in common, that believers might be prepared at all times … The dead who are in Christ. He again says that the DEAD WHO ARE IN CHRIST, that is, who are included in Christ’s body, will RISE FIRST, that we may know that the hope of life is laid up in heaven for them no less than for the living. … He says that THOSE THAT SURVIVE will be CARRIED UP TOGETHER WITH THEM. As to these, he makes no mention of death: hence it appears as if he meant to say that they would be EXEMPTED FROM DEATH. Here Augustine gives himself much distress, both in the twentieth book on the City of God and in his Answer to Dulcitius, because Paul seems to contradict himself, inasmuch as he says elsewhere, that seed cannot spring up again unless it die. (1 Corinthians 15:36) The solution, however, is easy, inasmuch as a SUDDEN CHANGE WILL BE LIKE DEATH. Ordinary death, it is true, is the separation of the soul from the body; but this does not hinder that the Lord may in a moment destroy this corruptible nature, so as to create it anew by his power, for thus is accomplished what Paul himself teaches must take place — that mortality shall be swallowed up of life. (2 Corinthians 5:4) …” – Blessed John Calvin, The Founder of the Five-Point Calvinism and No.1 most Influential Protestant Theologian of all time (Commentary on 1 Thessalonians 4:15 – 16)
Source:
https://www.studylight.org/commentaries/eng/cal/1-thessalonians-4.html
John Calvin assures that the Post Tribulation Rapture is true as it occurs only after the “scattering” of the church due to tribulation and during Christ’s only One Second Coming at the last/seventh Trumpet, to quote:
“… 52. In a moment This is still of a general nature; that is, it includes all. For in all the change will be sudden and instantaneous, because Christ’s advent will be sudden. And to convey the idea of a moment, he afterwards makes use of the phrase TWINKLING (OR JERK) OF THE EYE, for in the Greek manuscripts there is a twofold, reading — rhopho (jerk,) or rhipho (twinkling.) [131] It matters nothing, however, as to the sense. Paul has selected a movement of the body, that surpasses all others in quickness; for nothing is more rapid than a movement of the eye, though at the same time he has made an allusion to sleep, with which twinkling of the eye is contrasted. [132] .WITH THE LAST TRUMP. Though the repetition of the term might seem to place it beyond a doubt, that the word trumpet is here taken in its proper acceptation, yet I prefer to understand the expression as metaphorical. In 1 Thessalonians 4:16, he connects together the voice of the archangel and the trump of God: As therefore a commander, with the sound of a trumpet, summons his army to battle, so Christ, by his far sounding proclamation, which will be heard throughout the whole world, will summon all the dead … This distinction, therefore, is simply an exposition of the foregoing statement — that ALL WILL NOT DIE, BUT ALL WILL BE CHANGED “Those who have already died,” says he, “will rise again incorruptible.” See what a change there will be upon the dead! “Those,” says he, “WHO WILL BE STILL ALIVE WILL THEMSELVES ALSO BE CHANGED.” You see then as to both. [134] You now then perceive how it is, that change will be common to all, but not sleep. [135]. When he says, WE SHALL BE CHANGED, he includes himself in the number of those, WHO ARE TO LIVE TILL THE ADVENT OF CHRIST. As it was now the last times, (1 John 2:18,) that day (2 Timothy 1:18) was to be looked for by the saints every hour. At the same time, in writing to the Thessalonians, he utters that memorable PREDICTION RESPECTING THE SCATTERING [136] that WOULD TAKE PLACE IN THE CHURCH BEFORE CHRIST’S COMING. (2 Thessalonians 2:3.) …” – Blessed John Calvin, The Founder of the Five-Point Calvinism and No.1 most Influential Protestant Theologian of all time (Commentary on 1 Corinthians 15:52, Point 52)
Source:
https://biblehub.com/commentaries/calvin/1_corinthians/15.htm
3) John Wesley
John Wesley assures that the Post-Tribulation Rapture is the replacement of death for those who are alive at Christ’s Return to join in the First Resurrection:
“… But we shall all — Who do not die, be changed – So that this animal body shall become spiritual. … In a moment — Amazing work of omnipotence! And cannot the same power now change us into saints in a moment? The trumpet shall sound – To awaken all that sleep in the dust of the earth. …” – Blessed John Wesley, Founder of Methodism (Commentary on 1 Corinthians 15:51 – 52)
Source:
https://www.christianity.com/bible/commentary.php?com=wes&b=46&c=15
And
“… By the word of the Lord — By a particular revelation. We who are left — This intimates the fewness of those who will be then alive, compared to the multitude of the dead. Believers of all ages and nations make up, as it were, one body; in consideration of which, the believers of that age might put themselves in the place, and speak in the person, of them who were to live till the coming of the Lord. Not that St. Paul hereby asserted (though some seem to have imagined so) that the day of the Lord was at hand. …” – Blessed John Wesley, Founder of Methodism (Commentary on 1 Thessalonians 4:15)
Source:
https://www.christianity.com/bible/commentary.php?com=wes&b=52&c=4
4) Charles Spurgeon
Spurgeon sees the Rapture likewise as occuring during the Resurrection of the dead meant for Christians where the dead in Christ Rise First during Christ’s Second Coming. Yes there’s no Christian who is left behind who can be saved after that to join the number of Elect as Spurgeon implies below, to quote:
“… You have a glorious hope concerning those who have FALLEN ASLEEP IN CHRIST, you believe that they are still live, and that, by-and-by, their bodies WILL RISE AGAIN. … We shall have no preference over the saints who are sleeping in Jesus, WE SHALL NOT GO BEFORE THEM, we shall be on a blessed equality with them. … Whatever ideas we have concerning the DETAILS OF CHRIST’S COMING, this summing up of the whole matter is unutterably precious to us: “so shall we ever be with the Lord.” There is no separating Christ and his people. If you are one with him, he will NOT BE IN HEAVEN AND LEAVE YOU BEHIND; nor will he be glorified in the presence of his Father without making you to be partakers of the glory. What joy there is for us in this blessed truth! …” – Blessed Charles Spurgeon, the Prince of Preachers in the Protestant Camp (Commentary on 1 Thessalonians 4)
Source:
https://www.studylight.org/commentaries/eng/spe/1-thessalonians-4.html
And
“… We shall not all die, some will be alive when Christ comes to this earth again; “but we shall all be changed,” if not by the process of death and resurrection, yet by some other means. … Somehow or other, such a change as this must take place before we can enter heaven, for “flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God.” …” – Blessed Charles Spurgeon, the Prince of Preachers in the Protestant Camp (Commentary on 1 Corinthians 15:51 – 52)
Source:
https://www.studylight.org/commentaries/eng/spe/1-corinthians-15.html
Original Source:
https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=10160401075092784&id=651792783
Peace to you
Believing in Vain Mystery
Source Post:
https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=10160864815432784&id=651792783
1) The “Work of God” is to “Believe in Christ”
“… 28Then they said to Him, “What shall we do, that we may work the works of God? 29JESUS ANSWERED and said to them, “THIS IS THE WORK OF GOD, that YOU BELIEVE IN HIM WHOM HE SENT.” …” (John 6:28 – 29, NKJV)
2) Who are Unsaved?
i) Those who didn’t believe at all
“… 11“Now the parable is this: The seed is the word of God. 12Those by the wayside are the ones who hear; then the devil comes and takes away the word out of their hearts, lest they should believe and be saved. …” (Luke 8:11 – 12, NKJV)
ii) Those who “believed for a while” but fall away when “Temptation” comes (please notice that ‘you can believe for a while and falling into temptation is considered becoming unsaved)
“… 13But the ones on the rock are those who, when they hear, receive the word with joy; and these have no root, WHO BELIEVE FOR A WHILE and in TIME OF [G]TEMPTATION FALL AWAY. …” (Luke 8:13, NKJV)
iii) Those who didn’t bring any fruit to maturity are ones who are occupied with this “World’s Cares”
“… 14Now the ones that fell among thorns are those who, when they have heard, go out and are choked with cares, riches, and pleasures of life, and bring no fruit to maturity. … ” (Luke 18:14, NKJV)
3) Then which “Believing causes Salvation”?
Christ Says Personally that it refers to those with a “GOOD HEART” and those that are “HONEST” and “BEAR FRUIT with PATIENCE”:
“… 15But the ones that fell on the GOOD GROUND are those who, having heard the word with a NOBLE and GOOD HEART, keep it and BEAR FRUIT WITH PATIENCE …” (Luke 8:15, NKJV)
Or
“… But that on the good ground are they, which in an HONEST and GOOD HEART, having heard the word, keep it, and BRING FORTH FRUIT WITH PATIENCE. …” (Luke 8:15, KJV)
The word “PATIENCE” to “BEAR FRUIT” sounds similar to Verse below:
“… 6who “will render to each one according to his deeds”: 7ETERNAL LIFE to those who by PATIENT CONTINUANCE in DOING GOOD good seek for glory, honor, and immortality; . …” (Romans 2:6 – 7, NKJV)
4) Can one “BELIEVE IN VAIN”? Yes:
“… 1Moreover, brethren, I declare to you the GOSPEL WHICH I PREACHED TO YOU, which also you received and IN WHICH YOU STAND, 2by which also YOU ARE SAVED, IF YOU HOLD FAST THAT WORD WHICH I PREACHED TO YOU—UNLESS YOU BELIEVED IN VAIN. 3For I delivered to you first of all that which I also received: that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, 4and that He was buried, and that He rose again the third day according to the Scriptures, 5and that He was seen by [a]Cephas, then by the twelve. 6After that He was seen by over five hundred brethren at once, of whom the greater part remain to the present, but some have [b]fallen asleep. 7After that He was seen by James, then by all the apostles. 8Then last of all He was seen by me also, as by one born out of due time. …” (1 Corinthians 15:1 – 8, NKJV)
Conclusion – The Saved Christians are only those who have “Faith” and “Patience” in their “Labor of Love” or ‘Charity Doctrine’ Lifestyle
Can Christians who have accepted His Holy Spirit fall away? Yes:
“… 4For it is IMPOSSIBLE for those who were once enlightened, and HAVE TASTED THE HEAVENLY GIFT, and HAVE BECOME PARTAKERS OF THE HOLY SPIRIT, 5and HAVE TASTED THE GOOD WORD OF GOD and the POWERS OF THE AGE TO COME, 6[c]IF THEY FALL AWAY, to RENEW THEM AGAIN TO REPENTANCE, since they crucify again for themselves the Son of God, and put Him to an open shame. 7For the earth which drinks in the rain that often comes upon it, and bears herbs useful for those by whom it is cultivated, receives blessing from God; 8but if it bears thorns and briers, it is rejected and near to being cursed, WHOSE END IS TO BE BURNED. …” (Hebrews 6:4 – 8, NKJV)
Please notice that this refers to those who are Christians as they have become “PARTAKERS OF HIS HOLY SPIRIT”, possibly being ‘Born Again’ and experiencing the ‘Power of the Age to Come’ & ‘Tasting the Heavenly Gift’ but fall away instead of continuing in REPENTANCE whose end is to be BURNED.
Christians often read till the Verses above in Hebrews 6 and ‘miss’ the next set of consecutive Verses (below) which describe the ‘Saved Christians’ as opposed to the ‘Fallen away Christians described in Verses above’ especially regarding “… THINGS THAT ACCOMPANY SALVATION …”, Verses:
“… 9But, beloved, we are confident of better things concerning you, yes, THINGS THAT ACCOMPANY SALVATION, though we speak in this manner. 10For God is not unjust to forget your work and [d]LABOR OF LOVE which you have shown toward His name, in that YOU HAVE MINISTERED TO THE SAINTS, AND DO MINISTER. 11And we desire that EACH ONE OF YOU SHOW THE SAME DILIGENCE To the full assurance of hope until the end, 12that you do not become [e]sluggish, but IMITATE THOSE WHO THROUGH FAITH AND PATIENCE INHERIT THE PROMISES. …” (Hebrews 6:9 – 12, NKJV)
Comment: In the “… THINGS THAT ACCOMPANY SALVATION, …” Did you notice that the Verses in this Chapter (even here) only mention “faith” with “patience” referring only to the “Labor of Love” (which is the ‘Charity Doctrine’) sharing of physical/literal Goods of this World to the other believers or ‘Saints’ as the “True Imitation of Faith” and nothing else is Written in these ‘Essential for Salvation Doctrine Verses’?
Please allow me to repeat Hebrews 6:10 above in a few translations so that you can see this rarely observed Truth “as it is Written”:
New International Version
God is not unjust; he will not FORGET YOUR WORK AND THE LOVE YOU HAVE SHOWN him as you have HELPED HIS PEOPLE and CONTINUE TO HELP THEM.
New Living Translation
For God is not unjust. He will not forget how hard you have worked for him and how you have SHOWN YOUR LOVE TO HIM by CARING FOR OTHER BELIEVERS, AS YOU STILL DO.
English Standard Version
For God is not unjust so as to overlook your work and THE LOVE THAT YOU HAVE SHOWN for his name in SERVING THE SAINTS, AS YOU STILL DO.
King James Bible
For God is not unrighteous to forget your work and LABOUR OF LOVE, which ye have shewed toward his name, in that YE HAVE MINISTERED TO THE SAINTS, and DO MINISTER.
New American Standard Bible
For God is not unjust so as to forget YOUR WORK AND THE LOVE which you have shown toward His name, by HAVING SERVED AND BY STILL SERVING THE SAINTS.
We are not Saved by these Works but a Saved Christian will exhibit a lifestyle of “Labor of Love” as these Verses imply above. Please notice that this doesn’t mean to “Do Good Works” toward “Christians only” (but rather the Verse above is particularly pointing to it “especially”) as we ought to do it toward “all men” too in our capacity as it is Written in Verses below:
“… Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us DO GOOD TO ALL, ESPECIALLY to those who are of the HOUSEHOLD OF FAITH. …” (Galatians 6:19, NKJV)
“… And if you do good to those who do good to you, what credit is that to you? For even sinners do the same. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 6:33, NKJV)
“… 38“YOU HAVE HEARD THAT IT WAS SAID, ‘An EYE FOR AN EYE and a tooth for a tooth.’ 39But I TELL YOU NOT TO RESIST AN EVIL PERSON. But whoever slaps you on your right cheek, turn the other to him also. 40If anyone wants to sue you and TAKE AWAY YOUR TUNIC, LET HIM HAVE YOUR CLOAK ALSO. 41And whoever compels you to go one mile, go with him two. 42GIVE to him who asks you, and from him WHO WANTS TO BORROW from you DO NOT TURN AWAY. 43“You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ 44[o]But I SAY TO YOU, LOVE YOUR ENEMIES, … 47And if you greet your [p]brethren only, WHAT DO YOU DO MORE THAN OTHERS? …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 5:38 – 44, 47, NKJV)
This is the “Will of God” which all who are “Predestined” to be “Saved by Faith” will do such “Good Works” in their lives accordingly fulfilling their “Purpose” of being “Created by God”, Verses:
“… 8For by GRACE you have been SAVED THROUGH FAITH, and that NOT OF YOURSELVES; it is the GIFT OF GOD, 9NOT OF WORKS, lest anyone should boast. 10For we are His workmanship, CREATED IN CHRIST JESUS for GOOD WORKS, which GOD PREPARED BEFOREHAND that WE SHOULD WALK IN THEM. …” (Ephesians 2:8 – 10, NKJV)
It’s by Relative Measure in life as the poor can only do with what they have which can be more than our giving easily and the thief on the cross only could do a profession of faith as he cannot do anything more being sentenced to death, Verses:
“… 1And He looked up and saw the rich putting their gifts into the treasury, 2and He saw also a certain poor widow putting in two mites.[a] 3So He said, “TRULY I say to you that this POOR widow has put in MORE THAN ALL; 4for all these out of their abundance have put in offerings [b]for God, but she OUT OF HER POVERTY PUT IN ALL THE LIVELIHOOD THAT SHE HAD.” …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 21:1 – 4, NKJV)
“… 46the master of that servant will come on a day when he is not looking for him, and at an hour when he is not aware, and will cut him in two and appoint him his portion with the unbelievers. 47And that servant who KNEW HIS MASTER’S WILL, and did not prepare himself or do according to his will, shall be BEATEN WITH MANY STRIPES. But he who DID NOT KNOW, yet committed things deserving of stripes, shall be BEATEN WITH FEW. For EVERYONE to whom MUCH IS GIVEN, from him MUCH WILL BE REQUIRED; and to whom MUCH HAS BEEN COMMITTED, of him they WILL ASK THE MORE. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 12:46 – 48, NKJV)
“… COMMAND those who are RICH … Let them DO GOOD, that they be RICH in GOOD WORKS, ready to GIVE, willing to SHARE, 19storing up for themselves a good FOUNDATION for the TIME to COME, that they MAY lay HOLD on ETERNAL LIFE. …” (1 Timothy 6:17 – 19, NKJV)
Related Verses:
“… . 19EVERY TREE that does NOT BEAR GOOD FRUIT is CUT DOWN AND THROWN INTO THE FIRE. 20Therefore by their fruits you will know them. 21“Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father in heaven. 22MANY will say to Me in that day, ‘Lord, Lord, have we NOT PROPHESIED in Your name, CAST OUT DEMONS in Your name, and DONE MANY WONDERS in Your name?’ 23And then I will declare to them, ‘I NEVER KNEW YOU; depart from Me, you who practice LAWLESSNESS! 24“Therefore WHOEVER HEARS THESE SAYINGS OF MINE, and DOES THEM, I will liken him to a WISE MAN who BUILT HIS HOUSE ON THE ROCK: …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 7:19 – 24, NKJV)
“… For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision nor uncircumcision avails anything, but FAITH WORKING THROUGH LOVE. … For ALL THE LAW IS FULFILLED in one word, even in this: “YOU SHALL LOVE YOUR NEIGHBOR AS YOURSELF.” …” (Galatians 5:6, 14, NKJV)
The phrase “… FAITH WORKING THROUGH LOVE …” = ‘Faith with Charity Doctrine’ because ‘Charity Doctrine is Love in Action’, Verses:
“… 16By this WE KNOW LOVE, because He laid down His life for us. And we also OUGHT TO LAY DOWN OUR LIVES FOR THE BRETHREN. 17But WHOEVER HAS THIS WORLD’S GOODS, and SEES HIS BROTHER IN NEED, AND SHUTS UP HIS HEART FROM HIM, HOW DOES THE LOVE OF GOD ABIDE IN HIM? 18My little children, let us NOT LOVE IN WORD or IN TONGUE, BUT IN DEED AND IN TRUTH …” (1 John 3:16 – 18, NKJV)
P/S: Hope beyond the Fire?
I am not sure but it’s “Possible” if God Wills (Let Him Alone Decide) according to these Verses if it means so:
“… 14If anyone’s work which he has built on it endures, he will receive a reward. 15If anyone’s work is burned, he will suffer loss; but HE HIMSELF WILL BE SAVED, YET SO AS THROUGH FIRE. …” (1 Corinthians 3:14 – 15, NKJV)
“… 22But I say to you that whoever is angry with his brother without a cause shall be in DANGER OF THE JUDGMENT. And whoever says to his brother, ‘Raca!’ shall be in danger of the council. But whoever says, ‘You fool!’ shall be in DANGER OF HELL [GEHENNA] FIRE. 23Therefore if you bring your gift to the altar, and there remember that your brother has something against you, 24leave your gift there before the altar, and go your way. First be reconciled to your brother, and then come and offer your gift. 25Agree with your adversary quickly, while you are on the way with him, lest your adversary deliver you to the JUDGE, the JUDGE hand you over to the officer, and you be THROWN INTO PRISON. 26Assuredly, I say to you, YOU WILL BY NO MEANS GET OUT OF THERE TILL YOU HAVE PAID THE LAST PENNY. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 5:22 – 26, NKJV)
Or
“… “And why do you not even judge by yourselves what is right? For while you are going with your opponent to appear before the magistrate, on your way there make an effort to settle with him, so that he may not drag you BEFORE the JUDGE, and the JUDGE turn you over to the officer, and the officer THROW YOU INTO PRISON. “I say to you, YOU WILL NOT GET OUT OF THERE UNTIL YOU HAVE PAID THE VERY LAST CENT. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 12:57 – 59, NASB)
Here’s a First Christianity Quote in a Book considered as Scripture by many Early Christians which may agree to this Context of “Possible” Hope:
Context = Definition of Saved
Saved = Part of the Tower of Repentance = Being His Church /Bride
Not Saved = not His Church = have not Salvation (referring to ‘not’ being part of the First Resurrection Revelation 20:4 – 6 when He Returns, Matthew 7:21 – 23) but may be saved post-Judgment into ‘lower afterlife abodes’ especially if they were ‘sinners’ who participated in the righteous Word before backsliding. Yes, these same rejected unsaved stones are said to be saved in another place more humble eventually, to quote:
“… Do you wish to know who are the others which fell near the waters, but could not be rolled into them? THESE ARE THEY WHO HAVE HEARD THE WORD, and WISH TO BE BAPTIZED in the name of the Lord; but when the chastity demanded by the truth comes into their recollection, they draw back, and AGAIN WALK AFTER THEIR OWN WICKED DESIRES.” She finished her exposition of the tower. But I, shameless as I yet was, asked her, “IS REPENTANCE POSSIBLE FOR ALL THOSE STONES WHICH HAVE BEEN CAST AWAY and DID NOT FIT INTO THE BUILDING of the TOWER, AND WILL THEY YET HAVE A PLACE IN THIS TOWER?” “REPENTANCE,” said she, “IS YET POSSIBLE, BUT IN THIS TOWER [of Repentance*] THEY CANNOT FIND A SUITABLE PLACE. But in another and MUCH INFERIOR PLACE THEY WILL BE LAID, and that, too, ONLY WHEN THEY HAVE BEEN TORTURED AND COMPLETED THE DAYS OF THEIR SINS. And on this account will they be transferred, because they have partaken of the righteous Word. And then only will they be removed from their punishments when the thought of repenting of the evil deeds which they have done has come into their hearts. But if it does not come into their hearts, they will not be saved, on account of the hardness of their heart.” …” – Shepherd of Hermas (Chapter VII, Third Vision, Translated by another Well Known Scholar Mr. Roberts-Donaldson)
Source:
http://www.earlychristianwritings.com/text/shepherd.html
Comment: This Hope in the Mysterious Shepherd of Hermas Writing points not just to ‘fallen Christians’ (as ‘other rejected stones’ in this parabolic Vision) but may also refer to “Unbaptised non-Christians” who were a little favourable to the Gospel despite not repenting on earth and returning to their own wicked ways as this phrase at the start includes this entire ‘Spirit World Hope/Afterlife Hope’ toward them too as they might have participated in the Righteous Word in keeping some commands of God such as ‘Love others or do the Charity Doctrine or keep holy at some parts in their lives’ (not that they are Saved because of this but may be shown Mercy if God Wills) in this phrase from above which seems to include them too “… THESE ARE THEY WHO HAVE HEARD THE WORD, and WISH TO BE BAPTIZED in the name of the Lord; …” But “… they draw back, and AGAIN WALK AFTER THEIR OWN WICKED DESIRES.” …”. Could Luke 12:46 refer to this “Place” (much more INFERIOR as this Vision States) which is assigned to both “Fallen Christians” and “unbelievers” alike?
“… … 46the master of that servant will come on a day when he is not looking for him, and at an hour when he is not aware, and will cut him in two and APPOINT HIM HIS PORTION WITH THE UNBELIEVERS. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 12:46, NKJV)
I repeat, I am “not” saying it is, but it is “Possible”. Let God Decide on that Day and we need not Judge it now as it’s not the time as per 1 Corinthians 4:5.
Who considered this ‘Shepherd of Hermas’ Writing as Scripture in First Christianity? Discussed in detail in link below:
https://www.facebook.com/jonathan.ramachandran/posts/10159121203392784
Example Quotes for Edification:
i. Tertullian (father of Latin Christianity) and Pope St. Callixtus I (head of the entire Roman Catholic Church in his time in First Christianity)
“… Tertullian implies that Pope Callixtus I had quoted it as an authority (though evidently not as one of the books of the Bible), for he replies: “I would admit your argument, if the writing of The Shepherd had deserved to be included in the Divine Instrument, and if it were not judged by every council of the Churches, even of your own Churches, among the apocryphal.” …”
ii. St. Cyprian Carthage and Pseudo-Cyprian writings perspective of the Shepherd of Hermas
“… Cyprian makes no reference to this work, so it would seem to have been out of use in Africa during the early decades of the 3rd century. Somewhat later it is quoted by the author of the pseudo-Cyprianic tract Adversus aleatores as “Scriptura divina”, …”
iii. St. Clement of Alexandria – Head of the Oldest Bible School in First Christianity, the Alexandrian School
“… Though Clement of Alexandria constantly quotes with reverence a work that seems to him to be very useful, and inspired; yet he repeatedly apologizes, when he has occasion to quote it, on the ground that “some people despise it”. …”
Note: the ‘some people who despise it’ doesn’t mean that they’re right as Christians even despise some Bible Verses. No ‘big name’ or saints in First Christianity ever despised the Shepherd of Hermas Writing.
iv. Pseudo Tertullian Writings
“… A poem written against Marcion from the 3rd or 4th century, by a writer adopting the name and persona of Tertullian — and sometimes therefore referred to as “Pseudo-Tertullian” — states “Then, after him, Pius, whose brother according to the flesh was Hermas, the angelic shepherd, because he spoke the words given to him.” Note that Pseudo-Tertullian quotes some details from this list which are absent from the Liberian Catalogue, which may mean that he is independent of it. …”
v. Official Documents of the Reign of Roman Catholic Popes
“… The Liberian Catalogue of Popes, a record that was later used in the writing of the Liber Pontificalis, states in a portion under the heading of 235: “Under his [Pius’] episcopate, his brother Ermes wrote a book in which are contained the precepts which the angel delivered to him, coming to him in the guise of a Shepherd.” …”
vi. St. Irenaeous of Lyons (Hearer/Disciple of St. Polycarp an apostolic father being the direct disciple of Apostle St. John who wrote the Book of Revelation)
“… The Shepherd of Hermas (Greek: Ποιμὴν τοῦ Ἑρμᾶ, Poimēn tou Herma; sometimes just called The Shepherd) is a Christian literary work of the late first half of the second century, considered a valuable book by many Christians, and considered canonical scripture by some of the early Church fathers such as Irenaeus.[1] …”
vii. First Bible in Eastern Christianity (e. g.The “Codex Claromontanus”)
“… The Shepherd was very popular amongst Christians in the 2nd and 3rd centuries.[2] It is part of the Codex Sinaiticus,[3][4] and it is listed between the Acts of the Apostles and the Acts of Paul in the stichometrical list of the Codex Claromontanus. …”
viii. First (Oldest) Bible (Canon) in all of Christianity – The Muratorian Canon or Roman Canon
“… The Muratorian fragment is a list written c. 170 AD (although some scholars now question this date and prefer to assign the fragment to the 4th century.[12]) that may be the earliest known canon of New Testament writings. It identifies Hermas, the author of The Shepherd, as the brother of Pius I, bishop of Rome:
But Hermas wrote The Shepherd very recently, in our times, in the city of Rome, while bishop Pius, his brother, was occupying the chair of the church of the city of Rome. And therefore it ought indeed to be read; but it cannot be read publicly to the people in church either among the Prophets, whose number is complete,[13] or among the Apostles, for it is after their time. …”
Note: the First Christians unanimously approved the Shepherd as Inspired Scripture as the last quote above clearly proves but they didn’t want it to be easily read in church as its knowledge is great and may not be suitable for immature or young believers.
ix. St. Augustine and St. Jerome
“… but in Jerome’s day it was “almost unknown to the Latins”. Curiously, it went out of fashion in the East, so that the Greek manuscripts of it are but two in number; whereas in the West it became better known and was frequently copied in the Middle Ages. …”
Source for each quote above from (i) to (ix):
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Shepherd_of_Hermas
Note: Protestants (like me) may also consider these quotes because all the writings and persons quoted above who endorsed the Shepherd of Hermas Vision including Pope Callixtus I (called now as a Pope as he was the ‘Bishop of Rome’ at that time) do NOT have any prayers to Virgin Mary or equivalent in their writings as this is only found among later fathers of the church.
x. Eusebius (father of Church History) and St. Athanasius the Great (father of Orthodoxy and Champion of Trinity)
To quote from a ‘purely Roman Catholic source’ too:
“… The Muratorian Fragment*(c.200) says: “And very recently in our own times, in the city of Rome, Hermas wrote the Pastor, when his brother Pius, the bishop, sat upon the chair of the city of Rome.” … The Shepherd was well-regarded by several of the Fathers, though there was little interest in it by St. Jerome’s time. St. Irenaeus, Clement of Alexandria and Origen considered the Shepherd inspired, while Eusebius and St. Athanasius approved of its use for catechumens. …”
Source:
https://www.catholicculture.org/commentary/church-fathers-shepherd-hermas/
Peace to you
Nice to see a Conservative Protestant Page Quoting St. John Chrysostom
1) We can Quote Christians or non-Christians as long as the content they write agrees with a Bible Verse.
Yes, nothing is wrong here if you understand that Blessed Apostle St. Paul quoted even “religious Writings of the Greek Poets dedicated to foreign gods” on the part they got right in Example Verse below where he actually was quoting a poem to “Zeus” which is now a New Testament Bible Verse, to quote:
“… Did Paul quote pagan unbelievers in the New Testament? Yes, he did. But, Paul did not quote them for the purpose of supporting them. Instead, he quoted them here and there to aid in defending and spreading the gospel. But, for him to do this, he would have had to study their teachings. If Paul could do it, so can we as long as we are putting quotes in the proper context either exposing error and or building a bridge by which we might better present the truth of God’s word. Paul quoted Menander in the book of Acts and in 1 Corinthians. He quoted Epimenides in the book of Titus. Let’s take a look. ACTS 17:28, “FOR IN HIM WE LIVE and MOVE AND EXIST, AS EVEN SOME OF YOUR OWN POETS HAVE SAID, ‘FOR WE ALSO ARE HIS CHILDREN.’” “The first part of verse 28 comes from Cretica by Epimenides, and the SECOND PART OF THE VERSE FROM HYMN TO ZEUS, WRITTEN BY THE CILICIAN POET ARATUS. To be sure, BOTH OF THESE LINES WERE DIRECTED AT ZEUS IN GREEK LITERATURE, but PAUL APPLIED THEM TO THE CREATOR OF WHOM HE SPOKE.”1 …”
Source:
Interesting, isn’t it?
2) Example of other St. John Chrysostom’s Quotes which might be True
St. John Chrysostom
“… Hom. lxxviii, In the foregoing parable the Lord set forth the punishment of the man who beat, and was drunk, and wasted [p. 844] his Lord’s goods; in this He declares his punishment who profits not, and does not prepare for himself abundantly the things of which he has need; for the foolish virgins had oil, but not enough. … And He employs the character virgins in this parable to shew, that though virginity be a great thing, yet if it be not accompanied by works of mercy, it shall be cast out with the adulterers. … Or, The “oil” denotes charity, alms, and every aid rendered to the needy; the lamps denote the gifts of virginity; and He calls them “foolish,” because after having gone through the greater toil, they lost all for the sake of a less; for it is greater labour to overcome the desires of the flesh than of money. … You see then how great merchants the poor are to us; but the poor are not there, but here, and therefore we must store up oil here, that we may have it to use there when occasion shall require. … That, “While they went to buy,” shews that even, if we should become merciful after death, it will avail us nothing to escape punishment, as it was no profit to the rich man, that he became merciful and careful about those who belonged to him. …” – Blessed St. John Chrysostom, Archbishop of Constantinople, Doctor of the Church, one of the Three Holy Hierarchs (c. 349 AD – c. 407 AD, Commentary on Matthew 25:1 – 13’s Parable of the Five Wise/Foolish Virgins in Catena Aurea)
Source:
https://sites.google.com/site/aquinasstudybible/home/matthew-commentary/catena-aurea-on-matthew/chapter-1/chapter-2/chapter-3/chapter-4/chapter-5/chapter-6/chapter-7/chapter-8/chapter-9/chapter-10/chapter-11/chapter-12/chapter-13/chapter-14/chapter-15/chapter-16/chapter-17/chapter-18/chapter-19/chapter-20/chapter-21/chapter-22/chapter-23/chapter-24/chapter-25
“… Nothing is so incongruous in a Christian, and foreign to his character, as to seek ease and rest; and to be engrossed with the present life is foreign to our profession and enlistment. Your Master was crucified, and do you seek ease? Your Master was pierced with nails, and do you live delicately? Do these things become a noble soldier? Wherefore PAUL SAYS, MANY WALK, of whom I told you often, and now tell you even weeping, that they are the ENEMIES OF THE CROSS OF CHRIST (Philippians 3:18). Since there were some who made a PRETENSE OF CHRISTIANITY, YET LIVED IN EASE AND LUXURY, and this is CONTRARY TO THE CROSS: therefore he thus spoke. … . As when he says, Except a man TAKE UP HIS CROSS AND FOLLOW ME Matthew 16:24, i.e. except he be prepared to die. But these being base, and LOVERS OF LIFE, and LOVERS OF THEIR BODIES, are ENEMIES OF THE CROSS. And every one, who is a FRIEND OF LUXURY, and of PRESENT SAFETY, is an ENEMY OF THAT CROSS in WHICH PAUL MAKES HIS BOAST: which he embraces, with which he desires to be incorporated. …” – Blessed St. John Chrysostom, Archbishop of Constantinople, Doctor of the Church, one of the three Holy Hirearchs (c. 349 AD – c. 407 AD, Commentary on Philippians 3:18 – 21)
Source:
https://sites.google.com/site/aquinasstudybible/home/philippians/st-john-chrysostom-on-philippians/chapter-1/chapter-2/chapter-3
“… Mercy is the highest art and the shield of those who practice it. It is the friend of God, standing always next to him and freely blessing whatever he wishes. It must not be despised by us. For in its purity it grants great liberty to those who respond to it in kind. It must be shown to those who have quarreled with us, as well as to those who have sinned against us, so great is its power. It breaks chains, dispels darkness, extinguishes fire, kills the worm and takes away the gnashing of teeth. (Mk 9:44-48) By it the gates of heaven open with the greatest of ease. In short, mercy is a queen which makes men like God. …” – Blessed St. John Chrysostom, Doctor of the Church, Archbishop of Constantinople (c. 349 AD – c. 407 AD)
Source [Commentary on James 2:13]:
https://sites.google.com/site/aquinasstudybible/home/james/ancient-christian-commentary-james-2
Few more Mysterious Quotes from this Source:
“… John Chrysostom Homily 7 on John’s gospel (347-407 ad)
But there is another more prevailing way than this; to bear malice against none of those who have offended against us, to forgive their trespasses to all those who have trespassed against us. Will you learn a third? Hear Daniel, saying, “Redeem thy sins by almsdeeds, and thine iniquities by showing mercy to the poor.” (Dan. iv. 27, LXX.) And there is another besides this; constancy in prayer, and persevering attendance on the intercessions made with God. In like manner fasting brings to us some, and that not small comfort and release from sins committed, provided it be attended with kindness to others, and quenches the vehemence of the wrath of God. (1 Tim. ii. 1.) For “water will quench a blazing fire, and by almsdeeds sins are purged away.” (Ecclus. iii. 30, LXX.)
John Chrysostom Homily 4 on Philippians (347-407 ad)
And again, “And let our people also learn to maintain good works.” (Tit. iii. 14.) And again, “These things are good and profitable unto men.” (Tit. iii. 8.) Listen to a certain other one who saith, “Alms do deliver from death” (Tob. xii. 9)
John Chrysostom Homily 21 on Acts ch 9 (347-407 ad)
more sins he has to answer for, the greater need has he of alms, not only for this reason, but because the alms has not the. same virtue now, but far less: for it is not all one to have done it himself, and to have another do it for him; therefore, the virtue being less, let us by quantity make it the greatest. Let us not busy ourselves about monuments, not about memorials. This is the greatest memorial: set widows to stand around him. Tell them his name: bid them all make for him their prayers, their supplications: this will overcome God: though it have not been done by the man himself, yet because of him another is the author of the almsgiving. Even this pertains to the mercy of God: “widows standing around and weeping” know how to rescue, not indeed from the present death, but from that which is to come. Many have profited even by the alms done by others on their behalf: for even if they have not got perfect be not so.
Note: The quote “…know how to rescue, not indeed from the present death, but from that which is to come …” by Blessed St. John Chrysostom, Doctor of the Church, Archbishop of Constantinople (c. 349 AD – c. 407 AD) seems to point to the [Second] Death in light of this Almsgiving Context in his writings especially the phrase “… rescue, not … the present death, but from that which is to come [Second Death] …”. …”
Source:
https://practicalapologetics.blogspot.com/2013/07/early-church-fathers-on-almsgiving.html
3) Example of other St. John Chrysostom’s Quotes where he might have erred
“… Hail, O Mother! Virgin, heaven, throne, glory of our Church, its foundation and ornament. Earnestly pray for us to Jesus, your Son and Our Lord, that through your intercession we may have mercy on the day of judgment. Pray that we may receive all those good things which are reserved for those who love God. Through the grace and favor of Our Lord, Jesus Christ, to Whom, with the Father and the Holy Spirit, be power, honor, and glory, now and forever. Amen. …” – Blessed St. John Chrysostom, Archbishop of Constantinople, Doctor of the Church, one of the three Holy Hirearchs (c. 349 AD – c. 407 AD)
Source:
https://tomperna.org/2017/09/11/mondays-with-mary-the-marian-prayer-of-st-john-chrysostom/amp/
Conclusion
More people are converted into Christianity via prayers to Virgin Mary as Christian History till today testified that almost 60% of current Christianity today itself is Roman Catholic / Orthodox Versions which pray to Virgin Mary. I still believe that God can Save any Christian who errs on these aspects but you risk “losing your greater reward” if you did it as per Bible Verses. It’s “Possible” based on this Verse but a “loss of Reward” is clearly implied:
“… Let NO ONE CHEAT YOU of YOUR REWARD, taking delight in false humility and WORSHIP OF ANGELS, intruding into those things which he has not seen, vainly puffed up by his fleshly mind, …” (Colossians 2:18, NKJV)
In comparison, to err on “First Love” and “First Works” seems to be complete Doom as discussed with Bible Verses took in link below:
https://www.facebook.com/651792783/posts/10160878158747784/
Peace to you
Born Again Mystery and Which is the Worst Heresy of All? – Safe Route Scripturally
Source Post:
https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=10160879418392784&id=651792783
Lack of “Love” which signifies that such persons “are not Born Again”, Verses:
“…7Beloved, let us love one another, for love is of God; and EVERONE WHO LOVES is BORN OF GOD and KNOWS GOD. 8He who does not love does not know God, for GOD IS LOVE …” (1 John 4:7 – 8, NKJV)
Please notice the rarely known phrase “… BORN OF GOD …” in 1 John 4:7 above which refers to the Context of Being Born Again (thus the Evidence of Being ‘Born Again’ is that such a Person Loves everyone including his enemies as per Christ’s Commands, e.g. Matthew 5:38 – 48) without which ‘one cannot enter the Kingdom of God nor see it’:
“… 5JESUS answered, “Most assuredly, I say to you, unless one is BORN OF WATER AND THE SPIRIT, he cannot enter the kingdom of God. 6That which is born of the flesh is flesh, and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit. 7Do not marvel that I said to you, ‘YOU MUST BE BORN AGAIN.’ 8The wind blows where it wishes, and you hear the sound of it, but cannot tell where it comes from and where it goes. So is EVERYONE WHO IS BORN OF THE SPIRIT.” …” (John 3:5 – 8, NKJV)
Whoever is considered a believer that is “Born Again” is stated only with the condition of “Born to Love” others and “Obey His Commands” (example: His Famous “… But I tell you Commands …” when He even Cancelled some of the Torah/Old Testament Commands) as per Verses below too with ‘no other conditions’ mentioned proving it to be the only proof needed & vice versa:
“… Whoever BELIEVES that Jesus is the Christ is BORN OF GOD, and everyone who loves Him who begot also loves him who is begotten of Him. 2By this we know that we love the children of God, when WE LOVE GOD and KEEP HIS COMMANDMENTS. 3For this is the love of God, that we keep His commandments. And His commandments are not burdensome. 4For whatever is born of God overcomes the world. And this is the victory that has overcome the world—[a]our faith. 5Who is he who overcomes the world, but he who believes that Jesus is the Son of God? …” (1 John 5:1 – 5, NKJV)
So, Faith without His Commandments fails especially when it misses His Greatest Commands which is to Love:
“… 29JESUS answered him, “The [k]first of all the commandments is: ‘Hear, O Israel, the Lord our God, the Lord is one. 30And you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your mind, and with all your strength.’ [l]This is the first commandment. 31And the second, like it, is this: ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is NO OTHER COMMANDMENT GREATER THAN THESE.” …” (Mark 12:29 – 31, NKJV)
Even “All Faith” cannot overcome anything nor avails to anything if there was “no Love” (the two greatest commands above is referred to in Context as well):
“… and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, but have not love, I am nothing. …” (1 Corinthians 13:2, NKJV)
“… 27Now you are the body of Christ, and members individually. 28And God has appointed these in the church: first apostles, second prophets, third teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of healings, helps, administrations, varieties of tongues. 29Are all apostles? Are all prophets? Are all teachers? Are ALL WORKERS OF MIRACLES? 30DO ALL HAVE GIFTS OF HEALINGS? DO ALL SPEAK WITH TONGUES? Do all interpret? 31But earnestly desire the [i]best gifts. And YET I SHOW YOU A MORE EXCELLENT WAY. …” (1 Corinthians 12:27 – 30, NKJV)
The Bible Verses above clearly imply these two things:
i) “not” all the faithful will do these Miracles , Healings nor Speak in tongues
ii) There is a more “excellent way” which has nothing to do with these gifts (a Great Bible Secret) – What is it? (The next Verses which begin the next Chapter clearly Reveals Apostle St. Paul Talking about “Agape/God’s Love” as the Greatest Gift)
“… But earnestly desire the best gifts. And yet I show you A MORE EXCELLENT WAY [of Agape, Love of God]. … 1Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I have become sounding brass or a clanging cymbal. 2And though I have the gift of prophecy, and understand all mysteries and all knowledge, and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, but have not love, I am nothing. 3And though I bestow all my goods to feed the poor, and though I give my body [a]to be burned, but have not love, it profits me nothing. … And now abide faith, hope, love, these three; but the GREATEST OF THESE IS LOVE. … ” – The Wise and Gifted Blessed St. Paul the Apostle (1 Corinthians 12:31, 1 Corinthians 13:1 – 3, 13, NKJV)
How to Practice this MORE EXCELLENT WAY than all those Spiritual Gifts earlier? Blessed Apostle St. Paul continues:
“… 4Love suffers long and is kind; love does not envy; love does not parade itself, is not [b]puffed up; 5does not behave rudely, does not seek its own, is not provoked, [c]thinks no evil; 6does not rejoice in iniquity, but rejoices in the truth; 7bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. 8Love never fails. But whether there are prophecies, they will fail; whether there are tongues, they will cease; whether there is knowledge, it will vanish away. 9For we know in part and we prophesy in part. 10But when that which is [d]perfect has come, then that which is in part will be done away. …” (1 Corinthians 13:4 – 10, NKJV)
First Christianity Example of Agape/Love of God in Practice:
“… Who then among you is noble-minded? who compassionate? who full of love? Let him declare, “If on my account sedition and disagreement and schisms have arisen, I will depart, I will go away whithersoever you desire, and I will do whatever the majority commands; only let the flock of Christ live on terms of peace with the presbyters set over it.” He that acts thus shall procure to himself great glory in the Lord; and every place will welcome him. For “the earth is the Lord’s, and the fulness thereof.” These things they who live a godly life, that is never to be repented of, both have done and always will do. … ” – Blessed St. Clement of Rome, an Apostolic Father being a direct Disciple of the Blessed Apostle St. Peter (c.35 AD – c. 99 AD, 1 Clement Chapter 54)
Source [CHAPTER 54 — HE WHO IS FULL OF LOVE WILL INCUR EVERY LOSS, THAT PEACE MAY BE RESTORED TO THE CHURCH]:
http://www.earlychristianwritings.com/text/1clement-roberts.html
This is the main reason why ‘we don’t believe in forming our own church even if we are right’ but as Blessed St. Clement of Rome commands in his apostolic authority, “… I will do whatever the majority commands …” even if it includes being kicked out of the church, i.e. “… If on my account sedition and disagreement and schisms have arisen, I will depart, I will go away whithersoever you desire …” as long as the Majority of Christians is happy [i.e. “… only let the flock of Christ live on terms of peace with the presbyters set over it …”] & this is not in reference of a heretic being put off from a Church but is referring to a True Christian as “… These things they who live a godly life, that is never to be repented of, both have done and always will do …” because these belong to “… Who then among you is noble-minded? who compassionate? who full of love? …” where their reward of leaving Church is not eternal hell but amazingly, “… He that acts thus shall procure to himself great glory in the Lord; and every place will welcome him …” . Are we behaving in such a manner or forming Churches in every corner causing Schisms after Schisms?
Are the leaders who form schisms better than St. Clement of Rome?
Agape/Love is the Greatest being even Greater than Faith according to 1 Corinthians 13:13 earlier. The Bible also records the following warning:
1. An ‘all right accurate faith which can move mountains’ (as only an Right Doctrine Faith can move mountains) can still be present in a person with “no” Agape/Love of God:
“… and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, but have not love, I am nothing. …” (1 Corinthians 13:2, NKJV)
2. A Christian can die a martyr or even do missions work till they give all their goods to the poor but still have “no” Agape/Love of God:
“… 3And though I bestow all my goods to feed the poor, and though I give my body [a]to be burned, but have not love, it profits me nothing. …” (1 Corinthians 13:3, NKJV)
What is not the works of the Law is Whatever Christ Commanded in the New Testament Verses such as the “Charity Doctrine” (e.g. Matthew 25:31 – 46, Luke 12:31 – 35, Luke 10:25 – 37, Galatians 5:14, Luke 11:39 – 41) which are all thus WORKS OF MERCY against which there is “no” Law being the “Fruits of the Spirit” Manifested in Action (e.g. Galatians 5:22 – 23, 1 John 3:14 – 18).
Please don’t be deceived. Also “Judgment” is “not” one of the “Fruits of the Spirit” but the Acts of the Charity Doctrine are such as it encompasses “Goodness, love, long-suffering, gentleness and Kindness”.
“… 22But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23[g]gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no law. …” (Galatians 5:22 – 23, NKJV)
The only Judgment allowed in the New Testament is ‘Warn them of sin’ but don’t judge them for it but rather execute “True Judgment” which is to “Forgive by showing MERCY and COMPASSION” instead, please allow me to repeat:
“… Thus speaketh the LORD of hosts, saying, Execute TRUE JUDGMENT, and SHEW MERCY AND COMPASSIONS every man to his brother: …” (Zechariah 7:9, KJV)
Based on these “Bible Verses” and not the opinions of men, does a Christianity which plays politics, kills/injures its enemies, etc. sound like being “Born Again” against Christ’s Commands of Perfection to “not resist an evil person” and cancelling the Old Testament Judgment of Evil on earth part such as eye for an eye & hate your enemy context and replacing it with “Love your enemies” only? These Verses:
“… 38“You have heard that it was said, ‘An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth.’ [Deuteronomy 19:21 above] 39BUT I TELL YOU NOT to RESIST an EVIL PERSON. But whoever slaps you on your right cheek, turn the other to him also. 40If anyone wants to sue you and take away your tunic, let him have your cloak also. 41And whoever compels you to go one mile, go with him two. 42Give to him who asks you, and from him who wants to borrow from you do not turn away. 43“You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall love your neighbor and HATE YOUR ENEMY.’ 44[o]BUT I SAY TO YOU, LOVE YOUR ENEMIES, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you, 45that you may be SONS OF YOUR FATHER in heaven; for He makes His sun rise on the evil and on the good, and sends rain on the just and on the unjust. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 5:38 – 45, NKJV)
Please notice carefully that in Verse above Christ Describes the “… SONS OF YOUR FATHER in heaven …” refers only to those who have Practiced “… 38“You have heard that it was said, ‘An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth.’ [Deuteronomy 19:21 above] 39BUT I TELL YOU NOT to RESIST an EVIL PERSON. …” and “… 43“You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall love your neighbor and HATE YOUR ENEMY.’ 44[o]BUT I SAY TO YOU, LOVE YOUR ENEMIES, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you …” which certainly disqualifies a ‘Executing Judgment of Earth type of Christianity’, right?
Another Verse confirming this Lifestyle among the “Chosen”:
“… 9But, beloved, we are confident of better things concerning you, yes, THINGS THAT ACCOMPANY SALVATION, though we speak in this manner. 10For God is not unjust to forget your work and [d]LABOR OF LOVE which you have shown toward His name, in that YOU HAVE MINISTERED TO THE SAINTS, AND DO MINISTER. 11And we desire that EACH ONE OF YOU SHOW THE SAME DILIGENCE To the full assurance of hope until the end, 12that you do not become [e]sluggish, but IMITATE THOSE WHO THROUGH FAITH AND PATIENCE INHERIT THE PROMISES. …” (Hebrews 6:9 – 12, NKJV)
Comment: In the “… THINGS THAT ACCOMPANY SALVATION, …” Did you notice that the Verses in this Chapter (even here) only mention “faith” with “patience” referring only to the “Labor of Love” (which is the ‘Charity Doctrine’) sharing of physical/literal Goods of this World to the other believers or ‘Saints’ as the “True Imitation of Faith” and nothing else is Written in these ‘Essential for Salvation Doctrine Verses’?
I still believe that God can Save any Christian who errs on some aspects but you risk “losing your greater reward” if you did it as per Bible Verses which point to it.
For example, a Christian with the “Worship of Angels” practice (which is worse than ‘Praying to Angels’) may be saved but loses his reward based on this Verse:
“… Let NO ONE CHEAT YOU of YOUR REWARD, taking delight in false humility and WORSHIP OF ANGELS, intruding into those things which he has not seen, vainly puffed up by his fleshly mind, …” (Colossians 2:18, NKJV)
Please don’t misquote me as I am strongly against such practices but if the Bible Verses says a “loss of reward”, I don’t want to say beyond that either. So, that’s why I say in such cases where the meanings are difficult to ascertain either way as “Possibilities” because I am not sure. As long as you don’t do it, you are risk-free and safe.
In comparison, to err on “First Love” and “First Works” seems to be complete Doom as discussed with Bible Verses took in link below:
https://www.facebook.com/651792783/posts/10160878158747784/
P/S:
“… IF YOU LOVE ME, KEEP [Obey] MY COMMANDMENTS. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (John 14:15, NKJV)
So, do we REALLY LOVE CHRIST by OBEYING HIS COMMANDS or ‘make up imaginary commands’ which HE NEVER SAID DIRECTLY?
Peace to you
Biblical Christianity – First Christianity – Safe Route Scripturally
Firstly, I do “not” embrace Catholicism’s Practice of Praying to Virgin Mary nor the Saints simply because it is “not Written” in any Verse of Holy Scripture and the Verse below Says to reject any Christianity which does “not” stick to what is “Written in New Testament Verses only” warning clearly “not” to go “beyond what is Written” in the Context of being a “Faithful Steward” of “Christ”:
“… 1Let a man so account of us, as of the ministers of Christ, and stewards of the mysteries of God. 2Moreover it is required in stewards, that a man be found FAITHFUL. … 6And these things, brethren, I have in a figure transferred to myself and to Apollos for your sakes; THAT YE MIGHT LEARN in us NOT TO THINK OF MEN ABOVE THAT WHICH IS WRITTEN, THAT NO ONE OF YOU BE PUFFED UP FOR ONE AGAINST ANOTHER. 7For WHO MAKETH THEE TO DIFFER FROM ANOTHER? and what hast thou that thou didst not receive? now if thou didst receive it, why dost thou glory, as if thou hadst not received it? …” (1 Corinthians 4:1 – 2, 6 – 7, NKJV)
Simple Question: Which “New Testament Verse” Says that?
Second Question: Why don’t you like that “New Testament Verse”?
Third Question: Will you accept Christ if It’s a Christianity which does “not” Preach these “New Testament Commands” or if “not” you will find a “Modern Christianity” which teaches against these “New Testament Verses”?
Fourth Question: So, what does that reveal about us?
Fifth Question: Perhaps our loyalty is toward a Christianity which Preaches not a Bible Verse but cancels New Testament Bible Verses which we are not comfortable with while all the Great Christians of the Past Obeyed it without questioning it.
Sixth Question: So, is our loyalty toward “what we want to hear + Christ’s Heaven – His New Testament Commands”?
This is the real ‘Test of the heart’ as to whether we are loyal to Christ or just want to use Christ to enter Heaven but don’t want His New Testament Commands, right?
Imagine you live in “First Biblical Christianity” and these Commands of the “Lord” (not man-made) were given, will you accept it humbly by Obedience or make an alternate Christianity?
Another Example: Blessed Martin Luther Preached the Parable of the 5 Foolish+ 5 Wise Virgins to refer to “Faith + Charity Doctrine Works of Love in Action” in link below:
https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=10160885716652784&substory_index=0&id=651792783
Are we Preaching likewise?
Seventh Question: Why should I follow your Preachers who Teach “Obedience toward their man-made church rules” when they themselves do “not” obey either the Protestant Founder (Blessed Martin Luther, for example in Preaching as above) or more importantly all those “New Testament Commands” by “Christ” and “His Apostles”?
“… Obedience is better than Sacrifice …” (1 Samuel 15:22)
Did God the Holy Spirit really Teach your denominations to ‘ignore’ these “New Testament Verses” and do it ‘differently’? I don’t approve you nor disapprove you but will let God Decide it.
Just putting it forth that the “Safe Route Scripturally” is to “just obey” these “New Testament Commands” as it was not only in the “Corinthians Church” but as the Evangelist Blessed St. Timothy’s example proves, Blessed Apostle St. Paul taught it in EVERY CHURCH EVERYWHERE as per Verses below (so, I don’t see the wisdom in taking a risk otherwise):
“… 14I write not these things to shame you, but as my beloved sons I warn you. 15For though ye have ten thousand instructors in Christ, yet have ye not MANY FATHERS: for in CHRIST JESUS I HAVE BEGOTTEN you THROUGH THE GOSPEL. 16Wherefore I beseech you, be ye followers of me. 17For this cause have I sent unto you Timotheus, who is my beloved son, and faithful in the Lord, who shall bring you into remembrance of my ways which be in Christ, as I TEACH EVERY WHERE IN EVERY CHURCH. …” (1 Corinthians 4:14 – 17, KJV)
Note: Please note that the Bible Affirms the Existence of the “Fathers of the Church” as Verse above has the phrase “many fathers”.
Popular Question: If they didn’t have Apostle St. Paul’s letters, would that Church have Practiced it?
Reply: The same way if a church didn’t have your Doctrinal handbook, would they preach the doctrine you preach? If you say God Speaks directly to any pastor, then how come your pastors can hear God Speaking against these New Testament Verses but cannot hear Him Speaking these New Testament Verses as it is Written?
Please answer me this: How can a Person Preaching “New Testament Verses” as “it is Written” be referred to in Verses below:
“… 3For the time will come when they will NOT ENDURE SOUND DOCTRINE, but ACCORDING TO THEIR OWN DESIRES, because they have itching ears, they will heap up for themselves teachers; 4and they will turn their ears AWAY FROM THE TRUTH, and be TURNED ASIDE TO FABLES. 5But you be watchful in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, fulfill your ministry. …” (2 Timothy 2:3 – 4, NKJV)
Whether the Verses above refers to those who “Preach against New Testament Commands”, I don’t want to judge them but let God Decide if He Taught them differently or if He Never Did.
One thing is for sure: To Preach any “New Testament Verse” as it is “Written” is the “Safe Route Scripturally” which is “Praised” (not Condemned), Verses:
“… 1 IMITATE ME, just as I also IMITATE CHRIST. 2Now I PRAISE YOU, brethren, that you remember me in all things and KEEP THE TRADITIONS just as I delivered them to you. … 16But if anyone seems to be CONTENTIOUS, we have NO SUCH CUSTOM, NOR DO THE CHURCHES OF GOD. … ” (1 Corinthians 11:1 – 2, 11:16, NKJV)
Peace to you
Charity Doctrine is part of God’s Eternal Rewards
We cannot reap in the Kingdom what we didn’t sow. So, may God help us to be Wise in Doing Eternal Things which includes the Charity Doctrine’s “Unfailing Treasure in Heavens” as it’s part of “Seeking His Kingdom”, Verses:
“… 31“But SEEK HIS KINGDOM, and THESE THINGS will be ADDED TO YOU. 32“Do not be afraid, little flock, for your Father has chosen gladly to give you the kingdom. 33“SELL YOUR POSSESSIONS and GIVE TO CHARITY; make yourselves money belts which do not wear out, an UNFAILING TREASURE IN HEAVEN, where no thief comes near nor moth destroys. 34“For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. 35“Be dressed in readiness, and KEEP YOUR LAMPS LIT. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 12:31 – 35, NASB)
Comment: The Word “Unfailing” in Christ’s Phrase “Unfailing Treasure in Heaven” means it is “Eternal“.
Please don’t let Satan deceive and Rob you by saying you will reap even if you didn’t sow.
God doesn’t look at the result nor the amount of giving but your love & relative measure which makes it ‘fair to all’ (as God has no Partiality) as the widow who gave only two coins which probably couldn’t feed any still gave more than all including the Rich’s giving which had tangible effects.
“… 1And He looked up and saw the rich putting their gifts into the treasury, 2and He saw also a certain poor widow putting in two mites.[a] 3So He said, “TRULY I say to you that this POOR widow has put in MORE THAN ALL; 4for all these out of their abundance have put in offerings [b]for God, but she OUT OF HER POVERTY PUT IN ALL THE LIVELIHOOD THAT SHE HAD.” …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 21:1 – 4, NKJV)
Worldly Logic: If you give your best knowledge or skill for free, then you are stupid and put your “livelihood” or living at risk.
Christ’s Logic: As per the Widow’s giving, if it risks our “livelihood“, then it’s “Love” because no fake givers will ever give till it risks them for the sake of obeying Christ’s Commands of Tangible Giving with what you have.
Christian Women’s Role in Ministry – Safe Route Scripturally with the Charity Doctrine Lifestyle
Even in Christ’s Own Ministry, women assisted in the Charity Doctrine part like providing food ,lodging etc . They were never sent out with spiritual authority. Christ didn’t Choose a women Apostle. If anyone was fit for that, His Mother or even Mary Magdalene would have been chosen but we don’t see them chosen for this.
Ample of New Testament Verses Testify to women fulfilling their ministry by providing “Charity Doctrine” Support toward “other Christians” and “their own family” as their fulfillment of their Gospel Role in “Good Works” together with ‘Preaching the Gospel’ which is not prohibited for them. Example Verses:
1) Godly Women are required to be full of “Good Works” but without having any “work of spiritual authority over a man”.
“… 9in like manner also, that the women adorn themselves in modest apparel, with propriety and [e]moderation, not with braided hair or gold or pearls or costly clothing, 10but, which is proper for WOMEN PROFESSING GODLINESS, WITH GOOD WORKS. 11Let a woman learn in silence with all submission. 12And I DO NOT PERMIT A WOMAN to TEACH OR TO HAVE AUTHORITY OVER A MAN, but TO BE IN SILENCE. 13For Adam was formed first, then Eve. 14And Adam was not deceived, but the woman being deceived, fell into transgression. 15Nevertheless SHE WILL BE SAVED IN CHILDBEARING if they continue in FAITH, LOVE, AND HOLINESS, WITH SELF-CONTROL. …” (1 Timothy 2:9 – 15, NKJV)
Comments:
- It is Written here that Godly Women are full of “Good Works” but with “Zero authority over man type of teaching/works”.
- It is Written here that a “Christian Godly Woman” is “Saved” only if “her faith” is continued with “love, holiness+self-control” where “love in action” is certainly the “Charity Doctrine”. This is “Genuine Faith” to have “Holiness + Charity Doctrine Love in Action Acts” toward others as nothing else is mentioned as essential either in these Verses.
iii. It is Written that she will be saved through childbearing indicating not that she survives giving birth but rather if she plays her role to raise Godly Children. If the children trangress by their own will, it’s not her fault as long as she taught them these & fulfilled her responsibility Biblically and responsibly in “Childbearing” (as she is accountable for the children’s souls if she didn’t do her part well).
2) When Christ and His Apostles Preached the Gospel, women’s role were primarily providing the “Charity Doctrine” Acts toward those men that labor for the Gospel from “their own personal income”.
“… 1Now it came to pass, afterward, that He went through every city and village, preaching and [a]bringing the glad tidings of the kingdom of God. And the twelve were with Him, 2and certain women who had been healed of evil spirits and [b]infirmities—Mary called Magdalene, out of whom had come seven demons, 3and Joanna the wife of Chuza, Herod’s steward, and Susanna, and MANY OTHERS WHO PROVIDED FOR [C]HIM FROM THEIR [D]SUBSTANCE. …” (Luke 8:1 – 3, NKJV)
3) Women can Preach the Gospel but under the Spiritual Authority of a Man as the case of Priscilla and her husband Aquila’s case proves but she doesn’t have Authority over a Man by doing so.
“… So he began to speak boldly in the synagogue. When AQUILA AND PRISCILLA heard him, they took him aside and EXPLAINED TO HIM THE WAY OF GOD MORE ACCURATELY. …” (Acts 18:26, NKJV)
Note: Spiritual Authority acts that are reserved for men are leadership in church and over the flock of God as 1 Timothy 2:10 – 12 Speaks. If someone says that this set of Verses only prohibits a woman from having authority over her husband, they contradict themselves already because how can God allow a Woman to “teach” an “outside man” but “prohibit the teaching to her own husband”? Leadership authority begins at home.
Some scholars think that Priscilla did that but it was later “disallowed” after the order of the Church was begun to take shape with Apostle St. Paul. Please take note that even the non-observance of Jewish Rituals as per Acts 15 toward Gentile believers only came much later though the Gospel was spread first. Similarly Priscilla’s act could be seen in this manner too. Regardless obeying 1 Timothy 2:10 – 12’s Prohibition is what is Endorsed by latest New Testament Scripture.
Please also take note that Priscilla and Aquila explained the Way of God more accurately as these Verses state and not that Priscilla could do it alone. So this Verse doesn’t even support a one to one teaching to correct a man but definitely Aquila took the lead accompanied by his wife Priscilla is most likely what took place.
3) Many Women provided the “Charity Doctrine” Acts toward the Ministry of Christ but Christ didn’t make them Apostles or Spiritual Leaders in any way.
“… 55And MANY WOMEN WHO FOLLOWED JESUS from Galilee, MINISTERING TO HIM, were there looking on from afar, 56among whom were Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James and [n]Joses, and the mother of Zebedee’s sons. …” (Matthew 27:55, NKJV)
4) Women can be Prophetess but they do not assume spiritual leadership as a priest as male prophets can do as per the Old Testament too.
5) Women can assume secular positions as a Judge as Deborah was. Judges were replaced by “kings” later in Israel which proves that this is a secular position. Hence a women can be a boss in the workplace or in worldly positions as even this New Testament Verse proves:
“… Yes, as did “Lydia” in Verses below describing that she sold “Purple Cloth” (which is “expensive wear”; Verses in image too):
“… 13On the Sabbath we went a little way outside the city to a riverbank, where we thought people would be meeting for prayer, and we sat down to speak with some women who had gathered there. 14One of them was LYDIA FROM THYATIRA, a MERCHANT OF EXPENSIVE PURPLE CLOTH, who worshiped God. As she listened to us, the Lord opened her heart, and she accepted what Paul was saying. 15She and her household were baptized, and she asked us to be her guests. “If you agree that I am a true believer in the Lord,” she said, “come and stay at my home.” And she urged us until we agreed. …” (Acts 16:13 – 15, NLT)
6) Godly Women of the New Testament believed in Christ and Lived the Charity Doctrine Lifestyle and were Saved when they died as that’s exactly which part of their lives (and not how many hours she prayed daily or sang songs or attended church) is PRAISED by BIBLE VERSES below before she was raised back to life in Verses below.
“… 36At Joppa there was a certain disciple named TABITHA, which is translated Dorcas. This woman was FULL OF GOOD WORKS AND CHARITABLE DEEDS which SHE DID. 37But it happened in those days that she became sick and died. … 40But Peter put them all out, and knelt down and prayed. And turning to the body he said, “Tabitha, arise.” And she opened her eyes, and when she saw Peter she sat up. 41Then he gave her his hand and lifted her up; and when he had called the saints and widows, he presented her alive. 42And it became known throughout all Joppa, and many believed on the Lord. …” (Acts 9:36 – 37, 40 – 42, NKJV)
Please notice that Tabitha was Saved when she believed in Christ and did lived this Charity Doctrine Lifestyle except that she was raised back to life again. This itself proved that believing in Christ and after that striving to live in holiness + a Charity Doctrine Lifestyle is enough for Salvation and is PRAISED by HOLY NEW TESTAMENT SCRIPTURE in Verses above.
In other words, the BIBLE ITSELF PRAISED her for her CHARITY WORKS LIFESTYLE ONLY in these Verses instead of saying something like ‘… how many hours she prayed, how many times she fasted or how many times she attended church etc. …’ which are rewardable and profitable for some but without the Charity Doctrine Acts of Love your neighbor in Action (the second Greatest Commandment according to Christ Himself in Mark 12:29 – 31), it doesn’t work and these Charity Doctrine Acts alone (as per Christ’s Answer in the ‘Good Samaritan Parable as the Answer to Eternal Life’, in Luke 10:25 – 37) is enough to fulfill “All Law / Torah” as per Galatians 5:14 too.
Strange situation today is that some women even ask back to their families or husband, “am I a maid/cook for you?” Or equivalent instead of these living women legends of the New Testament who not only provided for their families by working themselves (as per the Rarest Prudent Wife description in Proverbs 31 too) but also “cooked for strangers and others in their CHARITABLE DEEDS from their OWN SUBSTANCE/MONEY”, oh no wonder the Most Blessed Word of God Respects such women who humble themselves and are with Love in Action.
Please consider how humble a very rich business woman (i.e. a “seller of purple”) Blessed Lydia is Described as “Begging” the “Men of God” so that she could provide the Charity Doctrine Sustenance (no wonder she was chosen to be saved for such humility), Verses:
“… 14Now a certain woman named LYDIA heard us. SHE WAS A SELLER OF PURPLE from the city of Thyatira, who worshiped God. THE LORD OPENED HER HEART to HEED the THINGS SPOKEN BY PAUL. 15And when she and her household were baptized, SHE BEGGED US, saying, “If you have judged me to be faithful to the Lord, COME TO MY HOUSE AND STAY.” So she persuaded us. …” (Acts of the Apostles 16:
7) Charity Doctrine Lifestyle Women are to be first to be taken care by the “Church Money” if they’re old (above 60) and are unable to work anymore.
“… 9Do not let a widow under sixty years old be taken into the number, and not unless she has been the wife of one man, 10WELL REPORTED FOR GOOD WORKS: if she has BROUGHT UP CHILDREN, if SHE HAS LODGED STRANGERS, if she has washed the saints’ feet, if she has RELIEVED THE AFFLICTED, IF SHE HAS DILIGENTLY FOLLOWED EVERY GOOD WORK. 11But [c]refuse the younger widows; for when they have begun to grow wanton against Christ, they desire to marry, 12having condemnation because they have CAST OFF THEIR FIRST [D]FAITH. …” (1 Timothy 5:9 – 12, NKJV)
Did you notice that again, the Bible only mentions the Charity Doctrine Works as the condition for even a old Godly Woman before she is taken into number to receive the “Church Money/Providence” Support?
This also proves that “Church Money” should be used for taking care of such widows and others when they’re old and unable to take care of themselves especially if they have lived the “Charity Doctrine Lifestyle” as described in Verses above such as “… 10WELL REPORTED FOR GOOD WORKS: if she has BROUGHT UP CHILDREN, if SHE HAS LODGED STRANGERS, if she has washed the saints’ feet, if she has RELIEVED THE AFFLICTED, IF SHE HAS DILIGENTLY FOLLOWED EVERY GOOD WORK. …”. To not do so may be sin on such Churches if they’re able.
Also, if a Godly “Widow” Woman is expected to live that charitable, how much more those born with a silver spoon and/or “men” ought to live with such a “Charitable Lifestyle” as “God’s Will”, right?
8) Was Junia an apostle?
The NASB is a little-off in translating this verse:
“Greet Andronicus and Junias, my kinsmen and my fellow prisoners, who are outstanding among the apostles, who also were in Christ before me.” (Romans 16:7, NASB)
The more word to word or literal translations read as thus:
“Salute Andronicus and Junia, my kinsmen, and my fellow prisoners, who are of note among the apostles, who also were in Christ before me.” (Romans 16:7, KJV)
“salute Andronicus and Junias, my kindred, and my fellow-captives, who are of note among the apostles, who also have been in Christ before me.” (Romans 16:7, YLT)
Regarding ‘Junia’ (a female), the translated phrases “outstanding among the apostles” (NASB) and “who are of note among the apostles” (KJV) seem to contradict.
We can’t have two corrects as only one of them must be right whilst the other is wrong. I believe that the literal or more ‘word to word’ translations are right agreeing to the meaning that Junia was ‘famous or well known’ (i.e. of ‘well noted’, ‘noted’, ‘known’) among the apostles for her ‘good servitude toward the church’ according to her role (e. g. women always played an important role in providing and helps & as well as in charity works too, which is inclusive of rich women from secular jobs in the past too, verses: Acts 16:14 – 15, Acts 9:36, 1 Timothy 5:9 – 10).
9) What about the No more Male/Female verse below?
“… 26For YOU ARE ALL SONS OF GOD THROUGH FAITH in Christ Jesus. 27For as many of you as were baptized into Christ have put on Christ. 28There is NEITHER JEW NOR GREEK, there is neither slave nor free, there is NEITHER MALE NOR FEMALE; for you are all one in Christ Jesus. 29And if you are Christ’s, then YOU ARE ABRAHAM’S SEED, and HEIRS ACCORDING TO THE PROMISE. …” (Galatians 3:26 – 28, NKJV)
Please notice that the “… No more Jew Vs Gentile …” Verse in Galatians 3:26 – 28 applies in the same way for the “… No more male Vs female …” In the context of inheriting the Kingdom but applies on earth now just like these Verses prove such distinctions between Jew Vs Gentile Believers observations (e.g. Acts 15:29, Acts 21:24 – 25) or male Vs female New Testament Commands (1 Corinthians 14:33 – 37, 1 Timothy 2:12) which all apply now as part of the “… Teach them to observe ALL that I COMMANDED YOU …” part of the ‘Great Commission’ (Matthew 28:20) toward anything written as a ‘Command by His Apostles’ (1 Corinthians 14:37, 2 Peter 3:2) which ought to be taught in ‘every church everywhere’ to “not” go beyond what’s Written in these Verses (1 Corinthians 4:6). Can you see it?
10) First Christianity Quotes – None supporting women pastors nor women spiritual leadership
There was no prohibited for a woman to be a pastor/apostle toward other women. So if Junia was an apostle (Romans 16:7 earlier in point 8), then they could have been women leaders over women and “not” over the church generally nor over men.
Here are some First Christianity Quotes some of which might Support this view while others clearly show the complete absence of women in Spiritual Authority of the Church:
“… “Have we not a right to take about with us a wife that is a sister like the other apostles?” [1 Corinthians 9:5] But the latter, in accordance with their particular ministry, devoted themselves to preaching without any distraction, and took their wives with them not as women with whom they had marriage relations, but as sisters, that they might be their FELLOW-MINISTERS in DEALING with HOUSEWIVES . It was THROUGH THEM that the LORD’S TEACHING penetrated also the WOMEN’S QUARTERS without any scandal being aroused. We also know the directions about WOMEN DEACONS which are given by the noble Paul in his second letter to Timothy…” – Blessed St. Clement of Alexandria, Head of the Cathecathical School At Alexandria, Teacher of Origen (c. 150 AD – c. 215 AD, Stromata Book 3, Chapter VI, Point 53)
Source:
http://www.earlychristianwritings.com/text/clement-stromata-book3-english.html
“… But I do not allow a woman to teach or exercise authority over a man, but to remain quiet. …” – The Blessed and Holy Apostle Paul (1 Timothy 2:12, NASB)
So, a woman can only be a spiritual leader toward other women only as First Christianity’s Context via Blessed St. Clement of Alexandria makes it crisp clear. Women can lead in secular jobs and roles (i. e. non-spiritual roles like Deborah the Judge* in Old Testament times too, Judges 4:4) as God’s Holy Word Prohibits it only toward a “Spiritual Role” (e.g. Priests) as per the Inspired New Testament Verse Quoted.
*Judge is an example of a secular leadership position which was replaced by “kings” later.
“… Even if it is granted to a woman to show the sign of prophecy, she is nevertheless not permitted to speak in an assembly. When Miriam the prophetess spoke, she was leading a choir of women … For [as Paul declares] “I do not permit a woman to teach,” and even less “to tell a man what to do. …”– Blessed Origen of Alexandria, the Great but surprisingly Modest Exegete of the Eastern Church, “Nicknamed: Admantius or Man of Steel”, Tortured and Martyred for Christ (c. 184 AD – c. 253 AD, Origen, Fragmenta ex commentariis in epistulam i ad Corinthios)
“… It is not permitted to a woman to speak in church. Neither may she teach, baptize, offer, nor claim for herself any function proper to a man, least of all the sacerdotal office. …” – Blessed Tertullian, Father of Latin Christianity, Founder of Western Theological Scholarship (c. 155 AD – c. 240 AD, “On the Veiling of Virgins”)
Source:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Women_in_Church_history
Note: St. Clement of Alexandria, Origen and Tertullian all do “not” have any prayers to Virgin Mary nor the Saints in their Writings and so Protestants can consider them.
“… It is neither right nor necessary therefore that women should be teachers, and especially concerning the name of Christ and the redemption of His passion. For you have not been appointed to this, (p. 64) O women, and especially widows, that you should teach, but that you should pray and entreat the Lord God. For He the Lord God, Jesus Christ our Teacher, sent us the Twelve to instruct the People and the Gentiles; and there were with us women disciples, Mary Magdalene and Mary the daughter of James and the other Mary; but He did not send them to instruct the people with us. For if it were required that women should teach, our Master Himself would have commanded these to give instruction with us. But let a widow know that she is the altar of God; and let her sit ever at home, and not stray or run about among the houses of the faithful to receive. For the altar of God never strays or runs about anywhere, but is fixed in one place. …” – The Didascalia Apostolorum (c. 200 AD – c. 250 AD, Chapter XV, [iii. 6]
Source: http://www.earlychristianwritings.com/text/didascalia.html
What is this Didascalia Apostolorum Writing?
“The Didascalia, or the Catholic Teaching of the Twelve Apostles and Holy Disciples of Our Saviour, is a Church Order, composed, according to recent investigations, in the first part, perhaps even the first decades, of the third century, for a community of Christian converts from paganism in the northern part of Syria. The work is modelled on the Didache (cf. vol. I, pp. 29-39) and forms the main source of the first six books of the Apostolic Constitutions.” – J. Quasten writes (Patrology, vol. 2, pp. 147-148)
11) A Reliable Quote by Blessed St. Epiphanius of Salamis who is loved by Protestants as not only because he didn’t have prayers to Saints/Virgin Mary or Icons, he even “opposed” it in First Christianity.
Now, this is what he says regarding this Topic:
Are Female Leaders (e.g. Deaconesses) only allowed to lead women?
Yes, to quote:
“… DEACONESSES are also appointed — ONLY to ASSIST WOMEN for modesty’s sake, if there is a need because of baptism or an inspection of their bodies. (11) Then, after these, come exorcists and translators < from > one language to another, either in readings or in sermons. But finally there are undertakers, who enshroud the bodies of those who fall asleep; and doorkeepers, and the whole good order [of the laity]…” – Blessed St. Epiphanius, Bishop of Salamis and the ‘Hammer of Heretics’, (c. 310 AD – c. 403 AD, ‘De Fide’, “Panarion”, Point 21.10, Page 679)
Source:
and regarding “Church Order”:
“… God’s holy church holds marriage sacred and honors married persons, for “Marriage is honorable and the bed undefiled.” 8 (6) < But > it regards continence as the most admirable, and commends it because it is engaged in the contest and has despised the world, as being still more powerful [than the world]. And the church believes in virginity and accords it the highest honor, because it is a thing of virtue and is fitted with the lightest wing. (7) The church has members who have renounced the world and yet are not contemptuous of those who are still in the world; they rejoice in the very great piety of such persons, as did the apostles who owned nothing themselves, < and yet did not look down on the others* >. (8) And the Savior himself owned no earthly possessions when he came in the flesh, though he was Lord of all — and yet he did not reject the women who assisted his disciples and himself. The Gospel says, “women which followed him from Galilee, ministering unto him of their substance.” 9 4,1 [If no one may own property], what is the point of “Hither to my right hand, ye blessed, for whom my heavenly Father hath prepared the kingdom before the foundation of the world. For I was an hungered, and ye gave me meat; thirsty, and ye gave me drink; I was naked, and ye clothed me?” 10 (2) How could they do these things except with [the fruits of] their honest labor, and their righteously acquired possessions? 4,3 And if these people < who > have made their own renunciation and live like the apostles would mix with the rest [of us], their ways would not seem strange, or foreign to God’s ordinance. (4) And if they renounced wives for the sake of continence their choice would be praiseworthy, provided that they did not call marriage unclean, and provided that they treated the < still > married as comrades, knowing the limitation and the rank of each. 4,5 For God’s ship takes any passenger except a bandit…” – Blessed St. Epiphanius, Bishop of Salamis and the ‘Hammer of Heretics’, (c. 310 AD – c. 403 AD, ‘Apostolics’, “Panarion”, Points 3.5 – 4.5, Pages 118 – 119)
Source:
12) Here are Protestant Reformers who taught the same:
- Blessed Martin Luther
“… Where THERE IS A MAN, THERE NO WOMAN SHOULD TEACH OR HAVE AUTHORITY. Where there is no man, Paul has allowed that they can do this, because it happens by a man’s command. He wants to save the order preserved by the world—that a man be the head of the woman, as 1 Cor. 11:3 tells us. … Then comes the teaching, and PAUL DOES NOT ENTRUST THE MINISTRY OF THE WORD TO HER. He CONSIDERS THIS THE GREATEST THING THAT GOES ON IN THE CHURCH. You must always understand this with the condition that men are present. Paul says this that there may be peace and harmony in the churches when the Word is taught and people pray. There would be a disturbance if some woman wished to argue against the doctrine that is being taught by a man. The method of 1 Cor. 14 has now perished. I could wish it were still in effect, but it causes great strife. Where a man teaches, there is a wellrounded argument against a man. If she wishes to be wise, let her argue with her husband at home. …” – Blessed Martin Luther
Source:
https://www.covenanter.org/reformed/2016/5/25/commentary-on-1-timothy-29-14
https://www.facebook.com/651792783/posts/10160317100097784/
- Blessed John Calvin
Special Case of Deborah and Women Ministry Biblically by Blessed John Calvin
Fact: There is not one man whose writings have influenced Protestant Theology as much as Blessed John Calvin (yes even more in theological depth and accuracy than Blessed Martin Luther even).
In quote below in detail Blessed John Calvin reaffirms the Truth that Pastoral leaderships are only for men (even as Levitical Priesthood was only for sons of Aaron which means Prophetess like Deborah does “not” interfere in those things), to quote his own words as follows regarding:
- i) Blessed John Calvin’s Commentary on 1 Timothy 2:12
“… Verse 12
12But I suffer not a woman to teach. Not that he takes from them the charge of instructing their family, but only excludes them from the office of teaching, which God has committed to men only. On this subject we have explained our views in the exposition of the First Epistle to the Corinthians. (39) If any one bring forward, by way of objection, Deborah (Jude 4:4) and others of the same class, of whom we read that they were at one time appointed by the command of God to govern the people, the answer is easy. Extraordinary acts done by God do not overturn the ordinary rules of government, by which he intended that we should be bound. Accordingly, if women at one time held the office of prophets and teachers, and that too when they were supernaturally called to it by the Spirit of God, He who is above all law might do this; but, being a peculiar case, (40) this is not opposed to the constant and ordinary system of government.
He adds — what is closely allied to the office of teaching — and not to assume authority over the man; for the very reason, why they are forbidden to teach, is, that it is not permitted by their condition. They are subject, and to teach implies the rank of power or authority. Yet it may be thought that there is no great force in this argument; because even prophets and teachers are subject to kings and to other magistrates. I reply, there is no absurdity in the same person commanding and likewise obeying, when viewed in different relations. But this does not apply to the case of woman, who by nature (that is, by the ordinary law of God) is formed to obey; for γυναικοκρατία (the government of women) has always been regarded by all wise persons as a monstrous thing; and, therefore, so to speak, it will be a mingling of heaven and earth, if women usurp the right to teach. Accordingly, he bids them be “quiet,” that is, keep within their own rank. (41) …” – Blessed John Calvin
Source: https://www.studylight.org/commentaries/cal/1-timothy-2.html
- ii) Blessed John Calvin’s Commentary on 1 Corinthians 14:34 – 36
“… Verse 34
It appears that the Church of the Corinthians was infected with this fault too, that the talkativeness of women was allowed a place in the sacred assembly, or rather that the fullest liberty was given to it. Hence he forbids them to speak in public, either for the purpose of teaching or of prophesying. This, however, we must understand as referring to ordinary service, or where there is a Church in a regularly constituted state; for a necessity may occur of such a nature as to require that a woman should speak in public; but Paul has merely in view what is becoming in a duly regulated assembly.
34.Let them be in subjection, as also saith the law. What connection has the object that he has in view with the subjection under which the law places women? “For what is there,” some one will say, “to hinder their being in subjection, and yet at the same time teaching?” I answer, that the office of teaching (877) is a superiority in the Church, and is, consequently, inconsistent with subjection. For how unseemly a thing it were, that one who is under subjection to one of the members, should preside (878) over the entire body! It is therefore an argument from things inconsistent — If the woman is under subjection, she is, consequently, prohibited from authority to teach in public. (879) And unquestionably, (880) wherever even natural propriety has been maintained, women have in all ages been excluded from the public management of affairs. It is the dictate of common sense, that female government is improper and unseemly. Nay more, while originally they had permission given to them at Rome to plead before a court, (881) the effrontery of Caia Afrania (882) led to their being interdicted, even from this. Paul’s reasoning, however, is simple — that authority to teach is not suitable to the station that a woman occupies, because, if she teaches, she presides over all the men, while it becomes her to be under subjection.
Verse 35
35.If they wish to learn any thing. That he may not seem, by this means, to shut out women from opportunities of learning, he desires them, if they are in doubt as to anything, to inquire in private, that they may not stir up any disputation in public. When he says, husbands, he does not prohibit them from consulting the Prophets themselves, if necessary. For all husbands are not competent to give an answer in such a case; but, as he is reasoning here as to external polity, he reckons it sufficient to point out what is unseemly, that the Corinthians may guard against it. In the meantime, it is the part of the prudent reader to consider, that the things of which he here treats are intermediate and indifferent, in which there is nothing unlawful, but what is at variance with propriety and edification.
Verse 36
36Did the word of God come out from you? This is a somewhat sharper reproof, but nothing more than was needful for beating down the haughtiness of the Corinthians. They were, beyond measure, self-complacent. They could not endure that either themselves, or what belonged to them, should be found fault with in anything. He asks, accordingly, whether they are the only Christians in the world; nay, farther, whether they are the first, or are to be the last? “Did the word of God,” says he, “come out from you?” that is, “Did it originate with you?” “Has it ended with you?” that is, “Will it spread no farther?” The design of the admonition is this — that they may not, without having any regard to others, please themselves in their own contrivances or customs. And this is a doctrine of general application; for no Church should be taken up with itself exclusively, to the neglect of others; but on the contrary, they ought all, in their turn, to hold out the right hand to each other, in the way of cherishing mutual fellowship, and accommodating themselves to each other, in so far as a regard to harmony requires. (883)
But here it is asked, whether every Church, according as it has had the precedence of another in the order of time, (884) has it also in its power to bind it to observe its institutions. …” – Blessed John Calvin
Source:
https://www.studylight.org/commentaries/cal/1-corinthians-14.html
- Blessed Charles Spurgeon
“… When we meet together in church-meeting we cannot make laws for the Lord’s kingdom; we dare not attempt it. Such necessary regulations as may be made for carrying out our Lord’s commands, to meet for worship, and to proclaim the gospel, are commendable, because they are acts needful to obedience to his highest laws; but even these minor details are not tolerable if they clearly violate the spirit and mind of Jesus Christ. . . . Law-making in the church was finished in that day when the curse was pronounced on him who should take from or add to the word of God. Christ alone is the legislator of his church—none but he . . . has left to us his Statute-book, sufficient to guide us in every dilemma. … But notice that what this good woman did was very appropriate. Peter’s wife’s mother did not get out of bed and go down the street and deliver an address to an assembled multitude. Women are best when they are quiet. I share the apostle Paul’s feelings when he bade women be silent in the assembly. Yet there is work for holy women, and we read of Peter’s wife’s mother that she arose and ministered to Christ. She did what she could and what she should. She arose and ministered to him. Some people can do nothing that they are allowed to do, but waste their energies in lamenting that they are not called on to do other people’s work. Blessed are they who do what they should do. It is better to be a good housewife, or nurse, or domestic servant, than to be a powerless preacher or a graceless talker. … We greatly err when we dream that only a preacher can minister to the Lord—for Jesus has work of all sorts for all sorts of followers. Paul speaks of women who helped him much, and, assuredly, as there is no idle angel there ought to be no idle Christian. We are not saved for our own sakes, but that we may be of service to the Lord and to his people; let us not miss our calling. …” – Blessed Charles Spurgeon, Prince of Preachers
Source:
https://www.9marks.org/article/charles-spurgeon-womens-ministry-and-female-preachers/
https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=10160317010017784&id=651792783
- Blessed John Wesley
Blessed John Wesley didn’t allow Women Preaching from the Pulpit as sometimes quoted but only during “Divine Move” as the quote in image explains this well.
It is well known that he held to Male leadership despite his mother disobeying it (which didn’t influence his Theological Stand on it) will be a more appropriate sentence describing this. Please note carefully the highlighted phrase in image by Blessed John Wesley’s own words in that unless extraordinary circumstances, it is “unlawful for women to speak in Church” which is taught in both in 1 Corinthians 14:33 – 34 and 1 Timothy 2:12.
Just because he allowed Special circumstances, the Methodist movement took it too far and out of context today claiming that he is the first in the Protestant movement to allow women to become pastors etc. He didn’t ordain her as a pastor and she (Sarah Crosby) preached at an orphanage, not the Church. If anything more he allowed, it’s certainly not based on any Bible Verses. To quote:
“… Methodist founder John Wesley (1703–1791) and Methodist theologian Adam Clarke (1762–1832) both upheld male headship, but allowed that spiritual Christian women could publicly speak in church meetings if they “are under an extraordinary impulse of the Spirit” (Wesley),[38] and that such were to obey that influence, and that “the apostle lays down directions in chap. 11 for regulating her personal appearance when thus employed.” (Clarke)[39] Puritan theologian Matthew Poole (1624–1679) concurred with Wesley, adding, “But setting aside that extraordinary case of a special afflatus, [strong Divine influence] it was, doubtless, unlawful for a woman to speak in the church.”[40]. Matthew Henry (1662–1714) in his commentary, entertains allowing “praying, and uttering hymns inspired” by women, as such “were not teaching”.[41] …”
Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Women_in_Church_history
https://www.facebook.com/651792783/posts/10160317045117784/
Conclusion
Are the ones whom I quoted above “unsaved”? Example: Is “John Calvin unsaved” for strongly opposing “spiritual women leadership”? So we won’t be “unsaved” either for not accepting this Modern Christianity practice too, right? That’s why this is the “Safe Route Scripturally”.
Please allow me to repeat these Verses for the conclusion next:
“… 36At Joppa there was a certain disciple named TABITHA, which is translated Dorcas. This woman was FULL OF GOOD WORKS AND CHARITABLE DEEDS which SHE DID. 37But it happened in those days that she became sick and died. … 40But Peter put them all out, and knelt down and prayed. And turning to the body he said, “Tabitha, arise.” And she opened her eyes, and when she saw Peter she sat up. 41Then he gave her his hand and lifted her up; and when he had called the saints and widows, he presented her alive. 42And it became known throughout all Joppa, and many believed on the Lord. …” (Acts 9:36 – 37, 40 – 42, NKJV)
Please notice that Tabitha was Saved when she believed in Christ and did lived this Charity Doctrine Lifestyle except that she was raised back to life again. This itself proved that believing in Christ and after that striving to live in holiness + a Charity Doctrine Lifestyle is enough for Salvation and is PRAISED by HOLY NEW TESTAMENT SCRIPTURE in Verses above.
Please also notice carefully in this example that the Parable of the 5 wise and 5 foolish virgins also must apply to her lifestyle as described in Verses above especially since she “died saved” which proves that the “Holiness” referring to “Virginity” and “Charity Doctrine Good Works” referring to “Lamp+Oil” which burns with the Love of the Holy Spirit to describe a true Faith must thus apply here too. Example Similar First Christianity and Founding Protestant Reformation Understanding of it with Blessed Martin Luther is discussed in link below:
https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=10160885716652784&substory_index=0&id=651792783
If the strange non-First Christianity teachings of done Denominations were right regarding this Parable where some say you must have accurate 100% right Doctrine etc., Then do you really think that BLESSED TABITHA the CHARITY DOCTRINE WORKER PRAISED greatly by HOLY NEW TESTAMENT SCRIPTURE in Verses above (Acts 9:36 – 37) knew deep theological secrets and all that? Even if she did (for argument’s sake though not written), the BIBLE ITSELF does NOT PRAISE any of that but ONLY HER CHARITY DOCTRINE LIFESTYLE. This is important because it’s the only example we have (as I know of someone who lived considerably some time as a Christian who DIED and we know WAS SAVED by a PARTICULAR CHRISTIAN LIVING LIFESTYLE which is the CHARITY DOCTRINE LIFESTYLE.
If God’s Most Holy Word Affirms it, who can be against it?
Peace to you
Safe Route Scripturally – Christians Denied Prophecy due to Lawlessness including absence of the Charity Doctrine of Giving
Bible Verses:
“… 14Because narrow is the gate and difficult is the way which leads to life, and there are few who find it. … 21“Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who DOES THE WILL OF MY FATHER in heaven. 22MANY will say to Me in that day, ‘Lord, Lord, have we NOT PROPHESIED in Your name, CAST OUT DEMONS in Your name, and DONE MANY WONDERS in Your name?’ 23And then I will declare to them, ‘I never knew you; depart from Me, YOU WHO PRACTICE LAWLESSNESS!’ … 24“Therefore WHOEVER HEARS THESE SAYINGS OF MINE, and DOES THEM, I will liken him to a WISE MAN who BUILT HIS HOUSE ON THE ROCK: …” – Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 7:14, 21 – 23, 24, NKJV)
Comment: The obvious lawless behavior of “no” holiness will be Denied. However, two key Protestant Founders Prophesied also that in the latter times a “Prosperity Gospel” type of “Christianity” risks to be “Denied” too due to failure in not being Faithful by “Giving toward the Charity Doctrine” as one of the Chief reasons which may explain out these Mysterious Verses by Christ Himself which seem to Point that a man’s faithfulness to God is only proved by how we use our money & this can cause us to be rejected for not Fulfilling the Will of God, Verses:
“… 9“And I say to you, make friends for yourselves by UNRIGHTEOUS MAMMON [Money], that WHEN YOU FAIL, they may receive you into an EVERLASTING HOME. 10He who is faithful in what is least is faithful also in much; and he who is unjust in what is least is unjust also in much. 11Therefore IF YOU HAVE NOT BEEN FAITHFUL IN THE UNRIGHTEOUS MAMMON, WHO WILL COMMIT TO YOUR TRUST THE TRUE RICHES? 12And if you have not been faithful in what is another man’s, who will give you what is your own? 13“No servant can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, or else he will be loyal to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and mammon.” …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 16:9 – 13, NKJV)
Now, here are those two Prophecies:
Who Prophesied so? Please consider next
1) Blessed John Wesley
To quote:
“… To Wesley, the most evident threat was the growing wealth of the Methodists. He believed that Christianity has within it the seeds of its own demise. Discipleship makes us more diligent and frugal, and as we become more diligent and frugal, wealth increases.
Wesley considered wealth and the failure to give the most serious threats to the Methodist movement in particular and Christianity in general. In 1789, Wesley noted that the Methodists had all but ignored the third point of his sermon on “The Use of Money,” which had been printed some 30 years earlier. He wrote:
“Of the three rules which are laid down … you may find many that observe the first rule, namely, ‘Gain all you can.’ You may find a few that observe the second, ‘Save all you can.’ But, how many have you found that observe the third rule, ‘Give all you can’? Have you reason to believe that 500 of these are to be found among 50,000 Methodists? And yet nothing can be more plain than that all who observe the first rules without the third will be twofold more the children of hell than ever they were before.”
Wesley’s own commitment to giving was consistent throughout his life. As a student at Oxford, he lived on 28 pounds a year. As his earnings increased to 30 and eventually to 120 pounds annually, he continued to live on the same 28 pounds. He told people that if at his death he had more than 10 pounds in his possession, they could call him a robber.
Wesley’s rules regarding wealth. Wesley wrote in 1786 in “Thoughts upon Methodism”:
“… the Methodists in every place grow diligent and frugal; consequently they increase in goods. Hence, they proportionately increase in pride, in anger, in the desire of the flesh, the desire of the eyes, and the pride of life. So, although the form of religion remains, the spirit is swiftly vanishing away (2 Timothy 3:5).
“… What way, then, (I ask again) can we take, that our money may not sink us to the nethermost hell? There is one way, and there is no other under heaven. If those who ‘gain all they can,’ and ‘save all they can,’ will likewise ‘give all they can;’ then, the more they gain, the more they will grow in grace, and the more treasure they will lay up in heaven.”
Wesley’s sermon “The Use of Money” is a helpful starting point. The rules outlined are integral to his theological, ethical and missional agenda. …’
Source: https://www.resourceumc.org/en/content/john-wesley-on-giving
From another Combined Christian Source highlighting the Crux Part:
“… How then is it possible that Methodism, that is, the religion of the heart, though it flourishes now as a green bay tree, should continue in this state? For the Methodists in every place grow diligent and frugal; consequently they increase in goods. Hence, they proportionably increase in pride, in the desire of the flesh, the desire of the eyes, and the pride of life. So, although the form of religion remains, the spirit is swiftly vanishing away (2 Timothy 3:5). Is there no way to prevent this? this continual declension of pure religion? We ought not to forbid people to be diligent and frugal; we must exhort all Christians, to gain all they can, and to save all they can: this is, in effect, to grow rich! What way then, I ask again, can we take that our money may not sink us to the nethermost hell? There is one way, and there is no other under heaven. If those who gain all they can, and save all they can, will likewise give all they can, then the more they gain, the more they will grow in grace, and the more treasure they will lay up in heaven,”. …” – Blessed John Wesley, Founder of Methodism
Source: https://www.thegospelcoalition.org/blogs/kevin-deyoung/the-pastor-and-the-community-mark-dever/
Emphasis: Please notice how Blessed John Wesley’s Prophecy above regarding those who “Deny God’s Power” but have a “Form of Godliness” within Christianity refers not to denying some Pentecostal gifts but rather that it refers to the LACK of the CHARITY DOCTRINE of GIVING MONEY without which he says they may SINK INTO THE NETHERMOST HELL (Luke 12:31 – 35 is referred to indirectly by John Wesley because Christ Spoke of “Give to Charity” & get “Treasure in Heavens” which are the phrases John Wesley is using here):
“… having a form of godliness but denying its power. And from such people turn away! …” (2 Timothy 3:5, NKJV)
“… So, although the FORM OF RELIGION REMAINS, THE SPIRIT IS SWIFTLY VANISHING AWAY (2 Timothy 3:5). Is there no way to prevent this? this continual declension of pure in effect, to grow rich! What way then, I ask again, can we take that OUR MONEY may NOT SINK US to the NETHERMOST HELL? There is one way, and there is no other under heaven. If those who gain all they can, and save all they can, will likewise GIVE ALL THEY CAN, then the more they gain, the more they will GROW IN GRACE …” – Blessed John Wesley, Founder of Methodism
2) Blessed Martin Luther
To quote:
“… The Lord is speaking now about Christendom and compares it to ten virgins. Five are wise, five foolish. Here He calls all Christians “virgins.” The foolish virgins are those Christians who give the appearance and impression of being godly. They want to be good evangelicals and are able to say much about these things. They praise the Word and say: “Yes, it is a splendid thing. This is what it means. It cannot possibly be otherwise according to the Scripture, etc.” Paul speaks of these people in 1 Cor. 4:20: “The kingdom of God is not in speech, but in power.” It consists not in speech, but in life; not in words, but in works. Although they are able to say much about many things, they are in reality unwise virgins who only have the lamps or the vessel, that is, the external equipment, and they behave according to their nature, as Matthew writes (7:22), saying: “Lord, Lord!” The mouth is there, but the heart is far away (Matt. 15:8). The oil is not in the lamp, that is, faith is not in the heart. They give it no thought. Indeed, they know it not and imagine that their lamps are ready. Their nature is that they gladly hear the preaching about faith, and if they have heard the Word, they invent and fabricate for themselves a thought, a delusion in the heart which they consider to be OIL, and yet they remain the same as before in their behavior. Following their old ways, they are just as WRATHFUL as before, just as COVETOUS, just as UNMERCIFUL TOWARD THE POOR, just as DISCOURTEOUS, etc. This faith is a manmade thing. …” – The First Champion of the Protestant Faith, Blessed Martin Luther’s Sermon which was translated in 2013 by the Rev. Paul A. Rydecki, On Faith and Good Works, Preached in Erfurt at St. Michaeliskirche on the Day of the 11,000 Virgins (October 21st), 1522
Source: http://www.godwithuslc.org/luther-sermon-for-trinity-27/
Comment: Please note carefully that those who don’t have the “oil” have a man-made faith which “loves money/prosperity” (i.e. Covetous, Could it be the ‘Prosperity Gospel’?) and are “unmerciful toward the poor” (i.e. could it be a Christianity which does “not” teach the “Charity Doctrine”?) according to Martin Luther himself in his own words above.
No point in listening to the current Christians (including me) but rather these two men of God quoted above. So if they’re quoting a similar prophecy in essence toward Protestantism in general, I think the ‘Safe Route Scripturally’ would be to take heed & Preach likewise as I don’t think any sane Protestant would call either of them a false prophet nor unsaved. Their Prophecy agrees with so many Bible Verses quoted earlier.
Conclusion – First Christianity
This First Christianity Champion Teaches likewise regarding the usage of “unrighteous mammon” (“money”) into “alms/Charity or sharing/equivalent”; yes, who are the “Children of Abraham”?
“… 8. In fine, He calls those the CHILDREN OF ABRAHAM whom He sees to be LABORIOUS IN AIDING and NOURISHING THE POOR. For when Zacchæus said, “Behold, the half of my goods I give to the poor; and if I have done any wrong to any man, I restore fourfold,” JESUS answered and said, “That salvation has this day come to this house, for that he also is a son of Abraham.” [3545, Luke 19:8, 9.] For if Abraham believed in God, and it was counted unto him for righteousness, certainly he who gives alms according to God’s precept believes in God, and he who has the truth of faith maintains the fear of God; moreover, he who maintains the fear of God CONSIDERS GOD IN SHOWING MERCY TO THE POOR. For he labours thus because he believes — because he knows that what is foretold by God’s word is true, and that the Holy Scripture cannot lie — that unfruitful trees, that is, unproductive men, are cut off and cast into the fire, but that the MERCIFUL ARE CALLED INTO THE KINGDOM. He also, in another place, calls laborious and fruitful men faithful; but He denies faith to unfruitful and barren ones, saying, “If ye have NOT BEEN FAITHFUL in the UNRIGHTEOUS MAMMON, who will commit to you that which is true? And if ye have not been faithful in that which is another man’s, who shall give you that which is your own?” [3546, Luke 16:11, 12] …” – Blessed St. Cyprian, Bishop of Carthage, a pre-eminent Latin writer of Western Christianity until Jerome and Augustine, Martyr for Christ (c. 200 AD – c. 258 AD, Point 8, Treatise viii. On Works and Alms)
Source: https://biblehub.com/library/cyprian/the_treatises_of_cyprian/treatise_viii_on_works_and.htm
Note for Protestants (like me): St. Cyprian does “not” have any Prayers to Virgin Mary nor to the saints or equivalent in his writings.
Peace to you
Charity Doctrine begins at Home – Honoring Parents is Best in Action beyond Words
Let’s see some Bible Verses:
0) Honour your Father and Mother is one of the 10 Commandments
“… Honor your father and your mother, that your days may be long upon the land which the LORD your God is giving you. …” (Exodus 20:12, NKJV)
Real Story: What if a son dies young, does it mean that he didn’t honour their parents? Also what if a mother dies say at 60 (which is not long life either), does it mean she didn’t honour her parents according to this Verse? I am not sure but perhaps its meaning is “not” as easy as we think it is as there could be circumstances and other factors too. Hence, we don’t Judge but remain curious.
1) Christ Teaches the 10 Commandment to Honour your Father and Mother not in your words or listening to obeying “anything” they say (even if they’re wrong, please see point 2 later below) but rather by the CHARITY DOCTRINE ACT of GIVING MONEY for PARENT’S NEEDS (not luxury or Vanity) which is required even BEFORE GIVING TO GOD/CHURCH/MINISTRY.
Yes, Christ Clearly Taught that “Giving to God” (or “Corban” as a “Gift to God”) has no value if that same person never “Gave to their parents first”.
“… [9He said to them,] “All too well you [e]REJECT THE COMMANDMENT OF GOD, THAT YOU MAY KEEP YOUR TRADITION. 10For Moses said, ‘HONOR YOUR FATHER AND YOUR MOTHER’ (Exodus 20:12); and, ‘He who curses father or mother, let him be put to death.’ 11But you say, ‘If a man says to his father or mother, “Whatever profit you might have received from me is CORBAN”—’ (THAT IS, A GIFT TO GOD), 12then you NO LONGER LET HIM DO ANYTHING FOR HIS FATHER OR HIS MOTHER, 13MAKING THE WORD OF GOD OF NO EFFECT THROUGH YOUR TRADITION which you have handed down. And many such things you do.” …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 7:9 – 13, NKJV)
So before Giving any money to “Church/Ministry/Poor” please make sure you have given for “Parent’s needs first” as per the Command in these Verses by CHRIST HIMSELF.
Real Story: A son (whom I know) once gave back his parents RM 280 000 through his house sale profit and told the father clearly that this is only for THEIR NEEDS and NOT for the other children which pro-rates to RM 800 per month (on top of the Parent’s existing pension of another RM 800+) for 280000/800 = 350 months which is about 29.1 years when the parents age was about 58 and 63 respectively. Actually the son planned to give all RM 700000 – RM 800000 in profits to the parents in exchange for the family house which was RM 350k to RM 400k but it failed to fetch that price. The mom passed away at 60. The problem is the father didn’t keep it and dumped some money into a business which failed and some other money into buying a house for the youngest son who never worked for years (irresponsible due to part drug + depression habits but pampered by parents instead of disciplining him, hiding his sins to cover family pride). Now the money is all lost. What I see is that the son who gave the money has honoured the parents as per Verses above as Christ Commanded and need not give more either. In comparison, the son who gave the parents (2nd son), used only about 9% of the parents life savings for his studies (About RM 18000 only) while the other two sons used up 91% in comparison where each finished their private educations amounting easily in fees alone RM 100000 each. So 18000/200000 x 100% = 9%. This is because the 2nd son got scholarships to study while the other two sons were failing their subjects and changed a few colleges/universities extending their study time from 3 years to 6 years even wasting the parent’s money in the process. So please honour your parents by reducing your study costs or if cannot study it is okay to work instead of irresponsible studying habits of failing, incuring costs and never repaying the parents back in that much money either. Parents call it love when they do such unfairness and irresponsible giving to their kids but it’s actually damages them in the long run and only a parent will love their child even if the child is a “devil” who “makes them suffer” instead of “helping them”.
2) Honouring Parents is not by obeying anything they say but by obeying them if what they say is “in the Lord”.
Parents being humans are going to make mistakes too especially financially and so we don’t need to obey all their desire such as “luxury or say buying a house for a sibling who refuses to work etc.”. That’s a way to “Obey your parents IN THE LORD” (Please notice the phrase “IN THE LORD” carefully in verse below):
“… 1Children, OBEY YOUR PARENTS IN THE LORD, for this is right. 2“Honor your father and mother,” which is the first commandment with promise: 3“that it may be well with you and you may live long on the earth.” …” (Ephesians 6:1 – 3, NKJV)
3) God’s Word is Fair. It doesn’t side parents only but also states that Parents should “not provoke their children to anger” especially by doing Vanity and Prosperity Pursuits or other such unwise financial decisions or others.
“… 4And you, FATHERS, DO NOT PROVOKE YOUR CHILDREN TO WRATH, but bring them up in the training and admonition of the Lord. …” (Ephesians 6:4, NKJV)
Real Story: Continuing from the story above, despite all these financial blunders, the 2nd son advised the father to ask the first son to sell off the house on loan, return to the old house together with the irresponsible 3rd son so that they need not suffer in isolation anymore. The 2nd son also offered not to speak of their faults anymore if they return and will buy the food or wash their clothes etc. at his financial expense. The 2nd son did “not” want to send any money directly anymore ever since the track history shows how the father is not stable to handle that which is proven by how he made RM 280000 vanish in about 2 – 3 years. So the 2nd son (who is not high earning either) still offered to provide ONLY FOR THE NEEDS (e.g. food, clothing etc.) of the Father and the 3rd son if they move in. Please notice that the 2nd son is not asking any money from the father nor the other sons to do this but depends only on God’s Provision via work only. So far they refused because of ‘pride’ and angry that this son is pointing out their mistakes. The only rule a parent should make is a child must buy their own house if they want to marry and if not, there is no such need or Bible Verse and thus they must learn to live together as a family. The 2nd son has his history of falling but he didn’t cause any financial damage to his family. In fact, his house sale still caused him loss but returned with ample profits the RM 280000 to his parents. Unlike the prodigal son example who sinned by destroying his parent’s wealth, the 2nd son destroyed only his own wealth in getting fooled in ‘various money scams’. In other words, I see that the 2nd son still walks the extra mile in this where he not only offers to help in “needs” (but only if they stay with him as they are irresponsible with money as proven), but he also decides to forgive and forget the past by not talking about it if they stay with him which I see as still honouring the parent in action. If the parent and the brother rejects this, he is clean from any sin whatsoever and their decision is upon them as we cannot force anyone to accept even if it is a good thing.
Conclusion
“… 35For I have come to ‘SET[J] A MAN AGAINST HIS FATHER, a daughter against her mother, and a daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law’; 36and ‘a MAN’S ENEMIES WILL be THOSE OF HIS OWN HOUSEHOLD.’ …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 10:35 – 36, NKJV)
The Real Story above is an example how a man’s enemies can be from his own household where such unwise financial decisions can rob a person’s focus from the Gospel and force them to repair financial damages due to the action of others.
Please take note that a son ought not even lay up for his parents but only needs to use what his parents give him as inheritance to take care of them as per the “New Testament Verse” below as “God’s Will” in this (quoted in Principle, so it’s true for both ministry and family context):
“… Now for the third time I am ready to come to you. And I will not be burdensome to you; for I do not seek yours, but you. For the CHILDREN OUGHT NOT TO LAY UP FOR THE PARENTS, BUT THE PARENTS FOR THE CHILDREN. …” (2 Corinthians 12:14, NKJV)
This is how God Blessed Abraham too where despite begin super rich God only gave Abraham one promised child. Here we have too many children and little providence by our own will. That’s why none can ask back God anything as He Might Thunder back and ask you “.. did I ask you to have children? … When did I say that to you? … How come you had more Children than you can provide for and I only gave Abraham a child after he was super rich & why not you follow that? …” Or equivalent.
So if a son fulfils the “Corban” part as Christ Mentioned earlier in point 1 toward “his parents” despite it “not” being a mandatory requirement as per 2 Corinthians 12:14 above, then I don’t see a Judgment of God against him. Please quote a “Bible Verse” if you say something is missing here instead of worldly viewpoints which actually creates such a financial mess in families in the world today due to not obeying Holy Scripture as it is Written.
In fact, God only calls a man who can provide properly before having children as a “good man” in Verses below (as Abraham’s case and the subsequent Jewish Traditions prove), as that’s why they pass on wealth well to the next generation:
“… A GOOD MAN leaves an INHERITANCE to his CHILDREN’S CHILDREN, …” (Proverbs 13:22, NKJV)
So based on these “Bible Verses”, are we “good parents”?
Please don’t be flattered by lies and human half-truths which actually creates a the sufferings due to not obeying these CHARITY DOCTRINE verses even from home itself and let’s instead be more concerned if “God’s Word” (in a “Written Word” and not an imaginary opinion with no Verses) approves us or not because:
“… [And He said to them], “You are those who justify yourselves before men, but God knows your hearts. For WHAT IS HIGHLY ESTEEMED AMONG MEN is an ABOMINATION IN THE SIGHT OF GOD. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 16:15, NKJV)
“… but the WORRIES OF THE WORLD, and the DECEITFULNESS OF RICHES, and the DESIRES FOR OTHER THINGS enter in and choke the word, and it becomes UNFRUITFUL. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ, God in Flesh (Mark 4:19, NASB)
We need to ask these questions Daily (instead of the “love of money” or “covetous lifestyle” which teaches to focus on ‘making money to live in Prosperity’):
1) Which Bible Verse are we fulfilling if we take this decision?
2) What have we done in action for our parents?
3) What have we done for the Gospel Work/Commands?
4) What have we done for the Poor/Orphans?
5) What have we done for our Country?
Better to Speak the Truth than to Flatter with lies:
“… 1Help,[b] Lord, for the godly man ceases! For the faithful disappear from among the sons of men. 2They speak idly everyone with his neighbor; WITH FLATTERING LIPS and [c]a DOUBLE HEART THEY SPEAK. …” (Psalm 12:1 – 2, NKJV)
Peace to you
Real Love – Real Christianity – Safe Route Scripturally
The Quote in image is true regardless of the fact that I’m “not” a Roman Catholic and the quote is by a Roman Catholic Archbishop.
Why? Christ Himself Asked as follows:
“… 32“But if you love those who love you, what credit is that to you? For even sinners love those who love them. …” (Luke 6:32, NKJV)
In full, please consider:
“… 38“YOU HAVE HEARD THAT IT WAS SAID, ‘An EYE FOR AN EYE and a tooth for a tooth.’ [Deuteronomy 19:19 – 21]. 39But I TELL YOU NOT TO RESIST AN EVIL PERSON. But whoever slaps you on your right cheek, turn the other to him also. 40If anyone wants to sue you and TAKE AWAY YOUR TUNIC, LET HIM HAVE YOUR CLOAK ALSO. 41And whoever compels you to go one mile, go with him two. 42GIVE to him who asks you, and from him WHO WANTS TO BORROW from you DO NOT TURN AWAY. 43“You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ 44[o]But I SAY TO YOU, LOVE YOUR ENEMIES, … 47And if you greet your [p]brethren only, WHAT DO YOU DO MORE THAN OTHERS? …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 5:38 – 44, 47, NKJV)
or in Luke:
“… 27“But I say to you who hear: LOVE YOUR ENEMIES, DO GOOD to those who hate you, 28bless those who curse you, and pray for those PRAY FOR THOSE WHO SPITEFULLY USE YOU. 29To him who strikes you on the one cheek, offer the other also. And from him who takes away your cloak, do not withhold your tunic either. 30GIVE to everyone who asks of you. And from him who takes away your goods DO NOT ASK THEM BACK. 31And just as you want men to do to you, you also do to them likewise. 32“But if you love those who love you, what credit is that to you? For even sinners love those who love them. 33And if you do good to those who do good to you, what credit is that to you? For even sinners do the same. 34And if YOU LEND to those from whom you HOPE TO RECEIVE BACK, what credit is that to you? For even sinners lend to sinners to receive as much back. 35But LOVE YOUR ENEMIES, DO GOOD, AND LEND, [h]HOPING FOR NOTHING IN RETURN; and YOUR REWARD WILL BE GREAT, and YOU WILL BE SONS OF THE MOST HIGH. For He is kind to the unthankful and evil. 36Therefore be merciful, just as your Father also is merciful. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 6:27 – 36, NKJV)
First Christianity Captured it in their Official Writings too, example:
“… “This is the way of life: first, thou shalt love the God who made thee, secondly, thy neighbor as thyself: and all things whatsoever thou wouldest not should happen to thee, do not thou to another. The teaching of these words is this: Bless those who curse you, and pray for your enemies, and fast on behalf of those who persecute you: for what thanks will be due to you, if ye love only those who love you? Do not the Gentiles also do the same? But love ye those who hate you, and ye shall not have an enemy.” …”~ The Didache, also known as The Teachings of the 12 Apostles, is an early Christian document written between 80AD – 90AD.
Source for Quotes:
https://enemylove.com/40-early-church-quotes-on-violence-enemy-love-patriotism/
Conclusion
Please notice carefully that in Verse above Christ Describes the “… SONS OF YOUR FATHER in heaven …” refers only to those who have Practiced “… 38“You have heard that it was said, ‘An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth.’ [Deuteronomy 19:21 above] 39BUT I TELL YOU NOT to RESIST an EVIL PERSON. …” and “… 43“You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall love your neighbor and HATE YOUR ENEMY.’ 44[o]BUT I SAY TO YOU, LOVE YOUR ENEMIES, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you …” which certainly disqualifies a ‘Executing Judgment of Earth type of Christianity’, right?
“… IF YOU LOVE ME, KEEP [Obey] MY COMMANDMENTS. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (John 14:15, NKJV)
Peace to you
Safe Route Scripturally – Sola Scriptura Doctrines only based on What is Written
Please consider these Bible Verses:
Expose evil means let people know about it in words but with “no” further action in Judgment.
“… 11And have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather [c]EXPOSE THEM. …” (Ephesians 5:11, NKJV)
What is “Evil”? Any Action/Words that is contrary to “What is Written” in Bible Verses.
Many people are very good in exposing the “Political Evils” by saying things like the leaders are “substandard etc.” but if it’s their own son who behaves like that or produces no quality, are they able to judge in words likewise?
1) Idolater = Those who Pray with Literal Idols or Equivalent
Idolater Mystery – Are we an “Idolater”?
“… 3But fornication and all uncleanness or COVETOUSNESS, let it not even be named among you, as is fitting for saints; 4neither filthiness, nor foolish talking, nor coarse jesting, which are not fitting, but rather giving of thanks. 5For [a]this you know, that no fornicator, unclean person, NOR COVETOUS MAN, WHO IS AN IDOLATER, has ANY INHERITANCE IN THE KINGDOM of CHRIST AND GOD. 6Let NO ONE DECEIVE YOU WITH EMPTY WORDS, for because of these things the wrath of God comes upon the sons of disobedience. 7Therefore do not be partakers with them. …” (Ephesians 5:3 – 7, NKJV)
Some Christians don’t realize that the New Testament Definition of an “Idolater” is as follows:
Worship using literal “Idols” even if it is an Idol of Christ is wrong
“… You shall NOT MAKE IDOLS for yourselves; NEITHER A CARVED IMAGE NOR A SACRED PILLAR shall you rear up for yourselves; nor shall you set up an engraved stone in your land, to bow down to it; for I am the LORD your God. …” (Leviticus 26:1, NKJV)
This Command applies in the New Testament:
“… 14Therefore, my beloved, FLEE FROM IDOLATRY. 15I speak as to wise men; judge for yourselves what I say. …” (1 Corinthians 10:14 – 15, NKJV)
“… Little children, KEEP YOURSELVES FROM IDOLS. Amen. …” (1 John 5:21, NKJV)
Long before Blessed Martin Luther, this First Christianity Saint proves that NO IMAGE OF CHRIST also is CAN BE USED FOR PRAYER (meaning that the Command against Idolatry is unbiased in Holy Scripture & is Fair to everyone), to quote:
“… 9. Moreover, I have heard that certain persons have this grievance against me: When I accompanied you to the holy place called Bethel, there to join you in celebrating the Collect, after the use of the Church, I came to a villa called Anablatha and, as I was passing, saw a lamp burning there. Asking what place it was, and learning it to be a church, I went in to pray, and found there a curtain hanging on the doors of the SAID CHURCH, dyed and embroidered. IT BORE AN IMAGE EITHER OF CHRIST OR OF ONE OF THE SAINTS; I do not rightly remember whose the image was. Seeing this, and being loth that AN IMAGE OF A MAN SHOULD BE HUNG UP IN CHRIST’S CHURCH CONTRARY to the TEACHING OF THE SCRIPTURES, I TORE IT ASUNDER AND ADVISED the custodians of the place to use it as a WINDING SHEET FOR SOME POOR PERSON. They, however, murmured, and said that if I made up my mind to tear it, it was only fair that I should give them another curtain in its place. As soon as I heard this, I promised that I would give one, and said that I would send it at once. …” – Blessed St. Epiphanius, Bishop of Salamis and the ‘Hammer of Heretics’, (c. 310 AD – c. 403 AD, Letter LI in Jerome’s letters gives Jerome’s Latin translation, made at Epiphanius’ request, of his letter, originally in Greek from c. 394, “From Epiphanius, Bishop of Salamis, in Cyprus, to John, Bishop of Jerusalem”)
Source: https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Epiphanius_of_Salamis
Note: This is the same saint I have been quoting in other context/doctrine too in previous posts and so Protestants can see that he is a faithful witness to First Christianity as he didn’t change into the Idol/Image of Christ/Saint worship which already infiltrated Jerusalem in a Church even by that time as evidenced by quote above.
2) Idolater = Prosperity Pursuit type of Doctrine
A “Coveteous” man = “Idolater”. A “Coveteous man” refers to those who “Prosperity / Luxury / Money”.
“… Therefore put to death your members which are on the earth: fornication, uncleanness, passion, evil desire, and COVETOUSNESS, WHICH IS IDOLATRY. …” (Colossians 3:5, NKJV)
“… 5For [a]this you know, that no fornicator, unclean person, NOR COVETOUS MAN, WHO IS AN IDOLATER, has ANY INHERITANCE IN THE KINGDOM of CHRIST AND GOD. 6Let NO ONE DECEIVE YOU WITH EMPTY WORDS, …” (Ephesians 5:5 – 6, NKJV)
Here’s a Verse proving the “Definition of a Coveteous Man” in the Context of those who “Prosperity / Luxury / Money” as one of the “Sins of Sodom”:
“… Look, this was the iniquity of your sister SODOM: She and her daughter had PRIDE, FULLNESS OF FOOD, and ABUNDANCE OF IDLENESS; NEITHER did she strengthen the hand of the POOR and NEEDY. …” (Ezekiel 16:49, NKJV)
3) Idolater = Those who are “Stubborn” and “Reject God’s Written Words”
“… 22So Samuel said:
“Has the Lord as great delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices,
As in OBEYING THE VOICE OF THE LORD?
Behold, TO OBEY IS BETTER THAN SACRIFICE,
And to heed than the fat of rams.
23For REBELLION IS AS THE SIN OF [d]WITCHCRAFT,
And STUBBORNNESS IS AS INIQUITY AND IDOLATRY.
Because you have REJECTED THE WORD OF THE LORD,
He also has REJECTED YOU FROM BEING KING.”
24Then Saul said to Samuel, “I have sinned, for I have transgressed the commandment of the Lord and your words, because I feared the people and obeyed their voice. 25Now therefore, please pardon my sin, and return with me, that I may worship the Lord.” 26But Samuel said to Saul, “I will not return with you, for you have rejected the word of the Lord, and the Lord has rejected you from being king over Israel.” …” (1 Samuel 15:22 – 26, NKJV)
Note: King Saul’s Repentance statement didn’t work as the forfeit from being king applied. So let God Decide but it shows not to simply reject “Written New Testament Verses”. I say “Written” because just like verses above which are Written, we can only be 100% sure that the “Written” Verses are from God. Examples:
- i) Church Order
“… … 34Women f should REMAIN SILENT IN THE CHURCHES. They are NOT ALLOWED TO SPEAK, but must be in submission, as the law says. 35If they want to inquire about something, they should ask their own husbands at home; for it is DISGRACEFUL FOR A WOMAN to SPEAK IN THE CHURCH. 36Or did the word of God originate with you? Or are you the only people it has reached? 37If anyone thinks they are a PROPHET or otherwise GIFTED BY THE SPIRIT, let them ACKNOWLEDGE that what I am WRITING to you is the LORD’S COMMAND. 38But IF ANYONE IGNORES THIS, THEY WILL THEMSELVES BE IGNORED …” (1 Corinthians 14:34 – 38, NIV)
- ii) Spiritual Leadership Order
“… 9in like manner also, that the women adorn themselves in modest apparel, with propriety and [e]moderation, not with braided hair or gold or pearls or costly clothing, 10but, which is proper for women professing godliness, WITH GOOD WORKS. 11Let a woman learn in silence with all submission. 12And I DO NOT permit A WOMAN to TEACH OR TO HAVE AUTHORITY OVER A MAN, but to be in silence. …” (1 Timothy 2:9 – 12, NKJV)
iii) What is “Written” in “New Testament Scripture” Applies to All Churches
“… … 1 IMITATE ME, just as I also IMITATE CHRIST. 2Now I PRAISE YOU, brethren, that you remember me in all things and KEEP THE TRADITIONS just as I delivered them to you. … 16But if anyone seems to be CONTENTIOUS, we have NO SUCH CUSTOM, NOR DO THE CHURCHES OF GOD. … ” (1 Corinthians 11:1 – 2, 11:16, NKJV)
- iv) Lifestyle Order
“… 10For even when we were with you, we COMMANDED you this: If ANYONE WILL NOT WORK, NEITHER SHALL HE EAT. …” (2 Thessalonians 3:10)
- v) What if someone does it differently?
We don’t judge them nor approve them but let God Decide. However, in light of all these Verses it risks being an “idolatry” or “witchcraft” as per the “stubborness” and “rebellion” against His Word/Command, right? So why the Risk? We write it here so we are clear if on Judgment Day God Asks why you didn’t warn them. If God Says He Taught them differently, we are not Condemned either because following these “Written Commands/Traditions” is still a way to “Follow/Imitate CHRIST” as per Verses below which is PRAISED:
“… 1 IMITATE ME, just as I also IMITATE CHRIST. 2Now I PRAISE YOU, brethren, that you remember me in all things and KEEP THE TRADITIONS just as I delivered them to you. … 16But if anyone seems to be CONTENTIOUS, we have NO SUCH CUSTOM, NOR DO the CHURCHES OF GOD. … ” (1 Corinthians 11:1 – 2, 11:16, NKJV)
“… 13But as for you, brethren, DO NOT GROW WEARY in DOING GOOD. 14And if anyone does NOT OBEY OUR WORD IN THIS [D]EPISTLE, note that person and do NOT KEEP COMPANY with him, that he may be ashamed. …” (2 Thessalonians 3:13 – 14)
Conclusion
The Verse below assures that to be able to “Keep/Obey” these “Written Traditions” (13HOLD FAST The PATTERN OF SOUND WORDS) + Live a life of “Labor of Love” (in faith and love) is a sign that the “Holy Spirit” is within us:
“… 13HOLD FAST The PATTERN OF SOUND WORDS which you have heard from me, in faith and love which are in Christ Jesus. 14That good thing which was committed to you, KEEP BY THE HOLY SPIRIT who dwells in us. …” (2 Timothy 1:13 – 14, NKJV)
So, do we fit either of the definitions of an “idolater” put forth in these Verses?
Are we really living the “New Testament Faith” as “it is Written” and not going “beyond what is Written” which is the Command to “All Churches everywhere” as per Verses below:
“… that you may learn in us NOT TO THINK BEYOND WHAT IS WRITTEN, that none of you may be [c]puffed up on behalf of one against the other. … 14I do not write these things to shame you, but as my beloved children I warn you. 15For though you might have ten thousand instructors in Christ, yet you do not have many fathers; for in Christ Jesus I have begotten you through the gospel. 16Therefore I URGE YOU, IMITATE ME. 17For this reason I have sent Timothy to you, who is my beloved and faithful son in the Lord, who will remind you of my ways in Christ, as I TEACH EVERYWHERE IN EVERY CHURCH. …” (1 Corinthians 4:4, 14 – 17, NKJV)
Maybe only then we are fulfilling the Great Commission’s “… 20TEACHING THEM TO OBSERVE ALL THINGS THAT I HAVE COMMANDED YOU …”
“… 18And Jesus came and spoke to them, saying, “All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. 19Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20TEACHING THEM TO OBSERVE ALL THINGS THAT I HAVE COMMANDED YOU; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” Amen. …” (Matthew 28:18 – 20, NKJV)
Only Commands through the Apostles Apply:
“… that you may be mindful of the words which were spoken before by the holy prophets, and of the COMMANDMENT of us, the APOSTLES OF THE LORD and SAVIOR, …” (2 Peter 3:2, NKJV)
That’s why we call this the Safe Route Scripturally.
Peace to you
Overcomers Mystery – Overcome Evil with Good – Safe Route Scripturally
Worldly Logic (because “no” New Testament Bible Verse Says so): ‘… You cannot help the evil or do good to them. If so, you are helping Satan and it means you’re not stopping their evil and so you’re evil …’
“… 11Blessed [Makarioi] are you WHEN THEY REVILE AND PERSECUTE YOU, and say ALL KINDS OF EVIL AGAINST YOU FALSELY FOR MY SAKE. 12Rejoice [chairete] and be exceedingly glad, for great is your reward in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you. …” (Matthew 5:11 – 12, NKJV)
Bible Truths, please consider below:
1) True Judgment is “not” kill your evil enemies to extinguish evil
What is it then?
The only Judgment allowed in the New Testament is ‘Warn them of sin’ but don’t judge them for it but rather execute “True Judgment” which is to “Forgive by showing MERCY and COMPASSION” instead, please allow me to repeat:
“… Thus speaketh the LORD of hosts, saying, Execute TRUE JUDGMENT, and SHEW MERCY AND COMPASSIONS every man to his brother: …” (Zechariah 7:9, KJV)
Note: “Mercy” is for those who are “wrong doctrinally or in sin”.
2) Fruits of the Spirit in Action
Please don’t be deceived. Also “Judgment” is “not” one of the “Fruits of the Spirit” but the Acts of the Charity Doctrine are such as it encompasses “Goodness, love, long-suffering, gentleness and Kindness”.
“… 22But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23[g]gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no law. …” (Galatians 5:22 – 23, NKJV)
Conclusion – Overcomers of Evil
What do we “overcome” to get? Heavenly “Blessing” to “inherit” the Kingdom as “Sons” with “Great Rewards” as per Verses below (quoted throughout this section):
“… Do not repay evil with evil or insult with insult. On the contrary, REPAY EVIL WITH BLESSING, because to this you were called so that you may INHERIT A BLESSING. …” (1 Peter 3:9, NIV)
Note: please notice the phrase “… REPAY EVIL WITH BLESSING …” Which means we are supposed to “bless” those who are “evil” with a “blessing” (Good things be it knowledge sharing or finance gift etc , right?) Yes, as CHRIST HIMSELF COMMANDS toward HIS SONS to DO SO in “Giving Money (or borrow) to them even” in Verses below:
“… 27“But I say to you who hear: LOVE YOUR ENEMIES, DO GOOD to those who hate you, 28bless those who curse you, and pray for those PRAY FOR THOSE WHO SPITEFULLY USE YOU. 29To him who strikes you on the one cheek, offer the other also. And from him who takes away your cloak, do not withhold your tunic either. 30GIVE to everyone who asks of you. And from him who takes away your goods DO NOT ASK THEM BACK. 31And just as you want men to do to you, you also do to them likewise. 32“But if you love those who love you, what credit is that to you? For even sinners love those who love them. 33And if you do good to those who do good to you, what credit is that to you? For even sinners do the same. 34And if YOU LEND to those from whom you HOPE TO RECEIVE BACK, what credit is that to you? For even sinners lend to sinners to receive as much back. 35But LOVE YOUR ENEMIES, DO GOOD, AND LEND, [h]HOPING FOR NOTHING IN RETURN; and YOUR REWARD WILL BE GREAT, and YOU WILL BE SONS OF THE MOST HIGH. For He is kind to the unthankful and evil. 36Therefore be merciful, just as your Father also is merciful. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 6:27 – 36, NKJV)
I repeat, please notice carefully that in Verse above Christ Describes the “… SONS OF YOUR FATHER in heaven …” refers only to those who have Practiced “… 38“You have heard that it was said, ‘An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth.’ [Deuteronomy 19:21 above] 39BUT I TELL YOU NOT to RESIST an EVIL PERSON. …” and “… 43“You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall love your neighbor and HATE YOUR ENEMY.’ 44[o]BUT I SAY TO YOU, LOVE YOUR ENEMIES, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you …” which certainly disqualifies a ‘Executing Judgment of Earth type of Christianity’, right?
“… IF YOU LOVE ME, KEEP [Obey] MY COMMANDMENTS. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (John 14:15, NKJV)
Only “Overcomers” Obey and Do “His Commands” especially His Command to Love (which are the “Greatest” as per Christ’s Own Words in Mark 12:29 – 31) and thereby gain the Right to “Inherit” beyond what “humans can never imagine” as per Verses below:
“… But as it is written: “EYE HAS NOT SEEN, NOR EAR HEARD, NOR HAVE ENTERED INTO THE HEART of man The THINGS which GOD HAS PREPARED for THOSE WHO LOVE HIM.” ….” (1 Corinthians 2:9, NKJV)
So, please don’t miss the Greatest “Things” and “Rewards” for “not” obeying His Greatest Commands as “not” all reward is same among believers even as Christ Himself Says in Verses below (as there are “least” Vs “great” in His Kingdom):
“… 19Whoever therefore breaks one of the least of these commandments, and teaches men so, shall be called least in the kingdom of heaven; but whoever does and teaches them, he shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 5:19, NKJV)
Don’t worry about amount as God Counts Fairly in Relative Measure and Love so no one is at any disadvantage, example:
“… 1And He looked up and saw the rich putting their gifts into the treasury, 2and He saw also a certain poor widow putting in two mites.[a] 3So He said, “TRULY I say to you that this POOR widow has put in MORE THAN ALL; 4for all these out of their abundance have put in offerings [b]for God, but she OUT OF HER POVERTY PUT IN ALL THE LIVELIHOOD THAT SHE HAD.” …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 21:1 – 4, NKJV)
Tangible Giving Lifestyle on earth now is closely related to your gain in heavenly inheritance, Verses by CHRIST HIMSELF:
“.. So is he who lays up treasure for himself, and is NOT RICH TOWARD GOD. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 12:21, NKJV)
“… 31“But SEEK HIS KINGDOM, and THESE THINGS will be ADDED TO YOU. 32“Do not be afraid, little flock, for your Father has chosen gladly to give you the kingdom. 33“SELL YOUR POSSESSIONS and GIVE TO CHARITY; make yourselves money belts which do not wear out, an unfailing treasure in heaven, where no thief comes near nor moth destroys. 34“For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. 35“Be dressed in readiness, and KEEP YOUR LAMPS LIT. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 12:31 – 35, NASB)
“… BLESSED are those who DO HIS COMMANDMENTS, that they may have the RIGHT TO THE TREE OF LIFE, and may ENTER THROUGH THE GATES INTO THE CITY. …” (Revelation 22:14, NKJV)
Note: Please notice the phrase “… DO HIS COMMANDMENTS, …” which certainly includes those who did the below:
“… 38“YOU HAVE HEARD THAT IT WAS SAID, ‘An EYE FOR AN EYE and a tooth for a tooth.’ [Deuteronomy 19:19 – 21]. 39But I TELL YOU NOT TO RESIST AN EVIL PERSON. But whoever slaps you on your right cheek, turn the other to him also. 40If anyone wants to sue you and TAKE AWAY YOUR TUNIC, LET HIM HAVE YOUR CLOAK ALSO. 41And whoever compels you to go one mile, go with him two. 42GIVE to him who asks you, and from him WHO WANTS TO BORROW from you DO NOT TURN AWAY. 43“You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ 44[o]But I SAY TO YOU, LOVE YOUR ENEMIES, … 47And if you greet your [p]brethren only, WHAT DO YOU DO MORE THAN OTHERS? …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 5:38 – 44, 47, NKJV)
“… and has MADE US KINGS AND PRIESTS to His God and Father, to Him be glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen …” (Revelation 1:6, NKJV)
Peace to you
Example Comment for Edification for those still unsure whether to kill their enemies on earth now or not
Question
Those verses above from new test.PROMOTING LOVE YOUR ENEMIES are only good when pastors ,priest church leaders ,founders are Proselytising people who do not read carefully whats really inside the book ,only picking a verse that is sounds good to hear ,all these Love being mentioned are not true because these book new test actually promote hatred against the jewish people …THE FACT IS JESUS/YASUA COMMANDMENTS NEGATE EVERYTHING MENTIONED ABOUT “LOVE YOUR ENEMIES”
LUKE 19:27
For those enemies of mine who do not want me to the King over them ,bring them here in front of me and KILL THEM ..Very clear
MATHEW 10:34
Do not suppose that i have come to bring peace in the earth , i did not come to bring peace but a sword ( thats why until now we are in a Chaotic and a troubled time )
Reply
Luke 19:27 is a Parable on Judgment Day not a judgment now. You misunderstood. Regarding Matthew 10:34 also, the “sword” Christ Speaks of is just disagreement with family due to believing in Him and He never Said kill your family with sword but indicates that some will betray you or become your enemy for believing in Him. Nothing else is Written or Commanded hence the Love your enemies is not negated but misunderstood by you. If God Wants to Kill Evil on Judgment Day or When He Returns He does so because you people likewise didn’t love your enemies or killed them or approved those who kill like that and so nothing wrong in Him executing them like that on that Day. Till then there’s a chance to repent yea!
Peace to you
Edifying Comments – Is Love your Enemies only toward Christian Enemies?
Question
Your enemies among your brothers. Of your own Christian people. Just like love your neighbors is.. You people never do care about context. You just look for excuses to be cowardly and pretend its a virtue while you tolerate evil.
Reply
Matthew 5:38 identifies the context as the evil person which is not a Christian. In Matthew 5:39 – 44, same consecutive Context, Christ’s Love your enemies He Says to Emulate the Father who makes the sun or rain on the “good/just” and “evil/just” implying non-Christian again.
“… 38“You have heard that it was said, ‘An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth.’ [Deuteronomy 19:21 ] 39BUT I TELL YOU NOT to RESIST an EVIL PERSON. But whoever slaps you on your right cheek, turn the other to him also. 40If anyone wants to sue you and take away your tunic, let him have your cloak also. 41And whoever compels you to go one mile, go with him two. 42Give to him who asks you, and from him who wants to borrow from you do not turn away. 43“You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall love your neighbor and HATE YOUR ENEMY.’ 44[o]BUT I SAY TO YOU, LOVE YOUR ENEMIES, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you, 45that you may be SONS OF YOUR FATHER in heaven; for He makes His sun rise on the EVIL AND ON THE GOOD, and sends rain on the JUST AND ON THE UNJUST. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 5:38 – 45, NKJV)
Peace to you
Two Conditions for Eternal Life Uttered by Christ Himself in Luke 10:27 – 28
Question
The Real Test of a Christian is whether he is “Lawless” or not according to Verse below, right?
“… 21“Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father in heaven. 22MANY will say to Me in that day, ‘Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in Your name, cast out demons in Your name, and done many wonders in Your name?’ 23And then I will declare to them, ‘I never knew you; depart from Me, you who practice LAWLESSNESS!’ …” (Matthew 7:21 – 23, NKJV)
Reply
Yes. Being “unloving/unforgiving” and “despisers of Good/brutal” (which includes ignoring the ‘Charity Doctrine’ Love in Action Command of New Testament Scripture) is also being “lawless” according to Verse below:
“… UNLOVING, UNFORGIVING, slanderers, without self-control, BRUTAL, DESPISERS of GOOD …” (2 Timothy 3:3, NKJV)
So the Two Conditions for Eternal Life by Christ are:
1) Love God = Keep Holy
2) Love Others in Action = Charity Doctrine toward “Neighbours” where Christ’s Definition of a “Neighbour” is not the same race/same religion / same denomination / same church only but including enemies as Jews & Samaritans were enemies.
Note: When you “Do His Word” you already believe in Christ in that, right? For who does what he does “not” believe in? To ‘no do His Direct Command for Eternal Life’ means we don’t really believe in Him, right?
Here are those Verses in “Full”:
“… 25And behold, a certain lawyer stood up and tested Him, saying, “Teacher, what shall I DO TO INHERIT ETERNAL LIFE?” 26He said to him, “What is WRITTEN IN THE LAW? What is YOUR READING OF IT?” 27So he answered and said, “ ‘You shall LOVE THE LORD YOUR GOD with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your strength, and with all your mind,’ and ‘YOUR NEIGHBOR AS YOURSELF.’ ” 28And He said to him, “You have answered rightly; DO THIS AND YOU WILL LIVE.” 29But he, wanting to justify himself, said to Jesus, “And WHO IS MY NEIGHBOR?” 30Then JESUS ANSWERED and said: “A certain man went down from Jerusalem to Jericho, and fell among thieves, who stripped him of his clothing, wounded him, and departed, leaving him half dead. 31Now by chance a certain priest came down that road. And when he saw him, he passed by on the other side. 32Likewise a Levite, when he arrived at the place, came and looked, and passed by on the other side. 33But a certain Samaritan, as he journeyed, came where he was. And when he saw him, he had COMPASSION. 34So he went to him and BANDAGED HIS WOUNDS, pouring on oil and wine; and he set him on his own animal, brought him to an inn, and TOOK CARE OF HIM. 35On the next day, when he departed, he took out two denarii, gave them to the innkeeper, and said to him, ‘TAKE CARE OF HIM; and WHATEVER MORE YOU SPEND, when I come again, I WILL REPAY YOU.’ 36So which of these three do you think was NEIGHBOR to him who fell among the thieves? 37And he said, “He who SHOWED MERCY on him.” Then JESUS SAID to him, “GO AND DO LIKEWISE.”…” (Luke 10:25 – 37, NKJV)
Comment: The phrase “…22You worship what you do not know; we know what we worship …” (in John 4:22) means that a “Samaritan” represents someone who has an imperfect knowledge of God by Christ’s Own Definition and might attain to Eternal Life as per the Parable of the Good Samaritan above as opposed to the “Jew” (who had more correct knowledge of God but failed to DO THIS TO LIVE in ETERNAL LIFE).
Conclusion
“… For all the law (Torah) is fulfilled in one word, even in this: “You shall love your neighbor as yourself.” …” (Galatians 5:14, NKJV)
“… Therefore, whatever you want men to do to you, do also to them, for this is the Law (Torah) and the Prophets. …” (Matthew 7:12, NKJV)
“… 29JESUS answered him, “The [k]first of all the commandments is: ‘Hear, O Israel, the Lord our God, the Lord is one. 30And you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your mind, and with all your strength.’ [l]This is the first commandment. 31And the second, like it, is this: ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is NO OTHER COMMANDMENT GREATER THAN THESE.” …” (Mark 12:29 – 31, NKJV)
Yes, even your sins are covered from Judgment if you love:
“… And above all things have fervent love for one another, for “LOVE will COVER a MULTITUDE OF SINS.” …”(1 Peter 4:8, NKJV)
“… Therefore I say to you, HER SINS, which are MANY, ARE FORGIVEN, for SHE LOVED MUCH. But to whom little is forgiven, the same loves little. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 7:47, NKJV)
Peace to you
Fruits of Righteousness Mystery – Please Sow Peace not War
“… Now the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace by those who make peace. …” (James 3:18, NKJV)
The Original Bible didn’t come in chapter and verse separations but as one long letter and this is how the Context looks like in the original as one continuous Writing as it is Written:
“… But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, willing to yield, FULL OF MERCY and GOOD FRUITS, without partiality and without hypocrisy. Now the FRUIT OF RIGHTEOUSNESS is SOWN in PEACE by THOSE WHO MAKE PEACE. 1Where do [a]WARS AND FIGHTS come from among you? Do they not come from YOUR DESIRES FOR PLEASURE that war in your members? 2You lust and do not have. You MURDER AND COVET AND CANNOT OBTAIN. YOU FIGHT AND [B]WAR. [c]Yet you do not have because you do not ask. 3You ask and do not receive, because you ask amiss, that you may SPEND IT ON YOUR PLEASURES. 4[d]Adulterers and adulteresses! Do you not know that FRIENDSHIP WITH THE WORLD is enmity with God? Whoever therefore wants to be a friend of the world makes himself an enemy of God. …” (James 3:17 – 18, 4:1 – 4, NKJV)
Comment: the phrase “Fruit of Righteousness” is linked to “Sowing Peace” and “no friendship with the World” in Verses above. So perhaps the Rejected bad trees which bear bad fruits are thus those which either sow “war” and/or “prosperity pursuits” of making friends with the World desiring these things as the Context of these Verses so clearly Describe who may be part of the denied ones described in Verses below?
“… 17Even so, every good tree bears good fruit, but a bad tree bears bad fruit. 18A good tree cannot bear bad fruit, nor can a bad tree bear good fruit. 19EVERY TREE that does NOT BEAR GOOD FRUIT is CUT DOWN AND THROWN INTO THE FIRE. 20Therefore by their fruits you will know them. 21“Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father in heaven. 22MANY will say to Me in that day, ‘Lord, Lord, have we NOT PROPHESIED in Your name, CAST OUT DEMONS in Your name, and DONE MANY WONDERS in Your name?’ 23And then I will declare to them, ‘I NEVER KNEW YOU; depart from Me, you who practice LAWLESSNESS!’
24“Therefore WHOEVER HEARS THESE SAYINGS OF MINE, and DOES THEM, I will liken him to a WISE MAN who BUILT HIS HOUSE ON THE ROCK: …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 7:13 – 24, NKJV)
“Desire” for the things of “this world” (e.g. “prosperity”) is the main reason for “wars and fights” where they want to “enjoy life” (for their “pleasures”) instead of say share what they have with others. So people “murder and covet” to try to get these earthly things which is the root cause according to these Verses in James earlier.
So brethren, let us please be careful of any prosperity claiming theology because we may end up believing that we are claiming these possessions of the World now “making friends with the World” and in the end lose our “friendship with God” as these Verses warn. The opposite is to sow peace by ignoring these worldly things because such persons won’t fight for worldly things and in return harvest out righteousness as a result. Can you see it?
“… BLESSED are the PEACEMAKERS, For they shall be CALLED SONS OF GOD. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 5:9, NKJV)
Here are those same Verses in an easier English Translation:
“… 17But the wisdom from above is first of all pure. It is also peace loving, gentle at all times, and willing to yield to others. It is FULL OF MERCY and the FRUIT OF GOOD DEEDS. It shows no favoritism and is always sincere. 18And those WHO ARE PEACEMAKERS will PLANT SEEDS OF PEACE and reap a HARVEST OF RIGHTEOUSNESS. 1What is causing the quarrels and fights among you? Don’t they come from the evil desires at war within you? 2You want what you don’t have, so you scheme and kill to get it. You are jealous of what others have, but you can’t get it, so you fight and wage war to take it away from them. Yet you don’t have what you want because you don’t ask God for it. 3And even when you ask, you don’t get it because your motives are all wrong—you want only what will give you pleasure. 4You adulterers!a Don’t you realize that friendship with the world makes you an enemy of God? I say it again: If you want to be a friend of the world, you make yourself an enemy of God. …” (James 3:17 – 18, 4:1 – 4, NLT)
Please also notice the phrases “… FULL OF MERCY and the FRUIT OF GOOD DEEDS …” Which are chiefly the Charity Doctrine Acts/Lifestyle too.
Peace to you
The Biblical Sign – Are we Pleasing to God?
The Bible Verse below states that if “our ways please God” we won’t be involved in “wars with our enemies” as proof of that but exactly the opposite, namely that “our enemies” will be at “peace” with us, Verses:
“… When a MAN’S WAYS PLEASE THE LORD, He makes EVEN HIS ENEMIES to be AT PEACE WITH HIM. …” (Proverbs 16:7, NKJV)
Here is that same Verse in a few Translations:
New International Version
When the LORD takes pleasure in anyone’s way, he causes their enemies to make peace with them.
New Living Translation
When people’s lives please the LORD, even their enemies are at peace with them.
English Standard Version
When a man’s ways please the LORD, he makes even his enemies to be at peace with him.
Berean Study Bible
When a man’s ways please the LORD, He makes even the man’s enemies live at peace with him.
King James Bible
When a man’s ways please the LORD, he maketh even his enemies to be at peace with him.
New American Standard Bible
When a person’s ways are pleasing to the LORD, He causes even his enemies to make peace with him.
So please let us be careful of any “un-peaceful Christianity” which may “not be Pleasing to God” and that’s why it’s Always AT WAR and NOT IN PEACE with ITS ENEMIES. Can you see it?
If any Christian suffers in the hands of any enemy, it’s only for one reason namely he “suffers for doing Good Works toward his enemies” as these set of Verses clearly explain:
“… 13And WHO IS HE WHO WILL HARM YOU if you become FOLLOWERS OF WHAT IS GOOD? 14But even if you should SUFFER FOR RIGHTEOUSNESS’ SAKE, YOU ARE BLESSED. “And do not be afraid of their threats, nor be troubled.” 15But [d]sanctify [e]the Lord God in your hearts, and always be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you, with meekness and fear; 16having a good conscience, that when they defame you as evildoers, those who revile your good conduct in Christ may be ashamed. 17For it is better, if it is THE WILL OF GOD, TO SUFFER FOR DOING GOOD THAN FOR DOING EVIL. …” (1 Peter 3:13 – 17, NKJV)
Please consider these same set of Verses in an easier English Translation below for clarity:
“… 13Now, WHO WILL WANT TO HARM YOU if you are EAGER TO DO GOOD? 14But even IF YOU SUFFER FOR DOING WHAT IS RIGHT, God will reward you for it. So don’t worry or be afraid of their threats. 15Instead, you must worship Christ as Lord of your life. And if someone asks about your hope as a believer, always be ready to explain it. 16But do this in a gentle and respectful way.c Keep your conscience clear. Then if people speak against you, they will be ashamed when they see what a good life you live because you belong to Christ. 17Remember, it is BETTER TO SUFFER FOR DOING GOOD, IF THAT IS WHAT GOD WANTS, THAN TO SUFFER FOR DOING WRONG! …” (1 Peter 3:13 – 17, NLT)
Comment: “Doing Good” certainly includes the Charity Doctrine Context and beyond that too as part of the “Christian Lifestyle” according to Verses above.
Peace to you
Charity Doctrine as Well Pleasing to God – An Aroma of Worship Mystery
Firstly, faith is a must to please God:
“… But WITHOUT FAITH it is IMPOSSIBLE TO PLEASE HIM, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him. ….” (Hebrews 11:6, NKJV)
But to Please God Further or become “Well Pleasing” till it’s equivalent to an “Aroma of Worship”, the Bible Teaches this toward a Church:
“… Indeed I have all and abound. I am full, having received from Epaphroditus the things sent from you, a SWEET-SMELLING AROMA, an ACCEPTABLE SACRIFICE WELL PLEASING TO GOD. …” (Philippians 4:18, NKJV)
If God is so “Well Pleased” with the “Charity Doctrine” Act of these Churches Providing for the “needs” (not wants/prosperity/luxury) of Apostle St. Paul, to not do it might be displeasing to Him, right?
Also please take note that a Church or group of believers living or fellowshipping together are well pleasing to God if they take care of each other’s needs in this way. The opposite must also be true namely, if we don’t do it, then we must “NOT be well pleasing to God”, right?
Here are those Verses in full:
“… 11Not that I speak in regard to need, for I have LEARNED IN WHATEVER STATE I AM, TO BE CONTENT: 12I know how to [d]be abased, and I know how to [e]abound. Everywhere and in all things I have learned both to be full and to be hungry, BOTH TO ABOUND AND TO SUFFER NEED. 13I can do all things through [f]Christ who strengthens me. 14Nevertheless you have done well that you SHARED IN MY DISTRESS. 15Now you Philippians know also that in the beginning of the gospel, when I departed from Macedonia, NO CHURCH SHARED WITH ME CONCERNING GIVING and receiving but YOU ONLY. 16For even in Thessalonica YOU SENT AID ONCE AND AGAIN FOR MY NECESSITIES. 17Not that I seek the gift, but I seek the FRUIT THAT ABOUNDS to YOUR ACCOUNT. 18Indeed I [g]have all and abound. I am full, having received from EPAPHRODITUS THE THINGS SENT FROM YOU, a SWEET-SMELLING AROMA, an ACCEPTABLE SACRIFICE, WELL PLEASING TO GOD. 19And my God shall SUPPLY ALL YOUR NEED according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus. 20Now to our God and Father be glory forever and ever. Amen. …” (Philippians 4:11 – 20, NKJV)
Please note the following from the above carefully:
1) Contentment Doctrine
There is “no” prayer for “Prosperity” (as Christ Himself only Taught ‘Give us our Daily Bread’ in the Lord’s Prayer) but only a Prayer to be able to accept either ‘needs being met or not being met’ (being “content” or able to accept it either way):
“… or I have learned in WHATEVER STATE I AM, TO BE CONTENT: 12I know HOW TO [D]BE ABASED, and I KNOW HOW TO [E]ABOUND. 13I can do all things through [f]Christ who strengthens me. …”
So “faith” is not asking for more or less but asking for God’s Grace to endure either.
2) Not every Church will have a heart of Giving of sharing toward Poorer Churches/Believers but the Churches who Share with the Poor Believers and beyond are the “Best”
“… 14Nevertheless you have done well that you shared in my distress. 15Now you Philippians know also that in the beginning of the gospel, when I departed from Macedonia, NO CHURCH SHARED WITH ME CONCERNING GIVING and receiving BUT YOU ONLY. …”
3) Giving adds a unique “fruit” to our “heavenly account” (rewardable). Remember the Good vs Bad Fruit part of Christ’s Denial Verses in Matthew 7:13 – 24?) and thus “the Fruit of Giving” cannot be ignored, right?
“…16For even in Thessalonica YOU SENT AID ONCE AND AGAIN FOR MY NECESSITIES. 17Not that I seek the gift, but I seek the FRUIT THAT ABOUNDS TO YOUR ACCOUNT. ..”
4) Blessed Apostle St. Paul only Speaks of God Providing one’s “needs” and “not our wants/desires/luxury/prosperity etc.” as we saw this danger in James 4:1 – 6 too.
“…19And my God shall SUPPLY ALL YOUR NEED according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus. …”
5) Giving “Well Pleases God” and is likened to an “Aroma” where some Bible Teachers have thus linked “Giving as a Type of Worship”
“… 18Indeed I [g]have all and abound. I am full, having received FROM EPAPHRODITUS THE THINGS SENT FROM YOU, A SWEET-SMELLING AROMA, AN ACCEPTABLE SACRIFICE, WELL PLEASING TO GOD. …”
Do you remember this name “Epaphroditus “?
He was the same one one mentioned in these Verses next. Before that, please take note “Giving Tangible Worldly Goods” to “supply the needs of others” is not a sidelined ministry but is a “Way to Lay down your life for the Brethren” and hence a Proof of the “Greatest Love of God” in them that do this:
“… 16By this we know love, because He laid down His life for us. And we also OUGHT TO LAY DOWN OUR LIVES FOR THE BRETHREN. 17But WHOEVER HAS THIS WORLD’S GOODS, and SEES HIS BROTHER IN NEED, AND SHUTS UP HIS HEART FROM HIM, HOW DOES THE LOVE OF GOD ABIDE IN HIM? 18My little children, let us NOT LOVE IN WORD or IN TONGUE, BUT IN DEED AND IN TRUTH …” (1 John 3:16 – 18, NKJV)
Can you see it?
Scripture interpreting Scripture for the equivalent phrases “lay down your life” Speaks of the “Charity Doctrine” toward the “Brethren” by sharing “this world’s goods” literally and tangibly as “living this Greatest Love of All” probably even dying whilst doing so as the case of EPAPHRODITUS reveals in Verses below:
“… 25Yet I considered it necessary to send to you EPAPHRODITUS, MY BROTHER, FELLOW WORKER, and FELLOW SOLDIER, but your messenger and THE ONE WHO MINISTERED TO MY NEED; 26since he was longing for you all, and was distressed because you had heard that he was sick. 27For INDEED HE WAS SICK ALMOST UNTO DEATH; but God had mercy on him, and not only on him but on me also, lest I should have sorrow upon sorrow. 28Therefore I sent him the more eagerly, that when you see him again you may rejoice, and I may be less sorrowful. 29Receive him therefore in the Lord with all gladness, and HOLD SUCH MEN IN ESTEEM; 30because FOR THE WORK OF CHRIST HE CAME CLOSE TO DEATH, [h]not regarding his life, to SUPPLY WHAT WAS LACKING IN YOUR SERVICE TOWARD ME. …” (Philippians 2:25 – 30, NKJV)
That’s the Greatest Love of All.
Please read ‘carefully’ and note these Beautiful Biblical Truths from Verses above:
- Blessed EPAPHRODITUS is explicitly mentioned in Holy Scripture as someone who practiced the Charity Doctrine and supplied the needs of Apostle St. Paul himself
Phrase: “… EPAPHRODITUS, … and THE ONE WHO MINISTERED TO MY NEED …”
- Blessed EPAPHRODITUS is not doing a sidelined ministry by his Charity Doctrine lifestyle but is called almost equal with Apostle St. Paul himself for his Charity Work toward St. Paul to supply his needs
Phrase: “… EPAPHRODITUS, MY BROTHER, FELLOW WORKER, and FELLOW SOLDIER, …”
- To live the Charity Doctrine lifestyle to provide for Apostle St. Paul, he even probably almost died as his health deteriorated for doing so much work to supply Apostle St. Paul’s needs
Phrase: “… 27For INDEED HE WAS SICK ALMOST UNTO DEATH …”
- Such Charity Workers who supply the needs of other Christians (e.g. toward Apostle St. Paul’s needs in this case or equivalently others too e.g. giving food to Christian orphanages or the poor etc.) are to be held in “High Esteem” as Scripture Says and not as ‘sidelined ministries’ as sometimes Charities are seen
Phrase: “… 29Receive him therefore in the Lord with all gladness, and HOLD SUCH MEN IN ESTEEM; …”
- Charity Doctrine Work of Supplying the physical Earthly “needs” is the only explicit work mentioned of this person whom Holy Scripture highly praises and mentions below as a “Work of Christ”. So the “Charity Doctrine” is a “Work of Christ” and is not inferior in any way toward the ‘other ministry work in Christ too’ according to these Bible Verses literally. Can you see it “as it is Written”?
Phrase: “… 30because FOR THE WORK OF CHRIST HE CAME CLOSE TO DEATH, [h]not regarding his life, to SUPPLY WHAT WAS LACKING IN YOUR SERVICE TOWARD ME. …”
Please note that no other work of Christ is mentioned to be done by Blessed EPAPHRODITUS in his life apart from this Charity Doctrine lifestyle. If there was other work he did, Apostle St. Paul would have clearly pointed that out too. Please also notice that his “supplying of Apostle St. Paul’s needs” was even covering what the Church couldn’t give to Apostle St. Paul & “lacked” in their giving. Similarly, for example Christian orphanages or the poor may be lacking in their needs being supplied and thus richer Christians or churches must thus look beyond race/denominations etc. and help them. Not only them but also toward non-Christians this ‘Charity Doctrine’ needs to be done by Christians according to Verses below too:
“… But do not forget to DO GOOD AND TO SHARE, for with SUCH SACRIFICES GOD IS WELL PLEASED. …” (Hebrews 13:16, NKJV)
Hebrews 13:16 sounds similar to Philippians 4:18, right? That’s why some believe that the Anonymous author of the Book of Hebrews must be Blessed Apostle St. Paul himself.
Note: This Charity Doctrine of Giving counts toward “needs” only and “not giving luxury etc.” (which is not the context of these Verses) and in fact, it must be Given to a Person in “Need” of it only and not toward the “rich” (be it rich Christians, rich non-Christians nor toward rich pastors) as per the General Warning in Verse below:
“… And HE WHO GIVES TO THE RICH, WILL SURELY COME TO POVERTY. …” (Proverbs 22:16, NKJV)
Example: Balance your giving and give to ‘another pastor/believer from another church/denomination even who is in need’ if you find your pastor/church/believer already having it as these Verses show.
The Grace of Giving doesn’t end there for Christians to Give to other Christians only but to “All” including “Enemies” too as “CHRIST COMMANDED” in Verses below:
“… Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us DO GOOD TO ALL, especially to those who are of the household of faith. …” (Galatians 6:19, NKJV)
“… And if you do good to those who do good to you, what credit is that to you? For even sinners do the same. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 6:33, NKJV)
“… 30GIVE TO EVERYONE WHO ASKS OF YOU. And from him who takes away your goods DO NOT ASK THEM BACK. 31And just as you want men to do to you, you also do to them likewise. 32“But IF YOU LOVE THOSE WHO LOVE YOU, WHAT CREDIT IS THAT TO YOU? For even sinners love those who love them. 33And IF YOU DO GOOD TO THOSE WHO DO GOOD TO YOU, WHAT CREDIT IS THAT TO YOU? For even sinners do the same. 34And if YOU LEND to those from whom you HOPE TO RECEIVE BACK, what credit is that to you? For even sinners lend to sinners to receive as much back. 35But LOVE YOUR ENEMIES, DO GOOD, AND LEND, [h]HOPING FOR NOTHING IN RETURN; and your REWARD WILL BE GREAT, and YOU WILL BE SONS OF THE MOST HIGH. For He is KIND to the UNTHANKFUL AND EVIL. 36Therefore be merciful, just as your Father also is merciful. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 6:27 – 36, NKJV)
I admit that this Perfection is too hard but let’s just do the little that we can. Even what this Poor Widow did in this Context of “Giving” is also beyond me, to quote:
“… [1And He looked up and saw the rich putting their gifts into the treasury, 2and He saw also a certain poor widow putting in two mites.[a] 3So He said], “TRULY I say to you that this POOR widow has put in MORE THAN ALL; 4for all these out of their abundance have put in offerings [b]for God, but she OUT OF HER POVERTY PUT IN ALL THE LIVELIHOOD THAT SHE HAD.” …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 21:1 – 4, NKJV)
Comment: I repeat, God doesn’t look at the result nor the amount of giving but your love & relative measure which makes it ‘fair to all’ (as God has no Partiality) as the widow who gave only two coins which probably couldn’t feed any still gave more than all including the Rich’s giving which had tangible effects in comparison.
Peace to you
Safe Route Scripturally – Relative Measure and Rewards in His Kingdom
Beautifully Quote in Image regarding “Why Written Scripture?”
Simple Logic: If the true Way to Obedience and reward was doing something “not” Written or something only which the “rich” can do with their resources (of people or money) for God, then it would be completely not fair for the poor or disadvantaged to be able to do anything for the Gospel.
Truth is even if suppose say God Allowed many today to do it differently (I’m not sure so I’m saying it as a possibility), the “Written Way” in “New Testament Scripture” never changes and is fair to all because the Obedience to “His New Testament Commands” can be done by anyone and so it’s the only Universal Measure as discussed in earlier Post below:
https://www.facebook.com/651792783/posts/10160920533447784/
Conclusion
Please allow me to give two New Testament Bible Verses Directly from Christ Proving how “He Rewards” Fairly by “Relative Measure”:
1) Gospel Work Reward – Living out Christ’s Commands
“… But others fell on GOOD GROUND and yielded a crop: some a HUNDREDFOLD, some sixty, some thirty. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 13:8, NKJV)
Please notice the word “Hundredfold” in Matthew 19:29 below where “Doing one of these Written Works” makes a “Hundredfold” Fruit (not by belief only):
“… 27Then Peter answered and said to Him, “See, we have LEFT ALL and FOLLOWED YOU. Therefore what shall we have?” 28So Jesus said to them, “Assuredly I say to you, that in the REGENERATION, when the Son of Man sits on the throne of His glory, you who have followed Me will also sit on twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel. 29And EVERYONE who has LEFT HOUSES or brothers or sisters or father or mother or WIFE or children or LANDS, for MY NAME’S SAKE, shall RECEIVE a HUNDREDFOLD, and INHERIT ETERNAL LIFE. 30But MANY who are FIRST will be LAST, and the LAST FIRST. …” (Matthew 19:27 – 30, NKJV)
Comment: The faith part can lead to “Eternal Life” but the “type of work” yields either a “thirty, sixty or Hundredfold” reward. Scripture here clearly Defines the “Hundredfold Reward” on top of “Eternal Life” (please notice this “Hundredfold Reward” and “Eternal Life” being separately mentioned in this Verse, Matthew 19:29 by Christ Himself) to belong to those who have done one or more of the following to become among the first in His Kingdom: “… 29And EVERYONE who has LEFT HOUSES or brothers or sisters or father or mother or WIFE or children or LANDS, for MY NAME’S SAKE, shall RECEIVE a HUNDREDFOLD, and INHERIT ETERNAL LIFE. 30But MANY who are FIRST will be LAST, and the LAST FIRST. …”. Whether any other work can be considered for the Hundredfold Reward I am not sure because it’s not Written but let God Decide.
Note: If Christ Talks about Ranking in His Kingdom based on “Firsts” and “Lasts” we ought to Teach Honestly likewise too.
Relative Measure part: “… 30But MANY who are FIRST will be LAST, and the LAST FIRST. …”
This same phrase of “… First shall be last and last shall be first …” is Explained by Christ in Verses below too implying this Truth of same Reward due to Equal Works not by Volume but by His Grace in “Relative Measure”:
“… 1“For the kingdom of heaven is like a landowner who went out early in the morning to hire laborers for his vineyard. 2Now when he had agreed with the laborers for a denarius a day, he sent them into his vineyard. 3And he went out about the third hour and saw others standing idle in the marketplace, 4and said to them, ‘You also go into the vineyard, and whatever is right I will give you.’ So they went. 5Again he went out about the sixth and the ninth hour, and did likewise. 6And about the eleventh hour he went out and found others standing [a]idle, and said to them, ‘Why have you been standing here idle all day?’ 7They said to him, ‘Because NO ONE HIRED US.’ He said to them, ‘You also go into the vineyard, [b]and WHATEVER IS RIGHT YOU WILL RECEIVE.’ 8“So when evening had come, the owner of the vineyard said to his steward, ‘Call the laborers and give them their wages, BEGINNING WITH THE LAST TO THE FIRST.’ 9And when those came who were hired about the eleventh hour, they each received a denarius. 10But when the first came, they supposed that they would receive more; and they likewise received each a denarius. 11And when they had received it, they [c]complained against the landowner, 12saying, ‘THESE LAST MEN HAVE WORKED ONLY ONE HOUR, and you made them EQUAL TO US who have borne the burden and the heat of the day.’ 13But he answered one of them and said, ‘Friend, I am doing you no wrong. Did you not agree with me for a denarius? 14Take what is yours and go your way. I WISH TO GIVE TO THIS LAST MAN THE SAME AS TO YOU. 15Is it not lawful for me to do what I wish with my own things? Or is your eye evil because I am good?’ 16So the LAST WILL BE FIRST, AND THE FIRST LAST. For[d] many are called, but FEW CHOSEN.” …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 20:1 – 16, NKJV)
Comment: Please notice that God didn’t Give this Reward to someone who didn’t work at all but gave the “same reward” for someone who worked “12 hours” and someone who worked for “1 hour”. The common ground is that they “both worked” for the Gospel in some way. However, God Wishes to Give them Equal because the relative measure points for them to receive it for the possible hidden reason of “quality/accuracy of work” or if they would have done the same as those who worked 12 hours if given the earlier hire but it’s nothing unfair because this mysterious statement at the start may explain it fairly as “… and WHATEVER IS RIGHT YOU WILL RECEIVE.’ …” (Matthew 20:7 above). So, no one gets anything that is “not right” via unfairness but only according to “one’s work” in “obeying Christ’s Commands”.
A correct interpretation of Scripture doesn’t put anyone at an advantage or bias but gives everyone an equal chance at the rewards of the Kingdom according to one’s work. Please also note the phrase “… For[d] many are called, but FEW CHOSEN.” …” (in Matthew 20:16 above) which points to “those who worked one hour type but equal in Relative Measure to those who worked 12 hours type” as the ones meant as the “FEW CHOSEN” as the context of the Verses above reveal. I find all these interesting and intriguing Scriptural Mysteries.
2) Gospel Giving of Love – Planting and Watering Work
“… 5Who then is Paul, and who is Apollos, but ministers through whom you believed, as the Lord gave to each one? 6I PLANTED, APOLLOS WATERED, but GOD GAVE THE INCREASE. 7So then NEITHER HE WHO PLANTS IS ANYTHING, NOR HE WHO WATERS, BUT GOD WHO GIVES THE INCREASE. 8Now HE WHO PLANTS AND HE WHO WATERS ARE ONE, and EACH ONE WILL RECEIVE HIS OWN REWARD ACCORDING TO HIS OWN LABOR. 9For we are God’s fellow workers; you are God’s field, you are God’s building. …” (1 Corinthians 3:5 – 9, NKJV)
Gospel Watering Work is related to the Charity Doctrine because it keeps believer’s needs met and taken care of and shows real love tangibly toward those outside.
In the Context of Giving to Charity/the Poor, God’s Relative Measure is clearly seen in Verses below too, again directly by Christ Himself:
“… 1And He looked up and saw the rich putting their gifts into the treasury, 2and He saw also a certain poor widow putting in two mites. 3So He [The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ] said, “Truly I say to you that this poor widow has put in MORE THAN ALL; 4for all these out of their abundance have put in offerings for God, but she out of HER POVERTY put in ALL THE LIVELIHOOD THAT SHE HAD. …” (Luke 21:1 – 4, NKJV)
Conclusion – Deeper Mysteries regarding the “first shall be last and the last shall be first”
We also find the meaning of definition of “being Saved” is to be one of the Elect and being part of the “First Resurrection” as Christ Describes in Verses below mentioning even this “first shall be last and the last shall be first” to refer to this context of reward of participating in the first Resurrection as well:
“…22And He went through the cities and villages, teaching, and journeying toward Jerusalem. 23Then one said to Him, “LORD, ARE THERE FEW WHO ARE SAVED?” And He said to them, 24“Strive to enter through the narrow gate, for many, I say to you, will seek to enter and will not be able. 25When once the Master of the house has risen up and shut the door, and you begin to stand outside and knock at the door, saying, ‘Lord, Lord, open for us,’ and He will answer and say to you, ‘I do not know you, where you are from,’ 26then you will begin to say, ‘We ate and drank in Your presence, and You taught in our streets.’ 27But He will say, ‘I tell you I do not know you, where you are from. Depart from Me, all you workers of iniquity.’ 28There will be weeping and gnashing of teeth, when you see Abraham and Isaac and Jacob and all the prophets in the kingdom of God, and yourselves thrust out. 29They will come from the east and the west, from the north and the south, and sit down in the kingdom of God. 30And indeed THERE ARE LAST WHO WILL BE FIRST and THERE ARE FIRST WHO WILL BE LAST.” …” (Luke 13:22 – 31, NKJV)
Please notice the following carefully:
1) The Question “… “LORD, ARE THERE FEW WHO ARE SAVED?” …” (Luke 13:23)
2) The Answer —> In Verses above Christ is Talking about His Return and establishment of the 1000 years Millennial Reign in Verses above which links to these Verses below:
“… 34JESUS answered and said to them, “The sons of this age marry and are given in marriage. 35But those who are counted worthy to attain that AGE (Aeon/Olam), and the resurrection from the dead (Revelation 20:4 – 6), neither marry nor are given in marriage; 36nor can they die anymore, for they are equal to the angels and are sons of God, being sons of the resurrection. …” (Luke 20:34 – 36, NKJV)
“… 5But the rest of the dead did not live again until the thousand years were finished. This is the first resurrection. 6Blessed and holy is he who has part in the first resurrection. Over such the second death has no power, but they shall be priests of God and of Christ, and shall reign with Him a thousand years. …” (Revelation 20:5 – 6, NKJV)
“…And hast made us unto our God kings and priests: and we shall reign on the earth [Revelation 20:4 – 6]. …” (Revelation 5:10, KJV)
Did you notice that “being Saved” is equal to being part of the “First Resurrection” in Verses quoted above (Luke 13:22 – 31, Luke 20:34 – 36 and Revelation 20:4 – 6)?
There’s possibly a Second Badge being Saved later during Judgment Day as Revelation 20:5 ensures that this Happens 1000 years later as per Revelation 20:11 – 15 where Matthew 25:31 – 46 seems to heavily point to those Saved on Judgment Day (being Surprised) as those who Practiced the Charity Doctrine (in Matthew 25:31 – 46). Which is the correct interpretation? Only God Knows but what we know is that “His Commands” are key to “His Rewards” and let’s believe in Him now itself.
One last thing: The concept of equal rewards for all Christians is not taught here as some seem to err, please consider again these Verses carefully:
“… 30And indeed THERE ARE LAST WHO WILL BE FIRST and THERE ARE FIRST WHO WILL BE LAST.” …” (Luke 13:30, NKJV)
Comment: It says here “there are first who will be last” (meaning some of the first get lesser reward) and “there are last who will be first” (some of the last get higher reward) proving the variations of rewards (either a reduction or increase as God Will Reveal the Reasons when He Returns). Most likely due to relative measure.
“…16So the LAST WILL BE FIRST, AND THE FIRST LAST. For[d] many are called, but FEW CHOSEN.” …” Matthew 20:16, NKJV)
Comment: This Verse was written in the Context of the “Few” referring literally to the “1 hour” workers who became first and got the same reward as the first 12 hours workers who became last getting this same reward. So, this could be a different context where God Rewards them equally due to relative measure or for “Whatever right” reason He Keeps Hidden for now as per Matthew 20:7 toward those “who worked only” and these “first” are called “few” while the “many” could be the rest of the saved (as per Matthew 20:28) and that these “many” could be referring to those hired at the “first, third, sixth and ninth” hours too (Matthew 20:3 – 6 mentions them clearly in contrast). Christ Himself Says that it’s based on how much of HIS COMMANDS we PREACH and DO”:
“… 19Whoever therefore BREAKS one of the LEAST of THESE COMMANDMENTS, and TEACHES men so, shall be called LEAST in the kingdom of HEAVEN; but whoever DOES AND TEACHES them, he shall be called GREAT in the kingdom of HEAVEN. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 5:19, NKJV)
Did you notice that Christ Links being “least” or “greatest” in “His Kingdom” toward “Preaching and Obeying HIS COMMANDS” and ‘not other Doctrinal Accuracies such as Prophecies etc.’?
In other words, please focus on teaching especially CHRIST’S DIRECT NEW TESTAMENT COMMANDS which certainly includes the CHARITY DOCTRINE COMMANDS to CHURCH ORDER and DAILY LIVING COMMANDS and HOLINESS COMMANDS and not all the other unrelated ritualistic Torah Commands.
Peace to you
Maybe God is Answering our Prayers – How?
Question
My prayer is that I want to be closest to God and not be distracted by any worldly thing. How come then I am poor?
Reply
Please consider these Verses regarding how wealth or financial blessings can actually lead you away from God and that “falsehood” and “lies” are closely linked to teaching the opposite of these Verses:
1) This Psalm proves that one doesn’t live in “prosperity/luxury” but only takes his “daily need” from God’s Providence is God’s Will
“… 7Two things I request of You
(Deprive me not before I die):
8REMOVE FALSEHOOD AND LIES FAR FROM ME;
GIVE ME NEITHER POVERTY NOR RICHES—
FEED ME WITH THE FOOD ALLOTTED TO ME;
9Lest I be full and deny You,
And say, “Who is the Lord?”
Or lest I be poor and steal,
And profane the name of my God. …” (Proverbs 30:7 – 9, NKJV)
Comment: So when we Pray that we want to be “close to God”, maybe the Verse above is being fulfilled and we are complaining that we are not getting the “rich man financial blessings” which is contradictory to the verse above. As for Blessed Patriarch Abraham or Blessed Job’s case, it is never written once that they enjoyed prosperity with their own money even though Job’s children did have some gluttony but Job didn’t participate in it as per Job 1:4 – 5. However, they shared extravagantly daily toward the poor as discussed in an earlier post below:
https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=10160884268282784&id=651792783
Note: Scripture doesn’t record Abraham or Job praying for any financial blessings. They got it even when they didn’t ask nor seek it. So faith for money or asking for it is “not” the Bible Way in their scenarios too and is a misplaced faith (as “no” Verse states that. If anyone states the opposite, please ask them to show “Which Verse”?).
2) Christ Himself Says that anyone who lays up treasure to “save himself” (Selfish) is “not rich toward God” (lesser heavenly rewards or least in His Kingdom) for God Loves those who lay down their lives for the brethren
“… So is he who LAYS UP TREASURE FOR HIMSELF, and is NOT RICH TOWARD GOD. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 12:21, NKJV)
“… 16BY THIS WE KNOW LOVE, because He laid down His life for us. And we also ought to LAY DOWN OUR LIVES for the brethren. 17But whoever HAS THIS WORLD’S GOODS, and sees his brother in need, and SHUTS UP HIS HEART FROM HIM, HOW does the LOVE OF GOD ABIDE IN HIM? 18My little children, let us NOT LOVE IN WORD or IN TONGUE, but IN DEED AND IN TRUTH. …” – Blessed St. John the only non-martyr Apostle of Christ (1 John 3:16 – 18, NKJV)
3) The Early Church lived communally in groups of houses where if they saved money it’s “not for oneself” but for everyone in the house’s “needs” (not for luxury, prosperity or anything else)
“… … 44Now all who BELIEVED were together, and had ALL THINGS in COMMON, 45and SOLD their POSSESSIONS and goods, and divided them among all, AS ANYONE HAD NEED. 46So continuing DAILY with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, they ate their food with gladness and SIMPLICITY of HEART, 47praising God and having favor with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily those who were being saved. …” (Acts 2:44 – 47, NKJV)
Please notice the word “Need” carefully in these Verses.
4) The Biblical Definition of “One Heart and One Soul” (please notice these two Words in Verses below) is only Found among Christians who live “Communally” like this in their “Daily Lives”:
“… 32Now the multitude of those who BELIEVED were of ONE HEART and ONE SOUL; neither did anyone say that ANY of the THINGS he POSSESSED was HIS OWN, but they had ALL THINGS in COMMON. … 34Nor was there anyone among them who lacked; for ALL who were POSSESSORS of LANDS or HOUSES SOLD them, and brought the proceeds of the things that were sold, 35and laid them at the apostles’ feet; and they DISTRIBUTED to each as ANYONE had NEED. 36And Joses, who was also named Barnabas by the apostles (which is translated Son of Encouragement), a Levite of the country of Cyprus, 37having land, sold it, and brought the money and laid it at the apostles’ feet. …” (Acts 4:32, 34 – 37, NKJV)
Comment: There’s no greater way to fulfill “all Law/Torah” by living and sharing like this to fulfill “love your neighbor as yourself” because it’s not the fake lesser love where the rich meet you in church and after that they enjoy prosperity and good meals while the poor suffers. This proves that they don’t see you as equal nor are loving you as themselves even toward those of the same church. You cannot do it to everybody due to financial constraints but please try doing it to some believer who is not your blood family, Verse:
” … For ALL THE LAW IS FULFILLED in one word, even in this: “You shall LOVE YOUR NEIGHBOR AS YOURSELF. …” (Galatians 5:14, NKJV)
5) Daily Bread Request in the Lord’s Prayer
“… 11Give us this day our daily bread. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 6:11, NKJV)
Comment: Please notice that Christ never Asked to Pray beyond a Day’s Meal as the Rule of Contentment is as even that’s the way God Fed the Israelites of the past in the desert by providing Manna which lasts only for that day but spoils if you keep for the next day (Exodus 16:1 – 36, Numbers 11:1 – 9). Example Verses (please notice the word “Need” and how it matches for only the need for one day in Verses below):
“… 11And the Lord spoke to Moses, saying, 12“I have heard the complaints of the children of Israel. Speak to them, saying, ‘AT TWILIGHT YOU SHALL EAT MEAT, and IN THE MORNING YOU SHALL BE FILLED WITH BREAD. And you shall know that I am the Lord your God.’ ” 13So it was that quail came up at evening and covered the camp, and in the morning the dew lay all around the camp. 14And when the layer of dew lifted, there, on the surface of the wilderness, was a small round substance, as fine as frost on the ground. 15So when the children of Israel saw it, they said to one another, “What is it?” For they did not know what it was. And Moses said to them, “THIS IS THE BREAD WHICH THE LORD HAS GIVEN YOU TO EAT. 16This is the thing which the Lord has commanded: ‘Let EVERY MAN GATHER IT ACCORDING TO EACH ONE’S NEED, one omer for each person, according to the number of persons; LET EVERY MAN TAKE FOR THOSE WHO ARE IN HIS TENT.’ ” 17Then the children of Israel did so and gathered, some more, some less. 18So when they measured it by omers, he who gathered much had nothing left over, and he who gathered little had no lack. Every man had gathered according to each one’s need. 19And Moses said, “Let no one leave any of it till morning.” 20Notwithstanding THEY DID NOT [B]HEED MOSES. But SOME OF THEM LEFT PART OF IT until morning, and it BRED WORMS AND STANK. And MOSES WAS ANGRY with them. 21So they gathered it every morning, EVERY MAN ACCORDING TO HIS NEED. And when the sun became hot, it melted. …” (Exodus 16:11 – 21, NKJV)
Note: Also in Divine Providence, God Seems to be Giving only “Two Meals per Day” and not “three meals” or even 4 or 5 or 6 meals per day as some people practice such as ‘breakfast, lunch, dinner, tea time, supper, midnight snack etc.’. I’m not judging but just asking if whether beyond two meals per day (one consisting of “meat” as God Knows Best regarding Dietary Needs by His Providence), is it considered “Gluttony”? Maybe I’m over analysing this passage or it could be something worth pondering about.
No wonder some people don’t like “Written” Verses in the Bible and prefer to believe, Preach and Pray for things in ways “not” written in Scripture because it fuels “their desire” for “prosperity or luxury or equivalent” which is actually the sign that “they love the World” (for you won’t ask for it unless you love that secretly and you cannot give it up unless you don’t love it) which is very dangerous according to Verses below:
“… Do not love the world or the THINGS IN THE WORLD. If ANYONE LOVES THE WORLD, the LOVE OF THE FATHER IS NOT IN HIM. …” (1 John 2:15, NKJV)
“… 17Brethren, join in FOLLOWING MY EXAMPLE, and NOTE THOSE WHO SO WALK, as you have us for a PATTERN. 18For MANY WALK, of whom I have told you often, and now tell you even weeping, that they are the ENEMIES OF THE CROSS OF CHRIST: 19whose END IS DESTRUCTION, whose GOD IS THEIR BELLY, and whose glory is in their shame—who SET THEIR MIND ON EARTHLY THINGS. …” – Blessed St. Paul the Great Apostle of Christ (Philippians 3:17 – 19, NKJV)
Here’s an Example First Christianity Quote by a man who was Practically fasting almost all his life till he was martyred for Christ:
“… The prince of this world is determined to lay hold of me and to undermine my will which is intent on GOD. Let none of you here help him; instead show yourselves on my side, which is also GOD’s side. DO NOT TALK ABOUT JESUS CHRIST AS LONG AS YOU LOVE THIS WORLD. Do not harbor envious thoughts. And supposing I should see you, if then I should beg you to intervene on my behalf, do not believe what I say. BELIEVE INSTEAD WHAT I AM NOW WRITING TO YOU. For though I am alive as I write to you, still my real desire is to die. My love of this life has been crucified, and THERE IS NO YEARNING IN ME FOR ANY EARTHLY THING. Rather WITHIN ME IS THE LIVING WATER which says deep inside me: “Come to the Father.” I NO LONGER TAKE PLEASURE IN PERISHABLE FOOD OR IN THE DELIGHTS OF THIS WORLD. I want only GOD’s BREAD, WHICH IS THE FLESH OF JESUS CHRIST, formed of the seed of David, and for drink I crave his blood, which is love that cannot perish. I am no longer willing to live a merely human life, and you can bring about my wish if you will. Please, then, do me this favor, so that you in turn may meet with equal kindness. …” – Blessed St. Ignatius, Bishop of Antioch, nicknamed ‘God-Bearing’, An Apostolic Father being the direct Disciple of the Blessed Apostle St. John, Martyr for Christ (c. 35 AD – c. 108 AD)
Source:
https://www.abrahamicstudyhall.org/2018/10/17/ignatius-antioch-meal-beasts-reaching-god/
Note for Protestants: St. Ignatius has “no” prayers to Virgin Mary/Saints or equivalent in his preserved writings so we can consider him and it must be original as the Roman Catholics didn’t add anything to it to try make him look like them. In the Quotes above, we are listening to a man whom we know for sure is filled with the Most Blessed Holy Spirit of God.
We are not perfect so we may not be able to live to this level of Truth but Christ Being Perfect Illustrates the Perfection in this aspect too as above. This literal meaning is true regardless of the allegorical meanings which can also be true as Scripture usually has more than one meaning. A true Bible Student shouldn’t reject one meaning for the other but embrace all especially the literal or first meaning intended in Holy Scripture.
In light of these Verses, we shouldn’t be complaining if we are not rich, right?
If we are rich, we should be sharing like Blessed Abraham or Blessed Job to fulfill God’s Will, right? New Testament Verse or “Command” (so it’s not an option):
“… 17COMMAND THOSE WHO ARE RICH in this present age not to be haughty, nor to trust in uncertain riches but in the living God, who gives us richly all things to enjoy. 18Let THEM DO GOOD, that they be RICH IN GOOD WORKS, READY TO GIVE, WILLING TO SHARE, 19storing up for themselves a good foundation for the time to come, that THEY MAY LAY HOLD ON ETERNAL LIFE. …” (1 Timothy 6:17 – 19, NKJV)
P/S: Judgment Day Verses – What Impresses God?
“… 31“When the Son of Man comes in His glory, and all the [c]holy angels with Him, then He will sit on the throne of His glory. 32All the nations will be gathered before Him, and He will separate them one from another, as a shepherd divides his sheep from the goats. 33And He will set the sheep on His right hand, but the goats on the left. 34Then the King will say to those on His right hand, ‘Come, you blessed of My Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world: 35for I was hungry and you gave Me food; I was thirsty and you gave Me drink; I was a stranger and you took Me in; 36I was naked and you clothed Me; I was sick and you visited Me; I was in prison and you came to Me.’ 37“Then the righteous will answer Him, saying, ‘LORD, WHEN DID WE SEE YOU HUNGRY and FEED YOU, OR THIRSTY AND GIVE YOU DRINK? 38When did we SEE YOU A STRANGER AND TAKE YOU IN, or NAKED AND CLOTHE YOU? 39Or when did we see YOU SICK, OR IN PRISON, AND COME TO YOU?’ 40And the King will answer and say to them, ‘ASSUREDLY, I SAY TO YOU, INASMUCH AS YOU DID IT TO ONE OF THE LEAST OF THESE MY BRETHREN, YOU DID IT TO ME.’ 41“Then He will also say to those on the left hand, ‘Depart from Me, you cursed, into the everlasting fire prepared for the devil and his angels: 42for I WAS HUNGRY AND YOU GAVE ME NO FOOD; I WAS THIRSTY AND YOU GAVE ME NO DRINK; 43I WAS A STRANGER and YOU DID NOT TAKE ME IN, NAKED and YOU DID NOT CLOTHE ME, SICK and IN PRISON AND YOU DID NOT VISIT ME.’ 44“Then they also will answer [d]Him, saying, ‘Lord, when DID WE SEE YOU HUNGRY or THIRSTY OR A STRANGER OR NAKED OR SICK or in PRISON, and did not minister to You?’ 45Then He will answer them, saying, ‘Assuredly, I say to you, inasmuch as YOU DID NOT DO IT to one of the least of these, you DID NOT DO IT TO ME.’ 46And THESE WILL GO AWAY INTO EVERLASTING PUNISHMENT, but the righteous into eternal life.” …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 25:31 – 46, NKJV)
There’s a possibility these Verses can mean a Greater Hope as discussed in an earlier post below:
https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=10160629881647784&id=651792783
Peace to you
Gift of the Holy Spirit Mystery – Which Gift is a must for Every Christian?
Question
The works that Jesus did involved giving, by healing the sick, casting out devils, cleansing the lepers, and raising the dead. he told us to do the same.
Reply
1) Not all need to do those miracle works according to Verses below
“… 27Now you are the body of Christ, and members individually. 28And God has appointed these in the church: first apostles, second prophets, third teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of healings, helps, administrations, varieties of tongues. 29Are all apostles? Are all prophets? Are all teachers? Are ALL WORKERS OF MIRACLES? 30DO ALL HAVE GIFTS OF HEALINGS? DO ALL SPEAK WITH TONGUES? Do all interpret? 31But earnestly desire the [i]best gifts. And YET I SHOW YOU A MORE EXCELLENT WAY. …” (1 Corinthians 12:27 – 30, NKJV)
Note: The “more Excellent Way” referred to in Verses above is the Way of Agape/Love which is described in the famous 1 Corinthians 13 passage which stands by itself and needs not “miracles” or “tongues” etc. as it is compared by the “Bible Verses” above (not my opinion) and so we know that it’s highest way there is better than all the gifts above. Now, Agape (“or Love of God”) in Action is Commanded and described in many verses as nothing more than “the Charity Doctrine of Giving & Sharing Tangible Earthly Goods Lifestyle” as per example Verse below (which agrees with the Judgment Day Verses in Matthew 25:31 – 46 next too):
“… 16By this WE KNOW LOVE, because He laid down His life for us. And we also OUGHT TO LAY DOWN OUR LIVES FOR THE BRETHREN. 17But WHOEVER HAS THIS WORLD’S GOODS, and SEES HIS BROTHER IN NEED, AND SHUTS UP HIS HEART FROM HIM, HOW DOES THE LOVE OF GOD ABIDE IN HIM? 18My little children, let us NOT LOVE IN WORD or IN TONGUE, BUT IN DEED AND IN TRUTH …” (1 John 3:16 – 18, NKJV)
2) Judgment Day Verses agree in pointing that the “Giving” Works of “Love” (Agape) is sufficient as follows
“… 31“When the Son of Man comes in His glory, and all the [c]holy angels with Him, then He will sit on the throne of His glory. 32All the nations will be gathered before Him, and He will separate them one from another, as a shepherd divides his sheep from the goats. 33And He will set the sheep on His right hand, but the goats on the left. 34Then the King will say to those on His right hand, ‘Come, you blessed of My Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world: 35for I was hungry and you gave Me food; I was thirsty and you gave Me drink; I was a stranger and you took Me in; 36I was naked and you clothed Me; I was sick and you visited Me; I was in prison and you came to Me.’ 37“Then the righteous will answer Him, saying, ‘LORD, WHEN DID WE SEE YOU HUNGRY and FEED YOU, OR THIRSTY AND GIVE YOU DRINK? 38When did we SEE YOU A STRANGER AND TAKE YOU IN, or NAKED AND CLOTHE YOU? 39Or when did we see YOU SICK, OR IN PRISON, AND COME TO YOU?’ 40And the King will answer and say to them, ‘ASSUREDLY, I SAY TO YOU, INASMUCH AS YOU DID IT TO ONE OF THE LEAST OF THESE MY BRETHREN, YOU DID IT TO ME.’ 41“Then He will also say to those on the left hand, ‘Depart from Me, you cursed, into the everlasting fire prepared for the devil and his angels: 42for I WAS HUNGRY AND YOU GAVE ME NO FOOD; I WAS THIRSTY AND YOU GAVE ME NO DRINK; 43I WAS A STRANGER and YOU DID NOT TAKE ME IN, NAKED and YOU DID NOT CLOTHE ME, SICK and IN PRISON AND YOU DID NOT VISIT ME.’ 44“Then they also will answer [d]Him, saying, ‘Lord, when DID WE SEE YOU HUNGRY or THIRSTY OR A STRANGER OR NAKED OR SICK or in PRISON, and did not minister to You?’ 45Then He will answer them, saying, ‘Assuredly, I say to you, inasmuch as YOU DID NOT DO IT to one of the least of these, you DID NOT DO IT TO ME.’ 46And THESE WILL GO AWAY INTO EVERLASTING PUNISHMENT, but the righteous into eternal life.” …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 25:31 – 46, NKJV)
3) Even the rejected “Many” will quote to have done and converted “Many” (please notice this phrase carefully in Verse below) in some End Times Christianity (because they’re alive when Christ Returns) but Christ Denies them plainly in Verses below despite the claim of the gifts of PROPHESY, MIRACLES and CASTING OUT DEMONS
“… 21“Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father in heaven. 22MANY will say to Me in that day, ‘Lord, Lord, have we not PROPHESIED in Your name, CAST OUT DEMONS in Your name, and done MANY WONDERS in Your name?’ 23And then I will declare to them, ‘I NEVER KNEW YOU; depart from Me, YOU WHO PRACTICE LAWLESSNESS!’ 24“Therefore WHOEVER HEARS THESE SAYINGS OF MINE, and DOES THEM, I will liken him to a WISE MAN WHO BUILT HIS HOUSE ON THE ROCK: …” (Matthew 7:21 – 24, NKJV)
Please also notice carefully that these rejected ones converted people, hence “MANY” (Could be ‘Majority’) but are Denied because they never taught nor emphasized on His Direct Commandments and His Commandments through His Apostles as it is Written in the New Testament Verses but focused on “Prophesying”, “Casting out of Demons” and “Miracles” instead.
All else is sinking sand, right?
“… If you love Me, keep My commandments. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (John 14:15, NKJV)
The Focus of Doctrine must be “His Commands” as Matthew 7:24 in context above also points to this instead of focusing on Gifts but ignoring His Commands which is Lawlessness as discussed in an earlier post in link below:
https://www.facebook.com/651792783/posts/10160920533447784/
Yes,
“… BLESSED are those who DO HIS COMMANDMENTS, that they may have the RIGHT TO THE TREE OF LIFE, and may ENTER THROUGH THE GATES INTO THE CITY. …” (Revelation 22:14, NKJV)
Note: Please notice the phrase “… DO HIS COMMANDMENTS, …” which refers to “His New Testament Commands” only as Matthew 7:24 agrees stating “… 24“Therefore WHOEVER HEARS THESE SAYINGS OF MINE, and DOES THEM, I will liken him to a WISE MAN WHO BUILT HIS HOUSE ON THE ROCK: …”. Can you see it? Are we Preaching His New Testament Commands which certainly includes the Charity Doctrine Commands, Lifestyle & Church Order Commands and Holiness Commands?
Conclusion
The Original Bible didn’t come with Chapter/Verse separations but as one long letter and quoting these Consecutive Verses, it is clear that the “Gift of Agape/Love of God” is Greatest and is Describing a Lifestyle or Way of Living Beautifully Described in Verses below:
“… 27Now you are the body of Christ, and members individually. 28And God has appointed these in the church: first apostles, second prophets, third teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of healings, helps, administrations, varieties of tongues. 29Are all apostles? Are all prophets? Are all teachers? Are ALL WORKERS OF MIRACLES? 30DO ALL HAVE GIFTS OF HEALINGS? DO ALL SPEAK WITH TONGUES? Do all interpret? 31But earnestly desire the [i]best gifts. But earnestly desire the best gifts. And yet I show you A MORE EXCELLENT WAY [of Agape, Love of God]*. 1Though I SPEAK WITH THE TONGUES of men and of angels, but HAVE NOT LOVE, I have become SOUNDING BRASS OR A CLANGING CYMBAL. 2And though I have the gift of prophecy, and understand all mysteries and all knowledge, and though I HAVE ALL FAITH, so that I could remove mountains, BUT HAVE NOT LOVE, I AM NOTHING. 3And though I bestow all my goods to feed the poor, and though I GIVE MY BODY [A]TO BE BURNED, but HAVE NOT LOVE, it PROFITS ME NOTHING. … And now abide faith, hope, love, these three; but the GREATEST OF THESE IS LOVE. … ” – The Wise and Gifted Blessed St. Paul the Apostle (1 Corinthians 12:27 – 31, 1 Corinthians 13:1 – 3, 13, NKJV)
*[Emphasis Mine for clarity]
Please notice the following from Verses above:
- i) Which is the Best Spiritual Gift to have and a must for every Christian?
“… 29Are all apostles? Are all prophets? Are all teachers? Are ALL WORKERS OF MIRACLES? 30DO ALL HAVE GIFTS OF HEALINGS? DO ALL SPEAK WITH TONGUES? Do all interpret? 31But earnestly desire the [i]best gifts. But earnestly desire the best gifts. And yet I show you A MORE EXCELLENT WAY [of Agape, Love of God]. …”
- ii) Gift of Speaking in Tongues Vs Gift of Agape
“… 1Though I SPEAK WITH THE TONGUES of men and of angels, but HAVE NOT LOVE, I have become SOUNDING BRASS OR A CLANGING CYMBAL. …”
iii) Gift of Faith or Prophecy Vs Gift of Agape
“… 2And though I have the GIFT OF PROPHECY, and understand all mysteries and all knowledge, and though I HAVE ALL FAITH, so that I could remove mountains, BUT HAVE NOT LOVE, I AM NOTHING. …”
- iv) Gift of Giving or Gift of Martyrdom to be Burned alive even Vs Gift of Agape
“… 3And though I bestow all my goods to FEED THE POOR, and though I GIVE MY BODY [A]TO BE BURNED, but HAVE NOT LOVE, it PROFITS ME NOTHING …”
- v) Everything including Faith depends on Agape but Agape Stands by Itself and is the Greatest
“… And now abide faith, hope, love, these three; but the GREATEST OF THESE IS LOVE. … ”
Why do we need to compare these Gifts like that? If the Bible Verses Compare it, we compare it. If the Bible Verses does not compare it, we shouldn’t compare it either. Can you please see it “as it’s Written”?
In short, “without Agape/Love of God”, every Gift Fails.
Peace to you
True Churches of God – Which Ones? – Safe Route Scripturally
Any Christianity (Churches or Individuals) who Practice “His New Testament Commands” are “Doing the Righteous Acts of the Saints” as Described Beautifully in the Unveiling of the Bride of Christ (or “Church”) Verse below:
“… 7Let us be glad and rejoice and give Him glory, for the marriage of the Lamb has come, and His wife has made herself ready.” 8And to her it was granted to be ARRAYED IN FINE LINEN, CLEAN AND BRIGHT, for the FINE LINEN is the RIGHTEOUS ACTS OF THE SAINTS. 9Then he said to me, “Write: ‘Blessed are those who are called to the marriage supper of the Lamb!’ ” And he said to me, “These are the true sayings of God.” . …” (Revelation 19:7 – 9, NKJV)
Whether you use the same Original Manuscript as the NKJV or the newly discovered Dead Sea Scrolls one (as per NIV or NASB below, next) you will find that the WEDDING DRESS of HIS CHURCH (or Metaphorically called as the “BRIDE OF CHRIST“, as the highest Creation of God) is nothing else than the ACTION of RIGHTEOUS ACTS pointing to GOOD WORKS including the CHARITY DOCTRINE Primarily according to 1 John 3:17 – 18 or Luke 12:31 – 35 etc. So please consider the focus part of Revelation 19:8 in a few Translations below to see this Same Truth more clearly “as it is Written”:
New International Version
Fine linen, bright and clean, was given her to wear.” (FINE LINEN stands for the RIGHTEOUS ACTS of God’s holy people.)
New Living Translation
She has been given the finest of pure white linen to wear.” For the FINE LINEN represents the GOOD DEEDS of God’s holy people.
English Standard Version
it was granted her to clothe herself with fine linen, bright and pure”— for the FINE LINEN is the RIGHTEOUS DEEDS of the saints.
Berean Study Bible
She was given clothing of fine linen, bright and pure.” For the FINE LINEN she wears is the RIGHTEOUS ACTS of the saints.
Berean Literal Bible
And it was given to her that she should be clothed in bright, pure, fine linen.” For the FINE LINEN is the RIGHTEOUS ACTS of the saints.
King James Bible
And to her was granted that she should be arrayed in fine linen, clean and white: for the FINE LINEN is the RIGHTEOUSNESS of saints.
New King James Version
And to her it was granted to be arrayed in fine linen, clean and bright, for the FINE LINEN is the RIGHTEOUS ACTS of the saints.
New American Standard Bible
It was given to her to clothe herself in fine linen, bright and clean; for the FINE LINEN is the RIGHTEOUS ACTS of the saints.
Source: https://biblehub.com/revelation/19-8.htm
Which “Righteous Acts” is the Verses above referring to? Keeping/Obeying His Commandments:
“… 19Whoever therefore BREAKS one of the LEAST of THESE COMMANDMENTS, and TEACHES men so, shall be called LEAST in the kingdom of HEAVEN; but whoever DOES AND TEACHES them, he shall be called GREAT in the kingdom of HEAVEN. 20For I say to you, that unless YOUR RIGHTEOUSNESS EXCEEDS the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees, you will by NO MEANS ENTER the KINGDOM of HEAVEN. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 5:19 – 20, NKJV)
Did you notice that Christ Links being “least” or “greatest” in “His Kingdom” toward “Preaching and Obeying HIS COMMANDS” and ‘not other Doctrinal Accuracies such as Prophecies etc.’? These is discussed in detail in link below:
https://www.facebook.com/651792783/posts/10160925636457784/
In other words, please focus on teaching especially CHRIST’S DIRECT NEW TESTAMENT COMMANDS which certainly includes the CHARITY DOCTRINE COMMANDS to CHURCH ORDER and DAILY LIVING COMMANDS and HOLINESS COMMANDS and not all the other unrelated ritualistic Torah Commands.
“… If you LOVE ME, KEEP MY COMMANDMENTS. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (John 14:15, NKJV)
Please be careful of any Christianity which does “not” focus on Preaching the New Testament Commands because as the Parable of the Wedding Feast goes, Christ Explains in Verses below that the Rejected ones are those with “NO WEDDING GARMENTS” which we see from Revelation 19:8 above to mean that these have “NO RIGHTEOUS WORKS IN ACTION, not words or in belief only”, Verses regarding the “FEW” who are SAVED in the FIRST RESURRECTION (Luke 20:35 – 36, Matthew 7:13 – 24, Revelation 20:4 – 6, Luke 13:22 – 31):
“… 11“But when THE KING came in to see the guests, he saw a man there who did NOT HAVE ON A WEDDING GARMENT. 12So he said to him, ‘Friend, how did you come in here WITHOUT A WEDDING GARMENT?’ And he was speechless. 13Then the king said to the servants, ‘Bind him hand and foot, [b]take him away, and cast him into outer darkness; THERE WILL BE WEEPING AND GNASHING of TEETH.’ 14“For MANY ARE CALLED, BUT FEW ARE CHOSEN.” …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 22:11 – 14, NKJV)
Comment: Christ Cannot be the “Wedding Dress” as Blessed Martin Luther (Protestant Founder) claims because Christ is Standing and Asking that Person to have it and more importantly because Revelation 19:8 earlier defines it as a “Good Works” or “Righteous Deeds” as follows: “… ARRAYED IN FINE LINEN, CLEAN AND BRIGHT, for the FINE LINEN is the RIGHTEOUS ACTS OF THE SAINTS …” (Revelation 19:8, NKJV). Can you see it as it is Written please?
Please allow me to repeat: The Focus of Doctrine must be “His Commands” as Matthew 7:24 in context above also points to this instead of focusing on Gifts but ignoring His Commands which is Lawlessness as discussed in an earlier post in link below:
https://www.facebook.com/651792783/posts/10160920533447784/
Yes,
“… BLESSED are those who DO HIS COMMANDMENTS, that they may have the RIGHT TO THE TREE OF LIFE, and may ENTER THROUGH THE GATES INTO THE CITY. …” (Revelation 22:14, NKJV)
Note: Please notice the phrase “… DO HIS COMMANDMENTS, …” which refers to “His New Testament Commands” only as Matthew 7:24 agrees stating “… 24“Therefore WHOEVER HEARS THESE SAYINGS OF MINE, and DOES THEM, I will liken him to a WISE MAN WHO BUILT HIS HOUSE ON THE ROCK: …”. Can you see it? Are we Preaching His New Testament Commands which certainly includes the Charity Doctrine Commands, Lifestyle & Church Order Commands and Holiness Commands?
Here’s a First Christianity Testimony by a Man of God accepted by all Christianity in General from Protestant Founders to Catholics or Orthodox speaking this same definition that the “Wedding Garment or Fine Linen” is the “Righteous Acts” of the Saints , to quote:
“… In the Church itself, hear the Apostle, ARE ALL PROPHETS? HAVE ALL THE GIFTS OF HEALING? DO ALL SPEAK WITH TONGUES? 6. WHAT IS THAT WEDDING GARMENT THEN? This is the wedding garment: Now the end of the commandment, says the Apostle, is CHARITY OUT OF A PURE HEART, and of a good conscience, and of faith unfeigned. This is the wedding garment. Not charity of any kind whatever; for very often they who are partakers together of an evil conscience seem to love one another. They who commit robberies together, who love the hurtful arts of sorceries, and the stage together, who join together in the shout of the chariot race, or the wild beast fight; these very often love one another; but in these there is no charity out of a pure heart, and of a good conscience, and of faith unfeigned. The wedding garment is such charity as this. Though I speak with the tongues of men and of Angels, and have not charity, I have become as sounding brass, and a tinkling cymbal. Tongues have come in alone, and it is said to them, How came ye in hither not having a wedding garment? Though, said he, I have the gift of prophecy, and understand all mysteries, and all knowledge, and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, and have not charity, I am nothing. See, these are the miracles of men who very often have not the wedding garment. Though, he says, I have all these, and have not Christ, I am nothing. Is then the gift of prophecy nothing? Is then the knowledge of mysteries nothing? It is not that these are nothing; but I, if I have them, and have not charity, am nothing. How many good things profit nothing without this one good thing! If then I have not charity, though I bestow alms freely upon the poor, though I have come to the confession of Christ’s Name even unto blood and fire, these things may be done even through the love of glory, and so are vain. Because then they may be done even from the love of glory, and so be vain, and not through the rich charity of a godly affection, he names them all also in express terms, and you give ear to them; though I distribute all my goods for the use of the poor, and though I give my body to be burned, and have not charity, it profits me nothing. This then is the wedding garment. Question yourselves; if you have it, you may be without fear in the Feast of the Lord. In one and the same man there exist two things, charity and desire. Let charity be born in you, if it be yet unborn, and if it be born, be it nourished, fostered, increased. …” – Blessed St. Augustine of Hippo, Doctor of the Church, who influenced virtually all of subsequent Western philosophy and Catholic theology, as well as a significant amount of Protestant theology (c. 354 AD – c. 430 AD, Point 5 and 6, Sermon 40 on the New Testament)
Source: https://www.newadvent.org/fathers/160340.htm
It is more clear in his next sermon where St. Augustine especially points to the “WEDDING GARMENT” to refer to the “CHARITY DOCTRINE LIFESTYLE OR ACTS” below:
“… Are the good only said to believe? The devils also believe and tremble. What shall I do? I have sifted all, and have not yet come to the wedding garment. I have unfolded my envelopings, I have considered all, or almost all, and have not yet come to that garment. The Apostle Paul in a certain place has brought me a great collection of excellent things; he has laid them open before me, and I have said to him, Show me, if so be you have found among them that ‘wedding garment.’ He begins to unfold them one by one, and to say, Though I speak with the tongues of men and of Angels, though I have all knowledge, and the gift of prophecy, and all faith, so that I could remove mountains; though I distribute all my goods to the poor, and give my body to be burned. Precious garments! nevertheless, there is not yet here that wedding garment. Now bring out to us the wedding garment. Why do you keep us in suspense, O Apostle? Peradventure prophecy is a gift of God which both good and bad have not. If, says He, I have not charity, nothing profits me. See the wedding garment; put it on, you guests, that you may sit down securely. Do not say; we are too poor to have that garment. CLOTHE OTHERS, AND YOU ARE CLOTHED YOURSELVES. It is winter, CLOTHE THE NAKED. CHRIST IS NAKED; and HE WILL GIVE YOU THAT WEDDING GARMENT whosoever have it not. Run to Him, beseech Him; He knows how to sanctify His faithful ones, He knows how to clothe His naked ones. That ye may be able as having the wedding garment to be free from the fear of the outer darkness, and the binding of your members and hands and feet; let NOT YOUR WORKS FAIL. If they fail, with hands bound what can you do? With feet bound, whither will you fly? Keep then that wedding garment, put it on, and so sit down in security, when He comes to inspect. The Day of Judgment will come; He is now giving a long space, let him who erewhile was naked now be clothed. …” – Blessed St. Augustine of Hippo, Doctor of the Church, who influenced virtually all of subsequent Western philosophy and Catholic theology, as well as a significant amount of Protestant theology (c. 354 AD – c. 430 AD, Point 7, Sermon 45 on the New Testament)
Source: https://www.newadvent.org/fathers/160345.htm
Focus Quote pointing to actual Charity Doctrine Actions as the Wedding Garment from St. Augustine’s Quote above: “… CLOTHE OTHERS, AND YOU ARE CLOTHED YOURSELVES. It is winter, CLOTHE THE NAKED. CHRIST IS NAKED; and HE WILL GIVE YOU THAT WEDDING GARMENT …”. He is giving this example to show the Context meant generally.
For Protestants, almost all accept Blessed John Calvin (the Founder of Five Point Calvinism Doctrine etc.) where he writes below even more directly that the “Wedding Garment” refers more to the “GOOD WORKS and FAITH together”, to quote:
“… As to the WEDDING GARMENT, is it faith, or is it a holy life? This is a useless controversy; for FAITH CANNOT BE SEPARATED FROM GOOD WORKS, nor do good works proceed from any other source than from faith. Christ intended only to state that the Lord calls us on the express condition of our being renewed by the Spirit … and that, in order to our remaining permanently in his house, we must put off the old man with his pollutions … and lead a new life …” – Blessed John Calvin, The Founder of the Five-Point Calvinism and No.1 most Influential Protestant Theologian of all time (Point 2, John Calvin, Commentary on Matthew, Mark, Luke – Volume 2)
Source: https://www.ccel.org/ccel/calvin/calcom32.ii.xxxii.html
St. Augustine Points further that the “Wedding Garment” only refers to a Christianity which obeys Christ’s “Love your neighbor” and “Love your enemies commands in Action”, to quote:
“… 9. So then, have FAITH WITH LOVE. This is the WEDDING GARMENT. You who love Christ, love one another, LOVE YOUR FRIENDS, LOVE YOUR ENEMIES. Let not this be hard to you. What then do ye lose thereby, when you gain so much? What? Do you ask of God as some great favour, THAT YOUR ENEMY MAY DIE? THIS IS NOT THE WEDDING GARMENT. Turn your thoughts to the Bridegroom Himself hanging upon the Cross for you, and PRAYING TO HIS FATHER FOR HIS ENEMIES; Father, says He, forgive them, for they know not what they do. You have seen the Bridegroom speaking thus; see too the friend of the Bridegroom, a with the wedding garment. Look at the blessed Stephen, how he rebukes the Jews as though in rage and resentment, You stiffnecked and uncircumcised in heart and ears, you have resisted the Holy Ghost. Which of the Prophets have not your fathers killed? You have heard how severe he is with his tongue. And at once you are prepared to speak against any one; and I would it were against him who offends God, and not who offends you. One offends God, and you do not rebuke him; he offends you, and you cry out; where is that wedding garment? You have heard therefore how Stephen was severe; now hear how he loved. He offended those whom he was rebuking, and was stoned by them. And as he was being overwhelmed and bruised to death by the hands of his furious persecutors on every side, and the blows of the stones, he first said, Lord Jesus Christ, receive my spirit. Then after he had prayed for himself standing, he bent the knee for them who were stoning him, and said, Lord, lay not this sin to their charge; let me die in my body, but let not these die in their souls. And when he had said this, he fell asleep. After these words he added no more; he spoke them and departed; HIS LAST PRAYER WAS FOR HIS ENEMIES. LEARN YE HEREBY TO HAVE THE WEDDING GARMENT. …” – Blessed St. Augustine of Hippo, Doctor of the Church, who influenced virtually all of subsequent Western philosophy and Catholic theology, as well as a significant amount of Protestant theology (c. 354 AD – c. 430 AD, Point 9, Sermon 40 on the New Testament)
Source: https://www.newadvent.org/fathers/160340.htm
Comment: So a Christianity which kills its enemies or plays political & economic games to play them out disobeying Christ’s Command below to “Love your enemies” may “not” have the “Wedding Garment” as St. Augustine himself Describes above. Interesting indeed.
Will of the Father is to be in Action like the Father which Christ describes like this: Yes, Matthew 5:38 identifies the context as the evil person which is not a Christian. In Matthew 5:39 – 44, same consecutive Context, Christ’s Love your enemies He Says to Emulate the Father who makes the sun or rain on the “good/just” and “evil/just” implying being kind and doing good to both the Christian and non-Christian again in verses below (‘not’ opinions of men) so directly even:
“… 38“You have heard that it was said, ‘An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth.’ [Deuteronomy 19:21 ] 39BUT I TELL YOU NOT to RESIST an EVIL PERSON. But whoever slaps you on your right cheek, turn the other to him also. 40If anyone wants to sue you and take away your tunic, let him have your cloak also. 41And whoever compels you to go one mile, go with him two. 42Give to him who asks you, and from him who wants to borrow from you do not turn away. 43“You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall love your neighbor and HATE YOUR ENEMY.’ 44[o]BUT I SAY TO YOU, LOVE YOUR ENEMIES, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you, 45that you may be SONS OF YOUR FATHER in heaven; for He makes His sun rise on the EVIL AND ON THE GOOD, and sends rain on the JUST AND ON THE UNJUST. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 5:38 – 45, NKJV)
If the Father is so Amazingly “Unaffected by Evil” at all like this, are we really “Doing the Will of the Father” Likewise as “Christ Commanded” in Verses above (so it’s not an option) but a must to be what He Calls the Greatest Creation ever named the “SONS OF YOUR FATHER IN HEAVEN”?
Which Type of “Doing Good” is Christ Commanding toward Enemies too? The Charity Doctrine Acts including even “Lending” (or Giving Money) to them too, Verses:
“… 30GIVE TO EVERYONE WHO ASKS OF YOU. And from him who takes away your goods DO NOT ASK THEM BACK. 31And just as you want men to do to you, you also do to them likewise. 32“But IF YOU LOVE THOSE WHO LOVE YOU, WHAT CREDIT IS THAT TO YOU? For even sinners love those who love them. 33And IF YOU DO GOOD TO THOSE WHO DO GOOD TO YOU, WHAT CREDIT IS THAT TO YOU? For even sinners do the same. 34And if YOU LEND to those from whom you HOPE TO RECEIVE BACK, what credit is that to you? For even sinners lend to sinners to receive as much back. 35But LOVE YOUR ENEMIES, DO GOOD, AND LEND, [h]HOPING FOR NOTHING IN RETURN; and your REWARD WILL BE GREAT, and YOU WILL BE SONS OF THE MOST HIGH. For He is KIND to the UNTHANKFUL AND EVIL. 36Therefore be merciful, just as your Father also is merciful. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 6:27 – 36, NKJV)
Safe Route: If Blessed St. Augustine and Blessed John Calvin can preach it like this and be saved, so can we as even the Bible Verses especially Revelation 19:8 Teaches this so clearly.
Please remember that the Sign of the Holy Spirit is how much we can keep (obey) His New Testament Commands:
“… 13HOLD FAST The PATTERN OF SOUND WORDS which you have heard from me, in faith and love which are in Christ Jesus. 14That good thing which was committed to you, KEEP BY THE HOLY SPIRIT who dwells in us. …” (2 Timothy 1:13 – 14, NKJV)
Peace to you
On Doing Good – Faith or Works or Both?
Kahlil Gibran’s quote in Image correlates well with this Ancient Bible Verse:
“… I know that nothing is better for them than to rejoice, and TO DO GOOD IN THEIR LIVES, …” (Ecclesiastes 3:12, NKJV)
Note: Kahlil Gibran was a unique Christian with a good hand at writing.
1) Faith Pleases God
“… But WITHOUT FAITH it is IMPOSSIBLE TO PLEASE HIM, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him. ….” (Hebrews 11:6, NKJV)
2) Faith and Works Pleases God Best
But to Please God Further or become “Well Pleasing” till it’s equivalent to an “Aroma of Worship”, the Bible Teaches this GIVING toward a Church:
“… Indeed I have all and abound. I am full, HAVING RECEIVED from Epaphroditus THE THINGS SENT FROM YOU, a SWEET-SMELLING AROMA, an ACCEPTABLE SACRIFICE WELL PLEASING TO GOD. …” (Philippians 4:18, NKJV)
What we need to remember is that “Good Works” happen not because of our will (which is selfish, sinful and deceitful) but rather because those are the times we connect with “God Who Works these Good Works in us”, Verse:
“… for it is GOD WHO WORKS IN YOU BOTH TO WILL AND TO DO FOR HIS GOOD PLEASURE. …” (Philippians 2:13, NKJV)
Yes, He Works the “Good Works Done by Unbelievers” too, example:
“… 1“THUS SAYS THE LORD TO HIS ANOINTED,
TO CYRUS, WHOSE RIGHT HAND I HAVE [A]HELD—
To subdue nations before him
And loose the armor of kings,
To open before him the double doors,
So that the gates will not be shut: … I have even called you by your name;
I HAVE NAMED YOU, THOUGH YOU HAVE NOT KNOWN ME.
5I am the Lord, and there is no other;
THERE IS NO GOD BESIDES ME.
I WILL GIRD YOU, THOUGH YOU HAVE NOT KNOWN ME,
6That they may know from the rising of the sun to its setting
That THERE IS NONE BESIDES ME. …” (Isaiah 45:1, 4 – 6, NKJV)
Note: Please note that King Cyrus of Persia was used by God to Do His Will even though King Cyrus does NOT KNOW the True God at all as it’s clearly Written in these Verses. Even after being Used mightily by God, King Cyrus didn’t become Jewish according to history. Mysterious indeed.
Yes “All Good Works” are from “God the Father of Lights” and it happens whenever someone is chosen by Him to “Do Good Works” and this is why we are careful to Preach the Charity Doctrine to encourage men to listen to God and “Do Good Works”, Verse:
“… EVERY GOOD GIFT and EVERY PERFECT GIFT is from above, and COMES DOWN FROM THE FATHER OF LIGHTS, with whom there is no variation or shadow of turning. …” (James 1:17, NKJV)
Some good deeds are fake indeed as Christ Remarked regarding the Pharisees but still Promised them some reward (Matthew 6:1, 2 Corinthians 11:14 – 16) but let’s skip the Scrutinizing Part to God Alone and focus on encouraging Good Works toward your fellow men.
Peace to you
Possible Judgment Day Hope? – Only God Knows
Question
How do we interpret John 3:36 :”He who is believing in the Son, hath life age-during; and he who is not believing the Son, shall not see life, but the wrath of God doth remain upon him.” YLT
Reply
They miss the 1000 years Millennial Reign of Christ
“… “The sons of this age marry and are given in marriage. 35But THOSE who are COUNTED WORTHY to ATTAIN THAT AGE*, and the RESURRECTION from the dead, neither marry nor are given in marriage; 36nor can they die anymore, for they are EQUAL TO THE ANGELS and are SONS OF GOD, being sons of the resurrection. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 20:35 – 36, NKJV)
*The Word translated as “AGE” here is the Noun AEON (Aion) in Original Koine Greek whose adjective is “Aeonian” (or literally age-during) in the passages speaking of “Zoe Aeonian” which is commonly translated as “Eternal Life” or “Age-Abiding Life” or “Age-During Life” which can refer to Life in that particular Aeon/Age. In Hebrew the equivalent is “Olam” as in “Olam Ha-ba” or the “Age to Come” or “Aeon to Come” sometimes spoken as the “World to come” in Jewish Messianic Prophecies too.
In Verses above, Christ is Talking about this “First Resurrection” in the Future:
“… 5But the rest of the dead did not live again until the thousand years were finished. This is the first resurrection. 6Blessed and holy is he who has part in the first resurrection. Over such the second death has no power, but they shall be priests of God and of Christ, and shall reign with Him a thousand years. …” (Revelation 20:5 – 6, NKJV)
Comment: Revelation 20:4 – 6’s First Resurrection cannot refer to the Matthew 27:52 – 53 because the Book of Revelation was Written after 70 AD (around 80+ or 90AD) and was a Book of Prophecy (Revelation 22:7, Revelation 1:3) pointing to future events after that which is clearly after 70 AD and definitely after about 33AD’s Christ Resurrection described in Matthew 27:52 – 53.
The Isaiah Prophecy below may be telling of “being Saved” on “Judgment Day Prophecy” as God Declares “Look to Me and be Saved!” at that same time when they “bow their knees and declare Jesus is Lord” (Philippians 2: in Verses below:
“… Who has declared this from ancient time?
Who has told it from that time?
Have not I, the Lord?
And there is no other God besides Me,
A just God and a Savior;
There is none besides Me.
22“LOOK TO ME and BE SAVED,
All you ends of the earth!
For I am God, and there is no other.
23I have sworn by Myself;
The word has gone out of My mouth in righteousness,
And shall not return,
That to Me EVERY KNEE SHALL BOW,
EVERY TONGUE SHALL TAKE AN OATH. …” (Isaiah 45:21 – 23, NKJV)
“… 9Therefore God also has highly exalted Him and given Him the name which is above every name, 10that at the name of Jesus EVERY KNEE SHOULD BOW, of those in heaven, and of those on earth, and of those under the earth, 11and that EVERY TONGUE SHOULD CONFESS that JESUS CHRIST IS LORD, to the glory of God the Father. …” (Philippians 2:9 – 11, NKJV)
These Bible Verses below is a Famous Example of where God Pours out “All His Fierce Wrath” which in the end produces some/all of the recipients to be “converted” to Him echoing such a Possible Hope because He Only Pours All His Wrath as Described below on Judgment Day:
“… 8“Therefore wait for Me,” says the Lord,
“Until the day I rise up [d]for plunder;
My determination is to GATHER THE NATIONS
To My assembly of kingdoms, To pour on them My indignation,
ALL MY FIERCE ANGER;
All the earth shall be devoured
With the fire of My jealousy.
9“For then I WILL RESTORE TO THE PEOPLES a PURE [E]LANGUAGE,
That THEY ALL MAY CALL ON THE NAME of the LORD, To SERVE HIM WITH ONE ACCORD. …” (Zephaniah 3:8 – 9, NKJV)
Comment: Please take note that the Bible’s Zephaniah 3:8 – 10’s “Judgment Day” Salvation for some or all is clear in Verses above. Also, even if God Saves one soul on Judgment Day as per Zephaniah 3:8 – 10 points, it is possible then that He Can Save others even after the Lake of Fire Judgment. The Mysterious Book of 1Enoch may point to such a hope on Judgment Day for some as well, to quote:
It’s possible that some may believe when they see on Judgment Day and be saved but not get any great rewards at all as per this non-canonical but interesting Book of 1Enoch quote:
“… 1 And in those days a change shall take place for the holy and elect, And the light of days shall abide upon them, And glory and honour shall turn to the holy, 2 ON THE DAY OF AFFLICTION on which evil shall have been treasured up against the sinners.And the righteous shall be victorious in the name of the Lord of Spirits: And HE WILL CAUSE THE OTHERS TO WITNESS (this) THAT THEY MAY REPENT And FORGO THE WORKS OF THEIR HANDS. 3 They shall have NO HONOUR through the name of the Lord of Spirits, YET THROUGH HIS NAME SHALL THEY BE SAVED [Joel 2:32, Romans 10:13, Matthew 12:21], And THE LORD OF SPIRITS WILL HAVE COMPASSION ON THEM, For His compassion is great. 4 And He is righteous also in His judgement, And in the presence of His glory unrighteousness also shall not maintain itself: At HIS JUDGEMENT THE UNREPENTANT SHALL PERISH before Him. 5 And FROM HENCEFORTH I will have NO MERCY on them, saith the Lord of Spirits. …” (Book of Enoch, Chapter 50)
Translation Source: http://wesley.nnu.edu/index.php?id=2126
Please notice Carefully that this “Salvation with no honour” (hence not a Christian Salvation but possibly unbelievers or fallen Christians) happening on the “Day of Affliction” (Judgment Day) as mentioned in Quote above may refer to the “Saved by fire” case (1 Corinthians 3:13 – 15) after they have “their part” in the Lake of Fire first (Revelation 20:11 – 15).
Do these Verses and quotes mean that or not? God Alone Knows. Let’s see on Judgment Day.
Peace to you
Family Time Verse in the Bible
0) Is the Quote in Image Biblical?
“… … 7Is it not to SHARE YOUR BREAD with the HUNGRY,
And that you bring to your house THE POOR who are cast out;
When you see THE NAKED, that you cover him,
And not hide yourself from YOUR OWN FLESH?
8Then YOUR LIGHT shall break forth like the MORNING,
YOUR HEALING shall spring forth speedily,
And your righteousness shall go before you;
The glory of the Lord shall be your rear guard.
9Then you shall call, and the Lord will answer;
You shall cry, and He will say, ‘Here I am.’ …” (Isaiah 58:7 – 9, NKJV)
Comment: The phrase “… And not hide yourself from YOUR OWN FLESH? …” in Verses above proves that no one should keep away from his blood family or if not “his religious fasting & prayer” is ignored by God as the Context of these Verses is referring to this question “… ‘Why have WE FASTED,’ they say, ‘and YOU HAVE NOT SEEN? Why have WE AFFLICTED OUR SOULS, and YOU TAKE NO NOTICE?’ …” (Isaiah 58:3, NKJV) and the above was God’s Replies.
Example: If you already invited your blood family to live with you but they refuse, you cannot force them and so you have done your part but it’s them who is contradicting this Verse.
1) Christ Was Asked why He Didn’t Spend Time with Mother or Brothers, He Replied this:
“… 46While He was still talking to the multitudes, behold, His mother and brothers stood outside, seeking to speak with Him. 47Then one said to Him, “Look, Your mother and Your brothers are standing outside, seeking to speak with You.” 48But He answered and said to the one who told Him, “Who is My mother and who are My brothers?” 49And He stretched out His hand toward His disciples and said, “Here are My mother and My brothers! 50For whoever does the will of My Father in heaven is My brother and sister and mother.” …” (Matthew 12: 46 – 50, NKJV)
Comment: So a True Christian must find time to fellowship with other Christians in some way at some time in his routine life as this is his “real” Family which is not by blood but by the Will of God in Faith.
Note: Remember, you could have been born with someone else and so blood relation is just a basic to help us learn how to love but we must grow beyond that.
2) Hostile Families
Some family don’t want to spend time with you. If you already invite them to stay with you or be gathered but they refuse, you are “not” responsible for it anymore doing your part already:
“… . 16You will be betrayed even by parents and brothers, relatives and friends; and they will put some of you to death. 17And you will be hated by all for My name’s sake. 18But not a hair of your head shall be lost. 19By your patience possess your souls. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 21: 16 – 19, NKJV)
“…34“Do not think that I came to bring peace on earth. I did not come to bring peace but a sword. 35For I have come to ‘set[j] a man against his father, a daughter against her mother, and a daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law’; 36and ‘a man’s enemies will be those of his own household.’ 37He who loves father or mother more than Me is not worthy of Me. And he who loves son or daughter more than Me is not worthy of Me. 38And he who does not take his cross and follow after Me is not worthy of Me. 39He who finds his life will lose it, and he who loses his life for My sake will find it. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 10:34 – 39, NKJV)
Comments:
- i) Please notice that the Verses above Speak of the “Sword” not as ‘killing family or others’ but only referring to keeping away or being rejected by family for the “Gospel’s Sake”/
- ii) For example if you keep away from a family member because they didn’t fulfill some prosperity greed desire of ours, then this Verse doesn’t apply in context. Please always ask: Which Verse am I fulfilling by rejecting them (if it happens)?
iii) For example if you uphold a Bible Verse or more accurately Christ’s Direct Command and that’s why you are rejected by a family who cannot accept it due to selfishness or unbelief, then you are fulfilling the Verse above. It’s obvious they will keep away from you to cover their mistakes and uphold their pride and so you cannot spend time with them but it’s okay as the Verse below may apply in Context too as you “… have to leave them for the Gospel ..” be it “… father, mother, brother, sister etc. …” but gain the “Hundredfold” Reward:
(please notice the Word “HUNDREDFOLD” carefully in Matthew 19:29 below):
“… 27Then Peter answered and said to Him, “See, we have LEFT ALL and FOLLOWED YOU. Therefore what shall we have?” 28So Jesus said to them, “Assuredly I say to you, that in the REGENERATION, when the Son of Man sits on the throne of His glory, you who have followed Me will also sit on twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel. 29And EVERYONE who has LEFT HOUSES or BROTHERS or SISTERS or FATHER or MOTHER or WIFE or CHILDREN or LANDS, for MY NAME’S SAKE, shall RECEIVE a HUNDREDFOLD, and INHERIT ETERNAL LIFE. 30But MANY who are FIRST will be LAST, and the LAST FIRST.” (Matthew 19:27 – 30, NKJV)
Note: Leaving God for say marrying an “unbeliever” (unless they repent and believe in the Gospel) is not considered fulfilling these Bible Verses but a betrayal as their loyalty is not to Christ. What God Says in Verses matters and not some lying manipulative words of unbelievers manipulating you which is worth ‘nothing’ in the end when compared against God’s Holy Word.
Warning: Just like leaving family for Christ merits the highest “Hundredfold” Reward (Matthew 19:29, Matthew 13:8) , so leaving Christ to say make a family with an unrepentant unbeliever (unless they repent) must be among the worse kind of betrayal and ugliness, isn’t it?
Highest Perspective: God Made us not family and so let our loyalty be to God First and God Only.
Conclusion
Missing any one of the Verses above may not make a True Man of God.
Peace to you
God Said Vs man said – Financial Planning for Family
Firstly, why is this Important?
- Not knowing and not obeying these Bible Verses causes almost the most amount of sufferings in this world.
- God’s Expectations are Perfect and so these Verses describe the perfect family man or woman respectively. Please don’t use it to judge those who fall short of it as showing Mercy on one’s inability is better than condemning them. Nevertheless, truth is still truth and as they say, don’t lower the standards of God’s Words to please men.
iii. People generally skip or hate these Verses because they cannot fulfill them. Also, no point in fulfilling things which are “not” written in the Bible for the family too.
- This is not a “finding fault” post but one to demonstrate the common mistakes people make due to not obeying Bible Verses and cause their own children or family to suffer. You cannot eliminate such suffering unless you know how it happens. Also by ignoring such verses and following their opinions, many continue to create such suffering toward their own children even (so much for love there).
- Vicious Cycle
This is the “most dangerous” part: The children that usually accept such suffering as normal or okay are the “same ones” who marry and plan to have children and hope to be appreciated even if they can’t provide properly all in the name of family love (so much for love again). Such ones do not preach nor believe in these Verses because they know that they cannot fulfill it but still want to marry to have children and all that and so do their “own desire” and repeat this vicious cycle. Some of them may make it economically later and so think they can fulfill these Verses later. Truth is, the end doesn’t justify the means and some fail causing these sufferings to repeat in the next generation. “… Obedience (to Bible Verses, “God’s Word”) is better than Sacrifice …” (1 Samuel 15:22) and so by not marrying and not having any children one never made anyone suffer for their own desire in this which is certainly best.
Let’s Begin.
Question
man said: Just marry and have children as that’s your right. The rest can be thought about later.
God Says (please note that each claim is made with “Bible Verses” and not my opinion nor any vain cultural opinions):
- i) Only marry if you have Wealth already or are able to do this to be a “Good Man”
“… A GOOD MAN leaves an INHERITANCE to his children’s children, …” (Proverbs 13:22, NKJV)
Example: Even the Promised child (only one, Isaac) toward Blessed Abraham was only given when he was super rich and old even. Simply having children against these Verses is not God’s Will but out of choice unless God Told you to have kids. That’s between you and God if you claim so but it’s usually a Choice according to Scripture and so a wise choice is required.
- ii) Does it apply in the New Testament? Yes, Verse:
“… For the CHILDREN OUGHT NOT TO LAY UP FOR THE PARENTS, BUT THE PARENTS FOR THE CHILDREN. …” (2 Corinthians 12:14, NKJV)
iii) Better not to marry to fulfill Gospel Commands than to suffer to please one’s spouse
“… 28 But even if you do marry, you have not sinned; and if a virgin marries, she has not sinned. Nevertheless such will have TROUBLE IN THE FLESH, but I WOULD SPARE YOU. … 32But I want you to be without care. He who is UNMARRIED CARES FOR THE THINGS OF THE LORD—how he may PLEASE THE LORD. 33But HE WHO IS MARRIED CARES about the THINGS OF THE WORLD—how he may PLEASE HIS WIFE. … 38So then he who GIVES HER IN MARRIAGE DOES WELL, but he WHO DOES NOT GIVE HER IN MARRIAGE DOES BETTER. …” (1 Corinthians 7:28, 32 – 33, 38, NKJV)
Example: Just because a person suffers working hard to provide for your family which you gave birthed to by your choice doesn’t prove that you’re a necessarily good man (as no Verse Says this). It’s like this: you decided to have so many children and then you suffer to provide for them, isn’t that fair deal to you? In other words, if you had one kid only you may have caused less suffering and a better providence. Also, having kids whilst not having wealth is the exact irresponsible behaviour that the world teaches against Proverbs 13:22 and 2 Corinthians 12:14 too. So such suffering for one’s own fault for choosing to have family but not able to provide may not account for much, Verse:
“… For what credit is it if, WHEN YOU ARE BEATEN FOR YOUR FAULTS, YOU TAKE IT PATIENTLY? But when YOU DO GOOD AND SUFFER, if you take it patiently, this is commendable before God …” (1 Peter 3:13 – 17, NKJV)
Comment: Example of “Good” can be when you practice the Charity Doctrine and help some family which is suffering financially even though it’s not your family nor your mistake to simply say have more kids than one can afford.
- iv) Is it Wrong to get financial help?
There are some cases where the bread winner becomes immobilized to work due to injury, accident, sickness or other foreseen mishap which cases deserve most help or priority first. Such cases is not their bad family planning. Also nothing wrong in receiving help in old age when one is unable to work or sick or equivalent. But better to live one’s younger age helping others first before receiving that. Example “New Testament” Verse below where the “Church Money” is used to help such a “Widow” aged “60 onward” priorities those who have done the “Charity Doctrine” lifestyle of “relieving (helping) the afflicted (e.g. those suffering financially)”, “lodged strangers” (allowed others to stay at their home) or other “good works” too:
“… 9Do not let a widow under sixty years old be taken into the number, and not unless she has been the wife of one man, 10WELL REPORTED FOR GOOD WORKS: if she has BROUGHT UP CHILDREN, if SHE HAS LODGED STRANGERS, if she has washed the saints’ feet, if she has RELIEVED THE AFFLICTED, IF SHE HAS DILIGENTLY FOLLOWED EVERY GOOD WORK. 11But [c]refuse the younger widows; for when they have begun to grow wanton against Christ, they desire to marry, 12having condemnation because they have cast off their first [d]faith. …” (1 Timothy 5:9 – 12, NKJV)
- v) Can God use an “unmarried man” (e.g. those who never married before or are widows/widower currently remaining unmarried) to teach about “marriage”? Yes, Apostle St. Paul was used by God to do it, Verses:
“… 7For I WISH THAT ALL MEN WERE EVEN as I MYSELF. But each one has his own gift from God, one in this manner and another in that. 8But I say to the UNMARRIED AND TO THE WIDOWS: IT IS GOOD FOR THEM IF THEY REMAIN EVEN AS I AM; 9but if they cannot exercise self-control, let them marry. For it is better to marry than to burn with passion. …” (1 Corinthians 7:7 – 9, NKJV)
- vi) Is there any expectations for Children to be say Doctor, Engineers etc.?
Not at all (“no” Verse Says that). Children are not even expected to save money to take care of parents as the Bible Verses with the Jewish context itself proves that say Abraham provided wealth for Isaac etc. and they expanded it sometimes but used these wealth to take care of parents in return, Verses:
“… HOUSES AND RICHES are an INHERITANCE FROM FATHERS, But a prudent wife is from the LORD …” (Proverbs 19:14, NKJV)
“…. For the CHILDREN OUGHT NOT TO LAY UP FOR THE PARENTS, BUT THE PARENTS FOR THE CHILDREN. …” (2 Corinthians 12:14, NKJV)
Christ Spoke of a “Voluntary Giving” toward “parents” by children in verses below:
“… [9He said to them,] “All too well you [e]REJECT THE COMMANDMENT OF GOD, THAT YOU MAY KEEP YOUR TRADITION. 10For Moses said, ‘HONOR YOUR FATHER AND YOUR MOTHER’ (Exodus 20:12); and, ‘He who curses father or mother, let him be put to death.’ 11But you say, ‘If a man says to his father or mother, “Whatever profit you might have received from me is CORBAN”—’ (THAT IS, A GIFT TO GOD), 12then you NO LONGER LET HIM DO ANYTHING FOR HIS FATHER OR HIS MOTHER, 13MAKING THE WORD OF GOD OF NO EFFECT THROUGH YOUR TRADITION which you have handed down. And many such things you do.” …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 7:9 – 13, NKJV)
So before Giving any money to “Church/Ministry/Poor” please make sure you have given for “Parent’s needs first” if they don’t have as per the Command in these Verses by CHRIST HIMSELF.
vii) Prudent Wife
For those intending to marry, the Bible Speaks of a Prudent Wife who is “from the LORD” (and hence cannot be an unbeliever who doesn’t Repent nor obeys these Bible Verses):
“… , But a PRUDENT WIFE IS FROM THE LORD …” (Proverbs 19:14, NKJV)
The Bible Specifically Describes a Prudent Wife as follows and so there’s “no” prudent wife to be found against these Verses:
Comment: The Problem with human beings is that they don’t want to admit Biblical Truths. They want to exalt their “flesh”. Example: they want to say that their “family” or say “wife” is the best etc. for their own pride whilst she might not even Fulfill half the Virtues of a “Prudent Wife” even as per Verses below (also Written by God’s Wisdom in King Solomon), examples:
- A Prudent Wife doesn’t take her husband’s money at all and chooses to work by her own will/choice
“… 13She seeks wool and flax,
And WILLINGLY WORKS with her hands.
14She is like the merchant ships,
She brings her food from afar. …” (Proverbs 31:13 – 15, NKJV)
- A Prudent Wife provides from her “own work” working from early morning to late night toward her family
“… 15She also RISES WHILE IT IS YET NIGHT,
And PROVIDES FOOD FOR HER HOUSEHOLD,
And a portion for her maidservants.
16She considers a field and buys it;
From [E]HER PROFITS she plants a vineyard.
17She girds herself with strength,
And strengthens her arms.
18She perceives that her merchandise is good,
And her LAMP DOES NOT GO OUT BY NIGHT.
19She stretches out HER HANDS TO THE DISTAFF,
And HER HAND HOLDS THE SPINDLE. …” (Proverbs 31:15 – 19, NKJV)
- A Prudent Wife doesn’t just provide for her family but also for the Poor at the same time practising the Charity Doctrine
“… 20She EXTENDS HER HAND TO THE POOR, Yes, she REACHES OUT HER HANDS TO THE NEEDY.21She is not afraid of snow for her household, For all her household is clothed with scarlet. …” (Proverbs 31:20 – 21, NKJV)
- A Prudent Wife has a Wise Husband who is Renown among the Elders of the Land
“… 23HER HUSBAND IS KNOWN in the GATES,
When HE SITS AMONG THE ELDERS of the LAND. …” (Proverbs 31:23, NKJV)
- A Prudent Wife does business and earns
“… 24She makes linen garments and SELLS THEM,
And supplies sashes for the merchants.
25Strength and honor are her clothing;
She shall rejoice in time to come. …” (Proverbs 31:24 – 25, NKJV)
- A Prudent Wife is not proud or a show off but despite earning so much and doing so much she is soooo KIND (humble) and doesn’t sit in the house and eat the “bread of idleness” (which is eating from not working/not doing any good works or equivalent like a ‘princess mentality of I’m pretty & I deserve it’)
“… 26She opens her mouth with wisdom,
And on her tongue is the LAW OF KINDNESS.
27She watches over the ways of her household,
And DOES NOT EAT THE BREAD OF IDLENESS. …”. (Proverbs 31:26 – 27, NKJV)
- Respect is Earned and no wonder a woman like that which is “not” trying to be some “spiritual leader” coveting What is not her role Scripturally but rather focuses on the “work to serve” (humility brings respect and honour in the sight of God) and so both her husband and children “Praise” her as she is better than other women (as the Bible Compares so we ought to compare too by merit as follows)
“… 28Her CHILDREN rise up and call her BLESSED;
Her HUSBAND also, and he PRAISES her:
29“Many daughters have done well,
But YOU EXCEL THEM ALL.” …” (Proverbs 31:28 – 29, NKJV)
- A Prudent Wife may not be beautiful physically at all but God Says to judge a woman’s worth by HER WORK (which also proves whether she fears God or not) as per ending Verses below from this chapter
“… 30Charm is deceitful and beauty is passing, But a WOMAN WHO FEARS THE LORD, she shall be praised. 31Give her of the fruit of her hands, And let HER OWN WORKS PRAISE HER In the gates. …” (Proverbs 31:30 – 31, NKJV)
- Can you find her? To such a perfect God-Fearing woman (a Prudent/Virtuous wife) only the start of this Chapter Calls her as follows deservingly by “merit” and “her good works” which proves that she “abides in the fear of the Lord” as follows:
“… 10WHO[C] CAN FIND A [D]VIRTUOUS WIFE?
For HER WORTH IS FAR ABOVE RUBIES.
11The heart of her husband safely trusts her;
So he will have no lack of gain.
12She does him good and not evil
All the days of her life. …” (Proverbs 31:10 – 12, NKJV)
In short, if we don’t fulfill these Verses, it’s not talking about us. We should not falsely flatter wrongly using the “Word of God” just to gratify the human “pride/flesh” just because it’s our “mother/family/wife” etc. unless these are Fulfilled.
Conclusion
If we Obeyed just these Verses on Family Planning according to these Bible Verses,
- There would be lesser population in the World with plenty of resources and so everyone would get a bounty of abundance.
- The unmarried will take care of each other as God’s Word Commands that toward the needy or old as the Churches of old did that.
- We won’t have starving and suffering children.
- Breaking God’s Will Found in Verses always causes “suffering”.
- Some just want to accept or appreciate lower standards instead of God’s Will because they know that they cannot provide like that and so they hate the Verses.
- If we didn’t obey these Verses, then why Blame God for the Physical Sufferings in this world which are primarily due to breaking these Verses?
Last but not least, people bear their own sins and if you warn them “in words only” according to Bible Verses to be responsible, your work is done, Verses:
“… When I say to the wicked, ‘O wicked man, you shall surely die!’ and you do not speak to warn the wicked from his way, that wicked man shall die in his iniquity; BUT HIS BLOOD I WILL REQUIRE AT YOUR HAND. …” (Ezekiel 33:8, NKJV)
“… Nevertheless if you warn the wicked to turn from his way, and he does not turn from his way, he shall die in his iniquity; but YOU HAVE DELIVERED YOUR SOUL. …” (Ezekiel 33:9, NKJV)
“… 26Therefore I testify to you this day that I am innocent[e] of the blood of all men. 27For I have NOT [F]SHUNNED TO DECLARE TO YOU THE WHOLE COUNSEL OF GOD. …” (Acts 20:26 – 27, NKJV)
Please don’t be deceived against these “Bible Verses”.
Peace to you
Let us not Forget God
Simple Logic: People Blame God for their own decisions and mistakes. Verse:
“… People ruin their lives by their own foolishness and then are angry at the LORD. …” (Proverbs 19:3, NLT)
Simple Question: Did God Ask you to do it? If not, why blame Him for the Situation?
Example: The Verse below puts a curse for those who ‘put woman first in their heart before God’ by the sign that they will marry a woman whose heart is a “trap” (as such men will be suffering to get her attention becoming toys in her hands all his life of hurt & being used like that in chains to fulfill her “wants”) which they cannot utter (lest they look foolish) so they cover up by saying they have the best wife but inwardly suffer for it daily because she is “not” Fulfilling most of the Verses above for a True Prudent Wife which is a state “worse than death” according to Verse below (so please don’t choose anyone who doesn’t fit the Bible Verses if you want to be married):
“… I find MORE BITTER THAN DEATH the WOMAN WHO IS A SNARE, WHOSE HEART IS A TRAP and whose HANDS ARE CHAINS. The Man Who Pleases GOD will ESCAPE HER, BUT THE SINNER SHE WILL ENSNARE. … while I was still searching but not finding— I FOUND ONE UPRIGHT MAN AMONG A THOUSAND, BUT NOT ONE UPRIGHT WOMAN AMONG THEM ALL. …” (Ecclesiastes 7:26, 28, NIV)
Peace to you
Where is Christ Found?
In “His Commands” especially “Bible Verses” which are “Directly from Him” or through the Various Prophets in Scripture and most importantly in the “New Testament Commands/Verses“. Verse:
“… JESUS ANSWERED and said to him, “If anyone loves Me, he will keep My word; and My Father will love him, and We will come to him and make Our home with him. …” (John 14:23, NKJV)
Peace to you
Blessed Man of God – Watchman Nee – but he was against Speaking in Tongues in some ways
Source Post (below, please see comments for more of his quotes):
https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=10160942251372784&id=651792783
One of the thing that stands out about his faith is that he “follows New Testament Verses as it is Written” (example quotes of his are in the comments).
Note: For those who don’t know him, there’s no greater name in Chinese Christianity than Blessed Watchman Nee among the original Protestants excluding the modern prosperity preachers who may not have been approved by Watchman Nee if we compare the strictness of theology in his Writings. An example on Speaking in Tongues Sermon is in the end of this Write Up.
To quote (about him):
“… The great Chinese theologian Watchman Nee was framed by the communist regime in China in the 1950’s and died in prison. The accusations were so well framed that even Christians blacklisted Nee’s church. Nee never defended himself and never spoke a word in his defence. Years later the real truth was revealed and he was vindicated and Christians in China celebrated him. Nee’s books have influenced millions around the world till date. Nee was a true follower of Christ who conducted himself like ChrIst himself who never defended Himself during His own trial…”
Source:
https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=10159825528293694&id=787088693
An Interesting Stance regarding Speaking in Tongues, this is what Watchman Nee wrote:
“… Let us look at wonders. I personally am not antagonistic to them. I have seen with my own eyes cases of instantaneous divine healing. Some people profess they can heal diseases. We do not oppose healing, we only contend with erroneous ways of healing. Some ask me IF I OPPOSE SPEAKING IN TONGUES. CERTAINLY NOT, though I do question tongues which are obtained through faulty means. As to visions and dreams, I too have seen great light. We acknowledge that there are such things in the Bible. But I do resist visions and dreams which are obtained through unlawful means. … Let us TALK ABOUT THE BAPTISM IN THE HOLY SPIRIT. When I was in Shantung this time, I too told people to seek for it. Nevertheless, I DO NOT APPROVE OF THE SHUTTING in of many people into a small room for SEVERAL DAYS’ FASTING, PRAYING, and CHORUS SINGING. Should people do such a thing, it will not take too long for them to have their BRAIN DAZED, THE WILL TO BE TURNED PASSIVE, AND THEIR LIPS TO BE MADE TO UTTER STRANGE AND INCOHERENT SOUNDS OR TONGUES. And in this way shall their latent power be released. In a meeting for SEEKING SPIRIT-BAPTISM, PEOPLE WILL KEEP SHOUTING HALLELUJAH FOR THOUSANDS OF TIMES.EVENTUALLY, THEIR BRAIN WILL GROW DULL, THEIR MIND BECOMES PARALYZED, and THEY BEGIN TO SEE VISIONS. HOW CAN YOU CONSIDER THIS AS SPIRIT-BAPTISM? It is but soul-baptism. What they receive is NOT THE POWER OF THE HOLY SPIRIT; it is instead soul force, the manifestation of the latent power of the soul. IT COMES FROM HUMAN EXERCISE, NOT FROM THE ENDUEMENT OF GOD. This is NOT THE PROPER WAY for SEEKING THE BAPTISM IN THE HOLY SPIRIT. Yet people are still coaching others in this way, a way they learn not at God’s instruction but by their own past experiences. Some may ask, after reading this, “According to what you say, is it true that there are no real miracles?” Of course there are. We give thanks to God for all the miracles which come from Him. Nonetheless, we need to discern that if a miracle does not come from God, it is performed by the latent psychical power of man. When I was in Shantung I heard of a woman, palsied for many years, being completely healed. If her healing was truly of God, I would thank Him for her. …” – Blessed Watchman Nee (The Christian and Psychic Force)
Source:
http://articles.ochristian.com/article1908.shtml
Did Watchman Nee commit the Unforgivable Blasphemy of the Holy Spirit in his writing above or are the modern Pentecostal Churches committing a Blasphemy of the Holy Spirit by doing so or is God Lenient toward either way? Only God Knows.
Question for Pentecostals who Speak in Tongues? Do they claim that Watchman Nee has committed the Blasphemy of the Holy Spirit in his writings above? Please ask them.
Personally, I don’t comment either way to “not” commit the Unforgivable Blasphemy of the Holy Spirit either way. What I know is, I try to follow and teach the Safe Route Scripturally which doesn’t require this gift at all for salvation, example Verse below which clearly implies that “not all Christians Speak in Tongues”:
“… 27Now you are the body of Christ, and members individually. 28And God has appointed these in the church: first apostles, second prophets, third teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of healings, helps, administrations, varieties of tongues. 29Are all apostles? Are all prophets? Are all teachers? Are ALL WORKERS OF MIRACLES? 30DO ALL HAVE GIFTS OF HEALINGS? DO ALL SPEAK WITH TONGUES? Do all interpret? 31But earnestly desire the [i]best gifts. And YET I SHOW YOU A MORE EXCELLENT WAY. …” (1 Corinthians 12:27 – 30, NKJV)
Watchman Nee believed in literally obeying New Testament Bible Verses as it is Written.
Wise Words by Watchman Nee.
Watchman Nee believed that Christian Women must cover their head when praying as per these Verses (his famous quote on it is in image):
“… 1Imitate me, just as I also imitate Christ. 2Now I praise you, brethren, that you remember me in all things and keep the traditions just as I delivered them to you. 3But I want you to know that the head of every man is Christ, the head of woman is man, and the head of Christ is God. 4Every man praying or prophesying, having his head covered, dishonors his head. 5But every woman who prays or prophesies with her head uncovered dishonors her head, for that is one and the same as if her head were shaved. 6For if a woman is not covered, let her also be shorn. But if it is shameful for a woman to be shorn or shaved, let her be covered. 7For a man indeed ought not to cover his head, since he is the image and glory of God; but woman is the glory of man. 8For man is not from woman, but woman from man. 9Nor was man created for the woman, but woman for the man. 10For this reason the woman ought to have a symbol of authority on her head, because of the angels …” (1 Corinthians 11:1 – 10, NKJV)
Peace to you
Sons of God Mystery – Heirs of the Kingdom are Measured by Sufferings not Prosperity
“New Testament” Bible Verses (“not” opinions of man):
1) Who is a Spirit-Led Christian?
“… 14For as MANY AS ARE LED BY THE SPIRIT OF GOD, THESE ARE SONS OF GOD. 15For you did not receive the spirit of bondage again to fear, but you received the Spirit of adoption by whom we cry out, “Abba,[e] Father.” 16The Spirit Himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God, 17and if children, then heirs—HEIRS OF GOD AND JOINT HEIRS WITH CHRIST, IF INDEED WE SUFFER WITH HIM, that we may also be glorified together. 18For I consider that the SUFFERINGS OF THIS PRESENT TIME are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us. 19For the earnest expectation of the creation eagerly waits for the REVEALING OF THE SONS OF GOD. …” (Romans 8:14 – 19, NKJV)
Please notice carefully the following truths from the above:
- i) Context – What’s the Topic?
“… 14For as MANY AS ARE LED BY THE SPIRIT OF GOD, THESE ARE SONS OF GOD. …”
- ii) Apostle St. Paul is describing those who are “Spirit-Led” as the Context of these Verses and it doesn’t point to any Gifts of the Spirit be it healing or speaking in tongues or anything else but only this: “Suffering”
“… HEIRS OF GOD AND JOINT HEIRS WITH CHRIST, IF INDEED WE SUFFER WITH HIM, that we may also be glorified together. 18For I consider that the SUFFERINGS OF THIS PRESENT TIME are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us. 19For the earnest expectation of the creation eagerly waits for the REVEALING OF THE SONS OF GOD. …”
iii) Did you notice that Christians are “Joint Heirs” only under the “Condition” that they “suffer” for the Gospel? So the “Abundant Life” (John 10:10) is not Prosperity in earth now but as the phrase above Describes it’s “… SUFFERINGS OF THIS PRESENT TIME …” to attain to “Glory” after this life.
- iv) Please allow me to repeat the “Condition” part for a Christian to be a “heir” of the Kingdom and being “Spirit-Led” namely, “… IF INDEED WE SUFFER WITH HIM …” in “… ..HEIRS OF GOD AND JOINT HEIRS WITH CHRIST, IF INDEED WE SUFFER WITH HIM …”. Can you see it as it is Written?
- iv) Please allow me to repeat, “Suffering” not Prosperity defines a True Christian. Did you notice the “Phrase Sons of God” in the Verses above?
2) Apostle St. Paul’s last Sermon also repeated this ‘Same Context of Sufferings’ as a requirement to Enter into the Kingdom of God:
“… strengthening the souls of the disciples, exhorting them to CONTINUE IN THE FAITH, and saying, “We must through MANY TRIBULATIONS enter the kingdom of God.” …” (Acts 14:22, NKJV)
3) Relative Measure
The only Biblical Definition of Contentment is having “food and clothing”.
“… 7For we brought nothing into this world, [d]and it is certain we can carry nothing out. 8And HAVING FOOD AND CLOTHING, WITH THESE WE SHALL BE CONTENT. …” (1 Timothy 6:7 –
Owning anything else is a Bonus and must be used in a life of Sharing and Giving as Apostle St. Paul continues in this same chapter and same letter (same Context) toward “rich Christians” as follows:
“… 17COMMAND THOSE WHO ARE RICH in this present age not to be haughty, nor to trust in uncertain riches but in the living God, who gives us richly all things to enjoy. 18Let THEM DO GOOD, that they be RICH IN GOOD WORKS, READY TO GIVE, WILLING TO SHARE, 19storing up for themselves a good foundation for the time to come, that THEY MAY LAY HOLD ON ETERNAL LIFE. …” (1 Timothy 6:17 – 19, NKJV)
Comment: A righteous man only takes what he “needs” (not his wants) and shares the rest with others as many Verses Testify as we have seen. If a righteous person keeps money, he doesn’t enjoy them with prosperity but keeps it to share to his family’s needs (not wants) and others’ needs when the time comes as even the cases of say Blessed Patriarch Abraham or Blessed Job showed. No verse ever stated Blessed Abraham or Blessed Job feasting lavishly though it was their money but the children of Job did such gluttony (Job 1:4 – 5).
So Abraham and Job suffered in relative measure by “not” enjoying their own money but kept it to do good works fulfilling 1 Timothy 6:17 – 19 in Context too when understood properly probably equalling the Poor Widow below too by exercising such “willing suffering” as opposed to “suffering due to no choice or circumstances“:
“… 1And He looked up and saw the rich putting their gifts into the treasury, 2and He saw also a certain poor widow putting in two mites.[a] 3So He said, “TRULY I say to you that this POOR widow has put in MORE THAN ALL; 4for all these out of their abundance have put in offerings [b]for God, but she OUT OF HER POVERTY PUT IN ALL THE LIVELIHOOD THAT SHE HAD.” …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 21:1 – 4, NKJV)
Comment: God doesn’t look at the result nor the amount of giving but your love & relative measure which makes it ‘fair to all’ (as God has no Partiality) as the widow who gave only two coins which probably couldn’t feed any still gave more than all including the Rich’s giving which had tangible effects.
4) Willing Suffering to do Good toward Enemies even —> the certain proof of being the chosen “Sons of God”.
Will of the Father is to be in Action like the Father which Christ describes like this: Yes, Matthew 5:38 identifies the context as the evil person which is not a Christian. In Matthew 5:39 – 44, same consecutive Context, Christ’s Love your enemies He Says to Emulate the Father who makes the sun or rain on the “good/just” and “evil/just” implying being kind and doing good to both the Christian and non-Christian again in verses below (‘not’ opinions of men) so directly even:
“… 38“You have heard that it was said, ‘An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth.’ [Deuteronomy 19:21 ] 39BUT I TELL YOU NOT to RESIST an EVIL PERSON. But whoever slaps you on your right cheek, turn the other to him also. 40If anyone wants to sue you and take away your tunic, let him have your cloak also. 41And whoever compels you to go one mile, go with him two. 42Give to him who asks you, and from him who wants to borrow from you do not turn away. 43“You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall love your neighbor and HATE YOUR ENEMY.’ 44[o]BUT I SAY TO YOU, LOVE YOUR ENEMIES, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you, 45that you may be SONS OF YOUR FATHER in heaven; for He makes His sun rise on the EVIL AND ON THE GOOD, and sends rain on the JUST AND ON THE UNJUST. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Matthew 5:38 – 45, NKJV)
If the Father is so Amazingly “Unaffected by Evil” at all like this, are we really “Doing the Will of the Father” Likewise as “Christ Commanded” in Verses above (so it’s not an option) but a must to be what He Calls the Greatest Creation ever named the “SONS OF YOUR FATHER IN HEAVEN”?
Did you notice that in these Verses CHRIST describes the CHARITY DOCTRINE ACTS to be DONE toward ENEMIES in order to become the HEIRS OF THE KINGDOM as the SONS OF GOD? So are we SONS OF GOD by CHRIST’S COMMAND/DEFINITION?
5) First Christianity Quotes regarding “our place in heaven” depends on “how worthy we see Christ’s Commands and do it”:
- i) St. Papias
“… As the presbyters say, then those who are deemed worthy of an abode in heaven shall go there, others shall enjoy the delights of Paradise, and others shall possess the splendour of the city; for everywhere the Saviour will be seen, according as they shall be worthy who see Him. But that there is this distinction between the habitation of those who produce an hundredfold, and that of those who produce sixty-fold, and that of those who produce thirty-fold; for the first will be taken up into the heavens, the second class will dwell in Paradise, and the last will inhabit the city; and that on this account the Lord said, “In my Father’s house are many mansions:” …” – Blessed St. Papias, Bishop of Hierapolis, an Apostolic Father being the Disciple of the Blessed St. John the Apostle (c. 60 AD – c. 163 AD)
Source: http://www.earlychristianwritings.com/text/papias.html
- ii) St. Ireneus
“… And as the presbyters say, Then those who are deemed worthy of an abode in heaven shall go there, others shall enjoy the delights of paradise, and others shall possess the splendour of the city; for everywhere the Saviour shall be seen according as they who see Him shall be worthy. [They say, moreover], that there is this distinction between the habitation of those who produce an hundred-fold, and that of those who produce sixty-fold, and that of those who produce thirty-fold [Matthew 13:1 – 8, Matthew 13:18 – 23]: for the first will be taken up into the heavens, the second will dwell in paradise, the last will inhabit the city; and that was on this account the Lord declared, “In My Father’s house are many mansions.” For all things belong to God, who supplies all with a suitable dwelling-place; even as His Word says, that a share is allotted to all by the Father, according as each person is or shall be worthy. And this is the couch on which the guests shall recline, having been invited to the wedding. The presbyters, the disciples of the apostles, affirm that this is the gradation and arrangement of those who are saved, and that they advance through steps of this nature… For in the TIMES of the KINGDOM, the righteous man who is upon the earth shall then forget to die. … John, therefore, did distinctly foresee the FIRST “RESURRECTION of the JUST,” [Revelation 20:4 – 6, 1 Thessalonians 4:13 – 18, Luke 14:14] and the inheritance in the kingdom of the earth; and what the prophets have prophesied concerning it harmonize [with his vision, e.g. Isaiah 65:20 – 23, Isaiah 11, Revelation 20:7 – 10]. For the Lord also taught these things, when He promised that He would have the mixed cup new with His disciples in the kingdom. …” – Blessed St. Irenaeous of Lyons, a Hearer of Blessed St. Polycarp who is an Apostolic Father being the Disciple of Blessed St. John who wrote the Book of Revelation (c. 130 AD – c. 202 AD, ‘Against Heresies’, Book 5, Chapter Chapter XXXVI, Points 1 – 2, 3-partial)
Source: http://www.earlychristianwritings.com/text/irenaeus-book5.html
Note: Both these saints have “no” prayers to Virgin Mary nor saints or equivalent and so Protestants may consider them without refrain too.
Conclusion
All these Verses point to only the True Disciples of Christ who will find the Grace to fulfill these Verses in their lives without which one cannot be a disciple of Christ even (so every “True Discipleship in Christianity” must teach and practice this), to quote:
“… So then, none of you can be My disciple who does not give up all his own possessions. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 14:33, NASB)
Or in another translation:
“… So likewise, whoever of you does not forsake all that he has cannot be My disciple …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 14:33, NKJV)
Yes “Suffering” (willing better) in some Way for Living the Gospel is for “All” Christians and ‘not some in Prosperity’, Verse:
“… Yes, and ALL who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will SUFFER PERSECUTION …” (2 Timothy 3:12, NKJV)
Peace to you
Mystery of the Righteous – Chosen of God
I never read a Verse in the Bible which Describes a righteous person being generous from “someone else’s money” without “including his own part in it” if he can afford it.
This Principle comes from the Man after God’s Own Heart as follows (where even if someone ‘Gives for God’s Work’ if King David can afford it, he doesn’t take it for free at all), Verse:
“… Then THE KING said to Araunah, “No, but I WILL SURELY BUY IT FROM YOU FOR A PRICE; NOR WILL I OFFER burnt offerings to the LORD my God with that WHICH COSTS ME NOTHING.” So DAVID bought the threshing floor and the oxen for fifty shekels of silver. …” (2 Samuel 24:24, NKJV)
It’s almost like King David is Saying (the Way of ‘Kings of Faith’):
‘… A faith that costs nothing is worth nothing …’
More interesting details in Verse below which makes this Context Crisp Clear:
“… Then KING DAVID said to Ornan, “No, but I will surely buy it for the full price, for I WILL NOT TAKE WHAT IS YOURS FOR THE LORD, NOR OFFER burnt offerings WITH THAT WHICH COSTS ME NOTHING.” …” (1 Chronicles 21:24, NKJV)
We need to make our giving pure and “not” by dirty income or by some unfair racism favour or equivalent which we may have benefitted even if our skills etc. is actually not worth it as per principle in Verse below:
“… You also say, ‘Oh, what a weariness!’ And you sneer at it,” Says the LORD of hosts. “And you bring the stolen, the lame, and the sick; Thus you bring an offering! Should I accept this from your hand?” Says the LORD. …” (Malachi 1:13, NKJV)
In Fact, the Bible Clearly Speaks of the Righteous very strongly in the Context of “their generosity” as a leading trait from “their own money/things”, example Verses:
“… But a GENEROUS man DEVISES GENEROUS THINGS, And BY GENEROSITY HE SHALL STAND. …” (Isaiah 32:8, NKJV)
“… 4Unto the upright there arises light in the darkness;
He is GRACIOUS, AND FULL OF COMPASSION, and righteous.
5A good man DEALS GRACIOUSLY AND LENDS;
He will guide his affairs with discretion.
6Surely he will never be shaken;
The RIGHTEOUS WILL BE IN EVERLASTING REMEMBRANCE.
7He will not be afraid of evil tidings;
His heart is steadfast, trusting in the Lord.
8His heart is established;
He will not be afraid,
Until he sees his desire upon his enemies.
9He has dispersed abroad,
He has GIVEN TO THE POOR;
His righteousness ENDURES FOREVER;
His [c]horn will be EXALTED WITH HONOR …” (Psalm 112:4 – 9, NKJV)
These same set of Verses above are quoted in the “New Testament too” proving that this Context Still applies as follows where an interesting thing to note is that Apostle St. Paul is not quoting it toward some ‘rich Christians giving out of their Abundant Wealth’ but rather he points to a ‘very poor Church’ which is what ‘Apostle St. Paul applies the Verses in Psalm 112:4 – 9 above by the Inspiration of the Most Blessed Holy Spirit’:
“… 9As it is written:
“He has dispersed abroad,
He has GIVEN TO THE POOR;
His RIGHTEOUSNESS endures FOREVER.” [Psalm 112:9]
10Now [g]may He who supplies seed to the sower, and bread for food, [h]supply and multiply the seed you have sown and INCREASE THE FRUITS OF YOUR RIGHTEOUSNESS, 11while you are enriched in everything for ALL LIBERALITY, which causes THANKSGIVING THROUGH US TO GOD. 12For the ADMINISTRATION OF THIS SERVICE not only SUPPLIES THE NEEDS OF THE SAINTS, but also is ABOUNDING THROUGH MANY THANKSGIVINGS TO GOD, 13while, through the PROOF OF THIS MINISTRY, THEY GLORIFY GOD for the OBEDIENCE OF YOUR CONFESSION to the GOSPEL OF CHRIST, and for YOUR LIBERAL SHARING WITH THEM and ALL MEN, …” (2 Corinthians 9:9 – 13, NKJV)
So a “Righteous” person which is Prophesied in Psalm 112:4 – 9 earlier and fulfilled in example by 2 Corinthians 9:9 – 13 referred “not” to a rich church but to a “very poor church”, amazing isn’t it how the Most Blessed Holy Spirit of God Quoted this Verse as it is Written.
How do we know that this Corinthian Church was poor? Verse:
“… For you see your calling, brethren, that not many wise according to the flesh, not many mighty, not many noble, are called. …” (1 Corinthians 1:26, NKJV)
Apostle St. Paul quotes an even poorer Church of Macedonia to encourage this Church of Corinthians to complete this “Grace of Giving” too (implying most likely that the Corinthians Church should give even if they are poor because an even poorer Church is giving even beyond their ability!), Verses (this is the Beauty of the Poverty Gospel):
“… 1Moreover, brethren, we make known to you the grace of God bestowed on the churches of Macedonia: 2that in a GREAT TRIAL OF AFFLICTION the abundance of their joy and THEIR DEEP POVERTY abounded in the riches of their liberality. 3For I bear witness that ACCORDING TO THEIR ABILITY, YES, AND BEYOND THEIR ABILITY, They were freely willing, 4imploring us with much urgency [a]that we would receive the gift and the fellowship of the ministering to the saints. 5And not only as we had hoped, but they first gave themselves to the Lord, and then to us by the will of God. 6So we urged Titus, that as he had begun, so he would also complete this grace in you as well. 7But as you abound in everything—in faith, in speech, in knowledge, in all diligence, and in your love for us—see that you abound in this grace also. …” (2 Corinthians 8:1 – 7, NKJV)
Conclusion – The Tov Ayin Mystery may explain this
Jewish Christianity Context first – Charity Doctrine in the Tov Ayin or Good Eye Mystery
Someone put it like this, a Good Eye (Hebrew: Ayin Tov) is a Hebrew idiom meaning “generous person”. Having a good eye essentially means “having the ability to be generous when the opportunity is needed”. To quote:
“… Jesus’ saying appears, however, to be a Hebraic idiom that was used to describe a person’s outlook towards others. A person with a “good eye” (tov-ayin or ayin-tovah) was a person who looked at others with compassion and had a generous spirit, and gave to others as needed. The person with the evil eye (ayin ra’ah) is one who is stingy toward others and greedy with money. This expression is still used in Hebrew today. When people go through Jerusalem raising money, they say, “Please give with a good eye!” The same idiom is also found in Proverbs: “A generous man (Literally, “A good eye”) will be blessed, for he shares his food with the poor.” (Proverbs 22:9) Jesus also uses it at the end of the parable of the landowner who pays the workers all the same, no matter how long they work. The landowner says to the complainers, literally, “Is your eye evil (greedy) because I am good?” (Matthew 20:15). Understanding this idiom helps us understand the whole passage in Matthew 6 that begins with “Do not lay your treasures up on earth,” then talks about the good/evil eye, and then ends with “One cannot serve two masters – both God and money.” All three of these sayings are part of a greater teaching on having the right attitude toward money. …”
Source: https://engediresourcecenter.com/2015/06/30/tov-ayin-a-good-eye/
Isaiah 32:8 in a few translations:
New International Version
But the noble make noble plans, and by noble deeds they stand.
New Living Translation
But generous people plan to do what is generous, and they stand firm in their generosity.
King James Bible
But the liberal deviseth liberal things; and by liberal things shall he stand.
A Beautiful Quote in image agreeing to Bible Verses such as this:
“… I returned and saw under the sun that— The race is not to the swift, Nor the battle to the strong, Nor bread to the wise, Nor riches to men of understanding, Nor favor to men of skill; But time and chance happen to them all. …” (Ecclesiastes 9:11, NKJV)
Let us Believe in the Lord and Do His Commands
“… 12“And behold, Iam coming quickly, and My REWARD IS WITH ME, TO GIVE TO EVERY ONE ACCORDING TO HIS WORK. 13I am the Alpha and the Omega, the [f]Beginning and the End, the First and the Last.” 14BLESSED ARE THOSE WHO [G]DO HIS COMMANDMENTS, that they may have the right to the TREE OF LIFE, and may ENTER THROUGH THE GATES INTO THE CITY. 15[h]But OUTSIDE are dogs and sorcerers and sexually immoral and murderers and idolaters, and whoever loves and practices a lie. 16“I, JESUS, have sent My angel to testify to you these things in the churches. I am the Root and the Offspring of David, the BRIGHT AND MORNING STAR.” …” (Revelation 22:14 – 16, NKJV)
Can Christians Sing Secular Songs?
The Bible Verses doesn’t directly specify and condemn secular music though such music existed in ancient times itself (e.g. Classical or Cultural Songs + Music; I have personally attended even Messianic Jewish Conference in the USA in the past and saw them dance away by singing some cultural song which I don’t think was a praise to God but just for fun).
What do the Bible Verses Say?
1) King Solomon Example – The Wisest Human ever Lived
“… 29And GOD GAVE SOLOMON WISDOM AND EXCEEDINGLY GREAT UNDERSTANDING, and LARGENESS OF HEART LIKE THE SAND ON THE SEASHORE. 30Thus Solomon’s wisdom excelled the wisdom of all the men of the East and all the wisdom of Egypt. 31For he was wiser than all men—than Ethan the Ezrahite, and Heman, Chalcol, and Darda, the sons of Mahol; and his fame was in all the surrounding nations. 32He spoke three thousand proverbs, and HIS SONGS WERE ONE THOUSAND AND FIVE. 33Also he spoke of trees, from the cedar tree of Lebanon even to the hyssop that springs out of the wall; he spoke also of animals, of birds, of creeping things, and of fish. 34And men of all nations, from all the kings of the earth who had heard of his wisdom, came to hear the wisdom of Solomon. …” (1 Kings 4:29 – 34, NKJV)
Comments:
- i) King Solomon sinned but that part is clearly highlighted and condemned in the Bible.
- ii) The Verses quoted above (or others) do “not” condemn King Solomon’s “Songs” at all.
iii) In fact the Verses above prove that King Solomon’s ability to write “all” of his songs (be it spiritual songs or secular songs) comes from God’s Gift of Wisdom to him, to highlight this part from the above, please consider:
“… ..29And GOD GAVE SOLOMON WISDOM AND EXCEEDINGLY GREAT UNDERSTANDING, and LARGENESS OF HEART LIKE THE SAND ON THE SEASHORE … 32He spoke three thousand proverbs, and HIS SONGS WERE ONE THOUSAND AND FIVE. …” (1 Kings 4:29, 32, highlighted, NKJV)
- iv) Even the Wisdom of King Solomon about Secular Knowledge of “Science” came from God (Verse 33).
- v) The Bible Verse above in 1 Kings 4:32 proves that all “his songs” were from “his wisdom” or “enlargement of his heart” which is a “Gift of God” as per 1 Kings 4:29. So the question arises whether King Solomon sang any “Secular Songs” such as a “Love song between two lovers who are to be married” type of Context?
The answer is yes as per Verses below:
“… 1The SONG OF SONGS, WHICH IS SOLOMON’S. 2Let him kiss me with the kisses of his mouth— For [b]your love is better than wine. 3Because of the fragrance of your good ointments, Your name is ointment poured forth; Therefore the virgins love you. 4Draw me away! …” (Song of Songs 1:1 – 4, NKJV)
Did you notice that one of the 1005 songs which King Solomon wrote (1 Kings 4:32) includes the “Love Song” above (Song of Songs 1:1) which continues throughout this book? Yes, this “Secular Song” about “Two Lovers intending to Marry” is a “Bible Verse”.
If “Secular Songs” about “human love” such as “lovers to marry” are wrong, then why is a Bible Verse describing all these clearly in the Book of Song of Songs or Song of Solomon above?
The Physical or Secular Meaning of the Song to refer to mere “human love” between two potential lovers who were to marry is true as the literal meaning of these Verses clearly depict as it is Written and is not wrong because God Allowed such intimacy in the Context of Chaste Marriage.
How else can God Teach that He allows even physical touch in chaste marriage unless these Verses in the “Song of Songs” (as a “secular song” because it’s not directly worshipping God) depict it?
The Allegorical interpretation of the Book of Song of Solomon relating to Christ and His Church is true simultaneously as it was first interpreted like that in Christianity by the Early Church father “Origen of Alexandria” himself and some ancient Jews, to quote:
“… The Song was accepted into the Jewish canon of scripture in the 2nd century CE, after a period of controversy in the 1st century. It was accepted as canonical because of its supposed authorship by Solomon and based on an allegorical reading where the subject-matter was taken to be not sexual desire but God’s love for Israel.[20] For instance, the famed first and second century Rabbi Akiva forbade the use of the Song of Songs in popular celebrations. He reportedly said, “He who sings the Song of Songs in wine taverns, treating it as if it were a vulgar song, forfeits his share in the world to come”… The literal subject of the Song of Songs is love and sexual longing between a man and a woman, and it has little (or nothing) to say about the relationship of God and man; in order to find such a meaning it was necessary to resort to allegory, treating the love that the Song celebrates as an analogy for the love between God and Church.[23] The Christian church’s interpretation of the Song as evidence of God’s love for his people, both collectively and individually, began with Origen. …”
Source: https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Song_of_Songs
Even if you take only an allegorical view of the Song of Solomon interpretation, can God Use Sin such as a “Secular Song” (Bible Verse: Song of Songs/Solomon 1:1) to depict a deeper Allegorical Interpretation?
In other words if God Used a Graphic Song of Solomon Verses detailing “mere physical human love” to depict deeper spiritual truths, those singing about that “human love” (especially without such graphic details as per some secular music likewise) may be allowed too, right?
2) King David Example – The Man after God’s Own Heart
Bible Verses below describe that King David himself sang a “Secular Song” (“secular” because it has NOT one word of Praise nor reference to God in his famous funeral “SONG OF THE BOW” for his BEST FRIEND JONATHAN):
“… 17Then David lamented with this lamentation over Saul and over Jonathan his son, 18and he told them to teach the children of Judah the SONG OF THE BOW; indeed it is written in the Book [c]of Jasher:
19“The beauty of Israel is slain on your high places!
How the mighty have fallen!
20Tell it not in Gath,
Proclaim it not in the streets of Ashkelon—
Lest the daughters of the Philistines rejoice,
Lest the daughters of the uncircumcised triumph.
21“O mountains of Gilboa,
Let there be no dew nor rain upon you,
Nor fields of offerings.
For the shield of the mighty is [d]cast away there!
The shield of Saul, not anointed with oil.
22From the blood of the slain,
From the fat of the mighty,
The bow of Jonathan did not turn back,
And the sword of Saul did not return empty.
23“Saul and Jonathan were beloved and pleasant in their lives,
And in their death they were not divided;
They were swifter than eagles,
They were stronger than lions.
24“O daughters of Israel, weep over Saul,
Who clothed you in scarlet, with luxury;
Who put ornaments of gold on your apparel.
25“How the mighty have fallen in the midst of the battle!
JONATHAN WAS SLAIN IN YOUR HIGH PLACES.
26I AM DISTRESSED FOR YOU, MY BROTHER JONATHAN;
You have been very pleasant to me;
YOUR LOVE TO ME WAS WONDERFUL,
SURPASSING THE LOVE OF WOMEN.
27“How the mighty have fallen,
And the weapons of war perished!” …” (2 Samuel 1:17 – 27, NKJV)
Comments:
- i) A Song is Secular by definition if it does not Worship God. The “Song” of the “Bow” above doesn’t have any reference to God nor the word “God” at all. Can you see it please as it is Written?
- ii) The Hebrew phrase “Song of the Bow” is sometimes translated as the “use of the Bow” however many translators see it as referring to a Funeral “Song” as Jewish Tradition also shows, example translations of 2 Samuel 1:18
New International Version
and he ordered that the people of Judah be taught this lament of the bow (it is written in the Book of Jashar):
New Living Translation
and he commanded that it be taught to the people of Judah. It is known as the Song of the Bow, and it is recorded in The Book of Jashar.
English Standard Version
and he said it should be taught to the people of Judah; behold, it is written in the Book of Jashar. He said:
Berean Study Bible
and he ordered that the sons of Judah be taught the Song of the Bow. It is written in the Book of Jashar:
King James Bible
(Also he bade them teach the children of Judah the use of the bow: behold, it is written in the book of Jasher.)
New King James Version
and he told them to teach the children of Judah the Song of the Bow; indeed it is written in the Book of Jasher:
New American Standard Bible
and he told them to teach the sons of Judah the mourning song of the bow; behold, it is written in the Book of Jashar.
Source: https://biblehub.com/2_samuel/1-18.htm
Are some of the translators going to Hell for calling it “Song of the Bow”?
iii) Septuagint
The Septuagint calls it a “lamentation” which is usually “a sad song”
“… 17And David lamented with this lamentation over Saul and over Jonathan his son. 18And he gave orders to teach it the sons of Juda: behold, it is written in the book of Right. …” (2 Samuel 1:17 – 18, LXX, Brenton Septuagint Translation)
Source: https://biblehub.com/sep/2_samuel/1.htm
- iv) What if 2 Samuel 1:18 – 27 was not a “Song” but a “Poem” only?
Please think about it like this: These “same words” in 2 Samuel 1:18 – 27 if it was a “poem”, you accept it, good. But if it was a “song” you don’t accept it. Can you see the contradiction?
Simply put, whether you “sing” 2 Samuel 1:18 – 27 or say it as a “poem” the “Bible Verse” allows it even though there is “no” mention of God in it directly but only via the “Love of a Friend” which depicts the Love of the Messiah.
Similarly, the “Song of Solomon” (Song of Songs 1:1, called a “Song” already) about the “love between two potential lovers who not yet marry but want to marry” whether it is “sung as a song” or “read as a poem” is still allowed by the Bible Verses to depict God’s Love when future marriage couples Emulate it toward each other to honour God. So it’s absurd to say that we accept these Verses if it’s read but not if it’s sung.
That’s the only difference between secular reading and secular songs namely one is done with singing while the other is done without singing with the “same secular words depicting a human love” in these Verses in Song of Songs 1:1.
My point is this: the Bible Verses here clearly prove the existence of such “Secular Songs” toward a “Love between a woman and man in the Context of Marriage” (Song of Solomon 1:1 onward) and also a “Song sung toward the Love of True Friendships such as between friends like David and Jonathan” (2 Samuel 1:17 – 27) and this is allowed for the Sole Reason of us Understanding God’s Perfect and Faithful Love which Surpasses all these.
Hence, all that matters is that we “Sing Virtues” in secular songs to promote “Good Values” and “not sin” which is foolish:
“… It is better to hear the REBUKE OF THE WISE Than for a man to hear the SONG OF FOOLS …” (Ecclesiastes 7:5, NKJV)
The Verse above (Ecclesiastes 7:5) is “not” banning every secular music songs but those ones that are “foolish” such as singing about “sin” (example: immorality, double Sexual Meanings, Idolatry, pride, love of money, alcohol and substance abuse etc.).
Please also notice carefully that it compares the act of listening to the “… REBUKE OF THE WISE …” than “to hear the SONG OF FOOLS …”. So if a rebuke of a wise is sung, is it not then allowed? Hence the message of the secular song is important and not the act or skill of singing.
- iv) The “Song of the Bow” is a “Song” Purely about the “Love” and “Virtues of a Friendship” which satisfies God’s Will, and so singing about promoting such Virtues in Human Relationships may thus be allowed Biblically, Verse:
“… 17Then David lamented with this lamentation over Saul and over Jonathan his son, 18and he told them to teach the children of Judah the SONG OF THE BOW; indeed it is written in the Book [c]of Jasher: … 25“How the mighty have fallen in the midst of the battle! JONATHAN WAS SLAIN IN YOUR HIGH PLACES. 26I AM DISTRESSED FOR YOU, MY BROTHER JONATHAN; You have been very pleasant to me; YOUR LOVE TO ME WAS WONDERFUL, SURPASSING THE LOVE OF WOMEN. ” …” (2 Samuel 1:17 – 18, 25 – 26, NKJV)
3) Lord Jesus Christ – Did Christ Ban Secular Music?
“… 22“But the father said to his servants, [f]‘Bring out the best robe and put it on him, and put a ring on his hand and sandals on his feet. 23And bring the fatted calf here and kill it, and let us eat AND BE MERRY; 24for this my son was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found.’ And THEY BEGAN TO BE MERRY. 25“Now his older son was in the field. And as he came and drew near to the house, HE HEARD MUSIC AND DANCING. …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 15:22 – 25, NKJV)
Please notice carefully that CHRIST HIMSELF is not describing a “sin” but something which the “Father in the Parable” allowed namely being MERRY with MUSIC AND DANCING (another type of secular music as they are not worshipping God in this scenario but just being happy).
In other words, if “secular music” such as “music and dancing just to be merry” sometimes is wrong, then how can Christ describe it in a Parable with the Father allowing that?
Can Christ allow the instrumental “music + dancing” type of Secular Music for no reason but to be “MERRY” (as Luke 15:22 – 25 describes), but then don’t allow singing type of secular music? He must either allow both by His Mercy or ban both, right (if it’s dangerous)?
So if Christ allows such “secular music+ dancing” even in a Parable, then these acts are allowed and not a sin, right?
“… Did not Moses give you the law, yet none of you keeps the law? Why do you seek to kill Me?” …” – The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (John 7:19, NKJV)
Please be careful of a Christianity which is obsessed about things which are NOT Condemned by the Law nor by Christ’s Words but they don’t Focus on “His Law/His Commands” as John 7:19 may be Quoted in Principle of “His New Testament Commands” for example to “not go beyond what is Written” (example 1 Corinthians 4:4 – 17).
Do Secular Songs bring Glory to God?
Does disobeying New Testament Church Order Commands and Personal Conduct Commands (e.g. 1 Corinthians 11 – 14) bring Glory to God?
We have entire denominations ignoring so many “New Testament Commands” (please read say 1 Corinthians 11 – 14), and they’re asking “do secular songs bring Glory to God?” when God’s Word in these Verses itself allows it as it reflects the “Virtues” one ought to have toward one another as a Human being be it in marriage (Song of Songs 1:1) or friendship (2 Samuel 1:17 – 27) as we have seen in Verses prior. Example of “New Testament Commands” ignored thoroughly by such denominations to which the Verses Warn as follows:
“… 33For God is not a God of disorder but of peace—as in all the congregations of the Lord’s people … 36Or did the word of God originate with you? Or are you the only people it has reached? 37If anyone thinks they are a PROPHET or otherwise GIFTED BY THE SPIRIT, let them ACKNOWLEDGE that WHAT I AM WRITING to you is the LORD’S COMMAND. 38But if anyone IGNORES THIS, THEY WILL THEMSELVES BE IGNORED. …” (1 Corinthians 14:33, 36 – 38, NIV)
Biblical Logic: If “no” Verse condemns us, we are not Condemned but if so many other Verses especially “New Testament Verses” condemn our deeds or ways, it’s “really risky”.
Peace to you
Sadhu Sundar Singh’s Clear cut Christ Centered Universalism Quotes.
Source Post (please click for an easier reading):
https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=10161011334917784&id=651792783
He seems very convinced. Please note that unlike the modern “censored” biographies sold these days in some Christian bookstores written by people who “never met him in real life”, this biography was written by two well known*, highly educated and respected Protestant leaders of the Church who personally may have believed in eternal Hell but are honest about what Sadhu Sundar Singh wrote and “both” of them “knew Sundar Singh personally” and quite closely (relatively) .
Please note that Rev. Streeter was a fellow at Oxford while Dr. AJ Appasamy was a graduate from Harvard back then itself (I think later he also did a post-graduate degree at Oxford too) while also at the same time being an Ordained Bishop with the Protestant “Church of India”.
About them (please see image too):
- i) Reverend Streeter
“… Burnett Hillman Streeter FBA[4] (1874–1937) was an English Anglican theologian, biblical scholar, and textual critic. … Streeter was born in Croydon, London, on 17 November 1874 and educated at The Queen’s College, Oxford.[3] He was ordained in 1899 and was a member of the Archbishops’ Commission on Doctrine in the Church of England (from 1922 to 1937). … He was Dean Ireland’s Professor of the Exegesis of Holy Scripture at the University of Oxford from 1932 to 1933, when he became Provost of Queen’s College. … ”
Source:
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/B._H._Streeter
- ii) Dr. AJ Appasamy
“… Aiyadurai Jesudasen Appasamy (3 September 1891 – 1980) was an Indian Christian theologian, and bishop of the Church of South India in Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu. He was a member of the ‘Rethinking Christianity Group’, and sought to reconcile Christian with Hindu philosophies. He interpreted Christianity as ‘bhaktimarga’. … It seemed evident to Appasamy that ‘if the Christians in India are to make any impact upon national life, they must be well-educated men who are quite familiar with the literature of the country, though they may not follow the Hindu religion.’ He came to this conclusion from a comparison with the role of Christians in ancient Rome.[6] The influence of ‘many great scholars and inspiring teachers’, such as J. N. Farquhar, B. H. Streeter, Friedrich von Hügel, William Temple, Friedrich Heiler and Rudolf Otto, led him to the conclusion ‘that we had a good deal to learn from the life and experience of the bhakti writers of India.’[7] Another influence which began at this time was that of the sadhu Sundar Singh, who visited Oxford in 1920. Appasamy came to know Sundar Singh well, and collaborated with B.H. Streeter in writing a book on him, The Sadhu (1921). … In 1946 he became an archdeacon. From 1951 until his retirement in 1959 he served in the newly formed Church of South India as bishop in Coimbatore diocese, Tamil Nadu. In his works Appasamy mentions all kinds of people: some as illustration, some to disagree with and some as examples to learn from. These are some people whom he admires: St. John, St. Paul, St. Augustine, Ramanuja, St. Bernard of Clairvaux, Manikkavacakar, St. Francis of Assisi, Julian of Norwich, Thomas à Kempis, Kabir, Luther, Tukaram, George Fox, John Wesley, John Henry Newman, H.A. Krishna Pillai, pandita Ramabai, M.K. Gandhi, C.F. Andrews, Albert Schweitzer, Sadhu Sundar Singh. …”
Source:
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aiyadurai_Jesudasen_Appasamy
iii) “Church of South India”.
“… The Church of South India (CSI) is a united Protestant Church, being the second-largest Christian church in India based on the number of members; it is the result of union of a number of Protestant churches in South India. … Distinct fellowships Christian Conference of Asia, National Council of Churches in India, Communion of Churches in India. Associations Anglican Communion, World Methodist Council, World Council of Churches, World Communion of Reformed Churches …”
Source:
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Church_of_South_India
For those Protestants (especially if Indian) if they deny the “Church of South India”, please let them know that the most famous No. 1 Christian in Eternal Hell Theology Camp from India with the Highest Anointing to do Miracles, Word of Knowledge and Soul Conversions via “Jesus Calls” Ministry itself, the late Blessed Dr. DGS Dhinakaran himself was a “member of this same Church of South India” till he died, to quote:
“… Dhinakaran, who remained a member of the Church of South India,[5] was among the first Indian Christian leaders to appreciate the potential of television as a medium for evangelism. …”
Source: https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/D._G._S._Dhinakaran
Further related Reading in an earlier post below:
https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=10161007982342784&id=651792783
Peace to you
Sadhu Sundar Singh – a Christian Universalist Confirmed in Heaven by Dr DGS Dhinakaran
Where?
Please read the quoted page in image authored by Dr. DGS Dhinakaran himself in his famous book claiming multiple visits to heaven via the Power of the Holy Spirit (Page 101 in this printout) calling Sadhu Sundar Singh as the ‘Great and Acclaimed Saint of India’.
1) Who was Sadhu Sundar Singh?
Link:
http://www.newworldencyclopedia.org/entry/Sadhu_Sundar_Singh
2) Who was Dr. DGS Dhinakaran?
Link:
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/D._G._S._Dhinakaran
3) Was Sadhu Sundar Singh a Christian Universalist?
Sadhu Sundar Singh was clearly a Christian Universalist who believed these aspects which agree especially with both the ‘Shepherd of Hermas Scripture’ and ‘Apocalypse of Peter Scripture’ as these were both found in the First Bibles of Christianity (i. e. The ‘Muratorian Canon or Roman Canon’ in the West and the ‘Codex Claromontanus’ in the East) as discussed in previous posts, example in the ones below:
- i) Sadhu Sundar Singh’s numerous Christian Universalism Hope Belief Quotes
https://www.anonymouschristian.org/blog/sadhu-sundar-singh-a-christian-universalist/amp/
- ii) Christ Centered Universalism Mystery in First Christianity
Conclusion – Examples of Christ Centered Universalism Quotes by Sadhu Sundar singh
- a) Relatively Good Atheists – an Atheist with a Reasonably Good Moral Life may be Saved in the Spirit World even now
“… DEATH OF A PHILOSOPHER … The soul of a German philosopher entered into the world of spirits and saw from afar the incomparable glory of the spiritual world, and the boundless happiness of its people. He was delighted with what he saw, but his stubborn intellectualism stood in the way of his entering into it, and enjoying its happiness. Instead of admitting that it was real, he argued thus with himself, “There is no doubt at all that I see all this, but what proof is there that it has objective existence, and is not some illusion conjured up by my mind? From end to end of all this scene I will apply the tests of logic, philosophy and science, and then only will I be convinced that it has a reality of its own, and is no illusion.” … . I asked one of the angels what the end of this man would be, and he replied “If this man’s life had been altogether bad, then he would at once have joined the spirits of darkness, but he is not without a moral sense, so for a very long time he will wander blindly round in the dim light of the lower parts of the intermediate state, and keep on bumping his philosophical head, until tired of his foolishness, he repents. Then he will be ready to receive the necessary instruction from the angels appointed for that purpose, and, when instructed, will he be fit to enter into the fuller light of God in the higher sphere…” – Blessed Sadhu Sundar Singh
Source [Translated by Rev. T. E. Riddle of the New Zealand Presbyterian Mission, Kharar, Punjab, from Urdu into English, c. 1926]:
https://reluctant-messenger.com/sadhu-sundar-singh.htm
- b) Relatively Good Non-Christians
A sincerely wrong non-Christian Idolater who has a reasonably sound moral compass may have a chance in the Spirit World even now too if he doesn’t hold too strongly to his false beliefs, to quote:
“… THE MANIFESTATION OF CHRIST … I saw in a vision the spirit of an idolater on reaching the world of spirits begin at once to search for his god. Then the saints said to him, “There is no god here save the One True God, and Christ, who is His manifestation.” At this, the man was a good deal astonished, but being a sincere seeker after truth, he frankly admitted that he had been in error. He eagerly sought to know the correct view of truth, and asked if he might see the Christ. Shortly after this Christ manifested Himself in a dim light to him, and to others who had newly arrived in the world of spirits, because at this stage they could not have endured a full exhibition of His glory, for His glory is so surpassing that even the angels look on Him with difficulty, and cover their faces with their wings (Isaiah 6:9). When He does reveal Himself to any one He takes into account the particular stage of progress to which that soul has attained, so He appears dimly, or in the fuller light of His glory, that the sight of Him may be endured. So, when these spirits saw Christ in this dim but attractive light, they were filled with a joy and peace, which is beyond our power to describe. Bathed in the rays of His life-giving light, and with the waves of His love, which constantly flow out from Him, flowing over them, all their error was washed away. Then with all their hearts, they acknowledged Him as the Truth, and found healing, and, bowing in lowly adoration before Him, thanked and praised Him. And the saints, who had been appointed for their instruction; also rejoiced over them. …” – Blessed Sadhu Sundar Singh
Source [Translated by Rev. T. E. Riddle of the New Zealand Presbyterian Mission, Kharar, Punjab, from Urdu into English, c. 1926]:
https://reluctant-messenger.com/sadhu-sundar-singh.htm
- c) Salvation from the Lake of Fire type quotes
(Question #3) Did the Sadhu think there was eternal punishment? — “There was punishment, but it was not eternal…Everyone after this life would be given a fair chance of making good, and attaining to the measure of fullness the soul was capable of. This might sometimes take ages.” – Sadhu Sundar Singh
Few Christians know that Sundar was not afraid to raise his voice in favor of “universalism.” He could never deny to all non-Christians the possibility of entering heaven.
In 1925 Sundar wrote, “If the Divine spark in the soul cannot be destroyed, then we need despair of no sinner… Since God created men to have fellowship with Himself, they cannot for ever be separated from Him… After long wandering, and by devious paths, sinful man will at last return to Him in whose Image he was created; for this is his final destiny.”
Source: https://www.tentmaker.org/biographies/singh.htm
P/S: 2 Samuel 14:14 in a few translations
New American Standard Bible
“For we will surely die and are like water spilled on the ground which cannot be gathered up again. Yet God does not take away life, but plans ways so that the banished one will not be cast out from him.
New King James Version
For we will surely die and become like water spilled on the ground, which cannot be gathered up again. Yet God does not take away a life; but He devises means, so that His banished ones are not expelled from Him.
Christian Standard Bible
We will certainly die and be like water poured out on the ground, which can’t be recovered. But God would not take away a life; he would devise plans so that the one banished from him does not remain banished.
Peace to you
Sheepfold2 – Good Muslims?
Please note that Sadhu Sundar Singh approved Swedenborg’s Visions of Heaven and Hell though NOT necessarily Swedenborg’s Theological Errors (as shown in Image).
Both Sadhu Sundar Singh and Swedenborg have a common ground in their visions in that they saw ‘non-Christians who lived a relatively Biblical moral life being Saved in the afterlife after they endure their afterlife Judgments’. To quote (this time from Swedenborg’s approved section of the Vision base on its agreement to Sundar Singh’s – in this ‘Context’):
Page 426:
“Behind these are the places where those are taught who died in adult age, and who in the world had an affection for truth derived from good of life. Again, behind these are those who in the world were connected with the Mohammedan religion, and lived a moral life and acknowledged one Divine, and the Lord as the very Prophet. When these withdraw from Mohammed, because he can give them no help, they approach the Lord and worship him and acknowledge his Divinity, and they are then instructed in the Christian religion. Behind these more to the north are the places of instruction of various heathen nations who in the world have lived a good life in conformity with their religion, and have thereby acquired a kind of conscience, and have done what is just and right not so much from a regard to the laws of their government, as from a regard to the laws of religion, which they believed ought to be sacredly observed, and in no way violated by their doings. When these have been taught they are all easily led to acknowledge the Lord, because it is impressed on their hearts that God is not invisible, but is visible under a human form. These in number exceed all the rest, and the best of them are from Africa.
But all are not taught in the same way, nor by the same societies of heaven. Those that have been brought up from childhood in heaven, not having imbibed falsities from the falsities of religion or defiled their spiritual life with the dregs pertaining to honors and riches in the world, receive instruction from the angels of the interior heavens; while those that have died in adult age receive instruction mainly from angels of the lowest heaven, because these angels are better suited to them than the angels of the interior heavens, who are in interior wisdom which is not yet acceptable to them. But the Mohammedans receive instruction from angels who had been previously in the same religion and had been converted to Christianity. The heathen, too, are taught by their angels.”
Page 427:
“All teaching there is from doctrine drawn from the Word, and not from the Word apart from doctrine. Christians are taught from heavenly doctrine, which is in entire agreement with the internal sense of the Word. All others, as the Mohammedans and heathen, are taught from doctrines suited to their apprehension, which differ from heavenly doctrine only in this, that spiritual life is taught by means of moral life in harmony with the good tenets of their religion from which they had derived their life in the world. 517. Instruction in the heavens differs from instruction on earth in that knowledges are not committed to memory, but to life; for the memory of spirits is in their life, for they receive and imbibe everything that is in harmony with their life, and do not receive, still less imbibe, what is not in harmony with it; for spirits are affections, and are therefore in a human form that is similar to their affections. [2] Being such they are constantly animated by an affection for truth that looks to the uses of life; for the Lord provides for everyone’s loving the uses suited to his genius; and that love is exalted by the hope of becoming an angel. And as all the uses of heaven have relation to the general use, which is the good of the Lord’s kingdom, which in heaven is the fatherland, and as all special and particular uses are to be valued in proportion as they more closely and fully have regard to that general use, so all of these special and particular uses, which are innumerable, are good and heavenly; therefore in everyone an affection for truth is so conjoined with an affection for use that the two make one; and thereby truth is so implanted in use that the truths they acquire are truths of use. In this way are angelic spirits taught and prepared for heaven.”
Source:
https://swedenborg.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/swedenborg_foundation_heaven_and_hell.pdf
More Details?
https://www.anonymouschristian.org/blog/heaven-and-hell-visions-real-visits-knowing-in-parts/
Please take note that the “non-Christian heaven” is NOT the same as the “Christian Heavens” where the Christian Heavens are far more incomparable and Glorious as the Context of Swedenborg’s Visions itself prove (I am not saying his visions is true or not but keep an open mind as “possible” for the one Reason that Blessed Sadhu Sundar Singh whom I believe is a real Christian approved Swedenborg’s vision in this context too), to quote:
“… THE MOHAMMEDANS IN THE SPIRITUAL WORLD. The Mohammedans in the spiritual world appear behind the Papists in the west, and form as it were a border around them. They appear next behind the Christians because they acknowledge our Lord to be the greatest prophet, the wisest of all men, who was sent into the world to teach men, and also that He is the Son of God. In that world everyone dwells at such a distance from the central region, where the Christians are, as accords with their confession of the Lord and of one God; for that confession is what conjoins minds with heaven, and determines distance from the east, above which quarter is the Lord. …” – Swedenborg
Source: https://www.sacred-texts.com/swd/tcr/tcr17.htm
Note: This same quote can be found in book in link below in page 426, Point 514:
https://swedenborg.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/swedenborg_foundation_heaven_and_hell.pdf
“For God has shut up all in disobedience so that He may show mercy to all. Oh, the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable are His judgments and unfathomable His ways!” – apostle Paul (Romans 11:32 – 33, NASB)
or in the other Manuscript:
“For God hath concluded them all in unbelief, that He might have mercy upon all. O the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! how unsearchable are His judgments, and His ways past finding out!” – apostle Paul (Romans 11:32 – 33, KJV)
Christ Centered Universalism – Blessed Billy Graham affirmed Hope for good non-Christians too
Example Video: https://youtu.be/drt5VPfnnms
Indeed, late in life, the World Famous Evangelist Blessed Billy Graham himself affirmed that good non-Christians may be Saved (which we understand to be a ‘Non-Elect Salvation’ as we have discussed with First Christianity quotes from Blessed Origen, Blessed St. Jerome and even the Shepherd of Hermas Scripture to Blessed Sadhu Sundar Singh & Blessed Emmanuel Swedenborg’s Visions too) as it was discussed in further in post below too:
So, isn’t Blessed Billy Graham one of the most profoundly Anointed Man of God in all of Modern Protestantism?
Is he going to be hearing ‘I never knew you’ or is he revealing Deep Truths from Holy Scripture as he understood it as well from the Bible for example regarding the Mysterious surprised sheep as Matthew 25:31 – 46 describes literally?
As usual, some protestants affirm that Blessed Billy Graham and all Roman Catholics & other denominations of Christianity are going to an eternal Hell too, example in link below:
Here’s an example quote from link above:
“… Billy Graham was undoubtedly an ecumenicalist as he praised the pope as his “brother” and treated Roman Catholicism as a valid expression of the Christian faith. Speaking of Pope John Paul II after his death, Graham stated, I think he’s with the Lord, because he believed. He believed in the Cross. That was his focus throughout his ministry, the Cross, no matter if you were talking to him from personal issue or an ethical problem, he felt that there was the answer to all of our problems, the cross and the resurrection. And he was a strong believer. …”
No Verse in the Bible condemns Christ Centered Universalism as Hoping and Praying for it is God’s Will (1 Timothy 2:1, 1 Timothy 2:4, 1 Timothy 2:6, 1 Timothy 4:10) and thus even if God Decides Eternal-Hell, we can Petition for it and God can Decide into the ages to come whether to let His Mercy to Triumph and End any Judgment Sentence (James 2:13, Romans 11:30 – 32) as that’s what a Christian ought to Try Always & it’s not a Heresy for His Sons to Ask into the ages to come too (Ephesians 2:7), to quote:
“… and yet to recognize that His kingdom is ETERNAL, that is to say, the kingdom of the Son, for in the Name of Jesus EVERY KNEE shakes in HEAVEN, on the EARTH, and IN HELL. (Philip. 2) The Apostle St. Peter confirms this truth when he says:” No other name under heaven was given to MEN by which we were to BE SAVED.” (Acts 4) And did not the Lord Himself say to His disciples, “Until now you have not asked anything in my name, ask and I will answer you?” (John. 16:24) The REIGN of the Son therefore consists in the fact that it is in HIS NAME that ALL MEN are SAVED, and that ALL the PRAYERS addressed to Him until the end of the world are ANSWERED. But when ALL CREATURES have confessed Jesus Christ WILLINGLY or by FORCE, and have been subjected to the power against which they have resisted, then the MYSTERY of ONE GOD will be REVEALED to ALL MEN, and all thanksgivings will go back to God the Father, the principle of all things, that ALL PREACHING CEASE, ONE GOD be recognized in the MYSTERY of the TRINITY. … ” – Blessed Ambrosiaster (literally in Latin: “would-be Ambrose”), Roman Clergy active at Rome during the reign of Pope Damasus (c.366 AD – c. 384 AD) (Written c. 366 – c. 384, Reply to Question 26, Commentary on the Gospel of Luke)
Source:
Conclusion – What did Blessed Billy Graham believe as Christian Faith?
To quote:
Quote 1—Are Muslims and Buddhists Saved? (an Interview with Robert Schuller)
Schuller: Tell me, what do you think is the future of Christianity?
Graham: Well, Christianity and being a true believer, you know, I think there’s the body of Christ, which comes from all the Christian groups around the world, or outside the Christian groups. I think everybody that loves Christ, or knows Christ, whether they’re conscious of it or not, they’re members of the body of Christ. And I don’t think that we’re going to see a great sweeping revival that will turn the whole world to Christ at any time. I think James answered that, the apostle James in the first council in Jerusalem, when he said that God’s purpose for this age is to call out a people for His name. And that’s what God is doing today, He’s calling people out of the world for His name, whether they come from the Muslim world, or the Buddhist world, or the Christian world or the nonbelieving world, they are members of the body of Christ because they’ve been called by God. They may not even know the name of Jesus but they know in their hearts that they need something that they don’t have, and they turn to the only light that they have, and I think that they are saved, and that they’re going to be with us in heaven.
Schuller: What I hear you saying is that it’s possible for Jesus Christ to come into human hearts and soul and life even if they’ve been born in darkness and never had an exposure to the Bible. Is that a correct interpretation of what you are saying?
Graham: Yes, it is because I believe that. I’ve met people in various parts of the world in tribal situations, that they have never seen a Bible or heard about a Bible, and never heard of Jesus, but they’ve believed in their hearts that there was a God, and they’ve tried to live a life that was quite apart from the surrounding community in which they lived.
Schuller: That’s fantastic, I’m so thrilled to hear you say that, there’s a wideness in God’s mercy.
Graham: There is. There definitely is.2
Quote 2—Salvation without Christ? (an Interview with McCall’s Magazine)
I used to play God, but I can’t do that anymore. I used to believe pagans in far-off countries were lost—were going to hell—if they did not have the Gospel of Jesus Christ preached to them. I no longer believe that. . . . I believe there are other ways of recognizing the existence of God—through nature, for instance—and plenty of other opportunities, therefore, of saying “yes” to God. (Graham later clarified what he meant here.).
Note: Blessed Billy Graham does not believe in other ways of Salvation but only through Christ but Christ can Save them where even He did not Scatter the Seed of the Gospel too as Matthew 25:24 and Matthew 25:26 Reveals (i. e. Possibly the ‘Non-Elect Salvation’ both Blessed Origen and Blessed St. Jerome of the Vulgate have affirmed too) as opposed to the Christian Seed Salvation (i. e. the ‘Elect Salvation’ as it is described in the Parable of the Sower, Matthew 13:1 -8, Matthew 13:18 – 30).
Quote 3—Should We Link America with the Kingdom of God?
Speaking as an American himself, Graham said: I came close to identifying the American way of life with the kingdom of God. Then I realized that God had called me to a higher kingdom than America. I have tried to be faithful to my calling as a minister of the gospel.4
The above is a short excerpt from ReGrace with the endnotes removed. The rest of the quotes by Graham — including clarifying remarks he made about some of them — are included in the book.
To order the book, go to ReGrace: What the Shocking Beliefs of the Great Christians Can Teach Us Today.
Here is the Back Cover Description:
The church is tired of seeing Christians act ungraciously toward one another when they disagree. Social media has added to the carnage. Christians routinely block each other on Facebook because of doctrinal disagreements. The world watches the blood-letting, and the Christian witness is tarnished.
But what if every Christian discovered that their favorite teacher in church history had blind spots and held to some false–and even shocking–views?
Bestselling author Frank Viola argues that this simple awareness will soften Christians when they interact with each other in the face of theological disagreements.
In ReGrace, he uncovers some of the shocking beliefs held by faith giants like C.S. Lewis, Luther, Calvin, Moody, Spurgeon, Wesley, Graham, and Augustine–not to downgrade or dismiss them, but to show that even “the greats” in church history didn’t get everything right.
Knowing that the heroes of our faith sometimes got it wrong will empower us to treat our fellow Christians with grace rather than disdain whenever we disagree over theology.
Source: https://www.patheos.com/blogs/frankviola/billygraham/
Did we know? – God never Accepts our Worship or Song unless we have the Charity Doctrine Lifestyle
Source Post:
https://www.facebook.com/jonathan.ramachandran/posts/10161032908402784
Verse:
“… the SONG of the RUTHLESS is [a]SILENCED. …” (Isaiah 25:5, NASB)
That Verse in full ‘Context’:
“…4For You have been a stronghold for the HELPLESS,
A stronghold for the POOR in his distress,
A refuge from the storm, a shade from the heat;
For the breath of the RUTHLESS
Is like a rain storm against a wall.
5Like heat in a dry land, You subdue the uproar of foreigners;
Like heat by the shadow of a cloud, THE SONG of the RUTHLESS is [a]SILENCED. …” (Isaiah 25:4 – 5, NASB)
Context: God is Described as the Champion of the POOR and HELPLESS on that Day where He is Compared against the “RUTHLESS” (Hebrew: 6184, ‘ā·rî·ṣîm) who are thus those who DON”T HELP the POOR and NEEDY.
How do we know for sure about this Biblical Definition of who are the “RUTHLESS” (Hebrew: 6184, ‘ā·rî·ṣîm)?
We see this same Hebrew Word for a “RUTHLESS” person (Hebrew: 6184, ‘ā·rî·ṣîm) in Verse below where it is described as SOEMEONE WHO RETAINS WEALTH/MONEY (i.e. they don’t share with others), Verse:
“… A gracious woman retains honor, But RUTHELESS MEN RETAIN RICHES. …” (Proverbs 11:16, NKJV)
A lot of translations mess up these words as “terrible men” at one place (Isaiah 25:5) and as “Ruthless” men in Proverbs 11:16 not really showing that in the ORIGINAL HEBREW BIBLE, the Word for such men is the SAME namely “RUTHLESS” (Hebrew: 6184, ‘ā·rî·ṣîm).
Can you understand it please as it is Written?
What can be Worse than Hoarding God’s Money (i.e. say Money Collection in the Name of God for self-sustenance or prosperity instead of Giving it to the POOR and HELPLESS as that’s what God Would do as these Verses describe)?
That’s why the Prosperity Gospel might fit the bill of a “RUTHLESS Christianity” by “RETAINING RICHES” and so whose “SONGS (including Worship) of the RUTHLESS will be SILENCED” on “that DAY” as these Verses Prophesy.
So let us therefore practice any little Almsgiving toward the POOR and HELPLESS in some way to avoid being RUTHLESS and our worship being rejected by God.
Comparison:
“… the SONG of the RUTHLESS (Hebrew: 6184, ‘ā·rî·ṣîm) is [a]SILENCED. …” (Isaiah 25:5, NASB)
“… A gracious woman retains honor, But RUTHELESS (Hebrew: 6184, ‘ā·rî·ṣîm) MEN RETAIN RICHES. …” (Proverbs 11:16, NKJV)
Source for these Original Words may be seen in Interlinnear below:
https://biblehub.com/interlinear/isaiah/25-4.htm
https://biblehub.com/interlinear/isaiah/25-5.htm
https://biblehub.com/interlinear/proverbs/11-16.htm
Comment: If God despises the “Songs of the Ruthless who retain riches”, then the opposite must be true in that He must LOVE the SONGS of the GENEROUS HELPERS of the POOR and HELPLESS, right?
Hence if we wish to get close to God, let’s learn to Consider ‘what He Wants’ as it is ‘Written in Holy Scripture’. Indeed, if we love Worshipping God, then let “True Worshippers” realize such Biblical Truths as it is Written and not be selfish with such Knowledge but share with others too.
“… But the hour is coming, and now is, when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth; for the Father is seeking such to worship Him …” (John 4:23, NKJV)
Example of “True Worshippers” with the “Charity Doctrine Practicing New Testament Church” which supplies the “NEEDS” (not prosperity, luxury nor wants of others) is Described in Verses below:
“…12For the administration of this service not only supplies the NEEDS OF THE SAINTS, but also is abounding through MANY THANKSGIVINGS TO GOD, 13while, through the PROOF OF THIS MINISTRY, they glorify God for the OBEDIENCE of your CONFESSION to the GOSPEL OF CHRIST, and for YOUR LIBERAL SHARING WITH THEM and ALL MEN …” (2 Corinthians 9:12 – 13, NKJV)
In full, this ‘Grace’ (of God) is Described as follows):
“… 7So let EACH ONE GIVE as he purposes in his heart, not grudgingly or of [f]necessity; FOR GOD LOVES A CHEERFUL GIVER. 8And God is able to make all grace abound toward you, that you, always having all SUFFICIENCY IN ALL THINGS, may have an ABUNDANCE FOR EVERY GOOD WORK. 9As it is written: “He has dispersed abroad, HE HAS GIVEN TO THE POOR; His righteousness ENDURES FOREVER.” 10Now [g]may He who supplies seed to the sower, and bread for food, [h]supply and multiply the seed you have sown and INCREASE THE FRUITS OF YOUR RIGHTEOUSNESS, 11while you are enriched in everything for all liberality, which causes THANKSGIVING THROUGH US TO GOD. 12For the administration of this service not only supplies the NEEDS OF THE SAINTS, but also is abounding through MANY THANKSGIVINGS TO GOD, 13while, through the PROOF OF THIS MINISTRY, they glorify God for the OBEDIENCE of your CONFESSION to the GOSPEL OF CHRIST, and for YOUR LIBERAL SHARING WITH THEM and ALL MEN …” (2 Corinthians 9:7 – 13, NKJV)
Indeed, we are Created to “Worship God” and can we see it with Scripture how this links too with the “Charity Doctrine Lifestyle”?
So, Bigger the Worship, Bigger the Giving for the NEEDS of others and vice versa as these Verses clearly prove.
Our Giving may not be that Great in light of “Relative Measure”. That is why I am “not” fond of Prosperity Christianity which Gives so little when measured in “Relative Measure” (as they receive far more than what they give/share, God Counts as per the case of the Poor Widow with 2 coins, in Luke 21:1 – 4 or the early church examples in 2 Corinthians 8:1 – 7 and so big giving in amount may not be much when given out of great abundance as Christ Himself remarked as follows):
“… 1And He looked up and saw the rich putting their gifts into the treasury, 2and He saw also a certain poor widow putting in two mites. 3So He [The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ] said, “Truly I say to you that this poor widow has put in MORE THAN ALL; 4for all these out of their abundance have put in offerings for God, but she out of HER POVERTY put in ALL THE LIVELIHOOD THAT SHE HAD. …” (Luke 21:1 – 4, NKJV)
Since God Counts our Giving based on what we receive or in Christ’s Own Most Blessed Words “… 4for all these out of their abundance have put in offerings for God, …”, we ought to take note too if we truly seek to “Please Him” in “this Grace” (2 Corinthians 8:7). Being imperfect we cannot do a little bigger giving all the time but at least once would suffice at a deeper level while if other times lesser too so that we can experience true giving & also at least we know this which should humble us.
Peace to you
Peace to you
The Real Slayer of Faith – Love of Money
Source Post (please click for easier reading):
https://www.facebook.com/651792783/posts/10161038859732784/
The strangest faith is “faith to get more money”. No such thing exists in Scripture. The Verse (in image) Says that it causes an automatic “… Erring from the faith …” or “… straying from the faith …” (as some translations render) which doesn’t sound like they’re saved, right? Let God Decide but from Blessed Abraham to Blessed Job, none of them had any “Faith for Money” but were made rich even when they didn’t ask for it and shared & lived the Charity Doctrine Lifestyle extravagantly, example Verses next.
Yes, it’s “Biblical” and Blessed Job was one of the most Righteous men to walk the earth and was one of God’s Favourite and though he was rich he was “full of the Charity Doctrine”, Verses:
“… 16“If I have kept the POOR from their desire,
Or caused the eyes of the WIDOW to fail,
17Or EATEN MY MORSEL BY MYSELF,
So that the FATHERLESS could not eat of it
18(But from my youth I REARED HIM AS A FATHER,
And from my mother’s womb I GUIDED [D]THE WIDOW);
19If I have seen ANYONE PERISH FOR LACK OF CLOTHING,
Or ANY POOR MAN WITHOUT COVERING;
20If his [e]heart has not blessed me,
And if he was not WARMED WITH THE FLEECE OF MY SHEEP;
21If I have RAISED MY HAND AGAINST THE FATHERLESS,
When I saw I had help in the gate;
22Then let my arm fall from my shoulder,
Let my arm be torn from the socket.
23For destruction from God is a terror to me,
And because of His magnificence I cannot endure. …” (Job 31:16 – 23, NKJV)
Conclusion
“Love of Money” is Satan’s Trump card.
No matter how hard we sing, pray, bible-read, fast or do other righteous acts, if the “Love of Money” is Within us, we are still “erring/straying from the faith” as this Verse proves:
“… For the LOVE OF MONEY is a root of all kinds of evil, for which some have STRAYED FROM THE FAITH in their greediness, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows. …” (1 Timothy 6:10, NKJV)
Please remember that some think that they don’t love money but in fact we may actually do. The opposite to “Love of Money” is to “share, do good works, give”:
“… 17COMMAND THOSE WHO ARE RICH in this present age not to be haughty, nor to trust in uncertain riches but in the living God, who gives us richly all things to enjoy. 18Let THEM DO GOOD, that they be RICH IN GOOD WORKS, READY TO GIVE, WILLING TO SHARE, 19storing up for themselves a good foundation for the time to come, that THEY MAY LAY HOLD ON ETERNAL LIFE. …” (1 Timothy 6:17 – 19, NKJV)
No wonder Christ Taught this to the Opposite of Loving Money which is “Almsgiving”, Verses:
“… 39Then the Lord said to him, “Now you Pharisees make the OUTSIDE OF THE CUP and DISH CLEAN, but YOUR INWARD PART is full of [k]GREED and WICKEDNESS. 40FOOLISH ones! Did not He who made the outside make the inside also? 41But rather GIVE ALMS of [l]SUCH THINGS AS YOU HAVE; then indeed ALL THINGS ARE CLEAN TO YOU. 42“But woe to you Pharisees! For you tithe mint and rue and all manner of herbs, and pass by JUSTICE and the LOVE of GOD These you ought to have done, without leaving the others undone. …” The KING, Most Blessed Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 11:39 – 45, NKJV)
Yes “Godliness” (including Holiness + righteous acts) does “not” work nor bear the right fruit if coupled with “faith for money type of false teachings” instead of the Biblical Doctrine of “Contentment”, Verse:
“… 6Now GODLINESS WITH CONTENTMENT IS GREAT GAIN. 7For we brought nothing into this world, [d]and it is certain we can carry nothing out. 8And HAVING FOOD AND CLOTHING, WITH THESE WE SHALL BE CONTENT. 9But those who DESIRE TO BE RICH FALL into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and harmful lusts which drown men in destruction and perdition. …” (1 Timothy 6:6 – 9, NKJV)
Yes even the “… Desire to be Rich …” is enough to slay one’s faith as Verses above describe. Please notice the phrase “… Desire to be Rich …” which is different from the “Love of Money” Verse earlier and both are related. Please don’t be deceived as no one can prove a “new faith” against “What is Written in New Testament Scripture”. Indeed, a “few” find it.
Peace to you
Peace to you
STAY CONNECTED