THE CHRISTMAS STORY

SEARCHING THE SCRIPTURES WITH BOB
Newsletter 173 December 27, 2009

Luke 2:1-20
1 And it came to pass in those days, that there went out a decree from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be taxed.
2 (And this taxing was first made when Cyrenius was governor of Syria.)
3 And all went to be taxed, every one into his own city.
4 And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judaea, unto the city of David, which is called Bethlehem; (because he was of the house and lineage of David:)
5 To be taxed with Mary his espoused wife, being great with child.
6 And so it was, that, while they were there, the days were accomplished that she should be delivered.
7 And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn.
8 And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night.
9 And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid.
10 And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.
11 For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.
12 And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.
13 And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying,
14 Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.
15 And it came to pass, as the angels were gone away from them into heaven, the shepherds said one to another, Let us now go even unto Bethlehem, and see this thing which is come to pass, which the Lord hath made known unto us.
16 And they came with haste, and found Mary, and Joseph, and the babe lying in a manger.
17 And when they had seen it, they made known abroad the saying which was told them concerning this child.
18 And all they that heard it wondered at those things which were told them by the shepherds.
19 But Mary kept all these things, and pondered them in her heart.
20 And the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen, as it was told unto them.

Matthew 2:1-11
1 Now when Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judaea in the days of Herod the king, behold, there came wise men from the east to Jerusalem,
2 Saying, Where is he that is born King of the Jews? for we have seen his star in the east, and are come to worship him.
3 When Herod the king had heard these things, he was troubled, and all Jerusalem with him.
4 And when he had gathered all the chief priests and scribes of the people together, he demanded of them where Christ should be born.
5 And they said unto him, In Bethlehem of Judaea: for thus it is written by the prophet,
6 And thou Bethlehem, in the land of Juda, art not the least among the princes of Juda: for out of thee shall come a Governor, that shall rule my people Israel.
7 Then Herod, when he had privily called the wise men, enquired of them diligently what time the star appeared.
8 And he sent them to Bethlehem, and said, Go and search diligently for the young child; and when ye have found him, bring me word again, that I may come and worship him also.
9 When they had heard the king, they departed; and, lo, the star, which they saw in the east, went before them, till it came and stood over where the young child was.
10 When they saw the star, they rejoiced with exceeding great joy.
11 And when they were come into the house, they saw the young child with Mary his mother, and fell down, and worshipped him: and when they had opened their treasures, they presented unto him gifts; gold, and frankincense and myrrh.

__________




READ THE BIBLE THROUGH AGAIN IN 2010

JANUARY

3rd. Sunday – Genesis 5, 6, Matthew 3, Psalm 3
4th. Monday – Genesis 7, 8, Matthew 4, Proverbs 1:1-7
5th. Tuesday – Genesis 9.10, Matthew 5:1-26, Psalm 4
6th. Wednesday - Genesis 11, 12, Matthew 5:27-48, Psalm 5
7th. Thursday – Genesis 13, 14, 15, Matthew 6. Psalm 6
8th. Friday – Genesis 16, 17, 18, Matthew 7, Proverbs 1:8-19
9th. Saturday – Genesis 19, 20, Matthew 8, Psalm 7:1-9

____________


OUR CHRISTIAN BLOG LINKS

(With links to 623 titles)

GOOGLE TRANSLATOR: The Translator is available only to e-mail blog readers and needs to be activated by scrolling to the very bottom of the monitor screen. With it you may have any of our blogs on the screen translated into one of many languages and you can then copy and forward them to any email address on earth. “Go ye unto all the world.”


http://searchingthescriptureswithbob.blogspot.com
Our weekly Bible Letter
http://47yearsinafrica.blogspot.com
Biographical, with photos
http://whatdoesgodsayaboutthis.blogspot.com
Questions and discussions
http://scripturegems.blogspot.com
Favorite Scripture Quotation
http://salvationtracts.blogspot.com
Representing 70 world languages
http://searchthescriptureswithbob.blogspot.com
Short Bible studies
http://bookletbiblestudies.blogspot.com
Several pages in length
http://phyllistheauthor.blogspot.com
Portions of Phyllis’ 3 published books & more to come



____________


THIS WEEK'S SCRIPTURE

“And Jesus answered him saying, It is written, That man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word of God.”

Luke 4:4





SEND FREE CHRISTIAN EMAIL GREETINGS FROM:

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“I've learned that you can tell a lot about a person by the way he/she handles these three things: a rainy day, lost luggage, and tangled Christmas tree lights."
_______________

GIFT SUGGESTIONS


$12 $12 $12

Phyllis’ first missionary novel has been published, You can order a copy now. Go to or and search for (Feet of Clay – P J Mills) This is the first volume of a series based in Guatemala, Central America. If this one pays the cost, she has 5 more volumes waiting in line. Her book “The Call to Africa” is also still available from Amazon.com. “Some of God’s Children” Any of these may be ordered from Phyllis herself.

THE SCROLL OPENED BY CHRIST JESUS

Newsletter 170 December 6, 2009

Realizing one can do little more than introduce the book of Revelation in the four weekly studies of December, last week I briefly introduced up to the letters to the seven churches of Asia. An earlier study already published, based on Revelation 3:14:22, asks the question, “Is This the Church of Today?” That was study #99. Whether the seven churches represent the condition of the church during seven chronological periods of time, or simply mean to cover a full spectrum of possible faults they represent, really makes little difference. They are there to serve as a warning or encouragement depending on the local congregation from that time onward.

Today, we are blessed to see a glimpse of Heaven through John’s eyes. This vision brings us through the turmoil leading up to the judgment. It opens before the very throne of God, where there clearly is no one worthy who open the scroll and reveal its message, until the very Son of God steps forward and does so.

Revelation 5:5-10 (King James Version)

5 And one of the elders saith unto me, Weep not: behold, the Lion of the tribe of Judah, the Root of David, hath prevailed to open the book, and to loose the seven seals thereof.
(Genesis 49:9, Hebrews 7:14, Isaiah 11:1, Isaiah 11:10, Romans 15:12, Revelation 22:16)

6 And I beheld, and, lo, in the midst of the throne and of the four beasts, and in the midst of the elders, stood a Lamb as it had been slain, having seven horns and seven eyes, which are the seven Spirits of God sent forth into all the earth. (Revelation 4:4, Revelation 5:8, Revelation 5:14, John 1:29, Revelation 5:12, Revelation 13:8, Daniel 8:3, Zechariah 4:9, Revelation 1:4)

7 And he came and took the book out of the right hand of him that sat upon the throne. (Revelation 5:1)

8 And when he had taken the book, the four beasts and four and twenty elders fell down before the Lamb, having every one of them harps, and golden vials full of incense, which are the prayers of saints. (Revelation 4:6, Revelation 5:6, Revelation 5:11, Revelation 5:14, Revelation 4:4, Revelation 5:14, Revelation 4:10, John 1:29, Revelation 5:6, Revelation 5:12, Revelation 13:8, Revelation 14:2, Revelation 15:2, Revelation 15:7, Psalm 141:2, Revelation 8:3)

9 And they sung a new song, saying, Thou art worthy to take the book, and to open the seals thereof: for thou wast slain, and hast redeemed us to God by thy blood out of every kindred, and tongue, and people, and nation; (Psalm 33:3, Psalm 40:3, Psalm 98:1, Psalm 149:1, Isaiah 42:10, Revelation 14:3, Revelation 15:3, Revelation 4:11, Revelation 5:6, Revelation 5:12, Revelation 13:8, 1 Corinthians 6:20, Revelation 14:3, Daniel 3:4, Daniel 5:19, Revelation 7:9, Revelation 10:11, Revelation 11:9, Revelation 13:7, Revelation 14:6, Revelation 17:15)

10 And hast made us unto our God kings and priests: and we shall reign on the earth. (Revelation 1:6, Revelation 3:21, Revelation 20:4)

Only Christ Jesus is worthy to break the seals and reveal what lay ahead, for only by his sacrificial death can anyone be saved, for “all have sinned and fallen short.” (Romans 3:23) Underlying the message of all the lambs that had been sacrificed since the law was delivered to Moses and the Tabernacle of the wilderness wanderings, and ultimately of the Temple in Jerusalem were dedicated, was the fact that Christ Jesus would be the final sacrificial lamb. Only through Him, can any man be saved. As he said, “I am the way, the truth and the life, no man cometh unto the Father but by me.” (John 14:6) Being a scroll, it was sealed at seven intervals. These are opened one by one, leading up to the judgment and the glory of Heaven, prepare and reserved for the Saints, the family of God.

__________




READ THE BIBLE THROUGH AGAIN IN 2009

DECEMBER

13th. Sunday – Nehemiah 1, 2, Revelation 10, Psalm 142
14th. Monday – Nehemiah 3, 4, Revelation 11, Proverbs 30:11-23
15th. Tuesday – Nehemiah 5, 6, Revelation 12, Psalm 143
16th. Wednesday - Nehemiah 7, Revelation 13, Psalm 144:1-8
17 th. Thursday – Nehemiah 8, 9, Revelation 14:1-8, Psalm 144:9-15
18th. Friday – Nehemiah 10-11, Revelation 14:9-20, Proverbs 30:24-33
19th. Saturday – Nehemiah 12, Revelation 15, Psalm 145:1-7



_________


OUR CHRISTIAN BLOG SEARCHES

(With links to 620 titles)

GOOGLE TRANSLATOR: The Translator is available only to e-mail blog readers and needs to be activated by scrolling to the very bottom of the monitor screen. With it you may have any of our blogs on the screen translated into one of many languages and you can then copy and forward them to any email address on earth. “Go ye unto all the world.”


http://searchingthescriptureswithbob.blogspot.com
Our weekly Bible Letter
http://47yearsinafrica.blogspot.com
Biographical, with photos
http://whatdoesgodsayaboutthis.blogspot.com
Questions and discussions
http://scripturegems.blogspot.com
Favorite Scripture Quotation
http://salvationtracts.blogspot.com
Representing 70 world languages
http://searchthescriptureswithbob.blogspot.com
Short Bible studies
http://bookletbiblestudies.blogspot.com
Several pages in length
http://phyllistheauthor.blogspot.com
Portions of Phyllis’ 3 published books & more to come



____________


THIS WEEK'S SCRIPTURE

“I know thy works, that thou art neither cold nor hot: I would that thou wert cold or hot. So then because thou art lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will spew thee out of my mouth.”

Revelation 2:15-16


_____________



SEND FREE CHRISTIAN EMAIL GREETINGS FROM:

ecards@dayspring.com

3-movies@dayspring.com

________________

REPENTANCE ??

"Bless me, Father, for I have sinned. For years I've been stealing building supplies from the lumberyard where I work."

"How much did you take?"

"Enough to build my own house and my son's house. And houses for our two daughters and our cottage at the lake."

"This is very serious. I'll have to think of a far-reaching penance for you. Have you ever done a retreat?"

"No, Father, I haven't. But if you got the blueprints I can get the lumber."

_______________

CHRISTMAS GIFT SUGGESTIONS


$12 $12 $12

Need a Christmas present? Phyllis’ first missionary novel has been published, You can order a copy now. Go to and search for (Feet of Clay – P J Mills) This is the first volume of a series based in Guatemala, Central America. If this one pays the cost, she has 5 more volumes waiting in line. Her book “The Call to Africa” is also still available from Amazon.com. “Some of God’s Children” Any of these may be ordered from Phyllis herself.

Once you have read the book, Please go back to the entry in Amazon, or the web search of the title and the author and after you have double clicked on the cover of the book there, you will find there is much more. Scroll down to “Create your own book review” and enter a note of appreciation and, if there is a space for them, the number of stars you rate it. These reviews are vital to good sales! Under the cover picture Google has made a link to their own write up, which has pages from the published book. They also encourage asking for it to be made available in Kindle e-book format.

UNDERSTANDING THE FUTURE

Newsletter 169 December 6, 2009

As I was reading the scripture from Daniel 2, concerning the dream of Nebuchadnezzar and then the vision of John, on Patmos, recorded here, It seemed more than coincidence that they were both about the same era. Both of them contain a panoramic view of the latter days. They both end with the second coming of Christ. Daniel explains it starting with Nebuchadnezzar’s dream, the beginning of the period, while John is writing from the end of the same period of time, but relating it from the viewpoint of the church.

Revelation is the only book of the Bible which promises so great blessings upon those who read it. It is prophetic, written to a people who hunger to know what is to come to be. It promises great punishment for those who meddle with its content, who add to or remove portions; yet, so few people have really read it. Why? Yes, it is sometimes difficult to completely understand, but so was Daniel to those who read it then.

God used the seven churches of Asia as an example. There were seven postal districts in this which is the same as Turkey, today. Verse one tells us that this is shortly to come to pass. Since it is a panoramic view, he means to begin to unfold. They would roll the scroll they were reading, as we pan with a camera today. They show the presence of the Holy Spirit in the church throughout, no doubt using the Menorah, which has seven lamps even as did the candle stand in the tabernacle. It has been used by the Jewish nation throughout the same time span of history.. Seven is a symbol of completeness. We see that figure throughout the Bible. The light represents the presence of God, as in the Shekinah cloud of light. We read of it at the dedication of the Tabernacle, and of the Temple. We see it on the mount when Moses received the law, it was in the cloud that led them in the wilderness wanderings. God was with them, even when they sinned and had to be punished.

Revelation 1:1-8

1 The Revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave unto him, to show unto his servants things which must shortly come to pass; and he sent and signified it by his angel unto his servant John:

2 Who bare record of the word of God, and of the testimony of Jesus Christ, and of all things that he saw.

3 Blessed is he that reads, and they that hear the words of this prophecy, and keep those things which are written therein: for the time is at hand.

4 John to the seven churches which are in Asia: Grace be unto you, and peace, from him which is, and which was, and which is to come; and from the seven Spirits which are before his throne;

5 And from Jesus Christ, who is the faithful witness, and the first begotten of the dead, and the prince of the kings of the earth. Unto him that loved us, and washed us from our sins in his own blood,

6 And hath made us kings and priests unto God and his Father; to him be glory and dominion for ever and ever. Amen.

7 Behold, he cometh with clouds; and every eye shall see him, and they also which pierced him: and all kindreds of the earth shall wail because of him. Even so, Amen.

8 I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the ending, says the Lord, which is, and which was, and which is to come, the Almighty.

This message came to Jesus, who was, who is, and who is to come. John told us in the Gospel of John, 1:1-3. That he was in the beginning with God, and he made all things. He created all things, he came to earth from His Father, John 3:16-17, and he is coming back for His church when he will separate the good from the bad. When he used the Alpha and the Omega, he used the Greek alphabet one unit in full from A to Z.

__________




READ THE BIBLE THROUGH AGAIN IN 2009

DECEMBER

6th. Sunday – Daniel 11, 12, Revelation 4, Proverbs 29:19-27
7th. Monday – Ezra 1:-2:42, Revelation 5, Psalm 139:9-16
8th. Tuesday – Ezra 2:43-3:13, Revelation 6, Psalm 139:17-24
9th. Wednesday - Ezra 4, 5, Revelation 7, Psalm 140:1-5
10th. Thursday – Ezra 6, 7, Revelation 8, Proverbs 30:1-10
11th. Friday – Ezra 8, 9, Revelation 9:1-11, Psalm 140:6-13
12th. Saturday – Ezra 10, Revelation 9:12-21, Psalm 141

_________


OUR CHRISTIAN BLOG SEARCHES

(With links to 619 titles)

GOOGLE TRANSLATOR: The Translator is available only to e-mail blog readers and needs to be activated by scrolling to the very bottom of the monitor screen. With it you may have any of our blogs on the screen translated into one of many languages and you can then copy and forward them to any email address on earth. “Go ye unto all the world.”


http://searchingthescriptureswithbob.blogspot.com
Our weekly Bible Letter
http://47yearsinafrica.blogspot.com
Biographical, with photos
http://whatdoesgodsayaboutthis.blogspot.com
Questions and discussions
http://scripturegems.blogspot.com
Favorite Scripture Quotation
http://salvationtracts.blogspot.com
Representing 70 world languages
http://searchthescriptureswithbob.blogspot.com
Short Bible studies
http://bookletbiblestudies.blogspot.com
Several pages in length
http://phyllistheauthor.blogspot.com
Portions of Phyllis’ 3 published books & more to come



____________


THIS WEEK'S SCRIPTURE

"To him that overcometh will I give to eat of the tree of life, which is in the midst of the paradise of God”

Revelation 2:10

_____________


SEND FREE CHRISTIAN EMAIL GREETINGS FROM:

ecards@dayspring.com

3-movies@dayspring.com

________________

"An Atheist in the woods"

An atheist was walking through the woods.

"What majestic trees!"
"What powerful rivers!"
"What beautiful animals!"
He said to himself.

As he was walking alongside the river, he heard a rustling
in the bushes behind him. He turned to look.

A 7-foot grizzly bear was charging towards him.

The man ran as fast as he could up the path. He looked
over his shoulder and saw that the bear was closing in on
him. He looked over his shoulder again, and the bear was
even closer. He tripped and fell on the ground. He rolled
over to pick himself up but saw that the bear was right on
top of him, reaching for him with his left and raising his
right paw to strike him.

At that instant the Atheist cried out, "Oh my God!".

Time Stopped.
The bear froze.
The forest was silent.

As a bright light shone upon the man, a voice came out
of the sky. "You deny my existence for all these years,
teach others I don't exist, and even credit creation to a
cosmic accident.. Do you expect me to help you out of
this predicament? Am I to count you as a believer?"

The atheist looked directly into the light and said, "It
would be hypocritical of me to suddenly ask you to treat
me as a Christian now, but perhaps you could make the
BEAR a Christian?"

"Very Well", said the voice.

The light went out.. The sounds of the forest resumed..
And the bear dropped his right paw, brought both paws
together, bowed his head & spoke:


"Lord bless this food, which I am about to receive from thy
bounty through Christ our Lord, Amen."
_______________

CHRISTMAS GIFT SUGGESTIONS


$12 $12 $12

Need a Christmas present? Phyllis’ first missionary novel has been published, You can order a copy now. Go to and search for (Feet of Clay – P J Mills) This is the first volume of a series based in Guatemala, Central America. If this one pays the cost, she has 5 more volumes waiting in line. Her book “The Call to Africa” is also still available from Amazon.com. “Some of God’s Children” Any of these may be ordered from Phyllis herself.

Once you have read the book, Please go back to the entry in Amazon, or the web search of the title and the author and after you have double clicked on the cover of the book there, you will find there is much more. Scroll down to “Create your own book review” and enter a note of appreciation and, if there is a space for them, the number of stars you rate it. These reviews are vital to good sales! Under the cover picture Google has made a link to their own write up, which has pages from the published book. They also encourage asking for it to be made available in Kindle e-book format.

THANKSGIVING

Newsletter 168 November 29, 2009



Psalm 106: 1-3

1 Praise ye the LORD. O give thanks unto the LORD; for he is good: for his mercy endureth for ever.

2 Who can utter the mighty acts of the LORD? who can shew forth all his praise?

3 Blessed are they that keep judgment, and he that doeth righteousness at all times.

Let us praise God for it is he who provides for His own.

Thanks giving is a harvest time festival pf American origin, but also celebrated in other lands as well, though not necessarily on the same date, nor as a national holiday. Traditionally, it is a time of homecoming.

However, as children of God, we have so very much to be thankful for. First, we need to be thankful every day that He loves us so much that He was willing to give us His Son as a sacrifice for our sins so that we can be with Him forever. He did not have to do that, but he did it anyway! John 3:16 assures us of that fact. ”For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” Believers need not perish! If they accept the Lordship of Jesus Christ, they will realize also that all power has been given unto him, both in Heaven and on earth. Matthew 28:18. And they will hasten to accept that this includes all of us. His command, “Go ye unto all the world, and preach the gospel to every nation. He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned.” Mark 16:15-16. That command is an edict of an absolute Monarch. No greater power exists.

We can be thankful that Jesus has gone to prepare a place for us in his father’s house. We don’t know what it will be like, but rest assured, it will make anything available here seem insignificant. It is there waiting his sending for us.

We can be thankful for his concern that, as his servants, we have all our needs, even here, are assured. Our food, our clothing, our shelter, are provided, even as he provides for the animals, the flowers of the fields, and the birds of the air, we can be sure that he will care for us as well. That assurance is for his servants, not everyone, everywhere. This is the time that has been set aside for us to give thanks, and to pray for one another and for our leaders and land.

__________




READ THE BIBLE THROUGH AGAIN IN 2009

NOVEMBER

29th. Sunday – Habakkuk 1, 2, 3, 2 Peter 2, Psalm 135 13-21
30th. Monday – Obadiah, 2 Peter 3, Psalm 136:1-12
DECEMBER
1st. Tuesday – Daniel 1, 2, Revelation 1, Psalm 136:13-25
2nd. Wednesday – Daniel 3, 4, Revelation 2:1-17, Proverbs 29:10-18
3rd. Thursday – Daniel 5, 6, Revelation 2:18-29, Psalm 137
4th. Friday – Daniel 7, 8, Revelation 3:1-10, Psalm 138
5th. Saturday – Daniel 9, 10, Revelation 3:11-22, Psalm 139:1-8

_________


OUR CHRISTIAN BLOG SEARCHES

(With links to 618 titles)

GOOGLE TRANSLATOR: The Translator is available only to e-mail blog readers and needs to be activated by scrolling to the very bottom of the monitor screen. With it you may have any of our blogs on the screen translated into one of many languages and you can then copy and forward them to any email address on earth. “Go ye unto all the world.”


http://searchingthescriptureswithbob.blogspot.com
Our weekly Bible Letter
http://47yearsinafrica.blogspot.com
Biographical, with photos
http://whatdoesgodsayaboutthis.blogspot.com
Questions and discussions
http://scripturegems.blogspot.com
Favorite Scripture Quotation
http://salvationtracts.blogspot.com
Representing 70 world languages
http://searchthescriptureswithbob.blogspot.com
Short Bible studies
http://bookletbiblestudies.blogspot.com
Several pages in length
http://phyllistheauthor.blogspot.com
Portions of Phyllis’ 3 published books & more to come



____________


THIS WEEK'S SCRIPTURE

"If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.”

1 John 1:9

_____________


SEND FREE CHRISTIAN EMAIL GREETINGS FROM:

ecards@dayspring.com

3-movies@dayspring.com

________________

Angelic Assistance?



________________

CHRISTMAS GIFT SUGGESTIONS




PERSONAL FAMILY NOTES


Need a Christmas present? Phyllis’ first missionary novel has been published, You can order a copy now. Go to and search for (Feet of Clay – P J Mills) This is the first volume of a series based in Guatemala, Central America. If this one pays the cost, she has 5 more volumes waiting in line. Her book “The Call to Africa” is also still available from Amazon.com. “Some of God’s Children” Any of these may be ordered from Phyllis herself.

Once you have read the book, Please go back to the entry in Amazon, or the web search of the title and the author and after you have double clicked on the cover of the book there, you will find there is much more. Scroll down to “Create your own book review” and enter a note of appreciation and, if there is a space for them, the number of stars you rate it. These reviews are vital to good sales! Under the cover picture Google has made a link to their own write up, which has pages from the published book. They also encourage asking for it to be made available in Kindle e-book format.


Bob and Phyllis

THE RACE OF FAITH

Newsletter 167  November 22, 2009

======================================================

Even though the author, probably Paul, is talking about faith, and not a marathon, he has chosen to use a marathon type race to represent the Christian’s life from beginning to end.

We have all witnessed, on television if not live, triathlon or marathon races. The Greek culture, under which the writer of Hebrews lived, placed great emphasis on this type of sporting events. They still attract thousands of both participants, and also exuberant fans. The annual marathon in South Africa draws people from all over the world every year and most of the day the race is about all that there is to watch on television. I always found it fascinating to see the escorting motorcycles, each with a cameraman sitting backwards with his camera balanced in his hands so that he can keep it focused on the lead runners. He does not want the watchers of his channel to miss a single thing. His pictures will be sent by satellite around the world.. To win a gold or bronze metal is indeed a great honor.

Like the crowds which line the marathon route, and those watching television, the book of Hebrews likens every Christian life to that of the runner in the marathon. All are surrounded by a great crowd of witnesses. “we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses.” We need to be aware that nothing we do in life is unobserved. We are an open book. This is made clear when Jesus says, “I say unto you, that likewise joy shall be in heaven over one sinner that repenteth” Luke 15:7; the same is repeated in Luke 15:10 “Likewise I say unto you, there is joy in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner that repenteth.” Following this, he tells us the beautiful story of the loving father (God) over his prodigal son who repented and returned home. Certainly God and the angels are aware of all if they rejoice and throw a party over even one person who repents! Imagine their joy when three thousand repented and were baptized on that fist Pentecost after the resurrection of Christ, when the church came into being!

“Let us lay aside every sin” as did they.

Hebrews 12:1-2 (King James Version)
1 Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us, (Romans 13:12, Ephesians 4:22, 1 Corinthians 9:24, Galatians 2:2, Hebrews 10:16

2 Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God. (Hebrews 2:20, Philippians 2:8, Hebrews 2:9, 1 Corinthians 1:18, I Corinthians 1:23, Hebrews 13:13, Hebrews 1:3)

One watches the struggles of the mass of the runners. Some will give up. How we wept when some struggled and then gave up in the marathon. We suffer with them, but then we watch as runner after runner, takes the hand of a weaker partner in his group, and encourages them to keep trying. You can feel his concern. Oh that all Christians had that same concern to assist and encourage, even if it means that it is harder in that they may lose their front runner position. In the run of faith, one does not lose because of helping one another. He gains, for the point is to finish and to be able to say with Paul on that great day: (2 Timothy 4:7-8) “I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith: Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing.”

What a glorious day that will be when the church is all united as one. Our savior died for each one of us, that we might have life with Him.


__________




READ THE BIBLE THROUGH AGAIN IN 2009

NOVEMBER

22nd. Sunday – Ezekiel 39-40:1-31, James 5, Psalm 131
23rd. Monday – Ezekiel 40:32-41:26, 1 Peter 1, Psalm 132
24th. Tuesday – Ezekiel 42, 43, 1 Peter 2, Proverbs 28:15-28
25th. Wednesday – Ezekiel 44, 45, 1 Peter 3, Psalm 133
26th. Thursday - Ezekiel 46, 47, 1 Peter 4, Psalm 134
27th. Friday – Ezekiel 48, 1 Peter 5, Psalm 135:1-12
28th. Saturday – Joel 1, 2, 3, 2 Peter 1, Proverbs 28:1-9

_________


OUR CHRISTIAN BLOG SEARCHES

(With links to 612 titles)

GOOGLE TRANSLATOR: The Translator is available only to e-mail blog readers and needs to be activated by scrolling to the very bottom of the monitor screen. With it you may have any of our blogs on the screen translated into one of many languages and you can then copy and forward them to any email address on earth. “Go ye unto all the world.”


http://searchingthescriptureswithbob.blogspot.com
Our weekly Bible Letter
http://47yearsinafrica.blogspot.com
Biographical, with photos
http://whatdoesgodsayaboutthis.com
Questions and discussions
http://scripturegems.blogspot.com
Favorite Scripture Quotation
http://salvationtracts.blogspot.com
Representing 70 world languages
http://searchthescriptureswithbob.blogspot.com
Short Bible studies
http://bookletbiblestudies.blogspot.com
Several pages in length
http://phyllistheauthor.blogspot.com
Portions of Phyllis’ 3 published books & more to come



____________


THIS WEEK'S SCRIPTURE

"Be not forgetful to entertain strangers; for thereby some have entertained angels unawares.”

Hebrews 13:2

_____________


SEND FREE CHRISTIAN EMAIL GREETINGS FROM:

ecards@dayspring.com

3-movies@dayspring.com
________________

Angelic Assistance?
An old-time pastor was riding furiously down the road, hurrying to get to church on time. Suddenly, his horse stumbled and threw him to the ground.

Lying in the dirt, his body wracked with pain, the pastor called out, “All you angels in heaven, help me get up on my horse!”

With extraordinary strength, he leaped onto the horse’s back—and fell off the other side.

From the ground again, he called out, “All right, just half of you angels this time!”

________________

CHRISTMAS GIFT SUGGESTIONS

Need a Christmas present? Phyllis’ first missionary novel has been published, You can order a copy now. Go to and search for (Feet of Clay – P J Mills) This is the first volume of a series based in Guatemala, Central America. If this one pays the cost, she has 5 more volumes waiting in line. Her book “The Call to Africa” is also still available from Amazon.com. “Some of God’s Children” Any of these may be ordered from Phyllis herself.

Once you have read the book, Please go back to the entry in Amazon, or the web search of the title and the author and after you have double clicked on the cover of the book there, you will find there is much more. Scroll down to “Create your own book review” and enter a note of appreciation and, if there is a space for them, the number of stars you rate it. These reviews are vital to good sales! Under the cover picture Google has made a link to their own write up, which has pages from the published book. They also encourage asking for it to be made available in Kindle e-book format.

THE AMAZING SWORD OF FAITH

Newsletter 165
November 8, 2009

======================================================

I have a healthy respect for really sharp steel. Just researching and reading about the various types of swords gave me cold chills. It brought back the memory of the time that I was trimming stationery that I had printed on a type of rippled paper, and I pulled the stack from the paper guillotine forgetting that the stack was no longer compressed. The blade sliced through a finger nail and the end of my finger like hot butter. The memory of that cut has stayed with me so that when I had to remove that long blade and replace it with a previously sharpened blade was always very carefully done. Those words, “quick, and powerful, and sharper than any two edged sword” have a intensely powerful meaning to me. That blade had only one edge, but two edges in the hands of an expert; devastating. I would be afraid to handle it, even by a safe handle.

Hebrews 4:12-16 (King James Version)

12 For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any two edged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. (Jeremiah 23:29, Ephesians 5:26, Hebrews 6:5, 2 Peter 1:23, Acts 7:38, 1 Thessalonians 2:13, Ephesians 6:17, 1 Thessalonians 5:23, John 12:48, 1 Corinthians 13:44)

13 Neither is there any creature that is not manifest in his sight: but all things are naked and opened unto the eyes of him with whom we have to do. (2 Chronicles 16:9, Psalm 33:13-15, Job 26:6)

14 Seeing then that we have a great high priest, that is passed into the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast our profession. (Hebrews 2:17, Ephesians 4:10, Hebrews 8:20, Hebrews 8:1, Hebrews 9:24, Matthew 4:3, Hebrews 1:2, Hebrews 6:6, Hebrews 7:3, Hebrews 10:29, Hebrews 3:1)

15 For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin. (Hebrews 2:17, Hebrew 2:18, 2 Corinthians 5:21, Hebrews 7:26)

16 Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need. (Hebrews 7:19, Hebrews 3:6)

A missionary preacher friend of mine once used this first verse in a sermon, and without thinking, started to explain the difference between the soul and spirit, and how they could be separated. He immediately realized that he was in trouble. In other places they are sometimes treated as synonyms and are used interchangeably. There are things which would be totally impossible to man, but are totally possible for God. What we can not do with the very best of our tool, in this case swords, God can do without any such tools at all. He is comparing the Word with a sword of faith, not just an ordinary sword, but a double edged sword! He has provided with someth8ng that we must not take for granted.

It can separate those fleeting thoughts we all occasionally have, from the well thought out plots of the professional thief. Nothing is hidden from God.

The King James Version says, “open … to the eyes of him”. This is the only place that this particular word in the Greek, is used. It pertains to baring the neck as for the sword, . We will not only be judged by the Word, but by the Word in the hands of God from whom nothing is hidden. The person who knows the Word, but has rejected it, is without hope.

Our high priest is not a mere man here on earth, He is one who arose from the dead and after a period of teaching commissioned his ambassadors to mankind and ascended back to be with God where he is even now preparing a place for his own. We have one who understands. He came to live among us as a man, but arose from the grave, restored to his heavenly body. He knows, he was one of us. He understands all our weaknesses.

He is coming again; perhaps very soon. We are even today living the same problems of the final Laodicean church, rich but spiritually lukewarm, miserable, poor, blind and naked in his sight. (Revelation 4:17-18) , but still he loves us. (Revelation 4:19-20)
__________




READ THE BIBLE THROUGH AGAIN IN 2009

NOVEMBER

8th. Sunday – Ezekiel 12, 13, Hebrews 8, Proverbs 27:1-10
9th. Monday – Ezekiel 14, 15, Hebrews 9:1-14, Psalm 121
10th. Tuesday – Ezekiel 16, Hebrews 9:15-28, Psalm 122
11th. Wednesday – Ezekiel 17, 18, Hebrews 10:1-18, Psalm 123
12th. Thursday - Ezekiel 19, 20, Hebrews 10:19-39, Proverbs 27:11-20
13th. Friday – Ezekiel 21, 22, Hebrews 11:1-22, Psalm 124
14th. Saturday – Ezekiel 23, Hebrews 11:23-40, Psalm 125

_________


OUR CHRISTIAN BLOG SEARCHES

(With links to 593 titles)

GOOGLE TRANSLATOR: The Translator is available only to e-mail blog readers and needs to be activated by scrolling to the very bottom of the monitor screen. With it you may have any of our blogs on the screen translated into one of many languages and you can then copy and forward them to any email address on earth. “Go ye unto all the world.”


http://searchingthescriptureswithbob.blogspot.com
Our weekly Bible Letter
http://47yearsinafrica.blogspot.com
Biographical, with photos
http://scripturegems.blogspot.com
Favorite Scripture Quotation
http://salvationtracts.blogspot.com
Representing 70 world languages
http://searchthescriptureswithbob.blogspot.com
Short Bible studies
http://bookletbiblestudies.blogspot.com
Several pages in length
http://phyllistheauthor.blogspot.com
Portions of Phyllis’ 3 published books & more to come



____________


THIS WEEK'S SCRIPTURE

"God is light, and in him is no darkness at all”

1 John 1:5

_____________


SEND FREE CHRISTIAN EMAIL GREETINGS FROM:

ecards@dayspring.com

3-movies@dayspring.com

________________

Things We've Learned From The Movies
14. Once applied, lipstick will never rub off-even while scuba diving.

15. You're very likely to survive any battle in any war unless you make the mistake of showing someone a picture of your sweetheart back home.

16. Should you wish to pass yourself off as a German or Russian officer, it will not be necessary to speak the language. A German or Russian accent will do. (It used to be an English accent for the German.)

17. The Eiffel Tower can be seen from any window in Paris.

18. A man will show no pain while taking the most ferocious beating but will wince when a woman tries to clean his wounds.

19. If a large pane of glass is visible, someone will be thrown through it before long.

20. If staying in a haunted house, women should investigate any strange noises in their most revealing underwear.

21. Word processors never display a cursor on screen but will always say: Enter Password Now.

22. Even when driving down a perfectly straight road, it is necessary to turn the steering wheel vigorously from left to right every few moments. Tires will squeal on any surface, at any speed.

23. All bombs are fitted with electronic timing devices with large red readouts so you know exactly when they're going to go off.

24. A detective can only solve a case once he has been suspended from duty.

25. If you decide to start dancing in the street, everyone you meet will know all the steps.

26. Police departments give their officers personality tests to make sure they are deliberately assigned a partner who is their total opposite.

27. When they are alone, all foreign military officers prefer to speak to each other in English.


________________





PERSONAL FAMILY NOTES

Need a Christmas present? Phyllis’ first missionary novel has been published, You can order a copy now. Go to and search for (Feet of Clay – P J Mills) This is the first volume of a series based in Guatemala, Central America. If this one pays the cost, she has 5 more volumes waiting in line. Her book “The Call to Africa” is also still available from Amazon.com. “Some of God’s Children” Any of these may be ordered from Phyllis herself.


Bob and Phyllis

GOD GAVE YOU A MIND, USE IT!

Newsletter 164
November 1, 2009

======================================================

“Think on these things” and “These were more noble than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily, whether these things were so,” (Acts 17:11) come to mind when we read our text for today. God gave us a mind, and he has every desire that we make use of it to determine if what we hear is really in His Word. Just because something is published on line, or printed in a book or leaflet, or we hear it from our Bible teacher, or from the pulpit, does not mean that it is accurate. Take notes if your memory is not so reliable; look it up in your Bible, and check it in its context. Read more than just the one verse. The Bereans were thinking about what they were being taught, and they are remembered for that yet today. They were wise. Those two immaculately dressed young men at your door, may be the bearers of a false doctrine, as may be the two witnesses at your door on a Sunday morning. Try the spirit that sent them with the Word. Ask them if they believe that Jesus is the Christ the Son of God, and see how quickly they either answer saying “a son of a god” or suddenly remember that they are late for an appointment elsewhere.

JOHN, THE BELOVED APOSTLE WROTE:

1 John 4:1-6 (King James Version)

1 Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world. (3 John11, Jeremiah 29:8, 1 Corinthians 12:10, 1 Thessalonians 5:20.2 Thessalonians 2:2, Jeremiah 14:14, 2 Peter 2:1, 1 John 2:18)

2 Hereby know ye the Spirit of God: Every spirit that confesseth that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is of God: (1 Corinthians 12:3, 1 John 2:23, John 1:14, 1 John 1:2)

3 And every spirit that confesseth not that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is not of God: and this is that spirit of antichrist, whereof ye have heard that it should come; and even now already is it in the world. (1 John 2:22, 2 John 7, 1 John 2:18, 1 John 2:22, 2 Thessalonians 2:3-7, 1 John 2:18)

4 Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them: because greater is he that is in you, than he that is in the world. (1 John 2:1, 1 John 2:13, Romans 8:31, 1 John 3:20, John 12:31)

5 They are of the world: therefore speak they of the world, and the world heareth them. (John 15:19, John 17:14, John 17:16)

6 We are of God: he that knoweth God heareth us; he that is not of God heareth not us. Hereby know we the spirit of truth, and the spirit of error. (John 8:23, 1 John 4:4, John 8:47, John 10:3, John 18:37, 1 Corinthians 14:37, John 14:17, 1 Timothy 4:1)

JOHN GIVES US TWO RULES TO USE AS A TEST

Just as all the world is either “saved” or “lost,” all are either still sinners, and therefore can not enter Heaven, or their sins are forgiven, and they can look forward to being in Heaven for ever. There are also teachers inspired by the Spirit of God, and there are those who are inspired by the Demonic spirit of Satan.

THE SPIRIT OF GOD

1. “Hereby know ye the Spirit of God: Every spirit that confesses that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is of God:” (1 John 4:2)

THE SPIRIT OF ANTICHRIST

2. “And every spirit that confesseth not that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is not of God: and this is that spirit of antichrist, whereof ye have heard that it should come; and even now already is it in the world.” (1 John 4:3)

“Hereby know we the spirit of truth, and the spirit of error.” (1 John 4:6).

__________


READ THE BIBLE THROUGH AGAIN IN 2009

NOVEMBER

1st. Sunday – Lamentations 1, 2, Hebrews 1, Psalm 119:137-144
2nd. Monday – Lamentations 3, Hebrews 2, Psalm 119:145-152
3rd. Tuesday – Lamentations 4, 5, Hebrews 3, Psalm 119:153-160
4th. Wednesday – Ezekiel 1, 2, 3, Hebrews 4, Proverbs 26:21-28
5th.. Thursday - Ezekiel 4, 5, 6, Hebrews 5, Psalm 119:161-168
6th. Friday – Ezekiel 7, 8, Hebrews 6, Psalm 119:169-178
7th. Saturday – Ezekiel 9, 10, 11, Hebrews 7, Psalm 120

_________



OUR CHRISTIAN BLOG SEARCHES
(With links to 596 titles)

GOOGLE TRANSLATOR: The Translator is available only to e-mail blog readers and needs to be activated by scrolling to the very bottom of the monitor screen. With it you may have this and all blogs on the screen translated into one of many languages and then you can copy and forward them to anyone on earth who uses that language. “Go ye unto all the world.”


http://searchingthescriptureswithbob.blogspot.com
Our weekly Bible Letter
http://47yearsinafrica.blogspot.com
Biographical, with photos
http://scripturegems.blogspot.com
Favorite Scripture Quotation
http://salvationtracts.blogspot.com
Representing 70 world languages
http://searchthescriptureswithbob.blogspot.com
Short Bible studies
http://bookletbiblestudies.blogspot.com
Several pages in length
http://phyllistheauthor.blogspot.com
Portions of Phyllis’ 3 published books & more to come



____________


THIS WEEK'S SCRIPTURE

"God is light, and in him is no darkness at all”

1 John 1:5

_____________


SEND FREE CHRISTIAN GREETINGS FROM:

ecards@dayspring.com

3-movies@dayspring.com

________________

DIFFERENCE
A lady bought two horses, and could never remember which was which. A neighbor suggested that she cut the tail of one horse and that worked great until the other horse got his tail caught in a bush. It tore just right and looked exactly like the other horse’s tail and our friend was stuck again. The neighbor suggested she notch the ear of one horse. That worked fine until the other horse caught his ear on a barbed wire fence. Once again our friend couldn’t tell them apart. The neighbor suggested she measure them for height. When she did, she was very pleased to find that the white horse was two inches taller than the black one

________________



PERSONAL FAMILY NOTES

Need a Christmas present? Phyllis’ first missionary novel has been published, You can order a copy now. Go to and search for (Feet of Clay – P J Mills) This is the first volume of a series based in Guatemala, Central America. If this one pays the cost, she has 5 more volumes waiting in line. Her book “The Call to Africa” is also still available from Amazon.com.

HOW WE OUGHT TO PRAY

Newsletter 163
October 25, 2009

==================================================

Judging strictly by the title, you might expect this to be the answer to the apostle’s question to Jesus, “Lord, teach us to pray.” But, it is not.

It is God speaking through Paul, a letter from prison to his beloved brothers to encourage them in the times of stress they were, and would continue to experience. The answer to their needs is prayer.

Like all mankind, their master had once been of the world, worldly. In other words, they were under Satan. We are all under someone, and Paul is reminding them that some of them had been in slavery to sin. Then it was their Roman conquerors, but today it may be alcohol, drugs, prescribed or other. It may be greed, anger, or pleasure. There are so many fronts, but back of them all hovers the ruler of this world, Satan. Remember that Satan said to Jesus, I will give you the world if you will just worship me. That was, of course, an empty promise if there ever was one. If Jesus had fallen for that, he would have just been falling under Satan’s power and have accomplished nothing at all.

The alternate is to make Christ our master, and thus be born into the family of God. We are still answerable to someone, but this is one who so loved us that He sent His own son to offer us salvation through his own life blood. He alone is completely just. John 3:16-17.
The master of all Christians is Jesus Christ. There are only two masters, one totally good, and one totally evil.

Colossians 4:1-6 (King James Version)

1 Masters, give unto your servants that which is just and equal; knowing that ye also have a Master in heaven. (Ephesians 6:9)

2 Continue in prayer, and watch in the same with thanksgiving; (Acts 1:14, Ephesians 6:18, Romans 12:12, 1 Timothy 5:17, Luke 11:5-10, Luke 18:1-8, Matthew 26:41, Mark 14:38, Luke 21:36)

3 Withal praying also for us, that God would open unto us a door of utterance, to speak the mystery of Christ, for which I am also in bonds: (Ephesians 6:19, Acts 14:27, 2 Timothy 4:2, Ephesians 3:3-4, Ephesians 6:19, Ephesians 6:20, 1 Corinthians 16:8-9, 2 Corinthians 2:12)

4 That I may make it manifest, as I ought to speak. (Ephesians 6:20)

5 Walk in wisdom toward them that are without, redeeming the time. (Ephesians 5:15, Mark 4:11, Ephesians 5:16, Ephesians 5:15-16)

6 Let your speech be always with grace, seasoned with salt, that ye may know how ye ought to answer every man. (Ephesians 4:29, Mark 9:50, 1 Peter 3:15)

But, what does God expect of his servants? Most of all, he wants us to keep in contact. He wants to hear the voice of his children. He wants us to read his letters to us over and over again. He wants us to be someone he can look to with pride. He wants us to meet with him around his table every week. If we are not there, it will grieve him. Remember that David had a place at Saul’s table, and when he was not there, Saul knew it. God knows it, and is grieved when we are not there. Jesus, who is even now at God’s right hand, promised, “I go to prepare a place for you.” He is making ready a very special place where all his children can be near him forever.

Until the time comes when he returns for us, let us be joyfully praising him with thanksgiving in our hearts and on our lips. Let us give thanks for our leaders to whom he has given authority over us.

Let us pray that we may speak as we ought to speak, and able to answer the questions, of those about us. His word tells us how, and His holy spirit is here to act as our individual personal We are promised this gift at the time of our baptism, not before, and if we are not baptized, we shall not receive it. Acts 2:38. “…and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.” God keeps His promises.
__________




READ THE BIBLE THROUGH AGAIN IN 2009

OCTOBER

25th. Sunday – Ecclesiastes 4, 5, 6, 1 John 2:15-29, Psalm 119:97-104
26th. Monday – Ecclesiastes 7, 8, 9, 1 John 3, Psalm 119:105-112
27th. Tuesday – Ecclesiastes 10, 11, 12, 1 John 4, Proverbs 26:1-10
28th. Wednesday – Song of Solomon 1, 2, 1 John 5, Psalm 119:113-120
29th. Thursday – Song of Solomon 2, 4, 2 John, Psalm 119:121-128
30th. Friday – Song of Solomon 5, 6, 3 John, Psalm 119:129-136
31st. Saturday – Song of Solomon 7, 8, Jude, Proverbs 26:11-20

_________



OUR CHRISTIAN BLOG SEARCHES
(With links to 595 titles)

GOOGLE TRANSLATOR: The Translator is available only to e-mail blog readers and needs to be activated by scrolling to the very bottom of the monitor screen. With it you may have this and all blogs on the screen translated into one of many languages and then you can forward them to anyone on earth who uses that language. “Go ye unto all the world.”


http://searchingthescriptureswithbob.blogspot.com
Our weekly Bible Letter
http://47yearsinafrica.blogspot.com
Biographical, with photos
http://scripturegems.blogspot.com
Favorite Scripture Quotation
http://salvationtracts.blogspot.com
Representing 70 world languages
http://searchthescriptureswithbob.blogspot.com
Short Bible studies
http://bookletbiblestudies.blogspot.com
Several pages in length
http://phyllistheauthor.blogspot.com
Portions of Phyllis’ 3 published books & more to come




____________


THIS WEEK'S SCRIPTURE

"For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows.”

1 Timothy 6:10

_____________


SEND FREE CHRISTIAN GREETINGS FROM:

ecards@dayspring.com

3-movies@dayspring.com

Silly Sermons...

A minister decided that a visual demonstration would add emphasis to his Sunday sermon.

Four worms were placed into four separate jars:

The first worm was put into a container of alcohol.
The second worm was put into a container of cigarette smoke.
The third worm was put into a container of chocolate syrup.
The fourth worm was put into a container of good clean soil.


At the conclusion of the sermon, the Minister reported the following results:

The first worm in alcohol - Dead.
The second worm in cigarette smoke - Dead
Third worm in chocolate syrup - Dead?
Fourth worm in good clean soil - Alive.

So the Minister asked the congregation -

What can you learn from this demonstration?

Maxine was sitting in the back, quickly raised her hand and said,

"As long as you drink, smoke and eat chocolate, you won't have worms!"

That pretty much ended the service.
____________






PERSONAL FAMILY NOTES

The blue scriptures can also be displayed simply by “hovering” over them with the cursor, also only on the computer.
a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http:

Need a Christmas present? Phyllis’ first missionary novel has been published, You can order a copy now. Go to and search for (Feet of Clay – P J Mills) This is the first volume of a series based in Guatemala, Central America. If this one pays the cost, she has 5 more volumes waiting in line. Her book “The Call to Africa” is also still available from Amazon.com.

We were amazed yesterday when we were told that a Bob Cat has been spotted sunning itself by the stream back of our building here in Plano. Wow! Our assigned car port is just this side of the stream.


Bob and Phyllis

THINK ON THESE THINGS

Newsletter 162
October 18, 2009

======================================================

“The Lord is at hand.”

John ends his book of Revelation with the words, ”Come, Lord Jesus.” and Paul wrote to the Philippians, “The Lord is at hand.“ If they, and those whom they taught, were looking for and urging for Christ to return, how much more ought we to be doing the same? This portion of Paul’s letter, urges us to fill our minds with that which is pleasing to the Lord. Let us make preparation for His return and be eager for His triumphant arrival.

His entry into Jerusalem through the gate called Beautiful was a prophecy in action picturing His return through that same gate yet to come. That portion of the eastern wall of Jerusalem, a wall that has not been rebuilt on a different foundation as many of the others have, still remains today. During their occupation of Jerusalem, that gate was sealed and to keep Jews out, an Islam cemetery now totally blocks the approach to it from the Mount of Olives direction, and from the inside of the wall the public is also kept at bay. But, we read in Revelation that the Lord will enter the city from that direction, and through that gate when he comes. Blocking it off has actually preserved it in anticipation of that time.

Philippians 4:4-9 (King James Version)

4 Rejoice in the Lord always: and again I say, Rejoice. (Philippians 3:1, Psalm 119:151)

5 Let your moderation be known unto all men. The Lord is at hand. (1 Corinthians 16:22, Hebrews 10:37, James 5:8)

6 Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. (Matthew 6:25, Ephesians 6:18, 1 Timothy 2:1, 1 Timothy 5:5, Psalm 1:2)

7 And the peace of God, (Romans 8:28) which passeth all understanding, (Isaiah 26:3, John 16:33) shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. (Isaiah 26:3, John 14:22, Philippians 4:9, Colossians 3:15, 1 Peter 1:5, 2 Corinthians 10:5, Philippians 1:1, Philippians 4:19)

8 Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, (2 Timothy 2:25) whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things. (Romans 14:18, 1 Peter 2:12)

9 Those things, which ye have both learned, and received, and heard, and seen in me, do: and the God of peace shall be with you. (Philippians 3:17, Romans 15:33)

Christians have every reason to live a life filled with praise and rejoicing. New Christians have just begun to make their preparations for the coming of their king. The burden of sin is gone. The King is coming. But make note that he is coming as king, not someone one chosen by popular demand. Left to a ballot, He would not be chosen. By far, the majority of people have chosen the world and its ways. He has been the king all the time; Scripture says, “King of Kings, and Lord of Lords.” We can have no needs that he is not able to grant.

Let us just let our prayers and concerns be directed in praise to Him, with thanksgiving that our deliverer has come. In His wisdom, He will add those things he knows that we need. When Solomon pleased God by asking only for wisdom, God gave far more than that. He has come to bring peace, not only peace to the world, but peace to troubled minds. This is a peace that the world can’t even understand let alone ask for.

__________




READ THE BIBLE THROUGH AGAIN IN 2009

OCTOBER

18th. Sunday – Jeremiah 43, 44, 2 Thessalonians 3, Psalm 119:57-64
19th. Monday – Jeremiah 45, 46, 47, Titus 1, Proverbs 25:11-20
20th. Tuesday – Jeremiah 48, 49:27, Titus 2, Psalm 119:65-72
21st. Wednesday – Jeremiah 49:28-50:46, Titus 3, Psalm 119:73-80
22nd. Thursday – Jeremiah 51:1-58, Philemon, Psalm 119:81-88
23rd. Friday – Jeremiah 51:59-52:34, 1 John 1, Proverbs 25:21-28
24th. Saturday – Ecclesiastes 1, 2, 3, 1 John 2:1-14, Psalm 119:89-98

_________



OUR CHRISTIAN BLOG SEARCHES
(With links to 594 titles)

http://searchingthescriptureswithbob.blogspot.com
Our weekly Bible Letter
http://47yearsinafrica.blogspot.com
Biographical, with photos
http://scripturegems.blogspot.com
Favorite Scripture Quotation
http://salvationtracts.blogspot.com
Representing 70 world languages
http://searchthescriptureswithbob.blogspot.com
Short Bible studies
http://bookletbiblestudies.blogspot.com
Several pages in length
http://phyllistheauthor.blogspot.com
Portions of Phyllis’ 3 published books & more to come




____________


THIS WEEK'S SCRIPTURE

"Let no man deceive you by any means: for that day shall not come, except there be a falling away first, and that man of sin be revealed, the son of perdition; who opposeth and exalteth himself above all that is called God, or that is worshipped;
so that he as God , shewing himself that he is God, sitteth in the temple of God.”

(Note that Christians are the temple of God. Who reigns supreme the hearts of men?)

2 Thessalonians 2:3-4

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NYC Shopping...
A store that sells new husbands has just opened in New York City, where a woman may go to choose a husband. Among the instructions at the entrance is a description of how the store operates: "You may visit this store ONLY ONCE! There are six floors and the value of the products increases as the shopper ascends the flights. The shopper may choose any item from a particular floor, or may choose to go up to the next floor, but you cannot go back down except to exit the building!"

So, a woman goes to the store to find a husband. On the first floor the sign reads: "These men Have Jobs". The second floor sign reads: "These men Have Jobs and Love Kids". The third floor sign reads: "These men Have Jobs, Love Kids, and are Extremely Good Looking."

"Wow," she thinks, but feels compelled to keep going.

At the fourth floor the sign reads: "These men Have Jobs, Love Kids, are Drop-dead Good Looking and Help With Housework."

"Oh, mercy me!" she exclaims, "I can hardly stand it!"

Still, she goes to the fifth floor and the sign reads: "These men Have Jobs, Love Kids, are Drop-dead Gorgeous, Help with Housework, and Have a Strong Romantic Streak." She is so tempted to stay, but she goes to the sixth floor and the sign reads: "You are visitor 31,456,012 to this floor. There are no men on this floor. This floor exists solely as proof that women are impossible to please. Thank you for shopping at the Husband Store."




PERSONAL FAMILY NOTES

Things still much the same with us, a case of “no news is good news.” Phyllis is still using the walker a lot, but it seems to be arthritis and not the fall that is the problem now.

The car has now had its 4th, yes, I said “fourth” transmission overhaul, and I will have to go back for a final check up on it. My wallet is a bit sick, but the car seems to be great now.

Daughter Ruth is returned to South Africa, and grandson Shannon is back in Chicago.

I am still teaching the Bible Class every Thursday here at Evergreen Apartments.

"Google Translator" has been added at the very bottom of the monitor screen for all our English blogs. Readers may, with a single click, select the document in the language of their choice. (More than 50 languages are available.)

Bob and Phyllis

FAITHFUL STEWARDSHIP

Newsletter 161 October 11, 2009

======================================================

All Christians, whether we realized it or not, are given a stewardship. We have been entrusted with certain abilities and made responsible for their use. This is the meaning of the parable of the ruler who entrusted his belongings into the care to his servants and who then went or a long trip expecting them to care for his business. Each had been entrusted with money in proportion to their abilities. When the time of accounting came, he found that the first thre2 had invested wisely, but that the fourth, of whom he had expected the least, had simply hidden the money and gained nothing. His master was greatly displeased.

I remember, as a small boy, I was often sent to feed the chickens and gather the eggs As the sun set, I was also sent to close and secure the hen house, and early in the morning to open the door and let them out again. My brother, who was five years older than I, tended the animals in the barn, and milked the cows. Our responsibilities matched our capabilities. I also worked the garden, while my brother went to the fields.

Our Lord does not have the same tasks for us to do, but He has set a stewardship for each of us, and He does expect a willing and happy response to His trust.

Philippians 2:12-18 (King James Version)

12 So then, my beloved, just as you have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your salvation with fear and trembling; (Philippians 1:5,-6, Philippians 4:15, Hebrews 5:9, 2 Corinthians 7:15)

13 For it is God who is at work in you, both to will and to work for His good pleasure. (Romans 12:3, 1 Corinthians 12:6, 1 Corinthians 15:10, Hebrews13:21, Ephesians 1:5)

14 Do all things without murmurings and disputings: (1 Corinthians 10:10, 1 Peter 4:9)

15 That ye may be blameless and harmless, the sons of God, without rebuke, in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation, among whom ye shine as lights in the world; (Luke 1:5, Philippians 3:6, Mark 5:45, Ephesians 5:1, Deuteronomy 32:5, Acts 2:40, Matthew 5:14-16)

16 Holding forth the word of life; that I may rejoice in the day of Christ, that I have not run in vain, neither labored in vain. (Philippians 1:6, Galatians 2:2, Isaiah 49:4, Galatians 4:11, 1 Timothy 3:5)

17 Yea, and if I be offered upon the sacrifice and service of your faith, I joy, and rejoice with you all. (2 Corinthians 12:15, 2 Timothy 4:6, Numbers 28:6-7, Romans 15:16)

18 For the same cause also do ye joy, and rejoice with me.
__________




READ THE BIBLE THROUGH AGAIN IN 2009

OCTOBER

11th. Sunday – Jeremiah 25, 26, 1 Thessalonians 1, Proverbs 24:23-34
12th. Monday – Jeremiah 27, 28, 29, 1 Thessalonians 2, Psalm 119:17-24
13th. Tuesday – Jeremiah 30, 31, 1 Thessalonians 3, Psalm 119:25-32
14th. Wednesday – Jeremiah 32, 33, 1 Thessalonians 4, Psalm 119:33-40
15th. Thursday – Jeremiah 34, 35, 36, 1 Thessalonians 5, Proverbs 25:1-10
16th. Friday – Jeremiah 37, 38, 39, 2 Thessalonians 1, Psalm 119:41-48
17th. Saturday – Jeremiah 40, 41, 42, 2 Thessalonians 2, Psalm 119:49-56

_________



OUR CHRISTIAN BLOG SEARCHES
(With links to 593 titles)

http://searchingthescriptureswithbob.blogspot.com
Our weekly Bible Letter
http://47yearsinafrica.blogspot.com
Biographical, with photos
http://scripturegems.blogspot.com
Favorite Scripture Quotation
http://salvationtracts.blogspot.com
Representing 70 world languages
http://searchthescriptureswithbob.blogspot.com
Short Bible studies
http://bookletbiblestudies.blogspot.com
Several pages in length
http://phyllistheauthor.blogspot.com
Portions of Phyllis’ 3 published books & more to come




____________


THIS WEEK'S SCRIPTURE

"If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit.”

Galatians 6:25
____________


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Class Action Conclusions...
Down south, Bubba called his attorney and asked, "Is it true theys suin them cigarette companies fer causin people to git cancer ?"

"Yes, Bubba, sure is true," responded the lawyer.

"And now someone is suin them fast food restaurants Fer makin them fat an cloggin their arteries with all them burgers an fries, is that true, Mista Lawyer?"

"Sure is, Bubba."

"And that lady sued McDonalds for millions when she Was gave that hot coffee that she ordered?"

"Yep."

"And that football player sued that university when he gradiated and still couldn't read?"

"That's right," said the lawyer."

"But why are you asking?"

"Well, I was thinkin . . ..

What I want to know is, kin I sue Budweiser fer all them ugly women I'd been hanging out with?"

A WISE MAN WALKS CAREFULLY

Newsletter 160 October 4, 2009

=================================================

Paul is writing for Christians, and this portion of his letter includes several ways in which he speaks of the total difference between God’s ways and the ways of the world. He called it walking wisely.

I remember a visit to a sister in law’s home in Arkansas. Our visit was forcibly extended by a severe ice storm. Her son, made his way down the hill from his home to hers falling a number of times in that short walk. Knowing he was very handy with tools, I suggested that he take two boards the size of his feet and put short nails in them to serve as cleats before he tried that again. The next time he came, he had done that and fastened them to an old pair of shoes with tape. He did not slip at all. That is how God wants us to walk, with care, don’t take chances. Prepare yourself for those perils to your Spiritual life that will certainly come to us all.

Ephesians 5:15-21 (King James Version)

15 See then that ye walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise, (Ephesians 5:2, Colossians 4:5)

16 Redeeming the time, because the days are evil. (Colossians 4:5, Galatians 1:4, Ephesians 6:13)

17 Wherefore be ye not unwise, but understanding what the will of the Lord is. (Romans 12:2, Colossians 1:9, 1 Timothy 4:3)

18 And be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess; but be filled with the Spirit; (Proverbs 20:1, Proverbs 23-31f, Romans 13:13, 1 Corinthians 5:11, 1 Thessalonians 5:7, Titus 1:6, 1 Peter 4:4, Luke 1:15)

19 Speaking to yourselves in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord; (Colossians 3:16, 1 Corinthians 14:26, Acts 16:25, Revelation 5:9, 1 Corinthians 14:15)

20 Giving thanks always for all things unto God and the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ; (Romans 1:8, Ephesians 5:4, Colossians 3:17, 1 Corinthians 15:24)

21 Submitting yourselves one to another in the fear of God. (Galatians 5:13, Philippians 2:3, 1 Peter 5:5, 2 Corinthians 5:11)

Paul covers the works of the flesh in another letter, Galatians, 5:16-26. That letter identifies and contrasts the works of the world, with the works of the Spirit. (The works of the world - Galatians 5:16, Galatians 5:19, Galatians 5:20-21) (The works of the Spirit - Galatians 5:22, Galatians 5:23) I have listed the verses separately because the automatic search will not open several verses at a time if you are reading from a computer monitor. The people at Ephesus would have had access to the circular letter sent to all the churches in Galatia. This one only singles out the excess of wine. That was probably because this was a major feature of the pagan religions of Ephesus. Particular attention was needed.


__________




READ THE BIBLE THROUGH AGAIN IN 2009

OCTOBER

4th. Sunday – Jeremiah 7, 8, Philippians 2:14-30, Psalm 116:12-19
5th. Monday – Jeremiah 9, 10, Philippians 3, Psalm 117
6th. Tuesday – Jeremiah 11, 12, 13, Philippians 4, Psalm 118:1-16
7th. Wednesday – Jeremiah 14, 15, 16, Colossians 1, Proverbs 24:13-22
8th. Thursday – Jeremiah 17, 18, 19, Colossians 2, Psalm 118:17-29
9th. Friday – Jeremiah 20, 21, 22, Colossians 3, Psalm 119:1-8
10th. Saturday – Jeremiah 23, 24, Colossians 4, Psalm 119:9-16

_________




OUR CHRISTIAN BLOG SEARCHES
(With links to 592 titles)

http://searchingthescriptureswithbob.blogspot.com
Our weekly Bible Letter
http://47yearsinafrica.blogspot.com
Biographical, with photos
http://scripturegems.blogspot.com
Favorite Scripture Quotation
http://salvationtracts.blogspot.com
Representing 70 world languages
http://searchthescriptureswithbob.blogspot.com
Short Bible studies
http://bookletbiblestudies.blogspot.com
Several pages in length
http://phyllistheauthor.blogspot.com
Portions of Phyllis’ 3 published books & more to come




____________


THIS WEEK'S SCRIPTURE

"There is one body, and one Spirit, even as ye are called in one hope of your calling; one Lord, one faith, one baptism, one God and Father of all and who is above all and through all, and in you all.”

Ephesians 4:4-6
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Last Daze of Summer...
A couple lived near the ocean and used to walk the beach a lot. One summer they noticed a girl who was at the beach pretty much every day.

She wasn't unusual, nor was the travel bag she carried, except for one thing. She would approach people who were sitting on the beach, glance around, then speak to them.

Generally, the people would respond negatively and she would wander off, but occasionally someone would nod and there would be a quick exchange of money for something she carried in her bag. The couple assumed she was selling drugs and debated calling the cops, but since they didn't know for sure they just continued to watch her.

After a couple of weeks the wife asked, "Honey, have you ever noticed that she only goes up to people with boom boxes and other electronic devices?"

He hadn't and said so. Then she said, "Tomorrow I want you to get a towel and our big radio and go lie out on the beach. Then we can find out what she's really doing."

Well, the plan went off without a hitch, and the wife was almost hopping up and down with anticipation when she saw the girl talk to her husband and then leave. The man walked up the beach and met his wife at the road. "Well, is she selling drugs?" she asked excitedly."

No, she's not." he said, enjoying this probably more than he should have.

"Well, what is it, then?" his wife fairly shrieked.

The man grinned and said. "Her name is Sally and she's a battery salesperson."

"Batteries?" cried the wife.

"Yes," he replied. "Sally sells C cells by the seashore."

(Groan)

ONE SPIRIT - DIFFERENT GIFTS

Newsletter 159 September 27, 2009

=======================================================

WE ARE ALL DISCIPLES

That is, we are all students, learners that we might strengthen our faith. The time is coming, and in fact now is that we are going to be tested. A brother recently passed along the caution that he along with others had been teaching a class in a prison for the past eight years with no problems at all. But on their latest visit a number of men came and politely asked to join the group. However, as soon as they started to pray, this entire group began to take over and to disrupt their study. They were determined to get the class removed and the believers scattered. Satan wants to destroy faith in God. In this case, replace Him with Allah. Faith comes of hearing and obeying the Word of God. Jesus is Lord. We may be much nearer the events of Revelation 13:16, Revelation 14:11 than we ever anticipated. We need to discipline ourselves as never before.

Leaders - (verse 11)

Apostles - For three years, Jesus trained the twelve, we know as apostles. They were to bring into being, his church, and spread the Gospel throughout their lives, recording all that we need to know. They were blessed with the gift to perform miracles, proof of God’s blessing, since they could not, as we do, refer to chapter and verse of the Bible. All of them with the exception of John, died as martyrs for their faith. John, whom Jesus loved, died as an old man. His life had been a life of persecution, but not martyrdom. When the Word was available, this gift as no longer needed. The Word was proof enough.

Prophets - While the written word was being established, God spoke through prophets. In a sense, He still does today. The faithful steward passes on the word from pulpit or tree. I feel blessed to have preached in the same places that Livingstone preached, even under the same tree.

Evangelist - And evangelist, and we are all to be this, spreads the word “as we go.”

Pastors and teachers - This is the work of the elder, a man “able to teach,” and to shepherd the flock of the church, ever watchful of the wayward sheep who is prone to stray.



Ephesians 4:11-16 (King James Version)

11 And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some,

WHY? (verse 2)

To bring to perfection of the saints, and build up the Body, the church.

TO MAKE FIRM (verse 14)

pastors and teachers; (Ephesians 4:, Acts 13:1, 1 Corinthians 12:28, Acts 21:8, Acts 13:1)

12 For the perfecting of the saints, (holy ones) for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ: (2 Corinthians 13:9, 1 Corinthians 12:27, Ephesians 1:23)

13 Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge (true knowledge) of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure (literally, of the fullness) of the stature of the fullness of Christ: (Ephesians 4:3, Ephesians 4:5, John 6:69, Ephesians 1:17, Philippians 3:10, 1 Corinthians 14:20, Colossians 1:28, Hebrews 5:14, John 1:16, Ephesians 1:23)

14 That we henceforth be (no longer be) no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive; (1 Corinthians 14:20, James 1:6, Jude 12, 1 Corinthians 3:19, 2 Corinthians 4:2, 2 Corinthians 11:3, Ephesians 6:11)

15 But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ: (Ephesians 1:4, Ephesians 2:21, Ephesians 1:22)

16 From whom the whole body fitly joined together and compacted by that which every joint supplieth, according to the effectual working in the measure of every part, maketh increase of the body unto the edifying of itself in love. (Romans 12:4, Galatians 2:19, Ephesians 1:4)

HOW? (verse 15)

Speak “the truth in love.”
__________


READ THE BIBLE THROUGH AGAIN IN 2009

SEPTEMBER

27th. Sunday – Micah 1, 2, Ephesians 4:17-32, Psalm 113
28th. Monday – Micah 3,4,5, Ephesians 5:1-16, Psalm 114
29th. Tuesday – Micah 6,7, Ephesians 5:17-33, Proverbs 23:28-35
30th. Wednesday – Nahum 1,2,3, Ephesians 6, Psalm 115:1-9
1st. Thursday – Jeremiah 1,2, Philippians 1: 1-14, Psalm 115:10-18
2nd. Friday – Jeremiah 3,4, Philippians 1:15-30, Psalm 116:1-11
3rd. Saturday – Jeremiah 5,6, Philippians 2:1-13, Proverbs 24:1-12

_________


OUR CHRISTIAN BLOG SEARCHES
(With links to 591 titles)

http://searchingthescriptureswithbob.blogspot.com
Our weekly Bible Letter
http://47yearsinafrica.blogspot.com
Biographical, with photos
http://scripturegems.blogspot.com
Favorite Scripture Quotation
http://salvationtracts.blogspot.com
Representing 70 world languages
http://searchthescriptureswithbob.blogspot.com
Short Bible studies
http://bookletbiblestudies.blogspot.com
Several pages in length
http://phyllistheauthor.blogspot.com
Portions of Phyllis’ 3 published books & more to come




____________


THIS WEEK'S SCRIPTURE

"And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving oneanother , even as God for Christ’s sake hath forgiven you.”

Ephesians 4:32
____________


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Back To School Rules...
And then it wasn't. And just like that it was the first day of school after summer vacation.

The kids had all arrived in the high school sophomore English class, and were chatting away, making new friends. THEN…In walked a very stern looking English teacher and a hush fell over the room as the kids scurried to their seats.

The stern teacher silently panned his gaze across all the kids.

After about a minute or so, he spoke: "From the outset, I want you all to know that there are two words that are absolutely unacceptable in this classroom.

You cannot use them as you recite, or in any of your papers, tests, or homework. Using these words even once, will get you a failing grade for that quarter.

The first one is "gross".

And the other one is "cool".

Are there any questions?"

After a few moments of silence, this gawky teen at the back of the room raises his hand, and the teacher calls upon him.

In a pubescent croaking voice, the kid asks...

"So, what are they?"

LOST FROM THE FAITH

Newsletter 158 September 20, 2009

www://searchingthescriptureswithbob.blogspot.com

(Use Google Search)

=======================================================

All my life, I have found my way by looking at landmarks, streets, trees, buildings, or other fairly stable things. This makes it very difficult for me to tell someone else how to find a certain destination, or even for me to find my way back there after a few years. My ”landmarks” may have been removed or changed. A few months ago, we moved to the apartment where we now live. The complex is composed of four four-storied inter-leading buildings around an enclosed garden. Because each floor and all the passage ways are almost identical, I still occasionally find myself going the opposite direction from my planned destination or using an exit to find the car only to discover that the car is nowhere in sight.



Paul in writing to the churches of Galatia, the letter is meant to be shared, realized that some of them were in danger of wandering from the faith. They had listened to false teachers, and forgotten the truths of the Gospel. They were not keeping in mind the foundation facts that he and others had taught them. Listen to what he says.



Galatians 1:6-10 (King James Version)



6 I marvel that ye are so soon removed from him that called you into the grace of Christ unto another gospel: (2 Corinthians 11:4, Galatians 1:7, Galatians 1:11, Galatians 2:2, Galatians 2:7, Galatians 5:14, 1 Timothy 1:3)



7 Which is not another; but there be some that trouble you, and would pervert the gospel of Christ. (Acts 15:24, Galatians 5:10)



8 But though we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel unto you than that which we have preached unto you, let him be accursed. (2 Corinthians 11:14, Romans 9:3)



9 As we said before, so say I now again, if any man preach any other gospel unto you than that ye have received, let him be accursed. (Acts 18:23, Romans 16:17, Romans 9:3)



10 For do I now persuade men, or God? or do I seek to please men? for if I yet pleased men, I should not be the servant of Christ. (1 Corinthians 10:33, 1 Thessalonians 2:4, Romans 1:1, Philippians 1:1)



After Paul had converted them, fanatical false teachers had come to the churches and had taught them that they could not be Christians unless they had first become Jews, then accepted Christ and that they must reverence and worship angels. These were converts who came directly from Gentile paganism to become Christians. They knew nothing of these strange doctrines and were confused and in danger of wandering from the faith. We learn from these verses.



First, Paul is shocked that they, so soon, had listened to teachers who taught a new and different gospel that is not taught in the Bible. We should not be surprised at this for this is the same method used to establish religious cults yet today. A cult is formed when men establish a church that puts more emphasis on a man’s teaching than on God’s Word. Such groups gather around a man or woman and listen to them instead of studying the word of God. Because he would encounter such teachers, Paul, in another text cautions Timothy, “Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.” (2 Timothy 2:15)



Paul is saying, avoid such teachers, even if you know that they are angels. A third of the angels of heaven followed Satan and became fallen angels. We know them as “demons” and their destination, along with Satan, and those who have been deceived by them, is to be cast into the lake of fire. (Revelation 12:7-8, Revelation 12:9, Revelation 20:10)





__________



READ THE BIBLE THROUGH AGAIN IN 2009



SEPTEMBER



21st. Sunday – Isaiah 51, 52, 53, Galatians 5, Proverbs 23:10-18

22nd. Monday – Isaiah 54, 55, 56, Galatians 6, Psalm 109:16-31

23rd. Tuesday – Isaiah 57, 58, 59, Ephesians 1, Psalm 110

24th. Wednesday – Isaiah 60, 61, 62, Ephesians 2, Psalm 111

25th. Thursday – Isaiah 63, 64, Ephesians 3, Proverbs 23:19-37

26th. Friday – Isaiah 65, 66, Ephesians 4:1-16, Psalm 112
27th. Saturday – Micah 1, 2, Ephesians 4:17-32, Psalm 1 13



_________



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PRAISE THE LORD!


We now have 591 blog pages



representing 70 languages



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THIS WEEK'S SCRIPTURE



"For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ.”



Galatians 2:27

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