LET HIM BE ACCURSED

          SEARCHING THE SCRIPTURES WITH BOB

Newsletter 312                                                                                     September ==================================================================

                                        LET HIM BE ACCURSED

Galatians 1:3-9

3  Grace be to you and peace from God the Father, and from our Lord Jesus Christ.

(Romans 1:7)

4  Who gave himself for our sins, that he might deliver us from this present evil world, according to the will of God and our Father:

(Galatians 2:20, Matthew 13:22, Romans 12:2, 2 Corinthians 4:4, Philippians 4:20)

5  To whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen.

(Romans 11:36)

6  I marvel that ye are so soon removed from him that called you into the grace of Christ unto another gospel.

(Romans 8:28, Galatians 1:15, Galatians 5:8, 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 5:0)

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 I 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)

The meaning of the word “gospel” is simply “good news”, and the source of this good news is found in the New Testament and revealed in the fulfillment of many Old Testament prophecies dating many years before. The book of Matthew was written with the Jewish nation particularly in mind. It begins with the genealogy of Jesus. This would have been vital information for Jewish readers. The birth of Christ, a virgin birth, and many facts, impossible to stage, were foretold from many years and recorded, in their scriptures. Matthew, writing specially for them, recorded these facts; the virgin birth, where the Messiah would be born, that he would be taken to Egypt, that his home would be Nazareth. The facts of his coming death, his burial, and resurrection were also foretold, and none of these could have been planned and executed by him, unless he was, as he said, the Messiah. Christians, the world over, remember these facts every time that they observe the communion memorial service.

Early in church history, there began to rise up men who were preaching “another gospel.”  This began to happen even while the Apostles were still living and preaching. Paul struggled with many of these departures from the gospel and many of his letters to the churches. Since he was the evangelist to the Gentiles, he was deeply concerned by pressure from his Jewish brethren who felt that it was necessary for Gentile converts to become Jews before they could become Christians. This doctrine is called of the Judaizers. He dealt with another doctrine which singled out the gift of tongues and tried to make it a command, because the Spirit understands when we are so overcome that we can only groan and he backs up our prayers for us. Paul’s letters to the churches are a sure and reliable guide for us. Paul so deal with these problems that he is a safe guide for us when we must deal with the same sort of things today. On a personal level, he dealt with every kind of sin imagination can thing of; sexulal, modesty, adictions, alcoholism, theft, murder. If i can happen today, he dealt with it at one or more times, even with the more common sins of, lies, gossip, and meddling in the affairs of others.

Not all false prophets are charlatans, preaching one thing while they do the same. Others teach that “God wants to make you rich.” or “name it, and claim it.” In reality, Jesus said that if he suffered, and he did, we must expect to suffer the same sort of rejection. Jesus pointed ou that it is very difficult for a rich man to go to heaven. He wants us to become a Christian with our eyes open that we may have to suffer. We need to think carefully, we can not seek both riches and Jesus.  Whatever blessings we may accumulate, we are still stewards to God who owns it all. If he gives money to our use, there is a reason. We are handling it for him.

The heart of our worship is expressed in our music and prayers. It all centers on Jesus, but during my Navy years, I often attended churches where that did not seem to be so. Some never mentioned the scriptures at all in the sermon. Some were so emotional that simple reasoning, was laid aside till afterwards, if at all. Then, there were those that seemed to be there to entertain, or to compete with the country club. It always makes me uneasy when an author’s books replace the book of books.

Christ commanded that we teach all nations whatsoever he has taught us. We don’t do that if he and his word are not central, central in our prayers, in our songs, in our observance of the Lords memorial table, and in our giving.

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READ THE BIBLE THROUGH THIS YEAR

9th  Sunday    -    Isaiah 21, 22, 23,    2 Corinthians 9,    Proverbs 22:1-16
10th  Monday    -   Isaiah 24, 25, 26,    2 Corinthians 10,    Psalm 106:32-39
11th  Tuesday    -    Isaiah 27, 28,    2 Corinthians 11:1-15,    Psalm 106:40-48
12th  Wednesday    -    Isaiah 29, 30,    2 Corinthians 11:16-33,    Psalm 107:1-9
13th  Thursday    -    Isaiah 31, 32, 33,    2 Corinthians  12,    Proverbs 22:17-29
14th  Friday    -    Isaiah 34, 35, 36,    2 Corinthians 13,    Psalm 107:10-22
15th  Saturday    -    Isaiah 37, 38,    Galatians 1,    Psalm 107:23-32

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LINKS TO OUR BLOG SITES

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Favorite Scripture quotations
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Send to your readers abroad, 70 languages
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Short Bible studies, one or two pages
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Booklet studies up to fifty pages
http://phyllistheauthor.blogspot.com
A chapter from each of her nine published books

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MEMORY VERSE

“The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom: a good understanding have all they that do his commandments: his praise endures for ever.”  -  Psalm 111:10

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An elderly gentleman, (mid nineties,) very well dressed, hair well groomed, great looking suit, flower in his lapel, smelling slightly of good aftershave, presenting a well looked after image, walked in to the church senior group meeting. Seated at a table is an elderly lady, (mid-eighties.) The gentleman walks over, sits along side her, with his cup of coffee and donut, takes a sip, turns to her and asks, “So tell me, do you come here often?”

THE CHURCH IN LAODICEA, IS IT TODAY'S CHURCH FORETOLD?

Newsletter 325 † December 9, 2012

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Some people never read the book of Revelation, saying that it is too difficult, but there are portions that cannot be more clear. They are missing the blessing of God given through John who wrote:

“Blessed is he that readeth, and they that hear the words of this prophecy, and keep those things which are written therein: for the time is the hand.” Revelation 1:3.

If you make a habit of following a “through the Bible in one year reading guide,” such as the one we include in our weekly mailings, you will read Revelation through every year, and you will be greatly blessed even if there are parts that it is best not to be dogmatic in your interpretion.

I used to have in my library a book written by the founder of a highly respected American Bible College. He felt that the letters to the seven churches of Asia were symbolic of the church universal’s condition in seven periods through the ages from Pentecost to the return of Christ. Whether or not that is the case may or may not be so, but two of the seven churches do stand out, and they are the final two in the series. The church at Philadelphia stands tall being the only one of the seven that has no negative criticism. The last one, Laodicea has grown cold and self satisfied. Even though it has some who are faithful. Let us look at it a little closer. If it represents the church at the time of the Lord’s second coming, studying it should tell us why he comes just then, assuming the order has been chronologically arranged. That may or may not be so. Even if it is not, the Laodicean church has much to teach us.

“And unto the angel of the church of the Laodiceans write; These things saith the Amen, the faithful and true witness the beginning of the creation of God; I know thy works, that thou are neither cold nor hot: I would thou wert cold or hot. So then because thou are lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will spue thee out of my mouth. Because thou sayest, I am rich, and increased with goods, and have need of nothing; and knowest not that thou art wreched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked: I counsel thee to buy of me  gold tried in the fire, that thou mayest be rich: and white raiment, that thou mayest be clothed, and that the shame of thy nakedness do not appear; and anoint thine eyes with eye-salve, that thou mayest see. As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten: be zealous therefore, and repent. Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: If any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me. To him that overcometh will I grant to sit with me in my throne, even as I also overcame, and am set down with my Father in his throne. He that hath an ear to hear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches.” Revelation 3:14-22.

Sadly, this text describes a lukewarm church which thinks herself blessed, rich, and very active, but is blind that so much of this activity is of the world, material, and not of God, spiritual. It is blind to its own nakedness, something like the emperor in the story of “The Emperor’s New Clothes.” In five of the other churches, He calls for the church to repent, but notice that in this case repentance is directed to the individual members (any man). Because He loves, he does not give up on the individuals, but one gets the impression that He has given up on the church as a body and is determined to save from it the genuine, repentant individuals, whom He will bless with the invitation to sit with Him.

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READ THE BIBLE THROUGH AGAIN EACH YEAR

DECEMBER

9th.. Sunday - Ezra 4, 5, Revelation 7, Psalm 140:1-5
10th. Monday - Ezra 6, 7, Revelation 8, Proverbs 30:1-10
11th. Tuesday - Ezra 8, 9, Revelation 9:1-11, Psalm 140:6-13
12th. Wednesday - Ezra 10, Revelation 9:12-21, Psalm 141
13th. Thursday - Nehemiah 1, 2, Revelation 10, Psalm 142
14th. Friday - Nehemiah 3, 4, Revelation 11, Proverbs 30:11-23
15th. Saturday - Nehemiah 5, 6, Revelation 12, Psalm 143

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LINKS TO OUR CHRISTIAN BLOG SITES


http://47yersinafrica.blogspot.com
Biographical, with photos
http://ebooksbybob.blogspot.com
E-books that can be read directly on your computer
http://searchingthescriptureswithbob.blogspot.com
This weekly newsletter in a different format
http://whatdoesgodswordsayaboutthis.blogspot.com
Answers to your questions
http://scripturegems.blogspot.com
Favorite Scripture Quotations
http://salvationtracts.blogspot.com
The represent70 of the world’s languages.
http://searchthescriptureswithbob.blogspot.com
Short Bible studies
http://bookletbiblestudies.blogspot.com
Several pages in length
http://phyllistheauthor.blogspot.com
The opening chapters of her nine books in print

__________

MEMORY VERSE FOR TODAY

“Blessed is he that readeth, and they that hear the words of this prophecy, and keep those things which are written therein: for the time is at hand.” - Revelation 1:3.

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YOU WILL LOVE THIS DAILY SITE

I open my working day with it.

__________


GONE FISHING

A man who can swap horses or catch fish, and not lie about it, is just about pious as men ever get to be in this world.

__________

It is against the law to catch fish in some waters and a miracle in others.

__________

Fishing is not a matter of life or death. It is more important than that.

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SHARE A GOOD BOOK AT CHRISTMAS.

SEARCH:


click books and look for PJ Mills. Most of her Paper backs, and e-books are less than $10. Just remember the series starts with “Feet of Clay” then follow the list on the last page of the book to stay in order as you read. “The Call to Africa,” and “Mary’s Letters“, stand alone.

SHARE A GOOD BOOK WITH SOMEONE FOR CHRISTMAS

SEARCH ON LINE.

A HEAVENLY INHERITANCE

Newsletter 323 December 2, 2012

A HEAVENLY INHERITANCE

Abraham was a wealthy man, but much of his wealth depended upon the wool his flocks produced. As the flock grew larger, it was important that he have access to water and grazing for them. Any spot would soon be grazed bare and thus he would follow good grazing, moving frequently. He, and all who served him, lived in tents. At the best, a tent is a temporary shelter.

The people Moses led out of Egypt, and for many long years thereafter formed quite literally, a huge tent city, subject to all the problems this involved. Sanitation, food, and water, being just a few.

During our first few years in Africa, largely for economic reasons, the missionaries lived in tents for the week of the annual convention, and also the during the Minister’s week. I vividly recall one convention when the first to arrive set up camp in a grove of trees on a hillside. There were several tents, including one large enough for us to use it as a cooking and dining base, and still have a few cots in it. During the afternoon a violent thunder and rain storm brought water ankle deep rushing through most of the tents and collapsing some. The contents of those tents in the deepest flow were carried down the hillside. We were a wet, unhappy group as we gathered for a cold and soggy meal that day! We barely gathered enough bedding to have a good night’s rest. Because of the mud, the dining tent became our gathering place. Half of it was totally spared.   

My whole point is that our arrangements were temporary. Abraham’s tent home was a temporary in nature. The Children of Israel longed for their permanent home, that was promised to them and our group of missionaries longed for something better.

Christians are not meant to be too comfortable in this world. Our permanent home is still in the building stages of preparation. Jesus said, “I go to prepare a place for you.”  But, he also continued, “I will come again.”

 

1 Peter 1:3-12

3  Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, which according to his abundant mercy hath begotten us again unto a lively hope by the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead,

(2 Corinthians  1:3, Galatians 6:16, Titus 3:5, James 1 18, 1 Peter 1:25,  1 Peter 1:13, 1 Peter 1:21, 1 Peter 3:5, 1 Peter 3:15, 1 John 3:3, 1 Corinthians 15:20, 1 Peter 3:21)

THIS WORLD IS NOT OUR PERMANENT HOME

He is leading us even beyond this temporary world and he showed us by his resurrection that, our permanent home for eternity where we shall be for ever with our heavenly Father.  As His His children Christians look forward:

IT SHALL BE PERFECT IN EVERY WAY

If you have ever had a new home built just for you, I am sure  you found when you moved in that there were changes that you wish you had made when it was still in the planning stage. That will not happen in the home Jesus has goer ahead to prepare just for us.  

4  To an inheritance incorruptible, and undefiled, and that fadeth not away, reserved in heaven for you,

(Acts 20:22, Romans 8:17, Colossians 3:24, 1 Peter 5:4, 2 Timothy 4:8)

5  Who are kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation ready to be revealed in the last time.

(1 Corinthians 1:21, 2 Thessalonians 2:13,  1 Peter 4:13, 1 Peter 5:1, John 10:28, Philippians 4:7, Ephesians 2:8)

6  Wherein ye greatly rejoice, though now for a season, if need be, ye are in heaviness through manifold temptations:

(Romans 5:2, 1 Peter 5:10, 1 Peter 3:17, James 1:2, 1 Peter 4:12)

Even gold, precious as it is, does not meet our needs. Years ago, we visited the Gold  Mine display at the Rand Easter Show, in Johannesburg.  The highlight of the demonstration came when they opened a blast furnace and poured a large block of gold. They used to say, “If you can lift it with one hand, you may have it.” They don’t say that anymore, but instead they simply asked for a volunteer to hold it, as soon as it was cool enough. My wife, Phyllis, was quickest to volunteer so she lifted it, using both hands. As someone has pointed out, that was just a paving stone  from the streets of heaven, it was worth many thousands of dollars here on earth.

7  That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with file, might be found unto praise  and honour and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ:

(James 1:3, 1 Corinthians 3:13, Romans 2:7, Luke 17:30, 1 Peter 1:13, 1 Peter 4:13)

CHRISTIANS LOVE THE LORD BECAUSE OF WHAT HE HAS DONE, IS DOING, AND WILL CONTINUE DOING FOR US.

8  Whom having not seen, ye love; in whom, though now you see him not, yet believing, ye rejoice with joy unspeakable and full of glory:

(John 20:29, Ephesians 3:19)

9  Receiving the end of your faith, even the salvation of your souls.

(Romans 6:22)

10  Of which salvation the prophets have enquired and searched diligently, who prophesied of the grace that should come unto you.

(Matthew 13:17, Luke 10:24, Matthew 26:24, 1 Peter 1:13)

11  Searching what, or what manner of time the Spirit of Christ which was in them did signify, when it testified beforehand the sufferings of Christ, and the glory that should follow.

(2 Peter 1:21, Matthew 26:24)

12  Unto whom it was revealed, that not unto themselves, but unto us they did minister the things, which are now reported unto you by them that have preached the gospel unto you with the Holy Ghost sent down from heaven; which things the angels desired to look into.

(1 Peter 1:25, 1 Peter 4:6, Acts 2:2-4, 1 Timothy 3:16)

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READING THE BIBLE THROUGH

2nd.  Sunday  -  Daniel 3, 4,   Revelation 2:1-17,   Proverbs 29:10-18

3rd.   Monday  -  Daniel 5, 6,   Revelation 2:18-29,   Psalm 137

4th.  Tuesday  -  Daniel 7, 8,   Revelation 3:1-10,   Psalm 138

5th.   Wednesday  -  Daniel 9, 10,   Revelation 3:11-22,   Psalm 139:1-8

6th.   Thursday  -  Daniel 11, 12,   Revelation 4,   Proverbs 29:19-27

7th.  Friday  -  Ezra 1:-2:42,   Revelation 5,   Psalm 139:9-16

8th.  Saturday  -  Ezra 2:43-3:13,  Revelation 6,   Psalm 139:17-24

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LINKS TO OUR CHRISTIAN BLOG SITES

http://www.47yearsinafrica.blogspot.com

Biographical, with photos

http://www.ebooksbybob.blogspot.com

These can be read directly on your computer

http://www.searchingthescriptureswithbob.blogspot.com

This weeklynewsletter in a different foremat

http://www.whatdoesgodswordsayabouttjis.blogspot.com

Answers to your questions

http://www.scripturegems.blogspot.com

Favorite Scripture quotations to memorize   

http://www.salvationtracts.blogspot.com

Represents 70 of the world’s languages

http://www.searchthescriptureswithbob.blogspot.com

Short Bible studies

http://www.bookletbiblestudies.blogspot.com

Each several pages long

http://www.phyllistheauthor.blogspot.com

The opening chapters of nine of her books in print

__________

MEMORY VERSE FOR TODAY

“Beloved, follow not that which is evil, but that which is good. He that doeth good is of God: but he that doeth evil hath not seen God.”   3 John 1:11

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FORGOTTEN PLEDGE FROM A JOKE BOOK

“At the age of ten I had accepted Jesus as my Savior, and had promised God at that time that I would go to Bible College and serve Him, but as a teenager I decided to flirt with the devil and ended up getting married and living in sin instead"

(This is not a personal confession)

THE MAN WHO HAD LITTLE REASON FOR THANKSGIVING

SEARCHING THE SCRIPTURES WITH BOB

Newsletter 322                           November 25, 2012

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I recently read this item written by Robert Taylor, in the Waterview Church of Christ newsletter. I had never heard it before in connection with Thanksgiving and realized that you might like it in time for your giving of thanks on the day, so it is posted a little early.

Thanksgiving is more than just a holiday on the calendar. It is a time for giving thanks to God for His abundant care and provision for His own.

Most know the source of Thanksgiving was the Pilgrims at Plymouth Rock giving thanks for God’s help in their survival.

There’s more to the story.

Squanto was an Indian who taught the Pilgrims to plant corn and how to build warm houses. He was instrumental with there being a first Thanksgiving.

Squanto did not have a pleasant, idyllic life. In 1605, He met John Weymouth, an English explorer who took him to England where he learned a little English.

Upon his return to America, he was captured and sold into slavery and transported to Spain.  A Spanish monk bought him, taught him Christianity, and freed him.

Squanto made his way to England where he worked in the stables of John Slaney. Still, Squanto wanted to to go home.

Finally, in 1618, ten years after his kidnapping Squanto returned to the New World a free man. When he arrived home, his tribe, including his entire family, had died of smallpox carried by the colonists. He had to live among another tribe which introduced him to the Pilgrims.

For Squanto, Thanksgiving was not a block on a calendar page, but a road of forgiveness and grace. That first Thanksgiving he had little left of his original life but was able to help others be thankful for the life they had left.

This Thanksgiving you can look back at the terrible distress or look forward to help you can give others. Only one will cause you to be thankful.

Think of more than the Pilgrims on Thursday. Think of Squanto as you bow your head.

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READ YOUR BIBLE THROUGH AGAIN

NOVEMBER

25th.  Sunday - Ezekiel 44, 45,   1 Peter 3,   Psalm 133

26th.  Monday - Ezekiel 46, 47,   1 Peter 4,   Psalm 134

27th.  Tuesday - Ezekiel 48,   1 Peter 5,   Psalm 135:1-12

27th.  Wednesday - Joel 1, 2, 3,   2 Peter 1,   Proverbs 29:1-9

28th.  Thursday - Habakkuk 1, 2, 3,   2 Peter 2,   Psalm 136:13-21

30th.  Friday - Obadiah,   2 Peter 3,   Psalm 138:1-12

DECEMBER

1st.  Saturday - Daniel 1, 2,   Revelation 1,   Psalm 136:13-28

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CHRISTIAN BLOG SEARCHES

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Our weekly newsletter

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     Question & Answers

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Favourite texts to memorise

http://salvationtracts.blogspot.com

Representing 70 languages

http://searchthescriptureswithbob.blogspot.com

Short Bible Studies

http://bookletbiblestudies.blogspot.com

Several pages in length

http://phyllistheauthor.blogspot.com

Opening portions from her 9 published books

http://ebooksbybob.blogspot.com

You can read on your own computer

__________

THIS WEEK’S SCRIPTURE

“”Through faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the word of God, so that things which are seen were not made of things which do appear.”  -  Hebrews 11:3

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SEND FREE CHRISTMAS E-GREETINGS FROM:

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QUOTES

“For a church service schedule, press one, For office hours, press two. For the forgiveness of sins, press three. If you want to pray alone, hang up.”

“Ten percent, of his own money, might be considered to be enough for God, but we at the First National Bank prefer eighteen percent.”

__________

Order a gift e-book, or paperback book from Amazon.com for a Christmas gift. Perhaps “Mary’s Letters” by PJ Mills

                          

WITH MUCH TREMBLING

Newsletter 307 August 5 , 2012

As a young missionary recruit many years ago, I chose for the topic of my thesis, to research and write on the subject of  “The Missionary Methods of the Apostle Paul.” We all know that he had been chosen to carry the gospel to the Gentile world, yet, he often went to the synagogue before going to the city markets where the traders, shoppers, and simply those who sought to hear the latest happenings of their world. Synagogue worship took place on the seventh day only so the market first makes sense, but the Synagogue worship offered a people who had been prepared through the prophets to hear the message of Christ Jesus. Jesus said of himself that his message was that of the Father, It was of the Father that he spoke with Paul and brought about his change giving him the message of truth. Saul, whom we know better as Paul, was a very zealous young man who thought he was serving God. God saw to it that this unlikely zeal would be redirected to His purposes. While the amount of zeal, will vary with the person, that time of change, we call repentance. All Christians were once lost in sin, and all have repented and changed the direction of their lives.

 1 Corinthians 2:1-16 

 As a young man, and follower of the outstanding teacher of his day, Gammaliel, he was probably heading for membership of the committee of seventy, the Sanhedrin. God had other plans. They did not include the Sanhedrin. Instead, they included stoning, a life of sacrifice, rejection, and ultimately death by the sword. He had the capability of gaining great material rewards, but God redirected him to a life of suffering, but even greater rewards in Heaven. That is what God wants for all of us; a redirection to our live pattern and goal.

 PAUL IDENTIFIED WITH HIS LISTENERS

 Paul set the example of a complete change and used his zeal for that which really counts. He was trained to be an eloquent speaker, but he chose to teach on the level of his listeners. The people in the markets were, in the vast majority, not highly trained and educated. Those who were, were such as those Romans who years later, invited him to Mars Hill to teach them about this “new religion.” Then they rejected it.

 My first sermon in Africa certainly was like Paul, in fear and trembling. I had never spoken with an interpreter, then suddenly I had two, both strangers to me up to that moment. I knew that my power was not in the spoken word. I assumed an uneducated audience, but learned later that there were several teachers and a principal there that afternoon. Yet years later one of the teachers talked with me about that sermon. I had quite forgotten the subject and text by that time! God had used both my topic and my words. He can use us all.

 1 And I, brethren, when I came to you, came not with excellency of speech or of wisdom, declaring unto you the testimony of God.
 2 For I determined not to know any thing among you, save Jesus Christ, and him crucified.
3 And I was with you in weakness, and in fear, and in much trembling.

LET YOUR MESSAGE BE A MESSAGE OF LOVE 

4 And my speech and my preaching was not with enticing words of man's wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power:

People become evangelists for many reasons, some of them not so good.. That is very true in a second world culture such as Africa was at that time. For some it is an easy step to take politically. Some use it as a means of gaining financially. The head of the Zion Christian Church of South Africa is such an example. Because they do not train men for ministry or even in the Bible, and permit just about what ever one wants morally and Spiritually, so long as you contribute to the coffers of the head of the church, buy your badge, and so on all is good. Numerically, it is the largest “church.” The head is richer than most Paramount Chiefs even today. But, sometimes the goal is power. Where else an a person who can neither read or write find a position of so much power? The temptation is to create “your own church.”

 5 That your faith should not stand in the wisdom of men, but in the power of God. But, all praise the Lord, there are many who serve because they love the Lord and want others to know Him as well.

Not all evangelists need a Doctorate degree, in truth, what we all need is Love for God and others, and to serve both well. If we are in fear and trembling, let it be because we fear failing to love, and use ourselves to His glory.

 6 Howbeit we speak wisdom among them that are perfect: yet not the wisdom of this world, nor of the princes of this world, that come to nought:

Wisdom and power are more likely to become stumbling blocks than a blessing. To be “hansome,” or “beautiful,” is usually transit. What is necessary is not great knowledge, but rather that we pray for wisdom from the Holy Spirit in what we speak with love for Him.

 7 But we speak the wisdom of God in a mystery, even the hidden wisdom, which God ordained before the world unto our glory:
8 Which none of the princes of this world knew: for had they known it, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory.

AUTHORS IMAGINE AND WRITE MARVELOUS FICTION

9 But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him.

But what God has in store for His own is so great that words can not describe it. Pray, for the wisdom to use His Word wisely to His glory. I try never to go into the pulpit, without first asking for the Holy Spirit to guide me in how I present the truth of the Word with love.

 10 But God hath revealed them unto us by his Spirit: for the Spirit searcheth all things, yea, the deep things of God.
11 For what man knoweth the things of a man, save the spirit of man which is in him? even so the things of God knoweth no man, but the Spirit of God.
12 Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the spirit which is of God; that we might know the things that are freely given to us of God.

PRAY FOR HIS LEADING ALWAYS 

13 Which things also we speak, not in the words which man's wisdom teacheth, but which the Holy Ghost teacheth; comparing spiritual things with spiritual.
14 But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned.
15 But he that is spiritual judgeth all things, yet he himself is judged of no man.
16 For who hath known the mind of the Lord, that he may instruct him? but we have the mind of Christ. 


READ THE BIBLE THROUGH AGAIN IN 2012


 AUGUST 

5th Sunday - 1 Chronicles 7, 8, 1 Corinthians 4, Psalm 91:1-8
6th Monday - 1 Chronicles 9, 10, 1 Corinthians 5, Psalm 91:9-16
7th Tuesday - 1 Chronicles 11, 12, 1 Corinthians 6, Psalm 92
8th Wednesday - 1 Chronicles 13, 14, 15, 1 Corinthians 7:1-19, Proverbs 19:11-20
9th Thursday - 1 Chronicles 16, 17, 1 Corinthians 7:20-40, Psalms 93
10th Friday - 1 Chronicles 18, 19, 20, 1 Corinthians 8, Psalm 94:1-11
11th Saturday - 1 Chronicles 21, 22, 1 Corinthians 9, Psalm 94:12-23
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 THIS WEEK'S MEMORY VERSE 

 “Know ye not that the unrighteous shall not inherit the kingdom of God? Be not deceived neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor effeminate, nor abusers of themselves with mankind, nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners, shall inherit the kingdom of God.” - 1 Corinthians 6:9-10
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 JUST THINK 

 In The Spolane, (Washington) Spokesman newspaper, columnist Paul Turner related the story about a friend ”While visiting my wife's parents in Maryland, we stopped on the Delaware shore at a small doughnut shop called Dough and Cin. Just think, if the place ever went out of business, they could call it Dough and Cin No More.”

 When Eugene Field was a newspaper reporter in Chicago, he wrote in his column” “Half the aldermen in the city are crooks.” The mayor demanded a retraction, so the next day Field wrote: “Half the aldermen in the city are not crooks.”

DON'T LET THE FACT THAT YOU ARE SAVED BY GRACE, LEAD YOU TO SIN

Newsletter 306 July 29,2012
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Romans 14:13-23
King James Version (KJV)
I suppose there is not a single one of us who has not stumbled over the raised blocks placed at the curb end of many parking bays. They are placed there to protect our cars, but on many occasions they have been responsible for serious damage to our elderly population. The purpose of placing them there is good, but many times the end result is not.
In a court setting the conclusion of a trial may be positive or it may be negative, but here it is negative in the sense that we are not to condemn our christian brother, but rather to encourage him. The actual words used may even be the same, but a whole change in meaning can be understood by the tone and expression of them. We are not here to browbeat our weaker brother, but to set an example and encourage him.. For example repeat the three words, “I love you.” . First think of them being expressed to your husband or with, or a frend an kind expression on your face and emphasis on the word “love”. Then repeat the very same works with the emphasis on “You” and an angry expression. Total different meaning and result!
NO ONE LIVES TO HIMSELF ALONE
We are not here to be judges. God has reserved that for Himself, but let us judge ourselves an train our conscience, through the Spirit to set a good example, remembering that as we judge others in a detrimental way, we too shall be judged by our Lord. Let us examine our selves.
13 Let us not therefore judge one another any more: but judge this rather, that no man put a stumblingblock or an occasion to fall in his brother's way.
(Matthew 7:1, Romans 14:3, 1 Corinthians 8:13)
Every generation has its own temptations, but its own sins are pretty much the same. My study Bible has a map of the first century Rome. Pagan temples abounded there, and also the Roman emphasis on their entertainments in the circus, the amphitheater, the stadium. Immorality abounded. To be a Christian, was to be outstandingly different, and everyone knew it. I understand that. I was in the Navy two years, and to be a Christian is to be different. One knew it without having to be told. No one ever asked me to accompany them to Tijuana, across the border, or to a strip club or bar.
14 I know, and am persuaded by the Lord Jesus, that there is nothing unclean of itself: but to him that esteemeth any thing to be unclean, to him it is unclean.

ONE MAN'S SIN, MAY NOT BE SIN TO ANOTHER.
(Acts 10:15, Romans 14:2, Romans 14:20, 1 Corinthians 8:7)
That map of ancient Rome suggests an example. Those pagan temples involved animal sacrifices to their demonic gods, and not all the meat from those was burned. Some was served in drunken orgies, and the rest ended up in the markets. Now, was it a sin to buy and eat that meat? Not really, but if a new convert to Christ thought it was, then it was for him, and likewise for you to openly do so, would be to put a stumbling block in his way.
15 But if thy brother be grieved with thy meat, now walkest thou not charitably. Destroy not him with thy meat, for whom Christ died.
(Ephesians 5:2, Romans 14:20, 1 Corinthians 8:11)
To put it in a more modern setting. I grew up largely in a “dry county” of Illinois. That means that there were no bars and no alcohol served openly. For me, it would have been a sin to go with the others to a place where it was readily available, which eliminated a lot of their entertainment. This was pointed ut to me, when some of our “in law” relative, mother of the groom in this case, discovered that we served non-alcoholic fruit punch at our family weddings.
16 Let not then your good be evil spoken of:
(1 Corinthians 10:30, Titus 2:5, )
THE KINGDOM PRODUCES RIGHTEOUSNESS, PEACE, AND JOY
17 For the kingdom of God is not meat and drink; but righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost.
(1 Corinthians 8:8, Romans 15:13, Galatians 5:22)
These three are the result of the presence of the Spirit. With them comes a better life, the approval of those around us, here and now, and when it comes to an end, the approval of the Lord God.
18 For he that in these things serveth Christ is acceptable to God, and approved of men.
(Romans 16:18, 2 Corinthians 8:21, Philippians 4:8, 1 Peter 2:12)
19 Let us therefore follow after the things which make for peace, and things wherewith one may edify another.
(Psalm 34:14, Romans 12:18, 1 Corinthians 7:15, 1 Timothy 2:22, Hebrews 12:14, Romans 15:2, 1 Corinthians 10:23, 1 Corinthians 14:3, 1 Corinthians 14:26, 2 Corinthians 12:19, Ephesians 4:12, Ephesians 4:29)
20 For meat destroy not the work of God. All things indeed are pure; but it is evil for that man who eateth with offence.
(Romans 14:15, Acts 10:15, Romans 14:2, Roans 14:14, 1 Corinthians 8:9-12)o
IT IS GOOD FOR YOURSELF AND FOR YOUR WEAKER BROTHER
21 It is good neither to eat flesh, nor to drink wine, nor any thing whereby thy brother stumbleth, or is offended, or is made weak.
(1 Corinthians 8:13)
TRAIN YOUR CONSCIENCE TO LISTEN TO THE SPIRIT OF GOD
22 Hast thou faith? have it to thyself before God. Happy is he that condemneth not himself in that thing which he alloweth.
23 And he that doubteth is damned if he eat, because he eateth not of faith: for whatsoever is not of faith is sin.
(1 John 3:21)

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READ THE BIBLE THROUGH AGAIN IN 2012

JULY

29th Sunday - Hosea 13, 14, Romans 15:1-16, Psalm 89:30-37
30th Monday - Jonah 1, 2, Romans 15:17-33, Psalm 89:36-45
31st Tuesday - Jonah 3, 4, Romans 16, Proverbs 18:11:24

AUGUST

1st Wednesday - 1 Chronicles 1, 1 Corinthians 1:1-17, Psalm 89:46-52
2nd Thursday - 1 Chronicles 2, 3, 1 Corinthians 1:18-31, Psalm 90:1-10
3rd Friday - 1 Chronicles 4, 5, 1 Corinthians 2, Psalm 90:11-17
4th Saturday - 1 Chronicles 6, 1 Corinthians 3, Proverbs 19:1-10

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LINKS TO OUR CHRISTIAN BLOG SITES

827 SITES

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http://searchingthescriptureswithbob.bloogspot.com
Our weekly Bible newsletter
http://ebooksbybob.blogspot.com
Read on your computer
http://47yearsinafrica.blogspot.com
Biographical with photos
http://whatdosgodsayaboutthis.blogspot.com
Questions with Bible Answers
http://scripturegems.blogspot.com
Favorite Scripture Portions to memorize
http://salvationtracts.blogspot.com
Representing 70 world languages
http://searchthescriptureswithbob.blogspot.com
One page Bible studies
http://bookletbiblestudies.blogspot.com
Several pages Bible studies, some in translation
http://phyllistheauthor.blogspot.com
First chapters from her 9 books from Amazon, paper or e-book

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THIS WEEK'S MEMORY VERSE

“Let us not therefore judge one another any more: but judge this rather, that no man put a stumblingblock or an occasion to fall in his brother's way.” - Romans 14:13

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AFTER THE STORM

Chippie was a perfectly happy parakeet until his owner decided to clean Chippie's cage with a vacuum cleaner. She started by putting the hose into the cage, and then the phone rang and she left it there until she heard the swoosh of Chippie being sucked up.

She opened the bag and rescued Chippie alive but stunned. He was covered with dust, hair and all kinds of stuff, so she decided to wash him off with running water. Chippie started shivering with cold, so she decided a blast from the hair dryer would dry him quickly.

Did Chippie recover? Friends asked that often! Chippie's owner answers, “He sits on his perch and stares into space … but he isn't cheerful any more.

Would you be?

SAUL’S CONVERSION

Newsletter 301 June 24, 2012
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Acts 9:10-20
King James Version (KJV)

In the last study we noted that Saul did not become a Christian on the road to Damascus. While he was blinded, and waiting in Damascus, God was already working upon him. Paul was praying to God, and certainly the Holy Spirit would have been working on his conscience. It was not that Saul did not know the message the Christians believed and were teaching. He already knew that, but the Spirit would have been bringing him to the conviction that he had been wrong. Jesus, who spoke to him as he traveled, really was the Son of God, and he had been persecuting the Way. He wasn’t serving God, he had been used of Satan. Today we find when, how, and what happened immediately afterwards. God sent a messenger, who would restore his eyesight. Perhaps not perfectly, for he prayed three times, we are told later, that the “thorn in his flesh” be removed. God didn’t remove it entirely. He gave him the strength to bear with it. He used a scribe to do his writing, and once at least added his note at the end as an assurance that it was truly his letter. We all have a “thorn” we would like removed, perhaps several. It is one of the ways that the Lord leads us. In my case, I preach, and teach, but I do not have an orator’s voice. When you are using one or two interpreters, you do not need to rely on a powerful voice, the interpreters will add the volume as they do instant translations.

A DISCIPLE NAMED ANANIAS


10 And there was a certain disciple at Damascus, named Ananias; and to him said the Lord in a vision, Ananias. And he said, Behold, I am here, Lord. We do not know much about this Ananias, One commentary says he was a leader in Damascus. He may have been, but the Scripture only says he was a disciple.

(Genesis 14:15, 2 Corinthians 11:32; Galatians 1:17, Acts 22:12, Acts 10:3, Acts 10:17, Acts 10:19, Acts 11:5, Acts 12:9, Acts 16:9, Acts 18:9)


GO TO THE HOUSE OF JUDAS IN THE STREET CALLED STRAIGHT


11 And the Lord said unto him, Arise, and go into the street which is called Straight, and enquire in the house of Judas for one called Saul, of Tarsus: for, behold, he prayeth.

I believe God does speak to us even today. Phyllis believes he told her when we met that I was the one. Her mother had told her to beware of sailors, but God overrode that warning. I probably would not have responded as I did had not I had a friend at college who was smitten with her sister and who had shown me their joint photo before we ever met. On a much later occasion, I totally believe that God spoke to me as I was praying privately and earnestly. What I was praying about came to be, not immediately, but in God’s timing, as it did with her. On a number of occasions God provided for our needs at times when the cash was really low, and that needed was really great. The Gospel Tract Centre buildings came at such a time as did printing equipment needs in similar fashion.

(Acts 9:30, Acts 11:25, Acts 21:39, Acts 22:3)

12 And hath seen in a vision a man named Ananias coming in, and putting his hand on him, that he might receive his sight.

HEAL HIS BLINDNESS


(Mark 5:23, Acts 6:6, Acts 9:17)

This was such a time for Ananias. Growing faith always seems to start with such a beginning. I remember when the growing need of the Lincoln Bible Institute, now known as the Lincoln Christian University, for buildings and space tested all our faiths. It seemed that a lodge owned orphanage in the city was the need, but God, knowing what lay ahead, did not lead there. Now, we just praise Him that He did not allow that. What problems He directed us away from! and, MY, how He has blessed.

13 Then Ananias answered, Lord, I have heard by many of this man, how much evil he hath done to thy saints at Jerusalem:

Saul’s reputation was known and Ananias was certainly hesitant about looking him up. Probably we all have faced such a test, and failed it. I know I have, and I am ashamed of my fear at the time.

(Acts 8:3, Acts 9:32, Acts 9:41, Acts 26:10, Romans 1:7, Romans 15:25,Romans 16:2, Romans 15:15, 1 Corinthians 1:2)

14 And here he hath authority from the chief priests to bind all that call on thy name.

A RELUCTANT EVANGELIST


(Acts 9:2, Acts 9:21, Acts 7:59)

15 But the Lord said unto him, Go thy way: for he is a chosen vessel unto me, to bear my name before the Gentiles, and kings, and the children of Israel:

(Acts 13:2, Romans 1:1, Romans 9:23, Galatians 1:15, Ephesians 3:7, Acts 22:21, Acts 26:17, Romans 1:5, Romans 11:13, Galatians 1:16, Galatians 2:7, Ephesians 3:1, Ephesians 3:8, 1 Timothy 2:7, 2 Timothy 4:17, Acts 25:22, Acts 26:1, Acts 26:32, 2 Timothy 4:17)

16 For I will shew him how great things he must suffer for my name's sake.

(Acts 20:23, Acts 21:4, Acts 21:11, Acts 21:13, 2 Corinthians 6:4, 2 Corinthians 11:23-27, 1 Thessalonians 3:3)

17 And Ananias went his way, and entered into the house; and putting his hands on him said, Brother Saul, the Lord, even Jesus, that appeared unto thee in the way as thou camest, hath sent me, that thou mightest receive thy sight, and be filled with the Holy Ghost.

Mark 5:23, Acts 6:6, Acts 9:12, Acts 22:13, Acts 2:4)

HE BECAME A CHRISTIAN!


Notice that “be filled with the Holy Ghost.:”

18 And immediately there fell from his eyes as it had been scales: and he received sight forthwith, and arose, and was baptized.

The return of his eyesight, was more than physical, it was also proof that this was the answer to his prayers. Saul was a man of action, and his first reaction was as those at Pentecost had cried out, Acts 2:37, “What shall we do?” Repentance, and faith demand action, and that is what happened, Like those at Pentecost, he was baptized and received the gift of the Holy Ghost. (Acts 2:38) We don’t know how long he stayed in Damascus, but for “certain days” he preached the message which head been trying to destroy before! He was a changed man., and he was preaching at the very places he had letters from the High Priest asking them to aid him to do the very opposite. Oh, that all Christians would be firm in that truth. Jesus is the Christ the Son of God!

19 And when he had received meat, he was strengthened. Then was Saul certain days with the disciples which were at Damascus.

(Acts 26:20, Acts 9:26, Acts 9:38, Acts 11:26)

20 And straightway he preached Christ in the synagogues, that he is the Son of God.

(Acts 13:5, Acts 13:14, Acts 14:1, Acts 16:13, Acts 17:2, Acts 17:10, Acts 18:4, Acts 18:19, Acts 19:8, Matthew 4:3, Acts9:22, Acts 13:33)

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READ THE BIBLE THROUGH AGAIN IN 2012

JUNE

24th. Sunday – 1 Kings 13, Acts 16:19-40, Psalm 78:1-8
25th. Monday – 1 Kings 14, 15, Acts 17, Proverbs 15:19-26
26th. Tuesday - 1 Kings 16, 17, Acts 18, Psalm 78:9-20
27th. Wednesday - 1 Kings 18, Acts 19:1-20, Psalm 78:21-30
28th. Thursday - 1 Kings 19:1-20:21, Acts 19:21-41, Psalm 78:31-39
29th. Friday – 1 Kings 20:22-21:29, Acts 20, Proverbs 15:27-33
30th. Saturday - 1 Kings 22, Acts 21:1-16, Psalm 78:40-55

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Portions of Phyllis’ nine published books

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THIS WEEK'S SCRIPTURE

“And upon the first day of the week, when the disciples came together to break bread, Paul preached unto them, ready to depart on the morrow;” Acts 20:7
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Yoke Joke
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An old man limped into the doctor's office and said, "Doctor, my knee hurts so bad, I can hardly walk!"

The doctor slowly eyed him from head to toe, paused and then said, "Sir, how old are you?"

"I'm 98," the man announced proudly.

The doctor just sighed, and looked at him again. Finally he said, "Sir, I'm sorry. I mean, just look at you. You are almost one hundred years old, and you're complaining that your knee hurts? Well, what did you expect?"

The old man said, "Well, my other knee is 98 years old too, and it doesn't hurt!"

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