Newsletter 215 October17,2010
If found when I started to prepare this lesson, that of all that I have on
ecord, there is not a single study from Paul’s letters to the Thessalonians. I realize that there is a need to do so, perhaps because there has been so much written of late that speculates far beyond what the Bible actually says. It is not just the day and the hour that God in His wisdom, chose not to reveal to us but, but he also does not go into great detail.
He gives us enough that we can be certain that he is returning, enough to reveal that we must live in a state of readiness, enough to encourage believers to look forward to it, but not so much that believers need be fearful.
I read the entire series of the “Left Behind” books that a few years ago swept the world. I had also read one of the author’s serious studies and recognized immediately that they were a fictional story that applied those theories, and went deep into the realm of speculation as so many other books had and still do. Having said that, let’s look at what Paul, the Apostle, actually wrote to the church in Thessalonica. For the time being, let’s put aside, Daniel, Matthew 24, and Revelation. We can read those later, if we wish.
1 Thessalonians 5:1-11 King James Version
1 But of the times and the seasons, brethren, ye have no need that I write unto you. (Acts 1:7, 1 Thessalonians 4:5)
He did not need to write because they already knew these things, God did not reveal the times or the seasons.
2 For yourselves know perfectly that the day of the Lord so cometh as a thief in the night. (1 Corinthians 1:8, Luke 21:34, 1 Thessalonians 5:4, 2 Peter 3:10, Revelation 3:3, Revelation 16:15)
AS A THIEF IN THE NIGHT
3 For when they shall say, Peace and safety; then sudden destruction cometh upon them, as travail upon a woman with child; and they shall not escape. (Jeremiah 6:14, Jeremiah 8:11, Ezekiel 13:10, 2 Thessalonians 1:9)John 16:21)
4 But ye, brethren, are not in darkness, that that day should overtake you as a thief. (Acts 26:18, 1 John 2:8, Luke 21:34, 1 Thessalonians 5:2, 2 Peter 3:10, Revelation 3:3, Revelation 16:15)
THAT WARNING WAS FOR NON-BELIEVERS
They were already aware of the habits of thieves. Thieves may strike at any time, but for some reason the hours between 2:00 and 4:00 seem to be favorites. Any family who has several children is also aware that there is a reason their doctor instructs to have a bag ready for immediate use in those final days of a pregnancy. Those are occasions that you know will come, but you don’t know just when.
CHRISTIANS KNOW HE IS RETURNING, BE READY!
5 Ye are all the children of light, and the children of the day: we are not of the night, nor of darkness. (Luke 16:8, Acts 26:18, 1 John 2:8)
6 Therefore let us not sleep, as do others; but let us watch and be sober.
(Romans 13:11, 1 Thessalonians 5:10, Ephesians 2:3, 1 Thessalonians 4:13, 1 Peter 1:13)
Our church and Bible Book shops in South Africa had iron roller shutters to protect the doors. That of the church was also protected by a steel railed deck so it was the shop and the vehicles that were vulnerable. Repeated attacks on those, caused me to lose much sleep and to start to develop an ulcer. I had to have auto glass replaced repeatedly, and one car was stolen. Shop lifters plagued the shop.
7 For they that sleep, sleep in the night; and they that be drunken are drunken in the night. (Acts 2:15, 2 Peter 2:13)
CHRISTIANS ARE DAY PEOPLE
8 But let us, who are of the day, be sober, putting on the breastplate of faith and love; and for an helmet, the hope of salvation. (1 Thessalonians 5:5, 1 Peter 1:13, Isaiah 59:17, Ephesians 6:14, Ephesians 6:23, Ephesians 6:17, Romans 8:24)
9 For God hath not appointed us to wrath, but to obtain salvation by our Lord Jesus Christ, (1 Thessalonians 1:10, 2 Thessalonians 2:13)
10 Who died for us, that, whether we wake or sleep, we should live together with him. (Romans 14:9)
11 Wherefore comfort yourselves together, and edify one another, even as also ye do. (Ephesians 4:29)
THESE DAYS WILL PASS, AND GOD WILL REWARD.
1 Thessalonians 4:14-18
14 For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so them also which sleep in Jesus will God bring with him. (Romans 4:9, 2 Corinthians 4:14, 1 Corinthians 15:18, 1 Thessalonians 4:13)
15 For this we say unto you by the word of the Lord, that we which are alive and remain unto the coming of the Lord shall not prevent them which are asleep. (1 Kings 3:12, 1 Kings 20:35, 2 Corinthians 12:1, Galatians 1:12, 1 Corinthians 15:52, 1 Thessalonians 5:10, 1 Thessalonians 2:19, 1 Corinthians 15:18, 1 Thessalonians 4:13)
16 For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first: (1 Thessalonians 3:11, 1 Thessalonians 1:10, 2 Thessalonians 1:7, Joel 2:11, Jude 9, Matthew 24:11, 1 Corinthians 15:23, 2 Thessalonians 2:1, Revelation 14:13)
17 Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord. (1 Corinthians 15:52, 1 Thessalonians 5:10, 2 Corinthians 12:2, Daniel 7:13, Acts 1:9, Revelation 11:12John 12:26)
18 Wherefore comfort one another with these words.
_________
RESOLVE TO READ THE BIBLE THROUGH AGAIN IN 2010
OCTOBER
17th. Sunday – Jeremiah 40, 41, 42, 2 Thessalonians 2, Psalm 119:49-56
18th. Monday – Jeremiah 43, 44, 2 Thessalonians 3, Psalm 119:57-64
19th. Tuesday – Jeremiah 45, 46. 47. Titus 1, Proverbs 25:11-20
20th. Wednesday – Jeremiah 48, 49:1-27, Titus 2, Psalm 119:65-72
21st. Thursday -- Jeremiah 49:28-50:1-46, Titus 3, Psalm 119:73-80
22nd. Friday - Jeremiah 51:1-58, Philemon, Psalm 119:81-88
23rd. Saturday – Jeremiah 51:59-64, 52:1-34, 1 John 1, Proverbs 25:21-28 __________
OUR CHRISTIAN BLOG LINKS
(With links to 710 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. Using 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 email addresses all over earth. “Go ye unto all the world.”
Ctrl/click to follow links
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’ 4 published books & more to come
http://priceless.but.free.gift.blogspot.com
God’s gifts cannot be bought for any money.
____________
THIS WEEK'S SCRIPTURE
“that day shall not come, except there come a falling away first, and that man of sin be revealed, the son of perdition; who opposeth and exhalteth himself above all that is called God or that is worshipped; so that he as God sitteth in the temple of God, shewing himself that he is God.”
2 Thessalonians 2:3-4
____________
The Perfect Husband...
Several men are in the locker room of a golf club. A cell phone on a bench rings and a man engages the hands free speaker-function and begins to talk. Everyone else in the room stops to listen.
MAN: "Hello."
WOMAN: "Honey, it's me. Are you at the club?"
MAN: "Yes."
WOMAN: "I am at the mall now and found this beautiful leather coat. It's only $1,000. Is it OK if I buy it?"
MAN: "Sure, go ahead if you like it that much."
WOMAN: "I also stopped by the Mercedes dealership and saw the new 2005 models. I saw one I really liked."
MAN: "How much?"
WOMAN: "$90,000."
MAN: "OK, but for that price, I want it with all the options."
WOMAN: "Great! Oh, and one more thing .....the house I wanted last year is back on the market. They're asking $950,000."
MAN: "Well, then go ahead and give them an offer of $900,000. They will probably take it. If not, we can go the extra 50 thousand. It is really a pretty good price."
WOMAN: "OK. I'll see you later! I love you so much!!"
MAN: "Bye! I love you, too." The man hangs up. The other men in the locker room are staring at him in astonishment, mouths agape.....
Then he smiles and asks: "Anyone know who this phone belongs to?"
Saturday, October 16, 2010
Friday, October 8, 2010
UNITY THROUGH HUMILITY
Newsletter 214 October 10, 2010
When we compare other scriptures, we learn a lot about this church. Paul had planned to travel to North Galatia, but his plans were abandoned when God caused him to dream in which a man from Europe called him to come there instead. Thus it was that he went to Europe for the first time, and found a group of women gathered by the river where they had gone to pray since there was no Synagogue there. The result of this meeting was that Lydia and her entire household of servants and coworkers believed and were baptized. The first church in Europe met in her home. A few days later, they were joined by the jailer and his household. This church came to the aid of Paul over the following years, supporting him financially when he was in need, praying for him, and being an example of what our Lord would that all churches be like.
If we were to move over to the book of Revelation, 3:7 we would find that it was a faithful church and the only one of the seven that God through John, had nothing to condemn. They were faithful, loving people. Our American city of Philadelphia was named after them. It is called the “City of Brotherly Love.” Unfortunately the next, and last, City to be sent a letter, had many problems common to our own age of material wealth. It was condemned because of its lukewarm faith. Revelation 3:16.
Philippians 2:1-11 (King James Version)
1 If there be therefore any consolation in Christ, if any comfort of love, if any fellowship of the Spirit, if any bowels and mercies, (2 Corinthians 13:14, Colossians 3:12)
BE OF THE SAME MIND
2 Fulfill ye my joy, that ye be likeminded, having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind. (John 3:29, Romans 12:16, Philippians 4:2)
3 Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves. (Romans 2:8, Philippians 1:17, Galatians 5:16, Romans 12:10, Ephesians 5:21)
4 Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others. (Romans 15:1-)
LIKE CHRIST JESUS
5 Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus: (Matthew 11:29, Romans 15:3, Philippians 1:1)
6 Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God: (John 1:1, 2 Corinthians 4:4John 5:18, John 10:33, John 14:28)
YET HE BECAME A SERVANT
7 But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men: (2 Corinthians 8:9, Matthew 29:28, John 1:14, Romans 8:3, Galatians 4:4, Hebrews 2:17)
AND GAVE HIS OWN LIFE FOR MANKIND
8 And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross. (2 Corinthians 8:9, Matthew 26:38, John 10:18, Romans 5:18, Hebrews 12:2)
9 Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name: (Hebrews 1:9, Matthew 28:18, Acts 2:33, Hebrews 2:9, Ephesians 1:21)
WHO WILL ALL ACKNOWLEDGE HIM AS LORD
10 That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth; (Isaiah 45:23, Romans 14:11, Ephesians 1:10)
11 And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. (John 13:13, Romans 10:9, Romans 14:9)
DO SO NOW WHILE IT CAN SAVE, AND NOT BECAUSE IT IS FORCED.
_________
RESOLVE TO READ THE BIBLE THROUGH AGAIN IN 2010
OCTOBER
10th. Sunday – Jeremiah 23, 24, Colossians 4, Psalm 119:9-16 11th. Monday – Jeremiah 25, 26, 1 Thessalonians 1, Proverbs 24:23-34
12th. Tuesday – Jeremiah 27, 28, 29, 1 Thessalonians 2, Psalm 119:17-24
13th. Wednesday – Jeremiah 30, 31, 1 Thessalonians 3, Psalm 119:25-32
14th. Thursday -- Jeremiah 32, 33, 1 Thessalonians 4, Psalm 119:33-40
15th. Friday - Jeremiah 34, 35, 36, 1 Thessalonians 5, Proverbs 25:1-10 16th. Saturday – Jeremiah 37, 38, 39, 2 Thessalonians 1, Psalm 119:41-48
__________
OUR CHRISTIAN BLOG LINKS
(With links to 709 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. Using 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 email addresses all over earth. “Go ye unto all the world.”
Ctrl/click to follow links
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’ 4 published books & more to come
http://priceless.but.free.gift.blogspot.com
God’s gifts cannot be bought for any money.
____________
THIS WEEK'S SCRIPTURE
“But let us who are of the day, be sober, putting on the breastplate of faith and love, and for a helmet, the hope of salvation.”
1 Thessalonians 5:8
____________
A sports writer was invited for dinner at the residence of golfing legend Arnold Palmer. He arrived a bit early and Mrs. Palmer met him, invited him in, and said her husband would be down in a moment. The writer asked if, while he was waiting, he could see Palmer's trophy room.
She replied, "Oh, we don't have such a room." That night, the writer asked the golf pro why he didn't have all his trophies on display -- over 90 tour victories, a number of them major tournaments. Palmer looked the columnist right in the eye and replied, "For what? That's yesterday's news!"
Then he explained: "I have enjoyed every victory and cherished the memories. I have celebrated those tournaments. But come Monday morning of the next week, I'm no different from the man who missed the cut last week. In fact, he is probably more hungry for a victory than I.
So if I am to be competitively ready, I must get my thoughts off yesterday and deal with today. There will be a day when I can take the time to look back. But as long as I want to stay competitive, I must never stop and marvel at what I have accomplished, only look forward to my next challenge at hand."
When we compare other scriptures, we learn a lot about this church. Paul had planned to travel to North Galatia, but his plans were abandoned when God caused him to dream in which a man from Europe called him to come there instead. Thus it was that he went to Europe for the first time, and found a group of women gathered by the river where they had gone to pray since there was no Synagogue there. The result of this meeting was that Lydia and her entire household of servants and coworkers believed and were baptized. The first church in Europe met in her home. A few days later, they were joined by the jailer and his household. This church came to the aid of Paul over the following years, supporting him financially when he was in need, praying for him, and being an example of what our Lord would that all churches be like.
If we were to move over to the book of Revelation, 3:7 we would find that it was a faithful church and the only one of the seven that God through John, had nothing to condemn. They were faithful, loving people. Our American city of Philadelphia was named after them. It is called the “City of Brotherly Love.” Unfortunately the next, and last, City to be sent a letter, had many problems common to our own age of material wealth. It was condemned because of its lukewarm faith. Revelation 3:16.
Philippians 2:1-11 (King James Version)
1 If there be therefore any consolation in Christ, if any comfort of love, if any fellowship of the Spirit, if any bowels and mercies, (2 Corinthians 13:14, Colossians 3:12)
BE OF THE SAME MIND
2 Fulfill ye my joy, that ye be likeminded, having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind. (John 3:29, Romans 12:16, Philippians 4:2)
3 Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves. (Romans 2:8, Philippians 1:17, Galatians 5:16, Romans 12:10, Ephesians 5:21)
4 Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others. (Romans 15:1-)
LIKE CHRIST JESUS
5 Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus: (Matthew 11:29, Romans 15:3, Philippians 1:1)
6 Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God: (John 1:1, 2 Corinthians 4:4John 5:18, John 10:33, John 14:28)
YET HE BECAME A SERVANT
7 But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men: (2 Corinthians 8:9, Matthew 29:28, John 1:14, Romans 8:3, Galatians 4:4, Hebrews 2:17)
AND GAVE HIS OWN LIFE FOR MANKIND
8 And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross. (2 Corinthians 8:9, Matthew 26:38, John 10:18, Romans 5:18, Hebrews 12:2)
9 Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name: (Hebrews 1:9, Matthew 28:18, Acts 2:33, Hebrews 2:9, Ephesians 1:21)
WHO WILL ALL ACKNOWLEDGE HIM AS LORD
10 That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth; (Isaiah 45:23, Romans 14:11, Ephesians 1:10)
11 And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. (John 13:13, Romans 10:9, Romans 14:9)
DO SO NOW WHILE IT CAN SAVE, AND NOT BECAUSE IT IS FORCED.
_________
RESOLVE TO READ THE BIBLE THROUGH AGAIN IN 2010
OCTOBER
10th. Sunday – Jeremiah 23, 24, Colossians 4, Psalm 119:9-16 11th. Monday – Jeremiah 25, 26, 1 Thessalonians 1, Proverbs 24:23-34
12th. Tuesday – Jeremiah 27, 28, 29, 1 Thessalonians 2, Psalm 119:17-24
13th. Wednesday – Jeremiah 30, 31, 1 Thessalonians 3, Psalm 119:25-32
14th. Thursday -- Jeremiah 32, 33, 1 Thessalonians 4, Psalm 119:33-40
15th. Friday - Jeremiah 34, 35, 36, 1 Thessalonians 5, Proverbs 25:1-10 16th. Saturday – Jeremiah 37, 38, 39, 2 Thessalonians 1, Psalm 119:41-48
__________
OUR CHRISTIAN BLOG LINKS
(With links to 709 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. Using 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 email addresses all over earth. “Go ye unto all the world.”
Ctrl/click to follow links
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’ 4 published books & more to come
http://priceless.but.free.gift.blogspot.com
God’s gifts cannot be bought for any money.
____________
THIS WEEK'S SCRIPTURE
“But let us who are of the day, be sober, putting on the breastplate of faith and love, and for a helmet, the hope of salvation.”
1 Thessalonians 5:8
____________
A sports writer was invited for dinner at the residence of golfing legend Arnold Palmer. He arrived a bit early and Mrs. Palmer met him, invited him in, and said her husband would be down in a moment. The writer asked if, while he was waiting, he could see Palmer's trophy room.
She replied, "Oh, we don't have such a room." That night, the writer asked the golf pro why he didn't have all his trophies on display -- over 90 tour victories, a number of them major tournaments. Palmer looked the columnist right in the eye and replied, "For what? That's yesterday's news!"
Then he explained: "I have enjoyed every victory and cherished the memories. I have celebrated those tournaments. But come Monday morning of the next week, I'm no different from the man who missed the cut last week. In fact, he is probably more hungry for a victory than I.
So if I am to be competitively ready, I must get my thoughts off yesterday and deal with today. There will be a day when I can take the time to look back. But as long as I want to stay competitive, I must never stop and marvel at what I have accomplished, only look forward to my next challenge at hand."
Monday, October 4, 2010
SONS AND HEIRS
Newsletter 212 September 26,2010
This portion of chapters three and four of Galatians bears one heading. The thought continues across the chapter division. There were, in the original Greek version no paragraphs, chapters or verses. Those were added years later to make searching for a particular portion easier.
Galatians 3:23-4:7 (King James Version)
BEFORE FAITH, THE GALATIANS WERE UNDER THE LAW OF MOSES
23 But before faith came, we were kept under the law, shut up unto the faith which should afterwards be revealed. (Romans 11:32)
24 Wherefore the law was our schoolmaster to bring us unto Christ, that we might be justified by faith. (1 Corinthians 4:15, Galatians 2:16)
25 But after that faith is come, we are no longer under a schoolmaster. (1 Corinthians 4:15)
FAITH IN CHRIST BRINGS FREEDOM FROM THE LAW OF MOSES
26 For ye are all the children of God by faith in Christ Jesus. (Romans 8:14, Galatians 4:5, Romans 8:1, Galatians 8:28, Galatians 8:14, Galatians 5>6, Galatians 5:24, Ephesians 1:1, Philippians 1:1, Colossians 1:4, 1 Timothy 1:12, 2 Timothy 1:1, Titus 1:4)
WE SHOW OUR FAITH THROUGH OUR OBEDIENCE IN BAPTISM
27 For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ. (Matthew 28:19, Romans 6:3, 1 Corinthians 10:2, Romans 13:14)
28 There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus. (Romans 3:22, 1 Corinthians 12:13, Colossians 3:11, John 17:11, Ephesians 2:15, Romans 8:1, Galatians 3:26, Galatians 4:14, Galatians 5:6, Galatians 5:24, Ephesians 1:1, Philippians 1:1, Colossians 1:4, 1 Timothy 1:12, 2 Timothy 1:1, Titus 1:4)
29 And if ye be Christ's, then are ye Abraham's seed, and heirs according to the promise. (Romans 4:13, 1 Corinthians 3:23, Romans 9:8, Galatians 3:18, Galatians 4:28)
Galatians 4
1 Now I say, That the heir, as long as he is a child, differeth nothing from a servant, though he be lord of all;
2 But is under tutors and governors until the time appointed of the father.
3 Even so we, when we were children, were in bondage under the elements of the world: (Galatians 2:4, Galatians 4:8, Galatians 4:24, Colossians 2:8, Colossians 2:20, Hebrews 5:12)
4 But when the fullness of the time was come, God sent forth his Son, made of a woman, made under the law, (Mark 1:15, John 1:14, Romans 1:3, Romans 8:3, Philippians 2:7, Luke 2:21, Luke 2:7)
5 To redeem them that were under the law, that we might receive the adoption of sons. (Romans 8:14, Galatians 3:26)
6 And because ye are sons, God hath sent forth the Spirit of his Son into your hearts, crying, Abba, Father. (Acts 16:7, Romans 5:5, Romans 8:9, Romans 8:16, 2 Corinthians 3:17, Matthew 14:36, Romans 8:15)
7 Wherefore thou art no more a servant, but a son; and if a son, then an heir of God through Christ. (Romans 8:17)
_________
RESOLVE TO READ THE BIBLE THROUGH AGAIN IN 2010
SEPTEMBER
26th. Sunday – Isaiah 65, 66, Ephesians 4:1-16, Psalm 112
27th. Monday – Micah 1, 2, Ephesians 4:17-32, Psalm 113
28th. Tuesday – Micah 3, 4, 5, Ephesians 5:1-16, Psalm 114
29th. Wednesday – Micah 6, 7, Ephesians 5:17-33, Proverbs 23:28-35
30th. Thursday -- Nahum 1, 2, 3, Ephesians 6, Psalm 115:1-9
OCTOBER
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 LINKS
(With links to 708 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. Using 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 email addresses all over earth. “Go ye unto all the world.”
Ctrl/click to follow links
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’ 4 published books & more to come
http://priceless.but.free.gift.blogspot.com
God’s gifts cannot be bought for any money.
____________
THI WEEK'S SSCRIPTURE
“And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ’s sake hath forgiven you.”
Ephesians 4:32
____________
A Mother's Dictionary
NAILS: A hard covering on the end of the finger, which Mom can never have a full set of due to pitching for batting practice, opening stubborn modeling clay lids and removing heat ducts to retrieve army men and/or doll clothing.
PANIC: What a mother goes through when that darn wind-up swing stops.
OCEAN: What the bathroom floor looks like after bath night for kids, assorted pets, two or three full-sized towels and several dozen toy boats, cars and animals.
OPEN: The position of children's mouths when they eat in front of company.
OVERSTUFFED RECLINER: Mom's nickname for Dad.
PENITENTIARY: Where children who don't eat their vegetables or clean their rooms eventually end up, according to Mom.
PETS: Small, furry creatures which follow kids home so Mom will have someone else to clean up after.
PIANO: A large, expensive musical instrument which, after thousands of dollars worth of lessons and constant harping by Mom, kids will refuse to play in front of company.
PURSE: A handbag in which Mom carries the checkbook and keys she can never find because they're buried under tissues, gum wrappers, a plastic container full of cereal, toys from a fast-food restaurant, a teddy bear, a football, wallpaper samples, a grocery list and several outdated coupons.
QUIET: A state of household serenity which occurs before the birth of the first child and occurs again after the last child has left for college.
RAINCOAT: Article of clothing Mom bought to keep a child dry and warm, rendered ineffective because it's in the bottom of a locker stuffed in a book bag or because the child refuses to wear "the geeky thing."
REFRIGERATOR: Combination art gallery and air-conditioner for the kitchen.
ROOM MOTHER: A position of great honor and responsibility bestowed on a Mom who inadvertently misses a PTA meeting.
SCHOOL PLAY: Sadistic ritual in which adults derive pleasure from watching offspring stumble through coarse reenactments of famous historic events.
SCREAMING: Home P.A. system.
SNOWSUITS: Warm, padded outer garments that, when completely zipped and snapped, performs two important functions: Protecting children from the cold and reminding them that they have to go to the bathroom.
SOAP: A cleaning agent Mom puts on the sink on the off-chance one of her kids will accidentally grab it while reaching for the towel.
SPIT: All-purpose cleaning fluid especially good on kids' faces.
SPOILED ROTTEN: What the kids become after as little as 15 minutes with Grandma.
This portion of chapters three and four of Galatians bears one heading. The thought continues across the chapter division. There were, in the original Greek version no paragraphs, chapters or verses. Those were added years later to make searching for a particular portion easier.
Galatians 3:23-4:7 (King James Version)
BEFORE FAITH, THE GALATIANS WERE UNDER THE LAW OF MOSES
23 But before faith came, we were kept under the law, shut up unto the faith which should afterwards be revealed. (Romans 11:32)
24 Wherefore the law was our schoolmaster to bring us unto Christ, that we might be justified by faith. (1 Corinthians 4:15, Galatians 2:16)
25 But after that faith is come, we are no longer under a schoolmaster. (1 Corinthians 4:15)
FAITH IN CHRIST BRINGS FREEDOM FROM THE LAW OF MOSES
26 For ye are all the children of God by faith in Christ Jesus. (Romans 8:14, Galatians 4:5, Romans 8:1, Galatians 8:28, Galatians 8:14, Galatians 5>6, Galatians 5:24, Ephesians 1:1, Philippians 1:1, Colossians 1:4, 1 Timothy 1:12, 2 Timothy 1:1, Titus 1:4)
WE SHOW OUR FAITH THROUGH OUR OBEDIENCE IN BAPTISM
27 For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ. (Matthew 28:19, Romans 6:3, 1 Corinthians 10:2, Romans 13:14)
28 There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus. (Romans 3:22, 1 Corinthians 12:13, Colossians 3:11, John 17:11, Ephesians 2:15, Romans 8:1, Galatians 3:26, Galatians 4:14, Galatians 5:6, Galatians 5:24, Ephesians 1:1, Philippians 1:1, Colossians 1:4, 1 Timothy 1:12, 2 Timothy 1:1, Titus 1:4)
29 And if ye be Christ's, then are ye Abraham's seed, and heirs according to the promise. (Romans 4:13, 1 Corinthians 3:23, Romans 9:8, Galatians 3:18, Galatians 4:28)
Galatians 4
1 Now I say, That the heir, as long as he is a child, differeth nothing from a servant, though he be lord of all;
2 But is under tutors and governors until the time appointed of the father.
3 Even so we, when we were children, were in bondage under the elements of the world: (Galatians 2:4, Galatians 4:8, Galatians 4:24, Colossians 2:8, Colossians 2:20, Hebrews 5:12)
4 But when the fullness of the time was come, God sent forth his Son, made of a woman, made under the law, (Mark 1:15, John 1:14, Romans 1:3, Romans 8:3, Philippians 2:7, Luke 2:21, Luke 2:7)
5 To redeem them that were under the law, that we might receive the adoption of sons. (Romans 8:14, Galatians 3:26)
6 And because ye are sons, God hath sent forth the Spirit of his Son into your hearts, crying, Abba, Father. (Acts 16:7, Romans 5:5, Romans 8:9, Romans 8:16, 2 Corinthians 3:17, Matthew 14:36, Romans 8:15)
7 Wherefore thou art no more a servant, but a son; and if a son, then an heir of God through Christ. (Romans 8:17)
_________
RESOLVE TO READ THE BIBLE THROUGH AGAIN IN 2010
SEPTEMBER
26th. Sunday – Isaiah 65, 66, Ephesians 4:1-16, Psalm 112
27th. Monday – Micah 1, 2, Ephesians 4:17-32, Psalm 113
28th. Tuesday – Micah 3, 4, 5, Ephesians 5:1-16, Psalm 114
29th. Wednesday – Micah 6, 7, Ephesians 5:17-33, Proverbs 23:28-35
30th. Thursday -- Nahum 1, 2, 3, Ephesians 6, Psalm 115:1-9
OCTOBER
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 LINKS
(With links to 708 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. Using 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 email addresses all over earth. “Go ye unto all the world.”
Ctrl/click to follow links
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’ 4 published books & more to come
http://priceless.but.free.gift.blogspot.com
God’s gifts cannot be bought for any money.
____________
THI WEEK'S SSCRIPTURE
“And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ’s sake hath forgiven you.”
Ephesians 4:32
____________
A Mother's Dictionary
NAILS: A hard covering on the end of the finger, which Mom can never have a full set of due to pitching for batting practice, opening stubborn modeling clay lids and removing heat ducts to retrieve army men and/or doll clothing.
PANIC: What a mother goes through when that darn wind-up swing stops.
OCEAN: What the bathroom floor looks like after bath night for kids, assorted pets, two or three full-sized towels and several dozen toy boats, cars and animals.
OPEN: The position of children's mouths when they eat in front of company.
OVERSTUFFED RECLINER: Mom's nickname for Dad.
PENITENTIARY: Where children who don't eat their vegetables or clean their rooms eventually end up, according to Mom.
PETS: Small, furry creatures which follow kids home so Mom will have someone else to clean up after.
PIANO: A large, expensive musical instrument which, after thousands of dollars worth of lessons and constant harping by Mom, kids will refuse to play in front of company.
PURSE: A handbag in which Mom carries the checkbook and keys she can never find because they're buried under tissues, gum wrappers, a plastic container full of cereal, toys from a fast-food restaurant, a teddy bear, a football, wallpaper samples, a grocery list and several outdated coupons.
QUIET: A state of household serenity which occurs before the birth of the first child and occurs again after the last child has left for college.
RAINCOAT: Article of clothing Mom bought to keep a child dry and warm, rendered ineffective because it's in the bottom of a locker stuffed in a book bag or because the child refuses to wear "the geeky thing."
REFRIGERATOR: Combination art gallery and air-conditioner for the kitchen.
ROOM MOTHER: A position of great honor and responsibility bestowed on a Mom who inadvertently misses a PTA meeting.
SCHOOL PLAY: Sadistic ritual in which adults derive pleasure from watching offspring stumble through coarse reenactments of famous historic events.
SCREAMING: Home P.A. system.
SNOWSUITS: Warm, padded outer garments that, when completely zipped and snapped, performs two important functions: Protecting children from the cold and reminding them that they have to go to the bathroom.
SOAP: A cleaning agent Mom puts on the sink on the off-chance one of her kids will accidentally grab it while reaching for the towel.
SPIT: All-purpose cleaning fluid especially good on kids' faces.
SPOILED ROTTEN: What the kids become after as little as 15 minutes with Grandma.
Friday, October 1, 2010
DO NOT GRIEVE THE HOLY SPIRIT
Newsletter 213 October 3, 2010
Did you ever sacrificed to buy a gift for someone, only to learn later that they totally rejected it, perhaps put it away in an inner closet, returned it to the store, or passed it on to someone else? It is not a good feeling at all, is it? Now compare our Lord who gave his only begotten Son for our sakes, a tremendous sacrifice, and who added to that the additional gift of His own Spirit that we have every aid to stay safely in Him during this brief stay we live here on this earth. How it must grieve Him the way we treat his gifts!
I will give unto you the “keys” Matthew 16:19. I thank Him daily for His Son, and for His church, prepared for, and promised throughout the ages. I thank God for the inaugural gifts at that time, the use of that key, Acts 2 :38, when Peter opened the doors of heaven that we might enter in. That second gift was, the remission of sins, that we might have proper garments, and the gift of the Holy Ghost (Spirit), that we might have His guidance. Let us treasure these always, giving of our very best, ourselves, to Him. These are some of the reasons, I wear my best, when I attend His Table on His Day. After all, we would do that if we happened to be invited to meet the president or the queen of England as their dinner guest, wouldn’t we? Of course we would, In honor of their position, we would go buy new clothes if need be. He is the King of kings and we are invited to His table.
Ephesians 4:17-32 (King James Version)
WALK NO MORE AS THE WORLD WALKS
17 This I say therefore, and testify in the Lord, that ye henceforth walk not as other Gentiles walk, in the vanity of their mind,
18 Having the understanding darkened, being alienated from the life of God through the ignorance that is in them, because of the blindness of their heart:
19 Who being past feeling have given themselves over unto lasciviousness, to work all uncleanness with greediness. (1 Timothy 4:2, Romans 1:24, Colossians 3:5)
20 But ye have not so learned Christ. (Matthew 11:29)
TRUTH IS IN JESUS
21 If so be that ye have heard him, and have been taught by him, as the truth is in Jesus: (Romans 10:14, Ephesians 1:13, Ephesians 2:17, Colossians 1:5, Colossians 2:7)
22 That ye put off concerning the former conversation the old man, which is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts; (Ephesians 4:25, Ephesians 4:31, Colossians 3:8, Hebrews 12:1, James 1:21, 1 Peter 2:1, Romans 6:6, 2 Corinthians 11:3, Hebrews 3:13)
23 And be renewed in the spirit of your mind; (Romans 12:2)
YOU ARE NEW MEN
24 And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness. (Romans 13:14, Romans 6:4, Romans 7:6, Romans 12:2, 2 Corinthians 5:17, Colossians 3:10, Ephesians 2:10)
25 Wherefore putting away lying, speak every man truth with his neighbor: for we are members one of another. (Ephesians 4:22, Ephesians 4:31, Colossians 3:8, Hebrews 12:1, James 1:21, 1 Peter 2:1, Ephesians 4:15, Colossians 3:9, Romans 12:5)
26 Be ye angry, and sin not: let not the sun go down upon your wrath: (Psalm 3:4)
27 Neither give place to the devil. (Romans 12:19, James 4:7)
28 Let him that stole steal no more: but rather let him labor, working with his hands the thing which is good, that he may have to give to him that needs. (Acts 20”35, 1 Corinthians 4:12, Galatians 6:10, 1 Thessalonians 4:11,2 Thessalonians 3:8, 2 Thessalonians 1:11, Titus 3:8, Titus 3:14, Luke 3:11, 1 Thessalonians 4:12)
LET OUR LANGUAGE SHOW HIS PRESENCE
29 Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers. (Matthew 12:34, Ephesians 5:4, Colossians 3:8, Ecclesiastes 10:12, Romans 14:19, Colossians 4:6)
30 And grieve not the holy Spirit of God, whereby ye are sealed unto the day of redemption. (Isaiah 63:10, 1 Thessalonians 5:19, John 3:22, Ephesians 1:13)
LET US BEAR WITNESS OF HIM
31 Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamor, and evil speaking, be put away from you, with all malice: (Romans 3:14, Colossians 3:8, Colossians 3:19, Ephesians 4:22, 1 Peter 2:1)
32 And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you. (1 Corinthians 13:4, Colossians 3:12, 1 Peter 3:8, Matthew 6:14, 2 Corinthians 2:10)
__________
I RESOLVE TO READ THE BIBLE THROUGH AGAIN IN 2010
SEPTEMBER
26th. Sunday – Isaiah 65, 66, Ephesians 4:1-16, Psalm 112 27th. Monday – Micah 1, 2, Ephesians 4:17-32, Psalm 113
28th. Tuesday – Micah 3, 4, 5, Ephesians 5:1-16, Psalm 114
29th. Wednesday – Micah 6, 7, Ephesians 5:17-33, Proverbs 23:28-35
30th. Thursday – Nahum 1, 2, 3, Ephesians 6, Psalm 115:1-9
OCTOBER
1st. Friday - Jeremiah 1, 2, Philippians 1:1-14, Psalm 115:10-18
2nd. Saturday – Jeremiah 3, 4 Philippians 1:15-30. Psalm 116:1-11
__________
OUR CHRISTIAN BLOG LINKS
(With links to 708 titles)
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’ 4 published books & more to come
http://priceless.but.free.gift.blogspot.com
God’s gifts cannot be bought for any money.
__________
THIS WEEK'S SCRIPTURE
”And have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather expose them.”
Ephesians 5:11
__________
LAWS WE CAN DO WITHOUT
Law of Dirty Rugs/Carpets: - The chances of an open-faced jelly sandwich of landing face down on a floor covering are directly correlated to the newness, color and cost of the carpet/rug.
Law of Location: - No matter where you go, there you are.
Law of Logical Argument: - Anything is possible if you don't know what you are talking about.
Brown's Law: - If the shoe fits, it's ugly.
Oliver's Law: - A closed mouth gathers no feet.
Wilson's Law: - As soon as you find a product that you really like, they will stop making it.
Did you ever sacrificed to buy a gift for someone, only to learn later that they totally rejected it, perhaps put it away in an inner closet, returned it to the store, or passed it on to someone else? It is not a good feeling at all, is it? Now compare our Lord who gave his only begotten Son for our sakes, a tremendous sacrifice, and who added to that the additional gift of His own Spirit that we have every aid to stay safely in Him during this brief stay we live here on this earth. How it must grieve Him the way we treat his gifts!
I will give unto you the “keys” Matthew 16:19. I thank Him daily for His Son, and for His church, prepared for, and promised throughout the ages. I thank God for the inaugural gifts at that time, the use of that key, Acts 2 :38, when Peter opened the doors of heaven that we might enter in. That second gift was, the remission of sins, that we might have proper garments, and the gift of the Holy Ghost (Spirit), that we might have His guidance. Let us treasure these always, giving of our very best, ourselves, to Him. These are some of the reasons, I wear my best, when I attend His Table on His Day. After all, we would do that if we happened to be invited to meet the president or the queen of England as their dinner guest, wouldn’t we? Of course we would, In honor of their position, we would go buy new clothes if need be. He is the King of kings and we are invited to His table.
Ephesians 4:17-32 (King James Version)
WALK NO MORE AS THE WORLD WALKS
17 This I say therefore, and testify in the Lord, that ye henceforth walk not as other Gentiles walk, in the vanity of their mind,
18 Having the understanding darkened, being alienated from the life of God through the ignorance that is in them, because of the blindness of their heart:
19 Who being past feeling have given themselves over unto lasciviousness, to work all uncleanness with greediness. (1 Timothy 4:2, Romans 1:24, Colossians 3:5)
20 But ye have not so learned Christ. (Matthew 11:29)
TRUTH IS IN JESUS
21 If so be that ye have heard him, and have been taught by him, as the truth is in Jesus: (Romans 10:14, Ephesians 1:13, Ephesians 2:17, Colossians 1:5, Colossians 2:7)
22 That ye put off concerning the former conversation the old man, which is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts; (Ephesians 4:25, Ephesians 4:31, Colossians 3:8, Hebrews 12:1, James 1:21, 1 Peter 2:1, Romans 6:6, 2 Corinthians 11:3, Hebrews 3:13)
23 And be renewed in the spirit of your mind; (Romans 12:2)
YOU ARE NEW MEN
24 And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness. (Romans 13:14, Romans 6:4, Romans 7:6, Romans 12:2, 2 Corinthians 5:17, Colossians 3:10, Ephesians 2:10)
25 Wherefore putting away lying, speak every man truth with his neighbor: for we are members one of another. (Ephesians 4:22, Ephesians 4:31, Colossians 3:8, Hebrews 12:1, James 1:21, 1 Peter 2:1, Ephesians 4:15, Colossians 3:9, Romans 12:5)
26 Be ye angry, and sin not: let not the sun go down upon your wrath: (Psalm 3:4)
27 Neither give place to the devil. (Romans 12:19, James 4:7)
28 Let him that stole steal no more: but rather let him labor, working with his hands the thing which is good, that he may have to give to him that needs. (Acts 20”35, 1 Corinthians 4:12, Galatians 6:10, 1 Thessalonians 4:11,2 Thessalonians 3:8, 2 Thessalonians 1:11, Titus 3:8, Titus 3:14, Luke 3:11, 1 Thessalonians 4:12)
LET OUR LANGUAGE SHOW HIS PRESENCE
29 Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers. (Matthew 12:34, Ephesians 5:4, Colossians 3:8, Ecclesiastes 10:12, Romans 14:19, Colossians 4:6)
30 And grieve not the holy Spirit of God, whereby ye are sealed unto the day of redemption. (Isaiah 63:10, 1 Thessalonians 5:19, John 3:22, Ephesians 1:13)
LET US BEAR WITNESS OF HIM
31 Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamor, and evil speaking, be put away from you, with all malice: (Romans 3:14, Colossians 3:8, Colossians 3:19, Ephesians 4:22, 1 Peter 2:1)
32 And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you. (1 Corinthians 13:4, Colossians 3:12, 1 Peter 3:8, Matthew 6:14, 2 Corinthians 2:10)
__________
I RESOLVE TO READ THE BIBLE THROUGH AGAIN IN 2010
SEPTEMBER
26th. Sunday – Isaiah 65, 66, Ephesians 4:1-16, Psalm 112 27th. Monday – Micah 1, 2, Ephesians 4:17-32, Psalm 113
28th. Tuesday – Micah 3, 4, 5, Ephesians 5:1-16, Psalm 114
29th. Wednesday – Micah 6, 7, Ephesians 5:17-33, Proverbs 23:28-35
30th. Thursday – Nahum 1, 2, 3, Ephesians 6, Psalm 115:1-9
OCTOBER
1st. Friday - Jeremiah 1, 2, Philippians 1:1-14, Psalm 115:10-18
2nd. Saturday – Jeremiah 3, 4 Philippians 1:15-30. Psalm 116:1-11
__________
OUR CHRISTIAN BLOG LINKS
(With links to 708 titles)
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’ 4 published books & more to come
http://priceless.but.free.gift.blogspot.com
God’s gifts cannot be bought for any money.
__________
THIS WEEK'S SCRIPTURE
”And have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather expose them.”
Ephesians 5:11
__________
LAWS WE CAN DO WITHOUT
Law of Dirty Rugs/Carpets: - The chances of an open-faced jelly sandwich of landing face down on a floor covering are directly correlated to the newness, color and cost of the carpet/rug.
Law of Location: - No matter where you go, there you are.
Law of Logical Argument: - Anything is possible if you don't know what you are talking about.
Brown's Law: - If the shoe fits, it's ugly.
Oliver's Law: - A closed mouth gathers no feet.
Wilson's Law: - As soon as you find a product that you really like, they will stop making it.
Friday, September 17, 2010
WHAT'S HOLDING YOU BACK?
Newsletter 211 September 19, 2010
The apostle Paul called it a “thorn in the flesh. Shaka Zulu, the famous warrior king of the Zulu tribes of South Africa, is said to have trained his warriors to run across beds of thorns, some of them three inches long and very painful to tread upon. They had to toughen their feet, and ignore the pain completely. Through, this kind of training, and many similar requirements, the Zulu tribe became feared by all, and their power supreme in the land. They absorbed many smaller tribes, who were given the choice, “Become Zulus or die.” Many of his enemies were impaled on posts leading into his compounds. Over the years since, Zululand is still known for internal faction fights between these splinter groups. Burning thatch roofed huts, with their occupants inside, are not at all an uncommon sight. White travelers have learned to avoid those areas completely, even if travelling across them might save up to a hundred miles on your trip. Experience has also taught us, however, that a converted Zulu, can also become a powerful worker for the Lord Just as Paul was after be believed and was baptized
2 Corinthians 12:7-13 (King James Version)
PAUL’S “THORN IN THE FLESH”
7 And lest I should be exalted above measure through the abundance of the revelations, there was given to me a thorn in the flesh, the messenger of Satan to buffet me, lest I should be exalted above measure. (2 Corinthians 12:1, Numbers 33:55, Ezekiel 28:24, Hosea 2:6, Job 2:6, Matthew 4:10, 1 Corinthians 5:5)
Many believe that Paul’s Thorn was that his eyes never totally recovered from his encounter with the Lord on his way to Damascus to persecute believers there as he had done in Jerusalem. He credited this to Satan, who never permitted him to forget what he had given up for Christ’s sake. In the hands of Satan, he had been bound for power, in the Sanhedrin with all its material side benefits.
8 For this thing I besought the Lord thrice, that it might depart from me. (Matthew 26:44)
GOD’S ANSWER TO HIS PETITIONS FOR HEALING
Think of it. Here was a man who healed others, but was helpless to heal himself. He had prayed for healing three times, but, as often: God did not heal him. He gave him strength to work in spite of it.
God often used persons with infirmities to do His work, because then the glory goes to the message and not the messenger.
9 And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. (1 Corinthians 2:5, Ephesians 3:16, Philippians 4:13, 1 Corinthians 2:3, 2 Corinthians 12:5)
GOD GIVES ALL THE POWER TO DO WHAT HE WANTS US TO DO FOR HIM
10 Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ's sake: for when I am weak, then am I strong. (Romans 5:3, Romans 8:35, 2 Corinthians 6:4, 2 Thessalonians 1:4, 2 Timothy 3:11, 2 Corinthians 5:15, 2 Corinthians 5:20, 2 Corinthians 13:4)
11 I am become a fool in glorying; ye have compelled me: for I ought to have been commended of you: for in nothing am I behind the very chiefest apostles, though I be nothing. (2 Corinthians 5:13, 2 Corinthians 11:16, 2 Corinthians 12:6, 1 Corinthians 5:10, 2 Corinthians 11:5, 1 Corinthians 3:7, 1 Corinthians 13:2, 1 Corinthians 15:9)
12 Truly the signs of an apostle were wrought among you in all patience, in signs, and wonders, and mighty deeds. (John 4:48, Romans 15:191 Corinthians 9:1)
In order not to offend anyone, I will use myself as an example. After I left university and enlisted in the Navy, I had made good marks in the classification tests, was barely six feet tall, and knew how to march so I was placed as a squad leader during boot camp. After that I was placed on my first ship, and put to work as a radio operator. We had voice radio only, but it became apparent that I did not have a good voice for radio, so I ended up, on another ship, as a radar man. No real problems with that..
Years later, as a civilian, I enrolled in what is now, Lincoln Christian University, where again it was found that my voice and personality did not make for a good preacher. It was suggested that I become a writer instead.
As a missionary in Africa, I found that the books that I wrote, and later printed myself, and then in many languages, reached out to all Africa and to many, (hundreds of thousands actually). God changed me, but I still have the same weaknesses. I need an amplifier to teach a class of more than a few persons, still one of our best black ministers once introduced me as the missionary with a loud voice, he “heard me when I was in South West Africa.” That was by means of the printed page, however. All praise to God, He could use even me! He just guided me to the right medium; one that I use to this day. He even gave me a reward to encourage me. On my wall hangs a plaque announcing that I was awarded the Restoration Award for 1970 in the field of Missions as an alumnus of Lincoln Christian Seminary. Now, in retirement, a whole new media has opened to me. I “blog” His truths.
HOW IS HE USING YOU?
Be certain, he can.
13 For what is it wherein ye were inferior to other churches, except it be that I myself was not burdensome to you? forgive me this wrong. (1 Corinthians 9:12, 1 Corinthians 9:18, 2 Corinthians 11:9, 2 Corinthians 12:14, 2 Corinthians 11:7)
__________
I RESOLVE TO READ THE BIBLE THROUGH AGAIN IN 2010
SEPTEMBER
19th. Sunday – Isaiah 45, 46, 47, Galatians 4:1-16, Psalm 108:6-13
20th. Monday – Isaiah 48, 49, 50, Galatians 4:17-31, Psalm 109:1-15
21st. Tuesday – Isaiah 51, 52, 53, Galatians 5, Proverbs 23:10-18
22nd. Wednesday – Isaiah 54, 55, 56, Galatians 6, Psalm 109:16-31
23rd. Thursday – Isaiah 57, 58, 59, Ephesians 1, Psalm 110
24th. Friday - Isaiah 60, 61, 62, Ephesians 2, Psalm 111
25th. Saturday – Isaiah 63, 64, Ephesians 3, Proverbs 23:19-27
__________
OUR CHRISTIAN BLOG LINKS
(With links to 707 titles)
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’ 4 published books & more to come
http://priceless.but.free.gift.blogspot.com
God’s gifts cannot be bought for any money.
__________
THIS WEEK'S SCRIPTURE
”Remind them to be subject to rulers and authorities, to obey, to be ready for every good work, to speak evil of no one, to be peaceable, gentle, showing all humility to all men.”
Titus 3:1
__________
Corporate wisdom
"As of tomorrow, employees will only be able to access the building using individual security cards. Pictures will be taken next Wednesday, and employees will receive their cards in two weeks."
(Microsoft Corp. in Redmond WA )
What I need is an exact list of specific unknown problems we might encounter."
(Lykes Lines Shipping)
"E-mail is not to be used to pass on information or data. It should be used only for company business."
(Accounting manager, Electric Boat Company)
"This project is so important we can't let things that are more important interfere with it."
(Advertising/Marketing manager, United Parcel Service)
"Doing it right is no excuse for not meeting the schedule."
(Plant Manager, Delco Corporation)
"No one will believe you solved this problem in one day! We've been working on it for months. Now go act busy for a few weeks and I'll let you know when it's time to tell them."
(R&D supervisor, Minnesota Mining and Manufacturing/3M Corp.)
Quote from the Boss: "Teamwork is a lot of people doing what I say."
(Marketing executive, Citrix Corporation)
My sister passed away and her funeral was scheduled for Monday. When I told my Boss, he said she died on purpose so that I would have to miss work on the busiest day of the year. He then asked if we could change her burial to Friday. He said, "That would be better for me."
(Shipping executive, FTD Florists)
"We know that communication is a problem, but the company is not going to discuss it with the employees."
(Switching supervisor, AT&T Long Lines Division)
A pick pocket was up in court for a series of petty crimes. The judge said "Mr. Banks you are hereby fined $100." The lawyer stood up and said "Thanks, my lord, however my client only has $75 on him at this time, but if you'd allow him a few minutes in the crowd. . ."
The apostle Paul called it a “thorn in the flesh. Shaka Zulu, the famous warrior king of the Zulu tribes of South Africa, is said to have trained his warriors to run across beds of thorns, some of them three inches long and very painful to tread upon. They had to toughen their feet, and ignore the pain completely. Through, this kind of training, and many similar requirements, the Zulu tribe became feared by all, and their power supreme in the land. They absorbed many smaller tribes, who were given the choice, “Become Zulus or die.” Many of his enemies were impaled on posts leading into his compounds. Over the years since, Zululand is still known for internal faction fights between these splinter groups. Burning thatch roofed huts, with their occupants inside, are not at all an uncommon sight. White travelers have learned to avoid those areas completely, even if travelling across them might save up to a hundred miles on your trip. Experience has also taught us, however, that a converted Zulu, can also become a powerful worker for the Lord Just as Paul was after be believed and was baptized
2 Corinthians 12:7-13 (King James Version)
PAUL’S “THORN IN THE FLESH”
7 And lest I should be exalted above measure through the abundance of the revelations, there was given to me a thorn in the flesh, the messenger of Satan to buffet me, lest I should be exalted above measure. (2 Corinthians 12:1, Numbers 33:55, Ezekiel 28:24, Hosea 2:6, Job 2:6, Matthew 4:10, 1 Corinthians 5:5)
Many believe that Paul’s Thorn was that his eyes never totally recovered from his encounter with the Lord on his way to Damascus to persecute believers there as he had done in Jerusalem. He credited this to Satan, who never permitted him to forget what he had given up for Christ’s sake. In the hands of Satan, he had been bound for power, in the Sanhedrin with all its material side benefits.
8 For this thing I besought the Lord thrice, that it might depart from me. (Matthew 26:44)
GOD’S ANSWER TO HIS PETITIONS FOR HEALING
Think of it. Here was a man who healed others, but was helpless to heal himself. He had prayed for healing three times, but, as often: God did not heal him. He gave him strength to work in spite of it.
God often used persons with infirmities to do His work, because then the glory goes to the message and not the messenger.
9 And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. (1 Corinthians 2:5, Ephesians 3:16, Philippians 4:13, 1 Corinthians 2:3, 2 Corinthians 12:5)
GOD GIVES ALL THE POWER TO DO WHAT HE WANTS US TO DO FOR HIM
10 Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ's sake: for when I am weak, then am I strong. (Romans 5:3, Romans 8:35, 2 Corinthians 6:4, 2 Thessalonians 1:4, 2 Timothy 3:11, 2 Corinthians 5:15, 2 Corinthians 5:20, 2 Corinthians 13:4)
11 I am become a fool in glorying; ye have compelled me: for I ought to have been commended of you: for in nothing am I behind the very chiefest apostles, though I be nothing. (2 Corinthians 5:13, 2 Corinthians 11:16, 2 Corinthians 12:6, 1 Corinthians 5:10, 2 Corinthians 11:5, 1 Corinthians 3:7, 1 Corinthians 13:2, 1 Corinthians 15:9)
12 Truly the signs of an apostle were wrought among you in all patience, in signs, and wonders, and mighty deeds. (John 4:48, Romans 15:191 Corinthians 9:1)
In order not to offend anyone, I will use myself as an example. After I left university and enlisted in the Navy, I had made good marks in the classification tests, was barely six feet tall, and knew how to march so I was placed as a squad leader during boot camp. After that I was placed on my first ship, and put to work as a radio operator. We had voice radio only, but it became apparent that I did not have a good voice for radio, so I ended up, on another ship, as a radar man. No real problems with that..
Years later, as a civilian, I enrolled in what is now, Lincoln Christian University, where again it was found that my voice and personality did not make for a good preacher. It was suggested that I become a writer instead.
As a missionary in Africa, I found that the books that I wrote, and later printed myself, and then in many languages, reached out to all Africa and to many, (hundreds of thousands actually). God changed me, but I still have the same weaknesses. I need an amplifier to teach a class of more than a few persons, still one of our best black ministers once introduced me as the missionary with a loud voice, he “heard me when I was in South West Africa.” That was by means of the printed page, however. All praise to God, He could use even me! He just guided me to the right medium; one that I use to this day. He even gave me a reward to encourage me. On my wall hangs a plaque announcing that I was awarded the Restoration Award for 1970 in the field of Missions as an alumnus of Lincoln Christian Seminary. Now, in retirement, a whole new media has opened to me. I “blog” His truths.
HOW IS HE USING YOU?
Be certain, he can.
13 For what is it wherein ye were inferior to other churches, except it be that I myself was not burdensome to you? forgive me this wrong. (1 Corinthians 9:12, 1 Corinthians 9:18, 2 Corinthians 11:9, 2 Corinthians 12:14, 2 Corinthians 11:7)
__________
I RESOLVE TO READ THE BIBLE THROUGH AGAIN IN 2010
SEPTEMBER
19th. Sunday – Isaiah 45, 46, 47, Galatians 4:1-16, Psalm 108:6-13
20th. Monday – Isaiah 48, 49, 50, Galatians 4:17-31, Psalm 109:1-15
21st. Tuesday – Isaiah 51, 52, 53, Galatians 5, Proverbs 23:10-18
22nd. Wednesday – Isaiah 54, 55, 56, Galatians 6, Psalm 109:16-31
23rd. Thursday – Isaiah 57, 58, 59, Ephesians 1, Psalm 110
24th. Friday - Isaiah 60, 61, 62, Ephesians 2, Psalm 111
25th. Saturday – Isaiah 63, 64, Ephesians 3, Proverbs 23:19-27
__________
OUR CHRISTIAN BLOG LINKS
(With links to 707 titles)
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’ 4 published books & more to come
http://priceless.but.free.gift.blogspot.com
God’s gifts cannot be bought for any money.
__________
THIS WEEK'S SCRIPTURE
”Remind them to be subject to rulers and authorities, to obey, to be ready for every good work, to speak evil of no one, to be peaceable, gentle, showing all humility to all men.”
Titus 3:1
__________
Corporate wisdom
"As of tomorrow, employees will only be able to access the building using individual security cards. Pictures will be taken next Wednesday, and employees will receive their cards in two weeks."
(Microsoft Corp. in Redmond WA )
What I need is an exact list of specific unknown problems we might encounter."
(Lykes Lines Shipping)
"E-mail is not to be used to pass on information or data. It should be used only for company business."
(Accounting manager, Electric Boat Company)
"This project is so important we can't let things that are more important interfere with it."
(Advertising/Marketing manager, United Parcel Service)
"Doing it right is no excuse for not meeting the schedule."
(Plant Manager, Delco Corporation)
"No one will believe you solved this problem in one day! We've been working on it for months. Now go act busy for a few weeks and I'll let you know when it's time to tell them."
(R&D supervisor, Minnesota Mining and Manufacturing/3M Corp.)
Quote from the Boss: "Teamwork is a lot of people doing what I say."
(Marketing executive, Citrix Corporation)
My sister passed away and her funeral was scheduled for Monday. When I told my Boss, he said she died on purpose so that I would have to miss work on the busiest day of the year. He then asked if we could change her burial to Friday. He said, "That would be better for me."
(Shipping executive, FTD Florists)
"We know that communication is a problem, but the company is not going to discuss it with the employees."
(Switching supervisor, AT&T Long Lines Division)
A pick pocket was up in court for a series of petty crimes. The judge said "Mr. Banks you are hereby fined $100." The lawyer stood up and said "Thanks, my lord, however my client only has $75 on him at this time, but if you'd allow him a few minutes in the crowd. . ."
Thursday, September 9, 2010
OUR ETERNAL HOME
Newsletter 210 September 12, 2010
Our youngest daughter should have become an archaeologist in maturity. On any outing we might make, she always returned with all sorts of collections. If we went to the beach, she collected shells. if to a wilderness destination, she up stones. Like Lucille Ball traveling with a huge trailer across the rocky mountains, she would have gathered large stones at every stop, if we had permitted. As a child, I too was fascinated by the junk farmers often dumped in gullies on some hidden corner of their farms.
From such background, come those who search through the debris of as many generations back as they can find. Our daughter probably still has a collection of very old glass bottles, and other trinkets. I am still fascinated with the book, “Dead Men Tell Tales.” and still cherish a genuine American Indian tomahawk I found near my childhood home.
Biblical archaeologists searched for bits of the broken pottery for they were used to write notes on, much as we in our house grab for an envelope from the waste basket to write phone numbers and addresses on. Every home used lots of pottery. They made tiny pottery lamps, large jars to carry water, pots in which to cook, dishes off which to eat. During World War two, we used to joke about the Japanese vessels that were kept under the bed. Today they are treasured antiques, especially if the whole set with a basin and pitcher are there.
Paul compared our bodies to “earthen vessels“. Like the earthen vessels of old, they are temporary, and end up, in our case, in a cemetery. In his day precious documents, titles and deeds, and the Dead Sea Scrolls. Were sealed into large jars and buried, or perhaps hidden in a cave. Even in their land where wars were frequent, and banks non existent, their money and gold and silver items were hidden in the same way.
2 Corinthians 4:7-5:1 (King James Version)
EVEN AT BEST OUR LIFE IS TEMPORARY AND TROUBLED.
7 But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us. (Job 4:19, Job 10:9, Job 33:6, Lamentations 4:2, 2 Corinthians 5:1, 2 Timothy 2:20, Judges 7:2, 1 Corinthians 2:5)
8 We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; (2 Corinthians 1:8, 2 Corinthians 7:5, 2 Corinthians 6:12, Galatians 4:20)
9 Persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed; (John 15:20, Romans 8:35, Psalm 129:2, Hebrews 13:5, Psalms 37:24, Proverbs 24:16, Micah 7:8)
10 Always bearing about in the body the dying of the Lord Jesus, that the life also of Jesus might be made manifest in our body. (Romans 6:5, Romans 8:36, Galatians 6:17, Romans 6:8)
WARS AND PERSECUTIONS CAN NOT DESTROY US.
11 For we which live are always delivered unto death for Jesus' sake, that the life also of Jesus might be made manifest in our mortal flesh.
12 So then death worketh in us, but life in you.
13 We having the same spirit of faith, according as it is written, I believed, and therefore have I spoken; we also believe, and therefore speak; (1 Corinthians 12:9, Psalm 116:10)
CHRISTIANS HAVE BEEN BORN AGAIN OF WATER AND THE SPIRIT.
This new life is Spiritual, and permanent. It will never grow ill, of die. We will all shed this physical body, but never the Spiritual. As God raised up His Son, he will also raise us up with a perfect body. No more walkers, no motorized chairs, no aches, and no pains. Won‘t that be grand?.
14 Knowing that he which raised up the Lord Jesus shall raise up us also by Jesus, and shall present us with you. (Acts 2:34, 1 Thessalonians 4:14, Luke 21:36, Ephesians 5:27, Colossians 1:22, Jude 24)
15 For all things are for your sakes, that the abundant grace might through the thanksgiving of many redound to the glory of God. (Romans 8:28, 2 Corinthians 1:6, 1 Corinthians 9:19, 2 Corinthians 1:11)
16 For which cause we faint not; but though our outward man perish, yet the inward man is renewed day by day. (2 Corinthians 4:1, Romans 7:22, Isaiah 40:29, Colossians 3:10)
OUR WORST, PAUL CALLED, A “LIGHT AFFLICTION”, FOR A “MOMENT.”
17 For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory; (Romans 8:18)
18 While we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen: for the things which are seen are temporal; but the things which are not seen are eternal. (Romans 8:24, 2 Corinthians 5:7, Hebrews 11:1, Hebrews 11:13)
OUR PERMANENT BODY IS NOT ‘MADE WITH HANDS.’
Our Lord has said, “I go to prepare a place for you” We know too, that He is returning for us. The permanent residence he prepares will make those built every week for a popular TV show, look absolutely gaudy and impractical.. He knows us and what we will need for eternity.. It is made just for us. We want to go there and leave all this behind. Let’s get on with his work now. COME LORD JESUS.
2 Corinthians 5:1
1 For we know that if our earthly house of this tabernacle were dissolved, we have a building of God, an house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens. (Job 4:19, 1 Corinthians 15:47, 2 Corinthians 4:7, 2 Peter 1:13, Mark 14:58, Acts 7:48, Hebrews 9:11, Hebrews 9:24)
__________
VIEW THIS!
www.andiesisle.com/creation/magnificent.html
__________
I RESOLVE TO READ THE BIBLE THROUGH AGAIN IN 2010
SEPTEMBER
12th. Sunday – Isaiah 29, 30, 2 Corinthians 11:16-33, Psalm 107:1-9
13th. Monday – Isaiah 31, 32, 33, 2 Corinthians 12, Proverbs 22:17-29
14th. Tuesday – Isaiah 34, 35, 36, 2 Corinthians 13, Psalm 107:10-22
15th. Wednesday – Isaiah 37, 38, Galatians 1, Psalm 107:23-32
16th. Thursday – Isaiah 39, 40, Galatians 2, Psalm 107:33-43
17th. Friday - Isaiah 41, 42, Galatians 3:1-14, Proverbs 23:1-9
18th. Saturday – Isaiah 43, 44, Galatians 3:15-29. Psalm 108:1-5
__________
OUR CHRISTIAN BLOG LINKS
(With links to 706 titles)
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’ 4 published books & more to come
http://priceless.but.free.gift.blogspot.com
God’s gifts cannot be bought for any money.
__________
THIS WEEK'S SCRIPTURE
”The time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears; and they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables.”
2 Timothy 4:3,4
__________
The Young Children and the Sea...
A number of Primary Schools were doing a project on "The Sea." Kids were asked to draw pictures or write about their experiences. Teachers got together to compare the results and put together some of the comments that were funny and some that were sad. Here are some of them. The kids were all aged between 5 and 8 years:
Whales are animals, not fish. If they don't get air they can drown, like my brother did last summer.
(David age 7 - His brother is okay!)
I think sharks are ugly and mean, and have big teeth, just like Emily Richardson. She's not my friend no more.
(Kylie age 6)
My uncle goes out in his boat with pots, and comes back with crabs.
(Millie age 6)
Some fish are dangerous. Jelly fish can sting. Electric eels can give you a shock. They have to live in caves under the sea where I think they have to plug themselves into chargers.
(Christopher age 7)
My mom has fish nets, but doesn't catch any fish.
(Laura age 5)
Our youngest daughter should have become an archaeologist in maturity. On any outing we might make, she always returned with all sorts of collections. If we went to the beach, she collected shells. if to a wilderness destination, she up stones. Like Lucille Ball traveling with a huge trailer across the rocky mountains, she would have gathered large stones at every stop, if we had permitted. As a child, I too was fascinated by the junk farmers often dumped in gullies on some hidden corner of their farms.
From such background, come those who search through the debris of as many generations back as they can find. Our daughter probably still has a collection of very old glass bottles, and other trinkets. I am still fascinated with the book, “Dead Men Tell Tales.” and still cherish a genuine American Indian tomahawk I found near my childhood home.
Biblical archaeologists searched for bits of the broken pottery for they were used to write notes on, much as we in our house grab for an envelope from the waste basket to write phone numbers and addresses on. Every home used lots of pottery. They made tiny pottery lamps, large jars to carry water, pots in which to cook, dishes off which to eat. During World War two, we used to joke about the Japanese vessels that were kept under the bed. Today they are treasured antiques, especially if the whole set with a basin and pitcher are there.
Paul compared our bodies to “earthen vessels“. Like the earthen vessels of old, they are temporary, and end up, in our case, in a cemetery. In his day precious documents, titles and deeds, and the Dead Sea Scrolls. Were sealed into large jars and buried, or perhaps hidden in a cave. Even in their land where wars were frequent, and banks non existent, their money and gold and silver items were hidden in the same way.
2 Corinthians 4:7-5:1 (King James Version)
EVEN AT BEST OUR LIFE IS TEMPORARY AND TROUBLED.
7 But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us. (Job 4:19, Job 10:9, Job 33:6, Lamentations 4:2, 2 Corinthians 5:1, 2 Timothy 2:20, Judges 7:2, 1 Corinthians 2:5)
8 We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; (2 Corinthians 1:8, 2 Corinthians 7:5, 2 Corinthians 6:12, Galatians 4:20)
9 Persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed; (John 15:20, Romans 8:35, Psalm 129:2, Hebrews 13:5, Psalms 37:24, Proverbs 24:16, Micah 7:8)
10 Always bearing about in the body the dying of the Lord Jesus, that the life also of Jesus might be made manifest in our body. (Romans 6:5, Romans 8:36, Galatians 6:17, Romans 6:8)
WARS AND PERSECUTIONS CAN NOT DESTROY US.
11 For we which live are always delivered unto death for Jesus' sake, that the life also of Jesus might be made manifest in our mortal flesh.
12 So then death worketh in us, but life in you.
13 We having the same spirit of faith, according as it is written, I believed, and therefore have I spoken; we also believe, and therefore speak; (1 Corinthians 12:9, Psalm 116:10)
CHRISTIANS HAVE BEEN BORN AGAIN OF WATER AND THE SPIRIT.
This new life is Spiritual, and permanent. It will never grow ill, of die. We will all shed this physical body, but never the Spiritual. As God raised up His Son, he will also raise us up with a perfect body. No more walkers, no motorized chairs, no aches, and no pains. Won‘t that be grand?.
14 Knowing that he which raised up the Lord Jesus shall raise up us also by Jesus, and shall present us with you. (Acts 2:34, 1 Thessalonians 4:14, Luke 21:36, Ephesians 5:27, Colossians 1:22, Jude 24)
15 For all things are for your sakes, that the abundant grace might through the thanksgiving of many redound to the glory of God. (Romans 8:28, 2 Corinthians 1:6, 1 Corinthians 9:19, 2 Corinthians 1:11)
16 For which cause we faint not; but though our outward man perish, yet the inward man is renewed day by day. (2 Corinthians 4:1, Romans 7:22, Isaiah 40:29, Colossians 3:10)
OUR WORST, PAUL CALLED, A “LIGHT AFFLICTION”, FOR A “MOMENT.”
17 For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory; (Romans 8:18)
18 While we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen: for the things which are seen are temporal; but the things which are not seen are eternal. (Romans 8:24, 2 Corinthians 5:7, Hebrews 11:1, Hebrews 11:13)
OUR PERMANENT BODY IS NOT ‘MADE WITH HANDS.’
Our Lord has said, “I go to prepare a place for you” We know too, that He is returning for us. The permanent residence he prepares will make those built every week for a popular TV show, look absolutely gaudy and impractical.. He knows us and what we will need for eternity.. It is made just for us. We want to go there and leave all this behind. Let’s get on with his work now. COME LORD JESUS.
2 Corinthians 5:1
1 For we know that if our earthly house of this tabernacle were dissolved, we have a building of God, an house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens. (Job 4:19, 1 Corinthians 15:47, 2 Corinthians 4:7, 2 Peter 1:13, Mark 14:58, Acts 7:48, Hebrews 9:11, Hebrews 9:24)
__________
VIEW THIS!
www.andiesisle.com/creation/magnificent.html
__________
I RESOLVE TO READ THE BIBLE THROUGH AGAIN IN 2010
SEPTEMBER
12th. Sunday – Isaiah 29, 30, 2 Corinthians 11:16-33, Psalm 107:1-9
13th. Monday – Isaiah 31, 32, 33, 2 Corinthians 12, Proverbs 22:17-29
14th. Tuesday – Isaiah 34, 35, 36, 2 Corinthians 13, Psalm 107:10-22
15th. Wednesday – Isaiah 37, 38, Galatians 1, Psalm 107:23-32
16th. Thursday – Isaiah 39, 40, Galatians 2, Psalm 107:33-43
17th. Friday - Isaiah 41, 42, Galatians 3:1-14, Proverbs 23:1-9
18th. Saturday – Isaiah 43, 44, Galatians 3:15-29. Psalm 108:1-5
__________
OUR CHRISTIAN BLOG LINKS
(With links to 706 titles)
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’ 4 published books & more to come
http://priceless.but.free.gift.blogspot.com
God’s gifts cannot be bought for any money.
__________
THIS WEEK'S SCRIPTURE
”The time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears; and they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables.”
2 Timothy 4:3,4
__________
The Young Children and the Sea...
A number of Primary Schools were doing a project on "The Sea." Kids were asked to draw pictures or write about their experiences. Teachers got together to compare the results and put together some of the comments that were funny and some that were sad. Here are some of them. The kids were all aged between 5 and 8 years:
Whales are animals, not fish. If they don't get air they can drown, like my brother did last summer.
(David age 7 - His brother is okay!)
I think sharks are ugly and mean, and have big teeth, just like Emily Richardson. She's not my friend no more.
(Kylie age 6)
My uncle goes out in his boat with pots, and comes back with crabs.
(Millie age 6)
Some fish are dangerous. Jelly fish can sting. Electric eels can give you a shock. They have to live in caves under the sea where I think they have to plug themselves into chargers.
(Christopher age 7)
My mom has fish nets, but doesn't catch any fish.
(Laura age 5)
Saturday, September 4, 2010
BEWARE< WHITE WATERS AHEAD!
Newsletter 209 September 5, 2010
While our text for today says, “perilous times shall come,” it would seem to the writer that such times are already upon us. Verses 2 and 3 list characteristics which are more at home in the daily news than in the Bible. Babies and toddlers sexually molested, or beaten to death, children kidnapped, teenagers running totally out of control, rape and murder as daily headlines, filthy language. Everything mentioned there is upon us now! Yet, even so, there is still a “form of godliness,” yet in many cases, it has nothing to do with almighty God. (Revelation 3:14-22) The description of the church at Laodicea also fits our era. Material wealth with many adherents, does not necessarily mean Spiritual wealth. It is interesting to note that in the earlier letters to the churches in this series of letters, the Lord calls upon the church to repent, but to this one His call is to the individuals in the church, we might be shocked at how few there may be that have adhered to the “narrow gate” and the “straight,” way as in narrow way. Don’t be ashamed to be labeled “old fashioned, out of touch, and narrow.” If it is in reference to Spiritual matters, that is the call back to the Bible, that much bought, but also much neglected book when it comes to being read and followed.
2 Timothy 3: 1-17 King James Version
PERILOUS TIMES
1 This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come. (1 Timothy 4:1)
2 For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, (Philippians 2:21, Luke 16:14, 1 Timothy 3:3, 1 Timothy 6:10, Romans 1:30, 2 Peter 2:10-12, Luke 6:351 Timothy 1:9)
3 Without natural affection, trucebreakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good, (1 Timothy 3:11, Titus 1:8)
Traitors, heady, high4 minded, lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God; (Acts 7:52, Acts 19:36, 1 Timothy 3:6, Philippians 3:19)
A FORM OF GODLINESS
When I think of “a form of godliness” I remember a tent meeting of the Zion Christian Church, in Soweto, Johannesburg, that I was unexpectedly, and probably unwisely, given the opportunity to address. At that time, we had, on our return flight after furlough in America, overnighter at Athens, and stood on Mars Hill, where many years before, the Apostle Paul had been given a similar opportunity. I used his opening words, (Acts 17:22-23) He was gazing upon the Parthenon, as had we. It was a magnificent pagan temple in itself, but Paul was also thinking of the man shrines that led to it, one of them to an unknown god.
The worship of the ZCC people, also has scattered religious inclusions from all religions, but claims to be “Christian. There were blood, candles, bells, drums, simultaneous prayers in many languages, all while facing Jerusalem, and Islam style, face an inch or so from the floor. They did the same thing in reverence for their crowned and scarlet robed leader and his wife. In their favor, they do immerse their converts and their wallets, three times in running water.
Their leaders are usually totally untrained. What is our reason when we do similar things?
5 Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away. (1 Timothy 4:7, 1 Timothy 5:8, Matthew 7:15, 2 Thessalonians 3:6)
Even today, it is not unheard that leaders have the same problems, Paul was refering to.
6 For of this sort are they which creep into houses, and lead captive silly women laden with sins, led away with divers lusts, (Jude 4, 1 Timothy 5:6, Titus 3:3)
A BIBLE STUDY, BUT NO REFERENCE TO GOD’S WORD
7 Ever learning, and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth. (2 Timothy 2:25)
Too often we are really listening to an author, but not to God. No wonder, we are easily diverted from truth. Test your source!
8 Now as Jannes and Jambres withstood Moses, so do these also resist the truth: men of corrupt minds, reprobate concerning the faith. (Exodus 7:11, Acts 13:8, 1 Timothy 6:5)
9 But they shall proceed no further: for their folly shall be manifest unto all men, as their's also was. (Luke 6:11, Exodus 7:11-12, Exodus 8:18, Exodus 9:11)
10 But thou hast fully known my doctrine, manner of life, purpose, faith, longsuffering, charity, patience, (Philippians 2:20, Philippians 2:22, 1 Timothy 4:6, 1 Timothy 6:11)
11 Persecutions, afflictions, which came unto me at Antioch, at Iconium, at Lystra; what persecutions I endured: but out of them all the Lord delivered me. (2 Corinthians 1:7, 2 Corinthians 12:10, 2 Corinthians 1:5, Acts 13:14, Acts 13:45-50, Acts 14:1-7, Acts 13:19, Acts 14:8-20, 2 Corinthians 11:23-27, Romans 15:31)
12 Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution. (John 15:20. Acts 14:22, 2 Corinthians 4:9)
PREPARE FOR THE WORST
13 But evil men and seducers shall wax worse and worse, deceiving, and being
deceived. (2 Timothy 2:16, Titus 3:3)
14 But continue thou in the things which thou hast learned and hast been assured of, knowing of whom thou hast learned them; (2 Timothy 1:13, Titus 1:9)
15 And that from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus. (2 Timothy 1:5, John 5:47, Romans 2:27, Psalm 119:98, 1 Corinthians 1:21, 2 Timothy 1:1)
16 All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: (Romans 4:23, Romans 15:4, 2 Peter 1:20)
17 That the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works. (1 Timothy 6:11, 2 Timothy 2:21, Hebrews 13:21)
__________
VIEW THIS!
://www http.swapmeetdave.com/United/Where.htm
__________
I RESOLVE TO READ THE BIBLE THROUGH AGAIN IN 2010
SEPTEMBER
5th. Sunday – Isaiah 10, 11, 2 Corinthians 5, Proverbs 21:24-31 6th. Monday – Isaiah 12, 13, 14, 2 Corinthians 6, Psalm 105:37-45
7th. Tuesday – Isaiah 15, 16, 17, 2 Corinthians 7, Psalm 106: 1-15
8th. Wednesday – Isaiah 18, 19, 20, 2 Corinthians 8, Psalm 106:16-31
9th. Thursday – Isaiah 21, 22, 23, 2 Corinthians 9, Proverbs 22:1-16
10th. Friday - Isaiah 24, 25, 26, 2 Corinthians 10, Psalm 106:32-39
11th. Saturday – Isaiah 27, 28, 2 Corinthians 11:1-16, Psalm 106:40-48
__________
OUR CHRISTIAN BLOG LINKS
(With links to 705 titles)
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’ 4 published books & more to come
http://priceless.but.free.gift.blogspot.com
God’s gifts cannot be bought for any money.
__________
THIS WEEK'S SCRIPTURE
”The things which thou hast heard of me among many witnesses; the same commit thou to faithful men who shall be able to teach others also.”
2 Timothy 2:15
__________
Pet A Penguin...
A man was driving down the road with twenty penguins in the back seat.
The police stop him and say that he can't drive around with the penguins in the car and should take them to the zoo.
The man agrees and drives off.
The next day the same man is driving down the road with twenty penguins in the back and again.
He is stopped by the same police officer who says, "Hey! I though I told you to take those to the zoo."
The man replies, "I did. Today I'm taking them to the movies."
While our text for today says, “perilous times shall come,” it would seem to the writer that such times are already upon us. Verses 2 and 3 list characteristics which are more at home in the daily news than in the Bible. Babies and toddlers sexually molested, or beaten to death, children kidnapped, teenagers running totally out of control, rape and murder as daily headlines, filthy language. Everything mentioned there is upon us now! Yet, even so, there is still a “form of godliness,” yet in many cases, it has nothing to do with almighty God. (Revelation 3:14-22) The description of the church at Laodicea also fits our era. Material wealth with many adherents, does not necessarily mean Spiritual wealth. It is interesting to note that in the earlier letters to the churches in this series of letters, the Lord calls upon the church to repent, but to this one His call is to the individuals in the church, we might be shocked at how few there may be that have adhered to the “narrow gate” and the “straight,” way as in narrow way. Don’t be ashamed to be labeled “old fashioned, out of touch, and narrow.” If it is in reference to Spiritual matters, that is the call back to the Bible, that much bought, but also much neglected book when it comes to being read and followed.
2 Timothy 3: 1-17 King James Version
PERILOUS TIMES
1 This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come. (1 Timothy 4:1)
2 For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, (Philippians 2:21, Luke 16:14, 1 Timothy 3:3, 1 Timothy 6:10, Romans 1:30, 2 Peter 2:10-12, Luke 6:351 Timothy 1:9)
3 Without natural affection, trucebreakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good, (1 Timothy 3:11, Titus 1:8)
Traitors, heady, high4 minded, lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God; (Acts 7:52, Acts 19:36, 1 Timothy 3:6, Philippians 3:19)
A FORM OF GODLINESS
When I think of “a form of godliness” I remember a tent meeting of the Zion Christian Church, in Soweto, Johannesburg, that I was unexpectedly, and probably unwisely, given the opportunity to address. At that time, we had, on our return flight after furlough in America, overnighter at Athens, and stood on Mars Hill, where many years before, the Apostle Paul had been given a similar opportunity. I used his opening words, (Acts 17:22-23) He was gazing upon the Parthenon, as had we. It was a magnificent pagan temple in itself, but Paul was also thinking of the man shrines that led to it, one of them to an unknown god.
The worship of the ZCC people, also has scattered religious inclusions from all religions, but claims to be “Christian. There were blood, candles, bells, drums, simultaneous prayers in many languages, all while facing Jerusalem, and Islam style, face an inch or so from the floor. They did the same thing in reverence for their crowned and scarlet robed leader and his wife. In their favor, they do immerse their converts and their wallets, three times in running water.
Their leaders are usually totally untrained. What is our reason when we do similar things?
5 Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away. (1 Timothy 4:7, 1 Timothy 5:8, Matthew 7:15, 2 Thessalonians 3:6)
Even today, it is not unheard that leaders have the same problems, Paul was refering to.
6 For of this sort are they which creep into houses, and lead captive silly women laden with sins, led away with divers lusts, (Jude 4, 1 Timothy 5:6, Titus 3:3)
A BIBLE STUDY, BUT NO REFERENCE TO GOD’S WORD
7 Ever learning, and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth. (2 Timothy 2:25)
Too often we are really listening to an author, but not to God. No wonder, we are easily diverted from truth. Test your source!
8 Now as Jannes and Jambres withstood Moses, so do these also resist the truth: men of corrupt minds, reprobate concerning the faith. (Exodus 7:11, Acts 13:8, 1 Timothy 6:5)
9 But they shall proceed no further: for their folly shall be manifest unto all men, as their's also was. (Luke 6:11, Exodus 7:11-12, Exodus 8:18, Exodus 9:11)
10 But thou hast fully known my doctrine, manner of life, purpose, faith, longsuffering, charity, patience, (Philippians 2:20, Philippians 2:22, 1 Timothy 4:6, 1 Timothy 6:11)
11 Persecutions, afflictions, which came unto me at Antioch, at Iconium, at Lystra; what persecutions I endured: but out of them all the Lord delivered me. (2 Corinthians 1:7, 2 Corinthians 12:10, 2 Corinthians 1:5, Acts 13:14, Acts 13:45-50, Acts 14:1-7, Acts 13:19, Acts 14:8-20, 2 Corinthians 11:23-27, Romans 15:31)
12 Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution. (John 15:20. Acts 14:22, 2 Corinthians 4:9)
PREPARE FOR THE WORST
13 But evil men and seducers shall wax worse and worse, deceiving, and being
deceived. (2 Timothy 2:16, Titus 3:3)
14 But continue thou in the things which thou hast learned and hast been assured of, knowing of whom thou hast learned them; (2 Timothy 1:13, Titus 1:9)
15 And that from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus. (2 Timothy 1:5, John 5:47, Romans 2:27, Psalm 119:98, 1 Corinthians 1:21, 2 Timothy 1:1)
16 All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: (Romans 4:23, Romans 15:4, 2 Peter 1:20)
17 That the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works. (1 Timothy 6:11, 2 Timothy 2:21, Hebrews 13:21)
__________
VIEW THIS!
://www http.swapmeetdave.com/United/Where.htm
__________
I RESOLVE TO READ THE BIBLE THROUGH AGAIN IN 2010
SEPTEMBER
5th. Sunday – Isaiah 10, 11, 2 Corinthians 5, Proverbs 21:24-31 6th. Monday – Isaiah 12, 13, 14, 2 Corinthians 6, Psalm 105:37-45
7th. Tuesday – Isaiah 15, 16, 17, 2 Corinthians 7, Psalm 106: 1-15
8th. Wednesday – Isaiah 18, 19, 20, 2 Corinthians 8, Psalm 106:16-31
9th. Thursday – Isaiah 21, 22, 23, 2 Corinthians 9, Proverbs 22:1-16
10th. Friday - Isaiah 24, 25, 26, 2 Corinthians 10, Psalm 106:32-39
11th. Saturday – Isaiah 27, 28, 2 Corinthians 11:1-16, Psalm 106:40-48
__________
OUR CHRISTIAN BLOG LINKS
(With links to 705 titles)
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’ 4 published books & more to come
http://priceless.but.free.gift.blogspot.com
God’s gifts cannot be bought for any money.
__________
THIS WEEK'S SCRIPTURE
”The things which thou hast heard of me among many witnesses; the same commit thou to faithful men who shall be able to teach others also.”
2 Timothy 2:15
__________
Pet A Penguin...
A man was driving down the road with twenty penguins in the back seat.
The police stop him and say that he can't drive around with the penguins in the car and should take them to the zoo.
The man agrees and drives off.
The next day the same man is driving down the road with twenty penguins in the back and again.
He is stopped by the same police officer who says, "Hey! I though I told you to take those to the zoo."
The man replies, "I did. Today I'm taking them to the movies."
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