REPENT YE THEREFORE AND BE CONVERTED

Newsletter 239 April 17, 2011

First impressions are lasting impressions. The unusual dress of the “Herero” women of Namibia can’t help but be noticed. Using hand cranked Singer sewing machines, they made their own dresses and turbans, basically in the style that the earliest missionaries wore. Their skirts swept the ground in several layers. The waists were fitted, and the “mutton” sleeves covered the entire arm. These ladies considered themselves to be Christians, because they dressed as their missionaries had dressed.

These women fled if they spotted a camera, lest you steal their souls, they drank to excess their home brewed mixtures, and we found the first night, they stole what was not fastened down under lock and key. The meaning of “repentance” seemed not to be in their lives.

Later among church members in South Africa, we found they had no problem with “baptism,” but they ignored “repent” in the same sentence. “Repent, and be baptized, every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins” (Acts 2:38, Acts 3:19). Christianity is more than dress, or even singing loudly and attending every worship service.

Luke 13:22-30 (King James Version)

22 And he went through the cities and villages, teaching, and journeying toward Jerusalem. (Luke 9:51)

23 Then said one unto him, Lord, are there few that be saved? And he said unto them,

NOT ALL WHO KNOCK SHALL ENTER

The apostles enquired, “Are there few that be saved ?” They had witnessed the feeding of thousands of eager people, they had seen people being healed their illnesses, but now the excitement seemed to be waning, and the excitement less. The bottom line was motivation. What motivates great crowds ? Many are attracted. They “knock” at the door, but they don’t open their hearts, and make that commitment that means a total new way of life; a new birth of water and Spirit. A new beginning as a result of totally repenting of the old ways. Strive to enter in. The way is narrow. It takes a good eye and a concentrated mind to thread a needle, and it takes a controlled life to enter into the narrow gate ahead.

24 Strive to enter in at the strait gate: for many, I say unto you, will seek to enter in, and shall not be able. (Mark 7:13)

GOD WILL CLOSE THE DOOR OF OPPORTUNITY

The time is coming when the door of opportunity will close. Only Noah and his immediate family. Still living with him, entered the ark, then God closed the door. There would have been millions of people all about them. The ark is a “picture” of the church. There will be millions who have not repented of their sins, who will be outside when He comes again.

25 When once the master of the house is risen up, and hath shut to the door, and ye begin to stand without, and to knock at the door, saying, Lord, Lord, open unto us; and he shall answer and say unto you, I know you not whence ye are: (Matthew 25:10, Matthew 7:22, Matthew 25:11, Matthew 7:23, Matthew 25:12, Luke 13:27)

EVEN ANY APPARENT FOLLOWERS WILL BE REJECTED

The sad fact is that there will be millions who have lived under the delusion that they are serving God. Several things can be wrong. They may have never made the right start at all. They may not have repented of the old way of life. They may have never been obedient to the Lord in the new birth, baptism. Their motivation may have been wrong. Even their witnessing may be at fault. Jesus said “enter in by the straight” gate, meaning narrow. There will be, and are “false prophets.”

(Luke 3:8)

26 Then shall ye begin to say, We have eaten and drunk in thy presence, and thou hast taught in our streets.

WE ARE NOT SAVED BY WORKS

But, one of the greatest reasons is that many think they are saved by their works, whereas works are a product of Christianity. One does works because he is a Christian, not to make him one.

27 But he shall say, I tell you, I know you not whence ye are; depart from me, all ye workers of iniquity. (Luke 13:25, Psalm 6:8, Matthew 25:41)

AWARE OF BEING REJECTED

There shall be many who will be rejected.

28 There shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth, when ye shall see Abraham, and Isaac, and Jacob, and all the prophets, in the kingdom of God, and you yourselves thrust out. (Matthew 8:12, Matthew 22:13, Matthew 25:10)

29 And they shall come from the east, and from the west, and from the north, and from the south, and shall sit down in the kingdom of God.

EVERY NATION INCLUDED.

All are invited. All want to be accepted, and we can know that we will be by being in the Lord Jesus. Where we start out is meaningless, but where we consciously chose to stay makes all the difference. Repentance means a change from living in the manner of the world to living in the manner of Christ. The rewards are eternal and can not be measured by this world's measurements.

(Matthew 8:11)

30 And, behold, there are last which shall be first, and there are first which shall be last. (Matthew 19:30, Matthew 20:16, Mark 10:31)

__________

READ THE BIBLE THROUGH AGAIN IN 2011
APRIL

17th. Sunday – Joshua 2, 3, Luke 18:18-43, Psalm 47:1-9
18th. Monday – Joshua 4, 5, Luke 19:1-27, Proverbs 10:1-10
19th. Tuesday – Joshua 6, 7, Luke 19:28-48, Psalm 48
20th. Wednesday - Joshua 8, 9, Luke 20:1-26, Psalm 49:1-10
21st. Thursday - Joshua 10, Luke 20:27-47, Psalm 49:11-20
22nd. Friday – Joshua 11, 12, Luke 21:1-19, Proverbs 10:11-20
23rd. Saturday - Joshua 13, 14, Luke 21:20-38, Psalm 50:1-15

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THIS WEEK'S SCRIPTURE

“It is easier for a camel to go through a needle’s eye, than for a rich man to enter into the kingdom of God.” – Luke 18:25

__________

SPREAD THE GOOD NEWS ! – Forward this along to all your friends. The saved will rejoice and the unsaved need its message the most, so everyone is blessed: YOU FOR SHARING, AND ALL FOR READING.

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SIGNS THAT YOU'VE GROWN UP:

-6:00 a.m. is when you get up, not when you go to bed.
-You watch the Weather Channel.
-Jeans and a sweater no longer qualify as 'dressed up.'
-You don't know what time Taco Bell closes anymore.
-Your car insurance goes down and your payments go up.
-You feed your dog Science Diet instead of McDonald's leftovers.
-Dinner and a movie is the whole date instead of the beginning of one.

WHO IS MY NEIGHBOR?

Newsletter 238 April 10, 2011

Luke 10:25-37 (King James Version)

THE LAWYER’S QUESTION

trap for Jesus that he could turn against him. Typical of many lawyers even today, this man was very familiar with the letter of the law, but not overly zealous of the intent. His purpose was to set a trap.

25 And, behold, a certain lawyer stood up, and tempted him, saying, Master, what shall I do to inherit eternal life? (Matthew 22:35, Luke 11:45-46, Luke 18:18-33, Matthew 19:16-22, John 3:1-15)

Of course Jesus knew the answer, but instead of replying, he forced his questioner to answer it himself by asking “What is written in the law?” “What do you say?”

26 He said unto him, What is written in the law? How readest thou?

JESUS’ QUESTION

Jesus knew how he would respond. It would give the man the opportunity to display his knowledge of the law.

27 And he answering said, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy strength, and with all thy mind; and thy neighbor as thyself. (Deuteronomy 6:5, Leviticus 19:18, Matthew 23:37-40, Galatians 3:10-13, Galatians 3:22-25)

28 And he said unto him, Thou hast answered right: this do, and thou shalt live. (Leviticus 18:5, Ezekiel 20:11, Matthew 19:17)

Of course, to break even one part of the law, was a sin, and no man lives a perfect life. Scripture calls the law a schoolmaster, and Jesus is introducing a new era, We are saved by the grace of God, not by keeping the letter of the law.

29 But he, willing to justify himself, said unto Jesus, And who is my neighbor? (Luke 16:15)

WHO IS MY NEIGHBOR?

This opens the opportunity to introduce a whole new concept to this conversation.

30 And Jesus answering said, A certain man went down from Jerusalem to Jericho, and fell among thieves, which stripped him of his raiment, and wounded him, and departed, leaving him half dead. (Luke 18:31, Luke 19:28)

The setting is important. The road from Jerusalem was seventeen miles of winding trail that descended three thousand feet before it reached Jericho. It was seventeen miles of robber infested mountains that people hastened to get past. One can hardly blame the priest and the Levite for not delaying. Every moment is added danger.

31 And by chance there came down a certain priest that way: and when he saw him, he passed by on the other side.

32 And likewise a Levite, when he was at the place, came and looked on him, and passed by on the other side.

The lawyer would have regarded either of them to be a neighbor, but it was a hated Samaritan who stopped, and it was he, who went beyond what was required to help an injured Jew. This was Judah and not Samaria, so his even being there put him in danger from the very beginning.

33 But a certain Samaritan, as he journeyed, came where he was: and when he saw him, he had compassion on him, (Matthew 10:5, Luke 9:52)

34 And went to him, and bound up his wounds, pouring in oil and wine, and set him on his own beast, and brought him to an inn, and took care of him.

THE WAGE OF TWO DAYS LABOR

He gave up his own supplies, and his own transportation, not only that, but he gave up the price of two days labor and promised more on his return should that not be enough.

35 And on the morrow when he departed, he took out two pence, and gave them to the host, and said unto him, Take care of him; and whatsoever thou spendest more, when I come again, I will repay thee.

This is where Jesus asks the question the lawyer did not want to answer. He went to the purpose of the law, not the words only.

36 Which now of these three, thinkest thou, was neighbor unto him that fell among the thieves?

37 And he said, He that shewed mercy on him. Then said Jesus unto him, Go, and do thou likewise.

Are we taking that final step? That is the one which counts. This is the application of the golden rule. Why we do it counts!

__________

READ THE BIBLE THROUGH AGAIN IN 2011
APRIL

10th. Sunday – Deuteronomy 23, 24, Luke 12:31-59, Proverbs 9:1-12
11th. Monday – Deuteronomy 25, 26, 27, Luke 13, Psalm 44:1-12
12th. Tuesday – Deuteronomy 28, Luke 14, Psalm 44:13-28
13th. Wednesday - Deuteronomy 29, 30, 31, Luke 15, Psalm 45:1-9
14th. Thursday - Deuteronomy 32, Luke 16, Proverbs 9:13-18
15th. Friday – Deuteronomy 33, 34, Luke 17, Psalm 45:10-17
16th. Saturday - Joshua 1, Luke 18:1-17, Psalm 46

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Representing 70 world languages
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LOVE ONE ANOTHER

Several years ago at the Special Olympics, nine contestants, all physically or mentally disabled, assembled at the starting line for the 100-yard dash. At the gun, they all started out, not exactly in a dash, but with a relish to run the race to the finish and win.

All, that is, except one little boy who stumbled on the asphalt, tumbled over a couple of times, and began to cry. The other eight heard the boy cry. They slowed down and looked back. Then they all turned around and went back; every one of them.

One girl with Down's Syndrome bent down and kissed him and said: "This will make it better." Then all nine linked arms and walked together to the finish line. Everyone in the stadium stood, and the cheering went on for several minutes.

People who were there are still telling the story. Why? Because deep down we know this one thing:

What matters in this life is more than winning for ourselves. What matters in this life is helping others win, even if it means slowing down and changing our

THE LAW, THE PROPHETS, AND THE LORD GOD, BEAR WITNESS

SEARCHING THE SCRIPTURES WITH BOB
Newsletter 237 April 3, 2011

In Bible days, three witnesses were considered adequate to confirm the truth of a fact. I don’t care for such titles as “Three Ducks in a Pond,” or I would title this with the homely title of “Three P’s in a Pod.” I don’t know how many others may have done so, but I would like us to look for the three “P’s” as we progress.

Peter James and John form an inner group from among the Apostles and are often singled out to be with Jesus on crucial occasions. They were with Jesus here, they were chosen to be present for the raising of Jairus’ daughter, and they were with him in Gethsemane.

Luke 9:28-36 (King James Version)

28 And it came to pass about an eight days after these sayings, he took Peter and John and James, and went up into a mountain to pray. (Matthew 17:1-8, Mark 9:2-8, Matthew 17:1, Mark 5:1, Luke 3:21, Luke 5:15, Luke 6:12, Luke 9:18)

29 And as he prayed, the fashion of his countenance was altered, and his raiment was white and glistering. (Luke 3:21, Luke 5:16, Luke 6:12, Luke 9:18, Mark 16:12)

This is the kind of brightness that Paul had seen on the road to Damascus when he had seen Jesus and was blinded for a time. Before that, I was the kind of bright light that is associated with God the Father as He led the Children of Israel in the wilderness, and at the dedication of the Tabernacle and of the Temple. It is one of the indications of the presence of God.

30 And, behold, there talked with him two men, which were Moses and Elias:

Moses is associated with the law of God given through him. The law was crucial to the preparation of God’s chosen people. Thus, the “P” represents the preparation of a people from whom would come the Messiah.

Elijah is representative of the prophets who prophesied of the Messiah who would come to be their king so they could not fail to know him He would fulfill all the prophecies about him years before. This “P“ stands for the prophecies.

God Himself, of course, is the final of the three witnesses. God proclaimed, “.This is my beloved Son, Hear Him.” This is the final “P”. Proclaim to the world, “Jesus is the Christ, the only begotten Son of God.” We have this message for the world. .

31 Who appeared in glory, and spake of his decease which he should accomplish at Jerusalem. (2 Peter 1:15)

32 But Peter and they that were with him were heavy with sleep: and when they were awake, they saw his glory, and the two men that stood with him. (Matthew 26:43, Mark 14:40)

Peter, James and John were asleep when they were awakened by his glory, and the messengers just arrived from Heaven. As they heard them talking together, they assumed that they had come to usher in that wonderful kingdom they were expecting. It was then that God Himself spoke .

33 And it came to pass, as they departed from him, Peter said unto Jesus, Master, it is good for us to be here: and let us make three tabernacles; one for thee, and one for Moses, and one for Elias: not knowing what he said. (Luke 5:5, Luke 9:49, Matthew 17:4, Mark 9:5, Mark 9:6)

34 While he thus spake, there came a cloud, and overshadowed them: and they feared as they entered into the cloud.

35 And there came a voice out of the cloud, saying, This is my beloved Son: hear him. (2 Peter 1:17, Isaiah 42:1, Matthew 3:17, Matthew 12:18, Mark 1:11, Luke 3:22)

God ties it all together into one wonderful fact. “This is my beloved Son, hear Him.” The world does not want to hear it, but this is our commission from the top, “hear ye Him.”

36 And when the voice was past, Jesus was found alone. And they kept it close, and told no man in those days any of those things which they had seen. (Matthew 17:9, Mark 9:9)

Before Jesus ascended back to Heaven, He commanded “teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost“: (Matthew 28:19, Mark 16:15-16).

That is exactly what the Apostles did. (Acts 2:38)
__________

READ THE BIBLE THROUGH AGAIN IN 2011
APRIL

3rd. Sunday – Deuteronomy 5, 6, Luke 9:23-45. Psalm 40:9-17
4th. Monday – Deuteronomy 7, 8, 9, Luke 9:46-62, Psalm 41:1-6
5th. Tuesday – Deuteronomy 10, 11, Luke 10:1-20, Psalm 41:7-13
6th. Wednesday - Deuteronomy 12, 13, 14, Luke 10:21-42, Proverbs 8:32-36
7th. Thursday - Deuteronomy 15, 16, 17, Luke 11:1-26, Psalm 42:1-6
8th. Friday – Deuteronomy 18, 19. 20, Luke 11:27-54. Psalm 42:7-11
9th. Saturday - Deuteronomy 21, 22, Luke 12:1-30, Psalm 43

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Ctrl/click to follow these links

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http://47yearsinafrica.blogspot.com
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Questions and discussions
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Representing 70 world languages
http://searchthescriptureswithbob.blogspot.com
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http://phyllistheauthor.blogspot.com
Portions of Phyllis’ 8 published books
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__________


THIS WEEK'S SCRIPTURE

“Life is more than meat, and the body is more than raiment.” Luke 12:23

__________


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Where You Headed?

A taxi passenger tapped the driver on the shoulder to ask him a question. The driver screamed, lost control of the car, nearly hit a bus, went up on the footpath, and stopped centimeters from a shop window.

For a second everything went quiet in the cab, then the driver said, "Look mate, don't ever do that again. You scared the daylights out of me!"

The passenger apologized and said, "I didn't realize that a little tap would scare you so much."

The driver replied, "It's okay, thats not really your fault. Today is my first day as a cab driver. I've been driving a funeral van for the last 25 years."

JESUS’ RULES FOR CHRISTIAN LIVING

SEARCHING THE SCRIPTURES WITH BOB
Newsletter 236 March 27, 2011


Luke 6:27-38 (King James Version)

The ways of the world have not changed all that much. The question, “What is in it for me?” comes up in the thoughts, even if not expressed, in every business proposition. It is perhaps expressed by “What is the bottom line?” Cain killed his brother, who had done him no wrong whatsoever, because his sacrifice to God make his own a poor second. Jacob was first of all, selfish, a liar and a deceiver in order to gain the birthright from his brother, and the blessing of his father. David lusted after his neighbor‘s wife. And I have only skimmed a few of the major names of the major persons of the Old Testament accounts. There were worse examples, Ahab, and his wicked wife Jezebel. Each of them asked, “What is in it for me?”, but most of them did not look ahead to find the answer to the other question, “What is the bottom line?“

Many of the most harsh religions of the world are based on might, power, and lust. In the early days of the church, persecution came at he hand of the Roman Empire, yet they also did two things which aided the spread of Christianity. They built roads, and they spread their language throughout the known world. Those roads and a common language, spread the Gospel like wild fire, especially under persecution. Since that time, the fire of evangelism has spread under the fanning of the fires of the Sprit.

Our world today has come full circle with the powers of the Middle East and Eastern religions putting pressure on the church. But we now have computers which bridge the whole world in moments. Oceans, mountains, distance, and roads make little difference. Even language when you can used a computerized translator to convert English in moments into virtually any language you wish. It may not be a perfect translation, but, it will open the door for anyone who wants to know the truth. It is the business world that has made this possible.

Jesus did not give us a set of dos and don’ts, but we can learn much from that He said and did.

LOVE YOUR ENEMIES.

27 But I say unto you which hear, Love your enemies, do good to them which hate you, (Matthew 5:44, Luke 6:35)

Yes, those enemies of the Gospel give us the opportunity to return love for their hatred. The fact that we return love, they will not miss and that itself will spread like wildfire in a thirsty world. Don’t do this! But we all know what even a spark can do in a drought stricken field under the pressure of a windy day.

28 Bless them that curse you, and pray for them which despitefully use you.

He says, “Bless them,” and “Pray for them.” Why, for they have opened the door of opportunity.

29 And unto him that smiteth thee on the one cheek offer also the other; and him that taketh away thy cloak forbid not to take thy coat also. (Luke 6:29, Luke 6:30, Matthew 5:39-42)

He suffered beating, ridicule, and finally a crown of thorns and death. Jesus gave His all, not for the good people, but for all, for all have sinned fallen short. He still prayed for his persecutors from the cross.

30 Give to every man that asketh of thee; and of him that taketh away thy goods ask them not again.

31 And as ye would that men should do to you, do ye also to them likewise. (Matthew 7:12)

32 For if ye love them which love you, what thank have ye? for sinners also love those that love them. (Matthew 5:46)

33 And if ye do good to them which do good to you, what thank have ye? for sinners also do even the same.

34 And if ye lend to them of whom ye hope to receive, what thank have ye? for sinners also lend to sinners, to receive as much again. (Matthew 5:42)

35 But love ye your enemies, and do good, and lend, hoping for nothing again; and your reward shall be great, and ye shall be the children of the Highest: for he is kind unto the unthankful and to the evil. (Luke 6:27Matthew 5:9, :Luke 1:32)

36 Be ye therefore merciful, as your Father also is merciful.

37 Judge not, and ye shall not be judged: condemn not, and ye shall not be condemned: forgive, and ye shall be forgiven: (Luke 6:37-42. Matthew 7:1-5)

38 Give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over, shall men give into your bosom. For with the same measure that ye mete withal it shall be measured to you again.

Look at the bottom line. “I am the way, the truth and the life, No man cometh unto the Father but by me.”

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READ THE BIBLE THROUGH AGAIN IN 2011
MARCH

27th. Sunday – Numbers 26, Luke 6:27-49, Psalm 37:32-40
28th. Monday – Numbers 27, 28, 29, Luke 7:1-23, Psalm 38:1-12
29th, Tuesday – Numbers 30, 31, Luke 7:24-50, Proverbs 8:12-21
30th. Wednesday - Numbers 32, 33, Luke 8:1-18, Psalm 38:13-22
31st. Thursday - Numbers 34, 35, 36, Luke 8:19-40, Psalm 39

APRIL

1st. Friday – Deuteronomy 1, 2, Luke 8:41-56. Psalm 40:1-8
2nd. Saturday - Deuteronomy 3, 4, Luke 9:1-22, Proverbs 8:22-31

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OUR CHRISTIAN BLOG LINKS

(With links to 775 titles)

Ctrl/click to follow these links

http://searchingthescriptureswithbob.blogspot.com
Our weekly Bible Letter
http://47yearsinafrica.blogspot.com
Biographical, with photos
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Questions and discussions
http://scripturegems.blogspot.com
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http://salvationtracts.blogspot.com
Representing 70 world languages
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Short Bible studies
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Several pages in length
http://phyllistheauthor.blogspot.com
Portions of Phyllis’ 8 published books
httpv://priceless.but.free.gift.blogspot.com

__________


THIS WEEK'S SCRIPTURE

“Nevertheless when the Son of man cometh shall he find faith on the earth?”
Luke 18:8


__________

PRAISE THE LORD, I’M BACK
I can do most things now, but still have to use both hands to handle cups and heavy things. I think the Cataract operation is now looming. Dr Ku’s office phoned and asked me to contact them when I am no longer on blood thinner.

Yoke Joke


One night at an economy motel, I ordered a 6 a.m. wake-up call. The next morning, I awoke before 6, but the phone did not ring until 6:30. "Good morning," a young man said sheepishly. "This is your wake-up call."

Annoyed, I let the motel worker have it. "You were supposed to call me at 6 AM!.... I complained. "What if I had a million dollar deal to close this morning, and your oversight made me miss out?"

"Well, sir," the desk clerk boldly replied, "if you had a million dollar deal to close, you'd probably not be staying at THIS motel!"

DEMON POSSESSION, DOES IT EXIST TODAY?

Newsletter 235 March 20, 2011

Luke 4:31-37 (King James Version)
Mark 1:21-28

JESUS OFTEN ENCOUNTERED IT

I grew up in the Bible Belt of America and in a Bible believing church fellowship. Demon possession was something that we never heard about. We all just considered it as something that happened in Jesus’ day. I don’t recall it being discussed, even in seminar classes, so it was a shock to me to hear Dr Bare speak of it as, in his opinion, what many of the patients suffered from in the Iowa State Hospital which he directed for the care of the insane.

My next contact with this, came when I learned that many missionaries have come to the same explanation of things they have encountered where they work. In our case, this was suggested in connection with problems, we found, but so far as I know, were not overcome until we purchased a pair of church buildings that had been used before by a congregation that emphasized emotions and feelings much more than the Bible. We sensed something was not right. I had a bad fall and could have been killed if I had fallen a little to the left of where I did. Later I started having had a sense of a cold chill at a spot only a few feet away from where I had fallen It was then that I commanded any evil spirit depart from there and never return, in Jesus name. I did not think to send him to any particular place, but later Phyllis had the same experience in another part of the building. She told me about it later and added that she had told him to go live under the bridge in the park nearby.

31 And (Jesus) came down to Capernaum, a city of Galilee, and taught them on the sabbath days. (Matthew 4:13, Luke 4:23)

32 And they were astonished at his doctrine: for his word was with power. (Matthew 7:28, Luke 4:36, John 7:46)

EVEN IN A PLACE OF WORSHIP

It does not come as a surprise that Jesus taught with power. (Matthew 28:18) We knew that he cast out demons on many occasions, but this was in a house of worship, a synagogue. These were believers, not necessarily in his divinity, but certainly believers in God his Father. To find such people to have demons is surprising.

33 And in the synagogue there was a man, which had a spirit of an unclean devil, and cried out with a loud voice,

HE NEVER ACCEPTED THEIR PRAISE AND TESTIMONY

There was never a time when Jesus permitted a demon to testify on his behalf. The same is true of the Apostle Paul. We read of demons who believe, but never that it is a belief that results in repentance.

34 Saying, Let us alone; what have we to do with thee, thou Jesus of Nazareth? art thou come to destroy us? I know thee who thou art; the Holy One of God. (Matthew 8:29, Mark 1:24)

35 And Jesus rebuked him, saying, Hold thy peace, and come out of him. And when the devil had thrown him in the midst, he came out of him, and hurt him not. (Matthew 8:26, Mark 4:39, Luke 4:39, Luke 4:41, Luke 8:24)

JESUS HAD ALL POWER

36 And they were all amazed, and spake among themselves, saying, What a word is this! for with authority and power he commandeth the unclean spirits, and they come out. (Luke 4:32)

37 And the fame of him went out into every place of the country round about. (Luke 4:14)

Just as we are admonished to entertain strangers, for we never know but that we may be entertaining angels, we are told also be discerning that we are not hosting demons. It may only a coincidence, but that bridge in the park, happens to be exactly where I tripped and fell months later resulting in my left elbow being shattered, and ultimately to our retirement after only 47 years in Africa. Our God has prepared a place for Satan and his demons, a place which terrifies them as the time draws near when they must go there.

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READ THE BIBLE THROUGH AGAIN IN 2011
MARCH

20th. Sunday – Numbers 8, 9, 10, Luke 3:1-17, Psalm 35:19-28
21st. Monday – Numbers 11, 12, 13, Luke 3:18-38, Proverbs 7:21-27
22nd. Tuesday – Numbers 14. 15, Luke 4:1-22, Psalm 36
23rd. Wednesday - Numbers 16, 17, Luke 4:23-44, Psalm 37:1-9
24th. Thursday - Numbers 18, 19, 20, Luke 5:1-17, Psalm 37:10-20
25th. Friday – Numbers 21, 22, Luke 5:18-39, Proverbs 8:1-11
26th. Saturday - Numbers 23, 24, 25, Luke 6:1-26, Psalm 37:21-31

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OUR CHRISTIAN BLOG LINKS

(With links to 774 titles)

Ctrl/click to follow these 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’ 8 published books
httpv://priceless.but.free.gift.blogspot.com

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THIS WEEK'S SCRIPTURE

“It is written, that man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word of God.
Luke 4:4”


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PRAISE THE LORD, I’M BACK

It seems that my problems are the result of a bad disk and pinched nerves in my neck and not my right hand, I am on therapy for a while and the hand is slowiy coming right with my own routines. I still can’t write script, feed myself well enough to eat in company, or really type on the computer with more than two fingers.

› Visit Amazon's P J Mills Page

JOHN THE FORERUNNER

It seems that my problems are SEARCHING THE SCRIPTURES WITH BOB
Newsletter 234 March 13, 2011

Luke 1:5-17 (King James Version)

5 THERE was in the days of Herod, the king of Judaea, a certain priest named Zacharias, of the course of Abia: and his wife was of the daughters of Aaron, and her name was Elisabeth. (Matthew 2:1, 1Chronicles 24:10)

6 And they were both righteous before God, walking in all the commandments and ordinances of the Lord blameless. Genesis 7,1. Acts 2:25, Acts 8:21, Philippians 2:15, Philippians 3:6, 1 Thessalonians 3:13)

7 And they had no child, because that Elisabeth was barren, and they both were now well stricken in years.

8 And it came to pass, that while he executed the priest's office before God in the order of his course, (1 Chronicles 24:19, 2 Chronicles 8:14, 2 Chronicles 32:1)

9 According to the custom of the priest's office, his lot was to burn incense when he went into the temple of the Lord. (Exodus 30:21)

10 And the whole multitude of the people were praying without at the time of incense. (Leviticus 16:17)

11 And there appeared unto him an angel of the Lord standing on the right side of the altar of incense. (Luke 2:9, Acts 5:19)

12 And when Zacharias saw him, he was troubled, and fear fell upon him. (Luke 2:9)

13 But the angel said unto him, Fear not, Zacharias: for thy prayer is heard; and thy wife Elisabeth shall bear thee a son, and thou shalt call his name John. (Matthew 14:27, Luke 1:30, Luke 1:60, Luke 1:63)

14 And thou shalt have joy and gladness; and many shall rejoice at his birth.

15 For he shall be great in the sight of the Lord, and shall drink neither wine nor strong drink; and he shall be filled with the Holy Ghost, even from his mother's womb. (Numbers 6:3, Judges 13:4, Matthew 11:18, Luke 7:33)

16 And many of the children of Israel shall he turn to the Lord their God. (Matthew 3:2, Matthew 3:6, Luke 3:3)

17 And he shall go before him in the spirit and power of Elias, to turn the hearts of the fathers to the children, and the disobedient to the wisdom of the just; to make ready a people prepared for the Lord. (Luke 1:76, Matthew 11:14. Malachi 4:6)

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READ THE BIBLE THROUGH AGAIN IN 2011
MARCH

13th. Sunday – Leviticus 25, Luke 1:1-25, Proverbs 7:1-5
14th. Monday – Leviticus 26, 27, Luke 1:26-38, Psalm 34:1-7
15th. Tuesday – Numbers 1, Luke 1:39-56, Psalm 34:8-14
16th. Wednesday - Numbers 2, 3, Luke 1:57-80, Psalm 34:15-22
17th. Thursday - Numbers 4, Luke 2:1-20, Proverbs 7:6-20
18th. Friday – Numbers 5, 6, Luke 2:21-40, Psalm 35:1-10
19th. Saturday - Numbers 7, Luke 2:41-52, Psalm 35:11-18

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OUR CHRISTIAN BLOG LINKS

(With links to 773 titles)

Ctrl/click to follow these 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’ 8 published books
httpv://priceless.but.free.gift.blogspot.com
__________


THIS WEEK'S SCRIPTURE

“He came unto al the country about Jordan, preaching the baptism of repentance for the remission of sins;”

Luke 3:3
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PRAISE THE LORD, I’M BACKthe result of a bad disk and pinched nerves in my neck and not my right hand, I am on therapy for a while and the hand is slowiy coming right with my own routines. I still can’t write script, feed myself well enough to eat in company, or really type on the computer with more than two fingers.
› Visit Amazon's P J Mills Page

Do you have a new e-book reader? Even if you don’t, you can still read ebooks on your computer. I have downloaded the new English Standard Bible and stacks of classics at no charge at all, using Amazon’s free downloaded software. (Also for Ipad, Mac. Iphone, PC and almost anything else.) I have all Phyllis’ e-books. Not only that, even for recent books, you can download the opening chapter free, read it and see if you want to buy the whole book or not. One click changes the review to an order. If you read it you can also select the type size, highlight, add notes and place book marks at your leisure. I am highlighting my Bible now, the next reading, I plan to add notes and comments in the sidebar. I am reading books I had heard of but never seen, even in a second hand bookstore! It only took a few minutes to select, download and start reading them. When I am done, I can either choose to keep them in the computer or with a flick of a finger, erase them, as I have done a few that I don’t expect to ever read again. I doubt if I will ever read “The Tale of two Cities” again but so far I just left it there. The same is true of “The House of Seven Gables,” But “Pilgrim’s Progress” I will keep.
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It Takes Fifty Years To Learn...

1. If you had to identify, in one word, the reason why the human race has not achieved and never will achieve its full potential, that word would be "meetings."

2. There is a very fine line between "hobby" and "mental illness."

3. People who want to share their religious views with you almost never want you to share yours with them.

4. You should not confuse your career with your life.

5. Never lick a steak knife.

6. The most destructive force in the universe is gossip.

7. You will never find anybody who can give you a clear and compelling reason why we observe daylight savings time.

8. There comes a time when you should stop expecting other people to make a big deal about your birthday. That time is age eleven.

9. The one thing that unites all human beings, regardless of age, gender, religion, economic status or ethnic background, is that, deep down inside, we ALL believe that we are above average drivers.

10. A person who is nice to you but rude to a waiter is not a nice person. (This is very important. Pay attention. It never fails.)

THE PARALYTIC HEALED

Newsletter 233 February 18, 2011

Mark 2:1-14

CAPERNAUM

This chapter of Mark’s book is filled with things that Jesus did; not so much what he said. We can know what he was saying as that is covered in the other books. I personally find the healing of the paralytic man to stand out from many of the others. That is probably because it is so graphic in nature and I may have seen the ruins of the building where it took place. Very near the ancient synagogue in Capernaum there are also the ruins of a house, reported to have been that of Simon Peter. If Jesus was staying in a house there, where better could he be than in Peter’s house? Typically, it had a flat roof made up of large tiles supported by cross beams and sealed with plaster to make it water proof. That plaster could easily be broken and the tiles lifted. Access to the roof was common as it served s a quiet, and cool deck for evening use and even as a sleeping place during the heat of the Summer. I picture all of the apostles doing that after a long day with the Lord..

1 And again he entered into Capernaum after some days; and it was noised that he was in the house.

On this occasion, as he was teaching in the house in a packed room, the friends of the paralytic found that they could not get into the room with their friend on his mat, so they went to the roof, broke through the plaster, and lifting the tiles, they lowered him down before the Lord. I have personally experienced such gatherings.

2 And straightway many were gathered together, insomuch that there was no room to receive them, no, not so much as about the door: and he preached the word unto them. (Mark 1:45, Mark 2:13)

3 And they come unto him, bringing one sick of the palsy, which was borne of four. (Mark 2:3-12, Matthew 9:2-8, Luke 5:18-26, Matthew 4:24)

4 And when they could not come nigh unto him for the press, they uncovered the roof where he was: and when they had broken it up, they let down the bed wherein the sick of the palsy lay. (Luke 5:19, Matthew 4:24)

They were confident that, if they could reach Jesus, he would help them, and he did. But, note that he went beyond what they asked. Jesus used all his miracles to show his divinity, more than just for what was asked. Only God could forgive sins. He forgave the man’s sins first, then healed him.

5 When Jesus saw their faith, he said unto the sick of the palsy, Son, thy sins be forgiven thee. (Matthew 9:2)

Even in Galilee, there were those, here the scribes, who were seeking to destroy his message and deny his divinity. They did not even have to say anything, Jesus
Knew what was in their hearts just as he knows what is in our hearts today. Nothing is hidden from God. We are to be judged by what is in our hearsts as well as what is expressed and done.

6 But there was certain of the scribes sitting there, and reasoning in their hearts,

7 Why doth this man thus speak blasphemies? who can forgive sins but God only? (Isaiah 43:25)

8 And immediately when Jesus perceived in his spirit that they so reasoned within themselves, he said unto them, Why reason ye these things in your hearts?

Four men brought him in, but he walked out on his own, cured. We can walk into a place of worship a sinner and walk out a saint through the power of Jesus Christ. In our hearts we repent of our sins, with our mouth we confess the divinity of our Lord, and we are freed of our sins through obedience to him in Christian baptism. We, with the Spirit, walk out a changed person. I have seen it happen time and times again.

9 Whether is it easier to say to the sick of the palsy, Thy sins be forgiven thee; or to say, Arise, and take up thy bed, and walk? (Matthew 4:24)

10 But that ye may know that the Son of man hath power on earth to forgive sins, (he saith to the sick of the palsy,

11 I say unto thee, Arise, and take up thy bed, and go thy way into thine house.

12 And immediately he arose, took up the bed, and went forth before them all; insomuch that they were all amazed, and glorified God, saying, We never saw it on this fashion. (Matthew 9:8, Matthew 9:33)

13 And he went forth again by the sea side; and all the multitude resorted unto him, and he taught them. (Mark 1:45)

14 And as he passed by, he saw Levi the son of Alphaeus sitting at the receipt of custom, and said unto him, Follow me. And he arose and followed him. (Mark 2:14-17, Matthew 9:9-13, Luk2 5:27-32, Matthew 9:9, Matthew 8:22)

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RESOLVE TO READ THE BIBLE THROUGH AGAIN IN 2011
FEBRUARY

20th. Sunday – Exodus 23,24, Mark 5:1-20, Psalm 23
21st. Monday – Exodus 25, 26, Mark 5:21-43, Proverbs 5:15-23
22nd. Tuesday – Exodus 27, 28, Mark 6:1-29, Psalm 24
23rd. Wednesday-- Exodus 29, 30, Mark 6:30-56, Psalm 25:1-11
24th. Thursday -- Exodus 31, 32, Mark 7, Psalm 25:12-22
25th. Friday – Exodus 33, 34, Mark 8, Proverbs 6:1-11
26th. Saturday-- Exodus 35, 36, Mark 9:1-32, Psalm 26

_________

OUR CHRISTIAN BLOG LINKS

(With links to 772 titles)

Ctrl/click to follow these links

http://searchingthescriptureswithbob.blogspot.com
Our weekly Be 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’ 8 published books


__
________


THIS WEEK'S SCRIPTURE
“John did baptize in the wilderness, and preach the baptism of repentance for the remission of sins. ”

John 1:4

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See Spot Talk...
A guy is driving around and he sees a sign in front of a house: "Talking Dog For Sale."

He rings the bell, and the owner tells him the dog is in the backyard. The guy goes around the house and into the backyard and sees a handsome Labrador Retriever sitting there.

"You talk?" he asks.

"Yep," the Lab replies.

"So, what's your story?"

The Lab looks up and says, "Well, I discovered that I could talk when I was pretty young, and I wanted to help the government; so I told the CIA about my gift, and in no time at all they had me jetting from country to country, sitting in rooms with spies and world leaders, because no one figured a dog would be eavesdropping.

I was one of their most valuable spies for eight years running. But the jetting around really tired me out, and I knew I wasn't getting any younger so I wanted to settle down. I signed up for a job at the airport to do some undercover security work, mostly wandering near suspicious characters and listening in. I uncovered some incredible dealings and was awarded a batch of medals. I got married, had a mess of puppies, and now I'm just retired."

The guy is amazed. He goes back in and asks the owner what he wants for the dog.

"Ten dollars", says the owner.

The guy says, "This dog is amazing! Why on earth are you selling him so cheap?"

"Because he's a liar. He didn't do any of that stuff."
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PUBLICATION CLOSED FOR A BREAK FOR HEALTH REASONS. The evening of the 17th Bob lost all control over his right hand which just went limp and would not respond. A stroke was suspected, by all, including the hospital’s leading neurologist. The next two days were spent checking and double testing this, but Friday afternoon , after hours in the hospital’s huge MRI machine, it was decided it is not a stroke, but something else, and he was discharged and will go for outpatient cervical traction therapy. A damaged neck disk is suspected.

PUBLICATION WILL RESUME WHEN HE IS ABLE TO REGAIN THE USE OF HIS HAND.
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PREACH THE GOSPEL TO EVERY NATION - Mark 16:15,16

Send us the addresses of friends whose home language is not English,
bob2search@yahoo.com

• Their name
• Their language of choice
• Their e-mail address
• And we will do the rest !

(We use Google Translator)