Sunday, September 4, 2016
GOD SPEAKS - GOOD NEWS IN A BAD WORLD: ROMANS 6:23
A good video from my friend Chaim. Enjoy and God bless you all!
GOD'S PROMISES FOR YOUR EVERY NEED (NKJV)
What the Bible has to say about...The Grace of God!
"And with great power the Apostles gave witness to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus. And great grace was upon them all." Acts 4:33
"And so find favor and high esteem in the sight of God and man." Provers 3:4
"For the Lord God is a sun and shield; the Lord will give grace and glory; no good thing will He withhold from those who walk uprightly." Psalm 84:11
"So the Lord said to Moses, 'I will also do this thing that you have spoken; for you have found grace in my sight, and I know you by name." Exodus 33:17
"You have granted me life and favor, and Your care has preserved my spirit." Job 10:12
"For You, O Lord, will bless the righteous; with favor You will surround him as with a shield." Psalm 5:12
"Lord by Your favor You have made my mountain stand strong; You hid Your face, and I was troubled." Psalm 30:7
"The Lord has been mindful of us; He will bless us; He will bless the house of Israel; He will bless the house of Aaron. He will bless those who fear the Lord, both small and great." Psalm 115:12-13
"For whoever finds Me finds life, and obtains favor from the Lord." Proverbs 8:35
"Blessings are on the head of the righteous, but violence covers the mouth of the wicked. The blessings of the Lord makes one rich, and He adds no sorrow with it. The fear of the wicked will come upon him and the desire of the righteous will be granted." Proverbs 10:6, 22, and 24
"Fools mock at sin, but among the upright there is favor." Proverbs 14:9
"The sons of foreigners shall build up your walls, and their kings shall minister to you; for in My wrath I struck you, but in My favor I have had mercy on you." Isaiah 60:10
"For all things are for your sakes, that grace, having spread through the many, may cause thanksgiving to abound to the glory of God." Second Corinthians 4:15
"To the praise of the glory of His grace, by which He made us accepted in the Beloved." Ephesians 1:6
"Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need." Hebrews 4:16
"And with great power the Apostles gave witness to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus. And great grace was upon them all." Acts 4:33
"And so find favor and high esteem in the sight of God and man." Provers 3:4
"For the Lord God is a sun and shield; the Lord will give grace and glory; no good thing will He withhold from those who walk uprightly." Psalm 84:11
"So the Lord said to Moses, 'I will also do this thing that you have spoken; for you have found grace in my sight, and I know you by name." Exodus 33:17
"You have granted me life and favor, and Your care has preserved my spirit." Job 10:12
"For You, O Lord, will bless the righteous; with favor You will surround him as with a shield." Psalm 5:12
"Lord by Your favor You have made my mountain stand strong; You hid Your face, and I was troubled." Psalm 30:7
"The Lord has been mindful of us; He will bless us; He will bless the house of Israel; He will bless the house of Aaron. He will bless those who fear the Lord, both small and great." Psalm 115:12-13
"For whoever finds Me finds life, and obtains favor from the Lord." Proverbs 8:35
"Blessings are on the head of the righteous, but violence covers the mouth of the wicked. The blessings of the Lord makes one rich, and He adds no sorrow with it. The fear of the wicked will come upon him and the desire of the righteous will be granted." Proverbs 10:6, 22, and 24
"Fools mock at sin, but among the upright there is favor." Proverbs 14:9
"The sons of foreigners shall build up your walls, and their kings shall minister to you; for in My wrath I struck you, but in My favor I have had mercy on you." Isaiah 60:10
"For all things are for your sakes, that grace, having spread through the many, may cause thanksgiving to abound to the glory of God." Second Corinthians 4:15
"To the praise of the glory of His grace, by which He made us accepted in the Beloved." Ephesians 1:6
"Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need." Hebrews 4:16
THE RESURRECTION OF OUR LORD AND SAVIOR, CHRIST JESUS - By: Derrick Brooks
Matthew 28 King James Version (KJV)
28 In the end of the sabbath, as it began to dawn toward the first day of the week, came Mary Magdalene and the other Mary to see the sepulchre.
2 And, behold, there was a great earthquake: for the angel of the Lord descended from heaven, and came and rolled back the stone from the door, and sat upon it.
3 His countenance was like lightning, and his raiment white as snow:
4 And for fear of him the keepers did shake, and became as dead men.
5 And the angel answered and said unto the women, Fear not ye: for I know that ye seek Jesus, which was crucified.
6 He is not here: for he is risen, as he said. Come, see the place where the Lord lay.
7 And go quickly, and tell his disciples that he is risen from the dead; and, behold, he goeth before you into Galilee; there shall ye see him: lo, I have told you.
8 And they departed quickly from the sepulchre with fear and great joy; and did run to bring his disciples word.
9 And as they went to tell his disciples, behold, Jesus met them, saying, All hail. And they came and held him by the feet, and worshipped him.
10 Then said Jesus unto them, Be not afraid: go tell my brethren that they go into Galilee, and there shall they see me.
11 Now when they were going, behold, some of the watch came into the city, and shewed unto the chief priests all the things that were done.
12 And when they were assembled with the elders, and had taken counsel, they gave large money unto the soldiers,
13 Saying, Say ye, His disciples came by night, and stole him away while we slept.
14 And if this come to the governor's ears, we will persuade him, and secure you.
15 So they took the money, and did as they were taught: and this saying is commonly reported among the Jews until this day.
16 Then the eleven disciples went away into Galilee, into a mountain where Jesus had appointed them.
17 And when they saw him, they worshipped him: but some doubted.
18 And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth.
19 Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost:
20 Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world. Amen
28 In the end of the sabbath, as it began to dawn toward the first day of the week, came Mary Magdalene and the other Mary to see the sepulchre.
2 And, behold, there was a great earthquake: for the angel of the Lord descended from heaven, and came and rolled back the stone from the door, and sat upon it.
3 His countenance was like lightning, and his raiment white as snow:
4 And for fear of him the keepers did shake, and became as dead men.
5 And the angel answered and said unto the women, Fear not ye: for I know that ye seek Jesus, which was crucified.
6 He is not here: for he is risen, as he said. Come, see the place where the Lord lay.
7 And go quickly, and tell his disciples that he is risen from the dead; and, behold, he goeth before you into Galilee; there shall ye see him: lo, I have told you.
8 And they departed quickly from the sepulchre with fear and great joy; and did run to bring his disciples word.
9 And as they went to tell his disciples, behold, Jesus met them, saying, All hail. And they came and held him by the feet, and worshipped him.
10 Then said Jesus unto them, Be not afraid: go tell my brethren that they go into Galilee, and there shall they see me.
11 Now when they were going, behold, some of the watch came into the city, and shewed unto the chief priests all the things that were done.
12 And when they were assembled with the elders, and had taken counsel, they gave large money unto the soldiers,
13 Saying, Say ye, His disciples came by night, and stole him away while we slept.
14 And if this come to the governor's ears, we will persuade him, and secure you.
15 So they took the money, and did as they were taught: and this saying is commonly reported among the Jews until this day.
16 Then the eleven disciples went away into Galilee, into a mountain where Jesus had appointed them.
17 And when they saw him, they worshipped him: but some doubted.
18 And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth.
19 Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost:
20 Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world. Amen
THE FIRST FALSE CHURCH - By: Eligah Barrett on Google Plus
THE ORIGIN OF THE GREAT FALSE CHURCH
GOD'S NEW TESTAMENT CHURCH OFFICIALLY BEGAN ON THE DAY of Pentecost, June 17, 31 A.D.
REVELATION 2 CALLS THIS FIRST Era of the Church the Ephesus era. This era could not have had a better beginning. Christ personally laid its foundation. Luke is the unquestioned author of the book of Acts. He wrote it around A.D. 62, thirty one years after the true Church began. It was written to a man named Theophilus as a companion book to Luke's gospel account Acts1:1.
Bibles cho Lars agree that the book of Acts contains important early Church history. But a close study of this book reveals that it's history is quite selective. Luke's accouterments is best known as the Acts of the Apostles. However, the book is silent on the acts of at least 10 of the original Apostles. Does that mean these Apostles did not do an important work? Absolutely not! They did many mighty works.
In this book, Luke records only those events that affected the early Church in a major way. His exclusion of certain events shows that God canonized only those events that were vital for God's Church of the future to know.
The Ephesus era began very small. Christ led His disciples for 3 1/2 years, and then the world killed Him. Verse 15 reveals that even after all of Christ's preaching and miracles, there were only 120 disciples!
MOST OF THE PERSECUTION AGAINST GOD'S PEOPLE CAME FROM FALSE RELIGION. If Christ physically headed a little group today, this world would kill Him again! The chief culprit would be false religion.
On the day of Pentecost after Christ's death, the original disciples and new converts were given the Holy Spirit and inflamed with a, passion to proclaim Christ gospel. The newly spirit begotten Church had a significant impact on the people and society, beginning at Jerusalem. The Ephesus era began to grow. Three thousand members were added during the Pentecost season Acts 2:1, 41.
The fantastic events of Pentecost in A.D. 31 began to create a stir within the Jewish community and among Jewish leaders Acts 2. Then came a dramatic healing of a man just outside the temple gate called Beautiful Acts 3. This man was well known as having been lame from birth. Many had given him alms before entering the temple grounds. Not many days after Pentecost, Peter and John were entering the temple. When this man begged for money, they healed him instead. Peter and John were immediately summoned before the Jewish high council. They were threatened yet they were undaunted!
The preaching of Christ's gospel gained momentum. The Church experienced rapid growth from 120 to about 5000 members by the time of Acts 4:4. This growth provoked serious persecution. Jewish leaders became incensed and fearful. The Apostles were thrown in prison Acts 5:18. An angel released them and told them to return to the temple and preach. When they obeyed, the Work grew even more.
Jewish leaders wanted to stop this new, overzealous faction. Their persecution became far more intense and deadly. Men, women and even whole families were slaughtered.
Stephen, one of the original seven deacons, was a man of faith and zeal. God was able to work many miracles through him and his work was noticed. Stephen was arrested and brought before the Jewish council. At his trial, in his own defense, Stephen preached a convicting and condemning sermon Acts 7. His message of truth enraged the Jews. The high priest and council went mad.
Then they cried out with a loud voice, and stopped their ears, and ran upon him with one accord, And cast him out of the city, and stoned him and the witnesses laid down their clothes at a young man's feet, whose name was Saul. And they stone Stephen, calling upon God, and saying, Lord Jesus, receive my spirit. And he kneeled down, and cried with a loud voice, Lord lay not this sin to their charge. And when he had said this, he fell asleep verses 57-60. These religious leaders stoned Stephen to death. HIS ONLY CRIME WAS PREACHING GOD'S TRUTH! Remember, these men represented a religion that talked much about love! May God protect us from such loving religious!
PRAY FOR YOUR PASTORS - By yolanda Bacchus
Thank God for the true servants of God that are labouring diligently for the kingdom of God. I pray for you and your families that God will strengthen, bless and keep you in perfect peace. Thank you for all your prayers and support.
1 Thessalonians 5:12-17, 24 KJV
And we beseech you, brethren, to know them which labour among you, and are over you in the Lord, and admonish you; [13] And to esteem them very highly in love for their work's sake. And be at peace among yourselves. [14] Now we exhort you, brethren, warn them that are unruly, comfort the feebleminded, support the weak, be patient toward all men . [15] See that none render evil for evil unto any man ; but ever follow that which is good, both among yourselves, and to all men . [16] Rejoice evermore. [17] Pray without ceasing. [24] Faithful is he that calleth you, who also will do it.
THE FEAR OF GOD IS LOST IN TODAY'S CHURCHES - SHORT VIDEO
I wrote a post earlier this evening on why I have left the church "buildings." I thought I'd post this to further explain a part of the reasons why I've left. There are just too many to list. God bless all and please, if you have a good, Bible-preaching pastor, give him your support --- both in prayer and financially! God bless you all.
FUNNY PICTURES
I don't post political things on my blog however, I am very conservative. I am NOT a Hillary supporter. I also love laughter and funny things, so long as they're clean. So, I'm going to share a couple of funny pictures for your enjoyment that are not Christian in nature BUT God gave us the wonderful gift of laughter and it's meant to be used. After all, laughter is really good medicine! God bless all and have a happy, safe and blessed Labor Day, although we Christians don't get a day off from laboring for the lost. Spread the WORD!
CHRISTIAN APOLOGETICS - INTERVIEWING CHRISTIANS
The following video is about Christian Apologetics. We are called to "always be ready to defend our faith." This is what this is all about. It's quite amazing to watch and listen. It's not as hard as you would think! God bless you and enjoy!
"THE GOSPEL OF JOHN"
Information on "The Gospel According to John" in my Authorized KJV Bible
Just as a coin has two sides, both valid, so Jesus Christ has two natures, both valid. Luke presents Christ Jesus in His humanity as the Son of Man; John portrays Him in His deity as the Son of God. John's purpose is crystal clear: to set forth Christ Jesus in His deity in order to spark believing faith in his readers. John's Gospel is topical, not primarily chronological, and it revolves around seven miracles and seven "I Am" statements of Christ Jesus.
Following an extended eyewitness description of the Upper Room meal and discourse, John records events leading up to the Resurrection, the final climactic proof that Jesus is Who He claims to be --- the Son of God.
The title of the Fourth Gospel follows the same format as the titles of the synoptic Gospels; Kata Ioannen, "According to John." As with the others, the word "Gospel" was added later. Ioannes is derived from the Hebrew name Johanan, "Yahwey Has Been Gracious."
This concludes the information on the four Gospels --- Matthew, Mark, Luke and John, the Books that are about the birth, life, death and resurrection of our Lord and Savior, Christ Jesus. If you read the others concurrently (see archives) you will see how they harmonize perfectly, each showing a different "nature" of Christ Jesus.
A bit more information on the Apostle John...he was "the disciple that Jesus loved." Also, he was the only Apostle that was not martyred and lived a long life and died of natural causes, although it is not known how or when John died. It is well-believed that he lived out the rest of his life in Ephesus after the Revelation of Christ Jesus while in exile in Patmos. Below you will find a full-length movie based on his Gospel. It follows the Holy Scriptures completely with very little dramatic license. It's long but well worth watching. Tomorrow I will give information on the other books of the New Testament as well as the Old. God bless you all and enjoy the movie. It brings John's Gospel to life as well as the life of Jesus Christ.
Just as a coin has two sides, both valid, so Jesus Christ has two natures, both valid. Luke presents Christ Jesus in His humanity as the Son of Man; John portrays Him in His deity as the Son of God. John's purpose is crystal clear: to set forth Christ Jesus in His deity in order to spark believing faith in his readers. John's Gospel is topical, not primarily chronological, and it revolves around seven miracles and seven "I Am" statements of Christ Jesus.
Following an extended eyewitness description of the Upper Room meal and discourse, John records events leading up to the Resurrection, the final climactic proof that Jesus is Who He claims to be --- the Son of God.
The title of the Fourth Gospel follows the same format as the titles of the synoptic Gospels; Kata Ioannen, "According to John." As with the others, the word "Gospel" was added later. Ioannes is derived from the Hebrew name Johanan, "Yahwey Has Been Gracious."
This concludes the information on the four Gospels --- Matthew, Mark, Luke and John, the Books that are about the birth, life, death and resurrection of our Lord and Savior, Christ Jesus. If you read the others concurrently (see archives) you will see how they harmonize perfectly, each showing a different "nature" of Christ Jesus.
A bit more information on the Apostle John...he was "the disciple that Jesus loved." Also, he was the only Apostle that was not martyred and lived a long life and died of natural causes, although it is not known how or when John died. It is well-believed that he lived out the rest of his life in Ephesus after the Revelation of Christ Jesus while in exile in Patmos. Below you will find a full-length movie based on his Gospel. It follows the Holy Scriptures completely with very little dramatic license. It's long but well worth watching. Tomorrow I will give information on the other books of the New Testament as well as the Old. God bless you all and enjoy the movie. It brings John's Gospel to life as well as the life of Jesus Christ.
A CHURCH THAT DOES NOT CARE...by Jessica D'Asaro on Google Plus
Posted with permission...
Good Evening. I want to spend what's left of my birthday today with you. How is everyone doing? May this listen touch you.
A church that cares not for truth is a community that rejects its very mission. The person who says, " I'm not interested in doctrine or theology," is not "of the truth". He or she has missed the voice of Jesus.
For the church to be the church, she must bow before her King and embrace the mission He has given to her. Yes, we desire a cultural reformation and a restoration of public morality. But that is secondary to and dependent on our mission to bear witness to the truth. Doctrine is important because its central concern is for an understanding of truth, without which there can be no godliness. It is the truth that sets us free, reforms our behavior, and defines us as disciples of Christ.
The world does not see or understand the city of God. It is a hidden city, a concealed kingdom.It is veiled by falsehood, by he who seeks to obscure the truth. The truth is that at this moment Jesus is the King of kings. This world is under His dominion. We are citizens in His realm. We must not negotiate or retreat from that affirmation. The kingdom of God comprises those people who believe what God says and obey when God commands.
I am here for you. I pray for your Salvation. May the touch of Christ fill you as you answer His knocking as you surrender to Him. For those who have their salvation in Christ it is always good every now and again to rededicate your life to and before Him.
May you have a special evening. In my prayers always. God Bless. Here if you need prayer and have prayer requests.
Good Evening. I want to spend what's left of my birthday today with you. How is everyone doing? May this listen touch you.
A church that cares not for truth is a community that rejects its very mission. The person who says, " I'm not interested in doctrine or theology," is not "of the truth". He or she has missed the voice of Jesus.
For the church to be the church, she must bow before her King and embrace the mission He has given to her. Yes, we desire a cultural reformation and a restoration of public morality. But that is secondary to and dependent on our mission to bear witness to the truth. Doctrine is important because its central concern is for an understanding of truth, without which there can be no godliness. It is the truth that sets us free, reforms our behavior, and defines us as disciples of Christ.
The world does not see or understand the city of God. It is a hidden city, a concealed kingdom.It is veiled by falsehood, by he who seeks to obscure the truth. The truth is that at this moment Jesus is the King of kings. This world is under His dominion. We are citizens in His realm. We must not negotiate or retreat from that affirmation. The kingdom of God comprises those people who believe what God says and obey when God commands.
I am here for you. I pray for your Salvation. May the touch of Christ fill you as you answer His knocking as you surrender to Him. For those who have their salvation in Christ it is always good every now and again to rededicate your life to and before Him.
May you have a special evening. In my prayers always. God Bless. Here if you need prayer and have prayer requests.
NEW JERUSALEM AWAITING US...by AbaloneKid (Chaim)
NEW JERUSALEM AWAITING US
The Lord will , one day, escort us into a city he has built for us called new Jerusalem. From there we will follow him throughout the galaxies in love. There will be no more tears or sorrow. Death will have been vanquished. We will be perfected in Christ forever.
"...I go to prepare a place for you..." (John 14:2)
"And I John, saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down from God out of heaven, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband"(Rev.21:2).
"For here we have no continuing city, but we seek one to come" (Heb.13:14)
"Surely I come quickly" Rev.22:20
Revelation 21
"1 And I saw a new heaven and a new earth: for the first heaven and the first earth were passed away; and there was no more sea.
2 And I John saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down from God out of heaven, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband.
3 And I heard a great voice out of heaven saying, Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, and he will dwell with them, and they shall be his people, and God himself shall be with them, and be their God.
4 And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away.
5 And he that sat upon the throne said, Behold, I make all things new. And he said unto me, Write: for these words are true and faithful.
6 And he said unto me, It is done. I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end. I will give unto him that is athirst of the fountain of the water of life freely.
7 He that overcometh shall inherit all things; and I will be his God, and he shall be my son.
8 But the fearful, and unbelieving, and the abominable, and murderers, and whoremongers, and sorcerers, and idolaters, and all liars, shall have their part in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone: which is the second death.
9 And there came unto me one of the seven angels which had the seven vials full of the seven last plagues, and talked with me, saying, Come hither, I will shew thee the bride, the Lamb's wife.
10 And he carried me away in the spirit to a great and high mountain, and shewed me that great city, the holy Jerusalem, descending out of heaven from God,
11 Having the glory of God: and her light was like unto a stone most precious, even like a jasper stone, clear as crystal;
12 And had a wall great and high, and had twelve gates, and at the gates twelve angels, and names written thereon, which are the names of the twelve tribes of the children of Israel:
13 On the east three gates; on the north three gates; on the south three gates; and on the west three gates.
14 And the wall of the city had twelve foundations, and in them the names of the twelve apostles of the Lamb.
15 And he that talked with me had a golden reed to measure the city, and the gates thereof, and the wall thereof.
16 And the city lieth foursquare, and the length is as large as the breadth: and he measured the city with the reed, twelve thousand furlongs. The length and the breadth and the height of it are equal.
17 And he measured the wall thereof, an hundred and forty and four cubits, according to the measure of a man, that is, of the angel.
22 And I saw no temple therein: for the Lord God Almighty and the Lamb are the temple of it.
23 And the city had no need of the sun, neither of the moon, to shine in it: for the glory of God did lighten it, and the Lamb is the light thereof.
24 And the nations of them which are saved shall walk in the light of it: and the kings of the earth do bring their glory and honour into it.
25 And the gates of it shall not be shut at all by day: for there shall be no night there.
26 And they shall bring the glory and honour of the nations into it.
27 And there shall in no wise enter into it any thing that defileth, neither whatsoever worketh abomination, or maketh a lie: but they which are written in the Lamb's book of life."
Chaim, least
The Lord will , one day, escort us into a city he has built for us called new Jerusalem. From there we will follow him throughout the galaxies in love. There will be no more tears or sorrow. Death will have been vanquished. We will be perfected in Christ forever.
"...I go to prepare a place for you..." (John 14:2)
"And I John, saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down from God out of heaven, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband"(Rev.21:2).
"For here we have no continuing city, but we seek one to come" (Heb.13:14)
"Surely I come quickly" Rev.22:20
Revelation 21
"1 And I saw a new heaven and a new earth: for the first heaven and the first earth were passed away; and there was no more sea.
2 And I John saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down from God out of heaven, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband.
3 And I heard a great voice out of heaven saying, Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, and he will dwell with them, and they shall be his people, and God himself shall be with them, and be their God.
4 And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away.
5 And he that sat upon the throne said, Behold, I make all things new. And he said unto me, Write: for these words are true and faithful.
6 And he said unto me, It is done. I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end. I will give unto him that is athirst of the fountain of the water of life freely.
7 He that overcometh shall inherit all things; and I will be his God, and he shall be my son.
8 But the fearful, and unbelieving, and the abominable, and murderers, and whoremongers, and sorcerers, and idolaters, and all liars, shall have their part in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone: which is the second death.
9 And there came unto me one of the seven angels which had the seven vials full of the seven last plagues, and talked with me, saying, Come hither, I will shew thee the bride, the Lamb's wife.
10 And he carried me away in the spirit to a great and high mountain, and shewed me that great city, the holy Jerusalem, descending out of heaven from God,
11 Having the glory of God: and her light was like unto a stone most precious, even like a jasper stone, clear as crystal;
12 And had a wall great and high, and had twelve gates, and at the gates twelve angels, and names written thereon, which are the names of the twelve tribes of the children of Israel:
13 On the east three gates; on the north three gates; on the south three gates; and on the west three gates.
14 And the wall of the city had twelve foundations, and in them the names of the twelve apostles of the Lamb.
15 And he that talked with me had a golden reed to measure the city, and the gates thereof, and the wall thereof.
16 And the city lieth foursquare, and the length is as large as the breadth: and he measured the city with the reed, twelve thousand furlongs. The length and the breadth and the height of it are equal.
17 And he measured the wall thereof, an hundred and forty and four cubits, according to the measure of a man, that is, of the angel.
18 And the building of the wall of it was of jasper: and the city was pure gold, like unto clear glass.
19 And the foundations of the wall of the city were garnished with all manner of precious stones. The first foundation was jasper; the second, sapphire; the third, a chalcedony; the fourth, an emerald;
20 The fifth, sardonyx; the sixth, sardius; the seventh, chrysolyte; the eighth, beryl; the ninth, a topaz; the tenth, a chrysoprasus; the eleventh, a jacinth; the twelfth, an amethyst.
21 And the twelve gates were twelve pearls: every several gate was of one pearl: and the street of the city was pure gold, as it were transparent glass.
19 And the foundations of the wall of the city were garnished with all manner of precious stones. The first foundation was jasper; the second, sapphire; the third, a chalcedony; the fourth, an emerald;
20 The fifth, sardonyx; the sixth, sardius; the seventh, chrysolyte; the eighth, beryl; the ninth, a topaz; the tenth, a chrysoprasus; the eleventh, a jacinth; the twelfth, an amethyst.
21 And the twelve gates were twelve pearls: every several gate was of one pearl: and the street of the city was pure gold, as it were transparent glass.
22 And I saw no temple therein: for the Lord God Almighty and the Lamb are the temple of it.
23 And the city had no need of the sun, neither of the moon, to shine in it: for the glory of God did lighten it, and the Lamb is the light thereof.
24 And the nations of them which are saved shall walk in the light of it: and the kings of the earth do bring their glory and honour into it.
25 And the gates of it shall not be shut at all by day: for there shall be no night there.
26 And they shall bring the glory and honour of the nations into it.
27 And there shall in no wise enter into it any thing that defileth, neither whatsoever worketh abomination, or maketh a lie: but they which are written in the Lamb's book of life."
Chaim, least
PRAYING TO GOD IN SECRET - Oswald Chambers (1874 - 1917) My Utmost for His Highest
"When you pray, go into your room, and when you have shut the door, pray to your Father [who art in Heaven] who is in the secret place . . ." Matthew 6:6"
The primary thought in the area of religion is --- keep your eye on God, not on people. Your motivation should not be the desire to be known as a praying person. Find an inner room in which to pray where no one even knows you are praying, shut the door, and talk to God in secret. Have no motivation other than to know your Father in heaven. It is impossible to carry on your life as a disciple without definite times of secret prayer.
"When you pray, do not use vain repetitions . . ." (6:7). God does not hear us because we pray earnestly --- He hears us solely on the basis of redemption. God is never impressed by our earnestness. Prayer is not simply getting things from God --- that is only the most elementary kind of prayer. Prayer is coming into perfect fellowship and oneness with God. If the Son of God has been formed in us through regeneration (see Galatians 4:19), then He will continue to press on beyond our common sense and will change our attitude about the things for which we pray.
"Everyone who asks receives . . ." (Matthew 7:8). We pray religious nonsense without even involving our will, and then we say that God did not answer -- but in reality we have never asked anything. Jesus said ". . . you will ask what you desire . . ." (John 15:7). Asking means that our will must be involved. Whenever Jesus talked about prayer, He spoke with wonderful childlike simplicity. Then we respond with our critical attitude, saying, "Yes, but even Jesus said that we must ask." But remember that we have to ask things of God that are in keeping with the God whom Jesus Christ revealed.
The primary thought in the area of religion is --- keep your eye on God, not on people. Your motivation should not be the desire to be known as a praying person. Find an inner room in which to pray where no one even knows you are praying, shut the door, and talk to God in secret. Have no motivation other than to know your Father in heaven. It is impossible to carry on your life as a disciple without definite times of secret prayer.
"When you pray, do not use vain repetitions . . ." (6:7). God does not hear us because we pray earnestly --- He hears us solely on the basis of redemption. God is never impressed by our earnestness. Prayer is not simply getting things from God --- that is only the most elementary kind of prayer. Prayer is coming into perfect fellowship and oneness with God. If the Son of God has been formed in us through regeneration (see Galatians 4:19), then He will continue to press on beyond our common sense and will change our attitude about the things for which we pray.
"Everyone who asks receives . . ." (Matthew 7:8). We pray religious nonsense without even involving our will, and then we say that God did not answer -- but in reality we have never asked anything. Jesus said ". . . you will ask what you desire . . ." (John 15:7). Asking means that our will must be involved. Whenever Jesus talked about prayer, He spoke with wonderful childlike simplicity. Then we respond with our critical attitude, saying, "Yes, but even Jesus said that we must ask." But remember that we have to ask things of God that are in keeping with the God whom Jesus Christ revealed.
WHY I HAVE LEFT THE CHURCH - By Brenda Alexander
I was raised in a church where the Word of God was preached, it wasn't watered-down to please the masses and it was never compromised. Our church was broadcast every morning on a local channel. It was not a mega-church by any means. The pews were half empty but those who went, went to worship our Creator, our Lord and Savior, Christ Jesus. It was comprised of people who knew what it meant to be a Christian. It wasn't about showing off your new, expensive clothes or a social gathering. It was during the Vietnam War era and one night a week, all the women would come to the church and I'd tag along because I was my grandmother's shadow. If you saw her, you saw me. To this day, whenever I wonder what a TRUE Christian looks like, I see her face. She's gone now for 30 years but she's in my heart, helping me in my walk. I try to model my life after hers. In my church, we served the Lord, not man.
I've been treated very harshly after finally living for Him for not going to church. Oh, I've been to a few and what I found is a false doctrine of salvation, IF it's even preached anymore, a hurried sermon so they can get to their ice cream social or one where it's more entertaining and fun than hard-hitting. I see people falling all over the floor, convulsing, running around churches barking all claiming to be under the power of the Holy Spirit. Benny Hinn, a well-known televangelist, actually killed an elderly woman by knocking her down in one of his church meetings. I hear a bunch of people speaking in "tongues" and a whole lot of confusion. God is not the author of confusion but of peace. Many of these churches are not orderly or reverent. I love the more contemporary Christian music myself but I love the old hymns too. Music should set the tone for worship, not be the worship service. I've been told I must do this or that or I don't have the Holy Spirit. Well, the Word of God says different and that is His word, the final authority, not mans.
I found a pastor that got annoyed when I asked too many questions, another that exalted himself above the mere members, another that after the sermon left so fast so that no one could speak to him. I have no idea where he disappeared to as I never saw him again after that. I never heard what God had to say, only what he said. No make-up, no jewelry, no women wearing pants or shorts ever or allowed to sit on the front pew because women may cause men to "lust" by looking up the dresses. God forbid man be held accountable for his own sins. Oh, and you could not cut your hair! One pastor even said he accidentally put on a pair of his wife's pants once and got so upset for accidentally wearing women's clothing. This is not the type of church I was raised in. I believe in the 10 Commandments. I believe the two greatest laws we have are to love God with all our heart mind and soul and to love others MORE than I love myself. I believe in JOY - Jesus first; Others second; You last and that equals JOY. Is me wearing a pair of jeans hurting another person? Am I trying to appear to be a man? Is my short hair me pretending or confusion about my gender? No, it is impractical for me to have long hair as it is very thick and coarse. I live in the most hot and humid state in America. It causes me agony. Am I hurting God, myself or another person by cutting my hair? No! Nowhere in the Bible does it say that a woman has to have long hair. This verse is so twisted. It's talking about men not having long hair but that if a woman does, it's her glory. Women are allowed to have long hair, men are not. However, I do believe women and men should dress modestly. It's Biblical and a safety issue as well.
I read a letter of apology in a newsletter from a pastor to the church. He said he understood why we left. We left because they no longer taught true salvation; we watered-down the Word of God to bring in more people, wanting their ears tickled, so that they would give their 10% each week for a greedy church that preaches the false "law" of tithing and then turns around and uses it for personal gain, wealth and prosperity but not helping out their members. He went on to tell that too many churches had bowed to the world, allowing gay marriages and couples to be members of God's church. Homosexuals should always be welcomed in church because the Word of God is for the world, not just the saints. That's the Bible's word for us, not mine, lol. The sinners need to hear the truth. Homosexuality is a sin but so is lying. In fact, IF there be any greater sin, it would be a liar. Liars kill, destroy and tear lives apart. Gossip is evil. How many marriages have been ruined by lies? Pastors are found cheating on their wives, in jail for fraud and theft, yet still expect us to listen to them preach God's word.
I am no saint. I love Jesus Christ and He is my life. I worship Him 24/7. If I had to pick a certain day as a worship day, then that would be every single day of the week. I cannot love Him, worship Him or be more Holy on the traditional Saturday Sabbath or the Christian day of worship on Sunday. I just can't. That, to me, is hypocrisy. The true church of Christ is the Body of Christ, the disciples, the ones that live by every word of the Bible to the best of their human ability. Yes, we all sin and fall short of the glory of God (Romans 8:23) but we are forgiven by the blood of Christ Jesus.
We are taught that if we give money to them that God will return our money seven-fold or more. Well, if that's why you give to the church, you'd be just as well off to invest that in the stock market or gold. God loves a cheerful giver. When I get a financial reward, I give back. do not believe that Jesus Christ ever told us to gain wealth. If so, my Bible left off that verse. It may be in a newer, more world-view Bible, written because the KJV is "offensive" to the world. If you don't believe me and you read one of these new Bibles, check to see if Acts 8:37 is in there. See if it says anywhere that says "I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God." Usually verses 37-39 are condensed into one and that is left off because people say that by reciting this verse, they are admitting that Jesus Christ is the Son of God against their will. Get real! So, churches that use these new Bibles are compromising His Word. Sure, new insight is being revealed almost daily into what the Holy Scriptures says but it does not CHANGE. We change but God does not. If lying, cheating, stealing, homosexuality, trans-gender, etc. was a sin when this Book was written, it is a sin today!
I am tired of playing church. I am tired of giving money to a pastor or church that lies to me, compromising God's word, puts their own brand of "holiness" on me and is simply in the business of making money. I am not going to play Christian anymore. I'm either going to follow Him all the days of my life or I'm going to be a part of this world. If I'm blessed to find a church building that preaches the truth, that calls out sin, and teaches the true Gospel, I'll give him 30% of my increase. In fact, I'll give him 50%. My great commission is to spread the Good News of Christ Jesus in truth. That I will do. I will not lie, pretend or tell you what you want to hear to make you feel "better" about yourself. If His word offends you, good. hat's called conviction. You SHOULD feel bad. You MUST overcome your sins. It won't happen overnight as many false preachers tell you or say you don't "trust Jesus" enough. We are justified at salvation, our lives are in the progress of sanctification through growth. e grow, learn, make mistakes and we change gradually. You can come to Christ Jesus a drug addict and He will accept you right then and there, JUST AS YOU ARE! HE and HE alone will deliver you, change you and bring you into His perfect will for your life. It will be His way, His time. We have many lessons to learn, sin to overcome and the biggest one is our own self-righteousness. He must bring us into perfect righteousness by the blood of Jesus Christ, not by our own works or holiness. We cannot be righteous by any other means. It's faith and grace.
So to all you Spiritual leaders, when you come back to Him and His Gospel, we will come back to you. Until then, we will learn without you. God does not forsake us. He will lead us into the truth. We want you but with God, we don't need your lies and false teachings or man-made rules. Come back to the church of Philadelphia and we will come back to you.
God bless all!
"For ye are saved by GRACE through FAITH and not of yourselves. It is a gift of God. Not of works, nor deeds, lest any man should boast." Ephesians 8:28-29
"For all have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God." Romans 3:23
"For the wages of sin is death but the gift of God is everlasting life through Jesus Christ our Lord." Romans 6:23
"For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosever believeth on Him should not perish but have everylasting life." John 3:16
Plan of Salvation: First Corinthians 15:1-4
THE DUMBEST GENERATION - WE ARE UNREADY FOR BATTLE, SPIRITUALLY AND IN REALITY
A sad reality check...
PRE-TRIBULATION RAPTURE - IS IT BIBLICAL?
The Watchman Report - The Rapture Controversy and Why You Should Believe....
DOVES IN THE BIBLE - THE HOLY SPIRIT by: Pat Hackworth
The Bible uses the image of the dove as one of the ways to describe the Holy Spirit. Did you know this about doves? Doves are often referred to as “A Pigeon with a good PR agent”.
Pigeons and Doves belong to the same family, Columbidae, and have many similar features.
Doves have an excellent knack for adapting themselves to almost any environment. The only places they are not found are in places of extreme conditions such as deserts and the Antarctic
Doves mate for life.
The Columbidae species of the both the male and the female produce milk for their young.
Doves have been used as messengers for thousands of years, particularly during war with over 95% accuracy.
The exact way homing pigeons find their way home has long been debated. Regardless of how Pigeons find their way home, their ability to find their way home is nothing short of incredible.
In the late 1800s, the most heroic recorded flight was from a pigeon released in Africa that took 55 days to get home to England. Travelling over a staggering 11,000 kilometres! (6,0000 mi) Pigeons can fly at altitudes of 6000 feet at an average speed of 77.6 miles per hour.
Now….that’ll preach!!!
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