THE TRUTH HAS MADE US FREE - BY ABALONEKID

2 Timothy 3:

16 All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: 17 That the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works.

Make the case! The whole Bible given by inspired Holy men of God who "were moved by the Holy Spirit" to write the very words of Scripture.

Divine inspiration extends to all parts of the writings–historical, poetical, doctrinal, and prophetical–as appearing in the original manuscripts.

The whole Bible in the originals is therefore without error. All the scriptures center about the Lord Jesus Christ in His person and work in His first and second coming, and that no portion, even of the Old Testament, is properly read or understood until it leads to Him.

All the Scriptures were designed for our practical instruction.

Romans 15:34

4 For whatsoever things were written aforetime were written for our learning, that we through patience and comfort of the scriptures might have hope.

2 Peter 1:21

For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost.

Whatever is written anywhere in the sacred Scriptures, were written for our learning; to instruct in the knowledge of Christ, of his person, offices, grace, righteousness, obedience, sufferings, death, resurrection, and ascension. We are uplifted and empowered by the great salvation and redemption he came to obtain, and has obtained, teaching us the doctrines of grace, of pardon through His blood, atonement by his sacrifice, justification by his righteousness, acceptance in his person, and eternal life through him and also to inform us of our duty, and how we ought to behave both towards God and men.

We, through patience and comfort of the Scriptures, have hope! The Scriptures are not only written for our present instruction, but for the encouraging, and establishing, an hope of eternal Life in another world; which they are the means of, under the influence of divine grace; since they give us a clear account of eternal life; of the promise of it in Christ; of its being procured by him, and secured in him; of the means of enjoying it, through his blood and righteousness; of the declarations of God's free grace and mercy to we sinners, and of the various instances of persons who have been made partakers of it; all which encourage to hope in the Lord, and to rejoice in hope of the glory of God.

We believe we also may have and enjoy the thing hoped for, "through patience and comfort of the Scriptures" not to be met with elsewhere. These writings abound with exceeding great and precious promises, and excellent doctrines, to cherish, support, and maintain a hope of eternal happiness; all which prove the divine authority, excellency, and usefulness of the sacred writings, and recommend to us the reading of them, sharing, and hearing of them explained by others blessed to do so in Christ.

Chaim, least

Credits:

http://www.knowing-jesus.com/doctrinal-statement

John Gill's Exposition of the Bible
https://www.biblestudytools.com/commentaries/gills-exposition-of-the-bible/

He preached in the same church as C. H. Spurgeon over one hundred years earlier.

WE, HIS CHURCH, LOVE ISRAEL: GOD FORBID WE DO NOT!

Does God still have a plan for Israel?"

This topic is one of the more controversial in the "VISIBLE" Church today, and it has significant implications regarding the way we interpret Scripture, especially concerning the end times. More importantly, it has great significance in that it affects the way we understand the very nature and character of God Himself AND OUR serving in the faith (w/o the sin of denial of Israel causing broken fellowship with God! ) ministries God has ordained for each of us!  

Get Israel right and be blessed in our time here to serve God in the fullness of the Holy Spirit .

***A MUST READ: ALL OF ROMANS CHAP 11

Romans 11:16-36 records the illustration of the olive tree. This passage speaks of Israel the (“natural” branches) being broken off from the olive tree, and the Church (“wild” branches or shoots) being grafted into the olive tree. Since Israel is referred to as branches, as well as the Church, it stands to reason that neither group is the “whole tree,” so to speak; rather, the whole tree represents God’s workings with mankind as a whole. Therefore, God’s program with Israel and God’s program with the Church are part of the outworking of His purpose among men in general. 

In Genesis 12, God promised Abraham that he would be the father of a great nation (the Jews), the Jews would possess a land, that nation would be blessed above all other nations, and all other nations would be blessed from Israel. So, from the beginning God revealed that Israel would be His chosen people on the earth, but that His blessing would not be limited to them exclusively. Galatians 3:14 identifies the nature of the blessing to come to all the other nations: “That the blessing of Abraham might come on the Gentiles through Jesus Christ; that we might receive the promise of the Spirit through faith.” All the nations of the world were blessed by Israel, through whom the Savior of the world came.

A PROMISE GOD KEEPS

Genesis 12:
Now the Lord had said unto Abram, Get thee out of thy country, and from thy kindred, and from thy father’s house, unto a land that I will shew thee: 2 and I will make of thee a great nation, and I will bless thee, and make thy name great; and thou shalt be a blessing: 3 and I will bless them that bless thee, and curse him that curseth thee: and in thee shall all families of the earth be blessed.

God’s plan of redemption is built upon the finished work of Jesus Christ, a descendant of David and Abraham. But Christ’s death on the cross is sufficient for the sins of the entire world, not just the Jews! Galatians 3:6-8 states, “Consider Abraham: ‘He believed God, and it was credited to him as righteousness.’ Understand, then, that those who believe are children of Abraham. The Scripture foresaw that God would justify the Gentiles by faith, and announced the gospel in advance to Abraham: ‘All nations will be blessed through you.’”

Finally,Galatians 3:29 says, “If you belong to Christ, then you are Abraham's seed, and heirs according to the promise.” In other words, in Christ, believers are counted righteous by faith in the same way that Abraham was (Galatians 3:6-8). If we are in Christ, then we are partakers of the blessing of Israel and all nations in the redemptive work of Christ. Believers become the spiritual descendants of Abraham. Believers do not become physical Jews, but they may enjoy the same type of blessings and privileges as the Jews.

***BELOVEDS: READ ROMANS CHAP 11

Now, this does not contradict or nullify the revelation given in the Old Testament. God’s promises in the Old Testament are still valid, and God’s relationship with Israel as a chosen people points to the work of Christ as a Redeemer of the whole world. The Mosaic Law is still mandatory for all Jews who have not yet accepted Christ as their Messiah. Jesus did what they could not do—fulfill the Law in all its details (Matthew 5:17). As New Testament believers, we are no longer under the curse of the Law (Galatians 3:13), because Christ has taken that curse upon Himself on the cross. The Law served two purposes: to reveal sin and mankind’s inability (on his own merit) to do anything about it, and to point us to Christ, who fulfills the Law. His death on the cross completely satisfies God’s righteous requirement of perfection.

Paul Explains God's Promises

God’s unconditional promises are not invalidated by the unfaithfulness of man. Nothing we do is ever a surprise to God, and He does not need to adjust His plans according to the way we behave. No, God is sovereign over all things—past, present and future—and what He has foreordained for both Israel and the Church will come to pass, regardless of circumstances. Romans 3:3-4 explains that Israel’s unbelief would not nullify His promises concerning them:

 “What if some did not have faith? Will their lack of faith nullify God's faithfulness? Not at all! Let God be true, and every man a liar. As it is written: ‘So that you may be proved right when you speak and prevail when you judge.’"

GOD KEEPS HIS WORD: DON'T BE CRIPPLED BY A SATANIC LIE

Paul anticipated a question that would surely arise among his Gentile readers: “I say then, have they stumbled that they should fall?” (Romans 11:1)—Gentile believers would be tempted to dismiss Israel because it appeared they would never recover. Even today, there are those who advocate  replacement theology, which holds that the Church has completely replaced Israel and will inherit the promises to be fulfilled only in a spiritual sense. In other words, according to this view, ethnic Israel is forever excluded from the promises—the Jews will not literally inherit the Promised Land. What then would happen to Israel? What about the Old Testament prophecies that Israel as a nation would repent and be re-gathered to the land in the last days as a permanent possession (Deuteronomy 30:1–10)?

READ ROMANS CHAP 11...

Romans 11 thus conclusively shows Gentile believers that God is not yet “done” with Israel, who has only temporarily lost the privilege of representing God as His people. Since “the gifts and calling of God are irrevocable” (11:29), “all Israel will be saved” in order to fulfill God’s covenant with ethnic Israel (11:25–28), including the promise of land inheritance (Deuteronomy 30:1–10).

While the “natural branches” were cut off because Israel failed, God’s purposes are not complete until Israel is also grafted back into the people of God to share in the promises to Abraham and his seed. This brings full circle God’s larger redemptive plan (Romans 11:30–36) for both Jews and Gentiles as distinct populations within the people of God in the Davidic (or Millennial) Kingdom. Indeed, the prophets saw this Kingdom as the “final form” of the olive tree, so that Israel—reversing roles—would then bless the Gentiles, enabling them to join the people of God (see Zechariah 8:13, 20–23).

Promises made to Israel are still going to be kept in the future. We can be sure that all God has said is true and will take place, because of His character and consistency. The Church does not replace Israel and should not expect a symbolic fulfillment of the promises of the Old Covenant. As one reads Scripture, it is necessary to keep Israel and the Church separate.

Chaim, least

"MARANTHA" BY ABALONEKID

 Is an Aramaic word that means “the Lord is coming” or “come, O Lord.” The early church faced much persecution, and life for a Christian under Roman rule was not easy. The Romans required everyone to declare that Caesar was god. The early Christians knew that there is only one God and one Lord—Jesus Christ—and in all good conscience they could not call Caesar “Lord,” so the Romans looked upon them as traitors, persecuted them, and put them to death.

Living under those adverse conditions, the believers’ morale was lifted by the hope of the coming of the Lord. “Maranatha!” became the common greeting of the oppressed believers, replacing the Jewish greeting shalom (“peace”). The followers of Jesus knew there would be no peace because Jesus had told them so (Matthew 10:34; Luke 12:51). But they also knew the Lord would be returning to set up His kingdom, and from that truth they drew great comfort. They were constantly reminding and being reminded that the Lord is coming (Luke 21:28; Revelation 22:12). Jesus taught several parables on this same theme of watching and waiting and being prepared for His return (Matthew 25:1-13; Luke 12:35-40).

Today, believers in our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ live our lives in the light of the knowledge that He can come at any time. We are to be ready when the call comes. Every day we should expect Him to come, and every day we should long for Him to come. Maranatha reminds us to keep our eyes on the eternal things of the Spirit. To dwell on material things is to be in constant mental turmoil. Looking down, we see the earth; looking around, we see earthly things. But looking up, we see the hope of the soon coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. To those who are discouraged today, Maranatha! To those who are worried today, Maranatha! To those who are filled with anxiety over the problems they are facing, Maranatha! Our Lord is coming!

Chaim, least

PHOTO: Aliaksei Sherakov (google+ )
TEXT: Abalone Kid

WORDS OF KINDNESS

Hello, I hope the past month has been better for you than for me.  I had nothing but issues with my computer and internet.  They are doing work and it's been a nightmare.  That's why I haven't posted or got on my groups.  

I found this book at a flea market for 50 cents and it's awesome.  It's called "God's Treasury of virtues.  I'm going to share these with you as often as possible.  It's a beautiful book.  God bless and have a safe and happy (always BLESSED) week.

+ + + + + + + 

WORDS OF KINDNESS

     Kind words bring no blisters on the tongue that speaks them,  nor on the ear which hears them.

     Kind words are never wasted.  Like scattered seeds, they spring up in unexpected places.

     Kindness is a conquering weapon,

     Kindness should not be all on one side.

     One good turn must have another as its return, or it will not be fair.  He who expects kindness should show kindness.

                                                                   C. H. Spurgeon

WHICH IS IT, FRANCIS?

UPDATE:  He said he was misquoted but he didn't deny he said it.  He just said there were no "quotation" marks around it.  So, we may never know but most think he did.  He says a lot of stupid things.

This is a link to an article where Pope Francis admits there is no hell.  Many news media is sharing this and knowing this particular pope, I don't doubt it.  So, I have a question for Francis.  If there's no hell for the unsaved, or purgatory, why do you pray for the dead, sell or sold "indulgences" to believers to "buy" loved ones out of hell?  Is the catholic church the liar, you, or perhaps both?  That's a dangerous thing to tell people unless you know for sure there's no hell or maybe even know for sure there is.  Something strange is going on at the Vatican.  What is it?

FRANCIS SAYS THERE'S NO HELL?

I cannot tell you what hell is like.  I've never been there and pray I never do.  It would be nice to think my unsaved loved ones aren't living in condemnation, fully aware, for eternity but if you take hell out of the Gospel, most people will say, I can live with that because that's what I believed all along.  My son even said if I could prove without a doubt that Heaven is for real, would he get saved.  He said NO.  Why?  He doesn't believe in hell or satan.  He says he doesn't believe in God but yet he hates him and calls him names, blames him, etc.  How can you hate something or someone who doesn't exist?

First Corinthians 15:1-11

John 3:16-18

Acts 8:37 (KJV only)

Ephesians 2:8-9

THE DEATH/BURIAL/RESURRECTION = SALVATION

WARNING!

I'm not sure if you're aware but there's a lot of information on the internet that our beloved Apostle Paul is a false prophet.  Let me assure you that this is not the case.  For one, the Bible is inerrant and infallible.  If Paul is a false prophet, then we can no longer say that.  The Bible says ALL scripture is sufficient...(sorry, I don't know the rest of the verse) and that's stated by Peter.  In fact, while at first the original Apostles were afraid of Paul because of his persecution of the church, eventually they accepted him.  Peter even warns us that many will twist and mistranslate what Paul says.

Second, it comes from Islamics, Hebrew Roots and the Kabbalah, which is a form of the occult and sorcery in Judaism.  So consider the source and notice that it's only now this is coming to light.  No one ever thought Paul was a false prophet for 2,000 years.  I'm quite sure that the early Church fathers, who were meticulous while translating the Canon, would have not included Paul's writings if they had one shred of doubt.  Those making this claim usually refer to gnostic gospels written 100s of years after the time of Jesus.  

If we take out Paul, we are back under the Levitical laws, animal sacrifice and Jesus Christ never had to die for our sins.  Paul even addresses this issue.  Jesus Christ chose Paul after He rose into Heaven because to preach the Cross before that would not have been understood.  It was a Mystery of God, hidden since the foundation of the world.  While there may seem to be a difference in what Jesus Christ taught and what Paul taught, such as Christ taught the Kingdom was at hand and Paul preached salvation by the Cross but search out the scripture.  He upholds Christ Jesus and was eventually martyred for His beliefs.  Would he have willingly died if he was lying?  I doubt it.  So, without Paul, our salvation and our Bible falls.  Read Paul's books carefully and he had all the makings according to God's Word of a true Apostle.  He could heal, prophecy, speak in tongues, cast out demons and he is the only Apostle who was bitten by a very poisonous snake where he should have died within minutes but was not hurt.  The scripture upholds that.  There is no record of any apostle drinking poison but maybe that's because they didn't know it was poisoned.  There are things we just don't know.  

I just wanted to warn any newbies who may be concerned about this lie that turns our Bible into a lie.  Beware of seeking God on the internet.  There are some excellent sites and resources but except for very few online pastors like J. Vernon McGee, John MacAuthur and a few others (Wretched is a great resource), don't pay attention to random YouTubers that no one has heard of and if you come across one that sounds wrong, do a research on them and most of the time you'll find they are atheists or in the group above.  We have a choice, trust in God's complete perfect word and have salvation in Christ Jesus or follow 613 laws that no man ever lived perfectly except one and that is the man Jesus Christ.  God bless and be careful.

POPE DENIES HELL EXISTS - VATICAN ROOF COLLAPSES

I believe hell is real but I pray I never find out what it's like.  Jesus spoke more about hell than He did Heaven.  John 3:16 says, "For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son that WHOSOEVER believeth in His Name should NOT PERISH but have everlasting life."  I also know some denominations don't believe in an everlasting conscious torment and honestly, I hope there isn't as I don't want anyone to suffer without end.   That's cruel and why we should take our Great Commission seriously.  However, I'm not surprised by anything this pope says or does.  I love catholics but have a big issue with the Vatican.  I don't trust or agree with the pope.  I feel nuns are nothing more than free slave labor for them and I've heard stories about Mother Theresa that if they're true, I've lost all respect for her.  Supposedly she got 3 billion dollars to build a hospital but she gave the money to the vatican instead.  Not only did the conditions stay horrific, they got far worse.  I cannot verify that but the source was credible.  Pope Francis wants a One World Religion and a NWO.  He bows down to Islam and compromises the Word of God.  Yet, women aren't allowed to use birth control.  It is not reasonable for parents to have 10 to 12 kids.  It was at one point but not today.  I am so anti-abortion but I do support birth control methods.  If they feel, to me that's like God saying "this is meant to be."  So, here's what happened after the pope made this statement.  He also upholds homosexuality and other unGodly things but what do you expect by a man who literally thinks he is Jesus Christ on earth?  Ye reap what ye sow.  God bless.

ISN'T THE "TRINITY" A CONTRADICTION (VIDEO BY RAVI ZACHARIAS)

I have an admission to make.  I prefer using the word "Godhead" rather than the Trinity.  While I cannot explain it to people, deep in my heart I feel I grasp the concept but I may not fully understand this side of Heaven.  Is it 3 separate people, 3 different ways God appears and interacts with man, or 3 different aspects of His person?  I look at Jesus's baptism where we clearly see three different manifestations of the ONE God.  We have Jesus being baptized (the Son); a voice from Heaven that says "this is my Son in Whom I Am well pleased" (the Father); and the Holy Spirit descending on Jesus like a dove.  We Christians are so misunderstood and it's frustrating because if those who question us would earnestly seek the truth in the Word of God, they'll get their answer without further making Christians even more persecuted.  There's many things I don't know the answer to.  I thank God I don't have to.  

Also, beware of those spreading that the Apostle Paul is the first false prophet.  There's a new one who is just strange and claims he can "time travel" and that the Jesus in Revelation is not the real Jesus.  He also claims that the Apostle Paul is a false prophet.  His name is Jeff Daughtry.  This is not new.  It comes from Islam, the Hebrew Roots Movement and apparently the Kabbalah.  So always consider the source.  If we remove Paul from the Bible, we have no salvation.  The other Apostles were ministers to the Jews.  I suggest watching a video by Pastor Robert Breaker entitled "Jesus vs. Paul."  Yes, Jesus taught the Kingdom of God and Paul taught the Cross and crucifixion.  Jesus is always first but He couldn't preach the Cross and resurrection when it had not happened.  The few times He did, no one understood.  He came for the Jews first and had they accepted Him, then they would have brought the gentiles into salvation but they rejected Him.  God foreknew this and knew Jesus had to be crucified to fulfill prophecy.  Be careful what you listen to and believe.  So here are two videos I recommend.  I like Robert Breaker but you may not.  I am not endorsing nor condemning him.  I like to hear his theories and he's clear on what is Biblical truth and his thoughts.  Some are a little "out there" until you think about them but it's his POV and we all have them.  I just feel called to point out false prophets, wolves and, well, wackos.  Jeff Daughtry is a wee bit really wacky.  God bless.

Ravi Zacharias on the Trinity or Godhead Contradiction

Robert Breaker@Cloud Church - Jesus vs. Paul

Don't let the title throw you off...Jesus is always first!

God Bless and Share the Good News of Salvation

First Corinthians 15:1-11

The death/burial/resurrection of Jesus Christ

His finished work on the Cross and His shed blood is the only thing that saves!

HEBREW WORD OF THE DAY

ARMY....

Don't want to come across this...

ARMY ANTS!

One of the most famous pictures of the U.S. Army

And now, the Israeli Army, amazing men and women...remember the "6 Day War"

Shalom!

ANONYMOUS KINDNESS: BY "OUR DAILY BREAD" FOR MONDAY, 4/2/18

Read: Matthew 6:1–4
Bible in a Year: Judges 16–18; Luke 7:1–30

When you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing.—Matthew 6:3

When I first graduated from college, I found myself needing to adopt a strict grocery budget—twenty-five dollars a week, to be exact. One day, while entering the checkout line, I suspected the groceries I’d selected cost slightly more than my remaining money. “Just stop when we reach twenty dollars,” I told the cashier, and I was able to purchase everything I’d selected but a bag of peppers.

As I was about to drive home, a man stopped by my car. “Here’s your peppers, ma’am,” he said, handing the bag to me. Before I had time to thank him, he was already walking away.

Remembering the simple goodness of this act of kindness still warms my heart and brings to mind Jesus’s words in Matthew 6. Criticizing those who made a show of giving to the needy (v. 2), Jesus taught His disciples a different way. Instead of making giving all about them and their generosity, He urged that giving should be done so secretly it’s like their left hand isn’t even aware their right is giving (v. 3)!

As one person’s anonymous kindness reminded me, giving should never be about us. We give only because of what our generous God has so lavishly given us (2 Corinthians 9:6-11). As we give quietly and generously, we reflect who He is—and God receives the thanksgiving only He deserves (v. 11). —Monica Brands

Have you ever been the recipient of anonymous kindness? Share your story at Facebook.com/ourdailybread.

Giving quietly and generously reflects God’s generosity.

INSIGHT: Today’s article describes acts of giving motivated by humility and kindness. There is no greater example of kindness and generosity than our God. Paul wrote that God’s kindness was at the heart of our rescue: “But when the kindness and love of God our Savior appeared, he saved us” (Titus 3:4-5). Peter challenged to spiritual growth those who had “tasted the kindness of the Lord” (1 Peter 2:3 NASB). And Paul wrote to the Romans: “Or do you think lightly of the riches of His kindness and tolerance and patience, not knowing that the kindness of God leads you to repentance?” (Romans 2:4 NASB). Paul made it clear that God’s kindness is behind the call to repent—to change our minds about our sin and our need of God’s forgiveness. When we are generous to others, we model the generosity and kindness our loving God has shown to us. Bill Crowder

HEBREW WORD OF THE DAY - SUNDAY

I'm so sorry that I haven't been sharing Hebrew Words for a while but honestly, somehow I got unsubscribed by accident and since I took so much time off, I didn't notice.  So, I resubscribed and will once again be sharing Hebrew words except on the Jewish Sabbath.  I hope you enjoy learning and also enjoy it when I try to have fun with them.  Laughter is a wonderful gift from God.  So, Sunday's word is....


DRIVER....

He sure looks happy and relaxed but I don't think I'd be none too happy and definitely not relaxed if this was MY driver....

I think I would prefer this type of driver for all my car trips!  I chose a cartoon "person" because I don't like sharing people's photos online unless I have their express permission!

God bless and Shalom!

DESPISED FOR ALL OF THIS - DEVOTIONAL BY OUR DAILY BREAD

Read: Isaiah 53:3–12
Bible in a Year: Judges 13–15; Luke 6:27–49

He bore the sin of many, and made intercession for the transgressors.—Isaiah 53:12

Susannah Cibber gained fame in the eighteenth century for her talent as a singer. However, she was equally well known for her scandalous marital problems. That’s why when Handel’s Messiah was first performed in Dublin in April 1742, many in the audience did not approve of her role as a featured soloist.

During that inaugural performance, Cibber sang of the Messiah: “He is despised and rejected of men; a man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief” (Isaiah 53:3 kjv). Those words so moved Rev. Patrick Delany that he jumped to his feet and said, “Woman, for this be all thy sins forgiven thee!”

The connection between Susannah Cibber and the theme of Handel’s Messiah is evident. The “man of sorrows”—Jesus the Messiah—was “despised and rejected” because of sin. The prophet Isaiah said, “My righteous servant will justify many, and he will bear their iniquities” (v. 11).

The connection between Messiah and us is no less apparent. Whether we stand with the judgmental audience members, with Susannah Cibber, or somewhere in between, we all need to repent and receive God’s forgiveness. Jesus, by His life, death, and resurrection, restored our relationship with God our Father.

For this—for all Jesus did—be all our sins forgiven. —Tim Gustafson

Father in heaven, we all stand in need of Your forgiveness. We stand too in awe of Your Son Jesus, who was despised and rejected for our sins. Thank You for coming to us in Jesus 2,000 years ago so that we might know You now.

Alleluia: for the Lord God omnipotent reigneth. Revelation 19:6 kjv

GOOD WORKS AND BEING A GOOD PERSON DOESN'T GET YOU IN, ONLY BELIEF IN JESUS CHRIST!

First Corinthians 15:1-11

Good works are fruits of salvation but you are not saved by works or being good.  The only way in is through Christ Jesus.  It's that easy...and that hard!

"I am the way, the truth and the life.  No man cometh unto the Father except through me."

Today is the day of salvation!

DON'T JUST PREACH IT --- DO IT!

       All of my grandparents lived out their faith on the Plains.  My maternal grandparents, the Reverend John Luther Norris and his wife, Beatrice, served twelve Methodist churches in South Dakota and several more in Iowa.  Prarie people have long memories, and they still tell stories about my grandfather's kindness.  One man recalls that after his wife died, leaving him with several small children, he began drinking heavily.  My grandfather came to his house one day to do the family's laundry, and though the man was drinking the whole time, my grandfather never preached about it; he just kept talking to him about his plans for the future, and, as he put it, "helped me straighten up my life."

       --- Kathleen Norris --

I think this song by Dallas Holm goes well with this post...Live What You Say!  Be a good ambassador to Christ Jesus, people are watching to see if YOU live your faith.  God bless and Have a blessed and happy Easter!

A COVETOUS HEART IS AN IMPURE HEART BY THOMAS WATSON

The earth is the most impure element. The purity of the heart lies in the spirituality of it, and what is more opposite to spiritualness than earthiness? Covetousness is 'the root of all evil' (1 Timothy 6:10). 'To what cost do you drive mortal hearts—you accursed lust for gold!'

[1] Covetousness is the root of discontent. Why do any repine at their condition—but because they think they do not have enough? The Greek word for covetousness signifies an immoderate desire of getting. Because the covetous man is never satisfied, his heart frets in discontent and impatience.

[2] Covetousness is the root of theft. Achan's covetous heart made him steal that wedge of gold—which served to cleave asunder his soul from God (Joshua 7:21).
[3] Covetousness is the root of treason. It made Judas betray Christ. 'How much will you pay me to betray Jesus to you?' (Matthew 26:15). Absalom's covetousness made him attempt to pluck the crown from his father's head. He who is a Demas, will soon prove a Judas. 'Men shall be covetous' (2 Timothy 3:2), and it follows in the next verse, 'traitors'. Where covetousness is in the preface, treason will be in the conclusion.

[4] Covetousness is the root of murder. Why did Ahab stone Naboth to death but to possess his vineyard? (1 Kings 21:13). Covetousness has made many swim to the crown in blood. And can the heart be pure, when the 'hands are full of blood'? (Isaiah 1:15).

[5] Covetousness is the root of perjury. 'Men shall be covetous, and it follows, 'trucebreakers' (2 Timothy 3:2, 3). For love of money will take a false oath and break a just oath. He who lives a Midas, will die a perjurer.

[6] Covetousness is the root of necromancy. Why do people indent with the devil—but for money? They study the black art—for yellow gold. Alexander the Sixth pawned his soul to the devil for a popedom.

[7] Covetousness is the root of fraud and theft. Such as would be over-rich, will overreach. It is the covetous hand which holds false weights (Amos 8:5).

[8] Covetousness is the root of bribery and injustice. It makes the courts of law, 'great places of robbery', as Augustine speaks. At Athens, court cases were bought and sold for money.

[9] Covetousness is the cause of uncleanness. The Scripture mentions 'the hire of a whore' (Deuteronomy 23:18). For money both conscience and chastity are sold.
[
10] Covetousness is the root of idolatry: 'Covetousness which is idolatry' (Colossians 3:5). The covetous person bows down to the image of gold. His money is his god, for he puts his trust in it. Money is his creator. When he has abundance of wealth, then he thinks he is made. Money is his redeemer. If he is in any strait or trouble, he flies to his money and that must redeem him. Money is his comforter. When he is sad he counts over his money and with this golden harp he drives away the evil spirit. When you see a covetous man, you may say, "There goes an idolater!"
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11] Covetousness is the cause of unprofitableness under the means of grace. In the parable, the thorns choked the seed (Matthew 13:7). This is the reason the Word preached does no more good. The seed often falls among thorns. Thousands of sermons lie buried in earthly hearts!

[12] Covetousness is the root of selfishness and stinginess. It hinders hospitality. A covetous man has a withered hand. He cannot reach it out to clothe or feed those who are in need. The covetous person is so sordid, that if his estate may flourish he is content to let his name lie dead and buried. What a cursed sin is avarice! And can he be pure in heart—who has such a 'root of bitterness' growing in him? We may as well say that the body is pure which is full of plague-sores.

INSTRUMENTAL (PIANO) EASTER TRADITIONAL HYMNS WITH LYRICS

Very relaxing and beautiful.  What a glorious way to observe the day our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, was resurrected.  I call it Victory Day because He defeated death, hell and the grave.  Plus, He destroyed satan.  I am also including a song by Dallas Holm called "I'll Rise Again."  Enjoy your day whether you celebrate Easter or not.  I do challenge you though to reflect on what He did for you personally on the cross and what His resurrection means to you now.  It is the power of the Gospel to Salvation.  Now go and spread it to the outermost parts of the world!  God bless and you can find it in First Corinthians 15:1-11, special emphasis on 1-4.  It is they Mystery of God hidden from the foundation of the world.

"I'll Rise Again" by Dallas Holm

Much love in Christ Jesus and love Him and others in return.

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The law and the prophets hang on these 2 commandments...

Love God with your whole heart, strength, soul and mind.  And the second is like the first (meaning almost identical) to love thy neighbor as thyself.

STEWARDS OF THE MYSTERIES BY GRACE AMBASSADORS

By Justin Johnson

“Let a man so account of us, as of the ministers of Christ, and stewards of the mysteries of God.” – 1 Cor 4:1

The mysteries are God’s. They are not ours. When we trusted the gospel we became the earthly members of Christ’s body. We serve him, minister for him, do all things to him (Rom 6:18, Col 3:23).

It is our duty to be faithful stewards on this planet while God is offering salvation to all men on terms of grace and peace.

We are equipped for this task through the revealed word of God preserved for us for two thousand years. Studying the word of truth rightly divided allows us to grow in our understanding. It is easy to learn.

We are not left to wonder about the content of these mysteries of God. They have been revealed in scripture. If they remained a secret then what benefit would they be? How could we be stewards of them? Rather, they were made known for our spiritual understanding.

“That their hearts might be comforted, being knit together in love, and unto all riches of the full assurance of understanding, to the acknowledgement of the mystery of God, and of the Father, and of Christ;” – Col 2:2

It is this one task that should be the primary focus of the church in this dispensation. We should know the mysteries of God, minister the mysteries of God, and preach and teach the mysteries of God. Instead, the church has abandoned these essential doctrines for the sake of popularity, religiosity, and worldly compromise.

The Lord has provided our salvation, equipped us with his manifold wisdom, and the only thing that is needed from us is faithfulness to do his stated will.

Do you know the mysteries of God? If not, you can easily learn. The harder question is, do you have what it takes? Can you remain faithful if it costs you your friends, your traditions, your life? This is what your Lord requires.

“Moreover it is required in stewards, that a man be found faithful.” – 1 Corinthians 4:2

Related Posts 

 -Paul’s Stewardship of the Mysteries 

-What Is the Mystery Revealed to Paul? 
-Faithful Stewards 
-Celebrities and Mailmen 
-A Mystery in the Bible 
-The Mysteries of the Kingdom 
-Three Functions of a Church 

WHY JESUS NEEDED TO RESURRECT BY GRACE AMBASSADORS

By Justin Johnson

The resurrection of Jesus is the monumental event of human history. Yet, why he needed to resurrect was not fully revealed until the Apostle Paul.

During his life on earth no one knew he would resurrect, not even his closest disciples.

“For as yet they knew not the scripture, that he must rise again from the dead.” – John 20:9

The crucifixion was seen initially as the deathblow to the kingdom gospel preached during Matthew-John, but the resurrection gave the kingdom gospel new life (1 Pet 1:3). Since he was risen from the dead it was certain that he could return to establish the kingdom that he preached to Israel (Mark 1:15, Acts 3:19-20).

Renewed Hope For the Kingdom Gospel

This renewed hope is evident by the questions the disciples asked the Lord after his resurrection:

“…they asked of him, saying, Lord, wilt thou at this time restore again the kingdom to Israel?” – Acts 1:6

At Pentecost the Twelve apostles resumed preaching the good news of the kingdom gospel even after the Messiah was crucified, because he was alive and ascended up into heaven!

The twelve were witnesses of the resurrection proof that the kingdom gospel could still be fulfilled and Jesus was the Son of God all along.

“This Jesus hath God raised up, whereof we all are witnesses.” – Acts 2:32

“And killed the Prince of life, whom God hath raised from the dead; whereof we are witnesses.” – Acts 3:15

“And with great power gave the apostles witness of the resurrection of the Lord Jesus: and great grace was upon them all.” – Acts 4:33

Paul and the Resurrection

Later, Saul (Paul) would witness the resurrected Son of God on his way to persecute those who taught it. This experience quickly changed his beliefs as Jesus told him he was especially chosen to preach to the Gentiles (Acts 22:21, Rom 11:13).

Jesus taught Paul the meaning of the death, burial, and resurrection for the Gentiles, and for the first time we could understand the meaning behind why the death and resurrection was necessary for all men (Gal 1:11-12).

Without his death we could not reckon our old man dead and be delivered from the law for righteousness (Rom 3:21-22, 6:11). His blood paid for the sins of all, and his resurrection established our justification and new life in Christ (Rom 4:24-25).

Peter, Paul, and the Resurrection

It is not a surprise that both Peter and Paul taught the resurrection of Jesus Christ as necessary for both of their gospel messages. Peter for the fulfilled kingdom promises to Israel, and Paul for complete salvation.

“Therefore whether it were I or they, so we preach, and so ye believed. ” – 1 Cor 15:11

Ever after that pivotal event it was necessary that everyone believe that Jesus resurrected from the dead. The reasons “why” were first made known by God’s chosen vessel (Acts 9:15).

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"And I'll cling to the old Rugged Cross and Exhange it some day for a crown!"

"Christ the Lord is Risen Today, Hallalujah!"