tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-276401092024-03-13T20:39:57.956-07:00hopefully OnesimusPREFACE -
Rather than give a description of the blog I would ask if you have read your Bible today. If not, then please stop and do not read this blog. Please go pick up your Bible (go on line or wherever you read your Bible) and read your Bible. Your time with God and His Word is much more important and productive then reading this blog.Unknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger45125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27640109.post-75806859475305943542012-02-26T07:51:00.001-08:002012-02-26T07:51:31.917-08:00<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKHcxcsXc2lf1ZsOaeB7YSsmGmKlE9-E_4p31YCNNITQuASY64oplHpPjXGvxijmJXNLSaMzfuNNNPwZL-E2yg4s_M2Tskhta9_K8qnMqcAqKAm_ZT03bD_tNfx81jL2gUGZ6i/s1600/under_construction1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKHcxcsXc2lf1ZsOaeB7YSsmGmKlE9-E_4p31YCNNITQuASY64oplHpPjXGvxijmJXNLSaMzfuNNNPwZL-E2yg4s_M2Tskhta9_K8qnMqcAqKAm_ZT03bD_tNfx81jL2gUGZ6i/s320/under_construction1.jpg" width="320" style="border: none;" /></a></div>
<div text align="center">Please pardon my mess hopefully Onesimus is moving to here;
<br />
<a href="http://hopefullyonesimus.wordpress.com/">hopefully Onesimus</a>
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">
image source;
<a href="http://www.bcconstruction.com.au/">construction worker</a>
</span>
</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27640109.post-87811172842201386722012-01-29T07:26:00.000-08:002012-01-29T07:26:43.485-08:00<div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSphS7YwdfSyuNPHalJjRyoa9aUeeq2nXBOiu8i-efMZ-QnvhdpJCUAKVBdIoR9beXxjX_ESMGTQ-gnEShSUQ1zKRLPCMfwLha2R0dV_SIA1OtMgrfdN4Gyr5Y2hF9dB8c3G-r/s1600/sword2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="226" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSphS7YwdfSyuNPHalJjRyoa9aUeeq2nXBOiu8i-efMZ-QnvhdpJCUAKVBdIoR9beXxjX_ESMGTQ-gnEShSUQ1zKRLPCMfwLha2R0dV_SIA1OtMgrfdN4Gyr5Y2hF9dB8c3G-r/s320/sword2.jpg" style="-webkit-box-shadow: 4px 4px 2px #888888; border-radius: 14px 3px; border: outset 3px #333333; box-shadow: 4px 4px 2px #888888; padding: 10px;" width="320" /></a></div>
<b>Pt 13 </b><b>KNOWING AND USING GOD'S WORD/YOUR BIBLE</b>
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #446666; font-style: italic;">"Ave Christus, morituri te salutamus!"</span>
</div>
<br />
<span style="font-family: lucida handwriting,sans-serif; font-size: large; font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">T</span> here are three obvious differences between the temptation of Eve and the temptation of Christ;
<ol><span style="font-weight: bold;">
<li>time and place,<span style="font-family: tempus sans itc,sans-serif; font-weight: bold;">(Genesis 2:15, 3: 1-3, Matthew 4:1, 2)</span></li>
<li>who Eve was and who Jesus is,<span style="font-family: tempus sans itc,sans-serif; font-weight: bold;">(Genesis 1:27, 2:22, Matthew 3:16, 17)</span></li>
<li>and Eve did not resist the temptation while Christ victoriously overcame it.<span style="font-family: tempus sans itc,sans-serif; font-weight: bold;">(Genesis 3:6, Matthew 4:10, 11)</span></li>
</span></ol>
<span style="font-family: lucida handwriting,sans-serif; font-size: large; font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">T</span><b> ime and place;</b>
<br />
obviously Eve was in the Garden of Eden and her temptation occurred shortly after the Creation Week (first seven days) roughly 4000 years before Christ. While Jesus was in Israel during the Roman occupation. Additionally, Eve was in the garden and her temptation came before any sin, death, pain, suffering or the curse had entered it while Christ was in the world well after sin and all it's consequences had entered into it.
<br />
<span style="font-family: lucida handwriting,sans-serif; font-size: large; font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">W</span> <b>ho Eve was and who Jesus is;</b>
<br />
Eve was simply the first woman created by God. Christ is God, the Alpha and Omega. Eve was a created being while Christ was with God in the very beginning - He is not a created being.
<div style="-webkit-box-shadow: 4px 4px 2px #888888; border-radius: 14px 3px; border: solid 1px #000000; box-shadow: 4px 4px 2px #888888; font-family: tempus sans itc, sans-serif; font-weight: bold; padding: 5px 3px 5px 5px;">
"In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. All things were made through Him, and without Him nothing was made that was made." (John 1:1-3/NKJV)
</div>
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<span style="font-family: lucida handwriting,sans-serif; font-size: large; font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">E</span> <b>ve did not resist the temptation while Christ victoriously overcame it;</b>
<br />
scripture shows this plainly.
<div style="-webkit-box-shadow: 4px 4px 2px #888888; border-radius: 14px 3px; border: solid 1px #000000; box-shadow: 4px 4px 2px #888888; font-family: tempus sans itc, sans-serif; font-weight: bold; padding: 5px 3px 5px 5px;">
"So when the woman saw that the tree was good for food, that it was pleasant to the eyes, and a tree desirable to make one wise, she took of its fruit and ate..." (Genesis 3:6a/NKJV)
<br />
<br />
"Then Jesus said to him, 'Away with you, Satan! For it is written, "You shall worship the Lord your God, and Him only you shall serve."' Then the devil left Him, and behold, angels came and ministered to Him." (Matthew 4:10, 11/NKJV)
</div>
<br />
<span style="font-family: lucida handwriting,sans-serif; font-size: large; font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">I</span> t is this last difference that leads to further questions and discussion.
<br />
<div style="-webkit-box-shadow: 4px 4px 2px #888888; border-radius: 14px 3px; border: solid 1px #000000; box-shadow: 4px 4px 2px #888888; font-family: tempus sans itc, sans-serif; font-weight: bold; padding: 5px 3px 5px 5px;">
"...For by strength no man shall prevail." (1 Samuel 2:9/NKJV)
</div>
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #446666; font-style: italic;">"Simul iustus et peccator"</span>*<br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">*Martin Luther</span></div>
</div>
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkq7BhOCxGDhtpyAq6r9AW2Pil58NR-hrrkYVAULGzkDEC1tIM5RDHhO04iNzWZYhyaiSW0NyQM2GTIDIjXgOOohlbNu0WyHtvj8oRoxSxe4ysFEl7_neuzZXCyxEKg0osBocy/s1600-h/mangren.png"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5429180750783427682" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkq7BhOCxGDhtpyAq6r9AW2Pil58NR-hrrkYVAULGzkDEC1tIM5RDHhO04iNzWZYhyaiSW0NyQM2GTIDIjXgOOohlbNu0WyHtvj8oRoxSxe4ysFEl7_neuzZXCyxEKg0osBocy/s320/mangren.png" style="-webkit-box-shadow: 4px 4px 2px #888888; border-radius: 14px 3px; border: outset 3px #333333; box-shadow: 4px 4px 2px #888888; cursor: pointer; float: right; height: 26px; margin: -10px 30px 10px -30px; padding: 10px; width: 48px;" /></a>
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">
scripture sources;
<br />
<a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/">Bible Gateway</a>
<br />
image source;
<br />
<a href="http://oeuvremagazineproject.wordpress.com/2009/12/07/sword-fights-and-a-devious-plot-slash-up-the-stage-for-the-three-musketeers-at-the-duluth-playhouse/">sword</a><br />
</span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27640109.post-58912956704968990452012-01-22T07:06:00.000-08:002012-01-29T06:00:29.210-08:00<div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSphS7YwdfSyuNPHalJjRyoa9aUeeq2nXBOiu8i-efMZ-QnvhdpJCUAKVBdIoR9beXxjX_ESMGTQ-gnEShSUQ1zKRLPCMfwLha2R0dV_SIA1OtMgrfdN4Gyr5Y2hF9dB8c3G-r/s1600/sword2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="226" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSphS7YwdfSyuNPHalJjRyoa9aUeeq2nXBOiu8i-efMZ-QnvhdpJCUAKVBdIoR9beXxjX_ESMGTQ-gnEShSUQ1zKRLPCMfwLha2R0dV_SIA1OtMgrfdN4Gyr5Y2hF9dB8c3G-r/s320/sword2.jpg" style="-webkit-box-shadow: 4px 4px 2px #888888; border-radius: 14px 3px; border: outset 3px #333333; box-shadow: 4px 4px 2px #888888; padding: 10px;" width="320" /></a></div>
<b>Pt 12 </b><b>KNOWING AND USING GOD'S WORD/YOUR BIBLE</b>
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #446666; font-style: italic;">"Ave Christus, morituri te salutamus!"</span>
</div>
<br />
<span style="font-family: lucida handwriting,sans-serif; font-size: large; font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">F</span> inally, there is similarity in that Eve and Jesus respond to the temptation presented by Satan with what God has said;
<br />
<div style="-webkit-box-shadow: 4px 4px 2px #888888; border-radius: 14px 3px; border: solid 1px #000000; box-shadow: 4px 4px 2px #888888; font-family: tempus sans itc, sans-serif; font-weight: bold; padding: 5px 3px 5px 5px;">
"And the woman said to the serpent, 'We may eat the fruit of the trees of the garden; but of the fruit of the tree which is in the midst of the garden, <u><i>God has said</i></u>,...'" (Genesis 3:2,3/NKJV)
<br />
"But He answered and said, '<u><i>It is written</i></u>,...'" (Matthew 4:4/NKJV)
<br />
"Jesus said to him, '<u><i>It is written again</i></u>,...'" (Matthew 4:7/NKJV)
<br />
"Then Jesus said to him, 'Away with you, Satan! <u><i>For it is written</i></u>,...'" (Matthew 4:10/NKJV)
</div>
<br />
<span style="font-family: lucida handwriting,sans-serif; font-size: large; font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">T</span> he need to use God's word in overcoming temptation is plainly shown in both situations. Matthew Henry puts it best in his commentary on Matthew 4;
<br />
<blockquote style="color: black;">
"Christ answered all the temptations of Satan with "It is written;" to set us an example, he appealed to what was written in the Scriptures. This method we must take, when at any time we are tempted to sin." <a href="http://www.christnotes.org/commentary.php?b=40&c=4&com=mhc">(Matthew Henry's Concise Commentary On Line)</a>
</blockquote>
<span style="font-family: lucida handwriting,sans-serif; font-size: large; font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">F</span> urthermore, the need to use scripture to interpret it self was briefly discussed in a previous post. We see Jesus using this very principle in Matthew 4:7 when Satan attempts to twist and pervert God's word for his use;
<br />
<div style="-webkit-box-shadow: 4px 4px 2px #888888; border-radius: 14px 3px; border: solid 1px #000000; box-shadow: 4px 4px 2px #888888; font-family: tempus sans itc, sans-serif; font-weight: bold; padding: 5px 3px 5px 5px;">
"Jesus said to him, '<u><i>It is written again</i></u>, "You shall not tempt the LORD your God."'"
</div>
<br />
<span style="font-family: lucida handwriting,sans-serif; font-size: large; font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">I</span> n summary the following similarities between the temptation of Eve and the temptation of Jesus were discussed;
<br />
<span style="font-weight: bold;">
</span><br />
<ol><span style="font-weight: bold;">
<li>In both passages Satan questions God's word. <span style="font-family: tempus sans itc,sans-serif; font-weight: bold;">(Genesis 3:1, Matthew 4:3, 5)</span></li>
<li>In both passages the temptation begins with the legitimate desire to fulfill a God given need.<span style="font-family: tempus sans itc,sans-serif; font-weight: bold;">(Genesis 3:6, Matthew 4:2)</span></li>
<li>In both passages Eve and Jesus are "alone".<span style="font-family: tempus sans itc,sans-serif; font-weight: bold;">(Genesis 3:1,2, Matthew 4:1)</span></li>
<li>In both passages Eve and Jesus use scripture.<span style="font-family: tempus sans itc,sans-serif; font-weight: bold;">(Genesis 3:2, Matthew 4:4, 7, 10)</span></li>
</span></ol>
<span style="font-weight: bold;">
</span>
<span style="font-family: lucida handwriting,sans-serif; font-size: large; font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">N</span> ext we will briefly discuss the differences.
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #446666; font-style: italic;">"Simul iustus et peccator"</span>*<br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">*Martin Luther</span></div>
</div>
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkq7BhOCxGDhtpyAq6r9AW2Pil58NR-hrrkYVAULGzkDEC1tIM5RDHhO04iNzWZYhyaiSW0NyQM2GTIDIjXgOOohlbNu0WyHtvj8oRoxSxe4ysFEl7_neuzZXCyxEKg0osBocy/s1600-h/mangren.png"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5429180750783427682" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkq7BhOCxGDhtpyAq6r9AW2Pil58NR-hrrkYVAULGzkDEC1tIM5RDHhO04iNzWZYhyaiSW0NyQM2GTIDIjXgOOohlbNu0WyHtvj8oRoxSxe4ysFEl7_neuzZXCyxEKg0osBocy/s320/mangren.png" style="-webkit-box-shadow: 4px 4px 2px #888888; border-radius: 14px 3px; border: outset 3px #333333; box-shadow: 4px 4px 2px #888888; cursor: pointer; float: right; height: 26px; margin: -10px 30px 10px -30px; padding: 10px; width: 48px;" /></a>
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">
scripture sources;
<br />
<a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/">Bible Gateway</a>
<br />
image source;
<br />
<a href="http://oeuvremagazineproject.wordpress.com/2009/12/07/sword-fights-and-a-devious-plot-slash-up-the-stage-for-the-three-musketeers-at-the-duluth-playhouse/">sword</a><br />
</span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27640109.post-84323989535354654012011-12-25T06:10:00.000-08:002012-12-16T07:07:59.229-08:00<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKHcxcsXc2lf1ZsOaeB7YSsmGmKlE9-E_4p31YCNNITQuASY64oplHpPjXGvxijmJXNLSaMzfuNNNPwZL-E2yg4s_M2Tskhta9_K8qnMqcAqKAm_ZT03bD_tNfx81jL2gUGZ6i/s1600/under_construction1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKHcxcsXc2lf1ZsOaeB7YSsmGmKlE9-E_4p31YCNNITQuASY64oplHpPjXGvxijmJXNLSaMzfuNNNPwZL-E2yg4s_M2Tskhta9_K8qnMqcAqKAm_ZT03bD_tNfx81jL2gUGZ6i/s320/under_construction1.jpg" width="320" style="border: none;" /></a></div>
<div text align="center">Please pardon my mess hopefully Onesimus is moving to here;
<br />
<a href="http://hopefullyonesimus.wordpress.com/">hopefully Onesimus</a>
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">
image source;
<a href="http://www.bcconstruction.com.au/">construction worker</a>
</span>
</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27640109.post-3383313309263574782011-12-18T06:37:00.000-08:002011-12-19T06:14:39.939-08:00<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgackRK30SR49sNyAN6_N8aB4ygYZKfPgLTZHD6wbGH0PjJjTyjkEmMPf_3lVKZeVODjdsREZUbXt6sy2cJPabuJxBVXbML4n821S5KT8eAM3AXRquHUXlYGl9fmlu43MDlar6A/s1600/gift_of_the_magi1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgackRK30SR49sNyAN6_N8aB4ygYZKfPgLTZHD6wbGH0PjJjTyjkEmMPf_3lVKZeVODjdsREZUbXt6sy2cJPabuJxBVXbML4n821S5KT8eAM3AXRquHUXlYGl9fmlu43MDlar6A/s320/gift_of_the_magi1.jpg" style="-webkit-box-shadow: 4px 4px 2px #888888; border-radius: 14px 3px; border: outset 3px #669966; box-shadow: 4px 4px 2px #888888;" width="274" /></a></div>
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<div style="font-family: eurostile, sans-serif;">
<b>CHRISTMAS WITH A TWIST OF LEMON (or Some Lemon Zest) Pt2</b>
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<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #446666; font-style: italic;">"Ave Christus, morituri te salutamus!"</span></div>
<br />
<div style="-webkit-box-shadow: 4px 4px 2px #888888; border-radius: 14px 3px; border: solid 1px #000000; box-shadow: 4px 4px 2px #888888; font-family: tempus sans itc, sans-serif; font-weight: bold; padding: 5px 3px 5px 5px;">
"Greater love has no one than this, than to lay down one’s life for his friends." (John 15:13/NKJV)
</div>
<br />
<span style="font-family: lucida handwriting,sans-serif; font-size: large; font-weight: bold;">H</span> owever Della's frugality and grit are not all we see with this introduction. We also begin to see some of her daily devotion and the daily giving of her own life that was mentioned in my previous post about this story. Furthermore, if we continue on we see the importance of this modest sum of money; "One dollar and eighty-seven cents." and we understand Della's response to it;
<br />
<blockquote style="color: black;">
"There was clearly nothing to do but flop down on the shabby little couch and howl. So Della did it. Which instigates the moral reflection that life is made up of sobs, sniffles, and smiles, with sniffles predominating. "
<br />
<a href="http://www.literaturecollection.com/a/o_henry/25/"><i>The Gift of the Magi</i></a>
</blockquote>
<span style="font-family: lucida handwriting,sans-serif; font-size: large; font-weight: bold;">A</span> fter all, "...<b>the next day would be Christmas</b>", and what could be more disheartening then to have worked so hard to be able to provide something special for someone we truly love and fall short of obtaining that goal? It is in her response that we see a hint of what is clearly mentioned later;
<blockquote style="color: black;">
"Many a happy hour she had spent planning for something nice for him. Something fine and rare and sterling--something just a little bit near to being worthy of the honor of being owned by Jim."
<a href="http://www.literaturecollection.com/a/o_henry/25/"><i>The Gift of the Magi</i></a>
</blockquote>
<span style="font-family: lucida handwriting,sans-serif; font-size: large; font-weight: bold;">I</span> t is in this little snippet we see the love and honor Della has for Jim, we see there is joy not in something for herself, but in something for the one she loves; "<b>Many a happy hour she had spent planning for something nice for him.</b>". We see the value she has placed on Jim as it is something she feels needs to be worthy of him; "<b>Something fine and rare and sterling--something just a little bit near to being worthy of the honor of being owned by Jim.</b>" We begin to see the delight of Della as she sees the happiness and surprise on Jim's face as she thinks of the moment when he is presented with her expressions of love and devotion. Again, we truly see daily devotion and the daily giving of life.
<div style="-webkit-box-shadow: 4px 4px 2px #888888; border-radius: 14px 3px; border: solid 1px #000000; box-shadow: 4px 4px 2px #888888; font-family: tempus sans itc, sans-serif; font-weight: bold; padding: 5px 3px 5px 5px;">
"Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ also loved the church and gave Himself for her,...So husbands ought to love their own wives as their own bodies; he who loves his wife loves himself...Nevertheless let each one of you in particular so love his own wife as himself, and let the wife see that she respects her husband." (Ephesians 5:25,28,33/NKJV)
</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #446666; font-style: italic;">"Simul iustus et peccator"</span>*<br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">*Martin Luther</span></div>
<span style="font-family: lucida handwriting,sans-serif; font-weight: bold;">*NOTE;</span> for other short stories by O. Henry go <a href="http://www.literaturecollection.com/a/o_henry/25/">here</a>
</div>
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkq7BhOCxGDhtpyAq6r9AW2Pil58NR-hrrkYVAULGzkDEC1tIM5RDHhO04iNzWZYhyaiSW0NyQM2GTIDIjXgOOohlbNu0WyHtvj8oRoxSxe4ysFEl7_neuzZXCyxEKg0osBocy/s1600-h/mangren.png"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5429180750783427682" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkq7BhOCxGDhtpyAq6r9AW2Pil58NR-hrrkYVAULGzkDEC1tIM5RDHhO04iNzWZYhyaiSW0NyQM2GTIDIjXgOOohlbNu0WyHtvj8oRoxSxe4ysFEl7_neuzZXCyxEKg0osBocy/s320/mangren.png" style="border: medium none; cursor: pointer; float: right; height: 26px; margin: -10px 30px 10px -30px; width: 48px;" /></a><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">
scripture sources;
<br />
<a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/">Bible Gateway</a>
<br />
image source;
<br />
<a href="http://larose.typepad.com/words_words_words/2008/12/the-gift-of-the-magi.html">The Gift of The Magi (bookcover)</a><br />
</span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27640109.post-84383160890859069692011-12-11T08:56:00.001-08:002011-12-12T06:44:22.006-08:00<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgackRK30SR49sNyAN6_N8aB4ygYZKfPgLTZHD6wbGH0PjJjTyjkEmMPf_3lVKZeVODjdsREZUbXt6sy2cJPabuJxBVXbML4n821S5KT8eAM3AXRquHUXlYGl9fmlu43MDlar6A/s1600/gift_of_the_magi1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgackRK30SR49sNyAN6_N8aB4ygYZKfPgLTZHD6wbGH0PjJjTyjkEmMPf_3lVKZeVODjdsREZUbXt6sy2cJPabuJxBVXbML4n821S5KT8eAM3AXRquHUXlYGl9fmlu43MDlar6A/s320/gift_of_the_magi1.jpg" style="-webkit-box-shadow: 4px 4px 2px #888888; border-radius: 14px 3px; border: outset 3px #669966; box-shadow: 4px 4px 2px #888888;" width="274" /></a></div>
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<b>CHRISTMAS WITH A TWIST OF LEMON (or Some Lemon Zest)</b>
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<span style="color: #446666; font-style: italic;">"Ave Christus, morituri te salutamus!"</span></div>
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And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying: “ Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, goodwill toward men!”. (Luke 2:13.14/NKJV)
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<span style="font-family: lucida handwriting,sans-serif; font-size: large; font-weight: bold;">L</span> ast year at Christmas as I was looking for something to blog about I briefly discussed some <a href="http://hopefully-onesimus.blogspot.com/2009/11/christmas-pt1-little-twist-of-lemon.html">literature</a> and its redemptive qualities (see also <a href="http://hopefully-onesimus.blogspot.com/2009/12/christmas-pt2-little-twist-of-lemon.html">here</a>, <a href="http://hopefully-onesimus.blogspot.com/2009/12/christmas-pt-3-little-twist-of-lemon.html">here</a> and <a href="http://hopefully-onesimus.blogspot.com/2009/12/christmas-pt2-little-twist-of-lemon.html">here</a>). This year I hope to do the same and, I think it is obvious from the picture above, one piece of literature I hope to blog about is <i>The Gift of The Magi</i> by O. Henry*. I must confess that all I know about O. Henry is simply this; he was an American and his real name was William Sydney Porter. So I do apologize for my lack of biographical knowledge. I honestly have no idea whether his life was one spent in the debaucheries of sin or in the enlightenment of saintliness. The apostle Paul wisely said, "...ask nothing for conscience sake." and so (in the case of O. Henry's bio) I will follow that advise.
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"Greater love has no one than this, than to lay down one’s life for his friends." (John 15:13/NKJV)
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<span style="font-family: lucida handwriting,sans-serif; font-size: large; font-weight: bold;">Y</span> et whether Mr. Porter, aka O. Henry, was a "sinner" or a "saint" we cannot deny the humanity and stark truth which we are confronted with in his story <i>The Gift of the Magi</i>. I quote John 15 above not because someone in the story gives their life, at least not in the literal sense. However, we must remember there are other ways of giving ones life. It is this "other way" that we get a glimpse of in O. Henry's brief (there are only 2163 words in the story) tale. It is not only in their large but also in their small actions that we see both Jim and Della (O. Henry's characters in the story) would be more then willing to give that "...last full measure of devotion..." which Abrahan Lincoln so highly honors in his <a href="http://showcase.netins.net/web/creative/lincoln/speeches/gettysburg.htm">Gettysburg Address</a>. It is the daily devotion, the daily giving of one's own life that we see in both the characters, and if we are honest we would say daily devotion and daily giving of one's own life can often be more difficult than that ultimate sacrifice.
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<span style="font-family: lucida handwriting,sans-serif; font-size: large; font-weight: bold;">S</span> o what specifically in this vignette reflects shared sacrifice and the pleasure of giving, i.e. other then Della's obvious sacrifice of her hair and Jim's obvious sacrifice of his watch, what do we see? The answer to this immediately begins with O. Henry's introduction of Della at start of the whole story;
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<blockquote style="color: black;">
"One dollar and eighty-seven cents. That was all. And sixty cents of it was in pennies. Pennies saved one and two at a time by bulldozing the grocer and the vegetable man and the butcher until one's cheeks burned with the silent imputation of parsimony that such close dealing implied. Three times Della counted it. One dollar and eighty-seven cents. And the next day would be Christmas."
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<a href="http://www.literaturecollection.com/a/o_henry/25/"><i>The Gift of the Magi</i></a>
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In this succinct paragraph O. Henry not only shows us Della's dilemma, but part of her character. We see that Della is frugal and has some grit; <b><i>"Pennies saved one and two at a time by bulldozing the grocer and the vegetable man and the butcher until one's cheeks burned with the silent imputation of parsimony..."</i>
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<span style="color: #446666; font-style: italic;">"Simul iustus et peccator"</span>*<br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">*Martin Luther</span></div>
<span style="font-family: lucida handwriting,sans-serif; font-weight: bold;">*NOTE;</span> for other short stories by O. Henry go <a href="http://www.literaturecollection.com/a/o_henry/25/">here</a>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkq7BhOCxGDhtpyAq6r9AW2Pil58NR-hrrkYVAULGzkDEC1tIM5RDHhO04iNzWZYhyaiSW0NyQM2GTIDIjXgOOohlbNu0WyHtvj8oRoxSxe4ysFEl7_neuzZXCyxEKg0osBocy/s1600-h/mangren.png"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5429180750783427682" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkq7BhOCxGDhtpyAq6r9AW2Pil58NR-hrrkYVAULGzkDEC1tIM5RDHhO04iNzWZYhyaiSW0NyQM2GTIDIjXgOOohlbNu0WyHtvj8oRoxSxe4ysFEl7_neuzZXCyxEKg0osBocy/s320/mangren.png" style="border: medium none; cursor: pointer; float: right; height: 26px; margin: -10px 30px 10px -30px; width: 48px;" /></a><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">
scripture sources;
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<a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/">Bible Gateway</a>
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image source;
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<a href="http://larose.typepad.com/words_words_words/2008/12/the-gift-of-the-magi.html">The Gift of The Magi (bookcover)</a><br />
</span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27640109.post-32035744037802470512011-12-04T19:42:00.001-08:002011-12-04T19:51:53.755-08:00<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-size: 180%; font-weight: bold;">DECEMBER - FIRST SUNDAY PASSAGE</span><br />
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<span style="color: #446666; font-style: italic;">"Ave Christus, morituri te salutamus!"</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: eurostile,sans-serif; font-size: large; font-weight: bold;">Luke 1 & 2</span>
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<span style="font-size: small; font-weight: bold;">(New King James Bible)</span>
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<span style="font-size: large; font-weight: bold;">Chapter 1</span>
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<span style="font-size: small; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: underline;">Dedication to Theophilus</span>
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<sup><u>1</sup></u> Inasmuch as many have taken in hand to set in order a narrative of those things which have been fulfilled among us,
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<sup><u>2</sup></u> just as those who from the beginning were eyewitnesses and ministers of the word delivered them to us,
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<sup><u>3</sup></u> it seemed good to me also, having had perfect understanding of all things from the very first, to write to you an orderly account, most excellent Theophilus,
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<sup><u>4</sup></u> that you may know the certainty of those things in which you were instructed.</div>
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<span style="font-size: small; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: underline;">John's Birth Announced to Zacharias</span>
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<sup><u>5</sup></u> There was in the days of Herod, the king of Judea, a certain priest named Zacharias, of the division of Abijah. His wife was of the daughters of Aaron, and her name was Elizabeth.
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<sup><u>6</sup></u> And they were both righteous before God, walking in all the commandments and ordinances of the Lord blameless.
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<sup><u>7</sup></u> But they had no child, because Elizabeth was barren, and they were both well advanced in years.
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<sup><u>8</sup></u> So it was, that while he was serving as priest before God in the order of his division,
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<sup><u>9</sup></u> according to the custom of the priesthood, his lot fell to burn incense when he went into the temple of the Lord.
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<sup><u>10</sup></u> And the whole multitude of the people was praying outside at the hour of incense.
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<sup><u>11</sup></u> Then an angel of the Lord appeared to him, standing on the right side of the altar of incense.
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<sup><u>12</sup></u> And when Zacharias saw him, he was troubled, and fear fell upon him.
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<sup><u>13</sup></u> But the angel said to him, “Do not be afraid, Zacharias, for your prayer is heard; and your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son, and you shall call his name John.
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<sup><u>14</sup></u> And you will have joy and gladness, and many will rejoice at his birth.
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<sup><u>15</sup></u> For he will be great in the sight of the Lord, and shall drink neither wine nor strong drink. He will also be filled with the Holy Spirit, even from his mother’s womb.
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<sup><u>16</sup></u> And he will turn many of the children of Israel to the Lord their God.
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<sup><u>17</sup></u> He will also go before Him in the spirit and power of Elijah, ‘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.”
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<sup><u>18</sup></u> And Zacharias said to the angel, “How shall I know this? For I am an old man, and my wife is well advanced in years.”
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<sup><u>19</sup></u> And the angel answered and said to him, “I am Gabriel, who stands in the presence of God, and was sent to speak to you and bring you these glad tidings.
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<sup><u>20</sup></u> But behold, you will be mute and not able to speak until the day these things take place, because you did not believe my words which will be fulfilled in their own time.”
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<sup><u>21</sup></u> And the people waited for Zacharias, and marveled that he lingered so long in the temple.
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<sup><u>22</sup></u> But when he came out, he could not speak to them; and they perceived that he had seen a vision in the temple, for he beckoned to them and remained speechless.
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<sup><u>23</sup></u> So it was, as soon as the days of his service were completed, that he departed to his own house.
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<sup><u>24</sup></u> Now after those days his wife Elizabeth conceived; and she hid herself five months, saying,
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<sup><u>25</sup></u> “Thus the Lord has dealt with me, in the days when He looked on me, to take away my reproach among people.”
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<span style="font-size: small; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: underline;">Christ's Birth Announced to Mary</span>
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<sup><u>26</sup></u> Now in the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent by God to a city of Galilee named Nazareth,
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<sup><u>27</sup></u> to a virgin betrothed to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David. The virgin’s name was Mary.
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<sup><u>28</sup></u> And having come in, the angel said to her, “Rejoice, highly favored one, the Lord is with you; blessed are you among women!”
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<sup><u>29</sup></u> But when she saw him, she was troubled at his saying, and considered what manner of greeting this was.
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<sup><u>30</sup></u> Then the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God.
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<sup><u>31</sup></u> And behold, you will conceive in your womb and bring forth a Son, and shall call His name JESUS.
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<sup><u>32</sup></u> He will be great, and will be called the Son of the Highest; and the Lord God will give Him the throne of His father David.
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<sup><u>33</sup></u> And He will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and of His kingdom there will be no end.”
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<sup><u>34</sup></u> Then Mary said to the angel, “How can this be, since I do not know a man?”
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<sup><u>35</sup></u> And the angel answered and said to her, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Highest will overshadow you; therefore, also, that Holy One who is to be born will be called the Son of God.
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<sup><u>36</sup></u> Now indeed, Elizabeth your relative has also conceived a son in her old age; and this is now the sixth month for her who was called barren.
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<sup><u>37</sup></u> For with God nothing will be impossible.”
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<sup><u>38</sup></u> Then Mary said, “Behold the maidservant of the Lord! Let it be to me according to your word.” And the angel departed from her.
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<span style="font-size: small; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: underline;">Mary Visits Elizabeth</span>
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<sup><u>39</sup></u> Now Mary arose in those days and went into the hill country with haste, to a city of Judah,
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<sup><u>40</sup></u> and entered the house of Zacharias and greeted Elizabeth.
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<sup><u>41</sup></u> And it happened, when Elizabeth heard the greeting of Mary, that the babe leaped in her womb; and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit.
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<sup><u>42</sup></u> Then she spoke out with a loud voice and said, “Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb!
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<sup><u>43</sup></u> But why is this granted to me, that the mother of my Lord should come to me?
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<sup><u>44</sup></u> For indeed, as soon as the voice of your greeting sounded in my ears, the babe leaped in my womb for joy.
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<sup><u>45</sup></u> Blessed is she who believed, for there will be a fulfillment of those things which were told her from the Lord.”
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<span style="font-size: small; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: underline;">The Song of Mary</span>
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<sup><u>46</sup></u> And Mary said:“ My soul magnifies the Lord,
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<sup><u>47</sup></u> And my spirit has rejoiced in God my Savior.
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<sup><u>48</sup></u> For He has regarded the lowly state of His maidservant; for behold, henceforth all generations will call me blessed.
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<sup><u>49</sup></u> For He who is mighty has done great things for me, and holy is His name.
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<sup><u>50</sup></u> And His mercy is on those who fear Him from generation to generation.
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<sup><u>51</sup></u> He has shown strength with His arm; He has scattered the proud in the imagination of their hearts.
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<sup><u>52</sup></u> He has put down the mighty from their thrones, and exalted the lowly.
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<sup><u>53</sup></u> He has filled the hungry with good things, and the rich He has sent away empty.
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<sup><u>54</sup></u> He has helped His servant Israel, in remembrance of His mercy,
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<sup><u>55</sup></u> As He spoke to our fathers, to Abraham and to his seed forever.”
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<sup><u>56</sup></u> And Mary remained with her about three months, and returned to her house.
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<span style="font-size: small; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: underline;">Birth of John the Baptist</span>
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<sup><u>57</sup></u> Now Elizabeth’s full time came for her to be delivered, and she brought forth a son.
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<sup><u>58</sup></u> When her neighbors and relatives heard how the Lord had shown great mercy to her, they rejoiced with her.
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<span style="font-size: small; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: underline;">Circumcision of John The Baptist</span>
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<sup><u>59</sup></u> So it was, on the eighth day, that they came to circumcise the child; and they would have called him by the name of his father, Zacharias.
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<sup><u>60</sup></u> His mother answered and said, “No; he shall be called John.”
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<sup><u>61</sup></u> But they said to her, “There is no one among your relatives who is called by this name.”
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<sup><u>62</sup></u> So they made signs to his father—what he would have him called.
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<sup><u>63</sup></u> And he asked for a writing tablet, and wrote, saying, “His name is John.” So they all marveled.
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<sup><u>64</sup></u> Immediately his mouth was opened and his tongue loosed, and he spoke, praising God.
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<sup><u>65</sup></u> Then fear came on all who dwelt around them; and all these sayings were discussed throughout all the hill country of Judea.
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<sup><u>66</sup></u> And all those who heard them kept them in their hearts, saying, “What kind of child will this be?” And the hand of the Lord was with him.
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<span style="font-size: small; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: underline;">Zacharias' Prophecy</span>
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<sup><u>67</sup></u> Now his father Zacharias was filled with the Holy Spirit, and prophesied, saying:
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<sup><u>68</sup></u> “Blessed is the Lord God of Israel, for He has visited and redeemed His people,
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<sup><u>69</sup></u> And has raised up a horn of salvation for us in the house of His servant David,
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<sup><u>70</sup></u> As He spoke by the mouth of His holy prophets, who have been since the world began,
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<sup><u>71</sup></u> That we should be saved from our enemies and from the hand of all who hate us,
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<sup><u>72</sup></u> To perform the mercy promised to our fathers and to remember His holy covenant,
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<sup><u>73</sup></u> The oath which He swore to our father Abraham:
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<sup><u>74</sup></u> To grant us that we, being delivered from the hand of our enemies, might serve Him without fear,
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<sup><u>75</sup></u> In holiness and righteousness before Him all the days of our life.
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<sup><u>76</sup></u> “And you, child, will be called the prophet of the Highest; for you will go before the face of the Lord to prepare His ways,
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<sup><u>77</sup></u> To give knowledge of salvation to His people by the remission of their sins,
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<sup><u>78</sup></u> Through the tender mercy of our God, with which the Dayspring from on high has visited us;
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<sup><u>79</sup></u> To give light to those who sit in darkness and the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the way of peace."
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<sup><u>80</sup></u> So the child grew and became strong in spirit, and was in the deserts till the day of his manifestation to Israel.
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<span style="font-size: large; font-weight: bold;">Chapter 2</span>
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<span style="font-size: small; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: underline;">Christ Born to Mary</span>
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<sup><u>1</u></sup> And it came to pass in those days that a decree went out from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be registered.
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<sup><u>2</u></sup> This census first took place while Quirinius was governing Syria.
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<sup><u>3</u></sup> So all went to be registered, everyone to his own city.
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<sup><u>4</u></sup> Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judea, to the city of David, which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and lineage of David,
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<sup><u>5</u></sup> to be registered with Mary, his betrothed wife,[a] who was with child.
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<sup><u>6</u></sup> So it was, that while they were there, the days were completed for her to be delivered.
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<sup><u>7</u></sup> And she brought forth her firstborn Son, and wrapped Him in swaddling cloths, and laid Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.
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<span style="font-size: small; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: underline;">Glory in the Highest</span>
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<sup><u>8</sup></u> Now there were in the same country shepherds living out in the fields, keeping watch over their flock by night.
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<sup><u>9</sup></u> And behold, an angel of the Lord stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were greatly afraid.
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<sup><u>10</sup></u> Then the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people.
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<sup><u>11</sup></u> For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.
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<sup><u>12</sup></u> And this will be the sign to you: You will find a Babe wrapped in swaddling cloths, lying in a manger.”
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<sup><u>13</sup></u> And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying:
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<sup><u>14</sup></u> “ Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, goodwill toward men!”
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<sup><u>15</sup></u> So it was, when the angels had gone away from them into heaven, that the shepherds said to one another, “Let us now go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has come to pass, which the Lord has made known to us.”
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<sup><u>16</sup></u> And they came with haste and found Mary and Joseph, and the Babe lying in a manger.
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<sup><u>17</sup></u> Now when they had seen Him, they made widely known the saying which was told them concerning this Child.
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<sup><u>18</sup></u> And all those who heard it marveled at those things which were told them by the shepherds.
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<sup><u>19</sup></u> But Mary kept all these things and pondered them in her heart.
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<sup><u>20</sup></u> Then the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen, as it was told them.
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<span style="font-size: small; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: underline;">Circumsion of Jesus</span>
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<sup><u>21</sup></u> And when eight days were completed for the circumcision of the Child, His name was called JESUS, the name given by the angel before He was conceived in the womb.
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<span style="font-size: small; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: underline;">Jesus Presented in the Temple</span>
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<sup><u>22</sup></u> Now when the days of her purification according to the law of Moses were completed, they brought Him to Jerusalem to present Him to the Lord
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<sup><u>23</sup></u> (as it is written in the law of the Lord, “Every male who opens the womb shall be called holy to the LORD”),
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<sup><u>24</sup></u> and to offer a sacrifice according to what is said in the law of the Lord, “A pair of turtledoves or two young pigeons.”
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<span style="font-size: small; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: underline;">Simeon Sees God's Salvation</span>
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<sup><u>25</sup></u> And behold, there was a man in Jerusalem whose name was Simeon, and this man was just and devout, waiting for the Consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was upon him.
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<sup><u>26</sup></u> And it had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not see death before he had seen the Lord’s Christ.
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<sup><u>27</sup></u> So he came by the Spirit into the temple. And when the parents brought in the Child Jesus, to do for Him according to the custom of the law, 28 he took Him up in his arms and blessed God and said:
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<sup><u>29</sup></u> “Lord, now You are letting Your servant depart in peace, according to Your word;
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<sup><u>30</sup></u> For my eyes have seen Your salvation
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<sup><u>31</sup></u> Which You have prepared before the face of all peoples,
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<sup><u>32</sup></u> A light to bring revelation to the Gentiles, and the glory of Your people Israel.”
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<sup><u>33</sup></u> And Joseph and His mother marveled at those things which were spoken of Him.
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<sup><u>34</sup></u> Then Simeon blessed them, and said to Mary His mother, “Behold, this Child is destined for the fall and rising of many in Israel, and for a sign which will be spoken against
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<sup><u>35</sup></u> (yes, a sword will pierce through your own soul also), that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.”
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<span style="font-size: small; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: underline;">Anna Bears Witness to the Redeemer</span>
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<sup><u>36</sup></u> Now there was one, Anna, a prophetess, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher. She was of a great age, and had lived with a husband seven years from her virginity;
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<sup><u>37</sup></u> and this woman was a widow of about eighty-four years, who did not depart from the temple, but served God with fastings and prayers night and day.
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<sup><u>38</sup></u> And coming in that instant she gave thanks to the Lord, and spoke of Him to all those who looked for redemption in Jerusalem.
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<span style="font-size: small; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: underline;">The Family Returns to Nazareth</span>
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<sup><u>39</sup></u> So when they had performed all things according to the law of the Lord, they returned to Galilee, to their own city, Nazareth.
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<sup><u>40</sup></u> And the Child grew and became strong in spirit, filled with wisdom; and the grace of God was upon Him.
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<span style="font-size: small; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: underline;">The Boy Jesus Amazes the Scholars</span>
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<sup><u>41</sup></u> His parents went to Jerusalem every year at the Feast of the Passover.
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<sup><u>42</sup></u> And when He was twelve years old, they went up to Jerusalem according to the custom of the feast.
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<sup><u>43</sup></u> When they had finished the days, as they returned, the Boy Jesus lingered behind in Jerusalem. And Joseph and His mother did not know it;
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<sup><u>44</sup></u> but supposing Him to have been in the company, they went a day’s journey, and sought Him among their relatives and acquaintances.
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<sup><u>45</sup></u> So when they did not find Him, they returned to Jerusalem, seeking Him.
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<sup><u>46</sup></u> Now so it was that after three days they found Him in the temple, sitting in the midst of the teachers, both listening to them and asking them questions.
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<sup><u>47</sup></u> And all who heard Him were astonished at His understanding and answers.
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<sup><u>48</sup></u> So when they saw Him, they were amazed; and His mother said to Him, “Son, why have You done this to us? Look, Your father and I have sought You anxiously.”
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<sup><u>49</sup></u> And He said to them, “Why did you seek Me? Did you not know that I must be about My Father’s business?”
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<sup><u>50</sup></u> But they did not understand the statement which He spoke to them.
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<span style="font-size: small; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: underline;">Jesus Advances in Wisdom and Favor</span>
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<sup><u>51</sup></u> Then He went down with them and came to Nazareth, and was subject to them, but His mother kept all these things in her heart.
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<sup><u>52</sup></u> And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and men.
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</div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #446666; font-style: italic;">"Simul iustus et peccator. "</span>*
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;">*Martin Luther</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkq7BhOCxGDhtpyAq6r9AW2Pil58NR-hrrkYVAULGzkDEC1tIM5RDHhO04iNzWZYhyaiSW0NyQM2GTIDIjXgOOohlbNu0WyHtvj8oRoxSxe4ysFEl7_neuzZXCyxEKg0osBocy/s1600-h/mangren.png"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5429180750783427682" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkq7BhOCxGDhtpyAq6r9AW2Pil58NR-hrrkYVAULGzkDEC1tIM5RDHhO04iNzWZYhyaiSW0NyQM2GTIDIjXgOOohlbNu0WyHtvj8oRoxSxe4ysFEl7_neuzZXCyxEKg0osBocy/s320/mangren.png" style="border: medium none; cursor: pointer; float: right; height: 26px; margin: -10px 30px 10px -30px; width: 48px;" /></a><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: eurostile,sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">
image re-design;
<br />
<a href="http://mdbounarotti.tripod.com/bleuelle3.html">bleu elle</a>
<br />
original image source idea;
<br />
<a href="http://spd.adventistconnect.org/our-logo-and-name">http://spd.adventistconnect.org/our-logo-and-name</a><br />
bible passage source;
<br />
<a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/">Bible Gateway</a>
</span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27640109.post-73159060565555540692011-12-02T04:48:00.001-08:002011-12-02T04:50:46.977-08:00<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<b>DECEMBER - GET OUT OF THE SHACKLES! - WHY HOPEFULLY ONESIMUS?</b><br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #446666; font-style: italic;">"Ave Christus, morituri te salutamus!"</span></div>
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<div style="font-family: eurostile,sans-serif; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: lucida handwriting,sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b> S</b></span> o who or what are you a slave to?<br />
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"<u><b>Therefore you are no longer a slave</b></u>, but a son; and if a son, then an heir through God." (Galatians 4:7/NASB)
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<br />
"For <u><b>sin shall not be master over you</b></u>, for you are not under law but under grace." (Romans 6:14/NASB)
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<br />
<span style="font-family: lucida handwriting,sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b> O</b></span> nce a month I re-post this so anyone reading will understand the purposes for creating this blog. So, before I do anything else please allow me to explain the main purpose of this blog and particularly these posts, i.e. the gospel of Jesus Christ.
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"For I determined not to know anything among you except Jesus Christ and Him crucified." (1 Corinthians 2:2/NKJV)
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>The Bad News First -</b></span><span style="font-size: large;"><b> </b></span> <i><b>(In the Shackles of Sin)</b></i>
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<span style="font-family: lucida handwriting,sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b> A</b></span> gain I ask; who or what are you a slave to?
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"Jesus answered them, 'Most assuredly, I say to you, <u><b>whoever commits sin is a slave of sin</b></u>. And a slave does not abide in the house forever',..." (John 8:34, 35a/NKJV)
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<span style="font-family: lucida handwriting,sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b> Y</b></span> ou are not alone, the truth is we all have sinned and consequently will not get to be with God, <br />
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"...for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God,..." (Romans 3:23/NASB)
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<span style="font-family: lucida handwriting,sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b> W</b></span> e are all weighed down by those things which seperate us from God, continually bring spiritual death in our lives, and inevitably destine us to hell;
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"For the wages of sin is death,..." (Romans 6:23/NASB)
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Now the Good News - </b></span><i><b>(Get Out of the Shackles It's Time to G.O.)</b></i>
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<span style="font-family: lucida handwriting,sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b> G</b></span> od freely provided a way for us to be with Him;
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"...but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord." (Romans 6:23/NASB)
</div>
<br />
<span style="font-family: lucida handwriting,sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b> G</b></span> od loves us so much He sent His son Jesus to pay the price;
<br />
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"But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us." (Romans 5:8/NASB)
</div>
<br />
<span style="font-family: lucida handwriting,sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b> G</b></span> od provided Someone who can and will set you free. All you have to do is turn to Him, acknowledge your need and ask Him to forgive you;
<br />
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"...if you confess with your mouth Jesus as Lord, and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved;..." (Romans 10:9/NASB)
</div>
<br />
<span style="font-family: lucida handwriting,sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b> O</b></span> nce we have turned to Christ, confessed our sins, and need for forgiveness to Him we have peace with God;
<br />
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"Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ,..." (Romans 5:1/NASB)
</div>
<br />
<span style="font-family: lucida handwriting,sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b> O</b></span> nce we have done so we have the ability (through Christ) to overcome sin in our lives
<br />
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"For <u><b>sin shall not be master over you</b></u>, for you are not under law but under grace." (Romans 6:14/NASB)
</div>
<br />
<span style="font-family: lucida handwriting,sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b> O</b></span> nce we make the choice to follow Christ we are heirs with Him;
<br />
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"<u><b>Therefore you are no longer a slave</b></u>, but a son; and if a son, then an heir through God." (Galatians 4:7/NASB)
</div>
<br />
<span style="font-family: lucida handwriting,sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b> S</b></span> o, again I ask; who or what are you a slave to? I (and millions of others) know Someone who can set you free. If you truly want to be set free then all you have to do is turn to Him (Jesus).
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Royal Gifts</b></span>
<br />
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"For to me, to live is Christ, and to die is gain." (Philippians 1:21/NKJV)
</div>
<br />
<span style="font-family: lucida handwriting,sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b> I</b></span> n my previous <a href="http://hopefully-onesimus.blogspot.com/2011/11/november-get-out-of-shackles-why.html">post</a> we began discussing practical ways to help us live for Christ;
<br />
<ol><b>
<li>weekly church attendance</li>
<li>daily prayer</li>
<li>daily Bible reading</li>
</b></ol>
<span style="font-family: lucida handwriting,sans-serif; font-size: large; font-weight: bold;"> A </span>t this point I would like to pause and discuss the reason <u><i><b>why</b></i></u> we do these, I will be brief, we have been given some phenomenal gifts;
<br />
<ol><b>
<li>God willing gave His one and only begotten son (Jesus) so we could have eternal life.</li>
<li>Jesus willing gave His life on the cross (suffering all the things we should have) to pay the debt we owe.</li>
<li>The Holy Spirit is freely given and willingly comes to dwell within us so once we are saved <u><i>we can live for Christ</i></u>.</li>
</b></ol>
<span style="font-family: lucida handwriting,sans-serif; font-size: large; font-weight: bold;"> N</span> ote - while my salvation is not contingent upon my works, i.e. <b><u>I am <i>saved</i> <i>solely </i>by what Christ did for me</u>,</b> <b><u>no good works of mine can get me to heaven</u>.</b> That does not negate the fact of what Christ said;
<br />
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"Therefore whoever hears these sayings of Mine, <u><i>and does them</i></u>..." (Matthew 7:24/NKJV)
<br />
"But why do you call Me ‘Lord, Lord,’ and not do the things which I say? Whoever comes to Me, and hears My sayings <u><i>and does them</i></u>..." (Luke 6: 46,47/NKJV)
<br />
"<u><i>If you love Me, keep My commandments.</i></u>" (John 14:15/NKJV)
</div>
<br />
<span style="font-family: lucida handwriting,sans-serif; font-size: large; font-weight: bold;"> O</span> ther parts of the New Testament plainly state the importance of <u><b><i>living</i> for Christ</b></u>;
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"And let us consider one another in order to <u><i>stir up love and good works</i></u>,..." (Hebrews 10:24/NKJV)
<br />
"<u><i>But be doers of the word, and not hearers only</i></u>, deceiving yourselves." (James 1:22/NKJV)
<br />
"But someone will say, 'You have faith, and I have works.' Show me your faith without your works, and <u><i>I will show you my faith by my works</i></u>." (James 2:18/NKJV)
</div>
<br />
<span style="font-family: lucida handwriting,sans-serif; font-size: large; font-weight: bold;"> F</span> urthemore, Romans shows the end results if we are not thankful and do not glorify God in/with our lives;
<br />
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"...because, although they knew God, <i>they did not glorify Him as God, nor were thankful, <u>but became futile in their thoughts, and their foolish hearts were darkened.</u></i>" (Romans 1:21/NKJV)
</div>
<br />
<span style="font-family: lucida handwriting,sans-serif; font-size: large; font-weight: bold;"> T </span> he fact is if we are truly Christians then we will want to give back to God, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit because of all that has been given to us, This is called gratitude, or as scripture puts it, thankfulness. The only thing that even comes close to what has been given to us is our very lives. So as Christians we want to <u><b><i>live</i> for Him</b></u>. Out of gratitude we daily offer our lives (and everything in them) to the King of Kings and Lord of Lords.
<br />
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"Therefore by Him let us continually offer the sacrifice of <u><i>praise to God</i></u>, that is, <u><i>the fruit of our lips, giving thanks to His name</i></u>." (Hebrews 13: 15/NKJV)
</div>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #446666; font-style: italic;">"Simul iustus et peccator"</span>*<br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">*Martin Luther</span></div>
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkq7BhOCxGDhtpyAq6r9AW2Pil58NR-hrrkYVAULGzkDEC1tIM5RDHhO04iNzWZYhyaiSW0NyQM2GTIDIjXgOOohlbNu0WyHtvj8oRoxSxe4ysFEl7_neuzZXCyxEKg0osBocy/s1600-h/mangren.png"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5429180750783427682" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkq7BhOCxGDhtpyAq6r9AW2Pil58NR-hrrkYVAULGzkDEC1tIM5RDHhO04iNzWZYhyaiSW0NyQM2GTIDIjXgOOohlbNu0WyHtvj8oRoxSxe4ysFEl7_neuzZXCyxEKg0osBocy/s320/mangren.png" style="border: medium none; cursor: pointer; float: right; height: 26px; margin: -10px 30px 10px -30px; width: 48px;" /></a><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">
scripture sources;
<br />
<a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/">Bible Gateway</a>
<br />
image source;
<br />
<a href="http://wallpaper.wallpedia.org/33__Get_out_of_the_shackles.htm">Get Out of the Shackles - wallpaper</a><br />
</span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27640109.post-16028972479559645902011-11-27T05:43:00.001-08:002011-11-27T05:44:18.535-08:00<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheRqcPE4-YuqQshDlXitcIyzlf_e_nUWx78pQLSYJSveqhyphenhyphennY9zJbVvx2_aULpEpY65fEo4szV9G8lRbXaXuBmgF91FAniT4NVMchEqdsKMjEpWszA2JMS_VkZuLNQ2xNgTJPi/s1600/dove2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img 320"="" border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheRqcPE4-YuqQshDlXitcIyzlf_e_nUWx78pQLSYJSveqhyphenhyphennY9zJbVvx2_aULpEpY65fEo4szV9G8lRbXaXuBmgF91FAniT4NVMchEqdsKMjEpWszA2JMS_VkZuLNQ2xNgTJPi/s320/dove2.jpg" style="-moz-border-radius: 5px; border-radius: 5px; border: 2px #ff4500 inset;" /></a>
</div>
<div style="font-family: eurostile, sans-serif;">
<b>Pt 11 KNOWING AND USING WHAT GOD HAS SAID/YOUR BIBLE</b><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #446666; font-style: italic;">"Ave Christus, morituri te salutamus!"</span>
</div>
<span style="font-family: lucida handwriting,sans-serif; font-size: large; font-weight: bold;">S</span> o in both cases Satan challenges God's known word. We also see in both passages temptation begins with the desire to fulfill a legitimate need. In Eves case it was to eat;
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“Has God indeed said, ‘<b><u><i>You shall not eat</i></u></b> of every tree of the garden’?” (Genesis 3:1/NKJV)
<br />
"So when the woman <u><i><b>saw that the tree was good for food,</b></i></u> that it was pleasant to the eyes,..." (Genesis 3:6/NKJV)
</div>
<br />
and in Jesus' case it was because he was hungry;
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"And when He had fasted forty days and forty nights, <u><i><b>afterward He was hungry</b></i></u>." (Matthew 4:2/NKJV)
<br />
“If You are the Son of God, <u><i>command that these stones become bread.</i></u>” (Matthew 4:3/NKJV)
</div>
<br />
<span style="font-family: lucida handwriting,sans-serif; font-size: large; font-weight: bold;">B</span> oth of these are legitimate needs given by God. So Satan does not have the power to create instead Satan takes the good things God has already legitimately given and twists/perverts them. Obviously, food, eating and being hungry are not evil in and of themselves, however the problem with each of these in Genesis 3 and Matthew 4 was how these legitimate needs were to be met, i.e. were they to be fulfilled God's way, or another way?.
<br />
<span style="font-family: lucida handwriting,sans-serif; font-size: large; font-weight: bold;">A</span> dditionally we see another similarity in that both Eve (for reasons why Eve was believed to be alone -initially- when she had the conversation with the serpent see <a href="http://www.answersingenesis.org/articles/2010/08/31/was-adam-with-eve">here</a> and <a href="http://hopefully-onesimus.blogspot.com/2011/07/pt7-knowing-and-using-what-god-has.html">here</a>) and Jesus were alone when Satan came to tempt them. While it is true we are never truly alone as God always is/was/will be there for us. It is also true that Satan will often come to tempt us when we are "alone" and at a moment of weakness (or perceived weakness). The first thing Eve should have done was to call her husband, Adam, as soon as the serpent began talking to her. If that did not work Eve could call God, after all it is evident He spoke with both Adam and Eve in Genesis 1 and that He intended to visit them in the garden and have an ongoing relationship with both of them;
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"And they heard the sound of the LORD God walking in the garden in the cool of the day,..." (Genesis 3:8a/NKJV)
</div>
<br />
<span style="font-family: lucida handwriting,sans-serif; font-size: large; font-weight: bold;">Y</span> et Eve (initially) does neither of these although both Adam and God are obviously not to far away. A lesson every Christian should learn is simply; if help is near when being tempted, use it to overcome the temptation.
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #446666; font-style: italic;">"Simul iustus et peccator"</span>*<br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">*Martin Luther</span></div>
</div>
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkq7BhOCxGDhtpyAq6r9AW2Pil58NR-hrrkYVAULGzkDEC1tIM5RDHhO04iNzWZYhyaiSW0NyQM2GTIDIjXgOOohlbNu0WyHtvj8oRoxSxe4ysFEl7_neuzZXCyxEKg0osBocy/s1600-h/mangren.png"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5429180750783427682" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkq7BhOCxGDhtpyAq6r9AW2Pil58NR-hrrkYVAULGzkDEC1tIM5RDHhO04iNzWZYhyaiSW0NyQM2GTIDIjXgOOohlbNu0WyHtvj8oRoxSxe4ysFEl7_neuzZXCyxEKg0osBocy/s320/mangren.png" style="border: medium none; cursor: pointer; float: right; height: 26px; margin: -10px 30px 10px -30px; width: 48px;" /></a>
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">
scripture sources;
<br />
<a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/">Bible Gateway</a>
<br />
image source;
<br />
<a href="http://zbyam.wordpress.com/2010/08/02/calling-this-is-my-son/">dove</a>
</span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27640109.post-77627049076174994992011-11-13T05:00:00.001-08:002011-11-13T05:01:23.747-08:00<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheRqcPE4-YuqQshDlXitcIyzlf_e_nUWx78pQLSYJSveqhyphenhyphennY9zJbVvx2_aULpEpY65fEo4szV9G8lRbXaXuBmgF91FAniT4NVMchEqdsKMjEpWszA2JMS_VkZuLNQ2xNgTJPi/s1600/dove2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img 320"="" border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheRqcPE4-YuqQshDlXitcIyzlf_e_nUWx78pQLSYJSveqhyphenhyphennY9zJbVvx2_aULpEpY65fEo4szV9G8lRbXaXuBmgF91FAniT4NVMchEqdsKMjEpWszA2JMS_VkZuLNQ2xNgTJPi/s320/dove2.jpg" style="-moz-border-radius: 5px; border-radius: 5px; border: 2px #ff4500 inset;" /></a>
</div>
<div style="font-family: eurostile, sans-serif;">
<b>Pt 10 KNOWING AND USING WHAT GOD HAS SAID/YOUR BIBLE</b><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #446666; font-style: italic;">"Ave Christus, morituri te salutamus!"</span></div>
<br />
<span style="font-family: lucida handwriting,sans-serif; font-size: large; font-weight: bold;">A</span> quick review on what has been discussed;
<br />
<ol><b>
<li>Satan questions God's word</li>
<li>Eve responds by misquoting God (the reason why is unclear).</li>
<li>Adam does not do his job.</li>
<li>Eve listens to the serpent rather than her husband or God.</li>
<li>Eve chooses to sin.</li>
<li>Adam listens to his wife rather than God.</li>
<li>Adam chooses to sin.</li>
<li>We are all responsible for our own relationship with God.</li>
<li>We are all responsible for our own knowledge of God's Word.</li>
<li>Knowing, properly interpreting and using God's word in our lives safeguards our relationship with Him.</li>
</b></ol>
<span style="font-family: lucida handwriting,sans-serif; font-size: large; font-weight: bold;">I</span> n the last <a href="http://hopefully-onesimus.blogspot.com/2011/09/pt9-knowing-and-using-what-god-has.html">post</a> four things that help us know, properly interpret and use God's word in our lives were briefly mentioned, they are;
<ol>
<b>
<li>His Word</li>
<li>His Spirit</li>
<li>Prayer</li>
<li>Other believers</li>
</b>
</ol>
<span style="font-family: lucida handwriting,sans-serif; font-size: large; font-weight: bold;">L</span> ooking at each of these will help us to use them in our lives;
<ol>
<b>
<li>His Word - it is best to read, study and interpret God's word (scripture/the Bible) as a whole and in context with the rest of what is said in scripture. Scripture should be used to interpret it self.</li>
<li>His Spirit - it is best to read, study and interpret scripture with the guidance of God's Holy Spirit as opposed to the wisdom of man.</li>
<li>Prayer - it is best to read, study and interpret scripture with prayer before, during and after our time in God's word.</li>
<li>Other believers - it is best to have other true believers around us to help us with reading, studying and interpreting God's word. God knows we are fallible humans and so He has provided others for checks and balances.</li>
</b>
</ol>
<span style="font-family: lucida handwriting,sans-serif; font-size: large; font-weight: bold;">I</span> f we compare and contrast the confrontation between Eve and the serpent in Genesis 3:1-3;
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"Now the serpent was more cunning than any beast of the field which the LORD God had made. And he said to the woman, 'Has God indeed said, "You shall not eat of every tree of the garden"?' And the woman said to the serpent, 'We may eat the fruit of the trees of the garden; but of the fruit of the tree which is in the midst of the garden, God has said, "You shall not eat it, nor shall you touch it, lest you die."’” (Genesis 3:1-3/NKJV)
</div>
<br />
with another confrontation much, much later in the Bible (Matthew 4:1-11)*
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"Then Jesus was led up by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil. And when He had fasted forty days and forty nights, afterward He was hungry. Now when the tempter came to Him, he said, “If You are the Son of God, command that these stones become bread.” But He answered and said, “It is written, ‘Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God.’” Then the devil took Him up into the holy city, set Him on the pinnacle of the temple, and said to Him, “If You are the Son of God, throw Yourself down. For it is written: ‘ He shall give His angels charge over you,’ and, ‘ In their hands they shall bear you up, lest you dash your foot against a stone.’"'Jesus said to him, “It is written again, ‘You shall not tempt the LORD your God.’” Again, the devil took Him up on an exceedingly high mountain, and showed Him all the kingdoms of the world and their glory. And he said to Him, “All these things I will give You if You will fall down and worship me.” Then Jesus said to him, “Away with you, Satan! For it is written, ‘You shall worship the LORD your God, and Him only you shall serve.’” Then the devil left Him, and behold, angels came and ministered to Him. (Matthew 4:1-11/NKJV)
</div>
<br />
not only do we see the results are quite different, but we learn a lot about how to use the word of God in our lives and consequently how to overcome our common enemy (Satan).
<br />
<span style="font-family: lucida handwriting,sans-serif; font-size: large; font-weight: bold;">I</span> n both cases we see the serpent challenges God's words;
<br />
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"...And he said to the woman, '<u><i>Has God indeed said</i></u>,...'" (Genesis 3:1b/NKJV)
<br />
"Now when the tempter came to Him, he said, “<u><i>If You are the Son of God</i></u>,...(Matthew 4:3/NKJV)
<br />
"Then the devil took Him up into the holy city, set Him on the pinnacle of the temple, and said to Him, '<u><i>If You are the Son of God</i></u>,...'" (Matthew 4:5/NKJV)
</div>
<br />
<span style="font-family: lucida handwriting,sans-serif; font-size: large; font-weight: bold;">I</span> n the first instance we see (by looking at the passage, the <u><i><b>scriptures around it, and related to it</b></i></u>) Satan's question was patently absurd, and was plainly meant to challenge the very words spoken to both Adam <u><i><b>and Eve</b></i></u> in Genesis 1; <br />
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"So God created man in His own image; in the image of God He created him; <u><i><b>male and female</b></i></u> He created <i><u><b>them</b></u></i>. Then God blessed <i><u><b>them</b></u></i>, and God <i><u><b>said to them</b></u></i>, 'Be fruitful and multiply; fill the earth and subdue it; have dominion over the fish of the sea, over the birds of the air, and over every living thing that moves on the earth.' And God said, 'See, I have given you every herb that yields seed which is on the face of all the earth, and every tree whose fruit yields seed; <i><u><b>to you it shall be for food</b></u></i>. Also, to every beast of the earth, to every bird of the air, and to everything that creeps on the earth, in which there is life, <i><u><b>I have given every green herb for food</b></u></i>'; and it was so. (Genesis 1:27-30).
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<span style="font-family: lucida handwriting,sans-serif; font-size: large; font-weight: bold;">I</span> n the second instance we see that Satan not only challenged God's words once (Matthew 4:3), but twice (Matthew 4:5). However, Jesus does not even address this challenge as he knows what happened, and what He heard after He was baptized by John in Matthew 3;
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"When He had been baptized, Jesus came up immediately from the water; and behold, <u><i>the heavens were opened to Him, and He saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and alighting upon Him. And suddenly a voice came from heaven, saying, 'This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.</i></u>'" (Matthew 3:16-17/NKJV)
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*<span style="font-family: lucida handwriting,sans-serif; font-weight: bold;">NOTE</span>: How the confrontation ends in Matthew 4 shows the true nature of what Satan is all about, i.e by challenging God's word Satan challenges everything about God. For more information on Matthew 4:1-11 see <a href="http://www.christnotes.org/commentary.php?b=40&c=4&com=mhc">here</a>, and <a href="http://www.christnotes.org/commentary.php?b=40&c=4&com=wes">here</a>.
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<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #446666; font-style: italic;">"Simul iustus et peccator"</span>*<br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">*Martin Luther</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkq7BhOCxGDhtpyAq6r9AW2Pil58NR-hrrkYVAULGzkDEC1tIM5RDHhO04iNzWZYhyaiSW0NyQM2GTIDIjXgOOohlbNu0WyHtvj8oRoxSxe4ysFEl7_neuzZXCyxEKg0osBocy/s1600-h/mangren.png"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5429180750783427682" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkq7BhOCxGDhtpyAq6r9AW2Pil58NR-hrrkYVAULGzkDEC1tIM5RDHhO04iNzWZYhyaiSW0NyQM2GTIDIjXgOOohlbNu0WyHtvj8oRoxSxe4ysFEl7_neuzZXCyxEKg0osBocy/s320/mangren.png" style="border: medium none; cursor: pointer; float: right; height: 26px; margin: -10px 30px 10px -30px; width: 48px;" /></a><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">
scripture sources;
<br />
<a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/">Bible Gateway</a>
<br />
image source;
<br />
<a href="http://zbyam.wordpress.com/2010/08/02/calling-this-is-my-son/">dove</a>
</span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27640109.post-69326617453006517642011-10-30T07:23:00.000-07:002011-10-30T07:23:13.710-07:00<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFhADahrkD29pS7p74CY14MldeChNWE9-qD1jPr70HIanZEn3VRxavPDssUx9T4bXzc4PXy_XwISELpwQZe57ythEjU9VqgCuOPdOsxU1nXU6yCFat3o8hG8e0iqyJnF8ZbxSP/s1600/phoenix_nebula2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="235" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFhADahrkD29pS7p74CY14MldeChNWE9-qD1jPr70HIanZEn3VRxavPDssUx9T4bXzc4PXy_XwISELpwQZe57ythEjU9VqgCuOPdOsxU1nXU6yCFat3o8hG8e0iqyJnF8ZbxSP/s320/phoenix_nebula2.jpg" style="-moz-border-radius: 5px; border-radius: 5px; border: 2px #ff4500 inset;" width="320" /></a>
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Art by <a href="http://gallery.artofgregmartin.com/">Greg Martin</a>
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<b>HOLY, HOLY, HOLY or Grace (Pt6)</b><br />
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<span style="color: #446666; font-style: italic;">"Ave Christus, morituri te salutamus!"</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: lucida handwriting,sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b> A</b></span> t this point it is best to stop and look a little closer at what is meant by the holiness of God as I find our natural inclination is to view the term "holy" or "holiness" as simply referring to the sinless, pure nature of God. However, we must remember that is only one facet of the term "holy" and "holiness" when referring to God. So when the terms holy or holiness are used to describe God, just what is meant? In his on line <a href="http://bible.org/seriespage/holiness-god">study</a> Bob Deffinbaugh states the following;
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<blockquote style="color: black;">
"The term 'holy' is often understood in its contemporary usage rather than its true meaning in the Scriptures. For this reason, our study must begin by reviewing several dimensions of the definition of holiness.
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<ol>
<b>
<li>To be holy is to be distinct, separate, in a class by oneself. As Sproul puts it:</li>
</b>
</ol>
'The primary meaning of holy is "separate." It comes from an ancient word that meant, "to cut," or "to separate." Perhaps even more accurate would be the phrase "a cut above something." When we find a garment or another piece of merchandise that is outstanding, that has a superior excellence, we use the expression that it is "a cut above the rest."' <b>(R. C. Sproul, <a href="http://www.ligonier.org/store/the-holiness-of-god-paperback/">The Holiness of God</a> [Wheaton, Illinois: Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., 1985], p. 54.)</b>
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This means that the one who is holy is uniquely holy, with no rivals or competition.
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<b>'<i><u>When the Bible calls God holy it means primarily that God is transcendentally separate. He is so far above and beyond us that He seems almost totally foreign to us. To be holy is to be ‘other,’ to be different in a special way</u></i></b> [emphasis mine]. The same basic meaning is used when the word holy is applied to earthly things.' <b>(<a href="http://www.ligonier.org/store/the-holiness-of-god-paperback/">Ibid</a> p.55)</b>
</blockquote>
<span style="font-family: lucida handwriting,sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b> A</b></span> gain, scripture plainly points out what is emphasized in the above quotation;
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"<u><i>No one is holy like the LORD, for there is none besides You</i></u>, nor is there any rock like our God." (1 Samuel 2:2/NKJV)
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<span style="font-family: lucida handwriting,sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b> T</b></span> his is not to exclude the moral purity of God, rather moral purity is only a part of God's holiness. Once more the <a href="http://bible.org/seriespage/holiness-god">study</a> by Deffinbaugh states it best; <b>"Purity is not excluded from the idea of the holy; it is contained within it."</b> Gods attributes are based in holiness, everything about God is unlike man (which makes sense as he is the Creator and we are the created). So when we think of Gods love we must remember His love is holy. Additionally, when we think of His kindness, mercy, grace, justice, wisdom and judgement, we must remember all of these are holy. This is the third point made by Deffinbaugh in his <a href="http://bible.org/seriespage/holiness-god">study</a>;
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<blockquote style="color: black;">
<b>"3. For God to be holy is for Him to be holy in relation to every
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aspect of His nature and character.</b>
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'When we use the word holy to describe God, we face another problem. We often describe God by compiling a list of qualities or characteristics that we call attributes. We say that God is a spirit, that He knows everything, that He is loving, just, merciful, gracious, and so on. The tendency is to add the idea of the holy to this long list of attributes as one attribute among many. But when the word holy is applied to God, it does not signify one single attribute. On the contrary, God is called holy in a general sense. The word is used as a synonym for his deity. That is, the word holy calls attention to all that God is. It reminds us that His love is holy love, his justice is holy justice, his mercy is holy mercy, his knowledge is holy knowledge, his spirit is holy spirit.'"<b>(<a href="http://www.ligonier.org/store/the-holiness-of-god-paperback/">Ibid</a> p.57)</b></blockquote>
<span style="font-family: lucida handwriting,sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b> S</b></span> o everything about God is holy, i.e. so far above us, so far set apart from us. In the Old Testament Isaiah speaks for God and states;
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"For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are <u><i>My ways higher than your ways, and My thoughts than your thoughts</i></u>." (Isaiah 55:9/NKJV)
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and Paul also states in the New Testament;
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"<u><i>For the wisdom of this world is foolishness with God..."</i></u> (1 Corinthians 3: 19a/NKJV)
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<span style="font-family: lucida handwriting,sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b> I</b></span> t is this realization that causes so many to respond as they do when coming into God's presence. It is why Job has to get on his face and say;
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"Therefore I have uttered what I did not understand, things too wonderful for me, which I did not know...Therefore I abhor myself, and repent in dust and ashes." (Job 42: 3, 6/NKJV)</div>
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<span style="font-family: lucida handwriting,sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b> I</b></span> t is why Isaiah exclaims he is "undone"<span style="font-family: tempus sans itc, sans-serif; font-weight: bold;">(Isaiah 6:5)</span>, it is why Joshua falls on his face when confronted by the captain of the Lord of Hosts <span style="font-family: tempus sans itc, sans-serif; font-weight: bold;">(Joshua 5:14)</span>, it is why the angels have to tell Zacharias, Mary and the shepherds to "not be afraid" <span style="font-family: tempus sans itc, sans-serif; font-weight: bold;">(Luke 1:18, Luke 1:30, Luke 2:9-10)</span>, it is why those with Peter were astonished, and it is why Peter falls down in Luke 5.<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #446666; font-style: italic;">"Simul iustus et peccator"</span>*<br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">*Martin Luther</span>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkq7BhOCxGDhtpyAq6r9AW2Pil58NR-hrrkYVAULGzkDEC1tIM5RDHhO04iNzWZYhyaiSW0NyQM2GTIDIjXgOOohlbNu0WyHtvj8oRoxSxe4ysFEl7_neuzZXCyxEKg0osBocy/s1600-h/mangren.png"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5429180750783427682" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkq7BhOCxGDhtpyAq6r9AW2Pil58NR-hrrkYVAULGzkDEC1tIM5RDHhO04iNzWZYhyaiSW0NyQM2GTIDIjXgOOohlbNu0WyHtvj8oRoxSxe4ysFEl7_neuzZXCyxEKg0osBocy/s320/mangren.png" style="border: medium none; cursor: pointer; float: right; height: 26px; margin: -10px 30px 10px -30px; width: 48px;" /></a><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">
scripture sources;
<br />
<a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/">Bible Gateway</a>
<br />
image source;
<br />
<a href="http://pixdaus.com/single.php?id=148386">Phoenix Nebula</a>
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original art by <a href="http://gallery.artofgregmartin.com/">Greg Martin</a>
</span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27640109.post-71298788315206945642011-10-23T06:11:00.000-07:002011-10-23T06:11:34.291-07:00<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFhADahrkD29pS7p74CY14MldeChNWE9-qD1jPr70HIanZEn3VRxavPDssUx9T4bXzc4PXy_XwISELpwQZe57ythEjU9VqgCuOPdOsxU1nXU6yCFat3o8hG8e0iqyJnF8ZbxSP/s1600/phoenix_nebula2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="235" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFhADahrkD29pS7p74CY14MldeChNWE9-qD1jPr70HIanZEn3VRxavPDssUx9T4bXzc4PXy_XwISELpwQZe57ythEjU9VqgCuOPdOsxU1nXU6yCFat3o8hG8e0iqyJnF8ZbxSP/s320/phoenix_nebula2.jpg" style="-moz-border-radius: 5px; border-radius: 5px; border: 2px #ff4500 inset;" width="320" /></a>
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<div style="font-size: x-small; text-align: center;">
Art by <a href="http://gallery.artofgregmartin.com/">Greg Martin</a>
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<b>HOLY, HOLY, HOLY (or GRACE Pt 5)</b><br />
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<span style="color: #446666; font-style: italic;">"Ave Christus, morituri te salutamus!"</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: lucida handwriting,sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b> I</b></span> n <a href="http://hopefully-onesimus.blogspot.com/2011/10/god-creator-of-all-that-is-seen-and.html">GRACE Pt 4</a> we briefly discussed the "Who?" which answered one of the foundational truths we see/learn in Luke 5:1-11. Now we will discuss the second question "What?", i.e. what is God like, what qualities and/or characteristics does he possess and manifest?. This second question needs to be answered so we can lay a solid foundation for anything else we see/learn in this passage. In my previous post that question is first answered with one word, "Holy"<b>*</b>. While it is true God possesses many other qualities/characteristics, and it is true we learn of many of His other characteristics in Luke 5: 1-11, it is also true this one quality is foundational to all the others. It is this quality that is the very essence of God. So where do we find it in Luke 5:1-11?
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"When Simon Peter saw <i>it,</i> <u><i>he fell down at Jesus’ knees, saying, 'Depart from me, for I am a sinful man, O Lord!</i></u>'”. <u><i>For he and all who were with him were astonished</i></u> at the catch of fish which they had taken; and so also were James and John, the sons of Zebedee, who were partners with Simon. And Jesus said to Simon, '<u><i>Do not be afraid</i></u>....' (Luke 5:8-10/NKJV)
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<span style="font-family: lucida handwriting,sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b> P</b></span> eter falls before Christ and states; <span style=" font-family: tempus sans itc, sans-serif; font-weight: bold;">"Depart from me, for I am sinful man, O Lord."</span>, because he recognizes (at this time) Jesus is not just a rabbi to be highly respected, but the representative of God. Consequently, Peter understands Jesus has the power and authority of God and God's very presence is with Him. This in turn brings about the realization (by Peter) of the holiness of God. His response is more fully discussed <a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/resources/commentaries/IVP-NT/Luke/Gathering-Disciples">here</a>, <a href="http://calvin.biblecommenter.com/luke/5.htm">here</a>, and also in a <a href="http://hopefully-onesimus.blogspot.com/2011/08/grace-pt2-ave-christus-morituri-te.html">previous post</a>. Peters response is reflective of the children of Israel in Exodus 34 when Moses had to place a veil over his face;
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"Now it was so, when Moses came down from Mount Sinai (and the two tablets of the Testimony were in Moses’ hand when he came down from the mountain), that Moses did not know that the skin of his face shone while he talked with Him. So when Aaron and all the children of Israel saw Moses, behold, the skin of his face shone, <u><i>and they were afraid to come near him.</i></u>" (Exodus 34: 29-30/NKJV)
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Paul also mentions the veil of Moses in 2 Corinthians;
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"...unlike Moses, who put a veil over his face so that the children of Israel could not look steadily at the end of what was passing away."(2 Corinthians 3:13/NKJV)</div>
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-for more information on the veil over Moses face see <a href="http://www.christnotes.org/commentary.php?com=wes&b=2&c=34">here</a>, <a href="http://www.christnotes.org/commentary.php?com=mhc&b=2&c=34">here</a> and <a href="http://www.biblestudytools.com/commentaries/jamieson-fausset-brown/exodus/exodus-34.html">here</a>. However, there is a difference in how the presence of God was manifested with Moses and with Christ. It is obvious that Jesus (nor is it recorded anywhere in scripture) did not "shine" as did Moses, rather the presence of God was manifested in so many other ways in Christs life. This makes total sense as Jesus is God, while Moses is/was not. Finally, the holiness of God is not only shown over and over in scripture, but also <b><u><i>emphasized</i></u></b> over and over in scripture;
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"Then He said, 'Do not draw near this place. Take your sandals off your feet, for the place where you stand is <u><i>holy</i></u> ground.'" (Exodus 3:5/NKJV)
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"Who is like You, O LORD, among the gods? Who is like You, glorious in <u><i>holiness</i></u>,..." (Exodus 15:11/NKJV)
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"For I am the LORD your God. You shall therefore consecrate yourselves, and you shall be holy; <u><i>for I am holy</i></u>...You shall therefore be holy, <u><i>for I am holy</i></u>. " (Leviticus 11:44-45/NKJV - see also Leviticus 19:2, 20:7)
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"No one is <u><i>holy</i></u> like the LORD,..." (1 Samuel 2:2a/NKJV)
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"The LORD reigns; let the peoples tremble! He dwells between the cherubim; let the earth be moved! The LORD is great in Zion, and He is high above all the peoples. Let them praise Your great and awesome name—He is <u><i>holy</i></u>." (Psalm 99:1-3/NKJV)
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"In the year that King Uzziah died, I saw the Lord sitting on a throne, high and lifted up, and the train of His robe filled the temple. Above it stood seraphim; each one had six wings: with two he covered his face, with two he covered his feet, and with two he flew. And one cried to another and said: '<u><i>Holy, holy, holy</i></u> is the LORD of hosts; the whole earth is full of His glory!' (Isaiah 6:1-3/NKJV)
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"...but as He who called you is <u><i>holy</i></u>, you also be holy in all your conduct, because it is written, 'Be holy, for <u><i>I am holy</i></u>.'” (1 Peter 1:15-16/NKJV)
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"Who shall not fear You, O Lord, and glorify Your name? For <u><i>You alone are holy</i></u>...." (Revelation 15:4/NKJV)
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<span style="font-family: lucida handwriting,sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b> A</b></span> bove is a brief list of some scriptures which show God's holiness and as in the case of God - the Creator of all, there are many scriptures which show this quality of God. In fact there are too many to be listed here. I would encourage anyone wanting to study this quality to begin by looking up the scriptures about God's holiness by using the appropriate <a href="http://www.christianbook.com/Christian/Books/easy_find?Ntt=strongs+concordance&N=0&Ntk=keywords&kw=strong%27s%20exhaustive%20concordance&event=PPCSRC&p=1018818&cm_mmc=Google-_-Academic-_-strongs%20concordance-_-strong%27s%20exhaustive%20concordance&gclid=CPnu0dbh76sCFQpggwodjWgaCw">books</a>** and also using reliable <a href="http://www.ligonier.org/store/the-holiness-of-god-paperback/">sources</a>**.
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<b><span style="font-family: lucida handwriting,sans-serif;">*NOTE:</span></b> for an excellent article on the holiness of God see <a href="http://bible.org/seriespage/holiness-god">here</a>.
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<b><span style="font-family: lucida handwriting,sans-serif;">**NOTE:</span></b> other sources on the holiness of God;
<ul>
<li><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Knowledge-Holy-Attributes-Meaning-Christian/dp/0060684127/ref=pd_sim_b1/188-7726030-8841630">more books</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.godtube.com/watch/?v=DW6WKWNX">videos</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=06warq1dSAw">more videos</a></li>
</ul>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #446666; font-style: italic;">"Simul iustus et peccator"</span>*<br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">*Martin Luther</span></div>
</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkq7BhOCxGDhtpyAq6r9AW2Pil58NR-hrrkYVAULGzkDEC1tIM5RDHhO04iNzWZYhyaiSW0NyQM2GTIDIjXgOOohlbNu0WyHtvj8oRoxSxe4ysFEl7_neuzZXCyxEKg0osBocy/s1600-h/mangren.png"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5429180750783427682" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkq7BhOCxGDhtpyAq6r9AW2Pil58NR-hrrkYVAULGzkDEC1tIM5RDHhO04iNzWZYhyaiSW0NyQM2GTIDIjXgOOohlbNu0WyHtvj8oRoxSxe4ysFEl7_neuzZXCyxEKg0osBocy/s320/mangren.png" style="border: medium none; cursor: pointer; float: right; height: 26px; margin: -10px 30px 10px -30px; width: 48px;" /></a><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">
scripture sources;
<br />
<a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/">Bible Gateway</a>
<br />
image source;
<br />
<a href="http://pixdaus.com/single.php?id=148386">Phoenix Nebula</a>
<br />
original art by <a href="http://gallery.artofgregmartin.com/">Greg Martin</a>
</span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27640109.post-45500620477681056462011-10-16T07:34:00.000-07:002011-10-16T07:34:57.720-07:00<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGNA_tIMsUpnK8HPMMcipU-G2vvQA-HRaT-cfj-1-EoIEznQaf5PqN93kp3tRYp7LEylw-s1dAAsbbrcgfEmejtDfHMAtMS6KACsADZowJFtKtrx_7skMIuJYrwpCSiASKYib2/s1600/fish1.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="241" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGNA_tIMsUpnK8HPMMcipU-G2vvQA-HRaT-cfj-1-EoIEznQaf5PqN93kp3tRYp7LEylw-s1dAAsbbrcgfEmejtDfHMAtMS6KACsADZowJFtKtrx_7skMIuJYrwpCSiASKYib2/s1600/fish1.jpg" style="-moz-border-radius: 5px; border-radius: 5px; border: 2px #ff4500 inset;" /></a>
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<div style="font-family: eurostile, sans-serif;">
<b>GOD - CREATOR OF ALL THAT IS SEEN AND UNSEEN or (Grace - Pt4)</b><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #446666; font-style: italic;">"Ave Christus, morituri te salutamus!"</span></div>
<br />
<span style="font-family: lucida handwriting,sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b> W</b></span> e were looking at Luke 5:1-11 starting with the responses of Jesus and Peter, but the responses of Peter and Jesus are only the beginning, if we look at the whole passage we learn two things;
<br />
<ol style="font-weight: bold;">
<li>who and what God really is</li>
<li>who and what we really are</li>
</ol>
<span style="font-family: lucida handwriting,sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b> F</b></span> urthermore if we look at other parts of scripture we get a better understanding of both 1 and 2 above (as well as Luke 5:1-11). So let us begin by looking at number 1 and asking these questions - who and what?* There are two foundational truths in Luke 5: 1-11 which answer these questions;
<br />
<ol style="font-weight: bold;">
<li>Who? = God - Creator of Everything</li>
<li>What? = God is holy</li>
</ol>
<span style="font-family: lucida handwriting,sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b> J</b></span> ust as there are many other things to see and learn about God in the rest of scripture, so also in this passage - e.g. God is gracious, God is the initiator, God is kind, God is wise, God is the provider, God is almighty, etc. - but it is best to start with these two as they are the foundation to everything else we see and learn from Luke 5: 1-11. Furthermore, these two go hand in hand, however let's back up and look at where these are shown in Luke 5: 1-11. The first - God - Creator of all - is demonstrated in verses 4 - 7 and 9 - 10a;
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<div style="-moz-border-radius: 5px; border-radius: 5px; border: solid 1px #000000; font-family: tempus sans itc, sans-serif; font-weight: bold; padding: 5px 3px 5px 5px;">
"When He had stopped speaking, He said to Simon, 'Launch out into the deep and let down your nets for a catch.' But Simon answered and said to Him, 'Master, we have toiled all night and caught nothing; nevertheless at Your word I will let down the net.' And when they had done this, they caught a great number of fish, and their net was breaking. So they signaled to their partners in the other boat to come and help them. And they came and filled both the boats, so that they began to sink." (Luke 5:4-7/NKJV)
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<br />
"For he and all who were with him were astonished at the catch of fish which they had taken; and so also were James and John, the sons of Zebedee, who were partners with Simon." (Luke 5:9-10a/NKJV)
</div>
<span style="font-family: lucida handwriting,sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b> G</b></span> od - Creator of everything is obviously supported from the beginning of scripture;
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<div style="-moz-border-radius: 5px; border-radius: 5px; border: solid 1px #000000; font-family: tempus sans itc, sans-serif; font-weight: bold; padding: 5px 3px 5px 5px;">
"In the beginning <i><u>God created</u></i> the heavens and the earth." (Genesis 1:1/NKJV)
</div>
and is supported through out scripture;
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<div style="-moz-border-radius: 5px; border-radius: 5px; border: solid 1px #000000; font-family: tempus sans itc, sans-serif; font-weight: bold; padding: 5px 3px 5px 5px;">
"So the LORD said to him, 'Who has made man’s mouth? Or who makes the mute, the deaf, the seeing, or the blind? Have not I, the LORD?" (Exodus 4:11/NKJV)
<br />
<br />
"Then Joshua spoke to the LORD...and he said in the sight of Israel: 'Sun, stand still over Gibeon; and Moon, in the Valley of Aijalon.' So the sun stood still, and the moon stopped,..." (Joshua 10:12, 13a/NKJV)
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<br />
"Then the LORD answered Job out of the whirlwind, and said:...'Where were you when I laid the foundations of the earth?'" (Job 38:1,4a/NKJV)
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<br />
"O LORD, how manifold are Your works! In wisdom You have made them all. The earth is full of Your possessions—" (Psalm 104:24/NKJV)
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<br />
The earth is the LORD’s, and all its fullness, the world and those who dwell therein. For He has founded it upon the seas, and established it upon the waters. (Psalm 24:1/NKJV)
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<br />
"Thus says the LORD, your Redeemer, and He who formed you from the womb: 'I am the LORD, who makes all things, who stretches out the heavens all alone, who spreads abroad the earth by Myself;'..." (Isaiah 44:24/NKJV)
<br />
<br />
"And He answered and said to them, 'Have you not read that He who made them at the beginning "made them male and female",...'" (Matthew 19:4a/NKJV see also Mark 10:6)
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<br />
"And: 'You, LORD, in the beginning laid the foundation of the earth, and the heavens are the work of Your hands.'" (Hebrews 1:10/NKJV)
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<br />
"By faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the word of God, so that the things which are seen were not made of things which are visible." (Hebrews 11:3/NKJV)
</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOgtXFkw8Em_w4P4KaTIcwI8Me0JQZJWv-RR0sRuYLh6bG0r7AQ64-qK6IBUF-7NPdvMHFUSOK98NrdQfzIlNUXuWhyphenhyphenCUmJTFMXuVp2ddVNSOdhoY8xKGdh7NVx_wJylzkbXJ3/s1600/dore_creation_of_light2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOgtXFkw8Em_w4P4KaTIcwI8Me0JQZJWv-RR0sRuYLh6bG0r7AQ64-qK6IBUF-7NPdvMHFUSOK98NrdQfzIlNUXuWhyphenhyphenCUmJTFMXuVp2ddVNSOdhoY8xKGdh7NVx_wJylzkbXJ3/s1600/dore_creation_of_light2.jpg" style="-moz-border-radius: 5px; border-radius: 5px; border: 2px #ff4500 inset; float: right; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" /></a>
There are many, many more scriptures that show God - Creator of all that is seen and unseen. In fact there are too many to be listed here, so let us continue by asking what does all of this have to do with Luke 5:1-11? It is simply this, after seeing the miracle draught of fish Peter and all those with him realized that somehow God is "in the mix" and as Jews they understood that only God, as Creator of all, not only has authority over the sea and everything in it, but also owns the sea and everything in it. Consequently, witnessing (firsthand) the miracle draught of fish means (to them) Jesus has the power and authority of God. It is <a href="http://hopefully-onesimus.blogspot.com/2011/08/grace-pt1-ave-christus-morituri-te.html">one of the things</a> which causes Peter to change and call Jesus "Lord" (i.e treating Christ as the representative of the One True Holy God) as opposed to calling Him "Master" (i.e treating Christ as a respected rabbi/teacher). Furthermore, this response is seen with the others, "For he and all who were with him were <i><b><u>astonished</u></b></i>...and so also were James and John, the sons of Zebedee...". In essence, Peter and all those with Him begin to see Jesus as synonymous with the One True Holy God.
<br />
<span style="font-family: lucida handwriting,sans-serif;"><b>*NOTE;</b></span> For a <u><i><b>very</b></i></u> <u><i><b>brief</b></i></u> explanation of who God is see <a href="http://carm.org/who-is-god">here</a>.
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #446666; font-style: italic;">"Simul iustus et peccator"</span>*<br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">*Martin Luther</span></div>
</div>
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkq7BhOCxGDhtpyAq6r9AW2Pil58NR-hrrkYVAULGzkDEC1tIM5RDHhO04iNzWZYhyaiSW0NyQM2GTIDIjXgOOohlbNu0WyHtvj8oRoxSxe4ysFEl7_neuzZXCyxEKg0osBocy/s1600-h/mangren.png"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5429180750783427682" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkq7BhOCxGDhtpyAq6r9AW2Pil58NR-hrrkYVAULGzkDEC1tIM5RDHhO04iNzWZYhyaiSW0NyQM2GTIDIjXgOOohlbNu0WyHtvj8oRoxSxe4ysFEl7_neuzZXCyxEKg0osBocy/s320/mangren.png" style="border: medium none; cursor: pointer; float: right; height: 26px; margin: -10px 30px 10px -30px; width: 48px;" /></a><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">
<a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/">all bible passages source</a>
<br />
images sources;
<br />
<a href="http://mdbounarotti.tripod.com/bleuelle3.html">bleu elle</a>
<br />
<a href="http://www.kingjamesbibleonline.org/Genesis-Chapter-1/">Creation of Light</a>
</span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27640109.post-28324361779915409642011-10-09T05:24:00.000-07:002011-10-09T05:24:54.057-07:00<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGNA_tIMsUpnK8HPMMcipU-G2vvQA-HRaT-cfj-1-EoIEznQaf5PqN93kp3tRYp7LEylw-s1dAAsbbrcgfEmejtDfHMAtMS6KACsADZowJFtKtrx_7skMIuJYrwpCSiASKYib2/s1600/fish1.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="241" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGNA_tIMsUpnK8HPMMcipU-G2vvQA-HRaT-cfj-1-EoIEznQaf5PqN93kp3tRYp7LEylw-s1dAAsbbrcgfEmejtDfHMAtMS6KACsADZowJFtKtrx_7skMIuJYrwpCSiASKYib2/s1600/fish1.jpg" style="-moz-border-radius: 5px; border-radius: 5px; border: 2px #ff4500 inset;" /></a>
</div>
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<div style="font-family: eurostile, sans-serif;">
<br />
<b>GRACE (Pt3)</b><br />
<span style="font-family: lucida handwriting,sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b> N</b></span> ow let us look at Jesus' response;
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<div style="-moz-border-radius: 5px; border-radius: 5px; border: solid 1px #000000; font-family: tempus sans itc, sans-serif; font-weight: bold; padding: 5px 3px 5px 5px;">
"And Jesus said to Simon, 'Do not be afraid. From now on you will catch men.' " (Luke 5:11/NKJV)
</div>
<span style="font-family: lucida handwriting,sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b> N</b></span> otice Jesus does not debate the second part of Peters statement; "...for I am a sinful man...", Jesus (being God) knows Peters statement is true so he addresses it by reassuring him with the simple statement "Do not be afraid..." This is reflective of what the angel said to the shepherds;
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<div style="-moz-border-radius: 5px; border-radius: 5px; border: solid 1px #000000; font-family: tempus sans itc, sans-serif; font-weight: bold; padding: 5px 3px 5px 5px;">
"Then the angel said to them, '<i><u>Do not be afraid</u></i>, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people.'" (Luke 2:10/NKJV)
</div>
and what the angels said to Zacharias and Mary;
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<div style="-moz-border-radius: 5px; border-radius: 5px; border: solid 1px #000000; font-family: tempus sans itc, sans-serif; font-weight: bold; padding: 5px 3px 5px 5px;">
"But the angel said to him, '<u><i>Do not be afraid</i></u>, Zacharias, for your prayer is heard; and your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son, and you shall call his name John.'" (Luke 1:13/NKJV)
<br />
<br />
"Then the angel said to her, '<u><i>Do not be afraid</i></u>, Mary, for you have found favor with God.'" (Luke 1:30.NKJV)
</div>
although in each of those circumstances the angels obviously were/are not God. However, Jesus is no mere angel, but God in the flesh. Consequently, He goes beyond the outward and sees Peters heart. Jesus knows the first part of Peters statement, "Depart from
me,..." is not a rejection Him (like the scribes and Pharisees) but
rather a response similar to the shepherds, Zacharias, Mary and so many other before Peter (for more
information on Peter's response see <a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/resources/commentaries/IVP-NT/Luke/Gathering-Disciples">here</a>, <a href="http://calvin.biblecommenter.com/luke/5.htm">here</a> and see my <a href="http://hopefully-onesimus.blogspot.com/2011/08/grace-pt2-ave-christus-morituri-te.html">previous post</a>). So Peter "falls on his face" and utters the third part of his statement, "...O Lord." Jesus knows what Peter understands, i.e. when Peter is confronted with his sinfulness Peter cannot stand in the presence of Jesus the representative of the holy, just, righteous and perfect God. Jesus sees Peter has taken his first step towards God, i.e. an honest admission of his own condition and who Jesus truly is. At this point, Jesus recognizes Peters admission that God is with Him and that he is God's representative (later Peter will come to the full revelation that Jesus is the one and only God). However, Jesus not only alleviates Peters fears with the first part of His statement, "Do not be afraid...", but further shows Peter he has nothing to fear by commissioning him, "...from now on you will catch men." and with the commission Jesus shows God's/His great grace, mercy and kindness. Again this is reflective of God calling so many others in scripture;
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<div style="-moz-border-radius: 5px; border-radius: 5px; border: solid 1px #000000; font-family: tempus sans itc, sans-serif; font-weight: bold; padding: 5px 3px 5px 5px;">
And the posts of the door were shaken by the voice of him who cried out, and the house was filled with smoke. <u><i>So I said: 'Woe is me, for I am undone! Because I am a man of unclean lips, and I dwell in the midst of a people of unclean lips; for my eyes have seen the King, The LORD of hosts.' Then one of the seraphim flew to me, having in his hand a live coal which he had taken with the tongs from the altar. And he touched my mouth with it, and said: 'Behold, this has touched your lips; your iniquity is taken away, and your sin purged.' Also I heard the voice of the Lord, saying: 'Whom shall I send, and who will go for Us?' Then I said, 'Here am I! Send me.' And He said, 'Go, and tell this people:'</i></u>..." (Isaiah 6:5-8/NKJV - see also Genesis 17:1ff, Exodus 3:1ff, Ezekiel 1:28-2:9)
</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #446666; font-style: italic;">"Simul iustus et peccator"</span>*<br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">*Martin Luther</span></div>
</div>
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkq7BhOCxGDhtpyAq6r9AW2Pil58NR-hrrkYVAULGzkDEC1tIM5RDHhO04iNzWZYhyaiSW0NyQM2GTIDIjXgOOohlbNu0WyHtvj8oRoxSxe4ysFEl7_neuzZXCyxEKg0osBocy/s1600-h/mangren.png"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5429180750783427682" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkq7BhOCxGDhtpyAq6r9AW2Pil58NR-hrrkYVAULGzkDEC1tIM5RDHhO04iNzWZYhyaiSW0NyQM2GTIDIjXgOOohlbNu0WyHtvj8oRoxSxe4ysFEl7_neuzZXCyxEKg0osBocy/s320/mangren.png" style="border: medium none; cursor: pointer; float: right; height: 26px; margin: -10px 30px 10px -30px; width: 48px;" /></a>
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">image source;<br />
<a href="http://mdbounarotti.tripod.com/bleuelle3.html">bleu elle</a></span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27640109.post-5928099405854087932011-10-02T06:21:00.000-07:002011-10-02T06:21:07.443-07:00<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh24IpzZMXmBU5g0rxWEZVRrpwdVHEQ4I4udqpvJCfhSZ1GxJ7GwgIdlc9iaJBHMYkgm5UCV7SEcHQjW05XjIhNMuefevgMyGQrMpJxe3LN9Um9a5kiuYwHW1eZsRqvxkoXKecI/s1600/dove8.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="234" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh24IpzZMXmBU5g0rxWEZVRrpwdVHEQ4I4udqpvJCfhSZ1GxJ7GwgIdlc9iaJBHMYkgm5UCV7SEcHQjW05XjIhNMuefevgMyGQrMpJxe3LN9Um9a5kiuYwHW1eZsRqvxkoXKecI/s320/dove8.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<div style="font-family: eurostile, sans-serif;">
<span style="font-size: 180%; font-weight: bold;">OCTOBER - FIRST SUNDAY PASSAGE</span><br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #446666; font-style: italic;">"Ave Christus, morituri te salutamus!"</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: eurostile,sans-serif; font-size: large; font-weight: bold;">Romans 1-3<br />
<span style="font-size: small;">(New King James Bible)</span><br />
<br />
Chapter 1
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><u>Greetings</u></span></span><br />
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<div style="-moz-border-radius: 5px; -webkit-radius: 5px; background-image: url('https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipYkGTkwAUcz8RYQ48yUviy-rAJE8amLxMoGZVNR6DuNER8EHhHMwNaQ6MW_XeOFsKV9yPW5ugDi5rjkZbauSWDhZtoq8JDFf_drK3CrKd4ldbYMLZ3rbHrUaubIfESVLee0VX/s320/parchment7.jpg'); border: 2px outset #f5deb3; font-family: papyrus, sans-serif; font-size: 120%; font-weight: bold; padding: 5px 5px 5px 10px; text-align: left;">
<sup><u>1</u></sup> Paul, a bondservant of Jesus Christ, called <i>to be</i> an apostle, separated to the gospel of God
<br />
<sup><u>2</u></sup> which He promised before through His prophets in the Holy Scriptures,
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<sup><u>3</u></sup> concerning His Son Jesus Christ our Lord, who was born of the seed of David according to the flesh,
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<sup><u>4</u></sup> <i>and</i> declared <i>to be</i> the Son of God with power according to the Spirit of holiness, by the resurrection from the dead.
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<sup><u>5</u></sup> Through Him we have received grace and apostleship for obedience to the faith among all nations for His name,
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<sup><u>6</u></sup> among whom you also are the called of Jesus Christ;
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<sup><u>7</u></sup> To all who are in Rome, beloved of God, called <i>to be</i> saints: Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.</div>
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<b><span style="font-size: small;"><u>Desire to Visit Rome</u></span></b><br />
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<div style="-moz-border-radius: 5px; -webkit-radius: 5px; background-image: url('https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipYkGTkwAUcz8RYQ48yUviy-rAJE8amLxMoGZVNR6DuNER8EHhHMwNaQ6MW_XeOFsKV9yPW5ugDi5rjkZbauSWDhZtoq8JDFf_drK3CrKd4ldbYMLZ3rbHrUaubIfESVLee0VX/s320/parchment7.jpg'); border: 2px outset #f5deb3; font-family: papyrus, sans-serif; font-size: 120%; font-weight: bold; padding: 5px 5px 5px 10px; text-align: left;">
<sup><u>8</u></sup> First, I thank my God through Jesus Christ for you all, that your faith is spoken of throughout the whole world.
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<sup><u>9</u></sup> For God is my witness, whom I serve with my spirit in the gospel of His Son, that without ceasing I make mention of you always in my prayers,
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<sup><u>10</u></sup> making request if, by some means, now at last I may find a way in the will of God to come to you.
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<sup><u>11</u></sup> For I long to see you, that I may impart to you some spiritual gift, so that you may be established—
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<sup><u>12</u></sup> that is, that I may be encouraged together with you by the mutual faith both of you and me.
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<sup><u>13</u></sup> Now I do not want you to be unaware, brethren, that I often planned to come to you (but was hindered until now), that I might have some fruit among you also, just as among the other Gentiles.
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<sup><u>14</u></sup> I am a debtor both to Greeks and to barbarians, both to wise and to unwise.
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<sup><u>15</u></sup> So, as much as is in me, <i>I am</i> ready to preach the gospel to you who are in Rome also.
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<br />
<b><span style="font-size: small;"><u>The Just Live By Faith</u></span></b><br />
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<div style="-moz-border-radius: 5px; -webkit-radius: 5px; background-image: url('https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipYkGTkwAUcz8RYQ48yUviy-rAJE8amLxMoGZVNR6DuNER8EHhHMwNaQ6MW_XeOFsKV9yPW5ugDi5rjkZbauSWDhZtoq8JDFf_drK3CrKd4ldbYMLZ3rbHrUaubIfESVLee0VX/s320/parchment7.jpg'); border: 2px outset #f5deb3; font-family: papyrus, sans-serif; font-size: 120%; font-weight: bold; padding: 5px 5px 5px 10px; text-align: left;">
<sup><u>16</u></sup> For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ, for it is the power of God to salvation for everyone who believes, for the Jew first and also for the Greek.
<br />
<sup><u>17</u></sup> For in it the righteousness of God is revealed from faith to faith; as it is written, <i> “The just shall live by faith.”</i>
</div>
<br />
<b><span style="font-size: small;"><u>God's Wrath on Unrighteousness</u></span></b><br />
<br />
<div style="-moz-border-radius: 5px; -webkit-radius: 5px; background-image: url('https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipYkGTkwAUcz8RYQ48yUviy-rAJE8amLxMoGZVNR6DuNER8EHhHMwNaQ6MW_XeOFsKV9yPW5ugDi5rjkZbauSWDhZtoq8JDFf_drK3CrKd4ldbYMLZ3rbHrUaubIfESVLee0VX/s320/parchment7.jpg'); border: 2px outset #f5deb3; font-family: papyrus, sans-serif; font-size: 120%; font-weight: bold; padding: 5px 5px 5px 10px; text-align: left;">
<sup><u>18</u></sup> For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who suppress the truth in unrighteousness,
<br />
<sup><u>19</u></sup> because what may be known of God is manifest in them, for God has shown <i>it</i> to them.
<br />
<sup><u>20</u></sup> For since the creation of the world His invisible <i>attributes</i> are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, <i>even</i> His eternal power and Godhead, so that they are without excuse,
<br />
<sup><u>21</u></sup> because, although they knew God, they did not glorify <i>Him</i> as God, nor were thankful, but became futile in their thoughts, and their foolish hearts were darkened.
<br />
<sup><u>22</u></sup> Professing to be wise, they became fools,
<br />
<sup><u>23</u></sup> and changed the glory of the incorruptible God into an image made like corruptible man—and birds and four-footed animals and creeping things.
<br />
<sup><u>24</u></sup> Therefore God also gave them up to uncleanness, in the lusts of their hearts, to dishonor their bodies among themselves,
<br />
<sup><u>25</u></sup> who exchanged the truth of God for the lie, and worshiped and served
the creature rather than the Creator, who is blessed forever. Amen.
<br />
<sup><u>26</u></sup> For this reason God gave them up to vile passions. For even their women exchanged the natural use for what is against nature.
<br />
<sup><u>27</u></sup> Likewise also the men, leaving the natural use of the woman, burned in their lust for one another, men with men committing what is shameful, and receiving in themselves the penalty of their error which was due.
<br />
<sup><u>28</u></sup> And even as they did not like to retain God in <i>their</i> knowledge, God gave them over to a debased mind, to do those things which are not fitting;
<br />
<sup><u>29</u></sup> being filled with all unrighteousness, sexual immorality, wickedness, covetousness, maliciousness; full of envy, murder, strife, deceit, evil-mindedness; <i>they are</i> whisperers,
<br />
<sup><u>30</u></sup> backbiters, haters of God, violent, proud, boasters, inventors of evil things, disobedient to parents,
<br />
<sup><u>31</u></sup> undiscerning, untrustworthy, unloving, unforgiving, unmerciful;
<br />
<sup><u>32</u></sup> who, knowing the righteous judgment of God, that those who practice such things are deserving of death, not only do the same but also approve of those who practice them.
</div>
<br />
<span style="font-family: eurostile,sans-serif; font-size: large; font-weight: bold;">Chapter 2</span>
<br />
<u><b><span style="font-size: small;">God's Righteous Judgement</span></b></u><br />
<br />
<div style="-moz-border-radius: 5px; -webkit-radius: 5px; background-image: url('https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipYkGTkwAUcz8RYQ48yUviy-rAJE8amLxMoGZVNR6DuNER8EHhHMwNaQ6MW_XeOFsKV9yPW5ugDi5rjkZbauSWDhZtoq8JDFf_drK3CrKd4ldbYMLZ3rbHrUaubIfESVLee0VX/s320/parchment7.jpg'); border: 2px outset #f5deb3; font-family: papyrus, sans-serif; font-size: 120%; font-weight: bold; padding: 5px 5px 5px 10px; text-align: left;">
<sup><u>1</u></sup> Therefore you are inexcusable, O man, whoever you are who judge, for in whatever you judge another you condemn yourself; for you who judge practice the same things.
<br />
<sup><u>2</u></sup> But we know that the judgment of God is according to truth against those who practice such things.
<br />
<sup><u>3</u></sup> And do you think this, O man, you who judge those practicing such things, and doing the same, that you will escape the judgment of God?
<br />
<sup><u>4</u></sup> Or do you despise the riches of His goodness, forbearance, and longsuffering, not knowing that the goodness of God leads you to repentance?
<br />
<sup><u>5</u></sup> But in accordance with your hardness and your impenitent heart you are treasuring up for yourself wrath in the day of wrath and revelation of the righteous judgment of God,
<br />
<sup><u>6</u></sup> who <i> “will render to each one according to his deeds”</i>:
<br />
<sup><u>7</u></sup> eternal life to those who by patient continuance in doing good seek for glory, honor, and immortality;
<br />
<sup><u>8</u></sup> but to those who are self-seeking and do not obey the truth, but obey unrighteousness—indignation and wrath,
<br />
<sup><u>9</u></sup> tribulation and anguish, on every soul of man who does evil, of the Jew first and also of the Greek;
<br />
<sup><u>10</u></sup> but glory, honor, and peace to everyone who works what is good, to the Jew first and also to the Greek.
<br />
<sup><u>11</u></sup> For there is no partiality with God.
<br />
<sup><u>12</u></sup> For as many as have sinned without law will also perish without law, and as many as have sinned in the law will be judged by the law
<br />
<sup><u>13</u></sup> (for not the hearers of the law <i>are</i> just in the sight of God, but the doers of the law will be justified;
<br />
<sup><u>14</u></sup> for when Gentiles, who do not have the law, by nature do the things in the law, these, although not having the law, are a law to themselves,
<br />
<sup><u>15</u></sup> who show the work of the law written in their hearts, their conscience also bearing witness, and between themselves <i>their</i> thoughts accusing or else excusing <i>them</i>)
<br />
<sup><u>16</u></sup> in the day when God will judge the secrets of men by Jesus Christ, according to my gospel.</div>
<br />
<b><span style="font-size: small;"><u>The Jews Guilty as the Gentiles</u></span></b><br />
<br />
<div style="-moz-border-radius: 5px; -webkit-radius: 5px; background-image: url('https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipYkGTkwAUcz8RYQ48yUviy-rAJE8amLxMoGZVNR6DuNER8EHhHMwNaQ6MW_XeOFsKV9yPW5ugDi5rjkZbauSWDhZtoq8JDFf_drK3CrKd4ldbYMLZ3rbHrUaubIfESVLee0VX/s320/parchment7.jpg'); border: 2px outset #f5deb3; font-family: papyrus, sans-serif; font-size: 120%; font-weight: bold; padding: 5px 5px 5px 10px; text-align: left;">
<sup><u>17</u></sup> Indeed you are called a Jew, and rest on the law, and make your boast in God,
<br />
<sup><u>18</u></sup> and know <i>His</i> will, and approve the things that are excellent, being instructed out of the law,
<br />
<sup><u>19</u></sup> and are confident that you yourself are a guide to the blind, a light to those who are in darkness,
<br />
<sup><u>20</u></sup> an instructor of the foolish, a teacher of babes, having the form of knowledge and truth in the law.
<br />
<sup><u>21</u></sup> You, therefore, who teach another, do you not teach yourself? You who preach that a man should not steal, do you steal?
<br />
<sup><u>22</u></sup> You who say, “Do not commit adultery,” do you commit adultery? You who abhor idols, do you rob temples?
<br />
<sup><u>23</u></sup> You who make your boast in the law, do you dishonor God through breaking the law?
<br />
<sup><u>24</u></sup> For <i> “the name of God is</i> <i> blasphemed among the Gentiles because of you,”</i> as it is written.</div>
<br />
<b><span style="font-size: small;"><u>Circumcision of No Avail</u></span></b><br />
<br />
<div style="-moz-border-radius: 5px; -webkit-radius: 5px; background-image: url('https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipYkGTkwAUcz8RYQ48yUviy-rAJE8amLxMoGZVNR6DuNER8EHhHMwNaQ6MW_XeOFsKV9yPW5ugDi5rjkZbauSWDhZtoq8JDFf_drK3CrKd4ldbYMLZ3rbHrUaubIfESVLee0VX/s320/parchment7.jpg'); border: 2px outset #f5deb3; font-family: papyrus, sans-serif; font-size: 120%; font-weight: bold; padding: 5px 5px 5px 10px; text-align: left;">
<sup><u>25</u></sup> For circumcision is indeed profitable if you keep the law; but if you are a breaker of the law, your circumcision has become uncircumcision.
<br />
<sup><u>26</u></sup> Therefore, if an uncircumcised man keeps the righteous requirements of the law, will not his uncircumcision be counted as circumcision?
<br />
<sup><u>27</u></sup> And will not the physically uncircumcised, if he fulfills the law, judge you who, <i>even</i> with <i>your</i> written <i>code</i> and circumcision, <i>are</i> a transgressor of the law?
<br />
<sup><u>28</u></sup> For he is not a Jew who <i>is one</i> outwardly, nor <i>is</i> circumcision that which <i>is</i> outward in the flesh;
<br />
<sup><u>29</u></sup> but <i>he is</i> a Jew who <i>is one</i> inwardly; and circumcision <i>is that</i> of the heart, in the Spirit, not in the letter; whose praise <i>is</i> not from men but from God.</div>
<br />
<span style="font-family: eurostile,sans-serif; font-size: large; font-weight: bold;">Chapter 3</span>
<br />
<b><span style="font-size: small;"><u>God's Judgement Defended</u></span></b>
<br />
<br />
<div style="-moz-border-radius: 5px; -webkit-radius: 5px; background-image: url('https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipYkGTkwAUcz8RYQ48yUviy-rAJE8amLxMoGZVNR6DuNER8EHhHMwNaQ6MW_XeOFsKV9yPW5ugDi5rjkZbauSWDhZtoq8JDFf_drK3CrKd4ldbYMLZ3rbHrUaubIfESVLee0VX/s320/parchment7.jpg'); border: 2px outset #f5deb3; font-family: papyrus, sans-serif; font-size: 120%; font-weight: bold; padding: 5px 5px 5px 10px; text-align: left;">
<sup><u>1</u></sup> What advantage then has the Jew, or what <i>is</i> the profit of circumcision?
<br />
<sup><u>2</u></sup> Much in every way! Chiefly because to them were committed the oracles of God.
<br />
<sup><u>3</u></sup> For what if some did not believe? Will their unbelief make the faithfulness of God without effect?
<br />
<sup><u>4</u></sup> Certainly not! Indeed, let God be true but every man a liar. As it is written:
<br />
<i>“ That You may be justified in Your words,</i>
<br />
<i>And may overcome when You are judged.”</i>
<br />
<sup><u>5</u></sup> But if our unrighteousness demonstrates the righteousness of God, what shall we say? <i>Is</i> God unjust who inflicts wrath? (I speak as a man.)
<br />
<sup><u>6</u></sup> Certainly not! For then how will God judge the world?
<br />
<sup><u>7</u></sup> For if the truth of God has increased through my lie to His glory, why am I also still judged as a sinner?
<br />
<sup><u>8</u></sup> And <i>why</i> not <i>say,</i> “Let us do evil that good may come”?—as we are slanderously reported
and as some affirm that we say. Their condemnation is just.
</div>
<br />
<b><span style="font-size: small;"><u>All Have Sinned</u></span></b><br />
<br />
<div style="-moz-border-radius: 5px; -webkit-radius: 5px; background-image: url('https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipYkGTkwAUcz8RYQ48yUviy-rAJE8amLxMoGZVNR6DuNER8EHhHMwNaQ6MW_XeOFsKV9yPW5ugDi5rjkZbauSWDhZtoq8JDFf_drK3CrKd4ldbYMLZ3rbHrUaubIfESVLee0VX/s320/parchment7.jpg'); border: 2px outset #f5deb3; font-family: papyrus, sans-serif; font-size: 120%; font-weight: bold; padding: 5px 5px 5px 10px; text-align: left;">
<sup><u>9</u></sup> What then? Are we better <i>than they?</i> Not at all. For we have previously charged both Jews and Greeks that they are all under sin.
<br />
<sup><u>10</u></sup> As it is written:
<br />
<i>“ There is none righteous, no, not one;</i>
<br />
<sup><u>11</u></sup> <i>There is none who understands;</i>
<br />
<i>there is none who seeks after God.</i>
<br />
<sup><u>12</u></sup> <i>They have all turned aside;</i>
<br />
<i>they have together become unprofitable;</i>
<br />
<i>there is none who does good, no, not one.”</i>
<br />
<sup><u>13</u></sup> <i>“ Their throat is an open tomb;</i>
<br />
<i> with their tongues they have practiced deceit”;</i>
<br />
<i>“ The poison of asps is under their lips”;</i>
<br />
<sup><u>14</u></sup> <i>“ Whose mouth is full of cursing and bitterness.”</i>
<br />
<sup><u>15</u></sup> <i>“ Their feet are swift to shed blood;</i>
<br />
<sup><u>16</u></sup> <i>Destruction and misery are in their ways;</i>
<br />
<sup><u>17</u></sup> <i>And the way of peace they have not known.”</i>
<br />
<sup><u>18</u></sup> <i>“ There is no fear of God before their eyes.”</i>
<br />
<sup><u>19</u></sup> Now we know that whatever the law says, it says to those who are under the law, that every mouth may be stopped, and all the world may become guilty before God.
<br />
<sup><u>20</u></sup> Therefore by the deeds of the law no flesh will be justified in His sight, for by the law <i>is</i> the knowledge of sin.
</div>
<br />
<b><span style="font-size: small;"><u>God's Righteousness Through Faith</u></span></b><br />
<br />
<div style="-moz-border-radius: 5px; -webkit-radius: 5px; background-image: url('https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipYkGTkwAUcz8RYQ48yUviy-rAJE8amLxMoGZVNR6DuNER8EHhHMwNaQ6MW_XeOFsKV9yPW5ugDi5rjkZbauSWDhZtoq8JDFf_drK3CrKd4ldbYMLZ3rbHrUaubIfESVLee0VX/s320/parchment7.jpg'); border: 2px outset #f5deb3; font-family: papyrus, sans-serif; font-size: 120%; font-weight: bold; padding: 5px 5px 5px 10px; text-align: left;">
<sup><u>21</u></sup> But now the righteousness of God apart from the law is revealed, being witnessed by the Law and the Prophets,
<br />
<sup><u>22</u></sup> even the righteousness of God, through faith in Jesus Christ, to all and on all who believe. For there is no difference;
<br />
<sup><u>23</u></sup> for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God,
<br />
<sup><u>24</u></sup> being justified freely by His grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus,
<br />
<sup><u>25</u></sup> whom God set forth <i>as</i> a propitiation by His blood, through faith, to demonstrate His righteousness, because in His forbearance God had passed over the sins that were previously committed,
<br />
<sup><u>26</u></sup> to demonstrate at the present time His righteousness, that He might be just and the justifier of the one who has faith in Jesus.
</div>
<br />
<b><span style="font-size: small;"><u>Boasting Excluded</u></span></b><br />
<br />
<div style="-moz-border-radius: 5px; -webkit-radius: 5px; background-image: url('https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipYkGTkwAUcz8RYQ48yUviy-rAJE8amLxMoGZVNR6DuNER8EHhHMwNaQ6MW_XeOFsKV9yPW5ugDi5rjkZbauSWDhZtoq8JDFf_drK3CrKd4ldbYMLZ3rbHrUaubIfESVLee0VX/s320/parchment7.jpg'); border: 2px outset #f5deb3; font-family: papyrus, sans-serif; font-size: 120%; font-weight: bold; padding: 5px 5px 5px 10px; text-align: left;">
<sup><u>27</u></sup> Where <i>is</i> boasting then? It is excluded. By what law? Of works? No, but by the law of faith.
<br />
<sup><u>28</u></sup> Therefore we conclude that a man is justified by faith apart from the deeds of the law.
<br />
<sup><u>29</u></sup> Or <i>is He</i> the God of the Jews only? <i>Is He</i> not also the God of the Gentiles? Yes, of the Gentiles also,
<br />
<sup><u>30</u></sup> since <i>there is</i> one God who will justify the circumcised by faith and the uncircumcised through faith.
<br />
<sup><u>31</u></sup> Do we then make void the law through faith? Certainly not! On the contrary, we establish the law.
</div>
<br /></div>
</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #446666; font-style: italic;">"Simul iustus et peccator. "</span>*<br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">*Martin Luther</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkq7BhOCxGDhtpyAq6r9AW2Pil58NR-hrrkYVAULGzkDEC1tIM5RDHhO04iNzWZYhyaiSW0NyQM2GTIDIjXgOOohlbNu0WyHtvj8oRoxSxe4ysFEl7_neuzZXCyxEKg0osBocy/s1600-h/mangren.png"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5429180750783427682" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkq7BhOCxGDhtpyAq6r9AW2Pil58NR-hrrkYVAULGzkDEC1tIM5RDHhO04iNzWZYhyaiSW0NyQM2GTIDIjXgOOohlbNu0WyHtvj8oRoxSxe4ysFEl7_neuzZXCyxEKg0osBocy/s320/mangren.png" style="border: medium none; cursor: pointer; float: right; height: 26px; margin: -10px 30px 10px -30px; width: 48px;" /></a><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: eurostile,sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">image re-design;<br />
<a href="http://mdbounarotti.tripod.com/bleuelle3.html">bleu elle</a><br />
original image source idea;<br />
<a href="http://spd.adventistconnect.org/our-logo-and-name">http://spd.adventistconnect.org/our-logo-and-name</a><br />
bible passage source;<br />
<a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/">Bible Gateway</a></span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27640109.post-47644324520896722262011-10-02T05:10:00.000-07:002012-12-31T06:06:50.374-08:00Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27640109.post-57221410831796281722011-09-25T05:23:00.000-07:002011-09-25T05:23:27.891-07:00<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhQHCT6se0UO7FOwx-LLRwtdQ-Hthl6L50zWuDypsp4lWIbOLKo46Tc8s8_81lk3hq8nlhdktXqNDXB8yJpleSyBkblcrFEslqKJbdtkihyfCc-0zN-ckSxmk95jrfZKQn9blM/s1600/adam_profile2.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhQHCT6se0UO7FOwx-LLRwtdQ-Hthl6L50zWuDypsp4lWIbOLKo46Tc8s8_81lk3hq8nlhdktXqNDXB8yJpleSyBkblcrFEslqKJbdtkihyfCc-0zN-ckSxmk95jrfZKQn9blM/s1600/adam_profile2.jpg" style="-moz-border-radius: 5px; border-radius: 5px; border: 3px #ff4500 inset; cursor: pointer; float: left; height: 138; heigth: 135; margin: 0pt;" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHq3pGex9zbTfh1s7CPKdsCB25SsGupZn3897WJ7vk_oeP2d4tcY1hF-WCpq5kqYwkwNpzmIN3FREj1aBJPLxYV2uAji7N8uRkQV6bzOLkwkMoIZ4zVhhEWG7JJrnMyU1KIGvr/s1600/God_profile.jpg"><img alt="" border="" id="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHq3pGex9zbTfh1s7CPKdsCB25SsGupZn3897WJ7vk_oeP2d4tcY1hF-WCpq5kqYwkwNpzmIN3FREj1aBJPLxYV2uAji7N8uRkQV6bzOLkwkMoIZ4zVhhEWG7JJrnMyU1KIGvr/s1600/God_profile.jpg" style="-moz-border-radius: 5px; border-radius: 5px; border: 3px #ff4500 inset; cursor: pointer; float: right; height: 153; heigth: 153; margin: 0pt;" /></a><br />
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<span style="font-weight: bold;"><br />
Pt9 KNOWING AND USING WHAT GOD HAS SAID/YOUR BIBLE<br />
</span><br />
<div style="font-family: eurostile,sans-serif;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #446666; font-style: italic;">"Ave Christus, morituri te salutamus! "</span>
</div>
<br />
<span style="font-family: times new roman,serif; font-size: large; font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">D</span>ue to Adam's lack of leadership, due to him not fulfilling his role as the spiritual leader, due to Adam not providing the covering and being the protector as was his God ordained role - Eve chooses to sin. Note the word <u><i><b>chooses</b></i></u>, Eve had a choice, she was not forced to sin simply because Adam did not do his job. Inevitably we are all responsible for our own relationship with God and inevitably we are all responsible for our own knowledge, understanding and use of His word. Scripture plainly states God wants us to study, know, understand and use His word in our own lives;<br />
<div style="-moz-border-radius: 5px; border-radius: 5px; border: solid 1px #000000; font-family: tempus sans itc, sans-serif; font-weight: bold; padding: 5px 3px 5px 5px;">
"<i><u><b>You shall therefore impress these words of mine on your heart and on your soul;</b></u></i> and you shall bind them as a sign on your hand, and they shall be as frontals on your forehead. <i><u><b>You shall teach them to your sons, talking of them when you sit in your house and when you walk along the road and when you lie down and when you rise up</b></u>.</i> You shall write them on the doorposts of your house and on your gates," (Deuteronomy 11:18-20/NASB)<br />
<br />
"Now these were more noble-minded than those in Thessalonica, for they received the word with great eagerness, <u><i><b>examining the Scriptures daily to see whether these things were so</b></i></u>." (Acts 17:11/NASB)<br />
<br />
"<u><i><b>Be diligent</b></i></u> to present yourself approved to God as a workman who does not need to be ashamed, <u><i><b>accurately handling the word of truth</b></i></u>." (2 Timothy 2:15/NASB)<br />
<br />
"<u><i><b>Be diligent</b></i></u> to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, <u><i><b>rightly dividing the word of truth</b></i></u>." (2 Timothy 2:15/NKJV)
<br />
See also - Joshua 1:8, Psalm 1:1-2, & Proverbs 2:1-6 </div>
<span style="font-family: times new roman,serif; font-size: large; font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">H</span>owever simply studying or even knowing the scripture does not necessarily mean someone will understand/interpret and/or use them properly. This is seen when Christ is tempted in the wilderness;
<br />
<div style="-moz-border-radius: 5px; border-radius: 5px; border: solid 1px #000000; font-family: tempus sans itc, sans-serif; font-weight: bold; padding: 5px 3px 5px 5px;">
"...and said to Him, 'If You are the Son of God, throw Yourself down; <u><i><b>for it is written, "HE WILL COMMAND HIS ANGELS CONCERNING YOU"; and "ON their HANDS THEY WILL BEAR YOU UP, SO THAT YOU WILL NOT STRIKE YOUR FOOT AGAINST A STONE.</b></i></u>" ' " (Matthew 4:6/NASB)
<br />
See also Luke 4:10-11</div>
<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8Mzy9gA3z1a9uEGkp0cpaBUsEJxrEL-BP6tG9cbNvayEH_2u-iC1_OgfthyZ9Fi1D2ftfFhtwxYxPVDXmgl0SkyKuw5paGJ-IjjeSpZk-NwYIJm1t6gQ2he4E9G6HWc2UK35t/s1600/jesus2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8Mzy9gA3z1a9uEGkp0cpaBUsEJxrEL-BP6tG9cbNvayEH_2u-iC1_OgfthyZ9Fi1D2ftfFhtwxYxPVDXmgl0SkyKuw5paGJ-IjjeSpZk-NwYIJm1t6gQ2he4E9G6HWc2UK35t/s1600/jesus2.jpg" style="-moz-border-radius: 5px; border-radius: 5px; border: 3px #ff4500 inset; cursor: pointer; margin: 0pt;" /></a>
</div>
<br />
<span style="font-family: times new roman,serif; font-size: large; font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">I</span>t is also seen when Christ addresses the Jewish leaders in John chapter 5
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<div style="-moz-border-radius: 5px; border-radius: 5px; border: solid 1px #000000; font-family: tempus sans itc, sans-serif; font-weight: bold; padding: 5px 3px 5px 5px;">
"You search the Scriptures because you think that in them you have eternal life; it is these that testify about Me; <u><i><b>and you are unwilling to come to Me so that you may have life</b></i></u>. I do not receive glory from men; <u><i><b>but I know you, that you do not have the love of God in yourselves.</b></i></u>" (John 5:39 -42/NASB)
<br />
See also 1Peter2:6-8</div>
<span style="font-family: times new roman,serif; font-size: large; font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">I</span>n the first example Satan is clearly <i><u><b>not</b></u></i> "accurately handling the word of truth" and in the second the religious leaders <u><i><b>choose</b></i></u> <u><i><b>not</b></i></u> to "rightly divide (interpret) the word of truth" for selfish reasons. So God gives us four things to keep us from error when we read, study/learn and interpret His word;<br />
<ol><b>
<li>His Word</li>
<li>His Spirit </li>
<li>Prayer</li>
<li>Other believers</li>
</b></ol>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #446666; font-style: italic;">"Simul iustus et peccator"</span>*<br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">*Martin Luther</span></div>
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkq7BhOCxGDhtpyAq6r9AW2Pil58NR-hrrkYVAULGzkDEC1tIM5RDHhO04iNzWZYhyaiSW0NyQM2GTIDIjXgOOohlbNu0WyHtvj8oRoxSxe4ysFEl7_neuzZXCyxEKg0osBocy/s1600-h/mangren.png"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5429180750783427682" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkq7BhOCxGDhtpyAq6r9AW2Pil58NR-hrrkYVAULGzkDEC1tIM5RDHhO04iNzWZYhyaiSW0NyQM2GTIDIjXgOOohlbNu0WyHtvj8oRoxSxe4ysFEl7_neuzZXCyxEKg0osBocy/s320/mangren.png" style="border: medium none; cursor: pointer; float: right; height: 26px; margin: -10px 30px 10px -30px; width: 48px;" /></a><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">images sources;<br />
<a href="http://www.1902encyclopedia.com/M/MIC/michelangelo-buonarroti.html">Adam</a>
<br />
<a href="http://www.1902encyclopedia.com/M/MIC/michelangelo-buonarroti.html">God</a>
<br />
<a href="http://fineartamerica.com/featured/casting-out-satan-carl-bloch.html">Jesus</a></span></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27640109.post-63592341962776957802011-09-18T06:54:00.000-07:002011-09-18T06:54:35.015-07:00<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhQHCT6se0UO7FOwx-LLRwtdQ-Hthl6L50zWuDypsp4lWIbOLKo46Tc8s8_81lk3hq8nlhdktXqNDXB8yJpleSyBkblcrFEslqKJbdtkihyfCc-0zN-ckSxmk95jrfZKQn9blM/s1600/adam_profile2.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhQHCT6se0UO7FOwx-LLRwtdQ-Hthl6L50zWuDypsp4lWIbOLKo46Tc8s8_81lk3hq8nlhdktXqNDXB8yJpleSyBkblcrFEslqKJbdtkihyfCc-0zN-ckSxmk95jrfZKQn9blM/s1600/adam_profile2.jpg" style="-moz-border-radius: 5px; border-radius: 5px; border: 3px #ff4500 inset; cursor: pointer; float: left; height: 138; heigth: 135; margin: 0pt;" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHq3pGex9zbTfh1s7CPKdsCB25SsGupZn3897WJ7vk_oeP2d4tcY1hF-WCpq5kqYwkwNpzmIN3FREj1aBJPLxYV2uAji7N8uRkQV6bzOLkwkMoIZ4zVhhEWG7JJrnMyU1KIGvr/s1600/God_profile.jpg"><img alt="" border="" id="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHq3pGex9zbTfh1s7CPKdsCB25SsGupZn3897WJ7vk_oeP2d4tcY1hF-WCpq5kqYwkwNpzmIN3FREj1aBJPLxYV2uAji7N8uRkQV6bzOLkwkMoIZ4zVhhEWG7JJrnMyU1KIGvr/s1600/God_profile.jpg" style="-moz-border-radius: 5px; border-radius: 5px; border: 3px #ff4500 inset; cursor: pointer; float: right; height: 153; heigth: 153; margin: 0pt;" /></a><br />
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<hr noshade="noshade" style="color: #e66d2e; heigth: 1px;" />
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<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-weight: bold;">Pt8 KNOWING AND USING WHAT GOD HAS SAID/YOUR BIBLE<br />
</span><br />
<div style="font-family: eurostile,sans-serif; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b> I</b></span>n <a href="http://hopefully-onesimus.blogspot.com/2011/07/pt7-knowing-and-using-what-god-has.html">PT 7</a> of this post three questions were asked;<br />
<ul>
<li>Was Adam with Eve when she conversed with the serpent?</li>
<li>Was he with Eve when she ate the fruit</li>
<li>Or did he come to Eve after she ate the fruit?</li>
</ul>
and the first question was answered with "<b>NO</b>". Now let us look at the other two questions;<br />
<ul>
<li>Was he with Eve when she ate the fruit</li>
<li>Or did he come to Eve after she ate the fruit?</li>
</ul>
The answer to both of these is unclear. We do know that Adam did join Eve at some point as scripture plainly states;
<br />
<span style="color: #446666; font-family: papyrus,sans-serif; font-weight: bold;">"...She also gave to her husband <u><i><b>with her</b></i></u>, and he ate." (Genesis 3:6c/NKJV)</span>
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>W</b></span>hile it is possible that Adam originally tried to stop Eve from eating the forbidden fruit (if he was with her at that point) and he may have originally rejected it, inevitably he chose to listen to Eve rather then God <span style="color: #446666; font-family: papyrus,sans-serif; font-weight: bold;">(Genesis 3:17)</span>. In either case it is obvious that he was offered the fruit not long after Eves conversation with the serpent/Satan and chose to disobey God.
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b> I</b></span>n essence Adam was not doing what he was supposed to so Eve took the lead, or Eve simply followed Adams (lack of) lead*, i.e. Eve did not follow God (sinned) because Adam did not follow God.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjriYjzrhZBPurpQBhQ-EfTARydoZth1VZL-yJcTqq1XrCruJNWMFY4lydOl6HtYKRd766azf0pzsLOgR0X0IIWkcgOF_zENs6WUqmRTFuSaPgaejAdwMgt_vmMjSD8qenb0lyn/s1600/dead_endB.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjriYjzrhZBPurpQBhQ-EfTARydoZth1VZL-yJcTqq1XrCruJNWMFY4lydOl6HtYKRd766azf0pzsLOgR0X0IIWkcgOF_zENs6WUqmRTFuSaPgaejAdwMgt_vmMjSD8qenb0lyn/s1600/dead_endB.jpg" style="-moz-border-radius: 5px; border-radius: 5px; border: cursor: pointer; float: right; height: 160px; margin: 5px; width: 160px;" /></a> However, we are all responsible for our own relationship with God. While <span style="color: #446666; font-family: papyrus,sans-serif; font-weight: bold;">1 Timothy 2:13-14</span>, does show the circumstances leading to her disobedience and those of Adam are somewhat different, and Eve was simply "following" Adams lead this does not negate the fact that Eve sinned as <span style="color: #446666; font-family: papyrus,sans-serif; font-weight: bold;">1 Timothy 2:14</span> plainly states that she "fell into <b><u>transgression</u></b>", i.e. Eve sinned. Lastly, as stated before, Eves actions demonstrate the condition of her relationship with God and Adam and the condition of Adam's relationship with God. So, again all roads lead to Adam.<br />
<br />
*<span style="font-size: large;"><b>NOTE</b></span>; Matthew Henry's commentary - "Adam laid the blame on his wife; but though it was her fault to persuade him to eat the forbidden fruit, <u><i><b>it was his fault to hearken to her</b></i></u>." (<a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/resources/commentaries/Matthew-Henry/Gen/Punishment-Mankind">Matthew Henry's Concise Commentary of the Bible</a>)</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #446666; font-style: italic;">"Simul iustus et peccator"</span>*<br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">*Martin Luther</span></div>
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkq7BhOCxGDhtpyAq6r9AW2Pil58NR-hrrkYVAULGzkDEC1tIM5RDHhO04iNzWZYhyaiSW0NyQM2GTIDIjXgOOohlbNu0WyHtvj8oRoxSxe4ysFEl7_neuzZXCyxEKg0osBocy/s1600-h/mangren.png"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5429180750783427682" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkq7BhOCxGDhtpyAq6r9AW2Pil58NR-hrrkYVAULGzkDEC1tIM5RDHhO04iNzWZYhyaiSW0NyQM2GTIDIjXgOOohlbNu0WyHtvj8oRoxSxe4ysFEl7_neuzZXCyxEKg0osBocy/s320/mangren.png" style="border: medium none; cursor: pointer; float: right; height: 26px; margin: -10px 30px 10px -30px; width: 48px;" /></a><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"> Images sources;
<br />
<a href="http://www.1902encyclopedia.com/M/MIC/michelangelo-buonarroti.html">Creation of Adam</a>
<br />
<a href="http://www.1902encyclopedia.com/M/MIC/michelangelo-buonarroti.html">God</a>
<br />
<a href="http://www.lightalongthejourney.com/?p=546">Dead End Sign</a>
<br />
<a href="http://www.kooziez.com/design/clipart-available/bachelore-bachelorette/skull-and-crossbones/">Skull and Crossbones</a>
</span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27640109.post-46934751808812767082011-09-11T05:50:00.000-07:002011-09-11T07:08:51.762-07:00<div style="-moz-border-radius: 5px; background-color: black; border-radius: 5px; font-family: eurostile, sans-serif; text-align: center;">
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<b><span style="background-color: black; color: white; font-size: large;">9.11.01</span></b>
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<span style="background-color: black; color: white; font-size: large;">α</span>
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<div class="separator" style="background-color: black; clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlq9Fy8nEXc_gXjlqHMSSBqOSfN1T23c3LRjUhGTTPWAwnDtPcyv-WEfxoW0d4JSqi5BCjIw3DPMyyS0QFbZGOBpIT70BffnLKC-tXyLlLpJr2Zbsfh7kDXjTxPoMq-Cli2bOL/s1600/911_cross2.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlq9Fy8nEXc_gXjlqHMSSBqOSfN1T23c3LRjUhGTTPWAwnDtPcyv-WEfxoW0d4JSqi5BCjIw3DPMyyS0QFbZGOBpIT70BffnLKC-tXyLlLpJr2Zbsfh7kDXjTxPoMq-Cli2bOL/s1600/911_cross2.jpg" style="-moz-border-radius: 5px; border-radius: 5px; border: 3px #ff4500 inset; cursor: pointer; height: 320; heigth: 320; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; margin: 0pt; width: 287;" /></a>
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<span style="background-color: black; color: white; font-size: large;">∞</span>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjd7tvq9BJDxvolLvIifZo9LCMG9zUqJR5_0Ep1wQu_t0UlwG4Xhi1X34RZ6UcWfQYujjPqxp7I-OzCShpx27XZzFia4MC8DvrsBniZYQ_NfJSr3-qw9A1Hh_YYDYjQpU7tbrR_/s1600/911_cross.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjd7tvq9BJDxvolLvIifZo9LCMG9zUqJR5_0Ep1wQu_t0UlwG4Xhi1X34RZ6UcWfQYujjPqxp7I-OzCShpx27XZzFia4MC8DvrsBniZYQ_NfJSr3-qw9A1Hh_YYDYjQpU7tbrR_/s320/911_cross.jpg" style="-moz-border-radius: 5px; border-radius: 5px; border: 3px #ff4500 inset; cursor: pointer; height: 320; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; margin: 0pt; width: 239;" /></a>
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<span style="background-color: black; color: white; font-size: large;">∞</span>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzSZ2cDmW1qdVc1GBFcQMjVqj_nv4mpSEbRm056eQFjNOe7mV79sw5jGL1sE7oL1fhcJC6EO2YIOwZRTBaQZuNu3OiUr6tZj3B5F_r0vMZSGIXBuUlYkb7F4lnnz1hpupC-Wak/s1600/911_cross3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="209" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzSZ2cDmW1qdVc1GBFcQMjVqj_nv4mpSEbRm056eQFjNOe7mV79sw5jGL1sE7oL1fhcJC6EO2YIOwZRTBaQZuNu3OiUr6tZj3B5F_r0vMZSGIXBuUlYkb7F4lnnz1hpupC-Wak/s320/911_cross3.jpg" style="-moz-border-radius: 5px; border-radius: 5px; border: 3px #ff4500 inset; width: 320;" /></a>
</div>
<span style="background-color: black; color: white; font-size: large;">Ω</span>
<br />
<b><span style="background-color: black; color: white; font-size: large;">9.11.11</span></b>
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<br /></div>
<span style="font-size: x-small;">images sources;
<br />
<a href="http://grahamfriends.org/blog/">911 cross</a>
<br />
<a href="http://blogimg.com/docisin/">911 cross2</a>
<br />
<a href="http://blog.heritage.org/tag/atheists/">911 cross3</a>
</span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27640109.post-37796174419396988172011-09-04T04:08:00.000-07:002011-09-04T04:08:24.775-07:00<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh24IpzZMXmBU5g0rxWEZVRrpwdVHEQ4I4udqpvJCfhSZ1GxJ7GwgIdlc9iaJBHMYkgm5UCV7SEcHQjW05XjIhNMuefevgMyGQrMpJxe3LN9Um9a5kiuYwHW1eZsRqvxkoXKecI/s1600/dove8.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="234" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh24IpzZMXmBU5g0rxWEZVRrpwdVHEQ4I4udqpvJCfhSZ1GxJ7GwgIdlc9iaJBHMYkgm5UCV7SEcHQjW05XjIhNMuefevgMyGQrMpJxe3LN9Um9a5kiuYwHW1eZsRqvxkoXKecI/s320/dove8.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<div style="font-family: eurostile, sans-serif;">
<span style="font-size: 180%; font-weight: bold;">SEPTEMBER - FIRST SUNDAY PASSAGE</span><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #446666; font-style: italic;">"Ave Christus, morituri te salutamus!"</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: eurostile,sans-serif; font-size: large; font-weight: bold;">Proverbs 1-3<br />
<span style="font-size: small;">(New King James)</span><br />
<br />
Chapter 1<br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><u>The Beginning of Knowledge</u></span></span><br />
<br />
<div style="-moz-border-radius: 5px; -webkit-radius: 5px; background-image: url('https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipYkGTkwAUcz8RYQ48yUviy-rAJE8amLxMoGZVNR6DuNER8EHhHMwNaQ6MW_XeOFsKV9yPW5ugDi5rjkZbauSWDhZtoq8JDFf_drK3CrKd4ldbYMLZ3rbHrUaubIfESVLee0VX/s320/parchment7.jpg'); border: 2px outset #f5deb3; font-family: papyrus, sans-serif; font-size: 120%; font-weight: bold; padding: 5px 5px 5px 10px; text-align: left;">
<sup><u>1</u></sup> The proverbs of Solomon the son of David, king of Israel:<br />
<sup><u>2</u></sup> To know wisdom and instruction, to perceive the words of understanding, <br />
<sup><u>3</u></sup> To receive the instruction of wisdom, justice, judgment, and equity; <br />
<sup><u>4</u></sup> To give prudence to the simple, to the young man knowledge and discretion— <br />
<sup><u>5</u></sup> A wise <i>man</i> will hear and increase learning, and a man of understanding will attain wise counsel, <br />
<sup><u>6</u></sup> To understand a proverb and an enigma, the words of the wise and their riddles. <br />
<sup><u>7</u></sup> The fear of the LORD <i>is</i> the beginning of knowledge, <i>but</i> fools despise wisdom and instruction.</div>
<br />
<b><span style="font-size: small;"><u>Shun Evil Counsel</u></span></b><br />
<br />
<div style="-moz-border-radius: 5px; -webkit-radius: 5px; background-image: url('https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipYkGTkwAUcz8RYQ48yUviy-rAJE8amLxMoGZVNR6DuNER8EHhHMwNaQ6MW_XeOFsKV9yPW5ugDi5rjkZbauSWDhZtoq8JDFf_drK3CrKd4ldbYMLZ3rbHrUaubIfESVLee0VX/s320/parchment7.jpg'); border: 2px outset #f5deb3; font-family: papyrus, sans-serif; font-size: 120%; font-weight: bold; padding: 5px 5px 5px 10px; text-align: left;">
<sup><u>8</u></sup> My son, hear the instruction of your father, and do not forsake the law of your mother; <br />
<sup><u>9</u></sup> For they <i>will be</i> a graceful ornament on your head, and chains about your neck. <br />
<sup><u>10</u></sup> My son, if sinners entice you, do not consent. <br />
<sup><u>11</u></sup> If they say, “Come with us, let us lie in wait to <i>shed</i> blood; let us lurk secretly for the innocent without cause; <br />
<sup><u>12</u></sup> Let us swallow them alive like Sheol, and whole, like those who go down to the Pit; <br />
<sup><u>13</u></sup> We shall find all <i>kinds</i> of precious possessions, we shall fill our houses with spoil; <br />
<sup><u>14</u></sup> Cast in your lot among us, let us all have one purse”— <br />
<sup><u>15</u></sup> My son, do not walk in the way with them, keep your foot from their path; <br />
<sup><u>16</u></sup> For their feet run to evil, and they make haste to shed blood. <br />
<sup><u>17</u></sup> Surely, in vain the net is spread in the sight of any bird; <br />
<sup><u>18</u></sup> But they lie in wait for their <i>own</i> blood, they lurk secretly for their <i>own</i> lives. <br />
<sup><u>19</u></sup> So <i>are</i> the ways of everyone who is greedy for gain; it takes away the life of its owners.</div>
<br />
<b><span style="font-size: small;"><u>The Call of Wisdom</u></span></b><br />
<br />
<div style="-moz-border-radius: 5px; -webkit-radius: 5px; background-image: url('https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipYkGTkwAUcz8RYQ48yUviy-rAJE8amLxMoGZVNR6DuNER8EHhHMwNaQ6MW_XeOFsKV9yPW5ugDi5rjkZbauSWDhZtoq8JDFf_drK3CrKd4ldbYMLZ3rbHrUaubIfESVLee0VX/s320/parchment7.jpg'); border: 2px outset #f5deb3; font-family: papyrus, sans-serif; font-size: 120%; font-weight: bold; padding: 5px 5px 5px 10px; text-align: left;">
<sup><u>20</u></sup> Wisdom calls aloud outside; she raises her voice in the open squares. <br />
<sup><u>21</u></sup> She cries out in the chief concourses, at the openings of the gates in the city she speaks her words: <br />
<sup><u>22</u></sup> “ How long, you simple ones, will you love simplicity? For scorners delight in their scorning, and fools hate knowledge. <br />
<sup><u>23</u></sup> Turn at my rebuke; surely I will pour out my spirit on you; I will make my words known to you. <br />
<sup><u>24</u></sup> Because I have called and you refused, I have stretched out my hand and no one regarded, <br />
<sup><u>25</u></sup> Because you disdained all my counsel, and would have none of my rebuke, <br />
<sup><u>26</u></sup> I also will laugh at your calamity; I will mock when your terror comes, <br />
<sup><u>27</u></sup> When your terror comes like a storm, and your destruction comes like a whirlwind, when distress and anguish come upon you. <br />
<sup><u>28</u></sup> “ Then they will call on me, but I will not answer; they will seek me diligently, but they will not find me. <br />
<sup><u>29</u></sup> Because they hated knowledge and did not choose the fear of the LORD, <br />
<sup><u>30</u></sup> They would have none of my counsel <i>and</i> despised my every rebuke. <br />
<sup><u>31</u></sup> Therefore they shall eat the fruit of their own way, and be filled to the full with their own fancies. <br />
<sup><u>32</u></sup> For the turning away of the simple will slay them, and the complacency of fools will destroy them; <br />
<sup><u>33</u></sup> But whoever listens to me will dwell safely, and will be secure, without fear of evil.”</div>
<br />
<b>Chapter 2<br />
<u>The Value of Wisdom</u></b><br />
<br />
<div style="-moz-border-radius: 5px; -webkit-radius: 5px; background-image: url('https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipYkGTkwAUcz8RYQ48yUviy-rAJE8amLxMoGZVNR6DuNER8EHhHMwNaQ6MW_XeOFsKV9yPW5ugDi5rjkZbauSWDhZtoq8JDFf_drK3CrKd4ldbYMLZ3rbHrUaubIfESVLee0VX/s320/parchment7.jpg'); border: 2px outset #f5deb3; font-family: papyrus, sans-serif; font-size: 120%; font-weight: bold; padding: 5px 5px 5px 10px; text-align: left;">
<sup><u>1</u></sup> My son, if you receive my words, and treasure my commands within you,<br />
<sup><u>2</u></sup> So that you incline your ear to wisdom, and apply your heart to understanding;<br />
<sup><u>3</u></sup> Yes, if you cry out for discernment,and lift up your voice for understanding,<br />
<sup><u>4</u></sup> If you seek her as silver, and search for her as for hidden treasures;<br />
<sup><u>5</u></sup> Then you will understand the fear of the LORD, and find the knowledge of God.<br />
<sup><u>6</u></sup> For the LORD gives wisdom; from His mouth come knowledge and understanding;<br />
<sup><u>7</u></sup> He stores up sound wisdom for the upright; he is a shield to those who walk uprightly;<br />
<sup><u>8</u></sup> He guards the paths of justice, and preserves the way of His saints.<br />
<sup><u>9</u></sup> Then you will understand righteousness and justice, equity and every good path.<br />
<sup><u>10</u></sup> When wisdom enters your heart, and knowledge is pleasant to your soul,<br />
<sup><u>11</u></sup> Discretion will preserve you; understanding will keep you,<br />
<sup><u>12</u></sup> To deliver you from the way of evil, from the man who speaks perverse things,<br />
<sup><u>13</u></sup> From those who leave the paths of uprightness to walk in the ways of darkness;<br />
<sup><u>14</u></sup> Who rejoice in doing evil, and delight in the perversity of the wicked;<br />
<sup><u>15</u></sup> Whose ways are crooked, and who are devious in their paths;<br />
<sup><u>16</u></sup> To deliver you from the immoral woman, from the seductress who flatters with her words,<br />
<sup><u>17</u></sup> Who forsakes the companion of her youth, and forgets the covenant of her God.<br />
<sup><u>18</u></sup> For her house leads down to death, and her paths to the dead;<br />
<sup><u>19</u></sup> None who go to her return, nor do they regain the paths of life—<br />
<sup><u>20</u></sup> So you may walk in the way of goodness,and keep to the paths of righteousness.<br />
<sup><u>21</u></sup> For the upright will dwell in the land, and the blameless will remain in it;<br />
<sup><u>22</u></sup> But the wicked will be cut off from the earth, and the unfaithful will be uprooted from it.</div>
<br />
<b>Chapter 3<br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><u>Guidance for the Young</u></span></b><br />
<br />
<div style="-moz-border-radius: 5px; -webkit-radius: 5px; background-image: url('https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipYkGTkwAUcz8RYQ48yUviy-rAJE8amLxMoGZVNR6DuNER8EHhHMwNaQ6MW_XeOFsKV9yPW5ugDi5rjkZbauSWDhZtoq8JDFf_drK3CrKd4ldbYMLZ3rbHrUaubIfESVLee0VX/s320/parchment7.jpg'); border: 2px outset #f5deb3; font-family: papyrus, sans-serif; font-size: 120%; font-weight: bold; padding: 5px 5px 5px 10px; text-align: left;">
<sup><u>1</u></sup> My son, do not forget my law, but let your heart keep my commands;<br />
<sup><u>2</u></sup> For length of days and long life and peace they will add to you.<br />
<sup><u>3</u></sup> Let not mercy and truth forsake you; bind them around your neck, write them on the tablet of your heart,<br />
<sup><u>4</u></sup> And so find favor and high esteem in the sight of God and man.<br />
<sup><u>5</u></sup> Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding;<br />
<sup><u>6</u></sup> In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths.<br />
<sup><u>7</u></sup> Do not be wise in your own eyes; fear the LORD and depart from evil.<br />
<sup><u>8</u></sup> It will be health to your flesh, and strength to your bones.<br />
<sup><u>9</u></sup> Honor the LORD with your possessions, and with the firstfruits of all your increase;<br />
<sup><u>10</u></sup> So your barns will be filled with plenty, and your vats will overflow with new wine.<br />
<sup><u>11</u></sup> My son, do not despise the chastening of the LORD, nor detest His correction;<br />
<sup><u>12</u></sup> For whom the LORD loves He corrects, just as a father the son in whom he delights.<br />
<sup><u>13</u></sup> Happy is the man who finds wisdom, and the man who gains understanding;<br />
<sup><u>14</u></sup> For her proceeds are better than the profits of silver, and her gain than fine gold.;<br />
<sup><u>15</u></sup> She is more precious than rubies, and all the things you may desire cannot compare with her.<br />
<sup><u>16</u></sup> Length of days is in her right hand, in her left hand riches and honor.<br />
<sup><u>17</u></sup> Her ways are ways of pleasantness, and all her paths are peace.<br />
<sup><u>18</u></sup> She is a tree of life to those who take hold of her, and happy are all who retain her.<br />
<sup><u>19</u></sup> The LORD by wisdom founded the earth; by understanding He established the heavens;<br />
<sup><u>20</u></sup> By His knowledge the depths were broken up, and clouds drop down the dew.<br />
<sup><u>21</u></sup> My son, let them not depart from your eyes—keep sound wisdom and discretion;<br />
<sup><u>22</u></sup> So they will be life to your soul and grace to your neck.<br />
<sup><u>23</u></sup> Then you will walk safely in your way, and your foot will not stumble.<br />
<sup><u>24</u></sup> When you lie down, you will not be afraid; yes, you will lie down and your sleep will be sweet.<br />
<sup><u>25</u></sup> Do not be afraid of sudden terror, nor of trouble from the wicked when it comes;<br />
<sup><u>26</u></sup> For the LORD will be your confidence, and will keep your foot from being caught.<br />
<sup><u>27</u></sup> Do not withhold good from those to whom it is due, when it is in the power of your hand to do so.<br />
<sup><u>28</u></sup> Do not say to your neighbor,<br />
“ Go, and come back,<br />
And tomorrow I will give it,”<br />
When you have it with you.<br />
<sup><u>29</u></sup> Do not devise evil against your neighbor, for he dwells by you for safety’s sake.<br />
<sup><u>30</u></sup> Do not strive with a man without cause, if he has done you no harm.<br />
<sup><u>31</u></sup> Do not envy the oppressor, and choose none of his ways;<br />
<sup><u>32</u></sup> For the perverse person is an abomination to the LORD, but His secret counsel is with the upright.<br />
<sup><u>33</u></sup> The curse of the LORD is on the house of the wicked, but He blesses the home of the just.<br />
<sup><u>34</u></sup> Surely He scorns the scornful, but gives grace to the humble.<br />
<sup><u>35</u></sup> The wise shall inherit glory, but shame shall be the legacy of fools.</div>
<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #446666; font-style: italic;">"Simul iustus et peccator. "</span>*<br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">*Martin Luther</span></div>
</div>
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkq7BhOCxGDhtpyAq6r9AW2Pil58NR-hrrkYVAULGzkDEC1tIM5RDHhO04iNzWZYhyaiSW0NyQM2GTIDIjXgOOohlbNu0WyHtvj8oRoxSxe4ysFEl7_neuzZXCyxEKg0osBocy/s1600-h/mangren.png"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5429180750783427682" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkq7BhOCxGDhtpyAq6r9AW2Pil58NR-hrrkYVAULGzkDEC1tIM5RDHhO04iNzWZYhyaiSW0NyQM2GTIDIjXgOOohlbNu0WyHtvj8oRoxSxe4ysFEl7_neuzZXCyxEKg0osBocy/s320/mangren.png" style="border: medium none; cursor: pointer; float: right; height: 26px; margin: -10px 30px 10px -30px; width: 48px;" /></a><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: eurostile,sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">image re-design;<br />
<a href="http://mdbounarotti.tripod.com/bleuelle3.html">bleu elle</a><br />
original image source idea;<br />
<a href="http://spd.adventistconnect.org/our-logo-and-name">http://spd.adventistconnect.org/our-logo-and-name</a><br />
bible passage source;</span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27640109.post-78874365079530034712011-09-01T06:10:00.000-07:002012-12-31T06:08:38.029-08:00Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27640109.post-82723172716983842752011-08-28T07:52:00.000-07:002011-09-18T07:29:17.555-07:00<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGNA_tIMsUpnK8HPMMcipU-G2vvQA-HRaT-cfj-1-EoIEznQaf5PqN93kp3tRYp7LEylw-s1dAAsbbrcgfEmejtDfHMAtMS6KACsADZowJFtKtrx_7skMIuJYrwpCSiASKYib2/s1600/fish1.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="241" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGNA_tIMsUpnK8HPMMcipU-G2vvQA-HRaT-cfj-1-EoIEznQaf5PqN93kp3tRYp7LEylw-s1dAAsbbrcgfEmejtDfHMAtMS6KACsADZowJFtKtrx_7skMIuJYrwpCSiASKYib2/s1600/fish1.jpg" style="-moz-border-radius: 5px; border-radius: 5px; border: 2px #ff4500 inset;" /></a></div>
<div style="font-family: eurostile, sans-serif;">
<b>GRACE (Pt2)</b>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #446666; font-style: italic;">"Ave Christus, morituri te salutamus!"</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b> A</b></span>s noted in the <a href="http://hopefully-onesimus.blogspot.com/2011/08/grace-pt1-ave-christus-morituri-te.html">first post</a> on this subject Peter's responses to Jesus change due to a series of events culminating in Christ teaching from Peter's boat and His miracle draught of fishes. Peter's first response;<br />
<span style="color: #446666; font-family: papyrus; font-weight: bold;"> " '<u>Master</u>,we have toiled all night and caught nothing; nevertheless...' "</span><br />
although somewhat tenative is done out of respect for a teacher. This makes sense as rabbis were often seen gathering disciples and teaching in Jesus' and Peter's day;<br />
<b>"Jesus' gathering of disciples was not unusual in his time and Jewish setting. Many rabbis would gather students around them to teach Torah."</b> (<a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/resources/commentaries/IVP-NT/Luke/Gathering-Disciples/">Biblegateway</a>)<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b> Y</b></span>et it is quite different from Peter's second response as the second is addressing someone much greater then just another respected rabbi/teacher, i.e. Peters second response is addressing God or at the very least someone who speaks for and carries the authority of God. Please note; it is doubtful Peter saw Jesus as God at this point, rather Peter now saw Jesus as God's representative with God's power and authority so it was as if God Himself were actually there. Consequently we see a change in Peter's response to Jesus. This response to Jesus is frequently shown in the New Testament;<br />
<span style="color: #446666; font-family: papyrus; font-weight: bold;">"And when they had come into the house, they saw the young Child with Mary His mother, <u>and fell down</u> and worshiped Him. And when they had opened their treasures, they presented gifts to Him: gold, frankincense, and myrrh." (Matthew 2:11/NKJV)</span><br />
<span style="color: #446666; font-family: papyrus; font-weight: bold;">
"And the unclean spirits, whenever they saw Him, <u>fell down before Him</u> and cried out, saying, 'You are the Son of God.' " (Mark 3:11/NKJV)</span><br />
<span style="color: #446666; font-family: papyrus; font-weight: bold;">
"And behold, one of the rulers of the synagogue came, Jairus by name. And when he saw Him, <u>he fell at His feet..."</u> (Mark 5:22/NKJV, see also Luke 8:41)</span><br />
<span style="color: #446666; font-family: papyrus; font-weight: bold;">
"But the woman, fearing and trembling, knowing what had happened to her, came <u>and fell down before</u> Him and told Him the whole truth." (Mark 5:33/NKJV)</span><br />
<span style="color: #446666; font-family: papyrus; font-weight: bold;">
"Then, when Mary came where Jesus was, and saw Him, <u>she fell down at His feet</u>, saying to Him, 'Lord, if You had been here, my brother would not have died.' "(John 11:32/NKJV)</span><br />
<span style="color: #446666; font-family: papyrus; font-weight: bold;"> </span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b> S</b></span>o let us continue to look at Peter's responses to Christ;<br />
<span style="color: #446666; font-family: papyrus; font-weight: bold;">"But Simon answered and said to Him, '<u>Master</u>, we have toiled all night and caught nothing; nevertheless at Your word I will let down the net.' " (Luke 5:5/NKJV)</span><br />
<span style="color: #446666; font-family: papyrus; font-weight: bold;">
"When Simon Peter saw it, <i><u>he fell down at Jesus’ knees, saying, 'Depart from me, for I am a sinful man, O Lord</u></i>!' " (Luke 5:8/NKJV)</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b> P</b></span>eter's second response is different because;<br />
<b>"Simon, for his part, knows that he is a sinner who is not worthy to experience the benefits of God's power and presence. There is no presumption that God owes him anything."</b> (<a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/resources/commentaries/IVP-NT/Luke/Gathering-Disciples/">Biblegateway</a>)<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b> T</b></span>his attitude is frequently reflected in Jewish culture and beliefs, and is consistent with that of other responses to God and His representatives throughout scripture;<br />
<span style="color: #446666; font-family: papyrus; font-weight: bold;"> "When Abram was ninety-nine years old, the LORD appeared to Abram and said to him, 'I am Almighty God; walk before Me and be blameless. And I will make My covenant between Me and you, and will multiply you exceedingly.' <u>Then Abram fell on his face</u>, and God talked with him, saying:" (Genesis 17:1-3/NKJV)</span><br />
<span style="color: #446666; font-family: papyrus; font-weight: bold;">
"Then the LORD appeared to him by the terebinth trees of Mamre, as he was sitting in the tent door in the heat of the day. So he lifted his eyes and looked, and behold, three men were standing by him; and when he saw them, he ran from the tent door to meet them, <u>and bowed himself to the ground</u>," (Genesis 18: 1-2/NKJV)</span><br />
<span style="color: #446666; font-family: papyrus; font-weight: bold;">
"Now all the people witnessed the thunderings, the lightning flashes, the sound of the trumpet, and the mountain smoking; and when <u>the people saw it, they trembled and stood afar off</u>. Then they said to Moses, 'You speak with us, and we will hear; <u>but let not God speak with us, lest we die.</u>' " (Exodus 20:18-19/NKJV)</span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: #446666; font-family: papyrus; font-weight: bold;"> </span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5cXvtXpodLWMGAxLxT3zwqaJ5kZ4Rn-eDSbljw9ZBQvOZbrapsUYoJl-c9FTbRwMqBWxp2cL1vaEAtyKNEjd-9GtPjBiVkpHlvecyNPB27srndrTLCJ7I6vCVwWsqKRbyY46q/s1600/mary_magdalene_at_Jesus_feet.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="222" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5cXvtXpodLWMGAxLxT3zwqaJ5kZ4Rn-eDSbljw9ZBQvOZbrapsUYoJl-c9FTbRwMqBWxp2cL1vaEAtyKNEjd-9GtPjBiVkpHlvecyNPB27srndrTLCJ7I6vCVwWsqKRbyY46q/s320/mary_magdalene_at_Jesus_feet.jpg" style="-moz-border-radius: 5px; border-radius: 5px; border: 2px #ff4500 inset;" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="color: #446666; font-family: papyrus; font-weight: bold;">"So He said, 'No, but as Commander of the army of the LORD I have now come.' <u>And Joshua fell on his face to the earth</u> and worshiped, and said to Him, 'What does my Lord say to His servant?' " (Joshua 5:14/NKJV)</span><br />
<span style="color: #446666; font-family: papyrus; font-weight: bold;">
"So I said: '<u>Woe is me, for I am undone!</u> Because I am a man of unclean lips, and I dwell in the midst of a people of unclean lips; for my eyes have seen the King, the LORD of hosts.' " (Isaiah 6:5/NKJV)</span><br />
<span style="color: #446666; font-family: papyrus; font-weight: bold;">
For New Testament references please see the above scriptures on Jesus.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b> N</b></span>ote the responses of the Israelites and Isaiah in the scriptures above;<br />
<span style="color: #446666; font-family: papyrus; font-weight: bold;">" '...but let not God speak with us, <u>lest we die.</u>' "</span><br />
<span style="color: #446666; font-family: papyrus; font-weight: bold;">
"So I said: '<u>Woe is me, for I am undone!...' "</u> </span><br />
<span style="color: #446666; font-family: papyrus; font-weight: bold;"> </span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b> L</b></span>ike Peter they realize that an impure, unholy, wretched and sinful people cannot stand in the presence of a pure, holy, worthy and righteous God. We see examples of this in <span style="color: #446666; font-family: papyrus; font-weight: bold;">Exodus 33:18-22</span> when Moses asks to see God in all His glory and in <span style="color: #446666; font-family: papyrus; font-weight: bold;">Leviticus 10:1-6</span> when Aarons sons present profane (unholy) fire before God. In the first circumstance God provides a means for Moses to see only part of His glory and in the second God's holiness consumes Aarons sons. However, coming "face to face" with God not only shows us His true nature, but (in the pure light of God) also shows us our true condition; i.e whenever we have an encounter with the true God we are faced with two things;
<br />
<ol style="font-weight: bold;">
<li>who and what God really is</li>
<li>who and what we really are</li>
</ol>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b> F</b></span>ortunately, God does not break forth upon Moses, Peter and even us today as he did with the sons of Aaron. His response is one of grace. It is the same response that Christ shows Peter. It is this response which will be discussed in my next post.<br />
<br /></div>
<b> </b>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="color: #446666; font-style: italic;">"Simul iustus et peccator"</span>*</b><br />
<b> </b>
<b><span style="font-size: xx-small;">*Martin Luther</span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-size: xx-small;"> </span> </b></div>
<b> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkq7BhOCxGDhtpyAq6r9AW2Pil58NR-hrrkYVAULGzkDEC1tIM5RDHhO04iNzWZYhyaiSW0NyQM2GTIDIjXgOOohlbNu0WyHtvj8oRoxSxe4ysFEl7_neuzZXCyxEKg0osBocy/s1600-h/mangren.png"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5429180750783427682" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkq7BhOCxGDhtpyAq6r9AW2Pil58NR-hrrkYVAULGzkDEC1tIM5RDHhO04iNzWZYhyaiSW0NyQM2GTIDIjXgOOohlbNu0WyHtvj8oRoxSxe4ysFEl7_neuzZXCyxEKg0osBocy/s320/mangren.png" style="border: medium none; float: right; height: 26px; margin: -10px 30px 10px -30px; width: 48px;" /></a>
<span style="font-size: x-small;"> </span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-size: x-small;">images sources;</span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-size: x-small;">
<a href="http://mdbounarotti.tripod.com/bleuelle3.html">Fish In Net</a> </span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-size: x-small;">
<a href="http://rcspiritualdirection.com/blog/tags/catholic-guilt">Woman At Jesus Feet</a> </span> </b>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27640109.post-71561941828640602222011-08-21T08:35:00.000-07:002011-08-25T06:09:34.373-07:00<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGNA_tIMsUpnK8HPMMcipU-G2vvQA-HRaT-cfj-1-EoIEznQaf5PqN93kp3tRYp7LEylw-s1dAAsbbrcgfEmejtDfHMAtMS6KACsADZowJFtKtrx_7skMIuJYrwpCSiASKYib2/s1600/fish1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img 320"="" border="0" height="241" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGNA_tIMsUpnK8HPMMcipU-G2vvQA-HRaT-cfj-1-EoIEznQaf5PqN93kp3tRYp7LEylw-s1dAAsbbrcgfEmejtDfHMAtMS6KACsADZowJFtKtrx_7skMIuJYrwpCSiASKYib2/s1600/fish1.jpg" style="-moz-border-radius: 5px; border-radius: 5px; border: 2px #ff4500 inset;" /></a></div>
<div style="font-family: eurostile, sans-serif;">
<b>GRACE (Pt1)</b>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #446666; font-style: italic;">"Ave Christus, morituri te salutamus!"</span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b> I</b></span> am going to take another break from our faith discussion and write a little about God's grace. God's grace is truly amazing, normally as I read this passage the miracle draught of fishes is what is most prevalent to me;<br />
<span style="color: #446666; font-family: papyrus; font-weight: bold;">"So it was, as the multitude pressed about Him to hear the word of God, that He stood by the Lake of Gennesaret, and saw two boats standing by the lake; but the fishermen had gone from them and were washing their nets. Then He got into one of the boats, which was Simon’s, and asked him to put out a little from the land. And He sat down and taught the multitudes from the boat. When He had stopped speaking, He said to Simon, 'Launch out into the deep and let down your nets for a catch.' But Simon answered and said to Him, 'Master, we have toiled all night and caught nothing; nevertheless at Your word I will let down the net.' And when they had done this, they caught a great number of fish, and their net was breaking. So they signaled to their partners in the other boat to come and help them. And they came and filled both the boats, so that they began to sink. When Simon Peter saw it, he fell down at Jesus’ knees, saying, 'Depart from me, for I am a sinful man, O Lord!' For he and all who were with him were astonished at the catch of fish which they had taken; and so also were James and John, the sons of Zebedee, who were partners with Simon. And Jesus said to Simon, 'Do not be afraid. From now on you will catch men.' So when they had brought their boats to land, they forsook all and followed Him." (Luke 5:1-11/NKJV)</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b> H</b></span>owever God's Word and Spirit are so wonderful, this time as I read something else was brought to my attention;
<br />
<ol style="font-weight: bold;">
<li>Peter's responses</li>
<li>Jesus' response</li>
</ol>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b> L</b></span>et us look at Peter's responses first;<br />
<span style="color: #446666; font-family: papyrus; font-weight: bold;">"But Simon answered and said to Him, '<u>Master</u>, we have toiled all night and caught nothing; nevertheless at Your word I will let down the net.' " (Luke 5:5/NKJV)
"When Simon Peter saw it, <i><u>he fell down at Jesus’ knees, saying, 'Depart from me, for I am a sinful man, O Lord</u></i>!' " (Luke 5:8/NKJV)</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>I</b></span>t is strange that Peter would respond in this way . After all the natural man would simply attribute what happened to "luck", "good fortune" or perhaps Jesus was simply a very good fisherman. In fact Peters initial response seems to reflect this thinking; (see <span style="color: #446666; font-family: papyrus; font-weight: bold;">Luke 5:5</span> above). It appears Peter is initially responding out of obedience and courtesy, even the very word he first addresses Jesus with - "Master" - reflects this as it is not the same word he uses moments later - "Lord" - when he falls at Jesus feet in <span style="color: #446666; font-family: papyrus; font-weight: bold;">Luke 5:8</span>. In Greek the first word "Master" is <i><b>epistates</b></i> which means; commander or teacher. While the Greek word for "Lord" is <i><b>kurios</b></i> which can mean; Mr., Sir, master, supreme in authority, controller, or God/Lord. So why does Peter go from treating Jesus as a highly respected teacher (his first response) to falling at His feet and honoring Jesus as God or, at the very least, someone who speaks for and carries the authority of God (his second response) perhaps we should back up just a little and look at a few of the events that lead up to this one. By so doing we see the grace of God in Peter's life both <b><i><u>publicly</u></i></b> and <b><u><i>privately/personally</i></u></b>.<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b> F</b></span>irst we must remember (as Jesus so often states) He is not operating of His own accord. This event happens not long after Jesus;
<br />
<ol>
<li><b>is baptized and the Holy Spirit comes upon (fills) Him, <span style="color: #446666; font-family: papyrus; font-weight: bold;">(Matthew 3: 13-17, Mark 1:9-11,Luke 3:21-22, John 1:32-34)</span></b></li>
<b>
<li>miraculously fasts for 40 days and nights, <span style="color: #446666; font-family: papyrus; font-weight: bold;">(Matthew 4:2, Mark 1:13, Luke 4:2)</span></li>
<li>resists the tempter (Satan/devil), <span style="color: #446666; font-family: papyrus; font-weight: bold;">(Matthew 4:3-11, Mark 1:13, Luke 4:3-13)</span></li>
<li>and consequently returns with the power of the Spirit. <span style="color: #446666; font-family: papyrus; font-weight: bold;">(Luke 4:14)</span></li>
</b></ol>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>S</b></span>o, Jesus comes to Peter and others with the power and authority of God and the Holy Spirit because he obeyed God's will <span style="color: #446666; font-family: papyrus; font-weight: bold;">(Matthew 3:13-17, Mark 1:9-11, Luke 3:21)</span> and subjected Himself to the Holy Spirit <span style="color: #446666; font-family: papyrus; font-weight: bold;">(Matthew 4:1, Mark 1:12, Luke 4:1)</span>. Second we must remember this is not the first time;
<br />
<ul>
<li><b>Jesus has taught/preached <span style="color: #446666; font-family: papyrus; font-weight: bold;">(Matthew 4:17, Mark 1:14-15, Luke 4:15-32, 43-44)</span></b></li>
<b>
<li>or performed miracles; <span style="color: #446666; font-family: papyrus; font-weight: bold;">(Luke 4:33-35,38-41)</span></li>
</b></ul>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>S</b></span>o,undoubtedly Peter has at least heard of Jesus, His teachings and His miracles <span style="color: #446666; font-family: papyrus; font-weight: bold;">(Luke 4:15, 36-37, John 1:40-42)</span> but now there is no doubt he hears Jesus teach;<br />
<span style="color: #446666; font-family: papyrus; font-weight: bold;">"<u>Then He got into one of the boats, which was Simon’s, and asked him</u> to put out a little from the land. And He sat down <u>and taught</u> the multitudes <u>from the boat</u>." (Luke 5: 3/NKJV)</span>
and sees Him performing the miraculous;
<span style="color: #446666; font-family: papyrus; font-weight: bold;">"When He had stopped speaking, He said to Simon, 'Launch out into the deep and let down your nets for a catch.' But Simon answered and said to Him, 'Master, we have toiled all night and caught nothing; nevertheless at Your word I will let down the net.' And when they had done this, they caught a great number of fish, and their net was breaking. So they signaled to their partners in the other boat to come and help them. And they came and filled both the boats, so that they began to sink. <u>When Simon Peter saw it</u>, he fell down at Jesus’ knees, saying, 'Depart from me, for I am a sinful man, O Lord!' " (Luke 5:4-8/NKJV)</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>F</b></span>urthermore, this is not the first miracle Jesus performs which has effected Peter personally;<br />
<span style="color: #446666; font-family: papyrus; font-weight: bold;">"Now as soon as they had come out of the synagogue, <u>they entered the house of Simon and Andrew</u>, with James and John. <u>But Simon’s wife’s mother lay sick with a fever, and they told Him about her at once</u>. <u>So He came and took her by the hand and lifted her up, and immediately the fever left her</u>. And she served them." (Mark 1:29-31/NKJV)
</span>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #446666; font-family: papyrus; font-weight: bold;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnCGDtJ2tfn6LcTDHr_OiyfxlyYGb-AMvqZtC3sFi-pLu_O463ddhsiBD_SFaFI2rNa5PADFwXgrbyldhD0q3QdzAKFhBMq3Zu-_cpaEL7z37IOg6d-Oz4Htk1sz2Nf-EK5oc4/s1600/jesus_healing_peters_mil.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="319" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnCGDtJ2tfn6LcTDHr_OiyfxlyYGb-AMvqZtC3sFi-pLu_O463ddhsiBD_SFaFI2rNa5PADFwXgrbyldhD0q3QdzAKFhBMq3Zu-_cpaEL7z37IOg6d-Oz4Htk1sz2Nf-EK5oc4/s320/jesus_healing_peters_mil.jpg" style="-moz-border-radius: 5px; border-radius: 5px; border: 2px #ff4500 inset;" /></a></span></div>
<span style="color: #446666; font-family: papyrus; font-weight: bold;">"Now He arose from the synagogue <u>and entered Simon’s house</u>. But Simon’s wife’s mother was sick with a high fever, <u>and they made request of Him concerning her</u>. So <u>He stood over her and rebuked the fever, and it left her</u>. And immediately she arose and served them." (Luke 4:38-39/NKJV)</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>I</b></span>n the passages above we not only see Jesus entering Peter's home, but also (at their request) healing his mother-in-law. God's grace cannot get anymore personal then to enter someone's home and to heal someone in that home after they have asked.</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #446666; font-style: italic;">"Simul iustus et peccator"</span>*<br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">*Martin Luther</span></div>
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkq7BhOCxGDhtpyAq6r9AW2Pil58NR-hrrkYVAULGzkDEC1tIM5RDHhO04iNzWZYhyaiSW0NyQM2GTIDIjXgOOohlbNu0WyHtvj8oRoxSxe4ysFEl7_neuzZXCyxEKg0osBocy/s1600-h/mangren.png"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5429180750783427682" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkq7BhOCxGDhtpyAq6r9AW2Pil58NR-hrrkYVAULGzkDEC1tIM5RDHhO04iNzWZYhyaiSW0NyQM2GTIDIjXgOOohlbNu0WyHtvj8oRoxSxe4ysFEl7_neuzZXCyxEKg0osBocy/s320/mangren.png" style="border: medium none; cursor: pointer; float: right; height: 26px; margin: -10px 30px 10px -30px; width: 48px;" /></a>
<span style="font-size: x-small;">images source;<br />
<a href="http://mdbounarotti.tripod.com/bleuelle3.html">bleu elle</a><br />
<a href="http://christiancliparts.blogspot.com/2009/09/todays-christian-clip-art-jesus-healed.html">Jesus Healing Peter's Mother-In-Law</a>
</span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27640109.post-4613566285097661662011-08-14T08:14:00.000-07:002011-08-14T08:14:20.879-07:00<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrxlEuzFSJ13Dls06sxUGHeXgfCeWbmXbiLOT_iH6VZtpPm-5QUCoraYLCWRoqaE06FAvdOSh40pyzJcUNtT0Kdqpl44PD_jZ2C_Bho1jLktyVi8aYSLqyyMWu2d6K4kysiQMO/s1600/great_adventure2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="100" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrxlEuzFSJ13Dls06sxUGHeXgfCeWbmXbiLOT_iH6VZtpPm-5QUCoraYLCWRoqaE06FAvdOSh40pyzJcUNtT0Kdqpl44PD_jZ2C_Bho1jLktyVi8aYSLqyyMWu2d6K4kysiQMO/s320/great_adventure2.jpg" width="198" /></a></div>
<b>PT4 THE GREAT ADVENTURE i.e. Practical Faith <i>(Pt7 Living Life To Its Fullest)</i></b><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #446666;"><i>"Ave Christus, morituri te salutamus!"</i></span></div>
<div style="font-family: eurostile, sans-serif;">
<div>
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>O</b></span>ne final look at the Greek words for substance and evidence shows us some interesting things about faith. For <u>substance</u> the Greek word is <span style="font-family: arial,sans serif;"><i><b>hupostasis</b></i></span> and for <u>evidence</u> the Greek word is <span style="font-family: arial,sans serif;"><i><b>elegchos</b></i></span>.<br />
*<u><i>Substance</i></u> - <i><span style="font-family: arial; font-weight: bold;">Hupostasis </span>hoop-os-tasis</i>; a setting under (figuratively support), concretely <i>essence</i>, or abstractly <i>assurance</i> (objectively or subjectively): - confidence, confident person, substance.</div>
<u><i>Evidence</i></u> -<span style="font-family: arial,sans serif;"><i><b> Elegchos</b></i></span> (el-eng-khos) is defined as; <i>proof, conviction</i>: - evidence, reproof, and is taken from a root word <span style="font-family: arial,sans serif;"><i><b>elegcho</b></i></span> (el-eng-kho) meaning to confute, admonish: - convict, convince, tell a fault, rebuke, reprove.<br />
It is interesting to note that<i><span style="font-family: arial; font-weight: bold;"> hupostasis</span></i> is only translated into substance in Hebrews 11:1. Otherwise it is translated as;<br />
<ul>
<li>confident or confidence (2 Cor 9:4, 11:17, Heb 3:14/NKJV)</li>
<li>person or nature (Heb 1:3/NKJV &amp; NASB respectively)</li>
</ul>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b> <i>H</i></b></span><i><span style="font-family: arial;">upostasis</span><span style="font-family: arial; font-weight: bold;"> </span></i>not only means assurance or confidence, but also implies support and when used in a concrete way it means essence, so when Hebrews 11:1 says; <span style="color: #446666;">"...faith is the substance of things hoped for..." (NKJV)</span> the Greek word shows that faith is assurance/confidence "of things hoped for" and that the "things hoped for" are supported by faith. i.e. faith gives substance/essence (not in a literal sense) to our hopes (as long as they are aligned with God's will). So our definition;<br />
<b><u><i>"Now an intimate and personal trust in the truthfulness of God and the reliability of His word is the essential nature of things hoped for, the proof of things not seen."</i></u></b> needs to be modified;<br />
<b>"<u>Now an intimate and personal trust in the truthfulness of God and the reliability of His word is</u><i> <span style="background-color: yellow;">the confidence or assurance we have</span></i> <u>of things hoped for, the proof</u> <span style="background-color: yellow;">or conviction</span> <u>of things not seen.</u></b><b> </b><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>H</b><b></b></span>owever, faith does not stop there as true faith goes beyond mere confession. When <span style="color: #446666;">Hebrews 11:1</span> states; <span style="color: #446666;">"...faith is...the evidence of things not seen." (NKJV)</span><br />
<h5>
<u><u>WHAT FAITH DOES</u></u></h5>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b> I</b></span>t is saying faith is the conviction that the "things not seen" will become reality, so in essence faith becomes an "outward sign of things not seen". This is supported by the rest of Hebrews 11 as it gives examples of faith in action;<br />
<span style="color: #446666;">"By faith Noah, being divinely warned of things not yet seen, moved with godly fear, prepared an ark for the saving of his household, by which he condemned the world and became heir of the righteousness which is according to faith." <span style="font-weight: bold;">(Hebrews 11:7/NKJV see also Genesis 6:1 - 8:22)</span><br />
<br />
"By faith Abraham obeyed when he was called to go out to the place which he would receive as an inheritance. And he went out, not knowing where he was going." <span style="font-weight: bold;">(Hebrews 11:8/NKJV see also Genesis 12:1-9)</span><br />
<br />
"By faith the walls of Jericho fell down after they were encircled for seven days. By faith the harlot Rahab did not perish with those who did not believe, when she had received the spies with peace." <span style="font-weight: bold;">(Hebrews 11:30, 31/NKJV see also Joshua 2:1ff &amp; 6:1ff)</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b> L</b></span>ooking at the first example we see Noah shows faith by building and preparing the ark. Additionally, not only did Noah work on the ark himself but also involved his family. This was no small task considering the ark was a huge vessel which took them 120 years to make. So, for Noah (and his family) the "outward sign of things hoped for" was a three story boat roughly 450 feet/135 meters long, 75 feet/ 22.5 meters wide and 45 feet/13.5 meters high which took 120 years to build. Furthermore, not only did Noah and his family build the ark, but they had to gather and prepare all the materials to build it as well as gather all the provisions needed for themselves and the animals while they were in the ark. In essence there was <span style="font-size: small;"><u><b>no way</b></u></span> Noah could hide his faith in God.<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b> S</b></span>o the ark was definitely an "outward sign of things not seen"; <br />
<ul>
<li>Noah could not see God.</li>
<li>Noah could not see all the animals much less collect or get to all of them.</li>
<li>Noah could not see any rain on the horizon (remember it took 120 years to build the ark)</li>
</ul>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b> I</b></span>n addition, many believe that up until Noah's time there had never been rain on the earth, if this was the case then the idea of water falling from the sky would seem ludicrous at best and insane at worst. So, true faith produces action. This is very important to note as this demonstrates the difference between true faith and belief. Scripture plainly shows that faith is not just belief, James hits the nail on the head;<br />
<span style="color: #446666;">"But someone may well say, "You have faith and I have works; show me your faith without the works, and I will show you my faith by my works." <span style="font-weight: bold;">(James 2:18/NASB)</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b> F</b></span>urthermore, James also states;<br />
<span style="color: #446666;">"You believe that God is one You do well; the demons also believe, and shudder." (James 2:19/NASB)</span><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEga8-kUOSd5UkKWkv2WKS7l1W-0xjBseKdofRgcNT4MCfB4wL4-iEKoNdAhmHn3QSBS20CxpHmO6yrKjFh4oLHcSwhjDvJM4U3F4uwPJQ62dpPoTz1owj_agMDzB-j9XdVBtetz/s1600/fallen_angel.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEga8-kUOSd5UkKWkv2WKS7l1W-0xjBseKdofRgcNT4MCfB4wL4-iEKoNdAhmHn3QSBS20CxpHmO6yrKjFh4oLHcSwhjDvJM4U3F4uwPJQ62dpPoTz1owj_agMDzB-j9XdVBtetz/s1600/fallen_angel.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; float: right; height: 320px; margin: 0 -5px 0 5px; width: 259px;" /></a><span style="font-size: large;"><b> T</b></span>he fact is that demons know there is a God, being fallen angels means they have had the opportunity to experience God in a way we as humans will not until after we pass on from this earthly plain. Yet demons do not exercise any faith in God other then the certainty that they will be judged and condemned. Obviously it is one thing to say I believe in God and quite another to have and manifest faith in God. True faith is not someone simply stating, "I believe in God."<br />
<br />
*<span style="font-size: large;"><b>NOTE</b></span>: all definitions are from <i><b>Strong's Greek Dictionary of the New Testament</b></i><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #446666; font-style: italic;">"Simul iustus et peccator"</span>*<br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">*Martin Luther</span></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkq7BhOCxGDhtpyAq6r9AW2Pil58NR-hrrkYVAULGzkDEC1tIM5RDHhO04iNzWZYhyaiSW0NyQM2GTIDIjXgOOohlbNu0WyHtvj8oRoxSxe4ysFEl7_neuzZXCyxEKg0osBocy/s1600-h/mangren.png"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5429180750783427682" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkq7BhOCxGDhtpyAq6r9AW2Pil58NR-hrrkYVAULGzkDEC1tIM5RDHhO04iNzWZYhyaiSW0NyQM2GTIDIjXgOOohlbNu0WyHtvj8oRoxSxe4ysFEl7_neuzZXCyxEKg0osBocy/s320/mangren.png" style="border: medium none; cursor: pointer; float: right; height: 26px; margin: -10px 30px 10px -30px; width: 48px;" /></a><br />
<span style="font-size: 85%;">cowboy image source;<br />
<a href="http://www.visualphotos.com/image/2x2735479/cowboy_riding_horse_through_plains">Visualphotos; Cowboy Riding Horse through Plains</a><br />
fallen angel image source;<br />
<a href="http://www.canvasreplicas.com/Dore118.htm">CanvasReplicas; Paradise Lost</a></span><span style="color: #446666;"> </span></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-27640109.post-55783719548239741932011-08-07T07:16:00.000-07:002011-08-07T07:16:36.134-07:00<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh24IpzZMXmBU5g0rxWEZVRrpwdVHEQ4I4udqpvJCfhSZ1GxJ7GwgIdlc9iaJBHMYkgm5UCV7SEcHQjW05XjIhNMuefevgMyGQrMpJxe3LN9Um9a5kiuYwHW1eZsRqvxkoXKecI/s1600/dove8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="234" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh24IpzZMXmBU5g0rxWEZVRrpwdVHEQ4I4udqpvJCfhSZ1GxJ7GwgIdlc9iaJBHMYkgm5UCV7SEcHQjW05XjIhNMuefevgMyGQrMpJxe3LN9Um9a5kiuYwHW1eZsRqvxkoXKecI/s320/dove8.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div style="font-family: eurostile, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 180%; font-weight: bold;">AUGUST - FIRST SUNDAY PASSAGE</span><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #446666; font-style: italic;">"Ave Christus, morituri te salutamus!"</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: eurostile,sans-serif; font-size: large; font-weight: bold;">Romans 1-2<br />
<span style="font-size: small;">(New King James Version)<br />
<br />
Romans1<br />
<u>Greetings</u></span></span><br />
<br />
<div style="-moz-border-radius: 5px; -webkit-radius: 5px; background-image: url('https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipYkGTkwAUcz8RYQ48yUviy-rAJE8amLxMoGZVNR6DuNER8EHhHMwNaQ6MW_XeOFsKV9yPW5ugDi5rjkZbauSWDhZtoq8JDFf_drK3CrKd4ldbYMLZ3rbHrUaubIfESVLee0VX/s320/parchment7.jpg'); border: 2px outset #f5deb3; font-family: papyrus, sans-serif; font-size: 120%; font-weight: bold; padding: 5px 5px 5px 10px; text-align: left;"><sup><u>1</u></sup> Paul, a bondservant of Jesus Christ, called <i>to be</i> an apostle, separated to the gospel of God<br />
<sup><u>2</u></sup> which He promised before through His prophets in the Holy Scriptures,<br />
<sup><u>3</u></sup> concerning His Son Jesus Christ our Lord, who was born of the seed of David according to the flesh,<br />
<sup><u>4</u></sup> <i>and</i> declared <i>to be</i> the Son of God with power according to the Spirit of holiness, by the resurrection from the dead.<br />
<sup><u>5</u></sup> Through Him we have received grace and apostleship for obedience to the faith among all nations for His name,<br />
<sup><u>6</u></sup> among whom you also are the called of Jesus Christ;<br />
<sup><u>7</u></sup> To all who are in Rome, beloved of God, called <i>to be</i> saints: Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.</div><br />
<b><span style="font-size: small;"><u>Desire to Visit Rome</u></span></b><br />
<br />
<div style="-moz-border-radius: 5px; -webkit-radius: 5px; background-image: url('https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipYkGTkwAUcz8RYQ48yUviy-rAJE8amLxMoGZVNR6DuNER8EHhHMwNaQ6MW_XeOFsKV9yPW5ugDi5rjkZbauSWDhZtoq8JDFf_drK3CrKd4ldbYMLZ3rbHrUaubIfESVLee0VX/s320/parchment7.jpg'); border: 2px outset #f5deb3; font-family: papyrus, sans-serif; font-size: 120%; font-weight: bold; padding: 5px 5px 5px 10px; text-align: left;"><sup><u>8</u></sup> First, I thank my God through Jesus Christ for you all, that your faith is spoken of throughout the whole world.<br />
<sup><u>9</u></sup> For God is my witness, whom I serve with my spirit in the gospel of His Son, that without ceasing I make mention of you always in my prayers,<br />
<sup><u>10</u></sup> making request if, by some means, now at last I may find a way in the will of God to come to you.<br />
<sup><u>11</u></sup> For I long to see you, that I may impart to you some spiritual gift, so that you may be established—<br />
<sup><u>12</u></sup> that is, that I may be encouraged together with you by the mutual faith both of you and me. <br />
<sup><u>13</u></sup> Now I do not want you to be unaware, brethren, that I often planned to come to you (but was hindered until now), that I might have some fruit among you also, just as among the other Gentiles.<br />
<sup><u>14</u></sup> I am a debtor both to Greeks and to barbarians, both to wise and to unwise.<br />
<sup><u>15</u></sup> So, as much as is in me, <i>I am</i> ready to preach the gospel to you who are in Rome also.</div><br />
<b><span style="font-size: small;"><u>The Just Live by Faith</u></span></b><br />
<br />
<div style="-moz-border-radius: 5px; -webkit-radius: 5px; background-image: url('https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipYkGTkwAUcz8RYQ48yUviy-rAJE8amLxMoGZVNR6DuNER8EHhHMwNaQ6MW_XeOFsKV9yPW5ugDi5rjkZbauSWDhZtoq8JDFf_drK3CrKd4ldbYMLZ3rbHrUaubIfESVLee0VX/s320/parchment7.jpg'); border: 2px outset #f5deb3; font-family: papyrus, sans-serif; font-size: 120%; font-weight: bold; padding: 5px 5px 5px 10px; text-align: left;"><sup><u>16</u></sup> For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ, for it is the power of God to salvation for everyone who believes, for the Jew first and also for the Greek.<br />
<sup><u>17</u></sup> For in it the righteousness of God is revealed from faith to faith; as it is written, <i> “The just shall live by faith.”</i></div><br />
<b><span style="font-size: small;"><u>God's Wrath on Unrighteousness</u></span></b><br />
<br />
<div style="-moz-border-radius: 5px; -webkit-radius: 5px; background-image: url('https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipYkGTkwAUcz8RYQ48yUviy-rAJE8amLxMoGZVNR6DuNER8EHhHMwNaQ6MW_XeOFsKV9yPW5ugDi5rjkZbauSWDhZtoq8JDFf_drK3CrKd4ldbYMLZ3rbHrUaubIfESVLee0VX/s320/parchment7.jpg'); border: 2px outset #f5deb3; font-family: papyrus, sans-serif; font-size: 120%; font-weight: bold; padding: 5px 5px 5px 10px; text-align: left;"><sup><u>18</u></sup> For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who suppress the truth in unrighteousness,<br />
<sup><u>19</u></sup> because what may be known of God is manifest in them, for God has shown <i>it</i> to them.<br />
<sup><u>20</u></sup> For since the creation of the world His invisible <i>attributes</i> are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, <i>even</i> His eternal power and Godhead, so that they are without excuse,<br />
<sup><u>21</u></sup> because, although they knew God, they did not glorify <i>Him</i> as God, nor were thankful, but became futile in their thoughts, and their foolish hearts were darkened.<br />
<sup><u>22</u></sup> Professing to be wise, they became fools,<br />
<sup><u>23</u></sup> and changed the glory of the incorruptible God into an image made like corruptible man—and birds and four-footed animals and creeping things. <br />
<sup><u>24</u></sup> Therefore God also gave them up to uncleanness, in the lusts of their hearts, to dishonor their bodies among themselves,<br />
<sup><u>25</u></sup> who exchanged the truth of God for the lie, and worshiped and served the creature rather than the Creator, who is blessed forever. Amen. <br />
<sup><u>26</u></sup> For this reason God gave them up to vile passions. For even their women exchanged the natural use for what is against nature.<br />
<sup><u>27</u></sup> Likewise also the men, leaving the natural use of the woman, burned in their lust for one another, men with men committing what is shameful, and receiving in themselves the penalty of their error which was due. <br />
<sup><u>28</u></sup> And even as they did not like to retain God in <i>their</i> knowledge, God gave them over to a debased mind, to do those things which are not fitting;<br />
<sup><u>29</u></sup> being filled with all unrighteousness, sexual immorality, wickedness, covetousness, maliciousness; full of envy, murder, strife, deceit, evil-mindedness; <i>they are</i> whisperers,<br />
<sup><u>30</u></sup> backbiters, haters of God, violent, proud, boasters, inventors of evil things, disobedient to parents,<br />
<sup><u>31</u></sup> undiscerning, untrustworthy, unloving, unforgiving, unmerciful;<br />
<sup><u>32</u></sup> who, knowing the righteous judgment of God, that those who practice such things are deserving of death, not only do the same but also approve of those who practice them.</div><br />
<b><span style="font-size: small;">Romans2<br />
<u>God's Righteous Judgement</u></span></b><br />
<br />
<div style="-moz-border-radius: 5px; -webkit-radius: 5px; background-image: url('https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipYkGTkwAUcz8RYQ48yUviy-rAJE8amLxMoGZVNR6DuNER8EHhHMwNaQ6MW_XeOFsKV9yPW5ugDi5rjkZbauSWDhZtoq8JDFf_drK3CrKd4ldbYMLZ3rbHrUaubIfESVLee0VX/s320/parchment7.jpg'); border: 2px outset #f5deb3; font-family: papyrus, sans-serif; font-size: 120%; font-weight: bold; padding: 5px 5px 5px 10px; text-align: left;"><sup><u>1</u></sup>Therefore you are inexcusable, O man, whoever you are who judge, for in whatever you judge another you condemn yourself; for you who judge practice the same things.<br />
<sup><u>2</u></sup>But we know that the judgment of God is according to truth against those who practice such things.<br />
<sup><u>3</u></sup>And do you think this, O man, you who judge those practicing such things, and doing the same, that you will escape the judgment of God?<br />
<sup><u>4</u></sup>Or do you despise the riches of His goodness, forbearance, and longsuffering, not knowing that the goodness of God leads you to repentance?<br />
<sup><u>5</u></sup>But in accordance with your hardness and your impenitent heart you are treasuring up for yourself wrath in the day of wrath and revelation of the righteous judgment of God,<br />
<sup><u>6</u></sup>who <i> “will render to each one according to his deeds”</i>:<br />
<sup><u>7</u></sup>eternal life to those who by patient continuance in doing good seek for glory, honor, and immortality;<br />
<sup><u>8</u></sup>but to those who are self-seeking and do not obey the truth, but obey unrighteousness—indignation and wrath,<br />
<sup><u>9</u></sup>tribulation and anguish, on every soul of man who does evil, of the Jew first and also of the Greek;<br />
<sup><u>10</u></sup>but glory, honor, and peace to everyone who works what is good, to the Jew first and also to the Greek.<br />
<sup><u>11</u></sup>For there is no partiality with God.<br />
<sup><u>12</u></sup>For as many as have sinned without law will also perish without law, and as many as have sinned in the law will be judged by the law<br />
<sup><u>13</u></sup>(for not the hearers of the law <i>are</i> just in the sight of God, but the doers of the law will be justified;<br />
<sup><u>14</u></sup> for when Gentiles, who do not have the law, by nature do the things in the law, these, although not having the law, are a law to themselves,<br />
<sup><u>15</u></sup>who show the work of the law written in their hearts, their conscience also bearing witness, and between themselves <i>their</i> thoughts accusing or else excusing <i>them</i>)<br />
<sup><u>16</u></sup>in the day when God will judge the secrets of men by Jesus Christ, according to my gospel.</div><br />
<b><span style="font-size: small;"><u>The Jews Guilty as the Gentiles</u></span></b><br />
<br />
<div style="-moz-border-radius: 5px; -webkit-radius: 5px; background-image: url('https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipYkGTkwAUcz8RYQ48yUviy-rAJE8amLxMoGZVNR6DuNER8EHhHMwNaQ6MW_XeOFsKV9yPW5ugDi5rjkZbauSWDhZtoq8JDFf_drK3CrKd4ldbYMLZ3rbHrUaubIfESVLee0VX/s320/parchment7.jpg'); border: 2px outset #f5deb3; font-family: papyrus, sans-serif; font-size: 120%; font-weight: bold; padding: 5px 5px 5px 10px; text-align: left;"><sup><u>17</u></sup>Indeed you are called a Jew, and rest on the law, and make your boast in God,<br />
<sup><u>18</u></sup> and know <i>His</i> will, and approve the things that are excellent, being instructed out of the law,<br />
<sup><u>19</u></sup>and are confident that you yourself are a guide to the blind, a light to those who are in darkness,<br />
<sup><u>20</u></sup>an instructor of the foolish, a teacher of babes, having the form of knowledge and truth in the law.<br />
<sup><u>21</u></sup>You, therefore, who teach another, do you not teach yourself? You who preach that a man should not steal, do you steal?<br />
<sup><u>22</u></sup>You who say, “Do not commit adultery,” do you commit adultery? You who abhor idols, do you rob temples?<br />
<sup><u>23</u></sup>You who make your boast in the law, do you dishonor God through breaking the law?<br />
<sup><u>24</u></sup>For<i> “the name of God is</i> <i> blasphemed among the Gentiles because of you," </i>as it is written.</div><br />
<b><span style="font-size: small;"><u>Circumsion of No Avail</u></span></b><br />
<br />
<div style="-moz-border-radius: 5px; -webkit-radius: 5px; background-image: url('https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipYkGTkwAUcz8RYQ48yUviy-rAJE8amLxMoGZVNR6DuNER8EHhHMwNaQ6MW_XeOFsKV9yPW5ugDi5rjkZbauSWDhZtoq8JDFf_drK3CrKd4ldbYMLZ3rbHrUaubIfESVLee0VX/s320/parchment7.jpg'); border: 2px outset #f5deb3; font-family: papyrus, sans-serif; font-size: 120%; font-weight: bold; padding: 5px 5px 5px 10px; text-align: left;"><sup><u>25</u></sup>For circumcision is indeed profitable if you keep the law; but if you are a breaker of the law, your circumcision has become uncircumcision.<br />
<sup><u>26</u></sup>Therefore, if an uncircumcised man keeps the righteous requirements of the law, will not his uncircumcision be counted as circumcision?<br />
<sup><u>27</u></sup>And will not the physically uncircumcised, if he fulfills the law, judge you who, <i>even</i> with <i>your</i> written <i>code</i> and circumcision, <i>are</i> a transgressor of the law?<br />
<sup><u>28</u></sup>For he is not a Jew who <i>is one</i> outwardly, nor <i>is</i> circumcision that which <i>is</i> outward in the flesh;<br />
<sup><u>29</u></sup>but <i>he is</i> a Jew who <i>is one</i> inwardly; and circumcision <i>is that</i> of the heart, in the Spirit, not in the letter; whose praise <i>is</i> not from men but from God.</div><br />
<b><span style="font-size: small;">Romans3<br />
<u>God's Judgement Defended</u></span></b><br />
<br />
<div style="-moz-border-radius: 5px; -webkit-radius: 5px; background-image: url('https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipYkGTkwAUcz8RYQ48yUviy-rAJE8amLxMoGZVNR6DuNER8EHhHMwNaQ6MW_XeOFsKV9yPW5ugDi5rjkZbauSWDhZtoq8JDFf_drK3CrKd4ldbYMLZ3rbHrUaubIfESVLee0VX/s320/parchment7.jpg'); border: 2px outset #f5deb3; font-family: papyrus, sans-serif; font-size: 120%; font-weight: bold; padding: 5px 5px 5px 10px; text-align: left;"><sup><u>1</u></sup>What advantage then has the Jew, or what <i>is</i> the profit of circumcision?<br />
<sup><u>2</u></sup>Much in every way! Chiefly because to them were committed the oracles of God.<br />
<sup><u>3</u></sup>For what if some did not believe? Will their unbelief make the faithfulness of God without effect?<br />
<sup><u>4</u></sup> Certainly not! Indeed, let God be true but every man a liar. As it is written:<br />
<ul style="list-style: none;"><li><i>“ That You may be justified in Your words,</i></li>
<li><i>And may overcome when You are judged."</i></li>
</ul><sup><u>5</u></sup>But if our unrighteousness demonstrates the righteousness of God, what shall we say? <i>Is</i> God unjust who inflicts wrath? (I speak as a man.)<br />
<sup><u>6</u></sup>Certainly not! For then how will God judge the world? <br />
<sup><u>7</u></sup>For if the truth of God has increased through my lie to His glory, why am I also still judged as a sinner?<br />
<sup><u>8</u></sup>And <i>why</i> not <i>say,</i> “Let us do evil that good may come”?—as we are slanderously reported and as some affirm that we say. Their condemnation is just.</div><br />
<b><span style="font-size: small;"><u>All Have Sinned</u></span></b><br />
<br />
<div style="-moz-border-radius: 5px; -webkit-radius: 5px; background-image: url('https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipYkGTkwAUcz8RYQ48yUviy-rAJE8amLxMoGZVNR6DuNER8EHhHMwNaQ6MW_XeOFsKV9yPW5ugDi5rjkZbauSWDhZtoq8JDFf_drK3CrKd4ldbYMLZ3rbHrUaubIfESVLee0VX/s320/parchment7.jpg'); border: 2px outset #f5deb3; font-family: papyrus, sans-serif; font-size: 120%; font-weight: bold; padding: 5px 5px 5px 10px; text-align: left;"><sup><u>9</u></sup>What then? Are we better <i>than they?</i> Not at all. For we have previously charged both Jews and Greeks that they are all under sin. <br />
<sup><u>10</u></sup>As it is written: <br />
<i>“There is none righteous, no, not one;</i><br />
<sup><u>11</u></sup><i>There is none who understands;</i><br />
<i>There is none who seeks after God.</i><br />
<sup><u>12</u></sup><i>They have all turned aside;</i><br />
<i>They have together become unprofitable;</i><br />
<i>There is none who does good, no, not one."</i><br />
<sup><u>13</u></sup><i>“Their</i> <i>throat</i> <i>is</i> <i>an open</i> <i>tomb;</i><br />
<i>With their tongues they have practiced deceit";</i><br />
<i>“The poison of asps</i> <i>is</i> <i>under their lips";</i><br />
<sup><u>14</u></sup><i>“Whose mouth</i> <i>is</i> <i>full of cursing and bitterness."</i><br />
<sup><u>15</u></sup><i>“Their</i> <i>feet</i> <i>are</i> <i>swift to shed blood;</i><br />
<sup><u>16</u></sup><i>Destruction and misery</i> <i>are</i> <i>in their ways;</i><br />
<sup><u>17</u></sup><i>And the way of peace they have not known."</i><br />
<sup><u>18</u></sup><i>“There is no fear of God before their eyes."</i><br />
<sup><u>19</u></sup>Now we know that whatever the law says, it says to those who are under the law, that every mouth may be stopped, and all the world may become guilty before God.<br />
<sup><u>20</u></sup>Therefore by the deeds of the law no flesh will be justified in His sight, for by the law <i>is</i> the knowledge of sin.</div><br />
<b><span style="font-size: small;"><u>God's Righteousness Through Faith</u></span></b><br />
<br />
<div style="-moz-border-radius: 5px; -webkit-radius: 5px; background-image: url('https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipYkGTkwAUcz8RYQ48yUviy-rAJE8amLxMoGZVNR6DuNER8EHhHMwNaQ6MW_XeOFsKV9yPW5ugDi5rjkZbauSWDhZtoq8JDFf_drK3CrKd4ldbYMLZ3rbHrUaubIfESVLee0VX/s320/parchment7.jpg'); border: 2px outset #f5deb3; font-family: papyrus, sans-serif; font-size: 120%; font-weight: bold; padding: 5px 5px 5px 10px; text-align: left;"><sup><u>21</u></sup>But now the righteousness of God apart from the law is revealed, being witnessed by the Law and the Prophets,<br />
<sup><u>22</u></sup>even the righteousness of God, through faith in Jesus Christ, to all and on all who believe. For there is no difference;<br />
<sup><u>23</u></sup>for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God,<br />
<sup>24</sup>being justified freely by His grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus,<br />
<sup><u>25</u></sup>whom God set forth <i>as</i> a propitiation by His blood, through faith, to demonstrate His righteousness, because in His forbearance God had passed over the sins that were previously committed,<br />
<sup><u>26</u></sup>to demonstrate at the present time His righteousness, that He might be just and the justifier of the one who has faith in Jesus.</div><br />
<b><span style="font-size: small;"><u>Boasting Excluded</u></span></b><br />
<br />
<div style="-moz-border-radius: 5px; -webkit-radius: 5px; background-image: url('https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipYkGTkwAUcz8RYQ48yUviy-rAJE8amLxMoGZVNR6DuNER8EHhHMwNaQ6MW_XeOFsKV9yPW5ugDi5rjkZbauSWDhZtoq8JDFf_drK3CrKd4ldbYMLZ3rbHrUaubIfESVLee0VX/s320/parchment7.jpg'); border: 2px outset #f5deb3; font-family: papyrus, sans-serif; font-size: 120%; font-weight: bold; padding: 5px 5px 5px 10px; text-align: left;"><sup><u>27</u></sup>Where <i>is</i> boasting then? It is excluded. By what law? Of works? No, but by the law of faith.<br />
<sup><u>28</u></sup>Therefore we conclude that a man is justified by faith apart from the deeds of the law.<br />
<sup><u>29</u></sup>Or <i>is He</i> the God of the Jews only? <i>Is He</i> not also the God of the Gentiles? Yes, of the Gentiles also,<br />
<sup><u>30</u></sup>since <i>there is</i> one God who will justify the circumcised by faith and the uncircumcised through faith.<br />
<sup><u>31</u></sup>Do we then make void the law through faith? Certainly not! On the contrary, we establish the law.</div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
<span style="color: #446666; font-style: italic;">"Simul iustus et peccator. "</span>*<br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">*Martin Luther</span></div></div><br />
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<span style="font-family: eurostile,sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">image re-design;<br />
<a href="http://mdbounarotti.tripod.com/bleuelle3.html">bleu elle</a><br />
original image source idea;<br />
<a href="http://spd.adventistconnect.org/our-logo-and-name">http://spd.adventistconnect.org/our-logo-and-name</a><br />
bible passage source;<br />
<a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Romans%201-3&version=NKJV">Bible Gateway; Romans 1-3</a></span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0