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| Re: Bulletin Board [message #12570 is a reply to message #12550] |
Thu, 25 October 2018 19:52   |
 james
Messages: 2142
Registered: April 2008
Location: Birmingham, AL |
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Marilyn,
What do you make of these scriptures: Matthew 28:18-20; Mark 16:15...Do you see this as only addressed to those eleven disciples there that day or do you believe it's a command for all believers throughout time until His return to present The Gospel (good news of Jesus Christ, the very good news) to every people group inhabiting this planet?
Yes, Jerusalem was/is and will be a light; but we're also told to be lights in this dark world. And I agree it's not our calling to change the world system and the controlling principalities over it; but we are told to pray for our leaders and to be examples of the love God has for mankind by our actions and interactions with them, loving them even as He has loved us and blessed us with mercy and grace that we no more deserve that they do. That's our calling, to pass on that awesome, life changing news. Gathering together to worship Him, disciple younger Christians, study His Word, and share His love one with another...yep, all the above...
But if the Gospel isn't to be taken to the nations by all believers for all time, then how did we come to this saving knowledge? Of course! We came to believe just like everyone else has...Romans 10:14-17 through the hearing of The Word. And if there weren't obedient followers sharing this new then we would still be lost in our sins without the hope given our hearts through the written revelation of God's plan of redemption for man. The faith to believe and the gift to repent are from God; and He IS sovereign in His selection of those He calls and chooses unto salvation, but from our side we are to plant the seeds, water, work the soil....and from His side He will get the increase He desires that will glorify Him.
“But God commendeth His love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us,”
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| Re: Bulletin Board [message #12631 is a reply to message #12570] |
Mon, 05 November 2018 22:34 |
james
Messages: 2142
Registered: April 2008
Location: Birmingham, AL |
Senior Member |
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Five words that says it all...
"That I may know Him..." Philippians 3:10a
What higher goal or priority is there for a Christian than what these five words says and mean?
Our pastor is teaching a series from Philippians and he shared how 25 years ago he read these scriptures for the first time and it changed his life. All Christians confess and profess Jesus as their Saviour, and many have made Him their Lord; but to how many of us has He became our supreme treasure, the pursuit of our life? There are good books written about pursuing God (A.W. Tozer) and knowing God (J.I.Packer), and they're great (in fact I'm going to a men's Bible study and we're going through "Knowing God" one chapter each week) But the question and challenge offered is this... are we, as was Paul, sold out to knowing Jesus? Do we count all else as dung in comparison to to being know and knowing Christ? Paul had it all, the resume of all resumes, yet he counted them as nothing and didn't look back, he pressed forward to the mark for the prize...the ultimate prize/treasure, Jesus Christ.
Let this be the reason we arise each day, to know Him.
“But God commendeth His love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us,”
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| Re: Bulletin Board [message #12632 is a reply to message #12631] |
Tue, 06 November 2018 00:37 |
Marilyn Crow
Messages: 598
Registered: September 2013
Location: Australia |
Senior Member |
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Hi James,
So very, very true. I certainly remember when I made the Lord, Lord of my life. From then on it has been a revealing of areas that needed addressing, and of letting go.
Step by step, and over the years I realise that the `things of this world grow strangely dim, in the light of His glory and grace.`
The very heart of the good news, is to `know the Lord.` And that, like any relationship takes time and experiences.
all the best, Marilyn.
Marilyn C
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| Re: Bulletin Board [message #12633 is a reply to message #12632] |
Tue, 06 November 2018 00:41 |
Marilyn Crow
Messages: 598
Registered: September 2013
Location: Australia |
Senior Member |
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Just thought - even the Apostle Paul went through a process -
He said `I am the least of the Apostles,`
`I am the least of the saints,`
`I am the greatest of sinners.`
See the progression. He also said that he learned to be content, and that is over time and experiences.
Marilyn C
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| Re: Bulletin Board [message #12634 is a reply to message #12633] |
Tue, 06 November 2018 19:41 |
james
Messages: 2142
Registered: April 2008
Location: Birmingham, AL |
Senior Member |
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| Marilyn Crow wrote on Mon, 05 November 2018 18:41 |
Just thought - even the Apostle Paul went through a process -
He said `I am the least of the Apostles,`
`I am the least of the saints,`
`I am the greatest of sinners.`
See the progression. He also said that he learned to be content, and that is over time and experiences.
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Yes he did go through a process and experience..... one minute Paul (Saul)was filled with pride, zealous in his hatred for Christians, with a pedigree that fostered pride/confidence in his flesh, circumcised; a Hebrew; of the tribe of Benjamin; a Pharisee; faultless in his keeping of the law. He was pridefully traveling down a road leading to Damascus with the paperwork that gave him the right by Jewish religious authority to persecute Christians.
The next minute he was on the ground, blinded, humbled, in the presence of Jesus Christ whom he was persecuting. He got a new name (Paul), a new heart, a new perspective, a new calling, and a new guide (The Holy Spirit).
Yep! Paul certainly had an experience...and he was NEVER the same, it all became dung to him, he KNEW he'd experienced God and nothing else mattered. Shipwrecks, beatings, imprisonment, cold, hunger, rejection ...none of it could steal the joy he'd found in Christ...he was content in whatever state he found himself in...He had Jesus...what else was there? Nothing!
“But God commendeth His love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us,”
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 Re: Bulletin Board [message #12653 is a reply to message #12634] |
Tue, 11 December 2018 15:59 |
james
Messages: 2142
Registered: April 2008
Location: Birmingham, AL |
Senior Member |
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All our works are as filthy rags in comparison to to Jesus’ sacrifice at the cross... It’s in Christ Jesus and Him alone that we can have any confidence of eternal life and salvation.
“But God forbid that I should glory, save in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom the world is crucified unto me, and I unto the world.”
Galatians 6:14
[Updated on: Tue, 11 December 2018 16:04]
“But God commendeth His love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us,”
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| Re: Bulletin Board [message #12654 is a reply to message #12653] |
Sat, 15 December 2018 15:40 |
james
Messages: 2142
Registered: April 2008
Location: Birmingham, AL |
Senior Member |
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Behold The Saviour...
“...Behold I bring you good tidings of great joy which shall be to all people.
For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior which is Christ the Lord.” Luke 2:10
Thank You Jesus...Thank you Father...Hallowed be Thy name in all the earth.
“But God commendeth His love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us,”
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| Re: Bulletin Board [message #12659 is a reply to message #12654] |
Mon, 14 January 2019 22:21 |
james
Messages: 2142
Registered: April 2008
Location: Birmingham, AL |
Senior Member |
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Hypocrisy, the blinding sin God hates...
"Thou hypocrite, first cast out the beam out of thine own eye; and then shalt thou see clearly to cast out the mote out of thy brother's eye."Matthew 7:5
Judging others when we haven't judged ourselves by the same standard we use to judge them by is the height of hypocrisy, and it also reveals we have a major 'blind spot' in our own lives.(plus a lack of maturity and compassion) Jesus is pointing out not only are we going to be judged accordingly as we judge others, but we are ignoring and hiding how though we may appear clean outwardly, we are filthy on the inside. The sin we're pointing out in another pales in comparison to the sin in our own live, and because we're blinded by this, we fail miserably in the big picture, they have a toothpick sized sin while ours is the size of a 12x12 8 ft wooden pilling. We're cisterns that don't hold water, clouds that produce no rain, fig trees without fruit when we are guilty of this sin (and we all have been at one time or another).
This teaching by Jesus is like unto when He taught us to pray, He said to forgive those who trespass against us if we expect forgiveness from God. We daily seek God's mercy and forgiveness; we should daily be offering forgiveness and mercy to those around us. He said if we can't love those around us that we can see, how do we think we love God whom we've never seen? Another example of hypocrisy.
“But God commendeth His love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us,”
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| Re: Bulletin Board [message #12669 is a reply to message #12659] |
Fri, 01 March 2019 17:04 |
james
Messages: 2142
Registered: April 2008
Location: Birmingham, AL |
Senior Member |
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PERSUASIVE VISION, ENDURING HOPE, SAVING FAITH...
Most of us who embraced the 'faith message' were totally expecting The Lord's return any day and we would be hard pressed to ever think we'd be here today (I didn't think we'd finish the 80's, the rapture would come), yet here we are (those that are left, many have gone on to be with The Lord) and I'm meditating on how important is it that we finish well, not taking our eyes off the vision God gave us those many years ago.
Hebrews 11:13 speaks of those saints of old who died in faith without receiving the promises, BUT, they had seen them from afar and were persuaded that they were going to receive them and held fast to that.
Romans 8:24-25 tells us that we are saved by hope, but even though we don't physically see the object of our hope if it's true hope/faith, we cling fast to it and patiently wait for it.
And now after all these years I see and understand things differently...not that God's Word has changed, we know that will never happen; but I now have a much better understanding and experience of God's Grace in relationship to 'faith'. I may be the only one, but my 'faith' was more about 'my' actions and abilities to 'overcome' rather than God's grace and mercy allowing me to. Ephesians 2:8-9 finally registered within my soul a few years back and it changed me...His GRACE changed me...and as Paul said in Philippians 3:12-14 I haven't arrived yet but I'm persuaded He who called me will keep me until I see His face.
“But God commendeth His love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us,”
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| Re: Bulletin Board [message #12670 is a reply to message #12669] |
Tue, 12 March 2019 13:18 |
james
Messages: 2142
Registered: April 2008
Location: Birmingham, AL |
Senior Member |
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"But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear." I Peter 3:15
“But God commendeth His love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us,”
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| Re: Bulletin Board [message #12671 is a reply to message #12670] |
Mon, 01 April 2019 01:12 |
james
Messages: 2142
Registered: April 2008
Location: Birmingham, AL |
Senior Member |
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This post is a continuation of thoughts I was sharing in the March 1 post I made concerning Persuasive Vision, Enduring Hope, Saving Faith...
“Women received their dead raised to life again: and OTHERS were tortured, not accepting deliverance; that they might obtain a better resurrection:
And OTHERS had trial of cruel mockings and scourgings, yea, moreover of bonds and imprisonment....”Hebrews 11:35-36
In reading “the faith” chapter in context and believing what it says the teachings that many of us once received as truth doesn’t bear up under plain reading of God’s Word, in my opinion.
Being taught that one can’t die “in faith” and overcomers with true faith “overcame “ whatever came against us doesn’t reflect what Scripture teaches and records.
Faith is required to please God, but not faith in a quote unquote “faith message” and formula, but rather faith in God. These “heroes of faith “ listed here in chapter eleven did all these things “by faith” and many triumphed gloriously...
People brought back from the dead; escaped fire; stopped the mouths of lions;subdued kingdoms......But OTHERS didn’t....some died, some suffered persecution and some were killed, others wandered about destitute and afflicted and NEVER received the promises in their lifetime...yet, they ALL obtained a good report through faith, Why, because their faith was grounded in God and His Word and they remained faithful to Him unto death.
Someone misinterpreted scripture when they taught overcomers couldn’t die in faith... and I believe many godly people lived with condemnation and false guilt because of it.
Christians going through sickness, disease, divorce, and other afflictions, trials, temptations shouldn't be brought under condemnation and alienation because they are experiencing hardships. Yes, absolutely God chastens those He loves for correction and for our good because we're His children.
He also says through Paul in Acts 14:22 we must endure much tribulation; and we're told in James 1:2-12 we will face adversity. I Peter 1:6 and 5:10 speak to the fact that believers will go through adversity to perfect us and that it is even necessary at times. But then comes this scripture of encouragement which we can cling to when going through temptations...
"There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man:
but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it." I Corinthians 10:13
Hebrews eleven ends with this "God having provided some better thing for us, that they without us should not be made perfect." What is that better thing He provided? JESUS The cross, redemption, GRACE, one body, one people...no divide between Jew and Gentile, man/ woman...no more law written on stone but His Word written on our hearts; our Great High Priest, The King of Kings and Lord of Lords...JESUS
[Updated on: Mon, 01 April 2019 20:50]
“But God commendeth His love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us,”
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| Re: Bulletin Board [message #12674 is a reply to message #12671] |
Wed, 01 May 2019 22:49 |
 Mark L
Messages: 860
Registered: October 2006
Location: Canada |
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I have to agree with a lot of what you said there James. Without disagreeing with you though I'd like to throw my thoughts in. Let me say this. I think the faith message taught our confession was to be faith to faith and nothing but faith but with an eye to the awareness there was something bigger than our faith and that is Gods will.
A perfect eg of that is Bro Freeman himself. As I have stated elsewhere on these pages I think his work here was done and for that reason and some others God took him home. That sure wasn't his confession and faith but there was something bigger than his faith. Gods will.
I've been listening to some of the old tapes lately (which someone is posting on Youtube). HEF was talking about that very subject on Numbering our days. Living/dying vs Gods will and how we always need to live with that awareness.
Anyway I just wanted to throw a comment in on what you said.
You can read
"Meanderings on Scripture by Mark
https://mlederman.substack.com/
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| Re: Bulletin Board [message #12675 is a reply to message #12669] |
Sat, 11 May 2019 16:10 |
james
Messages: 2142
Registered: April 2008
Location: Birmingham, AL |
Senior Member |
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FAITH AND HOPE...and GOD
There are many scriptures where hope and faith are explained, taught, encouraged, and made clear as required. But one central truth is found concerning godly faith and hope...they're given to us by God. Ephesians 2:8-9 explains it clearly. In I Peter chapter one we're told of the lively hope we have in Jesus' resurrection and that we're kept by the power of God through faith which we have been given, unto salvation. Also in this chapter Peter writes that we're to hope to the end for the grace that will be brought to us at the revelation of Jesus Christ.
Again in verse 21 we're told that we believe that God by Him raised Jesus from the dead and gave Him Glory...so "that your faith and hope might be in God."
God's sovereignty and His predetermined (predestination) plan of redemption for fallen mankind reveal His Love for us...us who wouldn't have sought Him out in a million years...
"But God commendeth His love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us." Romans 5:8
“But God commendeth His love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us,”
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| Re: Bulletin Board [message #12676 is a reply to message #12675] |
Tue, 21 May 2019 16:45 |
james
Messages: 2142
Registered: April 2008
Location: Birmingham, AL |
Senior Member |
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Decision Making Words Starting with the Letter C found in Romans 7&8
COMMANDMENT (law)
CONCUPISCENCE
CONVICTION
CONVERSION
CONFLICT
CONSENT
CAPTIVITY
CONDEMNATION
CHRIST
First the commandments of God (law) are made known unto a person so that one knows what is sin (lust and concupiscence) verses 7&8
Then with the knowledge and definition of sin conviction comes as one sees the internal struggles and hopelessness of oneself to overcome and obey. v10&11
Leading to conversion (turning to Jesus in repentance)
With this new life comes conflict as the 'new spiritual man' seeks to follow after righteousness, while the 'old sinful fleshly man' seeks to continue to follow the flesh and it's lusts. v15-19
Paul describes in verses 20 through 23 the gut wretched struggles that every follower of Christ experiences in trying to understand the spiritual war within our minds...and the condemnation the enemy bombards us with.
But then comes the answer, Jesus Christ. Paul explains throughout chapter eight our position in Christ and the household of God and encourages our faith and delivers hope.
“But God commendeth His love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us,”
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| Re: Bulletin Board [message #12681 is a reply to message #12676] |
Wed, 19 June 2019 16:03 |
james
Messages: 2142
Registered: April 2008
Location: Birmingham, AL |
Senior Member |
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It's summer and starting to get hot, shades are sought often during the heat of the day. I was thinking about one of my favorite psalms, Psalms 91 and how the writer uses God's protection offered as being under the shadow of The Almighty. A giant oak tree casts a big shadow (shade) and one can find relief from the oppressiveness of the days' heat by going and getting beneath it. But notice we have to take the action to GO and get under it, the tree doesn't come chasing after us to offer shade and protection from the elements.
God tells us in His Word that he (anyone) that dwells in the secret place of The Most High, shall abide under the shadow of The Almighty (God)...This is speaking of God's protection, but it isn't automatic, there's a requirement, one must dwell there in God's presence in order to be protected and under His shadow (like the analogy of the oak tree).
God's GRACE offers believer so much (in fact IT offers us everything we possibly need in order to live our lives according to His plan for us)...salvation, remission of ALL sins, His righteousness, protection, provision, healing, eternal life with Him, joy, peace, love, ect......it's all there waiting for us, all we must do is BELIEVE in the Grace of God manifest in the person of Jesus ( which is His death, burial, and resurrection) and turn from our self centered sins, which is to repent, and even to do this is a gift given by Him.
"He that dwelleth in the secret place of the most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty."Psalms 91:1
“But God commendeth His love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us,”
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| Re: Bulletin Board [message #12880 is a reply to message #12681] |
Fri, 18 October 2019 19:34 |
james
Messages: 2142
Registered: April 2008
Location: Birmingham, AL |
Senior Member |
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The Real Bread...
We live in a body of flesh yet we're told to walk in the spirit and not after the flesh. Throughout scripture we're taught that "bread" is representative of food. God provided bread from heaven (manna) for the children of Israel's physical bodies nourishment.
But when Jesus came He reveals the real bread, Himself. In John 6:32-58 Jesus explains the much deeper truth about what all men really need, Him, the bread of life as eternal life when all spiritual needs are satisfied in Him (hunger and thirst)
As much emphasis as we place on our daily physical bread 🥖 How much more should we be diligently focusing on the real bread Jesus. His Words are life and given us freely to consume daily.
“But God commendeth His love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us,”
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| Re: Bulletin Board [message #12896 is a reply to message #12880] |
Sun, 03 November 2019 18:30 |
james
Messages: 2142
Registered: April 2008
Location: Birmingham, AL |
Senior Member |
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Assurance...
Our pastor has been teaching on I John for several weeks, solid foundational truths. "How we can know " has been mentioned by many as the point of John's writing. Our Father wants us to know and understand our standing in Christ and be comforted by these truths. The last few verses of I John 3 gives us reminders of what Jesus' sacrifice at Calvary has accomplished for believers. Freedom from condemnation can only come when we learn to stand in faith on God's Word.
This quote from a book titled "Extravagant Grace" by a lady named Barbara Duguid helps by putting what Jesus did in perspective.
"If you are United with Christ today, the number of sins you will commit in your lifetime is a finite number, and they were ALL paid for in FULL before you emerged from your mother's womb."
“But God commendeth His love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us,”
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| Re: Bulletin Board [message #12901 is a reply to message #12896] |
Sun, 10 November 2019 22:32 |
james
Messages: 2142
Registered: April 2008
Location: Birmingham, AL |
Senior Member |
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Faiths Focus
I heard this quote recently and it has been on my mind.
"It's not the strength of your faith, it's the object of your faith that saves you."
Of course the object should be Jesus, not memorized "faith" passages or the ability to give a Biblical definition of the word. It's Jesus and unwavering trust in Him that saves.
Daniel 3:18 is an awesome example of faith in God. The three young Hebrew men committed themselves into God's hand and trusted the outcome to Him and His sovereignty. They refused to worship Nebuchadnezzar's golden image trusting God to deliver them; but they didn't know the outcome beforehand, and thus made this statement, "But if not"... meaning even if He doesn't deliver us we're still trusting Him. Their faith was in Jesus and obedience to Him was their choice regardless.
“But God commendeth His love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us,”
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| Re: Bulletin Board [message #12902 is a reply to message #12896] |
Sun, 17 November 2019 19:32 |
james
Messages: 2142
Registered: April 2008
Location: Birmingham, AL |
Senior Member |
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More on Assurance...
"Blessed assurance Jesus is mine,
Oh what a foretaste of glory divine
Heirs of salvation .....
This is my story, this is my song
Praising my Saviour all the day long "
lyrics by Fanny Crosby
"Your faith will not fail while God sustains it; you are not strong
enough to fall away while God is resolved to hold you."
J I Packer
"My sheep hear my voice and I know them, and they follow me:
And I give unto them eternal life: and they shall never perish, neither
shall any man pluck them out of my hand.
My Father, which gave them me, is greater than all:
and no man is able to pluck them out of my Father's hand.
I and my Father are one,"
John 10:27-30
“But God commendeth His love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us,”
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| Re: Bulletin Board [message #12904 is a reply to message #12570] |
Sat, 30 November 2019 04:55 |
Marilyn Crow
Messages: 598
Registered: September 2013
Location: Australia |
Senior Member |
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james wrote on Thu, 25 October 2018 19:52Marilyn,
What do you make of these scriptures: Matthew 28:18-20; Mark 16:15...Do you see this as only addressed to those eleven disciples there that day or do you believe it's a command for all believers throughout time until His return to present The Gospel (good news of Jesus Christ, the very good news) to every people group inhabiting this planet?
Yes, Jerusalem was/is and will be a light; but we're also told to be lights in this dark world. And I agree it's not our calling to change the world system and the controlling principalities over it; but we are told to pray for our leaders and to be examples of the love God has for mankind by our actions and interactions with them, loving them even as He has loved us and blessed us with mercy and grace that we no more deserve that they do. That's our calling, to pass on that awesome, life changing news. Gathering together to worship Him, disciple younger Christians, study His Word, and share His love one with another...yep, all the above...
But if the Gospel isn't to be taken to the nations by all believers for all time, then how did we come to this saving knowledge? Of course! We came to believe just like everyone else has...Romans 10:14-17 through the hearing of The Word. And if there weren't obedient followers sharing this new then we would still be lost in our sins without the hope given our hearts through the written revelation of God's plan of redemption for man. The faith to believe and the gift to repent are from God; and He IS sovereign in His selection of those He calls and chooses unto salvation, but from our side we are to plant the seeds, water, work the soil....and from His side He will get the increase He desires that will glorify Him.
Hi James,
I do agree with what you wrote. As to Matt.28: 18 -20, what specifically do you think that the disciples had to teach?
Sorry it took me so long to reply. I do have the time now to discuss, if you have time and want to do so.
Marilyn.
[Updated on: Sat, 30 November 2019 05:34]
Marilyn C
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| Re: Bulletin Board [message #12905 is a reply to message #12904] |
Sat, 30 November 2019 06:29 |
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william
Messages: 1468
Registered: January 2006 |
Senior Member
Administrator |
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Quote:
Marilyn Crow
Quote:james wrote on Thu, 25 October 2018 19:52
Marilyn,
What do you make of these scriptures: Matthew 28:18-20; Mark 16:15...Do you see this as only addressed to those eleven disciples there that day or do you believe it's a command for all believers throughout time until His return to present The Gospel (good news of Jesus Christ, the very good news) to every people group inhabiting this planet?
Yes, Jerusalem was/is and will be a light; but we're also told to be lights in this dark world. And I agree it's not our calling to change the world system and the controlling principalities over it; but we are told to pray for our leaders and to be examples of the love God has for mankind by our actions and interactions with them, loving them even as He has loved us and blessed us with mercy and grace that we no more deserve that they do. That's our calling, to pass on that awesome, life changing news. Gathering together to worship Him, disciple younger Christians, study His Word, and share His love one with another...yep, all the above...
But if the Gospel isn't to be taken to the nations by all believers for all time, then how did we come to this saving knowledge? Of course! We came to believe just like everyone else has...Romans 10:14-17 through the hearing of The Word. And if there weren't obedient followers sharing this new then we would still be lost in our sins without the hope given our hearts through the written revelation of God's plan of redemption for man. The faith to believe and the gift to repent are from God; and He IS sovereign in His selection of those He calls and chooses unto salvation, but from our side we are to plant the seeds, water, work the soil....and from His side He will get the increase He desires that will glorify Him.
Hi James,
I do agree with what you wrote. As to Matt.28: 18 -20, what specifically do you think that the disciples had to teach?
Sorry it took me so long to reply. I do have the time now to discuss, if you have time and want to do so.
Marilyn.
I think that James was referring to the situation (in some thread, somewhere!) where you "seemed" to be dividing the Body of Christ into separate entities with separate missions. (i.e. the Church, Israel, the body of Christ, Kings and Priests, etc.)
The Church encapsulates every born again believer whether he/she is an Israelite, or a gentile.
Mat.28 was the commission given to the Church and not just to the 11 Apostles.
To assume He was only referring to those present or even to the Israelites in general one would need to discount the gifts given to the Church (Eph 4:11f) which included apostles, prophets, evangelists and teachers, who presumably will be teaching all of the world/nations about the propitiatory work of Jesus on the Cross (i.e. the gospel!). These gifts are for the equipping of the saints (all of us and Israel too!)
Hope you are doing well!
Blessings,
William
I want to believe!
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| Re: Bulletin Board [message #12906 is a reply to message #12905] |
Sat, 30 November 2019 23:00 |
Marilyn Crow
Messages: 598
Registered: September 2013
Location: Australia |
Senior Member |
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Hi William,
Thanks for replying. Perhaps I should start an appropriate thread in a new section as I would like to discuss this topic.
Marilyn C
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| Re: Bulletin Board [message #12912 is a reply to message #12906] |
Mon, 02 December 2019 21:28 |
james
Messages: 2142
Registered: April 2008
Location: Birmingham, AL |
Senior Member |
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Hi Marilyn,
Wow! both you and Gary showing up at the same time, must be the turkey and dressing made ya'll miss your old OO friends. 
I have lost the memory of whatever sparked my question a couple years ago, but I think William has the jest of my thoughts.
I tend to lean towards the simplicity of Jesus' teaching of loving God with all our hearts and our neighbor as ourselves. All of Matthew chapters five, six, and seven are teachings of conduct, attitude, how to pray, how to give, how to fast, the principles of forgiveness, humility, ect. Obviously He taught them to present The Gospel of salvation through faith in Him and Him alone and baptism. He wanted them to teach and explain to those who believed concerning the end times and the signs that would precede His return.
But I'm thinking you have something specific in mind that your uncle taught you that you'd like to present, I could be wrong, but either way I'll head over to the thread you started and check it out.
“But God commendeth His love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us,”
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| Re: Bulletin Board [message #12913 is a reply to message #12547] |
Mon, 02 December 2019 21:49 |
james
Messages: 2142
Registered: April 2008
Location: Birmingham, AL |
Senior Member |
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james wrote on Mon, 24 September 2018 16:18Called To Make A Difference...
Matthew 5:13-16 is straight from the mouth of Jesus, it's to us, all who name the Name of Christ. So why is our (the body of Christ/church) witness/influence not bearing more fruit? Why is it that we don't shine forth like a light on a hill? Why aren't the lost convicted of their ungodliness by our life's witness?
Charles Spurgeon said this in a sermon over 100 years ago:
"I believe that one reason why the church of God at this present moment has so little influence over the world is because the world has so much influence over the church."
We (the church/body of Christ), look and act so much like the world that what light is there is just a flickering candle as opposed to a shining bright light giving hope to those lost and walking in darkness. Our lives should draw people to God and His Glory, showing the way for them to behold the wonder of God and His great love. Leading to faith and trust in Jesus and His work at Calvary to redeem lost sinners.
Again as with almost everything I post on this forum I'm writing first to remind myself, then if someone else can be encouraged/edified/exhorted/admonished to good works and reminded of what we all already know we should be doing (but so often aren't), then praise the Lord.
Ok, I see this is what I posted last year that lead to Marilyn's post/reply that lead me to ask the question concerning Matthew 28 (The Great Commission)
I've tried to be consistent by regularly stating that most of what I have posted over the last 10-12 years on OO has been for the encouragement, edification, exhortation for fellow believers and that I'm first and foremost speaking to myself, knowing full well of the Grace that's been bestowed on me and my need to be daily reminded of that fact, not in order to straighten anyone out.
So with that in mind and an open mind, start sharing Marilyn.
“But God commendeth His love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us,”
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| Re: Bulletin Board [message #12915 is a reply to message #12913] |
Tue, 03 December 2019 01:12 |
Marilyn Crow
Messages: 598
Registered: September 2013
Location: Australia |
Senior Member |
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Hi James,
Oh that is ....God...bringing us together again? we`ll see. and I do appreciate God`s gift in you of such encouragement, exhortation and edification. That is what builds up the Body of Christ. And as you have said, giftings, mine is also to encourage but also `exhortation/warning.` I see an `error` and then like to bring in the truth. This I know you all do here, so I appreciate you all giving me time and space to present what I see needs to be addressed.
I`m going a step at a time with the topic and appreciate any input.
regards, Marilyn.
Marilyn C
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| Re: Bulletin Board [message #12953 is a reply to message #12915] |
Sun, 08 December 2019 19:23 |
james
Messages: 2142
Registered: April 2008
Location: Birmingham, AL |
Senior Member |
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Significance of a tree in the life of believers. Think about this truth, the first Adam, because of his actions at a tree (disobeyed God) , brought condemnation upon all men.
The last Adam (Jesus), because of His actions ON a tree, brought redemption to all who will believe.
But it's the choice made that is really significant. And faith in Him who died for us on that tree is of uttermost significance to us.
“But God commendeth His love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us,”
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| Re: Bulletin Board [message #13013 is a reply to message #12964] |
Sun, 22 December 2019 16:01 |
james
Messages: 2142
Registered: April 2008
Location: Birmingham, AL |
Senior Member |
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Jesus loves me, this I KNOW
For the BIBLE tells me so.
John 3:16
John 15:9
Romans 5:8
Romans 8:35-39
Ephesians 2:4-8
“But God commendeth His love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us,”
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| Re: Bulletin Board [message #13016 is a reply to message #13013] |
Tue, 24 December 2019 14:38 |
james
Messages: 2142
Registered: April 2008
Location: Birmingham, AL |
Senior Member |
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"And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.
For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord."
Luke 2:10-11
Good tidings
Great joy
To ALL people
A Saviour
Christ the Lord
JESUS
He came for one purpose, to save man ( who could in no way save ourselves) from our sins. Before He could pay the price of our redemption through His sacrificial death, He had to be born. Yet Jesus never told believers to celebrate
His birth, only His death and resurrection (which is communion of the bread and cup, in remembrance and thanksgiving ) Should Christians rejoice and be glad that He was born? Duh! Of course. We shouldn't ignore the birth of Christ, it should be a daily celebration in our hearts just as His sacrifice at Calvary and resurrection is daily on our minds. But what has evolved through the years that is called Christmas 🎄 with Santa Claus 🎅 and all the trimmings celebrated by believers just can't be backed up in scripture.
“But God commendeth His love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us,”
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| Re: Bulletin Board [message #13037 is a reply to message #13016] |
Sat, 28 December 2019 18:07 |
james
Messages: 2142
Registered: April 2008
Location: Birmingham, AL |
Senior Member |
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The Consequences of Sin...
How much did God love David? Scripture reveals that He loved him very much, that David was a man after God's own heart. God used him greatly to lead Israel and he was a man who was a worshipper, as revealed in the Psalms.
Yet, we know what he did with Bathsheba and unto Uriah , committed adultery and murder. ( II Samuel 11&12) He repented and God forgave Him, but it cost him dearly. Four sons died, there was never peace in his house, he wasn't even allowed to build the temple he so wanted to build.
His cry of repentance is recorded in Psalms 51, God forgave all his transgressions, iniquities, and sins; but the consequences of the acts were allowed to come unto fruition ( sin brings death and pain, sorrow and regrets ).
Thank God for His great love and mercy and grace...we don't deserve anything except the just punishment of a righteous God, death. But God, who is rich in mercy, sent Jesus to rescue and redeem sinners, which includes every person who's ever been born; if we'll just turn in faith to Him.
I was thinking about unanswered prayers and reasons why, one could be that God is allowing us to reap what we sow. David diligently sought The Lord for his son to live and not die, but though God forgave David completely, He didn't intervene.
Sometimes we are reaping the consequences of our sins (sins that have been forgiven by God) and we just have to acknowledge and understand we brought it upon ourselves and deal with it in faith and just trust in Jesus.
Sometimes the consequences we are experiencing are the results of just dumb or ignorant choices, I do believe we can expectantly pray for God to intervene in those situations.
Some examples, in my opinion, a person violates his own body by doing drugs or nicotine or alcohol and has been diagnosed with terminal disease, can God heal and deliver him? Yes, He is sovereign and can do whatever He chooses...but is He obligated to? I don't think He is.
A person commits a crime against society and is incarcerated, he comes to Jesus in prison, can he expect God to step in and release him like He did with Paul ? I don't think so, he will pay the consequences of his sin; forgiven? Yes! Going to heaven? Yes! But he will reap what he's sowed.
Adultery, divorce, children out of wedlock, sexually transmitted disease; forgiveness? Yes! God stepping in and fixing it all? Not likely.
[Updated on: Sat, 28 December 2019 22:15]
“But God commendeth His love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us,”
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| Re: Bulletin Board [message #13063 is a reply to message #13037] |
Wed, 01 January 2020 14:56 |
james
Messages: 2142
Registered: April 2008
Location: Birmingham, AL |
Senior Member |
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Beholding The Glory of God...
Seeing through the eye of faith is wonderful because if we couldn't "see" through faith then we couldn't have faith/hope/ confidence for what God has promised through Jesus. To behold the glory of God and Jesus with our physical eyes is something I long to do; the disciples did on a daily basis, what a privilege. But the day is coming when we too shall behold Him and what a day that will be... and it will never end, we'll worship Him forever more.
"And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, ( and we beheld His glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father) full of grace and truth." John 1:14
"Wherefore God also hath highly exalted Him, and given Him a name which is above every name:
That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth;
And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father." Philippians 2:9-11
“But God commendeth His love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us,”
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| Re: Bulletin Board [message #13074 is a reply to message #13063] |
Fri, 03 January 2020 13:51 |
james
Messages: 2142
Registered: April 2008
Location: Birmingham, AL |
Senior Member |
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"For the Grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men,
Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world:
Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ:
Who gave Himself for us, that He might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto Himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works."
Titus 2:11-14
“But God commendeth His love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us,”
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| Re: Bulletin Board [message #13087 is a reply to message #13074] |
Fri, 10 January 2020 19:03 |
james
Messages: 2142
Registered: April 2008
Location: Birmingham, AL |
Senior Member |
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In John chapter ten Jesus gave the parable of the shepherd and his sheep, which those listening didn't understand, so He explains it clearly. Jesus is the good shepherd who lays down His life for His sheep; He is also the door unto salvation, the only door (way).
Then He clearly states that there are other sheep (believers- Gentiles) that He has that will hear Him and believe, and that we will all be one fold with one shepherd.
“But God commendeth His love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us,”
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| Re: Bulletin Board [message #13099 is a reply to message #13087] |
Sat, 18 January 2020 16:59 |
james
Messages: 2142
Registered: April 2008
Location: Birmingham, AL |
Senior Member |
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A Way of Escape...
I have a app on my iPhone from Bible Gateway that has a daily scripture; today is l Corinthians 10:13
""There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man; but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way of escape, that ye May be able to bear it."
I have been meditating on this scripture as I did my morning walk and all the ways God has given us instruction and wisdom in His Word as how to apply this to our daily lives. First He reminds us sin and the way Satan temps is is not unique to us(though often we might think this...nobody knows how hard this is to overcome, etc) Then He tells us that HE IS FAITHFUL and will not allow it to be more that we're able to overcome...because there is always a way of escaping and with us TAKING that escape choice, we're able to bear it.
One of the most powerful temptations that's universal to all men is lust, I don't think there's a man who ever lived who hasn't been deluged daily with sexual temptation. We know what it did to David and other Biblical examples, it never turned out as planned. God gives us Proverbs 5-7 to warn and instruct us. Job made a covenant with his eyes not to think or look upon a maiden. Paul says to flee fornication and youthful lust. Joseph literally did this, running from Potiphar's wife. Yet so many people (me included) have ran toward the temptation/sin and have paid dearly for it. Broken marriages, children out of wedlock, STD's, generational curses, and yes, as Proverbs warns, death.
Fear is also a temptation that everyone experiences at one time or another. David said what time I am afraid I will TRUST in The Lord. Paul writes in Philippians when anxiety attacks to pray and give thanks to God. 23 Psalm says " ...I will fear no evil"; Paul in Timothy write that God has not given us a spirit of fear.
And every temptation begins in the mind, our thoughts and attitudes. We're told to walk in the spirit and not the flesh; we're told to cast down imaginations, strongholds, and bring every thought to the obedience of Jesus. We're to wear the whole armor of God; to resist the devil and draw near unto God; we're told to dwell in the secret place of the Most High. Faith, this is our escape...total trust in God's promises to do exactly what His Word says.
Everything we face that tries to draw us away from living in and doing the will of God is sin; and temptations that appear pleasing to the flesh or assaults the mind as tactics of the enemy to ultimately separate us from God. Jesus said to not fear, that He has overcome and defeated the devil, and as Romans 8 reminds us, nothing can separate us from the love of God which is in Jesus Christ our Lord.
[Updated on: Sun, 19 January 2020 00:41]
“But God commendeth His love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us,”
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| Re: Bulletin Board [message #13111 is a reply to message #13099] |
Wed, 29 January 2020 19:55 |
james
Messages: 2142
Registered: April 2008
Location: Birmingham, AL |
Senior Member |
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God's Way of Reconciliation...
"Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.
And all things are of God, who hath reconciled us to Himself by Jesus Christ, and hath given to us the ministry of reconciliation;
To wit, that God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto Himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them; and hath committed unto us the word of reconciliation.
Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseeh you by us: we pray you in Christ's stead, be ye reconciled to God.
For He hath made Him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in Him."
II Corinthians 5:17-21
“But God commendeth His love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us,”
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| Re: Bulletin Board [message #13113 is a reply to message #13111] |
Mon, 03 February 2020 16:53 |
james
Messages: 2142
Registered: April 2008
Location: Birmingham, AL |
Senior Member |
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I haven't ever spent much time in thought about what heaven will be like because I know it will be so much more than what I could ever imagine; just the thought of no more pain and suffering, fear and sorrow, sickness and disease, temptations and sin, tears and broken hearts, and death makes me yearn for the manifestation of the promises of God. The thought of unending joy upon being in the very presence of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ for time without end is a whole lot to attempt to process. Then to know that there's more than that, much more than that, prepared just for believers by our God who's boundless love for us...who so totally don't deserve ANYTHING from God The Father except judgment and eternal punishment...BUT He had a plan from the beginning of reconciliation through the sacrificial death and resurrection of His Son, Jesus. I think of the free offer, believe upon The Lord Jesus Christ and thou shall be saved...and remember what Paul writes in Ephesians 2:8; the faith to believe is a gift as well...What a God, what love, what mercy and grace.
"But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love Him."
I Corinthians 2:9
"In my Father's house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you.
And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also."
John 14:2-3
“But God commendeth His love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us,”
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| Re: Bulletin Board [message #13183 is a reply to message #13113] |
Mon, 02 March 2020 15:32 |
james
Messages: 2142
Registered: April 2008
Location: Birmingham, AL |
Senior Member |
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The Rest That Faith Brings...
Romans is such an encouraging book, especially chapter five and verse eight. Everything a believer needs is there and is explained clearly.
Believing these wonderful truths brings peace from God that frees us from trusting in ourselves and our own works and allows us to rest in what Jesus has done at Calvary.
There's a hymn written many years ago (late 1800's) by a lady named Eliza Hewitt that has very deep yet simple lyrics. The title is,
"My Faith Has Found A Resting Place"
one verse says this;
"I need no other argument,
I need no other plea;
It is enough that Jesus died
And that He died for me"
“But God commendeth His love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us,”
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| Re: Bulletin Board [message #13357 is a reply to message #13183] |
Thu, 23 April 2020 21:23 |
james
Messages: 2142
Registered: April 2008
Location: Birmingham, AL |
Senior Member |
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Biblical stories of redemption...
David, in the OT has always been an example of redemption that I've drawn strength from when I've been tempted to listen to the accusations of Satan. He was nobody in anyone's eyes, a simple shepherd boy with some musical talent and a humble spirit. But God chose him to be His instrument in ruling over Israel. His story leading up to being the king over God's chosen people is amazing, yet there he was on the roof of the palace looking down upon a beautiful woman named Bathsheba bathing. From there it was all downhill, a lustful glance turned into adultery, the adultery lead to murder to attempt to cover up the sin, compounding it. BUT , as we know God forgave David when he repented and used him once more. But we do know that there were consequences, the child died, his family suffered violence and sorrow, and he wasn't allowed to do the thing he so desired, build the temple. David is a wonderful example of God's redemptive grace.
Peter is another example of redemption in NT, he was a simple fisherman whom
Jesus chose as one of the twelve. He was part of Jesus's closest followers who repeatedly promised his allegiance unto The Lord. Yet when the time of the crucifying of Christ he abandoned Jesus and denied Him three times. Realizing what he had do in fulfilling Jesus' very words it crushed his heart. Yet Jesus forgave Peter and gave him the assignment to feed His sheep. Peter became a powerful, anointed, fearless, man of God preaching the first sermon concerning the revelation of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Pentecost and the outpouring of the Holy Spirit was Peter's coming into his calling.
I love these two men and I'm thankful God had these men's lives recorded for our learning and encouragement. His love and mercy is displayed throughout scripture and I'm thankful for His Word to reveal to me that love.
[Updated on: Mon, 27 April 2020 22:05]
“But God commendeth His love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us,”
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