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"we think." You think. I think. Some may not think at all, I suppose. But, none we think. At the end of this time of times each will give an account of themselves before God. Will each say, "we think"....? Will each be able to hide under a collective statement, "Well we all thought"....? Let each of us stand individually behind our personal claims, never claiming to speak for we, but simply for " I " by stating, "I think"..... Each of us individually should be confident in our claims if we are to make them, enough so as to put ourselves behind them, and not hide behind an imaginary "we" and claiming a collective correct thought. The intent being to make anyone with differing thought to be isolated in their own thinking from some imaginary we. I do not surrender my capacity to think to any collective, especially not to individuals claiming to represent a we that is to discern what is what for me. I do not surrender my thinking to a we, nor do I hide it under a banner of a collective we that I might imagine because I want to exude a sense of power of great numbers behind my own individual thoughts and conclusions. Take down that we, and stand up for I. I under God. I under my Lord Jesus. It is I that am responsible for all that I do, say, or think, not some we that I might use to claim an authoritive posture. There are great principles that are generally agreed upon, but even there each adult is individually responsible for their own understanding of them. There is no collective, no we, that shields us from ourselves nor from personal responsibility for what we may claim to be so.

I agree! So lovely and amazing! It's such a joy serving the Lord! May the Lord make His face to shine upon you and keep you all your days, and may God bless you, in Jesus' mighty name!

Paul commended Phoebe for her service as what is today a minister in the church in Cenchreae. And Priscilla and her husband Aquilla, who had a home church and served there as ministers together. Priscilla, Prisca as she is sometimes called, was tortured and martyred for her faith. I would agree they all exemplified their faith and calling to service by God.

Just trying to be used to help others, as you also do. We are here for each other.

Exactly. He didn't let them because they had an ordained purpose. Rather I follow what God wants than what I personally feel I would do.

Thank you, Daniel, for sharing this. It is such an encouragement to see you using your gifts to bring glory to God. Is it okay if I share this with others, not in this group? Blessings

Blessings Daniel You are the sweetest guy........you are a special child of God,my husband & I just love you to LIFE!!! We are all very Blessed by you being here with our Worthy Family With much love-in Christ Jesus.Your Sis & Brother Snow

I agree! This song is something special! Thank you for checking it out! I am super glad it has blessed you so, that is a blessing to me as well!!! The Lord loves you, dearly!!! May God bless you, deeply, in Jesus' mighty name!!!

It's a super honor! Thank you for your enthusiasm! May the Lord make His face to shine upon you all of your days, and may God bless you, in Jesus' mighty name!

Thank you for the support! ? It means a lot! I am learning to use my gift for the Lord, as it should be, after a very long while of not playing really at all. It's wonderful to play and worship Him and use the gift by His will and Holy Spirit! What a different world it is with Him involved! God bless you, in Jesus' mighty name! Much love, in Christ! -Daniel

Forever - Kari Jobe - Drum Cover by Daniel Quartararo Daniel Quartararo covers Forever by Kari Jobe on the drums! God loves you dearly, no matter who you are! Please just ask Jesus to prove Himself to you if you do not know Him! Ask Him to forgive you. Ask Him to give you a heart to turn away from sin. Ask Him to make you whole, and righteous, and worthy of everlasting life by accepting the blood that He shed on the cross for your sins. No, no good works will do, but good works will be evidence of your faith, as you follow God's plan for your life! But it starts by reaching out to God; to Jesus Christ, and saying, "Lord, I am done with myself, I am done living for me, I want to live for you, I want to live a righteous life and turn from my sin, I want to know you, Jesus, I want to love people like you love people, Jesus!" He will prove Himself! He is God. He is so big and powerful!!! There is no stone He won't overturn in your life to prove Himself to you! He loves you dearly and He wants what's best for you! His plan will fulfill you beyond your wildest imagination, and He will reconcile you to Him through the finished work of the cross; the work that He willing did for you!!!!!!! If you have prayed this prayer; genuinely prayed this prayer, welcome to the family!!!!!!!!!!!! You are now a child of God!!!!!!!!!!!!! And I am here for you in whatever way I can be!!!!! Please don't be a stranger brother or sister in Christ!!!!! And may God bless you, richly, in Jesus' mighty name!!!! Much love to you, in Christ! -Daniel AMEN! I hope you enjoy! Please, share with all your music loving friends! Titus 3:5 - Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost; Ephesians 2:8-9 - For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Romans 10:9 - That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. Ephesians 2:8 - For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Matthew 7:21 - Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven. John 14:6 - Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me. Acts 4:12 - Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved. John 6:44 - No man can come to me, except the Father which hath sent me draw him: and I will raise him up at the last day. John 15:1-27 - I am the true vine, and my Father is the husbandman. Acts 16:30-33 - And brought them out, and said, Sirs, what must I do to be saved? Psalms 3:8 - Salvation belongeth unto the LORD: thy blessing is upon thy people. Selah. Psalms 37:39 - But the salvation of the righteous is of the LORD: he is their strength in the time of trouble. Psalms 62:1 - (To the chief Musician, to Jeduthun, A Psalm of David.) Truly my soul waiteth upon God: from him cometh my salvation. Acts 28:28 - Be it known therefore unto you, that the salvation of God is sent unto the Gentiles, and that they will hear it. Romans 6:14 - For sin shall not have dominion over you: for ye are not under the law, but under grace.

Gotta love the Trump effect. The ecconomy seems to be improving rapidly. And leaving the Dems in the dust as they sit on their hands while 'resisting'. https://finance.yahoo.com/news/job-growth-america-rip-roaring-124201066.html

I wold say that God knew exactly how He wanted us to understand this prophecy, not to rearrange scripture to fit our theology, but to take His word to arrange our theology. They are, indeed, consecutive. The opening of the 7th Seal brings out the 7 Trumpets. They are not all done at the same time. That does not make sense at all if they all occurred at the same time. If they were the same, why would God make them different? In a nutshell, I see the 7 Seals as God poking the world, telling them to wake up. The 7 Trumpets is God telling the world to take Him dead seriously. The 7 Bowls is God proving to the world that He is not messing around, change now or forever be banned from His love. There is His logic to all this, and the very reason why He informed John in such a way and told John to write them in this way. It is man, though all their hard studies, who felt the need to place them together for one reason or another.

It does not sound at all like the myth of "soul sleep!"

Thank you. And may God bless you in the same glorious manner.

There is so much wisdom and understanding of God's word in Kwik's post, it should be required reading for all professing Christians. I know I'm going to read it multiple times. God bless you Kwik. I'd like to touch on one thing she said, expand on it to see if this has happened to other Christians. Has God ever given you a, for lack of a better term, a "word of knowledge", maybe of some future event maybe on a more personal level? If so, has He asked you to keep silent about it until after it happens? Has He sealed your lips permanently about it?

Everyone now on earth starts as written in Ephesians 2, under the sway of the prince of the power of the air, and remains there usually. A few are called and chosen and born again and set apart by YHWH Himself, thus becoming one with Y'SHUA and given life in Him as a part of His Plan and Purpose for His children who YHWH continues to accomplish His Will in and through as we are willing, for as many as love Him and are called according to His Purpose. 'Outside' ekklesia are all the individuals, groups, countries, nations, peoples and worldly religous. 'Inside' ekklesia are all who are immersed in Jesus Name, being becoming one with Him as He Says, and learning from Him, free or being set free from sin and from fear of death and from the power of the world(society/mankind) and from the power of the devil. Freely the mind of Christ is granted to all whom it is given, in the salvation in Jesus, along with as written: Righteousness, Peace and Joy..... not like the world knows ; not like the world gives.... but without measure and without any condemnation to all those who abide in Christ Jesus ....

Blessings Willa (& everyone) I understand what you are saying but I think Word Faith Ministrys(not sure if we can consider that to be a denomination?) has given people the wrong impression with that "Name it /Claim it & Believe it/Receive it" hype we see on the edited for TV sermons where they must spend half the time(well,they think they need to) literally peddling the Scriptures for profit.....not all of them,I wouldn't say that but most of what we hear about & what many of us have experienced which certainly does not mean ALL.....I always try to remember that God searches the heats of individuals & so I really don't like to categorize by saying "them" Im not sure where "Prosperity Gospel " came from or who how that all came about but a Life More Abundant in Christ is Prosperity but "prosperity" does not mean "money" although God certainly Provides us in that area as well & we do Receive increase as it is needed according to His Purpose as we are Gods Stewards...Behold touched on this earlier......Abundance means many things besides finances but they are not exlcuded Increase/prosperity covers many areas,such as Gods Promise of Increase to Abraham... God Gives us Wisdom & Instruction that we prosper......& the Power(opportunities,abilties,skills,strength & stamina etc..) to attain wealth as He Promised in Duet 8:18 Ww prosper in joy,health,peace,Wisdom,Understanding & all the Fruits of the Spirit and we don't have to have a penny,we Will ALWAYS have whatever it is that we Need,Glory Jehovah Jireh! The Good News,The Gospel of Jesus,is Good News about the Joy of Salvation & also that we can have Life More Abundant here & now......that is "prosperity" ,it is in spirit & in body,heart and mind.....So,my point is that I don't know how "Prosperity Gospel" came about or how it came to be thought of as such a negative thing,everything about being Born Again Prospers us in this life and onto Eternity......When people ask me about the "Prosperity Gospel" my answer is that there is but one Gospel ,it is about Jesus,His Finished Work on the cross & Jesus certainly brings prosperity!So the Bible is full of Gods Promises of Prosperity For His Own The Receive It /Believe it is a catchy little way of paraphrasing Gods Word,isn't it? Jesus Said that whatever we ask & believe He Will Give us......once again,whats wrong with that? When the motives of the heart are in the wrong place that is not walking in obedience to Christ and Jesus Said that IF we love Him we will obey His Commamdments...the Greatest of these are God First(as you mentioned Matt 6:33) loving Him with all our heart soul & mind & then Loving one another as we love ourselves.......in this LOVE all the Commandments are being followed as is the Law,then the heart is not only"right" but it is actually the Heart of Jesus ,the Mid of Christ........when this is what motivates us then or desires are in the right place and we are not hoping or asking for a great big luxurious hose,a fancy car & more money than we know what to do with......I don't agree that we will merely "get by"or that is not how I see it anyway,I have all that I need & then some,more than I could ever hope for,God Provides more than I need that there is always much to go around .....I have more Joy than I could imagine a person needs,so much Peace that it surpasses all Understanding,& unlimited supply of Strength that I am usually shocked by myself,a never ending supply of Blessings God pours out of the windows in Heaven & then uses me to pass them out to others......Oh Praise Jesus,Glory Glory Glory...... As far as "tongues" there are not 2 kinds but 3 (as someone mentioned)....the 3rd was shown by SObG ( 1 Cor 14:4)That is a Word for the church as a whole....that is what prophesying is but it is up to the one prophesying how,when,where & if he will share it,he should be in control of his speech.....the thing he must consider is,will it edify or build up the church ? I say there are 3 because one is praying in a unknown language (in Spirit) to God just between an individual & the Lord,the second is a foreign language that is known to another(this is for the unbeliever) & the 3rd as I mentioned in the beginning is the unknown or "Heavenly" language for the church & must be interpreted(with order) I've been to many a Sunday Service where there is just mass hysteria & chaos,exactly what the Apostle Paul said "Should not be",it is what the pagans did,they claimed they were compelled to speak by a wild spirit that controlled them ,sounds like a possession to me!Holy Spirit does not take one over,He Inspires a mans speech from within His spirit but we still have self control which is also a Fruit of the Spirit...God is Gracious,He Always Has Perfect order and Convicts the hearts of men...He Does not scare the life out of them and cause confusion or unrest The Presence of God is a Perfect & Humbling Peace,its not about theatrics.... With love-in Christ,Kwik

Of course, otherwise they would be someone else's children .... ... ...

Is this symbolism? Luke 23:39 Then one of the criminals who were hanged blasphemed Him, saying, “If You are the Christ, save Yourself and us.” 40 But the other, answering, rebuked him, saying, “Do you not even fear God, seeing you are under the same condemnation? 41 And we indeed justly, for we receive the due reward of our deeds; but this Man has done nothing wrong.” 42 Then he said to Jesus, “Lord, remember me when You come into Your kingdom.” 43 And Jesus said to him, “Assuredly, I say to you, today you will be with Me in Paradise.” or how about this... I Thessalonians 4: 14 For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so God will bring with Him those who sleep in Jesus. That's when He descends from heaven, and who is that He is bringing with Him? God bless

John 14: 3 And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you to Myself; that where I am, there you may be also. First, when Jesus says this to His disciples where are they? On earth or in the clouds? It makes absolutely no sense for Him to tell them He will come again to a place other than where He has been with them, especially when He is going to heaven to prepare them a place and saying He will come again. They are standing on earth, you are talking yourself out of something obvious. The last part of the verse is the scripture that you say I didn't have. Where He is, is where we will be, here is more scripture to support it. John 12:26 If anyone serves Me, let him follow Me; and where I am, there My servant will be also. If anyone serves Me, him My Father will honor. John 17:24 “Father, I desire that they also whom You gave Me may be with Me where I am, that they may behold My glory which You have given Me; for You loved Me before the foundation of the world. As for I Thessalonians 4, look at this very carefully. I Thessalonians 4:13 But I do not want you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning those who have fallen asleep, lest you sorrow as others who have no hope. 14 For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so God will bring with Him those who sleep in Jesus. Notice what it says there in verse 14, who does He bring with Him? The deceased people, no mention of the living yet, right? What He is bringing with Him are the great multitude, the armies from heaven. I Thessalonians 4:15 For this we say to you by the word of the Lord, that we who are alive and remain until the coming of the Lord will by no means precede those who are asleep. Those who are alive and remain until His coming do not precede the dead, because the dead follow Him out of heaven just like it says in verse 14. I Thessalonians 4:16 For the Lord Himself will descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of an archangel, and with the trumpet of God. And the dead in Christ will rise first. The Lord descends with a shout, the voice of an archangel, and the trumpet.... the dead rise first. So again, bringing angels and the great multitude, archangels are fighters. I Thessalonians 4:17 Then we who are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And thus we shall always be with the Lord. Then the living are caught up (harpazo) to meet Him in the air. And again, the same as illustrated above, we shall always be with Him. Meaning the same thing as the other passages, wherever He goes, we go. And He is coming to earth to vanquish the enemy, right where He told the disciples He would come again, the earth. I agree with you by the way, John 14 and I Thessalonians 4 fit like a glove, just not the glove you have been suggesting. There is not one passage concerning the gathering / catching away that does not include His coming, that should tell you all you need to know. Show me one that doesn't then. God bless

Beautifully put brother, but I can't see how you can love your God with all your heart & also rebel agains his commands at the same time. You seem to make a distinction between the God of the old testament & the new, when He says He is the same today tomorrow & always. Salvation has always the same by grace, & the quotes of love your God & your neighbor as your self are old testament. "On these Hang the law & prophets" the basis of Christian behavior is love & exudes the 10 commandments If you love God with all your heart you will follow the first 4 commandments & up hold the next 6 out of love for Him, the last 6 are directly related to our relationship with others. God bless brother

Revelation 20:7-10 Now when the thousand years have expired, Satan will be released from his prison and will go out to deceive the nations which are in the four corners of the earth, Gog and Magog, to gather them together to battle, whose number is as the sand of the sea. They went up on the breadth of the earth and surrounded the camp of the saints and the beloved city. And fire came down from God out of heaven and devoured them. The devil, who deceived them, was cast into the lake of fire and brimstone where the beast and the false prophet are. And they will be tormented day and night forever and ever.

I was once on the side that you present. I dogmatically fought on the side of equality between women and men. I used every ounce of material against those that opposed. I found out I was wrong. Not because someone on a forum argued truth from a scriptural viewpoint or from sitting in a pew in church. My learning came from practical experience ministering unto people. The ministry was never about who has authority or who is greater or lesser. It was geared towarded simply working with people, both men and women, seeking to bring them unto a personal relationship with God. Practical experience of working with both men and women convicted me of biblical truth. I have experienced first hand gen 3:16 where it is womens curse to desire to rule over their husbands but authority was given to men. I don't expect you to budge one bit away from your belief in this thread but rather use the occasion to place the truth before people so that those who can receive it do. I have great sympathy for women because of that curse and what it does to whole households. It is easy for deceivers to enter into houses and lead away women who are laden with sin as it is written. Truly women are tge weaker vessel and easier to be deceived. I don't say that to be little or look down upon but simply accept it as truth because it has proven true in every case I have encountered in ministry. Women fight for superiority under the guise of equality. Been that way since the beginning.

Hi Absolem You are confused as to why men will be deceived if they have been taught truth for a thousand years and have experienced peace? At the beginning of the millennium, those generations who have witnessed the coming, can compare the difference Jesus makes to a world that was once lost. They can see the comparison of wars and peace. Lies and truth. Isaiah 2:4 And he shall judge among the nations, and shall rebuke many people: and they shall beat their swords into plowshares, and their spears into pruninghooks: nation shall not lift up sword against nation, neither shall they learn war any more. They will not learn war for only *a thousand years*. But there will be more generations born after them who witnessed the Coming, that have not experienced that old system of Babylon Jesus destroyed at his coming. So as time goes by, even though truth has been spread to all surviving nations, evil has not yet been destroyed completely. There will be men born who will not agree with Christ's teachings, ...but they have no power to cause uprisings and wars and oppression. These are the "uncircumsized of hearts". If that nation will not honour the KING, and their leaders not journey into Jerusalem to pay their respects, then that land will have no rain. Zechariah 14:17 And it shall be, that whoso will not come up of all the families of the earth unto Jerusalem to worship the King, the LORD of hosts, even upon them shall be no rain. We can see that a warning is given to the nations who will be unthankful. Also, we are told that during the millennium, man will live to be a hundred years old. Another warning that man can live a hundred years blessed or cursed. It will depend on his heart. Isaiah 65:20 There shall be no more thence an infant of days, nor an old man that hath not filled his days: for the child shall die an hundred years old; but the sinner being an hundred years old shall be accursed. If any man is not worshiping the King, Jesus, and following his commandments he will not be blessed. If not blessed, then they will be devoid of that truth given, and will become sitting ducks. If they have no rain, they will have no food....so when Satan is released from his prison, he has the perfect conditions and people to tempt. The hungry and the cursed. He will stir them up to take all the food, and wealth from the kingdom area, Holy Jerusalem. They will fall for his trap because their hearts are not right, and now they are given permission to reveal what is truly in their hearts..taking part in war, caused by jealousy and greed. Satan will teach them how to rebel, and will show them how to make weapons again and how to attack and take what is not theirs. It will be history repeating itself, a world they never lived through in the past, but their hearts are the same. This is the final sifting of all the uncircumsized of heart.

It is in Word Study Dictionary by Spiros Zodiates.

Hi Judas, Thank you for your polite reply. My first point regarding the 12 disciples would be a good thread for a discussion, and I will be pleased to talk there, as we may get off on too many tangents here. Now I am not saying that the Holy Spirit failed to guide the `called out ones,` the believers, over the centuries. Believers from the early days of the Ekklesia, the Body of Christ, have been martyred for the truths God has said. And we are very blessed to be able to receive these truths today from God`s word available so freely in many parts of the world. As to the Body of Christ having to be a visible man made organisation, I do not read that in God`s word. I do however see that the believers were highly esteemed by those around them, which means a visible demonstration of the life of Christ in a believer. `And through the hands of the apostles many signs and wonders were done among the people. And they were in one accord in Solomon`s Porch. yet none of the rest dared join them, but the people esteemed them highly. And believers were increasingly added to the Lord, multitudes of both men and women,....`(Acts 5: 12 - 14) It is in the everyday of life that people see how believers live a Christ life, and are thus drawn to inquire and be `added to the Lord.` but NOT to man`s organisation/s that lord it over the believers. regards, Marilyn.

I think once someone believes their prejudice is sustained by God anything else is fair game. Pray. That's the best thing to do. I do agree with all that you've said. And thank you.

Correct again wingnut !!!!

", do not trust anonymous entities on the internet..." Do you include yourself there?

Imo, the WOF schtick is a money making scheme; money making for the ministries that promote it that is. God doesn't ask us to pay for blessings. He already owns everything in the universe so what use does He have for money? Your blessings and healing come from faith in Him not some preacher on t.v. or in a pulpit. Pray, don't pay, for what you need from the Lord. Don't question your faith; question those asking for your money.

You just had someone compare your argument to homosexuals tactics. Anyone who does that can never argue from the standpoint of the word or the church. There are very ignorant people in the church . They read the Bible but they don't know a thing about the writings within the Bible. Nor the disciplines that scholars commit to in order to rightly divide the word. You're attempting to argue with worldly ideology opposed to women. We know Jesus condemned this and walked opposed to the traditions of his people when he included women as his disciples. You'll not change the mind that has turned to stone. That which condemns women condemns the same God that calls women to his service. Those women called outnumber the worldly opposed to the truth within the word that is God. And as such every single woman in service to God proves that cache of opponents of women and God false trumpeters misrepresenting the truth of Christ. And of all things, his own example. Women traveled with him. Be careful! That'll be called not true too. Maybe they were lesbians. I hear that's a tactic.

I don't see that Jesus healed in the same way twice even. One time he put spit on clay in their eyes, one time he just said the word, one time a woman touched the hem of his garment. Sometimes He lay hands on people and sometimes he commanded spirits to leave. So I agree that listening to God is primary, and then obeying (which is scary). The Bible does tell us to go to the elders of the church and ask them to pray. That is how my husband's neck was once healed maybe 10 years ago. He had been in such excruciating pain that it caused his heart to go into fibrillation. We took him to church and the pastors prayed for him at noon; by evening he realized the pain was completely gone! When they prayed he said it felt like warm oil running over him and through him. Praise God! I think God wants us to trust in Him and not in a method. Our human nature thinks, well this worked before so I will try it again. Or that prayer worked before so I will tell people to just pray this prayer. It is not the prayer or the method that works but the Living God Whose loving touch we seek. So if God were to tell me to jump on one foot while rubbing my head and then kiss him on his neck, I would make a fool of myself doing so but I would act in obedience because of my compassion for my husband and my trust in God. But I may test the spirits first and ask for confirmation. Just saying, the back of the neck is one of the dirtiest places on the body! lol

G1249 (Word Study) διάκονος diákonos; gen. diakónou, masc., fem. noun. A minister, servant, deacon. The derivation is uncertain. According to some it comes from diakónis, in the dust laboring, or running through dust. Others derive it from diákō, the same as diḗkō, to hasten, related to diṓkō, to pursue. Also used in the NT as a technical term side by side with epískopos (G1985), bishop or overseer (1Ti 3:8, 1Ti 3:12; Php 1:1). The deacons in this sense were helping or serving the bishops or elders, and this is why they were probably called deacons. They did not, though, possess any ruling authority as did the elders. Tychicus was called a deacon in his relation to Paul (Eph 6:21; Col 4:7 [cf. Act 19:22]). The origin of this relationship is likely found in Act 6:1-4. Stephen and Phplip were deacons and were first chosen as distributors of alms and other forms of aid, but soon appeared alongside the Apostles and as their helpers and as evangelists (Act 6:8-10; Act 8:5-8). The care of the churches fell upon the deacons as the helpers of the elders who held distinct offices. The only passage in which special officials of the church are mentioned is 1Ti 3:8-12. In verse eight it speaks of diakónous which undoubtedly refers to male deacons because the adjectives that are used in the verse such as semnoús (G4586), grave, are in the masc. pl. and not in the fem. In verse eleven the KJV gives an interpretation and not a translation when it says, "Even so must their wives be grave." The Gr. says, "women likewise grave" (a.t.). The NIV also has that translation. The NASB has the preferred translation, "Women [must] likewise [be] dignified [or grave]." It is impossible to determine whether the Apostle Paul is speaking of women in general in verse eleven or the wives of the deacons. The only possible reference to a woman as a deacon is Rom 16:1-2, although the word diákonon may just as well be translated "servant." In this regard we must note that the story of the early church significantly begins with the inclusion of women in the apostolic meetings for prayer (Act 1:14). Their presence and activity are clearly illustrated by the references to Tabitha (Act 9:36), Mary the mother of John Mark (Act 12:12), Lydia (Act 16:14), Damaris (Act 17:34), and Priscilla (Act 18:2). The story of SapPhpra (Act 5:7 f.) implies the comparatively independent membership and responsibility of women within the Christian community. Priscilla illustrates their active evangelism (Act 18:26). Attention is expressly called to the "multitudes" of women converts added to the church (Act 5:14). In Php 4:2-3 Euodias and Syntyche (both women) are spoken of as fellow laborers of the Apostle Paul, and in 1Co 1:11 Chloe is mentioned as having reported to Paul the condition of the church at Corinth. In Rom 16:1-3, Rom 16:6, Rom 16:12-13, Rom 16:15 we have numerous salutations to women. Nevertheless, aside from the normal and expected involvement of women in a wide range of church activities and auxiliary ministries, they are never found to be holding ordained offices or engaging in the work of those positions.

No, I see John saying that he is the friend of the Bridegroom. The voice calling out in the wilderness, and the fulfillment of that prophecy. That's why he says "this joy of mine is fulfilled." Because the Messiah has arrived. There is only one body, and John the Baptist is part of it. The only separation with Jesus is those who believe, and those who do not. God bless

I agree that Phoebe was a deaconess. The follow details the calling of the first deacons. Act 6:1 AMP NOW ABOUT this time, when the number of the disciples was greatly increasing, complaint was made by the Hellenists (the Greek-speaking Jews) against the [native] Hebrews because their widows were being overlooked and neglected in the daily ministration (distribution of relief). Act 6:2 So the Twelve [apostles] convened the multitude of the disciples and said, It is not seemly or desirable or right that we should have to give up or neglect [preaching] the Word of God in order to attend to serving at tables and superintending the distribution of food. Act 6:3 Therefore select out from among yourselves, brethren, seven men of good and attested character and repute, full of the [Holy] Spirit and wisdom, whom we may assign to look after this business and duty. Act 6:4 But we will continue to devote ourselves steadfastly to prayer and the ministry of the Word. Act 6:5 And the suggestion pleased the whole assembly, and they selected Stephen, a man full of faith (a strong and welcome belief that Jesus is the Messiah) and full of and controlled by the Holy Spirit, and Philip, and Prochorus, and Nicanor, and Timon, and Parmenas, and Nicolaus, a proselyte (convert) from Antioch. Act 6:6 These they presented to the apostles, who after prayer laid their hands on them. We see that the apostles were the pastors/bishops/elders/overseers who did the preaching and expounding on the word. They chose deacons to serve tables and superintended the distribution of food so that the widows were not overlooked. Stephen, the first martyr, was one of them. And he certainly could preach a powerful message under the power of the Holy Spirit, which then got him stoned to death. But that his primary duty as a deacon was to see that food be distributed to everyone. Deacons took care of the business affairs of the church so that the pastors/bishops could preach the Word. One of the qualifications of both was that they be the husband of one wife. Yet we see that Phoebe was described as a deacon. 1 Timothy 3:1-13, Titus 1N:5-9 The guy who wrote the article is twisting the Scriptures to fit his beliefs and telling women what they want to hear. Sorry.

I'm only aware of two in regards to this topic, what Daniel was told to seal up, and what John was told to seal up in regards to what the seven thunders said. The rest of the answers are found in scripture. He didn't say how long I agree, but He did say that everyone would see Him coming, not that everyone would seem Him appear. Coming means in the act, appearing would just be an arrival. Matthew 24:30 Then the sign of the Son of Man will appear in heaven, and then all the tribes of the earth will mourn, and they will see the Son of Man coming on the clouds of heaven with power and great glory. The sign comes first, that is in regards to the sun, moon, and stars as described in the previous verse. Then the inhabitants of the earth mourn when all the lights go out, and see Him coming with power and great glory. They'll see Him because He will be the only light as he approaches, and suddenly appearing doesn't really display power and great glory does it? It may not seem like much, but I think it's an important distinction. I'm not sure where you get this from, scripture doesn't tell of hundreds, but a few. The verse from I Thessalonians says we meet the Lord in the air, it says nothing about going beyond the clouds. So let me point out to you something very important from John 14 that you seem to be overlooking. John 14:3 And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you to Myself; that where I am, there you may be also. Where is He coming to again? The earth. We meet Him on His way and since we will forever be with Him, we are coming right back down. Only the deceased and the angels will follow Him out of heaven. Agreed, it is the false theology the church in the western nations have been spreading for the last several hundred years. I believed it for the majority of my life as well for that very reason, because it was all I heard and I never bothered to dig deeper for myself and just accepted someone else's version. Once I prayed and asked the Lord for understanding things have become perfectly clear. No more jumping through hoops, it is fairly simple. I pray my brothers and sisters would do the same so they are prepared for what is coming. God bless

The whole council of God is from Genesis thru Revelation... and yes you need do this 2 Timothy 2:14 (KJV) [14] Of these things put them in remembrance, charging them before the Lord that they strive not about words to no profit, but to the subverting of the hearers. [15] Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth. 2 Timothy 3:15 (KJV) [15] And that from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus. [16] All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: [17] That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works. so ignoring any portion or demeaning the importance of the whole must be according to God not perfect... Your whole of reasoning greater lesser by placement of duty is moot by God being the least and greatest among us... Lucifer would not hold the place God had given to him but rebelled... The Spirit is not about who's who or where's where but Lord what will You have me do with this given to me that will please You! That is why He has written it all down called the Scriptures and in these we are to follow to gain a renewed mind that is able to be used by God!

One day, we were invited to attend a church. During the service, there was a lot of emphasis on employment and advancing in a company. And people were encouraged to believe that there were only good things in store for them. If I had gone just to attend a motivational seminar, that would have been one thing, but I left with a heavy heart, wondering how people would feel to share what they were really experiencing; for fear of having a lack of faith We didn't go back there. I think we have to be careful when it comes to making a personal experience a goal that all must attain.

I'm going to take this opportunity to say that I'm going to be cutting way back on my postings here. As someone pointed out, the country is perhaps as divided as it was during the 1860s. And as the old saying goes, 'if you're not part of the solution, you're part of the problem.' My postings here - along with those of others - do not serve to bridge the divide. Most of the time, we 'talk past' each other. Even when we're shown to be wrong, our response frequently is to 'double-down' and defend our position almost to the death. Christians are called to be 'Christ-like' in everything we say and do - this is not an option. I've examined myself and found myself falling short of that. I will still 'lurk', and I do reserve the right to post at times if a topic is actually 'newsworthy' and not slander or gossip. Blessings to all, -Ed

I do know this, I was asking you who they are in your opinion. Jesus walked this earth during the last days of the first age, following His resurrection the church age began. That means anyone who died prior to His resurrection qualifies for being the "many" whose graves were opened. Your response suggested that you believe they were from the same time He was alive because your source said they returned to their families. His own disciples, who were closer to Him than anyone did not understand what had happened until He returned to them, Thomas wasn't convinced until he touched the holes in His hands. So what your source suggested is highly unlikely. The more likely understanding is that these saints were from the Old Testament. I would also offer the reminder of what Jesus said to the thief beside Him on the cross, "I tell you the truth, today you will be with Me in paradise." Luke 23:43. This whole soul sleep premise is the one with issues concerning scripture. I read them in the bible, if you have scripture to support otherwise of course I am receptive. 9 years ago when I first joined worthy forums I believed in pre-trib, and for two years I argued that position on these boards. The Lord changed my understanding of that with scripture, so if I am wrong on this the same would apply. However it will require scripture, I don't follow the theology of men, as I have discovered way too many errors in regards to it. What you posted isn't in line with scripture at all, it actually is taking all sorts of liberties with it. Nowhere in the scripture does it say these saints were from His time, it doesn't say that they returned to their families, nor does it say they lived out regular lives and died again. That is the definition of taking liberties with scripture, adding things to it that simply aren't there or supported anywhere else. If you don't agree with it, why post it? Matthew 27:51 Then, behold, the veil of the temple was torn in two from top to bottom; and the earth quaked, and the rocks were split, 52 and the graves were opened; and many bodies of the saints who had fallen asleep were raised; 53 and coming out of the graves after His resurrection, they went into the holy city and appeared to many. Where in that passage does it say any of those things your source claims? You chose to correct me with this source and claimed it was more reliable and in line with scripture, but I am not seeing that here. There are only two mass resurrections in scripture, this one here and the one at the end of the church age. Now why would Jesus say He was telling the truth to the thief on the cross about being with Him in paradise that day if it were not so? The only school I subscribe to is scripture, and no, I am not going to come out of that. If you have some scripture to offer I am more than happy to digest it. It's amazing to me that you would post something that so blatantly takes liberties with what is written and still continue to claim that I am the one who needs to change my thinking. God bless

Beautiful song.

Hi Flipflop, Firstly I think if you weren't really saved you wouldn't be worried about this. A faker would just fake it when he was around other Christians and not care when he was alone. I think you're a young person and self doubt is part of being young. Most teenagers even think they're crazy, and that's part of being a teenager. A truly crazy person never thinks he's crazy. He thinks everyone else is. So going along with my youthfulness theory I think you're over eager to become a spiritually mature believer over night. It takes time my friend. I just listened to a very informative sermon on this topic by Ralph Drollinger on the oneplace website. You should listen to it I think you'll feel better. I think you're ok and I think you're going to grow into a Christian most people don't even want to be. I'll even say I wish more believers were as concerned as you are about being genuine. The whole body of Christ would be better off.

It is NOT symbolic; if souls couldn't exist outside of a body, there would be no way to reunite with the glorified body would there?

Well, if you have accept Christ as your Savior, you have been sealed with the Holy Spirit. Oppressed is another issue. Remember doubt is the most used weapon of the enemy. You need to realize that you are in the middle of a spiritual warfare. We don't chose when Satan is going to attack, we just need to recognize the attack and put on the whole armor of God. Romans 10:13 For “whoever calls on the name of the Lord shall be saved.” Ephesians 1:13-14 "In Him you also trusted, after you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation; in whom also, having believed, you were sealed with the Holy Spirit of promise, 14 who is the guarantee of our inheritance until the redemption of the purchased possession, to the praise of His glory." Ephesians 6:10-18 "Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places. Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. Stand therefore, having girded your waist with truth, having put on the breastplate of righteousness, and having shod your feet with the preparation of the gospel of peace; above all, taking the shield of faith with which you will be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked one. And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God; praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, being watchful to this end with all perseverance and supplication for all the saints—"

Hi Flipflop, It sounds to me that you did give your heart to Jesus but you don't really trust Him enough to believe that He will be with you in everyday life until the end of your days, that you're worried about not having the Holy Spirit shows that you really love God and that you do have the Holy Spirit. To live the Christian life is not living by feelings but by every word of God. The Temptation of Jesus …3The tempter came to Him and said, “If You are the Son of God, tell these stones to become bread.” 4ButJesus answered, “It is written: ‘Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.’” 5Then the devil took Him to the holy city and set Him on the pinnacle of the temple.… Jesus answered, "It is written: 'Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.'"Matthew 4:4 Read the Bible and tell God that you do believe in Him and do not listen to the enemy who will make you doubt if you're really saved, claim all the promises you have in God! Who I am in Christ I am Accepted in Christ John 1:12I am God's child John 15:15I am Christ's friend Romans 5:1I have been justified ! Cor 6:17I am united with the Lord and one with Him in spirit 1 Cor 6:20I have been bought with a price, I belong to God 1 Cor 12:27I am a member of Christ's body Ephesians 1:1I am a saint Ephesians 1:5I have been adopted as God's child Ephesians 2:18I have direct access to God through the Holy Spirit Colossians 1:14I have been redeemed and forgiven of all my sins Colossians 2:10I am complete in Christ I am Secure in Christ Romans 8:1-2I am free forever from condemnation Romans 8:28I am assured that all things work together for good Rom 8:33-34I am free from any condemning charges against me Romans 8:35I cannot be separated from the love of God 2 Cor 1:21I have been established anointed and sealed by God Colossians 3:3I am hidden with Christ in God Philippians 1:6I am confident that the good work God has begun in me will be perfected Phil 3:20I am a citizen of heaven 2 Timothy 1:7I have not been given a spirit of fear but of power love and a sound mind Hebrews 4:16I can find grace and mercy in time of need 1 John 5:18I am born of God and the evil one cannot touch me I Am Significant in Christ Matt5:13-14I am the salt and light of the earth John 15:1,5I am a branch of the true vine, a channel of His life John 15:16I have been chosen and appointed to bear fruit Acts 1:8I am a personal witness of Christ's 1 Cor 3:16I am God's temple 2 Cor 5:17-20I am a minister of reconciliation 2 Cor 6:1I am God's co-worker Ephesisans 2:6I am seated with Christ in the heavenly realm Ephesians 2:10I am God's workmanship Ephesians 3:12I may approach God with freedom and confidence Philippians 4:13I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me Taken from Living Free in Christ, by Neil Anderson ©1993 Regal Books Flipflop,I hope this helps you to understand that you can and must trust God?

Blessings Daniel Thats it Brotherlet us make a JOYFUL noise unto the LORD!!!! Praise to the Lamb Who has overcome!!! Praise Jesus!!! With love-in Christ,Kwik

Your belief doesn't change the fact that the word "harpazo" is in 1 Thess 4:17, Rev 12:5. Christians have been standing against satan for 2,000 years.

angels4u Do you love truth? Do you want me to answer according to your doctrine, or shall I answer according to truth? When I searched the scriptures, I didn't have a text book in my other hand doing all the interpretation for me, but came to Christ reading his Word as a little child knowing nothing, and trusting him to fill me. I think you know my stance on this, as I have talked about this scripture in depth on here in the past, Please read the scripture again very carefully and ponder on it for a while. Look at your question, and then look at God's answer in that scripture. I will come back and explain again but have to step out for a while.

That's an excellent idea. The WORD is an instruction booklet on what to do and how to know our FATHER better. Those who call themselves a beleiver should desire to know the WORD.