Bro.Tan

At this time new Jerusalem, the place that Jesus went to prepare, will come down from God out of heaven. Jesus never promised to take us up to this place, "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" (St. John 14:3). Therefore, after Jesus returns and rules for a thousand years, the place that he went to prepare will be seen "...coming down from God out of heaven, prepared-as a bride adorned for her husband" (Revelation 21:2). We won't ever get to heaven, but heaven will get to us. Yes, the kingdom of heaven will be right here on the earth, because God wants his will to be done in earth as it is in heaven.

With all of this evidence of God's kingdom being on the earth, why do so many people believe they are going to heaven? Many people have misunderstood some of Paul's writings (II Peter 3:15-16) and they simply disregard the other scriptures. For instance, what people call "the rapture" is merely the second coming of Jesus. This will not take place before the great tribulation, as commonly taught, but after it. At the sound of the seventh trumpet the dead in Christ, living saints will meet the Lord in the air, But I would not have you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning them which are asleep, that ye sorrow not, even as others which have no hope. For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so them also which sleep in Jesus will God bring with him. For this we say unto you by the word of the Lord, that we which are alive and remain unto the coming of the Lord shall not prevent them which are asleep. For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first: Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord. (I Thessalonians 4:13-17) as he returns to establish his kingdom. 

The sounding of the trumpet lets us know that this "so-called rapture" is after the tribulation, "Immediately after the tribulation...they shall see the son of man coming in the clouds of heaven...and he shall send his angels with a great sound of a trumpet..." (Matthew 24:29:31). Many people teach that the dead saints, such as Elijah, are already in heaven. If this were true then they wouldn't have to be raised from the dead to meet Jesus in the air when he returns. 

On 8/11/2023 at 3:30 PM, other one said:

Keep in mind that the kingdom on earth is only for a thousand years.   We are told that the earth and everything in it will be burned up.  A fire so hot it will melt the elements.

There will be a new heaven and a new earth and the new City of Jerusalem can not possibly exist with the physics that we now have controlling the solar system.   A 1,500 high mile city just isn't possible with today's physics.

The element being burned up is going to happen before the 1000 yrs period. Let's go into Rev 6: 12 And I beheld when he had opened the sixth seal, and, lo, there was a great earthquake; and the sun became black as sackcloth of hair, and the moon became as blood; 13 and the stars of heaven fell unto the earth, even as a fig tree casteth her untimely figs, when she is shaken of a mighty wind. 14And the heaven departed as a scroll when it is rolled together; and every mountain and island were moved out of their places. 15 And the kings of the earth, and the great men, and the rich men, and the chief captains, and the mighty men, and every bondman, and every free man, hid themselves in the dens and in the rocks of the mountains; 16 and said to the mountains and rocks, Fall on us, and hide us from the face of him that sitteth on the throne, and from the wrath of the Lamb: 17 For the great day of his wrath is come; and who shall be able to stand?

This time is during the end of the great tribulation when Jesus is about to make his second coming. Let's look at this again in Matthew 24: 29 Immediately after the tribulation of those days shall the sun be darkened, and the moon shall not give her light, and the stars shall fall from heaven, and the powers of the heavens shall be shaken: 30 and then shall appear the sign of the Son of man in heaven: and then shall all the tribes of the earth mourn, and they shall see the Son of man coming in the clouds of heaven with power and great glory. 31 And he shall send his angels with a great sound of a trumpet, and they shall gather together his elect from the four winds, from one end of heaven to the other.

short version.......So after the war, when man try to fight God with his saints and angels. The earth will be repair and order will be restored. Then come the 1000 yrs period. 

After returning to the earth, Jesus will take over and rule all other ruler ships. I saw in the night visions, and, behold, one like the Son of man came with the clouds of heaven, and came to the Ancient of days, and they brought him near before him. And there was given him dominion, and glory, and a kingdom, that all people, nations, and languages, should serve him: his dominion is an everlasting dominion, which shall not pass away, and his kingdom that which shall not be destroyed. (Daniel 7:13-14). And the seventh angel sounded; and there were great voices in heaven, saying, The kingdoms of this world are become the kingdoms of our Lord, and of his Christ; and he shall reign for ever and ever.(Revelation 11:15).

 That's why he is not only called a king, but called KING OF KINGS AND LORD OF LORDS. "And the kingdom and dominion and the greatness of the kingdom under the whole heaven, shall be given to the people of the saints of the most high, whose kingdom is an everlasting kingdom. AND ALL DOMINIONS SHALL SERVE AND OBEY HIM" (Daniel 7:27). 

I guess the meek will inherit the earth, since the kingdom is under the whole heaven and not up in heaven. As we have seen the kingdom of Jesus will last forever. And I saw thrones, and they sat upon them, and judgment was given unto them: and I saw the souls of them that were beheaded for the witness of Jesus, and for the word of God, and which had not worshipped the beast, neither his image, neither had received his mark upon their foreheads, or in their hands; and they lived and reigned with Christ a thousand years. But the rest of the dead lived not again until the thousand years were finished. This is the first resurrection. Blessed and holy is he that hath part in the first resurrection: on such the second death hath no power, but they shall be priests of God and of Christ, and shall reign with him a thousand years. (Revelation 20:4-6). 

After ruling for a thousand years with his saints, Jesus will then have judgment day. And I saw a great white throne, and him that sat on it, from whose face the earth and the heaven fled away; and there was found no place for them. And I saw the dead, small and great, stand before God; and the books were opened: and another book was opened, which is the book of life: and the dead were judged out of those things which were written in the books, according to their works. And the sea gave up the dead which were in it; and death and hell delivered up the dead which were in them: and they were judged every man according to their works. And death and hell were cast into the lake of fire. This is the second death. And whosoever was not found written in the book of life was cast into the lake of fire. 

(Revelation 20: 11-15) Read the whole chapter! All who are found worthy will enter into his kingdom and the rest will enter the lake of fire. 

Some believe that Jesus will never actually come back to the earth, but will rule over the earth from heaven. However, the gospel teaches that Jesus will sit on a throne on the earth in Jerusalem. Even before he was born the angel Gabriel informed his mother, Mary of the fact, "...and the Lord God shall give unto him the throne of his father David and he shall reign over the house of Jacob forever; and of his kingdom there shall be no end" (Luke 1:32-33). King Israel, 

David never ruled in heaven, but he sat on a throne on the earth in Jerusalem. According to the gospel, Jesus will do the same and he told us this very plainly saying, "Jerusalem...is the city of the great king" (Matthew 5:35). Now, if we intend to dwell with Jesus then where will we be? Sitting with him on his throne in Jerusalem. " To him that overcometh will I grant to sit with me in my throne, even as I overcame, and am set down with my Father in his throne" (Revelation 3:21). 

Notice that Jesus didn't promise us we would sit with him on his Father's throne in heaven, but he promised us we would sit with him on his own throne on the earth. Of course we must overcome by keeping his commandments until the end. Jesus is called a king throughout the bible, but people don't seem to take this fact literally. 

Pilate answered, Am I a Jew? Thine own nation and the chief priests have delivered thee unto me: what hast thou done? Jesus answered, My kingdom is not of this world: if my kingdom were of this world, then would my servants fight, that I should not be delivered to the Jews: but now is my kingdom not from hence.

So we see Jesus kingdom is not yet, but let’s see what else was said to Jesus, by Pilate.

Pilate therefore said unto him, Art thou a king then? Jesus answered, Thou sayest that I am a king. To this end was I born, and for this cause came I into the world, that I should bear witness unto the truth. Every one that is of the truth heareth my voice. Jesus said that he was born into the world to be a king (St. John 18:35,36,37). Now when Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judaea in the days of Herod the king, behold, there came wise men from the east to Jerusalem, Saying, Where is he that is born King of the Jews? for we have seen his star in the east, and are come to worship him. After he was born and just a baby, the wise men came looking for him "...(Matthew 2:1). 

When he died for our sins, this was even the title written on his cross, "...JESUS OF NAZARETH THE KING OF THE JEWS." Nevertheless, all kings must have a place to rule from, just as the emperors ruled from Rome and president’s rule from Washington, D. C. Well, Jesus is the great king and Jerusalem is the city that he will rule from. 

What is the gospel of Jesus? Is it merely the news that he was born in a manger? Is it confined to the miracles and healing Jesus did while walking the earth? Maybe it's simply the news of his death and resurrection? Well, all of these things are a part of the gospel, but the good news that Jesus preached is much more "... Jesus came into Galilee, preaching the gospel of the kingdom of God" (Mark 1:14). This is the gospel of Jesus. Nowadays many fail to preach the gospel of God's kingdom. Why? The bible teaches that Satan has deceived the whole world (Revelation 12:9). Jesus said that many would come preaching in his name and yet deceive many (Matthews 24:5). This is why pastors everywhere claim to be fulfilling the great commission (spreading the gospel all over the world), but never mention the coming of God's kingdom. Therefore, many people are deceived and have not heard the gospel of Jesus. Instead they hear and believe another gospel, which teaches that they are going to heaven. This is not the gospel of Jesus! 

All over the bible, from the promise to Abraham in Genesis to the second coming of Jesus in Revelation, the Lord reveals that his kingdom will be on earth. This message is supposed to be good news to us, especially considering the condition of the world. We should be glad to know that God is going to straighten out the trouble and confusion that's presently in the world. Jesus even told us to pray for the fulfillment of his gospel, "Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven" (Matthew 6:10). Jesus also warned us to repent (turn from our sins) and be prepared for the coming of his kingdom. If we truly believe the gospel, then we will obey God's commandments. "...The unrighteous shall not inherit the kingdom of God" (I Corinthians 6:9). 

However, Jesus said the… Blessed are the meek: for they shall inherit the earth. (Matthew 5:5). Now why in the world would the meek want to inherit the earth if God is supposed to take us to heaven? Maybe the meek are not so blessed after all?! Yes, the meek are blessed because 

they will be on the earth, in God's kingdom. "...but the wicked shall not inhabit the earth" (Proverbs 10:30). Therefore, repent and believe the gospel (Mark 1:15). Jesus never promised to take us to heaven. As a matter of fact Jesus said that no man went up to heaven except he (speaking of himself) that came down from heaven (St. John 3:13). Jesus promised us we would dwell with him on the earth. That's right, Jesus is returning to establish the kingdom of God. If we have faith and obey him, we will rule with him on the earth, "And hast made us unto our God kings and priests; and we shall reign on the earth" (Revelation 5:10).

50 minutes ago, LearningToLetGo said:

Would you trade obedience and love of God for salvation?

I would trade everything for Salvation, just as if a person want a car real bad, they would trade all they have to get it.

But the question is foolish it have know point, because Jesus teach us how to love and obedience, it's through his Commandments, Statues, and Judgment.  

50 minutes ago, LearningToLetGo said:

In other words, if God judged you unfit for heaven would you cease to love Him?

Sounds like a person who says they keep God Commandments and really don't. Then that person really didn't love him in the first place. Or maybe they think they keeping his Commandment, but then God deal with ignorant different then those who really know the truth.

50 minutes ago, LearningToLetGo said:

Would you willingly accept His judgement or would you disobey and rail against Him?

What good would railing do at that point, the books in Revelation 20: 11 And I saw a great white throne, and him that sat on it, from whose face the earth and the heaven fled away; and there was found no place for them. 12 And I saw the dead, small and great, stand before God; and the books were opened: and another book was opened, which is the book of life: and the dead were judged out of those things which were written in the books, according to their works. 13And the sea gave up the dead which were in it; and death and hell delivered up the dead which were in them: and they were judged every man according to their works. 14 And death and hell were cast into the lake of fire. This is the second death. 15 And whosoever was not found written in the book of life was cast into the lake of fire.

You now should clearly understand these verses that the Master is saying here. 

Let's go into Matthew 10:37 He that loveth father or mother more than me is not worthy of me: and he that loveth son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me. 38 And he that taketh not his cross, and followeth after me, is not worthy of me. 39 He that findeth his life shall lose it: and he that loseth his life for my sake shall find it. 

Will you deny the LORD for your mother or your father or any other family member? Will you turn away from His law for someone in your family? Look and see who the LORD considers family members.

Let's go into Matthew 12:46 While he yet talked to the people, behold, his mother and his brethren stood without, desiring to speak with him. 47 Then one said unto him, Behold, thy mother and thy brethren stand without, desiring to speak with thee. 48 But he answered and said unto him that told him, Who is my mother? and who are my brethren? 49 And he stretched forth his hand toward his disciples, and said, Behold my mother and my brethren! 50 For whosoever shall do the will of my Father which is in heaven, the same is my brother, and sister, and mother.

So I see, if you do the will of the Father in heaven you are a family member. 

Similar event is coming in the future. Let’s take a look in Revelation 13: 7 And it was given unto him to make war with the saints, and to overcome them: and power was given him over all kindreds, and tongues, and nations. 8 And all that dwell upon the earth shall worship him, whose names are not written in the book of life of the Lamb slain from the foundation of the world. 9 If any man have an ear, let him hear. 10 He that leadeth into captivity shall go into captivity: he that killeth with the sword must be killed with the sword. Here is the patience and the faith of the saints. 11 And I beheld another beast coming up out of the earth; and he had two horns like a lamb, and he spake as a dragon. 12 And he exerciseth all the power of the first beast before him, and causeth the earth and them which dwell therein to worship the first beast, whose deadly wound was healed. 13 And he doeth great wonders, so that he maketh fire come down from heaven on the earth in the sight of men, 14 and deceiveth them that dwell on the earth by the means of those miracles which he had power to do in the sight of the beast; saying to them that dwell on the earth, that they should make an image to the beast, which had the wound by a sword, and did live. 15 And he had power to give life unto the image of the beast, that the image of the beast should both speak, and cause that as many as would not worship the image of the beast should be killed. 16 And he causeth all, both small and great, rich and poor, free and bond, to receive a mark in their right hand, or in their foreheads: 17 and that no man might buy or sell, save he that had the mark, or the name of the beast, or the number of his name. 18 Here is wisdom. Let him that hath understanding count the number of the beast: for it is the number of a man; and his number is Six hundred threescore and six.

Are you ready for this? Notice there’s and image of the beast and a number 666, just like in Daniel time, but a little more graphic in our time. This man actually have power to make fire come down, like in the days of Job, and make the image speak. Can’t buy or sell unless you have the mark!

Look here in Daniel and see the power of the GOD of Israel and what he will do if you don't deny Him. The king of Babylon made an image and told everyone to bow down to it when they heard music. What did the brothers do? Let's find out. 

Daniel 3:1 Nebuchadnezzar the king made an image of gold, whose height was threescore cubits, and the breadth thereof six cubits: he set it up in the plain of Dura, in the province of 

Babylon. 2 Then Nebuchadnezzar the king sent to gather together the princes, the governors, and the captains, the judges, the treasurers, the counsellors, the sheriffs, and all the rulers of the provinces, to come to the dedication of the image which Nebuchadnezzar the king had set up. 3 Then the princes, the governors, and captains, the judges, the treasurers, the counsellors, the sheriffs, and all the rulers of the provinces, were gathered together unto the dedication of the image that Nebuchadnezzar the king had set up; and they stood before the image that Nebuchadnezzar had set up. 4 Then an herald cried aloud, To you it is commanded, O people, nations, and languages, 5 That at what time ye hear the sound of the cornet, flute, harp, sackbut, psaltery, dulcimer, and all kinds of music, ye fall down and worship the golden image that Nebuchadnezzar the king hath set up: 6 And whoso falleth not down and worshippeth shall the same hour be cast into the midst of a burning fiery furnace.

8 Wherefore at that time certain Chaldeans came near, and accused the Jews. 12 There are certain Jews whom thou hast set over the affairs of the province of Babylon, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego; these men, O king, have not regarded thee: they serve not thy gods, nor worship the golden image which thou hast set up. 14 Nebuchadnezzar spake and said unto them, Is it true, O Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, do not ye serve my gods, nor worship the golden image which I have set up? 15 Now if ye be ready that at what time ye hear the sound of the cornet, flute, harp, sackbut, psaltery, and dulcimer, and all kinds of music, ye fall down and worship the image which I have made; well: but if ye worship not, ye shall be cast the same hour into the midst of a burning fiery furnace; and who is that God that shall deliver you out of my hands? 16 Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, answered and said to the king, O Nebuchadnezzar, we are not careful to answer thee in this matter. 17 If it be so, our God whom we serve is able to deliver us from the burning fiery furnace, and he will deliver us out of thine hand, O king. 18 But if not, be it known unto thee, O king, that we will not serve thy gods, nor worship the golden image which thou hast set up. 23 And these three men, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, fell down bound into the midst of the burning fiery furnace. 24 Then Nebuchadnezzar the king was astonied, and rose up in haste, and spake, and said unto his counsellors, Did not we cast three men bound into the midst of the fire? They answered and said unto the king, True, O king. 

25 He answered and said, Lo, I see four men loose, walking in the midst of the fire, and they have no hurt; and the form of the fourth is like the Son of God. 26 Then Nebuchadnezzar came near to the mouth of the burning fiery furnace, and spake, and said, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, ye servants of the most high God, come forth, and come hither. Then Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, came forth of the midst of the fire. 27 And the princes, governors, and captains, and the king's counsellors, being gathered together, saw these men, upon whose bodies the fire had no power, nor was an hair of their head singed, neither were their coats changed, nor the smell of fire had passed on them. 28 Then Nebuchadnezzar spake, and said, Blessed be the God of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, who hath sent his angel, and delivered his servants that trusted in him, and have changed the king's word, and yielded their bodies, that they might not serve nor worship any god, except their own God. 29 Therefore I make a decree, That every people, nation, and language, which speak any thing amiss against the God of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, shall be cut in pieces, and their houses shall be made a dunghill: because there is no other God that can deliver after this sort. 

See how they stood they ground. Look what they said in verse 16, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, answered and said to the king, O Nebuchadnezzar, we are not careful to answer thee in this matter. Look at verse 17 and 18, If it be so, our God whom we serve is able to deliver us from the burning fiery furnace, and he will deliver us out of thine hand, O king. But if not, be it known unto thee, O king, that we will not serve thy gods, nor worship the golden image which thou hast set up. They did not care what the king said or what he was going to do, they still did not deny God. Look what the king said after the angel delivered Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah. Verses 26,28 ,29, . 26 Then Nebuchadnezzar came near to the mouth of the burning fiery furnace, and spake, and said, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, ye servants of the most high God, come forth, and come hither. Then Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, came forth of the midst of the fire. 28 Then Nebuchadnezzar spake, and said, Blessed be the God of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, who hath sent his angel, and delivered his servants that trusted in him, and have changed the king's word, and yielded their bodies, that they might not serve nor worship any god, except their own God. 29 Therefore I make a decree, That every people, nation, and language, which speak any thing amiss against the God of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, shall be cut in pieces, and their houses shall be made a dunghill: because there is no other God that can deliver after this sort. Can you handle that? 

18 hours ago, Arrabon said:

@Bro.Tan

For me, Peter said it best in John 6:67-69, "…67So Jesus asked the Twelve, “Do you want to leave too, as others have?” 68Simon Peter replied, “Lord, to whom would we go? You have the words of eternal life. 69We believe and know that You are the Holy One of God.”…

What more could anyone say??

That's right, and Jesus says in verse  63 It is the spirit that quickeneth; the flesh profiteth nothing: the words that I speak unto you, they are spirit, and they are life. 64 But there are some of you that believe not. 

The things is we coming up on prophecy, we are in the last days. Situation will test the faith of many. Time to really get prepare in this word of God!

Here are some brothers that stood their ground. Look also who is doing the persecuting. 

Nothing has changed. 

In Acts 5:17 Then the high priest rose up, and all they that were with him, (which is the sect of the Sadducees,) and were filled with indignation, 18 And laid their hands on the apostles, and put them in the common prison. 19 But the angel of the Lord by night opened the prison doors, and brought them forth, and said, 20 Go, stand and speak in the temple to the people all the words of this life. 26 Then went the captain with the officers, and brought them without violence: for they feared the people, lest they should have been stoned. 27 And when they had brought them, they set them before the council: and the high priest asked them, 28 Saying, Did not we straitly command you that ye should not teach in this name? and, behold, ye have filled Jerusalem with your doctrine, and intend to bring this man's blood upon us.

29 Then Peter and the other apostles answered and said, We ought to obey God rather than men. 30 The God of our fathers raised up Jesus, whom ye slew and hanged on a tree. 31 Him hath God exalted with his right hand to be a Prince and a Saviour, for to give repentance to Israel, and forgiveness of sins. 32 And we are his witnesses of these things; and so is also the Holy Ghost, whom God hath given to them that obey him. 

33 When they heard that, they were cut to the heart, and took counsel to slay them. 34 Then stood there up one in the council, a Pharisee, named Gamaliel, a doctor of the law, had in reputation among all the people, and commanded to put the apostles forth a little space; 40 And to him they agreed: and when they had called the apostles, and beaten them, they commanded that they should not speak in the name of Jesus, and let them go. 41 And they departed from the presence of the council, rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer shame for his name. 

The high priest had the brothers beaten and wanted to kill them. Why? They preached in the name of JESUS. You also saw how the angel of the LORD saved them out of prison. When they were freed by the angel, what did they do? They went back into the temple and preached JESUS. After they were beaten, what did they do? Verse 41, And they departed from the presence of the council, rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer shame for HIS name. Can you handle that? 

Salvation, what would you trade fore it?  I remember when I first heard this question, I gave the same answer I see here on the forum. But the answer is everything or anything! See the question is about what you have on this earth or gain, right. Now you came in this world with nothing, and throughout life you gain, things, even people.

Let's take a look at a example of what I'm saying in Judges were Jepthah made a vow to God and he kept it, but the vow was foolish. 

Judges 11:1 Now Jephthah the Gileadite was a mighty man of valour, and he was the son of an harlot: and Gilead begat Jephthah. 2 And Gilead's wife bare him sons; and his wife's sons grew up, and they thrust out Jephthah, and said unto him, Thou shalt not inherit in our father's house; for thou art the son of a strange woman. 3 Then Jephthah fled from his brethren, and dwelt in the land of Tob: and there were gathered vain men to Jephthah, and went out with him. 4 And it came to pass in process of time, that the children of Ammon made war against Israel. 5 And it was so, that when the children of Ammon made war against Israel, the elders of Gilead went to fetch Jephthah out of the land of Tob: 6 And they said unto Jephthah, Come, and be our captain, that we may fight with the children of Ammon. 7 And Jephthah said unto the elders of Gilead, Did not ye hate me, and expel me out of my father's house? and why are ye come unto me now when ye are in distress? 8 And the elders of Gilead said unto Jephthah, Therefore we turn again to thee now, that thou mayest go with us, and fight against the children of Ammon, and be our head over all the inhabitants of Gilead. 9 And Jephthah said unto the elders of Gilead, If ye bring me home again to fight against the children of Ammon, and the LORD deliver them before me, shall I be your head? 30 And Jephthah vowed a vow unto the LORD, and said, If thou shalt without fail deliver the children of Ammon into mine hands, 31 Then it shall be, that whatsoever cometh forth of the doors of my house to meet me, when I return in peace from the children of Ammon, shall surely be the LORD'S, and I will offer it up for a burnt offering. 32 So Jephthah passed over unto the children of Ammon to fight against them; and the LORD delivered them into his hands. 

33 And he smote them from Aroer, even till thou come to Minnith, even twenty cities, and unto the plain of the vineyards, with a very great slaughter. Thus the children of Ammon were subdued before the children of Israel. 34 And Jephthah came to Mizpeh unto his house, and, behold, his daughter came out to meet him with timbrels and with dances: and she was his only child; beside her he had neither on nor daughter. 35 And it came to pass, when he saw her, that he rent his clothes, and said, Alas, my daughter! thou hast brought me very low, and thou art one of them that trouble me: for I have opened my mouth unto the LORD, and I cannot go back. 36 And she said unto him, My father, if thou hast opened thy mouth unto the LORD, do to me according to that which hath proceeded out of thy mouth; forasmuch as the LORD hath taken vengeance for thee of thine enemies, even of the children of Ammon. 37 And she said unto her father, Let this thing be done for me: let me alone two months, that I may go up and down upon the mountains, and bewail my virginity, I and my fellows. 38 And he said, Go. And he sent her away for two months: and she went with her companions, and bewailed her virginity upon the mountains. 39 And it came to pass at the end of two months, that she returned unto her father, who did with her according to his vow which he had vowed: and she knew no man. And it was a custom in Israel, 

See what can happen if you make a vow and not think about it before you make it. Notice what his daughter said in verse 36. And she said unto him, My father, if thou hast opened thy mouth unto the LORD, do to me according to that which hath proceeded out of thy mouth; forasmuch as the LORD hath taken vengeance for thee of thine enemies, even of the children of Ammon. His daughter knew what would happen if he did not keep his vow. 

Look at verse 37 And she said unto her father, Let this thing be done for me: let me alone two months, that I may go up and down upon the mountains, and bewail my virginity, I and my fellows. 39 And it came to pass at the end of two months, that she returned unto her father, who did with her according to his vow which he had vowed: and she knew no man. And it was a custom in Israel. She could have left but she did not. This got Jephthah eternal life, you will see that later. 

Listen very carefully to what the Master is saying here. 

Mark 8: 34 And when he had called the people unto him with his disciples also, he said unto them, Whosoever will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me. 35 For whosoever will save his life shall lose it; but whosoever shall lose his life for my sake and the gospel's, the same shall save it. 36 For what shall it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? 37  Or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul? 38 Whosoever therefore shall be ashamed of me and of my words in this adulterous and sinful generation; of him also shall the Son of man be ashamed, when he cometh in the glory of his Father with the holy angels. 

Look at verse 35 in Mark, For whosoever will save his life shall lose it; but whosoever shall lose his life for my sake and the gospel's, the same shall save it. What life are you losing? That sinful life. If you pick up his cross and bare it, you put off that old man and put on the new. Verse 36, For what shall it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? Remember you cannot take anything with you into the next life. What shall you give in exchange for eternal life in the GOD family? Look what JESUS says here. Whosoever therefore shall be ashamed of me and of my words in this adulterous and sinful generation; of him also shall the Son of man be ashamed, when he cometh in the glory of his Father with the holy angels. So when you are being persecuted for the Word's sake, and you are ashamed instead of standing your ground, HE will be ashamed to mention you when he returns. Do you know what that means? You will hit the Lake Of Fire. 

Here in Acts is an example, if you make a vow to GOD you had better keep it.

Acts 5:1 But a certain man named Ananias, with Sapphira his wife, sold a possession, 2 And kept back part of the price, his wife also being privy to it, and brought a certain part, and laid it, at the apostles' feet. 3 But Peter said, Ananias, why hath Satan filled thine heart to lie to the Holy Ghost, and to keep back part of the price of the land? 4 Whiles it remained, was it not thine own? and after it was sold, was it not in thine own power? why hast thou conceived this thing in thine heart? thou hast not lied unto men, but unto God. 5 And Ananias hearing these words fell down, and gave up the ghost: and great fear came on all them that heard these things. 6 And the young men arose, wound him up, and carried him out, and buried him.

7 And it was about the space of three hours after, when his wife, not knowing what was done, came in. 8 And Peter answered unto her, Tell me whether ye sold the land for so much? And she said, Yea, for so much. 9 Then Peter said unto her, How is it that ye have agreed together to tempt the Spirit of the Lord? behold, the feet of them which have buried thy husband are at the door, and shall carry thee out. 10 Then fell she down straightway at his feet, and yielded up the ghost: and the young men came in, and found her dead, and, carrying her forth, buried her by her husband. 

Would you have traded your salvation for a piece of land? Everything that you have in this world, you cannot take it to the next. Have you ever seen a Brink's truck follow a rich man to the grave? No. If you know a person is doing something that is contrary to the Law, don't agree with them, tell them they are wrong, or you may find yourself like these two people that put "man's face" on GOD. They thought that they were making a vow to Peter and the rest of the apostles. 

Salvation, what would you trade fore it? This is a question you should ask yourself. The answer should be nothing. As you read through this lesson you will see people that would not trade their salvation for anything. If you can get to the point where these brothers and sisters were, you are standing on solid ground. In this class there are also brothers and sisters putting "the face of man"on God and they lost their life. Keep in mind, the same God back then is the same God today. 

In this set of scriptures the LORD chose the tribe of Levi to execute the service of the LORD. Before he did that he had Moses clean them up. This should let you know when you come before the LORD you must be clean. Clean your act up first, and then go to the LORD. You cannot come to HIM as you are. We are no longer under the laws of sacrifice, Jesus is our sacrifice once and for all, and the water you must be cleansed by is His word. Here in Numbers, actual water was used to cleanse the Levites. The Lord does something physical to let you know later there is a spiritual side also. 

Numbers 8:5 And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying, Take the Levites from among the children of Israel, and cleanse them. 7 And thus shalt thou do unto them, to cleanse them: Sprinkle water of purifying upon them, and let them shave all their flesh, and let them wash their clothes, and so make themselves clean. 8 Then let them take a young bullock with his meat offering, even fine flour mingled with oil, and another young bullock shalt thou take for a sin offering. 9 And thou shalt bring the Levites before the tabernacle of the congregation: and thou shalt gather the whole assembly of the children of Israel together: 10 And thou shalt bring the Levites before the LORD: and the children of Israel shall put their hands upon the Levites: 11 And Aaron shall offer the Levites before the LORD for an offering of the children of Israel, that they may execute the service of the LORD. 

12 And the Levites shall lay their hands upon the heads of the bullocks: and thou shalt offer the one for a sin offering, and the other for a burnt offering, unto the LORD, to make an atonement for the Levites. 13 And thou shalt set the Levites before Aaron, and before his sons, and offer them for an offering unto the LORD. 14 Thus shalt thou separate the Levites from among the children of Israel: and the Levites shall be mine. 15 And after that shall the Levites go in to do the service of the tabernacle of the congregation: and thou shalt cleanse them, and offer them for an offering. 16 For they are wholly given unto me from among the children of Israel; instead of such as open every womb, even instead of the firstborn of all the children of Israel, have I taken them unto me. 17 For all the firstborn of the children of Israel are mine, both man and beast: on the day that I smote every firstborn in the land of Egypt I sanctified them for myself. 18 And I have taken the Levites for all the firstborn of the children of Israel. 19 And I have given the Levites as a gift to Aaron and to his sons from among the children of Israel, to do the service of the children of Israel in the tabernacle of the congregation, and to make an atonement for the children of Israel: that there be no plague among the children of Israel, when the children of Israel come nigh unto the sanctuary.

Here we have two of Aaron's sons, keep in mind that they knew the law, they are sons of the high priest. Look what happened. 

Leviticus 10:1 And Nadab and Abihu, the sons of Aaron, took either of them his censer, and put fire therein, and put incense thereon, and offered strange fire before the LORD, which he commanded them not. 2 And there went out fire from the LORD, and devoured them, and they died before the LORD.

Think about this. You have been given understanding of the scriptures and you know how dangerous the God Of Israel is, and you disobey his commandments anyway. You saw what happened to Nadab and Abihu, this could happen to you, me or anyone that truly understands the word of God. 

Let's take a look at the commandment that was given. Keep in mind the LORD is giving the law. 

Leviticus 6:8 And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying, 9 Command Aaron and his sons, saying, This is the law of the burnt offering: It is the burnt offering, because of the burning upon the altar all night unto the morning, and the fire of the altar shall be burning in it. 10 And the priest shall put on his linen garment, and his linen breeches shall he put upon his flesh, and take up the ashes which the fire hath consumed with the burnt offering on the altar, and he shall put them beside the altar. 11 And he shall put off his garments, and put on other garments, and carry forth the ashes without the camp unto a clean place. 12 And the fire upon the altar shall be burning in it; it shall not be put out: and the priest shall burn wood on it every morning, and lay the burnt offering in order upon it; and he shall burn thereon the fat of the peace offerings. 13 The fire shall ever be burning upon the altar; it shall never go out. 

Look at verse 12, And the fire upon the altar shall be burning in it; it shall not be put out. The fire on the alter shall never go out. Where did the two sons get the fire? It wasn't from the altar. Verse 13, The fire shall ever be burning upon the altar; it shall never go out. That is real clear. 

Check out what Moses tells Aaron. 

Leviticus 10:3 Then Moses said unto Aaron, This is it that the LORD spake, saying, I will be sanctified in them that come nigh me, and before all the people I will be glorified. And Aaron held his peace. 4 And Moses called Mishael and Elzaphan, the sons of Uzziel the uncle of Aaron, and said unto them, Come near, carry your brethren from before the sanctuary out of the camp. 5 So they went near, and carried them in their coats out of the camp; as Moses had said. 6 And Moses said unto Aaron, and unto Eleazar and unto Ithamar, his sons, Uncover not your heads, neither rend your clothes; lest ye die, and lest wrath come upon all the people: but let your brethren, the whole house of Israel, bewail the burning which the LORD hath kindled. 

7 And ye shall not go out from the door of the tabernacle of the congregation, lest ye die: for the anointing oil of the LORD is upon you. And they did according to the word of Moses. 16 And Moses diligently sought the goat of the sin offering, and, behold, it was burnt: and he was angry with Eleazar and Ithamar, the sons of Aaron which were left alive, saying, 17 Wherefore have ye not eaten the sin offering in the holy place, seeing it is most holy, and God hath given it you to bear the iniquity of the congregation, to make atonement for them before the LORD? 18 Behold, the blood of it was not brought in within the holy place: ye should indeed have eaten it in the holy place, as I commanded. 19 And Aaron said unto Moses, Behold, this day have they offered their sin offering and their burnt offering before the LORD; and such things have befallen me: and if I had eaten the sin offering today, should it have been accepted in the sight of the LORD? 20 And when Moses heard that, he was content. 

Here is a requirement of the ALMIGHTY. Look at verse 3, Then Moses said unto Aaron, This is it that the LORD spake, saying, I will be sanctified in them that come nigh me, and before all the people I will be glorified. And Aaron held his peace. 

How is the LORD sanctified in you today? By keeping his word (commandments, laws, statues). 

Notice this in verse 6, And Moses said unto Aaron, and unto Eleazar and unto Ithamar, his sons, Uncover not your heads, neither rend your clothes; lest ye die, and lest wrath come upon all the people: but let your brethren, the whole house of Israel, bewail the burning which the LORD hath kindled. 

This also goes for us that serve the true and living God. Perhaps you have a family member that breaks GOD'S laws, would you side with a family member or with the one that holds your breath. Moses told Aaron and his sons not to mourn, let your brethren bewail the lost. Can we handle something like that? If not, we are not worthy to attain salvation. 

Look at verse 19, And Aaron said unto Moses, Behold, this day have they offered their sin offering and their burnt offering before the LORD; and such things have befallen me: and if I had eaten the sin offering today, should it have been accepted in the sight of the LORD? Aaron did everything he was suppose to do but his mind wasn't right. He just lost 2 sons, but the service of the tabernacle must continue. 

On 9/5/2021 at 10:52 AM, LittleMan123 said:

I apologize for not posting in a long time.

Here's my news. A few months ago, I became an atheist. I converted with a heavy heart, but we don't believe what we want to be true; we believe what we are convinced is true.

I believed in God for years. The thought of a better world after this miserable life gave me hope. But now I know everything will end in my grave.

And now, I live with no hope, no joy. Everything seems pointless to me, since I know that the death that awaits me will take everything away from me. It's pointless to get bonded with anyone when I know that I will never see them again when they perish. What does it matter if I love people? I cannot save them from eternal oblivion, just as they cannot save me.

When I said the above to my mom (I don't know about her, but she's probably an atheist too)

But I cannot simply disregard the fact that I'm doomed to oblivion and 'live my life here and now'. I'm depressed. I try to resume my everyday routine as before, but I have nightmares. The thought that there is nothing after death and I'm doomed to be erased from existence comes to my sleep.

People on an atheist forum told me that what I feel is normal, that atheism takes some getting used to. But, having been depressed for months over that, I don't think I will ever reach the fifth stage of grief. They also told me to call suicide hotline if I feel suicidal. The truth is, I don't have any strong suicidal impulses, at least as of yet.

A part of me wishes I had never found out. But another part of me is glad I did. As a Russian saying says, better be slapped with the truth than be kissed with lies. If anyone thinks I'm wrong, feel free to convince me otherwise.

Before I read that you said you was depressed, I already knew this what that is. That's an evil spirit that pushes the thoughts of the mind like that. But if you give on Jesus they are winning. Jesus said in (Matt. 16:24-27) (v.24) Then said Jesus unto his disciples, if any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me. That was the Lord’s burden, to die on the cross for the sins of man. Now as we read earlier every man must bear his own burden, and what is your burden? (v.25) For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: and whosoever will lose his life for my sake shall find it. You must give up your life in this world; you must not get caught up in the cares of this world. You must bring forth-good fruits of faith by keeping God’s commandments, statues, and judgments. (v.26) For what is a man profited, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? Or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul? 

I'm not convince you atheist yet, but remove the spirit that's causing the the affliction then you see clearer and feel better. But you have to stay in this fight, because that's what it is, a fight. Take a look at what Paul says in 1 Timothy 6: 11 But thou, O man of God, flee these things; and follow after righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, meekness. 12 Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, whereunto thou art also called, and hast professed a good profession before many witnesses. 13 I give thee charge in the sight of God, who quickeneth all things, and before Christ Jesus, who before Pontius Pilate witnessed a good confession; 14 that thou keep this commandment without spot, unrebukeable, until the appearing of our Lord Jesus Christ: 15 which in his times he shall shew, who is the blessed and only Potentate, the King of kings, and Lord of lords; 16 who only hath immortality, dwelling in the light which no man can approach unto; whom no man hath seen, nor can see: to whom be honour and power everlasting. Amen.

This is how you start getting those spirits off of you and, fighting the good fight. Paul says godliness, faith, love, patience, meekness also keep this commandment without spot, unrebukeable, until the appearing of our Lord Jesus Christ. We have do to do these things. Some of the great patriarchs in (Heb.11) gave up a lot, some even their lives in exchange for their soul. You see they had great faith (belief) that their souls (bodies) would be raised at the first resurrection. I hope this helps!

Remember brothers and sisters Jesus, states in Matthew 5 and verse 18, "For verily I say unto you, till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law, till all be fulfilled." We still have the heavens and the earth, correct? Those things indicate that the Lord's law still remains in tact. Those that read the Bible know that all has not been fulfilled, so His laws and statutes must be kept.

Then came to Jesus the Scribes and Pharisees, which were of Jerusalem, saying, “Why do thy disciples transgress the tradition of the elders? for they wash not their hands when they eat bread.” (Matthew 15:1-2) 

Note what verse the states, "they wash not their hands when they eat bread." We see the subject is, eating without washing hands correct? Note something else in the above verse. The Pharisees asked Jesus, “Why do thy disciples transgress the tradition of the elders?” Note the Lord's response; 

But he answered and said unto them, “Why do ye also transgress the commandment of God by your tradition? For God commanded, saying, Honour thy father and mother: and, He that curseth father or mother, let him die the death. But ye say, whosoever shall say to his father or his mother, It is a gift, by whatsoever thou mightest be profited by me; and honour not his father or his mother, he shall be free. Thus have ye made the commandment of God of none effect by your tradition.” (Matthew 15: 3-6) 

The Pharisees followed their own tradition as a substitute to the commandments of God. Note what Jesus says next.

Ye hypocrites, well did Esaiah prophesy of you, saying, “This people draweth nigh unto me with their mouth, and honoureth me with their lips; but their heart is far from me. But in vain they do worship me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men.” (Matthew 15:7-9) 

The Pharisees of today (meaning the preachers) teach the doctrine of men, by making statements such as, "We are not under the law we are under grace.” Not knowing which law we are no longer under. Therefore their flocks are ever learning, meaning not coming to the true faith. Thus they worship the Lord in vain. 

Sisters and brothers, this is the law of the beasts, and of the fowl, and of every living creature that moveth in the waters, and of every creature that creepeth upon the earth: To make a difference between the unclean and the clean, and between the beast that may be eaten and the beast that may not be eaten. Leviticus 11:46-47 For I am the LORD your God: ye shall therefore sanctify yourselves, and ye shall be holy; for I am holy: neither shall ye defile yourselves with any manner of creeping thing that creepeth upon the earth. (Leviticus 11:44) 

Jesus warned us that the road to salvation is straight and narrow and that only a few of us will find it. Many are traveling down the wrong road, which leads to destruction. This is because many of us have heard about salvation but few of us want to do what is necessary to get salvation (many are called but few are chosen). (Matthew 7:13, 14) Many contend that Jesus did it all and now all we have to do is have faith. Nevertheless, the bible speaks of only one way to get eternal salvation. "One Lord, one faith, one baptism, one God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, and in you all.” (Ephesians 4:5,6).  The road to eternal salvation starts with knowledge of the Holy Scriptures. God doesn't want us to memorize two or three verses, but instead he left the entire bible so we can learn how to get salvation. If we learn it, believe it and obey it (the bible), salvation will be our reward. For the Son of man shall come in the glory of his Father with his angels; and then he shall reward every man according to his works. (Matthew 16:27)

The bible says, we must not only be a hearer of the word, but a doer of the word also (James 1:21-22). DON'T FOOL YOURSELF! If we really have faith in Jesus our actions will prove it. If Jesus is our Lord then we will obey him. Even a child will obey a parent, by getting good grades in school, for the reward of a new bicycle. The child cannot earn money for the bicycle, but instead must act upon their faith to receive the free gift. We must do the same to receive eternal life. "FAITH WITHOUT WORKS IS DEAD" (James 2:20).

 A man asked Jesus this very question, "...What good thing shall I do that I may have eternal life?", and Jesus replied, Why callest thou me good? there is none good but one, that is, God: but if thou wilt enter into life, keep the commandments. (Matthew 19:16-19). 

This was a direct answer to a direct question, which all of us will do well to take heed to. Anybody can claim to have faith, but actions speak louder than words. Faith and works go together and you can't have one without the other. "Here is the patience of the saints; here are they that keep the commandments of God and the faith of Jesus" (Revelation 14:12). 

On 7/24/2021 at 9:36 AM, Tammy Roesch said:

"Prove all things; hold fast that which is good." 1 Thessalonians 5:21.

With all the MISINFORMATION out there, it's very difficult to "PROVE ALL THINGS". Nearly impossible to ALWAYS know who is telling the TRUTH & who is LYING.

Thankfully, when we read the Bible, we don't have to PROVE ALL THINGS....because the Bible is TRUE, it never LIES. What we do have to PROVE are the human interpretations put on the Bible. Our job is to determine, with the help of the Holy Spirit, which interpretations are TRUE and which interpretations are LIES and to "HOLD FAST" to the true ones.

There are many parts of the Bible that are not hard to understand, even a child can understand them, they are as CLEAR AS NOON DAY.

And then there are other parts that are not so clear, and that is where we often read other humans understanding of those parts and that is where we must PROVE ALL THINGS.

It's good to prove all thing because we living in a world where Satan has his own ministers and they bring you his doctrine. Paul says in (2 Cor.11: 13-15) For such are false apostles, deceitful workers, transforming themselves into the apostles of Christ. (v.14) And no marvel; for Satan himself is transformed into an angel of light. (v.15) Therefore it is no great thing if his ministers also be transformed as the ministers of righteousness; whose end shall be according to their works.

So I agree that the Bible, the word of God is true. Let's also take a look at what Peter says for those who may not understand something or has confusion about a matter.  We have also a more sure word of prophecy; whereunto ye do well that ye take heed, as unto a light that shineth in a dark place, until the day dawn, and the day star arise in your hearts: knowing this first, that no prophecy of the scripture is of any private interpretation. For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost. (2 Peter 1: 19-21)

On 7/19/2021 at 10:58 PM, Kot said:

People say, for many reasons, that they are Christians. However, to be a full Christian one must Believe in Jesus Christ, be baptized in water, and finally, receive the Holy Spirit (John 3: 5-8). These are the three things that certify one to be called a Christian. Many people believed in Jesus Christian and were baptized in water in the name of Jesus Christ but they did not receive the Holy Spirit. 

Now many of you out there can point out as many bible texts to say that we have received the Holy Spirit but I would like to bring a few texts together that support that we have not received the Holy Spirit thus we are yet to be confirmed as Christian. Now, some of you may disagree with me and I accept your opinion but please consider my views and the text that support the views. 

First of all, we must believe that Jesus Christ is our savior who saved us from our sins in our heart ( and they are much text that supports this). After believing in Jesus Christ, one must be baptized in water in the name of Jesus Christ ( also many text support this which I am not putting it up). Finally, one must receive the Holy Spirit to be called a full Christian ( John 3: 5-8).

 Jesus promised his disciples that he will send to them a helper which is the Holy Spirit (John 14: 16-17) and the people of the world can not receive it, know, and see. The disciples only will receive the Holy Spirit.

Before Jesus went up to heaven he asked his disciples to go to Jerusalem and stay there and they must not go out unless they receive Holy Spirit that he will send to them  (Luke 24: 49). This means after they receive the Holy Spirit they will go out otherwise they will not. 

Jesus sends to them the Holy Spirit (act 33: 3; act 1; 1-4 and act 2_ 1-4). 

From Jerusalem, the apostles heard that some of the people in Samaria believed in Jesus Christ so they sent Peter and John which means the apostles had already received the Holy Spirit thus they went out leaving Jerusalem, (Acts 8: 14).

Peter and John went out and prayed for the Samaritan believers to receive the Holy Spirit. This means that when Holy Spirit first came down the believers in Samaria did not receive the Holy Spirit. 

In verse 16 it says; "These people had been baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus, but the Holy Spirit had not yet come down on any of them. This is why Peter and John prayed." this means that they heard the good news, they believed in Jesus Christ and they baptized in water but they did not receive the Holy Spirit when the holy spirit came down. 

Acts 8 verse 16 gives the full meaning of John 14 verses 16 to 17 which says people of the world will not know, see and receive the Holy Spirit but only the apostles will. verse 17 says only when the apostles prayed for them (people) did they receive the Holy Spirit. 

Paul did the same things in Ephesus as Peter and John. Paul asks the people that did they receive the Holy Spirit when they believe. The people replied and said they have not heard of the Holy Spirit. Then he asked them what baptism did they receive. They replied to Paul and said, John's baptism, which is the water baptism. This means that they had not received the Holy Spirit when the people heard the good news, believe in Jesus Christ, and Baptize in water. Only when the time the apostles prayed for the people they have received the Holy Spirit.

As indicated in the above scripture, the apostles were given the work of praying for the people so that they could receive the Holy Spirit as the Holy Spirit was only given to the Apostles and not everyone, (John 14: 16-17). However, when persecution spread (Acts 11: 19), most of the apostles have been killed, (acts 7: 57-60; Acts 8: 1-3).

In Antioch, people were arguing with the apostles ( acts 15: 1-18) and they decided to wrote letters, Acts 15: 19: "19 “So I think we should not make things hard for those who have turned to God from among the non-Jewish people. 20 Instead, we should send a letter telling them only the things they should not do:.". Paul, Peter, John, and other apostle hide and begin to write the letter which we now see in the Bible the letters they wrote which makes up the news testament. 

We do know the apostles died, however, the Good news spread to the world but the work of the Holy Spirit the apostles carry out did not spread.

Now in my opinion today, people in the world who heard the Good news, believe in Jesus Christ, and were baptized in water did not receive the Holy Spirit to fully become Christians and enter the Kingdome of God, (John 3: 5-8). therefore, some still ask questions about Holy Spirit and about becoming Christians. 

In my opinion, I believe that the work of the Holy Spirit will begin in the last days. However, before I go ahead and support my view with bible texts, I would like to receive your opinion.

Before you give your opinion, you may try to give many explaining to convince me or the audience that we have received the Holy Spirit despite the above text and views that I have laid out, but I have gone through all the bible text that you will provide from Geneses to Revelation over and over. I have also used many Christian blogs and google searches to search individual words such as Christina and Holy Spirit over and over and I understanding them. You may give your best explanation from many different angles but I have gone through all of them and I refer to the above views that I have provided.

 Thank you. 

Pay close attention to Jesus is saying in John 20: 21Then said Jesus to them again, Peace be unto you: as my Father hath sent me, even so send I you. 22 And when he had said this, he breathed on them, and saith unto them, Receive ye the Holy Ghost: 23 whose soever sins ye remit, they are remitted unto them; and whose soever sins ye retain, they are retained. So now let’s get an example of how to do this Sisters and Brothers.

"Therefore let all the house of Israel know assuredly, that God hath made that same Jesus, whom ye have crucified, both Lord and Christ. Now when they heard this, they were pricked in their heart, and said unto Peter and to the rest of the apostles, men and brethren, what shall we do? Then Peter said unto them, "repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost." (Acts 2:38). 

If we truly love God, then we will obey "Every word" that proceeds out of his mouth (Matthew 4:4). Baptism is one of those words. In order to be baptized, certain events must take place: You must give up a lifestyle where sin has dominion, (ruler ship) over you. Sin according to 1 John 3:4, Whosoever committeth sin transgresseth also the law: for sin is the transgression (breaking) of the law. You must be taught "The Word", before you can adhere to God's commandments (judgments\statues). These laws are found in the Holy Bible; beginning with Genesis and ending with Revelation. You must believe what the bible says and finally, you must confess that Jesus is Lord. Once this has been accomplished, you are qualified to be baptized in the name of Jesus. 

"And it came to pass, that, while Apollo was at Corinth, Paul having passed through the upper coasts came to Ephesus: and finding certain disciples, he said unto them, Have ye received the Holy ghost since ye believed? And they said unto him, "We have not so much as heard whether there be any Holy Ghost.” And he said unto them, "unto what then were ye baptized?" And they said unto John's baptism. 

Then Paul said, “John verily baptized with the baptism of repentance, saying unto the people, that they should believe on him who should come after him, that is, Jesus Christ.” When they heard this, they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. When Paul had laid hands upon them, the Holy Ghost came on them; and they spake with tongues, and prophesied. And all the men were about twelve." (Acts 19:1-7). 

Notice Paul had laid hand upon them, and then the Holy Ghost came on them. Meaning a prayer should be said right after the baptism.

9 hours ago, Arrabon said:

@Bro.Tan

I totally agree with you, but would like to add that in his conversation with Jesus, the young man was being "very carnally proud" of "his OWN accomplishments", without even realizing his sin, thinking to himself and saying to Jesus, "I am almost perfect" in my own abilities, and "I am so perfect, could anything possibly make me more perfect," without giving any glory to God for what he had accomplished.

The young man didn't think so, but Jesus, in His most loving way, made all the young mans accomplishments to be as nothing, when He got to the heart of the matter, the young man's pride, also in what he owned, and had accomplished gathering it all on his own abilities, and not able to give it up, Jesus sent him on his way, with plenty to consider to maybe change his mind, as He does us all through His word.

The young man was blind to his own sin of "PRIDE", and Jesus made an attempt to help the young man see it.

A great example for us, should I say most of us including me, that have that old "sin of pride" raise it's ugly head in our own lives periodically, and the word of God reminds us just as Jesus did the young man, to reign in our pride that can destroy us, if we start to feed it.

Arrabon

And it's alway good to check with God on a daily basis in prayer to make sure are election is called, as we walk this walk in truth and righteousness.  Wherefore the rather, brethren, give diligence to make your calling and election sure: for if ye do these things, ye shall never fall: for so an entrance shall be ministered unto you abundantly into the everlasting kingdom of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. (2 Peter 1: 10, 11)

On 7/1/2021 at 11:48 AM, Arrabon said:

I was just reading one of those commentaries online about these people all over the world who have  a net worth of up to 760 million dollars.

My opinions are still out. Kind of a rock and hard-spot for me right now. Not sure what to think as I haven't looked into it much.

Maybe some of your opinions could help me.

God bless you all.

Arrabon

Let take a look at a situation Jesus dealt with concerning money and the commandments in Matthew 19: 16 And, behold, one came and said unto him, Good Master, what good thing shall I do, that I may have eternal life? 17 And he said unto him, Why callest thou me good? there is none good but one, that is, God: but if thou wilt enter into life, keep the commandments. 18 He saith unto him, Which? Jesus said, Thou shalt do no murder, Thou shalt not commit adultery, Thou shalt not steal, Thou shalt not bear false witness, 19 Honour thy father and thy mother: and, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.  

This includes the Sabbath day on the seventh day of the week (Saturday).

This also include,Thou shalt have no other gods before me.   

Thou shalt not make unto thee any graven image, or any likeness of any thing that is in heaven above, or that is in the earth beneath, or that is in the water under the earth:

Thou shalt not bow down thyself to them, nor serve them: for I the Lord thy God am a jealous God, visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children unto the third and fourth generation of them that hate me; And shewing mercy unto thousands of them that love me, and keep my commandments.

Thou shalt not take the name of the Lord thy God in vain; for the Lord will not hold him guiltless that taketh his name in vain. 

Remember the sabbath day, to keep it holy. (Exodus 20:3-8) 

20 The young man saith unto him, All these things have I kept from my youth up: what lack I yet?

Notice the young man says "All these things have I kept from my youth up: what lack I yet?"  This is where the story gets interesting, because if you read the full story which we have to do, to get full understanding. We will see that the commandments Jesus mention wasn't the young man problem, it was something else. 

21 Jesus said unto him, If thou wilt be perfect, go and sell that thou hast, and give to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come and follow me. 22 But when the young man heard that saying, he went away sorrowful: for he had great possessions. 

So Jesus says if thou be perfect, that means the young was really close to being perfect, but the young had great riches that he couldn't let go, and that goes with what Jesus says in Matthew (22:37) Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind. (38) This is the first and great commandment. 

This was very hard for the young man to do. So let's recap the story a little, the young man kept the commandments from his youth up, all most perfect, except one thing Jesus ask him to do, and that's sell all his possession and come follow him. 

So let's continue in Matthew 19: 23 Then said Jesus unto his disciples, Verily I say unto you, That a rich man shall hardly enter into the kingdom of heaven. 24 And again I say unto you, It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle, than for a rich man to enter into the kingdom of God. 25 When his disciples heard it, they were exceedingly amazed, saying, Who then can be saved? 26 But Jesus beheld them, and said unto them, With men this is impossible; but with God all things are possible.

So the Unleavened Bread we want to eat is that spiritual bread that is from Christ. Jesus says in John 6: 32 Then Jesus said unto them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Moses gave you not that bread from heaven; but my Father giveth you the true bread from heaven. 33 For the bread of God is he which cometh down from heaven, and giveth life unto the world. 34 Then said they unto him, Lord, evermore give us this bread. 35 And Jesus said unto them, I am the bread of life: he that cometh to me shall never hunger; and he that believeth on me shall never thirst. 

I know many people believe on the name of Jesus, but you have to come to Jesus in faith and do his will as Jesus did the will of the father. One of the first things Jesus said was to repent. 

Every man therefore that hath heard, and hath learned of the Father, cometh unto me. 46 Not that any man hath seen the Father, save he which is of God, he hath seen the Father. 47 Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that believeth on me hath everlasting life. 48 I am that bread of life. 49 Your fathers did eat manna in the wilderness, and are dead. 50 This is the bread which cometh down from heaven, that a man may eat thereof, and not die. 51 I am the living bread which came down from heaven: if any man eat of this bread, he shall live for ever: and the bread that I will give is my flesh, which I will give for the life of the world. 

Eating off this bread which is Jesus is a spiritual meal brothers and sisters. This is a daily meal we must eat consistently.  Because learning about the living God is a life long journey.  Let’s take a look at what else Jesus says in verse 53 Then Jesus said unto them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Except ye eat the flesh of the Son of man, and drink his blood, ye have no life in you. 54 Whoso eateth my flesh, and drinketh my blood, hath eternal life; and I will raise him up at the last day. 55 For my flesh is meat indeed, and my blood is drink indeed. 56 He that eateth my flesh, and drinketh my blood, dwelleth in me, and I in him. 57 As the living Father hath sent me, and I live by the Father: so he that eateth me, even he shall live by me. 63 It is the spirit that quickeneth; the flesh profiteth nothing: the words that I speak unto you, they are spirit, and they are life. 

Jesus says the words he speak to us, is spirit and they are life. This is why it’s important to become a doer of the word and not just a hearer only. So we understand that drinking the blood of Jesus is the Passover and after the Passover is the Feast of Unleavened Bread, 4 These are the feasts of the LORD, even holy convocations, which ye shall proclaim in their seasons. 5 In the fourteenth day of the first month at even is the LORD's passover. 6 And on the fifteenth day of the same month is the feast of unleavened bread unto the LORD: seven days ye must eat unleavened bread. 7 In the first day ye shall have an holy convocation: ye shall do no servile work therein. 8 But ye shall offer an offering made by fire unto the LORD seven days: in the seventh day is an holy convocation: ye shall do no servile work therein. ( Leviticus 23: 4-8)  Let’s take a look at this time is Jesus days. 

Let’s go into Matthew 27: 17 Now the first day of the feast of unleavened bread the disciples came to Jesus, saying unto him, Where wilt thou that we prepare for thee to eat the passover? 18 And he said, Go into the city to such a man, and say unto him, The Master saith, My time is at hand; I will keep the passover at thy house with my disciples. 26 And as they were eating, Jesus took bread, and blessed it, and brake it, and gave it to the disciples, and said, Take, eat; this is my body. 27 And he took the cup, and gave thanks, and gave it to them, saying, Drink ye all of it; 28 for this is my blood of the new testament, which is shed for many for the remission of sins. 

So Jesus died on the Passover because he is the Passover. Now, after the Passover come a High Sabbath Day, which is the feast of unleavened Bread. Let’s go to John 19: 31 The Jews therefore, because it was the preparation, that the bodies should not remain upon the cross on the sabbath day, (for that sabbath day was an high day,) besought Pilate that their legs might be broken, and that they might be taken away.

So we can see how all this ties together and how important it is to eat Unleavened Bread, that spiritual Bread that came from heaven. Now it’s good to eat physical clean Bread in general, but let’s take a look a something Jesus says in Matthew 4:  4 But he answered and said, It is written, Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God. 

17 hours ago, Willa said:

the Bible teaches it is the other way around.  He gives us the power of the Holy Spirit, the life of Christ within us, so that we are able to walk in obedience to Him. It is Christ in Me that is able to walk the walk.

Can you show me that in the Bible? I know Jesus says in John 14: 25 These things have I spoken unto you, being yet present with you. 26 But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you. 

17 hours ago, appy said:

 

If someone is erring, the Holy Spirit will immediately let them know. This is why Paul said to “let God tell a person, whether they are doing right or wrong”.

I think we have said as much as we are going to say on the subject.  There is enough in the thread to let others make their own decisions in this regard. 

Romans 14:4 (LB)
They are God’s servants, not yours. They are responsible to him, not to you. Let him tell them whether they are right or wrong. And God is able to make them do as they should.

1 Thessalonians 4:11
and to make it your ambition to lead a quiet life: You should mind your own business and work with your hands, just as we told you,

 

You would have to show me that the Holy Spirit Immediately to that in the Bible.

But Paul says in 1 Corinthians 6: 1 Dare any of you, having a matter against another, go to law before the unjust, and not before the saints? 2 Do ye not know that the saints shall judge the world? and if the world shall be judged by you, are ye unworthy to judge the smallest matters? 3 Know ye not that we shall judge angels? how much more things that pertain to this life?

18 hours ago, appy said:

Any teaching becomes legalistic and displays itself as pride, and self-righteousness when we as individuals require and/ or demand others emulate as we do. Legalism concentrates on, and demands external conformity. And secretly judges others who do not do as it does. Legalism is not content to live as it sees fit, and leave others alone.

It desires to bring everyone under its system of bondage. The Apostle Paul taught that legalism is to be avoided. We are saved by God's grace and not by a system of Bondage.  We are saved by grace alone, so no man may boast in his righteousness.

Romans 14:4 (LB)
They are God’s servants, not yours. They are responsible to him, not to you. Let him tell them whether they are right or wrong. And God is able to make them do as they should.

 

 

Jesus brought grace when he came in the flesh, but an example of grace was in the days of Noah. But Noah found grace in the eyes of the LORD. (Genesis 6:8), And Noah and his family was saved. Now Paul said in (Rom. 3:23-25) (v.23) For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God. (v.24) Being justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus: (v.25) Whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation through faith in his blood, to declare his righteousness for the remission of sins that are past, through the forbearance of God.

So the bible tells you to repent and be baptized in the name of Jesus for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost." (Acts 2 :36-38). And by doing so you come up under his precious blood and then you are saved from your sins that are past, not present or future sins but for sins that are past. We were all locked under death by Adam’s sin, even the second death. But when Jesus became (he was God in the beginning) man and died for the sins of the world, he gave us access back to the tree of life (himself) which Adam had caused us to lose.

That’s what grace is, our free gift our access back to the tree of life. So by coming under the blood of Jesus you are saved from your past sins. And if you are saved now, it is on a day to day basis. Because for all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God (Romans 23:3), and if you continue to live you will sin again. It is the willful sinning that you need to put in check. For if we sin wilfully after that we have received the knowledge of the truth, there remaineth no more sacrifice for sins, but a certain fearful looking for of judgment and fiery indignation, which shall devour the adversaries. (Hebrew 10: 26, 27)