TEACHING

How Then Shall We Live Today

Sun, 15 Feb 2026 21:15:16 GMT

How Then Shall We Live Today?

Bible sales are booming and at an all-time high because people are looking for meaning in life.

Why Does God Allow Bad Things to Happen to Good People?

As hard as it is to acknowledge, we must remember that there are no good people in the absolute sense of the word.

All of us are tainted by and infected with sin (Ecclesiastes 7:20, Romans 3:23, 1 John 1:8). As Jesus said, no one is good except God alone. All of us feel the effects of sin in one way or another. Sometimes it is our own personal sin, and other times it is the sin of others. We live in a

fallen world, and we expect the effects of the fall. One of those effects is injustice and seemingly senseless suffering.

The Bible Clearly Identifies This Question and Gives Answers in 3 Ways:

1. The Problem

2. The Promise

3. The Provision

I call this God’s University of Adversity. If we obey this teaching, we can graduate with a PHD.

“Behold, I will do something new, now it will spring forth; will you not be aware of it? I will even make a roadway in the wilderness, rivers in

the desert.”

– Isaiah 43:19

Without God, there are no roads in the wilderness. Without God there are no rivers in the desert.

The Problem

Why do we have problems and where do they come from?

1. Problems, for mankind, began with the disobedience of Adam and Eve in the garden and it is called SIN (Genesis 2).

2. God gave Adam and Eve five commands to follow:

• Be Fruitful (Genesis 1:28)

• Replenish (Genesis 1:28)

• Exercise a Dominion (Genesis 1:28,

Genesis 2:15)

• Refrain from eating the fruit from the Tree

of Good and Evil (Genesis 2:17)

• Multiply (Genesis 1:28)

3. When Adam and Eve sinned, because God is a HOLY, SOVEREIGN, OMNIPRESENT GOD - which means He, as the Creator, has the right to do anything—He chose what He did because He cannot tolerate sin.

4. The sin of Adam and Eve introduced three major types of disobedience, and mankind is involved in these sins today:

• Lust of the flesh

• Lust of the eyes

• Pride of life (Genesis 3:6,

1 John 2:15-17)

Quotes on Trials and Tribulations

“Trials teach us who we are. They dig up the soil

and let us see what we are made of.”

– Charles Spurgeon

“True faith is not going to get you out of a hard

place, but to change your heart out of a hard

place.”

– David Wilkinson

“The Bible was not given for our information but

for our transformation.”

– Dwight L. Moody

“God does not expect the impossible from us.

God wants us to expect the impossible from

Him.”

– Dwight L. Moody

“We all face storms in life. Some are more

difficult than others, but we all go through trials

and tribulations. That is why God gives us the

gift of faith.”

– Joyce Meyer

The Promise

The Vital Importance of a Biblical Worldview:

“A world view is the most important thing that

we know about a man or a woman.”

– Richard Weaver

“A Biblical world view approach to life and

learning has never been more needed than

in today’s Pluralistic/Postmodern culture.

Christians today face hostility to their faith from

one side and apathy from anything of importance

on the other side. Sadly, the casualties are high.”

– Chuck Edwards

Part of God’s promise is that in the world today we will have trials and tribulations (John 16:33, 2 Timothy 3:12, John 15:20,

Psalms 34:17-19).

The Provision

Very important. The only way a person can experience the provision of God is to have a personal relationship

with God. This opportunity is simply to accept Jesus Christ as your personal Savior for the forgiveness of sins and life everlasting (John 3:14-21).

God’s Way of Provision for Handling a Problem

James 1:2-8: This is a life-changing provision experience. Trust me, I know. This provision includes trials of all kinds, whether it be:

Financial
Business
Health
Marriage
Family
Personal

Verse 1: James 1:2-8: Strong Recommendation – Read out loud as often as necessary as a prayer to the Lord.

How to Profit From Trials or How Shall We Then Live?

Verse 2: COUNT (to lead the way/to have rule over/to be chief)

The Jewish-culture believer believed that the more trials you have the closer you are to God. Paul, in

2 Timothy 3:12, teaches that trials are part of a godly life.

JOY (Calm delight/cheerfulness/exceeding gladness)

The joy with which we endure trials in the present is a signal of hope for future relief.

FALL INTO (to fall into something that surrounds you/to light upon you)

Like the story of the Good Samaritan, you may not even have caused the trial. Read the Good Samaritan story

(Luke 10:25-37). Remember, Jesus taught that the two greatest commandments were:

1. To love God with all of your heart/soul/mind. Remember your body is the Temple of the Holy Spirit who lives within you

(1 Corinthians 3:16-17, 6:18-20).

2. To love (agape) others as you love yourself.

DIVERS (various in character)

TEMPTATIONS (adversity, trials with a beneficial purpose and effect)

The Lord knows how to deliver the godly out of trials and temptation (2 Peter 2:7-9). The Lord knows (which means to understand/divine knowledge, see Matthew 6:8).

Verse 3: KNOWING THIS (to understand/to realize)

THE TRYING OF YOURSELF (trying means to test)

What is faith? “Faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen” (Hebrews 11:1).

How important is faith? “Without faith it is impossible (impotent) to please God but He rewards those who

diligently seek Him” (Hebrews 11:6). Faith is a gift that God gives us, but we have to use it to make it grow (Romans 12:3).

PATIENCE (abiding under)

Patience perfects the Christian character, so let patience have her perfect work. Patience is the ability to persevere through increasing levels of trials.

Verse 4: PERFECT WORK

“But let endurance and steadfastness and

patience have full play, and do a thorough work,

so that you may be perfectly and fully developed

lacking in nothing.”

– The Amplified Bible

WANTING NOTHING – Jesus promised in Matthew 6:24-34 where He tells us to put God’s Kingdom first and all will be given to us.

“Worry is a sin and can produce anxiety/fear/

disease and even mental illness.”

– The Dake Annotated Reference Bible

“What happens when you worry? Your mind and

body go into overdrive as you constantly focus

on WHAT MIGHT HAPPEN.”

– Web MD

Verse 5: WISDOM/IF

There are about 1600 “ifs” in the Bible and the word usually means that someone has to make a decision. God asked King Solomon what he wanted, and Solomon’s answer was found in 1 Kings 3:3-15: “ Lord, give your servant an understanding mind .”

God asks us the same question with a promise and instructions:

• We are to ask (which means call up or to do something).

• Giveth: Giveth is a present participle which means continual or repeated action with no indication of timing. In other words, it’s up to

God.

• Liberally (unconditional supply)

Verse 6: FAITH

Faith is our choice because if we do not ask in faith we are like a wave in the sea.

“Ask” is a present imperative which means a command to do something, including continuous or repeated action. Matthew 7:7-8 tells us to keep on asking, keep on seeking and keep on knocking.

Verse 7: If we do not follow the principles of verses 2-6, we will receive nothing from the Lord. WHY?

Verse 8: Because we are double-minded (two-spirited), vacillating in our original purpose, and we are unstable (restless

in our ways) (James 4:1-10). Loving the world means hating God.

Here is a checklist of qualities in your life that will assist you in assessing whether you are obeying and trusting in the Lord, especially through trials:

Positive Negative

Courage Pride

Boldness Arrogance

Patience Self-centeredness

Steadfastness Self-righteousness

Perseverance Temper

Humility Controlling Spirit

Self-control Know-it-all

A Caring Heart Discouragement

Compassion Gossip

Increased Faith Blaming Others/Not Forgiving

When you are hanging by a thread, make sure it is the hem of His garment.

Remember, as the Temple of God, the Lord calls you to such things as:

• A Holy Priesthood

• A Chosen Generation

• A Holy Nation

• A Peculiar People (the meaning of peculiar is acquisition or possession)

Our response to this is to PRAISE THE LORD (1 Peter 2:1-11).

The Good Samaritan Story (Luke 10:25-37)

In Luke 10, a lawyer asked Jesus a question and He answered the question with a question (v. 26). Verses 27-29 tell us the story of a man travelling from Jerusalem to Jericho. This pathway of about 18 miles was known as “the bloody way.” Jericho was home to about 12,000

priests and was a beautiful city filled with palm trees. Jesus answers the question with a parable (verses 30-37).

The Samaritans were a blend of all kinds of mixed races and the Jewish people of the day had very little respect for them.

When the man fell amongst thieves three types of people passed by:

A priest, whose main occupation was to offer sacrifices, and he had no compassion for the wounded man.

2. A Levite: Levites were descendants of Levi. They kept a distinct separation from the other eleven tribes, so he obviously had little

compassion.

3. The Good Samaritan: The Good Samaritan shows us eight acts of mercy and compassion that we should show to others even if we disagree with them. Eight is a number of new beginnings in the Bible:

1. Had compassion

2. Bound up his wounds

3. Poured in oil

4. Poured in wine

5. Set him on his own beast

6. Brought him to an inn

7. Took care of him

8. Offered to pay for his care if anything more was needed

Jesus then sums up the parable by saying, “Go and do (likewise).” This is known as a present imperative which means a continuous or repeated action. As the Temple of God, this is how Jesus Christ instructed us to live.

This is Chapter 3 of the book Your Body is God's Temple, which you can buy here.

Isaiah Chapter 53 The Atoning Suffering And Victory Of The Messiah

Fri, 16 Jan 2026 04:13:06 GMT

Many People Believe This is the Most Important Chapter of the Old Testament

ISAIAH – CHAPTER 53

VERSE 1

The report itself, Peter confirms that God has spoken through the power of the Holy Spirit; I Peter 1:10-12 and Hebrews 1:1-4

“arm of the Lord” refers to the awesome and victorious power revealed through Jesus Christ.; def. ‘revealed’ = to uncover

VERSE 2

A tender plant growing up in dry ground would be withered.

So was Jesus Christ to be a suffering servant and rejected by man. After Christ was born as an infant from a virgin (Matt. 1:18-25) which was prophesied in Gen. 3:15,16

30 fold sufferings of Jesus Christ for the Entire Human Race

Isaiah 53

In the end Jesus Christ will deal prudently; have good success; make to understand and He will be exalted and extolled (able to; armour; forgive, magnify) very high Isaiah 52:13

His visage (appearance) was so marred, more than any other man. 52::14

2. His form (figure or appearance) was again so marred more than any other man (see notes on Crucifixion)

3. Who will believe (support) our report (doctrine – announcement) v. 1 the ‘arm of the Lord’ refers to His victorious power

4. Suffered human limitations; v. 2

5. Had no form or beauty; v. 2

6. Had no comeliness (glory) v. 2

7. Man had no desire for him; v. 2 a tender plant growing in dry ground would be withered and so Jesus Christ, the suffering servant would be rejected by many.

8. He was despised (contempt - scorned) of man; v. 3

9. He was rejected (destitute – frail) v. 3

10. Suffered many sorrows (anguish – affliction – grief – pain ) v. 3

11. He was acquainted with grief (sickness) v..3

12. Men hid their faces from him; v. 3

13. He was despised scorned; v. 3

14. We esteemed (to regard – to value) not; v. 3

15. He bore (to carry away – to pardon) our griefs (sickness – anxiety – disease – calamity) v. 4

16. He carried (burdened – to bear our sorrows) anguish – affliction – grief – pain; v. 4

17. Yet we esteemed (to regard) stricken (to punish); to strike – to lay hand upon; smitten (to strike – to wound) of God; v. 4

18. People did not recognize that Jesus Christ suffered for others and was rejected as one smitten by God for his own sins. But he was wounded (to slay) for our transgressions (revolt – sin) v. 5

19. He was bruised (to crumble – to humble – to oppress) v. 5

20. For our iniquities (sin) v. 5

21. Jesus quoted v. 4 – 6 in Matthew 8:16,17; I Peter 2:23-27

22. Chastisement (correction – rebuke) for our peace (shalom – health – prosperity – happy) was upon Christ; v. 5

23. By His stripes (blueness – wound – black and blue)

24. Jesus was flogged; Matt. 25:26; Mark 15:15 Flogging was usually 39 times, one short of 40, the number of judgment. “Healed” – to cure – physician; to make whole – to make healthful. The word, “healed” appears over 60 times and although most of the time it is linked to physician healing, I also believe it can be emotional and spiritual as well.

Why? Go back to the Word PEACE – Shalom. V. 5

25. Sheep – the dumbest land most easily led of all animals; “gone astray” (to deceive – to seduce – to wander) “iniquity” (fault – punishment – evil – moral failure) v. ll6

26. Though not suffering for His own sins.; because Christ as was sinless, suffered willingly and silently; Philip used this passage with the Ethiopian in Acts 8:31-35; as did Peter in I Peter 2:23-25. However, Jesus was “oppressed” – to harass, as a tax collector – to tyrannize; “afflicted” – brow beating – to depress – deal hardly with; v. 7 Remember, Jesus Christ as God but also he was man.

27. Jesus was taken from prison (constraint – barren – oppression) “judgment” (penalty, crime, unworthy, a sentence, litigation) there are two coming judgments: the Beam judgment for believers – rewards – five crowns; Romans 14:10 and The Great White Throne Judgment – eternal damnation for unbelievers; Rev. 20:11 Jesus was afflicted by men. Justice was taken from Him. He lived among wicked men and He was violently taken away by men. V. 8

28. His grave was assigned with wicked men, yet He was with a rich man in His death, because He had done no violence, nor was there any deceit in His mouth. On account of his suffering he was deemed to be a sinner (v. 4). Jesus could have been buried with the other 2 criminals with him but instead received an honorable burial through the donated tomb of rich Joseph of Arimathea (Matt. 27:57-60). Jesus was innocent of all charges against Him (I Peter 2:22) v. 9

29. But the Lord was pleased to crush Him, putting Him to grief; if He would render Himself as a guilt offering, He will see His offspring, He will prolong His days and the good pleasure of the Lord will prosper in His hand. Matt. 26:39 makes it clear that it was the Fathers will to see His Son be crucified. The Father did this out of love for the rest of the world as proclaimed in John 3:16. “ For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotton Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish, but have Eternal Life”

Our Messiah became our “Guilt Offering” when He became our sacrificial Passover Lamb also known as the Lamb of God. How does someone have prolonged days after death and what is meant by his offspring? Through a resurrection after death providing Eternal life. Hebrews 1:13 teach that Psalm 110:1 is speaking directly about the position of the Messiah after His death which is at the right hand of God. His offspring are His children. (Romans 8:16) Anyone who exercises genuine saving faith becomes a Child of God at the moment of belief. Psalm 16 also teaches about Messiah’s resurrection. V. 10

30. As a result of the anguish of His soul, He will see it and be satisfied; by His knowledge the Righteous One, My Servant, will justify the many, as He will bear their iniquities. He will be compensated for the travail of his soul by the abundant fulfillment of His wishes, both material and spiritual. The Father’s satisfaction with the quality of His Son the Messiah as the sin offering of the world is found in I John 2:2. The messiah has the knowledge to know what needed to be done to solve the sin problem once and for all. Romans 5:19 and II Cor. 5:21 tech about how one sacrifice can justify many people.

31. Therefore, l will allot Him a portion with the great, and He will divide the booty with the strong; because He poured out Himself to death, and was numbered with the transgressors; yet He Himself bore the sin of many and interceded for the transgressors. V. 11

Therefore, meaning for his unmerited suffering, for sacrificing himself on behalf of others and for interceding in favor of His tormentors. A position is a reward (6) by dividing the spoils or booty, Isaiah is saying that the Suffering Servant will be victorious over his enemies in the end (4). Jesus will reign during the Millennial Kingdom and enjoy an environment where He rules as King of Kings with no satanic influence to be found on earth (2). Jesus was crucified between two criminals bringing fulfillment in Luke 22:37 for being numbered with the transgressors (2). This verse al finds fulfillment in Mark 15:17, 30. Our Messiah is also our High Priest and as such He makes intercession before the Father for our transgressions. Started here on earth ( Luke 23:34) it continues now in Heaven Hebrews 7:25 and 9:24)

POWERFUL CONCLUSION

Jesus Christ was tempted in every way and is now our very compassionate High Priest; Heb. 4:14 – 16

2. The Holy Spirit makes intercession for us; Romans 8:26,27

3. Jesus Christ also makes intercession for us to the Father; Romans 8:31-37; Hebrews 7:20-28. This is the greatness of our High Priest.

AMAZING TRUTHS

AFTER THE FRIST Passover, God lead about 2 million people out of Egypt with silver, gold and not one person who was sick; Ps. 105:37-45

2. We are reminded about the vital importance of preparing for Holy Communion; John 19:14

3. Israel had 4 days to inspect the Lamb; Ex. 12

4. Paul reminds us in I Cor. 11:23-26 that as often as we observe Communion, we do remember what Jesus Christ has done for us. Consider daily or weekly Communion.

Remember the promise in Isaiah 53, “the chastisement of peace was upon Him – peace – prosperity – well – health – completeness – absence of strife – harmony – fulfillment in one’s undertakings – a blessing.

Shalom is the result of God’s activity in covenant in about 2/3 of times used; shalom describes the state of fulfillment which is the result of God’s presence.

Shalom only has its source in Jesus Christ. Jesus Himself promises us His peace, prosperity – quietness; Rest – harmonized relationships between God and man. John 14:27. This peace is promised in every book of the New Testament except for I John.

Prayerfully observing Communion the way Paul presents it in

I Corinthians 11:27-34.

A Lovely Comment From a Friend On This Study

" Barry, I love Isaiah 53, so thank you for this.

My Dad read the Bible to us every morning after breakfast, then we all got down on our knees at our chair and he prayed. But every Sunday morning he would read about the crucifixion of Christ, because we ‘remembered this’ as He asked us to and partook of the bread & wine every Sunday at church. So it was Dad’s way of preparing our hearts. So he would either read it from one of the gospels or Psalm 22 or Isaiah 53.

I once memorized Psalm 53 for Sunday School. I’m still pretty good with the first 6 or 7 verses but not the rest. Anyhow, I appreciate your take on it, Barry. What a treasure trove of scripture it is, and I value it very much! Thank you !"

Your Body is God's Temple Part 1

Sun, 30 Nov 2025 18:37:22 GMT

Your Body is God's Temple Part 1 - This is the least understood subject in the Bible - Pastor Kevin J Connor

Barry Borthistle kicks off this powerful series diving into the truth that Your Body is God's Temple, the least understood subject in the Bible, with the help of his wife Ruth.

Website: https://www.solomonsporchteaching.com/

Your Body is God's Temple Part 2

Wed, 12 Nov 2025 16:00:32 GMT

Hezekiah, Prayer and Rebuilding the Temple

Barry, with the help of his wife Ruth, shares some truths about the story of King Hezekiah and the power of prayer.

Your Body is God's Temple Part 3

Sun, 02 Nov 2025 13:00:02 GMT

Your Body Was Created To Be God's Temple

The Vital Importance of Reading And Applying God's Word As His Temple

Your Body is God's Temple Part 4

Sat, 01 Nov 2025 13:00:00 GMT

How Do You Live Your Life as God's Temple?

In Part 4 of this life-changing series, Barry and Ruth Borthistle share truths from the Bible.

Your Body is God's Temple Part 5

Fri, 31 Oct 2025 15:45:00 GMT

GOD PROMISES TO HEAL OUR LAND

Can God heal our land? Barry and Ruth Borthistle have good news for you: He can....IF we do it His way. This episode explores the reassuring truth that God can bring healing to our land in these difficult times, as we see in the example of King Hezekiah in the Bible. You'll also learn about the biblical foundations of the United States AND Canada.

Your Body is God's Temple Part 6

Thu, 30 Oct 2025 22:33:47 GMT

Your Body is God's Temple Part 6

What would it take for God to heal and bless our land? Barry and Ruth Borthistle Borthistle explore this question more deeply and find answers in the Bible. God will heal our land IF:

We show humility.
We pray.
We repent.
We seek God,
We turn from sin.

For more go to: www.solomonsporchteaching.com/god-s-promises (halfway down the page, you'll find the link to Chris Maynard's video!)

www.solomonsporchteaching.com

Your Body is God's Temple Part 7: Overcome Fear Through God's Wisdom

Wed, 29 Oct 2025 15:00:19 GMT

Part 7 of This Series: Overcome Fear Through God's Wisdom

Barry Borthistle, along with his wife Ruth, continues his inspired teaching from 1st Corinthians 3:16-17: Your Body is God's Temple. Do you suffer from anxiety? This 20-minute episode will encourage you with hope from God's Word. For more, download your free 40-page prayer manual here: www.solomonsporchteaching.com/prayerguide

Your Body is God's Temple Part 8: The Most Amazing Prayer You've Ever Heard: You Can Trust Him

Tue, 28 Oct 2025 21:07:41 GMT

Your Body is God's Temple Part 8 - The Most Amazing Prayer You've Ever Heard: "You Can Trust Him"

In Part 8 of Your Body Is God’s Temple, Barry and Ruth unpack the first of the 14 biblical mysteries—the Kingdom of Heaven as God’s government operating on earth through us—and the spiritual authority believers carry as God’s living temple, and share a powerful prayer entitled "You Can Trust Him." The episode culminates in a powerful reflection on trust, reminding listeners that true transformation comes from anchoring their lives, prayers, and worldview in the unchanging authority and faithfulness of Jesus Christ.

WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO BE THE APPLE OF GOD'S EYE?

Mon, 11 Aug 2025 02:41:51 GMT

God only called 2 things the Apple which means Pupil of his Eye. Do you know what they are ?

www.solomonsporchteaching.com

God only chose to name TWO things to be the apple of His eye:

1. God’s Holy Word – Proverbs 7:1-4

2. Israel – Deut. 32:10; Psalms 17:8

‘Apple’ in Hebrew means: pupil.

The Cleveland Clinic describes the function of the eye: What does the pupil do? Your pupil lets light into your eye as the muscles of your iris change its shape. The lens in your eye focuses light that passes through your pupil. Light then goes to the back of your eye and hits your retina.

Your retina turns light into electrical signals...Your brain receives these signals and turns them into images. This is how you’re able to see.

Two muscles in your iris control how your pupil opens and closes. The iris dilator muscle opens your pupil from the inside out. It sort of looks like a sun with rays extending out form the middle. The iris sphincter is a circular muscle that controls closing your pupil.

Your pupils are important parts of your vision system. Pupil issues can suggest certain diseases. It’s good to do what you can to keep yourself and your eyes healthy.

What is the pupil of the eye?

The pupil of your eye is the black hole in the middle of your iris. The pupil get bigger or smaller in response to changes in light. Muscles in the iris control the size of the pupil. Your iris is the colored part of your eye. Muscles in your iris control how big the pupil is. Usually, this happens as a result of how much light is available which makes the pupil an important part of your vision system.

Example: when driving your car, the pupil permits where you go directly to your brain to give the correction information to make a decision to: STOP (red light) CAUTION (yellow light) GO (green light)

ISRAEL is mentioned over 2500 times in the Bible and Jerusalem, over 800 times. God promises us blessings if we honor and support Israel.

This also includes the promises give to Abraham; Gen. 12:1-3; Psalm 122:6-9; Gal. 3:14; 28,29

This promise of Jesus Christ to the Gentiles opens the door to:

· Repentance of sin

· Eternal life in Heaven

A Biblical Worldview of the Word of God (The Bible) will change your Life.

The Word of God was written approximately over 1500 years by 40 writers, all Jewish except for Dr. Luke, who wrote the Gospel of Luke and the Book of Acts. All 40 writers were inspired by the Holy Spirit.

Jesus Christ was Jewish as were all 12 disciples.

David, in his last words, thanked the Lord for this honor of being anointed of God; II Samuel 23:1-3

ALL scripture is given by inspiration (divine breathed) of God; II Timothy 3:16,17

David said in Psalm 119: 9-16:

1. Cleanse our way – because of God’s Word

2. I will hide God’s Word in our hearts so that we might not sin against HIM.

3. I will meditate in the Word of god

4. I will not forget Thy Word

It is amazing to me how the Holy Spirit links the two apples (pupils) of His eye to each other.

For further teaching and notes on subjects like:

1. Prayer for Israel

2. How to Live Your Life as God’s Temple

3. Our Bodies are Amazing Creations

4. A Biblical Worldview of the Word of God Will Change Your Life

5. Why Did God choose Israel to be He Apple of His Eye, as His Chosen People.

My personal application:

1. Israel. The world is calling for a two-state solution but the Bible says that God names the boundaries of Israel. Numbers 14. Israel gave away Gaza in 2005 for the sake of having peace and look what has happened when God’s Word is disobeyed.

2. The apple of God’s eye gives us principles for many things, including:

a. Marriage

b. Finances

c. How to handle trials

d. How to overcome fear and worry

e. And many, many more….

There are over 7,000 languages in the world and as far as I know, the word, HALLELUJAH, Meaning, PRAISE THE LORD, is pronounced the same.

Please feel free to pass this on to others.

Shalom,

Barry Borthistle

bborthistle@shaw.ca

www.solomonsporchteaching.com

With the World in An Economic Mess, Are You Interested in a New Economic Model?

dougmorneau@marzany.com (Doug Morneau) — Mon, 07 Jul 2025 03:00:10 GMT

We have separated the spiritual and the secular too long

www.solomonsporchteaching.com

With the World in An Economic Mess,

Would You Be Interested in a New Economic Model?

Did you know that approximately 50% of the parables Jesus taught were about:

Work
Wealth
Attitude
Choices

KEY POINT: When you make a foundation of a principles it can be life-changing. We have separated the spiritual and the secular for too long.

About Barry Borthistle

Married

40 years to Margaret, who passed away in 2000; Married to Ruth;

5 children and 15 grandchildren

Education

Bachelor of Business Administration Degree, Marketing Major

Business Background

• Former president of a $200 million nutritional company

• Fifteen years as corporate executive with The Bay, Sears and Canadian Tire

• Twenty-six years self-employed; owned and began several small businesses in retail sector and in direct-selling industry

• Experienced corporate and personal bankruptcy (1979; interest rates at 23%)

• Former International President and Co-founder of TriVita, Inc.

• Six years as a pastor

• Presently, Presidential Director with TriVita, Inc.

Awards

• The Price-Waterhouse recognition for new start-up companies, 1996

• The prestigious Winston Churchill Award, 1997

• Featured in North America's "Who's Who in Business", 1998 & 2004

• Leading health professionals award, 2006, Cambridge, England

• Entrepreneurial Leader Award, 2008, Trinity Western University, Langley, British Columbia

• Co-Founder Award, TriVita, Inc., 2012

PARABLES DISCUSSED

1. Laborers in the Vineyard - Matthew 20:1-16

2. Parable of the Growing Seed - Mark 4:26-29

3. Parable of the Two Debtors - Luke 7:36-50

4. Parable of the Great Banquet - Luke 14:15-24

5. Parable of the Pharisee and the Tax Collector - Luke 18:9-14

6. Parable of the Unjust Steward - Luke 16:1-14

7. Parable of the Talents - Matthew 25:14-30

8. Parable of the Leaven - Matthew 13:33

9. Parable of the Rich Fool - Luke 12:13-31

10. Parable of the Minas- Luke 19:11-26

11. Parable of the Mustard Seed- Matthew 13:31-32

12. Parable of the Unmerciful Servant- Matthew 18: 21-35

Many of the thoughts and titles come from a book entitled, "Economic Parables: The Monetary Teachings of Jesus Christ" by David Cowan. BUY THE BOOK.

David has studied at:

1. Cambridge University

2. Oxford University

3. Princeton University

David has worked as a bank executive at the World Bank Group in Washington D.C. He has also worked for the Financial Times and Euromoney.

David has been interviewed by:

1. CNBC

2. Bloomberg

3. Wall Street Journal

Go to simpletruths.com - great material

HOW MUCH IS A TRILLION?

Joel Rosenberg

The concept of going more than $17 trillion - that's trillion, with a t - into debt with no end in sight is hard for most people to understand. It is certainly hard for me to get my mind around.

Maybe this will help. According to an interesting website called DefeatTheDebt.com:

• If we were to pay one dollar every second of every hour of every day of every month to pay down our national debt, it would take us almost 32,000 years just to pay off $1 trillion; to pay off $14 trillion would take more than 443,000 years.

• If we were to spend $10 million a day to pay down our national debt, it would take us about 273 years to get to $1 trillion - so it would take us about 3,822 years to pay off $14 trillion.

• One trillion is more than the number of stars in the Milky Way.

• It would take more than ten thousand 18-wheelers to transport one trillion $1 bills. Our national debt today would fill up 30 of the largest container ships ever constructed, each holding more than 4,100 containers of cash.

• Fifteen trillion $1 bills, laid end to end and side to side, would pave every interstate, highway, and country road in America - twice - with a good amount left over.

Something is not working.

ETERNITY AND ECONOMICS

Ken Frenke, CFP

We must understand what the economy is and isn't. The "economy" is the sum of everyone's individual choices to save, spend, give, invest, borrow, and lend. It is neutral - neither good nor bad in itself. It simply represents our activity.

The study of economics gives us tools to understand and measure cause and effect, and how to fully utilize God's abundance.

Economics does not tell us what we ought to do. Nor does it provide a moral framework for decisions. Our source for that is God.

Our motives, however, are as important as what we do. The Bible makes it clear that there are only two ways to look at the world - two sources of wisdom to understand how things ought to be.

Heavenly Wisdom - James 3:17-18 Worldly Wisdom - James 3:13-16

Who is wise and understanding among you? Let him show by good conduct that his works are done in the meekness of wisdom. 14 But if you have bitter envy and self-seeking in your hearts, do not boast and lie against the truth. 15 This wisdom does not descend from above, but is earthly, sensual, demonic. 16 For where envy and self-seeking exist, confusion and every evil thing are there. 17 But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, willing to yield, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality and without hypocrisy. 18 Now the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace by those who make peace.

Have you ever known anyone who claimed to be wise, but acted foolishly? True wisdom can be measured by the depth of one's character. As you can identify a tree by the type of fruit it produces, you can evaluate your wisdom by the way you act. Foolishness leads to disorder, but wisdom leads to peace and goodness.

"You know, it's said that an economist is the only professional who sees something working in practice and then seriously wonders if it works in theory." - Ronald Reagan

Quote from David Cowan:

Two stark insights need to be kept in mind as we consider Jesus' economic parables.

The first is that they include many more references to economic issues than is often appreciated. The second is that the disciples and the early church lived in communities, founded on generosity and almsgiving. How different the New Testament world and our economic world of today!

However, neither from the parables themselves nor from the practice of the early church can we draw any systematic biblical economic model. What we are faced with in these parables is a challenge to the way we live now - a challenge produced by Jesus' message and by the way the earliest disciples understood how they were to follow him.

Jesus' parables rely on the notion that the natural order of things is divinely ordered in some way, which may explain why he can put nature to work in the parables so vividly. The details given are not independent of the story, although they are not about specific places or the place where Jesus is teaching. They achieve significance only through the story, which the hearers understand because Jesus uses ordinary and readily recognizable elements of the rural economy or life in a small town or neighborhood. There is an affinity between natural order and spiritual dimension that helps us to understand these words of Jesus.

This affinity with the natural order remains today, and our spiritual thirst equally needs to be quenched. We can talk about a material economy and a spiritual economy, both of which demand that we use our resources carefully. As Jesus observed, if we cannot be trusted with the little things, how can we be trusted with the big things?

DID YOU KNOW?

1. There are approximately 2,200 verses in the Bible about money.

2. Almost 50% of the parables are about 1. money, 2. work

3. There is nothing wrong with money. It is the love of money that is the problem. 1 Timothy 6:6-10: Despite almost overwhelming evidence to the contrary, most people still believe that money brings happiness. Rich people craving greater riches can be caught in an endless cycle which only ends in ruin and destruction. How can you keep away from the love of money? Paul gives us some principles: (1) realize that one day riches will all be gone (6:7.17); (2) be content with what you have (6:8); (3) monitor what you are willing to do to get more money (6:9, 10); (4) love people more than money (6:11); (5) love God's work more than money (6:11); (6) freely share what you have with others (6:18). (See Proverbs 30:7-9.)

4. Jesus appeared 132 times in the New Testament which were recorded, and 122 times it was in the market place.

5. "The main thing about money is that it makes you do things that you do not want to." do - Wall Street Journal

Quote from David Cowan:

The free enterprise system, for all its faults, works. This reality is important to reflect upon as we progress in our study because it is both a threat and an opportunity. The threat is to blindly bless the system; the opportunity is to utilize it as a tool (though imperfect) to help improve our communities. Capitalism promotes freedom and democracy since these are the conditions under which it works best. It has weaknesses because it is a way of organizing human beings, and therefore, like all things human, it is imperfect. The belief that the government can best direct the economy at the expense of private enterprise - and engineer a more moral society in the process - is ill-founded. Nevertheless, this belief appeals to advocates of a socialist basis to the economy because of the conviction that the state is more moral than the individual.

Jesus employed everyday language and images in his parables to talk about God, the kingdom of God, and the life of faith. Jesus doesn't just use the term "the kingdom of God" and expect his hearers to understand right away. He says, "The kingdom of Heaven is like..." and then adds the image of a farmer sowing seed, a pearl, a mustard seed, and other tangible objects or everyday images. In this way Jesus could get people's attention or make it easier for people to understand different things. The parables contained the grain of truth - "the word" - but the message was wrapped in a story of camouflage because the full impact was not intended for all hearers, as we see in Jesus' quotation of the prophet Isaiah in the passages in Mark 4. The full meaning was for those who had understood and were saved by "the word." The same remains true for us today because Scripture is "the Word of God."

The trouble with Jesus is that he makes you do things you don't want to do! When he spoke to the young man, he knew what stood between the young man and discipleship. Jesus deliberately placed upon him what seems to be an impossible demand because his material things stood between him and God. In our modern economic world, we must ask ourselves the same question: What seemingly impossible demands does Jesus make on us?

By reading through these economic parables and listening directly to the words of Jesus, you can discover for yourself the answers to this question. This journey will surely enrich your faith; and some of the answers will be surprising, in part because Jesus was a more sophisticated economist than he is given credit for by the modern world. He understands the complexities of our world. He knows we can become enslaved to economic realities, but he also knows that we can live in this economic world in the light of the gospel. Many of the kinds of problems we have to face and the decisions we have to make have not changed in two thousand years. Jesus told stories using economic images and ideas because he understood that is how people in all times and places live. What is incredible is that Jesus can look at our complicated problems and address them in simple terms, such as a sower, a rich fool, or workers in a vineyard. All those listening to Jesus then knew what he was talking about, and we too can understand today.

We cannot look at the problems of the world as something that can be solved simply by human integrity and economic manipulation. We have to look at what God intends - what is his economic plan. Remember this: In the divine economy, there is no competition. There is only one Lord. Let's listen to him.

The Power of Choice

We all have the right to choose, We all have the right not to choose,

But none of us have the right to choose the consequences of our choices.

But remember...

Not to choose... is to choose.

Why did Jesus teach in parables?

Key thought: R.T. France

The laws of capitalist economics (capital breeds income; lack of capital spells ruin) serve as a 'parable' of spiritual enlightenment. The 'secrets' of God's kingdom can be grasped only by those who already have the spiritual capacity to receive them, i.e. the disciples as opposed to 'those outside'.

Matthew 13:10-13

10 And the disciples came and said to Him, "Why do You speak to them in parables?"

11 He answered and said to them, "Because it has been given to you to know the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven, but to them it has not been given. 12 For whoever has, to him more will be given, and he will have abundance; but whoever does not have, even what he has will be taken away from him. 13 Therefore I speak to them in parables, because seeing they do not see, and hearing they do not hear, nor do they understand.

Key words:

1. Mystery- secret

2. Abundance - increase, excess; excel - super-abound

So What is the Kingdom of Heaven?

1. Mentioned 34 times in Matthew alone.

2. The Kingdom of Heaven appears to have no international boundaries and appears to be related to the authority and choices we make in our daily lives.

3. The Kingdom of Heaven appears 13 times in Matthew 13, and it appears in each example the story relates to a situation on Earth.

4. John Maxwell calls this fact The Law of Empowerment, which multiplies your influence.

5. King David prophesied why parables must be taught:

Psalm 78:1-4: 0 my people, listen to my teaching. Open your ears to what I am saying,

2,3 For I will show you lessons from our history, stories handed down to us from former generations. 41 will reveal these truths to you so that you can describe these glorious deeds of Jehovah to your children, and tell them about the mighty miracles he did.

Key Words: Open your ears to what will be said in the parables.

6. Jesus gave instructions to His disciples that the Kingdom of Heaven was at hand. Matthew 4:17: From then on, Jesus began to preach, "Turn from your sin, and turn to God, for the Kingdom of heaven is near."

John Maxwell:

The Law of Reproduction and Legacy:

Jesus Raised Up Leaders

(Matthew 4:12-25)

As Jesus began His public ministry, He preached (Matt. 4:12-17), then passed yet another test of leadership: He called other leaders to join Him (4:18-22). These twelve men He called disciples. Immediately He began developing them into future leaders for the church.

Jesus passed the acid test of leadership: Could He reproduce His leadership in someone else? At the same time He chose three fishermen, He cast vision for spiritual reproduction: "Follow Me," He said, "and I will make you fishers of men" (4:19). Clearly, He called these men to become leaders as well.

What do we learn about Jesus' selection and development of leaders?

1. He found them in the course of His everyday world (v.18).

Jesus was walking by the Sea of Galilee and spotted men close to Him.

2. He handpicked them (v. 19).

Jesus didn't hold a popularity vote; He chose the ones He knew were right.

3. He called them to become leaders (v.19).

Jesus called them not only to follow Him, but to influence others.

4. He used language they understood (v.19).

Jesus plainly challenged them to catch men instead of fish.

5. He took them on a journey and demonstrated leadership (vv.23-25). Jesus modeled leadership as he traveled through Judea.

6. The supreme law of the Kingdom of Heaven is THE GOLDEN RULE. Matthew 7:37-40:

37 Jesus replied, "'Love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, and mind.' 38,39 This is the first and greatest commandment. The second most important is similar: 'Love your neighbor as much as you love yourself.' 40 All the other commandments and all the demands of the prophets stem from these two laws and are fulfilled if you obey them. Keep only these and you will find that you are obeying all the others."

If you teach your children the Golden Rule, you will have left an estate of incalculable value.

7. We have been given the keys (administrative authority) to the Kingdom of Heaven. Matthew 16:19:

And I will give you the keys of the Kingdom of Heaven; whatever doors you lock on earth shall be locked in heaven; and whatever doors you open on earth shall be open in heaven!

I do not believe that there are shortages of any kind for our living on Earth. God gave us an abundance. The problem is man's greed - selfishness and misuse of this abundance.

9. What did Jesus mean by giving us Abundance? The word means: super-abound; to excel; have more; increase over and above. It is also applied to the following words: 1. speech;

2. joy; 3. grace; 4. labor; 5. salvation; 6. eternity; 7. love; 8. finances - both in having wealth and the warning of dangers of wealth; 9. meeting the needs of others; 10. hope; 11. faith. I think it is very obvious that when we understand the secrets or mysteries of the Kingdom of Heaven on Earth we have a much better idea of the vital importance of understanding and living in the principals of the economic Parables of Jesus.

1. Parable of the Laborers in the Vineyard

Matthew 20:1-16

Principle: The essential point of this parable is that God's generosity transcends the human ideas of fairness.

MATTHEW 20:1-16

20 "For the kingdom of heaven is like a landowner who went out early in the morning to hire laborers for his vineyard. 2 Now when he had agreed with the laborers for a denarius a day, he sent them into his vineyard. 3 And he went out about the third hour and saw others standing idle in the marketplace, 4 and said to them, 'You also go into the vineyard, and whatever is right I will give you.' So they went. 5 Again he went out about the sixth and the ninth hour, and did likewise. 6 And about the eleventh hour he went out and found others standing idle,[a] and said to them, 'Why have you been standing here idle all day?' 7 They said to him, 'Because no one hired us.' He said to them, 'You also go into the vineyard, and whatever is right you will receive.'[b]

8 "So when evening had come, the owner of the vineyard said to his steward, 'Call the laborers and give them their wages, beginning with the last to the first.' 9 And when those came who were hired about the eleventh hour, they each received a denarius. 10 But when the first came, they supposed that they would receive more; and they likewise received each a denarius. 11 And when they had received it, they complained against the landowner, 12 saying, 'These last men have worked only one hour, and you made them equal to us who have borne the burden and the heat of the day.' 13 But he answered one of them and said, 'Friend, I am doing you no wrong. Did you not agree with me for a denarius? 14 Take what is yours and go your way. I wish to give to this last man the same as to you. 15 Is it not lawful for me to do what I wish with my own things? Or is your eye evil because I am good?' 16 So the last will be first, and the first last. For many are called, but few chosen."

John Maxwell:

Attitude: Leaders Must Focus on God's Ability, Not Their Own

(Matthew 20:1-16)

Leaders should often read this story. It describes God's grace, illustrated by a landowner and his vineyard workers. The workers show us how leaders look when they take their eyes off God and focus on themselves. Through this parable Jesus attempts to correct wrong attitudes. He is trying to address:

l. Self-absorption

We grumble and complain about inequities. We focus more on our work than God's.

2. Comparison

We ignore God's grace, remaining preoccupied with the status of others.

3. Presumption

We assume too much when it comes to rewards, forgetting that every blessing is a gift.

4. Distortion

When we judge others as unworthy, we misunderstand that the entire kingdom is built on grace.

Planting, maintaining and harvesting vineyards in first-century Israel was strenuous work requiring hard physical labor in the heat of summer. Often, additional laborers were required to get all the work done. The owner of this particular vineyard went to the marketplace at the first hour of the morning (6:00 a.m.) to find workers for the day. His offered wage was one denarius, a Roman's soldier's pay for a day, was generous indeed. The workers in the first group were more than happy to work for the generous wage.

As the day progressed and more workers were hired, the specific wage was not mentioned, but the landowner promised to pay "whatever is right." Apparently, the workers were sufficiently confident of the landowner's character that they trusted him at his word. Altogether, four groups of workers were hired, the last group just one hour before the end of the day. When the time came for the wages to be paid, the first group of workers saw the last group of workers being paid a denarius and were naturally thinking they would be paid more since they had worked the longest. Their anger against the landowner spilled forth when they saw they would only be paid the same, even thought they got exactly what they had agreed upon when they were hired. The landowner was forced to defend his actions to the first group, even though he had dealt with them in perfect fairness according to the contract.

The landowner, who decision to pay all the workers the same was an act of mercy

Interpretation

The word translated "penny" in the King James Version of this parable is the denarius, a silver coin which was the usual day's wage for a laborer. The hours here are measured starting at about 6:00 AM, so that the eleventh hour is between about 4:00 and 5:00 PM. The workers are poor men working as temporary farmhands during the harvest season, and the employer realizes that they would all need a full day's pay to feed their families. They payment at evening follows Old Testament guidelines:

Thou shalt not oppress an hired servant that is poor and needy, whether he be of thy brethren, or of thy strangers that are in thy land within thy gates: At his day thou shalt give him his hire, neither shall the sun go down upon it; for he is poor, and setteth his heart upon it: lest he cry against thee unto the LORD, and it be sin unto thee. - Deuteronomy 24: 14-15

Quote from David Cowen:

Some of us are "doing better" than others. Some live in better neighborhoods, have better jobs, and earn more money. It seems that some people get better rewarded than others. Is this fair? Why should the economy not be prosperous for everyone? Of course, maybe we're just envious. The Bible tells us that God has provided for us all by challenging our generosity and pride.

The parable of the workers in the vineyard looks like it condones people jumping in line. "The last will be first, and the first will be last." If we look a little closer, though, not all is as it seems. Typically known as the parable of the workers in the vineyard, this parable has also been called the parable of the eccentric employer because the employer pays the workers in such an odd way. The landowner has hired thoughout the day a number of men to work all at the same wage of one denarius - regardless of when they started work. He does not account for the number of hours the men have in fact labored, so those who started early and labored most of the day received the exact same wage as those who came along as dusk fell and worked many less hours. This is not normal economic practice; it is not "a fair wage for a fair day's work."

This parable has been linked directly to economic issues like unemployment, property ownership, and a "just" or "minimum" wage. This last point is the notion of a moral theory for determining wages so that people are paid according to a standard of what is a "fair," "living," or "sustainable" wage. These terms are all somewhat subjective, since the standard of living will be different in America compared to Rwanda, for example. What a large multinational company can pay in wage and benefits is quite different from what a Mom and Pop operation can pay.

The argument can be set against the backdrop of profit. Since wages affect the amount of profit to be had, they will soon enough become a factor in attacks on big business. The moral objection suggests that wages are set at the lowest level that big business can get away with. There is also the idea that surplus profit only goes to the big bosses, not to the workers. Set against this is the argument that higher wages make products more expensive, and if wages are too high then workers will be sourced in places or countries where labor is cheaper. As to surplus profit, the investors take the risks and should reap the reward.

20:13-15. The landowner retorts with a twofold response: (1) he had paid them what he owed (20:13), so he did not commit and injustice; and (2) his generosity to the others is not an injustice to them. He also implies with his question at 20:15b that those who complain are envious.

The landowner addresses one of the workers with the term "friend" (20:13), a vocative in Greek. The term is used in the same form in this Gospel also at 22:12 (where the king addresses the man without a wedding garment) and 26:50 (where Jesus addresses Judas in Gethsemane). The term is therefore not a positive one. It is used in cases where the person being addressed is insolent or deceitful and is being confronted and exposed.

The response of the landowner is what has been called an instance of "reframing." The workers complain about unfairness, but the landowner does not give a direct response to their charge. He does not respond on their terms. Instead he comes up with a new frame of reference altogether, and that is the perspective of generosity. The concepts of fairness of generosity are related sufficiently to make the transition possible from one to the other. But the shift calls for a whole new way of thinking, a new frame of reference for any future relationships.

Application:

1. The old saying "Life is just not fair" is how I am sure the workers who worked all day must have felt.

2. I suggest that if the workers who worked all day had experienced a different attitude, things would be much better.

"When I started counting my blessings, my whole life turned around."

Willie Nelson

"Appreciation is a wonderful thing; it makes what is excellent in others belong to us as well."

Voltaire

"Whatever we plant in our subconscious mind and nourish with repetition and emotion will one day become a reality."

Earl Nightingale

"You never know when a moment a few sincere words can have an impact on a life." Zig Ziglar

Quote from Mac Anderson:

"Consider this: Five frogs are on a log. One decides to jump off. How many are left? The answer is five, because deciding is not doing. To change habit successfully, we have to act.

Leading businesses all over the world are now using a change process often referred to as kaizen. The word kaizen is Japanese and it essentially means "good change" as part of an ongoing, continuous improvement philosophy. The term kaizen event has become popular in many organizations seeking to implement positive change quickly. The key to running a successful kaizen event is to be focused, committed, decisive and action-oriented. These events are about making changes in days, not months. Another key to running a successful kaizen event is to seek "better, not best." The changes we make will not necessarily be perfect. Habits die hard. The new behavior or process will not be perfect. It will be better, but there will always be room for improvement."

"It is good to appreciate that life is now. Whatever it offers, little or much, life is now - this day - this hour." - Charles Macomb Flandrau

"Without purpose, passion, and a sense that we are making a difference, what meaning does our life really have, and why should we strive to do our best work? The beauty of appreciation is that we can each give to anyone we choose. It costs nothing, except a few moments of our time." - Barbara A. Glanz

2. Parable of the Growing Seed

Mark 4:26-29

"A farmer sowed his field, and went away, and as the days went by, the seeds grew and grew without his help. For the soil made the seeds grow. First a leaf-blade pushed through, and later the wheat-heads formed and finally the grain ripened, and then the farmer came at once with his sickle and harvested it." Mark 4:26-29

Parable of the Sower

3 "Listen! A farmer went out to sow his seed. 4 As he was scattering the seed, some fell along the path, and the birds came and ate it up. 5 Some fell on rocky places, where it did not have much soil. It sprang up quickly, because the soil was shallow. 6 But when the sun came up, the plants were scorched, and they withered because they had no root. 7 Other seed fell among thorns, which grew up and choked the plants, so that they did not bear grain. 8 Still other seed fell on good soil. It came up, grew and produced a crop, some multiplying thirty, some sixty, some a hundred times." 9 Then Jesus said, "Whoever has ears to hear, let them hear." Mark 4:3-9

Principle: We cannot succeed in any area of life unless seeds are planted which is the only area of nature we control.

"God's promise to Noah remains, there will be springtime and harvest, cold and heat, winter and summer, day and night." Genesis 8:22

Not all seed planting produces guaranteed or even the same result.

Seed was planted or sowed by hand. As the farmer walked across the field, he threw handfuls of seed onto the ground from a large bag slung across his shoulders. The plants did not grow in neat rows as with today's machine planting. No matter how skillful he may have been, no farmer could keep all his seed from falling on the path or among rocks and thorns or from being carried off by the wind. He threw the seed liberally, however, and enough fell on good ground to ensure harvest.

John Maxwell:

The Principle of the Seed

(Mark 4:2-20)

Who is the sower in Jesus' parable? The sower is a person of influence, a leader, anyone who declares God's Word. The sower scatters a lot of seed, and only later determines the character of the soil. Note a few principles all leaders need to know about sowing seed:

1. A lot of seed must be scattered to produce a crop.

2. Not all soils produce, but we cannot reap if we do not sow.

3. We must continue sowing, because one day we will reap a harvest.

4. The soil that produces will multiply; we will reap more than we sow.

5. We will reap in proportion to what we have sown.

6. We cannot do anything about last year's harvest, but we can about this year's.

7. We must believe in the seed we sow, knowing that some will produce fruit.

8. Once we see fruit, all our efforts seem worthwhile.

Meditation: What do you know about sowing seeds? For a rural community that lived off the land, sowing was absolutely necessary for survival. The mere act of sowing brought great hope in the anticipation of a fruitful harvest. Jesus' story, however, gives a warning. A seed can't mature into fruit without the proper conditions for growth. Even the prophet Jeremiah gave similar advice several hundred years earlier: "Break up your fallow ground, and sow not among thorns." Jeremiah 4:3

Principle: Consider carefully where you are planting seeds.

There are obviously decisions to be made as to where one sows their seed.

1. Physically

2. Emotionally

3. Spiritually

4. Financially

Remember, the main economy of the day in which the parables were taught was agriculture. "However, in the Jordan Valley a hundredfold return is possible" Genesis 26:13-14

That year Isaac's crops were tremendous - 100 times the grain was sowed. For Jehovah blessed him. He was soon a man of great wealth, and became richer and richer. He had large clocks of sheep and goats, great herds of cattle and many servants. And the Philistines became jealous of him.

Application: SEED PLANTING IDEAS

1. Seeds of compliment

"I can go for a month on one compliment" Mark Twain

Many years ago William James aid, "The deepest principle of human nature is a craving to be appreciated." I truly believe that the need to be validated and appreciated as a worthwhile human being is greater than ever before, especially in our schools, our workplaces and homes. A recent study indicated that last year 65% of our workforce reported they had received NO appreciation for the good work they had done!

"Change your thoughts and change your world." Norman Vincent Peale

2. Seeds of faith

"The only thing that stands between a person and what they want from life is often the will to try it and the faith to believe it's possible."

Rich Devos

"Without faith it is impossible (impotent) to please God." - Hebrews 11:6

3. Seeds of attitude

-welcome conflict, trials and challenges

"In the middle of every difficulty comes opportunity."

Albert Einstein

"The harder the conflict, the more glorious the triumph.

What we attain too cheaply, we esteem too lightly; it is adversity that gives everything its value." Thomas Payne

4. Seeds of recognition and praise

"There are two things that people want more than sex and money... recognition and praise."

Mary Kay Ash

"It's not the things you get but the hearts you touch that will determine your success in life."

Mac Anderson

"You never know when a moment and a few sincere words can have an impact on your life."

Zig Zigler

True story by Mac Anderson:

One snowy February day I walked in the Ladies washroom at O'Hare Airport. There was a woman there who was cleaning. She was all hunched over, glum-looking, and listlessly going through the motions of her job. I walked over, gently touched her on the arm, looked her directly in the eyes, and said, "That you so much for keeping this washroom clean. You're really making a difference for all of us who travel."

She stopped what she was doing, looked at me with wonder in her eyes, immediately straightened up, and began cleaning with a passion. A huge smile spread across her face and by the time I left, she was passing out towels to all the women who were washing their hands!

I left that washroom with tears in my eyes because that interaction had cost me nothing. However, it changed her life, at last for a few moments. My appreciation of her and the value of her very important work gave her a purpose and reason for being. SHE WAS MAKING A DIFFERENCE!

5. Seeds of PASSION

"Belief fuels passion, and ... passion rarely fails"

"People are like sticks of dynamite... the power's on the inside but nothing happens until the fuse gets lit."

"Without purpose, passion and a sense that we are making a difference,

what meaning does our life really have, and why should we strive to do our best work? The beauty of appreciation is that we can give it to anyone we choose. It costs nothing, except a few moments of our time."

Mac Anderson quotes

6. Seeds of enthusiasm

"Nothing was ever accomplished without enthusiasm." Ralph Waldo Emerson

A bellman made my day recently. After checking into an Atlanta hotel, Sam (his name was on his badge) picked up my two bags, gave a big smile, and said, "Isn't it a gorgeous day today?" I nodded and said, "Sure is." He then said, "I just spent the entire weekend with my two grandkids, and I can't remember when I've had more fun. Aren't kids great?" I nodded again, and said, "They are special," and then I added, "Sam, it seems like you're having a great day." He then looked up with a grin I'll never forget and said, "Mr. Anderson, every day above ground is a great day!" I walked into my room feeling recharged by Sam's enthusiasm. It was obvious that he had chosen to live life to the fullest, and given the opportunity to touch someone's life in a positive way, my bet is that he took it, every time.

Every day we all have that same opportunity to make a positive difference in the lives of others. We can choose to mope about our lot in life, or we can decide to live in awe, touching hearts along the way. Ah, yes...we all know ducks who make lots of noise, quacking and complaining about their problems in life. And then there are eagles, who go about their business and consistently soar above the crowd. Thanks, Sam, for soaring into my life.

Enthusiasm means "God in us."

I I

A AM

s SOLD

M MYSELF

7. Attitude and dreaming are vital seeds - Attitude is everything.

"You become what you think about."

Earl Nightingale

"First we make our attitudes. Then our attitudes make us.

Look at everything as though you are seeing it for the first time, with eyes of a child, fresh with wonder!"

Joseph Cornell

DREAMS

If you are one of these dreamers, I want you to know That there's good news.

YOU CAN reshape your dreams. YOU CAN overcome obstacles. YOU CAN live your dream.

John Maxwell

"OWN YOUR DREAMS... discovering your purpose in life." Michael Ellison

8. The Secret to Living is Giving

'It is in giving that we receive." St. Francis of Assisi

HOW GIVING TOUCHES YOUR HEART - Mac Anderson

Looking for a guaranteed road to happiness?

It's really quite simple... give to others. Make a difference in the lives of others and your own heart will be touched in return.

Take the experience of Dr. Howard Kelly in a true story called "PAID IN FULL":

One day, a poor boy who was selling goods from door-to-door to pay his way through school found he had only one thin dime left, and he was hungry. He decided he would ask for a meal at the next house. However, he lost his nerve when a lovely young woman opened the door. Instead of a meal, he asked for a drink of water. She thought he looked hungry and so she brought him a large glass of milk. He drank it slowly and then asked, "How much do I owe you?"

"You don't owe me anything," she replied. "Mother taught us never to accept pay for a kindness." He said,"Then I thank you from my heart." As Howard Kelly left that house, he not only felt stronger physically, but his faith in God and man was strengthened also. He had been ready to give up and quit.

Years later, that young woman became critically ill. The local doctors were baffled. They finally sent her to the big city, where they called in specialists to study her rare disease.

Dr. Kelly was called in for the consultation. When he heard the name of the town she came form, he went down the hall of the hospital to her room. Dressed in his doctor's gown, he went in to see her. He recognized her at once. He went back to the consultation room determined to do his best to save her life. From that day, he gave special attention to the case.

After a long struggle, the battle was won. Dr. Kelly requested the business office to pass the final billing to him for approval. He looked at it, then wrote something on the edge, and the bill was sent to her room. She feared to open it, for she was sure it would take the rest of her life to pay for it all. Finally, she looked, and something caught her attention on the side of the bill. She read these words: "Paid in full with one glass of milk." signed, Dr. Howard Kelly

(Dr. Howard Kelly was a distinguished physician who, in 1895, founded the Johns Hopkins Division of Gynecolgic Oncology at Johns Hopkins University. According to Dr. Kelly's biographer, Audrey Davis, the doctor was on a walking trip through Northern Pennsylvania one Spring day when he stopped by a farmhouse for a drink of water.)

Conclusion:

Become a seed planter. Why? It is God's covenant with nature. Genesis 8:20-22

God says that while the Earth remains, there will be seedtime and harvest, cold and heat, winter and summer, day and night. The only thing we have any control over is seedtime.

Remember... BEHAVIOR FOLLOWS BELIEF

"The cave you fear to enter holds the treasure you seek."

Joseph Campbell

"If you want to life yourself up, life up someone else."

Booker T. Washington

"When I chased after money, I never had enough. When I got my life on purpose and focused on giving of myself and everything that arrived in my life, then I was prosperous."

Wayne Dyer

"Let us not be satisfied with just giving money. Money is not enough, money can be got, but they need your hearts to love them. So, spread your love everywhere you go."

Mother Teresa

3. The Parable of the Two Debtors

Luke 7:36-50

36 Then one of the Pharisees asked Him to eat with him. And He went to the Pharisee's house, and sat down to eat. 37 And behold, a woman in the city who was a sinner, when she knew that Jesus sat at the table in the Pharisee's house, brought an alabaster flask of fragrant oil, 38 and stood at His feet behind Him weeping; and she began to wash His feet with her tears, and wiped them with the hair of her head; and she kissed His feet and anointed them with the fragrant oil. 39 Now when the Pharisee who had invited Him saw this, he spoke to himself, saying, "This Man, if He were a prophet, would know who and what manner of woman this is who is touching Him, for she is a sinner."

40 And Jesus answered and said to him, "Simon, I have something to say to you." So he said, "Teacher, say it."

41 "There was a certain creditor who had two debtors. One owed five hundred denarii, and the other fifty. 42 And when they had nothing with which to repay, he freely forgave them both. Tell Me, therefore, which of them will love him more?"

43 Simon answered and said, "I suppose the one whom he forgave more."

And He said to him, "You have rightly judged." 44 Then He turned to the woman and said to Simon, "Do you see this woman? I entered your house; you gave Me no water for My feet, but she has washed My feet with her tears and wiped them with the hair of her head. 45 You gave Me no kiss, but this woman has not ceased to kiss My feet since the time I came in.

46 You did not anoint My head with oil, but this woman has anointed My feet with fragrant oil. 47 Therefore I say to you, her sins, which are many, are forgiven, for she loved much. But to whom little is forgiven, the same loves little."

48 Then He said to her, "Your sins are forgiven."

49 And those who sat at the table with Him began to say to themselves, "Who is this who even forgives sins?"

50 Then He said to the woman, "Your faith has saved you. Go in peace."

Principle: The vital importance of forgiveness in our lives.

Rap:

A Pharisee named Simon had Jesus come over For dinner to eat perhaps something leftover Though being a man of much morality

Simon didn't really show much hospitality

But a woman barged in and washed Jesus' feet While Simon was caught up in his own conceit For this woman was a sinner maybe even a whore This woman, Simon thought, Jesus should deplore But Jesus turned to Simon and told him this story

For Jesus knew his thought and so spoke derogatory "Two men owed money to a certain lender

One owed 500, he was a big spender

The other owed 50, but neither could pay back

So he canceled the debts, forgiving their lack

Now which of these two do you suppose would love more" (Would it be Simon or rather the whore?)

"The one who owed more," Simon replied Not understanding what Jesus implied. "You have judged correctly," Jesus said. "But you did not pour oil on my head, Nor wash my feet when I came in

But this woman did, this woman of sin.

So I tell you woman, your sins have been forgiven Before you were dead, but now you're really livin." So those who love little, may not in Christ abide

But their real problem may just be that they are filled with pride.

Quote from David Cowan:

Introduction

The forgiveness of debts, applied to debts owed by poor nations to rich nations, has become a political policy. This idea is based on texts in Leviticus related to the Year of Jubilee. There are problems with viewing forgiveness in this way. This parable and the story surrounding it show us what Jesus really means by forgiveness - that is, that it is a concept outside the realm of economics.

A popular application of forgiveness in the past decade has come from the campaign to erase the debts owed by poorer nations to richer nations. Many groups, both secular and Christian, have put pressure on governments, especially in American and Britain, to "forgive" these debts. The campaign started off overtly Christian, acquiring its name from the concept of the Year of Jubilee in Leviticus. "Jubilee 2000" called for the "one-off cancellation of the unpayable debts of the world's poorest countries by the end of the year 2000, under a fair and transparent process." As the year 2000 passed, and more secular groups joined the effort, the campaign downplayed Jubilee in its name and rallied behind the slogan "Drop the Debt!" Government and bankers resisted the demand but made some concessions, with strings attached. More recently there has been more commitment to dropping the debts, but campaigners complain it is still not enough.

So what's the beef? The contention is that poorer countries are under such a burden of debt that they spend more in debt repayments than on health and education. The argument goes that if their debt was cut these countries could spend much more on these vital areas, saving children's lives and giving the world's poor a new start. To boost their claims, the campaigners employ a few myths. Let's deal with the main two. First, rich European nations allegedly made the poor nations poor through colonial exploitation and the appropriation of cheap raw materials and commodities. Second, in these poor nations the free market system purportedly benefited a colonial power elite to the detriment of the poor.

The first myth conveniently ignores the economic and administrative benefits colonialism gave to these nations. While there were abuses, the problem has to be put I perspective. This argument is built on the notion that the rich nations should feel guilty about the poor nations. However, many former colonies, such as American, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Malaysia, and India, have hardly been exploited!

The second myth reveals the problem of state control and the corruption of power, rather than proving an innate weakness in the free market system. Corruption, bureaucracy, and price controls have stood in the way of poor people making money. The reality is that those with political power have kept the poor powerless and docile. Political decisions have superceded economic ones, thereby preventing economic growth. Positions of power have been filled through political patronage and bribery. Something needs to be done about poor economies, but the solution will never be purely economic, since political power and corruption play such a central part. Free enterprise actually favors the poor having power - "spending power." The free market system is built around expanding the middle class, not the lower class.

Application:

The power of forgiveness

Forgiveness should be part of the emotional life

Jesus, in The Lord's Prayer, taught that we are to forgive others as we are forgiven, and further, if we do not forgive, we will not be forgiven. -Matthew 6:9-15

Forgiveness:

Dictionary:

1. Cease to resent

2. Pardon

3. Act of forgiving

What is forgiveness?

1. Why is it important to forgive:

Forgiveness is important if you want to move on with your life. It does not mean you agree with what the person did to you, just that you will not let it rule your life anymore.

http://answers.ask.com/society/religion_and_spirituality/why_is_it_im portant_to_forgive

2. What does Forgiveness mean? To forgive someone means to 'let go' or 'let them off the hook' for something they said or did. True forgiveness means that you forgive and forget. Bury the hatchet, but don't go dig it up later! http://answers.ask.com/society/religion_and_spirituality/what_does_forgiveness_m ean

3. Understanding Forgiveness/ This Emotional Life

What is forgiveness? Forgiveness is one person's inner response to another's perceived injustice. http://www.pbs.org/thisemotionallife/topic/forgiveness/understanding-forgiveness

4. Forgiveness also involves learning to forgive yourself

Forgiveness:

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

F orgiveness is the renunciation or cessation of resentment, indignation or anger as a result of a perceived offence, disagreement, or mistake, or ceasing to demand punishment or restitution.[1][2] The Oxford English Dictionary defines forgiveness as 'to grant free pardon and to give up all claim on account of an offence or debt'. The concept and benefits of forgiveness have been explored in religious thought, the social sciences and medicine.

Forgiveness may be considered simply in terms of the person who forgives including forgiving themselves, in terms of the person forgiven or in terms of the relationship between the forgiver and the person forgiven. In most contexts, forgiveness is granted without any expectation of restorative justice, and without any response on the part of the offender (for example, one may forgive a person who is incommunicado or dead). In practical terms, it may be necessary for the offender to offer some form of acknowledgment, an apology, or even just ask for forgiveness, in order for the wronged person to believe himself able to forgive.[1]

Research

Studies show that people who forgive are happier and healthier than those who hold resentments.[6] The first study to look at how forgiveness improves physical health discovered that when people think about forgiving an offender it leads to improved functioning in their cardiovascular and nervous systems.[7] Another study at the University of Wisconsin found the more forgiving people were, the less they suffered from a wide range of illnesses. The less forgiving people reported a greater number of health problems.[8]

The research of Dr. Fred Luskin of Stanford University shows that forgiveness can be learned. Dr. Frederic Luskin's work is based on seven major research projects into the effects of forgiveness, giving empirical validity to the concept that forgiveness is not only powerful, but also excellent for your health. Dr. Fred Luskin author of the book "Learning to forgive"[9] was presented with a Champion of Forgiveness award by the Forgiveness Alliance[l0] for his groundbreaking work with forgiveness, reconciliation and peace.

Michael Ellison's Blog

Free yourself of toxins - through forgiveness! February 3, 2013

TriVita Wellness Entrepreneurs came from all over North America for training on the new Daily Detox product and program. The Event Auditorium was packed at the new TriVita Wellness Center. What an exciting time for me.

I had the joy of addressing this passionate group of wellness advocates. I spoke of how Daily Detox is more than just physical; it is understanding that the immune system is intelligent and is compromised when it is overwhelmed with physical, emotional and spiritual toxins. We are all aware of toxins in the air, water and food but there are also emotional and spiritual toxins.

I presented a very simple garbage bag illustration: we go through life stuffing our bag with negative experiences, without dealing with their toxic effects. For me, I always thought it was about trying to forget and move on. What I did not realize was that the toxic effect remained there in my subconscious. I just stuffed the experience in my life garbage bag. Most everyone in the audience began to think of some really tough life experiences that they had not dealt with through forgiveness. Sometimes we even need to forgive ourselves for making toxic bad choices. Forgiveness is one of the most empowering things we can do in our lives to eliminate the toxic effects of a bad experience. We can detoxify our lives!

I shared a prayer I have used; it has worked for me and I have witnessed amazing experiences in others who have used it as a way to free themselves of life's toxic effects. The prayer should be prayed until the word YOU has no face or person attached to it but is simply a word. I encourage you to just start this by saying you will read this prayer daily for one week. You will be amazed at its power. It is called a Prayer of Blessing:

I forgive YOU right now - wherever you are - whatever you are doing - whoever you are with - whatever you are thinking - whatever you are feeling about me or anyone else. I forgive you and blessyou and I let go of all resentment, hurt and pain. I pray this prayer of blessing for your life. I know I have been also set free to be blessed in my life. We are blessed!

The more we are free from life toxins, the more powerful we become. The less our immune system is compromised by dealing with toxins, the more vitality we have in life. The more vitality, the more joyful and rewarding is the life we can live! If you want more wellness, relationship and financial rewards in life, you must learn to live a less toxic life!

Forgiveness is God's way for us to cleanse ourselves, so be a host to God and not a hostage to self!

Michael

United States Holocaust Memorial Museum Holocaust Encyclopedia

Corrie Ten Boom:

For her efforts to hide Jews from arrest and deportation during the German occupation of the Netherlands, Corrie ten Boom (1892-1983) received recognition from the Yad Vashem Remembrance Authority as one of the "Righteous Among the Nations" on December 12, 1967. In resisting Nazi persecution, ten Boom acted in concert with her religious beliefs, her family experience, and the Dutch resistance. Her defiance led to imprisonment, internment in a concentration camp, and loss of family members who died from maltreatment while in German custody.

The ten Boom family were members of the Dutch Reformed Church, which protested Nazi persecution of Jews as an injustice to fellow human beings and an affront to divine authority. In her autobiography, ten Boom repeatedly cited religious motivations for hiding Jews, particularly her family's strong belief in a basic tenet of their religion: the equality of all human beings before God. Their religious activities had also brought the family a history of personal connections to the Jewish community. Corrie's grandfather had supported efforts to improve Christian-Jewish relations in the nineteenth century. Her brother Willem, a Dutch Reformed minister assigned to convert Jews, studied antisemitism and ran a nursing home for elderly of all faiths. In the late 1930s that nursing home became a refuge for Jews fleeing from Germany.

After World War II began, members of the ten Boom family became involved in resistance efforts. Two nephews worked in resistance cells. Various family members sheltered young men sought by the Nazis for forced labor and assisted Jews in contacting persons willing to hide them. Corrie became directly involved in these efforts when, along with her father and sister Betsie, she decided to hide Jews in the family home in Haarlem, the Netherlands. Using her job as a watchmaker in her father's shop as a cover, Corrie built contacts with resistance workers, who assisted her in procuring ration books and building a hiding place in the family home.

Six people, among them both Jews and resistance workers, hid in this hiding place when the Gestapo (German secret state police) raided the house on February 28, 1944. Those in hiding remained undiscovered. Several days after the raid resistance workers transferred them to other locations. In the meantime, however, the Gestapo had arrested Corrie ten Boom, her father, her brother and two sisters, and other family members. In addition, the Gestapo arrested several resistance workers who had unwittingly entered the house during the raid, as well as many family acquaintances who had been attending a prayer meeting in the living room. Altogether, the Gestapo arrested some 30 people in the ten Boom family home that day.

After holding them briefly in the penitentiary in Scheveningen, a seaside town close to The Hague, the Gestapo released all but three of the ten Boom family members. Corrie ten Boom, her older sister Betsie, and her father Casper remained in prison. Casper ten Boom became sick in prison and died in a hospital corridor only ten days after the arrest. The sisters remained in the Scheveningen prison until June 1944, when officials transferred them to an internment camp at Vught, in the Netherlands. In September 1944, the Nazis deported Corrie and Betsie ten Boom to the Ravensbrueck concentration camp in Germany. In Ravensbrueck, the sisters managed to stay together until Betsie died that December.

The camp administration released Corrie ten Boom in late December 1944. Along with other released prisoners, she traveled by train to Berlin, where she arrived on January 1, 1945. From Berlin, ten Boom journeyed across Germany by train until she reached the Netherlands, where she reunited with surviving members of her family.

After the war, ten Boom advocated reconciliation as a means for overcoming the psychological scars left by the Nazi occupation. She later traveled the world as an evangelist, motivational speaker, and social critic, referring to her experiences in Ravensbrueck as she offered solace to prisoners and protested the Vietnam War.

Popular Recognition:

The need to forgive is widely recognized by the public, but they are often at a loss for ways to accomplish it. For example, in a large representative sampling of American people on various religious topics in 1988, the Gallup Organization found that 94% said it was important to forgive, but 85% said they needed some outside help to be able to forgive.

However, not even regular prayer was found to be effective. Akin to forgiveness is mercy, so even if a person is not able to complete the forgiveness process he or she can still show mercy, especially when so many wrongs are done out of weakness rather than malice. The Gallup poll revealed that the only thing that was effective was "meditative prayer".[32]

So the question becomes... Is forgiveness a choice?

"The only way to peace is forgiveness. To accept and give forgiveness makes possible a new quality of rapport between men, interrupts the spiral of hatred and revenge and breaks the chains of evil which bind the hearts of rivals."

Pope John Paul II

1. Parable of the Great Banquet

Luke 14:15-24

15 Now when one of those who sat at the table with Him heard these things, he said to Him, "Blessed is he who shall eat bread[a] in the kingdom of God!"

16 Then He said to him, "A certain man gave a great supper and invited many, 17 and sent his servant at supper time to say to those who were invited, 'Come, for all things are now ready.' 18 But they all with one accord began to make excuses. The first said to him, 'I have bought a piece of ground, and I must go and see it. I ask you to have me excused.' 19 And another said, 'I have bought five yoke of oxen, and I am going to test them. I ask you to have me excused.' 20 Still another said, 'I have married a wife, and therefore I cannot come.' 21 So that servant came and reported these things to his master. Then the master of the house, being angry, said to his servant, 'Go out quickly into the streets and lanes of the city, and bring in here the poor and the maimed and the lame and the blind.' 22 And the servant said, 'Master, it is done as you commanded, and still there is room.' 23 Then the master said to the servant, 'Go out into the highways and hedges, and compel them to come in, that my house may be filled. 24 For I say to you that none of those men who were invited shall taste my supper.'"

Principle: How charitable are we?

The Reflection:

In "the City" in London, England's Wall Street, there is an old saying, "My word is my bond," which indicates that trust and knowing who you are doing business with is core to how the world of finance should work. In that same financial district, there is an annual banquet held in the grand Mansion House, where the key speaker is the British finance minister - a time when politics and finance rub shoulders for an evening. Every day in the City and on Wall Street, business lunches are held to seal a business deal or woo a journalist. Meals are important. We read in the society pages of newspapers and in glossy magazines about charity dinners; and we have fundraising dinners in our local churches. Dinners are set out for thousands of dollars or just a few dollars, allowing people to mix their social life with giving to charitable causes. There are any number ofreasons to "break bread."

The Secret of Great Relationships

Al Ritter

"Would you rather be right, or would you rather be happy and effective?" Relationships surround us, confound us, and sometimes lead us to our defeat. We're immersed in them 24/7. At home, at work and everywhere in between, each encounter with another person is a relationship in which we can present our best self... or not. The truth is, good, effective relationships make almost everything more enjoyable and more advantageous.

Think about the way you interact with others, about the way you approach relationships; about your expectations and assumptions. Are you unconsciously sabotaging yourself? Are you standing in the way of your own success?

This book aims to help you recognize certain relationship pitfalls, learn how to overcome them, and make every relationship great. Not only will you enjoy this book, but our prediction is it will significantly, and fairly easily, change your life for the better!

Written for all members of the human race, no matter your role in this world, or for that matter, your age; you will gain a clear way to improve your personal and professional effectiveness. Is your relationship with others based primarily on your judgment of them, either positive or negative? If you answered "yes," thank you for being honest. The truth, for most of us, is that our treatment of other people is derived from our judgment of them, that is, whether we perceive them as right or wrong; whether we agree or disagree with them.

Sometimes the tendency to judge others is appropriate. We want to be able to accurately assess others in situations such as the hiring process, giving performance reviews, and being alert to problematic people, to name just a few.

There are many other times, however, when our tendency to judge creates a great disservice to ourselves and others. When it comes to family, friends, family, coworkers and customers, our relationship is more important (in fact, much more important) than our assessment of how right or wrong the other person is. In these circumstances, it behooves us to take 100% responsibility for the relationship, expecting nothing in return.

The genesis of this book comes from 20-plus years of coaching, consulting, writing and speaking. I have learned that the most effective people at all levels and in all walks of life take full advantage of The 100/0 Principle. And you can too.

"Some of the biggest challenges in relationships come from the fact that most people enter a relationship in order to get something: They're trying to find someone who's going to make them feel good. In reality, the only way a relationship will last is if you see your relationship as a place that you go to give, and not a place you go to take."

Anthony Robbins

4 Principles of Listening

• Listening grants others the power of speaking.

• Listening is a gift. Be generous with it.

• What we listen to is more important than what we say.

• Communication is what is heart, not what is said.

Why is Listening so Difficult for so Many?

Here are some insights compiled by the International Listening Association:

• Most of us are distracted, preoccupied or forgetful about 75% of the time we should be listening.

• We listen at 125-250 words per minute, but think at 1,000-3,000 words per minute.

• Immediately after we listen to someone, we only recall about 50% of what he or she said.

• Long term, we only remember 20% of what we hear.

Listening has been identified as one of the top skills employers seek in entry-level employees as well as those being promoted. More than 35 business studies indicate that listening is a top skill needed for success in business.

Application:

1. Many times people will offer excuses which sometimes can be insulting to you

2. Here is the key:

Do not be like the leader in this story, who became angry before making his next decision, which was to invite others.

3. The third principle is to go out and not be afraid to invite others.

2. The Parable of the Pharisee and the Tax Collector

Luke 18:9-14

9 Also He spoke this parable to some who trusted in themselves that they were righteous, and despised others: 10 "Two men went up to the temple to pray, one a Pharisee and the other a tax collector. 11 The Pharisee stood and prayed thus with himself, 'God, I thank You that I am not like other men-extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even as this tax collector. 12 I fast twice a week; I give tithes of all that I possess.' 13 And the tax collector, standing afar off, would not so much as raise his eyes to heaven, but beat his breast, saying, 'God, be merciful to me a sinner!' 14 I tell you, this man went down to his house justified rather than the other; for everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted."

Principle: Do not let pride disqualify you from discovering your LIFE PURPOSES. John Maxwell

Commitment: The Rich Young Ruler Fails the Test

{Luke 18:18-23)

When a rich young man approached Jesus to ask about eternal life, the Lord gave him a radical imperative: Sell all you possess and five it to the poor, then come and follow Me.

Jesus didn't say this to everyone. In fact, He said it only to His disciples. He knew this man needed the challenge, even though he refused to accept it. Only greed held him back from freedom. Even though he claimed to obey all the commands, he miserably failed at the first one: "You shall have no other gods before Me" (Ex. 20:3).

Jesus went straight to the central issue, preventing him from making a commitment he desperately needed to make. The man walked away, full of sadness. He clung to what he had instead of committing to what he could obtain.

Introduction:

Jesus often used the Pharisees as an example. Their approach is opposite to the everyday appeal of the parables. This parable asks us to examine our pride. It also raises the question of giving and whether doing all the "right" things is what makes us better people. We abdicate our responsibility to others when we feel we are above others and have overcome our sinful nature.

The Reflection:

Augustine suggested that government is merely an act of piracy on a grand scale. He asked, "Justice being taken away, then, what are kingdoms but great robberies? For what are robberies themselves, but little kingdoms?" To theologians and church leaders wishing to hitch the gospel to a political agenda, this must sound like the ultimate heresy by the early father. It has become almost an article of faith that welfare and entitlement programs are the means to achieve the Good Society. Thus it is no longer considered correct to think the individual needs to be transformed. It is a little ironic that the state, which put Jesus to death, is seen as the focus of good in our lives.

In modern times, the state has become the instrument of social engineering. The state is in a battle against the "anarchy" of the free market, which can only do good under the benevolent oversight of the state. Perhaps the unfortunate truth is that pragmatic economics and free markets are the most effective because they are based on what we are like. If we function out of rampant consumerism, then this is reflected in the economy. The economy is merely a measure of how self-absorbed we really are, holding up a mirror to our modern civilization and revealing its vanity. We could point to the Genesis narrative and suggest there is an economic effect of original sin, which stops us from enjoying the Planners's garden of Eden and banishes us to the harsh realities of the economic pursuit of gain. Thus we live in the "solitary, poor, nasty, brutish, and short" state of existence warned of by the seventeenth-century British philosopher Thomas Hobbes.

The Pharisee, meanwhile, stands tall in his piety, telling God how good he is at keeping the faith. How often we see this pharisaic behavior on our televisions as people tell us how right their actions are and inform us of how we can build a better tomorrow. Humanity is exalted in this moment, and the people stand tall at how we can deliver ourselves. Again we meet one of Jesus' great reversals. For the exalted shall be humbled: the plans of mice and men! How often do we see the great and the good of our society admit to their mistakes or humble themselves as people who are short of God's demands? Jesus tells us of his reversal: The humble shall be exalted.

Those who delight in the praise of their actions, who do good to feel good, will only be exalted in their own eyes and perhaps the eyes of other people, but not before God. Before God, they shall be humbled. This is a text that betrays any idea that we can be saved by our own merit. We cannot work our way to a place at the Lord's table. Those who tread such a path have taken the wrong route. If we want to take the right route, we have to be like the tax collector: humbling ourselves to face God's judgment. Then we shall receive the greatest recognition of all, the gift of grace given to us by God. Like the tax collector, we can then have our prayers answered, our plea accepted. Only then can we take the right path, the one that carries us home to our Lord. As the humbled, we shall be exalted.

The elites of our society are the Pharisees of our modern economy. They "know" what is best for everyone else.

Many people are invited to the banquet in the parable, and initially they accept; but when the final invitations are presented, they have other priorities and so provide nothing but excuses - and not even good ones at that! One says he needs to inspect some land he has bough, but do you think he would have bought such land without seeing it first? A second says he has bought five yoke of oxen, but how many farmers or landowners would buy so much stock unseen? The third one is a little different, saying that he cannot come because he has just gotten married. This excuse takes us back to and Old Testament exemption from military service (Deuteronomy 10:7, 24:5), but does this apply to a generous invitation to a feast? These are excuses that are tied to love of possessions and family and are to be put aside in our love of God.

Conclusion: I believe the real point of this story is

Do not let pride disqualify you from helping others whether it be in your

1. Personal life

2. Family life

3. Business life

4. Educational life Remember to PAY IT FORWARD

Application:

"A man wrapped up in himself makes a very small bundle."

Benjamin Franklin

"We make a living by what we get. We make a life by what we give." Winston Churchill

King Solomon Proverbs 16:18-19

18 Pride goes before destruction, And a haughty spirit before a fall.

19 Better to be of a humble spirit with the lowly, Than to divide the spoil with the proud.

"It is amazing what you can accomplish if you do not care who gets the credit." President Truman

Mother Teresa

"If you judge people, you have not time to love them." "Do not wait for leaders; do it alone, person to person."

Mother Teresa founded the Missionaries of Charity, a Roman Catholic religious congregation, which in 2012 consisted of over 4,500 sisters and is active in 133 countries. Members of the order must adhere to the vows of chastity, poverty and obedience, and the fourth vow, to give "Wholehearted and Free service to the poorest of the poor." The Missionaries of Charity at the time of her death had 610 missions in 123 countries, including hospices and homes for people with HIV/AIDS, leprosy and tuberculosis; soup kitchens; children's and family counseling programs; orphanages; and schools. For over 45 years, she ministered to the poor, sick, orphaned, and dying, while guiding the Missionaries of Charity's expansion, first throughout India and then in other countries. Her beautification by Pope John Paul II following her death gave her the title "Blessed Teresa of Calcutta." She was the recipient of numerous honors including th3 1979 Nobel Peace Prize. She refused the conventional ceremonial banquet given to laureates, and asked that the $192,000 funds be given to the poor in India.

How About Orphans?

There are an estimated 153,000,000 orphans worldwide. Some of these orphans have lost one parent, some both, and some are "virtual" orphans that have been turned onto the streets by their families, but all are vulnerable and in need of help. Without assistance these orphans continue in the cycle of poverty, HIV/AIDS, trafficking, prostitution and slavery that haunts developing countries.

George Muller Orphanages

The work of Muller and his wife with orphans began in 1836 with the preparation of their own home at 6 Wilson Street, Bristol for the accommodation of thirty girls. Soon after, three more houses in Wilson Street were furnished, growing the total of children cared for to 130. In 1845, as growth continued, Muller decided that a separate building designed to house 300 children was necessary, and in 1849, at Ashley Down, Bristol, that home opened. The architect commissioned to draw up the plans asked if he might do so gratuitously. By 26 May 1870, 1,722 children were being accommodated in five homes, although there was room for 2,050 (No 1 House - 300, No 2 House - 400, Nos 3, 4 and 5 - 450 each). By the following

year, there were 280 orphans in No 1 House, 356 in No 2, 450 in Nos 3 and 4, and 309 in No 5 House. By the end of his life, he had cared for 10, 024 orphans, and educated over 120,000.

Through all this, Millier never made requests for financial support, nor did he go into debt, even though the five homes cost over £100,000 to build. Many times, he received unsolicited food donations only hours before they were needed to feed the children, further strengthening his faith in God. For example, on one well-documented occasion, they gave thanks for breakfast when all the children were sitting at the table, even though there was nothing to eat in the house. As they finished praying, the baker knocked on the door with sufficient fresh bread to feed everyone, and the milkman gave them plenty of fresh milk because his cart broke down in front of the orphanage.

By the end of February 1835, there were five Day-schools - two for boys and three for girls. Not receiving government support and only accepting unsolicited gifts, this organization received and disbursed £1,381,171 (approximately$2,718,844 USD) - around £90 million in today's terms - by the end of Muller's death, primarily using the money for supporting the orphanages and distributing about 285,407 Bibles, 1,459,506 New Testaments, and 244,351 other religious texts, which were translated into twenty other languages. The money was also used to support other "faith missionaries" around the world, such as Hudson Taylor.

The work continues to this day.

3. The Parable of the Unjust Steward

(sometimes called The Shrewd Manager)

Luke 16:1-14

Principle: How do we use wealth? Luke 16:1-14

1 He also said to His disciples: "There was a certain rich man who had a steward, and an accusation was brought to him that this man was wasting his goods.

2 So he called him and said to him, 'What is this I hear about you? Give an account of your stewardship, for you can no longer be steward.'

3 "Then the steward said within himself, 'What shall I do? For my master is taking the stewardship away from me. I cannot dig; I am ashamed to beg. 4 I have resolved what to do, that when I am put out of the stewardship, they may receive me into their houses.'

5 "So he called every one of his master's debtors to him, and said to the first, 'How much do you owe my master?' 6 And he said, 'A hundred measures[a] of oil.' So he said to him, 'Take your bill, and sit down quickly and write fifty.' 7 Then he said to another, 'And how much do you owe?' So he said, 'A hundred measures[b] of wheat.' And he said to him, 'Take your bill, and write eighty.' 8 So the master commended the unjust steward because he had dealt shrewdly. For the sons of this world are more shrewd in their generation than the sons of light.

9 "And I say to you, make friends for yourselves by unrighteous mammon, that when you fail,[c] they may receive you into an everlasting home. 10 He who is faithful in what is least is faithful also in much; and he who is unjust in what is least is unjust also in much.

11 Therefore if you have not been faithful in the unrighteous mammon, who will commit to your trust the true riches?12 And if you have not been faithful in what is another man's, who will give you what is your own?

13 "No servant can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, or else he will be loyal to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and mammon." 14 Now the Pharisees, who were lovers of money, also heard all these things, and they derided Him.

16:1-8 People have offered many explanations for this difficult story. Here are some of them: (1) Don't waste the resources you have because they belong to God, not you. (2) Money can be used for good or evil; use yours for good. (3) Money has a lot of power, so use it carefully and thoughtfully. (4) We must use our material goods in a way that will help us in the next life (see Luke 12:33, 34).

16:10, 11 Our integrity often meets its match in money matters. God calls us to be honest even in small details we could rationalize away. Heaven's riches are far more valuable than earthly wealth - but ifwe are untrustworthy with our earthly wealth (no matter how much or little we have), we are unfit to handle the vast riches of God's Kingdom. Don't let your integrity slip in small matters, and it will not fail you in crucial decisions either.

16:13 Money has the power to take God's place in your life. It can become your master. How can you tell if you are a slave to money? (1) Do you worry about it frequently? (2) Do you give up doing what you should do or would like to do in order to make more money? (3) Do you spend a great deal of your time caring for your possessions? (4) Is it hard for you to give money away? (5) Are you in debt?

Money is a hard master and a deceptive one. Money promises power and control, but it often cannot deliver. Great fortunes can be made - and lost - overnight, and no amount of money can provide health, happiness, or eternal life. How much better to let God be your master.

His servants have peace of mind and security both now and forever.

16:14 The Pharisees loved money and took exception with Jesus' teaching. We too may be fond of our money. Do we also scoff at Jesus' wa

nings against serving money? Do we try to explain them away? Do we apply them to someone else - the Pharisees, for example? Unless we take Jesus' statements seriously, we may be acting like Pharisees ourselves.

16:15 The Pharisees acted pious to get praise from others, but God knew what was in their hearts. Is your spirituality genuine, or is it merely aimed at impressing others? Remember, that which is only a show for the general public is disgusting to God.

Introduction:

This parable calls us to discern the difference between the negative force of greed and the positive force of faithful and honest self-interest. At the end of the parable, Jesus poses one of the most difficult economic points in the Bible; we cannot sere both God and wealth. Money is an inevitable reality of living in the world, and as such it can be used wisely - as long as it comes second to our relationship with God.

The Reflection:

The front-page headlines scream out at us: Corporate greed! Scandal! Enron!

Worldcom! How comforting it must be for the media (and it can be for us, their readership) to be able to point to greed and say, "Aha!That's why it's wrong! It's big business!" Doing this, we place the blame somewhere else and let ourselves off the hook In buying newspaper, we purchase our peace of mind. In mouthing the condemnation, we seek absolution.

Yes, there is corporate greed, but greed is not exclusive to the world of business and finance. There is also greed in governments, charities, interest groups, churches, schools, and universities. There is greed anywhere there are people. It may be greed fOrcareer, for money, for power, for position, or for glory. It is all about us and what we want.

Ever since capitalism developed in the eighteenth century, it has had its critics. Today this criticism takes the form of anti-globalization activism, which is also the basis of intellectual criticism of capitalism. The protestors and intellectuals behave as if their identification and indictment of human greed is something new. But it isn't; it is ancient history. They are simply wrong. Greed is often confused with self-interest, which is the

catalyst for the free market economy. Whether individuals, communities, governments, or businesses, we all act in our self-interest - and we need to understand what this reality means.

John Maxwell:

Lessons from a Lousy Leader

(Luke 16:1-13)

Jesus' story of an unrighteous manager teaches us lessons about shrewd business and a few subtle truths about leadership. This lousy leader...

l. Violated rule number one: Leadership is not to be used for personal benefit (v. 1). He forgot that leadership is about giving, not getting. Leaders lose the right to be selfish.

2. Learned that a leader cannot hide his heart (vv. 1, 2).

Leadership rises or falls to the level of the leader's integrity. Leaders are vulnerable.

3. Was proactive in facing problems (v. 3).

He surmised how he could address the problem. Good leaders aren't afraid to face reality.

4. Understood the value of relationships (v. 4).

He utilized the relationships he had developed already. He received a return on his investment.

5. Understood the nature of his influence (vv. 4, 5).

Since leadership is influence, leaders know with whom they have influence - and they go there.

6. Learned the keys to motivating others (vv. 5-7).

Everyone is motivated in different ways. He found wys to make friends and get results.

7. Reminds us of the value of godly leadership (vv. 8-10).

In the end, his master praised his shrewdness; but Jesus has a deeper lesson for us.

Meditation: Do you make good use of your money and possessions Jesus seemed to praise a steward (a manager entrusted with his master's goods) who misused his employer's money. What did the steward do that made Jesus praise him? The steward was responsible for managing his wealth landowner's property. He very likely overcharged his master's tenants for their use of the land and kept more than his fair share of the commission. When the landowner discovers the steward's dishonest practice he immediately removes him from his job, leaving him penniless and ashamed to beg or do manual work. Before news of his dismissal becomes public knowledge, the shrewd steward strikes a deal with his master' s debts. In discounting their debts he probably was giving up his generous commission. Such a deal won him great favor with debtors since he acted as the landowner's chief financial officer, such a deal made his master look very generous and forgiving towards those who owed him money. Surely everyone would praise such a generous landowner as the town hero! Since the master could not undo the steward's cancellation of the debts without losing face and making his debtors resent him, the praises the steward for outwitting him as a generous and merciful landowner.

Jesus obviously thought that the example of a very clever steward would be a perfect illustration for a spiritual lesson about the kingdom of God! What's the point of Jesus' parable? The dishonest steward is commended not for mishandling his master's wealth, but for his shrewd provision in averting personal disaster and in securing his future livelihood. The original meaning of "shrewdness" is "foresight". A shrewd person grasps a critical situation with resolution, foresight, and the determination to avoid serious loss or disaster. Jesus is concerned here with something more critical than a financial crisis. His concern is that we avert spiritual crisis and personal disaster through exercise of faith and foresight. If Christians would only expend as much foresight and energy to spiritual matters which have eternal consequences as much as they do to earthly matters which have temporal consequences, then they would be truly better off, both in this life and in the age to come.

Application:

This story has a couple of meanings for application to our own personal situation. I suggest that the key point is the generous nature of the businessman.

Kenneth E. Bailey tells the story this way:

When the steward asks the first debtor, "How much do you owe my master?" he is not asking for information. A Middle Eastern estate manager has the accounts in his possession. The question is the opening move in the discussion between the steward and the debtor to insure that they agree on the amount of indebtedness. If the farmer quotes the same figure that is written on the steward's documents, they can proceed. If not, the figure will need to be debated. In a world where documentary evidence is limited, few people can read and oral tradition is honored, such niceties must be observed.

The debts and the reductions are enormous. Fifty measures of oil was worth about five hundred denari, which was the wage for a farm worker for a year and a half. The second renter receives roughly the same reduction even thought the percentage is different. It is in the steward's interest to have the debtors do the writing. He wants the changes in their handwriting recorded so that anyone looking at the accounts will recognize the handwriting and know that the renters have been contacted and have accepted in writing.

Each debtor makes the suggested changes in his rental agreement and returns to the village to share the "public" good news with family and friends. As word spreads in the village a festive mood breaks out in celebration of the most generous man who ever rented land in the history of the village and in praise of his steward who convinced the master to make huge reductions in their rents.

When the interviews are finished, the steward gathers the recently altered accounts and with a cat-that-ate-that-canary smile surrenders them to the master. The master takes the accounts, notes the changes recorded in the handwritings of his closest business associates and quickly considers his options. He is faced with two choices.

First, legally he can go to the village and explain that the reductions were not authorized, the steward had been fired at the time he made them, indeed he had no legal right to do anything, and the original amounts must be paid in full. But such an action would turn the party in progress that was praising his generosity, in to a gripe session attaching him as unreasonable and unfair. Or, second, the master can remain quiet, pay the price of this clever rascal's salvation and continue to enjoy his reputation as a generous man, which is enhanced by this ruse but not created by it. He is a generous man because he dismissed the steward but did not jail him. Furthermore, he could have sold the steward and his family as slaves to recoup his losses, yet he did not. His generous nature led him to refrain from both actions.

In the light of the extraordinary grace that he had just received, the steward decides to risk everything on one role of the dice. He builds his ruse on the basis of his unshakable awareness of the generous nature of his master. He "sins that grace might abound." As we will see, he is condemned for his action and praised for his confidence in his master's gracious nature. The steward succeeds. The community will discover the details and will be amazed at his intelligence and daring. They will not trust him but will nonetheless employ him on the basis that such a clever fellow "must work for us and not them." Abraham Lincoln wanted those in opposition to him to work for him, not for his opponents. He also wanted to keep them in sight and under close scrutiny. He knew that they had ability. In our parable, the community will employ the steward for the same reasons. (After all - he did make them a lot of money - but don't breathe a word!)

The master pays the price of the steward's salvation and commends him for his mental agility.

4. Parable of the Talents

Matthew 25:14-30

14 "For the kingdom of heaven is like a man traveling to a far country, who called his own servants and delivered his goods to them.15 And to one he gave five talents, to another two, and to another one, to each according to his own ability; and immediately he went on a journey. 16 Then he who had received the five talents went and traded with them, and made another five talents. 17 And likewise he who had received two gained two more also.18 But he who had received one went and dug in the ground, and hid his lord's money. 19 After a long time the lord of those servants came and settled accounts with them.

20 "So he who had received five talents came and brought five other talents, saying, 'Lord, you delivered to me five talents; look, I have gained five more talents besides them.' 21 His lord said to him, 'Well done, good and faithful servant; you were faithful over a few things, I will make you ruler over many things. Enter into the joy of your lord.' 22 He also who had received two talents came and said, 'Lord, you delivered to me two talents; look, I have gained two more talents besides them.' 23 His lord said to him, 'Well done, good and faithful servant; you have been faithful over a few things, I will make you ruler over many things. Enter into the joy of your lord.'

24 "Then he who had received the one talent came and said, 'Lord, I knew you to be a hard man, reaping where you have not sown, and gathering where you have not scattered seed. 25 And I was afraid, and went and hid your talent in the ground. Look, there you have what is yours.'

26 "But his lord answered and said to him, 'You wicked and lazy servant, you knew that I reap where I have not sown, and gather where I have not scattered seed. 27 So you ought to have deposited my money with the bankers, and at my coming I would have received back my own with interest. 28 Therefore take the talent from him, and give it to him who has ten talents.

29 'For to everyone who has, more will be given, and he will have abundance; but from him who does not have, even what he has will be taken away. 30 And cast the unprofitable servant into the outer darkness. There will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.'

Principle: Creating abundance requires you to move beyond fear. If you do not you will likely bury your talents.

Meditation: What can economics and productivity teach us about the kingdom of Heaven? Jesus' story about a businessman who leaves town and entrusts his money and his workers made perfect sense to his audience. Wealthy merchants and businessmen often had to travel abroad and leave the business to others to handle while they were gone. Why did Jesus tell this story? Most importantly it tells us something about how God deals with us, his servants. The parable speaks first of the Master's trust in his servants. While he goes away he leaves them with his money to use as they think best. While there were no strings attached, this was obviously a test to see if the Master's workers would be industrious and reliable in their use of the money entrusted to them. Third, the master rewards those who are industrious and faithful and he punishes those who sit by idly and who do nothing with his money. The essence of the parable seems to lie in the servants' conception of responsibility. Each servant

entrusted with the master's money was faithful up to a certain point. The servant who buried the master's money was irresponsible. One can bury seeds in the ground and expect them to become productive because they obey natural laws. Coins, however, do not obey natural laws. They obey economic laws and become productive in circulation. The master expected his servants to be productive in the use of his money. What do coins and the law of economics have to do with the kingdom of God? The Lord entrusts the subjects of his kingdom with gifts and graces and he gives his subjects the freedom to use them as they think best. With each gift and talent, God gives sufficient the means (grace and wisdom) for using them in a fitting way. As the parable of the talents shows, God abhors indifference and an attitude that says it's not worth trying. God honors those who use their talents and gifts for doing good. Those who are faithful with even a little are entrusted with more! But those who neglect or squander what God has entrusted to them will lose what they have. There is an important lesson here for us. No one can stand still for long in the Christian life. We either get more or we lose what we have. We either advance towards God or we slip back. Do you earnestly seek to serve with the gifts, talents, and graces he has given to you?

"Lord, be the ruler of my heart and thoughts, be the king of my home and relationships, and be the master of my work and service. Help me to make good use of the gifts, talents, time, and resources you give me for your glory and your kingdom."

The Parable of the Talents

Steve Pavlina

Traditionally, the parable of the talents has been seen as an exhortation to Jesus' disciples to use their God-given gifts in the service of God, and to take risks for the sake of the Kingdom of God. These gifts have been seen to include personal abilities ("talents" in the everyday sense), as well as personal wealth. Failure to use one's gifts, the parable suggests, will result in judgment.

First, we're all given a different starting position. Some of us are born into abundance (five talents). Others are born into scarcity (one talent). But what matters isn't what we're given - it's what we do with it that matters. So Jesus acknowledges the unfairness of life, but he also suggests that our starting conditions are irrelevant. One person earns five talents, another earns only two, but both are congratulated equally because both achieved a 100% gain. (I'd sure like to know where those servants invested their money!)

This is also a good lesson in how to deal with other human beings. Deal with other people based on their starting positions, and evaluate yourself by your own starting position. If you happen to be one of those who receives five talents, don't pat yourself on the back that you're already above average. If you have abundant talents, you should expect even more from yourself. Similarly, there may be times in your life where you only have one talent and do the best you can with it, and even though your gains appear small from an external standard, by Jesus' standard you've still made a notable accomplishment. I wrote about this previously in Raise Your Standards.

Another interesting aspect of the parable is that our talents are entrusted to us, like a master putting money into the care of his servants. We are stewards of our wealth, and I define wealth very loosely here, well beyond material possessions. For example, if I can write and speak fairly well, those are talents entrusted to me. I can bury them in the ground out of fear, or I can push out of my shell and strive to create increase for all.

One thing I wonder about the parable is this: What would have happened if one of the servants who invested the money realized a loss instead of a gain? There's a clue to how Jesus would have answered this because of how the master addressed the third servant: "You wicked, lazy servant!" Later the master refers to that servant as "worthless" and has him physically thrown out. That's pretty harsh language considering the servant still gave the master all his money back Is Jesus saying that inaction is wicked? Yes, I believe so. In other words, if you do nothing with your talents... if you hide them in the ground and hoard them, you are choosing to be wicked, lazy, and worthless. You are supposed to invest what you've been given. Don't be lazy.

Another clue is how the first two servants are praised. The master praises them for being "faithful." Very interesting. It would have been different if the master praised them for being shrewd or effective or profitable. But the praise is given for their faith, not for their results.

Given the language (and hopefully my points still work with non-English versions of this scripture), I conclude that if one of the servants had invested money and lost some or all of it, they would still have been praised for their faithfulness. However, given that Jesus doesn't directly address this condition in the parable, he may also be suggesting that faith itself is the path to success - a common theme in his other teachings. So perhaps if you use your talents faithfully, you aren't really going to lose.

Another notable quality of the parable is the lack of competition. The servants aren't competing with each other for their master's favor. It's not a zero-sum game. The first two servants both contribute something of value to their master's estate.

What's the ultimate reward for the faithful servants? Although Jesus doesn't explicitly say it, it seems obvious they don't get to keep the money. The two successful servants aren't even working for their own increase. It's not their money. They're working for the increase of their master, and they share in the increase to his estate. Their true reward is to share in their master's happiness. So happiness is the reward, and happiness comes from serving others.

I know from experience that if I undertake some action to create increase only for myself, there's very little energy to it, and it doesn't usually increase my happiness. But if I focus on creating increase for others (such as by helping people grow), then I feel great joy in doing that, and it ultimately creates increase for me too.

But there's more to it than that. Happiness is a quality that I inject into my work, not something I derive from it. When I work only for myself, I'm looking for happiness outside myself. Trying to achieve happiness that way doesn't work But when I work for others' benefit and turn off WIIFM for a while (What's In It For Me?), I tap into the deep wells of happiness that are already inside me. Instead of trying to achieve happiness, I happily

achieve. Happiness flows outward from me and into the work I do, so I experience it as an outflow, not an inflow.

Happiness is something you exhale, not something you inhale. Are you one of those people who must say, "Yes, Senator, I had a supply of happiness in my gut, but I did not exhale?"

As Jesus implies in The Parable of the Talents, creating abundance requires you to move beyond fear. If you're too fearful or suspicious or distrustful, you're going to bury your talents. And this leads to "weeping and gnashing of teeth," i.e. sorrow and depression.

You might think that fear and suspicion will keep you out of trouble, but really they'll just cause you suffering and pain. You don't need fear to avoid being a gullible idiot; for that you just need common sense. To live a life of abundance, you must ultimately move beyond fear and work to create abundance for others. Otherwise you'll ultimately be cast out as worthless. Jesus doesn't pull any punches here, youse bums.

Serve to create increase for others, and happiness is your reward. Bury your talents, and you get "weeping and gnashing of teeth." The choice is yours.

And that's my parablog for the day.

Application:

This simple story makes some interesting points that are applicable to the pursuit of personal development.

Begin in 2 Areas:

1. The Power of Attitude

Mac Anderson:

Destiny is not a matter of chance, it is a matter of choice. It is not a thing to be waited for, it is a thing to be achieved. In many ways, we're alike; however, one little difference almost always makes a big difference. The little difference is attitude.

William James, over a century ago, said, "The greatest discovery of this generation is that a human being can alter their life by altering their attitude." I believe this with all my heart, and over the years have seen it happen countless times. What most people fail to realize is that your attitude not only impacts your happiness and your success, it also can impact the happiness and success of all the people around you... your family, your friends, and your peers at work. Attitudes truly are contagious, and from time to time we need to ask ourselves... "is mine worth catching?"

There is no way to overstate the importance of a positive attitude in your life. However, no one can underestimate the difficulty in maintaining it. It's not easy, and it's a very personal thing, but it can be done.

The Power of Attitude was written with that in mind. I only can share with your what works for me in....

2. "The secret to living is giving."

B.I. Gallagher

I discovered that when I give my time, my attention, my money, my thoughtfulness to another- I feel wonderful.

When I gave my friend the benefit of the doubt, I felt compassionate.

In giving,

we generate warmth.

In giving,

we feel connected;

In giving,

we discover love.

When I gave my subway seat to an old lady,

I felt kind.

When I dropped a dollar

into the street musician's hat, I felt generous.

When I wrote a check to a worthy cause,

I felt virtuous.

When I lent a hand to someone at work,

I felt a part of the team.

When I brought a meal to my grieving neighbor,

I felt empathetic.

When I gave some water to a thirsty dog,

I felt happy.

When I let a harried driver cut in front of me on the road,

I felt patient.

"It's better to give than receive," my mother used to say.

But it took some years to experience

before I fully understood what she meant.

Make it a Purpose to Know Your Purpose:

David Zerfoss

My good friend and author, Kevin McCarthy, wrote two books titled, The On-Purpose Person and The On-Purpose Business. They have both been a key component of my business and personal life. In fact, every new vendor and every new employee I met with in the past ten years received a copy of these books form me. In The On-Purpose Person, Kevin artfully illustrates how each of us has a unique purpose in life. Our purpose is our heart andsoul. It's who we are and why we exist. When we are "on-purpose" we are at our best, we are in the zone; we feel energized. We have meaning. When we are off-purpose, we can become stressed.

Whether your business life is overly complicate or your personal life (or both),you have chosen this current system of chaos. The world is a tantalizing swirl of getting the next ''fix," tempting us to fit more and more things, people and processes into our lives, personally and professionally. And because we are so busy being busy, it's easy to be lured into the fray, with our lengthy to-do lists. Yet, the greatest achievements have often come from the simplest of ideas and in the simplest forms.

To experience life, we first have to learn to slow down long enough to see through all the clutter. We need to realize that we are powerful magnets that attracted this life to ourselves - no matter what - good or bad.

Some Questions to Ask Yourself:

1. If you were designed for a reason, what do you think your unique role is?

2. What are your truly passionate about? What lights you up?

3. Do you have a mentor who helps guide you in your work or personal life?

4. How was holding on to your past put limits on your future?

5. What might you need to leave behind or let go of in order to move forward into the future?

6. Is there a situation or a conversation from the past that you need to deal with in the present in order to move on to your future?

7. What challenges are you facing today?

8. Is your attitude a powerful match for them?

9. Who is your hero in life?

The Reflection:

We have often stopped along the path that these parables have taken us to consider what "a rich man" is in reality. In the time of Jesus the rich were a small minority indeed, and the poor were all around. Today's economy is quite different, since in the West the vast majority of us are comparatively rich - even ifwe don't always feel that way! Despite widespread poverty in the less developed countries, there are many who are rich, and there is great potential for increased wealth.

Much of Europe, including the leading capitalist economy of Britain, once had poverty like that of today's lesser developed economies. Today, because economic wealth can be achieved by good economic management, these poor nations themselves have greater possibilities for their tomorrow. Yet it seems so often that state planning or political will are supposed to triumph while commerce is denied its role as the driver of economic success. This is a little like asking your medical doctor to unclog your sink. Perhaps he can do it, but he doesn't have professional skills to offer in this area. Likewise, good economics and commercial management are the way to create economic wealth. Political will can help by not hindering commerce and by not putting red tape and bureaucracy in the way of people trying to be entrepreneurial. Political will in these countries can also help by stamping out corruption in their dealings.

When we see poverty in our communities or elsewhere in the world, we cannot help but contrast this with our own wealth. However, we can also look up the social scale and feel our own lack of wealth compared to others. Perhaps we can sometimes feel that little tinge of envy. If we do not appreciate how wealthy we are in reality, then we feel we ought to have more. To a greater or lesser extent, there is a little envy in all of us. Wealth and poverty touches our feelings in different ways. If we help the poor, then we can feel good about ourselves and feel empowered in some way, perhaps unaware of the sense that the poor have in fact become an object to us. This is not to sound cynical about all our actions; it is to point out that there is an element of these unwanted feelings within us, whether we like it or not.

There was no such struggle in the heart of the rich man in our parable, since he was completely disinterested in the poor man. (I will note here that some Bible interpreters have questioned if this passage truly is a parable. Such issues aren't germane to...

Can it not be that God has given us the mechanism of the market and economics to organize our complex global population, just as he has given us science to cure disease? Such an argument is usually immediately scoffed at, but why? Robert Nozick's suggestion that it is because intellectuals resent the fact that the market economy does not recognize their worth may equally apply to theologians and church leaders. For this reason, theologians and church leaders rally against capitalism, rather than follow the biblical example evident throughout the discussion of these economic parables. Jesus was more pragmatic in his view, but then again he was a carpenter and not a Pharisee or church leader.

In the parables we have studied together, Jesus took everyday examples from nature and mundane life to explain how great and wonderful is the kingdom of God. He would start by saying something like "The kingdom of God is like...," which resonates or strikes a chord in our nature because everything comes from God. Thus, we can see God at work in the economy. In a negative sense, this goes back to the beginning and the banishment of Adam: "The man has now become like one of us, knowing good and evil. He must not be allowed to reach out his hand and take also from the tree of life and eat, and live forever. So the LORD God banished him from the Garden of Eden to work the ground from which he had been taken" (Genesis 3:22-23).

"Good morals are good economics." Peter Daniels

5. Parable of the Leaven

"Another parable He spoke to them: 'The kingdom of Heaven is like leaven, which a woman took and hid in three measures of meal till it was all leavened."

Matthew 13:33; Luke 13:20, 21

Principle: Leaven is a powerful agent of change. It works unseen and causes a transformation from within. A lump of dough left to itselfremains just that until leaven is added which produces growth when heated, wholesome bread which is the staple of life for mankind...

Definition: leaven = reserved for the purpose of spreading and transforming influence; leaven produces growth

Noun

1. A substance, as yeast or baking powder, that causes fermentation and expansion of dough or batter.

2. Fermented dough reserved for producing fermentation in a new batch of dough.

3. An element that produces an altering or transforming influence.

Verb (used with object)

1. To add leaven to (dough or batter) and cause to rise.

2. To permeate with an altering or transforming element.

Woman - hid (conceal) - three measures. We are made up of three parts:

• Body (sense conscious)

• Soul (self conscious; I Thessalonians 5:23)

• Spiritual (God conscious)

Physical, Emotional and Spiritual

In the baking of leavened bread, leaven, a one-called fungus, is combined with other ingredients (including flour, water and sugar) to make bread dough. When given moisture, warmth and sugar to feed on, the leaven ferments and generates bubbles of carbon dioxide throughout the dough, causing it to rise.

Sometimes it does not take a lot of leaven to bring about change. Story refers to three measures.

Leaven - it takes time to fulfill the process.

The parable of the leaven provides a message of encouragement. Remember, leaven is hidden and takes time to show growth.

Examples:

Physical - dieting to lose weight Emotional - relationships; self-worth Spiritual - time to get to know God Financial - seed planting

Application:

It takes time for leaven to work in all areas of life. Many times it takes just a little leaven (change) to make a huge difference.

"Your glorying is not good. Do you not know that a little leaven leavens the whole lump? Therefore purge out the old leaven, that you may be a new lump, since you truly are unleavened."

I Corinthians 4:6, 7

"A little leaven leavens the whole lump." Galatians 5:9

The Definition of a Goal

"A goal is a specific, measurable, and time-bound end toward which you direct specific effort until achieved!"

Gary Ryan Blair

Rule #1 - Be decisive

Rule #2 - Stay focused

Rule #3 - Write your goals

Rule #4 - Plan thoroughly

Rule #5 - Involve others

Rule #6 - Welcome failure

Rule #7 - Take purposeful action

Rule #8 - Inspect what you expect

Rule #9 - Reward yourself

Rule #10 - Maintain personal integrity

Habits Die Hard:

Mac Anderson

1. Identify and define the habit

2. Feel the habit - do not resist

3. Take measure - know the score

4. Ask why? Be curious

5. Imagine and visualize the change

6. Assess the risk

7. Be the change

8. Feel the change

9. Give thanks and appreciation

10. Maintain the gain

Conclusion: Planting the seeds of change What are your leavens?

6. Parable of the Rich Fool

Luke 12:13-21

13 Then one from the crowd said to Him, "Teacher, tell my brother to divide the inheritance with me."

14 But He said to him, "Man, who made Me a judge or an arbitrator over you?"

15 And He said to them, "Take heed and beware of covetousness,[b] for one's life does not consist in the abundance of the things he possesses."

16 Then He spoke a parable to them, saying: "The ground of a certain rich man yielded plentifully.

17 And he thought within himself, saying, 'What shall I do, since I have no room to store my crops?'

18 So he said, 'I will do this: I will pull down my barns and build greater, and there I will store all my crops and my goods.

19 And I will say to my soul, "Soul, you have many goods laid up for many years; take your ease; eat, drink, and be merry."'

20 But God said to him, 'Fool! This night your soul will be required of you; then whose will those things be which you have provided?'

21 "So is he who lays up treasure for himself, and is not rich toward God."

Principle: The things that we possess - to whom do they belong?

We all know the saying "You can't take it with you" when you pass on - Have you every wondered why?

John Maxwell

The Law of Navigation: Jesus Charts the Course for His Disciples

(Luke 12:1-59)

Jesus provided good instruction for His disciples on issues such as integrity, anxiety, convictions, problem solving, greed, jealousy, priorities, and trusting God. Why these topics? Because Jesus intended to navigate life for His followers, to teach them how to live successfully.

If we were to condense the Lord's perspective on success in life, we might say that success involves:

• Decisions: We must know the truth and accept it.

• Servanthood: We must find a need and fill it.

• Determination: We must face a challenge and meet it.

• Sacrifice: We must lose our life to find it.

• Preparation: We must develop a plan and follow it.

• Action: We must discover God's will and obey it.

• A gift: We must find our talent and share it.

Quote from David Cowan:

The setting of the parable is a man asking Jesus to rule on an inheritance dispute between himself and his brother. Most likely this was a younger brother who had a grievance against the oldest son in the family, who typically received double portion of the father's estate (see Deuteronomy 21:17). This younger brother probably wanted to collect his share and become independent, but the oldest had refused because he wanted their father's inheritance to remain together. Such disputes would usually be resolved by appeal to a rabbi. Jesus responds by asking the man where he got the idea that Jesus would resolve the matter. Jesus has in mind a much bigger issue than this one dispute.

Wanting to convey the spiritual dangers of wealth and covetousness, Jesus tells the parable of the rich fool. The rich man in this simple story has a problem: How can he store excess grain from this year's bumper crop? He is not worried about his wealth deserting him because he believes he is set for life. He has every confidence that he can enjoy his wealth, sit back, and rejoice in the plenty. He does this without regard for neighbor or God. This is an attitude of folly! God enters the story and addresses him directly, confronting him with a crisis: "You fool! This very night your life will be demanded from you."

Quote from Arland J. Hultgren:

The Parable of the Rich Fool portrays a man who is in many ways exemplary. He is a person who works, plans, saves, and seeks to protect his belongings. He expects to enjoy what he has acquired and to make his future as secure as possible.

Persons who conduct their lives in such a manner, caring for themselves and for those who depend upon them, are considered prudent and good stewards of what has been entrusted to them. Persons who give no thought to the future for themselves and their loved ones are considered reckless. There is no virtue in that manner of living. The plan fact is that some courses of life are better and wiser than others. The way of work, planning, and saving is obviously better and wiser than the way of sloth, failure to plan, and waste. The flaw that beset the rich fool, however, was not a life of work and prudence.

Instead it was that he was consumed by his possessions and that the meaning and value of his life depended upon them. The man and his possessions are so intimately tied together that they are inseparable. In English translations the personal pronoun 'T shows up six times and the possessive "my" five times ("my crops," "my barns," "my grain," "my goods," and "my soul") in the six verses of the parable (RSV, NRSV).

The parable provides an example of what one ought not to be like. The person whose identity is tied up with his or her possessions, status, and/or achievements - and is driven by acquiring them - can so easily end up unaware of the call of God and the need of the neighbor. The alternative is a life that is "rich toward God," one that is devoted to serving God daily, which includes having eyes open to the needs of others.

Jesus' Response to the Question of Covetousness

Luke 19:15

And He said to them, "Take heed and beware of covetousness, for one's life does not consist in the abundance of the things he possesses."

He proceeds to tell the man the Parable of the Rich Fool. This person was materially blessed by God; his land "produced plentifully" (v. 16). As God continued to bless the man, instead of using his increase to further the will of God, all he was interested in was managing his increase and accumulating his growing wealth. So the man builds larger barns in place of the existing ones and starts planning an early retirement. Unbeknownst to him, this was his last night on planet earth. Jesus then closes the story by saying, "So is the one who lays up treasure for himself and is not rich toward God."

So the point of the Parable of the Rich Fool is twofold. One, we are not to devote our lives to the gathering and accumulation of wealth. There is an interesting point made in the parable. God says to the man in the story, "and the things you have prepared, whose will they be?" This echoes the thought expressed in Ecclesiastes 2:18 ("I hated all my toil in which I toil under the sun, seeing that I must leave it to the man who will come after me."). You see it all the time in people who are singularly devoted to the accumulation of wealth. What happens to all that wealth when they die? It gets left behind to others who didn't earn it and won't appreciate it. Furthermore, if money is your master, that means God is not (Matthew 6:24).

The second point of the Parable of the Rich Fool is the fact that we are not blessed by God to hoard our wealth to ourselves. We are blessed to be a blessing in the lives of others and we are blessed to build the kingdom of God. The Bible says if our riches increase, we are not to set our hearts upon it (Psalm 62:10). The Bible also says there is one who gives freely and grows all the richer (Proverbs 11:24). Finally the Bible says we are to honor God with the first fruits of our increase (Proverbs 3:9-10). The point is clear, if we honor God with what he has given us, He will bless with more so that we can honor Him with more. There is a passage in Second Corinthians that summarizes this aptly (2 Corinthians 9:6-15). In that passage Paul says, "And God is able to provide you with every blessing in abundance, so that having all contentment in all things at all times, you may abound in every good work" We are blessed by God, so we can in turn "abound in every good work" and be a blessing in the lives of others. So if God has blessed you with material wealth "set not your heart on it" and "be rich toward God." That is the message of the Parable of the Rich Fool.

Meditation: What causes disputes and what's the best means for settling them? In Jesus' time it was customary for people to take their disputes to the rabbis for settlement. Jesus refuses such a case and instead gives the disputant a parable to "mull over". How would you react if Jesus refused to settle your dispute, but gave you a parable instead? What is the point of Jesus' story about a wealthy landowner and why does he call him a fool? Jesus does not fault him for his industriousness, but for his egoism and selfishness. Like the rich man and Lazarus, he had lost the capacity to be concerned for others. His life was consumed with his possessions and his only interests were in himself. His death was the final loss of his soul! In the parable of the rich fool Jesus gives a lesson on using material possessions. His lesson contains a warning to beware of all covetousness. To covet is to wish to get wrongfully what another possesses or to begrudge what God gave him. Jesus restates the commandment do not covet, but he also states that a person's life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions. In this little parable Jesus probes the heart -- where is your treasure? Treasure has a special connection to the heart, the place of desire and longing, the place of will and focus. The thing we most set our heart on is our highest treasure. What do you treasure most?

"Lord, free me from all covetousness and from attachment to possessions. May I wholly desire you as my treasure and portion. Help me to make good use of the material blessings you give me that I may use them generously for your glory and for the good of others."

Application:

1. How important are your material possessions to you?

2. Could you pass more of them on today?

3. Do you accept the premise that God owns everything and we are but stewards, or managers, as David claims in Psalm 50:10-15?

For every beast of the forest is Mine, And the cattle on a thousand hills.

I know all the birds of the mountains, And the wild beasts of the field are Mine.

"If I were hungry, I would not tell you; For the world is Mine, and all its fullness.

Will I eat the flesh of bulls, Or drink the blood of goats?

Offer to God thanksgiving, And pay your vows to the Most High.

Call upon Me in the day of trouble; I will deliver you, and you shall glorify Me."

When we acknowledge God's ownership,

every spending decision becomes a spiritual decision. It becomes very easy to spend somebody's money.

7. Parable of the Ten Minas

Luke 19:11-26

Now as they heard these things, He spoke another parable, because He was near Jerusalem and because they thought the kingdom of God would appear immediately.

Therefore He said: "A certain nobleman went into a far country to receive for himself a kingdom and to return. 13 So he called ten of his servants, delivered to them ten minas,[b] and said to them, 'Do business till I come.' 14 But his citizens hated him, and sent a delegation after him, saying, 'We will not have this man to reign over us.'

And so it was that when he returned, having received the kingdom, he then commanded these servants, to whom he had given the money, to be called to him, that he might know how much every man had gained by trading. 16 Then came the first, saying, 'Master, your mina has earned ten minas.' 17 And he said to him, 'Well done, good servant; because you were faithful in a very little, have authority over ten cities.' 18 And the second came, saying, 'Master, your mina has earned five minas.' 19 Likewise he said to him, 'You also be over five cities.'

20 "Then another came, saying, 'Master, here is your mina, which I have kept put away in a handkerchief. 21 For I feared you, because you are an austere man. You collect what you did not deposit, and reap what you did not sow.' 22 And he said to him, 'Out of your own mouth I will judge you,you wicked servant. You knew that I was an austere man, collecting what I did not deposit and reaping what I did not sow. 23 Why then did you not put my money in the bank, that at my coming I might have collected it with interest?'

24 "And he said to those who stood by, 'Take the mina from him, and give it to him who has

ten minas.' 25 (But they said to him, 'Master, he has ten minas.') 26 'For I say to you, that to everyone who has will be given; and from him who does not have, even what he has will be taken away from him. 27 But bring here those enemies of mine, who did not want me to reign over them, and slay them before me."'

John Maxwell

Stewardship: Leaders are Brokers of Resources

(Luke 19:11-26)

Jesus told a story about a landowner who gave ten men some funds to spend, save, or invest. Each did as he saw fit, and when the owner returned, he rewarded them according to how wisely they used their resources. Those who multiplied what had been entrusted to them received even more to use. The one who failed had even his little money taken away.

Our Lord wants us to remember that leaders are brokers of the resources they have been given. Those resources may include people, budget, time, wisdom, and talents. When leaders broker those resources well, God rewards them and gives them even more to invest. When they fail, they lose what little they have.

This is a sobering truth, but one that leaders would do well to remember. Do you want more resources? If so, what are you doing with what you already have?

The story is about a businessman who left town to accept another offer or maybe to visit head-office. He was not very well-liked for some reason unknown to us. The businessman gave ten of his employees ten minas - which was about 3 month's wages. He gave them the same instructions:

Do business, or occupy, until I return.

Upon his return from what appears to have been a very successful trip, he asked for a meeting with all ten employees. We get the result from just three of them. It would appear that the leader had political connections as well.

Servant Number One:

Master I have doubled 100% return on your investment. Reward - in charge of 10 cities

Servant Number Two:

Master I have made a 50% return on your investment. Reward - in charge of 5 cities

Servant Number Three:

No return, not even bank interest

Reward - mina taken back and given to Servant Number One

Conclusion: Servant Number Three probably had no goal or ambition; plus the leader had no time for all the complaining.

Application:

The key principle in this story is faithfulness in using what you have or have been given. So this begs the questions:

1. Do you have written goals for all areas of your life? Studies show only 3-4% of people ever do.

Someone without written goals - life is just wishful thinking.

2. Do you follow through on your commitments?

Three principles of success:

1. Communication

2. Education

3. Recognition

8. Parable of the Mustard Seed

Luke 13:18-19; Mark4:30-32; Matthew 13:31-32

31 Another parable He put forth to them, saying: "The kingdom of heaven is like a mustard seed, which a man took and sowed in his field, 32 which indeed is the least of all the seeds; but when it is grown it is greater than the herbs and becomes a tree, so that the birds of the air come and nest in its branches."

Principle: We reap what we sow

This story is about the planting of a mustard seed, which at this time was the smallest and least seed known to man.

Please realize that in the days of Jesus on Earth, most of the economy was AGRICULTURAL.

The mustard plant is a weed and like all weeds, will grow anywhere. These plants have been known to grow as high as ten feet, sometimes even higher.

Interpretation:

The plant referred to here is generally considered to be black mustard, a large annual plant up to 9 feet tall,[2] but growing from a proverbially small seed[2] (this smallness is also used to refer to faith in Matthew 17:20 and Luke 17:6). According to rabbinical sources, Jews did not grow the plant in gardens,[2] and this is consistent with Matthew's description of it growing in a field. Luke tells the parable with the plant in a garden instead; this is presumably recasting the story for an audience outside Palestine.[2]

There is a "subversive and scandalous"[6] element to this parable, in that the fast-growing nature of the mustard plant makes it a "malignant weed"[6] with "dangerous takeover properties".[6] Pliny the Elder, in his Natural History (published around AD 78) writes that "mustard... is extremely beneficial for the health. It grows entirely wild, though it is improved by being transplanted: but on the other hand when it has once been sown it is scarcely possible to get the place free of it, as the seed when it falls germinates at once."[9] Ben Witherington notes that Jesus could have chosen a genuine tree for the parable, and that the mustard plant demonstrates that "Though the dominion appeared small like a seed during Jesus' ministry, it would inexorably grow into something large and firmly rooted, which some would find shelter in and others would find obnoxious and try to root out."[7]

We all reap what we so in all areas of life, as there is no growth unless a seed is planted. Seed planting is always a choice that is within our control.

After the flood, God promised eight times these we can count on:

Genesis 8:22 "For as long as Earth lasts, planting and harvest, cold and heat, Summer and winter, day and night will never stop."

1. Planting

2. Harvest

3. Cold

4. Heat

5. Summer

6. Winter

7. Day

8. Night

will never stop

The only one of the eight that we have control over is number one, THE PLANTING. Everything else is up to God.

Psalm 104:16 says

The trees of the Lord are full of sap. Sap is the life-blood of any tree.

Function:

Sap is sometimes called the blood of a tree because it circulates inside a tree, carrying nutrients and water throughout the tree. The sap is basically a nutrient transport system inside the tree; a tree would die if sap didn't circulate inside it. Sap is also a nutritious food eaten by many forest creatures such as squirrels.

Benefits:

Tree sap not only benefits the tree, but it also people. Tree sap is extracted and used to make maple syrup, latex, resins, hair removal and other products. Tree sap is sometimes added to natural soaps and bath care products due to its nutrient contents. The sap also helps to hold things together. Fossilized resin from tree sap is made into amber jewelry. Scientists have also found mosquitoes and other small insects inside fossilized tree sap.

So the questions become:

1. What type of seeds are you planting in your personal, family business, or occupational life?

2. What type of sap is being applied to seed planting?

After you plant a seed in any part of your life, here are words and actions to consider:

1. Attitude

2. Follow-up

3. Encouragement

4. Love

5. Praise

6. Recognition

7. Thank you's

9. Parable of the Unmerciful Servant

Matthew 18:21-35

21 Then Peter came to Him and said, "Lord, how often shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? Up to seven times?"

22 Jesus said to him, "I do not say to you, up to seven times, but up to seventy times seven.

23 Therefore the kingdom of heaven is like a certain king who wanted to settle accounts with his servants. 24 And when he had begun to settle accounts, one was brought to him who owed him ten thousand talents. 25 But as he was not able to pay, his master commanded that he be sold, with his wife and children and all that he had, and that payment be made. 26 The servant therefore fell down before him, saying, 'Master, have patience with me, and I will pay you all.' 27 Then the master of that servant was moved with compassion, released him, and forgave him the debt.

28 "But that servant went out and found one of his fellow servants who owed him a hundred denarii; and he laid hands on him and took him by the throat, saying, 'Pay me what you owe!' 29 So his fellow servant fell down at his feet[a] and begged him, saying, 'Have patience with me, and I will pay you all.'[b] 30 And he would not, but went and threw him into prison till he should pay the debt. 31 So when his fellow servants saw what had been done, they were very grieved, and came and told their master all that had been done. 32 Then his master, after he had called him, said to him, 'You wicked servant! I forgave you all that debt because you begged me. 33 Should you not also have had compassion on your fellow servant, just as I had pity on you?' 34 And his master was angry, and delivered him to the torturers until he should pay all that was due to him.

35 "So My heavenly Father also will do to you if each of you, from his heart, does not forgive his brother his trespasses."

How should we manage our debts?

Answer: We find the Parable of the Unforgiving Servant only in Matthew 18:23-35. The Apostle Peter had asked how many times one should forgive, "Till seven times?" and Jesus answered, "not seven times but seventy times seven" (Matt. 18:21-22). The context of this passage is Jesus teaching His disciples about the "kingdom of Heaven". We can take??

The servant whose lord forgave him much, ten thousand talents, equivalent to several millions of dollars, was unwilling to forgive another servant who owed him a hundred denarii. A denarius was a day's wage and was worth approximately sixteen cents.

Therefore, compared to what the first servant was forgiven, this was a very small amount. The principle here is, "the one forgiven much should forgive much." In other words, the principle of forgiveness is that grace or forgiveness to another is without limit. The disciples are not to count the number of times they forgive. Rather, as the parable teaches, they are to forgive much because God has forgiven much.

Therefore, in the Parable of the Unforgiving/Unmerciful/Unjust Servant, Jesus is teaching His disciples, and us by extension, that forgiveness should be in like proportion to the amount forgiven. The first servant had been forgiven all, and he then should have forgive all. In like manner, a child of God by faith through Christ has had all sins forgiven. Therefore,

when someone offends or sins against us we should e willing to forgive him from a heart of gratitude or the grace to which we ourselves are debtors.

David Cowan in his book, "Economic Parables" states "the Old Testament forbade debt, yet Jesus seems to accept debt in this parable. Today's economy is heavily dependent on debt. Many people get deeply into debt, often ending up battling collection agencies if not declaring bankruptcy. What is the Christian attitude toward debt? Should we be generous in helping people mired in debt?

Have you seen that great Lending Tree ad on TV, where a guy is driving around a large yard on his lawn tractor, telling us all the great things he owns? At the end of the ad he asks the viewer, 'how can I afford this?' Then he looks directly into the camera and says cheerfully through gritted teeth, 'because I'm in debt up to my eyeballs. I can barely pay my finance charges. Somebody help me!"

Debt is something that, in varying measures, nearly all of us have. We may have a mortgage, a car loan, credit card balances or many other kinds of debt. The value of debt is that it can be used to leverage our earnings and investments - by financing big items and freeing up our monthly income for other things while some of the big items accrue in value beyond their original costs. A good example is our house and the improvements we make to it through financing loans, which enables us to use debt to increase our financial security and overall worth. However, debt can also be a liability that contributes to the loss of value in our investments, such as when a crash in the housing market occurs.

British economist John Maynard Keynes suggested that if you owe the bank a dollar you have a problem; but if you owe the bank a million dollars, then the bank has a problem. Brazil's finance minister a few years back added, "And if you're Brazil, then you own the bank!" U.S. banks had sunk so much money into Latin American economies that the reality was they were beholden to the finance ministers. They had to work out a deal to solve the debt crisis.

Individuals also borrow money against their assets, usually their home. And when you deposit your paycheck into the bank, you have created a debt, because the bank now owes you what you deposited. Your asset becomes the bank's liability. Your credit card debts, on the other hand, become the assets of your bank or card issuer. Our financial situation is tied to our reputation for keeping up with these payments because our borrowing power if based on our previous record ofrepaying loans and bills."

"We learn the real value of forgiveness in this parable. We can look round us and see all the wonderful things we have. We can wonder at the world created to sustain us. We can stand in awe at the marvelous things God has given us. We can turn to ourselves land see how little we have to give in return. Yet God does not demand much from us, only that we give ourselves to Him in faith. This is the set of spiritual accounts God keeps with us and we are up to our eyeballs in debt!

"Generosity is relative - like a man with a hole in his shoe is better off than a man with no shoes. We read Romans 13:8: "let no debt remain outstanding, except the continuing debt to love one another." We need to look beyond our problems and our self-absorbed view of our situation and in love look to others and how they live. We can easily fool ourselves into being less than generous. We can pretend that someone wealthier, with less money hassles, will help the poor. We can also think that all the solutions will come from someone else because we are too wrapped up in our own problems."

Application:

1. Obviously to be debt free is the ultimate position to be in.

2. Pay your debts on time - Proverbs lll3:27-28. When you owe money it is not yours, so pay on schedule.

"One of the biggest rewards of obeying God and paying your debts on time is the freedom to do the right thing when God speaks." - Robert Morris

To get out of debt or to pay your debt on time, you may have to change your lifestyle - it is called downsizing.

Keypoint: Be as eager to repay a loan as it was to obtain it.

3. If you put up security for a personal loan or business loan, be sure it is not a basic necessity like your home - Proverbs 22:26-27

Solomon's sound business advice - "don't sign until you are sure".

Keypoint: Remember your home is your wife's castle... don't mess with it.

The old English proverb says it best... 'Better safe than sorry'.

3. Do not be afraid to forgive debts of others.

ACTIONS TO BE TAKEN

Take time to consider and write down what you think your life purposes include.

The Mystery Secret of the Kingdom of Heaven

Sun, 29 Jun 2025 23:49:53 GMT

There Are 14 Mysteries In the Bible and This is the First Mentioned: Matthew 3.2 The Kingdom Of Heaven is Gods' Government on Earth.

The Mystery or Secret of the Kingdom of Heaven

THE MYSTERIES OF THE NEW TESTAMENT

What is mystery: Greek def. ‘musterion’ = imposed silence; secret only a New Testament word.

The mysteries of God can only be understood by believers through the power of the Holy Spirit; Colossians 1:24‐29, John 14:15‐18, 35‐31

1. Mysteries of the Kingdom of Heaven, Matthew 13:11

2. Mysteries of the Kingdom of God, Luke 8:10; Mark4:15; I Corinthians 4:5; Revelation 10:7; Mark 9:1

3. Mystery when Israel accepts Christ as Messiah, Romans 15:24‐26

4. Mystery of salvation, Romans 16:25‐27; Ephesians 3:3,4,9; Colossians 1:26,27; 4:3

5. Mystery of the wisdom of God, I Corinthians 2:7

6. Mystery of the Second Coming of Jesus Christ, I Corinthians 15:51

7. Mystery of the will of God, Ephesians 1:9

8. Mystery of Christ and the Church, His Bride, in the context of marriage, Ephesians 5:32

9. Mystery of Christian fellowship in the context of knowing God and Christ, Colossians 2:2

10. Mystery of lawlessness in context of great apostasy in end times, II Thessalonians 2:7

11. Mystery of faith, I Timothy 3:9

12. Mystery of godliness, I Timothy 3:16

13. Mystery of seven stars, Revelation 1:20

14. Mystery of Babylon, Revelation 17:5,7

Why is this so important? I Corinthians 4:1,2

THE KINGDOM OF HEAVEN

A Kingdom Within the Heart

By Tom Roselius

For the past fifteen years I’ve been seeking to understand the mysteries of the kingdom by lots of prayer and study, and I must admit that it’s been quite an interesting journey; but what I’m going to share is not standard teaching, so it’s going to be difficult to hear; in fact, that’s why Jesus said

that many will “hear” his kingdom parables without understanding what they say; and that many will “see” the mysteries of the kingdom, without

perceiving what they mean (Matthew 13:9‐15). So not only is this a difficult truth to hear, but it is equally hard to teach; so when we try to hear

something new, we need to let the Holy Spirit do the teaching; for when we don’t, we end up rejecting truth just because it disagrees with our

own perceptions; and then we’re no better off than the Pharisees that couldn’t hear what Jesus taught because he healed on the Sabbath; and

we end up with doctrines that are so rigid, that they keep us from hearing anything new.

So with that in mind, I’m going to share some of the things I’ve uncovered in my own personal search for the kingdom. When I talk about the kingdom of heaven, there isn’t one definition I can give you that will fully explain his kingdom; for the kingdom of heaven has many different faces.

For example, the kingdom of heaven is likened unto leaven that a woman hid in three measures of meal; and it’s likened unto seed that is sown

in the soil; but these parables illustrate how the kingdom of heaven mysteriously changes our hearts, rather than tell us what his kingdom will

be like when it actually appears.

Welcome to the Kingdom of Heaven

God’s Government on Earth

Where is the Kingdom of Heaven?

The Kingdom of Heaven has no physical boundaries. Wherever there is someone walking in obedience to Jesus Christ, there you will find the

Kingdom.

Jesus said, “ Where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them. ” Matthew 18:20

‐Kingdom of Heaven is referred to as a mystery (Matthew 13:11)

‐Kingdom of Heaven appears to link the present and future (Matthew 5:3,10,19.20)

‐Jesus, giving instructions to the disciples, said that the Kingdom of Heaven is at hand (Matthew 4:17)

What the Kingdom of Heaven is not

The Kingdom is not made up of a particular race or family or nationality.

Whosoever shall do the will of our Father in heaven, the same is our brother, and sister, and mother. Matthew 12:50

The Kingdom is neither Jew nor Greek, bond nor free, male nor female, for ye are all one in Christ Jesus. Galatians 3:28

The Kingdom of Heaven is not a building. John 4:21‐24

The Kingdom of Heaven is not a corporation of the state. John 15:4

The ancient scriptures predicted the Kingdom of Heaven. The New Testament proclaims that it has arrived!

Jesus didn’t bring us a religion. He brought us a nationality. As many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to

them that believe on his name: Which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of men, but of God. John 1:12‐13

Reading: How it Happened

Who Are We?

We are Christ’s ambassadors and Citizens of Heaven, called out of the world to preach Heaven’s message (II Corinthians 5:20; 6:17; Philippians

3:20).

We are a holy nation, a peculiar people, living in obedience to the simple teachings of Jesus Christ as recorded in the Holy Bible (I Peter 2:9).

Why We Are Not Citizens of the World

The Kingdom of Heaven is God’s nation established by Jesus Christ. Luke 22:9.

Our citizenship is in the Kingdom of Heaven. Philippians 3:20.

No man can obey two masters. Matthew 6:24.

We expect to be held accountable to the Laws from which we come. Romans 14:12‐13.

The law cannot demand the impossible; it cannot require that we obey two masters. Romans 14:4.

The Supreme Law of the Kingdom of Heaven is the Golden Rule. Matthew 22:37‐40.

The Kingdom of Heaven is available to all who love and trust Jesus Christ. John 14:23.

Parents instruct their children. They are directly responsible for training them up in the Lord (Ephesians 6:4)

Known as a giver, not a taker. We give and it is given back to us in good measure (Luke 6:38).

Love our enemies. We do good to those who hate us. We bless them and pray for them (Matthew 5:44).

No lawsuits. We do not seek courts of law as a remedy for wrongs done (I Corinthians 6:1‐8).

Busy storing treasures in Heaven. Our heart is on the heavenly things, not on earthly treasures (Matthew 6:20).

The bank of Heaven

Slow to anger. We are mild‐mannered, forgiving one another and willing to be defrauded (Ephesians 4:31‐32).

Treat others the way we want to be treated. We are not here to seek money, property, popularity, honors, or advantage. We diligently seek and promote the Kingdom of Heaven, trusting God to supply our every need (Matthew 6:33).

Pay taxes on time, in full, and be honest – Romans 13:1‐7; I Timothy 2:1‐4.

Government is God’s idea and there is no authority except from God.

KEYPOINT: These are two of the most difficult principles to obey. Consider when Paul wrote this, Nero was emperor at the time. Nero was notoriously cruel. He needed a scapegoat for the great fire that destroyed much of Rome in 64 AD. So, he blamed and persecuted the Christian community.

Two key elements:

1. Key accurate records

2. Obtain a good tax accountant.

You don’t have to agree with the political party in power, but we must pray for them. Although God is all‐powerful and all knowing He has chosen to let us help Him change the world through our prayers. How this works is a mystery to us because of our limited understanding. However, it is a reality.

The Kingdom is best expressed in the body of Christ, which is the BEAUTIFUL BRIDE OF JESUS CHRIST (Ephesians 5:22‐23)

This is who we are in Jesus Christ:

1. A peculiar (special) people Titus 2:14

The Bride of Christ Ephesians 5:22,23

3. A Holy Nation I Peter 2:9

4. Temple of the Holy Spirit II Corinthians 6:19,20

5. Saints I Corinthians 1:2

6. Preserved Blameless at His Coming I Thessalonians 5:23

7. Royal Priesthood I Peter 2:9

8. Living Stones I Peter 2:9

9. A Spiritual House I Peter 2:5

10. Holy Priesthood I Peter 2:5

11. People of God I Peter 2:9

Jesus Christ is the Cornerstone I Peter 2:6,7

The Word of God is our authority – our belief system for all of life through the power of the Holy Spirit. (A Biblical worldview)

WHY IS GOD A COVENANT GOD AND NEVER BREAKS HIS COVENANT?

God’s covenants are always unconditional and undeserving.

Again and again there is a prophetic call to recognize the hand of God, who will never cancel His covenant but whose

unshakable purpose is that Israel shall be the witness that manifests His sovereign glory to all the nations.

Shalom and berith (“covenant”) are practically synonymous. Shalom refers to the state of those who participate in the harmonious society. Berith refers to the community and all the privileges and obligations that community implies. Covenant and shalom go hand in hand; God’s community must have one to experience the other. THE ADAM COVENANT “It is of vital importance for a right understanding of much in God’s Word to observe the relation which Adam sustained to his posterity. Adam was not only the common parent of mankind, but he was also their federal head and representative. 

The whole human race was placed on probation or trial in Eden. Adam acted not for himself alone, but he transacted for all who were to spring from him. Unless this basic fact be definitely apprehended, much that ought to be relatively clear to us will be shrouded in impenetrable mystery. Yea, we go further, and affirm that, until the federal headship of Adam and God’s covenant with him in that office be actually perceived, we are without the key to God’s dealings with the human race, we are unable to discern man’s relation to the divine law, and we appreciate not the fundamental principles upon the atonement of Christ proceeded. When Adam stood in Eden as a responsible being before God, he stood there as a federal head, as the legal representative of all his posterity. Hence, when Adam sinned, all for whom was standing are accounted as having sinned; when he fell, all whom he represented fell; when he died, they died. 

So too was it will Christ. When He came to this earth, He, too, stood in a federal relationship to His own people; and when He became obedient unto death, all for whom He was acting were accounted righteous; when He rose again from the dead, all whom He represented rose with Him; when He ascended on high, they were regarded as ascending with Him. “For as in Adam all die, even so in Christ shall all be made alive” (I Corinthians 15:22).” MYSTERY OF THE KINGDOM OF HEAVEN Matthew 13:913 A.W. Pink The words “king” and “kingdom” are mentioned about 3000 times. In the Old Testament, the basic meaning of “king” or “kingdom” in Hebrew is royalty, dominion, or estate. The New Testament Greek meaning is rule, reign, or foundation of power. The Kingdom of Heaven is referred to as a mystery by Jesus and is given as a reason for parables. Matthew 13:11 13:9 Human ears hear many sounds, but there is a deeper kind of listening that results in spiritual understanding. If you honestly seek God’s will, you have spiritual hearing, and these parables will give you new perspectives. 13:10

When speaking in parables, Jesus was not hiding truth from sincere seekers, for those who were receptive to spiritual truth understood the illustrations. To others they were only stories without meaning. This allowed Jesus to give spiritual food to those who hungered for it while preventing his enemies from turning against him sooner than they might have otherwise. R.T. France on Matthew 13:1013 To know the truth about the kingdom of heaven is to know secrets. The Greek mysterion, used only here in the Gospels, became important for Paul to indicate that God’s truth comes only by revelation, not by natural insight. That is the sense here too – only those to whom it has been given (by God) can understand the nature of 6 God’s kingdom proclaimed by Jesus, and therefore the facts about its growth, membership, demands and privileges which these parables convey. Parables, which to the hostile and the merely curious were simple stories, would yield their riches only within this context, to those who know the secrets. The laws of capitalist economics (capital breeds income; lack of capital spells ruin) serve as a ‘parable’ of spiritual enlightenment. The ‘secrets’ of God’s kingdom can be grasped only by those who already have the spiritual capacity to receive them, i.e. the disciples as opposed to ‘those outside’. True Biblical economics cannot be understood by non‐believers in Jesus Christ. There are over 2300 verses that refer to a financial issue. Approximately 50% of the parables that Jesus Christ taught refer to a material issue.

WHAT IS THE KINGDOM OF HEAVEN?

John the Baptist comes forward with the announcement that the Kingdom of Heaven is at hand. Matthew 3:2 John also mentions repentance. The first message of Jesus Christ was repentance. Matthew 4:17 The first sermon by Peter in the New Testament Church was repentance. Acts 2:38 Jesus is King and God the Father has given Him all authority. The coming of the Kingdom of Heaven is the great perspective of the future prepared by the coming of the “Messiah” which paves the way for the Kingdom of God. It appears to me that it was the intent of Jesus to pass this authority to us, His bride, the church. He promised to give us the keys to the Kingdom of Heaven. Matthew 16:18‐19 He also promised that we would do greater works (John 14:12‐14). Greater in Greek = megas; English = mega.

I. In John the Baptist John the Baptist first comes forward with the announcement that the kingdom of heaven is at hand (Mt. 3:2) and Jesus takes this message over from him (Mt. 4:17).

The expression ‘kingdom of heaven’ (Heb. mal kut samayim) originates with the late‐Jewish expectation of the future in which it denoted the decisive intervention of God, ardently expected by Israel, to restore his people’s fortunes and liberate them from the power of their enemies. The coming of the kingdom is the great perspective of the future, prepared by the coming of the Messiah, which paves the way for the kingdom of God. By the time of Jesus the development of this eschatological hope in Judaism had taken a great variety of forms, in which now the national element and now the cosmic and apocalyptic element is prominent. This hope goes back to the proclamation in OT prophecy concerning both the restoration of David’s throne and the coming of God to renew the world. Although the OT has nothing to say of the eschatological kingdom of heaven in so many words, yet in the Psalms and prophets the future manifestation of God’s royal sovereignty belongs to the most central concept of OT faith and hope. Here too various elements achieve prominence, as may be clearly seen from a comparison of the earlier prophets with the prophecies regarding universal world‐sovereignty and the emergence of the Son of man in the book of Daniel. When John the Baptist and, after him, Jesus himself proclaimed that the kingdom was at hand, this proclamation involved an awakening cry of sensational and universal significance. The long‐expected divine turning‐point in history, the great restoration, however it was conceived at the time, is proclaimed as being at hand. It is therefore of all the greater importance to survey the content of the NT preaching with regard to the coming of the kingdom. In the preaching of John the Baptist prominence is given to the announcement of divine judgment as a reality which is immediately at hand. The axe is already laid to the root of the trees. God’s coming as King is above all else a coming to purify, to sift, to judge. No‐one can evade it. No privilege can buy exemption from it, not even the ability to claim Abraham as one’s father. At the same time John the Baptist points to the coming One who is to follow him, whose forerunner he himself is. The coming One comes with the winnowing‐fan in his hand. In view of his coming the people must repent and submit to baptism for the washing away of sins, so as to escape the coming wrath and participate in the salvation of the kingdom and the baptism with the Holy Spirit which will be poured out when it comes (Mt. 3:1‐12).

II. In the teaching of Jesus a. Present aspect Jesus’ proclamation of the kingdom follows word for word on John’s, yet it bears a much more comprehensive character. After John the Baptist had watched Jesus’ appearance for a considerable time, he began to be in doubt whether Jesus was, after all, the coming One whom he had announced (Mt. 11:2f.). Jesus’ proclamation of the kingdom differs in two respects from that of the Baptist. In the first place, while it retains without qualification the announcement of judgment and the call to 8 repentance, it is the saving significance of the kingdom that stands in the foreground. In the second place‐and here is the pith and core of the matter‐he announced the kingdom not just as a reality which was at hand, something which would appear in the immediate future, but as a reality which was already present, manifested in his own person and ministry. Although the places where Jesus speaks explicitly of the kingdom as being present are not numerous (see especially Mt. 12:28 and parallels), his whole preaching and ministry are marked by this dominant reality. In him the great future has already become ‘present time’. This present aspect of the kingdom manifests itself in all sorts of ways in the person and deeds of Christ. It appears palpably and visibly in the casting out of demons (cf. Lk. 11:20) and generally in Jesus’ miraculous power. In the healing of those who are demon‐possessed it becomes evident that Jesus has invaded the house of ‘the strong man’, has bound him fast and so is in a position to plunder his goods (Mt. 12:29). The kingdom of heaven breaks into the domain of the evil one. The power of Satan is broken. Jesus sees him fall like lightning from heaven. He possesses and bestows power to trample on the dominion of the enemy. Nothing can be impossible for those who go forth into the world, invested with Jesus’ power, as witnesses of the kingdom (Lk. 10:18f.). 

The whole of Jesus’ miraculous activity is the proof of the coming of the kingdom. What many prophets and righteous men desired in vain to see‐the breaking in of the great epoch of salvation‐the disciples can now see and hear (Mt. 13:16; Lk. 10:23). When John the Baptist sent his disciples to ask, ‘Are you he who is to come, or shall we look for another?’ they were shown the wonderful works done by Jesus, in which, according to the promise of prophecy, the kingdom was already being manifested: the blind were enabled to see, the lame to walk, the deaf to hear; lepers were being cleansed and dead people raised to life, and the gospel was being proclaimed to the poor (Mt. 11:2ff.; Lk. 7:18ff.). Also in the last of these‐the proclamation of the gospel‐the breaking through of the kingdom is seen. Since salvation is announced and offered as a gift already available to the poor in spirit, the hungry and the mourners, the kingdom is theirs. So too the forgiveness of sins is proclaimed, not merely as a future reality to be accomplished in heaven, nor merely as a present possibility, but as a dispensation offered today, on earth, through Jesus himself; ‘Son, daughter, your sins are forgive; for the Son of man has power on earth to forgive sins’ (see Mk. 2:12, et passim). As appears clearly from this last‐quoted word of power, all this is founded on the fact that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God. The kingdom has come in him and with him; he is the autobasileia. 

Jesus’ self‐revelation of the Messiah, the Son of man and Servant of the Lord, constitutes both the mystery and the unfolding of the whole gospel. It is impossible to explain these sayings of Jesus about himself in a future sense, as some have wished to do, as though he referred to himself only as the future Messiah, the Son of man who was to be expected on a coming day on the clouds of heaven. For however much this future revelation of the kingdom remains an essential element in the content of the gospel, we cannot mistake the fact that in the Gospels Jesus’ Messiahship is present here and now. Not only is he proclaimed as such at his baptism and on the Mount of Transfiguration‐as the beloved and elect 9 One of God (plain Messianic designations)‐but he is also endowed with the Holy Spirit (Mt. 3:16) and invested with full divine authority (Mt. 21:27); the Gospel is full of his declarations of absolute authority, he is presented as the One sent by the Father, the One who has come to fulfill what the prophets foretold. In his coming and teaching the Scripture is fulfilled in the ears of those who listen to him (Lk. 4:21). He came not to destroy but to fulfill (Mt. 5:17ff.), to announce the kingdom (Mk. 1:38), to seek and to save the lost (Lk. 19:10), to serve others, and to give his life a ransom for many (Mk. 10:45). The secret of belonging to the kingdom lies in belonging to him (Mt. 7:23; 25:41). In brief, the person of Jesus as the Messiah is the centre of all that is announced in the gospel concerning the kingdom. 

The kingdom is concentrated in him in its present and future aspects alike. b. Future aspect There is a future aspect as well. For although it is clearly stated that the kingdom is manifested here and now in the gospel, so also is it shown that as yet it is manifested in this world only in a provisional manner. That is why the proclamation of its present activity in the words, ‘The blind receive their sight; the dead are raised; the poor have good news preached to them’, is followed by the warning; ‘Blessed is he who takes no offence at me’ (Mt. 11:6; Lk. 7:23). The ‘offence’ lies in the hidden character of the kingdom in this epoch. The miracles are still tokens of another order of reality than the present one; it is not yet the time when the demons will be delivered to eternal darkness (Mt. 8:29). The gospel of the kingdom is still revealed only as a seed which is being sown. In the parables of the sower, the seed growing secretly, the tares among the wheat, the mustard seed, the leaven, it is about this hidden aspect of the kingdom that Jesus instructs his disciples. The Son of man himself, invested with all power by God, the One who is to come on the clouds of heaven, is the Sower who sows the Word of God. He is depicted as a man dependent upon others: the birds, the thorns, human beings, can partially frustrate his work. He has to wait and see what will come of his seed. Indeed, the hiddenness of the kingdom is deeper still: the King himself comes in the form of a slave. The birds of the air have nests, but the Son of man (Dn. 7:13) has no place to lay his head. In order to receive everything, he must first of all give up everything. He must give his life as a ransom; as the suffering Servant of the Lord of Is. 53, he must be numbered with the transgressors. The kingdom has come; the kingdom will come. But it comes by the way of the cross, and before the Son of man exercises his authority over all the kingdoms of the earth (Mt. 4:8; 28:18) he must tread the path of obedience to his Father in order to fulfil all righteousness (Mt. 3:15). The manifestation of the kingdom has therefore a history in this world. It must be proclaimed to every creature. Like the wonderful seed, it must sprout and grow, no man knows how (Mk. 4:27). It has an inward power by which it makes its way through all sorts of obstacles and advances over all; for the field in which the seed is sown is the world (Mt. 13:38). The gospel of the kingdom goes forth to all nations (Mt. 28:19), for the King of the kingdom is also Lord of the Spirit. His resurrection brings in a new aeon; the preaching of the kingdom and the King reaches out to the ends of the earth. The decision has already come to pass; but the fulfillment still recedes into the future. What at first appears to be one and the same coming of the kingdom, what is 10 announced as one indivisible reality, at hand and at close quarters, extends itself to cover new periods of time and far distances. For the frontiers of this kingdom are not coterminous with Israel’s boundaries or history: the kingdom embraces all nations and fills all ages until the end of the world comes.

III. Kingdom and church

The kingdom is thus related to the history of the church and of the world alike. A connection exists between kingdom and church, but they are not identical, even in the present age. The kingdom is the whole of God’s redeeming activity in Christ in this world; the church is the assembly of those who belong to Jesus Christ. Perhaps one could speak in terms of two concentric circles, of which the church is the smaller and the kingdom is the larger, while Christ is the centre of both. This relation of the church to the kingdom can be formulated in all kinds of ways. The church is the assembly of those who have accepted the gospel of the kingdom by faith, who participate in the salvation of the kingdom, which includes the forgiveness of sins, adoption by God, the indwelling of the Holy Spirit, the possession of eternal life. They are also those in whose life the kingdom takes visible form, the light of the world, the salt of the earth; those who have taken on themselves the yoke of the kingdom, who live by their King’s commandments and learn from him (Mt. 11:28‐30). The church, as the organ of the kingdom, is called to confess Jesus as the Christ, to the missionary task of preaching the gospel in the world; she is also the community of those who wait for the coming of the kingdom in glory the servants who have received their Lord’s talents in prospect of his return. The church receives her whole constitution from the kingdom, on all sides she is beset and directed by the revelation, the progress, the future coming of the kingdom of God, without at any time being the kingdom herself or even being identified with it. Therefore the kingdom is not confined within the frontiers of the church. Christ’s Kingship is supreme above all. Where it prevails and is acknowledged, not only is the individual human being set free, but the whole pattern of life is changed: the curse of the demons and fear of hostile powers disappears. The change which Christianity brings about among peoples dominated by nature‐religions is a proof of the comprehensive, all‐embracing significance of the kingdom. It works not only outwardly like a mustard seed but inwardly like leaven. It makes its way into the world with its redeeming power. The last book of the Bible, which portrays Christ’s Kingship in the history of the world and its advancing momentum right to the end, especially illuminates the antithesis between the triumphant Christ‐King (cf., e.g., Rev. 5:1 ff.) and the power of Satan and antichrist, which still survives on earth and contends against Christ and his church. However much the kingdom invades worldhistory with its blessing and deliverance, however much it presents itself as a saving power against the tyranny of gods and forces inimical to mankind, it is only through a final and universal crisis that the kingdom, as a visible and all‐conquering reign of peace and salvation, will bring to full fruition the new heaven and the new earth. 11 IV. In the rest of the New Testament The expression ‘kingdom of heaven’ or ‘kingdom of God’ does not appear so frequently in the NT outside the Synoptic Gospels. This is, however, simply a matter of terminology. As the indication of the great revolution in the history of salvation which has already been inaugurated by Christ’s coming, and as the expected consummation of all the acts of God, it is the central theme of the whole NT revelation of God. Matthew 4:23‐25

APPLICATION OF THE MYSTERY OF THE KINGDOM OF HEAVEN IN OUR DAILY LIVES

1. There appears to be a relationship between teaching and doctrine (same word in Greek) POINT: signs and wonders followed the doctrine of Jesus The same principle is in the New Testament church Acts 2:42‐43 – Doctrine teaching is listed first with signs and wonders following. The Kingdom of Heaven appears to link the present future (Matthew 5, 3, 10, 19. 20) Matthew 13:19 The vital importance of doctrine and relationship to the kingdom. Word – logas: written rhema: revealed Verse 19 – rhema Matthew Henry Let us therefore compare the parable and the exposition. (1.) The seed sown is the word of God, here called the word of the kingdom (v.19): the kingdom of heaven, that is the kingdom; the kingdoms of the world, compared with that, are not to be called kingdoms. The gospel comes from that kingdom, and conducts to that kingdom; the word of the gospel is the word of the kingdom; it is the word of the King, and where that is, there is power; it is a law, by which we must be ruled and governed. This word is the seed sown, which seems a dead, dry thing, but all the product is virtually in it. It is incorruptible seed (I Pet. 1: 23); it is the gospel that brings forth fruit in souls, Col. 1:5, 6. Matthew 13:18‐23 13:23 The four types of soil represent the different responses we can have to God’s message. We respond differently because we are in different states of readiness. Some people are hardened, others are shallow, others are contaminated by 12 distracting cares, and some are receptive. How has God’s Word taken root in your life? What kind of soil are you?

Matthew 10:5‐15 The 12 Sent Out to Preach The Kingdom of Heaven is at Hand 10:5,6 Why didn’t Jesus send the disciples to the Gentiles or the Samaritans? A Gentile is anyone who is not a Jew. The Samaritans were a race that resulted from intermarriage between Jews and Gentiles after the Old Testament captivities (see 2 Kings 17:24). Jesus asked his disciples to go only to the Jews because he came first to the Jews. They were chosen by God to be the ones who would tell the rest of the world about God. And this is what eventually happened: Jewish disciples and apostles preached the Good News of the risen Christ all around the Roman Empire, and soon Gentiles were pouring into the Church. The Bible clearly teaches that God’s message of salvation is for all people, regardless of race, sex, or national origin (Genesis 12:3; Isaiah 25:6; 56:3‐7; Malachi 1:11; Acts 10:34, 35; Romans 3:29, 20; Galatians 3:28). 10:7 The Jews were waiting for the Messiah to usher in his kingdom. They hoped for a political and military kingdom that would free them from Roman rule and return the days of glory under David and Solomon. But Jesus was talking about a spiritual kingdom.

The Good News today is that the kingdom is still near. Jesus, the Messiah, has already begun the kingdom on earth in the hearts of his followers. One day the kingdom will be fully realized. Then evil will be destroyed and all people will live in peace with one another. 10:8 Jesus gave the disciples a principle to guide their actions as they ministered to others: “Give as freely as you have received!” Because God has showered us with his blessings, we should give generously to others of our time, love, and possessions. 10:10 Matthew said that those who minister are to be cared for ‐ the disciples were to expect food and shelter because of the spiritual service they provided. Who ministers to you? Make sure you take care of the pastors, missionaries, and teachers who serve God by serving you (see 1 Corinthians 9:10 and I Timothy 5:17). 10:10 Mark’s account (9:8) says to take a walking stick, and Matthew and Luke (9:3) say not to. Jesus may have meant that they were not to take an extra set of sandals, staff, and bag. In any case, the principle was that they were to go out, ready for duty and travel, unencumbered by excess material goods. 10:14

Why did Jesus tell his disciples to shake the dust off their feet if a city or home didn’t welcome them? When leaving Gentile cities, pious Jews often shook the dust from their feet to show their separation from Gentile practices. If the disciples shook the dust of a Jewish town from their feet, it would show their separation from Jews who had rejected their Messiah. This gesture was to show the people that they were making the wrong choice – that the opportunity to choose Christ might not present itself again. Are you receptive to teaching from God? If you ignore the Spirit’s prompting, you may not get another chance. 13 10:15 The cities of Sodom and Gomorrah were destroyed by fire from heaven because of their wickedness (Genesis 19:24, 25). Jesus was saying that those who reject the Good News when they hear it will be worse off than the wicked people of these destroyed cities who never heart it at all. Matthew 11:1112 11:11

Jesus contrasted John’s spiritual life to his physical life. Of all people, no man fulfilled his God‐given purpose better than John. Yet, in God’s coming kingdom, all those present would have a greater spiritual heritage than John because they would have seen and known Christ and his finished work on the cross. 11:12 There are three common views about the meaning of the verse. (1) Jesus may have been referring to a vast movement toward God, the momentum of which began with John’s preaching. (2) A more literal translation of this verse reads, “The Kingdom of Heaven suffers violence, and men of violence take it by force.” Most of the Jews in Jesus’ day expected God’s Kingdom to come through a violent overthrow of Rome. They wanted a kingdom, but not Jesus’ kind. (3) A third translation reads, “The Kingdom of Heaven has been forcefully advancing, and forceful men lay hold of it.” The emphasis of this alternative is that entering the Kingdom takes courage, unwavering faith, determination, and endurance because of persecution leveled at Jesus’ followers.

THE PARABLE OF THE SOWER EXPLAINED Matthew 13:1823 By R.T. France General summary: Jesus gives the meaning of this illustration in verses 36‐43. All of the parables in this chapter teach us about God and his Kingdom. They explain what the Kingdom is really like as opposed to our expectations of it. The Kingdom of Heaven is not necessarily a geographic place, but a spiritual realm in which God rules and in which we have God’s eternal life. The Kingdom of Heaven is like a man who sows good seed in his field. Matthew 13:24‐30 Verse 24 1. Planting good seed is a choice 2. In his field – indicates the Biblical concept of owning land 13:24 Jesus gives the meaning of this illustration in verses 36‐43. All of the parables in this chapter teach us about God and his Kingdom. They explain what the Kingdom is really like as opposed to our expectations of it. 

The Kingdom of Heaven is not necessarily a geographic place, but a spiritual realm in which God rules and in which we have God’s eternal life. 14 24 May be compared to (cf. ‘is like’ in vv. 31, 33, 44, 45, 47 and similar formulae introducing other parables about the kingdom of heaven); the point of comparison in all these cases is not strictly the noun which follows but the parable as a whole: it is not the man who sowed who is compared to the kingdom of heaven, but the situation resulting from his sowing. We might paraphrase, ‘This is what it is like when God is at work.’ 2530 The weeds are probably darnel, a poisonous plant related to wheat and virtually indistinguishable from it until the ears form. To sow darnel among wheat as an act of revenge was punishable in Roman law, which suggests that the parable depicts a real‐life situation. A light infestation of darnel could be tackled by careful weeding, but mistakes would easily be made. In the case of a heavy infestation the stronger roots of the darnel would be tangled with those of the wheat, making selective weeding impossible. Verse 30 summary: The young thistles and the young blades of wheat look the same and can’t be distinguished until they are grown and ready for harvest. Thistles (unbelievers) and wheat (believers) must live side by side in this world. God is allowing unbelievers to remain for a while just as a farmer allows thistles to remain in his field so the surrounding wheat isn’t uprooted with them. 

At the harvest, however, the thistles will be uprooted and thrown away. God’s harvest (Judgment) of all mankind is coming. We are to make ourselves ready by making sure our faith is sincere. Verses 3132: The Kingdom of Heaven is like a Mustard Seed The mustard was the smallest seed a farmer planted. Jesus used this illustration to show that the Kingdom has small beginnings but will grow and produce great results Barnes: Grain of mustard seed. The plant here described was very different from that which is known among us. It was several years before it bore fruit, and became properly a tree. Mustard, with us, is an annual plant; it is always small, and is properly an herb. The Hebrew writers speak of the mustard‐tree as one on which they could climb, as on a fig‐tree. Its size was much owing to the climate. All plants of that nature grow much larger in a warm climate, like that of Palestine, than in colder regions. The seeds of this tree were remarkably small; so that they, with the great size of the plant, were an apt illustration of the progress of the church, and of the nature of faith, Matt. xvii.20.

Young converts often suppose they have much religion. It is not so. They are, indeed, in a new world. Their hearts glow with new affections. They have an elevation, an ecstasy of emotion, which they may not have afterwards – like a blind man suddenly restored to sight. The sensation is new, and peculiarly vivid. Yet little is seen distinctly. His impressions are indeed more vivid and cheering than those of him who has long seen, and to whom objects are familiar. In a little time, too, the young convert will see more distinctly, will judge more intelligently, will love more 15 strongly, though not with so much new emotion, and will be prepared to make more sacrifices for the cause of Christ. R.T. France: (b) The mustard seed (13:3132). For is like, here and in v. 33, see on 13:24. The point is comparison is not the seed in itself, but what happens when it is sown. Mustard seed was proverbially minute (cf. 17:20, and Mishnah Niddah 5:2, etc.), though of course it is not literally the smallest known seed. The point of the parable lies in the contrast between this insignificant beginning and the greatest of shrubs which results. The expression is literally ‘greater than the vegetables’ and contrasts the full‐grown shrub (it normally grew to about 3 metres) with other edible garden produce. It is an exaggeration to call it a tree, but the language suggests that Jesus was thinking of the Old Testament use of the tree as an image for a great empire (see especially Ezk. 17:23; 31:3‐9; Dn. 4:10‐12; etc.). 

From these passages also comes the picture of the birds…in its branches; there the birds represent the nations gathered under the protection of the empire (Ezk. 31:6; Dn. 4:20‐22), and it is possible that Jesus’ words here envisage the coming of the Gentiles into the kingdom of heaven. But the main point lies simply in the huge extent of this kingdom which has developed from such unimpressive beginnings. Verse 33: The Kingdom of Heaven is Like Leaven 13:33 In other Bible passages, yeast is often a symbol of evil or uncleanness. Here it is a positive symbol of growth. Although yeast looks like a minor ingredient, it permeates the whole loaf. While the beginning of the Kingdom was small and nearly invisible, it would soon grow and have a great impact on the world. R.T. France: (c) The yeast (13:33). The theme is again of contrast between the tiny quantity of yeast and the size of its effect. Three measures of meal would be about 40 litres, which would make enough bread for a meal for 100 people, a remarkable baking for an n ordinary woman, but it makes a point vividly! Leaven (yeast) is usually in the Bible a symbol for the pervasive power of evil, but it is its pervasiveness, not its metaphorical connections, which is in view here. Hid is not the natural verb here, and must be designed to emphasize the secret, inconspicuous way the kingdom of heaven begins to take effect. So the three parables of growth all focus on the paradox of insignificant or hidden beginnings and a triumphant climax. In Jesus’ ministry this was a real issue: for those outside the disciple group it affected the credibility of an announcement of God’s reign which had apparently little to show for it; for the disciples there was the natural impatience to see God’s kingdom in all its glory, and the total eradication of all that opposed it. To them, and to us today who may expect God to act dramatically and without delay, Jesus points out that the full growth (harvest, mustard plant, leavened dough) is assured from the moment the seed is sown, however unpromising its appearance and whatever opposition it may meet in its development. The way of God is not that of ostentation but of ultimate success. Little is great where God is at work. 16 33. The kingdom of heaven. This, here, means the same as in the last parable; perhaps, however, intending to denote more properly the secret and hidden nature of piety in the soul. The other parable declared the fact that the gospel would greatly spread, and that piety in the heart would greatly increase. This declares the way or mode in which it would be done. It is secret, silent, steady; pervading all the faculties of the soul, and all the kingdoms of the world, as leaven, or yeast, though hidden in the flour, and though deposited only in one place, works silently till all the mass is brought under its influence. Three measures. 

These were small measures, (see the margin;) but the particular amount is of no consequence to the story. Nor is anything to be drawn from the fact that three are mentioned. It is mentioned as a circumstance giving interest to the parable, but designed to convey no spiritual instruction. The measure mentioned here probably contained about a peck and a half. PROPHECY AND PARABLES Matthew 13:3435 Again Jesus repeats the reason for parables so that his people will know the secrets from the foundation of the world. The Parable of the Tares Explained Verses 3643 Barnes: 3643. Declare unto us. That is, explain the meaning of the parable. This was done in so plan a manner as to render comment unnecessary. The Son of man, the Lord Jesus, sows the good seed; that is, preaches the gospel. This he did personally, and does now by his ministers, his providence, and his Spirit, by all the means of conveying truth to the mind. This seed was, by various means, to be carried over all the world. It was to be confined to no particular nation or people. The good seed was the children of the kingdom; that is, of the kingdom of God, or Christians. For those the Saviour toiled and died. They are the fruit of his labours. Yet amidst them were wicked men; and all hypocrites and unbelievers in the church are the work of Satan. Yet they must remain together till the end; when they shall be separated, and the righteous saved, and the wicked lost. The one shall shine clear as the sun; the other be cast into a furnace of fire‐ a most expressive image of suffering. 

We have no idea of more acute suffering, than to be thrown into the fire, and to have our bodies made capable of bearing the burning heat, and living on in this burning heat for ever and for ever. It is not certain that our Saviour meant to teach here that hell is made up of material fire; but it is certain that he meant to teach that this would be a proper representation of those sufferings. We may be further assured that the Redeemer would not deceive, or use words to torment and tantalize us. He would not talk of hell‐fire which had no existence; nor would the God of truth hold our frightful images merely to terrify mankind. If he has spoken of hell, then there is a hell. If he meant to say that the wicked shall suffer, then they will suffer. If he did not mean to deceive mankind, then there is a hell; and then the wicked will suffer. The 17 impenitent, therefore, should be alarmed. And the righteous, however much wickedness they may see, and however many hypocrites there may be in the church, should be cheered with the prospect that soon the just shall be separated from the unjust, and that they shall shine as the sun in the kingdom of their Father. 13:4043 At the end of the world, angels will separate those who are evil from those who are good. 

There are true and false believers in churches today, but we should be cautious in our judgments because the final separation will be made by Christ himself. If you start judging, you may damage some of the good “plants.” It’s more important to judge our own response to God than to analyze others. 13:42 Matthew often uses these terms to refer to the coming judgment. The weeping indicates sorrow or remorse, and gnashing of teeth is the response to extreme anxiety or pain. Those who say they don’t care what happens to them after they die don’t realize what they are saying. They will be punished for living in selfishness and indifference to God. 13:43 Those who receive God’s favor stand in bright contrast to those who receive his judgment. 

A similar illustration is used in Daniel 12:3. Economic Parables: The Monetary Teachings of Jesus Christ By David Cowan The Parable of the Dragnet Matthew 13:4752 R.T. France: (c) The net (13:47‐50). This is the third parable with a formal explanation (vv. 4950). The fact that most of the explanation is repeated verbatim from vv. 40‐42 (even though the furnace is less appropriate to the disposal of fish than of darnel) indicates how closely the parables of the weeds and the net are linked in their theme. More precisely, the net echoes the last ‘act’ of the parable of the weeds, the sorting out of the good from bad. The net is the large ‘dragnet’ which is drawn between two boats or by ropes from the shore, collecting all fish and other creatures within the area covered, which must then be sorted out to remove the bad, i.e. those unsuitable for eating. The reference, as in the weeds, is not primarily to a mixed church, but to the division among mankind in general which the last judgment will bring to light. See further, on vv. 40‐42. (viii) Concluding parable: the householder (13:5153) While v. 52 is not normally listed as one of the parables of this chapter, it resembles them in the formula ‘is like’, the concern with the kingdom of heaven, and the homely illustration; structurally it stands in parallel with the introductory parable of the sower. 18 51. In v. 36 the disciples had asked for explanation. Jesus now checks that the teaching given specifically to them and not to the crowds has been effective. It has produced understanding. For this key word see vv. 13, 14, 15, 19, 23, above: it is the special prerogative of the disciple to whom the mysteries are revealed. 52. Therefore ought to refer back to v. 51; in that case the parable of the householder relates to the fact of the disciples’ understanding. This, and the fact that it speaks of every scribe, tells against the view that it is the Evangelist’s description of his own role. While grammateus normally denotes a scribe in the technical sense of a professional teacher of the Jewish law (5:20; 7:29; 8:19; etc.), this literal meaning seems hardly relevant to this context, and it is more likely that Jesus is designating his disciples (who had no formal training) as the ‘scribes’ of the kingdom of heaven. The teaching he has given has trained them. (Matheteutheis is from the same root as ‘disciple’, but in the passive is more naturally translated ‘instructed’ than ‘made a disciple’.)

In comparing them to a householder who brings out of his treasure…, Jesus is not merely describing them, but as usual in parables is challenging them to fulfil a role: they have received ‘treasure’ through his instruction; now they are to ‘bring it out’ in teaching others. What is new and what is old as a description of Christian teaching may include a dig at the Jewish scribes, who could produce only what was old! It also refers back to v. 35, where Jesus’ new teaching is identified as going back to ‘the foundation of the world’. It is new and revolutionary, but its validity lies in that it is grounded in God’s eternal truths, now at last brought to light. 53. Like the parallel formulae at the end of the other major collections of teaching (see on 7:28‐29), this verse both concludes the teaching and leads into the following narrative; there is no clear paragraph break, and the following verses will describe a mixed reaction to Jesus’ teaching which amply illustrates much of the teaching in the preceding parables about men’s response to the kingdom of heaven. (iv) and (vi) Three parables of growth; and explanation of the weeds (13:24‐33 and 36‐43) As with the sower, so now we shall deal with the second extended explanation together with the parable it explains, even though it is again separated from it in the text by a statement on the purpose of parables. (a) The weeds (13:24‐30, 36‐43). 

On the question of the authenticity of the explanations given in this chapter, see above, on vv. 18‐23. The explanation of the weeds, like that of the sower, takes up the details of the story in a way which has been dubbed ‘allegorizing’. Here again, however, it is hard to explain why the parable was told in this form if it was not intended that these details (as with the sower, not all details of the story receive an application) should be noted. The identification of the details in vv. 37‐39 does not involve any departure from what is apparently the intended theme of the parable, and should not therefore be dismissed as illegitimate. If Jesus did not intend the story to be so understood, what did he intend by it? There is no other obvious answer. It is true that the latter part of the explanation (vv. 40‐43) focuses on the final division rather than on the call for 19 patience which is prominent in the story, but it is precisely in the expectation of this ultimate division that the call for patience is grounded. The parable is usually understood as depicting the mixed character of the church, in which true and false believers coexist until the final judgment. But in Jesus’ own ministry this was not yet an issue, and in v. 38 the field is identified as ‘the world’ rather than the church. So the canvas is broader than the specific issue of church discipline. Jesus announced God’s kingdom, and this would lead many of his hearers to expect a cataclysmic disruption of society, an immediate and absolute division between the ‘sons of light’ and the ‘sons of darkness’, as the men of Qumran put it. Yet things went on apparently as before. It was to this impatience that the parable was primarily directed. God’s kingdom does bring division, and that division is final, but while it is already present in principle, its full outworking is for God to bring about in the final judgment, not for man to anticipate by human segregation. Of course this has its practical application to the search for a ‘pure church’ here on earth, but the perspective is wider. It is, as in the two following parables, that of the contrast between the present hiddenness of God’s kingdom and its future consummation, when the ‘righteous’, who are now barely distinguishable from the ‘sons of the evil one’, will ‘shine like the sun’ (v. 43).

This consummation will come at the final judgment, which comes into focus in vv. 40‐43. Here the explanation moves from the simple identification of details to develop more fully the brief climax of the parable. It thus brings into focus the fundamental division of men into two classes which we have seen to be basic to the whole chapter, and which was implicit in the parable. 36. For the significance of the house, see introductory remarks on ch. 13. 3739. This detailed ‘lexicon’ to the parable provides a handy guide to its interpretation without focusing on any one point or drawing out the overall application. The following verses will expand the role of the Son of man to be not only the sower, but the chief harvester, and owner of the kingdom (cf. 25:31ff., where similarly divine functions are accorded to the Son of man). For the world, see introduction to this section. For sons of the kingdom, see on 8:12; here it is not ironical. 40. The remaining verses develop the final scene of the story into a portrayal of the final judgment similar to that of 25:31‐46 (and cf. 13:49‐50). It focuses on the close of the age, the ultimate turning‐point when the period of the secret growth of God’s kingdom alongside the continued activity of the evil one will be brought to an end, and the new age which was inaugurated in principle in Jesus’ earthly ministry will be gloriously consummated. 41.

 Compare 24:31, where the Son of man sends out his angels (cf. also 16:27; 25:31) to gather the chosen. The two missions are necessarily complementary where there is an absolute division into two classes. Out of his kingdom does not necessarily imply that the ‘sons of the evil one’ were once in it, but that they will have no place in it when it is fully consummated (cf. 8:12). The kingdom which is here ascribed to the Son of man (as in 16:28; cf. 20:21) is in v. 43 ‘the kingdom of their Father’. These are not two separate kingdoms (one on earth, the other in 20 heaven, according to some commentators); the sharing of attributes between God the Father and the Son of man is typical of the judgment scenes of this Gospel (cf. 16:27‐28; 25:31ff.). All causes of sin (literally ‘stumbling‐blocks’) and all evildoers echoes the Hebrew text of Zephaniah 1:3 (see RSV mg. there), where it describes the objects of God’s eschatological judgment; here it corresponds to the ‘sons of the evil one’ (v. 38). The causes of sin are not things, but people, as in 16:23, where Peter is described by the same word (cf. the use of the cognate verb in 18:6). 42. The image of the furnace of fire derives from the parable itself (v. 30‐the darnel was useful fuel where wood was in short supply); it is not in its own right a New Testament image for hell (though fire alone is, of course, often so used). For weep and gnash their teeth, cf. 8:12. 43. 

The ultimate glory of the ‘sons of the kingdom’ is described in imagery which reflects Daniel 12:3, and which contrasts strikingly with their previous ‘hiddenness’ during the period of ‘growing together’. For he who has ears, let him hear, see on 11:15. The Parable of the Wise and Foolish Virgins Matthew 25:113 Vines Greek Dictionary: 25:1ff Jesus gave the following parables to further clarify what it means to be ready for his return and how to live until he comes. In the story of the bridesmaids (25:113), we are taught that every person is responsible for his or her own spiritual condition. The story of the talents (24:14‐30) shows the necessity of using well what God has entrusted to us. The parable of the sheep and goats (25:31‐46) stresses the importance of serving others in need. No parable by itself completely describes our preparation. Instead, each paints one part of the whole picture. 25:1ff This parable is about a wedding. In Jewish culture, a couple was engaged for a long time before the actual marriage, and the engagement promise was just as binding as the marriage vows. On the wedding day the bridegroom went to the brides’ house for the ceremony; then the bride and groom, along with a great parade, returned to the groom’s house where a great feast took place, often lasting a full week. These bridesmaids were waiting for the parade, and they hoped to take part in the wedding banquet. But when the groom didn’t come when they expected, five of them let their lamps run out of oil. By the time they had purchased extra oil, it was too late to join the feast. When Jesus returns to take his people to heaven, we must be ready. Spiritual preparation cannot be bought or borrowed at the last minute. Our relationship with God must be our own. R.T. France: 14. 

Then clearly links the parable with the preceding warning; it is not a description of the kingdom of heaven in general, but of what will happen when God’s sovereign purpose reaches its climax in the parousia of the Son of man. The details of the story 21 are not all clear, as contemporary wedding customs are not fully known. The maidens may be attendants of the bride, or servants in the bridegroom’s home, or perhaps friends and neighbors. (The term ‘bridesmaids’ in our heading is not necessarily to be read in a modern cultural context!) They are waiting to escort the bridegroom in festal procession, probably in the last stage of the ceremonies as he brings his bride home for the wedding feast. It is apparently a torchlight procession, the lamps probably being ‘torches’ (of oil‐soaked rags wrapped on a stick) rather than standing lamps, which are described by a different word in 5:15 and 6:22; the word used here regularly means ‘torch’.1 The addition ‘and the bride’ at the end of v. 1 (see RSV mg.) has early MSS support, but is more likely to have been added to complete the picture (a wedding without a bride is odd‐ but Jesus is not telling a complete story!), than to have been omitted by a church which had learnt to think of itself as the ‘bride of Christ’ (Eph. 5:23‐32). 5. Jeremias (PJ, pp. 172‐174) argues plausibly that the bridegroom was delayed by protracted negotiations over the financial settlement. The theme of the delayed coming has appeared already in 24:48, and will return in 25:19; it was no doubt already an issue when Matthew wrote – how could an ‘imminent’ coming be so long delayed? This parable, like the last (see 24:50), insists that delay is no excuse for not being ready at any time. That the girls slumbered and slept (‘nodded off and were sound asleep’ would get the sense of the Greek tenses) is no fault in itself, for both ‘wise’ and ‘foolish’ did so; during the ‘delay’ life must go on, and we cannot live on constant alert. 

The difference was whether they had already prepared for the summons, or had left preparation to the last minute, when it would be too late. 610. Trimmed their lamps is literally ‘put their torches in order’. They are lighting them for the procession. Well‐soaked torch would burn for a quarter of an hour or so, but those with no oil were no sooner lit than they went out. The rebuff given by the wise to the foolish (which should probably read more strongly than RSV: ‘Certainly not; there will never be enough…’) is not a charter for selfish unconcern for others, but its presence in the parable may be intended to remind us that no‐one can ultimately rely on another’s preparedness. The formal finality of the door was shut again hardly fits the atmosphere of a village wedding, but effectively makes the point that there is a ‘too late’ in God’s time‐table (cf. Heb. 3:7‐4:13). 1112. The application increasingly colors the story. The girls’ appeal and the bridegroom’s response recall the chilling words of 7:22‐23; here, as there, I do not know you is a decisive formula of rejection, rather than a mere statement of fact (which could hardly to true of half of the bridal procession!). The formula of 22:14, ‘Many are called, but few are chosen’, would aptly sum up the point, which is similar to that of 22:11‐13: it is not enough to be ‘in the act’, to be a professing disciple; the disciple must also be prepared for the ultimate encounter. How we are to prepare, this parable does not specify, but the next one will take up this point. 13. This verse summarizes the message of the whole section which began in 24:36. It does not literally fit the story of the parable just told (neither wise nor foolish ‘stayed awake’ ‐ which is what watch literally means), but uses a different metaphor to drive home the call for constant readiness. 22 The Parable of the Talents Matthew 25:1430 R.T. France: (vi) The parable of the talents (25:1430) The theme of ‘being ready’, which dominated the last section, is still at the centre of this parable, which again portrays a ‘coming’ and its consequences of those who should have been preparing for it. But this parable takes up the question which that of the bridesmaids left unanswered: what is ‘readiness’? It is not a matter of passively ‘waiting’, but of responsible activity, producing results which the coming ‘master’ can see and approve. For the period of waiting was not intended to be an empty, meaningless ‘delay’, but a period of opportunity to put to good use the ‘talents’ entrusted to his ‘slaves’. The English use of ‘talent’ for a natural (or supernatural) aptitude derives from this parable, and represents a common application of it to the need to ‘live up to our full potential’. 

But of course the Greek talanton is simply a sum of money, part of the story‐content of the parable, and our interpretation should not be influenced by the subsequent use of the word in English. In the context of Jesus’ ministry the sums of money entrusted to the slaves are more likely to represent not naturally endowments given to men in general, but the specific privileges and opportunities of the kingdom of heaven. The opportunities open to a disciple may differ in character and magnitude, but they are all to be faithfully exploited before the master returns. ‘Readiness’, therefore, consists in having already faithfully discharged our responsibilities as disciples, whether they have been small or great. It is the master who allocates the scale of responsibility; the slaves’ duty is merely to carry out faithfully the role entrusted to him. A similar parable in Luke 19:12‐27 makes essentially the same point, though it differs substantially in detail. The two are usually regarded as variant versions of the same original parable of Jesus, though opinions differ as to which might in that case be closer to the original. It is, however, at least possible that Jesus should have told similar stories on more than one occasion, changing the details in order to emphasize different areas of application for different audiences. At any rate, each should be interpreted on its own terms, not by means of the other. 1418. For indicates a close link with the theme of 24:36 – 25:13 and particularly with the exhortation of v. 13. Slaves (servants is the usual English euphemism for this word) often rose to positions of great influence and responsibility (cf. 18:23 ff.; 21:34‐36; 24:45ff.). 

Even so, the sums entrusted to them are huge: a talent varied from place to place, and depending on the metal used for monetary purposes, but it was generally regarding as equal to 6,000 denarii (for which see on 20:1‐7), so that in terms of modern purchasing power it represents thousands of pounds (cf. on 18:23‐34). The allocation of these huge sums according to ability is not only commercial sense, but recognizes that God reckons with his people as individuals whose circumstances and personalities differ. The third servant failed to recognize his master’s intention, and substituted security for service. To that (mistaken) end his action was entirely appropriate: ‘Money can only be guarded by placing it in the 23 earth’, observed a later Rabbi (Baba Metzia 42a). But cf. 13:44 for the possible result! 1923. For the long time, see on 25:5. Settled accounts makes it clear that they had been given the money specifically for trading – the profit accruing was no unexpected bonus, but was what was intended from the start (cf. the idea of Lk. 17:10). The ‘reward’ of faithful discharge of this responsibility is ‘not a wellendowed pension, but even greater responsibility’ (Schweizer, p. 471). It may be significant that both slaves receive identical commendations, despite the different scale of responsibility originally given to them; their achievement has been proportionately the same, however different their original endowment. Enter into the joy of your master is hardly commercial language (not even in GNB’s more mundane version, ‘Come on in and share my happiness’!); here, as in v. 30, the application is again creeping into the telling of the story. 2428. The third servant has simply failed to grasp the nature of his responsibility. His failure is due not so much to laziness as to ‘a sort of religious and oriental fatalism’ (Bonnard). Underlying this was his view of his master (which the latter accepts with a grim irony in v. 26) as a ‘rapacious capitalist’ (Beare). Of course this characterization is not an allegorical description of God, anymore than the less‐thanideal characters who represent God in other parables (Lk. 11:5‐8; 16:8; 18:2‐5; etc.).

Even on this unflattering view of his master, however, his action was irresponsible; it represents a discipleship which consists of playing safe, and so achieving nothing (contrast 10:39), ‘a religion concerned only with not doing anything wrong’ (Schweizer, p. 473). ‘Being ready’ consists not only in keeping your slate clean, but in active, responsible, faithful service which produces results. 2930. Verse 29 is a repetition of 13:12 (see comments there). In v. 30, as in 24:51, the story has been ‘invaded’ by its application, and the traditional description of the fate of the wicked (cf. 8:12; 13:42, 50) makes explicit that the parable is to be understood (as vv. 21, 23 had already hinted) in terms of the ultimate basis of salvation or condemnation. 25:15 The master divided the money up among his servants according to their abilities‐no one received more or less money than he could handle. If he failed in his master’s assignment, his excuse could not be that he was overwhelmed. Failure could come only from laziness or hatred for the master. Money, as used here, represents any kind of resource we are given. 

God gives us time, abilities, gifts, and other resources according to our abilities, and he expects us to invest them wisely until he returns. We are responsible to use well what God has given us. The issue is not how much we have, but what we do with what we have. 25:21 Jesus is coming back‐we know this is true. Does this mean we must drop our jobs in order to serve God? No, it means we are diligently to use our time, talents, and treasures in order to serve God completely in whatever we do. For a few people, this means changing professions. For most of us, it means doing our daily work out of love for God. 25:2430 This last man was thinking only of himself‐playing it safe and protecting himself from his hard taskmaster. He was judged for his self‐centeredness. We must not make excuses to avoid what God calls us to do. 

If God truly is our Master, we must obey willingly. Our time, abilities, and money aren’t our in the first place‐we are caretakers, not owners. When we ignore, squander, or abuse what we are given, we are rebellious and deserve to be punished. 25:29, 30 This parable describes the consequences of two attitudes to Christ’s return. The worker who diligently and usefully prepares for it by investing his time and talent to serve God will be rewarded. The worker who has no heart for the work of the Kingdom will be punished. God rewards faithfulness. Those who bear no fruit for God’s Kingdom cannot expect to be treated the same as the faithful. The Son of Man Will Judge the Nations Matthew 25:3145 25:29, 30 This parable describes the consequences of two attitudes to Christ’s return. The worker who diligently and usefully prepares for it by investing his time and talent to serve God will be rewarded. The worker who has no heart for the work of the Kingdom will be punished. God rewards faithfulness. Those who bear no fruit for God’s Kingdom cannot expect to be treated the same as the faithful. 25:3146

God will separate his obedient followers from pretenders and unbelievers. The real evidence of our belief is the way we act. To treat all persons we encounter as if they are Jesus is no easy task. What we do for others demonstrates what we really think about Jesus’ words to us‐feed the hungry, give the homeless a place to stay, visit the sick. How well do your actions separate you from pretenders and unbelievers? 25:32 Jesus used sheep and goats to show the division between believers and unbelievers. Sheep and goats often grazed together but were separated when it came time to shear the sheep. Ezekiel 34:17‐24 also refers to the separation of sheep and goats. 25:3440 This parable describes acts of mercy we all can do every day. These acts are not dependant on wealth, ability, or intelligence; they are simple acts freely given and freely given. We have no excuse to neglect those who have deep needs, and we cannot hand over this responsibility to the church or government. Jesus demands personal involvement in caring for others’ needs (Isaiah 58:7). 25:40

There has been much discussion about the identity of the “brothers.” Some have said it refers to the Jews; others say it refers to all Christians; still others say it refers to suffering people everywhere. Such a debate is much like the lawyer’s earlier question to Jesus, “Who is my neighbor?” (Luke 10:29). The point of this parable is not the who, but the what‐the act of serving where service is needed. The focus of this parable is that we should love every person and serve anyone we can. Such love for others is glorifying God, because it reflects our love for him. 25:46 Eternal punishment takes place in hell, the place of punishment after death for all those who refuse to repent (5:29). In the Bible, three words have been translated “hell.” 25 (1) Sheol is used in the Old Testament to mean the grave, the place of the dead, generally thought to be under the earth. (See Job 24:19; Psalm 16:10; Isaiah 38:10.) (2) Hades is the Greek word for the underworld, the realm of the dead. It is the word used in the New Testament for Sheol. (3) Gehenna was named after the valley of Hinnom near Jerusalem where children sacrificed by fire to the pagan gods (see 2 Kings 23:10; 2 Chronicles 28:3). This is the place of eternal fire (Mark 9:43) prepared for the devil, his angels, and all those who do not believe in God (25:46; Revelation 20:9, 10). This is the final and eternal state of the wicked after the resurrection and the Last Judgment. When Jesus warns against unbelief, he is trying to save us from agonizing punishment. The Parables of the Workers Paid Equally An Illustration of the Kingdom of Heaven Matthew 20:116 (vi) The parable of equal wages for unequal work (20:116)

F. W. Beare appropriately entitles this story ‘The Eccentric Employer’. It is not meant to reflect normal economic practice, nor to be a pattern for labour relations. In an age of unemployment (cf. Josephus, Ant. xx. 219‐220), when there was no state security to fall back on and no trades union power to protect the worker, when an employer could literally ‘do what he chose with what belonged to him’ (v. 15), the employer’s action in taking on additional workers whose productivity could not possibly match the wage they were paid may be understood as ‘the behaviour of a large‐hearted man who is compassionate and full of sympathy for the poor’ (Jeremias, PJ, pp. 37, 139). The essential point of the parable is that God is like that; his generosity transcends human ideas of fairness. No‐one receives less than they deserve, but some receive far more. But this generosity is offset by the very natural resentment of those who received only a fair wage. To whom then is this parable addressed? Can we identify those represented both by the lucky late‐comers and by the jealous regular workers? Parables are characteristically open‐ended, and a general rule for their interpretation is, “If the cap fits, wear it!’ 

But sometimes it is possible and helpful to envisage the situation which originally gave rise to them. In this case an important clue may be the similarity of this parable to that of the Prodigal Son, which is also structured around the contrast between the one who receives (and deserves) fair treatment and the one who deserves nothing but is given everything, and the jealousy which results. As that parable was aimed at the religious leaders who objected to Jesus’ acceptance of tax collectors and sinners (Lk. 15:1‐3), the same could well be the original aim of this parable; God’s grace to the undeserving should be a cause for joy, not for jealousy. At a later date the same message would properly apply to the acceptance of Gentiles into the people of God. 26 HOW TO HANDLE MONEY WHEN GOD CHOOSES TO BLESS YOU (OR WHAT COMES WITH OBEDIENCE) Instructions to the rich (I Timothy 6:17‐19) Verse 17‐ Command‐ continuous repeated action. To charge‐ to hand on a message Those who are rich‐ wealthy, abounding In this present age‐ world in which we live Not to be haughty‐ high mind‐arrogant‐to be lofty in mind Nor to trust‐ confide in or to expect (Jeremiah 9:23, 24) In uncertain riches‐ wealth, money, passions, abundance But in the living God, who gives us all things richly‐ abundantly To enjoy‐ to take advantage or pleasure to be obtained (Ecclesiastes 5:18‐20) Verse 18‐ Let them do good‐ God’s benefit towards man (Acts 17:14) That they may be rich‐ wealth, rich In good works‐ unacceptable, virtuous, honest, worthy, works‐toil – occupation, effort, labor Ready‐ liberate – good at imparting To distribute‐ good at imparting; willing to koinonia – to share Communicate‐ to share Verse 19‐ Storing‐ laying – ongoing – to treasure away (Matthew 6:19‐21) Up for themselves A good foundation‐ something put down – substructure of a building Against the time or for the time to come‐ in the sense of purpose, the idea of expectation That they may lay hold‐ subjunctive mood – action has not yet occurred – of eternal life. Following God’s financial principles draws us closer to Christ.

Jesus Christ promised to give us the keys to the KINGDOM OF HEAVEN Matthew 16:1819 27 Verse 18‐ build to edify; to be a builder; growth church: the word is mentioned only in the New Testament, and only 3 times in the Gospels; twice in 18:17 Greek ekklesia: a calling out community of saints; the Greeks used the word to gather to discuss affairs of the state. The church of the Body of Christ: Ephesians 1:22; 5:23 I Will Build My Church The church is a theocracy, not a democracy Prevail; be victorious 16:18 The rock upon which Jesus would build his church refers either to Jesus himself (his work of salvation by dying for us on the cross), to Peter (the first great leader in the church at Jerusalem), or to the confession of faith that Peter gave and that all subsequent true believers would give. Peter later reminds Christians that they are the church built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets with Jesus Christ as the chief Cornerstone (1 Peter 2:4‐6).

 All believers are joined into this church by faith in Jesus Christ as Savior, just as Peter expressed here (see also Ephesians 2:20, 21). Jesus was praising Peter for his confession of faith. It is faith like Peter’s that is the foundation of Christ’s Kingdom. The Gates of Hades shall not prevail Vines Greek Dictionary: HADES, the region of departed spirits of the lost but including the blessed dead in periods preceding the Ascension of Christ). It has been thought by some that the word etymologically meant the unseen (from a, negative, and eido, to see), but this derivation is questionable; a more probable derivation is from hado, signifying allreceiving. It corresponds to “Sheol” in the O.T. In the A.V. of the O.T. and N.T., it has been unhappily renderd “Hell,” e.g., Psa. 16:10; or “the grave,” e.g., Gen. 37:35; or “the pit,” Num. 16:30, 33; in the N.T. the Revisers have always used the rendering “Hades;” in the O.T. they have not been uniform in the translation, e.g., in Isa. 14:15, “hell” (marg., “Sheol”); usually they have “Sheol” in the text and “the grave” in the margin. It never denotes the grave, nor is it the permanent region of the lost; in point of time it is, for such, intermediate between decease and the doom of Gehenna. For the condition, see Luke 16:23‐31. The word is used four times in the Gospels, and always by the Lord, Matt. 11:23; 16:18; Luke 10:15; 16:23; it is used with reference to the soul of Christ, Acts 2:27, 31; Christ declares that He has the keys of it, Rev. 1:18; in Rev. 6:8 it is personified, with the signification of the temporary destiny of the doomed; it is to give up those who are therein, 20:13, and is to be cast into the lake of fire, ver. 14. 28 Note: In 1 Cor. 15:55 the most authentic mss. have thanatos, death, in the 2nd part of the verse, instead of Hades, which the A.V. wrongly renders “grave” (“hell,” in the marg.). R.T. France 18. 

And I tell you, with the pronouns standing out emphatically in the Greek, marks out the following words as Jesus’ reciprocal response to what Peter has just said. Peter has declared Jesus’ true significance; now Jesus in turn reveals where Peter stands in the working out of God’s purpose. And as Peter’s confession was encapsulated in a title, ‘Messiah’, so Jesus now sums up Peters’ significance in a name, Peter. It is not now given for the first time, for Matthew has used it throughout in preference to ‘Simon’ (which never occurs without ‘Peter’ until v. 17), and Mark 3:16 and John 1:42 indicate that it was given at an earlier stage. What Jesus here reveals is its significance. It was apparently an original choice by Jesus, for no other use of Petros (or the underlying Aramaic kepa, ‘Cephas’) as a personal name is known before this; now he reveals why he chose it. It describes not so much Peter’s character (he did not prove to be ‘rock‐like’ in terms of stability or reliability), but his function, as the foundation‐stone of Jesus’ church. The feminine word for rock, petra, is necessarily changed to the masculine petros (stone) to give a man’s name, but the word‐play is unmistakable (and in Aramaic would be even more so, as the same form kepa would occur in both places). It is only Protestant overreaction to the Roman Catholic claim (which of course has no foundation in the text), that what is here said of Peter applies also the later bishops of Rome, that has led some to claim that the ‘rock’ here is not Peter at all but the faith which he has just confessed. The word‐play, and the whole structure of the passage, demands that this verse is every bit as much Jesus’ declaration about Peter as v. 16 was Peter’s declaration about Jesus. 

Of course it is on the basis of Peter’s confession that Jesus declares his role as the church’s foundation, but it is to Peter, not to his confession, that the rock metaphor is applied. And it is, of course, a matter of historic fact that Peter was the acknowledged leader of the group of disciples, and of the developing church in its early years. The foundation‐stone image is applied in the New Testament primarily to Christ himself (1 Cor. 3:10ff; 1 Pet. 2:6‐8; etc.), but cf. Ephesians 2:20; Revelation 21:14 for the apostles as foundation. One of the chief objections to the authenticity of this passage is that talk of ’building a church’ betrays an ecclesiastical interest which would be impossible during Jesus’ ministry. But this is to read all the later connotations of ekklesia (‘church’) into a word which in terms of its Old Testament background (where LXX used it to translate Heb. qahal, one of the regular terms for the ‘congregation’ or ‘community’ of God’s people) would be completely appropriate to describe the ‘Messianic community’ of the disciples of Jesus. Indeed, ‘a Messiah without a Messianic Community would have been unthinkable to any Jew’ (AB, p. 195). The building metaphor is the natural one to use in connection with the name Petros, and does not demand the idea of a full‐blown hierarchical structure. (It may also reflect the expectation that the Messiah would rebuild the temple, for which see on 26:61.)

The new community of the purified people of God was at the heart of John the 29 Baptist’s mission, and was the necessary outcome of Jesus’ ministry, with its effect of dividing men according to their faith or unbelief (see esp. introduction to ch. 13, above, pp. 215‐216). What is striking is not so much the idea of ‘building a community’, but the boldness of Jesus’ description of it as my community, rather than God’s. The gates of Hades (RSV mg.) occurs in Isaiah 38:10 (representing Heb. ‘gates of Sheol’); Wisdom 16:13 and other Jewish sources, where it means the same as ‘the gates of death’ (Ps. 9:13; 107:18; etc.), the place of the dead. To say that the powers of death (so RSV, correctly) shall not prevail against the community is thus to say that it will not die, and be shut in by the ‘gates of death’. The words do not indicate an attack by the ‘powers of evil’, but simply the process of death. Still less does the text support the picturesque idea of an attack on death’s gates by the church. (What could this mean? A sort of descensus ad inferos by the church?!) So Peter is to be the foundation‐stone of Jesus’ new community of the restored people of God, a community which will last forever. Verse 19: Keys KLEIS, a key, is used metaphorically (a) of “the keys of the kingdom of heaven,” which the Lord committed to Peter, Matt. 16:19, by which he would open the door of faith, as he did to Jews at Pentecost, and to Gentiles in the person of Cornelius, acting as one commissioned by Christ, through the power of the Holy Spirit; he had precedence over his fellow‐disciples, not in authority, but in the matter of time, on the ground of his confession of Christ (ver. 16); equal authority was committed to them (18:18); (b) of the “key of knowledge,” Luke 11:52, ie., knowledge of the revealed will of God, by which men entered into the life that pleases God; this the religious leaders of the Jews had presumptuously ‘taken away,’ so that they neither entered in themselves, nor permitted their hearers to do so; (c) of “the keys of death and of Hades,” Rev. 1:18, R.V. (see HADES), indicative of the authority of the Lord over the bodies and souls of men; (d) of “the key of David,” Rev. 3:7, a reference to Is. 22:22, speaking of the deposition of Shebna and the investiture of Eliakim, in terms evidently Messianic, the metaphor being that of the right of entrance upon administrative authority; the mention of David is symbolic of complete sovereignty; (e) of “the key of the pit of the abyss,” Rev. 9:1; here the symbolism is that of competent authority; the pit represents a shaft or deep entrance into the region (see ABYSS), from whence issued smoke, symbolic of blinding delusion; (f) of “the key of the abyss,” Rev. 20:1; this is to be distinguished from (e): the symbolism is that of the complete supremacy of God over the region of the lost, in which, by angelic agency, Satan is destined to be confined for a thousand years. 16:19 This verse has been a subject of debate for centuries. 

Some say the “keys” mean the authority to carry out church discipline (18:15‐18), while others say the keys give the authority to announce sins as forgiven (John 20:23). Still others say the keys may be the opportunity to bring people to the Kingdom of Heaven by presenting them with the message of salvation found in God’s Word (Acts 15:7‐9). 30 The religious leaders thought they held the keys to the kingdom, and they tried to shut some out. All three interpretations are acceptable. We cannot decide to open or close the Kingdom of Heaven for others, but God uses us to help others find the way inside. To all who believe in Christ and obey his words, the Kingdom doors are swung wide open. Christ has the keys of Hades and death Revelation 1:18 Bind‐ to forbid Loose‐ allow to be done AUTHORITY 19. Not only is Peter to have a leading role, but this role involves a daunting degree of authority (though not an authority which he alone carries, as may be seen from the repetition of the latter part of the verse in 18:18 with reference to the disciple group as a whole). The image of keys (plural) perhaps suggests not so much the porter, who controls admission to the house, as the steward, who regulates its administration (cf. Is. 22:22, in conjunction with 22:15). The issue then is not that of admission to the church (which is not what the kingdom of heaven means; see pp. 45‐47), but an authority derived from a ‘delegation’ of God’s sovereignty. That authority is exercised in binding and loosing, which were technical terms for the pronouncements of Rabbis on what was or was not permitted (to bind was to forbid, to loose to permit). This verse therefore probably refers primarily to a ‘legislative’ authority in the church, though clearly such decisions must have direct implications as to what may or may not be forgiven, and this application will be taken up in 18:18. (It is this latter aspect which is expressed in the apparently similar saying of Jn. 20:23) 

An early instance of Peter’s exercise of this authority was when he was chosen to pioneer and authorize the church’s acceptance of Gentile converts (Acts 10 – 11; cf. Acts 15:7‐11). Shall be bound and shall be loosed are literally future perfects (‘shall have been bound’ and ‘shall have been loosed’), and as the future perfect sounds as stilted in Greek as in English, the tense is apparently deliberate. In that case it is not that heaven will ratify Peter’s independent decisions, but that Peter will pass on decisions that have already been made in heaven. Verse 20 16:19 This verse has been a subject of debate for centuries. Some say the “keys” mean the authority to carry out church discipline (18:15‐18), while others say the keys give the authority to announce sins as forgiven (John 20:23). Still others say the keys may be the opportunity to bring people to the Kingdom of Heaven by presenting them with the message of salvation found in God’s Word (Acts 15:7‐9). 31 The religious leaders thought they held the keys to the kingdom, and they tried to shut some out. All three interpretations are acceptable. We cannot decide to open or close the Kingdom of Heaven for others, but God uses us to help others find the way inside. 

To all who believe in Christ and obey his words, the Kingdom doors are swung wide open. 16:20 Jesus warned the disciples not to publicize Peter’s confession, because they did not fully understand what kind of Messiah he had come to be – not a military commander but a suffering servant. They needed to come to a full understanding of Jesus and their mission as disciples before they could proclaim it to others in a way that would not precipitate rebellion. They would have a difficult time understanding what he came to do until his earthly mission was complete. 20. For Jesus’ commands to silence, see above on 8:4. Here the subject is specifically his Messiahship. Verses 21‐23 will show how even Peter had not yet grasped the true nature of Jesus’ mission, as one of rejection ad suffering rather than popularity and triumph. The danger of misunderstanding in a wider circle was much greater (see on 14:22), and the explicit use of the nationalistically loaded term Christ (‘Messiah’) could only foster such misguided enthusiasm and so hinder Jesus’ true mission. Peter’s confession, properly understood, was true and God‐given, but the title ‘Christ’ alone, without the interpretation which v. 21 gives to it, was worse than inadequate.

WHO IS THE GREATEST IN THE KINGDOM OF HEAVEN?

Matthew 18:15 18:1 From Mark’s Gospel we learn that Jesus precipitates this conversation by asking the disciples what they had been discussing among themselves earlier (Mark 9:33, 34). 18:14 Jesus used a child to help his self‐centered disciples get the point. We are not to be childish (like the disciples, arguing over petty issues), but rather childlike, with humble and sincere hearts. Are you being childish or childlike? 18:2 The disciples had become so preoccupied with the organization of Jesus’ earthly kingdom, they had lost sight of its divine purpose. Instead of seeking a place of service, they sought positions of advantage. How easy it is to lose our eternal perspective and compete for promotions in the church. How hard it is to identify with the “little children” – weak and dependent people with no status or influence. (i) True greatness (18:15) Mark 9:33‐34 records a dispute among the disciples over their relative importance, which gives rise to Jesus’ teaching on true greatness. In Matthew the issue is presented as a more ‘academic’ question, but the principle is drawn out more explicitly. 32 1. The disciples’ question begins in the Greek with a particle meaning ’so’. Jesus’ words in 17:25‐26 have opened up a new vista: if Jesus claims a special relation with the ‘king’ of heaven, how do the authority structures of this new kingdom of heaven relate to those of ‘the kings of the earth’? It is not, then, a question merely about church hierarchies, still less about grades of importance in heaven after this life, but about the whole principle of the evaluation of importance in God’s sight. (See above, pp. 45‐47, on ‘the kingdom of heaven’.) 

Human societies treat questions of rank very seriously; how then are they to be treated in God’s society? 23. Jesus’ answer is typically graphic and radical. It amounts to a total reversal of human value scales. A child was a person of no importance in Jewish society, subject to the authority of his elders, not taken seriously except as a responsibility, one to be looked after, not one to be looked up to. To turn and become like children is therefore a radical reorientation from the mentality of the rat‐race to an acceptance of insignificance. The AV translation ‘be converted’ is not correct if it suggests a technical theological meaning for the verb strephomai (‘turn’), but it point appropriately to the radical nature of the change involved (cf. Jn. 3:3 for a similar image). It is, then, the status of the child that is the point, rather than any supposedly characteristic quality of children, such as humility, innocence, receptiveness or trustfulness (and how many parents would regard the first two as characteristic of children?). 4. The emphasis we have seen in vv. 2‐3 is here made explicit. True greatness is to be found in being little, true importance in being unimpressive. That is what the kingdom of heaven does to the world’s scale of values. Humbles himself does not refer to an arbitrary asceticism or a phoney false modesty; it does not describe a character‐trait (ICC says children are ‘untempted to self‐advancement’ – really?), but the acceptance of an inferior position (as Jesus did, Phil. 2:8, where the same phrase is used). 5. The ‘child’ of vv. 2‐4 represents the ‘little ones’ (insignificant believers) of vv. 6, 10, 14, and in this verse the transition has already begun. One such child therefore is not a reference to children as such, but to those who as Jesus’ followers (in my name), whether young or adult, have accepted the child’s status. The ‘greatness’ of such ‘children’ (v. 4) lies in their relationship to Jesus. (Cf. 25:31‐46 for the principle of receiving Jesus in receiving his ‘little ones’.) 

One application of this principle might be, as Gundry (p. 361) suggests, to ‘acceptance of little people, “average” Christians and especially youth, by ecclesiastical leaders’. 33 POWER OF CHOICE Begin With Yourself. “Your relationships can only be as healthy as you are.” ‐ REMEMBER – REMEMBER… We have the right to choose… Neil Clark Warren We have the right not to choose… But none of us have the right to choose the consequences of our choices. However…not to choose IS to choose. CONCLUSION Where is the Kingdom of Heaven? The Kingdom of Heaven has no physical boundaries. Wherever there is someone walking in obedience to Jesus Christ, there you will find the Kingdom. Jesus said, “Where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them.” Matthew 18:20 What the Kingdom of Heaven is not The Kingdom is not made up of a particular race or family or nationality. Whosoever shall do the will of our Father in heaven, the same is our brother, and sister, and mother. Matthew 12:50 The Kingdom is neither Jew nor Greek, bond nor free, male nor female, for ye are all one in Christ Jesus. Galatians 3:28 The Kingdom of Heaven is not a building. John 4:21‐24 The Kingdom of Heaven is not a corporation of the state. John 15:4

The ancient scriptures predicted the Kingdom of Heaven. The New Testament proclaims that it has arrived! 34 Jesus didn’t bring us religion. He brought us a nationality. As many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name; Which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God. John 1:12‐13 I. In John the Baptist John the Baptist first comes forward with the announcement that the kingdom of heaven is at hand (Mt. 3:2) and Jesus takes this message over from him (Mt. 4:17). When John the Baptist and, after him, Jesus himself proclaimed that the kingdom was at hand, this proclamation involved an awakening cry of sensational and universal significance. 

The long‐expected divine turning‐point in history, the great restoration, however it was conceived at the time, is proclaimed as being at hand. It is therefore of all the greater importance to survey the content of the NT preaching with regard to the coming of the kingdom. II. In the teaching of Jesus a. Present aspect Jesus’ proclamation of the kingdom follows word for word on John’s, yet it bears a much more comprehensive character. After John the Baptist had watched Jesus’ appearance for a considerable time, he began to be in doubt whether Jesus was, after all, the coming One whom he had announced (Mt. 11:2f.; 4;12; 14:3). Jesus’ proclamation of the kingdom differs in two respects from that of the Baptist. In the first place, while it retains without qualification the announcement of judgment and the call to repentance, it is the saving significance of the kingdom that stands in the foreground. In the second place‐and here is the pith and core of the matter‐he announced the kingdom not just as a reality which was at hand, something which would appear in the immediate future, but as a reality which was already present, manifested in his own person and ministry. Although the places where Jesus speaks explicitly of the kingdom as being present are not numerous (see especially Mt. 12:28 and parallels), his whole preaching and ministry are marked by this dominant reality.

 In him the great future has already become ‘present time’. As appears clearly from this last‐quoted word of power, all this is founded on the fact that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God. The kingdom has come in him and with him; he is the autobasileia. Jesus’ self‐revelation of the Messiah, the Son of man and Servant of the Lord, constitutes both the mystery and the unfolding of the whole gospel. The gospel of the kingdom is still revealed only as a seed which is being sown. In the parables of the sower, the seed growing secretly, the tares among the wheat, the mustard seed, the leaven, it is about this hidden aspect of the kingdom that Jesus instructs his disciples. The Son of man himself, invested with all power by God, the One who is to come on the clouds of heaven, is the Sower who sows the Word of God. 35 III. Kingdom and church The kingdom is thus related to the history of the church and of the world alike. A connection exists between kingdom and church, but they are not identical, even in the present age. The kingdom is the whole of God’s redeeming activity in Christ in this world; the church is the assembly of those who belong to Jesus Christ. Perhaps one could speak in terms of two concentric circles, of which the church is the smaller and the kingdom is the larger, while Christ is the centre of both. This relation of the church to the kingdom can be formulated in all kinds of ways. The church is the assembly of those who have accepted the gospel of the kingdom by faith, who participate in the salvation of the kingdom, which includes the forgiveness of sins, adoption by God, the indwelling of the Holy Spirit, the possession of eternal life. 

They are also those in whose life the kingdom takes visible form, the light of the world, the salt of the earth; those who have taken on themselves the yoke of the kingdom, who live by their King’s commandments and learn from him (Mt. 11:28‐30). The church, as the organ of the kingdom, is called to confess Jesus as the Christ, to the missionary task of preaching the gospel in the world; she is also the community of those who wait for the coming of the kingdom in glory the servants who have received their Lord’s talents in prospect of his return. The church receives her whole constitution from the kingdom, on all sides she is beset and directed by the revelation, the progress, the future coming of the kingdom of God, without at any time being the kingdom herself or even being identified with it. Therefore the kingdom is not confined within the frontiers of the church. Christ’s Kingship is supreme above all. Where it prevails and is acknowledged, not only is the individual human being set free, but the whole pattern of life is changed: the curse of the demons and fear of hostile powers disappears. The change which Christianity brings about among peoples dominated by nature‐religions is a proof of the comprehensive, all‐embracing significance of the kingdom. It works not only outwardly like a mustard seed but inwardly like leaven. It makes its way into the world with its redeeming power. The last book of the Bible, which portrays Christ’s Kingship in the history of the world and its advancing momentum right to the end, especially illuminates the antithesis between the triumphant Christ‐King.

Subjects and End Times

dougmorneau@marzany.com (Doug Morneau) — Sat, 24 May 2025 19:46:12 GMT

GOOD MORNING BEAUTIFUL BRIDE OF JESUS CHRIST

" The early church turned the world upside down and God can do it again .”

Acts 17:6

“ The Lord will not teach you anything new until you obey what you already know." ~~ Stephen Olford

“ The Church of Jesus Christ today has little resemblance to Jesus Christ Himself." ~~ Charles Price

1. Christians are the body of God’s Temple. I Cor. 3:16,17

2. God inhabits or dwell in the praises of His people. Ps. 22:3

3. God has only called two things the apple of His eye:

a. Israel – mentioned over 2500 times; Deut. 32:10

b. His Word – Prov. 7:2

“ If the Holy Spirit left the early church, 95% of what was happening would stop; if the Holy Spirit left the church today, 95% of what was happening would continue .” ~~ A. W. Tozer

“ A Gospel that does not deal with the issues of the day, is not the

Gospel at all." ~~ Martin Luther

Martin Luther’s belief in his quote changed the world: “The just shall live by his faith." Hab. 2:4

THIRTY END TIMES SIGNS

SOME OF WHICH HAVE OCCURRED AND SOME ARE OCCURING TODAY AND OTHERS STILL TO COME

The Bible is approximately:

1/3 history past

1/3 doctrine present

1/3 prophecy future

“Blessed is he that readeth and they that hear the words of this prophecy, and keep those things which are written therein; for the time is at hand." Rev. 1:3

SUBJECTS:

1. The Vital Importance of a Biblical Worldview. Only 8% of Christians have one. (Barna)

2. Why did God Choose the Jewish People and Israel? Gen. 12:1-3

3. What You should Know about the Coming New World Order?

4. A Biblical Worldview of the Israel – Hamas War.

5. Apostasy or falling Away is a Major Sign of End Times. Jesus said so in Matt. 24:10-14. False prophets are mentioned in every book in the New

Testament except Philemon. The Book of Jude tells us how to live in a time of apostasy.

6. There are over 100 Bible verses dealing with:

God will destroy the earth by fire
God will come against all who turn against Israel
God will turn away from nations who turn their back on God

7. Do the following countries have a role in End Times?

China – yes, although not by name
Iran – Russia – Turkey and others yes, Ezekiel chapters 36-39
U.S.A. – no

What about the Roman Empire?

8. Will there be a famine of the teaching of God’s Word in End Times? Amos 8:11-13

9. Jesus Christ said He would return when the days were like the days of Noah: Matt. 24:36-38. What were the days of Noah like?

Anti-God
Sexual immorality
Violence (hamas in Hebrew)

10. Revival of the Hebrew language, which was not communicated after the Temple was destroyed in 70 A.D. and the Jewish people scattered

throughout the world with no homeland for 2000 years. Zephaniah 3:9 written about 2600 years ago, said that a pure language would arise. Now

Hebrew is spoken worldwide.

11. The language had to be restored because Israel had lost their homeland in 70 A.D. The Book of Isaiah, written about 2800 years ago said Israel would be restored in one day. This occurred on May 14, 1948.

12. Rebuilding of the Jewish Temple which will occur in the first 3 ½ years of the Tribulation period. Daniel 9. The “Jerusalem Post” reports that all of

the vessels for the Temple are ready. And today, for the first time in 2000 years, there are pure red heifers in Israel which are required for sacrifice.

(The Wall Street Journal) Numbers 19:2-7

13. The Eastern Gate. This gate has been closed for about 1600 years; Ezekiel 44:1-3. This gate will not be opened until after the 1000 year reign when

Christ returns with His Church. Zech. 14:1-4. King Hussein of Jordan who controlled East Jerusalem and declared he would open the gate for the

Muslims in June 1967. The Six Day War was started and Israel regained control of the East Gate.

14. There are two judgments coming:

The Bema judgment, for Christians, not for sin but for works; II Cor. 5:10. There are five crowns to be given out.
The Great White Throne Judgment; Rev. 20:11-15 where it is eternal damnation for non-believers.

15. City of Damascus will be totally destroyed. Isa. 17:1 According to “The New York Times”, Damascus is 50-60% destroyed today. It is the most

uninhabitable city in the world. (United Nations)

16. God’s purpose for earthquakes is usually a warning. In 2024, 14,175 earthquakes recorded. (Wikipedia)God will destroy our world as we

know it today, with an earthquake that will bring down mountains and produce hailstones up to 100 pounds or more in weight. Rev. 16:16-20

The Battle of Armageddon.

17. The Word of God tells us that there are two major rivers which will dry up in End Times:

Euphrates – Rev. 16:12, which is approximately 50 – 60% dried up! (The New York Times)
Nile – the Nile River is approximately 1/3 dried up today; France. 24 Zech. 10:11; Isa. 19:5-10; Ezekiel 30:12

18. Will there be a worldwide revival before Jesus Christ returns? Israel is the wife of God; Isaiah 54:5-7. This is an awesome study.

19. What is the mystery of the shewbread? Paul gives us 7 godly principles to live by in End Times, outlined in II Tim. 3:10. The word ‘purpose’ is

translated 4 times as ‘shewbread’, in the New Testament. Jesus Christ is Lord and is our purpose for living. Matt. 12:4; Mark 2:28; Luke 6:4;

Heb. 9:2. This is a very in-depth, powerful study.

20. What is the importance of Lebanon in the Bible, as mentioned 23 times? The city of Tyre, which is the 5th largest city will be destroyed. Ezekiel

36. Israel completely destroyed the city in 2024. “Israel left Tyre a ghost town” ~~ Reuters News

21. There are 14 mysteries or secrets in the New Testament, known only to believers; Col. 1:24-27. 7 apply to life today and 7 apply to the future and

some of both.

“ Christians today need to be informed about the various mysteries because ALL the deeper matters of Scripture are predicated upon

understanding them .”~~ John Malone

22. God only names 2 things as “apple (pupil) of His eye”. Why?

Israel – Deut. 32:10
His Word – Prov. 7:2

23. What is the abomination of Desolation? Matt. 24:15-29

24. What happened to the preaching of repentance? Only 10% of Pastors preach repentance today, according to Barna. Repentance is the

foundation of Christianity. Heb. 6:1. Repentance can cause God to change His mind; eg. Jonah – Jonah 3:10

“ Repentance does not end with salvation." ~~ Dr. Martyn-Lloyd Jones, whose preaching saved Wales from becoming the first European country

from Communism, as reported by the secular press.

25. Egypt in prophecy. God strikes Egypt by giving them over to civil war and submission to a cruel master. Isa. 19:1-4

26. “In the Last Days, there will be a highway from Egypt to Assyria. I know this because it is stated very clearly in Isaiah 19. Most believers don’t

know or haven’t studied this prophecy. It’s unfortunate because this passage is so encouraging for believers – especially people who are

invested in what God’s doing in Israel. There will be a massive spiritual awakening. Israel will be included in this!

There is a mysterious construction project taking shape in Egypt – here’s what we know”. ~~ Joel Rosenberg

“ A large patch of land is being bulldozed and a wall is being built in the buffer zone between Egypt and Rafah .” ~~ New York Times

27. Jesus Christ details the coming woes in End times in Matthew 24:1-14. (see Solomonsporchteaching.com for complete teaching)

All these signs which are occurring today are the” beginning of sorrows” (birth pangs).

28. The biggest decision you will ever make to avoid eternal hell is to know the Lord Jesus Christ as your personal Saviour. John 3:14-21

so that you will never hear the worst 7 words ever said to man: “Depart go away) from me, I never knew you. Matt. 7:21-23

29. One of the 14 mysteries which I mentioned earlier, is the Second Coming of Jesus Christ, as found in I Cor. 15:51,52; I Thess. 4:13-18

30. Remember Jesus last words when HE promised HE will return! Acts 1:6-11 and HE will send the Holy Spirit when all these things begin to happen.

“ And there shall be signs in the sun and in the moon and in the star; and upon the earth distress of nations, with perplexity; the sea and

the waves roaring; Men’s hearts failing them for fear, and for looking after those things are coming on the earth, for the powers of heaven shall be shaken. And then shall they see the Son of man coming in a cloud with power and great glory. And when these things begin to come to pass, then look up and lift up your heads; for your redemption draweth night." Luke 21:25-28

Final Instructions from Paul: II Timothy chapter 3 outlines 18 signs of the times in the Last Days and all are in effect today globally.

Perilous (stressful) times will come and they are here today globally. Why?

We have a form of godliness (to be devout) but we are denying (a present tense; to disown a person, opposed to an action). We are denying the

power of the Holy Spirit.

Power is the word used for the Holy Spirit. 60% of Christians today do not believe the Holy Spirit is God or in the Trinity, according to Barna.

Many other people will turn away.

All Scripture is given by the inspiration of God and we are to accept by faith and obey.

MY DEEP PRAYER CONCERN.

We need a spiritual revival, like China is having today. “We’re already deep in the Last Days”, according to Joel Rosenberg.

“ Another sign is what’s happening in China. Despite the government’s tyrannical oppression, one of the greatest spiritual

awakening is happening among the Chinese people. A 2023 Boston University study estimates that the Christian community in China has grown from one million to 100 million over the last four decades. This means that in the past 40 years, Christianity has grown faster in China than anywhere else in the world. The prophetic reason for this can be found in Isaiah 49 which talks about the large number of people from China that will come to know the Lord “in the last days.” That’s exactly what we’re seeing. This understanding of our times should prompt us to pray for our brothers and sisters in China, Israel and through the Epicenter. It should also stir our heart to act ." ~~ Joel Rosenberg

China is not mentioned by name in the Bible but many believe it is the land with the 200 million army that will cross the River Euphrates; Rev. 16:12

“ The sixth angel poured out his bowl on the great river, the Euphrates; and its water was dried up, so that the way would be prepared for the kings

from the east." Rev. 16:12.

It’s difficult to image that the Euphrates, one of the mightiest rivers on the planet, will completely dry up and become the pathway for hostile armies

headed to Armageddon. The secular sources are already talking about it. In 2009, the New York Times reported that the Euphrates River was drying

up.

China in prophecy – “ Behold, these shall come from far; and lo, these from the north and from theist; and these from the land of Sinim .” Isa. 49:12

“Sinim”: or “Shyrene/Aswan” refers to a ‘far’ country to the ‘east’, the verse mentions north and west, which means the location of Sinim might

indicate either south or east. Where is the land known as Sinim in Bible? The most likely candidate for the land of Sinim does indeed seem to be China, although that time there was no China.

www.solomonsporchteaching.com

4/2025

A Biblical Worldview: How God Tells Us to Approach Trials

ryan.barbieri@gmail.com (Ryan Barbieri) — Sun, 11 May 2025 00:55:45 GMT

This is Life-changing

Bible sales are booming and at an all-time high because people are looking for meaning in life.

How Then Shall We Live Today?

Chapter 3

As hard as it is to acknowledge, we must remember that there are no good people in the absolute sense of the

word. All of us are tainted by and infected with sin (Ecclesiastes 7:20, Romans 3:23, 1 John 1:8). As Jesus said, no one is good except God alone. All of us feel the effects of sin in one way or another. Sometimes it is our own personal sin, and other times it is the sin of others. We live in a fallen world, and we expect the effects of the fall. One of those effects is injustice and seemingly senseless suffering.

The Bible Clearly Identifies This Question and Gives Answers in 3 Ways:

1. The Problem

2. The Promise

3. The Provision

I call this God’s University of Adversity. If we obey this teaching, we can graduate with a PHD.

“Behold, I will do something new, now it will

spring forth; will you not be aware of it? I will

even make a roadway in the wilderness, rivers in

the desert.”

– Isaiah 43:19

Without God, there are no roads in the wilderness.

Without God there are no rivers in the desert.

The Problem

Why do we have problems and where do they come from?

1. Problems, for mankind, began with the

disobedience of Adam and Eve in the garden

and it is called SIN (Genesis 2).

2. God gave Adam and Eve five commands to follow:

• Be Fruitful (Genesis 1:28)

• Replenish (Genesis 1:28)

• Exercise a Dominion (Genesis 1:28, Genesis 2:15)

• Refrain from eating the fruit from the Tree

of Good and Evil (Genesis 2:17)

• Multiply (Genesis 1:28)

3. When Adam and Eve sinned, because God is a HOLY, SOVEREIGN, OMNIPRESENT GOD - which means He, as the Creator, has

the right to do anything—He chose what He did because He cannot tolerate sin.

4. The sin of Adam and Eve introduced three major types of disobedience, and mankind is involved in these sins today:

• Lust of the flesh

• Lust of the eyes

• Pride of life (Genesis 3:6, 1 John 2:15-17)

“Trials teach us who we are. They dig up the soil and let us see what we are made of.”

– Charles Spurgeon

“True faith is not going to get you out of a hard place, but to change your heart out of a hard place.”

– David Wilkinson

“The Bible was not given for our information but for our transformation.”

– Dwight L. Moody

“God does not expect the impossible from us. God wants us to expect the impossible from Him.”

– Dwight L. Moody

“We all face storms in life. Some are more difficult than others, but we all go through trials and tribulations. That is why God gives us the

gift of faith.”

– Joyce Meyer

The Promise

The Vital Importance of a Biblical Worldview:

“A worldview is the most important thing that we know about a man or a woman.”

– Richard Weaver

“A Biblical world view approach to life and learning has never been more needed than in today’s Pluralistic/Postmodern culture.

Christians today face hostility to their faith from one side and apathy from anything of importance on the other side. Sadly, the casualties are high.”

– Chuck Edwards

Part of God’s promise is that in the world today we will have trials and tribulations (John 16:33, 2 Timothy 3:12, John 15:20, Psalms 34:17-19).

“The Lord will test the righteous. The greater the test, the greater the calling of God on your life.”

– Ravi Zacharias

The Provision

Very important. The only way a person can experience the provision of God is to have a personal relationship

with God. This opportunity is simply to accept Jesus Christ as your personal Savior for the forgiveness of sins and life everlasting (John 3:14-21).

God’s Way of Provision for Handling a Problem James 1:2-8: This is a life-changing provision experience. Trust me, I know. This provision includes trials of all kinds, whether it be:

• Financial

• Business

• Health

• Marriage

• Family

• Personal

Verse 1:

James 1:2-8: Strong Recommendation – Read out loud as often as necessary as a prayer to the Lord.

How to Profit From Trials or How Shall We Then Live?

Verse 2:

COUNT (to lead the way/to have rule over/to be chief)

The Jewish-culture believer believed that the more trials you have the closer you are to God. Paul, in 2 Timothy 3:12, teaches that trials are part of a godly life.

JOY (Calm delight/cheerfulness/exceeding gladness)

The joy with which we endure trials in the present is a signal of hope for future relief.

FALL INTO (to fall into something that surrounds you/to light upon you)

Like the story of the Good Samaritan, you may not even have caused the trial. Read the Good Samaritan story

(Luke 10:25-37). Remember, Jesus taught that the two greatest commandments were:

1. To love God with all of your heart/soul/mind. Remember your body is the Temple of the Holy Spirit who lives within you

(1 Corinthians 3:16-17, 6:18-20).

2. To love (agape) others as you love yourself. DIVERS (various in character) TEMPTATIONS (adversity, trials with a benefi cial

purpose and effect)

The Lord knows how to deliver the godly out of trials and temptation (2 Peter 2:7-9). The Lord knows (which means to understand/divine knowledge, see Matthew 6:8).

Verse 3:

KNOWING THIS (to understand/to realize)

THE TRYING OF YOURSELF (trying means to test)

What is faith? “Faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen” (Hebrews 11:1).

How important is faith? “Without faith it is impossible (impotent) to please God but He rewards those who

diligently seek Him” (Hebrews 11:6). Faith is a gift that God gives us, but we have to use it to make it grow (Romans 12:3).

PATIENCE (abiding under)

Patience perfects the Christian character, so let patience have her perfect work. Patience is the ability to persevere through increasing levels of trials.

Verse 4:

PERFECT WORK

“But let endurance and steadfastness and patience have full play, and do a thorough work, so that you may be perfectly and fully developed lacking in nothing.”

– The Amplified Bible

WANTING NOTHING – Jesus promised in Matthew 6:24-34 where He tells us to put God’s Kingdom first and all will be given to us.

“Worry is a sin and can produce anxiety/fear/disease and even mental illness.”

– The Dake Annotated Reference Bible

“What happens when you worry? Your mind and body go into overdrive as you constantly focus

on WHAT MIGHT HAPPEN.”

– Web MD

Verse 5:

WISDOM/IF

There are about 1600 “ifs” in the Bible and the word usually means that someone has to make a decision. God asked King Solomon what he wanted, and Solomon’s answer was found in 1 Kings 3:3-15:

“Lord, give your servant an understanding mind.”

God asks us the same question with a promise and

instructions:

• We are to ask (which means call up or to do something).

• Giveth: Giveth is a present participle which means continual or repeated action with no indication of timing. In other words, it’s up to

God.

• Liberally (unconditional supply)

Verse 6:

FAITH

Faith is our choice because if we do not ask in faith we are like a wave in the sea.

“Ask” is a present imperative which means a command to do something, including continuous or repeated

action.

Matthew 7:7-8 tells us to keep on asking, keep on seeking and keep on knocking.

Verse 7: If we do not follow the principles of verses 2-6, we will

receive nothing from the Lord. WHY?

Verse 8:

Because we are double-minded (two-spirited), vacillating in our original purpose, and we are unstable (restless in our ways) (James 4:1-10). Loving the world means hating God.

Blaming Others/Not Forgiving

When you are hanging by a thread, make sure it is the hem of His garment.

Remember, as the Temple of God, the Lord calls you to such things as:

• A Holy Priesthood

• A Chosen Generation

• A Holy Nation

• A Peculiar People (the meaning of peculiar is acquisition or possession)

Our response to this is to PRAISE THE LORD (1 Peter 2:1-11).

The Good Samaritan Story (Luke 10:25-37) In Luke 10, a lawyer asked Jesus a question and He answered the question with a question (v. 26). Verses 27-29 tell us the story of a man travelling from Jerusalem to Jericho. This pathway of about 18 miles was known

as “the bloody way.” Jericho was home to about 12,000 priests and was a beautiful city fi lled with palm trees.

Jesus answers the question with a parable (verses 30-37).

The Samaritans were a blend of all kinds of mixed races and the Jewish people of the day had very little respect for them.

When the man fell amongst thieves three types of people passed by:

1. A priest, whose main occupation was to offer sacrifices, and he had no compassion for the wounded man.

2. A Levite: Levites were descendants of Levi. They kept a distinct separation from the other eleven tribes, so he obviously had little

compassion.

3. The Good Samaritan: The Good Samaritan shows us eight acts of mercy and compassion that we should show to others

even if we disagree with them. Eight is a number of new beginnings in the Bible:

1. Had compassion

2. Bound up his wounds

3. Poured in oil

4. Poured in wine

5. Set him on his own beast

6. Brought him to an inn

7. Took care of him

8. Offered to pay for his care if anything

more was needed

Jesus then sums up the parable by saying, “Go and do (likewise).” This is known as a present imperative which

means a continuous or repeated action. As the Temple of God, this is how Jesus Christ instructed us to live.

Holy Ground: Living as God's Temple

Thu, 24 Apr 2025 15:41:33 GMT

Solomon's Porch Teaching

Order the Book Here: Click HERE

Welcome to Solomon’s Porch Teaching – The Story of King Hezekiah & The Temple Within

��️ What happens when a king inherits a broken nation, a culture in decline, and a temple in ruins? He repairs the temple first.

��️ In this powerful episode, Barry Borthistle shares a stirring message about King Hezekiah—one of the most transformational leaders in the Bible—and how his story holds a mirror to our lives today.

�� You’ll also hear astonishing truths about how you are now God’s temple, fearfully and wonderfully made. As science reveals the wonders of our DNA, Scripture affirms our identity and purpose. This episode will awaken something deep within.

�� What you’ll hear today:

The surprising spark that started Barry’s study (hint: it wasn’t from a church)

The three-part design of your being—body, soul, and spirit

How Hezekiah restored a nation by restoring the temple

What it means to cleanse and sanctify your life in today’s world

The deep symbolism behind the beloved hymn "We Are Standing on Holy Ground"

Why you are the temple—and how that truth changes everything

�� Dive deeper:

Go to https://solomonsporchteaching.com

Click on “Teaching” to find the full Hezekiah article near the bottom

Click on “Podcast” to hear this episode and more

➡️ Coming next: Meet Stan Fryer — A Modern-Day Hezekiah at 98 Years Old

You’ll hear how Stan discovered this truth and how it fuels his joy, activity, and purpose today. From pickleball to prayer, it’s a story you won’t want to miss.

�� Today’s benediction chorus, sung by Dave, is from the Book of Jude—a musical blessing to close our time together.

�� May this episode bring you clarity, courage, and renewed faith.

You are not ordinary. You are God’s temple.

God bless you, and shalom,

Barry Borthistle

#SolomonsPorch #KingHezekiah #TempleOfGod #ChristianTeaching #FaithPodcast #BibleWisdom #BarryBorthistle #SpiritualGrowth #HolyGround #HezekiahStory

Your Body is God's Temple: A Podcast Series

Thu, 24 Apr 2025 14:55:26 GMT

CLICK BELOW TO LISTEN TO THIS 3-PART SERIES

Click H ere for This Series! https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLT49Uh3h6ouyW2wik-JUKjWqGNYMPTyXR&si=kzGynVskp5w7pQY4

Season 2 Episode 1: An Amazing Story that Applies to Every Person on Earth

dougmorneau@marzany.com (Doug Morneau) — Thu, 24 Apr 2025 00:44:56 GMT

But Many (If Not Most) Are Unaware

Show Notes:

One of the Most Amazing Stories You'll Ever Hear - Read More Here https://www.solomonsporchteaching.com/one-of-the-most-amazing-stories-you-ll-ever-hear

Season 2 Episode 3 Pickleball and the Presence of God: Stan Fryer at 98 Years Young

Wed, 23 Apr 2025 15:50:34 GMT

Solomons Porch Teaching Season 2 Episode 3

#TempleOfGod #HolySpirit #ChristianEncouragement

Welcome to Solomon’s Porch Teaching – with Ruth Borthistle & Stan Fryer

��️ This special episode is hosted by Ruth Borthistle, joined by the inspiring 98-year-old Stan Fryer — a man filled with wisdom, joy, and the presence of God.

�� Stan shares a powerful message rooted in the truth that our bodies are the temple of the Holy Spirit. He speaks from decades of walking with Christ, caring for his beloved wife through Alzheimer’s, and living out his faith daily with energy, courage, and contagious passion.

✨ In this heartfelt conversation, you’ll hear:

How Stan first met Jesus and discovered his identity as God’s temple

The 7 free gifts of the Holy Spirit and how they transform a believer’s life

What it means to keep the temple clean and walk in fortitude through trials

Lessons from 18 years of caregiving and a divine moment that changed everything

Why sharing Jesus—on the pickleball court or the dance floor—is Stan’s daily mission

Stories of joy, transformation, and how faith keeps him vibrant at 98

�� Yes, there’s even a story about pickleball you don’t want to miss!

�� This episode will encourage you, challenge you, and remind you that no matter your age or background, God wants to dwell in you and work through you.

�� Listen now and explore more teachings at:

https://solomonsporchteaching.com

�� Coming up next: The Story of King Hezekiah and the Restoration of the Temple – don’t miss it.

�� Stay to the end for a beautiful benediction chorus from Dave.

#FaithPodcast #SolomonsPorch #StanFryer #ChristianEncouragement #HolySpirit #TempleOfGod #PickleballAndPraise #98YearsYoung #ChristianTestimony #SolomonsPorchTeaching

12 Biblical Signs of the End Times + Biblical Principles on How to Live Today

Tue, 18 Feb 2025 21:44:14 GMT

Faith Based Ministry is now the number 1 podcast in the world. Joe Rogan is now #2. - Wall Street Journal

Bible Sales have nearly doubled since covid. Why? Many people are very concerned about the future and they are living in fear. - Bloomberg

www.solomonsporchteaching.com

The church of Jesus Christ today has little resemblance to Jesus Christ Himself. - Charles Price

The Lord will not teach you anything new until you obey what you already know. - Stephen Olford

The early church turned the world upside down and God can do it again (Acts 17:6). How? God responds to 3 things:

1. Repentance

2. Faith

3.Obedience

The true church never falls - Barry Borthistle

No one ever outgrows Scripture, as the Bible widens and deepens your desire for God. - Charles Spurgeon

We are the creed the world is needing. We are the Bible the world Is reading. We are the sermon the world is watching. - Billy Graham

About the Author

Barry C. Borthistle has led 6 different companies to the multi-million-dollar sales category. He has accomplished this in different sectors of retail and direct sales, both as an owner and as corporate leader. He is Co-founder of TriVita Inc. a global wellness company.

Barry is a great motivator, leadership teacher and growth expert for individuals and organizations. He is married to Ruth, who is the love of his life, with five children, 15 grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. He resides in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.

BUSINESS BACKGROUND

• Former president of a 200-million-dollar nutritional company, Enrich International

• Fifteen years climbing the corporate executive ladder with The Bay, Sears, and Canadian

Tire

• Thirty years self-employed, owned or began several small businesses in the retail sector

and in the direct-selling industry

• Co-founder and former President of The TriVita Way International, 1999-2007

• Six years as a pastor, Calvary Chapel

• Currently, Presidential Director, TriVita Inc.

AWARDS

• The Price-Waterhouse Recognition for New Start-up companies, 1996

• The prestigious Winston Churchill Award, 1997

• Featured in North America’s “Who’s Who in Business”, 1998, 2004

• Leading Health Professionals of the World, 2006

• Entrepreneurial Leadership Award, 2008, Trinity Western University, Langley, British Columbia

• Co-founder Award, TriVita, 2012

• Invited by Queen Elizabeth on the Royal Yacht Britannia in Boston Harbor to discuss business opportunities in the UK.

Why Do We Need Believers Authority?

By Andrew Wommack

“Many Christians have adopted a humanistic view of things. They do not realize the spiritual implication behind what is going on in their lives. What I mean by humanistic is that they only look at things on a surface level. They think most everything they encounter on a daily basis is either physical or natural. The truth is, there is a battle raging every single day in the spiritual realm. That battle is for your

heart and the hearts of every other person on earth. God is trying to influence people and draw them toward righteousness and toward Himself, to live consistent with Him so that His blessings can be manifest in their lives.

James 4:7-10. “Submit yourself, therefore, to God, and resist the devil and he will flee from you.”

To win in this war, you must know who you are and the authority you have as a believer.”

Remember that you are the temple of the Holy Spirit and this is why you have the authority as a believer. 1 Corinthians 3:16-17 and 1 Corinthians 6:17-20.

Why You Should Know What the Bible Says About the New World Order

Shalom, Barry

Are We Living in the Last Days?

What do we know about the last days? Probably not too much when you consider:

1. 60% of Christians under the age of forty claim that salvation can come through Jesus Christ/Buddha/Mohamed.

The Christian Headlines

2. 50% of church attendees do not know what the Great Commission is (Matthew 28:18-2).

Barna

3. Most Christians do not believe that the Holy Spirit is God.

Barna

4. Only 7% of the population of the world believes that the world will end in their lifetime.

Reuters

5. Harvard University elects their first atheist as their head chaplain.

6. The New World Order is a conspiracy theory. – Wikipedia

Perhaps you might be interested in learning what the Bible says about our future. The Bible is the world’s bestselling book by far, with over 6 billion sold. Mao is second with 800 million and third is Harry Potter at 400 million.

What Does the Bible Have to Say about the Future?

Ed Hinson (Liberty University)

1. There are about a thousand prophecies in the Bible.

2. About 500 have been fulfilled.

3. About 200 cover the events up to the second coming of Jesus Christ (rapture), when He comes for His saints (1 Thessalonian 4: 13-18, 1 Corinthians 15:51-58).

4. About 300 cover the tribulation period (7 years) with the New World Order, plus the thousand-year reign when Christ returns with His saints (Zachariah 14:1-4).

Ed Hinson goes on to say that he knows of no Biblical prophecy that must be fulfilled before the second coming of Jesus Christ.

Jesus said that He Would Return When the Days Were Like the Days of Noah (Matthew 24:36-44).

What were the days of Noah like? They were so wicked that God was sorry He had created the human race. Being a loving God, He gave them 120 years to repent and only 8 did (8 is the number of new beginnings, Genesis 6:1-8). Noah found grace in the eyes of the Lord, but we are given grace (Romans 12:3).

Dietrich Bonhoeffer, the great German pastor who died for his faith was asked how it was possible for the church to sit back and let Hitler kill 6 million Jews. His answer: “It was the teaching of cheap grace.” He went on to say that cheap grace is the preaching of forgiveness without requiring repentance, baptism, communion without confession. Cheap grace is grace without discipleship, grace without the cross, grace without Jesus Christ. We live in a time and a culture that not only teaches cheap grace but praises it.

Interesting that the first sermon of each of these was on repentance:

1. John the Baptist (Matthew 3:1-3)

2. Jesus Christ (Matthew 4:17)

3. Apostle Paul (Acts 2:38)

4. Like the early church, God can turn the world upside down again. How?

God responds to these three actions on behalf of the human race:

1. Repentance

2. Faith

3. Obedience

What is Next?

You must have a written vision and only 3% of people do. Where there is no vision, the people perish (the word perish means lack of restraint, Proverbs 29:18).

My vision began for me with the writing of my book, “Your Body is God’s Temple.” The book was motivated by a statement in the Wall Street Journal: God told Hezekiah to write a vision in the middle of a pandemic and Hezekiah obeyed and that vision changed the world forever.

4. Jesus Christ gave us many signs that would occur before His return (Matthew 24, Luke 21). Four major signs in Matthew 24:6-8:

1. Wars and rumors of wars. There are about forty wars going on today (Wikipedia). Rumors of wars: Consider the possibility of Iran/China/Russia/North Korea/Pakistan. Massive buildup of forces on the border of China and India (Counsel of Foreign Relations).

Keep in mind that the word “fire” is mentioned 27 times in Revelation. Now consider the countries that have nuclear weapons today:

1. USA

2. China

3. India

4. Pakistan

5. Israel

6. UK

7. France

8. North Korea

9. Russia

10. Iran desperately wants one

Consider today that the Taliban in Afghanistan now possess about 80 billion dollars of the latest and best USA military equipment. This translates into about 6 million different weapons, plus billions in cash.

2. Famine – World on the brink of the largest famine ever, according to the UN and Oxfam. Bloomberg - the largest food supplier in the USA is Sysco who say that their shelves are empty and cannot fill all orders for customers.

3. Pestilence/Pandemics/Plagues

These are mentioned over 100 times in the Bible. Joel Rosenberg (the Joshua Fund): “Most plagues in the Bible are God’s judgment

on a nation of people.” Jim Showers (Friends of Israel) says that all are a sign of God’s judgment.

4. Earthquakes. About twenty thousand earthquakes in the year 2020, which is 55 per day. – National Earthquake Center

How Did Jesus Christ instruct us to react to these four signs today? Matthew

24:5-8:

1. Expect false prophets to come.

2. Do not be troubled (frightened). These things must come but the end is not

yet.

3. This is the beginning of sorrows (birth pains).

Something to think about:

There has been a sudden decline in the world’s greatest power, which is the USA (and I love the USA. Lived and worked there for ten years). Since the USA is not mentioned in Biblical prophecy, should we be concerned?

A little history: Rome fell for three major reasons:

1. Financial debt (the world debt today is about 300 trillion and COVID-19 has cost about 24 trillion – the World Bank). The US debt, which is about 21 trillion today, is projected to reach 28 trillion by 2028, which is the year that China is projected to be the #1 economy in the world.

2. Government corruption.

3. Immorality: the porn industry is about a hundred-billion-dollar industry today worldwide. Barna, along with Josh McDowell, say that about 65% of men and 35% of women are on porn and about 50% of pastors are on porn. Porn hub in Montreal is the

largest porn distributor in the world with over a hundred million views per day. – CTV News

Years ago, I personally met with Josh McDowell and he said, and I quote, “pornography is the number one problem in the church today.”

4. Abortion: This has become a worldwide, major sin. Millions and millions of babies have been aborted around the world. In Psalm 139:14, God tells us that each of us are fearfully and wonderfully made. God also tells us that the shedding of innocent blood is one of the seven things that are an abomination to Him (Proverbs 6:19).

5.Why You Should Know What the Bible Says about the New World Order.

I have just finished a 35-page study manual on the New World Order, and it is very frightening. The New World Order will officially begin the day after Jesus Christ returns for His church (rapture).

It is time for a New World Order. It is time to move beyond Abrahamism. It is time to revalue all values. Every Abrahamic value should be scrapped, and replaced with rational values based upon mathematics, science, philosophy and psychology. Faith should be replaced by knowledge . - Adam Weishaupp

Adeel Raja recently made this quote on CNN. “WHAT THE WORLD NEEDS NOW IS A NEW HITLER.” CNN has cut ties with her.

In the New World Order, you will not be able to buy or sell anything unless you have the mark

of the beast, 666 (Revelation 13:11-18). The number 666 is a police code for a country-wide emergency in Canada. Could the proposed vaccine passport be a precursor for 666? THE PASSPORT IS NOT 666.

6. The Rise of Russia

What does Putin really want? The European Council on Foreign Relations said, “Russia does not intend to restore the Soviet Union but does sense the weakness of Western Powers.” Many Bible scholars say that Russia is the Gog and Magog of Ezekiel 38 and 39, and that the

country will lead the attack on Israel. If you take a world globe and run a string from Jerusalem to the North Pole the string will go right through Moscow.

8. The Rise of China is Very Obvious

World Bank: The GDP in China has averaged about 10% per year since 1978. It now ranks second only to the USA and is projected to be number 1 by 2028. China, like the United States, is not mentioned in Biblical prophecy. However, an army of 200 million men is mentioned in Revelation 9:13-21. This army leads the attack on Israel, where one third of mankind are killed by fire. The remaining two-thirds of mankind still do not repent of sin. The largest armies today:

1. China 2.2 mil

2. India. 1.4 mil

3. USA 1.4 mil

4. Russia 1.1 mil

For this attack from China, the great river Euphrates, which is one of the rivers flowing out of the Garden of Eden (Genesis 2:14) would have to be dried up for an army of 200 million to cross from the East and China is east of Israel (revelation 16:12-16). The river Euphrates is 2,800

kilometers long or 1,740 miles long.

New York Times: “The river Euphrates is about 50% dried up today and will continue to dry up. The situation is so serious in Iraq that some reports say that the water left is all sewage filled.”

(Think about this! John the Apostle, when he wrote Revelation, predicted this over 2,000 years

ago. Simply amazing.)

8.Did you know that the 10 plagues that God sent upon Pharoah to release the children of Israel are all repeated in the Tribulation period (Revelation 6-17)? God kept sending plagues until Pharoah obeyed. Think about that today.

9.The final two plagues that will finally destroy the Earth as we knew it today.

1. Hailstones a hundred pounds or more. The largest hailstone to fall on the Earth today was in Bangladesh in April 1996: 2 and a quarter pounds.

2. The largest earthquake ever will occur, and it will destroy all mountains and islands plus the cities of nations (Revelation 16:17-21) but praise the Lord the new earth and new heavens are coming (Revelation 21).

10.The Bible teaches that a nation that follows God does three things:

1. Repentance

2. Faith

3. Obedience

God can restore! King Josiah, (2 Kings 22 and 23).

Quotes from two men, both now with the Lord but way ahead of their time.

How should we then live?

– Francis Schaeffer.

Whatever happened to the Human Race? The basic problem of Christians in this country in the last 80 years or so, in regard to society and in regard to government, is that they have seen things in bits and pieces instead of totals.

- Francis Schaeffer

A Christian Manifesto: When a man comes under the bloom of Christ, his whole capacity as a man or woman is refashioned. His soul is saved, yes, but so are his mind and body. True spirituality means the lordship of Christ over

the total man.

- Francis Schaeffer

Christians who understand Biblical truth and have the courage to live it out can, indeed, redeem a culture, or even create one. This is the challenge facing all of us in the new millennium.

- Charles Colson

Capitalism is astonishingly efficient at generating new wealth. But it operates beneficially only when the market is shaped by moral forces coming from both the law and the culture which are both derived, ultimately, from the Word of God.

- Chuck Colson

How Do We Live Today?

3 Concepts for your consideration:

1. Jesus said occupy (do business) (Luke 19:13).

2. Paul gives us seven godly principles to live by in the End Times (2 Timothy 3:10). This is

very personal:

a) Doctrine (teaching of God’s Word). Doctrine is the number one inspiration given by God to us in 2 Timothy 3:16. Also, the first principle of church growth is doctrine (Acts 2:42).

b) Manner of life. How we live.

c) Purpose (A setting forth of human purposes). Purpose is also translated as showbread in four places including Matthew 12:38 (significance of the table of showbread: the table of showbread was a constant reminder of God’s everlasting covenant with His people and His provision for the 12 tribes of Israel, represented by the 12 loaves. Jesus is the bread of life (John 6:35). We

celebrate His work for us with communion.)

d) Faith: Without faith it is impossible (impotent) to please God (Hebrews 11:6).

e) Long suffering: Patiently lasting an offense or hardship.

f) Charity (love). Now abideth faith/hope/charity. But the greatest of these is

love (1 Corinthians 13:13).

g) Patience: An abiding under which grows in trials (James 1:2-8).

Here is a remarkable truth! If we live in the context of the seven mentioned godly principles,

here is a list of seven amazing spiritual authority results:

1. The word koindonia in Greek is interpreted with seven different words in English. Koindonia means sharing in common or partnership:

2. Fellowship (Acts 2:42).

3. Communion (2 Corinthians 13:14).

4. Communications (Philemon verse 6).

5. Contribution (Romans 15:26).

6. Distribution (2 Corinthians 9:13).

7. Partner (2 Corinthians 8:23).

As most of us know, the number seven is the number of completion or perfection and is mentioned over 700 times in the Bible. Challenge to all of us: the more we obey the seven principles of godly living, the more we will get our eyes off ourselves and on to others.

[Remember, this is all possible because your body is God’s Temple (1 Corinthians 3: 16-17, 1

Corinthians 6:17-20).]

Conclusion

What are Our Options for How to Live Today?

1. There are over 1500 “ifs” in the Bible. God has promised that He will heal our land which means divine intervention. Here are his instructions: 2 Chronicles 7:13-15, “God appeared to Solomon after the temple was completed because He knew that mankind

would disobey again.” God said:

IF I stop the rain. The world is in a drought crisis according to the Los Angeles Times.
IF I send locust. Billions of locusts are destroying food crops in about 60 countries today, according to the National Geographic.
IF I send pestilence. The world is now entering the fourth wave of COVID-19.

2. Here are God’s instructions to us as He desperately wants to heal (divine intervention) our land.

IF we will humble ourselves.
IF we pray.
IF we seek (worship).
Turn from our wicked ways, which means to repent.

3. Here’s how God will respond:

He will hear us
He will forgive our sins
He will heal (divine intervention) our land.

Full details on this exciting principle can be found in my book, Your Body is God’s Temple (Chapter 6 and 10).

“To recognize and receive the wondrous truth of being God’s Temple is the beginning of walking and living a supernatural life.” – Michael

Ellison

Where Does the Christian Spend the Rest of Their Life?

The New Jerusalem, which is also called:

1. Tabernacle of God

2. The Holy City

3. The Celestial City

4. The City Foursquare

5. Heavenly Jerusalem

All of this occurs after Satan has been bound and sent to Hell forever to be tormented day and night in the Lake of Fire (Revelation 20:1-10).

God’s final judgment has occurred, which is called the Great White Throne of Judgment, and you don’t want to go there.

There is a new earth coming (2 Peter 3:12-13). The new Jerusalem is best described in Revelation 21:

1. Fantastically huge. 1400 miles cubed (Revelation 21:15-17).

2. A new heaven and earth with a new Jerusalem adorned as a bride for her husband (verse 2).

3. There will be no more tears/sickness or sorrow.

4. There will be no sin (verse 8).

5. We will be presented as the bride of Jesus Christ (verse 9).

6. There are 12 Great High Walls with 12 angels at each wall, plus the names of the 12 tribes of Israel (verses 12-13).

7. The wall of the city has 12 gates, plus the names of the 12 disciples (verse 14).

8. Construction of the wall is jasper with streets paved with pure gold (verses 18-19).

9. The gates are with pearls (verse 21). There will be no need for the sun or stars because God illuminates the new Jerusalem through the Lamb who is Jesus Christ (verse 23).

10. We will spend our time bringing glory and honour to the Lamb (verses 24 and 26).

11. There will be no night (verse 29).

The number 12 in the Bible is the number of profession and authority.

How does one enter this incredible city? Verse 27: “Only those whose names have been written in the Lamb’s book of Life (Joel 3:1, Philippians 4:3, John 3:14-20).” Jesus is now preparing the New Jerusalem for us (John 14:1-4).

Please check our website solomonsporchteaching.com for updates on events, YouTube, and other social media platforms.

Feel free to contact me with questions, opinions, or if you have questions or would like a personal zoom teaching session: solomonsporchteaching@gmail.com.

REMEMBER, BEHAVIOUR FOLLOWS BELIEF. [God created Adam and Eve in a perfect environment but gave them the power of choice.]

“We all have the right to choose. None of us have the right not to choose. But not to choose is to choose. ” – Barry Borthistle

Shalom, and check out Genesis 12:1-3.

Barry's Story

dougmorneau@marzany.com (Doug Morneau) — Sun, 02 Feb 2025 18:47:43 GMT

MY STORY – BARRY BORTHISTLE

https://www.solomonsporchteaching.com

bborthistle@shaw.ca

As I write this, I am 81 years of age and thought at this age would be slowing down. However, God has other plans.

I am happily married to my gorgeous wife, Ruth. My first beautiful wife, Margaret, went to be with the Lord on May 29, 2000, passing to Glory from cancer.

Ruth and I are blessed with five wonderful children, all happily married and have given us 15 awesome grandchildren and 9 great grandchildren.

We were living a perfect life until Covid 19 which changed everything including losing 80% of our net worth, which was very substantial.

A new day dawned. I have always loved the Lord, and served Him as a Pastor and a successful businessman. However, I have never really had to trust God for very much in my life.

My first study was on what it meant to be God’s Temple; I Cor. 3:16,17; 6:17-20. The result was to write my first book, “Your Body is God’s Temple”, now for sale through Amazon.com or Trivita. The Apostle Paul in Colossians 1:24-27 wrote about this truth as the mystery that has been hidden from the ages and generations. New uncovered for all is the riches of the magnificence of this mystery, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory.

“To recognize and receive the wondrous truth of being God’s Temple is the beginning of walking and living a supernatural life”. ~~ Michael Ellison

The supernatural event took place when three friends, Jim Janz and Ken Hayes offered to pay for the editing and publishing of my book and Michael Ellison offered to pay for the advertising. We have many other supernatural events which we will share on our podcasts.

NEXT. When I began to realize and understand the authority that Christ gives us as His Temple, I wrote my second book. “Spiritual Authority” which changed my life. When Jesus Christ announced the coming Church in Matt. 16:18,19, He said 3 things:

 It is my Church

 I will build it

 I will give you the keys (competent authority) to the Kingdom of Heaven, which is God’s government on earth.

John the Baptist (Matt. 3:2) and Jesus Christ (Matt. 4:17) both had the same message – “Repent, for the Kingdom of Heaven is

at hand’.

But it is a mystery to the world. Matt. 13:11

I sent the draft of “Spiritual Authority” to the Christian Post, who have a wonderful daily website. They have edited the book and are now promoting to their database of 6 million along with our podcasts (on Edify) which extends to over 500,000. Michael Ellison’s podcast is now available to his database of over 100,000. I soon began to realize that even as we are God’s Temple and He has given us His authority, unless we have a relationship and are guided by the Holy Spirit, our efforts will be in vain. Remember when Jesus said, “I still have many things to say to you, but you cannot bear them now. However, when He, the Spirit of truth has come, He will guide you into all truth, for He will not speak on His own authority, but whatever He hears He will speak, and He will tell you things to come. He will glory Me for He will take of what is Mine and declare it to you.” John

16:12-14

The Holy Spirit will guide us into all truth on the authority that it will glorify Jesus Christ. I have now just completed my third book, outlining the 33 amazing, supernatural things He wants to do for us. This is life changing.

“”Without the Holy spirit, we are like a ship without a sail and can do nothing”.

~~ Charles Spurgeon.

I am now working on my fourth book, entitled “The Difference Between the Logos and Rhema Word of God."

“Wise leaders should have known that the human heart cannot exist in a vacuum. If Christians are forbidden to enjoy the wine of the Spirit, they will turn to the wine of the flesh…. Christ died for our heart and the Holy Spirit wants to come and satisfy them. If the Holy Spirit was withdrawn from the church today, 95% of what we do would go on and no one would know the difference. If the Holy Spirit had been withdrawn from the New

Testament church, 95% of what they did would stop and everybody would know the difference. The Spirit filled life is not a special, deluxe edition of Christianity. It is part and parcel of the total plan of God for His people.” ~~ A.W. Tozer

Here is our challenge. “About 67% of Americans say they are Christian but about 52% say that the Holy Spirit is not God”. ~~ Barna

I am now understanding what it means to ABIDE (dwell) in the Rhema (revealed) Word of God. “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths. Do not be wise in your own eyes. Fear the Lord, and depart from evil. It will be health to your flesh, and strength to your bones”.

Proverbs 3:5-8

“Now if God so clothes the grass of the field, which today is, and tomorrow is thrown into the oven, will He not much more clothe you, O you of little faith? Therefore do not worry, saying, ‘what shall we eat?’ or ‘what shall awe drink?’ or ‘what shall we wear’? For after all these things the Gentiles seek. For your heavenly Father knows that you need all these things. But seek first the Kingdom of god and His righte4ousness and all these things shall be added to you. Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about its own things. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble”. Matthew 6:30-34

Someone said you have to live it before you teach it!!

“Who will save us now that the monster Covid 19 has broken free? The pandemic has humbled the country and the world and has opened up

Millions of eyes to this risky universe once more. In the Old Testament, it would seem that men of Spiritual resources may not only Redeem catastrophe but turn the moment into A great creative opportunity. For societies founded on Biblical traditions, pandemics need not make for the end. This is call for repentance and revival. Great struggles can produce great clarity."

~~ The Wall Street Journal

Now is the time for Spiritual Authority! What is Spiritual Authority? One who learns spiritual authority in his or her life must recognize that the essential source of all authority is God. While many rely on their position granted to them by another human being, spiritual authority comes only from God. When you walk and live in the incredible truth that you are God’s Temple, spiritual authority, which God has promised, is life changing. To apply God’s spiritual authority to your life and circumstances, the one major ingredient you need is FAITH. It is impossible (impotent) to please God without faith. By faith, Noah build a ship in the idle of dry land. By faith, Abraham said yes to God’s call to travel to an unknown place that would become his home at age seventy-five. By faith, barren Sarah was able to become pregnant. By faith, George Mueller fed over 10,000 orphans. At this time, England was only looking after 3,600 orphans. By faith Mueller build five large orphanages. By faith, Mueller never asked anybody but God for money and millions of dollars came in.

My first book, “Your Body is God’s Temple” (available on Amazon.com or TriVita). The awesome truth that we are God’s Temple with the Holy Spirit living with us and because of this amazing truth, God gives us spiritual authority. Desperately needed today. God will heal our land (divine intervention or cure like a physician) IF we follow His spiritual authority, II Chronicles 7:13-15

“Every one of is searching for truth and accountability can dip into the deep well of this extraordinary book with confidence. I have known this man for many years and observed his ability and steadfast character. With insight and research, Barry takes us behind the curtain of the peripheral into the ancient reliability of meanings and events that nourishes the soul of the reader.” Read this book. It will awaken and satisfy your deepest yearnings. Then send a copy to a friend.”

- Endorsement from Dr. Peter J. Daniels, an international business statesman and world- renowned motivational speaker and the leading authority on leadership, self-development and goal setting. He has authored over fifteen books on the “How to” for attaining success from a Biblical perspective.

We must listen to the voice of God. This is a must-watch! It will give you hope.

By Chris Maynard https://bit.ly/3p8mDEA

EXPECT SUPERNATURAL BREAKTHROUGHS TODAY

“Your Body is God’s Temple”

“To get a nation back on its feet, we must get down on our knees” ~~ Billy Graham

“If you believe in prayer at all and expect God to hear your prayer, it will depend on your faith”.

~~ Charles Spurgeon”

TOP TIPS FOR CHRISTIAN LIVING ~~ C.S. Lewis

1. Possesses true humility – self help books not always bad but usually promote self.

2. Choose trust over originality. Always repeat the truth according to Scripture.

3. Pursue God over happiness. Catching a glimpse of God becomes more important than happiness.

4. Understanding progress often means turning back. ‘Turning back’ is the definition of repentance.

5. Listen to the Holy Spirit. Stand back and listen to the Holy Spirit.

BEHAVIOUR FOLLOWS BELIEF

Maybe we have reached the point where we need to give God a chance?

Barry Borthistle

bborthistle@shaw.ca

https://growthpartnernetworks.com

https://solomonspporchteaching.com

Barry's Zoom Bible Studies

dougmorneau@marzany.com (Doug Morneau) — Sat, 01 Feb 2025 19:40:48 GMT

With Pastor Shekhar who pastors a 100,000 member church in India.

Barry Borthistle led a Zoom Bible study with a church in Mumbai, India. Follow along with the recordings!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x2ubrB3ha2c

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H8Zm4MOFfWQ

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JP7fTtZx88g

Prayer for Israel

Mon, 04 Nov 2024 16:46:43 GMT

How To Live Your Life As God's Temple

Fri, 30 Aug 2024 21:01:18 GMT

How To Live Your Life as God's Temple

Do you want your Christian life to be effective and bear fruit? Put the Word of God to work. Follow the instructions in II Peter 1:2-9. Be diligent concerning God’s promises, exercise your faith to develop virtue, grow in knowledge, increase in self-control, be steadfast, practice Godliness and show Christian love

to others. How can you improve in these areas as you go about your everyday

activities and relationships?

My three books:

YOUR BODY IS GOD’S TEMPLE
SPIRITUAL AUTHORITY
33 TINGS THE HOLY SPIRIT WANTS TO DO FOR YOU

We are made up in three parts, spiritual, emotional and physical; I Thess. 5:23 and all 3 require daily nourishment.

“To recognize and receive the wondrous truth of being God’s Temple is the beginning of walking and living a supernatural life”. ~~ Michael Ellison

When you live as God’s Temple, He will give you keys, which means ‘competent authority’. Matt. 16:18,19. There are 14 mysteries in the New Testament and the spiritual authority principle is the first one being taught. Amazing! Matt. 13:11

There are at least 33 things the Holy Spirit will do for you, because you are His Temple. He is the power behind the God-given spiritual authority. Imagine that the Holy Spirit will pray for you!

Romans 8:26-28. However, it is very important to understand that the Holy Spirit desperately wants a relationship with us. Ephesians 4:23-32. And it is important to remember that the Holy Spirit is part of the Trinity:

God the Father
God the son
God the Holy Spirit

The Holy Spirit was sent by Jesus Christ in His last words on earth; Acts 1:7,8.

Grace and faith are gifts from God; Romans 12:3. Do not ask God for more grace and faith – thank Him and praise Him for what HE is giving you and then follow Him.

Peace is also a gift because Christ Jesus gave us His peace; John 14:27

Jesus promised to always be with us; His presence - Matt. 28:20

God has given us everything we need for life and godliness; II Peter 1:3.

Because of His Divine Power (dunamis, word for the Holy Spirit, meaning miraculous power), God has given us all things we need to live Godly lives.

We have the mind of Christ; I Cor. 2:16. Because we are the Temple of God, we can have true wisdom; I Cor. 2:6-16.

We are given great and precious promises to live by. There are approximately 3500 - 5000 promises in the Word of God, some research indicates even more. This is the vital importance of having a Biblical worldview for all of life. Only 8% of Christians have a Biblical worldview and only 2% of them teach their children,

according to Barna Research.

Virtue – moral goodness – went out from Jesus Christ and He healed a great multitude and cast our demons; Luke 6:17-19

Understanding that I am God’s Temple has radically changed my life. It will:

1. Add to your faith – remember, faith is a gift

2. Virtue – moral goodness

3. Knowledge – discernment to fully perceive God’s Word; Psa. 119:11

4. Temperance – self control

5. Patience – perfects Christian character – James 1:2-9

6. Godliness – an attitude that is well pleasing to God

7. Brotherly love – love of people

8. Charity – agape love. “Now abideth faith, hope, charity… but the greatest

of these is charity”. I Cor. 13

The results of obedience to Almighty God that comes when you live life as the Temple of God:

“For if you possess these qualities in increasing measure, they will keep you from

being ineffective and unproductive in your knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.

But whoever does not have them is nearsighted and blind, forgetting that they

have been cleansed from their past sins.” II Peter 1:8

“For if these things be in you and abound, they make you that ye shall neither be

barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. But he that

lacketh these things is blind and cannot see afar off, and hath forgotten that he

was purged from his old sins”. II Peter 1:9

We are partakers of the divine nature. This is a mind blowing thought. Peter reminds us that we are partakers of the divine nature. II Peter 1:4 - ‘partakers’ in Greek means ‘fellowship’ or ‘sharing’ (koinonia).

There are 7 words that have the same meaning of Koinonia:

1. Partakers

2. Communion

3. Fellowship

4. Contribution

5. Distribution

6. Partner

7. Communication

Consider that all seven words are about our attitude to God and to other people. Peter is telling us, as a way to escape corruption, that is in the world through lust, which a strong desire to do anything against the Lord because you are HIS Temple!

“The Bible has all the answers we need if we would only read it and obey

it”. ~~ President Ronald Reagan

Amos prophesied that in the Last Days there will be a famine of the Word of God; 8:11,12.

Repentance is the key to receive the fabulous promises of God. As you live your life as the Temple of God, how important is repentance? Consider that repentance was the theme of the first sermons preached by:

John the Baptist Matt. 3:2
Jesus Christ Matt. 4:17
Apostle Peter Acts 2:38

How important is repentance?

“Without repentance there is no salvation but repentance does not end with salvation.” ~~ Dr. Martyn-Lloyd Jones

“A repentant attitude upon a life will bring God’s special blessing.”

~~ David Wilkerson

God says, “I WILL IF YOU WILL…”

The word ‘if’ is very interesting. It is one of the most important words in the Bible because it speaks directly to our responsibility to God. Most promises in the Bible have conditions and the word ‘if’ speaks to those conditions. Our responses to God’s commands affect our relationship with Him and determine our receiving

from Him. Jesus used the word ‘if’ all the time. Almost half of the occurrences in the New Testament are in the four Gospels. Jesus always put the word ‘if’ on man’s responsibility and never on God’s side. The following are some of the biggest ‘ifs’ in the Word of God:

F we do four things, God will heal (divine intervention) our land
Most exciting Scripture – John 15:11-17 – “IF” is used 3 times – ‘abide’ (to

dwell) – 8 times; 8 is the number of new beginnings (Noah)

There is no darkness in God if we obey these 5 things: I John 1:5-10
IF you do not forgive others, the Lord cannot forgive you. Matt. 6:14,15.

Since your body is God’s Temple, the Lord cannot tolerate unconfessed sin.

God cannot hear your prayers if there is iniquity in your heart. But God will

forgive so He can hear our prayers. Praise God – HE is holy and dwells in

the praises of HIS people. Ps. 22:3

The Story of King Hezekiah (Wall Street Journal was correct)

In all, the kind made 25 key decisions which can apply to us today for revival. This is an incredible Biblical story on how God reacted when His people cared for the brick and mortar temple. The key point here is how much more important this principle is today given that we are now God’s Temple.

Major Decisions Made by the King:

The first thing Hezekiah did was to repair the Temple of God. II Chron. 29:3-11. Application: the best way for us to begin to repair our bodies – God’s Temple – is to repent from sin (I John 1:5-10). There are five ‘ifs’ which means ‘our decision’. Hezekiah was a God-fearing man (II Chron. 29:2) God give us the same choice

today – ‘choose you this day whom you will serve’. Joshua 24:14,15

Hezekiah encouraged his people to prepare for worship in the repaired temple with music and singing (II Chron. 29:12-31). We are to present our bodies as a living sacrifice (Romans 12:1,2). Praise of God is a New Testament sacrifice which is to be offered continually, being the fruit of our lips – giving thanks to His

Name.

The people celebrated Passover with great joy, as we should in Communion. I Cor. 11:17-34

Hezekiah restored the Passover which had not been celebrated in about 200 years.

The three steps of preparation for Passover were:

1. He purged idols from Jerusalem

2. Blood was sprinkled

3. Repentance of sin; II Chron. 30:1-4.

We celebrate Communion/Lord’s Table/Eucharist not with the blood of lambs but because of the blood and body of Jesus Christ whose spirit now dwells within us as His Temple. We also need to prepare for Communion. I Cor. 11:26-29

Hezekiah honoured and kept the Passover and here is what God did:

1. God forgave all who repented of their sin

2. God healed the people physically

3. There was a great time of worship/praise and joy

4. The Word of God was taught

5. The people were blessed and their prayers went right to Heaven

(II Chron. 30:15-27)

Dr. Martyn-Lloyd Jones and Charles Spurgeon have probably been the two most powerful preachers that we are aware of. Dr. Jones preached so honestly and forcefully that the secular media in Wales made this statement: “the preaching of Dr. Jones probably saved Wales from becoming the first Communist country in

Europe."

CONCLUSION:

As I understand with my life experiences, living as God’s Temple, that the Lord

responds to at least four major principles:

1. Repentance: God cannot hear our prayers if we do not repent nor can He

have fellowship with us; Psa. 66:18-20; I John 1:5-10

2. Obedience: demonstrates our faith and trust in God. “Obedience is better

than sacrifice”. I Samuel 15:22

3. Faith: “Without faith, it is impossible to please God”. Hebrews 11:6

4. Praising the Lord, despite our problems. Why? “God dwells in the praises of His people.”. Psa. 22:3. DAVID TELLS US TO PRAISE GOD 7 TIMES A DAY; Psalm 119:164. A good way to do this is to simply say the word,

HALLELUJAH! Why seven? Seven is the number of completion and is mentioned over 700 times. HALLELUJAH means to PRAISE THE LORD. It is the only word that I know that is pronounced the same in every

language on earth today! AMAZING!!

Barry Borthistle

A Spiritual Entrepreneur

bborthistle@shaw.ca

Special Book Offer!

Sat, 20 Jul 2024 00:00:48 GMT

This article contains a FREE COPY of Dr. Brian Stiller's Book

A Word From Barry Borthistle:

I have read dozens of books on leadership and vision. However, none have come close to Dr. Stiller's book. Here is just a taste of what this covers.

The 7 Principles

Listen for opportunity.
Recognize opportunity in chaos.
Exercise your faith
Discover the value proposition.
Link your passion with planning.

6. Resource development - a litmus test on leadership.

7. Yes, it is political

I have had the opportunity of knowing Doctor Stiller for 50 years, and I know no-one more qualified to teach on these things. The other aspect is that he gives his personal opinion on how to apply these principles.

Click Here for Your Free Book!

Principles Do Not Change But The Application Does! Brian’s Book has some Awesome Examples.

Shalom,

Barry Borthistle

This Article Can Change Your Life for Much the Better

Thu, 18 Jul 2024 00:19:27 GMT

Why I Wrote Three Books

Your Body is God's Temple

2. Spiritual Authority

3. 33 Things the Holy Spirit Wants to Do For You

Here is my dream….To achieve or develop a global movement that encourages people to understand and live like their body is “the Temple of God” and for God to heal our land. God dwells within the Temple ( I Cor. 3:16,17; 6:17-20). God’s Temple is made up of Spirit/Spiritual, Soul/Emotional, Body/Physical (I Thess. 5:23). Amazing!

“Behavior Follows Belief”

“Live it Before You Teach It”

“You are never too old to dream a new dream”. ~~ C.S. Lewis

“Dream a dream so big that if God is not in it, it will fail”. ~~ Hudson Taylor

“Mass movements are never started by the masses”. ~~ John Maxwell

“To recognize and receive the wondrous truth of being God’s Temple is the beginning of walking and living a supernatural life!"~~ Michael Ellison

We learn from history that everything needs a solid foundation…

“Who will save us now that the monster Covid19 has broken free? The pandemic has humbled the country and the world and has opened up millions of eyes to this risky Universe once more. For societies founded on Biblical traditions, pandemics need not make for the end. This is a call for repentance and revival. Great struggles can produce great clarity”. ~~ The Wall Street Journal

“When a critical mass of people have the Bible and apply what it teaches in their lives, a nation can be transformed.” ~~ Loren Cunningham

Covid 19 changed the world forever and no one seems to have any answers moving forward. Maybe it’s time we give God a chance to heal (divine

intervention, like a physician) our land (II Chron. 7:13-15).

V. 14 to me is one of the most incredible verses in the Bible because it is directed to us today. “If” (our choice) my people who are called by My name will do four things:

1. Humble themselves , which means ‘to bend the knee’, used in II Chron. 34:27. Spurgeon said voluntary humbleness is what God is looking for –

that’s what Solomon did!

2. Pray. Pray means to make supplication, to ask for. There are at least 12 preparation steps for prayer in order to God to even hear our prayer. Two

of the most important steps are repentance; I John 1:5-10 – 5 ‘ifs’ in this chapter and forgiving others; Matt. 6:14,15

3. Seek my face. Seek me means ‘to search out, to worship, to request.' Ps. 80:7,19

4. Turn from your wicked ways. Turn means ‘return to the starting point or to relinquish’. Solomon used the word ‘run’ three times in his prayer;

II Chron. 6:26, 37, 42.

If we do these 4 things, here is God’s promises to us:

I will hear you from Heaven. Hear means ‘to listen, to obey’
I will forgive your sin as far as the east is from the west; Psalm 103:12
I will heal your land, which means ‘to mend like a physician, to repair thoroughly – DIVINE INTERVENTION. The word ‘heal’ is also used in Isaiah

53:4-6 in the context of our salvation and healing.

WHAT IS FAITH?

In Dr. Brian Stiller’s new book, “THE 7 ANCIENT PRINCIPLES FOR 21 ST CENTURY LEADERS”, his chapter on ‘How to Exercise Your Faith” is the most amazing teaching on faith I have ever read.

Brian has graciously offered his book as a free gift on www.solomonsporchteaching.com. Yes, I said, ‘no charge’. Get it today .

Why is this information so important to you today?

"The New Testament teaching about God as a Trinity – Father, Son and Holy Spirit – is remarkable. A specific role of the son and the Holy Spirit, perhaps even more amazing, is their work of intercession on behalf of believers”. ~~ Dr. Larry Perkins

Why is this so important? Our bodies are the Temple of the Holy Spirit. I Cor. 6:18-20. The point is that the believer’s body is a sacred vessel. Apostle

Paul, in Colossians 1:24-27, wrote about this truth as the mystery that has been hidden from the ages and generations. Now uncovered for all is the riches of the magnificence of this mystery, which is Christ in you, the hope of Glory.

Stop and think about what you have just read: God’s Spiritual Authority. You cannot buy this extraordinary power, nor can you find it by searching the earth for it. As a Christian, it resides in you already, an awesome gift from God that you have only to claim and use once you know and accept its Source.

To apply GOD’S SPIRITUAL AUTHORITY to your life and circumstances, the one major ingredient you need is FAITH. It is impossible to please God without faith. By faith, Noah built a ship in the middle of dry land. By faith, Abraham said yes to God’s call to travel to an unknown place that would become his home at age seventy-five. By faith, barren Sarah was able to become pregnant. By faith, George Mueller fed over 10,000 orphans. At this time, England was only looking after 3600 orphans. By faith, Mueller built five large orphanages and he never asked anyone but God for money and millions of dollars came in!

THE VITAL NEED FOR A STUDY AND UNDERSTANDING OF THE HOLY SPIRIT

Exciting, revolutionary power is available exclusively to you as a Christian ….

It’s supernatural power…

To transform human nature
To be the salt of the earth, the light of the world
To bring about a dramatic but peaceful revolution in those around you
To face any crisis

THE INTERCESSION OF JESUS CHRIST AND THE HOLY SPIRIT

"It is simply awesome what Paul tells us in Romans 8:27 that the Holy Spirit ‘intercedes for the saints according to the will of God’. A few verses later (v. 34) he tells us that the Messiah Jesus, risen and at the right hand of God, “indeed intercedes for us." The author of Hebrews similarly rejoices that Jesus, who is able to save people completely, ‘always lives to make intercession for them.'"

Hebrews 7:25 ~~ Dr. Larry Perkins

The Work of the Holy Spirit. He guides us into all truth; John 14:16,17; 16:13-15;

The Holy Spirit replaces the physical presence of Jesus by permanently indwelling believers. This is amazing. The divine presence of Jesus’ followers includes:

The Spirit – John 14:15-17
The Son – John 14:18-21
The Father – John 14:22-24

“Without the Holy Spirit, we are like a ship without a sail and can do nothing”.

~~ Charles Spurgeon

“The Spirit-filled life is not a special, deluxe edition of Christianity. It is part and

parcel of the total plan of God for His people”. ~~ A. W. Tozer

“Wise leaders should have known that the human heart cannot exist in a vacuum. If Christians are forbidden to enjoy the wine of the Spirit, they will turn to the wine of the flesh.

When Jesus Christ first announced the coming church, He said 4 things:

It is My church
I will build the church
I will give you the keys (competent authority) to the Kingdom of Heaven
The gates of Hades will not prevail against it. A key represents an opening instrument and in this case, it is the key to open Spiritual Authority

Matt. 16:18,19

What is the Kingdom of Heaven? The first sermon that John the Baptist preached was “repent for the Kingdom of Heaven is at hand”. It’s here not – not coming!

This was also the first sermon of Jesus Christ. Matt. 4:17

The first sermon of the Apostle Peter in the first church was ‘repent’. Acts 2:38 The Kingdom of Heaven is a mystery (secret) which is why Jesus taught in parables.

Matt. 13:11. There are 14 mysteries in the New Testament and this is the first one. The Kingdom of Heaven is God manifesting His being God in the

world of men or God’s government on earth.

The Holy Spirit is anxious to do 33 Things for us and transforms our lives so that we can have a complete Biblical Worldview. This is amazing and has a radical effect on a person’s life.

KEYS FOUND IN THE BIBLE

‘Keys’ is used two times in the Old Testament; in Hebrew means “an opening instrument”. In Greek, it means “God’s competent spiritual

authority."

1. In Judges 3:25, we find that Israel had turned their back on the Lord and God gave them the key to return and they obeyed.

2. In Isaiah 22:22,23, Isaiah prophesied that the key of David (Jesus Christ) and He shall be a glorious throne in His Father’s House.

3. Jesus accused the scribers (lawyers) of not using the key of knowledge and this hindered others from entering the Kingdom of Heaven. Jesus also

accused the scribes of shutting up the Kingdom of Heaven. Matt. 213:13; Luke 11:52

4. Jesus gave the key of David (Is. 22:22,23 – this is referred to above!!!) to the Church at Philadelphia with the promise that if you open the door, no

man can shut it. The Church at Philadelphia was the smallest of the seven churches in Revelation but it was the most victorious because they listened to the Holy Spirit. Rev. 3:7-13.

When you are given the key of David, you also are the sons of Abraham as well; Matt. 1:1.

And the promises given to Abraham are given to us because we are his seed; Gal. 3:25-29

Because the church of Philadelphia obeyed the Lord and opened the door with the key of David, here is what followed:

i. Jesus knew their works; faith without works is dead; James 2:14,15

ii. Jesus gave them an open door – open to God

iii. No one can shut the door

iv. You have little strength

v. You have kept my Word

vi. You have not denied My name

vii. Because you have kept my Word, I will keep you from the hour of temptation that shall come upon the whole world

viii. Behold I am coming quickly, so hold fast to what you know so no man can take your crown

ix. You are overcomers (get the victory) and you will see the New Jerusalem; Rev. 21:1-8

x. But listen to the Holy Spirit

xi. Your name will be written in my book; Rev. 3:5; 13:8;21:27

5. We see that the fifth angel was given the key to the bottomless pit; Rev. 9:1-12

6. An angel is given the key to the bottomless pit with a great chain in his hand to bind Satan for 1000 years; Rev. 20:1-3

7. Jesus Christ holds the most powerful keys in the universe, holding the key to hell and death; Rev. 1:18

8. When Jesus Christ announced the coming Church He said 3 things: Matt. 16:18,19

a. It is My Church and I will build it

b. The gates of hell shall not prevail against it

c. I will give the church the keys to the Kingdom of Heaven

FINAL THOUGHTS:

Remember… the church is not a building rather it is the individual believer. In the Old Testament, only the High Priest could meet with God in the Temple and then only once a year on the Day of Atonement (Yom Kippur). In the New Testament, Jesus Himself said that the brick and mortar temple would be destroyed, as Jesus said it would be in Matt. 24:1,2. This occurred in 70 A.D, destroyed by the Romans. Jesus Christ is now the High Priest of the believer and available 7/24; Heb. 4:14-16

The word ‘atonement’ is mentioned over 70 times in the Old Testament because the priest had to make daily sacrifices. ‘Atonement’ in Hebrew means ‘to appease, to pardon, to purge, to reconcile’. In the New Testament, ‘atonement’ is mentioned one time in Romans 5:11. In the Greek, it means, ‘a great restoration to divine favor’. JESUS CHRIST PAID IT ALL.

CONCLUSION:

As I understand with my life experiences, living as God’s Temple, that the Lord responds to at least four major principles:

1. Repentance. God cannot hear our prayers if we do not repent nor can He have fellowship with us; Psa. 66:18-20; I John 1:5,6

2. Obedience demonstrates our faith and trust in God. “Obedience is better than sacrifice." I Samuel 15:22

3. Faith. “Without faith it is impossible to please God." Hebrews 11:6

4. Praising the Lord, despite our problems. Why? “God dwells in the praises of His people”. Psa. 22:3. David tells us to praise God 7 times a day;

Psalm 119:164. A good way to do this is to simply say the word, HALLELUJAH! Why seven? Seven is the number of completion and is

mentioned over 700 times. HALLELUJAH means to PRAISE THE LORD. It is the only word that I know that is pronounced the same in very

language on earth today!

PERSONAL STORY:

Please feel free to listen to the personal story of Barry and Ruth Borthistle as we have applied these principles to our lives since losing business and income. God dwells in the praises of His people – regardless of our circumstances!

To purchase my books and listen to our Solomon’s Porch Teaching podcast to hear how we applied the principles and how God supernaturally supplied our needs, go to: www.solomonsporchteaching.com . It’s an amazing story!

TO GOD BE THE GLORY

Barry Borthistle, A Spiritual Entrepreneur with a Biblical Worldview - www.solomonsporchteaching.com bborthistle@shaw.ca

WHY DID GOD CHOOSE ISRAEL TO BE HIS CHOSEN PEOPLE?

Tue, 09 Jul 2024 02:33:22 GMT

WHY DID GOD CHOOSE ISRAEL TO BE HIS CHOSEN PEOPLE? Click Here for a Special Prayer for Israel

solomonsporchteaching.com

God called Abraham; Gen. 12:1-3

God only calls three things the "apple of His eye:"

His Holy Word; Prov. 7:1-5
Israel; Deut. 32:10; Zech. 2:8
David prayed that God would keep him as ‘the apple of God’s eye’

Ps. 17:8. ‘keep’ in Hebrew means ‘to guard, to watch over.'

“The pupil of the eye permits light to the brain, which then allows us to make the correct decisions in life." ~~ Cleveland Clinic

We all know that the world is in a crisis. No man seems to have the answer. How about giving God a chance? The Bible is 1/3 history (past); 1/3 doctrine (present); 1/3 prophecy (future).

“If you preach the Gospel in all aspects, with the exception of the issues, which deal specifically with the time in which you live, you are not preaching the Gospel at all.” ~~ Martin Luther

“Pastors who refuse to teach Bible prophecy are failing to teach 20 – 40% of the Bible." ~~ Jack Hibbs

“The Lord will not teach you anything new until you obey what you already know.” ~~ Stephen Olford

Barry Borthistle

A Spiritual Entrepreneur With a Biblical Worldview

https://www.solomonsporchteaching.com

bborthistle@shaw.ca

WHY DID GOD CHOOSE ISRAEL TO BE HIS CHOSEN PEOPLE?

“Speaking of the nation of Israel, Deut. 7:7-9 tells us, “the Lord did not set His affection on you and choose you because you were more numerous than other peoples, for you were the fewest of all peoples. But it was because the Lord loved you and kept the oath He swore to your forefathers that He brought you out with a mighty hand and redeemed you from the land of slavery, from the power of Pharaoh, king of Egypt. Know therefore that the Lord our God is God; He is the faithful God, keeping His covenant of love to a thousand generations of those who love Him and keep His commands.

God chose the nation of Israel to be the people through whom Jesus Christ would be born – the Savior from sin and death (John 3:16. God first promised the Messiah after Adam and Eve’s fall into sin (Gen. 3). God later confirmed that the Messiah would come from the line of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob (Gen. 12:1-3). Jesus Christ is the ultimate reason why God chose Israel to be His special people. God did not need to have a chosen people, but He decided to do it that way. Jesus had to come from some nation of people and God chose Israel.

However, God’s reason for choosing the nation of Israel was not solely for the purpose of producing the Messiah. God’s desire for Israel was that they would go and teach others about Him. Israel was to be a nation of priests, prophets and missionaries to the world. God’s intent was for Israel to be a distinct people, a nation who pointed others towards God and His promised provision of a Redeemer, Messiah and Savior. For the most part, Israel failed in this task. However, God’s ultimate purpose for Israel, that of bringing the Messiah into the world – was fulfilled perfectly in the Person of Jesus Christ." ~~ GotQuestions.com

TEN AMAZING FACTS ABOUT ISRAEL

Keep in mind that Israel is only about the size of the state of New Jersey with a population of about 9 million people.

1. The Economist ranked Israel as the 4th most successful economy among developed countries in 2022. The IMF estimated Israel’s GDP at US$564

billion and its GDP per capita at US$58,270 in 2023 (13th highest in the world), a figure comparable to other highly developed countries.

2. The Economy of Israel is a highly developed free-market economy. It has the second largest number of startup companies in the world after the

United States.

3. Israel has the highest number of billionaires in the Middle East (Wikipedia).

4. Israel is one of the most resilient and technologically-advance market economies in the world. Its skilled workforce and concentration of venture

capital.

5. Recent discoveries of oil and natural gas have made Israel an exporter (International Trade Commission).

6. Israel’s Index of Economic Freedom score is higher than the world and regional averages. Israel’s economy is considered “mostly free’ according

to the 2024 index.

7. Science and technology in Israel is one of the country’s most developed sectors. “We are lucky to be sitting in one of the hottest innovation and

technology hubs in the world. With over 6,000 active startups” - Deloitte

Israel spent 4.3% of its gross domestic product on civil research and development in 2015, the highest ratio in the world. In 2019, Israel was

ranked the world’s fifth most innovative country by the Bloomberg Innovation index.

8. The answer is not complicated – water, electricity, freedom of speech, freedom of the press and freedom of movement.

9. Israel has developed an education system that has created a venture capital system, second only to Silicon Valley in the U.S. (with only 9 million

people!).

10. Israel is also an exporter of flowers, fruit and diamonds. - Wikipedia

Isaiah foretold the re-birth of Israel

Isaiah prophesied that Israel would become a nation again and that it would happen in one day! Isaiah 66:7,8 – written perhaps between 701-681 BC; fulfilled: 1948. Isaiah said the birth would take place before there would be labor pains. And that too is precisely what happened. A movement called Zionism began in the 1800s to encourage Jews worldwide to move to Israel, which at that time was called Palestine. Within hours of the declaration of independence in 1948, Israel was attacked by the surrounding countries of Egypt, Jordan, Syria, Lebanon, Iraq and Saudi Arabia.

When reading Isaiah 66:7,8, keep in mind that Israel’s status as a sovereign nation was established and reaffirmed during the course of a single day and that it was born of a movement called Zionism and that its declaration of independence was not the result of a war but rather the cause of one.

Also note: as the Bible prophesied, the world is turning against the Jews and Israel with a vengeance:

Isaiah 60:15 – “Whereas you have been [Is. 1:7-9; 6:11-13; Jer. 30:17] forsaken and [Is. 66:5] hated with no one passing through, I will make you

an everlasting [Is. 4:2; 65:18] pride, a joy from generation to generation."

Ezekiel 36:8-10 – “But you, O mountains of Israel, will produce branches and fruit for my people Israel, for they will soon come home, I am

concerned for you and will look on you with favor; you will be plowed and sown, and I will multiply the number of people upon you, even the whole

house of Israel. The towns will be inhabited and the ruins rebuilt."

Matthew 24:9 – “Then they will deliver you to tribulation and will kill you and you will be hated by all nations because of my name."

For centuries everybody has been fighting over this tiny country called Israel to claim it as “their” holy place. It seems that the whole world has always ‘had it in’ for Jews in one way or another and some (i.e. Hitler) have even tried to annihilate them completely. The bottom line is, this issue dates back to the conflict between Isaac and Ishmael, and will not be resolved until Yeshua returns.

- Refinersfire.org/Israel

BIBLICAL REASONS WHY WE SHOULD BLESS ISRAEL AND PRAY FOR JERUSALEM

Gen. 12:1-3; Psalm 122:6-9

Keep in mind that Israel is mentioned over 2500 times and Jerusalem over 800 times in the Word of God. The word ‘Jerusalem’ is not mentioned once in the Quran. God did all of the blessing prior to Abraham. From Adam and Eve until Abraham was about 1600 years.

1. God blessed all living creatures; Gen. 1:21,22

2. God blessed the 7th day; Gen. 2:2,3

3. God blessed male and female and told Adam and Eve to multiply and replenish the earth; Gen. 1:28

4. God blessed Noah after the flood with the same message that He gave to Adam and Eve; Gen. 9:1

God is a God of love and mercy and is not willing that any should perish but that all should come to repentance; II Peter 3:9

“Whatever Happened to Repentance?” By David Wilkerson

Only 10% of pastors preach on repentance today according to Barna Research. Without repentance, there is no fellowship with the Lord; I John 1:5-10

Repentance can help God change His mind; Jonah 3:10

Repentance can cause God to heal (divine intervention) our land – II Chron. 7:12-15 and our bodies, physical and spiritual; Is. 53:4-6

Repentance can cause God to heal our bodies; Isaiah 53:4-6

Noah found grace in the eyes of the Lord; Gen. 6:8. Because of Jesus Christ, we are given grace and we are given faith; Rom. 12:3

5. Israel is the first thing that God told His creation to bless; Gen. 12:1-3

God called Abraham at 75 years of age; Abraham is a boy’s name of Hebrew origin, meaning “high father”, “father of miracles” or “father of a nation”. Named after the founder of the Jewish people, Abraham will certainly be able to see the significance of his name in this faith.

‘Bless’ in Hebrew means “to praise – to salute – to endue with power for success, prosperity, longevity”. The average life expectancy in Israel is the 4th in the world out of 195 countries. Global Citizen

6. God then tells Abraham that those who bless Israel will be blessed; Gen. 12:1-3

Now the Lord had said unto Abram, Get thee out of thy country, and from thy kindred, and from thy father’s house unto a land that I will show thee.

And I will make of thee a great nation and I will bless thee, and make thy name great; and thou shalt be a blessed.

And I will bless them that bless thee and curse him that curseth thee; and in thee shall all families of the earth be blessed.”

The Middle East crisis would be over in one day if all nations would bless Israel.

7. What are the blessings of Abraham? First blessing is Jesus Christ because Jesus is the seed of Abraham; Gal. 3:15-18

The blessing of Abraham was a benefit to Abraham himself. In terms of the ancient world, he was a success; he was well-respected, he was healthy and he had many descendants. However, the blessing Abraham received from God went far beyond those immediate personal blessings. Through Abraham the whole world was blessed because Jesus is a descendant of Abraham. Because of Jesus any person, Jew or Gentile, can be forgiven and be in His kingdom. In Christ, we receive the spiritual blessing of justification, just as Abraham did. “If you belong to Christ, then are Abraham’s seed and heirs according to the promise.”

“For you are all sons of God through faith in Christ Jesus. For as many of you as were baptized into Christ have put on Christ. There is neither Jew

nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is neither male nor female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus. And if you are Christ’s, then you are

Abraham’s seed and heirs according to the promise”. Gal. 3:26-29 Remember: now to Abraham and his seed were the promises made. He does

not say, “And to seeds”, as of many, but as one, “And to your Seed”, who is Christ.

8. Did you know that God loves Israel so much that He calls Himself the husband of Israel (Isaiah 54:5,6). ‘Husband’ in Hebrew means ‘to marry’. The Church is the Bride of Jesus Christ. Eph. 5:21-33. Husbands love your wives as Christ loves the Church; Eph. 5:25

9. Why we should pray for the peace of Jerusalem. God tells us to pray for the peace of Jerusalem in Psalm 122:6-9.

“Pray for the peace of Jerusalem: May those who love you be secure. May there be peace within your walls and security within your citadels. For

the sake of the house of the Lord our God, I will seek your prosperity." Since Jerusalem is depicted as the center of Jewish life, it follows that those who pray for her peace and security will be granted peace themselves. Praying for the peace of Jerusalem is most appropriate for a city whose name literally means “peaceful” and which is the residence of the God of peace. The phrase “peace be upon Israel” is found also at the end of Psalm 125:5. Indicating that it was a common farewell blessing. Further, Jerusalem will be the scene of Christ’s return (Acts 1:11; Zech. 14:4) and at that time he will establish permanent peace within its walls. All Christians should be eagerly awaiting His return and praying for the time when the Prince of Peace will reign in Jerusalem. Jesus also said that we should be peacemakers, which would include praying for peace. “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God (Matt. 5:9)." We are committed to do our best to live at peace with others.

“If possible, so far as it depends on you, be at peace with all men” Romans 12:18. So God wants us to seek peace among all people and that would include praying for peace in Jerusalem, especially because of its special place in His heart.

Peace (shalom) meant prosperity – long life – wellness. Jesus Christ left us His peace. John 14:27

10. The Lord will look after Israel like “the apple of His eye” (Isaiah 51:2,3). Comforting words for Jerusalem: “Look unto Abraham your father, and Sarah

that bare you; for I called him alone, and blessed him and increased him. For the Lord shall comfort Zion; he will comfort all her waste place and he will make her wilderness like Eden and her desert like the garden of the Lord; joy and gladness shall be found therein, thanksgiving and the voice of melody. This is incredible good news for Israel. God told Israel that He would send farmers to help with the agriculture in time of need. It is happening today. Farmers are flocking to Israel to assist with the harvest. Why? Because most farmers in Israel are at war (Isaiah 61:5,6),

(CBN News).

NATIONS REAFFIRM URGENCY OF TWO-STATE SOLUTION FOR ISRAEL AND PALESTINE

Nations expressed support for a future independent Palestinian state at the United Nations in January 2024, days after Israel’s prime minister took a strong stance against the two-state solution. U.N. Secretary, General Antonia Guterres told the Security Council that any refusal to accept a two-state solution’ by any party must be firmly rejected’. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu says he is seeking “only total victory” over Hamas, following their October 7 terror attack inside Israel that triggered the latest war. At a news conference in Tel Aviv, he pushed back on the idea of a

future Palestinian state. The Biblical boundaries given to Israel by God and not the U.N. or anyone else, extend today into modern day Egypt, Syria, Lebanon and Jordan: “From sea to sea” (Numbers 34).

“I will plant Israel in their own land, never again to be uprooted from the land I have given them.” Amos 9:15

The Bible refers to significant points that we can identify – the Sea of Kinnereth being the Sea of Galilee; the Salt Sea being the Dead Sea; and places such as Gaza and Sidon, where there is no doubt about the ancient location. Archaeology has given us proof.

What we can say is that the Promised Land stretches from the Red Sea around Eilat, as a southern boundary to the Mediterranean at the point south of Gaza and extending from there up the coastline at least as far north a Sidon in Lebanon to form the western boundary, then north to Euphrates River, to form the northern boundary and down the line of the Jordan River to form the eastern boundary.

Psalm 83 – Defend Israel O, God

11. Psalm 83 “Defend Israel – O God”. V. 6-11 lists the ten nations that want to wipe Israel off the face of the earth. Why would the Arabs want to sign a peace treaty with a country and people that they want to wipe off the face of the earth? Since 1948, Israel has offered a peace treaty for a two state solution – 9 times and each time they have been rejected. Israel gave Gaza to the Arabs in an attempt for a two state solution and the result was October 7, 2023.

Israel’s disengagement from Gaza and North Samaria (2005).

Israel’s plan of unilateral disengagement form the Gaza Strip and North Samaria put forward by Prime Minister Ariel Sharon was carried out on August 15, 2005. The purpose of the plan was to improve Israel’s security and international status in the absence of peace negotiations with the Palestinians. With the implementation of the plan, IDF installation and forces were removed and over 9000 Israeli citizens living in 25 settlements were evicted. By September 22, 2005, Israel’s withdrawal from the entire Gaza Strip to the 1967 Green Line and the eviction of the four settlements in Samaria, was complete. In June 2007 Hamas took over the Gaza Strip from the Palestinian Authority. Many thousands of rockets and mortar shells have been fired from the Gaza Strip onto southern Israeli towns and villages, terrorizing and destabilizing the lives of hundreds of thousands of Israeli citizens.

CHAOS AND HUMILIATON AS ISRAEL PULLS OUT OF LEBANON

Lebanese snipers exacted a final humiliation on Israel’s 22 year occupation of southern Lebanon, triggering a firefight above columns of refuges at the border and announcing the enemy’s arrival omits doorstep. Clashes raged while refuges cowered behind cars and paltry pieces of luggage,

encapsulating Israel’s worst nightmare. After decades and loss, more than 1000 men, Israel’s chaotic withdrawal from southern Lebanon left its northern flank dangerously exposed with Hezbollah guerrillas sitting directly on its border.

WHEN WILL ISRAEL SIGN A PEACE TREATY?

12 Could the next peace treaty that Israel signs be with the antichrist in the Tribulation? If so, the return of Jesus Christ could be closer than many of us think! Daniel 9:20-27

ISRAEL’S PEACE TREATY WITH THE ANTICHRIST

One of the end time prophecies described by the prophet Daniel is the unveiling of the deceptive peace treaty that the Antichrist will force Israel to sign. The treaty will promise calm, but after three and a half years, the Man of Lawlessness will use it as a pretext to invade Israel. Isaiah warns this accord will be grounded in a lie and will guarantee war because it is a covenant with death. The goal of the Antichrist armies will be to capture Jerusalem and establish an Antichrist presence in the restored Third Temple on the Temple Mount. The Lord Jesus Christ warned of this when He spoke of an “Abomination of Desolation”, Matt. 24:15, standing in the holy place at the Temple. Daniel explains that this

treaty lasts one week; in his symbolism, one day represents one year. Thus, the middle of the seven year Tribulation period, the Antichrist will capture the Third Temple and end sacrifices.

THE ABOMINATION OF DESOLATION

Jesus refers to the Abomination of Desolation, (Matt. 24:15) spoken of by the Prophet Daniel in Daniel 9:27. The passage sets the pattern and provides details about what the abomination of desolation consists of. This abomination is to take place in the middle of a seven

year period. The passage says, ‘in the middle of the week he will put a top to sacrifice and grain offering; and on the wing of abominations will come one who makes desolate.’ In other words, the future prince will do at that time exactly what Antiochus did in the second century BD. But Daniel goes on to say that the one who commits this act will be destroyed three and a half years later. Daniel 12:11 provides ‘the precise chronology”. The text says, ‘and from the time that the regular sacrifice is abolished and the abomination of desolation is set up,

there will be 2,290 days.’

13 In addition to the three passages in Daniel, the two references by our Lord in Matthew and Luke, II Thess. 2:4 and Rev. 13:14-15 also have this event in view. Therefore, the abomination of desolation, which the reader is to understand, includes the following elements:

taken from Daniel 9:27; 11:31; 12:11; II Thess. 2:4; Rev. 13:14,15

1. It occurs in the Jewish Temple in Jerusalem; Dan. 11:31; II Thess. 2:4.

2. It involves a person setting up a statue in place of the regular sacrifice in

the holy of holies; Dan. 11:31; 12:11; Rev. 13:14,15.

3. This results in the cessation of the regular sacrifice; Dan. 9:17; 12:11

4. There will be a time of about three and a half years between this event and

another event and the end of the time period.

5. It involves an individual setting up a statue of image of himself so that he

may be worshiped in place of God; Dan. 11:31; II Thess. 2:4; Rev. 13:14,15.

6. The image is made to come to life.

7. A worship system of this false god is thus inaugurated.

8. At the end of this time period the individual who commits the act will be

himself be cut off.

~~ Thomas Ice

JESUS CHRIST WILL RULE

14 In Zechariah 14, verses 1 and 2 it states all nations will come against Israel but Israel will be defended by the Messiah. This is already occurring with 3 European nations withdrawing their ambassadors from Israel:

Norway
Ireland
Spain

Keep in mind that in 1948, the sun never set on the British Empire and then the United Kingdom did not support Israel becoming a state in 1948. Today, the British Empire is no longer. Gen. 12:1-3. Verse 3, the Messiah intervenes for His people. I believe this is the Battle of Armageddon; Rev. 16:16-21

1. The largest earthquake the world has ever seen, which will destroy every

mountain and island.

2. Hailstones about 100 pounds each will be exceedingly great.

3. Cities of the nations will fall.

4. The Great Babylon, which is portrayed in Scripture as the world’s system,

like the Tower of Babel, will fall; Gen. 10:10; 11:9

According the futurist interpretation of Revelation, the Battle of Armageddon will be a real battle in the future, near the end of the tribulation. Demonic influences will cause the kings of the earth to gather their armies for an all-out assault on Jerusalem. The Antichrist will be leading the charge: Rev. 16:13-16. Jesus Christ will return to earth with the armies of heaven; Matt. 25:31; Rev. 19:14. His feet will stand on the Mount of Olives; Zech. 14:4 and will split in two when the feet of Jesus Christ touches it. He will defeat the forces of evil; Rev. 19:15,16. He will cast the Antichrist and the false prophet into the lake of fire.

~~GotQuestions.com

The Holiday Inn sent engineers to survey the Mount of Olives for preparation of a hotel site and their conclusion was that it couldn’t be done as they found that there was a geological fault under the Mount that is causing it to split. Some 2500 years ago the Bible, as stated by the prophet Zechariah, said that this split (possibly cause by a great earthquake) will take place when Jesus Christ returns to earth to put down all evil and rule and reign forever, as the Bible says,

15 “Then the Lord will go out fully armed for war, to fight against those nations. That day his feet will stand upon the Mount of Olives, to the east of Jerusalem and the Mount of Olives will split apart, making a very wide valley running from east to west, for half the mountain will move toward the north and half toward the south."

He will find Satan; and He will set up His kingdom for 1,000 years; Rev. 19:20

At Armageddon the Lord Jesus Christ ‘reads the winepress of the fury of the wrath of God Almighty”; Rev. 16:19 and all things will be made right!

WHAT IS THE PURPOSE OF THE THOUSAND YEAR REIGN OF CHRIST?

The millennium, also known as the millennial kingdom, is the 1000 year reign of Jesus after the Tribulation and before the Great White Throne Judgment of the wicked. During the millennium, Jesus will reign King over Israel and all the nations of the world (Isa, 2:4; 42:1). The world will live in peace (Isa. 11:6-9;32:18). Satan will be bound; Rev. 20:1-3 and at the beginning, everyone will worship God; Isa. 2:2,3. The purpose of the 1000 year reign is to fulfill various promises God made to the world some of these promises, called covenants, were given specifically to Israel. Others were given to Jesus. ~~ GotQuestions.com

THE MEANING OF THE MOUNT OF OLIVES TO JESUS IN THE BIBLE

16 The second most famous mountain in Jerusalem (Mount Zion being the first) is the Mount of Olives. Why is it so significant? God chose to reveal His redemptive plan and purpose through a small country on the crossroads of Europe, Asia and Africa. He chose a region known as the Middle East.

Israel is about the size of New Jersey. Its capital, Jerusalem, though often referred to as the city of peace, has had this name challenged over and over through the years. Many battles and unresolved conflicts have battered it for years. Mount of Olives and the Messiah – the first visit is recorded in Luke 19:28-39.

As Jesus moved towards the Temple Mount, crowds of Jewish people greeted Him with a proclamation: “Blessed is the King who comes in the name of the Lord; peace in heaven and glory in the highest!” Luke 19:38. These words were not random. It is the official messianic greeting based on the words of Psalm 118:26. Jesus fulfilled the words of the Prophet Zechariah, which said the Messiah would arrive on a humble donkey; Zech. 9:9.

During the second visit, Jesus answered His disciples’ questions about the end of days. It is one of the clearest passages of eschatology in the Gospels. Meaning, it gives a detailed picture of the tribulation and second coming of Jesus; Mark 13:1-37; Luke 21:5-36. The Mount of Olives as first known as a place of prayer. King David ascended to the Mount of Olives, barefoot, in prayer, while attempting to escape the rage of his son Absalom. Those in his company also wept; I Sam. 15:30. We know from Acts 1:11,12 that Jesus ascended to Heaven from the Mount of Olives. Zechariah 14:14 gives us the future hope and assurance that Jesus will one day return to the very same location.

This discourse simultaneously describes the immediate future, while also point to Jesus’ second coming. The dramatic events of that week culminate in the events of the Passion. In anticipation for His arrest and betrayal, Jesus returns to the Mount of Olives to pray one last time.

He returns to the place where King David fled from his son Absalom, where King Solomon worshipped idols, where the prophets Ezekiel and Zechariah prophesied… and where He himself prayed, taught and prophesied. He chose this hill for His final moments before being betrayed.

THE RE-CREATION OF HEBREW: A “DEAD LANGUAGE” LIVES AGAIN

The revival of Modem Hebrew – the language of the new state of Israel – has been a continuing source of amazement to linguists and laymen alike. How was the “dead” language of the Bible suited to all the needs of modem industrial and urban civilization? Ralph Weiman is preeminently qualified to report on this achievement: he was for four years chief of the language section of the United States War Department, which prepared foreign language guides for American soldiers.

In a sense the most amazing feat of Zionism has been the revival of Hebrew, even more remarkable, perhaps, than much more frequently cited achievement as the transformation of the sand dunes near Jaffa into that bustling modem city, Tel Aviv. It is a linguistic miracle. For apart from here, we have no example of a “dead” language which ceased to be spoken and was gain restored to life.

THE BUILDING OF THE THIRD TEMPLE

The Jerusalem Post and Dr. Jimmy DeYong state that everything is ready for the rebuilding of the Jewish Temple, which was destroyed by the Romans in 70A.D. as prophesied by Jesus in Mark 13.

1. All worship and offering utensils are in stock today

2. The group of 24 priests necessary to conduct worship are being trained

today

3. There has not been a pure bred red heifer in Jerusalem in over 2000 years. The red heifer is part of temple worship; Numbers chapter 19. There are

now 5 pure bred red heifers in Jerusalem today. ~~ C.B.N. News

Titus Destroys Jerusalem – A.D. 70. The Jewish Revolt began – and met its bitter end - at Masada, a hunk of rock overlooking the Dead Sea. The Romans had built a virtually impregnable fortress there. Yet the atrocities of Florus inspired some crazy Zealots to attack Masada. Amazingly, they won, slaughtering the Roman army there.

In Jerusalem, he temple captain signified solidarity with the result by stopping the daily sacrifices to Caesar. Soon all Jerusalem was in an uproar, expelling or killing the Roman troops. Then all Judea was in revolt; then Galilee. HUGE BIBLICAL FACT: believers now are the Temple of God with the power of the Holy Spirit, living within each believer; I Cor. 3:16, 17; 6:17-20

JEWISH WEDDING TRADITIONS AND RITUALS

This is one of the most amazing illustrations of the return of Jesus Christ. Each step of the Jewish wedding illustrates the coming of Christ because the Church is now the Bride of Jesus Christ. Eph. 5:21-23 Israel is the Bride of God; Isa. 54. There are about 24 passages in the New Testament that confirm this incredible story.

HOW DOES ALL THIS END? THE COMING INVASIONS OF ISRAEL

Jewish people have faced annihilation ever since Moses led them out of slavery in Egypt more than 3,400 years ago. Accounts of Jewish genocide are so plentiful, heinous, and gruesome they make you weep and wonder at the abject depravity of the human heart. Jewish people have suffered and their suffering continues. The cancer of anti-Semitism is eating away at the world, resulting in no country being despised more, without cause, than the infinitesimally small State of Israel. From Israel’s inception in 1948, nations have challenged its right to exist and have attempted to destroy the little pocket of Jewish people who live there.

Israel is barely a speck on the map of the world, but I’s a speck many are determined to eradicate. From a human perspective, the tiny nation’s chances of surviving are nonexistent.

Jerusalem’s Enemies to be destroyed:

“Behold I will make Jerusalem a cup of trembling unto all the people round

about, when they shall be in the siege both against Judah and against

Jerusalem. And in that day will I make Jerusalem a burdensome stone for

all people; all that burden themselves with it shall be cut in pieces, though

all the people of the earth begather4ed together against it.” Zech. 12:2,3

~~ Benson Commentary

19 Zech. 12:3 – I will make Jerusalem a burdensome stone – Jerusalem is here compared to a stone of great weight, which, being too heavy for those who attempted to lift it up or remove it, falls back upon them and crushes them to pieces. St. Jerome, in a note on the place, speaks of an exercise, which he says, was common in Palestine and throughout all Judea, in his day, in which the young men, who were ambitious to show their strength, used to lift up stones of enormous weight as high as they could, some of their knees, others to their naval, their shoulders and even their heads, and some placed them on top of their heads, with their hands erect and joined together. In his exercise, it is evident they must have been in great danger of the stone’ falling upon them and bruising them or even crushing them to pieces.

TWO JUDGMENTS COMING

1. The Bema judgment; bema – a divine tribunal in which all believers will stand; Rom. 14:10; II Cor. 5:9,10. In Rome, crowns were handed out at the

Bema seat. Crown is a token of honour; a symbol of triumph. There are five crowns mentioned in Scripture; those receiving the crowns will cast

them around the throne; Rev. 4:9-11.

Imperishable crown – discipline in the believer’s walk; I Cor. 9:24-27
Crown of rejoicing – looking for the return of Jesus Christ; I Thess. 2:17-19
Crown of righteousness – reward for fighting the God work conflict by faith???? II Tim. 4:6-8
Crown of glory – teachers of the Word who teach voluntarily, without being paid; I Peter 5:1-4
Crown of life – those who have been persecuted for the cause of Christ; Rev. 2:8-11

Above all, remember that Jesus Christ, the Son of God, had to bear a crown of thorns and was whipped, spit upon and crucified for us. The judgment that a person faces will be determined by the decision he or she makes while on earth. The right decisions to avoid the Great White Throne is to

accept Jesus Christ as Saviour and Lord. John 3:14-21.

2. Great White Throne judgment – Rev. 20:11-15. This is for unbelievers, which is eternal darnation (separation from God.)

WHAT ARE THE SEVEN TRUMPETS OF REVELATION?

After the Anti-Christ breaks the Peace Treaty with Israel, the seven angels will be given the seven trumpets. The seven trumpets described in Rev. 8:6-19 and 11:15-19. The seven trumpets are the “contents” of the seventh seal judgment, in that the seventh seal summons the angels who sound the trumpets (Rev. 8:1-5).

The judgments heralded by the seven trumpets will take place during the tribulation period in the end times.

THE FIRST TRUMPET - Rev. 8:6,7 – hail and fire mixed with blood will destroy 1/3 of the trees on earth and bury all green grass.

THE SECOND TRUMPET – v. 8,9 – one third of the sea will become blood and a third of sea life will be destroyed and a third of the ships will be destroyed.

THE THIRD TRUMPET – V. 10,11 – one third of all fresh water will become wormwood. Biblical scholars consider wormwood to represent bitterness in the

End times.

THE FOURTH TRUMPET – v. 12,13 – one third of the sun, moon and stars will be darkened.

THE FIFTH TRUMPET – the angel was given the key (spiritual authority) to The fifth trumpet (and the first woe) results in a terrifying plague of “demonic locusts” that attack and torture the unsaved for five months - Rev. 9:1-11. The plague begins with a “star” falling from Heaven. This star is most likely a fallen angel, as he is given “the key to the shaft of the Abyss” – vs. 1. He opens the Abyss, releasing a horde of “locusts” with “power like that of scorpions” – v. 3. The locusts do not touch the plant life of earth; rather, they head straight for “those people who did not have the seal of God on their foreheads” – v. 4. For five months, these locusts torment people, whose agony is so great that they will wish to die, “but death will

elude them” –p v. 6. The locusts are not allowed to kill anyone, only to torture them.

THE SIXTH TRUMPET – V. 13-21. These demonic “locusts” have a “king” who is the angel of the Abyss – Rev. 9:11. In Hebrew his name is Abaddon and in Greek is Apollyon, meaning ‘Destroyer’. The locusts themselves are described in unusual terms: they look like “horses prepared for battle – v. 7. They wear something like ‘crowns of gold’ and their faces are vaguely hum – v. 7. They have hair ‘like women’s hair’ and teeth ‘like lions’ teeth’ – v. 8. They have something like iron breastplates, and their wings sound like ‘the thundering of many horses and chariots rushing into battle’ – v. 9. Like scorpions, they have stings in their tails – v. 10. This description has prompted many different interpretations; is this a vision of helicopters, of barbarian warriors, of a satanically empowered army or of actual creatures form the pit of hell. We won’t know for sure until it happens.

THE SEVENTH TRUMPET – Rev. 11:14-19 – God will rule forever! The seventh trumpet (and the third woe) sounds and immediately there are loud

voices in heaven saying, “The kingdom of the world has become the kingdom of our Lord and of his Messiah, and he will reign for ever and ever.“ Rev. 11:15

The twenty-four elders say, “The time has come for…. Destroying those who destroy the earth” – v. 18. Obviously, God is about to wrap things up once and for all. At the sound of the seventh trumpet, the temple of God is opened in heaven and “within his temple was seen the ark of his covenant. And there came flashes of lightning, rumblings, peals of thunder, an earthquake and a severe hailstorm”. – v. 19

Thus end the seven trumpet judgments. All is set for the seven angels with the seven bowls of God’s wrath. These angels stand inside the now-open temple, ready to step forward and brig the final judgments on earth (Rev. 15). The decision to escape these horrible times is made before you die.

The answer; to accept Jesus Christ as your personal Savior and commit your life to Him; John 3:15-21

Jesus is coming soon. Are you ready? I Cor. 15:51-58; I Thess. 4:13-18

HOW SHALL WE LIVE TODAY?

“Occupy until I come," said the Lord Jesus in Luke 19:13. ‘Occupy’ is an aorist imperative, meaning a command for doing something in the

future which is action. ‘Occupy’ in Greek means ‘to do business; to be occupied with…”

Paul is a great example. He wrote II Timothy 3 while in jail, with two themes:

The last times; v. 1-4 gives 18 signs of the last days – all of them are in effect today globally.
In the last days we have denied the power of the Holy Spirit; v. 5-9. Denying is a present infinitive meaning a continuous or repeated action.

‘denying’ in Greek means to contradict

Tells us to ‘live a Godly life’ v. 10-17 through:

o Doctrine

o Purpose

o Faith

o Longsuffering

o Love

o Patience

Understand that persecutions will come;
Continue in the Holy Scriptures as they are the inspiration of God.

“If the Holy Spirit left the early Church, 95% of what was happening would stop. If the Holy Spirit left the Church today, 95% of what is happening would continue”. ~~ A.W. Tozer

God bless you.

Barry Borthistle

June 2024

AMAZING FACTS ON WHY CHRISTIANS SHOULD BLESS AND SUPPORT ISRAEL

Tue, 21 May 2024 05:45:48 GMT

--Barry Borthistle, September 2016

1. Israel was God’s idea and He chose the borders and the leader, Abraham and promised

a great nation. He promised those whom blessed Israel would be blessed and those

who cursed Israel would be cursed.

Gen. 12:1-3

Paul confirms this promise that the blessing of Abraham would fall upon the Gentiles

through the power of the Holy Spirit. Gal. 3:13-16

2. God is a God of love but also a God of judgment and a great example is found in Ex.

4:22-23 where Gold says Israel is God’s firstborn. He instructs Moses to tell Pharaoh to

let Israel go or He will slay their firstborn, which He did. However, others who were not

Jewish also must have applied the blood to the doorpost because Ezek. 12:38 tells us a

mixed multitude went with them.

3. Israel is mentioned 3000 plus times in the Word of God and Jerusalem is mentioned 800

plus times.

4. When Zion (Israel) is built up, the Lord will appear in His glory – Second Coming; Psalm

102:12-24; Matt.16:27-28; II Thess. 1:7-10; I Cor. 15:51-52 - which is a mystery to the unbelievers or the United Nations.

5. God chose the boundaries of Israel and not the U.N. Num. 34

6. There are only two things that God considers to be the apple (pupil) of His eye: His

Word, Prov. 7:2 and Israel – Zech 2:8,9

Human vision is the ability to see and to know where we are going. So is the Word of God

and our support of Israel.

7. Did you know that the Prophet Ezekiel actually named the countries that would attack

Israel in the last days… about 2500 years ago? Ezekiel chapters 36 to 47.

8. Did you know that the first thing God told us to bless is Israel? Gen. 12:1-3

Up until this time God had done all the blessing.

9. Did you know that there are at least six Biblical reasons why Israel cannot give up land

for peace?

10. Did you know that there are at least seven Bible reasons on why we should support and

pray for Israel?

11. Did you know that Mein-Kamph (the Hitler Bible) is once again a top seller in Germany?

12. Did you that the I.D.F. is one of the top military forces in the world and with only a population of about 8 million and probably has the nuclear bomb? The Bible indicates there will be a nuclear explosion someday…. Which is known as The DAY OF THE LORD; Zech 14:12-15; II Peter 3:10-13

13. FOR NEARLY 2000 YEARS THE Jewish people were scattered to around 60 – 70 countries around the world and the Hebrew language disappeared. However, Zephaniah 3:9 clearly states that a pure (chosen) language, which is Hebrew will be restored.

14. Moses's final blessing on Israel before he died (Deuteronomy 33) was very extensive. The promise of sucking the abundance of the seas and the treasure in the sand. Seas = gas; sand = oil

Today it is reported that Israel is about to become an exporter of both oil and gas. Some experts suggest that Israel may have the 2nd largest oil reserves in the world next to Saudi Arabia. Other blessings include grain and wine; verse 28

15. Amos closes out the book in Chapter 9:13-15 by saying that in the last days Israel will return to the land and plant vineyards. In 1981 there were 2 vineyards; today there are 300-plus vineyards.

16. It has been calculated apparently that Abraham was born 1,948 years after Adam. Israel became a nation in 1948… after Jesus was born.

May 14, 1948, in one day in Isaiah 66:7-11, WHICH WAS ALSO PASSOVER and the first Prime Minister of Israel read the Constitution in 18 minutes… 18 in Hebrew means LIFE.

17. Did you know that the Star of Bethlehem reappeared for the first time in 2000 years, as reported on CNN? The planets of Jupiter and Venus were dancing in the sky on June 30, 2015. It was reported as a superstar and was called “the Star of Bethlehem."

Question: do you think God is trying to tell us something?

18. On May 15, 1948, one day after becoming a nation, Israel was attracted by several Arab nations and were outnumbered about 200 to 1. The Arab countries had a massive array of planes and tanks and Israel had 2 or 3 planes and a couple of tanks. Israel won!

WestPoint Military Academy will not teach about wars that Israel has won because there is no military strategy.

“I will bless those that bless you and curse those that curse you” Gen. 12:1-3

SHALOM

A BIBLICAL WORLDVIEW OF THE ISRAEL-HAMAS WAR

Fri, 17 May 2024 06:12:51 GMT

Twenty four things you should know!

The media is approaching our world from a political viewpoint but here are a few points from a Biblical point of view.

Could this be the calm before the storm? (Revelation)

1. Israel has had 8 wars since becoming a nation (on May 14, 1948) after 2000 years of exile. Isaiah 66:8

Israel has won all 8 wars… against all odds. WestPoint Military Academy will not teach the strategies of these 8 victories but the strategy is GOD.

2. You may ask WHY? Because God chose Israel and made a covenant with Abraham and God does not break HIS covenant – Genesis 12:1-3; Ps.

132:13-18.

3. There are 2 things that are the “apple of God’s eye”: Israel – Deut. 32:10 and God’s Word – Proverbs 7:2

‘Apple’ means ‘pupil’. When you look into someone’s pupil, you’ll see it acts as a mirror, reflecting your image back to you. In the Biblical context,

the Jewish people are metaphorically reflected in God’s eye. They are so precious to Him that He protects them as He would the pupil of His own eye.

4. God then tells us how to consider and treat Israel today:

a. Bless Israel – Genesis 12:1-3

b. Pray for the peace of Israel – Psalm 122:5-9; ‘peace’ – shalom means prosperity, favor, friend, good, health, rest, be well

5. God chose the Jewish people to write the entire Bible with the exception of Luke and Acts, written by the Gentile, Dr. Luke). Jesus Christ was Jewish

and all 12 disciples plus the apostle Paul, who wrote almost 50% of the New Testament.

6. “The Last Warning”- Revelation 11:1-19.

The act of measuring a certain area is clearly a symbolic action. In the prophecies of Ezekiel and Zechariah, and even later on in Revelation, there

are instances of measuring that occur. It is, of course, a sign of God’s ownership. He is claiming the measured object as his to use, either for

blessing or for judgment. That is the way we use measurement today. If you have a dispute with your neighbor over a property line, what do you

do? You hire a surveyor who measure the property and establish the boundaries. So here God has given the prophet a measuring rod with

which he measures the temple and the altar, and even the worshipers who come there. But he is told to exclude the outer court of the temple."

~~ Ray C. Stedman

7. In Revelation chapter 11, the context is with two prophets of God, probably Elijah and Moses, possibly Enoch who are instructed to measure the temple and the altar. When will the 3rd temple be rebuilt?

Dr. David Jeremiah says that it is possible it could begin before The Rapture
Two things that are ready for the rebuilding of the temple are:
A red heifer – for the first time in 2000 years – there are 4 red heifers in Jerusalem (CBN)
All utensils necessary for temple worship are ready today (Jerusalem Post)\

8. How does it all end? The Battle of Armageddon – Revelation 16:16-21

At the end of the Tribulation, the Battle of Armageddon will be the final showdown between good and evil on earth. Jesus will return as a mighty

King with Heaven’s armies to destroy all those who have rejected Him as Savior. As the forces of evil rally against Him, every man and woman on

earth will stand with Jesus or oppose Him. There will be no bystanders – the entire world will be involved. Scripture tells us the battle will end in an

instant, but it provides several details of the event.

The Location: Jesus will return to earth from the same place He ascended.

“His feet will stand on the Mount of Olives, which faces Jerusalem on the east.

And the Mount of Olives will be split in two, from east to west, making a very

large valley; half of the mountain shall move toward the north and half of it

toward the south”. Zechariah 14:4

The Lord’s return will fulfill a prophecy the angels gave when He first ascended to heaven from the Monty of Olives. “This same Jesus, who was taken up from you into heaven, will so come in like manner as you saw Him go into

heaven.” Then they returned to Jerusalem from the mount called Olivet.

Acts 1:11,12

The world will come to an end as we know it today, with this battle.

The earthquake will destroy all mountains and islands; Rev. 16:18
Hailstones around 100 pounds or more - Rev. 16:21

9. The importance of the Eastern Gate. Jerusalem has 8 gates but only one on the Eastern Wall. The East Gate faces the Mount of Olives where the

feet of Jesus will touch down when He comes back with His Bride (the Church) to set up the 1000 year reign; Zechariah 14:4; Ezekiel 10:18,10;

43:1-5

The Eastern Gate has been shut since 541 A.D. On June 5, 1967 King Hussein of Jordan, who controlled the Eastern Gate

and East Jerusalem, announced he would open the gate so that Muslims could walk through it. God said “no” – the 6 Day War started on June 6th!

Noah’s ark had 3 floors but only one gate. Some scholars say that there was only one gate on the ark and that it was on the east side.

10. There will never be a two-state solution because God, not the United Nations, named the borders of Israel and it includes Gaza, which Israel gave

up in 2005 and Lebanon; Numbers 34

11. Israel will never be defeated; Jeremiah 31:35-37

12. When you attack the Jewish people, you touch “the apple of God’s eye”. ‘Touch’ (Hebrew) means to be violent – to strike – to smite. Zechariah 2:8

13. The prayer in Psalm 83 is that God will defeat Israel’s enemies and judge the nations. Why? Verse18 ‘ that men may know that Your name alone is

Jehovah, the Most High over all the earth.'

14. Imbedded into the Hamas charter is that once land falls into the Hamas or Muslim hands, the land is reclaimed for Allah.

15. “The Hamas/Israel war could be the beginning of the Gog/Magog war”

~~ Joel Rosenberg Ezekiel chapters 36 - 39

16. This war is a spiritual war with the powers of darkness and will eventually lead to the end of our world as we know it today. Revelation 16:16-21

(see point 8)

17. Consider this: the Hebrew language is the only dead language (2000 years) to be restored. Why? So the Jewish people can serve the Lord with one voice. Zephaniah 3:9

18. After creation, God was sorry that He had created mankind, but in His mercy gave them 120 years to repent; Genesis 6:1-8. Noah and his

family found grace in the eyes of the Lord; Genesis 6:8. We are given grace as a gift along with faith; Romans 12:3. Do not ask for a gift that

God has already given you, rather praise and thank Him daily.

19. Jesus said He would return when the days were like the days of Noah. Matthew 24:36,37.

What were the days of Noah like?

a. Anti-God

b. Sexual immorality

c. Violence – (Hebrew word – ‘hamas’)

20. The Lord does not tell us the time of His coming but He does give us signs:

Take heed – be aware
False prophets
Wars and rumors of wars
Famines
Earthquakes
Pestilence (pandemics)
Apostasy
Persecution

Jesus gives us this advice in Matthew 4-14; particularly verse 6 and 8 where He says “do not be troubled” and “this is the beginning of sorrows”;

(def. birth pains in the Greek. All of these are in effect today.)

21. In II Timothy 3:1-5, in the last times, perilous or stressful times will come. Paul then give us 18 signs of the End times which are all in effect

today – big time and around the world! The reason for this – verse 5 – we are denying the power of the Holy Spirit – (def. denying – to reject, to

contradict). 58% of Christians do not believe that the Holy Spirit is God.

(Barna)

22. Modern day Syria? Damascus is mentioned 57 times in the Bible and is the oldest known city in the world. Isaiah 17:1-3 foretells the destruction

of Damascus in the last days, prior to the Day of the Lord. Also described in Jeremiah 49:23-27.

23. Egypt in the Bible (Isaiah 19:1) represents the world and the world system, the New World Order. Egypt is mentioned almost 700 times in the

Old Testament and 25 in the New Testament.

Egypt has a tremendous symbolic significance in the Bible. Israel’s redemption from Egypt is a picture of our deliverance form sin and death

through faith in Jesus Christ. (Gal. 3:13; 4:5; Titus 2:14). While initially seen as a place of refuge in famine or threat, Egypt becomes a place of

oppression and slavery. For New Testament believers, Egypt represent sour old life of slavery to sin. All people are, by nature, slaves of sin, and

Satan is a much harsher taskmaster than the Egyptian overseers. The natural man labors powerlessly under the weight of sin (Romans 7:22-25).

God redeemed His people from slavery in Egypt by the blood of the lamb on the first Passover (Ex. 12) and He redeems us from sin by the blood of

the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world (John 1:29; I Peter 1:18,19). Just as God called His people, the Israelites, out of bondage I

Egypt, He calls us, His children, to “come out and be separate” and live holy lives in His kingdom (II Cor. 6:17).

The New World Order is being promoted by the World Economic Forum.

“The new world is shifting alliances”. ~~ The Economist

I have a 50 page Biblical study on the Coming New world Order.

Is there hope? YES. Praise the Lord. II Chronicles 7:13-15. God will heal (divine intervention) our land IF …. Our choice.

“The word of God was not given to us for information but for

transformation”. ~~ D. L. Moody

“The [secular] humanist system of values has now become the

predominant way of thinking in most of the power centers of society”.

~~ James Dobson

“A Biblical worldview has a radical effect on a person and inspires faith for everyday life”. Barna

The Bible is a roadmap for renewal and revival. Question: are we willing to commit to the roadmap? The Vital importance of a Biblical Worldview

especially in our world today – for End Times. Revival will not come without repentance. I John 1:5-10. Only 10% are preaching about

repentance or sin (Barna).

“A Gospel that does not deal with the issues of the day is not a

gospel at all”. ~~ Martin Luther

Jesus said, “Occupy (do business or trade) until I come”. ‘Occupy’ is an imperative, meaning ‘a command for doing something in the future that is

a simple action.

Revelation chapter 9 indicates that an army of 200 million – probably China – will kill 1/3 of all mankind in this battle. The times will be so bad that people will want to die to escape God’s judgment. But God still wants them to come to

repentance.

“Out of the smoke locusts came upon the earth; these are obviously not

natural locusts. They avoid plants and attack men like scorpions attack.

They are “a visual representation of the hordes of demons loosed upon the

earth”. ~~ Walvoord

CONCLUSION:

The time to surrender to Jesus Christ is today, before the Return of Jesus Christ;

I Corinthians 15:51-58; I Thessalonians 4:12-15

If a person does not accept Christ as Saviour before He returns, he or she will enter the 7 year Tribulation period. During the last 3 1/2 years will be ‘hell on earth’. During this time, according to Dr. David Jeremiah, many will accept Christ but most who do, will probably be martyred. Unless they have the mark of Satan, which is ‘666’ on their forehead of hand, they will not be able to buy or

sell.

Claim your salvation today! John 3:15-20

Shalom

Barry Borthistle

bborthistle@shaw.ca

www.solomonsporchteaching.com

How To Overcome Worry and Fear and Attain God's Wisdom

Fri, 17 May 2024 04:07:45 GMT

Barry and Ruth on How To Let Go of Worries and Find God's Wisdom

Did You Know Your Body Was Made For Complete Wellness?

Physical.....Emotional....Spiritual

Why? Because You Were Created as the Temple of God - 1 Cor. 3:16,17

“Worrying never takes away tomorrow’s worry or fear and can cause many

illnesses.” ~~ Web MD

Have I got great news for you!! How to overcome worry

and fear and to gain the wisdom of God.

Barry Borthistle, a SPIRITUAL ENTREPRENEUR With a Biblical Worldview - bborthistle@shaw.ca

The Vital Importance of a Biblical Worldview Especially In Our World Today - For End Times

Sun, 21 Apr 2024 02:13:49 GMT

THE VITAL IMPORTANCE OF A BIBLICAL WORLDVIEW

ESPECIALLY IN OUR WORLD TODAY - FOR END TIMES

Jesus is Coming Again

A Biblical Worldview has a radical effect on a person’s life and inspires faith for everyday life.

“A Gospel that does not deal with the issues of the day is not a gospel at all” ~~ Martin Luther

“The Christian belief system (worldview) which the Christian knows to be grounded in divine revelation is relevant to all of life.” ~~ Carl. F. H. Henry

“The [secular] humanist system of values has now become the predominant way of thinking in most of the power centers of society.” ~~ James Dobson

“Any objective social analyst would conclude that the United Sates faces its fair share of moral and spiritual problems. A new research study from Barna Group suggests that a large share of the nation’s moral and spiritual challenges is directly attributable to the absence of a Biblical worldview among Americans.” ~~ Barna

Many of the questions that people are asking all over the world today: “Is this the end of the world?” “Is this the End Times?”

A Biblical worldview of End Times has at least 7 major time frames.

The Bible is a roadmap for renewal and revival.

Question: Are we willing to commit to the roadmap?

The Biblical Worldview of the roadmap includes:

1. Old Testament prophecy

2. Signs of the Times – today

3. The Return of Jesus Christ – The Rapture

4. The Seven Year Tribulation Period

5. The Return of Christ with His Bride, the Church for 1000 year reign

6. The final two judgments: the Bema Judgment and the Great White Throne Judgment

7. The New Jerusalem

OLD TESTAMENT PROPHECY

The Word of God is approximately 30% prophetic.

We are encouraged to read – hear – keep- Biblical prophecy and we will be blessed, if we do. Rev. 1:3

In the Book of Daniel, which is the Revelation of the Old Testament and full of prophesy, the Holy Spirit tells Daniel to shut up the words and seal the book to the time of the end (Daniel 12:4).

He gives two signs of the times.

1. Travel shall increase…from the horse in Daniel’s day to space travel today

2. Knowledge shall increase. In the 1900’s, knowledge increased every 100 years; in 1945 knowledge increased every year and now today, knowledge doubles every 24 hours. ~~ IBM

From Dr. Ed Hinson of Liberty University:

1. There are approximately 2000 prophecies in the Word of God

2. Approximately 1500 have been fulfilled

3. Approximately 500 yet to be fulfilled according to the Book of Revelation.

4. Jesus Christ not to return until Israel became a nation. Isaiah 66:8,9. After 2000 years of exile, Israel became a nation on May 14, 1948.

5. There is no prophecy that needs to be fulfilled before the return of Christ.

SIGNS OF THE TIMES

There are 3 main chapters in the New Testament concerning prophecy and End Times:

· Matthew 24

· Luke 21

· II Timothy 3

· Plus the entire Book of Revelation

In Matthew 24:4, the first thing Jesus said was “take heed” – to be aware of what is coming.

In verses 5 – 8, he outlines 5 signs:

1. Time of deception - apostacy

2. Wars – approximately 40 wars happening today - eg. Russia and Ukraine(Wikipedia); rumors of wars including China/Taiwan; Iran/Israel; and nuclear threats. Russia has just cancelled the nuclear agreement with U.S.A.

3. Famine – there is a food crisis coming that will be catastrophic. ~~ Economist magazine

4. Pestilence, plagues and pandemics. The word ‘plague’ is used over 100 times.

“Most plagues in the Bible are used of God to bring people to repentance”. ~~ Dr. Joel Rosenberg.

“All plagues are of God for repentance” ~~ Dr. Jim Showers, Friends of Israel.

5. Earthquakes - over 20,000 occurred in 2022, most ever on record. ~~ Wikipedia.

Is Turkey a warning of what is coming? God often uses earthquakes to announce a major event. When Christ died, a major earthquake took place:

· The veil of the Temple was ripped and now Christ is our High Priest (Heb. 4:14-16).

· Graves were opened and the dead arose and walked the streets of Jerusalem; (Matt. 27:45-56)

Then Jesus said: v. 6 and 8

1. Do not be troubled

2. These things must all come to pass

3. This is the beginning of sorrows ; ie. Birth pains

4. The end is not yet

Jesus gave us more signs: v. 9-14

1. Persecution is coming. 1 in 7 Christians around the world suffered some type of persecution in 2022 and over 100,000 were killed ~~ Open Doors

2. Hatred will increase. There were 70 mass shootings in the U.S.A. in the first 45 days of 2023; ~~ Fox News

3. False Prophets Shall Rise. ~~ New York Times. Christian prophets are on the rise. What happens when they are wrong? Christianity is in crisis.

4. Many will wax cold. (not on fire, not willing to ignite a blaze). II Timothy 3 talks about persecutions and apostasy.

5. We must endure. ( to persevere; to abide; to suffer) v. 14 – When will the end come? When all the world has heard the Gospel.

No one knows the timing of the Return of Jesus Christ, (Matt.24:36,37) but Jesus said it would be as in the time like the days of Noah; Genesis chapters 6 to 9

What were those days like?

· Anti-God

· Sexual immorality

· Violence (def. in Hebrew – Hamas)

THE RETURN OF JESUS CHRIST – FACTS

1. The dead in Christ shall rise first

2. Those alive will be caught up to meet Jesus in the air

3. We are to comfort (to exhort, to pray for) one another comfort is a present imperative, meaning continuous or repeated action

4. This will occur in the twinkling of an eye

5. This is a mystery to the world. Mystery = secret. There are 14 mysteries in the New Testament known only to believers. Six of the 14 mysteries are about End Times (I Thess. 4:13-18; I Cor. 15:51).

THE SEVEN YEAR TRIBULATION PERIOD

What is the Tribulation?

The tribulation is a future seven-year period when God will finish His discipline of Israel and finalize His judgment of the unbelieving world. The church, comprised of all who have trusted in the person and work of the Lord Jesus, will not be present during the tribulation. I take a pre-tribulational approach to eschatology. The church will be removed from the earth in an event called the rapture (I Thess. 4:13-18; I Cor. 15:51-58). In this way, the Church is saved from the wrath to come (I Thess. 5:9).

“ That day will be a day of wrath – a day of distress and anguish, a day of trouble and ruin, a day of darkness and gloom, a day of clouds and blackness – a day of trumpet and battle cry (Zephaniah 1:16)."

The tribulation will be marked by various divine judgments, celestial disturbances, natural disasters and terrible plagues (see Rev. 6 – 16). In His mercy, God sets a limit on the duration of the tribulation. As Jesus said, “Those will be days of distress unequaled from the beginning, when God created the world until now – and never to be equaled again. If the Lord had not cut short those days, no one would survive (Rev. 13:19,20).

THE RETURN OF CHRIST WITH HIS CHURCH TO BEING THE 1000 YEAR REIGN

The feet of Jesus will land on the top of the Mount of Olives, which will split in two. (Zechariah 14:1-4). The Holiday Inn would not construct a hotel on that location because they were told that Mt. Olives had a fault running through the middle of the mountain.

The millennium (also known as the millennial kingdom) is the 1,000 year reign of Jesus after the tribulation and before the Great White Throne Judgment of the wicked. During the millennium, Jesus will reign as King over Israel and all the nations of the world (Isaiah 2:4; 42:1). The world will live in peace (Isaiah 11:6-9; 32:18), Satan will be bound (Revelation 20:1-3) and, at the beginning, everyone will worship God (Isaiah 2:2,3). The purpose of the 1000 year reign is to fulfill various promises God made to the world. Some of these promises, called covenants, were given specifically to Israel. Others were given to Jesus, the nations of the world and creation. Jesus’ 1000 year reign will be a time of promises kept. Remember, “1000 years is like a day unto the Lord” II Peter 3:8.

THERE ARE TWO JUDGMENTS COMING

1. The Great White Throne Judgment is for unbelievers and is described in Rev. 20:11-15 and is the final judgment prior to the lost being cast into the

lake of fire. We know from Revelation 20:7-15 that this judgement will take place after the millennium and after Satan is thrown into the lake of

fire where the beast and the false prophets are (Rev. 19:19,20; 20:7-10). The books that are opened (Rev. 20:12) contain records of everyone’s

deeds, whether they are good or evil, because God knows everything that has ever been said, done, or even thought, and He will reward or punish

each one accordingly. (Psalm 28:4; 62:12; Romans 2:6; Rev. 2:23; 18:6;22:12).

2. What is the Judgment Seat of Christ? The Bema Judgment Seat. The Bible speaks of a special judgment that God will hold for believers only. It

is known as the judgement seat of Christ or the judgment seat of God. Paul wrote, “For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ,

that each one may receive the things done in the body, according to what we have done whether good or bad.” (II Cor. 5:10; Rom. 14:10) All

believers will stand before God and be individually judged. The Bible also talks about the reward of five crowns for the believers for our work while on earth.

WHAT IS THE NEW JERUSALEM

The New Jerusalem, which is also called the Tabernacle of God, the Holy City, the City of God, the Celestial City, the City Foursquare, and Heavenly Jerusalem, is literally heaven on earth. It is referred to in the Bible in several places (Galatians 4:26; Hebrews 11:10; 12:22-24; 13:14) but it is most fully described in Revelation 21.

In Revelation 21, the recorded history of man is at its end. All of the ages have come and gone. Christ has gathered His Church in the Rapture (I Thessalonians 4:13-18). The Tribulation has passed (Revelation 6 – 18). The battle of Armageddon has been fought and won by our Lord Jesus Christ (Rev. 18:17-21). Satan has been chained for the 1000 year reign of Christ on earth (Rev. 20:1-3). A glorious Temple has been established in Jerusalem (Ezekiel 40 – 48). THE FINAL REBELLION AGAINST God has been quashed and Satan has received his just punishment, an eternity in the lake of fire (Rev. 20:7-10). The Great White Throne Judgment has taken place and mankind has been judged (Rev. 20:11-15).

The New Jerusalem will be fantastically huge. John records that the city is nearly 1,400 miles long and is as wide and as high as it is long. The New Jerusalem being in equal in length, width and depth (Rev. 21:15-17). The city will be dazzling in every way. It is lighted by the Glory of God (verse 23). Its twelve foundations, bearing the names of the twelve apostles, are “decorated with every kind of precious stone” (v. 19). It has twelve gates, each a single pearl, bearing the names of the twelve tribes of Israel (v. 12 and 21). The street will be made of pure gold (v. 21).

The New Jerusalem will be a place of unimagined blessing. The curse of the old earth will be gone (Rev. 22:3). In the city are the tree of life “for the healing of the nations” and the river of life (v. 1,2). It is the place that Paul spoke of “in the coming ages [God] might show the incomparable riches of His grace, expressed in His kindness to us in Christ Jesus” (Eph. 2:7). The New Jerusalem is the ultimate fulfillment of all God’s promises. The New Jerusalem is God’s goodness made fully manifest. Compare this to the Old Testament Holy of Holies, where only the High Priest could enter and only on the Day of Atonement, where God would speak to him. The Holy of Holies was also a cube of about 30 feet. The Holy of Holies was in total darkness except for the Day of Atonement. Praise God for the New Covenant where we will have daylight 100% of the time in the New

Jerusalem.

TWO SIGNS OF THE TIMES

NOT REALIZED BY A LOT OF PEOPLE

China is not mentioned by name in the Bible. However, an army of 200 million men will march across a dried-up Euphrates River to attack Israel. Revelation 16 tells the story. According to the New York Times, the Euphrates is about 50% dried up today. This will be the Battle of Armageddon, which will end the world, as we know it today. And to finish the world, the Lord will send:

Hailstones, each weighing 100 pounds or more
The largest earthquakes the world has ever seen that will:

o Divide Jerusalem into three parts

o Destroy mountains and islands – but men who sin is so great they blasphemed God

The second sign of the times is not well known, it is the call for:

One world government
One world currency

The World Economic Forum has called for a one world currency which no doubt will be linked to the number 666. 666 is the number of the beasts (Wikipedia) (Rev. 13:17-18) and no one will be able to buy or sell without the mark of the beast.

Today over 5000 Swedes have microchip implants. To allow them to buy anything without cash. ~~ BBC

Elon Musk, who is not invited to the WEF said, “the single world government could doom humanity."

TIME FOR A RESET

KLAUS SCHWAB is founder and Executive Chairman of the World Economic Forum. He is the author of “Stakeholder Capitalism: A Global Economy that

Works for Progress, People and Planet."

GENEVA – Covid 19 lockdowns may be gradually easing but anxiety about the world’s social and economic prospects is only intensifying. There is good reason to worry: a sharp economic downturn has already begun and we could be facing the worst depression since the 1930’s. But, while this outcome is likely it is not unavoidable.

To achieve a better outcome, the world must act jointly and swiftly to revamp all aspects of our societies and economies, from education to social contracts and working conditions. Every country, from the United States to China, must participate, and every industry, from oil and gas to tech, must be transformed. In short, we need a “Great Reset” of capitalism.

DAVOS-KLOSTERS, 16-20 January

The world today is at a critical inflection point. The twin triggers of the Covid19 pandemic and the war in Ukraine rattled an already brittle global system. Economic growth in the world’s largest economies is stalling, while navigating headwinds from rising food and energy prices. For the first time since the 1970’s, the world is facing a precarious disequilibrium with growth and inflation moving in opposite directions. This is occurring alongside heightened geo-economic fragmentation, financial sector vulnerabilities, including stretched asset prices and high debt levels, and a climate crisis spiraling out of control, which could magnify any growth slowdown, particularly in emerging markets. Unless these systemic and interconnected risks are addressed, the promise of a “decade of action” may become a decade of uncertainty and fragility.

Quotes:

1. China is our model

2. Own nothing and be happy

3. No ownership. Personal real estate

4. We need to live in the world in a different way

Membership in World Economic Forum, as I understand it, by 2023, according to WEF records: 195 countries involved globally; there are 197 countries in the world.

People involved:

1. Joe Biden

2. Justin Trudeau

3. Al Gore

4. Bill Gates

5. George Soros

6. John Kerry

Companies you may know:

1. Bank of America

2. Goldman-Sacks

3. Johnson and Johnson

4. Procter and Gamble

5. Coca-Cola

6. HSBC Bank

7. Chevron

8. Blackrock, which holds about 30% of USA retirement funds

JOE BIDEN – “the world needs a new world order and the U.S.A. must lead the

way."

Additional interesting facts:

1. It appears that China and Germany are two big supporters.

2. About 40 heads of state attended the January 2023 convention

3. Over 2000 leaders from all walks of life

4. World Health Organization and United Nations involved

5. Over 1000 CEO’s from around the world

6. WEF is self-funded by membership fees, with over 1000 companies

involved, to the run of over $5 billion.

HOW SHALL WE THEN LIVE TODAY?

1. Repent of sin – daily. Barna’s research indicates that only 10% of

pastors today are preaching about repentance or sin. Psalm 66:18;

Proverbs 1:28,29

“Christianity is based upon repentance” ~~ R.C. Sproule

“Whatever happened to repentance?” ~~ David Wilkerson

“Repentance does not end with salvation”. ~~ Dr. Martyn Lloyd Jones

The very first word in the teaching of John the Baptist and Jesus Christ was REPENT. Matt. 3:2; 4:17; Acts 2:38

A change in man’s conduct could bring about a change in God’s judgment. God is free of sin but HIS mercy endures forever.

Def. ‘repented’ – sorry, mercy. Noah found grace. People were given 120 years to repent. We are given grace and faith; Rom. 12:3

God repented of His decision to destroy Nineveh; Jonah 3:10

‘Repented’ for God means ‘to change His mind’...

Question: Can the repentance of His people change the time of His return?

Answer: I do not know but I do know this, that “He is not willing that any

should perish but that all should come to repentance.” II Peter 3:9

2. “Occupy” or ‘do business’ until He comes; Luke 19:13

Key point: keep on living and enjoy what god has given you.

3. “Watch and pray” Mark 13:32-37 Key point: watch, keep awake, be alert, spiritual alertness; the word ‘vigilant’ is mentioned 4 times

4. “Give thanks to God”. I Cor. 15:57,58 Key point: Be steadfast, fixed, moral, settled, immoveable – firm in your Biblical worldview; abounding,

better, exceed, excel, over and above, in the work of the Lord.

5. “Always be ready” Matt.24:44 Key point: be prepared for the return of the Lord

6. Live in faith and love. “without Faith, it is impossible (impotent) to please God; Heb. 11:6; I Cor. 13:13 – love, which is the greatest gift.

7. PRAY. II Chron. 7:13-15 Pray means:

a. To make supplication, to ask for. There are at least 12 preparation steps for prayer in order for God even to hear our prayer. Two of the most important are repentance (I John 1:5-10 – 5 ‘ifs’ in that chapter) and forgiving others (Matt. 6:14,15).

b. Seek my face; seek me to search out, to worship or to request (Psalm 80:7,19).

c. Turn from your wicked ways. ;’turn’ means return to the starting point or to relinquish. Solomon used the word ‘turn’ three times in his prayer (II Chron. 6:26,37,42).

If we do these 3 things, here is God’s Promise to Us:

o I will hear you from Heaven. ‘Hear’ means attention.

o I will forgive your sin as far as the East is from the West (Psalm 103:12).

o I will ‘heal’ your land, which means to mend like a physician, to repair thoroughly…. DIVINE INTERVENTION. The word ‘heal’ is also used in Isaiah 57:17,18 in the context of our salvation.

8. Humble ourselves. V. 14. To me, this is one of the most incredible verse in the Bible because it is directed to us today. “if” (our choice) my people

who are called by name will do four things….” Humble themselves, which means to bend the knee. It is used in II Chron. 34:27. Spurgeon said,

“voluntary humbleness is what God is looking for” – that’s what Solomon did!

The only way to not experience the terrible seven year tribulation is to REPENT – ACCEPT JESUS CHRIST as personal Savior and live for HIM today. John 3:15-18

HABAKKUK WAS A SPOKESMAN FOR GOD, ARE WE?

Like Job, Habakkuk not only speaks about trouble, but they lived through it. The Holy Spirit instructed him to write about the trials he experience in a vision; Hab. 2:10-4. Included in the vision is the word ‘salvation’ in 3:18. “Salvation’ is the Hebrew word from which the name of Jesus is derived in Matt. 1:23 – IMMANUEL, which means, God with us. It is a name of Jesus Christ. It’s prophesied in Isaiah 7:14 and 8:8. The Lord answered Habakkuk’s prayer just as He answers us; Hab. 2:1-4.

Chuck Smith on Habakkuk Days:

It seems everything was going wrong
Evil was triumphing over good
The judicial system had broken down
The courts had become a mockery
The guilty were not being punished
Prisoners were being released to continue their crimes
Respect had been lost for the law
Violence increased.

Habakkuk was very frustrated because he believed God was not answering his prayers. But GOD DID ANSWER. Hab. 2:1. Habakkuk was prepared to wait

for God to answer. Like the eagle, we also should be prepared to wait on HIM. (Isaiah 40:31)

HERE’S WHAT GOD TOLD HABAKKUK

1. Write the vision. Five instructions on the importance of having a vision:

Write it down – God did
Make it clear and plain – God did
Make an appointed timeline – God is in control of our vision but we need a timeline.

It may take time but wait for it – God did.

2. What was Habakkuk’s response? His prayer for revival, even though there was a pandemic was: (vs. 5) “The just shall live by faith. Even though

things may not be improved, Habakkuk was prepared to accept three instructions from the Lord:

o Rest in the Lord

o Stand still… wait

o Fret not thyself

3. The just shall (not – might or maybe) live by faith. These are the words that inspired Martin Luther for the Reformation.

WHAT IS YOUR VISION?

CONCLUSION

As the Temple of the Holy Spirit (I Cor. 3:16,17; 6:17-20) there are at least 3 New Testament sacrifices that the Lord commands us to make, not for sin but to praise Him for what He has done for us.

1. Present our bodies, His temple, as a holy sacrifice, so that we will be transformed , which is our reasonable service; Rom. 12:1,2

2. Sacrifice of praise continually and the fruit of our lips is to give thanks. Heb. 13:15. “The Lord inhabits (dwells) in the praises of His people." Psalm 22:3

3. God is well pleased when we do good and communicate. Greek def. ‘communicate’ is koinonia – to be in partnership – with – to share. Other

New Testament words that come from koinonia:

Fellowship
Communion
Partner
Communicate
Partner
Distribution
Contribution

Barry Borthistle,

bborthistle@shaw.ca

How to Overcome Worry and Fear and Attain God's Wisdom

Fri, 19 Apr 2024 22:50:17 GMT

Did You Know Your Body Was Made For Complete Wellness?

Physical.....Emotional....Spiritual

Why? Because You Were Created as the Temple of God - 1 Cor. 3:16,17

“Worrying never takes away tomorrow’s worry or fear and can cause many

illnesses.” ~~ Web MD

Have I got great news for you!! How to overcome worry

and fear and to gain the wisdom of God.

Barry Borthistle, a SPIRITUAL ENTREPRENEUR With a Biblical Worldview - bborthistle@shaw.ca

A Biblical worldview has a radical effect on a person’s life:

“Any objective social analyst would conclude that the United States faces its fair share of moral and spiritual problems. A new research

study from Barna Group suggests that a large share of the nation’s moral and spiritual challenges is directly attributable to the absence of a Biblical worldview among Americans. Citing the findings from a just completed national survey, adults that showed only 6% of adults have a biblical worldview as the basis of their decision-making. Researcher George Barna described the outcome, ‘if Jesus Christ came to this planet as a model of how we ought to live, then our goal should be to act like Jesus. Sadly, few people consistently demonstrate the love, obedience and priorities of Jesus. The primary reason that people do not act like Jesus is because they do not think like Jesus. Behavior stems from what we think – our attitudes, beliefs, values and opinions. Although most people own a Bible and know some of its content, our research found that most Americans have little idea how to integrate core biblical principles to form a unified and meaningful response to the challenges and opportunities of life. We’re often more concerned with survival amidst chaos than with experiencing truth and significance."

~~ Barna

Worldview matters! I want to have a radical impact on people’s lives using the messages in my three books. How you see the world has consequences for what you do, what you value and what you pass along to the next generation. A worldview that isn’t firmly anchored to the truth of God’s Word is ultimately going to shift and change with the ideas that prevail in our culture.

The strategy is to build a strategic partner network to reach a global audience and help people think like Jesus. Every single decision that you make - and you make hundreds of them if not thousands of decisions every single day – every one of those flows through your worldview.

MY EZEKIEL WATCHMAN CALLING

Ezekiel 33

Verses 1-9. Ezekiel, more than any other Old Testament prophet, teaches us that the Word of the Lord is never far from God’s servant when we are willing to listen; verses 16-27…the Watchman’s Duty

Verses 10-20 personal accountability

My calling:

• Over the years, 12 people have called me a Jeremiah, three from India, three from the US and six from Canada. This is a very humbling

experience.

• Over the years, I have written in my Bible 7 times over Ezekiel 33, that I was willing to be a watchman if that is God’s will.

• The calling has been growing, but at 83 years of age the calling makes no sense. God will not leave me.

• I have had several prophetic words over the past few years, but nothing like June 3, 2022 when I received an email out of the blue from a friend, Michael Ellison, saying, “Just read Ezekiel 33."

Preparation for this Calling: Covid19 changed my life as it did for millions. I lost about 80% of my net worth but in many ways it was the best thing that has ever happened to me because it showed me the importance of living by faith, as God’s temple (I Cor. 3:16,17; Hebrews 11:6). It is impossible to please God without faith. “Impossible” in Greek means "impotent."

God led me to write my first book, “Your Body is God’s Temple” during this period. The book was inspired by a quote in The Wall Street Journal:

“Who will save us now that the monster Covid19 has broken

free? The pandemic has humbled the country and the world

and has opened up millions of eyes to this risky universe once

more. For societies build on Biblical traditions pandemics

need not make the end. They are a call for repentance and

revival…. Great struggle can produce great clarity. In the

Old Testament, it would seem that men of spiritual resources

may not only redeem catastrophe but turn it into a grand

creative moment”.

“ Not many of you should become teachers (self-constituted censors and reprovers of others), my brethren, for you know that we [teachers] will be judged by a higher standard and with greater severity than other people, thus we assume the greater accountability and the more condemnation (James 3:1)."

The Vital Importance of a Biblical Worldview

“A worldview is the most important thing that we know about a man or a woman.” ~~ Richard Weaver

“A Gospel that does not deal with the issues of the day is not a Gospel at all." ~~ Martin Luther

“A Biblical worldview approach to life and learning has never been more needed than in today’s pluralistic/postmodern culture. Christian students face hostility to their faith from one side and apathy to anything of importance from the other side. And, sadly the casualties are high.”

~~ Chuck Edwards and John Stonestreet

The Mystery of Israel (Jews) accepting Jesus Christ is found in Romans 11:25-36. Def. ‘mystery’ – secret, hidden… there are 14 mysteries in the New Testament.

Rabbi Daniel Lapin’s warning to U.S. Christians:

“I am certainly not a Churchill. I am not even a Revel. I am having enough trouble just trying to be a Lapin. But I am issuing a very serious warning about deep consequences, just as they did. It is a warning about the earliest stages of what could became a cataract of disasters if not resisted now. During the 1930’s, Winston Churchill desperately tried to persuade the English people and their government to see that Hitler meant to end their way of life. The British ignored Churchill, which gave Hitler nearly 10 years to build up his military forces. It wasn’t until Hitler actually drew blood that the British realized they had a war on their hands. It turned out to be a far longer and more

destructive war than it needed to be had Churchill’s early warning been heeded.

Heaven knows there was enough warning during the 1980’s of the intention of part of Islamic world to take another crack at world domination. Yet instead of seeing each deadly assault on our interests around the world as a test of our resolve, we ignored it. We failed the test and lost 3,000 Americans, Canadians and others in two unforgettable hours. I am not going to argue that what is happening now is on the same scale as the example I cite above, but a serious war is being waged against a group of Americans. I am certain that if we lose this war, the consequences for American civilization will be dire."

Hitler began to educate the youth and by 1939, 97% were obedient to becoming a Nazi. Stalin and Mao-Zedong followed the same principles.

WISDOM OVER WORRY and FEAR – PSALM 37

Have you noticed that God-care is the new norm?

Psalm 37:1-7

1. Fret not thyself because of evildoers, neither be thou envious against the workers of iniquity.

2. For they shall soon be cut down like the grass, and wither as the green herb.

3. Trust in the Lord, and do good; so shalt thou dwell in the land; and verily thou shalt be fed.

4. Delight thyself also in the Lord; and he shall give thee the desires of thine heart.

5. Commit thy way unto the Lord; trust also in him; and he shall bring it to pass.

6. And he shall bring forth thy righteousness as the light, and thy judgment as the noonday.

7. Rest in the Lord, and wait patiently for him; fret not thyself because of him who prospereth in his way, because of the man who bringeth wicked devices to pass.

This Psalm is simply titled “A Psalm of David”. Psalm 37:25 tells us that it is David in his older years, giving wisdom in the pattern of a song. This psalm is roughly acrostic in arrangement, with the lines arranged with Hebrew sentences that begin with the successive letters of the Hebrew alphabet. In style this is a wisdom psalm, direct not to God but to man, teaching after the manner of the Book of Proverbs.

17 commands of obedience:

Fret not because of evil doers
Do not be envious of evil
Trust in the Lord
Do good
Delight yourself in the Lord
Commit your way unto the Lord
Rest in the Lord
Wait patiently for God
Fret not because of prosperity of others
Fret not because of wicked plots against you
Cease from anger
Forsake wrath
Fret not yourself to do evil
Depart form evil
Keep His way
Mark the perfect man
Behold the upright

25 Promises of Obedience – Psalm 37

Dwell in the land forever
Be free
Give desires of the heart
Bring things to pass
Bring righteousness to light
Bring judgment at noonday
Evildoers be cut off
Earth as an inheritance
Abundance of peace
Upheld by God
Eternal inheritance
Not be ashamed in evil times
Satisfied in time of famine
Not be cast down in a fall
Not forsaken by God
Preservation by God forever
Seed of wicked cut off
None of steps shall slide
Lord will not give over to the wicked – the Lord will not condemn
In the end will have peace
Salvation
Strength from God in trouble
Help from God
Deliverance from the wicked

One of the most striking examples of this principle is found in I Samuel where the prophet Samuel declares to King Saul: “Hath the Lord as great delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices, as in obeying the voice of the Lord? Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice and to hearken than the fat of rams (I Samuel 15:22)."

Psalm 37:1-7

v. 1,2 Fret not, do not get heated. Fretting is wrong and harmful. Evil doers will soon be cut down, like grass, which only last for a season (Morgan)

v. 3-5 Four steps we must take:

o Trust – confident hope – Prov. 3:4-6

o Delight – to be soft , v. 11 “but the meek will inherit the earth and shall delight themselves in the abundance of peace

o Commit - to seek – seek and ye shall find; Matt. 7:7; Psalm 25:12-15

o Wait - Isaiah 40:31

There are two judgments coming:

Bema judgment – for believers, five crowns will be given; II Cor. 5:10
Great White Throne judgment – for unbelievers – death and hell; Rev. 20:11-15

There are at least 4 gifts, along with salvation, that God has given us to deal with worry and fear:

Peace John 14:27
Faith Romans 12:3
Grace Romans 12:3
Always with us Matt. 28:19,20

The Lord wants us to pray for something that He has given us. We must praise and thank Him because God dwells in the praises of His people (Psalm 22:3).

Delight Yourself in God

“Does a way exist for us to have our desires fulfilled? According to Psalm 37:4 and 5, if we delight ourselves in the Lord, He will give us the desires of our hearts. I have learned that letting God give me something is so much better than trying to get it for myself. Most of us struggle greatly in our lives, trying to make things happen that only God can do. He wants us to seek Him and He promises that He will add the things we desire if and when the time is right. We are to commit our way unto Him and let Him bring the things that we desire to pass. Jesus said all those who labor and are heavy-laden should come to Him. He promised to ease, relieve, and refresh their souls (Matt. 11:25-30). His ways are higher than our ways and His thoughts are higher than ours. In other words, God knows much better than we do what we need to do!

YOU CAN TRUST HIM

“He’s the One who made us. It is He who made us and not we ourselves. The heavens declare the glory of God, and the firmament shows His handiwork. No means of measure can define His limitless love and no farseeing telescope can bring into the visibility the coastline of His shoreless supply. I’m telling you today…. You can trust Him. No barrier can hinder Him from pouring out His blessing. He’s enduringly strong and he’s entirely sincere. He’s eternally steadfast and He is immortally graceful. He’s empirically, powerfully and impartially merciful. He’s the greatest phenomenon that has ever crossed the horizon of his world. He’s God’s Son. He’s the sinner’s Savior. He’s the centerpiece of civilization. I’m trying to tell you, Church …. You can trust Him.

He does not have to call for help and you can’t confuse Him. He doesn’t need you and He doesn’t need me. He stands alone in the solitude of

Himself. He’s august and He’s unique. He’s unparalleled. He’s unprecedented. He’s supreme. He’s preeminent. He’s the loftiest idea in literature. He’s the highest personality in philosophy. He’s the supreme problem of higher criticism. He’s the fundamental doctrine of truthology. He’s the cardinal necessity of the spiritual religion. He’s the miracle of the age. He’s the superlative of everything good that you can call Him… I’m trying to tell you that… you can trust Him. He can satisfy all your needs and he can do it simultaneously. He supplies strength for the weak, and He’s available for the tempted and the tried. He sympathizes and He sees. He guards and He guides. He heals the sick. He cleansed the leper. He forgives the sinners. He

discharges debtors. He delivers the captives. He defends the people. He blesses the young. He regard the aged. He rewards the diligent. He

beautifies the meek. I’m trying to tell you, Church… you can trust Him.

He’s the key to knowledge. He’s the wellspring of wisdom. He’s the doorway of deliverance. He’s the path of peace. He’s the roadway of righteousness. The highway of holiness. He’s the gateway to glory….You can trust Him.

He’s the master of the mighty. He’s the capture of conquerors. He’s the head of heroes. He’s the leader of legislators. He’s the overseer of the

overcomers. He’s the Governor of the governors. He’s the Prince of princes. He’s the King of kings. He’s the Lord of lords…. You can trust

Him.

His office is manifold. His promise is sure. His life is matchless. His goodness is limitless. His mercy is everlasting. His love never changes. His word is enough. His grace is sufficient. His reign is righteous. His yoke is easy. His burden is light. I wish I could describe Him to you. He’s indescribable because He’s incomprehensible. He’s irresistible because he’s invincible. You can’t get him off your hand. You can’t get Him off your mind. You can’t outlive Him, and you can’t live without Him. Pilate couldn’t stand it when he found out that he couldn’t stop Him. Pilate couldn’t find any fault in Him and the witnesses couldn’t get their testimonies to agree and Herod couldn’t kill Him. There was nobody before Him. They’ll be nobody after Him. He has no predecessor. He’ll have no successor. You can’t impeach Him and He’s not going to resign…. You can trust Him. He’s the Alpha and the Omega. The beginning and the end. The first and the last. He’s all things. He’s the giver of life. He’s the joy out of every sorrow. He’s the light of every darkness. He’s the peace that passes all understanding. He’s the giver of every good and perfect gift…you can trust Him.

There’s no God before Him. They’ll be no one after Him. He is the first. He is the last. He is preeminent. There is no other God” … You can trust Him, Church. YOU CAN TRUST HIM!”

~~ S.M. Lockeridge, Detroit, 1976

Why Is Praising God Important?

We are told to praise God 7 times a day in Psalm 119:164.

“The Book of Psalms is the praise book of the Bible and it gives us hundreds of reasons why praise is important, as well as examples of how

to give praise to God. In examining those reasons and examples, one thing becomes clear. “It is good to praise the Lord and make music to your

name, O Most High…” Psalm 92;1. Praise is a good thing. That means it is pleasant, valuable and morally excellent. Psalm 147:1 tells us that

praise is beautiful and agreeable.

When we consider the reasons why we should praise God, we find a list of His attributes, He is full of glory; Psalm 138:5 and great; Psalm 145:3, wise and powerful; Daniel 2:20, good; Psalm 107:8; merciful and faithful –Psalm 89:1; and much more.

This list of attributes is complemented by a list of His wonderful works. He is the One who save us - Psalm 18:46; keeps His promises - I Kings 8:56;

pardons sin - Psalm 103:1-3; and gives us our daily food.

Psalm 136:25. To try to list all the things God has done is impossible, but it is a wonderful exercise because it turns our heart back to Him and keeps

us mindful of how much we owe to Him.

Psalm 148:1-10 tells us that all creation is commanded to give praise to God. When Jesus was entering Jerusalem on Palm Sunday, great crowds gathered and offered Him their praises. The Pharisees wanted Him to rebuke the people, but Jesus answered, “I tell you that, if these should hold their peace, the stones would immediately cry out” – Luke19:40. The thought here is that there are many people who choose not to praise God right now, there is coming a day in which every knee will bow and every tongue will confess the praises of God – Phil. 2:10,11. Some will joyfully give those praises because of the salvation they have received while some will give those praises as conquered enemies headed for eternal punishment for their rejection of God.

Praise is a vital part of a life surrendered to God, and it gives credit where credit is due. “O that men would praise the Lord for His goodness and for His wonderful works to the children of men?” Psalm 107:8. ~~

GotQuestions.com

WHAT DOES IT MEAN THAT GOD INHABITS THE PRAISE OF HIS PEOPLE? Psalm 22:3

“Psalm 22 is a prophetic psalm of David presenting Jesus Christ as the Savor who laid down His life. The psalm begins by portraying the rejection and abandonment Christ suffered on the cross – Psalm 22:1,2; Matt. 27:46; Mark 15:34. Yet, immediately, the suffering Messiah makes a strong declaration of trust in God, “But thou are holy, O thou that inhabitest the praises of Israel”: - Psalm 22:3.

As the bearer of humanity’s sins, Christ was destined to experience untold pain and anguish. Isaiah 53:4-6, 10; II Cor. 5:21 In the seemingly

endless silence in which God does not answer – perhaps the worst moment of torment Christ would ever know, the Son reminds Himself of God’s sovereign position: “Yet you are holy, enthroned on the praise of Israel” – Psalm 22:3. The word ‘enthroned’ here describes the circumstance of sitting, remaining or dwelling somewhere. The phrasing ‘God inhabits the praise of His people’ comes from the King James Version of Psalm 22:3.

When the Messiah declared, “God inhabits the praise of His people” in Psalm 22:3, He expressed His absolute trust in God. No matter what was happening at that moment or how alone He felt, the Messiah knew that God was present and in control, ruling over His hour of greatest need – Peter 2:23. God the Father had not abandoned Him. God was working out His sovereign plan and the Messiah would soon be delivered – Psalm 22:4,5.

Many examples of God’s enthronement exist in Scripture. The psalmist urged, “Sing praises to the Lord, who sits enthroned in Zion! Tell among the peoples his deeds!” – Psalm 9:11. “Who is like the Lord our God, the One who sits enthroned on High” – Psalm 113:5. When Isaiah saw the Lord “high and exalted, seated on a throne” over all creation in heaven and earth “and the train of his robe filled the temple” – Isaiah 6:1-6, the prophet was utterly undone by God’s presence.

The idea behind God inhabiting the praise of His people could be that God’s throne – His dwelling place = was the tabernacle, the place where praise was continually offered to Him. In Psalm 22, the Messiah in His suffering remembers the place and people of praise. He is not among those congregants but He expresses with confidence that their praise are appropriate. Even I the extremity of His distress, the Messiah trusts that God is holy and worth of praise.

Heaven is a place where God is surrounded by praise, and it is described in the Bible as God’s Temple – Psalm 11:4; Hab. 2:20. Yet the ultimate dwelling place for God is with His people. “Look! God’s dwelling place is now among the people and He will dwell with them. They will be His people and God himself will be with them and be their God.” Rev. 21:3; 22. Jesus Christ revealed that He is the Lord’s temple- John 2:29-21. And God’s presence inhabits His body – the church – I Cor. 3:16,17.

The write of Hebrews counsels, “through Jesus, therefore, let us continually offer to God a sacrifice of praise – the fruit of lips that openly profess his name”. Heb. 13:15. The apostle Peter explains, “but you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, god’s special possession, that you may declare the praise of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light”. I Peter 2:9

God still inhabits the praise of His people. No matter what our circumstances, we know that God is holy and does all things right. We can

worship the Lord even in our distress.” ~~ GotQuestions.com

WAITING ON THE LORD ~~ Daily Living

Patience - def. hopeful, perseverance, endurance, continuous, waiting, to

abide, under

WAIT! WAIT! WAIT!

Waiting is a tough assignment. Patience is a virtue that goes unappreciated in a fast-food, fast-car, fast-living generation. Ever find

yourself standing in front of the microwave oven saying, ‘hurry up’? Or pushing the elevator call button ever five seconds while waiting for the elevator to arrive?

We will not survive spiritually if we do not learn to wait.

“I wait for the Lord, my soul waits,

And in His word I do hope

My soul waits for the Lord

More than those who watch for the morning

I say, more than those who watch for the morning.” Psa. 130:5

We should wait on the Lord with patience . When we do not know what to do about something, we should wait. Sometimes we get all caught upon just doing something that we neglect to hold still, listen and know that He is God – Ps. 46:10. When the pieces of our lives are not fitting together the way we want, we get busy and start trying to force things to work, as Abraham and Sarah did. If we but take the time to pursue God’s direction and wait for His response, we will get much better results. “But those who wait on the Lord shall renew their strength - Is.40:31."

We should wait on the Lord in prayer. This prayer is a prayer for God to listen. “Out of the depths I have cried to you, O Lord; Lord, hear my

voice!" Ps. 130:1,2. The psalmist is consumed with despair, asking God to listen to his requests. The first step in getting answers to our prayers is to pray. Prayerlessness is sin. “Moreover, as for me, far be it from me that I should sin against the Lord in ceasing to pray for you; but I will teach you the good and the right way. Only fear the Lord, and serve Him in truth with all your heart; for consider what great things He has done for you.” I Sam. 12:23, 24. When we face trials, prayer should be the first place we head.

Twice the psalmist says that this soul waits for God’s response (v. 5, 6). Consider also the repeated phrase, “more than those who watch for the morning” (v. 6. The psalmist is so eager for the Lord’s presence that he says it twice for emphasis.

We should wait on the Lord on purpose and make God the focus of our lives. Divorce, addiction, emotional disorders and criminal records are evidence of lives torn apart because someone decided on purpose to follow some voice other than God’s.

David wrote, “My soul, wait silently for God alone, for my expectation is from Him. He only is my rock and my salvation; He is my defense; I shall not be moved” Ps. 62:5, 6

Wait on the Lord with patience, in prayer, and on purpose. He will answer. Patience is not just the ability to wait; it is the ability to keep a good attitude while waiting! James 5:7 does not say to be patient ‘if’ you wait; it says to be patient ‘as you wait’. Waiting is part of life. Many people do not “wait well “and yet we actually spend more time in our lives waiting than we do receiving. Ask God to help you wait well!

WHY DOES GOD USE EAGLES AS AN EXAMPLE OF HOW TO WAIT

“But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall

mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run and not be weary; and they

shall walk and not faint.” Isaiah 40:31

‘wait upon’ - to expect, to tarry, to be patient

‘renew’ - to expect, to gather together

‘strength’ - power, might, ability, fruit

Used in Isaiah 41:1 in regards to Israel.

‘mount up’ - to rise up as eagles, to exalt, to exceed, to increase, to restore, to

stir up

‘wings’ - too build

‘run’ - eager, to rush, to stretch out

‘weary’ - to faint, to be exhausted

The words ‘strength’ and ‘weary’ used also in Isaiah 40:29 and 30

‘walk’ - cause one way to turn; to prosper

‘faint’ - wearisome

The word ‘wait;’ is used 3 times in Psalm 37:7, 9, 34.

God uses the word ‘eagle’ 30 times in His Word; 3 examples:

Proverbs 23:5
Jeremiah 48:40
Psalm 103:5

Why does God use eagles to teach us about His principles or how to live as His

Temple?”

Ten facts about eagles:

1. Eagles mate for life

2. Eagles can fly as high as 10,000 feet

3. Eagles have keen eyesight, stronger than humans

4. Eagles fly into a storm, not away from it

5. Eagles perform courtship acrobatics for their mates

6. Eagles always return to the same nest every year

7. The male eagle helps the mother eagle in caring for the home:

a. Building the nest

b. Sitting on the eggs

c. Providing food

8. The wings of an eagle are stronger per pound than the wings of a modern

day airplane

9. An eagle can fly for 4 to 6 hours at 20 – 30 miles per hour, without stopping. They do this by taking advantage of the air currents.

10. When it’s time for the young eagles to leave the next, the parents put the young on their wings and fly with them on their wings. Then while flying,

they will flip them off. One of two things then happens:

If they eaglet can fly, the parents let them go
If the eaglet cannot fly by themselves, the parents catch them and try again at a later time.

APPLICATION: Take time to look at each of the 10 facts about the eagle and apply to your life. For me, this has been both an encouragement and a learning curve.

Psalm 37:8-14

8. Cease from anger and forsake wrath. Fret not thyself in any wise to do evil.

9. For evil doers shall be cut off; but those that wait upon the Lord, they shall inherit the earth.

10. For yet a little while and the wicked shall not be; yea, thou shalt diligently consider his place and it shall not be.

11. But the meek shall inherit the earth; and shall delight themselves in the abundance of peace.

12. The wicked plotteth against the just, and gnasheth upon him with his teeth.

13. The Lord shall laugh at him; for he seeth that his day is coming.

14. The wicked have drawn out the sword and have bent their bow, to cast down the poor and needy and to slay such as be of upright conversation.

~~ Enduring Word

Cease from anger and forsake wrath; do not fret – it only causes harm. David wisely advised the man or woman of God to give up anger, wrath and worry (fret). They accomplish nothing except harm. They are the opposite of delighting oneself in the Lord and patiently waiting upon Him.

Cease from anger, ‘especially against the arrangements of Providence, and jealousies of the temporary pleasure of those who are so soon to be banished from all comfort. Anger anywhere is madness, here it is aggravated insanity”. ~~ Spurgeon.

“For yet a little while and the wicked shall be no more” the evildoers have their day of prosperity, but it is short-lived. Soon the wicked who are the famous and praised in this world will be of no notice or standing at all you will look carefully for his place, but it shall be no more).

Rest in the Lord speaks of a particular kind of rest – the rest of silence, ceasing from words of self-defense. The idea is that we will not speak to vindicate ourselves; we will trust in God to protect us.

1. The ‘meek’ are they who bear their own adversities and the prosperity of their enemies, without envy, anger or complaint” ~~ Horne

2. The context gives the best possible definition of the meek; they are those who choose the way of patient faith instead of self-assertion.” ~~ Kidner

3. The meek shall inherit the earth: Jesus quoted this line in the Sermon on the Mount in the third beatitude – Matt. 5:5). “It is right to say that Psalm 37 is an exposition for the third beatitude even though it was written a thousand years before Jesus began his public ministry it unfolds the character of the meek or trusting person in the face of the apparent prosperity of the wicked”. ~~ Boice

4. “Do not murmur or repine at his dealings, but silently and quietly submit to his will and adore his judgements and as follows, wait for

his help.” ~~ Poole

5. If the spotless Lamb of God was silent, before those who were divesting him of his honours, are robbing him of his life, ‘silent’

resignation cannot but become one who suffers for his sins.” ~~

Home

“Blessed are the meek (humble) for they shall inherit the earth”. Matt. 5:5. The meek shall delight (exquisite delight in an attractive, careful way) used in Isaiah 58:13,14 and used in v. 4 in honoring the Sabbath. ‘abundance’ – def. much, great 'peace’ – def. shalom, health, well, happy prosperity, favour – used in v. 37

There is no darkness in the Lord but He gives us the choice. This is our decision by faith. There are over1600 ‘ifs’ in the Bible. God gave us free will. Three examples:

If we repent of sin - I John 1:5-10
If we live in faith Heb. 11:6
If we forgive others so He can forgive us Matt. 6:14,15

Psalm 37:15-21

15. Their sword shall enter into their own heart and their bows shall be broken.

16. A little that a righteous man hath is better than the riches of many wicked.

17. for the arms of the wicked shall be broken; but the Lord upholdeth the righteous.

18. The Lord knoweth the days of the upright and their inheritance shall be forever.

19. They shall not be ashamed in the evil time; and in the days of famine they shall be satisfied.

20. But the wicked shall perish and the enemies of the Lord shall be as the fat of lambs; they shall consume into smoke shall they consume away.

21. The wicked borroweth, and payeth not again; but the righteous showeth mercy and giveth. The generosity of the righteous will be

blessed by God. Ps. 112.

A little that a righteous man has is better than the riches of many wicked. Since whatever the wicked has cannot last, the little that the righteous man has is better than all that the wicked possess. A God-trusting, righteous life is the best long-term investment strategy.

“His blessing can multiply a mite into a talent, but his curse will shrink a talent to a mite”. ~~ Horne
“A little blest is better than a great deal curst; a little blest is better than a world enjoyed; a pound blest is better than a thousand curst; a black crust blest is better than a feast curst; the gleanings blest are better than the whole harvest curst; a drop of mercy blest is better than a sea of mercy curst”. ~~ Brooks, cited in Spurgeon.

We must remember the God equipped us with His armour- Eph. 6:10-20. Our sword is the sword of the Rhema Word of God. Our sword is the sword of the Spirit – Eph. 6:17 and it is our only offensive weapon as the other are all defensive weapons. God’s Word is inspired – II Tim. 3:16,17.

For the Lord knows the days of the upright. “He is acquainted with all his circumstances, severings, and ability to bear them; and he will either shorten his trials or increase His power” ~~ Clarke

In the days of famine, they shall be satisfied. God can even find a way to provide for His own when others have nothing.

When we hear the word ‘famine’, most of us think of starvation. Famine is one of the seven signs of End Times that Jesus mentioned in Matt. 24:1-4. The U.N. points to a massive food shortage coin and we see it in Gaza. However, Amos refers to another type of famine in the End Times, a “famine of the Word of God”, a phrase that we want to understand.

Amos 8:11 is part of God’s description of judgment upon the nation of Israel.

“Behold, days are coming,” declares the Lord God, "when I send a famine on the land, not a famine for bread or a thirst for water, but rather for hearing the words of the Lord.”

Many pastors and teachers are increasingly like the priests described in Hosea 4:6 who were teaching, but they were not teaching the knowledge of the Lord:

“My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge. Because you have

rejected knowledge, I also will reject you from being my priest. Since you

have forgotten the law of your God, I also will forget your children.”

Notice the verse says that the priests had rejected knowledge and had forgotten the law of God. The priests themselves were not interested in studying the Law. As a result, they did not teach the Scripture and the people were “destroyed for lack of knowledge”. It was a sign of pending judgment. The same is true for us today. Judgment is coming.

The message of Amos 8:11 is a warning! Today we do not have prophets or apostles since Jude 3 tells us that the faith “was once for all handed down to the saints”. The faith was given through the prophets and the apostles in written form. We call it the Word of God or the Bible. Since the faith was “once for all delivered” we are not expecting anting additional to be added to the Bible – nor should we. The last apostle wrote the last book of the Bible. The Bible is complete!

How does Amos 8:11 apply to us today? The answer is that the Bible is not being taught in depth as it should be. Many sermons are filled with stories, personal illustrations and humor. It is rare that details of a verse are explained so that believers understand all the verse says. Often pastors are more interested in application than explaining the meaning of what God said. During a sermon, the passage is often just summarized.

Without the Word of God, people will wander.

Who Are the Seed of Abraham?

“The question “who are the seed of Abraham” can be answered several ways and it is important to make some distinctions. There is the Seed of Abraham (seed being singular); there is the seed of Abraham physically (descendants of Abraham according to the flesh) and there is the seed of Abraham spiritually(those who, like Abraham, have faith in God). The (singular) Seed of Abraham is Christ, as Gal. 3:16 quoting Gen. 12:7 says, “the promises were spoken to Abraham and to his seed. Scripture does not say ‘and to seeds’, meaning many people but ‘and to your seed’, meaning one person, who is Christ”. The passage goes on to explain that an inheritance was promised to Abraham’s Seed (Christ) apart from the Law. In this way, Abraham is the “father” of all who believe (Rom. 4:11-17). “If you belong to Christ, then you are Abraham’s seed, and heirs according to the promise”. Gal. 3:29

Of course, the seed of Abraham can also refer to the Hebrew people who descended from Abraham through Isaac. Still more broadly, the seed of Abraham could include Arabs, who trace their lineage through Ishmael. This is the physical seed of Abraham. The spiritual seed of Abraham (believers in Jesus Christ) is comprised of people of all nationalities and ethnicities.

The Jewish religious leaders of the first century took pride in that they were Abraham’s seed. They saw their physical connection to Abraham as a guarantee of God’s favor. This attitude kept them from seeing their need for repentance of the heart – and brought condemnation from John the Baptist, who warned them to repent. Anticipating their fallback argument that they were the seed of Abraham, John said, “do not think you can say to yourselves, ‘we have Abraham as our father’; I tell you that out of these stones God can raises up children for Abraham”. Matt. 3:9

Jesus dealt with the same issue later. In speaking to the believing Jews, Jesus emphasized their need to receive His words as truth and obey His commands. They replied, “we be Abraham’s seed” John 8:33. Jesus then rebukes them for plotting sways to murder Him, their stubborn response was again, “Abraham is our father”, v. 39a. at this, Jesus makes a distinction between the physical seed of Abraham and the true, spiritual seed of Abraham, “if you were Abraham’s children,…then you would do what Abraham did’, v. 39b. The conversation heats up as the Jews for a third time reference their connection to Abraham, ‘are you greater than our father Abraham?’ they ask Jesus, v. 53. Jesus provokes them further, ‘your father Abraham rejoiced at the thought of seeing my day; he saw it and was glad’. V. 56. The Jews are incredulous that Jesus would claim to be a contemporary of Abraham and that’s when Jesus brings the exchange to a climax with a claim to full deity, ‘very truly I tell you, before Abraham was born, I am!’ v. 58. In a fury, the Jews attempted to stone Jesus, v. 59,

again proving that being the physical seed of Abraham is not enough – they had to be born again, John 3:3. ~~ GotQuestions.com

Galatians 3:28,29 – we are all one in Jesus Christ.

Psalm 37:22-28

I have not seen the righteous forsaken, nor his descendants begging bread. David gave a testimony from his own experience. He noted that God cared for those who trusted in Him and walked in His righteousness. They were not forsaken and their descendants were also blessed.

22. For such as be blessed of him shall inherit the earth; and they that be cursed of him shall be cut off.

23. The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord; and he delighteth in his way.

24. Though he fall, he shall not be utterly cast down; for the Lord upholdeth him with his hand.

25. I have been young, and now am old. Yet have I not seen the righteous forsaken, nor his seed begging bread.

26. He is ever merciful and lendeth; and his seed is blessed.

27. Depart from evil and do good; and dwell for evermore.

28. for the Lord loveth judgment and forsaketh not his saints; they are preserved forever; but the seed of the wicked shall be but off.

This was David’s testimony after many years (I have been young and now am old.) Seeing God’s faithfulness to His people, David wanted a younger generation to also trust in Him, learning from his wisdom.

v. 23 ‘ordered’ – to appoint, to confirm, to direct, preparation, to ordain.

‘delighteth’ – to be pleased with favor.

v. 26 “God is not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance”. II Peter 3:9

37:25 The psalmist merely stated his own experience as he personally had never seen “the righteous forsaken nor his seed begging bread." It does not say that it never occurs. God takes care of His people. There is enough wealth in the world to provide food, clothing and shelter for all. However, some do get more than their share and others suffer. If a good man is wasteful, acts unwisely or speculates unduly then God will not intervene to keep him from ruin. We must learn the general lesson well.

David knew he was the seed of Abraham and so are believers today.

‘seed’ – offspring. ‘Seed’ is used in the planting of fruit and also used of a woman getting pregnant. Num. 5:28

“For you are all sons of God through faith in Christ Jesus. For as many of you as were baptized into Christ have put on Christ. There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is neither male nor female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus. And if you are Christ’s , then you are Abraham’s seed and heirs according to the promise - Gal. 3:26-29."

The story of Ruth and Boaz is a love story – Ruth was a Gentile and Boaz a Jew.

What is the blessing of Abraham?

First, we’ll take a look at the historical context of Abram’s blessing. God’s blessing to Abraham is recorded in Gen. 12:1-3: “the Lord had said to

Abram,

‘Go from your country, your people and your father’s household to the land

I will show you. I will make you into a great nation, and I will bless you; I

will make your name great, and you will be a blessing. I will bless those

who bless you, and whoever curses you I will curse; and all peoples on

earth will be blessed through you.”

If these verses were obeyed, the Middle East crisis would be solved.

Here, Abraham is blessed, and that blessing includes the promise that he will have a great name (reputation) and that he would become a great nation (have many descendants). God will bless those who bless him; furthermore, Abraham will be a blessing. Through Abraham all nations on earth will be blessed. The blessing of Abraham find its ultimate fulfillment in Jesus Christ, the Seed of Abraham and Redeemer of the world. Gal. 3:16; 28-29

‘wait’ – be patient, to expect, to tarry

Psalm 37:29-34

29. The righteous shall inherit the land, and dwell therein forever.

30 The mouth of the righteous speaketh wisdom and his tongue talked of judgment.

31. The law of his God is in his heart; none of his steps shall slide.

32. The wicked watcheth the righteous and seeketh to slay him.

33. The Lord will not leave him in his hand, nor condemn him when he is judged.

34. Wait on the Lord and keep his way, and he shall exalt thee to inherit the land; when the wicked are cut off, thou shalt see it.

“Wait in obedience as a servant, in hope as an heir, in expectation as a believer. While we are waiting, let us take heed of wavering.” ~~

Spurgeon

Psalm 119:9-16

9. Wherewithal shall a young man cleanse his way? By taking heed thereto according to thy word.

10. With my whole heart have I sought thee; O let me not wander from thy commands.

11. Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee. This verse was given to me with a gift of my first Bible from my parents at 8

years of age.

12. Blessed art thou, O Lord; teach me thy statues.

13. With my lips have I declared all the judgments of thy mouth,

14. I have rejoiced in the way of thy testimonies, as much as in all riches.

15. I will meditate in thy precepts, and I have respect unto they ways,

16. I will delight myself in thy states; I will not forget thy word.

A person can only grow spiritually if they are in the Word of God.

What Does it Mean that Jesus is the Son of David?

“Primarily, the title “Son of David” is more than a statement of physical genealogy. It is a Messianic title. When people referred to Jesus as the Son of David, they meant that He was the long-awaited Deliverer, the fulfillment of the Old Testament prophecies.

Jesus was addressed, “Lord, thou son of David” several times by people who, by faith, were seeking mercy or healing. The woman whose daughter was being tormented by a demon (Matt. 15:22) and the two blind men by the wayside (Matt.20:30) all cried out to the Son of David for help. The titles of honor they gave Him declared their faith in Him. Calling Him “Lord” expressed their sense of His deity, dominion and power and calling Him “Son of David” expressed their faith that He was the Messiah.

The Pharisees understood exactly what the people meant when they called Jesus “Son of David. But, unlike those who cried out in faith, the Pharisees were so blinded by their own pride that they couldn’t see what the blind beggars could see – that here was the Messiah they had supposedly been waiting for all their lives. They hated Jesus because He wouldn’t give them the honor they thought they deserved, so when they heard the people hailing Jesus as the Savior, they became enraged (Matt.21:15) and plotted to destroy Him (Luke 19:47,48).

Jesus’ point in asking the question of Mark 12:35-37 was that the Messiah is more than the physical son of David. If He is David’s Lord, He must be greater than David. As Jesus says in Rev. 22:16, “I am the Root and the Offspring of David.” That is, He is both the Creator of David and the Descendant of David. Only the Son of God made flesh could say that.” ~~

GotQuestions.com

Psalm 37:35-40

35. I have seen the wicked in great power and spreading himself like a green bay tree.

36. Yet he passed away and lo, he was not; yea, I sought him, but he could not be found.

37. Mark the perfect man and behold the upright; for the end of that man is peace.

38. But the transgressors shall be destroyed together: the end of the wicked shall be cut off.

39. But the salvation of the righteous is of the Lord: he is their strength in the time of trouble.

40. And the Lord shall help them, and deliver them; he shall deliver them from the wicked, and save them, because they trust in him.

The salvation of the righteous is from the Lord. This is a helpful thought at the end of this psalm. In David’s praise and encouragement of righteous men or women, it is possible that one might think those ones are saved by their own righteousness. David reminds us that their salvation is from the Lord and that He is their strength in time of trouble.

“While trouble overthrows the wicked, it only drives the righteous to their

strong Helper, who rejoices to uphold them.” ~~Spurgeon

The Time of Christ’s Coming Unknown Matthew 24:36-38

Are you ready for the coming of Jesus Christ?

36. But of that day and hour knoweth no man, no, not the angels of

heaven, but my Father only.

37. But as the days of Noah were , so shall also the coming of the Son of

man be.

38. For as in the days that were before the flood they were eating and

drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, until the day that Noah entered

into the ark. The days of Noah were:

Anti-God
Sexual immorality
Violence (Hebrew word – hamas)

THE MYSTERIES OF THE NEW TESTAMENT

What is a mystery: Greek def. ‘musterion’ = imposed silence, secret. Only a New Testament word.

The mysteries of God can only be understood by believers through the power of the Holy Spirit; Col. 1:24-29.

1. Mysteries of the Kingdom of Heaven, Matt. 13:11

2. Mysteries of the Kingdom of God, Luke 8:10; Mark 4:15; I Cor. 4:5; Rev.

10:7; Mark 9:1

3. Mystery when Israel accepts Christ as Messiah, Romans 15:24-26

4. Mystery of salvation, Romans 16:25-27; Eph. 3:3,4,9; 6:19; Col. ?:26,27; 4:3

5. Mystery of wisdom of God, I Cor. 2:7

6. Mystery of the Second Coming of Jesus Christ, I Cor. 15:51

7. Mystery of the will of God, Eph. 1:9

8. Mystery of Christ and the Church, His Bride, in the context of marriage,

Eph. 5:32

9. Mystery of Christian fellowship in the context of knowing God and Christ,

Col. 2:2

10. Mystery of lawlessness in context of great apostasy in end times, II

Thess. 2:7

11. Mystery of faith, I Tim. 3:9

12. Mystery of godliness, I Tim. 3:16

13. Mystery of seven stars, Rev. 1:20

14. Mystery of Babylon, Rev. 17:5,7

Why is this so important? I Cor. 4:1,2

Eight mysteries refer to living today and six mysteries refer to the future.

“Christians today need to be informed about the various

Mysteries because ALL the deeper matters of Scripture

are predicted upon understanding them.” ~ John Malone

An important mystery is #6. Which is the mystery of the Coming of Jesus

Christ, in the twinkling of an eye. I Thess. 4:13-18; I Cor. 15:51,52.

The first mystery referred to is ‘the mystery of the Kingdom of Heaven. John the Baptist – Matt.3:1,2; Jesus Christ – Matt. 4:17

Jesus then after the announcement of the coming Church in Matt. 16:18,19

18. And I say also unto thee, that thou art Peter and upon this rock I will build my church and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.

19. And I will give unto thee the keys of the kingdom of Heaven and whatsoever thou shalt bind on earth shall be bound in Heaven; and

whatsoever thou shalt loose on earth shall be loosed in Heaven.

A more accurate translation of this verse (16:18,19) from the Greek is “And I will give thee the keys of the kingdom of the heavens. And whatever thou shalt bind on the earth shall be as having been bound in the heavens; and whatever thou shalt loose on the earth shall be as having been loosed in the heavens”. This is the first time the ekklesia, frequently translated ‘church’ is mentioned in the entire New Testament. A distinction must first be made between the Church referred to in v. 18, being the earthly side of God’s kingdom but not the only side. The kingdom of the heavens in v. 19, on the other hand, refers to both the Church on earth, the kingdom of God within the believers (Lk. 17:21) and also the kingdom of heaven as a far larger implication than the Church on earth.

The teaching here is that those things which are conclusively decided by the King in the Kingdom of heaven, having been so decided upon, are emulated by the Church on earth, the Church being the true believers whose testimony is the rock, even like Peter’s testimony concerning the deity of Jesus Christ upon whom the Church is build (I Cor. 3:11). No reference is made here to the binding or losing of persons, but of things. ‘Whatever’ and not ‘whoever’ in Matt. 18:18, ‘what things soever’. Reference is made to the acts of persons and not the decisions concerning persons by the church as an ecclesiastical or organizational body. The Church here is the body of believers themselves. We as believers can never make conclusive decision about things but can only confirm those decisions which have already been made by the King Himself as conclusive in the general context of His kingdom both on earth and in have. See. Matt. 18:18 where the same two verbs, ‘to bind’ and ‘to loose’ are said to be possessed by all the disciples. See also John 20:23. The two verbs ‘dedemenon’ and ‘lelumenon’ are both perfect passive participles which should have been translated respectively as “having been bound” and has “having been loosed” already in the heavens. Believers on earth can only confirm what has already taken place in Heaven.

SPIRITUAL AUTHORITY – The Essential Source of All Authority is God!

“but Jesus Christ has given us the keys (competent authority) to build His church”

KEYS AS FOUND IN THE WORD OF GOD

(Two times in the Old Testament)

meaning in Hebrew = “an opening instrument

1. In Judges 3:25, we find that Israel had turned their back on the Lord and God gave them the key to return and they obeyed.

2. In Isaiah 22:23, Isaiah prophesied that the key of David (Jesus Christ) and

He shall be a glorious throne in His Father’s house.

(six times in the New Testament;

Key, singular, used 4 times and keys, plural, 2 times)

Greek meaning: God’s competent spiritual authority

1. Luke 11:52; Jesus accused the scribes (lawyers) of not using the key of knowledge and this hindered others from entering the Kingdom of Heaven.

Jesus also accused the scribes of shutting up the Kingdom of Heaven. Matt. 23:13

2. Revelation 3:7-9; Jesus gave the key of David (Is. 22:22,23) to the Church at Philadelphia with the promise that if you open the door, no man can shut it.

When you are given the key of David, you also are the sons of Abraham as well; Matt 1:1. And the promises given to Abraham are given to us

because we are his seed; Gal. 3:25-29; By Faith….Because the church of Philadelphia obeyed the Lord and opened the door with the key of David, here is what followed:

Jesus knew their works; faith without works is dead; James 2:14-15
Jesus gave them an open door – open to God

"His Church”. Matthew 16:18, 19

Application of Psalm 37

1. Do not worry – put the Kingdom of God first – Matt. 6:24-34

2. Delight in the Lord

3. Commit your life to the Lord

4. Learn to wait upon the Lord

5. Learn, by faith, to rest in the Lord – Heb. 11:6

6. Learn to praise God

7. Daily repent of sin, as there is no darkness in the Lord; I

John 1:5-10

Above all, remember who you are in Jesus Christ and that you, like David, are the seed of Abraham, as is Jesus Christ, our precious Savior.

What a revelation!

HALLELUJAH – means ‘Praise the Lord’. As far as I know, the word “hallelujah’ is pronounced the same way in every language on the face of

the earth. Hallelujah!

Action Plan – Putting the Word of God to work

HOW SHALL WE THEN LIVE TODAY?

1. Repent of sin – daily. Barna’s research indicates that only 10% of Pastors today are preaching about repentance or sin. Psalm 66:18;

Proverbs 1:28,29

“Christianity is based upon repentance” ~~ R.C. Sproule

“Whatever happened to repentance?” ~~ David Wilkerson

“Repentance does not end with salvation”. ~~ Dr. Martyn Lloyd Jones

The very first word in the teaching of John the Baptist and Jesus Christ was REPENT. Matt. 3:2; 4:17; Acts 2:38

A change in man’s conduct could bring about a change in God’s judgment. God is free of sin but HIS mercy endures forever.

Def. ‘repented’ – sorry, mercy. Noah found grace. People were given 120

years to repent. We are given grace and faith; Rom. 12:3

God repented of His decision to destroy Nineveh; Jonah 3:10

‘Repented’ for God means ‘to change His mind’...

Question : Can the repentance of His people change the time of His return?

Answer : I do not know but I do know this, that “He is not willing that any should perish but that all should come to repentance.” II Peter 3:9

2. “Occupy” or ‘do business’ until He comes; Luke 19:13 Key point: keep on living and enjoy what god has given you.

3. “Watch and pray” Mark 13:32-37 KEY POINT: watch means to keep awake, spiritual alertness.

4. Put on the whole armor of God – Eph. 6:10-18. All of the armour of God is defensive except the Word of God is our only offensive weapon, which is

sharper than a two-edged sword. Hebrews 4:12

5. Deal aggressively with the enemy. Come against him in the all-powerful name of the Lord Jesus Christ and with the Word of God. James 4:7; Luke

10:19

6. Wait in silent expectancy for God to share His heart with you. As He does, in faith and obedience, pray for the burdens that God has shared.

John 10:27-30

7. Do not go on to the next subject until you have given God sufficient time to discharge all He wants to say to you regarding this particular burden. Very personal – wait – to bind together; to expect in faith; with eager anticipation, on the Lord. Ps. 27:14

8. When God ceases to bring things to your mind for prayer, finish by praising and thanking Him for what He has done. God inhabits or dwells in the praises of His people. Ps. 22:3; 23; 147:1

9. Remember that God is entrusting you with a sacred charge. He shares His secrets and burdens with those who can keep them. Here may be a time when He will definitely prompt us to share but unless this happens, we should remain silent. Luke 2:19; 9:35

10. “Give thanks to God”. I Cor. 15:57,58. Key point: Be steadfast, fixed, moral, settled, immoveable - firm in your Biblical worldview; abounding, better, exceed, excel, over and above, in the work of the Lord.

11. “Always be ready”. Matt. 24:44 Be prepared for the return of the Lord.

12. Live in faith and love. “Without faith it is impossible to please God; Heb. 11:6; I Cor. 13:13. Love – which is the greatest gift.

13. PRAY. II Chron. 7:13-15. Pray means:

a. To make supplication, to ask for. There are at least 12 preparation steps for prayer in order to God even to hear our prayer. Two of the

most important are repentance (I John 1:5-10 – 5 ‘ifs’ in that chapter) and forgiving others (Matt. 6:14,15)

b. Seek my face; seek me to search out, to worship or to request (Psalm 80;7,19)

c. Turn from your wicked ways. ‘Turn’ means return to the starting point or to relinquish. Solomon used the word ‘turn’ three times in

his prayer. II Chron. 6:26, 37, 42.

If we do these 3 things, here is God’s Promise to us:

I will hear you from Heaven; ‘hear’ means attention
I will forgive your sin as far as the East is from the West; Psalm 103:12
I will ‘heal’ our land, which means to mend like a physician, to repair thoroughly….. DIVINE INTERVENTION. The word ‘’heal’ is also used in Isaiah 53:4-6, which is physical healing, in the context of salvation.

14. II Chron. 7:13-15 are three of the most incredible verses in the Bible and is directed to us today. IF my people – our choice – will do four things: humble ourselves, pray, seek God’s face, and turn from our wicked ways (repent). God’s promise – HE will hear our prayer, will forgive our sins and heal (divine intervention) our land. Folks, it’s totally our choice. There are 1,637 ‘ifs’ in the Bible.

The only way not to experience the terrible seven year tribulation is to REPENT.

ACCEPT JESUS CHRIST as personal Savior and live for HIM today. John 3:15-18.

QUOTES ON THE VITAL IMPORTANT OF REPENTANCE SO THST WE CAN RECEIVE ALL THAT GOD HAS FOR US

1. Without repentance, there is no salvation”. ~~ Dr. Martyn-Lloyd Jones

2. “True repentance is turning form sin”. ~~ Billy Graham

3. “I do not pray for revival – I pray for repentance.” ~~ Nic Vujicic

4. The world needs revival and repentance. “For societies founded on Biblical traditions, pandemics need not make for the end. This is a

call for repentance and revival. Great struggles can produce great clarity. In the Old Testament, it would seem that men of Spiritual resources may not only redeem catastrophe but turn the moment into a great creative opportunity”. ~~ Wall Street Journal

IF The Biggest Word in the Bible ~~ Rex Rouls

The word ‘if’ is interesting. It is one of the most important words in the Bible because it speaks directly to our responsibility to God. Most promises in the Bible have conditions and the word ‘if’ speaks to those conditions. Our response to God’s commands affect our relationship with Him and determine our receiving from Him.

Jesus used the word ‘if’ all the time. Almost half of the 574 occurrences in the New Testament are in the four Gospels. Jesus always put the ‘if’ on man’s side and never on God’s side. The following are many uses of the word ‘if’ in the Bible.

God says, I WILL IF YOU WILL

The word ‘if’ appears 1,637 times in the Bible. The word ‘if’ even today means someone has to make a decision. An Old Testament example:

I Chronicles 7:13

IF I, GOD

Send no rain
Send locusts
Send pestilence

v. 14 – God then says, ‘here is what I will do for you IF you do 4 things,

because you are called by My name to obey':

Humble yourselves
Pray
Seek my face
Repent

v. 15 - Here is the promise of God – “I will heal” (divine intervention) your

land.

“IF you love me, you will keep My commandments.” John 14:15

“IF you abide (dwell) in My word (rhema), you may ask what you will and it

shall be done."

There is no darkness in God IF we do 5 things: I John 1:5-10 - read these verses daily.

Without repentance, God Almighty cannot hear our prayers. Proverbs 1:28,29; Psalm 66:18; Isaiah 59:2

There is no darkness in God when we repent of sin; I John 1:5-10

Barry Borthistle 04/2024

www.solomonsporchteaching.com bborthistle@shaw.ca

Why is a Knowledge of Biblical Prophecy So Important Today?

Tue, 09 Apr 2024 20:13:57 GMT

Why Is Biblical Prophecy So Important Today?

Is This the Calm before the Storm?

Barry Borthistle, Spiritual Entrepreneur – building a Biblical Worldview…

bborthistle@shaw.ca

A Biblical Worldview has a radical effect on a person’s life.

Biblical prophecy is approximately 1/3 of the Bible. Revelation 1:3 tells us that we are blessed (happy) if we do 3 things:

1) read it

2) hear it

3) obey it.

Studies show that 52% of people today are living in the spirit of fear.

Hamas attacking Israel on October 6, 2023 has haunting memories of the war of 1967. Both wars began on Yon Kippur, the most sacred day in the Jewish faith, also known as the Day of Atonement. For Israelis, Saturday’s surprised assault from Gaza was a recurring nightmare, coming 50 years and a day after invading forces from Egypt and Syria caught Israel off-guard, setting off a 19-day war that has long traumatized the nation.

Israeli television channels and newspapers have been filled in recent days with the commemorations of that war and many Israelis on Saturday saw parallels between the attack unfolding around them and the events decades earlier. That war also began on the Sabbath, with sirens wailing across the country on October 6, 1973 on Yom Kippur, the holiest day of the Jewish calendar.

On October 6, 2023 many Israelis had been planning to celebrate the holiday of Simchat Torah. Instead, the armed wing of Hamas, the Islamic group that controls Gaza, fired thousands of rockets toward Israel. Simultaneously, reports flooded in of a major breach of Israel’s fortifications along its border with Gaza, the Palestinian coastal enclave that Israel and neighboring Egypt have kept under blockade for 16 years, citing security reasons.

Unverified images soon began to emerge of heavily armed Palestinian militants entering Israeli border communities in pickup trucks, on motorcycles and in at least one case crossing the fenced border by paraglider. Gruesome unverified videos began to circulate, purporting to show the bloodied corpses of Israeli soldiers and of hostages taken into Gaza. Terrified Israeli residents in border villages phoned in to local television stations from safe rooms. Speaking in whispers, they pleaded for help and said they could hear the militants outside or even inside their homes.

Israel was prophesied to become a nation in one day (Isaiah 66:8). This was fulfilled on May 16, 1948. Since then, Israel has fought 8 wars and won all 8, AGAINST ALL ODDS. Westpoint Academy will not teach the strategies of any of these victories because there is no explanation. The explanation obviously is God.

1. Israel is about the size of the state of New Jersey with a population of about 9 million people.

2. God chose the boundaries of Israel. The UN did not choose the boundaries (Numbers 34).

3. Israel is mentioned over 2500 times and Jerusalem is mentioned over 800 times in the Bible.

4. It has been calculated that Abraham was born 1948 years after Adam. Israel became a nation in 1948, in one day, after 2000 years in exile. That day was May 16, 1948 (Isaiah 66:8).

5. “The Economist” ranked Israel as the 4 ^th most successful economy among developed countries for 2022.The IMF estimated Israel’s GOP at US$564 billion its GDP per capita at US$58.270 in 2023 (13 ^th highest in the world), a figure comparable to other highly developed countries.

Biblical Prophesies – End Times

There are many End Times signs in the Bible, 12 of which are included in this article. Some may be new to you. The Word of God is basically divided into 3 parts: past, doctrine, prophecy.

Please consider the coming woes that will happen. Jesus Christ Himself said events will happen and all are happening today:

1. “Take heed” (to be aware). Matthew 24:1-14

“Heed” is a present imperative, meaning a command to do something which involves continues or repeated action.

2. False prophets; Matthew 7:15-20

3. Apostasy – some shall wax cold. Many say that the church today is the Laodicean church; Rev. 3:14-22

4. Wars and rumors of wars. 32 wars happening today involving about 2 billion people. Rumors of wars: China – Taiwan; Iran – Israel

5. Famines – 20% of homes in the world today suffer food shortages; a million people are on the brink of starvation (Oxfam)

“We are facing the worst famine in 50 years”. World Vision

Global famine is now over 1 billion and is getting worse (W.H.O.)

6. Earthquakes – about 20,000 in 2022 or about 55 every day (National Earthquake Centre)

7. Pestilence, Pandemics, Plagues

What does the Bible Teach about Pestilence, Plagues and Global Pandemics?

By Joel C. Rosenberg, Founder and Chairman of The Joshua Fund

"While the term “pandemic” is a modern term and never used in the Scriptures, the Bible does use ancient Hebrew and Greek words for ‘pestilence’ and ‘plagues’ at least 127 times. While not every uses of the words, ‘pestilence’ and ‘plagues’ in the Bible refers to a terrible, infectious disease, many of the references do. Throughout the Bible, we see repeated examples of God using diseases to accomplish His divine and sovereign purposes. = There are also Biblical prophecies that warn us that God intends to use terrible, infectious disease to accomplish His divine and sovereign purposes in the future.

What are God’s sovereign purposes for using such terrible disease?

· Executing divine judgment on an individual, a nation, or many nations for chronic, unrepentant sin.

· Warning other individuals and nations that they, too, could face divine judgment for chronic, unrepentant sin.

· Shaking an individual, nation or many nations so that they will wake up from spiritual slumber or rebellion, repent or their sin and turn in faith to a holy, personal, biblical, healthy relationship with God.

Repeatedly in the Bible, God explains that in His mercy He will shake individuals and nations in a desire to get our attention and draw us to Him.

· In Amos 9:9, the Lord God says, “I will shake the house of Israel among all nations.”

· In Haggai 2:7, the Lord God says, “I will shake all the nations.”

· In Hebrews 12:26, we read, “And His voice shook the earth then, but now He has promised, saying, “yet once more I will hake not only the earth, but also the Heaven.”

The last two plagues will destroy our world as we know it today. The greatest, most powerful earthquake the world has ever seen and will destroy every mountain and every island with hailstones of 100 pounds or more; Rev. 16:17-21. This occurs at the end of the Tribulation Period, Jesus said in Matt. 24:6-8: After the seven signs, Jesus gave these words, “Do not be troubled, but these must come, as these are just the beginnings of sorrows (birth pains).”

Persecution

Jesus also tells us that in the End Times there will be persecutions; Matt. 24:9 Paul was writing from jail, telling us the same thing in II Timothy 3:11.

Open Doors 2023 World Watch List: What persecution Christians face (sobering content). Christian persecution has grown alarmingly.

· Globally, more than 360 million Christians suffer at least “high” levels of persecution and discrimination for their faith.

· In 1993, Christians faced high to extreme levels of persecution in 40 countries, this number has nearly doubled to 76 countries in 2023.

· In the top 50 alone, 312 million Christians now face very high or extreme levels of persecution.

· Worldwide, 1 in 7 Christians now experience at least ”high” levels of persecution or discrimination; with 1 in 5 in Africa, 2 out of 5 in Asia, and 1 in 15 in Latin America.

One of the most important chapters about End Times in the precious Word of God is II Timothy chapter 3.

v. 1-9 signs of the Last Days; Paul gives us 18 signs calling them perilous or stressful – miserable – evil shall come (to show itself) to all who are present – worldwide today.

v. 5 gives the reason there is a form of godliness but we are denying (refuse – to disavow – to reject the power (dunamis, meaning miraculous, miracle, wonderful work

The power is the Word for the Holy Spirit which Jesus Christ promised in His last words before He ascended to Heaven; Acts 1:7,8

According to Barna and others, about 58% of Christians do not believe that the Holy Spirit is God.

v. 10-17 how to live in End Times. Paul tells us how to live a Godly life. But we will suffer persecutions and how we need all of the Scriptures because they are given by inspiration of God.

“Thy Word have I hid in my heart that I might not sin against thee.” Ps. 119:11. This verse was given to me by my parents when they gave me my first Bible at the age of 8.

The vital importance of repentance ; I John 1:5-10. Please see my article on my webpage entitled, “What Happened to Repentance?”

Zechariah 14:16; “And it shall come to pass, that everyone that is left of all the nations which came against Jerusalem shall even go up from year to hear to worship the King, the Lord of hosts and to keep the Feast of Tabernacles."

v. 1 the day of the Lord begins at Armageddon

Hamas attacked Israel on October 6, 2023 killing a thousand or more and Israel calls this their 9/11. Percentage wise, if this occurred in the U.S., this would be approximately 35,000 killed.

v. 12-15 the people that come against Israel will have their flesh melt away (possible nuclear war)

In the Word of God, Egypt represents the sinful life. Egypt symbolizes the sinful powers of the world and ultimately fails.

v. 16-19 All the nations come to Jerusalem to worship the Lord. And it shall come to pass that everyone who is left of all the nations which came against Jerusalem shall go up from year to year to worship the King, the Lord of hosts, and to keep the Feast of Tabernacles. And it shall be that whichever of the families of the earth do not come up to Jerusalem to worship the King, the Lord.

a) Shall go up from year to year to worship the King; instead of coming to Jerusalem for battle, now the nations come to honor God and to remember His faithfulness to Israel in the wilderness by keeping the Feast of Tabernacles. Jesus told us to go to the end of the earth with the Gospel in the millennium he earth will come to Jerusalem to worship and honor God.

b) Whichever of the families of the earth do not come up to Jerusalem… on them there will be no rain. God won’t ‘make’ people worship Him during the millennium, but the advantages of worshipping and honoring God will be more evident than ever.

c) If the family of Egypt will not come up and enter in, they shall have no rain. Egypt is specifically mentioned because they were a nation not especially dependent on rain, yet they too would be punished if they were disobedient.

A Feast for All People

Tabernacles is unique, however, in that the nations also were invited in ancient times to come up to Jerusalem at this season to worship the Lord alongside the Jewish people. This tradition first arose from the command given to Moses that Israel should sacrifice seventy bulls at Sukkot, which were offered for the seventy nations descended from Noah; Numbers 29:12-35

When Solomon later dedicated his temple at Sukkot, he also called on the Lord to heart the prayers of all the foreigners hat would come there to pray (II Chronicles 6:32,33). Thus, Jerusalem and the Temple itself were destined from the start to be a “house of prayer for all nations.” (Isaiah 56:7; Matthew 21:13).

A second unique aspect of Sukkot is that it is a feast of joy. It is a fall harvest feast to be marked with great rejoicing in the ingathering of the fruit of the land. Israel also was called to instruct the nations in the laws of God and the people were to take joy in this task. Thus, Sukkot also serves as harbinger of the joyous last-days ingathering of the nations.

This is amazing:

For the last 35 – 40 years at the invitation of the International Christian Embassy in Jerusalem 90 countries accepted the invitation in March of 2023 and included:

1. Egypt

2. Iran

3. Indonesia

4. Fiji

5. North Korea

6. Turkey

7. Algeria

Jesus said that only Father God knows the exact time that He will return. “The days will be like the days of Noah”; Matthew 24:36-44. What were the days of Noah like? They included three major acts of rebellion:

· Anti-God

· Sexual immorality

· Violence – Hebrew word for ‘hamas’…. Sounds just like today!

God was sorry that He had created mankind because there was so much sin. But in His mercy, He gave mankind 120 years to repent; Gen. 5:18

No one knows for sure, but it is estimated that anywhere from 1 to 4 billion people lived during that period. The results were that only 8 people repented. We do not know the timing of His return and that is why prophecy is so important.

The Coming of Jesus Christ

Just like the flood in Noah’s day when only 8 people were prepared, Paul tells us that the coming of Jesus Christ is a mystery (secret) and it will be in a moment in the twinkling of an eye; I Cor. 15:51-58

Paul also tells us that the dead in Christ shall be caught up first and those alive on earth will follow; I Thessalonians 4:13-18

Here is the state of society when Jesus Christ returns for His bride, the Church:

“For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses,” Matthew 6:14,15.

Some religious people will be lost; Luke 13:25-27

“Not everyone 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.

Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name and in thy name have cast out devils and in thy name done many wonderful works?

And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you; depart from me, ye that work iniquity (Matt. 7 21-23.)”

Salvation requires entering; Luke 13:24

“Enter ye in at the strait gate; for wide is the age and broad is the way that leadeth to destruction and many there be which go in thereat;

Because strait is the gate and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it (Matt. 7:13,14).”

Question: Are you ready for the Second Coming of Jesus Christ?

The Place of China in the Last Days

China is not named in the Bible but appears to be by 1) location and 2) an army of 200 million men. They are the only one in the world.

“And the number of the army of the horsemen were two hundred thousand thousand; and I heard the number of them. And thus I saw the horses in the vision, and them that sat on them having breastplates of fire, and of jacinth, and brimstone. And the heads of the horses were as the heads of lions; and out of their mouth issued fire and smoke and brimstone. By these three was the third part of men killed, by the fire, and by the smoke, and by the brimstone, which issued out of their mouths.” . 9:16,18

“And the sixth angel poured out his vial upon the great river Euphrates; and the water thereof was dried up that the way of the kings of the east might be prepared (Rev. 16:12).”

The River Euphrates is drying up at a startling rate and could be completely dried up by 2040. (Iraq Ministry of Water Resources)

China is writing a new Bible calling Jesus Christ a sinner which includes a command to serve the Communist party. (CBN News)

We Are the Apple of God’s Eye

What Does it Mean to Be the Apple of God’s Eye?

The apple of one’s eye is a very sensitive place and therefore very protected. Think about your own eye for a moment. What happens if something flies in it or toward it? Your eyelids reflexively close, you head turns and your hands position themselves to ward off the threat. Our eyesight is valuable and our body naturally protects that vulnerable spot to prevent injury.

The prayer in Psalm 17:8 is for God to keep guard over us as He would the pupil of His own eye. And the description of God’s care for His people in Deuteronomy 32:10 emphasizes Israel’s vulnerability and God’s tender, loving affection. God provided complete protection; His people were a priority. In the “howling wilderness”, God provided manna for them to eat, water from a rock and safety form their enemies. His care was as automatic as if He were guarding the center of His eye form harm. What a loving God we serve.

There are only 2 things that are the apple of God’s eye:

· Israel – Deut. 32:10

· God’s Word – Prov. 7:2

The word ‘apple’ in Hebrew means ‘pupil’. “The pupil of the eye is what let’s the light come into your brain.” ~~ Cleveland Clinic

So, the instruction in Proverbs 7:2 is to hold godly wisdom in high regard as the valuable thing it is.

What should be our response?

1. We should bless Israel – Gen. 12:2,3. The result: promises to Abraham are ours today – Galatians 3:28, 29

2. Pray for the peace of Jerusalem – Ps. 122:6-8

3. The spiritual authority that the Lord gives to us for Him to heal our land is awesome. The word ‘heal’ means (like a physician or divine intervention).

“If I shut up heaven that there be no rain or if I command the locusts to devour the land, or if I send pestilence among my people;

If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves and pray, and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land.

Now mine eyes shall be open and mine ears attend unto the prayer that is made in this place.” II Chron. 7:13-15

The vital importance of a Biblical worldview especially in End Times. The Bible predicts the internet….

“And when they shall have finished their testimony, the beast that ascendeth to of the bottomless pit shall make war against them and shall overcome them and kill them.

And their dead bodies shall lie in the street of the great city which spiritually is called Sodom and Egypt, where also or Lord was crucified.

And they of the people and kindreds and tongues and nations shall see their dead bodies three days and a half, and shall not suffer their dead bodies to be put in graves:”. Rev. 11:7-9

Who are the two witnesses in the Book of Revelation?

In Revelation 11:3-12 is a description of two individuals who will help accomplish God’s work during the tribulation: “I will appoint my two witnesses, and they will prophesy for 1,260 days, clothed in sackcloth” (v.3). Nowhere does the Bible identify these two witnesses by name, although people through the years have speculated.

The two witnesses in Revelation will have miraculous powers to accompany their message (Rev. 11:6) and no one will be able to stop them in their work (v. 5). At the end of their ministry, when they have said all they need to say, the beast will kill them and the wicked world will rejoice, allowing the bodies of the fallen prophets to lie in the streets (v. 7-10). Three and a half days later, however, God’s two witnesses will resurrected and in full view of their enemies, ascend to Heaven. (v. 11-12)

The Bible does not name the two witnesses, but most people believe it is Elijah and Enoch, because they are the only two men that never died. Moses could possibly be one of them as well.

CONCLUSION:

Israel is mentioned over 2200 times and Jerusalem over 800 times in the Bible.

Could it be that the Lord is telling us that this is just the CALM BEFORE THE STORM? Could it be the fact that 90 nations accepted the invitation to participate in the Peace March for the Feast of Tabernacles in March of 2023, with many nations being anti-Jewish to perhaps mislead their intentions on October 6?

Zechariah chapters 11 to 14 tell us very clearly that all nations that come against Israel at The Battle of Armageddon will be defeated by the Lord. Zechariah 14:1-4 tells us that in this day those who have accepted Christ return to the earth for the 1000 year period, when the feet of Jesus touches the Mount of Olives, which will split in two and the 1000 year reign will begin with those who have believed in Jesus. WHAT A DAY THAT WILL BE.

Final Thought: The decision where you will spend Eternity is made while we are living on earth. Think about that.

Shalom

Barry Borthistle

A Biblical Worldview of the Word of GOD Will Change Your Life!

Wed, 03 Apr 2024 22:29:19 GMT

A Life-changing Worldview Episode

A Biblical Worldview of the Word of GOD (the Bible) will change your life

To see Barry's feature in Light Magazine, please CLICK HERE

In the Old Testament, ‘word’ is used almost 1,000 times. The Hebrew meaning – to speak, to declare, to command, to promise, to warn. The written Word of God. In the New Testament, the Greek word ‘logos’ is used 240 times. Defined as something said, subject or discourse, communication, a conception.

“In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.” John 1:1

“And the Word was made flesh and dwelt among us; and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth.” John 1:14

Logos is the written word of God. Rhema is the revealed, or spoken, word of God. Rhema, a command, is used approximately 60 times. The significance of rhema (as distinct from logos) is exemplified in the injunction to “take the sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God.” Eph. 6:17, Here the reference is not to the whole Bible as such, but to the individual scripture which the Spirit brings to our remembrance for use in time of need, a prerequisite being the regular storing of the mind with Scripture.

Take – is an imperative, meaning a command for doing something.

Sword – the only offensive armour with all other armour being defensive.

Spirit – pneuma, invisible, like the wind, but very powerful – divine God.

God’s Word, living and powerful

“For the word of God is quick and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrows, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. Neither is there any creature that is not manifest in his sight: but all thing are naked and opened unto the eyes of him with whom we have to do.” Hebrews 4:12,13

“For with God nothing will be impossible. Then Mary said, “Behold the maidservant of the Lord! Let it be to me according to your word’. And the angel departed from her.” Luke 1:37, 38

In this passage of scripture, the word ‘nothing’ and the word ‘rhema’ have the same meaning. For Mary to become pregnant without a man was impossible.

All Scripture is from God

“All Scripture is God breathed and is profitable for doctrine, for convincing, for correction, for discipline in righteousness, that the man of God should be lifted up, being made fully complete to all good work by God.” II Timothy 3:16, 17. Though written by men, all of Scripture is divinely inspired (literally, God-breathed), and it is our authority and rule for faith and life. What can you do to become a more serious student of God’s Word, the Bible, so that you can be complete and equipped for every good work? If we stay standing on the inside, God will take care of the outside. If we do what we can do, God will do what we cannot do.

“The Word of God was not given for our information rather for our transformation.” ~ D. L. Moody

Apostasy in the last days. II Timothy 3

1“this you must be now for yourself knowing, that in the Last Day violent special times will be present. 2For men shall be loving themselves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemous, disobedience to parents, unthankful, unholy. 3Without natural affection, unalterable, false accuser (slanderers) no self-control, fierce, despisers of God. 4Traitors, reactionary, are made self-directed pride, lovers of pleasure much more than lovers of God. 5Having a form of Godliness, but accepting no responsibility to His miracle power, so then also, from these stay away.” Lacking miracle power, lacking the Holy Spirit.

58 percent of Christians do not believe that the Holy Spirit is God. ~ Barna

Does it seem to you that we are living in perilous times? Look at the world around you, as you read II Timothy, chapter 3, you probably see evidence of many of the vices described in times such as these, you must stand strong in the truth of God’s Word and have nothing to do with people who seem religious but do not exhibit true godliness or spiritual power.

Just as Paul predicted long ago when he wrote to Timothy we live in an unthankful and ungrateful generation. It seems the more people have, the less they appreciate. As believers, we are in the world, but we must strive not to be like it. The more others around us complain, the more we should express gratitude to God.

The Bible is:

1/3 history – the past

1/3 doctrine – the present

1/3 prophecy – the future

The books of the Bible were written at different times by 40 different authors, all inspired by the Holy Spirit, over a period of approximately 1,500 years. The oldest book of the Bible, according to most scholars, is either Genesis or Job, both thought to have been written by Moses and completed around 1450 BC. The newest book, Revelation, was written around AD90. The books of the Bible were not being written continuously. For example, 400 years elapsed between the completion of the last book of the Old Testament, Malachi, and the beginning of the New Testament with Matthew. The ‘400 years of silence’ occurred because the Spirit of God did not inspire any Scripture during that time. Although Matthew’s gospel is placed first in the New Testament, it is believed that the first New Testament book written was actually the epistle of James, written around AD 44. The entire New Testament was written in about 50 years, from AD 44 to 90 or 95.

It is impossible to know how long it took each author to write his particular book. Scholars believe Moses wrote the first five books of the Old Testament between 1445 and 1405 BC. Paul’s letter to the New Testament churches, especially the shorter ones such as Philemon, may have been written in one sitting. The same can be said of II John and III John, which are very short letters written to specific individuals.

Each author wrote at the direction of the Holy Spirit who ‘breathed out’ Scripture to him. Peter explains this process: “prophecy never had its origin in the human will, but prophets, though human, spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit.” II Peter 1:21; II Timothy 3:16,17 All scripture is inspired (divinely breathed) by God.

Conclusion:

Example of Logos: The Deity of Christ “in the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God.” John 1:1

Example of Rhema: when a person receives Jesus Christ as Saviour, the Word of God becomes revealed and not just written. “But the Word of the Lord endures forever; now this is the Word which by the gospel was preached to you.” I Peter 1:25

The worst kind of famine

“Behold, the days come, saith the Lord God, that I will send a famine in the land, not a famine of bread, not a thirst for water, but of hearing the words of the Lord; and they shall wander from sea to sea, and from the north even to the east, they shall run to and fro to seek the word of the Lord and shall not find it.” Amos 8:11,12

There will be a falling away and many Christians will grow cold in the End times; Matt. 24:9-12; Jude 17-25

What does it mean to be the apple of God's Eye?

The apple of one’s eye is a very sensitive place and therefore very protected. Think about your own eye for a moment. What happens if something flies into or toward it? Your eyelids reflexively close, your head turns and your hands position themselves to ward off the threat. Our eyesight id valuable and our body naturally protects that vulnerable spot to prevent injury.

So the instruction in Proverbs 7:2 is to hold Godly wisdom in high regard as the valuable thing it is. The prayer in Psalm 17:8 is for God to keep guard over us as He would the pupil of His own eye. And the description of God’s care for His people in Deuteronomy 32:10 emphasizes Israel’s vulnerability and God’s tender, loving affection. God provided complete protection; His people were a priority. In the “howling wilderness:”, God provided manna for them to eat, water from a rock and safety from their enemies. His care was as automatic as if He were guarding the center of His eye from harm. What a loving God we serve!

There are only 3 things that are the apple of God’s eye:

· Israel – Deut. 32:10

· God’s Word - Proverbs 7:2

· David. David prayed for God to keep him as the apple of His eye; Psalm 17:8

Moses was involved in 42 miracles because he obeyed God as the apple of His eye.

The word ‘apple’ in Hebrew means ‘pupil’. The pupil of the eye is what let’s thy light come into your brain”. ~~ Cleveland Clinic

What should be our response?

1. We should bless Israel – Gen. 12:1-4 The result: the promises to Abraham are ours today – Galatians 3:28,2

2. We should pray for the peace of Jerusalem – Psa. 122:6-9

3. We should use the spiritual authority that the Lord gives to us for Him to heal our land, which is awesome. The word ‘heal’ means ‘like a physician or divine intervention’. II Chronicles 7:12-15 includes physical and spiritual healing. Isaiah 53:4-6

Conclusion

Remember, your body is the Temple of the Almighty God. I Cor. 3:16,17. What an awesome truth.

Since God used the Holy Spirit to inspire the entire Bible and because you are God’s Temple, the Holy Spirit lives within you and will inspire you. The Holy Spirit wants to do 33 Things for you and wants to pray for you. and get this! Romans 8:26-28

When Jesus announced the coming Church, He said three things:

· It is MY church

· I am going to build it

· The gates of hell will not stop it

Then He says, “ I am going to give you the keys to the mystery of Heaven, which is God’s government on earth ”. Keys in Greek means competent, spiritual authority.

Remember, this is the same Holy Spirit that inspired 40 human beings to write the Word of God. What a powerful thought.

To learn more about a Biblical Worldview click here

Shalom,

Barry Borthistle

A Biblical Worldview of The Word of God (the Bible) will Change Your Life

Wed, 03 Apr 2024 04:47:56 GMT

A Biblical Worldview of the Word of God (The Bible) Will Change Your Life

In the Old Testament, ‘word’ is used almost 1000 times. The Hebrew meaning – to speak, to declare, to command, to promise, to warn. The written Word of God. The word (debar) is very important in the Hebrew Old Testament. The word covers much thought and response.

In the New Testament, the Greek word ‘logas’ is used 240 times. Defined as something said, subject or discourse, communication, a conception.

“In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God”. John 1:1

“And the Word was made flesh and dwelt among us; and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth”. John 1:14

LOGAS is the written word of God. RHEMA is the revealed word of God. Rhema, a command, is used approximately 60 times. The significance of rhema (as distinct from logas) is exemplified in the injunction to take “the sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God”, Eph. 6:17, “and take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the {rhema} Word of God”. Here the reference is not to the whole Bible as such, but to the individual scripture which the Spirit brings to our remembrance for use in time of need, a prerequisite being the regular storing of the mind with Scripture. (Vines Dictionary)

“And take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word (rhema) of God”. Ephesians 6:17;

Ephesians 6:10-20

Take – is an purist imperative, meaning a command for doing something

Sword – detail the complete armour of God. The sword is the only offensive armour with all other armour being defensive.

Spirit – pneuma – invisible, like the wind, but very powerful – divine God. (Vines)

God’s Word, Living and Powerful

“For the word of God is quick and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrows, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.

Neither is there any creature that is not manifest in his sight: but all thing are naked and opened unto the eyes of him with whom we have to do.”. Hebrews 4:12,13

“For with God nothing will be impossible. Then Mary said, “Behold the maidservant of the Lord! Let it be to me according to your word’. And the angel departed from her”. Luke 1:37, 38

The Word ‘nothing’ in this verse and the word ‘rhema’ have the same meaning. For Mary to become pregnant without a man was impossible.

All Scripture is God Breathed. “All Scripture God breathed and is profitable for doctrine, for convincing, for correction, for discipline in righteousness, that the man of God should be lifted up, being made fully complete to all good work by God”. II Timothy 3:16, 17

Putting the Word to work. Though written by men, all of Scripture is divinely inspired (literally, God-breathed), and it is our authority and rule for faith and life. What can you do to become a more serious student of God’s Word, the Bible, so that you can be complete and equipped for every good work? If we stay standing on the inside, God will take care of the outside. If we do what we can do, God will do what we cannot do.

“The Word of God was not given for our information rather for our transformation.” ~~ D. L. Moody

Apostasy in the Last Days. II Timothy 3

1. “this you must be Now for yourself knowing, that in the Last Day violent Special Times will be present.

2. For men shall be loving themselves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemous, disobedience to parents, unthankful, unholy.

3. Without natural affection, unalterable, false accuser (slanderers) no self-control, fierce, despisers of God.

4. Traitors, reactionary, are made self directed pride, lovers of pleasure much more than lovers of God.

5. Having a form of Godliness, but accepting no responsibility to His Miracle Power, so then also, from these Stay Away.”

v. 5 lacking miracle power (word for the Holy Spirit) 58% of Christians do not believe that the Holy Spirit is God. ~~ Barna

Putting the Word to work. Does it seem to you that we are living in perilous times? Think of the world around you as you read II Timothy chapter3; you probably see evidence of many of the vices described in times such as these, you must stand strong in the truth of God’s Word and have nothing to do with people who seem religious but do not exhibit true godliness or spiritual power.

Life point: Just as Paul predicted long ago when he wrote II Timothy 3:1,2, we live in an unthankful and ungrateful generation. It seems the more people have, the less they appreciate. As believers, we are in the world, but we must strive not to be like it. The more others around us complain, the more we should express gratitude to God.

The Bible is:

1/3 history – the past

1/3 doctrine – the present

1/3 prophecy – the future

40 authors all inspired by the Holy Spirit; II Timothy 3:16,17. All were Jewish except for Dr. Luke. Jesus and the twelve disciples were all Jewish.

The books of the Bible were written at different times by different authors over a period of approximately 1,500 years. But that is not to say that it took 1,500 years to write the Bible, only that it took that long for the complete canon of Scripture to be penned as God progressively revealed His Word. The oldest book of the Bible, according to most scholars , is either Genesis or Job, both thought to have been written by Moses and completed around 1450 BC, about 3400 years ago. The newest book, Revelation, was written around AD90. The books of the Bible were not being written continuously For example 400 years elapsed between the completion of the last book of the Old Testament, Malachi, and the beginning of the New Testament with Matthew. The ‘400 years of silence’ occurred because the Spirit of God did not inspire any Scripture during that time. Although Matthew’s gospel is place first in the New Testament, it is believed that the first New Testament book written was actually the epistle of James, written approximately Ad 44 – 29. The entire New Testament was written in about 50 years, from AD 44 to 90 or 95.

It is impossible to know how long it took each author to write his particular book. Moses wrote the first five books of the Old Testament in about 40 years (1445 – 1405 B.C.) does that mean he was continually writing for 40 years? We just don’t’ know the answer. Paul’s letter to the New Testament churches, especially the shorter ones such as Philemon, may have been written in one sitting. The same can be said of II John and III John, which are very short letters written to specific individuals.

We do now know that each of the Bible’s authors wrote only as much and as long as they were led to do so. Each author wrote at the direction if the Holy Spirit who ‘breathed out’ Scripture to him. Peter explains this process: “prophecy never had its origin in the human will, but prophets, though human, spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit”. II Peter 1:21; II Timothy 3:16,17 All scripture is inspired (divinely breathed) by God.

Example of Logos – The Deity of Christ ‘in the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God.” John 1:1

Example of Rhema: when a person receives Jesus Christ as Savior, the Word of God becomes revealed and not just written. “But the Word of the Lord endures forever; now this is the Word which by the gospel was preached to you”. I Peter 1:25

Remember the Bible is the world’s bestselling book by far – between 5 and 6 billion copies ???

THE WORST KIND OF FAMINE IS COMING

“Behold, the days come, saith the Lord God, that I will send a famine in the land, not a famine of bread, not a thirst for water, but of hearing the words of the Lord; and they shall wander from sea to sea, and from the north even to the east, they shall run to and fro to seek the word of the Lord and shall not find it.” Amos 8:11,12

Amos 8:11-12 are sobering verses of Scripture for God to say to His people, “I’m going to send a famine that is worse than not having food, that is worse than not having water; not a famine of bread, nor a thirst for water, I’m going to send a famine of hearing the words of the Lord. People will run to and fro, from sea to sea, from North to East, seeking the word of the Lord, but they shall not fine it.

There will be a falling away and many Christians will grow cold in the End times; Matt. 24:9-12; Jude 17-25

WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO BE THE APPLE OF GOD’S EYE?

The apple of one’s eye is a very sensitive place and therefore very protected. Think about your own eye for a moment. What happens if something flies into or toward it? Your eyelids reflexively close, your head turns and your hands position themselves to ward off the threat. Our eyesight id valuable and our body naturally protects that vulnerable spot to prevent injury.

So the instruction in Proverbs 7:2 is to hold Godly wisdom in high regard as the valuable thing it is. The prayer in Psalm 17:8 is for God to keep guard over us as He would the pupil of His own eye. And the description of God’s care for His people in Deuteronomy 32:10 emphasizes Israel’s vulnerability and God’s tender, loving affection. God provided complete protection; His people were a priority. In the “howling wilderness:”, God provided manna for them to eat, water from a rock and safety from their enemies. His care was as automatic as if He were guarding the center of His eye from harm. What a loving God we serve!

There are only 3 things that are the apple of God’s eye:

· Israel – Deut. 32:10

· God’s Word - Proverbs 7:2

· David prayed for God to keep him as the apple of His eye; Psalm 17:8

Moses was involved in 42 miracles because he obeyed God as the apple of His eye.

The word ‘apple’ in Hebrew means ‘pupil’. The pupil of the eye is what let’s thy light come into your brain”. ~~ Cleveland Clinic

What should be our response:

1. We should bless Israel – Gen. 12:1-4 The result: the promises to Abraham are ours today – Galatians 3:28,29

2. We should pray for the peace of Jerusalem – Psa. 122:6-9

3. We should use the spiritual authority that the Lord gives to us for Him to heal our land, which is awesome. The word ‘heal’ means ‘like a physician or divine intervention’. II Chronicles 7:12-15 includes physical and spiritual healing. Isaiah 53:4-6

Conclusion:

Remember, your body is the Temple of the Almighty God. I Cor. 3:16,17. What an awesome truth.

Since God used the Holy Spirit to inspire the entire Bible and because you are God’s Temple, the Holy Spirit lives within you and will inspire you. The Holy Spirit wants to do 33 Things for you and wants to pray for you. and get this! Romans 8:26-28

When Jesus announced the coming Church, He said three things:

· It is MY church

· I am going to build it

· The gates of hell will not stop it

Then He says, “I am going to give you the keys to the mystery of Heaven, which is God’s government on earth”. Keys in Greek means competent, spiritual authority.

Remember, this is the same Holy Spirit that inspired 40 human beings to write the Word of God. What a powerful thought.

To learn more about a Biblical Worldview click here

Shalom,

Barry Borthistle

God's Blessings for America and Canada

Mon, 01 Apr 2024 18:34:49 GMT

God's Promises To Heal Our Land

Behaviour Follows Belief

Almighty God Has Promised to Heal our Land (by Divine Intervention/To Cure Like a Physician) if We Do It His Way.

God Bless United States of America!

God Bless Canada!

God Keep Our Land!

There is Hope...Please Read On

Did You Know?

The Bible tells us that God will heal (divine intervention) our land.

Remember, we are the Temple of the Living God............... Truly amazing.

"To recognize and receive the wondrous truth of being God's Temple is the

beginning of walking and living a supernatural life." ~Michael Ellison

We all know we live in a day of incredible change and uncertainty. I have good news. There is

an answer that will give us all hope.

The Wall Street Journal said it best:

WE LEARN FROM HISTORY THAT

EVERYTHING NEEDS A SOLID

FOUNDATION

Quote from the Wall Street Journal:

“Who will save us now that the monster COVID-19 has broken free? The pandemic

Has humbled the country and the world, and has opened up millions of eyes to this risky

Universe once more.”

The Wall Street Journal goes on to say: “For societies founded on Biblical traditions,

pandemics need not make for the end. This is a call for repentance and revival.

Great struggles can produce great clarity.

In the Old Testament, it would seem that men of Spiritual

resources may not only redeem catastrophe but turn the

moment into a great creative opportunity."

Your Body is God's Temple

by Barry Borthistle

King Hezekiah (chapter 13 in the book)

King Hezekiah inherited his country from his father who was totally anti God.

The country was in deep distress and the first thing that Hezekiah did was to

restore the nation to God. Prosperity and health returned to the country so much

so that there were not sufficient priests to accept financial offerings.

King Hezekiah is recognized in scripture as perhaps the greatest king ever

(2 Kings 18:5-6).

Habakkuk (chapter 8 in the book) Habakkuk was living in a time of a pandemic,

very similar to ours today, and was very discouraged. God told him to write a

vision (chapter 8 and 9). The vision was THE JUST SHALL LIVE BY FAITH.

This was the vision that inspired Martin Luther. What is your vision?

Chapter 8 and 9 give 11 reasons why to write a vision because this is what both

Hezekiah and Habakkuk did.

3 Ways to Buy my Book

1. Paperback version and PDF version here :

solomonsporchteaching.com/store

2. At Trivita.com:

https://www.trivita.com/product/?id=7721

3. Amazon.com EBook :

Your Body is God's Temple: The amazing life-changing truth! (Solomon Porch) eBook : Borthistle, Barry: Amazon.ca: Kindle Store

GOD BLESS CANADA AND THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA.

I think we all realize that it is a privilege to live either in Canada or the USA. Let me share a bit of the Biblical foundation of both countries.

United States of America: July 4, 1776 , when George Washington became the first president, when the big day came, he called for prayer with his entire cabinet. The words “SO HELP ME GOD” which are now used worldwide, with the hand on the Bible, was introduced by either George Washington or Abraham Lincoln.

Later that year, he introduced Thanksgiving Day as a day of prayer.

The foundation of the USA later became even stronger. After being sworn in as president, George Washington invited all of Congress to walk with him to Trinity Church, now known as St. Paul's Church, in a two-hour prayer and worship service.

As I understand the story, St. Paul’s Church was the only building that was not destroyed by the horrific explosion on September 11, 2001. The story indicates that not even a window was broken. It was suggested that a sycamore tree protected St. Paul’s church

There’s more excited news to this story but you will have to listen to my podcast.

One more fact: James Madison who wrote the US Constitution, included Isaiah 33:22 which states the three branches of the US government, which is known as a republic:

1. Courts

2. Congress

3. President

Canada: July 1, 1867 is a democracy which was formed under the British parliamentary system. The party that receives the most members of parliament forms the government. But, like the USA, the Fathers of Confederation chose Bible verses as part of the foundation for the Constitution.

The most famous verse is PSALM 72:8.

Psalm 72:8 is embedded above the main entrance to the parliament buildings in Ottawa and is also in the Coat of Arms.

Sir Leonard Tilly, one of our Founding Fathers, chose this verse because he liked the word "dominion," which means to reign. Canada's birthday used to be called Dominion Day.

HERE IS MY DREAM

MY DREAM IS TO ACHIEVE OR DEVELOP A WORLDWIDE MOVEMENT THAT ENCOURAGES PEOPLE TO LIVE LIKE THEIR BODY IS GOD’S TEMPLE.

God Dwells Within the Temple (1 Corinthians 3:16-17, 1 Corinthians 6:17-20). God's Temple is made up of Spirit/Spiritual, Soul/Emotional, Body/Physical (1 Thessalonians 5:23). AMAZING.

Josh McDowell reveals to us that the DNA in one cell in the human body holds the equivalent of roughly 800 books of information. A typical human body has about a hundred trillion cells, each of which has a DNA strand that could be uncoiled to about three meters in length.

Thus, if the DNA in one adult human was strung together it would stretch from Earth to the Sun and back about 70 times.

Proofs of God's Love For You:

1. We are fearfully and wonderfully made (Jeremiah 29:11).

2. Even the hairs on our heads our numbered. The average person has about 100,000 hairs (Luke 12:7).

3. God even knew you and formed you in your mother's womb (Jeremiah 1:5).

4. Most important of all, God sent His Son. Jesus Christ to die for us so that we may live eternally with Him (John 3:15-18).

1. ''Dream a dream so big that if God is not in it, it will fail." ~Hudson Taylor

2. "You are never too old to dream a new dream". ~ C.S. Lewis

3. "Remember, mass movements were not started by the masses". ~ John Maxwell

This is a must-watch (and will give you

hope) by Chris Maynard:

https://bit.ly/3p8mDEA

GOD PROMISES TO HEAL (DIVINE INTERVENTION) OUR LAND IF WE TAKE FOUR STEPS OF OBEDIENCE

2 Chronicles 7:1-11 - Result of Solomon's prayers: Divine acceptance and God's Glory entered the Temple.

2 Chronicles 7:12-22 - God appeared to Solomon a second time, 20 years after the dedication of the Temple

(2 Chronicles 8:1).

2 Chronicles 7:13-15 - God obviously knew the people would not be obedient after Solomon's dedication prayer. This is God speaking to us today: In verse 13, God says "if" three times, which means it is His choice. There are 1,522 instances of the word "if' in the Bible.

• "If I stop the rain..."

• "If I command locust to devour the land..."

• "If I send pestilence ..."

Today, there are billions of locusts destroying the food supply in parts of Africa and East Asia. Pestilence is a contagious, infectious disease greatly affecting us today in the form of COVID-19.

Verse 14 - To me, this is one of the most incredible verses in the Bible because it is directed to us today. "If {our choice] my people who are called by name will do four things:"

1. Humble themselves which means to bend the knee. It is used in 2 Chronicles 34:27. Spurgeon said voluntary humbleness is what

God is looking for (that's what Solomon did).

2. Pray. Pray means to make supplication, to ask for. There are at least 12 preparation steps for prayer in order for God to even

hear our prayer (details to follow). Two of the most important are repentance (1 John 1:5-10 (5 "ifs" in that chapter)) and forgiving

others (Matthew 6:14-15).

3. "Seek my face. Seek me to search out, to worship or to request (Psalm 80:7,19)."

4. Turn from your wicked ways. Turn means return to the starting point or to relinquish.

Solomon used the word turn three times in his prayer (2 Chronicles 6:26,37,42).

If We Do These 3 Things, Here is God's Promise to Us

1. I will hear you from Heaven . (Hear means

attention.)

2. I will forgive your sin as far as the East is

from the West (Psalm 103:12).

3. Heal our land which means to mend like a physician, to repair thoroughly, DIVINE NTERVENTION. Th word heal is also used

in Isaiah 53:5 in the context of our salvation and physical healing.

I believe that our Founding Fathers had in mind that if a country was governed in the following order, it would be blessed of God:

1. Spiritual

2. Culture

3. Politics

IT IS THE DUTY OF ALL NATIONS TO ACKNOWLEDGE ALMIGHTY GOD, TO OBEY HIS WILL, AND HUMBLY TO IMPLORE HIS FAVOUR

- PRESIDENT GEORGE WASHINGTON

''Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord." (Psalm 33:12)

I Timothy 2 instructs us to pray for those (politicians) who are in authority. It does not say we have to agree with them.

"When a critical mass of people had the Bible and apply what it teaches in their lives, a nation can be transformed." ~ Loren Cunningham

Example: The media in Wales stated that the preaching of Dr. Martyn Lloyd Jones likely saved Wales from becoming

the first European country to be taken over by communism.

"Behold, I will do something new, now it will spring forth! Will you not be aware of it? I will even make a roadway in the wilderness,

rivers in the desert." Isaiah 43:19

To join this movement, go to www.solomonsporchteaching.com/podcast

Click Here for a personal prayer guide: Prayer Guide by Barry Borthistle (solomonsporchteaching.com)

Shalom,

Ruth and Barry Borthistle

The Amazing Principle: Your Body is God's Temple

Tue, 07 Nov 2023 23:59:21 GMT

The Amazing Principle

New episode!

Barry and Ruth explore some truths for our time.

WHAT IS A BIBLICAL WORLDVIEW?

christiana.walter2@gmail.com (Christiana Walter) — Thu, 12 Oct 2023 23:31:44 GMT

A Biblical worldview is a worldview behavior based upon God’s unchanging inspired Word. II Timothy 3:15-17

BY Barry Borthistle, a Spiritual Entrepreneur with a Biblical Worldview

A Biblical worldview is a worldview behavior based upon God’s unchanging inspired Word. II Timothy 3:15-17

Examples of worldviews (by Artanna)

Secular worldview: a secular worldview teaches that beliefs are a matter of personal preference, not absolute truth. Truth in a secular worldview comes from reason and science.

Scientific world (Scientific Naturalism): our Biblical Worldview textbook defines a scientific world as , “A worldview which holds that there is nothing but natural elements, principles, and relations of the kind studied by the natural sciences (p. 307).”

Postmodern worldview: postmodernism believes there is no absolute truth. Personal truth is determined by your upbringing and culture. It believes that truth is just used to suppress and oppress the less powerful.

Why is a Biblical worldview important?

A Biblical worldview is important because it is the only true worldview. If we reject God’s Word, we fail to see the world as it really is. Think of a worldview as a pair of glasses. If you have broken or discoloured lenses or the wrong prescription, you won’t see the world correctly. A Biblical worldview shows you the world as its Creator intended. We’d love to be able to see the world with perfect vision, but because of sin, our view is distorted. Using a Biblical worldview corrects our vision and helps us see the world through the theme of God’s redemption.

How to determine your worldview:

Your beliefs, actions, and perspective of the world all define your worldview. Here are a few questions to ask when defining your view of the world:

What are your basic beliefs?

These are what we call the head and heart system. Your worldview affects how you think about things. Why do you think murder is wrong”? Why is kindness important? What happens after this life? Your worldview is what determines your answers to these questions.

A worldview is not simply intellectual – it also influences your feelings and desires. What do you love? What are you passionate about? Our heart can tell us a lot about our worldview. But the heart or emotions can make a worldview inconsistent, wrong and sometimes evil.

What is the big story of the world?

A person’s worldview also determines how they interpret past, present and future. A worldview tells the story of where we came from, why we’re here and where we’re going. This master story can also be called a meta-narrative. How we tell stories is important and how we view the big story of the world determines what stories we value and most importantly, the stories we tell our children.

"A Gospel that does not deal with the issues of the day is not a Gospel at all.” ~~ Martin Luther

“The Christian belief system (worldview) which the Christian knows to be grounded in divine revelation is relevant to all of life.” ~~ Carl F. H. Henry

A BIBLICAL WORLDVIEW HAS A RADICAL EFFECT ON A PERSON’S LIFE

Any objective social analyst would conclude that the United States and Canada and the globe, faces its fair share of moral and spiritual problems. A new research study from Barna Group suggests that a larger share of the nation’s moral and spiritual challenges is directly attributable to the absence of a Biblical worldview.

Citing the findings from a just-completed national survey of 2033 adults that showed only 4% of adults have a biblical worldview as the basis of their decision-making, researcher George Barna described the outcome. “If Jesus Christ came to this planet as a model of how we ought to live, then our goal should be to act like Jesus. Sadly, few people consistently demonstrate the love, obedience and priorities of Jesus, the primary reason that people do not act like Jesus is because they do not think like Jesus. Behavior stems from what we think – our attitudes, beliefs and values.

Among the most prevalent alternative worldviews was postmodernism, which seemed to be the dominant perspective among the two youngest generations (i.e. the Busters and Mosaics).

Barna Research:

Only 9% of Christians have a Biblical worldview.
Only 2% of parents are teaching their children a Biblical worldview
Only 37% of pastors have a Biblical worldview
Only 10% of youth pastors have a Biblical worldview.

“The Bible has all the answers to all of our problems if we would only read and obey”. ~~ President Ronald Reagan

Barry Borthistle has written three books, all from a perspective of ‘how to live with a Biblical worldview’ .

“Your Body is God’s Temple” – I Cor. 3:16,17
“Spiritual Authority” - that Jesus Christ gave to us with the keys = competent authority; Matt. 16:18,19
“33 Things the Holy Spirit Wants for You”, as God’s Temple - Acts 1:7,8

All available at solomonsporchteaching.com

Articles that Barry has written on the subject of the Vital Importance of a Biblical Worldview, as a basis to make the correct decisions in life.

A Biblical Worldview will have a Positive Effect on your Life
Our Behavior will follow our Biblical worldview
The Vital Importance of a Biblical Worldview of End Times
The Biblical worldview of the Word of God.

Conclusion:

When a person has a Biblical worldview to guide life when making decisions including:

Marriage
Parenting
How to handle trials
Finances - There are well over 2000 verses about money plus 40% of the parables of Jesus were about money.
Prophecy – the Bible is about 30% prophetic, telling us what the future looks like and how we should live until Jesus returns.
Forgiveness – the key to living the Biblical worldview is the power to forgive because you cannot move forward if you do not. Jesus said if we do not forgive, He cannot forgive us. Matthew 6:13-15

Remember… Your body is God’s Temple

The New World Order

Fri, 04 Aug 2023 18:02:08 GMT

Why You Should Know What the Bible Says About the New World Order

Shalom, Barry Borthistle bborthistle@shaw.ca

Barry C. Borthistle has led 6 different organizations to the multi-million-dollar sales category. He has accomplished this in different sectors of retail and direct sales, both as an owner and as corporate leader. He is Co-founder of TriVita Inc. a global wellness company.

BUSINESS BACKGROUND

• Former president of a 200-million-dollar nutritional company, Enrich International • Fifteen years climbing the corporate executive ladder with The Bay, Sears, and Canadian Tire

• Thirty years self-employed, owned or began several small businesses in the retail sector and in the direct-selling industry

• Co-founder and former President of The TriVita Way International, 1999-2007 • Six years as a pastor, Calvary Chapel

• Currently, Presidential Director, TriVita Inc.

AWARDS

• The Price-Waterhouse Recognition for New Start-up companies, 1996 • The prestigious Winston Churchill Award, 1997

• Featured in North America’s “Who’s Who in Business”, 1998, 2004 • Leading Health Professionals of the World, 2006

• Entrepreneurial Leadership Award, 2008, Trinity Western University, Langley, British Columbia

• Co-founder Award, TriVita, 2012

• Invited by Queen Elizabeth on the Royal Yacht Britannia in Boston Harbor to discuss business opportunities in the UK.

Author of Your Body is God's Temple

Excerpt from “The Unshakeable Truth” by Josh McDowell

Do we really know who we are and the authority that we have in and through Jesus Christ?

“Life requires vast amounts of information…The key feature to life is information. Life, even the simplest of

bacterial cells, requires vast amounts of information to function. Cellular information is stored in DNA. The

DNA in one cell in the human body holds the equivalent of roughly 8000 books of information. A typical

human body has about 100 trillion cells, each of which has a DNA strand that could be uncoiled to about

three meters in length. Thus, if the DNA in an adult human were strung together, it would stretch from earth

to the sun and back around 70 times!”

– Josh MacDowell

Why Do We Need Believers Authority?

By Andrew Wommack

“Many Christians have adopted a humanistic view of things. They do not realize the spiritual implication behind what is going on in their lives. What I mean by humanistic is that they onlylook at things on a surface level. They think most everything they encounter on a daily basis is either physical or natural.

The truth is, there is a battle raging every single day in the spiritual realm. That battle is for your heart and the hearts of every other person on earth.

God is trying to influence people and draw them toward righteousness and toward Himself, to live consistent with Him so that His blessings can be manifest in their lives.

James 4:7-10. “Submit yourself, therefore, to God, and resist the devil and he will flee from you.”

To win in this war, you must know who you are and the authority you have as a believer.”

Remember that you are the temple of the Holy Spirit, and this is why you have the authority as a believer (1 Corinthians 3:16-17 and 1 Corinthians 6:17-20)."

WHAT IS SPIRITUAL AUTHORITY?

YOUR BODY IS GOD’S TEMPLE – AN AMAZING TRUTH

1ST CORINTHIANS 6:17-20

“TO RECOGNIZE AND RECEIVE THE WONDROUS TRUTH OF BEING GOD’S TEMPLE IS THE BEGINNING OF WALKING AND

LIVING A SUPERNATURAL LIFE.” – Michael Ellison, author of the book 10 Habits of Wellness

When you walk and live in this incredible truth that you are God’s Temple, Spiritual Authority that God has

promised becomes life changing.

To apply God’s Spiritual Authority to your life and/or circumstances, the one major ingredient you need is FAITH. It is impossible (impotent) to please God without faith. By faith Noah built a ship in the middle of dry land. By faith, Abraham said yes to God’s call to travel to an unknown place that would become his home at age 75. By faith barren Sarah was able to become pregnant. By faith, George Mueller fed over 10,000 orphans. At this time, England was only looking after 3600 orphans. By faith, Mueller built five large orphan houses. By faith, Mueller never asked anybody but God for money and millions of dollars came in.

Remember, nothing is impossible with God (Luke 1:37).The word “nothing” is used 75 times in the New

Testament and has 10 different meanings. The meaning in Luke 1:37 is very unique and it means “rhema.” So,

my translation would read NOTHING IS IMPOSSIBLE WITH GOD IF IT IS BASED ON HIS RHEMA WORD.

Secretary-General’s remarks at the World Government Summit with Q&A

Watch video on webtv.un.org United Nations

I f one looks at today’s governance problems at the country level, between countries or at multilateral

governance in the world, we face a terrible lack of trust. Lack of trust between peoples, between

governments and political establishment. Lack of trust between countries and lack of trust in relation to

governments in global multilateral institutions.

We see youth, youth that is the potential of mankind. But, in many countries that have problems in relation

to the capacity to find hope, to find jobs, even if they are educated, creating enormous frustrations. All this

generates, in a context where also political systems have not been able to adapt to the new changes in the

communication and information technologies, this has generated a gap between public opinion, societies,

and governments. That is one of the factors, today, that undermines governance. And then, if we associate

it, in certain societies, with corruption and other problems, we understand that we have a serious problem

to handle.

And that is where the other gap of confidence becomes extremely important. In a world in which everything

is global, in which the problems are global – from climate change to the movement of people – there is no

way countries can do it themselves. We need global responses, and global responses need multilateral

institutions able to play their role.

What Does 666 Mean?

Revelation 13:16-17

Dr. David Jeremiah

Why 666?

Many have theorized about the meaning of 666. Goliath stood six cubits tall, and he wore six items of armor. Nebuchadnezzar’s statue stood sixty cubits high, six cubits wide, and six musical instruments beckoned its worshipers.

Revelation 13:16-17

During the Tribulation, there will be a new showman who surpasses every grandstander before him. Unlike Barnum, his tricks won’t be lighthearted entertainment or freely chosen. Promising peace and prosperity, he will convince nations to disarm and grant him complete control. Together with his False Prophet, the Antichrist will convince millions that his government and his economic system is:

Everything you ever want It’s everything you ever need

And it’s right here in front of you [It] is where you wanna be.

The price of admission to this world order will be a nonrefundable, mandatory mark worn by every citizen. It is known as the mark of the Beast, or simply “666.”

The word used in the passage for the mark is the Greek word charagma. In antiquity, this word was always associated with the Roman emperor. It often contained the emperor’s name, his image, and the year of his reign. It was necessary for buying and selling and was required to be affixed to documents to attest to their validity. During the Tribulation, every living person will be required to take the Beast’s mark. As in the days of Rome, it will be the only way to function in society.

The most likely answer is perhaps the least intriguing. Revelation 13:18 tells us it is the number of man. We see this affirmed throughout the Scripture.

In Genesis, man was created on the sixth day. In the Old Testament Law, men were called to work six out of every seven days. A Hebrew could only

be held as a slave for a maximum of six years. After six consecutive years of sowing a field, it was required to lay fallow. The number may not

identify an individual so much as it identifies the human race.

We could sum it up to say the number 666 represents the ultimate in human ingenuity and competence. The Antichrist is the epitome of man’s last attempt at ruling the world before Jesus overrules all those who oppose Him once and for all.

How Will 666 Miss the Mark?

The mark of the Beast will offer hollow promises and incomplete relief during the Tribulation. It

will give people access to buy and sell goods, but many will barely earn enough money to buy food (Revelation 6). Worse still, the mark will separate its bearers from the love of God and sentence them to eternal judgment.

If anyone worships the beast and his image, and receives his mark on his forehead or on his hand, he himself shall also drink of the wine of the

wrath of God, which is poured out full strength into the cup of indignation. He shall be tormented with fire and brimstone in the presence of the holy

angels and in the presence of the Lamb. And the smoke of their torment ascends forever and ever; and they have no rest day or night, who worship

the beast and his image, and whoever receives the mark of his name.

Revelation 14:9-11

Mankind yearns for completeness because God has put eternity in our hearts (Ecclesiastes 3:11). The number 666 reminds us that there is

something – or Someone – missing. Man’s best efforts will never culminate in perfection. On our own, we will always come up short, and we will

always long for the perfect completeness that can only be found in God.

Does God Have a Number?

Six symbolizes man, but seven symbolizes God. Seven is the number of completion. God created seven days in a week and seven notes in the

musical scale. In Leviticus 23, He ordained seven feasts. Jesus made seven “I am” statements about Himself, and He made seven statements from

the cross. One day He will be honored with a seven-fold doxology by every creature on earth. “Worthy is the Lamb who was slain to receive power

and riches and wisdom, and strength and honor and glory and blessing!” (Revelation 5:12)

The number seven appears more than thirty times in the book of Revelation. There are seven seal judgments that present the world ruined by man.

There are seven trumpet judgments that present the world ruined by Satan. There are seven bowl judgments that present the world reclaimed by

God. Complete destruction. Complete desolation. Complete redemption. Even God’s judgement is meted out in perfect proportion (Proverbs 24:13).

Is There an Alternative to 666?

Those who refuse the mark of the Beast will suffer the Antichrist’s wrath. They will be unable to buy, sell, work, or function in society. Anyone without the mark will be killed or starved (Revelation 13:15-17), and Christians will be martyred for their faith.

Which Mark Will You Bear?

Citizens of the Antichrist’s empire will be distinguished by the indelible mark of the Beast. Citizens of Christ’s kingdom are also identified by a mark: God marks believers as His very own by sending His Holy Spirit to live in them.

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, who is the guarantee of our inheritance until the redemption of the purchased possession, to the praise of His glory. - Ephesians 1:13-14

Plagues, Pestilence and Pandemics Are Mentioned over 100 Times in the Word of God

Joel Rosenberg of the Joshua Fund suggests that most of the plagues are to judge the nations.

Jim Showers of Friends of Israel suggests that all plagues are a sign of the judgment of God.

Chabad.org

The Ten Plagues

A summary of the ten plagues God wrought upon the Egyptians

When Pharoah persisted in his refusal to liberate the children of Israel, Moses and Aaron warned him that God would punish both him and his people. And, indeed, God sent the ten plagues, one after the next, until Pharoah conceded. Below is a list of the ten plagues in Hebrew and a summary of each plague.

1. Dam – Blood

First, the waters of the land of Egypt were to be turned into blood. Moses walked with Aaron to the brink of the river. There Aaron raised his staff, struck the water, and converted them into streams of blood. All the people of Egypt and the King himself beheld this miracle; they saw the fish die as the blood flowed over the land and they turned with disgust from the offensive smell of the sacred river. It was impossible for them to drink of the water of the Nile, far-famed for its delicious taste; and they tried to dig deep into the ground for water. Unfortunately for the Egyptians, not only the floods of the Nile but all the waters of Egypt, wherever they were, turned to blood. The fish died in the rivers and lakes, and for a whole week man and beast suffered horrible thirst. Yet Pharoah would not give in.

2. Tzefardeia – Frogs

After due warning, the second plague came to Egypt. Aaron stretched forth his hand over the waters of Egypt, and frogs swarmed forth. They covered every inch of land and entered the houses and bedrooms; wherever an Egyptian turned, whatever he touched, he found there the slimy bodies of frogs, the croakings of which filled the air. Now Pharoah became frightened, and he asked Moses and Aaron to pray to God to remove the nuisance, promising that he would liberate the Jewish people at once. But as soon as the frogs disappeared, he broke his promise and refused to let the children of Israel go.

3. Kinim – Bugs

Then God ordered Aaron to strike the dust of the earth with his staff, and no sooner did he do so than all over Egypt bugs crawled forth from the dust to cover the land. Man and beast suffered untold misery from this terrible plague. Although Pharoah’s aids pointed out that this surely was God’s punishment, Pharoah hardened his heart and remained relentless in his determination to keep the children of Israel in bondage.

4. Arov – Wild Animals

The fourth plague to harass the Egyptians consisted of hordes of wild animals roving all over the country, and destroying everything in their path. Only the province of Goshen where the children of Israel dwelt was immune from this as well as from the other plagues. Again Pharoah promised faithfully to let the Hebrews go out into the desert on the condition that they would not go too far. Moses prayed to God, and the wild animals disappeared. But as soon as they had gone, Pharoah withdrew his promise and refused Moses’ demand.

5. Dever – Pestilence

Then God sent a fatal pestilence that killed most of the domestic animals of the Egyptians. How the people must have grieved when they saw their stately horses, the pride of Egypt, perish; when all the cattle of the fields were stricken at the word of Moses; and when the animals upon which they looked as gods died smitten by the plague! They had, moreover, the mortification of seeing the beasts of the Israelites unhurt. Yet Pharoah still hardened his heart, and would not let the Israelites go.

6. Shechin – Boils

Then followed the sixth plague, which was so painful and horrible that it must have struck the people of Egypt with horror and agony. God commanded Moses to take soot from the furnaces, and to sprinkle it towards heaven; and as Moses did so, boils burst forth upon man and beast throughout the land of Egypt.

7. Barad – Hail

Now, Moses announced to the king that a hailstorm of unprecedented violence was to sweep the land; no living thing, no tree, no herb was to escape its fury unhurt; safety was to be found only in the shelter of the houses; those, therefore, who believed and were afraid might keep in their homes and drive their cattle into the sheds. Some of the Egyptians took this council to heart; but the reckless and the stubborn left their cattle with their servants in the fields. When Moses stretched forth his staff, the hail poured down with violence; deafening thunder rolled over the earth, and lightning rent the heavens, and ran like fire along the ground. The hail did its work of destruction; man and beast who were exposed to its rage died on the spot; the herbs were scattered to the wind, and the trees lay shattered on the ground. But the land of Goshen, untouched by the ravages of the storm, bloomed like a garden amidst the general devastation. Then Pharoah sent for Moses and acknowledged his sins (Exodus 9:27). “I have sinned this time. The Lord is the righteous One, and I and my people are the guilty ones. Entreat the Lord, and let it be enough of God’s thunder and hail, and I will let you go, and you shall not continue to stand.”

Moses replied: “When I leave the city, I will spread my hands to the Lord. The thunder will cease, and there will be no more hail, in order that you know that the Land is the Lord’s.” And it happened as Moses had said: the storm ceased but Pharoah’s heart remained hardened.

8. Arbeh – Locust

The next time Moses and Aaron came before Pharoah, he appeared somewhat relenting, and asked them who was to participate in the worship the Israelites wanted to hold in the desert. When they told him that everyone without exception, young and old, men and women, and animals, were to go, Pharoah suggested that only the men should go, and that the women and children, as well as their possessions should remain in Egypt. Moses and Aaron would not accept this offer, and Pharoah became angry and ordered them to leave his palace. Before leaving, Moses warned him of new and untold suffering. But Pharoah remained adamant, even though his advisors advised against further resistance.

As soon as Moses left the palace, he raised his arms toward heaven and an east wind brought swarms of locusts into Egypt, covering the sun, and devouring everything green that had escaped the hail and previous plagues. Never in the history of mankind had there been such a devastating plague of locusts as this one. It brought complete ruin upon Egypt, which had already been thoroughly ravaged by the previous catastrophes. Again Pharoah sent for Moses and Aaron, and implored them to pray to God to stop the plague. Moses complied, and God sent a strong west wind that drove the locusts into the sea. When relief came, Pharoah’s obstinacy returned to him, and he refused to liberate the people of Israel.

9. Choshech – Darkness

Then followed the ninth plague. For several days all of Egypt was enveloped in a thick and impenetrable veil of darkness which extinguished all lights kindled. The Egyptians were gripped with fear, and remained glued to their places wherever they stood or sat. Only in Goshen, where the children of Israel dwelt, there was light. But not all of the Jews were saved from this plague. There were a few who wanted to be regarded as Egyptians rather than as members of the Hebrew race, and who tried, therefore, to imitate the Egyptians in everything, or, as we call it, to assimilate themselves. They did not want to leave Egypt. These people died during the days of darkness.

Again Pharoah tried to bargain with Moses and Aaron, bidding them depart with all their people, leaving their flocks and herds behind as a pledge. Moses and Aaron informed him, however, that they would accept nothing less than complete freedom for the men, women, and children, and that they were to take all their belongings with them. Now Pharoah became angry and ordered Moses and Aaron to leave and never to return. He warned them that if they were to come before him again they would die. Moses replied that it would not be necessary for them to see Pharoah, for God would send one more plague over Egypt, after which Pharoah would give his unconditional permission for the children of Israel to leave Egypt. Exactly at midnight, Moses continued, God would pass over Egypt and smite all first-born, man and beast. Of the children of Israel, however, nobody was to die. A bitter cry would sweep Egypt, and all the Egyptians would be gripped with terror, lest they all die. Then Pharoah himself would come seek out the leaders of the Hebrews, and beg them to leave Egypt without delay. With these words, Moses and Aaron left Pharaoh, who was seething with rage.

The Passover Sacrifice

On the first day of the month of Nissan, two weeks before the Exodus from Egypt, God said to Moses and Aaron: “This month shall be to you the head of the months; to you it shall be the first of the months of the year. Speak to the entire community of Israel, saying (Exodus 12:2-31), “On the tenth of this month, let each one take a lamb for each parental home, a lamb for each household.” On the tenth of this month let each one take a lamb…a lamb for each household…a lamb for a household…And you shall keep it for inspection until the fourteenth day of this month…And this is how you shall eat it: your loins girded, your shoes on your feet, and your staff in your hand; and you shall eat it in haste it is a Passover sacrifice to the Lord. And I will see the blood and skip over you, and there will be no plague to destroy [you] when I smite the [people of the] land of Egypt. And this day shall be for you as a memorial, and you shall celebrate it as a festival for the Lord; throughout your generations, you shall celebrate it as an everlasting statute. For seven days you shall eat unleavened bread, but on the preceding day you shall clear away all leaven from your houses…And it will come to pass if your children say to you, “What is this service to you?” you shall say, It is a Passover sacrifice to the Lord, for He passed over the houses of the children of Israel in Egypt when He smote the Egyptians, and He saved our houses!”

10. Makkat Bechorot – Death of the Firstborns

Midnight of the fourteenth to the fifteenth of Nissan came, and God struck all first-born in the land of Egypt, from the first-born of King Pharaoh, down to the first-born of a captive in the dungeon, and all the firstborn of the cattle, exactly as Moses had warned. There was a loud and bitter wail in each house a loved one lay fatally stricken.

Then Pharaoh called for Moses and Aaron during that very night, and said to them: “Arise, go out from among my people, both you and the children of Israel; and go, serve the Lord as you have said; and take your flocks and your herds, as you have said, and go, and bless me also.” At last, then, the pride of the stubborn king was broken.

Meanwhile the Hebrews had been preparing for their hasty departure. With beating hearts, they had assembled in groups to eat the Paschal lamb before midnight, arrayed as they had been commanded. The women had taken from the ovens the unleavened cakes, which were eaten with the meat of the roasted lamb. The preparations were at last concluded, and all was ready. At the word of command, the whole nation of the Hebrews poured forth into the cool, still Eastern morning. But not even amidst their trepidation and danger did they forget the pledge given by their ancestors to Joseph, and they carried his remains, with them, to inter them later in the Promised Land.

Moses told all this to the children of Israel. It required a great deal of faith and courage for the children of Israel to carry out this Command, for the lamb was a sacred animal to the ancient Egyptians. But the children of Israel eagerly and fearlessly carried out all that God had ordered.

Here’s a thought: Could it be that God will continue to send things like pandemics and other catastrophes until His people repent?

It is obvious that the Lord uses plagues to get our attention. But remember God has created us with the power of choice.

God gave Pharaoh nine chances to repent. Every time God sent a plague upon Egypt, Pharaoh hardened his heart.

There were 10 plagues for 10 Egyptian gods and goddesses.

You shall have no other gods before me.

Exodus 20:2 Deuteronomy 5:6-7

Just like Pharaoh, people will not repent and turn to God even during the last seven plagues (Revelation 16: 9-11).

Revelation Chapter 15

Preparation for the last seven plagues on the earth.

The complete wrath of God over the beast and his number, 666.

7 is the number of completion.

Revelation Chapter 16

Sin is punished

1. Verse 1-2: Every person who had the mark 666 received 7 plagues.

16: 1-21 Here we have the pouring out of seven vials of God’s wrath constituting the fiercest expression of His anger. The seven vial judgments are: (1) The vial of noisome and grievous sores covering the bodies of men who have received the mark of the beast. (2) The sea of blood when everything in the sea dies. (3) The rivers become bloody. (4) Men are scorched with great heat and they blaspheme in the name of God. (5) The earth is filled with darkness and men gnaw their tongues in pain, curse and blaspheme the God of heaven, and yet do not repent of their evil deeds. (6) The river Euphrates dries up, and an army marches on Israel.

16:17-21 Again a parenthetical portion appears between the sixth and seventh vials as in the case of the sixth and seventh seals and the sixth and seventh trumpets.

When the seventh angel pours out his vial in the air, there are voices, thunderings and lightnings, and a great earthquake such as the world had never seen before. Great hailstones weighing 120 pounds pulverize the earth.

Revelation 16: 16-21

16: And he gathered them together into a place called in the Hebrew tongue Armageddon.

17: And the seventh angel poured out his vial into the air; and there came a great voice out of the temple of heaven, from the throne, saying, It is done.

18: And there were voices, and thunders, and lightnings; and there was a great earthquake, such as was not since men were upon the earth, so mighty an earthquake, and so great.

19: And the great city was divided into three parts, and the cities of the nations fell: and great Babylon came in remembrance before God, to give unto her the cup of the wine of the fierceness of His wrath.

20: And every island fled away, and the mountains were not found.

21: And there fell upon men a great hail out of heaven, every stone about the weight of a talent: and men blasphemed God because of the plague of the hail; for the plague thereof was exceeding great. With hailstorms weighing up to a hundred pounds or more each.

Daniel 12:4 The End Times will be signaled by two obvious signs.

1. Travel

Man has gone from walking to riding horses, to boats, to trains to automobiles, and now to space. Soon space flights will be open to the public.

2. Knowledge

In 1982 inventor Buck Mikister said that up to the 1900s knowledge doubled every 100 years. By 1945 it doubled every 25 years. By 1982, it doubled every 12 months.

Today knowledge is doubling about every few days, heading toward doubling every 24 hours. - IBM

What is Armageddon? Haggi Prophecy Bible

God chose the nation of Israel so that He would have a repository of divine truth for generations to come. Through Israel God has given the world the Word of God, the patriarchs, the prophets, Jesus Christ, and the apostles. There would be no Christianity without Jewish contribution.

God’s love for Israel produced Satan’s hatred for Israel and the Jewish people. Anti-Semitism is driven by a demon spirit because of the righteous contributions the Jewish people made to civilization.

A False Peace Treaty

At the beginning of the Tribulation, Satan’s messiah, the Antichrist, will sign a seven-year peace treaty with Israel granting them national security and the right to rebuild the third temple on the temple mount.

He will break this treaty in three and a half years and will attempt to obliterate every Jewish person from the face of the earth. John writes in Revelation, “Now when the dragon [Satan] saw that he had been cast to the earth, he persecuted the woman [Israel] who gave birth to the male Child (12:13).”

In Revelation we discover that the nations of the world come to Armageddon because of three unclean spirits that perform signs, going “out to the kings of the earth…to gather them to the battle of that great day of God Almighty” (Revelation 16:14).

Extermination is the Goal

Satan’s purpose is to exterminate every Jew on the face of the earth. The Lord Jesus Christ is returning to earth to rule over the seed of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. If Satan, through the Antichrist, can destroy the Jews, there is no reason for Jesus to return, and Satan could continue as the world ruler.

Here is the sequence of battle at Armageddon. In Ezekiel 38:9 we read, “You will ascend, coming like a storm, covering the land like a cloud.” Notice the phrase “covering the land.” Before it’s over, the Battle of Armageddon will cover the whole land of Israel.

God says in Joel, “I will also gather all nations, and bring them down to the Valley of Jehoshaphat” (3:2). The Valley of Jehoshaphat is that portion of land in Israel from Jerusalem over to the gate of Jordan and then northward. The Battle of Armageddon will reach from Armageddon on the north to the Valley of Jehoshaphat on the east.

God speaking through Zechariah says, “Behold, I will make Jerusalem a cup of drunkenness to all the surrounding peoples, when they lay siege against Judah and Jerusalem I will gather all the nations to battle” (Zechariah 12:2, 14:2).

200 Miles of Blood

When you put all these verses together we discover the Battle of Armageddon covers the whole land. It begins on the plains of Megiddo to the north, goes down through the Valley of Jehoshaphat, includes the land of Edo to the south and east, and Jerusalem.

In Revelation 14:19, we read concerning Armageddon, “So the angel thrust his sickle into the earth and gathered the vine of the earth, and threw it into the great winepress of the wrath of God. And the winepress was trampled outside the city, and blood came out of the winepress, up to the horses’ bridles, for one thousand six hundred furlongs. Think of it! Sixteen hundred furlongs is approximately two hundred miles. If you look at a map, you will discover that from the northern part of Israel to the southern part is approximately two hundred miles.

From North, South, East, and West

The Battle of Armageddon will begin when “At the time of the end of the king of the South [attacks] him” (Dan. 11:40). I believe the king of the South is Egypt along with a pan-Islamic military force marching toward Jerusalem for holy war.

Daniel continues, saying, “The king of the North shall come against him like a whirlwind.” This is Russia. Russia will seek to become a military superpower again by conquering the oil-rich Persian Gulf. Radical Islamic fundamentalists will join them in an effort to drive the Jews into the Mediterranean Sea.

After the Russian-Arab alliance has ravished the city of Jerusalem, they will withdraw to the plain of Megiddo, which is Armageddon. There God is going to destroy them so that the heathen (Gentile nations) may know He is God and that “He who keeps Israel shall neither slumber nor sleep (Psalm 121:4).”

With Russia and the Arab nations obliterated, the Antichrist from the federated states of Europe moves into Israel to set up his world-wide government “but news from the east and the north shall trouble him” (Dan. 11:44). The reason the Antichrist is troubled is that his military intelligence tells him a marching army of two hundred million is marching down the dry bed of the Euphrates River to engage him in a titanic struggle for world supremacy. (See Rev. 9:14-16; 16:12.)

A Holy Invasion from Heaven

The Battle of Armageddon concludes with another invasion, not from the north or south or east or west, but from heaven. John writes “Then I saw heaven opened, and behold, a white horse. And He who sat on him was called Faithful and True, and in righteousness He judges and makes war….His name is called The Word of God. And the armies [the saints] in heaven, clothed in fine linen, white and clean, followed Him on white horses. Now out of His mouth goes a sharp sword, that with it He should strike the nations. And He Himself will rule them with a rod of iron…And He has on His robe and on His thigh a name written: KING OF KINGS AND LORD OF LORDS” (Rev. 19:11, 13-16).

The Antichrist and the False Prophet are both thrown into the lake of fire burning with brimstone (Rev. 19:20), and Jesus Christ, the true Messiah, the Son of David, Shiloh, shall rule and reign forever from the city of Jerusalem, the city of God.

Does God Really Bless Those Who Bless Israel?

There is a divine principle that begins in Genesis and runs through the Scripture, though it is little known to the church: God blessed the Gentiles through the Jewish people.

God said to Abram, “Get out of your country, / From your kindred / And from your father’s house, / To a land that I will show you. / I will make you a great nation; / I will bless you / And make your name great; / And you shall be a blessing. I will bless those who bless you, / And I will curse him who curses you” (Gen. 12:1-3, emphasis added).

God’s policy of anti-Semitism is established beyond all doubt in these verses. He has promised to pour out His blessings on those who bless the Jewish people and Israel, and He has promised to curse those who are anti-Semitic.

Blessings to a Gentile Employer

The principle of God blessing the Gentiles through the Jewish people is demonstrated in the story of Jacob and Laban in Genesis 29 – 31. Jacob agreed to work seven years for Laban for the hand of beautiful Rachel in marriage. Laban deceived Jacob and gave to him his daughter Leah in marriage. Jacob was forced to work another seven years for Rachel’s hand in marriage.

Laban also changed Jacob’s wages ten times and started looking disfavorably on him, so Jacob fled with Leah and Rachel and all their possessions. When Laban heard of this, he went after Jacob. When he caught up with them, he asked Jacob why he fled. Jacob said, “You have changed my wages ten times, each time to my hurt, and you deceived me into marrying your homely daughter.”

Laban the Gentile employer said, “Please stay, if I have found favor in your eyes, for I have learned by experience that the Lord has blessed me for your sake” (Gen. 30:27, emphasis added). Laban knew firsthand that God blessed the Gentiles through the Jewish people.

Blessings to a Gentile Nation

A second Bible illustration of this principle is Joseph, a Jewish boy who was sold into the land of Egypt by his jealous brothers, but who became Egypt’s prime minister. He foresaw seven years of plenty and seven years of famine. When the seven years of famine came, Egypt, under Joseph’s leadership, became the envy of the world. The Gentile world was spared from starvation because of one Jewish slave who became prime minister.

Jesus also supported the principle that God blesses the Gentiles through the Jewish people when He said, “salvation is of the Jews” (John 4:22). It was the Jewish people who gave the Gentiles the Word of God, the patriarchs, the prophets, Jesus, and the apostles. Remove the Jewish contribution from Christianity and there would be no Christianity.

The Fall of Rome

And Why We Should Take Notice

Douglas Jacoby

Why did Rome (753 BC – AD 476) fall? Was it due to external circumstances (barbarian invasion, famine, plague, etc.), or to internal ones? We in the West ought to take notice.

· Mounting love of show and luxury

· Widening gap between the very rich and the very poor · Increased desire to live off the state

· Freakishness in the arts, masquerading as originality · Absorption in entertainment

· Obsession with sex

· Government debt and government corruption

How big was the British Empire and why did it collapse?

The largest in history at its height. There is little left of the British Empire today. As a result of its size, it became known as “the empire on which the sun never sets.”

It also oversaw around 412 million inhabitants, or around 23% of the world’s population at the time, writes the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development.

How did the Empire come about?

The British began to establish overseas colonies in the Americas in the 16th century, writes the BBC, but it wasn’t until the 18th century that its expansion really accelerated.

How big was the Empire?

From India, further expansion was undertaken through Asia, and by 1913 the British Empire was the largest to ever have existed.

It covered around 25% of the world’s land surface, including large swathes of North America, Australia, Africa and Asia, while other areas – especially in South America – were closely linked to the empire by trade, according to the National Archives.

It is also interesting to note that the UK abstained from the vote with the UN to confirm Israel as a nation in 1948 (Genesis 12:1-3).

How Did He Do This? King Josiah’s Action Plan

King Josiah was the 16th king of Israel. Most Bible scholars credit him with combining a lot of the Hebrew Scriptures. He also set in place reformation and God’s blessing for Israel.

· Read the Word of God – 2 Kings 23: 1-2 · Obeyed the Word of God – verse 3

· Executed false prophets

· He fulfilled the prophetic word – verse 16, 1 Kings 13:2

Spoke out against: § Idolatry

Idolatrous priests
Astrology (Zodiac) § False Idols
Homosexuality
Prostitution (promiscuous sex) § False gods
False altars
Places for pagan worship

During his reign the nation enjoyed great prosperity but his stand for God cost him his life (verse 28-30).

More Scripture examples to consider

The prophet Jeremiah saw through it all (Jeremiah 28:3-14). One of the most convincing evidences of all is found in Jeremiah 44.

Overnight, Judah’s good days turned into a hellish nightmare. Almighty God could not endure their abominations any longer.

Consider the fall of Babylon: Revelation 18. Revelation 18 predicts a graphic scene of a prosperous society falling under God’s judgment in one day.

Look at Sodom again: Ezekiel 16:47-50.

The book of Lamentations is Jeremiah’s cry after God smote Israel with judgments. When Jeremiah wrote Lamentations, judgment had already fallen on Israel, Judah, and Jerusalem. The nation’s cities and temples lay in ruins. Within just a short time Israel had gone from a booming prosperity to the description found in Chapter 1:11; 4:4-5; 4:12-13.

Apostle Paul warns us that you can push God just so far: 2 Peter 2:4-11 (Doom of false teachers).

2 Peter 2:12-17 (Depravity of false teachers).

Valley of Vision (Isaiah 22)

Call for repentance was over. Jerusalem and Judah had crossed the line (Isaiah 22:8-14).

A change in man’s conduct could bring about change in God’s judgment. God is free of sin, but HIS mercy endures forever.

Genesis 6:6-7 – There was repentance and mercy. It took 120 years to repent, but Noah found grace.

Exodus 32:13-16 – God remembered Abraham and gave Moses the Ten Commandments during a time of rebellion among God’s chosen people.

1 Samuel 15:35 – The Lord repented that he had made Saul king over Israel.

Jonah 3:10 – God repented of His decision to destroy Nineveh.

God is sovereign and He alone makes the decision (Psalm 22:27-28).

Question: Can the repentance of His people change the time of His return?

Answer: I do not know, but I do know this - “He is not willing that any should perish but that all should come to repentance (2 Peter 3:9).”

Dietrich Bonhoeffer, the great German pastor/theologian/martyr/spy was asked in 1943 how it was possible for the Church to sit back and let Hitler seize absolute power. His firm answer was this: “It was the teaching of cheap grace.”

Cheap grace is the preaching of forgiveness without requiring repentance, baptism without church discipline, communion without confession, absolution without personal confession. Cheap grace is grace without discipleship, grace without the cross, grace without Jesus Christ.

Dietrich Bonhoeffer

We live in a time and a culture that not only teaches cheap grace but praises it.

A Letter from a Friend Who Visited the Jewish Holocaust Camps

Good morning Barry,

I have tried to wrap my head around what happened in Germany. I went there 5 years ago to Berlin and read Bonhoeffer’s biography to try and grasp what and why it happened. I went to Sachsenhausen concentration camp and I was devastated at the atrocities committed there. I wanted to grasp how could this happen. Strangely I feel our world is on the same path again. There will be a power hungry leader that will identify a scapegoat for all the world’s problems. It was very hard for me to be told that 30,000 people were shot against this wall. The tour moved on but I could not. Joy came back and found me and said, “honey we have to keep up with the tour!” I said, “30,000 moms, dads, sons and daughters were murdered right here. My soul is wrenched and broken. How can I move on?” I want to lay prostrate on the ground and weep for the lost souls. Pretty emotional even now as I recall this time.

How Shall We Then Live Today?

1. Occupy or do business until He comes (Luke 19:13).

Key Point: Retirement is not a Biblical idea. Retirement was introduced in 1880 in Europe when the average age of death was 65.

Suggested reading: “As Long as I Have Breath” by Bruce Gordon, Focus on the Family.

2. Watch and pray

Key Point: Watch, keep awake, be alert, Spiritual alertness:

Matthew 26:41-42

“Watch and pray.” The word translated “watch” means “to have the alertness of a guard at night.” A night watchman must be even more vigilant than a daytime guard. In the daytime, danger can often be spotted from a distance. But in the night everything is different. A night watchman must use senses other than sight to detect danger. He is often alone in the in darkness and without the defenses he would otherwise employ. There may be no indications of enemy attack until it happens, so he must be hypervigilant, suspecting it at any moment. That is the type of watching Jesus spoke about.

3. Give thanks to God (1 Corinthians 15:57, 58)

Key point: Be steadfast, fixed, moral, settled, immovable – firm in your Biblical worldview; abounding, better, exceed, excel, over and above, in the work of the Lord.

A knowledge of Biblical prophecy will help us prepare and be ready for the Return of Jesus Christ (1 Thessalonians 4:13-18).

4. Live in faith and love

Key point: Without Faith it is impossible (impotent) to please God (Hebrews 11:6).

Be faithful.

5. Love

Love (agape) is the greatest gift (1 Corinthians 13:1-13). (See David Wilkerson’s sermon “An Eclipse of Faith” and “The Unreasonableness of Faith”

“ Faith is the refusal to panic .” – Dr. Martyn Lloyd Jones

Love is patient and kind. Do everything in love. There is no fear in love (1 Corinthians 13). 6. Comfort and edify one another (1 Thessalonians 5:1-11)

Key point: Comfort (encourage) each other and edify or build each other up.

Especially in light that the day of the Lord will come as a thief with sudden destruction.

7. Remember your redemption draws near (Luke 21:25-28).

Key point: Our attitude and lifestyle should be looking up, to be elated; lift up=poised

Because the coming of the Lord is near.

8. Live obedient to the Word of God

Key point: obedience is better than sacrifice (1 Samuel 15:22-23).

God’s Word is the apple (pupil) of this eye (Proverbs 7:1,2).

Paul gave us 7 Principles to live a godly life (2 Timothy 3:10).

Which is only possible through the Word of God (2 Timothy 3:16-17).

9. Keep an eye on Israel (Genesis 12:1-3)

Biblical prophecy which is approximately 30% of the Word of God.

If we know this, we will be blessed by God. This is the first of 7 blessings in Revelation. You are blessed if you read it, hear it and obey it (Revelation 1:3). 7 – God’s Number

1. Revelation 1:3 2. Revelation 14:13 3. Revelation 16:15 4. Revelation 19:9 5. Revelation 20:6 6. Revelation 22:7 7. Revelation 22:14 – All seven verses are about our future.

10. Repent – whatever happened to repentance? Jesus Christ Himself said of this mission in Matthew 9:13 and Luke 13:3

Jesus’ Gospel was all about repentance; Matthew 3:1-2 John the Baptist preached about repentance.

First sermon of Jesus Christ preached repentance (Matthew 4:17).

First sermon in the Church – Peter’s Repentance (Acts 2:38).

Without repentance God cannot forgive us (Matthew 6:14-15).

There is no darkness in God.

1 John 1:5-10

Five “ifs” (our decision)

Acts 2:36-47

The early church had as its foundation an explosive Growth following repentance.

11.What should the attitude of the Church be today? Is there hope? Praise God – YES! (2 Chronicles 7:12-22) – key verse is verse 14

The context in which the Lord gives us these instructions is in the vital importance of obedience as Solomon had just dedicated the temple where God dwells. Today God dwells in the temple of the believers (2 Corinthians 6:16-19).

Is there hope? Praise the Lord – YES!

When we repent, our attitude will demonstrate our sincerity. The hardest part of repentance is changing the behavior that originally propelled the sin.

Key point: God responds to: 1) repentance

2) obedience 3) faith

1. Repentance (1 John 5-10)

2. Obedience (Four great examples: Hebrews 11:4,7,8,11)

3. Faith (Hebrews 11:6)

Key point: Be conscious of your sin daily and remember our gracious Saviour will forgive. He will cast your sin as far as the east is from the west (Psalm 103:12).

12.Continue to witness for the Lord

Acts 1:8, Matthew 28:16-20

Key point: “the balance of expectation (that Jesus Christ could come at any moment) and participation (serving Him faithfully until He comes) is what the Christian life is really all about” – Ed Hinson

1. The world is literally held together by the Word of God

John 1:1-3 (logas)

Hebrews 11:3 (Rhema) (revealed) Psalms 33:6-9; 119:11-16

2. Be a person of prayer

The Holy Spirit intercedes for us to Jesus Christ (Romans 8:26-27) who then intercedes for us to the Father (Romans 8:34, Hebrews 7:25). Remember to please, and not to grieve, the Holy Spirit because you are the Temple of the Holy Spirit (Ephesians 4:28-32).

Behaviour Follows Belief in All Areas of Life Isaiah 43:19

“ Behold I will do a new thing, now it shall spring forth, shall you not know it? I will even make a way in the wilderness, and rivers in the desert. ”

Isaiah 43:19

How Now Shall We Live?

Quotes

Christians who understand biblical truth and have the courage to live it out can indeed redeem a culture, or even create one. This is the challenge facing all of us in the new millennium.

- Charles W. Colson, How Now Shall We Live?

Capitalism is astonishingly efficient at generating new wealth, but it operates beneficially only when the market is shaped by moral forces coming from both the law and the culture – derived ultimately from religion.

- Charles W. Colson, How Now Shall We Live?

(Phil. 4:8). Notice that Paul doesn’t limit that principle to spiritual things; he says if anything is excellent. Paul is telling us to train our tastes to love the higher things – things that challenge our mind, deepen our character, and foster a love of excellence – and this includes the music we listen to, the books and magazines we read, the films we watch, the forms of worship we employ.

- Charles W. Colson, How Now Shall We Live?

How Should We Then Live? The Rise and Decline of Western Thought and Culture

By Francis A. Schaeffer

“Drawing upon forty years of study in theology, philosophy, history, sociology and the arts, Dr. Schaeffer contemplates the reasons for modern society’s sorry state of affairs and argues for total affirmation of the Bible’s morals, values, and meaning.”

“We must realize that the Reformation world view leads in the direction of government freedom. But the humanist world view with inevitable certainty leads in the direction of statism. This is so because humanists, having no god, must put something at the center, and it is inevitably society, government, or the state.”

- Francis A. Schaeffer

"If man is not made in the image of God, nothing then stands in the way of inhumanity. There is no good reason why mankind should be perceived as special. Human life is cheapened. We can see this in many of the major issues being debated in our society today: abortion, infanticide, euthanasia, the increase of child abuse and violence of all kinds, pornography…the routine torture of political prisoners in many parts of the world, the crime explosion, and the random violence that surrounds us."

- Francis A. Schaeffer, Whatever Happened to the Human Race?

"The basic problem of the Christians in this country in the last eighty years or so, in regard to society and in regard to government, is that they have seen things in bits and pieces instead of totals."

- Francis A. Schaeffer, A Christian Manifesto

"When a man comes under the bloom of Christ, his whole capacity as a man is refashioned. His soul is saved, yes, but so are his mind and his body. True spirituality means the lordship of Christ over the total man."

- Francis A. Schaeffer, Art & the Bible

"Truth carries with it confrontation. Truth demands confrontation; loving confrontation, but confrontation nonetheless."

- Francis A. Schaeffer, The Great Evangelical Disaster

“To recognize and receive the wondrous truth of being God’s Temple is the beginning of walking and living a supernatural life.” – Michael Ellison

God has given each of us gifts of faith and grace (Romans 12:3). Jesus promised us his peace through the power of the Holy Spirit (John 14:7).

All the glory – honor – praise – thanksgiving must go to the only one true God

Psalms Chapter 115

“Glory. Honor. Praise. Presence. Credit. Admiration. Holy. The word glory takes on a variety of meanings. When was the last time you longed after the glory of God? When was the last time you gave God the glory? Have you ever thought about the Lord’s glory showing through you? Glory Belongs to God”

“Not unto us, O Lord, not unto us, But to Your name give glory, Because of Your mercy, And because of Your truth.”

The psalmist reminds us that we are to give God the glory or praise because He is God, not a lifeless idol (vv. 2-8). We are to give Him glory because of the blessings He has given us (vv. 9-15) and because He created the earth for us to enjoy (v. 16).

The Glory of God’s Presence

Sometimes the word glory actually refers to the presence of the Lord, as when Moses and Aaron said to the Israelites that “in the morning you shall see the glory of the Lord” (Exodus 16:7). David wrote, “The heavens declare the glory of God” (Psalm 19:1) and begged to see God’s glory. When Solomon dedicated the temple, God’s glory came in the form of a cloud and filled the house (2 Chronicles 5:13, 14).

When the angel announced the birth of Jesus to the shepherds, the glory of the Lord shone around them (Luke 2:9). The Lord’s Prayer ends with “For Yours is the kingdom and the power, and the glory forever” (Matthew 6:13).

God’s Glory in Christians

Ever since the Holy Spirit fell upon those first believers in the Upper Room, God’s glory has been manifested through Christians. Jesus said, “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven (Matthew 5:16).” Our capacity to reflect God’s glory is based upon the degree of our submission to the Holy Spirit and the Word of God. We are to serve the Lord with gladness and let people see His mercy and His love by the way we live, work, and worship – not for our glory but for His. “By this My Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit; so, you will be My disciples (John 15:8). Peter says believers who never saw Jesus rejoice with “joy inexpressible and full of glory “(1 Peter 1:8).

God’s Glory to Come

We know that Jesus sits at the right hand of God and will soon come back “in a cloud with power and great glory” (Luke 21:27). One day we will walk in the Lord’s presence and see the glory for ourselves. “For the Son of Man will come in the glory of His Father with His angels, and then He will reward each according to his works” (Matthew 16:27). Once the New Jerusalem is built there will be no need for the sun to illuminate those who live there, because the Son Himself, in His great glory, will be the light. What glory!

Prayer and God’s Word is the Answer to Our Situation Today

This interesting prayer was given in Kansas, USA, at the opening session of their Senate. The prayer was given by minister Joel Wright. Here is the prayer: “Heavenly Father, we come before you today to ask your forgiveness and to seek your direction and guidance.

1. We have lost our spiritual equilibrium and reversed our values.

2. We have ridiculed the absolute truth of Your Word and called it pluralism. 3. We have worshipped other gods and called it multiculturalism.

4. We have endorsed perversion and called it alternate lifestyle. 5. We have exploited the poor and called it the lottery.

6. We have rewarded laziness and called it welfare. 7. We have killed our unborn and called it choice.

8. We have shot abortionists and called it justifiable.

9. We have neglected to discipline our children and called it building self-esteem. 10. We have abused power and called it politics.

11. We have embezzled public funds and called it essential expenses. 12. We have institutionalized bribery and called it suites of office.

13. We have coveted our neighbours’ possessions and called it ambition.

14. We have polluted the air with profanity and pornography and called it freedom of expression.

15. We have ridiculed the time-honoured values of our forefathers and called it enlightenment.

Search us O God and know our hearts today.”

When this prayer was released, the Central Christian Church in Kansas logged more than 5,000 phone calls with only 47 being negative. The church is now receiving requests for this prayer from around the world.

Comment by Barry Borthistle: Luke 1:37 – NOTHING IS IMPOSSIBLE WITH GOD. The word “nothing” is used 75 times in the New Testament and has 12 different meanings. The meaning in Luke 1:37 is the Greek word Rhema which is the word for the revealed Word of God (John 15:7). This is the only place in the New Testament where the word nothing is Rhema – impossible (impotent or weak). We all know that without faith it is impossible to please God (Hebrews 11:6).

IT IS A TIME FOR SPIRITUAL FITNESS, PRAYER, AND THE POWER OF HOPE.

In my new book, “Your Body is God’s Temple” I deal with prayer in Chapter 5.

Conclusion: Something to Think About

If you are not convinced of the importance of biblical prophecy, please consider:

1. The Word of God is approximately 30% prophetic.

2. Some scholars say that almost every book in the Bible has some prophetic reference. From my studies I suggest a list of the major ones here:

Old Testament New Testament

1. Psalms 1. Matthew

2. Isaiah 2. Mark

3. Jeremiah 3. Luke

4. Ezekiel 4. 2 Timothy

5. Amos

6. Daniel

7. Habakkuk

8. Zechariah

9. Zephaniah

Revelation

3. John, when writing the Book of Revelation, states very clearly in Revelation 1:3 that we are blessed if we do three things:

Read prophecy
Hear prophecy
Obey prophecy

4. It is also interesting that John uses the word ‘blessed’ which means well off/happy/supremely blessed seven times in the Book of Revelation (seven is the number of perfection or completeness).

Revelation 1:3
Revelation 14:13
Revelation 16:15
Revelation 19:9
Revelation 20:6
Revelation 22:7
Revelation 22:14

THE BUILDING OF THE THIRD TEMPLE IN JERUSALEM

Scripture is very clear that a third Jewish Temple will be built in Jerusalem during the Tribulation Period.

According to CBN, all of the utensils and other components in the new temple are now ready to implement. There has not been a red heifer in Jerusalem since the Temple was destroyed in 70 AD. CBN reports that there are now red heifers in Jerusalem.

Another stunning sign of End Times….Scripture makes it clear that the New World Order includes a one-world religious system plus a one-world government and one-world economic system.

ABU DHABI’S STUNNING NEW MULTI-FAITH COMPLEX IS A MOSQUE, SYNAGOGUE AND CHURCH. This new temple has now been completed as of December 3, 2023. The United Arab Emirates inaugurated the “Abrahamic Family House”, an interfaith complex housing a mosque, a church and the Gulf Arab state’s first ever purpose-built synagogue.

The structure draws inspiration from the three Abrahamic faiths and is meant to encapsulate their similarities.

One Final Thought: If Jesus Christ were to return today, and He could, the New World Order would officially begin.

Shalom to you all, Barry Borthistle

WHATEVER HAPPENED TO REPENTANCE

Thu, 03 Aug 2023 18:54:35 GMT

Google "The Marvelous Benefits of Repentance" by David Wilkerson

Barry Borthistle

bborthistle@shaw.ca

solomonsporchteachining.com

“ You rarely hear the word mentioned in most churches today – even in Baptist, Pentecostal or Evangelical circles. Pastors nowadays seldom call for their congregations to sorrow over sin – to mourn and grieve over wounding Christ by their wickedness .” ~~ David Wilkerson.

(Google David Wilkerson for complete sermon)

Revival at Asbury University

As I understand the revival was started by one young man, repenting. Repentance is a change of mind and behavior, just like occurred at Calvary Chapel; ie. JESUS REVOLUTION movie, a must-see in my opinion.

“The depth of our repentance will determine the depth of our revival”. ~~ Frank Bartleman

“Only 10% of Churches today are preaching about repentance or sin.” ~~ Barna Research

If you are interested in a spiritual revival, I suggest “Why Revival Tarries” by Leonard Ravenhill. Here are a few quotes from his book:

“ You never have to advertise a fire. Everyone comes running when there’s a fire. Likewise, if your church is on fire, you will not have to advertise it. The community will already know it. ”

“The only reason we don’t have revival is because we are willing to live without it !”

“ When I read about Charles G. Finney winning his thousands and his hundreds of thousands of souls to Christ, then I picked up a book and read the messages of Charles G. Finney and the message of Jonathan Edwards on ‘Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God’, and I said, ‘no wonder men trembled; no wonder they fell in the altars and cried out in repentance and sobbed their way to the throne of grace .’”

“ When is a revival needed? When carelessness and unconcern keep the people asleep. ” ~~ Billy Sunday

You see, if there is no admitting to sin, there can be no repentance: “For Godly sorrow worketh repentance to salvation not to be repented of…” (II Cor. 7:10.) If you’re not willing to acknowledge you’re wrong, you’re saying you don’t need to repent. You see yourself as having done no wrong in the sight of God.

“If we want revivals, we must revive our reverence of the Word of God”. ~~ Charles Spurgeon

WHAT DOES THE WORD OF GOD SAY ABOUT REPENTANCE?

The very first word of the very first sermon was REPENTANCE:

· John the Baptist ; Matt. 3:1,2

· Jesus Christ; Matt. 4:17

· Peter – in the new church; Acts 2:38

Jesus Christ continued to teach repentance; Luke 13:3; Mark 1:14,15

Paul, likewise in Acts 17:30 and II Cor. 12:20,21

WHY IS THIS SO IMPORTANT? Because our bodies are the Temple of God; I Cor. 3:16,17. What an awesome thought!!

“ Repentance does not cease at the time of salvation ”. ~~ Dr. Martyn-Lloyd Jones

“ The answer to all of our problems and concerns are found in the Bible, if we would only read and obey it ”. ~~ President Ronald Reagan

THE CHRISTIAN BIBLICAL WORLDVIEW

A recent survey says: “The Church Better Repent and Revive and soon.” ~~ David Wheaton

A true follower of Christ has the indwelling Holy Spirit to discern that the professed Bible-believing church in America has drifted. The lights go down and the “worship arts team” spends 30 minutes or more performing the audience into an emotional, quasi=-spiritual experience. Then the pastor takes the “stage’ and roams, gesticulates and emotes his (or her) way through a 25 minutes “sermon’ of life-coaching with personal stories, humor, props and a few quasi-Christian principles mixed in.

So it makes perfect sense why well-known researched Dr. George Barna finds that…

· Only 2 % of professed Christian parents have a Biblical worldview

· Just one-half of self-described Christian parents accept the Bible as the true and trustworthy words of God

· One out of every four do not bother to praise, worship or thank God during a typical week.

· This is a death spiral for the church, families, and even our country. And yet, Christ continues to build His church – not necessarily the visible brick and mortar church but the invisible remnant of true believers. Matt. 16:18,19

~~ Dr. George Barna, director of research and cofounder of the cultural Research Center at Arizona Christian University, exhorting each of us to examine ourselves, repent and revive!

THE MARVELOUS BENEFITS OF REPENTANCE

~~ David Wilkerson, November 11, 1995

“ I want to talk to you about two very important aspects of repentance:

1. What it requires

2. Its marvelous benefits

The longer I walk with Jesus, the more I am convinced repentance is not just for sinners, but also for believers. It is not simply a one-time thing, but something God’s people are called to do until Jesus returns.

And I hope to show you that every Christian who maintains a repentant attitude brings upon his life God’s special attention. Indeed, repentance opens up something to us that nothing else can. If we walk before the Lord with a repentant heart, we will be inundated with incredible blessings!

But for now, I want to tell you what I believe is absolutely necessary to obtaining a repentant heart. First of all, this type of heart is soft and pliable. It responds to and acts upon Godly reproof. It is tender, easily molded by the Holy Spirit.

But the number one characteristic of a repentant heart, its absolute foundation is a readiness to acknowledge guilt! It is a willingness to accept blame for wrongdoing, to say, “I am the one Lord. I have sinned!”.

You see, if there is not admitting to sin, there can be no repentance. “For Godly sorrow worketh repentance to salvation not to be repented of.” II Cor. 7:10

If you’re not willing to acknowledge you’re wrong, you’re saying you don’t need to repent. You see yourself as having done no wrong in the sight of God.

Daniel had a repentant heart. He was a righteous man of prayer and devotion who lived so holy, you wouldn’t expect to find him repenting. But Daniel’s heart was sensitive to sin – and he too identified with the people’s horrible sins, “O Lord, to us belongeth confusion of face, to our kings, to our princes, and to our father, because we have sinned against thee….We have sinned and committed iniquity, and done wickedly and have rebelled, even by departing form thy precepts and from thy judgments: neither have we hearkened unto thy servants the prophets, which spake in thy name to our kings, our princes, and our fathers, and to all people of the land.” Daniel 9:5-10

Daniel repeatedly used the words: we, us, our. He was saying, in essence: ‘every one of us is affected’!

The key to it all is found in the verse, Daniel 9:20: “and while I was speaking and praying and confessing my sin and the sin of my people Israel, the presenting my supplication before the Lord my God for the holy mountain of my God.”

Daniel said, “Oh God, deal with me while You’re dealing with Your people. If there is any iniquity in my heart, bring it out. Show it to me ”!

CLOSING THOUGHTS:

Is there a distinction between revival and awakening?

RENEWAL: When God touches the heart of a single individual

REVIVAL: When God touches a community of faith

AWAKENING: When the wider society is impacted

Description of Revival – what does it look like? Isaiah 6:1-8

1. Our need for a fresh touch from God (v. 1a)

2. God as He really is (v. 1b-4)

3. Our sinfulness and need for cleansing (v. 5)

4. God’s gracious provision (v. 6,7)

5. The Mission (v. 8a)

6. We respond with joyful obedience (v. 8b)

Characteristics of Revival

1. It raises the esteem of Jesus

2. Satan’s kingdom suffers (genuine repentance)

3. Men and women will have a greater response to Scripture

4. Men and women will see more clearly spiritual truth and error

5. There will be a new sense of love towards God and others

Remember … THE Holy Spirit is the convictor of sin. John 16:8.

“Revival is the major means that God has used to advance the cause of the Gospel.” ~~ Jonathan Edwards.

Barry Borthistle

bborthistle@shaw.a

solomonsporchteaching.com

1/2023

Why God is A Covenant God

dougmorneau@marzany.com (Doug Morneau) — Thu, 03 Aug 2023 04:20:08 GMT

And Why He Never Break His Covenant

WHY IS GOD A COVENANT GOD

AND

NEVER BREAKS HIS COVENANT?

Prepared by Barry Borthistle

God’s covenants are always unconditional and undeserving.

Again and again there is a prophetic call to recognize the hand of God, who will never cancel His covenant but whose unshakable purpose is that Israel shall be the witness that manifests His sovereign glory to all the nations. Shalom and berith (“covenant”) are practically synonymous. Shalom refers to the state of those who participate in the harmonious society. Berith refers to the community and all the privileges and obligations that community implies. Covenant and shalom go hand in hand; God’s community must have one to experience the other.

2 WHY STUDY THE COVENANTS?

James Garlow explains: “Life-changing” is a very strong term. We are inclined to use it too often, such as when we sometimes promise that hearing a special speaker will be a life-changing experience. But this isn’t always the case; not everything that is reported to be life-changing really is. However, the story of the covenant is an exception. Here I use the term “life-changing” carefully and guardedly, for

what you will read concerning the covenant will alter your thinking and significantly alter your life. The word “covenant” in its Hebrew form is used nearly 300 times in the Bible. It comes from the root word meaning “to cut”. The best way to find out why the covenant is so important is to take a look at what God had in mind from the start. The story of the covenant begins with God’s heart being

broken when He saw the destitution and destruction of humanity. He never designed His creation to be in such disarray and chaos. As He looked from heaven to earth, He observed that the ancient people (the people in Abram’s time, 2,000 years before Christ) participated in covenant-making ceremonies. They did this with full knowledge that once having committed themselves to each other, everything they had belonged to each other. They intentionally would release their individual identities in order to have a merged identity. God knew the covenant would be an effective way to reach humanity and help them understand the intensity of His love for them. By making a covenant with humanity, God would bind Himself to them and ask them to bind themselves to Him. Doing this would mean that everything He had would belong to them – all the blessings of heaven would be theirs.

What is it about the covenant that is so life changing? From my studies I discovered some remarkable insights. For one thing, understanding the steps of the covenant-making ceremony and its role in human history causes many Bible verse to spring to life with meanings that may not have been previously considered. Looking closer, I found that in many ways the covenant is the foundation of

our faith and the epicenter of what we understand about our relationship with God. Upon it is based our understanding

of salvation, holiness, healing, worship, deliverance and sanctification. The covenant is truly foundational and discovering this can be exhilarating – even life changing.”

The kingdom of heaven and the kingdom of God are explained as secrets or mysteries; Mark 4:11; Luke 8:10; Matthew 13:11. The word ‘mystery’ is only found in the New Testament. Greek def = imposed silence; the secret of spiritual truth. There are 14 mysteries explained in the New Testament. The mysteries of God can only be understood through the power of the Holy Spirit which only believers in Jesus

Christ possess. Perhaps a study of the covenants of God will assist us in understanding the love and mercy of our Heavenly Father.

4. What is our responsibility to understand these mysteries or secrets? I Cor. 4:1,2

v. 1 – we are to consider (to take into account of inventory, to think upon, a choice - we are servants (managers, overseers, fiscal agents)

v.2 – we are stewards (subordinates, under oarsman) of the mysteries of God; we are to be found faithful

Paul urged the Corinthians to think of him, Peter and Apollos not as leaders of parties, but as servants of Christ. A servant does what his master tells him to do. We must do what God tells us to do in the Bible and through His Holy Spirit. Daily God confronts us with needs and

opportunities that challenge us to do what we know is right. How are we to carry out our task of servants and stewards? Through the power of the Holy Spirit.

The Holy Spirit is a gift from The Father received at the time of conversion –

Acts 2:38

Two Greek words relating to the power of the Holy Spirit:

‘exousia’ = denotes freedom of choice, action, privilege, competent, influence

Matt. 28:18 – Jesus had all power

Acts 5:4 - Ananias and Sapphira made a choice

Romans 13:1-3 – given by God to government

‘dunumis’ = special miraculous power, abundance, strength, mighty works. Jesus said that we will see the Kingdom of God with ‘dunumis’ power. Mark 9:1

Present, not the future

Jesus Christ’s last words, Acts 1:7,8

‘dunumis’ power to excel in financial giving; II Cor. 8:1-7; verse 3 key verse

It is the ‘dunumis’ power of God that saves I Cor. 1:18

Paul’s preaching was the ‘dunumis’ power of the Holy Spirit I Cor. 2:4,5

The Kingdom of God is not in word but in the ‘dunumis’ power of the Holy Spirit. I Cor. 4:19,20

“For God has not given us a spirit of fear but of ‘dunumis’ power and of love and of a sound mind” II Tim. 1:7 The English word ‘dynamite’ comes from ‘dunumis’. I believe an understanding of a covenant God helps us understand this ‘dunumis’ power.

God chose to work through people beginning with Adam and Eve Gen 1-3

God‘s incredible love and mercy proven in the many covenants that He has made with mankind is beyond human understanding. A great example is found in Ex. 3, Moses and the burning bush. God said “I have surely seen the oppression of my people in Egypt, I have heard their cry, I know their sorrows, I will come down and bring you into a land flowing with milk and honey ." Deuteronomy chapter 1 tells us that the trip would take 11 days but probably due to their lack of obedience, it took 40 years!

THE POWER OF REPENTANCE AND THE INCREDIBLE LOVE OF GOD

In the Old Testament, the Hebrew definition for repentance is ‘to be sorry, to pity, to console, to avenge oneself, comfort oneself’. In the New Testament Greek, the definition is reversed ‘to think differently, to re-consider, reverse a decision, reformation;. Reformation being the

seat of moral reflection, implying a change. In the Old Testament, the majority of the references refer to God’s repentance, not man’s. Unlike man, who under the conviction of sin feels genuine remorse and sorrow, God is free from sin but yet He relents or repents or changes His dealings with men when 3 things occur:

1. repentance

2. obedience

3. faith ~ ~ Bruce Waltke

AMAZING TRUTH

A change in man’s conduct can bring about a change in God’s judgment in the Old Testament. (Bruce Waltke)

Gen. 6:6: God gave man 120 years to repent and then God repented (was sorry for creating us). But for the obedience of Noah, we would not be here

Ex. 32:14: Moses reminded God of the covenant He made with Abraham. After the rebellion with the golden calf, God saw how stiff-necked they were and wanted to consume them but relented after.

Exercising the authority of the Covenant (James Garlow)

How do we take the covenant teaching and apply it to our lives? Understanding the covenant and living in its authority is fundamental to the victorious Christian life. Grasping the significance of the covenant is imperative if the Church is to carry on the work of Jesus. Our need for authority – the purpose of the Church is to continue what Jesus started. One problem with the Church today is that it does many things Jesus doesn’t call it to do. But if we’re going to do what Jesus did, we need to understand authority. In Luke 10:19 Jesus said, “ Behold, I have given you authority to tread on serpents and scorpions and over all the power of the enemy and nothing will insure you .” Jesus said this to 70 relatively new Christians. They had been believers for less than three years, possibly less han that; yet He sent them out to change the world.

THREE REQUIREMENTS IN WHICH ALMIGHTY GOD SEEMS TO RESPOND FROM GENESIS TO REVELATION

All three are a choice mankind has to make because God created us with freewill.

1. Repentance – Jesus’ first sermon subject, Matt. 4:17; Peter’s first sermon in the church Acts 2:39

2. Obedience – “is better than sacrifice” Samuel said to King Saul in I Samuel 15:22-24. Rebellion or disobedience is as the sin of rebellion.

Wow.

3. Faith – “without faith it is impossible (impotent) to please God” Heb. 11:6. But remember, faith without works is dead (corpse) James 2:14-2

All three – repentance, obedience and faith are very clearly revealed by God in His covenant love for us. Praise the

Lord!

10 THE MYSTERIES OF GOD

1. Mysteries of the Kingdom of Heaven Matt. 13:11

2. Mysteries of the Kingdom of God: Luke 8:10; Mark 4:15; I Cor. 4:5; Rev. 10:7; Mark 9:1

3. Mystery when Israel accepts Christ as Messiah Romans 15:24-26

4. Mystery of Salvation: Romans 16:25-27; Eph. 3:3,4, 9; 6:19; Col. :26,27;4:3

5. Mystery of wisdom of God I Cor. 2:7

6. Mystery of the Second Coming of Jesus Christ I Cor. 15:51

7. Mystery of the Will of God Eph. 1:9

8. Mystery of Christ and the Church, His Bride, in the Context of marriage Eph. 5:32

9. Mystery of Christian fellowship in the context of Knowing God and Christ Col. 2:2

10. Mystery of lawlessness in context of great apostasy in End times II Thess. 2:7

11. Mystery of faith I Tim. 3:9

12. Mystery of godliness I Tim. 3:16

13. Mystery of seven stars Rev. 1:20

14. Mystery of Babylon Rev. 17:5, 7

Judges 2:18: God, despite Israel’s unfaithfulness, by not listening to the judges, repented against further judgment (I Samuel 15:35.)

God repented – was sorry that he had made Saul king over Israel with the reason being Saul was not obedient (v. 22, 23)

II Samuel 24:16 When the angel stretched his hand over Jerusalem to destroy it because of David’s sin, but David repented (v. 10) and changed the mind of God

I Chronicles 21:15 God sent an angel to destroy Jerusalem after 70,000 had died from a plague but again because of the repentance of David, God changed His mind. Wow.

Jeremiah 26:17-19 The wise men remembered the words of the prophet Micah (Micah 3:12), similar to the words Jeremiah spoke. When Micah called the people to repent, they did not kill him but turned from their wickedness. Although the people did not kill Jeremiah because of this story, they missed the main point – that the application of the story was for them. They spared Jeremiah, but they did

not spare themselves by repenting of their sins. As yourecall a great story of the Bible, ask how it can be applied to your life.

Amos 7:3; 6 In the context of 1) vision of locusts, v. 1-3 and 2) vision of fire v. 4-6, twice Amos was shown a view of Israel’s impending punishment and his immediate response was to pray that God would spare Israel. Prayer is a powerful privilege. Amos’ prayers saved the nation and changed the mind of God.

Jonah 3:1,2 Jonah had ignored God and rebelled against him but God still showed him compassion. When we ignore God, he may punish us, but he will offer compassion and forgiveness if we turn from our sins and obey him. Jonah ran away form God, but he was given a second chance to participate in God’s work. You may feel you are disqualified from serving him because of past mistakes.

But serving God is not an earned position. None of us qualified for God’s service, but he asks us to be a part of his work. You may yet have another chance. Jonah was to preach only what God told him – a message of doom to the most powerful city in the world. This was

not the most desirable assignment, but those who bring God’s Word to others should not let society, social pressures or fear of people dictate their words. They are called to preach God’s message and his truth, no matter how unpopular it may be.

Verse 3 The Hebrew text makes no distinction between the city proper (the walls of which were only about eight miles in circumference, accommodating a population of about 175,000 people) and the administrative district of Nineveh which was about 30 to 60 miles across

Verses 4, 5 God’s message is for everyone. Despite the wickedness of the Ninevite people, they were open to God’s message and repented immediately. If we simply proclaim what we know of God, we may be surprised at how many people will listen.

Verse 10 The heathen people of Nineveh believed Jonah’s message and repented. What a miraculous effect God’s works had on these evil people! Their repentance stood in stark contrast to Israel’s stubbornness. The people of Israel heard many messages from the prophets but they refused to repent. The people of Nineveh only needed to hear God’s message once. Jesus said that at the Judgment Day, these

Ninevites will rise up to condemn the Israelites for their failure to repent (Matt. 12:39-41). It is not the hearing of God’s Word that pleases him, but an obedient response to it.

Joel 2:12-17 The Lord urges Joel to call for repentance and if man obeys, the Lord will repent of judgment and replace with a blessing

II Chron. 7:12-22

God’s Intent for us includes our response:

Months, maybe years had passed since Solomon’s prayer of dedication (chapter 6) Several other building projects had been completed after the Temple (7:11; 8:1). After all this time God told Solomon that he had heard his prayer. How often do we look for immediate answers to our prayers and when nothing happens, wonder if God has heard us? God does hear, and we must trust that he will answer at the

proper time. In chapter 7:14,15, Solomon asked god to make provisions for the people when they sinned. God answered with four conditions for forgiveness:

1) humble yourself by admitting your sins

2) pray to God, asking for forgiveness

3) search for God continually and

4) turn from sinful habits.

True repentance is more than talk – it is changed behavior. Whether we sin individually, as group, or as a nation, following these steps will lead to forgiveness. When we are in need, there may be no one with whom we can talk or we may be afraid to share our need with another person. God assures Solomon, however, that he will not lack assistance when he comes to God in humility, seeking help. God promises to listen to every prayer offered in the right attitude. God plainly set forth certain conditions for Solomon to meet if he wanted the kingdom to continue. If he followed God, Solomon and his descendants would prosper; if he did not, he and the nation would be destroyed. In Deut. 27 and 28, these conditions were outlined before all the people.

But sin is deceptively attractive and Solomon eventually turned from God and his descendants lost more of his kingdom. Following God brings benefits and rewards. Turning away from him brings suffering, punishment and ultimately destruction. Today, God’s conditions are just as clear as they were in Solomon’s day. Will you choose to obey God and live? Soon after Solomon’s reign, the Temple was ransacked

(12:9).

It is difficult for us to imagine that such a great and wise king could become corrupted by idols. But even today idols lure us into their traps. When we deliberately bring anything into our lives that rivals God’s proper place, we have taken the first step toward moral and spiritual decay.

New Testament

The instruction seems to be placed, like in the Old Testament, on the choice of man. Because of the coming of Christ and the New Covenant, there does not seem to be any Biblical evidence that man’s repentance will change the mind of God. Because God has given us everything He can through His son, God is satisfied with the sacrifice. Matthew (11:20-24). Tyre, Sidon, and Sodom were ancient cities with a longstanding reputation for wickedness (Gen. 18:19; Ez. 27:28). Each had been destroyed by God for its evil. The people of Bethsaida, Chorazin and Capernaum saw Jesus firsthand and yet they stubbornly refused to repent of their sins and believe in him. Jesus said that if

some of the wickedest cities in the world had seen him, they would have repented. Because Bethsaida, Chorazin and Capernaum saw Jesus and didn’t believe, they would suffer greater punishment than the wicked cities who didn’t see Jesus. Similarly, those nations and cities that have churches on every corner and Bibles in every home will have not excuse on Judgment Day if they do not repent and

believe.

Key Point: God in His incredible love and mercy has given us by grace the New Covenant through His precious Son, Jesus Christ.

Matthew chapter 12:38-42

The Pharisees were asking for another miracle, but they were not sincerely seeking to know Jesus. Jesus knew they had already seen enough miraculous proof to convince them that he was the Messiah, if they would just open their hearts. But they had already decided not to believe in him, and more miracles would not change that. Many people have thought, “If I could just see a real miracle, then I could really believe in God.”

But Jesus’ response to the Pharisees applies to us. We have plenty of evidence of Jesus’ death, resurrection and ascension and

centuries of his work in the lives of believers around the world. Instead of looking for additional evidence or miracles, accept what God has already given and move forward. He may use your life as evidence to reach another person.

Jonah was a prophet sent to the Assyrian city of Nineveh (see the book of Jonah). Because Assyria was such a cruel and warlike nation, Jonah tried to run from his assignment and ended up spending three days in the belly of a great fish. When he got out, he grudgingly went to Nineveh, preached God’s message and saw the city repent. By contrast, when Jesus came to His people, they refused to

repent. Here He is clearly saying that His resurrection would prove He is the Messiah. Three days after His death He would come back to life, just as Jonah was given a new chance at life after three days in the fish.

Verses 41,42 - In Jonah’s day, Nineveh was the capital of the Assyrian empire, and it was as powerful as it was evil (Jonah 1:2). But the entire city repented at Jonah’s preaching. The Queen of Sheba traveled far to see Solomon, king of Israel and learn about his great wisdom (I Kings 10:1-10). These Gentiles recognized the truth about God when it was presented to them, but the religious leaders ignored the truth even though it stared them in the face.

II Cor. 12:20,21 - After reading this catalog of sins, it is hard to believe that these are the people Paul said were enriched with “every spiritual gift and power for doing his will”

(I Cor. 1:7) - Paul feared that the practices of wicked Corinth had invaded the congregation and he wrote sternly in hope that they would straighten up their lives before he arrived. We must live differently than unbelievers, not letting secular society dictate how we are to treat others. Don’t let culture invade your practices at church.

(Matt. 3:2) - John the Baptist urges repentance, “for the kingdom of Heaven is at hand”, which is a mystery to unbelievers.

(Mark 6:7-13) - the vital importance and power of repentance. The very first message by Peter in the church was repentance in Acts 2:38, and the message continued in Acts 3:19; 8:22; 17:30; 26:20. The first message of Jesus Christ on earth was repentance; Matt. 4:17. Repentance has and always will be a way for man to come back to God but the New Covenant is God’s final offer to mankind.

Hebrews 7:15-22

Verses 20-22 - Jesus Christ will not repent like His father did in the Old Testament, because He has become the surety (guarantor) of the better covenant. There is nothing more to offer and repentance is man’s only hope. Oh the supernatural, incredible love and mercy of God!!

The dynamite power of God’s kingdom, power and glory is ours. Matt. 6:13

Key Point: However we are not released until we release (forgive). Matt. 6:14,15

Jesus gives a startling warning about forgiveness: if we refuse to forgive others, he will also refuse to forgive us. Why? Because when we don’t forgive others, we are denying our common ground as sinners in need of God’s forgiveness. God’s forgiveness of sin is not the direct

result of our forgiving others, but it is based on our realizing what forgiveness means (Eph. 4:32). How forgiven would you be if God’s forgiveness were based on the way you forgive others? It is easy to ask God for forgiveness, but difficult to grant it to others. Whenever

we asks God to forgive us for sin, we should ask ourselves, “Have I forgiven the people who have hurt or wronged

me?”

THE ADAM COVENANT

“It is of vital importance for a right understanding of much in God’s Word to observe the relation which Adam sustained to his posterity. Adam was not only the common parent of mankind, but he was also their federal head and representative. The whole human race was placed on probation or trial in Eden. Adam acted not for himself alone, but he transacted for all who were to spring from him. Unless this basic fact be definitely apprehended, much that ought to be relatively clear to us will be shrouded in impenetrable mystery. Yea, we go further, and affirm that, until the federal headship of Adam and God’s covenant with him in that office be actually perceived, we are without the key to God’s dealings with the human race, we are unable to discern man’s relation to the divine law, and we appreciate not the fundamental principles upon which the atonement of Christ proceeded. When Adam stood in Eden as a responsible being before God, he stood there as a federal head, as the legal representative of all his posterity. Hence, when Adam sinned, all for whom he was

standing are accounted as having sinned; when he fell, all whom he represented fell; when he died, they died. So too was it with Christ. When He came to this earth, He, too, stood in a federal relationship to His own people; and when He became obedient unto death, all for whom He was acting were accounted righteous; when He rose again from the dead, all whom He represented rose with Him; when He ascended on high, they were regarded as ascending with Him. “For as in Adam all die, even so in Christ shall all be made alive” (I Cor. 15:22)” ~ ~ A.W. Pink

God created man as a sinless human being in a sinless, perfect environment (the Garden of Eden - Gen. 1) but with the power of

choice, Genesis 3.

“We all have the right to choose…

We all have the right not to choose…

But none of us have the right to choose the

consequences of our choices…

However, not to choose is to choose”

The second covenant was with Noah in Genesis 8 and 9 “The general establishment of God’s covenant with this new world, and the extent of that covenant, v. 9,10. Here observe:

1) that God is graciously pleased to deal with man in the way of a covenant, wherein God greatly magnifies his condescending favour and greatly encourages man’s duty and obedience, as a reasonable and gainful service.

2) that all God’s covenants with man are of his own making: ‘I, behold, I.’ It is thus expressed both to raise our admiration – “Behold and wonder, that though God be high yet he has this respect to man,” and to confirm our assurances of the validity of the covenant – “Behold and see, I make it; I that am faithful and able to make it good.”

3) that God’s covenants are established more firmly than the pillars of heaven or the foundations of the earth, and cannot be disannulled.

4) that God’s covenants are made with covenanters and with their seed; the promise is to them and their children.

5) that those may be taken into covenant with God, and receive the benefits of it, who yet are not capable of re-stipulating, or giving their own consent. For this covenant is made with every living creature, every beast of the earth”

~ ~ Matthew Henry

Comments

The Application Bible
Solomon’s Temple, Kevin Commer

God responds to three actions from mankind:

1. repentance

2. obedience

3. faith

It is God who gives the power to get wealth. Why? That God may establish His covenant. Deut. 8:18-20 “ in times of plenty, it is easy to take credit for your prosperity and begin to feel that your own hard work and cleverness have made you rich. It is easier yet to get so busy collecting and managing your wealth that you soon find God has been pushed right out of your life. But it is God who blesses us with abundance, and it is God who asks us to manage it for him. Don’t forget God in your abundance, or you will eventually lose all you have (8:19)."

Remember that the most valuable things in life – your relationship with God and eternal life – are free” God is a God of abundance.

Gen. 1:1 “beginning” = first fruits Prov. 3:9,10; Malachi 3:8-12

This is not ‘prosperity gospel’. God owns everything.

Psalm 24:12

We do not demand anything of God

This is amazing… in Genesis 7:11, the same word 'windows’ is used as God opens the windows of Heaven and caused it to rain as is used in Malachi 3:10

Windows in the Hebrew = chimney, floodgate

What God requires is obedience Deut. 28:1-14

Key verses: 11 - 14

God is a God of abundance and increase.

Deut. 8:11-17; 8:18-20

8:18 “remember” – dangers of forgetting God when we

think we created wealth

“power” - ability to produce

“wealth” - power – strength – riches

Why? “establish” - confirm

“covenant” – God’s solemn oath

“swore” – write, sign, inscribe

“fathers” – forefathers

v. 19 ; 20 – “obedience” – a covenant, a treaty, an alliance of friendship between God and man.

“obedience is better than sacrifice”. I Sam. 15:22,23

Hence Israel was to remember that it was Yahweh alone who gave her the strength to acquire wealth. Moreover, every blessing she enjoyed was the result of his covenant with her and the outcome of his promise to her forefathers. This lesson for Israel has wide implications for all mankind. Wealth and prosperity can never be regarded as a natural right. They are the gift of God. Since the majority of people in the world lack wealth, those who are wealthy need to beware lest pride in their own achievements possess them and bring about their ruin.

19,20. The section closes on a solemn note. Israel needed to learn that, if she as a nation dishonoured her covenant with Yahweh, she would cease to have a claim upon him and when judgment came at last she need only look to her disobedience and forgetfulness for the reason. Each new generation of Israel needed to grasp this fact and to decide for themselves to be obedient to Yahweh who loved them

and had chosen them for his own inscrutable purposes. Life and death hung upon that decision

J.A. Thompson

Here are two valid reasons of actions the Lord requires of those who manage His economy

1. O.T. Prov. 19:17 – incredible concept – ‘lends’ to be joined with

2. N.T. James 1:26,27 Carl Henry, founding editor of Christianity Today said “these verses are the uneasy conscience of the Christian

Church”.

‘visit” – to visit with help

The word ‘covenant’ is found 281 times in the Old Testament and 23 times in the New. O.T. meaning – a compact in the sense of cutting by

passing between pieces of flesh. Today we would call this a handshake.

‘covenant’ – between nations: a treaty, alliance of friendship. Between individuals: a pledge or agreement. With obligation between a monarch and subjects: a constitution. Between God and man: a covenant accompanied by signs, sacrifices, and a solemn oath that

sealed the relationship with promises of blessing for keeping the covenant and curses of breaking it. Again and again there is a prophetic call to recognize the hand of God, who will never cancel his covenant but whose unshakable purpose is that Israel shall be the witness that manifests His sovereign glory to all the nations. Shalom and berith (“covenant”) are practically synonymous. Shalom refers to the state of those who participate in the harmonious society. Berith refers to the community and all the privileges and obligations that

community implies. Covenant and shalom go hand in had; God’s community must have one to experience the other. New Testament meaning of ‘covenant’ – a disposition, a contract, testament - primarily signifies a disposition of property by will or otherwise. It is the rendering of a Hebrew word meaning a covenant or agreement (from a verb signifying to cut or divide, in allusion to a sacrificial

custom in connection with covenant-making, eg. Gen. 15:10 “divided” Jer. 34:18,19. In contradistinction to the English word “covenant” (lit., a coming together), which signifies a mutual undertaking between two parties or more, each bind himself to fulfill obligations, it does not in

itself contain the idea of joint obligation, it mostly signifies an obligation undertaken by a single person. For instance, in Gal. 3:17 it is used as an alternative to a “promise” (v. 16,17 and 18). God enjoined upon Abraham the rite of circumcision, but His promise to Abraham, here called a covenant, was not conditional upon the observance of circumcision, though a penalty attached to its non-observance.

“All of the covenant procedure provides the cultural setting in God’s relationship with His people is formulated” ~ ~

Bruce Waltke

Major covenants:

1. the Noah covenant

2. the patriarchal covenant – Abraham

3. the Sinai covenant – Moses

4. the Davidic covenant – David

5. the New Testament covenant – Jesus Christ

REMEMBER…

We have the right to choose. We have the right not to choose. But none of us have the right to Choose the consequences of our

Choices…

However, not to choose…Is to choose.

First covenant in the Old Testament

Gen. 6:18; 9:9,11,12,15-17

Noah got right to work when God told him to build the ark. The other people must have been warned about the coming disaster (I Peter 3:20) but apparently they did not expect it to happen. Today things haven’t changed much. Each day thousands of people are warned of God’s inevitable judgment, yet most of them don’t really believe it will happen. Don’t expect people to welcome or accept your message of God’s coming judgment on sin. Those who don’t believe in God will deny his judgment and try to get you to deny God as well. But remember God’s promise to Noah to keep him safe. This can inspire you to trust God for deliverance in the judgment that is sure to come.

KEY POINT: GOD IS A GOD OF LOVE AND MERCY BUT ALSO A GOD OF JUDGMENT AND THE COVENANT IS HIS COVENANT.

V. 22 – NOAH OBEYED. THE POWER OF CHOICE. THE SIGN OF THE FIRST COVENANT WAS THE RAINBOW.

GEN. 9:8-17

8:15-19 THE NEW COMMISSION IT IS STILL NOAH WITH WHOM GOD DEALS. THE WHOLE SCHEME OF SALVATION HAS CENTERED ON HIM; HIS SONS ARE BENEFICIARIES, BUT NOT PARTNERS UNTIL CHAPTER 9. AS ALMOST A SECOND ADAM

(9:1) HE STEPS INTO A VIRGIN WORLD WASHED CLEAN BY JUDGMENT, AND THE SPECTACULAR DELIVERS IN THE ARK IS SEEN AS A MERE PRELIMINARY TO SALVATION PROPER, WHICH IS A NEW CREATION. THE NEW TESTAMENT SEES THE FLOOD AND THE RITE OF BAPTISM AS TWIN EXPRESSIONS OF THIS REALITY (I PET. 3:18-22); THAT IS, OF THE PROVISION OF A WAY THROUGH DEATH INTO LIFE. 8:20-22. THE ACCEPTED SACRIFICE

20. MALACHI 4:2 CONJURES UP THE SHEER PHYSICAL JOY OFRELEASE AFTER CONFINEMENT, BUT NOAH’S FIRST THOUGHT IS GODWARD. HOMAGE, DEDICATION AND ATONEMENT ARE ALL EXPRESSED IN THE BURNT OFFERINGS, THE NEW EARTH IS TO BE GOD’S, IF HE WILL HAVE IT.

GOD’S COVENANT WITH CREATION – GEN. 8:20-22

OUR FIRST THOUGHT SHOULD ALWAYS BE GODWARD. LOOK AT THE MERCY OF GOD. V. 22 HOW MANY OF THE EIGHT PROMISES OF GOD DO WE CONTROL? 9:1 GOD GAVE THE SAME BLESSING TO NOAH THAT HE GAVE TO ADAM.

WHAT A MIGHTY GOD WE SERVE - GOD IS A GOD OF THE SECOND OPPORTUNITY

GOD’S SECOND COVENANT - ABRAHAM

GENESIS 15; KEY VERSE 18

15:16 THE AMORITES WERE ONE OF THE NATIONS LIVING IN CANAAN, THE LAND GOD PROMISED TO ABRAM. GOD KNEW THE PEOPLE WOULD GROW MORE WICKED AND WOULD SOMEDAY NEED TO BE PUNISHED. PART OF THAT PUNISHMENT WOULD INVOLVE TAKING AWAY THEIR LAND AND GIVING IT TO ABRAM’S DESCENDANTS. GOD, IN HIS MERCY, WAS GIVING THE AMORITES PLENTY OF TIME TO REPENT, BUT HE ALREADY KNEW THEY WOULD NOT. AT THE RIGHT TIME, THEY WOULD BE “READY FOR PUNISHMENT”. EVERYTHING GOD DOES IS TRUE TO HIS CHARACTER. HE IS

MERCIFUL, KNOWS ALL AND ACTS JUSTLY – AND HIS TIMING IS PERFECT.

15:17 WHY DID GOD SEND THIS STRANGE VISION TO ABRAM? GOD’S COVENANT WITH ABRAM WAS SERIOUS BUSINESS. IT REPRESENTED AN INCREDIBLE PROMISE FROM GOD AND A HUGE RESPONSIBILITY FOR ABRAM. TO CONFIRM HIS PROMISE, GOD GAVE ABRAM A SIGN – THE SMOKING FIRE-POT AND FLAMING TORCH. GOD TOOK THE INITIATIVE, GAVE THE CONFIRMATION AND FOLLOWED THROUGH ON HIS PROMISES. THE SIGN TO ABRAM WAS A VISIBLE ASSURANCE TO HIM THAT THE COVENANT GOD HAD MADE WAS REAL.

THE SIGN OF THE SECOND COVENANT –

CIRCUMCISION – BLOOD

MENTIONED IN GENESIS 17 THIRTEEN TIMES

17:1 THE LORD TOLD ABRAM: “I AM GOD; THEREFORE OBEY ME AND LIVE AS YOU SHOULD.” GOD HAS THE SAME MESSAGE FOR US TODAY. WE ARE TO OBEY HIM BECAUSE HE IS GOD. THAT IS REASON ENOUGH. IF YOU DON’T THINK THE BENEFITS ARE WORTH IT, CONSIDER FIRST WHO GOD IS – THE

ONLY ONE WHO HAS THE POWER AND ABILITY TO MEET YOUR EVERY NEED.

17:2-4 WHY DID GOD REPEAT HIS COVENANT TO ABRAM? TWICE BEFORE, GOD HAD MENTIONED THIS AGREEMENT (GEN.

12 AND 15). NOW, HOWEVER, GOD WAS BRINGING IT INTO FOCUS AND PREPARING TO CARRY IT OUT. GOD NOW REVEALED TO ABRAM SEVERAL SPECIFIC PARTS OF HIS COVENANT:

1) GOD WOULD MAKE ABRAM THE FATHER OF A MIGHTY NATION;

2) MANY NATIONS AND KINGS WOULD COME FROM HIS DESCENDANTS

3) GOD WOULD CONTINUE TO REVEAL HIMSELF TO THOSE DESCENDING FROM ABRAHAM

4) GOD WOULD GIVE ABRAM’S DESCENDANTS THE LAND OF CANAAN.

17:5 GOD CHANGES ABRAM’S NAME TO ABRAHAM TO REFLECT HIS NEW POSITION AS THE FATHER OF A NATION. FROM THIS POINT ON HE IS ALWAYS REFERRED TO AS ABRAHAM.

17:5-8 GOD WAS MAKING AN AGREEMENT, OR CONTRACT, BETWEEN HIMSELF AND ABRAHAM. THE TERMS WERE VERY SIMPLE. ABRAHAM’S PART WAS TO BELIEVE IN GOD AND OBEY HIM. GOD’S PART WAS TO GIVE HIM HEIRS, PROPERTY, POWER AND WEALTH. MOST CONTRACTS WE MAKE WITH OTHERS ARE EVEN TRADES. WE GIVE SOMETHING AND IN RETURN RECEIVE SOMETHING OF EQUAL VALUE. BUT WHEN

WE MAKE THE AGREEMENT TO BECOME PART OF GOD’S FAMILY, THE BLESSINGS FAR OUTWEIGH WHAT WE MUST GIVE

UP.

17:9,10 WHY DID GOD REQUIRE CIRCUMCISION?

1) AS A SIGN OF OBEDIENCE TO HIM IN ALL MATTERS.

2) AS A SIGN OF BELONGING TO HIS COVENANT PEOPLE. ONCE CIRCUMCISED, THERE WAS NO TURNING BACK. THE MAN WOULD BE IDENTIFIED AS A JEW FOREVER.

3) AS A SYMBOL OF “CUTTING OFF” THE OLD LIFE OF SIN, PURIFYING ONE’S HEART TOWARD GOD AND DEDICATING ONESELF TO GOD AND HIS PROMISES.

4) POSSIBLY AS A HEALTH MEASURE. CIRCUMCISION, MORE THAN ANY OTHER PRACTICE, TENDED TO SEPARATE GOD’S PEOPLE FROM THEIR HEATHEN NEIGHBORS. IN ABRAHAM’S DAY, THIS WAS ESSENTIAL TO DEVELOP THE PURE WORSHIP OF THE ONE TRUE GOD.

GOD’S COVENANT WITH ABRAHAM BEGAN IN GENESIS 12:1-9

AND IN REALITY MADE A COVENANT WITH THE GENTILES

KEY POINT: THE BLESSINGS OF THIS COVENANT CAN BE OURS. GEN. 12:2,3; GAL. 3:26-29

EXAMPLE: TWO COVENANTS GAL. 4:21-31

FIRST EXAMPLE – OBEDIENCE;

SECOND EXAMPLE – DISOBEDIENCE

GOD REMEMBERS HIS COVENANT LEV. 26:42

EXCERPTS FROM DEREK BINDER:

GEN. 12:1-9 ABRAM FOLLOWS THE CALL THE HISTORY OF REDEMPTION, LIKE THAT OF CREATION, BEGINS WITH GOD SPEAKING: THIS, IN A NUTSHELL,

DIFFERENTIATES ABRAM’S STORY FROM HIS FATHER’S. THE CALL TO FORSAKE ALL AND FOLLOW FINDS ITS NEAREST PARALLELS IN THE GOSPELS (WHICH ARE IN SOME WAYS NEARER THE PATRIARCHAL PATTERN THAN WAS THE LAW – GAL 3), AND ABRAM’S EARLY HISTORY IS PARTLY THAT OF HIS GRADUAL DISENTANGLEMENT FROM COUNTRY, KINDRED AND FATHER’S HOUSE, A PROCESS NOT COMPLETED UNTIL THE END

OF CHAPTER 13. THE CALL HAD FIRST BEEN HEARD IN UR (ACTS 7:2-4) AND SOME INTERPRETERS CENSURE ABRAM FOR NOT BREAKING AT ONCE WITH HIS FATHER AND NEPHEW. BUT THE ACCOUNT DOES NOT BRAND HIM A LINGERER LIKE LOT (19:16) AND IT IS REASONABLE TO THINK THAT HE WAS BIDING GOD’S TIME UNTIL THE FAMILY TIES COULD BE HONOURABLY LOOSENED. TO WAIT ON WITHOUT SURRENDERING THE VISION CAN BE AN

EXACTING TASK (IT IS ASKED OF MANY AN INTENDING MINISTER, BUSINESS PERSON, EDUCATOR, DOCTOR, STUDENT, MISSIONARY, ETC.). IN DUE COURSE THE INSTRUCTIONS WERE FULFILLED AND THE OCCASION WAS CELEBRATED BY A RENEWAL OF THE PROMISE. GEN. 13:14-18

KEY POINT: GOD IS NO LESS INTERESTED IN MANKIND ACCEPTING THE NEW COVENANT IN JESUS CHRIST THAN HE WAS IN THE OBEDIENCE OF ABRAHAM

MOSES’ COVENANT

EXODUS 24:1-8 ISRAEL CONFIRMS THE COVENANT

24:6-8 WHY DID MOSES THROW THE BLOOD TOWARD THE PEOPLE AND HOW DID THIS BLOOD “CONFIRM AND SEAL THE COVENANT” GOD HAD MADE WITH THEM? GOD IS THE SOVEREIGN JUDGE OF THE UNIVERSE. HE IS ALSO ABSOLUTELY HOLY. AS THE HOLY JUDGE OF ALL, HE CONDEMNS SIN AND JUDGES IT WORTHY OF DEATH. IN THE OLD TESTAMENT GOD ACCEPTED THE DEATH OF AN ANIMAL AS A SUBSTITUTE FOR THE SINNER. THE ANIMAL’S SHED BLOOD WAS PROOF THAT ONE LIFE HAD BEEN GIVEN FOR ANOTHER. SO ON THE ONE HAND BLOOD SYMBOLIZED THE DEATH OF THE ANIMAL, BUT ON THE OTHER HAND IT SYMBOLIZED THE LIFE THAT WAS SPARED AS A RESULT. OF COURSE THE DEATH OF THE ANIMAL THAT BROUGHT FORGIVENESS IN THE OLD TESTAMENT WAS ONLY A TEMPORARY PROVISION, LOOKING FORWARD TO THE DEATH

OF JESUS CHRIST (HEBREWS 9:9-10:24).

IN THIS CEREMONY THAT MOSES CONDUCTED, HALF THE BLOOD FROM THE SACRIFICED ANIMALS WAS THROWN AGAINST THE ALTAR TO SHOW THAT THE SINNER COULD ONCE AGAIN APPROACH GOD BECAUSE SOMETHING HAD DIED IN HIS PLACE. THE OTHER HALF OF THE BLOOD FROM THE SACRIFICE WAS PLACED IN BOWLS OR BASINS. THIS BLOOD WAS THEN THROWN TOWARD THE PEOPLE TO SHOW THAT THEIR PENALTY FOR SIN HAD BEEN PAID AND THEY COULD BE REUNITED WITH GOD. THROUGH THIS SYMBOLIC ACT GOD’S PROMISES TO ISRAEL WERE REAFFIRMED AND SPIRITUAL LESSONS WERE TAUGHT ABOUT THE FUTURE SACRIFICIAL DEATH (OR ATONEMENT) OF JESUS CHRIST.

EX. 34:10, 12, 15, 27, 28 34:12-14

GOD TOLD THE ISRAELITES NOT TO COMPROMISE WITH THE SINFUL PEOPLE AROUND THEM BUT TO GIVE THEIR ABSOLUTE LOYALTY AND EXCLUSIVE DEVOTION TO HIM. AS WE COMPROMISE, OUR SENSITIVITY TO SIN BECOMES DULLED. ARE YOU BEGINNING TO ACCEPT LOWER STANDARDS

REGARDING THE THINGS YOU DO OR THINK ABOUT? THIS COULD LEAD TO A DOWNHILL SLIDE YOU WON’T BE ABLE TO STOP. THE WAY YOU ACT SHOWS WHERE YOUR TRUE ALLEGIANCE LIES.

V. 28 THE WORDS OF THE COVENANT

– THE TEN COMMANDMENTS

KEY POINT: WESTERN DEMOCRACIES ARE BUILT ON THIS COVENANT. HOWEVER WE ARE QUICKLY PUTTING AWAY FROM THEM AND THE RESULT IS VERY OBVIOUS.

THE COVENANT RENEWED IN MOAB

DEUT. 29: 1,9,12,14,21,25 29:1 AT MOUNT SINAI, 40 YEARS EARLIER, GOD AND ISRAEL HAD MADE A COVENANT (EXODUS 19,20). ALTHOUGH THERE WERE MANY PARTS TO THE COVENANT (READ THE BOOKS OF EXODUS, LEVITICUS, NUMBERS), ITS PURPOSE CAN BE SUMMED UP IN ONE SENTENCE. GOD PROMISED TO BLESS THE ISRAELITES BY MAKING THEM THE NATION THROUGH WHOM THEREST OF THE WORLD COULD KNOW GOD. THE

ISRAELITES PROMISED TO LOVE AND OBEY GOD IN ORDER TO RECEIVE PHYSICAL AND SPIRITUAL BLESSINGS. HERE MOSES REVIEWS THIS COVENANT.

GOD WAS STILL KEEPING HIS PART OF THE BARGAIN (AND HE ALWAYS WOULD) BUT THE ISRAELITES WERE ALREADY NEGLECTING THEIR PART. MOSES RESTATED THE COVENANT TO WARN THE PEOPLE THAT IF THEY DID NOT KEEP THEIR PART OF THE AGREEMENT, THEY WOULD EXPERIENCE SEVERE DISCIPLINE.

29:18 MOSES CAUTIONED THAT THE DAY THE HEBREWS CHOOSES TO TURN FROM GOD, A ROOT WOULD BE PLANTED THAT WOULD PRODUCE BITTER FRUIT. WHEN WE DECIDE TO DO WHAT WE KNOW IS WRONG, WE PLANT AN EVIL SEED THAT BEGINS TO GROW OUT OF CONTROL, EVENTUALLY YIELDING A CROP OF SORROW AND PAIN. BUT WE CAN PREVENT THOSE SEEDS OF SIN FROM TAKING ROOT. IF YOU HAVE DONE SOMETHING WRONG, CONFESS IT TO GOD AND OTHERS IMMEDIATELY. IF THE SEED NEVER FINDS FERTILE SOIL, ITS BITTER FRUIT WILL NEVER RIPEN.

EXCERPTS FROM J.A. THOMPSON

1. ISRAEL EXHORTED TO ACCEPT THE COVENANT (29:1-15)

A HISTORICAL REVIEW (1-9)

THE THIRD ADDRESS OF MOSES IS INTRODUCED AT THIS POINT 1:1; 4:44). MOSES IS THE COVENANT MEDIATOR. YAHWEH COMMANDED MOSES TO MAKE (THE COVENANT) WITH THE PEOPLE OF ISRAEL. THE HEBREW FOR ‘MAKE A COVENANT’ IS LITERALLY ‘CUT A COVENANT’. THE EXPRESSION HAS ANCIENT ASSOCIATIONS WITH THE NEAR EASTERN NON-BIBLICAL TREATY (COVENANT), WHICH WAS RATIFIED IN A CEREMONY WHERE BEASTS WERE SLAIN. THE COVENANT IN THE LAND OF MOAB (1:5;5:2,3) IS CONTRASTED WITH THE COVENANT AT HOREB (1:2). TO JUDGE FROM A COMPARISON OF THE CONTENTS OF DEUTERONOMY 5-26 AND THOSE OF EXODUS 19 – 24, THE TWO WERE CLOSELY RELATED, ALTHOUGH THE

COVENANT OF DEUTERONOMY CONTAINS MANY NEW REGULATIONS.

THE REST OF CHAPTER 29 CONTAINS MANY REMINISCENCES OF THE NEAR EASTERN TREATY PATTERN. IT IS NOT PRESENTED IN A SYSTEMATIC

MANNER BUT IN NARRATIVE FORM. HOWEVER, ELEMENTS OF THE PATTERN ARE CLEARLY DISCERNIBLE, MAKING IT EXTREMELY LIKELY THAT

SOME KIND OF COVENANT CEREMONY UNDERLIES THE EVENTS HERE REPORTED.

14,15. THE COVENANT DEMAND IS HERE EXTENDED TO THOSE WHO WERE YET TO BE BORN. FUTURE GENERATIONS WERE ONE WITH THAT EARLY ISRAEL WHO TOOK THE OATH AT SINAI. THERE IS A GENEALOGICAL CONTINUITY TO THAT COVENANT, NOTBECAUSE GOD’S COVENANT MERCIES ARE AN INALIENABLE FAMILY RIGHT, BUT BECAUSE GOD IS FAITHFUL TO HIS PROMISE TO EXTEND HIS BLESSING TO ALL WHO LOVE HIM AND OBEY HIS COMMANDMENTS.

EACH NEW GENERATION MUST RENEW THE COVENANT FOR ITSELF AND TAKE ITS STAND BEFORE YAHWEH AS DID ISRAEL OF OLD. THEN, HAVING LEARNT AGAIN OF GOD’S SAVING ACTIONS ON THEIR BEHALF AND OF HIS COVENANT STIPULATIONS, THEY ACCEPT THE COVENANT FOR THEMSELVES IN THEIR OWN THIS DAY. THIS LATTER EXPRESSION OCCURS SIX TIMES IN VERSES 2-15. IN LATER YEARS, BY MEANS OF A CEREMONY OF

THIS KIND, THE CONCEPT OF COVENANT WAS KEPT ALIVE AND WAS FOREVER CONTEMPORARY (II COR. 6:2; HEB. 2:3).

AGAIN…. OBEDIENCE!

GOD NEVER BREAKS HIS COVENANT LEVITICUS 26:9,15,25,42,44, 45 26:40-45 WHEN THE ISRAELITES FACED SUFFERING, GOD OFFERED THEM HOPE. ONE KEY TO HOLDING ONTO HOPE IN GOD IS TO MAINTAIN HIS PERSPECTIVE ON ALL OF LIFE WHILE LOOKING AT OUR PRESENT EXPERIENCES. OUR DAY-TO-DAY EXPERIENCES AND HARDSHIPS ARE SOMETIMES OVERWHELMING. UNLESS WE CAN SEE THAT GOD’S PURPOSE IS TO BRING ABOUT CONTINUAL GROWTH IN US, WE MAY DESPAIR. THE HOPE WE NEED IS BEST EXPRESSED IN JEREMIAH 29:11: “FOR I KNOW THE PLANS I HAVE FOR YOU’ SAYS THE LORD. “THEY ARE PLANS FOR GOOD AND NOT FOR EVIL, TO GIVE YOU A FUTURE AND A HOPE.’” TO RETAIN HOPE IN THE MIDST OF SUFFERING SHOWS WE HAVE AN ETERNAL PERSPECTIVE ON OUR PRESENT DIFFICULTIES.

THE DAVID COVENANT

THE WORD ‘COVENANT’ IS MENTIONED 21 TIMES BY DAVID. SOME OF THE KEY REFERENCES REMIND US OF TWO MAJOR THEMES:

1. THE VITAL IMPORTANCE OF OBEDIENCE

2. THE VITAL IMPORTANCE THAT GOD NEVER FORGETS HIS COVENANT PROMISES

PSALM 89:3,28,34,39 89:1

THIS PSALM WAS WRITTEN TO DESCRIBE THE GLORIOUS REIGN OF KING DAVID. GOD HAD PROMISED TO MAKE DAVID THE MIGHTIEST KING ON EARTH AND TO KEEP HIS DESCENDANTS ON THE THRONE FOREVER (II SAM. 7:8-16). BECAUSE JERUSALEM WAS DESTROYED AND KINGS NO

LONGER REIGN THERE, THESE VERSES CAN ONLY LOOK FORWARD PROPHETICALLY TO THE FUTURE REIGN OF JESUS CHRIST, DAVID’S DESCENDANT. VERSE 27 IS A PROPHECY CONCERNING DAVID’S NEVER-ENDING DYNASTY, WHICH WILL BE CONSUMMATED BY CHRIST’S FUTURE REIGN OVER THE

WORLD (REV. 22:5)

89:5 IN THE COURTS OF HEAVEN, A MYRIAD OF ANGELS PRAISE THE LORD. THIS SCENE IS ONE OF MAJESTY AND GRANDEUR TO SHOW THAT GOD IS BEYOND COMPARE. HIS POWER AND PURITY PLACE HIM HIGH ABOVE NATURE AND ANGELS. (DEUT. 33:2; LUKE 2:13; HEBREWS 12:22)

89:34-37 IN LIGHT OF ISRAEL’S CONTINUAL DISOBEDIENCE THROUGHOUT HISTORY, THIS IS AN AMAZING PROMISE. GOD PROMISED THAT DAVID’S DESCENDANTS WOULD ALWAYS SIT ON THE THRONE (89:29) BUT THAT IF THE PEOPLE DISOBEYED, THEY WOULD BE PUNISHED (89:30-32) YET, EVEN THROUGH THEIR DISOBEDIENCE AND PUNISHMENT, GOD WOULD NEVER FAIL TO KEEP HIS PROMISES (89:33). ISRAEL DID DISOBEY, EVIL RAN RAMPANT, THE NATION WAS DIVIDED, EXILE CAME – BUT THROUGH IT ALL, A REMNANT OF GOD’S PEOPLE REMAINED FAITHFUL. CENTURIES LATER, THE MESSIAH ARRIVED, THE ETERNAL KING FROM DAVID’S LINE, JUST AS GOD HAD PROMISED. ALL THAT GOD PROMISES, HE FULFILLS. HE WILL

NOT TAKE BACK EVEN ONE WORD OF WHAT HE SAYS. GOD CAN ALSO BE TRUSTED TO SAVE US AS HE PROMISED HE

WOULD (HEBREWS 6:13-18) GOD IS COMPLETELY RELIABLE.

THE ETERNAL FAITHFULNESS OF GOD PSALM 105:1-10

PSALM 111:5-9

PSALMS 111 – 118 ARE CALLED HALLELUJAH PSALMS, MEANING PRAISE THE LORD AND THEY EXPRESS THE UPLIFTING AND OPTIMISTIC TONE OF THE SONGS. ONE “PRAISE THE LORD” THEME IS THAT GOD NEVER FORGETS HIS COVENANT

EZRA MADE A COVENANT WITH GOD EZRA 10:1-4

KEY POINT: OBEDIENCE TO GOD’S WORD

REPENTANCE ~~ OBEDIENCE ~~ FAITH

IN THIS CASE, REPENTANCE OF IMPROPER MARRIAGES WHY DID EZRA DO THIS? IN OBEDIENCE TO GOD’S WORD EZRA 9:4 ALL SCRIPTURE IS TO BE OBEYED II TIM. 3:16,17

KEY POINT: EZRA READS THE WORD OF GOD NEH. 8:1-6

NEHEMIAH SAID IT BEST IN NEHEMIAH 1:4,5

GETTING BACK TO THE WORD OF GOD WE HEAR A LOT ABOUT THIS TODAY AND RIGHTLY SO. GOD’S WORD IS NOT ONLY THE KEY TO SALVATION AND ETERNAL LIFE BUT ALSO THE KEY TO PRINCIPLES FOR LIVING A GODLY, FAITHFUL LIFE:

1. MARRIAGE

2. RAISING CHILDREN

3. FINANCES (2500 VERSES)

4. CAREER (WORK)

5. RELATIONSHIPS

6. HEALTH – WE ARE THE TEMPLE OF THE HOLY SPIRIT

7. POLITICS, EDUCATION, ETC.

“ALL SCRIPTURE IS GIVEN BY GOD AND IS INSPIRED (DIVINELY BREATHED) SO THAT WE MAY BE FULLY EQUIPPED FOR EVERY GOOD WORK” II TIM. 3:16,17

"THE “WORD” HAS TWO MEANINGS IN THE GREEK:

‘LOGAS’ -= A CONCEPT OR AN IDEA; EXPRESSION OF THOUGHT; A DIVINE EXPRESSION

JOHN 1:5; I TIM. 4:6; II TIM 1:13; I THESS. 1:5; I JOHN 2:7; HEBREWS 4:12; COL. 3:16,17

‘RHEMA” – THE SIGNIFICANCE OF ‘RHEMA’ DISTINCT FROM ‘LOGAS’ IS EXEMPLIFIED IN THE INJUNCTION TO TAKE THE SWORD OF THE SPIRIT WHICH IS THE ‘REVEALED’ WORD OF GOD IN A PERSON EPH. 6:17

HERE THE REFERENCE IS NOT TO THE WHOLE BIBLE BUT TO THE INDIVIDUAL SCRIPTURE WHICH THE HOLY SPIRIT BRINGS OR REVEALS FOR USE IN TIME OF NEED. THAT IS WHY JOSHUA EXPLAINS THE INCREDIBLE VALUE OF MEDITATION AND SPEAKING THE WORD.

JOSHUA 1:7-9

ACTS 2:14; 6:11-13; PETER’S FIRST SERMON

ACTS 13:42; BEGGING FOR WORD OF GOD

ROMANS 10:17,18;

I PETER 1:25 RHEMA

I PETER 1:23 LOGAS

JUDE 17

HERE AGAIN THE REVEALED WORD OF GOD IS GOD’S PROMISE TO US AS A COVENANT GOD.

THE ARK OF THE COVENANT CONTEXT: DEPARTURE FROM SINAI WITH THE CLOUD OF GOD ABOVE THEM; NUMBERS 10:33-36

WHAT WAS IN THE ARK?

1. TEN COMMANDMENTS GOD, THE FATHER

2. MANNA GOD, THE SON

3. AARON’ ROD THAT BUDDED GOD, THE HOLY SPIRIT

CLOUDS – JESUS CHRIST RETURNED TO HEAVEN IN A CLOUD AND WILL RETURN IN A CLOUD AND BELIEVERS WILL BE CAUGHT UP IN A CLOUD. ACTS 1:9-11; I THESS. 4:13-18

GOD IS A GOD OF ORDER

THE CONCEPT HERE IS THAT GOD THE FATHER, GOD THE SON AND GOD THE HOLY SPIRIT ALWAYS GO BEFORE US. AMEN. THE TRINITY AS ALWAYS BEEN THE CREATION STORY. LET “US” (PLURAL) CREATE MAN. GEN. 1:26

STORY OF MOSES’ ROD (STAFF) AND AARON’S ROD THAT BUDDED EXODUS 4:1-5

1. YOU DO NOT PICK UP A SNAKE BY ITS TAIL

2. MOSES USES HIS STAFF TO FOLLOW GOD’S COMMANDMENTS AND TO BRING THE PLAGUES UPON EGYPT

ISRAEL’S HIGH PRIEST.. “FROM AARON, THE FIRST HIGH PRIEST, TO ANANIAS, THE LAST MENTIONED IN THE BIBLE, THE OFFICE OF HIGH PRIEST SPANNED MORE THAN 1,300 YEARS. AS LONG AS THE TABERNACLE OR TEMPLE STOOD, THE HIGH PRIEST WAS THE UNIQUE INDIVIDUAL WHO CARRIED OUT THE MOST HOLY ACT OF WORSHIP. ON THE DAY OF ATONEMENT, THE HIGH PRIEST ALONE ENTERED THE PRESENCE OF GOD IN THE

HOLY OF HOLIES OF THE SANCTUARY TO MAKE ATONEMENT FOR THE SINS OF THE PEOPLE. HE WORE A WHITE LINEN TUNIC COVERED BY A BRILLIANT BLUE ROBE EDGED WITH GOLD BELLS THAT RANG WHENEVER HIS BARE FEET MOVED. ON HIS CHEST WAS A BREAST PIECE WITH 12 PRECIOUS STONES AND ON HIS HEAD A TURBAN AND A GOLDEN CROWN WITH THE WORDS “HOLY TO THE LORD.” THE HIGH PRIESTHOOD WAS HANDED DOWN WITHIN CERTAIN CLANS. AT FIRST, IT WAS OPEN TO ALL DESCENDANTS OF AARON BUT LATER IT WAS LIMITED TO DESCENDANTS OF

ZADOK, THE HIGH PRIEST WHEN SOLOMON BUILT HIS TEMPLE. IN THE SECOND CENTURY B.C. THE HASMONEAN RULERS TOOK OVER THE OFFICE; UNDER HEROD THE GREAT, IT BECAME A POLITICAL APPOINTMENT”

THE BUDDING OF AARON’S ROD, NUMBERS 17

IT WAS A VERY PROPER SIGN TO REPRESENT THE PRIESTHOOD ITSELF, WHICH WAS HEREBY CONFIRMED TO AARON, THAT:

1. IT SHOULD BE FRUITFUL AND SERVICEABLE TO THE CHURCH OF GOD. IT PRODUCED NOT ONLY BLOSSOMS, BUT ALMONDS; FOR THE PRIESTHOOD WAS DESIGNED, NOT ONLY FOR AN HONOUR TO AARON, BUT FOR A BLESSING TO ISRAEL. THUS CHRIST ORDAINED HIS APOSTLES AND MINISTERS THAT THEY SHOULD GO AND BRING FORTH FRUIT AND THAT THEIR FRUIT SHOULD REMAIN. JOHN 15:16

2. THERE SHOULD BE A SUCCESSION OF PRIESTS. HERE WERE NOT ONLY ALMONDS FOR THE PRESENT, BUT BUDS AND BLOSSOMS PROMISING MORE HEREAFTER. THUS HAS CHRIST PROVIDED IN HIS CHURCH THAT A SEED SHOULD SERVE HIM FROM GENERATION TO GENERATION.

3. YET THIS PRIESTHOOD SHOULD NOT BE PERPETUAL, BUT IN PROCESS OF TIME, LIKE THE BRANCHES AND BLOSSOMS OF A TREE, SHOULD FAIL AND WITHER. THE FLOURISHING OF THE ALMOND TREE IS MENTIONED AS ONE OF THE SIGNS OF OLD AGE, ECCL. 12:5. THIS CHARACTER WAS BETIMES PUT UPON THE MOSAIC PRIESTHOOD, WHICH SOON BECAME OLD AND READY TO VANISH AWAY, HEB. 8:13. IT WAS A TYPE AND FIGURE OF CHRIST AND HIS PRIESTHOOD: FOR HE IS THE MAN, THE BRANCH, THAT IS TO BE A PRIEST UPON HIS THRONE, AS IT FOLLOWS (ZECH. 6:12) AND HE WAS TO

GROW UP BEFORE GOD, AS THIS BEFORE THE ARK, LIKE A TENDER PLANT, AND A ROOT OUT OF A DRY GROUND. BISHOP HALL OBSERVES HERE THAT THE TABLE OF THE LAW, THE POT OF MANNA AND AARON’S ROD, WERE PRESERVED TOGETHER IN OR ABOUT THE ARK (THE APOSTLE TAKES

NOTICE OF THEM ALL THREE TOGETHER, HEB. 9:4), TO SHOW TO AFTER-AGES HOW THE ANCIENT CHURCH WAS TAUGHT AND FED AND RULED; AND HE INFERS HOW PRECIOUS THE DOCTRINE, SACRAMENTS AND GOVERNMENT OF THE CHURCH ARE TO GOD AND SHOULD BE TO US. THE ROD OF MOSES WAS USED IN WORKING MANY MIRACLES, YET WE DO NOT FIND THAT THIS WAS PRESERVED, FOR THE KEEPING OF IT WOULD SERVE ONLY TO GRATIFY MEN’S CURIOSITY; BUT THE ROD OF AARON, WHICH CARRIED ITS MIRACLE ALONG WITH IT, WAS CAREFULLY PRESERVED, BECAUSE THAT WOULD BE OF STANDING USE TO CONVINCE MEN’S CONSCIENCES, TO SILENCE ALL DISPUTES ABOUT THE PRIESTHOOD AND TO CONFIRM THE FAITH OF GOD’S ISRAEL IN HIS INSTITUTIONS. SUCH IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN THE SACRAMENTS WHICH CHRIST HAS APPOINTED FOR EDIFICATION AND THE RELICS WHICH MEN HAVE DEVISED FOR SUPERSTITION.

~ ~ MATTHEW HENRY

WE ARE DIFFERENT TODAY; NUMBERS 17:12,13

AFTER WITNESSING SPECTACULAR MIRACLES, SEEING THE EGYPTIANS PUNISHED BY THE PLAGUES AND EXPERIENCING THE ACTUAL PRESENCE OF GOD, THE ISRAELITES STILL COMPLAINED AND REBELLED. WE WONDER HOW THEY COULD BE SO BLIND AND IGNORANT AND YET WE OFTEN REPEAT THIS SAME PATTERN. WE HAVE CENTURIES OF EVIDENCE, THE BIBLE IN MANY TRANSLATIONS AND THE CONVINCING RESULTS OF ARCHEOLOGICAL AND HISTORICAL STUDIES. BUT PEOPLE TODAY CONTINUE TO DISOBEY GOD AND DO THINGS THEIR OWN WAY. LIKE THE ISRAELITES, WE PAY MORE

ATTENTION TO OUR PHYSICAL CONDITION THAN TO OUR SPIRITUAL CONDITION. WE CAN ESCAPE THIS PATTERN ONLY THROUGH SERVING GOD WITH OUR WHOLE HEART. A HALFHEARTED APPROACH DOESN’T GET US HALF WAY THERE – IT GETS US NOWHERE.

THE NEW COVENANT PROMISED

JEREMIAH 31:31-34

THE OLD COVENANT, BROKEN BY THE PEOPLE WOULD BE REPLACED BY A NEW COVENANT. THE FOUNDATION OF THIS NEW COVENANT IS CHRIST (HEBREWS 8:6). IT IS REVOLUTIONARY, INVOLVING NOT ONLY ISRAEL AND JUDAH BUT EVEN THE GENTILES. IT OFFERS A UNIQUE PERSONAL

RELATIONSHIP WITH GOD HIMSELF, WITH HIS LAWS INSCRIBED ON HEARTS INSTEAD OF ON STONE. JEREMIAH LOOKED FORWARD TO THE DAY WHEN JESUS WOULD COME TO ESTABLISH THIS COVENANT. BUT FOR US TODAY, THIS COVENTANT IS HERE. WE HAVE THE WONDERFUL OPPORTUNITY

TO MAKE A FRESH START AND ESTABLISH A PERMANENT, PERSONAL RELATIONSHIP WITH GOD. THIS IS VERY EXCITING BECAUSE THE BIBLE IS APPROXIMATELY 25% PROPHETIC. THIS NEW COMMUNITY WILL BEAR 3 MAIN CHARACTERISTICS:

1. GOD KNEW THAT THE OLD COVENANTS WERE NOT WORKING AND WOULD NOT HAVE THE POWER TO FOREVER FORGIVE SIN – VERSES 31,32

2. GOD’S WORD WOULD BE IN MAN’S HEART (“INWARD PARTS”) THROUGH THE POWER OF THE HOLY SPIRIT VERSE 33

3. THE THIRD MARK IS THAT THIS NEW COMMUNITY WOULD BE A COMMUNITY OF FORGIVENESS -VERSE 34 VERSE 32 – EXCITING… GOD SAID HE WAS A ‘HUSBAND’ TO THEM; HUSBAND = TO BE MASTER; TO MARRY; RESPONSIBLE USED ABOUT 80 TIMES IN THE OLD TESTAMENT

GEN. 3:6 ADAM
GEN. 3:16 EVE’S DESIRE FOR A HUSBAND
GEN. 29:32 LEAH

IN HOSEA 2:2 AND 3 IT IS USED IN CONTEXT OF GOD’S UNFAITHFUL PEOPLE RETURNING BACK TO THE LORD USING MARRIAGE AS AN EXAMPLE OF A WAYWARD WIFE RETURNING TO HER HUSBAND. PAUL SPEAKS OF CHRIST AND THE CHURCH AS A MYSTERY

EPH. 5:32

THE NEW COVENANT IS EXPRESSED IN THE CONTEXT OF MARRIAGE – CHRIST AND THE CHURCH EPH. 5:21-33

5:25-30

PAUL DEVOTES TWICE AS MANY WORDS TO TELLING HUSBANDS TO LOVE THEIR WIVES AS TO TELLING WIVES TO SUBMIT TO THEIR HUSBANDS. HOW SHOULD A MAN LOVE HIS WIFE?

1) HE SHOULD BE WILLING TO SACRIFICE EVERYTHING FOR HER

2) HE SHOULD MAKE HER WELL-BEING OF PRIMARY IMPORTANCE AND

3) HE SHOULD CARE FOR HER AS HE CARES FOR HIS BODY. NO WIFE NEEDS TO FEAR SUBMITTING TO A MAN WHO TREATS HER IN THIS WAY.

5:31-33 THE UNION OF HUSBAND AND WIFE MERGES TWO PERSONS IN SUCH A WAY THAT LITTLE CAN AFFECT ONE WITHOUT ALSO AFFECTING THE OTHER. ONENESS IN MARRIAGE DOES NOT MEAN LOSING YOUR PERSONALITY IN THE PERSONALITY OF THE OTHER. INSTEAD, IT MEANS CARING

FOR YOUR SPOUSE AS YOU CARE FOR YOURSELF, LEARNING TO ANTICIPATE THE OTHER PERSON’S NEEDS, HELPING THE OTHER PERSON BECOME ALL HE OR SHE CAN BE. THE CREATION STORY TELLS OF GOD’S PLAN THAT HUSBAND AND WIFE SHOULD BE ONE (GEN. 2:24) AND JESUS ALSO REFERRED TO THIS PLAN (MATT. 19:4-6)

THREE WORDS MUST BE UNDERSTOOD TO HELP WITH THIS INCREDIBLE TRUTH: EPHESIANS 5

‘HEAD’ MEANS SOURCE OF ORIGIN V. 23 MALE – FEMALE CHRIST - CHURCH
‘SUBMIT’ – SUBMIT SELF UNTO A CHOICE - THE FREEWILL PRINCIPLE OF THE HUMAN RACE
‘LOVE’ – AGAPE, THE CHARACTERISTIC WORD OF CHRISTIANITY

NOWHERE IN THE NEW TESTAMENT IS A WIFE SPECIFICALLY TOLD TO ‘AGAPE LOVE’ HER HUSBAND RATHER THE INSTRUCTION IS TO RESPECT HIM. EPH. 5:33

THE OLD SAYING IS VERY TRUE, WOMEN NEED SECURITY AND MEN NEED RESPECT. THE INSTRUCTIONS TO THE HUSBAND ARE VERY CLEAR IN I

PETER 3:7… THE LAST WORD IN THE VERSE IS ‘HINDERED’; IN THE GREEK MEANS ‘CUT OFF’.

EXCITING CONCLUSION: JESUS CHRIST IN ESSENCE IS A HUSBAND TO ALL OF US BECAUSE WE ARE HIS BRIDE, ALL BECAUSE OF THE NEW

COVENANT.

MARRIAGE IS A GIFT FROM GOD FOR BOTH MAN AND WOMAN

ONE OF THE MOST CRITICAL ISSUES IN OUR SOCIETY IS THE BREAKDOWN OF MARRIAGE AND THE BREAKUP OF THE HOME. RECENT INFORMATION SUGGESTS A 50-55% DIVORCE RATE IN NORTH AMERICA, WITH THE DRAMATIC EMOTIONAL EFFECT DIVORCE HAS UPON CHILDREN. MANY DIVORCES AND/OR SERIOUS MARRIAGE PROBLEMS COME FROM SPOUSES WHO THEMSELVES HAVE COME FROM TROUBLED HOMES. HOWEVER, IF WE ARE TO BE FAIR TO OUR SPOUSE AND OUR CHILDREN, WE MUST MAKE THE RIGHT CHOICES TODAY BASED UPON THE RIGHT PRINCIPLES AND

KNOWLEDGE.

QUESTION: WHAT IS MARRIAGE AND WHOSE IDEA WAS IT?

ANSWER: GOD’S IDEA - GENESIS 2:8-25

ADAM LIVED IN A PERFECT ENVIRONMENT WHERE ALL HIS NEEDS WERE SUPPLIED EXCEPT ONE – GOD KNEW ADAM NEEDED COMPANIONSHIP. GOD PROVIDED A ‘HELPER’ (VERSE 18) = DIVINE AID, SAME WORD USED FOR GOD’S HELP. PSA. 20:1-5; 79:9; 115:9-15; 121:2;

SOMEONE COMPARABLE TO HIM, MEANS EQUAL; THE PROOF BEING THAT WOMAN WAS CREATED OUT OF MAN’S SIDE NOT HIS HEAD OR FOOT

(VERSE 21) THIS IS A LIFE CHANGING TRUTH!

WHEN THE TIME COMES A MAN WILL LEAVE HIS HOME AND BE JOINED (TO STICK LIKE GLUE, TO HOLD FAST) TO HIS WIFE AND BECOME ONE; VERSE 24

JESUS PROMISED US A HELPER(COMFORTER) AFTER HE LEFT

JOHN 14:15-18

NOW THIS SHOULD BLOW YOUR MIND

~ ~ D. MARTYN-LLOYD JONES

CONSIDER THIS, ADAM WAS ORIGINALLY PERFECT AND COMPLETE, YET THERE WAS A LACK, NO HELPMATE FOR HIM. SO GOD IN HIS WISDOM CREATED WOMAN OUT OF MAN, AND IN MARRIAGE THEY LOVE AND SUPPORT EACH OTHER. THE GREAT MYSTERY IN VERSE 32 OF EPHESIANS 5 IS THIS, JESUS CHRIST WAS PERFECT AND COMPLETE, YET THERE WAS A LACK – A KOINENIA. AGAIN IN GOD’S WISDOM, JESUS CHRIST NEEDED A BRIDE, THAT IS THE CHURCH, WHICH IN TURN ARE BELIEVERS IN HIM. WHEN WE UNDERSTAND THIS GREAT MYSTERY, SCRIPTURE BECOMES ALIVE AS ITS PRINCIPLES JUMP OUT AT US. IN ROMANS 8:17, WE ARE NOW JOINT HEIRS WHICH MEANS POSSESSORS OR JOINT HEIRS WITH JESUS CHRIST. JUST LIKE WE ARE IN THE HUMAN MARRIAGE RELATIONSHIP. WOW, WHAT A CONCEPT! REMEMBER, JESUS CHRIST IS REFERRED TO AS THE SECOND

ADAM, I COR. 15:45-47

“‘THE FIRST MAN’, ADAM IS OF THE EARTH. WAS MADE OF THE DUST. GEN. 2:7. EARTHY = PARTAKING OF THE EARTH; HE WAS A MASS OF ANIMATED CLAY AND COULD BE APPROPRIATELY CALLED ‘DUST’. GEN. 3:9 OF COURSE HE MUST PARTAKE OF A NATURE THAT WAS LOW, MEAN, MORTAL, CORRUPTIBLE.

‘THE SECOND MAN”, CHRIST. VERSE 45. HE IS CALLED THE SECOND MAN, AS BEING THE SECOND WHO SUSTAINED A RELATION TO MEN THAT WAS MATERIALLY TO AFFECT THEIR CONDUCT AND DESTINY; THE SECOND AND THE LAST (V. 45)

WHO SHOULD SUSTAIN A PECULIAR HEADSHIP TO THE RACE. “THE LORD FROM HEAVEN, GEN. 2:8, THE “LORD OF GLORY”. THIS EXPRESSION REFERS TO THE FACT THAT THE LORD JESUS HAD A HEAVENLY ORIGIN, IN CONTRADISTINCTION FROM ADAM, WHO WAS FORMED FROM THE EARTH. THE LATIN RENDERS THIS, “THE SECOND MAN FROM HEAVEN IS HEAVENLY,” AND THIS IDEA SEEMS TO ACCORD WITH THE MEANING IN THE FORMER MEMBER OF THE VERSE. THE SENSE IS, EVIDENTLY, THAT AS THE FIRST MAN HAD AN EARTHLY ORIGIN, AND WAS THEREFORE EARTHY, SO THE SECOND MAN BEING FROM HEAVEN, AS HIS PROPER HOME, WOULD HAVE A BOYD ADAPTED TO THAT ABODE; UNLIKE THAT WHICH WASEARTHY AND WHICH WOULD BE FITTED TO HIS EXALTED NATURE AND TO THE WORLD WHERE HE WOULD DWELL. AND WHILE, THEREFORE, THE PHRASE “FROM HEAVEN” REFERS TO HIS HEAVENLY ORIGIN, THE ESSENTIAL IDEA IS, THAT HE WOULD HAVE A BODY THAT WAS ADAPTED TO SUCH AN

ORIGIN AND SUCH A WORLD – A BODY UNLIKE THAT WHICH WAS EARTHY. THAT IS, CHRIST HAD A GLORIFIED BODY, TO WHICH THE BODIES OF THE SAINTS MUST YET BE MADE LIKE.”

~ ~ BARNES

THE PURIFICATION OF THE BRIDE

D. MARTYN-LLOYD JONES

IN OUR CONSIDERATION OF THE STATEMENT WHICH THE APOSTLE MAKES CONCERNING THE DUTY OF HUSBANDS TOWARDS THEIR WIVES WE ARE GIVING ATTENTION TO THE TEACHING CONCERNING OUR LORD IN HIS RELATIONSHIP TO THE CHURCH. WE HAVE SEEN HIS CONCERN FOR HER, HIS

ATTITUDE WITH RESPECT TO HER; AND WE ARE EMPHASIZINGHOW THIS ATTITUDE AND CONCERN HAVE EXPRESSED THEMSELVES IN ACTION, IN PRACTICE. WE HAVE SEEN WHAT THE LORD HAS DONE FOR THE CHURCH – “HE GAVE HIMSELF FOR IT”. WE HAVE ALSO CONSIDERED WHAT HE IS STILL DOING FOR THE CHURCH. HE HAS DONE THAT FIRST THING ONCE AND FOR EVER – HE GAVE HIMSELF FOR IT. BUT HE DOES NOT LEAVE IT AT THAT; HE GOES ON DOING SOMETHING TO THE CHURCH AND FOR THE CHURCH.

WE HAVE BEEN LOOKING ALSO AT THE WORD ‘SANCTIFY’ AND ITS MEANING. THE LORD HAS SET THE CHURCH APART FOR HIMSELF; WE ARE HIS ‘PECULIAR PEOPLE’, A PEOPLE FOR HIS OWN PECULIAR, SPECIAL POSSESSION, HIS BRIDE. HE HAS SET HER ASIDE AND APART IN ORDER THAT HE MAY DO CERTAIN THINGS FOR HER. THE APOSTLE’S FUNDAMENTAL PROPOSITION, SO WE HAVE SEEN, IS THAT WE CANNOT UNDERSTAND THE DUTIES OF

HUSBANDS AND WIVES UNLESS WE UNDERSTAND THE TRUTH ABOUT CHRIST AND THE CHURCH; WE HAVE THEREFORE STARTED WITH THE TRUTH, AS THE APOSTLE DOES. THE HUSBAND IS TO LOVE HIS WIFE, ‘EVEN AS CHRIST LOVES THE CHURCH’. WE HAVE REMINDED OURSELVES OF THE CONTENT OF THE WORD ‘LOVE’. IT IS THE HIGHEST WORD THAT THE BIBLE KNOWS. IT IS THE SAME SORT OF LOVE WHEREWITH CHRIST LOVED THE CHURCH; INDEED, WHEREWITH GOD HAS LOVED THE WORLD. THEREFORE WE ARE CONCENTRATING UPON THIS LOVE OF THE LORD JESUS CHRIST FOR THE CHURCH.

WE HAVE ONLY LOOKED AT IT IN GENERAL SO FAR. WE HAVE LOOKED AT HIS WHOLE ATTITUDE TOWARDS THE CHURCH. HIS CONCERN ABOUT HER, HIS PRIDE IN HER, THE WAY IN WHICH HE SHIELDS HER AND GUARDS HER AND PROTECTS HER. THAT IS BROUGHT OUT HERE. THE APOSTLE BRINGS ALL THAT OUT HERE AND HE DOES SO IN THIS MOST AMAZING MANNER. “HUSBANDS, LOVE YOUR WIVES, EVEN AS CHRIST ALSO LOVED THE CHURCH”. HOW DO WE KNOW THAT HE LOVED THE CHURCH? HERE IS THE ANSWER: “AND GAVE HIMSELF FOR IT”. THAT IS LOVE – “HE GAVE HIMSELF FOR IT”. BUT HE DOES NOT STOP AT THAT. “HUSBANDS, LOVE YOUR WIVES, EVEN AS CHRIST ALSO LOVED THE CHURCH, AND GAVE HIMSELF FOR IT; THAT (IN ORDER THAT ) HE MIGHT SANCTIFY AND CLEANSE IT WITH THE WASHING OF WATER BY THE WORD, THAT (IN ORDER THAT) HE MIGHT PRESENT IT TO HIMSELF A GLORIOUS CHURCH, NOT HAVING SPOT OR WRINKLE OR ANY SUCH THING; BUT THAT IT SHOULD BE HOLY AND WITHOUT BLEMISH”. “NOW”, SAYS THE APOSTLE, “YOU WHO ARE IN THIS MARRIED RELATIONSHIP FIND THINGS IN EACH OTHER THAT YOU DO NOT LIKE AND DO NOT APPROVE OF – DEFICIENCIES, FAULTS, FAILURES, SINS – AND YOU ARE CRITICAL, AND STAND ON YOUR DIGNITY AND CONDEMN AND QUARREL AND SEPARATE.

WHY? SIMPLY BECAUSE YOU FAIL TO REMEMBER THE WAY IN WHICH YOU YOURSELVES HAVE BEEN SAVED AND HAVE BECOME CHRISTIANS AND MEMBER OF THE CHRISTIAN CHURCH.” HE REMINDS THEM THAT IF THE LORD JESUS CHRIST HAD REACTED TO THEM AS THEY REACT TO ONE ANOTHER THERE WOULD NEVER HAVE BEEN A CHURCH. “LOVE NEVER FAILETH”, LOVE GOES ON LOVING IN SPITE OF EVERYTHING. THAT IS THE LOVE WHEREWITH CHRIST HAS LOVED THE CHURCH.”

DO WE NEED THIS MESSAGE TODAY?

GOOD MORNING

BEAUTIFUL BRIDE OF CHRIST

THIS IS WHY WE ARE CALLED:

1. A PECULIAR PEOPLE (SPECIAL) TITUS 2:14

2. THE BRIDE OF CHRIST EPH. 5:22-33

3. A HOLY NATION I PETER 2:9

4. TEMPLE OF THE HOLY SPIRIT II COR. 6:19,20

5. SAINTS I COR. 1:2

6. PRESERVED BLAMELESS AT HIS COMING I THESS.5:23

7. ROYAL PRIESTHOOD I PETER 2:9

8. LIVING STONES I PETER 2:9

9. A SPIRITUAL HOUSE I PETER 2:5

10. HOLY PRIESTHOOD I PETER 2:5

11. PEOPLE OF GOD I PETER 2:9

JESUS CHRIST IS THE CORNERSTONE I PETER 2:6,7

THE ULTIMATE MARRIAGE CELEBRATION

REVELATION 19:1-10

“ALLELUIA” IS A UNIVERSAL WORD OF PRAISE. IT WAS THE BASIS FOR HANDEL WHEN HE WROTE “THE HALLELUJAH CHORUS”. HE WROTE: “ I THINK I DID SEE ALL OF HEAVEN BEFORE ME AND THE GREAT GOD HIMSELF”.

19:1-8 A ‘VAST CROWD IN HEAVEN” INITIATES THE CHORUS OF PRAISE TO GOD FOR HIS VICTORY (1-3). THE THE 24 ELDERS JOIN THE CHORUS (VS. 4). FINALLY, THE GREAT CHOIR OF HEAVEN ONCE AGAIN PRAISES GOD – THE WEDDING BANQUET OF THE LAMB HAS COME (6-8) 19:1-10 PRAISE IS THE HEARTFELT RESPONSE TO GOD BY THOSE WHO LOVE HIM. THE MORE YOU GET TO KNOW HIM AND REALIZE WHAT HE HAS DONE, THE MORE YOU WILL RESPOND WITH PRAISE. PRAISE IS AT THE HEART OF TRUE WORSHIP. LET YOUR PRAISE OF GOD FLOW OUT OF YOUR REALIZATION OF WHO HE IS AND HOW MUCH HE LOVES YOU.

19:7 THIS IS THE CULMINATION OF HUMAN HISTORY – THE JUDGMENT OF THE WICKED AND THE MARRIAGE FEAST OF THE LAMB AND HIS BRIDE, THE CHURCH. THE CHURCH CONSISTS OF ALL FAITHFUL BELIEVERS FROM ALL TIME. THE BRIDE’S PURITY STANDS IN STARK CONTRAST TO THE FILTH OF THE NOTORIOUS PROSTITUTE IN CHAPTER 17.

19:7-9 HERE THE CHURCH IS PICTURED AS BOTH THE BRIDE (V.7,8) AND THE GUESTS INVITED TO THE WEDDING FEAST (V. 9). AS THOSE GIVEN TO CHRIST, WE ARE THE BRIDE; AS THOSE CALLED TO BE PART OF GOD’S KINGDOM, WE ARE THE INVITED

GUESTS.

19:9,10 JESUS IS THE CENTRAL FOCUS OF GOD’S REVELATION AND HIS REDEMPTIVE PLAN (AS ANNOUNCED BY THE PROPHETS). AS YOU READ THE BOOK OF REVELATION, DON’T GET BOGGED DOWN IN ALL THE DETAILS OF THE AWESOME VISIONS; REMEMBER THAT THE OVERARCHING THEME IN ALL THE VISIONS IS THE ULTIMATE VICTORY OF JESUS CHRIST OVER EVIL.

JOHN HAGEE “THREE STAGES OF MARRIAGE…

1) LUST

2)RUST

3) DUST”

REMEMBER, THE LORD YOUR GOD WHO GIVES YOU THE POWER TO GET WEALTH THAT HE MAY ESTABLISH HIS COVENANT DEUT. 8:17-20

BLESSING COMES FROM OBEDIENCE PROV. 10:22 “THE LORD GIVETH AND THE LORD TAKETH AWAY”

HOSEA 2:8,9

ISRAEL CROSSES THE JORDAN WITH THE ARK OF THE COVENANT JOSHUA 3:14-17 REPENTANCE ~~ OBEDIENCE ~~ FAITH

3:2-4 THE ARK OF GOD (ALSO CALLED THE ARK OF THE COVENANT) WAS ISRAEL’S MOST SACRED TREASURE. IT WAS SYMBOL OF GOD’S PRESENCE AND POWER. THE ARK WAS A GOLDEN RECTANGULAR BOX WITH TWO CHERUBIM FACING EACH OTHER ON THE LID. INSIDE THE ARK WERE THE TEN COMMANDMENTS MOSES RECEIVED FROM GOD, A JAR OF MANNA (THE BREAD GOD MIRACULOUSLY SENT FROM HEAVEN) AND AARON’S

STAFF (THE SYMBOL OF THE HIGH PRIEST’S AUTHORITY). ACCORDING TO GOD’S LAW, ONLY THE LEVITES, WHO WERE DESCENDENTS OF AARON, COULD CARRY THE ARK.THE ARK WAS CONSTRUCTED AT THE SAME TIME AS THE TABERNACLE (EX. 37:1-9) AND PLACED IN THE SANCTUARY’S MOST SACRED ROOM. IS THE LORD OUR MOST TREASURED OR SACRED POSSESSION?

IN THE OLD TESTAMENT, THE FINAL MENTION OF THE ARK IS FOUND IN JEREMIAH 3:16. THERE THE LORD TOLD ISRAEL THAT THE TIME WAS COMING WHEN THEY WOULD NO MORE REMEMBER THE ARK OR TALK ABOUT THE ARK OF THE LORD NOR WOULD IT EVEN COME INTO THEIR MIND. THIS IS A

REMARKABLE PROPHECY WHEN THE ARK WAS THE MOST IMPORTANT ARTICLE OF FURNITURE IN THE WHOLE HISTORY OF NATION, FOR TABERNACLE OF MOSES, TABERNACLE OF DAVID AND TEMPLE OF SOLOMON. AT THAT TIME, THEY WOULD SEEK THE LORD AND HIS THRONE AT JERUSALEM. THAT IS, THE ETERNAL THRONE AND THE ETERNAL JERUSALEM, NOT THE EARTHLY THING WHICH WOULD PASS AWAY. THE FINAL MENTION OF THE ARK IN THE NEW TESTAMENT IS FOUND IN REV. 11:19. THERE JOHN SEES THE HEAVENLY TEMPLE OPENED AND THE ARK OF GOD SENDING FORTH FLASHINGS OF DIVINE ACTIVITY INTO THE EARTH. THIS IS THE ETERNAL ARK OR THRONE OF GOD. THE ARK ON EARTH WAS BUT THE PASSING SHADOW OF THE ETERNAL. THIS IS THE ARK OR THRONE OF GOD THAT BELIEVERS WILL GATHER AROUND IN THE AGES TO COME, FOR ALL ETERNITY TO WORSHIP GOD

THE FATHER AND THE REDEEMING LAMB, HIS SON.

CONTEXT: A CALL TO REPENTANCE JEREMIAH 3:16-18

IN THE DAYS OF DAVID AND SOLOMON’S REIGN OVER A UNITED ISRAEL, THE PEOPLE HAD A BEAUTIFUL TEMPLE WHERE THEY WORSHIPED GOD. THE TEMPLE HOUSED THE ARK OF THE COVENANT, THE SYMBOL OF GOD’S PRESENCE WITH THE PEOPLE. THE ARK HELD THE TABLETS OF THE TEN

COMMANDMENTS (EX. 25:10-22) THOSE DAYS WITH THE ARK WON’T BE MISSED IN THE FUTURE KINGDOM, BECAUSE GOD’S PRESENCE BY THE HOLY SPIRIT WILL BE THERE PERSONALLY AMONG HIS PEOPLE.

THE CONTENTS OF THE ARK –

I KINGS 8:9; II CHRONICLES 5:10

WHEN THE ARK WAS PLACED IN THE TEMPLE, THE ONLY CONTENTS IN THE ARK WERE THE TWO TABLES OF THE LAW OF GOD. THE GOLDEN POT OF MANNA WAS REMOVED. THE BUDDING ROD OF AARON WAS GONE. THE LAW OF GOD ONLY REMAINED. PERHAPS THE SIGNIFICANCE OF THESE MAY BE SEEN IN THE FOLLOWING THOUGHTS. THE MANNA WAS ALSO A WILDERNESS FOOD. WHEN ISRAEL ENTERED CANAAN LAND THEY PARTOOK OF THE FRUIT OF THE LAND (JOSHUA 5:12).

IT SEEMS ALSO TO HAVE PROPHETIC SIGNIFICANCE IN THE BOOK OF REVELATION. THERE THE OVERCOMER IS GIVEN THE

PROMISE OF EATING THE HIDDEN MANNA (REV. 2:17). THE HIDDEN MANNA SPEAKS OF ETERNAL LIFE. IT CORRESPONDS WITH THE TREE OF ETERNAL LIFE WHICH WILL BE RESTORED TO THOSE WHO ARE REDEEMED (REV. 22:1-4).

THE BUDDING ROD OF AARON ALSO WAS THE RESULT OF THE MURMURINGS OF ISRAEL IN THE WILDERNESS. GOD CONFIRMED AARON’S PRIESTHOOD BY THE SIGN OF THE BUDDING ROD. AARON WAS THE HIGH PRIEST OF THE WILDERNESS DAYS. SINCE ISRAEL ENTERED CANAAN,

ELEAZER WAS A THE HIGH PRIEST OF THIS FIRST PERIOD. IN NEW COVENANT TIMES, CHRIST IS OUR ETERNAL AND GREAT HIGH PRIEST, HAVING NO SUCCESSOR TO HIS MINISTRY. HE LIVES IN THE POWER OF AN ENDLESS LIFE AFTER THE ORDER OF MELCHISEDEK. SO THERE IS NOT NEED OF THE BUDDING ROD FOR ALL WHO ENTER THE ETERNAL KINGDOM OF GOD.

CHRIST’S PRIESTHOOD IS FOR EVER SETTLED BY THE FACT OF HIS RESURRECTION AND ASCENSION TO HEAVEN. THE LAW REMAINS. GOD’S LAW IS ETERNAL, HOLY, JUST AND GOOD. THE LAW OF THE LORD IS PERFECT. IT IS THE ETERNAL LAW OF LOVE AND LOVING OBEDIENCE. ANGELIC BEINGS OR

REDEEMED MANKIND WILL LIVE ETERNALLY ACCORDING TO GOD’S HOLY LAW. ALL WILL KEEP THE LAW OF LOVE; LOVE TOGOD AND LOVE TO ONE ANOTHER. ALL OTHER LAWS ARE FULFILLED IN THE LAW OF LOVE. SELF-WILL IS LAWLESSNESS. IN THAT DAY ALL WILL KNOW THE LAW OF THE LORD AND KEEP IN THE HEART, PERFECTLY, EVEN AS CHRIST DID. (HEB. 8:10-12; PSALM 40:8; HEBREWS 10:7; DEUT. 10:5; 31:26)

ITS CONTENTS

THERE WERE FOUR ARTICLES RELATIVE TO THE ARK, THREE OF WHICH WERE PLACED INSIDE, AND ONE IN THE SIDE OF THE ARK ALTHOUGH NOT SPECIFICALLY STATED HOW IT WAS PLACED. THESE ARTICLES WERE:

THE TABLES OF THE LAW – EX. 25:16,17; DEUT. 10:5; 31:26. SUCH WAS SYMBOLIC OF THE FATHER’S LAW, THE SOURCE OF ALL ORDER, AUTHORITY AND GOVERNMENT. BY THESE LAWS THE NATION WAS GOVERNED AND PROTECTED MORALLY, SOCIALLY AND SPIRITUALLY, AS LONG AS THEY KEPT THEM. IT ALSO POINTS TO THE FACT THAT THE FATHER’S LAW WAS IN THE HEART OF CHRIST WHO IS THE ONLY MAN WHO KEPT THESE LAWS PERFECTLY (PSALM 40:8; HEBREWS 10:7). THE FATHER IS THE LAW-GIVER.
THE GOLDEN POT OF MANNA – EXODUS 16; HEBREWS 9:4; JOHN 6; REVELATION 2:17. THE MANNA WAS SYMBOLIC OF THE BLESSED SON OF GOD, THE HEAVENLY BREAD OF GOD WITHOUT WHICH ALL MEN WILL DIE.
THE ROD OF AARON THAT BUDDED – NUMBERS 17:10; HEBREWS 9:4 THIS SPEAKS OF THE HOLY SPIRIT, WHO IS THE LIFE-GIVING ONE, SEALING THE PRIESTHOOD OF THE LORD JESUS CHRIST BY RESURRECTION LIFE AND POWER. EVEN AS THE BUDDING ROD CONFIRMED AARON’S ANOINTED AND APPOINTED PRIESTHOOD BY THE MANIFESTATION OF LIFE, SO DOES THE RESURRECTION FOR CHRIST JESUS.
THE BOOK OF THE COVENANT – DEUT. 31:26; I KINGS 22 THE BOOK OF THE COVENANT IN THE SIDE OF THE ARK, THOUGH HOW IS NOT SPECIFICALLY STATED. HOWEVER, IT SPEAKS OF THE BIBLE, THE BOOK OF GOD’S COVENANTAL DEALINGS ARE WRITTEN IN HIS COVENANT

BOOK.

THE HOLY PLACE - I KINGS 6:17,20

THE MEASUREMENTS OF THE HOLY PLACE WERE 40 CUBITS LONG, 20 CUBITS BROAD, AND 30 CUBITS HIGH. THESE WERE THE MEASUREMENTS OVER ALL. IT DEPENDS ON WHETHER OR NOT THERE WAS AN “UPPER CHAMBER” OVER THE HOLY PLACE AS THERE WAS OVER THE MOST HOLY PLACE.

SCRIPTURE DOES NOT SPECIFICALLY STATE WHETHER THIS WAS SO OR NOT. THE INCLUSIVE AREA WOULD THEREFORE EQUAL 40 X 20 X 30 = 24,000 CUBICAL CONTENT. THE NUMBER 12 OR 24 IS THEREFORE PROMINENT IN ITS TRIPLICATE OF THOUSANDS. THE NUMBER 24 IS ALSO SYMBOLIC OF GOD’S ORDER AND GOVERNMENT. IT IS ESPECIALLY SEEN IN THE PRIESTLY COURSES ESTABLISHED BY DAVID FOR THE TEMPLE ORDER. A STUDY OF I CHRONICLES 23 – 28 REVEALS THIS.

THE NUMBER 24 IS THE NUMBER OF PRIESTLY ADMINISTRATIONS. IN THE “DAILY ADMINISTRATIONS” THERE WERE 24 PRIESTS ON DUTY 24 HOURS OF DAY, REPRESENTING THE 24,000 PRIESTLY COURSES, WHO REPRESENTED THE THOUSANDS OF ISRAEL BEFORE THE LORD IN HIS TEMPLE. IT IS THE ULTIMATE NUMBER IN THE CITY OF GOD, THE NEW JERUSALEM (REV. 21-22).

THEREFORE THE HOLY PLACE OF THE TEMPLE IS STAMPED WITH THE SIGNIFICANCE OF THE NUMBER 24 IN ITS MULTIPLES.

THE HOLIEST OF ALL – I KINGS 6:16,20; II CHRON. 3:8

THE MEASUREMENT OF THE HOLIEST OF ALL, OR THE HOLY ORACLE, THE VERY THRONE ROOM OF THE GLORY OF GOD HIMSELF, ALSO ADD TO THIS TRUTH AND POINT ULTIMATELY TO THE CITY OF GOD, WHERE THE THRONE OF GOD AND THE LAMB IS FOUND. THE MEASUREMENTS OF THE HOLIEST OF ALL WERE:

LENGTH = 20 CUBITS

BREADTH = 20 CUBITS

HEIGHT = 20 CUBITS

IN OTHER WORDS, IT WAS A FOURSQUARE, OR A PERFECT CUBE. THIS IS EXACTLY AS THE MOST HOLY PLACE O THE TABERNACLE OF MOSES, WHICH WAS FOURSQUARE ALSO. THERE THE ARK OF THE COVENANT STOOD ON THE “EARTH FLOOR”. ALL PERTAINED PROPHETICALLY TO THE REDEMPTIVE PLAN OF GOD RELATIVE TO THIS EARTH. THE GLORY OF GOD WILL COVER THE EARTH. HOWEVER, ALL THAT PERTAINS TO THE TEMPLE HAS TO DO WITH THE “GOLD FLOOR” AND POINTS ULTIMATELY TO THE CITY OF GOD WITH ITS STREETS OF GOLD, THE CITY FOURSQUARE.

THE DIVINE PURPOSE FOR THE TEMPLE THE DIVINE PURPOSE FOR THE EXISTENCE OF THE TEMPLE IS VERY SPECIFIC. GOD WANTED TO HAVE A PLACE IN WHICH TO RECORD HIS NAME, A PLACE IN WHICH HE COULD DWELL AMONG HIS PEOPLE IN HIS GLORY AND PRESENCE. “THE NAME” IN SCRIPTURE ALWAYS SPEAKS OF “THE NATURE” OF GOD, THE CHARACTER OF GOD, WHO HE IS IN HIS OWN

ESSENTIAL BEING. GOD HAS ALWAYS WANTED A PLACE – INDEED A PERSON – IN WHICH HE COULD SET HIS NAME AND ALL THAT IS REPRESENTED IN THAT EXPRESSION.

LET US NOTE THE PROGRESSION, ESPECIALLY IN RELATION TO GOD’S DWELLING PLACES WITH ISRAEL, OF THE NAME OF THE LORD!

THE TEMPLE OF SOLOMON

I KINGS 5 – 9 AND II CHRON. 1 – 7 DEAL WITH THE GREAT PORTION OF DETAILS OF THIS TEMPLE OF THE LORD, WHICH PATTERN HAD BEEN GIVEN TO KING DAVID. ABOUT 400 YEARS LATER, THIS TEMPLE WAS DESTROYED BY KING NEBUCHADNEZZAR, KING OF BABYLON BECAUSE OF THE ABOMINATIONS AND IDOLATRIES ISRAEL BROUGHT INTO IT (EZEKIEL 8 – 10; JEREMIAH 7:1-14; II KINGS 25:8-17). THE BURDEN OF THIS TEXT DEALS WITH THIS TEMPLE. THE TEMPLE OF THE HOLY SPIRIT THE CHURCH, THE BODY OF CHRIST WITH ITS MEMBERS BOTH INDIVIDUALLY AND CORPORATELY IS ALSO SPOKEN OF AS THE TEMPLE OF THE HOLY SPIRIT. THIS IS THE NEW COVENANT TEMPLE IN THE EARTH SINCE CHRIST’S ASCENSION AND THE DAY OF PENTECOST WITH ITS ATTENDANT OUTPOURING OF THE SPIRIT. GOD LIVES IN THE BELIEVER, IN THE CHURCH, BY THE INDWELLING HOLY SPIRIT (EPH. 2:19-22); I COR. 3:16,17; 6:16-20; I COR. 6:16-18)

THE COMING MESSENGER AND THE COMING MESSENGER OF THE COVENANT MALACHI 3:12 3:1 THERE ARE TWO MESSENGERS IN THIS VERSE. THE FIRST IS USUALLY UNDERSTOOD TO BE JOHN THE BAPTIST (MATTHEW 11:10; LUKE 7:27). THE SECOND MESSENGER IS JESUS, THE MESSIAH, FOR WHOM BOTH MALACHI AND JOHN THE BAPTIST PREPARED THE WAY.

HOW WILL HE COME? MALACHI 3:3 3:3

IN THE PROCESS OF REFINING METALS, THE RAW METAL IS HEATED WITH FIRE UNTIL IT MELTS. THE IMPURITIES SEPARATE FROM IT AND RISE OT THE SURFACE. THEY ARE THEN SKIMMED OFF, LEAVING THE PURE METAL. WITHOUT THIS HEATING AND MELTING, THERE COULD BE NO PURIFYING. AS THE IMPURITIES ARE SKIMMED OFF THE TOP, THE REFLECTION OF THE METALLURGIST APPEARS IN THE SMOOTH, PURE SURFACE. AS WE ARE PURIFIED BY GOD, HIS REFLECTION IN OUR LIVES WILL BECOME MORE AND MORE CLEAR TO THOSE AROUND US. GOD SAYS THAT LEADERS (HERE THE LEVITES) SHOULD BE ESPECIALLY OPEN TO HIS PURIFICATION PROCESS IN THEIR LIVES.

THREE OF THE MOST INCREDIBLE VERSES IN THE ENTIRE BIBLE LUKE 23:44-46 THIS EVENT CHANGED THE COURSE OF

HISTORY

23:44 DARKNESS COVERED THE ENTIRE LAND FOR ABOUT THREE HOURS IN THE MIDDLE OF THE DAY. ALL NATURE SEEMED TO MOURN OVER THE STARK TRAGEDY OF THE DEATH OF GOD’S SON. NATURE WAS CHANGED BY ALMIGHTY GOD. GEN. 8:22 23:45 THIS SIGNIFICANT EVENT SYMBOLIZED CHRIST’S WORK ON THE CROSS. THE TEMPLE HAD THREE PARTS: THE COURTS FOR ALL THE PEOPLE; THE HOLY PLACE, WHERE ONLY PRIESTS COULD ENTER; AND THE HOLY OF HOLIES, WHERE THE HIGH PRIEST ALONE COULD ENTER ONCE A YEAR. THE ARK OF THE COVENANT, AND GOD’S PRESENCE WITH IT, RESTED. THE CURTAIN THAT SPLIT WAS THE ONE THAT CLOSED OFF THE HOLY OF HOLIES FROM VIEW. AT CHRIST’S DEATH, THE BARRIER BETWEEN GOD AND MAN WAS TORN APART. NOW ALL PEOPLE ARE ABLE TO APPROACH GOD DIRECTLY THROUGH CHRIST (HEBREWS 9:1-14; 10:19-22)

WE NOTE SOME OF THE IMPORTANT LESSONS TO BE LEARNT FROM A STUDY OF THE VEIL IN SCRIPTURE:

THE VEIL WAS A DIVIDER, A SEPARATOR FROM THE PRESENCE OF GOD. THIS IS THE MESSAGE IT SPELT OUT TO MAN. THUS FAR AND NO FURTHER. THE WORD VEIL ACTUALLY MEANS “THAT WHICH HIDES” OR “A SEPARATION, A CURTAIN”. SO SIN BROUGHT SEPARATION BETWEEN GOD AND MAN. THERE IS A VEIL BETWEEN GOD AND MAN THAT HAS TO BE BROKEN DOWN, THAT HAS TO BE RENT. IT IS SIN WHICH DWELLS IN MAN’S FLESH, IN WHICH IS NO GOOD THING.

THE VEIL HID GOD FROM MAN’S VIEW. GOD’S GLORY COULD NOT BE SEEN BECAUSE OF THE VEIL. THERE COULD BE NO FACE TO FACE COMMUNION WITH THAT VEIL THERE. EVEN AS THE CHILDREN OF ISRAEL COULD NOT HAVE FACE TO FACE COMMUNION WITH MOSES BECAUSE OF THE VEIL THAT HID HIS FACE OF GLORY, SO MAN COULD NOT HAVE FACE TO FACE COMMUNION WITHGOD, OR BEHOLD HIS GLORY.
THE VEIL WAS “RENT IN THE MIDST” WHEN CHRIST DIED ON CALVARY. IT WAS RENT IN TWO, TORN APART BY THE SUPERNATURAL POWER OF GOD, THUS DECLARING THAT ACCESS INTO HIS PRESENCE WAS AVAILABLE THROUGH CHRIST. (LUKE 23:45)
THE VEIL WAS “RENT FROM TOP TO BOTTOM” WHEN CHRIST DIED (MATT. 27:51). IT WAS AN ACT OF GOD, NOT OF MAN. IT WAS RENT FROM TOP TO BOTTOM, NOT BOTTOM TO TOP. GOD’S GRACE COMES TO MAN. HE TAKES THE INITIATIVE. GRACE IS GOD COMING TO MAN, NOT MAN COMING TO GOD.
THE VEIL WAS RENT IN CONNECTION WITH CHRIST’S DEATH, WITH THE RENDING OF THE “VEIL OF HIS FLESH” (HEB. 9:8; 10;19,20). CHRIST WAS GOD’S TEMPLE IN FLESH, AND WHEN THE VEIL OF HIS FLESH WAS RENT IN CRUCIFIXION, SO THE VEIL OF THE MATERIAL TEMPLE WAS RENT. CHRIST CRUCIFIED IS THE RENT VEIL MAKING ACCESS TO GOD FOR ALL WHO COME TO GOD BY AND THROUGH HIM.
THE RENT VEIL SIGNIFIED THE TRUTH THAT “THE WAY” WAS NOW OPEN. IT SIGNIFIED THE FULFILLMENT AND ABOLISHMENT OF THE OLD COVENANT, THE MOSAIC COVENANT WITH ALL ITS ECONOMY AND CEREMONIALS PERTAINING TO ANIMAL SACRIFICES AND RITUALISM. SO MANY PRECIOUS TRUTHS ARE HIDDEN IN THE TRUTH OF THE VEIL. NOW ALL BELIEVERS HAVE ACCESS TO THE VERY PRESENCE OF GOD “WITHIN THE VEIL”. THERE IS NOTHING BETWEEN GOD’S VIEWPOINT.

THE IN-WROUGHT VEIL SPOKE OF THE BEAUTY AND PERFECTIONS OF CHRIST’S LIFE. AS LONG AS HE LIVES AN THE VEIL OF HIS FLESH STOOD, THERE WAS NO ACCESS TO GOD. HIS PERFECT, SINLESS LIFE CONDEMNED US THE RENT VEIL SPOKE OF HIS VICARIOUS DEATH, MAKING ACCESS AVAILABLE TO GOD THE FATHER. IT SPOKE OF HIs BROKEN BODY AND SHED BLOOD. THE VEIL MUST BE RENT. CHRIST MUST DIE. HE IS THE WAY TO THE FATHER. IN THE RENT VEIL WE HAVE THE CLOSING OFF OF THE OLD COVENANT AND THE OPENING OF THE NEW COVENANT. THE “MIDDLE

WALL’ OF PARTITION HAS BEEN BROKEN DOWN NEVER TO BE RE-INSTITUTED AGAIN. ALL THAT WE LOST IN ADAM IS RESTORED IN CHRIST. MAN LOST THE WAY, THE TRUTH AND THE LIFE IN ADAM. CHRIST RESTORED AND BECAME THE WAY, THE TRUTH AND THE LIFE (JOHN 14:6).

HE ALSO, IN ANOTHER ASPECT, RELATIVE TO THE HEAVENLY SANCTUARY HAS GONE “WITHIN THE VEIL” AND MINISTERS THERE AS OUR HIGH PRIEST (HEB. 6:20; ACTS 1:8-11; I JOHN 2:1). NO WONDER A GREAT COMPANY OF AARONIC AND LEVITICAL PRIESTS ACCEPTED “THE FAITH” WHEN THEY SAW THE TRUTH OF THE “RENT VEIL” (ACTS 6:7). ONE DAY, HEAVEN’S VEIL WILL BE RENT AND JESUS WILL COME FROM “WITHIN THE VEIL” , BUT THIS TIME IN FLAMING FIRE AND JUDGMENT ON ALL WHO DO NOT BELIEVE IN HIM. READ I PETER 3:22; HEBREWS 5:1-5; MARK 16:19; HEBREWS 10:19- 22; REV. 19:11-16. THOUGH WE HERE ON EARTH CANNOT SEE HIM, YET WE KNOW HE MINISTERS IN HEAVEN’S SANCTUARY IN BEHALF OF HIS PEOPLE AS OUR GREAT HIGH PRIEST.

MOST OF THE MAJOR AND MINOR PROPHETS REFER TO THE COVENANT, INCLUDING ISAIAH, JEREMIAH, EZEKIEL, AMOS, HOSEA, MALACHI.

ZECHARIAH 9:1-17 THE LAST SIX CHAPTERS OF THE BOOK ARE TWO MESSAGES DELIVERED LATE IN ZECHARIAH’S LIFE WHICH POINT TO THE MESSIAH AND HIS SECOND COMING. SOME OF THESE PROPHECIES WERE FULFILLED BEFORE THE MESSIAH CAME, PERHAPS BY ALEXANDER THE GREAT; OTHERS WERE FULFILLED DURING THE MESSIAH’S TIME ON EARTH; AND OTHERS WILL BE FULFILLED WHEN HE RETURNS. THOSE WHO OPPRESSED JERUSALEM – SYRIA, PHILISTIA, PHOENICIA – WOULD BE CRUSHED. THE PROMISED KING WOULD COME – FIRST AS A SERVANT ON A DONKEY’S COLT, THEN AS A POWERFUL RULER AND JUDGE.8:11 COVENANTS IN OLD TESTAMENT TIMES WERE SEALED OR CONFIRMED WITH BLOOD, MUCH AS WE WOULD SIGN OUR NAME TO A CONTRACT. THE OLD COVENANT WAS SEALED BY THE BLOOD OF SACRIFICES, POINTING TO THE BLOOD CHRIST

WOULD SHED AT CALVARY, HIS “SIGNATURE” WHICH CONFIRMED GOD’S NEW COVENANT WITH HIS PEOPLE. BECAUSE GOD HAD MADE A COVENANT WITH THESE PEOPLE, HE DELIVERED THEM FROM THE “WATERLESS PIT”, THE CISTERN-LIKE PRISON OF EXILE. ZECHARIAH 11 – THE OLD COVENANT WAS NOT WORKING ANY LONGER BECAUSE OF MAN’S DISOBEDIENCE AND THEREFORE GOD WAS PREPARING THE WORLD FOR THE NEW COVENANT. HOWEVER, THIS DOES NOT MEAN THAT GOD CHANGED HIS MIND. IT JUST SHOWS HIS LOVE AND MERCY.

NEW TESTAMENT COVENANT

FIRST TIME THE WORD ‘COVENANT’ USED WAS IN LUKE 1:72-73. THIS WAS GOD’S PROMISE TO ABRAHAM TO BLESS ALL NATIONS THROUGH HIM, GEN. 12:1-3. IT WOULD BE FULFILLED THROUGH THE MESSIAH GOD DOES NOT FORGET HIS COVENANT LEV. 26:42 THE WORD ‘COVENANT’ IS NOT USED AGAIN UNTIL AFTER CHRIST HAS ASCENDED TO HEAVEN; ACTS 3:25,25

GOD PROMISED ABRAHAM THAT HE WOULD BLESS THE WORLD THROUGH HIS DESCENDANTS, THE JEWISH RACE (GEN. 12:3), FROM WHICH THE MESSIAH WOULD COME. GOD INTENDED THE JEWISH NATION TO BE A SEPARATE AND HOLY NATION THAT WOULD TEACH THE WORLD ABOUT GOD, INTRODUCE THE MESSIAH, AND THEN CARRY ON HIS WORK IN THE WORLD. AFTER THE DAYS OF SOLOMON, THE NATION GAVE UP ITS MISSION TO TELL THE WORLD ABOUT GOD, AND NOW IN APOSTOLIC TIMES, IT ALSO REJECTED THE MESSIAH. ACTS 7:8 CIRCUMCISION WAS A SIGN OF THE PROMISE MADE BETWEEN GOD, ABRAHAM AND THE ENTIRE NATION OF ISRAEL (GEN. 17:9-13). STEPHEN’S SPEECH WAS A SUMMARY OF ISRAEL’S HISTORY, THUS A SUMMARY OF HOW THIS COVENANT FARED OVER TIME. STEPHEN POINTED OUT THAT GOD ALWAYS KEPT HIS SIDE OF THE PROMISE, BUT ISRAEL FAILED AGAIN AND AGAIN TO UPHOLD ITS END. ALTHOUGH THE NEWS IN STEPHEN’S DAY STILL ADHERED TO THE CEREMONY OF CIRCUMCISION, THEY NEGLECTED TO OBEY. THE PEOPLE’S HEARTS WERE FAR FROM GOD, AND SO THEY HAD GONE BACK ON THEIR SIDE OF THE PROMISE.

ALL ISRAEL WILL BE SAVED; ROMANS 11:26-29

GOD’S CALLING AND GIFTS ARE IRREVOCABLE

THE CHANGELESS PROMISE OF THE COVENANT;

GAL. 3:15-18

GOD KEPT HIS PROMISE TO ABRAHAM (GEN. 17:7,8) – HE HAS NOT REVOKED IT, THOUGH THOUSANDS OF YEARS HAVE PASSED. HE SAVED ABRAHAM THROUGH HIS FAITH AND HE HAS BLESSED THE WORLD THROUGH ABRAHAM BY SENDING THE MESSIAH AS ONE OF HIS DESCENDANTS. CIRCUMSTANCES MAY CHANGE, BUT GOD REMAINS CONSTANT AND DOES NOT BREAK HIS PROMISES. HE HAS PROMISED TO FORGIVE OUR

SINS THROUGH JESUS CHRIST, AND WE CAN BE SURE HE WILL DO SO. ISRAEL’S REJECTION OF JESUS CHRIST; ROMANS 9:1-6 GOD’S PROMISES WERE MADE TO ABRAHAM. COVENANT PEOPLE, THE TRUE CHILDREN OF ABRAHAM, ARE NOT JUST HIS BIOLOGICAL DESCENDANTS. THEY ARE ALL THOSE WHO TRUST IN GOD AND IN WHAT JESUS CHRIST HAS DONE FOR THEM (GAL. 3:7)

THE TWO COVENANTS; GAL. 4:21 – 31

PEOPLE ARE SAVED BECAUSE OF THEIR FAITH IN CHRIST, NOT BECAUSE OF WHAT THEY DO. PAUL CONTRASTS THOSE WHO ARE ENSLAVED TO THE LAW (REPRESENTED BY HAGAR, THE SLAVE WOMAN) WITH THOSE WHO ARE FREE FROM THE LAW (REPRESENTED BY SARAH, THE FREE WOMAN). HAGAR’S ABUSE OF SARAH (GEN. 16:4) WAS LIKE THE PERSECUTION GENTILE CHRISTIANS WERE GETTING FROM THE JUDAIZERS, WHO INSISTED ON KEEPING THE LAW IN ORDER TO BE SAVED. EVENTUALLY SARAH TRIUMPHED BECAUSE HER SON WAS PROMISED BY GOD, JUST AS THOSE WHO WORSHIP CHRIST IN FAITH WILL ALSO TRIUMPH.

BROUGHT NEAR BY HIS BLOOD; EPH. 2:11-13

JEWS AND GENTILES ALIKE COULD BE GUILTY OF SPIRITUAL PRIDE – JEWS FOR THINKING THEIR CEREMONIES ELEVATED THEM ABOVE EVERYONE ELSE. GENTILES FOR FORGETTING THE HOPELESSNESS OF THEIR CONDITION APART FROM CHRIST. SPIRITUAL PRIDE BLINDS US TO OUR OWN FAULTS AND MAGNIFIES THE FAULTS OF OTHERS. BE CAREFUL NOT TO BECOME PROUD OF YOUR SALVATION. INSTEAD, HUMBLY THANK GOD FOR WHAT HE HAS DONE AND ENCOURAGE OTHERS WHO MIGHT BE STRUGGLING IN THEIR FAITH.

THE NEW COVENANT – HEBREWS 8:6-13 8:7-12

THIS PASSAGE QUOTES JEREMIAH 31:31-34 AND COMPARES THE NEW AGREEMENT WITH THE OLD. THE OLD AGREEMENT WAS THE COVENANT O FLAW BETWEEN GOD AND ISRAEL. THE NEW AND BETTER WAY IS THE COVENANT OFGRACE – CHRIST’S OFFER TO FORGIVE OUR SINS AND BRING US

TO GOD THROUGH HIS SACRIFICIAL DEATH. THIS AGREEMENT IS NEW IN EXTENT – IT GOES BEYOND ISRAEL AND JUDAH TO ALL THE GENTILE NATIONS. IT IS NEW IN APPLICATION, SINCE IT IS WRITTEN IN OUR HEARTS AND MINDS. IT OFFERS A NEW WAY TO FORGIVENESS, NOT THROUGH ANIMAL SACRIFICE BUT THROUGH FAITH. HAVE YOU ENTERED INTO THIS NEW AGREEMENT AND BEGUN WALKING IN THE BETTER WAY?

8:10,11 UNDER GOD’S NEW AGREEMENT, GOD’S LAW IS INSIDE US. THE HOLY SPIRIT REMINDS US OF CHRIST’S WORDS, QUICKENS OUR CONSCIENCES, INFLUENCES OUR MOTIVES AND DESIRES, AND MAKES US WANT TO OBEY. THE EARTHLY SANCTUARY HEBREWS 9:1-4 THE “SACRED TEXT” REFERS TO THE TABERNACLE THAT GOD INSTRUCTED MOSES TO SET UP; EX. 36 – 40 CHRIST’S DEATH PERFECTS THE SANCTIFIED HEB. 10:11-18 10:11,12 IT WAS CUSTOMARY FOR THE PRIESTS TO STAND WHILE OFFERING SACRIFICES. CHRIST’S ACT OF SITTING DOWN AT GOD’S RIGHT HAND SYMBOLIZES THE END OF THE SACRIFICIAL SYSTEM.

10:12 THE JEWISH READERS OF THIS BOOK WERE IN DANGER OF RETURNING TO THE OLD JEWISH SYSTEM, WHICH WOULD BE SAYING THAT CHRIST’S SACRIFICE WASN’T ENOUGH TO FORGIVE THEIR SINS. BUT ADDING ANYTHING TO HIS SACRIFICE OR TAKING ANYTHING FROM IT DENIES ITS VALIDITY. ANY SYSTEM TO WIN GOD’S APPROVAL THROUGH GOOD WORKS IS ESSENTIALLY REJECTING THE SIGNIFICANCE OF CHRIST’S DEATH AND SPURNING THE HOLY SPIRIT’S WORK. BEWARE OF ANYONE WHO TELLS YOU THAT CHRIST’S SACRIFICE WAS INCOMPLETE OR THAT SOMETHING ELSE IS NEEDED TO MAKE YOU ACCEPTABLE TO GOD, BECAUSE THIS CAN LEAD YOU AWAY FROM RIGHT FAITH AND RIGHT LIVING. 10:14 WE HAVE BEEN MADE PERFECT (COMPLETE IN CHRIST) BUT WE ARE BEING MADE HOLY. THROUGH HIS DEATH AND RESURRECTION, CHRIST ONCE FOR ALL MADE HIS BELIEVERS PERFECT IN GOD’S SIGHT. AT THE SAME TIME, HE IS MAKING THEM HOLY IN THEIR DAILY PILGRIMAGE HERE. WE SHOULD NOT BE SURPRISED, ASHAMED, OR SHOCKED THAT WE STILL NEED PERFECTION. GOD IS NOT FINISHED WITH US. WE CAN ENCOURAGE THIS GROWTH PROCESS BY OBEYING CHRIST, BY APPROPRIATING THE VALUES OF SCRIPTURE IN ALL AREAS OF OUR LIVES AND BY ACCEPTING THE FORGIVENESS CHRIST PROVIDES.

10:17 THE WRITER CONCLUDES HIS ARGUMENT WITH THIS POWERFUL STATEMENT THAT GOD WILL NEVER REMEMBER OUR SINS. IF, IN CHRIST, FORGIVENESS IS COMPLETE, THERE IS NO NEED TO CONTINUE THE FORMER SACRIFICIAL SYSTEM. AS BELIEVERS, WE CAN BE CONFIDENT THAT OUR SINS – PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE – HAVE BEEN FORGIVEN AND FORGOTTEN.

JESUS CHRIST IS THE MEDIATOR OF THE NEW COVENANT

HEBREWS 12:24

WHAT IS A MEDIATOR? “MESITES”, A GO-BETWEEN(FROM MESOS, MIDDLE, TO GO) IS USED IN TWO WAYS IN THE N.T.,

A) ONE WHO MEDIATES BETWEEN TWO PARTIES WITH A VIEW TO PRODUCING PEACE, AS IN I TIM. 2:5, THOUGH MORE THAN MEDIATORSHIP IS IN VIEW, FOR THE SALVATION OF MEN NECESSITATED THAT THE MEDIATOR SHOULD HIMSELF POSSESS THE NATURE AND ATTRIBUTES OF HIM TOWARDS WHOM HE ACTS, AND SHOULD LIKEWISE PARTICIPATE IN THE NATURE OF THOSE FOR WHOM HE ACTS (SIN APART); ONLY BY BEING POSSESSED BOTH OF DEITY AND HUMANITY COULD HE COMPREHEND THE CLAIMS OF THE ONE AND THE NEEDS OF THE OTHER; FURTHER, THE CLAIMS AND THE NEEDS COULD BE MET ONLY BY ONE WHO, HIMSELF BEING PROVED SINLESS, WOULD OFFER HIMSELF AN EXPIATORY SACRIFICE ON BEHALF OF MEN;

B) ONE WHO ACTS AS A GUARANTEE SO AS TO SECURE SOMETHING WHICH OTHERWISE WOULD NOT BE OBTAINED. THUS IN HEB. 8:6; 9:15; 12:24 CHRIST IS THE SURETY OF “THE BETTER COVENANT”, “THE NEW COVENANT”, GUARANTEEING ITS TERMS FOR HIS PEOPLE. IN GAL. 3:19 MOSES IS SPOKEN OF AS A MEDIATOR AND THE STATEMENT IS MADE THAT “A MEDIATOR IS NOT A MEDIATOR OF ONE” (V. 20) THAT IS, OF ONE PARTY. HERE THE CONTRAST IS BETWEEN THE PROMISE GIVEN TO ABRAHAM AND THE GIVING OF THE LAW. THE LAW WAS A COVENANT ENACTED BETWEEN GOD AND THE JEWISH PEOPLE, REQUIRING FULFILLMENT BY BOTH PARTIES. BUT WITH THE PROMISE TO ABRAHAM, ALL THE OBLIGATIONS WERE ASSUMED BY GOD, WHICH IS IMPLIED IN THE STATEMENT, “BUT GOD IS ONE” JOB. 9:33

WHY IS ABEL MENTIONED?

ABEL WAS THE FIRST HUMAN WHOSE BLOOD WAS SPILLED

GEN. 4:10,11

BENEDICTION: FINAL EXHORTATION HEB. 13:20-25 13:18,19 THE WRITER RECOGNIZED THE NEED FOR PRAYER.

CHRISTIAN LEADERS ARE ESPECIALLY VULNERABLE TO CRITICISM FROM OTHERS, PRIDE IF THEY SUCCEED, DEPRESSION IF THEY FAIL AND SATAN’S CONSTANT EFFORT TO NULLIFY THEIR WORK FOR GOD. THEY DESPERATELY NEED OUR PRAYERS! FOR WHOM SHOULD YOU REGULARLY PRAY?

13:20,21 THESE VERSE INCLUDE TWO SIGNIFICANT RESULTS OF CHRIST’S ACTION IN OUR LIVES. THE WRITER PRAYED THAT GOD WOULD 1) WORK IN THE CHRISTIANS TO PRODUCE THE KIND OF PERSONS THAT WOULD PLEASE HIM, AND 2) EQUIP THE CHRISTIANS TO DO THE KIND OF WORK THAT WOULD PLEASE HIM. LET GOD CHANGE YOU, THEN USE YOU. 13:23 WE HAVE NO RECORD OF TIMOTHY’S IMPRISONMENT BUT WE LEARN HERE THAT HE HAD BEEN RELEASED. FOR MORE ABOUT TIMOTHY, SEE HIS ‘PROFILE’ IN I TIMOTHY.

13:24, 25 HEBREWS IS A CALL TO CHRISTIAN MATURITY. IT AS ADDRESSED TO FIRST-CENTURY JEWISH CHRISTIANS BUT IT APPLIES TO CHRISTIANS OF ANY AGE OR BACKGROUND. CHRISTIAN MATURITY MEANS MAKING CHRIST THE BEGINNING AND THE END OF OUR FAITH. TO MATURE, WE MUST CENTER OUR LIVES ON HIM NOT DEPENDING ON RELIGIOUS RITUAL NOT FALLING BACK INTO SIN, NOT TRUSTING OURSELVES, AND NOT LETTING ANYTHING COME BETWEEN US AND CHRIST. ALL THIS IS BECAUSE OF THE BLOOD COVENANT OF OUR PRECIOUS SAVIOUR, THE LORD JESUS CHRIST.

THE BLOOD OF JESUS CHRIST

THE WORD ‘BLOOD’ MENTIONED 130 OR MORE TIMES IN THE OLD TESTAMENT AND ABOUT 100 TIMES IN THE NEW O.T. HEBREW, WORD ‘BLOOD’; SYMBOLIZES ‘LIFE’

PRIMARY TEACHING IN THE OLD TESTAMENT IS ITS ROLE IN THE FORGIVENESS OF SIN. THE CHILDREN OF ISRAEL PLACED BLOOD ON THE DOOR POSTS. HEBREWS 9:16-22 SAYS IT ALL; IPETER 1:2

WE ARE MADE HOLY BY THE BLOOD OF JESUS CHRIST. IN THE PAST WE HEARD DEAR OLD SAINTS PRAYING ‘THE BLOOD OF CHRIST’ OVER PEOPLE – CERTAINLY WORTH DISCUSSION AND STUDY THE BASIS OF FELLOWSHIP WITH GOD AND EACH OTHER IS BECAUSE OF THE BLOOD OF CHRIST; I JOHN 1:5-10

COMMUNION WITH THE BODY – I COR. 10:14-18

SOME INTERESTING WORDS THAT ALL HAVE THE SAME GREEK MEANING IN THE NEW TESTAMENT “KOINENIA” OR “SHARING IN COMMON”

1. FELLOWSHIP

2. COMMUNION

3. PARTAKE

4. COMMUNITY

5. DISTRIBUTION

6. PARTNER

7. COMPANION

ALL HAPPENS WITHIN THE CHURCH BECAUSE OF THE BLOOD OF CHRIST.

WE ARE ALL ONE AND YET THERE IS DIVERSITY AND WE ARE HIS BODY (CHURCH). I COR. 12:12-31

AMEN AND AMEN… ALL BECAUSE OF HIS COVENANT.

THE ESSENCE OF THE NEW COVENANT IS GRACE IN THE NEW TESTAMENT GREEK, ‘CHARIS’ = THE DIVINE INFLUENCE UPON THE HEART AND ITS REFLECTION IN LIFE…BENEFIT, FAVOUR, GIFT, JOY IN THE OLD TESTAMENT = FAVOR, PLEASANT FIRST TIME USED IN THE OLD TESTAMENT – GENESIS 6:8, “NOAH FOUND GRACE…” DEF. FOUND TO ATTAIN, TO FIND OR ACQUIRE, TO TAKE HOLD OF. MOSES FOUND GRACE. EX. 33:12 THE WORD ‘GRACE’ IS USED 37 TIMES IN THE OLD TESTAMENT.

MOST OF THE TIME IT IS USED FOR MAN FINDING GRACE OR FAVOUR WITH MAN:

STORY OF ESAU AND JACOB GEN. 33:8,10,15
STORY OF JOSEPH GEN. 47:25-29
STORY OF RUTH AND BOAZ RUTH 2:2, 10
STORY OF DAVID AND JONATHAN I SAM. 20:3 OTHER THAN WITH NOAH, THE ONLY PLACES IN THE OLD TESTAMENT WHERE GOD IS INVOLVED WITH GRACE IS IN:
PSALM 84:11
PROVERBS 3:34 “TO THE HUMBLE”
JEREMIAH 31:2 ISRAEL – WILDERNESS
ZECHARIAH 12:10 – IN A PROPHETIC SENSE N THE NEW TESTAMENT, GRACE IS MENTIONED 130 TIMES. FIRST TIME IN LUKE 2:39-40 REFERRING TO CHRIST AS A CHILD. “GRACE” IS USED 3 TIMES IN JOHN … CHAP. 1,14,16,17. REFERRING TO THE WORD BECOMING FLESH. “GRACE” IN CHRIST JESUS IS MENTIONED 126 TIMES IN CHURCH

AGE:

FIRST TIME MENTIONED AFTER CHRIST’S ASCENSION, ACTS 4:33
CONTEXT OF THE EARLY CHURCH
POWER ‘DUNAMIS’ AND GREAT GRACE WAS UPON THEM
THE REMAINING 126 TIMES ARE ALWAYS MENTIONED IN THE CONTEXT OF A POSITIVE EXPERIENCE BECAUSE OF A LOVING COVENANT GOD.

“TO BE IN FAVOUR WITH IS TO FIND GRACE WITH, EG. ACTS 2:47; HENCE IT APPEARS IN THIS SENSE AT THE BEGINNING AND THE END OF SEVERAL EPISTLES, WHERE THE WRITER DESIRES GRACE FROM GOD FOR THE READERS, ROM. 1:7; I COR. 1:3; IN THIS RESPECT IT IS CONNECTED WITH THE IMPERATIVE MOOD OF THE WORD ‘CHAIRO’ TO REJOICE, A MODE OF GREETING AMONG GREEKS, EG. ACTS 15:23; JAS. 1:1; II JOHN 10, 11,

‘GREETING’ = “GOD SPEED”.

THE FACT THAT GRACE IS RECEIVED BOTH FROM GOD THE FATHER, II COR. 1:12, AND FROM CHRIST, GAL. 1:6; ROM. 5:15 (WHERE BOTH ARE MENTIONED), IS A TESTIMONY TO THE DEITY OF CHRIST. SEE ALSO II THESS. 1:12 WHERE THE PHRASE “ACCORDING TO THE GRACE OF OUR GOD AND THE LORD JESUS CHRIST” IS TO BE TAKEN WITH EACH OF THE PRECEDING CLAUSES, “IN YOU” “AND YET IN HIM”. ~ ~ VINE

THERE ARE ONLY FOUR BOOKS IN THE ENTIRE NEW TESTAMENT THAT DO NOT REFER TO THE GRACE OF GOD: MATTHEW, MARK, I JOHN AND III JOHN GRACE, LIKE PEACE AND FAITH ARE A GIFT FROM GOD AND CANNOT BE EARNED OR PURCHASED.

I COR. 1:3,4; ROMANS 12:3; I TIM. 1:2

JESUS SAID, “MY PEACE I GIVE TO YOU” JOHN 14:27 IN JAMES 4:6, “BUT HE GIVETH MORE GRACE” (GREEK = A GREATER GRACE), THE STATEMENT IS TO BE TAKEN IN CONNECTION WITH THE PRECEDING VERSE, WHICH CONTAINS TWO REMONSTRATING, RHETORICAL QUESTIONS:

"THINK YE THAT THE SCRIPTURE SPEAKETH IN VAIN?” AND “DOTH THE SPIRIT (THE HOLY SPIRIT) WHICH HE MADE TO DWELL IN US LONG UNTO ENVYING?”

THE IMPLIED ANSWER TO EACH IS ‘IT CANNOT BE SO”. ACCORDINGLY, IF THOSE WHO ARE ACTING SO FLAGRANTLY, AS IF IT WER SO, WILL LISTEN TO THE SCRIPTURE INSTEAD OF LETTING IT SPEAK IN VAIN, AND WILL ACT SO THAT THE HOLY SPIRIT MAY HAVE HIS WAY WITHIN, GOD WILL GIVE EVEN ‘A GREATER GRACE’.”

~ ~ VINE

I COR. 12:9 “MY GRACE IS SUFFICIENT FOR YOU”; POWER ‘DUNAMIS’ OF CHRIST MAY REST ON US. IT IS VERY INTERESTING TO NOTE THAT THE WORD ‘GRACE’ ONLY APPEARS IN REVELATION AT THE BEGINNING OF THE BOOK. REV. 1:4 AND THEN AGAIN IN THE VERY LAST VERSE, REV. 22:25.

QUESTION: COULD THIS BE AN INDICATION THAT THE CHURCH

DOES NOT GO THROUGH THE TRIBULATION?

THE GRACE OF GOD IS PAID FOR BY JESUS CHRIST AND IS A:

1. GIFT ROMANS 12:3

2. IS SUFFICIENT TO MEET ALL OUR NEEDS

3. GIVES US THE ABILITY TO HELP MEET THE NEEDS OF OTHERS ACTS 4:33

4. IT IS THROUGH THE GRACE OF GOD THAT WE ARE SAVED ACTS 15:11

5. WE HAVE RECEIVED GRACE FOR OBEDIENCE OT THE FAITH ROMANS 1:5

6. WE ARE JUSTIFIED FREELY AND WITHOUT ANY COST BY HIS GRACE ROMANS 3:24

7. DEATH IN ADAM; LIFE IN CHRIST – ‘GRACE’ MENTIONED FOUR TIMES IN ROMANS 5:15-21

8. GRACE IS GRACE ROM. 11:5,6 ISRAEL’S REJECTION NOT TOTAL

9. BY THE GRACE OF GOD WE ARE WHO WE ARE I COR. 15:10

10. GRACE CAUSES US TO BE THANKFUL II COR. 4:15

11. GOD IS ABLE TO MAKE ALL GRACE ABOUND, IN THE CONTEXT OF FINANCIAL GIVING II COR. 9:8,14

12. RIGHTEOUSNESS COMES THROUGH CHRIST, NOT THE LAW GAL. 2:21

13. PAUL OPENS EPHESIANS WITH ANOTHER STATEMENT COMBINING GRACE AND PEACE EPHESIANS 1:2,6,7

14. EVERY BELIEVER HAS RECEIVED SPIRITUAL GIFTS THROUGH GOD’S GRACE EPH. 4:7, 29

15. WE ARE ALL PARTAKERS (KOINENIA) OF GOD’S GRACE PHIL. 1:7

16. WE ARE TO SING AND HAVE OUR SPEECH IN THE GRACE OF OUR LORD COL. 3:16,17; 4:6

17. THE NAME OF OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST BE GLORIFIED IN US ACCORDING TO GRACE.

18. GRACE, MERCY, PEACE – AGAIN GIFTS FROM CHRIST I TIM. 1:2; II JOHN 3; TITUS 1:4; PHIL. 3

19. GRACE, FAITH, LOVE ARE FROM JESUS CHRIST I TIM. 1:14

20. WE ARE TOLD TO COME BOLDLY TO THE THRONE OF GRACE HEB. 4:16

21. HE GIVES MORE GRACE TO THE HUMBLE JAMES 4:16; I PETER 5:5

22. A WORD TO HUSBANDS… MEN, THIS IS A HUGE VERSE OF INSTRUCTION I PETER 3:7

23. GRACE AND PEACE BE MULTIPLIED TO YOU IN THE KNOWLEDGE OF GOD AND JESUS OUR LORD II PETER 1:2

CONCLUSION:

WHY IS GOD A COVENANT GOD?

1. GOD IN HIS WISDOM CREATED US WITH THE POWER OF CHOICE. GENESIS 3

THE GARDEN OF EDEN WAS HEAVEN ON EARTH. WE WERE SINLESS AND THERE WAS ABUNDANCE.

2. ADAM AND EVE WERE TEMPTED BY SATAN, WHO HIMSELF WAS EXPELLED FROM HEAVEN FOR THE SAME REASON HE TEMPTED EVE…. HE WANTED TO BE LIKE GOD. EZK. 28:11-19; ISA. 14:12-15

3. GOD IS A GOD OF EMOTIONS. GOD SAW THE SIN OF MAN AND DID NOT WANT HIS SPIRIT TO ABIDE WITH MA FOREVER GEN. 6:3

GOD WAS SORRY THAT HE HAD CREATED MAN AND WANTED TO DESTROY HIS CREATION. GEN. 6:5-7 BUT FOR THE SAKE OF THE REPENTANCE, OBEDIENCE AND FAITH OF ONE MAN, WE WOULD NOT BE HERE…NOAH. GEN 6 – 8

GOD KNEW THAT HE WOULD HAVE TO MAKE A COVENANT WITH MAN NEVER TO DESTROY THE WHOLE EARTH AGAIN WITH A FLOOD GEN. 6:18

IT IS A GOOD THING HE DID BECAUSE HIS ANGER AGAINST SIN CAUSED HIM TO DESTROY SODOM AND GOMORRAH. GEN. 19

REASON FOR DEUT. 8:18-20

THE LORD KNEW THAT MONEY WOULD PROBABLY BE THE NUMBER ONE CHALLENGE IN OUR LIVES. THE WORD ‘CONTENTMENT’ IS USED SEVEN TIMES IN THE NEW TESTAMENT WITH SIX TIMES IN REFERENCE TO MONEY. DIVORCE IS IN THE 50-60% RANGE TODAY AND ACCORDING TO BARNA, THE NUMBER ONE REASON FOR DIVORCE IS AROUND 70% BEING MONEY AND FOR THOSE WHO REMAIN MARRIED, MONEY IS BY FAR THE NUMBER ONE CHALLENGE.

EXCERPT FROM LEE GRADY, EDITOR OF CHARISMA MAGAZINE

“GOD IS SHAKING US”

“THE NOTION THAT GOD BLESSES US SO WE CAN BE ABLESSING IS BIBLICAL, BUT WHAT IS NEEDED IS A SHIFT TO A MORE SELFLESS MOVEMENT WHERE PEOPLE REALIZE THAT GOD WANTS TO BLESS US SO THAT WE CAN FEED THE POOR, CARE FOR THE WIDOWS AND ORPHANS AND PROVIDE FOR OUR FAMILIES AND TRANSFORM SOCIETY!”

PROV. 19:17 JAMES 1:26,27

THE LOVE OF MONEY IS THE ROOT OF ALL KINDS OF EVIL

I TIM. 6:10

THE FIRST ORIGINAL SIN MUST HAVE BEEN ASSOCIATED WITH THE QUEST FOR RICHES. “THE LOVE OF MONEY IS SIMPLY THE LUST FOR MATERIAL

POSSESSIONS, WHICH MONEY IS USED TO OBTAIN. IT LIVES AND BREEDS IN THE BUSINESS, GOVERNMENT, CHURCHES AND PERSONAL ARENA AND HAS BEEN THE ROOT SOURCE OF EVIL FROM THE FIRST TIME THAT UNRIGHTEOUSNESS WAS FOUND AMONG THE HEAVENLY HOST.” NORM FRANZ

THE ACT OF PRIDE GOES BEFORE DESTRUCTION PROV. 16:18-20

SEVEN SINS ARE AN ABOMINATION TO GOD – PRIDE IS LISTED

FIRST PROV. 6:16-19

SIN WAS FIRST COMMITTED BY LUCIFER ISAIAH 14:12-21

LUCIFER’S ORIGINAL SIN… “THE PROPHET EZEKIEL EXPLAINS HOW LUCIFER’S ABUNDANCE OF TRADE CAUSED INIQUITY TO BE FOUND IN HIM, WHICH LED HIM TO COMMIT THE FIRST SIN” NORM FRANZ

YOU {LUCIFER} WERE IN EDEN EZ. 28:11-19

EZEKIEL GOES ON TO POINT OUT HOW LUCIFER’S LUST FORFINANCIAL ABUNDANCE COMBINED WITH HIS PHYSICAL BEAUTY PRODUCED A VANITY THAT CORRUPTED HIS GOD-GIVEN WISDOM.

“ABUNDANCE OF YOUR TRADING” V. 16; 18

TRADING = MERCHANDISE AND BUSINESS

TYRE WAS A PORT CITY NORTH OF CARMEL AND WAS A LEADING CENTER OF COMMERCE…

KING OF TYRE, V. 11; 12

EZEKIEL SPEAKS WITH COURAGE

A RICHES TO RAGS STORY (ISAIAH 14:3-23)

PROVERBS 16:18 REMINDS US THAT PRIDE COMES BEFORE A FALL AND THAT A HAUGHTY SPIRIT CAUSES ONE TO STUMBLE. WE SEE THE TRUTH IN ACTION IN ISAIAH 14. WHILE WE SEE THE IMMEDIATE FULFILLMENT OF THIS PASSAGE IN THE KING OF BABYLON, MANY SCHOLARS BELIEVETHE TEXT SPEAKS OF SATAN. NOTE THE ARROGANT WORDS IN VS. 12 – 17. WHAT A SOBERING PICTURE OF A LEADER WHO GOES ASTRAY! BOTH THE OPPRESSIVE KING AND SATAN HAD ONE COMMON CHARACTERISTIC: A LUST FOR PRIDE AND POWER. CONSIDER THE DEVIL’S FALL FROM HIS ORIGINAL PLACE IN HEAVEN, AS DESCRIBED IN ISAIAH 14, EZEKIEL 28 AND REVELATION 12 AND 20.

1. THE ONE CAST DOWN (TO THE BOTTOMLESS PIT)

(IS. 14:15; REV. 12:10; 20:3)

2. FULL OF WISDOM (EZEK. 28:12)

3. PERFECT IN BEAUTY (EZEK. 28:12)

4. SONG LEADER AND MUSICIAN OF HEAVEN

(EZEK. 28:13)

5. THE ANOINTED CHERUB (EZEK. 28:14)

6. ONE WHO COVERED THE THRONE (EZEK. 28:14,16)

7. GREAT DRAGON (REV. 12:9)

8. THE SERPENT (REV. 12:9; 20:2)

9. THE DEVIL; THE SPIRIT OF DECEPTION (REV. 12:9; 20:10)

10. ACCUSER OF THE BRETHREN (REV. 20:10)

AGAIN, POWER OF CHOICE… SATAN TEMPTED ADAM AND EVE

– THE RESULT BEING THE FALL OF MAN

JUDE 9 – PERHAPS MICHAEL, THE ARCHANGEL (CHIEF) KNEW OF THE POWER OF SATAN; ARCHANGEL IS ONLY A NEW TESTAMENT WORD

I THESS. 4:16 CONTEXT IS THE LORD’S RETURN

EZEKIEL 28:14 – SATAN IS MENTIONED AS THE ANOINTED CHERUB; ANOINTED MEANING ‘UNCERTAIN EXPANSION’ THE TERM ‘ANOINTING OIL’ COMES FORM THIS HEBREW ROOT

WHAT THE BIBLE HAS TO SAY ABOUT MONEY

GOD’S FINANCIAL PLAN

FACTS:

1. JESUS APPEARED 132 TIMES IN THE NEW TESTAMENT, 122 OF THOSE WERE IN THE MARKETPLACE

2. 16 OF 38 PARABLES THAT JESUS CHRIST TAUGHT DEAL WITH MONEY MANAGEMENT.

3. MORE IS SAID IN THE NEW TESTAMENT ABOUT MONEY THAN HEAVEN AND HELL COMBINED.

4. FIVE TIMES MORE IS SAID ABOUT MONEY THAN PRAYER AND FAITH COMBINED. (MONEY IS MENTIONED IN APPROXIMATELY 2000 VERSES; PRAYER AND FAITH FOUND IN ABOUT 500 VERSES)

5. JESUS CHRIST EQUATED THE ABILITY TO MANAGE FINANCIAL RESOURCES WITH THE ABILITY TO HANDLE SPIRITUAL RESOURCES (LUKE 16:10-13)

MONEY HAS THE POWER TO TAKE THE PLACE OF GOD IN OUR LIVES

MASTERING GOD’S MONEY:

KEY POINT: EITHER YOU MASTER MONEY OR MONEY WILL MASTER YOU

KEY POINT: MONEY IS NOT EVIL, BUT THE LOVE OF IT IS.

I TIM. 6:6-10; PROV. 10:22

BLESSINGS ON OBEDIENCE

DEUT. 28:1-14

THE KEY OT GOD’S BLESSING IS OBEDIENCE. WE ARE TO BE THE HEAD, NOT THE TAIL; V. 11-14

THE WAY TO PLEASE GOD IS THROUGH FAITH; HEB. 11:6

DO NOT PRAY FOR FAITH… ACT UPON WHAT GOD HAS GIVEN YOU. ROM. 12:3

MEASURE = METRON = METRIC… A MEASURE OR PORTION

THINK ABOUT THIS….

GOD WILL RENDER TO EVERY MAN ACCORDING TO HIS DEEDS, ROM. 2:4-6

THROUGH THE SCRIPTURES, WE DETECT A PATTERN WHENEVER NATIONS TURN AWAY FROM GOD. HE SENT THEM WARNING THROUGH PROPHETS. IF THE PEOPLE DID NOT RESPOND, GOD OFTEN SENT VIOLENT STORMS, DRASTIC WEALTH CHANGES, PLAGUES, ETC. IF THAT DID NOT WORK, ONE FINAL MESSAGE HE INUNDATED THEM WITH WAS PROSPERITY. IT WAS HIS LAST MERCY CALL. EXAMPLES: NOAH AND LOT LUKE 17:26-30 EZEKIEL 16:44-59 DESCRIBES WESTERN DEMOCRACIES TODAY JOSIAH WAS ONLY 18 YEARS OF AGE WHEN HE REALIZED THAT HIS NATION HAD GRIEVED GOD BY THEIR IDOLATRY II KINGS 22:11-17

KING JOSIAH TORE DOWN IDOLS AND PAGAN TEMPLES, DROVEOUT WITCHES, ENDED CHILD SACRIFICE, WIPED OUR HOMOSEXUALITY AND PROMISCUOUS SEX AND CALLED THE ENTIRE NATION BACK TO GOD. II KINGS 23 MAN’S REPENTANT HEART CAN CHANGE THE MIND OF GOD.

THINK ABOUT THIS… THE WORD ‘REPENTED’ (HEBREW DEF. ‘SORRY, REGRET, BE COMFORTED, TO PITY’) USED OF GOD

MORE THAN OF MAN IN THE OLD TESTAMENT. A CHANGE IN MAN’S CONDUCT COULD BRING ABOUT A CHANGE IN GOD’S JUDGMENT. GOD IS FREE OF SIN BUT HIS MERCY ENDURES FOREVER 1. GEN. 6:6,7 – REPENTED (SORRY) MERCY... 120 YEARS TO

REPENT; NOAH FOUND GRACE

2. EX. 32:13-16 GOD REMEMBERING ABRAHAM AS MOSES WAS GIVEN THE TEN COMMANDMENTS DURING A TIME OF REBELLION BY GOD’S CHOSEN PEOPLE

3. I SAM. 15:35 THE LORD REPENTED THAT HE HAD MADESAUL KING OVER ISRAEL

4. JOHN 3:10 GOD REPENTED OF HIS DECISION TO DESTROY NINEVEH GOD IS SOVEREIGN AND HE ALONE MAKES THE DECISION PROV. 22:27-28

QUESTION: CAN THE REPENTANCE OF HIS PEOPLE CHANGE THE TIME OF HIS RETURN?

ANSWER: I DO NOT KNOW, BUT I DO KNOW THIS THAT “HE ISNOT WILLING THAT ANY SHOULD PERISH BUT THAT ALL SHOULD COME TO REPENTANCE”. II PETER 3:9

MAY WE BECOME AND LIVE AS GOD’S COVENANT PEOPLE.

HOW?

REPENTANCE ~~ OBEDIENCE~~ FAITH

GOD’S WORD IS GOD’S COVENANT. ALL OF US, JEWS AND CHRISTIANS ALIKE, DEPEND ON GOD’S PATIENCE AS WE STRIVE TO BE FAITHFUL TO THE COVENANT AND TO SEE THE WHOLE WORLD ACCEPT JESUS CHRIST. AMEN.

One of the Most Amazing Stories You'll Ever Hear

dougmorneau@marzany.com (Doug Morneau) — Wed, 02 Aug 2023 01:18:05 GMT

The Amazing Story of King Hezekiah and the Temple - A Podcast Teaching Series

When it’s not in God’s time, you can’t force it,

When it is God’s time, you can’t stop it.

We learn from history that everything needs a solid foundation.

“Who will save us now that the monster COVID-19 has broken free? The pandemic has humbled the country and the world and has opened up millions of eyes to this risky universe once more. For societies founded on Biblical traditions, pandemics need not make for the end, this is a call for repentance and revival. Great struggles can produce great clarity.” ~~ The Wall Street Journal

The Wall Street Journal was honest and correct.

“To recognize and receive the wondrous truth of being God’s Temple is the beginning of walking and living a supernatural life!” ~~ Michael Ellison

INTRODUCTION

The Miracle of You and Me as God’s Temple.

We are made up of three parts: (I Thess. 5:23)

· Body / Physical

· Soul / Emotional

· Spirit / Spiritual

Solomon’s Temple:

· Courtyard

· Holy Place

· Holy of Holies

Unlike Solomon’s Temple, which was made of brick and mortar, God formed each of us and knew us in our mother’s womb (Jeremiah 1:5). We are also told that we are fearfully and wonderfully made (Psalm 139:14). God also knows the number of hairs in His temple (Luke 12:7).

Here is an amazing Biblical Truth: the word atonement is mentioned 130 times in the Old Testament but is mentioned in the New Testament only once. ‘Atonement’ means ‘restoration to a Divine Favor”. (Romans 5:11).

“The DNA in one cell in the human body holds the equivalent of roughly 800 books of information. A typical human body has about one hundred trillion cells, each of which has a DNA strand that could be uncoiled to about three meters in length. Thus, if the DNA in one adult human were strung together, it would stretch from the earth to the sun and back about 70 times!”. ~~~ Josh MacDowell.

How Then Shall we Live today?

The Bible is by far the world’s bestseller. Over six billion copies have been sold and it continues to be the #1 bestseller, with approximately 100 million sold every year (the New Yorker). The Bible will change your life if you read it and obey it ( I Peter 1:23).

Bible sales are booming, despite a decline in religiosity. A first-time buyer says it about finding purpose.

Did you Know Your Body is God’s Temple?

“Do you not know that you are the temple of God and that the Spirit of God dwells in you? If anyone denies the temple of god, God will destroy him. For the temple of God is holy, which temple are you.” I Cor. 3:16,17

The World Needs Revival and Repentance

(The Wall Street Journal)

The Story of King Hezekiah

Hezekiah became king at age 25 after his disobedient father, Ahaz, who hated God, died. (II Kings 16) King Hezekiah (embracer) became an encourager despite the evil culture he had inherited.

It’s one amazing story! King Hezekiah inherited his country in a terrible state. The first thing he did was to repair the brick and mortar Temple and then to celebrate Passover which had not been celebrated in over 200 years. God’s blessing and revival then returned the country to abundance and good health. Great application for today. The rest of this story can be found in chapter 13 of my book, “Your Body is God’s Temple”.

King Hezekiah’s Action Plan:

1. The first month of his reign he opened the door to the temple; II Chron. 28:24; 29:3

2. He brought in the priests and Levites and charged them to sanctity themselves and the temple; II Chron. 29:4-11. Hezekiah intended to restore the covenant relationship that Judah as supposed to have with god. Hezekiah instructed the priest and Levites to cleanse the temple physically and spiritually. Who were the Levites?

3. Confessed and acknowledge the sins of his father for which judgment had come against Judah; 29:6-9. God gave the same warning to Solomon in I Kings 9:6-9 and Deut. 28 and on…

a. Blessings on obedience

b. Curses on disobedience

Three Steps of Preparation for Passover:

1. He purged idols from Jerusalem

2. Sprinkled blood

3. Repented of sin (II Chron. 30:1-4). Application: we celebrate Communion/the Lord’s Table/Eucharist, not with the blood of lambs but because of the body and blood of Jesus Christ whose spirit now dwells within us as His Temple. We also need to prepare for Communion ( I Cor. 11:26-29).

Hezekiah honoured and kept the Passover. Here is what God did:

1. Repentance of sin and the Lord forgave all.

2. God healed the people physically.

3. There was a great time of worship/praise and joy.

4. The Word of God was taught.

5. The people were blessed and their prayers went right to Heaven (II Chron. 30:15-27). Application: when we do not prepare for communion Biblically, many are:

a. Weak

b. Sick

c. Asleep (dead) ( I Cor. 11:30) remember, by His stripes, we are healed; Isa. 53:4-6; Matt. 8:17: I Peter 2:24)

6. God restored financial abundance (II Chron. 31:14-15). Application: God wishes to bless us today with health and abundance. (III John 2)

7. The King encouraged His people to trust the Lord. Application: we are encouraged to trust the Lord. (Proverbs 3:5-8).

8. The King led in prayer and built up the walls around Jerusalem in defense against his enemy Sennacherib, and the King was assured that Isaiah the prophet would defined Jerusalem. The angel of the Lord, in one night, wiped out the entire army of Sennacherib, totaling 185,0000 soldiers (II Kings 19:20-37). Application: God will protect us (Isaiah 41:10; II Timothy 4:18). Faith without works is dead. (James 2:24-26)

Conclusion

King Hezekiah humbled himself before God and confessed the pride of sin in his life (II Chron. 32:26). Application: we must do the same and like Hezekiah did, began with repairing our bodies like they are God’s Temple:

· Physically

· Emotionally

· Spiritually

Alert! Alert! Alert! If anyone is interested in joining a Global Faith and Prayer Movement to ask god to heal (divine intervention) our land and do miracles in our lives, regardless of the situation, feel free to contact me.

Remember! Our bodies, God has made His temple and HE lives within us. What an awesome thought!

For more information on Barry’s book, “Your Body is God’s Temple” and for podcast teaching dates, please go to: https://www.solomonsporchteaching.com

My prayer: when we apply the principles that God led King Hezekiah to do, and remember the first thing he did, was to repair the Temple, then he placed himself and then his country in the favour of God. I believe God will honour us in the same way.

Shalom,

Barry Borthistle

A Spiritual Entrepreneur with a Biblical Worldview

www.solomonsporchteaching.com

Your Body is Designed by God

Tue, 01 Aug 2023 16:49:32 GMT

Your Body is God's Temple

SOLOMONSPORCHTEACHING.COM

YOUR BODY IS GOD’S TEMPLE

THE AMAZING LIFE CHANGING TRUTH!

God created you to be His temple. “Do you not know that you are the Temple of God and that the Spirit of God dwells in you.” I Cor. 3:16

Faith Based Ministry is now the # 1 podcast in the world. Joe Rogan is now # 2(Wall Street Journal).

Bible sales have nearly doubled since Covid. Why? Many people are very concerned about the future and they are living in fear (Bloomberg).

INTRODUCTION

Unlike Solomon’s Temple, which was made of brick and mortar, God formed each of us and knew us in our mother’s womb (Jer. 1:5). We are also told that we are fearfully and wonderfully made (Psa. 139:14). God also knows the number of hairs on his temple (Luke 12:7).

“Before I formed thee in the belly I knew thee; and before thou camest forth out of the womb I sanctified thee, and I ordained thee a

prophet unto the nations.” Jer. 1:5

“I will praise thee; for I am fearfully and wonderfully made; marvelous are thy works; and that my soul knoweth right well.” Psa. 139:14

Here is how God created you as His temple.

“The DNA in one cell in the human body holds the equivalent of roughly 800 books of information. A typical human body has about one hundred

trillion cells, each of which has a DNA strand that could be uncoiled to about three meters in length. Thus, if the DNA in one adult human were

strung together it would stretch from Earth to the Sun and back about 70 times.” ~~ Josh MacDowell

Apostle Paul, in Colossians 1:24-27, wrote about this truth as the mystery that has been hidden from the ages and generations. Now uncovered for all is the riches of the magnificence of this mystery, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory.

“To recognize and receive the wondrous truth of being God’s Temple is the beginning of walking and living a supernatural life!” ~~ Michael Ellison

God created you in three parts. All three need daily nourishment.

 Spiritual

 Emotional

 Physical

“And the very God of peace sanctify you wholly; and I pray God our whole spirit and soul and body be preserved blameless unto the coming

of our Lord Jesus Christ”. I Thess. 5:23

PEACE WITH GOD

Here is an amazing Biblical truth: the Word ‘atonement’ is mentioned 130 times in the Old Testament but only once is it mentioned in the New Testament. ‘Atonement’ means ‘restoration to a Divine Favor” in the New Testament.

“And not only so, but we also joy in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom we have now received the atonement”. Romans 5:11

TWO WAYS TO THANK GOD FOR HIS LOVE TO US

WHAT DOES IT MEAN THAT God inhabits the praise of this people? Psalm 22:3

Scripture repeatedly affirms that individual believers are “the Temple of the living God” and “Temple of the Holy Spirit” where God’s presence dwells – I Cor. 6:16-20. The whole church is joined together and rises to become a Holy Temple in the Lord…. Built together to become a dwelling place in which “God lives by His spirit”, explains Paul in Eph. 2:21,22. The church fits together like “living stones” built into a “spiritual house” that offer “spiritual sacrifices” of praise.

HOW TO LIVE YOUR LIFE AS GOD’S TEMPLE

My three books:

 YOUR BODY IS GOD’S TEMPLE

 SPIRITUAL AUTHORITY

 33 THINGS THE HOLY SPIRIT WANTS TO DO FOR YOU

Go www.solomonsporchteaching.com to order

We are made up in three parts, spiritual, emotional and physical; I Thess. 5:23 and all 3 require daily nourishment.

“To recognize and receive the wondrous truth of being God’s Temple is the beginning of walking and living a supernatural life”. ~~ Michael Ellison

There are at least 33 things the Holy Spirit will do for you, because you are His Temple. He is the power behind the God-given spiritual authority. Imagine that the Holy Spirit will pray for you! Imagine the power of this!

Romans 8:26-28. However, it is very important to understand that the Holy Spirit desperately wants a relationship with us. Ephesians 4:23-32. And it is

important to remember that the Holy Spirit is part of the Trinity:

 God the Father

 God the son

 God the Holy Spirit

The Holy Spirit was sent by Jesus Christ in His last words on earth; Acts 1:7,8. Grace and faith are gifts from God; Romans 12:3. Do not ask God for more grace and faith – thank Him and praise Him for what HE is giving you and then follow Him. Peace is also a gift because Christ Jesus gave us His peace; John 14:27

Jesus promised to always be with us; His presence - Matt. 28:20

God has given us everything we need for life and Godliness; II Peter 1:3. Because of His Divine Power (dunamis, word for the Holy Spirit, meaning

miraculous power), God has given us all things we need to live Godly lives. We have the mind of Christ; I Cor. 2:16. Because we are the Temple of God, we can have true wisdom; I Cor. 2:6-16

Virtue – moral goodness – went out from Jesus Christ and He healed a great multitude and cast our demons; Luke 6:17-19 Understanding that I am God’s Temple has radically changed my life.

1. Add to your faith – remember, faith is a gift

2. Virtue – moral goodness

3. Knowledge – discernment to fully perceive God’s Word; Psa. 119:11

4. Temperance – self control

5. Patience – perfects Christian character – James 1:2-9

6. Godliness – an attitude that is well pleasing to God

7. Brotherly love – love of people

8. Charity – agape love. “Now abideth faith, hope, charity… but the greatest

of these is charity”. I Cor. 13

The results of obedience to Almighty God that comes when you live life as the Temple of God:

“For if you possess these qualities in increasing measure, they will keep you from being ineffective and unproductive in your knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. But whoever does not have them is nearsighted and blind, forgetting that they have been cleansed from their past sins.” II Peter 1:8

“For if these things be in you and abound, they make you that ye shall neither be barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. But he that lacketh these things is blind and cannot see afar off, and hath forgotten that he was purged from his old sins”. II Peter 1:9

There are 7 words that have the same meaning of Koinonia:

1. Partakers

2. Communion

3. Fellowship

4. Contribution

5. Distribution

6. Partner

7. Communication

“The Bible has all the answers we need if we would only read it and obey it”. ~~ President Ronald Reagan

Amos prophesied that in the Last Days there will be a famine of the Word of God; 8:11,12.

Repentance is the key to receive the fabulous promises of God.

As you live your life as the Temple of God, how important is repentance?

Consider that repentance was the theme of the first sermons preached by:

 John the Baptist Matt. 3:2

 Jesus Christ Matt. 4:17

 Apostle Peter Acts 2:38

Repentance is the foundation of Christianity. Hebrews 6:1

How important is repentance?

“Without repentance there is no salvation but repentance does not end with salvation.”

~~ Dr. Martyn-Lloyd Jones

“A repentant attitude upon a life will bring God’s special blessing.”

~~ David Wilkerson

God says, “I WILL IF YOU WILL…”. The word ‘if’ is used over 1600 times.

Jesus used the word ‘if’ all the time. Almost half of the occurrences in the New Testament are in the four Gospels. Jesus always put the word ‘if’ on man’s responsibility and never on God’s side. The following are some of the biggest‘ifs’ in the Word of God:

 IF we do four things, God will heal (divine intervention) our land – II Chron. 7:13-15

 Most exciting Scripture – John 15:11-17 – “IF” is used 5 times – ‘abide’ (to

dwell) – 8 times; 8 is the number of new beginnings (Noah)

 There is no darkness in God if we obey these 5 things: I John 1:5-10

 IF you do not forgive others, the Lord cannot forgive you. Matt. 6:14,15. Since your body is God’s Temple, the Lord cannot tolerate unconfessed sin.

 God cannot hear your prayers if there is iniquity in your heart. But God will forgive so He can hear our prayers. Praise God – HE is holy and dwells in

the praises of HIS people. Ps. 22:3

The Story of King Hezekiah (Wall Street Journal was correct)

Hezekiah became king at 25 after his disobedient father Ahaz, who hated God, died. II Kings 16). King Hezekiah was called the greatest king ever. II Kings 18:1-9. This story is told in chapter 13 of my book, “Your Body is God’s Temple”. In all, the king made 25 key decisions which can apply to us today for revival. This is an incredible Biblical story on how God reacted when His people cared for the brick and mortar temple. The key point here is how much more important this principle is today given that we are now God’s Temple.

Major Decisions Made by the King:

The first thing Hezekiah did was to repair the Temple of God. II Chron. 29:3-11.

Application: the best way for us to begin to repair our bodies – God’s Temple – is to repent from sin (I John 1:5-10). There are five ‘ifs’ which means ‘our decision’. Hezekiah was a God-fearing man (II Chron. 29:2) God give us the same choice today – ‘choose you this day whom you will serve’. Joshua 24:14,15

The people celebrated Passover with great joy, as we should in Communion.

I Cor. 11:17-34

Hezekiah restored the Passover which had not been celebrated in about 200 years.

The three steps of preparation for Passover were:

1. He purged idols from Jerusalem

2. Blood was sprinkled

3. Repentance of sin; II Chron. 30:1-4.

Hezekiah honoured and kept the Passover and here is what God did:

1. God forgave all who repented of their sin

2. God healed the people physically

3. There was a great time of worship/praise and joy

4. The Word of God was taught

5. The people were blessed and their prayers went right to Heaven

(II Chron. 30:15-27)

CONCLUSION:

As I understand with my life experiences, living as God’s Temple, that the Lord responds to at least four major principles:

1. Repentance. God cannot hear our prayers if we do not repent nor can He have fellowship with us; Psa. 66:18-20; I John 1:5-10

2. Obedience demonstrates our faith and trust in God. “Obedience is better than sacrifice”. I Samuel 15:22

3. Faith. “Without faith, it is impossible to please God”. Hebrews 11:6

4. Praising the Lord, despite our problems. Why? “God dwells in the praises of His people.”. Psa. 22:3. DAVID TELLS US TO PRAISE GOD 7 TIMES A

DAY; Psalm 119:164.

A good way to do this is to simply say the word, HALLELUJAH! Why seven? Seven is the number of completion and is mentioned over 700 times. HALLELUJAH means to PRAISE THE LORD. It is the only word that I know that is pronounced the same in every language on earth today! AMAZING!!

COMMUNION

Communion, like so many essential points of Biblical doctrine, has fallen into the mire of tradition.

The Lord’s Table is the only Biblical celebration in the New Testament.

Consider our preparation for Christmas… dozens, if not, hundreds of hours.

COMMUNION – 10 – 15 minutes once a month in most churches with little knowledge of what we are doing.

Read: I Cor. 11:17-34

Principles we should consider about Communion:

1. Communion is the only New Testament Biblical celebration

2. Consider the time we take to prepare for Communion in contrast to Christmas, Anniversaries, Vacations

3. Consider the time of preparation – most churches spend 15 – 20 minutes once a month and in some cases, even less

4. Consider the Passover celebration which was the celebration of deliverance

from slavery. Egypt is a symbol of the world and sin in the OId Testament; last 7 days – Exodus 12

5. Consider when Solomon finished the temple, they had a 7 day celebration and the glory of the Lord filled the temple; II Chron. 7:1-11

6. Consider our reason for celebration; we are now joint heirs of God; Romans 8:12-17 and we are led the by Holy Spirit

7. Consider now our bodies become the new temple of the Holy Spirit; I Cor. 6:15-20

8. Consider our deliverance from sin and slavery through the precious blood of Jesus Christ; Rom. 6:20-23

What is the difference between a paycheck and a gift? You earn a paycheck, but you receive a gift. In Romans 6:23, Paul teaches that the payment, the unavoidable consequence we earned because of sin, is death. What a relief that God offers to every individual the gift – something we cannot earn – of eternal life in Jesus Christ. If you have received this gift, thank God for His generosity and grace! If you have not yet received God’s gift of eternal life, I encourage you to ask Him for it. He will gladly give it to you!

9. Consider the love of God. After Adam and Eve sinned God began a process of REDEMPTION. "Life point: Adam did what God told him not to do (Gen.3:1-6). As a result, Adam became a captive of Satan, who had lured him into going against God’s word. By listening to Satan instead of to God,

Adam surrendered to Satan the authority to rule the earth that God had originally given to man. Always listen to God and obey His Word."

The process always required the shedding of blood. The life is in the blood; Lev. 17:14 No blood means no life. Life is a spiritual substance but must have a physical carrier. Our bodies are the temple of the Holy Spirit; I Cor. 6:18-20

We are made up of three parts; body – soul - spirit; I Thess. 5:23

Do we really know who we are and the authority that we have in and through JESUS CHRIST?

“Life requires vast amounts of information… the key feature to life is information. Life, even the simplest of bacterial cells, req1uires vast amount f of

information to function. Cellular information is stored in DNA. The DNA in one cell in the human body holds the equivalent of roughly 8000 books of information. A typical human body has about 100 trillion cells, each of which has a DNA strand that could be uncoiled to about three meters in length. Thus, if the DNA in an adult human were strung together, it would stretch from earth to the sun and back around 70 times!” (Josh McDowell)

Psalm 139:13-16 “we are fearfully and wonderfully made”.

“fearfully” = reverence; to revere (Hebrew)

“wonderfully” = marvelous; distinguish; set apart

TEN BIBLICAL PRINCIPLES YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT GOD’S LOVE

OF CELEBRATION IN COMMUNION

1. REDEMPTION – Abraham and Isaac – Gen. 22. Abraham took his only son and was willing to sacrifice him. But the love of God intervened. However,

God did not spare His Son, Jesus Christ. Also, God provided a blood sacrifice for Abraham through a ram (the best of lambs), whose head was

stuck in a thicket; Gen. 22:13. Christ’s head was crowned in thorns.

Interesting this all happened on the third day of His journey; v. 4 Jesus rose the third day.

2. The only way Pharaoh would set the children of Israel free was through the death of all first born, including animals. Ex. 11

LIFE IS IN THE BLOOD

3. Before the event of the killing of the first born, God gave the Egyptians plenty of time and warning, with the plagues, to repent. Egypt had ten

gods and each plague attacked one of their gods. Interesting, the New Testament tells us that there were 10 attempts to kill Jesus. In each case,

deliverance came with the spilling of blood. Our God is still a God of love and does not want any to perish. II Peter 3:9,10

4. The Lord protected and saved people by the blood of the doorpost; Ex. 12:6, 7; is the Hebrew letter for life; worn as a necklace in Israel like we wear a cross.

Very interesting – Ex. 12:35-38 indicates that mixed multitude went with Israel and were included in the 600,000 men plus families. This means that

non-Israel people would have to believe in the God of Israel and had the Blood on the doorposts. Numbers 4 tells us these mixed peoples complained and wanted to go back to Israel as well. This story is another great example that Jesus Christ opens the door to all; II Peter 3:9

5. The Passover lamb had to be perfect and without blemish for the sacrificeand also be a male; Ex. 12:5

blemish = integrity, complete; perfect, without spot; whole; undefiled

The lambs for the sacrifice were bred, born and raised in Bethlehem, where the perfect lamb was born and now take away the sins of the world. John 1:29…. As prophesied in Isaiah 53:7. PRAISE THE LORD!

6. Why did the perfect lamb, Jesus Christ, ride a donkey into Jerusalem on Palm Sunday?

 It was promised in Zech. 9:9,10

 When a king rode on a donkey, it was a sign of peace; just like Abraham did in Gen. 22:3

 When Jesus Christ comes back, He will ride on a white horse in judgement; Rev. 19:11-16

7. What gate did Jesus ride into Jerusalem on Palm Sunday? The Eastern Gate, which is now shut and has been for about 1500 years. There have

been many attempts to open it but all failed. Jesus Christ will return through this gate; Ezekiel 44:1-3. Even the Koran states this and this is

why the Muslims have a huge cemetery in front of the Easter Gate to keep Jesus out, because Jews cannot touch a dead body.

8. Why did Pilate wash his hands after releasing Jesus? Matt. 27:24 It was custom by the head of each household to wash his hands after

finding a sheep without blemish.

9. What time of the day did Jesus die? Mark 15:33,34… 3 p.m, our time.

The priests were offering daily sacrifices for sins from noon to 3 p.m. When Jesus said, “It is finished” John 19:30, that was the fulfillment of the

Biblical prophecy in Isaiah 53.

Finished = complete; discharge; to pay for (Greek)

The veil of the temple, which separated the Holy place form the Holies of Holies was torn from top to bottom so that all believers now have direct

access to God anytime, unlike the High Priest, once a year; Matt. 27:45-53 The veil was 4 inches thick; 30 feet wide and 60 feet long

10. Ravi Zacharias

 Moses 630 laws

 David reduced to 15

 Isaiah reduced to 8

 Micah reduced to 3…

Micah 6:8 “do justly, love mercy and walk humbly with God." A person’s character and behavior matter more to God than

gifts. Ps. 141

Jesus Christ reduced the law to 2; Mark 12:30,31;

1. Love – totally given over heart – very being

2. Soul – emotions

3. Mind – intellect

Matt.22:34-40… love others as you love yourself… all the prophets and law hang (as a door on a hinge) on these things.

“Redemption precedes justification and righteousness”

All of these principles is the reason that Paul is so detailed in giving us instruction for Communion. I Cor. 11:17-34

v. 17-22 conduct at the Communion Table

v. 23-26 institution of The Lord’s Supper

v. 27-34 examine yourself

“examine” = to test; to determine like testing metal”; means approval more than condemnation

v. 30 is one of the strongest verses on this subject.

If we do not TAKE TIME to examine ourselves, the consequences are very severe. WEAK = to be feeble in any sense; the word’ weak’ is used as impotent; diseased and sick in James 5:14. SICK IS used in Matt. 14:14 and other verses, as in physical illness.

SLEEP = to put to sleep; to slumber; dead – used in I Cor. 15:51; I Thess.4:14

YOU CAN TRUST HIM

“He’s the One who made us. It is He who made us and not we ourselves. The heavens declare the glory of God, and the firmament

shows His handiwork. No means of measure can define His limitless love and no farseeing telescope can bring into the visibility the coastline

of His shoreless supply. I’m telling you today…. You can trust Him.

No barrier can hinder Him from pouring out His blessing. He’s enduringly strong and he’s entirely sincere. He’s eternally steadfast and

He is immortally graceful. He’s empirically, powerfully and impartially merciful. He’s the greatest phenomenon that has ever crossed the

horizon of his world. He’s God’s Son. He’s the sinner’s Savior. He’s the centerpiece of civilization. I’m trying to tell you, Church …. You can

trust Him.

He does not have to call for help and you can’t confuse Him. He doesn’t need you and He doesn’t need me. He stands alone in the solitude of

Himself. He’s august and He’s unique. He’s unparalleled. He’s unprecedented. He’s supreme. He’s preeminent. He’s the loftiest idea

in literature. He’s the highest personality in philosophy. He’s the supreme problem of higher criticism. He’s the fundamental doctrine of

truthology. He’s the cardinal necessity of the spiritual religion. He’s the miracle of the age. He’s the superlative of everything good that you can

call Him… I’m trying to tell you that… you can trust Him.

He can satisfy all your needs and he can do it simultaneously. He supplies strength for the weak, and He’s available for the tempted and

the tried. He sympathizes and He sess. He guards and He guides. He heals the sick. He cleansed the leper. He forgives the sinners. He

discharges debtors. He delivers the captives. He defends the people. He blesses the young. He regard the aged. He rewards the diligent. He

beautifies the meek. I’m trying to tell you, Church… you can trust Him.

He’s the key to knowledge. He’s the wellspring of wisdom. He’s the doorway of deliverance. He’s the path of peace. He’s the roadway of

righteousness. The highway of holiness. He’s the gateway to glory….You can trust Him.

He’s the master of the mighty. He’s the capture of conquerors. He’s the head of heroes. He’s the leader of legislators. He’s the overseer of the

overcomers. He’s the Governor of the governors. He’s the Prince of princes. He’s the King of kings. He’s the Lord of lords…. You can trust

Him.

His office is manifold. His promise is sure. His life is matchless. His goodness is limitless. His mercy is everlasting. His love never changes.

His word is enough. His grace is sufficient. His reign is righteous. His yoke is easy. His burden is light. I wish I could describe Him to you.

He’s indescribable because He’s incomprehensible. He’s irresistible because he’s invincible. You can’t get him off your hand. You can’t get

Him off your mind. You can’t’ outlive Him, and you can’t live without Him. Pilate couldn’t stand it when he found out that he couldn’t stop

Him. Pilate couldn’t find any fault in Him and the witnesses couldn’t get their testimonies to agree and Herod couldn’t kill Him. There was

nobody before Him. They’ll be nobody after Him. He has no predecessor. He’ll have no successor. You can’t impeach Him and He’s

not going to resign…. You can trust Him.

He’s the Alpha and the Omega. The beginning and the end. The first and the last. He’s all things. He’s the giver of life. He’s the joy out of

every sorrow. He’s the light of every darkness. He’s the peace that passes all understanding. He’s the giver of every good and perfect gift…

you can trust Him.

There’s no God before Him. They’ll be no one after Him. He is the first. He is the last. He is preeminent. There is no other God” … You can trust

Him, Church. YOU CAN TRUST HIM!”

~~ S.M. Lockridge

For resources:

Go to www.solomonsporchteaching.com

1. To order my three books, including a FREE Prayer Guide ,

“Supernatural Breakthrough” and read My Story

2. Go to Podcast for teaching

3. Click on “ TEACHING ” to scroll down through the teaching topics, including:

 Why Biblical Prophecy is So Important today (as it is 1/3 of the Bible)

 Why Did God Choose Israel to be HIS Chosen People?

 Biblical Worldview on End Times

 How to Overcome Worry and Fear and Attain God’s Wisdom

Today

 The New World Order

 And many many more…

Shalom,

Barry Borthistle

Jesus Paid It All

dougmorneau@marzany.com (Doug Morneau) — Mon, 31 Jul 2023 02:41:46 GMT

The Blood of Jesus Christ is the Most Powerful Force in the Universe

David Wilkerson, Andrew Murray and Charles Spurgeon have all said "The precious Blood of Jesus Christ is the most Powerful Force in the Universe."

JESUS PAID IT ALL

Life is in the blood ~~ Lev. 17:14

This teaching has changed my life. It is not a formula because Almighty God is Sovereign. This is a summary of a 200 page teaching manual.

LIFE IS IN THE BLOOD

Lev. 17:14

When blood is removed, it terminates life. The blood was God’s ordained means of effecting and bringing atonement, both the in Old Testament with animals. Used to cleanse – to forgive – to ransom. In the New Testament, Jesus Christ - one time paid it all; Romans 5:11

Greek = reconciliation = returning to divine favor. Wow.

A quote from David Wilkerson and Charles Spurgeon… “The blood of Jesus Christ is the most powerful force in the universe."

When blood is removed, it terminates life. The blood was God’s ordained means of affecting and bringing atonement. In the Old

Testament, God used the blood of animals. The word ‘atonement’ in the Old Testament is used 69 times. In Hebrew, it means ‘to cleanse,

to forgive, to ransom’. In the New Testament, the word ‘atonement’ which in Greek means, ‘returning to the divine favor.'

Psalm 119:164, David tells us to “praise the Lord” seven times a day! The atonement of Jesus Christ is worth praising the Lord seven times a

day.

The story behind this summary of the Power of the Precious Blood of Jesus Christ.

Like most Christians, I have observed Communion all my life. Several years ago after reading I Cor. 11:17-34, I realized that Communion had

become a ritual to me. I began to study the ‘blood’ in the Word of God and I was astonished.

I felt led by the Holy Spirit to study the first Passover in Exodus 12 where God told Moses to strike blood around the door and when they

obeyed, they were delivered from Egypt. The word ‘strike’ means to apply, not plead. You do not plead with the Lord for anything that He

has already given to you.

Then I recalled that the church where I grew up supported Israel. Every Sunday, about 200 of the congregation would gather for an hour of

Communion before the worship service. I remember seeing many of them on their knees, weeping as they celebrated Communion. When

they were finished, they would sing a hymn, just like Jesus did after His last Passover with the disciples. (Matt. 26:26-30)

THE MYSTERIES OF THE NEW TESTAMENT

The Mystery or Secret of the Kingdom of Heaven. This is the first mystery and there are 14 mysteries in the New Testament. That is a mystery. The Greek definition “musterion” = imposed silence, secret. Used only in the New Testament.

The mysteries of God can only be understood by believers through the power of the Holy Spirit; Col. 1:24-29

The first time Jesus mentioned the word ‘church’ was in Matthew 16:18,19, “And I say also unto thee, that thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church. And the gates of hell shall not prevail against it. And I will give unto thee the keys of the kingdom of heaven and whatsoever thou shalt bind on earth shall be bound in heaven; and whatsoever thou shalt loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven.”

Jesus said 4 things:

 It is My church

 I will build it

 The gates of hell will not prevail

 I will give you the keys to the Kingdom of Heaven.

What is the kingdom of Heaven? God’s government on earth.

1. It’s a mystery; Matt. 13:11

2. It was the first sermon that John the Baptist and Jesus Christ preached – “repent, for the Kingdom of Heaven is at hand”. Matt. 3:2; 4:17

What the Kingdom of Heaven is NOT:

The Kingdom is not made up of a particular race of family or nationality. Whosoever shall do the will of our Father in heaven, the same is our brother, and sister, and mother. Matt. 12:50

The Kingdom is neither Jew not Greek, bond not free, male nor female, for ye are all on in Christ Jesus. Galatians 3:28

The Kingdom of Heaven is not a building. John 4:21-24

The Kingdom of Heaven is not a corporation of the state. John 15:4

Jesus said on a couple of occasions that He would give us the Keys (competent authority). Matt. 16:19; Rev. 3:7

The ancient Scriptures predicted the Kingdom of Heaven. The New Testament proclaims that it has arrived!

Why would Jesus give us the keys of authority?

1. God created us as His temple, with the Holy Spirit within – what an awesome thought! I Cor. 3:16,17

2. God then gave us the keys to spiritual authority – Matt. 16:19

3. When Jesus went to Heaven, He left the Holy Spirit for us, who will do 33 things – Acts 1:7,8

“Christians today need to be informed about the various mysteries because ALL the deeper matters of Scripture are predicted upon understanding them.”

Why is this so important?

I have written 3 published books on these subjects:

YOUR BODY IS GOD’S TEMPLE

SPIRITUAL AUTHORITY

33 THINGS THAT THE HOLY SPIRIT WILL DO FOR YOU.

These books are available to order at www.solomonsporchteaching.com

The word ‘blood’ is mentioned 447 in the Bible.

God used blood to free Israel and introduce the Passover. Exodus chapter 12: v. 7 – Israelites were instructed to strike the blood on the side and top of the doorposts. 'Strike’ in Hebrew means ‘to apply’. This is the only place in all of Scripture where the word ‘strike’ is used.

In the Scripture, the Blood is spoken of in two ways: blood shed and blood sprinkled! By David Wilkerson (April 1996)

Without a doubt, the blood of Jesus Christ is the most precious gift our heavenly Father has given to His church. Yet so few Christians understand its value and virtue. Christians often sing about the power of the blood. Indeed, the anthem of the Pentecostal church is, “There is power, power, wonder-working power in the precious blood of the Lamb”.

But most believers seldom enter into the power of that blood. We simply do not comprehend the great significance of the blood. For example: We constantly “plead the blood” as some kind of mystical formula of protection. But few Christians can explain its great glory and benefits.

If I were to ask you what the power of the blood means, you might answers, “it means that my sins are remitted – that I’m free from the bondage of iniquity – that all my sins are covered.” Yet, beyond forgiveness, what does the blood of Jesus Christ mean to you? Can you explain to me, to your family, to a coworker the value and virtue of the blood of Jesus?

I want to give you a fuller understanding of the preciousness of Jesus’ blood – and how it can work wonderful changes in your life!

When those who have not been sprinkled are in trouble, they call their best friend or a counselor, or they wallow in fear and condemnation. But those sprinkled with blood immediately stand on Jesus’ blood! We often hear the phrase ‘pleading the blood’ used in Christian circles. But this is not a Scriptural term. The word ‘plead’ here means ‘argument; and it suggests begging, beseeching. And that is a defensive mode.

I believe our attitude must be stronger than that. We are warriors – blood- bought, blood-saved, more than conquerors through Jesus Christ! WE are not in a courtroom with the devil, pleading a case. No – we are victors! Jesus has won the victory for us; His blood has prevailed. And I believe our battle cry should be, “I proclaim the victory of the blood of Jesus! I am blood-washed, blood-bought,

blood-justified, blood-safe, and blood ransomed. And I proclaim the victory of the blood of Jesus!”

Where Did the blood of Jesus Christ Go When He Died? Where is the Blood of Jesus today?

Charles Spurgeon, prince of preachers, tells us: “when we climb into heaven itself…. We shall not have gone beyond the

influence of the Blood of sprinkling: nay, we shall see it {the Blood} where more truly present than in any other place. “That!” you say, “the blood of Jesus in Heaven?” Yes! Let those who take lightly of the precious blood correct their view ere they be guilty of blasphemy” (CH Spurgeon, “The Blood of Sprinkling”, Metropolitan Tabernacle Pulpit).

Again, Spurgeon said, “the Lord has gone there [to Heaven] and has sprinkled His blood on the mercy seat”. When did Jesus sprinkle His blood on the Heavenly Mercy Seat? According to Dr. DeHaan, Medical Doctor, Jesus Christ ascended to His Heavenly Father before anyone

could touch Him (John 20:11-18) key verse is 17. The Holy Spirit tells us that the New Covenant could not take place until the Blood of Jesus Christ entered the heavenly Holy Place and became our High Priest, could our sins be forgiven; Heb. 9:6-11; 23-28; 10:19-25.

Key point: as believers, we now have access to our High Priest, Jesus Christ 24/7.

THE BLOOD APPLIED IN HEAVEN

By Ron Stewart

Jesus Christ is now our High Priest. Hebrews 4:14-16

Just as the Jewish high priest was required to enter into the holy of holies once a year, likewise Christ had to enter into the Holy of Holies to appear before God. The Old Testament tabernacle was divided into three parts: the outer court, the inner court and then the holy of holies. Only certain priests who followed certain cleansing rituals were allowed into the inner court. Absolutely no one could enter into the holy of holies except a certain high priest once a year.

Disobeying certain rules meant death. For example, if the high priest entered into the holy of holies without the lamb’s

blood, God would have killed him. The blood atonement was sacred to God. Christ’s blood is a serious matter to God. We must not make alight of something that God holds dear. Forasmuch as you know that you were not redeemed with corruptible things, as

silver and gold, from your vain conversation received by tradition from your father; but with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot”. I Peter 1:18,19). Jesus is precious! Jesus’ blood is precious!

Carefully note that the word “atonement” is an Old Testament word which means “to cover”. Jesus DIDN’T merely cover our sins, He took them away forever with His blood. Amen! This is why, when speaking of Christ’s work of redemption, I refer to His “blood sacrifice” instead of using the word ”atonement." What a wonderful and loving God, that He would provide salvation to us through His own suffering and sacrifice. Surely there is not greater love than this. Do you fail to see God’s love toward mankind? If so, it is only because of your sinful

unbelief. Believe my friend and let God have His way with your heart.

COMMUNION

Communion, like so many essential points of Biblical doctrine, has fallen into the mire of tradition. The Lord’s Table is the only Biblical celebration in the New Testament.

Consider our preparation for Christmas and Easter…. Dozens, if not hundreds of hours. For Communion, we spend 10-15 minutes once a month in most church, with little knowledge of what we are doing. Read: I Cor. 11:17-34

There is healing (divine intervention) in the Passover and Communion:

“Surely he hath borne our griefs and carried our sorrows; yet we did esteem him

stricken, smitten of God and afflicted. But he was wounded for our

transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities; the chastisement of our peace

was upon him; and with his stirpes we are healed. ” Isaiah 53:4,5

“ But let a man examine himself, and so let him eat of that bread and drink of that

cup. For he that eateth and drinketh unworthily, eateht and drinketh darnation

to himself, not discerning the Lord’s body. For this cause many are weak and

sickly among you, and many sleep. For if we would judge ourselves, we should

not be judged.” I Cor. 11:28-31

NOW. BEGIN WITH COMMUNION.

EXALTING, PRAISING AND WORSHIPPING THE LORD JESUS CHRIST.

Repent for your own sins and get right with GOD first. If you carry any offence against anyone – release and forgive them now.

Additional Spiritual Tip:

Fast and pray once a week.

Take communion once a week

Realign under the Headship of Jesus by getting right with God before Communion.

Celebrate Communion, thanking God for the 23 mind blowing facts about Jesus

death and resurrection:

 Before the Cross

 On the Cross

 After the Cross

“The Blood of Jesus Christ is regarded by God as the most important agent given to us” I Peter 1:19 ~~ Charles Spurgeon

Taking Communion Daily or as Often as You Decide

This prayer can be applied to any situation in your life:

Father, I thank you for the victory! I thank you that my child is Your child! I thank You that his/her spiritual eyes are being opened to Your goodness! I now stand in FAITH and I BELIEVE and TRUST YOU for my child’s life! Apply the blood of

Jesus Christ to any situation in your life.

“Father, I come before you in the name of Jesus Christ, who shed His Precious Blood that I might have the victory in everything that Satan throws at me! I being my [child] before you now and claim him/her for the Kingdom of God! I refuse to

let Satan take them away from me.

By an act of my faith, I draw a Blood line and apply the Precious Blood around my child’s spirit, soul and physical body! I draw the Blood line around his/her education, performance, friendships and everything that concerns him/her! I know Father, that YOU will perfect his/her life. Satan, I remind you of the Blood of Jesus that covers my house, business, marriage, family! You cannot cross this blood line in the name and the authority of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, who defeated you by His death and resurrection! I bind you from operating against my child any further in the Name of Jesus!"

Shalom,

Barry Borthistle, A Spiritual Entrepreneur with a Biblical worldview

bborthistle@shaw.ca

www.solomonsporchteaching.com

Behaviour Follows Belief

Wed, 19 Jul 2023 01:10:01 GMT

Behaviour Follows Belief

The podcast is back for 2023. Barry and Ruth Borthistle bring you wisdom and God-breathed inspiration they have been finding in Scripture and in their own lives.

The State of the Evangelical Church Around the World

Fri, 18 Nov 2022 19:59:10 GMT

"The State of the Evangelical Church Around the World"

Brian Stiller

Listen on Apple Podcasts - Click Here

Listen on Castbox - Click Here

Watch on YouTube (Starts at 31:22) - Click Here

Brian C. Stiller is the Global Ambassador of the World Evangelical Alliance, the global association which represents some 600 million Evangelical Protestants. He is the author of fourteen books.

During his talk, given at South Abbotsford Church Brian presents the state of the evangelical church around the world.

Psalm 72:8 "He shall have dominion also from sea to sea, and from the river unto the ends of the earth."

Support Solomon's Porch Teaching: Buy your copy of Your Body is God's Temple

In Canada you can order the paperback on Trivita.ca/godstemple or call 1-800-344-8797

In the US you can order the paperback on Trivita.com/godstemple , or Amazon or call 1-800-991-7116 (US only)

To order a pdf version (E-book) of the book in both Canada and the US - CLICK HERE

How God Can Heal Our Land

Tue, 11 Oct 2022 23:52:21 GMT

"Part 2: How God Can Heal Our Land"

With Barry and Ruth Borthistle

Listen on Apple Podcasts - Click Here

Listen on Castbox - Click Here

This episode includes:

A moving video by Chris Maynard (see below)

Barry and Ruth's thoughts on how God can heal our land from II Chronicles, Psalm 103 and Psalm 33

Download Barry and Ruth's FREE Prayer Guide called "Expect Supernatural Breakthroughs Today." CLICK HERE

Psalm 72:8 "He shall have dominion also from sea to sea, and from the river unto the ends of the earth."

Support Solomon's Porch Teaching: Buy your copy of Your Body is God's Temple

In Canada you can order the paperback on Trivita.ca/godstemple or call 1-800-344-8797

In the US you can order the paperback on Trivita.com/godstemple , or Amazon or call 1-800-991-7116 (US only)

To order a pdf version (E-book) of the book in both Canada and the US - CLICK HERE

There is Hope for Our Nations

Mon, 29 Aug 2022 23:22:59 GMT

"There is Hope for Our Nations"

With Barry and Ruth Borthistle

Listen on Apple Podcasts - Click Here

Listen on Castbox - Click Here

This episode includes:

The American and Canadian anthems

A moving video by Chris Maynard (see below)

A quote from the Wall Street Journal about getting through pandemics

The story of Hezekiah and Sycamore trees from chapter 13 of Barry’s book your body is God‘s temple.

Psalm 72:8 and the 25 Bible verses that are spread throughout Parliament Hill in Ottawa Canada

A discussion about giving God a chance to heal our nations

Psalm 72:8 He shall have dominion also from sea to sea, and from the river unto the ends of the earth.

Support Solomon's Porch Teaching: Buy your copy of Your Body is God's Temple

In Canada you can order the paperback on Trivita.ca/godstemple or call 1-800-344-8797

In the US you can order the paperback on Trivita.com/godstemple , or Amazon or call 1-800-991-7116 (US only)

To order a pdf version (E-book) of the book in both Canada and the US - CLICK HERE

The Vital Importance of Faith

Tue, 15 Mar 2022 01:56:04 GMT

"The Vital Importance of Faith"

with Special Guest Michael Ellison

and Hosts Barry and Ruth Borthistle

Listen on Apple Podcasts - Click Here

Listen on Castbox - Click Here

THE BODY IS THE TEMPLE OF GOD – AMAZING!

SOLOMONSPORCHTEACHING.COM

YOUR BODY IS GOD’S TEMPLE

Life can be supernatural

_ _ _ _ _

The Book – by Barry Borthistle

Our physical selves, our emotional core, our soul, and our spiritual center are in constant need of loving care. Your Body is God’s Temple serves to remind us that feeding ourselves the nourishment it needs while rejuvenating one’s faith journey is as energizing now as it has always been.

Order the Book:

In Canada you can order the paperback on Trivita.ca/godstemple or call 1-800-344-8797

In the US you can order the paperback on Trivita.com/godstemple , or Amazon or call 1-800-991-7116 (US only)

To order a pdf version (E-book) of the book in both Canada and the US - CLICK HERE

_ _ _ _ _

Listen to the current Podcast series:

Podcast One – Eight principles of preparation for prayer so that God will hear your prayer.

Podcast Two – The principles of waiting for God. Lesson from eagles, the representation of freedom and peace.

Podcast Three – the application of prayer. The ‘how to’ by King Solomon, the wisest, richest man who has ever lived.

Podcast Four ( To listen) see above) – The vital importance of faith, with special guest, Michael Ellison.

In this episode special guest, Michael Ellison discusses the importance of faith with Barry and Ruth Borthistle.

Michael asks four questions...

1 Who has faith?
2 What is faith?
3 How do you build faith?
4 How do you apply faith?

Podcast Five – the Supernatural Spiritual Authority God gives His Temple to expect the Supernatural. This is life changing.

Quotes

“If we trust in God and keep His Word, and live our lives for His pleasure, He will give us the power we need - power to fight the good fight and to finish the race and keep the faith.” ~ President Ronald Reagan

“To recognize and receive the wondrous truth of being God’s Temple is the beginning of walking and living a supernatural life.” ~ Michael Ellison

“There are only two ways to live your life. One is as though nothing is a miracle. The other is as if everything is a miracle”. ~ Albert Einstein

Solomon's Temple Prayer

Thu, 24 Feb 2022 18:56:27 GMT

"Solomon's Temple Prayer"

with Barry and Ruth Borthistle

In this episode, Barry and Ruth discuss 12 things Solomon prayed for in the Temple in 1 Kings 3:3-13

Listen on Apple Podcasts - Click Here

Listen on Castbox - Click Here

THE BODY IS THE TEMPLE OF GOD – AMAZING!
“To recognize and receive the wondrous truth of being God’s Temple is the beginning of walking and living a supernatural life” ~ Michael Ellison

Five principles to see the Supernatural occur in your life: (as found in chapter 5 of “Your Body is God’s Temple”)

Podcast One – Eight principles of preparation for prayer so that God will hear your prayer
Podcast Two – the principles of waiting for God. Lesson from eagles, the representation of freedom and peace
Podcast Three (listen above) – The application of prayer. The ‘how to’ by King Solomon, the wisest, richest man who has ever lived.
His net worth is estimated to be $2.2 trillion if he was alive today.
Podcast Four – The vital importance of faith, with special guest Michael Ellison.
Podcast Five - The Supernatural Spiritual Authority God gives His Temple to expect the Supernatural. This is life-changing.

_ _ _ _ _

THE SEARCH FOR THE REALITY OF A PERSONAL SENSE OF DESTINY.

The following quotes come from a study by Dr. Peter J. Daniels

Quotes:

“There are only two ways to live your life. One is as though nothing is a miracle. The other is as if

everything is a miracle”. ~~ Albert Einstein

“You are never too old to dream a new dream” ~~ C.S. Lewis

“If we trust in God and keep His Word, and live our lives for His pleasure, He will give us the power we

need - power to fight the good fight and to finish the race and keep the faith.” ~~ President Ronald Reagan

_ _ _ _ _

Order the book "Your Body is God's Temple":
solomonsporchteaching.com
In Canada: Trivita.ca or 1-800-344-8797
In the US: Trivita.com or 1-800-991-7116
Amazon.com (US only)
Cost: $14.95
_ _ _ _ _

I think we all agree we need something from God which is supernatural in the mess the world is in.

The Book – by Barry Borthistle
Our physical selves, our emotional core, our soul, and our spiritual center are in constant need of loving care. Your Body is God’s Temple serves to remind us that feeding ourselves the nourishment it needs while rejuvenating one’s faith journey is as energizing now as it has always been.

They Will Mount Up With Wings As Eagles

rodjanz07@gmail.com (Rod Janz) — Wed, 09 Feb 2022 21:57:43 GMT

"They Will Mount Up With Wings Like Eagles"

with Barry and Ruth Borthistle

In this episode, Barry and Ruth discuss the principles of waiting for

God and lessons from eagles, the representation of freedom and peace.

THE BODY IS THE TEMPLE OF GOD – AMAZING!
“To recognize and receive the wondrous truth of being God’s Temple is the beginning of walking and living a supernatural life” ~ Michael Ellison

Five principles to see the Supernatural occur in your life: (as found in chapter 5 of “Your Body is God’s Temple”)

Podcast One – Eight principles of preparation for prayer so that God will hear your prayer
Podcast Two (listen above) – the principles of waiting for God. Lesson from eagles, the representation of freedom and peace
Podcast Three – the vital importance of faith, with a special guest.
Podcast Four – the application of prayer. The ‘how to’ by King Solomon, the wisest, richest man who has ever lived.
His net worth is estimated to be $2.2 trillion if he was alive today.
Podcast Five - The Supernatural Spiritual Authority God gives His Temple to expect the Supernatural. This is life-changing.

_ _ _ _ _

Order the Book:
solomonsporchteaching.com
In Canada: Trivita.ca or 1-800-344-8797
In the US: Trivita.com or 1-800-991-7116
Amazon.com (US only)
Cost: $14.95
_ _ _ _ _

I think we all agree we need something from God which is supernatural in the mess the world is in.

How to Prepare for Prayer - Eps. 20

Wed, 19 Jan 2022 21:09:37 GMT

How to Prepare for Prayer

In this episode, Barry and Ruth discuss eight important biblically-based prayer principles that can help prepare you for prayer from page 30 of Barry's book "Your Body is God's Temple."

_ _ _ _ _

Almighty God has given us the keys (competent authority) to Spiritual authority when based on His Word. Why has He done this? Because we are His temple.

My dream is to develop a global movement that encourages people to live as if their body is the "Temple of God."

“To recognize and receive the wondrous truth of being God’s Temple is the beginning of walking and living a supernatural life.” ~~ Michael Ellison

HOPE is not an illusion. It is the assurance that good things are going to happen based upon the promises in God’s Word. If your marriage is failing, if your business or finances are sinking, if your children are in trouble, if your health is at risk, there is hope in the LIVING GOD.

It is time for spiritual fitness, prayer, and the power of hope!

_ _ _ _ _

Order Your Body is God’s Temple today!

To order in Canada: Trivita.ca/godstemple

To order in the US: Trivita.com/godstemple

On Amazon (US only): HERE

E-book available at Solomon's Porch Teaching website: HERE

_ _ _ _ _

Spiritual Authority

One who learns Spiritual Authority in his or her life must recognize the essential source of all authority is God. While many rely on their position, granted to them by another human being, Spiritual Authority comes only from God. When you walk and live in this incredible truth that you are God’s Temple, the spiritual authority that God has promised, becomes life-changing.

God has given us the spiritual authority, because we are His Temple, to:

1. Handle trials

2. Heal our land

AND IN EVERY OTHER AREA OF LIFE

3. The secret of spiritual authority

People who understand Biblical truth and have the courage to live it out, can indeed redeem culture, or even create one. This is the challenge facing all of us in the new millennium”. ~~ Charles W. Colson, “How Now Shall We Live?” Why? Because God gives authority.

Please feel free to invite friends to participate, and we wish you a happy and blessed New Year.

Barry and Ruth Borthistle

Email: bborthistle@shaw.ca and rborthistle@outlook.com

_ _ _ _ _

Your Body Is the Temple Eps. 20 (ROUGH TRANSCRIPT)

[00:00:00] Barry: Well, hello everybody. This is Barry and Ruth Borthistle. So we're excited to be with you today. I just love that song about praising God's temple because that's what really, this is all about.

This is the beginning of a new five-week podcast series. And it's really about the principles of spiritual authority.

It's in chapter five in my book on page 30 and you will hear information later in this podcast on how you can get the book or the notes. And it's all from my book “Your Body is God's Temple.” Now, when you think about that, it's such a credible concept. So, there are over 8 billion people in the world. That means there potentially are 8 billion temples walking and running around, which is an enormous concept.

We all know that COVID-19 has changed the world. These five upcoming podcasts, including today will be about how God is willing to heal our land. We all know that is so important today. It is time for a spiritual fitness. Prayer and the power of hope. As I say, in my book, hope is not an illusion. It is the assurance that good things are going to happen based upon the promises in God's word.

So, if your marriage is failing, if you're a business or a finances are sinking, if your children are in trouble, if your health is at risk or any other issue, there is hope in the living God. So today we're going to talk about the. principle of agreeing with God to heal our land. And it's called “take the time to prepare for prayer.”

Now, prayer is something they say about 60% of people in North America pray every day, which is good. But prayer is like going on a diet. If you're going to go on a diet, you just can't say, well, I'm going to go on a diet and expect the pounds to come up. It's not going to happen. Or with exercise, I'm going to exercise, but if you don't follow the principles of exercise, it's not going to happen. And that's really what the word of God says about the principles of prayer. And that's what Ruth and I want to talk to you today about, so on page 30 in my book, “Your Body is God's Temple” there are eight important prayer principles. So that, again, is like, here's the diet now, and here's what you’ve got to do.

So here are eight important prayer principles that Ruth and I would like to bring to your attention to this. And this is on page 30 in the book. Number one, repent of all known sin. 1 John 1:5-10. Ruth.

[00:03:25] Ruth: And this is the message which we have heard of him and declare unto you that God is light and in him is no darkness.

If we say that we have fellowship with him and walk in darkness, we lie and do not the truth. But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ. His Son cleanses us from all sin. If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves. And the truth is not in us.

If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us, our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. If we say that we have not sinned, we make him a liar and his word is not in us.

[00:04:08] Barry: Now, there are five “ifs” in that passage. And in fact, there are over 1500 ifs in the Bible, which means that it is our choice.

God's not going to make us do that.

The second one is a Psalm 66: 18 -20. God cannot hear us if we do not repent of sin.

Number three is the passage found in Matthew where we are told that we must forgive others. Otherwise, God cannot forgive us. That's a huge, huge undertaking because we all have people in our lives who have done something against us, me included, but what Jesus said is we have no choice, but to forgive them, that's part of repenting.

Number four is, do not worry. Worry is a sin. And in Matthew chapter six, we are told not to worry. And I'm going to ask Ruth to comment on her, dealing with that sin

[00:05:15] Ruth: growing up, people would say, don't be a worry about. And even today people say to us, well, don't worry, don't worry. And it's easy for them to say.

But you know, I believe that worry is habit for me. I think it can become a pattern in life. And there is there's so much to worry about in our world today in the natural. So, for me I think it's actually a discipline to allow worry, not to get a grip on. And to actually just really grab a hold of that worry is not attractive and it brings on health issues or relationship problems.

So, if we stay with without worry I think it's a declaration in the Bible, it talks about be anxious for nothing. And sometimes I say for nothing, but yes, for nothing. And then I. And that verse goes on to say, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving. Oh thanksgiving. So, I think one of the antidotes to worry for me is, is to be in a place of praise.

There's a lot of hymns that talk about just giving it to the Lord. I think that for me even though for that old him, “He walks with me and He talks with me and He tells me I am his own.” And so, if I'm walking with the Lord, He, if I am truly a temple of the living God, then worry has no place in my life.

[00:06:41] Barry: Thank you. First of all, number five. Like Solomon were told to ask God for wisdom while we all need wisdom today. And I'm going to ask Ruth to read James 1: 5-6

[00:07:00] Ruth: If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God that give it to all men liberally and upbraideth not, and it shall be given him, but let him ask in faith, nothing.

Wait. For he, that waiver is like a wave of the sea driven with the wind and tossed.

[00:07:19] Barry: You know, those two verses are incredible. But to understand those verses in chapter three in the book, it’s really, really incredible information, or it talks about preparation or the principles of what you have to do before you ask for wisdom.

It's worth reading and following that because that is a strong principle of prayer. Number six, “you have not because you ask not” Ruth is going to read John 15 verse seven.

[00:07:52] Ruth: If you abide in me and my words abide in you, you shall ask what you will, and it shall be done in.

[00:08:01] Barry: Now there again, that's an incredible promise when you read that whole chapter, it's about the vine and Jesus being the vine, and we know how that works with orchards.

The word abide get this now is mentioned seven times in that story, the number seven in the Bible is the number of completion or the number of perfection principle.

Number seven is always address your prayer to the “Father.” Ask every day you the name of Jesus. Remember the Holy Spirit intercedes for us, the meaning of intercession is to meet with, to make a petition.

That's an incredible promise. And Ruth is going to comment on that.

[00:08:48] Ruth: Well, the best example of, for that is how Jesus taught his disciples to pray our Father, which art in heaven. And I'm starting a prayer every time with our Father is very calming. Hallowed be your name? But I also know in my heart that God almighty is fine with my oh Lord have mercy.

Many times and the songs for God to have mercy. And I often I think I often have that prayer right out of my lips. Furthermore, I think prayer is conversation with my dear heavenly father, where, where I also listen you know, in Peter it says casting all your care about Him for, He cares for you.

This is, you know, this is not about placing it neatly at the feet of Jesus. It says casting. And so, I come as I am, and I'm always trying to remind myself that the prayer also includes. Adoration and praise. It's just not me. Always. Oh, God, help, help remembering that I am the temple of the Holy Spirit and the Lord also dwells in the praises of his people.

[00:10:06] Barry: That's terrific. We've got one more at number eight and when asked Ruth three first Peter chapter three, verse seven. So. This one is for men only ladies, make sure your man,

[00:10:19] Ruth: likewise, you husbands dwell with them. According to knowledge, giving honor unto the wife as unto the weaker vessel and as being heirs together, the grace of life that your prayers be not hindered

[00:10:34] Barry: Now in other words, men, if we don't treat our wives and care for them, Biblically then there's no sense in praying because the word means the word hindered means cut off.

Also, another tremendous biblical principle that is connected to this prayer from the old Testament is remember when God created Adam, he was alone. And he said it was not good for man to be alone. So, he created Eve. I can just imagine what Adam said to Eve when he first saw her, like, where have you been all my life, but the word helpmate is the word.

Divine aid. So, for men to have their prayers answered first, Peter chapter three, verse seven is incredible principles. So, there are eight principles that I use in my daily prayers. I have found myself personally that since discovering these truths, my prayer life has increased dramatically. And I wanted to give you a, just a tip on.

And this is from a way back. The word acts, the fifth book of the new Testament, A C T S here is a good way to remember how to. Number one, acknowledge a acknowledge God, who he is, his holiness, his divinity, et cetera. Number C is confession. That's repentance letter T is Thanksgiving, Thanksgiving for everything that he's done for us. And S is for supplication or requests. Good way to remember.

Now next week, we're going to go on to the second principle and seeking God to heal our land. And it's called “Learning to Wait on the Lord.” Now this is tough because it's about patience. But in the book of Psalms, it says we will not survive spiritually.

Get this. Now we will not survive spiritually if we do not learn to wait. So, I'm 130 verses five to six, wait with basis. Also in Psalm one 30, it says, wait in prayer. So, it's like, it's like the diet again, or the exercise just because you go on a diet. You don't lose 10 pounds. I stay, or it's you exercise?

You're not in shape in two days. It takes time, but the principles must be followed. That'll be the next podcast. So, I'm going to ask Ruth to close in prayer, and then we're going to have a beautiful song that really ties into this whole podcast series by the Maranatha singers.

[00:13:44] Ruth: He has. And I just want to remind ourselves Barry and our friends that it's the Holy Spirit, that intercedes for us to Jesus Christ. And there's a great consolation. And knowing that even today, the Holy Spirit is making intercession for us with groanings, which cannot be. And he's doing the intercession. This takes some of the, this takes some of the angst out of it for us.

Ruth’s prayer: So, Lord, we thank you again for your presence, your very presence that dwells within us today. And we ask that we continue to be vessels. Vessels of honor, somehow use us to your glory and we pray that you would be meeting the needs of our friends who listen today and bring a blessing over them.

Your banner of love and hope and protection and provision in your name. I pray. Amen.

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Your Body is God's Temple - Order the paperback on Trivita (Canada and the U.S.)

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Your Body is God's Temple - Session 8

Thu, 11 Nov 2021 17:26:26 GMT

Your Body is God's Temple - Week 8

Week 8 - The Vital Importance of Communion in Healing Our Land (Continued)

Your 10-week Spiritual Bootcamp, Your Body is God's Temple. In this video series Barry Borthistle will speak on the amazing truth - YOUR body is God's temple and how to live it out. There is also a rousing hymn sing each week.

This is the final session in this series. We will be back next year. To stay up to date and be the first to know what Barry is planning next, please sign up for our newsletter.

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Your Body is God's Temple - Session 7

Thu, 04 Nov 2021 17:30:01 GMT

Your Body is God's Temple - Week 7

Week 7 - The Vital Importance of Communion in Healing Our Land (Continued)

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Your Body is God's Temple - Session 6

Thu, 28 Oct 2021 20:29:47 GMT

Your Body is God's Temple - Week 6

Week 6 - The Vital Importance of Communion in Healing Our Land

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The Vital Importance of Servant Empowered Leadership by Dr Don Page

Thu, 21 Oct 2021 21:57:15 GMT

The Vital Importance of Servant Empowered Leadership by Dr Don Page

Don was a speechwriter for three Canadian Prime ministers. His book "Servant Empowered Leadership is a must read and can be ordered through his web page https://servantempoweredleadership.com/

Your Body is God's Temple - Session 5

Thu, 21 Oct 2021 21:18:40 GMT

Your Body is God's Temple - Week 5

Week 5 - The Vital Importance of Communion in Healing Our Land

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Your Body is God's Temple - Session 4

Thu, 14 Oct 2021 20:51:53 GMT

Your Body is God's Temple - Week 4

Week 4

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Your Body is God's Temple - Session 3

Thu, 07 Oct 2021 18:36:17 GMT

Your Body is God's Temple - Week 3

Week 3

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Your Body is God's Temple - Session 2

Thu, 30 Sep 2021 18:08:25 GMT

Your Body is God's Temple - Session 2

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Your Body is God's Temple - Session 1

Thu, 23 Sep 2021 16:34:03 GMT

Your Body is God's Temple - Session 1

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Lessons Learned from King Hezekiah and the Rebuilding of the Temple

Mon, 28 Jun 2021 19:34:02 GMT

How to Handle Change - An Amazing Application for Us Today ( Eps. 19)

Listen on Apple Podcasts - CLICK HERE

If you are having problems handling change today, you do not want to miss this podcast...

"WHO WILL SAVE US NOW THAT THE MONSTER COVID-19 HAS BROKEN FREE?

THE PANDEMIC HAS HUMBLED THE COUNTRY AND THE WORLD

HAS OPENED UP MILLIONS OF EYES TO THE RISKY UNIVERSE ONCE MORE."

~WALL STREET JOURNAL~

Page 37-38 Your Body Is God's Temple

In this episode:

We talk about King Hezekiah and what we can learn from his example in 2 Kings.
We also hear from Ruth as she shares how she has learned to handle change.
We will also hear from Dr. Peter. Daniels on how to handle change from his own life. This is very helpful.

Luke 12:7-8 - "Indeed, the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Don’t be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows. I tell you, whoever publicly acknowledges me before others, the Son of Man will also acknowledge before the angels of God."

Jeremiah 29:11 - Then you will call on me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart. I will be found by you,” declares the Lord

Hezekiah was a God-fearing man. God gives us the same choice today what are we doing to look after God‘s temple which is our bodies?

How does Ruth handle change?

Serenity prayer - God, grant me the Serenity to accept the things I cannot change... Courage to change the things I can, And Wisdom to know the difference.

As I get older change gets a little more treacherous. Change can cause anxiety. It can also be exciting.
During change information is powerful. During change communication really helps and is healthy.
If I’m going through change, guaranteed it’s going to be uncomfortable. I must recognize that life isn’t fair and not compare.
The very best way to embrace change is following the Lord because he is the same yesterday today and forever.
God is with us every step of the way in change. And what is he saying? He saying, "trust." Proverbs 3: 5-6

The challenge of change

On page 43 in the book are seven comments from Dr. Peter Daniels from Australia. It’s called "The Challenge of Change"

Recognize that God is the provider and stabilizer in change
Keep your mind on the things that you want and also on the things that you do not want
Be nice to people, be patient, give God the glory, and do not let your mind be determined by failure.

It is Well With My Soul

The incredible background to the hymn, "It is Well with My Soul." Written by Horacio Spafford. He lost everything overnight in a fire, he also lost his son shortly after. Then, only his wife survived the sinking of the ship and his four daughters died. The hymn was penned near the place where his four children perished.

King Hezekiah

On pages 74 and 75 of the book we talk about eight things that happened when King Hezekiah re-instituted Passover.

It is recorded that Hezekiah honoured and kept the Passover and here is what God did:

God forgave all their sins
People were healed people physically
There was a time of great worship and joy. They were happy.
The word of God was being taught
The people were blessed and their prayers went right to heaven
God restored financial abundance
The King encouraged people to trust the Lord and then then he worked with the to rebuild the walls to protect them from their enemies

The application is King Hezekiah humbled himself before God and we must do the same and begin repairing our bodies like they are God‘s temple. We need to repair our bodies physically, emotionally, and spiritually.

An Invitation to Join our Community

We would like you invite you to join our community. It is a worldwide faith and prayer movement to heal our land and perform miracles in our lives. Contact us today

Next Podcast

Our next podcast will be another great story from the Old Testament about Habakkuk. Get this: Habakkuk was told to write down his vision in the middle of a pandemic.

_ _ _ _ _

Music: "Let the Temple" Dave Johannesson

Introduction and close: Christiana Walter

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The Amazing Life Changing Truth

Wed, 09 Jun 2021 16:51:37 GMT

The Amazing Life Changing Truth (Eps. 18)

Listen on Apple Podcasts - CLICK HERE

What Barry's Friends have to say about the book

“To recognize and receive the wondrous truth of being God’s temple is the beginning of walking and living a supernatural life” Michael Ellison, author of 10 Habits of Wellness.

“You will be spellbound as you begin this journey with Barry, as those of us who have already enjoyed many inspirational times with him. He has revealed so many amazing truths that need to be publicized.” Jim Janz, author of A Rendezvous

“Great read! Easy to follow! Love the style and flow of the written material. Super informative! I will definitely read it again and share it with others. You definitely receive 5 stars from me.” Sherri H.

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Our Bodies Are Amazing Creations

Mon, 15 Mar 2021 17:57:44 GMT

Our Bodies Are Amazing Creations

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What God Wants You To Know

Sun, 14 Mar 2021 18:55:03 GMT

Chapter 14 of Your Body is God's Temple

One of the Most Important Chapters in the Bible

Luke chapter 21 is worth studying!

Why? These are the personal words of Jesus Christ himself about His predictions of the present and future.

Summary:

• Verses 1-4 – The widow’s two mites.

• Verses 5-6 – Jesus predicts the destruction of the Temple.

• Verses 7-19 – The signs of the times in which we live and the future end of the age.

• Verses 20-24 – The destruction of the Temple and why this is so important to us today.

• Verses 25-28 – The second coming of Jesus Christ.

• Verses 29-33 – The parable of the fig tree and how this applies to us today.

• Verses 34-38 – What should our attitude be until the return of Jesus Christ? This is really important to understand because we want to be with Him for his Third Coming.

The second time Christ is coming for His saints.

The third time He comes with His saints.

After this teaching, Jesus celebrated the Passover (Luke 22:1-2). We celebrate until He comes with Communion (1 Corinthians 11:17-34).

Luke 21

Verses 1-4

The Temple had thirteen metal containers in which to receive oﬀerings. The larger the coin, the more noise it would make. The widow’s mite was the smallest of coins (2 Corinthians 6:10). The rich gave out of their abundance (2 Corinthians 8:12-15).

Verses 5-6

Jesus said that the Temple would be destroyed. Remember, Solomon’s Temple took seven years to build and cost about 300 million dollars. It was 11 stories high and could house about 10,000 people (the world’s first mega church).

Jerusalem and the Temple was destroyed in 70 AD by the Romans. It is said that the blood of thousands of people who were killed flowed down the stairs of the Temple.

Verses 7-11 – The Signs of the Times and the End of the Age

1. The appearing of false prophets: Jesus warned us to be aware in Mathew 7:15-20. Paul warns us in Ephesians 5:6 and 1 Timothy 4:1-5.

2. We will hear of wars and rumors of wars. There are more than 40 wars taking place today in 2020.

3. Earthquakes: In 2019 there were 1,617 earthquakes with a magnitude of five points or more on the Richter scale. There were thousands more smaller earthquakes.

The largest earthquake the world has ever seen has not taken place as yet. The last two plagues to come are explained in Revelations 16:17-21 where we are told two things:

• Hailstones will come, a hundred pounds or more.

• An earthquake will destroy islands and mountains (Isaiah 54:10).

4. Famines: “Today the world stands on the brink of unprecedented famine” – Oxfam International

5. Pestilence (plague or pandemic/deadly infection). The Bible speaks of a pestilence 127 times and God uses many of them to bring people and nations to repentance (Joel Rosenberg, page 17).

6. We are told there will be fearful sights and great signs from heaven.

The Bible does not indicate what the fearful sights could be, however, today as we see all the recent fires, floods, storms, terror, and violence, consider this: Paul tells us that in the End Times perilous (stressful/dangerous/ threatening) times will come. Paul lists 18 signs, and all are very prevalent today (2 Timothy 3:1-5). “Love of Self Is A Basic Sin from Which All Others Flow” – William Barkley.

In Mathew 24:5-8, Jesus tells us that all these things are the beginning of sorrows (birth pains). But then Jesus says, “The end is not yet,” and in Luke 21:9 we are told not to be terrified (not to be frightened).

Verse 12

Times of Persecution Will Come. Not only are they coming, but they are here today. People today are being slaughtered by the tens of thousands for their faith according to Open Borders. Johnny Moore recently visited Nigeria, which is the richest county in Africa with about 200 million people and millions of natural resources, especially gas and oil. He reports from a personal visit with unimaginable stories that out of every ten Christians murdered today, seven are in Nigeria.

Persecution (which means to suﬀer) does not necessarily mean death (Acts 22:7-8: Paul persecuted Jesus, 2 Timothy 3:10-12: All will suﬀer persecution).

Verse 13

But these persecutions will give great opportunity to testify. Paul’s aﬄictions promoted the gospel (Philippians 1:12-18).

Verses 14-15

Do not meditate (premeditate) on what you will say when persecuted because the Holy Spirit will give you words and wisdom on what to say (Acts 6:10 and Luke 12:11-12).

Verses 16-19

Jesus warned the disciples that they would be hated and betrayed, even by families, for their faith. The only disciple not murdered was the Apostle John.

God’s Vision to Daniel about End Times is Very Fascinating:

The time of the end (Daniel 12:1-4): The Holy Spirit tells Daniel to shut up the words, and seal the book, even to the end of time; many shall run two and fro, and knowledge shall be increased. Travel today: we have gone from walking to horseback-riding to horse and buggy to trains to automobiles to planes and, finally, outer space. Knowledge over the years used to double maybe every hundred years or so, then every fifty years, then every 25 years. Today, research shows that knowledge is doubling every 12 months and is on its way to doubling every month and, eventually, every 12 hours because of the internet.

Verses 20-24

The destruction of the Temple was foretold by Jesus and occurred during the Jewish-Roman war of 70 AD. The siege of the city began on April 14, 70 AD, which was three days before the beginning of Passover. The siege lasted for about five months and ended in August 70 AD. Josephus claimed that approximately 1.1 million Jewish people were slaughtered with much blood flowing down the steps of the Temple. He also claimed that about 97,000 Jewish people were put into slavery.

Israel was then trampled by the Gentiles until May 14, 1948, when, in one day, it was reestablished as the Jewish homeland (Isaiah 66:8).

Verses 25-28 The Second Coming of Jesus Christ

Jesus said there will be signs in the sun/moon/stars/ with seas waiting.

Consider today that all of these are occurring worldwide.

What Should Our Attitude Be?

Look up/Lift our heads because Jesus is coming soon.

• Matthew 24:27-31

• 2 Peter 3:10-12

• 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18

• 1 Corinthians 15:51-54

Verses 29-33 The Parable of the Fig Tree

Why would Jesus speak of this parable?

The first tree mentioned in the Bible was the tree of Knowledge of Good and Evil (Genesis 2:16-17). God gave man a choice.

The second tree mentioned: The Fig Tree which Adam and Eve used to cover their nakedness (Genesis 3:7). The fig tree takes three years to bear fruit. Jesus taught for three years and look at the fruit He bore! The story of the sycamore tree is absolutely phenomenal.

Jesus goes on to say that a generation will by no means pass away till all things are fulfilled. I believe this refers to the generation when we see all these biblical prophecies being fulfilled, which is certainly today.

Verses 34-38

We are Warned to Watch for His Coming

Verse 34

Do not live your life surfeiting (to pack with baggage, with wild living). Because the Lord wants us to be aware of His soon coming.

Verse 35

The result of not watching for the Lord’s return is that it is like a snare (a noose). The word snare is used to mean “of the devil” in 2 Timothy 2:26 and 1 Timothy 3:7.

Verse 36 Preparation for His Coming

To watch (to be sleepless/but to be intent on what will happen)—used in Ephesians 16 and Hebrews 13:17.

In fact, Luke tells us in Luke 19:13 to occupy (which means to do business or trade) till I come.

Verses 37-38

This is very interesting and meaningful for us today. Jesus taught in the Temple in Solomon’s Porch (John 10:23) as did Peter and John (Acts 3:11). Jesus then went out to the Mount of Olives.

Importance of the Mount of Olives

• Jesus Christ ascended into Heaven from the Mount of Olives (Acts 1:6-12).

• As the angel said, Jesus Christ will return a second time and we know this as the Rapture (which means to be caught up) (1 Thessalonians 4:13-18, 1 Corinthians 15:51-58).

• The angel said that He would return to the Mount of Olives but this time the Mount will split in two (Zachariah 14:1-4). They have discovered a fault line today running right through the Mount of Olives.

• The first time He returns it is for His saints. The second time at the end of the Tribulation period He comes with His saints.

• After this teaching, Jesus celebrated the Passover and we are given the same opportunity to celebrate the work of Jesus and His coming with Communion (1 Corinthians 11:17-34).

Conclusion

Are We Living in the End Times? Ninety Percent of Pastors Say We Are

What should be our action and attitude today? To develop a Biblical Worldview which should be based on the inspired Word of God. We live in a world of increasing globalization with many world views to consider.

Research indicates that only between 6 to 10% of Christians have a Biblical Worldview.

– The Cultural Research Center.

Why should you consider a Biblical world view? The Bible is by far the world’s bestseller with sales well over 4 billion and approximately 100 million every year. Today, Bible sales are exploding. There must be a reason for this!

There are two ways to read the Bible:

1. The Greek word is Logas, which means “the written word.”

2. Rhema, which means revealed to you personally.

2 Timothy 3:16-17

Verse 16: All scripture (not some of it) is given by the inspiration of God. The Holy Spirit used 40 authors who were all Jewish except for Doctor Luke who wrote Luke and Acts. The Word of God is profitable (helpful and serviceable) for:

• Doctrine which means teaching/information/ learning.

• Reproof which means conviction/evidence/ proving.

• Correction which means reformation/ restoration/improvement of life and character.

• Instruction/education.

Why?

• That the man or woman of God may be made perfect, which means complete.

• That you may be thoroughly equipped to do every good work.

There are about 1000 prophecies in the Bible:

• Remember the Bible is approximately 30% prophetic.

• About 500 prophecies have been fulfilled.

• Of the 500, about 300 concern the Second Coming of Jesus Christ.

“There are no prophecies yet to be fulfilled before the return of Jesus Christ.”

– Dr. Ed Hinson, Author of the book Target Israel and End Times prophecy scholar.

Understanding How Important We Are To The Lord

Fri, 26 Feb 2021 18:54:12 GMT

Understanding How Important We Are To The Lord (Eps. 17)

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Your Body Is God's Temple Book Release Episode

Sat, 06 Feb 2021 21:23:32 GMT

Your Body Is God's Temple Book Release Episode (Eps. 16)

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How to Handle Fear

Sat, 16 Jan 2021 19:13:31 GMT

An Answer to Our Response to Fear (Eps. 15)

5 COMMON FEARS

1. Future events

2. Past events

3. The unknown

4. Public speaking

5. Failure and being incompetent

Confession: I confess that find it really difficult sometimes to get my head around the incredible fact that God’s Temple dwells within us. How about you? But I thank God for it.

1st Corinthians 3:16-17 1st Corinthians 6:18-20

Many, if not most people, make the mistake of thinking that God cares only about the spiritual. But God wants us to be whole in Soul and Body as well as Spirit. (3 John: 2).

4. God has approved a ready-to-go and tested vaccine for immediate release.

Two major ingredients of God’s vaccine:

1) FAITH

2) PRAYER

5. A brief look at how God’s vaccine works.

FEAR NOT! – Isaiah 43 – The Bible uses the word “FEAR NOT” or “BE NOT AFRAID” 103 times.

Background – When this was written, the people of Judah had reason to be afraid of the

Babylonian army which could mean potential death or exile.

6. God’s first words in Isaiah 43: “FEAR NOT” (Do not be frightened). Isaiah 43:1

7. GOD’S ANSWER OR INSTRUCTIONS ON HOW TO PLAN FOR THE FUTURE – THIS IS INCREDIBLE. Isaiah 43: 18-19 Here is what God says to us today:

Verse 18: “Remember not (think on it) the former things, neither consider the things of old.”

Verse 19 – “Behold I will do (accomplish and advance) a new thing. Now it shall spring

forth, shall ye not even know it? I will even make a way in the wilderness and rivers in

the desert.”

NO-ONE BUT THE LORD CAN MAKE ROADS IN A WILDERNESS OR RIVERS IN THE DESERT.

"Optimism is the faith that leads to achievement. Nothing can be done without hope and confidence in God." – Helen Keller
Hope is being able to see that there’s light/ despite all the darkness – Desmond Tutu
Hope is waking up a dream – Aristotle

8. OUR RESPONSE TO FEAR.

There are about 1,600 IFs in the Bible: 800 Old Testament, 500 New Testament. The word IF appears in all 66 books of the Bible and indicates that someone has to make a decision.

THE WORD IF IS INTERESTING. IT IS ONE OF THE MOST IMPORTANT WORDS IN THE BIBLE BECAUSE IT SPEAKS DIRECTLY TO OUR RESPONSIBILITY TO GOD. MOST PROMISES IN THE BIBLE HAVE CONDITIONS AND THE WORD “IF” SPEAKS TO THOSE CONDITIONS. OUR RESPONSES TO GOD’S COMMANDS AFFECT OUR RELATIONSHIP WITH HIM AND DETERMINES OUR RECEIVING FROM HIM.

WE WILL LOOK AT THREE EXAMPLES OF HOW GOD’S VACCINE WORKS WHEN WE APPLY IT HIS WAY 2nd Chronicles 7:13-15

IF God decides to: God’s Vaccine IF my people:

1. Send rain 1. Humble themselves

2. Send locusts 2. Pray

3. Send pestilence 3. Seek

4. Turn (repent)

Here’s an incredible example of how God’s vaccine works (VERSE 14):

1. God will hear us

2. God will forgive us

3. God will heal our land.

THIS IS AN INCREDIBLE EXAMPLE OF HOW GOD’S VACCINE WORKS

God will heal (divine intervention/return to normal) our land. God always deals with the symptoms before He deals with the prescription.
How to ask God for wisdom? James 1:2-4 – God’s diagnoses when you have problems. Prescription: Verse 5-8 IF you lack wisdom ask for it in faith. I read James 1:2-8 every day and does it ever work.
Another verse I read first thing every morning and apply this vaccine to my life, and it gives me incredible encouragement: Philippians 4:6

Coming Soon by Podcast and a Brand-New E-Book: THE BODY IS THE TEMPLE OF GOD: And what can occur when we treat our bodies as God’s Temple

CONTENTS OF THE COMPLETE 8 WEEK PODCAST PLUS A NEW E-BOOK PREPARED TO HELP YOU STUDY PERSONALLY OR IN SMALL GROUPS WHEN PERMITTED, WHICH WILL REALLY ENCOURAGE YOU.

Shalom, Barry

Complete study notes for this episode - CLICK HERE

Last episode: CLICK HERE

How To Handle Trials and Tribulations God's Way

Fri, 27 Nov 2020 23:54:19 GMT

How To Handle Trials and Tribulations God's Way (Eps. 13)

Are You Experiencing Trials and Tribulations Today?

If so, this podcast series will greatly assist you on how to ask God for wisdom for handling trials God’s way.

Quote from Wall Street Journal

“Who will save us now that the monster COVID-19 has broken free? The pandemic has humbled the country and the world and has opened up millions of eyes to this risky universe once more.”

“My body is a temple, and my temple needs redecorating.” – Joan Rivers

DID YOU KNOW THAT GOD HAS A VACCINE THAT IS APPROVED IN WRITING, AND TESTED, WITH INSTRUCTIONS FOR LIFE TODAY? AMAZING.

WHY? BECAUSE YOUR BODY IS HIS TEMPLE.

Understanding This Incredible Principle that your Body is the Temple of God is an Amazing, Life-Changing Fact.

This podcast series will address how to apply God’s approved vaccine to any challenge that you may have, including:

1. Financial

2. Health
3. Marriage

4. Family

5. Relationships

6. Business
7. Personal
8. Any Other Area

God did not promise days without pain. God did not promise laughter without sorrow. God did not promise sun without rain. Here is the Good News. God DID promise strength for the day, comfort for the tears, and light for the way.

(If God brings you to it, He will bring you through it.)

Now the Big News: GOD HAS PROMISED THAT WE CAN BECOME HIS TEMPLE. THIS IS AN OVERWHELMING AND AWESOME THOUGHT.

God is not concerned about a brick and mortar temple, but He is highly concerned for us as His temple (1st Corinthians 3:16-18, 1st Corinthians 6: 17-20). We are His workmanship – created to do good works (Ephesians 2:10). And we are fearfully and wonderfully made (Psalm 139:14).

How To Handle Trials and Tribulations God’s Way: Remember You are God’s Temple

“Trials teach us who we are. They dig up the soil and let us see what we are made of.” – Charles Spurgeon
“True faith is not going to get you out of a hard place, but to change your heart out of a hard place.” – David Wilkinson
“The Bible was not given for our information but for our transformation.” – Dwight L. Moody
“God does not expect the impossible from us. God wants us to expect the impossible from Him.” – Dwight L. Moody
“We all face storms in life. Some are more difficult than others, but we all go through trials and tribulations. That is why God gives us the gift of faith.” – Joyce Meyer
“Faith is the refusal to panic.” – Dr. Martyn Lloyd Jones

THE VITAL IMPORTANCE OF A BIBLICAL WORLDVIEW

“A worldview is the most important thing that we know about a man or a woman.” – Richard Weaver
“A Biblical worldview approach to life and learning has never been more needed than ever in today’s Pluralistic/Postmodern culture. Christians today face hostility to their faith from one side, and apathy from anything of importance on the other side. Sadly, the casualties are high.” – Chuck Edwards
“A worldview is a way of viewing or interpreting all of reality. It is an interpretative framework through which or by which, one makes sense of the day of life and the world.” - Norman Geifler
"The human mind has no more power of inventing a new value than of planting a new sun in the sky or a new primary colour in the spectrum.” - C.S. Lewis

THE PROVISION

Very important . The only way a person can experience the provision of God is to have a personal relationship with God. This opportunity is simply to accept Jesus Christ as your personal Savior for the forgiveness of sins and life everlasting (John 3:14-21).

SCRIPTURES TO READ DAILY BEFORE ASKING GOD FOR WISDOM

1. 2nd Timothy 1:7

For God has not given us a spirit of fear (to be timid/to be afraid/to be a coward) but a power (English: dynamite. This is the word used for the Holy Spirit) of love (a love feast) and of a sound mind (self-control/discipline/judgment).

2. Psalms 3 (A morning prayer), Psalm 4 (An evening prayer).
Psalm 4:8 (evening prayer) – In peace I will lie down and sleep, for you alone, LORD, make me dwell

in safety.

Psalm 3:5-6 (morning prayer) – I lay down and slept, I awoke, for the LORD sustained me. I will not be afraid of tens of thousands of people.

3. 1st Peter 5:6-7

God resists the proud but gives grace to the humble. Therefore, humble yourself under the mighty hand of God that He may exalt you at the proper time. Casting (tossing) all your anxiety on Him for He cares for you.

4. Philippians 4: 6-7

Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication (a petition or a request), with thanksgiving let your request be known to God. And the peace of God which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.

5. Isaiah 41:10

Do not fear, for I am with you, do not be afraid, for I am your God. I will hold on to you with my righteous right hand.

6. Isaiah 26:3

You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is bent on You, because he trusts in You.

A Vision for All of Us

BEHOLD, I WILL DO SOMETHING NEW, NOW IT WILL SPRING FORTH. WILL YOU NOT BE AWARE OF IT? I WILL EVEN MAKE A ROADWAY IN THE WILDERNESS, AND RIVERS IN THE DESERT. – ISAIAH 43:19

What does God want from us? Hebrews 13:15-16: Through Jesus, therefore, let us continually offer to God a sacrifice of praise – the fruit of our lips that openly profess His name. and do not forget to do good and to share with others, FOR WITH SUCH SACRIFICES GOD IS PLEASED.

Benediction: The Lord bless you and keep you. The Lord make His face to shine upon you and be gracious to you. The Lord lift up His countenance upon you and give you peace.

Complete study notes for this episode - CLICK HERE

Last episode: CLICK HERE

Finding Joy In Your Corner

Wed, 04 Nov 2020 18:48:01 GMT

Finding Joy In Your Corner (Eps. 12)

In this episode Ruth Borthistle, and Sharon Janz discuss the ways they are coping and finding joy in the midst of COVID 19.

Quotes and sayings from this episode

Out of this, we have come to realize how we want to live. I want to have more joy - Sharon
It’s going to take some new disciplines to navigate - Ruth
I look at a different word every day and joy is one of the word projects that I have gone through. I have found that joy is a habit of choice. - Sharon
A big part of joy is being grateful. What am I joyful for today? - Sharon
I have to talk to myself some days - Ruth
For me, it’s important to exercise every day rain or shine - Ruth
I find the time flies when I listen to a podcast and biking. - Ruth
Exercise is also a time for me to think, pray and meditate - Sharon
I noticed in our local parks newsletter mentions walks and hobbies - Ruth
I love the library - Ruth
I’m thinking about getting an accordion to learn something new - Ruth
Covid has given me more of an appreciation for friends and thinking of people and how I should connect with them. - Sharon
We soak up every morsel of connection don’t we? - Ruth
Living alone is so challenging for some of our friends and my heart goes out to them. - Ruth
Laughter is an important ingredient of joy. - Ruth
I created a daily chart for myself outlining the daily activities. Otherwise, I was going to be a drifter. I needed that accountability to myself and to others. It worked! - Ruth
Accountability is vulnerability and honesty. - Sharo n
I think it’s so important these days to be walking with God. - Ruth
God’s word has become a staple. - Sharon
Our children and our friends are watching to see how we are coping. This is a time for some discipling. - Ruth

I rejoice in life for its own sake. Life is no “brief candle” for me. It is a sort of splendid torch which I have got hold of for the moment, and I want to make it burn as brightly as possible before handing it on to future generations.

~ George Bernard Shaw

James 1:2 Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, 3 because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. 4 Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.

Everything that is happening in our lives is developing perseverance. - Sharon
Go and have a great day. - Ruth

Last episode: CLICK HERE

The Power of Prayer (Ep. 11)

Mon, 19 Oct 2020 16:22:18 GMT

The Power of Prayer (Eps. 11)

INTRODUCTION

GOD DID NOT PROMISE DAYS WITHOUT PAIN.

GOD DID NOT PROMISE LAUGHTER WITHOUT SORROW.

GOD DID NOT PROMISE SUN WITHOUT RAIN.

HERE IS THE GOOD NEWS...

GOD DID PROMISE STRENGTH FOR THE DAY,

COMFORT FOR YOUR TEARS,

AND LIGHT FOR YOUR WAY.

If God brings you to it, He will bring you through it.

Now the Big News:

GOD HAS PROMISED THAT WE CAN BECOME HIS TEMPLE.

THIS IS AN OVERWHELMING AND AWESOME THOUGHT.

Quotes on Prayer

1. The most powerful prayer is to pray God’s word because God’s word will not be returned void.

2. Prayer is the beans of sustaining your faith which sometimes can grow weak.

3. Prayer is powerful, it can heal. Prayer can give and can change lives. – Pope Francis

4 Prayer helps us find strength for today and hope for tomorrow. – CS Lewis

5. Prayer – lays hold of God’s plan for our lives. – Elizabeth Elliot

6. When you are done in the dark, listen and God will give you a very precious message. – Oswald Chambers.

7. In prayer worship, God implants Himself into us. – CS Lewis

8. When I wake up in the morning, I have work/work/work to do. So much work that I have to spend the first three hours in prayer. – Martin Luther

9. To get nations and people back on their feet, we need to get them on their knees first. – Billy Graham.

10. I do not believe that one can earnestly seek and find the priceless treasures of God’s Word and His calling on your life without an effective prayer life. – Ravi Zacharias

Nothing is impossible when God is on your side – help is found in God’s Word.

1. Hope (Psalm 42:5)

2. Waiting (Ps. 27:14)

3. Anxiety (1 ^st Peter 5:7)

4. Courage (Deuteronomy 31:6)

5. Peace (John 14:27)

6. Helplessness (Psalm 34:17)

7. Anger (Ephesians 4:26-27)

8. Forgiveness (1 ^st John 1:5-10, Matthew 6:14-15)

9. Hurt (Psalm 147:3)

10. Weariness (Matthew 7:28)

11. Strength Philippians 4:13

12. Fear (Joshua 1:9)

THIS IS A TIME FOR SPIRITUAL FITNESS, PRAYER, THE POWER OF HOPE

Hope for believers is not an illusion. It is the assurance that good things are going to happen based upon the promises in God’s Word. IF YOUR MARRIAGE IS FAILING, IF YOUR BUSINESS OR FINANCES ARE SINKING, IF YOUR CHILDREN ARE IN TROUBLE, IF YOUR HEALTH IS AT RISK, THERE IS HOPE IN THE LIVING GOD.

TAKE TIME TO PREPARE FOR PRAYER

Jesus is taking time today to prepare a place for us; John 14:1-3. Preparation for prayer is very important so that God will hear our prayers.

Here are 8 prayer principles:

1. Repent of all known sin; 1 ^st John 1:5-10 (there are 5 ifs here - our choice).

2. God cannot hear us if we do not repent of sin; Psalms 66:18-20.

3. Forgive others otherwise God cannot forgive us; Matthew 7:14-15.

4. Do not worry. Worry is a sin; Matthew 6: 24-34.

5. Like Solomon, ask God for wisdom; James 1:5-6, but ask in faith; Hebrews 11:6.

6. You have not because you ask not. Keep on asking; Matthew 7:7-8, John 15:7.

7. Always address your prayer to the Father; Matthew 6:9-15. Ask everything in the name of Jesus; John 14 13-14. Remember the Holy Spirit intercedes for us (the meaning of intercession is to meet with, to make a petition Romans 8:25-28).

8. For husbands only: Dwell with your wife with understanding and honour because if you do not your prayers will be hindered (cut off). Remember, your wife was created to be your helpmeet which means DIVINE AID (Genesis 2:18).

The Holy Spirit intercedes for us to Jesus Christ who then intercedes for us to the Father; Romans 8:34, Hebrews 7:25. Remember to please the Holy Spirit and do not grieve the Holy Spirit because you are the Temple of the Holy Spirit (Ephesians 4:28-32).

Final Thoughts

1. God dwells in the praises of His people; Psalms 22:3.

2. David Wilkinson said, “the blood of Jesus Christ is the most powerful force in the universe.”

3. Apply the precious blood of Jesus to your prayer requests.

4. Consider taking communion as often as possible but, like prayer, take time to prepare; 1 ^st Corinthians 11:17-34.

5. Waiting for God is not laziness.

6. Waiting for God is not the abandonment of effort.

7. Waiting for God means activity under command.

8. Waiting means readiness for any new command that may come.

9. Waiting is the ability to do nothing till the command is given. If the eagles can do it so can we; Isaiah 40:31. 17

Learning to Wait on the Lord

We will not survive spiritually if we do not learn to wait (Psalms 130:5-6).

WAIT WITH PATIENCE

WAIT IN PRAYER. “Out of the depths, I have cried to you Lord. Lord hear my voice.” Psalms 130: 1-2

WAIT ON PURPOSE. My soul waits silently for God, alone. He is my rock and my salvation. He is my defence; I will not be shaken.” Psalm 62:5-6

STAND IN FAITH EVEN WHEN YOU ARE HAVING THE HARDEST TIME OF YOUR LIFE

Isaiah 40:31: The prophet Isaiah gives us a great example of waiting: “But those who wait on the Lord, shall renew their strength. They shall mount up with wings like eagles. They shall run and not be weary. They shall walk and not faint.”

There are many amazing facts about eagles but here are just a few:

1. They mate for life.

2. They return to the same nest year after year.

3. When it comes time for their children to leave the nest, they mount their children on their wings and then fly into the air and flip them off. If the youngsters can’t fly, they catch them and take them back to the nest and try it again in a few days.

4. Eagles have been known to fly as fast as over a hundred kilometres per hour and if there is a storm they fly into the storm and use the currents of air to accomplish their goals.

That’s what makes this verse so motivating for us in our lives.

This is Amazing

God Reveals to Us How We Are to React to a Pandemic

Solomon’s Temple Prayer – 2 ^nd Chronicles 6:12-42

Verses 1 to 3 – God promises Solomon a place to worship.

Verses 4-11 – Solomon blessed the people.

What is the power of the spiritual blessing? A Biblical blessing is a statement which involves the blessing of God upon the life of another person; Numbers 6: 24-26.

Solomon’s Temple Prayer

Solomon the King knelt down with arms lifted up to heaven in front of all his people. It is important to remember that when God asked Solomon what he wanted, Solomon’s response: He asked for wisdom; 1 ^st Kings 3:3-13. God has extended the same offer to us; James 1: 5-6.

Solomon prayed for 12 things:

God’s faithfulness – verses 14-16
God’s continuous faithfulness – verses 16-17
God’s omnipresence – verses 18
Plea for answer to prayer – verses 19-21
Plea for just judgement – verses 22-23
Plea for forgiveness of sin – verses 24-25
Forgiveness and rain from heaven – verses 26-27
Plea for God’s help in a time of pestilence/war and sickness – verses 28-31
Blessings on Gentiles who are seeking God – verses 22-23
Plea for God’s help in war even if no sin had been committed – verses 34-35.
Plea for help in war when sin had been committed – verses 36-39
Plea for God’s continued presence and blessing – verses 40-42 19

2 ^nd Chronicles 7:1-11 – Result of Solomon’s prayers: Divine acceptance and God’s Glory entered the Temple.

2 ^nd Chronicles 7:12-22

God appeared to Solomon a second time, 20 years after the dedication of the Temple; 2 ^nd Chronicles 8:1.

2 ^nd Chronicles 7:13-15 - God obviously knew that the people would not be obedient after Solomon’s dedication prayer. This is God speaking to us today: In verse 13, God says “if” three times, which means it is His choice, and there are 1,522 instances of the word “if” in the Bible.

1. “If I stop the rain…”

2. “If I command locust to devour the land…”

3. If I send pestilence…”

Today, there are billions of locusts destroying the food supply in parts of Africa and East Asia. Pestilence is a contagious, infectious disease greatly affecting us today with COVID-19.

Verse 14 – To me, this is one of the most incredible verses in the Bible because it is directed to us today. “If [our choice] my people who are called by name will do four things…”

Humble themselves which means to bend the knee. It is used in 2 ^nd Chronicles 34:27. Spurgeon said voluntary humbleness is what God is looking for (that’s what Solomon did).
Pray. Pray means to make supplication, to ask for. There are at least 12 preparation steps for prayer in order for God to even hear our prayer. Details to follow. Two of the most important are repentance; 1 ^st John 1:5-10 (5 “ifs” in that chapter) and forgiveness of others; Matthew 6:14-15.
Seek my face. Seek me to search out, to worship or to request; Psalm 80: 7,19.
Turn from your wicked ways. Turn means return to the starting point or to relinquish. Solomon used the word turn three times in his prayer; 2 ^nd Chronicles 6:26,37,42.

If We Do These 3 Things Here is God’s Promise to Us

I will hear you from Heaven. Hear means attention.
I will forgive your sin as far as the East is from the West (Psalm 103:12).
Heal our land which means to mend like a physician, to repair thoroughly, DIVINE INTERVENTION. The word heal is also used in Isaiah 53:5 in the context of our salvation.

Download notes for this episode (PDF): CLICK HERE

Last episode: CLICK HERE

Music by David Johannesson

How To Profit From Any Trial (Ep. 10)

Sat, 10 Oct 2020 22:16:08 GMT

How To Profit From Any Trial (Eps. 10)

INTRODUCTION

GOD DID NOT PROMISE DAYS WITHOUT PAIN.

GOD DID NOT PROMISE LAUGHTER WITHOUT SORROW.

GOD DID NOT PROMISE SUN WITHOUT RAIN.

HERE IS THE GOOD NEWS...

GOD DID PROMISE STRENGTH FOR THE DAY,

COMFORT FOR YOUR TEARS,

AND LIGHT FOR YOUR WAY.

If God brings you to it, He will bring you through it.

Now the Big News:

GOD HAS PROMISED THAT WE CAN BECOME HIS TEMPLE.

THIS IS AN OVERWHELMING AND AWESOME THOUGHT.

THE PROMISE

The Vital Importance of a Biblical Worldview

“A worldview is the most important thing that we know about a man or a woman” – Richard Weaver
“A Biblical worldview approach to life and learning has never been more needed than in today’s Pluralistic/Postmodern culture. Christians today face hostility to their faith from one side, and apathy from anything of importance on the other side. Sadly, the casualties are high” – Chuck Edwards
Part of God’s promise is that in the world today we will have trials and tribulations (John 16:33, 2nd Timothy 3:12, John 15:20, Psalms 34:17-19). “The Lord will test the righteous. The greater the test, the greater the calling of God on your life.” ~ Ravi Zacharias

THE PROVISION

Very important . The only way a person can experience the provision of God is to have a personal relationship with God. This opportunity is simply to accept Jesus Christ as your personal Saviour for the forgiveness of sins and life everlasting (John 3:14-21).

GOD’S WAY OF PROVISION FOR HANDLING A PROBLEM

James 1:2-8 – This is a life-changing provision experience. Trust me, I know.

This provision includes trials of all kinds, whether it be:

Financial
Business
Health
Marriage
Family
Personal
Other

James 1:2-8: Strong Recommendation – Read Out loud as Often as Necessary as a Prayer to the Lord

How to Profit from Trials or How Shall We Then Live?

Verse 2: COUNT (to lead the way/to have rule over/to be chief).

The Jewish-culture believer believed that the more trials you have the closer you are to God. Paul in 2nd Timothy 3:12 teaches that trials are part of a godly life.

JOY (Calm delight/cheerfulness/exceeding gladness)

The joy with which we endure trials in the present is a signal of hope for future relief.

FALL INTO (to fall into something that surrounds you/to light upon you). Like the story of the Good Samaritan, you may not even have caused the trial.

Read the Good Samaritan story (Luke 10:25-37). – Details on page 7.

Remember that Jesus taught that the two greatest commandments were:

1. To love God with all of your heart/soul/mind. Remember your body is the Temple of the Holy Spirit who lives within you (1st Corinthians 3:16-17, 6:18-20).

2. To love (agape) others as you love yourself.

DIVERS (various in character).

TEMPTATIONS (adversity, trials with a beneficial purpose and effect). The Lord knows how to deliver the godly out of trials and temptation (2nd Peter 2:7-9). The Lord knows (which means to understand/divine knowledge. See Matthew 6:8).

Verse 3: KNOWING THIS (to understand/to realize).

THE TRYING OF YOURSELF (trying means to test).

What is faith? “Faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen (Hebrews 11:1).” How important is faith? Without faith it is impossible (impotent) to please God but He rewards those who diligently seek Him (Hebrews 11:6). Faith is a gift that God gives us, but we have to use it to make it grow (Romans 12:3).

PATIENCE (abiding under). Patience perfects the Christian character, so let patience have her perfect work. Patience is the ability to persevere through increasing levels of trials.

Verse 4: PERFECT WORK

THE AMPLIFIED BIBLE “But let endurance and steadfastness and patience have full play, and do a thorough work, so that you may be perfectly and fully developed lacking in nothing.”

WANTING NOTHING Jesus promised in Matthew 6:24-34 where He tells us to put God’s Kingdom first and all will be given to us.

THE DAKE BIBLE “Worry is a sin and can produce anxiety/fear/disease and even mental illness.”

“What happens when you worry? Your mind and body go into overdrive as you constantly focus on - WHAT MIGHT HAPPEN.” Web MD

Verse 5: WISDOM/IF - There are about 1600 ifs in the Bible and the word usually means that someone has to make a decision. God asked King Solomon what he wanted, and Solomon’s answer was found in 1st Kings 3:3-15 – “Lord, give your servant an understanding mind.”

God asks us the same question with a promise.

We are to ask (which means call up or to do something).
Giveth. Giveth is a present participle which means continual or repeated action with no indication of timing. In other words, it’s up to God.
Liberally (unconditional supply).

Verse 6: FAITH. Faith is our choice because if we do not ask in faith we are like a wave in the sea.

Ask is a present imperative which means a command to do something which includes continuous or repeated action. More on the importance of faith – page 13.

Matthew 7:7-8 tells us to keep on asking, keep on seeking and keep on knocking.

Verse 7: If we do not follow the principles of verses 2-6, we will receive nothing from the Lord. WHY?

Verse 8: Because we are double-minded (two spirited), vacillating in our original purpose, and we are unstable (restless in our ways) (James 4: 1-10). Loving the world means hating God.

Here is a checklist of qualities in your life that will assist you in assessing your action in obeying and trusting in the Lord, especially through trials:

Positive

Courage
Boldness
Patience
Steadfastness
Perseverance
Humility
Self-control
A caring heart
Compassion for others
Increased faith

Negative

Pride
Arrogance
Self-centeredness
Self-righteousness
Temper
Controlling Spirit
Know-it-all
Discouragement
Gossip
Blaming others/not forgiving

Remember, as the Temple of God, the Lord calls you such things as:

A Holy Priesthood
A Chosen Generation
A Holy Nation
A Peculiar People (the meaning of peculiar is acquisition or possession)

Our response to this is to PRAISE THE LORD (1st Peter 2:1-11).

The Good Samaritan Story (Luke 10:25-37)

Jesus was answering the question of a lawyer and He answered the question with a question (v. 26). Verses 27-29 tell us the story of a man travelling from Jerusalem to Jericho. This was a pathway of about 18 miles and was known as the bloody way. Jericho was a home to about 12,000 priests but was a beautiful city with palm trees.

Jesus answers the question with a parable (vs. 30-37).

The Samaritans were a blend of all kinds of mixed races and the Jewish people of the day had very little respect for them.

When the man fell amongst thieves three types of people passed by.

A priest whose main occupation was to offer sacrifices, and he had no compassion for the wounded man.
A Levite. Levites were descendants of Levi. They kept a distinct separation from the other eleven tribes so obviously had little compassion.
The Good Samaritan. The Good Samaritan shows us eight acts of mercy and compassion that we should show to others even if we disagree with them. Eight is a number of new beginnings in the Bible:
Had compassion.
Bound up his wounds.
Poured in oil.
Poured in wine.
Set him on his own beast.
Brought him to an inn.
Took care of him.
Offered to pay for his care if anything more was needed.

WHAT DOES THE BIBLE TEACH ABOUT PESTILENCE, PLAGUES AND GLOBAL PANDEMICS?

Joel C. Rosenberg, Founder and Chairman of the Joshua Fund

“While not every use of the words, pestilence and plagues, in the Bible refers to a terrible infectious disease, many of the references do. Throughout the Bible, we see repeated examples of God using diseases to accomplish His divine and sovereign purposes. There are also biblical prophecies that warn us that God intends to use terrible, infectious diseases to accomplish His divine and sovereign purposes in the future.”

What are God’s sovereign purposes for using such terrible diseases?

Executing divine judgment on an individual, a nation, or many nations for chronic, unrepented sin.
Warning other individuals and nations that they, too, could face divine judgment for chronic, unrepented sin.
Saving an individual, nation, or many nations so that they will wake up from spiritual slumber or rebellion, repent of their sins, and turn in faith to a holy, personal, Biblical, healthy relations to God. Repeatedly in the Bible, God explains that in His mercy He will shake individuals and nations in a desire to get our attention and draw us to Him.

Conclusion: Plagues are a way that God seeks to get our attention about our finite mortality as well as how we are giving attention to God, notes Dr. Darrell Bock, Theologian and Professor at Dallas Theological Seminary. They are an opportunity for reflection about how we live and a reminder we are not gods ourselves.

Consider this: Dr. Mike Evans, an author and founder of the Jerusalem prayer team, said that David Wilkinson shared this prophecy with him during a meeting in 1986:

“I see a plague coming on the world, and the bars, churches and government will be shut down. The plague will hit New York City and shake it like it has never been shaken. The plague is going to force prayerless believers into radical prayer and into their bibles, and repentance will be the cry from the man of God in the pulpit. Out of this will come a third GREAT Awakening that will sweep America and the world.”

Download notes for this episode (PDF): CLICK HERE

Last episode: CLICK HERE

Music by David Johannesson

How Live As God's Temple And Have Hope (Ep. 9)

Mon, 28 Sep 2020 20:38:17 GMT

How To Live As God's Temple and Have Hope (Ep. 9)

INTRODUCTION

GOD DID NOT PROMISE DAYS WITHOUT PAIN.

GOD DID NOT PROMISE LAUGHTER WITHOUT SORROW.

GOD DID NOT PROMISE SUN WITHOUT RAIN.

HERE IS THE GOOD NEWS...

GOD DID PROMISE STRENGTH FOR THE DAY,

COMFORT FOR YOUR TEARS,

AND LIGHT FOR YOUR WAY.

If God brings you to it, He will bring you through it.

Now the Big News:

GOD HAS PROMISED THAT WE CAN BECOME HIS TEMPLE.

THIS IS AN OVERWHELMING AND AWESOME THOUGHT.

Episode 9 - How To Live As God's Temple and Have Hope

As God's Temple, His biggest desire for us is to trust Him. I really encourage you to read Psalm 3.

F OR I KNOW THE THOUGHTS (PURPOSE) THAT I THINK TOWARD YOU, SAYS THE LORD. THOUGHTS OF PEACE (SHALOM/HAPPY, HEALTHY, PROSPERITY, FRIENDLY) AND NOT OF EVIL, AND TO GIVE YOUR FUTURE HOPE. WHEN WE DO THIS, HERE IS THE PROMISE OF GOD: THEN YOU WILL CALL UPON ME AND GO AND PRAY TO ME AND I WILL LISTEN TO YOU. – Jeremiah 29 vs. 11 to 12

Verses 1-2: 2 Commands, 3 Blessings.

Commands:

Forget not God’s Word (precept/statute). Read John 15:7.
Keep (preserve) my Commandments.

Blessings:

Blessing 1: Length of Days (life worth living).

Blessing 2: Long Life.

Blessing 3: Peace (shalom/harmony/tranquility/prosperity).

Verses 3-4: 3 Commands, 2 Blessings.

Commands:

Let not mercy and truth leave you (loving kindness).
Bind (tie) around your neck (Proverbs 6:21, Proverbs 7:1-3). The Jewish culture of the day was such that they went to their morning prayer, the Jewish people would put these commands and blessings in a pouch and tie them around their neck. Lesson to be learned: Where our neck and head go we go.
Write them on your heart and only the Holy Spirit can do this (Colossians 3:1-17).

Blessings :

Find favor with God.
Good understanding with God and Man.

Verses 5 to 6: 3 Commands, 1 Blessing

Command s:

1. Trust in the Lord (confide/secure). Read Psalm 56 – Prayer of Trust.

2. Lean (rest) not on yourself.

3. In all your ways – not just some of your ways – acknowledge God (which means to declare/be diligent).

Blessing : He will direct (to make right/prosperous/straight) your paths.

Verses 7 to 8: 3 Commands, 2 Blessings.

Commands :

Do not be wise (skillful or artful) in your own eyes.
Fear the Lord (to revere or to reverence).
Depart from evil (to put away or turn away).

Blessings :

1. Health to your navel (the navel is a symbol of nourishment. Mother to the unborn child).

2. Marrow to your bones (marrow keeps the bones moist and contains stem cells that carry oxygen to your body).

Verses 9-10: 2 Commands, 2 Blessings.

Commands :

1. Honour the Lord with your substance (this is a reference to material giving).

2. First fruits (the first part of any increase).

Blessings :

1. Your barns will be full (keep in mind that agriculture was the main industry of Solomon’s day).

2. Production of wine will increase (in the days of Solomon wine was a symbol of blessing and intimate love (Song of Solomon 1: 2: “But love is better than wine.”). Wine is used both in the positive and negative context.

Verses 11 to 12: 2 Commands, 1 Blessing.

Commands :

Despise not God’s chastening (do not shrink from God’s instruction or discipline because He loves you (Job 5:17, Hebrews 12: 56)).
Do not become weary (anxious or distressed) of His correction (reasoning, rebuke).

Blessing: Correction from the Lord is a blessing because, again, He loves us as parents love their children.

Verses 13 to 18: Seek true happiness because this is the way God intended us to live (Proverbs 8:35, Proverbs 16:20, 3rd John verse 2).

Happy is the man or woman who:

Finds wisdom
Finds understanding.
Why? Wisdom and understand are better than:
Silver
Rubies
Gold
Any other thing
Six blessings of wisdom and understanding.
Length of days
Riches and honour
Pleasantness
Peace
Tree of Life (Eternal Life)
Happiness

Verses 19-21: Wisdom is the key to life when it is anchored in the Lord.

King Solomon requested wisdom more than anything else and God gave it to Him (1st Kings 3:1-15). The Lord gives us the same opportunity with the same question – ask for wisdom (James 1:5-8).

Verses 21-24: 2 Commands, 6 Blessings of Security 7

Commands:

Do not depart from sound wisdom.
Keep discretion (intent and a plan) (Proverbs 1:4, Proverbs 2:11, Proverbs 5:2).

Blessings :

Life unto your soul.
Grace to your neck.
Walk in safety.
Shall not stumble.
Not afraid to lie down.
Sleep will be sweet.

Verses 25-26: 2 Commands, 2 Blessings.

Commands :

Do not be fearful.
Do not worry (worry is a sin – trusting God is the antidote to fear and worry (Matthew 6:24-34)).

Blessings :

The Lord is our confidence (hope).
The Lord will keep you (to watch over you).

Verses 27-35: 6 Commands, 4 Blessings. 8

Commands :

Do not withhold from others if you can pay now.
Do not say no to a neighbour if you can help.
Do not contrive anything evil against anyone.
Do not strive (grapple or defend against another person without cause Romans 12:18).
Do not be envious (jealous) of others.

Amplified Bible: “The person who has departed from the Lord is the detestable to the Lord, because God cannot tolerate sin, but His secret council is with those who follow Him. But remember. God is a God of love and is always willing to forgive and will forgive our sins and cast them away as far as the East is from the West and never to be remembered again."

Read Psalm 25. A prayer for guidance and protection. Key verse 14. 4
Blessings :

God blesses the home of the just.
God gives grace to the lowly (James 4:6, 1st Peter 5:5).
The wise shall inherit glory.
His secrets are with the righteous.

These are an incredible group of commands and blessings that are given to us especially when we understand THAT OUR BODIES ARE THE TEMPLE OF THE LIVING GOD.

Download notes for this episode (PDF): CLICK HERE

Last episode: CLICK HERE

We are created to be the Temple of the Living God (Ep. 8)

Mon, 21 Sep 2020 15:49:32 GMT

We are created to be the Temple of the Living God (Ep. 8)

INTRODUCTION

GOD DID NOT PROMISE DAYS WITHOUT PAIN.

GOD DID NOT PROMISE LAUGHTER WITHOUT SORROW.

GOD DID NOT PROMISE SUN WITHOUT RAIN.

HERE IS THE GOOD NEWS...

GOD DID PROMISE STRENGTH FOR THE DAY,

COMFORT FOR YOUR TEARS,

AND LIGHT FOR YOUR WAY.

If God brings you to it, He will bring you through it.

Now the Big News:

GOD HAS PROMISED THAT WE CAN BECOME HIS TEMPLE.

THIS IS AN OVERWHELMING AND AWESOME THOUGHT.

Episode 8 - We are created to be the Temple of the Living God

AMAZING TRUTH: YOUR BODY IS THE TEMPLE OF GOD (1ST Corinthians 3:17-18, 1st Corinthians 6:17-20).

THE HISTORY OF THE TEMPLE

When King Solomon finished the first Temple, which took him seven years to build at a cost of about 3 hundred million dollars, the Temple was eleven floors high, 1 million square feet, could house up to ten thousand people and was divided into three parts:

1. The Great or Outer Court. This is where the general public could gather for worship.

2. The Holy Place. This is where the priest would offer sacrifices for sin on a daily basis.

3. The Holies of Holies. This is the place where the Ark of the Covenant was kept. The Ark of the Covenant contained:

1) Aaron (the first High Priest). His rod that budded.

2) The Golden Pot of Manna.

3) The 10 Commandments (Hebrews 9:4).

The High Priest would enter the Holies of Holies for the atonement for sin once per year. This was known as the day of atonement or Yom Kippur (the word atonement is mentioned about 130 times in the Old Testament, and it means (substitute/forgiveness/to appease/to condone/to reconcile).

Two goats were brought to the High Priest on the day of Yom Kippur. The blood of the goat that was sacrificed would be sprinkled seven times on the Mercy Seat which was the top of the Ark of the Covenant.

The blood was then sprinkled seven times on the head of the live goat. This goat became known as the scapegoat (the number ‘seven’ in the Bible is mentioned hundreds of times and is the number of completion).

The Holies of Holies was a perfect cube that was 30 feet long, 30 feet wide, 30 feet high, and was overlaid with gold (1st King 6:19-20).

The New Jerusalem (Revelations 21) is also a perfect cube of 1400 miles or 2200 kilometres which equals 2 million square miles. Interestingly enough, it is also paved with gold.

NOW THE MIRACLE OF YOU AND ME

We also are made up of three parts:

1. Body/Physical

2. Soul/Emotional

3. Spirit/Spiritual (1st Thessalonians 5:23)

Unlike Solomon’s Temple, which was made of brick and mortar, God formed each of us and knew us in our mother’s womb (Jeremiah 1:5). We are also told that we are fearfully and wonderfully made (Psalm 139:14). HERE IS AN AMAZING BIBLICAL TRUTH. The word atonement in the New Testament is mentioned only once and it means restoration to a Divine Favor (Romans 5:11).

WHEN DID THIS HUGE TRANSFORMATION TAKE PLACE?

It happened at the very moment when Jesus Christ died on the cross for our sins. Jesus Christ shed his blood seven ways.

At this moment the veil of the Temple which protected the Holies of Holies was split in two from the top to the bottom. At this moment of transformation there was a massive earthquake so powerful that many graves were opened, and many dead people arose (Matthew 27:50-54). This was no accidental event. Consider this: It is estimated that the veil of the Temple was as high as 30 feet and Jewish custom says that if it was wet it would take 300 men just to pull it and even two horses could not pull it.

The significance of this incredible event again in the Old Testament you would need a High Priest and then only once per year could enter the Holies of Holies.

Because you and I are now the Temple, the veil has been ripped from top to bottom which now allows us 7/24 access to our High Priest which is Jesus Christ (Hebrews 4:14-16).

If this doesn’t convince you who you are in the Lord, consider this:

The DNA in one cell in the human body holds the equivalent of roughly 800 books of information. A typical human body has about - hundred trillion cells, each of which has a DNA strand that could be uncoiled to about three metres in length. Thus, if the DNA in one adult human were strung together it would stretch from Earth to the Sun and back about 70 times.

– Josh MacDowell

AS THE TEMPLE OF THE LIVING GOD, IT IS VERY IMPORTANT THAT WE UNDERSTAND HOW IMPORTANT WE ARE TO THE LORD

Jesus Christ Himself prophesied that the brick and mortar Temple would be destroyed, and it was in 70 AD (Mark 13:1-2).

King Solomon, the wisest, richest man that ever lived, gives us some incredible, amazing principles on how we should live today as the TEMPLE OF GOD (Proverbs 3). Proverbs 3 contains:

25 COMMANDS
23 BLESSINGS
10 VALUES OF HAPPINESS
WORDS OF WISDOM AND KNOWLEDGE FROM GOD

The context is VERY IMPORTANT.

When Solomon wrote these words, which were directed by the Holy Spirit, the Jewish men of the day would place the Words of God in a pouch which would then be tied around their neck as they went to their daily prayer. Lesson learned. In other words, where their neck went God went. THINK ABOUT THIS: Why would the Jewish men do this? Almighty God calls His Holy Word the apple of His eye. Apple means pupil. The pupil of the eye is what lets the light in.

"MY BODY IS A TEMPLE AND MY TEMPLE NEEDS REDECORATING" - JOAN RIVERS

HERE IS THE BOTTOM LINE – "YOUR BODY IS A TEMPLE AND YOU HAVE TO TREAT IT THIS WAY BECAUSE THAT IS HOW GOD HAS DESIGNED YOU." - Ray Lewis

Download notes for this episode (PDF): CLICK HERE

Last episode: CLICK HERE

The Most Inspiring Speech: The Wisdom of a Third Grade Dropout Will Change Your Life | Rick Rigsby

rodjanz07@gmail.com (Rod Janz) — Fri, 19 Jun 2020 19:16:06 GMT

The Most Inspiring Speech: The Wisdom of a Third Grade Dropout Will Change Your Life | Rick Rigsby

Make an Impact: Rick Rigsby delivers a powerful speech on how his father's teachings have guided him through the most troubling times of his life. Are you Inspired? Order Dr. Rick Rigsby's book, "Lessons from a third grade dropout" here: http://amzn.to/2fXHZV1

Prayer During Times of Distress (Ep. 7)

Fri, 19 Jun 2020 18:49:53 GMT

Prayer During Times of Distress (Ep. 7)

Week 7 - Prayer During Times of Distress

“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation by prayer and petition with thanksgiving present your requests to God.” Philippians 4:7

“Pray without ceasing – fervent, urgent prayer.” 1st Thessalonians 5:17

PRINCIPLES OF PRAYER

It is very important that we understand the principles in scripture and the preparation that we must do before God can even hear our prayers.

In most of our lives we put a lot of time in to preparing for:

1. A wedding

2. A funeral

3. A social gathering

4. A vacation

5. A romantic dinner

6. Christmas celebration

7. Birthday or anniversary celebration

Our best example is Jesus Christ who is now preparing a place for us in heaven (John 14:2-3).

Preparation is also vital for communion (1st. Corinthians 11: 17-34).

KEY PRINCIPLES OF ANY EFFECTIVE PRAYER LIFE

I have never really been a prayer warrior like my beautiful wife Ruth. Partly because of being successful in the business world.

“Many Christians never prove God’s trustworthiness. Rather, they trust their bank accounts to dictate what they will do for the Lord.” – Loren Cunningham

This was certainly Barry Borthistle who has always loved the Lord dearly, but struggled with words like:

1. Wait

2. Trust

3. Abide

4. Rest

5. Faith

6. Patience

7. Prayers

This is a summary of 14 Principles that I have Learned about Prayer:

1. Repentance of sin (1st John 1:5-10). If I regard iniquity in my heart, the Lord will not hear me (Psalms 66:18).

2. Forgive your way to freedom. “Your health depends on forgiveness.” – Dr. Karen Swartz, MD. Jesus Christ has an even stronger opinion (Matthew 6:14-15).

3. Psalms 37:1-11: Commands on how to live and blessings if we obey.

4. For husbands only. Dwell with your wife with understanding and honour because if you do not, your prayers will be hindered (cut off). Remember, your wife was created to be your helpmate which means divine aid (Genesis 2:18).

5. Remember to please the Holy Spirit (Ephesians 4:28-32) and do not grieve the Holy Spirit because you are the Temple of the Holy Spirit (1st. Corinthians 3:16-17, 1st Corinthians 6:18-20). Because the Holy Spirit lives in you, He intercedes for us directly to Jesus Christ who then intercedes directly to God the Father (Romans 8:26,27,34, Hebrews 7:25-28).

6. You have not because you ask not, or you ask for the wrong reason (James 4:2-3).

7. Jesus Himself asks us to keep on asking, keep on seeking and keep on knocking (Matthew 7:7-8). All three words are present imperatives which means a continuous or repeated action.

8. John 15:7 says if (our choice) you abide (dwell) and my words (rhema) abide in you, ask what you will, and it shall be done.

9. The vital importance of praying when trials come (James 1:2-8) (see teaching on podcast #6).

10. Faith is probably the hardest part of the Christian life. But without faith it is impossible (impotent) to please God. But, if you do, He rewards you (Hebrews 11:6).

11. Always address your prayers directly to the Father and always close your prayers asking in the name of Jesus Christ (Matthew 6:6-15).

12. Close your prayer by applying the blood of Jesus Christ to every situation. Without a doubt the blood of Jesus Christ is the most precious and powerful gift we have – Charles Spurgeon and David Wilkinson

13. Consider taking communion as often as possible. There is healing in communion (New Testament) just as in Passover in the Old Testament. Communion instructions - 1st Corinthians 11: 27-31

14. Always close your prayer time with worship/praise, just as Miriam did after the Red Sea crossing as she led about 2.5 million people in praise, worship and dancing (Exodus 15:19-21).

NOTHING IS IMPOSSIBLE WHEN GOD IS ON YOUR SIDE. Help is found in God’s word:

1. Hope – Psalms 42:5

2. Waiting – Psalms 27:14

3. Anxiety – 1st Peter 5:7

4. Courage – Deuteronomy 31:6

5. Peace – John 14:27

6. Helplessness – Psalms 34:17

7. Anger – Ephesians 4:26-27

8. Forgiveness – 1st John 1: 5-10

9. Hurt – Psalms 147: 3

10. Weariness – Matthew 7:28

11. Strength – Philippians 4:13

12. Fear – Joshua 1:9

THE VITAL IMPORTANCE OF FAITH

“A little faith will bring your soul to heaven, a great faith will bring heaven to your soul.” – Charles Spurgeon

“Have your heart right with Christ and He will visit you often.” – Charles Spurgeon

HOW TO OBTAIN FAITH

1. Faith is a gift given at your time of conversion as is Grace (Romans 12:3). We are given a measure, which is a limited portion. It can be as small as a mustard seed (Matt 17:20).

2. How important is faith to God? Without faith it is impossible (impotent) to even please God (Hebrews 11:6)

3. How does our faith increase? We must exercise our faith. Read the story of the centurion’s servant in Matthew 8:5-13.

4. Like Job, Habakkuk not only speaks about trouble, he lived through it. He was a spokesman for God. The Holy Spirit instructed him to write about the trials he experienced as a vision in Habakkuk 2:1-4. Included in the vision is the word salvation in Habakkuk 3:18. Salvation is the Hebrew word from which the name of Jesus is derived in Matthew 1:23 – EMMANUEL (Emmanuel means God with us, a name of Jesus Christ. It’s prophesied in Isaiah 7:14 and Isaiah 8:8. The Lord answered Habakkuk’s prayer as He answers us (Habakkuk 2:1-4)

5. More on the vital importance of faith. The book of Habakkuk is the most well preserved of the Old Testament dead sea scrolls. Habakkuk 2:1-4 is only one of two verses in the Old Testament that actually uses the word faith. The other one is in Deuteronomy 32:20. However, in the New Testament, many Old Testament figures like Noah/Abraham/Sarah are mentioned as people of faith Hebrews 11.

Now, this is really important. Habakkuk 2:4 – The just shall live by faith – is quoted 3 times in the New Testament (Romans 1:17, Galatians 3:11, Hebrews 10:37-39).

WHAT IS FAITH?

“Now, faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things unseen.” Hebrews 11:1

“Ask God for wisdom in faith.” – James 1:5-6

Learning to wait on the Lord

We will not survive spiritually if we do not learn to wait (Psalms 130:5-6).

WAIT WITH PATIENCE. “But those who wait on the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles, they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.” – Isaiah 40:31

WAIT IN PRAYER. “Out of the depths, I have cried to you Lord. Lord hear my voice.” Psalms 130: 1-2

WAIT ON PURPOSE. My soul waits silently for God, alone. He is my rock and my salvation. He is my defense; I will not be shaken.” Psalm 62:5-6

Download notes for this episode (PDF): CLICK HERE

Last episode: CLICK HERE

How Then Shall We Live Today? (Ep. 6)

Thu, 11 Jun 2020 19:58:54 GMT

How Then Shall We Live Today? (Ep. 6)

Week 6 - HOW THEN SHALL WE LIVE TODAY?

2020 has been declared the year of the Bible. This is a move supported by Pope Francis, Ravi Zacharias, Franklin Graham and over 20,000 churches in over 100 countries.

The Bible is by far the world’s bestseller. Over four billion copies have been sold, and it continues to be the Number 1 Bestseller with approximately 100 MILLION sold ever year (the New Yorker). The Bible will change your life if you read it and obey it (1st Peter 1:23).

WHY DOES GOD ALLOW BAD THINGS TO HAPPEN TO GOOD PEOPLE?

As hard as it is to acknowledge, we must remember that there are no good people in the absolute sense of the word. All of us are tainted by and infected with sin (Eccl. 7:20, Romans 3:23, 1st John 1:8). As Jesus said, no one is good except God alone. All of us feel the effects of sin in one way or another. Sometimes it is our own personal sin, and other times it is the sin of others. We live in a fallen world, and we expect the effects of the fall. One of those effects is injustice and seemingly senseless suffering.

The Bible Clearly Identifies This Question and Gives Answers in 3 Ways:

1. THE PROBLEM

2. THE PROMISE

3. THE PROVISION

I call this God’s University of Adversity. If we obey this teaching, we can graduate with a PHD.

THE PROBLEM

Why do we have problems and where do they come from?

1. Problems, for mankind, began with the disobedience of Adam and Eve in the garden and it is called SIN (Genesis 2).

2. God gave Adam and Eve five commands to follow:

1) Be Fruitful (Genesis 1:28)

2) Multiply (Genesis 1:28)

3) Replenish (Genesis 1:28)

4) Exercise a Dominion (Genesis 1:28, Genesis 2:15)

5) Refrain from eating the fruit from the Tree of Good and Evil (Genesis 2:17)

3. When Adam and Eve sinned, because God is a HOLY SOVEREIGN OMNIPRESENT GOD - which means He, as the Creator, has the right to do anything – He chooses because He cannot tolerate sin.

4. The sin of Adam and Eve introduced three major types of disobedience and mankind is involved in these sins today:

1) Lust of the flesh

2) Lust of the eyes

3) Pride of life

- Genesis 3:6, 1st John 2:15-17

Quotes on Trials and Tribulations

1. “Trials teach us who we are. They dig up the soil and let us see what we are made of” – Charles Spurgeon

2. “True faith is not going to get you out of a hard place, but to change your heart out of a hard place” – David Wilkinson

3. “The Bible was not given for our information but for our transformation” – Dwight L. Moody

4. “God does not expect the impossible from us. God wants us to expect the impossible from Him” – Dwight L. Moody

5. “We all face storms in life. Some are more difficult than others, but we all go through trials and tribulations. That is why God gives us the gift of faith” – Joyce Meyer

THE PROMISE

The Vital Importance of a Biblical Worldview

1. “A worldview is the most important thing that we know about a man or a woman” – Richard Weaver

2. “A Biblical worldview approach to life and learning has never been more needed than in today’s Pluralistic/Postmodern culture. Christians today face hostility to their faith from one side, and apathy from anything of importance on the other side. Sadly, the casualties are high” – Chuck Edwards

3. Part of God’s promise is that in the world today we will have trials and tribulations (John 16:33, 2nd Timothy 3:12, John 15:20, Psalms 34:17-19).

Ravi Zacharias quote: “The Lord will test the righteous. The greater the test, the greater the calling of God on your life.”

THE PROVISION

Very important. The only way a person can experience the provision of God is to have a personal relationship with God. This opportunity is simply to accept Jesus Christ as your personal Saviour for the forgiveness of sins and life everlasting (John 3:14-21).

GOD’S WAY OF PROVISION FOR HANDLING A PROBLEM

James 1:2-8 – This is a life-changing provision experience. Trust me, I know.

Verse 2: COUNT (to lead the way/to have rule over/governor/to be chief).

FALL INTO (to fall into something that surrounds you, to light upon you). Like the good Samaritan, you may not even have caused it.

DIVERS (various in character).

TEMPTATIONS (adversity, trials with a beneficial purpose and effect). The Lord knows how to deliver the godly out of trials and temptation (2nd Peter 2:7-9).

Verse 3: KNOWING THIS (to understand/to realize).

THE TRYING OF YOURSELF (trying means to test).

What is faith? “Faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen (Hebrews 11:1).” How important is faith? Without faith it is impossible (impotent) to please God but He often rewards those who diligently seek Him (Hebrews 11:6). Faith is a gift that God gives us, but we have to use it to grow (Romans 12:3).

PATIENCE (abiding under). Patience perfects the Christian character so let patience have her perfect work.

Verse 4: WORKS – Faith without works is dead.

WANTING NOTHING. Jesus promised in Matthew 6:24-34 where He tells us to put God’s Kingdom first and all will be given to us.

Verse 5: WISDOM. God asked King Solomon what he wanted, and Solomon’s answer was 1st Kings 3:3-15: Give your servant an understanding mind.

God asks us the same question with a promise:

1. We are to ask (which means call up or to do).

2. Giveth. Giveth is a present participle meaning continual or repetitive action with no indication of timing. In other words, it is up to God.

3. Liberally with movement. Unconditional supply.

Verse 6: FAITH. If – our choice – we do not ask in faith, we are like a wave in the sea. But if we ask in faith read John 15:7.

Verse 7: If we do not follow the principles of verses 2-6, we will receive nothing from the Lord. Why?

Verse 8: Because we are double-minded (two spirited), vacillating in our original purpose, and we are unstable (restless in our ways) (James 4: 1-10).

Here is a checklist of qualities in your life that will assist you in assessing your action in obeying and trusting in the Lord, especially during trials:

Positive Negative

1. Courage 1. Pride

2. Boldness 2. Arrogance

3. Patience 3. Self-centeredness

4. Steadfastness 4. Self-righteousness

5. Perseverance 5. Temper

6. Humility 6. Controlling Spirit

7. Self-control 7. Know-it-all

8. A caring heart 8. Discouragement

9. Compassion for others 9. Gossip

10. Increased faith 10. Blaming others/not forgiving

Positive...

When you are hanging on by a thread, make sure it is the hem of His garment.

Download notes for this episode (PDF): CLICK HERE

Last episode: CLICK HERE

What Did Jesus Christ Have to Say About Pestilence? (Ep. 5)

Fri, 05 Jun 2020 18:46:59 GMT

What Did Jesus Christ Have to Say About Pestilence? (Ep. 5)

Solomon's Porch Week 5

What Did Jesus Christ Have to Say About Pestilence?

1. Jesus Himself refers to a form of pestilence, which is a deadly infectious disease, only twice Matthew 24:7 - For nation shall rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom: and there shall be famines, and pestilences, and earthquakes, in divers places.

Luke 21:11 - And great earthquakes shall be in divers places, and famines, and pestilences; and fearful sights and great signs shall there be from heaven.

Matthew 24: These are the words of Jesus Himself as He details 24 signs of the End Times. We will look at 4 signs only:

1) Matthew 24:6 Wars and rumors of wars. According to Wikipedia, there are 17 conflicts in our world today of major proportions.

2) Matthew 24:7 Famines. Today, the world stands on the brink of unprecedented famine - Oxfam International.

3) Matthew 24:7 Earthquakes. The national Earthquake Society locates approximately 20,000 quakes per year. We, of course, only hear of the major ones.

4) Matthew 24:7 Pestilence. The word pestilence is mentioned 46 times in the Old Testament, two times in the New Testament.

The word “plague” is used over 100 times in the Old Testament, and 14 times in the New Testament. The basic meaning of the word plague is very similar to the meaning of pestilence. The word plague in the Old Testament means infliction/stricken/a sure wound. In the New Testament, it means calamity/wound.

“In the Bible, God will repeatedly shake individuals and nations with pestilence or plague so that they will wake up from their spiritual slumber” – Joel Rosenberg

Now back to Matthew 24:6-8. Jesus said even though we’re experiencing these signs not to be troubled (which means “do not be frightened”). Why does He say this? Because these things must come to pass, but the end is not yet (which means the final result – to be set out at a definite point). Jesus also says that this is the beginning which means commencement of sorrows (the word sorrows means birth pains). Only Father God knows the exact time of the end (Matthew 24:36-37). But we are also told in Matthew 24:37-44 that the end will come when we are living in days like Noah which is certainly today.

The Book of Revelations reveals that there are 21 Plagues Coming.

These are known as:

1. Seven Seals

2. Seven Trumpets

3. Seven Bowls

A look at the last 7 Plagues in Revelations 16. These 7 plagues were announced by 7 angels as the final 7 judgments that completes the wrath of God upon a sinful world.

A Brief Look at the 7 Last Plagues:

1. Revelations 16:2 – Open, painful sores, just like what happened with Pharaoh and Moses (Exodus 9:8-12).

2. Revelations 16:3 – The Sea will become blood and all life in the sea will die, again like Pharaoh and Moses (Exodus 7:14-25).

3. Revelations 16:4-7 – Fresh water will be turned to blood, again like Pharaoh and Moses (Exodus 7:24-25).

4. Revelations 16:8-9 – The sun will become so hot it will scorch mankind like fire and still mankind will not repent (Suntan lotion will not help here).

5. Revelations 16:10-11 – Total darkness, again like Pharaoh and Moses (Exodus 10:21-29).

6. Revelations 16:12-16 – The river Euphrates will dry up. This river is 1,740 miles or 2,800 kilometres long and it flows from Turkey to Syria to the Persian Gulf. When this river dries up, it will permit the travel for the battle of Armageddon. This is in the area of Megiddo which is 18 miles southeast of the modern city of Haifa.

7. Revelations 16:17-21 – A great earthquake and hailstorm. This earthquake is prophesied in Zechariah 14 and no doubt will be the most powerful earthquake the world has ever seen. The hailstorms will be approximately 100 pounds each.

The Bible gives major signs of end times by giving 49 New Testament verses detailing end times:

1. Words of Jesus himself in Matthew 24.

2. Apostle Paul gives 18 signs of the end times in 2nd Timothy 3:1-5 where he says perilous (stressful) times will come.

3. Very important: The Lord could not return until Israel was restored as a nation. This event took place in one day on may 14th 1948 (Isaiah 66:7-8).

Some Facts to Consider

1. Amazon’s bible documentary revealed that geologists have discovered a geometric fault line running east to west right through the Mount of Olives.

Acts 1: The Mount of Olives is where Jesus ascended to Heaven. Zechariah 14 prophesied that when He returns His feet will touch the Mount of Olives and it will split in two.

Conclusion

God loves all of us but cannot tolerate sin, and I believe He is returning soon (1st Corinthians 15:51-58, 1st Thessalonians 4:13-18). Scripture says the return of Christ is a mystery (secret) to the world. By the way, there are 14 mysteries or secrets in the New Testament.

I believe that God is a God of love, mercy and compassion and is most anxious for anyone to come to Him.

Consider this: Dr. Mike Evans, an author and founder of the Jerusalem prayer team, said that David Wilkinson shared a prophecy with him during a meeting in 1986.

David Wilkinson’s prophecy:

“I see a plague coming on the world, and the bars, churches and government will be shut down. The plague will hit New York City and shake it like it has never been shaken. The plague is going to force prayer-less believers into radical prayer and into their bibles, and repentance will be the cry from the man of God in the pulpit. Out of this will come a third GREAT Awakening that will sweep America and the world.

Download notes for this episode (PDF): CLICK HERE

Last episode: CLICK HERE

God Reveals to Us How We Are to React to a Pandemic (Ep. 4)

Wed, 27 May 2020 22:06:53 GMT

God Reveals to Us How We Are to React to a Pandemic (Ep. 4)

Week 4

This is Amazing

God Reveals to Us How We Are to React to a Pandemic

Solomon’s Temple Prayer – 2nd Chronicles 6:12-42

Verses 1 to 3 – God promises Solomon a place to worship.

Verses 4-11 – Solomon blessed the people.

What is the power of the spiritual blessing? A Biblical blessing is a statement which involves the blessing of God upon the life of another person (Numbers 6: 24-26).

Solomon’s Temple Prayer

Solomon the King knelt down with arms lifted up to heaven in front of all his people. It is important to remember that when God asked Solomon what he wanted, Solomon’s response: He asked for wisdom (1st Kings 3:3-13). God has extended the same offer to us (James 1: 5-6).

Solomon prayed for 12 things:

1. God’s faithfulness – verses 14-16

2. God’s continuous faithfulness – verses 16-17

3. God’s omnipresence – verses 18

4. Plea for answer to prayer – verses 19-21

5. Plea for just judgement – verses 22-23

6. Plea for forgiveness of sin – verses 24-25

7. Forgiveness and rain from heaven – verses 26-27

8. Plea for God’s help in a time of pestilence/war and sickness – verses 28-31

9. Blessings on Gentiles who are seeking God – verses 22-23

10. Plea for God’s help in war even if no sin had been committed – verses 34-35.

11. Plea for help in war when sin had been committed – verses 36-39

12. Plea for God’s continued presence and blessing – verses 40-42

2nd Corinthians 7:1-11 – Result of Solomon’s prayers: Divine acceptance and God’s Glory entered the Temple.

2nd Chronicles 7:12-22

God appeared to Solomon a second time, 20 years after the dedication of the Temple (2nd Chronicles 8:1).

2nd Chronicles 7:13-15 - God obviously knew that the people would not be obedient after Solomon’s dedication prayer. This is God speaking to us today: In verse 13, God says “if” three times, which means it is His choice, and there are 1,522 instances of the word “if” in the Bible.

1. “If I stop the rain…”

2. “If I command locust to devour the land…”

3. If I send pestilence…”

Today, there are billions of locusts destroying the food supply in parts of Africa and East Asia. Pestilence is a contagious, infectious disease greatly affecting us today with COVID-19.

Verse 14 – To me, this is one of the most incredible verses in the Bible because it is directed to us today. “If [our choice] my people who are called by name will do four things…”

1. Humble themselves which means to bend the knee. It is used in 2nd Chronicles 34:27. Spurgeon said voluntary humbleness is what God is looking for (that’s what Solomon did).

2. Pray. Pray means to make supplication, to ask for. There are at least 12 preparation steps for prayer in order for God to even hear our prayer. Details to follow. Two of the most important are repentance (1st John 1:5-10. 5 “ifs” in that chapter) and forgiveness of others (Matthew 6:14-15).

3. Seek my face. Seek me to search out, to worship or to request (Psalm 80: 7,19).

4. Turn from your wicked ways. Turn means return to the starting point or to relinquish. Solomon used the word turn three times in his prayer (2nd Chronicles 6:26,37,42).

If We Do These 4 Things Here is God’s Promise to Us

1. I will hear you from Heaven. Hear means attention.

2. I will forgive your sin as far as the East is from the West (Psalm 23:12).

3. Heal our land which means to mend like a physician, to repair thoroughly, DIVINE INTERVENTION.

Verse 15 – If we obey the 4 points in verse 14, God then says His eyes (the foundation or His presence) and His ears (radiance) will attend to our prayers.

God’s answer to Solomon in his prayers (2nd Chronicles 6: 20,40). Praise the Lord, He is Risen.

THIS IS A TIME FOR SPIRITUAL FITNESS, PRAYER, THE POWER OF HOPE

Hope for believers is not an illusion. It is the assurance that good things are going to happen based upon the promises in God’s Word. IF YOUR MARRIAGE IS FAILING, IF YOUR BUSIINESS OR FINANCES ARE SINKING, IF YOUR CHILDREN ARE IN TROUBLE, IF YOUR HEALTH IS AT RISK, THERE IS HOPE IN THE LIVING GOD.

TAKE TIME TO PREPARE FOR PRAYER

Jesus is taking time today to prepare a place for us John 14:1-3.

Preparation for prayer is very important so that God will hear our prayers.

Here are 7 prayer principles:

1. Repent of all known sin 1st John 1:5-10 (there are 5 ifs here - our choice).

2. God cannot hear us if we do not repent of sin Psalms 66:18-20.

3. Forgive others otherwise God cannot forgive us Matthew 7:14-15.

4. Do not worry. Worry is a sin Matthew 6: 24-34.

5. Like Solomon, ask God for wisdom James 1:5-6 but ask in faith Hebrews 11:6.

6. You have not because you ask not. Keep on asking Matthew 7:7-8, John 15:7.

7. Always address your prayer to the Father Matthew 6:9-15. Ask everything in the name of Jesus John 14 13-14. Remember the Holy Spirit intercedes for us (the meaning of intercession is to meet with, to make a petition Romans 8:25-28).

The Holy Spirit intercedes for us to Jesus Christ who then intercedes for us to the Father Romans 8:34, Hebrews 7:25.

Final thoughts

1. God dwells in the praises of His people Psalms 22:3.

2. David Wilkinson said, “the blood of Jesus Christ is the most powerful force in the universe.”

3. Apply the precious blood of Jesus to your prayer requests.

4. Consider taking communion as often as possible but, like prayer, take time to prepare 1st Corinthians 11:17-34.

1. Waiting for God is not laziness.

2. Waiting for God is not the abandonment of effort.

3. Waiting for God means activity under command.

4. Waiting means readiness for any new command that may come.

5. Waiting is the ability to do nothing till the command is given. If the eagles can do it so can we Isaiah 40:31.

God’s delays are not necessarily God’s denials. - G. Campbell Morgan.

Download notes for this episode (PDF): CLICK HERE

God Speaks to King Solomon (Ep. 3)

Wed, 27 May 2020 01:17:55 GMT

God Speaks to King Solomon (Ep. 3)

Week 3

This Will Be about God Speaking to King Solomon and How this Affects Us Today.

When I understood what and why God does what He does, I had peace.

The Solomon Story

After Solomon had completed the building of the Temple, which took 7 years (number for completion in the Bible, mentioned over 735 times. Read 1st Kings 4-9, 2nd Chronicles 3-7), God told Solomon that the Temple would permit His people not to live in thick darkness (2nd Chronicles 6:1-11).

The Temple was designed in 3 parts:

1. THE COURTYARD – FOR THE PUBLIC

2. THE HOLY PLACE – FOR THE PRIESTS ONLY

3. THE HOLLIES OF HOLLIES – FOR THE HIGH PRIEST ONLY

The High Priest could only enter the Holies of Holies once per year, which was called the Day of Atonement. In the Old Testament, the word atonement is mentioned 130 times and it means “to cover over.” Atonement in the New Testament is mentioned 1 time and it means “reconciliation/divine blessing.” Now this is really interesting for us today: The Bible refers to our bodies as the Temple of God (1st Corinthians 3:16-17, 1st Corinthians 6: 17-20).

As phenomenal as the Temple of Solomon was, which, according to research, would cost between a half to three fourths of a billion today, compared to your body as a temple you are far more important to God. NOW GET THIS! Like Solomon’s Temple, our bodies are made up of three parts:

Look at this: The Trinity

1. Spirit/Spiritual

2. Soul/Emotional

3. Body/Physical

1st Thessalonians 5:23

1. God the Father

2. God the Son

3. God the Holy Spirit

This is fantastic. In Solomon’s Temple, the High Priest could only talk to God once per year. Since Jesus Christ is now our High Priest, we can talk to Him 24/7 (Hebrews 4: 14-16).

Two more exciting facts:

1. Jesus said that Solomon’s Temple would be destroyed, to be replaced with our bodies which are now the Temple of God. Solomon’s Temple was destroyed in 70 A.D. (John 2:19-21).

2. However, although we do not have to make animal sacrifices, we are instructed to make New Testament sacrifices to please God. What are New Testament sacrifices? Hebrews 13: 15-16:

1). Praise and Thanksgiving to God, continually.

2) Communication, which comes from the Greek word Koinonia, which means sharing in common. The word Koinonia is translated into 7 different English words in the New Testament:

1. Fellowship is used 12 times

2. Communion is used 4 times

3. Communication is used 5 times

4. Distribution is used 2 times

5. Contribution is used 1 time

6. Partake is used 10 times

7. Partner is used 3 times

Key Point – You will notice that all 7 words are directed at our ability to serve other people and when your body, the Temple of God, is functioning properly in all three areas – physical/emotional/spiritual -you are in a position to serve others and please God Almighty.

Remember, we are all fearfully and wonderfully made (Psalm 139: 13-15) and that God says, “’for I know the plans I have for you,’ declares the Lord. ‘Plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.’” – Jeremiah 23:11.

Download notes for this episode (PDF): CLICK HERE

What Does the Bible Teach About Pestilence, Plagues and Global Pandemics? (Ep. 2)

Mon, 25 May 2020 22:29:13 GMT

What Does the Bible Teach About Pestilence, Plagues and Global Pandemics? (Ep. 2)

Week 2

Since COVID-19 began, Bible sales are up 44-60% according to Tindale Publishing. Alabaster Publishing experienced sales up to 143%. This is just like after 9/11 when sales went up 57%.

What Does the Bible Teach About Pestilence, Plagues and Global Pandemics?

“While not every use of the words pestilence and plagues, in the Bible refers to a terrible infectious disease, there are about 127 examples in the Bible. Throughout the Bible we see repeated examples of God using diseases and plagues to accomplish His divine and sovereign purposes. There are also biblical prophesies that warn us that God intends to use terrible, infectious diseases to accomplish His divine and sovereign purposes in the future.” – Joel C. Rosenberg, founder and chairman of the Joshua Fund.

Example: God wanted to free the children of Israel after 430 years of slavery. God gave Pharaoh an opportunity to let the children go, but he did not because he did not believe in God (Exodus 5:1-3).

You would think that Pharaoh would have listened to Moses because the Bible teaches that Moses is recorded to have been involved in 42 miracles in Exodus and Numbers. Pharaoh’s disobedience caused him and his army to end up as fish food in the Red Sea. There are recorded 54 acts of God in the story of the Ten Plagues and the Red Sea experience (Exodus 3-14).

God is always the God of the second chance. God cannot stomach sin and disobedience, but He responds always to confession and obedience. Here are four examples of how man’s obedience can change the mind of God:

Example 1. The Story of Noah

Man was so sinful that God was sorry He had made mankind. However, in His mercy He gave the Noah generation 120 years to repent, but only eight people obeyed (Genesis 6-7). Noah found grace, but we are given grace (Romans 12:3).

Example 2. Moses and the Tablets

When Moses descended from Mount Sinai with the Tablets of the Law, he found the people worshipping a golden calf. Moses was so angry he smashed the tablets. God was so angry that He wanted to destroy the people and uses the words “wax hot” which means anger/incensed/ to blaze up. But Moses pleaded for His people, and God changed His mind (Exodus 32:14).

Example 3: The Story of Jonah

God called Jonah to go to the sinful city of Nineveh (modern day Mosul and Iraq) which, at the time, was one of the most prosperous cities in the then-known world and the people were known for their terrible wickedness. God wanted Jonah to go and preach to the city, but Jonah refused (Jonah 1:1-3). You all know the story.

After Jonah finally obeyed, and Nineveh repented, including the King, God changed His mind and did not destroy the city (Jonah 3: 1-10).

Example 4: Moses and His Red Sea Experience

How Did Moses Handle His Red Sea Experience? Full Story: Exodus 3: 3-14

7 Key Points

1. After the 10 plagues, Moses was free to lead about 1.5 to 2 million people, after 430 years of slavery, to freedom. APPLICATION: Has the COVID-19 virus freed you up in any way?

2. Moses followed God’s preparation for the 7-day journey to the Red Sea by preparing unleavened bread (Exodus 12:15-16). APPLICATION: What new preparations are you going to make after COVID-19 is over?

3. After his freedom, where did Moses lead the people before crossing the Red Sea? Best research – near the modern-day Suez Canal, and God led them by night and day on their new journey (Exodus 15:17-22). APPLICATION: Are you letting God lead you on a new journey?

4. Before Moses crossed the Red Sea, he faced four new challenges:

The Red Sea was in front of him.

The Mountains were beside him.

Pharaoh’s army of 600 chariots were coming after him.

His people were complaining and were afraid (Exodus 14:13-15)

5. What was Moses’ response to the fear of all his people (Exodus 14:13-15)? Moses’ response:

1. Fear not.

2. Stand still and wait.

3. The Lord will fight for you.

4. You should hold your peace.

APPLICATION: Like number 4, how will you react to the next crisis in your life after COVID-19?

6. How big was the problem that Moses faced?

1. It has been calculated that at the point of crossing, the Red Sea was approximately 10-12 miles across.

2. Approximately 300 feet deep.

3. The path would have to be at least 3-5 miles wide.

4. The walls of water were probably iced up (Exodus 15:8). Do you consider your problems to be too big for God? Answer: “Lift up your rod and I will take care of your enemies.” A rod in the Old Testament means support for life (There are 15 miracles in the Old Testament where God did a miracle when man held up the rod).

APPLICATION: What is your rod today? May I suggest it is Hebrews 4:12. Be sure to read this verse.

7 Facts About the Word of God

1. It is alive.

2. It is powerful.

3. It is sharp.

4. It is piercing.

5. It divides, joins and narrows.

6. It discerns thoughts.

7. It discerns the intent of the heart.

Summary of an Article in the Wall Street Journal

Subject: Could COVID-19 Be the Beginning of the Third Great Awakening

“Sometimes the most important ingredient for spiritual renewal is a cataclysmic event like WWII 75 years ago.”

Historical Context: The first Great Awakening (that was not in the article) took place in 1730-1740 AD. It started with John Edwards’ famous sermon “Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God” and John Wesley and George Whitfield, plus the outpouring of the Holy Spirit.

The second Great Awakening (1790-1820 AD) included a great move of God particularly with the Methodists that came to an end when new denominations began to appear. According to the World Christian Encyclopedia, there are anywhere from 20-30,000 denominations.

Back to the Wall Street Journal article: Herbert Butterfield of Cambridge University, in choosing to make sense of WWII, decided to turn to the Bible for answers. He discovered that people turn to faith in a crisis with 75% of the population turning to faith. In 1954, the words “Under God” were added to the Pledge of Allegiance in the United States.

The COVID-19 virus has wrecked the global economy in a way that feels apocalyptic. Life has been deceptively easy until now. We float through a world of A/C, 9-11 calls, and pocket-sized computers. Joseph Conrad said, “we took control of our fate and God became irrelevant.”

Who Will Save Us Now That the Monster COVID-19 Has Broken Free?

The pandemic has humbled the country and opened up millions of eyes to this risky universe once more.

For societies founded on biblical traditions, pandemics need not make for the end. This is a call for repentance and revival. Great struggles can produce great clarity.

In the Old Testament, it would seem that men of spiritual resources may not only redeem catastrophe but turn the moment into a great creative opportunity.

Not in the Wall Street Journal, but here are 6 Examples:

1. Moses

2. Noah

3. Abraham

4. David

5. Elijah

6. Apostle Paul who wrote about 50% of the New Testament

Challenge from the Wall Street Journal: Will man, shaken by the reality of a risky universe, rediscover the GOD of the Universe who proclaimed Himself to be sovereign over every catastrophe?

Download notes for this episode (PDF): CLICK HERE

An Historical Look At Past Pandemics (Ep. 1)

Sun, 24 May 2020 22:16:10 GMT

Week 1: Historical Facts about Pestilence and Past Pandemics by Barry Borthistle

Week 1

There Have Been About 15 Major Pandemics in the Last 2,000 Years. All of Them Have Lasted Between 1 and 3 Years.

1. The main common theme seems to be social distancing.

2. It took between 80-150 years to repopulate after the Black Plague.

3. Italy was the hardest country hit in the Black Plague. However, the Renaissance followed – Hope.

4. The Black Plague returned three times between 1347 and 1629. In 1627, it came to Wittenberg, Germany, where Martin Luther had just posted his 95 theses. He and his pregnant wife were encouraged to leave Wittenberg, but he insisted on staying where he preached on Matthew 7, and even took in victims into his home. Later that year, he wrote the great hymn A MIGHTY FORTRESS IS OUR GOD. We still sing that song today.

The Spanish Flu came back a second time and was more deadly than the first time.

5. Starvation occurred both in the Black Plague and the Spanish Flu.

6. The Black Plague produced a very strong move of anti-Semitism much like today. The Scriptures of Genesis 12:1-3 and Galatians 2:12-14 and 28-29 are very relevant for today.

7. Needless to say, both the Black Plague and the Spanish Flu caused huge economic/religious upheaval. Churches/schools/social events were closed.

8. Economic Lessons from the Spanish Flu.

Like today, prosperity is impossible if people are not working/spending money, since 75% of GDP is directly related to consumer spending. The economist magazine Today recently stated that the world’s GDP will go down 50%.

9. 3 Lessons Learned from the Spanish Flu:

1) Public health response must focus on containment.

2) The importance of conveying information to the public is vital.

3) Preparation for the economic and human consequences of the virus is vital.

10. Jobs fell by 43% after the Spanish Flu.

11. The Roaring 20’s followed the Spanish Flu which, ten years later, led to the Great Depression. Why?

12. The Great Depression basically caused 3 Things:

1) Accumulated debt.

2) A struggling agricultural sector.

3) Excess of bank loans that could not be liquidated.

13. How did the removal of the Gold Standard beginning in 1933 and ending in 1971 affect us today?

14. Could this be the last pandemic? I will answer this in Week 4.

Download notes for this episode (PDF): CLICK HERE

TEACHING

How Then Shall We Live Today

How Then Shall We Live Today?

Why Does God Allow Bad Things to Happen to Good People?

The Bible Clearly Identifies This Question and Gives Answers in 3 Ways:

Quotes on Trials and Tribulations

The Promise

The Provision

How to Profit From Trials or How Shall We Then Live?

When you are hanging by a thread, make sure it is the hem of His garment.

The Good Samaritan Story (Luke 10:25-37)

Isaiah Chapter 53 The Atoning Suffering And Victory Of The Messiah

Many People Believe This is the Most Important Chapter of the Old Testament

ISAIAH – CHAPTER 53

VERSE 1

VERSE 2

30 fold sufferings of Jesus Christ for the Entire Human Race

Isaiah 53

A Lovely Comment From a Friend On This Study

Your Body is God's Temple Part 1

Your Body is God's Temple Part 1 - This is the least understood subject in the Bible - Pastor Kevin J Connor

Your Body is God's Temple Part 2

Hezekiah, Prayer and Rebuilding the Temple

Your Body is God's Temple Part 3

Your Body Was Created To Be God's Temple

Your Body is God's Temple Part 4

How Do You Live Your Life as God's Temple?

Your Body is God's Temple Part 5

GOD PROMISES TO HEAL OUR LAND

Your Body is God's Temple Part 6

Your Body is God's Temple Part 6

Your Body is God's Temple Part 7: Overcome Fear Through God's Wisdom

Part 7 of This Series: Overcome Fear Through God's Wisdom

Your Body is God's Temple Part 8: The Most Amazing Prayer You've Ever Heard: You Can Trust Him

Your Body is God's Temple Part 8 - The Most Amazing Prayer You've Ever Heard: "You Can Trust Him"

WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO BE THE APPLE OF GOD'S EYE?

God only called 2 things the Apple which means Pupil of his Eye. Do you know what they are ?

With the World in An Economic Mess, Are You Interested in a New Economic Model?

We have separated the spiritual and the secular too long

With the World in An Economic Mess,

Would You Be Interested in a New Economic Model?

1. Parable of the Laborers in the Vineyard

Popular Recognition:

The Mystery Secret of the Kingdom of Heaven

There Are 14 Mysteries In the Bible and This is the First Mentioned: Matthew 3.2 The Kingdom Of Heaven is Gods' Government on Earth.

Subjects and End Times

GOOD MORNING BEAUTIFUL BRIDE OF JESUS CHRIST

A Biblical Worldview: How God Tells Us to Approach Trials

This is Life-changing

Holy Ground: Living as God's Temple

Solomon's Porch Teaching

Your Body is God's Temple: A Podcast Series

CLICK BELOW TO LISTEN TO THIS 3-PART SERIES

Season 2 Episode 1: An Amazing Story that Applies to Every Person on Earth

But Many (If Not Most) Are Unaware

Season 2 Episode 3 Pickleball and the Presence of God: Stan Fryer at 98 Years Young

Solomons Porch Teaching Season 2 Episode 3

12 Biblical Signs of the End Times + Biblical Principles on How to Live Today

Faith Based Ministry is now the number 1 podcast in the world. Joe Rogan is now #2. - Wall Street Journal

﻿

Bible Sales have nearly doubled since covid. Why? Many people are very concerned about the future and they are living in fear. - Bloomberg

How Do We Live Today?

Barry's Story

Barry's Zoom Bible Studies

Prayer for Israel

How To Live Your Life As God's Temple

How To Live Your Life as God's Temple

Special Book Offer!

This article contains a FREE COPY of Dr. Brian Stiller's Book

A Word From Barry Borthistle:

This Article Can Change Your Life for Much the Better

Why I Wrote Three Books

Your Body is God's Temple

2. Spiritual Authority

3. 33 Things the Holy Spirit Wants to Do For You

WHAT IS FAITH?

Why is this information so important to you today?

THE VITAL NEED FOR A STUDY AND UNDERSTANDING OF THE HOLY SPIRIT

THE INTERCESSION OF JESUS CHRIST AND THE HOLY SPIRIT

KEYS FOUND IN THE BIBLE