Tag: Jesus Christ

WHAT’S IN A NAME, OR TITLE?

  • The translations are sometimes annoying (and not practical).
  • The original Greek/Hebrew is in red.

Our Lord Jesus Christ:   

Very poor translation. The original Greek reads:

Supreme Authority, Jesus (the) Anointed.

Anointed by whom?

Our spiritual Father (in the New Testament).

 

“The Spirit [wind; by resemblance breath] of the Lord [the Lord (used as a proper name of God only)] God is upon Me,

Because the Lord [(the) Self Existent] has anointed [rubbed (me) with oil] Me

To preach good tidings [to cheerfully announce (glad news)] to the poor [depressed (figuratively), in mind (gentle) or circumstances (needy)];

He has sent Me to heal the brokenhearted [burst] [heart],

To proclaim liberty to the captives,

And the opening of the prison to those who are bound;

Isa. 61:1

 

In the New Testament, God, the Father, is known to us as, “Our Father”.

In the Old Testament He is often referred to as, “(the) Self Existent”.

 

He is Self Existent, 

we (human beings) are existent dependent.

PRESSURE

  • Religious language can be annoying.
  • Original Greek in red.

TRIBULATION/PRESSURE

 

“These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world [orderly arrangement, that is, decoration; by implication the world] you will have tribulation [pressure (literally or figuratively)]; but be of good cheer, I have overcome [subdued (literally or figuratively)] the world [orderly arrangement, that is, decoration; by implication the world] .”

John 16:33

 

strengthening the souls [breaths, that is, (by implication) spirits] of the disciples [learners], exhorting [calling near, that is, inviting, invoking (by imploration, hortation or consolation)] them to continue in the faith, and saying, “We must through many tribulations [pressures (literally or figuratively)] enter the kingdom of God.”

Acts 14:22



Great is my boldness of speech toward you, great is my boasting on your behalf. I am filled with comfort. I am exceedingly joyful in all our tribulation [pressure (literally or figuratively)].

2 Cor. 7:4



you yourselves know that we are appointed to this. 4 For, in fact, we told you before when we were with you that we would suffer tribulation [crowding (literally or figuratively)], just as it happened, and you know.

1 Thes. 3:4

 

Yes, and all who desire to live godly [piously] in Christ Jesus will suffer persecution [pursuing (literally or figuratively)]. 

2 Tim. 3:12



choosing rather to suffer affliction with [maltreatment in company with, that is, (passively) endure persecution together] the people of God than to enjoy [to hold] [full enjoyment] the passing pleasures of sin, 

Heb. 11: 25



Resist him, steadfast in the faith, knowing that the same sufferings [something undergone, that is, hardship or pain] are experienced by your brotherhood in the world.

1 Peter 5:9



And I said to him, “Sir, you know.”

So he said to me, “These are the ones who come out of the great [big] tribulation [pressure (literally or figuratively)], and washed their robes and made them white in the blood of the Lamb.

Rev. 7:14

 

* * * * *

 

A few other scriptures on pressure:



And not only that, but we also glory [vaunt/boast] in tribulations [pressures], knowing that tribulation [pressure] produces perseverance; 4 and perseverance, character; and character, hope.

Rom.5:3



rejoicing in hope, patient in tribulation [pressure], continuing steadfastly in prayer;

Rom. 12:12



For our light [✓] affliction [pressure], which is but for a moment, is working for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory,

2 Cor. 4:17

* * * * * * *

 

 

PERSEVERE IN THE ORIGINAL, TRUE, DELEGATES’ INSTRUCTION [WITHOUT GETTING INTO PICKY DETAILS, WHAT WE CALL THE NEW TESTAMENT]:

And they continued steadfastly [earnest towards/persevered] in the apostles’ [delegates’] doctrine [instruction] and fellowship, in the breaking of bread, and in prayers.      Acts 2:42

Definition:   Delegate:   a person sent or authorized to represent others.

 

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JUST WHAT IS THIS “GOSPEL” THING?

THE GOOD MESSAGE

INTRODUCTION

Summary (In advance):   

  • The idea that complexity can be used to obscure or avoid the truth is a recurring theme in various fields, notably in economics. Economist John Kenneth Galbraith famously stated that complexity in the study of economics is often employed to disguise or evade simple truths, rather than to reveal them.
  • This seems to be true in theology.
  • The word, “gospel” has been used in almost all of the translations of the scriptures. There is only one translation, of which I’m aware, that uses the words, “good news”. “Gospel” is a word no longer used in our English speaking nations, and means nothing to the average person.
  • In this case, “religious language” obscures the truth.
  • Was it intentional? We’ll never know.
  • The original Greek was meant to be clear to the average reader.
  • The meaning throughout the New Testament is, “Good Message”.
  • None of the original people involved ever “preached the gospel”.
  • Jesus, for the most part, heralded the “Good Message”.
  • Herald (Def.):   As a noun:   official messenger bringing news, or a person or thing viewed as a sign that something is about to happen.

          As a verb:   a sign that (something) is about to happen.

  • The delegate (apostle) Paul , for the most part, announced the “Good Message”.
  • So, what is that “Good Message”?
  • That Jesus will return soon and set up a kingdom.
  • Yes, it will be a monarchy, and Jesus will be its king, and
  • He will rule with a “rod of iron”,  with strength.

She bore a male Child who was to rule all nations with a rod of iron. And her Child was caught up to God and His throne.

Rev. 12:5

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. He Himself treads the winepress of the fierceness and wrath of Almighty God. 

Rev. 19:15

* * * * * *

  • The original Greek is shown in [red]:

And Jesus went about all Galilee, teaching [✓] in their synagogues [assemblages of persons], preaching [heralding (as a public crier)] the gospel [good message] of the kingdom [properly royalty, that is, (abstractly) rule], and healing [to wait upon menially, that is, (specifically) to relieve (of disease)] all kinds of sickness [maladies] and all kinds of disease [softness, that is, enervation (debility)] among the people.

Mat. 4:23

When anyone hears the word [something said (including the thought)] of the kingdom [properly royalty, that is, (abstractly) rule], and does not understand it, then the wicked [hurtful] one comes and snatches [seizes] away what was sown in his heart. This is he who received seed by the wayside.

Mat. 13:19

 And this gospel [good message] of the kingdom [properly royalty, that is, (abstractly) rule] will be preached [heralded (as a public crier)] in all the world as a witness [something evidential, that is, (generally) evidence given] to all the nations [races (as of the same habit), that is, tribes], and then the end will come.

Mat. 24:14

Now after John was put in prison, Jesus came to Galilee, preaching [heralding (as a public crier)] the gospel [good message] of the kingdom [properly royalty, that is, (abstractly) rule] of God, 

Mark 1:14

And He was handed the book of the prophet Isaiah. And when He had opened the book, He found the place where it was written:

18 

“The Spirit [current of air, that is, breath (blast) or a breeze] of the Lord [supreme in authority] is upon Me,
Because He has anointed Me
To preach [announce good news] the gospel to the poor;
He has sent Me to heal the brokenhearted,
To proclaim liberty to the captives
And recovery of sight to the blind,
To set at liberty those who are oppressed;

Luke 4:17-18

Now it came to pass, afterward, that He went through every city and village, preaching [heralding (as a public crier)] and bringing the glad tidings [and announcing the good news] of the kingdom [properly royalty, that is, (abstractly) rule] of God. And the twelve were with Him, 

Luke 8:1

Now it happened on one of those days, as He taught [✓] the people in the temple and preached the gospel [announced good news], that the chief priests and the scribes, together with the elders, confronted Him

Luke 20:1

And how shall they preach [herald (as a public crier)] unless they are sent? As it is written:

“How beautiful are the feet of those who preach the gospel [announce good news] of peace,
Who bring glad tidings [announce good news] of good things [good]!”

Rom. 10:15

* * * * * * 

Paul, a bondservant [slave] of Jesus Christ [the Anointed], called [invited, that is, appointed] to be an apostle [a delegate], separated [set off by boundary, that is, (figuratively) limited, excluded, appointed, etc.] to the gospel [good message] of God 

Rom. 1:1

For God is my witness [✓], whom I serve with my spirit [current of air, that is, breath (blast) or a breeze] in the gospel [good message] of His Son, that without ceasing I make mention of you always in my prayers, 

Rom.1:9

For I am not ashamed of the gospel [good message] of Christ [the Anointed], for it is the power [force] of God to salvation [rescue or safety (physically or morally)] for everyone who believes [who has faith (in, upon, or with respect to, a person or thing)], for the Jew first and also for the Greek. 

Rom. 1:16

that I might be a minister [a public servant, that is, a functionary in the Temple] of Jesus Christ to the Gentiles, ministering [a temple worker, that is, officiating as a priest (figuratively)] the gospel [good message] of God, that the offering [presentation; concretely an oblation (bloodless) or sacrifice] of the Gentiles might be acceptable, sanctified [made holy, that is, (ceremonially) purified or consecrated] by the Holy [Sacred] Spirit [current of air, that is, breath (blast) or a breeze]. 

Rom. 15:16

But I know that when I come to you, I shall come in the fullness of the blessing [fine speaking, that is, elegance of language] of the gospel [good message] of Christ.

Rom. 15:29

Now to Him who is able to establish you according to my gospel [good message] and the preaching [proclamation] of Jesus Christ [The Anointed], according to the revelation [disclosure] of the mystery [a secret or “mystery”] kept secret [kept silent] since the world began

Rom. 16:25

And He said to them, “Go into all the world [orderly arrangement, that is, decoration; by implication the world] and preach [herald (as a public crier)] the gospel [good message] to every creature [formation]. 16 He who believes [has faith] and is baptized [made whelmed (that is, fully wet)] will be saved [saved, that is, delivered or protected]; but he who does not believe will be condemned.

Mark 16:15-16

Then the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid [frightened, that is, (passively) alarmed], for behold, I bring you good tidings [announce good news] of great [big]  joy [cheerfulness, that is, calm delight] which will be to all people. 11 For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior [Deliverer], who is Christ [Anointed] the Lord [Supreme Authority].

Luke 2:10-11

But none of these things move me; nor do I count my life dear to myself, so that I may finish my race with joy, and the ministry [attendance (as a servant, etc.)] which I received from the Lord [Supreme in Authority] Jesus, to testify [attest or protest earnestly] to the gospel [good message] of the grace [graciousness] of God.

Acts 20:24

In Him you also trusted, after you heard the word of truth, the gospel [good message] of your salvation [rescue or safety (physically or morally)]; in whom also, having believed, you were sealed [stamped (with a signet or private mark) for security or preservation] with the Holy [Sacred] Spirit [current of air, that is, breath (blast) or a breeze] of promise [announcement (for information, assent or pledge],

Eph. 1:13

But even after we had suffered before and were spitefully treated [exercise violence, that is, abused] at Philippi, as you know, we were bold [frank in utterance, or confident in spirit and demeanor] in our God to speak to you the gospel [good message] of God in much conflict [properly a place of assembly (as if led), that is, (by implication) a contest (held there)].

1 Thes. 2:2

But we are bound [owed (pecuniarily); figuratively to be under obligation (ought, must, should)] to give thanks to God always for you, brethren [brothers] beloved [loved (in a social or moral sense)] by the Lord [Supreme Authority], because God from the beginning chose you for salvation [rescue or safety (physically or morally)] through sanctification [properly purification, that is, (the state) purity] by the Spirit [current of air, that is, breath (blast) or a breeze] and belief in the truth, 14 to which He called you by our gospel [good message], for the obtaining [acquisition] of the glory [✓] of our Lord [Supreme Authority] Jesus Christ [Anointed].

2 Thes. 2:13-14

Glory (Defs.):   high renown or honor won by notable achievements.

                               magnificence or great beauty.

according to the glorious [glory (as very apparent)] gospel [good message] of the blessed [supremely blest; by extension fortunate, well off] God which was committed to my trust.

1 Tim. 1:11

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POSTSCRIPT:   This would fall under speculation, as it can’t be proved conclusively, but the Holy Spirit is mentioned in several of the above quoted texts. In all cases it’s translated from the original Greek as Holy [Sacred] Spirit [current of air, that is, breath (blast) or a breeze].

Note the following scripture: 

And when He (Jesus) had said this, He breathed [blew at or on] on them, and said to them, “Receive the Holy [Sacred] Spirit [current of air, that is, breath (blast) or a breeze]”.

John 20:22

Is it possible that the Holy Spirit is God (the Father’s, or even maybe even Jesus’) actual Sacred Breath?

THE “TRULY” INVISIBLE MAN

 

Now to the King eternal, immortal, invisible [✓], to God who alone is wise, be honor and glory forever and ever.  Amen.

1 Tim. 1:17

 

No one has seen God at any time. The only begotten Son, who is in the bosom of the Father, He has declared Him.

John 1:18

 

For since the creation of the world His invisible [✓] attributes are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even His eternal power and Godhead, so that they are without excuse,

Rom. 1:20

 

He is the image of the invisible [✓] God, the firstborn over all creation. 

Col. 1:15

 

By faith [persuasion, that is, credence] he forsook Egypt, not fearing the wrath of the king; for he endured as seeing Him who is invisible [✓].

Heb. 11:27

 

No one has seen God at any time. If we love [love (in a social or moral sense)] one another, God abides [stays (in a given place, state, relation or expectancy)] in us, and His love [love, that is, affection or benevolence] has been perfected [completed, that is, (literally) accomplished, or (figuratively) consummated (in character)] in us. 

1 John 4:12

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PERSEVERE IN THE ORIGINAL, TRUE, DELEGATES’ INSTRUCTION [WITHOUT GETTING INTO PICKY DETAILS, WHAT WE CALL THE NEW TESTAMENT]:

And they continued steadfastly [earnest towards/persevered] in the apostles’ [delegates’] doctrine [instruction] and fellowship, in the breaking of bread, and in prayers.   Acts 2:42

Definition:   Delegate:   a person sent or authorized to represent others.

That is the original Greek. The delegates were sent out to represent Jesus. They did an amazingly good job.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

MANY WILL COME IN MY NAME

Attributed to Gandhi.

For many will come in My name [“name” (literally or figuratively), (authority, character)], saying, ‘I am the [“the” is not in the KJV] Christ [anointed],’ and will deceive [cause to roam (from truth)] many.

Mat. 24:5

Is the name/word/title, “Christian” not coming in Christ’s name?

45,000 denominations

There are more than 45,000 denominations globally. Followers of Jesus span the globe. But the global body of more than 2 billion Christians is separated into thousands of denominations. Pentecostal, Presbyterian, Lutheran, Baptist, Apostolic, Methodist — the list goes on.   Jul 29, 2022

Would not 45,000 denominations (about 2 billion so-called “Christian” people) qualify as “many” [polos]?

Then many false prophets [spurious prophets, that is, pretended foreteller or religious impostor] will rise up and deceive [cause to roam from truth] many. 

Mat. 24:11

Sanctify [make (them) holy] them by Your truth. Your word is truth.

John 17:17

God’s Word, alone, is truth.

For false christs [spurious Messiahs] and false prophets [spurious prophets, that is, pretended foretellers or religious impostors] will rise and show great signs [indications, especially ceremonially or supernaturally] and wonders [prodigies or omens] to deceive [cause to roam (from truth], if possible, even the elect [select; by implication favorite].

Mat. 24:24

Prodigy (Def.):   a person, especially a young one, endowed with exceptional qualities or abilities.

                                    an impressive or outstanding example of a particular quality.

                                   an amazing or unusual thing, especially one out of the ordinary course of nature.

And the Lord said to me, “The prophets prophesy lies in My name. I have not sent them, commanded them, nor spoken to them; they prophesy to you a false vision, divination, a worthless thing, and the deceit of their heart.

Jer. 14:14

“I have not sent these prophets [a prophet or (generally) inspired man], yet they ran.

I have not spoken to them, yet they prophesied.

Jer. 23:21

“I have heard what the prophets have said who prophesy lies in My name, saying, ‘I have dreamed, I have dreamed!’ 

Jer. 23:25

I have come in My Father’s name, and you do not receive Me; if another comes in his own name, him you will receive. 

John 5:43

For some time ago Theudas rose up, claiming to be somebody. A number of men, about four hundred, joined him. He was slain, and all who obeyed him were scattered and came to nothing. 37 After this man, Judas of Galilee rose up in the days of the census, and drew away many people after him. He also perished, and all who obeyed him were dispersed. 

Acts 5:36-37

But there was a certain man called Simon, who previously practiced sorcery in the city and astonished the people of Samaria, claiming that he was someone great, 10 to whom they all gave heed, from the least to the greatest, saying, “This man is the great power of God.” 

Acts 8:9-10

All who dwell on the earth will worship him [the beast (dangerous animal)], whose names have not been written in the Book of Life of the Lamb slain from the foundation of the world.

Rev. 13:8

* * * * * *

PERSEVERE IN THE ORIGINAL, TRUE, DELEGATES’ (APOSTLES’) INSTRUCTION (THROUGH THEIR WRITTEN WORD, IN THE N.T.):

And they continued steadfastly [to be earnest towards/persevered]  in the apostles’ [delegates’] doctrine [instruction] and fellowship, in the breaking of bread, and in prayers.         Acts 2:42

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SHOULD YOU BELIEVE YOUR MILITARY CHAPLAIN (OR PRIEST)?

God’s Word is truth:

Sanctify them by Your truth. Your word is truth. 

John 17:17

The words of the Lord are pure words,

Like silver tried in a furnace of earth,

Purified seven times.

Ps. 12: 6

Jesus says:   “You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ 44 But I say to you, love [love (in a social or moral sense)] your enemies [hateful (passively odious, or actively hostile)], bless [speak well of] those who curse [execrate] [loathe] you, do good [well (usually morally)] to those who hate [detest] you, and pray for those who spitefully [insult, slander] use you and persecute [pursue] you, 45 that you may be sons of your Father in heaven; for He makes His sun rise on the evil [hurtful] and on the good, and sends rain on the just and on the unjust. 

Mat. 5:43-45.

Execrate:   feel or express great loathing for.

The Ukrainian army:   More than 738 military chaplains in the Armed Forces of Ukraine perform clerical duties.   Feb 12, 2024

5 June

Russia’s use of religion for military purposes:

Does the Russian military have chaplains?

The military chaplains are a concrete example of how the Russian Orthodox Church integrates with the armed forces, he claims. But there are few full-time positions, only about 250, in comparison with the number of uniformed servicemen.   Jun 5, 2024

A summary of, “What the militaries believe”:

Al Lundy has it in a nutshell: we are allowed to kill under three conditions: in self-defense or in defense of those who cannot defend themselves (which includes a just war), when lesser means are insufficient to stop the threat by the other person, and when innocent life (such as non-combatants or those who surrender . . .    Apr 25, 2018

So, who do you believe?

Are the Ukrainian, Russian chaplains (or priests), and Al Lundy telling the truth? Is their word truth, or is God’s Word Truth?

I think it’s obvious that God’s Word is truth.

* * * * * *

PERSEVERE IN THE ORIGINAL, TRUE, DELEGATES’ INSTRUCTION [WITHOUT GETTING INTO PICKY DETAILS, WHAT WE CALL THE NEW TESTAMENT]:

And they continued steadfastly [earnest towards/persevered] in the apostles’ [delegates’] doctrine [instruction] and fellowship, in the breaking of bread, and in prayers.   Acts 2:42

THESE DO NOT SEEM TO BE NATURAL EVENTS (ECLIPSES).

  • This blog, and post, will always direct you directly to your Creator, and God’s Word (Jesus).
  • Directly means directly. No pastors, nor incorporated, so-called, “Christian” churches. Absolutely no human being between you and your Creator.

But the hour is coming, and now is, when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth; for the Father is seeking such to worship Him. 24 God is Spirit, and those who worship Him must worship in spirit and truth.”   John 4:23-24.

God, who made the world and everything in it, since He is Lord of heaven and earth, does not dwell in temples made with hands.    

Acts 17:24

  • The actual Greek and/or Hebrew is in [red] and in square brackets [   ].
  • We all need reminders:   Jesus is the Word of God. The good message of John, first chapter:

In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. 2 He was in the beginning with God. 3 All things were made through Him, and without Him nothing was made that was made.

Verse 14:  And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we beheld His glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father, full of grace [graciousness] and truth.

Today’s Topic:   THESE DO NOT SEEM TO BE NATURAL EVENTS (ECLIPSES):

  • At the end times. It does not look like these are natural events (eclipses):

And there will be great earthquakes in various places, and famines and pestilences; and there will be fearful sights [frightening things] and great [big] signs [indications] from heaven [the skies]. 

Luke 21:11

“And there will be signs [indications] in the sun, in the moon, and in the stars [properly constellations]; and on the earth distress of nations, with perplexity [a (state of) quandary], the sea and the waves roaring [making a loud noise];

Luke 21:25

“Immediately after the tribulation [pressure] of those days the sun will be darkened  [obscured], and the moon will not give its light [brilliancy]; the stars [stars] will fall [probably through the idea of alighting] from heaven, and the powers [force] of the heavens [skies] will be shaken [wavering, that is, agitated, rocked, toppled].

Mat. 24:29

  • This is hard to understand, as the stars are generally larger than the earth. Possibly their light being dimmed somehow???
  • The darkness at Christ’s crucifixion was not a natural eclipse:
  • Off the web:
  • What time is the sixth hour in Matthew 27?

12 noon

Daylight hours were measured from sunrise (6 a.m.). The third hour was 9 a.m.; the sixth hour, 12 noon; and the ninth hour, 3 p.m. An event that occurred before sunset (the twelfth hour, 6 p.m.) was counted as taking place on that day and, after sunset, the next.

Passover is a spring festival, so the 15th day of Nisan typically begins on the night of a full moon after the northern vernal equinox. However, due to leap months falling after the vernal equinox, Passover sometimes starts on the second full moon after vernal equinox, as in 2016.

A solar eclipse occurs when the Moon passes between the Sun and Earth, casting the Moon’s shadow on Earth. A solar eclipse can only happen during a New Moon. The Moon’s orbit is titled 5 degrees to Earth’s orbit around the Sun.

  • Christ’s crucifixion was on Passover (Full moon). It was not a natural solar eclipse (New moon).
  • He was our sacrificial Lamb:

Now from the sixth hour (noon, our time) until the ninth hour (3 pm, our time) there was darkness [shadiness] over all the land [soil; by extension a region]. 46 And about the ninth hour Jesus cried out with a loud voice, saying, “Eli, Eli, lama sabachthani?” that is, “My God, My God, why have You forsaken Me?”

Mat. 27:45-46

Our sacrificial Lamb:

The next day John saw Jesus coming toward him, and said, “Behold! The Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world!  . . . . 

And looking at Jesus as He walked, he said, “Behold the Lamb of God!”

John 1: 29, 36.

The place in the Scripture which he read was this:

“He was led as a sheep to the slaughter;
And as a lamb before its shearer is silent,
So He opened not His mouth.

Acts 8:32

* * * * * * *

And they continued steadfastly [persevered] in the apostles’ [delegates’] doctrine [instruction] and fellowship, in the breaking of bread, and in prayers. 

Acts 2:42

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TO WHOM DOES GOD WANT YOU TO GIVE?

  • This blog, and post, will always direct you directly to your Creator, and God’s Word (Jesus).
  • Directly means directly. No pastors, nor incorporated, so-called, “Christian” churches. Absolutely no human being between you and your Creator.

“But the hour is coming, and now is, when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth; for the Father is seeking such to worship Him. 24 God is Spirit, and those who worship Him must worship in spirit and truth.”  

John 4:23-24.

“God, who made the world and everything in it, since He is Lord of heaven and earth, does not dwell in temples made with hands”.    

Acts 17:24

  • The actual Greek and/or Hebrew is in [red] and in square brackets [   ].
  • We all need reminders:   Jesus is the Word of God. The good message of John, first chapter:

In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. 2 He was in the beginning with God. 3 All things were made through Him, and without Him nothing was made that was made.

Verse 14:  And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we beheld His glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father, full of grace [graciousness] and truth.

Today’s topic:   TO WHOM DOES GOD WANT YOU TO GIVE?

“If there is among you a poor [destitute] man of your brethren [brothers], within any of the gates [openings/doors/gates] in your land which the Lord your God is giving you, you shall not harden your heart nor shut your hand from your poor [destitute] brother, 8 but you shall open your hand wide to him and willingly lend him sufficient for his need, whatever he needs. 9 Beware lest there be a wicked thought in your heart, saying, ‘The seventh year, the year of release, is at hand,’ and your eye be evil [spoilt/good for nothing/bad] against your poor [destitute] brother and you give him nothing, and he cry out to the Lord against you, and it become sin among you. 10 You shall surely give to him, and your heart should not be grieved when you give to him, because for this thing the Lord your God will bless you in all your works and in all to which you put your hand. 11 For the poor [destitute] will never cease from the land; therefore I command you, saying, ‘You shall open your hand wide to your brother, to your poor [depressed] and your needy [destitute], in your land.’

Deut. 15:7-11

Destitute (Definition):   without the basic necessities of life.

PLEASE NOTE:

  • IT IS A POOR (DESTITUTE) MAN (INDIVIDUAL), NOT AN INSTITUTION (E.G. CHURCH [IN MANY CASES CHURCHES ARE INCORPORATED], CHARITY, NOR RETAIL STORE, WHICH ARE CORPORATIONS) OF ANY SORT.
  • IT IS, “IN YOUR LAND”. NOT ACROSS THE WORLD.

“So the people asked him, saying, “What shall we do then?”

11 He answered and said to them, “He who has two tunics, let him give to him who has none; and he who has food, let him do likewise””.

Luke 3:10-11

PLEASE NOTE:

  • AGAIN, IT IS SHARING WITH AN INDIVIDUAL, NOT A CORPORATION, NOR GROUP, OF ANY SORT.

“Do not marvel [wonder], my brethren [brothers], if the world [orderly arrangement] hates [detests] you. 14 We know that we have passed from death to life, because we love the brethren [brothers]. He who does not love his brother abides in death. 15 Whoever hates [detests] his brother is a murderer, and you know that no murderer has eternal [perpetual] life abiding in him.

16 By this we know love, because He laid down His life for us. And we also ought to lay down our lives for the brethren [brothers]. 17 But whoever has this world’s goods, and sees his brother in need, and shuts up his heart from him, how does the love [love/affection/benevolence] of God abide in him?

18 My little children, let us not love [love (in a social or moral sense)] in word or in tongue, but in deed [toil] and in truth”. 

1 John 3:13-18

PLEASE NOTE:

  • IT IS AN INDIVIDUAL THAT YOU SEE IN NEED, NOT A CORPORATION.

These all died in faith, not having received the promises, but having seen them afar off were assured of them, embraced them and confessed [assented/acknowledged] that they were strangers [foreigners (literally aliens] and pilgrims [aliens alongside/resident foreigners] on the earth. 

Heb 11:13

Alien (Definition):  belonging to a foreign country or nation.

                                   a foreigner, especially one who is not a naturalized citizen of the country where they are living.

Remember:   If you are a believer, then you are an alien in this world system, and think differently from those around you.

“What does it profit, my brethren [brothers], if someone says he has faith but does not have works? Can faith save him? 15 If a brother or sister is naked and destitute of daily food, 16 and one of you says to them, “Depart in peace, be warmed and filled,” but you do not give them the things which are needed for the body, what does it profit? 17 Thus also faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead . . . . . 

 . . . . . 26 For as the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without works is dead also”.

James 2: 14-17, 26.

PLEASE NOTE:

  • IT IS AN INDIVIDUAL WHO IS WITHOUT CLOTHING AND DAILY FOOD, NOT A CORPORATION.

“Do not fear [be frightened], little flock, for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom. 33 Sell what you have and give alms [compassionateness/(as exercised towards the poor)]; provide yourselves money bags which do not grow old, a treasure [deposit] in the heavens [skies] that does not fail, where no thief approaches nor moth destroys. 34 For where your treasure [deposit/wealth] is, there your heart will be also”.

Luke 12:32-34

“They desired only that we should remember the poor [beggars (as cringing)], the very thing which I also was eager to do”.

Gal 2:10

AGAIN, IT IS AN INDIVIDUAL THAT IS BEGGING.

“Let him who stole steal no longer, but rather let him labor, working with his hands what is good, that he may have something to give him who has need”.

Eph. 4:28

“Pure [clean] and undefiled [unsoiled/pure] religion [ceremonial observance] before God and the Father is this: to visit orphans [bereaved (“orphan”)/parentless] and widows [a widow (as lacking a husband)] in their trouble [pressure], and to keep oneself unspotted [unblemished] from the world [orderly arrangement]”.

James 1: 27

Then the King will say to those on His right hand, ‘Come, you blessed [spoken well] of My Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world: 35 for I was hungry and you gave Me food; I was thirsty and you gave Me drink; I was a stranger and you took Me in; 36 I was naked and you clothed Me; I was sick and you visited Me; I was in prison and you came to Me.’

37 “Then the righteous will answer Him, saying, ‘Lord, when did we see You hungry and feed You, or thirsty and give You drink? 38 When did we see You a stranger and take You in, or naked and clothe You? 39 Or when did we see You sick, or in prison, and come to You?’ 40 And the King will answer and say to them, ‘Assuredly, I say to you, inasmuch as you did it to one of the least [least (in size, amount, dignity, etc.)] of these My brethren [brothers], you did it to Me.’

Mat. 25:34-40

NOTE THAT THE KING CALLED ALL OF THE “LEAST” (IN OUR SOCIETIES) BROTHERS.

Beloved, I beg you as sojourners [having a home near/a by-dweller (alien resident)] and pilgrims [aliens alongside/resident foreigners], abstain from fleshly lusts which war against the soul, 

1 Peter 2:11

REMEMBER, AGAIN: IF YOU ARE A BELIEVER, YOU ARE AN ALIEN RESIDENT IN THIS WORLD SYSTEM, AND THINK DIFFERENTLY FROM THOSE AROUND YOU.

PLEASE NOTE WELL:

  • NONE OF THE ABOVE SCRIPTURES SAY TO GIVE TO CHURCHES (MOST, IF NOT ALL, ARE CORPORATIONS), SYNAGOGUES, CORPORATIONS, CHARITIES (CORPORATIONS), OR INSTITUTIONS OF ANY SORT.
  • NO SCRIPTURE SAYS TO GIVE TO OTHERS, NOR INSTITUTIONS, WHO WILL, IN TURN, GIVE TO THE POOR.
  • YOU MAY BE UNINTENTIONALLY GIVING TO THE RICH. ALL EMPLOYEES OF A CHARITY, OR LARGE RETAILER, ARE PAID AND DON’T QUALIFY AS “POOR”. THE EXECUTIVES OF MANY CHARITIES, AND LARGE RETAILERS, ARE OBSCENELY WELL PAID.

P.S.   Apologies for the increased type size in the quote from 1 John 3:16-17. Sometimes WordPress has a “mind of it’s own”. I tried everything, that I knew how, and couldn’t correct it. There may be a “secret” of which I’m not familiar!

WHY ARE YOU TITHING?

 

  • This blog, and post, will always direct you directly to your Creator, and God’s Word (Jesus).
  • Directly means directly. No pastors, nor incorporated, so-called, “Christian” churches. Absolutely no human being between you and your Creator.

But the hour is coming, and now is, when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth; for the Father is seeking such to worship Him. 24 God is Spirit, and those who worship Him must worship in spirit and truth.”   John 4:23-24.

God, who made the world and everything in it, since He is Lord of heaven and earth, does not dwell in temples made with hands.    

Acts 17:24

  • The actual Greek and/or Hebrew is in [red] and in square brackets [   ].
  • We all need reminders:   Jesus is the Word of God. The good message of John, first chapter:

In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. 2 He was in the beginning with God. 3 All things were made through Him, and without Him nothing was made that was made.

Verse 14:  And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we beheld His glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father, full of grace [graciousness] and truth.

Today’s topic:   WHY ARE YOU TITHING?

Abraham lived almost 4,000 years ago, before the Law was given. What he did almost 4,000 years ago (paying a tenth of his spoils) to Melchizedek (who had perpetual life) has little to do with you paying a tithe to other human beings today.

The Law came from God through Moses (about 2000 years after Abraham):

  1.     To where did God command that tithes be taken?

“Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse [house/depository], so that there may be food in My house, and test Me now in this,” says the Lord of hosts, “if I will not open for you the windows of heaven and pour out for you a blessing until it overflows.”

Malachi 3:10.

Tithes were to be taken into the storehouse (depository).

Where was the storehouse?

The priest, the son of Aaron, shall be with the Levites when the Levites receive tithes, and the Levites shall bring up the tenth of the tithes to the house of our God, to the chambers of the storehouse.

Neh. 10:38

The storehouse (depository) was in the temple.

THE PHYSICAL TEMPLE BUILDING, INCLUDING THE STOREHOUSE  (DEPOSITORY), WAS DESTROYED IN 70 A.D. YOU COULDN’T TITHE TODAY (BIBLICALLY, OR “PROPERLY”), EVEN IF YOU WANTED TO.

  1.    To whom were tithes to be paid?

“To the sons of Levi, behold, I have given all the tithe in Israel for an inheritance, in return for their service which they perform, the service of the tent of meeting.

24 For the tithe of the sons of Israel, which they offer as an offering to the Lord, I have given to the Levites for an inheritance; therefore I have said concerning them, ‘They shall have no inheritance among the sons of Israel.’”

Num. 18:21,24

Tithes were given to the Levites.

THERE IS NO PHYSICAL LEVITICAL PRIESTHOOD ON EARTH TODAY. PASTORS/MINISTERS/PRIESTS TEACHING AND COLLECTING TITHES ARE NOT LEVITES. THEY ARE ROBBING PEOPLE.

1 Corinthians 16:2-3:

On the first day of the week let each one of you lay something aside, storing up as he may prosper, that there be no collections when I come. 3 And when I come, whomever you approve by your letters I will send to bear your gift to Jerusalem. 

This was a special collection for suffering Jewish Christians in Jerusalem:

“Paul begins to give the church in Corinth specific instructions about collecting money for suffering Jewish Christians in Jerusalem. Many Bible teachers apply these as ground-level principles for how modern Christians should give to local churches and other needs” . . . . 

 . . . . . “In fact, the New Testament never commands Christians to tithe in the way the Old Testament required (Leviticus 27:30; Numbers 18:26). Jews (added: and Israelites) living under the Old Testament law were obligated to tithe, in addition to other required contributions to the temple and the priests.”

https://www.bibleref.com/1-Corinthians/16/1-Corinthians-16-2.html

To whom we should give will be covered in a future post.

In the meantime, we are encouraged to persevere in the original delegates’ (apostles’) instruction (what we refer to [generally] as the New Testament). This point cannot be overemphasized:

And they continued steadfastly [persevered] in the apostles’ [delegates’] doctrine [instruction] and fellowship, in the breaking of bread, and in prayers. 

Acts 2:42

*******

TO REPEAT:

PERSEVERE IN THE ORIGINAL, TRUE, DELEGATES’ INSTRUCTION:

And they continued steadfastly [persevered] in the apostles’ [delegates’] doctrine [instruction] and fellowship, in the breaking of bread, and in prayers. 

Acts 2:42

AUTHORITY

OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA
  • This blog, and post, will always direct you directly to your Creator, and God’s Word (Jesus).
  • Directly means directly. No pastors, nor incorporated, so-called, “Christian” churches. Absolutely no human being between you and your Creator.

But the hour is coming, and now is, when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth; for the Father is seeking such to worship Him. 24 God is Spirit, and those who worship Him must worship in spirit and truth.”   John 4:23-24.

God, who made the world and everything in it, since He is Lord of heaven and earth, does not dwell in temples made with hands.    

Acts 17:24

  • The actual Greek and/or Hebrew is in [red] and in square brackets [   ].
  • We all need reminders:   Jesus is the Word of God. The good message of John, first chapter:

In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. 2 He was in the beginning with God. 3 All things were made through Him, and without Him nothing was made that was made.

Verse 14:  And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we beheld His glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father, full of grace [graciousness] and truth.

 

Today’s topic:   AUTHORITY.

 

  • This is, obviously, not popular in our societies today.
  • I didn’t write the sacred scriptures. I just read them as you do:

 

Let a woman learn in silence [stillness] with all submission [subordination]. 

1 Tim. 2:11

 

Subordinate (English definition):   As adjective:   lower in rank or position.

                                                          As noun:   a person under the authority or control of another within an organization.

 

In English:   The prefix sub- means “lower” and ordinate refers to an ordering of things.

                                                         

To the woman He said:

“I will greatly multiply your sorrow and your conception;
In pain you shall bring forth children;
Your desire shall be for your husband [man as an individual or a male person],
And he shall rule over you.”             

Gen. 3:16                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                  

When the king’s decree which he will make is proclaimed throughout all his empire (for it is great), all wives will honor their husbands, both great and small.”

Est. 1:20

Then he sent letters to all the king’s provinces, to each province in its own script, and to every people in their own language, that each man should be master in his own house, and speak in the language of his own people.

Est. 1:22.

But I want you to know that the head of every man is Christ, the head of woman is man, and the head of Christ is God.

1 Cor. 11:3

  • Obviously, if a woman doesn’t have a man in her life, then she reports directly to Christ. The behavior doesn’t change, just the person to whom she is directly subordinate.

 

Let your women keep silent in the churches [calling outs], for they are not permitted to speak; but they are to be submissive [subordinate], as the law also says. 35 And if they want to learn something, let them ask their own husbands at home; for it is shameful [a shameful thing] for women to speak in church.

1 Cor. 14:34-35



Wives, submit [subordinate] to your own husbands, as to the Lord. 23 For the husband is head of the wife, as also Christ is head of the church; and He is the Savior of the body. 24 Therefore, just as the church is subject to Christ, so let the wives be to their own husbands in everything.

Eph. 5:22-24

 

Wives, submit [subordinate] to your own husbands, as is fitting [to attain to] in the Lord.

Col. 3:18

 

Wives, likewise, be submissive [subordinate] to your own husbands, that even if some do not obey the word, they, without a word, may be won by the conduct of their wives,

1 Peter 3:1



For in this manner, in former times, the holy [sacred] women who trusted in God also adorned themselves, being submissive [subordinate] to their own husbands, 6 as Sarah obeyed Abraham, calling him lord [supreme in authority], whose daughters you are if you do good and are not afraid with any terror.

1 Peter 3:5-6



ANTICHRIST (AN OPPONENT OF THE MESSIAH):   


  • As I’ve mentioned before, a lot of topics overlap each other.
  • I’m very grateful that the delegate John wrote about people being “opponents of the Messiah”. It simplifies things for us, to recognise the many aspects of “antichrist” in our societies.

 

A reminder of what he wrote:

Little children, it is the last hour; and as you have heard that the Antichrist is coming, even now many antichrists have come, by which we know that it is the last hour. 19 They went out from us, but they were not of us; for if they had been of us, they would have continued with us; but they went out that they might be made manifest, that none of them were of us.

1 John 2:18-19


  • I take the “us” as the original, true, delegates (apostles). It could also mean, “believers”.
  • In either case, it is in a religious context.
  • As I’ve said before: What don’t you understand about the word, “many”?
  • It is easy to recognise “opponents of the Messiah” in secular situations, a little harder to recognise them in a religious context.

 

A few examples (of major, so-called “Christian” denominations):


  • First example:   “Of the 66 ********* bishops either consecrated or “translated” since then, 43 are women, people of color, LGBTQ+ bishops, or a combination of more than one of those categories.”   May 16, 2023
  • Approximately 1.6 million members.
  • Another one:   “As of August 2017, 24 women have since been elected to the episcopate across the church.”
  • Episcopate (Definition):   the office or term of office of a bishop.
  • Approximately 85 million (worldwide) members.
  • Another one:   “The *** ordains women as both Teaching Elders (pastors) and Ruling Elders.” 
  • Approximately 75 million members worldwide.
  • Clearly these so-called, “Christian” denominations are antichrist (opponents of the Messiah).
  • There is one denomination that does not ordain women:   “the ********* Church teaches that it is impossible to ordain a woman as a deacon, priest, or bishop.”
  • Before you go rushing off to join this church, it is antichrist (an opponent of the Messiah) in other areas. There is more than one way to be an opponent of the Messiah.
  • God willing, in future posts [I don’t know when], I’ll show you how, in other ways, so-called “Christian” denominations are antichrist.



* * * * * * * *



PERSEVERE IN THE ORIGINAL, TRUE, DELEGATES’ INSTRUCTION (THROUGH THEIR WRITTEN WORD, IN THE NT):

And they continued steadfastly [persevered] in the apostles’ [delegates’] doctrine [instruction] and fellowship, in the breaking of bread, and in prayers.       Acts 2:42