Tag: Lord

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

* * * * * *

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?

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

SHOULD YOU ALWAYS FOLLOW HUMAN GOVERNMENT?

  • 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:   SHOULD YOU ALWAYS OBEY HUMAN GOVERNMENT?

Let every soul be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and the authorities that exist are appointed [arranged] by God. 2 Therefore whoever resists the authority resists the ordinance [arrangement] of God, and those who resist will bring judgment on themselves. 3 For rulers are not a terror to good works, but to evil [worthless]. Do you want to be unafraid of the authority? Do what is good, and you will have praise from the same. 4 For he is God’s minister to you for good. But if you do evil [worthlessness], be afraid; for he does not bear the sword in vain; for he is God’s minister [attendant], an avenger to execute wrath on him who practices evil [worthlessness]. 5 Therefore you must be subject, not only because of wrath but also for conscience’ sake. 6 For because of this you also pay taxes, for they are God’s ministers attending continually to this very thing. 7 Render therefore to all their due: taxes to whom taxes are due, customs to whom customs, fear to whom fear, honor to whom honor.

Romans 13:1-7

  • Most read Paul’s writing, and stop right there. There are more scriptures to look at.
  • He seems to be saying, “respect the human authorities”, which other scriptures endorse.

A few of the other scriptures:

But the midwives feared God, and did not do as the king of Egypt commanded them, but saved the male children alive. 

Ex. 1:17

  • They obviously understood the 6th commandment.

 

  • In the same time period:

 

By faith Moses, when he was born, was hidden three months by his parents, because they saw he was a beautiful child; and they were not afraid of the king’s command.

Heb. 11:23


  • A little later:

By faith he forsook Egypt, not fearing the wrath of the king; for he endured as seeing Him who is invisible. 

Heb. 11:27

 

  • The principle is to obey God rather than man:

 

But Peter and the other apostles [delegates] answered and said: “We ought to obey God rather than men.    Acts 5:29


  • I’m not the first to recognise how wonderfully amazing the book of Daniel is. The first 8 chapters are straight history, and easy to read and understand. Then an amazing prayer (chapter 9). Only after this does it get into prophecy.
  • We’d do well to live our lives, as Daniel, and his friends did theirs.
  • No protests, nor riots. They just got on with their lives, quietly, and minded their own business. It was “certain Chaldeans” that reported them to the king.
  • It should be pointed out that Daniel would be regarded as a traitor in this day-and-age. He worked for the king of Judah, then the king of Babylon, then the Median king. He did not rejoice that his original land (Judah) had been taken over by the Babylonians, but he recognised . . . . .

. . . . . In order that the living may know

That the Most High rules in the kingdom of men,

Gives it to whomever He will,

And sets over it the lowest [lowest] of men.’   Dan 4:17

 

  • We probably have some of those “low” men ruling over us today!

 

Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego’s response to the king:

If that is the case, our God whom we serve is able to deliver us from the burning fiery furnace, and He will deliver us from your hand, O king. 18 But if not, let it be known to you, O king, that we do not serve your gods, nor will we worship the gold image which you have set up.”   Dan. 3:17-18.

Daniel’s response after being thrown in the lion’s den:

Then Daniel said to the king, “O king, live forever! 22 My God sent His angel and shut the lions’ mouths, so that they have not hurt me, because I was found innocent before Him; and also, O king, I have done no wrong before you.”   Dan. 6:21-22

 

To repeat: 

  • These men did not look for trouble.
  • They served their Creator, and minded their own business.
  • It was others that reported them (informed/snitched) to the king.
  • They respected the human authorities.
  • They accepted whatever human punishments were applicable, even though “unfairly snitched upon”, and trusted in their Creator.

 

A few wrap-up thoughts to this section:

Let your conduct be without covetousness; be content with such things as you have. For He Himself has said, “I will never leave you nor forsake you.” 6 So we may boldly say:

“The Lord is my helper;
I will not fear.
What can man do to me?”

Heb. 13:6

In God (I will praise His word),

In God I have put my trust;

I will not fear.

What can flesh do to me?

Ps 56:4

The Lord is on my side;

I will not fear.

What can man do to me?

Ps. 118:6

. . . . Nor be afraid of their threats, nor be troubled.

           13 

       The Lord of hosts, Him you shall hallow;

       Let Him be your fear,

       And let Him be your dread [awe/dread].

       Isa. 8:12-13

ANTICHRIST:

  • As I’ve said before, a lot of these topics overlap.
  • Events of the last few years bring this topic into sharp focus.
  • A reminder: The word “antichrist” is only used 4 times in the delegate John’s letters. In the original Greek it means, “an opponent of the Messiah”.
  • “Little children, it is the last hour; and as you have heard that the Antichrist is coming, even now many [much/many] antichrists [opponents of the Messiah] have come, by which we know that it is the last hour”.    1 John 2:18
  • What don’t you understand about the word “many”?
  • If there were many antichrists in the delegate John’s day, there’s a high probability that there are many in our day.

You may need a reminder of “the Beginning”:

Then God saw everything [the whole] that He had made, and indeed it was very [vehemently] good. So the evening and the morning were the sixth day.   

Gen. 1:31

  • We don’t use “vehemently” much in modern English, but it means, “forcefully”.

So God saw “the whole” (including man, woman, and their immune systems), and said (forcefully) that the whole was good.

So, on the one side you have your Creator saying that your immune system is forcefully good. In opposition, you have human beings saying that natural immunity is not good enough:

“New studies show that natural immunity to the coronavirus weakens (wanes) over time, and does so faster than immunity provided by COVID-19 vaccination”. Nov 23, 2021   (Off the web).

  • Human beings are, again, “antichrist”. In opposition to the Messiah.
  • Very little, or no, attempt was made to strengthen the immune system. Basically diet, and exercise. 

This scripture doesn’t prove anything, but it is interesting in what these people “missed” while in a desert:

We remember the fish which we ate freely in Egypt, the cucumbers, the melons, the leeks, the onions, and the garlic;    Num. 11:5

  • It is also interesting that about 60 years ago a favorite sandwich was: raw tomato, raw onion, and cheese, with salt and pepper. Delicious!
  • Be aware of the propaganda to which you are subject.

* * * * * * * *

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

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CHOOSE YOUR “KING” (LEADER) WISELY

  • 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.
  • The actual Greek and/or Hebrew is [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:

CHOOSE YOUR “KING” (LEADER) WISELY:

Definition of a King:   a male ruler of a country who usually inherits his position and rules for life.

  • Focus on the, “ruler of a country”. In the “modern” world that could be a King, Queen, President, or Prime Minister, depending on the country in which you live.
  • Lord Jesus Christ’s name and title:   Lord [Supreme Authority] Jesus [Jesus/Jehoshua] Christ [Anointed].
  • Just what don’t you understand about Supreme Authority?
  • You have a simple choice:   1. Giving total, supreme, allegiance to your national leader, or 2.  giving total, supreme allegiance to your Creator, Jesus Christ (the Word of God).
  • I think there’s a great misunderstanding of Romans, chapter 13, by many people. There are several other scriptures which clarify our understanding of our relationship with our human government. This will be covered in a future post, but we must be respectful of our human authorities.
  • We are to respect our human authorities, but God is still overall Supreme:

  • Honor [prize] all people. Love the brotherhood. Fear [be frightened (of)] God. Honor [prize] the king [sovereign].   1 Peter 2:17
  • My son, fear [fear] the Lord [Self Existent] and the king [king];

Do not associate with those given to change;   Prov. 24:21

  • England requires new citizens to swear/affirm an oath:   The Oath of Allegiance (Judicial or Official Oath) is a promise to be loyal to the British monarch, and his or her heirs and successors, sworn by certain public servants in the United Kingdom, and also by newly naturalized subjects in citizenship ceremonies.
  • New Canadians don’t get away from it either:
  • In Canada, the King is the Head of State; therefore, in order to become citizens, all applicants for citizenship who are 14 years of age or older must swear or affirm to be faithful and bear true allegiance to His Majesty King Charles the Third, King of Canada, His Heirs and Successors. Jul 8, 2021
  • New Americans don’t really get away with it either:
  • The Naturalization Act of 1906 added the section of the oath requiring new citizens to defend the Constitution and laws of the United States of America against all enemies, foreign and domestic; and bear true faith and allegiance to the same. The Oath acquired a standard text in 1929.
  • Definition of Allegiance:   loyalty or commitment of a subordinate to a superior or of an individual to a group or cause.
  • We know how this part of the story ends:

  • “The ten horns which you saw are ten kings [sovereigns] who have received no kingdom as yet, but they receive authority for one hour as kings [sovereigns] with the beast [dangerous animal]. 13 These are of one mind, and they will give their power [force] and authority [privilege] to the beast [dangerous animal]. 14 These will make war with the Lamb, and the Lamb will overcome [subdue] them, for He is Lord [Supreme in Authority] of lords [Supremes in Authority] and King [Sovereign] of kings [Sovereigns]; and those who are with Him are called [invited], chosen [selected], and faithful [trustworthy].”   Rev. 17:12-14
  • And I saw the beast [dangerous animal], the kings [sovereigns]  of the earth, and their armies [armaments], gathered together to make war [warfare] against Him who sat on the horse and against His army. 20 Then the beast [dangerous animal] was captured, and with him the false [spurious] prophet who worked signs [indications] in his presence, by which he deceived [caused to roam (from safety, truth, and virtue)] those who received the mark [scratch/etching] of the beast [dangerous animal] and those who worshiped [fawned or crouched to] his image [likeness]. These two were cast [thrown] alive into the lake [pond] of fire [lightning ???] burning [set on fire] with brimstone [sulphur]. 21 And the rest [remaining ones] were killed with the sword [sabre] which proceeded from the mouth of Him who sat on the horse. And all the birds were filled with their flesh.   Rev. 19:19-21
  • So much for nuclear weapons!
  • Your human leader may live 70 to 100 years, Jesus will live forever:

However, for this reason I obtained mercy, that in me first Jesus Christ might show all longsuffering [forbearance], as a pattern to those who are going to believe on Him for everlasting [perpetual] life. 17 Now to the King eternal [(in) perpetuity], immortal [undecaying], invisible, to God who alone is wise, be honor [value] and glory forever and ever. Amen.  

1 Tim. 1:16-17

But Peter and the other apostles [delegates] answered and said: “We ought to obey [to be persuaded by a ruler/to submit to authority] God rather than men [manfaced/human beings].  Acts 5:29.

  • Choose your “King” wisely.
  • You follow your human leader, as long as they follow Jesus. Unfortunately, I think they generally mean well, but they get terrible theological advice.
  • To finalize this post, and to further clarify the subject, we go back to antichrist:

ANTICHRIST

  • As I’ve said before, a lot of these topics overlap each other.
  • You have a prime example of antichrist right in front of you almost every day (in the news, August, 2023).
  • You have the Ukraine war.
  • On the one side you have the Russian leader, who says something like, “the guys over the hill are bad guys. Go kill them”.
  • On the other side you have the Ukrainian leader saying something like, “the guys over the hill are bad guys. Go kill them”.
  • The Russian equivalent of an army chaplain is a Russian Orthodox priest (number with the army, in Ukraine, is difficult to determine), and the Ukrainian army have chaplains (>160 with the army in the war).
  • It doesn’t mean anything.

  • The Ancient Greek for “antichrist” is, “an opponent of the Messiah” (Jesus).
  • In opposition, you have your Creator saying:
  • “You have heard that it was said to those of old, ‘You shall not murder [be a murderer], and whoever murders will be in danger [liable] of the judgment [tribunal/justice].’ 22 But I say to you that whoever is angry with his brother without a cause shall be in danger of the judgment. And whoever says to his brother, ‘Raca [O empty one/worthless] !’ shall be in danger of the council. But whoever says, ‘You fool [dull/stupid]!’ shall be in danger of hell fire.    Mat. 5:21-22
  • “You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy [hateful (one)] .’ 44 But I say to you, love your enemies [hateful (ones)], bless [speak well of] those who curse [loathe] you, do good [well] to those who hate [detest] you, and pray for those who spitefully use [insult/slander] 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
  • You’re hardly showing love [affection/benevolence, 1 Cor. 13] to someone by dropping bombs, rockets, or shells on their heads!
  • So both sides in the Ukraine war are in opposition to the Messiah (Jesus), and hence antichrist.
  • One of Jesus’ titles is, “Prince of Peace”:
  • For unto us a Child is born,

Unto us a Son is given;

And the government will be upon His shoulder.

And His name will be called

Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God,

Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.   Isa. 9:6.

Now to the King eternal, immortal [undecaying], invisible, to God who alone is wise, be honor and glory forever and ever. Amen. 1 Tim. 1:17

NO-NONSENSE THEOLOGY

 The purpose of this blog is to:

  • Point people DIRECTLY* to God’s Word. Follow Jesus, follow Jesus, follow Jesus (read God’s Word directly), and
  • Demystify [make easier to understand] some of God’s Word.   
  • “The secret things belong to the Lord our God, but those things which are revealed belong to us and to our children forever, that we may do all the words of this law”.

Deut. 29:29.

All of the translations are flawed in some way. Some are bad translations, and some are antiquated English which we don’t use any more. Some use “religious language”, which is nonsense. Has this been deliberate over the centuries, or is it just fallible human beings trying their best? Who knows (?), but we will try to clarify the important parts.

*DIRECTLY MEANS DIRECTLY. NO PASTORS NOR INCORPORATED, SO-CALLED, “CHRISTIAN” CHURCHES (CURRENTLY > 45,000 DENOMINATIONS, WORLDWIDE). ABSOLUTELY NO HUMAN BEING BETWEEN YOU AND YOUR CREATOR.

READ AND BELIEVE GOD’S WORD (THE BIBLE) DIRECTLY.

Jesus is the Word. 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. 4 In Him was life, and the life was the light of men. 5 And the light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not comprehend it.   

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.

John 1:1-5, 14.

  • The actual original Greek, or Hebrew, will be shown in brackets, in red, within the quotes.
  • It is recommended that you read the following topics from the list on the right:   

Topics Already Published:

JUST WHAT IS THIS “GOSPEL” THING?

https://nononsensetheology.ca/2025/07/02/just-what-is-this-gospel-thing/

LOVE (IN A SOCIAL AND MORAL SENSE) THOSE WHO HATE YOU

https://nononsensetheology.ca/2025/05/03/love-in-a-social-or-moral-sense-those-who-hate-you/

WHAT WAS THE ISSUE WITH ADAM AND EVE?

https://nononsensetheology.ca/2025/04/26/what-was-the-issue-with-adam-and-eve/

THE “TRULY” INVISIBLE MAN

https://nononsensetheology.ca/2024/09/15/the-truly-invisible-man/

MANY WILL COME IN MY NAME

https://nononsensetheology.ca/2024/09/09/many-will-come-in-my-name/

SHOULD YOU BELIEVE YOUR MILITARY CHAPLAIN (OR PRIEST)?

https://nononsensetheology.ca/2024/08/11/should-you-believe-your-military-chaplain-or-priest/

OUR NATURAL HOSTILITY TOWARDS GOD

OUR NATURAL HOSTILITY TOWARDS GOD.

FOLLOW JESUS

https://nononsensetheology.ca/2023/08/12/follow-me-jesus/.

CRITERIA OF A TRUE DELEGATE (APOSTLE).

https://nononsensetheology.ca/2023/07/10/criteria-of-a-true-delegate-apostle/

CHOOSE YOUR KING WISELY

https://nononsensetheology.ca/2023/08/20/choose-your-king-leader-wisely/

YOU SHALL NOT STEAL

https://nononsensetheology.ca/2023/09/03/you-shall-not-steal/

SHOULD YOU ALWAYS FOLLOW HUMAN GOVERNMENT?

https://nononsensetheology.ca/2023/10/15/should-you-always-follow-human-government/

LET THERE BE LIGHT

https://nononsensetheology.ca/2023/11/02/let-there-be-light/

AUTHORITY

https://nononsensetheology.ca/2023/11/30/authority/

WHY ARE YOU TITHING?

https://nononsensetheology.ca/2023/12/09/why-are-you-tithing/

TO WHOM DOES GOD WANT YOU TO GIVE?

https://nononsensetheology.ca/2024/01/20/to-whom-does-god-want-you-to-give/

BELIEVE IN SOMETHING AS TRUE, AND DON’T OPPOSE IT (FAITH):

https://nononsensetheology.ca/2024/07/07/believe-in-something-as-true-and-dont-oppose-it-faith/

Check the “Recent Posts” on the right.

To be published soon:

ANTICHRIST

LIGHT HEARTED CHEERFULNESS

That should help you in your understanding of the hurtful world around you, and your place in it.

Have you tried formal, humanly organized, “Christianity”, and not found it useful?    Cheer up, you’re not the first:

Hypocrites [actors (stage players)]! Well did Isaiah prophesy [foretell events] about you, saying:

‘These people draw near to Me with their mouth,
And honor Me with their lips,
But their heart [thoughts and/or feelings (mind)] is far from Me.

And in vain [to no purpose] they worship [revere/adore] Me,
Teaching as doctrines [instructions] the commandments [injunctions/religious precepts] of men [human beings].’ ”

Mat. 15:7-9

Very few human beings, in this day and age, are fearful before God’s Word:

 . . . “But on this one will I look:

On him who is poor [depressed, in mind or circumstances] and of a contrite [smitten] spirit,

And who trembles [(is) fearful] at My word.

Isa. 66:2

* * * * * *

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.

* * * * *

Topics will be added to this blog from time-to-time.

OUR NATURAL HOSTILITY TOWARDS GOD.

  • This blog will always direct you directly to your Creator, and God’s Word (What we know as the Bible).
  • Directly means directly. No pastors, nor incorporated, so-called, “Christian” churches. Absolutely no human being between you and your Creator.
  • The actual Greek and/or Hebrew is [red] and in square brackets [   ].
  • Today’s topic:

OUR NATURAL MENTAL INCLINATION IS HOSTILE TOWARDS GOD

PART 1:   OUR NATURAL INCLINATION IS HOSTILITY TOWARDS GOD:

  • Because the carnal [fleshly] mind [mental inclination or purpose] is enmity [hostility/a reason for opposition] against [to or into] God; for it is not subject [subordinated/obedient] to the law of God, nor indeed can be. 8 So then, those who are in the flesh cannot please God.   Rom. 8:7-8
  • And even as they did not like to retain [hold] God in their knowledge, God gave them over to a debased [unapproved, that is, rejected; by implication worthless] mind, to do those things which are not fitting;    Rom. 1:28.
  • For if when we were enemies [hateful] we were reconciled [changed mutually] to God through the death of His Son, much more, having been reconciled [mutually changed], we shall be saved by His life.    Rom. 5:10.

PART 2:       Jesus was speaking to His learners [actual Greek word, misleading “religious word” = disciples] over 2000 years ago. We are all learners of the Anointed Jesus. It is not unusual to be hated for speaking about God’s Word:

  • His disciples [learners] said to Him, “See, now You are speaking plainly, and using no figure of speech!   John 16:29
  • I have given them Your word; and the world has hated them because they are not of the world, just as I am not of the world. 

         John 17:14

PART 3:   No human being is claiming to be, “a Samuel”, but it’s the principle of the story that we need to pay attention to:

But the thing displeased Samuel when they said, “Give us a king to judge us.” So Samuel prayed to the Lord [Self Existent]. 7 And the Lord [Self Existent] said to Samuel, “Heed the voice of the people in all that they say to you; for they have not rejected [spurned] you, but they have rejected [spurned] Me, that I should not reign over them.     

1 Sam. 8:6-7.

Spurn (definition):   to reject with distain or contempt.

When people criticize, or reject you, because of your belief in God’s Word, while hurtful, they are not rejecting you, but they are rejecting their Creator, and His Word.

* * * * *

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

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