“A Story of Three Men / or A Parable of the Trustworthy King?”

“A Story of Three Men /or
A Parable of the Trustworthy King?”

The Kingdom of God is similar this story:

There was a certain King who was the most righteous and noble of all kings, famous for his mighty deeds and known for His godly character. One day, He was deeply grieved because some of his own servants had betrayed him and rebelled against his father’s kingdom. He was not surprised, for many people did the same to his father. Therefore, he set it in his heart to obey the command of his father, “let us dwell not only with loyal servants but among a people to receive as our own. Ones who will love and trust us as sons and daughters, and brothers and sisters do.”







So, he began searching the entire earth for trustworthy people to call his own and fellowship with: that they would experience the love that he and his father shared together. During his adventures, he once traveled as a Sheppard, allowing humble garments to temporarily veil his royal clothing.







Eventually, he came upon a large city that was full of wickedness, and met three people outside its gates; an angry person, an indecisive one, and friend with a soft heart.






The first man came running from the opposite direction and rushes towards the city. He attempted to push the king aside, but the famous one was as an unmovable rock and kept him from his pursuit of wickedness. This man became angry and yelled at Him, “Who are you to get in my way?” So, the king revealed himself, but the angry one did not believe him. “You can’t be this man who you claim to be. I have heard many different things from all kinds of people regarding the king and he is not like you. Besides he does not come this way.” However, before the angry one could leave, the king warned him once more, “I tell you the truth, I AM. Also, if you continue on this path, you will surely die tonight. Rather, believe me for who I am. Come sup (eat) with me tonight, that you may dwell in my father’s house as one of our own. Then you we would trust one another and you will surly have abundant life and not taste death.” The man did not listen or heed the king’s godly warning and invitation, but hurried off into the city and pursued all his sinful desires.


A second man was wondering indecisively back and forth outside the city entrance, and asked the godly king for advice. They immediately recognized each other, and began walking and talking together.Then the trustworthy king invited him as he did with so many others, “Come sup (eat) with me, and dwell in my father’s house as a member of my own family. I will give you rest for your weary soul and you will have life. Then we might trust one another and live in peace.” The indecisive man was flattered by the request, but politely declined, “Though you are very willing to help me and I remember how trustworthy and powerful you are, I must do as I please for now. Later I will come, after short while. Once I have tried my own way in this city, doing all that I want with my own strength Then, I will surly come.” The trustworthy king was deeply saddened once more, but not surprised. He replied gently, “I tell you the truth, you are right in saying that I AM. Though my invitation is always yours, if you continue on this path you will surely die this very night while you sleep in your drunkenness. Rather, believe me for who I am ever more. Come follow me, be with me forever and you will most assuredly have life to the fullest.” However, the man convinced himself that he would come later and insisted that he go his own way for a period of time.


A third man was traveling in the same direction as the godly king and following in his footsteps along the same path. He begins walking beside him. “It is you!” he shouts joyfully, “Just as I have heard from your trusted friends! I too, am in search of those with good character that we might be as brothers and dwell in peace together. Yet, I am tired from the trials of my journey; let’s stop in the city for a while. I know this place is evil, so we won’t stay long.” He then led him to the entrance of the city gates but the good king stopped and rebuked him gently, “if you continue on this path, you will surely die tonight.” Then the tired one, in holy fear, took him at his word and believed. So, he asked, “My gracious king, you are truly greater than all man I have ever known. Say the word, and I will obey. Therefore, tell me how I may find life instead of death?” The king answered, “You have brought me great delight good and faithful servant. For I know you will believe me for who I am and serve me through the ends of your days. Come, you are now my brother. Follow me, and we will sup (eat) together, and dwell with my father in peace. Then, you will have the abundant life you seek.”Immediately, he came to his senses and heeded the words of the king. Therefore, they turned around and did as the king had instructed.




Later that very night, just as the king prophesied, a band of robbers came and burned the wicked city to the ground. Everyone there, including the first two men, was killed. Though they were warned by the most trustworthy of all men, and the greatest king is history, they did not believe.

On his journey, the king found more people who would not repent and take his hand, but the countless others who longed for the love of his father and joined him became as numerous as the stars.


-END-

The Meaning:

The godly king one represents Christ, the King of all kings: God Himself inviting men to His home (Heaven) to be one with Him, and adopting them as sons of God. The angry man is in rebellion towards God and knows his own selfishness and stubbornness. He persists to do things his way and dies because he did not believe God that “the road to destruction is wide.” Instead, this person believed what others people said and even believed wrongly or incorrectly about God. The second man is someone who is familiar with God but never knew Him intimately. He wants to join God, but is led astray by the world and his own sinful desires. The third is one who is in continual search for God, but has worn himself out by trying to do much of his rightful journey by his own strength. He begins towards destruction, but his childlike faith, given him by the Holy Spirit causes him to heed (trust and obey) the word of the Lord instead. The wicked city burning to the ground represents “the place of weeping and gnashing of teeth” that Jesus calls Hell or Hades. The two men made their choice and the righteous man his as well. What will yours be? Proverbs of Solomon: There is a way that seems right to a man, but in the end leads to death: Many are the plans of a man’s heart, but the will of God prevails:Trust in the LORD with all your heart, lean not on your own understanding, in all your ways acknowledged Him and He will direct your paths. Also, Isaiah prophesied, “there is not one person righteous, we have all like sheep, gone astray to our own wicked ways.”-

The Birds and the Bees: What’s Up With That? A Sex Life vs. Life-Sex:

Theme verses: Galation 5:16 “So I tell you: Live by following the Spirit. Then you will not do what your sinful selves want.17 Our sinful selves want what is against the Spirit, and the Spirit wants what is against our sinful selves. The two are against each other, so you cannot do just what you please.18 But if the Spirit is leading you, you are not under the law. 19 The wrong things the sinful self does are clear: being sexually unfaithful, not being pure, taking part in sexual sins,20 worshiping gods, doing witchcraft, hating, making trouble, being jealous, being angry, being selfish, making people angry with each other, causing divisions among people,21 feeling envy, being drunk, having wild and wasteful parties, and doing other things like these. I warn you now as I warned you before: Those who do these things will not inherit God's kingdom.22 But the Spirit produces the fruit of love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness,23 gentleness, self-control. There is no law that says these things are wrong.24 Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified their own sinful selves. They have given up their old selfish feelings and the evil things they wanted to do.25 We get our new life from the Spirit, so we should follow the Spirit.26 We must not be proud or make trouble with each other or be jealous of each other.”


The Birds and the Bees:
What’s Up With That?
Sex Life vs. Life Sex:

I remember when I was in fifth grade and a nurse came into our homeroom to teach us sexual- education. She told all the girls that, depending on their ovulation cycles, every time they have unprotected sex, they have of chance of becoming pregnant. I didn’t really understand the cycles of the female body at that time, being of the male gender. However, I did understand what the nurse, as well as my parents, were trying to say. They made it clear to me that sex is not only for fun, it’s for making babies too.

Why am stating the obvious? Well, as I grew older and more exposed to the world around me, pop culture seemed to bombard us with a very different message from what we were taught about the “birds and the bees.” Television, magazines, and most films conveyed the idea of “sex for pleasure” as more significant than sex for reproduction. Where is the balance. I’d see countless episodes of TV dramas and movies with scenarios such as this: a man is at a party and suddenly notices a dazzling young beauty from across the room. They make eye contact and instantly the viewer is taken to a bedroom scene. The two strangers are now having sexual intercourse without even learning each other’s names. Finally, they spend the rest of the movie getting to know one another, and possibly falling in and out of love, several times. So, according to holly-wood, are we actually supposed to think that romance comes with, sex first, than a relationship, and eventually, marriage.... maybe. Adults can be such hypocrites! Didn’t the little girls in your town sing, “Ken and Barbie, sitting in a tree, K-I-S-S-I-N-G. FIRST COMES LOVE, THEN COME MARRIAGE, THEN COME KENNY IN THE BABY CARRIAGE. When did sex become more like a handshake, instead of an intimate and private thing between a man and his wife, or Mommy and Daddy?

I was just as stunned as you. Between birth control, abortion, and the mass media, I wouldn’t be surprised if some kids today are more confused than I was. Birth control and contraceptives introduced what many call “safe sex.” I was under the impression that abstinence and a monogamous relationship was the safest way for a healthy sexual relationship to be nurtured. Some view me as old-fashioned in this regard. Whatever you believe about birth control, that is not my concern. I am not against contraceptives, I just think that they are a privilege, and in a face paced society, privileges can be abused and perverted. Perhaps, the pleasure and simplicity of sex has been overexposed or exploited and most definitely, overemphasized in this culture. For example: have you ever heard someone say, “I had know idea I was going to get pregnant?” Was it really that unexpected? I understand that they were using birth control, and weren't planning on it, but are some people actually forgetting that large amounts of sexual activity actually promotes reproduction and may increase the chances of pregnancies?
I believe that history shows us that cultures in every major time-frame have struggled with these types of issues with sexuality. So, I’m not shocked at what I see in American culture. Rather, I’m shocked that people are so forgetful of the facts of life.
When did we forget that reproduction comes from either having sex at the right time or having lot‘s of it for long periods of time, and that “Sex CAN equal reproduction.” It’s not just for our enjoyment, but for creating families and furthering the human race and the Kingdom of God as well. We all know what a “sex life” is, but many fail to grasp what I refer to as “life sex” or a monogamous sexual relationship with one life-long and exclusive partner in order to create the potential of a family unit. Hmmm... sounds like marriage? Maybe some in the culture don’t want us to think of sex as something responsible and mature people do. If pleasure has consequences, than one might have to be careful and exercise self-control. Without meaningless pleasure and countless sex partners, might some people get bored? No, they would then be forced by their own consciences to seek purpose in life, instead of the constant pursuit of pleasure and good feelings. Also, they would have to hold themselves accountable. However, this would require divine intervention, and possibly values and conviction. Honestly though, how many of those in the mass media and worldly culture do you know that are ready to have convictions about things like self-control? They traditionally have convictions about issues like the environment and civil rights, but not about self-control and patience. For example: Hollywood would not be a billion dollar industry if their viewers had more self control. If people shut off the television and experienced more of real life while sitting at home, and spent money on more valuable things than cable and pay per view, it would be broke.. I don’t know, but I will personally continue to encourage “life sex” and discourage multiple partners and sexual promiscuity. How about you? When in doubt Jesus said “ a tree is known by it’s fruit.” Let’s ask the Holy Spirit for the fruits that He has for us like love, longsuffering , patience and self control… to name a few.-

CAN and DO I LOVE GOD? Part 1

CAN and DO I LOVE GOD?

Many of Christians have spoken with countless friends, family members and strangers of the deep things of God, the details of faith , and even of hypocrisy and that which wages war against Him. Some of those conversations were merely debates or arguments, while some, reaping much joy, were Holy Spirit inspired and definably Divine Moments or Appointments of what is referred to as Divine Intervention. Millions of people talk about God and sometimes those conversations actually help people grow closer to Him. Whether believer or heathen, spiritually mature or not, seeker or skeptic, devout or foolish: Don’t you wonder certain things about Him. Like “Is God is like us? Does He love? Does He bleed? Does He know what it’s like to die?” Well, Judeo-Christians have taught for two thousand years that the answer is “Yes.” However, I have another question that many skeptics, seekers and believers, even some more mature ones, think about, whether they have not voiced it with words or not. The question is not if God can love “me,” but if “I” can love God. You may have heard the message and Good News of Jesus Christ, that God loves you (John 3:16) but does it work both ways? So, can you love God? I know that masses of people can name at least one person in their life whom they claim to “love,” but are you able to love Him in the same manner as you love others or in a higher fashion, if that is truly possible? God should be easy to love, right? I think He is, but do you? Are you entranced by His majesty, beauty, strength, wisdom, splendor and character? I find Him irresistible because I know Him. I know Him only from the fact that He first knew me, loved me, sought me out, and revealed Himself to me. In order to love God we must ask ourselves, “Is He worth loving?” and “Would He be effected by my love?” He has everything and is everything. So, would it even matter to Him if I said those three words for Him and really meant them? Yes…Yes and Yes, it would!

The Apostles John, who walked so closely with JESUS that he “leaned his head on His chest,” says that “God is Love (1 John).” Well, if He is love than loving Him should be simple. There is only one issue though, we are not the embodiment of love itself. We, aka the human race, have fallen from grace. “All have sane and fallen short of God’s glory.” Without getting too wrapped up in our sin and depravity lets remember what happened before all our troubles: “ and He made them male and female in His image, in the image of God He made them.” So, if God is Love itself or Himself, than the desire to love should be supernaturally engrained or deposited some how into the very nature of those made in His image. The ability needs awakened by the Holy Spirit through Jesus Christ, the lover of our souls, but I believe that He has already put at least the desire in our hearts. Some have fought it, “in the last day the love of men will grow cold,” Others have sown into it, “If I have but not love, than I am a resounded noise.”

It’s not the “love” characteristic of God that some people have issues with. Rather, as rebellious teenagers may resist the discipline of a parent who will not yield to their comprises, some avoid God like a criminal does the police. He is the ultimate JUDGE of all things said and done, and "will judge the living and the dead” (1 Peter). Though the full extent of His Judgment is not fulfilled or has completely come to pass, He has historically exercised some portions of His wrath. Read the Old Testament and there are many examples. I have heard some say that these instances are what they have trouble with in regards to knowing God. They say, “how can a loving God do that, like have someone killed or cursed?” Well, He alone (Father, Son and Holy Spirit) qualifies as judge because He is perfect and Holy. He tells us to “Hate evil and love good ” (Romans 12:9, Amos 5:15, Psalm 97:10) for He is obligated by His own character to do just that. We need this Character impregnated in us otherwise we may yield to the sinful nature which entices us to revert to “survival mode” and focus on self preservation and selfishness. God unlike us, enjoys being Holy and above all. He reviles evil and makes all things work out for good, whether instantly or in His time. While on His first earthly ministry Jesus exemplified this truth. When the poor and the things of God were exploited He acted without much hesitation. He kicked the money changers out of the Temple. Though He cleansed the temple 3 times, He was there many other times without doing cleansing it. Even so, He eventually could no longer stand by a watch evil persist. God has his buttons and they are being pressed or pushed daily. However, he sees things through an eternal perspective where one day He will respond is such strength towards the evils that mock His Holiness and oppress the innocent in such ways that they will be utterly destroyed,. After this time Jesus said that “I will “make all things new” and that God will wipe away all the tears from their eyes of His children.



When I was 16 years old I was in a Youth group Sunday school service I where I observed a video with speaker, pastor, author and socialogist Tony Campolo. He said, “you can believe are the right stuff and not LOVE JESUS!” Ten years later a friend told me one day “ I just don’t feel like playing this good Christian thing anymore… saying God Bless you and not telling people what I really feel.” I responded with many words but first, told “Good. Now that you honest with God He can build upward from there.” You see it wasn’t about my friend pretending to a good Christian to make some of the other, possibly more legalistic Christians around him happy with him. It’s if he LOVE’S JESUS! He had a history of drugs and promiscuity, and needed to give that up to God not only because it was the right thing to do and he rightfully felt convicted over it, but because he loved Jesus. While writing this I have come to the understanding that my next conversation with him should be about this truth. When I was 18 an old friend of mine with a slight catholic upbringing had become involve with new age belief and witchcraft. When sometimes talked about Christ he admitted, “Yeagh, Jesus is different though.” He was saying that there was something about Jesus that was mysterious, right and attractive. So, why didn’t he embrace Jesus with all his might? I don’t know. I hope he has now. He desparately wanted to follow and probably new that God loved Him so much that He sent his son to die, but my friend didn’t know how to love Jesus for some reason, at least not yet





LOVE AND JUSTICE COEXISTING
Remember I told about 1 John 4 "God is Love." many people have trouble understanding Him as love as well as Holy and Just all at once. So, let me explain how Christ reconciles the perfect Holiness of God (He must to uphold righteousness and justice by nature and His character makes Him forever true to His Word and Holy standards) Well, how then do Grace and Wrath fit in the same plan? God must uphold Justice and "the wages ( consequence or punishment) of sin is death (romans 3)" and in the same chapter "all have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God." Now, if God must remain Holy and perfect and be the perfect Judge that His is, and you wouldn't want it any other way, than He has to punish sin. We as finite beings and sinners may ask "is that fair?" Yes, it is what we all deserve, no matter how nice a person seems, sin is still present.... that's why Jesus came. And you and I know that Jesus had to have chosen to come for lots of reasons.
If people don't want God to punish sin than Holiness and true Justice would not be exercised, and what would Jesus have died for? Jesus' death paid the "wages of sin" for "those who believe (john 1:12 and 3:16)" So, his love and mercy created a bridge to justice and wrath. For those who believe, God poured out the wrath and punishment that we earned unto Christ on the cross . Jesus' sacrifice satisfies true and fair justice, because OUR sin, for those who accept it, has been paid for, we are covered by the precious Blood of The Lamb who was slain before the foundation of the world. Those who reject God's act and extension of divine love, grace and mercy, may say "I'll take my chances, or maybe He'll let me off the hook?" and still have to pay for the "wages" that they have earned by sinning over an over. Jesus offers them the chance for Him to pay their debt for them and some people refuse, thinking “if my good wages (deeds and their consequential actions) out weigh my bad ones than maybe that will be enough?" But as long as sin is still unaccounted for (by God who knows all), than the one who committed the sins will be held accountable for them unless they can pay or someone else (namely JESUS) can pay it for them.
Some people think they may think that this life gives them enough time to do enough good works to get by, but the law of God demands and requires perfection which only comes from Him any way. If we try to obtain perfection some other way we would “fall short” like Romans 3 says. Jesus said in the gospels that every “word" and "a man's works" will be judged according to what a person has done. Its more than fair, for God has given us an opportunity to receive a redemption that even angels don not get. AND His also gave us Himself, His Son, God in the Flesh. He came and dwelt among us (John 1). So, if God dies for us than that is above and beyond what a limited sense of justice like ours would obligate Him to do. His Mercy is so great because he didn't have to do all that just for us, He had the power and the right to destroy us all. And remember that God is Life itself and separation from Him, or Life, is death. than death is what we deserve, separation from Him, which is what hell truly is, I chose Christ I chose Life, you see? Any way, you may have heard this but I know that God's wrath is hard to understand sometimes, I just wanted to assure you that the God who has"lavished His love on us (Paul said)" is the same God who "will judge the living and the dead (1 peter)"AND that this is a good and marvelous truth that God can be both LOVE and JUSTICE all at once.

Praise God, Amen!! thanks for reading with and open heart. love you - B

Its like this, God is the Judge and Love as well. Let's Imagine a court room, maybe the Judge
(played by GOD) would be examining this case. The accuser (the devil) could say, “Your Honor, in the case of “the Law versus “mankind”, you have admitted to the whole human race, as recorded in their own texts, that “all like sheep have gone astray (Book of Isaiah)” and giving them your own Holy Law stating, “Chose this day... life or death (Exodus and Deuteronomy).” Therefore you're own words condemn them. Should you not correct this matter? than let the defendants be sentenced immediately.” And then the Defense counsel (Jesus) who is also the prosecution ( He would be the only one qualified for both positions) could say, “Your honor, Father, I do not need to remind this court of the agreement we had before the foundation of the world and the creation of mankind.” The judge could reply, “What I have done, I have done. All have sinned and fallen short of my Glory and the wages of (their) sin is death. Since, my glory has been dishonored and evil has taken place because of this sin, the price of death must be paid that My Law may be upheld in perfect justice.” So, maybe the Judge sends a summons letter, a copy of the law and explanations thereof (all 3 are in the Bible) to those who represent the whole human race (Prophets and Apostles). And part of the letter could say something like this, “Because of your deeds and disregard for the law a sentencing must commence-but your Advocate (lawyer) and I have come to an agreement that fulfills the law to the fullest degree, and still gives each of you a chance to pay for the damages that you have done according to your works... we have decided that you have exactly one lifetime or how ever long you live, to find someone else to pay this debt for you, since you are unable. He must be blameless and without sin, and worthy of the highest honor and praise in order to withstand death (the punishment) and my wrath. I am pleased to announce to the defendants, that the defense counsel Himself, Jesus Christ my own Son, has offered to pay these damages for you in accordance with the terms of the law. He has appeased my Holy anger and satisfied my jealous and compassionate love for you by willingly shedding His own blood unto death for each of you and rising again unto glory So, do you accept His offer and come into agreement with my only Son and I?” Now, God is really a Judge and Jesus is our real Advocate and doesn't this scenario sound somewhat similar to the Bible?

By Grace We Stand Bible Study Blog

By Grace We Stand Bible Study Blog

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"Judge rightly," Quotes to be examined.

Luke 6:³⁶Be merciful, just as your Father is merciful. ³⁷"Do not judge, and you will not be judged. Do not condemn, and you will not be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven. ³⁸Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you."

Matthew 7 ¹"Do not judge, or you too will be judged. ²For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you. ³"Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother's eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye?

Luke 12:⁵⁶Hypocrites! You know how to interpret the appearance of the earth and the sky. How is it that you don't know how to interpret this present time? ⁵⁷"Why don't you judge for yourselves what is right? ⁵⁸ As you are going with your adversary to the magistrate, try hard to be reconciled to him on the way, or he may drag you off to the judge, and the judge turn you over to the officer, and the officer throw you into prison. "

"God loves you just the way you are" and "follow your heart and you can't go wrong?"

God does love us just the way we are, that's why He won't let us stay that way! Jesus said that murder, adultery and all kinds of evil come out of the heart of man and (the prophet Jeremiah states that the heart is wicked, THATS ONE REASON WHY JESUS FOCUSED SOME MUCH ON HEART MATTERS. Some use these phrases to excuse behavior but JESUS' DEATH is in response to that of 'original sin,' ( being born with the sin of Adam( the first man) and inherently sinners ourselves). the Bible teaches that we are born with sin in our veins and we all do it knowingly one way or another sometime in our life (knowingly refers to any age we become aware and accountable for of thoughts and actions)

So, this means that God formed you like a master potter with His clay and when the water of the Holy Spirit covers you (the clay vessel) (Paul references clay vessels) than you become softened up to be continually formed and molded be God's hands. You see, His love for you employs Him to want to change you with your sinfulness. If we are born into sin than even genes can be effected in some cases: for example like if your father was an alcoholic than you might be to, or some flippiently say that homorns in the water can cause people to be born gay (I don't believe this), and thus they say "God loves you just the way you are" and "follow your heart and you can't go wrong." BUT if God is freeing us from the sin we are born with than whether you are born an sinner who struggles with lieing/ cheating/stealing/ whatever, or a sinner who is born alcoholic, or even if one could be born gay, we are still sinners by nature and need Jesus and the transformation of being born again/ the gentle and truthful Potter's hand. (being born with sin means we need reborn or born again of the Holy Spirit with a new nature in us that fights against the sinful nature (read paul's writings on Spirit vs flesh). I realize that being born with something like alcoholism or even if one could be born gay, would a struggle in that of itself, but That's what DIVINE INTERVENTION is available for. The potter is readily available to all whose pottery is cracked, broken or mishapened. You see, God did make you, but He is also continually 'making' you, it's still in process. Who will you become when this life is over.

"Judge not"- heart vs actions, actions vs intentions

Jesus said "judge not lest ye be judged. Whatever measure you have given will be given unto you."

Wow that is big!! Admitingly, many people use that verse as an excuse, like I was saying before, as if people shouldn't judge anything at all. Well, Jesus also told the Pharisees to "Just rightly" or "judge for yourselves what is right". So, He still wants us to judge between right and wrong. "God weighs the heart (psalms)" and "you desire truth in the inmost parts (psalm 51)." Jesus is saying also saying not to judge the heart for we don't know on our own people's thoughts and intentions except by Divine revelation (gifts of the Holy Spirit, example: gifts of prophecy like a 'word of knowlege,' (1 corinth and Ephesions). God judges the heart and He is the ultimate Judge of all things. If we think we know it all than we are mistaken, ( james chap 1 , if any of you lack wisdom ask God who give liberally with out question) We all need more wisdom in judging what is right and making right judgments, and we need not make excuses either (romans 2)

Romans 2 God's Righteous Judgment

¹You, therefore, have no excuse, you who pass judgment on someone else, for at whatever point you judge the other, you are condemning yourself, because you who pass judgment do the same things. ²Now we know that God's judgment against those who do such things is based on truth. ³So when you, a mere man, pass judgment on them and yet do the same things, do you think you will escape God's judgment? ⁴Or do you show contempt for the riches of his kindness, tolerance and patience, not realizing that God's kindness leads you toward repentance?

⁵But because of your stubbornness and your unrepentant heart, you are storing up wrath against yourself for the day of God's wrath, when his righteous judgment will be revealed. ⁶God "will give to each person according to what he has done."^a]">[a] ⁷To those who by persistence in doing good seek glory, honor and immortality, he will give eternal life. ⁸But for those who are self-seeking and who reject the truth and follow evil, there will be wrath and anger. ⁹There will be trouble and distress for every human being who does evil: first for the Jew, then for the Gentile; ¹⁰but glory, honor and peace for everyone who does good: first for the Jew, then for the Gentile. ¹¹For God does not show favoritism.

1 Corinthians 6:1Lawsuits Among Believers

¹If any of you has a dispute with another, dare he take it before the ungodly for judgment instead of before the saints? ²Do you not know that the saints will judge the world? And if you are to judge the world, are you not competent to judge trivial cases? ³Do you not know that we will judge angels? How much more the things of this life!


note: This life is where we learn to judge before we did it in the next.


1 Corinthians 5:12"What business is it of mine to judge those outside the church? Are you not to judge those inside?

1 Corinthians 5:13 God will judge those outside. "Expel the wicked man from among you."

Note: How can I judge or in this context, "hold accountable" people who embrace the sinful nature, are there not captive to it. Than how can I say to an alcoholic or pro-choicer "stop" so hastily, if i don't first offer them the Holy Spirit who overcomes the sinful nature? then once one is born again apart from the inhereted sinful flesh, they can seek God's counsel to began to judge rightly and against their fleshly lusts

HERE IS MORE FOR FURTHER STUDY TO DECIDE FOR YOURSELVES
THESE WILL AS JESUS' WORDS DO, BLOW YOUR MIND and that's the point.

Romans 12" be no conformed to this world but transformed by the renewing of your mind"

wwww.biblegateway.com

1. Romans 2:1
   [ God's Righteous Judgment ] You, therefore, have no excuse, you who pass judgment on someone else, for at whatever point you judge the other, you are condemning yourself, because you who pass judgment do the same things.
   Romans 2:1-3 (in Context) Romans 2 (Whole Chapter)
2. Romans 2:12
   All who sin apart from the law will also perish apart from the law, and all who sin under the law will be judged by the law.
   Romans 2:11-13 (in Context) Romans 2 (Whole Chapter)
3. Romans 2:16
   This will take place on the day when God will judge men's secrets through Jesus Christ, as my gospel declares.
   Romans 2:15-17 (in Context) Romans 2 (Whole Chapter)
4. Romans 3:4
   Not at all! Let God be true, and every man a liar. As it is written: "So that you may be proved right when you speak and prevail when you judge."
   Romans 3:3-5 (in Context) Romans 3 (Whole Chapter)
5. Romans 3:6
   Certainly not! If that were so, how could God judge the world?
   Romans 3:5-7 (in Context) Romans 3 (Whole Chapter)
6. Romans 14:4
   Who are you to judge someone else's servant? To his own master he stands or falls. And he will stand, for the Lord is able to make him stand.
   Romans 14:3-5 (in Context) Romans 14 (Whole Chapter)
7. Romans 14:10
   You, then, why do you judge your brother? Or why do you look down on your brother? For we will all stand before God's judgment seat.
   Romans 14:9-11 (in Context) Romans 14 (Whole Chapter)
8. 1 Corinthians 4:3
   I care very little if I am judged by you or by any human court; indeed, I do not even judge myself.
   1 Corinthians 4:2-4 (in Context) 1 Corinthians 4 (Whole Chapter)
9. 1 Corinthians 4:4
   My conscience is clear, but that does not make me innocent. It is the Lord who judges me.
   1 Corinthians 4:3-5 (in Context) 1 Corinthians 4 (Whole Chapter)
10. 1 Corinthians 4:5
    Therefore judge nothing before the appointed time; wait till the Lord comes. He will bring to light what is hidden in darkness and will expose the motives of men's hearts. At that time each will receive his praise from God.
    1 Corinthians 4:4-6 (in Context) 1 Corinthians 4 (Whole Chapter)
11. 1 Corinthians 5:12
    What business is it of mine to judge those outside the church? Are you not to judge those inside?
    1 Corinthians 5:11-13 (in Context) 1 Corinthians 5 (Whole Chapter)
12. 1 Corinthians 5:13
    God will judge those outside. "Expel the wicked man from among you."
    1 Corinthians 5:12-13 (in Context) 1 Corinthians 5 (Whole Chapter)
13. 1 Corinthians 6:2
    Do you not know that the saints will judge the world? And if you are to judge the world, are you not competent to judge trivial cases?
    1 Corinthians 6:1-3 (in Context) 1 Corinthians 6 (Whole Chapter)
14. 1 Corinthians 6:3
    Do you not know that we will judge angels? How much more the things of this life!
    1 Corinthians 6:2-4 (in Context) 1 Corinthians 6 (Whole Chapter)
15. 1 Corinthians 6:4
    Therefore, if you have disputes about such matters, appoint as judges even men of little account in the church!
    1 Corinthians 6:3-5 (in Context) 1 Corinthians 6 (Whole Chapter)
16. 1 Corinthians 6:5
    I say this to shame you. Is it possible that there is nobody among you wise enough to judge a dispute between believers?
    1 Corinthians 6:4-6 (in Context) 1 Corinthians 6 (Whole Chapter)
17. 1 Corinthians 10:15
    I speak to sensible people; judge for yourselves what I say.
    1 Corinthians 10:14-16 (in Context) 1 Corinthians 10 (Whole Chapter)
18. 1 Corinthians 10:29
    the other man's conscience, I mean, not yours. For why should my freedom be judged by another's conscience?
    1 Corinthians 10:28-30 (in Context) 1 Corinthians 10 (Whole Chapter)
19. 1 Corinthians 11:13
    Judge for yourselves: Is it proper for a woman to pray to God with her head uncovered?
    1 Corinthians 11:12-14 (in Context) 1 Corinthians 11 (Whole Chapter)
20. 1 Corinthians 11:31
    But if we judged ourselves, we would not come under judgment.
    1 Corinthians 11:30-32 (in Context) 1 Corinthians 11 (Whole Chapter)
21. 1 Corinthians 11:32
    When we are judged by the Lord, we are being disciplined so that we will not be condemned with the world.
    1 Corinthians 11:31-33 (in Context) 1 Corinthians 11 (Whole Chapter)
22. 1 Corinthians 14:24
    But if an unbeliever or someone who does not understand comes in while everybody is prophesying, he will be convinced by all that he is a sinner and will be judged by all,
    1 Corinthians 14:23-25 (in Context) 1 Corinthians 14 (Whole Chapter)
23. Galatians 2:6
    As for those who seemed to be important—whatever they were makes no difference to me; God does not judge by external appearance—those men added nothing to my message.
    Galatians 2:5-7 (in Context) Galatians 2 (Whole Chapter)
24. Colossians 2:16
    Therefore do not let anyone judge you by what you eat or drink, or with regard to a religious festival, a New Moon celebration or a Sabbath day.
    Colossians 2:15-17 (in Context) Colossians 2 (Whole Chapter)
25. 2 Timothy 4:1
    In the presence of God and of Christ Jesus, who will judge the living and the dead, and in view of his appearing and his kingdom, I give you this charge:
    2 Timothy 4:1-3 (in Context) 2 Timothy 4 (Whole Chapter)

Stereotypes of christians in the West

Being the Brideof Christ and loving our enemies (as Christ taught):

I am praying that more Christians will take their place in the Spirit as of the Bride of Christ, who adorns herself with love and truth, justice and peace. Spreading that which she recieves freely from her redeemer and bridegroom, Jesus Christ the holy and annointed one King of Kings and Lord or Lords. -

Personally, I want to hear from Christians and nonbelievers on some things: I love that most of the time I meeting Christ followers from every walk of life, they are usually NOT "tomatoe-throwing- cross burning-abortion-clinic-bombers. " Those are usually extreme cases, not repesenting all of us. I am not in favor of homosexuality or abortion, but I don't cast stone s and tomotoes in my spare time and I have never been or known any one associated with a the "KKK." Don't get me wrong, most of us that I know, hold to the Word of God, which is God breathed (1 timothy), when it clearly states verses against homsexuality and verses that show God's presence and plan for people while still in the womb (psalm 139, jere 1). though some bible verses are explained more thouroughly with contextual and historical factors like, "the original audiance, who wrote it" and when was it written" but verses that agree in context with the Bible as a whole are usually not ment to be misinterpreted. Anyway, I am saying that "hate the sin not the sinner" and " let the one who is without sin cast the first stone. (john 8)" just because we don't excuse sinful lifestyles and choices, does not make us (the christians I know) "hate-monguls" or whatever. - I am letting Jesus cast the stone in His time, ofcourse with Sodom and Gomorroh is was more like a meteorite, and in John 8 (for that specific case) He chose to not stone the woman caught in adultery at all and said "go and leave your life of sin." So, like romans 12, Jesus is into transformation and repentance and forgiveness as a more effective way of dealing with sin than stoning. I know that in the end there will be judgment and wrath, but we are currently in a time of 'availible grace' from Jesus untill that Judgment comes. besides ,He did DIE for these things (transformation/ repentance/ forgiveness) to make that grace possible. Ok, He said that He is Truth (John 14). so, we do need to not comprimise. I am sending a reminder also that grace be amajor factor in lifestyle just as upholdinhg truth is. Being Spirit Filled and Spirit Led, like PAul says, is the only way to powerful and inwardly extend God's grace, foor we must recieve it first before we gave give it. "freely it is given freely receive" (Jesus) I think He wants a Bride who surley upholds Holiness and is full of grace. For "he came full of GRACE AND TRUTH (John 1)-


Stereo types:
Hmmmmm...
I wonder.... when did political and descriptive terms like "republican" , and "democrat" or even "conservative", "evangelical" and "liberal" become "dirty-words" for some people- have you ever been around someone and said one of these terms, like "evanngelical" and they began ranting on about all types of stereotypes and mixing opinions with facts while the vein in their forehead is about to burst.- what's up with that!




grace, God's grace, truth, gay, homosexuality, bride of christ, republican, conservative, free, give, wrath, christians, hate, sodom. gomorrah, sin,Jesus, bible, Spirit filled, Spirit, paul, Holy Spirit, King of Kings, love

The Word Of God in Question? Marriage and Faith Lessons from Genesis Chapter 3, The Fall of a Man Part 1: What happened, eh?

Context: Genesis chapters 1-3
Discussion Focus: Chapter 3
Edification and Purpose:
1)Strengthen faith in God's Word and character.
2) Encourage husbands and believers to...
-Lift up their family and friends in prayer
-Speak up and make their voices and opinions heard
- Stand up and stand firm for righteousness and against evil.

UNITY IN CHRIST PREVENTS DECEPTION

Man and Woman: They were made to walk and fight together, and were called not only 'good,' but “very good.” Each are unique in design but both are made in God's image.

Gen 1:25 “...and God saw that it was good. 26And God said, Let us make man in our image, after our likeness: and let them have dominion ... and over all the earth... 27So God created man in his own image, in the image of God created he him; male and female created he them. 28And God blessed them, and God said unto them, Be fruitful, and multiply, and replenish the earth, and subdue it: and have dominion... over every living thing that moves upon the earth. 29And God said, Behold, I have given you every herb bearing seed, which is upon the face of all the earth, and every tree, in the which is the fruit of a tree yielding seed; to you it shall be for meat... and it was so. 31And God saw every thing that he had made, and, behold, it was very good. And the evening and the morning were the sixth day.”

One Flesh:They were one flesh and had a shared potential. If one is weak in something, than the other is strong in that matter that both succeed together. Each are designed and called as “very good.” So, they were not ashamed of who they were in each other's presence.

Gen2:23 “And Adam said, This is now bone of my bones, and flesh of my flesh: she shall be called Woman, because she was taken out of Man. Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh. And they were both naked, the man and his wife, and were not ashamed.”

Truth VS Lies:

It's a matter of trust or faith...

-God had faith in Adam, but Adam did not return the favor. He knew that God was True to His Word and still sins anyway.

It's a matter of communication and Godly Instruction/ Stewardship...

-Eve may have had a misguided view of the command that God gave. (Perhaps, she had been taught improperly or maybe not). I wonder about this because she seems to maybe misquote God, “...do not even touch it or you will die...”

It's a matter of Integrity...

-Any entity, whether an individual or culture , that is caught in sin will challenge God's word and character.

-Their eyes may have been opened to some extent but their minds were currupted.

“Be not conformed to the world, but transformed by the renewing of your mind.” Romans 12.


DON'T BACK DOWN

The man (ADAM): placed in authority and had more experience and knowledge and is later held accountable for the fall. Adam had first-hand experiences of God's faithfulness to His word. Though Adam was not deceived, he sinned even when he knew it was wrong.

James 4:16 “As it is, you boast and brag. All such boasting is evil. Anyone, then, who knows the good he ought to do and doesn't do it, sins.”

1 Peter3:7 “Likewise, ye husbands, dwell with them according to knowledge, giving honor unto the wife, as unto the weaker vessel, and as being heirs together of the grace of life; that your prayers be not hindered.
“
Ephesians 5:25 “Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her to make her holy, cleansing her by the washing with water through the word, and to present her to himself as a radiant church, without stain or wrinkle or any other blemish, but holy and blameless.”

- Summary:
“Do the good you know that you should,” “honor those under your protection,” and “love your wife as Christ loved his bride and died for her...and wash her in the Word of God like he has.” If your not a husband, you must still protect, honor and wash with the Word those under your authority.

DON'T FIGHT ALONE

The woman (EVE): -an easier or more vulnerable target in this case, was not covered (or protected) and MAYBE EVEN not taught properly by the one in authority (i.e. - Adam) BUT we are not sure how she was or was not tought. Eve have was deceived and relied on the more experienced (Adam) to prevent deception.

I Tim 2:13 “For Adam was formed first, then Eve. And Adam was not the one deceived; it was the woman who was deceived and became a sinner. But women will be saved through childbearing—if they continue in faith, love and holiness with propriety.”

2 Corinthians 11:3 But I am afraid that just as Eve was deceived by the serpent's cunning, your minds may somehow be led astray from your sincere and pure devotion to Christ.”

Reemphasize: James 4:16, 1 Peter3:7, and Ephesians 5:25 for Husbands or persons in authority to TAKE ACTION. Paul said,“Actions speak louder than words.”

Genesis 2:18 “Then the LORD God said, "It is not good for the man to be alone; I will make him a helper (a)suitable for him."
(a )literally means - “corresponding to.”

May I suggest an alternate or contextual meaning may imply- “capable,” (to walk along side of him through life's journey). In order for her to truly be an equal and corresponding “help meet” she must have the potential for similar(i.e. - intelligence, etc) as well as unique functions (i.e. - childbirth and nursing, even different use of the brain, etc).

By design she is physically more delicate and graceful and therefore slightly weaker, but “Eve” was also given a more vulnerable role (submission and dependency). She was entrusted to Adam from the day her Father (GOD) gave her away. However, weaker is not worse.... or “less than.”


“Help-Meet” Does Not = “Help-less”

- Jesus submits to the Father whom He is in unity with... submission doesn't have to imply inferiority.

John 10:30 ”I and the Father are one."

John 5:19 “Jesus gave them this answer: "I tell you the truth, the Son can do nothing by himself; he can do only what he sees his Father doing, because whatever the Father does the Son also does.”

Phil 2:5 “Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus: Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God: But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men: And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross. Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name: That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth; And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

If Jesus was given authority over the church with one role, as well as being One with the Father and submits to the godly counsel of His Father in a simultaneous role, than it is a privilege to learn firsthand of our LORD's experiences through whatever role we are given (whether leading, submitting, or both).

Drop the attitude “gender warriors”-
“I can do anything you can do... better. I can do anything better than you.” - Music lyric



Believe and Obey HIS COMMANDS and Trust HIS WORD

- Jesus asks the same of us that God did in the beginning with Adam and Eve.

“Believe on the one God has sent.” John.

“If you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved.” Romans.

Luke11:28 “Blessed rather are those who hear the word of God and obey it.”

John 14:22 Then Judas (not Judas Iscariot) said, "But, Lord, why do you intend to show yourself to us and not to the world?"23Jesus replied, "If anyone loves me, he will obey my teaching. My Father will love him, and we will come to him and make our home with him. 24He who does not love me will not obey my teaching. These words you hear are not my own; they belong to the Father who sent me.”

Genesis 22:18 “Abraham...through your offspring all nations on earth will be blessed, because you have obeyed me.”

Exodus 19:4 “You yourselves have seen what I did to Egypt, and how I carried you on eagles' wings and brought you to myself. 5 Now if you obey me fully and keep my covenant, then out of all nations you will be my treasured possession. Although the whole earth is mine, 6 you will be for me a kingdom of priests and a holy nation.' These are the words you are to speak to the Israelites."

Trust and Obey for there is no other way to be happy in Jesus.” -Hymn Lyrics


In the words of Christ Jesus...
“Go and do likewise.”


Applications:

God = given of wisdom
God (your true strength) will strengthen you
in temptation and testing.
God's teaching sets you free if you heed the instruction.

Source: JAMES Chapter 1

2 My brothers and sisters, when you have many kinds of troubles, you should be full of joy, 3 because you know that these troubles test your faith, and this will give you patience.4 Let your patience show itself perfectly in what you do. Then you will be perfect and complete and will have everything you need. 5 But if any of you needs wisdom, you should ask God for it. He is generous to everyone and will give you wisdom without criticizing you. 6 But when you ask God, you must believe and not doubt. Anyone who doubts is like a wave in the sea, blown up and down by the wind.7-8 Such doubters are thinking two different things at the same time, and they cannot decide about anything they do. They should not think they will receive anything from the Lord....

12 When people are tempted and still continue strong, they should be happy. After they have proved their faith, God will reward them with life forever. God promised this to all those who love him.13 When people are tempted, they should not say, "God is tempting me." Evil cannot tempt God, and God himself does not tempt anyone.14 But people are tempted when their own evil desire leads them away and traps them.15 This desire leads to sin, and then the sin grows and brings death.

16 My dear brothers and sisters, do not be fooled about this.17 Every good action and every perfect gift is from God. These good gifts come down from the Creator of the sun, moon, and stars, who does not change like their shifting shadows.18 God decided to give us life through the word of truth so we might be the most important of all the things he made. 19 My dear brothers and sisters, always be willing to listen and slow to speak. Do not become angry easily,20 because anger will not help you live the right kind of life God wants.21 So put out of your life every evil thing and every kind of wrong. Then in gentleness accept God's teaching that is planted in your hearts, which can save you.

22 Do what God's teaching says; when you only listen and do nothing, you are fooling yourselves.23 Those who hear God's teaching and do nothing are like people who look at themselves in a mirror.24 They see their faces and then go away and quickly forget what they looked like.25 But the truly happy people are those who carefully study God's perfect law that makes people free, and they continue to study it. They do not forget what they heard, but they obey what God's teaching says. Those who do this will be made happy.