The Biblical Path of Life

Category: Picture with verse and blog

  • The Excellency of the Power of God

    “But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us.”
    2 Corinthians 4:7

    Paul had been called to be a light to the Gentile people, telling them of the Gospel message of Jesus. He wanted all to understand each person is a sinner (see Romans 3:23), and that all would die an eternal death unless they trusted in Jesus (see Romans 6:23). Paul understood the importance of teaching the truths of the Gospel message. “1. Therefore seeing we have this ministry, as we have received mercy, we faint not; 2. But have renounced the hidden things of dishonesty, not walking in craftiness, nor handling the word of God deceitfully; but by manifestation of the truth commending ourselves to every man’s conscience in the sight of God” (2 Corinthians 4:1-2).

    • Dishonesty means “shameful actions; disgraceful conduct; hidden things of shame; clandestine conduct of which disciples of Christ should be ashamed.”
    • Craftiness means “shrewd; unscrupulous; the employment of any or all means necessary to apprehend an end.” 
    • Handling the word of God deceitfully means “adulterating the word of the gospel (and its instructions of men in religion) with the notion of unjust lucre, gain or profit.” 
    • Manifestation means “to make visible or observable.” 

    Paul was not dishonest, crafty, or deceitful in the way he taught the Gospel or doctrines of Jesus. Instead, he made it not only visible in his life but also observable in his lifestyle. That is to be the conscience effort of each Christian – to tell others simply and honestly, without any trickery, about Jesus. However, more than that, we are to “flesh” it out – live it daily. So that all can see what God can, and will do, through Christian’s lives. Remember Jesus’ final instructions before he ascended into heaven: to be witnesses to the uttermost part of the earth (see Acts 1:8). Each Christian is responsible to share the Gospel message of Jesus.

    Paul continued. “3. But if our gospel be hid, it is hid to them that are lost: 4. In whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them” (2 Corinthians 4:3-4). Paul had not failed to tell others consistently about Jesus, so if they did not receive or understand the Gospel message it was because “the god of this world” (which is Satan) hid it from them. Remember how many had rejected Jesus – who declared to all, that He is the Light of the World. “19. And this is the condemnation, that light is come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil. 20. For every one that doeth evil hateth the light, neither cometh to the light, lest his deeds should be reproved” (John 3:19-20). Most people find it easier to believe a lie (remember Satan is the father of lies, see John 8:44), instead of the truth.

    Paul understood the heart of the message. “5. For we preach not ourselves, but Christ Jesus the Lord; and ourselves your servants for Jesus’ sake. 6. For God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ” (2 Corinthians 4:5-6). Only God can convict the heart of sin. Only Jesus can save. “But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us” (2 Corinthians 4:7). Earthen vessels means “the human body as formed of clay and this feeble and frail.” Paul understood that it was not in his frail, human, body that the ability to save was given, but it is in the power of God alone. Yet God used Paul in his frailty to accomplish God’s plan.

    Is it difficult to allow God to use one to accomplish His plan? Paul declared that with every part of his being, he lived a life that revealed Jesus to any who saw him (see 2 Corinthians 4:8-11). But with that came much persecution and troubles on every side. Nevertheless, Paul understood the importance of putting his own flesh to death and living in the Spirit. “So then death worketh in us, but life in you” (2 Corinthians 4:12). Because Paul followed God’s will, not living for himself, others could see Jesus, which allowed them the opportunity to choose life eternal.

    Jesus is always the best example to follow. “Jesus saith unto them, My meat is to do the will of him that sent me, and to finish his work” (John 4:34). Meat means “denotes sustenance; nourishment.” Jesus understood that pleasing God, doing the work He has for one, is very important – even life sustaining. We are to follow Jesus’ example. Christians are not to do what we want, but what God wants us to do. Jesus completed everything God wanted Him to do (see John 19:30).

    Have you allowed God to use you, in your frailty, to accomplish His plan for you as you share the Gospel message?

    How to be Saved

  • Jesus, the Only Salvation

    “Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved.”
    Acts 4:12

    Paul heard of some troubles in the church at Corinth. He then wrote a letter to the Corinthians (the book of 1 Corinthians in the New Testament Bible). He addressed them as the fellow Christians, saved by grace, which they were. He also wanted to remind them of something. “God is faithful, by whom ye were called unto the fellowship of his Son Jesus Christ our Lord” (1 Corinthians 1:9). No matter what problems Christians may have, God is faithful to those who are called by Him.

    Paul had heard of the factions and discord that was troubling the church at Corinth. “Now I beseech you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye all speak the same thing, and that there be no divisions among you; but that ye be perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgment” (1 Corinthians 1:10). It was not good to have factions or discord in the church. These had caused contentions in the church. The first problem Paul addressed concerned the Believers who had been saved under different leaders ministries. They were making an issue out of something that should not have been a cause for division. “12. Now this I say, that every one of you saith, I am of Paul; and I of Apollos; and I of Cephas; and I of Christ. 13. Is Christ divided? was Paul crucified for you? or were ye baptized in the name of Paul?” (1 Corinthians 1:12-13). Can you readily recognize the problem Paul pointed out? The people were choosing to follow a man instead of God. They were divided because some had been saved under the teaching of Paul, some under the teaching of Apollos, and even some of them under the teaching of Peter (Cephas). Only one group was correct – the group that declared, “and I of Christ.” All, who are Believers, are saved by Jesus Christ. “10. Be it known unto you all, and to all the people of Israel, that by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom ye crucified, whom God raised from the dead …12. Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved” (Acts 4:10, 12).

     The Believers in Corinth had neglected the foundational truth Paul (and even Apollos and Peter) had taught – “the grace of God which is given you by Jesus Christ” (1 Corinthians 1:4). It was not by the preacher or teacher that one was saved, it was by the Gospel message of Jesus. The people had forgotten that salvation (deliverance from the penalty of sin) was only through Jesus, and instead they were fighting amongst themselves over their favorite teacher, emphasizing the one who had baptized them. This caused divisions. There was to be unity. For when the people were divided, they did not do what they were supposed to do. Because they were so busy fighting, they were not growing in their Christian life. The people were not reaching out, teaching people about Jesus. Not only that, but they were to teach the new Believers how to live that new life in Christ. These things were to be the primary functions of the church.

    The people in the church at Corinth had turned the focus from the Gospel message of Jesus to the baptism by one of God’s servants. Paul dealt with this issue. “17. For Christ sent me not to baptize, but to preach the gospel: not with wisdom of words, lest the cross of Christ should be made of none effect. 18. For the preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness; but unto us which are saved it is the power of God” (1 Corinthians 1:17-18).

    Paul wanted to remind the people of something important: it was not the messenger who presented the Gospel message that was to be remembered (“not with wisdom of words”), but it was the message that was to be remembered. Paul taught Jesus in simple language that anyone could understand. By the world’s standards (“to them that perish”), this is foolish, for the better the orator, the more likely people will be enticed to do as the speaker teaches. Nevertheless, Paul wanted them to understand this is not the way to bring someone to Christ. For when people are saved, it is not the great speaker, but “it is the power of God.” Only God has the ability to save souls. “For after that in the wisdom of God the world by wisdom knew not God, it pleased God by the foolishness of preaching to save them that believe” (1 Corinthians 1:21). God does not operate by the world’s wisdom. God chose to use people to declare the Gospel message to other people, introducing them to the only way to be saved. “Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me” (John 14:6). The Gospel message of Jesus is the only way in which one can be saved.    

    Have you chosen to follow man instead of God?

    Or

    Are you growing in your Christian life and telling others about Jesus?

  • Jesus: The Power of God unto Salvation

    “For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek”
    Romans 1:16

    Paul was not ashamed of the Gospel of Christ. He wanted the people to hear the Gospel message of Christ. “For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek” (Romans 1:16). Paul wanted people to understand some important truths of the Gospel of Christ, which is the only means of eternal salvation. Salvation means “deliverance from sin and its spiritual consequences, and involving an attachment to the body of Christ (the church), and eternal life in the kingdom of Christ.” Paul was not ashamed to tell anyone what Jesus could do for them. Paul wanted people to understand the ability to be delivered from sin. It was important they heard the truth. It is then an individual must decide what to do with that truth (the Gospel message that salvation is only through Jesus). It is a choice to believe it, or reject it.

    Paul explained to the people of sin, and then proceeded to teach them why they needed “salvation” that comes only from Jesus. “21. Because that, when they knew God, they glorified him not as God, neither were thankful; but became vain in their imaginations, and their foolish heart was darkened. 22. Professing themselves to be wise, they became fools” (Romans 1:21-22). God had revealed Himself to mankind, but they did not give Him the glory and honor He deserved. Many did not fully understand the separation of sinful man from God. They did not believe what God had revealed to them, instead, “Professing themselves to be wise, they became fools.” The next verses (in Romans chapter one) tell how the people were foolish by not recognizing God as the Creator, but instead change Him into a corruptible image. They rejected God. Therefore, when man rejected God, “God also gave them up to uncleanness” (see Romans 1:24) allowing mankind to be just what they are – sinful creatures. Once this happens, mankind often chooses to live a depraved lifestyle. Understand: God does not make anyone do anything, but God wants all of mankind to choose to turn from sin and accept the free gift of salvation that He offers.

      Nevertheless, just because God does not make mankind do anything (as in choosing to believe in God and accept his gift of salvation), He does require man to be accountable for his deeds. “6. Who will render to every man according to his deeds: 7. To them who by patient continuance in well doing seek for glory and honour and immortality, eternal life: 8. But unto them that are contentious, and do not obey the truth, but obey unrighteousness, indignation and wrath … 11. For there is no respect of persons with God” (Romans 2:6-11). Therefore, we understand that man without Jesus is exceedingly wicked. “For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God” (Romans 3:23). Moreover, there is a penalty: God will “render to every man according to his deeds.”

    One must understand that without the Law found in the Old Testament, man did not fully understand their lost condition or their need of salvation. “Therefore by the deeds of the law there shall no flesh be justified in his sight: for by the law is the knowledge of sin” (Romans 3:20). See that the law revealed that man is sinful. Then one can understand the importance of salvation that is only available through the Saviour, Jesus. “Wherefore the law was our schoolmaster to bring us unto Christ, that we might be justified by faith” (Galatians 3:24). Once one recognizes that he or she is a sinful man who stands before a Holy God, a choice must be made. To continue in that sin, or ask God to take that sin away.

    How did God plan for that sin to be taken away – enabling man to stand justified before God? See the following verse: “Being justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus” (Romans 3:24). Justified means “the justification bestowed by God upon men through Christ, through the instrumentality of faith.” Because of what Jesus did upon the cross (took the penalty of sin), see what Paul revealed. “Therefore we conclude that a man is justified by faith without the deeds of the law” (Romans 3:28). The law only revealed sin; it could not take away man’s sin. Faith, in what Jesus did to take away that sin, is the only thing that justifies man before God. Only those who believe God and his gift of salvation will gain eternal life. It is a choice. Continue in sin, or believe Jesus will take that sin away.

    Remember that when Jesus came, God made salvation available to anyone. “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life” John 3:16). Whosoever believeth.

    Is your foolish heart darkened, professing yourself to be wise, becoming a fool?

    Or

    Have you believed, by faith, in what Jesus did upon the cross to take away your sin?

    How to be Saved

  • A Religion, or a Relationship?

    “Having the understanding darkened, being alienated from the life of God through the ignorance that is in them, because of the blindness of their heart.”
    Ephesians 4:18

    A religious practice had so engrained itself into the Israelites during the New Testament times that the people no longer realized they were to look for their Messiah: for their hearts had become hardened. When Jesus came and died to set them free from their religious system, restoring the relationship with God, they rejected Him. The religious Jews had their understanding darkened – they just did not get it. See this explained in the following verse. “Having the understanding darkened, being alienated from the life of God through the ignorance that is in them, because of the blindness of their heart” (Ephesians 4:18). Blindness means “callousness or hardness.” Paul was a Pharisee, a part of that religious system. He had been instructed in the Old Testament, and declared that, “after the most straitest sect of our religion I lived a Pharisee” (Acts 26:5). He not only knew the Old Testament Scriptures, but he lived by them. He was very religious. However, when Jesus called him, Paul listened to, and obeyed, that call. It was then that Paul understood that he had been living in darkness. He saw the Light, Jesus, and believed. He then had a great burden to tell the religious, Jewish people who were living in darkness and help them understand that Jesus was the only way to remove the “blindness of their heart.” Paul became a missionary in the New Testament times, wanting to declare the truth of Jesus to those religious, Jewish people. When he entered a city, he migrated toward the Jews and their Synagogues where he taught them Jesus from their Old Testament Scriptures. Some believed, but overall the Jewish people rejected the message. So much so that many times these religious Jews tried to kill Paul. When Paul was rejected repeatedly, he declared that he would take the Gospel message to the Gentiles “Be it known therefore unto you, that the salvation of God is sent unto the Gentiles, and that they will hear it” (Acts 28:28). There was a dynamic shift.

    The Gentiles have predominately received the Gospel Message since that time. However, one cannot help but recognize that today, not many Gentile people are willing to receive the Gospel Message of Jesus. One can understand that there is a sort of darkness that has come upon the world as a religious system of “Christianity” has taken precedence within the world today. Many who claim the name of “Christian” today have a religion, not a relationship with Jesus Christ. Paul could see this happening in the newly established church in his day. “Having the understanding darkened, being alienated from the life of God through the ignorance that is in them, because of the blindness of their heart” (Ephesians 4:18). Blindness means “callousness or hardness.” Just as the Jews had their religious system, many churches have established their own “religious system.” This leads to people believing in a “church” or “religious acts” (such as baptism, attending church, doing good deeds, loving others, or a recognition of God, etc.). Above all, one must actually hear the call of repentance of sin (repent means “to think differently; a change of mind demanding a change of action”), and then turn to Jesus who is the “Salvation of God” (Acts 28:28). One’s heart must be enlightened by the Light, Jesus: “Then spake Jesus again unto them, saying, I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life” (John 8:12).

    How can one’sheart be enlightened today? “8. But what saith it? The word is nigh thee, even in thy mouth, and in thy heart: that is, the word of faith, which we preach; 9. That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. 10. For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation” (Romans 10:8-10). One must have a personal, life-changing encounter with Jesus. Without Jesus, one has a religion. A religion is a cheap copy of the real thing. It would be a tragedy for anyone to have attended church, followed the religious instructions of what to do to live as a “Christian,” yet to never really know what a true Christian life is. Paul recognized that many Jews in his day had a religion. He then understood what Isaiah had written and quoted it. “26. Saying, Go unto this people, and say, Hearing ye shall hear, and shall not understand; and seeing ye shall see, and not perceive: 27. For the heart of this people is waxed gross, and their ears are dull of hearing, and their eyes have they closed; lest they should see with their eyes, and hear with their ears, and understand with their heart, and should be converted, and I should heal them” (Acts 28:26-27).

    Have we come full circle? Do the people today hear, and not understand? Do they see, yet not perceive? Have the hearts of the people “waxed gross” and become “dull of hearing?” Have the religious people in the churches today closed their eyes, lest they be converted? Why has this happened? “In whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them” (2 Corinthians 4:4). Without a change of heart that receives Jesus, one cannot become a true Christian.

    Do you have a religion?

    Or

    Have you believed in your heart unto righteousness, confessing Jesus, establishing a relationship?

    How to be Saved

  • The Strong One versus the Stronger One

    “But the scripture hath concluded all under sin, that the promise by faith of Jesus Christ might be given to them that believe.”
    Galatians 3:22

    Jesus was teaching the people. He wanted them to understand the power He held. The people were having a hard time understanding, so he explained. “When a strong man armed keepeth his palace, his goods are in peace” (Luke 11:21). This “strong man” he is referring to is the prince of this world, the devil. (See Ephesians 2:2: “Wherein in time past ye walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience.”) We are to understand something very important. However, in order to understand this, one must know the difference between one who belongs to Jesus and one who does not.

    One, who believes in Jesus by faith, belongs to Him. “Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me” (John 14:6). Also, understand it by the following verse. “But the scripture hath concluded all under sin, that the promise by faith of Jesus Christ might be given to them that believe” (Galatians 3:22). We then declare that a Believer (Christian) has Jesus in their heart.

    A person who does not have Jesus in the heart (an unconverted sinner) does not have Him in His rightful place. Instead, by default, Satan has taken up residence (“a strong man keeps his palace”). In this condition, the person sins willfully, which is a picture of Satan’s “goods.” This is the place where Satan dwells, where he works. This becomes his stronghold, the place of which he wants to keep away from Jesus. Satan then can continue to do his wickedness. That is the condition of all without Jesus in their heart. Moreover, all seems well in that life, until there is a challenge to this status quo. When Jesus is presented, the battle begins.

    As Jesus continued teaching them, He told them of a Stronger. “But when a stronger than he shall come upon him, and overcome him, he taketh from him all his armour wherein he trusted, and divideth his spoils” (Luke 11:22). Jesus is the Stronger One. Notice what He did. Jesus has invaded what Satan thought was his territory. Jesus has been (and still is) destroying Satan’s armor and claiming his spoils. [“He that committeth sin is of the devil; for the devil sinneth from the beginning. For this purpose the Son of God was manifested, that he might destroy the works of the devil” (1 John 3:8) and “And having spoiled principalities and powers, he made a shew of them openly, triumphing over them in it” (Colossians 2:15.)] Understanding this, we can learn that one who has repented of their sin, asking forgiveness from God, has been freed from the strong one (Satan) and belongs to the Stronger One (Jesus). A decision has to be made by each individual, for there is no neutral ground in this conflict. If one thinks they can remain neutral and stay out of the conflict, this is what Jesus said, “He that is not with me is against me: and he that gathereth not with me scattereth” (Luke 11:23). A side must be chosen.

    When one believes in Jesus by faith, that heart is now clean. The difference (of the decision) is whether the individual has accepted Jesus into that heart, making His residence permanent. Remember the following must happen: “Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new” (2 Corinthians 5:17). This decision has to be made. The danger of trying not to make a decision is pictured in what Jesus told them immediately after explaining all of this.

    See what happens when one does not become a “new creature” in Christ (believe in Jesus by faith). When one cleans up, lives good for a while without actually having a nature change that is required to live as a true Christian, read what happens. “24. When the unclean spirit is gone out of a man, he walketh through dry places, seeking rest; and finding none, he saith, I will return unto my house whence I came out. 25. And when he cometh, he findeth it swept and garnished. 26. Then goeth he, and taketh to him seven other spirits more wicked than himself; and they enter in, and dwell there: and the last state of that man is worse than the first” (Luke 11:24-26). When one cleans up, lives religiously, or just in their own righteousness without the true righteousness that comes from Jesus’ finished work on the cross, the last state of the person is worse than the first. That person is left with no hope and will suffer the wrath of God that is yet to come.

    “In whom ye also trusted, after that ye heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation: in whom also after that ye believed, ye were sealed with that holy Spirit of promise” (Ephesians 1:13). Once sealed, always belonging to Jesus (the Stronger One).

    Are you one who has cleaned up your life on your own (still bound by the strong one),

    or

    Have you become a new creature in Christ (belong to the Stronger One)?

    How to be Saved

  • Knowledge of Sin

    “Therefore by the deeds of the law there shall no flesh be justified in his sight: for by the law is the knowledge of sin.”
    Romans 3:20

    When we think of the first man Adam, we remember that it was by him that sin entered into the world. However, immediately after that sin came a promise from God – He would send one to deliver mankind from that sin. “And I will put enmity between thee and the woman, and between thy seed and her seed; it shall bruise thy head, and thou shalt bruise his heel” (Genesis 3:15). From that point forward, mankind waited for God to send the Promised One; and from then on, mankind recognized the separation from God. 

    Just as sin entered into the world by one man, Adam, also because of that sin came death. “Wherefore, as by one man sin entered into the world, and death by sin; and so death passed upon all men, for that all have sinned” (Romans 5:12). We understand as we read the Bible that God revealed mankind’s sin to them through the centuries, by His Law. “Therefore by the deeds of the law there shall no flesh be justified in his sight: for by the law is the knowledge of sin” (Romans 3:20). In having this Law, people could understand just how sinful they were, and just how far from God they had become. Instead of living by faith – looking for the Promised One, the people tried to obey that Law – but failed. “For whosoever shall keep the whole law, and yet offend in one point, he is guilty of all” (James 2:10).

    We also understand after reading Romans 3:20, that no man can be justified by that Law. However, this was not revealed without the assurance that God sent One who could deliver mankind from sin and death. (Death is a result of the initial disobedience of man.) “19. For as by one man’s disobedience many were made sinners, so by the obedience of one shall many be made righteous. 20. Moreover the law entered, that the offence might abound. But where sin abounded, grace did much more abound: 21. That as sin hath reigned unto death, even so might grace reign through righteousness unto eternal life by Jesus Christ our Lord” (Romans 5:19-21). This helps us understand that the purpose of the Law given by Moses is to reveal mankind’s sin. We can then understand that God never intended for mankind to live perfectly under the Law, for it is impossible. However, the intent of that Law is to reveal to mankind their need for grace – only provided by the Savior, Jesus (that One promised from Genesis 3:15). “For the law was given by Moses, but grace and truth came by Jesus Christ” (John 1:17). It is then we can begin to understand the grace that Jesus offers. Grace is something offered that no one deserves.

    To help one understand the fulfillment of Genesis 3:15 better, read the following: “14. Forasmuch then as the children are partakers of flesh and blood, he also himself likewise took part of the same; that through death he might destroy him that had the power of death, that is, the devil; 15. And deliver them who through fear of death were all their lifetime subject to bondage. … 17. Wherefore in all things it behoved him to be made like unto his brethren, that he might be a merciful and faithful high priest in things pertaining to God, to make reconciliation for the sins of the people” (Hebrews 2:14-17). When Jesus came, lived a sinless human life, died upon the cross, and rose from the dead, he defeated the devil and death – allowing Him to be able to reconcile people to God once and for all.

    When Jesus came, He fulfilled every letter of the Law. This is something that no man had ever done, or ever will do. In that fulfillment, he took upon himself the curse of the Law for us (because we are cursed for not fulfilling it). See what he accomplished by doing this. “Christ hath redeemed us from the curse of the law, being made a curse for us: for it is written, Cursed is every one that hangeth on a tree” (Galatians 3:13). (Compare that with Deuteronomy 21:22-23.) All one has to do is believe, by faith, that Christ took that curse for us.

    We must understand that the Law was only given to reveal mankind’s sin. The Law cannot save anyone. One must have faith in Jesus. Throughout the Old Testament, we can read of the failure of mankind because they were unable to fully obey the Law. In the New Testament, we see that through Jesus, He not only fulfilled that Law, but also died so that we could have eternal life. If only one would believe. Just as through Adam, all will die, through Jesus, all can live. “21. For since by man came death, by man came also the resurrection of the dead. 22. For as in Adam all die, even so in Christ shall all be made alive …” (1 Corinthians 15:21-22).

    Have you come to the knowledge that you are a sinner, needing salvation that only comes by faith in Jesus?

    How to be Saved

  • How Can One Love Jesus?

    “If ye love me, keep my commandments.”
    John 14:15

    Why is it so important to study the books of History and the Prophets in the Old Testament, along with the New Testament? “For whatsoever things were written aforetime were written for our learning, that we through patience and comfort of the scriptures might have hope” (Romans 15:4). As we remember the history of Israel and Judah, we are to remember that God always dealt with his people. He warned of discipline for disobedience and promised restoration of His people when they repented. God is the same today. God disciplines Christians to bring them back to Him when they are not living according to the Bible’s teachings. “5. And ye have forgotten the exhortation which speaketh unto you as unto children, My son, despise not thou the chastening of the Lord, nor faint when thou art rebuked of him: 6. For whom the Lord loveth he chasteneth, and scourgeth every son whom he receiveth” (Hebrews 12:5-6). Remember, God loved us so much, He sent His only begotten Son to die upon the cross to pay for our sins. We are to show our love to Him by obeying His commands – remember Jesus’ words. “If ye love me, keep my commandments” (John 14:15).

    Recognize some things we just cannot help but notice. God has always warned His people to avoid sin and people who sin. “14. Enter not into the path of the wicked, and go not in the way of evil men. 15. Avoid it, pass not by it, turn from it, and pass away. 16. For they sleep not, except they have done mischief; and their sleep is taken away, unless they cause some to fall. 17. For they eat the bread of wickedness, and drink the wine of violence. 18. But the path of the just is as the shining light, that shineth more and more unto the perfect day. 19. The way of the wicked is as darkness: they know not at what they stumble” (Proverbs 4:14-19). 

    God has always called people to turn from their sin toward Him. “If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land” (2 Chronicles 7:14). These were encouraging words for the Israelites in King Solomon’s day.

    God wants people to live a just life, not a wicked life. God also warned us in the following verses.  “23. Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life … 27. Turn not to the right hand nor to the left: remove thy foot from evil” (Proverbs 4:23, 27). It is important to protect each heart – for what is placed in each individual’s heart will come out. Avoid wickedness and evil.

    Christians today are to recognize the destruction sin can do to a life. Remember what James teaches. “Then when lust hath conceived, it bringeth forth sin: and sin, when it is finished, bringeth forth death” (James 1:15). Lust means “to satisfy the carnal appetites.” Christians are to choose to do what is right (what pleases God) over what we want to do. When we choose our own pleasures over God’s plan, it is sin and it brings death. Also, see the following verse. “As righteousness tendeth to life: so he that pursueth evil pursueth it to his own death” (Proverbs 11:19). 

    Christians must also be careful that something that has the appearance of good is not just a form of godliness, denying the power of Jesus (never having known Jesus themselves). “Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away” (2 Timothy 3:5). We are to be cautious and make sure that what seems good is something that is truly from God.

    There is something else important to recognize. Once one becomes a Christian and begins to follow the Lord, that person must forsake all of the things of their past life. When Jesus called his disciples, they forsook all to follow Him. “And when they had brought their ships to land, they forsook all, and followed him” (Luke 5:11). When the people in Ephesus believed in Jesus and confessed Him as their Lord. “And many that believed came, and confessed, and shewed their deeds” (Acts 19:18). Deeds means “an act, practice; works; meaning conduct.” They had to remove their “deeds” from their sinful past. “Many of them also which used curious arts brought their books together, and burned them before all men: and they counted the price of them, and found it fifty thousand pieces of silver” (Acts 19:19). Curious arts means “a standard term for magic or black arts; pointing to the lengthy and various rituals involved in incantation ceremonies and the precision with which they were performed.” The people understood that they must eliminate theses wicked things from their lives. It did not matter to them the monetary cost.  They wanted to live a new life pleasing God. Once they did this, read what followed. “So mightily grew the word of God and prevailed” (Acts 19:20). Many people were saved, and God’s Word was spread.

    Are you avoiding evil and eliminating wicked things from your life, choosing to obey Jesus’ commands?

  • Can One Know God?

    “But if from thence thou shalt seek the LORD thy God, thou shalt find him, if thou seek him with all thy heart and with all thy soul.”
    Deuteronomy 4:29

    Not many people today were born into a Christian family. What does this mean? Most often, they do not understand or know God. How can one find God? How can one know God?

    In the life of King Hezekiah, we can read of a hope for someone whose family does not know of God or the things of God. King Hezekiah was the son of a terrible king of Judah, King Ahaz. King Ahaz had not only forsaken God, but he also worshiped idols – even sacrificing some of his sons to the false god Molech. Still through all of that, Hezekiah came to know God, and he pleased God in all that he did. When Hezekiah became king, he removed all of those high places where his father worshiped and even broke down all of those images the people worshiped. 

    How was Hezekiah able to come to know God, knowing the family into which he was born? Read the following verses: “But if from thence thou shalt seek the LORD thy God, thou shalt find him, if thou seek him with all thy heart and with all thy soul” (Deuteronomy 4:29). One has to seek God. Also read the following: “The LORD looked down from heaven upon the children of men, to see if there were any that did understand, and seek God” (Psalm 14:2). God knows when someone seeks after Him, for He is watching and waiting! Hezekiah opened the doors of the house of the Lord at the beginning of his reign (see 2 Chronicles 29:2). That was the place to begin. He then followed God’s Word.

    According to the following verses, we can understand that King Hezekiah took the time to seek God’s Word so he would know what God required to reestablish the relationship that had been severed. “22. And if ye have erred, and not observed all these commandments, which the LORD hath spoken unto Moses … 24. Then it shall be, if ought be committed by ignorance without the knowledge of the congregation, that all the congregation shall offer one young bullock for a burnt offering, for a sweet savour unto the LORD, … 25. And the priest shall make an atonement for all the congregation of the children of Israel, and it shall be forgiven them; for it is ignorance: … 26. And it shall be forgiven all the congregation of the children of Israel, and the stranger that sojourneth among them; seeing all the people were in ignorance” (Numbers 15:22-26). That was what God required in the Old Testament times, while the kings ruled. It is always important to know what God requires – and it is recorded in His Word. As we read the New Testament, Jesus came to set us free from the rigorous duties of the Law. “For the law having a shadow of good things to come, and not the very image of the things, can never with those sacrifices which they offered year by year continually make the comers thereunto perfect” (Hebrews 10:1). See simply what Jesus did: “8. Above when he said, Sacrifice and offering and burnt offerings and offering for sin thou wouldest not, neither hadst pleasure therein; which are offered by the law; 9. Then said he, Lo, I come to do thy will, O God. He taketh away the first, that he may establish the second. 10. By the which will we are sanctified through the offering of the body of Jesus Christ once for all” (Hebrews 10:8-10). Jesus came to set us free from the continual sacrificial system of the Law.

    Read what God did for Hezekiah for seeking Him with all of his heart. “And in every work that he began in the service of the house of God, and in the law, and in the commandments, to seek his God, he did it with all his heart, and prospered” (2 Chronicles 31:21). Because King Hezekiah sought God, doing just what God’s Word required, he not only found God, but God was honored. God then caused King Hezekiah to prosper. God was then free to bless His people openly – revealing Himself to not only Judah, but also the nations around. King Hezekiah became one of the greatest kings of Judah.

    Anyone who seeks God can know God. However, what does it take to know God? “But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him” (Hebrews 11:6). It takes faith. “For ye are all the children of God by faith in Christ Jesus” (Galatians 3:26). One can know God only by faith in Christ Jesus.  

    King Hezekiah is a great example of one who can give us hope. A hope that when God is sought, He will hear – as long as one comes to Him with a repentant heart. God can forgive anyone who will ask. “8. But what saith it? The word is nigh thee, even in thy mouth, and in thy heart: that is, the word of faith, which we preach; 9. That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. 10. For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation … For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved” (Romans 10:8-10, 13).

    Have you come to know God, understanding knowledge of God only comes by faith in Jesus?

    How to be Saved

  • Barnabas, a Friend

    “Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.”
    2 Timothy 2:15

    The Gospel message began to spread out of Jerusalem after Stephen’s death. This event let to the church being persecuted. One of the great persecutors of the church, Saul, met Jesus and was saved on the road to Damascus. There was a drastic change in Saul when he met Jesus – for even his name was later changed to Paul. However, it took time for the Believers in the church to recognize and understand this fact.

    God gave a couple of men that helped during that time. One was Ananias, whom God sent to speak with Saul first. This was important. Remember that Ananias had a message from God that Saul was chosen by God to “bear my name before the Gentiles, and kings, and the children of Israel” (Acts 9:15). Keep in mind that Saul had been one of the religious leaders, a Pharisee, having been trained and taught in the Old Testament Scriptures. Saul later declared before the council, “… Men and brethren, I am a Pharisee, the son of a Pharisee …” (Acts 23:6). He was a Pharisee, taught in the ways of the Pharisees in the “Jews’ religion.” Although he knew the Old Testament Scriptures, he needed to understand them anew after having believed Jesus was a fulfillment of those Scriptures. It would take time and much study to prepare for the task Jesus had for Paul’s life – to be the Apostle sent to the Gentile people. As we can read in Galatians, when he left Damascus, there was a three-year period that Saul was taught by Jesus, enabling him to preach the Gospel (see Galatians 1:10-19). Those three years were very important. He had to know and understand the Gospel message before he would be able to share it with others.

    After those three years of learning from Jesus, Saul returned to Jerusalem. “And when Saul was come to Jerusalem, he assayed to join himself to the disciples: but they were all afraid of him, and believed not that he was a disciple” (Acts 9:26). Saul was an unusual case – for he had been a viable threat to Believers, also called disciples of Jesus. Remember: he had been on a mission to arrest and kill them. Because of this, most Believers were afraid of Saul. Understand that they did not believe that he had become a disciple. “But Barnabas took him, and brought him to the apostles, and declared unto them how he had seen the Lord in the way, and that he had spoken to him, and how he had preached boldly at Damascus in the name of Jesus” (Acts 9:27). Nevertheless, see that God gave Saul an ally, a friend, in Barnabas. Do you remember Barnabas? He was one of the many Believers who sold their possessions, lands and houses and brought the money to the apostles (see Acts 4:36-37). The early Believers helped one another. This is yet another opportunity that Jesus was able to use Barnabas: he was a vocal friend of Saul’s.

    Although the new Believers were going out from Jerusalem into the surrounding areas, they still only told Jewish people about Jesus. There was a report that was sent back from Antioch to Jerusalem declaring many believed and turned to the Lord. When the report was received, they sent Barnabas to go to Antioch. Recognize how Barnabas is described here: “23. Who, when he came, and had seen the grace of God, was glad, and exhorted them all, that with purpose of heart they would cleave unto the Lord. 24. For he was a good man, and full of the Holy Ghost and of faith: and much people was added unto the Lord” (Acts 11:23-24). He faithfully taught the people, and many more believed in Jesus.

    Read what happened next: “25. Then departed Barnabas to Tarsus, for to seek Saul: 26. And when he had found him, he brought him unto Antioch. And it came to pass, that a whole year they assembled themselves with the church, and taught much people. And the disciples were called Christians first in Antioch” (Acts 11:25-26). Barnabas went and found Saul. They worked together, teaching the people about Jesus. It was at this time in Antioch that the disciples were first called Christians.

    Shortly thereafter, we understand that God had a special job for Barnabas and Saul. “As they ministered to the Lord, and fasted, the Holy Ghost said, Separate me Barnabas and Saul for the work whereunto I have called them” (Acts 13:2). And the people sent them – just as God wanted. When Saul begins his ministry to the Gentiles, he is no longer known as Saul, but Paul. “Then Saul, (who also is called Paul,) filled with the Holy Ghost …” (Acts 13:9). This began the First Missionary Journey of Paul and Barnabas.

    It is very important for each person who becomes a Christian, to learn the truths found in God’s Word – so they will be able to share those truths with others (“Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth” 2 Timothy 2:15). This takes time, and much reading of the Bible. A good Christian friend helps tremendously! Just as Barnabas helped Saul (Paul).

    Are you one who has shown yourself approved unto God, a workman, and even a friend, who will share the Gospel of Jesus?

  • Great is Thy Faithfulness

    “22. It is of the LORD’S mercies that we are not consumed, because his compassions fail not. 23. They are new every morning: great is thy faithfulness.”
    Lamentations 3:22-23

    Today is a day of uncertainty. The news is full of earthquakes, fires, hurricanes, tornadoes, illnesses, the possibility of food shortages, wars and rumors of wars, and so many other things of which to be fearful. This leads to much apprehension in the world today. I have never known a time when so many people are anxious about almost everything. The constant onslaught can be almost overwhelming!

    Why should a Christian not be afraid?

    What does God’s Word teach us about fear? We are to remember that God is with us. “1. God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. 2. Therefore will not we fear, though the earth be removed, and though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea; 3. Though the waters thereof roar and be troubled, though the mountains shake with the swelling thereof” (Psalm 46:1-3). If we walk with God, He will be with us.

    Jeremiah was a prophet who spoke God’s Word to the Israelite people for around forty years. The people were not walking with God, and it was a time of much trouble in the land. Eventually, the enemies came, destroyed Jerusalem, and carried the people away captive. Jeremiah witnessed these events. Although he had warned the people of the coming invasion, they had not heeded his warnings to turn back to God. The whole nation suffered because of this – even Jeremiah. Understandably, Jeremiah was greatly saddened with these events. Jeremiah wrote the following as he witnessed God’s judgment upon His people for their continual rejection of His Word: “The LORD is righteous; for I have rebelled against his commandment: hear, I pray you, all people, and behold my sorrow …” (Lamentations 1:18a). He wrote the book of Lamentations, revealing the horrors he witnessed, and the sorrow in his heart. Yet in the midst of that sad book, he reminded us of a very pleasant hope. “22. It is of the LORD’S mercies that we are not consumed, because his compassions fail not. 23. They are new every morning: great is thy faithfulness. 24. The LORD is my portion, saith my soul; therefore will I hope in him. 25. The LORD is good unto them that wait for him, to the soul that seeketh him” (Lamentations 3:22-25). Jeremiah knew God was with him. He understood that God is a forgiving God – even when we fail Him miserably! Have you heard the song we often sing in churches written from these verses? Great is Thy Faithfulness. Read the following encouraging words:

    “1. Great is Thy faithfulness, O God my Father, There is no shadow of turning with Thee;

    Thou changest not, Thy compassions they fail not; As Thou has been Thou forever wilt be.

    2. Pardon for sin and a peace that endureth, Thine own dear presence to cheer and to guide;

    Strength for today and bright hope for tomorrow, Blessings all mine, with ten thousand beside!

    Refrain: Great is Thy faithfulness! Great is Thy faithfulness! Morning by morning new mercies I see;

    All I have needed Thy hand hath provided; Great is Thy faithfulness, Lord, unto me! Amen!”

    It is easy to constantly be distracted by the relentless onslaught of bad news. As one hears the new potential crisis almost every day, it is hard to focus one’s thoughts upon God and the things of God. When we forget God and begin to focus upon the troubles of the world, the problems can appear to be overwhelming. It is before one reaches this point that a decision must be made. What must a Christian decide? To trust God! It is then that when all of the troubles of the world seem to come against us, we can stop and be at rest knowing God is in control. “Be still, and know that I am God: I will be exalted among the heathen, I will be exalted in the earth” (Psalm 46:10). We will then remember that God will take care of His own. “5. Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. 6. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths. 7. Be not wise in thine own eyes: fear the LORD, and depart from evil” (Proverbs 3:5-7). We are to fear the Lord, doing what His Word says to do. That should be rather easy – for if we walk with God, we will depart from evil.

    Christians should not be so entangled in the troubles of the day that one forgets to walk with (and especially trust) God. Turn off the news and read the Bible. Remember: “… his compassions fail not. 23. They are new every morning: great is thy faithfulness” (Lamentations 3:22-23). Also keep in mind: “The LORD is good unto them that wait for him, to the soul that seeketh him” (Lamentations 3:25). It is important for Christians to seek the Lord and not the potential troubles of the day.

    Do you seek the Lord, understanding that if we walk with Him, He will be faithful?