Results 201 - 220 of 255
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Results from: Answers On or After: Thu 12/31/70 Author: Robert Nicholson Ordered by Date |
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Results | Verse | Author | ID# | |||
201 | 7 Churches in Rev., which is yours like? | Rev 1:11 | Robert Nicholson | 36369 | ||
Greetings Love Fountain: What a great question! I do not want to sound negative, but I believe that Laodicea meaning (rule of the people) represents many churches today. We find that this church is "rich and increased in goods" and think "they have need of nothing" Rev. 3:17. More importantly, in this church Christ is no longer in the center of the church, but is outside the door V20 imploring individuals to open the door and he will come into them and sup with them. I agree that all seven represent 7 actual churches, and 7 conditions of the church and 7 times in history relative to the professing church. It would be wonderful if we could live in the condition of Philadelphia, a time of brotherly love and when a great door of opportunity was opened as those men of God in the Post Reformation period spoke the word of God in truth and love; a time when thousands came to Christ. God bless you Robert |
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202 | those who live godly will be persecuted | 2 Tim 3:12 | Robert Nicholson | 36363 | ||
Greetings Brother Zach: Your post brought this verse to mind. "Let us go therefore unto him without the camp, bearing his reproach" Hebrews 13:13 If we are truly devoted to Christ and identify with him outside the camp of worldly religion there will be reproach. As a Christian we have to make a choice as to whom we will serve. I enjoy the example of Moses who could have had the riches of Eygpt and yet "he choosing to suffer affliction with the people of God, than to enjoy the pleasures of sin for a season. Esteeming the reproach of Christ greater riches than the treasures of Eypt" Heb.11:25-26 The three fold enemy of the Christian is the world, the flesh and the devil. If it is our desire to live for Christ, all three will undoubtedly test us. Do you not think that being a Christian spoils us for the world: keeping in mind that we are strangers away from home and pilgrims going home? It will cost us to follow Christ, we cannot have both worlds so to speak. My dad used to have a verse on his wall which read "Only one life twill soon be passed, Only what's done for Christ will last." We read "The fear of man bringeth a snare: but whoso putteth his trust in the LORD shall be safe." (Prov.29:25) I know that during my life the fear of man has caused me to be a "wimp" at times when it came to making a bold stand for Christ. God bless you brother Robert |
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203 | an egyptian king had arisen | Exodus | Robert Nicholson | 36169 | ||
Dear Lovetopraisehim At the end of Genesis we read about the last days of Joseph. He was raised up of God to deliver both his own people in addition to being a blessing to Eygpt. In Exodus 1:8 "Now there arose a King who knew not Joseph" He was wary of the prosperity and posterity of the children of Israel and developed a plan which would put them into bondage. This bondage was increased, but instead of bringing them under control, it seemed that the more they were persecuted the greater their blessing. The King then ordered the midwives to kill the sons which would be born to Israel. However, we find that God was in control and used the King's daughter to save the one he would eventually use in the deliverance of his people from Eygpts bondage. In fact God prepared him as he was educated in the Eygptian culture. We read that Moses made a choice "choosing rather to suffer affliction with the people of God, than to enjoy the pleasures of sin for a season" (Hebrews 11:25) Moses murdered a Eygption and had to flee for his life into the desert where be became a shepherd. It was there that God called him from the burning bush. It was at this holy place that Moses met "I AM" for the first time. The conditions which the children of Israel found themselves in when Moses was called is found in God's words to Moses "I have surely seen the affliction of my people which are in Eygpt, and have heard their cry by reason of their taskmasters; I know their sorrows"(Exodus 3:7) Peace Robert |
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204 | Adam to JESUS lineage. | Bible general Archive 1 | Robert Nicholson | 35245 | ||
Delbib: The genealogy of Mary the mother of Jesus is found in Luke 3:23-38 which traces back to Adam. In v. 24 we read "as being supposed) was the son of Joseph who was the son of Heli" In Matt. 1 we have the genealogy of Joseph which traces back to King David. The word "son" is not in the original Greek, but has been put in by the translators. It would appear that Mary was the daughter of Heli and Josepth the son-in-law. In accord with Jewish useage of that day he would be referred to as son of Heli, but he was not beget by Heli. Robert |
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205 | DID JESUS EVER MARRY OR HAVE THE TEMPTAT | Heb 2:17 | Robert Nicholson | 35196 | ||
Suzyq: The important thing to remember when discussing the Lord Jesus is that he knew no sin and in him was no sin. He differed from you and I in that he did not have the capacity to sin. Why? Because he is God manifest in the flesh. We read "For in that he himself suffered being tempted, he is able to succour them that are tempted." Heb. 2:17 The verse which you have referred to is found in Hebrews 4:15 "For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin." We have to be careful when we interpret "all points" as every way. It was God's will that his son would come into the world to as a Jewish boy of the genealogy of King David and into the Godly line of Seth. He was a true man, he grew up without the impediment of a sinful nature, he was always obedient to his earthly parents and his heavenly father. God's will for him did not include an earthly marriage as his main purpose in coming to earth was to die for our sins. In Isaiah we read "who shall declare his generation? for he was cut off out of the land of the living." Isaiah 53:8b In other words there was no one in the natural sense to continue his generation or seed. However, we find that it was God's plan that his Son would have a spiritual seed and a spiritual bride. "when thou shalt make his soul an offering for sin, he shall see his seed, she shall prolong his days and the pleasure of the Lord shall prosper in his hand. In his death he could see the big picture. His earthly life would be cut off and yet God would give him a spiritual seed through his death and resurrection. We could ask this question "If Jesus never knew what it was to suffer from personal sin, how then can he sympathize with us? Jesus did not suffer for his own sin, However, he has experience the consequences of sin more than humans can ever know; when upon the cross he was made sin for us. The experiences of Jesus then, were experienced as a young Jewish man who walked in perfection before God and Man. He fulfilled the law totally. Although he did not experience each specific thing which we may experience; his experience in living, suffering, dying, being resurrected, and his ascention to the right hand of God, all of this equips him to understand our needs and sorrows. The word "Temptation" in the scriptures has two meanings, 1. testing under trial 2. solicitation to evil The Lord has promised us that in times of testing he will not allow us to be tempted above that which we are able. However, God never tempts with sin. "Let no man say when he is tempted, I am tempted of God, God cannot be tempted with evil, neither tempteth he any man. But every man is tempted when he is drawn away of his own lust, and enticed. Then when lust hath conceived it bringth forth sin; sin when it is finished bringeth forth death. James 1:13-15 As Christians we must try to differentiate between testing which will mature us in the Lord and our own lust which draws us into sin and breaks our fellowship with God. In Summary, the Lord Jesus knew what it was to be tested during his time on earth. However, he never knew what it was to be tempted with sin. "God cannot be tempted with evil" In addition, the example of the Lord Jesus should not determine whether or not we should marry. God in the early creation indicated that this was his desire that a man would cleave to his wife and they would be one flesh. Paul teaches the truth you are touching on. If we are willing to sacrifice a marriage relationship for the glory of God, we will be blessed and be able to serve the Lord without distractions. Many however, make the choice to marry and to be workers together in the Lord's service. Either way we can be pleasing to the Lord. In Christ Robert |
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206 | "...and fasting"? | Mark 9:29 | Robert Nicholson | 35086 | ||
Dear brother Makarios: The reference in my Old Scofield Bible note that"and fasting" is not found in "the two best MSS. However, having said that, think that we need to look at the verse within its context. While Jesus is up in the mountain with Peter, James and John, the other disciples are waiting for him. It would appear the the scribes were questioning them specifically about their power to heal. The father of the child has already asked the disciples to cast the demon out, "but they could not" I believe in V19 he is speaking to his disciples as he rebukes them. We find that after this event they had disputed among themselves "who should be the greatest"V.34 It would make one wonder what their motive was in wanting to have the power to heal. Was it for self promotion? Jesus said "This kind can come forth by nothing, but prayer and fasting." In other words total dependence and faith in God couple with denial of self. In Matt. 17 we find that he expands on this event. It is here that Jesus taught them that it takes a "small"amount of faith in a "great" God. Interestingly, according to my margin again, Matt. 17:23 does not exist in the two best MSS. I think in both cases, we are seeing that translations are not inspired. Unless we can hear or read it in the language of the original authors, there is always room for some discrepency with words. However, I do not see how these omittions interfere with sound doctrine. In Christ Robert |
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207 | The Ministry of the "Walking Wounded" | 1 Tim 4:6 | Robert Nicholson | 35081 | ||
Dear brother Markarios: I hardly know where to start. My heart goes out to those who have been good soldiers of Jesus Christ and yet find themselves in a situation which seems impossible to overcome. There is no greater hurt than one that is caused by spiritual family members whom we love. I list myself with the "walking wounded" and I am thankful for fellowship with brothers and sisters in Christ on this forum. When things are going well it is easy to discuss Paul and his needs, and how he entreated God to remove his thorn in the flesh. God simply gave him this answer, "My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me." 2 Cor. 12:9 We get a sense of Paul's frustration in 2 Tim. 4. In v. 6 he speaks of his own death by martyrdom and of his departure to be with Christ. The "voice" of his last instructions show us his love for those he will be living and his faithfulness and love to Christ. "For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain." Phil. 1:21 In these last days "the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears; And they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables." 2 Tim. 4:3-4 The Lord has been wonderful to me over my life and in retrospect I see his hand in it. At times it is not pleasant to be chastened of him and yet in going through the process we know that he loves us more than we will ever know. During the early years of my life as a member with the Plymouth brethren, the Lord by his grace used us (my wife and I) along with others in establishing a Sunday School and a gospel outreach in a rural area. During those days we experience much blessing from God and souls were brought to a saving knowledge of Christ. As the numbers grew we were exercised in forming a church after the pattern of the New Testament. This pattern consisted of those who were saved and baptized and expressed a desire to be gathered to the Name of our Lord Jesus Christ alone. The Lord blessed us and gave us strength as the small group as workers together built a nice sized hall. We had been meeting in an older hall which did not have facilities and could not be upgraded. The physical building grew and spiritual growth and gift could be seen among the Lord's people. For 15 years we had our ups and downs, but were generally settled in the Lord. Since we did not have a full time pastor, there were those who functioned as overseers to feed, lead and protect the flock of God. This was no small responsiblity, but we did it with joy knowing we serve the best of masters. About 12 years ago, the group divided and some polarized around a person from among us who thought himself to be somewhat of a prophet. The problem was he was causing a split among the people with his brand of doctrine and his prophetic insight. In an attempt to save ourselves, I along with a few others attempted to stop the problem and to bring unity among the Lord's people. In short, the church was divided, many left, one committed suicide and the person in the wrong seemed to still have the dominant influeance. Personally, this took a toll on me and my wife and as time went by at the advice of my doctor I had to withdraw from the church. To withdraw from something which had become a part of you for so many years was equivalent to a living death. Over the past 12 years I have tried to make sense of it all. I even tried to live afar off from the Lord and yet I found no peace or true happiness. I have (not unlike others) suffered major health problems and financial loss. Due to my health I retired early from teaching and opened a business which I thought would help my family. Due to problems with this we lost almost everything we owned. During the past year after shutting the business down I have tried to get closer to God and I have experience forgiveness and have a peace which I cannot explain. I have had the priviledge to give myself to a study of the scriptures and at this point we are looking for direction in our life which would bring glory and honor to Christ. It is my desire that in this last phase of my life that God could still use me and that I might continue to experience the joy of his salvation until he comes. By writing this, it is not my intention to ask for sympathy or am I bitter toward God's people. I would like to simply give the readers a little insight that leaders must go through in order to maintain a testimony for the Lord. I know that God is able and yet at times we wonder why we must travel down these side tracks of life. I would however, covet your prayers for my family and I. I am so thankful that I am kept my his power. In Christ Robert |
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208 | What gospel does he preach? | 1 John 4:1 | Robert Nicholson | 35076 | ||
Dear Liza7girl: The marks of these false prophets are: a) They do not believe "that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh" 1 John 4:3 In other words they do no believe that Christ is God manifest in the flesh. b) They love the world or the spirit of the age and the world heareth them V.5 In 1 John 2:15 those who love Christ are told "love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. In other words, Christ should always be first in our lives. What would their gospel be? It is not a gospel which brings about conviction and change in a person. Since they deny that Jesus is the enternal son of God, they are not enpowered by the holy spirit. Their preaching may be about a the wonderful example of Jesus, but they will never understand the power of his death and glorious resurrection. They preach a dead Christ. Today we see this in many versions, in which people will supposedly acknowledge a historical Christ and have many ways of explaining away the siginficance of our sin, our saviour, our life in him, his coming again, the resurrection of the dead and judgement to come. Their gospel never makes humankind accountable to God. It encourages them to become self-reliant. Their message however, is popular, they love the world, they speak of wordly things; things which other people of the world love to hear. Instead of telling people what God through Christ can do in their lives; their message is one of self promotion and living without God. They are religious in their ways and skilful, similar to the coming counterfeit Christ who will bring this world to ruin. The main test of a person according to John is based on that great question "What think you of Christ, whose son is he?" God bless Robert |
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209 | Enoch and Elijah 'raptured'? | 2 Kin 2:3 | Robert Nicholson | 35075 | ||
Dear brother: In Hebrews 11:5 "By Faith Enoch was translated that he should not see death" Enoch is listed with the heros of faith. He did not die, so we cannot say he was resurrected like the old testament saints after the resurrection of Christ. He was translated which I believe is the same word used in 1 Cor. 15:51 "...we shall not all sleep (die), but we all shall be changed" This reference is referring to the same time as found in 1 Thess 4:15-17 When our risen Lord will come for those who are "in Christ". I think that it is significant in the matter which God took Enoch. Gen. 5:24 "Enoch walked with God : and he was not; for God took him. There was no disruption around him, simply he was taken. The writer of the Hebrews shows more light on the subject telling us that he did not die, but he was translated. In old testament types we notice also that Enoch was taken before God came down in judgement on the ungodly with the flood. Whereas, Noah was left on the earth and was delivered through the flood as a picture of Israel in a coming day who will be kept through the judgment of God during the Great Tribulaltion. Why is Elijah not mentioned as a hero of faith. After all, he was a prophet of God at a time of great Apostasy. Which would remind us of this world after the man of Sin is revealled. He came with great power and with fire. As he came so was he taken. Elijah as Enoch did not die, he was translated. "It came to pass, as they still went on, and talked, that behold, a chariot of fire and horses of fire, and parted them both asunder; and Elijah went up by a whirlwind into heaven" 2 Kings. 2:12 It is also significant that when the Lord Jesus was transfigured that Elijah and Moses appeared there with him. Luke 9:-28-36 and Matt. 17: 1-8 The transfiguration is a picture of Christ in all his glory when he comes to rule in righteousness. Dr. Scofield points out that Moses is representative of those who have passed into the kingdom through death. In contrast to Elijah representative of those who have entered the kingdom by translation at the coming of Christ. Dear brother, this is where I find myself somewhat puzzled. Could it be that Enoch and Elijah picture those who will be translated from two perspectives? Namely, Enoch went quietly into the presence of the Lord. Elijah was surrounded the the power of God which could point out the the great power and glory which we will share with Christ when he comes back in judgement on this old earth as seen in 2 Thess. 1:8-10 which associates his vengence with the time when "he shall come to be glorified in his saints..."V10 In our soon coming Lord Robert |
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210 | Three days or three years? | Amos 4:4 | Robert Nicholson | 35071 | ||
Dear brother. The Darby, NKJV, NASB, AMPLIFIED, ASV AND NLT say "three days" The RSV, YLT, KJV, NIV say "three years" Isn't it wonderful to have so many choices. We know at the time it was given to the people through Amos that it would be clearly understood by the people. As Sere???? has pointed out the Strongs #03117 transliterated "Yowm" is defined in #1 as day, time and year. As you are aware, in Deuteronmy 14:28 the Lord said "at the end of 3 years thou shalt bring forth all the tithe ..." This tithe was for those who where in need or had no way of making a living and for the sabbath rest on the 7th year. Lev. 25: 1-6 According to Jamison, Fausset,Brown commentary that he term "after three years"- after three years is literally "after three (years of) days" It would seem that these tithes of their increase where brought to the storehouse after each third year. With a sabbath after 2 groups of 3. I believe that it is three years which is in view here. I think that if we are referring to crops etc. that we would not have a tithe every 3 days since we would have to wait for the increase. What do you think? In Christ Robert |
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211 | In Heaven a-way from pain | Ps 23:4 | Robert Nicholson | 34868 | ||
Dear Grace7044: My prayers are with you at this time as you mourn the loss of your mom. I have gone down that road as well when I was 19 and my mom 47. That is why I love Psalm 23:4 as we are reminded of our walk in this valley of death. I love the following words: "Until the day break, and the shadows flee away" (Song of Solomon 4:6a) The triumph of our Saviour at Calvary assures us that a day is coming when those who know him will be reunited by those who sleep in Christ (1 Thess.4) Dear sister, you wonder what heaven is like. Jesus said "I go to prepare a place for you." John 14:2 He purchased that place for us by his own precious blood. It is not a building or a city necessarily, but it is in the present of Christ himself. In Cor.5 Paul reminds us that our present bodies are like a tent which if the Lord tarries we will put off. In v.4 he speaks of how wonderful it would be to be alive when Christ comes and to be immediately changed from mortal to immortal bodies. However, Paul sensing that his time on earth was short comforts us with the confidence that if we die, that we will be present with the Lord V 6-8 I do not believe this is soul sleep but to be present with him is to be awake in his presence. We are not told much about the presence of the Lord. We know that he is seated at the right hand of God. There are angels who worship him. It would seem reasonable that when we arrive in his presence that our hearts would respond in praise to him. The story is told of a wife who asked her husband "will you talk to me in heaven" He answered " after I gaze on the Lord Jesus for a thousand years, I may have time to look back at you". We are not really given much information about heaven, because human words cannot express the beauty, love and peace it will be in the presence of Christ. But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him." (Cor. 2:9) Over the years I have often wondered if my mom and dad have any knowledge of earth. This may be wishful thinking. We know however, that our Lord Jesus is looking done and he genuinely cares for those who have suffered loss. I love the hope in this old hymn "some day the silver cord will break, And I no more as now shall sing, But Oh the joy when I awake, Within the Palace of the King. Then I shall see him face to face, And tell the story Saved by grace." May God be very near to you as you morn this loss. Remember, that God gave us memories, so that we could have roses in December". God bless you and yours Your brother by his grace Robert |
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212 | Any info on the Human side of Jesus? | Heb 4:15 | Robert Nicholson | 34834 | ||
I think the most important thing to understand is that Jesus is God incarnate. He is truly a man and he is truly God manifest in the flesh. Beginning at his birth, he was given the outside place a stable, yet he knew the love and adoration of those around him. In his years of growing up it was tradition that he would learn the trade of his earthly father Joseph. He knew what it was like to be misunderstood even by his parents. At the age of 12 he was able to discuss the Holy Scriptures with the doctors and lawyers as he went about his heavenly father's business. We would say in human terms he was gifted intellectually and yet those of his own people were envious of his knowledge and insight. After his baptism when God announced from heaven "This is my well beloved Son in whom I am well pleased" After this public declaration he knew what it was to fast in the desert 40 days. During this time when he would be physically tired and hungry Satan came to tempt him. He answered Satan's temptations with the word of God. During his public ministry and he knew what it was to be a prophet "without honor in his own country". He showed righteous anger as he drove the money changers out of the temple. However, his general attitude toward his fellow man was one of kindness and care; doing good on every hand. There were many times however, when he had to stand his ground and answer the hypocrites sharply when they tried to bring him down to their level. He did not tolerate people who professed to be religious and yet lived self promoting lives. He was very poor "he could say the foxes have their holes, the birds of the air their nest, and the Son of Man hath nowhere to lie his head". He knew what it was to be surrounded by needy people, those who flocked to him for help. He wept with those who wept as was seen when his friend Lazarus died. He could also rejoice with others at a wedding feast. He showed great sympathy to those who did not seem to know their need and continued on in life without hope. He also knew that he would soon die and he knew how terrible that death would be and yet he spent his last days making sure that his disciples had instructions which would help them cope after he was gone. He gave them great comfort in his words as he sense their sadness. He sat with them at the supper and knowing that his hour was come and suffered the sadness of being sold out by his friend for 30 pieces of silver. After the supper he went out into the quietness of the garden to pray to his father God. His disciples went out to comfort him and yet they fell asleep. All alone before God he prayed being in agony, asking God to remove this awful death, and yet knowing this was not possible, he was willing to bow to the will of his father God. He experienced the fear as the soldiers came to take him away and yet he did not fight against them. In the Judgement halls he was falsely accused, tormented and mocked. The great leaders of the day had no pity for him and even though he had done no wrong they delivered him to be crucified. His heart was deeply saddened as he looked at those who were dear to him, especially his mother as she watched the awful shameful death of her firstborn son. His friend Peter denyed knowing him and as Jesus looked at him "he went out and wept bitterly". There was nothing anyone could do to help him. In fact most people were treating his suffering and death as a time of celebration. On the cross he suffered the thorns, the nails, the beatings of man, the thirst and the shame. In his agony he listened to the taunts of his fellowman who hated him without a cause. He was alone, abandoned even by God as the earth was closed in darkness in the mid-day for 3 hours. I would suggest Psalam 22 as a reference of the sufferings of Christ. As the perfect man, Christ Jesus, he demonstrated unconditional, unselfish love toward those who despised him by offering himself as a sacrifice to God for our sins. He died with a sure hope, knowing that God would raise him from the dead. We should be cautious in trying to separate his human side from his spiritual side. He as a total man, a perfect man who lived as God intended all men to live. He is the Spotless Lamb of God. He is the uncomparable Christ, who knows our need and sympathises with our sorrows, because he too has passed that way. Yet without sin. Just a few thoughts Robert. |
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213 | Where is faith from? | Heb 11:1 | Robert Nicholson | 34710 | ||
brother Charis: Faith is a wonderful topic when it comes to Christ. The faith which we have placed in him is likened to a "hope we have as an anchor of the soul, both sure and stedfast, and which entereth into that within the veil;" (Heb. 6:19) What is faith as it relates to our relationship to God? Faith as found in Strongs word study is : "Conviction of the truth of anything" Faith is a noun, it is the inner conviction which we receive the moment we rest upon Christ as revealed to us by the Holy Spirit. This conviction can not be destroyed or lost if it is upon Christ alone. Some would argue, but how can you prove that what you believe is true? In other words is the Bible true in its revealtion of Christ to us? Can we depend upon it with our soul for eternity? Faith is founded on fact. These facts can be observed by the believer and the unbeliever. Unbelief does not change facts. Some again argue, you claim the Bible is true "because it says so itself" This is circular thinking. I believe that the foundation to the scriptures rests in Christ. Was he who he claimed to be? I think the starting point begins at his resurrection. Think of Thomas who demanded physical proof of Chirst's resurrection before he would believe. At this point he did not have faith in the resurrected Christ. We see the grace of God in his case when the Lord Jesus said to him: "Thomas, Reach hither thy finger, and behold my hands; and reach hither thy hand, and thrust it into my side: and be not faithless, but believing." (John 20:27) The answer of Thomas shows to us the conviction or faith which was given to him the moment he saw the risen Lord "Thomas answered and said, "My Lord and My God." Jesus said "Thomas because you have seen you have believed. Blessed are they who have not seen and yet have believed. The facts of the resurrection of Christ prove that he was who he claimed to be! - the empty tomb - the undesturbed grave clothes - no body in the tomb - his bodily appearances to those he loved - the wounds of Calvary still visible - seen of over 400 people at once. - After 40 days taken up into glory - later seen by Paul on the road to Damascus What about outsiders? - the guards knew he was gone and were paid to lie. In fact his resurrection was know throughout the area. Paul in his defence before King Agrippa testified that "Christ should suffer and that he would be the first to rise from the dead" (Acts 26:23) Agrippa tried to say Paul was mad. However, Pauls answer is significant: "For the king knoweth of these things, before whom also I speak freely: for I am persuaded that none of these things are hidden from him; for this thing was not done in a corner."Acts 26:26 Agrippa, nor any of his advisors argued against the historical fact concerning the death, buriel and resurrection of Christ. The lie of the guards "his disciples stole the body while we slept"; This statement proves that something was wrong with the picture. Roman guards who slept would normally be put to death, and not allowed to spread lies. The proof of this resurrection is seen in the life of his apostles who suffered much for his sake and some were martyered in his name. Why did they do this? Because they personally witnessed the risen Christ. When God by his spirit reveals to us the truth that he died for our sins, was buried and rose again the third day. Once we are convinced of this everything else falls into place. Where does faith come from? "Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of (our) faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God." (Heb. 12:2) Note that our is in italics Faith is not something which we can not work up on our own. It is taking God at his word as shown to us in the scriptures. "For by grace are we saved by faith, and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God, not of works lest any should boast" Eph 2:8 What is the difference between saving faith and faith? Many people will admit that they believe about Christ that he died, was buried and was raised from the dead. And yet they are not saved! They have never experience the inner conviction that God is true, that Christ is our redeemer and that he lives. Faith is given to us by God the moment we rest upon the truth which he reveals to us by his Spirit through his grace alone. Can we receive or attain more? I think most would admit that "it is a little faith in a great God" However, after we are saved our confidence in him becomes more settled or mature, if we feed on his word and live for him. When we have doubts, they are usually self-doubts. Our clarity of faith is dependent on the amount we are willing to "put off" those things which would distract us from him. Peace to you in his name. Robert |
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214 | thou hast left thy first love | NT general Archive 1 | Robert Nicholson | 34601 | ||
Brother Zach: I think that in order to understand a verse such as Rev. 4:12 we have look at it the following way. To whom was the book written? To the seven churches of Asia which existed as Churches of God in A.D.96 (Rev. 1:4) The Lord is speaking to the church and its corporate testimony. It is the church, the professing people in the church as a group who are warned and exhorted to repent. We see that through each stage of professing Christendom that there is a remanent faith to Christ. In looking at the seven churches, we notice at the beginning the Lord Jesus Christ is in the midst of the Church by church #7 Christ is outside the door knocking and inviting individuals to come into him. What is it about? Rev. 1:1 "The revalation or (unveiling) of Jesus Christ". The book is about "things which thou hast seen" (past) Rev. 1:19; "things which are"( present) (Rev. 2-3); and "things which shall be hereafter" (future) Rev. 4-22. The things which are now A.D. 96 is the condition of the churches of God relative to Jesus Christ. However, like so many things in prophecy, each of the seven churches are also representative of a church age. 1. The Chruch of Ephesus. The condition of the churh at the end of the apostolic age. circa A.D.96 2. The church of Smyrna: The condition of the church from the time of the great persecutions until A.D. 316 Smyrna means Myrrh which is symbolic of suffering. 3. The church of Pergamos: The condition of the church from A. D. 316 to the end. This condition merges with the condition of the next church of Thyratira. 4. The church of Thyatira: A.D. 500 - 1500 The condition of the church under the sytem of Rome. 5. The church of Sardis: The church at the time of the Reformation 6. The Church of Philadelphia:(brotherly love) The restoration of the church in a measure to first love. These were times of great blessing. 7. The Church of Laodica (Rule of the People) The condition of the church in the last days and is representative of the church now. Just a few words on the 1st Church in Ephesus: The Lord first of lists their good qualities: - Thy labor, thy patience, they have stood against evil, judged false teachers, they have labored for his names"s sake and have not fainted. This church was doctrinally correct. They labor, in other words they work very hard to serve the Lord for his names's sake. So what is wrong? "Thou hast left thy first love" When they were first saved they joyfully labored for the Lord motivated by love. However, as time passes they labor out of duty rather than out of love. The people in this particular church would be regarded as hardworking, faithful, and dutiful Christians. I will stop for now Your brother by his grace Robert |
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215 | how can we loose our salvation. | John 10:28 | Robert Nicholson | 34370 | ||
Dear friend The story of the prodical Son in Luke 15 shows the love, mercy and forgiveness of a father even when we have gone astray. The son asked his father for his inheritance and head off on his own way. He wasted it all on high living and when he spent all, he had to feed pigs and even stoop to partaking of their feed to live. However, even though he had sunk to this level, he was still his father's son. The son wakes up to his need and realizes his wrong and heads home with the idea of being just a servant and not a son. Meanwhile, the father is concerned about his wayward son and is watching for him. "When he was yet a far way off, his father saw him, and had compassion, and ran and fell on his neck and kissed him" V.20 The son starts to confess his sin and his desire to be just a servant. The Father clothed him in the best robe, put shoes on his feet and a ring on his finger. This was his son who had been lost to him but had returned home. The son was never less a son while he was away than when he arrived back home. As Christians we can get cold in heart, want our own way and indeed waste the talents which God has given us. Nevertheless, he is concerned for us and watching over us as we walk at a distance to him. Afterall we are still his son/daughter. If we come home to him his arms like the father of old are open to accept us back, to forgive us and to love us, because we are members of his eternal family. I cannot understand why some wish to put so much energy into trying to prove that Christians can lose their salvation. How can we lose a family position which has been given to us through Christ, yea even to "the adoption of children" Eph.1:5 Noah and his family of old provide a good picture of God's salvation through Christ: The ark is a picture of Christ. When God called Noah and his family into the ark, they entered and God shut the door. Could they decide to leave if they wanted or be kicked out if they misbehaved? No! God had shut them in. We read about those who have trusted Christ: "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" Eph. 1:13 When we entered through the door of John 10:5 we entered by or through Christ and upon entering we are sealed by the holy Spirit of promise."(Gal 1:13 Paul also writes: "Who hath also sealed us, and given the earnest of the Spirit in our hearts." (1 Cor.1:22) God's salvation in the scriptures is seen in 3 aspects: 1. We are saved from the Penalty of sin when we first trust Christ. All our sins were laid on him and judged by God. 2. We are saved of preserved daily from the power of sin by the Holy Spirit who dwells in each believer. We will be changed more and more into becoming like Christ as we allow the Holy Spirit to work in our lives. Sadly, we may choose to greave the Holy Ghost or to quench the Holy Ghost and try our own prodical way. Which results in our loss in a future day and God's loss today. 2. We will be saved from the very presence of sin when Jesus comes and we that are his at his coming will be called into his personal presence forever. If God is satisfied in the work which Jesus accomplished on the cross, a fact that is proven in that God raised him from the dead; Then why can't feeble sinners simply accept God at his word and accept Christ alone for salvation? St. Paul had doubts about his life for Christ and was bothered that he might fall out of the race set before him. On the other hand he could say with confidence regarding his souls security "I know whom I have believed and am persuaded that he is able to keep that which I have committed unto him against that day."1 (Tim. 1:12) John provides this note of assurance to the believers "These things have I written unto you that believe on the name of the Son of God; that you might know that you have eternal life, and that you may believe on the name of the Son of God"(1 John5 :13) In others words since we have eternal life, we can contiue to trust him for everything to come, because we are his forever. A sinner saved by grace alone Robert |
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216 | Geography of the Forum! | Acts 21:39 | Robert Nicholson | 34342 | ||
Robert Nicholson Port Sydney, Ontario Canada | ||||||
217 | The origin of life | John 1:3 | Robert Nicholson | 34267 | ||
Greetings JK316 In Gen.1:1 "in the beginning God" Before this universe came into being "God". It is difficult to comprehend a Source without beginning or end. "In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth." This is a dateless past. In Gen 1:2 "Now the earth was without form; and darkness was upon the face of the deep and the Spirit of God was brooding over the waters. We have no idea how long the earth was this way. Some have suggested that the earth became this way due to the judgment of God on a past civilization. The uprising and fall of Lucifer have been suggested as the cause to such a catastrophe. v.3 "God said let there be light and there was light" from this moment on we see how the earth was renewed to what we now enjoy. We realize that the creatures of God were brought forth after their kind. I think that we find in most species that over time they may adapt or change, but do not cross over kinds. The created earth is constanly changing and is much different today than it was in the day of Adam. As I am sure you are aware that today, we have people who believe in a young earth, whereas there are others which accept the old earth. Personally, I favour the old earth due to the facts of the fossil record and the evidences of the geological ages. I believe however, that behind it all "is God" Creator and Sustainer of all things. Another thing to consider in Genises, that we are not told how long Man was on the earth in total fellowship with God before sin entered the world. I certainly do not think it was just a few months I look forward to hearing your thoughts Robert |
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218 | Why exclude the ressurrection of Christ? | 1 John 2:2 | Robert Nicholson | 34258 | ||
I think we often study the sacrifice of Christ for our sins on calvary and when we were saved we accepted his substitutionary work on our behalf. When we trust Christ we realize that this is not a dead saviour whom we trust, but one who not only died for us, and was buried and that on the third day God raised him from the dead. The resurrection of Christ is the absolute foundation to all the blessings which we have in him. As you have pointed out that in 1 Cor. 15:17-19 "If Christ be not raised, your faith is vain, you are yet in your sins. Then they also which have fallen asleep in Christ are perished. If in this life only, we have hope in Christ, we are of all men most miserable" In others words if Christ was not triumphant over death then he is not whom he claimed to be. If we are trusting in a dead Christ, we are still dead in our sins. In addition, those who trusted him and have died are lost. Finally, if our hope does not go beyond this life, we are miserable, all we have is another dead religion. Oh the triumphs of Christ! V.20 "But now is Christ risen from the dead, and become the firstfruits of them that slept." Because he lives, we live,; because he was raised from the dead bodily, we also will be raised at his coming. Our hope which goes beyond this life is anchored safe within the veil in the saviours blood and we watch expectantly for the time when we will be in his personal presence for ever. Momma, I think that you could probably explain the two aspects of the Lordship of Christ. However, I will try. In Phil.2:9 Wherefore God hath highly exalted him and given him a name 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 every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord to the Glory of God the Father." You have mentioned the devils tremble and so they should. They know he is Lord and satan and his minions know there time is short and they will be judged by him. They know there is absolutely no escape. We read in Romans 9:10 "If thou shalt confess with the mouth the Lord Jesus (or Jesus as Lord) and shalt believe in thy heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved" When God by his spirit reveals to us our lost condition and need. We turn to Christ as both Saviour and Lord. When we rest upon him by faith for our salvation we are saying "he died for me, my sins were borne by him on the cross. I accept him as my Lord to be the leader of my life by his spirit. I believe Lordship for the Christian is turning my control over to Christ and allowing him to be my life. As we live in him and obey him we are changed more and more into his image. God bless Robert. |
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219 | Anoint? | 2 Kin 2:9 | Robert Nicholson | 33750 | ||
Greetings bro. Charis: I agree with Bro. Searcher's last post regarding the "double portion" which is referring to Deut. 21:17 which refers to the custom in which the father would give a double portion which would be a sign to all that his was indeed his firstborn son who would be heir. "He must give the customary double portion to his oldest son, who represents the strength of his father's manhood and who owns the rights of the firstborn son, even though he is the son of the wife his father does not love." Elijah was raised up of the Lord as a prophet. In the old testament the Spirit of God came upon certain people whom God pick out for a specific purpose. Elijah was a spiritual father to Elisha. The parting for Elisha would be painful knowing the man of God would be gone. His concern it would appear was "who will take this prophet's place when he is gone"? In v.9 we see that Elijah trusted Elisha in contrast to the 50 others who simply wanted to see the event and later mocked v.16. Elisha in asking for a double portion was simply asking to be heir to the prophetic office and gifts of his master. We find in V. 10 Elijah made it clear that only God could answer his request. I think however, that we see Elisha's faith as he reaches for the mantle of his master. God had granted his desire and God showed these in a miraculous way. In a sense God had set Elisha apart to be his prophet after Elijah was taken away. The word anoint is from the Hebrew word xXm transliterated "Mashah" is defined as: 1. a) to smear, anoint, spread a liquid. 1. to smear 2. to anoint (as consecration) 3. to anoit, consecrate b) to be anointed ( Strongs # 04886) In Christ Robert |
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220 | Thoughts on Romans 9 | Bible general Archive 1 | Robert Nicholson | 33671 | ||
Brother Curt and others: I have read all the posts thus far, and agree that this subject has been debatable for centuries. Was John Calvin a Calvinist? I enjoyed the idea that the Father by his Spirit draws us to Christ and when we are brought to him, he will not cast us out. In regards to the words of the Lord Jesus which have been referred to previously: "And I, if I be lifted up from the earth will draw (all) men to me."(John 12:32) This was fulfilled in the short term at the cross, when people from all nationalites "stood and watched him there". The interesting thing is that of the responses of those who were brought to the cross. Some wept in sympathy, others reviled, some mocked and the thief asked for mercy. I believe that this saying in the light of calvary has a far more reaching prophecy. Paul in writing to the Philippins reminds them of the incarnation of Christ Jesus, his humility and his ultimate obedience to the death of the cross.(Phil 2:5-8) In verse 9 of the same chapter we read, that because of this (5-8) "God hath highly exalted him and given him a name which is above every name: that at the Name of Jesus every knee should (will) bow and every tongue should (will) confess, that Jesus Christ is Lord to the glory of God the Father" I believe that since Christ died to atone for the sins of the whole world (1 John 2:2) then all are responsible for his death and will be drawn to him in grace and accept his free gift of eternal life, or will reject his offer and will eventually be drawn to him in Judgment. Either way, all will bow and acknowledge that he is Lord to the glory of the Father. In my humble opinion, I believe that Jesus is teaching that the call goes out to the "whosoever" in the following verse: "And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, even so must the Son of Man be lifted up: That whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have eternal life." (John 3: 14-15) Curt, I think that at times the prolem is that puny (speaking of me) humans cannot totally grasp the concept of "God Divine Will and ForeKnowledge" The reason for this I believe, is due to the fact that it is his divine will and foreknowledge and as God he does not have to share it with us. When we try to comprehend it, we usally end up asking questions such as: "is it fair?" or If he knew Why didn't he...?" I think however, that the message of the gospel which God has given to through his Son is very clear. Still pondering Robert |
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