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NASB | John 15:5 "I am the vine, you are the branches; he who abides in Me and I in him, he bears much fruit, for apart from Me you can do nothing. |
AMPLIFIED 2015 | John 15:5 "I am the Vine; you are the branches. The one who remains in Me and I in him bears much fruit, for [otherwise] apart from Me [that is, cut off from vital union with Me] you can do nothing. |
Subject: Human Power? |
Bible Note: Rev 2:7a He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches The passage that you quoted from is part of the Holy Spirit's message to the seven churches mentioned. (Of course these messages are intended to be studied to our benefit as well.) Who were these Churches? The word church, first came into use by Christ Himself. It refers to a collection of believers. Thus, as we are told seven times in Revelation 2:7, 11, 17, 29, 3:6, 13, and 22, these messages are to believers. Rev 3:20 gives the metaphor of Christ knocking at the door. This metaphor has been the subject of paintings and illustrations. Consequently, it has also been used as an evangelical metaphor, just as you have done. Since this message was to saved people, it couldn't possibly be evangelical in nature. Furthermore, we have even more conclusive evidence that it is not evangelical. Take a look at James 5:8-9 which states, "You too be patient; strengthen your hearts, for the coming of the Lord is near. Do not complain, brethren, against one another, so that you yourselves may not be judged; behold, the Judge is standing right at the door." Christ is the Judge. In James we see this is not so much a metaphor as an idiom. So it isn't about evangelism at all. Instead, its about impending judgment. Although appeals to other authorities are much less conclusive than the evidences above, I think you should know that the view that 3:20 is evangelical originates with John Wesley and was furthered by Charles G. Finney. On the other hand, most other orthodox scholars use these passages to encourage believers to renewed diligence in their walk with Christ. Country Girl, you have stated elsewhere that you want scripture, not men's opinion, to guide your understanding. Here is clear scriptural evidence. If you choose to retain your view on decisional regeneration, this verse, at least, should not be used as support for that position. Regarding OSAS I really liked Hank's post. In my opinion he explained things very lucidly. I am complete agreement with his post. Sorry if this sounds too terse... I get rather excited about taking scripture in context and using scripture to clarify scripture. My hearts desire is for all believers to rightly divide the word. |