Hello My Friend/Guest,
Today is Saturday November 13, 2010 and we are continuing our reading through the Bible. Today's message comes from the Book of Acts, chapters 11-13. In these chapters we will read about, Peter speaking to the church at Jerusalem and confirming that salvation is for both Jew and Gentile, the first Christians, Herod having James killed then putting Peter in prison, angles freeing Peter, Herod getting killed, a history lesson given to the Jews, a light to the Gentiles, and God's Word being published for all. If you would like to read today's chapters along with us here online you can Click Here to read them or copy & paste this link onto your browser: imfollowingjesus.com/bible-november-13 All Scripture quoted comes from the King James Version.
Today's Message: Beware of Impostors
You know, if you stop to think about all the people in the world who God has saved and uses to be a testimony you would be pretty shocked. Now, there is a difference between someone who has lived the worldly life and has turned to Christ and someone who remains in the world and just uses His name to become rich. It is sad when you hear of men of God getting arrested and corrupting Christianity, it makes God and all the rest of us look like we are the enemy. The truth is, they are not men of God, they are impostors. Jesus warned us not to believe everyone that speaks in His name, “For there shall arise false Christs, and false prophets, and shall shew great signs and wonders; insomuch that, if it were possible, they shall deceive the very elect.” - Matthew 24:24.
When the Jews heard that the Gospel was being preached to the Gentiles or common people they were upset and confronted Peter as to why he was even talking to them. “And the apostles and brethren that were in Judaea heard that the Gentiles had also received the word of God. And when Peter was come up to Jerusalem, they that were of the circumcision contended with him, Saying, Thou wentest in to men uncircumcised, and didst eat with them....Then remembered I the word of the Lord, how that he said, John indeed baptized with water; but ye shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost. Forasmuch then as God gave them the like gift as he did unto us, who believed on the Lord Jesus Christ; what was I, that I could withstand God? When they heard these things, they held their peace, and glorified God, saying, Then hath God also to the Gentiles granted repentance unto life.” - Acts 11:1-3,16-18.
God never or has ever rejected a person because of their ethnicity, even though He chose the Jews to be His people first, He allowed anyone who believed in Him to be one of His people. “And if a stranger sojourn with thee in your land, ye shall not vex him. But the stranger that dwelleth with you shall be unto you as one born among you, and thou shalt love him as thyself; for ye were strangers in the land of Egypt: I am the LORD your God.” - Leviticus 19:33,34. God is the Lord your God, once you were a stranger, but you have trusted in and accepted His Son and now you are one of His people, a child of God.
When Herod, the king, heard what was going on he was determined to get rid of the apostles, he first killed James, then he had Peter arrested. “And when he had apprehended him, he put him in prison, and delivered him to four quaternions of soldiers to keep him; intending after Easter to bring him forth to the people. Peter therefore was kept in prison: but prayer was made without ceasing of the church unto God for him. And when Herod would have brought him forth, the same night Peter was sleeping between two soldiers, bound with two chains: and the keepers before the door kept the prison. And, behold, the angel of the Lord came upon him, and a light shined in the prison: and he smote Peter on the side, and raised him up, saying, Arise up quickly. And his chains fell off from his hands. And the angel said unto him, Gird thyself, and bind on thy sandals. And so he did. And he saith unto him, Cast thy garment about thee, and follow me.” - Acts 12:4-8.
Herod's main motivation for killing the apostles was just political, many of the Jews were angry that Gentiles were being saved and when they cheered over his having James killed he sought to get the rest because he wanted the glory. Herod's tactics did not work, Peter was freed, and he was later killed himself. Herod is proof that God will not let anyone who harms one of His people go unpunished. “But these, as natural brute beasts, made to be taken and destroyed, speak evil of the things that they understand not; and shall utterly perish in their own corruption;” - II Peter 2:12.
After Herod was killed the word of God grew and multiplied throughout the nation, both Jew and Gentile believed and were saved. Yes, there were Jews that caused trouble because they still thought that salvation was only meant for the Jews, but many were converted when Paul and Barnabas preached the truth. “Then Paul and Barnabas waxed bold, and said, It was necessary that the word of God should first have been spoken to you: but seeing ye put it from you, and judge yourselves unworthy of everlasting life, lo, we turn to the Gentiles. For so hath the Lord commanded us, saying, I have set thee to be a light of the Gentiles, that thou shouldest be for salvation unto the ends of the earth. And when the Gentiles heard this, they were glad, and glorified the word of the Lord: and as many as were ordained to eternal life believed. And the word of the Lord was published throughout all the region.” - Acts 13:46-49.
God published His Word for all to know His truths, we need to beware of the impostors, including books that were written by men or women claiming to explain the Word of God. These people are full of corruption and are deceiving many, who have even been saved. As long as Satan is here on earth no one is exempt from his deception, while he can not take away our salvation he can deceive even us into thinking that a person is a true man or woman representing God. “For many deceivers are entered into the world, who confess not that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh. This is a deceiver and an antichrist.” - II John 1:7.
While I do everything I can to teach the truth, I carry around this flesh too and it can be deceived or misinterpret things as well, I have read and heard some things from others that I thought were truths, quoted them, and found them to be lies. That is why I now, back up everything I say and quote with Scripture. It is important to stay in the Bible, it is our only defense and witness to the truth. You can get some truth out of me, but it does not compare to what God has to say to you personally. “Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand...Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked. And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God:” -Ephesians 6:13,16,17.
Be blessed, enjoy the rest of your day/night and week.
God Bless You, I am praying for you,
Christina
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Saturday, November 13, 2010
Bible Study: Never Counted Out
Hello My Friend/Guest,
Today is Friday November 12, 2010 and we are continuing our reading through the Bible. Today's message comes from the Book of Acts, chapters 9-10. In these chapters we will read about, Saul persecuting Christians, Jesus speaking with Saul, Saul losing his sight for 3 days, then gets saved, baptized, and begins preaching the Gospel himself, Cornelius, Peter, and the assurance that salvation is for both Jew and Gentile. All Scripture quoted comes from the King James Version. If you would like to read today's chapters along with us here online you can Click Here to read them or copy & paste this link onto your browser: imfollowingjesus.com/bible-november-12
Today's Message: Never Counted Out
A vessel is a person regarded as a holder or receiver of something that is non-material. The Bible says, “Nevertheless the foundation of God standeth sure, having this seal, The Lord knoweth them that are his. And, let every one that nameth the name of Christ depart from iniquity....If a man therefore purge himself from these, he shall be a vessel unto honour, sanctified, and meet for the master's use, and prepared unto every good work.” - II Timothy 2:19,21. If you have accepted Christ as your Savior and live your life with Him in it then you are a honor vessel, a holder of the Gospel, meaning Jesus has entrusted you to represent Him with His precious gift, the Gospel to the lost.
While God will save anyone who believes in and trusts in His Son to save them it does not mean that they will all turn from their wicked ways and to Him. I know several people that have been saved and are still as worldly as ever, but we can never count anyone out. God has so much faith in us that He never counts us out, if you truly accepted that you are a sinner, believe in and trust in Jesus Christ, asked Him to forgive you and save you then God will never count you out. If you do not serve Him on earth you will certainly serve Him in heaven. However, that does not stop Him from trying to get you to serve Him here on earth first. “And there shall be no more curse: but the throne of God and of the Lamb shall be in it; and his servants shall serve him:” - Revelation 22:3.
Saul, also known as Paul, despised the name of Jesus and set out to kill anyone, including the apostles and disciples, who preached and taught in His name. Little did he know that Jesus was watching him, and would make him the greatest evangelist of all time, who was accounted for writing most of the Epistles of the New Testament. “And as he journeyed, he came near Damascus: and suddenly there shined round about him a light from heaven: And he fell to the earth, and heard a voice saying unto him, Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou me? And he said, Who art thou, Lord? And the Lord said, I am Jesus whom thou persecutest: it is hard for thee to kick against the pricks. And he trembling and astonished said, Lord, what wilt thou have me to do? And the Lord said unto him, Arise, and go into the city, and it shall be told thee what thou must do. And Saul arose from the earth; and when his eyes were opened, he saw no man: but they led him by the hand, and brought him into Damascus.” - Acts 9:3-6,8.
The phrase “kick against the pricks” means that Saul was resisting the facts and authority of God. Every time he taunted and killed one of Jesus' disciples he was persecuting or crucifying Jesus all over again. Every person that persecutes a follower of Christ is resisting the authority of God and crucifies Jesus all over again. You can not believe in God and not in Jesus Christ, doing so always goes against His authority. The Bible is our authority and any person denies Christ he is going against authority because He is the Word made flesh. “And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth.” -John 1:14.
When Saul arrived in Damascus he was met by a man named Ananias, Ananias knew Saul's reputation and was a little scared to approach him, but Jesus assured Him that everything was going to work out. “Then Ananias answered, Lord, I have heard by many of this man, how much evil he hath done to thy saints at Jerusalem: And here he hath authority from the chief priests to bind all that call on thy name. But the Lord said unto him, Go thy way: for he is a chosen vessel unto me, to bear my name before the Gentiles, and kings, and the children of Israel: For I will shew him how great things he must suffer for my name's sake. And Ananias went his way, and entered into the house; and putting his hands on him said, Brother Saul, the Lord, even Jesus, that appeared unto thee in the way as thou camest, hath sent me, that thou mightest receive thy sight, and be filled with the Holy Ghost. And immediately there fell from his eyes as it had been scales: and he received sight forthwith, and arose, and was baptized.” -Acts 9:13-18.
Jesus chose one of the most ruthless people to be a witness to Him. Why? To prove that everyone, even the most ruthless Jesus hater, can be saved and used as a vessel. Paul was saved and never stopped preaching the Gospel to the lost and became a witness to all nations that even a murderer can be saved, turn his life around, and used of God as a testimony. God never counts anyone out. “For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.” - Romans 10:13.
It is understandable to get upset at those who harm us or our loved ones, but anger, bitterness, and vengeance gets us no where, except even more anger and bitterness. Instead of trying to deal with the heartache on our own give it over to Jesus and He will give you peace. Remember, God will not let anyone go unpunished. Jesus saved Paul, but he did suffer much for His sake. “If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men. Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but rather give place unto wrath: for it is written, Vengeance is mine; I will repay, saith the Lord. Therefore if thine enemy hunger, feed him; if he thirst, give him drink: for in so doing thou shalt heap coals of fire on his head. Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good.” -Romans 12:18-21.
God uses every situation to strengthen us, grow us, and help us get closer to Him. Go ahead, get angry, but let go and let God take care of it. “But unto every one of us is given grace according to the measure of the gift of Christ...Be ye angry, and sin not: let not the sun go down upon your wrath:..And grieve not the holy Spirit of God, whereby ye are sealed unto the day of redemption. Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamour, and evil speaking, be put away from you, with all malice: And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you.” -Ephesians 4:7,26,30-32.
Be blessed, enjoy the rest of your day/night and have an awesome weekend.
God Bless You, I am praying for you,
Christina
Are You 100% Sure That You Are Going to Heaven? godsprice.com
Visit The I'm Following Jesus Website imfollowingjesus.com
Want To Receive This Devotion in Your Email?
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Today is Friday November 12, 2010 and we are continuing our reading through the Bible. Today's message comes from the Book of Acts, chapters 9-10. In these chapters we will read about, Saul persecuting Christians, Jesus speaking with Saul, Saul losing his sight for 3 days, then gets saved, baptized, and begins preaching the Gospel himself, Cornelius, Peter, and the assurance that salvation is for both Jew and Gentile. All Scripture quoted comes from the King James Version. If you would like to read today's chapters along with us here online you can Click Here to read them or copy & paste this link onto your browser: imfollowingjesus.com/bible-november-12
Today's Message: Never Counted Out
A vessel is a person regarded as a holder or receiver of something that is non-material. The Bible says, “Nevertheless the foundation of God standeth sure, having this seal, The Lord knoweth them that are his. And, let every one that nameth the name of Christ depart from iniquity....If a man therefore purge himself from these, he shall be a vessel unto honour, sanctified, and meet for the master's use, and prepared unto every good work.” - II Timothy 2:19,21. If you have accepted Christ as your Savior and live your life with Him in it then you are a honor vessel, a holder of the Gospel, meaning Jesus has entrusted you to represent Him with His precious gift, the Gospel to the lost.
While God will save anyone who believes in and trusts in His Son to save them it does not mean that they will all turn from their wicked ways and to Him. I know several people that have been saved and are still as worldly as ever, but we can never count anyone out. God has so much faith in us that He never counts us out, if you truly accepted that you are a sinner, believe in and trust in Jesus Christ, asked Him to forgive you and save you then God will never count you out. If you do not serve Him on earth you will certainly serve Him in heaven. However, that does not stop Him from trying to get you to serve Him here on earth first. “And there shall be no more curse: but the throne of God and of the Lamb shall be in it; and his servants shall serve him:” - Revelation 22:3.
Saul, also known as Paul, despised the name of Jesus and set out to kill anyone, including the apostles and disciples, who preached and taught in His name. Little did he know that Jesus was watching him, and would make him the greatest evangelist of all time, who was accounted for writing most of the Epistles of the New Testament. “And as he journeyed, he came near Damascus: and suddenly there shined round about him a light from heaven: And he fell to the earth, and heard a voice saying unto him, Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou me? And he said, Who art thou, Lord? And the Lord said, I am Jesus whom thou persecutest: it is hard for thee to kick against the pricks. And he trembling and astonished said, Lord, what wilt thou have me to do? And the Lord said unto him, Arise, and go into the city, and it shall be told thee what thou must do. And Saul arose from the earth; and when his eyes were opened, he saw no man: but they led him by the hand, and brought him into Damascus.” - Acts 9:3-6,8.
The phrase “kick against the pricks” means that Saul was resisting the facts and authority of God. Every time he taunted and killed one of Jesus' disciples he was persecuting or crucifying Jesus all over again. Every person that persecutes a follower of Christ is resisting the authority of God and crucifies Jesus all over again. You can not believe in God and not in Jesus Christ, doing so always goes against His authority. The Bible is our authority and any person denies Christ he is going against authority because He is the Word made flesh. “And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth.” -John 1:14.
When Saul arrived in Damascus he was met by a man named Ananias, Ananias knew Saul's reputation and was a little scared to approach him, but Jesus assured Him that everything was going to work out. “Then Ananias answered, Lord, I have heard by many of this man, how much evil he hath done to thy saints at Jerusalem: And here he hath authority from the chief priests to bind all that call on thy name. But the Lord said unto him, Go thy way: for he is a chosen vessel unto me, to bear my name before the Gentiles, and kings, and the children of Israel: For I will shew him how great things he must suffer for my name's sake. And Ananias went his way, and entered into the house; and putting his hands on him said, Brother Saul, the Lord, even Jesus, that appeared unto thee in the way as thou camest, hath sent me, that thou mightest receive thy sight, and be filled with the Holy Ghost. And immediately there fell from his eyes as it had been scales: and he received sight forthwith, and arose, and was baptized.” -Acts 9:13-18.
Jesus chose one of the most ruthless people to be a witness to Him. Why? To prove that everyone, even the most ruthless Jesus hater, can be saved and used as a vessel. Paul was saved and never stopped preaching the Gospel to the lost and became a witness to all nations that even a murderer can be saved, turn his life around, and used of God as a testimony. God never counts anyone out. “For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.” - Romans 10:13.
It is understandable to get upset at those who harm us or our loved ones, but anger, bitterness, and vengeance gets us no where, except even more anger and bitterness. Instead of trying to deal with the heartache on our own give it over to Jesus and He will give you peace. Remember, God will not let anyone go unpunished. Jesus saved Paul, but he did suffer much for His sake. “If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men. Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but rather give place unto wrath: for it is written, Vengeance is mine; I will repay, saith the Lord. Therefore if thine enemy hunger, feed him; if he thirst, give him drink: for in so doing thou shalt heap coals of fire on his head. Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good.” -Romans 12:18-21.
God uses every situation to strengthen us, grow us, and help us get closer to Him. Go ahead, get angry, but let go and let God take care of it. “But unto every one of us is given grace according to the measure of the gift of Christ...Be ye angry, and sin not: let not the sun go down upon your wrath:..And grieve not the holy Spirit of God, whereby ye are sealed unto the day of redemption. Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamour, and evil speaking, be put away from you, with all malice: And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you.” -Ephesians 4:7,26,30-32.
Be blessed, enjoy the rest of your day/night and have an awesome weekend.
God Bless You, I am praying for you,
Christina
Are You 100% Sure That You Are Going to Heaven? godsprice.com
Visit The I'm Following Jesus Website imfollowingjesus.com
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Friday, November 12, 2010
Bible Study: The Persecution of Freedom
Hello My Friend/Guest,
Today is Thursday November 11, 2010 and we are continuing our reading through the Bible. Today's message comes from the Book of Acts, chapters 7-8. In these chapters we will read about, Stephen pleading his case, Stephen reminding them who they are and that they crucified Jesus, Stephen sentenced to death, Saul persecuting Christians, Simon, the sorcerer, Samaria walking away from sorcery and getting saved, and Philip and the Ethiopian man. All Scripture quoted comes from the King James Version. If you would like to read today's chapters along with us here online you can Click Here to read them or copy & paste this link onto your browser: imfollowingjesus.com/bible-november-11
Today's Message: The Persecution of Freedom
If you are reading this you truly have no idea how blessed you are to have the freedom to read God's Word without persecution. Many countries, even today, forbid the Word of God to be read, practiced, and preached, you can literally go to jail for mentioning the name Jesus Christ. How and Why? Religion. Somehow religious leaders even have control over the government to the point that they make rules forbidding the practice of other religions. Whether they want to realize it or not evolution is a religion, a religion is the body of persons adhering to a particular set of beliefs and practices and the religious leaders of evolution are controlling the government. “For there are certain men crept in unawares, who were before of old ordained to this condemnation, ungodly men, turning the grace of our God into lasciviousness, and denying the only Lord God, and our Lord Jesus Christ...These are murmurers, complainers, walking after their own lusts; and their mouth speaketh great swelling words, having men's persons in admiration because of advantage.” - Jude 1:4,16.
Stephen was a deacon in the church at Jerusalem who knew well the Old Testament Scriptures. He boldly reminded the unbelieving authorities that he is a son of Abraham, and values himself on it. Then he reminds them of their rebellion, “Ye stiffnecked and uncircumcised in heart and ears, ye do always resist the Holy Ghost: as your fathers did, so do ye. Which of the prophets have not your fathers persecuted? and they have slain them which shewed before of the coming of the Just One; of whom ye have been now the betrayers and murderers: Who have received the law by the disposition of angels, and have not kept it. When they heard these things, they were cut to the heart, and they gnashed on him with their teeth. But he, being full of the Holy Ghost, looked up stedfastly into heaven, and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing on the right hand of God, And said, Behold, I see the heavens opened, and the Son of man standing on the right hand of God. Then they cried out with a loud voice, and stopped their ears, and ran upon him with one accord, And cast him out of the city, and stoned him: and the witnesses laid down their clothes at a young man's feet, whose name was Saul.” - Acts 7:51-58. Stephen was charged as a blasphemer of God, he could have avoided death by saying nothing, but he made it clear that the religious authorities were responsible for crucifying Jesus, the Just One.
While we should have respect for our authorities it does not mean that they have the right to condemn us and restrain us from practicing our beliefs, yet they do every time a new law is passed that prohibits us from mentioning God or Jesus. Think about it. Currently, the Bible can not be read in public schools, they are not even allowed to say Merry Christmas, and no symbol even relating to Jesus is allowed on government property. They tell you that the reason they do this is so they do not offend anyone, but the real reason is, they are offended themselves because they do not want to submit to God. “Professing themselves to be wise, they became fools,...Being filled with all unrighteousness, fornication, wickedness, covetousness, maliciousness; full of envy, murder, debate, deceit, malignity; whisperers, Backbiters, haters of God, despiteful, proud, boasters, inventors of evil things, disobedient to parents, Without understanding, covenantbreakers, without natural affection, implacable, unmerciful: Who knowing the judgment of God, that they which commit such things are worthy of death, not only do the same, but have pleasure in them that do them.” - Romans 12:22,29-32.
After Philip saw Stephen get stoned he could have walked away, instead he continued preaching the Gospel. Everyone that heard him paid attention to every word he said, accepted Jesus into their lives, and got baptized, including Simon, the sorcerer. “But there was a certain man, called Simon, which beforetime in the same city used sorcery, and bewitched the people of Samaria, giving out that himself was some great one:...But when they believed Philip preaching the things concerning the kingdom of God, and the name of Jesus Christ, they were baptized, both men and women. Then Simon himself believed also: and when he was baptized, he continued with Philip, and wondered, beholding the miracles and signs which were done.” - Acts 8:9,12,13.
Philip was then led by the Holy Spirit to meet an Ethiopian official on his way home. “And he said, How can I, except some man should guide me? And he desired Philip that he would come up and sit with him...Then Philip opened his mouth, and began at the same scripture, and preached unto him Jesus. And as they went on their way, they came unto a certain water: and the eunuch said, See, here is water; what doth hinder me to be baptized? And Philip said, If thou believest with all thine heart, thou mayest. And he answered and said, I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God. And he commanded the chariot to stand still: and they went down both into the water, both Philip and the eunuch; and he baptized him.” - Acts 8:31,35-38.
Baptism is a symbol of the burial, and resurrection of Christ, as a saved person emerges in the water it symbolizes the burial of those sins, never to be remembered again. As we come up out of the water we are resurrected as a living soul. Baptism does not save us, it is only by asking Jesus to save us that we are saved, baptism just makes it official. “Buried with him in baptism, wherein also ye are risen with him through the faith of the operation of God, who hath raised him from the dead.” - Colossians 2:12
As Christians, it is important that we not be afraid of or ashamed of living our lives for and speaking about our Lord Jesus Christ. The more we do for Christ the more He shows through us, the more He shows through us the more others see that they too need Christ. It's all about following the will of God and believing in His Son, after all, we have nothing to be worried about because we have eternal life. “And this is the record, that God hath given to us eternal life, and this life is in his Son. He that hath the Son hath life; and he that hath not the Son of God hath not life.” - I John 5:11,12. Praise God!
Be blessed, enjoy the rest of your day/night and week.
God Bless You, I am praying for you,
Christina
Are You 100% Sure That You Are Going to Heaven? godsprice.com
Visit The I'm Following Jesus Website imfollowingjesus.com
Want To Receive This Devotion in Your Email?
Subscribe By Sending A Blank Email With the Subject Subscribe to: devotions@imfollowingjesus.com
Today is Thursday November 11, 2010 and we are continuing our reading through the Bible. Today's message comes from the Book of Acts, chapters 7-8. In these chapters we will read about, Stephen pleading his case, Stephen reminding them who they are and that they crucified Jesus, Stephen sentenced to death, Saul persecuting Christians, Simon, the sorcerer, Samaria walking away from sorcery and getting saved, and Philip and the Ethiopian man. All Scripture quoted comes from the King James Version. If you would like to read today's chapters along with us here online you can Click Here to read them or copy & paste this link onto your browser: imfollowingjesus.com/bible-november-11
Today's Message: The Persecution of Freedom
If you are reading this you truly have no idea how blessed you are to have the freedom to read God's Word without persecution. Many countries, even today, forbid the Word of God to be read, practiced, and preached, you can literally go to jail for mentioning the name Jesus Christ. How and Why? Religion. Somehow religious leaders even have control over the government to the point that they make rules forbidding the practice of other religions. Whether they want to realize it or not evolution is a religion, a religion is the body of persons adhering to a particular set of beliefs and practices and the religious leaders of evolution are controlling the government. “For there are certain men crept in unawares, who were before of old ordained to this condemnation, ungodly men, turning the grace of our God into lasciviousness, and denying the only Lord God, and our Lord Jesus Christ...These are murmurers, complainers, walking after their own lusts; and their mouth speaketh great swelling words, having men's persons in admiration because of advantage.” - Jude 1:4,16.
Stephen was a deacon in the church at Jerusalem who knew well the Old Testament Scriptures. He boldly reminded the unbelieving authorities that he is a son of Abraham, and values himself on it. Then he reminds them of their rebellion, “Ye stiffnecked and uncircumcised in heart and ears, ye do always resist the Holy Ghost: as your fathers did, so do ye. Which of the prophets have not your fathers persecuted? and they have slain them which shewed before of the coming of the Just One; of whom ye have been now the betrayers and murderers: Who have received the law by the disposition of angels, and have not kept it. When they heard these things, they were cut to the heart, and they gnashed on him with their teeth. But he, being full of the Holy Ghost, looked up stedfastly into heaven, and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing on the right hand of God, And said, Behold, I see the heavens opened, and the Son of man standing on the right hand of God. Then they cried out with a loud voice, and stopped their ears, and ran upon him with one accord, And cast him out of the city, and stoned him: and the witnesses laid down their clothes at a young man's feet, whose name was Saul.” - Acts 7:51-58. Stephen was charged as a blasphemer of God, he could have avoided death by saying nothing, but he made it clear that the religious authorities were responsible for crucifying Jesus, the Just One.
While we should have respect for our authorities it does not mean that they have the right to condemn us and restrain us from practicing our beliefs, yet they do every time a new law is passed that prohibits us from mentioning God or Jesus. Think about it. Currently, the Bible can not be read in public schools, they are not even allowed to say Merry Christmas, and no symbol even relating to Jesus is allowed on government property. They tell you that the reason they do this is so they do not offend anyone, but the real reason is, they are offended themselves because they do not want to submit to God. “Professing themselves to be wise, they became fools,...Being filled with all unrighteousness, fornication, wickedness, covetousness, maliciousness; full of envy, murder, debate, deceit, malignity; whisperers, Backbiters, haters of God, despiteful, proud, boasters, inventors of evil things, disobedient to parents, Without understanding, covenantbreakers, without natural affection, implacable, unmerciful: Who knowing the judgment of God, that they which commit such things are worthy of death, not only do the same, but have pleasure in them that do them.” - Romans 12:22,29-32.
After Philip saw Stephen get stoned he could have walked away, instead he continued preaching the Gospel. Everyone that heard him paid attention to every word he said, accepted Jesus into their lives, and got baptized, including Simon, the sorcerer. “But there was a certain man, called Simon, which beforetime in the same city used sorcery, and bewitched the people of Samaria, giving out that himself was some great one:...But when they believed Philip preaching the things concerning the kingdom of God, and the name of Jesus Christ, they were baptized, both men and women. Then Simon himself believed also: and when he was baptized, he continued with Philip, and wondered, beholding the miracles and signs which were done.” - Acts 8:9,12,13.
Philip was then led by the Holy Spirit to meet an Ethiopian official on his way home. “And he said, How can I, except some man should guide me? And he desired Philip that he would come up and sit with him...Then Philip opened his mouth, and began at the same scripture, and preached unto him Jesus. And as they went on their way, they came unto a certain water: and the eunuch said, See, here is water; what doth hinder me to be baptized? And Philip said, If thou believest with all thine heart, thou mayest. And he answered and said, I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God. And he commanded the chariot to stand still: and they went down both into the water, both Philip and the eunuch; and he baptized him.” - Acts 8:31,35-38.
Baptism is a symbol of the burial, and resurrection of Christ, as a saved person emerges in the water it symbolizes the burial of those sins, never to be remembered again. As we come up out of the water we are resurrected as a living soul. Baptism does not save us, it is only by asking Jesus to save us that we are saved, baptism just makes it official. “Buried with him in baptism, wherein also ye are risen with him through the faith of the operation of God, who hath raised him from the dead.” - Colossians 2:12
As Christians, it is important that we not be afraid of or ashamed of living our lives for and speaking about our Lord Jesus Christ. The more we do for Christ the more He shows through us, the more He shows through us the more others see that they too need Christ. It's all about following the will of God and believing in His Son, after all, we have nothing to be worried about because we have eternal life. “And this is the record, that God hath given to us eternal life, and this life is in his Son. He that hath the Son hath life; and he that hath not the Son of God hath not life.” - I John 5:11,12. Praise God!
Be blessed, enjoy the rest of your day/night and week.
God Bless You, I am praying for you,
Christina
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Wednesday, November 10, 2010
Bible Study: Be Bold
Hello My Friend/Guest,
Today is Wednesday November 10, 2010 and we are continuing our reading through the Bible. Today's message comes from the Book of Acts, chapters 4-6. In these chapters we will read about, Peter and John getting arrested, believers sharing their possessions; Ananias and Sapphira lying to God, and Stephen. All Scripture quoted comes from the King James Version. If you would like to read today's chapters along with us here online you can Click Here to read them or copy & paste this link onto your browser: imfollowingjesus.com/bible-november-10
Today's Message: Be Bold
The word bold is defined as not hesitating or fearful in the face of actual or possible danger. The Bible says, “Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee. So that we may boldly say, The Lord is my helper, and I will not fear what man shall do unto me.” Hebrews 13:5,6. The word covetousness means to wrongly desire wealth or to be excessively greedy. In other words, as Christians, we are not to think of ways in which we can obtain the things we desire deceitfully. If we are content with what we have at present, knowing that it comes from God we know that He will continue to provide for us. We can see God giving us the things we desire because we seek them honestly and not hesitating to say that they come from God.
You know, when Peter realized that he denied that he knew Jesus when Jesus was being persecuted he felt so ashamed that he did not think Jesus would ever forgive him. Imagine his surprise after Jesus arose and gave him the task of being the one who would lead many to preach the Gospel? Three days later, after Jesus ascended up to heaven, on the day of Pentecost, Peter boldly preached the Gospel and 3000 people were saved and baptized. However, shortly after that Peter and John got arrested for preaching that same reason. “And as they spake unto the people, the priests, and the captain of the temple, and the Sadducees, came upon them, Being grieved that they taught the people, and preached through Jesus the resurrection from the dead. And they laid hands on them, and put them in hold unto the next day: for it was now eventide. Howbeit many of them which heard the word believed; and the number of the men was about five thousand.” - Acts 4:1-4.
My church goes soul winning on Thursday's, at times we can go a few weeks without seeing anyone saved, but on the most dreadful and rainy nights we will see several trust Christ as their Savior. Sure, we get persecuted and at times we get people trying to silence us, but nothing is more exciting and uplifting than to see a person bow their head and trust in Christ to save them. We are doing God's work and we are going to face persecution, but God is always with us and will bless us for boldly preaching the Gospel. “Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword?.. For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.” - Romans 8:35,38,39.
The Sadducees were determined to deter the apostles from preaching the Gospel of Christ, but the more they tried to stop them the more people got saved. The elders asked by what power or authority they were given to preach this way. Peter responded, “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, even by him doth this man stand here before you whole. This is the stone which was set at nought of you builders, which is become the head of the corner. Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved. Now when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived that they were unlearned and ignorant men, they marvelled; and they took knowledge of them, that they had been with Jesus...And they called them, and commanded them not to speak at all nor teach in the name of Jesus.” - Acts 4:10-13,18.
If God wants you to preach the Gospel to someone He will stop at nothing to get you to that person. On their second attempt to arrest and silence them, the Sadducees thought they had finally stopped them, little to their surprise it did not. “But the angel of the Lord by night opened the prison doors, and brought them forth, and said, Go, stand and speak in the temple to the people all the words of this life. And when they heard that, they entered into the temple early in the morning, and taught. But the high priest came, and they that were with him, and called the council together, and all the senate of the children of Israel, and sent to the prison to have them brought...And when they had brought them, they set them before the council: and the high priest asked them, Saying, Did not we straitly command you that ye should not teach in this name? and, behold, ye have filled Jerusalem with your doctrine, and intend to bring this man's blood upon us. Then Peter and the other apostles answered and said, We ought to obey God rather than men.” - Acts 5:19-21,27-29.
The words of life, which the Holy Spirit puts into your mouth, are the words spoken of the Gospel, whereby that we may be saved. There is no prison so dark, so strong, that God can not visit His people in it, and, if He pleases, fetch them out. Recoveries from sickness, releases out of trouble, are granted, not that we may enjoy the comforts of life, but that God may be honored with the services of our lives. Peter and John were honored to even be beaten for Jesus. “And they departed from the presence of the council, rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer shame for his name. And daily in the temple, and in every house, they ceased not to teach and preach Jesus Christ.” - Acts 5:41,42.
Because we believe in and accept Jesus Christ as our Savior, we are going to face some trials in life, but it is important that we be bold and stand by our faith in and trust in Jesus Christ. If God gives you the opportunity to tell the Gospel to someone, do not cease from it, you may never see that person again. “Those things, which ye have both learned, and received, and heard, and seen in me, do: and the God of peace shall be with you.” - Philippians 4:9.
We have been given the wonderful gift of eternal life, it is something that will never compare to anything we will ever receive here on earth. Just imagine how much more wonderful the gifts will be that we will receive in heaven because we endured the suffering, pain, and humiliation that went long with holding on to our faith. “Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you: But rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ's sufferings; that, when his glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy.” - I Peter 4:12,13. Praise God!
Be blessed, enjoy the rest of your day/night and week.
God Bless You, I am praying for you,
Christina
Are You 100% Sure That You Are Going to Heaven? godsprice.com
Visit The I'm Following Jesus Website imfollowingjesus.com
Want To Receive This Devotion in Your Email?
Subscribe By Sending A Blank Email With the Subject Subscribe to: devotions@imfollowingjesus.com
Today is Wednesday November 10, 2010 and we are continuing our reading through the Bible. Today's message comes from the Book of Acts, chapters 4-6. In these chapters we will read about, Peter and John getting arrested, believers sharing their possessions; Ananias and Sapphira lying to God, and Stephen. All Scripture quoted comes from the King James Version. If you would like to read today's chapters along with us here online you can Click Here to read them or copy & paste this link onto your browser: imfollowingjesus.com/bible-november-10
Today's Message: Be Bold
The word bold is defined as not hesitating or fearful in the face of actual or possible danger. The Bible says, “Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee. So that we may boldly say, The Lord is my helper, and I will not fear what man shall do unto me.” Hebrews 13:5,6. The word covetousness means to wrongly desire wealth or to be excessively greedy. In other words, as Christians, we are not to think of ways in which we can obtain the things we desire deceitfully. If we are content with what we have at present, knowing that it comes from God we know that He will continue to provide for us. We can see God giving us the things we desire because we seek them honestly and not hesitating to say that they come from God.
You know, when Peter realized that he denied that he knew Jesus when Jesus was being persecuted he felt so ashamed that he did not think Jesus would ever forgive him. Imagine his surprise after Jesus arose and gave him the task of being the one who would lead many to preach the Gospel? Three days later, after Jesus ascended up to heaven, on the day of Pentecost, Peter boldly preached the Gospel and 3000 people were saved and baptized. However, shortly after that Peter and John got arrested for preaching that same reason. “And as they spake unto the people, the priests, and the captain of the temple, and the Sadducees, came upon them, Being grieved that they taught the people, and preached through Jesus the resurrection from the dead. And they laid hands on them, and put them in hold unto the next day: for it was now eventide. Howbeit many of them which heard the word believed; and the number of the men was about five thousand.” - Acts 4:1-4.
My church goes soul winning on Thursday's, at times we can go a few weeks without seeing anyone saved, but on the most dreadful and rainy nights we will see several trust Christ as their Savior. Sure, we get persecuted and at times we get people trying to silence us, but nothing is more exciting and uplifting than to see a person bow their head and trust in Christ to save them. We are doing God's work and we are going to face persecution, but God is always with us and will bless us for boldly preaching the Gospel. “Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword?.. For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.” - Romans 8:35,38,39.
The Sadducees were determined to deter the apostles from preaching the Gospel of Christ, but the more they tried to stop them the more people got saved. The elders asked by what power or authority they were given to preach this way. Peter responded, “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, even by him doth this man stand here before you whole. This is the stone which was set at nought of you builders, which is become the head of the corner. Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved. Now when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived that they were unlearned and ignorant men, they marvelled; and they took knowledge of them, that they had been with Jesus...And they called them, and commanded them not to speak at all nor teach in the name of Jesus.” - Acts 4:10-13,18.
If God wants you to preach the Gospel to someone He will stop at nothing to get you to that person. On their second attempt to arrest and silence them, the Sadducees thought they had finally stopped them, little to their surprise it did not. “But the angel of the Lord by night opened the prison doors, and brought them forth, and said, Go, stand and speak in the temple to the people all the words of this life. And when they heard that, they entered into the temple early in the morning, and taught. But the high priest came, and they that were with him, and called the council together, and all the senate of the children of Israel, and sent to the prison to have them brought...And when they had brought them, they set them before the council: and the high priest asked them, Saying, Did not we straitly command you that ye should not teach in this name? and, behold, ye have filled Jerusalem with your doctrine, and intend to bring this man's blood upon us. Then Peter and the other apostles answered and said, We ought to obey God rather than men.” - Acts 5:19-21,27-29.
The words of life, which the Holy Spirit puts into your mouth, are the words spoken of the Gospel, whereby that we may be saved. There is no prison so dark, so strong, that God can not visit His people in it, and, if He pleases, fetch them out. Recoveries from sickness, releases out of trouble, are granted, not that we may enjoy the comforts of life, but that God may be honored with the services of our lives. Peter and John were honored to even be beaten for Jesus. “And they departed from the presence of the council, rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer shame for his name. And daily in the temple, and in every house, they ceased not to teach and preach Jesus Christ.” - Acts 5:41,42.
Because we believe in and accept Jesus Christ as our Savior, we are going to face some trials in life, but it is important that we be bold and stand by our faith in and trust in Jesus Christ. If God gives you the opportunity to tell the Gospel to someone, do not cease from it, you may never see that person again. “Those things, which ye have both learned, and received, and heard, and seen in me, do: and the God of peace shall be with you.” - Philippians 4:9.
We have been given the wonderful gift of eternal life, it is something that will never compare to anything we will ever receive here on earth. Just imagine how much more wonderful the gifts will be that we will receive in heaven because we endured the suffering, pain, and humiliation that went long with holding on to our faith. “Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you: But rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ's sufferings; that, when his glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy.” - I Peter 4:12,13. Praise God!
Be blessed, enjoy the rest of your day/night and week.
God Bless You, I am praying for you,
Christina
Are You 100% Sure That You Are Going to Heaven? godsprice.com
Visit The I'm Following Jesus Website imfollowingjesus.com
Want To Receive This Devotion in Your Email?
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Tuesday, November 9, 2010
Bible Study: The Holy Spirit
Hello My Friend/Guest,
Today is Tuesday November 09, 2010 and we are continuing our reading through the Bible. Today's message comes from the Book of Acts, chapters 1-3. In these chapters we will read about, Jesus' ascension and promise of His return, Matthias is chosen to replace Judas, the Holy Spirit coming upon all believers at Pentecost, the Apostles speaking in tongues, Peter's sermon, and 3000 people get saved and baptized. All Scripture quoted comes from the King James Version. If you would like to read today's chapters along with us here online you can Click Here to read them or copy & paste this link onto your browser: imfollowingjesus.com/bible-november-9
Today's Message: The Holy Spirit
The Book of Acts is the fifth book of the New Testament, forty-fourth book of the Bible, and contains twenty-eight chapters. The author of the book is Luke and it was written to all believers, addressed specifically as Theophilus, which means, a lover of God. The purpose of the book was to explain what Jesus continued to do and teach after His ascension through His spiritual Body, the Church. What we are to learn from the book is that the true evidence of the Holy Spirit is directed by the power of God. The power to become witnesses for the purpose of extending the Gospel throughout the entire world. “And it shall come to pass, that whosoever shall call on the name of the Lord shall be saved.” - Acts 2:21.
Did you ever wonder why there are so many different versions of the Bible? Bible scholars will tell you that they created them to help you understand what God is trying to tell them for the current generation. I use the King James Version because it is the closest English version to all of God's Word, many will debate me, but I have done the research and seen the difference, it's not about removing the thees and thous, it's about removing great truths that we are in need of. Every time a new version of the Bible is created at least 20% of God's Word is taken away from, altered, or added to it in order to comply with copy write laws, which means every time one is created you are getting less and less of God's Word and more of their own. Many versions eliminate hell from the pages, but the truth is this, they can try and alter God's Word in a book, but they can not alter His truths, no matter how many versions they make. Hell is real and unless they are saved that is where they are going. “For I testify unto every man that heareth the words of the prophecy of this book, If any man shall add unto these things, God shall add unto him the plagues that are written in this book: And if any man shall take away from the words of the book of this prophecy, God shall take away his part out of the book of life, and out of the holy city, and from the things which are written in this book.” - Revelation 22:18,19.
So, how do you know that the version you are reading contains all of God's Word? The only way we can known and understand what I have just said to be true is through the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit is who teaches us to understand what these scholars claim are confusing to the common people and eliminate from the Bible. “Wherefore I give you to understand, that no man speaking by the Spirit of God calleth Jesus accursed: and that no man can say that Jesus is the Lord, but by the Holy Ghost...For by one Spirit are we all baptized into one body, whether we be Jews or Gentiles, whether we be bond or free; and have been all made to drink into one Spirit.” - I Corinthians 12:3,13.
So, how do we receive the Holy Spirit? Jesus explained this before He ascended up to heaven. “And, being assembled together with them, commanded them that they should not depart from Jerusalem, but wait for the promise of the Father, which, saith he, ye have heard of me. For John truly baptized with water; but ye shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost not many days hence. And he said unto them, It is not for you to know the times or the seasons, which the Father hath put in his own power. But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.” - Acts 1:4,5,7,8.
Jesus said, quoting from John the Baptist, “For John truly baptized with water; but ye shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost not many days hence.” What He was saying was that in a few days you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit, which will give you the power to be my witnesses to everyone on earth. Three days later the Holy Spirit did arrive, on the day which is known as Pentecost and everyone the believed in Jesus received the Holy Ghost. “And suddenly there came a sound from heaven as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled all the house where they were sitting. And there appeared unto them cloven tongues like as of fire, and it sat upon each of them. And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance. And there were dwelling at Jerusalem Jews, devout men, out of every nation under heaven..And they were all amazed, and were in doubt, saying one to another, What meaneth this? Others mocking said, These men are full of new wine. But Peter, standing up with the eleven, lifted up his voice, and said unto them, Ye men of Judaea, and all ye that dwell at Jerusalem, be this known unto you, and hearken to my words:...And it shall come to pass in the last days, saith God, I will pour out of my Spirit upon all flesh: and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, and your young men shall see visions, and your old men shall dream dreams:...And it shall come to pass, that whosoever shall call on the name of the Lord shall be saved.” - Acts 2:2-5,12-14,17,21.
The Holy Spirit moves into everyone who calls on Jesus to be saved, and it is the Holy Spirit that teaches us God's Word and to be witnesses for others to be saved. I grew up like most Christians, I knew that Christmas was Jesus' birthday, Good Friday was the day He died, and Easter was the day He resurrected, but did I understand it? No, I did not. I spent years following Lent and trying to be good so I wouldn't die and go to hell, but the truth is, it did not matter if I observed these days or was good, if I would have died then I would have gone to hell. How do I know? I was not saved, I did not know Jesus as my Savior. The only way to escape hell is by calling on Jesus to save us. “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.” - Romans 10:9.
As Christians, we are to follow in Christ's footsteps, to teach the Gospel to all who do not know it, to be the example that people look for to trust in the Savior. The only way to understand the true Gospel is through all of God's Word and the Holy Spirit teaching us. “And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful. Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord. And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him.” - Colossians 3:15-17.
Be blessed, enjoy the rest of your day/night and week.
God Bless You, I am praying for you,
Christina
Are You 100% Sure That You Are Going to Heaven? godsprice.com
Visit The I'm Following Jesus Website imfollowingjesus.com
Want To Receive This Devotion in Your Email?
Subscribe By Sending A Blank Email With the Subject Subscribe to: devotions@imfollowingjesus.com
Today is Tuesday November 09, 2010 and we are continuing our reading through the Bible. Today's message comes from the Book of Acts, chapters 1-3. In these chapters we will read about, Jesus' ascension and promise of His return, Matthias is chosen to replace Judas, the Holy Spirit coming upon all believers at Pentecost, the Apostles speaking in tongues, Peter's sermon, and 3000 people get saved and baptized. All Scripture quoted comes from the King James Version. If you would like to read today's chapters along with us here online you can Click Here to read them or copy & paste this link onto your browser: imfollowingjesus.com/bible-november-9
Today's Message: The Holy Spirit
The Book of Acts is the fifth book of the New Testament, forty-fourth book of the Bible, and contains twenty-eight chapters. The author of the book is Luke and it was written to all believers, addressed specifically as Theophilus, which means, a lover of God. The purpose of the book was to explain what Jesus continued to do and teach after His ascension through His spiritual Body, the Church. What we are to learn from the book is that the true evidence of the Holy Spirit is directed by the power of God. The power to become witnesses for the purpose of extending the Gospel throughout the entire world. “And it shall come to pass, that whosoever shall call on the name of the Lord shall be saved.” - Acts 2:21.
Did you ever wonder why there are so many different versions of the Bible? Bible scholars will tell you that they created them to help you understand what God is trying to tell them for the current generation. I use the King James Version because it is the closest English version to all of God's Word, many will debate me, but I have done the research and seen the difference, it's not about removing the thees and thous, it's about removing great truths that we are in need of. Every time a new version of the Bible is created at least 20% of God's Word is taken away from, altered, or added to it in order to comply with copy write laws, which means every time one is created you are getting less and less of God's Word and more of their own. Many versions eliminate hell from the pages, but the truth is this, they can try and alter God's Word in a book, but they can not alter His truths, no matter how many versions they make. Hell is real and unless they are saved that is where they are going. “For I testify unto every man that heareth the words of the prophecy of this book, If any man shall add unto these things, God shall add unto him the plagues that are written in this book: And if any man shall take away from the words of the book of this prophecy, God shall take away his part out of the book of life, and out of the holy city, and from the things which are written in this book.” - Revelation 22:18,19.
So, how do you know that the version you are reading contains all of God's Word? The only way we can known and understand what I have just said to be true is through the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit is who teaches us to understand what these scholars claim are confusing to the common people and eliminate from the Bible. “Wherefore I give you to understand, that no man speaking by the Spirit of God calleth Jesus accursed: and that no man can say that Jesus is the Lord, but by the Holy Ghost...For by one Spirit are we all baptized into one body, whether we be Jews or Gentiles, whether we be bond or free; and have been all made to drink into one Spirit.” - I Corinthians 12:3,13.
So, how do we receive the Holy Spirit? Jesus explained this before He ascended up to heaven. “And, being assembled together with them, commanded them that they should not depart from Jerusalem, but wait for the promise of the Father, which, saith he, ye have heard of me. For John truly baptized with water; but ye shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost not many days hence. And he said unto them, It is not for you to know the times or the seasons, which the Father hath put in his own power. But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.” - Acts 1:4,5,7,8.
Jesus said, quoting from John the Baptist, “For John truly baptized with water; but ye shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost not many days hence.” What He was saying was that in a few days you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit, which will give you the power to be my witnesses to everyone on earth. Three days later the Holy Spirit did arrive, on the day which is known as Pentecost and everyone the believed in Jesus received the Holy Ghost. “And suddenly there came a sound from heaven as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled all the house where they were sitting. And there appeared unto them cloven tongues like as of fire, and it sat upon each of them. And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance. And there were dwelling at Jerusalem Jews, devout men, out of every nation under heaven..And they were all amazed, and were in doubt, saying one to another, What meaneth this? Others mocking said, These men are full of new wine. But Peter, standing up with the eleven, lifted up his voice, and said unto them, Ye men of Judaea, and all ye that dwell at Jerusalem, be this known unto you, and hearken to my words:...And it shall come to pass in the last days, saith God, I will pour out of my Spirit upon all flesh: and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, and your young men shall see visions, and your old men shall dream dreams:...And it shall come to pass, that whosoever shall call on the name of the Lord shall be saved.” - Acts 2:2-5,12-14,17,21.
The Holy Spirit moves into everyone who calls on Jesus to be saved, and it is the Holy Spirit that teaches us God's Word and to be witnesses for others to be saved. I grew up like most Christians, I knew that Christmas was Jesus' birthday, Good Friday was the day He died, and Easter was the day He resurrected, but did I understand it? No, I did not. I spent years following Lent and trying to be good so I wouldn't die and go to hell, but the truth is, it did not matter if I observed these days or was good, if I would have died then I would have gone to hell. How do I know? I was not saved, I did not know Jesus as my Savior. The only way to escape hell is by calling on Jesus to save us. “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.” - Romans 10:9.
As Christians, we are to follow in Christ's footsteps, to teach the Gospel to all who do not know it, to be the example that people look for to trust in the Savior. The only way to understand the true Gospel is through all of God's Word and the Holy Spirit teaching us. “And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful. Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord. And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him.” - Colossians 3:15-17.
Be blessed, enjoy the rest of your day/night and week.
God Bless You, I am praying for you,
Christina
Are You 100% Sure That You Are Going to Heaven? godsprice.com
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Monday, November 8, 2010
Bible Study: Not of This World 11.07.10
Hello My Friend/Guest,
Today is Sunday November 07, 2010 and we are continuing our reading through the Bible. Today's message comes from the Book of John, chapters 17-18. In these chapters we will read about, Jesus praying for His people, Jesus being captured, Peter's denial of knowing Jesus, Jesus standing before the chief priest, and Pilate, all Scripture quoted comes from the King James Version. If you would like to read today's chapters along with us here online you can Click Here to read them or copy & paste this link onto your browser: imfollowingjesus.com/bible-november-7
Today's Message: Not of This World
Prayer is asking God for the things that we are in need of and even the things we desire. Prayer is our only communication with God, while God sees and hears everything that we do and will answer us in many forms, the only way we can communicate with Him is through prayer. “Charge them that are rich in this world, that they be not highminded, nor trust in uncertain riches, but in the living God, who giveth us richly all things to enjoy; That they do good, that they be rich in good works, ready to distribute, willing to communicate; Laying up in store for themselves a good foundation against the time to come, that they may lay hold on eternal life.” - I Timothy 6:17-19.
Our works do not get us saved, but it is what we do after we get saved that God blesses us. Just before Jesus was captured He said a prayer, “These words spake Jesus, and lifted up his eyes to heaven, and said, Father, the hour is come; glorify thy Son, that thy Son also may glorify thee: As thou hast given him power over all flesh, that he should give eternal life to as many as thou hast given him. And this is life eternal, that they might know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent. I have glorified thee on the earth: I have finished the work which thou gavest me to do. And now, O Father, glorify thou me with thine own self with the glory which I had with thee before the world was.” - John 17:1-5.
Jesus knew the time had come, it was time to finish the mission that God sent Him to earth for, to give eternal life to all who believe in Him. All of God's people are on a mission, we just have to learn what that is and how we are to accomplish it. “For the scripture saith unto Pharaoh, Even for this same purpose have I raised thee up, that I might shew my power in thee, and that my name might be declared throughout all the earth.” - Romans 9:17. Amazingly enough, God uses us to show those who are in the world just how powerful He is. Why? To give Him the glory. Jesus gave Him the glory, we too are to give Him the glory to finish the work He gave us to do. .
Jesus continues His prayer, “For I have given unto them the words which thou gavest me; and they have received them, and have known surely that I came out from thee, and they have believed that thou didst send me. I pray for them: I pray not for the world, but for them which thou hast given me; for they are thine. And all mine are thine, and thine are mine; and I am glorified in them....I have given them thy word; and the world hath hated them, because they are not of the world, even as I am not of the world. I pray not that thou shouldest take them out of the world, but that thou shouldest keep them from the evil. They are not of the world, even as I am not of the world. Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth. As thou hast sent me into the world, even so have I also sent them into the world.” - John 17:8-10,14-18.
Now, Jesus is praying for His believers, while He wants everyone to be saved, He is not concerned about those who do not believe in Him, but those who do. He knows that they are going to face the same persecution that He faced and wants God to assure them that He is theirs. We are not of this world, we are of God's world. Praise God! And Jesus prays for us, when we feel all alone and think that no one is there for us, Jesus is there, He is our comfort and never leaves us. “Blessed be God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies, and the God of all comfort; Who comforteth us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort them which are in any trouble, by the comfort wherewith we ourselves are comforted of God.” - II Corinthians 1:3,4.
After Jesus prayed He went to a garden and was captured, “The high priest then asked Jesus of his disciples, and of his doctrine. Jesus answered him, I spake openly to the world; I ever taught in the synagogue, and in the temple, whither the Jews always resort; and in secret have I said nothing. Why askest thou me? ask them which heard me, what I have said unto them: behold, they know what I said....Then led they Jesus from Caiaphas unto the hall of judgment: and it was early; and they themselves went not into the judgment hall, lest they should be defiled; but that they might eat the passover.” - John 18:19-21,28.
Caiaphas is asking Jesus what He and His disciples had been teaching, and just what they stood for. Jesus replies and says, there is nothing secret about what I have done, I declared what I did to the world, and even in the synagogue and temple.” Caiaphas was treating Jesus as if He was ahead of some secret movement, yet Jesus told him outright that He had done nothing in secret. Everything that He declared, He declared it before the world and them. And if they want to know what He taught, go out to the street and ask those that heard Me, they know what I have done for them and they will tell you. It is important as Christians to not be afraid to show that they are Christians. True Christianity is not about the limelight, it's about living life for God and showing it naturally. True Christians are not ashamed to say they believe in and follow Christ. Of course, we all get scared and omit it at times, but God knows our hearts and He is going to take care of us. Remember, we are not of this world, but of God's. “For whatsoever is born of God overcometh the world: and this is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith. Who is he that overcometh the world, but he that believeth that Jesus is the Son of God? This is he that came by water and blood, even Jesus Christ; not by water only, but by water and blood. And it is the Spirit that beareth witness, because the Spirit is truth.” - I John 5:4-6. Praise God!
Enjoy the rest of your day/night and have a blessed week.
God Bless You, I am praying for you,
Christina
Are You 100% Sure That You Are Going to Heaven? godsprice.com
Visit The I'm Following Jesus Website imfollowingjesus.com
Want To Receive This Devotion in Your Email?
Subscribe By Sending A Blank Email With the Subject Subscribe to: devotions@imfollowingjesus.com
Today is Sunday November 07, 2010 and we are continuing our reading through the Bible. Today's message comes from the Book of John, chapters 17-18. In these chapters we will read about, Jesus praying for His people, Jesus being captured, Peter's denial of knowing Jesus, Jesus standing before the chief priest, and Pilate, all Scripture quoted comes from the King James Version. If you would like to read today's chapters along with us here online you can Click Here to read them or copy & paste this link onto your browser: imfollowingjesus.com/bible-november-7
Today's Message: Not of This World
Prayer is asking God for the things that we are in need of and even the things we desire. Prayer is our only communication with God, while God sees and hears everything that we do and will answer us in many forms, the only way we can communicate with Him is through prayer. “Charge them that are rich in this world, that they be not highminded, nor trust in uncertain riches, but in the living God, who giveth us richly all things to enjoy; That they do good, that they be rich in good works, ready to distribute, willing to communicate; Laying up in store for themselves a good foundation against the time to come, that they may lay hold on eternal life.” - I Timothy 6:17-19.
Our works do not get us saved, but it is what we do after we get saved that God blesses us. Just before Jesus was captured He said a prayer, “These words spake Jesus, and lifted up his eyes to heaven, and said, Father, the hour is come; glorify thy Son, that thy Son also may glorify thee: As thou hast given him power over all flesh, that he should give eternal life to as many as thou hast given him. And this is life eternal, that they might know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent. I have glorified thee on the earth: I have finished the work which thou gavest me to do. And now, O Father, glorify thou me with thine own self with the glory which I had with thee before the world was.” - John 17:1-5.
Jesus knew the time had come, it was time to finish the mission that God sent Him to earth for, to give eternal life to all who believe in Him. All of God's people are on a mission, we just have to learn what that is and how we are to accomplish it. “For the scripture saith unto Pharaoh, Even for this same purpose have I raised thee up, that I might shew my power in thee, and that my name might be declared throughout all the earth.” - Romans 9:17. Amazingly enough, God uses us to show those who are in the world just how powerful He is. Why? To give Him the glory. Jesus gave Him the glory, we too are to give Him the glory to finish the work He gave us to do. .
Jesus continues His prayer, “For I have given unto them the words which thou gavest me; and they have received them, and have known surely that I came out from thee, and they have believed that thou didst send me. I pray for them: I pray not for the world, but for them which thou hast given me; for they are thine. And all mine are thine, and thine are mine; and I am glorified in them....I have given them thy word; and the world hath hated them, because they are not of the world, even as I am not of the world. I pray not that thou shouldest take them out of the world, but that thou shouldest keep them from the evil. They are not of the world, even as I am not of the world. Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth. As thou hast sent me into the world, even so have I also sent them into the world.” - John 17:8-10,14-18.
Now, Jesus is praying for His believers, while He wants everyone to be saved, He is not concerned about those who do not believe in Him, but those who do. He knows that they are going to face the same persecution that He faced and wants God to assure them that He is theirs. We are not of this world, we are of God's world. Praise God! And Jesus prays for us, when we feel all alone and think that no one is there for us, Jesus is there, He is our comfort and never leaves us. “Blessed be God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies, and the God of all comfort; Who comforteth us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort them which are in any trouble, by the comfort wherewith we ourselves are comforted of God.” - II Corinthians 1:3,4.
After Jesus prayed He went to a garden and was captured, “The high priest then asked Jesus of his disciples, and of his doctrine. Jesus answered him, I spake openly to the world; I ever taught in the synagogue, and in the temple, whither the Jews always resort; and in secret have I said nothing. Why askest thou me? ask them which heard me, what I have said unto them: behold, they know what I said....Then led they Jesus from Caiaphas unto the hall of judgment: and it was early; and they themselves went not into the judgment hall, lest they should be defiled; but that they might eat the passover.” - John 18:19-21,28.
Caiaphas is asking Jesus what He and His disciples had been teaching, and just what they stood for. Jesus replies and says, there is nothing secret about what I have done, I declared what I did to the world, and even in the synagogue and temple.” Caiaphas was treating Jesus as if He was ahead of some secret movement, yet Jesus told him outright that He had done nothing in secret. Everything that He declared, He declared it before the world and them. And if they want to know what He taught, go out to the street and ask those that heard Me, they know what I have done for them and they will tell you. It is important as Christians to not be afraid to show that they are Christians. True Christianity is not about the limelight, it's about living life for God and showing it naturally. True Christians are not ashamed to say they believe in and follow Christ. Of course, we all get scared and omit it at times, but God knows our hearts and He is going to take care of us. Remember, we are not of this world, but of God's. “For whatsoever is born of God overcometh the world: and this is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith. Who is he that overcometh the world, but he that believeth that Jesus is the Son of God? This is he that came by water and blood, even Jesus Christ; not by water only, but by water and blood. And it is the Spirit that beareth witness, because the Spirit is truth.” - I John 5:4-6. Praise God!
Enjoy the rest of your day/night and have a blessed week.
God Bless You, I am praying for you,
Christina
Are You 100% Sure That You Are Going to Heaven? godsprice.com
Visit The I'm Following Jesus Website imfollowingjesus.com
Want To Receive This Devotion in Your Email?
Subscribe By Sending A Blank Email With the Subject Subscribe to: devotions@imfollowingjesus.com
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