|
HIS
SERVANTS' MINISTRY
www.godcannotlie.org
Welcome to our website
1 Corinthians
Special Comments
May we always remember that it will NOT be man who has the final say in our judgment. We must do what the Holy Spirit places on our hearts, whether those around us disagree with us or not. God is our Judge! NOT man!
Seventeen Things by Jesus Christ
1. Righteousness (Rom.3:22)
2. The grace of God (Rom.5:15)
3. Reign of righteousness (Rom.5:21)
4. Grace and truth (1 Cor.1:4; Jn.1:17)
5. Peace (Acts 10:36)
6. Creation (Eph.3:9; Col.1:16-18)
7. Reconciliation (2 Cor.5:18)
8. Revelation (Gal.1:12)
9. Justification (Gal.2:16-17)
10. Adoption (Eph.1:5)
11. Exceeding riches of grace (Eph.2)
12. All needs supplied (Phil.4:19)
13. Salvation (1 Thes.5:9)
14. Spiritual sacrifices (1 Pet.2:5)
15. A good conscience (1 Pet.3:21)
16. Calling to glory (1 Pet.5:10)
17. Utterance and knowledge (1 Cor.1:5)
Five things Christ is made TO us:
#1. The power of God (1 Cor.1:24)
#2. The wisdom of God (1 Cor.1:24,30)
#3. The righteousness of God (1 Cor.1:30)
#4. The sanctification of God (1 Cor.1:30)
#5. The redemption of God (1 Cor.1:30)
Nine things Christ was made FOR us:
#1. He was made flesh (Jn.1:14).
#2. He was made of a woman (Gal.4:4).
#3. He was made of the seed of David (Rom.1:3).
#4. He was made in likeness of man (Phil.2:7).
#5. He was made of no reputation (Phil.2:7).
#6. He was made lower than angels (Heb.2:7).
#7. He was made under the law (Gal.4:4).
#8. He was made a curse for us (Gal.3:13).
#9. He was made sin for us (2 Cor,.5:21).
Things Prepared by God:
#1. The things prepared by God (1 Cor.2:9)
#2. The deep things of God (1 Cor.2:10)
#3. The things of man (1 Cor.2:11)
#4. The things of God (1 Cor.2:11)
#5. Things freely given by God (1 Cor.2:12)
#6. Spiritual things (1 Cor.2:13)
#7. The things of the Spirit of God (1 Cor.2:14)
In ALL these respects, the awesome blessings which the Gospel delivers, surpasses our comprehension, and all are infinitely beyond all that man could know or experience without faith in Christ. And consider this: IF on Earth the Gracious Gospel of Jesus Christ brings such blessings to TRUE believers, how much higher and purer shall be the joys which it shall bestow in Heaven!
Three different spirits:
#1. The spirit of man (1 Cor.2:11)
#2. The Spirit of God (1 Cor.2:11)
#3. The spirit of the world (1 Cor.2:12)
Two kinds of wisdom:
#1. Man's wisdom
#2. Holy Spirit’s wisdom
How the Apostles Died
How the Apostles Died
Simon surnamed Peter: died 33-34 years after the death of Christ. All agree that he was crucified. Peter felt himself to be unworthy to be put to death in the same manner as his Master, and was supposedly at his own request, crucified with his head downward.
James the son of Zebedee: He was put to death by Herod Agrippa I shortly before the day of the Passover, in the year 44 or about 11 years after the death of Christ (Acts 12:1-2). He was beheaded with a sword (Mk.10:39; Acts 12:1-2)
John: No death date, or manner of death is given by early writers. Death date is by guesswork only and is variously assigned as being between 89 AD to 120 AD. He was thrown in boiling oil but unharmed; died of Natural causes ( the only apostle not martyred) & buried near Ephesus about 100AD
Andrew: No accurate death date given. A variety of traditions say he preached in Scythia, in Greece, in Asia Minor and Thrace. He was severely scourged & tied by ropes on x-shaped cross where he hung 2 days to die; this gave rise to the St. Andrews cross on the national flag of Scotland
Philip: The Bible does not say when he died nor do we have accurate information. According to tradition he preached in Phrygia, and died at Hierapolis. He was crucified or hung upside down by hooks through his ankles.
Bartholomew: There is no information concerning his death, not even by tradition. He was supposedly beaten/flayed (skinned alive), and crucified head down or beheaded.
Matthew: He must have lived many years as an apostle, since he was the author of the Gospel of Matthew which was written at least twenty years after the death of Christ. There is reason to believe that he stayed for fifteen years at Jerusalem, after which he went as missionary to the Persians, Parthians and Medes. There is a legend that he died a martyr in Ethiopia, axed to death with a halberd.
Thomas: The earlier traditions, as believed in the fourth century, say he preached in Parthia or Persia, and was finally buried at Edessa. The later traditions carry him farther east. His martyrdom whether in Persia or India, is said to have been lanced by idolatrous priests, and burned up in an oven.
James Alpheus: We know he lived at least five years after the death of Christ because of mentions in the Bible. According to tradition, James son of Alpheus was thrown down from the temple by the scribes and Pharisees; he was then stoned, and his brains dashed out with a fuller’s club. High priest sentencing: on trumped up charges of violating Jewish law; thrown down from the Temple tower, did not die so was clubbed to death with a fullers club; immediately buried in a trench grave with stone marker.
Simon the Canaanite – No information in the Bible; tradition says that he was crucified or sawed in half.
Jude (Thaddeus): according to tradition Jude taught in Armenia, Syria and Persia where he was martyred by crucifixion. Tradition tells us he was buried in Kara Kalisa in what is now Iran.
Paul: Most historians, both secular and church, agree that he was beheaded.
Judas Iscariot: Shortly after the death of Christ Judas killed himself. According to the Bible he hanged himself, (Mat. 27:5) at Aceldama, on the southern slope of the valley of Hinnom, near Jerusalem, and in the act he fell down a cliff and was supposedly dashed into pieces.
Matthias: (the 11 remaining Apostles chose him to replace Judas). He was supposedly stoned and beheaded.
Church Discipline
The church, at times, must exercise discipline toward members who have sinned. But church discipline must be handled carefully, straightforwardly and lovingly.
#1. Unintentional error and/or private sin. . . . Go to the brother or sister; show the fault to him or her in private.
#2. Public sin and/or those done, . . . If he/she does not listen, go with one or two witnesses.
#3. Flagrantly and arrogantly. . . . If he/she refuses to listen, take the matter before the church.
After these steps have been carried out, the next steps are:
- Remove the one in error from the fellowship (1 Cor.5:2-13).
- The church gives united disapproval, but forgiveness and comfort are in order if he/she chooses to repent (2 Cor.2:5-8).
- Do not associate with the disobedient person; and if you must, speak to him/her as one who needs a warning (2 Thes.3:14-15).
- After two warnings, reject the person from the fellowship (Tit.3:10).
There are several very important matters in this 1 Corinthians chapter 5 which closely concern the Christian Church in general:
#1. IF evil is allowed to continue in the church, the work of God will NOT prosper there. IF a scandal appears, it should be the cause of common humiliation and mourning to the TRUE followers of God where it happens. WHY? Because the soul of a brother is on the road to condemnation to an everlasting Hell (Jn.3:18-19; Rom.8:1; Jude 1:4).
#2. Discipline MUST be exercised in the Christian Church, for without it, they would be no different that the wilderness of this wicked world. IF it is not stopped, the poisonous infection will remain until the church is totally infected with it. Compromise (cooperation or agreement with), is NOT the way to go!
#3. Any soul cut off from the body of Christ (church), is in an dreadful state. His conduct usually plunges into the deepest depths of iniquity; and the last state of that man becomes worse than the first (Mat.12:45; Lk.11:26).
#4. Christians who want to keep the holiness of their religion should be very careful how they mingle with the world. IF a person is pleased with the company of ungodly men, no matter how amusing or educated, he is either one with them, or is drinking into their spirit (which is evil). It is IMPOSSIBLE to associate with such people willingly or by choice, without receiving some of their contamination and pollution! My friend, the TRUE Christian and the world are separated by a great gulf (Lk.16:26). There is NO compromise! You are either a Christian OR you are of the wicked world of Satan.
#5. IF all the fornicators, adulterers, drunkards, extortioners and covetous people which CALL themselves Christians, were to be publicly excommunicated from the Christian Church, HOW many do you think there would be?
#6. IF the discipline of the church is so lax that these people are tolerated in it, they should really stop and consider that just to belong to a Christian church is NO passport to Heaven. My dear friend, in God’s eyes, they are NOT members of HIS Church; their citizenship is NOT in Heaven, and they will NOT receive the heavenly inheritance (Jn.14:2-3; 1 Pet.1:3-5).
It is NOT names, creed, or professions, which men shall be saved at the last day. It is ONLY those alone who were holy, who were conformed to the image of Christ who shall inherit the Kingdom of God. Those who expect it in any other way, or on any other account, will be sadly deceived. . . . http://www.hisservants.org/truth_about_salvation_h_s.htm
Sixteen Biblical reasons for excommunication:
1. Refusing to make peace (Mat.18:15)
2. Causing divisions (Rom.16:17)
3. Fornication (1 Cor.5:11-13)
4. Covetousness (1 Cor.5:11-3)
5. Idolatry (1 Cor.5:11-13)
6. Trouble making (1 Cor.5:11-13)
7. Drunkenness (1 Cor.5:11-13)
8. Extortion (1 Cor.5:11-13)
9. Refusing to love God (1 Cor.16:22)
10. Unbelief, infidelity (2 Cor.6:14)
11. Backsliding (2 Cor.13:1-2,10)
12. Disorderly conduct (2 Cor.3:6)
13. Defying the truth (2 Thes.3:14)
14. Denying faith (1 Tim.1:19-20)
15. False teaching (1 Tim.6:3-5; 2 Jn.1:10)
16. Being a heretic (Tit.3:10-11)
Six Things that are NOT Good:
1. Boasting in the face of unconfessed sin (1 Cor.5:6; Jam.4:16).
2. To punish the just (Pro.17:26)
3. To be without knowledge (Pro.19:2)
4. Accept the wicked and overthrow the righteous in judgment (Pro.18:5)
5. To have respect for persons in judgment (Pro.24:23)
6. For man to be alone (Gen.2:19)
Seven Things that are Good:
1. To draw near to God (Ps.73:28).
2. To give thanks to God (Ps.92:1).
3. To be afflicted (Ps.119:71).
4. To give praise (Ps.147:1).
5. To hope and wait for salvation (Lam.3:26).
6. To bear the yoke in youth (Lam.3:27).
7. To be zealous for good (Gal.4:18).
Special comments for 1 Cor. chapter 10
Six bad illustrations in the Bible:
#1. Canaanites (Lev.18:2-3; 20:23)
#2. Backslidden Israel (2 Chron.30:7; Isa.8:11; Jer.16:12; 17:1-2; Eze.20:18; Hos.4:9; Zec.1:4)
#3. An angry man (Pro.22:24-25)
#4. Pharisees (Mat.23)
#5. Gentiles (Eph.4:17)
#6. Israel in the wilderness (1 Cor.10:6-11)
Five major sins of Israel . . . and the world:
#1. Lust for evil things (Num.11:4-15; Ps.106:14; 1 Cor.10:6; Gal 5:19-21; 2 Cor.6:9-11; Rom.1:29-32; Col.3:5-10; Mk.7:19-21).
#2. Idolatry (Ex.32:6-25; Gal.5:19-21; Eph.5:5; Col.3:5; 1 Cor.6:9)
#3. Fornication (Num.25:1-9; 1 Cor.10:8; Gal.5:19-21;1 Cor.6:9-11; Col.3:5).
#4. Tempting God and Christ (Ex.17:2,7; Num.14:22’ 21:5-10; Deut.6:16; Ps.78:17-18,41,56; 95:8-9; 106:14; 1 Cor.10:9).
#5. Murmuring (Ex.15:24; 16:2-12; 17:3; Num.14:2,27-29,36; 16:11,41; 17:5,10; Deut.1:27; 1 Cor.10:10; Phil.2:14).
See: Israel’s Ten Failures: https://hisservants.org/israe's_ten_failures_h_s.html
Ten ways, of many, to tempt God:
#1. Murmuring (Ex.17:2; 1 Cor.10:6)
#2. Unbelief (Ex.17:7; Heb.4:1-11)
#3. Rebellion (Num.14:22; 21:1-9)
#4. Provoking God (Ps.78:17-18,56)
#5. Backsliding (Ps.78:41,56)
#6. Hardening the heart (Ps.95:8-9)
#7. Lust and sin (Ex.32; Ps.106:14)
#8. Idolatry (Ex.20:3-5; Lev.18:21; 20:2-5; Deut.12:31; 18:10; 1 Cor.10:7,18-22)
#9. Spiritual Blindness (Ps.14:1,4; 73:2-28; 79:6; Isa.42:18-20; 44:18-20; 1 Cor.1:18-21; 15:34)
#10. Pride (Deut.8:11-14; Ps.10:2-6,11; 12:4; 1 Cor.1:29; 3:18; Rev.3:17-18; 18:7-8)
#11. Ingratitude (Gen.3:1-7; Num.11:4-6; 21:5)
#12. Rejection of God (1 Sam.8:7; 10:19; 15:23; Ps.81:11; Pro.1:24)
See: Israel’s Ten Failures: https://hisservants.org/israe's_ten_failures_h_s.html
Ten rules of keeping peace:
#1. Eat for the glory of God, do NOT offend your brother (1 Cor.10:31).
#2. Drink for the glory of God, do NOT offend your brother (1 Cor.10:21).
#3. Do all things for the glory of God, do all you can to keep peace with everyone (1 Cor.10:310.
#4. Give no offense to Jews, do not offend or wrong the Jews (1 Cor.19:32).
#5. Give no offense to Gentiles, do not offend or wrong Gentiles (1 Cor.19:32).
#6. Give no offense to brethren, the Christian church (1 Cor.1:32).
#7. Seek to please all people, do your best to be at peace with all people (1 Cor.10:33).
#8. Seek to please people in all things, but do NOT compromise your convictions (1 Cor.10:33)
#9. Do not seek personal profit, but seek the profit of others (1 Cor.10:33. 9:19-23).
#10. Above all else, saving people’s souls should be #1 in our minds (1 Cor.10:33).
I don’t know about you, but there are some things here that I have trouble with. The Christian life certainly is NOT easy!
My comment on submission follows:
Submission is a very important issue in relation to marriage. Submission is a word most married women do not want to consider or hear. But, even before sin entered the world, there was the principle of headship (1 Tim.2:13). Adam was created first, and Eve was created to be a "helper" for Adam (Gen.2:18-20). Since there was NO sin at that time, the only authority was God’s authority. Then Eve and Adam disobeyed God (Gen.2:17; 3:6). When SIN entered the world, authority was now needed. God established the laws of the land and also provided us with the protection we need. First, we need to submit to God, which is really the only way we can truly obey Him (Jam.1:21; 4:7).
Husbands are also to submit to their Head, which is Jesus! 1 Cor. 11:3 But I would have you know, that the head of every man is Christ; and the head of the woman is the man; and the head of Christ is God. (KJV) . . . Husbands are to submit to Christ, just as Christ submitted to God the Father. Then the verse says that the wife should follow his example and submit to her husband.
May I say that I found a very good definition of submission. Submission is cooperating voluntarily. I like that!
Submission is a natural response to loving leadership. When a husband loves his wife as Christ loves the church (Eph.5:25-33), submission is very EASY! It is a natural response from a wife to her husband. Submitting to God, the government or a husband is NOT a one-time thing! It is a continual, repeated approach. It becomes a habit, a pattern of behavior. The submission talked about in Ephesians 5, is absolutely NOT a one-sided subjection (hopelessness, enslavement or oppression) of a believer to a selfish, domineering person. Biblical submission is intended to be between two Spirit-filled believers who are jointly yielded to each other and to God in love.
Submission is a two-way street. Submission is a position of honor and completeness. When a wife is loved by her husband, as the church is loved by Christ, submission is never difficult. Eph. 5:24 Therefore as the church is subject unto Christ, so let the wives be to their own husbands in every thing. (KJV) . . . This is saying that the wife is to submit to her husband in everything that is right and lawful. BUT . . . the wife is under NO obligation to disobey the law or God in submitting to her husband.
Spirit-filled believers are to be reverent, respectful (5:19), thankful (5:20), and submissive (5:21). A wife should submit to her husband, NOT because women are inferior, but because that is how God intended the marriage relationship to work. Submission is NOT a wife being a doormat for her husband to walk on. Instead, with the help of the Holy Spirit, a wife submits (cooperates voluntarily) to her husband, and a husband sacrificially loves his wife.
Comment on Tongues
I am bringing this excerpt from our commentary in Acts.
Acts 2:5 And there were dwelling at Jerusalem Jews, devout men, out of every nation under heaven. (KJV)
They had come from everywhere because of the Feast of Pentecost. This is why they were in Jerusalem.
Acts 2:6 Now when this was noised abroad, the multitude came together, and were confounded, because that every man heard them speak in his own language. (KJV)
When this was noised abroad . . . means when this sound (the wind) took place. Because of the sound a multitude gathered. The sound the people of Jerusalem heard had never been heard before; so they came rushing toward it. Probably all 120 believers were there (Acts 1:15).
The people who went there were bewildered because every man heard the apostles speak in his own language. It was not only that the language of their country was spoken, but each man heard his own dialect as it was spoken in his area of the country. This was NOT like the mass confusion of some of today’s churches.
These men were NOT talking gibberish. They were NOT talking in unknown tongues.
These men were speaking the dialects of the people in the multitude.
Some Bible commentators believe that what is meant here is that the apostles were NOT speaking in other languages at all, but were speaking in their own Galilean dialect, and the miracle was in the hearing because it says: “every man heard them speak in his own language.” SO . . . we all can agree that there WAS a miracle that special day . . . BUT . . . was the miracle that broke down the language barrier in the speaking OR could it have been in the hearing?
Also, consider the following: NOWHERE in Acts do you find the term "Baptism of the Holy Ghost" in connection with speaking in tongues. The baptism of the Holy Ghost is related to salvation, NOT tongues (1 Cor.12:13).
There is NO command in the Bible to speak with unknown tongues.
A person who does not have the Holy Spirit is not saved (Rom.8:9; 1 John 4:13).
A wicked generation seeks a sign (Mat.12:39).
The tongues movement of today is NOT the Acts 2 tongues but the CARNAL tongues of 1 Corinthians.
Jesus does NOT command us to speak in ANY different "tongues."
Acts 2:7-11 And they were all amazed and marvelled, saying one to another, Behold, are not all these which speak Galilaeans? 8 And how hear we every man in our own tongue, wherein we were born? 9 Parthians, and Medes, and Elamites, and the dwellers in Mesopotamia, and in Judaea, and Cappadocia, in Pontus, and Asia, 10 Phrygia, and Pamphylia, in Egypt, and in the parts of Libya about Cyrene, and strangers of Rome, Jews and proselytes, 11 Cretes and Arabians, we do hear them speak in our tongues the wonderful works of God. (KJV) . . . Emphasis mine. 18 languages!
Acts 1:4 says: “as the Spirit gave them utterance” meaning as the Spirit gave them power to speak. This clearly states that they now had the ability to speak languages which they did not know . . . or understand a language they did not know. Their native tongue was that of Galilee, the common language used in Judea, the Syro-Chaldaic. Many attempts have been made to try to figure a way other than this being a miracle. BUT . . . the natural and clear meaning of the Passage is: they were endowed by the miraculous power of the Holy Ghost with ability to speak foreign languages they did not know! PERIOD! I do not think that each one had the power to speak all the languages which named (Acts 2:9-11) but that this ability was among them, and that together they could speak these languages; probably some one, and some another.
The following may be helpful:
(1.) This ability was predicted in the Old Testament. "With another tongue will he speak to this people" (Isa.28:11). 1 Cor.14:21 In the law it is written, With men of other tongues and other lips will I speak unto this people; and yet for all that will they not hear me, saith the Lord. (KJV)
(2.) The Lord Jesus stated that they would have this power. Mark 16:17 And these signs shall follow them that believe; In my name shall they cast out devils; they shall speak with new tongues; (KJV)
The Lord Jesus NEVER tells us that we must speak in tongues to be saved, as some of those charismatic churches teach today. They LIE! Believe Jesus . . . NOT these heretical false teachers.
http://www.hisservants.org/f_chrismatic_tongues.htm
Nine different parts of Divine love:
#1. Patience . . . love is passive; it is in no hurry; it suffers long; tolerates, believes, hopes, and endures all things (1 Cor.13:4,7)
#2. Kindness . . . love never acts rashly or rudely; is never inconsistent, puffed up, or proud (1 Cor.13:4)
#3. Generous . . . love is not envious or jealous (1 Cor.13:4)
#4. Humble . . . love is meek, no arrogance, no airs, no puffed-up me, me, me (1 Cor.13:4)
#5. Courteous . . . love does not behave unseemly; is always polite; at home with all classes; never rude or discourteous (1 Cor.13:5)
#6. Unselfish . . . love is never selfish, sour or unpleasant; seeks only good of others; does not strike back or seek revenge (1 Cor.13:5)
#7. Good disposition . . . love is not hot tempered, never irritated; never resentful (1 Cor.13:5)
#8. Righteous . . . love hates sin, is never glad when others go wrong; always happy by goodness to others, always eager to believe the best; always hopeful and enduring (1 Cor.13:6-7)
#9. Sincere . . . love is never boastful and conceited; is not a hypocrite; always honest; leaves no impression except what is strictly true; never self-assertive; does not scream out in passionate anger, nor brood over wrongs; always just, joyful, and truthful, knows how to be silent; full of trust; always present.
Three things a man puts away:
#1. Speaking like a child
#2. Understanding like a child
#3. Thinking like a child
TONGUES
Charisma is found 17 times in the Greek New Testament. It is translated 15 times “gifts” and “free gift” 2 times.
Glossa is found 50 times in the New Testament and is translated 50 times “tongues”.
UNKNOWN tongues is found seven times in the Bible (1 Cor.14:2,4,12,13,14,19,27). In Chapter 14 the italicized word "unknown" does NOT appear in the Greek text, as with all italicized words found in the King James Translation.
Three Examples of Tongues in the Bible
If you would listen to the people in the tongues movement, you would think that there were many places of speaking in tongues. BUT . . . there are only 3 examples of God giving people power to speak in a language they did not know.
#1. Jerusalem, on the Day of Pentecost, in Acts 2. NONE but the Galileans were given this gift. Tongues served TWO purposes that day. (a) A sign to the Jews (who seek after a sign 1 Cor.1:22). (b) To communicate with and evangelize the foreign born Jews who were at Jerusalem for the feast.
#2. Three years late at the house of Cornelius (Acts 10:34-48). Cornelius was an unsaved Italian Gentile who was a centurion in the Roman army. Peter was sent to tell him how to be saved (Acts 11:14). When he preached the Gospel to Cornelius and his household, they believed and were saved. Acts 10:45-46 And they of the circumcision which believed were astonished, as many as came with Peter, because that on the Gentiles also was poured out the gift of the Holy Ghost. 46 For they heard them speak with tongues, and magnify God. Then answered Peter, (KJV) . . . They did NOT pray for or ask for the gift of tongues. They probably did not even know what the gift was.
This represents the giving of the Spirit to the Gentiles, as He was given to the Jews at Pentecost. The tongues was a sign to the 7 Jews who were present (Acts 10:45-46; 11:12). They returned to the Jerusalem church and testified to the Jews about what God had done among the Gentiles. No doubt there was a number of different languages that day as there were at Pentecost.
#3. Twenty two Years later at Ephesus (Acts 19:1-7). Twelve men in Ephesus claimed to be
disciples of Christ and to have received the baptism of John the Baptist. Paul asked them: Acts 19:2 He said unto them, Have ye received the Holy Ghost since ye believed? They were sincere but ignorant of John’s teaching and answered: We have not so much as heard whether there be any Holy Ghost. Had they known about John’s preaching, they would have known about both the Holy Spirit and Jesus (Jn.1:26-34). Acts 19:6 And when Paul had laid his hands upon them, the Holy Ghost came on them; and they spake with tongues, and prophesied. (KJV)
WHY are Tongues NOT mentioned anywhere else? Only two Books in the New Testament mention the gift of tongues, Acts and 1 Corinthians. It seems probable to me that IF tongues were to continue, that ALL the Books of the Bible would mention them.
IF tongues today is unscriptural, WHY is there so much emphasis on the subject? I think there may be four possibilities:
#1. Divine, which I think is ruled out.
#2. Satanic.
#3. Psychological.
#4. Bogus, phony.
I believe it is one of the last 3.
WHERE do Tongues Flourish Today?
#1. Where the Bible is not taught or understood.
#2. Where people seek visions and feelings instead of the Truth of the Bible.
#3. In today’s modern churches, where people are exposed to cold, dead preaching.
#4. Where fundamental Gospel Truth has become cold and dead.
#5. Among lost souls seeking a religious experience, which most times ends up being the WRONG kind of religion.
There is absolutely NO need for anyone to seek the baptism of the Holy Spirit.
1 Cor. 6:19-20 What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own? 20 For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God's. (KJV)
1 Cor. 12:13 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. (KJV) Romans 8:9But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you. Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his. (KJV)
Titus 3:5-6 Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost; 6 Which he shed on us abundantly through Jesus Christ our Saviour; (KJV)
***** BEWARE!!! *****
2 Cor. 11:13-15 For such are false apostles, deceitful workers, transforming themselves into the apostles of Christ. 14 And no marvel; for Satan himself is transformed into an angel of light.
15 Therefore it is no great thing if his ministers also be transformed as the ministers of righteousness; whose end shall be according to their works. (KJV)
1 Timothy 4:1 Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils; (KJV)
1 John 4:1 Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world. (KJV)
Isaiah 8:20 To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them. (KJV)
TONGUES
Acts 2, Godly Tongues, Spiritual 1 Corinthians, Ungodly Tongues, Carnal
Definite foreign languages used Acts 2:6 Unknown tongues used 1 Cor.14:2,4
The Holy Spirit is the Interpreter Acts 2:6-8 Humans are the interpreters1 Cor.14:13
A Jewish background Acts 2:14, 22 A Gentile background 1 Cor:1:2
A Jewish feast day, Pentecost Acts 2:1 No special day involved
Only apostles talked in tongues Acts 1:26 Everyone talked in tongues 1 Cor.14:23,26
Edified those that heard (church) Acts 2:11 Edified themselves only 1 Cor. 14:4
A mighty rushing wind evident Acts 2:2 NO mighty rushing wind in evidence
Cloven tongues like as of fire Acts 2:3 NO cloven tongues
NO women speaking Women speaking, yet forbidden 1 Cor.14:34
Tongues are a sign to the Jews 1 Cor.1:22 We must walk by faith, NOT signs Heb.11:6
Peter is the main speaker Acts 2:14, Gal. 2:7-8 Paul (apostle to Gentiles) is the speaker
1 Cor. 1:1; Rom. 11:13; 15:16
All done decently and orderly All done disorderly 1 Cor.14:33
Many were saved Acts 2:41 Many were considered as barbarians
1 Cor.14:11,23
Spoke to men Acts 2:6 Spoke into the air 1 Cor. 14:9
Mature Christian leadership Acts 1:26 Carnal Christian leadership
1 Cor. 3:1; 12:1; 14:20
NO rebuke given to tongues speakers Rebuked for misuse of tongues 1 Cor.14:19
All words clearly understood Acts 2:6 Words not understood by hearers
1 Cor. 14:8-11; 14:14-15
Scriptural tongues Unscriptural tongues 1 Cor. 14:19-20
Holy Spirit's work glorified God Acts 2:11 They Glorified the Holy Spirit instead of God
Were profitable and fruitful Acts 2:6 Considered unprofitable 1 Cor. 14:6
Summary
#1. NOWHERE in Acts do you find the term "Baptism of the Holy Ghost" in connection with speaking in tongues.
#2. The baptism of the Holy Ghost is related to salvation, NOT to tongues (1 Cor. 12:13).
#3. There is absolutely NO command in the Bible to speak with unknown tongues.
#4. IF speaking in tongues were required for salvation, don’t you think our loving Lord Jesus would have told us?
#5. A person who does not have the Holy Spirit is NOT saved (Rom.8:9; 1 Jn 4:13).
#6. A wicked generation seeks a sign (Mat.12:39).
#7. The tongues movement of today is absolutely NOT the Acts 2 tongues, but instead the CARNAL tongues of 1 Corinthians.
#8. Tongues of the Bible (in both Acts and 1 Corinthians) were ALWAYS understandable, known, recognized, earthly, languages . . . NOT indiscernible sounds and utterances and gibberish, such as is used by the Charismatic Movement today.
#9. God always initiated the miracle of tongues in the Bible, NOT men (Acts 2 and 10), which is in sharp contrast to the FALSE tongues spoken in Pentecostal churches today.
#10. The gift of tongues in 1 Corinthians was simply the usage of known languages, which some did not understand . . . which led Paul to tell them not to speak in foreign languages in bilingual congregations unless an interpreter was present.
The gift of tongues in 1 Corinthians is vastly different than the MIRACLE of tongues in Acts 2. In Acts 2 Peter spoke in Greek, but men from at least 16 different nations were there, and each one of them heard Peter’s words in his own language.
1 Cor.14:33 God is not the author of confusion, but of peace, as in all churches of the saints. (KJV)
Continuationism is the seal of the Charismatics and to a degree the word faith believers also. They believe that the first century apostles' gifts, healings, direct prophecies and other miracles are the correct way of thinking in the Christian's experience. Cessationism believes that the miracle of spiritual gifts were for a building base only in the early church, planned only to get the church started, and ceased after the foundation of the church was laid the Bible was completed.
There are those who say that the people who embrace continuationism, believe that those who embrace cessationism, reject the Holy Spirit completely. That is not so.
It seems like there is some confusion over what cessationism rejects. While there are clear differences between the two religious positions, the REALITY of miracles and healing is NOT one of them.
Cessationism confirms that God upholds the power to heal and perform miracles any time that He chooses . . . but we believe it is GOD that heals and performs miracles NOT mortal man. What we deny is that the "gifts" to perform signs and wonders which were so established and normal in the first century church are still prevalent and normative today.
God's character to us remains the same, today, tomorrow and always: Jesus is the same yesterday, today, and forever (Heb.13:8), but He deals with His people in exceptional ways at exceptional times (Heb.1:1-4).
What Will Christ Judge?
- 1. How we treat other believers. Hebrews 6:10 For God is not unrighteous to forget your work and labour of love, which ye have shewed toward his name, in that ye have ministered to the saints, and do minister. [KJV] God is never unfair. He will not forget how hard you have worked for Him and how you have shown your love to Him by caring for other Christians.
- 2. How we exercise our authority over others. Hebrews 13:17 Obey them that have the rule over you, and submit yourselves: for they watch for your souls, as they that must give account, that they may do it with joy, and not with grief: for that is unprofitable for you. [KJV] We must respect and obey our spiritual leaders, for their work is to watch over our souls, for they are accountable to God. Give them reason to do this joyfully and not with sorrow.
- 3. How we use our God given abilities. 1 Peter 4:10 As every man hath received the gift, even so minister the same one to another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God. [KJV] God has given gifts to each of us from His great variety of spiritual gifts. We must manage them well so that God's love and generosity can flow through us to others.
- 4. How we spend our time. 1 Peter 1:17 And if ye call on the Father, who without respect of persons judgeth according to every man's work, pass the time of your sojourning here in fear: [KJV] We must remember that our heavenly Father to whom we pray has no favorites when He judges. He will judge or reward us according to what we do. So you must live in reverent fear of Him during our time as foreigners here on Earth.
- 5. How we use our money. 1 Tim. 6:17-19 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; [18] That they do good, that they be rich in good works, ready to distribute, willing to communicate; [19] Laying up in store for themselves a good foundation against the time to come, that they may lay hold on eternal life. [KJV] Most people who are rich are proud and trust in their money; but money and possessions are short-lived. We should trust in the living God, who richly gives us all we need for our enjoyment. We should be rich in good works and should share with those in need, always being ready to share with others whatever God has given us. In doing so we will store up "treasure in Heaven" as a good foundation for the future so that we may take hold of real life.
- 6. How we run our race. Philip. 3:14 I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus. [KJV] We should strive to run our race (our life) to the best of our ability.
- 7. How we control our old nature. Ephes. 4:22 That ye put off concerning the former conversation the old man, which is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts; [KJV] We should cast off our old evil nature, as we would dirty clothes; and our former way of life, which is rotten through and through.
- 8. How many people we witness to. Daniel 12:3 And they that be wise shall shine as the brightness of the firmament; and they that turn many to righteousness as the stars for ever and ever. [KJV] Those who are wise will shine as bright as the stars, reaching out to the lost souls around them.
- 9. How we react to temptation. James 1:2-3 My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations; [3] Knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience. [KJV] Whenever trouble comes our way, it can be an opportunity for joy. For when our faith is tested, our patience and endurance has a chance to grow.
- 10. How we react to temptation. James 1:2-3 My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations; [3] Knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience. [KJV] Whenever trouble comes our way, it can be an opportunity for joy. For when our faith is tested, our patience and endurance has a chance to grow.
- 11. How much the coming of Christ means to you. 2 Timothy 4:8 Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing. [KJV] The crown of righteousness (a grand reward) will be given by the Lord on that great day; to all who eagerly look forward to His glorious return.
- 12. How much you think of Christ. Matthew 10:41-42 He that receiveth a prophet in the name of a prophet shall receive a prophet's reward; and he that receiveth a righteous man in the name of a righteous man shall receive a righteous man's reward. [42] And whosoever shall give to drink unto one of these little ones a cup of cold water only in the name of a disciple, verily I say unto you, he shall in no wise lose his reward. [KJV] You can be sure that whoever gives even a drink of cold water to one of the least of Jesus’ followers will certainly receive a reward. Christ does not say we deserve a reward; for we CANNOT merit ANYTHING from the Hand of God; but we shall receive a reward as a free gift from God. Let us boldly confess Christ, and show love to Him and His followers in all things.
- 13. How we use words. Matthew 12:36 But I say unto you, That every idle word that men shall speak, they shall give account thereof in the day of judgment. [KJV] You can be sure that on the Judgment Day you will have to give account of EVERY useless word you have ever spoken.
- 14. How we treat God's land and animals. Psalm 24:1 The earth is the Lord's, and the fulness thereof; the world, and they that dwell therein. [KJV] The world and all that is in it belong to the Lord; the Earth and all who live on it are His, and we should treat it accordingly. 15. What motivates you to serve God. 1 Cor. 3:13-15 Every man's work shall be made manifest: for the day shall declare it, because it shall be revealed by fire; and the fire shall try every man's work of what sort it is. [14] If any man's work abide which he hath built thereupon, he shall receive a reward. [15] If any man's work shall be burned, he shall suffer loss: but he himself shall be saved; yet so as by fire. [KJV] Believers must build on Christ, not on any other person or principle. Christ will evaluate believers at the Judgment Seat ("the Day") and will reveal the sincerity of each person’s work. He will determine whether or not we have been faithful to His instructions. Good work will be rewarded; unfaithful or inferior work will be discounted. The builder "will be saved, but only as one escaping through the flames" meaning that unfaithful workers will be saved, but will be like people escaping from a burning building. (Escape by the skin of their teeth, as the old expression goes). All their possessions (accomplishments) will be lost. Only what we do for Christ will stand. Matthew 6:20-21 But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal: [21] For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.[KJV]
These are just some of the things that will be brought up at the Judgment Seat of Christ. I’m sure there are more. Anyone “in Christ” is assured of Heaven. The judgment is to decide rewards or discounts (losses). When a weak or carnal Christian comes before the Judgment Seat of Christ, there shall be some troublesome moments. I believe there are various degrees of Heaven AND Hell. How we live now (here on Earth) will decide our eternal future.
The Bible clearly teaches that the Judgment Seat of Christ for a carnal or weak Christian is not just a matter of losing rewards. Christians will receive something too. What may that be? My purpose is to warn every believer based on my knowledge of what the Bible says about the terror of the Lord and the fact that God is not mocked. Christian, won’t you renew your commitment to Him?
Three commands that bring us victory:
#1. Stedfast . . . to be seated, settled, and firmly standing in the truth of the resurrection and of victory in Christ (1 Cor.7:37; 15:58)
#2. Uunmoveable . . . not allowing anything to shake your faith or move you away from the hope of the Gospel (1 Cor.15:58; Tit.1:2)
#3. Abounding in the work of the Lord . . . always abound in the work of the Lord, knowing that what you do will be rewarded (Isa.3:10-11; 40:10; 62:11; Mat.10:42; 1 Cor.3:8,14; 9:17-18; 15:58; Rev.11:18; 22:12).
Christianity is strongly grounded on the bodily resurrection of the Lord Jesus Christ. Below is a list the resurrection appearances, as recorded in the Bible:
#1. Jesus first appears to Mary Magdalene, shortly after his resurrection. (Mark 16:9; John 20:11-18).
#2. Jesus appears to the women returning from the empty tomb. (Matthew 28:8-10).
#3. Jesus appears to two disciples on the road to Emmaus. (Mark 16:12-13; Luke 24:13-35).
#4. He appears to Peter. (Luke 24:34, 1 Cor.15:5).
#5. He appears to His disciples, in Jerusalem, Thomas is absent. (Luke 24:36-49; John 20:19-23).
#6. Jesus again appears to His disciples, in Jerusalem. Thomas is present. (John 20:24-29).
#7. To seven apostles by the Galilean Sea (John 21:1-2)
#8. Jesus is seen by 500 believers at one time. (1 Cor.15:6).
#9. He appears to James. (1 Cor.15:7).
#10. He appears to His disciples on a mountain in Galilee. (Matthew 28:16-20).
#11. He appears to His disciples, blesses them, and ascends into Heaven. (Luke 24:50-53).
#12. He appears to Paul, on the road to Damascus. (Acts 9:3-6; 1 Cor.15:8).
Ten Proofs of the resurrection:
#1. Proven by Scripture (1 Cor.15:1-4; Job 19:25; Ps.16:10; Dan.12:1-3; Mat.28; Mk.16; Lk.24; Jn.20-31; Acts 2:27)
#2. Proved from facts (1 Cor.15:5-8; Jn.21:14; Eph.1:20; Rev.1:12-18)
#3. Proven by the absurdity of unbelief in the resurrection (1 Cor.15:12-19)
#4. Proven by declaration of fact (1 Cor.15:20-22)
#5. Proven by prophecy (1 Cor.15:23-56)
#6. Proven by the inconsistency of those who deny it (1 Cor.15:29)
#7. Proven by faith and consecration in sacrificing all for it (1 Cor.15:30-34)
#8. Proven by nature (1 Cor.15:33-49)
#9. Proved by absolute necessity of immortality of body in order to inherit the kingdom and other promises (1 Cor.15:50-54)
#10. Proven by fulfillment of prophecy in final victory over death (1 Cor.15:43-57)
What is a mystery in Scripture? It is NOT a whodunit or a mystery story, and it is NOT something you wonder about: Was it the butler who committed the crime? A mystery in Scripture means that God is revealing something, that up to that time, He had not revealed. There are two elements which always enter into a New Testament mystery: #1. It cannot be discovered by man, for it is always a revelation from God; and #2. it is revealed at the right time and not concealed, and enough is revealed to establish the fact without all the details being disclosed.
There are fifteen mysteries in the New Testament:
#1. The mysteries of the Kingdom of Heaven (Mat.13:3-50; Mk.4:11; Lk.8:10).
#2. The mystery of His will (Eph.1:9).
#3. The great mystery of Christ and His church (Eph. 5:32; Col.4:3).
#4. The mystery of the Gospel (Eph.6:19).
#5. The mystery of Israel's blindness during this age (Rom.11:25).
#6. The mystery of the faith (1 Tim.3:9).
#7. The mystery of the translation of living saints at the end of this age (1 Cor.15:51-52; 1 Thes.4:13-17).
#8. The mystery of the N.T. Church as one body composed of Jews and Gentiles (Eph.3:1-12; 6:19; Rom.16:25; Col.4:3).
#9. The mystery of the Church as the bride of Christ (Eph.5:23-32).
#10. The mystery of being in Christ (Gal.2:20; Col.1:26-27).
#11. The mystery of Christ as the incarnate fullness of the Godhead embodied, in whom all the divine wisdom for man subsists (1 Cor.2:7; Col.2:2,9).
#12. The mystery of godliness (1 Tim.3:16).
#13. The mystery of iniquity (2 Thes.2:7; Mat.13:33).
#14. The mystery of the seven stars (Rev.1:20).
#15. The mystery of the woman (Rev.17:5,7).
My friend, even with all these, God has NOT revealed everything to us. There are many things God has NOT told us, because it is not necessary for us to know. When it is necessary, He will reveal them to us.
The Lord’s Day, Sunday
If we examine the New Testament Passages, we will find four important facts:
#1. Any time Christ appeared in His resurrected form and the day is mentioned, it is always the first day of the week (Mat.28:1,9,10; Mk.16:9; Lk.24:1,13,15; Jn.20:19,26).
#2. The only time the Sabbath is mentioned from Acts, all through the Book of Revelation, it is for evangelistic purposes to the Jews and the setting is usually in a synagogue (Acts chapters 13–18). Paul wrote: 1 Cor.9:20 And unto the Jews I became as a Jew, that I might gain the Jews; to them that are under the law, as under the law, that I might gain them that are under the law; (KJV) . . . The Sabbath was one of the JEWISH Laws. Ex. 20:10-11 But the seventh day is the sabbath of the LORD thy God: in it thou shalt not do any work, thou, nor thy son, nor thy daughter, thy manservant, nor thy maidservant, nor thy cattle, nor thy stranger that is within thy gates: 11 For in six days the LORD made heaven and earth, the sea, and all that in them is, and rested the seventh day: wherefore the LORD blessed the sabbath day, and hallowed it. (KJV)
Paul was a Christian, he did NOT go to the synagogue to fellowship with and edify the saints, he went to convict and save the lost (Jews and Gentiles).
#3. Paul stated to the Jews: Acts 18:6 And when they opposed themselves, and blasphemed, he shook his raiment, and said unto them, Your blood be upon your own heads; I am clean: from henceforth I will go unto the Gentiles. (KJV) . . . From now on I will go to the Gentiles! The Sabbath is never again mentioned.
#4. Instead of suggesting loyalty to the Sabbath day, the remainder of the New Testament implies the opposite (including the one exception to fact 3 above). Col. 2:16 Let no man therefore judge you in meat, or in drink, or in respect of an holyday, or of the new moon, or of the sabbath days: (KJV)
There is no obligation for the believer in Christ to keep the Sabbath. Those who teach Sunday as the “Christian Sabbath” is also NOT Scriptural. Read it again: Let no man therefore judge you in meat, or in drink, or in respect of an holyday, or of the new moon, or of the sabbath days: . . . Col. 2:17 Which are a shadow of things to come; but the body is of Christ. (KJV)
My friend, the Jewish Sabbath was abolished at the cross! Col.2:14 Blotting out the handwriting of ordinances that was against us, which was contrary to us, and took it out of the way, nailing it to his cross; (KJV)
This idea is repeated more than once in the New Testament. Romans 14:5-6 One man esteemeth one day above another: another esteemeth every day alike. Let every man be fully persuaded in his own mind. 6 He that regardeth the day, regardeth it unto the Lord; and he that regardeth not the day, to the Lord he doth not regard it. He that eateth, eateth to the Lord, for he giveth God thanks; and he that eateth not, to the Lord he eateth not, and giveth God thanks. (KJV)
Gal. 4:9-10 But now, after that ye have known God, or rather are known of God, how turn ye again to the weak and beggarly elements, whereunto ye desire again to be in bondage?
10 Ye observe days, and months, and times, and years. (KJV)
Some claim that an order by Constantine in A.D. 321 “changed” the Sabbath from Saturday to Sunday. On what day did the early church meet for worship? Scripture NEVER mentions any Sabbath (Saturday) gatherings by believers for fellowship or worship. BUT, there are clear Passages that mention the first day of the week, Sunday.
Acts 20:7 And upon the first day of the week, when the disciples came together to break bread, Paul preached unto them, ready to depart on the morrow; and continued his speech until midnight. (KJV)
1 Cor.16:2 Upon the first day of the week let every one of you lay by him in store, as God hath prospered him, that there be no gatherings when I come. (KJV)
2 Cor. 9:12 For the administration of this service not only supplieth the want of the saints, but is abundant also by many thanksgivings unto God; (KJV) . . . Since Paul calls the offering, service, this collection must have been linked with the Sunday worship service of the Christian assembly. Historically, Sunday not Saturday, was the normal meeting day for the early Christians to meet in the church, with this practice dating back to the first century.
The Sabbath Law was given to Israel, the Jews (Ex.20:10-11; Deut.5:14-14), NOT the church. The Jewish Sabbath is still Saturday, not Sunday, and has never been changed. But the Sabbath is part of the Old Testament Law, and Christians are free from the bondage of the Law (Jn.1:17; Rom.5:14; 10:4; Eph.2:15; Col.2:14-23; Heb.9:13-18; 10:1-10).
Mat. 5:17 Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfil. (KJV) . . . The Lord Jesus fulfilled the Law! We are now under grace.
Rom. 6:14 For sin shall not have dominion over you: for ye are not under the law, but under grace. (KJV) . . . Sabbath keeping is not required by Christians.
Sunday, the first day of the week, is the Lord's Day (Rev.1:10), celebrates the New Covenant, with Christ as our resurrected Head. No TRUE Christin is obligated to follow the Mosaic Law of the Sabbath. We no longer need to rest on the Sabbath, because we are now free to follow the risen Christ . . . serving Him! My dear friend, we as God’s TRUE children, are to worship Him every day, not just on Saturday or Sunday.
Covenant, new: (Deut.29:14; Jer. 31:31; Mat.26:28; Mk.14:24; Lk.22:20; Rom.6:14; 11:27; 1 Cor.11:25; 2 Cor.3:5; Heb.7:22; 8:8,19; 9:15; 10:16; 12:24)
1 Corinthians
ch.1. . ch.2 . . ch.3 . . ch.4 . . ch.5 . . ch.6 . . ch.7 . . ch.8 . . ch.9 . . ch.10 . . ch.11 . . ch.12 . . ch.13 . . ch.14 . . ch.15 . . ch.16
Home Page
|