life

Blog for Podcast #82 (A look at 1 Timothy)

bible, Bible study, Christian, Christian Life, General, Guide, Life, Relationship, , , , , , Leave a comment

Intro

This is Dreamwalker1960. As a reminder you can read the transcripts of all my podcasts at dreamwalker1960.com. You can use most podcast platforms if you wish to listen. All you need do is do a search for Dreamwalker1960.

Discussion

A few weeks back I did a podcast about the laws within the Bible. In that study I showed mostly from Jesus Christ Himself that we are still to follow those laws within the Bible that pass the litmus test of the greatest commandments. Those being:

Matthew 22:37-40 – Jesus replied, “‘You must love the LORD your God with all your heart, all your soul, and all your mind.’ 38 This is the first and greatest commandment. 39 A second is equally important: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ 40 The entire law and all the demands of the prophets are based on these two commandments.”

Today I turned to Paul’s first letter to Timothy and how the Lord Jesus Christ impressed upon him how to see the laws of Exodus, Deuteronomy, and Leviticus:

1 Timothy 1:3-11 – When I left for Macedonia, I urged you to stay there in Ephesus and stop those whose teaching is contrary to the truth. 4 Don’t let them waste their time in endless discussion of myths and spiritual pedigrees. These things only lead to meaningless speculations, which don’t help people live a life of faith in God. 5 The purpose of my instruction is that all believers would be filled with love that comes from a pure heart, a clear conscience, and genuine faith. 6 But some people have missed this whole point. They have turned away from these things and spend their time in meaningless discussions. 7 They want to be known as teachers of the law of Moses, but they don’t know what they are talking about, even though they speak so confidently. 8 We know that the law is good when used correctly. 9 For the law was not intended for people who do what is right. It is for people who are lawless and rebellious, who are ungodly and sinful, who consider nothing sacred and defile what is holy, who kill their father or mother or commit other murders. 10 The law is for people who are sexually immoral, or who practice homosexuality, or are slave traders, liars, promise breakers, or who do anything else that contradicts the wholesome teaching 11 that comes from the glorious Good News entrusted to me by our blessed God.

This is the foundation of the laws that govern nations in Europe and the Americas, as well as some parts of Asia. In addition Australia. As we all know though not all the laws that should have been carried forward into this state laws did not make the cut. It took centuries for slavery to be ended, yet it should have been one of the first to die out.

Why? Because of those that falsely taught the Bible. As the first chapter of 1 Timothy concludes Paul names two people that has accepted Jesus Christ as their Savior and had also been filled with the Holy Spirit. However, Paul states that he had cut them out of the church of Christ:

1 Timothy 1:18-20 – Timothy, my son, here are my instructions for you, based on the prophetic words spoken about you earlier. May they help you fight well in the Lord’s battles. 19 Cling to your faith in Christ, and keep your conscience clear. For some people have deliberately violated their consciences; as a result, their faith has been shipwrecked. 20 Hymenaeus and Alexander are two examples. I threw them out and handed them over to Satan so they might learn not to blaspheme God.

Throughout this letter we are instructed in how those that seek to follow Jesus Christ should live and behave. Be they a leader in the church or a deacon. It is how all should seek to live their lives if they call themselves “Christian.”

In the fourth chapter it speaks of the end times and how many that believe they are “Christian” will act:

1 Timothy 4:1-5 – Now the Holy Spirit tells us clearly that in the last times some will turn away from the true faith; they will follow deceptive spirits and teachings that come from demons. 2 These people are hypocrites and liars, and their consciences are dead. 3 They will say it is wrong to be married and wrong to eat certain foods. But God created those foods to be eaten with thanks by faithful people who know the truth. 4 Since everything God created is good, we should not reject any of it but receive it with thanks. 5 For we know it is made acceptable by the word of God and prayer.

They “will turn away from the true faith.” This means they knew the “true faith.” Marriage is on the decrease in the world today and there are those that say we are not eat certain food. Vegetarians, Vegans as well as those that say we must eat only Organic foods.

Then there are those that are into physical fitness. Paul wrote this:

1 Timothy 4:8 – “Physical training is good, but training for godliness is much better, promising benefits in this life and in the life to come.”

This is why it is so important to not just read the Bible but study it. Never take any humans words about what is in the Bible. I include myself in this statement. For all humans are flaws and able to sin and make mistakes, even in the understanding of the scriptures. This is why all must approach to seek the true knowledge of God with the help of the Holy Spirit, who will grant discernment to those that diligently seek the truth of the Bible. By prayer and study of the Bible, and to verify what they hear from the mouths of humans.

1 Thessalonians 5:21 – but test everything that is said. Hold on to what is good.

In the last verse of chapter four. Paul tells this to Timothy:

1 Timothy 4:16- Keep a close watch on how you live and on your teaching. Stay true to what is right for the sake of your own salvation and the salvation of those who hear you.

How can you stay true to what is right?

The answer is simple. Attempting to live our lives as Jesus Christ instructed:

Matthew 6:19-34 – “Don’t store up treasures here on earth, where moths eat them and rust destroys them, and where thieves break in and steal. 20 Store your treasures in heaven, where moths and rust cannot destroy, and thieves do not break in and steal. 21 Wherever your treasure is, there the desires of your heart will also be. 22 “Your eye is like a lamp that provides light for your body. When your eye is healthy, your whole body is filled with light. 23 But when your eye is unhealthy, your whole body is filled with darkness. And if the light you think you have is actually darkness, how deep that darkness is! 24 “No one can serve two masters. For you will hate one and love the other; you will be devoted to one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and be enslaved to money. 25 “That is why I tell you not to worry about everyday life—whether you have enough food and drink, or enough clothes to wear. Isn’t life more than food, and your body more than clothing? 26 Look at the birds. They don’t plant or harvest or store food in barns, for your heavenly Father feeds them. And aren’t you far more valuable to him than they are? 27 Can all your worries add a single moment to your life? 28 “And why worry about your clothing? Look at the lilies of the field and how they grow. They don’t work or make their clothing, 29 yet Solomon in all his glory was not dressed as beautifully as they are. 30 And if God cares so wonderfully for wildflowers that are here today and thrown into the fire tomorrow, he will certainly care for you. Why do you have so little faith? 31 “So don’t worry about these things, saying, ‘What will we eat? What will we drink? What will we wear?’ 32 These things dominate the thoughts of unbelievers, but your heavenly Father already knows all your needs. 33 Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need. 34 “So don’t worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will bring its own worries. Today’s trouble is enough for today.

Do not seek after the world and all it offers. Do not seek wealth, or a fancy home. Do not seek after the latest fashion nor those that celebrate or flaunt their worldly standing.

Again, study the Bible and seek to live a righteous and holy life. This echoed in Chapter five of I Timothy. Yet we must approach this fifth chapter with understanding of the world in which they lived within at that time.

A prime example:

1 Timothy 5:23 – Don’t drink only water. You ought to drink a little wine for the sake of your stomach because you are sick so often.

Water was not purified at this time. So, this was to prevent dysentery and other illnesses that could be conveyed through unclean water. This is why you studying the Word of God is so important.

In the last chapter of this first letter to Timothy. Paul points out those that have turned their backs upon their salvation and seek only to please themselves and their worldly desires. He states that they will quibble and argue the very wording of the Bible, which is again why it is so important that each and every person come to study the Scriptures for themselves:

2 Timothy 3:16-17 – All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right. 17 God uses it to prepare and equip his people to do every good work.

God Bless

Blog for Podcast # 81 (Which “God” do you really worship?)

bible, Bible study, Christian, Christian Life, General, Guide, Life, Relationship, , , , , , Leave a comment

Intro

This is Dreamwalker1960. As a reminder you can read the transcripts of all my podcasts at dreamwalker1960.com. You can use most podcast platforms if you wish to listen. All you need do is do a search for Dreamwalker1960.

Discussion

In the title of this podcast, I used the word “god” in quotation marks. Why? Because there are two “gods” being worshiped at this time. To understand the answer to that question we turn to the Bible:

2 Corinthians 4:1-6 – Therefore, since God in his mercy has given us this new way, we never give up. 2 We reject all shameful deeds and underhanded methods. We don’t try to trick anyone or distort the word of God. We tell the truth before God, and all who are honest know this. 3 If the Good News we preach is hidden behind a veil, it is hidden only from people who are perishing. 4 Satan, who is the god of this world, has blinded the minds of those who don’t believe. They are unable to see the glorious light of the Good News. They don’t understand this message about the glory of Christ, who is the exact likeness of God. 5 You see, we don’t go around preaching about ourselves. We preach that Jesus Christ is Lord, and we ourselves are your servants for Jesus’ sake. 6 For God, who said, “Let there be light in the darkness,” has made this light shine in our hearts so we could know the glory of God that is seen in the face of Jesus Christ.

“Satan, who is the god of this world.”

Here are verses that deal with those that look to the world:

1 John 2:15-17 – Do not love this world nor the things it offers you, for when you love the world, you do not have the love of the Father in you. 16 For the world offers only a craving for physical pleasure, a craving for everything we see, and pride in our achievements and possessions. These are not from the Father, but are from this world. 17 And this world is fading away, along with everything that people crave. But anyone who does what pleases God will live forever.

There are those out there that seek after the things this world offers, and they call themselves “Christian.” They pray to receive “rewards” here on earth, and they are “blessed” with these items.

Their true “god” is giving them what they seek and want. All the time the are walking away form the light of Jesus Christ and into the darkness of damnation. For their “god” is not the Creator of the universe, but he who fell to earth to corrupt those that do not wish to hear the truth.

Let us look at this from a different angle.

2 Peter 2:1-3 – But there were also false prophets in Israel, just as there will be false teachers among you. They will cleverly teach destructive heresies and even deny the Master who bought them. In this way, they will bring sudden destruction on themselves. 2 Many will follow their evil teaching and shameful immorality. And because of these teachers, the way of truth will be slandered. 3 In their greed they will make up clever lies to get hold of your money. But God condemned them long ago, and their destruction will not be delayed.

These are those that teach the false gospel. The gospel that causes those that say they are “Christian,” but in reality, they truly are not. This is the “gospel” that offers “rewards” here on earth and condones sinful behavior. All because they are “loved by God.”

Let us take a closer look at these verses, starting with the KJV of them:

2 Peter 2:1 – But there were false prophets also among the people, even as there shall be false teachers among you, who privily shall bring in damnable heresies, even denying the Lord that bought them, and bring upon themselves swift destruction.

First let us look at this part of the first verse of this chapter:

“Even denying the Lord that bought them.”

Lord – G1203 – despotés – (husband); an absolute ruler, Lord, master.

To those that know the Bible. There is only one “absolute ruler.” That being God and those that call themselves truly “Christian,” know God through our Savior the Son of God: Jesus Christ. So, the absolute ruler is Christ.

Therefore, these false teachers, at one point were followers of Jesus Christ and so could truly call themselves true “Christians.” Yet they now deny Christ. They have turned their backs upon Him. What is it they turned towards?

2 Peter 2:3 – And through covetousness shall they with feigned words make merchandise of you: whose judgment now of a long time lingereth not, and their damnation slumbereth not.

“And through covetousness.”

Covetousness – G4124 – pleonexia – avarice, that is, (by implication) fraudulency, extortion.

Shalt they with feigned – G4112 – plastos – moulded, that is (by implication) artificial, or figuratively (fictious) false.

  1. Moulded – to make a soft substance have a particular shape.

Meaning to mold the True Gospel into something that is pleasing to those listening. Like saying that there is only love in the Bible. Never showing you the wrath of God’s anger towards those that chose to embrace the world, as is noted in the first verse for these false teachers:

“And bring upon themselves swift destruction.”

What many do not realize, is the moment they prosper here on earth. They are at that very moment building up this “swift destruction,” which is witnessed by them receiving worldly “rewards.”

For they are being “rewarded” by their true “god,” who is the master of the domain where they receive their “rewards.” If it is here on earth that they are receiving these “rewards,” then their lord is Satan. If they are storing their treasures in heaven, then their Lord is God through our Savior Jesus Christ.

Matthew 6:19-24 – “Don’t store up treasures here on earth, where moths eat them and rust destroys them, and where thieves break in and steal. 20 Store your treasures in heaven, where moths and rust cannot destroy, and thieves do not break in and steal. 21 Wherever your treasure is, there the desires of your heart will also be. 22 “Your eye is like a lamp that provides light for your body. When your eye is healthy, your whole body is filled with light. 23 But when your eye is unhealthy, your whole body is filled with darkness. And if the light you think you have is actually darkness, how deep that darkness is! 24 “No one can serve two masters. For you will hate one and love the other; you will be devoted to one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and be enslaved to money.

This wording is stating that money is Satan, and as such any who truly call themselves “Christian” will despise money for who it truly represents.

Now let us look at the second verse of 2 Peter 2 in the KJV:

2 Peter 2:2 – And many shall follow their pernicious ways; by reason of whom the way of truth shall be evil spoken of.

Many – G4183 – polus – many, mostly, largely.

  1. Mostly – in large degree or amount

Matthew 7:13-14 – “You can enter God’s Kingdom only through the narrow gate. The highway to hell is broad, and its gate is wide for the many who choose that way. 14 But the gateway to life is very narrow and the road is difficult, and only a few ever find it.

Verse thirteen shows the free-will of humanity, and why it is made clear that people willingly go to the fires of damnation.

Matthew 7:13 – Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat:

“And many there be which go in thereat.”

Thereat – G1223 and G846 –

G1223 – dia – through, on account of, because of

G846 – autos – self, he she it, own

“Many will go through it spiritually on their own;” is the implication when studying the phrase with both Strong’s Concordance and TDNT.

Once again, the word “many” appears. Why is this so important to zero in on?

Because most that call themselves “Christian” believe they are taking the narrow path and entering that small gate, which leads them into heaven. However, this is not the case at all if they have been paying attention to this study.

Where is it you are receiving your “rewards?”

Are you struggling here on this earth? Do you find it difficult to make any headway here in this temporal realm of existence?

If your answer is yes, then you most likely fall into the group that is entering the narrow gate.

If your answer is no, and you have money to spare. Have luxuries like a large house, fancy cars. Expensive furniture. You enjoy playing golf. In addition, you look down upon other and think yourself special and beyond harm. Then you are on the wide path, which does not lead to heaven, but to hell.

For your “god” is not the Creator of the universe. But he who was placed in control of this temporal plain of existence. Placed here to test all of humanity and to see who would turn towards the true God through His Son our Savior Jesus Christ.

Or to look to themselves. To seek to please themselves. To give pleasure and satisfaction to themselves.

I will end this study with the 1 John chapter 2 once again. Where the verses before these made it clear that John was talking to both the new and old born-again Christian. Filled with the Holy Spirit and professed to be children of God though Jesus Christ:

1 John 2:15-17 – Do not love this world nor the things it offers you, for when you love the world, you do not have the love of the Father in you. 16 For the world offers only a craving for physical pleasure, a craving for everything we see, and pride in our achievements and possessions. These are not from the Father, but are from this world. 17 And this world is fading away, along with everything that people crave. But anyone who does what pleases God will live forever.

So, who is your “god?”

The Lord God our Creator?

Or the one He cast down from heaven to be the god of this world we now live within?

God Bless.

Blog for Podcast #80 (The curse of money)

bible, Bible study, Christian, Christian Life, General, Guide, Life, Relationship, , , , , , , Leave a comment

Intro

This is Dreamwalker1960. As a reminder you can read the transcripts of all my podcasts at dreamwalker1960.com. You can use most podcast platforms if you wish to listen. All you need do is do a search for Dreamwalker1960.

Discussion

I will begin this study with two times money is an issue with Jesus Christ. The first:

Matthew 6:19-24 – “Don’t store up treasures here on earth, where moths eat them and rust destroys them, and where thieves break in and steal. 20 Store your treasures in heaven, where moths and rust cannot destroy, and thieves do not break in and steal. 21 Wherever your treasure is, there the desires of your heart will also be. 22 “Your eye is like a lamp that provides light for your body. When your eye is healthy, your whole body is filled with light. 23 But when your eye is unhealthy, your whole body is filled with darkness. And if the light you think you have is actually darkness, how deep that darkness is! 24 “No one can serve two masters. For you will hate one and love the other; you will be devoted to one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and be enslaved to money.

And the second:

Mark 10:17-31 – As Jesus was starting out on his way to Jerusalem, a man came running up to him, knelt down, and asked, “Good Teacher, what must I do to inherit eternal life?” 18 “Why do you call me good?” Jesus asked. “Only God is truly good. 19 But to answer your question, you know the commandments: ‘You must not murder. You must not commit adultery. You must not steal. You must not testify falsely. You must not cheat anyone. Honor your father and mother.’” 20 “Teacher,” the man replied, “I’ve obeyed all these commandments since I was young.” 21 Looking at the man, Jesus felt genuine love for him. “There is still one thing you haven’t done,” he told him. “Go and sell all your possessions and give the money to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me.” 22 At this the man’s face fell, and he went away sad, for he had many possessions. 23 Jesus looked around and said to his disciples, “How hard it is for the rich to enter the Kingdom of God!” 24 This amazed them. But Jesus said again, “Dear children, it is very hard to enter the Kingdom of God. 25 In fact, it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich person to enter the Kingdom of God!” 26 The disciples were astounded. “Then who in the world can be saved?” they asked. 27 Jesus looked at them intently and said, “Humanly speaking, it is impossible. But not with God. Everything is possible with God.” 28 Then Peter began to speak up. “We’ve given up everything to follow you,” he said. 29 “Yes,” Jesus replied, “and I assure you that everyone who has given up house or brothers or sisters or mother or father or children or property, for my sake and for the Good News, 30 will receive now in return a hundred times as many houses, brothers, sisters, mothers, children, and property—along with persecution. And in the world to come that person will have eternal life. 31 But many who are the greatest now will be least important then, and those who seem least important now will be the greatest then.”

It is the end of this second that I wish people to really look at and think upon. Those that are rich think themselves great and rewarded. But as is shown in the first verses. Those that store up their treasures here on earth do not think about their treasures in heaven. What else is said about the seeking after the things of this world?

1 John 2:15-17 – Do not love this world nor the things it offers you, for when you love the world, you do not have the love of the Father in you. 16 For the world offers only a craving for physical pleasure, a craving for everything we see, and pride in our achievements and possessions. These are not from the Father, but are from this world. 17 And this world is fading away, along with everything that people crave. But anyone who does what pleases God will live forever.

Therefore, if money is of the world. Who is in charge in this world?

2 Corinthians 4:4 – Satan, who is the god of this world, has blinded the minds of those who don’t believe. They are unable to see the glorious light of the Good News. They don’t understand this message about the glory of Christ, who is the exact likeness of God.

This is why money is a curse and it is something that should not be sought after by anyone, especially those that profess to be “Christian.” For they are not worshipping our Creator God through Jesus Christ, but the great deceiver himself whom they have given power to by seeking after worldly rewards.

As shown in the first verses read in today’s study Christians are not to store any treasures here on earth. As is verified here:

Acts 2:44-45 – And all the believers met together in one place and shared everything they had. 45 They sold their property and possessions and shared the money with those in need.

And exemplified here:

2 Corinthians 9:6-15 – Remember this—a farmer who plants only a few seeds will get a small crop. But the one who plants generously will get a generous crop. 7 You must each decide in your heart how much to give. And don’t give reluctantly or in response to pressure. “For God loves a person who gives cheerfully.” 8 And God will generously provide all you need. Then you will always have everything you need and plenty left over to share with others. 9 As the Scriptures say, “They share freely and give generously to the poor. Their good deeds will be remembered forever.” 10 For God is the one who provides seed for the farmer and then bread to eat. In the same way, he will provide and increase your resources and then produce a great harvest of generosity in you. 11 Yes, you will be enriched in every way so that you can always be generous. And when we take your gifts to those who need them, they will thank God. 12 So two good things will result from this ministry of giving—the needs of the believers in Jerusalem will be met, and they will joyfully express their thanks to God. 13 As a result of your ministry, they will give glory to God. For your generosity to them and to all believers will prove that you are obedient to the Good News of Christ. 14 And they will pray for you with deep affection because of the overflowing grace God has given to you. 15 Thank God for this gift too wonderful for words!

That is why being covetous is seen as a sin and is used 30 times in the New Testament alone as “covet,” (16) ”covetous,” (4) and “covetousness.” (10)

Covet -G1937 – epithumeó – I long for, lust after, set the heart upon.

Covetous -G4123 – pleonektés – an avaricious person; one desirous of having more.

Covetousness – G4124 –  pleonexia – avarice, aggression, desire for advantage.

The Bible makes it very clear. That those that seek after riches will not be allowed into heaven.

1 Corinthians 6:9-10 – Don’t you realize that those who do wrong will not inherit the Kingdom of God? Don’t fool yourselves. Those who indulge in sexual sin, or who worship idols, or commit adultery, or are male prostitutes, or practice homosexuality, 10 or are thieves, or greedy people, or drunkards, or are abusive, or cheat people—none of these will inherit the Kingdom of God.

For those that just need to see or hear it in the KJV:

1 Corinthians 6:9-10 – Know ye not that the unrighteous shall not inherit the kingdom of God? Be not deceived: neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor effeminate, nor abusers of themselves with mankind, 10 Nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners, shall inherit the kingdom of God.

However, millions that call themselves “Christian” do and continually seek after worldly wealth and possessions.

Why?

Because their parents did and so since they can so can they. For they too called themselves “Christian.”

It is true. That for generations people have sought to amass wealth and worldly possessions and still belief with all their heart that they were “Christian.”

It is this mentality that has been seen for over two thousand years. In fact, it is a sin that has been seen since Kane killed Abel. It was this mentality that kept and to be honest still keeps people in slavery. It is this mentality that was a factor in the Crusades. It was this mentality that sent the Spanish into the Americas. Where they slaughtered entire civilizations. All in the name of Christendom, but in reality, was covetousness. The desire to have more and more riches and property. Entire wars were fought for the love of money. Murders are committed because of greed.

1 Timothy 6:3-10 – Some people may contradict our teaching, but these are the wholesome teachings of the Lord Jesus Christ. These teachings promote a godly life. 4 Anyone who teaches something different is arrogant and lacks understanding. Such a person has an unhealthy desire to quibble over the meaning of words. This stirs up arguments ending in jealousy, division, slander, and evil suspicions. 5 These people always cause trouble. Their minds are corrupt, and they have turned their backs on the truth. To them, a show of godliness is just a way to become wealthy. 6 Yet true godliness with contentment is itself great wealth. 7 After all, we brought nothing with us when we came into the world, and we can’t take anything with us when we leave it. 8 So if we have enough food and clothing, let us be content. 9 But people who long to be rich fall into temptation and are trapped by many foolish and harmful desires that plunge them into ruin and destruction. 10 For the love of money is the root of all kinds of evil. And some people, craving money, have wandered from the true faith and pierced themselves with many sorrows.

So those right now that wish to quibble over this study need to stop in sudden shock that they wish to do so. For they are a living example of those described in verse four and five of the sixth chapter of 1 Timothy.

So let me repeat those verses in the KJV

1 Timothy 6:4-5 – He is proud, knowing nothing, but doting about questions and strifes of words, whereof cometh envy, strife, railings, evil surmisings, 5 Perverse disputings of men of corrupt minds, and destitute of the truth, supposing that gain is godliness: from such withdraw thyself.

But we that seek to follow the true teachings of the Word of God, must do as instructed in the KJV of these verses.

“From such withdraw thyself.”

We are ordered by the Word of God to not associate with those that live a life contrary to the teachings within the Bible. For as was shown they will cause there to be jealousy, division, slander, and evil suspicions. Which can and has been shown if you look back throughout the centuries, great strife and horrors all over the world itself. All because people have turned from the true teachings of the Scriptures. They have instead embarrassed the world; we now live within. Instead of seeking to store up those treasures, which are precious unto God through His Son our Savior Jesus Christ.

They seek the pleasures and rewards of a mere one hundred years of life over the billions upon billions of years of eternal life promised to all that seek to please God first and themselves last.

God Bless

Blog for Podcast # 83 (Those who they know God but would rather live in sin)

bible, Bible study, Christian, Christian Life, General, Guide, Life, Relationship, , , , , , , Leave a comment

Intro

This is Dreamwalker1960. As a reminder you can read the transcripts of all my podcasts at dreamwalker1960.com. You can use most podcast platforms if you wish to listen. All you need do is do a search for Dreamwalker1960.

Discussion

In my podcast “The laws within the Bible.” A person on Facebook came back with stating that Galatians 2 removed the need to follow the commandments. I explained that if they had bothered to listen to the podcast, they would have heard my explanation about that chapter.

However here I will use the Bible to answer this:

1 John 2:4 – If someone claims, “I know God,” but doesn’t obey God’s commandments, that person is a liar and is not living in the truth.

Once again, we see from someone that knew Jesus Christ in person, that the commandments are to be followed as long as they pass the litmus test of the greatest commandments:

Matthew 22:37-40 – Jesus replied, “‘You must love the LORD your God with all your heart, all your soul, and all your mind.’ 38 This is the first and greatest commandment. 39 A second is equally important: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ 40 The entire law and all the demands of the prophets are based on these two commandments.”

John continues with this:

1 John 2:9-11 – If anyone claims, “I am living in the light,” but hates a fellow believer, that person is still living in darkness. 10 Anyone who loves a fellow believer is living in the light and does not cause others to stumble. 11 But anyone who hates a fellow believer is still living and walking in darkness. Such a person does not know the way to go, having been blinded by the darkness.

Later John says this:

1 John 3:6-10 – Anyone who continues to live in him will not sin. But anyone who keeps on sinning does not know him or understand who he is. 7 Dear children, don’t let anyone deceive you about this: When people do what is right, it shows that they are righteous, even as Christ is righteous. 8 But when people keep on sinning, it shows that they belong to the devil, who has been sinning since the beginning. But the Son of God came to destroy the works of the devil. 9 Those who have been born into God’s family do not make a practice of sinning, because God’s life is in them. So they can’t keep on sinning, because they are children of God. 10 So now we can tell who are children of God and who are children of the devil. Anyone who does not live righteously and does not love other believers does not belong to God.

What is it to live righteously?

James 1:19-27 – Understand this, my dear brothers and sisters: You must all be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to get angry. 20 Human anger does not produce the righteousness God desires. 21 So get rid of all the filth and evil in your lives, and humbly accept the word God has planted in your hearts, for it has the power to save your souls. 22 But don’t just listen to God’s word. You must do what it says. Otherwise, you are only fooling yourselves. 23 For if you listen to the word and don’t obey, it is like glancing at your face in a mirror. 24 You see yourself, walk away, and forget what you look like. 25 But if you look carefully into the perfect law that sets you free, and if you do what it says and don’t forget what you heard, then God will bless you for doing it. 26 If you claim to be religious but don’t control your tongue, you are fooling yourself, and your religion is worthless. 27 Pure and genuine religion in the sight of God the Father means caring for orphans and widows in their distress and refusing to let the world corrupt you.

How does the world corrupt you?

1 John 2:15-16 – Do not love this world nor the things it offers you, for when you love the world, you do not have the love of the Father in you. 16 For the world offers only a craving for physical pleasure, a craving for everything we see, and pride in our achievements and possessions. These are not from the Father, but are from this world.

Therefore, seeking after wealth, status, legacy. Seeking after a fancy house, a fancy car, fancy clothing. This is living in sin and thus not a righteous life. Seeking after anything, shows that the you care more for this world than for the eternal life to come, thus revealing you love the world more than God.

1 John 2:17 – And this world is fading away, along with everything that people crave. But anyone who does what pleases God will live forever.

“But anyone who does what pleases God will live forever.”

As we heard from James earlier:

“Pure and genuine religion in the sight of God the Father means caring for orphans and widows in their distress and refusing to let the world corrupt you.”

When someone seeks for their own glory ignoring those in need and in dire straits. They are in darkness. They are in sin. They have embraced the world. Then who is of the world?

2 Corinthians 4:4 – Satan, who is the god of this world, has blinded the minds of those who don’t believe. They are unable to see the glorious light of the Good News. They don’t understand this message about the glory of Christ, who is the exact likeness of God.

Getting what you want. What you desire. What you lust for. What you crave. Completely falls in line with 1 John 2:15-17. So, you yearn for Satan who is the god of the world.

Who is it that rewards you then with riches, with all you desire here in this temporal realm of existence?

Satan.

All he is offering is this measly one hundred years of existence, compared to that which God offers us.

“But anyone who does what pleases God will live forever.”

How long is forever?

It is billions upon billions upon billions of years.

2 Corinthians 5:1-10 – For we know that when this earthly tent we live in is taken down (that is, when we die and leave this earthly body), we will have a house in heaven, an eternal body made for us by God himself and not by human hands. 2 We grow weary in our present bodies, and we long to put on our heavenly bodies like new clothing. 3 For we will put on heavenly bodies; we will not be spirits without bodies. 4 While we live in these earthly bodies, we groan and sigh, but it’s not that we want to die and get rid of these bodies that clothe us. Rather, we want to put on our new bodies so that these dying bodies will be swallowed up by life. 5 God himself has prepared us for this, and as a guarantee he has given us his Holy Spirit. 6 So we are always confident, even though we know that as long as we live in these bodies we are not at home with the Lord. 7 For we live by believing and not by seeing. 8 Yes, we are fully confident, and we would rather be away from these earthly bodies, for then we will be at home with the Lord. 9 So whether we are here in this body or away from this body, our goal is to please him. 10 For we must all stand before Christ to be judged. We will each receive whatever we deserve for the good or evil we have done in this earthly body.

God Bless

Blog for podcast #78 (Colosse)

bible, Bible study, Christian, Christian Life, General, Guide, Life, Relationship, , , , , , Leave a comment

Intro

This is Dreamwalker1960. As a reminder you can read the transcripts of all my podcasts at dreamwalker1960.com. You can use most podcast platforms if you wish to listen. All you need do is do a search for Dreamwalker1960.

Discussion

In most of my podcasts I have shown how many in this world. Especially in the United States. May not be as secure with their salvation as they think. Few have listened, most have scoff, mocked and ridiculed. Today I have been led to take a different approach. Today we will look into the letter written to Colosse:

Colossians 3:1-11 – Since you have been raised to new life with Christ, set your sights on the realities of heaven, where Christ sits in the place of honor at God’s right hand. 2 Think about the things of heaven, not the things of earth. 3 For you died to this life, and your real life is hidden with Christ in God. 4 And when Christ, who is your life, is revealed to the whole world, you will share in all his glory. 5 So put to death the sinful, earthly things lurking within you. Have nothing to do with sexual immorality, impurity, lust, and evil desires. Don’t be greedy, for a greedy person is an idolater, worshiping the things of this world. 6 Because of these sins, the anger of God is coming. 7 You used to do these things when your life was still part of this world. 8 But now is the time to get rid of anger, rage, malicious behavior, slander, and dirty language. 9 Don’t lie to each other, for you have stripped off your old sinful nature and all its wicked deeds. 10 Put on your new nature, and be renewed as you learn to know your Creator and become like him. 11 In this new life, it doesn’t matter if you are a Jew or a Gentile, circumcised or uncircumcised, barbaric, uncivilized, slave, or free. Christ is all that matters, and he lives in all of us.

These verses instruct us to learn about God through Jesus Christ. The only way to learn is by studying the Bible. Not just reading it. Studying it. This means to get to the core of the teachings as they were given to those people that had accept Jesus Christ as their Savior and had been filled with the Holy Spirit. We are to leave the things of the world behind. Not thinking upon the things of this world, but upon our eternal life that is to come when Christ is fully revealed to the entire world once more.

Once again, we find a listing of sins that are not to remain within those that profess to be followers of Christ. Let us look at these in the KJV:

Colossians 3:5 – Mortify therefore your members which are upon the earth; fornication, uncleanness, inordinate affection, evil concupiscence, and covetousness, which is idolatry:

Fornication – G4202 – porneia – harlotry (including adultery and incest) figuratively idolatry; whoredom.

  1. Harlotry – prostitution

Uncleanness – G167 – akatharsia – impurity, physically or morally

inordinate affection – G3806 – pathos – a passion (especially concupiscence), (inordinate) affection, lust; suffering, emotion, depraved passion

  1. Inordinate – much more than usual or expected

Concupiscence – G1939 – epithumia – a longing (especially for what is forbidden), desire, eagerness for, inordinate desire, lust.

And once again we encounter “covetousness.”

Covetousness – G4124 – pleonexia – avarice, that is, (by implication) fraudulency, extortion, greediness, aggression, desire for advantage

  • Avarice – an extremely strong wish to get or keep money or possessions

A further listing of sins is shown in verse eight and nine. Once again, we go to the KJV;

Colossians 3:8-9 – But now ye also put off all these; anger, wrath, malice, blasphemy, filthy communication out of your mouth. 9 Lie not one to another, seeing that ye have put off the old man with his deeds;

Anger – G3709 – orgé – properly desire (as a reaching forth or excitement of the mind), that is, (by analogy) violent passion (ire, or [justifiable] abhorrence) by implication punishment: indignation, vengeance; Impulse.

Wrath – G2372 –  thumos – passion (as if breathing hard), fierceness, indignation, an outburst of passion.

Malice – G2549 – kakia – badness, that is, (subjectively) depravity, or (actively) malignity or (passively) trouble: evil, naughtiness. In Bible Hub it is listed this way: (a) evil (i.e. trouble, labor, misfortune), (b) wickedness, (c) vicious disposition, malice, spite. (basically criminal behavior)

Blasphemy – G988 – blasphémia – vilification (especially against God); abusive or scurrilous language.

filthy communication -G148 – aischrologia – vile conversation, filthy speech, foul language.

These actions and behaviors are those of the world, not those that have committed themselves to Christ. As is pointed out in these verses to the Christians in Colosse.

As the letter continues those that have accepted Christ as their Savior are told how they should behave and act:

Colossians 3:12-17 – Since God chose you to be the holy people he loves, you must clothe yourselves with tenderhearted mercy, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. 13 Make allowance for each other’s faults, and forgive anyone who offends you. Remember, the Lord forgave you, so you must forgive others. 14 Above all, clothe yourselves with love, which binds us all together in perfect harmony. 15 And let the peace that comes from Christ rule in your hearts. For as members of one body you are called to live in peace. And always be thankful. 6 Let the message about Christ, in all its richness, fill your lives. Teach and counsel each other with all the wisdom he gives. Sing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs to God with thankful hearts. 17 And whatever you do or say, do it as a representative of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks through him to God the Father.

As can be seen in these verses of this letter to the Christians of this community. Once again echo those of other teachings throughout the New Testament. To leave the world behind. Not to seek after anything that gives personal pleasures here on earth.

Nevertheless turning back to the first section we looked at today I wish to key in on how the wording to these people was presented.

“So put to death the sinful, earthly things lurking within you”

“Mortify therefore your members which are upon the earth”

Mortify – G3498 – nekros – to deaden, to subdue.

This shows we have a responsibility to end the lusts of our flesh that seek after the sins listed. We do this through seeking after the knowledge found within the Bible. So, we can try through prayer and supplication as well as study. To try and live our lives like a true follower of Jesus Christ.

By not looking for rewards and riches here on earth, but to store them up in heaven where they belong.

Matthew 6:19-24 – “Don’t store up treasures here on earth, where moths eat them and rust destroys them, and where thieves break in and steal. 20 Store your treasures in heaven, where moths and rust cannot destroy, and thieves do not break in and steal. 21 Wherever your treasure is, there the desires of your heart will also be. 22 “Your eye is like a lamp that provides light for your body. When your eye is healthy, your whole body is filled with light. 23 But when your eye is unhealthy, your whole body is filled with darkness. And if the light you think you have is actually darkness, how deep that darkness is! 24 “No one can serve two masters. For you will hate one and love the other; you will be devoted to one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and be enslaved to money.

Let us continue the third chapter of Colossians:

Colossians 3:18-25 – Wives, submit to your husbands, as is fitting for those who belong to the Lord. 19 Husbands, love your wives and never treat them harshly. 20 Children, always obey your parents, for this pleases the Lord. 21 Fathers, do not aggravate your children, or they will become discouraged. 22 Slaves, obey your earthly masters in everything you do. Try to please them all the time, not just when they are watching you. Serve them sincerely because of your reverent fear of the Lord. 23 Work willingly at whatever you do, as though you were working for the Lord rather than for people. 24 Remember that the Lord will give you an inheritance as your reward, and that the Master you are serving is Christ. 25 But if you do what is wrong, you will be paid back for the wrong you have done. For God has no favorites.

Now before we continue, I wish to rephrase a couple of verses to be more in line with today’s world:

Employees, obey your employers in everything you do. Try to please them all the time, not just when they are watching you. Serve them sincerely because of your reverent fear of the Lord. 23 Work willingly at whatever you do, as though you were working for the Lord rather than for people. 24 Remember that the Lord will give you an inheritance as your reward, and that the Employer you truly are serving is Christ.

Now with that outta the way. We are told how to act as followers of Jesus Christ.

The letter also states:

“But if you do what is wrong, you will be paid back for the wrong you have done. For God has no favorites.”

This shows that we can be cut off from God, as I have shown multiple times in my podcast and blog posts. If you do not live a Christian life, but live in, of and for the world you are doing wrong and will receive the reward you have earned for yourself. As Peter words it:

2 Peter 2:20-22 – And when people escape from the wickedness of the world by knowing our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ and then get tangled up and enslaved by sin again, they are worse off than before. 21 It would be better if they had never known the way to righteousness than to know it and then reject the command they were given to live a holy life. 22 They prove the truth of this proverb: “A dog returns to its vomit.” And another says, “A washed pig returns to the mud.”

Many have returned to their vomit and mud and believe with all their hearts they are one with God through Jesus Christ. Yet they will awaken one day to find themselves standing on the wrong side of a Great White Throne saying:

Matthew 7:22 – On judgment day many will say to me, ‘Lord! Lord! We prophesied in your name and cast out demons in your name and performed many miracles in your name.’ 23 But I will reply, ‘I never knew you. Get away from me, you who break God’s laws.’

Ponder and think

God Bless

Blog for podcast #77 (How to return towards God)

bible, Bible study, Christian, Christian Life, General, Guide, Life, Relationship, , , , , , , , Leave a comment

Intro

This is Dreamwalker1960. As a reminder you can read the transcripts of all my podcasts at dreamwalker1960.com. You can use most podcast platforms if you wish to listen. All you need do is do a search for Dreamwalker1960.

Discussion

If you have been following any of my podcasts or blog posts. You understand where I am coming from in how people relate to the world instead of God. More so than many realize.

For a starting point people need to accept that there is a need to hit the restart button on how they worship our Lord God through His Son our Savior Jesus Christ. The best place to do this is with scripture:

Acts 2:42-47 – All the believers devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching, and to fellowship, and to sharing in meals (including the Lord’s Supper), and to prayer. 43 A deep sense of awe came over them all, and the apostles performed many miraculous signs and wonders. 44 And all the believers met together in one place and shared everything they had. 45 They sold their property and possessions and shared the money with those in need. 46 They worshiped together at the Temple each day, met in homes for the Lord’s Supper, and shared their meals with great joy and generosity— 47 all the while praising God and enjoying the goodwill of all the people. And each day the Lord added to their fellowship those who were being saved.

Some of this will be hard to do in today’s society but an effort must be made to make an attempt to do these things. Also, some aspects will be a very hard pill to sallow for many out there. Mainly because they do not wish to let go of the world.

One point that needs to be pointed out is reference to the Temple. These are the people that lived in Jerusalem, and this is THE Temple, which was destroyed in 70 A.D. This is not a statement that we must go to a building and then call it a church.

A build is a possession. A building takes money to maintain. Therefore, in my eyes. The bigger the building the bigger the possession, the bigger the sin against God. Can you meet in a small building? That is up to you. But I would leave anything called a “church” that is big and especially one that is called “mega.” A prime example of this is the “church” made by the false teacher Joel Osteen. Who brags about how much worldly wealth he has, which is totally against the teachings of Jesus Christ in Matthew 6:19-24. Accordingly, I embrace verse forty-five.

“They sold their property and possessions and shared the money with those in need.”

If you are so desirous to “own” a place to live. Get a condo and I don’t mean an expensive one, but the cheaper the better. I live in an RV myself. For it provides the needs. It gives me shelter from the weather. I store what clothes I need to cover my nakedness and I prepare my food and eat within it. It meets all my needs, and was provided to me by God, through listening to His Holy Spirit.

This is the first and greatest stumbling block that must be overcome. It is the willingness to let go of the world and all it offers. For as stated in Matthew 6 we are not to store up our treasures here on earth. Yet most that profess to being “Christian” do. As a result, most are living in rejection of the teachings of Jesus Christ. In doing so they are living in sin.

The mere fact that this just upset many who call themselves “Christian” is verification that we are living in the times of the lukewarm Christian. So once again as a reminder we will return to this letter to see this:

Revelation 3:14-22 – “Write this letter to the angel of the church in Laodicea. This is the message from the one who is the Amen—the faithful and true witness, the beginning of God’s creation: 15 “I know all the things you do, that you are neither hot nor cold. I wish that you were one or the other! 16 But since you are like lukewarm water, neither hot nor cold, I will spit you out of my mouth! 17 You say, ‘I am rich. I have everything I want. I don’t need a thing!’ And you don’t realize that you are wretched and miserable and poor and blind and naked. 18 So I advise you to buy gold from me—gold that has been purified by fire. Then you will be rich. Also buy white garments from me so you will not be shamed by your nakedness, and ointment for your eyes so you will be able to see. 19 I correct and discipline everyone I love. So be diligent and turn from your indifference. 20 “Look! I stand at the door and knock. If you hear my voice and open the door, I will come in, and we will share a meal together as friends. 21 Those who are victorious will sit with me on my throne, just as I was victorious and sat with my Father on his throne. 22 “Anyone with ears to hear must listen to the Spirit and understand what he is saying to the churches.”

“You say, ‘I am rich. I have everything I want. I don’t need a thing!’ And you don’t realize that you are wretched and miserable and poor and blind and naked.”

When a person holds onto their money and seek after all they want. Like a big house. A fancy car. Retirement plans. They are not doing God’s will. As a result, to Jesus Christ they are “wretched and miserable and poor and blind and naked.”

Since those that refuse to let go of their possessions, and thus refuse to let go of the world. What will be the result?

Jesus Christ says: “But since you are like lukewarm water, neither hot nor cold, I will spit you out of my mouth!”

Then the time will come when those that cling to the world will most likely be one of these:

“Matthew 7:22-23 – On judgment day many will say to me, ‘Lord! Lord! We prophesied in your name and cast out demons in your name and performed many miracles in your name.’ 23 But I will reply, ‘I never knew you. Get away from me, you who break God’s laws.’

And yes, that is the Great White Throne Judgment Day and so they will have missed out upon the rapture or raptures, depending upon your view on that point.

Therefore, downsizing should be everyone’s foremost priority once they embrace salvation from Jesus Christ and accept being a Christian.

The next step:

“Met in homes for the Lord’s Supper, and shared their meals with great joy and generosity.”

Meeting in homes for the Lord’s Supper. This is communion. The taking of the Body and the Blood through the wine and the unleavened bread. This is Meeting to the Amish. This is going to church.

Praying at the Temple was an act of showing their faith in Jesus Christ to the world. While meeting in homes was the true worship of their Savior. This is witnessed by the taking of communion. It was also not done in public view. This is one aspect of why I no longer support the need for buildings called “churches.”

Matthew 6:5 – 8 – “When you pray, don’t be like the hypocrites who love to pray publicly on street corners and in the synagogues where everyone can see them. I tell you the truth, that is all the reward they will ever get. 6 But when you pray, go away by yourself, shut the door behind you, and pray to your Father in private. Then your Father, who sees everything, will reward you. 7 “When you pray, don’t babble on and on as the Gentiles do. They think their prayers are answered merely by repeating their words again and again. 8 Don’t be like them, for your Father knows exactly what you need even before you ask him!

Once done with Meeting, they share their evening meal with each other in “great joy and generosity.” The generosity was in the form of a pot-luck dinner. Sharing all they had within the Christian community to each other and to those in need as well.

This is something that has become a thing only done for special events. Yet they did it daily. For the community lived close to each other. So, they could help each other in their faith and understanding of God through their Savior Jesus Christ.

As a result of this lifestyle and all living in this manner. God blessed them with what could be called a great revival, which many in today’s Christian community now seek after and believe will happen.

However, since we are in the days of the lukewarm Christian. I do not see this revival occurring until it is too late.

What do I mean it will be too late? For that we must return to the book of Revelation:

Revelation 7:9-10 – After this I saw a vast crowd, too great to count, from every nation and tribe and people and language, standing in front of the throne and before the Lamb. They were clothed in white robes and held palm branches in their hands. 10 And they were shouting with a great roar, “Salvation comes from our God who sits on the throne and from the Lamb!”

What does these verses have to do with a great revival? Everything.

Revelation 7:13-17 – Then one of the twenty-four elders asked me, “Who are these who are clothed in white? Where did they come from?” 14 And I said to him, “Sir, you are the one who knows.” Then he said to me, “These are the ones who died in the great tribulation. They have washed their robes in the blood of the Lamb and made them white. 15 “That is why they stand in front of God’s throne and serve him day and night in his Temple. And he who sits on the throne will give them shelter. 16 They will never again be hungry or thirsty; they will never be scorched by the heat of the sun. 17 For the Lamb on the throne will be their Shepherd. He will lead them to springs of life-giving water. And God will wipe every tear from their eyes.”

They will be the true revival, but at the cost of their own lives. For they had missed out upon the promised rapture and were not watchful and ready for the soon return of Jesus Christ our Savior. Who promises to return like a thief in the night for those that are not watchful.

1 Thessalonians 5:2 – For you know quite well that the day of the Lord’s return will come unexpectedly, like a thief in the night.

Revelation 16:15 – “Look, I will come as unexpectedly as a thief! Blessed are all who are watching for me, who keep their clothing ready so they will not have to walk around naked and ashamed.”

Matthew 24:36-51 – “However, no one knows the day or hour when these things will happen, not even the angels in heaven or the Son himself. Only the Father knows. 37 “When the Son of Man returns, it will be like it was in Noah’s day. 38 In those days before the flood, the people were enjoying banquets and parties and weddings right up to the time Noah entered his boat. 39 People didn’t realize what was going to happen until the flood came and swept them all away. That is the way it will be when the Son of Man comes. 40 “Two men will be working together in the field; one will be taken, the other left. 41 Two women will be grinding flour at the mill; one will be taken, the other left. 42 “So you, too, must keep watch! For you don’t know what day your Lord is coming. 43 Understand this: If a homeowner knew exactly when a burglar was coming, he would keep watch and not permit his house to be broken into. 44 You also must be ready all the time, for the Son of Man will come when least expected. 45 “A faithful, sensible servant is one to whom the master can give the responsibility of managing his other household servants and feeding them. 46 If the master returns and finds that the servant has done a good job, there will be a reward. 47 I tell you the truth, the master will put that servant in charge of all he owns. 48 But what if the servant is evil and thinks, ‘My master won’t be back for a while,’ 49 and he begins beating the other servants, partying, and getting drunk? 50 The master will return unannounced and unexpected, 51 and he will cut the servant to pieces and assign him a place with the hypocrites. In that place there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.

“But what if the servant is evil and thinks, ‘My master won’t be back for a while,’ and he begins beating the other servants, partying, and getting drunk? The master will return unannounced and unexpected, and he will cut the servant to pieces and assign him a place with the hypocrites. In that place there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.”

When you live the life of the lukewarm Christian you are “beating the other servants, partying, and getting drunk.”

So, I say again as is stated in the book of Acts:

“They sold their property and possessions and shared the money with those in need.”

For by doing so you fulfill Matthew 6:19-24.

God Bless

Blog for Podcast #73 (The laws within the Bible)

bible, Bible study, Christian, Christian Life, General, Guide, Life, Relationship, , , , , , Leave a comment

Intro

This is Dreamwalker1960. As a reminder you can read the transcripts of all my podcasts at dreamwalker1960.com. You can use most podcast platforms if you wish to listen. All you need do is do a search for Dreamwalker1960.

Discussion

Matthew 5:17-20 – “Don’t misunderstand why I have come. I did not come to abolish the law of Moses or the writings of the prophets. No, I came to accomplish their purpose. 18 I tell you the truth, until heaven and earth disappear, not even the smallest detail of God’s law will disappear until its purpose is achieved. 19 So if you ignore the least commandment and teach others to do the same, you will be called the least in the Kingdom of Heaven. But anyone who obeys God’s laws and teaches them will be called great in the Kingdom of Heaven. 20 “But I warn you—unless your righteousness is better than the righteousness of the teachers of religious law and the Pharisees, you will never enter the Kingdom of Heaven!

These are the words of Jesus Christ about the laws of Moses. He also said this:

Matthew 22:36-40 – “Teacher, which is the most important commandment in the law of Moses?” 37 Jesus replied, “‘You must love the LORD your God with all your heart, all your soul, and all your mind.’ 38 This is the first and greatest commandment. 39 A second is equally important: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ 40 The entire law and all the demands of the prophets are based on these two commandments.”

By living these two greatest commandments we fulfill the laws of Moses. Does this mean we should ignore them? Millions believe this due to what is said in Galatians:

Galatians 2:15-21 – “You and I are Jews by birth, not ‘sinners’ like the Gentiles. 16 Yet we know that a person is made right with God by faith in Jesus Christ, not by obeying the law. And we have believed in Christ Jesus, so that we might be made right with God because of our faith in Christ, not because we have obeyed the law. For no one will ever be made right with God by obeying the law.” 17 But suppose we seek to be made right with God through faith in Christ and then we are found guilty because we have abandoned the law. Would that mean Christ has led us into sin? Absolutely not! 18 Rather, I am a sinner if I rebuild the old system of law I already tore down. 19 For when I tried to keep the law, it condemned me. So I died to the law—I stopped trying to meet all its requirements—so that I might live for God. 20 My old self has been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me. So I live in this earthly body by trusting in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me. 21 I do not treat the grace of God as meaningless. For if keeping the law could make us right with God, then there was no need for Christ to die.

How does this section begin though:

“You and I are Jews by birth, not ‘sinners’ like the Gentiles.”

Here is the key dividing line that must be kept in mind when reading these verses. Being born Jewish, they were subject to the law of Moses. Yet, their acceptance that Christ is their Savior these laws are no longer a factor.

However, to fulfill Christ’s mission we must remember these words:

“I tell you the truth, until heaven and earth disappear, not even the smallest detail of God’s law will disappear until its purpose is achieved.”

So, we must at least adhere to following those laws of Moses to fulfill treating others as we would treat ourselves. When you fully reject the laws of Moses you are in turn fully rejecting Christ who made it clear He came to fulfill these laws, and that they still need to be followed per His own teachings.

When you fully take Christ’s teachings into consideration. This is evident that Christ still taught these laws in everything He instilled through His instructions.

Then why do people insist that they are right and that the Christ is wrong?

Yes, you got what I said correct. They insist that the laws must be fully and completely abandoned. So, I will go back once again to the words of Jesus Christ Himself:

Matthew 5:17-20 – Do not think that I have come to do away with or undo the Law or the Prophets; I have come not to do away with or undo but to complete and fulfill them. 18 For truly I tell you, until the sky and earth pass away and perish, not one smallest letter nor one little hook [identifying certain Hebrew letters] will pass from the Law until all things [it foreshadows] are accomplished. 19 Whoever then breaks or does away with or relaxes one of the least [important] of these commandments and teaches men so shall be called least [important] in the kingdom of heaven, but he who practices them and teaches others to do so shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven. 20 For I tell you, unless your righteousness (your uprightness and your right standing with God) is more than that of the scribes and Pharisees, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. (Amplified Classic)

Let us look at the KJV now of verse 17:

Matthew 5:17 – Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfil.

Destroy – G2647 – kataluó – (a) trans: I break up, overthrow, destroy, both lit. and met., (b) I unyoke, unharness a carriage horse or pack animal; hence: I put up, lodge, find a lodging.

Fulfil – G4137 – pléroó – I fill, fulfill, complete; to make replete, to furnish, satisfy, execute, verify, end.

  1. Replete – fully or abundantly provided or filled

Now look at verse 19:

Matthew 5:19 –  Whosoever therefore shall break one of these least commandments, and shall teach men so, he shall be called the least in the kingdom of heaven: but whosoever shall do and teach them, the same shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven.

Christ makes it clear that we are to continue to follow the laws of Moses, but as is shown in Matthew 22 we complete this task by treating others as we would treat ourselves. When not diminishing other and treating them as our equals we treat them as we wish to be treated.

When doing this there is no cheating others. There is no enslaving others. There is no killing others. There is no evil. Why? Because we are treating others as we seek to treat ourselves.

Now there will be those that say I am preaching legalism.

Then they have not been paying attention. This is not me saying these things. This is the words of Jesus Christ Himself.

If the Son of God says that we are to follow the laws. Then we are to follow the laws. If we are to follow the laws of man but not God that makes the entire Bible void and useless. This is how atheist see the Bible. This is how those that totally deny God see these teachings.

So, you are saying you side with the atheist and those that deny God?

Ponder upon that for a moment.

Does this not fulfill these verses that describes the last church described in the book of Revelation?

Revelation 3:15-16 – “I know all the things you do, that you are neither hot nor cold. I wish that you were one or the other! 16 But since you are like lukewarm water, neither hot nor cold, I will spit you out of my mouth!

Yes, it does.

Why because most have abandoned that which will cause them to do good works for God. (James 2:14-26) Which will cause them to bear fruit for God.

John 15:1-10 – “I am the true grapevine, and my Father is the gardener. 2 He cuts off every branch of mine that doesn’t produce fruit, and he prunes the branches that do bear fruit so they will produce even more. 3 You have already been pruned and purified by the message I have given you. 4 Remain in me, and I will remain in you. For a branch cannot produce fruit if it is severed from the vine, and you cannot be fruitful unless you remain in me. 5 “Yes, I am the vine; you are the branches. Those who remain in me, and I in them, will produce much fruit. For apart from me you can do nothing. 6 Anyone who does not remain in me is thrown away like a useless branch and withers. Such branches are gathered into a pile to be burned. 7 But if you remain in me and my words remain in you, you may ask for anything you want, and it will be granted! 8 When you produce much fruit, you are my true disciples. This brings great glory to my Father. 9 “I have loved you even as the Father has loved me. Remain in my love. 10 When you obey my commandments, you remain in my love, just as I obey my Father’s commandments and remain in his love.

“When you obey my commandments, you remain in my love, just as I obey my Father’s commandments and remain in his love.”

Obey the commandments. That is not legalism. That is listening and following Jesus Christ in faith and works.

And what is the result if we do not keep Christ within us?

John 15:6 – If a man abide not in me, he is cast forth as a branch, and is withered; and men gather them, and cast them into the fire, and they are burned. (KJV)

I turn back to one of my early podcasts and I give you the breakdown of this verse:

He is cast – G906 – ballo – to throw [Strong’s]

“To throw” or “to cast,” “to cast off fruit. ‘Often in the NT “ballo” is used in different ways in connection with the thought of judgement, partly as a committal to the element which exercises it. Partly of expulsion from the community of salvation, when used with “exo.” [TDNT]

Forth – G1854 – exo – out [Strong’s]

Is withered – G3583 – xeraino – to desiccate, to shrivel [Strong’s]

Men gather – G4863 – synago – sunago – to lead together, collect or convene, to entertain [Strong’s]

Them into – G1519 -eis – to or into [Strong’s]

The fire – G4442 – pyr – pur – fire [Strong’s]

A judgement [TDNT]

They are burned – G2545 – kaio – to set on fire, consume [Strong’s]

With the TDNT the emphasis of this word is keyed to self-burning. Voluntarily giving oneself over to be burned.

The main takeaways from the translation of this verse is if you accept Christ as your Savior and you choose not to follow his teaching and live a truly Christian life. You instead choose to live in the world of man which entertains you. You are broken off from the Divine Vine that is Christ and you are cast willingly into the fires of judgement. Which agrees with Revelation 3:15-16.

As you think and ponder these words. I will leave you to think where you stand with God.

God Bless

SPECIAL ADDENDIM

In a comment made on the Facebook page for my podcasts someone made a haughty reply to this Bible study. (To understand why I use the word “haughty” please read “Blog for Podcast #65 (The Haughty)

In this comment the author implied that this law should still be followed:

Exodus 21:20-21 – “If a man beats his male or female slave with a club and the slave dies as a result, the owner must be punished. 21 But if the slave recovers within a day or two, then the owner shall not be punished, since the slave is his property.

My reply to this person was this:

Just for those that assume they know better than God through Jesus Christ.

Any of the old laws that don’t stand up to:

Matthew 22:37-40 – Jesus replied, “‘You must love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, and all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment. A second is equally important: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ The entire law and all the demands of the prophets are based on these two commandments.”

In other words: Do unto others as you would have done unto you.

Were voided upon the cross.

2 examples:

People do not enslave themselves.

People usually do not beat themselves.

Those that use this as an excuse not to follow the laws within the Bible. Need to rethink how they live their lives.

These two greatest commandments, which the moment Christ spoke them, I feel, should have changed the 10 Commandments into 12 Commandments. Becaming the litmus test for all the laws within the Bible.

As shown in my two examples when comparing to the law listed in Exodus. Anyone who loves their fellow humans as they love themselves would not enslave themselves or beat themselves. because we are placing the others before ourselves.

Philippians 2:1-4 – Is there any encouragement from belonging to Christ? Any comfort from his love? Any fellowship together in the Spirit? Are your hearts tender and compassionate? 2 Then make me truly happy by agreeing wholeheartedly with each other, loving one another, and working together with one mind and purpose. 3 Don’t be selfish; don’t try to impress others. Be humble, thinking of others as better than yourselves. 4 Don’t look out only for your own interests, but take an interest in others, too.

God Bless

Blog for Podcast #72 (Do not seek after the things within the world)

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Intro

This is Dreamwalker1960. As a reminder you can read the transcripts of all my podcasts at dreamwalker1960.com. You can use most podcast platforms if you wish to listen. All you need do is do a search for Dreamwalker1960.

Discussion

1 John 2:15-17 – Do not love this world nor the things it offers you, for when you love the world, you do not have the love of the Father in you. 16 For the world offers only a craving for physical pleasure, a craving for everything we see, and pride in our achievements and possessions. These are not from the Father, but are from this world. 17 And this world is fading away, along with everything that people crave. But anyone who does what pleases God will live forever.

I have referred to these verses more than once, and I have been led to dig into these verses to cause people to think and analyze how they are living their lives at this very moment. For when you think upon these teaches you can see they go deeply into how many are acting and responding to not only within their own homes, but due to external factors as well.

Let us start this exploration with the amplified classic version of the Bible:

15 Do not love or cherish the world or the things that are in the world. If anyone loves the world, love for the Father is not in him.

16 For all that is in the world–the lust of the flesh [craving for sensual gratification] and the lust of the eyes [greedy longings of the mind] and the pride of life [assurance in one’s own resources or in the stability of earthly things]–these do not come from the Father but are from the world [itself].

17 And the world passes away and disappears, and with it the forbidden cravings (the passionate desires, the lust) of it; but he who does the will of God and carries out His purposes in his life abides (remains) forever.

Let us now go verse by verse in the KJV and break it down into the Greek where needed.

1 John 2:15 – Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him.

World – G2889 – Kosmos – Bible Hub it is shown in this way: the world, universe; worldly affairs; the inhabitants of the world; adornment.

Worldly affairs, and those that populate it. These are the things that distract us from God. However, people do not seem to realize this. Humans cause sin. Humans cause crime.

Matthew 15:18-20 – But the words you speak come from the heart—that’s what defiles you. 19 For from the heart come evil thoughts, murder, adultery, all sexual immorality, theft, lying, and slander. 20 These are what defile you. Eating with unwashed hands will never defile you.”

All that affects the world about us is due to people living in sin. That is why we are being told to not remain in the world we have left behind.

Ephesians 5:1-17 – Imitate God, therefore, in everything you do, because you are his dear children. 2 Live a life filled with love, following the example of Christ. He loved us and offered himself as a sacrifice for us, a pleasing aroma to God. 3 Let there be no sexual immorality, impurity, or greed among you. Such sins have no place among God’s people. 4 Obscene stories, foolish talk, and coarse jokes—these are not for you. Instead, let there be thankfulness to God. 5 You can be sure that no immoral, impure, or greedy person will inherit the Kingdom of Christ and of God. For a greedy person is an idolater, worshiping the things of this world. 6 Don’t be fooled by those who try to excuse these sins, for the anger of God will fall on all who disobey him. 7 Don’t participate in the things these people do. 8 For once you were full of darkness, but now you have light from the Lord. So live as people of light! 9 For this light within you produces only what is good and right and true. 10 Carefully determine what pleases the Lord. 11 Take no part in the worthless deeds of evil and darkness; instead, expose them. 12 It is shameful even to talk about the things that ungodly people do in secret. 13 But their evil intentions will be exposed when the light shines on them, 14 for the light makes everything visible. This is why it is said, “Awake, O sleeper, rise up from the dead, and Christ will give you light.” 15 So be careful how you live. Don’t live like fools, but like those who are wise. 16 Make the most of every opportunity in these evil days. 17 Don’t act thoughtlessly, but understand what the Lord wants you to do.

“Let there be no sexual immorality, impurity, or greed among you. Such sins have no place among God’s people. Obscene stories, foolish talk, and coarse jokes—these are not for you. Instead, let there be thankfulness to God. You can be sure that no immoral, impure, or greedy person will inherit the Kingdom of Christ and of God. For a greedy person is an idolater, worshiping the things of this world. Don’t be fooled by those who try to excuse these sins, for the anger of God will fall on all who disobey him.”

I wish to do a bit of sidestep here and look at verse 5 of chapter 5 of Ephesians:

Ephesians 5:5 – For this ye know, that no whoremonger, nor unclean person, nor covetous man, who is an idolater, hath any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God.

Covetous man – G4123 – pleonexia – holding (desiring) more, that is, eager for gain; covetousness, avarice.

Okay, now to get back to 1 John.

Love – G25 and G26 –

G25- agapaó – to love (in a social or moral sense); wish well to, take pleasure in, long for; denotes the love of reason, esteem.

G26 – agape – affection or benevolence; good will, esteem

The first “love” is for the world and the things within it. The second “love” mentioned here is for how our love should be towards God through His Son Jesus Christ. As you can see “agape” love is meant to be all encompassing. This is seen in the greatest commandments given to us by Christ Himself:

Matthew 22:36-40 – “Teacher, which is the most important commandment in the law of Moses?”  Jesus replied, “‘You must love the LORD your God with all your heart, all your soul, and all your mind.’ 38 This is the first and greatest commandment. 39 A second is equally important: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ 40 The entire law and all the demands of the prophets are based on these two commandments.”

This shows that our focus must be upon God and what His Son told us within the Bible on how we are to live our lives.

So let us now move on to verse 16:

1 John 2:16 – For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world.

Flesh – G4561 – sarx – flesh, body, human nature, materiality; kindred; the body as opposed the to soul (spirit), or as the symbol of what is external.

Eyes – G3788 – ophthalmos – the eye; the mind’s eye; figuratively envy (from the jealous side glance)

Pride – G212 – alazoneia – boasting, show, arrogant display, ostentation; self-confidence

Life – G979 – bios – manner of life; livelihood; the present state of existence.

The implication is made very clear here. Whenever someone seeks after anything that gives them pleasure here in this temporal realm, we now live within. They do not seek after pleasing God, but themselves as so are not trying to be one with God, but themselves. For their true god is themselves.

Therefore, if someone seeks after wealth, a fancy car or home. Fancy clothing, tattoos of any sort. They are seeking to appease their own wants and desires. Christ makes it clear in Matthew 6 what it is He wishes us to seek after:

Matthew 6:19-24 – “Don’t store up treasures here on earth, where moths eat them and rust destroys them, and where thieves break in and steal. 20 Store your treasures in heaven, where moths and rust cannot destroy, and thieves do not break in and steal. 21 Wherever your treasure is, there the desires of your heart will also be. 22 “Your eye is like a lamp that provides light for your body. When your eye is healthy, your whole body is filled with light. 23 But when your eye is unhealthy, your whole body is filled with darkness. And if the light you think you have is actually darkness, how deep that darkness is! 24 “No one can serve two masters. For you will hate one and love the other; you will be devoted to one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and be enslaved to money.

We are also told that if God does curses us with money, we are not to horrid it but to give most of it away:

2 Corinthians 9:6-15 – Remember this—a farmer who plants only a few seeds will get a small crop. But the one who plants generously will get a generous crop. 7 You must each decide in your heart how much to give. And don’t give reluctantly or in response to pressure. “For God loves a person who gives cheerfully.” 8 And God will generously provide all you need. Then you will always have everything you need and plenty left over to share with others. 9 As the Scriptures say, “They share freely and give generously to the poor. Their good deeds will be remembered forever.” 10 For God is the one who provides seed for the farmer and then bread to eat. In the same way, he will provide and increase your resources and then produce a great harvest of generosity in you. 11 Yes, you will be enriched in every way so that you can always be generous. And when we take your gifts to those who need them, they will thank God. 12 So two good things will result from this ministry of giving—the needs of the believers in Jerusalem will be met, and they will joyfully express their thanks to God. 13 As a result of your ministry, they will give glory to God. For your generosity to them and to all believers will prove that you are obedient to the Good News of Christ. 14 And they will pray for you with deep affection because of the overflowing grace God has given to you. 15 Thank God for this gift too wonderful for words!

Why seek to have worldly status and praise when calling yourself “Christian?” This is not what we are told to do many times within the Bible. For this mere hundred years we live upon this earth is not our true life. This is not our legacy. Giving all glory and praise to God through His Son Jesus Christ is our true legacy.

It is serving God by giving away what we do not need to live day to day. It is helping those in need. That is our legacy. For this will cause a great treasure to be gathering in the presence of God Himself. Who will bless us with not one hundred years of life, but billions upon billions of years of life. Living as we do now. Seeing as we see now.

Yet millions who profess to being “Christian” would rather have their earthly treasures and desire met. Not caring for the true future, but instead trying to promote their own legacy which as verse 17 says:

Will “fading away, along with everything that people crave.”

God Bless