Short parable, but meaningful! The truly saved WILL bring forth fruit, just by the true indwelling of the Spirit! Two ways to look at the last verse...one, as the second coming occuring at the fulfillment of the kingdom, and two, as our branches getting "pruned" when full to that we can produce more fruit. Chrys _________________ Teach me thy way, O Lord; I will walk in thy truth.


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WE AS CHRISTIAN'S NEED TO WELCOME SINNER'S!! OUR TESTIMONY COULD EITHER PLANT THE SEED FOR THEM OR BRING THEM INTO GOD'S PRESENCE AND THE KINGDOM OF HEAVEN.
IT IS HARD SOMETIMES AS A CHRISTIAN TO IDENITIFY WITH SINNERS BECAUSE WE HAVE JESUS LIVING WITHIN US TEACHING US THE RIGHT WAYS. JUST REMEMBER THAT EVEN AS A CHRISTIAN YOU ARE STILL A SINNER BUT WITH BENEFIT & ETERNAL LIFE.
APPLICATION TO MY LIFE:
IDENITIFY THAT DESPITE A SINNER'S TROUBLES & ATTITUDE THEY TO ARE JUST AS ELIGIBLE FOR HEAVEN AS I WAS. IT WASN'T UNTIL JESUS CAME TO LIVE IN ME DID I CHANGE MY WAYS.
GO AFTER SINNER'S TEACH THEM, GUIDE THEM, & LOVE THEM. SHOW THEM JESUS IN YOU.
THANK YOU FOR READING! I HELP IT CAN BE A HELP AND A BLESSING AS IT HAS BEEN TO ME.
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I think this story gives us the clearest explanation in the bible of what happens to a person after they die
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Please, people! Keep the Gospel simple.

We are not exactly sure what is meant botanically by the mustard which somehow grows into a tree-sized plant. If you study botany, you find that the mustards are the Family Brassicaceae (or Cruciferae, cross-bearers!), a very large family of plants, including many of our common vegtables, but hardly any tree-size species. We should also remember that names in the Bible are frequently hard to match with modern usages. All this is fun to work on, but quite inconsequential for the meaning of the message.

It is very clear from a plain reading that Jesus is using the mustard seed as an illustration of something very small which grows into something sizeable and impressive, which can in turn support other life. The birds just happen to nest in trees, and one might wonder if they also have a significance as a sign of spirit, but once again that is just speculation. Certainly there is no connection here with Satan or evil in either mustard seeds or birds. All this talk about the parable's predicting something about the bad behavior of the church is also totally ridiculous.

I will repeat, the message is simple: it is that something small, and easy to overlook, will grow and flourish. That is the Kingdom.

Why did Jesus bother to say this? Think simple! It is because he was correcting a misconception that the Kingdom would come with dramatic, big events; or from high places. Many people today somehow expect that such things must come with claps of thunder and earthquakes. That is NOT the picture that Jesus is giving in his teaching in this parable; and this parable accords very well with other things he says.

The more I think of these matters, the more my admiration grows for the Gospel: not that I am to sit in judgment, but in that my soul responds as before something of beauty. And here part of the beauty inheres in simplicity and clarity.

My fellow Christians, there are many things we will not understand, and which we yet must reverence; but let us not also miss the chance to see what Jesus made very clear for us.
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Hi

My name is Brooke Wren and I was wondering if you
Could send me out some information about Tropical or
Exotic Fruits plus some information about that particular
Fruit. If you could that would be Fantastic but if you can not
Please e-mail me and tell me.


Thank You,

For listening

Brooke Wren

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Could you please send me your picture of a mustard tree? I need to use it at my church for our current topic of Bible study. Thank you.
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Actually the son that stayed at home was also wayward...not in location...but in relationship to his Father! His relationship was built on duty and perfection and not on love!!!
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Would you please send me a copy of that picture? If it's good, I'd like to use it for my sermon on Sunday.

Mike
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Thank you!

My five year old daughter just asked me about that and I'm showing her how to use the web and spotted YOU on this topic and clicked on YOUR
reply.

Sure glad I did! Yus hav eit exactly RIGHT!

It was also in wording that my daughter can understand.

THANK YOU!


Very Best Regards and May God continue to Bless YOU!


Nancy
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Does anybody know the history of people responsible for the content of the Prodigal Son?
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First thing to note is that there are three parables given.

Why are they given? The occasion for Jesus to give them is back in chapter 15:1-3. The phrarisees and scribes are grumbling because sinners come to Jesus.

He then tells three stories (keep in mind these are parables - the details are not important but the main point Jesus makes).

Note these similarities -

1) Lost sheep --something is lost (sheep), something is found, the finder rejoices, others rejoice with the finder.

2) Lost coin -- something is lost (coin), it is found, the finder rejoices, everyone rejoices with the finder.

3) Prodigal -- something is lost (son), he is found (comes to the father), everyone rejoices (they have a party). But then we get to a different element than the first two stories, the older brother grumbles because the father receives the sinful younger brother. Does that sound like anyone else? It is exactly like the attitude of the pharisees and scribes in verses 1-3 (the reason Jesus tells these parables).

The meaning of these three parables is plain. The proper attitude should be joy when someone comes to Christ.

It is easy to get bogged down by trying to figure the meaning of each of the things in the story of the prodigal. I don't believe Christ ever intended us to try to place a meaning on every element of this story. Just like today when a preacher gives an illustration, every detail of it is not important - just the main point. I fully believe in the inerrancy of scripture - but I still think that these three parables have a simple meaning.

Todd
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The Trinity has always been a permanent part of God's kingdom (God is All) but hidden from view to the Church because of their blindness, and is still hidden from their view in a big degree. The true Trinity is not a human invention. The Church may THINK they know what the Trinity is, but your view of it is a better view than theirs. I doubt if the Church would acknowledge your view. It is interesting to note that just about that time, (300 A.D.) the raising of the dead ceased. Many think that when the Church government got into religion with all their rules, dogma, symbols, rites and rituals that that was the reason that raising of the dead stopped. "Why should it be thought a thing incredible with you, that God should raise the dead? " Acts 26:8 Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that believeth on me, the works that I do shall he do also; and greater works than these shall he do; because I go unto my Father. John 14:12. Spirituality was lost to ritualism, consequently healing power lost too. The true Trinity is most certainly part of the Leaven, and the other way around also. Your idea of the Trinity is a better one than that of the Church. Why do we feel that it is incredible that Christians were able to raise the dead 300 years after the crucifixion of Jesus? We need to rethink our methods to be able to "go and do likewise."
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In reading and rereading this parable I am moved by the Holy Spirit to realize this is very possibly a paradigm relative to the church.

We all seem to recognize who the prodigal son is. He is us. Who among us has not strayed or participated in sin? Our Father not only welcomes us back, He runs to us and falls upon our neck in a compassionate all-accepting, all-forgiving love.

What moves me most personally however, is how I see the older son in so many of us faithful churchgoers/ministers. Too many of us fail to realize the Father when He tells us, "All that I have is yours." What a powerful, dynamic statement our Father makes to us! We find ourselves burdened down in the fields of our churches, working in our own power, and don't see that our Father gives us all that we could ever want for victorious, overcoming life in Him.

Please read Matt 28:18-20 where we are told all authority is given to Jesus and He gives that authority to us! Then, in John 14:1014, we see that the power/authority/rights/abilities He has given us are all to glorify the Father. As joint heirs with Christ, we can hear the Father tell us, "All that I have is yours."

In Matt 6:9-13 we have the clencher! Jesus prays that God's kingdom and will be done on Earth as it is in Heaven. Did the Father refuse this request? Are we not on the Earth, therefor participants in "all that I have is yours." Perhaps we just need to recognize and apply our sonship privileges in God's Kingdom here on Earth. Be blessed.
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Luke 16: 19-31
This was a story of real people. Jesus gave a real name of a real person, "Lazarus" This is indeed a truthful account of something that happend. Names were very important, and those he was speaking to (Luke 16: 14) The Pharisees, who loved money, heard all this and were sneering at Jesus in an earler dicourse that day. So Jesus continued addressing those who loved "money" and sneered at Him, by giving the truth, telling them about Lazarus and the rich man. Do you think this rich man was a Pharisee? A good guess would be yes, as Abraham calles him "son" in v. 25. This would be a man that knew the laws of Moses.
But the Word choses not to mention "who" the rich man really is, ALL people who love money luxuries **OVER** the giving of mercy and love to fellow mankind. Do not be so bold to ignore the truth behind Christ's message here to the Pharisees as not an actuall event. I trust in Jesus that he is telling a truthful event.

This rich man was dressed in "fine purple linen" and "lived in luxury every day." Lazarus, "a begger covered in sores" was "laid" down by people at the rich mans gate to hopefully receive some comfort from the wealthy man therein. Lazarus "longed" to just "eat the scraps" that fell from the rich mans table. He was not given such luxury, you do not "long" for something you have received. The dogs that roamed came and licked Lazarus's sores. Would the dogs be able to lick Lazarus's sores if he was taken up by the rich man and given the care he so desperatly needed? Christ was telling the Pharisees that even the dogs showed more compassion to Lazarus then this man of great worldly wealth.

Such a sight was this at the front of a rich mans gate, especially to those who "laid" him down there.... To lay a man down in such a way and not
go hide him off in some unclean or lepper colony; Why do you think he would of been given such care? Was Lazarus some one that was hated, or someone that was loved? And if he be loved, who do you think would of loved him? Wealthy people or people that did not have the means themselves to care for Lazarus? There is much information given in
V's 19-21. Knowing Christ and the compassion he has for the poor,
you can see what he was saying here. Woe to them in another speech.
Luke 11: 37-54 Talking to these same rich men, the "Pharisees."

Lazarus was loved by the poor and the meek, he was laid down in front
of a rich mans gate, left there for what reason? They hoped that he would be cared for. But he did not receive a fallen morstle from the rich mans table, the dogs were left to tend to his sores.

In this view, who would God's mercy fall favor on in salvation?

There Lazarus died at the gate, and the Angels collected him to Abrahams side. The rich man died and was buried in hell. A hell where he was
in torment. A tormented place were he could talk to Abraham, one that
he knew. Was this a Gentile apart from the law? The rich man knew who Abraham was.... he called to him "Father Abraham" v, 24 again, who do
you think this rich man was?

This place that is discribed is real. v. 22-25
Abrahams side is the place were all those went that were good and righteous in Gods sight, kept the law, those that listened to the Prophets and Moses and waited for the coming Messiah. There is that place called Abrahams Bosom. There is that place that Christ decended to collect those with Abraham that died before the arrival of the "new covenant" with Christ Jesus. Jesus decended into the earth for 3 days, raising from the dead. Luke 24: 45 He did not emediatly raise to God the Father when his fleshly body ceased to work. For three days, he decended to the dead according to the scriptures. This is the place discribed by Jesus and given in the name and discription through the Pharisees clan; Abraham.

This information of Lazarus and the rich man and where they were after
their physical death occured is a real place. Christ fullfilled the forgiveness of sins of the Old Testiment by collecting those who repented
by the laws given Moses. Those rightious men and women were kept
with Abraham awaiting for the promise of the given Messiah to be fullfilled. Those on the other side of this place are seperated from God
in eternal death. Those men and women now are in heaven, Lazarus is in heaven. The rich man remaines in hell while Christs chruch is being fullfiled now on earth.


mi_heritage

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Consider the usage of the word "Earth" elsewhere in Jesus' parables. The word earth is always used in reference to a man's heart. We sew seeds (the Word) in the earth (men's hearts).

Likewise, earth is used in this parable. He who was only given one talent (given one gift) hid it in his heart, afraid to use it for God's gain, and he lost it.

He who was given many gifts used them all, and was given more, because he has shown faith in what he all ready had, and would surely do the same if he had more. God is using his servants wisely.
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I have recently womdered more about the 2nd and 3rd 'plants'. Many times I see people who have a sincere faith but have allowed the cares and wories to push them down. It is the same with those who face persecution. How wonderful that we have a Father of Mercy who sees the heart of the weariest and most discouraged of His children, and will call them home.

But at the same time, I wonder at the 4th 'plant'. Many feel secure that this about them...but where is their 30 and 60 and 100-fold harvest. Those who do not actively share their faith and live the life of Christ before ALL must take note.

God Bless.
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One Talent Man buried it in the "earth," was cast out into utter darkness. For when the Light-Word-Truth came, the darkness comprehended it not (The John 1:5). Because the darkness believed that salvation was for the Jewsish church. For those who believe Jesus spake not for without a parable, it's reasonable to believe that the pre-Incarnate Jesus taught Moses how to write Gensis in parable, metaphor, and allegory. For the apostle Paul in Galatians 4:24 confirms the 2 covenants, the first with the bondwoman, Hagar, as well as the freewoman, were allegory. Likewise Moses addressed his people as following, "Give ear O' heavens, and I will speak; And hear, O' earth, the words of my mouth." Deuteronomy 32:1. Therefore the priesthood equated with the emotionally, spiritual matured were cast out into utter darkness because they failed to reflect the Light-Word-Truth to their own church. They buried their very reason to be in utter darkness. A serious warning to Christendom. Deone Hanson
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Please send me via e-mail or inform me as to where I can obtain a picture of a mustard tree. Thank you!
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hi i am also looking for a picture of the mustard seed tree, i was wondering if you ever found one. If so would you please send it to me or tell me where you found it. If not would you still please reply. Thank You and God Bless You!!
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The intent of the parable is to contrast the seemingly insignificant life and ministry of Jesus Christ, the disciples, and the kingdom of God in its present order of the "now and not yet". It speaks to the fact of the kingdom of God in the hearts of believers; that will one day be manifested as great. This is a parable of encouragement to continue and live in the hope of the Glory of God to come. The world looks at the good message and news of the Kingdom, and at the messengers, as un-important in comparison to academic degrees, world philosopies, material riches, politcal power, and whatever else secular man values.
It is a comment related to the prior parable in Mark about the man who sowed seeds and did not know how they grew, addressing the miraculous work on God. The branches and birds reflect the truth of God's government and rule reaching the nations of the world. Birds here refer to the habitation of peoples, as it is referred to in the book of Daniel. Some point out the birds as a negative aspect taking the symblolsim from the book of revelations. But seen in its context the parable refers to God's kingdom and blessing to all peoples who trust in Jesus.
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The 5 wise virgins were getting married to the bridgroom.


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The Mustard Parable was a fulfilled Prophecy from Ezekiel 17!
Quote:
Ezekiel 17
22. Thus saith the Lord God; I will also take of the highest branch of the high cedar, and will set it; I will crop off from the top of his young twigs a tender one, and will plant it upon an high mountain and eminent:
23. In the mountain of the height of Israel will I plant it: and it shall bring forth boughs, and bear fruit, and be a goodly cedar: and under it shall dwell all fowl of every wing; in the shadow of the branches thereof shall they dwell.
24. And all the trees of the field shall know that I the Lord have brought down the high tree, have exalted the low tree, have dried up the green tree, and have made the dry tree to flourish: I the Lord have spoken and have done it.












Other info....

Psalms 104
12. By them shall the fowls of the heaven have their habitation, which sing among the branches.

Proverbs 11
28. He that trusteth in his riches shall fall; but the righteous shall flourish as a branch.

Isaiah 4
2. In that day shall the branch of the Lord be beautiful and glorious, and the fruit of the earth shall be excellent and comely for them...

Isaiah 11
1. And there shall come forth a rod out of the stem of Jesse, and a Branch shall grow out of his roots:
2. And the spirit of the Lord shall rest upon him, the spirit of wisdom and understanding, the spirit of counsel and might, the spirit of knowledge and of the fear of the Lord;

Isaiah 60
16. Thou shalt also suck the milk of the Gentiles, and shalt suck the breast of kings: and thou shalt know that I the Lord am thy Saviour and thy Redeemer, the mighty One of Jacob.
17. For brass I will bring gold, and for iron I will bring silver, and for wood brass, and for stones iron: I will also make thy officers peace, and thine exactors righteousness.
18. Violence shall no more be heard in thy land, wasting nor destruction within thy borders; but thou shalt call thy walls Salvation, and thy gates Praise.
19. The sun shall be no more thy light by day; neither for brightness shall the moon give light unto thee: but the Lord shall be unto thee an everlasting light, and thy God thy glory.
20. Thy sun shall no more go down; neither shall thy moon withdraw itself: for the Lord shall be thine everlasting light, and the days of thy mourning shall be ended.
21. Thy people also shall be all righteous: they shall inherit the land for ever, the branch of my planting, the work of my hands, that I may be glorified.


Jeremiah 23
5. Behold, the days come, saith the Lord, that I will raise unto David a righteous Branch, and a King shall reign and prosper, and shall execute judgment and justice in the earth.
6. In his days Judah shall be saved, and Israel shall dwell safely: and this is his name whereby he shall be called, THE LORD OUR RIGHTEOUSNESS.

Jeremiah 33
15. In those days, and at that time, will I cause the Branch of righteousness to grow up unto David; and he shall execute judgment and righteousness in the land.
_________________

The Harvest is soon......
and
If any person comes to Jesus Christ,
and doesn't love Jesus Christ over,
their father,
or their mother,
or their spouse,
or their children,
or their brethren,
or their sisters,
or even their own life,
they are not able to be a followers of Jesus Christ!

The Truth Shall Set You FREE!
http://www.freejesus.net/salvation.php
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reverend father,
i am a 4th year theology seminarian from st.mary's theologate i would like to secure a copy of your sermon on "good shepherd" for my homily guide regarding the same subject....tnx
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They did not quite get paid on commision, but most where not paid as much as they realy needed. This lead to many demanding more money then was needed from the people they collected from.

This is why, later, Jesus tells Publicans to collect only what is due.

It was common at that time that Publicans would have a lawyer like rap, in that they where all looked upon as great sinners, always cheating everyone for every last mite and shekel.
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yes we can be good samaritains in this era! If you kinda a person that has been left to die you would help them weather thye were a stranger or your enemy, it's still a person who diserves to live!
so yes we can be good samaritians!
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Looking to do something for school retreats involving the mustard seed parable.

I would really appreciate a picture of a Mustard Tree.

Thank you in advance for your kindness.
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Janette,
I feel like i know what you are going through. I was saved several years ago, I have also strayed away from God in the past year or so. I question if I lost my salvation and faith. I realized that Once the LORD is in your HEART he is there for GOOD. NO MATTER WHAT. He will alswya be there for you even if he feels distant.
I pray that God would reveal HIMself to you today and that his HOLY SPIRIT will rest upon you in a might way today. Where he is Evil cannot be. The only way evil can enter into us is if we open a door to it. focus on him and his faithfulness to you.


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WOULD APPRICIATE A GOOD CLEAR PHOTO OF THE THE MUSTARD SEED.THANK YOU AND GOD BLESS.
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I am a catholic teacher and would love a copy of the mustard tree as we are looking at how our faith grows from a little seed. I want to use the parrable in our class prayer service.
Thanks and God bless Liz
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I need to find a picture for my Sunday school class of a full grown mustard tree....I always use the teaching on Faith comparing it to a mustard seed...have the seed, but the kids need to see how big it grows.

So far, after a few yrs of teaching I have not found a picture of a FULL GROWN TREE I hope you can help me in this endeavor....
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I'm sorry, it looks like I forgot to address the last question on called and chosen.
Maybe the chosen are the ones who were called to do the greatest work. Relate it to martyrs, or people God has given special talent to to complete great works in short amounts of time.
Such as
Bob has been a Christian for 25 years and obeyed and honored God and witnessed when he could.
Bill was a Christian for 1 year, devoted every moment to publically speaking for Christ in China and was caught and executed.
Both were called, God chose a special assignment for Bill and blessed him with the ability to be able to do it.
Both were called, Bill was chosen.
Both get the same reward.

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I would like a copy of the good shepard sermon

Thank You
sharan Jones
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Every hurting person is your neighbor. Many times our concentration is on the good samaritan but what made him a good samaritan was the victim! What was his character, a hurting person and stripped of everything. Would you help or avoid him? They are every where, you do not need to travel to a third world country.

Christopher Lobo
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Rob

That was really good! I’m all ears.

A good example that would support what you’re saying would be the fact that Jesus said in Mark chapter Four “the earth brings forth fruit of herself”.

The earth is the human heart (our own). Jesus also said “things spoken in darkness will be heard in the light” and scripture supports that it’s your own spirit that’s radiating it outward-like a ball of dough manifesting yeast or becoming leavened (YOU CAN SEE IT!). And yet Jesus said “your HEAVENLY FATHER will reward you openly”.

Jesus taught that the human spirit acts as a candle or a light. I call it the overhead projector that projects things onto the canvas of our lives. But you’ve picked up on the fact that there’s a mystical parallel between the human heart and our heavenly father. Someone might be tempted to conclude that WE are GOD, but no I think the real meaning is that we were designed to be a type of mirror that reflects the glory of God (a chandelier?). God has sent the light of his word into the world and for those who allow it to “dwell in them richly”, that light will hit that inner mirror and be refracted into the world around us. Hence God uses this refracting property of mans heart as his M.O.

So, then the question is, just who is this unjust judge? FYI, I’m not saying that God is the unjust judge. What I was saying is that if this small, worldly insignificant woman can instill such torment into the heart of a human of great worldly stature through the use of this idea (it’s the idea of faith found in the new testament), then HOW MUCH MORE can we get results from one who is NOT proactively resisting us.

Both the man who came for bread at midnight and the widow came boldly DEMANDING that their petition be granted. Notice it had nothing to do with friendship, worldly status, or lack thereof; it had to do with BRAZENESS. That’s the word that comes closest to the real meaning of the word that was translated “importunity”. The real meaning of the word is WITHOUT BASHFULNESS. It’s the same idea found in the parable of the widow and unjust judge.

OK, but how about your point that we’re really in a sense praying to our own spirit and our own spirit is the putrid judge? Frankly I agree with you on that. But the question arises; do we need to go that far into the interpretation of this parable to reach some kind of understanding of it? Well your thinking is good! But I just don’t know if Jesus intended for us to analyze this analogy to that degree. But then that’s what we always say.

All that I can say right now is that I’ll have to look into that. I heard what you said and will take it seriously. But I like the way that you attempted to keep the underlying parallels of the kingdom in tacked when breaking this down.

Right now I think it’s merely an example of holy boldness and the refusal to capitulate upon the promises that we’ve received from God. It would also underscore the fact that prayer is based on covenant rights not wishy washy gravelling or begging as though were dogs under the table. HEY, didn’t Jesus say something similar to a woman who he ended the conversation with GREAT IS YOUR FAITH?

Rob keep up the good work. You’re an inspiration! And I’ll continue to look at it in the light that you’ve laid down.

God bless:)

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Dear Phil,
I have read ur commentary on the topic of 'the fig tree' i only now came across this page and found it ...
could u explain what u mean?

I dont knwo if u remember that what u wrote there but i cant copy and paste...:(

it sounds interesting but i would like to hear a bit more if possible

thank you very much
with God's Blessing

Goshia
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My Aunt is doing a bible study on the mustard seed. She ask me to find her a picture of a mustard seed tree to use in the bible study.
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Does anyone have an opinion on what the sandals represent?
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Dear Friends,
Ecxuse me please, let me attract your attention
my interesting observation about the Holy Spirit in the New Testament, when
Jesus Christ baptized.
There is in the Luke 3:22 we see the next:
"And the Holy Spirit descended in a bodily shape like a dove upon Him" (Luke 3:22).
There is the Holy Scripture said, that the Holy Spirit descended in a
bodily shape like a dove, not in a dove shape. Everywhere in the Holy
Scripture we see only "like a dove", and nowhere "in a dove shape".
(Matthew 3:16, Mark 1:10, John 1:32).
It is possible to descend in any shape like a dove, but there is in a dove
shape is only in a dove shape. And the phrase “like a dove” is meaning,
that it is not a dove. For example, “ like a man” is meaning, that it
is not a man.
Why two thousands years all artists in the episode of baptism of
Jesus Christ are drawing the dove, and there are
in the many theologize works we see the words "in a dove shape"?
Please see the pictures of well-known artist, and you will see the
dove. And there is in all temple you will see the dove.
"And the Holy Spirit descended in a bodily shape like a dove upon Him"
(Luke 3:22), not "in a dove shape".
(Please see the attached file Image_6).
"Therefore I say to you, every sin and blasphemy will be forgiven men,
but the blasphemy against the Spirit will not be forgiven men"
(Matthew 12;31).
Excuse me please my mistakes in English, I am sorry, I don't speak
English.
Thank you.

God bless you,

Vladimir Rumyantsev
St. Petersburg, Russia,
E-mail: bigroad@olvex.ru

Son of God – King of the Old Testament

Many assert, that Lord Jesus Christ is the Son of God, but that He is not the God, completely ignoring that
fact, that under law of Moses the Son of God means only one – “equal to the God” and “the God, as well as His
Father”. Verses of the Holy Scripture where Jews condemn Jesus Christ that He names himself Son of God testify to
it:
“Therefore the Jews sought all the more to kill Him, because He not only broke the Sabbath, but also said that
God was His Father, making Himself equal with God” (John. 5:18);
“The Jews answered Him, saying, “For a good work we do not stone You, but for blasphemy, and because You, being
a Man, make Yourself God” (John. 10:33).
Therefore any person who declares itself, that he is the Son of God, under law Moses makes itself equal to the
God, makes itself by the God, naming the Father of the God, that under law Moses is classified as blasphemy, and
adequately death what of Jews and have declared Pontius Pilate, condemning Jesus Christ on death:
“The Jews answered him, “We have a law, and according to our law He ought to die, because He made Himself the
Son of God” (John. 19:7).
From what follows, that if Lord Jesus Christ is not the God as well as His Father Jews have acted fairly, having
condemned Jesus Christ on death. Who today will dare to make the similar application?
Law of Moses speaks that Lord Jesus Christ is the true Son God, equal to the God and the God, as well as His
Father.
Words “sons of God” in relation to the man in the Holy Scripture specify that it sons of God on good fortune,
instead of by the nature as Jesus Christ, and to confuse these two concepts is inadmissible:
“For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, these are sons of God” (Romans 8:14);
“nor can they die anymore, for they are equal to the Angels and are sons of God, being sons of the resurrection”
(Luke 20:36).
And only Jesus Christ is Son God by the nature, is equal to the God and the God, as well as His Father:
“For to which of the Angels did He ever say: “You are My Son, today I have begotten You?” (Hebrews 1:5).
“I have made the earth, and created man on it” (Isaiah 45:12)
Sons of God are creature of God, but only Jesus Christ is begotten Son, not created.
God the Father and the Son of God Jesus Christ are the two separate Persons having the nature of the God, and to
mix the Father and the Son in one Person is inadmissible.
The God is one, but the Persons having the nature of the God, not one.
“Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one” (Deuteronomy 6:4);
“I will announce the definition: God has told to Me: You are My Son, today I have begotten You” (Psalm 2:7).
Set of these two verses gives the full basis to name Lord Jesus Christ “one more Person”, having the nature of
the God. To name Jesus Christ “one more God” in aggregate with told in Deuteronomy 6:4 “the Lord is one” - means
to contradict to definition of God, what Jesus Christ announced in Psalm 2:7.
From what follows, that the “God is one” is definition of God, which the Son of God in 7-th verse of 2-nd Psalm
has solemnly declared.
“I will announce the definition’ - the words of 7-th verse of 2-nd Psalm to which today it is not given any
value, as if these words in the Holy Scripture is not present. But these words in the Holy Scripture are, and
they are told by somebody, but Lord Jesus Christ, and they have the most direct attitude to the nature of the
God.
At reading the Holy Scripture at the person the impression is created, that on behalf of the God in the Old
Testament is submitted speaking only one Person, God the Father, but at close examination it is simple to define,
that it is far from being so.
“God said to Moses, “I am Who I am (Jehovah)”; and He said, “Thus you shall say to the sons of Israel, I am has
sent me to you. » (Exodus 3:14).
Who is submitted speaking in the Exodus 3:14 Father, the Son or Holy Spirit? Today practically everyone, not
reflecting will answer, that it is the God the Father while except for the Father speaking can be submitted both
the Son and Holy Spirit.
Let's result a verse of the Old Testament in which Father is submitted speaking only:
“Thus says God the Lord, who created the heavens and stretched them out, who spread out the earth and its
offspring, who gives breath to the people on it and spirit to those who walk in it,” (Isaiah 42:5).
Verses of the Old Testament in which the Son is submitted speaking only:
“Surely My hand founded the earth, and My right hand spread out the heavens;
when I call to them, they stand together” (Isaiah 48:13);
“You are My witnesses,” declares the Lord, “and My servant whom I have chosen,
so that you may know and believe Me and understand that I am He.
Before Me there was no God formed, and there will be none after Me” (Isaiah 43:10,11);
Verse of the Old Testament in which it is submitted speaking only Holy Spirit:
“The Lord said to Moses, “How long will this people spurn Me” (Numbers 14:11).
About a verse in which it is submitted speaking Holy Spirit, prophet Isaiah has mentioned:
“But they rebelled and grieved His Holy Spirit;” (Isaiah 63:10).
The special attention should be turned on verses of the Old Testament in which the word “King” in relation to
the God because in all these verses King is only the Son of God Lord Jesus Christ about what the God the Father
has told to us in 6-th verse of 2-nd psalm is mentioned:
“Yet I have set My King on My holy hill of Zion” (Psalm 2:6).
Therefore further in all verses in the Old Testament in the Holy Scripture where the word “King” in relation to
the God is mentioned the Son, not Father and not Holy Spirit is submitted, and to confuse these concepts besides
is inadmissible:
“I am the Lord, your Holy One, the Creator of Israel, your King” (Isaiah 43:15);
Speaking only about the Father, we speak about the one God, speaking only about the Son, we speak about the one
God, speaking only about the Holy Spirit, we speak about the one God, speaking about the Father, the Son, the
Holy Spirit, we speak about the one God, but not about one Person. That is why King is only one Person, the Son,
and to name King of the Father or Holy Spirit, it means to suppose mixture of Persons that to make it is
impossible. The Son of God is the one God, eternal King:
“In the year that king Uzziah died I saw also the Lord sitting upon the throne, high and lifted up, and His
train filled the temple.
Then said I, Woe is me! For I am undone; because I am a man of unclean lips, and I dwell in the midst of a
people of unclean lips; for mine eyes have seen the King, the Lord of hosts” (Isaiah 6:1,5).
“These things said Isaiah, when he saw His glory, and spoke of Him” (John 12:41), about Son of God, Lord Jesus
Christ, King, Lord of hosts.
“And about the Son: You, LORD, in the beginning laid the foundation of the earth, and the heavens are the work
of Your hands” (Hebrews. 1:8,10);
“Rejoice greatly, O daughter of Zion! Shout, O daughter of Jerusalem! Behold, your King is coming to you; He is
just and having salvation, lowly and riding on a donkey, a colt, the foal of a donkey” (Zechariah 9:9);
“And the LORD shall be King over all the earth. In that day it shall be. “The Lord is one,” And His name one”
(Zechariah 14:9);
“Then the King will say to those on His right hand, "Come, you blessed of My Father, inherit the kingdom
prepared for you from the foundation of the world” (Matthew 25:34);
“Pilate also wrote an inscription and put it on the cross. It was written, “Jesus the Nazarene, the King of the
Jews” (John 19:19);
“These will make war with the Lamb, and the Lamb will overcome them, for He is Lord of lords and King of kings;
and those who are with Him are called, chosen, and faithful” (Revelation 17:14);
“And He has on His robe and on His thigh a name written: King of kings and Lord of lords” (Revelation 19:16).
“Your arrows are sharp in the heart of the King's enemies; the peoples fall under You” (Psalm 45:5);
“For the Lord Most High is awesome; He is a great King over all the earth” (Psalm 47:2);
“Sing praises to God, sing praises! Sing praises to our King, sing praises!
For God is the King of all the earth; Sing praises with understanding” (Psalm 47:6,7);
“For the LORD is the great God, and the great King above all gods” (Psalm 95:3);
“Your eyes will see the King in His beauty; they will see the land that is very far off» (Isaiah 33:17);
“Lift up your heads, O you gates! And be lifted up, you everlasting doors!
And the King of glory shall come in.
Who is this King of glory? The Lord strong and mighty, the LORD mighty in battle.
Lift up your heads, O you gates! Lift up, you everlasting doors! And the King of glory shall come in.
Who is this King of glory? The Lord of hosts, He is the King of glory” (Psalm 24:7-10).
“And without controversy great is the mystery of godliness: God was manifested in the flesh, justified in the
Spirit, seen by angels, preached among the Gentiles, believed on in the world, received up in glory” (1 Timothy
3:16).
“Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and
of the Holy Spirit” (Matthew 28:19).

Vladimir Rumyantsev
E-mail: bigroad@olvex.ru
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The Word says, we are to look for Heavenly Things, not earthy things. Jesus called His sevants, that we might teach others to observe all things He has commandment of us, and to preach The Gospel of Christ! That repentance and remissions of sin shall be preached to all Nations!
(Luke-1-75-77) That we walk before Him in righteousness and holiness al the days of our life!

With His calling in mind, what has your posting, of the rich, money, reward, or the eviliness of another, have to do with the Kingdom of God?
One speaks from the love of their heart, with you, this seems to be the love is money! For with the mouth, man speaks from his heart!
Not onetime have you posted anything concerning Salvation, not onetime have you repeated the words of Jesus, whereby man might be saved.
You want to use the evil rich man for your benefit, does your heart not break to EVEN THINK, the very people you want to use may end up in Hell?
If the people you talk against are as evil as you say, why are you not praying for them, instead of trying to destroy them? Do you not know, Even the Religious can be saved!

Like I said to you before, Jesus is the Head to Rule over His True Chruch, this Authority has no man! Revenge is Mine saith The Lord, whereby, it is best that you leave it alone!
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Thanks for the insight, I was looking for insight on the web about this parable that I am teaching on Sunday morning. May the Lord bless you and keep you and make His face to shine upon you.

I can see how a church getting larger can get out of control, regarding the birds of the air making their nest in it.

May the Lord help us "small or large" to keep the birds out.

God Bless.
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i want every body to change and go back to GOD almighty.i am nigeria living in wiss
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i want to know to. A couple of weeks ago i saw a film about Barabas, where he eventually became a christian but it took him ages and he mucked up alot along the way. The facts fit. the times, but i want to know if its true, because if it was it would be cool. ive always felt that there was something of Barabas' story we werent hearing. I always felt like he should have changed. I hope some one can prove that right.
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Thank you so much for the link. I have bookmarked it for further use. May God Bless you and keep you, may His light forever shine upon you!
sisterdee
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in response to Gary:
the man who God gives the one talent to is the man with 5 talents who has earned an extra 5 (total 10 talents).
Also the Luke version states that there were 10 servants who were all given 1 mina (NIV). Also in the Luke version the servant is sent to slay the Master's enemies and is not sent into the darkness. My personal opinion on this is that the Matthew and Luke are not in fact the same story, just very similar stories. Jesus probably told the same parable dozens of times to different audiences and so adapted the parable to suit the audience. This may be the explanation why the two versions are differ in the two records. I hope that helps you.

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Like the other parables of Jesus, this one is about fruit-bearing, and the un-fruitful are thrown into hell. Those who hear the TRUE word of God, they are cleansed by it by doing it. Christ abides in the TRUE hearers and doers. Luke 6:47 - Whosoever cometh to me, and heareth my sayings, and doeth them..." John 8:47 - He that is of God heareth God's words: ye therefore hear them not, because ye are not of God. 1 Corinthians 4:15 - For though ye have ten thousand instructers in Christ, yet have ye not many fathers: for in Christ Jesus I have begotten you through the gospel." The branch cannot bear fruit by itself. 1 Corinthians 2:12 - Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the spirit which is of God; that we might know the things that are freely given to us of God. 2 Corinthians 3:5 - Not that we are sufficient of ourselves to think any thing as of ourselves; but our sufficiency is of God" Philippians 3:9 - And be found in him, not having mine own righteousness, which is of the law, but that which is through the faith of Christ, the righteousness which is of God by faith" 3 John 1:11 - Beloved, follow not that which is evil, but that which is good. He that doeth good is of God: but he that doeth evil hath not seen God." Who can do good, but the true ones on the vine? Even TRUE faith is not from flesh and blood, but from God. John 3:27 - John answered and said, A man can receive NOTHING, except it be given him from heaven." 1 Corinthians 12:9 - To another FAITH by the same Spirit; to another the gifts of healing by the same Spirit;" Not one man can TRULY say that Jesus Christ is the son of God nor can any man truly tell people,(so-called preachers, ministers, or pastors) Matthew 16:15 He saith unto them, But whom say ye that I am? 16 And Simon Peter answered and said, Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God. 17 And Jesus answered and said unto him, Blessed art thou, Simon Barjona: for flesh and blood hath not revealed it unto thee, but my Father which is in heaven." Also, to put an end to false teachers that say if you believe in Jesus Christ and accept him as your Lord and saviour, you'll be saved, NO MAN can come to Jesus unless God Himself decides that he would. Acts 16:31 - And they said, Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved, and thy house." But then, those people heared the TRUE word of God, and the words of JESUS CHRIST, John 6:44 No man can come to me, except the Father which hath sent me draw him: and I will raise him up at the last day. 2 Thessalonians 2:14 - Whereunto he called you by our gospel, to the obtaining of the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ." Then again, same gospel, 65 And he said, Therefore said I unto you, that no man can come unto me, except it were given unto him of my Father. 66 From that time many of his disciples went back, and walked no more with him. 67 Then said Jesus unto the twelve, Will ye also go away? 68 Then Simon Peter answered him, Lord, to whom shall we go? thou hast the words of eternal life. 69 And we believe and are sure that thou art that Christ, the Son of the living God.(God revealed it to them, and had faith in him, that faith is not from their own heart, but from God) 70 Jesus answered them, Have not I chosen you twelve(God approved those 12, not the other disciples, because if He did give it to them to come to Jesus, they would of stayed, like the true disciples), and one of you is a devil?" Now all you people that read this, the false christians will not believe this, but the true christians will. John 15:20 - Remember the word that I said unto you, The servant is not greater than his lord. If they have persecuted me, they will also persecute you; if they have kept my saying, they will keep yours also." These sayings are in the bible, those who just ignored them in the bible will ignore my words(no, not truly mine) also. Those who believe these things, or knew them already, please, please contact me, at dallascourchene @ hotmail.com (NOTE: there are no spaces in the address.) Also to the so-called born-again christians, what did God call you to do? Live a normal life? I don't think so. People who are truly called are CALLED to do something for the LORD, not just worship Him and those who are called, know what they have to do by a certain wonder, or phenomemon. Acts 16:10 - And after he had seen the VISION, immediately we endeavoured to go into Macedonia, assuredly gathering that the Lord had CALLED us for to preach the gospel unto them." Romans 1:1 - Paul, a servant of Jesus Christ, CALLED to be an apostle, separated unto the gospel of God," Romans 8:28 - And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose." 1 Corinthians 7:20 - Let every man abide in the same calling wherein he was called." Ephesians 4:1 - I therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you that ye walk worthy of the vocation wherewith ye are called," We MUST be also worthy of this calling. 2 Timothy 1:9 - Who hath saved us, and called us with an holy calling, not according to our works, but according to his own purpose and grace, which was given us in Christ Jesus before the world began," 1 Peter 2:21 - For even hereunto were ye called: because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that ye should follow his steps:" 1 Peter 5:10 - But the God of all grace, who hath called us unto his eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after that ye have suffered a while, make you PERFECT, stablish, strengthen, settle you." 2 Peter 1:3 - According as his divine power hath given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness, through the knowledge of him that hath called us to glory and virtue:" And yes, we can be perfect like Jesus. Romans 8:29 For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brethren. 30 Moreover whom he did predestinate, them he also called: and whom he called, them he also justified: and whom he justified, them he also glorified." 2 Corinthians 4:4 - In whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them." Philippians 2:6 - Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God:" John 16:33 - These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world." 1 John 2:13 - I write unto you, fathers, because ye have known him that is from the beginning. I write unto you, young men, because ye have overcome the wicked one. I write unto you, little children, because ye have known the Father." 1 John 3:9 - Whosoever is born of God doth not commit sin; for his seed remaineth in him: and he cannot sin, because he is born of God." Revelation 3:21 - To him that overcometh will I grant to sit with me in my throne, even as I also overcame, and am set down with my Father in his throne." We are called to be made into the image of Christ, who is the image of God. Jesus said so himself, the called can and will be like him. Matthew 10:25 - It is enough for the disciple that he be as his master, and the servant as his lord..."
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Interesting post you guys have,and I wanted to share Be wise!Keep Your Lamp Lit with(JESUS CHRIST)Filled With oil(As with the Holy Ghost)

There will be wise and foolish believers!

In the parable of the ten virgins, King Jesus Christ reveals that there will be wise and foolish believers in the day of His coming. He compares five wise virgins with five foolish virgins, they were ALL VIRGINS!

2 Corinthians 11:2

For I am jealous over you with godly jealousy: for I have espoused you to one husband, that I may present you as a chaste (virgin to Christ)

The WISE are those who usher a deep Love,and Personal Relationship with the Bridegroom and know King Jesus Christ is coming again for His bride.

(The Wise are Awake,and Watching)

Jesus Christ is the lamp,the light of the world John 8:12

Five/Half were Wise

Five/Half were Foolish!

The Foolish once lived in the wonderful joy of being ready and watching, but turned back to accept the careless lifestyle of worldly living and conduct(Back Sliding,Lukewarm) as Shared in Revelation 3:16 So then because thou art lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will spue thee out of my mouth)

The Lord is our LAMP

2 Samuel 22:29

For thou art my lamp, O LORD: and the LORD will lighten my darkness.

Psalm 119:105

Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.

Only the WISE had OIL! Only the wise had received the infilling of the Holy Spirit.Throughout Scripture, the oil is used as the symbol for the Holy Spirit.

Only the wise hungered and thirsted for righteousness and received God's promise of His fullness. They received,and ushered the fruit of the Spirit(Galatians 5:22-26)The fruit is produced as you abide in His infilling, as you abide in His fullness. The fruit of the Holy Spirit is the oil that makes your light shine, that makes you an overcomer, that empowers you to overcome your sinful nature producing garments that are clean and white without spot or wrinkle.

OIL in the dwelling of the WISE

Proverbs 3:35

(The wise shall inherit glory:) but shame shall be the promotion of fools.
Proverbs 14:35

(The king's favour) is toward a (wise servant) but his wrath is against him that causeth shame.

Proverbs 21:20

(There is treasure to be desired) and (oil in the dwelling of the wise) but a foolish man spendeth it up.

Proverbs 28:26

He that trusteth in his own heart is a fool (but whoso walketh (wisely) he shall be delivered)

The Wise Virgins(As Pure Heart)The Children of God who abide(Intimate)Who have a personal Relationship(Born Again)with JESUS CHRIST!Lamps Lit,and filled with oil(As Holy Ghost)

The Foolish Virgins were not thankful,and were not grateful enough to love King Jesus Christ more than anything,and everything(with all their Heart,Soul,and Mind)

This is the first and great commandment)as Shared in Deuteronomy 6:5,Matthew 22:37-38,and Mark 12:30

The foolish had none of the oil that comes from surrender of self. They did not replenish the oil of the Holy Spirit. They did not hunger and thirst for righteousness and become filled.

The Foolish let their Love,and fire for the Lord dwindle to a lukewarm ember as Shared in Revelation 3:16 So then because thou art lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will spue thee out of my mouth.

(Matthew 25:10) This is incredible language that leaves no room for misunderstanding. The door is shut on these foolish virgins and they miss the welcome into the wedding chamber. The warning would suggest that these foolish virgins are just like much of our church world. They once lived in the wonderful joy of being ready and watching, but turned back to accept the careless lifestyle of worldly living and conduct(Back Sliding,Lukewarm)

To read More of the Message about The Rapture, WISE,and Foolish visit http://www.raptureprophecy.com and see the webpage called (Rapture of His Bride)


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You said I should read you last posting, well I did and it's more of the same nonsense! I will tell you, Instead of knocking, (11Corin-13-5) You need to examine yourself, and be sure whether Christ Jesus is in you, except you be Reprobate! You will find no one, who loves My Lord Jesus Christ, more then I do, I have been homeless, I have gone without my daily needs, I am disabled, I have been cold, hungry and without proper clothing, but no matter what state I have been in, or may be in, He has given me Riches according to His Glory!
(Ephesians-3-16) He has granted me, to be strengthened with might, by His Spirit in my inner soul, that I am comfortable, no matter what condition I find myself in!
My only concern is for this lost deceived world, that He gave His Life for, that the world might receive the knowledge of Him, that they might be saved! If you don't love the Lost, enough to give your life that they might be saved, you need to find another way to make the almighty dollar!
That's the very problem with today's religious leaders, their first love is like your, their own self gain, the Riches of the World, the almighty dollar!
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Just because someone with riches who wishes to keep them dare insult a beggar as a thief does not imply that Jesus would consider the beggar to have even thought about stealing anything, as if it were a sin to ask. On the contrary, Jesus Christ taught His followers to keep on asking, seeking, and knocking, expecting to receive, find, and benefit from opened doors! (Matt. 7:7, Greek )

The warning for dealing with such people is in Matt. 7:6. The Word of God is "sacred [stuff] to dogs" or "pearls [cast] before pigs" to any person who dare insult any beggar as a thief without awareness of any actual theft. Our warning from Christ is that these people might turn on us and tear us to pieces if we present the Word unwelcomely. What will happen in heaven in all cases of a Christian who has suffered for asking and been treated as a thief, the word "stealing" in the insult will fail to translate to the Hebrew root in "Thou shalt not steal" (Ex. 20); if the insult came from another believer, such a Christian shall be compelled to repent as a liar and a lover of money. Still, we must watch out in the here and now for pretended Christians who accept the world's definition of "stealing".

Legally, the crime of larceny, the legal name for simple theft, has been committed when someone has illegally deprived someone else of the use of his goods by taking something away without consent. The evil person who accuses someone making a material request of "stealing" has no charges whatsoever to press until the item is physically stolen. Still, if the evil person be a store manager or cashier, they can impose ejection and announce permanent unwelcomeness. That is not punishment for theft, but martyrdom for begging. Do not believe the evil claim that the beggar accused of stealing has stolen anything without a physically stolen item!

As for the Apostle Paul's command in Eph. 4:28, it applies only to genuine thieves. The command to work with one's hands does not take effect because a beggar got insulted as if he were a thief, but because a real theft was committed. Sometimes, as in 3 John 7, an utterly uncooperative mission field will force Christians to accept that there will be no help from the pagans and to work for all the money for ministry. Still, the command from our Lord Jesus the Messiah is to make friends with "the mammon of unrighteousness" so that the rich folk of this world might take care of us in times of trouble and might endow our congregations financially. Not all such friends, however, will. Yet if the rich folk of this world will take care of us in hard times or grant us wealth for our ministries, not only are we commanded by Christ to accept it, we are commanded to seek the ties that lead to it (Luke 16:9, KJV).

I will not defend sins of idleness or actual theft as a Christian. Great is the mercy of God! Will seeking the favour of rich folk would make us idle? I believe that shallow Christians might be made idle by oodles of money, yet firm believers will try to use such money to spread the Good News throughout the whole world! Instead of living in these Unites States where most unbelievers have heard and rejected our Gospel, we could go among such peoples as the Miao of China who have no testimony of Jesus Christ if we had plenty of wealth and did not have to live there as impoverished outsiders.

I hope never again to hear you later consider the moocher as stealing. The seeker of permission to take something has not stolen until the item is taken without consent. A supermarket grazer is a thief, but it is not really "stealing" to ask for something and be told, No. Jesus indeed commanded us to continue to ask, seek, and knock!

Yours in Christ,

+++Kevin Douglas Rosenberg

a martyr for continuing to ask, seek, and knock (Matt. 7:7 )

P. S. We ignore the meaning of one translated text alone in favor of interpretation because the original, fully inspired Scriptures were written in Hebrew, Aramaic, and Ancient Greek. They do not translate word for word into Modern English!

As for misguided, fleshly yet litteral interpretations of Scripture, consider the following three kinds of backslidden Christians:

(1 ) The evil servants in charge who run their churches in personal sin as if judgement were not coming upon them through humans on this earth (Matt. 24:45-51 ). (Ten Virgins comments)

(2 ) Those treated as mentally ill, caused to sin in idleness. The curse from Matthew 18:5-7 stalks somebody else for causing their habitual sins...

(3 ) Anybody who got persecuted among even one other believer and got called to flee but could not. Have sympathy for such people, as for me. My evangelist was persecuted as mentally ill, and I got persecuted within ten days of my conversion along with him for my "baby Christian" testimony among Hindus at the University of Illinois. We got called to flee together (Matt. 10:23 ), yet we had not read that passage yet. About ten weeks later, he withdrew from the U of I and fled to Texas without me. Without transportation, I could not ask his church for help. I had implored him to take me there to stay, but he would not. Still believing, still insisting that my calling was to remain to pursue my degree and eventually a PhD (?-- Matt 23:1ff ) in Chemistry (?-- Col. 2:8 ), he refused to take me unless I promised to return with his car that horrible day in December 1991. God knew that I was headed for deepening trouble at the U of I and that no church there was able to meet my needs.

The believer who has missed his missionary calling through failure to flee in the Modern English speaking culture deserves compassion. I had no one to ask to take me to Texas. My departed evangelist would not do his part to escape his brother's church in Arlington TX in order to seek another in neighbouring Dallas TX which might have shown me a welcome and my need to go out as a missionary rather than struggling to build a life of my own in these United States. No one should blame me for the failure of the churches of Urbana and Champaign to bring me in and lead me to the one which might have rebuked my career plan and led me out into the mission field.




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Sandals in the Bible are connected with the feet. Feet are connected with the WALK. The father is interested in our walk. The son was obviously barefooted. His feet/walk were exposed to stones, glass, injury of all kinds whilst unshod. When we are not walking with God, our feet, our lives are exposed to the pains which are caused by sin and transgression. When our feet, our walk is protected by the sandals we can walk in a way that is pleasing to our father. Sandals represent protection for the feet, a renewed walk, walking on a right path. See Psalm 1.

Paul also spoke of the feet being shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace. See Ephesians 6. There we can relate to the need for the feet to be prepared to walk or run with the gospel message. Without feet that are properly shodden or covered, they too will be exposed to the harshness of the road. It won't be long that we shall not be able to walk with the gospel. We need help.

We need to have feet that are properly prepared for the journey, wether the Christian life or the gospel.

How beautiful are the feet of them the publish the gospel of peace.
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