#doctrine and covenants 12:8

[mindfulldsliving]

Trusting the Lord in Times of Suffering: An Expository Study of Alma 14

In our journey of faith, suffering can often feel insurmountable. It's in these moments that we must remember Christ's example and His ultimate sacrifice.

Alma the Younger and Amulek are led away from the fire that has consumed the believers in Ammonihah. Suffering is an inevitable part of the human experience, especially for believers striving to walk the path of righteousness. In Alma 14, we find a profound example of enduring faith amidst unimaginable trials. Alma and Amulek faced severe persecution and witnessed the martyrdom of the faithful,…

[loveerran]

LDS Doctrine, 8yr-old Transgender Children and Policy

One of the most shocking things about the new LDS policies for transgender children, is the policy that appears to deny or severely restrict their access to baptism. I discussed that briefly here (last year and recently). This post looks more at the doctrinal side of the question.

LDS doctrine has been amazingly clear and consistent on the treatment of little children prior to the age of accountability (defined as 8yrs-old in Doctrine & Covenants 68) from the very early days of the church. I honestly feel this issue has some nuance, but the church has been absolutely unwavering in stating the tenet that children under the age of 8 cannot sin, or even if they can their sin is swallowed up in the atonement of Christ automatically.

I might personally believe that accountability for actions is a continuum based on the light and law an individual has received (2 Nephi 9:25-6, Luke 12:47-9, Romans 4:15, 5:13, DC 137:7 – a continuum applying to all individuals, regardless of age). However, LDS doctrine and statements are emphatic in declaring the complete innocence of little children, and that the atonement covers them completely until the child is 8 years old:

Moroni 8:8,11-2,14,19 (verses 20+ are much harsher) “...wherefore little children are whole, for they are not capable of committing sin… their little children need no repentance… little children are alive in Christ, from the foundation of the world… little children cannot repent; wherefore it is awful wickedness to deny the pure mercies of God unto them…”

DC 20:71 “No one can be received into the church of Christ unless he has arrived at the years of accountability before God, and is capable of repentance”

DC 68:27 “And their children shall be baptized for the remission of their sins when eight years old, and receive the laying on of the hands”

DC 74:7 “But little children are holy, being sanctified through the atonement of Christ; and this is what the scriptures mean”

See also Mosiah 3:16, Mosiah 15:25, DC 29:46-7, DC 137:10, JST Genesis 17:3-11, etc.

Taken together, little children are whole and clean through Jesus Christ until they arrive at the years of accountability and are capable of repentance. And that age is 8 years old. Church leaders have repeatedly restated this:

Dallin H Oaks: “We understand from our doctrine that before the age of accountability a child is ‘not capable of committing sin’” (Dallin H. Oaks, “Sins and Mistakes,” Ensign, Oct. 1996, 65)

Bruce R. McConkie “There comes a time, however, when accountability is real and actual and sin is attributed in the lives of those who develop normally. It is eight years of age, the age of baptism.” (Bruce R. McConkie, “The Salvation of Little Children,” Ensign, Apr. 1977, 6)

And we can even see this in the policies laid out in the current General Handbook of Instructions:

31.2.3.1: Children who are Members of Record

(note: children of record are children whose names are on the rolls of the church prior to baptism at age 8)

"In the interview, the bishopric member ensures that the child understands the purposes of baptism (see 2 Nephi 31:5–20). He also ensures that the child understands the baptismal covenant and is committed to live by it (see Mosiah 18:8–10). He does not need to use a specified list of questions. This is not an interview to determine worthiness, since 'little children need no repentance' (Moroni 8:11)."

(bold emphasis mine)

But for the first time in our history, we have an exception to this rule, and it applies only if the child is transgender. Instead of a meaningful interview with the local bishop or one of his counselors about following Jesus, a transgender child (and only a transgender child) who dresses differently or uses a different name and pronouns must have a worthiness interview with the regional Stake President directly. There is no other ‘sin’ that calls for this, even when little children have somehow perpetrated horrible crimes. If the Stake President finds the child worthy (is this even possible under the new guidelines??), he recommends the child for baptism to the First Presidency. The First Presidency is the highest council/court in the church, from which there is no appeal. The First Presidency then chooses whether or not to permit the child to be baptized. This new policy is spelled out in the Handbook:

38.2.8.9: Individuals Who Identify as Transgender

"Any exception to this policy requires the approval of the First Presidency. To request approval, the mission president, or the stake president for an eight-year-old, interviews the person. If he finds the person to be worthy and if he recommends baptism and confirmation, he submits a request for approval to the First Presidency using LCR."

(bold emphasis mine)

In the past, the church has denied baptism to the children of polygamists and to the children of gays (possibly others). In those cases, it could always be said the child’s parents were at fault, not the child themselves. This new policy is a marked departure from that and, in my opinion, is inconsistent with the church’s doctrine. I hope to see this policy adjusted as other policies have been when they do not align well with our core values and doctrines.

Love,

Erran

[nerdygaymormon]

Mormon thoughts on circumcision?

Many Latter-day Saints are circumcised because it is a social norm in the United States, but it is not medically necessary or even recommended, it is merely a social tradition.

The Book of Mormon specifically states that the law of circumcision "is done away" in Christ (Moroni 8:8).

The Doctrine & Covenants explains that in the early church (meaning the time of the apostles Paul, Peter, and so on) there was "contention" over the practice of circumcision, and it was done away with so that people knew to put their faith in Christ and not in the Law of Moses (D&C 74:2-7).

In the Bible, the Apostles and Elders at the Council of Jerusalem decided to stop circumcision as a requirement for Gentile converts to Christianity (Acts 15:1–35).

Some other New Testament passages that say circumcision is no longer required include: Galatians 2:1–3; 5:1–11; 6:11–16 1 Corinthians 7:17–20 Colossians 2:8–12 Philippians 3:1–3

There is no religious reason for Mormons to be circumcised.

[snappingsquids]

CW: death, suicide, mormonism

here's another lil late night exmormon rambling.

people know that mormons believe some whacky stuff: magic underwear, sex cults, familial hostage situations, and baptizing children for dead people. but honestly that skips over some of the more whack stuff, but here's a lil list.

here's a break if you need to bail out now.

1b) oh! and if you're a kid who dies before 8, or a stillborn, or whatever then you automatically go to heaven and if your parents were good Mormons their entire lives then they get to raise you in heaven. (idk how this works with the whole, become a god thing)

1a) so mormons believe that children younger than 8 aren't responsible for their sins. we still sinned, but it was our parents fault until the baptism. THEN they count.

1c) so when you're a month away from your 8th birthday and baptism and your mom births a stillborn, what do you think you learn?

ENVY OF A FUCKING CORPSE.

it's actually wild how much I envied the dead when I was growing up. automatic heaven, a chance to have lived a full life and then still get saved, release from this mortal coil, etc.

2) when I was 12 a guy in his mid forties in my ward stopped me between sacrament and young men's (barf) and said "I believe that if Jesus has revealed himself to anyone on earth, it is your parents.

WHAT THE FUCK DUDE.

3) Mormons still believe in polygamy, and not even like the FLDS (fundamentalists), but polygamy is revealed as "the new and everlasting covenant". unmarried, righteous Mormon women in heaven get married off to a man. don't like sharing your husband? too bad ma'am, you get a sister wife. like they may not be brazen on earth, but it's gonna be a freaky gay free-for-all if you're a new god.

4a) if you're trans and die, don't worry. all that struggling in your life, the dysphoria, hostile culture wars, abuse, violence, and general terrorism? it all goes away!

CAUSE THEY FORCIBLY DE-TRANS YOU WHEN THEY RESURRECT YOU.

4b) unironically, in the 90s they dropped The Family: A Proclamation to the World! this espouses that gender is an eternal construct, not just a mortal one. and like, yeah, you can see it coming if you read the doctrine. gender roles are whack and all over the place, but even in death they restore your body to "its most perfect state in life". and like obviously scars, tattoos, body modifications, disabilities, or physical deformation is on the list, but trans people will be reverted to pre-transition by default. (this also might have biblical basis for the resurrection part, but I never was good with the Bible)

what a miserable way to live. what a horrific way to die. no fucking wonder this is a sex cult that worships death and sycophants.

[biblegumchewontheword]

Books of the Bible

Here is a detailed list of the 66 books of the Bible, divided by the Old and New Testaments, along with their divisions and categories:

**Old Testament:**

**Pentateuch (5 books):**

1. Genesis

2. Exodus

3. Leviticus

4. Numbers

5. Deuteronomy

**Historical Books (12 books):**

6. Joshua

7. Judges

8. Ruth

9. 1 Samuel

10. 2 Samuel

11. 1 Kings

12. 2 Kings

13. 1 Chronicles

14. 2 Chronicles

15. Ezra

16. Nehemiah

17. Esther

**Poetry/Wisdom Books (5 books):**

18. Job

19. Psalms

20. Proverbs

21. Ecclesiastes

22. Song of Solomon

**Major Prophets (5 books):**

23. Isaiah

24. Jeremiah

25. Lamentations

26. Ezekiel

27. Daniel

**Minor Prophets (12 books):**

28. Hosea

29. Joel

30. Amos

31. Obadiah

32. Jonah

33. Micah

34. Nahum

35. Habakkuk

36. Zephaniah

37. Haggai

38. Zechariah

39. Malachi

**New Testament:**

**Gospels (4 books):**

40. Matthew

41. Mark

42. Luke

43. John

**History (1 book):**

44. Acts

**Pauline Epistles (13 books):**

45. Romans

46. 1 Corinthians

47. 2 Corinthians

48. Galatians

49. Ephesians

50. Philippians

51. Colossians

52. 1 Thessalonians

53. 2 Thessalonians

54. 1 Timothy

55. 2 Timothy

56. Titus

57. Philemon

**General Epistles (8 books):**

58. Hebrews

59. James

60. 1 Peter

61. 2 Peter

62. 1 John

63. 2 John

64. 3 John

65. Jude

**Apocalyptic (1 book):**

66. Revelation

This list represents the traditional order and grouping of the books of the Bible in most Christian denominations.

These are the 66 books that make up the Bible.

Title: The Significance of Each Book of the Bible

Introduction:

The Bible is a collection of 66 books that together form the inspired Word of God. Each book has its own unique message, themes, and significance that contribute to the overall story of God's redemption and love for humanity. Let's explore the importance of each book of the Bible.

Lesson Points:

1. The Old Testament:

- Genesis: The book of beginnings, detailing creation, the fall, and the establishment of God's covenant with His people.

- Exodus: The story of the Israelites' liberation from Egypt and the giving of the Law at Mount Sinai.

- Psalms: A collection of songs and prayers that express a range of human emotions and provide a guide for worship.

- Proverbs: Wisdom literature that offers practical advice for living a righteous and wise life.

- Isaiah: Prophecies about the coming Messiah and God's plan of salvation.

2. The New Testament:

- Matthew: Emphasizes Jesus as the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies and the establishment of the kingdom of God.

- Acts: Chronicles the early spread of the Gospel and the growth of the early church.

- Romans: Explains the doctrine of justification by faith and the implications of salvation through Christ.

- Corinthians: Addresses issues within the church and provides practical guidance for Christian living.

- Revelation: Offers apocalyptic visions of the end times, the victory of Christ, and the establishment of the new heaven and earth.

3. Themes and Messages:

- Each book of the Bible contributes to the overarching themes of God's love, redemption, forgiveness, and salvation for all humanity.

- Together, these books provide a complete narrative of God's work in the world and His plan for His people.

Application:

- Take time to explore and study each book of the Bible, seeking to understand its unique message and significance.

- Reflect on how the themes and stories in the Bible can impact your own life and faith journey.

- Consider how the teachings and examples in the Bible can shape your beliefs and actions as a follower of Christ.

Conclusion:

The books of the Bible are not just separate entities but are interconnected parts of the larger story of God's redemption and love for humanity. Each book has its own importance and contributes to the overall message of God's plan for salvation. May we approach the study of the Bible with reverence and openness to the wisdom and guidance it offers for our lives.

[wolint]

PIDGIN Spiritual Growth

PIDGIN Spiritual Growth 

Colossians 1:9-10 “Bikos of dis, wi too, since wi hear about una, wi neva stop to dey pray for una. Wi dey tell God make E show una wetin E wont, so dat una go dey wise and undastand God Spirit, 10den una life go betta just as Christ wont. For all di good tins wey una dey do, make una dey bear fruit and learn to know God more-more.

 

Every living thing—whether na plant, animal, or human being—get breath inside am, and e suppose grow! Life no dey stand one place; e dey move from one level to another, from one season to another. Everything for life get stage, even your spiritual life. As human being, we dey grow for every stage of life. As believers, we suppose dey grow for our knowledge of God and for the way we take love each other.

Change and growth dey important because dem dey show say life dey and God people dey move forward. Our relationship with God dey change us every day. God dey always work for our life to bring change and growth, so the more we spend time with am, the more we go dey like am. As 1 John 2:6 talk am, “the person wey talk say e dey inside Christ suppose dey live like Christ live.” Na spiritual growth dey help us waka like Christ, dey copy im faith, love, obedience, and selfless life.

Spiritual growth na the process wey person dey become more and more like Jesus Christ. When we put our faith for Jesus, na Holy Spirit dey start to dey change us to dey like am, dey make us resemble am. Romans 12:2 tell us make we no dey behave like the world, but make we dey change by the way we dey think. Na only when we get sense wey come from God we fit avoid to dey behave like the world, and we go dey grow spiritually no matter where we dey.

2 Peter 1:3-8 explain spiritual growth well well. E talk say by God power, we get “everything we need” to live correct life wey go please God, and na the main thing be that. Wetin we need dey come “through our knowledge of Him,” and na the key be that. This knowledge dey come from the Word of God, wey God give us to build us up and make us grow.

We suppose grow! Hebrews 6:1-14 warn us make we no dey go back, because e fit lead us to leave God. E talk say time go reach wey we suppose move from small small doctrine go the real, deep things of Christ. Spiritual growth mean say we dey move from “baby Christianity” go mature Christianity, as Hebrews 5:11–6:20 talk am. This passage dey challenge us to grow for faith, and e list the basic things wey we suppose sabi as we dey grow, and e warn about the danger of falling away if we no dey grow or we no dey follow Word of God.

You dey grow spiritually? How you dey do am? You fit see difference for the way you dey do spiritual things now compared to before? You don learn more and dey depend on Bible pass before, or you still dey follow wetin people talk?

Our spiritual food suppose move from milk to solid food as we dey grow. Proverbs 1:5 talk say as we dey learn, we suppose dey grow and dey add better things for our life. Make we get spiritual growth mindset so we fit reach our full potential, hold Word of God tight, and make Holy Spirit dey lead us.

Spiritual growth mean say you dey hear, you dey learn, and you dey follow. For Deuteronomy 5:1-12, we see as the people enter covenant with God, and Moses tell dem make dem listen, learn, and obey God law. As believers, we too don enter covenant with God through Jesus Christ, so we suppose dey do wetin God expect from us. Moses three advice to Israel people still make sense for us today:

- To hear mean say you dey take in and accept wetin God talk.

- To learn mean say you dey understand wetin e mean and how e take concern you.

- To follow mean say you dey put everything wey you learn into action.

All these three dey important if you wan get better relationship with God.

Make we no be like those people for Isaiah 27:11—dead wood wey no get use except to burn. Make we no be like Israelites wey God call senseless and no get understanding.

Our mindset suppose shift from worldly things go spiritual and godly things if we wan grow mature for God. 1 Peter 2:2 talk say make we dey like small pikin wey dey hungry for pure spiritual milk so we fit grow.

PRAYER: Papa God, thank You say You dey help me grow spiritually through Your Word and Your Spirit. Help me make I dey chop only wetin go help me grow, in Jesus name. Amen.

Shalom

WOMEN OF LIGHT INT’L PRAYER MIN

[mstulipsage]

RE: Grace and Courtesy

In the Montessori classroom, Grace and Courtesy lessons cultivate the child's ability to live harmoniously within a community. From a Reformed Presbyterian perspective, this social formation is understood within the broader context of God’s covenantal design for human life. Children are not morally neutral beings—they are covenant members being shaped by the rhythms and rituals of a God-ordered world. Therefore, Grace and Courtesy are not just social niceties but a form of discipleship in Christian love and justice, preparing the child to love God and neighbor in tangible ways (Luke 10:27).

II. Definition and Theological Parallels

Montessori:

Grace is harmony within oneself.

Courtesy is harmony between self and others.

Reformed View:

Grace is God’s unmerited favor, and in Christ, believers are inwardly renewed. Harmony within oneself is a fruit of the Spirit (Gal. 5:22–23) resulting from peace with God (Rom. 5:1).

Courtesy flows from the second table of the Law—how we love others. It is the outward fruit of regenerated hearts, producing gentleness, humility, and respect in community (Phil. 2:3–4).

Thus, while Montessori describes grace and courtesy as cultural adaptation, the Reformed framework roots them in the moral law of God, written on the heart (Rom. 2:15) and fulfilled in Christ.

III. The Absorbent Mind and Moral Formation

Montessori teaches that the child absorbs emotional and behavioral patterns from their environment through the Absorbent Mind. She emphasizes that we, the adults, are the material.

From a Reformed standpoint, this affirms the doctrine of covenantal representation and imitation. Children learn how to live in the world primarily through modeling (Prov. 22:6; Deut. 6:6–7). The early years are not morally passive but spiritually formative. Children are being shaped for blessing or curse (Deut. 30:19).

Grace and Courtesy thus become a way to catechize young hearts toward lives of Christian civility and service.

IV. Purpose of Grace and Courtesy in the Reformed Tradition

Montessori Purpose: Teaches appropriate group behavior; prevents misbehavior; cultivates confidence and social poise.

Reformed Purpose: Trains the child to walk in God's ways, live out the fruit of the Spirit, and serve others in humility (Micah 6:8; Eph. 4:1–3). The goal is not behavior modification but heart transformation that manifests in respectful and godly social habits.

Moreover, these lessons align with the Third Use of the Law—God’s moral instruction guiding believers in sanctification.

V. “We Are the Material” — Embodied Discipleship

Montessori emphasizes that adults must live out Grace and Courtesy because the child imitates what he sees.

In Reformed theology, this reflects the principle that covenant children imitate the faith and conduct of their leaders (Heb. 13:7; 1 Cor. 11:1). The adult is a living parable of gospel life. This makes the teacher’s role not only educational but pastoral—she embodies Christian virtue in word and deed (Col. 3:12–14).

VI. Teaching Without Coercion: Heart-Based Practice

Montessori warns against forcing verbal expressions like “say thank you.” Instead, behavior must arise from within.

This aligns with the Reformed understanding that outward obedience is meaningless without inward renewal. True politeness is not external conformity but a fruit of regeneration (Matt. 15:8–9). Children must be shepherded, not merely managed.

Teachers model Christlike behavior and create opportunities to imitate, not manipulate responses.

VII. Ritual, Routine, and Liturgy

Montessori notes that children are drawn to rituals and routines, especially in the sensitive period for order.

This resonates with the Reformed emphasis on liturgy and formative habitus. Young children are shaped by repeated actions—they form patterns of virtue through the “liturgy” of the classroom. Greetings, mealtime order, waiting one’s turn—these are not just manners, but training in dominion, love, and patience.

This echoes how Reformed worship forms the believer: through repetition, reverence, and God-centered rhythms.

VIII. Extensions and Applications

Montessori encourages cross-cultural exploration and practical application in daily routines (e.g., lunch).

In a Reformed context, this would be seen as training children to live missionally—to love the stranger (Lev. 19:34), to bear with others (Rom. 15:1), and to embody Christ in both familiar and foreign contexts. Courtesy prepares the child for life as salt and light in the world (Matt. 5:13–16).

IX. Summary and Key Points of Integration

Montessori PrincipleReformed IntegrationGrace = inner harmonyGrace = peace from God through Christ; inner fruit of SpiritCourtesy = social harmonyCourtesy = second table obedience; loving neighbor in truthAbsorbent Mind copies adultsChildren imitate covenant models (Prov. 22:6, Eph. 5:1)Rituals shape childrenFormative liturgies shape covenant faithfulnessNo correction via coercionShepherd the heart; train in love, not legalismSafe, respectful environmentChristian hospitality: the classroom as sanctuary of love and order

X. Conclusion

Grace and Courtesy in Montessori education offers a profound opportunity to disciple children in the culture of the Kingdom of God. It is not merely etiquette, but an application of the law of Christ (Gal. 6:2) within the daily life of the classroom. When shaped by a Reformed understanding of covenant, regeneration, and sanctification, Grace and Courtesy becomes a visible witness of gospel transformation—rooted in grace, enacted in love, and fruitful unto God’s glory.

[walkwithgod07]

28 Woe to the crown of pride, to the drunkards of Ephraim, whose glorious beauty is a fading flower, which are on the head of the fat valleys of them that are overcome with wine!

2 Behold, the Lord hath a mighty and strong one, which as a tempest of hail and a destroying storm, as a flood of mighty waters overflowing, shall cast down to the earth with the hand.

3 The crown of pride, the drunkards of Ephraim, shall be trodden under feet:

4 And the glorious beauty, which is on the head of the fat valley, shall be a fading flower, and as the hasty fruit before the summer; which when he that looketh upon it seeth, while it is yet in his hand he eateth it up.

5 In that day shall the Lord of hosts be for a crown of glory, and for a diadem of beauty, unto the residue of his people,

6 And for a spirit of judgment to him that sitteth in judgment, and for strength to them that turn the battle to the gate.

7 But they also have erred through wine, and through strong drink are out of the way; the priest and the prophet have erred through strong drink, they are swallowed up of wine, they are out of the way through strong drink; they err in vision, they stumble in judgment.

8 For all tables are full of vomit and filthiness, so that there is no place clean.

9 Whom shall he teach knowledge? and whom shall he make to understand doctrine? them that are weaned from the milk, and drawn from the breasts.

10 For precept must be upon precept, precept upon precept; line upon line, line upon line; here a little, and there a little:

11 For with stammering lips and another tongue will he speak to this people.

12 To whom he said, This is the rest wherewith ye may cause the weary to rest; and this is the refreshing: yet they would not hear.

13 But the word of the Lord was unto them precept upon precept, precept upon precept; line upon line, line upon line; here a little, and there a little; that they might go, and fall backward, and be broken, and snared, and taken.

14 Wherefore hear the word of the Lord, ye scornful men, that rule this people which is in Jerusalem.

15 Because ye have said, We have made a covenant with death, and with hell are we at agreement; when the overflowing scourge shall pass through, it shall not come unto us: for we have made lies our refuge, and under falsehood have we hid ourselves:

16 Therefore thus saith the Lord God, Behold, I lay in Zion for a foundation a stone, a tried stone, a precious corner stone, a sure foundation: he that believeth shall not make haste.

17 Judgment also will I lay to the line, and righteousness to the plummet: and the hail shall sweep away the refuge of lies, and the waters shall overflow the hiding place.

18 And your covenant with death shall be disannulled, and your agreement with hell shall not stand; when the overflowing scourge shall pass through, then ye shall be trodden down by it.

19 From the time that it goeth forth it shall take you: for morning by morning shall it pass over, by day and by night: and it shall be a vexation only to understand the report.

20 For the bed is shorter than that a man can stretch himself on it: and the covering narrower than that he can wrap himself in it.

21 For the Lord shall rise up as in mount Perazim, he shall be wroth as in the valley of Gibeon, that he may do his work, his strange work; and bring to pass his act, his strange act.

22 Now therefore be ye not mockers, lest your bands be made strong: for I have heard from the Lord God of hosts a consumption, even determined upon the whole earth.

23 Give ye ear, and hear my voice; hearken, and hear my speech.

24 Doth the plowman plow all day to sow? doth he open and break the clods of his ground?

25 When he hath made plain the face thereof, doth he not cast abroad the fitches, and scatter the cummin, and cast in the principal wheat and the appointed barley and the rie in their place?

26 For his God doth instruct him to discretion, and doth teach him.

27 For the fitches are not threshed with a threshing instrument, neither is a cart wheel turned about upon the cummin; but the fitches are beaten out with a staff, and the cummin with a rod.

28 Bread corn is bruised; because he will not ever be threshing it, nor break it with the wheel of his cart, nor bruise it with his horsemen.

29 This also cometh forth from the Lord of hosts, which is wonderful in counsel, and excellent in working.

[dfroza]

A link to my personal reading of the Scriptures

for the 21st of march 2025 with a paired chapter from each Testament (the First & the New Covenant) of the Bible

[The Letter of Colossians, Chapter 2 • The Book of 2nd Chronicles, Chapter 17]

along with Today’s reading from the ancient books of Proverbs and Psalms with Proverbs 21 and Psalm 21 coinciding with the day of the month, accompanied by Psalm 2 for the 2nd day of Astronomical Spring, and Psalm 80 for day 80 of the year (with the consummate book of 150 Psalms in its 1st revolution this year)

A post by John Parsons:

Our Meditation all the day...

The Scriptures declare: "Blessed is the man who ... delights in the Torah of the LORD (בְּתוֹרַת יְהוָה); all that he does shall prosper" (Psalm 1:1-3). And while it is true that we are no longer 'under' the terms of the covenant given at Sinai (Rom. 3:23), we still delight 'in' the Torah and meditate on its precepts day and night (Psalm 1:2; 19:8; 119:15, 47, 97; Neh. 8:12, etc.). After all, Torah “written upon the heart” is a mark of the New Covenant believer (Jer. 31:31-33). As it is written in Proverbs: "If you seek it [i.e., the wisdom revealed in the Torah] like silver and search for it as for hidden treasures, then you will understand the fear of the LORD and find the knowledge of God” (Prov. 2:4-5).

Where it is written, “all Scripture is breathed out by God (θεόπνευστος) and is profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work" (2 Tim 3:16-17), it is evident that the Scriptures referred to here are the Jewish Scriptures (i.e., the Torah, the Prophets, and the Writings), since they are the foundation, the context, and the overarching matrix for the later New Covenant revelation. These were the Scriptures Yeshua used to contextualize and explain his ministry to his followers: “And beginning with Moses and all the Prophets, he interpreted to them in all the Scriptures the things concerning himself” (Luke 24:27; John 1:45).

This implies that the Torah has a logical, linguistic, and theological priority regarding our understanding of the New Testament, and the failure to read in context invariably leads to faulty interpretations and doctrinal errors of various kinds. “To the Jew first, and [then] to the Greek” (Rom. 1:16) is a principle not only of how the gospel message would transcend ethnic Israel to be offered to all the nations, but also about how we should approach the subject of Biblical “hermeneutics.” God “breathed out” his revelation in order, and the message itself must be understood in light of that order (John 4:22).

[ Hebrew for Christians ]

========

Psalm 119:97 reading:

https://hebrew4christians.com/Blessings/Blessing_Cards/psalm119-97-jjp.mp3

Hebrew page:

https://hebrew4christians.com/Blessings/Blessing_Cards/psalm119-97-lesson.pdf

3.20.25 • Facebook

from Israel365

Today’s message (Days of Praise) from the Institute for Creation Research

[wizanda]

Messianic Return

Unfortunately we're on the verge of Armageddon in the Middle East, where the Messiah has returned secretly before it (Revelation 16:15-16 & 3:3) - to try to resolve where Pharisaic Judaism made up Christianity (John, Paul, Simon petros), and then Judgement Day comes.

The return is testing who is ready before the reformatting of reality; like the Parable of the Wise and Foolish Virgins (Matthew 25:1-13) before the Wedding Supper of the Lamb.

Which is as Ancient Babylonian Israel (Judaeo-Christendom) start their war against Ancient Eden - Iran (Islam), a fire comes from the sky, and cleanses this whole reality - according to many of the world's religious texts, and what God told me whilst growing up.

Christ is prophesied to return secretly as "the sun & moon are darkened, and the stars fall from the sky" (Revelation 6:12-17), which is referencing just before Betelgeuse goes supernova (Isaiah 13:10, Ezekiel 32:7, Zechariah 14:7); this is explained by Yeshua, as being like the Parable of the 'Fig before Summer' (Matthew 24:29-35, Mark 13:24-31, Luke 21:25-33).

The 'Fig Before Summer' is paraphrasing the wording in Isaiah 28:4, where its timeline is 'to Close the Bed of Adultery' (Isaiah 28:9-19+20-21); where 'Saul/Sheol made a Covenant with Death about the Chief Corner Stone' (Vicarious Atonement), as to set up the Gentiles to be removed from reality.

This final Avatar is sent before the Great Tribulation comes on mankind (Revelation 2:22), where they were taught since a Child (Isaiah 28:9), 'speaking a different language to those in authority' (Isaiah 28:11-13), and 'trying to show the details of the case precept upon precept - yet the authorities will not hear', and so Judgement still comes on mankind.

According to many who've been given visions, afterwards some of us will be resurrected into the Messianic Age/Satya Yuga (Age of Enlightenment). The Messiah could already be established before the destruction, based on versions of his name existing in many of the world's religious texts as one (Zechariah 14:9, Revelation 3:12). Yet many have already chosen an Adharmic nature, where they didn't listen to the world's religious texts, and we can not stop the universe collapsing, due to the current quantum physics.

We're meant to be Dharmic, which is to be vegan, enjoy entheogens, not consume death (alcohol/meat), be altruistically Selfless (Anattā), and practise all the types of Yoga (Connection to the Source of reality):

Kundalini Yoga - Sexually aligned with the Divine. Hatha Yoga - Having a strong core, and thus physically aligned. Pranayama Yoga - Consciously being aware that everything we take in, is Divine Code. Karma Yoga - Right Action. Bhakti Yoga - Spiritual Devotion. Raja Yoga - Enlightened Meditative state. Jnana Yoga - Mental Connection to God.

Personally I've always thought as a child, that why send me before all of this, as it has made me majorly depressed for years, with what can be called Cassandra Syndrome - which is to know prophecy is true, yet we can't change what is prophesied.

Since 5-6 years old I knew Yeshua didn't go around making "I Am" (G1473 G1510) statements about himself, as he warned about in all three Synoptic Gospels (Matthew 24:4-5, Mark 13:5-6, Luke 21:8); where it's stated that many would be deceived by the fraudulent doctrine claiming to be Christ - which was stated to happen from the beginning of the Church. The Gospel of John was clearly made up deliberately contradictory, and when compared to the Synoptic Gospels it is like a Morality IQ test; it is amazing how many instead of notice the deliberate mistakes, have celebrated the Gospel of John's egotistical nature, of man being God incarnate.

Simon was called 'petros' by Yehoshua to fulfil Zechariah 3:9 & Isaiah 8:14-16 of the 'Stone of Stumbling'; where it was prophesied he'd join Satan (Saul/Sheol - Luke 22:31-32), to turn the Gospel into a Pharisaic cult, rather than about true religion of Selfless improvement.

Since I see many of the souls we've known for many lifetimes on social media globally, it does make me wonder, if we could unite all these ancient souls online; to fulfil Messianic prophecy in a more positive way, as many are already turning vegan, & don't drink alcohol, have recognise some of the potentials of keeping ancient practises, like Tai-Chi, Qigong, Yoga, etc - Energy Balance.

For thousands of years we've created a Babylonian capitalist Empire, slowly cutting down all the luscious nature to build defences; instead of plant, and harvest. Soon regardless of reality breaking down at the exact same time, we would be wiping ourselves out by environmental collapse - unless everyone worked together to reverse it.

I'm an eternal optimist, so I pray that millions suddenly notice that this is fulfilling prophecy globally before Judgement Day, and would hope that many would want to volunteer to help us try to fix the religious miscomprehensions, and then unite mankind to fix the planet‽

Plus even if that isn't going to happen, that many would want advice for what is required to be in the Messianic Age/Satya Yuga, especially as according to multiple religious prophecies globally, only those in the Lamb's (Zan's/Creator's) Book of Life are to be resurrected‽ 🤔💗😇

[eli-kittim]

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Debunked

Eli Kittim

The Latter Day Saint movement is a Christian Restorationist movement that was founded by Joseph Smith in the early 19th century. Currently, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (aka “LDS Church”) boasts 17 million members.

There is a theme in the Old Testament that is echoed in the New Testament's Book of Revelation 22:18-19. It effectively nullifies all extra-biblical sources of interpretation or additions to scripture, including Talmudic hermeneutics and 3 out of the 4 Standard Works of the LDS Church. Deuteronomy 4:2 reads:

“You must neither add anything to what I command you nor take away anything from it, but keep the commandments of the Lord your God with which I am charging you.”

Yet the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints have added additional material, such as the noncanonical Book of Mormon, which is neither authorized nor accepted by mainstream Christian Churches. According to Latter Day Saint tradition, the so-called golden plates are the original source from which Joseph Smith translated the Book of Mormon (which is now called Another Testament of Jesus Christ). Paul writes in Galatians 1:8:

“But even if we or an angel from heaven should preach a gospel other than the one we preached to you, let them be under God’s curse!”

As the story goes, Smith allegedly found these plates in the 1820s after an angel named Moroni directed him to a buried stone box. He claimed that the angel instructed him not to show the plates to anyone until they had been properly translated from their original "reformed Egyptian" language.

However, there are several problems with these claims. The notion of “reformed Egyptian” comes from a narrative in the Book of Mormon, in which it is described as the language employed to inscribe the text on golden plates. And yet, historians, linguists, archaeologists, and egyptologists have not found any substantiated examples of such a language in the historical or archaeological record. In other words, the claim that the golden plates were written in a language called "reformed Egyptian” is bogus because such a language is basically unknown to linguists and egyptologists. Besides, there’s no linguistic, historical, or archaeological evidence of the use of Egyptian writing in Pre-Columbian America!

There are many other problems with Joseph Smith’s claims. He mentioned that he received his revelation from an Angel named Moroni. The said angel is mentioned in the Book of Mormon and the Doctrine and Covenants, another LDS book, but not in the Bible. According to the Book of Mormon, the said angel added information to the teachings of Jesus. In fact, the Book of Mormon is more about Moroni than Jesus because the word "Mormon" itself is actually derived from the name of the angel Moroni! The fact that this angel substitutes itself for Christ by giving its name to a book——and given that the name Moroni is never once mentioned in the 66 canonical books of Holy Scripture——suggests that it is probably not on God’s payroll. Joseph Smith’s account reminds us of another so-called prophetess and channeler, namely, Esther Hicks, who currently claims to receive revelations from a non-physical spirit named Abraham. Thus, the LDS movement——featuring a spirit-guide who offers a new or alternative teaching THAT IS NOT IN THE BIBLE——has all the hallmarks of a cult!

It is important to note that Joseph Smith and his close associates were practicing folk magic, scrying, second sight, and divination, practices that are strictly forbidden in the Old Testament (Lev 19:26; Deuteronomy 18:10-12)! Both Smith and another seer named Samuel T. Lawrence reportedly used a seer stone to view the golden plates. What is more, eyewitnesses reported that Smith translated the golden plates not by looking directly at them but by looking through a transparent seer stone in the bottom of his hat! So, Smith allegedly translated the Egyptian not based on any scholarly knowledge or expertise but rather on psychic messages that were channeled to him.

There were allegedly 11 men who claimed to have seen the plates, aka the so-called Book of Mormon Witnesses. Then, after the translation process was completed, Smith claimed that he returned the plates to the angel Moroni, thereby conveniently making them magically disappear from sight so that they could not be investigated or re-examined.

However, there are various discrepancies and contradictory accounts. Some of Joseph Smith’s close associates accused him of being a fraud and of having “filthy” adulterous relationships. Moreover, Martin Harris, one of the alleged Three Witnesses to the golden plates, recounted his witness as a visionary experience. John Gilbert, the printer of the first edition of the Book of Mormon, asked Harris if he had seen the plates with his own eyes, to which Harris replied "No, I saw them with a spiritual eye.” In 1837, Joseph Smith excommunicated 28 members. A year later, in 1838, Smith said the following about the Three Witnesses (Cowdery, Harris, and Whitmer): “too mean to mention; and we had liked to have forgotten them." So much for the eyewitness reports!

In the same year (1838), Harris publicly confessed that "he never saw the plates with his natural eyes, only in vision or imagination." In fact, Harris openly denied that any of the Witnesses to the Book of Mormon had ever seen or handled the golden plates. As a result, Harris's announcement convinced several key members to leave the church. Over 30 years later, Harris’ account never changed. He gave another interview in which he admitted "I never saw the golden plates, only in a visionary or entranced state."

The Pearl of Great Price is part of the canonical books of the LDS Church. It was originally written as a pamphlet published in England in 1851, and was later revised and canonized by the LDS Church. The current version of the Pearl of Great Price contains several sections. One section is called the Book of Moses, which includes Smith's own revisions (i.e. the “Joseph Smith Translation” of the Bible, aka JST) regarding the first 6 chapters of the Book of Genesis, which include two extraneous chapters of "extracts from the prophecy of Enoch.” So, Joseph Smith is essentially rewriting the Bible according to his own private interpretations.

Another section in the Pearl of Great Price is the Book of Abraham. Joseph Smith produced it in 1835, and claimed that it was based on Egyptian papyri that were purchased from a traveling mummy exhibition. According to Joseph Smith himself, the book was "a translation of some ancient records... purporting to be the writings of Abraham, while he was in Egypt, called the Book of Abraham, written by his own hand, upon papyrus". What a story! It has all the earmarks of occultism! This book also maintains that God did not create the universe ex nihilo (out of nothing) but rather through a reorganization of eternal, pre-existing elements. Not to mention that Joseph Smith retranslated portions of Matthew’s gospel, a work which contains significant changes and additions to the original biblical text.

In summary, Joseph Smith added another book to the Bible which was based on a discovery of certain golden plates that no one ever saw. This was a book translated from a supposed reformed Egyptian language that doesn’t exist in the historical or archaeological record, let alone in ancient America. And later, it magically disappeared so that it could not be examined. The witnesses themselves did not actually see the plates with their own eyes. And some of them even called Smith a fraud. Joseph Smith and his companions were all involved in divination and magic, which often attracts demonic spirits. As a matter of fact, the Spirit who introduced Smith to these extra bible additions is a suspicious familiar spirit who is never once mentioned in the Bible. Taken together, the evidence strongly suggests that the LDS Church is a heretical cult that has very little to do with Christianity! Not to mention their theology which is completely bogus (e.g. that God has a physical body of flesh and bones, that God was once a man on another planet, that just like him we can all become gods, that there exist many gods, that Jesus is the spirit brother of Lucifer/Satan, etc.)!

[biblenewsprophecy]

Hebrews 11-12: Faith–Yes, the Diligent are Rewarded

This sermon is the fifth part of a six-part sermon series covering each and every verse of the Book of Hebrews. This sermon covers the 11th and 12th chapters. Dr. Thiel begins by reading the first verse in chapter 11 and covers each verse of the two chapters in this sermon. He also supplies comments from the late Herbert W. Armstrong. Dr. Thiel discusses early faithful men and women, the necessity of faith, the role of obedience, the rewards of the diligent, and the second death for those who will not obey. Dr. Thiel and Herbert Armstrong have comments about the fact that God chastens His people and that we should expect such, as well as the fact that some speak against faithful church leaders.

A written article of related interest is available titled 'Comments on Hebrews'

Sermon Youtube video link: Hebrews 11-12: Faith–Yes, the Diligent are Rewarded

Some items of related interest may include:

HEBREWS Comments on Hebrews.  Dr. Thiel goes over verses in the Book of Hebrews. Here are links to related sermons: Hebrews 1-2 & Angels: An Introduction, Hebrews 3-4: Belief & the Sabbath, Hebrews 5-7: Teach & Melchizedek the High Priest, and Hebrews 8-10: Entering the New Covenant, and Hebrews 11-12: Faith–Yes, the Diligent are Rewarded.

Faith for Those God has Called and Chosen What is faith? Can faith be increased? Are you saved by faith? What about works? Do Christians need to keep the Ten Commandments? What is the ‘faith chapter’? How do the just live by faith? Is faith one of the weightier matters of the law? How does faith come? Marque aquí para ver el pdf folleto: Fe para aquellos que Dios ha llamado y escogido. In German: Glaube für die von Gott Berufenen und Auserwählten. In French: La Foi pour ceux que Dieu a Appelés et Choisis. Here is a link to a related sermon titled: Faith for the Called and Chosen.and here is a link to another sermon Faith and Courage. Here is a link to shorter version of the written article in Mandarin Chinese 一篇关于信仰的小文章.

Prayer: What Does the Bible Teach? This free booklet contains 28 biblically-based tips on improving the effectiveness of your prayers. This is a pdf. A related two part sermon is available: What Does the Bible Teach About Prayer? and What does the Bible Teach About Prayer (& Healing)?

Mysteries of God. What is God? Is God omniscient, omnipresent, and omnipotent? Does the Godhead consist of a closed trinity or an expanding family?

The MYSTERY of GOD’s PLAN: Why Did God Create Anything? Why did God make you? This free online book helps answers some of the biggest questions that human have, including the biblical meaning of life. Here is a link to three related sermons: Mysteries of God’s Plan, Mysteries of Truth, Sin, Rest, Suffering, and God’s Plan, and The Mystery of YOU.

Christians: Ambassadors for the Kingdom of God, Biblical instructions on living as a Christian This is a scripture-filled booklet for those wishing to live as a real Christian. A related sermon is also available: Christians are Ambassadors for the Kingdom of God. Here is a video in Spanish: ¿Qué es un verdadero cristiano?

The Gospel of the Kingdom of God This free online pdf booklet has answers many questions people have about the Gospel of the Kingdom of God and explains why it is the solution to the issues the world is facing. Here are links to three related sermons: The World’s False Gospel, The Gospel of the Kingdom: From the New and Old Testaments, and The Kingdom of God is the Solution.

Beliefs of the Original Catholic Church: Could a remnant group have continuing apostolic succession? Did the original “catholic church” have doctrines held by the Continuing Church of God? Did Church of God leaders uses the term “catholic church” to ever describe the church they were part of? Here are links to related sermons: Original Catholic Church of God?, Original Catholic Doctrine: Creed, Liturgy, Baptism, Passover, What Type of Catholic was Polycarp of Smyrna?, Tradition, Holy Days, Salvation, Dress, & Celibacy, Early Heresies and Heretics, Doctrines: 3 Days, Abortion, Ecumenism, Meats, Tithes, Crosses, Destiny, and more, Saturday or Sunday?, The Godhead, Apostolic Laying on of Hands Succession, Church in the Wilderness Apostolic Succession List, Holy Mother Church and Heresies, and Lying Wonders and Original Beliefs. Here is a link to that book in the Spanish language: Creencias de la iglesia Católica original.

Hope of Salvation: How the Continuing Church of God Differs from Protestantism The CCOG is NOT Protestant. This free online book explains how the real Church of God differs from mainstream/traditional Protestants. Several sermons related to the free book are also available: Protestant, Baptist, and CCOG History; The First Protestant, God’s Command, Grace, & Character; The New Testament, Martin Luther, and the Canon; Eucharist, Passover, and Easter; Views of Jews, Lost Tribes, Warfare, & Baptism; Scripture vs. Tradition, Sabbath vs. Sunday; Church Services, Sunday, Heaven, and God’s Plan; Seventh Day Baptists/Adventists/Messianics: Protestant or COG?; Millennial Kingdom of God and God’s Plan of Salvation; Crosses, Trees, Tithes, and Unclean Meats; The Godhead and the Trinity; Fleeing or Rapture?; and Ecumenism, Rome, and CCOG Differences.

Where is the True Christian Church Today? This free online pdf booklet answers that question and includes 18 proofs, clues, and signs to identify the true vs. false Christian church. Plus 7 proofs, clues, and signs to help identify Laodicean churches. A related sermon is also available: Where is the True Christian Church? Here is a link to the booklet in the Spanish language: ¿Dónde está la verdadera Iglesia cristiana de hoy? Here is a link in the German language: WO IST DIE WAHRE CHRISTLICHE KIRCHE HEUTE? Here is a link in the French language: Où est la vraie Église Chrétienne aujourd’hui?

Continuing History of the Church of God This pdf booklet is a historical overview of the true Church of God and some of its main opponents from Acts 2 to the 21st century. Related sermon links include Continuing History of the Church of God: c. 31 to c. 300 A.D. and Continuing History of the Church of God: 4th-16th Centuries. The booklet is available in Spanish: Continuación de la Historia de la Iglesia de Dios, German: Kontinuierliche Geschichte der Kirche Gottes, and Ekegusii Omogano Bw’ekanisa Ya Nyasae Egendererete.

Is God Calling You? This booklet discusses topics including calling, election, and selection. If God is calling you, how will you respond? Here is a link to a related sermon: Could God be Calling You? A short animation is also available: Is God Calling You?

Proof Jesus is the Messiah This free book has over 200 Hebrew prophecies were fulfilled by Jesus. Plus, His arrival was consistent with specific prophecies and even Jewish interpretations of prophecy. Here are links to seven related sermons: Proof Jesus is the Messiah, Prophecies of Jesus’ birth, timing, and death, Jesus’ prophesied divinity, 200+ OT prophecies Jesus filled; Plus prophecies He made, Why Don’t Jews Accept Jesus?, Daniel 9, Jews, and Jesus, and Facts and Atheists’ Delusions About Jesus

Is God’s Existence Logical? Is it really logical to believe in God? Yes! Would you like Christian answers to give atheists? This is a free online booklet that deal with improper theories and musings called science related to the origin of the origin of the universe, the origin of life, and evolution. Two animated videos of related interest are also available: Big Bang: Nothing or Creator?and A Lifegiver or Spontaneous Evolution? Universal OFFER of Salvation, Apokatastasis: Can God save the lost in an age to come? Hundreds of scriptures reveal God’s plan of salvation Will all get a fair chance at salvation? This free book is packed with scriptures showing that God does intend to offer salvation to all who ever lived–the elect in this age, and the rest in the age to come. Here is a link to a related sermon series: Universal Offer of Salvation 1: Apocatastasis, Universal Offer of Salvation 2: Jesus Desires All to be Saved, Mysteries of the Great White Throne Judgment (Universal Offer of Salvation part 3), Is God Fair, Will God Pardon the Ignorant?, Can God Save Your Relatives?, Babies, Limbo, Purgatory and God’s Plan, and ‘By the Mouth of All His Holy Prophets’.

The Ten Commandments: The Decalogue, Christianity, and the Beast This is a free pdf book explaining the what the Ten Commandments are, where they came from, how early professors of Christ viewed them, and how various ones, including the Beast of Revelation, will oppose them. A related sermon is titled: The Ten Commandments and the Beast of Revelation.

CCOG.ORG Continuing Church of God The group striving to be most faithful amongst all real Christian groups to the word of God. There are links to literature is about 100 different languages there.

Congregations of the Continuing Church of God This is a listing of congregations and groups of the Continuing Church of God around the world.

LATEST SERMONS

[baxterkairos]

THE ORACLES, LAW, GRACE, THRONE, AND THE PRESENCE OF GOD, COMPACTED AND COMPRESSED INTO ONE

Throughout history, God’s people have inquired and sought His guidance through the oracle.

PSALM 28:2 Hear the voice of my SUPPLICATIONS, when I CRY unto thee… toward thy HOLY ORACLE.

2 SAMUEL 16:23 And the COUNSEL of Ahithophel… was as if a man had ENQUIRED at the ORACLE of God…

The word “oracle” in Strong’s Hebrew #1696 means “advise, commune, answer, commandment, judgement and decree.”

The components of the oracle include the Ark of the Covenant, with the mercy seat above it, between the cherubim (Exodus 25:21-22), signifying the throne of God, or the throne of grace and mercy (Hebrews 4:16), which exhibits His divine presence, and the law, or the Ten Commandments.

2 CHRONICLES 5:10, 7

(10) There was nothing in the ARK save the TWO TABLES which Moses put therein…

(7) And the priests brought in the ARK of the COVENANT… to the ORACLE of the house, into the most holy place…

DEUTERONOMY 10:4 And he wrote on the TABLES, according to the first writing, the TEN COMMANDMENTS…

Number 10 is hereby a code for the exact year of Christ’s return, 2026.

Taking the cube of numbers 1-10 as per digit will give a sum of 2026, the exact year of Christ’s return.

1 KINGS 6:22-23

(22) …the whole ALTAR that was by the ORACLE he overlaid with gold.

(23) And within the ORACLE he made two cherubims of olive tree, each TEN cubits high.

1 KINGS 7:49 And the candlesticks… FIVE on the right side, and FIVE on the left, before the ORACLE…

All the components of God’s oracles were being chained and compacted into one, precisely indicating that God’s presence, His law, and His grace were undoubtedly inseparable (John 1:17).

1 KINGS 6:21 …and he made a partition by the CHAINS of gold before the ORACLE…

The word “chains” in Strong’s Hebrew #7576 means “bind, fasten.”

The Ten Commandments, inscribed on the tables of stones placed within the oracle, were not only binding during Moses' time. God declares that His people must write His law in their hearts, living in obedience to the enduring authority of His commandments.

PSALM 40:8 I delight to DO thy WILL, O my God… thy LAW is within my HEART.

PROVERBS 7:1-3

(1) …KEEP my WORDS, and lay up my COMMANDMENTS with thee.

(2) KEEP my COMMANDMENTS, and live; and my LAW..

(3) Bind them upon thy fingers, WRITE them upon the TABLE of thine HEART.

Formerly, the Jews were being favored with the oracles of God as the law, promises, and covenants were entrusted unto them (Romans 9:4, 8). Nevertheless, they openly disdained Christ, who is the Messiah, and have not kept the oracles of God (Acts 7:38-39, 53, Romans 3:1-2).

The word “oracles” in Strong’s Greek #3052 means “eloquent,” while in #3051 it means “an utterance of God,” and in #3056 it suggests “computation concerning doctrine (Colossians 4:3).”

Thereby, those who despise the oracles of God likewise despise His appointed time that has now been disclosed, for He perfectly binds the set time of His return within His oracles.

God’s oracles, particularly His commandments, also encompass the entire Scriptures written by the prophets (1 Corinthians 14:37), as the gospel (Romans 1:16) provides a detailed explanation of the law.

ROMANS 16:25-26

(25) …to STABLISH you ACCORDING to my GOSPEL, and the preaching of Jesus Christ…

(26) …by the SCRIPTURES of the PROPHETS, ACCORDING to the COMMANDMENT of the everlasting God, made known to ALL NATIONS for the OBEDIENCE of FAITH:

God hereby beseeched His people to be established in His doctrine, notably His law, not to be taught again of the first principle of the oracles but rather go on unto perfection, for the time is at hand.

HEBREWS 5:12-14

(12) For when for the time ye OUGHT to be TEACHERS, ye have NEED that one TEACH YOU AGAIN which be the FIRST PRINCIPLES of the ORACLES OF GOD; and are become such as have need of Milk...(13) For every one that useth MILK is UNSKILFUL in the WORD of RIGHTEOUSNESS…

(14) But STRONG MEAT belongeth to them that are of FULL AGE…

HEBREWS 6:1 Therefore LEAVING the PRINCIPLES of the DOCTRINE of Christ, let us go on unto PERFECTION; NOT LAYING AGAIN the FOUNDATION of REPENTANCE from DEAD WORKS, and of faith toward God,

1 PETER 4:11 If any man speak, let him SPEAK as the ORACLES of God…

TO GOD BE THE GLORY!

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[yhwhrulz]

Charles Spurgeon's "Morning & Evening" Devotional for December 12

Morning

“He became the author of eternal salvation to all them that obey Him.”

Hebrews 5

Hebrews 5:1 , Hebrews 5:2

An angelic priest for men would be out of place. Men need forbearance and sympathy, hence the priests of old were men of like passions with the people. This also is true of our Lord Jesus, who is most certainly and really a human being like the rest of mankind in all things except sin that stain never defiled his holy nature.

Hebrews 5:3

This refers to the typical high priest, but our Lord had no sin of his own; he bore our sin, but in him is no sin.

Hebrews 5:4-6

He was no unauthorised priest, self-appointed and unordained. What he does has the Father’s decree to back it. “It pleased the Father to bruise him,” and “it pleased the Father that in him should all fulness dwell.” What solid ground we have for depending upon Jesus, the elect messenger of God, the ordained surety of the everlasting covenant!

Hebrews 5:7

The cup was not removed, but he was strengthened to drink it. If the Lord does not answer his people one way he does another. Jesus understands our feelings in prayer even when we cannot express them except by strong crying and tears. Experience has made him the ready interpreter of anguished hearts.

Hebrews 5:9

A perfected Saviour presents all believers with a perfect and everlasting salvation. He was always perfect in character, but his sorrowful life below gave him a complete qualification for the office of Saviour, which nothing else could have obtained. Who would not obey a Master who has undergone all kinds of sorrow that he may be able to sympathise with his servants? Who would not possess a salvation won for us by such condescending love.?

Hebrews 5:10

Here the apostle rises to a great height, and then suddenly pauses, remembering how unsuitable men’s minds often are for the reception of mysterious truth.

Hebrews 5:11

Of whom namely, Melchisedec

Hebrews 5:12

Too often we learn and unlearn. Our progress is slow, and we remain babes when we ought to be full grown men in Christ. We draw upon the church’s strength when we ought to be contributing to it.

Hebrews 5:13 , Hebrews 5:14

We should desire not only to be saved, and to know the elementary truths, but to be advanced scholars in Christ’s school, so as to handle the deeper doctrines, and teach them to others. Good Master, have patience with thy servants, and teach us still!

It is my sweetest comfort, Lord,

And will for ever be,

To muse upon the gracious truth

Of thy humanity.

Oh joy! there sitteth in our flesh,

Upon a throne of light,

One of a human mother born,

In perfect Godhead bright!

Evening

“Within the veil the forerunner is for us entered.”

Hebrews 6

Hebrews 6:1 , Hebrews 6:2

Children are to learn their letters in order that they may go on to higher brandies of education, and believers are to know the elements of the faith, but are then to advance to the higher attainments, and endeavour to understand the deeper mysteries.

Hebrews 6:3-6

If once the real work of grace fails it cannot be commenced again, the case is hopeless for ever. Hence the absolute necessity for persevering to the end. To draw back totally would be fatal.

Hebrews 6:7 , Hebrews 6:8

When all that is possible is done for a piece of land, and yet it bears no harvest it must be given up. If, after all, the Holy Spirit’s work in a man should prove fruitless, he must be given over to destruction, nothing else remains. Will any truly regenerated man ever come into this condition? The apostle answers this question in the next two verses.

Hebrews 6:9-10

But this perseverance demands earnestness on our part, hence he adds

Hebrews 6:11 , Hebrews 6:12

Those promises we shall inherit most surely, for we shall by grace be enabled to remain faithful until death.

Hebrews 6:13-20

The most solemn warnings against apostasy, and the declaration that total apostasy would be fatal, are not inconsistent with the great truth of the safety of all true saints. Safe they are, for the covenant promise and oath guarantee their security, their hope is placed where it cannot fail, and in their name Jesus has gone to take possession of heaven. Has he gone as a forerunner of those who may after all perish on the road? God forbid. Where our Head is, there must the members be ere long.

Raise, raise, my soul, thy raptured sight

With sacred wonder and delight;

Jesus, thine own forerunner see

Enter’d beyond the veil for thee.

Loud let the howling tempest yell,

And foaming waves to mountains swell,

No shipwreck can my vessel fear,

Since hope hath fix’d her anchor here.

Copyright Statement This resource was produced before 1923 and therefore is considered in the "Public Domain".

[wolint]

SPIRITUAL GROWTH

SPIRITUAL GROWTH

Colossians 1:9-10 

 

Every organism—plant, animal, or human—has breath in it, and must grow! Life is not static; it is progressive, moving from one degree of growth to another, from season to season. There is a developmental stage to every aspect of life, including the spiritual. Humanity grows at every stage of life. As believers, we need to grow in our knowledge of God and our love for one another.

Change and growth are important because they signify life and the progress of God’s people. Our relationship with Him changes us daily. God is always working to bring about change and growth in people, so that the more time we spend with the Lord, the more we become like Him. As 1 John 2:6 puts it, “the one who says he abides in Him ought himself to walk in the same manner as He walked.” It is spiritual growth that enables believers to walk as Christ did, imitating His faith, love, devotion, obedience, and selflessness.

Spiritual growth is the process of becoming more and more like Jesus Christ. When we place our faith in Jesus, the Holy Spirit begins the process of making us more like Him, conforming us to His image. Romans 12:2 admonishes us not to be conformed to the world, but to be transformed by the renewing of our minds. It is only through discernment that we avoid becoming like the world, and instead grow spiritually, regardless of where we find ourselves.

Spiritual growth is best described in 2 Peter 1:3-8, which tells us that by God’s power we have “everything we need” to live lives of godliness, which is the goal of spiritual growth. Notice that what we need comes “through our knowledge of Him,” which is the key to obtaining everything we need. Our knowledge of Him comes from the Word, given for our edification and growth.

We must grow! Hebrews 6:1-14 warns against retrogression, which leads to apostasy, explaining that the time comes when we must move beyond the elementary doctrines to deeper and higher doctrines of Christ. Spiritual growth is moving from “baby Christianity” to mature Christianity, as stated in Hebrews 5:11–6:20. This passage challenges believers to grow in their faith, listing the basic things that believers should already know as they grow spiritually, and warns about the danger of falling away from faith due to apostasy and lack of the Word.

Are you growing spiritually? How are you achieving that? Is there a marked difference in the way you engage in spiritual activities now compared to earlier in the year? Have you learned more and relied more on Scriptures than on man’s word?

Our spiritual diet must move from milk to solid food as we grow spiritually. Proverbs 1:5 says we grow and increase as we learn, meaning there must be added increase to our lives from spiritual pursuit. We must have a spiritual growth mindset so we can and should reach our full potential, holding on to the Word of God and being led by the Spirit of God.

Spiritual growth involves hearing, learning, and following. We see this demonstrated clearly in Deuteronomy 5:1-12, where the people had entered into a covenant with God, and Moses commanded them to listen, learn, and obey God's statutes. As believers, we too have entered into a covenant with God through Jesus Christ and should be responsive to what God expects. Moses’ threefold command to the Israelites is excellent advice for all God’s followers: 

- Hearing is absorbing and accepting information about God. 

- Learning is understanding its meaning and implications. 

- Following is putting into action all we have learned and understood. 

All three parts are essential to a growing relationship with God.

We must not be like the people described in Isaiah 27:11—dead wood, good for nothing but kindling. Neither must we be like the Israelites whom God called senseless and without understanding.

Our mindset must shift from worldly, carnal things to spiritual and godly things if we desire to grow and mature spiritually. As instructed in 1 Peter 2:2, we must be like infants longing for pure spiritual milk to grow.

PRAYER: Lord my God, thank You for enhancing and empowering my spiritual growth through Your Word and by Your Spirit. Help me to feast only on materials that will facilitate growth, in Jesus' name. Amen.

Shalom

WOMEN OF LIGHT INT’L PRAYER MIN

[tobie-van-heerden]

Eternal judgment.

Eternal judgment is mentioned as one of the first principles of Christ - as one of the foundation elements of the doctrine of Christ.

Heb 6:1, 2 [World English Bible] Therefore leaving the teaching of the first principles of Christ, let’s press on to perfection—not laying again a foundation of repentance from dead works, of faith toward God, of the teaching of baptisms, of laying on of hands, of resurrection of the dead, and of eternal judgment.

In the verses below we see that all will be judged, Christians too, according to our deeds. We must not sin willfully (knowingly) after our salvation. If we make a mistake and sin, God forgives us, but that must not happen often, or we might not be found worthy of his Kingdom.

2Thess 2:11, 12 [WEB] Because of this, God sends them a working of error, that they should believe a lie; that they all might be judged who didn’t believe the truth, but had pleasure in unrighteousness.

Heb 10:29-31 [WEB] How much worse punishment do you think he will be judged worthy of who has trodden under foot the Son of God, and has counted the blood of the covenant with which he was sanctified an unholy thing, and has insulted the Spirit of grace? For we know him who said, “Vengeance belongs to me;” says the Lord, “I will repay.” Again, “The Lord will judge his people.” It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God.

Rev 20:11-15 [WEB] I saw a great white throne, and him who sat on it, from whose face the earth and the heaven fled away. There was found no place for them. I saw the dead, the great and the small, standing before the throne, and they opened books. Another book was opened, which is the book of life. The dead were judged out of the things which were written in the books, according to their works. The sea gave up the dead who were in it. Death and Hades gave up the dead who were in them. They were judged, each one according to his works. Death and Hades were thrown into the lake of fire. This is the second death, the lake of fire. If anyone was not found written in the book of life, he was cast into the lake of fire.

John 12:48 [WEB] He who rejects me, and doesn’t receive my sayings, has one who judges him. The word that I spoke will judge him in the last day.

John 16:7, 8 [WEB] Nevertheless I tell you the truth: It is to your advantage that I go away, for if I don’t go away, the Counselor won’t come to you. But if I go, I will send him to you. When he has come, he will convict the world about sin, about righteousness, and about judgment…

Acts 10:42 [WEB] He commanded us to preach to the people and to testify that this is he who is appointed by God as the Judge of the living and the dead.

Acts 17:30, 31 [WEB] The times of ignorance therefore God overlooked. But now he commands that all people everywhere should repent, because he has appointed a day in which he will judge the world in righteousness by the man whom he has ordained; of which he has given assurance to all men, in that he has raised him from the dead.

Rom 2:16 [WEB] in the day when God will judge the secrets of men, according to my Good News, by Jesus Christ.

2Tim 4:1 [WEB] I command you therefore before God and the Lord Jesus Christ, who will judge the living and the dead at his appearing and his Kingdom…

1Pet 1:17 [WEB] If you call on him as Father, who without respect of persons judges according to each man’s work, pass the time of your living as foreigners here in reverent fear…

Matt 5:22 [WEB] But I tell you that everyone who is angry with his brother without a cause will be in danger of the judgment. Whoever says to his brother, ‘Raca!’ will be in danger of the council. Whoever says, ‘You fool!’ will be in danger of the fire of Gehenna [or, Hell].

Matt 10:14, 15 [WEB] Whoever doesn’t receive you, nor hear your words, as you go out of that house or that city, shake the dust off your feet. Most certainly I tell you, it will be more tolerable for the land of Sodom and Gomorrah in the day of judgment than for that city.

Matt 12:35-37 [WEB] The good man out of his good treasure brings out good things, and the evil man out of his evil treasure brings out evil things. I tell you that every idle word that men speak, they will give account of it in the day of judgment. For by your words you will be justified, and by your words you will be condemned.

John 5:28, 29 [WEB] Don’t marvel at this, for the hour comes in which all who are in the tombs will hear his voice, and will come out; those who have done good, to the resurrection of life; and those who have done evil, to the resurrection of judgment.

Rom 2:2-6 [WEB] We know that the judgment of God is according to truth against those who practice such things. Do you think this, O man who judges those who practice such things, and do the same, that you will escape the judgment of God? Or do you despise the riches of his goodness, forbearance, and patience, not knowing that the goodness of God leads you to repentance? But according to your hardness and unrepentant heart you are treasuring up for yourself wrath in the day of wrath, revelation, and of the righteous judgment of God; who “will pay back to everyone according to their works:”

2Cor 5:10 [WEB] For we must all be revealed before the judgment seat of Christ that each one may receive the things in the body according to what he has done, whether good or bad.

Heb 9:27 [WEB] Inasmuch as it is appointed for men to die once, and after this, judgment…

Heb 10:26, 27 [WEB] For if we sin willfully after we have received the knowledge of the truth, there remains no more a sacrifice for sins, but a certain fearful expectation of judgment, and a fierceness of fire which will devour the adversaries.

1Pet 4:17, 18 [WEB] For the time has come for judgment to begin with the household of God. If it begins first with us, what will happen to those who don’t obey the Good News of God? “If it is hard for the righteous to be saved, what will happen to the ungodly and the sinner?

Mark 16:15, 16 [WEB] He said to them, “Go into all the world, and preach the Good News to the whole creation. He who believes and is baptized will be saved; but he who disbelieves will be condemned.