Let’s continue.

We have learned what position it is that Paul was called to by God.

I remember when I was 18 years old at my work place a friend asked me what I meant when I told him that I had a relative who was “called of God ” into the ministry. He asked me if God called him on the phone. While he was trying to be funny I asked another friend sitting at the table who I knew was a Baptist if he knew what I meant and he said yes.

God calls people in different ways both individually and corporately. There is a general calling of God for all those who follow Jesus such as when Jesus said; ” …Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature.  He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned.  And these signs shall follow them that believe; In my name shall they cast out devils; they shall speak with new tongues;  They shall take up serpents; and if they drink any deadly thing, it shall not hurt them; they shall lay hands on the sick, and they shall recover. “     Mark 16:15-18

While Jesus knew not all born again christians had the ability to go to every person on every continent and in every country, the idea mainly is that we should witness to everyone we can even if it is only our next door neighbor or someone at the store we shop at. If each of us does our part then eventually everyone will hear the gospel. In Paul’s day the whole world had heard the gospel of Jesus Christ so technically this has already been fulfilled. Just a note about the serpents… Jesus did not promote the stupidity of snake handling in church services. Nor did He promote drinking poison to test God. When Paul got bitten by a snake when he was putting wood in the fire, he was not practicing snake handling. This was an accident that Paul had not planned on happening. But because of his faith in Jesus he merely shook the snake off his wrist and went about his business. While those around the fire were waiting for Paul to die because they knew the snake was venomous and therefore he should have died, they were surprised that Paul didn’t even catch a cold. Wow! What faith Paul had. And he was able to witness to these people because of this incident.

Then there are specific individual callings of God. Paul said; ” Now ye are the body of Christ, and members in particular. And God hath set some in the church, first apostles, secondarily prophets, thirdly teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of healings, helps, governments, diversities of tongues. Are all apostles? are all prophets? are all teachers? are all workers of miracles? Have all the gifts of healing? do all speak with tongues? do all interpret? “

1 Corinthians 12:27-30

Paul’s rhetorical questions - are all apostles, prophets, teachers, workers of miracles, healers, speaking in tongues and interpreters is quite obvious not all are or do. I have never spoken in tongues but I believe it is a vital and active part of the Holy Spirit in the life of those who follow Jesus today as well as in Paul‘s day. I want to before I physically die. Paul said he was glad he spoke in tongues more than all of the other Christians. It must have helped him keep his love from waxing cold and losing his faith during persecution. I do not believe that the Holy Spirit became dormant or lost any part of His existence ( including tongues ) of who He is after the death of the last apostle as most christians do today. The point is that God calls us individually to places of position in the body of Christ.

Notice Paul says we are the body of Christ. And members in particular. Each one of us is unique to God. God deals with us corporately and individually.

The calling of God is usually felt and acknowledged in our heart. Somehow we know what God is calling us to. The way a person is ordained in ministry as is done in evangelical churches today is merely a business transaction of placement within a church organization. A person who is not called of God to a specific position can still be ordained to that position by the church government for various human reasons. This procedure stems from the Catholic church. Yes, even though John Calvin was converted from catholicism to salvation in Jesus there still remained much of the catholic church traditional ritualism in him. This has been handed down for centuries within modern day evangelicalism. For example there are evangelical churches who issue certificates for people who are baptized. This comes from catholicism. There is much catholic tradition within evangelicalism today. It is easily recognizable. If a person really is called of God to a position then others who have the Holy Spirit in them will confirm it as the Holy Spirit bears witness of the fact. The Holy Spirit does not differ with Himself.

If we are around a person who has been ordained by church government and there is no confirmation from God’s Holy Spirit within our heart about the positioning of that christian, then there is something wrong. Obviously it was done by ‘other’ reasons. Another way to tell if that person is called of God or church government ordained, is in what he or she preaches. Jesus said; ” But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you. ” John 14:26

This is why Paul warned of people who appoint themselves to positions of ministry who are actually ministers of satan. The early church christians learned who was self-appointed to positions of ministry as opposed to those who were truly called of God and did something about it. Jesus commended them for this. In today’s christian society, nobody cares as long as they bring in money, and whatever else is convenient. While Peter is the one who is worshipped by the catholic church, it was Peter who wavered from “the faith“, whom Paul had to openly confront about what he was teaching and get back on the right track again. This wavering from “the faith” is happening all over evangelical christianity today and nobody cares. Anything is acceptable as long as it sounds good. Since the truth hits a nerve in us, the truth is rejected.

Paul said he was; ” separated unto the gospel of God, “ Again, this is a specific calling on Paul’s life. Jesus told Ananias about Paul: ” Go thy way: for he is a chosen vessel unto me, to bear my name before the Gentiles, and kings, and the children of Israel: For I will show him how great things he must suffer for my name’s sake.” Acts 9:15-16 Paul told Timothy; ” According to the glorious gospel of the blessed God, which was committed to my trust.” 1 Timothy 1:11 God for sure placed a specific calling on Paul. It is said that a christian had to be an eyewitness of Jesus Christ to be an apostle. That may or may not have been traditional in the first century early church but the fact is that Paul did see Jesus. Paul said; ” And last of all he was seen of me also, as of one born out of due time. ” 1 Corinthians 15:8

Also notice when Paul said; ” separated unto the gospel of God, “ and… ” According to the glorious gospel of the blessed God“. In Paul’s mind there is no difference in Jesus and God as he believed Jesus is God as Jesus claimed to be. The gospel of Jesus Christ in Paul’s mind is the gospel of God. There are not 2 gospels. There is only “one faith“.

Yet, as Paul did, so should we today acknowledge that even though the Trinity is One in the same God there being only one God not 3 Gods but yet the Trinity is characteristic in 3 persons with all 3 persons having each a place in the Trinity with a will, part but yet with the same will and desire and that is to lead us to God’s only plan of salvation who is Jesus Christ, the Son of God who became the Son of God in the flesh. This definitely is a mystery but nevertheless it is what the Bible teaches and this is what I believe.

Paul continued to say; “(Which he had promised afore by his prophets in the holy scriptures,) “

What was promised by God through the Old Testament prophets was; “the gospel of God, “ which is Jesus Christ, God’s only plan of salvation… the good news. As Paul continued to say; ” Concerning his Son Jesus Christ our Lord, which was made of the seed of David according to the flesh; “

The Greek words “genome ek spermatos David” translated ” made of the seed of David “ literally means come to be the offspring of David. This is very technical about the fact that as John said in our earlier study if you recall; ” And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth. “ John 1:14

This is where many people draw the line with Jesus. I personally know people who cannot accept that God would become matter. Even church companies and religions have tried to use this statement to prove that Jesus Himself was a created being and was not God who became flesh. I have read Bible commentaries that in one moment say Jesus was God and then when it comes to a verse like this try to downplay Jesus’ deity to being a mere man. Non-believers use statements like this to disprove Jesus’ own claim to be God. Even so called followers of Jesus church companies say they believe in Jesus except when He claimed to be God. The problem with this mentality is that if they reject Jesus’ claim to be God then there are other things they reject also. Some even try to emphasize 1 John 5:7; “For there are three that bear record in heaven, the Father, the Word, and the Holy Ghost: and these three are one. “ as meaning that the Word and Jesus are 2 separate persons, the Word being God who came down to earth and lived inside the body of the man Jesus…that the Word did not literally become the flesh of the man Jesus, even though John did say the Word who is God was made flesh and dwelt among us. The attempt to separate the Word from being the same person as Jesus is without Biblical foundation. The Biblical truth is that God became man and His name is Jesus.

I will continue with verse 4 in the next study.

Wayne Brown

 ” Paul, a servant of Jesus Christ, called to be an apostle, separated unto the gospel of God, (Which he had promised afore by his prophets in the holy scriptures,) Concerning his Son Jesus Christ our Lord, which was made of the seed of David according to the flesh; “

Let’s continue. I want to point out the Biblical fact that when Paul wrote that he was; “called to be an apostle, “ does not mean that Paul was given the title of “apostle Paul” or “the apostle Paul” even though many times we refer to Paul as the apostle Paul to make clear who we are referring to.

The Greek word “kletos” translated “called” means called, invited, appointed. And as I said earlier the Greek word “apostolos” translated “apostle” means delegate, commissioner, ambassador, a person who is sent.

The Greek words “kletos apostolos” together actually read this way; “called an apostle” In other words, Paul is identifying himself to this church in Rome as; Paul, a servant of Jesus Christ, called an apostle…” At least King James had the honesty and decency to italicize the words “to be” indicating to us the reader that these 2 words “to be” were not in the original Greek and therefore were thrown in by the King James translators to make the point that Paul was trying to make.

While this calling of God upon his life and some of the other disciples and followers of Jesus is a specific calling; ” And God hath set some in the church, first apostles, secondarily prophets, thirdly teachers,” 1 Corinthians 12:28 Paul never once demanded anyone to address him as the “apostle Paul”. We have media celebrity church leaders and common church leaders who gloat in being called “reverend” and some who even expect to be addressed as such. This only comes from arrogance and self-pride. Jesus said; “And whosoever shall exalt himself shall be abased; and he that shall humble himself shall be exalted. ” Matthew 23:12 And in another place Jesus said; ” But many that are first shall be last; and the last shall be first. ” Matthew 19:30

The title “reverend” Biblically was never used as a title for any human being but is meant to be an attitude toward God.. The term “reverend” was only used in exalting God, not man. “He sent redemption unto his people: he hath commanded his covenant for ever: holy and reverend is his name. “ Psalm 111:9 The Hebrew word “yare” translated “reverend” means to fear, revere, be afraid. This is because God is holy. Jesus said we are to “fear Him“. The exaltation that human beings today place on even the word “father” in addressing a priest and/or church leader of whatever sort, Jesus clearly warned against it saying; ” But all their works they do for to be seen of men: they make broad their phylacteries, and enlarge the borders of their garments, And love the uppermost rooms at feasts, and the chief seats in the synagogues, And greetings in the markets, and to be called of men, Rabbi, Rabbi. But be not ye called Rabbi: for one is your Master, even Christ; and all ye are brethren. And call no man your father upon the earth: for one is your Father, which is in heaven. Neither be ye called masters: for one is your Master, even Christ. But he that is greatest among you shall be your servant. ” Matthew 23:5-11

It has to do with our motivation for what we do and the attitude in our heart. This is why Jesus said clearly; ” But many that are first shall be last; and the last shall be first. ” Matthew 19:30

We can try our best to be a celebrity and big name in this present world but someday end up being what Jesus Himself called “least in the kingdom of God“. And yes my friend, Jesus said there will be greater and lesser people in the Kingdom of God! Surprised? Check this out! ” Whosoever therefore shall break one of these least commandments, and shall teach men so, he shall be called the least in the kingdom of heaven: but whosoever shall do and teach them, the same shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven. ” Matthew 5:19 And Paul who identifies himself as an apostle of Jesus Christ said about us as born again christians as well; “Every man’s work shall be made manifest: for the day shall declare it, because it shall be revealed by fire; and the fire shall try every man’s work of what sort it is. If any man’s work abide which he hath built thereupon, he shall receive a reward. If any man’s work shall be burned, he shall suffer loss: but he himself shall be saved; yet so as by fire. “ 1 Corinthians 3:13-15

Paul did you mean to say that there will be born again Christians who thought they were going to receive rewards that won’t?? Yes, he did my friend… ” If any man’s work shall be burned, he shall suffer loss: but he himself shall be saved; yet so as by fire. “ Yes, Paul did say; ” he shall suffer loss: “ But because salvation is by faith and not by works; ” but he himself shall be saved; yet so as by fire. “

It all has to do with motive. That’s the point.

Paul was humble and even referred to himself in this way; ” This is a faithful saying, and worthy of all acceptation, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners; of whom I am chief. “ 1 Timothy 1:15 I many times in my mind think over my life and chuckle thinking within myself, but Paul did not know me. Paul’s humbleness of attitude is clearly not among church pastoral leadership in today’s society.

As far as Paul being called an apostle, all born again Christians are called of God to some position in the body of Christ. While the position “apostle” is on the list, though including meaning an ambassador of Jesus Christ, we all are ambassadors of Jesus Christ. ” Now then we are ambassadors for Christ,…” 2 Corinthians 5:20

I will continue with this soon.

Wayne Brown

“Paul, a servant of Jesus Christ, called to be an apostle, separated unto the gospel of God, (Which he had promised afore by his prophets in the holy scriptures,) Concerning his Son Jesus Christ our Lord, which was made of the seed of David according to the flesh; “

I want to welcome those of you who are new to my Bible study. You will find that I mostly use the KJV - King James Version. I do use other versions as well and have no problem with it. I would encourage you to read my text on - “Which Bible Should We Read?”

Let’s continue.

  It is believed Paul probably wrote this letter around 58-60A.D. Paul was on his third missionary journey. He was in the house of Gaius. He wrote this while in Corinth and probably sent this letter to Rome by a born again christian woman known as Phebe. Paul wrote; ” I commend unto you Phebe our sister, which is a servant of the church which is at Cenchrea: “   Romans 16:1 Phebe was a servant in the church of Cenchrea to the women of the church. Cenchrea was located on the sea coast near Corinth. Imagine this woman, this sister in the Lord Jesus Christ carrying the letter Paul wrote to the Romans that would become so widely read and discussed, criticized and challenged by both the religious and the secular world for centuries to come.

Obviously, the Catholic church claims that Peter started this church in Rome. The Bible does not indicate that Peter even made it to Rome. If he had, surely the Bible would have said so. Paul just said about whoever started this church; ” Yea, so have I strived to preach the gospel, not where Christ was named, lest I should build upon another man’s foundation: “  Romans 15:20 I cannot with valid basis argue whether Peter started this church or not. Scripture does not even reveal to us whether the one who started the church at Rome was an “apostle”. Obviously it was someone who believed in Jesus since Paul said to them; ” Among whom are ye also the called of Jesus Christ: To all that be in Rome, beloved of God, called to be saints: Grace to you and peace from God our Father, and the Lord Jesus Christ. First, I thank my God through Jesus Christ for you all, that your faith is spoken of throughout the whole world. “  Romans 1:6-8 Paul already had friends in Rome that he acknowledges in Romans chapter 16.

The book of Romans has had great influence on people. 1.) Romans influenced Augustine in his conversion to Jesus in 386A.D. 2.) For Martin Luther, Romans was a “gateway to Heaven.” 3.) John Wesley was converted to Jesus while listening to Martin Luther’s preface to Romans.

The church at Rome comprised both Jews who were converted to Jesus and Gentiles who were converted to Jesus.

Paul for sure identifies himself as the author of this book. “Paul, a servant of Jesus Christ, called to be an apostle,”

Paul was once known as Saul. Jesus called him Saul; “ …Saul, Saul, why persecutes thou me?“  Acts 9:4

Paul was a Benjamite, born in Tarsus… in Asia Minor. Paul was also a Pharisee educated in Jerusalem. He was also a Roman citizen. Paul was once a persecutor of born again Christians, those who followed Jesus. Paul became a born again christian. Luke wrote about Paul quoting Paul saying; “Men, brethren, and fathers, hear ye my defence which I make now unto you. (And when they heard that he spake in the Hebrew tongue to them, they kept the more silence: and he saith,) I am verily a man which am a Jew, born in Tarsus, a city in Cilicia, yet brought up in this city at the feet of Gamaliel, and taught according to the perfect manner of the law of the fathers, and was zealous toward God, as ye all are this day. And I persecuted this way unto the death, binding and delivering into prisons both men and women. As also the high priest doth bear me witness, and all the estate of the elders: from whom also I received letters unto the brethren, and went to Damascus, to bring them which were there bound unto Jerusalem, for to be punished. “ Acts 22:1-5

Paul became a preacher and writer of the gospel of Jesus Christ. ” And straightway he preached Christ in the synagogues, that he is the Son of God. “Acts 9:20

As far as canonization of the Scriptures, the letter to the Romans was placed at the beginning of Paul’s letters. Probably because of the doctrinal content within. The book of Romans does the following; 1.) Romans teaches of God’s wrath against sin 2.) Romans declares the world to be guilty of sin 3.) Romans teaches that the world needs to be forgiven of sin and needs salvation through Jesus Christ. 4.) Romans teaches how God deals with Jews and gentiles. 5.) Romans teaches even though no human being is good there is a way to be righteous and that is through faith in Jesus Christ.

In studying Romans we will learn about the Biblical doctrines of election, being chosen, predestination and eternal security. Let’s not forget the Biblical truth that Israel is “God’s chosen” and most of them still ended up in hell and will. Judas, one of Jesus’ disciples was also “chosen” and still ended up in hell. In studying Romans we will learn that salvation and continued salvation hinges on faith and continuance in the faith. In studying Romans we will learn that the Law does not save a soul but faith in Jesus does.

Paul said he was; ” called to be an apostle,” The Greek word “apostolos” translated ” apostle” means an ambassador of the gospel, a commissioner of Christ, a delegate, one who is sent. If there are any “apostles” today, they would clearly be recognized in their proclamations and witnessed and confirmed by God‘s Holy Spirit in us. A true “apostle” would not be embarrassed or ashamed to preach that Jesus is the only way to Heaven since obviously he or she would be sent of God to proclaim this truth about Jesus. Since the gospel of Jesus Christ includes everything listed here; “Now ye are the body of Christ, and members in particular. And God hath set some in the church, first apostles, secondarily prophets, thirdly teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of healings, helps, governments, diversities of tongues. “ 1 Corinthians 12:27-28 then obviously a church leader who would deny or reject anything in this list would be a fraud. I will continue with this soon.

Wayne Brown

last study was posted on 10-30-09

” Jesus answered, I have not a devil; but I honour my Father, and ye do dishonour me. And I seek not mine own glory: there is one that seeketh and judgeth. Verily, verily, I say unto you, If a man keep my saying, he shall never see death. “

  Let’s continue.

  After these Jews accused Jesus of having a devil Jesus said; “I have not a devil; but I honour my Father, and ye do dishonour me. “

These Jews were offended that Jesus said their father was the devil so they tried to get back at Him.

As I have repeatedly said, the world hates Jesus…and anyone who follows Jesus. Jesus said to them; “and ye do dishonour me. “

The Lord lets people do what they want. When God created human beings He created us with a will to choose. Even when a parent is evil enough to murder his or her helpless and defenseless baby and then take their baby to a trash dumpster and throw it away as trash, God will not stop that evil parent. God allows people to do what they want. But the day will come when that evil parent will be judged by God and will pay the price for what he or she did to that helpless and defenseless baby. Human beings can have their fun doing evil in this life but there will come a time when enough is enough.

  Jesus continued saying; “And I seek not mine own glory: there is one that seeketh and judgeth. “ As I have also said repeatedly, Jesus speaks from both His humanity and His deity. In Jesus’ humanity He became a humble servant unto God and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross. Jesus set the example for us who choose to follow Him. Jesus said; “And I seek not mine own glory: “ We need to take note of this attitude that is in Jesus. “And I seek not mine own glory: “ This attitude is what can make us or break us come the day of judgment when we as born again christians stand before Jesus, when our works are tried by fire…whether our works will withstand the trial by fire and result in us either obtaining rewards or losing our rewards. We can do great things for Jesus and His Kingdom but if our attitude is not to bring glory to Him instead of us, it will count as though we did nothing at all for Jesus. This is why Jesus warned us; ” But many that are first shall be last; and the last shall be first. ” Matthew 19:30

According to Jesus, we can even lose our crown with the wrong attitude. Jesus said; ” Behold, I come quickly: hold that fast which thou hast, that no man take thy crown. ” Revelation 3:11

This is why John, the writer of this book we are study said later in his epistle; “And now, little children, abide in him; that, when he shall appear, we may have confidence, and not be ashamed before him at his coming. “ 1 John 2:28

Jesus continued to say; “there is one that seeketh and judgeth. “ Again, as I have said before, Jesus speaks from both His humanity and His deity. If you remember in my earlier study we learned that Jesus clearly said; ” I have many things to say and to judge of you: …” John 8:26

Jesus continued to say; ” Verily, verily, I say unto you, If a man keep my saying, he shall never see death. “ If you recall in my earlier studies when Jesus uses the Greek words “amen amen ” translated “Verily, verily” He means business.

Jesus is making this declaration about Himself in saying; ” I say unto you, “ Between the Greek usages of “amen, amen lego” translated “Verily, verily, I say“ Jesus is making a bold statement from His heart and He intends for the listener to hear and understand and believe, and to take heed and be warned that there is no other way to go. The Holy Spirit works on the heart of all human beings. But it is still up to the individual whether he or she will respond in faith. Jesus said clearly in this statement; ” If a man keep my saying, “ The Greek words “ean tis” translated “If a man” means literally whosoever, anyone. It is not restricted to anyone in particular. The Greek word “tis” is an enclitic indefinite pronoun and literally means whosoever, anyone. Another clear cut case in Jesus’ own words to show that no human being is predestined before birth to be saved and no human being is predestined before birth to make it to Heaven and no human being is predestined before birth to go to eternal hell, as Mr. John Calvin taught. According to John Calvin’s theory of election and predestination, all Jews would be in Heaven and even Judas, one of Jesus’ 12 disciples would be in Heaven at this moment…which is clearly not the case even though the Jews and Judas were also “chosen“. The myth that some people are predestined to be saved before birth is actually a manmade target for a person’s faith that is clearly not of “the faith” that Paul taught. Those who follow churches that teach John Calvin’s “predestination and election” theory are putting their faith in being predestined rather than in Jesus. Jesus clearly addressed whosoever and anyone in this declaration He made in this verse. Any interpretation contrary to what Jesus said is a bold faced lie and is not of “the faith“.

  I’m not finished with this statement Jesus made. I will continue with it in the next study.

We will learn from Jesus’ statement here in this verse that there is another devastating blow to another theory of John Calvin and that is his theory of “eternal security” known today as the “once saved, always saved” doctrinal church companies which comprise about 99% of evangelical christianity.

You might want to read this study that I do since something Jesus said in this verse will surprise you.

Wayne Brown

last study was posted on 10-24-09 ” Then answered the Jews, and said unto him, Say we not well that thou art a Samaritan, and hast a devil? “

Let’s continue.

Have you ever wondered why these Jews called Jesus a Samaritan? Jews hated Samaritans…just like they hate the Lord Jesus. If you remember my study I did on the Samaritan woman at the well whom Jesus sat and talked with, we learned that Jesus’ disciples had a problem with this. Knowing how Jews hated Samaritans, the woman asked Jesus; “How is it that thou, being a Jew, askest drink of me, which am a woman of Samaria? ( and then the writer John added…) for the Jews have no dealings with the Samaritans.”     John 4:9 Even though many Samaritans followed Judaism and even knew the prophecies concerning the Messiah as this Samaritan woman did, the Jews still excommunicated them from the fellowship…much like world religions and many evangelical churches do today with certain people they do not like. These Jews meant it to be an insult to Jesus in calling Him a Samaritan. Jesus returned their criticism one day when He told them a story about “the good Samaritan” in Luke 10:30-37. It so happened that it was a Jewish priest and a Levite that thought they were too good to help the victim by the roadside and left him to die. This story is much to be compared to “holier than thou do-gooder” church goers of today.

It is interesting that there were actually more reasons than the fact that this woman was a Samaritan that it bothered Jesus’ disciples that He was talking to her.. 1.) for one obviously, she was a Samaritan 2.) she was divorced 3.) she was a woman This account of Jesus’ life shows us the difference in Jesus and world religions and most of evangelical christianity today as world religions and most of evangelical churches today would not let this woman inside the door of the church… except for her financial support. In many cases with churches today, money talks even in this situation. It is not that they love divorced people (like Jesus did this Samaritan woman who had multiple marriages) but rather because like these Jews who hated Samaritans, they have condemned divorced people to hell because they are divorced. The reality is that they see a financial benefit in having even divorced people in the church…especially in a tough economy.

In an earlier study I discussed the problem between Jews and Samaritans going back in history. These Jews telling Jesus that He had a demon in Him is quite interesting as well. In another discussion these Jews said; ” …This fellow doth not cast out devils, but by Beelzebub the prince of the devils.” Matthew 12:24 The name “Beelzebub” is of Chaldee origin and means ‘dung god’. It was used as a name for satan. In today’s method of talk (colorful metaphors) it would be a four letter word most frequently used in cursing. Jesus told these Jews something that is common sense knowledge or at least should be to a sane person. Jesus told them a nation divided against itself cannot stand and neither can satan last if divided against himself. So why on earth would a person full of the devil knowingly cast out other devils out of other people? And Jesus went further by calling them on their practice of exorcism. Jesus said; “And if I by Beelzebub cast out devils, by whom do your children cast them out? Therefore they shall be your judges.” Matthew 12:27 Josephus wrote about Pharisees practicing exorcism. Ant. VII, 2-5. It is interesting that Jesus said to these Jews; “Therefore they shall be your judges.”

Let’s remember a fact about hypocrites and being hypocritical. Jesus clearly warned; ” But I say unto you, That every idle word that men shall speak, they shall give account thereof in the day of judgment. For by thy words thou shalt be justified, and by thy words thou shalt be condemned. “   Matthew 12:36-37 I will continue with verse 49 in the next study.

Wayne Brown

last study was posted 10-17-09

” And because I tell you the truth, ye believe me not. Which of you convinceth me of sin? And if I say the truth, why do ye not believe me? He that is of God heareth God’s words: ye therefore hear them not, because ye are not of God. “

Let’s continue.

I want to end on this passage discussing when Jesus said; “He that is of God heareth God’s words: ye therefore hear them not, because ye are not of God. “

The Greek word “ek” translated “of” is a primary preposition denoting origin. It means from, out of.

This is why Jesus said to Nicodemus; ” Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God. ” John 3:3

This is a spiritual rebirth of our spirit into God’s family as we are adopted into God’s family through the precious Holy Spirit of God. We do not have to speak in “tongues” to be “born again“. The thief on the cross did not speak in “tongues” and Jesus still told him; “Today, you will be with me in paradise.” Luke 23:43 If we want to speak in “tongues” , that experience will come later…if we want it. To reject “tongues“, since it is a major part of God’s Holy Spirit and to say it went out with the death of the last apostle, and to say “tongues” is of the devil or of man or even to suppress it because of public shame and embarrassment is what Jesus called “blasphemy and speaking against the Holy Spirit” and Jesus warned that this sin of blasphemy will not be forgiven in this life nor in the life to come.

As Jesus, the Holy Spirit also never changes and He is the same yesterday, today and forever…just as Jesus is, while Jesus and the Holy Spirit and the Father are the Holy Trinity. The Holy Spirit never became dormant nor did any part of His existence become dormant nor did He change in His works in the Trinity after the death of the last apostle… as most evangelical churches today claim.

Nor do we have to be baptized in water to be saved. Clearly, the thief did not have time to be baptized in H20…obviously, since he was dying. Water baptism is an act of following Jesus if we unlike the thief, continue to live here on earth after we are “born again“. H20 does not save us and get us into Heaven. If you believe that water saves you then you are not of “the faith” because “the faith” is based on Jesus, not H20.

Nor do we have to do good works to get saved and to be “born again“. Clearly, the thief did not have time to do good works, to pay tithes, to join a church and so on… And Jesus still said to him; “Today, you will be with me in paradise.“ Luke 23:43

So, when Jesus said to these Jews; “He that is of God heareth God’s words: ye therefore hear them not, because ye are not of God. “ Jesus was identifying people who are “of God” and those who “are not of God.“

The world says that all human beings are “children of God” but Jesus says not all human beings are children of God. Jesus said that only those who are as the Greek word says “ek”- translated “of” meaning originated from, out of, are actual children of God. Not only this, those of us who are children of God hear God’s words. The Greek word “rhemata” translated “words” means an utterance, and can be both individually and collectively concerning a matter or topic.

God talks to His children. Many claim they have been “told by God” to do this or that. While this can happen on an individual basis, we must be careful when we claim God told us something, especially if we claim God told us to say this or that to someone else. There are 2 main hidden and impure motives that can be involved: 1.) An attempt to convince someone that we are right and they are wrong 2.) Self-exaltation

There are other motives in this but know for sure it is our motive for doing what we do that will be tried and tested when we all stand before the judgment seat of Christ some day. Always remember this…just like any human being resents being misquoted and misrepresented, so does God. If we make a claim that God spoke to us and in reality God did not tell us this, we will give answer for this claim we make.

However, God does talk to us. But it will coincide with the Bible when He does. There are no “other gospels” out there nor are there any other secret books with a claim to be written or inspired of God. John, the writer of this book we are studying said later in his epistle; ” They are of the world: therefore speak they of the world, and the world heareth them. We are of God: he that knoweth God heareth us; he that is not of God heareth not us. Hereby know we the spirit of truth, and the spirit of error. “   1 John 4:5-6

If someone claims to follow Jesus and still listens to a church pastor who tells him to pray to any of Jesus’ disciples or Mary for penance is not “of God“. No follower of Jesus in the Bible at anytime prayed to any of Jesus’ disciples or Mary. This is putting our faith in Jesus’ disciples and Mary…not in Jesus! It is the same as putting our faith in H20 rather than Jesus. It is the same as putting our faith in good works rather than Jesus. The thief on the cross had not time whatsoever to do any of these things and Jesus still told him; “Today, you will be with me in paradise.” Luke 23:43

Notice John said in this passage; ” Hereby know we the spirit of truth, and the spirit of error. “ Did John say; “the spirit of error. “ Yes, he sure did.

Any teaching outside of the Bible or that has been added to the Bible claiming to be a part of “God’s words” is what John called; “the spirit of error. “ Anyone who heeds or listens to; “the spirit of error. “ is ” not of God“. And anyone who hears “God’s words” and rejects them is also ” not of God “.

I will continue on with verse 48 in the next study.

Wayne Brown

last study was posted 10-10-09 “And because I tell you the truth, ye believe me not. Which of you convinceth me of sin? And if I say the truth, why do ye not believe me? He that is of God heareth God’s words: ye therefore hear them not, because ye are not of God. “ Let’s continue.

Jesus told these Jews; “And because I tell you the truth, ye believe me not. “

The Greek word “hoti” translated “ because” means causatively because, as concerning that. In other words, Jesus is declaring that simply because He is telling them the truth, they refuse to believe Him. Again in other words, even though they did think Jesus was a liar, it is not because they distrusted Him or thought He was a liar that they did not believe Him…it is because Jesus spoke truth that they did not believe Him.

People in general despise truth.

In the corruption of our justice system here in America, a criminal for conscience sake can plead and confess to being guilty of a crime and it is rejected. There can be a room full of witnesses and he is still considered only an “alleged” criminal.

Why?

Because it is in the nature of human beings to hate truth.

Our court system would rather hear a non-guilty plea because it will secure people’s tax dollars for jobs for the employees involved. Smart business practice yes…but deceitful.

This is one reason criminals are let out because they know they will commit another crime, even murder and the system can again secure more jobs for the employees.

It has always amazed me how people get so upset and on the defensive when they are called a “liar” when they always prefer to tell and hear lies over the truth. A liar is most upset when called a liar. It hits a nerve.

Someone once said -”My minds made up…don’t confuse me with facts”. When people have itching ears as Paul described, they will follow even what they know deep down inside is a lie. This is like people who watch television infomercials. They wish that what they are being told could be true but they know better and still listen to it…especially when it comes to get rich quick schemes on television. They know it is too good to be true but out of desperation they are willing to take a chance. They refuse to hear someone tell them it might not work. That is not what they want to hear. People generally will not choose to follow truth. So, because Jesus spoke truth to these Jews is the very reason they rejected Him. Again, it is hate motivated. Jesus said; ” At that time many will turn away from the faith and will betray and hate one another,” Matthew 24:10 N.I.V. The common mentality today is to accept a church leader who teaches that Jesus is one of multiple ways to Heaven. This is compromising “the faith” and conforming to the world. Anyone who chooses to believe what Jesus said is hated. Just recently I had a friend from an evangelical church which probably used to believe Jesus at His word who quoted the Bible verse to me…”God is willing that no one should perish” in her feeble attempt to contradict Jesus who said there is an eternal hell and that more people will go to eternal hell than will make it to Heaven. She, like many other evangelical Christians today, think that God is too good to let anyone actually go to hell. This is in reality saying Jesus is a liar as these Jews were doing. I told her, “yeah, it isn’t God’s will that anyone go to hell, as that is why He died for us…but just as it isn’t your ‘will’ as a mother that your children turn out to be druggies and alcoholics does not mean that they won’t”. Sadly, they have.

Now she understands what it means when it says “God is willing that no one should perish” - even though it is God’s will that not anyone perish, it does not mean it won’t happen…as with her children. Jesus continued to say; ” Which of you convinceth me of sin? And if I say the truth, why do ye not believe me? “ The Greek word “elegchei” translated ” convinceth” means tell a fault, rebuke, convict. Jesus is asking them who would dare or even could prove that He committed sin, including the sin of lying. If you remember in an earlier study we learned that the thief on the cross confirmed that Jesus is innocent; “And we indeed justly; for we receive the due reward of our deeds: but this man hath done nothing amiss. ” Luke 23:41

Jesus asked many rhetorical questions. ” And if I say the truth, why do ye not believe me? “ Jesus already told them it is because they hate truth is the reason they did not believe Him. Many times Jesus wants us to say with our own mouth what we think. Jesus said on one occasion; ” But what think ye? …” Matthew 21:28 Another occasion Jesus asked Peter; ” …What thinkest thou, Simon…” Matthew 17:25

  Jesus continued to say; ” He that is of God heareth God’s words: ye therefore hear them not, because ye are not of God. “ In the Greek it reads literally…”The one being of God the words of God hears; therefore you not hear, because of God you are not.”

While there is much controversy in today’s society both within the secular realm and the religious realm as to what is “God’s Word” the truth still remains in what Jesus said; ” He that is of God heareth God’s words: ye therefore hear them not, because ye are not of God. “ To be “of God” requires a person to be as Jesus said; “born again“ Being of God is not earned by doing good works. Being of God is a status received only as a gift from God in response to a repentant heart and faith in God’s only plan of salvation…Jesus. Being of God includes believing in what Paul called, “the faith.” “The faith” is clearly in and all about God’s only plan of salvation…Jesus. Jesus made claims about Himself and to be of God and in “the faith” means that we believe Jesus at His word entirely. If there is anything or any part of Jesus’ words that an evangelical born again Christian would now reject makes him or her, “not of God“. To be of God is to believe in Jesus and everything He said…not only bits and pieces of what He said. This is why so many Christians today follow false teachings. They have now questioned what Jesus said and no longer believe everything He said.

I will continue with this verse soon. Wayne Brown

 

previous study was posted 10-9-09

Let’s continue.

Jesus said in verse 44; ” You are of your father the devil, and the lusts of your father you will do. He was a murderer from the beginning, and abode not in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he speaketh a lie, he speaketh of his own; for he is a liar, and the father of it.” John 8:44

If I had been standing there and Jesus said this to me I would probably have been so humiliated I would have had to hide in shame. But not these Jews. Have you ever insulted a person or tried to correct someone for their good and they never got the message? This mentality is usually form a person who never thinks he or she has done anything wrong and that it is always someone else who does wrong. A person who goes around saying people should practice what they preach are usually the ones who never have practiced what they preach. They think everyone else will be judged by God…not them, since in their mind they have never done anything wrong. They will be in for a big shock when they physically die and find themselves standing before the judgment seat of God. Solomon said; ” Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God, and keep His commandments: for this is the whole duty of man. For God shall bring every work into judgment, with every secret thing, whether it be good, or whether it be evil.” Ecclesiastes 12:13-14 Some of you will say, ” But this is Old Testament… God has redeemed us from the Law…” Oh really??? Check this out! Paul said; ” For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ; that every one may receive the things done in his body, according to that he hath done, whether it be good or bad.” 2 Corinthians 5:10 Paul, did you say good or bad? Yes he did! ” whether it be good or bad” Ouch! That hurts! And you think what you have gossiped about other people at the dinner table will never be found out? Jesus said; ” For there is nothing covered, that shall not be revealed; neither hid, that shall not be known. Therefore, whatsoever you have spoken in darkness shall be heard in the light; and that which you have spoken in the ear in closets shall be proclaimed upon the housetops.” Luke 12:2-3 Jesus, did you mean what I said to someone else about somebody will be made public? Yes Jesus did! “and that which you have spoken in the ear in closets shall be proclaimed upon the housetops.” And here is another New Testament warning Jesus said; ” But I say unto you, That every idle word that men shall speak, they shall give account thereof in the day of judgment. For by thy words thou shalt be justified, and by thy words thou shalt be condemned.” Matthew 12:36-37 By our words we shall be justified?? But Paul said we are justified by faith and according to John Calvin and all his descendent church companies today, our status with the Lord can never change nor is it possible that it can change even by our own words, which is contrary to what Jesus said. ” For by thy words thou shalt be justified, and by thy words thou shalt be condemned.” So, somebody is lying.

Jesus told these Jews; ” You are of your father the devil, and the lusts of your father you will do. He was a murderer from the beginning, and abode not in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he speaketh a lie, he speaketh of his own; for he is a liar, and the father of it.”

These Jews claimed to be children of God, of Abraham but Jesus told them they are children of the devil. And the desire of their father satan they also wish to do. One of many important points in this verse is when Jesus said about satan; “When he speaketh a lie, he speaketh of his own; for he is a liar, and the father of it.” Paul warned born again Christians; ” For such are false apostles, deceitful workers, transforming themselves into the apostles of Christ. And no marvel; for satan himself is transformed into an angel of light. Therefore it is no great thing if his ministers also be transformed as the ministers of righteousness; whose end shall be according to their works.” 2 Corinthians 11:13-15 Paul referred to self appointed pastors and ministers pretending to be called of God. These self appointed ministers and pastors are not necessarily outwardly evil people since Paul calls them; “ministers of righteousness” They are self appointed church leaders who deceive people…God’s people. The world is already deceived. Satan does not need to go after who he already has. Someone made this statement- “Patience is a secret weapon that forces deception to reveal itself. “ The problem with this concept is that according to the Bible deception is already revealed. But people still choose to follow it even knowing it is contrary to God’s word. Even when pastors and church leaders raise money to give to the poor and needy and promotes kind deeds, they can still be what Paul called false apostles who transform themselves, self appoint themselves to the position of ministry and can even appear to be “ministers of righteousness”. Even with the deception revealed, people will still follow them to the end. Why? Because Paul and Peter described them as people with “itching ears”, willingly giving heed to seducing doctrines of devils. They clearly know what they are following and that it is contrary to the word of God but still choose to follow it because it is convenient. This is why we have so many churches today. People follow what they want to hear. The parts of the Bible they have trouble with they exempt from Scripture, willingly. They know it is there but as one pastor said to his audience…”I have trouble with this verse.” and then pretended it wasn’t there. This mentality is why God said He will some day; ” …because they received not the love of the truth, that they might be saved. And for this cause God shall send them strong delusion, that they should believe a lie: That they all might be damned who believed not the truth, but had pleasure in unrighteousness.” 2 Thessalonians 2:10-12 This is a choice they made for themselves and God granted them their wish. Jesus told the church of Ephesus; “…and thou has tried them which say they are apostles, and are not, and hast found them liars:” Revelation 2:2 Someone asked me if I see a difference in today’s christian as opposed to the first century christian. There are 2 major things I see different today. 1.) I rarely come across a born again christian who would love for Jesus to return today. They might feel this way when someone comes down with an illness, or something bad happens…but when things get better, they go back to wishing Jesus would delay His coming. If you recall…Jesus said He will have servants who will be like this. The first century christian including Paul, looked forward to Jesus’ return. Not Christians in today’s society.

2.) No christian in today’s society even cares if a church leader is preaching a false doctrine or not. As long as he is tickling the ears of the listener, they will follow him to the end.

As long as he and/or his ministry is a financial benefit to another christian ministry, the fact that he is preaching a false doctrine is overlooked…for the money and whatever other benefit he brings to the christian organization or ministry.

Christians in the first century did care if a church leader was a false leader.

Here are 2 examples; a.) For those of you outside of the USA we have a TV talk show host here in America by the name of Larry King. He invited Joel Osteen on his show and directly asked Joel Osteen this question- “Can anyone outside of Jesus make it to Heaven?” Now, I remember Joel’s dad who would have answered this question Biblically because he believed Jesus at His word. I do not know what happened to Joel. His response to Larry King was- “I don’t know Larry. Hindus love God too. Maybe God has another plan for them.” This makes Jesus out to be a liar who clearly said; “I am the way, the truth, and the life: no one can come to the Father except by me.” John 14:6

b.) Rick Warren was asked the very same question by Mr. Colmes on the Fox News show Hannity and Colmes. Rick Warren’s response was zilch. He actually refused to answer Mr. Colmes. Rick did say though - “I don’t know how a person couldn’t.” Both Larry King and Mr.Colmes are smart and they both know what the born again christian’s “faith” is. This is why they put these 2 church leaders on the spot in asking them this question. Both Rick and Joel are good people. You remember; “ministers of righteousness”. But both Rick and Joel were either too ashamed of Jesus to answer the question or they do not believe it themselves. Yet, both of these men are highly esteemed and will be followed to the end. Their deceptive interpretation of what Jesus made clear in that Rick and Joel will publicly say, for me Jesus is a way to Heaven but God might have alternative plans for those who do not believe in Jesus…well. This obvious deception is such that no patience as a secret weapon is needed to reveal deception. This compromise of what Paul called “the faith” is being considered by people within other church companies such as the Assemblies of God which endorse Rick Warren. I personally am aware of this.

I would welcome hearing both Rick Warren and Joel Osteen say on national television that Jesus did not lie when He said that He is the only way to Heaven.

I will continue soon.

Wayne Brown

Last study was posted on 10-03-09

“Jesus said unto them, If God were your Father, ye would love me: for I proceeded forth and came from God; neither came I of myself, but he sent me.

Why do ye not understand my speech? even because ye cannot hear my word.

Ye are of your father the devil, and the lusts of your father ye will do. He was a murderer from the beginning, and abode not in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he speaketh a lie, he speaketh of his own: for he is a liar, and the father of it. “

Let’s continue.

We have learned that Jesus came from God.

Jesus also said;

” neither came I of myself, but he sent me. “

If you recall in an earlier study we learned that Jesus mentioned already.

“I am come in my Father’s name, and ye receive me not: if another shall come in his own name, him ye will receive. ” John 5:43

Jesus no doubt had in mind the future antichrist when He said:

“if another shall come in his own name, him ye will receive. “

Certainly this will be the case when it does happen.

The Jews will receive the antichrist as their Messiah and then realize 3 and1/2 years into the 7 year peace treaty that they made a terrible mistake.

Jesus also said later;

“and I am not come of myself, but he that sent me is true, whom ye know not. ” John 7:28

As I have said many times before, to understand everything Jesus said we must understand and believe that Jesus is both God and man¡¦just as He claimed. If we cannot accept Jesus” claim, then we will never understand the fact that He speaks from both His deity and His humanity. I know this is too much for most folk to believe.

I spoke with a friend recently who admitted to me that he thinks Jesus is a liar.

Well, at least my friend is honest in his feelings. I respect a person who, rather than try to argue with me as to why we should not believe Jesus at His word and attempt to use other parts of the Bible to twist and distort the things Jesus said into so called contradictions as they have concluded to be contradictions, would just simply go ahead and tell me that they think Jesus is a liar and be done with it. Bible critics twist the Bible around and this is why world religions re-write their own ‘bible’ calling it     ” another gospel “. 

I told my friend that many people are like him in that they also do not believe Jesus and what He claimed. We either believe Jesus or we do not.

There are religions established and exist for the self pleasure and self satisfaction of making Jesus out to be a liar.

Why? Because like the rest of the world, they are ¡°Jesus haters”.  However, they also hate God whom they believe exists. This is evidenced in the simple fact that they themselves have decided what will happen to them after physical death¡¦ not what God has to say about what will happen to them.

Jesus said anyone who follows Him and believes in Him will be hated by the world.

If we choose to believe Jesus¡¯ claim to be both God and man then we can understand Him when He says things like;

“and I am not come of myself ” John 7:28

“neither came I of myself, ” John 8:42

And as a muslim who asked me -¡± if Jesus is God as He claimed to be then why would He say:

“And at the ninth hour Jesus cried with a loud voice, saying, Eloi, Eloi, lama sabachthani? which is, being interpreted, My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me?”Mark 15:34

Accepting Jesus as God who became man helps us to understand that as a man Jesus became a servant unto God the Father, setting the example in how we are to live.

In His flesh Jesus became obedient;

“Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus:

Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God:

But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men:

And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross.

Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name:

That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth;

And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord,

to the glory of God the Father. ” Philippians 2:5-11

Even though Jesus is God, the plan for salvation is meant to be¡¦God sent His only begotten Son¡¦

“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.

For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved. ” John 3:16-17

Since most folk believe in God or at least God’s existence or some sort of a god - God’s plan for our salvation and entrance to Heaven is to be by believing in God’s Son Jesus as being the only way to Heaven¡¦not one of many ways.

Jesus continued to say to these Jews;

“Why do ye not understand my speech? even because ye cannot hear my word. “

Jesus already knew why they did not believe Him but many times would ask a question to get a response out of them.

He answers His own question;

“even because ye cannot hear my word. “

The Greek word dunasthe translated ” ye cannot ” means simply not able or cannot.

Have you ever tried to tell someone something and they just won’t listen? This is how these Jews were and are today as well as most of the population of the world.

God, whom they claim to believe in has told them already that it is through His Son Jesus that He will speak to us. This is why Paul said later;

“So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God. ” Romans 10:17

And which, by the way, in the Greek “Christ” is written in the text.

The Greek literally reads;

“Then faith is from hearing and the hearing through a word of “Christ.”

Martin Luther did not translate it “Christ¡ nor did the King James translators do this because they understood Jesus is God and it would not matter if they ended this verse with God or “Christ”.

The writer of Hebrews confirms all this by saying;

“God, who at sundry times and in divers manners spake in time past unto the fathers by the prophets,

Hath in these last days spoken unto us by his Son, ” Hebrews 1:1-2

I will continue with this soon.

Wayne Brown