THE BIBLE – Jesus ~ Amazing Grace!

SAVED by MERCY ~ SAVED by GRACE

NOT by Our OWN Righteousness!

Titus 3:5 Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost;

Scriptures taken from the KJV (King James Version of the Bible).

Believing is putting your trust in God and having confidence that he will fulfill his promises…GOD DOES NOT LIE!

Numbers 23:19 God is not a man, that he should lie; neither the son of man, that he should repent: hath he said, and shall he not do it? or hath he spoken, and shall he not make it good?

Titus 1:2 In hope of eternal life, which God, that cannot lie, promised before the world began;

Hebrews 6:18 That by two immutable things, in which it was impossible for God to lie, we might have a strong consolation, who have fled for refuge to lay hold upon the hope set before us:

Jesus is Yeshua (Yeshua means SALVATION in the HEBREW language) JESUS is the WORD! He is God!

Matthew 1:23 Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call his name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us.

John 1:1-4 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. ²The same was in the beginning with God. ³All things were made by him; and without him was not any thing made that was made. ⁴In him was life; and the life was the light of men.

John 1:14 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.

Throughout the New Testament, we can find instances where even the disciples or followers of Jesus struggled to fully recognize or understand his identity as the Messiah. Their difficulty stemmed from expecting a military and political leader—a King to overthrow the Romans—instead of recognizing Jesus as a humble servant, who is also the Son of God. For example, Peter confessed Jesus as the Christ but still had incomplete understanding. Even after witnessing miracles, some disciples didn’t comprehend Jesus’ resurrection until later. These examples underscore that recognizing Jesus as the Messiah often demands relinquishing preconceived notions and embracing spiritual truths.

John 14:9 Jesus saith unto him, Have I been so long time with you, and yet hast thou not known me, Philip? he that hath seen me hath seen the Father; and how sayest thou then, Show us the Father?

Thomas, a devoted disciple of Jesus, required tangible proof by seeing and feeling the wounds of the crucifixion to overcome his disbelief in Jesus as the risen Son of God.

John 20:27-29 Then saith he to Thomas, Reach hither thy finger, and behold my hands; and reach hither thy hand, and thrust it into my side: and be not faithless, but believing.²⁸And Thomas answered and said unto him, My Lord and my God.²⁹Jesus saith unto him, Thomas, because thou hast seen me, thou hast believed: blessed are they that have not seen, and yet have believed.

When a person embraces faith, they undergo a spiritual rebirth, experiencing regeneration at their core. This transformative process is the essence of becoming a believer. It’s akin to being born anew into a life of spiritual understanding and connection with God. The concept of losing salvation becomes akin to being spiritually “unborn” or unregenerated, which would necessitate a departure from faith—a ceasing to believe.

Authentic belief, fueled by the presence of the Holy Spirit, is resilient and enduring. Once one truly believes, their conviction is steadfast because the Holy Spirit becomes an abiding presence within them. The Bible’s teachings provide no indication that this profound transformation of rebirth can be undone or revoked.

Genuine faith in Jesus-Yeshua not only instills belief but also fills the believer with a profound sense of hope—a hope that transcends earthly uncertainties and anchors the soul in the unwavering promises of God. It is this hope that serves as the guiding light along the Christian journey, illuminating the path with assurance and trust in the faithfulness of God’s Word.

John 3:15-16 That whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have eternal life. ¹⁶For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.

Nowhere in the Scriptures does it state that salvation hinges on walking aisles, church memberships, tithes, or public displays of emotion. It’s a simple yet profound message: believe. This theme reverberates throughout the Bible, with over 150 passages emphasizing the power of belief. Look at Abraham—he found favor with God because he believed, long before Jesus walked the earth. Despite Abraham’s flaws, including deceit and impatience, God’s love for him never wavered, and His promise endured. This serves as a compelling reminder that salvation is rooted in faith, not in outward actions or appearances.

Paul asks two very fundamental questions:

Romans 8:33-34 Who shall lay any thing to the charge of God’s elect? It is God that justifieth. ³⁴Who is he that condemneth? It is Christ that died, yea rather, that is risen again, who is even at the right hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us.

To put it to you as simply as possible…Who will bring any charge against those whom are believers?

This statement reflects Paul’s understanding of the security and assurance that believers have in their relationship with God through Jesus Christ. Paul emphasizes that those who are justified by God, meaning those who have been declared righteous through faith in Jesus, are protected from accusations or condemnation.

Paul’s assertion echoes the broader theme of God’s grace and sovereignty in salvation. He argues throughout the book of Romans that salvation comes not through human effort or merit but through God’s unmerited favor, or grace, received through faith in Jesus Christ. Therefore, since it is God who justifies believers, no one can successfully bring charges against them or condemn them.

This statement also reflects Paul’s affirmation that because Jesus died for believers’ sins and was raised to life, he now intercedes for them before God, ensuring their continued justification and protection from condemnation. Paul’s statement in Romans underscores the security and confidence that believers can have in their salvation through Jesus Christ. It reassures them that no accusation or condemnation can stand against them because they are justified by God’s grace and Christ’s atoning sacrifice.

God means what He says and says what He means! My hermeneutics are “literal.” Take the initiative to study the scriptures yourself and make your own decisions! Pray for the guidance of the Holy Spirit.

It’s Only Going to Get Worse!

Choose Jesus – Yeshua while there’s still time!

If you haven’t read Revelation, I implore you to do so right now! It’s the only book in the Bible that tells us that you will be blessed for reading it.

Revelation 1:3 Blessed is he that readeth, and they that hear the words of this prophecy, and keep those things which are written therein: for the time is at hand.

Those of us who have “faith alone in Christ alone” have been given the Holy Spirit to guide us and we are expected to obey the command given by Jesus to communicate to everyone around us the Gospel, we must fulfill the “Great Commission”. For time is getting short…

ALL four of the Gospels as well as the Book of Acts, Jesus gives us the command to share the Gospel with the world.

Matthew 28:16–20 Then the eleven disciples went away into Galilee, into a mountain where Jesus had appointed them.¹⁷And when they saw him, they worshipped him: but some doubted.¹⁸And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth.¹⁹Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost:²⁰Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world. Amen.

Mark 16:15–16 And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature.¹⁶He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned.

Luke 24:44–49 And he said unto them, These are the words which I spake unto you, while I was yet with you, that all things must be fulfilled, which were written in the law of Moses, and in the prophets, and in the psalms, concerning me.⁴⁵Then opened he their understanding, that they might understand the scriptures,⁴⁶And said unto them, Thus it is written, and thus it behooved Christ to suffer, and to rise from the dead the third day:⁴⁷And that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in his name among all nations, beginning at Jerusalem.⁴⁸And ye are witnesses of these things.⁴⁹And, behold, I send the promise of my Father upon you: but tarry ye in the city of Jerusalem, until ye be endued with power from on high.

The Apostle John records what Jesus said on the day of the Resurrection.

John 20:19–23 Then the same day at evening, being the first day of the week, when the doors were shut where the disciples were assembled for fear of the Jews, came Jesus and stood in the midst, and saith unto them, Peace be unto you.²⁰And when he had so said, he shewed unto them his hands and his side. Then were the disciples glad, when they saw the Lord.²¹Then said Jesus to them again, Peace be unto you: as my Father hath sent me, even so send I you.²²And when he had said this, he breathed on them, and saith unto them, Receive ye the Holy Ghost:²³Whose soever sins ye remit, they are remitted unto them; and whose soever sins ye retain, they are retained.

Just before the Ascension of Christ to Heaven, Luke records this message from Jesus – Yeshua.

Acts 1:6–8 When they therefore were come together, they asked of him, saying, Lord, wilt thou at this time restore again the kingdom to Israel?⁷And he said unto them, It is not for you to know the times or the seasons, which the Father hath put in his own power.⁸But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.

Jesus has made it perfectly clear that we have been called to share the Gospel with the world! My position is this: I believe in a Pre-tribulation rapture, but I don’t want my fellowman to experience even a second of the “Tribulation”…for just as in the days of Noah, those who don’t have “faith alone in Christ alone” will suffer the consequences. When Jesus comes to take possession of the Earth and set up his 1000 year Kingdom, only the raptured believers and believers who survive the Tribulation will live and reign with Christ.

Matthew 24:37-39 But as the days of Noah were, so shall also the coming of the Son of man be.³⁸For as in the days that were before the flood they were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, until the day that Noah entered into the ark,³⁹And knew not until the flood came, and took them all away; so shall also the coming of the Son of man be.

Sadly, in spite of all the warnings given throughout the entire Bible and especially spoken of by Jesus – Yeshua in the Gospels and Revelation, the world will be both surprised and shocked when Jesus comes again!

Warning others of the imminent end of the world and the consequences of sin isn’t just a “New Testament” calling. The Prophets (Isaiah, Ezekiel, Daniel to name a few) of the “Old Testament” also warn of the end times.

Isaiah foretold the birth of the Savior Jesus the Messiah – Yeshua Ha Mashiach

“Heavenly Father is in Control”!

Have no fear…

In a world filled with uncertainty and countless variables, it’s comforting to know that Heavenly Father is in control. With every twist and turn, every triumph and tribulation, His unwavering presence reminds us that there is a divine plan at work. Even when life feels chaotic and overwhelming, we can find solace in the knowledge that Heavenly Father’s hands guide us and His wisdom directs our paths. We may not always understand His ways, but we can trust in His perfect timing and infinite knowledge. As we surrender our burdens and fears to Him, we can rest assured that He is working all things together for our good. In Heavenly Father’s control lies a peace that surpasses understanding, a strength that carries us through the storms, and a love that never fails.

Scriptures KJV (King James Version of the Bible)

Heavenly Father’s Sovereignty: Biblical Proof of His Control

Within the pages of the Bible, numerous instances unfold, revealing Heavenly Father’s sovereignty and ultimate control over all creation. Drawing on these biblical accounts, we can find compelling evidence that Heavenly Father has always been and will always be in control.

Creation:
In the Book of Genesis, we encounter the majestic account of Heavenly Father’s creation. By His divine word and will, Heavenly Father spoke everything into existence. From the vastness of the universe to the intricacies of life, Heavenly Father’s power is unquestionably displayed. This reveals His absolute control over the cosmos and existence itself.

Genesis 1:1 “In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth.”

Heavenly Father’s Providence:
In numerous passages, the Bible emphasizes that Heavenly Father intricately weaves His plan of providence through every aspect of nature and human history. No circumstance or accident can thwart His sovereign will. Even Joseph, who was sold into slavery by his brothers, acknowledged Heavenly Father’s ultimate control, stating that what his brothers meant for harm, Heavenly Father intended for good (Genesis 50:20). Heavenly Father’s control extends even to the seemingly insignificant details of our lives.

Proverbs 16:9 “We can make our plans, but the Lord determines our steps.”

The Exodus and Nations:
The account of the Exodus showcases Heavenly Father ‘s utter control over the destiny of nations. The might of Pharaoh, the ruler of Egypt, was no match for Heavenly Father’s power and plan. Despite numerous attempts to oppress and annihilate the Israelites, Heavenly Father intervened with miraculous displays of His authority and led His people to freedom. This event symbolizes Heavenly Father’s dominion over the rise and fall of nations, unceasingly working out His purposes.

Exodus 9:16 “And in very deed for this cause have I raised thee up, for to shew in thee my power; and that my name may be declared throughout all the earth.”

Jesus’ Crucifixion and Resurrection:
The pinnacle of Heavenly Father’s control is witnessed in the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Despite the apparent triumph of evil forces, Heavenly Father remained in control, orchestrating His plan of redemption for humanity. The resurrection of Jesus not only affirms His victory over sin and death but also emphasizes Heavenly Father’s ultimate control over the most powerful forces in existence.

Biblical Proof of Heavenly Father’s Control: Acts 2:24
In Acts 2:24 The scripture states, “Whom God hath raised up, having loosed the pains of death: because it was not possible that he should be holden of it.” A powerful declaration is made that provides biblical proof of Heavenly Father’s unwavering control over the events of the world. This verse, which speaks of the resurrection of Jesus Christ, serves as a clear testament to Heavenly Father’s sovereignty and control over life and death. Death, commonly seen as the ultimate finality, was unable to maintain its grip on Jesus Christ because it was impossible to hold Him captive.

The resurrection of Jesus is a pivotal event in Christianity, the foundation of our Christian faith, for it not only signifies victory over death but also highlights Heavenly Father’s dominion over all things, including the grave. It demonstrates that even death, an inevitable and formidable force, is ultimately subject to Heavenly Father’s will and control. Throughout the Bible, we find numerous instances where Heavenly Father’s control is evident. From the creation of the universe to the preservation of his chosen people, Heavenly Father’s hand is consistently at work, orchestrating events according to his divine plan. Acts 2:24 offers us a specific event, the resurrection of Jesus, to exemplify this control.

The resurrection carries profound spiritual significance, providing hope and reassurance to believers. It affirms that Heavenly Father has the power to overcome the forces of darkness, to conquer sin, and to restore life where it was once lost. It demonstrates Heavenly Father’s control not just over life and death but also over the redemption and salvation of humanity.

This verse reminds us that in the face of death’s relentless grip, Heavenly Father’s power is unyielding. It assures us that when we place our faith in Him, we can trust in His sovereignty and control over every aspect of our lives. Through the resurrection of Jesus, Heavenly Father has shown that He is in control even when we may feel the weight of uncertainty, chaos, or despair.

Acts 2:24 illuminates the undeniable truth that Heavenly Father’s dominion extends beyond the boundaries of our comprehension. The resurrection of Jesus Christ serves as a resounding testament to His control over the world. It speaks volumes about His love for humanity and reveals His redemptive plan for all those who place their trust in Him. As we reflect on this scripture, let us find solace and encouragement knowing that the same Heavenly Father who raised Jesus from the dead is in control of our lives.

God means what He says and says what He means! My hermeneutics are “literal”, however, that being said…study the scriptures yourself and make up your own mind! Pray for the guidance of the Holy Spirit…

Important Guidelines for Life Pt. 5a

Mind Your Emotions:

Every emotion that you are feeling whether it’s sorrow, joy, fear, etc should be brought to Heavenly Father in prayer.

Philippians 4:6-7 Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. ⁷And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.

It’s been determined that there’s an almost unknown number of distinct human emotions, but in this blog, I’m only going to talk about the most common emotions that we experience almost on a daily basis: sadness, joy, anticipation, trust, disgust, surprise, anger & fear.

Scriptures from the KJV – King James Version of the Bible.

SADNESS: Equated with unhappiness, loneliness, depression and melancholy…etc.

From time to time, we all experience moments or even long periods of sadness, sometimes these times will evoke a gauntlet of feelings…the ones mentioned in the heading are only a few. Because we are human and we live in this sinful world, these feelings are normal and they can and will occur at one time or another during our lives. Some people might tell you that you need to see a counselor or get psychiatric help. But I’m here to tell you that God – Our Heavenly Father can handle it if we’re willing to humble ourselves and give it to him!

1 Peter 5:6-7 Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time: ⁷Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you.

Revelation 21:4 And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away.

God keeps His promises! When we keep our eyes on Jesus and our faith and trust in Our Heavenly Father, we have a future that is beyond anything that we are able to comprehend!

Proverbs 3:5-6 Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. ⁶In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.

Sadness has been equated to feelings of darkness, but keep this Scripture in your heart:

1 John 1:5 This is the message we have heard from him and declare to you: God is light; in him there is no darkness at all.

JOY: Equated with happiness, contentment, pleasure and elation….etc

Once again, the feelings mentioned in the heading are only a small list. Joy is the emotion that we all look forward to! And Joy is the emotion that we are constantly seeking! Of course we want to feel this emotion, it’s the polar opposite of sadness! However, there are many ways to feed this emotion in the world that aren’t truly satisfactory and leave us seeking more ways to experience this feeling of elation.

It’s also true that “Joy” is one of the fruits of the spirit! So when we experience this feeling, we must pay attention to what has actually triggered it. If it’s from the Spirit of God our joy will last forever. If it’s because of something worldly, for example, there’s a new car in the driveway making you happy, it will be fleeting…you will soon need something else to replace and renew this feeling…which of course will lead you to the polar opposite when you feel like you need to feed your joy with something else from the world. Please don’t get me wrong…it’s okay to be happy with a new car or a new house, just don’t count it as your true joy in this life…cars get dented and houses need repairs. The JOY we receive from a relationship with Heavenly Father will last eternally!

John 16:24 Hitherto have ye asked nothing in my name: ask, and ye shall receive, that your joy may be full.

John 16:24 amongst many other verses are often used by prosperity preachers to convince us that things and stuff and money will bring us joy. I do believe that it’s true that God wants us to grow and do well in this life, but He also tells us in a parable:

Matthew 13:22 He also that received seed among the thorns is he that heareth the word; and the care of this world, and the deceitfulness of riches, choke the word, and he becometh unfruitful.

Jesus – Yeshua has a lot to say about riches…

Matthew 6:24 No man can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the one, and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon.

Mammon, biblical term for riches, often used to describe the debasing influence of material wealth. The term was used by Jesus in his famous Sermon on the Mount and also appears in The Gospel According to Luke. Medieval writers commonly interpreted it as an evil demon or god.

So when we think of growing, we need to think about growing in the faith, not necessarily growing our bank accounts. When it comes to doing well, I personally believe that it means that we will have a roof over our heads, warmth, food and clothing to cover our bodies and prayerfully enough left over to help provide these essentials for others. The fact is that the majority of those of us who live in the USA, have very few needs, but VERY MANY WANTS.

ANTICIPATION: Looking forward to, Hope, Confidence and Promise…etc.

When I think of anticipation, I immediately think of the hope that we have in Jesus Messiah – Yeshua Ha Mashiach and the promises of God!

God’s promises are to ALL of us! Jesus – Yeshua died on the cross for ALL sinners! But mankind must accept Jesus as their Savior and the Son of God as well as repent from their sins to reap these promises. God’s promises are laid down on a foundation of unshakable HOPE!!! Without hope we have nothing because Jesus is our only HOPE.

1 Timothy 1:1 Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the commandment of God our Saviour, and Lord Jesus Christ, which is our hope;

Titus 2:13 Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ;

Romans 12:12 Rejoicing in hope; patient in tribulation; continuing instant in prayer;

We must never lose HOPE! When we do, we are losing our faith in Jesus as well as our trust in Heavenly Father! However, keep in your mind, that not everything you hope for is the will of God and that sometimes our anticipation takes us away from our one and only true HOPE which is found in Jesus Christ.

Proverbs 13:12 Hope deferred maketh the heart sick: but when the desire cometh, it is a tree of life.

1 Peter 1:3-4 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, which according to his abundant mercy hath begotten us again unto a lively hope by the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead. ⁴To an inheritance incorruptible, and undefiled, and that fadeth not away, reserved in heaven for you,

1 Corinthians 2:9 But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him.

Our faith and trust in Jesus gives us eternal life and that is where our HOPE lies…not in the things of this world. God keeps his promises and through Jesus – Yeshua he’s keeping his promise of HOPE!

TRUST: Faith, Belief, Protection and to Rely Upon…etc.

It’s not easy for humans to truly put their trust in anyone…generally speaking man has a tendency to only trust himself. My question: how does that usually work out?

Romans 12:2 ²And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.

Sometimes we have to be knocked down to our knees over and over again before we recognize that we can only trust in God and the plans He has for us!

Jeremiah 29:11 (ESV) For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.

Heavenly Father watches out for us all the time! To put it simply, if we allow HIM , HE has our backs! He will never forsake those who LOVE HIM, BELIEVE IN HIM and TRUST HIM!

John 14:1 Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me.

Proverbs 3:5 Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding.

Psalm 56:3-4 What time I am afraid, I will trust in thee. ⁴In God I will praise his word, in God I have put my trust; I will not fear what flesh can do unto me.

The take away from these Scriptures is that TRUST is demanded of us as followers of Jesus and believers in God.

TO BE CONTINUED: Important Guidelines for Life Pt 5b

DISGUST:

SURPRISE:

ANGER:

FEAR:

Four Books Written by the Apostle John

Of the 66 books that are in the Bible, the Books of John are my favorite to read as they share what we need to know about our Savior, especially if you’re a new Christian. I’m posting this blog today for a new and dear friend. Blessings in Christ to anyone who listens to the Word of our Heavenly Father. I pray that the Holy spirit guides you as you listen to the Word.

I have not included the Book of Revelation which was also written by the Apostle John, because if your a new Christian you need to start out slow with milk and the Revelation is meat. There’s more than one reason why it’s the last book of the New Testament of the Holy Bible. You will need to read and understand the rest of the Bible before you are ready to read and understand the Revelation of John.