Who do you say I am?

Matthew 16:15 (NIV), Jesus asks, “But what about you?” he asked. “Who do you say I am?”

Certainly! Matthew 16:13-20 (NIV) recounts a significant conversation between Jesus and his disciples.

Matthew 16:13-20 (NIV):

13 When Jesus came to the region of Caesarea Philippi, he asked his disciples, “Who do people say the Son of Man is?” 14 They replied, “Some say John the Baptist; others say Elijah; and still others, Jeremiah or one of the prophets.” 15 “But what about you?” he asked. “Who do you say I am?” 16 Simon Peter answered, “You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God.”17 Jesus replied, “Blessed are you, Simon son of Jonah, for this was not revealed to you by flesh and blood, but by my Father in heaven. 18 And I tell you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of Hades will not overcome it. 19 I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven; whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven.” 20 Then he ordered his disciples not to tell anyone that he was the Messiah.

Explanation:

  1. Caesarea Philippi: This event takes place in the region of Caesarea Philippi, where Jesus engages his disciples in a crucial conversation.
  2. Question about Identity: Jesus first asks the disciples about popular opinions regarding his identity. The disciples share various views, and then Jesus directs the question specifically to them.
  3. Peter’s Confession: Simon Peter, one of the disciples, declares that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of the living God. This confession is a profound acknowledgment of Jesus’ divine nature.
  4. Jesus’ Response: Jesus commends Peter for this revelation, stating that it came from God. He also makes a significant statement about building his church on the rock of Peter’s confession.
  5. Keys of the Kingdom: Jesus promises Peter the keys of the kingdom of heaven, symbolizing authority. This authority extends to binding and loosing, indicating spiritual authority and responsibility.
  6. Secrecy Command: Jesus instructs the disciples not to reveal his Messiahship at this point, possibly to avoid misunderstanding and premature reactions.

Other Scripture References:

  • Messiah Prophecy: Peter’s confession aligns with messianic prophecies, such as Isaiah 9:6 (NIV) and Isaiah 53 (NIV) , describing the promised Messiah.
  • Church Foundation: The concept of building the church on the rock is echoed in Ephesians 2:20 (NIV) , referring to Christ as the cornerstone.
  • Keys of the Kingdom: The idea of keys representing authority is also mentioned in Revelation 1:18(NIV) , where Jesus holds the keys of death and Hades.

These passages highlights the recognition of Jesus as the Messiah and the foundational role of Peter in the establishment of the church.

Now, who do YOU say Jesus is?

For Christians, Jesus is considered the central figure of their faith and is often regarded as the Son of God, the Messiah, and the Savior. His life, teachings, death, and resurrection are foundational to Christian beliefs and the significance of Jesus and his role in salvation.

In other religious traditions, Jesus may be seen as a prophet, a moral teacher, or a historical figure with different degrees of importance. Non-religious perspectives may view Jesus as a historical figure whose impact has influenced cultures and societies.

What must we do to know Jesus as our savior and Lord?

The Christian understanding of knowing Jesus as one’s Savior is often based on the concept of faith and acceptance of Jesus Christ. According to Christian teachings, belief in Jesus as Lord and Savior, repentance, and acceptance of God’s grace through faith are key components.

Supporting scriptures:

  1. Faith in Jesus Christ:
    • Ephesians 2:8-9 (NIV) – “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast.”
  2. Acknowledgment of Sin and Repentance:
    • Acts 3:19 (NIV) – “Repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out, that times of refreshing may come from the Lord.”
  3. Confession of Jesus as Lord:
    • Romans 10:9 (NIV) – “If you declare with your mouth, ‘Jesus is Lord,’ and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.”
  4. Acceptance of God’s Grace:
    • Titus 2:11 (NIV) – “For the grace of God has appeared that offers salvation to all people.”


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Another Lie, being promoted to destroy our Christian beliefs.

UPATED 11/18/23

This came out as an advertisement on NEWMAX when I was watching NEWSMAX2 show called “The Chris Salcedo Show” on 11/18/23 and gave a link WokeJesus511.COM to purchase the book “Woke Jesus: The False Messiah Destroying Christianity“.

Now when you go to WokeJesus511.com you get the link listed below , saying get your FREE copy of Woke Jesus: The False Messiah Destroying Christianity with a subscription to NEWSMAX MAGAZINE.


HERE IS THEIR OFFER:

As an informed Newsmax Magazine subscriber, you will know immediately when you’re not being told the truth . . .

Now imagine if every single American knew what every Newsmax Magazine subscriber knew . . . and how different the country would be.

All thanks to the exclusive, breakthrough reporting revealed only in Newsmax Magazine . . .

Reporting that every single American must know to stand together and bring the false messiahs down once and for all . . .

Which means you have no choice but to join the fight.

Because if not you . . . then who?

And if not now . . . when?

Newsmax Magazine normally costs $49.95 for 12 monthly issues . . .

But in honor of Lucas Mile’s groundbreaking new book . . .

We’ll send you a copy of Woke Jesus — a $24.99 value FREE — when you subscribe to Newsmax Magazine for 6 months at a deeply discounted rate of only $12.95.

That’s a total savings of $37!

Take your first step today to save Christianity and our way of life as we know it . . .


Here are a few quotes supporting the book:

You’ll Find The Answers Here

“If you’re looking for straightforward answers about how we arrived at this perfect storm, and how we can reverse course, I highly recommend this book.”

 –John L. Cooper, Co-Founder of Christian rock band Skillet, author of Awake and Alive to Truth, and host of The Cooper Stuff Podcast

A MUST-READ!

Woke Jesus is a must-read for the modern-day Christian.”

 —Lyndsay Keith, Newsmax Anchor, Co-Host of Spicer & Co.


I thought NEWSMAX was a Moral , Christian based news service. Yet they are promoting this book Woke Jesus: The False Messiah Destroying Christianity by quote “PASTOR” Lucas Miles of the Nfluence Church.

While doing some research on the same day I found this page.

Look at the following NEWSMAX website: https://w3.newsmax.com/General/NMM/Offers/NMM-Woke-Jesus

Here is the first line on Christianity Under Siege: “Make no mistake. Their target is Jesus, and their diabolical plan is to subvert Christianity and lead Christians astray . . . pervert Bible teachings and twist them to fit their sick agenda.”

If this is what NEWSMAX states about this book, then why where they promoting this book through there advertising?

Go to the Amazon link below and listen to audio sample about this book.

https://www.amazon.com/Woke-Jesus-Messiah-Destroying-Christianity/dp/1630062510/ref=sr_1_2_sspa?crid=D7ENMJ7TOAIQ&keywords=Woke+Jesus%3A+The+False+Messiah+Destroying+Christianity&qid=1700316861&sprefix=woke+jesus+the+false+messiah+destroying+christianity%2Caps%2C340&sr=8-2-spons&sp_csd=d2lkZ2V0TmFtZT1zcF9hdGY&psc=1


WHAT DO YOU THINK?



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2 responses to “Another Lie, being promoted to destroy our Christian beliefs.”

  1. Anthony Avatar
    Anthony

    I think you might have misread something. It sounds like Max is uncovering what the “progressive left christians” are doing through his book and the quote you referenced is what the book is lifting the veil on.

    1. The only thing this was an advertisement for a book for purchase.

      Nothing was in the advertisement stated about it’s was a perversion if the Bible teachings and twist them to fit their sick agenda.

Don’t believe everything you hear.

Don’t believe everything your hear is being the truth. We need to test those spirits, to see if this is from God or the Devil. Let us look at 1 John 4:1-6 (MSG) to how we can know it’s God’s word they are speaking.

1 John 4:1-6 (MSG) – Testing the Spirits

1 Beloved, don’t believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God because many false prophets have gone out into the world. 2 This is how you know the Spirit of God: every spirit that confesses that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh is from God; 3 and every spirit that does not confess Jesus is not from God; this is the spirit of the antichrist, which you have heard is coming, and now is already in the world. 4 Little children, you are from God and have conquered them, because the one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world. 5 They are from the world; therefore, they speak from the world’s perspective and the world listens to them. 6 We are from God. Anyone who knows God listens to us; anyone who is not from God does not listen to us. From this we know the Spirit of truth and the spirit of deception.

Explanation with Scripture References:

  1. Testing the Spirits (1 John 4:1 (MSG))“My dear friends, don’t believe everything you hear. Carefully weigh and examine what people tell you. Not everyone who talks about God comes from God. There are a lot of lying preachers loose in the world.”: Comment: John starts by cautioning believers not to believe every spirit but to test them to determine if they are from God. This echoes Jesus’ warning about false prophets in the Sermon on the Mount. Reference: Matthew 7:15-20 (ESV)
  2. Confessing Jesus Christ (1 John 4:2-3 (MSG)) “Here’s how you test for the genuine Spirit of God. Everyone who confesses openly his faith in Jesus Christ—the Son of God, who came as an actual flesh-and-blood person—comes from God and belongs to God. And everyone who refuses to confess faith in Jesus has nothing in common with God. This is the spirit of antichrist that you heard was coming. Well, here it is, sooner than we thought!”: Comment: John provides a crucial test for spirits. A spirit is from God if it confesses that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh. This confession is central to the Christian faith and aligns with Jesus’ teachings about His identity. Reference: Matthew 16:15-16 (ESV); 1 Corinthians 12:1-3 (ESV)
  3. Victory Over False Spirits (1 John 4:4 (MSG)): “Here’s how you test for the genuine Spirit of God. Everyone who confesses openly his faith in Jesus Christ—the Son of God, who came as an actual flesh-and-blood person—comes from God and belongs to God. And everyone who refuses to confess faith in Jesus has nothing in common with God. This is the spirit of antichrist that you heard was coming. Well, here it is, sooner than we thought!” Comment: John assures believers that they have conquered false spirits because the Holy Spirit within them is greater than any deceptive spirit in the world. This reminds us of the power of the indwelling Holy Spirit. Reference: Romans 8:31-39 (ESV)
  4. Worldly vs. Godly Perspective (1 John 4:5 (MSG)):My dear children, you come from God and belong to God. You have already won a big victory over those false teachers, for the Spirit in you is far stronger than anything in the world. These people belong to the Christ-denying world. They talk the world’s language and the world eats it up. But we come from God and belong to God. Anyone who knows God understands us and listens.” Comment: John distinguishes between those who speak from a worldly perspective and those who are of God. This highlights the contrast between the values and teachings of the world and those of God’s kingdom. Reference: Romans 12:2 (MSG); James 4:4 (ESV)
  5. Listening to Apostolic Teaching (1 John 4:6 (MSG)): “The person who has nothing to do with God will, of course, not listen to us. This is another test for telling the Spirit of Truth from the spirit of deception.” Comment: John asserts that those who are from God will listen to the apostolic teaching, while those who are not from God will reject it. This underscores the authority of the apostles’ message and the discernment needed in identifying true believers. Reference: Acts 2:42 (ESV); 2 Peter 3:2 (ESV); 2 Timothy 4:3-4 (ESV)

In 1 John 4:1-6 (ESV), John encourages believers to be discerning about the spirits and teachings they encounter. He provides a clear test for identifying true spirits from false ones, emphasizing the confession of Jesus Christ’s incarnation as a crucial criterion. John assures believers of their victory over deceptive spirits through the Holy Spirit and warns against adopting a worldly perspective. Ultimately, he underscores the importance of listening to apostolic teaching as a sign of genuine faith. These teachings align with broader biblical principles regarding discernment, the confession of Jesus as Lord, and the role of the Holy Spirit.



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Around the World the message of God was just heard.

Sorry tuned out to be FAKE

This young man just shared the greatest message to people around the world on “AGT”. God bless this young man for sharing it.

I could not embed the video so just copy and paste in a new browser window.


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2 responses to “Around the World the message of God was just heard.”

  1. This touched my heart. We all need to be doing the same, sharing the Good News of Jesus Christ with everyone we meet.

  2. Rev William Nehrke [ner key] Avatar
    Rev William Nehrke [ner key]

    PTL

How do we disciple people that are LGBTQ+, SSA or have gender dysphoria to the way of the cross?

Discipling individuals who identify as LGBTQ+, SSA  or experience gender dysphoria requires sensitivity, empathy, and respect for their unique experiences and perspectives. It is important to approach this topic with love, understanding, and a willingness to listen. Here are some considerations when engaging in discipleship:

1. Educate yourself: Take the time to educate yourself about LGBTQ+ issues, SSA and gender dysphoria, and the theological and cultural perspectives surrounding them. Understanding the complexities and nuances will help you approach discussions and discipleship with greater empathy and knowledge.

2. Build a relationship: Focus on building a genuine and authentic relationship with the person you wish to disciple. Seek to understand their experiences, challenges, and aspirations. Show respect for their dignity as a human being and avoid approaching them solely as a project or problem to be solved.

3. Active listening: Be a compassionate listener. Allow them to express their thoughts, emotions, and questions without judgment. Create a safe space for open and honest dialogue, where they feel heard and valued.

4. Love and acceptance: Emphasize the unconditional love and acceptance of Jesus Christ. Emphasize that their identity and worth are not solely defined by their sexual orientation or gender identity but rather by being made in the image of God. Reinforce that God loves all people and desires a relationship with them.

Loving LGBTQ+ and SSA (same-sex attracted) individuals within the context of God’s plan involves treating them with compassion, respect, and dignity, just as we should treat any other person. It is important to understand that while certain scriptural passages address same-sex relationships, there is ongoing theological debate and interpretation regarding their application to contemporary understandings of sexual orientation and gender identity. However, there are scriptural principles that guide us in loving all individuals, including those who identify as LGBTQ+ or experience same-sex attraction. Here are some key scriptural references and principles:

1. Love your neighbor as yourself: Jesus emphasized the commandment to love one’s neighbor as oneself (Mark 12:31(KJV)). This includes showing kindness, respect, and compassion to all individuals, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity.

2. The Great Commandment: Jesus taught that the two greatest commandments are to love God with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength, and to love our neighbors as ourselves (Mark 12:30-31(KJV)). These commandments apply to all people, irrespective of their sexual orientation.

3. The example of Jesus: Throughout the Gospels, Jesus exemplified love and acceptance toward individuals who were marginalized or ostracized by society. He demonstrated compassion and reached out to those who were considered outcasts (Luke 15:1-2(KJV), Luke 19:1-10(KJV)).

4. The Golden Rule: Jesus taught the principle of treating others as we would like to be treated (Matthew 7:12(KJV)). This principle applies to how we interact with LGBTQ+ and SSA individuals, showing them the same respect and dignity we desire for ourselves.

5. God’s love for all: Scripture repeatedly affirms that God’s love is inclusive and extends to all people. John 3:16(KJV) states, “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” This includes LGBTQ+ and SSA individuals, who are equally deserving of God’s love and grace.

It is essential to approach these discussions with humility and an understanding that different individuals and faith communities may interpret and apply scriptural teachings differently. Engaging in respectful dialogue and seeking to understand the experiences and perspectives of LGBTQ+ and SSA individuals is crucial in fostering love and compassion within God’s plan.

5. Study Scripture together: Engage in a respectful study of the Bible together. Explore relevant passages and seek to understand their historical and cultural contexts. Discuss different interpretations and theological perspectives. Remember to approach Scripture with humility, recognizing that sincere Christians hold diverse views on these topics.

6. Encourage prayer and reflection: Encourage the person to seek God’s guidance through prayer and personal reflection. Provide resources like devotionals or books that address faith and sexuality/gender identity from various perspectives, allowing them to explore and discern their own understanding.

7. Provide support networks: Connect the person with supportive communities, such as LGBTQ+ affirming churches or Christian organizations that provide resources and support for individuals reconciling their faith with their sexual orientation or gender identity. It is essential to offer spaces where they can find understanding, fellowship, and guidance.

1. The Reformation Project (https://www.reformationproject.org/): The Reformation Project is an organization that seeks to promote LGBTQ+ inclusion in the church. They offer resources, books, and educational materials that explore the biblical and theological arguments for LGBTQ+ affirmation.

2. Generous Space Ministries (https://www.generousspace.ca/): Generous Space Ministries is a Canadian organization that provides support and discipleship for LGBTQ+ individuals and their allies. They offer small groups, retreats, and resources to foster inclusive and affirming communities.

3. Living Out (https://www.livingout.org/): Living Out is a UK-based organization that aims to help Christians who experience same-sex attraction live in accordance with biblical teachings on sexual ethics. They offer articles, videos, and personal stories from individuals who navigate their faith and sexuality.

4. The Center for Faith, Sexuality & Gender (https://www.centerforfaith.com/): The Center for Faith, Sexuality & Gender is an organization that seeks to provide a bridge between the LGBTQ+ community and the Christian community. They offer resources, training events, and conferences for pastors, parents, and individuals.

8. Books and Authors:

   – “God and the Gay Christian” by Matthew Vines

   – “Torn: Rescuing the Gospel from the Gays-vs.-Christians Debate” by Justin Lee

   – “Transforming: The Bible and the Lives of Transgender Christians” by Austen Hartke

  – “Unashamed: A Coming-Out Guide for LGBTQ Christians” by Amber Cantorna

   – “Is God anti-gay: And other questions about homosexuality, the Bible and same-sex attraction”  by Sam Allberry

9. What Verses Does the LGBTQ+ Take Out of Context?

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=joY0xMlqs0s  by Dr. Bobby Conway

Remember, the process of discipleship is personal and unique for each individual. Respect their autonomy and personal journey, understanding that they may ultimately arrive at different conclusions. Focus on modeling Christ’s love and acceptance, and trust that God is ultimately working in their lives. 10.

10. Sins in the Bible: The Bible tells us in Romans 3:23(KJV) “For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God;”, It does not matter what sin or sins we have committed, God is still out there and He wants you to ask Him for forgiveness and for you to repent of your sins. Then God said “and thou wilt cast all their sins into the depths of the sea.” Micah 7:19b(KJV) and Hebrew 8:12(KJV) “For I will be merciful to their unrighteousness, and their sins and their iniquities will I remember no more.”

“You hypocrite, first take the plank out of your eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother’s eye.” Luke 6:42 (NIV)

Here is a list of sins along with corresponding scripture references:

1. Adultery: Exodus 20:14(KJV), Matthew 5:27-28(KJV)

2. Idolatry: Exodus 20:3-6(KJV), 1 Corinthians 10:14(KJV)

3. Murder: Exodus 20:13(KJV), Matthew 5:21-22(KJV)

4. Theft: Exodus 20:15(KJV), Ephesians 4:28(KJV)

5. Coveting: Exodus 20:17(KJV), Luke 12:15(KJV)

6. Lying: Exodus 20:16(KJV), Colossians 3:9(KJV)

7. Blasphemy: Exodus 20:7(KJV), Matthew 12:31-32(KJV)

8. Greed: Luke 12:15(KJV), 1 Timothy 6:10(KJV)

9. Pride: Proverbs 16:18(KJV), James 4:6(KJV)

10. Envy: Proverbs 14:30, Galatians 5:26(KJV)

11. Gluttony: Proverbs 23:20-21(KJV), Philippians 3:19(KJV)

12. Sloth: Proverbs 18:9(KJV), Romans 12:11(KJV)

13. Witchcraft/Sorcery: Exodus 22:18(KJV), Galatians 5:20(KJV)

14. Homosexuality: Leviticus 18:22(KJV), Romans 1:26-27(KJV)

15. Drunkenness: Proverbs 23:29-35(KJV), Galatians 5:21(KJV)

16. Hatred: Leviticus 19:17(KJV), 1 John 3:15(KJV)

17. Gossip: Proverbs 11:13(KJV), James 4:11(KJV)

18. Disobedience to parents: Exodus 20:12(KJV), Ephesians 6:1-3(KJV)

19. Divorce (without valid grounds): Malachi 2:16(KJV), Matthew 19:6(KJV)

20. Unforgiveness: Matthew 6:14-15(KJV), Colossians 3:13(KJV)

Additionally, we all need forgiveness and redemption are key aspects of the Christian faith.

Sins of the Bible: Where do you stand?


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In what ways can we spread the Gospel of Jesus Christ

There are numerous ways to spread the Gospel of Jesus Christ, and the methods you choose will depend on your context, resources, and personal strengths. Here is an outline of various approaches:

  1. Personal Testimony: Share your own experiences and transformation through Jesus Christ with others. This can be done through conversations, one-on-one interactions, or in small group settings. Personal stories have a powerful impact and can touch hearts.
  2. Preaching and Teaching: Engage in public speaking opportunities, such as sermons, Bible studies, or evangelistic events. Use biblical passages and teachings to explain the message of salvation, the life of Jesus, and the principles of the Christian faith.
  3. Church and Community Involvement: Participate actively in your local church and community. Serve others, volunteer, and demonstrate Christ’s love through acts of kindness, compassion, and service. This can create opportunities for meaningful conversations and sharing the Gospel naturally.
  4. Literature Distribution: Share Christian literature, such as Bibles, tracts, devotionals, or books, with those who might be interested. Leave materials in public places or give them directly to individuals. Make sure the literature is relevant, easy to understand, and accessible.
  5. Online Presence: Utilize digital platforms to reach a broader audience. Create a blog, website, or social media accounts dedicated to sharing the Gospel. Produce content like devotionals, testimonies, Bible studies, and apologetics to engage and educate people online.
  6. Mission Trips: Join or organize mission trips to areas where the Gospel is less prevalent. Engage in local outreach, community development projects, or evangelistic campaigns. Collaborate with local churches and missionaries to effectively communicate the message.
  7. Media and Arts: Use creative outlets such as music, film, theater, visual arts, or writing to convey the Gospel message. Produce Christian music albums, films with biblical themes, theatrical productions, or write books that capture the essence of Christianity.
  8. Interfaith Dialogue: Engage in respectful and open conversations with individuals from different faith backgrounds. Seek common ground, address misconceptions, and share the unique aspects of the Gospel in a way that promotes understanding and builds bridges.
  9. Prayer: Pray fervently for the guidance of the Holy Spirit in spreading the Gospel. Pray for individuals, communities, and nations to be receptive to God’s message of salvation. Seek God’s wisdom, strength, and empowerment in all your evangelistic efforts.

Remember, the most effective approach will depend on the people you are trying to reach, cultural context, and individual circumstances. It is important to be sensitive, respectful, and loving while sharing the Gospel, always considering the needs and perspectives of those with whom you interact.


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An Easter Hallelujah

If you didn’t hear this yet, you will want to.

An Easter Hallelujah Cassandra Star & her sister Callahan

Artists Cassandra Star & her sister Callahan

What a great way of telling the story of Jesus’s crucifixion and resurrection.

Let us never forget what Christ did for us on that day He gave all of himself (The perfect lamb) for you and me so that we could be forgiven of our sins and so we can have every lasting Life with the Father.

John 3:15-17(KJV)

15 That whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have eternal life. 16 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. 17 For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved.

The Holy Bible: King James Version, Electronic Edition of the 1900 Authorized Version. (Bellingham, WA: Logos Research Systems, Inc., 2009), Jn 3:15–17(KJV).


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2 responses to “An Easter Hallelujah”

  1. Jimmy Sanders Avatar

    The death and resurrection of the Lord Jesus Christ is pivotal to our Christian faith. He’s alive and well on planet Earth.

  2. What a wonderful way then to share the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ, then through music.


Come to the one who can HEAL

Here we see how Jesus healed a man, watch the video clip from the series called The Chosen.

Jesus Heals At The Pool (The Chosen Scene)

That so many people were at the pool waiting for the stirring of the waters suggests there were occasions when people had been healed at Bethesda. There were other healing shrines in the ancient world (e.g. the shrine of Asclepios in Corinth) and evidence exists that people did sometimes receive healing at these sites. From a Christian perspective, such healings would be explained in terms of the ‘lying wonders’ of Satan (2 Thess. 2:9(KJV)). In Matthew 24:24(KJV) / Mark 13:22(KJV), Jesus speaks of false Christs and false prophets who will perform great signs and wonders to deceive, if it were possible, even the elect.

The invalid addressed Jesus as ‘Sir’ (kyrie; lit. ‘lord’, but here used simply as respectful address) and explained his dilemma: he could never manage to be the first to get into the water after it was stirred. Perhaps he hoped Jesus would help him into the water. In any case, the man appears to be ignorant of the miracles Jesus had performed in Jerusalem (John 2:23(KJV); John 3:1–2(KJV)) and showed no sign of faith that Jesus could heal him.

John 5:8–9a(KJV) Ignoring the man’s lack of faith, Jesus said to him, ‘Get up! Pick up your mat and walk.’ The very thing the man was unable to do, Jesus commanded him to do. With the command went forth the healing power: At once the man was cured; he picked up his mat and walked. Jesus’ word of command to the invalid was like the creative word of God; the word was uttered and the deed was done. The man must have felt changes taking place in his body, and, feeling whole again, ‘he picked up his mat and walked’—evidence of complete healing. This is one of those healing miracles that Jesus performed without any sign of faith on the part of the beneficiary (cf. Mark 2:1–5(KJV); Luke 22:49–51(KJV)), a reminder to modern readers that healing does not always require faith on the part of the recipient.

Colin G. Kruse, John: An Introduction and Commentary, vol. 4, Tyndale New Testament Commentaries (Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity Press, 2003), 148–149.


Final Thought

We sometimes wonder why, when we cry out for help, it seems that He is not listening, (James 5:16(KJV)). The problem is, Jesus may be asking us if we want to be healed. Just as Jesus did for this man He is waiting for our answer, what is that answer he is waiting to hear?”YES

Listen for Him………


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One response to “Come to the one who can HEAL”

  1. Pastor Jimmy and Vickie Sanders Avatar
    Pastor Jimmy and Vickie Sanders

    Jesus is still the healer, what a powerful scene that was remembered as a time Jesus healed on the Sabbath. How that someone bound for many years can be set free?




God and Jesus and angels all back me up

1 Timothy 5:21-22(MESSAGE)

God and Jesus and angels all back me up in these instructions. Carry them out without favoritism, without taking sides. Don’t appoint people to church leadership positions too hastily. If a person is involved in some serious sins, you don’t want to become an unwitting accomplice. In any event, keep a close check on yourself. And don’t worry too much about what the critics will say.


WHATEVER IS HOLY

When we examine the eight uses of the word pure in the New Testament, we see that they fall neatly into two buckets: personal and relational. This word is used to describe either personal purity or purity that is seen only as we interact relationally with those around us. 

On a personal level, followers of Jesus are called to be pure in their conduct. Paul told Timothy, “Do not be hasty in the laying on of hands, nor take part in the sins of others; keep yourself pure [hagnos—(pronounced hawg-NAHS)]” (1 Timothy 5:22(KJV)). The Greek version of the Old Testament sums up this idea when it says, “The way of the guilty is crooked, but the conduct of the pure [hagnos] is upright” (Proverbs 21:8(KJV)).

Each of these verses uses this concept of purity on a personal level. They refer to a believer’s conduct—the actions and behaviors they are to have. Our actions are to be unstained and “set apart” from the immoral craziness of the world around us. We show our purity in everything from our words to our sexuality to our honesty to our business ethics. We are to mimic the righteousness and set-apart nature of God himself.

Another equally important aspect of this call involves how we interact with those around us. James 3:17(KJV) lists relational traits that define what true wisdom looks like: “But the wisdom from above is first pure [hagnos], then peaceable, gentle, open to reason, full of mercy and good fruits, impartial and sincere.” These are all relational traits. You can’t demonstrate these traits without other people. 

Holiness is just as much a relational characteristic as it is a personal one. So which call is given in Philippians 4:8(KJV)? The verse tells us to think this way, but it’s one of those rare verses that doesn’t say whether this purity is personal or relational. In the absence of any contextual clues, combined with the fact that the concept appears in a generic list, we can only assume that the fullness of hagnos, in both it’s personal and its relational setting, must be in play. Bottom line: the call to think about “whatever is pure” means that we are to be good and relate well. These form the defining characteristics of our holiness. 

Devotional by Jamie Rasmussen [How joyful people think]


COMMENTARY

5:21 in the presence of God and Christ Jesus and the highest angels. In Greek, there is a single article before “God and Christ Jesus.” Paul was viewing God and Christ as a conceptual unit. The article is then repeated in front of “the holy angels” as a second witness to his charge.

holy angels, “chosen angels.” Israel was a chosen people (Rom 9:4(KJV)); Gentiles, in turn, became a “chosen people” (1 Pet 2:9(KJV); cf. Rom 11:7(KJV)) and believers God’s “chosen ones” (Mark 13:20(KJV)). This is the only place in the NT where angels are spoken of as “chosen.”

without taking sides, “without prejudging” (prokrima)—to draw a conclusion before all the facts are in evidence.

showing favoritism. The Greek word prosklisin means to incline toward something or someone. In the NT it bears a negative sense of bias or prejudice.

5:22 Never be in a hurry about appointing a church leader. Mē in Greek followed by the present imperative means to stop an action in progress. It implies that Timothy was hurrying to replace elders without due consideration.

appointing a church leader, “lay hands on.”

Do not share in the sins of others. Mē in Greek followed by the present imperative means to stop an action in progress.

Keep yourself pure. The word “pure” also occurs in 5:2, with respect to Timothy’s relationship with younger women.

Linda Belleville, “Commentary on 1 Timothy,” in Cornerstone Biblical Commentary: 1 Timothy, 2 Timothy, Titus, and Hebrews, vol. 17 (Carol Stream, IL: Tyndale House Publishers, 2009), 103.


Troubled times we live in

With all these things going on in the United States nowadays, it’s become a very trying time for us who believe and for others who don’t believe in Jesus Christ.

Knowing what to do and how to handle it is hard, but I’m here to say today that we are not alone, But Christ is there beside us right now, looking after and taking care of us.

I  want to share a few scriptures with you hope this will encourage you and enlighten your heart a little bit. But don’t forget that we still have work to do.

We have been commissioned by God almighty to spread his gospel to this world.

John 14:27(KJV): Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.

2 Corinthians 13:11(KJV): Finally, brothers and sisters, rejoice! Strive for full restoration, encourage one another, be of one mind, and live in peace. And the God of love and peace will be with you.

Mark 16:15(KJV): And he said to them, “Go into all the world and proclaim the gospel to the whole creation.”



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