I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing. - John 15:5
And the same day, when the even was come, he saith unto them, Let us pass over unto the other side. - Mark 4:35
...weeping may endure for a night, but joy cometh in the morning. - Psalms 30:5b
...strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it. - Matthew 7:14
...And the Spirit of God moved upon the face of the waters. - Genesis 1:2b
The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters. - Psalms 23:1-2
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Thank you for visiting ADAM2.ORG and your interest in our studies and resources. We are currently going through a growth
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Adam2.org was established by our founder, Ken Livingston, in July 1999.
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If you aren't sure what your state of life will be when this one is over, we encourage you to seriously
consider this while you have opportunity. Nothing in this life you will do will be as important!
Likely, you have made every preparation for your present life.
You owe it to your self to prepare for what comes next. It won't cost you a thing! Continue reading...►
Excerpts From Studies' Area ▼
Excerpt from: In His Presence.
"A self surrendered in the silence of His presence is a soul at peace in Him who reclaimed it! The earth and its burdens no
longer bind you and you are free to walk the stars, revel in His glory, bathed in His love. Time affects only the earthly,
but your spirit is free to soar the heavenlies -- and the hours pass quickly, while In His Presence!
To journey where no mortal may go: This Is Prayer!"
Excerpt from: Proofs of Growing In Grace. 1. Less temptation to focus on troubles or talk about them to others... 2. Less temptation to resent and retaliate when insulted or abused... 3. Joy under crosses, disappointment, and severe pain...
Each month a featured writing from different authors will be posted below as a main feature in our center section.
The nature of these writings will vary from devotional, to inspirational, topical and informative for the current
state of our Christian culture. You may access this full feature with the link below. ▼
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Each day a host of members and visitors from around the world visit our site and use our online resources, all at no cost. We plan to continue doing so. As we have grown, so too have our needs. We would like to extend an invitation for you to become an integral part of our efforts in helping others. Read more... ►
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Shocking Finding: Two-thirds (67%) of pre-teen parents claim to be Christian, but only 2% of all pre-teen parents actually possess a biblical worldview...
American Values Personal Survey
Poll: American Majority Wants Congress to Pass Pro-Life Protections
Downward Trend Who Say Same-Sex Relations Morally Acceptable
Satan, The Father Of Lies
Battle For America's Soul
Ligonier Ministries' Biennial Study of The State Of American Theology
Among the Shocking findings are -
1. "31% of adults say it is very important for their religious faith to influence every dimension of their life."
2. "49% accept reincarnation as a possibility after they die."
Just one question: If, if this is true then why do our politicians and those who do their bidding in the media possess the spirit of antichrist—an anti-Christian spirit that treats others with such hostility, disrespect and mean-spirited? Why is the state of our country so godless and in an advanced state of decay and decline?
Something is grossly immoral and amiss!
Consider this from 3 of our founding fathers:
Benjamin Franklin - Man will ultimately be governed by God or by tyrants.
Jedidiah Morse - Whenever the pillars of Christianity shall be overthrown, our present republican forms of government - and all blessings which flow from them - must fall with them.
John Adams - Our Constitution was made only for a moral and religious people. It is wholly inadequate to the government of any other.
This may help to answer some of your questions as to our current national state of affairs. The honest student of history knows this to be true. Also read:
Sometimes in life the choice between two paths seems almost indistinguishable. It may not be one of your doing but there it is anyway. You may wonder how it came about but wonder as you may it's not going away. You may think because it is not too distinguishable it is of little consequence so your choice is not really going to impact you in the short-term—and you hope in the long term.
The day has come we are faced with such a choice. It is not one of our doing but we all have to make it. But before you do, I ask this one simple question for serious consideration: If you consented to wear the government's and businesses' mask today will you wear their mark tomorrow? For that day surely is coming—sooner than you think. They know the more we go along with the false and illegal choices forced upon us the easier in time it becomes. They've done their studies. It has all been war-gamed out by them. Look it up. (Start with just these 3: 1.2001 - Dark Winter, conducted by Johns Hopkins Center for Civilian Biodefense Strategies, in collaboration with the Center for Strategic and International Studies, the Analytic Services Institute for Homeland Security, and the Oklahoma National Memorial Institute for the Prevention of Terrorism, 2.2019 - Event 201, conducted by the Johns Hopkins Center for Health Security in partnership with the World Economic Forum and the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation & 3.Urban Outbreak 2019, conducted by the Naval War College and some 50+ "experts".)
First, they asked you to wear the mask and many thought, "oh well, it's no big deal; besides, they said it was only for a short time." But it's been well over a year and still over 90% of the population is wearing them even though the overwhelming science has shown that it doesn't provide any benefit. To the contrary, they insomuch admit it but they say, "wear it anyway!" With no pun intended, now they rub it in your face to say just one mask isn't enough. You must wear two, even three, four, and Lord Fauci is saying: well, maybe five might not hurt. Just recently, a study was done of children's masks and what they found when microscopically examined is enough to scare any parent into burning them, immediately—or should.
I am appalled to see how many have been deceived by this lie—grown men and women walking along in the scorching sun with it pulled up to their eyes, driving by themselves at 80 mph down an LA freeway. Jesus forewarned us that many would fall prey to a great deception in the end. Through the many years and throughout my studies I often wondered what would be that "Great Deception" in the last days that would lead astray an entire world. A clue was left for us in His Word. There can be no doubt now. We see it manifested every day as we walk among those who have been--masks, shots, "social distancing", church closures and all the many other anti-human acts they brain-wash the masses with.
The Book of Revelation warns us that big pharma (Greek for sorceries) will be the single greatest avenue by which the earth will be deceived thus setting the stage for the Antichrist to step forward as a "savior". Make no mistake about it, this incremental deception—first the mask, then the shot(s), then...?—asks you to surrender your will to a power other than that of yours or of God. It is satanic. It is the same choice, and great deception, in the beginning with Adam and his wife. You surrender your sovereignty?, your body is no longer yours. Let me ask you here this profound question posed by Jesus Himself: For whoever wishes to save his life will lose it; but whoever loses his life for My sake will find it. For what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world and forfeits his soul? Or what will a man give in exchange for his soul? (Mt.16:25-26) Never before has this verse had greater meaning. Death all around and they promise life if...if you surrender to their conditions. NO! the Christian must say. NO! I will not surrender my body that has already been given to God as a sacrifice. It is holy. (Rom.12:1-2) It is a sacrilige they ask of you. NO! My body is no longer mine to surrender to your shot.
Turns out, that small choice to wear the mask isn't so small after all. Now they tell you you must have the "shots(s)". The mark surely is not far behind. Don't you see the incremental steps Satan puts before us to ease us into full compliance? They've even told us as much. Study their writings. Study their words. You owe it to yourself and those you love, just say NO! Yes, it will cost you. Already has many, even their life. But they died with their soul intact. They overcame.
When it comes to matters of faith, it is eternally crucial we get these choices right because there may be no coming back from them. But I'm wondering. For many, is it already too late? With well over 50% of Americans now having been "vaccinated", as reported, 80% in some states, enough research has come in to cause many top leading scientists to raise the alarm. The vaccine is killing more than Covid. Consequently, it may be too late for those who have been deceived by corrupt officials and ignorant and Biblically incompetent pastors. But this is only the beginning.
Those same scientists, who have studied at length the design and complications of these "shots"—the vaccine pushers admit they are not vaccines—in increasing numbers are telling us, some without doubt, millions are going to die within the next 2 years. Think about that for a moment. You likely know someone who has already taken the "shot." Or, unfortunately, you may have yourself. If you or your loved one is one of these, seek expert medical help. Many are working tirelessly to discover ways to mitigate the damage, and death, that will come.
At first, Satan's steps for submission and compliance seem innocuous and incremental. For many, the choice is not very certain and some plunge headlong ahead hoping they are making the right one. But again, enough evidence and experience is mounting now that it should become quite apparent to one who keeps an open mind that the choice made, just as with the mask, was the wrong choice. We can actually see no good is coming of it. Each day the tragedies mount. Countries are banning them. Manufacturers are even pulling them. But yet, here in America, it's full steam ahead by the authoritarians—be damned the science. Even President Trump, to my disappointment, continues to vigorously push them—although I do understand his political reason for doing so.
Now they tell us to take their vaccine even though they admit it won't keep us from getting COVID. Take it anyway, they insist. Buying the lie, people don the mask. They stand in long lines to take the shot without even knowing, or caring, what it contains.
So, at this point, we are left with many troubling questions. Where is it going to end for you—when you say they have gone too far? When is it going to end for you? When and what is going to be your choice? Have you already made it? What will be the long-term consequences of your choice? What will be your fate if you go along? What will be your future if you don't resist? These all need to be considered because the choice is grave.
The path ahead is becoming much clearer today than it was just over a year ago. Choose carefully, my friend, for God is not the author of confusion. Seek and know His will for your life in these last troublesome days. Don't fall prey to the Great Lie, the Great Deception. At all cost, keep yourself pure as the Bride of Christ. DO NOT yoke yourself to another.
Finally, as encouragement, see what the Bible says is promised to those who overcome. Think of these when Satan casts his darkness over your soul. This is how you overcome—faith, faith in His promises. Learn them. Know them. For they will strengthen you in those times. And remember, Satan is the Father of Lies!
- Author: Ken Livingston - Monday, June 20, 2020 - Updated June 16, 2021 - Updated June 31, 2022
The following is taken from the Book, Adam2: A Guide For The Walk Home, written by our founder.
It is A Commentary On The Gospel Of John, complete with a background look at the contemporary Jewish groups active in Jesus' day.
It includes a summary of each chapter, a redacted study of each disciple, a brief study of Gnosticism of the time, pertinent timelines,
and much more. Each chapter of study includes extensive Biblical references to the notes on the chapter.
A chronological excerpt of each section will be posted here at the beginning of each month. You can access free of charge at any time
a complete online digital version
for your further study. In addition, a link will be provided to purchase the book on CD to install on
your own computer for convenience of study and print. All we ask is that you observe the stated copyrights as with any book you buy over
the counter, limiting your print to only one hard copy for your own personal use. If further hard copies are necessary,
please contact us for an additional nominal fee. Thank you for your interest in this study. Our hope and prayer is that
through the work of the Holy Spirit as you study you will be blessed by it, and if so, recommend it to a friend.
We turn this month to the study of the Pharisees from the book: Adam2.
I. MAJOR JEWISH GROUPS IN JESUS' DAY.
B. PHARISEES.
Pharisee in Hebrew is Perushim, and in Greek, Pharisaion, both meaning, separate, or Separates.
This idea developed from the strong desire and attempt to keep the Jew separate from the other peoples of the world,
by blood, religion, ceremony, and culture, eventually evolving into the Pharisees' own perception of themselves being
separate purists within their own Judean religion. Origins of this can be seen in the call of Abraham through the
repatriation of the post-exilic Jew in Ezra's day
(
Gen.12:1-2;
24:1-4;
Nu.25; Ezra 9-10). Out of this national culture developed several parties of prevailing schools of thought as to,
(1) how to interpret and practice the oracles of God handed down through their forefathers, and (2) what role and to what extent
their reduced Jewish state would play among other nations, especially under current Persian control. Though the origins of the
Pharisee can be seen prior to the Maccabeans who ruled Judea from 167-63 B.C., they did not develop until their time.
(See Appendix, Inter-Testament Timeline, p. 3; "Sanhedrin," Chapter 3, p. 77, and "Feast of Dedication," Chapter 10, p. 139.)
Gone was the monarchial rule of pre-Babylonian captivity that lasted several centuries during the Solomon Temple era
(See Appendix, Old Testament Timeline, p. 2). During the post-Babylonian period and Zerubbabel's temple time, law and
order evolved into the hands of men studied in the Mosaic law, usually priests, or the then emerging scribe such as Ezra,
a Levite. (See
Ezra 7:6,11-12,21;
Neh.8:1-13.)
From this cultural time evolved the Great Assembly, or Knesset Gedolah, composed primarily of anonymous scribes who
became the "supreme spiritual authority" in matters of law regulating Jewish life. Therefore, the shift of power from the
pre-Babylonian nobles and kings to the post-Babylonian High Priest and Council of Sages (as they were then called, eventually
called the Council of Seventy Elders or the sunedrion, or Sanhedrin—from the Greek suned, meaning council) was complete.
It is stated simply as a matter of fact by a modern Jewish historian that: "All these [post-exilic] developments called for
hundreds of new ordinances and enactments to regulate cultural and religious life...The members of the Great Assembly...faced
the task of providing fixed patterns of behavior in many spheres that had formerly been left to the discretion of the individual"
(Steinsaltz, p. 16). Their interpretations of Mosaic law evolved into oral law which was later catalogued and codified and rigidly
imposed and enforced. So strong was their desire to remain separate and in strict compliance to the letter of the teachings of the Mosaic law,
their stated philosophy was that it was "better to die than sin." A tragic tale exists of the only known nasi,
or president of this Council during this period, surrendering his own son for execution on sophistic charges because of their
insistence of strict adherence to the letter of their law (Steinsaltz, p. 22).
It is also said that in the beginning the Pharisees were men of great moral and religious character who placed themselves in
mortal danger for the cause of their party, but as time passed and the risk declined with growing popularity, its ranks swelled
with men of lower character, leading to the gross hypocrisy denounced by John the Baptist when he came upon the scene
(Davis, p. 630).
(
Mat.3:7)
After the Greeks came to power, unlike the emerging Sadducces, the Pharisees refused to become political, steadfastly
resisting the hellenization of their people. To prevent the Jews from adopting the Greek's cultural ways (hellenization),
they required strict adherence to the Mosaic laws and the rabbinical teachings and traditions of their fathers.
Scholars of Mosaic law evolved and their interpretations became binding, leading to almost if not all life's activities
becoming legally defined and ceremonially controlled. This resulted in their becoming highly legalistic in their daily living,
creating the yoke of burden upon the people of Israel that went beyond what the spirit of God's law intended. The central
question asked by them readily reveals how they evolved into their strict outward ceremonial life: Is it not better to be
a doer of God's Word than a hearer? Doing God's Law then became paramount. The condition of the heart became
secondary, and to most, totally irrelevant. What mattered most was the strict outward obedience to the Law.
This attitude gave rise to their long public praying, excessive tithing, and all the other outward excesses
they themselves engaged in and demanded of others. For example, using in part
Ex.16:29 &
35:2-3,
prohibited work on the Sabbath is identified in seven general categories with thirty-nine subdivisions. Specific detail
is given pertaining to the day's activities, with even further specifications for today's modern Jew. For instance,
nothing on the Sabbath can be carried outside one's home other than the clothing worn on the person, not even a handkerchief
in one's hand. (Babies are exempted, thankfully.) Work is strictly forbidden and specifically identified down to the minutest
detail, e.g., the turning on or off of a light, picking up a writing tool, or today, opening an umbrella for shelter from
the rain or sun. Private written communication is forbidden to be read unless it was in open form prior to the commencement
of the Sabbath. If one desired to personally avoid these voluminous restrictions, they simply hired a Gentile to do what
they themselves could not, therefore, clearly keeping the letter of the law but violating its spirit (Trepp, pp. 70, 71).
(Maybe they had learned their lesson in captivity all too well.) Consequently, the spiritual aspect of Jewish religion was
all but extinct, except among a few, usually among the poorer class who still had hope for a spiritual messiah
(
Lk.2:25,38).
I have heard the murmurings of the children of Israel: speak unto them, saying, At even ye shall eat flesh, and in the morning
ye shall be filled with bread; and ye shall know that I am the LORD your God...
Because all those men which have seen my glory, and my miracles, which I did in Egypt and in the wilderness,
and have tempted me now these ten times, and have not hearkened to my voice;
- Exodus 16:12; Nu.14:22
Jesus answered them and said, Verily, verily,
I say unto you, Ye seek me, not because ye saw the miracles, but because ye did eat of the loaves, and were filled.
- Jn.6:26
Then Jesus said unto them, Verily, verily,
I say unto you, Moses gave you not that bread from heaven; but my Father giveth you the true bread from heaven.
- Jn.6:32
Then said they unto him, Lord, evermore give us this bread.
- Jn.6:34
Then Jesus said unto them, Verily, verily,
I say unto you, Except ye eat the flesh of the Son of man, and drink his blood, ye have no life in you.
- Jn.6:53
Many therefore of his disciples, when they had heard this,
said, This is an hard saying; who can hear it?
- Jn.6:60
When Jesus knew in himself that his disciples murmured at it,
he said unto them, Doth this offend you?
- Jn.6:61
From that time many of his disciples went back, and walked no more with him.
- Jn.6:66
In the above Biblical examples both the Hebrews and the nominal disciples of Jesus were dependent upon their most
recent experiences with God for their continued loyalty to Him. Absent those miracles they all murmured and decided
they could no longer bear His leadership. They were addicted to their expectant experiences rather than dependent upon God.
They could not see past their human and emotional needs to be disciplined to walk by faith and not by sight. He would not
concede to their demands. He would not appeal to their emotions. He sought to elicit their obedience by faith, a faith beyond sight.
Short of that, He would force no one against their will to follow nor would He continue to entice them with His miracles (Lk.11:16).
His compassion knew no limits but He would not alter His teaching or rhetoric to placate their consciences to maintain their following.
His call was always prefaced with an IF—IF you will be my disciple, IF you would seek eternal life, etc (Mt.16:24; 19:21; Lk.14:26).
The amazing experience of the Exodus was not the experience of the parted Sea nor the manna that fell from Heaven.
It was not the miraculous flow of water from the rock of Meribah nor all the other miracles witnessed by the hundreds of
thousands of wandering Hebrews for thirty years. No. As marvelous and unforgettable as those experiences were by a people to
whom they were given there is one that towers over them all. It was the visible proof of the presence and movement of their God
seen in the pillar of cloud by day and fire by night. Without question, they knew they abided in the presence of their God. He
went before them by day and they pitched their tents around Him by night. Imagine! And yet it seems the Hebrews looked upon that fact
with such familiarity they looked past it, looking for the next experience that would give them their daily hope and encouragement.
From highs to great depths they repetitively fell—experience after experience, year after year. God's presence and His promises
alone were not sufficient to them. We know that because without those experiences they constantly wanted to turn back to Egypt.
In fact, at one point God wanted to completely destroy them and would had it not been for the intercession of Moses (Nu.14).
Their addiction to their experiences was greater than their dependence upon their God! Despite all the wonders they experienced
in Egypt before their departure, despite all the miracles they had witnessed to date, the Hebrews failed to grasp the vision of
Moses and at a minimum walk with him in his faith. Hence, they were condemned to their wilderness wanderings until all above
a certain age died out before their posterity were permitted to cross Jordan into the land of His promise (Nu.1:45). Even after
their children did cross Jordan, they would continue this disposition until after their captivity in Babylon and Ezra's
calling and ministry to them. One has to look only at the period of the Judges for clear evidence of this.
The experiences with Jesus and His followers were much along the same line. They would run to Him when they would see that
flash on the horizon upon His performance of a miracle, pushing, shoving, elbowing in to see and take for themselves any
overflow from the crowd, to desperately touch if possible in anonymity the hem of His garment. They followed Him as long
as they believed He might do another for their benefit, but when their faith would go no deeper in Him as Jesus
intended in the miracles, He would cease. He knew what was within the heart of each (Jn.2:24-25). Like their ancient kinsmen,
they too would turn away with much sorrow (Jn.6:66)—what tragedy, God among them, Immanuel, and they would walk
no more with Him! Addicted to the drug but no thought of the Physician who came to heal and save them!
The following is taken from the Book of New Testament Summaries.
Chapter
(Summer A.D.57?)
[Paul's response to Titus' good news from Corinth's reaction to his first letter.]
He begins with customary greetings, salutations, and commendations. He is greatly comforted in Christ amidst his
most recent severe persecution in Asia (Acts 19). His life has even been in danger, but he knows others are
comforted and strengthened in Christ's witness through his many afflictions, and he theirs (
Rom.12:15).
Their effectual prayers are greatly noticed. His words to them, though grievous, have not only been above board,
but straight from the heart in every way. Though he intended to come earlier but prevented, God is his witness
that he was sincere. His word can be trusted, just as Christ always fulfills His promises. His delay was in part
to allow them sufficient time to respond to his earlier rebuke that they not be sad when he arrived,
similarly causing him great sadness as well. He hopes their joy has since been restored and will be
shared when they finally meet. His previous instructions were to strengthen their faith in which they solely stand,
and not intended as rule over them. His authority, as theirs, is in none other than Christ who anointed and sealed him by His Spirit.
Their joy is interdependent: if one is sad, how can he make another glad. We ought always rejoice that it be for the
edifying of all, even in our afflictions and persecutions! Paul has written hoping that this time of correction,
discipline, and repentance might pass before he arrives. He is elated they have dealt with the errant one (I Cor.5),
but is now concerned they may go too far in their separation from him. Their forgiveness of the disciplined is absolutely
essential that Satan not gain advantage for further damage to their witness to Christ. He has been greatly concerned and
anxious in this matter, writing to them with his own tears, passing up opportunities of ministry in Troas where Titus was
to have met him with their report. Finally having found him in Macedonia (Philippi?), his spirit is relieved; in fact, their
news has caused a sweetness in his soul at this victory in Christ and the triumphing of His Truth, which he holds dear above all else.
[The theme of ministries contrasted or compared is expanded in Chapter 10. Apparently men of prominence, likely Jewish Christians,
were present in Corinth with letters of introduction from Jerusalem. Paul's authority was now being questioned by these influential
ones in the very Church he had established.]
Should he have to reintroduce himself as at the first when they were saved? He had no letter of introduction or authority from mortals then.
His power and authority has been, is, and always will be based solely in God who called him into the ministry of the New Covenant.
He was God's letter to them and now they to the world. They need no other! The old letter, to be taught others, was written in stone,
but the new, upon the hearts of the believers that all men might read wherever they are. The old condemned and brought death; the new makes
alive and free in Christ. The glory from the old could not be looked upon by the worshiper as he approached (Ex.34:29-35),
but now the veil has been removed (
Lk.24:35;
Heb.9 & 10.) and man may live in its presence, all radiating its light (
Mat.5:16),
as only Moses before (
Ex.33:11).
The veil has been universally removed for all men to look upon Him and live, yet Israel continues in blindness, unable to look within the
truth they read, even teach, which brings life and freedom, the Law continuing as their guide rather than the Spirit who has now clearly come.
He will teach all men, Jew or Gentile, who will open their ears and eyes to the truth reflected in His words. (Deu.18:15-19; Jn.16:7-15)
[Paul speaks to the core of Christian character that needs no vouchment by another, clearly visible by all, an open letter in the
light of God's gospel which he has been given to share with others.]
What are letters but a testimony of one to another's honesty? What need is there of them if we have the testimony (letter) of Christ.
A Christian's character is beyond reproach, above questioning, where no guile (deceit) can be ferreted. What need have I of letters then,
if I have Christ? (
Jn.1:47;
2:25)
If I have Christ, I have His Letter! What is His Letter, if it is not His Testimony?
(3:3) What is His Testimony, if it is not His Spirit? (
Jn.15:26;
16:13;
I Jn.4:2)
What is His Spirit, if it is not Truth? (
Jn.15:26;
16:13)
What is His Truth, if it is not Freedom? (
Jn.8:32)
What is His Freedom, if it is not Righteousness? (
Rom.8:2-4;
Ps.71:16;
85:13;
119:144;
Prov.12:28;
21:20)
What is His Righteousness, if it is not God? (
Ps.33:4-5;
48:9;
50:5;
71:15;
97:2;
Mat.19:17)
And what is God, if not Love? (
I Jn.4:8)
Examine me then, and see if I have the Love of God in my heart, if so, then the Letter of Christ! Don't you see?
If I am in possession of one, I am in possession of all! And if I am lacking in one, I am lacking in all. Love then is the greater,
and by it we know He is in us. (
I Jn.3:16-17;
4:6-17) And Love suffers all. (
I Co.13:4-7)
Paul has successfully established his authority and identity in Christ by stating both his argument and giving evidence
in his own life of his love suffering for them. No one suffers as he has if the love of Christ does not dwell in him;
so do not be fooled by one's outward pomp, circumstance, and letters. A man's life and suffering is sufficient evidence
and defense of his own standing in Christ. (A widely known question comes to mind here: If you were arrested tomorrow
and charged with being a Christian, would there be enough evidence in your life to convict you? Letters could be destroyed
but the legacy of lost souls won to Christ could not be eradicated. What would be the nature of your evidence?
Certainly, all would have to concede in Paul's case it was lives and not letters, to which they did, thus easing
the schism that developed among them.) Certainly our suffering, though it may not be fully understood and appreciated
by some, will not go unnoticed and unrewarded by God (
Heb.6:10).
The rewards will far outweigh the small temporal price paid in suffering for His sake while doing His work.
(vs.17;
Jn.16:20-22)
Knowing our temporal bodies are His Earthly temple, when it has served its purpose on Earth, be assured its spirit will
immediately ascend to the Father. We have been given the assurance of this by His indwelling Spirit. And if the Spirit
who is rich above all Earthly measure, who Himself gives gifts to the recipient believer (
I Co.12:11),
is only the down payment of the riches to come, how great must those riches be! This is sufficient cause for our earnest
expectation to depart the present for the eternal. So, for goodness sake, labor while present that you may be accepted by Him,
both now and in the life to come. Glory only in the things eternal, and do not be overly impressed by those who make pomp of
their appearance; God will judge the hearts of all men. We seek the approval of no one but Him. And we have, through His atoning work,
been made ambassadors in His name. This is by what authority we work and speak.
[Paul continues his vindication of his Apostolic authority.]
Their continued questioning of his validity puts them in danger of bringing reproach upon their thriving ministry in Corinth.
God's grace, which was bestowed upon them at the first through Paul's original work, was not in vain, otherwise they would
still be in their sin and in need of another witness, this time of valid authority. But he has been that witness; therefore,
he needs no other or further recommendation to them. His open life of suffering is evidence of his love for both God and them.
His heart has been that conduit, enlarged, through which Christ's love could flow to them, and that not of insignificant quantity.
He is not their master to lord over them, but they, his children in the faith. His care is parental, desiring to see them grow into
the full stature of a man, becoming capable of discerning truth from illusion, false teachers from true prophets. He warns them to
beware of worthless men who may rank high in the eyes of other men, but worthless nonetheless for Christ. They are not to associate
with such, for their ways are subtle, contaminating them with their doctrine and practices. God's children are to remain sanctified unto Him.
Purity of body and spirit is the way of the one called and separated by and for God (
James 1:27).
Paul exhorts them to such a life of moral integrity and honesty, as he himself has lived before them. His soul has not
rested since sending Titus with his previous letter. But now that he has found Titus upon his return through Macedonia,
his heart is overcome with jubilation for their Godly response, which was the sole intent of his written words. Both his
and Titus' love for them is magnified by their humble submission to their direction in this matter. God has been glorified.
[Paul now turns his attention to the offering being collected in Asia Minor, Macedonia, and Greece for the saints in Jerusalem.]
Liberality in giving, as Christ so liberally gave, is encouraged that none go lacking and equality might be obtained.
As each one is helped, they in turn are to reach a hand behind to lift another, all working hand in hand as one body,
fitly joined together, that no disparity exist among them. Christ's Church is one; indeed, it is His body. If one suffers,
they all suffer. If one abounds, they all should abound. Titus' personal care for them is commended. Others not named are
honored in their readiness and assistance. Let all that is done in these administrative matters be done with full accounting
that not so much as a suspicion be leveled against the ministry anywhere. Paul is confident now in their corrected zeal,
and is certain they will want to demonstrate their love for the brethren in this opportunity for giving.
Listen to this young German Christian artist create, in the moment, the composition he later entitiled, "Prayer". (We love his T-shirt. Take a close look. Expand and freeze frame.)
WEF Official Calls for AI to Re-Write the Bible 'Correctly'
"In a few years, there might be religions that are actually correct … just think about a religion whose holy book is written by an AI. That could be a reality in a few years," states WEF advisor Yuval Noah Harari, "a homosexual, Israeli author and historian who holds mostly to atheistic beliefs in spirituality," - Charismamag.com.
Transgender Lutheran pastor on the Bible's clear line of male & female: "It's hard to relate it to modern-day times b/c it wasn't written for 2024. It was written for then. When we read in the scripture that God created man and woman, yes, and god created everyone else, as well." pic.twitter.com/rFIKhlv7OW
To the cast down and disheartened, stop and remember the joy of the beginning of your new birth. Remember, there is no battle you face that He has not already fought and overcome. The victory is yours. Embrace it.
Featured Sermon
The Eternal Consummation Of The Age - 1/5/1997
Daniel 12: And at that time shall Michael stand up, the great prince which standeth for the children of thy people: and there shall be a time of trouble, such as never was since there was a nation even to that same time: and at that time thy people shall be delivered, every one that shall be found written in the book.
See The Avenue Of Prayer As Being Littered With Defeated Discarded Distractions And How They Diminish In The Progress Of Your Heavenly Ascent... Read More
In the beginning, your physical senses will be stronger, giving greater access to unwanted distractions, but as you ascend,
your flesh will diminish in its hold on the spirit, and God's heavenly pull will draw you into His Presence. All thoughts of
earthly cares will have vanished, to remain behind, as the spirit is propelled to escape all earth's attractions. Spirit to Spirit,
yours and His, in Holy Communion, as intended from the Beginning! But in time, the body will rise from its slumber, beckon,
and the spirit will return as the senses stir to regain control, bringing you back to the reality of your present earthly state of
being—like returning to your vocation after a well-enjoyed vacation. But there will come another time!
THIS IS PRAYER!
To Steal Away On A Heavenly Holiday! If Only For A Moment, Before The Body Detects You Are Away And Calls You Back Under The Power Of Its Sway.
AND SO PRAY:
"Father, catch me up quickly, as I steal away secretly, before I have to return sadly to wait again for another time."
Anger is not always or necessarily sinful, but it has such a tendency to run wild that whenever it displays itself, we should be quick to question its character, with this enquiry, 'Doest thou well to be angry?' It may be that we can answer, 'YES.' Very frequently anger is the madman's firebrand, but sometimes it is Elijah's fire from heaven... Read More
We do well when we are angry with sin, because of the wrong which it commits against our good and gracious God; or with ourselves because we remain so foolish after so much divine instruction; or with others when the sole cause of anger is the evil which they do. He who is not angry at transgression becomes a partaker in it. Sin is a loathsome and hateful thing, and no renewed heart can patiently endure it. God himself is angry with the wicked every day, and it is written in His Word, 'Ye that love the Lord, hate evil.' Far more frequently it is to be feared that our anger in not commendable or even justifiable, and then we must answer, 'NO.' Why should we be fretful with children, passionate with servants, and wrathful with companions? Is such anger honourable to our Christian profession, or glorifying to God? Is it not the old evil heart seeking to gain dominion, and should we not resist it with all the might of our newborn nature.
Many professors give way to temper as though it were useless to attempt resistance; but let the believer remember that he must be a conqueror in every point, or else he cannot be crowned. If we cannot control our tempers, what has grace done for us? Some one told Mr. Jay that grace was often grafted on a crab-stump. 'Yes,' said he, 'but the fruit will not be crabs.' We must not make natural infirmity an excuse for sin, but we must fly to the cross and pray the Lord to crucify our tempers, and renew us in gentleness and meekness after His own image.
Rousseau's Civil Religion: the Idolatry of Tolerance
When
Thomist dispensationalist Norman Geisler during the Bill Moyers special on reconstructionism stated that Christians want a moral nation,
not a Christian nation,1 he was speaking in the vein of Jean-Jacques Rousseau, arguably the most influential
political philosopher of the last three centuries... Read More
Rousseau, defender of the infallible (and imaginary) "general will," of the indivisibility of human sovereignty, and of social egalitarianism,2 was also one of the first Enlightenment proponents of "civil religion," as set forth in chapter 8, book 4 of The Social Contract. Rousseau recognized the inescapably religious character of law and society, but deplored the influence of Christianity and Christians on the commonweal. He had nothing but contempt for a Christian citizenry:
. . . no State has ever been founded without a religious basis [but] the law of Christianity at bottom does
more harm by weakening than good by strengthening the constitution of the State.3
Rousseau depicted Christianity as an impotent, vacillating, dualistic, masochistic faith:...
"Blessed is the man that endureth temptation: for when he is tried, he shall receive the crown of life, which the Lord hath promised
to them that love him. Let no man say when he is tempted, I am tempted of God: for God cannot be tempted with evil, neither tempteth he any man:
But every man is tempted, when he is drawn away of his own lust, and enticed. Then when lust hath conceived, it bringeth forth sin: and sin,
when it is finished, bringeth forth death."
The question is asked: When tempted, where is the line that distinguishes between sin and none sin? If one does not feel drawn
towards a temptation (have a desire towards), where then is the need for resistance?... Read More
If two are faced with the identical wrong and the first easily, without thought (enticement), turns away and the second is enticed but after some
internal conflict, whether great or small, renews his strength and then turns away, who has the victory? The first can boast of his own strength and say,
"Because I was strong, I was not tempted in the least!" But the second is thankful of heart in that his strength came not from within, else he knows he
would have given in; but it came from without—from a source other than himself. The first is proud, the second humble. For he knows God, not he himself,
was his strength and redeemer...(I Peter 5:5-6)
The consequences of the magnitude of such a broad scale world-wide implementation of a "new church model" cannot be ignored. It must be examined by the serious Bible student and Christian! It must be looked at in light of Bible prophecy. We must heed the warnings of both Jesus' own words when He walked the earth and those inspired by the Holy Spirit written later for our advantage in alertness of end-time events and trends. Not to do so would be perilous. So, I have prayerfully written 5 articles on this demonic phenonemonen with hopes they will help you to understand how serious this modern attack is on the true church of Christ - Articles on the Modern Church.
A Time To Mourn
A visitor wrote and poured out her heart in anguish over the state of our country and the world. Seeing the wide-spread corruption, destruction, evil and the many sins of a people she was moved to tears. She felt alone—isolated in her tears.
She wondered where the tears and the voices of an obviously suffering nation were. Her transformative unburdening in her writing led to asking me to write in hopes of answering her many unanswered questions. Without doubt, she very ably speaks for many of us.
Indeed, we are living in a time like no other. It is profound and impacts every living creature on the planet. No one has escaped it. It is more than just a virus that has affected many.
Using the cover of that single exaggerated threat, what we have seen imposed on the world by those who stand to gain is so diabolical that it is hard to express one's reaction to it without emotions boiling to the surface...
...Before attempting to respond to this visitor's emotional pleas with some hopeful words capable and worthy of speaking to such a burden, it is most important to let her express those questions to you, in her own words:
...See her questions and read entire article
Welcome to Adam2.org!
I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing. - John 15:5
And the same day, when the even was come, he saith unto them, Let us pass over unto the other side. - Mark 4:35
...weeping may endure for a night, but joy cometh in the morning. - Psalms 30:5b
...strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it. - Matthew 7:14
...And the Spirit of God moved upon the face of the waters. - Genesis 1:2b
The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters. - Psalms 23:1-2
First, they asked you to wear the mask and many thought, "oh well, it's no big deal; besides, they said it was only for a short time." But it's been well over a year and still over 90% of the population is wearing them even though the overwhelming science has shown that it doesn't provide any benefit. To the contrary, they insomuch admit it but they say, "wear it anyway!" With no pun intended, now they rub it in your face to say just one mask isn't enough. You must wear two, even three, four, and Lord Fauci is saying: well, maybe five might not hurt. Just recently, 
When it comes to matters of faith, it is eternally crucial we get these choices right because there may be no coming back from them. But I'm wondering. For many, is it already too late? With well over 50% of Americans now having been "vaccinated", as reported, 
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Cause Of Anger
Jonah 4:9
Rousseau's Civil Religion: the Idolatry of Tolerance
Is Enticement Sin?
