Forasmuch as ye know that ye were not redeemed with corruptible things, as silver and gold, from your vain conversation received by tradition from your fathers; But with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot (1 Peter 1:18-19)
Have this attitude in yourselves which was also in Christ Jesus, who, although He existed in the form of God, did not regard equality with God a thing to be grasped, but emptied Himself, taking the form of a bond-servant, and being made in the likeness of men. Being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross. (Philippians 2:5-8 NASB, 1995 version)
Then was Jesus led up of the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted of the devil. And when he had fasted forty days and forty nights, he was afterward an hungred. (Matthew 4:1-2)
And this is life eternal, that they might know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent. (John 17:3)
Now there was a rich man and he was clothed in purple and fine linen, making good cheer in splendor every day. And there was a poor man, by name Lazarus, who was laid at his gateway full of sores (Luke 16:19-20)
Then answered the Jews and said unto him, What sign shewest thou unto us, seeing that thou doest these things? Jesus answered and said unto them, Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up. (John 2:18-19)
Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, (Matthew 28:19 ESV)
And he took bread, and gave thanks, and brake it, and gave unto them, saying, This is my body which is given for you: this do in remembrance of me. (Luke 22:19)
"and Jacob fathered Joseph the father of Mary, from whom was born Jesus, who is called Christ." (Matthew 1:16)
Every man serves the good wine first, and when the guests are drunk, then he serves the poorer wine; but you have kept the good wine until now." (John 2:10)
To the Reader: I wrote this article my brothers and sisters in Christ, to remind you of the price that God paid for us through his son Jesus Christ. And because it only touches on a small portion of the Gospel, we must read and study the bible to fully understand the price that was paid for our sins. And because we’re all in a learning process, some of you may not agree with everything that's being taught here. So again, I encourage you to do some studying through the bible on your own and “Be diligent to present yourself approved to God as a worker who does not need to be ashamed, accurately handling the word of truth.” (2 Timothy 2:15 NASB20)
God’s love be with you all. Amen.
“And if you call on the Father, who without partiality judges according to each one’s work, conduct yourselves throughout the time of your stay here in fear; knowing that you were not redeemed with corruptible things, like silver or gold, from your aimless conduct received by tradition from your fathers, but with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot.” (1 Peter 1:17-19 NKJV)
God loves us so much and desires that none us should perish, for he said: “Say to them, As I live, declares the Lord GOD, I have no pleasure in the death of the wicked, but that the wicked turn from his way and live; turn back, turn back from your evil ways, for why will you die, O house of Israel?” (Ezekiel 33:11 ESV) We see the same thing in the New Testament where we read: “The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.” (2 Peter 3:9 KJV)
Now, from what we read above, couldn’t we all agree that God wants us to repent and thus be saved? However, we know that the old covenant couldn’t make this happen. “For it is impossible for the blood of bulls and goats to take away sins. Therefore, when He comes into the world, He says, “YOU HAVE NOT DESIRED SACRIFICE AND OFFERING, BUT YOU HAVE PREPARED A BODY FOR ME; YOU HAVE NOT TAKEN PLEASURE IN WHOLE BURNT OFFERINGS AND OFFERINGS FOR SIN. “THEN I SAID, ‘BEHOLD, I HAVE COME (IT IS WRITTEN OF ME IN THE SCROLL OF THE BOOK) TO DO YOUR WILL, O GOD.’” (Hebrews 10:4-7 NASB20)
So, who is he “who knew no sin” and was recorded “in the volume of the book”? Wasn’t it Jesus Christ who took upon himself the sins of the world? “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved.” (John 3:16-17 KJV)
“For as Jonas was three days and three nights in the whale’s belly; so shall the Son of man be three days and three nights in the heart of the earth.” (Matthew 12:40 KJV)
From what we can gather from that passage above, Jesus in a sense was saying: “For as Jonah was. …so shall the Son of man be.” Now, to see what it was like for Jesus in the heart of the earth, we need to see how it was for Jonah himself. “Then Jonah prayed unto the LORD his God out of the fish’s belly, And said, I cried by reason of mine affliction unto the LORD, and he heard me; out of the belly of hell cried I, and thou heardest my voice.” (Jonah 2:1-2 KJV)
So, we can see that Jonah was experiencing “affliction” and quoted it as being in “the belly of hell.” And let’s remember that Jesus called Jonah a prophet, for we read: “But he answered and said unto them, An evil and adulterous generation seeketh after a sign; and there shall no sign be given to it, but the sign of the prophet Jonas.” (Matthew 12:39 KJV) Now, doesn’t this clearly show us that Jesus did suffer affliction in the heart of the earth? Why else would he compare it in such a way?
“Who in the days of his flesh, when he had offered up prayers and supplications with strong crying and tears unto him that was able to save him from death, and was heard in that he feared; Though he were a Son, yet learned he obedience by the things which he suffered; And being made perfect, he became the author of eternal salvation unto all them that obey him; Called of God an high priest after the order of Melchisedec.” (Hebrews 5:7-10 KJV)
From what we read above, we can see that Jesus was pleading to God to “save him from death.” Also, it says that he “was heard in that he feared.” Now, I believe that this wasn’t concerning his physical death because he was crucified and put to death. Therefore, wouldn’t Jesus be asking the Father that his soul would not be left in hell? For Peter said: “Him, being delivered by the determined purpose and foreknowledge of God, you have taken by lawless hands, have crucified, and put to death; whom God raised up, having loosed the pains of death, because it was not possible that He should be held by it.” (Acts 2:23-24 NKJV) So again, Jesus was “loosed” (saved) from “the pains of death.” Now, what pains are there in death other than the fires of hell itself?
So, wouldn't this be proof that Jesus not only suffered in hell, but was released from the torments of it after his three days and night there? Also, if after his death he went to a place inside the earth (as some claim) called Abraham’s bosom, why was he pleading and crying with tears to get out of there? For wouldn’t Abraham and the rest of God saints be in there, some that would have been there for a few hundred years or more? Therefore, I convinced that there is no place called Abraham’s Bosom inside the earth.
“And in hell he lift up his eyes, being in torments, and seeth Abraham afar off, and Lazarus in his bosom. And he cried and said, father Abraham, have mercy on me, and send Lazarus, that he may dip the tip of his finger in water, and cool my tongue; for I am tormented in this flame.” (Luke 16:23-24 KJV)
Now, from the account of the rich man and Lazarus, we can see that hell is a place of torment. For we see concerning that passage above, the rich man was crying for mercy. Therefore, brothers and sisters in Christ, let’s consider how much Jesus suffered for us. For he took upon himself the agony and torments that was do all of us, for “All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned everyone to his own way; and the LORD hath laid on him the iniquity of us all.” (Isaiah 53:6 KJV)
And so, being fully convinced that God the Father was going to raise him up out of the heart of the earth, Jesus said: “I foresaw the Lord always before my face, for he is on my right hand, that I should not be moved: Therefore did my heart rejoice, and my tongue was glad; moreover also my flesh shall rest in hope: Because thou wilt not leave my soul in hell, neither wilt thou suffer thine Holy One to see corruption. ... He seeing this before spake of the resurrection of Christ, that his soul was not left in hell, neither his flesh did see corruption. This Jesus hath God raised up, whereof we all are witnesses.” (Acts 2:25-27, 31-32 KJV)
Below are some video on why Jesus had to suffered in hell:
“Truly, I say to you, today you will be with me in paradise.” (Luke 23:43 ESV)
This passage above poses a few problems. For it appears as if Jesus was promising the repentant thief that they would be together in paradise that literal day. But we know that Jesus said he had to spend three days and nights in the heart of the earth (hell). So, how do we make sense of all this? Well, let’s first keep in mind that there were no commas in the original Greek manuscripts. Therefore, translators both of the past and the present placed these commas where it seemed best. So, concerning that passage above, the translators of the King James Bible chose to put the comma before the word “today.” Now, I do believe that these translators were gifted in what they did. However, being human like the rest of us, these translators were not immune to certain view and biases of their day. Therefore, it wouldn’t be uncommon for some of these views to show up in their work as well.
Now, I have to admit that there are many translations that follow the comma placement of the KJV bible. However, there are those few that have the comma after the word “today.” Thus, this same passage would read “Truly I say to you today, you will be with me in the Paradise.” (Luke 43:23 REV) This makes more sense because we have Jesus not promising the thief that they would be together that literal day, but at some time in the future. Now, there is a man named E. W. Bullinger, a commentator of the Companion Bible who wrote: “say to you, today = ‘I say to thee today.’ Today; connect this with ‘I say’ to emphasize the solemnity of the occasion; not with “shalt thou be.” So, Mr. Bullinger admits that it should read: “Truly I say to you today.” So, in a sense, Jesus was telling the thief to listen and heed to what I’m about to tell you right now. And that would be the assurance that they will be together at some point in the future.
So, even though a misplaced comma would normally be a minor thing, it can become a major one when it comes to such passages as above. So, it’s important that you have more than one translation within your library. This would especially be true when those red flags pop up in your head telling you that something doesn’t make sense. Therefore, it’s important that we rely on the Holy Spirit to help us navigate throughout the scriptures. So, let’s always seek God’s help, even when it comes to something as simple as a comma placement.
Below are more translations that chose to place the comma after the word today:
Below are different passages which uses the word “today” to help emphasize what’s being said:
So, wouldn’t all this be a witness that the comma should have come after the word “today,” and not before as some have it? I do believe so. However, do your own studying on this and then righty judge.
“When Jesus had received the sour wine, he said, “It is finished,” and he bowed his head and gave up his spirit.” (John 19:30 ESV)
According to that passage above, what was finished? Was our forgiveness and redemption totally completed at that moment? For we must remember that Jesus said “It is finished” before he died and rose from the dead. So, to get a better understanding of what Jesus meant, we need to consider a few other bible verses as well. The first is: “Who was delivered for our offences, and was raised again for our justification.” (Romans 4:25 KJV) The next is: “Now if Christ is proclaimed as raised from the dead, how can some of you say that there is no resurrection of the dead? But if there is no resurrection of the dead, then not even Christ has been raised. And if Christ has not been raised, then our preaching is in vain and your faith is in vain. We are even found to be misrepresenting God, because we testified about God that he raised Christ, whom he did not raise if it is true that the dead are not raised. For if the dead are not raised, not even Christ has been raised. And if Christ has not been raised, your faith is futile and you are still in your sins. Then those also who have fallen asleep in Christ have perished.” (1 Corinthians 15:12-18 ESV)
So, according to the apostle Paul said above, the death and resurrection of Jesus is crucial for our redemption. Now, let’s examine another passage which may help us to understand what Jesus meant when he said, “It is finished” while hanging on the cross: “And this is life eternal, that they might know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent. I have glorified thee on the earth: I have finished the work which thou gavest me to do.” (John 17:3-4 KJV) So, John the apostle who heard Jesus say this, reminded us of these words of Jesus in one of his epistles. For he wrote: “We know also that the Son of God has come and has given us understanding, so that we may know him who is true. And we are in him who is true by being in his Son Jesus Christ. This is the true God, and eternal life.” (1 John 5:20 NIV, KJV)
So, Jesus came to show us who God our Father is. For Jesus said to Philip in John 14:9 that: “he who has seen me has seen the Father.” Also, he came to show us that he is our promised Messiah, the only way to God the Father. And not only that, but if we believe this with all our heart, we will have eternal life with him.
“Then Jesus, calling out with a loud voice, said, “Father, into your hands I commit my spirit!” And having said this he breathed his last.” (Luke 23:46 ESV)
Jesus knew that he must spend three days and nights in the heart of the earth (hell). Therefore, Jesus was simply trusting his soul in the hands of God his Father. For we read: “I have set the LORD always before me: because he is at my right hand, I shall not be moved. Therefore my heart is glad, and my glory rejoiceth: my flesh also shall rest in hope. For thou wilt not leave my soul in hell; neither wilt thou suffer thine Holy One to see corruption. Thou wilt shew me the path of life: in thy presence is fulness of joy; at thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore.” (Psalm 16:8-11 KJV) So, Jesus was trusting that God the Father would not leave his soul in hell nor allow his body to decay in the grave. Therefore, he committed himself into the hands of God his Father. And according to scripture, God raise Jesus up and deliver him from the pains of death (hell itself). Thank God for that.
And it’s the same for us today brothers and sisters in Christ. For we who have put our trust in both God our Father and Jesus our Savior will be brought into paradise. Yes, Jesus will descend from heaven with a commanding shout to us his chosen people to rise up. For Jesus said: “Truly, truly, I say to you, an hour is coming, and is now here, when the dead will hear the voice of the Son of God, and those who hear will live. ... Do not marvel at this, for an hour is coming when all who are in the tombs will hear his voice and come out, those who have done good to the resurrection of life, and those who have done evil to the resurrection of judgment.” (John 5:25, 28-29 ESV)
“For the Lord himself will descend from heaven with a cry of command, with the voice of an archangel, and with the sound of the trumpet of God. And the dead in Christ will rise first. Then we who are alive, who are left, will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air, and so we will always be with the Lord.” (1 Thessalonians 4:16-17 ESV) So again, Jesus Christ shall return for us Christians who have put our faith and hope in him. This would be true whether we’re dead or alive. For if dead, we shall be in the company of the dead in Christ who shall be returning with him. And if we are alive, we shall be caught up with them in heaven. Either way it’s a win-win situation for us who have put our hope and faith in God’s mercy. Amen
“And going a little farther he fell on his face and prayed, saying, “My Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from me; nevertheless, not as I will, but as you will.” (Matthew 26:39 ESV)
Now, as already mentioned earlier, let’s not come to the false notion that Jesus (after his death) descended into an earthly paradise called “Abrahams Bosom.” (see Luke 16:22) For there are those who believe that Jesus was hanging out with the departed saints, some who would been there for a few hundred years. And if that was true, why was Jesus so glad to get out of there? (see Psalm 16:10 and Acts 2:27) For it says above that Jesus was praying earnestly, asking God his Father “if it be possible, let this cup pass from me.” So, would this agonizing prayer be only for the cross? Because we need to remember that there were many others that suffered that same fate. So instead, wouldn’t this prayer be not only for the cross and the beatings that he must endure, but for his three days and nights of in hell as well? Something to consider and pray about my fellow brothers and sisters in Christ. And please, make sure you’re studying God word for yourselves as well. Yes, you must test all things.
So that being said, where in the bible does it mention a place called Paradise? Well, the first is: “He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; To him that overcometh will I give to eat of the tree of life, which is in the midst of the paradise of God.” (Revelation 2:7) So, where is the “paradise of God?” Well: “Then he showed me the river of the water of life, bright as crystal, flowing from the throne of God and of the Lamb through the middle of the street of the city; also, on either side of the river, the tree of life with its twelve kinds of fruit, yielding its fruit each month; and the leaves of the tree were for the healing of the nations.” (Revelation 22:1-2 RSV)
Next, we have Paul the apostle’s own testimony saying, “I know a man in Christ who fourteen years ago (whether in the body or out of the body I do not know, God knows) was caught up to the third heaven. And I know that this man (whether in the body or apart from the body I do not know, God knows) was caught up into paradise and heard things too sacred to be put into words, things that a person is not permitted to speak.” (2 Corinthians 12:2-4 NET) So, according to the apostle Paul, there is a paradise that’s up in the third heaven. Therefore, these scriptures are a witness showing that paradise is not in some make-believe underworld inside the earth. For the only thing that’s inside the earth is the fires of hell itself.
“Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us, Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.” (Hebrews 12:1-2 KJV)
Okay, you may be asking: “where is Abraham and the rest of the departed Saints of God?” Well, let’s first notice that it says we’re surrounded by a “great cloud of witnesses” in that passage above. Also, it says in Hebrews 11:13 that those witnesses are they who have died in faith. So, according to that passage above, doesn’t it sound like they are quite alive and we’re surrounded by them as well? We can see this also to be true from the account of the rich man and Lazarus. For after the rich man died, he was aware of his surroundings by feeling the torments of hell. And while looking up, his eyes were opened to see the realm of the saints, where Lazarus was, being comforted in the arms of Abraham. Let’s also remember that Moses and Elisha appeared before Peter, James, and John when Jesus was transfigured before them. And didn’t Jesus himself say to the Sadducees: “But as touching the resurrection of the dead, have ye not read that which was spoken unto you by God, saying, I am the God of Abraham, and the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob? God is not the God of the dead, but of the living.” (Matthew 22:31-32 KJV)
So, even though a person’s body may be buried in the ground, their soul would still be alive. This is true whether one is up in the realm of the saints or being tormented in the flames of hell below.
And in hell he lift up his eyes, being in torments, and seeth Abraham afar off, and Lazarus in his bosom. And he cried and said, Father Abraham, have mercy on me, and send Lazarus, that he may dip the tip of his finger in water, and cool my tongue; for I am tormented in this flame. (Luke 16:23-24 KJV)
Now, you may be thinking, “didn’t the rich man in hell talk to Abraham afar off.” Well, even though this is true, that still doesn’t prove that there’s some chamber called “Abraham's Bosom” inside the earth. So, let’s first consider what that passage says above. First, we must realize that the rich man has never seen Abraham before. So, how could he have recognized and even communicated with him among a huge mass of God’s saints in some distant chamber inside the earth? That would be like you sitting in a packed stadium recognizing and communicating with a well-known radio host on the other side of the field whom you never seen or heard speak before.
So, on the contrary, wouldn’t this be a vision that the rick man saw, just as it was for the disciple Stephen? For we read: “But he, full of the Holy Spirit, gazed into heaven and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing at the right hand of God. And he said, “Behold, I see the heavens opened, and the Son of Man standing at the right hand of God.” (Acts 7:55-56 ESV) So, that great gulf between Abraham and the rich man could have been the distance between hell inside the earth and the Saintly realm of the dead outside of it. So again, I encourage you to do some studying on your own my fellow brothers and sisters in Christ.
“For the life of the flesh is in the blood: and I have given it to you upon the altar to make an atonement for your souls: for it is the blood that maketh an atonement for the soul.” (Leviticus 17:11 KJV)
According to that passage above, we can clearly see that it’s the blood that makes an atonement for our souls. Also in the New Testament, John the apostle said: “But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin.” (1 John 1:7 KJV) So, we see that the blood of Christ is a vital part of our atonement for sin. For without it, there would be no forgiveness possible. Now that being said, we must also realize that all sacrifices had to be done according to procedure. This included the Passover Lamb, for we read: “And they shall take of the blood, and strike it on the two side posts and on the upper door post of the houses, wherein they shall eat it. And they shall eat the flesh in that night, roast with fire, and unleavened bread; and with bitter herbs they shall eat it. (Exodus 12:7-8 KJV) So, the lamb had to be not only slain and its blood applied as mention above, but it had to go through the fire before the occupants of the house could partake of it.
Now, during communion, don’t we receive both the bread and wine which represents both the body and blood of Christ? So, just as the Passover lamb’s blood needed to be shed and its body brought through the fire, wouldn’t Christ’s blood needed to be shed and his soul brought through the fire as well? So in a sense, this would truly make Christ our Passover Lamb who was sacrificed on our behalf. Therefore, we should always thank God for his great mercy towards us sinners who are saved by his grace. Amen.
Below are a few scriptures pertaining to the blood of Christ:
“All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned everyone to his own way; and the LORD hath laid on him the iniquity of us all.” (Isaiah 53:6 KJV)
As mentioned earlier, Luke chapter 16 shows us that hell is a temporary abode for all who have died in their sins. So, even though Christ’s blood was a vital part of our atonement for sins, he still had to suffer the wrath of God that was do for all sinners. And let’s remember that God is not a respecter of persons. (see Acts 10:34) So, because our Savior Jesus died a sinner’s death, wouldn't he also need to suffer a sinner’s death which would include hell as well? “For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him.” (2 Corinthians 5:21 KJV)
Now as said at the beginning, we’re not all at the same level of faith. For there are some who have a limited knowledge and there are some who have a much deeper knowledge as well. However, all of us are saved by God’s grace that’s poured out upon us. And let’s remember what Paul the apostle said to the Corinthian believers: “As for the one who is weak in faith, welcome him, but not to quarrel over opinions.” (Romans 14:1 ESV) So, if one only has the knowledge and belief that Jesus died on the cross, was buried and then rose the third day for our redemption, this person still would be saved. For he, believing in the saving blood of Jesus Christ would still have eternal life even though he has a limited knowledge of the gospel. Therefore, it’s a daily learning process for us. For Jesus said: But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, he will teach you all things and bring to your remembrance all that I have said to you.” (John 14:26 ESV)
So, knowing that the Holy Spirit lives in us and teaches us all things, lets dig deeper into God’s word to know all his truths. (see 2 Timothy 2:15) For it should be our desire to truly recognize and see everything that God did for us. Therefore, we shouldn’t only rely on what others teach us, but we must mainly rely on God’s Holy Spirit. For as Jesus said above, the Holy Spirit “will teach you all things.” Also, Jesus said concerning himself: “take my yoke upon you and learn of me.” (Matthew 11:29 KJV) And not only that, he also said: “It is written in the prophets, And they shall all be taught of God. Every one that hath heard from the Father, and hath learned, cometh unto me.” (John 6:45 ASV) And let’s also remember what John the apostle said: “But the anointing which ye have received of him abideth in you, and ye need not that any man teach you: but as the same anointing teacheth you of all things, and is truth, and is no lie, and even as it hath taught you, ye shall abide in him.” (1 John 2:27 KJV)
So, as said before: “Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.” (2 Timothy 2:15 KJV)
May God bless you as you seek to do His will. Amen.
Note: All the words in this article that are shown in italics are found in the different bible versions listed below. These are included to assist you in your study of God’s word:.
Note: all words in this article that are in italics are from in the bible.
Jesus knew that he must take our sins upon himself. "And he said, Abba, Father, all things are possible unto thee; take away this cup from me: nevertheless not what I will, but what thou wilt." (Mark 14:36) Jesus knew that he must suffer not only upon the cross, but spend three days and nights in hell as well.
To the Reader: This article concerns Jesus Christ the Son of God, who came in the likeness of sinful flesh (Romans 8:3-4). And we know that he did this not only to show us who God the Father is, but to reveal that he is the promised Messiah sent from God. So, after reading through this article, open your bible and do some studying for yourself my fellow Christians. Therefore, always: Be diligent to present yourself approved to God as a worker who does not need to be ashamed, accurately handling the word of truth. (2 Timothy 2:15 NASB20)
May God’s blessings be with you all. Amen.
“In the beginning was the word, and the word was with God, and what God was the word was. This word was in the beginning with God. Everything came to be through it, and apart from it nothing came to be that has come to be.” (John 1:1-3 REV)
Before getting too deep into this article, we must first touch on that passage above. Now, I must say that it would be difficult for me to explain this passage in detail. For the one whom our English text describes as the “Word” is called the “Logos” in the Greek. Now this word “Logos” has a deeper meaning than just the usage of “Word” itself. And yes, there are those who have attempted to explain their views in one form or another. However, it is quite clear that: “what God was the word was as well.” And it is also clear that the “Word” existed with God in the beginning and was involved in the creation of the heavens and the earth. For in the book of Genesis we read: “In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth. ... And God said, Let us make man in our image, after our likeness: and let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over the cattle, and over all the earth, and over every creeping thing that creepeth upon the earth. So God created man in his own image, in the image of God created he him; male and female created he them. (Genesis 1:1, 26-27 KJV) So, God said “let us make man,” thus indicating that there was more than one entity involved in creation. Wouldn’t you agree?
Below are a few comments pertaining to what was mentioned above:
Below are some scriptures showing that Jesus did exist before coming to earth as a man:
“Have this attitude in yourselves which was also in Christ Jesus, who, although He existed in the form of God, did not regard equality with God a thing to be grasped, but emptied Himself, taking the form of a bond-servant, and being made in the likeness of men. Being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross.” (Philippians 2:5-8 NASB95)
Now, as most of us know, the “Logos” (or “Word”) came to earth as a complete human being just like us. For he was miraculously conceived in the womb of the virgin Mary. For we first read: “And the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God. And behold, you will conceive in your womb and bear a son, and you shall call his name Jesus.” (Luke 1:30-31 ESV) Next, we read: “And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth.” (John 1:14 KJV) And according to Philippians above: he (Jesus) “emptied Himself, taking the form of a bond-servant, and being made in the likeness of men.” This we also know was God’s will and plan. “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved.” (John 3:16-17 KJV)
So, from what was already mentioned above, it’s clear that God gave his only begotten Son Jesus to show us not only who he (God the Father) is, but to reveal that he (Jesus) is our promised Messiah and Redeemer, the only way to God the Father. For Jesus said: “And this is life eternal, that they might know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent.” (John 17:3 KJV) John the apostle later reminded us of these words of Jesus by saying: “We know also that the Son of God has come and has given us understanding, so that we may know him who is true. And we are in him who is true by being in his Son Jesus Christ. This is the true God, and eternal life.” (1 John 5:19-20 NIV, ASV) Yes, Jesus came to reveal “him who is true” and “the only true God” which are both in reference to the God the Father himself. And again, Jesus came to show us that he himself is the only way to God the Father. For he said to Thomas: “I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.” (John 14:6 KJV) Therefore, by believing this, we can have the assurance of eternal life.
Therefore, Jesus is our promised Messiah (Savior) who not only spoke the words of God our Father, but lived and acted in such a way that we can see God working in him and through him. Therefore, Jesus could rightly say: “Have I been with you so long, and you still do not know me, Philip? Whoever has seen me has seen the Father. How can you say, 'Show us the Father'?” (John 14:9 ESV)
Below is Thayer’s Greek Lexicon definitions on the two Greek words: μορφῇ (the form) and ἐκένωσεν (emptied) Now, there may be some with differing opinions in one form or another. However, we should come away from all this with the knowledge that Jesus was fully human like us:
Jesus saith unto her, Touch me not; for I am not yet ascended to my Father: but go to my brethren, and say unto them, I ascend unto my Father, and your Father; and to my God, and your God. (John 20:17 KJV)
In that passage above, Jesus was equating himself with us by saying that God the Father was both his God and ours. We see this also to be true concerning those who followed him, for we read: “Then one said unto him, Behold, thy mother and thy brethren stand without, desiring to speak with thee. But he answered and said unto him that told him, Who is my mother? and who are my brethren? And he stretched forth his hand toward his disciples, and said, Behold my mother and my brethren! For whosoever shall do the will of my Father which is in heaven, the same is my brother, and sister, and mother.” (Matthew 12:47-50 KJV)
We can see the same thing happening in Hebrews: “For both he that sanctifieth and they that are sanctified are all of one: for which cause he is not ashamed to call them brethren, saying, I will declare thy name unto my brethren, In the midst of the congregation will I sing thy praise.” (Hebrews 2:11-12 KJV). Also, let’s take heed to what Paul the apostle said: “yet for us there is one God, the Father, from whom are all things and for whom we exist, and one Lord, Jesus Christ, through whom are all things and through whom we exist.” (1 Corinthians 8:6 ESV) Again, Paul said: “For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus; Who gave himself a ransom for all, to be testified in due time.” (1 Timothy 2:5-6 KJV) Therefore, from what we read so far, we can see that Jesus was complete human being like. Therefore, couldn't we all agree that he wasn't of the same nature as God the Father when he came in the flesh? Again, do your own studying of God's word concerning this my brothers and sister in Christ.
“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.” (James 1:13 KJV)
So, according to that passage above, God himself cannot be tempted with sin. However, we know that Jesus was tempted, for we read: “Then was Jesus led up of the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted of the devil.” (Matthew 4:1 KJV) And again we see this to be true where we read: “For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who in every respect has been tempted as we are, yet without sin.” (Hebrews 4:15 ESV) This is also true in Hebrew 2:18 where we read: “For because he himself has suffered when tempted, he is able to help those who are being tempted.” (Hebrews 2:18 ESV)
So, Jesus was tempted according to these passages. So, wouldn’t that mean he had the capacity to commit sin as well? I ask this because it wouldn’t make sense for him to be tested if he didn’t have the capability to give into those temptations. And again, this could only come about by him becoming completely human like us. However, the good news is he was able to resisted all temptation that he faced. And let’s be thankful for that my brothers and sister in Christ. I say this because our salvation was at stake in all this.
Below are some comments by others on what was said above:
“In the beginning was the word, and the word was with God, and what God was the word was.” (John 1:1 REV)
Now, all that being said, we shouldn’t view Jesus as some ordinary prophet that came and went. For before coming to this earth, he was the “Logos” (the Word) who was with God the Father. And we know that all things were made through him and for him. For we read concerning Jesus: “For by him all things were created, in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities - all things were created through him and for him.” (Colossians 1:16 ESV) So, we must understand that this is God’s beloved Son whom he gave to be a sacrifice for our sins. “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth on him should not perish, but have eternal life.” (John 3:16)
Also, let’s remember that: “In the days of his flesh, Jesus offered up prayers and supplications, with loud cries and tears, to him who was able to save him from death, and he was heard because of his reverence. Although he was a son, he learned obedience through what he suffered. And being made perfect, he became the source of eternal salvation to all who obey him, being designated by God a high priest after the order of Melchizedek.” (Hebrews 5:7-10 ESV) So, we see that Jesus himself was praying and crying out to God the Father to save him from the grips of hell itself. For this wasn’t concerning his physical death, because he did die. Therefore, Jesus was crying out that his soul would not be left in the torments of hell. (See Acts 2:23-32) All this Jesus endured for our sake. This is true love my brothers and sisters in Christ.
“Therefore God has highly exalted him and bestowed on him the name that is above every name, so that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.” (Philippians 2:9-11 KJV) Yes, Jesus is our Lord and Savior to whom we all shall bow down to. “Now may our Lord Jesus Christ himself, and God our Father, who loved us and gave us eternal comfort and good hope through grace, comfort your hearts and establish them in every good work and word.” (2 Thessalonians 2:16-17 KJV)
Below are some other scriptures pertaining to all what was mentioned above. I encourage you to go through them all and take to heart what’s being said. For we as a church must break away from the watered-down teachings that’s being preached in many churches today:
Note: Bible text used in this article are listed below.
“And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth.” (John 1:14)
To the Reader: I wrote this article with the hope that we as Christians can be like our forerunner, Jesus Christ. For we can see from the scriptures that he resisted all temptations that came his way. That’s because the Spirit of the Lord was upon him. For Jesus said: The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he hath anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor; he hath sent me to heal the brokenhearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised, (Luke 4:18 KJV) Therefore, he was able to please God his Father in everything he did. And it should be the same for us Christians today. Wouldn’t you agree?
Now, may God’s love, grace and mercy be with you all. Amen
“Now when all the people were baptized, and when Jesus also had been baptized and was praying, the heavens were opened, and the Holy Spirit descended on him in bodily form, like a dove; and a voice came from heaven, "You are my beloved Son; with you I am well pleased.” (Luke 3:21-22 ESV)
While being flesh and blood like us, our Savior Jesus was filled and led by the Holy Spirit. We can see this first happening after he was baptized by John the Baptist as quoted above. And just like us, we read that he was tested as well: “And Jesus, full of the Holy Spirit, returned from the Jordan and was led by the Spirit in the wilderness for forty days, being tempted by the devil. And he ate nothing during those days. And when they were ended, he was hungry.” (Luke 4:1-2 ESV) And let’s take note to what Peter said: “Fellow Israelites, listen to these words: This Jesus of Nazareth was a man attested to you by God with miracles, wonders, and signs that God did among you through him, just as you yourselves know. (Acts 2:22 CSB) So, God was working miracles and wonders in and through our Savior Jesus. And wouldn’t this include his ability to walk on water, casting out demons, foreseeing events and all other supernatural works? And these abilities were passed on not only to his early disciples, but to us today as well.
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. (James 1:13 KJV)
Now, we must realize that God himself cannot be tempted to do evil. However, being flesh and blood like us, Jesus was vulnerable to this world’s temptations. But we know according to the scriptures, he resisted all the temptation’s that came his way. That’s because he wanted to please God his Father. And let’s remember that: During his earthly life, he offered prayers and appeals with loud cries and tears to the one who was able to save him from death, and he was heard because of his reverence. Although he was the Son, he learned obedience from what he suffered. (Hebrews 5:7-8 CSB) And what was the outcome of him doing this, well: After he was perfected, he became the source of eternal salvation for all who obey him, and he was declared by God a high priest according to the order of Melchizedek. (Hebrews 5:9-10 CSB) Praise God for that my brothers and sisters in Christ. For our salvation was at stake.
So, Jesus was able to do the will of God the Father by the Holy Spirit which was upon him. We can see this to be true from these passages listed below:
“For if ye live after the flesh, ye shall die: but if ye through the Spirit do mortify the deeds of the body, ye shall live.” (Romans 8:13 KJV)
So, according to that passage above, we Christians should be walking after the Holy Spirit. For this is the only way we can put off all the sins of this world as our forerunner Jesus did. For we know that this is God’s will and desire for all of us who are in Christ. But we must also understand that we were steeped in sin before coming to Christ. Therefore, we are in a learning process where we may make a mistake now and then. For we first read: “My little children, I am writing these things to you so that you may not sin.” So, John says that it should be our goal not to sin. However, he goes on to say in that same verse: “But if anyone does sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous.” (1 John 2:1 ESV) So, if we do sin, we need to repent and ask God for forgiveness and do our best not to repeat it.
Now that being said, we should never say that we are not able to stop sinning. For scripture clearly says otherwise. For John then goes on to say: “Everyone who makes a practice of sinning also practices lawlessness; sin is lawlessness. You know that he appeared in order to take away sins, and in him there is no sin. No one who abides in him keeps on sinning; no one who keeps on sinning has either seen him or known him.” (1 John 3:4-6 ESV) And let’s keep in mind what Jesus himself said: “Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect.” (Matthew 5:48 KJV) Therefore, we are required to do our best by purify ourselves from all sins. Therefore: “Beloved, we are God's children now, and what we will be has not yet appeared; but we know that when he appears we shall be like him, because we shall see him as he is. And everyone who thus hopes in him purifies himself as he is pure.” (1 John 3:2-3 ESV)
“But the anointing which ye have received of him abideth in you, and ye need not that any man teach you: but as the same anointing teacheth you of all things, and is truth, and is no lie, and even as it hath taught you, ye shall abide in him.” (1 John 2:27 KJV)
So, where did John get his information concerning what was mention above? Well, it was by Jesus Christ himself. For we read: “But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, he will teach you all things and bring to your remembrance all that I have said to you.” (John 14:26 ESV) Yes, brothers and sister in Christ. You do not need to wait for some man in a pulpit to tell you what the bible says. For you can read and lean it for yourself because the Holy Spirit is within you. And yes, we do need leaders in the church for the work of the ministry and to keep things in order. But again, it’s the Holy Spirit in us who opens our understanding of God’s word. This is true whether it’s preached from the pulpit or we read it on our own at home.
Therefore, let’s resist all temptations as our forerunner did, Jesus Christ. For in him we have hope and eternal life by the mercy of God our Father. So fellow Christians, we need to crack open our bibles and start reading and: “Be diligent to present yourself approved to God as a worker who does not need to be ashamed, accurately handling the word of truth.” (2 Timothy 2:15 NASB20)
God bless you as you seek to do his well. Amen.
Note: Bible text that was used in this article have been listed below to aid in your study of God’s word.
(Bible passages are shown in italics)
For if ye live after the flesh, ye shall die: but if ye through the Spirit do mortify the deeds of the body, ye shall live. (Romans 8:13)
To the Reader: This article touches on some views that were not agreed upon by early Christians in the past as well as by use today. And one of those views was concerning whether or not Jesus (while being in the flesh) was fully God and man at the same time? So, to find the truth we must study God’s word and see what it has to say. So, after reading this article I encourage you to do a further study for yourself. For we are not just to take what we hear as facts. Therefore: “Be diligent to present yourself approved to God as a worker who does not need to be ashamed, accurately handling the word of truth.” (2 Timothy 2:15 NASB20) May we all have a deeper understanding of the goodness of our God.
May his blessing and grace be poured out upon you all. Amen.
“Therefore the Jews sought the more to kill him, because he not only had broken the sabbath, but said also that God was his Father, making himself equal with God.” (John 5:18 KJV)
Now, did Jesus really break the sabbath and claimed to be equal to God the Father? Well, let’s first see if he had broken the sabbath: “Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfil. For verily I say unto you, till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law, till all be fulfilled. Whosoever therefore shall break one of these least commandments, and shall teach men so, he shall be called the least in the kingdom of heaven: but whosoever shall do and teach them, the same shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven.” (Matthew 5:17-19 KJV) So, Jesus came to fulfill the law, not to destroy or break it. Therefore, since obeying the Sabbath day was part of the Ten Commandments, Jesus wouldn’t have broken it. “For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin.” (Hebrews 4:15 KJV)
Next, did Jesus really make himself equal with God by calling him Father? Well, Jesus did say for us to pray: “Our Father which are in heaven, Hallowed be thy name”? (Matthew 6:9 KJV). So, are we making ourselves equal with God by call him Father as well? Of course not. We can see the same thing happening where the Jews wanted to stone Jesus for saying: “I and my Father are one.” (John 10:30 KJV). For: “The Jews answered him, saying, For a good work we stone thee not; but for blasphemy; and because that thou, being a man, makest thyself God.” (John 10:33 KJV) But again, Jesus did say to God his Father: “Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word; That they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us: that the world may believe that thou hast sent me.” (John 17:20-21 KJV) So, does this make us Christians equal with God because we are one with both God the Father and Jesus as well? No, of course not.
“Ye have heard how I said unto you, I go away, and come again unto you. If ye loved me, ye would rejoice, because I said, I go unto the Father: for my Father is greater than I.” (John 14:28 KJV)
So, Jesus clearly admits that the Father is greater than he is in that passage above. Also, in Hebrews 2:9 we read: “But we see Jesus, who was made a little lower than the angels for the suffering of death, crowned with glory and honor; that he by the grace of God should taste death for every man. ... Forasmuch then as the children are partakers of flesh and blood, he also himself likewise took part of the same; that through death he might destroy him that had the power of death, that is, the devil; And deliver them who through fear of death were all their lifetime subject to bondage.” (Hebrews 2:9, 14-15 KJV) So, it clearly says that Jesus “was made a little lower than the angels.”
And finally, let’s take heed to what Jesus said: “And this is life eternal, that they might know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent.” (John 17:3 KJV) So, even though Jesus: “In the beginning was the word, and the word was with God, and what God was the word was;” he became fully human like us. And while being fully human, he was rightly declaring that God the Father is the only true God. We can see this also to be true where John the apostle said: “We know also that the Son of God has come and has given us understanding, so that we may know him who is true. And we are in him who is true by being in his Son Jesus Christ. This is the true God and eternal life.” (1 John 5:20 NIV, ASV) So, John clearly said that Jesus came to revel “him who is true” which we know is God the Father himself. Also, in Paul the apostle’s writings, he begins by saying: “Grace be to you and peace from God the Father, and from our Lord Jesus Christ” (Galatians 1:3 KJV). So, the apostle Paul is making it clear that God is our Father and Jesus is our Lord and Savior.
So, that all being said, wouldn’t the claim: “makest thyself God” be based upon a misunderstanding of who Jesus was? Therefore, we should all agree that Jesus didn’t break the Sabbath nor was he of the same nature as God the Father when he came in the flesh? For he became fully human in order to show us the way to God the Father and to take upon himself the sins of the world. So: “Have this attitude in yourselves which was also in Christ Jesus, who, although he existed in the form of God, did not regard equality with God a thing to be grasped, but emptied himself, taking the form of a bond-servant, and being made in the likeness of men. Being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross.” (Philippians 2:5-8 NASB95) Yes, brothers and sister in Christ, this is a true act of love by both God our Father and Jesus as well.
“Jesus said these things and lifting up his eyes to heaven, said, “Father, the hour has come. Glorify your Son so that the Son can glorify you, just as you gave him authority over all flesh so that he could give life in the age to come to all those you have given him. And this is life in the age to come, that they know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom you have sent. I glorified you on the earth by accomplishing the work that you have given me to do. And now, Father, glorify me together with yourself with the glory that I had with you before the world was.” (John 17:1-5 REV)
Now that all being said, we shouldn’t be viewing Jesus as some ordinary prophet that came and went. So, even though Jesus admitted that the only true God was the Father himself, he still is to be highly exalted above every name as God’s word says. “Therefore God has highly exalted him and bestowed on him the name that is above every name, so that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.” (Philippians 2:9-11 ESV)
“Now may our Lord Jesus Christ himself, and God our Father, who loved us and gave us eternal comfort and good hope through grace, comfort your hearts and establish them in every good work and word.” (2 Thessalonians 2:16-17 ESV) Amen.
Below are some other scriptures pertaining to all what was mentioned above. I encourage you to go through them all and take to heart what’s being said. For we as a church must break away from the watered-down teachings that’s being preached in many churches today:
God bless you as you seek to do His will. Amen.
(Note: Bible versions used in this article have been noted below to assist in your study of God’s word)
“And this is life eternal, that they might know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent.” (John 17:3)
To the Reader: This article clearly shows where Jesus was for those three days and nights after his crucifixion. And because it mainly concerns this event, one must read and study the bible to lean what lead up to this. Also, it’s important for us to know not only who Jesus is and what he did for us, but to have a clear understanding of his relationship with God the Father as well. Therefore, I encourage you my fellow Christian to study the word of God for yourself and: “Be diligent to present yourself approved to God as a worker who does not need to be ashamed, accurately handling the word of truth.” (2 Timothy 2:15 NASB20) May God bless you and keep you in his love. Amen.
“For as Jonah was three days and three nights in the whale’s belly: so shall the Son of man be three days and three nights in the heart of the earth.” (Matthew 12:40 WEB)
In that passage above, Jesus was letting his followers know that his time inside the earth wasn’t going to be pleasant. And in order for us to know what it was like for him there, we need to see how it was for Jonah himself. “Then Jonah prayed unto the LORD his God out of the fish's belly, And said, I cried by reason of mine affliction unto the LORD, and he heard me; out of the belly of hell cried I, and thou heardest my voice.” (Jonah 2:1-2 KJV) So, we can see that Jonah was experiencing “affliction” and quoted it as being in “the belly of hell.” And let’s remember that Jesus called Jonah a prophet, for he said: “An evil and adulterous generation seeketh after a sign; and there shall no sign be given to it but the sign of Jonah the prophet” (Matthew 12:39 ASV).
So again, Jesus in a round-about-way was letting his followers know that he is going to suffer in hell. We can see this to be true as well in the book of Hebrews where we read: “Who in the days of his flesh, when he had offered up prayers and supplications with strong crying and tears unto him that was able to save him from death, and was heard in that he feared; Though he were a Son, yet learned he obedience by the things which he suffered; And being made perfect, he became the author of eternal salvation unto all them that obey him; Called of God an high priest after the order of Melchizedek.” (Hebrews 5:7-10 KJV) So, we read that Jesus was making a plea to God that he would “save him from death” and that he “was heard in that he feared.”
Now, it’s obvious that this passage above had nothing to do with Christ’s physical death. For we know that he was crucified and put to death. Therefore, Jesus was asking that his soul would not be left in hell during those three days and nights. For Peter said: “Him, being delivered by the determined purpose and foreknowledge of God, you have taken by lawless hands, have crucified, and put to death; whom God raised up, having loosed the pains of death, because it was not possible that He should be held by it.” (Acts 2:23-24 NKJV) So again, Jesus was “loosed” (saved) from “the pains of death.” So what pains are there in death other than the fires of hell itself?
So, after three days of torment, Jesus was release from the “pains of death.” And let’s remember what David said concerning Jesus: “Therefore did my heart rejoice, and my tongue was glad; moreover also my flesh shall rest in hope: Because thou wilt not leave my soul in hell, neither wilt thou suffer thine Holy One to see corruption. Thou hast made known to me the ways of life; thou shalt make me full of joy with thy countenance. ... He seeing this before spake of the resurrection of Christ, that his soul was not left in hell, neither his flesh did see corruption. This Jesus hath God raised up, whereof we all are witnesses.” (Acts 2:25-28, 31- 32 KJV) Yes, God released Jesus out of hell after he spent three days and night there.
“And being in hell, lifted up his eyes, he sees Abraham afar off and Lazarus in his bosom. And calling he said, Father Abraham, have mercy on me and send Lazarus so that he may dip the tip of his finger in water and cool my tongue, for I am tormented in this flame.” (Luke 16:23-24 KJ3)
Now, from the account of the rich man and Lazarus, we can clearly see that the rich man after his death was is a place of torment inside the earth called hell. But on the other hand, Lazarus and the rest of God’s departed saints were in a place of paradise. And let’s also take note that while looking upward from hell, the rich man saw Lazarus in the arms of Abraham and cried out for mercy. But how did the rich man know that this was Abraham whom he never seen before, way off in some distant place? I ask this because some claim that God’s departed saints are also inside the earth in a place called Abraham’s Bosom. Supposedly, they say it was a great distance off from hell where both can see each other.
So, is this claim above really true? For wouldn’t this be like you sitting in a packed stadium and recognizing a famous radio host on the other side of the field, whom you never seen nor heard speak before. And then on top of that, being able to communicate to him as well? So instead, wouldn’t this be some vision from God that the rich man saw while looking up, just as it was for Stephen the martyr who while looking up, saw Jesus standing next to God? Therefore, both of these visions could easily be a supernatural events occurring for that moment in time. And as we already have read earlier, if this was a place of paradise inside the earth as some claim, why was our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ rejoicing that his soul was not left there? For again, wasn’t Abraham and all the rest of God’s saints there (some that would already have been there for a few hundred years or more)?
For videos concerning Jesus in hell click the link below:
“Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us” (Hebrews 12:1 KJV)
So, from all what has been said, I’m convinced that there is no place called Abraham bosom inside the earth. For this wasn’t held nor supported by Jesus nor his early disciples. Therefore, according to what we already read above, hell is a place of torment and nothing else. And we can see that our Savior Jesus Christ went there on our behalf. For he loved us and gave himself for use, taking upon himself all of our sins. This was the Fathers will, “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved.” (John 3:16-17 KJV)
Now you may be asking, where is Abraham and all the saints of God? Well, what did that scripture say above? Didn’t it say “we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses”? So, it sounds more like we’re surrounded by them and they’re quite alive as well, wouldn’t you agree? Also, let’s take not concerning what God himself said: “I am the God of Abraham, and the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob? God is not the God of the dead, but of the living.” (Matthew 22:32 KJV) Yes, those who have died in faith are alive in the realm of the departed saints. But on the other hand, those who have died in their sins are alive as well in a place of torment.
Other Scriptures to consider:
God bless you as you seek to do his well. Amen.
Note: Bible text used in this article are listed below to assist you in your study of God's word:
To the Reader: So, who raised who? Did Jesus raise himself, or was it an act of God the Father? Well, this article digs deep into the scriptures to help us find the answer to this question. So, I encourage you my brothers and sisters in Christ to always study the word of God for ourselves. This way we can put away any teachings that may not line up with the truth. So, let’s always follow the leading and teaching of the Holy Spirit and not that which is of man. Therefore: “Be diligent to present yourself approved to God as a worker who does not need to be ashamed, accurately handling the word of truth.” (2 Timothy 2:15 NASB20)
God’s mercy be with you all. Amen.
“So the Jews said to him, “What sign do you show us for doing these things?” Jesus answered them, “Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up”.” (John 2:18-19 ESV)
Above is one of those passages that needs to be examined closely. For we must ask ourselves, did Jesus raise himself up? Well, to find out we need examine what the scriptures have to say. First, we have the apostle Peter who said: “Him, being delivered by the determinate counsel and foreknowledge of God, ye have taken, and by wicked hands have crucified and slain: Whom God hath raised up, having loosed the pains of death: because it was not possible that he should be holden of it.” (Acts 2:23-24 KJV) Again Peter said: “Men and brethren, let me freely speak unto you of the patriarch David, that he is both dead and buried, and his sepulcher is with us unto this day. Therefore being a prophet, and knowing that God had sworn with an oath to him, that of the fruit of his loins, according to the flesh, he would raise up Christ to sit on his throne; He seeing this before spake of the resurrection of Christ, that his soul was not left in hell, neither his flesh did see corruption. This Jesus hath God raised up, whereof we all are witnesses.” (Acts 2:29-32 KJV)
So, according to those passages above, God the Father was the one who raised up Jesus. And let’s remember that Jesus himself was a prophet and spoke the words of God. For Moses himself declared this when he said: “The LORD thy God will raise up unto thee a Prophet from the midst of thee, of thy brethren, like unto me; unto him ye shall hearken” (Deuteronomy 18:15 KJV) So, when Jesus said: “I will raise it up,” wouldn’t he be simply prophesying what God the Father was going to do? And wouldn’t that be the fact that God the Father would raise him up from the dead? For we read: “When therefore he was risen from the dead, his disciples remembered that he had said this unto them; and they believed the scripture, and the word which Jesus had said.” (John 2:22 KJV) Yes, it says that they believed the scriptures. And wouldn’t this include: “For thou wilt not leave my soul in hell; neither wilt thou suffer thine Holy One to see corruption.” (Psalm 16:10 KJV) So, from what we already read, God the Father is the one who raised up Jesus.
Below are some comments from others:
Below are other Scriptures showing that it wasn't Jesus who raise himself from the dead, but God the Father who did it:
Below are some scriptures showing that Jesus was a prophet as Moses foretold:
“And if you call on him as Father who judges impartially according to each one's deeds, conduct yourselves with fear throughout the time of your exile, knowing that you were ransomed from the futile ways inherited from your forefathers, not with perishable things such as silver or gold, but with the precious blood of Christ, like that of a lamb without blemish or spot. He was foreknown before the foundation of the world but was made manifest in the last times for the sake of you who through him are believers in God, who raised him from the dead and gave him glory, so that your faith and hope are in God.” (1 Peter 1:17-21 KJV)
So again, form all what was mentioned above, we can clearly see that Jesus had nothing to do with his resurrection; except for the fact that he trusted that God would perform it and he live a perfect life. For as we read before: “Therefore did my heart rejoice, and my tongue was glad; moreover also my flesh shall rest in hope: Because thou wilt not leave my soul in hell, neither wilt thou suffer thine Holy One to see corruption.” (Acts 2:26-27 KJV) Therefore, let us trust the word of God and not any false teachings of man. So: “Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.” (2 Timothy 2:15 KJV)
God bless you as you seek to do his well. Amen
Note: Bible texts used in this article are listed below to assist you in your study of God’s word:
To the Reader: Now, those of you who were baptized, was it done by someone saying: “I baptize you in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit”? Well, is that what bible really tells us to do. For if we do a close study of God’s word, we can see that the answer is no. Now, I’m not trying to cause anyone to doubt their salvation though this article. For I personally believe we are saved no matter how we were baptized. However, this shouldn’t stop us from pointing out the errors in our traditions. Therefore, I encourage you my fellow Christians to not only consider what this article is saying on this topic, but: “Be diligent to present yourself approved to God as a worker who does not need to be ashamed, accurately handling the word of truth.” (2 Timothy 2:15 NASB20) God's grace be with you all. Amen.
“Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen.” (Matthew 28:19-20 KJV)
Many of use (if not almost all) who were baptized may recall being baptized in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. But, is this correct? I ask this because we must first realize that the word's Father, Son and Holy Spirit are not names, but only titles. For even within our own families, we have earthly fathers, mothers, brothers, and sisters. So, if someone asked you what’s you sisters name, are you going to tell them it’s sister? No, of course not. Therefore, we must dive deeper into the meaning of the word “name” mentioned above. First, we must realize that this word “name” is in the singular tense, not the plural. And as mentioned above, the words Father, Son and Holy Spirit are only titles. Therefore, including them in the act of baptism wouldn’t make any sense at all. So, what name should we be baptizing in. Well, scripture itself has the answer to all this. So, please continue to read below.
“If we this day are judged for a good deed done to a helpless man, by what means he has been made well, let it be known to you all, and to all the people of Israel, that by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom you crucified, whom God raised from the dead, by Him this man stands here before you whole.” (Acts 4:9-10 NKJV)
It is clear from for that passage above that it is only through Jesus Christ himself that we can be saved. So, being baptized in his name would make sense. But you may still be questioning on why did it say “Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit,” (Matthew 28:19 NKJV). Well, the answer may lie in the meaning of the word Jesus itself. For the name Jesus is the Greek form of the Hebrew name Joshua. Now, according to Strong’s Definitions and the Gesenius' Hebrew-Chaldee Lexicon, it says that it means the name of God combined with the word “saved” or “salvation.” And isn’t this what Jesus came to do? For our salvation is accomplished through both God our Father and our Savior Jesus as well as by the Holy Spirit who dwells within us? Therefore, wouldn’t it be appropriate to be baptizing into the name Jesus?
“And he said to him, ‘Truly I say to you today, you will be with me in the Paradise.’” (Luke 23:43 REV)
Now, that all being said, we shouldn’t panic and start thinking that we’re not truly saved because we were baptized differently. For God knows our hearts and therefore, we should have comfort knowing that we are saved and washed in the blood of Christ. And let’s remember that the thief who never got baptized was promised that he would be with Jesus in paradise. However, if you haven’t been baptized yet, I encourage you to make the effort to get it done. For as the apostle Peter said above: “Repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins, and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. For the promise is for you and for your children and for all who are far off, everyone whom the Lord our God calls to himself.” (Acts 2:38-39 ESV) Amen.
Check-out these videos below on baptizing in Jesus Name:
All passages other than the King James Version are noted below:
"This Jesus is the stone that was rejected by you, the builders, which has become the cornerstone. And there is salvation in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved." (Acts 4:11-12 ESV)
“For I have received of the Lord that which also I delivered unto you, That the Lord Jesus the same night in which he was betrayed took bread: And when he had given thanks, he brake it, and said, Take, eat: this is my body, which is broken for you: this do in remembrance of me. After the same manner also he took the cup, when he had supped, saying, This cup is the new testament in my blood: this do ye, as oft as ye drink it, in remembrance of me. For as often as ye eat this bread, and drink this cup, ye do shew the Lord's death till he come.” (1 Corinthians 11:23-26 KJV)
Our gathering for communion should be a time to reflect on the price that has been paid for our sins. For we first read concerning the body of Jesus: “And he took bread, and gave thanks, and brake it, and gave unto them, saying, This is my body which is given for you: this do in remembrance of me.” (Luke 22:19 KJV) So, we read that Jesus said: “this do in remembrance of me.” Next, we read: “And he took the cup, and gave thanks, and gave it to them, saying, Drink ye all of it; For this is my blood of the new testament, which is shed for many for the remission of sins.” (Matthew 26:27-28 KJV)
Now, during communion, we may hear some Church leadership declare that we must first examine ourselves for any sin in our lives before partaking of the bread and wine. But is that what Jesus said and meant? Well, according to what we already read above, he said: “this do in remembrance of me.” So, why do some say that we must examine ourselves first for any sin? Are they not taking the words of the apostle Paul out of context? For Paul first said: “When ye come together therefore into one place, this is not to eat the Lord's supper. For in eating every one taketh before other his own supper: and one is hungry, and another is drunken.” (1 Corinthians 11:20-21 KJV) So, we see that they were treating this as some common ordinary meal. However, down a few verses Paul makes it clear what this meal should be all about, for he said: “For as often as ye eat this bread, and drink this cup, ye do shew the Lord's death till he come.” (1 Corinthians 11:26 KJV)
Yes, brothers and sisters in Christ, this meal is to be all about the life and death of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
“Whoever, therefore, eats the bread or drinks the cup of the Lord in an unworthy manner will be guilty concerning the body and blood of the Lord.” (1 Corinthians 11:27 ESV)
Wow, that’s a stern warning for us who partake of the Lord’s supper. So, what is this “unworthy manner” that Paul is talking about in that passage above? Well, let’s continue reading to find out. For he goes on to say: “But let a man examine himself, and so let him eat of that bread, and drink of that cup. For he that eateth and drinketh unworthily, eateth and drinketh damnation to himself, not discerning the Lord's body.” (1 Corinthians 11:28-29 KJV) Well, there you go. The unworthy manner is not some unconfessed sin in our lives, but it’s not properly discerning the body and blood of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Therefore, as we already read above, one is “guilty concerning the body and blood of the Lord,” and “drinketh damnation to himself” if they eat “not discerning the Lord’s body.” Therefore: “That is why many of you are weak and ill, and some have died.” (1 Corinthians 11:30 ESV) Wow, we can see how important it is to take this meal seriously.
Therefore, we should stop teaching this false doctrine of unconfessed sin. I say this because there may be some unconfessed sin that comes to mind during or even after we have partaken. And because of this false teaching, one could feel guilty and thus end up feeling even worse than before. For let’s face it, if we really had to examine ourselves to see if there is any unconfessed sin in our lives, would any of us be able to partake of communion? So please, let’s keep things in context and not add unbiblical teachings that can wound one’s conscience. God help us all, amen.
God bless you as you seek to do his will. Amen
Note: Bible text used in this article are listed below to add in your study of God’s word:
We often hear that we're not to eat nor dink the communion bread and wine in an unworthy manner. But what is that unworthy manner? Unfortunately, many preachers get this wrong. So, please watch this video on what that unworthy manner really is.
“and Jacob fathered Joseph the father of Mary, from whom was born Jesus, who is called Christ.” (Matthew 1:16 REV)
It’s so easy to follow traditions that have been handed down over the years. However, when those traditions involve the Gospel of Jesus Christ, we should make sure it is based on truth. So, let’s examine Matthew’s account of the genealogy. First off, according to the majority of today’s teaching, there is a big problem. For there are supposed to be three sets of fourteen generations. However, if we add all the names mentioned in Matthew’s genealogy, we would see that it only has thirteen generations.
So, how can this be solved so that Matthew’s gospel would be true? Well, in the “Aramaic English New Testament,” Joseph is recorded as the “guardian” (or the “father”) of Mary instead of her husband. And in Luke’s account of the genealogy, Joseph would then be the literal son of Heli instead of his son-in-law as some proclaim. And the Aramaic translation is not alone in this. For the “Revised English Version” also shows that Joseph is the “father” of Mary in Matthew’s account as well. This would mean that Mary's father and husband both share the same names which wouldn’t be uncommon. For if we read through Luke’s genealogy account, there are others who are named “Joseph” as well.
Now, let’s remember that in the Greek, there is no distinct word for husband or for wife. It simply means a man or a woman. This would be true whether one is single or married. The only way to know how these words are being used is by the context of the passage itself. Therefore, one can be totally wrong by asserting that the passage in Matthew’s gospel is saying “Joseph the husband of Mary.” This would even be more true in light of the confusion surrounding the missing generation in Matthew’s account already covered above. But in the Aramaic language there is a distinct word for husband. And we see this word for husband being used in verse 19 but not in verse 16 of Matthew’s gospel. Therefore, the word used in verse 16 can mean a guardian or even father.
This all being said, Matthew’s account would be about Mary’s genealogy while Luke’s is about Joseph her husband. Therefore, I personally believe that these two translations (the Aramaic English New Testament, Revised English version as well as a few others) are declaring the truth. This would clearly solve the confusion surrounding these two genealogies. For there are one too many interpretations (which don’t make sense) that are trying to resolve the traditional account found in most of our bibles.
Below are a few bibles that do show that Joseph was not the husband of Mary in verse 16 of Matthew's bible:
Below are the commentaries from those two bible versions mentioned above:
So, in closing I just want to remind you that there are so many false interpretations that have crept into our churches over the years. This would be true whether it’s the Catholic church, Protenant church, or all the others that are out there. Therefore, it’s our job as Christians to: “Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.” (2 Timothy 2:15 KJV) Yes, test all thing and be like those Bereans, for: “These were more noble than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so.” (Acts 17:11 KJV) So, the next time your local church teaches you something, go home and open up your own bible and test what was said. Pray that the Holy Spirit would open up your eyes to always test what’s being said. Therefore, we must be diligent to walk after the Spirit, and: “Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.” (Hebrews 12:2 KJV)
May God bless you as you seek to do His will. Amen.
Note: Bible versions used in this article are listed below to assist in your study on God’s word:
“When the head steward tasted the water that had been turned to wine, not knowing where it came from (though the servants who had drawn the water knew), he called the bridegroom and said to him, ‘Everyone serves the good wine first, and then the cheaper wine when the guests are drunk. You have kept the good wine until now!’” (John 2:9-10 NET)
Drinking wine is one of those topics that has been so misunderstood by the church. For there are sincere Christians on both sides who have opposing views in one degree or another. Some go so far to say that Jesus made simple ordinary grape juice at the wedding in Cana and thus condemn the use of any alcohol. And on the other hand, others say Jesus not only made wine, but drank it as well. So, can we really find the truth in all this? Are there any passages in our bibles that can put this debate to rest? Well, let’s dive into God’s word and see for ourselves.
So, let’s start in John’s gospel where Jesus saved a wedding that was about to go sour. For part way through a wedding that he, his mother and his disciples attended, they ran out of wine. And when Jesus’ mother stepped up to the plate and got him (Jesus) involved, he ended up making “good wine” from plain old water. And what happened next? Well: “When the head steward tasted the water that had been turned to wine, not knowing where it came from (though the servants who had drawn the water knew), he called the bridegroom and said to him, ‘Everyone serves the good wine first, and then the cheaper wine when the guests are drunk. You have kept the good wine until now!’” (John 2:9-10 NET) So, the head steward who tasted the wine that Jesus made said it was “good wine.” And not only did he say that, but he admitted that the “good wine” is one that can get the guests drunk. Therefore, Jesus did make fermented wine according to the “head steward” of the wedding.
Now, let’s look at another passage that may help clear up this wine debate. “Now when you come together at the same place, you are not really eating the Lord’s Supper. For when it is time to eat, everyone proceeds with his own supper. One is hungry and another becomes drunk. Do you not have houses so that you can eat and drink? Or are you trying to show contempt for the church of God by shaming those who have nothing? What should I say to you? Should I praise you? I will not praise you for this!” (1 Corinthians 11:20-22 NET) So, we see the same Greek word being used for drunkenness as before. So, shouldn’t this should stop all mouths that say the consumption of alcohol by Christians is wrong? I do believe so my brothers and sisters in Christ. (Please note: the word used for “drunk” in both of these passage above is the Greek word: “methuo,” which means “intoxication.”)
“Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead, be filled with the Spirit, speaking to one another with psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit. Sing and make music from your heart to the Lord, always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.” (Ephesians 5:18-20 NIV)
Now, that being said, we must admit that getting drunk is a sin according to scripture. And if abused to the point of one being a continues drunkard, it can harm that person’s relationship with God and even prevent them from entering into his Kingdom. (1Corinthians 6:9-10) However, that doesn’t mean that you throw the baby out with the bathwater. Therefore, we shouldn’t demonize something just because there are those that abuse it. Anything can be abused my brothers and sisters in Christ. Sex can be abused. So, does that mean everybody should become celibate because there are men, women, children, and yes, even animals being sexually violated all over the world? Of course not. So, why should we treat drinking wine differently?
So then, enjoying a glass of wine, a bottle of beer or some other alcoholic beverage is not a sin as long as you refrain from getting intoxicated. And let’s remember that Jesus himself said: “For John came neither eating nor drinking, and they say, ‘He has a demon.’ The Son of Man came eating and drinking, and they say, ‘Look at him! A glutton and a drunkard, a friend of tax collectors and sinners!’ Yet wisdom is justified by her deeds.” (Matthew 11:18-19 ESV) So, they were falsely accusing Jesus of getting drunk. But that being said, doesn’t this also show us that he did drink fermented wine while hanging out with sinners? For why else would they say it.
This all being said, we see that there are those who do drink wine and there are those who refrain from drinking wine. Therefore, those who choose not to drink should not condemn nor look down on those who do. Also, those who do drink wine should not look down nor pressure anyone to make them drink. And let’s take note to what Paul the apostle said: “Therefore let us stop passing judgment on one another. Instead, make up your mind not to put any stumbling block or obstacle in the way of a brother or sister. I am convinced, being fully persuaded in the Lord Jesus, that nothing is unclean in itself. But if anyone regards something as unclean, then for that person it is unclean. ... So whatever you believe about these things keep between yourself and God. Blessed is the one who does not condemn himself by what he approves.” (Romans 14:13-14, 22 NIV)
Below are some Benefits of Wine:
Below are the Issues of drinking Wine:
Bible versions used in this article are listed below to assist you in your study of God's Word:
He causeth the grass to grow for the cattle, And herb for the service of man; That he may bring forth food out of the earth, And wine that maketh glad the heart of man, And oil to make his face to shine, And bread that strengtheneth man's heart. (Psalm 104:14-15 ASV)
Copyright © 2024 Written4Today - All Rights Reserved.
We use cookies to analyze website traffic and optimize your website experience. By accepting our use of cookies, your data will be aggregated with all other user data.