The Sabbath

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The Sabbath 

First I want to applaud Cathy. You used some of the same scripture I was pulling together. You did a great job and I will try to expand a little farther on this topic. Thank You!

After I was Born Again (Spiritual Birth) I searched for the Sabbath in the New Testament for nearly a month and then one day the Holy Spirit revealed it to me. I could find reference to all the other Ten Commandments in the New Testament and they are all still viable, but I could not find a clear understanding of the Sabbath. This is because Jesus is the Sabbath. He is the Lord of the Sabbath. He is the creator of the Sabbath. The Sabbath was created for man to rest in the Sabbath. Jesus came to earth to give us rest in Him when we are Born Again (In other words becoming True Believers, are Saved, have a Spiritual Birth, or become True Christians are all interchangeable terms meaning Born Again.). When we fully understand in our heart and not just a head knowledge of why Jesus came, and had to died on the Cross in our place, then and only then can we place our faith in the finished works of the Cross and totally rest in Jesus arms.

Lets define what the Sabbath is and its purpose. The Sabbath was created for man to rest from his toils, cares, and anxieties of the world. It is to give him an opportunity to shift his attention from earthly concerns to the affairs of eternal life. It was a kind provision for man that he might refresh his body by relaxing his labors, that he might have undisturbed time to seek the consolation of God to cheer him in the anxieties and sorrows of a troubled world, and that he might render to God that homage which is most justly due to him as the Creator, Preserver, Benefactor, and Redeemer of the world. With this being said thus far I think you are probably starting to get a clear picture of the Sabbath in New Testament times. Mark 2:27 KJV And he said unto them, The sabbath was made for man, and not man for the Sabbath.

In the Old Testament the 7^th day of the week, Saturday, was the Sabbath. People of the Apostles times, speaking of the Jewish people not the Gentiles, were living by trying to keep the laws and not placing their faith in God. Living by faith is what Abraham and Job did. The book of Job is truly an inspiration for those that think their life is tuff and want to see what true faith is. Job never doubted God and was faithful to the end.

In the New Testament Jesus became the Sabbath when He died for us on the Cross. Jesus was the perfect sacrifice because He was without sin. He defeated Satan and had to die in our place because no matter how hard we try, we cannot help but sin. Why, because of the fall of Adam every human being born on earth is born with a sin nature/original sin. This is why we cannot keep the Ten Commandments and be righteous in Gods eyes. In God’s eyes if we break one Commandment, it is like breaking them all. If we pop a grape or two in our mouth at the grocery store to see which bunch is sweeter, we become a thief, we have stolen. In God’s eyes we aren’t any better than a murderer. James 2:10 KJV For whosoever shall keep the whole law, and yet offend in one point, he is guilty of all. This is why Jesus died on the Cross for us. He defeated Satan and because He did this He performed this act of love and sacrifice, so that whosoever believes in this and places their faith in Jesus and what he did on the Cross can have eternal life. John 3:3-7 KJV Jesus answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.  4 Nicodemus saith unto him, How can a man be born when he is old? Can he enter the second time into his mother's womb, and be born?  5 Jesus answered, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God.  6 That which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit.  7 Marvel not that I said unto thee, Ye must be born again. John 3:16 KJV 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.

Ok are you with me so far? I hope so. Now we have established that Jesus is the Sabbath and the following verses should make sense. Mark 2:28 KJV Therefore the Son of man is Lord also of the Sabbath. Matthew 11:28-30 KJV Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.  29 Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls.  30 For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light. Hebrews 4:10 KJV For he that is entered into his rest, he also hath ceased from his own works, as God did from his. To clarify this verse in our English terms; all who have entered into God's rest have rested from their labors, just as God did after creating the world.

This now brings us to what day of the week in New Testament times, is the Sabbath? There are two frames of mind. One is being the first day of the week which is what the Apostles and the True Church of God (that was started on the day of Pentecost; Book of Acts), observed. The other Paul talks about in the Book of Romans, and I will get to that farther on. Jesus rose on the first day of the week (Sunday), the first gathering of the Apostles was on the first day of the week, the believers in Acts gathered on the first day of the week, etc. I really don’t know if Constantine declared the first day of the week as the Sabbath, but I do know that approximately 312 AD he declared that all of the Roman Empire, which was pretty much all of Europe at that time, to convert to Christianity. Here is just a few of the verses that verify the first day of the week. The resurrection; Matthew 28:1 KJV In the end of the sabbath, as it began to dawn toward the first day of the week, came Mary Magdalene and the other Mary to see the sepulchre. John 20:17-19 KJV 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.  18 Mary Magdalene came and told the disciples that she had seen the Lord, and that he had spoken these things unto her. 19 Then the same day at evening, being the first day of the week, when the doors were shut where the disciples were assembled for fear of the Jews, came Jesus and stood in the midst, and saith unto them, Peace be unto you. Acts 20:7 KJV And upon the first day of the week, when the disciples came together to break bread, Paul preached unto them, ready to depart on the morrow; and continued his speech until midnight. 1Corinthians 16:1 ,2 KJV Now concerning the collection for the saints, as I have given order to the churches of Galatia, even so do ye. 2 Upon the first day of the week let every one of you lay by him in store, as God hath prospered him, that there be no gatherings when I come. Upon the first day of the week let everyone of you lay by him in store, is referring to their gathering together on the first day of the week for fellowship and worship. Paul was talking about tithing.

Now to conclude this with what day in current times is actually the Sabbath. This is where Paul’s statement to the Romans comes in. Romans 14:5 KJV One man esteemeth one day above another: another esteemeth every day alike. Let every man be fully persuaded in his own mind. This verse came to life for me after I was Born Again and came to understand the Sabbath. After I had my Spiritual Birth I couldn’t get enough of God’s Word and to this day I still spend an average of 1-2 hours daily in the Word. First thing I think of when I wake up in the morning is Jesus, the last thing on my mind before going to sleep is Jesus, when I wake up in the middle of the night, Jesus is on my mind. Because of the love I have for Jesus and the thankfulness of Him dying on the Cross in my place, every day is the Sabbath, and I also go to fellowship with other True Believes and worship our Lord on Sunday because of this love.

About now your thinking that is a lot of time in the Word, and yes it is. I only watch a couple hours of TV per week which is my choosing because of the garbage that is on it. My heart’s desire is to spread the Gospel of Jesus Christ and help people fully understand what the Bible says. That is why I put together email Bible Studies, post Bible Studies on a blog that goes worldwide, and conduct Bible Studies.

So with that said a Born Again Saint can pick any or all days of the week to deem as the Sabbath because Jesus is the Sabbath and we rest in His arms when we place our total faith in Him for all things as Job did. Just don’t fall back into the old way of thinking and go back to practicing law and mans principles. Paul warns us about this in Galatians because the Jewish people there were invoking the converts of True Christianity to go back to honoring Saturday as the Sabbath. The Jewish people and some religion of today are still trying to live by law and not faith. Galatians 4:9 KJV But now, after that ye have known God, or rather are known of God, how turn ye again to the weak and beggarly elements, whereunto ye desire again to be in bondage? What this verse is saying in plain English is this; now that you know God, and have had a spiritual birth, why are you turning back to those weak and miserable principles of religion and manmade laws? Do you wish to be enslaved by them all over again like you were before you came to know and believe in Jesus Christ and the finished work of the Cross?  Why are you  observing special days and months and seasons and years?

I truly hope I have explained this in a fashion to be understood by all. Sometimes I fail miserably in explaining what scripture is saying. Feel free to contact me if I didn’t explain a part for full comprehension.

God Bless!

Romans 1:16 For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ,

for it is the power of God to salvation for everyone who believes…...

Psalms 51:10 Create in me a clean heart, O God, And renew a steadfast spirit within me.

John 3:3 Jesus answered and said to him, "Most assuredly, I say to you,

unless one is born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God."

http://jesus-christ-spiritual-food.blogspot.com/

Bill Wiesbrock

wiesbrbj@gmail.com

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

1-2-2013 Vol. 6 Part 52 Book of Romans (Romans 15:22-33)

Note: To download/print the document, click on the title below.

1-2-2013 Vol. 6 Part 52 Book of Romans

Psalms 86:1-17 A Prayer of David. Bow down Your ear, O LORD, hear me; For I am poor and needy. Preserve my life, for I am holy; You are my God; Save Your servant who trusts in You! Be merciful to me, O Lord, For I cry to You all day long. Rejoice the soul of Your servant, For to You, O Lord, I lift up my soul. For You, Lord, are good, and ready to forgive, And abundant in mercy to all those who call upon You. Give ear, O LORD, to my prayer; And attend to the voice of my supplications. In the day of my trouble I will call upon You, For You will answer me. Among the gods there is none like You, O Lord; Nor are there any works like Your works. All nations whom You have made Shall come and worship before You, O Lord, And shall glorify Your name. For You are great, and do wondrous things; You alone are God. Teach me Your way, O LORD; I will walk in Your truth; Unite my heart to fear Your name. I will praise You, O Lord my God, with all my heart, And I will glorify Your name forevermore. For great is Your mercy toward me, And You have delivered my soul from the depths of Sheol. O God, the proud have risen against me, And a mob of violent men have sought my life, And have not set You before them. But You, O Lord, are a God full of compassion, and gracious, Longsuffering and abundant in mercy and truth. Oh, turn to me, and have mercy on me! Give Your strength to Your servant, And save the son of Your maidservant. Show me a sign for good, That those who hate me may see it and be ashamed, Because You, LORD, have helped me and comforted me. Father God, we thank you for sending your only begotten Son to us. I ask that you pour out your blessing upon your children in 2013 and those that just know you will turn that knowledge into a personal relationship with you. We give you all the glory and praise. Amen!

Romans 15:22-33 NKJV

The year 2013 has arrived. I hoped all enjoyed the Birthday Celebration of Jesus and the bringing in the New Year with loved ones. I pray that all is well with you and your family and the New Year will be one filled with blessings from God.

The last couple lessons we had involved Paul talking to seasoned believers and new believers in the fact that seasoned believers are to help new believers understand what scripture means. Seasoned believers are to conduct their lives in such a manner that they are to be an example to the new believers so they don’t stumble and fall in their faith. The rest of this letter to the Romans Paul is telling the brothers and sisters in Rome that he is on his way to them, he is requesting prayer, and giving guidance pertaining to who will be with him (Chapter 16).

22  For this reason I also have been much hindered from coming to you.

We know from previous lessons Paul’s mission was to preach the Gospel in places where it hadn’t been preached yet. He was led by the Spirit of God to do this and now he finally had preached in all areas that the Holy Spirit directed him to preach. During this time Paul had run into many situations that cause him hindrances in preaching the Gospel. We know that he was greatly persecuted and at times was near death. It was because of the persecuted times that required time to heal from his wounds and the vast area of travel that hindered him from going to his Roman brethren.

23  But now no longer having a place in these parts, and having a great desire these many years to come to you,

Paul is simply stating that he had preached the Gospel in all of the area that he was led to preach in by the Holy Spirit and at last he could travel to Rome which he desired for quite some time. This desire that he had to go to Rome was also inspired by the Holy Spirit and directed Paul in that direction. Do you remember why Paul wanted to go to Rome? He stated this in Chapter One; Romans 1:9-13 For God is my witness, whom I serve with my spirit in the gospel of His Son, that without ceasing I make mention of you always in my prayers,  10 making request if, by some means, now at last I may find a way in the will of God to come to you.  11 For I long to see you, that I may impart to you some spiritual gift, so that you may be established— 12 that is, that I may be encouraged together with you by the mutual faith both of you and me.  13 Now I do not want you to be unaware, brethren, that I often planned to come to you (but was hindered until now), that I might have some fruit among you also, just as among the other Gentiles.

24  whenever I journey to Spain, I shall come to you. For I hope to see you on my journey, and to be helped on my way there by you, if first I may enjoy your company for a while.

Paul not only wants to go to Rome, but his master plan or I should say the leading of the Holy Spirit is actually directing him to Spain. The Holy Spirit is having him stop by Rome on his way to Spain for some particular reasons. There are several reasons why he is to stop by Rome on his way to Spain. 1) For some fellowship, directing, and clarifying of the Gospel to his brethren and sisters in faith (verses 11 and 12 above) 2) To preaching the Gospel to his Roman Jewish brothers and sisters and anyone else that would listen that weren’t yet believers. (This is the fruit that he speaks of in verse 13 above.) 3) To be helped on his way to Spain by his fellow believers. What this help consists of we don’t really know. Maybe it was financial assistance for the journey, but was more likely for fellow believers to go with him. In all of Paul’s other evangelizing travels he started churches where there were no churches. I feel he was looking for fellow believers to go with him and to stay at certain destinations to develop and grow the churches Paul would be starting.

25  But now I am going to Jerusalem to minister to the saints.

26  For it pleased those from Macedonia and Achaia to make a certain contribution for the poor among the saints who are in Jerusalem.

Paul goes on to explain another delay that he will have and that is to take a money contribution to the believers in Jerusalem. The believers in Jerusalem were having a very difficult time due to the Sanhedrin and their unbelief. The believers in Macedonia and Achaia were touched by the correspondence that was coming to them from Jerusalem and were led by the Holy Spirit to take up a contribution to help out their fellow brothers and sisters in faith.

When a person gives their heart to Jesus, it is the love of Jesus that takes up residence within ones heart that leads a believer to help out other believers. They do it because they want to do these good things not because they think they should. There is a huge difference here, one being done out of love, the other being done in order to gain favor from God by doing something. When one does it out of love of the spirit and expects nothing in return, it shows the fruit of a saved person. When one does something out of love but expects something in return like the good deed pleasing God, this is works of the flesh, it shows the fruit of the flesh and an unsaved person. For example, if one has to wrestle with how much to put in the tithing basket thinking 10% is too much. Then what is your faith based on? Is it Jesus Christ and the finished work of the Cross, on mans doctrine, on self? Ephesians 2:8-9 For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God,  9 not of works, lest anyone should boast.

27  It pleased them indeed, and they are their debtors. For if the Gentiles have been partakers of their spiritual things, their duty is also to minister to them in material things.

This verse is speaking of the believers in Macedonia and Achaia being happy to help out fellow believers in Jerusalem because they viewed themselves as being in debt to the Jewish people there. Why, because God had raised up the Jewish people to receive and accept the Gospel of the Cross. Even though the majority of the Jews rejected Jesus and who He was, some did accept Him. It was these Jewish people that accepted Jesus and the Gospel and went out and spread the Good News to the Gentiles. If it weren’t for these few the Gospel wouldn’t have been spread to the Gentile nations. This is why these people felt in debt to the Jewish believers in Jerusalem. They were able to partake of the same Spiritual things as God’s chosen people. So as a result of this gratitude they were led by the Holy Spirit to help out with the necessities of life for those in Jerusalem. This is so right that the church is to help out those that are in need in their own congregations, but this is something we never hear of these days. Now don’t get me wrong, I’m not saying to help those that don’t want to work and are lazy. I’m talking about helping true believers that love the Lord and fall into hard times like losing their jobs, unexpected vehicle repairs, clothing, food, etc., because the Bible states that if we don’t work we aren’t to be supported by the church. 2 Thessalonians 3:7-10 For you yourselves know how you ought to follow us, for we were not disorderly among you;  8 nor did we eat anyone's bread free of charge, but worked with labor and toil night and day, that we might not be a burden to any of you,  9 not because we do not have authority, but to make ourselves an example of how you should follow us.  10 For even when we were with you, we commanded you this: If anyone will not work, neither shall he eat.

28  Therefore, when I have performed this and have sealed to them this fruit, I shall go by way of you to Spain.

What is this fruit and where does it come from that Paul is speaking about. This fruit is produced by the Holy Spirit within the believer. Anything a believer produces by the workings of the Holy Spirit is fruit. This contribution of money that Paul is dropping off in Jerusalem is fruit of the Holy Spirit.

Did Paul make it to Spain? We don’t know for sure, some historians say he did, but there is no proof that he did. We do know that Paul was martyred in Rome.

29  But I know that when I come to you, I shall come in the fullness of the blessing of the gospel of Christ.

Paul is stating here that when he finishes up the task at Jerusalem he would then be coming to them in the fullness and blessings of the Holy Spirit. He was absolutely positive and had no doubt that he was to go to Rome because of the leading of the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit had messages and spiritual gifts He wanted to convey and give to the church in Rome via Paul.

This thought has just entered my mind and I don’t know why, but I’m wondering where Peter was? If, and I say if Peter was the first Pope, and all Pope’s resided in Rome, then why is Paul being sent to Rome to deliver and reinforce the Gospel of Jesus Christ? Where is Peter? Why wouldn’t Peter be called to deliver these messages if he resided in Rome? Not once has he been mentioned. I view Peter as the first leader of the Church that was formed at the day of Pentecost. Peter and many other appointed leaders after Peter were martyred for centuries following Jesus resurrection, because of the preaching of the Gospel and its truth. In studying history from different sources, and keeping an open mind some say the first recognized Pope came on the scene around 600 AD. I don’t have an answer for these questions, and why these questions came to mind, I do not know. I think it is something the Holy Spirit wanted to bring out and open our minds, loosen our stiff necks, and soften our hard hearts pertaining to denominational religious beliefs.

 30  Now I beg you, brethren, through the Lord Jesus Christ, and through the love of the Spirit, that you strive together with me in prayers to God for me,

31  that I may be delivered from those in Judea who do not believe, and that my service for Jerusalem may be acceptable to the saints,

Paul is now turning things around in the fact that at the present time he was anticipating some tribulations. Previous to this verse there is no indication that he was or would be hampered from coming to them. Now he is beseeching prayer from his fellow brethren that the unbelievers in Judea will do him no harm so that he can proceed with his mission of coming to them promptly.

The unbelieving Jews in Judea had been opposed to Paul’s conversion. They could not forget that he had borne letters of commission from them to persecute the Christians at Damascus. They regarded him as an apostate. They had heard of his success among the Gentiles, and they had been informed that he taught all the Jews among the Gentiles to forsake the laws of Moses. Acts 21:21 but they have been informed about you that you teach all the Jews who are among the Gentiles to forsake Moses, saying that they ought not to circumcise their children nor to walk according to the customs. Therefore, the apostle was aware that returning to Judea, he would exposed himself to special dangers.

Why was Paul asking for prayer that the believers in Jerusalem would receive the offerings that the believers in Macedonia and Achaia were sending? It ties right in with the concerns Paul had traveling through Judea. Paul was preaching the Gospel of Jesus Christ and the finished work of the Cross. It was not religion. It was salvation by faith, in what and why Jesus died in our place on the Cross. The Jewish brethren viewed Paul’s teaching as going against the Law of Moses. It was because of this Paul thought that the Jewish brethren in Jerusalem may not want anything to do with him and Gentile offerings. Many of the converts from Judaism may have still been clinging onto some of their religious rites. Some may have retained their former feelings that the Gentiles were polluted, and that they shouldn’t have any fellowship with them. Some newly converted Christians retain former notions long after their conversion and often many years are required for opinions and prejudices to wear off. This is what sanctification is all about. When a person is Born Again some beliefs are brought forth in ones heart by the Holy Spirit and are eliminated immediately while other things may take a year or several years to come to fruition. It is a testing of faith and steadfastness. 1 Peter 1:6-7 In this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while, if need be, you have been grieved by various trials,  7 that the genuineness of your faith, being much more precious than gold that perishes, though it is tested by fire, may be found to praise, honor, and glory at the revelation of Jesus Christ,

32  that I may come to you with joy by the will of God, and may be refreshed together with you.

33  Now the God of peace be with you all. Amen.

These two verses are simply stating that it is the will of God that Paul is to go to Rome. With the leading of God’s Spirit Paul will arrive there and be refreshed in spirit through fellowship with his believing brothers and sisters in Rome.

Romans 1:16 For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ,

for it is the power of God to salvation for everyone who believes…...

Psalms 51:10 Create in me a clean heart, O God, And renew a steadfast spirit within me.

John 3:3 Jesus answered and said to him, "Most assuredly, I say to you,

unless one is born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God."

http://jesus-christ-spiritual-food.blogspot.com/

Bill Wiesbrock

Last Week’s Trivia: Who were the other two Adonijah’s?

Answer: The second Adonijah was a Levite sent by King Jehoshaphat to teach the Law in the cities of Judah in an effort to reform the nation in 914 B.C. 2 Chronicles 17:8. The third Adonijah was one of the chiefs who signed the covenant with Nehemiah after the Exile, promising to keep the Law. Nehemiah 10:16.

This week’s Trivia: Who was Adoniram?

12-12-2012 Vol. 6 Part 51 Book of Romans (Romans 15:8-21)

Note: To download/print the document, click on the title below.

12-12-2012 Vol. 6 Part 51 Book of Romans

Psalms 85:1-13 A Psalm Of the Sons of Korah. LORD, You have been favorable to Your land; You have brought back the captivity of Jacob. You have forgiven the iniquity of Your people; You have covered all their sin. You have taken away all Your wrath; You have turned from the fierceness of Your anger. Restore us, O God of our salvation, And cause Your anger toward us to cease. Will You be angry with us forever? Will You prolong Your anger to all generations? Will You not revive us again, That Your people may rejoice in You? Show us Your mercy, LORD, And grant us Your salvation. I will hear what God the LORD will speak, For He will speak peace To His people and to His saints; But let them not turn back to folly. Surely His salvation is near to those who fear Him, That glory may dwell in our land. Mercy and truth have met together; Righteousness and peace have kissed. Truth shall spring out of the earth, And righteousness shall look down from heaven. Yes, the LORD will give what is good; And our land will yield its increase. Righteousness will go before Him, And shall make His footsteps our pathway. Father God, we thank you for sending your only begotten Son to us. I pray that many hearts be turned toward your Son this Christmas season. We give you all the glory and praise. Amen!

Romans 15:8-21 NKJV

We leave the last few lessons pertaining to what the Holy Spirit inspired through Paul to tell us about how a strong believer is to act and help the weak or new believer to become fully rooted in Jesus Christ. This is to enable the weak to become strong in faith and not works, and live a Holy life in the eyes of God.

This lesson has two subjects, the first being a believer and being one in Christ (Verses 8-12). The second is about Paul’s ministry, what he was called to do and how he was lead by the Holy Spirit to minister to the Gentile world (Verses 13-21).

8    Now I say that Jesus Christ has become a servant to the circumcision for the truth of God, to confirm the promises made to the fathers,

Now I say that Jesus Christ has become a servant to the circumcision; Paul is affirming that Jesus came as a servant to the Jews first in this verse. The next verse the Gentile nation is noted. Jesus was born a Jew, was circumcised, came to His people, and died in their midst without having the recognition of His people and who He was, the Messiah.

For the truth of God, to confirm the promises made to the fathers; Jesus came as the truth of God to confirm the Prophecies of the Old Testament. To fulfill the promises made to the Jewish peoples forefathers. Some of these Prophecies are stated in the next several verses.

9    and that the Gentiles might glorify God for His mercy, as it is written: "FOR THIS REASON I WILL CONFESS TO YOU AMONG THE GENTILES, AND SING TO YOUR NAME."

And that the Gentiles might glorify God for His mercy, as it is written; The second purpose Jesus came to earth as man was so that all who would believe, could become God’s children. After all we are His creation, and God wants to see all humans that He has created in Heaven with Him for eternity. John 3:16  For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. It is because of God’s mercy toward us Gentiles, we have a chance for salvation if we so desire.

FOR THIS REASON I WILL CONFESS TO YOU AMONG THE GENTILES, AND SING TO YOUR NAME; This phrase and the next 3 verses Paul is quoting from the OT. This phrase is taken from Psalm 18:49. Who is speaking in this Psalm? It is David, but in a sense it is Jesus and what is being stated here is that Jesus will sing praises to God our Father whenever Gentile believers sing praises to God. He is our one and only advocate to God our Father. 1 Timothy 2:5  For there is one God and one Mediator between God and men, the Man Christ Jesus.

10  And again he says: "REJOICE, O GENTILES, WITH HIS PEOPLE!"

11  And again: "PRAISE THE LORD, ALL YOU GENTILES! LAUD HIM, ALL YOU PEOPLES!"

12  And again, Isaiah says: "THERE SHALL BE A ROOT OF JESSE; AND HE WHO SHALL RISE TO REIGN OVER THE GENTILES, IN HIM THE GENTILES SHALL HOPE."

Verse 10 is from Deuteronomy 32:43 and plainly states Gentile believers have the same saviour and rights as Gods chosen people the Israelites. Jew and Gentile are to rejoice in unison.

Verse 11 is from Psalm 117:1 and here again it is stating the same as verse 10. Laud meaning praise, speak well of, extol, etc.

Verse 12 is from Isaiah 11:1 claiming Jesus the Messiah would rise from the root of Jesse the father of David. Isaiah is making claim here that a descendant would come forth from Jesse to be the Saviour not only to the Israelites but also to the Gentile nations on earth. Jesus would and is the hope for all that desire. One day Jesus will rule and reign beginning with His second coming. Isaiah 11:10 "And in that day there shall be a Root of Jesse, Who shall stand as a banner to the people; For the Gentiles shall seek Him, And His resting place shall be glorious."

13  Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that you may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.

Now may the God of hope fill you; God is our hope and inspiration for life, eternal life. Without God we are dead and if we don’t have Jesus within our heart we are physically alive, but spiritually dead. Without the proper relationship with Jesus we have no eternal life.

With all joy and peace; If one is a true believer they have the joy and peace of knowing that when they die they will be united with Jesus Christ in Heaven. By placing faith in Jesus and the finished works of the Cross one is filled with joy and peace. Romans 14:17 for the kingdom of God is not eating and drinking, but righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit.

In believing; The effect of believing is to produce this joy and peace.

That you may abound in hope; Through believing and faith ones hope grows and becomes steadfast and strong.

By the power of the Holy Spirit; By means of the powerful operation of the Holy Spirit that a person receives when they give their heart to Jesus that the Christian has the hope of eternal life. It is by the working of the Holy Spirit that this hope flourishes. Ephesians 1:13-14 In Him you also trusted, after you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation; in whom also, having believed, you were sealed with the Holy Spirit of promise,  14 who is the guarantee of our inheritance until the redemption of the purchased possession, to the praise of His glory. Romans 8:24 For we were saved in this hope, but hope that is seen is not hope; for why does one still hope for what he sees?

14  Now I myself am confident concerning you, my brethren, that you also are full of goodness, filled with all knowledge, able also to admonish one another.

This verse Paul is giving a compliment and encouragement to his Brethren, fellow believers, that they have the knowledge and wisdom to correct one another. They are filled with the goodness of the Holy Spirit and very capable of helping and keeping each other on the path of righteousness.

15  Nevertheless, brethren, I have written more boldly to you on some points, as reminding you, because of the grace given to me by God,

In the previous verse Paul gives his brethren a compliment, and it is because of their knowledge of the Word of God he states other points in a bolder way. He wants to make a few things very clear and by the grace of God and the workings of the Holy Spirit within him, he has the assurance that his points will be taken and acted upon correctly without any grief.

16  that I might be a minister of Jesus Christ to the Gentiles, ministering the gospel of God, that the offering of the Gentiles might be acceptable, sanctified by the Holy Spirit.

That I might be a minister of Jesus Christ to the Gentiles, ministering the gospel of God; Paul is making claim here that his mission in life is to preach the Gospel of Jesus Christ to all nations. That is exactly what he did because Jesus called him to do that. Paul was a traveler and traveled many miles to many nations to preach the Gospel. He was and evangelist! He somewhat acted as a Levitical Priest did in offering up all the animal sacrifices. These priests worked many long and continuous days and it was a sacrifice on their part. Paul was the same by himself being persecuted, ridiculed, ran out of town, etc. He endured many living sacrifices in preaching the Gospel to the Gentile nations.

That the offering of the Gentiles might be acceptable, sanctified by the Holy Spirit; It was through Paul’s teaching that Gentiles came to know Jesus and what he did for all mankind. They accepted Jesus as their Saviour and asked Him into their hearts. It was because of Paul’s preaching, the Gentiles were made acceptable in God’s eyes through their faith in Jesus and what He did on the Cross for them. They were sanctified by the Holy Spirit when they accepted Jesus because immediately upon this acceptance the Holy Spirit takes up residence within their heart. It is through this simple act of belief and faith that one is made holy and acceptable to God.

We become a living sacrifice when we accept Jesus. The focus from that moment forward is to please God in all that we do. Romans 12:1 I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service.

17  Therefore I have reason to glory in Christ Jesus in the things which pertain to God.

Paul is simply stating that through the workings of the Holy Spirit many things have been reveled to him, and because of this, he gives Jesus Christ all the glory pertaining to Gods kingdom and his prescribed order. Paul rejoices in all Jesus has done for him by being the ultimate sacrifice.

18  For I will not dare to speak of any of those things which Christ has not accomplished through me, in word and deed, to make the Gentiles obedient—

Another way of stating this verse for clarification is; I dare not boast about anything except what Christ has done through me, bringing the Gentiles to obeying God by my teaching and actions. In effect Paul is telling us that what he is preaching is all true. His words and actions are all guided by the Holy Spirit. He wouldn’t think of doing or speak of anything that would go against God’s Word. He is trustworthy and you can take his words and actions to be true and believe in what he is saying.

19  in mighty signs and wonders, by the power of the Spirit of God, so that from Jerusalem and round about to Illyricum I have fully preached the gospel of Christ.

Through the power of the Holy Spirit Paul has performed mighty signs and wonders in his travels. Through these signs and wonders Paul has brought many Gentiles to Jesus. Acts 19:11-12 Now God worked unusual miracles by the hands of Paul,  12 so that even handkerchiefs or aprons were brought from his body to the sick, and the diseases left them and the evil spirits went out of them. Paul is claiming that he has preached the Gospel in all areas that he has traveled.

20  And so I have made it my aim to preach the gospel, not where Christ was named, lest I should build on another man's foundation,

Paul’s earnest desire was to boldly preach the Gospel where no man had gone before. He wanted to bring the glorious name of Jesus to the far corners of the earth. He didn’t want to build on the teachings of other men that were proclaiming the Gospel. He desired to start churches himself where there were no churches. He regarded the forming of new churches as his calling. Others might be called to edify the church, but he regarded it as his function to make known the name of the Saviour where it was not before known. This work was particularly adapted to the passion, eagerness, energy, and bravery of such a man as Paul. Every man has his proper gift and there are some suited to form and establish churches, while others to edify and comfort churches that are started. The apostle chose the higher honor, involving most danger and responsibility, but still any office in building up the church is honorable. 2 Corinthians 10:13-16 We, however, will not boast beyond measure, but within the limits of the sphere which God appointed us—a sphere which especially includes you.  14 For we are not overextending ourselves (as though our authority did not extend to you), for it was to you that we came with the gospel of Christ;  15 not boasting of things beyond measure, that is, in other men's labors, but having hope, that as your faith is increased, we shall be greatly enlarged by you in our sphere,  16 to preach the gospel in the regions beyond you, and not to boast in another man's sphere of accomplishment.

21  but as it is written: "TO WHOM HE WAS NOT ANNOUNCED, THEY SHALL SEE; AND THOSE WHO HAVE NOT HEARD SHALL UNDERSTAND."

This verse is from Isaiah and it’s not word for word, but the meaning is the same. Isaiah 52:15 So shall He sprinkle many nations. Kings shall shut their mouths at Him; For what had not been told them they shall see, And what they had not heard they shall consider. In this verse Paul is stating that he was following the plan spoken of in the Scriptures where it says, "Those who have never been told about Him will see, and those who have never heard of Him will understand." In other words through Paul’s preaching, Gentiles will come to a full understanding of who Jesus is and what and why He died for mankind. Have you given your heart to Jesus yet? If not, do it this Christmas Season!

Romans 1:16 For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ,

for it is the power of God to salvation for everyone who believes…...

Psalms 51:10 Create in me a clean heart, O God, And renew a steadfast spirit within me.

John 3:3 Jesus answered and said to him, "Most assuredly, I say to you,

unless one is born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God."

http://jesus-christ-spiritual-food.blogspot.com/

Bill Wiesbrock

Last Week’s Trivia: Who was Adonijah?

Answer: Adonijah was one of three different persons in the Bible with this name. This Adonijah was David’s fourth son, and was in line to succeed David as king. Bathsheba, however, prevailed upon the aged dying David to Name Solomon as his successor. Adonijah went ahead with schemes to have himself crowned. His conspiracy was blocked by the prophet Nathan, who hurried to have David and Bathsheba approve a speedy coronation of Solomon. Although Adonijah pledged loyalty to Solomon, Solomon quickly became alarmed at Adonijah’s bold and somewhat treasonous request to marry Abishag, David’s nurse, and had him executed. II Samuel Chapters 3 & 4; I Kings Chapters 1 & 2.

This week’s Trivia: Who was the other two Adonijah’s?

12-5-2012 Vol. 6 Part 50 Book of Romans (Romans 15:1-7)

Note: To download/print the document, click on the title below.

12-5-2012 Vol. 6 Part 50 Book of Romans

Psalms 84:1-12 NKJV A Psalm of the Sons of Korah. How lovely is Your tabernacle, O LORD of hosts! My soul longs, yes, even faints For the courts of the LORD; My heart and my flesh cry out for the living God. Even the sparrow has found a home, And the swallow a nest for herself, Where she may lay her young— Even Your altars, O LORD of hosts, My King and my God. Blessed are those who dwell in Your house; They will still be praising You. Selah Blessed is the man whose strength is in You, Whose heart is set on pilgrimage. As they pass through the Valley of Baca, They make it a spring; The rain also covers it with pools. They go from strength to strength; Each one appears before God in Zion. O LORD God of hosts, hear my prayer; Give ear, O God of Jacob! Selah O God, behold our shield, And look upon the face of Your anointed. For a day in Your courts is better than a thousand. I would rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God Than dwell in the tents of wickedness. For the LORD God is a sun and shield; The LORD will give grace and glory; No good thing will He withhold From those who walk uprightly. O LORD of hosts, Blessed is the man who trusts in You! Father God, I ask that you open the doors of Heaven and pour out your love and Grace to all that turn to you. Watch over your children and guide them in all they do. We give you all the glory and praise. Amen!

Romans 15:1-7 NKJV

I hope chapter 14 wasn’t too confusing. The whole theme of Chapter 14 was directed toward new believers and seasoned believers not nonbelievers. It was talking about faith, a religious faith of rituals which is what many churches believe in for salvation, not in Jesus and what He did for us.  Paul was pointing out that a seasoned believer may do something that appeared wrong to a new believer, but in reality the seasoned believer placed his faith totally in Jesus Christ and what he endured for us on the Cross. The seasoned believer knows that a religion based on rituals, customs, manmade laws are useless when it comes to salvation. Paul was pointing out to the seasoned believers to exercise great discernment before they said or did anything in front of new believers. Paul’s concern was for the new believers so they wouldn’t be lead astray by the actions of a seasoned believer by not fully understanding the concept of total faith in Jesus.

Today we start out with Chapter 15, and in reading the first few verses it is talking about what I just explained in the previous paragraph. It seems to me that Chapter 14 was ended in the wrong place. So we start out with Paul summarizing the previous chapter.

1  We then who are strong ought to bear with the scruples of the weak, and not to please ourselves.

We then who are strong; this is referring to someone that has been a true believer for a few years and has come to the understanding of what salvation is all about. They know that their eternal life is based on faith in Jesus and what He did for them on the Cross and that is all that is necessary. They know that man’s religious customs, rituals, and church dogma hold no value in gaining entry into Heaven for eternal life.

Ought to bear with the scruples of the weak; this phrase along with the previous one, again is talking to a seasoned believer. Synonym for scruples is; sense of right and wrong, conscience, principles, ethics, discernment, etc. What is being stated, is a person that is strong in their faith needs to exercise their actions and speech with a new believers conscience in mind, so as not to cause a new believer to stumble and sin. We are to bear the weak in faith’s burden of not fully understanding faith. Galatians 6:2 Bear one another's burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.

Not to please ourselves; as a seasoned believer we are to conduct ourselves in a manner that is pleasing to God so that His light will shine through us to those around us. We are to love our neighbor as our self. Our focus is to be Jesus first and then our neighbors. We are to place ourselves last as Jesus did. We are to wash the feet of those around us. Paul kept his audience in mind at all times so that he could communicate with them without offense. 1 Corinthians 9:22 to the weak I became as weak, that I might win the weak. I have become all things to all men, that I might by all means save some. Matthew 16:24  Then Jesus said to His disciples, "If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me.

2  Let each of us please his neighbor for his good, leading to edification.

Another way to say this verse is; we should help others do what is right and build them up in their faith in Jesus and the works of the Cross.

Let each of us please his neighbor for his good; here again this is referring to the strong in faith helping the weak in faith.

Leading to edification; when the strong in faith helps the weak in faith to fully understand the true meaning of scripture, they are building up the weak in faith. They are stabilizing the message of the Cross.

3  For even Christ did not please Himself; but as it is written, "THE REPROACHES OF THOSE WHO REPROACHED YOU FELL ON ME."

For even Christ did not please Himself; did Jesus live to please Himself? Not at all, but to please His Father. All that Jesus did was to glorify God our Father. It was His Father’s will that He did while here on earth, and that is why He was, and is hated, because He stand for righteousness in God’s eyes. He carried out God’s will and not mans will pertaining to God’s word and salvation. Psalms 40:8 I delight to do Your will, O my God, And Your law is within my heart." John 6:38 For I have come down from heaven, not to do My own will, but the will of Him who sent Me. Jesus is the Word. John 1:1 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.

The reproaches of those who reproached you fell on me; Paul coins this phrase from Psalm 69:9. Reproach meaning; criticism; accusation; blame; rebuke, etc. It is because of the fall of mankind that Jesus came to intercede for us and give the unbeliever the opportunity to accept Him as their Saviour, if they so desire. Jesus was willing to suffer accusation and hatred in order to do His Fathers will and good to others. If Jesus could undergo extreme persecution and death for us and not seek any pleasure for Himself, then how much more should we be willing to help strengthen a weak Brother or Sister in a small matter!

4  For whatever things were written before were written for our learning, that we through the patience and comfort of the Scriptures might have hope.

For whatever things were written before; this is referring to the Old Testament. “Written before”, is better stated as “written aforetime; in the past; earlier times”. 

Were written for our learning; the Old Testament was written as the foundation of the New Testament. It also has numerous examples of the OT patriarchs and their lives and faith in God. Paul and the other Apostles were always referring to OT scripture. The OT is for us to learn from pertaining to faith and what faith truly is. Just as those of Paul’s time and our time many interpret the Bible as law and trying to live by law and not faith. The understanding of Faith is missed totally in most cases.  John 5:39 You search the Scriptures, for in them you think you have eternal life…….. It is that old adage of, “we have to do something to earn salvation”, instead of just believing in what Jesus did for us on the Cross and denying all religious doctrine, and placing our total faith in Jesus.

That we through the patience and comfort of the Scriptures might have hope; it is through the study of scripture and fully understanding what the finished work of the Cross truly means. Then and only then we can have assurance of eternal happiness when we give our heart to Jesus, accept Him as our Saviour, and place our Faith in Him. It isn’t just knowing Jesus and what He did, but fully understanding what and why He did it for us with our hearts and not our minds. This is where hope comes in. Our faith produces patience, comfort, and hope when we go through life’s trials and tribulations. We can turn to God’s Holy and True Word because the Word is Jesus. In difficult times we can have comfort and patience in the Word of God knowing as a true believer that Jesus is our Hope and one day we will be with Him.

5  Now may the God of patience and comfort grant you to be like-minded toward one another, according to Christ Jesus,

This verse can be stated this way, “May God who gives patience, comfort, and encouragement, give you live in complete harmony with each other as believers and followers of Christ Jesus.”

Now may the God of patience and comfort grant you; God is the author of patience and consolation and is given to a believer for this very purpose, among other things.

To be like-minded toward one another according to Christ Jesus; the Roman church was a diverse community. It was made up of Jews and Gentiles, slaves and free people, rich and poor, strong and weak. So it was difficult for them to accept one another. As a true believer we all have like minds because we are one in Christ. A true believer knows in their heart there is no such thing as church denominations for salvation. When they accept Jesus, their heart is changed and they are able to accept others as Christ accepted you, and God is given the glory. John 17:21-25 that they all may be one, as You, Father, are in Me, and I in You; that they also may be one in Us, that the world may believe that You sent Me.  22  And the glory which You gave Me I have given them, that they may be one just as We are one:  23  I in them, and You in Me; that they may be made perfect in one, and that the world may know that You have sent Me, and have loved them as You have loved Me.  24  "Father, I desire that they also whom You gave Me may be with Me where I am, that they may behold My glory which You have given Me; for You loved Me before the foundation of the world.  25  O righteous Father! The world has not known You, but I have known You; and these have known that You sent Me.

6  that you may with one mind and one mouth glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.

That you may with one mind; one mind means being in one accord, on the same wave length, in agreement of scripture and what they mean, etc. Acts 2:1 When the Day of Pentecost had fully come, they were all with one accord in one place.; It means united, with one purpose, without contentions, and strife’s. As a believer one is to have the mind of Christ. Philippians 2:5 Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus.

And one mouth; this refers to prayers and praises. True believers are to join together without contention and unkind feeling in the worship of God. Divisions, strife, and contention in the church prevent union in worship. Though the body may be there and the church professedly engages in public worship, it is a divided service. Acts 4:24 So when they heard that, they raised their voice to God with one accord and said: "Lord, You are God, who made heaven and earth and the sea, and all that is in them,

Glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ; being of one mind and one mouth we are to praise God in union, peace, and harmony if we claim to be true believers. The grace we received when we became true believers should shine through us by overcoming the sources of strife and contention among believers, and to bring peace within the church.

If we claim to be a true believer then God is our Father and we are His children. As his children we are to glorify Him as our Lord Jesus has commanded us to be united, and to love one another. With the desire of honoring our Heavenly Father, we are to lay aside contentions, and be united in the bands of love.

7  Therefore receive one another, just as Christ also received us, to the glory of God.

Therefore receive one another; we are to acknowledge one another as Christians, and treat one another with love and respect even though we may differ in opinion about many smaller matters that have nothing to do with salvation. Keep in mind Paul is speaking to a church body that are believers. Not that we aren’t to treat all people with love and respect, we are, but he is addressing some conflict within the Roman Church. There was probably some finger pointing going on and claims being made that little Miss goodie two shoes was not a believer because she was eating meat. Remember Chapter 14, that is exactly what was happening. Romans 14:3 Let not him who eats despise him who does not eat, and let not him who does not eat judge him who eats; for God has received him.

Just as Christ also received us; this phrase tells us that if we are received as Born Again Saints in God’s eyes, then who are we to judge another brother or sister in Christ. That’s Jesus job!

To the glory of God; we promote God’s glory when we conduct ourselves according to his will. We have been redeemed and renewed in order to promote the honor of God. Ephesians 1:6 to the praise of the glory of His grace, by which He made us accepted in the Beloved. As Christ has received us in order to promote the glory of God, we are to treat each other in a similar manner for a similar purpose. The Church body is not to bicker amongst themselves when it comes to trivial matters that don’t pertain to salvation.

I leave you with this thought. Have you been involved with church disagreements on matters that don’t pertain to salvation principles? Have you left a particular church because of the contentions? Do you hold grudges against the church or people of that church? If so, forgiveness and repentance is required based on God’s Word. Luke 6:37 "Judge not, and you shall not be judged. Condemn not, and you shall not be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven.

Romans 1:16 For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ,

for it is the power of God to salvation for everyone who believes…...

Psalms 51:10 Create in me a clean heart, O God, And renew a steadfast spirit within me.

John 3:3 Jesus answered and said to him, "Most assuredly, I say to you,

unless one is born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God."

http://jesus-christ-spiritual-food.blogspot.com/

Bill Wiesbrock

Last Week’s Trivia: Who was Adonibezek?

Answer: Adonibezek was the head of a Canaanite tribe in southern Palestine. Adonibezek was captured after a battle with the tribe of Judah. He had frequently boasted of having chopped off the thumbs and big toes of seventy kings, and so he received similar torture and mutilation from Judah. Judges 1:1-7.

This week’s Trivia: Who was Adonijah?