I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing. - John 15:5
And the same day, when the even was come, he saith unto them, Let us pass over unto the other side. - Mark 4:35
...weeping may endure for a night, but joy cometh in the morning. - Psalms 30:5b
...strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it. - Matthew 7:14
...And the Spirit of God moved upon the face of the waters. - Genesis 1:2b
The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters. - Psalms 23:1-2
Welcome to Adam2.org!
Thank you for visiting ADAM2.ORG and your interest in our studies and resources. We are currently going through a growth
phase and editing and expanding to include other features and writings. We hope you check back often for updates, especially in our Studies' Section.
About Us ▼
Adam2.org was established by our founder, Ken Livingston, in July 1999.
Having grown into an international organization consisting of thousands of members and visitors from over 50
countries, we are not affiliated with any group,
denomination, church or other controlling entity or otherwise, with the exception of... Read more...►
Studies ▼
Thank you for your visit. We hope you benefit from our resources and ask you to
recommend us to a friend.
If you aren't sure what your state of life will be when this one is over, we encourage you to seriously
consider this while you have opportunity. Nothing in this life you will do will be as important!
Likely, you have made every preparation for your present life.
You owe it to your self to prepare for what comes next. It won't cost you a thing! Continue reading...►
Excerpts From Studies' Area ▼
Excerpt from: In His Presence.
"A self surrendered in the silence of His presence is a soul at peace in Him who reclaimed it! The earth and its burdens no
longer bind you and you are free to walk the stars, revel in His glory, bathed in His love. Time affects only the earthly,
but your spirit is free to soar the heavenlies -- and the hours pass quickly, while In His Presence!
To journey where no mortal may go: This Is Prayer!"
Excerpt from: Proofs of Growing In Grace. 1. Less temptation to focus on troubles or talk about them to others... 2. Less temptation to resent and retaliate when insulted or abused... 3. Joy under crosses, disappointment, and severe pain...
Each month a featured writing from different authors will be posted below as a main feature in our center section.
The nature of these writings will vary from devotional, to inspirational, topical and informative for the current
state of our Christian culture. You may access this full feature with the link below. ▼
Opportunities for Service ▼
Each day a host of members and visitors from around the world visit our site and use our online resources, all at no cost. We plan to continue doing so. As we have grown, so too have our needs. We would like to extend an invitation for you to become an integral part of our efforts in helping others. Read more... ►
For those who would like to contribute to our Online ministry, we welcome your donation. Some of you have been looking for a way to give towards an international effort in helping others. Your contribution will not only go a long way in meeting our current and future challenges in maintaining and improving our capacity to aid others, but will place you within His channel of blessing to you for having done so. Your bread upon the waters will not go unnoticed by Him (Hebrews 6:10). Read more... ►
Shocking Finding: Two-thirds (67%) of pre-teen parents claim to be Christian, but only 2% of all pre-teen parents actually possess a biblical worldview...
American Values Personal Survey
Poll: American Majority Wants Congress to Pass Pro-Life Protections
Downward Trend Who Say Same-Sex Relations Morally Acceptable
Satan, The Father Of Lies
Battle For America's Soul
Ligonier Ministries' Biennial Study of The State Of American Theology
Among the Shocking findings are -
1. "31% of adults say it is very important for their religious faith to influence every dimension of their life."
2. "49% accept reincarnation as a possibility after they die."
Just one question: If, if this is true then why do our politicians and those who do their bidding in the media possess the spirit of antichrist—an anti-Christian spirit that treats others with such hostility, disrespect and mean-spirited? Why is the state of our country so godless and in an advanced state of decay and decline?
Something is grossly immoral and amiss!
Consider this from 3 of our founding fathers:
Benjamin Franklin - Man will ultimately be governed by God or by tyrants.
Jedidiah Morse - Whenever the pillars of Christianity shall be overthrown, our present republican forms of government - and all blessings which flow from them - must fall with them.
John Adams - Our Constitution was made only for a moral and religious people. It is wholly inadequate to the government of any other.
This may help to answer some of your questions as to our current national state of affairs. The honest student of history knows this to be true. Also read:
But now, O LORD, thou art our father; we are the clay, and thou our potter; and we all are the work of thy hand.
Matthew 20:30-34
And, behold, two blind men sitting by the way side, when they heard that Jesus passed by, cried out, saying, Have mercy on us, O Lord, thou son of David.
And the multitude rebuked them, because they should hold their peace: but they cried the more, saying, Have mercy on us, O Lord, thou son of David.
And Jesus stood still, and called them, and said, What will ye that I shall do unto you?
They say unto him, Lord, that our eyes may be opened.
So Jesus had compassion on them, and touched their eyes: and immediately their eyes received sight, and they followed him.
In a day when voices are so many, so loud and shrill, I find the following poem is always worth the while to sit quietly and frequently read now more than ever. I won't speak to all that is upsetting to us in the world at present. You know it all too well! I ask only the following:
In a throw-away-world, have we lost the true value of the most important things in life?
Have we disregarded any of those we look upon as likely having no future worth—maybe even ourselves?
Are we too busy to pause, if just for a moment, to allow something so unexpected that passes our way to touch our soul?
Have we become so jaded and desensitized by those incessant voices that we no longer see the individual worth of the people and things within each of our worlds?
More Than Ever, Our World Needs Today A Fresh Touch Of The Master's Hand. Unfortunately, As A Nation Who Once Was A Godly People, We Have Allowed The Minority of Shrill Voices Among Us To Driven Him Away. But He Still Calls, No Matter How Distant, And He Still Can Be Heard, By One Who Truly Listens.
Imagine the scene about to unfold to the shock of the audience. Sit for a moment in your favorite place and read, observe and listen.
'Twas battered and scarred, and the auctioneer Thought it scarcely worth his while To waste much time on the old violin, But held it up with a smile. "What am I bidden, good folks," he cried, "Who'll start the bidding for me?" "A dollar, a dollar. Then two! Only two? Two dollars, and who'll make it three?" "Three dollars, once; three dollars, twice; Going for three..." But no, From the room, far back, a grey-haired man Came forward and picked up the bow; Then wiping the dust from the old violin, And tightening the loosened strings, He played a melody pure and sweet, As a caroling angel sings.
The music ceased, and the auctioneer, With a voice that was quiet and low, Said: "What am I bid for the old violin?" And he held it up with the bow. "A thousand dollars, and who'll make it two? Two thousand! And who'll make it three? Three thousand, once; three thousand, twice, And going and gone," said he.
The people cheered, but some of them cried, "We do not quite understand. What changed its worth?" Swift came the reply: "The touch of the Master's hand." And many a man with life out of tune, And battered and scarred with sin, Is auctioned cheap to the thoughtless crowd Much like the old violin.
A "mess of pottage," a glass of wine, A game — and he travels on. He is "going" once, and "going" twice, He's "going" and almost "gone." But the Master comes, and the foolish crowd Never can quite understand The worth of a soul and the change that is wrought By the touch of the Master's hand.
- Myra Brooks Welch February 26, 1921
This was a poem that Myra Welch proclaimed that she was so moved and filled with the Master's Light it was penned in less than one hour. Feeling it was a gift from God, she offered it anonymously for print in her church's news bulletin. (Written in 1921 and published on February 26, 1921 in the Gospel Messenger)
Crippled by arthritis and unable to play the music she so dearly loved, using nothing but the eraser end of a pencil, she would painfully stroke each letter on a typewriter to produce the songs and poems which were born from the Light in her soul. She is quoted by those who knew her, saying, the joy of her writing outweighed the pain of her efforts. Finally, relegated to a wheelchair in her latter years, she had to give up her joy of playing the organ. But she tediously stroked away with her pencil until going home to be with her Master on August 11, 1959. (Myra Brooks Welch was born in Los Angeles, CA on October 12, 1877.)
Here is just one testimony, besides mine, who find Myra's works a continuing inspiration:
"Heard this in church many years ago, sung by a group of American students.The words are so special, all life is valuable in the Lord's eyes, no matter how sinfully battered a person might be." - Gloria Eliott, March 19, 2019
If you identify as one the poem so eloquently describes, one who was formed by the Creator's hands, can you not hear His calling you back to the Master's Hands to be remolded once again in His image?—transformed in an instant into an instrument that He alone can bring out its best. If hope seems fading, call out to Him. As He has done for countless others, he will do for you! He alone knows your true worth and loves you with an everlasting love.
The Old Violin - The Touch of The Master's Hand - Leon Ferreira
The following is taken from the Book, Adam2: A Guide For The Walk Home, written by our founder.
It is A Commentary On The Gospel Of John, complete with a background look at the contemporary Jewish groups active in Jesus' day.
It includes a summary of each chapter, a redacted study of each disciple, a brief study of Gnosticism of the time, pertinent timelines,
and much more. Each chapter of study includes extensive Biblical references to the notes on the chapter.
A chronological excerpt of each section will be posted here at the beginning of each month. You can access free of charge at any time
a complete online digital version
for your further study. In addition, a link will be provided to purchase the book on CD to install on
your own computer for convenience of study and print. All we ask is that you observe the stated copyrights as with any book you buy over
the counter, limiting your print to only one hard copy for your own personal use. If further hard copies are necessary,
please contact us for an additional nominal fee. Thank you for your interest in this study. Our hope and prayer is that
through the work of the Holy Spirit as you study you will be blessed by it, and if so, recommend it to a friend.
In this month's study, we will consider the Zealots from the book: Adam2.
I. MAJOR JEWISH GROUPS IN JESUS' DAY.
D. ZEALOTS.
Zealot in Hebrew is,
Kananaios, or
Cananaean, and in Greek,
Zelotes, or
Zealot,
both meaning, "to be jealous." Cananaean
(not to be confused with an entirely different word similarly pronounced for native geographical
identification—Canaanean, or,
Canaanite) is rooted in the Hebrew verb,
kana, or the common Aramaic form,
kanan, which means, in our case,
"jealous for the Law of Moses." It is used in our New Testament to distinguish between the two disciples named Simon:
Simon Peter and Simon Zelotes, or, Simon the Zealot, or, Simon the Cananaean (one who had been zealous for the Law and
likely a member of its namesake party, now to be discussed, before being called as a disciple. (See Appendix, "Simon," p. 25.)
Unlike the two previous parties, or sects, of the Jewish religion who differed religiously (in their beliefs and practices),
philosophically (in their ideas toward the future of man in general, but more specifically their nation), and politically
(what role they would assume within nations), the Zealots were not considered a religious sect or party. Though they held
to the basic precepts of the Pharisee, and thus can be seen resembling them more than the Sadducee, their uniform for
identification primarily was political.
To better understand the Zealot of Jesus' day, a quick look at the roots of their evolved historical persuasions
is here in order. But first it must be said in defense of those earlier examples of great zeal seen in the genesis
and zenith of their nation, that they in no way compare to the lower character of this evolved murderous first century Zealot
at the close of their national life. Briefly, then, Israel's Old Testament history can be divided into seven distinct periods:
a. The Period of the Patriarchs - Gen.12:1 - Ex.1:7.
Includes Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, and Joseph
b. The Period of the Exodus - Ex.1:8 - Deu.34:12.
Under the leadership of Moses
c. The Period of the Settlement - Jos.1:1 - 24:33.
Under the leadership of Joshua
d. The Period of the Judges - Jud.1:1 - I Sam.10:25.
Under succeeding chosen individuals: final figure and counselor, Samuel
e. The Period of the Kings - I Sam.10:26 - II Ki.25:21.
THE UNITED KINGDOM - I Sam.10:26 - I Ki.11:43
Under Saul, David, and Solomon: each ruling 40 years successively
Main prophets: Samuel, Elijah, Elisha, and Naaman
THE DIVIDED KINGDOM - I Ki.12:1 - II Ki.25:21
Under 19 successive kings within each kingdom
MAIN PROPHETS TO ISRAEL: Jonah, Amos, and Hosea
MAIN PROPHETS TO JUDAH: Joel, Isaiah, Micah, Zephaniah, Nahum, Jeremiah, Habakkuk, Daniel, Ezekiel, and Obadiah
f. The Period of Babylonian Exile - Ez.1:1 - Dan.5:31.
Main figures and counselors: Ezekiel and Daniel
g. The Period of Post-Babylonian Resettlement - Ezra 1:1 - Neh.13:31; Hag.1:1 - Mal.4:6
Main figures and counselors: Zerubbabel, Ezra, Nehemiah, Haggai, Zechariah, and Malachi
Having been ceremonially (Passover) separated from Egypt as a host of people grown over centuries from the origins of the seventy
in Jacob's family, and brought through the Red Sea as a symbol of baptism under the leadership of Moses, the Hebrews
(later to be called Jews) were first called to covenant at Mt. Sinai. Prior to the time of Moses, God's covenant had
always been with individuals (except for the Rainbow Covenant with the entire human race -
Gen.9:9),
including the choosing of Abraham to be the patriarch of this new nation
(Gen.12:2;
17:2-4).
Now, His covenant would collectively be with Abraham's descendants.
Upon receiving God's laws and instructions as an emerging priestly nation to all nations, origins of zeal for national
identity and independence for this calling and mission can clearly be seen in its very early days in the lives of men like Moses
(Ex.2:11-12;
32:32;
Nu.14:19),
Joshua (Jos.1:1-9; 10:40-43; 24:14-28), Caleb
(Nu.13:30;
14:9),
and the very young, Phinehas, who was promised an everlasting priesthood because of his jealousy for God and His laws evidenced in his executional act
(Nu.25).
This zeal and commitment would continue under Joshua's leadership in the Settlement Period within the promised land.
Adequately forewarned and given examples of the consequences for disobedience (Deu.26:16-30:20), lessons thus
learned through the examples of their faithfulness to God's laws and fulfillment of His instructions for settlement
and subsequent prosperity within the land of promise, would later lead to the cyclical Period of the Judges—a time
of increased prosperity that would be followed by a decrease in religious commitment and national blessings.
God would then allow other nations, Gentiles, or those to the Jews considered pagan, or, heathen—unclean
people—to visit punishment, or judgment, upon their national backslidden condition. Recognition for their
fallen condition would slowly evolve and a call or cry would go out for a deliverer, or judge—a savior who
would rally and lead them in throwing off the current yoke of foreign oppression. In those days, God was always
faithful to hear and answer their genuine plea, Himself engaging in their defense. Israel would once again experience
a time of both renewed independence and religious consciousness, only to soon forget and be repeated again and again,
usually with the very next generation, but sometimes within their own (Judges 2:6-3:4).
This is the fifth and intended final of five articles dealing with today's emerging church. Because the information
is rather lengthy, it is broken down into two parts, Part I, laying the foundation for two fundamental questions,
and Part II, responding to those questions. Hopefully, in these five articles there is enough information, first,
to awaken those who haven't been stirred by the changes within their church, and second, to provide an adequate
beginning into the individual's own search in their personal education on this subject. There are too many names
and branches of this movement to list them all here but one should be able to discover them through the many
references listed.
Don't mistake this movement of the changing or emerging church for a trend. It is here. It is powerful! It is
redefining to the world a new philosophy and breed of Christianity. We didn't ask for it. We weren't considered
before it stretched its tentacles to touch us in our worship on Sundays. We were not invited into the
debate before pastors who were began forcing it upon their congregations. It is not going away any
time soon. It is growing in strength and in universal numbers. It has power beyond anything most have
seen in our lifetimes. Deception comes in subtleties and many Christians who are not guarded will fall prey right
along with the ungodly to whom they appeal with their subtleties. I believe it to be, beyond the first duty of a
Christian in their witness, the single greatest issue, and threat, facing the church today...
Now that it is here, we must decide if we want to be identified with this new definition. We must also know beyond doubt
who we are in contrast to this new definition before we can express it in clarity and confident distinction to a lost world.
We need to be ready to give an answer not only with words but with our lives. As the citizens of Antioch labeled
followers of Christ Christian by their lives lived in witness of Him two thousand years ago, the world again will label all
whether agreed or not by the actions of the sweeping tide of disciples of this new movement that fail in resemblance one whit of previous
generations. Just when we thought we knew who we were, it is time to take a deep look within, not only ourselves, but our local
church we have so faithfully supported. Is it what it once was and if not what is it becoming? A legitimate question for all its
members. If one of those Antioch Christians could come forward today, would he or she call us Christians after seeing this
new breed of Christianity? I have stated in a previous article my thoughts on the form I see the genuine church emerging to be
apart from this new modernistic emerging church. This is being
echoed by others as well.
A couple of points need to be made at the outset. First, with few exceptions when I think their work needs to be supported,
I make it a practice not to recommend books for a reader to buy that would profit anyone by my recommendations.
There are some I wish not to put a dime into their pockets. Some preachers sum up their entire ministry by the numbers
and titles of books they've written, one I saw recently strewn out over a timeline of their 40 years in the pulpit.
To be popular and published seems to be the aim if you're going to leave your mark in history. Amazing!
Many make the argument that one has to read another's entire work to speak legitimately to it is a false one. One doesn't have to
experience climbing a mountain before being able to describe and define it to be a mountain. It isn't necessary to see
all the rocks and crevices in minute detail to know it is a part of the whole. It doesn't take microscopic examination
of an apple and orange to determine the difference when seeking to purchase one or the other at a grocery. Nor do I have
to consume all of both for that distinction. A taste sometimes is all that is necessary to discern the identity of its content.
Why would I want to consume the whole when I want to dispose of the first bite? Scripture teaches you will know them by their fruit.
Certainly, if one is new on the scene and untasted, it may take consuming several pieces of their work before learning from what
perspective they speak or write. I won't argue that point. But once that tree has been identified,
the fruit has been as well...
The following is taken from the Book of New Testament Summaries.
Chapter
Jesus Christ, the Word from the beginning, who made and illuminates all things. John the Baptist came to give witness of Him.
The world rejected Jesus, but those who receive Him are born into the kingdom of God by the will of God. He left heaven, became flesh,
and lived a short time with us. This we know for His glory was seen by them. He is the only begotten son of God.
John the Baptist's witness to Jesus. John's answer of himself to the messengers of the Jews: he is not the Christ,
Elijah, nor another prophet, but the one Isaiah said was crying in the wilderness to make straight the way for Christ to come.
He explains his baptism and defers to Jesus, whom they do not recognize among them. In Bethabara, beyond Jordan,
John sees and declares again the Lamb. Two of his disciples follow Jesus: Andrew, who returns for his brother Peter;
and John (inferred). Jesus declares to Peter His prior knowledge of him and changes his name to Cephas (a stone).
The next day in Galilee, Jesus calls Philip, who seeks and returns with his friend Nathanael. After Jesus declares
knowledge of him also, Nathanael believes, following at Jesus' word. Observing their amazement,
Jesus declares that they shall see greater works than this.
Marriage in Cana of Galilee. Mary (mother), Jesus, and the (6) disciples are present. Water turned into wine: first
miracle revealing His glory. The disciples believe. All (mother, brothers, and disciples) leave for Capernaum for a few days.
In Jerusalem at Passover, He cleanses the Temple of money changers, causing the Jews
to ask for a sign of His authority. Jesus confounds them with His answer, referring to His death and resurrection
(Temple destroyed and rebuilt in three days. The disciples will remember this after His resurrection).
Jesus performs many miracles which produce many believers, but He does not commit Himself to them; He knows their
hearts (not as Nathanael's -
1:47).
Acknowledging Jesus as Master (teacher), Nicodemus (a Pharisee and ruler of the Jews) comes to Jesus at night
for discussion of His power to perform those miracles. Nicodemus is unable to understand Jesus' discussion on the rebirth.
(The kingdom cannot be perceived by anyone unregenerated.) Because of God's great love for all His creation, the Son of
man is sent to be lifted up that all who will may be saved from their current self-imposed condemnation of death unto eternal life.
Evil doers love the cover of darkness, but truth lovers will come to the light when it appears to them. Jesus is the Light of the world,
therefore, those who love truth will come to Him; those who love evil will reject Him. Jesus and the disciples go to Judea (from Jerusalem baptizing).
John is in Aenon baptizing. John's disciples question with the Jews about purifying. Seeing Jesus and His disciples baptizing many also,
they question John. He speaks of God's diverse works and gifts: just to see and be a chosen part of God's work, no matter how great or small,
brings great joy. John defers again to Jesus' heavenly greatness. God has given His Son all things that the Son might give to all who believe eternal life (
17:2).
Failing to do so leaves one, by their own choice, exposed to God's impending wrath.
Perceiving John's predicament and possible misconception of the Pharisees of conflicting ministries by His being in the same area,
Jesus departs Judea for Galilee, taking the detestable (by the Jew) route through Samaria. (Jesus did not personally baptize, only His disciples.)
At noon, with the disciples gone into the city of Sychar for food, Jesus encounters a woman at Jacob's well.
An incredible experience follows with Jesus, His disciples (being Jew), and the Samaritans (mixed blood).
Jesus declares Himself to be the source of all living water that gives eternal life. He does a tremendous work among them for two days.
Recognizing Him as the Christ, through both His and the woman's testimony, many believe. Bearing out the saying that a prophet has no
honor in His own country (
2:24-25), He journeys on to Galilee. Having witnessed His miracles in Jerusalem during the previous Passover, the Galileans greatly receive Him.
In Cana again, He performs a second miracle, the healing of a noble man's son in absentia, leading to belief by his entire household.
Going up to a feast in Jerusalem, Jesus confronts and heals an impotent man of 38 years by the pool of Bethesda.
The man is then confronted by the Jews concerning his breaking the Sabbath by carrying his bed. They ask who so instructed him.
Finding him later in the Temple, Jesus cautions him against further sin.
Accosted by the Jews concerning this violation of their Sabbath, Jesus defends His actions by simply stating He does
only that which He sees His Father do. A clear breach now occurs between them. Angered, the Jews desire to kill Him.
Jesus reveals Himself to be the life-giver sent from the Father, foretelling the resurrection and future day of judgment.
The Father has placed all judgment under His authority, and He does it in concert with the Father's will.
(There are many (7) witnesses to Christ; four are listed here, and three in other locations in John.) Because the self-righteous Jews
honor only each other and not God, not even Moses' words, they fail to recognize Jesus as prophesied. They reject Him to their own undoing.
Jesus and His disciples cross Galilee in a ship. A crowd follows by land. Going up into a mountain, He sees the crowd.
The hour being late, He wishes to feed them. After testing Philip, He feeds 5000 with 5 loaves and 2 fishes; 12 baskets are left over.
Perceiving the crowd would make Him king by force, He resists, sending them away. Putting the disciples to sea, He goes alone into
a mountain to pray. Later in the night, Jesus comes to them walking upon the water. He stills a storm. Many follow Jesus from their
personal worldly motives (seeking bread), not recognizing Him as the Christ and Eternal Bread of heaven. Jesus' discourse on
the Bread of Heaven and the eternal assurance of all who come to Him for eternal life. Without spiritual discernment and unable
to accept this teaching, some followers depart, causing Jesus to turn to question the loyalty of those who remain, knowing
one would later betray Him. Peter acknowledges for all there is no one else to turn to who has the words of eternal life.
Christ's brothers fail to believe Jesus is the Messiah. They try unsuccessfully to get Him to show His power to the world
at the Feast of Tabernacles in Jerusalem. He sends them on ahead, and much to everyone's amazement, He secretly appears later
teaching in the Temple. Because of their fear of the Jewish rulers who are looking
to kill Jesus, no one speaks of Him. Jesus confronts them. They deceitfully deny their intent. He rebukes their inconsistency.
Some Jews believe, while others do not understand His teaching. Many have differing opinions concerning Christ. Amazed at His teaching,
the Court's (Sanhedrin) officers fail to arrest Him, duly disappointing their rulers. Everyone departs for their own home.
After spending the night in Mt. Olivet, Jesus is found teaching in the Temple
early the next morning by the Pharisees who bring to Him a woman caught in adultery. He is not fooled by their attempt to
discredit Him in Moses' law. (The guilty man is required to be brought also (
Lev.20:10;
Deu.22:23-24).
After silently slinking away, each convicted of his own sin, Jesus forgives and dismisses the woman. Later, the Pharisees object
to Jesus' witness to Himself being the Light of the world. He proceeds to instruct them concerning His relationship with the Father.
He condemns their sinful condition. Some believe, but many don't, and Jesus continues in discourse with those. After informing them
their father is Satan, they call Him a Samaritan with a devil. Still unbelieving, they stand in stark contrast to Abraham, who rejoiced to see His day.
They do not understand, leading Jesus to declare His Eternal existence. Enraged, they take up stones to kill Him. He slips away.
On the Sabbath, Jesus heals a man blind from birth, who then goes to wash in the Pool of Siloam. A great controversy
develops over Jesus' legitimacy. Knowing for certain the source of the power and sight he received, the blind man believes.
The Pharisees will not accept this miracle as a sufficient sign to His claims. They are spiritually blind, Jesus declares.
Using the parables of the Good Shepherd and the Door, Jesus continues His discourse for further insight for them
to His clear identity. He clearly reveals He has full authority and power over His own life. Again a division occurs
among them, some calling Him mad, while others defend Him. With the arrival of winter (December), Jesus is in Jerusalem
in Solomon's Porch at the Temple (rather than in the open courts) during the Feast of Dedication.
The Jews again question Him about His previous works, causing Him to declare His unity with the Father. Intending to stone Him,
they accuse Him of blasphemy, but Jesus refutes their charge with Scripture (
Ps.82). He escapes them, and with His disciples, goes beyond Jordan. He is warmly welcomed by the followers of the Baptist (now dead)
who are living in the region.
Listen to this young German Christian artist create, in the moment, the composition he later entitiled, "Prayer". (We love his T-shirt. Take a close look. Expand and freeze frame.)
WEF Official Calls for AI to Re-Write the Bible 'Correctly'
"In a few years, there might be religions that are actually correct … just think about a religion whose holy book is written by an AI. That could be a reality in a few years," states WEF advisor Yuval Noah Harari, "a homosexual, Israeli author and historian who holds mostly to atheistic beliefs in spirituality," - Charismamag.com.
Transgender Lutheran pastor on the Bible's clear line of male & female: "It's hard to relate it to modern-day times b/c it wasn't written for 2024. It was written for then. When we read in the scripture that God created man and woman, yes, and god created everyone else, as well." pic.twitter.com/rFIKhlv7OW
To the cast down and disheartened, stop and remember the joy of the beginning of your new birth. Remember, there is no battle you face that He has not already fought and overcome. The victory is yours. Embrace it.
Featured Sermon
The New Heaven and New Earth - 7/14/1963
Revelation 21:1-8: And I saw a new heaven and a new earth: for the first heaven and the first earth were passed away; and there was no more sea. And I John saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down from God out of heaven, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband.
An Expectant Father Is Never To Be Feared When Entering At Opposite Ends His Avenue Of Prayer!... Read More
The miracle is not that He lets you live, rather, He prevents you from succumbing in His Holy presence at your meeting.
Righteousness meeting unrighteousness. And as you stand exposed in His radiant presence, He has not come empty-handed. He has brought
a robe, a costly one, purchased at Calvary, whereby you adorn to rightfully remain in His Presence.
And so you walk, Father and son, two hearts woven as one, clothed in the Protective Robe made possible by His Other Son.
Because you have trusted, you no longer fear!
THIS IS PRAYER!
To Walk In Calm Communion, Two Friends Conversing. Both Hearts Open. Perfect Love, Giving No Place To Fear. Able To Hear, His Will To You, Now Made Clear.
(Lk.24:15,32)
AND SO PRAY:
"Thank you, Father, for the vesture of prayer that my Savior provided, making it possible for my presence in yours."
"And when they could not come nigh unto Him for the press, they uncovered the roof where he was: and when they had broken it up, they let down the bed wherein the sick of the palsy lay."
Faith is full of inventions. The house was full, a crowd blocked up the door, but faith found a way of getting at the Lord and placing the palsied man before Him. If we cannot get sinners where Jesus is by ordinary methods we must use extraordinary ones... Read More
It seems, according to Luke 5:19, that a tiling had to be removed, which would make dust and cause a measure of danger to those below, but where the case is very urgent we must not mind running some risks and shocking some proprieties. Jesus was there to heal, and therefore fall what might, faith ventured all so that her poor paralyzed charge might have his sins forgiven. O that we had more daring faith among us! Cannot we, dear reader, seek it this morning for ourselves and for our fellow-workers, and will we not try to-day to perform some gallant act for the love of souls and the glory of the Lord.
The world is constantly inventing; genius serves all the purposes of human desire: cannot faith invent too, and reach by some new means the outcasts who lie perishing around us? It was the presence of Jesus which excited victorious courage in the four bearers of the palsied man: is not the Lord among us now? Have we seen His face for ourselves this morning? Have we felt His healing power in our own souls? If so, then through door, through window, or through roof, let us, breaking through all impediments, labour to bring poor souls to Jesus. All means are good and decorous when faith and love are truly set on winning souls. If hunger for bread can break through stone walls, surely hunger for souls is not to be hindered in its efforts. O Lord, make us quick to suggest methods of reaching Thy poor sin-sick ones, and bold to carry them out at all hazards.
Concerning separation of church and state, here are
the decisions of the modern United States Supreme Court:... Read More
The First Amendment has erected a wall between church and state. That wall must be kept high and impregnable.
We could not approve the slightest breach.1 Everson v. Board of Education, 1947.
It is unconstitutional to offer verbal prayers in a school, regardless of denominational neutrality and voluntary participation.
Engel v. Vitale, 1962;2 Abington v. Schempp, 1963;3 Commissioner of Education v. School Committee of Leyden, 19714...
"Blessed is the man that endureth temptation: for when he is tried, he shall receive the crown of life, which the Lord hath promised
to them that love him. Let no man say when he is tempted, I am tempted of God: for God cannot be tempted with evil, neither tempteth he any man:
But every man is tempted, when he is drawn away of his own lust, and enticed. Then when lust hath conceived, it bringeth forth sin: and sin,
when it is finished, bringeth forth death."
The question is asked: When tempted, where is the line that distinguishes between sin and none sin? If one does not feel drawn
towards a temptation (have a desire towards), where then is the need for resistance?... Read More
If two are faced with the identical wrong and the first easily, without thought (enticement), turns away and the second is enticed but after some
internal conflict, whether great or small, renews his strength and then turns away, who has the victory? The first can boast of his own strength and say,
"Because I was strong, I was not tempted in the least!" But the second is thankful of heart in that his strength came not from within, else he knows he
would have given in; but it came from without—from a source other than himself. The first is proud, the second humble. For he knows God, not he himself,
was his strength and redeemer...(I Peter 5:5-6)
The consequences of the magnitude of such a broad scale world-wide implementation of a "new church model" cannot be ignored. It must be examined by the serious Bible student and Christian! It must be looked at in light of Bible prophecy. We must heed the warnings of both Jesus' own words when He walked the earth and those inspired by the Holy Spirit written later for our advantage in alertness of end-time events and trends. Not to do so would be perilous. So, I have prayerfully written 5 articles on this demonic phenonemonen with hopes they will help you to understand how serious this modern attack is on the true church of Christ - Articles on the Modern Church.
The End-Time Deception
Sometimes in life the choice between two paths seems almost indistinguishable. It may not be one of your doing but there it is anyway.
You may wonder how it came about but wonder as you may it's not going away.
You may think because it is not too distinguishable it is of little consequence so your choice is not really going to impact you in the short-term—and you hope in the long term.
The day has come we are faced with such a choice. It is not one of our doing but we all have to make it.
But before you do, I ask this one simple question for serious consideration: If you consented to wear the government's and businesses' mask today will you wear their mark tomorrow?
For that day surely is coming—sooner than you think. They know the more we go along with the false and illegal choices forced upon us the easier in time it becomes.
They've done their studies. It has all been war-gamed out by them. Look it up.
...Read entire article
Dear Sirs,
I teach Old Testament to a group of young people who have committed their lives to Christ and are involved in a national
group called Master's Commission. I would like permission to share your tests with them during a 10 week Bible Course. thank you... dale rains
Welcome to Adam2.org!
I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing. - John 15:5
And the same day, when the even was come, he saith unto them, Let us pass over unto the other side. - Mark 4:35
...weeping may endure for a night, but joy cometh in the morning. - Psalms 30:5b
...strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it. - Matthew 7:14
...And the Spirit of God moved upon the face of the waters. - Genesis 1:2b
The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters. - Psalms 23:1-2
In a day when voices are so many, so loud and shrill, I find the following poem is always worth the while to sit quietly and frequently read now more than ever. I won't speak to all that is upsetting to us in the world at present. You know it all too well! I ask only the following: 
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A couple of points need to be made at the outset. First, with few exceptions when I think their work needs to be supported,
I make it a practice not to recommend books for a reader to buy that would profit anyone by my recommendations.
There are some I wish not to put a dime into their pockets. Some preachers sum up their entire ministry by the numbers
and titles of books they've written, one I saw recently strewn out over a timeline of their 40 years in the pulpit.
To be popular and published seems to be the aim if you're going to leave your mark in history. Amazing!
Many make the argument that one has to read another's entire work to speak legitimately to it is a false one. One doesn't have to
experience climbing a mountain before being able to describe and define it to be a mountain. It isn't necessary to see
all the rocks and crevices in minute detail to know it is a part of the whole. It doesn't take microscopic examination
of an apple and orange to determine the difference when seeking to purchase one or the other at a grocery. Nor do I have
to consume all of both for that distinction. A taste sometimes is all that is necessary to discern the identity of its content.
Why would I want to consume the whole when I want to dispose of the first bite? Scripture teaches you will know them by their fruit.
Certainly, if one is new on the scene and untasted, it may take consuming several pieces of their work before learning from what
perspective they speak or write. I won't argue that point. But once 
Persistant Faith
Mark 2:4
The Separation of Church and State
Is Enticement Sin?
