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
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denomination, church or other controlling entity or otherwise, with the exception of... Read more...►
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If you aren't sure what your state of life will be when this one is over, we encourage you to seriously
consider this while you have opportunity. Nothing in this life you will do will be as important!
Likely, you have made every preparation for your present life.
You owe it to your self to prepare for what comes next. It won't cost you a thing! Continue reading...►
Excerpts From Studies' Area ▼
Excerpt from: In His Presence.
"A self surrendered in the silence of His presence is a soul at peace in Him who reclaimed it! The earth and its burdens no
longer bind you and you are free to walk the stars, revel in His glory, bathed in His love. Time affects only the earthly,
but your spirit is free to soar the heavenlies -- and the hours pass quickly, while In His Presence!
To journey where no mortal may go: This Is Prayer!"
Excerpt from: Proofs of Growing In Grace. 1. Less temptation to focus on troubles or talk about them to others... 2. Less temptation to resent and retaliate when insulted or abused... 3. Joy under crosses, disappointment, and severe pain...
Each month a featured writing from different authors will be posted below as a main feature in our center section.
The nature of these writings will vary from devotional, to inspirational, topical and informative for the current
state of our Christian culture. You may access this full feature with the link below. ▼
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:
Sometimes in life the choice between two paths seems almost indistinguishable. It may not be one of your doing but there it is anyway. You may wonder how it came about but wonder as you may it's not going away. You may think because it is not too distinguishable it is of little consequence so your choice is not really going to impact you in the short-term—and you hope in the long term.
The day has come we are faced with such a choice. It is not one of our doing but we all have to make it. But before you do, I ask this one simple question for serious consideration: If you consented to wear the government's and businesses' mask today will you wear their mark tomorrow? For that day surely is coming—sooner than you think. They know the more we go along with the false and illegal choices forced upon us the easier in time it becomes. They've done their studies. It has all been war-gamed out by them. Look it up. (Start with just these 3: 1.2001 - Dark Winter, conducted by Johns Hopkins Center for Civilian Biodefense Strategies, in collaboration with the Center for Strategic and International Studies, the Analytic Services Institute for Homeland Security, and the Oklahoma National Memorial Institute for the Prevention of Terrorism, 2.2019 - Event 201, conducted by the Johns Hopkins Center for Health Security in partnership with the World Economic Forum and the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation & 3.Urban Outbreak 2019, conducted by the Naval War College and some 50+ "experts".)
First, they asked you to wear the mask and many thought, "oh well, it's no big deal; besides, they said it was only for a short time." But it's been well over a year and still over 90% of the population is wearing them even though the overwhelming science has shown that it doesn't provide any benefit. To the contrary, they insomuch admit it but they say, "wear it anyway!" With no pun intended, now they rub it in your face to say just one mask isn't enough. You must wear two, even three, four, and Lord Fauci is saying: well, maybe five might not hurt. Just recently, a study was done of children's masks and what they found when microscopically examined is enough to scare any parent into burning them, immediately—or should.
I am appalled to see how many have been deceived by this lie—grown men and women walking along in the scorching sun with it pulled up to their eyes, driving by themselves at 80 mph down an LA freeway. Jesus forewarned us that many would fall prey to a great deception in the end. Through the many years and throughout my studies I often wondered what would be that "Great Deception" in the last days that would lead astray an entire world. A clue was left for us in His Word. There can be no doubt now. We see it manifested every day as we walk among those who have been--masks, shots, "social distancing", church closures and all the many other anti-human acts they brain-wash the masses with.
The Book of Revelation warns us that big pharma (Greek for sorceries) will be the single greatest avenue by which the earth will be deceived thus setting the stage for the Antichrist to step forward as a "savior". Make no mistake about it, this incremental deception—first the mask, then the shot(s), then...?—asks you to surrender your will to a power other than that of yours or of God. It is satanic. It is the same choice, and great deception, in the beginning with Adam and his wife. You surrender your sovereignty?, your body is no longer yours. Let me ask you here this profound question posed by Jesus Himself: For whoever wishes to save his life will lose it; but whoever loses his life for My sake will find it. For what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world and forfeits his soul? Or what will a man give in exchange for his soul? (Mt.16:25-26) Never before has this verse had greater meaning. Death all around and they promise life if...if you surrender to their conditions. NO! the Christian must say. NO! I will not surrender my body that has already been given to God as a sacrifice. It is holy. (Rom.12:1-2) It is a sacrilige they ask of you. NO! My body is no longer mine to surrender to your shot.
Turns out, that small choice to wear the mask isn't so small after all. Now they tell you you must have the "shots(s)". The mark surely is not far behind. Don't you see the incremental steps Satan puts before us to ease us into full compliance? They've even told us as much. Study their writings. Study their words. You owe it to yourself and those you love, just say NO! Yes, it will cost you. Already has many, even their life. But they died with their soul intact. They overcame.
When it comes to matters of faith, it is eternally crucial we get these choices right because there may be no coming back from them. But I'm wondering. For many, is it already too late? With well over 50% of Americans now having been "vaccinated", as reported, 80% in some states, enough research has come in to cause many top leading scientists to raise the alarm. The vaccine is killing more than Covid. Consequently, it may be too late for those who have been deceived by corrupt officials and ignorant and Biblically incompetent pastors. But this is only the beginning.
Those same scientists, who have studied at length the design and complications of these "shots"—the vaccine pushers admit they are not vaccines—in increasing numbers are telling us, some without doubt, millions are going to die within the next 2 years. Think about that for a moment. You likely know someone who has already taken the "shot." Or, unfortunately, you may have yourself. If you or your loved one is one of these, seek expert medical help. Many are working tirelessly to discover ways to mitigate the damage, and death, that will come.
At first, Satan's steps for submission and compliance seem innocuous and incremental. For many, the choice is not very certain and some plunge headlong ahead hoping they are making the right one. But again, enough evidence and experience is mounting now that it should become quite apparent to one who keeps an open mind that the choice made, just as with the mask, was the wrong choice. We can actually see no good is coming of it. Each day the tragedies mount. Countries are banning them. Manufacturers are even pulling them. But yet, here in America, it's full steam ahead by the authoritarians—be damned the science. Even President Trump, to my disappointment, continues to vigorously push them—although I do understand his political reason for doing so.
Now they tell us to take their vaccine even though they admit it won't keep us from getting COVID. Take it anyway, they insist. Buying the lie, people don the mask. They stand in long lines to take the shot without even knowing, or caring, what it contains.
So, at this point, we are left with many troubling questions. Where is it going to end for you—when you say they have gone too far? When is it going to end for you? When and what is going to be your choice? Have you already made it? What will be the long-term consequences of your choice? What will be your fate if you go along? What will be your future if you don't resist? These all need to be considered because the choice is grave.
The path ahead is becoming much clearer today than it was just over a year ago. Choose carefully, my friend, for God is not the author of confusion. Seek and know His will for your life in these last troublesome days. Don't fall prey to the Great Lie, the Great Deception. At all cost, keep yourself pure as the Bride of Christ. DO NOT yoke yourself to another.
Finally, as encouragement, see what the Bible says is promised to those who overcome. Think of these when Satan casts his darkness over your soul. This is how you overcome—faith, faith in His promises. Learn them. Know them. For they will strengthen you in those times. And remember, Satan is the Father of Lies!
- Author: Ken Livingston - Monday, June 20, 2020 - Updated June 16, 2021 - Updated June 31, 2022
The following is taken from the Book, Adam2: A Guide For The Walk Home, written by our founder.
It is A Commentary On The Gospel Of John, complete with a background look at the contemporary Jewish groups active in Jesus' day.
It includes a summary of each chapter, a redacted study of each disciple, a brief study of Gnosticism of the time, pertinent timelines,
and much more. Each chapter of study includes extensive Biblical references to the notes on the chapter.
A chronological excerpt of each section will be posted here at the beginning of each month. You can access free of charge at any time
a complete online digital version
for your further study. In addition, a link will be provided to purchase the book on CD to install on
your own computer for convenience of study and print. All we ask is that you observe the stated copyrights as with any book you buy over
the counter, limiting your print to only one hard copy for your own personal use. If further hard copies are necessary,
please contact us for an additional nominal fee. Thank you for your interest in this study. Our hope and prayer is that
through the work of the Holy Spirit as you study you will be blessed by it, and if so, recommend it to a friend.
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.
When Praying, Do Not See Time And Eternity, Earth And Heaven, Being Divided By So Great A Chasm That Cannot Be Bridged By The Holy Spirit Who Lives Within The Heart Ready To Make Intercession For The Sincere Believer!... Read More
As a child, our world was so close we could not yet see in our minds afar; so He seemed so near. But as we grow older our world
expands, our minds stretch, and He, at times to some, seems so distant that we often hear one say, "God, if you are out there or
up there, and if you can hear me...?", as if to say He is just too far away our words may not be able to reach Him. Could this be
one reason Jesus said unless you come as a little child you cannot see the Kingdom of Heaven?
(Mk.10:15;
Lk.18:17;
17:20-21;
John 3:3,5)
THIS IS PRAYER!
His Kingdom On Earth! God, Not There, But Here, In My Heart As I Pray: "Thy Kingdom Come." This, I Must Believe When I Pray!
AND SO PRAY:
"Forgive me, Heavenly Father, when I doubt whether you hear when I pray. And may I always pray in such a way that reveals a
childlike faith in a close and Intimate Father."
Our fruit is found from our God as to union. The fruit of the branch is directly traceable to the root. Sever the connection, the branch dies, and no fruit is produced. By virtue of our union with Christ we bring forth fruit... Read More
Every bunch of grapes have been first in the root, it has passed through the stem, and flowed through the sap vessels, and fashioned itself externally into fruit, but it was first in the stem; so also every good work was first in Christ, and then is brought forth in us. O Christian, prize this precious union to Christ; for it must be the source of all the fruitfulness which thou canst hope to know. If thou wert not joined to Jesus Christ, thou wouldst be a barren bough indeed.
Our fruit comes from God as to spiritual providence. When the dew-drops fall from heaven, when the cloud looks down from on high, and is about to distil its liquid treasure, when the bright sun swells the berries of the cluster, each heavenly boon may whisper to the tree and say, 'From me is thy fruit found.' The fruit owes much to the root--that is essential to fruitfulness--but it owes very much also to external influences. How much we owe to God's grace-providence! in which He provides us constantly with quickening, teaching, consolation, strength, or whatever else we want. To this we owe our all of usefulness or virtue.
Our fruit comes from God as to wise husbandry. The gardener's sharp-edged knife promotes the fruitfulness of the tree, by thinning the clusters, and by cutting off superfluous shoots. So is it, Christian, with that pruning which the Lord gives to thee. 'My Father is the husbandman. Every branch in Me that beareth not fruit He taketh away; and every branch that beareth fruit He purgeth it, that it may bring forth more fruit.' Since our God is the author of our spiritual graces, let us give to Him all the glory of our salvation.
For years, the media have told a story that lends itself
to tabloid headlines: Secret Books of the Bible Found! Church Suppresses Real Gospel! Historical Jesus Never Said Those Things!
The news is that naive Christian belief in the Gospels has been exploded by the careful investigations of a new generation of biblical scholars.
It makes for great copy in the newsweeklies and on PBS... Read More
In "Hidden Gospels: How the Search for Jesus Lost Its Way," (Oxford, 260 pages, $25) Philip Jenkins examines the motives and methodologies of these radical scholars. He finds that their agenda is hardly scientific or objective. They are on a mission. They want to prove that orthodox Christianity is an artifact of early church politics and has nothing to do with what Jesus actually said or did....
"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.
Giants Among Us
Have you ever stood among the giant redwoods of Northern California?
They exist in groves, some measured in square miles, others only in acres.
There are small groves of great trees, old trees, whose rings record years of human history—some hundreds, others thousands of years in growth.
There are large groves of smaller trees, younger trees, those who do not possess the record of their antecedents. Our history awaits to be written into them.
They are community.
They stand in unity.
They are silent, yet speak with one voice.
They know but One Creator, One God.
They reach up to the same heaven.
They are rooted in the same earth.
They drink from the same hidden stream.
They are nourished by the same unseen Source.
They are majestic, unpretentious, grand, as though the perfect sentinel.
They speak with a whisper when still but roar in the mighty wind...
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