Book of Luke, Chapter 2

 Chapter 2 

The Birth of Jesus Christ

2 In those days a decree went out from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be registered. 2 This was the first registration when Quirinius was governor of Syria. 3 And all went to be registered, each to his own town. 4 And Joseph also went up from Galilee, from the town of Nazareth, to Judea, to the city of David, which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and lineage of David, 5 to be registered with Mary, his betrothed, who was with child. 6 And while they were there, the time came for her to give birth. 7 And she gave birth to her firstborn son and wrapped him in swaddling cloths and laid him in a manger, because there was no place for them in the inn.

The Shepherds and the Angels

8 And in the same region there were shepherds out in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. 9 And an angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were filled with great fear. 10 And the angel said to them, “Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. 11 For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. 12 And this will be a sign for you: you will find a baby wrapped in swaddling cloths and lying in a manger.” 13 And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying,

14 “Glory to God in the highest,

    and on earth peace among those with whom he is pleased!”

15 When the angels went away from them into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, “Let us go over to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has made known to us.” 16 And they went with haste and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby lying in a manger. 17 And when they saw it, they made known the saying that had been told them concerning this child. 18 And all who heard it wondered at what the shepherds told them. 19 But Mary treasured up all these things, pondering them in her heart. 20 And the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all they had heard and seen, as it had been told them.

21 And at the end of eight days, when he was circumcised, he was called Jesus, the name given by the angel before he was conceived in the womb.

Jesus Presented at the Temple

22 And when the time came for their purification according to the Law of Moses, they brought him up to Jerusalem to present him to the Lord 23 (as it is written in the Law of the Lord, “Every male who first opens the womb shall be called holy to the Lord”) 24 and to offer a sacrifice according to what is said in the Law of the Lord, “a pair of turtledoves, or two young pigeons.” 25 Now there was a man in Jerusalem, whose name was Simeon, and this man was righteous and devout, waiting for the consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was upon him. 26 And it had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not see death before he had seen the Lord's Christ. 27 And he came in the Spirit into the temple, and when the parents brought in the child Jesus, to do for him according to the custom of the Law, 28 he took him up in his arms and blessed God and said,

29 “Lord, now you are letting your servant depart in peace,

    according to your word;

30 for my eyes have seen your salvation

31     that you have prepared in the presence of all peoples,

32 a light for revelation to the Gentiles,

    and for glory to your people Israel.”

33 And his father and his mother marveled at what was said about him. 34 And Simeon blessed them and said to Mary his mother, “Behold, this child is appointed for the fall and rising of many in Israel, and for a sign that is opposed 35 (and a sword will pierce through your own soul also), so that thoughts from many hearts may be revealed.”

36 And there was a prophetess, Anna, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher. She was advanced in years, having lived with her husband seven years from when she was a virgin, 37 and then as a widow until she was eighty-four. She did not depart from the temple, worshiping with fasting and prayer night and day. 38 And coming up at that very hour she began to give thanks to God and to speak of him to all who were waiting for the redemption of Jerusalem.

The Return to Nazareth

39 And when they had performed everything according to the Law of the Lord, they returned into Galilee, to their own town of Nazareth. 40 And the child grew and became strong, filled with wisdom. And the favor of God was upon him.

The Boy Jesus in the Temple

41 Now his parents went to Jerusalem every year at the Feast of the Passover. 42 And when he was twelve years old, they went up according to custom. 43 And when the feast was ended, as they were returning, the boy Jesus stayed behind in Jerusalem. His parents did not know it, 44 but supposing him to be in the group they went a day's journey, but then they began to search for him among their relatives and acquaintances, 45 and when they did not find him, they returned to Jerusalem, searching for him. 46 After three days they found him in the temple, sitting among the teachers, listening to them and asking them questions. 47 And all who heard him were amazed at his understanding and his answers. 48 And when his parents[g] saw him, they were astonished. And his mother said to him, “Son, why have you treated us so? Behold, your father and I have been searching for you in great distress.” 49 And he said to them, “Why were you looking for me? Did you not know that I must be in my Father's house?” 50 And they did not understand the saying that he spoke to them. 51 And he went down with them and came to Nazareth and was submissive to them. And his mother treasured up all these things in her heart.

52 And Jesus increased in wisdom and in stature and in favor with God and man.

2 Peter 1, Part 9

 Blind and in danger. 

Welcome. If you have been with us for the past 8 weeks, you know that we have been doing an in-depth study of 2 Peter 1. We have been going through it word for word, and really diving into not only what it says, but the meaning behind it. I encourage you to check out the whole study in the archives if you missed any. Today? Today is going to be heavy. It really is. It may even be a bit offensive to some of you. It may go against what you heard in Sunday School. It may go against what you have heard from your last church, family member, or elsewhere. It may go against what you choose to believe. But I, especially in these types of messages, beg you, to read them for yourself. Read the Word of God. Pray about it. See it for what it actually says.

What are we going to talk about today? Losing your salvation. Yup. Is it once saved always saved? Or can you, once saved, actually lose your salvation? Remember, we are going through 2 Peter 1 and we have gotten to this passage.

"For whoever lacks these qualities is so nearsighted that he is blind, having forgotten that he was cleansed from his former sins. Therefore, brothers, be all the more diligent to confirm your calling and election, for if you practice these qualities you will never fall. For in this way there will be richly provided for you an entrance into the eternal kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ." 2 Peter 1:9-11

Now, what are the qualities that Peter is referring to?

"For this very reason, make every effort to supplement your faith with virtue, and virtue with knowledge, and knowledge with self-control, and self-control with steadfastness, and steadfastness with godliness, and godliness with brotherly affection, and brotherly affection with love. For if these qualities are yours and are increasing, they keep you from being ineffective or unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ." 2 Peter 1:5-8

Faith, goodness, knowledge, self-control, perseverance, godliness, brotherly affection, and love. Read that again. This is what we will be talking about today.

"For whoever lacks these qualities is so nearsighted that he is blind, having forgotten that he was cleansed from his former sins."

Why is this a big deal? Because it begs the question of once saved always saved? If that is the case, then what's the problem? But is that true? Look what Jesus called the Religious leaders of the day. If anyone was saved it was surely the rulers of the synagogues, and religious elites, right?

"Let them alone; they are blind guides. And if the blind lead the blind, both will fall into a pit." Matthew 15:14

He called them white-washed tombs.

"Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you are like whitewashed tombs, which outwardly appear beautiful, but within are full of dead people's bones and all uncleanness." Matthew 23:27.

He also called these people, the children of the devil.

"You are of your father the devil, and your will is to do your father's desires. He was a murderer from the beginning and does not stand in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he lies, he speaks out of his own character, for he is a liar and the father of lies." John 8:44

This should tell us that even though these people were religious, and they were the leaders of the religions at the time, they were NOT saved. Ok, if we see that, I hope you do, then what about those that are truly saved, can you lose your salvation?

Look what Peter tells us in the next chapter.

"For if, after they have escaped the defilements of the world through the knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, they are again entangled in them and overcome, the last state has become worse for them than the first. For it would have been better for them never to have known the way of righteousness than after knowing it to turn back from the holy commandment delivered to them." 2 Peter 2:20-21

In other words, it would be better if you were never saved, to begin with. That once you are, you then know and understand the truth. If you turn away from that truth, you become even worse off than you were before. Jesus puts it this way.

"When the unclean spirit has gone out of a person, it passes through waterless places seeking rest but finds none. Then it says, ‘I will return to my house from which I came.’ And when it comes, it finds the house empty, swept, and put in order. Then it goes and brings with it seven other spirits eviler than itself, and they enter and dwell there, and the last state of that person is worse than the first. So also will it be with this evil generation." Matthew 12:43-45

When you are not saved, there is nothing preventing you from being controlled by your flesh or even evil itself. You belong to the world. To sin. To death. To the devil even. But once you are saved, all that is put to death, and the evil is cast out. However? According to Jesus? Evil can and does return, and when allowed, the state of the person is far worst off. Look here in Hebrews.

"And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near. For if we go on sinning deliberately after receiving the knowledge of the truth, there no longer remains a sacrifice for sins, but a fearful expectation of judgment, and a fury of fire that will consume the adversaries. Anyone who has set aside the law of Moses dies without mercy on the evidence of two or three witnesses. How much worse punishment, do you think, will be deserved by the one who has trampled underfoot the Son of God, and has profaned the blood of the covenant by which he was sanctified, and has outraged the Spirit of grace? For we know him who said, “Vengeance is mine; I will repay.” And again, “The Lord will judge his people.” It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God." Hebrews 10:24-31

Read that again and highlight it if you need to.

"For if we go on sinning deliberately after receiving the knowledge of the truth, there no longer remains a sacrifice for sins,"

"There no longer remains a sacrifice for sin." Now do not misunderstand. We all sin. As long as you have a repentant heart and are trying to overcome that sin, all is good. But if you chose to sin, and say something like, "Hey I'm saved, I can do whatever I want," or "I do not have to do what God tells me to in His Word," Then there is no longer Jesus's sacrifice for you. Look what it says.

"How much worse punishment, do you think, will be deserved by the one who has trampled underfoot the Son of God, and has profaned the blood of the covenant by which he was sanctified, and has outraged the Spirit of grace?"

If you accept Jesus. You allow His blood to be your blood, His sacrifice to be your sacrifice, and His death, to be the substitute for you, then you decide that you do not want to follow what the Word says, and you choose to accept sin or justify sin, or just go on sinning, then you are "Trampling under foot the Son of God, and profaning His blood." Does that sound like once saved always saved? God, is talking to the saved. He is talking to the Church. The body of Christ. Can you lose your Salvation? It would appear, the answer is, yes. It seems that the human concept of once saved always saved is not a truthful saying.

It does make sense if you think about it. If you come to me, and say, please adopt me into your family. I agree. However, I tell you to be a part of my family, I will require from you the same as I would require from all my children. If you are a faithful and good child, you, as with all my children, will inherit part of my vast estate and fortune. You will receive all the same things that my own children will receive and you will be loved as one of them.

However, you decide to stop coming to my house. You decide to go off and do your own thing. You decide to forsake me and my family. That is totally your choice. By doing this though, you are disqualifying yourself from all my blessings and promises. I can not bless you, help you, or even love you if you are no longer with me. As in all things, the choice is yours. As it says in Revelation 2:4-5

"But I have this against you, that you have abandoned the love you had at first. Remember therefore from where you have fallen; repent, and do the works you did at first. If not, I will come to you and remove your lampstand from its place, unless you repent."

Once saved always saved? That is an entire church God is talking to here. This is what Peter is talking about, and we went into an in-depth study of these qualities. Faith, goodness, knowledge, self-control, perseverance, godliness, brotherly affection, and love. Why? Because if you work out your faith, exercise your spirit, and train it to learn and grow in these qualities, then and only then,

"For if these qualities are yours and are increasing, they keep you from being ineffective or unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ."

And they will keep you from going blind and forgetful of your walk in life. Stay focused on God.

"If then you have been raised with Christ, seek the things that are above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Let your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth." Colossians 3:1-2

Do you know Jesus as your Savior? Have you been adopted into the Family of God? If not, say this Prayer. Right now. Wherever you may be. Say it in your own words, and do not doubt in your heart. God will hear you. He will send the Spirit of Life to you. Let us Pray.

"Oh heavenly Father, Lord God. I am a sinner. I know this. I know there is nothing I can do to change that. But I know you can. I accept Jesus's sacrifice for me. I believed He rose from the dead. I repent my sins. Please send the Spirit of Adoption into my life. Help me to get to know the real you. Save me. Please. In the name of Jesus, Amen!"

That's it. It really is that simple. Now go tell someone what you have just done. "That if you shall confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in your heart that God hath raised him from the dead, You shall be saved." Romans 10:9. You need to find a Church that God leads you to and be Baptized the way Jesus said to be. You are now a Child of God. A New Creature. You "have put off the old man with his deeds, and have put on the new man, which is renewed in knowledge after the image of him that created him."Colossians 3:10

If you want to tell me, comment, questions, give testimonials, or just say "Hi," the Email is opntalk@gmail.com

The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Ghost be with you all. Amen. 2 Corinthians 13

Until next time, be blessed, be a blessing, and Jesus is Lord!!

Book of Luke, Chapter 1

 Chapter 1

Dedication to Theophilus

1 Inasmuch as many have undertaken to compile a narrative of the things that have been accomplished among us, 2 just as those who from the beginning were eyewitnesses and ministers of the word have delivered them to us, 3 it seemed good to me also, having followed all things closely for some time past, to write an orderly account for you, most excellent Theophilus, 4 that you may have certainty concerning the things you have been taught.

Birth of John the Baptist Foretold

5 In the days of Herod, king of Judea, there was a priest named Zechariah, of the division of Abijah. And he had a wife from the daughters of Aaron, and her name was Elizabeth. 6 And they were both righteous before God, walking blamelessly in all the commandments and statutes of the Lord. 7 But they had no child because Elizabeth was barren, and both were advanced in years.

8 Now while he was serving as priest before God when his division was on duty, 9 according to the custom of the priesthood, he was chosen by lot to enter the temple of the Lord and burn incense. 10 And the whole multitude of the people were praying outside at the hour of incense. 11 And there appeared to him an angel of the Lord standing on the right side of the altar of incense. 12 And Zechariah was troubled when he saw him, and fear fell upon him. 13 But the angel said to him, “Do not be afraid, Zechariah, for your prayer has been heard, and your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son, and you shall call his name John. 14 And you will have joy and gladness, and many will rejoice at his birth, 15 for he will be great before the Lord. And he must not drink wine or strong drink, and he will be filled with the Holy Spirit, even from his mother's womb. 16 And he will turn many of the children of Israel to the Lord their God, 17 and he will go before him in the spirit and power of Elijah, to turn the hearts of the fathers to the children, and the disobedient to the wisdom of the just, to make ready for the Lord a people prepared.”

18 And Zechariah said to the angel, “How shall I know this? For I am an old man, and my wife is advanced in years.” 19 And the angel answered him, “I am Gabriel. I stand in the presence of God, and I was sent to speak to you and to bring you this good news. 20 And behold, you will be silent and unable to speak until the day that these things take place, because you did not believe my words, which will be fulfilled in their time.” 21 And the people were waiting for Zechariah, and they were wondering at his delay in the temple. 22 And when he came out, he was unable to speak to them, and they realized that he had seen a vision in the temple. And he kept making signs to them and remained mute. 23 And when his time of service was ended, he went to his home.

24 After these days his wife Elizabeth conceived, and for five months she kept herself hidden, saying, 25 “Thus the Lord has done for me in the days when he looked on me, to take away my reproach among people.”

Birth of Jesus Foretold

26 In the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent from God to a city of Galilee named Nazareth, 27 to a virgin betrothed to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David. And the virgin's name was Mary. 28 And he came to her and said, “Greetings, O favored one, the Lord is with you!” 29 But she was greatly troubled at the saying, and tried to discern what sort of greeting this might be. 30 And the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God. 31 And behold, you will conceive in your womb and bear a son, and you shall call his name Jesus. 32 He will be great and will be called the Son of the Highest. And the Lord God will give to him the throne of his father David, 33 and he will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and of his kingdom, there will be no end.”

34 And Mary said to the angel, “How will this be since I am a virgin?”

35 And the angel answered her, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Highest will overshadow you; therefore the child to be born will be called holy—the Son of God. 36 And behold, your relative Elizabeth in her old age has also conceived a son, and this is the sixth month with her who was called barren. 37 For nothing will be impossible with God.” 38 And Mary said, “Behold, I am the servant of the Lord; let it be to me according to your word.” And the angel departed from her.

Mary Visits Elizabeth

39 In those days Mary arose and went with haste into the hill country, to a town in Judah, 40 and she entered the house of Zechariah and greeted Elizabeth. 41 And when Elizabeth heard the greeting of Mary, the baby leaped in her womb. And Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit, 42 and she exclaimed with a loud cry, “Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb! 43 And why is this granted to me that the mother of my Lord should come to me? 44 For behold, when the sound of your greeting came to my ears, the baby in my womb leaped for joy. 45 And blessed is she who believed that there would be a fulfillment of what was spoken to her from the Lord.”

2 Peter 1, Part 8

  Brotherly affection, love

"For this very reason, make every effort to supplement your faith with virtue, and virtue with knowledge, and knowledge with self-control, and self-control with steadfastness, and steadfastness with godliness, and godliness with brotherly affection, and brotherly affection with love. For if these qualities are yours and are increasing, they keep you from being ineffective or unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. For whoever lacks these qualities is so nearsighted that he is blind, having forgotten that he was cleansed from his former sins. Therefore, brothers, be all the more diligent to confirm your calling and election, for if you practice these qualities you will never fall. For in this way there will be richly provided for you an entrance into the eternal kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ." 2 Peter 1:5-11

We are currently going through 2 Peter 1. We are doing this in-depth study nearly word for word. If you have been with us you know we went through the greetings and the "For this very reason" or the reason we need to listen to what Peter is telling us here. Last time we talked about godliness. If you are following along it looks like this.

"For this very reason, make every effort to supplement your faith with virtue, and virtue with knowledge, and knowledge with self-control, and self-control with steadfastness, and steadfastness with godliness,"

We talked about why, faith, virtue, knowledge, self-control, standing firm, and what godliness means. If you missed anything, you can go back to the archives and get caught up if you so choose. Today, we are going to talk about brotherly affection and the easy one to talk about, love.

What does that even mean? The Word says this.

"Love one another with brotherly affection. Outdo one another in showing honor." Romans 12:10

A little bit later, Peter rights this in 1 Peter 3:8

"Finally, all of you, have unity of mind, sympathy, brotherly love, a tender heart, and a humble mind."

When we dive into this we see that brotherly affection is only capable when you have love. What is a Brother? A loved one. A family member. I have this picture of my son Eli walking hand and hand with his sister in the mall when they were both little. You could see the look on his face, "Ain't nobody messing with my sister." He was walking with her, exploring together, and he was protecting her all for one reason. He loves her. Oh, they are siblings. They fight, argue, yell, and say some bad things to each other sometimes, but if anyone else was to get involved? Family unite.

Why is this? Because of Love.

"Love is patient and kind; love does not envy or boast; it is not arrogant or rude. It does not insist on its own way; it is not irritable or resentful; it does not rejoice at wrongdoing, but rejoices with the truth. Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, and endures all things. Love never ends. As for prophecies, they will pass away; as for tongues, they will cease; as for knowledge, it will pass away. 

For we know in part and we prophesy in part, but when the perfect comes, the partial will pass away. When I was a child, I spoke like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child. When I became a man, I gave up childish ways. For now we see in a mirror dimly, but then face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I have been fully known.

So now faith, hope, and love abide, these three; but the greatest of these is love." 1 Corinthians 13 

Love. Did you know that we are commanded to love? As a matter of fact, some say this is the eleventh commandment given to us by Jesus Himself.

"A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another." John 13:34

How did Jesus love us? Yes, He loved us so much that He came and laid down His life for us. We should be willing to do the same if the situation calls for it. Eli would lay down his life for Maya, without a doubt, and without hesitation. Why? Love.

"Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends." John 15:13

Remember when Jesus called us His friends? He said this.

"No longer do I call you servants, for the servant, does not know what his master is doing; but I have called you friends, for all that I have heard from my Father I have made known to you." John 15:15

However, if you really want to grasp the importance of showing love, think of it this way, you are more than friends, you are family. Especially with the Family of God, your fellow children of God, you must show brotherly affection.

"If one member suffers, all suffer together; if one member is honored, all rejoice together."1 Corinthians 12:26

Easy to do if you have love. However, that is not all we are called to do. Jesus tells us this.

“You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ But I say to you, Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, so that you may be sons of your Father who is in heaven. For he makes his sun rise on the evil and on the good and sends rain on the just and on the unjust. For if you love those who love you, what reward do you have? Do not even the tax collectors do the same? And if you greet only your brothers, what more are you doing than others? Do not even the Gentiles do the same? You therefore must be perfect, as your heavenly Father is perfect." Matthew 5:43-48

I understand this is all complicated and may seem difficult to achieve. I mean, look at what Peter is saying here.

"For this very reason, make every effort to supplement your faith with virtue, and virtue with knowledge, and knowledge with self-control, and self-control with steadfastness, and steadfastness with godliness, and godliness with brotherly affection, and brotherly affection with love."

First, you cannot accomplish ANY of this without God. You must first have the Spirit of God in you before you even stand a chance at getting any one of these even remotely correct. Second, you need to exercise these in your life. Like going to a gym and working out your physical body, you have to exercise your faith and you need to train yourself in these qualities.

"For if these qualities are yours and are increasing,"

How are they increasing? Practice. Working them out in your life. When I first started going to the gym, I could not do much. When I stopped going following the accident, I was curling 150 pounds, pulling down more weight than that, and I was doing things I only watched when I first went through the door. Why? Because I kept working out. The same thing comes to your faith. Look here.

"for while bodily training is of some value, godliness is of value in every way, as it holds promise for the present life and also for the life to come." 1 Timothy 4:8

One of the ways it is of much value is this. The more you do these things, the easier they will become. Then we come to another one of those "For this reason." Or "Therefore"

"they keep you from being ineffective or unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ."

If you are following along we have come to this.

"For this very reason, make every effort to supplement your faith with virtue, and virtue with knowledge, and knowledge with self-control, and self-control with steadfastness, and steadfastness with godliness, and godliness with brotherly affection, and brotherly affection with love. For if these qualities are yours and are increasing, they keep you from being ineffective or unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ."

Are you blind? This is what we will be talking about next time. It says this.

"For whoever lacks these qualities is so nearsighted that he is blind, having forgotten that he was cleansed from his former sins."

Be careful not to forget this child of God. Keep exercising your faith and your spirit and grow stronger and wiser in the spirit. Do not become blind. That will do no good to God, or anyone else, including yourself. Do you know Jesus as your Savior? Have you been adopted into the Family of God? If not, say this Prayer. Right now. Wherever you may be. Say it in your own words, and do not doubt in your heart. God will hear you. He will send the Spirit of Life to you. Let us Pray.

"Oh heavenly Father, Lord God. I am a sinner. I know this. I know there is nothing I can do to change that. But I know you can. I accept Jesus's sacrifice for me. I repent my sins. Please send the Spirit of Adoption into my life. Help me to get to know the real you. Save me. Please. In the name of Jesus, Amen!"

That's it. It really is that simple. Now go tell someone what you have just done. "That if you shall confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus, and shall believe in your heart that God hath raised him from the dead, you shall be saved." Romans 10:9. You need to find a Church that God leads you to and be Baptized the way Jesus said to be. You are now a Child of God. A New Creature. You "have put off the old man with his deeds, and have put on the new man, which is renewed in knowledge after the image of him that created him."Colossians 3:10

If you want to tell me, comment, questions, give testimonials, or just say "Hi," the Email is opntalk@gmail.com

The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Ghost be with you all. Amen. {2 Corinthians 13}

Until next time, be blessed, be a blessing, and Jesus IS the Lord of all!

Coming soon, New Bible Study

 Book of Luke

Hey folks,  if you have been with us here at TAG, {The Truth According to God} for the past 28 weeks, congratulations, you just read through the entire book of Acts.  That's right, we wrapped up Acts last week. 

Some people find it truly difficult, and some see it as nearly impossible, to read through the word of God. They struggle to stay on target and find themselves falling away and failing to complete what they start out wanting to do so badly. There are a few reasons for this. 

1 - The Word of God is not natural. It is supernatural. It is alive. It is real and ever working in this world and in people's lives.

"All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work." 2 Timothy 3:16-17

We are natural and crave the things of the flesh, which is opposite of, and even opposed to, the things of God. Sometimes we pick up the Bible and try to read it with our carnal minds. This is a problem. 

"For those who live according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh, but those who live according to the Spirit set their minds on the things of the Spirit. For to set the mind on the flesh is death, but to set the mind on the Spirit is life and peace. For the mind that is set on the flesh is hostile to God, for it does not submit to God's law; indeed, it cannot. Those who are in the flesh cannot please God." Romans 8:5-8

When you pick up this book {Holding up the Bible} you should pray about it. Ask God to give you eyes to see, and a spirit to receive His word. Ask Him to give you the Holy Spirit to interpret and understand what His word is telling you. The word declares that God is willing to give wisdom and understanding to those who ask Him. 

"If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him." James 1:5

2 - The Care for this world. 

“Hear then the parable of the sower: When anyone hears the word of the kingdom and does not understand it, the evil one comes and snatches away what has been sown in his heart. This is what was sown along the path. As for what was sown on rocky ground, this is the one who hears the word and immediately receives it with joy, yet he has no root in himself but endures for a while, and when tribulation or persecution arises on account of the word, immediately he falls away. As for what was sown among thorns, this is the one who hears the word, but the cares of the world and the deceitfulness of riches choke the word, and it proves unfruitful. As for what was sown on good soil, this is the one who hears the word and understands it. He indeed bears fruit and yields, in one case a hundredfold, in another sixty, and in another thirty.” Matthew 13:18-23

Again, when you read God's word, you should pray to Him and ask for guidance and even time to do so. Set a routine. Get up an hour earlier. Go to bed an hour later. Skip that TV show. Miss that next newscast. Make it a priority to read God's word, and seek His guidance for your understanding, and never forget that God's word is absolute and just. Therefore, if it says something that offends you, or goes against what the world says, it is true. The world is wrong. It IS just that simple. 

3 - Offensive content  

To elaborate a bit more on the last topic, you may become offended at something you read in the word. Abortion is murder. Psalm 139:13-18, Exodus 21:22-25, Homosexuality is sin, Leviticus 18:22, Leviticus 20:13, Ezekiel 16:48-51, {Think America} Romans 1: 18-32. Jesus IS the only way to Heaven? John 14:6, Matthew 7:21–27, John 6:63, He promised that those who believe in Him will have Eternal Life John 3:14–15. He is the gate of the sheep John 10:7; The Bread of Life John 6:35; and the Resurrection John 11:25. 

It really is simple. If The Bible tells you it is a sin. It is a sin. It does not matter one iota what you may think about it. What man says about it. What even the courts say about it. It does not matter what world leaders, the news, or famous people say about it. If the world chooses to ignore the word of God, it doesn't change sin from being sin to being good or good into being a sin. Rather it heaps up the punishment that will eventually come. If you become offended at something you read, pray about it. Ask God why. Seriously look in the mirror. God is always right and just. His word is always right and just. 

4 - Compassion for others.

Wait. What? Yup. Having a false sense of compassion for others can stop you from reading God's word. Why? See above. I believe in God. I even believe in Jesus. However, my mother believes in Buddha and my best friend is gay and believes in a loving God where all are welcome and encouraged to just be themselves. There is nothing wrong with that in my eyes. Or you may have something in your past or know someone that you know the Bible will talk against. Well, I just do not believe that this or that is really a sin. I'm just going to live my life and let God sort it out in the end. That is simply judging the Bible based on what others have told you. 

In today's society, Jesus would have detractors on every side. Pretty much like He did then. Jesus does not measure compassion in a merely temporal, circumstantial way. His measure of compassion is eternal and transcendent. His goal, His mission, and His compassion are rooted in something deeper than a feeling. It is based on holiness and goodness. Absolute righteousness. Try reading it for yourself and ask God to put it in the proper context and help you to understand. It will change your life.

Book of Luke

We will be diving into the book of Luke starting next week. We will see how Luke has a unique perspective and his way of teaching us who Jesus really is. You may even recognize the beginning of Luke as something you heard as a child watching Charlie Brown Christmas. Join us for the next 24 weeks and let's read the book of Luke together. One chapter a week. That's it. That's all. Not too tough if you choose you really want to do it. Remember, pray. Ask God to show you what He wants you to see as we go through Luke together. You will better understand who Jesus really is by the end. Trust me on that one. 

Until next time. Be blessed, be a blessing, and Jesus IS Lord! 

2 Peter 1, Part 7

 Godliness

"For this very reason, make every effort to supplement your faith with virtue, and virtue with knowledge, and knowledge with self-control, and self-control with steadfastness, and steadfastness with godliness, and godliness with brotherly affection, and brotherly affection with love. For if these qualities are yours and are increasing, they keep you from being ineffective or unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ."

Welcome. We are currently going through 2 Peter 1. We are doing this in-depth study nearly word for word. If you have been with us you know we went through the greetings and the "For this very reason" or the reason we need to listen to what Peter is telling us here. Last time we talked about steadfastness. If you are following along it looks like this.

"For this very reason, make every effort to supplement your faith with virtue, and virtue with knowledge, and knowledge with self-control, and self-control with steadfastness,

We talked about the reason why, faith, virtue, knowledge, self-control, and standing firm. If you missed anything up to now you can go back in the archives and get caught up if you so choose. Today, we are going to talk about godliness.

What does that even mean? The world says this

Godliness = the quality of being devoutly religious; piety: "a man of great godliness"

What does the Bible say? It tells us there is a vast difference between being godly and worldly.

"Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the wicked, nor stands in the way of sinners, nor sits in the seat of scoffers, but his delight is in the law of the Lord, and on his law, he meditates day and night. He is like a tree planted by streams of water that yields its fruit in its season, and its leaf does not wither. In all that he does, he prospers." Psalm 1:1-3

What it is saying here is that you have choices to make. You can go along with the world, agree with the world and live the worldly way, or you can pick this up {Holding up the Bible} and read it. Live the way God tells you to. Look here.

"If anyone teaches a different doctrine and does not agree with the sound words of our Lord Jesus Christ and the teaching that accords with godliness, he is puffed up with conceit and understands nothing. He has an unhealthy craving for controversy and for quarrels about words, which produce envy, dissension, slander, evil suspicions, and constant friction among people who are depraved in their minds and deprived of the truth, imagining that godliness is a means of gain. But godliness with contentment is great gain, " 1 Timothy 6:3-6

This is why it is so very important that you never take what anyone, even me, or your local Pastor, says as absolute truth and facts. Look it up yourself. Read this {Holding up the Bible} If I or anyone else tell you something that is not in here, or it does not go along with what this says, it is a lie.

Not to pick on anyone here but some examples? Don't eat meat on Friday. Not here. Praying to this or that Saint? Not here. Worshiping Mary? Not here. Killing non-believers? Not here. Keeping women down as lesser people? Not here. Racism? Not here. Any other way to God or heaven without Jesus? Most definitely NOT here. Accepting sin and living to let live? Not here. Not doing anything following your conversion? Not here.

Simply put, if you read the Bible, pray, and spend time with God, you will know the truth when you hear it. You will be able to test the spirits.

"Beloved, do not believe every spirit but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, for many false prophets have gone out into the world. By this, you know the Spirit of God: every spirit that confesses that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh is from God, and every spirit that does not confess Jesus is not from God. This is the spirit of the antichrist, which you heard was coming and now is in the world already."

We have entire churches today, TV Ministries, local churches, and secular outlets, all agreeing that sin is good and good is sin. They talk with beautiful words that are designed to make you "feel" that they are right and compassionate, and good. Do not fall for the lies.

"Little children, you are from God and have overcome them, for he who is in you is greater than he who is in the world. They are from the world; therefore they speak from the world, and the world listens to them. We are from God. Whoever knows God listens to us; whoever is not from God does not listen to us. By this, we know the Spirit of truth and the spirit of error." 1 John 4:1-6

Please do not misunderstand. Being "godly" or living a life of godliness is NOT being holier than thou. It is not attempting to force your will or beliefs on others. This is not what it is about. It is about your one-on-one relationship with God. It is about a relationship with your daddy. As a matter of fact, we are warned against even dealing with people like that.

"Having the appearance of godliness, but denying its power. Avoid such people." 2 Timothy 3:5

Before you can be concerned with anyone else, you have to get right yourself. Pray, read, and spend time with God.

"I appeal to you, therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship." Romans 12:1

Does this mean we should not share the gospel? Of course not. We should share the gospel as often as God gives us the opportunity. That is our obligation, at least one of our obligation, as a child of God. However, if you are not prepared? I would not recommend it. Look here.

"Indeed, all who desire to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted," 2 Timothy 3:12

That does not say "may." That does not say "some." Read that again.

"Indeed, all who desire to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted," 2 Timothy 3:12

If you are not prepared and well equipt, you may fall for lies and attacks and become unfruitful for the kingdom of God. You would be like those that Jesus calls "rocky grounds," or those amongst the thorns.

"As for what was sown on rocky ground, this is the one who hears the word and immediately receives it with joy, yet he has no root in himself but endures for a while, and when tribulation or persecution arises on account of the word, immediately he falls away. As for what was sown among thorns, this is the one who hears the word, but the cares of the world and the deceitfulness of riches choke the word, and it proves unfruitful." Matthew 13:20-22

Being godly, or living in godliness, is all about you and your relationship with God. Does this mean you are perfect? No. Of course not. Does it mean you are better than anyone else? No. Of course not. Does it mean you are holier than others? No. It means you got yourself right with God. You spend time in preparation and you spend time with God. You learn and grow and try to keep yourself unstained from the world. Then you can follow through with the next thing Peter talks about here.

"For this very reason, make every effort to supplement your faith with virtue, and virtue with knowledge, and knowledge with self-control, and self-control with steadfastness, and steadfastness with godliness, and godliness with brotherly affection,"

Join us next time when we dive into "brotherly affection." Do you know Jesus as your Savior? Have you been adopted into the Family of God? If not, say this Prayer. Right now. Wherever you may be. Say it in your own words, and do not doubt in your heart. God will hear you. He will send the Spirit of Life to you. Let us Pray.

"Oh heavenly Father, Lord God. I am a sinner. I know this. I know there is nothing I can do to change that. But I know you can. I accept Jesus's sacrifice for me. I believed He rose from the dead. I repent my sins. Please send the Spirit of Adoption into my life. Help me to get to know the real you. Save me. Please. In the name of Jesus, Amen!"

That's it. It really is that simple. Now go tell someone what you have just done. "That if you shall confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in your heart that God hath raised him from the dead, You shall be saved." Romans 10:9. You need to find a Church that God leads you to and be Baptized the way Jesus said to be. You are now a Child of God. A New Creature. You "have put off the old man with his deeds, and have put on the new man, which is renewed in knowledge after the image of him that created him."Colossians 3:10

If you want to tell me, comment, questions, give testimonials, or just say "Hi," the Email is opntalk@gmail.com

The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Ghost be with you all. Amen. 2 Corinthians 13

Until Next time, be blessed, be a blessing, and Jesus is Lord.

Book of Acts, Chapter 28

 Chapter 28

Paul on Malta

1 After we were brought safely through, we then learned that the island was called Malta. 2 The native people showed us unusual kindness, for they kindled a fire and welcomed us all, because it had begun to rain and was cold. 3 When Paul had gathered a bundle of sticks and put them on the fire, a viper came out because of the heat and fastened on his hand. 4 When the native people saw the creature hanging from his hand, they said to one another, “No doubt this man is a murderer. Though he has escaped from the sea, Justice has not allowed him to live.” 5 He, however, shook off the creature into the fire and suffered no harm. 6 They were waiting for him to swell up or suddenly fall down dead. But when they had waited a long time and saw no misfortune come to him, they changed their minds and said that he was a god.

7 Now in the neighborhood of that place were lands belonging to the chief man of the island, named Publius, who received us and entertained us hospitably for three days. 8 It happened that the father of Publius lay sick with fever and dysentery. And Paul visited him and prayed, and putting his hands on him, healed him. 9 And when this had taken place, the rest of the people on the island who had diseases also came and were cured. 10 They also honored us greatly, and when we were about to sail, they put on board whatever we needed.

Paul Arrives at Rome

11 After three months we set sail in a ship that had wintered in the island, a ship of Alexandria, with the twin gods as a figurehead. 12 Putting in at Syracuse, we stayed there for three days. 13 And from there we made a circuit and arrived at Rhegium. And after one day a south wind sprang up, and on the second day we came to Puteoli. 14 There we found brothers and were invited to stay with them for seven days. And so we came to Rome. 15 And the brothers there, when they heard about us, came as far as the Forum of Appius and Three Taverns to meet us. On seeing them, Paul thanked God and took courage. 16 And when we came into Rome, Paul was allowed to stay by himself, with the soldier who guarded him.

Paul in Rome

17 After three days he called together the local leaders of the Jews, and when they had gathered, he said to them, “Brothers, though I had done nothing against our people or the customs of our fathers, yet I was delivered as a prisoner from Jerusalem into the hands of the Romans. 18 When they had examined me, they wished to set me at liberty, because there was no reason for the death penalty in my case. 19 But because the Jews objected, I was compelled to appeal to Caesar—though I had no charge to bring against my nation. 20 For this reason, therefore, I have asked to see you and speak with you, since it is because of the hope of Israel that I am wearing this chain.” 21 And they said to him, “We have received no letters from Judea about you, and none of the brothers coming here has reported or spoken any evil about you. 22 But we desire to hear from you what your views are, for with regard to this sect we know that everywhere it is spoken against.”

23 When they had appointed a day for him, they came to him at his lodging in greater numbers. From morning till evening he expounded to them, testifying to the kingdom of God and trying to convince them about Jesus both from the Law of Moses and from the Prophets. 24 And some were convinced by what he said, but others disbelieved. 25 And disagreeing among themselves, they departed after Paul had made one statement: “The Holy Spirit was right in saying to your fathers through Isaiah the prophet:

26 “‘Go to this people, and say,

“You will indeed hear but never understand,

    and you will indeed see but never perceive.”

27 For this people's heart has grown dull,

    and with their ears they can barely hear,

    and their eyes they have closed;

lest they should see with their eyes

    and hear with their ears

and understand with their heart

    and turn, and I would heal them.’

28 Therefore let it be known to you that this salvation of God has been sent to the Gentiles; they will listen.”

30 He lived there two whole years at his own expense and welcomed all who came to him, 31 proclaiming the kingdom of God and teaching about the Lord Jesus Christ with all boldness and without hindrance.