Chat With Peter, The Forgotten Laws?

Coming up here at T.A.G.

Hey folks,

Happy New year to ya. Hope you all had a good and safe celebration of the end of last, and the beginning of the new Year. Ah, Yes, the New Year. New beginning. Clean Slate. A chance to begin anew. A time when we make New Year Resolutions. Promises to improve our lives and to make things better for ourselves and our families.

You are going to hear all kinds of things. You may even say some of them yourself. "I promise to lose weight." "Eat less, or healthier." "I promise to quit Smoking, Drinking, and Swearing." Yes, I know there is a joke there somewhere. "Work less?" "Spend more time with the Family?" "Go to Church more?" "Be a better person?" ETC.

Well, why not start off the year, learning what the Law of God really is. Seriously. Do you know the forgotten Laws of God? Does your Church teach them? I'm not talking about knowing where to find them. Can you? I'm not talking about how to say them in order. Can you? Do you REALLY know what they are? Do you, or our Nation, violate them daily? Is it really that big a deal to know them, and to follow them?

{Proverbs:1-3}

"My son, keep my words, and lay up my commandments with thee. Keep my commandments, and live; and my law as the apple of thine eye. Bind them upon thy fingers, write them upon the table of thine heart."

Does that sound like just knowing how to say them in order? What about this..

{Proverbs 3:1-3}

"My son, forget not my law; but let thine heart keep my commandments: For length of days, and long life, and peace, shall they add to thee. Let not mercy and truth forsake thee: bind them about thy neck; write them upon the table of thine heart:"

Teaching our Children the list, The Ten Commandments, in Sunday school , is not a bad thing. Understanding that Commandment 6 says Thou shall not Kill, is a good thing. Knowing that Commandment 5 is the first with Promise, is a good thing. However,,,

{Deuteronomy 6:4-9}

"The Lord our God is one Lord: And thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thine heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy might. And these words, which I command thee this day, shall be in thine heart: And thou shalt teach them diligently unto thy children, and shalt talk of them when thou sittest in thine house, and when thou walkest by the way, and when thou liest down, and when thou risest up. And thou shalt bind them for a sign upon thine hand, and they shall be as frontlets between thine eyes. And thou shalt write them upon the posts of thy house, and on thy gates."

Understanding the Ten Commandment, is more than just counting. 1,2,3,4,5,,6,7,8,9,10. " For length of days, and long life, and peace, shall they add to thee." Did you know that? God even gives us a promise. Follow My Law, and live.

It's not just memorizing them. It's not just doing one Study on them. God tells us this..

{Proverbs 6:20-23}

"My son, keep thy father's commandment, and forsake not the law of thy mother: Bind them continually upon thine heart, and tie them about thy neck. When thou goest, it shall lead thee; when thou sleepest, it shall keep thee; and when thou awakest, it shall talk with thee. For the commandment is a lamp; and the law is light; and reproofs of instruction are the way of life: "

The Ten Commandments were not given to Man to make Man's life more difficult. To refrain Man from the things he loves.

{1 John 5:3}

"For this is the love of God, that we keep his commandments: and his commandments are not grievous."

When asked what we must do to be Saved, what did Jesus tell us?

{Matthew 19:16-21}

"And, behold, one came and said unto him, Good Master, what good thing shall I do, that I may have eternal life?

And he said unto him, Why callest thou me good? there is none good but one, that is, God: but if thou wilt enter into life, keep the commandments. He saith unto him, Which? Jesus said, Thou shalt do no murder, Thou shalt not commit adultery, Thou shalt not steal, Thou shalt not bear false witness, Honour thy father and thy mother: and, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.

The young man saith unto him, All these things have I kept from my youth up: what lack I yet? Jesus said unto him, If thou wilt be perfect, go and sell that thou hast, and give to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come and follow me."

Jesus put the Law of God, ahead of even Himself. He told us plainly..

{Matthew 5:17-20}

"Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfil. For verily I say unto you, Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law, till all be fulfilled.

Whosoever therefore shall break one of these least commandments, and shall teach men so, he shall be called the least in the kingdom of heaven: but whosoever shall do and teach them, the same shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven.

For I say unto you, That except your righteousness shall exceed the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees, ye shall in no case enter into the kingdom of heaven."

IF you love Jesus, you MUST follow the Ten Commandments.

{John 14:15-16}

"If ye love me, keep my commandments. And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you for ever;"

The Ten Commandments were given to Man to make Man's life more easy. To keep him from the snares of the devil. Understanding, not only what they are, but what they mean, is crucial to every Child of God's growth and Well Being. If we keep them?

{John 15:10}

"If ye keep my commandments, ye shall abide in my love; even as I have kept my Father's commandments, and abide in his love."

So you see how important it is to not only know what they are, but to KNOW what they are. It is really hard to follow something if you have no idea what it is you are suppose to follow. So for the next five Weeks, we will go into an in depth Study of these, the Forgotten Laws of God, The Ten Commandments. This will be another new Tradition here at T.A.G. that we will be doing every New Year.

I remember a long time ago, when I was first Saved and one came to me asking me about the Ten Commandments. I remember thinking "Everyone knows them." Well, it was in that moment that I learned, not everyone does. To the Lost, the simple things of God, are not so simple. To the Religious, the simple things of God, are not always so simple. To the Child of God, sometimes it is in that very simplicity, that we get lost.

Won't you join us for the next five Weeks, and get back to the basics. Just like with anything else, if you do not have a solid Foundation, you can, and will, be moved. The Law of God is alive and well. The Law of God, is to not only be learned, but followed. It has not changed. It will not be done away with. Whatever, and however, Man, attempts to discard it, does not mean it is not still there, and that God will not hold you blameless for ignoring it.

May the comfort of the Holy Ghost, peace of our Lord Jesus, be with you all. May God bless and be with you, always.

Peter

Proverbs 9

1 Wisdom hath builded her house, she hath hewn out her seven pillars:

2 She hath killed her beasts; she hath mingled her wine; she hath also furnished her table.

3 She hath sent forth her maidens: she crieth upon the highest places of the city,

4 Whoso is simple, let him turn in hither: as for him that wanteth understanding, she saith to him,

5 Come, eat of my bread, and drink of the wine which I have mingled.

6 Forsake the foolish, and live; and go in the way of understanding.

7 He that reproveth a scorner getteth to himself shame: and he that rebuketh a wicked man getteth himself a blot.

8 Reprove not a scorner, lest he hate thee: rebuke a wise man, and he will love thee.

9 Give instruction to a wise man, and he will be yet wiser: teach a just man, and he will increase in learning.

10 The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom: and the knowledge of the holy is understanding.

11 For by me thy days shall be multiplied, and the years of thy life shall be increased.

12 If thou be wise, thou shalt be wise for thyself: but if thou scornest, thou alone shalt bear it.

13 A foolish woman is clamorous: she is simple, and knoweth nothing.

14 For she sitteth at the door of her house, on a seat in the high places of the city,

15 To call passengers who go right on their ways:

16 Whoso is simple, let him turn in hither: and as for him that wanteth understanding, she saith to him,

17 Stolen waters are sweet, and bread eaten in secret is pleasant.

18 But he knoweth not that the dead are there; and that her guests are in the depths of hell.

God, Government, Man

The Bible tells us we must Obey the Government.

How can you, a "Christian," be so disobedient to our President and Government? You claim you love the Country. You claim you love God. Well, this is America. In this Country, it is Legal for a Woman to chose. It is the Law. It is Legal for Gays to Marry in nearly all States. It is the Law. It is not Legal for you to "Bible Thump" anyone in public. It is the Law. Keep that to yourself. We have a "Wall of Separation" that protects intelligent and caring people, from narrow minded, hate filled people, like you. Besides, since you love the Bible so much, then follow this... 

{Romans 13:1-7} (New Living Translation)

"Obey the government, for God is the one who put it there. All governments have been placed in power by God. So those who refuse to obey the laws of the land are refusing to obey God, and punishment will follow.

For the authorities do not frighten people who are doing right, but they frighten those who do wrong. So do what they say, and you will get along well. The authorities are sent by God to help you. But if you are doing something wrong, of course you should be afraid, for you will be punished. The authorities are established by God for that very purpose, to punish those who do wrong. So you must obey the government for two reasons: to keep from being punished and to keep a clear conscience.

Pay your taxes, too, for these same reasons. For government workers need to be paid so they can keep on doing the work God intended them to do. Give to everyone what you owe them: Pay your taxes and import duties, and give respect and honor to all to whom it is due."

You make some good points. Although, I prefer to use the King James Version, which reads as follows...

{Romans 13:1-7} {King James Version}

"Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers. For there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God. Whosoever therefore resisteth the power, resisteth the ordinance of God: and they that resist shall receive to themselves damnation.

For rulers are not a terror to good works, but to the evil. Wilt thou then not be afraid of the power? do that which is good, and thou shalt have praise of the same: For he is the minister of God to thee for good. But if thou do that which is evil, be afraid; for he beareth not the sword in vain: for he is the minister of God, a revenger to execute wrath upon him that doeth evil. Wherefore ye must needs be subject, not only for wrath, but also for conscience sake.

For for this cause pay ye tribute also: for they are God's ministers, attending continually upon this very thing. Render therefore to all their dues: tribute to whom tribute is due; custom to whom custom; fear to whom fear; honour to whom honour."

To me, this sounds a lot like he is talking about the Church. That set aside, there are many passages that talk about following the Law of the Land as well as the Laws of God. Like this one by Peter..

{1 Peter 2:13-17}

"Submit yourselves to every ordinance of man for the Lord's sake: whether it be to the king, as supreme; Or unto governors, as unto them that are sent by him for the punishment of evildoers, and for the praise of them that do well.

For so is the will of God, that with well doing ye may put to silence the ignorance of foolish men: As free, and not using your liberty for a cloke of maliciousness, but as the servants of God. Honour all men. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honour the king."

Jesus Himself told us similar..

{Matthew 22:17-22 }

"Tell us, then, what you think. Is it lawful to pay taxes to Caesar, or not? But Jesus, aware of their malice, said, Why put me to the test, you hypocrites? Show me the coin for the tax. And they brought him a denarius. And Jesus said to them, Whose likeness and inscription is this? They said, Caesar's. Then he said to them, Therefore render to Caesar the things that are Caesar's, and to God the things that are God's.”

However, here in lays the problem of your argument. What happens when Man says different than God? Who comes first? Who do you follow? The Creature or the Creator? When Man contradicts God, which do you think, you should Follow?

I think that same Peter, who wrote we need to submit to both Man and God, also answered this question. Following Jesus's death and Resurrection, Peter and the other Disciples were obeying Jesus's Command to “Go into all the world and proclaim the gospel to the whole creation." {Mark 16:15} They were proclaiming "And there is salvation in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved.”{Acts 4:12} They were arrested and threatened with beatings and Prison if they continued to speak Jesus's Name.

Now you really need to get this. They had no problem with them talking about God. They had no problem talking about the Law, or the Torah, the Bible. They had no problem with them doing God's Work. The only thing that they did have a problem with, was the Name Jesus. The only problem with that is this. Jesus IS the only way to Salvation. Without Him, you have NOTHING.

So they refused to listen to this. They were arrested again..

{Acts 5:27-29}

"And when they had brought them, they set them before the council: and the high priest asked them, Saying, Did not we straightly command you that ye should not teach in this name? and, behold, ye have filled Jerusalem with your doctrine, and intend to bring this man's blood upon us.

Then Peter and the other apostles answered and said, We ought to obey God rather than men."

You see, Peter understood that we need to do both, follow the Law of the Land, and the Laws of God. He understood, and was there, when Jesus told us to do both. However, when what Man says goes against what God says, it is clear, we are to follow God.

Man says "It's OK to slaughter your unborn child. We will call it a choice. A Woman's Right. After all, it is her body." God says,

{Exodus 20:13}

"Thou Shalt not commit murder."

{Exodus 21:22-25}

"If men strive, and hurt a woman with child, so that her fruit depart from her, and yet no mischief follow: he shall be surely punished, according as the woman's husband will lay upon him; and he shall pay as the judges determine. And if any mischief follow, then thou shalt give life for life, Eye for eye, tooth for tooth, hand for hand, foot for foot, Burning for burning, wound for wound, stripe for stripe."

Yes, this is talking about Abortion.

{1 Corinthians 6:19}

"What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own?"

{1 Corinthians 7:4}

"The wife hath not power of her own body, but the husband: and likewise also the husband hath not power of his own body, but the wife."

Man says "It's OK to be Gay. Gays should have the 'Right' to Marry and receive benefits for doing such." God says?

{Leviticus 18:22}

"Thou shalt not lie with mankind, as with womankind: it is abomination."

{Ezekiel 16:49-51}

"Behold, this was the iniquity of thy sister Sodom, pride, fulness of bread, and abundance of idleness was in her and in her daughters, neither did she strengthen the hand of the poor and needy. And they were haughty, and committed abomination before me: therefore I took them away as I saw good. Neither hath Samaria committed half of thy sins; but thou hast multiplied thine abominations more than they, and hast justified thy sisters in all thine abominations which thou hast done."

Substitute America, for Samaria here.

By the States deciding the way they have, they not only condoned Homosexuality, but rather justify it. They said it's now OK. And they also said, anyone who speaks out against it, is committing Sin. America, a Country Founded on the Gospel, a Country Founded on Freedom to Worship the God of the Bible, A Country who formed it's Laws after the Laws of God, has made Sin, Good, and Good, Sin. When reading the following, I want you to think about America. Think about all those Founding Documents that clearly State God, love of God, Honor of God, Thanks being to God, and think about how far we have gotten away from God. The Word declares,

{Romans 1:18-32}

"For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who hold the truth in unrighteousness; Because that which may be known of God is manifest in them; for God hath shewed it unto them. For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse: Because that, when they knew God, they glorified him not as God, neither were thankful; but became vain in their imaginations, and their foolish heart was darkened. Professing themselves to be wise, they became fools, And changed the glory of the uncorruptible God into an image made like to corruptible man, and to birds, and fourfooted beasts, and creeping things. Wherefore God also gave them up to uncleanness through the lusts of their own hearts, to dishonour their own bodies between themselves: Who changed the truth of God into a lie, and worshipped and served the creature more than the Creator, who is blessed for ever. Amen.

For this cause God gave them up unto vile affections: for even their women did change the natural use into that which is against nature: And likewise also the men, leaving the natural use of the woman, burned in their lust one toward another; men with men working that which is unseemly, and receiving in themselves that recompence of their error which was meet. And even as they did not like to retain God in their knowledge, God gave them over to a reprobate mind, to do those things which are not convenient; Being filled with all unrighteousness, fornication, wickedness, covetousness, maliciousness; full of envy, murder, debate, deceit, malignity; whisperers, Backbiters, haters of God, despiteful, proud, boasters, inventors of evil things, disobedient to parents, Without understanding, covenantbreakers, without natural affection, implacable, unmerciful: Who knowing the judgment of God, that they which commit such things are worthy of death, not only do the same, but have pleasure in them that do them."

Are we to obey the Government? Are we to obey the Laws of the Land? Of course we are. However, when the Government, and the Laws of the Land start to oppose the Laws and the Commands of God, then it is crystal clear, God comes first. No matter what. Sin is still Sin. Good is still Good. Right and Wrong have not changed. It does not matter what Man says. There is no compromising God. There is no compassion in justifying Sin. Where is the compassion in allowing someone to Sin their way to Hell?

Will all accept what you say? No. Will all hear the Truth and rejoice? Nope. Will all see what is going on in this Country right in front of their face? No. It is not your Job to convince them. Simply tell the Truth, and even more importantly, live your Life the way you should. You are not accountable for their acceptance. They are accountable for their own actions. Always remember, God comes first..

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 thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt 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, or comment, question, give testimonials, or just say "Hi," the Email is opntalk@gmail.com

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

Merry Christmas

The real reason for the season. 

Matthew 1:

18 Now the birth of Jesus Christ was on this wise: When as his mother Mary was espoused to Joseph, before they came together, she was found with child of the Holy Ghost.

19 Then Joseph her husband, being a just man, and not willing to make her a public example, was minded to put her away privily.

20 But while he thought on these things, behold, the angel of the Lord appeared unto him in a dream, saying, Joseph, thou son of David, fear not to take unto thee Mary thy wife: for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Ghost.

21 And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name Jesus: for he shall save his people from their sins.

22 Now all this was done, that it might be fulfilled which was spoken of the Lord by the prophet, saying,

23 Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call his name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us.

24 Then Joseph being raised from sleep did as the angel of the Lord had bidden him, and took unto him his wife:

25 And knew her not till she had brought forth her firstborn son: and he called his name Jesus.


Luke 2:

1 And it came to pass in those days, that there went out a decree from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be taxed.

2 (And this taxing was first made when Cyrenius was governor of Syria.)

3 And all went to be taxed, every one into his own city.

4 And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judaea, unto the city of David, which is called Bethlehem; (because he was of the house and lineage of David:)

5 To be taxed with Mary his espoused wife, being great with child.

6 And so it was, that, while they were there, the days were accomplished that she should be delivered.

7 And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn.

8 And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night.

9 And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid.

10 And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.

11 For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.

12 And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, 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, good will toward men.

May you all have a very Merry Christmas, and always remember, there is nothing wrong with lights on the Tree, nor Presents under it, as long as you never forget, the reason for the season is the Gift God gave to all mankind. Merry Christmas and a very Happy and Healthy New Year. Be Blessed, be a Blessing, and Jesus IS Lord.

Peter

Proverbs 8

1 Doth not wisdom cry? and understanding put forth her voice?

2 She standeth in the top of high places, by the way in the places of the paths.

3 She crieth at the gates, at the entry of the city, at the coming in at the doors.

4 Unto you, O men, I call; and my voice is to the sons of man.

5 O ye simple, understand wisdom: and, ye fools, be ye of an understanding heart.

6 Hear; for I will speak of excellent things; and the opening of my lips shall be right things.

7 For my mouth shall speak truth; and wickedness is an abomination to my lips.

8 All the words of my mouth are in righteousness; there is nothing froward or perverse in them.

9 They are all plain to him that understandeth, and right to them that find knowledge.

10 Receive my instruction, and not silver; and knowledge rather than choice gold.

11 For wisdom is better than rubies; and all the things that may be desired are not to be compared to it.

12 I wisdom dwell with prudence, and find out knowledge of witty inventions.

13 The fear of the Lord is to hate evil: pride, and arrogancy, and the evil way, and the froward mouth, do I hate.

14 Counsel is mine, and sound wisdom: I am understanding; I have strength.

15 By me kings reign, and princes decree justice.

16 By me princes rule, and nobles, even all the judges of the earth.

17 I love them that love me; and those that seek me early shall find me.

18 Riches and honour are with me; yea, durable riches and righteousness.

19 My fruit is better than gold, yea, than fine gold; and my revenue than choice silver.

20 I lead in the way of righteousness, in the midst of the paths of judgment:

21 That I may cause those that love me to inherit substance; and I will fill their treasures.

22 The Lord possessed me in the beginning of his way, before his works of old.

23 I was set up from everlasting, from the beginning, or ever the earth was.

24 When there were no depths, I was brought forth; when there were no fountains abounding with water.

25 Before the mountains were settled, before the hills was I brought forth:

26 While as yet he had not made the earth, nor the fields, nor the highest part of the dust of the world.

27 When he prepared the heavens, I was there: when he set a compass upon the face of the depth:

28 When he established the clouds above: when he strengthened the fountains of the deep:

29 When he gave to the sea his decree, that the waters should not pass his commandment: when he appointed the foundations of the earth:

30 Then I was by him, as one brought up with him: and I was daily his delight, rejoicing always before him;

31 Rejoicing in the habitable part of his earth; and my delights were with the sons of men.

32 Now therefore hearken unto me, O ye children: for blessed are they that keep my ways.

33 Hear instruction, and be wise, and refuse it not.

34 Blessed is the man that heareth me, watching daily at my gates, waiting at the posts of my doors.

35 For whoso findeth me findeth life, and shall obtain favour of the Lord.

36 But he that sinneth against me wrongeth his own soul: all they that hate me love death.

The Gift Series, Part 3

Always Be Prepared

Never be ashamed.

Think about it. You were once a wretch. A Sinner. Walking in the flesh. Born to die. You were once like the worse Sinning, filthy, repulsive, poor excuse for a Human Being, that is walking the Earth today. Now? Now you have accepted The Gift. Now, you are a new creature. You have been adopted into the Family of God.

{Romans 8:15-17}

"For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father. The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God. And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified together." 

You 

{Colossians 3:10}

"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." 

How did you do this? You simply accepted The Gift. The Gift is Jesus. Rather His sacrifice for you. His blood for your blood. His suffering of the punishment of Sin, the end result of which is death, for your suffering. His death, yet rather Resurrection, as payment for you. He died so that you may have Eternal Life. Not just Eternal Life, but to improve your life today. 

{John 10:10,11}

"I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly. I am the good shepherd: the good shepherd giveth his life for the sheep." 

Remember what Jesus said to Peter? Peter was bragging that they left all to follow Him. Then asked Jesus what they receive for doing so. What did He tell Peter? 

{Mark 10:29,30}

"Verily I say unto you, There is no man that hath left house, or brethren, or sisters, or father, or mother, or wife, or children, or lands, for my sake, and the gospel's, But he shall receive an hundredfold now in this time, houses, and brethren, and sisters, and mothers, and children, and lands, with persecutions; and in the world to come eternal life." 

This is The Gift. This is the Truth. Not something to be rejoiced over, played with, and left in the corner to be forgotten. THIS is the ultimate Gift. You have become a Child of God. Jesus came and suffered torture, abuse, and death, for YOU. All you did, was accept the Gift. So now what? Well, Peter tells us, all Saved, all Children of God, that we must all be prepared to share this Gift.

{1 Peter 3:15}

"but in your hearts honor Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect,"

Remember what Jesus told us?

{Matthew 10:32-33}

"Whosoever therefore shall confess me before men, him will I confess also before my Father which is in heaven. But whosoever shall deny me before men, him will I also deny before my Father which is in heaven."

Let's look at this a bit closer.

"Honor Christ the Lord as Holy."

First, as a new Believer, you must learn who the Christ is. Get filled up with the Bread of Life, The Word. Get filled up with the Waters for the Eternal Spring. The Word. Spend time getting prepared in knowledge and wisdom. Grow in Christ. Gain knowledge of the Truth, so that your life can become Blessed and you may become a Blessing to others. Become Obedient to Him. His Will and His Way.

"Always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you."

Someone comes to you and says something to the effect of "You know, I noticed you seem to worry about little to nothing. I noticed that you seem to always look for the silver lining in all things. What's up with that?" Or, they come to you and ask, "What makes you so sure your way is better than any other. Seriously. There are a lot of Religions out there. What makes you think you are right?"

Your answer? What do you say? How do you respond? Do you say, "It's just something I believe."? Do you say, "I have faith that Jesus is Lord, but if you believe something else, cool."? Or do you say nothing? What do you say? Why not tell the truth? Say,,,,

{John 3:16-18} 

"For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved.

He that believeth on him is not condemned: but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God."

"Yeah, yeah, yeah. The Muslims think they are right. The Buddhists think they are enlightened. The Jews do not believe in Jesus. So what makes you right and them wrong?"

{John 14:6-7}

"Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me. If ye had known me, ye should have known my Father also: and from henceforth ye know him, and have seen him."

"So you are saying without Jesus, they are all wrong. And you are right?" The answer, simply put, is YES. You may even want to share with them this...

{John 10:1-10}

"Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that entereth not by the door into the sheepfold, but climbeth up some other way, the same is a thief and a robber. But he that entereth in by the door is the shepherd of the sheep. To him the porter openeth; and the sheep hear his voice: and he calleth his own sheep by name, and leadeth them out. And when he putteth forth his own sheep, he goeth before them, and the sheep follow him: for they know his voice. And a stranger will they not follow, but will flee from him: for they know not the voice of strangers.

This parable spake Jesus unto them: but they understood not what things they were which he spake unto them. Then said Jesus unto them again, Verily, verily, I say unto you, I am the door of the sheep. All that ever came before me are thieves and robbers: but the sheep did not hear them.

I am the door: by me if any man enter in, he shall be saved, and shall go in and out, and find pasture. The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly."

The simple answer is YES. Without the key, you by no other means enter the Kingdom of God. Will this offend people? Yup. However, just because one may become offended at the Truth, doesn't change the Truth. Jesus came, suffered, and died for you, and you, are worried about offending someone with The Truth?

{Hebrews 10:22-24}

"Let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience, and our bodies washed with pure water. Let us hold fast the profession of our faith without wavering; (for he is faithful that promised;) And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works:"

Always be prepared to share the simple Truth. It's not that difficult. You do not have to have a PhD, or have spent your life in a Monastery. All you have to tell them is about what Jesus did for them. For us all. They take it as close mindedness, and exclusive to only a handful of people. They see it as some kind of exclusive club that keeps everyone that does not look like, or think like them out. The ignorant sees Faith in God, through Jesus the Christ, as equal to man-made Traditions called Religion. It's not. It's not exclusive. It's inclusive. It's not Religion, it's Salvation.

{Romans 10:8-15}

"But what saith it? The word is nigh thee, even in thy mouth, and in thy heart: that is, the word of faith, which we preach; That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved.

For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation. For the scripture saith, Whosoever believeth on him shall not be ashamed. For there is no difference between the Jew and the Greek: for the same Lord over all is rich unto all that call upon him. For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.

How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed? and how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard? and how shall they hear without a preacher? And how shall they preach, except they be sent? as it is written, How beautiful are the feet of them that preach the gospel of peace, and bring glad tidings of good things!"

"For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved." Not, as long as you follow this or that, man-made Doctrine. These or those Tenets. Dress this or that way. Be born into this or that Tradition. "For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved."

"Yet do it with gentleness and respect."

As a Child of God, you are also a Sower of the Seed. God calls on us to share The Gift and share it freely. Peter said to the Beggar "Silver and gold have I none; but such as I have give I thee:" {Acts 3:6}

Timothy tells us,,,

{2 Timothy 4:2}

"Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine."

In his letter to the the new Children of God in Colossae, Paul said this.

{Colossians 4:5}

"Walk in wisdom toward them that are without, redeeming the time. Let your speech be always with grace, seasoned with salt, that ye may know how ye ought to answer every man."

Be prepared "instant." In other words, KNOW the Truth. If someone came to me and asked me to show them how to build a Rocket, I would have to get back with them on this. I'm not a Rocket Scientist. I have no idea. I would have to read and study up on it. If someone came to me and ask my name? Peter. No thought. No hesitation. No worries. "What is your name?" Peter. "How can I be Saved?" Jesus.

This is why it is so important that you learn the Truth. Spend time with God. Allow the Spirit to work in you. So in an instant, once some one comes to you, and they will, and asks you something like, "So Jesus is the only way?" Yup. "Jesus saith, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me."

"Reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine." "Yet do it with gentleness and respect." "Let your speech be always with grace, seasoned with salt, that ye may know how ye ought to answer every man." Does this sound like a get in your face, threaten Hell and Fire and Brimstone, message? Nope. Simply tell the Truth, and if they accept it, they shall be Saved. If not, move on. As a Child of God, you are His Disciple. Just like the eleven that Jesus appeared to after His Resurrection. Remember, they went back to their lives as they were, before Jesus. Jesus was upset with them over this.

{Mark 16:14-16}

"Afterward he appeared unto the eleven as they sat at meat, and upbraided them with their unbelief and hardness of heart, because they believed not them which had seen him after he was risen. And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature.

He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned."

The truth is simple. The Gift is Jesus. The Gift is Salvation. There is nothing you can do to enter Heaven of yourself, or by Traditions of Men. By you accepting that Gift, you become a Child of God. There is no other way. God wants you to always be prepared to share the Truth with anyone that asks.

Have you received the Gift? Are you prepared to share it? 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 thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt 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.

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

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

Proverbs 7

1 My son, keep my words, and lay up my commandments with thee.

2 Keep my commandments, and live; and my law as the apple of thine eye.

3 Bind them upon thy fingers, write them upon the table of thine heart.

4 Say unto wisdom, Thou art my sister; and call understanding thy kinswoman:

5 That they may keep thee from the strange woman, from the stranger which flattereth with her words.

6 For at the window of my house I looked through my casement,

7 And beheld among the simple ones, I discerned among the youths, a young man void of understanding,

8 Passing through the street near her corner; and he went the way to her house,

9 In the twilight, in the evening, in the black and dark night:

10 And, behold, there met him a woman with the attire of an harlot, and subtil of heart.

11 (She is loud and stubborn; her feet abide not in her house:

12 Now is she without, now in the streets, and lieth in wait at every corner.)

13 So she caught him, and kissed him, and with an impudent face said unto him,

14 I have peace offerings with me; this day have I payed my vows.

15 Therefore came I forth to meet thee, diligently to seek thy face, and I have found thee.

16 I have decked my bed with coverings of tapestry, with carved works, with fine linen of Egypt.

17 I have perfumed my bed with myrrh, aloes, and cinnamon.

18 Come, let us take our fill of love until the morning: let us solace ourselves with loves.

19 For the goodman is not at home, he is gone a long journey:

20 He hath taken a bag of money with him, and will come home at the day appointed.

21 With her much fair speech she caused him to yield, with the flattering of her lips she forced him.

22 He goeth after her straightway, as an ox goeth to the slaughter, or as a fool to the correction of the stocks;

23 Till a dart strike through his liver; as a bird hasteth to the snare, and knoweth not that it is for his life.

24 Hearken unto me now therefore, O ye children, and attend to the words of my mouth.

25 Let not thine heart decline to her ways, go not astray in her paths.

26 For she hath cast down many wounded: yea, many strong men have been slain by her.

27 Her house is the way to hell, going down to the chambers of death.