SettledInHeaven.org

The Meaning Of Our Life

2012-03-20T05:53:00.003-07:00

The Meaning Of Our Life

2012-03-20T05:53:00.001-07:00

God Of The Ages

2012-03-17T04:45:00.001-07:00

Christian Love

2012-03-12T15:52:00.001-07:00

The Sacrifice Of Love

2012-03-10T03:48:00.001-08:00

The Prison Of Our Sin

2012-03-06T06:18:00.000-08:00

The Great Mission

2012-03-02T23:32:00.000-08:00

As Christians, we are all given the responsibility to tell others about our Lord an all He has done for us. (see Mark 5:18-20; Psa 66:16) However, the Lord has given His local assembly of believers added responsibilities as we minister for Him. What are those responsibilities? How important are they?

In this lesson, we all be looking at the mission the Lord has given to His local assemblies on earth.

THE SCRIPTURES:

Matt 28:16-20 (KJV)

16) Then the eleven disciples went away into Galilee, into a mountain where Jesus had appointed them.

17) And when they saw him, they worshipped him: but some doubted.

18) And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth.

19) Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost:

20) Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, [even] unto the end of the world. Amen.

THE STUDY:

As we begin our study of the responsibilities given to the local assemblies of Christ, it is important to notice to whom the Lord is speaking…

Matt 28:16-20 (KJV)

16) Then the eleven disciples went away into Galilee, into a mountain where Jesus had appointed them. 17) And when they saw him, they worshipped him: but some doubted.

Here, we find the eleven apostles (the twelve minus Judas) meeting with the Lord. They were meeting with Him on the mount, separated from the great multitudes that had been following Him. These apostles, were the very beginning foundation of the Lord’s local church with Jesus, Himself, being the cornerstone of that assembly.

Our Lord clearly taught this principle in the writings of Paul to the local church at Ephesus…

Eph 2:19-22 – “Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellowcitizens with the saints, and of the household of God; And are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner [stone]; In whom all the building fitly framed together groweth unto an holy temple in the Lord: In whom ye also are builded together for an habitation of God through the Spirit.

(see also Matt 21:42-45; Roms 9:33; 1 Pet 2:7-8)

18) And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth.

As the Lord begins to address the very beginnings of His local assembly on earth, He reminds us that He is the one that possesses the power (authority) of God Himself. The word for “power” does not speak of physical strength… it speaks of authority. Jesus possesses all authority over both the physical and spiritual creation of God. (1 Peter 3:21-22)

Our Lord Jesus has the right to tell us what He would have us to do for Him. He is our Creator (John 1:1-4), He is our Redeemer (1 Pet 1:18-21) and, therefore, He is our Master (Rom 9:20-21, 1 Cor 6:19-20).

The Lord now turns our attention to the three great responsibilities He has given to His local assemblies….

19) Go ye therefore,

Here, we are told to “go”. This sums up the local church’s responsibility.   We should not expect the lost world to come to us and join us in the cause of Christ. We are to go forth into the lost, and spiritually dead, world fulfilling the great responsibility we have been given. (Mark 16:15, Luke 24:47-48)

As we go into the world we should be going with the authority, power and presence of the Lord Jesus Christ… our warfare is to be by Him, and for Him, not through the carnal means of a sinful world (2 Cor 10:3-5)

As the local church ministers among the lost world their goal should be three-fold:

and teach all nations,

The word for “teach” here is a Greek word that means “to evangelize”, in other words to take the gospel message to those who are unsaved.

The first goal of the local assemblies is to take the gospel to the lost (through our words and actions), (Rom 10:13-17; Rom 16:25-26; Acts 26:16-18) and then pray for them, that Christ might bring them to Himself. (Psa 68:20, 2 Tim 2:24-26).

baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost:

Following their receipt of salvation, we are to immerse in water those who have believed. This is the public declaration of what the Lord has done for them. It pictures the death, burial and resurrection of Christ. It also pictures the believer’s death to sin and new life in Christ. (Rom 6:3-5, Col 2:12-15)

Once baptized, the believer is eligible to become the member of the local assembly.

Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you:

The word for “teach” in this verse is a word that means “to indoctrinate”, or “to teach”. This local church responsibility involves instructing those who are members of the church.

We are to teach church members the practical and doctrinal truths of God’s Word. This involves teaching the Word in its entirety. (2 Tim 4:1-5, 2 Tim 3:16-17)

Note this instruction involves the practical application of His Word to member’s life (“teaching them to observe…”)

and, lo, I am with you alway, [even] unto the end of the world. Amen.

The Lord is promising to accompany the local church as its ministers for Him on earth. (Matt 18:20, Rev 1:11-13) It is only through His enabling and intervention that the church can fulfill its mission for Him. (Matt 10:16-20, 1 Pet 1:12, 1 Cor 1:18-24, Rom 1:16)

PRACTICAL APPLICATION:

For those who have trusted in Christ.

As believers, our Lord would desire for us to be scripturally baptized and then to join a Bible believing church. During our time of church membership, we are to be instructed from His Word, and then to live out these truths as faithful servants of Christ.

For those who have never trusted in Christ.

If you have never trusted in Christ as your Savior… the first priority of your life should be to search the Scriptures, recognize your sin and the True Savior, Jesus Christ. Turn from your sin, trust in Christ and His work as the basis of your salvation and accept Him as Lord of your life. It is only after you have trusted Christ that you can follow Him in baptism, church membership and faithful service to Him.

If you have any questions concerning the way of salvation please feel free to visit or call a Bible teaching church in your area. They will be happy to speak to you about the Lord Jesus and the salvation He graciously gives.

Or, if you would rather, feel welcome to email me at settledinheaven@gmail.com. I’ll be more than happy to answer any question you may have.

Also, if you look at my blog page “How To Have A Relationship With God”. On this page, you will find several blog entries explaining the way of salvation.

Please visit the “Settled In Heaven Ministries” homepage – http://www.settledinheaven.org

My Main Blog “Settled In Heaven” (updated twice weekly) – http://settledinheaven.wordpress.com

The following are other places you can find “Settled In Heaven” blog (updated once per month):

www.settledinheavenbibleblog.posterous.com

www.settledinheavenblog.blogspot.com

To see this lesson taught on video please go to my Video Blog at http://www.youtube.com/settledinheaven

If you have any questions concerning this blog, or if you have a subject you would like discussed, please feel free to email me at settledinheaven@gmail.com. I will answer all emails via my blog, email, or both.

Take A Look At My Wife’s Artistic/Scriptural Devotion Blog http://alivewithchristart.blogspot.com

Follow my Squidoo Instructional Lens “Presenting God’s Grace” “The Solemn Obligation To Present the Doctrines of Grace to the Lost and Saved Alike” http://www.squidoo.com/presenting-gods-grace

May the Lord bless your study of His Word. Like God’s Word… may your soul’s salvation and your life’s faithfulness be “Settled in Heaven.”

SIH’s Think On These Things: Matt 5:4

2012-03-01T16:43:00.000-08:00

(Mat 5:4) Blessed are they that mourn: for they shall be comforted.

To “mourn” is to suffer pain due to a loss. Do we ever look at our lives with sadness because we have failed our Lord and brought shame to His name?

The type of sadness I am talking about is NOT a feeling of regret because we were caught in our sin; NOR is it a feeling of torment because we are feeling the results of our sin. It is a sorrow that is motivated by a knowledge that we have sinned against the One how gave His life for us. We have spit in His face, mocked His faithfulness to us and, in a sense, actually placed Him on the cross. Remember, it is for these same sins that He suffered and died.

If this is the type of sorrow that we feel, all hope is not lost. It is a Godly sorrow that leads us to repentance. It is repentance that leads to our forgiveness. And it is forgiveness that gives comfort to a morning heart.

Truly, blessed are those who sorrow with a Godly sorrow, for they will be forgiven and their broken heart will be healed.

May the Lord bless each one of us as we “Think On These Things”.

SIH Homepage: http://www.settledinheaven.org

SIH Text Blog: http://settledinheaven.wordpress.com/all-about-salvation/

SIH Video Blog: http://youtube.com/settledinheaven/

SIH Email: settledinheaven@gmail.com

SIH’s Think On These Things: Matt 5:3

2012-02-29T21:00:00.000-08:00

(Mat 5:3-12) Blessed are the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

To have a “poor” spirit is to recognize that we are a very needy people. It is an attitude of humility and reliance. It is a spirit that says… “We have nothing, and are nothing, without Christ.” This type of attitude motivates us to recognize His blessings and inspires us to consistently look to Him for guidance and the supplying of our needs.

What does this modest attitude indicate about us? The Lord is reigning in our hearts. We are willingly submitting to the leadership of the King of Kings and Lord of Lords. We are a part of His spiritual nation and will reign with Him throughout eternity. This is His kingdom.

This is one mark of a person who has been blessed by God and is living a happy life in Him. Does today’s verse describe your life? Do you have lasting peace and happiness in Christ? If not, trust in Christ and follow Him. He makes us a promise “All that the Father giveth me shall come to me; and him that cometh to me I will in no wise cast out.”

May the Lord bless each one of us as we “Think On These Things”.

Turning Things Upside Down

2012-02-28T23:52:00.000-08:00

Have you ever heard the phrase “putting the cart before the horse”; or, how about “closing the gate after the horse has bolted”? Both of these phrases are saying basically the same thing, they are describing putting things in the wrong order.

Another phrase meaning something similar is the phrase “turning things upside down”. This phrase is speaking of getting the obvious order of things confused and mixed up.

Let’s take time to see how the people of Judah were “turning things upside down”….

THE SCRIPTURES:

Isa 29:13-16 (KJV)

13) Wherefore the Lord said, Forasmuch as this people draw near [me] with their mouth, and with their lips do honour me, but have removed their heart far from me, and their fear toward me is taught by the precept of men:

14) Therefore, behold, I will proceed to do a marvellous work among this people, [even] a marvellous work and a wonder: for the wisdom of their wise [men] shall perish, and the understanding of their prudent [men] shall be hid.

15) Woe unto them that seek deep to hide their counsel from the LORD, and their works are in the dark, and they say, Who seeth us? and who knoweth us?

16) Surely your turning of things upside down shall be esteemed as the potter's clay: for shall the work say of him that made it, He made me not? or shall the thing framed say of him that framed it, He had no understanding?

Isa 45:9-10

Jer 18:1-10

Rom 9:19-21

THE STUDY:

In our text (Isa 29:13-16), we find that the people of Judah were trying to hide their true inward motivations…

Isa 29:13-16 (KJV)

13) Wherefore the Lord said, Forasmuch as this people draw near [me] with their mouth, and with their lips do honour me, but have removed their heart far from me, and their fear toward me is taught by the precept of men:

They were living pious, religious lives but did not love, nor reverence, God in their hearts (vs13).

14) Therefore, behold, I will proceed to do a marvellous work among this people, [even] a marvellous work and a wonder: for the wisdom of their wise [men] shall perish, and the understanding of their prudent [men] shall be hid.

They thought they were hiding this from God and that they were wise in doing so (vs 14).

15) Woe unto them that seek deep to hide their counsel from the LORD, and their works are in the dark, and they say, Who seeth us? and who knoweth us?

Secretly, they lived in opposition to the desires of God for their lives (vs 15).

16) Surely your turning of things upside down

The Lord is confronting them in verse 16, as He states that “Surely (truly), your turning things upside down…”   In other words, He clearly declares they have taken that which was obvious and mixed it all up.

It was obvious God knows all things, including the condition of their hearts. It was obvious the Lord did not desire outward, hypocritical obedience. It is obvious that they were exhibiting foolishness and a lack of knowledge of the True God. It was obvious that they were ignorant of all these truths. They were “turning things upside down”.

Just like the people of Judah in the OT, the Pharisees of the NT times hypocritically served the Lord as well. (Matt 23:23-33, Matt 6:1-8). In today’s time there is no difference. We still have to be on the lookout that we are serving the Lord from a pure heart of love and submission to His will and ways. (Luke 10:25-28).   This is the only way we can avoid following in the footsteps of the people of Judah and the Pharisees.

But there is more that we can learn from our text…

shall be esteemed as the potter's clay: for shall the work say of him that made it, He made me not? or shall the thing framed say of him that framed it, He had no understanding?

What they were doing is much like a piece of potter’s clay complaining to the potter about how it was shaped and formed. Talk about being mixed up! What right does a lump of clay have to complain to its maker?   Absolutely none!

This applies to each of us as creatures of the Lord.   The Lord is our Creator… because of this, He has a right to make us as He will and to plan a life for us of His good pleasure. The basic principles of our Creator’s Lordship and Sovereignty over us are spoken of throughout the OT and NT Scriptures…

Isa 45:9-10 - Woe unto him that striveth with his Maker! [Let] the potsherd [strive] with the potsherds of the earth. Shall the clay say to him that fashioneth it, What makest thou? or thy work, He hath no hands? Woe unto him that saith unto [his] father, What begettest thou? or to the woman, What hast thou brought forth?

Jer 18:1-10 - The word which came to Jeremiah from the LORD, saying, Arise, and go down to the potter's house, and there I will cause thee to hear my words. Then I went down to the potter's house, and, behold, he wrought a work on the wheels. And the vessel that he made of clay was marred in the hand of the potter: so he made it again another vessel, as seemed good to the potter to make [it]. Then the word of the LORD came to me, saying, O house of Israel, cannot I do with you as this potter? saith the LORD. Behold, as the clay [is] in the potter's hand, so [are] ye in mine hand, O house of Israel. [At what] instant I shall speak concerning a nation, and concerning a kingdom, to pluck up, and to pull down, and to destroy [it]; If that nation, against whom I have pronounced, turn from their evil, I will repent of the evil that I thought to do unto them. And [at what] instant I shall speak concerning a nation, and concerning a kingdom, to build and to plant [it]; If it do evil in my sight, that it obey not my voice, then I will repent of the good, wherewith I said I would benefit them.

Rom 9:19-21 - Thou wilt say then unto me, Why doth he yet find fault? For who hath resisted his will? Nay but, O man, who art thou that repliest against God? Shall the thing formed say to him that formed [it], Why hast thou made me thus? Hath not the potter power over the clay, of the same lump to make one vessel unto honour, and another unto dishonour?

WHEN WE RECOGNIZE THE LORD IS OUR CREATOR, WE ARE RECOGNIZING WE ARE UNDER HIS AUTHORITY AND SOVEREIGN RULE OVER OUR LIVES. This is an extremely important principle… by recognizing His Creatorship we are automatically recognizing His authority over us!

This is why Satan is trying for the world to accept the false teaching of evolution as truth. By our believing evolution, God’s position as Creator and, by implication, His authority over us is denied.

To believe in evolution is to be in denial of the literal interpretation of God’s Word and the basic attributes of Almighty God. (John 1:1-3, Gen 1:1, Heb 1:10-12)

PRACTICAL APPLICATION:

For those who have trusted in Christ.

We are to always remember that we are our Lord’s possession in two ways. Our Creator (the Lord Jesus Christ) has given us our physical life (at conception) and our spiritual life (when He purchased us on the cross). As such, we are under His two-fold authority and should be willing to give our all to Him… (words in italics – my insertions):

1Cor 6:19-20 - 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? For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body (given to us at our physical creation) , and in your spirit (purchased on the cross), which are God's.

For those who have never trusted in Christ.

Keep in mind, your physical existence is the result of our Lord’s work of creation (which was begun at conception in your mother’s womb).   Because of this, you are under the authority of Almighty God.

What is your first responsibility to please and serve Him? Recognizing the sin that is in your life is hateful to God. And then, based on a heart of sorrow, turn from your sins.

Come before the Lord with a spirit of humility, knowing that you can do nothing to secure His forgiveness and deliverance form your sins. Come, knowing that He only can bring salvation to you. Trust in His work on the cross as the basis of your forgiveness and deliverance. Accept His forgiveness. Live your life for Him, realizing what great things He has done for you.

If you have any questions concerning the way of salvation please feel free to visit or call a Bible teaching church in your area. They will be happy to speak to you about the Lord Jesus and the salvation He graciously gives.

Or, if you would rather, feel welcome to email me at settledinheaven@gmail.com. I’ll be more than happy to answer any question you may have.

Also, if you look at my blog page “How To Have A Relationship With God”. On this page, you will find several blog entries explaining the way of salvation.

Please visit the “Settled In Heaven Ministries” homepage – http://www.settledinheaven.org

SIH’s Think On These Things: Matt 5:3a

2012-02-27T23:43:00.000-08:00

(Mat 5:3-12) Blessed are the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are they that mourn: for they shall be comforted. Blessed are the meek: for they shall inherit the earth. Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled. Blessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy. Blessed are the pure in heart: for they shall see God. Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God. Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteousness' sake: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are ye, when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely, for my sake. Rejoice, and be exceeding glad: for great is your reward in heaven: for so persecuted they the prophets which were before you.

As we begin our devotions on the Beatitudes, let’s keep in mind the basic theme of our text, it is describing 9 different characteristics of people that are “blessed”. What do we mean by “blessed”? The Greek word for “blessed” is describing a person who has received God’s goodness which results in the recipient’s happiness.

We should take a moment today to ask ourselves a question… Are we living a genuinely happy (blessed) life?

If so, we should thank and praise our Lord for the many goodnesses He has given to us this day.

If not, over the next few days of our devotions, let’s pay special attention to what the Word of God tells us about living a blessed life. The beginnings of a blessed life can only be found in the Lord Jesus Christ… it is only through Him that we can find true happiness and peace.

May the Lord bless each one of us as we “Think On These Things”.

SIH Homepage: http://www.settledinheaven.org

SIH Text Blog: http://settledinheaven.wordpress.com/all-about-salvation/

SIH Video Blog: http://youtube.com/settledinheaven/

SIH Email: settledinheaven@gmail.com

SIH’s Think On These Things: Matt 6:13f

2012-02-26T23:43:00.000-08:00

(Mat 6:13) For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, forever. Amen.

Our Lord is ETERNALLY the King of Kings, the All-powerful Lord over all, who deserves all of our praise and devotion. He always has been, and always will be, the unmatched God of all creation.

His person, His work, and His Word will never change.

Rejoice in Him knowing that we serve an unchanging Lord, who will always work for His glory (and our good) by being faithful to the promises of His Word.

May the Lord bless each one of us as we “Think On These Things”.

SIH Homepage: http://www.settledinheaven.org

SIH Text Blog: http://settledinheaven.wordpress.com/all-about-salvation/

SIH Video Blog: http://youtube.com/settledinheaven/

SIH Email: settledinheaven@gmail.com

SIH’s Think On These Things: Matt 6:13e

2012-02-25T22:56:00.000-08:00

(Mat 6:13e) For thine is … the glory

The Lord’s “glory” speaks of His person (who He is) and His reputation (His revelation of Himself).

Our God stands out exceedingly far above all mankind. He is the Almighty, Creator, King and God of this Universe. He knows all things, is everywhere present and His perfectly sinless and just. He is our loving, heavenly, Father who has given His all for us. This is why He is worthy of all of our reverence, worship, obedience, and attention. He deserves to be at the very center of our lives. This is His “glory”.

As we enter our day, let’s think about how His majesty and greatness. Let’s take a moment to dwell on who He is.

May the Lord bless each one of us as we “Think On These Things”.

SIH Homepage: http://www.settledinheaven.org

SIH Text Blog: http://settledinheaven.wordpress.com/all-about-salvation/

SIH Video Blog: http://youtube.com/settledinheaven/

SIH Email: settledinheaven@gmail.com

Are You An Encourager?

2012-02-24T23:02:00.000-08:00

Barnabas, the missionary companion of the Apostle Paul, is found mentioned throughout the pages of the New Testament Scripture. Although Barnabas is mentioned several times, little is known about this man and his service to his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Barnabas, and his service to Christ, are overlooked subjects lost within the pages of the Word.

The name Barnabas means “son of prophecy”; “son of inspiration”; “son of consolation” or “son of encouragement”. This name for Barnabas was not his given name, it was applied to him later in life as a description of his life and ministry (Acts 4:36). Barnabas was a master at giving strength to those who were weary; he helped give hope to the hopeless and accompaniment to the lonely. Barnabas was, truly, an “encourager” above all fallen humans.

By studying the life of Barnabas we will be placing before us the prime Biblical example of giving encouragement to those who struggle in their service to Christ. Would to God we all could become the “Barnabas” of our day...

THE SCRIPTURES:

Col 1:9-13; Luke 22:31-33; 2Cor 1:3-6; Acts 4:32-37; Acts 9:23-28; Acts 11:19-24; Acts 11:25-26; Acts 11:27-30; Acts 13:3-5; Acts 14:14; Acts 14:11-12; Gal 2:8-13

THE STUDY:

As we study the life of Barnabas, we find several events in his life that help us to understand important aspects of being an encourager...

Event #1 -

The first mention of the events in Barnabas's life is in found in Acts 4:32-37... here, we find the gifts of sympathy for others in need and a willingness to sacrifice himself for the welfare of others.....

A time of great need had come upon the church members at Jerusalem. Barnabas, realizing the people's need, was willing to sell personal property to help the poverty stricken church members...

“And the multitude of them that believed were of one heart and of one soul: neither said any [of them] that ought of the things which he possessed was his own; but they had all things common. And with great power gave the apostles witness of the resurrection of the Lord Jesus: and great grace was upon them all. Neither was there any among them that lacked: for as many as were possessors of lands or houses sold them, and brought the prices of the things that were sold, And laid [them] down at the apostles' feet: and distribution was made unto every man according as he had need. And Joses, who by the apostles was surnamed Barnabas, (which is, being interpreted, The son of consolation,) a Levite, [and] of the country of Cyprus, Having land, sold [it], and brought the money, and laid [it] at the apostles' feet.”

Event #2 -

The another event in the life of Barnabas displays his willingness to accept those rejected by others. Also, he made honest, spiritual judgments not being influenced by the judgments made by others.

Here, we find Barnabas willing to stand with the newly converted Saul of Tarsus. This same Saul was the one guilty of persecuting and murdering Christians in Jerusalem. Barnabas' trust in Saul, and his conversion experience, can only be explained as a divine act of grace.

Acts 9:23-28 - “And after that many days were fulfilled, the Jews took counsel to kill him: But their laying await was known of Saul. And they watched the gates day and night to kill him. Then the disciples took him by night, and let [him] down by the wall in a basket. And when Saul was come to Jerusalem, he assayed to join himself to the disciples: but they were all afraid of him, and believed not that he was a disciple. But Barnabas took him, and brought [him] to the apostles, and declared unto them how he had seen the Lord in the way, and that he had spoken to him, and how he had preached boldly at Damascus in the name of Jesus. And he was with them coming in and going out at Jerusalem.”

Event #3

In Acts 11:19-24, we see that Barnabas was selected to represent the church at Jerusalem as he visited the newly formed church at Antioch. This tells us he was a very responsible man who could be trusted in difficult situations. This speaks volumes about the person of Barnabas. Note how he was described in the later verses of this section of Scripture...

He is described as a “good man” and “full of the Holy Ghost and faith”. In other words, an Godly encourager must be one that spent his life being beneficial to others; he allowed the Holy Spirit and trust in the Lord to control every aspect of his life.

Also, as we see his actions with the Antioch Christians … he was sensitive to the workings of God in the lives of others, he was joyful to see God at work in their lives, and he called them to action by standing with them.

“Now they which were scattered abroad upon the persecution that arose about Stephen travelled as far as Phenice, and Cyprus, and Antioch, preaching the word to none but unto the Jews only. And some of them were men of Cyprus and Cyrene, which, when they were come to Antioch, spake unto the Grecians, preaching the Lord Jesus. And the hand of the Lord was with them: and a great number believed, and turned unto the Lord. Then tidings of these things came unto the ears of the church which was in Jerusalem: and they sent forth Barnabas, that he should go as far as Antioch. Who, when he came, and had seen the grace of God, was glad, and exhorted them all, that with purpose of heart they would cleave unto the Lord. For he was a good man, and full of the Holy Ghost and of faith: and much people was added unto the Lord.”

Event #4

Barnabas shows his humility by recognizing the need for Paul's ministry at Antioch. There was no room for puffed up pride in his life. He recognized that, for the Antioch church's good, Paul need to minister to them as well as he.

Acts 11:25-26 - “Then departed Barnabas to Tarsus, for to seek Saul: And when he had found him, he brought him unto Antioch. And it came to pass, that a whole year they assembled themselves with the church, and taught much people. And the disciples were called Christians first in Antioch.”

Event #5

Barnabas was used as a courier/representative by taking offerings from the church at Antioch and delivering it to the Judaean Christians. This showed his trustworthiness, and willingness to serve in any capacity where needed to help others.

Acts 11:27-30 - And in these days came prophets from Jerusalem unto Antioch. And there stood up one of them named Agabus, and signified by the spirit that there should be great dearth throughout all the world: which came to pass in the days of Claudius Caesar. Then the disciples, every man according to his ability, determined to send relief unto the brethren which dwelt in Judaea: Which also they did, and sent it to the elders by the hands of Barnabas and Saul.

Event #6

Barnabas, along with Saul, was recognized as having the calling of God upon him. This calling of Barnabus, in context, was to a ministry of missions... however, this calling included the exercise of encouragement during the course of his missionary ministry.

(This is why Barnabas is said to be an Apostle of God in Acts 14:14. Barnabas never held the office of apostle, however, a wider meaning of “Apostle” is “one called of God to be a delegate or ambassador” or "one called to do the bidding of another".)

Also, please note that Barnabas was a willing servant of the Lord, willing to do whatever he was called to do.

Acts 13:2-5 - “As they ministered to the Lord, and fasted, the Holy Ghost said, Separate me Barnabas and Saul for the work whereunto I have called them. And when they had fasted and prayed, and laid [their] hands on them, they sent [them] away. So they, being sent forth by the Holy Ghost, departed unto Seleucia; and from thence they sailed to Cyprus. And when they were at Salamis, they preached the word of God in the synagogues of the Jews: and they had also John to [their] minister.”

Event #7

As before in event #4, we see the humility of Barnabas, who was willing to take a back seat to the ministry of Paul. Please recognize, the ministry of Barnabas was JUST AS IMPORTANT as the ministry of Paul. However, Paul's ministry was a more public ministry that was recognized by many more individuals (“he was the chief speaker” of the two.)

Acts 14:11-12 - “And when the people saw what Paul had done, they lifted up their voices, saying in the speech of Lycaonia, The gods are come down to us in the likeness of men. And they called Barnabas, Jupiter; and Paul, Mercurius, because he was the chief speaker.”

Event #8

Here we find, perhaps the greatest exhibition of encouragement in the life of Barnabas. Previously, John Mark had accompanied Paul and Barnabas on their missionary journeys. John Mark, unexpectedly leaves them at Pamphylia. As time passes, John Mark desires to rejoin Paul and Barnabas as they begin another missionary journey. Paul is not willing to take John Mark for fear of him leaving the group again. Barnabas is willing to give John Mark a second chance at service to the Lord.

Here, we see Barnabas exhibiting forgiveness, the willingness to give second chances, the recognition that no one is perfect, and the desire to accompany those struggling to serve the Lord.

Acts 15:36-41 - “And some days after Paul said unto Barnabas, Let us go again and visit our brethren in every city where we have preached the word of the Lord, [and see] how they do. And Barnabas determined to take with them John, whose surname was Mark. But Paul thought not good to take him with them, who departed from them from Pamphylia, and went not with them to the work. And the contention was so sharp between them, that they departed asunder one from the other: and so Barnabas took Mark, and sailed unto Cyprus; And Paul chose Silas, and departed, being recommended by the brethren unto the grace of God. And he went through Syria and Cilicia, confirming the churches.”

As time passes, we find that Barnabas made the right decision in trusting John Mark. We find Paul, in later years, desiring to have John Mark present with him because John Mark had proven himself faithful to the Lord once again...

2Tim 4:11 - Only Luke is with me. Take Mark, and bring him with thee: for he is profitable to me for the ministry.

Event #9

Encouragers are not always perfect... their ministry calls them to make judgments about others all the time. At times, they can make wrong judgments about those they are trying to help... in spite of their imperfections and misjudgments, they continue to serve the Lord and attempt to encourage those who are trying to serve God.

In this case, Barnabas mistakenly encouraging Peter to bend his beliefs to please other men. In the context, there erupts a disagreement between Paul and Peter concerning the gospel going to the Gentiles. At one point, Peter joins with John and James in agreeing with Paul that the gospel should go to the Gentiles... based upon this belief, Peter began to associate freely with Gentiles. However, when Peter enters into the presence of other physical Jews who disagreed with his beliefs, he compromises his stand and separates himself from the Gentiles in an effort to please the Jews. This was a horrible display of hypocrisy. Unfortunately, Barnabas fell into the trap of compromise as well, following the example of Peter. In doing so, Barnabas wrongly encouraged Peter by following his lead.

Gal 2:8-13 - “(For he that wrought effectually in Peter to the apostleship of the circumcision, the same was mighty in me toward the Gentiles:) And when James, Cephas, and John, who seemed to be pillars, perceived the grace that was given unto me, they gave to me and Barnabas the right hands of fellowship; that we [should go] unto the heathen, and they unto the circumcision. Only [they would] that we should remember the poor; the same which I also was forward to do. But when Peter was come to Antioch, I withstood him to the face, because he was to be blamed. For before that certain came from James, he did eat with the Gentiles: but when they were come, he withdrew and separated himself, fearing them which were of the circumcision. And the other Jews dissembled likewise with him; insomuch that Barnabas also was carried away with their dissimulation.”

Here are a few more points about being encouragers ....

Additional Point #1

Godly encouragers point others to the ultimate source of encouragement and strength, The Lord Jesus Christ

Col 1:9-13 - “For this cause we also, since the day we heard [it], do not cease to pray for you, and to desire that ye might be filled with the knowledge of his will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding; That ye might walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing, being fruitful in every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of God; Strengthened with all might, according to his glorious power, unto all patience and longsuffering with joyfulness; Giving thanks unto the Father, which hath made us meet to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in light: Who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated [us] into the kingdom of his dear Son:”

Additional Point #2

Godly encouragers recognize the role of their life experiences in their ministry. They also recognize the importance of their ministry in the plan of God and the lives of God's servants.

Luke 22:31-33 - And the Lord said, Simon, Simon, behold, Satan hath desired [to have] you, that he may sift [you] as wheat: But I have prayed for thee, that thy faith fail not: and when thou art converted, strengthen thy brethren. And he said unto him, Lord, I am ready to go with thee, both into prison, and to death.

2Cor 1:3-6 - “Blessed [be] God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies, and the God of all comfort; Who comforteth us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort them which are in any trouble, by the comfort wherewith we ourselves are comforted of God. For as the sufferings of Christ abound in us, so our consolation also aboundeth by Christ. And whether we be afflicted, [it is] for your consolation and salvation, which is effectual in the enduring of the same sufferings which we also suffer: or whether we be comforted, [it is] for your consolation and salvation.”

PRACTICAL APPLICATION:

For those who are saved...

Let us all be thankful to the Lord for the encouragers who have aided us throughout our lifetime of service to the Lord. Also, let us take seriously, the opportunities the Lord opens to us to be an encouragement to others. Let us always be watchful for those opportunities and be thankful when we are allowed to help others who are striving to serve the Lord.

For those who have never come to a saving knowledge of Christ...

Do you find yourself in need of encouragement? Do you miss having someone who will always accompany and strengthen you throughout your walk on this earth? Then look to the Lord for the forgiveness of your sins and an everlasting presence in your life.

I have a tab available on my blog that gives in depth information on what salvation is and what you must do to be saved. Please click on this link for more information about salvation.

If you have any questions or concerns about your salvation, find a Bible-believing church in your area. The Pastor would be glad to share Christ and the way of salvaiton with you. If you feel more comfortable communicating through email, you are always welcome to email me at settledinheaven@gmail.com.

May the Lord bless you as you seek His truth.

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SIH Ministries Homepage: http://www.settledinheaven.org

My Main Blog “Settled In Heaven” (updated twice weekly) – http://settledinheaven.wordpress.com

The following are other places you can find “Settled In Heaven” blog (updated once per month):

www.settledinheavenbibleblog.posterous.com

www.settledinheavenblog.blogspot.com

To see this lesson taught on video please go to my Video Blog at http://www.youtube.com/settledinheaven

If you have any questions concerning this blog, or if you have a subject you would like discussed, please feel free to email me at settledinheaven@gmail.com. I will answer all emails via my blog, email, or both.

Take A Look At My Wife’s Artistic/Scriptural Devotion Blog http://alivewithchristart.blogspot.com

Follow my Squidoo Instructional Lens “Presenting God’s Grace” “The Solemn Obligation To Present the Doctrines of Grace to the Lost and Saved Alike” http://www.squidoo.com/presenting-gods-grace

May the Lord bless your study of His Word. Like God’s Word… may your soul’s salvation and your life’s faithfulness be “Settled in Heaven.”

SIH’s Think On These Things: Matt 6:13d

2012-02-23T23:51:00.000-08:00

(Mat 6:13d) For thine is … the power…

The Lord is all-powerful. The Greek word for “power” is the word from which we get “dynamite”. It describes the type of power that can accomplish any given task. No matter how great the need; no matter how difficult the situation; no matter how great the temptation… our Lord can intervene and graciously give us the victory. What a wonderful Lord we serve!

Are you facing a trial that seems impossible to get through? Be patient and wait on Him. He will do what is for our good. When we are unable… He is always able!

May the Lord bless each one of us as we “Think On These Things”.

SIH Homepage: http://www.settledinheaven.org

SIH Text Blog: http://settledinheaven.wordpress.com/all-about-salvation/

SIH Video Blog: http://youtube.com/settledinheaven/

SIH Email: settledinheaven@gmail.com

SIH’s Think On These Things: Matt 6:13c

2012-02-22T10:05:00.000-08:00

(Mat 6:13c) For thine is the kingdom,…

The Lord Jesus is truly our King. We are His kingdom. He is our Ruler… Why? He has purchased us with His own blood on the cross…

1Pet 1:18-20 (KJV) “Forasmuch as ye know that ye were not redeemed with corruptible things, [as] silver and gold…19) But with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot:”

Let’s remember the great price He has paid for us and our need to allow Him to reign in our hearts. We are His kingdom and owe Him our everything!...

1Cor 6:20 (KJV) “For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God's.”

May the Lord bless each one of us as we “Think On These Things”.

SIH Homepage: http://www.settledinheaven.org

SIH Text Blog: http://settledinheaven.wordpress.com/all-about-salvation/

SIH Video Blog: http://youtube.com/settledinheaven/

SIH Email: settledinheaven@gmail.com

SIH’s Think On These Things: Matt 6:13b

2012-02-22T00:23:00.000-08:00

(Mat 6:13) but deliver us from evil:…

As fallen mankind, our lives are imprisoned by our own evil sinfulness much like an explorer is trapped and held by quicksand. We are facing eternal, spiritual death and cannot remove ourselves from this horrible situation. Our only hope of deliverance is found in the Lord. He is the One that can reach down and pull us out of sin’s punishment, power and even its very presence (in eternity).

Let’s come before the Lord in a spirit of helplessness and submission, realizing, without His intervention in our lives, we are ensnared by our own sinful desires and awaiting eternal ruin.

May the Lord bless each one of us as we “Think On These Things”.

Settled In Heaven Homepage: http://www.settledinheaven.org Settled In Heaven Email: settledinheaven@gmail.com SIH Salvation Blog Page: http://settledinheaven.wordpress.com/all-about-salvation/

The Observance Of The Lord’s Supper

2012-02-20T22:02:00.000-08:00

To those who have requested this information, I hope it helps…This is a typical Baptist church service in which we observe the Lord’s Supper…

The Message: 1Cor 11:20-34 (KJV)

20) When ye come together therefore into one place, [this] is not to eat the Lord's supper.

Although they were claiming to meet with the intent to glorify God by observance of His supper…

21) For in eating every one taketh before [other] his own supper: and one is hungry, and another is drunken.

22) What? have ye not houses to eat and to drink in? or despise ye the church of God, and shame them that have not? What shall I say to you? shall I praise you in this? I praise [you] not.

They could not have been meeting with the right motives in mind for the supper.

Their actions clearly revealed this… each selfishly ate without consideration of the others. They brought their own suppers to church to eat in front of others. Some ate to fulfill their own fleshly desire of hunger, others drank to excess causing drunkeness. In both cases, this was selfish behavior not behavior that desires the Lord’s glory.

Desires and Intentions are very important in the observance of the Lord’s Supper. Our motives should be:

vs 23-24 - To remember His physical suffering for us

23) For I have received of the Lord that which also I delivered unto you, That the Lord Jesus the [same] night in which he was betrayed took bread:

24) And when he had given thanks, he brake [it], and said, Take, eat: this is my body, which is broken for you: this do in remembrance of me.

Paul’s instructions were based upon the example that Christ Himself set as He led the first observance of the Lord’s Supper.

The bread is symbolic of the body of Christ (His sufferings on the cross). As we chew the bread it is a picture of Christ’s body being abused, torn and broken on our behalf. As we swallow the bread it is picturing that His work has been applied to us.

vs 25 – To remember His shed blood for us.

25) After the same manner also [he took] the cup, when he had supped, saying, This cup is the new testament in my blood: this do ye, as oft as ye drink [it], in remembrance of me.

Paul’s instructions continue …

The fruit of the vine is symbolic of His shed blood (His life given on the cross – the life of the flesh is in His blood). His shed blood is the basis of the convenant of salvation by grace that the Lord has given to us. As we pour the fruit of the vine from the cups to our lips it pictures the His blood being poured form His body. As we swallow the fruit of the vine, we are picturing His blood being applied to us.

vs 26 – To remember His death and His second coming.

26) For as often as ye eat this bread, and drink this cup, ye do shew the Lord's death till he come.

Paul now summarizes what he has covered so far….

A combination of His body being abused, torn and broken along with His blood being shed is symbolic of the process of death that He went through on the cross.

4. vs 27-34 - To drink of it worthily

27) Wherefore whosoever shall eat this bread, and drink [this] cup of the Lord, unworthily, shall be guilty of the body and blood of the Lord.

28) But let a man examine himself, and so let him eat of [that] bread, and drink of [that] cup.

29) For he that eateth and drinketh unworthily, eateth and drinketh damnation to himself, not discerning the Lord's body.

30) For this cause many [are] weak and sickly among you, and many sleep.

Paul gives ample warning about the need to take care in the partaking of the Lord’s Supper. To eat of it in an unworthy fashion is sinful and, therefore, makes one guilty of the body and blood of Christ. He suffered to pay the price for our sins. Some of those sins He died for were the sins of partaking of the Supper unworthily.

How do we eat of it unworthily?

Selfishly partaking of the Supper by having the wrong desires and motives for partaking of it. (context above)

2. Selfishly partaking of the Supper by having known, unconfessed sin in our lives, those sins have caused His death and suffering. Lord sent sinful away before eating. (John 13:18-30)

a. Jesus at sop (before Lord’s Supper) says that one will betray Him’

Disciples ask Him who it is…

John 13:26-30 (KJV)

26) Jesus answered, He it is, to whom I shall give a sop, when I have dipped [it]. And when he had dipped the sop, he gave [it] to Judas Iscariot, [the son] of Simon.

27) And after the sop Satan entered into him. Then said Jesus unto him, That thou doest, do quickly.

28) Now no man at the table knew for what intent he spake this unto him.

29) For some [of them] thought, because Judas had the bag, that Jesus had said unto him, Buy [those things] that we have need of against the feast; or, that he should give something to the poor.

30) He then having received the sop went immediately out: and it was night.

Therefore, we are to take time to give all opportunity to examine ourselves to be sure we have right motives and desires in the supper and that we have no unconfessed sin in our lives.

By partaking of the supper unworthily, we are harming ourselves and may face sickness or even death. This is a big deal, no small issue.

31) For if we would judge ourselves, we should not be judged.

32) But when we are judged, we are chastened of the Lord, that we should not be condemned with the world.

How do we avoid this type of judgment, by taking the time to judge ourselves and take care of our known sins, our desires and intentions in observing the supper.

33) Wherefore, my brethren, when ye come together to eat, tarry one for another.

34) And if any man hunger, let him eat at home; that ye come not together unto condemnation. And the rest will I set in order when I come.

Therefore, we are to make sure we give all the needed time to examine our lives and to prepare our hearts properly for the supper. No selfishness by hurrying the self examination or fulfilling hunger.

The Observance of the Lord’s Supper

Message

Invitation and Time of Examination combined

Uncover Table

Read :

1 Cor 11: 23 - 24) For I have received of the Lord that which also I delivered unto you, That the Lord Jesus the [same] night in which he was betrayed took bread: And when he had given thanks, he brake [it], and said, Take, eat: this is my body, which is broken for you: this do in remembrance of me.

Prayer For Bread

Distribute Bread

Hold Up Bread and Read:

Eat Bread

Read:

1 Cor 11: 25) After the same manner also [he took] the cup, when he had supped, saying, This cup is the new testament in my blood: this do ye, as oft as ye drink [it], in remembrance of me.

Prayer For Cup

Distribute Cup

Hold Up Cup and Read:

1 Cor 11: 25) After the same manner also [he took] the cup, when he had supped, saying, This cup is the new testament in my blood: this do ye, as oft as ye drink [it], in remembrance of me.

Drink Cup

Read:

Matt 26: 29) But I say unto you, I will not drink henceforth of this fruit of the vine, until that day when I drink it new with you in my Father's kingdom.

1 Cor 11:26) For as often as ye eat this bread, and drink this cup, ye do shew the Lord's death till he come.

Matt 26: 30) And when they had sung an hymn, they went out into the mount of Olives.

Closing Prayer of Thanksgiving

Sing Closing Song

Dismissal – Everyone quietly leave church

SIH’s Think On These Things: Matt 6:13a

2012-02-20T00:44:00.000-08:00

(Mat 6:13) And lead us not into temptation, …

We know that the Lord brings temptation upon no man (James 1:13-14). In other words, in this section of Scripture, we are saying “Please do not allow temptation to overcome me today.”

Two wonderful principles is brought out by this request:

The Lord is watching over us and protecting us from Satan and His temptations.

Our Lord is in control of the tempter (Satan, demons, and this sinful world) and the temptations that we face. He will never allow a temptation to come our way that we cannot resist through His grace. (1 Cor 10:13)

Let’s thank Him today for His protecting hand upon us!

May the Lord bless each one of us as we “Think On These Things”.

Settled In Heaven Homepage: http://www.settledinheaven.org Settled In Heaven Email: settledinheaven@gmail.com SIH Salvation Blog Page: http://settledinheaven.wordpress.com/all-about-salvation/

Reader Appreciation Award - I Thank the Lord for You!

2012-02-19T06:36:00.000-08:00

This lovely award was created by Jennifer Avventura and I quote her reason for the award: “I’m giving an award to those who have made this past year of blogging worthwhile. You have kept me on my toes, left comments, advice and tons of encouragement. For this I am grateful. Thank you.”

I was nominated for this award by Angela at http://meetingintheclouds.wordpress.com/. Angela's blog has been a constant source of encouragement to me. Angela is a wonderful lady whose blog glorifies and honors her Lord.  She consistantly honors the Lord by presenting both doctrinal and practical truths for us to live by.

I thank the Lord for her faithfulness and His workings in her life.

Here are the rules for this award:

1. Award your top 6 bloggers who have commented the most.

2. Be thankful.

3. You cannot award someone who has already been awarded. You cannot give the award back to me.

4. Don’t forget to tell the bloggers you’ve awarded.

5. If you don’t want to pass on this award, that’s okay too. Just admire it.

I thank the Lord for the following bloggers who have so faithfully commented on Settled In Heaven Blog.... they are my recipients for this award.

1.  PJ at pjsprayerline.blogspot.com

2. Paul at http://certaintyofdrawings.blogspot.com/2010/10/caught-up-in-clouds.html

3. Joy at http://www.2livewithjoy.com/

Let me mention Angela at http://meetingintheclouds.wordpress.com/ , who has already recieved this award and was the blogger with the greatest number of comments on my blog..

To each of the above... let me say "thank you"! Your comments and suggestions have been a tremendous asset to Settled In Heaven... May the Lord continue to bless each and every one of you!

SIH’s Think On These Things: Matt 6:12

2012-02-19T00:20:00.000-08:00

(Mat 6:12) And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors.

Our willingness to forgive the debts of others is an indication of the Lord’s forgiveness of our sin. After all, if the great debt of our sin has been forgiven by God… how easy it is to forgive the small debts owed to us by others.

Have we ever experienced God’s gracious forgiveness? If so, forgive those who are indebted to us. It is one of the greatest ways we can display Christ and His love to those around us.

May the Lord bless each one of us as we “Think On These Things”.

Settled In Heaven Homepage: http://www.settledinheaven.org Settled In Heaven Email: settledinheaven@gmail.com SIH Salvation Blog Page: http://settledinheaven.wordpress.com/all-about-salvation/

Who Is Your Friend?

2012-02-18T08:22:00.000-08:00

“A true friend is worth their weight in gold”, this saying is forever true, no matter how high the price of gold may rise. A true friend can be counted upon to always keep our confidences, give sound advice, always be there to help in time of need, the list goes on and on.

Even the Word of God addresses the value of friendship when it says in Eccl 4:9-12…

“Two [are] better than one; … For if they fall, the one will lift up his fellow: but woe to him [that is] alone when he falleth; for [he hath] not another to help him up. … And if one prevail against him, two shall withstand him; and a threefold cord is not quickly broken.

The Bible continues on the theme of friendship by explaining that there is one friend that we can have in our lives that far excels over any other friend we may have. This friend is described as “ a friend [that] sticketh closer than a brother.” (Prov 18:24). This friend is the Lord Jesus Christ…. “Henceforth I call you not servants; for the servant knoweth not what his lord doeth: but I have called you friends; for all things that I have heard of my Father I have made known unto you.” (John 15:15)

In Christ, we find a perfect friend. Why is Christ the perfect friend for us? Let’s take time to study what the Word of God teaches us about being friends with the very Son of God.

THE SCRIPTURES:

Heb 4:13-16 (KJV)

13) Neither is there any creature that is not manifest in his sight: but all things [are] naked and opened unto the eyes of him with whom we have to do.

14) Seeing then that we have a great high priest, that is passed into the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast [our] profession.

15) For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as [we are, yet] without sin.

16) Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need.

THE STUDY:

Why is Christ the perfect friend for us? The Word of God gives us the answer to this question in Hebrews 4:13-16 – In this text, we find 4 reasons why we can rely on Christ to meet our every need when we look to Him as our friend.

Reason #1 – He knows us better than we know ourselves…

Neither is there any creature that is not manifest in his sight: but all things [are] naked and opened unto the eyes of him with whom we have to do.

Our Lord knows us better than ourselves… He knows our weaknesses, our likes and dislikes, why we do what we do, our needs, what our future holds, and He ALWAYS knows what is best for us. When we are facing challenging times in our lives, we should run to Him with the knowledge that He knows us perfectly and understands exactly what we are to do. (Job 34:21, Eccl 12:14, Psa 139:12)

Reason #2 – He takes our needs and requests to God...

Seeing then that we have a great high priest, that is passed into the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast [our] profession.

Sinful mankind cannot stand in the presence of a Holy God. This is why Christ’s intercession on our behalf is an absolute necessity.

Acting as our high priest, Christ died on the cross and now through His shed blood , we are found acceptable in God’s sight. He is now sitting at the right hand of God, testifying that He has taken the punishment of our sins upon Himself, His blood is now covering those sins, and we are one of His people. (Hebs 2:17, Hebs 7:25, Hebs 9:24)

Reason #3 – He knows what we are going through..

For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as [we are, yet] without sin.

Christ, who is God Himself, was born into the earth as the Incarnate God. He did this not only to die for our sins, but also, so that He could share in the experiences of this world. He faced temptation (Luke 22:28), disappointment and sorrow (Matt 23:37), loss (John 11:35), hunger (Mark 1:12-13), loneliness (Mark 14:34-40)… the entire human experience. He even knew the feeling of guilt as He bore our sins upon Himself.   This knowledge of our experiences makes Him the perfect One to run to for comfort and encouragement in times of great distress.

Reason #4 – He gives us the ability to come into the presence of our Holy God…

Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need.

With Christ’s blood covering our sin, we can now, as sinful man, enter into the presence of a Holy God. (Hebs 10:19) It is through Christ that we can look to God for the mercy, grace and help to meet our every need in this troublesome world in which we live…

Heb 13:6 (KJV)

6) So that we may boldly say, The Lord [is] my helper, and I will not fear what man shall do unto me.

Oh, what a friend Christ is!

John 15:12-15 (KJV)

12) This is my commandment, That ye love one another, as I have loved you.

13) Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.

14) Ye are my friends, if ye do whatsoever I command you.

15) Henceforth I call you not servants; for the servant knoweth not what his lord doeth: but I have called you friends; for all things that I have heard of my Father I have made known unto you.

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To see this lesson taught on video please go to my Video Blog at http://www.youtube.com/settledinheaven

If you have any questions concerning this blog, or if you have a subject you would like discussed, please feel free to email me at settledinheaven@gmail.com. I will answer all emails via my blog, email, or both.

Take A Look At My Wife’s Artistic/Scriptural Devotion Blog http://alivewithchristart.blogspot.com

Follow my Squidoo Instructional Lens “Presenting God’s Grace” “The Solemn Obligation To Present the Doctrines of Grace to the Lost and Saved Alike” http://www.squidoo.com/presenting-gods-grace

May the Lord bless your study of His Word. Like God’s Word… may your soul’s salvation and your life’s faithfulness be “Settled in Heaven.”

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SIH’s Think On These Things: Matt 6:11

2012-02-18T01:10:00.000-08:00

(Mat 6:11) Give us this day our daily bread.

We are a needy people. We need our spiritual bread (an understanding of His Word) supplied to us every day. Because we possess a physical body, we need our daily physical bread (food, clothing and shelter) provided to us as well.

As we enjoy, and benefit, from the daily blessings… Do we recognize they come from our Lord? Do we partake of them with thankful hearts? By taking the time to request these blessings from Him, we are showing a recognition of our need, an understanding of His grace and appreciation for His divine supplies.

May the Lord bless each one of us as we “Think On These Things”.

Settled In Heaven Homepage: http://www.settledinheaven.org Settled In Heaven Email: settledinheaven@gmail.com SIH Salvation Blog Page: http://settledinheaven.wordpress.com/all-about-salvation/

SIH’s Think On These Things: Matt 6:10b

2012-02-16T23:59:00.000-08:00

(Mat 6:10) Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.

God’s will is perfectly fulfilled in heaven. What a different world this would be if we all flawlessly obeyed His will on earth! No more murder, no more thefts, no lying nor deceit, the list goes on and on.

Let’s all pray that His will be done here on earth…. beginning with our own life.

May the Lord bless each one of us as we “Think On These Things”.

Settled In Heaven Homepage: http://www.settledinheaven.org Settled In Heaven Email: settledinheaven@gmail.com SIH Salvation Blog Page: http://settledinheaven.wordpress.com/all-about-salvation/

Spirits Among Us - What Are They?

2012-02-15T09:44:00.000-08:00

The belief in the existence of ghosts is on the rise, and no wonder… in today’s world the subject of ghosts has flooded the TV screen. A few of the TV shows that have ghosts as a central theme are: “Ghost Whisperer”, “Ghost Hunters”, “Ghost Stories”, “Ghosts Lab”, “American Paranormal”, “A Haunting”, “Celebrity Ghost Stories”, “Being Human” the list goes on and on. One list I found said there are 50 shows currently on TV centering on ghosts. If you would like to see the list just click here: http://answers.yahoo.com/question/index?qid=20110628172308AA4hkzC

With the existence of ghosts a major subject in today’s entertainment world, I thought it would be good to look at the truth about ghosts. The Word of God is the final authority on all issues of life here on earth and in the spirit world. Let’s take some time to examine the truth about ghosts.

THE SCRIPTURES:

Eph 6:10-12; Rom 8:38; 2 Cor 4:3-4; Acts 26:17-18; Mark 1:23-27; 1 Sam 28:11-20; 2 Cor 11:13-15; Mat 17:1-9;

THE STUDY:

In part #1 of our study we have seen that the Bible clearly tells us that the spirits of those who have died DO NOT return to earth and live among us. If this is the case, does this mean that the only living beings on earth are human, embodied beings? Absolutely not!

The Word of God tells us that there is a spirit realm that does exist on earth. This spirit realm includes Satan and others who oppose the things of God. Also, there are angels that exist to aid and protect God’s people.

First let’s look at those spirit beings that oppose the cause of Christ….

(Eph 6:10-12) - Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might. Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.

(Rom 8:38) - For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.

(2Co 4:3-4) - But if our gospel be hid, it is hid to them that are lost: In whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them.

(Act 26:17-18) - Delivering thee from the people, and from the Gentiles, unto whom now I send thee, To open their eyes, and to turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan unto God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins, and inheritance among them which are sanctified by faith that is in me.

(Job 1:7) - And the LORD said unto Satan, Whence comest thou? Then Satan answered the LORD, and said, From going to and fro in the earth, and from walking up and down in it.

(1 Peter 1:5) - Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour:

As we can see, it is obvious that Satan and other fallen angels are present among us seeking to hinder the Christian’s walk with Christ and keep blinded the eyes of the lost world.

Keep in mind angels are spirit beings (do not have fleshly bodies)…

(Heb 1:13-14) - But to which of the angels said he at any time, Sit on my right hand, until I make thine enemies thy footstool? Are they not all ministering spirits, sent forth to minister for them who shall be heirs of salvation?

(Psa 104:4) - Who maketh his angels spirits; his ministers a flaming fire:

(Job 4:15-21) Then a spirit passed before my face; the hair of my flesh stood up: It stood still, but I could not discern the form thereof: an image was before mine eyes, there was silence, and I heard a voice, saying, Shall mortal man be more just than God? shall a man be more pure than his maker? Behold, he put no trust in his servants; and his angels he charged with folly: How much less in them that dwell in houses of clay, whose foundation is in the dust, which are crushed before the moth? They are destroyed from morning to evening: they perish for ever without any regarding it. Doth not their excellency which is in them go away? they die, even without wisdom.

Based on the above we can see that elect and fallen angels (including Satan himself) are spirits that are present on the earth with us. The existence and ministry of these beings explain many of the references to “angels”, “spirits”, “ghosts” and “demons” that we find in the Bible….

(Mat 14:24-27) - But the ship was now in the midst of the sea, tossed with waves: for the wind was contrary. And in the fourth watch of the night Jesus went unto them, walking on the sea. And when the disciples saw him walking on the sea, they were troubled, saying, It is a spirit; and they cried out for fear. But straightway Jesus spake unto them, saying, Be of good cheer; it is I; be not afraid.

(Luk 24:36-40) - And as they thus spake, Jesus himself stood in the midst of them, and saith unto them, Peace be unto you. But they were terrified and affrighted, and supposed that they had seen a spirit. And he said unto them, Why are ye troubled? and why do thoughts arise in your hearts? Behold my hands and my feet, that it is I myself: handle me, and see; for a spirit hath not flesh and bones, as ye see me have. And when he had thus spoken, he shewed them his hands and his feet.

Note in the above references, the followers of Christ understand that spirit beings (fallen angels) do exist on the earth… Christ Himself affirms it by saying “for a spirit has not flesh and bones” . he did not say, “there is no such things as spirits on the earth.”

Here are a few other, among many, verses that speak of fallen angels being active among mankind on earth...

(Jdg 9:23) - Then God sent an evil spirit between Abimelech and the men of Shechem; and the men of Shechem dealt treacherously with Abimelech:

(Mat 10:1) - And when he had called unto him his twelve disciples, he gave them power against unclean spirits, to cast them out, and to heal all manner of sickness and all manner of disease.

(Mar 1:23-27) - And there was in their synagogue a man with an unclean spirit; and he cried out, Saying, Let us alone; what have we to do with thee, thou Jesus of Nazareth? art thou come to destroy us? I know thee who thou art, the Holy One of God. And Jesus rebuked him, saying, Hold thy peace, and come out of him. And when the unclean spirit had torn him, and cried with a loud voice, he came out of him. And they were all amazed, insomuch that they questioned among themselves, saying, What thing is this? what new doctrine is this? for with authority commandeth he even the unclean spirits, and they do obey him.

There are two events in the Bible that seem to teach that the spirits of dead men did appear to those still living on the earth…

(1Sa 28:11-20) - Then said the woman, Whom shall I bring up unto thee? And he said, Bring me up Samuel. And when the woman saw Samuel, she cried with a loud voice: and the woman spake to Saul, saying, Why hast thou deceived me? for thou art Saul. And the king said unto her, Be not afraid: for what sawest thou? And the woman said unto Saul, I saw gods ascending out of the earth. And he said unto her, What form is he of? And she said, An old man cometh up; and he is covered with a mantle. And Saul perceived that it was Samuel, and he stooped with his face to the ground, and bowed himself. And Samuel said to Saul, Why hast thou disquieted me, to bring me up? And Saul answered, I am sore distressed; for the Philistines make war against me, and God is departed from me, and answereth me no more, neither by prophets, nor by dreams: therefore I have called thee, that thou mayest make known unto me what I shall do. Then said Samuel, Wherefore then dost thou ask of me, seeing the LORD is departed from thee, and is become thine enemy? And the LORD hath done to him, as he spake by me: for the LORD hath rent the kingdom out of thine hand, and given it to thy neighbour, even to David: Because thou obeyedst not the voice of the LORD, nor executedst his fierce wrath upon Amalek, therefore hath the LORD done this thing unto thee this day. Moreover the LORD will also deliver Israel with thee into the hand of the Philistines: and to morrow shalt thou and thy sons be with me: the LORD also shall deliver the host of Israel into the hand of the Philistines. Then Saul fell straightway all along on the earth, and was sore afraid, because of the words of Samuel: and there was no strength in him; for he had eaten no bread all the day, nor all the night.

Did Saul actually see Samuel or a demon masquerading as Samuel? To answer this question we should turn to ….

(2Co 11:13-15) - For such are false apostles, deceitful workers, transforming themselves into the apostles of Christ. And no marvel; for Satan himself is transformed into an angel of light. Therefore it is no great thing if his ministers also be transformed as the ministers of righteousness; whose end shall be according to their works.

The Lord would not have blessed the sinful efforts of King Saul by sending the genuine Samuel to deliver the message from the Lord. This is simply a demon masquerading as Samuel to deceive Saul. For an in-depth study of this Biblical event please look at my blog entry located at: http://settledinheaven.wordpress.com/2010/10/17/halloween-part-4-%e2%80%93-the-necromancy-symbols/

Finally, the transfiguration of Christ is brought up as proof that spirits of dead men live among us…

(Mat 17:1-9) - And after six days Jesus taketh Peter, James, and John his brother, and bringeth them up into an high mountain apart, And was transfigured before them: and his face did shine as the sun, and his raiment was white as the light. And, behold, there appeared unto them Moses and Elias talking with him. Then answered Peter, and said unto Jesus, Lord, it is good for us to be here: if thou wilt, let us make here three tabernacles; one for thee, and one for Moses, and one for Elias. While he yet spake, behold, a bright cloud overshadowed them: and behold a voice out of the cloud, which said, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased; hear ye him. And when the disciples heard it, they fell on their face, and were sore afraid. And Jesus came and touched them, and said, Arise, and be not afraid. And when they had lifted up their eyes, they saw no man, save Jesus only. And as they came down from the mountain, Jesus charged them, saying, Tell the vision to no man, until the Son of man be risen again from the dead.

The appearance of Moses and Elijah was a “vision” that Peter, James and John saw. The spirits of Moses and Elijah were not on earth in actuality… they were simply a part of a vision that helped Peter, James and John see:

1. the importance of the OT law and prophets

2. Christ was the fulfillment of the law and prophets (ie He was the True Messiah)

3. a glimpse into what eternity will be like for all who have trusted in Christ.

PRACTICAL APPLICATION:

For those who have trusted in Christ.

We must realize that those who have died do not return and live among mankind on earth. We should also understand that spirit beings do exist among us in the persons of elect and fallen angels (called spirits, demons, angels etc.) We are in a spiritual war and must be certain we are prepared on a daily basis wearing the armor of God that He has graciously given to us. (Eph 6:11-18)

For those who have never trusted in Christ.

There are spiritual powers that exist in this world that incredibly dangerous to man. To dabble in the spirit realm through channelers, Ouija boards, Satanism, Spiritism etc. is incredibly dangerous for Christian and non-Christian alike.

It is only through looking to the Lord Jesus Christ can we find protection and safety from the spiritual powers of darkness that are around us. Look to Christ for salvation, protection and eternal security in Him. (1 John 4:4)

If you have any questions concerning the way of salvation please feel free to visit or call a Bible teaching church in your area. They will be happy to speak to you about the Lord Jesus and the salvation He graciously gives.

Or, if you would rather, feel welcome to email me at settledinheaven@gmail.com. I’ll be more than happy to answer any question you may have.

Also, if you look at my blog page “How To Have A Relationship With God”. On this page you will find several blog entries explaining the way of salvation.

Please visit the “Settled In Heaven Ministries” homepage –

http://www.settledinheaven.org

My Main Blog “Settled In Heaven” (updated twice weekly) – http://settledinheaven.wordpress.com

The following are other places you can find “Settled In Heaven” blog (updated once per month):

www.settledinheavenbibleblog.posterous.com

www.settledinheavenblog.blogspot.com

To see this lesson taught on video please go to my Video Blog at http://www.youtube.com/settledinheaven

If you have any questions concerning this blog, or if you have a subject you would like discussed, please feel free to email me at settledinheaven@gmail.com. I will answer all emails via my blog, email, or both.

Take A Look At My Wife’s Artistic/Scriptural Devotion Blog http://alivewithchristart.blogspot.com

Follow my Squidoo Instructional Lens “Presenting God’s Grace” “The Solemn Obligation To Present the Doctrines of Grace to the Lost and Saved Alike” http://www.squidoo.com/presenting-gods-grace

May the Lord bless your study of His Word. Like God’s Word… may your soul’s salvation and your life’s faithfulness be “Settled in Heaven.”

SIH’s Think On These Things: Matt 6:10a

2012-02-15T00:22:00.000-08:00

(Mat 6:10) Thy kingdom come.

Do we desire for God’s kingdom to come? If so, we are telling Him that we are willing to submit to His will and desires for our life. We are saying, Lord, I desire for you to be the King of my life and reign in the world around me.

Are we willing to follow His leadership, as the Lord speaks to us through His Word?

May the Lord bless each one of us as we “Think On These Things”.

Settled In Heaven Homepage: http://www.settledinheaven.org Settled In Heaven Email: settledinheaven@gmail.com SIH Salvation Blog Page: http://settledinheaven.wordpress.com/all-about-salvation/

SIH’s Think On These Things: Matt 6:9c

2012-02-14T01:19:00.000-08:00

(Mat 6:9c) Hallowed be thy name.

The term “hallowed” refers to “one that is set apart from all others”. Jesus is stating that the “name” of our Heavenly Father is so pure, and special, it is set apart from all others.

The name “Heavenly” reveals to us that He finds His origin in heaven. He is not of this earthly, sinful world. His existence is that of eternal perfection far above all mankind.

The name “Father” teaches us that He is the Beginning (Creator) of all. Also, it helps us to understand that God possesses a love for all which is demonstrated by His care of all creation. This is in addition to His greater redeeming love He holds towards those he has chosen to save.

Today, let’s praise our Lord for being who He is … our perfect loving Creator who reigns from the heavens!

May the Lord bless each one of us as we “Think On These Things”.

Settled In Heaven Homepage: http://www.settledinheaven.org Settled In Heaven Email: settledinheaven@gmail.com SIH Salvation Blog Page: http://settledinheaven.wordpress.com/all-about-salvation/

SIH’s Think On These Things: Matt 6:9b

2012-02-13T00:40:00.000-08:00

(Mat 6:9b) Our Father which art in heaven….

Remember, when we pray, as Christians, we pray to our Heavenly Father who loves and genuinely works on our behalf AT ALL TIMES…. He will always give us what is best for us. If the request is not received, it is only because it would harm us. If the request is postponed, it is being delayed for our benefit.

As we pray, let’s always remember we are praying to One who has a perfect love for us… we can rest knowing He is in control, He knows what is best for us, and He will always bring it to pass.

May the Lord bless each one of us as we “Think On These Things”.

Settled In Heaven Homepage: http://www.settledinheaven.org Settled In Heaven Email: settledinheaven@gmail.com SIH Salvation Blog Page: http://settledinheaven.wordpress.com/all-about-salvation/

SIH’s Think On These Things: Matt 6:9a

2012-02-11T10:04:00.000-08:00

(Mat 6:9a) After this manner therefore pray ye:…

As our Lord begins to instruct us on the content of our prayers, He makes it certain we understand that His instructions are not to be repeated word for word in a vain routine. The Greek word for “manner” puts forth the idea of “following this pattern” or “in this fashion”.

In the preceding verses, He especially emphasizes this principle by saying …”But when ye pray, use not vain repetitions, as the heathen [do]: for they think that they shall be heard for their much speaking. Be not ye therefore like unto them: for your Father knoweth what things ye have need of, before ye ask him.”

As we enter into our day and come before Him in prayer, let’s always keep in mind that our prayers should be sincere and personal, flowing from our hearts in an individualized fashion.

May the Lord bless each one of us as we “Think On These Things”.

Settled In Heaven Homepage: http://www.settledinheaven.org Settled In Heaven Email: settledinheaven@gmail.com SIH Salvation Blog Page: http://settledinheaven.wordpress.com/all-about-salvation/

Spirits Among Us - Do Ghosts Exist?

2012-02-11T00:03:00.001-08:00

The belief in the existence of ghosts is on the rise, and no wonder… in today’s world the subject of ghosts has flooded the TV screen. A few of the TV shows that have ghosts as a central theme are: “Ghost Whisperer”, “Ghost Hunters”, “Ghost Stories”, “Ghosts Lab”, “American Paranormal”, “A Haunting”, “Celebrity Ghost Stories”, “Being Human” the list goes on and on. One list I found said there are 50 shows currently on TV centering on ghosts. If you would like to see the list just click here: http://answers.yahoo.com/question/index?qid=20110628172308AA4hkzC

With the existence of ghosts a major subject in today’s entertainment world I thought it would be good to look at the truth about ghosts. The Word of God is the final authority on all issues of life here on earth and in the spirit world. Let’s take some time to examine the truth about ghosts.

THE SCRIPTURES:

Acts 7:58-60; Luke 23:39-43; 2 Cor 5:1-9; Phil 1:23-26; Psa 88:9-12; Eccl 9:10;

Heb 9:27-28; Luke 16:19-31; Luke 8:51-56;

THE STUDY:

To begin our study, it is very important to define what we mean by a “ghost”. “ A ghost”, for this study, refers to the disembodied spirit of a dead person that dwells among the living on earth. This is the definition we will be using for this study.

The Bible teaches us that once a person dies they immediately depart from this world:

(Act 7:58-60) And cast him out of the city, and stoned him: and the witnesses laid down their clothes at a young man's feet, whose name was Saul. And they stoned Stephen, calling upon God, and saying, Lord Jesus, receive my spirit. And he kneeled down, and cried with a loud voice, Lord, lay not this sin to their charge. And when he had said this, he fell asleep.

(Luk 23:39-43) And one of the malefactors which were hanged railed on him, saying, If thou be Christ, save thyself and us. But the other answering rebuked him, saying, Dost not thou fear God, seeing thou art in the same condemnation? And we indeed justly; for we receive the due reward of our deeds: but this man hath done nothing amiss. And he said unto Jesus, Lord, remember me when thou comest into thy kingdom. And Jesus said unto him, Verily I say unto thee, To day shalt thou be with me in paradise.

(2Co 5:1-9) For we know that if our earthly house of this tabernacle were dissolved, we have a building of God, an house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens. For in this we groan, earnestly desiring to be clothed upon with our house which is from heaven: If so be that being clothed we shall not be found naked. For we that are in this tabernacle do groan, being burdened: not for that we would be unclothed, but clothed upon, that mortality might be swallowed up of life. Now he that hath wrought us for the selfsame thing is God, who also hath given unto us the earnest of the Spirit. Therefore we are always confident, knowing that, whilst we are at home in the body, we are absent from the Lord: (For we walk by faith, not by sight:) We are confident, I say, and willing rather to be absent from the body, and to be present with the Lord. Wherefore we labour, that, whether present or absent, we may be accepted of him.

(Php 1:23-26) For I am in a strait betwixt two, having a desire to depart, and to be with Christ; which is far better: Nevertheless to abide in the flesh is more needful for you. And having this confidence, I know that I shall abide and continue with you all for your furtherance and joy of faith; That your rejoicing may be more abundant in Jesus Christ for me by my coming to you again.

This is why the Word makes it plain that once we are dead we can no longer praise the Lord or serve Him on earth…

(Psa 88:9-12) Mine eye mourneth by reason of affliction: LORD, I have called daily upon thee, I have stretched out my hands unto thee. Wilt thou shew wonders to the dead? shall the dead arise and praise thee? Selah. Shall thy lovingkindness be declared in the grave? or thy faithfulness in destruction? Shall thy wonders be known in the dark? and thy righteousness in the land of forgetfulness?

(Ecc 9:10) Whatsoever thy hand findeth to do, do it with thy might; for there is no work, nor device, nor knowledge, nor wisdom, in the grave, whither thou goest.

Also, the writer of Hebrews understands that, once we die there is no longer any opportunity to receive forgiveness of our sins…. We are given this warning to motivate us to be sure we have received forgiveness in this lifetime…

(Heb 9:27-28) And as it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment: So Christ was once offered to bear the sins of many; and unto them that look for him shall he appear the second time without sin unto salvation.

The account of the rich man and Lazarus gives us a clear understanding of what takes place following the death of both God’s people and those who have never been forgiven of their sins…

(Luk 16:19-31) There was a certain rich man, which was clothed in purple and fine linen, and fared sumptuously every day: And there was a certain beggar named Lazarus, which was laid at his gate, full of sores, And desiring to be fed with the crumbs which fell from the rich man's table: moreover the dogs came and licked his sores. And it came to pass, that the beggar died, and was carried by the angels into Abraham's bosom: the rich man also died, and was buried; And in hell he lift up his eyes, being in torments, and seeth Abraham afar off, and Lazarus in his bosom. And he cried and said, Father Abraham, have mercy on me, and send Lazarus, that he may dip the tip of his finger in water, and cool my tongue; for I am tormented in this flame. But Abraham said, Son, remember that thou in thy lifetime receivedst thy good things, and likewise Lazarus evil things: but now he is comforted, and thou art tormented. And beside all this, between us and you there is a great gulf fixed: so that they which would pass from hence to you cannot; neither can they pass to us, that would come from thence. Then he said, I pray thee therefore, father, that thou wouldest send him to my father's house: For I have five brethren; that he may testify unto them, lest they also come into this place of torment. Abraham saith unto him, They have Moses and the prophets; let them hear them. And he said, Nay, father Abraham: but if one went unto them from the dead, they will repent. And he said unto him, If they hear not Moses and the prophets, neither will they be persuaded, though one rose from the dead.

Notice in this account several interesting points:

Immediately upon death both saved and unsaved leave earth and enter the eternal state (saved into “Abraham’s bosom” – another name for God’s presence; unsaved into “hell” another name for eternal torment – or “prison” in 1Pet 3:19)

They are recipients of the justice of God based upon their deeds on earth during their lifetime. “he is comforted, and thou art tormented”

Their eternal state cannot be changed. There is a division between the two that cannot be spanned. “there is a great gulf fixed, so that they which would pass from hence to you cannot; neither can they pass to us, that would come from thence.”

When there is a suggestion of sending one from the dead back to earth, it is assumed there would be a resurrection from the dead. There is no other option even discussed… “though one rose from the dead”. When Christ resurrected someone from the dead, their spirit re-entered their physical body, and then walked among men on earth…

(Luk 8:51-56) - And when he came into the house, he suffered no man to go in, save Peter, and James, and John, and the father and the mother of the maiden. And all wept, and bewailed her: but he said, Weep not; she is not dead, but sleepeth. And they laughed him to scorn, knowing that she was dead. And he put them all out, and took her by the hand, and called, saying, Maid, arise. And her spirit came again, and she arose straightway: and he commanded to give her meat. And her parents were astonished: but he charged them that they should tell no man what was done.

After studying all the above verses, it is quite obvious that the spirits of those who have died DO NOT return to the earth as disembodied spirits.

If this is the case, does this mean that the only living beings on earth are human embodied beings? Absolutely not!

In our next blog posting, we will examine what spirit beings exist among us and how they affect our lives…

PRACTICAL APPLICATION:

For those who have trusted in Christ.

Let’s be careful to not get “caught up” with the modern day “ghost fever” running rampant around us. Let’s always keep in mind, the final authority on the spirit world is our Lord and His Word. Keeping in mind that departed loved ones will not return to the earth as a spirit, helps us to understand the tremendous responsibility to be a witness to those around us before it is eternally too late. (Matt 9:36-38)

For those who have never trusted in Christ.

The Lord, the Creator of all things (including the spirits of men) has clearly told us in His Word that the dead do not return to earth and dwell among us as spirit beings. Knowing this should motivate us to seek the Lord while we yet have our physical life. Once, we are dead, we no longer have the opportunity to come to Christ, nor can we avoid eternal punishment by simply returning to the earth as spirits and dwelling among the living. (Jer 8:20)

If you have any questions concerning the way of salvation please feel free to visit or call a Bible teaching church in your area. They will be happy to speak to you about the Lord Jesus and the salvation He graciously gives.

Or, if you would rather, feel welcome to email me at settledinheaven@gmail.com. I’ll be more than happy to answer any question you may have.

Also, if you look at my blog page “How To Have A Relationship With God”. On this page you will find several blog entries explaining the way of salvation.

Please visit the “Settled In Heaven Ministries” homepage – http://www.settledinheaven.org

My Main Blog “Settled In Heaven” (updated twice weekly) – http://settledinheaven.wordpress.com

The following are other places you can find “Settled In Heaven” blog (updated once per month):

www.settledinheavenbibleblog.posterous.com

www.settledinheavenblog.blogspot.com

To see this lesson taught on video please go to my Video Blog at http://www.youtube.com/settledinheaven

If you have any questions concerning this blog, or if you have a subject you would like discussed, please feel free to email me at settledinheaven@gmail.com. I will answer all emails via my blog, email, or both.

Take A Look At My Wife’s Artistic/Scriptural Devotion Blog http://alivewithchristart.blogspot.com

Follow my Squidoo Instructional Lens “Presenting God’s Grace” “The Solemn Obligation To Present the Doctrines of Grace to the Lost and Saved Alike” http://www.squidoo.com/presenting-gods-grace

May the Lord bless your study of His Word. Like God’s Word… may your soul’s salvation and your life’s faithfulness be “Settled in Heaven.”

SIH’s Think On These Things: Psa 23:6b

2012-02-09T23:53:00.000-08:00

(Psa 23:6b) and I will dwell in the house of the LORD for ever.

What a wonderful eternity God’s people have awaiting them! There are so many reasons why eternity will be such a blessing… no sickness, no death, seeing saved family and friends, no sin… the list goes on and on. But what is the greatest blessing that eternity holds for us? Being eternally in the presence of our Lord and Savior!

As we enter the weekend, let’s have our minds tuned into the indescribable eternity we have awaiting us in the presence of our Lord!

May the Lord bless each one of us as we “Think On These Things”.

Settled In Heaven Homepage: http://www.settledinheaven.org Settled In Heaven Email: settledinheaven@gmail.com SIH Salvation Blog Page: http://settledinheaven.wordpress.com/all-about-salvation/

SIH’s Think On These Things: Psa 23:6a

2012-02-09T00:10:00.001-08:00

(Psa 23:6) Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life:…

The Psalmist proclaims the truth of eternal security found in the Lord. The Psalmist knew that he was forgiven of his sins and favored by His Lord. He says that “Surely (Truly) goodness and mercy shall follow me…”

He did not say “I hope goodness and mercy will follow me…” Nor did he say, “If I continue to be good enough my Lord’s goodness and mercy shall follow me…” The Psalmist understood that being redeemed by His Lord meant that he was secure in the Lord. His redemptive work secures present and future blessings. His people can look ahead for the day knowing that: He will be with us, He will show us His grace (goodness) and His mercy… We are secure in Him!

May the Lord bless each one of us as we “Think On These Things”.

Settled In Heaven Homepage: http://www.settledinheaven.org Settled In Heaven Email: settledinheaven@gmail.com SIH Salvation Blog Page: http://settledinheaven.wordpress.com/all-about-salvation/

SIH’s Think On These Things: Psa 23:5c

2012-02-08T23:53:00.001-08:00

(Psa 23:5) my cup runneth over…

Oh how good our Lord is to us! The Psalmist is reminding each of us that, if we have trusted in Christ, our cup is running over with His blessings. No matter what trials we may be facing in life remember… we have been forgiven and no longer face sins’ punishment; we are no longer the servants of sin; and, someday, we will spend eternity in the presence of the Almighty Lord of the Universe!

Oh, how blessed we are!

May the Lord bless each one of us as we “Think On These Things”.

Settled In Heaven Homepage: http://www.settledinheaven.org Settled In Heaven Email: settledinheaven@gmail.com SIH Salvation Blog Page: http://settledinheaven.wordpress.com/all-about-salvation/

All That Debate

2012-02-08T01:00:00.001-08:00

Have you ever watched political debates? Debates take place in the Presidential primary races, the United States Senate and House of Representatives. Did you ever watch these debates on TV?   These debates can be very amusing and, if I watch long enough, infuriating.   It amazes me to hear how they stand and argue their point of view about any given issue. In many cases, it is as if they like to hear themselves talk. They repeat themselves, contradict themselves, make statements they cannot substantiate, and, at times, make no sense.

Do you know what is really sad? It is that this type of behavior isn’t limited to politicians only, but is, and always has been, a part of religious discourse. The Word of God makes it clear that we have the responsibility to declare and defend His truth to those who are sincerely seeking His Word. We are to be willing to give our all for the sake of reaching out to those who need and are open to the gospel message.

But there have always been those who, in the guise of seeking the truth, set out to defeat the Word through debate and a humanistic, fleshly understanding of Scripture. How are we to handle those who have already rejected the truth, have closed their mind to the truth, and now want to publically defeat the truth through dialogue, debate and the proclamation of error?

God’s Holy Word has the answer to this question….

THE SCRIPTURE:

1Tim 6:3-6 (KJV)  If any man teach otherwise, and consent not to wholesome words, [even] the words of our Lord Jesus Christ, and to the doctrine which is according to godliness;  He is proud, knowing nothing, but doting about questions and strifes of words, whereof cometh envy, strife, railings, evil surmisings,  Perverse disputings of men of corrupt minds, and destitute of the truth, supposing that gain is godliness: from such withdraw thyself.  But godliness with contentment is great gain.

Mark 6:10-11 (KJV)  And he said unto them, In what place soever ye enter into an house, there abide till ye depart from that place.   And whosoever shall not receive you, nor hear you, when ye depart thence, shake off the dust under your feet for a testimony against them. Verily I say unto you, It shall be more tolerable for Sodom and Gomorrha in the day of judgment, than for that city.

Matt 7:6 (KJV) Give not that which is holy unto the dogs, neither cast ye your pearls before swine, lest they trample them under their feet, and turn again and rend you.

THE STUDY:

As we serve our living Lord and Savior, it is so important that we are willing to share the truths of God’s Word to all men, through our lives and our actions. The Lord describes His followers as the light and salt of this world. (Matt 5:13-16) By this, He meant that we were living testimonies that showed the light of Christ to a sin darkened world. We are the salt that makes this sinful world a desirous place in which to live. We are to withhold the truth to no one. But, what happens when after ministering to others, they close their ears to Christ’s message, devalue His Word, and choose to work for the destruction of the truths that we are attempting to share?

In Matthew 7:6, we are told to cease sharing truth with those who devalue it… “Give not that which is holy unto the dogs, neither cast ye your pearls before swine, lest they trample them under their feet, and turn again and rend you.” Here, we are given two reasons why we are to cease our ministering to them:

They do not treat the Word with the respect it deserves

They can harm our ministry, and render it useless, by wasting our time ministering to those who it will not benefit. Also, they can harm our testimony and ministering by using sinful methods to discredit us (lies, false accusations, etc). It is dangerous to continue to minister to those who have stubbornly determined to oppose the Word at any cost.

(Please Note: These teachings only tell us to cease handing the truth to those who do not want it. It does not say cease praying for them or loving them etc etc.)

In Mark 6:10-11, the Lord gave His followers specific instructions on dealing with those who reject and oppose the truth that they had proclaimed to them. His instructions were three-fold…

“when ye depart thence,” - no longer minister directly to them begin ministering to others who are in need and more receptive to your ministry.

“shake off the dust under your feet for a testimony against them.” – don’t allow the memory of their rejection and treatment of you discourage you. Leave it all behind and go forward in your next place of ministry, proving that they have not hindered your ministry.

“Verily I say unto you, It shall be more tolerable for Sodom and Gomorrha in the day of judgment, than for that city.” – Remember they are facing God’s wrath, they need a softened heart toward the gospel and its ministers…continue to pray for them, when possible show them your love etc.

Those who hear the truth, and then actively oppose it through their teachings, is described in 1 Timothy 6:3-6.

“If any man teach otherwise, and consent not to wholesome words, [even] the words of our Lord Jesus Christ, and to the doctrine which is according to godliness;”

Note those who “consent not” and “teach otherwise”, in other words, we are talking about those who reject and work against the truth.

“He is … strifes of words,”

Here, those who oppose the truth are described in detail. The Lord says that they:

are “proud”

“know nothing”

are “doting questions and strifes of words” - (plagued with questions and seek to quarrel over the truth we have revealed to them.)

“whereof cometh envy… godliness:” – Here we find the results of the questions and quarrels that these men… they produce:

“envy”

“strife” (arguing)

“railings” (speak evil of God)

“evil surmisings” (wicked conclusions)

“Perverse disputings” (twisted and bitter, disagreements)

They are described as :

“men of corrupt minds” (minds that are becoming worse, minds that are decaying)

“destitute of the truth” (total lacking truth)

“supposing that gain is godliness”: (temporal earthly gain can bring about godliness)

“from such withdraw thyself”. – Again, a very plain declaration to remove ourselves from ministering to them and proceed to others who will receive the truth we speak. We cannot force anyone to be saved. If someone rejects the truth and works against it, we need to commit him into the hands of God and move on.

“But godliness with contentment is great gain” – There is no true gain in arguing, twisting God’s Word and cause disagreements about God’s Word… true gain is found in living a life of Godliness, showing God to the world by our words and actions.

This helps us to understand why we are to cease ministering to them and direct our ministry to others

PRACTICAL APPLICATION:

For those who are saved …

Have you been sharing the Word with someone who refuses to accept it? Do you ever find yourself trying to “force” someone into receiving the truth that they have already clearly rejected?

If this is the case, give them over to the Lord, pray for them, love them, but push them no longer. Allow the Lord, through His Spirit, to soften their hearts and make them receptive to the truth. You can save no one… “Salvation is of the Lord”.

For those who have yet to be saved...

Have you rejected the Word of God that someone has graciously shared with you. Have you settled in your heart that the Word is untrue and of no benefit to you?   If so, you are treading on very dangerous ground. There is no guarantee that you will continue to be graced with God’s Word.   Be thankful to those who are sharing His Word with you and receive it knowing that it is meant for your good.

Look to the Lord, believe His Word and trust in Him.   He will not reject those who come to Him.

John 6:37 (KJV) All that the Father giveth me shall come to me; and him that cometh to me I will in no wise cast out.

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SIH’s Think On These Things: Psa 23:5c

2012-02-07T00:39:00.000-08:00

SIH’s Think On These Things: Psa 23:5b

2012-02-06T00:10:00.001-08:00

(Psa 23:6) thou anointest my head with oil…

In the Bible, the Lord anoints people when they are called to do a specific work for Him. Kings, Priests, Prophets, and others, were anointed to announce that they were given a specific task from the Lord. The anointing publically signified that the Lord, in the person of the Spirit, sanctioned them, and would enable them, for that ministry.

Today let us begin our day remembering that, if we are recipients of His gracious forgiveness, we have been called to be witnesses for Him. He has given us His authority and enabling power to live our lives for Him….

As members of His local churches, we have been given the authority to evangelize, baptize and indoctrinate those around us… let’s take our church membership seriously, and work together to fulfill the commission He has given to us.

May the Lord bless each one of us as we “Think On These Things”.

Settled In Heaven Homepage: http://www.settledinheaven.org Settled In Heaven Email: settledinheaven@gmail.com SIH Salvation Blog Page: http://settledinheaven.wordpress.com/all-about-salvation/

SIH’s Think On These Things: Psa 23:5a

2012-02-04T23:44:00.001-08:00

(Psa 23:5a) Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies:

Here, the Psalmist is saying that he was able to partake of a spiritual banquet from his God even when his enemies were present in the same room! So too, we can be assured that no one can stop the Lord’s blessings that He chooses to send our way.

How marvelous it is to know that our Lord can bless us and NO ONE can stop His will from being done … not even Satan himself.

May the Lord bless each one of us as we “Think On These Things”.

Settled In Heaven Homepage: http://www.settledinheaven.org Settled In Heaven Email: settledinheaven@gmail.com SIH Salvation Blog Page: http://settledinheaven.wordpress.com/all-about-salvation/

Genuine Blogger Award - May Jesus Christ Be Praised

2012-02-04T01:43:00.001-08:00

Thank you Angela at http://meetingintheclouds.wordpress.com for giving “Settled In Heaven Blog” this award. Angela has a very unique way of presenting practical Bible truths through the use of the Scriptures, pictures, and both historical and current day events. I so appreciate her faithfulness to her Lord which is clearly seen in her blogging ministry. May the Lord continue to bless her efforts for Him.

As for the “Settled In Heaven Blog”… this blog was created to bring honor and glory to my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. It is through my Lord’s grace and enabling power that this blog exists. I give Him all the praise for the blog and it’s results in people’s lives.

I would like to pass this award to a ‘genuine’ blogger, Calvin Gardner, who has proven himself faithful to the Lord over His lifetime of service to the Lord.

Calvin Gardner, along with his wife, Peggy (my sister), and their 5 children (Ben, Charity, Joy, Daniel, and David) have exemplified what it means to be a family dedicated to the Lord’s service, for His glory. They have ministered in Brazil as missionaries out of Wooster Baptist Temple for the past 34 years. You can read more about Calvin and his family at his two blog sites… http://calvingardner.com/blog/ and http://missionarycalvingardnerbrazil.blogspot.com/

The Lord has graced Calvin and Peggy with a faith that has stood up under many difficult and trying circumstances throughout their lives. Through His intervention, they have proven themselves to be sincere, faithful servants of the Christ. They desire to make His glory and honor the prime goal of their ministry and their personal lives. I thank the Lord for the Gardner family, sincere and genuine, servants of Christ.

If I had to choose a section of Scripture that best describes the Gardner family, I believe it would be 2 Corinthians 5:11-15. To God be the glory.

There are no rules attached to this award.
Recipients are encouraged to add the Genuine Blogger Award logo to their page.

The Mediation of Christ

2012-02-04T00:51:00.000-08:00

A simple definition for mediation is “to make peace between two warring parties”. Mediation is a type of conflict resolution that involves using a third party to settle a disagreement between two opposing parties. It can be used in the framework of our legal system, our corporate system or even in personal and family disputes.

Although mediation has become more frequently used in today’s time, mediation has been used throughout history as an avenue leading to peace. Even in Bible times we find many examples of mediation taking place.

In our blog entry today, we will be looking at an example of mediation being performed by the Apostle Paul. We will also supply references showing the similarity between Paul’s and Christ’s mediation on behalf of sinful mankind. As we begin our verse – by – verse study keep in mind that Philemon is a picture of God the Father; Onesimus is a picture of a sinner being reconciled to God; and Paul pictures for us Christ, the mediator between God and Man…

1Tim 2:5 (KJV) - For [there is] one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus;

THE SCRIPTURES:

Philemon 1:1-25

THE STUDY:

For this study the entire book of Philemon will be our text. Philemon is a very small New Testament book found between the books of Titus and Hebrews. If you are like me, when I was starting to study the Bible, I used to confuse Philemon with the book of Philippians. Philemon is made up of only 1 chapter and has three main characters. It is extremely important to understand these three characters for us to get a clear picture of the content, and teachings, of the book of Philemon:

Philemon – He was a very rich man, a Christian, and a beloved acquaintance of the Apostle Paul. He owned servants and loved them and cared for them as if they were members of his family. Possibly, Philemon was saved under the ministry of Paul. In our text, Philemon is a picture of God the Father.

Onesimus – He was a spiritually lost individual who is described as an “unprofitable” servant of Philemon. Perhaps, he had stolen from Philemon; perhaps, he was a slacker; or maybe, he was a complainer, stirring up trouble among the other servants; we cannot know for sure. He had illegally run away from Philemon. During his flight, he met the Apostle Paul. Under Paul’s ministry, Onesimus had been saved and desired to go back to Philemon and serve under his authority once again. Onesimus is a picture of the sinner who is being reconciled to God through the interecession of Christ.

Apostle Paul – Paul takes upon himself the ministry of mediation between Philemon and Onesimus. Paul writes the letter of Philemon, asking His beloved acquaintance (Philemon) to accept Onesimus back and forgive him of any wrongdoing Onesimus had committed against Philemon. Paul is a picture of the Mediator, the Lord Jesus Christ.

In our study today, we will find many different aspects to Paul’s mediation that pictures for us the mediation of Christ on behalf of the sinner being brought to a saving knowledge of Christ.

1-7) Paul, a prisoner of Jesus Christ, and Timothy [our] brother, unto Philemon our dearly beloved, and fellowlabourer, And to [our] beloved Apphia, and Archippus our fellowsoldier, and to the church in thy house: Grace to you, and peace, from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. I thank my God, making mention of thee always in my prayers, Hearing of thy love and faith, which thou hast toward the Lord Jesus, and toward all saints; That the communication of thy faith may become effectual by the acknowledging of every good thing which is in you in Christ Jesus. For we have great joy and consolation in thy love, because the bowels of the saints are refreshed by thee, brother.

The above verses are the introduction to Paul’s letter of mediation to Philemon. In the above, Paul sends his greetings to the members of the church in Philemon’s house. He also commends Philemon for his faithfulness in service to the Lord.

Paul, now, begins his ministry of mediation on behalf of Onesimus….

8) Wherefore, though I might be much bold in Christ to enjoin thee that which is convenient, Yet for love's sake I rather beseech [thee], being such an one as Paul the aged, and now also a prisoner of Jesus Christ.

Principle #1: The salvation that the Lord graciously gives to us is a gift of grace, based upon His love to us. (Romans 5:8, 8:39, Titus 3:4-5)

Paul saying that although he could have required Philemon to accept Onesimus based upon the requirements of the Lord (and Paul’s relationship to Philemon), he refused to do so. Paul wanted Philemon to accept Onesimus based upon love, not necessity.

10) I beseech thee for my son Onesimus, whom I have begotten in my bonds:

Principle #2: Christ stands between the fallen man and God the Father working to bring peace between the two parties. (Eph 2:14-16, 1 Tim 2:5, Hebs 7:25, Heb 9:15, 12:24,)

Why are the two parties at odds with one another? Lost man is separated from God the Father due to his sin. He has rebelled against God the Father, displeased God the Father and is facing the just wrath of the Father. God the Father, who is the holy, sinless and just, cannot excuse sin; nor, can He stand in the presence of sin. Based upon His holiness and the demands of His law He must punish sin.

In our text, Paul is explaining to Philemon that he is writing this letter on behalf of Onesimus.

11) Which in time past was to thee unprofitable, but now profitable to thee and to me:

Principle #3: The lost person who was unprofitable to God, once saved, becomes a profitable servant living his life for the glory of his God (2 Cor 5:17-21, Eph 2:10, 4:24, 1 John 1:7, 2:6).

Paul, as he makes intercession to Philemon, reminds him that Onesimus is a changed man who could now benefit Philemon if he accepted Onesimus back.

12) Whom I have sent again: thou therefore receive him, that is, mine own bowels:

Principle #4: When the Father forgives us and brings us into His family, He is accepting us based upon the righteousness of Christ placed upon us. In that sense, He is accepting us as if we Christ. (Rom 5:17-21, 10:4, 1 Cor 1:30, Phil 3:9, 1 Pet 1:1, Rev 7:14)

Paul is asking Philemon to accept Onesimus, as if Onesimus was Paul himself.

13) Whom I would have retained with me, that in thy stead he might have ministered unto me in the bonds of the gospel:

Principle #5: Once saved, the believer is to minister unto Christ, his Mediator and Savior, this ministry is to only end at his death. At death, the saint goes home to be with the Father and begins ministering to Him. (Rom 6:16-22, Eph 6:6, Rev 1:1, Rev 7:15)

Paul explained that Onesimus was serving Paul before Onesimus departed to be with Philemon. He would serve Philemon once he entered into his presence.

14) But without thy mind would I do nothing; that thy benefit should not be as it were of necessity, but willingly.

Principle #6: The Lord was in no way obligated to save us, He freely choose to do so based upon His love for us. (Eph 1:3-6, 1:11, Rom 8:29-30, 9:11-16, Phil 2:13)

            Paul desired for Philemon to freely choose to accept Onesimus back.

15 -17) For perhaps he therefore departed for a season, that thou shouldest receive him for ever;

Principle #7: Once saved, the saint is now eternally safe in the hands of His God. Nothing can come between Him and His Lord ever again. His sins have been paid for (and forgiven) past, present and future. (John 10:25-30, 17:11-12, Hebs 2:12-13, 7:22-28 ,1 Pet 1:3-5)

Paul here is reminding Philemon that, if he accepts Onesimus back into servant hood, it would be gaining a profitable servant on a permanent basis.

16) Not now as a servant, but above a servant, a brother beloved, specially to me, but how much more unto thee, both in the flesh, and in the Lord?

Principle #8: Once saved, the saint becomes a member of the family of God and joint-heirs with Christ. (Roms 8:16-18, Gals 3:29, 4:7, Eph 3:6, Titus 3:7)

Paul explains that Philemon was to accept Onesimus, not simply as a servant, but as a relative fo Paul and a member of Philemon’s own family.

17)If thou count me therefore a partner, receive him as myself.

Principle #9: The salvation of a sinner is based on the harmonious work of the Trinity. One of the purposes for their workings on behalf of the sinner is so that the Trinity might be glorified (Eph 1:1-14).

Paul asks Philemon to recognize they are both working towards the same goal, serving the Lord for His glory. Therefore, Philemon should receive Onesimus for the same reason (so that the Lord might be glorified).

18) If he hath wronged thee, or oweth [thee] ought, put that on mine account;

19) I Paul have written [it] with mine own hand, I will repay [it]: albeit I do not say to thee how thou owest unto me even thine own self besides.

Principle #10: The sin debt of the sinner is paid by Christ, this is the basis of their salvation. With the completion of Christ’s payment on the cross, the salvation of God’e people becomes an act that does not go against the justice of God. Since the sin debt of God’s people was paid by Christ, God can now, justly, withhold the punishment for the lost man’s sin. (1 Pet 1:17-19, 2:22-24, 3:18, Matt 6:28, Col 1:12-14, 1 Cor 6:20, 2 Cor 5:21, Gal 3:13, Eph 5:2)

Paul tells Philemon to charge Paul for any debt Onesimus owed to Philemon. Paul would pay for the debt of Onesmius. In other words, Philemon should not hold any debt against Onesimus; and allow it to be a hindrance to accepting Onesimus back.

20) Yea, brother, let me have joy of thee in the Lord: refresh my bowels in the Lord.

Principle # 11: Christ finds great joy in a sinner becoming reconciled to the Father (Matt 18:10-14, Luke 15:5-10,)

            Philemon accepting Onesimus would bring great joy to Paul.

21) Having confidence in thy obedience I wrote unto thee, knowing that thou wilt also do more than I say.

Principle #12: When Christ died on the cross, it was based upon the Father’s will and had assurance that it would result in the salvation of His people (Rom 8:29-30, Phil 1:6, 2 Thess 2:13-14).

            Paul had confidence in Philemon that he would do what was right.

22) But withal prepare me also a lodging: for I trust that through your prayers I shall be given unto you.

Principle #13: Following His death and resurrection, Christ ascended to be with the Father to live with Him eternally. He is now preparing a place for Christians to live with Him as well. (John 14:1-4, Acts 2:32-36, Eph 1:20-23, Phil 2:9-11, 1 Pet 3:22, Rev 21:2)

            Paul was planning on going to be with Philemon in the near future.

23) There salute thee Epaphras, my fellowprisoner in Christ Jesus;

24) Marcus, Aristarchus, Demas, Lucas, my fellowlabourers.

25) The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ [be] with your spirit. Amen.

          Paul closes the letter with wishes to those that were with Philemon.

Have you ever come to peace with your God? By turning from the sin that you have committed and turning to Him, in faith, you can come to peace with God.

Rom 5:1-2 (KJV)

1) Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ: 2) By whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God.

If you have any questions concerning the way of salvation please feel free to visit or call a Bible teaching church in your area. They will be happy to speak to you about the Lord Jesus and the salvation He graciously gives.

Or, if you would rather, feel welcome to email me at settledinheaven@gmail.com. I’ll be more than happy to answer any question you may have.

Also, if you look at my blog page “How To Have A Relationship With God”. On this page, you will find several blog entries explaining the way of salvation.

Please visit the “Settled In Heaven Ministries” homepage –

SIH’s Think On These Things: Psa 23:4b

2012-02-02T21:56:00.001-08:00

(Psa 23:4b) thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.

Shepherds used their rod to fight off any threatening animals that were trying to harm members of their flock. They used the staff to aid them in walking and to lift trapped or crippled animals from otherwise inaccessible areas. What a wonderful picture of our Lord’s care of His people!

The Lord’s protection of us, and His help in our daily walk, is a source of great comfort for those of us who are dedicated to His service. Let’s thank Him today for His never-ending attention and gracious intervention in our lives.

May the Lord bless each one of us as we “Think On These Things”.

Settled In Heaven Homepage: http://www.settledinheaven.org Settled In Heaven Email: settledinheaven@gmail.com SIH Salvation Blog Page: http://settledinheaven.wordpress.com/all-about-salvation/

SIH’s Think On These Things: Psa 23:4a

2012-02-02T01:07:00.001-08:00

(Psa 23:4a) - Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil for thou art with me…

For Christians, death is only a shadow. It may look dark, scary and mysterious, but death doesn’t hurt the Christian… it is the gateway that leads them to the presence of the Lord. When faced with death, Christians can walk calmly knowing the Lord is with them every step of the way.

Let’s thank our Lord for the peace we have; although we do not know what tomorrow may hold, we know who holds tomorrow…. And He will be with us every step of the way.

May the Lord bless each one of us as we “Think On These Things”.

Settled In Heaven Homepage: http://www.settledinheaven.org Settled In Heaven Email: settledinheaven@gmail.com SIH Salvation Blog Page: http://settledinheaven.wordpress.com/all-about-salvation/

Principles for Mediation

2012-01-31T06:47:00.000-08:00

A simple definition for mediation is “to make peace between two warring parties”. Mediation is a type of conflict resolution that involves using a third party to settle a disagreement between two opposing parties. It can be used in the framework of our legal system, our corporate system or even in personal and family disputes.

As Pastor, there are many opportunities to minister as mediator in the lives of others. Disputes can take place within the pastor’s family, or within church member’s families, or even within the church assembly as a whole. In many cases, the Pastor is looked to as the individual that is best equipped to bring the disagreeing parties to peace.

Although mediation has become more frequently used in today’s time, mediation has been used throughout history as an avenue leading to peace. Even in Bible times we find many examples of mediation taking place.

In our blog entry today, we will be looking at an example of mediation being performed by the Apostle Paul. Let’s see what we can learn about the act of mediation and the Biblical principles that should regulate all acts of mediations….

THE SCRIPTURES:

Philemon 1:1-25

THE STUDY:

For this study the entire book of Philemon will be our text. Philemon is a very small New Testament book found between the books of Titus and Hebrews. If you are like me, when I was starting to study the Bible, I used to confuse Philemon with the book of Philippians. Philemon is made up of only 1 chapter and has three main characters. It is extremely important to understand these three characters for us to get a clear picture of the content, and teachings, of the book of Philemon:

Philemon – He was a very rich man, a Christian, and a beloved acquaintance of the Apostle Paul. He owned servants and loved them and cared for them as if they were members of his family. Possibly, Philemon was saved under the ministry of Paul.

Onesimus – He was a spiritually lost individual who is described as an “unprofitable” servant of Philemon. Perhaps, he had stolen from Philemon; perhaps, he was a slacker; or maybe, he was a complainer, stirring up trouble among the other servants; we cannot know for sure. He had illegally run away from Philemon. During his flight, he met the Apostle Paul. Under Paul’s ministry, Onesimus had been saved and desired to go back to Philemon and serve under his authority once again.

Apostle Paul – Paul takes upon himself the ministry of mediation between Philemon and Onesimus. Paul writes the letter of Philemon, asking His beloved acquaintance (Philemon) to accept Onesimus back and forgive him of any wrongdoing Onesimus had committed against Philemon.

In our study today, we will find many different aspects to Paul’s mediation techniques that set him apart from the mediators of today…

1-3) Paul, a prisoner of Jesus Christ, and Timothy [our] brother, unto Philemon our dearly beloved, and fellowlabourer, And to [our] beloved Apphia, and Archippus our fellowsoldier, and to the church in thy house: Grace to you, and peace, from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.

Paul’s greetings to Philemon and the church that met in his house.   Throughout Paul’s writings we find him wishing other Christians to have grace and peace. (Rom 1:7, 1 Cor 1:3, 2 Cor 1:2, Gal 1:3, Eph 1:2, Phil 1:2, Col 1:2 etc) It is as if this was Paul’s “signature” greeting.   If we have experienced the Lord’s grace in our hearts, and if we have peace and communion with Him we are being blessed indeed.

4-7) I thank my God, making mention of thee always in my prayers, Hearing of thy love and faith, which thou hast toward the Lord Jesus, and toward all saints; That the communication of thy faith may become effectual by the acknowledging of every good thing which is in you in Christ Jesus. For we have great joy and consolation in thy love, because the bowels of the saints are refreshed by thee, brother.

Philemon’s testimony of faithfulness and service to the Lord had reached the ears of Paul. Here, Paul is thanking Philemon for his faithfulness and trusting the Lord to give Philemon fruits for his faithful labor (“that the communication of thy faith may become effectual”). Paul also tried to encouraged Philemon to continue his faithfulness by explaining how Philemon was a blessing to others.

Paul, now, begins his ministry of mediation on behalf of Onesimus….

8) Wherefore, though I might be much bold in Christ to enjoin thee that which is convenient,

Mediation principle number #1: We must always make sure that our mediation is upholding the principles of God’s Word. We should NEVER lead others to act, or make agreements that of against the Word of God.

First, Paul reminds Philemon that Paul has a Biblical basis for commanding Philemon to forgive and accept back Onesimus. Paul makes it clear that he could pressure Philemon to forgive.

Here, the word “convenient” is translated from a Greek word meaning “to be proper” or “to be fitting”. As a Christian, it is only proper or fitting for us to forgive others. Since we have been forgiven for so much by our Lord should we not be willing to forgive others for the little they have done against us? (Matt 18:23-35)

9) Yet for love's sake I rather beseech [thee], being such an one as Paul the aged, and now also a prisoner of Jesus Christ.

Mediation principle #2: We should always seek a willing agreement to bring peace, not an agreement that is forced or manipulated.

Paul realized that Philemon should not be forced to forgive Onesimus. A forced forgiveness is really no forgiveness at all. To forgive, we must willingly choose to show our compassion to the offender. Paul continues by stating that instead of commanding forgiveness based upon the commands of Christ, Paul is now appealing to Philemon’s love for the Lord, Paul, and even Onesimus. In other words, Paul is asking Philemon to forgive and accept back Onesimus, because Philemon loves Paul and out of appreciation for what Paul has done for Philemon. Paul was asking this favor of his longtime friend Philemon.

10-11) I beseech thee for my son Onesimus, whom I have begotten in my bonds: Which in time past was to thee unprofitable, but now profitable to thee and to me:

Mediation principle #3: the Mediator must be honest and open with both sides, revealing any “hidden agendas” or relationships the mediator has with either of the two parties.

Paul makes clear that he is working on behalf of Onesimus. Please notice Paul was “up-front” with Philemon telling him of Onesimus and the purpose of his writing to Philemon.

Mediation principle #4: the Mediator should only speak using information he knows is true. He should not use information based upon assumptions, nor guesses, when he is trying to bring the two parties to peace.

Paul then makes it plain that Onesimus has changed. The one who used to be an unprofitable servant was now profitable as a aide of Paul’s, and would be profitable to Philemon if he accepted him back. Paul knew this from his experiences with Onesimus. Paul knew that Onesimus had changed and, therefore, would be profitable to Philemon.

12 - 13) Whom I have sent again: thou therefore receive him, that is, mine own bowels: Whom I would have retained with me, that in thy stead he might have ministered unto me in the bonds of the gospel:

Mediation principle #5: the Mediator should willing to live under the same agreement that he is asking the parties to agree to. If the Mediator isn’t willing to live under either side of the agreement there is a question whether the agreement is fair or not.

Paul tells Philemon that he would be willing to accept Onesimus as his servant. He sincerely believed that accepting Onesimus back would be of benefit to Philemon. If Philemon refused to accept Onesimus back, Paul would be glad to fill Philemon’s role as master of Onesimus.

14) But without thy mind would I do nothing; that thy benefit should not be as it were of necessity, but willingly.

Mediation principle #6: the Mediator must take into account the legal, and moral, rights of both parties of the dispute.

Paul did not simply allow Onesimus to stay with him and serve him. Paul recognized that Philemon had the legal, and moral, right to Onesimus. So Paul sent Onesimus back to his rightful owner,Philemon.

15 -17) For perhaps he therefore departed for a season, that thou shouldest receive him for ever; Not now as a servant, but above a servant, a brother beloved, specially to me, but how much more unto thee, both in the flesh, and in the Lord? If thou count me therefore a partner, receive him as myself.

Mediation principle #7: The Mediator should seek an agreement that allows both parties to benefit. Their purpose should be to accomplish the purposes of both the parties of the disagreement.

Paul had previously said that, if Philemon accepted Onesimus, he would benefit from Onesimus’s service. Paul now makes sure that if Onesimus is accepted back, it will be for Onesimus’s welfare also.

Paul asks Philemon to accept Onesimus, not as a servant, but as a physical and spiritual family member. After all, Philemon, Onesimus, and Paul were beloved of God, they were saved and all a part of God’s family. As spiritual brothers they should be loved of one another as well.

18) If he hath wronged thee, or oweth [thee] ought, put that on mine account;

19) I Paul have written [it] with mine own hand, I will repay [it]: albeit I do not say to thee how thou owest unto me even thine own self besides.

Mediation principle #8: A Mediator should be unselfish and willing to make sacrifices to make bring peace between the two parties.

In this case, Paul was willing to repay any debt that Onesimus owed to Philemon, if the debt stood in the way of Philemon accepting Onesimus back. Paul was being very gracious to both parties; to Onesimus (Paul was willing to pay the debt Onesimus had incurred); to Philemon, because He was willing to pay Philemon (even though Philemon owed Paul his very life).   Paul certainly was willing to “bend over backwards” to see this attempt at mediation be a successful attempt.

20) Yea, brother, let me have joy of thee in the Lord: refresh my bowels in the Lord.

Mediation Principle #9: Mediation should not simply “a job”, it should be looked upon as a calling, and an opportunity to glorify the Lord through the mediator’s actions

Paul recognized this mission of mediation had spiritual repercussions. Seeing Onesimus with Philemon, would bring joy and spiritual strength to Paul, knowing that he had successfully obeyed the Lord and fulfilled His will for the life of Paul.

21) Having confidence in thy obedience I wrote unto thee, knowing that thou wilt also do more than I say.

Mediation Principle #10 – The Mediator must always approach the mediation with a positive attitude, believing that both parties will sincerely negotiate and, in the end, do what is right in the eyes of the Lord.

Paul knew Philemon and trusted him to do what the Lord desired of him. Paul believed that Philemon would be willing to go above and beyond to please his Lord and be kind and gracious to Onesimus the disobedient servant who was in need of forgiveness and grace.

22) But withal prepare me also a lodging: for I trust that through your prayers I shall be given unto you.

23) There salute thee Epaphras, my fellowprisoner in Christ Jesus;

24) Marcus, Aristarchus, Demas, Lucas, my fellowlabourers.

25) The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ [be] with your spirit. Amen.

Paul then closes his letter to Philemon, making preparations to visit Philemon soon and see him face to face.

Not only is Philemon a wonderful book illustrating many principles for Scriptural mediation, nut more importantly, it also presents to us a picture of Christ’s mediation before the Father on behalf of sinful mankind. In our next blog entry, we will be studying this aspect of the book of Philemon. May the Lord be blessed in your study of His Word.

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SIH’s Think On These Things: Psa 23:3b

2012-01-30T21:06:00.000-08:00

(Psa 23:3b) … he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake.

Our Lord, as our Shepherd, directs us to please our God with our lives. It is through the Spirit’s application of the Word that we find direction for our day to day living. Why does God do this for us? It is for “His name’s sake”. In other words, it is to glorify and bring praise to Himself.

Do you want to honor the Lord for all He has done for you? Then simply read His Word and follow the Spirit’s leadership. You will be glorifying and honoring Him in the eyes of all who come in contact with you.

May the Lord bless each one of us as we “Think On These Things”.

Settled In Heaven Homepage: http://www.settledinheaven.org Settled In Heaven Email: settledinheaven@gmail.com SIH Salvation Blog Page: http://settledinheaven.wordpress.com/all-about-salvation/

The Candle Lighter Award - Dedicated To My Lord Jesus Christ... The Light Of The World

2012-01-30T02:06:00.000-08:00

Thank you to Angela at http://meetingintheclouds.wordpress.com for nominating me for the Candle Lighter Award. It is such a blessing to see how the Lord is using Angela to reach others. Both of us are like minded in realizing that without the Lord “(we) can do nothing”. The Lord has used Angela as a vessel to deliver to me wonderful, God-glorifying, thoughts for my day and encouragement thru her example of faithfulness to her blogging ministry.

Once, again I would like to emphasize that this award is dedicated to my Lord, for it is only through Him that this blog can exist. You see, I owe Him my everything: my physical life, my spiritual life, my ability to think and write, any talents I may possess .... John 9:33 describes me to a tee... "If this man were not of God, he could do nothing."

Oh how true that is... that is why I want to clearly state that this award is my Lord's. He is the poet... my life is simply the poem that He has written ... Eph 2:10 ...For we are his workmanship (or poem), created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.

This award was created by Believe Anyway who says "I call my award The Candle Lighter Award. It is for blogs and bloggers that light a candle in the darkness with their blog. What does it mean? Whenever I see a post or blog that I think brings light to the world, I will put a copy of this post and give them The Candle Lighter Award."

You can read more about the award at

http://believeanyway.wordpress.com/2011/12/18/creation-of-new-blog-award-the-candle-lighter-award/

Believe anyway writes: “What does the recipient have to do to accept it? Just accept it and put the Candle Lighter Award badge from my blog onto their blog. Please put the link from this post about my creation of the award in a post on your blog so people can read about it. What else do recipients have to do? Nothing. If they think someone else is a Candle Lighter, they can give them the award anytime they want and as often as they want. There is no limit to how many blogs you award The Candle Lighter Award to and no limit to how many times someone can receive it.”

If you are looking for good blogs to read, Believe Anyway has a list of recipients on her blog. She would like to be sent the links for anyone to whom you pass the award, so they can be added to the list.

Keeping with the spirit of the Lamp Lighters Award... I would like to nominate:

Tom and Charlie at http://photobotos.com/ for their unique photography blog. It displays the beauty of our Lord's creation along with adding some humor to my day as well.

I would also like to nominate http://groveonline.wordpress.com . This blog is written by a Bible College student who shares Bible teaching on various areas of doctrine. Although, I do not agree with everything that is said (so what else is new). Grove shares ALOT of good Scriptural information.

And finally I would like to nominate my wife's blog http://alivewithchristart.blogspot.com/ Here, she uses her photographs and artwork to present truths about our Lord.

SIH’s Think On These Things: Psa 23:3a

2012-01-30T00:04:00.000-08:00

(Psa 23:3) He restoreth my soul…

Our Lord is a constant source of spiritual strength and vitality for His people. Dear Christian, do you feel tired in your service to Him? Are you “weary in well-doing”? Patiently wait upon His renewal and His comfort in your life. He has not left you alone, nor has He ignored your faithful service to Him…

Isa 40:31 (KJV) - But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew [their] strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; [and] they shall walk, and not faint.

May the Lord bless each one of us as we “Think On These Things”.

Settled In Heaven Homepage: http://www.settledinheaven.org Settled In Heaven Email: settledinheaven@gmail.com SIH Salvation Blog Page: http://settledinheaven.wordpress.com/all-about-salvation/

SIH’s Think On These Things: Psa 23:2

2012-01-28T23:55:00.000-08:00

(Psa 23:2) - He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters.

For the Christian, two of the most overlooked gifts of grace are peace and rest. Through the work of Christ on the cross, we can rest knowing we are at peace with Him and are being held secure by Him.

In Psa 23:2, the Psalmist centered on these two gifts. To be “led beside still waters” speaks of the peace that we are given when we follow His path to salvation and Godly service. To be “made to lie down in green pastures”, speaks of the rest we can enjoy knowing we are at peace with Him.

Do you know that your sins have been forgiven and you are in a right standing with God? This is the first step to being able to rest and be eternally protected in Him.

May the Lord bless each one of us as we “Think On These Things”.

Settled In Heaven Homepage: http://www.settledinheaven.org Settled In Heaven Email: settledinheaven@gmail.com SIH Salvation Blog Page: http://settledinheaven.wordpress.com/all-about-salvation/

Harmony: The Unity Of The Trinity In Salvation

2012-01-28T01:52:00.000-08:00

Have you ever heard a symphonic orchestra play a piece of classical music? What a beautiful music can be made when many individual musicians play together in unity! Of all the classics, one of the most recognizable is the 1812 Overture.

Take a listen here, notice all the differing parts being brought together to produce a wonderfully unified piece of music http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u2W1Wi2U9sQ

Many people working together harmoniously is a very important part of our life. In almost every aspect of our world around us we can see the results of unified effort. In some cases, it seems like a miracle when you have many individuals fulfilling a different set of roles being brought together to accomplish great things.

The Bible is filled with examples of Christians working together in unity for the cause of Christ. We are given both historical examples, and commands, encouraging the many to work together to proclaim the gospel and serve Him for His glory.

But the greatest Biblical example of unified effort is not found in the service of Christians for the Lord, it is found in the work of the Trinity. In our text we find a PERFECTLY unified effort on the part of the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit to graciously bring salvation to His chosen people.

THE SCRIPTURES:

Eph 1:3-14 (KJV) - 3) Blessed [be] the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly [places] in Christ: 4) According as he hath chosen us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before him in love: 5) Having predestinated us unto the adoption of children by Jesus Christ to himself, according to the good pleasure of his will, 6) To the praise of the glory of his grace, wherein he hath made us accepted in the beloved. 7) In whom we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of his grace; 8) Wherein he hath abounded toward us in all wisdom and prudence; 9) Having made known unto us the mystery of his will, according to his good pleasure which he hath purposed in himself: 10) That in the dispensation of the fulness of times he might gather together in one all things in Christ, both which are in heaven, and which are on earth; [even] in him: 11) In whom also we have obtained an inheritance, being predestinated according to the purpose of him who worketh all things after the counsel of his own will: 12) That we should be to the praise of his glory, who first trusted in Christ. 13) In whom ye also [trusted], after that ye heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation: in whom also after that ye believed, ye were sealed with that holy Spirit of promise, 14) Which is the earnest of our inheritance until the redemption of the purchased possession, unto the praise of his glory.

THE STUDY:

In our text, note how each person of the Trinity performs different roles in a unified effort to graciously save us from our sins. In Eph 1:3-14, we find the definitive roles of God the Father, God the Son and God the Holy Spirit explained in detail:

Vs 3-6 - The working of God the Father includes:

“chosen us in him” – God the Father selected us (the chosen, the elect) out of a sinful, spiritually dead world, so that we would live holy lives and guiltless lives. Therefore, we should serve Him from a heart of love and gratitude for all He has done for us.

2. “predestinated us” – God the Father predetermined that we would become an adopted member of His spiritual family. This adoption would take place based on the work of Christ which was performed in alignment with the desires of God the Father.

Why did the Father choose and predestinate us? So that He might receive all the praise, glory, and honor for the salvation that was to be given to us. We cannot claim that we deserve His salvation… we only chose to love Him and come to Him because He first loved us and drew us to Himself. (John 6:44, 1 John 4:19) Likewise, we were not adopted into His family because we deserved it, it was only based upon His work which resulted in us becoming joint-heirs with Christ. (Roms 8:13-14)

Vs 7-12 – The working of God the Son includes:

“redemption through His blood” – Christ paid the full ransom that was necessary to purchase us (the chosen) from the bondage of sin and deliver us to the Lordship of Christ. He paid this ransom through His blood that was shed on the cross. (1 Pet 1:18-19) Coming from this ransom payment is the forgiveness of our sins, past present and future… He paid for ALL our sins because we can not make the payment for ANY of our sins. (Hebs 10:10-13) He did all this for us, not because we deserved it, nor because we did any work to attain it, but Because He wanted to show undeserved favor to us.

The salvation that is given to us by grace is a display of His great wisdom and insight into the true nature of our needy, hopeless condition.

“made known… mystery of His will” – It is through the first coming of Christ that we have on display the mystery of salvation by grace to Jew and Gentile. When Christ came, He taught us (through His words and example) of God’s will for salvation to be given to man by grace. (Rom 16:25-27)

“gather together in one all things”- At the end of time, as eternity is ready to be ushered in, Christ will gather together all His redeemed into one glorious group of worshippers who will spend eternity with Him. This will be done based upon His work on the cross and the gracious giving of salvation to His people. (Col3:11)

“obtained an inheritance” - Based upon His death on the cross, those who are adopted into His family look forward to an inheritance. This inheritance involves many blessings, including living eternally with Him on a New Earth over which we will rule (much as Adam and Eve was given dominion over the garden of Eden).(Rev 21:-22:)

Why did Christ do all of this for us? So that He might be honored, glorified and praised, He accomplished what we could not accomplish. He worked salvation from our sins and acceptance by the Father.

Vs 13-14 – The working of God the Spirit includes:

“ye were sealed with the Holy Spirit” – We (the chosen) came to a saving knowledge of the Lord Jesus Christ only after we had received the gospel message. Receipt and belief in the gospel message is an absolute necessity for our salvation. (Rom 10:14-17) Following our turning to Christ in faith for salvation, we then were sealed with the Holy Spirit. To be sealed involves a spiritual mark identifying the new believer with Christ. (2 Tim 2:19) It also involves a preservation of the believer, securing and protecting Him eternally. (Eph 4:30)

“the earnest of our inheritance” – The Holy Spirit is the down payment of our future inheritance we will receive. (2 Cor 1:22) Once again, we see the security of the believer in view. The Spirit seals us until we receive our glorified bodies and enter eternity with the Lord. The glorification of the body is the last step in the redemption process and is described here as the “redemption of the purchased possession”. Praise the Lord, we are eternally secure in Him…. NO ONE (including ourselves) can take us out of His protecting hand of grace. (John 10:28-30, Rom 8:29-30)

Why did the Holy Spirit do all of this for us? So that He might receive the glory for His part in our salvation.

To summarize…. The work of the Trinity in our salvation is a harmonious work that encompasses every aspect of our salvation from beginning to end. EVERYTHING involved with our salvation, both His workings and our response to His workings, is an act of His grace.

Jonah, when he was engulfed in the whale's belly could do nothing to save himself. His only hope was that the Lord might intervene and sovereignly save him from his predicament. Jonah learned the lesson that his physical deliverance was only of God when he said, “salvation is of the Lord”. (Jonah 2:1-10)

As Christians, we should borrow a page from Jonah’s book. We should come humbly before Him and serve Him from a heart of gratitude proclaiming our spiritual “salvation is of the Lord”.

If you have never come to a saving faith in Christ: turn from your sins, come humbly before Him (realizing your inability to save yourself) and trust Him to meet all your spiritual needs. Realize your salvation is in His hands… He promises to pardon any that will come to Him. Rest assured, if you have come to Him (in repentance and faith) He will save you and you will be eternally secure in Him…

John 6:37-39 (KJV)

37) All that the Father giveth me shall come to me; and him that cometh to me I will in no wise cast out. 38) For I came down from heaven, not to do mine own will, but the will of him that sent me. 39) And this is the Father's will which hath sent me, that of all which he hath given me I should lose nothing, but should raise it up again at the last day.

If you have any questions concerning the way of salvation please feel free to visit or call a Bible teaching church in your area. They will be happy to speak to you about the Lord Jesus and the salvation He graciously gives.

Or, if you would rather, feel welcome to email me at settledinheaven@gmail.com. I’ll be more than happy to answer any question you may have.

Also, if you look at my blog page “How To Have A Relationship With God”. On this page, you will find several blog entries explaining the way of salvation.

Please visit the “Settled In Heaven Ministries” homepage – http://www.settledinheaven.org

My Main Blog “Settled In Heaven” (updated twice weekly) – http://settledinheaven.wordpress.com

The following are other places you can find “Settled In Heaven” blog (updated once per month): www.settledinheavenbibleblog.posterous.com www.settledinheavenblog.blogspot.com

To see this lesson taught on video please go to my Video Blog at http://www.youtube.com/settledinheaven

If you have any questions concerning this blog, or if you have a subject you would like discussed, please feel free to email me at settledinheaven@gmail.com. I will answer all emails via my blog, email, or both.

Take A Look At My Wife’s Artistic/Scriptural Devotion Blog http://alivewithchristart.blogspot.com

Follow my Squidoo Instructional Lens “Presenting God’s Grace” “The Solemn Obligation To Present the Doctrines of Grace to the Lost and Saved Alike” http://www.squidoo.com/presenting-gods-grace

May the Lord bless your study of His Word. Like God’s Word… may your soul’s salvation and your life’s faithfulness be “Settled in Heaven.”

SIH’s Think On These Things: Psa 23:1

2012-01-27T00:45:00.000-08:00

(Psa 23:1) A Psalm of David. The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want.

A shepherd’s care of his sheep includes feeding, protecting and leading them. When we understand that our Creator, the All-knowing Lord, is feeding us; and the All-powerful, Sovereign Lord is protecting us; and the Sinless, Loving Lord is leading us… what more could we want?

May the Lord bless each one of us as we “Think On These Things”.

Settled In Heaven Homepage: http://www.settledinheaven.org Settled In Heaven Email: settledinheaven@gmail.com SIH Salvation Blog Page: http://settledinheaven.wordpress.com/all-about-salvation/

SIH’s Think On These Things: Phil 4:23

2012-01-25T23:28:00.000-08:00

Php 4:23: The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. Amen. To the Philippians written from Rome, by Epaphroditus.

Throughout Paul’s writings, one of his most common requests is for his readers to be given God’s grace.  “Grace” is shown to us anytime God gives benefits to us that we do not deserve.

When we opposed God, He sent His Son to die so that we might be forgiven of our rebellion against Him. As fallen mankind, we deserved to be eternally separated from our Lord in never-ending torment. And yet, He has promised to us, an eternity in His presence.   What great graces He has shown to each and every one of His people!

If we began to list all of His graces, we could never complete the list. Beyond our salvation… our physical life, our families and other loved ones, our talents and abilities, the fruits of the Spirit, our material possessions, our EVERYTHING are gifts of His grace.

As we begin our day, let us center our attention on how good our Lord is to us. And then, with thankful hearts, let’s give Him our best knowing that we owe our all to Him!

May the Lord bless each one of us as we “Think On These Things”.

Settled In Heaven Homepage: http://www.settledinheaven.org                                Settled In Heaven Email: settledinheaven@gmail.com                                                  SIH Salvation Blog Page: http://settledinheaven.wordpress.com/all-about-salvation/

SIH’s Think On These Things: Phil 4:19

2012-01-25T00:47:00.000-08:00

Php 4:18-19:

But I have all, and abound: I am full, having received of Epaphroditus the things which were sent from you, an odour of a sweet smell, a sacrifice acceptable, wellpleasing to God. But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.

In Phil 4:19, we are told that our God has an unlimited amount of resources He can draw upon to meet the needs of His people. His blessings flow to us through the work of His Son, Jesus Christ. It is really important to note the context of verse 18. This promise is given immediately after sacrificial giving is discussed.

When we are faced with the opportunity to sacrifice for the cause of Christ, remember, He is able to meet the necessities of our lives. Give freely of our time, talents and finances to help others, and know He will supply our needs. (Luke 6:38)

May the Lord bless each one of us as we “Think On These Things”.

Settled In Heaven Web Homepage: http://www.settledinheaven.org Settled In Heaven Email: settledinheaven@gmail.com SIH Salvation Blog Page: http://settledinheaven.wordpress.com/all-about-salvation/

Versatile Blogger Award - Presented To My Lord and Savior Jesus Christ For His Glory

2012-01-24T04:07:00.000-08:00

Thank you Angela, (a blogger who loves our Lord and glorifies Him in her writings), at ( https://meetingintheclouds.wordpress.com/ ) for nominating Settled In Heaven, for the Versatile Blogger Award.

Angela's blog features a unique presentation of the principles of God's Word that can be understood and beneficial to the young and old alike. Personally, her blog has been a wonderful blessing to me and an inspiration for my ministry.

THE RULES TO FOLLOW FOR THE VERSATILE BLOGGER AWARD:

1. Add a picture of the award to your blog post.                                                                            2. Thank the blogger who nominated you and include a link to their blog.                               3. Share 7 random facts about yourself.                                                                                         4. Nominate other Bloggers and inform those they have been nominated.

Here are seven random facts about the role of my Lord in my life (in chronological order):

1. My Lord has graciously allowed me to live (and walk) on this earth for 53 years. After being born with multiple birth defects (congenital neuro-sacral defect) that normally cause early death or, at the least, paralysis of the lower limbs.

2. My Lord blessed me with a wonderful, supportive family (parents and 2 sisters) that sacrificed so much for me during my early years at home. I truly believe it was the Lord;'s use of their love and care for me that I am alive today.  As I grow older, I am coming to a greater realization of all they have done on my behalf.

3. The Lord opened my sin-blinded eyes, broke my sinful heart, turned me to Himself, and granted me faith in Him and made my future secure in Him.  I did not deserve His forgiveness, patience and love.  I owe Him my everything.

4. My Lord is blessing me everyday with a wonderful, Godly wife that is supportive of my ministries and loves me with an unconditional love. (Trust me, her love HAS to be unconditional to put up with me!) After being married for 12+ years to Eva, I still wake up every morning thanking the Lord for bringing us together.  Apart from the Lord Himself, she is my greatest source of encouragment, strength and care.

5. My Lord has also blessed me with a loving Mother-in-law that graciously puts up with me as well. To be honest, she breaks the typical "mother-in-law" stereotype. I actually enjoy spending time with her!

6. The Lord mercifully continues to work in my life, in spite of myself. He forgives my daily sins and He continues to show me truths from His Word. He graciously allows me to continue to preach, to write, and to study His Word. It is in His Word that I receive daily instructions for living my life on earth. I praise and honor Him for His Word. I truly do not know how I could live without it.

7. My Lord has blessed me with His peace. Although I do not know what tomorrow may hold, I know that He has me in His hands and He will never let me go... I am eternally secure in Him.

Here are the nominations for the Versatile Blogger Award in no particular order:

1. PJ at PJ's Prayerline - http://pjsprayerline.blogspot.com/

2. LoopyLoo at My Blog - http://loopyloo305.com/

3. Anthony at You Decide - http://wdednh.wordpress.com/

4. Paul Cheng at Certainty Of Drawings - http://certaintyofdrawings.blogspot.com

5. Joy at Live With Joy - http://www.2livewithjoy.com/

6. Eva at Alive With Christ Art - http://alivewithchristart.blogspot.com/

Congratulations to all the bloggers! Enjoy the honor.

Meditate On The Word Of God

2012-01-24T00:51:00.000-08:00

In our previous blog entry we looked at the Bible teachings about the role of mediation in the life of a Christian. One of the most important subjects we are to meditate upon is His Word.

In this blog posting, I would like to look at some of the benefits that can be attained when we meditate on the Word of the Lord.

THE SCRIPTURES:

Joshua 1:1-9

1) Now after the death of Moses the servant of the LORD it came to pass, that the LORD spake unto Joshua the son of Nun, Moses' minister, saying,2) Moses my servant is dead; now therefore arise, go over this Jordan, thou, and all this people, unto the land which I do give to them, [even] to the children of Israel.3) Every place that the sole of your foot shall tread upon, that have I given unto you, as I said unto Moses.4) From the wilderness and this Lebanon even unto the great river, the river Euphrates, all the land of the Hittites, and unto the great sea toward the going down of the sun, shall be your coast.5) There shall not any man be able to stand before thee all the days of thy life: as I was with Moses, [so] I will be with thee: I will not fail thee, nor forsake thee.6) Be strong and of a good courage: for unto this people shalt thou divide for an inheritance the land, which I sware unto their fathers to give them.7) Only be thou strong and very courageous, that thou mayest observe to do according to all the law, which Moses my servant commanded thee: turn not from it [to] the right hand or [to] the left, that thou mayest prosper whithersoever thou goest.8) This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou shalt meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein: for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success.9) Have not I commanded thee? Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the LORD thy God [is] with thee whithersoever thou goest.

THE STUDY:

Joshua 1:1-9 picks up following the 40 year travels of the nation ofIsraelin the wilderness following their deliverance from the Egyptian Empire. Moses, and the generation of unbelieving Israelites have died, leaving Joshua to now led a new generation, who by faith, had been prepared by God to take possession of the promised land.

In our text, as Joshua is being commissioned to lead the Israelites, we find the importance and the benefits of meditating on God’s Word…

Josh 1

1) Now after the death of Moses the servant of the LORD it came to pass, that the LORD spake unto Joshua the son of Nun, Moses' minister, saying, Moses my servant is dead; now therefore arise, go over this Jordan, thou, and all this people, unto the land which I do give to them, [even] to the children of Israel.

Here, we find Joshua being called to lead the children of Israel after the death of His mentor, Moses. The mission that Moses had failed to accomplish (the entrance of Israel into the promised land) was now Joshua’s undertaking.

3) Every place that the sole of your foot shall tread upon, that have I given unto you, as I said unto Moses. 4) From the wilderness and this Lebanon even unto the great river, the river Euphrates, all the land of the Hittites, and unto the great sea toward the going down of the sun, shall be your coast.

5) There shall not any man be able to stand before thee all the days of thy life: as I was with Moses, [so] I will be with thee: I will not fail thee, nor forsake thee.

Joshua would not only accept the responsibilities and mission that had been given to Moses, but He would also share in the blessings and victories as well.   Joshua, by faith would trust in the Lord’s promises of victory and deliverance of the promised land. The Lord graciously reassures Joshua that He would have the same relationship as He had with Moses. The Lord would protect Joshua, commune with Joshua, and never leave Joshua.

6) Be strong and of a good courage: for unto this people shalt thou divide for an inheritance the land, which I sware unto their fathers to give them.

7) Only be thou strong and very courageous, that thou mayest observe to do according to all the law, which Moses my servant commanded thee: turn not from it [to] the right hand or [to] the left, that thou mayest prosper whithersoever thou goest.

The Lord now calls Joshua to take hold of these challenges with faith knowing he is equipped and accompanied by the Lord. He desired Joshua to be empowered and stand strong in the face of his enemies, knowing that his God would bring him the victory.

8) This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou shalt meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein: for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success.

9) Have not I commanded thee? Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the LORD thy God [is] with thee whithersoever thou goest.

How could Joshua cultivate the type of faith that would be needed to led the Israelite nation into the many battles necessary to take the promised land? By meditation on the Word of God!   Through undistracted times of concentration and examination of His Word, Joshua would find the source of strength and faith he needed to meet the challenges of each new day. Here are some of the blessings Joshua would receive through meditation on the Word of God:

He would be able to retain the Word in his life. This would allow him to make the Godly choices of living and ministering through both his words (shalt not depart out of thy mouth) and his actions (thou mayest observe to do).

He would experience spiritual prosperity (make they way prosperous) and success (have good success) in completing God’s will for his life

He would be spiritually strengthened (be strong) to oppose fleshly and worldly temptations.

He would be courageous and not fearful (of good courage, be not afraid), thinking about his great Lord and the promises the Lord gave to him.

He would have spiritual clarity in his thinking and understanding (be not dismayed). He would be able to see the trials of each day through the filter of God’s word. He would see each days events through the eyes of the Lord.

In general, through meditation on the Word, Joshua would receive the appropriate equipment he needed to fulfill his God-given responsibilities to lead Israel.

PRACTICAL APPLICATION:

For those who are saved…

A Christian’s need to meditate on His Word cannot be overestimated. To remain faithful in the midst of a world that is opposed to the Lord, we must retain our intimacy with the Lord thru His Word. Our minds should always be upon Him and His desires for us…

Ps 119:14-16 (KJV)

14) I have rejoiced in the way of thy testimonies, as [much as] in all riches.15) I will meditate in thy precepts, and have respect unto thy ways.16) I will delight myself in thy statutes: I will not forget thy word.

For those who have never received His gracious salvation into our lives…

By meditating on His Word and His intervention, you too can become acquainted with His desires. The first desire for your life is to recognize your need of salvation, turn from your sins and come trusting in Him as your Saviour and accepting Him as Lord of your life.

John 6:32-48 (KJV)

32) Then Jesus said unto them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Moses gave you not that bread from heaven; but my Father giveth you the true bread from heaven. 33) For the bread of God is he which cometh down from heaven, and giveth life unto the world. 34) Then said they unto him, Lord, evermore give us this bread. 35) And Jesus said unto them, I am the bread of life: he that cometh to me shall never hunger; and he that believeth on me shall never thirst. 36) But I said unto you, That ye also have seen me, and believe not. 37) All that the Father giveth me shall come to me; and him that cometh to me I will in no wise cast out. 38) For I came down from heaven, not to do mine own will, but the will of him that sent me. 39) And this is the Father's will which hath sent me, that of all which he hath given me I should lose nothing, but should raise it up again at the last day. 40) And this is the will of him that sent me, that every one which seeth the Son, and believeth on him, may have everlasting life: and I will raise him up at the last day. 41) The Jews then murmured at him, because he said, I am the bread which came down from heaven. 42) And they said, Is not this Jesus, the son of Joseph, whose father and mother we know? how is it then that he saith, I came down from heaven? 43) Jesus therefore answered and said unto them, Murmur not among yourselves. 44) No man can come to me, except the Father which hath sent me draw him: and I will raise him up at the last day.45) It is written in the prophets, And they shall be all taught of God. Every man therefore that hath heard, and hath learned of the Father, cometh unto me. 46) Not that any man hath seen the Father, save he which is of God, he hath seen the Father. 47) Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that believeth on me hath everlasting life. 48) I am that bread of life.

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SIH’s Think On These Things: Phil 4:18

2012-01-22T22:38:00.000-08:00

Phil 4:18 (KJV)

18) But I have all, and abound: I am full, having received of Epaphroditus the things [which were sent] from you, an odour of a sweet smell, a sacrifice acceptable, wellpleasing to God.

The Apostle Paul, when referring to the sacrificial giving of the church at Phillippi, described the gifts as sacrifices with which God was well-pleased. Every time that we, as Christians, sacrifice for the cause of Christ our God is well-pleased with us. The sacrifices we make do not go unnoticed by God. When we give of ourselves we are simply “laying up in store” for our eternal home. (1 Tim 6:19) Our God turns our sacrificial giving into our eternal gain!

May the Lord bless each one of us as we “Think On These Things”.

Settled In Heaven Web Homepage: http://www.settledinheaven.org Settled In Heaven Email: settledinheaven@gmail.com SIH Salvation Blog Page: http://settledinheaven.wordpress.com/all-about-salvation/

SIH’s Think On These Things: Phil 4:14

2012-01-22T00:03:00.000-08:00

Phil 4:14 (KJV) - 14) Notwithstanding ye have well done, that ye did communicate with my affliction.

Here, we find Paul commending the church at Phillippi for helping him during a time of affliction. In the times in which we live financial, emotional, medical and, most importantly, spiritual needs abound. Are we aware of those facing hardship around us? Are we willing to step up and help those in need? Let’s all be “on the lookout” for opportunities to be a blessing to others, and to show Christ’s love to the world around us.

May the Lord bless each one of us as we “Think On These Things”.

Settled In Heaven Web Homepage: http://www.settledinheaven.org Settled In Heaven Email: settledinheaven@gmail.com SIH Salvation Blog Page: http://settledinheaven.wordpress.com/all-about-salvation/

The Benefits and Dangers of Meditation

2012-01-21T00:25:00.000-08:00

It seems as if the practice of meditation is becoming more popular with the passing of each generation. And no wonder, the claimed benefits of habitual meditation are far reaching. They range from alleviating stress to helping to break smoking or drinking habits and to help reduce pain. It is claimed that “Meditation is wonderful in that it’s free, always available, and amazingly effective in short-term stress reduction and long-term health.” With claims such as these, is it any wonder that the number of those who practice meditation is growing throughout the world?

Mediation is described as:

“Meditation involves sitting in a relaxed position and clearing your mind.”

“Meditation encompasses a variety of practices that are somewhat different, while holding to the basic principles of consideration and quiet thought to bring about a state of rumination.

“Meditation is not a technique but a way of life. Meditation means 'a cessation of the thought process' . It describes a state of consciousness, when the mind is free of scattered thoughts and various patterns . The observer (one who is doing meditation) realizes that all the activity of the mind is reduced to one.”

To view the source of the preceding quotes, the results of meditation and the descriptions of meditation please see: http://stress.about.com/od/tensiontamers/p/profilemeditati.htm; http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Meditation; http://www.project-meditation.org/what_is_meditation.html ;

http://www.healthandyoga.com/html/meditation.html

Based upon the above, it seems as if meditation, in some cases, involves “clearing the mind’, while in other cases, it is said to centered on one centralized point of attention, while excluding “scattered thoughts and various patterns”. There seems to be lacking a uniform, consistent definition for meditation.

Is meditation mentioned in the Bible? If so, what is the Bible teaching on meditation?

THE SCRIPTURES:

Gen 24:63 - 63) And Isaac went out to meditate in the field at the eventide: and he lifted up his eyes, and saw, and, behold, the camels [were] coming.

Josh 1:8 (KJV) - 8) This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou shalt meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein: for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success.

Ps 1:2 (KJV) - 2) But his delight [is] in the law of the LORD; and in his law doth he meditate day and night.

Ps 5:1 (KJV) - 1) To the chief Musician upon Nehiloth, A Psalm of David. Give ear to my words, O LORD, consider my meditation.

Ps 19:14 (KJV) - 14) Let the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in thy sight, O LORD, my strength, and my redeemer.

Ps 49:3 (KJV) - 3) My mouth shall speak of wisdom; and the meditation of my heart [shall be] of understanding.

Ps 63:6 (KJV) - 6) When I remember thee upon my bed, [and] meditate on thee in the [night] watches.

Ps 77:12 (KJV) - 12) I will meditate also of all thy work, and talk of thy doings.

Ps 104:34 (KJV) - 34) My meditation of him shall be sweet: I will be glad in the LORD.

Ps 119:15 (KJV) - 15) I will meditate in thy precepts, and have respect unto thy ways.

Ps 119:23 (KJV) - 23) Princes also did sit [and] speak against me: [but] thy servant did meditate in thy statutes.

Ps 119:48 (KJV) - 48) My hands also will I lift up unto thy commandments, which I have loved; and I will meditate in thy statutes.

Ps 119:78 (KJV) - 78) Let the proud be ashamed; for they dealt perversely with me without a cause: [but] I will meditate in thy precepts.

Ps 119:97 (KJV) - 97) MEM. O how love I thy law! it [is] my meditation all the day.

Ps 119:99 (KJV) - 99) I have more understanding than all my teachers: for thy testimonies [are] my meditation.

Ps 119:148 (KJV) - 148) Mine eyes prevent the [night] watches, that I might meditate in thy word.

Ps 143:5 (KJV) - 5) I remember the days of old; I meditate on all thy works; I muse on the work of thy hands.

Isa 33:18 (KJV) - 18) Thine heart shall meditate terror. Where [is] the scribe? where [is] the receiver? where [is] he that counted the towers?

Mark 13:11 (KJV) - 11) But when they shall lead [you], and deliver you up, take no thought beforehand what ye shall speak, neither do ye premeditate: but whatsoever shall be given you in that hour, that speak ye: for it is not ye that speak, but the Holy Ghost.

Luke 21:14 (KJV)- 14) Settle [it] therefore in your hearts, not to meditate before what ye shall answer:

1Tim 4:10-15 (KJV) - 10) For therefore we both labour and suffer reproach, because we trust in the living God, who is the Saviour of all men, specially of those that believe. 11) These things command and teach. 12) Let no man despise thy youth; but be thou an example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity. 13) Till I come, give attendance to reading, to exhortation, to doctrine. 14) Neglect not the gift that is in thee, which was given thee by prophecy, with the laying on of the hands of the presbytery.15) Meditate upon these things; give thyself wholly to them; that thy profiting may appear to all.

THE STUDY:

In the Old Testment, the word “meditate” or “meditation” is translated from three different words.

In Genesis 24:63 the Hebrew word means “to muse” or “to be absorbed in thought, to turn over in the mind”

In all the Psalm 119 references to “meditate” the Hebrew word means “to speak to yourself, to think deeply and thoroughly”

In all the other OT references a different Hebrew word with much the same meaning is used “to mutter, to ponder”

In all the New Testament references, the word “meditate” is translated from a Greek word that means “to revolve in the mind, to look over from every angle”.

What does the definitions for meditate teach us about Biblical meditation?:

In EVERY case, to meditate Biblically involves having our mind thinking about something. NEVER does the Lord tell us to “empty our mind” or “clear your mind” or “cease your mental processes”. I believe this is a point that needs emphasis… To empty our minds of every thought is a very dangerous practice. The dark (sinful, demonic) powers of this world seek to inhabit lives that are “emptied” (Matt 12:43-45) I believe, by emptying one’s mind opens up an opportunity for Satanic oppression of the emptied mind.

Biblical mediation involves active mental concentration and examination. If you notice in our definitions some of the terms used are “to turn over in the mind”, “to think deeply and thoroughly”, “to ponder, and to look over at every angle”. None of these words implies a state of rest or cessation of the minds activities.

To summarize our definition study we find that to meditate in a God honoring, Scriptural way involves a mind actively examining and thinking. NEVER does the Lord advocate a empty or inactive mind. This type of inactivity, very possibly, can open the door to demonic influence.

Now, let’s continue our study by answering the question what subjects should a Christian be meditating about?

“To meditate” or “meditation” is mentioned in the Bible 21 times… Gen 24:63; Josh 1:8; Psa 1:2, 5:1, 19:14, 49:3, 63:6, 77:12, 104:34, Psa 119:15, 23, 46, 78, 97, 99, 148, 143:5; Isa 33:18; Mark 13:11; Luke 21:14; 1 Tim 4:15.

If we study these references, in their context we find the following:

Subject of meditation not described: Gen 24:63

(Although we are not told, Isaac was thinking about something! Based upon the word used for meditation he was “absorbed in thought” over some subject, we are simply not told what that subject is.)

Subject of meditation Word of God: Josh 1:8, Psa 1:2, Psa 119:15, 23, 46, 78, 97, 99, 148

Subject of meditation burdens on heart seeking His mercy: Psa 5:1

Subject of meditation desires of heart being acceptable to the Lord: Psa 19:14,

Subject of meditation spiritual understanding: Psa 49:3

Subject of meditation The Lord and His works: Psa 63:6, Psa 77:12, Psa 104:34, Psa 143:5

Subject of meditation terror for disobedient facing Divine judgment: Isa 33:18

Subject of mediation the gospel message and need for service to Him: 1 Tim 4:10-15

Not to be a subject of meditation: Concern, worry about answering opponents of Lord : Mark 13:11, Luke 21:14

To summarize the above:

As faithful children… we are to be thinking about Our Heavenly Father, His works, and His Word. They should always be on our minds. We should seek quiet times when uninterrupted, we can solely place our minds and hearts on Him.

As burdened pilgrims on earth… we should be taking quiet times to concentrate on turning our trials over to Him seeking His presence, mercy and strength.

As faithful servants… we should be meditating on our desires, making sure they are pleasing to Him; we should be examining the understanding He has given to us to enable us to serve Him in greater ways. Finally, our meditations should also involve an examination of our lives making sure we are leading lives of holiness and separation to His work.

As witnesses of His grace in salvation,... we are to always have the gospel message of grace upon our hearts, remembering what He has done for us and our need to share it with others. We are to lay aside any worry about how to answer those who oppose our message.

As those who have never experienced God’s gracious salvation but are continuing to face His wrath… examine your current condition and allow terror to fill your mind, as you continue to face judgment from Almighty God. Turn to Him and trust in Him, realizing that the Lord is abundantly gracious, slow to anger and of great mercy.

PRACTICAL APPLICATION:

The Lord summarize what our daily meditations should be based upon….

May the Lord bless our times of Godly meditation when we turn our minds to these things….

Phil 4:4-9 (KJV)

4) Rejoice in the Lord alway: [and] again I say, Rejoice.

5) Let your moderation be known unto all men. The Lord [is] at hand.

6) Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.

7) And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.

8) Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things [are] honest, whatsoever things [are] just, whatsoever things [are] pure, whatsoever things [are] lovely, whatsoever things [are] of good report; if [there be] any virtue, and if [there be] any praise, think on these things.

9) Those things, which ye have both learned, and received, and heard, and seen in me, do: and the God of peace shall be with you.

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SIH’s Think On These Things: Phil 4:11-13

2012-01-20T04:35:00.000-08:00

Phil 4:11-13 (KJV)

11) Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, [therewith] to be content. 12) I know both how to be abased, and I know how to abound: every where and in all things I am instructed both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need. 13) I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.

In our text, we find the very well-known phrase “I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me”. This is one of the most comforting and encouraging promises given to Christians.

It is interesting to note the context in which Paul related this truth to us. It was spoken in the context of contentment. How wonderful it is to know that the Lord will give His people the ability to be content no matter what condition we might find ourselves. The next time we find ourselves desiring that which we cannot have, let’s remember that “God’s grace is sufficient” is give us contentment, even during times of want.

May the Lord bless each one of us as we “Think On These Things”.

Settled In Heaven Web Homepage: http://www.settledinheaven.org Settled In Heaven Email: settledinheaven@gmail.com SIH Salvation Blog Page: http://settledinheaven.wordpress.com/all-about-salvation/

SIH’s Think On These Things: Phil 4:8-9

2012-01-19T11:40:00.000-08:00

Phil 4:8-9 (KJV) 8) Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things [are] honest, whatsoever things [are] just, whatsoever things [are] pure, whatsoever things [are] lovely, whatsoever things [are] of good report; if [there be] any virtue, and if [there be] any praise, think on these things. 9) Those things, which ye have both learned, and received, and heard, and seen in me, do: and the God of peace shall be with you.

In our text, our Lord graciously reminds us of the need to control our thought life. When we keep our minds on the things of God, we will find that the peace we experience will increase as we draw closer to Him. Let’s make a renewed effort to keep the things of God on our hearts and minds today.

To help remind us of the importance of thinking on Him daily, I’m beginning this new “Think On These Things” series of daily blog postings. Please be in prayer for this new ministry as well as the other “Settled In Heaven” ministries.

May the Lord bless each one of us as we “Think On These Things”.

Settled In Heaven Web Homepage: http://www.settledinheaven.org Settled In Heaven Email: settledinheaven@gmail.com SIH Salvation Blog Page: http://settledinheaven.wordpress.com/all-about-salvation/

Choosing The Right Candidate For President

2012-01-18T13:18:00.000-08:00

The Role of Our Government

2012-01-18T08:53:00.000-08:00

Over the past several months our country has been flooded with news reports about the upcoming Presidential elections. During this time the airwaves have been endlessly comparing the political parties’, and individual candidate’s, views on the roles and responsibilities of our government. This is one of the most significant issues at the center of the upcoming elections.

Democrats and Republicans differ on their views concerning how to help the poor, how to intervene in the affairs of foreign governments, defining the role of national governments versus state governments, and how to fund the government. The list goes on and on.

If we think about it, what lies at the core of the Republican candidates differences? It involves what they believe our government should, or should not, be doing. Mitt Romney, Ron Paul, Rick Santorum, Newt Gingrich, Jon Huntsman, Herman Cain and Michelle Bachmann all had a slightly different view on what should be the government’s role in our lives. Should the government intervene in the affairs of foreign nations? If so, in what way? Should government help the poor? If so, how? Should government have a say in the personal lives of others? If so, in what areas?

Who can help us come to an understanding of the proper role of government? Our Lord. After all, we need to go to the One that originally created and authorized human governments to exist and function (Rom 13:1, Col 1:16, 1 Pet 3:22) to find out what role He had intended for governments.

THE SCRIPTURES:

Ps 72:1-14 (KJV)
1) [A Psalm] for Solomon. Give the king thy judgments, O God, and thy righteousness unto the king's son.
2) He shall judge thy people with righteousness, and thy poor with judgment.
3) The mountains shall bring peace to the people, and the little hills, by righteousness.
4) He shall judge the poor of the people, he shall save the children of the needy, and shall break in pieces the oppressor.
5) They shall fear thee as long as the sun and moon endure, throughout all generations.
6) He shall come down like rain upon the mown grass: as showers [that] water the earth.
7) In his days shall the righteous flourish; and abundance of peace so long as the moon endureth.
8) He shall have dominion also from sea to sea, and from the river unto the ends of the earth.
9) They that dwell in the wilderness shall bow before him; and his enemies shall lick the dust.
10) The kings of Tarshish and of the isles shall bring presents: the kings of Sheba and Seba shall offer gifts.
11) Yea, all kings shall fall down before him: all nations shall serve him.
12) For he shall deliver the needy when he crieth; the poor also, and [him] that hath no helper.
13) He shall spare the poor and needy, and shall save the souls of the needy.
14) He shall redeem their soul from deceit and violence: and precious shall their blood be in his sight.

Rom 13:1-7; 1Tim 2:1-3; 1Pet 2:13-17

THE STUDY:

In the Bible, we find many texts that help us to understand the God-given authority of human government. In our study today, we will be concentrating on Psa 72:1-14 which is one of the four major passages that stress the government’s God given role: Psa 72:1-14, Rom 13:1-7, 1 Tim 2:1-3, and 1 Pet 2:13-17.

In Psalm 72:1-14, we read of some of the responsibilities Solomon would fulfill as King…

Before we are given a list of the responsibilities of government, we are reminded of the need for the Lord’s intervention in our government and in the lives of our politicians…

“1) [A Psalm] for Solomon. Give the king thy judgments, O God, and thy righteousness unto the king's son.”

Before Solomon could lead his nation in a way pleasing to the Lord, Solomon must be taught and graced by God. How true this is for the politicians of today… how can we expect our nation to be led in the paths laid by God, if our candidates have no knowledge of God’s will for government? How can we expect fallen, sinful men to properly lead our nation when the candidates are not relying on God’s wisdom and strength?

We now begin to look at the role of government as sanctioned by God:

1. a government is to make lawful, moral, decisions.

“2) He shall judge thy people with righteousness,”

2. a government is to uphold the rights of the poor, exercise compassion toward and help to meet the needs of those who cannot help themselves.

“3) He shall judge ….thy poor with judgment.”
“4) He shall judge the poor of the people, he shall save the children of the needy,”
“12-13) For he shall deliver the needy when he crieth; the poor also, and [him] that hath no helper. He shall spare the poor and needy, and shall save the souls of the needy.”

3. a government is to be a blessing to its people, working for their growth and advancement

“6 ) He shall come down like rain upon the mown grass: as showers [that] water the earth.”
(Roms 13:4 –“For he is the minister of God to thee for good.”)

4. a government is to support, and reward, the cause of those who align themselves with God’s laws

“7) In his days shall the righteous flourish;”
(Rom 13:3 - “do that which is good, and thou shalt have praise of the same:”)

5. a government is to work for peace among it’s people and other nations around them

“7) and abundance of peace so long as the moon endureth.”
(1 Tim 2:1-3 – “…supplications, prayers, intercessions, [and] giving of thanks, be made…For kings, and [for] all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty.”)

6. a government is to work to bring an end to the abuse of its people (especially the defenseless) through the punishment of evildoers.

“4) And shall break in pieces the oppressor.”
“14) He shall redeem their soul from deceit and violence: and precious shall their blood be in his sight.”
(Roms 13:3-5 – “For rulers are not a terror to good works, but to the evil. Wilt thou then not be afraid of the power?... 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.”)
(1Pet 2:13-14 – “Submit yourselves to every ordinance of man… as unto them that are sent by him for the punishment of evildoers, and for the praise of them that do well.)

PRACTICAL APPLICATION:

For those who have trusted in Christ.

The need for us, as Christians, to let our voices be heard in the election process cannot be overemphasized. We should be voting for those who we believe best understand the role of government from God’s perspective. But also, we should be voting for those we believe will look to the Lord for guidance and strength as they attempt to lead our country in these troublesome days.

For those who have never trusted in Christ.

We are all confronted with the declining condition of our country. As our nation continues to turn from the Lord, and the principles found in His Word, our country’s condition will only get worse. For our country to turn around both the leaders and the common citizen must turn back to the Lord and seek to obey His commands. (2 Chron 7:14, Isa 55:6-7)

The most first thing you can do to please the Lord and fulfill His will for your life is to recognize your sinful condition and your need of salvation. Then turn from your sin, trust in Him as your Savior and seek to follow Him with your life.

If you have any questions concerning the way of salvation please feel free to visit or call a Bible teaching church in your area. They will be happy to speak to you about the Lord Jesus and the salvation He graciously gives.

Or, if you would rather, feel welcome to email me at settledinheaven@gmail.com. I’ll be more than happy to answer any question you may have.

Also, if you look at my blog page “How To Have A Relationship With God”. On this page you will find several blog entries explaining the way of salvation.

Please visit the “Settled In Heaven Ministries” homepage –
http://www.settledinheaven.org

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If you have any questions concerning this blog, or if you have a subject you would like discussed, please feel free to email me at settledinheaven@gmail.com. I will answer all emails via my blog, email, or both.

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May the Lord bless your study of His Word. Like God’s Word… may your soul’s salvation and your life’s faithfulness be “Settled in Heaven.”

Abortion: When Does Life Begin In The Womb?

2012-01-14T02:48:00.000-08:00

(Author’s Note: Due to the length of this Bible study, I have explained many of the Scripture verses in a very general, basic way. If you have any questions concerning this Bible Study please feel free to contact me at settledinheaven@gmail.com. I will be answer any emails promptly.)

With the presidential debates taking place, I thought it would be a good time to review what the Bible teaches about some of the moral societal issues of today. At the forefront of these issues are abortion and homosexuality (and same sex unions). In today’s blog, I would like to center our attention on abortion. In a later blog entry we will look at homosexuality and same sex-marriages.

Let’s begin today’s look at the Scriptural teachings on abortion.

THE SCRIPTURES:

Exod 20:13 (KJV) Thou shalt not kill.

Matt 19:18 (KJV) 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,

Rom 13:9 (KJV) For this, Thou shalt not commit adultery, Thou shalt not kill, Thou shalt not steal, Thou shalt not bear false witness, Thou shalt not covet; and if [there be] any other commandment, it is briefly comprehended in this saying, namely, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.

Rev 22:14-15 (KJV) Blessed [are] they that do his commandments, that they may have right to the tree of life, and may enter in through the gates into the city. For without [are] dogs, and sorcerers, and whoremongers, and murderers, and idolaters, and whosoever loveth and maketh a lie.

Matt 18 (KJV) At the same time came the disciples unto Jesus, saying, Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven? And Jesus called a little child unto him, and set him in the midst of them, And said, Verily I say unto you, Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven. Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child, the same is greatest in the kingdom of heaven. And whoso shall receive one such little child in my name receiveth me. But whoso shall offend one of these little ones which believe in me, it were better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and [that] he were drowned in the depth of the sea.

Matt 19:13-15 (KJV) Then were there brought unto him little children, that he should put [his] hands on them, and pray: and the disciples rebuked them. But Jesus said, Suffer little children, and forbid them not, to come unto me: for of such is the kingdom of heaven. And he laid [his] hands on them, and departed thence.

Gen 25:22-23 (KJV) And the children struggled together within her; and she said, If [it be] so, why [am] I thus? And she went to enquire of the LORD. And the LORD said unto her, Two nations [are] in thy womb, and two manner of people shall be separated from thy bowels; and [the one] people shall be stronger than [the other] people; and the elder shall serve the younger.

Luke 1:41 (KJV) And it came to pass, that, when Elisabeth heard the salutation of Mary, the babe leaped in her womb; and Elisabeth was filled with the Holy Ghost:

Luke 2:12-16 (KJV) And this [shall be] a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger. And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men. And it came to pass, as the angels were gone away from them into heaven, the shepherds said one to another, Let us now go even unto Bethlehem, and see this thing which is come to pass, which the Lord hath made known unto us. And they came with haste, and found Mary, and Joseph, and the babe lying in a manger.

Job 3:3 (KJV) Let the day perish wherein I was born, and the night [in which] it was said, There is a man child conceived.

Luke 1:36 (KJV) And, behold, thy cousin Elisabeth, she hath also conceived a son in her old age: and this is the sixth month with her, who was called barren.

Num 12:12 (KJV) Let her not be as one dead, of whom the flesh is half consumed when he cometh out of his mother's womb.

Luke 1:43 (KJV) And whence [is] this to me, that the mother of my Lord should come to me?

Ps 51:5 (KJV) Behold, I was shapen in iniquity; and in sin did my mother conceive me.

Job 31:13-15 (KJV) If I did despise the cause of my manservant or of my maidservant, when they contended with me; What then shall I do when God riseth up? and when he visiteth, what shall I answer him? Did not he that made me in the womb make him? and did not one fashion us in the womb?

Ps 139:13 (KJV) For thou hast possessed my reins: thou hast covered me in my mother's womb.

Ps 22:9-10 (KJV) But thou [art] he that took me out of the womb: thou didst make me hope [when I was] upon my mother's breasts. I was cast upon thee from the womb: thou [art] my God from my mother's belly.

Gal 1:15 (KJV) But when it pleased God, who separated me from my mother's womb, and called [me] by his grace,

Jer 1:4-5 (KJV) Then the word of the LORD came unto me, saying, Before I formed thee in the belly I knew thee; and before thou camest forth out of the womb I sanctified thee, [and] I ordained thee a prophet unto the nations.

Isa 49:1 (KJV) Listen, O isles, unto me; and hearken, ye people, from far; The LORD hath called me from the womb; from the bowels of my mother hath he made mention of my name.

Luke 1:15 (KJV) For he shall be great in the sight of the Lord, and shall drink neither wine nor strong drink; and he shall be filled with the Holy Ghost, even from his mother's womb.

Psa 139:14-16 I will praise thee; for I am fearfully [and] wonderfully made: marvellous [are] thy works; and [that] my soul knoweth right well. My substance was not hid from thee, when I was made in secret, [and] curiously wrought in the lowest parts of the earth. Thine eyes did see my substance, yet being unperfect; and in thy book all [my members] were written, [which] in continuance were fashioned, when [as yet there was] none of them.

Deut 22:25-27 (KJV) But if a man find a betrothed damsel in the field, and the man force her, and lie with her: then the man only that lay with her shall die: But unto the damsel thou shalt do nothing; [there is] in the damsel no sin [worthy] of death: for as when a man riseth against his neighbour, and slayeth him, even so [is] this matter: For he found her in the field, [and] the betrothed damsel cried, and [there was] none to save her.

Lev 20:11-17 (KJV) And the man that lieth with his father's wife hath uncovered his father's nakedness: both of them shall surely be put to death; their blood [shall be] upon them. And if a man lie with his daughter in law, both of them shall surely be put to death: they have wrought confusion; their blood [shall be] upon them…. And if a man take a wife and her mother, it [is] wickedness: they shall be burnt with fire, both he and they; that there be no wickedness among you… And if a man shall take his sister, his father's daughter, or his mother's daughter, and see her nakedness, and she see his nakedness; it [is] a wicked thing; and they shall be cut off in the sight of their people: he hath uncovered his sister's nakedness; he shall bear his iniquity.

Ezek 18:20 (KJV) The soul that sinneth, it shall die. The son shall not bear the iniquity of the father, neither shall the father bear the iniquity of the son: the righteousness of the righteous shall be upon him, and the wickedness of the wicked shall be upon him.

Rom 12:17-21 (KJV) Recompense to no man evil for evil. Provide things honest in the sight of all men. If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men. Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but [rather] give place unto wrath: for it is written, Vengeance [is] mine; I will repay, saith the Lord. Therefore if thine enemy hunger, feed him; if he thirst, give him drink: for in so doing thou shalt heap coals of fire on his head. Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good.

Titus 2:4 (KJV) That they may teach the young women to be sober, to love their husbands, to love their children,

1Cor 13:4-7 (KJV) Charity suffereth long, [and] is kind; charity envieth not; charity vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up, Doth not behave itself unseemly, seeketh not her own, is not easily provoked, thinketh no evil; Rejoiceth not in iniquity, but rejoiceth in the truth; Beareth all things, believeth all things, hopeth all things, endureth all things.

John 15:13 (KJV) Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.

Matt 23:37 (KJV) O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, [thou] that killest the prophets, and stonest them which are sent unto thee, how often would I have gathered thy children together, even as a hen gathereth her chickens under [her] wings, and ye would not!

Exod 21:22-23 (KJV) 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,

THE STUDY:

I. The Taking of Innocent Life Is Murder

Most, if not all of us, understand that the taking of innocent life is sinful. Both in the Old and New Testaments, we find this teaching clearly on display…

“Thou shalt not kill” is not only a part of the Old Testament law (Ex 20:13), but it is also reaffirmed by Christ Himself in the New Testament (Matt 19:18). Also, we find the Apostle Paul repeating the murder prohibition in Romans 13:9. Finally, we see clearly that those who are found guilty of the sin of murder will be restricted from heaven and eternally judged for their sin (Rev 22:14-15) The Bible is clear… murder is a sin in God’s eyes punishable by eternal death.

The Lord Jesus also made it plain that young children were to have special protection, attention and care given to them (Matt 18:1-6, Matt 19:13-15).

In our study of abortion, if we accept that the taking of innocent life is sinful, the question then becomes… does a fetus, in its mother’s womb possess life? If so, at what point does its life come into existence? At whatever point the fetus possesses life, the abortion procedure becomes murder. This is the issue that we are going to examine in this study.

II. A fetus in the womb is considered a child and the pregnant woman is considered the child’s mother.

In Genesis 25:22-23, twins in their mother’s womb are given the title “children”. The Hebrew word for children is Ben…. It is the common word used to describe children throughout the OT. In Luke 1:41, John the Baptist while yet in his mother’s womb is described as “babe”. The Greek word for babe is the word brephos…. This same Grk word is used in Luke 2:12-16 to describe Christ, the babe that was wrapped in swaddling clothes lying in the manger in Bethlehem.

In both of the above examples, we can clearly see that based upon vocabulary usage, the Bible does not differentiate between a babe in its mother’s womb and a babe that has been born into this world.

You can also see this principle in Job 3:3 where we are told that it was a “man child” that was conceived in his mother’s womb. Luke 1:36 tells us that it was a “son” that was conceived.

In Numbers 12:12 – we find that even in the case of a woman who has given birth to a still born child. She is still considered a mother, because her child had possessed life while the baby was within her womb.   This same principle is presented in Luke 1:43 when a pregnant Mary is described as the “mother of my Lord”

III. A fetus in the womb is considered a distinct human being with whom the Lord actively intervenes.

In Psa 51:5 the psalmist describes himself, at conception, as “I” and “me”. Pointing to his personhood beginning with his conception, throughout his mother’s pregnancy and birth and then throughout his life outside the womb. This can also be seen in Job 31:13-15, where Job describes himself in the womb as “I”, “me” and “us”. In Psa 139:13, the psalmist says “thou hast covered me in my mother’s womb”. Once again, we can see that during his time in his mother’s womb, he was an individual human ( “me”) that was simply “covered” in the womb.

In Psalm 22:9-10 we are told that God was in control of the conception, formation and birth of the child. This is proof that He was the child’s God even from his mother’s womb.

The Apostle Paul was called by God to his ministry while he was yet in his mother’s womb in Gal 1:15. The same holds true for Jeremiah (Jer 1:4-5), Isaiah (Isa 49:1), and John The Baptist (Luke 1:15).

IV.  When does life begin in the womb?

In Psa 139:14-16, we find the development of the fetus is in view. Please notice the 2 stages of development include….

1. the initial formation of genetic material (at conception when the seed meets the egg) “in thy book all were written… when as yet there was none of them.”

2. the continual forming of the body (based upon the dictates of the genetic material) “in continuance was fashioned” The continual forming and growth of the baby from coneption forward is a sign of the baby possessing life from conception forward.

In other words, the Lord made the Psalmist “in secret” (ie in his mother’s womb – “lowest parts of the earth”) .   When the Lord first made the Psalmist, he was “yet unperfect” (undeveloped) . However, even though he was undeveloped, all the genetic instructions (“in thy book all my members were written”) were present .   The baby’s body, organs etc, were not physically in existence (“as yet when there was none of them”) although they were in existence in the genetic code.

The baby was in existance and an individual human being from conception. As the baby grows and develops (following the genetic instructions that are received at conception) the life within the fertilized egg is clearly seen.

Here, we find the answer to the question, “When does the baby receive life while in the womb?” The Bible makes it plain that the genetic makeup of the child was existing from the very beginning of its formation. This same genetic code is proof that the child is not simply a part of the mothers’ body. On a genetic level the baby existed, in it's entirety from conception. Add to that the principle of growth and development immediately beginning at conception and we have a clear answer to our question. The baby's life began at conception.... the baby existed in it's entirety at conception and exhibited growth and development from that point forward.

V. What About Rape or Incest… Is Abortion Allowed In These Cases?

Both Rape and Incest are horrible sins in the eyes of the Lord (Lev 20:11-17, Deut 22:25-27). Any victim of these brutal acts should be treated with the greatest amount of concern, compassion and aid. As Christians, we have the responsibility to help these victims in any way possible.

In Eze 18:20 we find a basic Biblical principle that I believe applies in these cases…. “the son shall bot bear the iniquity of father”… Although a pregnancy may have come about due to the heinous sinful act of another, the child should not be punished for the sin of their father. In other words, taking the child’s life, simply because the child was conceived in a sinful manner (rape, incest) cannot be defended.

Please keep mind, although the child may have been conceived as the result of sin, the murder of the child cannot be justified. Two wrongs do not make a right, nor is a murder justified by the act of rape or incest. In Rom 12:17-21… we are reminded that the Biblical method of dealing with wickedness is to “overcome evil with good”. In other words, to “recompense” one evil act with another evil act is of no spiritual value. But by displaying love and kindness to others in the midst of wickedness is glorifying to the Lord who set us

the ultimate example of goodness in the midst of wickedness.

VI. What About Abortion To Protect The Life of the Mother?

One of the most difficult situations a mother can face is to know that by giving birth to her child may endanger her life. Anyone in this situation should prayerfully, consider the Biblical teachings on the Mother/Child love relationship.

In Titus 2:4 young mothers are told to” love their children”.   1 Cor 13:4-7 helps us to understand that the basis of a true, Biblical love is self-sacrifice. Both of these verses, when viewed together, helps us to understand that a mother’s role is one of self-sacrifice… constantly working for the good of the child even at great personal cost. That great personal cost may even extend to the giving of one’s life.

In John 15:13, our Lord tells us that “greater love hath no man than this that a man lay down his life for his friends.” This principle applies to a mother and child as illustrated by our Lord in Matthew 23:37… where the Lord speaks of a mother hen gathering her chicks under her wings, protecting them from harm at the risk of her own life.

In the rare event that a pregnancy puts at risk the mother’s life… would it not be proper for the mother to be willing to risk her life for the sake of her unborn child?

VII. Is There Any Example of Someone Being Punished For Harming A Child In The Womb?

In Ex 21:22-23 we find the case of a pregnant woman who is accidently harmed during a fight between two men. In this case, if she gives birth prematurely due to the injury she received, the party causing her injury was to be “punished, according as the woman’s husband will lay upon him”. The implication is that the child is prematurely born but does not suffer harm nor death.

However, these verses go on to explain if “mischief” follows. IE if the child is permanently harmed or dies then “thou shalt give life for life”. The offender must pay for the mischief that befalls the child due to the premature birth. If the child dies due to the premature birth then, the offender life was to be taken… “Then thou shalt give life for life”.

This verse clearly tells us that harm to a child within the womb is to be treated just as if any other human being was harmed. But more importantly, we see that harm to a child in the womb that results in the child’s death is to be punished with death.

What clearer declaration about the sinfulness of abortion could we find anywhere in Scripture?

Exod 21:22-23 (KJV)

22) 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].

23) And if [any] mischief follow, then thou shalt give life for life,

PRACTICAL APPLICATION:

Currently, since abortions are legal in our country, the abortion decision must be made on an individual basis between the parents of the unborn and their God. By God’s grace, a proper understanding of the Scriptures will make clear the sinfulness of abortion and the need for the unborn to be brought to full term.

For those who have already aborted their child, or for those doctors who have committed abortions, forgiveness can be found with our God.

Isa 55:7 (KJV) Let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts: and let him return unto the LORD, and he will have mercy upon him; and to our God, for he will abundantly pardon.

Mark 3:28 (KJV)

28) Verily I say unto you, All sins shall be forgiven unto the sons of men, and blasphemies wherewith soever they shall blaspheme:

If you have more questions concerning forgiveness and the way of salvation please feel free to visit or call a Bible teaching church in your area. They will be happy to speak to you about the Lord Jesus and the salvation He graciously gives.

Or, if you would rather, feel welcome to email me at settledinheaven@gmail.com. I’ll be more than happy to answer any question you may have.

Also, if you look at my blog page “How To Have A Relationship With God”. On this page you will find several blog entries explaining the way of salvation.

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Homosexuality: What does the Bible say?

2012-01-12T13:58:00.000-08:00

Same-Sex Marriage: What does the Bible say?

2012-01-12T08:50:00.000-08:00

One of the more controversial issues in our country today is the issue of same-sex marriage, civil unions and the role of homosexuality.   With the upcoming Presidential primaries and general election, the subject of same-sex marriages versus civil unions has been receiving more airplay.

I thought it would be a good thing to take a few moments and refresh our memories concerning the biblical teachings on homosexuality, its historical occurrences, and its standing in the eyes of God.

Let’s begin today’s look at the Scriptural teachings on homosexuality.

THE SCRIPTURES:

Lev 18:22-25 (KJV) Thou shalt not lie with mankind, as with womankind: it [is] abomination. Neither shalt thou lie with any beast to defile thyself therewith: neither shall any woman stand before a beast to lie down thereto: it [is] confusion. Defile not ye yourselves in any of these things: for in all these the nations are defiled which I cast out before you: And the land is defiled: therefore I do visit the iniquity thereof upon it, and the land itself vomiteth out her inhabitants.

Lev 20:13 (KJV) If a man also lie with mankind, as he lieth with a woman, both of them have committed an abomination: they shall surely be put to death; their blood [shall be] upon them.

Rom 1:24-29 (KJV) 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.

1Cor 6:9-11 (KJV) Know ye not that the unrighteous shall not inherit the kingdom of God? Be not deceived: neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor effeminate, nor abusers of themselves with mankind, Nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners, shall inherit the kingdom of God. And such were some of you: but ye are washed, but ye are sanctified, but ye are justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, and by the Spirit of our God.

1Tim 1:9-10 (KJV) Knowing this, that the law is not made for a righteous man, but for the lawless and disobedient, for the ungodly and for sinners, for unholy and profane, for murderers of fathers and murderers of mothers, for manslayers, For whoremongers, for them that defile themselves with mankind, for menstealers, for liars, for perjured persons, and if there be any other thing that is contrary to sound doctrine;

  Jude 1:7 (KJV) Even as Sodom and Gomorrha, and the cities about them in like manner, giving themselves over to fornication, and going after strange flesh, are set forth for an example, suffering the vengeance of eternal fire.

Gen 19:4-8 (KJV) But before they lay down, the men of the city, [even] the men of Sodom, compassed the house round, both old and young, all the people from every quarter: And they called unto Lot, and said unto him, Where [are] the men which came in to thee this night? bring them out unto us, that we may know them. And Lot went out at the door unto them, and shut the door after him, And said, I pray you, brethren, do not so wickedly. Behold now, I have two daughters which have not known man; let me, I pray you, bring them out unto you, and do ye to them as [is] good in your eyes: only unto these men do nothing; for therefore came they under the shadow of my roof.

Deut 23:17 (KJV) There shall be no whore of the daughters of Israel, nor a sodomite of the sons of Israel.

2Tim 3:1-5 (KJV) This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come. For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, Without natural affection, trucebreakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good, Traitors, heady, highminded, lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God; Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away.

THE STUDY:

I. What does the Bible Teach About Homosexuality?

In the Old Testament the Bible makes it plain that homosexuality is a sinful act:

Lev 18:22-25 (KJV) Thou shalt not lie with mankind, as with womankind: it [is] abomination… Defile not ye yourselves in any of these things: for in all these the nations are defiled which I cast out before you: And the land is defiled: therefore I do visit the iniquity thereof upon it, and the land itself vomiteth out her inhabitants.

Lev 20:13 (KJV) If a man also lie with mankind, as he lieth with a woman, both of them have committed an abomination: they shall surely be put to death; their blood [shall be] upon them.

Please note an “abomination” – is the Hebrew word “tow ebah” which refers to something that is disgusting or abhorred.

The New Testament affirms, and upholds, the sinfulness of the homosexual act:

Rom 1:24-29 (KJV) 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.

Please note “vile” is a Greek word referring to “dishonorable”; while the Greek word for “unseemly” means “indecent or shameful”. Likewise the Greek word for “error” refers “to stray to wrong path”.

Each of these words, when linked to the last verse of this text “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.” Plainly shows the sinfulness of the homosexual act.

1Cor 6:9-11 (KJV) Know ye not that the unrighteous shall not inherit the kingdom of God? Be not deceived: neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor effeminate, nor abusers of themselves with mankind, Nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners, shall inherit the kingdom of God. And such were some of you: but ye are washed, but ye are sanctified, but ye are justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, and by the Spirit of our God.

The Greek word for “effeminate” means “to be soft”. This possibly refers to the tendency of some homosexuals to purposefully display feminine characteristics to attract other males. Or, perhaps, it refers to taking younger (soft) males as homosexual companions. In either case, homosexuality is in view.

The phrase “abusers of themselves with mankind” literally means “to have sexual relations with a male”

1Tim 1:9-10 (KJV) Knowing this, that the law is not made for a righteous man, but for the lawless and disobedient, for the ungodly and for sinners, for unholy and profane, for murderers of fathers and murderers of mothers, for manslayers, For whoremongers, for them that defile themselves with mankind, for menstealers, for liars, for perjured persons, and if there be any other thing that is contrary to sound doctrine;

Please note: to “defile themselves with mankind” is the same Greek phrase as “abusers of themselves with mankind” found in 1 Cor 6:9-11. This phrase means “to have sexual relations with a male”

Jude 1:7 (KJV) Even as Sodom and Gomorrha, and the cities about them in like manner, giving themselves over to fornication, and going after strange flesh, are set forth for an example, suffering the vengeance of eternal fire.

The word for “fornication” means uncleanness. What type of unclean activity was Sodom and Gomorrha guilty of committing?... going after “strange flesh”.

Note the phrase “strange flesh” ie foreign, or other body. In other words, to lust after bodies that are in opposition to the commands of the Lord. Homosexuality is foreign and goes against the plan of God for sexual unions.

In the above reference, Jude is recalling what took place in the cities of Sodom and Gomorrha…. The account of this incident is found in Genesis 19:4-8:

Gen 19:4-8 (KJV) But before they lay down, the men of the city, [even] the men of Sodom, compassed the house round, both old and young, all the people from every quarter: And they called unto Lot, and said unto him, Where [are] the men which came in to thee this night? bring them out unto us, that we may know them. And Lot went out at the door unto them, and shut the door after him, And said, I pray you, brethren, do not so wickedly. Behold now, I have two daughters which have not known man; let me, I pray you, bring them out unto you, and do ye to them as [is] good in your eyes: only unto these men do nothing; for therefore came they under the shadow of my roof.

“we may know them” is a common Hebrew phrase (yada) that is used to describe a sexual relationship… (Gen 4:1, Gen 38:26, etc) Also, please notice that a homosexual is given the title sodomite in the Bible, and is linked to sexual sins in Deut 23:17…

Deut 23:17 (KJV) There shall be no whore of the daughters of Israel, nor a sodomite of the sons of Israel.

When taken in context, it is obvious that the inhabitants of Sodom and Gommorrah did not desire to simply interrogate or become friendly with the angel/men who were visiting Lot…. They desired to have a sexual relationship with them.

II. What about Homosexual Marriage or Same Sex Legal Unions?

Once the sinfulness of the homosexual act is established the question of homosexual marriage or homosexual legal union becomes an easy issue to understand.

To allow the existence of homosexual legal unions is the governmental condoning of sinful acts. This flies in the face of one of the purposes of human government which is to uphold the Lord’s commands through the punishment of sinful actions (Rom 13:1-5).

To allow the existence of homosexual marriages is not only the condoning of sinful acts, but it is also the perversion of the marriage union which God has ordained to be between one man and one woman… (Matt 19:4-5; 1 Cor 7:1-2)

III. How Are Christians To Relate To Homosexuals?

“For all have sinned and come short of the glory of God” this verse applies to the heterosexual as well as the homosexual. We are all in the same boat.

As fallen, sinful mankind, we all have the need of salvation through the shed blood of the Lord Jesus Christ. “But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.”

As those who have received God’s gracious salvation from our sins… we understand the importance of proclaiming the gospel message to those who are in need of forgiveness…

“For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek. For therein is the righteousness of God revealed from faith to faith: as it is written, The just shall live by faith.”

Just as Paul made it plain that homosexuality is a sin… he made it just as plain that the sin of homosexuality can be forgiven, just like any other sin…. We should never treat homosexuality as an unpardonable sin or a sin that is beyond the grace of God.

“Know ye not that the unrighteous shall not inherit the kingdom of God? Be not deceived: neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor effeminate, nor abusers of themselves with mankind, Nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners, shall inherit the kingdom of God. And such were some of you: but ye are washed, but ye are sanctified, but ye are justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, and by the Spirit of our God.”

Therefore we should gladly, willingly share the gospel message with the homosexual community as an act of love and responsibility knowing that apart from God’s grace we, too, would be living lives of separation from Him.

If you have any questions concerning the way of salvation please feel free to visit or call a Bible teaching church in your area. They will be happy to speak to you about the Lord Jesus and the salvation He graciously gives.

Or, if you would rather, feel welcome to email me at settledinheaven@gmail.com. I’ll be more than happy to answer any question you may have.

Also, if you look at my blog page “How To Have A Relationship With God”. On this page you will find several blog entries explaining the way of salvation.

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Crucified - A Good Friday Devotion

2012-01-10T07:20:00.000-08:00

In many of the nations of the world, we find capital punishment being exercised for many differing offenses.   Some nations practice capital punishment against only the most heinous of crimes, for others, executions take place for many varying offenses like smuggling, unlawful possession of firearms or drugs, armed robbery etc. For a more complete list of capital offenses in the various countries of the world click on this link: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Use_of_capital_punishment_by_nation

The methods of capital punishment also vary among the nations as well.   These methods include: Lethal injection, electric chair, gas chamber, single person shooting, firing squad, hanging, beheading, guillotine, stoning and use of the garrote.

In Bible times, crucifixion was one of the most common methods of capital punishment used in theRoman Empire. Crucifixion is no longer used officially by any government for the purpose of capital punishment. However, symbolic and ritualistic crucifixions continue to take place in many countries throughout the world.

The Biblical teachings on capital punishment and physical crucifixions will have to wait for another time and place, for today’s blog entry I would like us to concentrate on the meaning of “being crucified with Christ”.

THE SCRIPTURES:

Gal 2:20 (KJV)

20) I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me.

Gal 5:24 (KJV)

24) And they that are Christ's have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts.

Gal 6:14 (KJV)

14) But God forbid that I should glory, save in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom the world is crucified unto me, and I unto the world.

Rom 6:6 (KJV)

6) Knowing this, that our old man is crucified with [him], that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin.

THE STUDY:

Our Lord Jesus Christ suffered a horrible crucifixion at the hands of the Roman government and Jewish religious leaders. In a sense, we are all guilty of placing Christ on the cross; we are guilty of committing the sins for which He was crucified:

1Cor 15:3-4 (KJV)

For I delivered unto you first of all that which I also received, how that Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures; And that he was buried, and that he rose again the third day according to the scriptures:…

It was because of our sins that He would have to die on the cross, taking the punishment of our sins upon Himself so that we might be saved:

Gal 3:13 (KJV)

Christ hath redeemed us from the curse of the law, being made a curse for us: for it is written, Cursed [is] every one that hangeth on a tree:

1Pet 3:18 (KJV)

For Christ also hath once suffered for sins, the just for the unjust, that he might bring us to God, being put to death in the flesh, but quickened by the Spirit:

But the results of Christ’s crucifixion do not end on the cross. We are told throughout the New Testament scriptures that we, as Christians, share in the experience of the crucifixion. Let’s begin our study by looking at Gal 2:20 (KJV):

I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me.

The term “crucified” relates to us the idea death and its results.   When Christ was crucified, His physical life was laid aside (death). The results of His death was that His body was left in the tomb, while His spirit entered heaven for three days and three nights; this entailed separation, ie separation of His spirit from His body, and also the separation of both His body and spirit from this world).

In the above verse, we find that Christians are described as being “crucified with Christ”. In other words, just as Christ was literally put to death and then experienced separation, so to we, as Christians, are put to death and separated in three ways:

1. We no longer live to fulfill our sinful, fleshly desires. Although we still commit sin, but we no longer are enslaved by our fleshly desires. A separation has been formed between us and our desires We now strive to obey our Lord in everything that we do fighting against our desires and striving to live lives of holiness. Gal 5:24 (KJV) And they that are Christ's have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts.

2. We are no longer alive to the affects of the sinful world around us. Many are the temptations and sins that are placed before us in this sinful world. Not only do we no longer serve our fleshly desires, we no longer serve the sinful world around us. We are no longer “alive” to these temptations, but we now are counted as dead, separated from them. Gal 6:14 (KJV) But God forbid that I should glory, save in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom the world is crucified unto me, and I unto the world.

3. Our “old man” is also put to death through the workings of Christ on the cross. Our “old man” is a phrase used to describe our old sin nature and the resulting sinful lifestyle. Our past habits and practices have been changed. We were slaves to our sinful lifestyle but now have become the servants of the Lord Jesus Christ. This is also described in God’s Word as becoming a “new creature in Christ” (2 Cor 5:17). Rom 6:6 (KJV) Knowing this, that our old man is crucified with [him], that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin.

In our Gal 2:20 text, the verse continues on…. “I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me:…”

Here the phrase “nevertheless I live…” is teaching us that just as the death of Christ on the cross resulted in His resurrection and new physical life on earth; so too, our sharing in His crucifixion results in our new life in Him. Although we are counted as dead to our sinful desires, the sinful world and our “old man” ; we are made spiritually alive. This spiritual life is accompanied by the indwelling of the Savior, in the person of the Holy Spirit.

Our text closes by stating… “and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me.”

This newly received spiritual life, and the accompanying change in lifestyle, is based upon faith in Christ. How does a person share in the crucifixion of Christ? Through faith. How does a Christian live a new life of submission to Christ? Through faith. This same Christ in whom we trust, is the same Christ that loved us before the world began. Based upon His love, He came to the earth and died on the cross so that we might be saved.

If you see that your sin has caused the Lord grief and pain; if you abhor the sin that is in your life and you are willing to turn from that sin; come to Christ in faith, trusting in Him to forgive your every sin, and make your future with Him secure.

Matt 11:28-30 (KJV)

Come unto me, all [ye] that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.

Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls.

For my yoke [is] easy, and my burden is light.

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From Gold to Brass: The Effects of Sin

2012-01-07T01:15:00.000-08:00

Devaluing of the US dollar is a significant issue in today’s time. A devalued dollar has both good and bad results. Increased exports and a lower balance of payments deficit are the two most referenced positive results to devaluing the dollar. The greatest downfall of a devalued dollar is increased inflation and a higher interest payment, for government borrowing.

As you can see from the the chart in the link below, the dollar has been greatly devalued, beginñng in the 1970s and it continues to retain its lower value even unto today. You can read much more about the devalued dollar at: ‘
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Historv of the United States dollar.

This chart speaks volumes about the decline of the US economic system. Prior to the seventies, the economy of the US was strong and a devaluing of the dollar was unnecessary to sustain international supremacy. Beginning with the 70s, and the decline in our economy and deficit balance of payments, the US has had to permanently devalue its dollar to remain competitive in the new “global” economy. As the dollar continues its decline, it will signal a continuing weakness of the US economy.

Gold and the US dollar are valuable assets for anyone to own, but; there are spiritual possessions that far outweigh the value of these. Our faith, and its resulting testimony to others around us, will retain eternal, spiritual value.

1 Pet 1:6-9 (KJV)
6) Wherein ye greatly rejoice, though now for a season, if need be, ye are in heaviness through manifold temptations: 7) That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honour and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ; 8) Whom having not seen, ye love; in whom, though now ye see [him] not, yet believing, ye rejoice with joy unspeakable and full of glory: 9) Receiving the end of your faith, (even] the salvation of [your] souls.

THE SCRIPTURES:
1 Kgs 10: 16-17 (KJV)
16) And king Solomon made two hundred targets [of] beaten gold: six hundred [shekels] of gold went to one target. 17) And [he made] three hundred shields [of] beaten gold; three pound of gold went to one shield: and the king put them in the house of theforest ofLebanon:

1 Kgs 14:21-28 (KJV)
21) And Rehoboam the son of Solomon reigned in Judah. Rehoboam [was] forty and one years old when he began to reign, and he reigned seventeen years in Jerusalem, the city which the LORD did choose out of all the tribes of Israel, to put His name there. And his mothers name was Naamah an Ammonitess 22) And Judah did evil in the sight of the LORD, and they, provoked him to jealousy with their sins which they had committed, above all that their fathers had done. . 23) For they also built them high places, and images, and groves. on every high hill, and under every green tree. 24) And there were also sodomites in the land: [and] they did according to all the abominations of the nations which the LORD cast out before the children of Israel. 25) And it came to pass in the fifth year of king Rehoboam,’ [that] Shishak king of Egypt came up against Jerusalem: 26) And he took away the treasures of the house of the LORD, and the treasures of the king’s. house even took away all: and he took away all the shields of gold which Solornon had made. 27) And king Rehoboam made in their stead brasen shields, and committed [them) unto the hands of the chief of the guard, which kept the door of the king’s house. 28) And it was [so], when the king went into the house of the LORD, that the guard bare them,
and brought them back into the guard chamber.

THE STUDY:

1Kgs 10:16-17 (KJV)

16) And king Solomon made two hundred targets [of] beaten gold: six hundred [shekels] of gold went to one target.

“target” – large shield, you can hide your entire body behind it

“600 shekels of gold” – equals approximately 300 oz of gold with a value of $357,000.00 per target

17) And [he made] three hundred shields [of] beaten gold; three pound of gold went to one shield: and the king put them in the house of the forest of Lebanon.

“shield” — smaller shield hooked to arm, hold it up to defend in hand to hand combat

3 Hebrew pounds = 3.75 American lbs = 6Ooz = $ 72,000.00 per shield

All of the targets and shields together totaled over $93 million dollars.

These were only for show and not for use in battle. We know this because the targets were too heavy for a warrior to easily maneuver during battle, and the metal was too soft to supply protection for either the target or the shield.

This collection of targets and shields was symbolic of the nation’s wealth. This collection was a testimony to the strength, presence and grace of Jehovah, as He brought prosperity to the Nation of Israel. These symbols of God’s blessings, were meant to bring Him honor and praise throughout all generations.

Approximately 20 years after the making of the targets and shields that King Solomon died and his son Rehoboam took the throne of the Southern Kingdom of Judah.
1 Kngs 14:21-28

21) And Rehoboam the son of Sotomon reigned in Judah. Rehoboam [was] forty and one years old when he began to reign, and he reigned seventeen years in - Jerusalem, the city[which the LORD did choose out of all the tribes of Israel to put his name there And his mother’s name was Naamah an Ammonitess

At the death of Solomon, Rehoboam his son, takes the throne of Judahthe southern
kingdom. During his reign Rehoboam did not follow the desires of God for his nation but allowed his nation to turn to the worship of false gods and sinful lifestyles....

22) And Judah did evil in the sight of the LORD, and they provoked him to jealousy with their sins which they had committed, above all that their fathers had done 23) For they also built them high places and images, and groves, on every high hill, and under every green tree. 24) And there were also sodomites in the land: [and] they did according to all the abominations of the nations which the LORD cast out before the children of Israel.

Israelhad turned their backs on being faithful to Jehovah! They began to worship the false Gods of the Gentiles. The high places, images, and groves were all instruments for their idol worship taken from the heathen nations that surroundedIsrael. Not only did they worship false gods; but they incorporated the sin of homosexuality with the idolatrous, worship services.

25) And it came to pass in the fifth year of king Rehoboam, [that] Shishak king Egypt came up against Jerusalem: 26) And he took away the treasures of the house of the LORD, and the treasures of the king’s house; he even took away all: and he took away all the shields of gold which Solomon had made.

Following the five year decline ofJudahinto idolatry, the Lord allowedEgyptto invadeJudahand pillage the land. Some of the riches that were taken by the Egyptians were the contents of theTempleofSolomon. The contents included the shields of gold that had been previously stored there by Solomon. The times of blessings and superiority that Jehovah had given to the Israelites had come to an end.

27) And king Rehoboam made in their, stead brasen shields,” and committed [them] unto the hands of the chief of the guard, which kept the door of the King’s house 28) And it was [so], when the king went into the house of the LORD, that the guard bare them and brought them back into the guard chamber.

King Rehoboam now replaces the golden shields with those made of brass. What a poor replacement for those that were previously displays of Jehovah’s blessings and prosperity uponJudah. These new shields were now a stunning admission of the loss of Jehovah’s favor upon this adulterous nation, who had turned their affections from the true God Jehovah to the idols and practices of the ungodly world around them. These replacement shields were a public declaration of sin and its devastating effects upon the public testimony of God’s chosen nation.

Please remember, gold throughout the Bible is a picture of high value and Divine presence; brass, on the other hand, is a picture of minimal temporal value and Divine displeasure.

Israeltraded their worship of the True God, His presence and His favor and blessings; for the worship of man made gods, and the loss of spiritual fidelity, intimacy and displeasure of Almighty God.

PRACTICAL APPLICATION:

For those who are not saved…

Just as habitual sin ruinedIsrael’s testimony and communion with Jehovah; sin in the lives of Christians, can bring ruin to our testimony and relationship with the Lord, as well. One of our greatest privileges is to possess communion with the Lord and a testimony which is unspotted from this world and results in eternal praise to Almighty God. Let’s strive for faithfulness, allowing the Lord to be shown through our lives to His eternal glory.

Jas 1:27 (KJV) - Pure religion and undefiled before God and the Father is this, To visit the fatherless and widows in their affliction, [and] to keep himself unspotted from the world.

Job 23:10 (KJV) - But he knoweth the way that I take: [when] he hath tried me, I shall come forth as gold.

For those who are not saved…

Living a spiritually prosperous and blessed life of communion with God begins by entering into a personal relationship with the Lord Jesus Christ. By trusting in His person and work on the cross, you can receive the forgiveness of sins and an assurance of communion with Him.

John 1:10-13 (KJV)

10) He was in the world, and the world was made by him, and the world knew him not.

11) He came unto his own, and his own received him not.

12) But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, [even] to them that believe on his name:

13) Which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God.

Heb 13:5-6 (KJV)

5) [Let your] conversation [be] without covetousness; [and be] content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee.

6) So that we may boldly say, The Lord [is] my helper, and I will not fear what man shall do unto me.

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