Churches of Christ

Marriage From The Beginning

2007-11-05T14:16:00.000-05:00

MARRIAGE FROM THE BEGINNING
By Joe McClure, 70 Cherry Drive, Madison, WV 25130; Phone:304-369-4805; email: joedrema@gmail.com

Dear reader, please read this with your Bible open to the selected passages that we shall study in this book. I shall prove by God’s Word that the covenant of Jesus Christ forbids having a second spouse while the first one is living. The law of Christ does not teach that one may divorce and remarry, for any cause. This topic should be quite easy to understand, except for the vast amount of false teaching and generally the acceptance of this false doctrine by the masses. So, please bear with me in reading a vast amount of scriptures in your own search for the truth. If all would rightly understand how to divide the teaching of Jesus which dealt with the Law of Moses and the Law of Christ, it would be much easier to discuss this topic. The law of Moses was in existence during the days preceding the death of Christ, and it is on this thought that we begin this study.

CHAPTER 1.
Jesus KEPT THE LAW OF Moses
Text: Matthew 5.17-20

In the first part of our study, we find Jesus on the mountain overlooking the Sea of Galilee. Here he is giving instructions to his disciples, among which we find the 12 Apostles.
In context, Jesus has been teaching what is commonly referred to as the beatitudes or the blessings taught by Jesus.
Our study about marriage has its origin in the following text:

Matthew 5:17-20-- Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfil. [18] For verily I say unto you, Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law, till all be fulfilled. [19] Whosoever therefore shall break one of these least commandments, and shall teach men so, he shall be called the least in the kingdom of heaven: but whosoever shall do and teach them, the same shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven. [20] For I say unto you, That except your righteousness shall exceed the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees, ye shall in no case enter into the kingdom of heaven.

In this text, the overall thought is to assure the listeners that Jesus has not come to teach anything that will cause them to go against the teachings of Moses and the prophets.
It may have appeared to the common man that the teachings of Jesus were different than the Law of Moses because they had not been taught the truth of the Law.
They had been taught the oral tradition of the elders, which in many cases distorted the true meaning of the Law.
On one occasion, we see Jesus speaking to the religious leaders of the day and we see that he was at odds with the common definition of righteousness by the Pharisees.

Mark 7:6-9-- He answered and said unto them, Well hath Esaias prophesied of you hypocrites, as it is written, This people honoureth me with their lips, but their heart is far from me. [7] Howbeit in vain do they worship me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men. [8] For laying aside the commandment of God, ye hold the tradition of men, as the washing of pots and cups: and many other such like things ye do. [9] And he said unto them, Full well ye reject the commandment of God, that ye may keep your own tradition.

For this reason many thought that Jesus blasphemed the Law of Moses because he stood boldly against the respected teachers of the temple and the synagogues.
I want to pay attention to verses 17 and 18 first.

Matthew 5:17-18--Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfil. [18] For verily I say unto you, Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law, till all be fulfilled.

If Jesus did not come to destroy the law and the prophets, why did he come?

What was the purpose of the life of Jesus the Christ?
The purpose of Jesus, at the time of our text here in Matthew 5, that is during the days before his death, was to teach the Jews that they had been following the traditions of their fathers instead of the truth of the Law of Moses.
Regardless of which law was in effect, the purpose of Jesus was to teach the truth.
Notice what Jesus told Pilate just before his death.
John 18:37--Pilate therefore said unto him, Art thou a king then? Jesus answered, Thou sayest that I am a king. To this end was I born, and for this cause came I into the world, that I should bear witness unto the truth. Every one that is of the truth heareth my voice.
All of the other statements that a person could make about the purpose of Jesus centers around this single fact.
Notice what Jesus said about the truth in John 8.32.
John 8:32-- And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.
If a person knows the truth that the gospel of Jesus Christ teaches, then they can be redeemed from their sins.
So, we might state that the mission of Jesus was to save those who are lost.
Luke 19:10-- For the Son of man is come to seek and to save that which was lost.
The Apostle Paul said that Jesus came into the world to save sinners.
1 Timothy 1:15--This is a faithful saying, and worthy of all acceptation, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners; of whom I am chief.
So, we could state that the purpose of Jesus was to save the lost or sinners.
It had been prophesied in connection with the coming of Christ that all nations would be saved. Under the government of the Law of Moses, this was not true. Those who were not of Jewish descent were not ministered to with the truth.
So, as Jesus looks forward in time to the event that happened on the 1st Day of Pentecost after his death, burial, and resurrection, he began to preach the kingdom of Christ.
Mark 1:14-15-- 14 Now after that John was put in prison, Jesus came into Galilee, preaching the gospel of the kingdom of God, 15 And saying, The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand: repent ye, and believe the gospel.

We see in this passage the Jesus says that it is almost time for the coming of the kingdom of God.
In connection with the coming of the kingdom, he tells them to repent and believe the gospel.
So, we could say that the purpose of Jesus was to preach the coming of his kingdom.
Regardless of how you might state the mission of Jesus, it was his purpose to share his knowledge of the truth of God that has the power to save the lost and has the power to put them into a saved state in the kingdom of Jesus Christ.
In view of these thoughts, let us look at our text verse in Matthew 5.17-18.
Matthew 5:17-18--Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfil. [18] For verily I say unto you, Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law, till all be fulfilled.
If Jesus did not come to the earth to destroy the Law of Moses or the writings of the Prophets, and he came to fulfill, what did he come to fulfill?
Not a single thing of the Law of Moses would lose its power until Jesus fulfilled the law and what the prophets foretold of the coming Messiah and his kingdom.
The fulfilling of the ancient prophecies is another whole series of sermons that I have preached before, but for the sake of explanation, I want to notice what the Apostle Peter preached after the Day of Pentecost and the beginning of the church and kingdom of Christ.
Acts 3:18-26-- But those things, which God before had shewed by the mouth of all his prophets, that Christ should suffer, he hath so fulfilled. [19] Repent ye therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out, when the times of refreshing shall come from the presence of the Lord; [20] And he shall send Jesus Christ, which before was preached unto you: [21] Whom the heaven must receive until the times of restitution of all things, which God hath spoken by the mouth of all his holy prophets since the world began. [22] For Moses truly said unto the fathers, A prophet shall the Lord your God raise up unto you of your brethren, like unto me; him shall ye hear in all things whatsoever he shall say unto you. [23] And it shall come to pass, that every soul, which will not hear that prophet, shall be destroyed from among the people. [24] Yea, and all the prophets from Samuel and those that follow after, as many as have spoken, have likewise foretold of these days. [25] Ye are the children of the prophets, and of the covenant which God made with our fathers, saying unto Abraham, And in thy seed shall all the kindreds of the earth be blessed. [26] Unto you first God, having raised up his Son Jesus, sent him to bless you, in turning away every one of you from his iniquities.
The gospel was preached on the Day of Pentecost and Peter and the other apostles told them to repent and be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of their sins, and that they would receive the gift of the Holy Ghost.
When they obeyed Peter and were baptized, they were actually obeying the Law and the prophets that foretold this day and the coming of a new covenant.
Jeremiah 31.31> Behold, the days come, saith the Lord, that I will make a new covenant with the house of Israel, and with the house of Judah.
That day came on the Day of Pentecost as recorded in Acts 2.
Paul said that his preaching was in perfect agreement with the Law of Moses.
Romans 3:31 Do we then make void the law through faith? God forbid: yea, we establish the law.
How is this possible?
We no longer are under the Laws of the 10 commandments or any of the laws of the 1st covenant, but Paul said that the faith in Jesus Christ established the law.
As we have seen, a person could not be obedient to the 1st Covenant or Law of Moses after the establishment of the kingdom of Christ without being added to the church of Christ.
Romans 10:4 For Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to every one that believeth.
Faith in the teachings of the Apostles regarding the gospel of Christ was the result or end of the law as far as the definition of what was right.
The Law of Moses, when obeyed by the Jews, would lead them to the point that they would accept Jesus as their Messiah, as the Christ.
Galatians 3.24--24 Wherefore the law was our schoolmaster to bring us unto Christ, that we might be justified by faith.
So then, not one little word or letter or even the dot over the letter 'i', or the crossing of the letter 't' will be deleted or put away until everything has been fulfilled.
Now, turn back to the text that we are studying and we will look at verse 19 next.
Matthew 5.19--19. Whosoever therefore shall break one of these least commandments, and shall teach men so, he shall be called the least in the kingdom of heaven: but whosoever shall do and teach them, the same shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven.
There is an error being made by some of the church of Christ preachers today. They are preaching that there were times in the teaching of Christ that he taught things that contradicted the Law of Moses.
By reading Matthew 5.19, we should be able to understand that Jesus is saying here that it is wrong to either break the Law of Moses and it is certainly wrong to teach other folks that they might break the commandments of the Law of Moses.
If our understanding of Matthew 5.19 is correct, then we should not be able to find any one single incidence of a time where Jesus spoke contrary to the Law of Moses.
If we can find a teaching of Jesus before he died on the cross that is contrary to the Law of Moses, then our understanding of Matthew 5.19 must not be correct.
I want to look briefly at some of the passages that critics quote that deny the truth of our understanding of Matthew 5.19. Most of them exist right here in the sermon on the mount.
For Jesus to state that these Jewish disciples were to keep the Law of Moses, would he then have continued to teach them to disobey that same law?
Our next verse states that the disciples of Christ that are with him that day must be more righteous than the scribes and the Pharisees.
Matthew 5.20--For I say unto you, That except your righteousness shall exceed the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees, ye shall in no case enter into the kingdom of heaven.
Why?
Why did they have to be more righteous than the scribes and Pharisees, who were regarded as the religious leaders of their day?
Jesus did not have any problem with the portion of the Law that they did teach correctly, but he condemned the scribes and Pharisees for being hypocritical. They went beyond their authority.
Matthew 23:23-28-- 23 Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye pay tithe of mint and anise and cummin, and have omitted the weightier matters of the law, judgment, mercy, and faith: these ought ye to have done, and not to leave the other undone. 24 Ye blind guides, which strain at a gnat, and swallow a camel. 25 Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye make clean the outside of the cup and of the platter, but within they are full of extortion and excess. 26 Thou blind Pharisee, cleanse first that which is within the cup and platter, that the outside of them may be clean also. 27 Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye are like unto whited sepulchres, which indeed appear beautiful outward, but are within full of dead men's bones, and of all uncleanness. 28 Even so ye also outwardly appear righteous unto men, but within ye are full of hypocrisy and iniquity.
You can see why Jesus wanted his disciples to be more righteous than the scribes and the Pharisees!
He did not want his disciples to just appear to be righteous, he wanted them to be righteous in their hearts.
1John 3:18-- My little children, let us not love in word, neither in tongue; but in deed and in truth.
As we return to our text, Jesus begins now to renounce the lies that had been preached about the law of God.
After he tells them what they have heard that the law of God says, then he will tell them what the truth of the law rightfully included.
The Pharisees were preaching many additions that had been made by man as truth.
Jesus is not going to disagree with the Law of Moses, but he is going to disagree with the teachings of the scribes and Pharisees on matters of tradition.
I want you to begin studying these sayings of Jesus and see if the teachings of Jesus agreed with the Law of Moses.
We will look at most of the scriptures left in this sermon on the mount, but I want to give you one good example before we leave the lesson for today.
Matthew 5.38-39--38. Ye have heard that it hath been said, An eye for an eye, and a tooth for a tooth: 39. But I say unto you, That ye resist not evil: but whosoever shall smite thee on thy right cheek, turn to him the other also.
This is something that most people believe that the Law of Moses taught; that is, that it was justified for a man to take vengeance upon his neighbor.
Let us look at this and see if the Jews were allowed to take and eye for an eye.
Does Jesus teach the Jews here to do something different than the Law of Moses commands?
We must go back to the law of Moses to see what it taught.
First of all, we see that God's law set up judges over the people to determine judgment in all cases.
Deuteronomy 16:18-19---Judges and officers shalt thou make thee in all thy gates, which the LORD thy God giveth thee, throughout thy tribes: and they shall judge the people with just judgment. [19] Thou shalt not wrest judgment; thou shalt not respect persons, neither take a gift: for a gift doth blind the eyes of the wise, and pervert the words of the righteous.
According to the Law of Moses, they were to choose men to be judges and officers of the law to deal with any conflict or controversy between men.
Deuteronomy 25:1-3-- If there be a controversy between men, and they come unto judgment, that the judges may judge them; then they shall justify the righteous, and condemn the wicked. [2] And it shall be, if the wicked man be worthy to be beaten, that the judge shall cause him to lie down, and to be beaten before his face, according to his fault, by a certain number. [3] Forty stripes he may give him, and not exceed: lest, if he should exceed, and beat him above these with many stripes, then thy brother should seem vile unto thee.
It was not that there would not be any retribution at all, but if so, it would not be decided by the individual, but by the judges.
The Law of Moses forbade personal retaliation.
According to his wisdom, God did not want the judgment to rest in the hands of an individual, and we continue to see the wisdom of that today in our court system.
Now, let us go to the specific law that Jesus refers to about an eye for an eye.
The common understanding of the Law of Moses was misunderstood and all that Jesus is doing is returning them to the original truth.
Exodus 21:22-25--If men strive, and hurt a woman with child, so that her fruit depart from her, and yet no mischief follow: he shall be surely punished, according as the woman's husband will lay upon him; and he shall pay as the judges determine. [23] And if any mischief follow, then thou shalt give life for life, [24] Eye for eye, tooth for tooth, hand for hand, foot for foot, [25] Burning for burning, wound for wound, stripe for stripe.
So we see that Jesus is in agreement with the Law here. If the judges ruled an eye for eye, then the sentence was to be carried out.
The individual was not allowed to take an eye for an eye or a tooth for a tooth.
The individual was not instructed to take out his own vengeance, but rather go to the officers of the law.
Proverbs 20:22--Say not thou, I will recompense evil; but wait on the LORD, and he shall save thee.
This is just one of the examples that we will consider and at the end of the day, we will see that the fact stands that Jesus did not teach any of his disciples to disobey the law of Moses, nor did he disobey the law of Moses.

CHAPTER 2.
LAW OF MOSES, OR THE LAW OF CHRIST?
There is a school of thought in existence today that teaches that Jesus contradicted the teachings of the Law of Moses during his Sermon on the Mount.
For centuries, the church of Christ taught that, by rightly dividing the Word of truth that the church must understand which side of the cross of Christ that the scripture was spoken.
For many centuries, our brethren taught that those things that Jesus taught in the days, before his death on the cross, agreed with the Law of Moses, and those things taught by Jesus and his Apostles after he arose from the dead were included in the Law of Christ.
In this chapter, I hope to examine some of the teachings that we find in the Sermon on the Mount, contained partly in Matthew 5, and put them to a test.
We wish to examine these sayings of Jesus and see if we can prove which school of thought is true.
As we continue our study, I want you to ask yourself this question--Should the church of Christ obey everything that Jesus taught during his ministry on earth?
We will begin our study today in Matthew 5.21.
Matthew 5.21-26à 21. Ye have heard that it was said by them of old time, Thou shalt not kill; and whosoever shall kill shall be in danger of the judgment: 22. But I say unto you, That whosoever is angry with his brother without a cause shall be in danger of the judgment: and whosoever shall say to his brother, Raca, shall be in danger of the council: but whosoever shall say, Thou fool, shall be in danger of hell fire. 23. Therefore if thou bring thy gift to the altar, and there rememberest that thy brother hath ought against thee; 24. Leave there thy gift before the altar, and go thy way; first be reconciled to thy brother, and then come and offer thy gift. 25. Agree with thine adversary quickly, whiles thou art in the way with him; lest at any time the adversary deliver thee to the judge, and the judge deliver thee to the officer, and thou be cast into prison. 26. Verily I say unto thee, Thou shalt by no means come out thence, till thou hast paid the uttermost farthing.
I want you to notice in the passage two important parts.
· In verse 21, Jesus said, 'Ye have heard that it was said by them of old time'.
· In verse 22, Jesus said, 'But I say unto you'.

By using the word "But", preachers and teachers today are saying that Jesus is giving his future law to the church of Christ in this and all of the other passages like this one from the sermon on the mount.
They say that in the first part, Jesus is saying that they have heard a teaching from the Law of Moses.
Then they say that Jesus in the 2nd part is in disagreement with the Law of Moses on the subject under consideration.
Further, they say that Jesus goes on to teach them the better way of the coming law of the church.
Today I hope to show you the discrepancy of this line of reasoning, with several examples. Our chosen text of Matthew 5.21 speaks of killing.
Matthew 5:21--Ye have heard that it was said by them of old time, Thou shalt not kill; and whosoever shall kill shall be in danger of the judgment:
The Law of Moses does teach that it was wrong to murder.
The commandment not to murder was one of the 10 Commandments given to Moses.
Exodus 20:13--Thou shalt not kill.
If a man violated this law, he was in danger of the judgment.
The word 'judgment' could mean the final, eternal judgment of God, but I believe that Jesus is simply referring to the judgment of the Sanhedrin Court, the Jewish system of punishing the one found guilty.
Leviticus 24:17-- And he that killeth any man shall surely be put to death.
So, we have now seen the law of God regarding murder and the judgment for the violation of that law.
But, there was more to be considered than simply bringing a person to judgment for killing another person.
Numbers 35:16-34--And if he smite him with an instrument of iron, so that he die, he is a murderer: the murderer shall surely be put to death. [17] And if he smite him with throwing a stone, wherewith he may die, and he die, he is a murderer: the murderer shall surely be put to death. [18] Or if he smite him with an hand weapon of wood, wherewith he may die, and he die, he is a murderer: the murderer shall surely be put to death. [19] The revenger of blood himself shall slay the murderer: when he meeteth him, he shall slay him. [20] But if he thrust him of hatred, or hurl at him by laying of wait, that he die; [21] Or in enmity smite him with his hand, that he die: he that smote him shall surely be put to death; for he is a murderer: the revenger of blood shall slay the murderer, when he meeteth him. [22] But if he thrust him suddenly without enmity, or have cast upon him any thing without laying of wait, [23] Or with any stone, wherewith a man may die, seeing him not, and cast it upon him, that he die, and was not his enemy, neither sought his harm: [24] Then the congregation shall judge between the slayer and the revenger of blood according to these judgments: [25] And the congregation shall deliver the slayer out of the hand of the revenger of blood, and the congregation shall restore him to the city of his refuge, whither he was fled: and he shall abide in it unto the death of the high priest, which was anointed with the holy oil. [26] But if the slayer shall at any time come without the border of the city of his refuge, whither he was fled; [27] And the revenger of blood find him without the borders of the city of his refuge, and the revenger of blood kill the slayer; he shall not be guilty of blood: [28] Because he should have remained in the city of his refuge until the death of the high priest: but after the death of the high priest the slayer shall return into the land of his possession. [29] So these things shall be for a statute of judgment unto you throughout your generations in all your dwellings. [30] Whoso killeth any person, the murderer shall be put to death by the mouth of witnesses: but one witness shall not testify against any person to cause him to die. [31] Moreover ye shall take no satisfaction for the life of a murderer, which is guilty of death: but he shall be surely put to death. [32] And ye shall take no satisfaction for him that is fled to the city of his refuge, that he should come again to dwell in the land, until the death of the priest. [33] So ye shall not pollute the land wherein ye are: for blood it defileth the land: and the land cannot be cleansed of the blood that is shed therein, but by the blood of him that shed it. [34] Defile not therefore the land which ye shall inhabit, wherein I dwell: for I the LORD dwell among the children of Israel.
This is just a portion of God’s law dealing with killing, and as you see, this passage deals with murder. This law demands that the blood of the murderer be shed to cleanse the land of the blood of the one who was murdered.
The Law of Moses also required at least 2 witnesses to the murder in order to convict.
There were other cases, in which a person might be killed, and not be described as ‘murder’.
THE ACCIDENTAL DEATH:
The Law of Moses would not bring the judgment of death upon a person if he accidentally killed his neighbor, or if there were not at least 2 witnesses to the killing.
LAW OF MOSES ALLOWED KILLING:
SENTENCE OF DEATH BY THE COURT:
We see that killing was allowed under the law, if the person was guilty of certain offenses that carried with it the death penalty. The law did not allow for the taking of innocent blood.
SENTENCE OF DEATH BY God:
The Hebrew nation was told by God time and again to go out and kill the enemy of the offending nations.
The people were supposed to stone various offenders of the Law of Moses until they were dead.
Legal killing was not only allowed, but also commanded. What was forbidden was the taking of the law into one’s own hands. The individual was commanded to not kill. The sentence of death could only be carried out after the courts ruled on the evidence.
Leviticus 19:18 Thou shalt not avenge, nor bear any grudge against the children of thy people, but thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself: I [am] the LORD.
The murderer was to be killed, but this was not innocent blood.
Deuteronomy 19:10-13-- That innocent blood be not shed in thy land, which the LORD thy God giveth thee for an inheritance, and so blood be upon thee. [11] But if any man hate his neighbour, and lie in wait for him, and rise up against him, and smite him mortally that he die, and fleeth into one of these cities: [12] Then the elders of his city shall send and fetch him thence, and deliver him into the hand of the avenger of blood, that he may die. [13] Thine eye shall not pity him, but thou shalt put away the guilt of innocent blood from Israel, that it may go well with thee.
So we see what the Law of Moses taught regarding those who committed murder.
Jesus was in total agreement with the Law of Moses in regard to the law that forbade the murder of an innocent person.
Jesus recognized it as one of the commandments of the Law of Moses specifically in his discussion with the rich young ruler.
Matthew 19:16-19-- And, behold, one came and said unto him, Good Master, what good thing shall I do, that I may have eternal life? [17] And he said unto him, Why callest thou me good? there is none good but one, that is, God: but if thou wilt enter into life, keep the commandments. [18] 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, [19] Honour thy father and thy mother: and, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.
Does it appear from this passage that Jesus was in disagreement with the Law of Moses regarding murder?
If such were the case, then Jesus would not have given the same law to his Apostles to teach to the church of Christ.
The point that I am trying to prove is the false premise of the rule that our brethren are using in the church of Christ today regarding the Sermon on the Mount.
If the rule will not work here in this passage, then how can we trust the rule for the rest of the passages?
The law regarding murder was also one of the Laws of Christ to the Church of Christ because it is one of the laws given to the church of Christ by the Apostles.
The Apostle Paul lists murder as one of the works of the flesh.
Galatians 5:19-21--- Now the works of the flesh are manifest, which are these; Adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness, [20] Idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, variance, emulations, wrath, strife, seditions, heresies, [21] Envyings, murders, drunkenness, revellings, and such like: of the which I tell you before, as I have also told you in time past, that they which do such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God.
Now look at the 'but I say unto you' from Jesus in our text passage in Matthew 5.22ff.
Matthew 5.22. But I say unto you, That whosoever is angry with his brother without a cause shall be in danger of the judgment: and whosoever shall say to his brother, Raca, shall be in danger of the council: but whosoever shall say, Thou fool, shall be in danger of hell fire. 23. Therefore if thou bring thy gift to the altar, and there rememberest that thy brother hath ought against thee; 24. Leave there thy gift before the altar, and go thy way; first be reconciled to thy brother, and then come and offer thy gift. 25. Agree with thine adversary quickly, whiles thou art in the way with him; lest at any time the adversary deliver thee to the judge, and the judge deliver thee to the officer, and thou be cast into prison. 26. Verily I say unto thee, Thou shalt by no means come out thence, till thou hast paid the uttermost farthing.
**** Are these things contradictory to the Law of Moses regarding murder and are these things law to the church of Christ today?
Is this statement, by Jesus, that says, ' whosoever is angry with his brother without a cause shall be in danger of the judgment: and whosoever shall say to his brother, Raca, shall be in danger of the council: but whosoever shall say, Thou fool, shall be in danger of hell fire' in agreement or disagreement with the Law of Moses?
We have already seen that Jesus taught all men to keep the commandment regarding murder.
Now, notice that Jesus is not contradicting the Law of Moses, but is merely stating some additional causes of a person being in danger of judgment.
Jesus states that they knew that if they murdered someone, they were in danger of the judgment, and if they were angry with their brother without just cause, they were in danger of the judgment also.
**These other things that Jesus has to say do not set aside the Law of Moses, nor do they disagree with the law regarding murder.
*Jesus is telling them some additional things that might fall into the same loose category as murder.
Lets look at each of them:
· Angry with brother without a cause
We see in the OT that even though murder was forbidden, it was also forbidden to just imagine evil against one another in their hearts.
Zechariah 8:17-- And let none of you imagine evil in your hearts against his neighbour; and love no false oath: for all these are things that I hate, saith the LORD.
***Is Jesus teaching some new law to the church here or is he just reminding the disciples of an existing teaching of God's law?
Jesus is teaching them from the law and the prophets that, not only is the physical act condemned, but the thoughts of a man's heart can also cause him to appear before the council.
The act of murder begins with a thought.
Notice this passage from the Old Testament.
Proverbs 6:12-19-- A naughty person, a wicked man, walketh with a froward mouth. [13] He winketh with his eyes, he speaketh with his feet, he teacheth with his fingers; [14] Frowardness is in his heart, he deviseth mischief continually; he soweth discord. [15] Therefore shall his calamity come suddenly; suddenly shall he be broken without remedy. [16] These six things doth the LORD hate: yea, seven are an abomination unto him: [17] A proud look, a lying tongue, and hands that shed innocent blood, [18] An heart that deviseth wicked imaginations, feet that be swift in running to mischief, [19] A false witness that speaketh lies, and he that soweth discord among brethren.
Some of our brethren teach that Jesus is giving new law here and that he is teaching his disciples that it is a sin to be angry with their brother. If so, this contradicts what the Apostle Paul said.
Ephesians 4:26-27-- Be ye angry, and sin not: let not the sun go down upon your wrath: [27] Neither give place to the devil.
As the Lord said, by the Apostle Paul, we are allowed to be angry. However, we are not to allow our anger to take us on a course of sin.
If a man were angry with his brother without a cause, he would have violated the law of the OT that commanded compassion and mercy and love.
To be angry without a cause would be equal to hating your brother.
Leviticus 19:17-18-- Thou shalt not hate thy brother in thine heart: thou shalt in any wise rebuke thy neighbour, and not suffer sin upon him. [18] Thou shalt not avenge, nor bear any grudge against the children of thy people, but thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself: I am the LORD.
The Law of Moses already taught that they were not to bear a grudge, but rather they were to love and forgive the trespasses of their neighbors.
***This agrees with the teaching of Jesus in our text verse of Matthew 5.23-24.
Matthew 5.23-24--23. Therefore if thou bring thy gift to the altar, and there rememberest that thy brother hath ought against thee; 24. Leave there thy gift before the altar, and go thy way; first be reconciled to thy brother, and then come and offer thy gift.
** This was in total agreement with the Law of Moses.
Leviticus 6:2-6-- 2 If a soul sin, and commit a trespass against the Lord, and lie unto his neighbour in that which was delivered him to keep, or in fellowship, or in a thing taken away by violence, or hath deceived his neighbour; 3 Or have found that which was lost, and lieth concerning it, and sweareth falsely; in any of all these that a man doeth, sinning therein: 4 Then it shall be, because he hath sinned, and is guilty, that he shall restore that which he took violently away, or the thing which he hath deceitfully gotten, or that which was delivered him to keep, or the lost thing which he found, 5 Or all that about which he hath sworn falsely; he shall even restore it in the principal, and shall add the fifth part more thereto, and give it unto him to whom it appertaineth, in the day of his trespass offering. 6 And he shall bring his trespass offering unto the Lord, a ram without blemish out of the flock, with thy estimation, for a trespass offering, unto the priest:
So, we see that to be angry without a cause can mean that we refuse to forgive or to make any attempt at reconciliation with the brother that we are supposed to love.
If you say 'Raca' to your brother, you will be in danger of the council. Jesus uses the word 'Raca' in this verse and it is found nowhere else in the writings about Jesus or in the writings of his Apostles. The word 'Raca' means 'empty one; worthless'. It is thought to be Chaldean in origin or possibly from the Hebrew word 'reyq' which means empty; worthless; vain fellow or man. The Hebrew word 'reyq' is found 10 times in the Old Testament.
The point that Jesus is making is that a man should not use slanderous words against his brother.
First, Jesus says to not be angry without a cause.
There is no reason to stay angry with your brother if you can resolve your differences and you should make an effort to reason out the differences. If you cannot resolve your anger by reasoning with your brother, then you are to forgive him anyway.
Next, Jesus says that you are not to bite at your brother with your tongue.
We find no new law here as we see that Jesus is teaching from the Psalms.
Psalm 15:1-4--LORD, who shall abide in thy tabernacle? who shall dwell in thy holy hill? [2] He that walketh uprightly, and worketh righteousness, and speaketh the truth in his heart. [3] He that backbiteth not with his tongue, nor doeth evil to his neighbour, nor taketh up a reproach against his neighbour. [4] In whose eyes a vile person is contemned; but he honoureth them that fear the LORD. He that sweareth to his own hurt, and changeth not.
If you call your brother a 'fool', you shall be in danger of hell fire.
The Greek word used by Jesus for 'fool' is 'moros', which means 'dull; stupid; blockhead; absurd; fool; foolish; and foolishness'.
The same condemnation of the law that commanded one not to slander, which we have already considered in the study of 'Raca', applies here as well.
We need to keep in mind all that Jesus has already said.
Jesus said that if they were angry without a cause, they would be in danger of judgment; if they said 'Raca' to their brother, they were in danger of the council and now Jesus uses that word 'but' again.
But if they were to say 'Thou fool', they would be in danger of eternal damnation in the fires of hell.
I am not sure exactly what Jesus is referring to with this statement.
Here is what I do know about what Jesus said; and that is that his statement about the fool is true and agreeable with the Law of Moses.
What is puzzling about the statement is that Jesus called the Pharisees fools after making this statement in his sermon on the mount.
Matthew 23:17-19-- Ye fools and blind: for whether is greater, the gold, or the temple that sanctifieth the gold? [18] And, Whosoever shall swear by the altar, it is nothing; but whosoever sweareth by the gift that is upon it, he is guilty. [19] Ye fools and blind: for whether is greater, the gift, or the altar that sanctifieth the gift?
What does this teach us about Matthew 5.22?
First, we know that it was not sinful for Jesus to call the Pharisees fools. Jesus uses the same word ‘moros’ in both passages. We must seek for some agreement of thought between the two passages in question.
Let us notice some of the things that the OT says about fools.
Proverbs 14:2-7-- He that walketh in his uprightness feareth the LORD: but he that is perverse in his ways despiseth him. [3] In the mouth of the foolish is a rod of pride: but the lips of the wise shall preserve them. [4] Where no oxen are, the crib is clean: but much increase is by the strength of the ox. [5] A faithful witness will not lie: but a false witness will utter lies. [6] A scorner seeketh wisdom, and findeth it not: but knowledge is easy unto him that understandeth. [7] Go from the presence of a foolish man, when thou perceivest not in him the lips of knowledge.
As the OT Scriptures describe the difference between a foolish and a wise man, it does not appear that it was sinful to identify the fool, but the sin was to persist in the relationship once that it became evident that he had no respect for God or his law. These fools were brothers and they were not to be fellowshipped as brethren once they made it known that they scorned God and his laws.
Proverbs 9:6-8-- Forsake the foolish, and live; and go in the way of understanding. [7] He that reproveth a scorner getteth to himself shame: and he that rebuketh a wicked man getteth himself a blot. [8] Reprove not a scorner, lest he hate thee: rebuke a wise man, and he will love thee.
As I have already stated, I am not sure what Jesus refers to here exactly, but the context may suggest something to us. The clue may be found in Proverbs 9.8, written above, or he may have reference to slander. In either case, one might end up before the courts.
In the context of this verse, Jesus is reminding them of how the Law and the Prophets teach them to not speak evil and to not slander one another. It may be that Jesus refers to a person who judges his brother as a fool without just cause.
This would be the highest form of slander.
Do not offer your gift on the altar until you are reconciled with your brother.
We have looked at this already in the sense that they were to reconcile themselves to their brothers before bringing the trespass offering to the priest in the tabernacle or temple.
Agree with your adversary quickly.
Very quickly we can see 2 things in these verses that do not appear to belong to the kingdom of Christ or to the law of Christ to the church of Christ today.
· We no longer have a Council of 70 elders that rule over the church.
· We no longer bring gifts to the altar.
This fact does not contradict the law against murder, but God knows that all sin begins with the first initial desire in the heart.
Murder originates with an evil desire in your heart against your brother.
Jesus speaks of judgment, the council, and hell fire and in that order.
We have seen that judgment came upon those who defied the Law of Moses, and we understand what hell fire means, but what concerns me in this passage is the mention made of the council and the bringing of the gifts to the altar.
Whether we understand all that Jesus is referring to from the law and the prophets, we can see that he is not giving law to the future church of Christ here in this passage. We no longer bring trespass offerings to the temple.
It is true that the Apostles do teach some of the same principles that are found in the Law of Moses, but that is not sufficient evidence to state that Jesus is teaching new law to the church here in the Sermon on the Mount.
Christ is our sin offering once and for all.
When we sin, we are not in danger of the council of the Sanhedrin court, but rather we are subject to reproof from the church, our brethren, who are commanded to reprove, rebuke, and exhort us and if we fail to heed the teachings of the Apostles to have no company or fellowship with us.
This chapter of our study has established the rule that just because Jesus said, 'But I say unto you' does not mean that he is giving a new law that is contrary to what had already been written in the law and the prophets.

CHAPTER 3.
If you have been wondering what all of this has to do with divorce and remarriage, or the law of Christ concerning marriage, please consider that you should not ever make a decision upon the meaning of a passage of scriptures without studying the surrounding context. I contend that you cannot understand which sayings of Jesus apply to your life today until you have learned to rightly divide the word of truth.
Now, we come to one of the passages in question that speak about ‘putting away’.
Matthew 5:27-32-- Ye have heard that it was said by them of old time, Thou shalt not commit adultery: [28] But I say unto you, That whosoever looketh on a woman to lust after her hath committed adultery with her already in his heart. [29] And if thy right eye offend thee, pluck it out, and cast it from thee: for it is profitable for thee that one of thy members should perish, and not that thy whole body should be cast into hell. [30] And if thy right hand offend thee, cut if off, and cast it from thee: for it is profitable for thee that one of thy members should perish, and not that thy whole body should be cast into hell. [31] It hath been said, Whosoever shall put away his wife, let him give her a writing of divorcement: [32] But I say unto you, That whosoever shall put away his wife, saving for the cause of fornication, causeth her to commit adultery: and whosoever shall marry her that is divorced committeth adultery.
We established in our last chapter that just because Jesus says the word 'but' does not mean that he is giving us new law. Hopefully, I can shed some more light on that thought here.
In our last chapter, we saw that Jesus was teaching about some related matters that were in the Law of Moses.
As we consider these teachings of Jesus, one rule must guide our search for understanding what he meant.
The rule is found in Matthew 5.17-19, where he told them not to break the very least of the Laws of Moses and to not teach anyone else to break them. There he said that he came to fulfill the law instead of abolishing it.
To be righteous, let us allow Jesus to say what he means to say and not what we want him to say.
To be righteous, we must not array the scriptures of Matthew 5.17-19 against Matthew 5.27-32 and cause Jesus to contradict himself.
To get around this, the false teachers tell us that Jesus was not teaching anything contrary to the Law of Moses publicly, but was instead teaching his disciples things that would not come into effect until the Day of Pentecost.
This cannot be the case because of the multitude of disciples present to hear the Sermon on the Mount and Jesus taught the same teaching in Matthew 19.9 to the Pharisees.
At any rate, to make such a statement violates Matthew 5.17-19 where Jesus told his disciples that they should not only obey the Law of Moses, but in addition they should not teach anyone else to break the Law of Moses.
As we consider this passage on marriage and divorce, Jesus begins by telling them what had commonly been heard in their learning of the Jewish law and that was the 7th of the 10 commandments given on Mt. Sinai to Moses.
The Lord did not expound to Moses on the 7th Commandment as he did about making graven images or keeping the Sabbath day Holy.
He just simply said, 'Thou shalt not commit adultery.'

BUT I SAY UNTO YOU

MATTHEW 5.28--[28] But I say unto you, That whosoever looketh on a woman to lust after her hath committed adultery with her already in his heart.
So let us consider now the nature of the 'but I say unto you' of Jesus in Matthew 5.28.
In this phrase, there are two words that we want to keep in mind as we study for the meaning.
One is 'looketh on' and the other is 'to lust'.
Since Jesus is discussing the 7th Commandment of the 10 Commandments given to Moses on Mt. Sinai, we must turn in the Bible to read the Law of Moses as it was originally given.

Exodus 20:14-17-- Thou shalt not commit adultery. [15] Thou shalt not steal. [16] Thou shalt not bear false witness against thy neighbour. [17] Thou shalt not covet thy neighbour's house, thou shalt not covet thy neighbour's wife, nor his manservant, nor his maidservant, nor his ox, nor his ass, nor any thing that is thy neighbour's.
Here in the Law of Moses, we see that it is commanded specifically not to commit adultery. It is the 7th Commandment.
The exact words of Jesus, as he used them here in Matthew 5.28, are not found here in this passage, but the meaning is found in that passage.
As we saw in our last lesson, when Jesus quoted the Law of Moses and then went on to say 'But I say unto you', he was giving more information that related to that commandment.
In verse 28, Jesus was expounding upon the total process that happens when one sins. The sin under consideration, found in verse 28 is the sin of coveting the neighbor's wife.
Jesus refers to the situation where a man looks on a woman to lust after her.
When a man does look at a woman and lust after her, he is coveting or desiring to have his neighbor's wife.
When a man covet's his neighbor's wife, he is wanting to have sex with his neighbor's wife.
The meaning of the word 'covet' is 'to delight in'.

DAVID

In addition to being a sin, for him to covet his neighbor's wife, the danger is in the next step.
This is what happened to David.
2 Samuel 11:2 And it came to pass in an eveningtide, that David arose from off his bed, and walked upon the roof of the king's house: and from the roof he saw a woman washing herself; and the woman was very beautiful to look upon.
We know what happened next after King David saw the beauty of Bathsheba.
He first committed adultery in his heart and then committed the physical act of sin.
Notice the faithful servant of Job.
Job did not commit adultery in his heart.
He is telling all of the things that he had done good in his service to God and then he tells all of the things that he was sure that he had NOT done against the law of God.
Job 31:1 I made a covenant with mine eyes; why then should I think upon a maid?
In the beginning of this particular passage, Job says that since he already had a wife, what reason or purpose would there be in looking upon another to desire her.
Then a few scriptures later, he points out that he has not coveted his neighbor's wife to lie with her, but he says that if he has, then the judges can condemn him and punish him.
Job 31:9-12-- If mine heart have been deceived by a woman, or if I have laid wait at my neighbour's door; [10] Then let my wife grind unto another, and let others bow down upon her. [11] For this is an heinous crime; yea, it is an iniquity to be punished by the judges. [12] For it is a fire that consumeth to destruction, and would root out all mine increase.
Job understood that if he lusted after his neighbor's wife that it would light a fire that would bring him to destruction.
The rule that we use to determine if we are subject to a law is to study the scriptures and see if the Apostles taught it to the church of Christ.
We can see that the Apostles, also made the same point that Jesus makes here in Matthew 5.27-28, to the church.
It is against the law of Christ to covet or to commit adultery, as well as a lot of other things that were sins during the time of the 1st Covenant.
1 Corinthians 6:9-11-- 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, [10] Nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners, shall inherit the kingdom of God. [11] 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.
When the same sin, identified in the Law of Christ, existed in the Law of Moses, and we can learn about those sins from our study of the Old Testament scriptures.
We have seen that the first step in committing adultery is to lust after a woman.
The sin of lust is condemned in the law of Christ as much as in the Law of Moses.
James 1:14-16--But every man is tempted, when he is drawn away of his own lust, and enticed. [15] Then when lust hath conceived, it bringeth forth sin: and sin, when it is finished, bringeth forth death. [16] Do not err, my beloved brethren.
So the law of Christ teaches us that when we lust after something that is unlawful, that we are in extreme danger of violating the law of Christ by continuing on and giving in to that lust.
There are 2 steps in lust and 3 if we are overcome by lust.
The first is the enticement or the temptation to disobey the laws of God. In this first step, we are just tested.
The 2nd step is our immediate rejection of that temptation or we begin to consider how good it might be to do the sin, or how pleasurable it might be if we did it, or how good it might feel. This is the conception of lust that James talks about; this is when we begin to covet the sinful thing.
If we continue on with our fantasy to its completion, it brings spiritual death to us because we have rejected God. If we do not repent, we then will be lost eternally.
In the Old Testament, King Solomon wrote that the escape from adultery is to always keep the law of God ever present in the heart.
God tells us how to keep our heart from lusting after our neighbor's wife.
Proverbs 6:20-33-- My son, keep thy father's commandment, and forsake not the law of thy mother: [21] Bind them continually upon thine heart, and tie them about thy neck. [22] When thou goest, it shall lead thee; when thou sleepest, it shall keep thee; and when thou awakest, it shall talk with thee. [23] For the commandment is a lamp; and the law is light; and reproofs of instruction are the way of life: [24] To keep thee from the evil woman, from the flattery of the tongue of a strange woman. [25] Lust not after her beauty in thine heart; neither let her take thee with her eyelids. [26] For by means of a whorish woman a man is brought to a piece of bread: and the adulteress will hunt for the precious life. [27] Can a man take fire in his bosom, and his clothes not be burned? [28] Can one go upon hot coals, and his feet not be burned? [29] So he that goeth in to his neighbour's wife; whosoever toucheth her shall not be innocent. [30] Men do not despise a thief, if he steal to satisfy his soul when he is hungry; [31] But if he be found, he shall restore sevenfold; he shall give all the substance of his house. [32] But whoso committeth adultery with a woman lacketh understanding: he that doeth it destroyeth his own soul. [33] A wound and dishonour shall he get; and his reproach shall not be wiped away.
This is the type of wisdom that Jesus is imparting to his disciples about the law regarding adultery.
He is simply showing them that adultery is a sin, but lust is the first sin of adultery.
Jesus is not teaching new law in this passage regarding adultery.
He is teaching the fulness of the Law of Moses so that they will understand it better.
PLUCK OUT YOUR EYE-CUT OFF YOUR HAND
Notice what Jesus tells them next.
Matthew 5:29-30-- And if thy right eye offend thee, pluck it out, and cast it from thee: for it is profitable for thee that one of thy members should perish, and not that thy whole body should be cast into hell. [30] And if thy right hand offend thee, cut if off, and cast it from thee: for it is profitable for thee that one of thy members should perish, and not that thy whole body should be cast into hell.

He tells them that it would be better to punch out the eye or cut off the hand that causes the sin in their life than to lose their souls.
· When teaching the word of God, there are some people that will tell you that the commandment of the Lord is just too hard for them to do.
It appears to me that Jesus is telling them that the sin starts with the eye and is completed with the hand.
The lust of the eyes and flesh is also condemned in the law of Christ.
1 John 2:16-17-- For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world. [17] And the world passeth away, and the lust thereof: but he that doeth the will of God abideth for ever.
Man could have avoided all sins against the covenant of God from the beginning of time to the end of time if humanity were able to put away the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life.
In the beginning Eve sinned because of the lust of the eyes, the lust of the flesh, and the pride of life.
Genesis 3:6-- And when the woman saw that the tree was good for food, and that it was pleasant to the eyes, and a tree to be desired to make one wise, she took of the fruit thereof, and did eat, and gave also unto her husband with her; and he did eat.
Now consider the recommendation of Jesus to those who could not control their eyes desire to sin or the sinful action of the hand.
We have read the account of Matthew and there is a similar occasion recorded by Matthew which also mentions the foot.
Jesus used this same teaching to his disciples on another occasion. On the occasion recorded in chapter 18, Jesus had told them to not offend one of the least of those who were believers in Christ.
Matthew 18. 5-9---5. And whoso shall receive one such little child in my name receiveth me. 6. 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. 7. Woe unto the world because of offences! for it must needs be that offences come; but woe to that man by whom the offence cometh! 8. Wherefore if thy hand or thy foot offend thee, cut them off, and cast them from thee: it is better for thee to enter into life halt or maimed, rather than having two hands or two feet to be cast into everlasting fire. 9. And if thine eye offend thee, pluck it out, and cast it from thee: it is better for thee to enter into life with one eye, rather than having two eyes to be cast into hell fire.
I want you to notice that in this account, Jesus said 'woe to that man by whom the offence cometh! Wherefore if thy hand or foot offend thee, cut them off.
It appears here that the hand, the foot, and eye represent the cause of the offences rather than the actual limbs being cut off.
Should you and I, as members of the church of Christ, pluck out our eyes or cut off our hands so that we could stop lusting and sinning?
It is an obvious statement that it would be better to maim our body and go to Heaven than it would be to keep the eye, hand, or foot and go to hell.
From the books of the Old Testament there is no such commandment ever given as a specific commandment, nor in the New Testament.
If Jesus is teaching a lesson here that a person should put away from himself those things, people, or associations that might cause him to stumble; if this is what Jesus is actually teaching in figurative speech, we can see this in the OT.
In the OT we find that the congregation was supposed to stone to death certain sinners who were an abomination to God, such as adulterers and adulteresses, idolaters, such as the time that all of Baal's prophets were killed.
One particular instance that teaches this principle in part can be found in Deuteronomy 13.
The chapter begins by saying that if a prophet or a dreamer of dreams gives a sign and it comes to pass and then tells them to worship false gods, that prophet or dreamer shall be put to death.
In that chapter, if they heard of one of the cities that had quit serving God to worship Baal, and upon searching, it was found to be true, they were to smite them with the sword, to kill all in the city and all the cattle.
I want to read you part of Deuteronomy 13 that illustrates the principle that Jesus teaches here in our text about cutting off a hand or foot or plucking out of the eye.
Deuteronomy 13.6-11-- 6. If thy brother, the son of thy mother, or thy son, or thy daughter, or the wife of thy bosom, or thy friend, which is as thine own soul, entice thee secretly, saying, Let us go and serve other gods, which thou hast not known, thou, nor thy fathers; 7. Namely, of the gods of the people which are round about you, nigh unto thee, or far off from thee, from the one end of the earth even unto the other end of the earth; 8. Thou shalt not consent unto him, nor hearken unto him; neither shall thine eye pity him, neither shalt thou spare, neither shalt thou conceal him: 9. But thou shalt surely kill him; thine hand shall be first upon him to put him to death, and afterwards the hand of all the people. 10. And thou shalt stone him with stones, that he die; because he hath sought to thrust thee away from the Lord thy God, which brought thee out of the land of Egypt, from the house of bondage. 11. And all Israel shall hear, and fear, and shall do no more any such wickedness as this is among you.
I want you to notice who the person was supposed to kill by stoning.
v Brother
v Step-Brother
v Son
v Daughter
v Wife
v Closest Friend
Moses said not to pity the person guilty of enticing secretly another to worship false gods and to not spare or hide the person.
There were many things then, just as there are now that a person could do with the eyes, the hands, the feet, or the tongue that would cause a person to lose his soul.
These people were not the right eye, hand, or foot, but were the closest people to the person that was offended by an enticement to sin; so here we see that they were commanded to put away from themselves those who blasphemed the Word of God.
I do believe that Jesus is speaking in a figurative way here, since we find no evidence in the Law of Moses to indicate that a person was to pluck out their right eye, or to cut off their hand.
We cannot say that this is new law to the church.
The Apostles in the New Testament never taught it.
The word 'offend' refers to 'an occasion or cause of stumbling'.
If we take this passage in the figurative sense, we can see how it would agree with the Law of Moses.
· We should always take a scripture in the literal sense unless it makes no sense that way.
We should consider the context of the passage here and the purpose of the teaching of Jesus. What was the point that Jesus was teaching?
· Jesus is discussing the 7th commandment given and expounding on that law.
He is warning of the dangers that lead up to the actual act of adultery.
· I believe that Jesus is saying to his disciples that they need to do whatever it takes to stop them from sinning.
Was it necessary for them to pluck our their eyes or cut off their hands to prevent them from sinning?
The right eye and the hand is referred to by Jesus here as 'one of thy members’, and so could rightly refer to a person of the congregation that was bringing sin upon Israel and causing others to sin.
This agrees with another statement made by Jesus.
Matthew 16:26 For what is a man profited, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul?
In the New Testament, Paul refers to the church of Christ as the body of Christ and members in particular.
I Corinthians 12.26-27--26. And whether one member suffer, all the members suffer with it; or one member be honoured, all the members rejoice with it. [27] Now ye are the body of Christ, and members in particular.
The congregation of the Hebrew children was supposed to be one body or nation serving God just like the church of Christ.
Now, as we get ready to study the next passage about divorce, let us keep in mind what we have already learned in this lesson.
Jesus teaches his disciples about the necessity of keeping oneself from sin and the temptations of fleshly lust.
Matthew 5.31-32--[31] It hath been said, Whosoever shall put away his wife, let him give her a writing of divorcement: [32] But I say unto you, That whosoever shall put away his wife, saving for the cause of fornication, causeth her to commit adultery: and whosoever shall marry her that is divorced committeth adultery.

We shall see that Jesus is not teaching any new law regarding marriage and divorce to the church of Christ in this passage.
We shall see that no Apostle ever commanded a man to give his wife a writing of divorcement.
We shall prove that Jesus continues to honor his dedication to keep the Law of Moses and to teach the Law of Moses until it was fulfilled, that is until his death, burial, and resurrection and the coming of his church on the Day of Pentecost.
We have already studied the 7th Commandment that was given to Moses to not commit adultery, or to break the marriage ties by having illicit sex with someone other than the mate.

LAW OF DIVORCE IN THE OLD TESTAMENT
Now we will look at the law concerning divorce.
Moses gave the law regarding divorce in Deuteronomy 24.
Deuteronomy 24:1-4-- 1 When a man hath taken a wife, and married her, and it come to pass that she find no favour in his eyes, because he hath found some uncleanness in her: then let him write her a bill of divorcement, and give it in her hand, and send her out of his house. 2 And when she is departed out of his house, she may go and be another man's wife. 3 And if the latter husband hate her, and write her a bill of divorcement, and giveth it in her hand, and sendeth her out of his house; or if the latter husband die, which took her to be his wife; 4 Her former husband, which sent her away, may not take her again to be his wife, after that she is defiled; for that is abomination before the Lord: and thou shalt not cause the land to sin, which the Lord thy God giveth thee for an inheritance.
Verse 4 of the divorce law says that if she goes to another man, she is defiled to the point that her husband cannot take her back.
With this condemnation, verse 2 is a little confusing in the wording. If we do not understand the entire passage, we will read this part that says 'she may go and be another man's wife' and take the word 'may' as approval on God's part.
God would not approve of her going in to another man than her husband and then say that she was defiled in verse 4. To interpret this passage in this manner is forcing a contradiction on the scriptures.

In the Literal Bible with Strong's definitions, the 2nd verse reads like this: And if she leaves his house and goes and becomes another man's.
The New King James Bible, which is a new widely, accepted version of the Bible reads almost exactly the same way as the literal words read.
[ New King James]
Deuteronomy 24:2 "when she has departed from his house, and goes and becomes another man's wife,
This reading is also found in the Revised Standard and several other newer versions of the scriptures.
By going back to the original language, we can see that verse 2 does not actually disagree with verse 4 at all.
God is not saying that he approves of her going to live with another man.
God has provided a means of divorce so that if she does defile herself by going to live with another man, she will not be stoned to death for the sin of adultery. This law was given because of the hardness of their hearts.
Even without looking at the original Hebrew language, we can still see in the law of divorce in Deuteronomy 24 that a writing of divorcement was allowed by the 1st husband for some uncleanness and because she did not find favour in his eyes.
The Law of Moses does not allow a man to divorce his wife for the cause of fornication, and neither does Matthew 5.32, nor Matthew 19.9.
The Law of Moses does not approve of the separated wife taking a 2nd husband. She is defiled if she does marry again after the divorce.
The Law of Moses does not approve of the 2nd marriage of the wife that is given a divorce, but does not consider her sin one worthy of death.
The Law of Moses does not allow a man to divorce his wife for the cause of adultery.
Consider with me the passage that proves these statements to be true.

Deut. 22:13-22-- If any man take a wife, and go in unto her, and hate her, [14] And give occasions of speech against her, and bring up an evil name upon her, and say, I took this woman, and when I came to her, I found her not a maid: [15] Then shall the father of the damsel, and her mother, take and bring forth the tokens of the damsel's virginity unto the elders of the city in the gate: [16] And the damsel's father shall say unto the elders, I gave my daughter unto this man to wife, and he hateth her; [17] And, lo, he hath given occasions of speech against her, saying, I found not thy daughter a maid; and yet these are the tokens of my daughter's virginity. And they shall spread the cloth before the elders of the city. [18] And the elders of that city shall take that man and chastise him; [19] And they shall amerce him in an hundred shekels of silver, and give them unto the father of the damsel, because he hath brought up an evil name upon a virgin of Israel: and she shall be his wife; he may not put her away all his days. [20] But if this thing be true, and the tokens of virginity be not found for the damsel: [21] Then they shall bring out the damsel to the door of her father's house, and the men of her city shall stone her with stones that she die: because she hath wrought folly in Israel, to play the whore in her father's house: so shalt thou put evil away from among you. [22] If a man be found lying with a woman married to an husband, then they shall both of them die, both the man that lay with the woman, and the woman: so shalt thou put away evil from Israel.
If a man marries a woman and finds that she is not a virgin and it can be proved to be so, then she is guilty of a vile crime in Israel and is to be stoned to death.
In verse 22, we see that if a man is caught sleeping with a married woman, both the man and the woman shall die for their evil sin of adultery.
Matthew 5:[32] But I say unto you, That whosoever shall put away his wife, saving for the cause of fornication, causeth her to commit adultery: and whosoever shall marry her that is divorced committeth adultery.
There are a couple of ways of seeing that what Jesus said was the Law of Moses.
We have seen that the woman who was found not a virgin when married was stoned to death and how that the adulterer and adulteress were stoned to death.
If the wife is guilty of fornication, the husband will put her away by death and thus she would not be alive to commit fornication.
We have seen in Deuteronomy 24.1-4 the same thing that Jesus says here.
If the husband gives her a writing of divorcement because she finds no favour in his eyes and for some uncleanness, and she goes and becomes another man's wife, she is defiled.
Jesus said that whosoever shall marry her that is divorced committeth adultery.
We can understand this passage better if we notice the punctuation used in the writing.
That whosoever shall put away his wife, saving for the cause of fornication, causeth her to commit adultery: {notice the colon here}
and whosoever shall marry her that is divorced committeth adultery.
We might also note that in the Law of Moses found in Deuteronomy 24, it was the man who could put away, not the woman. We note that in Matthew 5.32, it was the man only who could put away.
According to the Law of Moses, we could rightly say it this way: Whosoever shall put away his wife causeth her to commit adultery unless he is putting her away because she has committed fornication and in such a case he will not cause her to commit adultery because she will be stoned to death.
We find no such law regarding the death penalty for fornication in the Law of Christ, which is shown in Romans 7 and I Corinthians 7 and in Ephesians 5.
We find that the law of Christ condemns adultery and fornication and says that they are unrighteous and cannot enter the kingdom of Heaven.
So then, if a man or woman has divorced their mate and married again, the Law of Christ condemns them as guilty of adultery.
CHAPTER 4.
FROM THE BEGINNING IT WAS NOT SO
· In the beginning of time, God created man, male and female created he them.
· God intended for a man to have one wife and live with her until one of them died.
God first created Adam from the dust of the earth and saw that there was no animal suited to be a mate for him, so God caused Adam to go into a deep sleep and took a rib from Adam and created his wife and Adam called her Eve, the mother of all living.
Adam said that she was bone of his bone and flesh of his flesh.
Adam could have no more denied Eve than he could have denied himself, as she was of him literally.
God did not create two wives for Adam, nor did he create other women so that Adam could change wives if he got tired of Eve or mad at her. The same is true of Adam. God did not create 2 men so that Eve could cheat on Adam.
They were truly one flesh.
Genesis 2:24 Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh.
We have no record of God's law regarding marriage being defiled until Lamech, who took two wives. This happened 6 generations after Adam and Eve.
Genesis 4:19-- And Lamech took unto him two wives: the name of the one was Adah, and the name of the other Zillah.
The men of those early days lived 800-900 years old.
I don't know for sure, but I do know that over 1,000 years passed before we have a record of anyone that took 2 wives.
By the time of Noah, the earth was so corrupt and immoral that God had to destroy all but the 8 souls saved by the ark.
The people became so wicked in their adulteries and other sins that God was sorry that he had made mankind.
Genesis 6.2-6—2-- That the sons of God saw the daughters of men that they were fair; and they took them wives of all which they chose. 3. And the Lord said, My spirit shall not always strive with man, for that he also is flesh: yet his days shall be an hundred and twenty years. 4. There were giants in the earth in those days; and also after that, when the sons of God came in unto the daughters of men, and they bare children to them, the same became mighty men which were of old, men of renown. 5. And God saw that the wickedness of man was great in the earth, and that every imagination of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continually. 6. And it repented the Lord that he had made man on the earth, and it grieved him at his heart.
This covers the period that is called the Anti-diluvium Period before the great flood.
God never intended for man to be sexually immoral and he punished them severely.
Today, the divorce rate is at an all time high percentage and there is a good explanation for the cause of it.
A hundred years ago, divorce in the United States was something that was only heard of among the most degenerate and wicked people.
Today, divorce is not unheard of among the members of those who call themselves Christians.
Ministers and elders of the church are supportive of divorced couples and have separate programs that help them find a suitable mate, so that they can remarry.
Long gone is the pretense that to remarry after a divorce is sinful or in violation of the will of God.
The putting away of one husband or wife and the taking of another is not new in the history of the world. As we see in the Old Testament scriptures, adultery and homosexuality was common at certain periods of man's history.
Only when man, as a society, returns to the will of God do we see the return to the one man and one woman becoming and staying one flesh as in the very beginning.

Just as we have noticed the passages in the book of Genesis, we see that Jesus taught the same truth that Moses revealed in his discussion with the Pharisees as recorded in the gospel of Matthew.
Matthew 19:4-6--= 4) And he answered and said unto them, Have ye not read, that he which made them at the beginning made them male and female, 5.) And said, For this cause shall a man leave father and mother, and shall cleave to his wife: and they twain shall be one flesh? 6) Wherefore they are no more twain, but one flesh. What therefore God hath joined together, let not man put asunder.
Where did Jesus expect that they had read this?
We have already noted this passage from Genesis 2.24 exactly as Jesus refers to it in this passage in Matthew.
PATRIARCHAL LAW:
Jesus refers the Pharisees back to the original law of marriage given in the beginning to the Patriarchs.
Jesus points out to them a commandment that man must not break apart or divorce the man or woman who have been joined together by God.
Mark gives almost the exact same account in Mark 10.
Mark 10.1-6-- 1. And he arose from thence, and cometh into the coasts of Judaea by the farther side of Jordan: and the people resort unto him again; and, as he was wont, he taught them again. 2. And the Pharisees came to him, and asked him, Is it lawful for a man to put away his wife? tempting him. 3. And he answered and said unto them, What did Moses command you? 4. And they said, Moses suffered to write a bill of divorcement, and to put her away. 5. And Jesus answered and said unto them, For the hardness of your heart he wrote you this precept. 6. But from the beginning of the creation God made them male and female. 7. For this cause shall a man leave his father and mother, and cleave to his wife; 8. And they twain shall be one flesh: so then they are no more twain, but one flesh. 9. What therefore God hath joined together, let not man put asunder.
I want you to consider some main points that will cause you to question men's teaching on this subject today.
Pharisees asked him a question that he answers in both Matthew 19 and in Mark 10.
Jesus is discussing the then current marriage law of God in existent at that time; not some future laws of prophesy.
Why do the scriptures point out that the question that the Pharisees asked of Jesus was a temptation? How were they tempting him with such a question?
The temptation is: The Pharisees thought that they could get Jesus to say something contrary to the Mosaic Law. If they could get him to teach a marriage law that was contrary or offensive the Mosaic Law, they could accuse him of blaspheming the Law of Moses and use that against him.
· What did the Pharisees ask Jesus? They said,
'is it lawful' or in effect they were saying 'is the law of Moses regarding divorce lawful according to the way you view divorce and remarriage?'
Jesus asked them, 'What did Moses command YOU?'
Here we see that they are still talking about what the Mosaic Law taught about divorce, and to the Pharisees specifically in this passage.
What did the Pharisees think that Moses' Law commanded?
'And they said, Moses suffered to write a bill of divorcement, and to put her away.'
Notice that they do not reveal all of what Moses commanded here.
· In just a little while I will show you exactly what Moses commanded, but it is important that we understand the mind of the Pharisee and what he thought the Law taught.
Who is Jesus speaking to in Mark 10.5, where it says that Jesus answered them and then gives his answer?
He was speaking to the Pharisees.
Is he referring to some future law to the Church of Christ or is he simply answering a question posed to him about the Mosaic Law regarding divorce?
Mark 10. 5. And Jesus answered and said unto them, For the hardness of your heart he wrote you this precept.
What about the next verse? Is he still talking to the Jew about his Law of Moses?
Here he reminds them of the Patriarchal Law given in the very beginning with the first marriage of Adam and Eve and that applies to all times and is for all marriages.
Mark 10. 6. But from the beginning of the creation God made them male and female. 7. For this cause shall a man leave his father and mother, and cleave to his wife; 8. And they twain shall be one flesh: so then they are no more twain, but one flesh. 9. What therefore God hath joined together, let not man put asunder.
I want you to notice that Jesus does not offend the Law of Moses here. He does not teach a new doctrine here.
He reminds them of the original intent of God in the Garden of Eden and during the Anti-Diluvium Age and the law that God established in the book of Genesis from the very beginning.
This was a law that they recognized as well as the Mosaic Law.
**Now I want you to follow with me as we enter the Christian Age and see what the Apostle Paul had to say about marriage.
Romans 7.1-6-- 1. Know ye not, brethren, (for I speak to them that know the law,) how that the law hath dominion over a man as long as he liveth? 2. For the woman which hath an husband is bound by the law to her husband so long as he liveth; but if the husband be dead, she is loosed from the law of her husband. 3. So then if, while her husband liveth, she be married to another man, she shall be called an adulteress: but if her husband be dead, she is free from that law; so that she is no adulteress, though she be married to another man. 4. Wherefore, my brethren, ye also are become dead to the law by the body of Christ; that ye should be married to another, even to him who is raised from the dead, that we should bring forth fruit unto God. 5. For when we were in the flesh, the motions of sins, which were by the law, did work in our members to bring forth fruit unto death. 6. But now we are delivered from the law, that being dead wherein we were held; that we should serve in newness of spirit, and not in the oldness of the letter
Who is Paul speaking to in this writing?
Unlike the gospel of Matthew or Mark, which are historical writings that record the various conversations that took place, this is an epistle or letter to the church of Christ. To find out who he is writing to we must go back to the very first chapter.
Romans 1.6-7à6. Among whom are ye also the called of Jesus Christ: 7. To all that be in Rome, beloved of God, called to be saints: Grace to you and peace from God our Father, and the Lord Jesus Christ.
Paul writes his letter to all of the Christians that are in Rome. There were both Jewish Christians there and Gentile Christians and Gentiles who had converted to Judaism and then obeyed the gospel there. Rome had a population of Jews who had moved there when the Roman Empire took over Palestine. At this writing of Paul, they are still in power and will be for the duration of the writing of all of the New Testament.
What law is Paul referring to?
He is referring to the law of Moses. (for I speak to them that know the law,) In the chapter before this in Romans 6.14-23, Paul pointed out to them that they were no longer bound to obey the law of Moses, but they were not made free from their obligation to be righteous and live moral lives.
What does the Apostle Paul say that the Mosaic Law taught concerning marriage?
Romans 7.2-4à[2.] For the woman which hath an husband is bound by the law to her husband so long as he liveth; but if the husband be dead, she is loosed from the law of her husband. 3. So then if, while her husband liveth, she be married to another man, she shall be called an adulteress: but if her husband be dead, she is free from that law; so that she is no adulteress, though she be married to another man.
This is the Mosaic Law that Jesus was discussing with the Pharisees in Matthew 19.9 and Mark 10.1-6, and with his disciples in Matthew 5.32.
Did the Apostle Paul believe that under the Law of Moses that a woman could have a husband and be married to another man?
Romans 7.3. So then if, while her husband liveth, she be married to another man, she shall be called an adulteress:
Paul continues on with his teaching to show a figure of the marriage bond representing the legal right to no longer be committed to the Law of Moses and thus allowing them to become committed to the Law of Christ.
Israel was married to the Law of Moses until their death or the death of the Law of Moses.
When Jesus died on the cross of Calvary, he fulfilled the law and the prophets and the Law of Moses was completed.

Colossians 2.10-14--10. And ye are complete in him, which is the head of all principality and power: 11. In whom also ye are circumcised with the circumcision made without hands, in putting off the body of the sins of the flesh by the circumcision of Christ: 12. Buried with him in baptism, wherein also ye are risen with him through the faith of the operation of God, who hath raised him from the dead. 13. And you, being dead in your sins and the uncircumcision of your flesh, hath he quickened together with him, having forgiven you all trespasses; 14. Blotting out the handwriting of ordinances that was against us, which was contrary to us, and took it out of the way, nailing it to his cross;
If the Jewish person had forsaken their obedience to the Law of Moses before Jesus died on the cross of Calvary, they would have been committing spiritual adultery.
But, once their husband, the Mosaic Law, died, they could marry a new bridegroom, Jesus Christ.
Romans 7.4-6--4. Wherefore, my brethren, ye also are become dead to the law by the body of Christ; that ye should be married to another, even to him who is raised from the dead, that we should bring forth fruit unto God. 5. For when we were in the flesh, the motions of sins, which were by the law, did work in our members to bring forth fruit unto death. 6. But now we are delivered from the law, that being dead wherein we were held; that we should serve in newness of spirit, and not in the oldness of the letter

Therefore, we see the Apostle Paul using the figure of a perfect marriage and one corrupted and defiled by taking a second husband to point out to the Jews in Rome that their first husband was dead and they could safely be married to Jesus without being an adulteress.
The Apostle Paul did not believe that the law taught that a woman could be married to a second husband after she was put away without committing adultery.
He recognized that marriage to a second husband was only possible if the first husband were dead.
No other reason, except death, is given and we must recognize the inspiration of Paul in this matter. He was an ardent student of Judaism himself, having studying it in school and a disciple of Judaism until he was converted. ( Acts 9.1-19; Acts 22.1-16; Romans 11.1; II Corinthians 12.22; Phil. 3.3-6)
Now that we have seen Paul's understanding of the Law of Moses regarding marriage and he was qualified to do so, let us go back once more to see if we can find agreement between what Paul says and what Jesus has to say about it.
We have already seen in Mark 10 that Jesus is having a discussion with the Pharisees, but that is not the passage that the false teachers turn to and quote.
Look at Matthew 19.
Matthew 19.1-9--1. And it came to pass, that when Jesus had finished these sayings, he departed from Galilee, and came into the coasts of Judaea beyond Jordan; 2. And great multitudes followed him; and he healed them there. 3. The Pharisees also came unto him, tempting him, and saying unto him, Is it lawful for a man to put away his wife for every cause? 4. And he answered and said unto them, Have ye not read, that he which made them at the beginning made them male and female, 5. And said, For this cause shall a man leave father and mother, and shall cleave to his wife: and they twain shall be one flesh? 6. Wherefore they are no more twain, but one flesh. What therefore God hath joined together, let not man put asunder. 7. They say unto him, Why did Moses then command to give a writing of divorcement, and to put her away? 8. He saith unto them, Moses because of the hardness of your hearts suffered you to put away your wives: but from the beginning it was not so. 9. And I say unto you, Whosoever shall put away his wife, except it be for fornication, and shall marry another, committeth adultery: and whoso marrieth her which is put away doth commit adultery.
Who came tempting Jesus about the law?
Verse 3 says the Pharisees, were the most devout students of the Mosaic Law.
What question do they ask here?
They said, “Is it lawful to put away a wife for every cause?”
Jesus does not teach contrary to the Law of Moses with his answer. He answers by asking them a question at the first. He said, have ye not read [Gen. 2.24] that they are one flesh and that man should not divide or divorce that which God has put together?
The phrase 'joined together' in the Greek means 'yoked together in marriage'.
Matthew 19.7. They say unto him, Why did Moses then command to give a writing of divorcement, and to put her away?
The Pharisees understood the marriage law which had been from the beginning and they had read Genesis 2 and knew its meaning.
Remember that they are tempting him to give a new law that would be contrary to the Mosaic Law and thus would have grounds to convict him of blasphemy.
Keep in your minds here that Jesus is now getting ready to answer in response to a question of the Law of Moses.
Matthew 19. 8. He saith unto them, Moses because of the hardness of your hearts suffered you to put away your wives: but from the beginning it was not so.
· Again he reminds them of the original law of God regarding marriage in Genesis 2. In this period, which preceded His death, Jesus NEVER taught anything contrary to the Mosaic Law.
What was the 'hardness of heart' that Jesus refers to?
Under the Mosaic Law, if he did not like his wife for her cooking, or clothes she wore, or her weight, he could put her out of his house without any divorce and to support herself and her children, she would most likely go and live with another man. When she did that, he had a legal right to accuse her of adultery and have her stoned to death and then he could remarry the woman he has had his eye on without sin.
What the bill of divorcement did was to prevent the injustice of stoning her to death for something that she was forced into and gives her the legal right to take another husband, but not the moral right.
Now is the time to look at that law in the Old Testament.
Deuteronomy 24.1-4 [1] When a man hath taken a wife, and married her, and it come to pass that she find no favour in his eyes, because he hath found some uncleanness in her: then let him write her a bill of divorcement, and give it in her hand, and send her out of his house. [2] And when she is departed out of his house, she may go and be another man's wife. [3] And if the latter husband hate her, and write her a bill of divorcement, and giveth it in her hand, and sendeth her out of his house; or if the latter husband die, which took her to be his wife; [4] Her former husband, which sent her away, may not take her again to be his wife, after that she is defiled; for that is abomination before the Lord: and thou shalt not cause the land to sin, which the Lord thy God giveth thee for an inheritance.
Verse 4 of the divorce law says that if she goes to another man, she is defiled and an abomination to the Lord.
We saw this in our last lesson on this, that verse 2 seems to contradict verse 4, but if we read it in the literal interpretation of the Greek, we see that God is saying that she may go and be another man's wife in the sense that she might marry again.
The literal translation of Deuteronomy 24.2 says 'And if she leaves his house and goes and becomes another man's.'
God does not approve of her going to live with another man.
God provides a legal way to prevent her death if she chooses to defile herself with another man.
Nowhere does the Law of Moses allow a man to divorce his wife for the cause of fornication. See Deuteronomy 22.13-21 and you will see that the one guilty of fornication was stoned to death.
The Law of Moses does not allow a man to divorce his wife for the cause of adultery. She must be stoned to death.(Deuteronomy 22.22)
Now we come to the scripture that is misused and misinterpreted by most of the church leaders of our day.
Matthew 19.9. And I say unto you, Whosoever shall put away his wife, except it be for fornication, and shall marry another, committeth adultery: and whoso marrieth her which is put away doth commit adultery.
Jesus and Paul are in complete agreement with one another in their understanding of the Law of Marriage from the beginning and as it relates to being righteous as a Jew living under the 1st Covenant or Mosaic Law.
Keep in mind that we have shown that Jesus is answering a question about the Law of Moses that has been put to him by the Pharisees. They asked him why then did Moses give a writing of the bill of divorcement. And we see the answer of Jesus, ending with Matthew 19.9. When he says, 'And I say unto you', the you is the Pharisees. (Matthew 19.3,7)
Did the Law of Moses allow a man to divorce his wife for the cause of fornication? NO. [Deuteronomy 22.13-21].
She was to be stoned to death, so the husband would then be free to choose another wife. Keep this in mind as you read.
Did the Law of Moses allow a man to divorce his wife for the cause of adultery, which some today call fornication?
NO! See Deuteronomy 22.22.
If we keep this in mind we can read this passage as 'Whosoever shall put away his wife (divorce his wife), except for fornication (and you and I both know that divorce is not allowed for fornication, but the death sentence), and shall marry another, committeth adultery; and whoso marrieth her which is put away (divorced) doth commit adultery.
Since we, the Pharisees, Jesus, and Paul all understand that fornication or adultery in the marriage frees the man to remarry because of the death of the guilty partner, then we can just read it this way: Anybody that divorces his wife and marries another woman committeth adultery. The man that marries the divorced woman is also guilty of committing adultery.
Let us see how close I am in correctly interpreting what Jesus said.
I want to go back to Mark 10 for a moment.
Mark 10.10-12 [10.] And in the house his disciples asked him again of the same matter. 11. And he saith unto them, Whosoever shall put away his wife, and marry another, committeth adultery against her. 12. And if a woman shall put away her husband, and be married to another, she committeth adultery.
Here we find complete agreement with Deuteronomy 24.1-4 and Paul's understanding of the Law of Moses in Romans 7.1-4 and with Luke's account of what Jesus had to say to the Pharisees on one occasion when they derided him.
He continues to insist that his teachings are in agreement with the Mosaic Law.
Notice how Jesus prefaces his statement concerning putting away in Luke 16:
Luke 16.17-18--17. And it is easier for heaven and earth to pass, than one tittle of the law to fail. 18. Whosoever putteth away his wife, and marrieth another, committeth adultery: and whosoever marrieth her that is put away from her husband committeth adultery.
Now that we have seen what the Law of Moses taught and how Jesus explains that law to the Pharisees and his disciples in one place, let us look at how Jesus explains the law of marriage and divorce to his disciples here in Matthew 19.
Matthew 19.9. And I say unto you, Whosoever shall put away his wife, except it be for fornication, and shall marry another, committeth adultery: and whoso marrieth her which is put away doth commit adultery. 10. His disciples say unto him, If the case of the man be so with his wife, it is not good to marry. 11. But he said unto them, All men cannot receive this saying, save they to whom it is given. 12. For there are some eunuchs, which were so born from their mother's womb: and there are some eunuchs, which were made eunuchs of men: and there be eunuchs, which have made themselves eunuchs for the kingdom of heaven's sake. He that is able to receive it, let him receive it.
Now that we have correctly interpreted what Jesus had to say to the Pharisees, we shall see what the disciples had to say, who were standing by and listening.
Matthew 19.11--If the case of the man be so with his wife, it is not good to marry.
If you will think about this logically, the disciples would never, never, never have said such a thing IF the false doctrine about this passage were true.
Why is it not good to marry?
Because you can only have one wife for life until death parts you, regardless of whether you get along with her or not.
If you make a bad choice without a lot of prayer, and study on the matter, so that it will not be an unequal yoke, then you are just stuck with her, or you will have to live the rest of your life single and celibate.
We shall see that this is exactly what Jesus was saying.
Matthew 19.12……….there be eunuchs, which have made themselves eunuchs for the kingdom of heaven's sake. He that is able to receive it, let him receive it.
To be righteous, if you happen to find yourself in a marriage that you cannot bear and she leaves you for some reason, then you may have to live a celibate life, that of a eunuch for the sake of God's kingdom.
CHAPTER 5.
Now, it is time to move to the writings of the New Testament or 2nd Covenant, or the Law of Christ and see if it differs from these teachings regarding the Old Testament.
I Corinthians 7.10-11 [10.] And unto the married I command, yet not I, but the Lord, Let not the wife depart from her husband: 11. But and if she depart, let her remain unmarried, or be reconciled to her husband: and let not the husband put away his wife.
Here, we see the Apostle Paul writing to the church of Christ in Corinth.
He has much to say about marriage in this chapter and we will not deal with all of them today.
Before we leave this lesson on marriage, we need to look at this passage to see the law of Christ regarding the law regarding marriages today.
The Apostles began to teach the law of Christ on the Day of Pentecost as prophesied by the prophet Isaiah.
Isaiah 2.2-3- 2. And it shall come to pass in the last days, that the mountain of the Lord's house shall be established in the top of the mountains, and shall be exalted above the hills; and all nations shall flow unto it. 3. And many people shall go and say, Come ye, and let us go up to the mountain of the Lord, to the house of the God of Jacob; and he will teach us of his ways, and we will walk in his paths: for out of Zion shall go forth the law, and the word of the Lord from Jerusalem.
We know that this refers to the church established on the Day of Pentecost because of the part of this passage that says that 'all nations shall flow unto it'.
All nations did not follow the Mosaic Law, nor look to Jerusalem for spiritual understanding of God's will.
However, a few years after Pentecost, the Gentile nations were preached the gospel of Jesus Christ and many obeyed the gospel.
We see here that in the Lord's house that the people will learn His ways and His paths and His Law and His Word.
We know that the times of the church of Christ was in the last days from what the writer of Hebrews says.
Hebrews 1.1-3 [1.] God, who at sundry times and in divers manners spake in time past unto the fathers by the prophets, 2. Hath in these last days spoken unto us by his Son, whom he hath appointed heir of all things, by whom also he made the worlds; 3. Who being the brightness of his glory, and the express image of his person, and upholding all things by the word of his power, when he had by himself purged our sins, sat down on the right hand of the Majesty on high;
We see then that the teachings of Christ to the world were to flow from Jerusalem to all nations and that did not happen during the times preceding the death of Christ.
He told his disciples in those days to only go to the house of Israel with the teaching concerning the coming kingdom.
But, after his resurrection, he commanded his disciples to teach all nations.
Matthew 28.18-20—[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.
Did Jesus command the Apostles to teach that it was righteous and Godly and Holy for a man to divorce his wife and marry again before she died or a woman to divorce her husband and marry again before he died?
Not in any place can we find any such teaching by the Apostles.
But we can find what Paul taught to the church of Christ in Corinth. The husband must not put away his wife.
Now, direct your study to the writings in the New Testament that deal primarily with marriage law in the law of Christ.
Study 1 Corinthians 7; and for a parallel about marriage which can teach us how to treat our wives, turn and read Ephesians 5.

VERSES 1-7
1 Cor. 7:1-7
Now concerning the things whereof ye wrote unto me: It is good for a man not to touch a woman. [2] Nevertheless, to avoid fornication, let every man have his own wife, and let every woman have her own husband. [3] Let the husband render unto the wife due benevolence: and likewise also the wife unto the husband. [4] The wife hath not power of her own body, but the husband: and likewise also the husband hath not power of his own body, but the wife. [5] Defraud ye not one the other, except it be with consent for a time, that ye may give yourselves to fasting and prayer; and come together again, that Satan tempt you not for your incontinency. [6] But I speak this by permission, and not of commandment. [7] For I would that all men were even as I myself. But every man hath his proper gift of God, one after this manner, and another after that.
Definitions for verses 1-7 are as follows, which I hope to prove by this study.
Touch a woman=to attach oneself to a woman to set her emotions on fire
Render=deliver; perform; give away; yield
Benevolence=conjugal duty
Power=to control or exercise authority over
Defraud=keep back by fraud; to deprive
Incontinency=lack of self-restraint or control
Come together=cohabit conjugally
Proper=pertaining to one's self; one's own
Gift=deliverance from passion
By Permission=by fellow knowledge; Paul understood the passions of the flesh by experience and was speaking what he knew to be true.
It is better to marry than to commit fornication because of a failure to exhibit control over one's sexual passions of the flesh, and once married, the husband and wife should fulfill those desires of their mate with the exception of an agreed upon period for pray and personal worship.
They are not to use sexual blackmail in the bedroom.
The period of fasting and prayer should not be any longer than can be endured by each mate; and if it is too long, Satan will come tempting them to go to a man or woman outside of their marriage to find this gratification.
Even though I am not going to spend a lot of time today on the first part of this chapter, we must notice one portion specifically for later reference.
I want you to pay particular attention to what Paul says in verse 4.
[4] The wife hath not power of her own body, but the husband: and likewise also the husband hath not power of his own body, but the wife.

Who has the power over the body of the wife?
Who has the power over the body of the husband?
When we get down to v.15, we will notice that Paul says that they are not in bondage once the unbelieving mate deserts them.
Once the unbeliever departs, the body of the Christian is no longer under the power of the unbeliever.
In other words, the unbeliever can no longer demand the submission of the body of the Christian.
The law of Christ frees them from that duty once the unbeliever departs from them.
They cannot be bound by that part of the law of Christ unless they are reconciled to one another. (verses 10-11)
VERSE 8
1 Corinthians 7:8-- I say therefore to the unmarried and widows, It is good for them if they abide even as I.
Since the widows would be unmarried, Paul is referring to those who have never been married in his address to the 'unmarried'.
Unmarried means without ever having had nuptials or a wedding.
VERSE 9
Verse 9-[9] But if they cannot contain, let them marry: for it is better to marry than to burn.
Contain=self restraint
To burn=to be ignited with sexual passions

In other words, Paul is saying that it is better to marry than to commit the sin of fornication, even though it is better to stay single if one is in complete control of their passions.

VERSES 10-11
GENERAL LAW

Verses 10-11-[10] And unto the married I command, yet not I, but the Lord, Let not the wife depart from her husband: [11] But and if she depart, let her remain unmarried, or be reconciled to her husband: and let not the husband put away his wife.
The Lord can refer to either God the Father or God the Son, or even to one in authority.
We see this same Greek word that Paul uses for the 'Lord' in I Corinthians 7.10 used by Jesus in Matthew 11.25 to refer to God the Father.
Matthew 11:25-- At that time Jesus answered and said, I thank thee, O Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because thou hast hid these things from the wise and prudent, and hast revealed them unto babes.
We see the same Greek word used by Jesus to refer to himself as Lord of the Sabbath day.
Matthew 12:8-- For the Son of man is Lord even of the sabbath day.
So, when men say that the Apostle Paul is referring to Matthew 19.9 and what Jesus had to say about marriage, we discover that Paul could have been referring to:
Divine revelation from God
What Jesus said and had been revealed to Paul by the Holy Spirit
What God had to say about marriage in the beginning as revealed in the scriptures in Genesis 2.24. Genesis 2.24- Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh.
As a side note here on Genesis 2.24, which is the universal law regulating all marriages, as we saw early on in the lesson, I want to notice how permanent God set up the marriage covenant to be. This law from God is true regardless of how men acted down through the ages.
Notice in Genesis 2.24 that a man is to 'cleave' unto his wife. Let us briefly examine the meaning of this word in the original Hebrew writing.
TO CLEAVE, CLING
--Strong's Number: 1692;Transliterated: dabaq
Text: "to cling, cleave, keep close." Used in modern Hebrew in the sense of "to stick to, adhere to," dabaq yields the noun form for "glue" and also the more abstract ideas of "loyalty, devotion."
Occurring just over 60 times in the Hebrew Old Testament, this term is found very early in the text, in Gen. 2:24: "Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh."
This usage reflects the basic meaning of one object's (person's) being joined to another. In this sense, Eleazar's hand "cleaved" to the sword as he struck down the Philistines (2 Sam. 23:10). Jeremiah's linen waistcloth "clung" to his loins, symbolic of Israel's "clinging" to God (Jer. 13:11).
We can get a sense of the meaning given 'dabaq' in how it is used by Joshua.
Joshua 22:5-- But take diligent heed to do the commandment and the law, which Moses the servant of the LORD charged you, to love the LORD your God, and to walk in all his ways, and to keep his commandments, and to cleave unto him, and to serve him with all your heart and with all your soul.
We can see the permanence of the word in the account of the sin of Gehazi, the servant of Elisha.
2 Kings 5:27-- The leprosy therefore of Naaman shall cleave unto thee, and unto thy seed for ever. And he went out from his presence a leper as white as snow.
So then, we can see from Genesis 2.24 that the marriage covenant was permanent and unbreakable.
Text Verse 11
[11] But and if she depart, let her remain unmarried, or be reconciled to her husband: and let not the husband put away his wife
Some men want to say that this says that if she divorces him that she should stay single.
The word for depart is 'chorizo' which means 'to put some room between'. Depending upon the context and the case of the article preceding it, this word 'chorizo' can even mean 'come'.
When Jesus used the phrase 'put away' in reference to the law of Deuteronomy 24.1-4; he used a totally different Greek word that is used in I Corinthians 7.11 for depart.
Jesus used the word ' apoluo'- Pronounced ap-ol-oo'-o; from GSN0575 {apo-meaning off} and GSN3089 {to loosen, break up, destroy}
'Apoluo' means to free fully, i.e. (literally) relieve, release, dismiss (reflexively, depart), or (figuratively) let die, pardon or (specially) divorce:
In the King James Version this word 'apoluo' is translated as the following words--(let) depart, dismiss, divorce, forgive, let go, loose, put (send) away, release, set at liberty.
It is possible, of course, that Paul's letter would have been read to those that had divorced their wives or husbands and they would have seen the admonition to be reconciled with their mates.
Even though this could have been the case, we do not need to interpret the word 'depart' here as divorce.
GENERAL AND GUIDING LAW OF MARRIAGE
So what is Paul teaching us in I Corinthians 7.10-11?
I wish to examine 7 key points of this general rule given by God.
We can tell for sure that this is a commandment. Paul said 'I command'.
We can tell for sure that this is a commandment to those who are married from verse 10. Paul said, 'unto the married I command'.
Paul said for the wife to not depart from her husband.
Paul said for the husband to not put away his wife.
It is interesting to note that the words that Paul used here that are translated into English as 'put away' is also translated 'leave' and 'put away' in the following verses to the situation of the unbelieving mate. The Greek word used for 'put away' and 'leave' is 'aphiemi'; pronounced af-ee'-ay-mee; from GSN0575 {apo=off} and hiemi (to send; an intensive form of eimi, to go); to send forth, in various applications (as follow): The meaning of this word 'aphiemi' is one that must be determined by the context and the sense and tense of the word and any articles that go with it. In the King James Version, we see this as true as we look at the various meanings that this word has:--cry, forgive, forsake, lay aside, leave, let (alone, be, go, have), omit, put (send) away, remit, suffer, yield up. It is interesting to note that the word 'aphiemi' is never interpreted as 'divorce'.
Paul said that if the wife does leave the husband to remain unmarried.
Paul commanded the woman to not divorce her husband and marry someone else.
Paul commanded the wife to stay without a mate unless she can be reconciled to her husband.
I want to make a point here about the way that Paul leads into this verse. Notice that he told the married to stay together as husband and wife in verse 10. This agrees with what he said earlier in verses 3-5 about who has the power over the body and giving one another their due benevolence.
Notice that Paul says, 'But and if she depart' and by saying this he shows us that he is not in agreement with the separation.
He is showing his awareness of the possibility of separation among married couples and here he warns them to be reconciled rather than to divorce and take another husband or wife.

Text verses 12-16

1 Corinthians 7:12-16-- But to the rest speak I, not the Lord: If any brother hath a wife that believeth not, and she be pleased to dwell with him, let him not put her away. [13] And the woman which hath an husband that believeth not, and if he be pleased to dwell with her, let her not leave him. [14] For the unbelieving husband is sanctified by the wife, and the unbelieving wife is sanctified by the husband: else were your children unclean; but now are they holy. [15] But if the unbelieving depart, let him depart. A brother or a sister is not under bondage in such cases: but God hath called us to peace. [16] For what knowest thou, O wife, whether thou shalt save thy husband? or how knowest thou, O man, whether thou shalt save thy wife?
A brother could have a wife who was an idolater and worshipped the false gods. Paul is addressing the Christians at Corinth and it is very probable that most of these believers were formerly idolaters. Corinth is a Greek city and noted at that time for its great temples to the various false gods and the accepted worship of the city was what we call idolatry. It was infamous for its immorality. It has been referred to as the Paris of the Roman Empire.
So then, a brother or sister could very well find themselves in a situation where their wife or husband had not obeyed the gospel yet and were unbelievers.
We would call these unbelievers atheists, infidels, or heathens. They did not believe in God or Jesus as the Son of God.
Paul makes it clear that he is teaching them that they can fellowship this idolater or infidel in the case of marriage if the unbeliever is pleased to stay in the relationship.
If he had not made this clear they might have put them away due to other teaching that they had received about the fellowship with the world and how that God has no fellowship with idols and that they were not to be unequally yoked with unbelievers.
II Corinthians 6.14-14. Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness?
So then the Christian can stay with the unbeliever if the unbeliever chooses to continue the relationship after his or her mate has obeyed the gospel of Christ and thus went against the religious belief of the unbeliever who may still be worshipping at the temple of the false gods.
The word used for 'put away' and 'leave' in the Greek does not mean divorce, but simply a separation or a leaving from the marital relationship.
VERSE 14
[14] For the unbelieving husband is sanctified by the wife, and the unbelieving wife is sanctified by the husband: else were your children unclean; but now are they holy.

Now in verse 14, Paul tells them that the unbeliever is sanctified in the marriage with the Christian and the children of that marriage are clean.
What is Paul getting at here?
Those who had read and been taught from the scriptures would have been aware Holy scriptures that show us that it is not wise to be bound in a relationship with those who disobey the laws of God.
We see this admonition in both the Old and New Testaments.
Proverbs 13:20 He that walketh with wise men shall be wise: but a companion of fools shall be destroyed.
We have already looked at the unequal yoke with unbelievers in II Corinthians 6.4. Here we see another statement by the Apostle Paul.
Evil associations have the capacity to corrupt us.
1 Corinthians 15:33-34-- Be not deceived: evil communications corrupt good manners. [34] Awake to righteousness, and sin not; for some have not the knowledge of God: I speak this to your shame.
There is also a commandment forbidding us to allow the false teacher in our house to declare a teaching against Christ.
2 John 1:9-11-- Whosoever transgresseth, and abideth not in the doctrine of Christ, hath not God. He that abideth in the doctrine of Christ, he hath both the Father and the Son. [10] If there come any unto you, and bring not this doctrine, receive him not into your house, neither bid him God speed: [11] For he that biddeth him God speed is partaker of his evil deeds.
What Paul is saying here is that in this situation, where the Christian is in a marriage with an unbeliever that these commandments do not condemn their situation and that to stay in the marriage is considered a Holy action by God.
We can deduce this meaning from another passage where Paul uses the same word 'sanctified' in his writings to Timothy.
Here Paul says that there is nothing wrong in eating meat if the Christian first offers thanks for his food.
1 Timothy 4:4-5-- For every creature of God is good, and nothing to be refused, if it be received with thanksgiving: [5] For it is sanctified by the word of God and prayer.
The meat would not be eternally saved, but it was considered an approved action by God if they offered thanksgiving for the meat.
The children of such a marriage before one of them became a Christian would have been under the idolatrous influence and would have been encouraged to worship false gods themselves.
The children of this mixed marriage are not unclean, but sanctified children.
The Jews considered mixed marriages to be sinful, as they were under the Mosaic Law, and any children from such a union as illegitimate.
They are under the influence now of the Holy Spirit by their association with the Christian mother or father. There is nothing unrighteous in having children with an unbeliever.
So in this case of the marriage of the Christian to an unbeliever, the marriage is sanctified by the word of God.
We should not infer from this passage that the children would have been doomed or lost while in the infant state in the marriage of two unbelievers.
Matthew 19.13-14- 13. Then were there brought unto him little children, that he should put his hands on them, and pray: and the disciples rebuked them. 14. But Jesus said, Suffer little children, and forbid them not, to come unto me: for of such is the kingdom of heaven.
Instead of the marriage being an unholy union between an evil companion and a Christian; between one who has not the doctrine of Christ and a Christian; this marriage is considered a Holy union, sanctified by God's word.

VERSE 15
[15] But if the unbelieving depart, let him depart. A brother or a sister is not under bondage in such cases: but God hath called us to peace.
Here we have one of the major verses of contention in the Law of Christ to the church.
Satan has taken the opportunity here to teach a lie to the church.
False teachers state that in this case that it okay for the Christian to remarry if deserted by the unbeliever. They use the phrase 'not under bondage' to support this doctrine.
Let us back up a little in our text here.
In verses 11 and 12, we see the GENERAL commandment given to all married people. They are commanded by the Lord to not put away their mates and if they are separated for any reason to seek reconciliation. They are to stay celibate during this period of separation and to not seek another marriage partner.
Now we see part of Paul's SPECIFIC or explicit commandments that are derived from the rule of the GENERAL commandment of the Lord.
The GENERAL commandment of verses 10 and 11 must rule all other commandments that relate to it; that is the married couples.
If the unbeliever departs, the Christian is not under bondage in such cases.
Does this imply that the Christian is free to remarry if the unbeliever departs?
I think not.
Let us see if we can make sense of what many of our brethren have interpreted in a fashion that contradicts all of the other teachings regarding marriage.
We have already seen that God sanctified and recognized the union of the unbeliever and the Christian.
To dissolve that marriage would require the husband to put away his wife or the wife to leave her husband.
So the commandment here is to the Christian who has had their unbelieving mate depart. The unbeliever in this case has walked out on the Christian.
Paul says that they are not under bondage if that happens.
We should not only keep in mind the General commandment to the married in verses 10-11, but also the original commandment that ruled all marriage covenants in Genesis 2.24 and that is repeated by Jesus in Matthew 19.4-6.
Matthew 19:4-6-- And he answered and said unto them, Have ye not read, that he which made them at the beginning made them male and female, [5] And said, For this cause shall a man leave father and mother, and shall cleave to his wife: and they twain shall be one flesh? [6] Wherefore they are no more twain, but one flesh. What therefore God hath joined together, let not man put asunder.
Does God only give his laws to the church or does God hold all men responsible to his moral laws, whether they subscribe to them or not?
Let's see. Read especially the highlighted parts of this passage in Romans 1.
Romans 1:18-32-- For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who hold the truth in unrighteousness; [19] Because that which may be known of God is manifest in them; for God hath shewed it unto them. [20] For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse: [21] Because that, when they knew God, they glorified him not as God, neither were thankful; but became vain in their imaginations, and their foolish heart was darkened. [22] Professing themselves to be wise, they became fools, [23] And changed the glory of the uncorruptible God into an image made like to corruptible man, and to birds, and fourfooted beasts, and creeping things. {IDOLATERS}
[24] Wherefore God also gave them up to uncleanness through the lusts of their own hearts, to dishonour their own bodies between themselves: [25] 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. [26] 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: [27] 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. [28] 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; [29] Being filled with all unrighteousness, fornication, wickedness, covetousness, maliciousness; full of envy, murder, debate, deceit, malignity; whisperers, [30] Backbiters, haters of God, despiteful, proud, boasters, inventors of evil things, disobedient to parents, [31] Without understanding, covenantbreakers, without natural affection, implacable, unmerciful: [32] 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.
I think that we can see that this divinely inspired passage is addressed to the idolaters who did not believe in God anymore.
The sinners outside of the church were subject to the wrath of God and his judgment even though they did not recognize the authority of God.
They must repent and come in obedience to the gospel of Jesus Christ in order to be reconciled to God.
Therefore, we can make a convincing case from the scriptures that the sinner and the Christian both are equally responsible to God's law of marriage from the beginning, which Jesus said banned the dissolution of that which God had put together.
Paul's teaching to the married in verses 10-11 of our text agrees with that teaching, even though it does not address the specific case of the unbeliever.
Even though this is true, Paul could not have taught contrary to that law in I Corinthians 7.15.
If 'not under bondage' does not mean free to remarry, what could it mean?
Most commentators concur that Paul did not make it clear what he meant, and many take advantage of this to teach that he must have meant that they were free to remarry.
We must interpret this passage in view of the context of this passage. I cautioned you at the beginning of this section to remember Paul's teaching in I Corinthians 7.3-5.
The husband, hath not power over his own body and the wife has not power over her own body.
Paul is talking about the sexual desires of the body here.
He tells them to render due benevolence to each other and to not withhold themselves from one another unless it was to fast and pray.
So, if the unbelieving husband left the Christian wife and then came back along anytime he wanted his wife, would she be in bondage to this commandment?
What about the other laws regulating marriage found in Ephesians 5.22-29?
Ephesians 5:22-29-- Wives, submit yourselves unto your own husbands, as unto the Lord. [23] For the husband is the head of the wife, even as Christ is the head of the church: and he is the saviour of the body. [24] Therefore as the church is subject unto Christ, so let the wives be to their own husbands in every thing. [25] Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it; [26] That he might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by the word, [27] That he might present it to himself a glorious church, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing; but that it should be holy and without blemish. [28] So ought men to love their wives as their own bodies. He that loveth his wife loveth himself. [29] For no man ever yet hated his own flesh; but nourisheth and cherisheth it, even as the Lord the church:
Paul points out that he has reference primarily to the relations that exist between Jesus Christ and His church, but it has a secondary application to marriages.
Seeing how this ideal picture of marriage represents the concept of Christ and the church, then this shows us the ideal picture of marriage.
Would the woman be in bondage to obey her husband after that he has departed?
Would she be subject to her husband in every thing?
Is the husband still in bondage to the unbelieving wife who has departed, to provide for her, to nourish her, cherish her, and love her?
Does God expect the husband to support financially the unbelieving wife who left him?
Titus 2.5; Col. 3.18-19; and I Peter 3.1,7 teach these principles and more to the husband and wife.
Are they still in bondage to obey these Laws of Christ to the husband and wife if the unbelieving mate departs?
This is the view that agrees with the permanence of marriage as God intended, rather than interpreting 'not under bondage' to mean 'free to remarry without sin'.
VERSES 32-34
Notice verse 32-34 of our text.
1 Corinthians 7:32-34-- But I would have you without carefulness. He that is unmarried careth for the things that belong to the Lord, how he may please the Lord: [33] But he that is married careth for the things that are of the world, how he may please his wife. [34] There is difference also between a wife and a virgin. The unmarried woman careth for the things of the Lord, that she may be holy both in body and in spirit: but she that is married careth for the things of the world, how she may please her husband.
We see then in this portion of scripture that to not have a husband or wife, especially an unbelieving mate would greatly enhance their abilities to serve the Lord without the added concern of making the marriage work as it should.
She is no longer under bondage to please her husband.
Even though the Christian will have to live a celibate life after the departure of the unbelieving mate, they are totally free of the responsibilities of that marriage bound upon them by the marriage Law of Christ. The absence of the unbelieving mate would prevent them from being obeyed in most cases anyway and God does not expect it of us.

VERSES 25-28
[25] Now concerning virgins I have no commandment of the Lord: yet I give my judgment, as one that hath obtained mercy of the Lord to be faithful. [26] I suppose therefore that this is good for the present distress, I say, that it is good for a man so to be. [27] Art thou bound unto a wife? seek not to be loosed. Art thou loosed from a wife? seek not a wife. [28] But and if thou marry, thou hast not sinned; and if a virgin marry, she hath not sinned. Nevertheless such shall have trouble in the flesh: but I spare you.

Here Paul gives his judgment concerning the unmarried virgins. Some would distort this passage as well to mean that verse 27 and 28 teach that if a man is loosed from a wife in the context of divorce that he does not sin if he marries.
The Greek words 'luo' and 'lusis' used here for the words 'loosed' have various meanings that depend on the context to determine their meanings. They are translated in various places as a permanent loosing and in other places as a temporary loosening. So here, we have to interpret this passage so it makes sense in its context and does not contradict other passages regarding marriage.
Again, they do damage to the context of Paul's writing.
He begins this section 'concerning virgins'.
An accepted rule of Bible interpretation in all cases is that we are to take the most obvious meaning of a passage rather than an obscure one, unless the simplest meaning contradicts some other plainly taught truth.
The false teacher is quick to use this rule to support doctrines that he supports, but tosses it out the window in cases where it is not in his favor.
He tells them that it is better to not be married in verse 26. Concerning virgins, it is better in the present distress for the man to be a virgin or not married. He quickly says that if a man is married that he should not seek to be separated from his wife, but if he is a virgin or without a wife that it was Paul's judgment, based on the current distress in Corinth, that it would be better to not marry. Then he says that if the male virgin or the female virgin do marry that they are not sinning.
This passage must agree with the General command given that the man must not put away his wife nor the wife her husband.
To say that a man could divorce his wife and marry again without sin would directly contradict that which Paul said that was a commandment from the Lord in verses 10-11.
Paul dealt with the widower and the widows in verses 7 and 8 and here he deals with the other segment of the unmarried.

VERSE 39
1 Corinthians 7:39--- The wife is bound by the law as long as her husband liveth; but if her husband be dead, she is at liberty to be married to whom she will; only in the Lord.
Finally, here at the end of Paul's teaching of the marriage laws of Christ, he makes a statement that agrees with that which he made near the beginning in verses 10-11.
Paul is writing to both Jew and Gentile in the Corinthian congregation and he has reference to the law of Christ regarding marriage.
The woman, if she does marry, needs to keep in mind that she will be bound to the law of Christ regarding marriage to her husband as long as he is alive.
When he is dead, she is free to marry again if she marries in the Lord.
As plain as the Apostles are on many key subjects that are too numerous to mention, if God had wanted us to practice divorce and remarriage, why not say so in plain simple language that there could never be any dispute over?
Only death has the power to break a fleshly tie.

MARRIAGE IS A COVENANT
The prophet Malachi said that the marriage is a covenant between the man and the woman in Malachi 2:14-- Yet ye say, Wherefore? Because the LORD hath been witness between thee and the wife of thy youth, against whom thou hast dealt treacherously: yet is she thy companion, and the wife of thy covenant.
ONE FLESH
Paul said that when they become married that they become one flesh, just as the marriage law in the beginning in Genesis 2.24 teaches.
Ephesians 5:29-31-- For no man ever yet hated his own flesh; but nourisheth and cherisheth it, even as the Lord the church: [30] For we are members of his body, of his flesh, and of his bones. [31] For this cause shall a man leave his father and mother, and shall be joined unto his wife, and they two shall be one flesh.
We saw how this joining is to be permanent then just as it is to be permanent now.
The greatest lesson for seeing God's law regarding marriage is the parallel that Paul draws between marriage in the flesh and the marriage of Christ and the church.
WE DO NOT SEE IN CHRISTS MARRIAGE LAW ANY APPROVAL FOR DIVORCE OR A SUBSEQUENT REMARRIAGE AS ACTION ON THE PART OF THE Christian ANYWHERE IN THESE SCRIPTURES.
REPENTANCE
Briefly, I want to address the false doctrine that teaches that those who have 2 living mates at the point of baptism have no responsibility to leave the 2nd mate. They teach that baptism forgives all of their sins.
When we obey the gospel, we are pardoned of all of our sins if we have repented.
Acts 2:38-- Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost.
In Corinth, would God have forgiven those who came to be baptized if they had refused to repent of drunkenness or idolatry (worshipping the false gods of Corinth) or any other sin?
Could they say they had repented and then continued on in the idol temples or in their drunkenness?
1 Corinthians 6:9-11-- 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, [10] Nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners, shall inherit the kingdom of God. [11] 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.
As you can see, as long as a person is unrepentant of these sins and continues in them, they cannot inherit the kingdom of God, they will not be added to the church of Christ.

The same preachers who are teaching that an adulterer does not have to repent , at the same time will insist on repentance for these other sins, such as homosexuality and drunkenness.
If a prostitute comes to Christ, she must give up fornication. If a homosexual wishes to become a Christian, he must repent of his fornication.

I heard a good illustration regarding this. A sinner stole a man's car, the watch lying in the car, and the wife sitting in the car. When he became a Christian, he gave back the man's car and his watch, but kept his wife.
We can see how wrong such an argument is forced to become.
Under all dispensations of time, God's marriage law has remained the same regarding the permanence of the marriage covenant for all men, whether they subscribe to God's law or not.
God's law from the beginning taught the one flesh and it was hundreds of years before this was violated. When the law was added because of the transgression of God's law to the Jews on Mt. Sinai, the law taught that if the woman be married to another while her husband liveth, she shall be called an adulteress and the same was true for the man; it was a life-long covenant. Now, we have seen the same law taught by inspiration by the Apostle Paul and adultery is condemned throughout the New Testament teachings. They cannot inherit the kingdom of God.
Divorce and remarriage is evil and is of the Devil and those who teach this doctrine and those who accept it and fellowship adulterers shall face the wrath of God in judgment.
We see how serious that God is about this point in His teaching regarding church fellowship.
1 Corinthians 5:9-11-- I wrote unto you in an epistle not to company with fornicators: [10] Yet not altogether with the fornicators of this world, or with the covetous, or extortioners, or with idolaters; for then must ye needs go out of the world. [11] But now I have written unto you not to keep company, if any man that is called a brother be a fornicator, or covetous, or an idolater, or a railer, or a drunkard, or an extortioner; with such an one no not to eat.
In our study, we have seen the Law of God revealed about marriage. It is not a popular understanding and it is not commonly held among our brethren.
It has not always been so and we hope and pray that they will have their hearts opened to the truth of God's Word.

Teachings of Jesus Not Applicable Today

2007-09-30T23:45:00.000-04:00

PTEACHING OF JESUS, WHICH ARE NOT APPLICABLE TODAY

SERMON 305, BY JOE MCCLURE, 04/09/200

Dear Christian friend, before you get too excited, and before you discount and condemn my title, please bear with in this study.

At the beginning, let me say that I believe all of the Bible to be Gods only inspired Holy message to mankind.

Most of the teachings found in the Gospels, and most found in the writings of the apostles are included in the covenant of Christ.

We learn of the life of Jesus, of his love, his grace, his sacrifice, and we have here the prophesies of Jesus as well.

However, not all are applicable today, and there is a way to know which ones are not.

After you read this article, please study each listed teaching, and prove my conclusions as either true or false by Gods Holy Scriptures.

You may have to approach this study with a more open mind than ever before, but I beg of you to at least read it.

I suggest that you print this out for extended studies, due to its depth and length.

Based solely upon my own experience, I have found that there are more that disagree with my conclusions than there are who are of the same mind.

There are many among religious circles today who are convincing their audiences of doctrines which are in error, and they attempt to justify their false doctrines simply by stating that Jesus said it, and that settles it.

Most like the bumper sticker that says, Jesus Said It, I believe It, and That Settles It.

I agree that it is catchy and appealing, but is it according to the will of Christ?

My major point is this

Can the church of Christ submit to obey every word that Jesus spake during His ministry while on this earth?

Many of the teachings of Christ are found in the New Testament, but not all.

When I say the words New Testament, I am in this case referring to the new covenant which was prophesied to go forth from Jerusalem, and was fulfilled, beginning on the Day of Pentecost, after the ascension of Jesus to His throne in Heaven.

Some of the statements made by Jesus, in the period prior to His death on the cross, should not be obeyed by Christians.

I cannot deal with all of these in this short of an article, and I suggest that you access all of the series that deals with the Sermon on the Mount for further study.

Beginning at this point, I will take you through a detailed study of about 25 key thoughts.

In other words, you are beginning to look at a short book, rather than a sermon length article.

Point 1. THE COUNCIL, ANGRY WITHOUT CAUSE, SAYING RACA AND FOOL

In the books of Matthew, of Mark, of Luke, and of John, you may come across the word council in the teachings of Jesus.

While you may have never stopped to think about this word, I think that we would all agree that Jesus never uttered one vain word in all of His speeches, so the word must have some importance in understanding the message.

Using the reference books at your disposal, I suggest that you research the term Sanhedrin, or Sanhedrine Council.

From Wikepedia:The Talmud (tractate Sanhedrin) identifies two classes of rabbinical courts called Sanhedrin, a Great Sanhedrin and a Lesser Sanhedrin. Each city could have its own lesser Sanhedrin of 23 judges, but there could be only one Great Sanhedrin of 71, which among other roles acted as a sort of Supreme Court, taking appeals from cases decided by lesser courts.

Now, this said, I want to look at one of the sayings of Jesus that has bothered me, and which I could not understand in relation to the government of the church as we see revealed in the Apostles writing.

This one is from the sermon on the mount:

Matthew 5:22 But I say unto you, That whosoever is angry with his brother without a cause shall be in danger of the judgment: and whosoever shall say to his brother, Raca, shall be in danger of the council: but whosoever shall say, Thou fool, shall be in danger of hell fire.

In your research, do you ever find any mention of the council in the teachings of the apostles? Did a fear of judgment at the council ever motivate any NT Christian to do anything?

We might get a better idea of this council from the Scriptures themselves in the following passages.

Matthew 26:57 And they that had laid hold on Jesus led [him] away to Caiaphas the high priest, where the scribes and the elders were assembled. 58 But Peter followed him afar off unto the high priest’s palace, and went in, and sat with the servants, to see the end.59 Now the chief priests, and elders, and all the council, sought false witness against Jesus, to put him to death; Also see Mark 14.53-55

As we can plainly see from this passage, the council consisted of those who put Jesus on trial, and had the power to do so. Here we notice that it consisted, at least, of the chief priests, elders, and the scribes.

The council consisted of the Jewish religious authorities who acted as the final authority in such matters.

Mark 15:1 ¶ And straightway in the morning the chief priests held a consultation with the elders and scribes and the whole council, and bound Jesus, and carried [him] away, and delivered [him] to Pilate.

Luke points out that the council tried Jesus, and found Him guilty.

Luke 22:66 And as soon as it was day, the elders of the people and the chief priests and the scribes came together, and led him into their council, saying, Luke 22:67 Art thou the Christ? tell us. And he said unto them, If I tell you, ye will not believe:

I might suggest that you read from Acts 4, and study it carefully. However, here are a few of the scriptures.

Acts 4:1 And as they spake unto the people, the priests, and the captain of the temple, and the Sadducees, came upon them, 2 Being grieved that they taught the people, and preached through Jesus the resurrection from the dead.3 And they laid hands on them, and put them in hold unto the next day: for it was now eventide.4 Howbeit many of them which heard the word believed; and the number of the men was about five thousand.5 And it came to pass on the morrow, that their rulers, and elders, and scribes,6 And Annas the high priest, and Caiaphas, and John, and Alexander, and as many as were of the kindred of the high priest, were gathered together at Jerusalem. 7 And when they had set them in the midst, they asked, By what power, or by what name, have ye done this?8 Then Peter, filled with the Holy Ghost, said unto them, Ye rulers of the people, and elders of Israel,9 If we this day be examined of the good deed done to the impotent man, by what means he is made whole;10 Be it known unto you all, and to all the people of Israel, that by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom ye crucified, whom God raised from the dead, even by him doth this man stand here before you whole.

Acts 4:15 But when they had commanded them to go aside out of the council, they conferred among themselves, 16 Saying, What shall we do to these men? for that indeed a notable miracle hath been done by them is manifest to all them that dwell in Jerusalem; and we cannot deny it.17 But that it spread no further among the people, let us straitly threaten them, that they speak henceforth to no man in this name.18 And they called them, and commanded them not to speak at all nor teach in the name of Jesus.

In historical context, these events happened after the church was begun in Jerusalem on the Day of Pentecost.

Did the apostles fear this council of the Jews?

Did they respect its authority to quieten the gospel of Christ?

Looking at the above passage from Acts 4, we see the Peter referred to this council as the rulers and elders of Israel.

As we know, they spent some time in prison because they disobeyed the council.

Now, go forward some in this account into the next chapter of Acts 5.

Acts 5.9 But the angel of the Lord by night opened the prison doors, and brought them forth, and said,20 Go, stand and speak in the temple to the people all the words of this life.21 And when they heard that, they entered into the temple early in the morning, and taught. But the high priest came, and they that were with him, and called the council together, and all the senate of the children of Israel, and sent to the prison to have them brought.

Who commanded the disciples to violate the orders of the council?

The angel of the Lord told them to go and speak the words of life to the people, in opposition to the ruling of the high council.

Let's look again at the teaching of Jesus from His sermon on the mount.

Matthew 5:22 But I say unto you, That whosoever is angry with his brother without a cause shall be in danger of the judgment: and whosoever shall say to his brother, Raca, shall be in danger of the council: but whosoever shall say, Thou fool, shall be in danger of hell fire.

Even though we can affirm the spirit of this teaching by Jesus, and prove some of the message by later teaching of the apostles to the church of Christ, there is a part of this verse that is bothersome.

A part of this verse was never affirmed as a part of the covenant of Christ, which went forth from Jerusalem on the Day of Pentecost.

The covenant of Christ established the order of the government of the church, and Gods family was no longer to be in subjection to the religious authority of the Jewish council which Jesus spoke of here in Matthew 5.22. In the church of Christ, the Christians received the will and good pleasure of the gospel message through the inspired apostles, and from various Christians who had been given the Holy Spirit by the laying on of the apostles hands.
Then we see that there were teachers, prophets, and bishops, or elders who had charge of seeing over the spiritual welfare of His church.

I Corinthians 12.27 Now ye are the body of Christ, and members in particular.28 And God hath set some in the church, first apostles, secondarily prophets, thirdly teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of healings, helps, governments, diversities of tongues.

Ephesians 4.11 And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers;12 For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ:13 Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ:14 That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive;

Were the disobedient and unruly Christians judged before the council?

For matters relating to wordly issues, the Christian congregation was to make the judgment, rather than having brethren go to an outside court. This should prove that the Sanhedrein Council held no power in Christs Kingdom.

1 Corinthians 6:4 If then ye have judgments of things pertaining to this life, set them to judge who are least esteemed in the church.

Those who refused to repent of certain sins against the will of Christ were to also be judged by the local congregation as well.

I Corinthians 5.11 But now I have written unto you not to keep company, if any man that is called a brother be a fornicator, or covetous, or an idolater, or a railer, or a drunkard, or an extortioner; with such an one no not to eat.12 For what have I to do to judge them also that are without? do not ye judge them that are within?13 But them that are without God judgeth. Therefore put away from among yourselves that wicked person.

As you should now be able to see, Matthew 5.22, a statement by Jesus, had reference to the THEN CURRENT administration of Gods law, which was still recognized by God and by His Son Jesus Christ.

To conclude this section, under the teaching of Christ, in the text passage, there were 3 stated reasons why that His Jewish audience would be in danger of appearing before the Council. If a man was angry without cause, if he said Raca to his brother and if he called his brother a fool. I question whether all of these are included under the apostles teaching of the covenant of Christ, but if they are, we are not to fear the council, but instead we should fear God and His chastisement and judgment.

Point 2. THE ALTAR

Next, we come to the matter of the altar, which is found in the next saying of Jesus in Matthew 5.23-24.

Matthew 5.23 Therefore if thou bring thy gift to the altar, and there rememberest that thy brother hath ought against thee;24 Leave there thy gift before the altar, and go thy way; first be reconciled to thy brother, and then come and offer thy gift.

The Levitical law describes the many types of offerings which were to brought for various sins to the tabernacle, and later the Temple.

I won't list them all, as this is an extensive study in itself, but it could be birds, oxen, sheep, grain, flour, among others.

Look specifically at the trespass offering, which was to brought to the altar in the tabernacle or Temple.

Leviticus 6.1 And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying,2 If a soul sin, and commit a trespass against the LORD, and lie unto his neighbour in that which was delivered him to keep, or in fellowship, or in a thing taken away by violence, or hath deceived his neighbour;3 Or have found that which was lost, and lieth concerning it, and sweareth falsely; in any of all these that a man doeth, sinning therein:4 Then it shall be, because he hath sinned, and is guilty, that he shall restore that which he took violently away, or the thing which he hath deceitfully gotten, or that which was delivered him to keep, or the lost thing which he found,5 Or all that about which he hath sworn falsely; he shall even restore it in the principal, and shall add the fifth part more thereto, and give it unto him to whom it appertaineth, in the day of his trespass offering.6 And he shall bring his trespass offering unto the LORD, a ram without blemish out of the flock, with thy estimation, for a trespass offering, unto the priest:7 And the priest shall make an atonement for him before the LORD: and it shall be forgiven him for any thing of all that he hath done in trespassing therein.

This offering dealt with an offense of one Jewish brother against another Jewish brother.

According to this law, notice that first the offender was required to make restitution to his brother, prior to coming before the priest with an offering on the altar.

As I understand it, this is the Law of Moses to which Jesus refers in Matthew 5.23-24.

So, does the teaching of Jesus in Matthew 5.23-24 apply to any situation in the church of Christ?

Does this passage establish scriptural authority for some type of physical altar, similar to that which existed in the Jewish Temple?

We can see that Jesus was referring to the altar of the Temple, which existed by authority of the law given by Moses.

We see in the following passage that Jesus used the same word gift and clarifies that the gift in question was given in obedience to OT law.

While the following has no direct reference to the altar, we can see that the cleansed leper was to bring a gift or sacrifice to the priest.

Matthew 8.3 And Jesus put forth his hand, and touched him, saying, I will; be thou clean. And immediately his leprosy was cleansed.4 And Jesus saith unto him, See thou tell no man; but go thy way, shew thyself to the priest, and offer the gift that Moses commanded, for a testimony unto them.

It is evident that Jesus has reference specifically to the Law of Moses, and is not giving any New law to His church.

In Christs church, we are never instructed by the teaching of the apostles to offer up animal sacrifices or any other type of gift at an altar similar to that which existed in the Jewish Temple.

Before going any further with this, I wish to share with you that there was a valid reason for the instructions given by Jesus that clarified the Law of Moses. There was a good reason why that Jesus was teaching the Law of Moses here, rather than teaching the New Testament, or New Covenant.

We should know that Jesus stated more than once that He came to do the will of the Father in Heaven. Further, we should concede that Jesus never sinned, nor ever went against the express will of His Father, who is in Heaven.

Do you agree?

God had a plan and His timing for things, from the beginning of time, and also at the time of these teachings of Jesus here in Matthew 5.

It was according to Gods timeframe and Gods plan that the Law of Moses would continue as His law for His chosen race of people the Jews until a set time after the death, burial, and resurrection of His Son Jesus.

Notice this very truth in the New Covenant, in the Apostles teaching to the church of Christ in the letter written to the Ephesians.

Ephesians 2.13 But now in Christ Jesus ye who sometimes were far off are made nigh by the blood of Christ.14 For he is our peace, who hath made both one, and hath broken down the middle wall of partition between us;15 Having abolished in his flesh the enmity, even the law of commandments contained in ordinances; for to make in himself of twain one new man, so making peace;16 And that he might reconcile both unto God in one body by the cross, having slain the enmity thereby:

What does our Lord tell us here?

Jesus abolished the law of Moses at the cross.

Did Jesus break down the barrier between the Jews and the Gentiles during his earthly ministry, or after His resurrection?

What say the Scriptures?

Prior to the death of Jesus, while He ministered to His Jewish brethren, Jesus commanded them to teach and obey the Law of Moses.

Do you believe this from Matthew 5, from the Sermon on the Mount? Do you obey the following?

Matthew 5.17 Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfil.18 For verily I say unto you, Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law, till all be fulfilled.19 Whosoever therefore shall break one of these least commandments, and shall teach men so, he shall be called the least in the kingdom of heaven: but whosoever shall do and teach them, the same shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven.20 For I say unto you, That except your righteousness shall exceed the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees, ye shall in no case enter into the kingdom of heaven.

Will you obey Jesus?

Jesus said here in the Sermon on the Mount

Whosoever shall do, or obey the law and the prophets shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven.

There is a religious group today calling themselves Christians that teaches that we must heed this instruction by Jesus.

RIGHTLY DIVIDE THE WORD OF TRUTH

Some would tell you that Jesus spake words of His coming new law of Christ during the Sermon on the Mount, and that Jesus contradicted the then existing Law of Moses, which was His Fathers commandments to Israel.

Now, regardless of your first impressions, I would ask you to please consider that Jesus was not, nor is a hypocrite, nor did Jesus ever contradict Himself.

If Jesus condemned the violation of the Mosaic Law in the Sermon on the Mount, and if Jesus condemned the teachers who spake against the Mosaic Law, do you think that Jesus would have then did a flip-flop?

Would he have spoken Matthew 5.17-19, and then taught something which was in opposition to that same law which he applauded here?

If you read a commandment given by Jesus during this period of His ministry, and if that commandment APPEARS to contradict the Law of Moses, then it behooves us to dig a lot deeper and seek to understand the agreement between the teaching of Jesus, and the Law of Moses.

Seeing that we believe, by faith, that the Scriptures do not oppose one another, and that Jesus knew and obeyed the will of His Father, we should not attempt to force them to be in opposition.

Point 3. CAN A CHRISTIAN BREAK ANY LAW OF MOSES AND STILL BE RIGHTEOUS?

Seeing that Jesus made the statement of Matthew 5.17-19, that those who obeyed the Law of Moses, and the prophets as greatest in the kingdom of Heaven, does this statement by Jesus apply to you and I, as Christians today?

Is it considered a sin to violate any of the Laws of Moses?

Some who read this may actually state that the church is still subject to the Law of Moses, but if so, they must reject the various writings of the Apostle Paul which teach otherwise.

Galatians 3.10 For as many as are of the works of the law are under the curse: for it is written, Cursed is every one that continueth not in all things which are written in the book of the law to do them.11 But that no man is justified by the law in the sight of God, it is evident: for, The just shall live by faith.12 And the law is not of faith: but, The man that doeth them shall live in them.13 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:14 That the blessing of Abraham might come on the Gentiles through Jesus Christ; that we might receive the promise of the Spirit through faith.

The commandment of Matthew 5.23-24 is rephrased here in Galatians 3.10. However, by inspiration of the Holy Spirit, and preaching the gospel of Christ, Paul told these Christians that we cannot be made just in God's sight by the law of Moses.

The just shall live by faith, and the law is not of faith. We have been redeemed or released from the curse of the Old Covenant.

Galatians 3.19 Wherefore then serveth the law? It was added because of transgressions, till the seed should come to whom the promise was made; and it was ordained by angels in the hand of a mediator.20 Now a mediator is not a mediator of one, but God is one.21 Is the law then against the promises of God? God forbid: for if there had been a law given which could have given life, verily righteousness should have been by the law.22 But the scripture hath concluded all under sin, that the promise by faith of Jesus Christ might be given to them that believe.23 But before faith came, we were kept under the law, shut up unto the faith which should afterwards be revealed.24 Wherefore the law was our schoolmaster to bring us unto Christ, that we might be justified by faith.25 But after that faith is come, we are no longer under a schoolmaster.

There can be do doubt what the teaching of the new covenant is concerning the Law of Moses.

Paul forbids the Christians from keeping the Law of Moses here. Is Paul then the least in the kingdom of heaven?

In order to answer such questions, we must draw the line at the place God drew His line. We must be able to rightly divide, according to the instructions of the scriptures.

When did the change take place?

Answer: When faith came, and faith came by Jesus Christ.

If we take every statement and teaching spoken by Jesus as the current law of Christ, regardless of when it was said, and regardless of the audience, then Paul must have been mistaken.

For a further, detailed study on this segment, I suggest that you study the entire book of Hebrews. The main purpose of Hebrews is to show the superiority of the law of grace compared to the Law of Moses.

The writer states in the book of Hebrews that the new covenant supplanted the first covenant, or that given by Moses to Israel.

Hebrews 8.6 But now hath he obtained a more excellent ministry, by how much also he is the mediator of a better covenant, which was established upon better promises.7 For if that first covenant had been faultless, then should no place have been sought for the second.8 For finding fault with them, he saith, Behold, the days come, saith the Lord, when I will make a new covenant with the house of Israel and with the house of Judah:9 Not according to the covenant that I made with their fathers in the day when I took them by the hand to lead them out of the land of Egypt; because they continued not in my covenant, and I regarded them not, saith the Lord.

Does this contradict the statement of Jesus in Matthew 5.17-19?

The distinction between the two teachings has to do with the historical context. Matthew 5.17-19 was spoken to a Jewish audience, one which was to be judged out of the Law of Moses, and Hebrews 8.6-9 was written to a Christian audience, who will be judged from the Law of Christ.

So, to answer the question, it is my understanding that we not only can, but should disobey the Law of Moses, as it is not our covenant of promise. We live in a different time here in the last days, and we shall be judged by the law and will of Jesus Christ.

Point 4. PRAY IN YOUR CLOSET

Should we obey every teaching of Jesus Christ just because we can prove that He said it, and that settles it because we believe it?

I believe all of the teaching of Jesus, but I understand that not all that He taught is included in the New Covenant of Christ to the church He built.

Let's now examine another teaching of Jesus that is bothersome to consider.

Matthew 6.5 And when thou prayest, thou shalt not be as the hypocrites are: for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and in the corners of the streets, that they may be seen of men. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward.6 But thou, when thou prayest, enter into thy closet, and when thou hast shut thy door, pray to thy Father which is in secret; and thy Father which seeth in secret shall reward thee openly.7 But when ye pray, use not vain repetitions, as the heathen do: for they think that they shall be heard for their much speaking.8 Be not ye therefore like unto them: for your Father knoweth what things ye have need of, before ye ask him.

Do you abide and obey Matthew 6.6 from the Sermon on the Mount?

Are there any occasions that have arisen that required you to pray outside of a prayer closet?

You may try to explain away the obvious meaning of this commandment by pointing out that Jesus set an example of prayers outside under the elements of nature. You may point out that Jesus prayed in a room with others present during the Passover, and on various other occasions.

As a matter of truth, we cannot find any prayers that are recorded from Jesus that ocurred in a closet.

While the above objections are true, this type of reasoning should caution us to search the scriptures to discover their meaning. By putting V6 in its proper context, we can see that Jesus was not condemning public prayer at all, but rather was teaching concerning ones attitude and motivation while engaged in prayer.

While there are a few OT Scriptures that hint of private and secret prayers to God, there is nothing in this commandment that contradicts the Law of Moses.

Psalms 31.19 Oh how great is thy goodness, which thou hast laid up for them that fear thee; which thou hast wrought for them that trust in thee before the sons of men!20 Thou shalt hide them in the secret of thy presence from the pride of man: thou shalt keep them secretly in a pavilion from the strife of tongues.

A little historical knowledge might help here. Most, if not all of the Jewish houses built in the days of Jesus had a small room on the first level that was devoted as a place of private devotions to God, according to biblical history available from Barnes. Jesus would have been aware of this place, or closet.

In studying the context, we can see that Jesus compares the negative, hypocritical street praying with the secret prayers where the only audience for their prayers was God.

We don't have prayer closets in the modern constructions today, but we can certainly be more open with God when we find that quiet room or place outdoors even to pray. Our closet might be on the top of some wooded hill, or it might be in our houses, in a quiet room.

The new covenant of Christ teaches us to pray everywhere, to pray without ceasing, to pray in public worship, and in effect to pray everywhere.

However, the message we can pay heed to here is the warning against vain words in hypocrisy.

The NT condemns both vain prayers and hypocritical service.

2 Timothy 2:16 But shun profane [and] vain babblings: for they will increase unto more ungodliness.

Point 5. LORDS PRAYER?

Would it be unscriptural to pray the Lords prayer today?

In Matthew 6, after telling them to not pray in the streets for a show, Jesus instructs them how to pray.

Matthew 6.9 After this manner therefore pray ye: Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name.10 Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.11 Give us this day our daily bread.12 And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors.13 And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil: For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen.

This is the only prayer that some people know how to pray. Do you believe that this is the prayer we should always pray, since Jesus said it?

While there is nothing inherently wrong with learning from this model prayer, we can prove several things about prayer.

Other prayers are just as righteous.

A portion of this prayer would not make sense to pray, and therefore would be wrong to include.

Time and again, we read of the preaching of Christ and His disciples that the kingdom was at hand, or in other words, yet futuristic.

Notice the following

Matthew 16:28 Verily I say unto you, There be some standing here, which shall not taste of death, till they see the Son of man coming in his kingdom.

At the time of the instructions on how to pray the Lords prayer, the kingdom of Christ was still in the future, but not now.

If we know for sure that Jesus is in His kingdom ruling NOW, then why would we pray for the kingdom to come?

The kingdom of Christ did become a reality during the lifetime of most of the audience of Jesus.

Acts 2.30 Therefore being a prophet, and knowing that God had sworn with an oath to him, that of the fruit of his loins, according to the flesh, he would raise up Christ to sit on his throne;31 He seeing this before spake of the resurrection of Christ, that his soul was not left in hell, neither his flesh did see corruption.32 This Jesus hath God raised up, whereof we all are witnesses.33 Therefore being by the right hand of God exalted, and having received of the Father the promise of the Holy Ghost, he hath shed forth this, which ye now see and hear.

When did Peter say that Jesus assumed His throne?

Jesus rose from the dead to assume his throne, and that point in time, the Kingdom of God became the Kingdom of Christ. Jesus is now King over all.

The order of Gods Kingdom changed, and when the order changed, then there was a change of the law.

Then we see that Jesus used the apostles to establish His law.

Matthew 16.18 And I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.19 And I will give unto thee the keys of the kingdom of heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven.20 Then charged he his disciples that they should tell no man that he was Jesus the Christ.

As we can see here, Jesus delegated the future authority on earth to the apostles, and in effect, gave them the keys to the kingdom.

Whatever they bound, or taught was to be the new covenant, and binding not only on earth, but in heaven as well.

The word of Jesus went forth from Jerusalem, or Zion according to the OT prophesies.

Isaiah 2. 2 And it shall come to pass in the last days, that the mountain of the LORD’S house shall be established in the top of the mountains, and shall be exalted above the hills; and all nations shall flow unto it.3 And many people shall go and say, Come ye, and let us go up to the mountain of the LORD, to the house of the God of Jacob; and he will teach us of his ways, and we will walk in his paths: for out of Zion shall go forth the law, and the word of the LORD from Jerusalem.

After that I understood that the kingdom of Christ did not come in any way until the Day of Pentecost, I also realized that I could not scripturally pray the exact same words of the Lords Prayer of Matthew 6.10.

Point 6. DO YOU OBEY EVERY SAYING OF JESUS?

Did the Apostles of Christ ever testify that the church which Jesus built MUST keep and submit to all of the sayings and commandments of Jesus, even those which only applied to the correct understanding of the Law of Moses?

Jesus made this statement in the days preceding His death

Matthew 7.26 And every one that heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them not, shall be likened unto a foolish man, which built his house upon the sand:

Are we foolish today if we do not keep every saying of Jesus which He made during His ministry to the Jews?

When was the last time that you went to the priest and took a sacrifice commanded by the Law of Moses?

Matthew 8:4 And Jesus saith unto him, See thou tell no man; but go thy way, shew thyself to the priest, and offer the gift that Moses commanded, for a testimony unto them.

Where is the Jewish priest in the organization of the church of Christ today?

If we can concede that there is JUST one saying or teaching of Jesus which would be wrong for a Christian to obey, then we can begin to study the issue, and try to come to some understanding of how to determine which teachings we should obey, and which we should not.

We know that some have taken these verses and tried to make some application in their particular religious groups today. They have earthly priests and they do accept gifts of money given in a vain attempt to gain forgiveness.

Seeing that Jesus said it, I believe it, and that settles it, why dont we take our sacrifices to the priest of the church?

IF we can properly understand the current order of God, then we can realize that in the days preceding His death, Jesus lived under the authority of His Father in Heaven, and His law at that time, which was the Law of Moses.

We know that the Law of Moses was fulfilled in the death of Jesus Christ, making way for a new law to go forth. When we see this in the light of Christ, we can resolve all the problematic passages found in the books of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John that were said and occured prior to the cross.

It is only when we blindly insist that every teaching of Jesus, and every example of Jesus is our law and guide today that we bring confusion to the discussion.

Point 7. CAST INTO OUTER DARKNESS

I want to now consider another troublesome passage that in no way applies to the church of Christ today, or at least that is the way it seemed to me after this study.

Matthew 8.11 And I say unto you, That many shall come from the east and west, and shall sit down with Abraham, and Isaac, and Jacob, in the kingdom of heaven.12 But the children of the kingdom shall be cast out into outer darkness: there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth.

What does this mean? I thought that the children of the kingdom were promised eternal life.

We can learn from this passage the mind of Christ at the then current time regarding the subject of the kingdom, which was then in existence.

I understand that this might be a little confusing, and might require another entire study.

The truth of the matter is that there has always been a kingdom of God.

However, the coming kingdom preached by the apostles in the time preceding the death of Christ had reference to a new kingdom, ruled by a new king.

We can see this distinction between the kingdom that existed under the guidance of the law and prophets, and that ruled by a new covenant, the Kingdom of Christ.

Jesus had reference to the disobedient, hypocritical Jews who were children of the THEN existing kingdom.

The children of the kingdom would be cast out if they rejected the gospel of Christ which went forth from Jerusalem, beginning at Pentecost. We can read Acts 2, and see that at least 3,000 obeyed the gospel of Christ on that day, and became citizens of the kingdom of Christ. They accepted the Son of God as their Messiah.

Those who were disobedient to obey the gospel of Christ will be cast into outer darkness. After Pentecost, all Jews who continued to submit to the Law of Moses as their religious law were no longer accepted by God as His children, and if they continued in that way to death, will be lost eternally.

Whether I have made this totally clear or not, you must realize that Jesus could not have had reference to the children of the kingdom of Christ in this passage.

Point 8. LET THE DEAD BURY THE DEAD

Another teaching of Jesus that has been difficult for many to understand is His instruction to let the dead bury their own dead.

Matthew 8.21 And another of his disciples said unto him, Lord, suffer me first to go and bury my father.22 But Jesus said unto him, Follow me; and let the dead bury their dead.

This brings up several questions.

If we consider this admonition of our Lord as applicable to the Christian age, would it be sinful to us to have funerals for our loved ones?

When our beloved dies, must we leave the arrangements to the spiritually dead?

Is this passage included in the law of Christ to His church?

Now, the obvious point that Jesus made in the passage is that we should never allow anything in the world take precedence over our submission to Jesus Christ. We can learn this same lesson in the apostles doctrine to the church in a multitude of passages.

We are to put Christ first in all our plans and considerations.

Here Jesus is dealing with a specific case in which He knew the heart of the man who wanted to first go and bury his loved one before following Jesus.

In general, we have the same thought found and applicable to the church of Christ today by the teaching of the inspired NT writers, such as John.

I John 2.15 Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him.16 For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world.17 And the world passeth away, and the lust thereof: but he that doeth the will of God abideth for ever.

This being true, and in the absence of any teaching from the apostles, we can bury our dead.

Now I want to consider a specific command which was spoken by Jesus to the disciples that is in direct contradiction to the prophesies of the church, and in direct contradiction of the teaching of Christ through His apostles.

Jesus ordered His disciples to not preach to any of the Gentile people.

Matthew 10. These twelve Jesus sent forth, and commanded them, saying, Go not into the way of the Gentiles, and into any city of the Samaritans enter ye not:6 But go rather to the lost sheep of the house of Israel.7 And as ye go, preach, saying, The kingdom of heaven is at hand.

When was the last time that you went out and preached the gospel of Christ to the lost Jews of your community?

Seeing that we are Gentiles by race, it is a great thing that the covenant of Christ included us.

In the above passage, we see that the disciples were to preach to the Jews that the prophesied kingdom of the Messiah was near in time, or at hand.

Jesus directly commanded them to not go to the Gentiles, but when the last days came, when Jesus built His church, then disciples were commanded to preach to all, beginning with the conversion of Cornelius.

Not everything that Jesus said can be construed as a commandment to His church. Therefore we must rightly divide the truth in knowing and learning from His teaching in the time preceding His death.

It is instructive to read the prophecies of old that foretold of the coming of Christ and His ministry to the Gentiles.

Isaiah 11:10 And in that day there shall be a root of Jesse, which shall stand for an ensign of the people; to it shall the Gentiles seek: and his rest shall be glorious.

Isaiah 42:1 Behold my servant, whom I uphold; mine elect, in whom my soul delighteth; I have put my spirit upon him: he shall bring forth judgment to the Gentiles.

Isaiah 42:6 I the LORD have called thee in righteousness, and will hold thine hand, and will keep thee, and give thee for a covenant of the people, for a light of the Gentiles;

The above prophesies have a direct reference to the time after the church was begun on the Day of Pentecost. The Lord gave His covenant for the people through the ministry of His Holy Apostles.

Ephesians 3. For this cause I Paul, the prisoner of Jesus Christ for you Gentiles,2 If ye have heard of the dispensation of the grace of God which is given me to you–ward:3 How that by revelation he made known unto me the mystery; (as I wrote afore in few words,4 Whereby, when ye read, ye may understand my knowledge in the mystery of Christ)5 Which in other ages was not made known unto the sons of men, as it is now revealed unto his holy apostles and prophets by the Spirit;6 That the Gentiles should be fellowheirs, and of the same body, and partakers of his promise in Christ by the gospel:7 Whereof I was made a minister, according to the gift of the grace of God given unto me by the effectual working of his power.

What other ages did the Holy Spirit have in mind here? It was the other ages during which there were no apostles and prophets with the gifts of the Holy Spirit. That much we should be able to know with little trouble. In the other ages, the Gentiles were not given the gift of God's grace in Jesus Christ. So, we can be quite sure that prior to the age of the church, in the last days, this message stayed hidden.

The mystery was first revealed to the Jews.

Romans 1:16 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.

In this age, the gospel of salvation in Jesus Christ was preached first to the Jews on the Day of Pentecost, and then preached to the Gentiles, beginning with Cornelius. The Aposte Paul was appointed by Jesus to expand this message to the Gentiles in particular, although he did preach to the Jews.

In the age before the church age, Jesus said that His mission was to Israel only.

Matthew 15.2 And, behold, a woman of Canaan came out of the same coasts, and cried unto him, saying, Have mercy on me, O Lord, thou Son of David; my daughter is grievously vexed with a devil.23 But he answered her not a word. And his disciples came and besought him, saying, Send her away; for she crieth after us.24 But he answered and said, I am not sent but unto the lost sheep of the house of Israel.

Jesus died, was buried, then arose, and for the next 40 days taught the apostles and other disciples. After those 40 days, the Holy Spirit came upon the apostles on the Day of Pentecost, and the gospel of salvation in Jesus Christ began to be preached to first the Jews, and then to all races of people on the earth.

Jesus died as a sin sacrifice for all that will obey Him.

II Peter 3.9 The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us–ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.

There is no contradiction here as long as we put the scripture we are reading in the proper age and dispensation of Gods time.

Prior to His death, Jesus lived in the age during which Gods chosen people were those of Israel, and remained so until the end of the age.

Point 9. TELL NO MAN WHO JESUS IS

This is a command that would never be commanded by the apostles, as it was the mission of all Christians to preach Jesus Christ to the lost.

However, we see that in the age preceding the church, Jesus did command His disciples to keep it secret that He was the Messiah who would save Israel.

Matthew 16:20 Then charged he his disciples that they should tell no man that he was Jesus the Christ.

As we watch the context carefully, we notice that there those times of private teaching only to the disciples. On some of these occasions, they were forbidden to reveal them to anyone until after Jesus was risen from the dead.

Matthew 17:9 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.

Matthew 8.9 And he saith unto them, But whom say ye that I am? And Peter answereth and saith unto him, Thou art the Christ.30 And he charged them that they should tell no man of him.

Obviously, the Son of Man has arisen from the dead, and the message has now been told that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God.

I Corinthians 1.21 For after that in the wisdom of God the world by wisdom knew not God, it pleased God by the foolishness of preaching to save them that believe.22 For the Jews require a sign, and the Greeks seek after wisdom:23 But we preach Christ crucified, unto the Jews a stumblingblock, and unto the Greeks foolishness;24 But unto them which are called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God, and the wisdom of God.

Point 10. SELL ALL YOU HAVE AND GIVE TO THE POOR

In the age preceding His death, Jesus went about preaching the truth of the kingdom of God, and its then current law in truth. Their religious leaders had so distorted the truth that it was almost unrecognizable in some cases.

Keeping in mind that Jesus preached the Mosaic law to the people in that age, we can understand the following without troubling our minds as to the truth which we find in the New Covenant of Christ concerning salvation.

In Matthew 19, what was required for the salvation of the audience of Jesus?

Matthew 19.16 ¶ And, behold, one came and said unto him, Good Master, what good thing shall I do, that I may have eternal life?17 And he said unto him, Why callest thou me good? there is none good but one, that is, God: but if thou wilt enter into life, keep the commandments.18 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,19 Honour thy father and thy mother: and, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.20 The young man saith unto him, All these things have I kept from my youth up: what lack I yet?21 Jesus said unto him, If thou wilt be perfect, go and sell that thou hast, and give to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come and follow me.22 But when the young man heard that saying, he went away sorrowful: for he had great possessions.23 ¶ Then said Jesus unto his disciples, Verily I say unto you, That a rich man shall hardly enter into the kingdom of heaven.

Is this the answer given on the Day of Pentecost when the Jews asked Peter what to do?

Is this what you have done in order to assure yourself that you have eternal life?

Jesus commanded him to see his possessions and give it to the poor. If we dont obey this commandment, we know that not every saying of Jesus applies to us.

However, there is a lesson to be learned from that event, and we can see some of the lessons in general taught in the new covenant. We are to do good to all men. A warning is given to the rich in the letter Paul wrote Timothy. We are warned against idolatry, that is the worship of things of the world in contrast to the giver of all good things being worshipped.

Matthew 19.16-22 presents no contradiction when we place it in the age preceding the church age, and properly draw the line where God has drawn it, by rightly dividing the word of truth.

There is a danger in not dividing the word of truth, and we see the confusion brought upon the world with the vast number of denominations who have attempted to mix up the covenants, choosing only those teachings they desire from each covenant.

One rule which we must use is that in our studies we should NEVER array one passage of Gods Word against another. We must never admit that there are contradictions in the message of the Bible.

Point 11. OBEY THE SCRIBES AND PHARISEES

Now we come to another troublesome passage for those who say that Jesus taught the future laws of the church of Christ during his ministry in Galilee.

Matthew 23.1 ¶ Then spake Jesus to the multitude, and to his disciples,2 Saying, The scribes and the Pharisees sit in Moses’ seat:3 All therefore whatsoever they bid you observe, that observe and do; but do not ye after their works: for they say, and do not.

Are you willing to teach this same teaching of Jesus to your fellow Christians today?

Are you willing to learn and obey the teachings of the scribes and Pharisees of that age?

The common sense approach in answering these questions posed to this point would be to simply admit that in these examples given, that Jesus was talking to people who would be judged on the final day by the law that God had given them, the Law of Moses.

Point 12. CROSSOVER LAWS

In an effort to rightly divide the word of truth, we need to understand that there are some principles which Jesus wants us to follow that were common to the prior ages of Gods dispensations of time.

The laws which Jesus wanted His church to subject themselves to are taught to us by the Holy Spirit inspired writers of the New Testament, after that the testator died.

Hebrews 9.11 But Christ being come an high priest of good things to come, by a greater and more perfect tabernacle, not made with hands, that is to say, not of this building;12 Neither by the blood of goats and calves, but by his own blood he entered in once into the holy place, having obtained eternal redemption for us.13 For if the blood of bulls and of goats, and the ashes of an heifer sprinkling the unclean, sanctifieth to the purifying of the flesh:14 How much more shall the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered himself without spot to God, purge your conscience from dead works to serve the living God?15 ¶ And for this cause he is the mediator of the new testament, that by means of death, for the redemption of the transgressions that were under the first testament, they which are called might receive the promise of eternal inheritance.16 For where a testament is, there must also of necessity be the death of the testator.17 For a testament is of force after men are dead: otherwise it is of no strength at all while the testator liveth.18 Whereupon neither the first testament was dedicated without blood.

Those teachings which Jesus wanted us to have as a part of the covenant of Christ were given to us in the apostles doctrine. Those teachings which belonged only to the past age were not included in the writings of the inspired writers of the NT.

John 16.13 Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will shew you things to come.14 He shall glorify me: for he shall receive of mine, and shall shew it unto you.15 All things that the Father hath are mine: therefore said I, that he shall take of mine, and shall shew it unto you.

The Holy Spirit guided the apostles into all truth. This explains why that many of the teachings of Jesus are never included in the new covenant.

Point 13. FEET WASHING

Today there are still some religious groups in our country who practice an item of worship at the communion of feet washing. They claim their authority for this from the teaching of Christ to the disciples.

John 13.2 So after he had washed their feet, and had taken his garments, and was set down again, he said unto them, Know ye what I have done to you?13 Ye call me Master and Lord: and ye say well; for so I am.14 If I then, your Lord and Master, have washed your feet; ye also ought to wash one another’s feet.15 For I have given you an example, that ye should do as I have done to you.16 Verily, verily, I say unto you, The servant is not greater than his lord; neither he that is sent greater than he that sent him.17 If ye know these things, happy are ye if ye do them.

Why dont we practice foot washing in our worship services today?

Jesus commanded it to His disciples, did He not?

There is no need for this passage to trouble us, especially if we understand that the covenant of Christ had not yet been given to mankind, and that the church of Christ and its apostlic law was still in the future.

The rite of foot washing shows us the humanity, the love of our Lord, and His own humility, and was most certainly appropriate for the occasion, but was never taught as law to the church of Christ by the inspiration of the Holy Spirit.

We have looked now at enough examples to at least cause one to question how that the word is divided, to prove to me that not every saying of Jesus applies to regulating the conduct of Christians in the Kingdom today.

These examples should also establish a rule of study regarding the division that took place at the cross.

It should also teach us that we are supposed to observe the commandments of Christ only if He repeated those commandments by means of the inspired writers of the New Testament.

DID JESUS CONTRADICT THE LAW OF MOSES?

Many preachers have begun to teach that Jesus taught those teachings which opposed the Law of Moses, and thus they must have been the New Covenant, since it was different.

I believe their suppositions to be incorrect, so I do not believe in their conclusion either.

In an effort to show some of these things that are supposedly contradictory to the Law of Moses, lets look at some of those passages.

Point 14. TURN THE OTHER CHEEK

First, lets go back again to the Sermon on the Mount.

Matthew 5.38 Ye have heard that it hath been said, An eye for an eye, and a tooth for a tooth:39 But I say unto you, That ye resist not evil: but whosoever shall smite thee on thy right cheek, turn to him the other also.

Here is what Christians hear from such passages. They hear ye have heard, but I say unto you.

They read that it says one thing in the Law of Moses, but Jesus has a new law to give them.

This thinking is wrong.

Jesus does not teach the people something which violates, or contradicts the law and the prophets.

First, lets look at the Law of Moses.

Deuteronomy 25.1 ¶ If there be a controversy between men, and they come unto judgment, that the judges may judge them; then they shall justify the righteous, and condemn the wicked.2 And it shall be, if the wicked man be worthy to be beaten, that the judge shall cause him to lie down, and to be beaten before his face, according to his fault, by a certain number.3 Forty stripes he may give him, and not exceed: lest, if he should exceed, and beat him above these with many stripes, then thy brother should seem vile unto thee.

According to the Law of Moses, when there was a personal controversy between men, they were supposed to take the matter to the judge, and the judge would rule and mete out the punishment for the offender.

According to the Law of Moses, personal retaliation was forbidden.

It was not Gods order for judgment to rest in the hands of the individual. We can see the wisdom of that even in our own judicial system today, and also in the government of the church of Christ.

God set up this system of justice in the Law of Moses.

Deuteronomy 16.18 ¶ Judges and officers shalt thou make thee in all thy gates, which the LORD thy God giveth thee, throughout thy tribes: and they shall judge the people with just judgment.19 Thou shalt not wrest judgment; thou shalt not respect persons, neither take a gift: for a gift doth blind the eyes of the wise, and pervert the words of the righteous.

Jesus did not forbid righteous judgment, but instead the unrighteous judgment of taking the law into their own hands.

Let us look at the particular and specific law which Jesus is teaching them about.

Exodus 21.22 ¶ 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,24 Eye for eye, tooth for tooth, hand for hand, foot for foot,25 Burning for burning, wound for wound, stripe for stripe.

Did Jesus contradict the letter of the law?

The law that speaks of a man abusing a pregnant woman had been expanded to a much broader tradition.

The law of Moses put the retribution in the hands of the judge, so Jesus was in agreement by telling them to not resist evil.

The law forbade personal vengeance, so this is not something new, but rather a clarification by Jesus of the original intent of the Law.

Leviticus 19.17 Thou shalt not hate thy brother in thine heart: thou shalt in any wise rebuke thy neighbour, and not suffer sin upon him.18 Thou shalt not avenge, nor bear any grudge against the children of thy people, but thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself: I am the LORD.

In the New Covenant, we are also taught by our Lord to not resist evil and to love our neighbor and brother as ourselves. So, we see many of Gods principles in all the covenants from the beginning to now.

Point 15. HE THAT IS WITHOUT SIN CAST THE 1ST STONE

Further on with the thought concerning judgment, we see that Jesus shows that he knows and recognizes that there is a proper way to execute judgment.

As I hope that you might see from my reasoning, Jesus did not disagree with punishment if that punishment was according to the Law of Moses.

Jesus disagreed many times with the common, everyday understanding of the Law, because of its distortion by the religious rulers of His day.

John 8.4 They say unto him, Master, this woman was taken in adultery, in the very act.5 Now Moses in the law commanded us, that such should be stoned: but what sayest thou?6 This they said, tempting him, that they might have to accuse him. But Jesus stooped down, and with his finger wrote on the ground, as though he heard them not.7 So when they continued asking him, he lifted up himself, and said unto them, He that is without sin among you, let him first cast a stone at her.8 And again he stooped down, and wrote on the ground.9 And they which heard it, being convicted by their own conscience, went out one by one, beginning at the eldest, even unto the last: and Jesus was left alone, and the woman standing in the midst.

Did Jesus write some new law here, one that disagreed with the Law of Moses?

Jesus does not disagree with the law of Moses, and furthermore responds by telling them to go ahead and stone her.

The one without sin should throw the first stone.

What did the Law of Moses teach on the question of what to do when a person was caught in the act of adultery?

Leviticus 20:10 ¶ And the man that committeth adultery with [another] man’s wife, [even he] that committeth adultery with his neighbour’s wife, the adulterer and the adulteress shall surely be put to death.

Why were the questioners of Jesus convicted by their own conscience when Jesus told the one without sin to cast the 1st stone?

Notice, if this woman was indeed caught in the very act of adultery, where was the man?

Was he one of the accusers? Notice that they were not willing to pursue the matter any further.

If they had, they would have been bound to produce for judgment also the man with whom she was caught in the very act of adultery with.

The tempting of Jesus was in the fact that the accusers knew that only the eyewitnesses could cause the guilty parties to be taken before the judges. According to the Law of Moses, Jesus could not accuse nor condemn her, as he was not a witness to her sin.

Point 16. RESIST NOT EVIL

In a previously stated passage from Matthew 5.38-39, Jesus told them to resist not evil.

Matthew 5.38-39--38 ¶ Ye have heard that it hath been said, An eye for an eye, and a tooth for a tooth:39 But I say unto you, That ye resist not evil: but whosoever shall smite thee on thy right cheek, turn to him the other also.

Does the church of Christ have a law from Christ today that says we cannot resist evil?

If the command to resist not evil is a law of Christ, how could the church exercise church discipline, and on a personal level, how could the individual resist temptation?

Our Lord said through Peter to the church that we are supposed to resist the devil, or evil.

I Peter 5.8 ¶ Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour:9 Whom resist stedfast in the faith, knowing that the same afflictions are accomplished in your brethren that are in the world.

However, there is a Christian lesson to be learned from Matthew 5.38-39, and that lesson is that we should be longsuffering, that we should be forgiving in our nature, and that time and again we will be called upon to suffer quietly when we are persecuted for the glory of our Lord.

2 Corinthians 1:5 For as the sufferings of Christ abound in us, so our consolation also aboundeth by Christ.

We are taught to be patient in well doing.

1 Peter 3:17 For [it is] better, if the will of God be so, that ye suffer for well doing, than for evil doing.

This said, we should never get the wrong idea that our Lord wishes for us to compromise to evil in our personal life, or in the church worship.

Philippians 1.27 ¶ Only let your conversation be as it becometh the gospel of Christ: that whether I come and see you, or else be absent, I may hear of your affairs, that ye stand fast in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel;28 And in nothing terrified by your adversaries: which is to them an evident token of perdition, but to you of salvation, and that of God.29 For unto you it is given in the behalf of Christ, not only to believe on him, but also to suffer for his sake;30 Having the same conflict which ye saw in me, and now hear to be in me.

Contrary to this, we are taught by the Lord to stand fast, to defend the faith, to contend for the truth, and to be bold in our condemnation of evil.

We are given a way to address grievances between brethren.

Neither the law of Christ, nor the law of Moses teaches that we have no redress for sins incurred upon us.

Point 17. WAS THE LAW OF MOSES A LAW OF HATE?

There seems to be a false impression among the brethren that the Law of Moses was a law of hatred, or at the very least without grace.

In line with this erroneous thinking, many believe that Jesus contradicted the law of Moses in Matthew 5.43-44, and in effect gave a new law to the church of Christ in the Sermon on the Mount.

Consider the reading

Matthew 5.43 ¶ Ye have heard that it hath been said, Thou shalt love thy neighbour, and hate thine enemy.44 But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you;45 That ye may be the children of your Father which is in heaven: for he maketh his sun to rise on the evil and on the good, and sendeth rain on the just and on the unjust.46 For if ye love them which love you, what reward have ye? do not even the publicans the same?47 And if ye salute your brethren only, what do ye more than others? do not even the publicans so?

I urge you to consider that when Jesus made the statement, Ye have heard, or it hath been said, that in such renderings, he had direct reference to the false teaching of the religious rulers of that time, and not to the law of Moses.

The question before us is whether or this is a new law of Christ, or whether it is simply the truth of what the law meant.

Was it a new law to love ones enemies? Was one allowed to do good to those who hated them, under the law of Moses? Was one allowed, under the law, to pray for ones enemies, and to bless them?

Before taking you directly to the Levitical or Mosaic Law, I would like for you to see what Jesus said in answer to these questions in the sermon on the mount.

Matthew 7:12 ¶ Therefore all things whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them: for this is the law and the prophets.

Here in what is commonly referred to as the Golden Rule, we notice that Jesus declares for all time that He is discussing the law of Moses and the writings of the prophets of old.

Treat others as you would have them treat you, is what Jesus says is taught in the existing law and prophets.

Have you ever realized that this much publicized Golden Rule is not a new law of Christ, but instead it already existed in the Law and Prophets of the Old Testament?

The law and the prophets had as their central core the theme of love.

Even if we didn't quote for you from the letter of the law of Moses, we can prove our premise here by Jesus himself, and His statements of fact.

Again, we find Jesus affirming that He is discussing the Law of Moses here in the sermon on the mount.

Matthew 22.34 ¶ But when the Pharisees had heard that he had put the Sadducees to silence, they were gathered together.35 Then one of them, which was a lawyer, asked him a question, tempting him, and saying,36 Master, which is the great commandment in the law?37 Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind.38 This is the first and great commandment.39 And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.40 On these two commandments hang all the law and the prophets.

Did Jesus know what He was talking about? Of course he did. Was love the central core of all the commandments found in the Old Testament? Of course they were.

Now, I take you to the law of Moses which speaks of ones brother and neighbor.

Leviticus 19.17 Thou shalt not hate thy brother in thine heart: thou shalt in any wise rebuke thy neighbour, and not suffer sin upon him.18 Thou shalt not avenge, nor bear any grudge against the children of thy people, but thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself: I am the LORD.

Again, lets look at the OT law regarding the attitude of the Israelite toward his enemy.

Proverbs 24:17 ¶ Rejoice not when thine enemy falleth, and let not thine heart be glad when he stumbleth:

Exodus 23.4 If thou meet thine enemy’s ox or his ass going astray, thou shalt surely bring it back to him again.5 If thou see the ass of him that hateth thee lying under his burden, and wouldest forbear to help him, thou shalt surely help with him.

Proverbs 25:21 ¶ If thine enemy be hungry, give him bread to eat; and if he be thirsty, give him water to drink:

Proverbs 20:22 ¶ Say not thou, I will recompense evil; [but] wait on the LORD, and he shall save thee.

Love was the central theme of the law of God in the Old Testament covenant.

Now, you may be confused over the historical stories of the OT that tell of massive destruction of the enemies of God by the armies of Israel and in those accounts you fail to see anything but hate for the enemy.

Here is the way that I understand this point

The law of Moses appears to teach the individual a personal responsibility toward his brother, his neighbor, and his personal enemies. The law never allows the individual, nor the leaders of Israel to take matters of vengeance upon themselves.

The nation of Israel was what we call a theocracy, or a nation ruled by God. God set up a government which allowed grievances to be dealt with and settled. God had his way by which he destroyed the enemies of Israel. Sometimes God used what would appear to men as natural disasters, and at other times he gave orders to the leaders to assemble an army and to go against his enemy and utterly destroy. If you will study all of the times when Israel went to war without the approval of God, you will see that they suffered defeat on these occasions.

Parallel in the church

We see a parallel thought in the church today. Christians are commanded to love their enemies.

Romans 12.0 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.21 Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good.

1 Thessalonians 5:15 See that none render evil for evil unto any [man]; but ever follow that which is good, both among yourselves, and to all [men].

Similar to Israel, we are supposed to rely on God for the victory over our enemies, which are the enemies of Christs church.

We are to fight, but only as God directs and in a spiritual warfare.

1 Timothy 6:12 Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, whereunto thou art also called, and hast professed a good profession before many witnesses.

II Corinthians 10.3 For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war after the flesh:4 (For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds;)5 Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ;

Point 18. IT HATH BEEN WRITTEN--RULE OF STUDY

To further aid in this study of the many statements by Jesus which appear as contrary to the Law of Moses, you may consider the following rules.

Rule A. When Jesus made the statement, It hath been written, he was always referring to those things that were written in the Old Testament, such as we find in the law of Moses, the Psalms, and the Prophetic writings.

Rule B. When Jesus made the statement, It hath been said, he was referring to the false teaching of the religious authorities. These false statements were interpretations by men as to what they thought that the law meant.

It hath been written was by divine inspiration, while It hath been said was not by inspiration, but rather a human interpretation of the divine law.

Point 19. SWEAR NOT

To forswear meant to swear falsely, or to commit perjury.

To swear meant to affirm or promise something, or ones word by invoking an oath.

While we know that it is wrong to lie, and thus we know that it is wrong to forswear.

Can we prove by the covenant or law of Christ that it is sinful to take an oath?

Matthew 5.33-37--33 ¶ Again, ye have heard that it hath been said by them of old time, Thou shalt not forswear thyself, but shalt perform unto the Lord thine oaths:34 But I say unto you, Swear not at all; neither by heaven; for it is God’s throne:35 Nor by the earth; for it is his footstool: neither by Jerusalem; for it is the city of the great King.36 Neither shalt thou swear by thy head, because thou canst not make one hair white or black.37 But let your communication be, Yea, yea; Nay, nay: for whatsoever is more than these cometh of evil.

What is an OATH?

According to Smiths Bible Dictionary, an oath is an appeal to Divine authority to ratify the truth of an assertion.

Taking an oath is telling men that you can call God as a witness to your testimony.

Hebrews 6:16 For men verily swear by the greater: and an oath for confirmation [is] to them an end of all strife.

If a Christian can rightly follow the example of a Holy Apostle, then consider that the Apostle Paul took an oath, or swore by the name of God.

Galatians 1:20 Now the things which I write unto you, behold, before God, I lie not.

If you were to research all of the Bible on this one subject, you would find that the words oath, swear, vow, and adjure all imply the same thought and meaning.

To enter into, or make a covenant also involved the taking of an oath.

We can prove this point by looking at the following two scriptures.

1 Samuel 18:3 Then Jonathan and David made a covenant, because he loved him as his own soul.

2 Samuel 21:7 But the king spared Mephibosheth, the son of Jonathan the son of Saul, because of the LORD’S oath that [was] between them, between David and Jonathan the son of Saul.

The word adjure comes from the Hebrew word shava and is translated in some of the translations as oath. In I Kings 22.16 and in II Chronicles 18.15, the same word is used with the meaning to charge or bind under the penalty of a curse.

In Matthew 26.63-64, we find that Jesus subjected himself under this type of oath.

Matthew 26.62 And the high priest arose, and said unto him, Answerest thou nothing? what is it which these witness against thee?63 But Jesus held his peace. And the high priest answered and said unto him, I adjure thee by the living God, that thou tell us whether thou be the Christ, the Son of God.64 Jesus saith unto him, Thou hast said: nevertheless I say unto you, Hereafter shall ye see the Son of man sitting on the right hand of power, and coming in the clouds of heaven.

As Christians, we understand the meaning of having a covenant relationship with God. When each of us became a Christian we submitted ourselves to the will of Christ and in effect entered into a covenant with God with a promise to follow His Son.

This is the covenant which is spoken of in the apostles teaching in reference to our covenant with Christ.

Hebrews 8.6 ¶ But now hath he obtained a more excellent ministry, by how much also he is the mediator of a better covenant, which was established upon better promises.7 For if that first covenant had been faultless, then should no place have been sought for the second.8 For finding fault with them, he saith, Behold, the days come, saith the Lord, when I will make a new covenant with the house of Israel and with the house of Judah:9 Not according to the covenant that I made with their fathers in the day when I took them by the hand to lead them out of the land of Egypt; because they continued not in my covenant, and I regarded them not, saith the Lord.10 For this is the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel after those days, saith the Lord; I will put my laws into their mind, and write them in their hearts: and I will be to them a God, and they shall be to me a people:11 And they shall not teach every man his neighbour, and every man his brother, saying, Know the Lord: for all shall know me, from the least to the greatest.12 For I will be merciful to their unrighteousness, and their sins and their iniquities will I remember no more.13 In that he saith, A new covenant, he hath made the first old. Now that which decayeth and waxeth old is ready to vanish away.

It was impossible for this covenant to come into existence until the Lord Jesus put His law into their minds and hearts in a way other than verbal teaching. This was only fulfilled at the time that the Holy Apostles were immersed in the Holy Spirit on the Day of Pentecost, and received the message from Jesus, and then began at that point to share the will of Jesus to the world.

It was only when the new covenant came that their sins would no more be remembered.

But let us get back to the subject of the connection between a covenant and swearing or taking an oath to affirm the truth.

When a believer in Jesus enters into the covenant with God, he or she takes a vow, an oath to God that they are ready and willing to abide by the requirements of the covenant of Christ. This oath or vow is taken at the point of confessing Jesus Christ as Lord.

We can see this point affirmed by a prophecy of these last days.

Isaiah 45.22 Look unto me, and be ye saved, all the ends of the earth: for I am God, and there is none else.23 I have sworn by myself, the word is gone out of my mouth in righteousness, and shall not return, That unto me every knee shall bow, every tongue shall swear.24 Surely, shall one say, in the LORD have I righteousness and strength: even to him shall men come; and all that are incensed against him shall be ashamed.25 In the LORD shall all the seed of Israel be justified, and shall glory.

We can affirm that swearing and confession are equal in meaning from the Word of God by looking at this same prophecy from our Lord by the words of His Holy Apostle Paul.

Philippians 2. 9 Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name:10 That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth;11 And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

Again, we see that Jesus was made High Priest by our Heavenly Father by an oath.

Hebrews 7.9 For the law made nothing perfect, but the bringing in of a better hope did; by the which we draw nigh unto God.20 And inasmuch as not without an oath he was made priest:21 (For those priests were made without an oath; but this with an oath by him that said unto him, The Lord sware and will not repent, Thou art a priest for ever after the order of Melchisedec:)22 By so much was Jesus made a surety of a better testament.

Again, in addition to this, we find that the Apostle Paul took an oath of truth.

2 Corinthians 1:23 Moreover I call God for a record upon my soul, that to spare you I came not as yet unto Corinth.

Galatians 1:20 Now the things which I write unto you, behold, before God, I lie not.

We find the actual text words in the NT that Paul had a vow upon him for a time.

Acts 18:18 ¶ And Paul [after this] tarried [there] yet a good while, and then took his leave of the brethren, and sailed thence into Syria, and with him Priscilla and Aquila; having shorn [his] head in Cenchrea: for he had a vow.

Now, with all of this evidence before you, I would like to connect this with our original point that Jesus said to not swear at all, in the Sermon on the Mount, found in Matthew 5.33-37.

Since we all can agree that the Holy Scriptures cannot contradict themselves, and that God cannot lie, I believe that we have seen sufficient proof in the preceding scriptures to state that Jesus was not condemning those specific oaths authorized by the Law of Moses.

If Jesus had forbidden all types of oaths, he would have violated his own commandment in Matthew 26.64, when he submitted himself to the oath by the Jewish high priest.

Jesus was condemning the same types of oaths which were also prohibited in the text of the Law of Moses. It should be obvious that Jesus has reference to profane statements or lying statements with an oath, or taking the name of God in vain.

We can see that when Jesus said to not swear at all that, at the same time, puts limitations upon this statement by prohibiting a swearing by heaven, by earth, by Jerusalem, and by the head. See Matthew 23.16-22.

Matthew 23.16 Woe unto you, ye blind guides, which say, Whosoever shall swear by the temple, it is nothing; but whosoever shall swear by the gold of the temple, he is a debtor!17 Ye fools and blind: for whether is greater, the gold, or the temple that sanctifieth the gold?18 And, Whosoever shall swear by the altar, it is nothing; but whosoever sweareth by the gift that is upon it, he is guilty.19 Ye fools and blind: for whether is greater, the gift, or the altar that sanctifieth the gift?20 Whoso therefore shall swear by the altar, sweareth by it, and by all things thereon.21 And whoso shall swear by the temple, sweareth by it, and by him that dwelleth therein.22 And he that shall swear by heaven, sweareth by the throne of God, and by him that sitteth thereon.

The problem facing Jesus, and the Jewish people was that the Jewish rulers failed to quote the law with its full meaning.

The law which Jesus is trying to correct with His teaching to not swear at all is apparently found in the Law of Moses in Leviticus 19.12.

Leviticus 19.11 ¶ Ye shall not steal, neither deal falsely, neither lie one to another.12 And ye shall not swear by my name falsely, neither shalt thou profane the name of thy God: I am the LORD.

According to several of the ancient Jewish historians who wrote about the Jewish religion of this specific period, stated that the Jews thought that they had found a legal loophole in the law. They thought they had found a legal way to false swear and a legal way to break an oath. They believed that they could do this by being careful in their speech not to mention the name of God when they swore. Instead of using the name of God in their oaths, they would swear instead by the temple, by their head, or by some other thing.

Romans 10:3 For they being ignorant of God’s righteousness, and going about to establish their own righteousness, have not submitted themselves unto the righteousness of God.

The 3rd of the 10 Commandments taught to not take the name of the Lord thy God in vain, which by implication seems to teach that there were occasions when the name of the Lord could rightly be taken, and we see such an oath commanded in Exodus 22.10-11.

I have not went into such great detail in any attempt to convince you to swear or take an oath. It appears to me that it would safest to not swear at all, even though we know that the apostle Paul took a vow, and used Gods name to affirm his statements at times.

James 5:12 ¶ But above all things, my brethren, swear not, neither by heaven, neither by the earth, neither by any other oath: but let your yea be yea; and [your] nay, nay; lest ye fall into condemnation.

As we see by this, James gives us the teaching of the New Covenant law concerning swearing, and it sounds very much like that of our Lord in His response to the false swearing of the Jews.

Here, the Lord by James teaches us that there is a danger of condemnation in taking any oath. All that we are commanded to do is to let our own character and reputation stand for affirmation of what we say.

In coming to your own understanding, I suggest that you study all of these passages together.

This was the point that I was trying to make with this study on swearing not at all. The point is the same as when we began, and that is that this study is designed to prove that Jesus never contradicted the Law of Moses. Jesus never commanded anyone during his days preceding his death, to disobey any of the Laws of Moses.

Yes, Jesus did teach many many truths which are to be obeyed by Christians.

Yes, Jesus did prophesy of the coming Kingdom, and used parables to teach the disciples about the coming church age.

Yes, the Gospels do teach us many important facts about the life and character of God.

Yes, the Gospels do teach us to appreciate the sacrifice of Jesus for our sins.

But, during the days preceding the death of Jesus, He never contradicted in any of His words the existing law of God at that time.

I refer you again to Matthew 5.17-19.

For those who seek to justify divorce and remarriage by insisting that Jesus was teaching new law to the future church of Christ in Matthew 5.32, 19.9, I would like to make a final, closing thought.

One day we will all stand before the Judgment seat of our Lord Jesus Christ and answer for our words, our deeds, our thoughts, and our teachings.

I pray that this article will stir your minds and consciences to study and to rightly divide the word of truth.

Please dont try to make the word of God contradict itself. In your studies, you should instead be studying with a mind to find understanding between those passages that seem to differ in their message, and see the true division which occurs at the cross of our Lord.

For the unity and continued power of evangelism of the true church of Christ, it is super important that we must never attempt to array one scripture against another, but to make all scriptures agree as being inspired from God. Once that you make one passage stand in contradiction of another passage, you not only lose your validity as a representative of Christ to the world, but you also begin the personal destruction of your own faith in the Divine inspiration of all the Holy Scriptures. At some point, you will go about to establish your own righteousness and you will recreate God in your own image.

Please dont try to falsely prove or try to justify to yourselves that wrong is right by taking scriptures out of context.

Personally, let me say that there is much in the Bible and much about the bible that I have yet to learn or comprehend, but the things that I do understand and know I feel compelled to share with others.

If you have studied this issue for yourself and believe that I am wrong, please feel free to comment.

HELL, What and Where It Is

2007-09-29T12:20:00.000-04:00

The Meaning of Hell
Sermon # 456; by Joe McClure; Date: 9/16/2007
The reason that I have chosen to teach on this topic today is to clear up any possible confusion that you might have on the subject.
Hell is a word that is often misunderstood in the KJV Bible.
Our goal today is to prove by the Scriptures what God has chosen to reveal to us about ‘hell’.
As I understand the Word of God, as long as the world continues to exist, hell consists of two parts, the place of punishment, and the place of rest for those whose souls are safe, including Christians who have died in the Lord.
At the final end of all material things, at the Judgment, those who are in the Paradise section will go to Heaven, the abode of God on His throne, with Jesus, Holy Spirit, and all the heavenly host.

As I hope to prove by the end of our study today, the translators of the King James Bible translated [4] four different original text words into the same English word, which is the word ‘hell’.
In the original manuscripts, in the Old Testament, first we find the Hebrew word of ‘Sheol’.
Sheol has been translated into several words in the OT. It is translated as the word ‘hell’, as ‘grave’ [31] thirty-one times, and [3] three times as the word ‘pit’.
‘Hades’ is the corresponding Greek word which is found in the NT.

Keep in mind as we study that the meaning of the word ‘hell’ can be understood by simply looking at the context of the passage in which it is found.

The first usage of the word ‘sheol’ is found in the book of Genesis.
Genesis 37:35
And all his sons and all his daughters rose up to comfort him; but he refused to be comforted; and he said, For I will go down into the grave unto my son mourning. Thus his father wept for him.
Jacob was mourning for what seemed to him to be the death of his son Joseph, who had been sold into slavery down into Egypt.
Sheol in this instance was the place of one’s soul in death, in a general sense. We cannot tell whether ‘Sheol’ was considered by Jacob as Heaven or the place of torment.
In all the places that we find the word ‘sheol’ in the book of Genesis, the word is translated into English as the word ‘grave’. The meaning is obviously correct as we read and study the context of all those passages.
‘Sheol’ is not found in the book of Exodus, nor Leviticus; but we find it again in the book of Numbers.
At its time of appearance, the children of Israel are in the wilderness, and a group of people had risen up against the authority of Moses. They challenged the right of Moses to assign the Holy services only to the Levites.
In the 16th chapter of Numbers, we see the judgment of the Lord against Korah and his followers.
Numbers 16:29-33 If these men die the common death of all men, or if they be visited after the visitation of all men; [then] the LORD hath not sent me. 30 But if the LORD make a new thing, and the earth open her mouth, and swallow them up, with all that [appertain] unto them, and they go down quick into the pit; then ye shall understand that these men have provoked the LORD. 31 And it came to pass, as he had made an end of speaking all these words, that the ground clave asunder that [was] under them: 32 And the earth opened her mouth, and swallowed them up, and their houses, and all the men that [appertained] unto Korah, and all [their] goods. 33 They, and all that [appertained] to them, went down alive into the pit, and the earth closed upon them: and they perished from among the congregation.
The earth became their grave and their physical judgment for their sin. However, the meaning seems to simply refer to the depths of the cavern into which they fell, the place they perished.
The next instance that I want to consider is found in the book of Deuteronomy, in the Song of Moses. Apparently, Moses prophesied this shortly before his death on Mount Nebo.
Deuteronomy 32:21-25 They have moved me to jealousy with [that which is] not God; they have provoked me to anger with their vanities: and I will move them to jealousy with [those which are] not a people; I will provoke them to anger with a foolish nation. 22 For a fire is kindled in mine anger, and shall burn unto the lowest hell, and shall consume the earth with her increase, and set on fire the foundations of the mountains. 23 I will heap mischiefs upon them; I will spend mine arrows upon them. 24 [They shall be] burnt with hunger, and devoured with burning heat, and with bitter destruction: I will also send the teeth of beasts upon them, with the poison of serpents of the dust. 25 The sword without, and terror within, shall destroy both the young man and the virgin, the suckling [also] with the man of gray hairs.
The song speaks of how God had chosen and blessed the children of Israel, and then speaks of God’s reaction to them when they will turn against God in favor of worshipping idols.
Because of their rejection of God and His Word, God promises them that He will no longer bless or protect them.
The text here promises them that they will be chastised.
Deuteronomy 32:22
For a fire is kindled in mine anger, and shall burn unto the lowest hell, and shall consume the earth with her increase, and set on fire the foundations of the mountains.
Here it appears that God’s wrath against those who reject Him burns in the earth and in the underworld as well.
In many of the places where the word ‘hell’ is used in the OT, the place of the dead in general is referred to, but in some cases, it appears to be the word by which the place of torment is referred.
Psalms 9:15-17 The heathen are sunk down in the pit [that] they made: in the net which they hid is their own foot taken. 16 The LORD is known [by] the judgment [which] he executeth: the wicked is snared in the work of his own hands. Higgaion. Selah. 17 The wicked shall be turned into hell, [and] all the nations that forget God.
By the context here, it seems that the wicked have been caught in the trap of their own making. The wicked have judged their own selves by choosing to forget God.
Psalm 55:15
Let death seize upon them, and let them go down quick into hell: for wickedness is in their dwellings, and among them.

There are several mentions made to the lowest hell, almost as if there were a part of hell that is higher.
Psalm 86:13
For great is thy mercy toward me: and thou hast delivered my soul from the lowest hell.
Proverbs 15:24
The way of life is above to the wise, that he may depart from hell beneath.
Proverbs 9:18
But he knoweth not that the dead are there; and that her guests are in the depths of hell.
When hell is considered as the place of destruction, or in completely negative terms, we can determine that the lowest hell, or the place of torment is under consideration.
In several of the passages, you will find the use of the phrase ‘hell and destruction’.
Proverbs 27:20
Hell and destruction are never full; so the eyes of man are never satisfied.
In such phrases, the word destruction is from the Hebrew word ABADDON.
We also find a mention of this in the book of Revelation.
Rev 9:11 And they had a king over them, [which is] the angel of the bottomless pit, whose name in the Hebrew tongue [is] Abaddon, but in the Greek tongue hath [his] name Apollyon.
As I prepare to move from the OT scriptures to the NT passages dealing with hell, let me emphasize one more time that ‘Sheol’, when translated as the word ‘Hell’ can either mean the general place of the
There is a prophecy concerning the death of Jesus, and His three [3] days and three [3] nights in the grave. Where was the soul of Jesus during this time?
Psalm 16:10
For thou wilt not leave my soul in hell; neither wilt thou suffer thine Holy One to see corruption.
Peter identified this prophecy as referring to our Lord in the Day of Pentecost sermon.
Acts 2:25 For David speaketh concerning him, I foresaw the Lord always before my face, for he is on my right hand, that I should not be moved: 6 Therefore did my heart rejoice, and my tongue was glad; moreover also my flesh shall rest in hope: 27 Because thou wilt not leave my soul in hell, neither wilt thou suffer thine Holy One to see corruption. Acts 2:28-31 Thou hast made known to me the ways of life; thou shalt make me full of joy with thy countenance. 29 Men [and] brethren, let me freely speak unto you of the patriarch David, that he is both dead and buried, and his sepulchre is with us unto this day. 30 Therefore being a prophet, and knowing that God had sworn with an oath to him, that of the fruit of his loins, according to the flesh, he would raise up Christ to sit on his throne; 31 He seeing this before spake of the resurrection of Christ, that his soul was not left in hell, neither his flesh did see corruption.
The Hebrew word used in the OT prophecy is ‘Sheol’ and the Greek word in Acts 2.27 is ‘hades’.
Where was Jesus when He was in hell? Was he in the place of torment?
When Jesus hung between the two [2] thieves on the cross, one mocked Him, and one believed. We notice what Jesus said to the believing one:
Luke 23:39-43 And one of the malefactors which were hanged railed on him, saying, If thou be Christ, save thyself and us. 40 But the other answering rebuked him, saying, Dost not thou fear God, seeing thou art in the same condemnation? 41 And we indeed justly; for we receive the due reward of our deeds: but this man hath done nothing amiss. 42 And he said unto Jesus, Lord, remember me when thou comest into thy kingdom. 43 And Jesus said unto him, Verily I say unto thee, To day shalt thou be with me in paradise.
I believe the best explanation regarding Hades, or Hell, in the account of the rich man and Lazarus.
Luke 16:19-26 There was a certain rich man, which was clothed in purple and fine linen, and fared sumptuously every day: 20 And there was a certain beggar named Lazarus, which was laid at his gate, full of sores, 21 And desiring to be fed with the crumbs which fell from the rich man's table: moreover the dogs came and licked his sores. 22 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; 23 And in hell he lift up his eyes, being in torments, and seeth Abraham afar off, and Lazarus in his bosom. 24 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. 25 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. 26 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.
The rich man was in torment in hell, and could see across the gulf to where Abraham and Lazarus were, and spake to Abraham. This seems to teach that the place where all the current dead wait are in the same area; and would seem to agree with the picture we get from the OT concerning Hell.
As we earlier considered, the thief on the cross was in Paradise with Jesus.
It seems that Abraham and Lazarus were in Paradise as well.
GEHENNA:
The first place we find the word ‘Gehenna’ is in Matthew 5.22. This word is also translated into the word ‘Hell’; but it has a different meaning than ‘Hades’, in that it is more specific in that it refers to the punishment section of Hell.
Matthew 10:28
And fear not them which kill the body, but are not able to kill the soul: but rather fear him which is able to destroy both soul and body in hell.

Matthew 23:33
Ye serpents, ye generation of vipers, how can ye escape the damnation of hell?

Mark 9:43
And if thy hand offend thee, cut it off: it is better for thee to enter into life maimed, than having two hands to go into hell, into the fire that never shall be quenched:

James 3:6
And the tongue is a fire, a world of iniquity: so is the tongue among our members, that it defileth the whole body, and setteth on fire the course of nature; and it is set on fire of hell.
Tarturus: Finally we have our last word which is also translated as ‘hell, and is found in only one verse, and speaks of the hell for the angels who await the final Judgment Day.
2 Peter 2:4
For if God spared not the angels that sinned, but cast them down to hell, and delivered them into chains of darkness, to be reserved unto judgment;
In closing, it appears that the death and hell will give up their dead at the final Judgment Day, and then Hades will be burned up in the lake of fire which will be for the final punishment.
Revelation 20:12 And I saw the dead, small and great, stand before God; and the books were opened: and another book was opened, which is [the book] of life: and the dead were judged out of those things which were written in the books, according to their works. 13 And the sea gave up the dead which were in it; and death and hell delivered up the dead which were in them: and they were judged every man according to their works. 14 And death and hell were cast into the lake of fire. This is the second death. 15 And whosoever was not found written in the book of life was cast into the lake of fire.

JEHOVAH YAHWEH

2007-09-29T12:16:00.000-04:00

JEHOVAH, and OTHER NAMES OF GOD
SERMON # 451; BY JOE McClure; DATE: 5/20/2007

In thousands of the Hebrew Scriptures, the word ‘Jehovah’ is used to refer to God.
Today, many men have written books regarding the various names of God, and much is made of them as doctrinal issues. For instance, some say that it is imperative that we address God in prayer as Jehovah.
Let me preface our study by saying that I may have missed some of the designations by which God is referred to in the Scriptures, but by the end of this study, I hope that you might see the importance given to the name of God in the Holy Scriptures.
To begin with, I want to just read you a couple of passages, just to set the tone of our study, found in Deuteronomy 28.58 and Daniel 2.19-23.
Deuteronomy 28:58 If thou wilt not observe to do all the words of this law that are written in this book, that thou mayest fear this glorious and fearful name, THE LORD THY GOD;
The general idea was to give God and His name the utmost respect in obedience; to reverence and stand in awe of God.
To give you an idea of the complexity of the study of the name of God, bear with in looking at just these two passages of scriptures.
In Deuteronomy 28.58, the name of God, which is printed in the English language translation as ‘THE Lord THY GOD’ has as its original Hebrew the following:
The Lord---Hebrew word [Yehovah, pronounced as yeh-ho-vaw] is found in 6,519 times in the Scriptures. {Strong’s No. 03068}
Thy God—Plural Hebrew word [Elohiym, pronounced as el-o-heem] is used in reference to God 2, 346 times in the Scriptures. {Strong’s No. 0430}
In those times, there were many names used by the heathen nations to identify their false idol gods, such as the name of Baal.
So, we might easily understand the importance placed on a separate identity of the true God, and an understanding of His power, and a consideration of past great deeds that God had accomplished.
Next, we look at the passage from Daniel 2.19-23.
Daniel 2:19-23 Then was the secret revealed unto Daniel in a night vision. Then Daniel blessed the God of heaven.
20 Daniel answered and said, Blessed be the name of God for ever and ever: for wisdom and might are his: 21 And he changeth the times and the seasons: he removeth kings, and setteth up kings: he giveth wisdom unto the wise, and knowledge to them that know understanding: 22 He revealeth the deep and secret things: he knoweth what [is] in the darkness, and the light dwelleth with him.
23 I thank thee, and praise thee, O thou God of my fathers, who hast given me wisdom and might, and hast made known unto me now what we desired of thee: for thou hast [now] made known unto us the king's matter.

In Daniel 2.19, we find ‘the God of heaven’ used, in V.20, ‘the name of God’ and then in V.23 ‘God of my fathers’. The same word from the Aramaic is translated as God in all of these verses.
The God—Aramaic word [elahh, pronounced as el-aw’] is used in reference to God 79 times in the Scriptures. {Strongs No. 0426}
In many of the Hebrew passages, the word ‘el’ is used 213 times by itself to indicate the word ‘God, and 16 times to indicate the word ‘god’; such as when referring to the strange or false god; [Strong’s #410].
At times ‘el’ is used with various endings, such as ‘elohiym, and elowahh’ are plural and singular of God in some Scriptures.
Elohiym is the Hebrew word that is translated as ‘God’ in Genesis 1.1.
Genesis 1:1 In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth.
It is interesting to notice that the plural of the word ‘elowahh’ (el-o’-ah). El-o’-ah is used 52 times in the Scriptures in reference to God.
In a couple of Scriptures we find the word ‘El’ put at the end of another word, such as with the word ‘Immanuel’, which means ‘with us is God’ [Isaiah 7.14; 8.8].
Isaiah 7:14 Therefore the Lord himself shall give you a sign; Behold, a virgin shall conceive, and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel.
This word ‘el-aw’, used by Daniel to refer to God, is credited as the same word used by Jesus on the cross, but translated and written in Greek as ‘el-o-ee’.
Mark 15:34-- And at the ninth hour Jesus cried with a loud voice, saying, Eloi, Eloi, lama sabachthani? which is, being interpreted, My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me?
El-o-ee’ in the Greek simply means ‘My God’. The Greek word translated as God in Mark 15.34 is ‘theos’ [theh’-os] and is the common word found in the NT Greek Scriptures, and is used by its writers 1,320 times.
· As you can begin to see; while various English words have been used to simplify various Hebrew, Aramaic, and Greek words into the idea of God or Lord; the subject is more complex than this.
The question for me today is whether I can do a good enough job on explaining this topic so that anyone could understand, or at least good enough so that you might be prompted in the right direction, in your home studies.
Lets start with the story of Moses, as he is being called by God to deliver the children of Israel from their bondage.
Exodus 3:13-14 And Moses said unto God, Behold, [when] I come unto the children of Israel, and shall say unto them, The God of your fathers hath sent me unto you; and they shall say to me, What [is] his name? what shall I say unto them? 14 And God said unto Moses, I AM THAT I AM: and he said, Thus shalt thou say unto the children of Israel, I AM hath sent me unto you.
God’s name “I AM” seems to indicate the eternal existence of God, that he was, and is, and will be.
This passage in Exodus 3.14 reminds me of what Jesus said to the 7 churches of Asia.
Rev. 1:8I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the ending, saith the Lord, which is, and which was, and which is to come, the Almighty.
Another familiar way that God is referred to is as the God of somebody.
Exodus 3:15 And God said moreover unto Moses, Thus shalt thou say unto the children of Israel, The LORD God of your fathers, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob, hath sent me unto you: this [is] my name for ever, and this [is] my memorial unto all generations.
Next in our study of the name of God, look to Exodus 6.3, shortly before God dealt with Pharoah.
Exodus 6:2-3 And God spake unto Moses, and said unto him, I [am] the LORD: 3 And I appeared unto Abraham, unto Isaac, and unto Jacob, by [the name of] God Almighty, but by my name JEHOVAH was I not known to them.
God told Moses that His name is Jehovah, but when he appeared to the patriarchal fathers of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob that He was known to them by another designation.
To Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, God was known as ‘God Almighty’, or in the Hebrew language as el-shadday [ale’-shad-dah-ee’] {Genesis 14.22; 17.1}. [Strong’s No. 7706 + 430]
Genesis 17:1 And when Abram was ninety years old and nine, the LORD appeared to Abram, and said unto him, I [am] the Almighty God; walk before me, and be thou perfect.
While the patriarchs made reference to Jehovah Elohiym in many places, they knew God by the designation of Almighty God, or El-Shaddai.
God was also known to Abraham as El-yone, or the most high God.
El-Shaddai expresses the MIGHT of the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob; Elyon, [05945 ‘elyown, pronounced as el-yone’] identified God (el) as the highest of all authorities or rulers, or ‘the most high God’.
Genesis 14:22 And Abram said to the king of Sodom, I have lift up mine hand unto the LORD, the most high God, the possessor of heaven and earth,
{Lord, most high, God=Jehovah, Elyon El}
ADONAI: [ad-o-nay’]
Abraham also addressed God as Adonai, as a proper name for God.
Genesis 15:1-2 After these things the word of the LORD came unto Abram in a vision, saying, Fear not, Abram: I [am] thy shield, [and] thy exceeding great reward. 2 And Abram said, Lord GOD, what wilt thou give me, seeing I go childless, and the steward of my house [is] this Eliezer of Damascus?
Adonay (Strong’s No. 136); found 431 times in the Scriptures, seems to have been a word used to show servitude to God as master. Adonay is a form of Adown [aw-done], which is translated most of the time as ‘master’ and is itself also used in a few cases to refer to God {31 times}.
ADOWN:
Adown is used when referring to the ark of the Lord, and in another occasion as ‘Lord of lords’.
Moses used ‘Adown’ in the following Scripture:
Deuteronomy 10:17 For the LORD your God [is] God of gods, and Lord of lords, a great God, a mighty, and a terrible, which regardeth not persons, nor taketh reward:
Later, in the wilderness, Moses entered into the Tabernacle of the congregation, which was without the camp, and there spoke with the Lord. This was on the occasion after they had built the golden calf, and Moses had come down off the mountain.
The Lord said the following to Moses:
Exodus 33:19 And he said, I will make all my goodness pass before thee, and I will proclaim the name of the LORD before thee; and will be gracious to whom I will be gracious, and will shew mercy on whom I will shew mercy.
In other words, God told Moses that He would tell him the name of Jehovah [Hebrew words—‘shame’=name + Yeh-ho-vah’ or the Lord]
Then in the next chapter, Moses went back up on the mount Horeb, to receive the 2nd writing of the commandments.
God spoke with Moses, and we notice that he identified Himself.
Exodus 34:14 For thou shalt worship no other god: for the LORD, whose name [is] Jealous, [is] a jealous God:
God told Moses that His name is the Lord [Yehovah], whose name is Jealous {qanna’ , pronounced as kan-naw’ }, or Jehovah Jealous.
Coupled with God’s desire to keep Israel faithful to Him only, in His possessiveness, with a desire for Israel to not be led away after false gods, God also revealed that He is a consuming fire.
Joshua 24:19-21 And Joshua said unto the people, Ye cannot serve the LORD: for he [is] an holy God; he [is] a jealous God; he will not forgive your transgressions nor your sins. 20 If ye forsake the LORD, and serve strange gods, then he will turn and do you hurt, and consume you, after that he hath done you good. 21 And the people said unto Joshua, Nay; but we will serve the LORD.
Here in Joshua 24.19, Jehovah is an Holy Elohiym (plural); Jehovah is a jealous El [ale’](singular).
Lord God of Hosts:
Another designation which is used about 100 times in the Scriptures is that of Lord or God of Hosts.
1Sa 17:45 Then said David to the Philistine, Thou comest to me with a sword, and with a spear, and with a shield: but I come to thee in the name of the LORD of hosts, the God of the armies of Israel, whom thou hast defied.
For Israel, El-Yeh-ho-vah was their Jehovah God of war against their enemies. In most of the places in which this phrase is used, it was written as ‘Lord God of Hosts’.
In such passages, we find other words for our study, that of JAH [Strong’s No. 3050, used 49 times].
Psalms 89:5-8 And the heavens shall praise thy wonders, O LORD: thy faithfulness also in the congregation of the saints. 6 For who in the heaven can be compared unto the LORD? [who] among the sons of the mighty can be likened unto the LORD? 7 God is greatly to be feared in the assembly of the saints, and to be had in reverence of all [them that are] about him. 8 O LORD God of hosts, who [is] a strong LORD like unto thee? or to thy faithfulness round about thee?
Here in V.8, when it says ‘who is a strong Lord’, the word ‘Lord’ came from the Hebrew word JAH (yaw), another name for God.
In one occasion, we see this actually has been translated as JAH.
Psalm 68:4
Sing unto God, sing praises to his name: extol him that rideth upon the heavens by his name JAH, and rejoice before him.
In Isaiah 26.4, JAH JEHOVAH is found together in reference to the Lord.
Isaiah 26:4 Trust ye in the LORD for ever: for in the LORD JEHOVAH [is] everlasting strength:
You might already know this, but the name of God is found at the end of the word ‘Hallelujah’, which means, ‘praise ye God’.
Throughout the Scriptures, it is common to find several words for God combined together, as we have seen above.
In Amos 5.16, you can find Jehovah Elohim Adonay all used together for an example, as well as God of Hosts.
Amos 5:16 Therefore the LORD, the God of hosts, the Lord, saith thus; Wailing [shall be] in all streets; and they shall say in all the highways, Alas! alas! and they shall call the husbandman to mourning, and such as are skilful of lamentation to wailing.
Amos 5:16 Therefore the LORD <03068--Jehovah>, the God <0430--Elohyim> of hosts <06635>, the Lord <0136--Adonay>,
There are some less used words used to refer to God, such as the Rock of salvation. [Strong’s No. 6697, ‘tsur’, 2 times]
Deuteronomy 32:15 But Jeshurun waxed fat, and kicked: thou art waxen fat, thou art grown thick, thou art covered [with fatness]; then he forsook God [which] made him, and lightly esteemed the Rock of his salvation.

Before we leave the OT, I want to examine briefly some phrases we see as combination words with the name Jehovah.
JEHOVAH-JIREH:
As we know the account of the time that the Lord told Abraham to sacrifice his only son Isaac on an altar as a sacrifice to God, and that it was a test of Abraham’s faith, and that God in the end provided a ram as the sacrificial offering. In this context, we find the word Jehovahjireh [Strong’s No. 3070].
Genesis 22:14 And Abraham called the name of that place Jehovahjireh: as it is said [to] this day, In the mount of the LORD it shall be seen.
While Mt. Moriah was called Jehovahjireh by Abraham, he did so because it meant that it shall be seen by the Lord in that place. The word ‘Jehovahjireh’ actually means ‘Jehovah sees’.
Some have used Jehovahjireh to mean that God will see our needs and provide, seeing that God did provide a sacrifice for Abraham.
If we are looking for a parallel, we might consider that those who go up to the mountain of the Lord’s house will be provided salvation and spiritual blessings promised by God.
Isaiah 2:2-3 And it shall come to pass in the last days, [that] the mountain of the LORD'S house shall be established in the top of the mountains, and shall be exalted above the hills; and all nations shall flow unto it. 3 And many people shall go and say, Come ye, and let us go up to the mountain of the LORD, to the house of the God of Jacob; and he will teach us of his ways, and we will walk in his paths: for out of Zion shall go forth the law, and the word of the LORD from Jerusalem.
JEHOVAH-NISSI:
Exodus 17:15-16 And Moses built an altar, and called the name of it Jehovahnissi: 16 For he said, Because the LORD hath sworn [that] the LORD [will have] war with Amalek from generation to generation.
The saying ‘Jehovah-nissi’ means ‘Jehovah ,my banner’.
Obviously this altar was a sign of the promise God to Moses regarding the conflict with the Amaleks.
JEHOVAH-SHALOM:
Judges 6:22-24 And when Gideon perceived that he [was] an angel of the LORD, Gideon said, Alas, O Lord GOD! for because I have seen an angel of the LORD face to face. 23 And the LORD said unto him, Peace [be] unto thee; fear not: thou shalt not die. 24 Then Gideon built an altar there unto the LORD, and called it Jehovahshalom: unto this day it [is] yet in Ophrah of the Abiezrites.
The word ‘Jehovahshalom’ means that Jehovah is peace. Again, we see that it is used to name an altar to the Lord, as Jehovahjireh, and Jehovahnissi were names for places of altars.
Jehovah-shammah: Jehovah is in it.
Jehovah is there, the symbolical title given by Ezekiel to Jerusalem, which was seen by him in vision #Eze 48:35
We might rightly say that Jehovah is in the church of Christ, as God dwells in our hearts.
Ezekiel 48:35 [It was] round about eighteen thousand [measures]: and the name of the city from [that] day [shall be], The LORD [is] there.
JEHOVAH-TSIDKENU:
Jehovah our rightousness, rendered in the Authorized Version, "The LORD our righteousness," a title given to the Messiah #Jer 23.6.
Jeremiah 23:5-6 Behold, the days come, saith the LORD, that I will raise unto David a righteous Branch, and a King shall reign and prosper, and shall execute judgment and justice in the earth. 6 In his days Judah shall be saved, and Israel shall dwell safely: and this [is] his name whereby he shall be called, THE LORD OUR RIGHTEOUSNESS.
As we turn our minds to the Messiah, Jesus Christ, we would not want to ignore the prophecy of Isaiah regarding His name.
Isaiah 7:14 Therefore the Lord himself shall give you a sign; Behold, a virgin shall conceive, and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel.
We see this prophecy fulfilled in the birth of Jesus Christ, and the definition of the word ‘Immanuel’ in the NT.
Matthew 1:20 But while he thought on these things, behold, the angel of the Lord appeared unto him in a dream, saying, Joseph, thou son of David, fear not to take unto thee Mary thy wife: for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Ghost. 21 And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name JESUS: for he shall save his people from their sins. 22 Now all this was done, that it might be fulfilled which was spoken of the Lord by the prophet, saying, 23 Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call his name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us.
Another Messianic prophecy is found in Isaiah 9.6, and the names of the Messiah are given.
Isaiah 9:6 For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.
In the NT, we find far less words being used to name God in those texts.
The Greek word ‘theos’ is used to indicate the supreme deity in most cases.
John 20:17 Jesus saith unto her, Touch me not; for I am not yet ascended to my Father: but go to my brethren, and say unto them, I ascend unto my Father, and your Father; and [to] my God, and your God.
Jesus: The word Jesus is a form of the OT word ‘Joshua’ and means Yahweh is salvation.
However, the Most High God is referred to as distinct from the Son and the Spirit in:
Luke 1:35 And the angel answered and said unto her, The Holy Ghost shall come upon thee, and the power of the Highest shall overshadow thee: therefore also that holy thing which shall be born of thee shall be called the Son of God.
In this message from the angel, we see the work of the Holy Ghost, the Most High God, and the Son of God.
Here the ‘Highest’ is from the Greek word hupsistos, [pronounced hoop’-sis-tos] {Strong’s No. 5310}, meaning simply the Most High God. {used 13 times in NT}.
While the same word is used in the Greek for the word ‘God’ throughout the NT Scriptures, there are several qualifying words used with His name, such as God of glory [Acts 7.2]; God of peace [Romans 15.33]; God of love and peace [2 Cor. 13.11]; God of patience and comfort [Romans 15.5]; God of hope [Romans 15.13]; and God of all grace [I Peter 5.10].
Despotes—G 1203—Master, translated as Lord 5 times in NT.
Acts 4:21-25 So when they had further threatened them, they let them go, finding nothing how they might punish them, because of the people: for all [men] glorified God for that which was done. 22 For the man was above forty years old, on whom this miracle of healing was shewed. 23 And being let go, they went to their own company, and reported all that the chief priests and elders had said unto them. 24 And when they heard that, they lifted up their voice to God with one accord, and said, Lord, thou [art] God, which hast made heaven, and earth, and the sea, and all that in them is: 25 Who by the mouth of thy servant David hast said, Why did the heathen rage, and the people imagine vain things?
While I know that this was a lot of information to take in today, I hope that I have at least planted some seeds in your minds for some future study.
I hope that you will no longer take the word God and Lord for granted when you read the Scriptures, but will hunt for more information when you study.
I also know that in regard to the titles of Christ and the Holy Spirit in the NT that I did not deal with them much, but to do so would take a couple of hours more to speak with you on them, as there are many descriptive words and phrases which apply to our Lord Jesus in the NT.
I might teach on them in a later sermon.
INVITATION:

Peter-Why Did He Fail?

2007-09-29T12:09:00.000-04:00

WHY Peter FAILED
SERMON #303; 2/27/2000; BY JOE McCLURE; Text: Matthew 26.31-75

We live among a great number of people who claim to be Christians. These great numbers have reached a comfort level with their religion.

In their comfort zone, they have become confident that the religious doctrines they believe are founded on the rock of the teachings of Jesus Christ.

Most who name the name of Christ would tell you that they would not dare to ever disobey the teachings of Christ.

What is the difference in what the majority believes and what we believe?

There are two simple factors:

1. Perception of truth

2. Actual truth

If a person has been believing and practicing a doctrine, or following a particular system of religion their entire lives, it is understandable that they would reject the concept that they might be wrong, to the point of losing their souls.

The above is also true for us, to some extent. We should never get so comfortable in our faith that we stop studying and examining our faith by the faith of the gospel of Christ.

Today, I want each of us to humble ourselves, and to admit a truth that is brought out by our lesson today, that is, that we are just as likely to make a mistake as Peter was over 2,000 years ago.

Peter was blessed to have been with Jesus at the beginning of His ministry, and to sit at his feet, so to speak; and to have been privy to fellowship with the Son of God in the flesh. Peter walked with our Lord and expressed his love and devotion and loyalty to Jesus.

In a moment of weakness, Peter denied his Lord.

Turn with me to Matthew 26.31-35 for our first reading.

Matthew 26:31-35 Then saith Jesus unto them, All ye shall be offended because of me this night: for it is written, I will smite the shepherd, and the sheep of the flock shall be scattered abroad. 32 But after I am risen again, I will go before you into Galilee. 33 Peter answered and said unto him, Though all [men] shall be offended because of thee, [yet] will I never be offended. 34 Jesus said unto him, Verily I say unto thee, That this night, before the cock crow, thou shalt deny me thrice. 35 Peter said unto him, Though I should die with thee, yet will I not deny thee. Likewise also said all the disciples.

Most of you would make this same statement. It might even be said that most who proclaim to be Christians would cry out with us that nothing in this world could ever cause us to deny Christ.

We should all have this attitude, that even though we were crucified for being Christians, we would never deny our Lord.\

Today, in this lesson, I want to examine several factors, which may give us some trouble as we continue to serve Christ.

I. Conceit—in our reading, Jesus told Peter that he would offended because of Him that very night. Jesus was incapable of lying to Peter, and in His divinity, he could not be wrong in His predictions. Peter should have known these facts about his Lord.

We see the conceit of Peter in his answer to Jesus in Matthew 26.33, from our text.

Matthew 26:33 Peter answered and said unto him, Though all [men] shall be offended because of thee, [yet] will I never be offended.

While Peter’s protest is understandable from a human aspect, his protest is the same as accusing Jesus of not knowing what he is talking about.

Peter felt that if everyone else in the world denied Jesus, that he would be the one man left who would always remain loyal. To Peter’s way of thinking, it was inconceivable for him to fail Christ.

Even though our Lord told Peter that he would deny Him (3) three times before the crowing of the rooster that next morning, Peter refused to believe Jesus.

Matthew 26:35 Peter said unto him, Though I should die with thee, yet will I not deny thee. Likewise also said all the disciples.

Today, consider that many folks in the church come to a place in their spiritual growth that they believe that they are so grounded in the true faith of Jesus Christ that there is very little, if any chance that they will fall from grace.

When complacent Christians hear a good strong sermon, which admonishes of the dangers to the soul, they refuse to apply it to their own lives. Instead, they hear the sermon as applying to someone else. They silently think of all the sinners who need to hear that sermon. Many are so filled with self-confidence in their faith that they can no longer be touched with the truth.

Such self-confidence is extremely dangerous for Christians.

Ask yourself these questions:

· Am I so conceited that I think that I know and understand the message of all the Holy commandments of God?

· Am I so conceited that I believe that I am in complete obedience to all of God’s teachings?

1 Corinthians 10:12 Wherefore let him that thinketh he standeth take heed lest he fall.

· Am I so conceited that I refuse to admit the remotest possibility that I might fail at some point to obey the will of Christ in every part of my life?

Are you willing to take heed to your Christian service, considering that you might fall from your steadfastness?

2 Peter 3:17 Ye therefore, beloved, seeing ye know [these things] before, beware lest ye also, being led away with the error of the wicked, fall from your own stedfastness.

Too much self-confidence leads us to rely upon our own personal power, instead of placing our confidence in the power of God. To be a good servant, we must rely upon our master in all parts of our life.

Peter was conceited to the point that he knew with full confidence that, regardless of what Christ said, he could rely upon himself to stay true to Christ.

When we call ourselves Christians, we have committed to Christ to give up the old man of self, and to add the new man, which is in Christ.

Our confidence must be totally in Christ if we are to grow as Christians.

If Peter had trusted in the words of Christ, he would have known that he would deny Christ that night.

Our life in Christ must rest upon the faith of the gospel of Jesus Christ; else we will have our life in the world, and in its lusts.

Hebrews 10:34-39 For ye had compassion of me in my bonds, and took joyfully the spoiling of your goods, knowing in yourselves that ye have in heaven a better and an enduring substance. 35 Cast not away therefore your confidence, which hath great recompence of reward. 36 For ye have need of patience, that, after ye have done the will of God, ye might receive the promise. 37 For yet a little while, and he that shall come will come, and will not tarry. 38 Now the just shall live by faith: but if [any man] draw back, my soul shall have no pleasure in him. 39 But we are not of them who draw back unto perdition; but of them that believe to the saving of the soul.

Unless you misunderstand, here we see that we are to have confidence, but not that confidence which is from our human flesh.

The confidence pleasing to God is that which is based totally upon the word of God and that Word warns us of our weaknesses.

The Word in which we trust warns us that we will be tempted to depend upon our flesh instead of the spirit. The Word teaches us that our strength should come from a daily feeding of the soul by our communion with God.

Philippians 2:12-13 Wherefore, my beloved, as ye have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling. 13 For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of [his] good pleasure.

When the church has stopped trembling with fear, they are likely to look to themselves instead of to God for their leadership. We must continue to contemplate the greatness of our Father in Heaven, and the great Judgment Day where those who have rejected Christ shall experience His wrath.

One of the great problems of many who claim to religious is that they are more concerned with working out the salvation of everyone else, while ignoring their own salvation, secretly believing there is no possibility of falling from grace.

The cautionary note here is that we must realize the weakness of the human flesh compared to the perfect character of our Lord Jesus Christ. We must realize that human conceit is dangerous temptation that is arrayed against our souls. We need to realize our own personal need for humility before we insist upon that humility for others.

Proverbs 16:18-19 Pride [goeth] before destruction, and an haughty spirit before a fall. 19 Better [it is to be] of an humble spirit with the lowly, than to divide the spoil with the proud.

Now, let’s look at the next reason why Peter failed.

II. EASE—Peter was not alert and watchful over his own soul in the time of his denial of Jesus.

Again, we shall see that Peter denied for himself the truth of what Jesus had said. Jesus had warned the disciples that His hour was near. He and His disciples moved to the Garden of Gethsemane and Jesus went off to pray. When Jesus had prayed a while, He came back and found them asleep.

The disciples were at ease in the hour of His trial.

Matthew 26:37-41 And he took with him Peter and the two sons of Zebedee, and began to be sorrowful and very heavy. 38 Then saith he unto them, My soul is exceeding sorrowful, even unto death: tarry ye here, and watch with me. 39 And he went a little further, and fell on his face, and prayed, saying, O my Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from me: nevertheless not as I will, but as thou [wilt]. 40 And he cometh unto the disciples, and findeth them asleep, and saith unto Peter, What, could ye not watch with me one hour? 41 Watch and pray, that ye enter not into temptation: the spirit indeed [is] willing, but the flesh [is] weak.

By His own words, Jesus warned them of the weakness of their flesh. In such times, He pointed out to them of their need for prayer to sustain them in the moment of temptation.

Many times we fail to recognize the dangers around us in life.

We go off to work, or to play and those around us are busy with life, serving sin. For the most part, our fellows around us are not talking to the Lord. We must depend upon God’s Word to remind us of the need to watch and pray.

We are in danger of spiritually letting down our guard, and becoming at ease when danger is all around us.

Peter was not vigilant in watching against the temptation to deny Christ, and was not praying for strength to stand with Christ. Instead, he admitted that he believed that he would not deny Christ. Since no danger existed for Peter, there was no need to watch out for that danger, or to pray about it.

Later on in Peter’s life, he wrote this warning:

1 Peter 5:6-9 Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time: 7 Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you. 8 Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour: 9 Whom resist stedfast in the faith, knowing that the same afflictions are accomplished in your brethren that are in the world.

At the time when Peter failed, he was not vigilant. He was not watching and praying. He was at ease spiritually.

Peter should have been in prayer asking God for the strength to stand with Jesus in His hour of trial.

We fail sometimes to realize the dangers, and that in a figurative sense there is a Judas in our life that will bring Satan to attack us.

One danger is that our worldly friends can kill our spiritual life, if we allow it.

We must be on our guard against the desire to be like the rest of the world. If you are not alert, and watchful, with prayer; you can find yourself being led astray by those you admire the most.

III. RASHNESS—Another factor for Peter’s denial of Jesus was his tendency to make rash statements, and decisions.

In other words, we need to think a while sometimes before deciding a course of action; to meditate on God’s teaching, and think about what scriptures might apply to our situation, and how they lead us.

Ecclesiastes 5:2 Be not rash with thy mouth, and let not thine heart be hasty to utter [any] thing before God: for God [is] in heaven, and thou upon earth: therefore let thy words be few.

After we have studied the Word of God, and learned its meaning, these words help prepare us to face the temptations of the world. However, when we are in battle against Satan, it is important for us to be access God’s message in our minds, for our strength and guidance.

1 Timothy 4:13 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. 16 Take heed unto thyself, and unto the doctrine; continue in them: for in doing this thou shalt both save thyself, and them that hear thee.

Peter should have been prepared to face the capture and trial of the Lord. When Jesus was arrested, even though Peter had been taught to turn the other cheek, and to depend upon God, Peter’s first inclination was to fight with the sword.

As if not even thinking twice about what he had heard taught by Jesus, he reached for his sword as the answer.

John 18:10-11 Then Simon Peter having a sword drew it, and smote the high priest's servant, and cut off his right ear. The servant's name was Malchus. 11 Then said Jesus unto Peter, Put up thy sword into the sheath: the cup which my Father hath given me, shall I not drink it?

Why did Peter act so rashly in this situation?

Peter should have known that Jesus was against using swords to protect Him. Peter did not show any trust in the power or will of God in this situation, but depended upon his own abilities to attack those who came to arrest Jesus.

Many times we are forced to react without thinking.

Sometimes we act rashly before thinking of the will of God.

When we are attacked by Satan, we should be prepared by our study of the Holy Scriptures, which will guide us; whether we are totally aware or not.

What does the Bible teach us to say, or to do in any given situation?

Doe we think about God’s will for most of our daily decisions?

Peter should have realized that God would take care of any vengeance upon the guilty.

Peter had sat and listened to the following teaching from the Lord:

Matthew 5:38-39 Ye have heard that it hath been said, An eye for an eye, and a tooth for a tooth: 39 But I say unto you, That ye resist not evil: but whosoever shall smite thee on thy right cheek, turn to him the other also.

Their enemies were evident. We have those today who are against us when we stand with Christ, and we should not act rashly when attacked.

We are tempted to use our own human power or wits when we should rely instead on the teachings of the gospel.

The cause of bringing the message of salvation to the lost must be promoted with love and not force.

Some religions use force to coerce the masses to assume their religion, but not Jesus.

We need to back up our words of conviction with Christlike actions.

We must find some way to love those who are against the truth; some way to love those who stand against us in every way. How to express such love is shown to us in the Scriptures, so the answers are in the Word, if we will but learn them.

It is hard from a fleshly standpoint to show love for someone who has just hurt you in some way; or for your enemies.

[ASV] 1 Peter 3:8 ¶ Finally, [be] ye all likeminded, compassionate, loving as brethren, tenderhearted, humbleminded: 9 not rendering evil for evil, or reviling for reviling; but contrariwise blessing; for hereunto were ye called, that ye should inherit a blessing. 10 For, He that would love life, And see good days, Let him refrain his tongue from evil, And his lips that they speak no guile: 11 And let him turn away from evil, and do good; Let him seek peace, and pursue it. 12 For the eyes of the Lord are upon the righteous, And his ears unto their supplication: But the face of the Lord is upon them that do evil. 13 And who is he that will harm you, if ye be zealous of that which is good?

Jesus, through the inspiration of Peter, teaches us to not do evil to those who do evil against us. We are to bless those who curse us.

In the flesh, this is almost impossible to do; but it is possible ‘in Christ’.

We are to follow the example of Christ, and how he reacted when he was abused.

1 Peter 2:20 For what glory [is it], if, when ye be buffeted for your faults, ye shall take it patiently? but if, when ye do well, and suffer [for it], ye take it patiently, this [is] acceptable with God. 21 For even hereunto were ye called: because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that ye should follow his steps: 22 Who did no sin, neither was guile found in his mouth: 23 Who, when he was reviled, reviled not again; when he suffered, he threatened not; but committed himself to him that judgeth righteously: 24 Who his own self bare our sins in his own body on the tree, that we, being dead to sins, should live unto righteousness: by whose stripes ye were healed.

Do you follow this example, or do you insult those who insult you?

The only way possible is to live unto righteousness, or the way revealed by our Lord.

When someone shows that they dislike you or hate you, do you continue to do good things for that person, or do you withhold your favor until they apologize?

The rash thing is to respond as a human, but the spiritual thing is to stop and think and meditate upon the will of Christ before acting.

IV. FOLLOWED AFAR OFF—The fourth reason that Peter failed is that he was not close to the Master in the hour of temptation. As Jesus was being led to His trial, where was Peter?

Matthew 26:57-58 And they that had laid hold on Jesus led [him] away to Caiaphas the high priest, where the scribes and the elders were assembled. 58 But Peter followed him afar off unto the high priest's palace, and went in, and sat with the servants, to see the end.

Again, Peter showed his humanity.

To walk with Jesus means that we will be judged like Jesus. When there is a controversy between people, with some holding to the teachings of the gospel, and others departing from the truth; there are always some who are weak, and follow afar off.

Some consider that it is safer for them to not get involved and to stay quietly in the background, and wait until the dust settles, so to speak. If they choose the winning side, they won’t be persecuted; but if they wait to take sides with the resulting majority, they won’t suffer, from a fleshly view.

We should never be afraid to side with God. Are you following afar off, or are you jumping into the fray with both feet, willing to suffer for the cause of truth?

When your friends speak out against something you believe to be the truth, do you follow afar; that is, do you choose to stay silent?

Ephesians 4:25-27 Wherefore putting away lying, speak every man truth with his neighbour: for we are members one of another. 26 Be ye angry, and sin not: let not the sun go down upon your wrath: 27 Neither give place to the devil.

Peter followed Jesus, but not very close. This is the way of many today claiming to be Christians. We claim to follow Jesus, but how close are we following?

Do we follow close enough to be condemned when the truth is on trial?

We are not only taught to follow Christ, but to also walk with Him, to be near Him, and to be close to Him; in communion with Christ.

James 4:7-8 Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. 8 Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you. Cleanse [your] hands, [ye] sinners; and purify [your] hearts, [ye] double minded.

V. EVIL ASSOCIATIONS—As Peter denied Jesus, he found himself in the company of the enemy. If he had been with all of the other disciples, walking by the side of Jesus, it would have been a lot more difficult to deny Jesus.

Many times today, when the truth is put on trial, there are many weak brothers and sisters who camp with the enemy.

It is easier for the weak to be convinced to do wrong when they are with the enemy than if they were in fellowship with those who would help them stand in the face of temptation.

The young and the middle aged and the elders are all supposed to work together to be of one mind and one judgment.

Philippians 1:27 Only let your conversation be as it becometh the gospel of Christ: that whether I come and see you, or else be absent, I may hear of your affairs, that ye stand fast in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel;

The youngest Christians are in the greatest danger when with the enemy. We have an example of the young converts from idolatry, in the city of Corinth, who were too weak to give up their old associations. Paul needed to teach them to not camp with the enemy, who would weaken their faithfulness to Christ.

2 Corinthians 6:14-17 Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness? 15 And what concord hath Christ with Belial? or what part hath he that believeth with an infidel? 16 And what agreement hath the temple of God with idols? for ye are the temple of the living God; as God hath said, I will dwell in them, and walk in [them]; and I will be their God, and they shall be my people. 17 Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean [thing]; and I will receive you,

Peter warmed himself at the fire of the enemy when the Lord was put on trial.

John 18:18 And the servants and officers stood there, who had made a fire of coals; for it was cold: and they warmed themselves: and Peter stood with them, and warmed himself.

If Peter had been somewhere else, he might have found no temptation to deny the Lord as he did.

We must examine where we stand.

We need to examine our associations we choose.

Jesus associated himself with the sinners of the world, but in doing so, He taught them the truth. He brought spiritual healing to those who were under bondage to sin. Jesus was strong enough to associate with the sinners, and was not corrupted by them.

Whose fire do you warm by? Do you choose to stand with the world while the truth is put on trial in your presence and say nothing to defend it?

Peter placed himself in that arena of temptation. No one made or forced him to go where he went.

We can avoid many temptations that we may be too spiritually weak to withstand. If we know that we are about to face a tempting situation, we can prepare by much prayer, by studying and meditating on God’s Word, and allowing the Holy Spirit to guide us, even at the cost of losing the friendship of the world.

1 Thessalonians 5:21-23 Prove all things; hold fast that which is good. 22 Abstain from all appearance of evil. 23 And the very God of peace sanctify you wholly; and [I pray God] your whole spirit and soul and body be preserved blameless unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Do you think that Peter would have denied Jesus if he had been standing by the fire with only the other disciples of Christ, and in prayer for Jesus?

1 Corinthians 15:33-34 Be not deceived: evil communications corrupt good manners. 34 Awake to righteousness, and sin not; for some have not the knowledge of God: I speak [this] to your shame.

While it is important that we surround ourselves with truth, and those of the same mind and spirit; it is especially important for the young and those who might be weak in the faith.

It appears that Peter’s denial was furthered by his choice of companions in those final hours.

VI. OPEN DENIAL—Finally, Peter denied that he knew Jesus.

John 18:25 And Simon Peter stood and warmed himself. They said therefore unto him, Art not thou also [one] of his disciples? He denied [it], and said, I am not.

Many folks today who have obeyed the gospel of Jesus Christ, and who have openly declared their faith, love, and loyalty to Jesus Christ are in many cases guilty of open denial of Jesus by the way they end up living their personal everyday lives.

Peter had declared his faith, but he denied Jesus.

A declaration of faith alone is not an assurance that a person will always stand strong in the face of temptation.

We must do the righteousness of Christ. We need to not only say the right things, but also do the works of righteousness.

Some are weak, and deny Christ everyday but Sunday for the time they at the church house with the other saints.

So too were some of those in the 1st Century AD:

Titus 1:15-16 Unto the pure all things [are] pure: but unto them that are defiled and unbelieving [is] nothing pure; but even their mind and conscience is defiled. 16 They profess that they know God; but in works they deny [him], being abominable, and disobedient, and unto every good work reprobate.

Just because you make a strong proclamation of your faith does not mean that you are a pure believer. The world should be able to tell whether you are a follower of Christ by your actions.

Most who proclaim to be Christians would loudly proclaim that they would never deny Jesus Christ.

If you are disobedient, you are denying Christ.

Every time you give in to the tempting of the world, you are denying Jesus his rightful place in your life to direct your steps.

Peter was one of the chosen to become an Apostle of Jesus Christ. He had been honoured with the deepest confidence and affections of the Lord. He shows us today that, even though we walk with Christ, there are great dangers that continue to face us everyday.

We can and should learn a lesson from Peter’s hour of temptation and his denial of Christ.

Regardless of all the reasons for Peter’s denial, our wisest fear, as a Christian, should be that of losing our precious relationship with our Lord Jesus Christ. We should always be aware of all that Christi has done for us, and the promise of glory to come in Christ.

2 Timothy 2:12 If we suffer, we shall also reign with [him]: if we deny [him], he also will deny us:

If we realize that every Christian faces the possibility of denying Jesus, let us realize that was salvation for Peter, after that he repented.

Peter repented and continued on as a great worker and Apostle of Jesus Christ.

Matthew 26:73-75 And after a while came unto [him] they that stood by, and said to Peter, Surely thou also art [one] of them; for thy speech bewrayeth thee. 74 Then began he to curse and to swear, [saying], I know not the man. And immediately the cock crew. 75 And Peter remembered the word of Jesus, which said unto him, Before the cock crow, thou shalt deny me thrice. And he went out, and wept bitterly.

Peter found repentance and the strength to overcome his fear of the Jewish religion and he shows us that we too can overcome.

As servants of our Lord, who came to bring healing to many, let us be diligent to share these teachings of grace and repentance to not only those outside of Christ, but also those who have been wounded in battle.

By studying the life of the Apostle Peter, we can see that we too can overcome our fears and weaknesses. Like Peter, we can repent and go on to grow stronger spiritually, even after a weakness of the flesh has caused us to fail; even after we have denied Christ in our works, and even after we have allowed our fear of men to cause us to momentarily deny our faith.

1Corinthians 15:58 Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye stedfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labour is not in vain in the Lord.

We serve a loving and a forgiving Lord, one who loves a repentant son or daughter.

Who will you choose to stand with today? What about the rest of the week? Today is the easy part, but once out among the world, we will be faced with some of the same temptations of Peter.

Living in the World, and Dealing With It

2007-09-29T12:06:00.001-04:00

LIVING In and DEALING WITH the WORLD
By: Joe McClure; Sermon #449; Text: I Cor. 2.14
Today, I want to try to help you to live as Christians in a world that does not have the same mind as the Christian is supposed to have.

We live in a world composed mostly of non-Christians. The unconverted sinner just does not understand the mind of Christ, and should really not be expected to understand, at least not in their current state of mind.

1 Corinthians 2:12 Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the spirit which is of God; that we might know the things that are freely given to us of God. 13 Which things also we speak, not in the words which man’s wisdom teacheth, but which the Holy Ghost teacheth; comparing spiritual things with spiritual.

14 But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned.

Have you ever tried to explain to someone who is not yet a Christian why you cannot do the things they do, and they look at you as if you belong in an insane asylum?

They laugh at us because they simply cannot understand those things which must be spiritually understood, from a study of God’s will through the Word of God.

The natural man considers our spiritual principles as foolish.

**As members of God’s family; as children in the Kingdom of Christ; as priests and kings; we face a dilemma of how to deal with those we interact with in the world, with those who are outside.

Every day you are in the presence of non-Christians, you are being forced to deal with the world, its temptations, its urges, its desires, its lust, its sexual influences, and all that the world is so proud of.

While we are constantly being tempted to violate the principles of God’s Word, wherever we are, Satan has his best chance at hurting us in the world.

1 Peter 5:8-10 Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour: 9 Whom resist stedfast in the faith, knowing that the same afflictions are accomplished in your brethren that are in the world. 10 But the God of all grace, who hath called us unto his eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after that ye have suffered a while, make you perfect, stablish, strengthen, settle [you].

The devil was a reality in the 1st century AD, just as he was present in the Garden of Eden, and we need to be aware that the devil is real today.

We cannot see God, nor Christ, nor the Holy Spirit.

We believe in them by our faith in the Holy Word of God.

2 Corinthians 4:18 While we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen: for the things which are seen [are] temporal; but the things which are not seen [are] eternal.

We may see the evidence of the devil in the world, just as we see God’s evidence; but we must not doubt the existence of the devil, just because we cannot see him.

He is real, and a danger to every soul on earth.

Ephesians 4:27 Neither give place to the devil.

Ephesians 6:11 Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.

James 4:7 Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.

These are just a few Scriptures that warn us of the devil, but we can see from them that he is real, and that the devil is our adversary in our Christian lives.

It is not my purpose to list today every sin that the devil would have us submit to do; but simply to try to help you understand how to deal with him.

The devil is opposite of God, and is promoting everything that is contrary to the righteousness of God, and we must resist the devil, who is seeking to destroy our faith.

If we have Christ fully expressed in our lives, we will be able to overcome the temptations of the devil.

The very purpose of the coming of our Saviour was and is to destroy the works of the devil.

1 John 3:7 Little children, let no man deceive you: he that does righteousness is righteous, even as he is righteous. 8 He that commits sin is of the devil; for the devil sins from the beginning. For this purpose the Son of God was manifested, that he might destroy the works of the devil.

When you go out into the world, and mix with your friends in the world; you will at times give in to the tempter.

As a Christian, then you will experience guilt for giving in to the devil. You will probably experience sadness, and then repentance.

I want you to always keep in mind that we have someone on our side, sitting on His throne in Heaven.

God understands that you will not always be successful in withstanding temptation.

1 John 1:8 ¶ If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. 1 John 1:9 If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.

However, it is not always necessary for us to fail.

I want to talk to you about winning a victory over the devil in real terms.

1Jo 5:4 For whatsoever is born of God overcometh the world: and this is the victory that overcometh the world, [even] our faith.

While we may simply say that we can win our victories due to our faith in Christ; we need to understand how this can become a reality for us in our everyday lives.

1 Corinthians 10:13 There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God [is] faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear [it].

As we can readily see, God understands the reality of the devil, the reality of our temptations in the world, the reality of our failures, and also that there is a way to escape the temptations.

From just these two passages of Scriptures, we can say that the way of escape can be found in our faith.

First of all, you must not be fooled into thinking that you will never fail Christ.

You must realize the truth of Satan, that he is just as present in our world as God.

In order to prepare to win the victory over the devil, when he comes into our daily lives, we must prepare to face any temptation which might come upon us.

God understands how easy it is to be tempted by sin.

Heb 12:1 Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset [us], and let us run with patience the race that is set before us,

To prepare for the temptations to sin, we must educate ourselves about our world, and the natural man.

Consider your particular environment.

Who are the people you regularly interact with? List in your mind your friends, your peers who you respect, and even family members who are non-Christians.

Are the people in your circle rooting for you to win out over sin?

Are they for you or against you?

We need to become aware of the fact that most of those within our circle of acquaintances are not Christians.

Jesus said:

Matthew 12:30 He that is not with me is against me; and he that gathereth not with me scattereth abroad.

There are some who are more actively involved in attacking the church of our Lord Jesus Christ than others; but the fact remains true that a person is either saved or lost; is either a Christian, or not; and is either for your success as a child or God, or against your victory, by faith in Christ.

Next, consider:

*Are you strong enough to relate to those, in your circle, who have rejected Christ in their lives?

Maybe you are not strong; and that may be as it should be at your state of spiritual growth.

The point is that we need to ask ourselves if we are ready to face those who are against the will and pleasure of Christ, our Lord.

Are you even aware of the dangers?

Do you realize that you are a warrior against everything which is contrary to God?

2 Corinthians 10:3-5 For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war after the flesh: 4 (For the weapons of our warfare [are] not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds;) 5 Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ;

If we can just realize what we face in the world, then we can begin to prepare ourselves to win the victory over the flesh.

Should we just form a commune of only Christians and stay away from all temptation from those in the world?

This is not the answer.

One of our purposes as Christians is to influence the world for Christ, and if we are not in the world, we have no chance of preaching Christ.

Notice the prayer of Jesus for His disciples:

John 17:15 I pray not that thou shouldest take them out of the world, but that thou shouldest keep them from the evil.

I earlier posed the question regarding your spiritual strength, and whether you think you are strong enough to withstand the temptations of your friends in the world.

*We all have our weaknesses, and these may vary per Christian.

We must be aware of what our weak points are, and what our strengths are.

1 Corinthians 10:12 Wherefore let him that thinketh he standeth take heed lest he fall.

Do you have any spiritual weaknesses when you are with the world?

*The devil would like for you to think that you have him under complete control.

Even in the day of the Apostles, and during which many had gifts from the Holy Spirit, they realized that Satan was against them.

2 Corinthians 2:10-11 To whom ye forgive any thing, I [forgive] also: for if I forgave any thing, to whom I forgave [it], for your sakes [forgave I it] in the person of Christ; 11 Lest Satan should get an advantage of us: for we are not ignorant of his devices.

The Apostles were not ignorant of the devices that Satan used against the church of Christ; and neither must we be ignorant.

If you are not aware of the various ways of the devil, and how the devil will attack us, then you will be off your guard; you will be deceived into going along with the crowd.

It is our calling to think before we act; to examine everything to think about whether we are being asked to do good, or something wrong.

Let’s talk about a real life example.

I hope that you are not in a peer group where this could happen; but according to my facts of our community, I know that it could.

If someone you know were to try to talk you into just trying cocaine, what would be your reaction? Of course, if Satan came at you in such an obvious way, you would be ready to reject such an idea quickly.

The problem is that Satan will attack us at the place where we are the most vulnerable, the weak places in our armor, so to speak.

In the OT, we have an example which might make this point. God sent a prophet to cry out against the king, who had sinned, and God had given a specific commandment to this prophet. You can read the entire story in I Kings 13, but we want just to note how this man of God was deceived. Notice:

1 Kings 13:9 For so was it charged me by the word of the LORD, saying, Eat no bread, nor drink water, nor turn again by the same way that thou camest.

There was another man, who had been a prophet as well in his life; who approached the prophet of God.

1 Kings 13:15-18 Then he said unto him, Come home with me, and eat bread. 16 And he said, I may not return with thee, nor go in with thee: neither will I eat bread nor drink water with thee in this place: 17 For it was said to me by the word of the LORD, Thou shalt eat no bread nor drink water there, nor turn again to go by the way that thou camest. 18 He said unto him, I [am] a prophet also as thou [art]; and an angel spake unto me by the word of the LORD, saying, Bring him back with thee into thine house, that he may eat bread and drink water. [But] he lied unto him.

What was the temptation?

Although the good prophet of God had fulfilled his mission in delivering God’s message to King Jeroboam; he apparently is tired, hungry, and thirsty.

These were all temptations of his flesh.

His enemy is a man claiming to have a new message from God, through an angel.

He was easily deceived, and gave in to the desire to eat and drink and rest up for the return journey to Judah.

1 Kings 13:19-24 So he went back with him, and did eat bread in his house, and drank water. 20 And it came to pass, as they sat at the table, that the word of the LORD came unto the prophet that brought him back: 21 And he cried unto the man of God that came from Judah, saying, Thus saith the LORD, Forasmuch as thou hast disobeyed the mouth of the LORD, and hast not kept the commandment which the LORD thy God commanded thee, 22 But camest back, and hast eaten bread and drunk water in the place, of the which [the LORD] did say to thee, Eat no bread, and drink no water; thy carcase shall not come unto the sepulchre of thy fathers. 23 And it came to pass, after he had eaten bread, and after he had drunk, that he saddled for him the ass, [to wit], for the prophet whom he had brought back. 24 And when he was gone, a lion met him by the way, and slew him: and his carcase was cast in the way, and the ass stood by it, the lion also stood by the carcase.

While our natural man is faced with many temptations that are easily rejected, our flesh is easily deceived into sinning, especially if it is something that we desire, deep down, to do anyway.

We live in a world, in which there are a multitude of various belief systems, which claim to be the true way of God. We have many friends in the world who claim to be religious, even to be Christians, but have not obeyed the truth.

These friends may do their best to deceive us into believing a lie; and they may do this with an honest heart themselves.

God gives us various lists of sins to avoid. Let’s notice one of these.

Ephesians 5:3 ¶ But fornication, and all uncleanness, or covetousness, let it not be once named among you, as becometh saints; 4 Neither filthiness, nor foolish talking, nor jesting, which are not convenient: but rather giving of thanks. 5 For this ye know, that no whoremonger, nor unclean person, nor covetous man, who is an idolater, hath any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God. 6 Let no man deceive you with vain words: for because of these things cometh the wrath of God upon the children of disobedience. 7 Be not ye therefore partakers with them. 8 For ye were sometimes darkness, but now are ye light in the Lord: walk as children of light:

Most of these may be easily avoided for the Christian, even those who are just starting in their upward growth.

Having sexual relations outside of the marriage bed is evil. I will not fool you young Christians into believing that you won’t face this temptation. You will face it, and if you are strong in the faith, you will be able to withstand Satan’s temptation. You will show your love to Christ in keeping your bodies pure until you are married.

I faced this temptation as a young man, and it was a strong urge of my flesh; but I was able to overcome it.

However, some of the other sins are of the type that is not a frontal attack like the sexual temptation.

Notice in particular Ephesians 5.4, which commands the Christian to not engage in using obscene language. I know, as a young man, that most of my friends in the world used obscene words in their talk; and to fit in the Christian is tempted to use similar vulgarities.

We are not to talk with words that are unseemly to a Christian. We are not to use our words to abuse others.

We are not to use foul speech that might be considered indelicate, or with sexual overtones to get a laugh from our audience.

Many of our friends in the world may, at times, be vulgar in their talk.

We are tempted to engage in similar speech, and if not, to at least laugh at their dirty jokes.

How can you avoid the temptation to be one of the crowd?

The key is to have a mind that is thinking on good thoughts, and on how you might find an opportunity to share the gospel with these friends. If you are thinking on good thoughts, you will find that the temptations to use speech that is offensive to God easier to overcome.

Think: What is God thinking about this situation?

Does God approve of such speech?

Those who are worldly in their thinking and speech expect the same thing out of you.

When I went away to college, I found myself surrounded by many who seemed to have no other thoughts but vulgar sexual thoughts. They expected the same of me, and the temptation was there to deal with.

The key is to be aware of your environment, and the character of your peers, and go prepared. If you have just left your home, where you prayed to God to help you, and had just finished reading your Bible passages; then you will be more likely to be repulsed by filthy, foolish talking; and will find it easier to withstand the temptations.

It may not have happened to you yet; but it is certainly likely that at some point in your life; your friends will talk you into acting against your better impulses.

Hebrews 12:1 ¶ Why seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which does so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us, 2 Looking to Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God. 3 For consider him that endured such contradiction of sinners against himself, lest you be wearied and faint in your minds.

The battle is in your mind. If your mind is prepared, you can withstand any temptation.

Satan is going to tempt you to not prepare. When you think to yourself that you need to study your Bible tomorrow, the devil is going to tempt you.

The devil will offer you something to take up that time you thought to allocate to prayer and study.

Satan will put before you the idea that you need to rest, to relax, to play, to watch TV, or anything but studying God’s Word.

Consider that there is nothing sinful in relaxing. Even our Lord rested on the 7th day. So, it is easy to convince ourselves that we are doing nothing wrong in choosing relaxation over Bible reading and prayers.

Romans 14:16 Let not then your good be evil spoken of: 17 For the kingdom of God is not meat and drink; but righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost.

What we must do is to set our priorities. If God, during the creation of all things, had rested all of the 7 days, there would be no creation.

If the Apostles had engaged in sightseeing in Jerusalem, instead of engaging in prayer and waiting on the Holy Spirit on the Day of Pentecost, there would have been a different result in Acts 2, when the church was established.

There is a time and a place for most everything.

Ecclesiastes 3:1 ¶ To every [thing there is] a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven:

Ecclesiastes 3:17 I said in mine heart, God shall judge the righteous and the wicked: for [there is] a time there for every purpose and for every work.

Before you can hope to withstand the temptations of the devil while existing in a world of sin; we must build up our faith.

Sure, you can expect at times to fail, and to give in to various temptations. This is part of growing in your faith in Christ.

Even the Apostle Paul stated that he had experienced sin in his life.

Romans 3:23 For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God;

Romans 7:7 ¶ What shall we say then? [Is] the law sin? God forbid. Nay, I had not known sin, but by the law: for I had not known lust, except the law had said, Thou shalt not covet. 8 But sin, taking occasion by the commandment, wrought in me all manner of concupiscence. For without the law sin was dead.

Romans 7:18 For I know that in me (that is, in my flesh,) dwelleth no good thing: for to will is present with me; but [how] to perform that which is good I find not. 19 For the good that I would I do not: but the evil which I would not, that I do. 20 Now if I do that I would not, it is no more I that do it, but sin that dwelleth in me. 21 I find then a law, that, when I would do good, evil is present with me. 22 For I delight in the law of God after the inward man: 23 But I see another law in my members, warring against the law of my mind, and bringing me into captivity to the law of sin which is in my members. 24 O wretched man that I am! who shall deliver me from the body of this death? 25 I thank God through Jesus Christ our Lord. So then with the mind I myself serve the law of God; but with the flesh the law of sin.

God recognizes the struggle that goes on between the desires of our flesh, and the commandments of God.

God recognizes the process of growing stronger as we learn to resist temptations, and as we increase in our faith.

We see this in Paul’s letter to the church of Christ at Thessalonica. He prayed that he might be able to go there to help them increase in their faith.

1 Thessalonians 3:10 Night and day praying exceedingly that we might see your face, and might perfect that which is lacking in your faith?

1 Thessalonians 3:12 And the Lord make you to increase and abound in love one toward another, and toward all men, even as we do toward you: 13 To the end he may establish your hearts blameless in holiness before God, even our Father, at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ with all his saints.

We too hopefully are on the upward path, growing and increasing in our own holiness before God.

You and I both have things lacking in our faith.

We must be aware of our weak places, because these are those where the devil will attack us.

**We must have vision of where we have come from, where we are currently, and where we hope to go.

Paul reminded the saints at Corinth of their past, and how that they had been made righteous by their obedience.

1 Corinthians 6:9-11 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, 10 Nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners, shall inherit the kingdom of God. 11 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.

God calls us to live a Holy life.

1 Thessalonians 4:7 For God has not called us to uncleanness, but to holiness.

We must study the Bible to find God’s definition of what ‘holiness’ entails.

Our growth in Christ happens in the world, not just on Sunday, in church. As human beings in the flesh, we are actively learning and getting prepared to do the work of the Lord.

Christians are imperfect beings, but steadily becoming more pleasing to Christ as we continue forward in our lives.

2 Timothy 2:21-26 If a man therefore purge himself from these, he shall be a vessel unto honour, sanctified, and meet for the master's use, [and] prepared unto every good work. 22 Flee also youthful lusts: but follow righteousness, faith, charity, peace, with them that call on the Lord out of a pure heart. 23 But foolish and unlearned questions avoid, knowing that they do gender strifes. 24 And the servant of the Lord must not strive; but be gentle unto all [men], apt to teach, patient, 25 In meekness instructing those that oppose themselves; if God peradventure will give them repentance to the acknowledging of the truth; 26 And [that] they may recover themselves out of the snare of the devil, who are taken captive by him at his will.

Finally, I want to read a comparison that is made in the Scriptures of the Christian as a spiritual warrior, or soldier for Christ.

Ephesians 6:10 ¶ Finally, my brothers, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might. 11 Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. 12 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. 13 Why take to you the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. 14 Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness; 15 And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace; 16 Above all, taking the shield of faith, with which you shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked. 17 And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God: 18 Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints;

I am not going to go into great detail of all that this means, but I urge you to make this a part of your Bible study.

God has promised us the power to withstand the temptations that come upon us.

1 Corinthians 10:12-14 Wherefore let him that thinketh he standeth take heed lest he fall. 13 There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God [is] faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear [it]. 14 Wherefore, my dearly beloved, flee from idolatry.

There are times when we must run away from situations in which we know that we are going to be tempted beyond our current ability to withstand them.

But the way of escape is to have our minds prepared, and our battle armor always on.

Be aware of the enemy.

Study God’s Word, to know what the truth of God teaches.

Know that you are saved. Realize your weaknesses which have been revealed to you by the Word of God, and work to increase in your righteousness.

Know the gospel, that you might one day fulfill the call to teach others who are headed to eternal destruction, that they too might be justified in the eyes of God, and be saved.

Life is full of pitfalls that await us all, but we can face them with hope, knowing that the Holy Spirit lives within, and that we are never away from the ear of our Saviour and God in Heaven.

I have only touched on this subject, but my hope was to at least give you some basic thoughts, and encourage each one of you to continue to stand with Christ, and to know His grace in your life and continue to grow in your knowledge of the Bible.

Conscience--Should It Be Followed?

2007-09-29T12:04:00.001-04:00

SHOULD YOU FOLLOW YOUR OWN CONSCIENCE?
SERMON #440; by Joe McClure; date: 7/30/06; Text: Romans 13.1-14; I Corinthians 8.1-13; Titus 1.10-16

Frye has requested that I preach a sermon that deals with how much we should trust our own consciences.

Should you ever do anything, which contradicts what you believe to be the right way?

Of course not, but can all people be saved by following their own conscience?

The idea, which I hope to explain, is that what you think to be right may not be right.

You may make a moral decision, honestly believing that you are doing the right thing, and be completely evil in your choice.

The word ‘conscience’ is defined as:

One’s moral consciousness

To consider that which one understands

That which convicts our actions as being right or wrong

There is a way that seemeth right to a man……

As I began to consider this subject for this sermon, I was actually surprised at the number of places in which the word is actually found; over 25 times in the New Testament.

The first time that the word ‘conscience’ is found in the NT Scriptures is found in the account of Jesus being tempted by the Jews to condemn the woman taken in the very act of adultery.

The setting is the temple, and the men were scribes and Pharisees; men who knew the Law of Moses, and who were trying to find some cause of condemning Jesus.

These men knew the penalty for adultery was for both the man and woman caught in the act of adultery, but they only brought the woman to be condemned.

As I read this passage of Scriptures, I want you to notice that since they caught her in the very act of committing adultery, they would have caught both the man and the woman together.

John 8:3-11-- And the scribes and Pharisees brought unto him a woman taken in adultery; and when they had set her in the midst, [4] They say unto him, Master, this woman was taken in adultery, in the very act. [5] Now Moses in the law commanded us, that such should be stoned: but what sayest thou? [6] This they said, tempting him, that they might have to accuse him. But Jesus stooped down, and with his finger wrote on the ground, as though he heard them not. [7] So when they continued asking him, he lifted up himself, and said unto them, He that is without sin among you, let him first cast a stone at her. [8] And again he stooped down, and wrote on the ground.

Notice in verse 6 what their purpose was, that is, to tempt Jesus. If they could get Jesus to condemn the woman whom they caught in the act of adultery, they could go and tell others that Jesus had blasphemed the Law of Moses. Under the Law, only those who sat in the place of the judges could condemn, and then only with 2, or 3 eyewitnesses.

[9] And they which heard it, being convicted by their own conscience, went out one by one, beginning at the eldest, even unto the last: and Jesus was left alone, and the woman standing in the midst. [10] When Jesus had lifted up himself, and saw none but the woman, he said unto her, Woman, where are those thine accusers? hath no man condemned thee? [11] She said, No man, Lord. And Jesus said unto her, Neither do I condemn thee: go, and sin no more.

The so-called witnesses were convicted in their hearts, knowing that they were in violation of God’s law concerning this matter.

In this case, their consciences were educated to know the truth, and that knowledge convicted them of the wrong they were doing.

However, we must consider that they were already aware of the writing of the Mosaic Law before they ever came with the woman caught in adultery.

Next, we look at the conscience of Paul, the Apostle.

Without going in to the entire defense of Paul, when he stood before Governor Felix, I want to note something important about a portion of Paul’s statement.

Acts 24:16

And herein do I exercise myself, to have always a conscience void of offence toward God, and toward men.

Saints today should strive to follow this same pattern.

Paul also used the word ‘conscience’ as a way of testifying to the truth which he personally believed as being the same truth which was imparted to him by the Holy Spirit.

Romans 9:1-5

I say the truth in Christ, I lie not, my conscience also bearing me witness in the Holy Ghost, [2] That I have great heaviness and continual sorrow in my heart. [3] For I could wish that myself were accursed from Christ for my brethren, my kinsmen according to the flesh: [4] Who are Israelites; to whom pertaineth the adoption, and the glory, and the covenants, and the giving of the law, and the service of God, and the promises; [5] Whose are the fathers, and of whom as concerning the flesh Christ came, who is over all, God blessed for ever. Amen.

Paul’s yearning for the salvation of the Jews was also a goal of Christ, and thus of the Holy Spirit.

We might learn from this that our own personal views, whatever they might be, should never stand opposed to the Holy Scriptures.

We should ask ourselves whether our views, our words, and consequently our actions, or entire way of life is approved by the text which is divinely inspired. If so, then we can say that our consciences are without offence to God.

Turn to Romans 13.

The Law of Christ, which is found in the New Testament, will educate our consciences, so that we can be without offence before God. However, an uneducated, and untaught conscience is not to be trusted as a good guide.

Until you are sure that you can trust your conscience, always study with prayer the Word of truth.

Romans 13:1-14

Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers. For there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God. [2] Whosoever therefore resisteth the power, resisteth the ordinance of God: and they that resist shall receive to themselves damnation. [3] For rulers are not a terror to good works, but to the evil. Wilt thou then not be afraid of the power? do that which is good, and thou shalt have praise of the same: [4] For he is the minister of God to thee for good. But if thou do that which is evil, be afraid; for he beareth not the sword in vain: for he is the minister of God, a revenger to execute wrath upon him that doeth evil. [5] Wherefore ye must needs be subject, not only for wrath, but also for conscience sake. [6] For for this cause pay ye tribute also: for they are God's ministers, attending continually upon this very thing. [7] Render therefore to all their dues: tribute to whom tribute is due; custom to whom custom; fear to whom fear; honour to whom honour. [8] Owe no man any thing, but to love one another: for he that loveth another hath fulfilled the law. [9] 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. [10] Love worketh no ill to his neighbour: therefore love is the fulfilling of the law. [11] And that, knowing the time, that now it is high time to awake out of sleep: for now is our salvation nearer than when we believed. [12] The night is far spent, the day is at hand: let us therefore cast off the works of darkness, and let us put on the armour of light. [13] Let us walk honestly, as in the day; not in rioting and drunkenness, not in chambering and wantonness, not in strife and envying. [14] But put ye on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make not provision for the flesh, to fulfil the lusts thereof.

Be Subject to Higher Powers

Do that which is Good

Pay taxes to whom due

Pay custom to whom due (indirect taxes)

Give fear to whom due

Give respect or honor to whom due

Owe no man any thing (pay your debts when they come due, on time, as agreed)

Love one another

Do not commit adultery, and you won’t if you love as you should

Do not kill, and you won’t if you truly love

Do not steal, and you won’t if you truly love

Do not bear false witness, or testify to a lie; and you won’t if you truly love

Do not lust after that which others have

Do no evil to your neighbor

Be watchful over your soul

Put on the armor of light, putting off works of darkness

Do not spend your life in pleasure seeking and in drinking

Avoid bad companions

Avoid unclean activities

Do not fight

In other words, when we put on Jesus Christ, we will stop making plans and spending our time and money in doing that which the flesh desires in opposition to that which is righteous.

With such commandments, as we find in Romans 13.1-14, in residence within our minds, we will naturally do those things which are approved by our Lord Jesus because we love God, and thus keep His commandments. We will obey our Lord, not just because we fear the wrath to come, but also because we have been educated to live right.

Next, I want you to turn to I Corinthians 8th chapter.

There we will see the comparison made between a mature, good conscience and the weak conscience.

In this passage, we see that a conscience may be weak when the Christian is ignorant, or unlearned concerning the will of Christ.

The topic has to do with eating meat, which had been offered in idol worship.

1 Cor. 8:1-13

Now as touching things offered unto idols, we know that we all have knowledge. Knowledge puffeth up, but charity edifieth. [2] And if any man think that he knoweth any thing, he knoweth nothing yet as he ought to know. [3] But if any man love God, the same is known of him. [4] As concerning therefore the eating of those things that are offered in sacrifice unto idols, we know that an idol is nothing in the world, and that there is none other God but one. [5] For though there be that are called gods, whether in heaven or in earth, (as there be gods many, and lords many,) [6] But to us there is but one God, the Father, of whom are all things, and we in him; and one Lord Jesus Christ, by whom are all things, and we by him. [7] Howbeit there is not in every man that knowledge: for some with conscience of the idol unto this hour eat it as a thing offered unto an idol; and their conscience being weak is defiled. [8] But meat commendeth us not to God: for neither, if we eat, are we the better; neither, if we eat not, are we the worse. [9] But take heed lest by any means this liberty of yours become a stumblingblock to them that are weak. [10] For if any man see thee which hast knowledge sit at meat in the idol's temple, shall not the conscience of him which is weak be emboldened to eat those things which are offered to idols; [11] And through thy knowledge shall the weak brother perish, for whom Christ died? [12] But when ye sin so against the brethren, and wound their weak conscience, ye sin against Christ. [13] Wherefore, if meat make my brother to offend, I will eat no flesh while the world standeth, lest I make my brother to offend.

In this passage of Scriptures, many may just read over them because we do not know anyone who offers animal sacrifices to false idol-gods.

While we may not know of anyone who does this in our communities, there are many in our world who still do such sacrifices, but that is not the point that I want you to notice.

Instead, I want us to see the lesson regarding the weak consciences of others.

Paul said that the more spiritually mature brethren have knowledge. In other words, they knew that there is but one true God, and that the meat offered to the idols would be just as good to eat as if they had butchered one of their own animals to eat.

The lesson is that some may not yet understand that some things are acceptable to do, which you know that you have the liberty to do.

The point is that you may be a good student of the Scriptures and know and understand all the liberties which we have been afforded in Christ, while others may be offended when they see you taking those liberties.

If you are none the worse for foregoing the liberty in the presence of the brother with the weak conscience, then you are commanded, for Christ sakes to not harm the weak conscience of your brother.

We see that in the 10th chapter some more is said about eating meat offered to idols.

1 Cor. 10:27-29

If any of them that believe not bid you to a feast, and ye be disposed to go; whatsoever is set before you, eat, asking no question for conscience sake. [28] But if any man say unto you, This is offered in sacrifice unto idols, eat not for his sake that shewed it, and for conscience sake: for the earth is the Lord's, and the fulness thereof: [29] Conscience, I say, not thine own, but of the other: for why is my liberty judged of another man's conscience?

Paul asks a very important question here. If I have a liberty, why is my liberty not allowed then for the sake of the other man’s conscience?

In the following verses, Paul answers his own question.

1 Cor. 10:30-33

For if I by grace be a partaker, why am I evil spoken of for that for which I give thanks? [31] Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God. [32] Give none offence, neither to the Jews, nor to the Gentiles, nor to the church of God: [33] Even as I please all men in all things, not seeking mine own profit, but the profit of many, that they may be saved.

The rule that guides us in such matters is to not offend and cause harm to the church, and to seek the other man’s salvation.

As we can see from these passages, not every man has the same conscience. Some Christians believe one thing, and other Christians might believe another; due to each man’s knowledge and understanding of the will of Christ as portrayed in the Scriptures.

The Apostle Paul knew without any doubt all things through the Holy Spirit, but you and I depend upon those truths which are revealed in the written Word; so it won’t be as easy for any of us to understand these things. You and I can see why that it is so important for us to study together, so that we can be of one mind and one judgment.

Some of our brethren fervently defend what they in all honesty believe to be the truth. Even if they are in wrong about the intended message from Christ, their conscience is being led by their ignorance and misunderstanding.

The Apostle Paul, before he became a Christian, did and believed those things which he in all honesty thought to be the will of God, when he persecuted the church of Christ.

When the Apostle Paul stood before King Agrippa, he pointed out to him that he had at one time been a devout Pharisee, a sect of the Jews, and had persecuted Christians.

Acts 26. 9.11>>9 I verily thought with myself, that I ought to do many things contrary to the name of Jesus of Nazareth. 10 Which thing I also did in Jerusalem: and many of the saints did I shut up in prison, having received authority from the chief priests; and when they were put to death, I gave my voice against them. 11 And I punished them oft in every synagogue, and compelled them to blaspheme; and being exceedingly mad against them, I persecuted them even unto strange cities.

Paul thought that he was doing God’s will, and his conscience during those events was clear, without doubt.

Those who killed the apostles also thought they were doing the will of God.

John 16:2 They shall put you out of the synagogues: yea, the time cometh, that whosoever killeth you will think that he doeth God service.

Just because these men listened to their consciences did not make them justified in God’s eyes, and did not free them from being condemned for the murder they committed.

Today, on the world scene, we have many in various wars who honestly believe that they are doing the right thing in killing their enemies, honestly believing that they are doing God’s will in many cases.

The Muslims believe that their Koran teaches them to kill all outside invading forces who intrude upon their homeland.

Does the fact that their conscience is clear when they cut off someone’s head make it right.

We can see that they are wrong in following their own consciences.

On the other side of the battle, those who believe that they are doing the will of Christ in killing the Muslims are also being led by consciences, which are misinformed as to the will of Christ.

The only consciousness which you and I should trust, is the knowledge given to us by the Holy Spirit.

1 Tim. 1:19

Holding faith, and a good conscience; which some having put away concerning faith have made shipwreck:

Those who are not matured spiritually in the faith, and proclaim to be Christians, are those with weak consciences.

However, some have totally put away from their minds the calling of the gospel of Christ, and such men have bad consciences, which cannot be trusted.

1 Tim. 4:1-2

Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils; [2] Speaking lies in hypocrisy; having their conscience seared with a hot iron;

The educated, good conscience will bleed at first when we go against what the person knows to be right.

After a while, when that person can sin and not have his conscience bothered within his soul, at that point in time, it can be said that he has departed from the faith, and has his conscience seared, in a figure, like a person having a wound cauterized.

A former faithful saint can now lie, and teach false doctrines, and do all manner of sins against Christ, once that he stops the bleeding of his soul.

What we are considering now is the BAD conscience, who does not believe the teachings of Christ.

We see this contrast in our next passage of Scriptures, in Titus 1.

Titus 1:15-16

Unto the pure all things are pure: but unto them that are defiled and unbelieving is nothing pure; but even their mind and conscience is defiled. [16] They profess that they know God; but in works they deny him, being abominable, and disobedient, and unto every good work reprobate.

What did Paul tell Titus?

Paul is writing here about the DEFILED conscience. It does not believe, even though that person may declare that he knows God.

Yes, he may say that he is Godly, but look at his life. He is destestable by those who know the truth. He is disobedient to the truth. He makes bad judgments in his life.

Looking at more of the context of the above passage, we can see that Paul is speaking about false teachers in the church of Christ.

Titus 1:10-14

For there are many unruly and vain talkers and deceivers, specially they of the circumcision: [11] Whose mouths must be stopped, who subvert whole houses, teaching things which they ought not, for filthy lucre's sake. [12] One of themselves, even a prophet of their own, said, The Cretians are alway liars, evil beasts, slow bellies. [13] This witness is true. Wherefore rebuke them sharply, that they may be sound in the faith; [14] Not giving heed to Jewish fables, and commandments of men, that turn from the truth.

Unfortunately, we have a similar situation today, in which entire congregations have been completely separated from the truth of the gospel.

Such men who have defiled consciences, have refused to submit to the rule of the Law of Christ.

Paul says that such must be rebuked sharply. Even though they have allowed themselves to have their consciences defiled, they may yet repent and come back to the truth.

Those who have never obeyed the gospel of Christ, and are following after their own set of rules, or some other religion, are named by the Scriptures as having an ‘EVIL CONSCIENCE’.

Hebrews 10:22-27-- Let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience, and our bodies washed with pure water. [23] Let us hold fast the profession of our faith without wavering; (for he is faithful that promised;) [24] And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works: [25] Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching. [26] For if we sin wilfully after that we have received the knowledge of the truth, there remaineth no more sacrifice for sins, [27] But a certain fearful looking for of judgment and fiery indignation, which shall devour the adversaries.

After becoming a Christian, and receiving the knowledge of the truth, you left behind your evil conscience, and now have a pure conscience, if you are faithful to that which you have learned of Christ.

Even our initial obedience to Christ came about because of truthful knowledge imparted to our minds, which moved us to believe in Christ, and to confess Christ, and to repent and be baptized into Christ.

1 Peter 3:21

The like figure whereunto even baptism doth also now save us (not the putting away of the filth of the flesh, but the answer of a good conscience toward God,) by the resurrection of Jesus Christ:

Looking at the many denominations in our country, it may appear on the surface that there are millions of people who are good, conscientious folks. The problem with such a view is that they have not answered out of a good conscience toward God. They were not provided with the God’s proper instructions regarding salvation. Instead, their conscious mind listened to men’s false instructions and did that which they honestly thought to be the will of God.

Just like the Apostle Paul, they will not be saved until they wash away their sins by obeying the gospel of Christ, as first preached on the Day of Pentecost.

A couple of more points, and we will be finished with this sermon.

When a person has committed himself to the covenant with Christ, and is faithful in following His leadership through life, there is one thing that is sure to happen to us all, if we live long enough.

You are sure to suffer grief on behalf of your Lord, if you choose to fight against Satan, and his teachers.

1 Peter 2:19-21

For this is thankworthy, if a man for conscience toward God endure grief, suffering wrongfully. [20] For what glory is it, if, when ye be buffeted for your faults, ye shall take it patiently? but if, when ye do well, and suffer for it, ye take it patiently, this is acceptable with God. [21] For even hereunto were ye called: because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that ye should follow his steps:

Christ left us an example in His suffering for the right way. We should glorify God when we are counted worthy to suffer for Christ.

This fact is a part of our pure conscience, in that studying such Scriptures, we shall be prepared when we face the day of suffering, and will not fall from His grace.

We should not only be able to repeat what we hear the preacher and the older brethren say; but we are called by Christ to know the Word itself. We are called by the gospel to study the Word and to examine ourselves by that Word, and then get prepared to defend the faith of the gospel of Jesus Christ.

1 Peter 3:15-18

But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear: [16] Having a good conscience; that, whereas they speak evil of you, as of evildoers, they may be ashamed that falsely accuse your good conversation in Christ. [17] For it is better, if the will of God be so, that ye suffer for well doing, than for evil doing. [18] 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:

Do you have a good conversation in Christ? Are the things you say to others approved by your Lord, or just by your human conscience?

A GOOD conscience is one, which is so educated by the Scriptures that it can defend the faith.

Brothers and sisters, the Scriptures teach us to prove all things. Daily we should answer God’s call by doing only those things commanded in the Law of Christ, and only then can we have assurance in Christ for our salvation.

Being excited about what we believe is not enough either, unless we are zealous toward Christ.

Finally, we need to pray for one another, and for all, that they and we might have a good conscience, without offence toward God, and work to that end.

Public Confession-When Should I Make?

2007-09-29T11:33:00.000-04:00

WHEN TO MAKE A PUBLIC CONFESSION
Sermon #435; by Joe McClure; Texts: James 5; I John 1; I John 3; I John 5; II Corinthians 2

Recently, sister Kelly asked that I preach on the issue of confessing sins.

Can we prove by the Scriptures that there are some times when a repentant Christian should notify the congregation that he/she has done wrong, has repented, and wants the church to pray on their behalf?

Can we prove that the Scriptures teach that sometimes we should not make a public confession, but instead that the repentant Christian should only pray to God, asking for forgiveness of sins?

One fact that we must admit up front is that sin, or trespasses, against the will of our Lord Jesus is an imminent danger for all.

Furthermore, we should also concede that we must always be on our guard against sin in our life.

Hebrews 12:1-2 Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset [us], and let us run with patience the race that is set before us, 2 Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of [our] faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.

First, we should understand that, if we have a question regarding the faith, the Holy Spirit has made us a promise.

2 Peter 1:2-4 Grace and peace be multiplied unto you through the knowledge of God, and of Jesus our Lord, 3 According as his divine power hath given unto us all things that [pertain] unto life and godliness, through the knowledge of him that hath called us to glory and virtue: 4 Whereby are given unto us exceeding great and precious promises: that by these ye might be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust.

Just as Peter and the other apostles had been given all things that related to life and Godliness, we also have been told that those same things have been written down, so that we also can know.

2 Timothy 3:16-17 All scripture [is] given by inspiration of God, and [is] profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: 17 That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.

With these promises before us, the main obstacle that we face in knowing God’s divine will relates to our own inabilities in learning and in understanding what those instructions are; thus the reason for the command to study to be approved unto Christ.

As we study this topic today, keep in mind that generally, that, to CONFESS indicates that we ACKNOWLEDGE something.

When we first come to Christ, and confess that Jesus is the Son of God, we acknowledge to those present our belief.

When we confess a sin, we acknowledge or take ownership of that sin.

Turn to our first proof text regarding confession of sins in James 5th chapter.

As we read these verses, I want you to keep in mind that the time of miracles has now been fulfilled (I Cor. 13.8-10).

At the time that James wrote this book, men still were able to heal the sick by miraculous ability.

James 5:14-15 Is any sick among you? let him call for the elders of the church; and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord: 15 And the prayer of faith shall save the sick, and the Lord shall raise him up; and if he have committed sins, they shall be forgiven him.

It seems obvious to me that the miraculous is referred to in these two verses.

Not only would the sickness be healed, but in the healing, the man’s sins would also be forgiven.

As we notice in Verse 16, it appears that the forgiveness of sins is conditional upon confessing one’s sins.

James 5. 16 Confess [your] faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much.

In this situation, who was to do the praying?

My first reaction to this question is that the righteous man is doing the praying.

However, at second glance, it appears that even those with FAULTS can pray and be considered as RIGHTEOUS.

One truth that we can be sure of is that the RIGHTEOUS man is a man that is approved of, by God.

Can you find a PERFECT man to pray on your behalf, he who has committed no sins, himself?
Also, pay close attention to the phrase ‘one for another’.

Rather than praying for oneself, the one Christian was to confess his sins to the other brother, and then have that brother pray on his behalf.

Taken in its entire context, it appears to me that the confession of the sins must be as public as the sin confessed.

If we have been guilty of a sin that is known by many, we should ask the many to pray for us, that is, after that we have repented, and shown our repentance by our change.

This said, I must add that there is no example, or direct command here in James 5.16, that would allow us to teach that one must stand up front and make a public confession of his sins to the entire congregation, although this passage of Scriptures would confirm that there would certainly be no offense in doing so.

Sin stands between you and God.

The Bible teaches us that God is light, and in God exists no darkness at all.

The Holy Spirit teaches us that we are made pure by obeying the truth and by loving our brethren.

1 Peter 1:22-23 Seeing ye have purified your souls in obeying the truth through the Spirit unto unfeigned love of the brethren, [see that ye] love one another with a pure heart fervently: 23 Being born again, not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, by the word of God, which liveth and abideth for ever.

In order that God can answer our prayers and regard us kindly, we are forbidden to be evil.

We must be righteous if we hope to have God hear our prayers.

1 Peter 3:10-12 For he that will love life, and see good days, let him refrain his tongue from evil, and his lips that they speak no guile: 11 Let him eschew evil, and do good; let him seek peace, and ensue it. 12 For the eyes of the Lord [are] over the righteous, and his ears [are open] unto their prayers: but the face of the Lord [is] against them that do evil.

Whether we know where this line is or not, there is a line that we cross, figuratively, that causes us to no longer gain the ear of God when we pray.

Some have done evil and can no longer reach the Heavenly Father in prayer.

This may not be you, but it is obvious from I Peter 3.12 that there are some who cannot pray to God and expect God to forgive them, simply due to the fact that his ears are NOT open to their prayers.

What I hope to prove eventually is that there in such occasions as Peter describes that the repentant brother must have the prayers of the saints in order to be restored to the faith of our Lord Jesus Christ.

In I John 3, we are given some more information regarding this topic, if you will turn over there with me.

1 John 3:18-24 My little children, let us not love in word, neither in tongue; but in deed and in truth. 19 And hereby we know that we are of the truth, and shall assure our hearts before him. 20 For if our heart condemn us, God is greater than our heart, and knoweth all things. 21 Beloved, if our heart condemn us not, [then] have we confidence toward God. 22 And whatsoever we ask, we receive of him, because we keep his commandments, and do those things that are pleasing in his sight. 23 And this is his commandment, That we should believe on the name of his Son Jesus Christ, and love one another, as he gave us commandment. 24 And he that keepeth his commandments dwelleth in him, and he in him. And hereby we know that he abideth in us, by the Spirit which he hath given us.

The Scriptures will reveal to us what is pleasing in His sight.

We are told what is pleasing to the Lord that we pray for, and if we love in deed and according to truth, we can be confident that God hears our prayers.

I John 3.22 especially confirms what James stated about the effectual fervent prayers of the righteous man, in that God hears our prayers if we have kept his commandments, and love the brethren.

We can begin then to see the importance of being right in God’s eyes when we pray; and also the importance of having those who are righteous praying on our behalf.

We can also see the importance of confessing our faults to another Christian brother or sister.

There is no teaching here that says that we must confess our faults to a particular person, other than ‘one to another’, and that it is important the one praying should be right with God.

No Christian, regardless of how righteous he is, has any power to pardon sins, but simply that he has the ear of God.

While James 5.16 deals with faithful Christians who need the prayers of their fellow saints, I want to now move on to the type of sin that requires the prayers of the saints.

Those who have separated themselves from their fellowship with God, and then repented of their sins, need the prayers of the righteous.

1 John 5:13-17 These things have I written unto you that believe on the name of the Son of God; that ye may know that ye have eternal life, and that ye may believe on the name of the Son of God. 14 And this is the confidence that we have in him, that, if we ask any thing according to his will, he heareth us: 15 And if we know that he hear us, whatsoever we ask, we know that we have the petitions that we desired of him.
16 If any man see his brother sin a sin [which is] not unto death, he shall ask, and he shall give him life for them that sin not unto death. There is a sin unto death: I do not say that he shall pray for it. 17 All unrighteousness is sin: and there is a sin not unto death.

There is an important clue in this passage.

Notice especially the words that say, ‘If any man SEE his brother sin’ (I John 5.16), thus pointing out to us that this is a public and visible sin, at least to one other brother.

Turn now in your Testament to the 1st Chapter of I John.

There you can see the results of praying faithfully for forgiveness of sins.

1 John 1:3-10 That which we have seen and heard declare we unto you, that ye also may have fellowship with us: and truly our fellowship [is] with the Father, and with his Son Jesus Christ. 4 And these things write we unto you, that your joy may be full. 5 This then is the message which we have heard of him, and declare unto you, that God is light, and in him is no darkness at all. 6 If we say that we have fellowship with him, and walk in darkness, we lie, and do not the truth: 7 But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin. 8 If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. 9 If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us [our] sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. 10 If we say that we have not sinned, we make him a liar, and his word is not in us.

Every child of God should have the greatest desire to maintain a close relationship with the Father and with Christ, his Son.

If you are absolutely sure that you are walking in the light, then you should be confident that you have the ear of your Heavenly Father when you pray, and that you will have your soul cleansed from sin when you repent and confess your sins.

There is no evidence that I John 1.9 refers to a public confession of sins for the Christian who walks in the light, one who is in fellowship with God.

A point that you might think about is that with any system of absolute laws, no one is capable of always giving 100% compliance.
Sometimes we just don’t understand what is required of us. Sometimes we overlook something that the law requires. Many times we sin without guile, without any intention to displease God.
Walking in the light forgiveness of sins is like that to some extent.

Others know the law, are totally aware of the law at the time, and refuse to obey it, with forethought.

Such a person decides to reject the rule of law, and in our society, if the offense is great enough, the offender will be taken out of society, and put into jail.

The corresponding parallel might be seen in the Christian who one day decides that he is no longer going to submit to the laws of Christ; and for such an offense, that person is removed from the light, and is removed from fellowship with God, and with the church.

Now, once again, I want to refer you to the text of James 5, looking at verses 19 and 20.
As we read these verses, it might make us stop and think that no one lives in a vacuum, but some parts of our life are more visible than others. In the situation of James 5.19, the brethren were aware of the person’s sins.

James 5.19-20>> 19 Brethren, if any of you do err from the truth, and one convert him; 20 Let him know, that he which converteth the sinner from the error of his way shall save a soul from death, and shall hide a multitude of sins.

I find it very interesting that the Holy Spirit chose the word ‘convert’ here.

James 5.19-20 must refer to the Christian who has fallen from grace, and has separated himself from the faith of Jesus Christ. He needs to be converted, and restored to the faith.

Notice that the person in question errs FROM the truth.

Note that in V20 that once away from the truth, he needs someone to convert him back to the right way.

Note that he is called a SINNER.

Also notice that the possible result is that he might SAVE A SOUL FROM DEATH.

From these words, we can deduce that the one referred to is spiritually dead in his sins, and unless he repents and confesses his sins, he will die eternally.

Notice that the way that the sinner is now following is referred to as HIS WAY, not God’s way, nor Christ’s way.

The word CONVERT here means to RETURN TO THE WORSHIP OF THE TRUE GOD.

I want you to pay attention also to the phrase HIDE A MULTITUDE OF SINS.

This phrase concerns me as regarding its meaning.

If the brother in error has sinned in such a way that everyone is already aware of his sins, how can those sins be hidden, or covered?

Does this Scripture refer to his past sins of which he repented of, or does it refer to future uncommitted sins that are prevented by his conversion?

How does a faithful brother cover up the multitude of sins when he converts his erring brother?
We find a similar passage used by Peter:

1 Peter 4:8>> And above all things have fervent charity among yourselves: for charity shall cover the multitude of sins.

This language may have been from the book of Psalms.

Psalms 32:1 Blessed is he whose transgression is forgiven, whose sin is covered. 2 Blessed is the man unto whom the LORD imputeth not iniquity, and in whose spirit there is no guile.

It does appear that the person’s sin is kept private, or hidden from anyone in the church; but instead indicates that God forgave him of his sins.

Realizing our own weaknesses, as we consider the sins of the one who has fallen, we should love the repentant sinner who confesses his sins before the church to the extent that we do not hold his sins against him, sins that God has forgiven him.

Fervent charity will move us to make every attempt to convert the one who has fallen away from the truth.

We see this same charity in the writings of the Apostles when they had to rebuke sin within various congregations.

Turn your Testament open to II Corinthians the 2nd chapter.

We can see an example of this kind of charity expressed by the Apostle Paul in II Corinthians 2.

2 Corinthians 2:1-11 But I determined this with myself, that I would not come again to you in heaviness. 2 For if I make you sorry, who is he then that maketh me glad, but the same which is made sorry by me? 3 And I wrote this same unto you, lest, when I came, I should have sorrow from them of whom I ought to rejoice; having confidence in you all, that my joy is [the joy] of you all. 4 For out of much affliction and anguish of heart I wrote unto you with many tears; not that ye should be grieved, but that ye might know the love which I have more abundantly unto you. 5 But if any have caused grief, he hath not grieved me, but in part: that I may not overcharge you all. 6 Sufficient to such a man [is] this punishment, which [was inflicted] of many. 7 So that contrariwise ye [ought] rather to forgive [him], and comfort [him], lest perhaps such a one should be swallowed up with overmuch sorrow. 8 Wherefore I beseech you that ye would confirm [your] love toward him. 9 For to this end also did I write, that I might know the proof of you, whether ye be obedient in all things. 10 To whom ye forgive any thing, I [forgive] also: for if I forgave any thing, to whom I forgave [it], for your sakes [forgave I it] in the person of Christ; 11 Lest Satan should get an advantage of us: for we are not ignorant of his devices.

I believe that we can get a good idea of the type of CHARITY or love that it takes to hide the sins of the unfaithful brother or sister who repents and confesses their sins, and is transformed from darkness to light.

In the case of the sinner that Paul has in mind in II Corinthians 2, you might note in V6 that he was punished by many, or probably by most of the church, if not all of them.

Here we must note that there are sins that separate one from Christ, and are such that demand that he must also be withdrawn from by the congregation.

Let me give you just a couple of several Scriptures that show this point:

Romans 16:17>> Now I beseech you, brethren, mark them which cause divisions and offences contrary to the doctrine which ye have learned; and avoid them.
2 Thessalonians 3:6>> Now we command you, brethren, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye withdraw yourselves from every brother that walketh disorderly, and not after the tradition which he received of us.

If a person has rejected the teachings of the Scriptures and refuses to repent, and then is withdrawn from, how can the congregation restore him or convert him back to the faith if he does not publicly confess?

In V4, Paul makes a reference to his former letter that he had written to them. Notice in V4 that when Paul had to rebuke Corinth, that he did it with great anguish in his heart, and with many tears.

If we ever have to censure a sinner in the congregation, it should be done with that same kind of love that Paul had toward Corinth.

If we approach a brother or sister in error, if we have fervent charity toward that brother or sister, we will anguish over what we have to say.

Such great love will hide a multitude of sins, whether former sins or those that will be left undone in his/her future.

I want you to remember that we began our study of this topic by considering the verse from James regarding confession:

James 5. 16 Confess [your] faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much.

In V16, one Christian shares his faults to another Christian, or Christians.

A growing Christian stumbles many times while he is growing spiritually.

I won’t list them all here, but you should know some of the things to which I am referring.

I will give one example: Let us assume that you have been studying to show yourself approved to Jesus Christ, and have come to the realization that you are not as patient with others as Christ would have you to be. With this fault, you go to a brother or sister, and share your weakness, and ask them to help you grow in this area, and ask him to pray for you. If we do not know one another’s spiritual needs, how can we pray one for another?

As we came to the end of our study in James, we see a different approach to sin.

There in V19, we see that one brother is involved in converting the sinning brother or sister back to the right path of truth.

James 5:19 Brethren, if any of you do err from the truth, and one convert him;

A similar passage is found in the letter to the Galatians.

Galatians 5:26 Let us not be desirous of vain glory, provoking one another, envying one another.

Galatians 6:1-2>>[1] Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault, ye which are spiritual, restore such an one in the spirit of meekness; considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted. [2] Bear ye one another's burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ.

Are you perfect?

Of course not, as no man is perfect on this earth, and all have sinned and come short of the glory of God.

We all need one another.

Sometimes, we may need to be restored if we are overtaken in a fault.

This was a trespass or an offense against the will of Christ that was OBVIOUS. The brother was OVERTAKEN in his fault. It had taken up a place in his life. It was not just an incidental mistake, or a sin out of ignorance, that once he became aware of it, he repented of.

The restoration was something that could be accomplished by a more spiritually minded brother. To RESTORE is the very similar to the concept of CONVERTING the brother who has erred from the truth in James 5.19.

We need to be more concerned with the overall spiritual welfare of the church. We are a body, and if one part of the body is sick, the entire body is sick. You might not think that you should be concerned with the sins or faults of others in the church. You might think that you should only be concerned with your own righteousness. In our Scriptural reference here in Galatians 6.1-2, Paul pointed out that the restoration of the brother overtaken in a fault was help for that brother in bearing his burden. If a brother or sister is spiritually in need, or has something lacking in their faith, we need to realize our own responsibility toward one another.
By love, we serve one another.

Now, I want to switch gears, so to speak, and direct your minds to consider whether there is a difference in private sins and in public sins, as I mentioned at the beginning.

There is a distinct difference in stumbling and in falling from grace.

There is a difference in being dead in ones sins, and committing a sin that will not be imputed to you.

Consider, if you will, the following question.

If a Christian falls from grace; if he is separated from fellowship with the church, and he wants to be restored to the faith, or converted; how can he make this known to the church?

Would a private prayer to God be sufficient?

Then, after asking God to forgive him of his sins, should he then expect the congregation to once again offer him full fellowship as a faithful brother, without ever making a public confession?

If we were forced to do the following, can we imply that such a person would be required to confess their repentance to the church before they could once again have COMPANY WITH HIM?

2 Thessalonians 3:14>> And if any man obey not our word by this epistle, note that man, and have no company with him, that he may be ashamed.

Considering those sins that are considered to be capital sins, such as are revealed in I Cor. 5.11, could we EAT with such a person without knowledge that they had repented?

1 Corinthians 5:11>> But now I have written unto you not to keep company, if any man that is called a brother be a fornicator, or covetous, or an idolater, or a railer, or a drunkard, or an extortioner; with such an one no not to eat.

Finally, we have the example given of the man who wanted to purchase the power of the Holy Spirit. This was wrong, and the man was told to repent and pray to God that the evil thought would be forgiven him.

Acts 8:20-24 But Peter said unto him, Thy money perish with thee, because thou hast thought that the gift of God may be purchased with money. 21 Thou hast neither part nor lot in this matter: for thy heart is not right in the sight of God. 22 Repent therefore of this thy wickedness, and pray God, if perhaps the thought of thine heart may be forgiven thee. 23 For I perceive that thou art in the gall of bitterness, and [in] the bond of iniquity. 24 Then answered Simon, and said, Pray ye to the Lord for me, that none of these things which ye have spoken come upon me.

In conclusion, I must state that I could not find definitive proof that one must walk forward and stand before the congregation to make a public confession, at least no examples or direct commands to do so.

I have shown that should one choose to do it that way, the person would not be doing anything in contradiction to what we have studied in James 5.16-20.

I have shown that the Scriptures infer or imply that in many instances, public confession is necessary when a sin is public in nature, or when a person has fallen away from the truth into error, and repents.

Dear Reader, if you believe that you are separated from Christ's fellowship, and if you believe that you have fallen from God's grace, that He may not hear your prayers, you may want to ask others to pray with you for your forgiveness, or you may wish to make it publicly known to your prior assembly, and ask for the prayers of all and that you may be publicly received back into their fellowship.
If you have never been in fellowship with Christ, today is the day of salvation, and you should obey the gospel of Christ, and be added by the Lord to His church. Repent while God gives you sufficient life, and submit to baptism in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of your sins that you may enjoy the vast and glorious promises of God.

Calling Good Evil, and Evil Good

2007-09-29T11:29:00.001-04:00

WHY DO THEY NAME THE GOOD AS EVIL?
Sermon #434; by Joe McClure; Date: February 19. 2006

It has been requested, by Jonathan, that I try to preach a sermon dealing with the question of why the world has redefined the meaning of righteousness.
Why do they define evil activity as that which is right?
Why do they define that which was good in our past as wrong today?
We live in a society where it is frowned upon to condemn that which God calls evil.
In the church there has been a movement for a number of years to redefine the terms.
The false teachers are calling ‘good’ as ‘evil’, and ‘evil’ as ‘good’.
In other words, the false preacher will not admit that he is doing anything wrong, or teaching anything false; but instead will define that which is evil as a good work.
We see a flip-flop church in many congregations today, churches in which the preacher who speaks the truth is disfellowship, and in which the false preacher is rewarded.
The preachers who have been bold enough to stand up and to preach against fornication and adultery among the brethren have been avoided like the black plague.
Psalms 38:20-- They also that render evil for good are mine adversaries; because I follow [the thing that] good [is].
When this happens to us, we should recall that the religious Jews stoned Jesus and finally crucified Him.
John 10.30 I and my Father are one. 31 Then the Jews took up stones again to stone him. 32 Jesus answered them, Many good works have I shewed you from my Father; for which of those works do ye stone me?
33 The Jews answered him, saying, For a good work we stone thee not; but for blasphemy; and because that thou, being a man, makest thyself God.
Notice the reverse type of thinking of these Jews toward Jesus.
They believed that they were stoning Jesus because he was preaching a false doctrine.
Their definition of ‘righteousness’ was different than given to them by God.
Since the Law of Moses was originally given to the children of Israel, it had been interpreted many times by the rabbis to mean something different than intended at the beginning.
The righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees could not be Scripturally defined as Godliness.
Matthew 5:20 For I say unto you, That except your righteousness shall exceed [the righteousness] of the scribes and Pharisees, ye shall in no case enter into the kingdom of heaven.
Was it wrong to keep the Law of Moses at that time?
A good study for you is to study the administration of the Law of Moses, as administered by the religious rulers in Israel.
Matthew 23:2-7 Saying, The scribes and the Pharisees sit in Moses' seat: 3 All therefore whatsoever they bid you observe, [that] observe and do; but do not ye after their works: for they say, and do not. 4 For they bind heavy burdens and grievous to be borne, and lay [them] on men's shoulders; but they [themselves] will not move them with one of their fingers. 5 But all their works they do for to be seen of men: they make broad their phylacteries, and enlarge the borders of their garments, 6 And love the uppermost rooms at feasts, and the chief seats in the synagogues, 7 And greetings in the markets, and to be called of men, Rabbi, Rabbi.
Before addressing my question, I want you to notice that one of the reasons for this condemnation by Jesus of the scribes and Pharisees was that they wanted to be in positions of power, and to be highly regarded by men.
Matthew 23:23-27 Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye pay tithe of mint and anise and cummin, and have omitted the weightier [matters] of the law, judgment, mercy, and faith: these ought ye to have done, and not to leave the other undone. 24 [Ye] blind guides, which strain at a gnat, and swallow a camel. 25 Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye make clean the outside of the cup and of the platter, but within they are full of extortion and excess. 26 [Thou] blind Pharisee, cleanse first that [which is] within the cup and platter, that the outside of them may be clean also. 27 Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye are like unto whited sepulchres, which indeed appear beautiful outward, but are within full of dead [men's] bones, and of all uncleanness.
The point that Jesus made here was that the Law of Moses was to be obeyed, while at the same time, Jesus tells the people not to follow the example set by their religious rulers.
Such is extremely hard to do. Men are more likely to follow a preacher’s example, or an elder’s example, as they show by their actions what they really believe to be right.

PERVERTED IDEA OF RIGHT AND WRONG:
Those who preach as ‘thus saith the Lord’ find that in many cases, that, instead of the unrepentant brother being disfellowshipped, that, the preacher is the one who is censured instead.
While it may seem that something different is going on in our generations than in the ‘good ole days’; such has been going on since time began.
There has always been a struggle between good and evil.
The question before us today is twofold. Why is evil seeming to win, and why is the church allowing evil to win?
During the days of those very early Christians, they did not have it easy when they stood with Jesus, and spake as Christ gave them words to speak.
Also during the early days of Christianity, we can see that men had a perverted idea of what was right and wrong.
In one case, Barnabus and Saul, along with John Mark were send out by Antioch Church of Christ to preach the gospel. Along the journey, they came to the isle of Paphos, and preached to the deputy of the country, an intelligent man named Sergius Paulus. A certain sorcerer and false prophet stood against the preachers of Christ.
Acts 13:9-12 Then Saul, (who also [is called] Paul,) filled with the Holy Ghost, set his eyes on him, 10 And said, O full of all subtilty and all mischief, [thou] child of the devil, [thou] enemy of all righteousness, wilt thou not cease to pervert the right ways of the Lord? 11 And now, behold, the hand of the Lord [is] upon thee, and thou shalt be blind, not seeing the sun for a season. And immediately there fell on him a mist and a darkness; and he went about seeking some to lead him by the hand. 12 Then the deputy, when he saw what was done, believed, being astonished at the doctrine of the Lord.
Here we see an enemy of the truth, who made no effort to hide whose side he was on. However, he had made some effort to convince Sergius Paulus not to obey the gospel, by doing false miracles.
In that case, the enemy of all righteousness, the child of the devil, was perverting that which was the right way.
Satan is subtle and his purpose is to muddy the waters, and cause man to think that he is doing that which is right, while in effect, he is doing wrong.
In the days of Paul, we see the results of this perversion of the truth in the nation of Israel.
Romans 10:1-3 Brethren, my heart's desire and prayer to God for Israel is, that they might be saved. 2 For I bear them record that they have a zeal of God, but not according to knowledge. 3 For they being ignorant of God's righteousness, and going about to establish their own righteousness, have not submitted themselves unto the righteousness of God.
They had a strong desire to be Godly. In other words, they wanted to be right with God in their heart.
Israel wanted to be right, but they did not know how to be right with God.
They did not have the right KNOWLEDGE.
Not knowing the truth, what did they do?
They made up their own version of the truth, and obeyed that false truth. This they did in ignorance, and thus they did not have in their mind knowledge of what the righteousness of God consisted of.
This passage of Scripture here in Romans 10 points out to us that we must submit to God’s righteousness, which is the word of faith preached by the apostles.
This does not differ from the apostles’ teaching to study the Word, and to examine one’s beliefs, and to stand for sound doctrine.
This does not differ from the apostles’ teaching to study the Word, and to examine one’s beliefs, and to stand for sound doctrine.
2 Timothy 4:1-4 I charge [thee] therefore before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at his appearing and his kingdom; 2 Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine. 3 For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears; 4 And they shall turn away [their] ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables.
We need to examine why that these Christians turned away from the truth to false doctrines.
Lust had something to do with their departure.
Instead of leaving the assembly of the church, they got preachers who would preach what they wanted to hear, words that made them comfortable in doing evil.
At some point later in such a congregation, those to come would be ignorant of the truth, having been raised up to believe lies.
Will you preach the word?
Will you use the Word to reprove, to rebuke, and to exhort?
PREPARE TO SUFFER FOR RIGHT:
We should be prepared to suffer when we stand up for that which is right.
I Peter 3. 8 ¶ Finally, be ye all of one mind, having compassion one of another, love as brethren, be pitiful, be courteous: 9 Not rendering evil for evil, or railing for railing: but contrariwise blessing; knowing that ye are thereunto called, that ye should inherit a blessing.
[Being persecuted by evildoers does not give us the right to take vengeance against those in the wrong by doing something wrong ourselves.]
I Peter 3.10 For he that will love life, and see good days, let him refrain his tongue from evil, and his lips that they speak no guile:
[EVIL WORDS: In your personal battle against Satan, never use evil words. If you do, they will be used against you. It is sinful for a Christian to use his words to deceive others. There is a danger of leaving the unbeliever with the idea that you agree with his evil position by deceitful words that might come out of your mouth.]
I Peter 3.11 Let him eschew evil, and do good; let him seek peace, and ensue it.
[EVIL ASSOCIATION: Do you associate with anything that is evil? Do you associate with people that are evil? If your life’s actions can be defined as ‘good’, or as righteous behaviour, then you will turn away from that which is evil.]
I Peter 3.12 For the eyes of the Lord are over the righteous, and his ears are open unto their prayers: but the face of the Lord is against them that do evil.
[RIGHTEOUS PRAY: As we can learn from studying the Israelites of ancient times, God refused to consider the prayers of those who had rejected His authority over them, and we saw this especially when they got in trouble and cried out to God.]
I Peter 3.13 And who is he that will harm you, if ye be followers of that which is good? [This is a question asked, and Peter points out that if it does take place we have a cause to be happy because we have suffered for a good cause.] I Peter 3.14 But and if ye suffer for righteousness’ sake, happy are ye: and be not afraid of their terror, neither be troubled;
[The only way that you can be happy when you are opposed for standing up for the truth is to be committed to serve Jesus as Lord, and to be willing to suffer so that right can be seen and heard.]
HONOR God:
SPEAK UP FOR Jesus:
I Peter 3.15 But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear:
NOT A HYPOCRIT:
I Peter 3.16 ¶ Having a good conscience; that, whereas they speak evil of you, as of evildoers, they may be ashamed that falsely accuse your good conversation in Christ.
In I Peter 3.12, God says that the prayers of the righteous are heard.
I believe that here is some evidence for us regarding the repentant Christian’s need of the prayers of the faithful saints. In other words, when the prodigal son or daughter returns to the fellowship of the assembly of the church, they need the prayers of the righteous to gain the ear of God.
Notice here in I Peter 3.16 that God knew that the time might come for the faithful child of God, the time when others would speak evil of the righteous; the time when others would actually call the Christian an evildoer.
I Peter 3.16 ¶ Having a good conscience; that, whereas they speak evil of you, as of evildoers, they may be ashamed that falsely accuse your good conversation in Christ.

We live in a society that punishes those that speak out against sin, while those who are evil are accepted into the highest of societies.
Ephesians 6:11-13 Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. 12 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]. 13 Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.
Just as the church of Christ was opposed by the religions of that time, which included the Jews, and those who worshipped the various false gods; we realize that we also face many false religions in our time.
Those who are faithful to the truth must oppose these false religions.
We are in an ‘evil day’ in a similar way as the early Christians were.
While we know that this happens, it is important that we honor Christ as Lord over our life, not our peers.
It is getting so bad that many no longer are able to discern good from evil.
Just as many have a perverted idea of what is right and what is wrong in the eyes of God; there is a way to know and to be assured with confidence that we are in the way that leads to life eternal.
TELL GOOD FROM EVIL:
They no longer know how to define the righteousness of God, nor to know the temptations of Satan.
Religious people are failing to read their bibles and failing to study the Scriptures, for the truth is defined by the Word of God.
Many in the church today do not know what truth is due to ignorance of the truth.

The Scriptures of God will teach us how to differentiate between that which is right and that which is wrong, that is if we will study it.
2 Timothy 3:16-17 All scripture [is] given by inspiration of God, and [is] profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: 17 That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.
What is one of the purposes of Scripture?
The Scripture is given to teach you in the ways of righteousness.
The Scripture is given to train you in righteousness.
The Scripture is given to be your guide in righteousness.
The Scripture is given as a book of instructions on how to be right.
Apparently there will always be those who sin willfully, with foreknowledge, and premeditation; but for those who have sanctified or honored Jesus as Lord over them, the New Testament is given by Christ so that we CAN know right from wrong.
The gospel calls us to both Holy thinking and Holy living.
Romans 12:1-2 I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, [which is] your reasonable service. 2 And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what [is] that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.
Do you behave like the world behaves?
Is your behaviour any different than that of your friends, of your family, or of your co-workers?
We can only know that which is acceptable to God when we educate our minds with the Scriptures of God.
Paul wrote the following to Timothy:
2 Timothy 3:12-15 Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution. 13 But evil men and seducers shall wax worse and worse, deceiving, and being deceived. 14 But continue thou in the things which thou hast learned and hast been assured of, knowing of whom thou hast learned [them]; 15 And that from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus.
Part of our service to Christ, as Lord, is to learn what it is that Jesus expects of us.
How valuable do you consider the Holy Scriptures to be in relation to your service to Christ, and in relation to your place in Heaven?
Philippians 3. 8 Yea doubtless, and I count all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord: for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and do count them but dung, that I may win Christ,
9 ¶ And be found in him, not having mine own righteousness, which is of the law, but that which is through the faith of Christ, the righteousness which is of God by faith:
Can you say that your righteousness is through your faith in Christ?
If yes is your answer, then you are proving all of your righteousness by the word of truth.
Those who have traveled the Christian path the longest should be faithful to train those younger Christians in the way of the Lord, and to teach them how to study the Scriptures in such a way that they can learn how to identify the works of Satan.
Hebrews 5:12-14 For when for the time ye ought to be teachers, ye have need that one teach you again which [be] the first principles of the oracles of God; and are become such as have need of milk, and not of strong meat. 13 For every one that useth milk [is] unskilful in the word of righteousness: for he is a babe. 14 But strong meat belongeth to them that are of full age, [even] those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil.
Are you skilful in the word of righteousness?
Do you know the difference in both good and evil?
Here we see that the understanding Christian is compared to an athlete, one who has exercised in using the tools that God has given us in order that he might be more able to understand the distinction between right and wrong.
How much spiritual exercise are you getting each day?
Do you go to the Word of God to get God’s advice on something that you are planning to do?
Do you respect the advice of faithful brethren more or less than you do your friends outside of the church?
Many times, Satan will blur the lines of distinction so that the lazy Christian will not be able to see the difference, and thus will not be able to see the good.
Once again, we must always remember that Satan is deceitful.
Several times in the Scriptures, we are told to ‘be not deceived’. We are not to ‘beware’.
I Corinthians 6. 9 ¶ 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,
10 Nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners, shall inherit the kingdom of God.
11 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 Scriptures teach us that even in the 1st century, the church was warned against the workers of Satan, who would disguise themselves as workers of Christ.
2 Corinthians 11:13-15 For such [are] false apostles, deceitful workers, transforming themselves into the apostles of Christ. 14 And no marvel; for Satan himself is transformed into an angel of light. 15 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.
One might ask how such a thing could happen in the Lord’s church, but remember that when a person loves the evil pleasures of this life that he will forsake that, which is good.
One of the ways that ancient Israel attempted to rename evil as good was in their rejection of God and in effect their rejection of God’s commandments.
Malachi 2:15-16 And did not he make one? Yet had he the residue of the spirit. And wherefore one? That he might seek a godly seed. Therefore take heed to your spirit, and let none deal treacherously against the wife of his youth. 16 For the LORD, the God of Israel, saith that he hateth putting away: for [one] covereth violence with his garment, saith the LORD of hosts: therefore take heed to your spirit, that ye deal not treacherously.Mal 2:17 Ye have wearied the LORD with your words. Yet ye say, Wherein have we wearied [him]? When ye say, Every one that doeth evil [is] good in the sight of the LORD, and he delighteth in them; or, Where [is] the God of judgment?
The sins, or lust of the flesh is one of the temptations that Satan has at his disposal in tempting mankind to sin, and for Christians to fall from grace.
If enough of the members of a congregation become weak in the faith, the end result is that they will become tempted to justify their sinful behaviour as righteous behaviour.
Proverbs 28:13 ¶ He that covereth his sins shall not prosper: but whoso confesseth and forsaketh [them] shall have mercy.
Today, we see that reflected in the increase of the divorces and remarriages taking place in the churches of Christ and the acceptance of them as approved of God.
It is not only fornication that has been redefined by false preachers, but many other sinful practices have been glossed over either as not evil at all, but not ‘very bad’; or at least not bad enough for you to worry about.
As Christians, we need to be honest about teaching the truth and pointing out what sin is, and what activities are sinful, as defined by the word of truth.
If you turn to II Timothy 3, and read that entire chapter, you can get a good idea of why people are so evil.
2 Timothy 3:1-17 This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come. 2 For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, 3 Without natural affection, trucebreakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good, 4 Traitors, heady, highminded, lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God; 5 Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away. 6 For of this sort are they which creep into houses, and lead captive silly women laden with sins, led away with divers lusts, 7 Ever learning, and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth. 8 Now as Jannes and Jambres withstood Moses, so do these also resist the truth: men of corrupt minds, reprobate concerning the faith. 9 But they shall proceed no further: for their folly shall be manifest unto all [men], as theirs also was. 10 But thou hast fully known my doctrine, manner of life, purpose, faith, longsuffering, charity, patience, 11 Persecutions, afflictions, which came unto me at Antioch, at Iconium, at Lystra; what persecutions I endured: but out of [them] all the Lord delivered me. 12 Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution. 13 But evil men and seducers shall wax worse and worse, deceiving, and being deceived. 14 But continue thou in the things which thou hast learned and hast been assured of, knowing of whom thou hast learned [them]; 15 And that from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus. 16 All scripture [is] given by inspiration of God, and [is] profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: 17 That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.
If we have educated ourselves with the instructions given by the Holy Spirit, we ought to be able to know the tree by its fruit.
Mat 7:17 Even so every good tree bringeth forth good fruit; but a corrupt tree bringeth forth evil fruit. Mat 7:18 A good tree cannot bring forth evil fruit, neither [can] a corrupt tree bring forth good fruit.
If we truly want to please Jesus as Lord, we will study His commandments given to us by the testimony of the apostles’ doctrine.
If our heart is right, then we are seeking the good things of God.
Mat 12:35 A good man out of the good treasure of the heart bringeth forth good things: and an evil man out of the evil treasure bringeth forth evil things.
Even though we know that Satan walks about, seeking whom he may devour, we should also be encouraged by the Word of truth. The Word assures us that we have power over evil if we have that which is good.
Romans 12:21 Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good.

2 John 1:9-11 Whosoever transgresseth, and abideth not in the doctrine of Christ, hath not God. He that abideth in the doctrine of Christ, he hath both the Father and the Son. 10 If there come any unto you, and bring not this doctrine, receive him not into [your] house, neither bid him God speed: 11 For he that biddeth him God speed is partaker of his evil deeds.

Return of Jesus

2007-09-29T11:26:00.000-04:00

Return of Jesus
Sermon #433; by Joe McClure; 2/05/2006

As has been requested by Sister Drema, today we are gong to look at the Scriptures that deal with the next appearance of Jesus Christ.
Will everyone arise from the dead at the same time?
Will there be a certain amount of time between the coming of Jesus for the dead and the saints who are alive?
First, I want to begin with some of the apostles’ teaching regarding the final judgment day.
The Scripture in question is found in I Thessalonians 4. Please turn there for the reading, beginning with V. 13.
1 Thessalonians 4:13-18 But I would not have you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning them which are asleep, that ye sorrow not, even as others which have no hope. 14 For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so them also which sleep in Jesus will God bring with him. 15 For this we say unto you by the word of the Lord, that we which are alive [and] remain unto the coming of the Lord shall not prevent them which are asleep. 16 For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first: 17 Then we which are alive [and] remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord. 18 Wherefore comfort one another with these words.
Notice that the address is to the saints, but as we begin to read, Paul refers to those who are asleep.
I strongly suggest that all of you that are interested in the subject of the resurrection read the entire 15th chapter of I Corinthians, but for today, we will look briefly at VS. 51-53.
1 Corinthians 15:51 ¶ Behold, I shew you a mystery; We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed, 15:52 In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump: for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed. 15:53 For this corruptible must put on incorruption, and this mortal must put on immortality.

· All people shall be changed at the last trump
· Change will be as fast as an eye blink.
· The change will be for those that sleep, and those who are alive.
· All of the dead will be resurrected as immortals.
· Those alive will be changed from mortals to immortals.

2 Corinthians 4:14-5:14 Knowing that he which raised up the Lord Jesus shall raise up us also by Jesus, and shall present [us] with you.
The ‘raising’ will be accomplished by Jesus.
The human body will be dissolved.
Ecclesiastes 3:19-21 For that which befalleth the sons of men befalleth beasts; even one thing befalleth them: as the one dieth, so dieth the other; yea, they have all one breath; so that a man hath no preeminence above a beast: for all [is] vanity. 20 All go unto one place; all are of the dust, and all turn to dust again. 21 Who knoweth the spirit of man that goeth upward, and the spirit of the beast that goeth downward to the earth?
We know that this happens whether it rots in the ground, or is burned up in a fire, or is dissolved when Jesus returns at the last day.

II Corinthians 5:1 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.
We each will receive a new house for the spirit.
2 For in this we groan, earnestly desiring to be clothed upon with our house which is from heaven: 3 If so be that being clothed we shall not be found naked. 4 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. 5 Now he that hath wrought us for the selfsame thing [is] God, who also hath given unto us the earnest of the Spirit.
Christians should not worry about death, and there should always be a part of us that wants to change habitations, to go to be with the Lord, absent from our physical body.
6 Therefore [we are] always confident, knowing that, whilst we are at home in the body, we are absent from the Lord: 7 (For we walk by faith, not by sight:) 8 We are confident, [I say], and willing rather to be absent from the body, and to be present with the Lord. 9 Wherefore we labour, that, whether present or absent, we may be accepted of him.
We must not ever forget the reality of death here, and always be ready to appear before our Lord Jesus Christ as our judge.
10 For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ; that every one may receive the things [done] in [his] body, according to that he hath done, whether [it be] good or bad.
Knowing that those who are not prepared to meet God will be cast into eternal darkness, we should try to be more persuasive of those we have any influence with.
11 Knowing therefore the terror of the Lord, we persuade men; but we are made manifest unto God; and I trust also are made manifest in your consciences.

Finally, I want to consider the evidences that prove beyond any doubt that everyone will resurrect on one last day.
There will be no period of time between the resurrection of the good and the evil, or the dead and the alive, but will all arise on the same day.
I want to notice one of Paul’s comments to the judge Felix, who he appeared before.

Acts 24:14-15 But this I confess unto thee, that after the way which they call heresy, so worship I the God of my fathers, believing all things which are written in the law and in the prophets: 15 And have hope toward God, which they themselves also allow, that there shall be a resurrection of the dead, both of the just and unjust.
This agrees with some of the facts that we have already noted earlier, in that all will arise at the coming of the Lord in a moment, as fast as you can blink your eye.
I Thessalonians 4 described the dead as ‘asleep’; and that God will bring with him the ones who sleep in Jesus, who will resurrect first, and then the saints who are alive will be changed.
Mostly, the verses we have considered to this point dealt with the saints; but now we see that Paul states that the unjust will also be resurrected.
Finally, I want to consider the teachings of the personal ministry of Jesus on the subject of the final resurrection.
Turn your bibles to John 5 please.
John 5:25 Verily, verily, I say unto you, The hour is coming, and now is, when the dead shall hear the voice of the Son of God: and they that hear shall live.
John 5:26 For as the Father hath life in himself; so hath he given to the Son to have life in himself;
John 5:27 And hath given him authority to execute judgment also, because he is the Son of man.
John 5:28-29-- Marvel not at this: for the hour is coming, in the which all that are in the graves shall hear his voice,
29 And shall come forth; they that have done good, unto the resurrection of life; and they that have done evil, unto the resurrection of damnation.
Notice that Jesus is addressing the issue of the coming judgment, and the resurrection.
Jesus says that the HOUR is coming. The hour of the last day is coming during which ALL that are in the grave will come forth, both the good and the bad.
Some might question further than what the scriptures reveal, but it does us little good to reason beyond what it revealed to us by God.
What kind of new house or tabernacle will we have at the resurrection? Will it be a human body?
Notice what the Christian is told about the resurrection of the body.
Philippians 3:21 Who shall change our vile body, that it may be fashioned like unto his glorious body, according to the working whereby he is able even to subdue all things unto himself.
Why would anyone want to be resurrected to eternal damnation, and eternal destruction?
We that love the Lord and keep ourselves pure have the great hope of being changed and sharing the GLORY of Christ.
I John 3.1 ¶ Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God: therefore the world knoweth us not, because it knew him not.
2 Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is.
3 And every man that hath this hope in him purifieth himself, even as he is pure.
John makes it plain that even he did not know what we shall be like as eternal beings, but it is good enough to know that we shall be like God in appearance.
These scriptures agree with what Jesus told the Sadducees about the resurrection.
Matthew 22. 29 Jesus answered and said unto them, Ye do err, not knowing the scriptures, nor the power of God.
30 For in the resurrection they neither marry, nor are given in marriage, but are as the angels of God in heaven.
Now, the final question that might come to our minds is that of asking where the spirits of the dead are until the coming of Jesus at the last day.
One thing that we know for sure is that the saints who are asleep or deceased in body will be coming with God on that last day.
I Thessalonians 4. 14 For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so them also which sleep in Jesus will God bring with him.
In one place, the Scriptures speak of the coming of Christ with thousands of saints.
Jude 1. 14 And Enoch also, the seventh from Adam, prophesied of these, saying, Behold, the Lord cometh with ten thousands of his saints,
15 ¶ To execute judgment upon all, and to convince all that are ungodly among them of all their ungodly deeds which they have ungodly committed, and of all their hard speeches which ungodly sinners have spoken against him.
I do not know how many that ‘ten thousands’ will be, except that it is first 10,000 saints and then multiplied from that.
While this may seem to imply to some that not all of the saints will be with Jesus at His coming, there is another passage that seems to teach that all the dead saints will be with Jesus.
1 Thessalonians 3:13 To the end he may stablish your hearts unblameable in holiness before God, even our Father, at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ with all his saints.
Not only will the saints be with Jesus at His coming, but the angels will be with him as well.
II Thessalonians 1. 7 And to you who are troubled rest with us, when the Lord Jesus shall be revealed from heaven with his mighty angels, 8 In flaming fire taking vengeance on them that know not God, and that obey not the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ: 9 Who shall be punished with everlasting destruction from the presence of the Lord, and from the glory of his power; 10 When he shall come to be glorified in his saints, and to be admired in all them that believe (because our testimony among you was believed) in that day.
The saints will have a great rejoicing day when Jesus comes for us, but those who do not know God, and those who have rejected the gospel of Jesus Christ will be removed from God’s presence, and punished with everlasting destruction.
I don’t know if you have ever thought about what it might mean to be destroyed for an eternity. Our feeble minds cannot grasp eternity, but think about your body being burned up, and then restored, then to be burned up again and again, forever and ever, with never any peace.
So, does the Scriptures reveal anything to us about where the saints are right now who have already left their physical bodily existence?
Where are they? Are they in Heaven?
One thought that comes to mind is that of paradise, which Jesus spake of while on the cross.
Luke 23:42-43 And he said unto Jesus, Lord, remember me when thou comest into thy kingdom. 43 And Jesus said unto him, Verily I say unto thee, To day shalt thou be with me in paradise.
Was this the same place that Lazarus went to?
Luke 16. 22 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;
23 And in hell he lift up his eyes, being in torments, and seeth Abraham afar off, and Lazarus in his bosom.
24 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.
25 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.
26 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.
27 Then he said, I pray thee therefore, father, that thou wouldest send him to my father’s house:
28 For I have five brethren; that he may testify unto them, lest they also come into this place of torment.
29 Abraham saith unto him, They have Moses and the prophets; let them hear them.
30 And he said, Nay, father Abraham: but if one went unto them from the dead, they will repent.
31 And he said unto him, If they hear not Moses and the prophets, neither will they be persuaded, though one rose from the dead.
Not only do we find comfort in this passage, but we again see that which awaits those who die, not having obeyed the will of God.
In the instance of the rich man and Lazarus, the resting place for the soul consisted of 2 places, one of torment and one of comfort.

Another place that ‘paradise’ is spoken of is found in the vision of the Apostle Paul in II Cor. 12.
II Corinthians 12. 2 I knew a man in Christ above fourteen years ago, (whether in the body, I cannot tell; or whether out of the body, I cannot tell: God knoweth;) such an one caught up to the third heaven.
3 And I knew such a man, (whether in the body, or out of the body, I cannot tell: God knoweth;)
4 How that he was caught up into paradise, and heard unspeakable words, which it is not lawful for a man to utter.
5 Of such an one will I glory: yet of myself I will not glory, but in mine infirmities.
6 For though I would desire to glory, I shall not be a fool; for I will say the truth: but now I forbear, lest any man should think of me above that which he seeth me to be, or that he heareth of me.
7 And lest I should be exalted above measure through the abundance of the revelations, there was given to me a thorn in the flesh, the messenger of Satan to buffet me, lest I should be exalted above measure.
8 For this thing I besought the Lord thrice, that it might depart from me.
9 And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.
All that we can tell about in this passage of Scriptures is the magnitude of its glory was so great that Paul had to be given a physical infirmity to remind him of his humanity, lest he should be ‘exalted above measure’.
Then in the letter of Jesus to the church at Ephesus, Jesus promised the faithful unto death a place in paradise.
Revelation 2:7 He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; To him that overcometh will I give to eat of the tree of life, which is in the midst of the paradise of God.
I am not sure that the Paradise that Jesus promised to the thief on the cross is the same as is promised to these Christians, or whether this refers to the final judgment of Heaven.
Rev 20:11 And I saw a great white throne, and him that sat on it, from whose face the earth and the heaven fled away; and there was found no place for them.
Rev 20:12 And I saw the dead, small and great, stand before God; and the books were opened: and another book was opened, which is [the book] of life: and the dead were judged out of those things which were written in the books, according to their works.
Rev 20:13 And the sea gave up the dead which were in it; and death and hell delivered up the dead which were in them: and they were judged every man according to their works.
Rev 20:14 And death and hell were cast into the lake of fire. This is the second death.
Rev 20:15 And whosoever was not found written in the book of life was cast into the lake of fire.
This vision seems to agree with the idea that there is a place where all the dead go to such as is described in the story of Lazarus and the rich man. Then, at the final hour, Jesus brings back the souls of the saints, along with the angels, and all are risen with incorruptible or eternal bodies, to be then given the rewards of heaven, or the punishment of hell.
Finally, I want to read what Jesus spake concerning the final judgment in Matthew 25, and this will be the final reading for today.
Matthew 25:31-46 When the Son of man shall come in his glory, and all the holy angels with him, then shall he sit upon the throne of his glory: 32 And before him shall be gathered all nations: and he shall separate them one from another, as a shepherd divideth [his] sheep from the goats: 33 And he shall set the sheep on his right hand, but the goats on the left. 34 Then shall the King say unto them on his right hand, Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world: 35 For I was an hungred, and ye gave me meat: I was thirsty, and ye gave me drink: I was a stranger, and ye took me in: 36 Naked, and ye clothed me: I was sick, and ye visited me: I was in prison, and ye came unto me. 37 Then shall the righteous answer him, saying, Lord, when saw we thee an hungred, and fed [thee]? or thirsty, and gave [thee] drink? 38 When saw we thee a stranger, and took [thee] in? or naked, and clothed [thee]? 39 Or when saw we thee sick, or in prison, and came unto thee? 40 And the King shall answer and say unto them, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have done [it] unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done [it] unto me. 41 Then shall he say also unto them on the left hand, Depart from me, ye cursed, into everlasting fire, prepared for the devil and his angels: 42 For I was an hungred, and ye gave me no meat: I was thirsty, and ye gave me no drink: 43 I was a stranger, and ye took me not in: naked, and ye clothed me not: sick, and in prison, and ye visited me not. 44 Then shall they also answer him, saying, Lord, when saw we thee an hungred, or athirst, or a stranger, or naked, or sick, or in prison, and did not minister unto thee? 45 Then shall he answer them, saying, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye did [it] not to one of the least of these, ye did [it] not to me. 46 And these shall go away into everlasting punishment: but the righteous into life eternal.
These Scriptures should encourage those who are serving Christ as Lord of their lives.
Those who are not in fellowship with God should consider themselves to be forewarned of the Judgment, which is to come upon all those who know not God, and who have not obeyed the gospel of Christ, our Lord.
We should also think on these things and have a burden laid upon us to evangelize, to preach the gospel to all that we can in this life, warning them of judgment to come.
God gives us the facts, and the free choice of where we wish to go.
Where will you go?
We invite you to come, and obey Jesus Christ, while you are still blessed with life to obey.