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Bro Bob   IXTHEUS CHRISTIAN GROWTH Empty Re: Bro Bob IXTHEUS CHRISTIAN GROWTH

Post  Admin Mon 11 May 2009, 1:07 pm

Bible Study Software, Links and Books Lesson
5c-How to study the Bible
2 Tim 2:15-16 (KJV) Study to show thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth. {16} But shun profane and vain babblings: for they will increase unto more ungodliness. Prov 1:1-7 (KJV) The proverbs of Solomon the son of David, king of Israel; {2} To know wisdom and instruction; to perceive the words of understanding; {3} To receive the instruction of wisdom, justice, and judgment, and equity; {4} To give subtlety to the simple, to the young man knowledge and discretion. {5} A wise man will hear, and will increase learning; and a man of understanding shall attain unto wise counsels: {6} To understand a proverb, and the interpretation; the words of the wise, and their dark sayings. {7} The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge: but fools despise wisdom and instruction. (Neh 8:1-10 KJV) And all the people gathered themselves together as one man into the street that was before the water gate; and they spake unto Ezra the scribe to bring the book of the law of Moses, which the LORD had commanded to Israel. {2} And Ezra the priest brought the law before the congregation both of men and women, and all that could hear with understanding, upon the first day of the seventh month. {3} And he read therein before the street that was before the water gate from the morning until midday, before the men and the women, and those that could understand; and the ears of all the people were attentive unto the book of the law.... {5} And Ezra opened the book in the sight of all the people; (for he was above all the people;) and when he opened it, all the people stood up: {6} And Ezra blessed the LORD, the great God. And all the people answered, Amen, Amen, with lifting up their hands: and they bowed their heads, and worshipped the LORD with their faces to the ground. {7} Also Jeshua, and Bani, and Sherebiah, Jamin, Akkub, Shabbethai, Hodijah, Maaseiah, Kelita, Azariah, Jozabad, Hanan, Pelaiah, and the Levites, caused the people to understand the law: and the people stood in their place. {8} So they read in the book in the law of God distinctly, and gave the sense, and caused them to understand the reading. {9} And Nehemiah, which is the Tirshatha, and Ezra the priest the scribe, and the Levites that taught the people, said unto all the people, This day is holy unto the LORD your God; mourn not, nor weep. For all the people wept, when they heard the words of the law. {10} Then he said unto them, Go your way, eat the fat, and drink the sweet, and send portions unto them for whom nothing is prepared: for this day is holy unto our Lord: neither be ye sorry; for the joy of the LORD is your strength. (2 Tim 2:2 KJV) And the things that thou hast heard of me among many witnesses, the same commit thou to faithful men, who shall be able to teach others also. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
VARIOUS BIBLE REFERENCE BOOKS, WEBSITES AND SOFTWARE TO ENHANCE YOUR BIBLE STUDY

BIBLE SOFTWARE PUBLISHERS (free and downloadable)
E-4 Free Bible Study Software http://www.freebiblesoftware.com/default.asp
e-Sword Free Bible study software http://www.e-sword.net
ON-LINE BIBLE STUDY TOOLS AND DOWN-LOADABLE SHAREWARE On-line King James Bible and search engine http://www.hti.umich.edu/relig/kjv/
On-line source of many Bible study tools and downloads http://bible.crosswalk.com/ Omni List of Christian Bibles, Studies and Devotionals http://www.arthursfamily.com/omnilist/
Grace To You site with many resources and transcripts of messages http://www.gty.org/MeetGTY/

CREATION vs EVOLUTION STUDIES
Creation Science Evangelism http://www.drdino.com/ The Institute for Creation Research http://www.icr.org The Creation Research Society http://www.creationresearch.org/
The Creation-Evolution Encyclopedia http://www.pathlights.com/ce_encyclopedia/Index.htm Answers in Genesis Site http://www.answersingenesis.org/
FAVORITE CHRISTIAN SITES The Crosswalk site http://www.crosswalk.com
In Touch, the ministry of Charles Stanley http://www.intouch.org
The Elmbrook Church Web Site http://www.elmbrook.org
New Tribes Mission http://www.ntm.org/
Village Missions http://www.villageministries.org/

FAVORITE EVANGELISM and CHRISRTIAN GROWTH RESOURCES
Ixtheus Ministries Archived Devotionals Website The 4 Spiritual Laws in 67 Languages http://www.greatcom.org/laws/languages.html

God's Simple Plan of Salvation in 17 languages http://www.godssimpleplan.org/gsps.html
Stuart Briscoe Classic Taped Sermons and Bible studies http://www.tellingthetruth.org/ CHRISTIAN BOOK PUBLISHERS and DISTRIBUTERS All books including Christian Books (search engine) http://www.amazon.com
Find Christian Bible References used or new at low prices www.alibris.com
CHRISTIAN BOOKS AND BIBLE STUDY REFERENCES (Some of these are available on Bible Software) The New Scofield Reference Bible `
The Thompson Chain-Reference Bible
The Hebrew-Greek Key Study Bibleby Spiros Zodhiates-(KJV keyed to Strong's Numbers in the text, Strongs Dictionary in the Back)
The Amplified Bible The Living Bible (paraphrased) The Expanded New Testament by Kenneth Wuest Analytical Greek New Testament by B & T Friberg
The Interlinear Bible,
Hebrew, Greek, English by Jay Green (Based on the Textus Receptus)
The Treasury of Scripture Knowledge (Topical Cross-References for every Bible Verse)
Strongs Exhaustive Concordance (Concordance keyed to Greek and Hebrew Dictionaries in the back) by James Strong
If the Foundations by Destroyed (Reasons to study in the King James Version of the Bible)available at http://www.chick.com/catalog/books/0132.asp?FROM=biblecenter
With Christ in the School of Prayer by Andrew Murray
The Kneeling Christian (Clarion Classics) by an unknown christian
Power Through Prayer by E.M. Bounds The Master Plan of Evangelism by Robert E. Coleman,
Angels: God's Secret Agents, by Billy Graham, 1994 Heaven by W.A. Criswell and Paige Patterson Vine's Complete Expository Dictionary of Old and New Testament Words by W.E.Vine
The Zondervan Topical Bible edited by Edward Viening Word Studies in the Greek New Testament by Kenneth Wuest Principles of Biblical Hermaneutics (Bible interpretation methods) by J. Edwin Hartill Galatians (Various Bible Study Methods applied to Galatians) by Merrill Tenney
Major Bible Themes by Lewis Sperry Chafer Systematic Theology by L. Berkhof Webster's
New World Dictionary, College Edition(1957),(Gives derivations of english words from foreign and ancient languages, very helpful)(ps: when studying the KJV Bible, with dictionaries, the older the better)
-----------------------------------------
IXTHEUS CHRISTIAN GROWTH DEVOTIONALSALWAYS FREE OF CHARGE(but not necessarily free of COST)Feel free to redistribute these materials to whomever you want.
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Post  Admin Mon 11 May 2009, 12:52 pm

HOW TO STUDY THE BIBLE
Bible Study Methods
Lesson six
(2 Tim 2:15 KJV)
Study to show thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.
(Heb 4:12 KJV) For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.
Preparation To effectively study the Bible, you need to: 1. Read the scriptures carefully and prayerfully. As you take up the scriptures to read, pray that the Lord will open your eyes, that you will see and understand what it is that He has for you today.
(Psa 119:18 KJV) Open thou mine eyes, that I may behold wondrous things out of thy law.
2.Take notes. Write down everything. Create a notebook that is set apart just for your scripture notes. This will be a helpful reference in the future. (Deu 17:18-20 KJV) And it shall be, when he sitteth upon the throne of his kingdom, that he shall write him a copy of this law in a book out of that which is before the priests the Levites: /{19} And it shall be with him, and he shall read therein all the days of his life: that he may learn to fear the LORD his God, to keep all the words of this law and these statutes, to do them: {20} That his heart be not lifted up above his brethren, and that he turn not aside from the commandment, to the right hand, or to the left: to the end that he may prolong his days in his kingdom, he, and his children, in the midst of Israel.
3. Be receptive to the Holy Spirit's teaching. Leave your pre-conceived ideas behind. Let the scriptures teach YOU, don't try to twist the scriptures to say something that God did not put there.
(Psa 86:11-13 KJV) Teach me thy way, O LORD; I will walk in thy truth: unite my heart to fear thy name. {12} I will praise thee, O Lord my God, with all my heart: and I will glorify thy name for evermore. {13} For great is thy mercy toward me: and thou hast delivered my soul from the lowest hell. 4.
Memorize as much of the scripture as you can. This allows the Holy Spirit to bring verses back to your remembrance at appropriate times, and allows you to compare scripture with scripture in your mind at any time of the day.
(Psa 119:10-12 KJV) With my whole heart have I sought thee: O let me not wander from thy commandments. {11} Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee. {12} Blessed art thou, O LORD: teach me thy statutes.
Three Ways to Study the Bible There are three basic ways to study the scriptures.
a. TOPICAL b. EXPOSITORY c. MEDITATIONAL
Let's take a quick look at each of these:
TOPICAL: This is just what the name implies. You choose a "topic" in the scriptures to study. Pick one that interests you. Something that you would like to learn more about. Then, using a Concordance, look up all the references to that topic, write them down, and then look them up in the Bible. This can take some time. But the more time you set aside for serious study, the greater the rewards. Read each passage carefully, and answer these questions in your notebook: 1.) What does this passage mean? 2.) How does it apply to me? 3.) What can I learn from it? Examples of some Biblical topics are: Prayer, fasting, grace, salvation, tithing, faith, repentance, confession, and there are so many others . If you are using Bible Software with a concordance search engine, you can do multi-word topical studies, such as "fear not", "strong drink", "new covenant", "unto the end", "last days".
EXPOSITORY:

(Neh 8:8 KJV) So they read in the book in the law of God distinctly, and gave the sense, and caused them to understand the reading. This word literally means "a detailed explanation". Referring to a study of the Bible it means a detailed study of a verse, a chapter or a book (or books) of the Bible. To do an expository study, pick a verse or several verses to study. Start with just a few verses at first, because you will be essentally studying every word of the passage. This can involve a lot of work and time, but the result is well worth the effort. Read your selection through very carefully several times before you start your study of it. Then, when you are ready, read it through once again slowly. Write in your notebook all the major words that are used in it. Once you have them all listed, look them up in the Concordance. Look up the meanings of the words and write those down. Check for any verb tense information help in the Amplified Bible or the Expanded Translation or the Analytical New Testament, as mentioned in the Study Tools. Check the references to other scriptures where those words are used. Read them and make notes on how those scriptures apply to the ones you are studying. This can get quite detailed. Take your time.Check a Bible Commentary, a Bible Dictionary and/or a Bible Encyclopedia and see what they say about the scriptures you are studying. Make notes on all relevant material, listing the references used.Then, looking over all the material you have gathered, write down the interpretation (What it Means) and the application (What it Means to Me and how I can apply it to my life).
MEDITATIONAL
Psa 1:1-3 (KJV) Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful. {2} But his delight is in the law of the LORD; and in his law doth he meditate day and night. {3} And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper.
Meditational Bible Study is one of the highest forms of study. It is commended in scripture as one of the ways to God's blessing on the life!It begins by memorizing. This is what the scriptures mean when it talks about "hiding God's Word" in your heart. You hide it in your heart by memorizing it. MEMORIZATION There are many little "tricks" to memorization.
SETTING THE scriptURES TO MUSIC
One way is to set the section to music and sing it. There is something about the flow of a song lyric that aids memory recall. Take note that the words to Handel's Messiah are almost all Bible Verses. If you memorize the words so that you can sing the Messiah at Christmastime, you are memorizing scripture and will quote it back easily as the music carries you along.
WRITING OUT THE scriptURES BY HAND
Another effective method of memorizing scripture is to write out the passage,that you are seeking to memorize, word for word, by hand .This method enables you to process the passage several times through your consciousness in several ways as you write the passage. By writing a passage down you have to : 1) Read it and look at it many times as you write down each word.2) To process it through your brain as your hand writes it down.3) To read it again many times as you write it down.4) You can even read the passage out loud to yourself as you write it down.5) You can write it down as many times as it takes to memorize the passage. Note again the commandment to the King of Israel to do this very thing, and the benefits it will have:
(Deu 17:18-20 KJV) And it shall be, when he sitteth upon the throne of his kingdom, that he shall write him a copy of this law in a book out of that which is before the priests the Levites: /{19} And it shall be with him, and he shall read therein all the days of his life: that he may learn to fear the LORD his God, to keep all the words of this law and these statutes, to do them:
Once you have a section of the scripture memorized, you meditate on it by filling your mind with it and meditating on it. You let the words of the memorized portion run through your mind, again and again. Joshua 1:8 KJVThis book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou shalt meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein: for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then shalt thou have good success.
As you do this prayerfully, thoughts, ideas, and concepts will be revealed to your mind. You may even think of other verses that relate to the one you are memorizing, and how the truths of those verses apply to what you are studying. You may even consult "The 'Treasury of scripture Knowledge", one of the most valuable Bible study tools, for related Bible verses to the one you are studying. Keep a notebook handy and write them down. As you think on the scripture you have memorized, look for 1.) Interpretation - What it means. and2.) Application - How to apply it to your life. Be sure to write down what you are learning. Quite often the more you meditate upon a scripture or a portion of scripture, the more revelation you receive about it. Again, take your time. One way to use scriptures you have memorized is to quote them out loud during times of emotional upheaval. For instance, if you have memorized the 23rd Psalm, during a period of "darkness" you can quote this scripture. It affirms your faith, brings light and peace, and will help keep your mind from running away with worry or fear. Try it! Pick out a method that intrigues you, or try them all, or make up one of your own. The important thing is to improve your Bible Study skills, and to become more skillful at using God's word for witnessing and your personal Christian Growth.
(Psa 119:103-105 KJV) How sweet are thy words unto my taste! yea, sweeter than honey to my mouth! {104} Through thy precepts I get understanding: therefore I hate every false way. {105} NUN. Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path. God Bless you as you study and meditate on God's Word.In Christ.....brother bob.....<><
----------------------------
For further study, Check out these archives of past devotionals: (Note: the devotionals may be under the headings of "discussions" "files" or "pages" )
http://groups.google.com/group/ixtheus-devotionals-archive-part-2?msg=new&lnk=gcis&hl=enhttp://groups.google.com/group/ixtheus-devotionals-archive/web?hl=enhttp://groups.google.com/group/ixtheus-devotionals-archive/webhttp://groups.google.com/group/ixtheus-archives-part-3/http://groups.google.com/group/ixtheus-devotionals-archive-4
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
IXTHEUS CHRISTIAN GROWTH DEVOTIONALSALWAYS FREE OF CHARGE(but not necessarily free of COST)Feel free to redistribute these materials to whomever you want.
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Bro Bob   IXTHEUS CHRISTIAN GROWTH Empty HOW TO STUDY THE BIBLE

Post  Admin Mon 11 May 2009, 12:42 pm

HOW TO STUDY THE BIBLE
Lesson Five: Bible Study Tools by Brother bob...<><


{Please note: Many of these same Bible Study Tools are available free on-line for you to use anytime at http://www.biblestudytools.net . I also highly recommend the free Bible software available for download at E-sword, http://www.e-sword.net/downloads.html

Dear Friends in Christ,

One important point to always remember as you approach studying God's Word is to submit yourself to the power and person of the Holy Spirit to teach you what His Word means. There are many teachers and preachers and writers of books and scholars who would like to tell you what they think the Bible means; but there is only One Holy Spirit who actually inspired the Bible and told the writers what to write. God therefore knows exactly what the Bible means . He is also waiting for you to yield yourself to His teaching as you study this Holy Book.
(2 Pet 1:21 KJV)
For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost.
Before you go to study His Word, pray a simple prayer like this,
"Lord God, Holy Spirit, teach me what You want me to know from your Word today. I want to cast aside all my preconceived ideas about your Word, and submit myself afresh to Your teaching. It is in Jesus' Name I pray this. Amen" God Bless you as you study His Word.In Christ....brother bob.....<><

There are a number of very helpful Bible study tools:

1. KING JAMES VERSION F THE BIBLE
We start out with the King James version for a number of reasons:(The following is quoted from http://www.jesus-is-lord.com/bible.htm , "The Most Important Book in the Universe" , author unknown. "The Holy Bible is the Authorized King James Version of 1611. The Bible is the best selling book of all time. The King James Bible has served Christians, and unbelievers (as a savour unto death), for almost 400 years and has brought millions to the life saving knowledge of Jesus Christ. The King James Bible is the culmination of the ancient Bibles begun by Wycliffe..... According to Dr. Jewell Smith, the King James Bible produced more martyrs than any other Bible. Blood, tears, imprisonment, torture, trial and tribulation went into every page of THAT BOOK." There are also many other reasons to start with the KJV. The KJV starts from Original Greek and Hebrew texts which are much older and more complete than the texts used for many of the Modern Versions. There are 155 verses missing, for example, from the New International Version, because of the texts used to translate it. These missing verses tend to demean the Deity of Christ, de-emphasize the second coming of Christ, and impact dozens of other important Bible Doctrines so important to our faith. (See the little book, http://www.chick.com/catalog/books/0132.asp?FROM=biblecenter )According to the book, "If the Foundations Be Destroyed" by Chick Salliby, some of the doctrines which the NIV translation has a negative impact on are: Redemption, Christ's Eternal Existence, Christ's Deity, Deity Provable in Christ as Judge, Christ the Creator, Christ the Son of God, Virgin Birth, Also Concerning Christ's Birth, Christ's Incarnation, Christ's Omnipresence, Worship of Christ, Christ's Commission, Christ's Miracles,Christ the Comforter, Christ's Teachings and Words, Christ's Teaching on Eternal Punishment, Christ's Teaching on Prayer and Fasting, Steps to the Cross, Trial, Crucifixion, and Resurrection, Ascencion and Glorification of Christ, Christ's Priesthood, Christ's Lordship, Christ's Grace, Christ's Return, Christ's Eternal Existence (Future), Title "Lord", Title "Christ", Title "Jesus", Names and Titles of Jesus Christ are Omitted in the NIV. These omissions are common to all the Newer Translations which are based on the same corrupted texts. You can see that taken together, these missing topics and verses completely damage our understanding of what God has already revealed tous. Anyway, there are even more practical reasons to use the KJV as your main source as a study Bible source: 1) The KJV appears to be the closest thing to a word for word translation of the original Greek and Hebrew texts. I found this out by studying the Bible using only the KJV Bible and the Strongs Exhaustive Concordance (an essential companion to the KJV Bible). This study was done in the 1970's, long before computers or Bible software were available. In the Strong's Concordance, every word of the KJV Bible is listed in a group together with every time that English word occurs in the BIble. Each English word is given a reference number, and each reference number refers to either the Hebrew (Old Testament) or Greek (New Testament) dictionary in the back of the book. These dictionaries, then, list the meaning of that word in the original language, and the origin of the word from other words in the original language, and the various ways the word is translated in the KJV Bible. The more you use this treasure, the more valuable you see it is to get as close to the correct meaning of a verse as possible, and avoid confusion due to archaic English words which were correct translations of the hebrew or greek back then, but have changed in meaning and useage today. The Greek and Hebrew dictionaries also give subtle nuances of the original words which clarify the intent of God as He inspired the text. 2) There are many other valuable Bible study tools which have been created since about the early 1900's, which not only were all originally based on the KJV translation, but some of which also refer to the Strong's Dictionary reference numbers, which again are based on KJV words. Don't be put off by the fact that these references are "so old"... the fact is that they are very scholarly and helpful Bible references, and in many cases modern Bible Software packages converted them to digital and searchable format, right from their original form. This testifies to me of their timeless value. 3) As you study the KJV using the Strong's concordance, you see the Genius of the Holy Spirit in the arrangement and "searchable-ness" of the translation. For example, it is very easy to trace one doctrine of the scriptures through the KJV Bible by doing a "search" on a single word or a single phrase. Dare I suggest that God arranged it this way from eternity for the coming of computers? (A mind-blowing thought.) It must be stated that every English word in the KJV may be translated by one or more Hebrew or Greek words, but you can still trace one topic using the same Hebrew or Greek word by searching for the same number word. There does, however, seem to be an economy of words used in the KJV translation, ie, one English word for one Greek or Hebrew word, most of the time. You thereby don't need to be a scholar of these languages (although that would be nice). There are, however, various verb tenses of the original words and other grammatical properties of the original language which are not given in the Strongs, but there are other Bible Study Tools which do help out with these things.
OTHER HELPFUL TRANSLATIONS Having said all of the above, there are a few different translations which I sometimes use as a quick help to understand a Bible passage when the KJV is just not understandable.

1) The New King James Version (NKJV) . In recent months I have been doing my daily Bible reading from the John Mac Arthur Study Bible in the NKJV translation. I find it almost identical to the KJV with only a few changes of words, no deleted verses, and smooth reading. The footnotes and marginal references are excellent and extraordinarily helpful.
2) The Amplified Bible. This Bible version contains verb tenses, word meanings, explanations, right in the verse itself, and encouragingly enough, seems to surround these things with the KJV translation in the same verse. It is a scholarly-done reference Bible, which may be difficult to read as easily as reading a newspaper, but it is a valuable companion to the KJV and the Strongs as a study aid. 3) The Expanded New Testament by Kenneth Wuest. This version of the New testament was written by a Greek Scholar, Kenneth Wuest, and attempts to express the difficult to understand Greek verb tenses into an English Translation. The reading is a bit unusual, because Greek does not easily translate into English. Greek is a more complex language than English with complex verb tenses expressed in the endings of the word, instead a number of accompanying and modifying wrods as done in English. However, once you get accustomed to reading it, the same as for the Amplified, it is a helpful study aid and well worth the effort. The next lesson will discuss even more Bible Study Tools. God Bless you as you Study God's Word. In Christ....brother bob.......<><
---------------------------------
--Bible Study Verses to Ponder--Comparison of Several Bible Versions
2 Tim 2:14-16 (KJV)
Of these things put them in remembrance, charging them before the Lord that they strive not about words to no profit, but to the subverting of the hearers. {15} Study to show thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth. {16} But shun profane and vain babblings: for they will increase unto more ungodliness.

2 Tim 2:14-16 (AMPLIFIED)
(14) Remind [the people] of these facts and [solemnly] charge them in the presence of the Lord to avoid petty controversy over words, which does no good but upsets and undermines the faith of the hearers.(15) Study and be eager and do your utmost to present yourself to God approved (tested by trial), a workman who has no cause to be ashamed, correctly analyzing and accurately dividing [rightly handling and skillfully teaching] the Word of Truth.(16) But avoid all empty (vain, useless, idle) talk, for it will lead people into more and more ungodliness.
2 Tim 2:14-16 (TLB-The Living Bible, a paraphrase) Remind your people of these great facts, and command them in the name of the Lord not to argue over unimportant things. Such arguments are confusing and useless and even harmful. {15} Work hard so God can say to you, "Well done." Be a good workman, one who does not need to be ashamed when God examines your work. Know what his Word says and means. {16} Steer clear of foolish discussions that lead people into the sin of anger with each other.
2 Tim 2:14-16 (Wuest's Expanded Translation){14}These things be constanly reminding them,charging them in the presence of Godnot to be continually wrangling about empty and trifling matters,which results in not one useful thing, since it ruins those who hear.{15}Bend your every effort to present yourself to God,approved, a workman unashamed,expounding soundly the Word of Truth.{16}But with reference to unhallowed and empty discussions,give them wide berth, for they will progress toward more impiety towards God, and their word will spread as does a cancer.
-----------------
VERSES FOR YOU TO PONDER
(Luke 1:71-79 KJV)
That we should be saved from our enemies, and from the hand of all that hate us; {72} To perform the mercy promised to our fathers, and to remember his holy covenant; {73} The oath which he sware to our father Abraham, {74} That he would grant unto us, that we being delivered out of the hand of our enemies might serve him without fear, {75} In holiness and righteousness before him, all the days of our life. {76} And thou, child, shalt be called the prophet of the Highest: for thou shalt go before the face of the Lord to prepare his ways; {77} To give knowledge of salvation unto his people by the remission of their sins, {78} Through the tender mercy of our God; whereby the dayspring{Grk=sunrise} from on high hath visited us, {79} To give light to them that sit in darkness and in the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the way of peace. (2 Tim 3:16-17 KJV) 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, thoroughly furnished unto all good works.
(2 Tim 4:1-5 KJV) 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. {5} But watch thou in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, make full proof of thy ministry.
(1 Pet 1:3-12 KJV)
Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, which according to his abundant mercy hath begotten us again unto a lively hope by the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, {4} To an inheritance incorruptible, and undefiled, and that fadeth not away, reserved in heaven for you, {5} Who are kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation ready to be revealed in the last time. {6} Wherein ye greatly rejoice, though now for a season, if need be, ye are in heaviness through manifold temptations: {7} That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honour and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ: {8} Whom having not seen, ye love; in whom, though now ye see him not, yet believing, ye rejoice with joy unspeakable and full of glory: {9} Receiving the end of your faith, even the salvation of your souls. {10} Of which salvation the prophets have inquired and searched diligently, who prophesied of the grace that should come unto you: {11} Searching what, or what manner of time the Spirit of Christ which was in them did signify, when it testified beforehand the sufferings of Christ, and the glory that should follow. {12} Unto whom it was revealed, that not unto themselves, but unto us they did minister the things, which are now reported unto you by them that have preached the gospel unto you with the Holy Ghost sent down from heaven; which things the angels desire to look into.
(2 Sam 23:2-4 KJV) The spirit of the LORD spake by me, and his word was in my tongue. {3} The God of Israel said, the Rock of Israel spake to me,He that ruleth over men must be just, ruling in the fear of God. {4} And he shall be as the light of the morning, when the sun riseth, even a morning without clouds; as the tender grass springing out of the earth by clear shining after rain.
-----------------------------
For further study, Check out these archives of past devotionals:
http://groups.google.com/group/ixtheus-devotionals-archive-part-2?msg=new&lnk=gcis&hl=enhttp://groups.google.com/group/ixtheus-devotionals-archive/web?hl=enhttp://groups.google.com/group/ixtheus-devotionals-archive/webhttp://groups.google.com/group/ixtheus-archives-part-3/http://groups.google.com/group/ixtheus-devotionals-archive-4
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Post  Admin Mon 04 May 2009, 6:56 pm

Some Helpful Bible Study Tools
Lesson 5b

Psa 119:9-12 (KJV)
BETH. Wherewithal shall a young man cleanse his way?
by taking heed thereto according to thy word.
{10} With my whole heart have I sought thee:
O let me not wander from thy commandments.
{11} Thy word have I hid in mine heart,
that I might not sin against thee.
{12} Blessed art thou, O LORD:
teach me thy statutes.


Dear Friends in Christ,
If I were ever limited to only 2 books to have on a desert island, they would be a King James Bible and a Strong's Exhaustive Concordance. I have been a big fan of The Strongs Concordance for over 40 years.

The book has been in existence for over 100 years, and is probbably the first example of a manually searchable database of Bible words and verses. There is even a Hebrew and Greek Dictionary in the back, with the English words keyed to the corresponding Hebrew or Greek words by a simple numbering system. This eliminates the need to know how to read the original languages that the Bible was inspired in, and yet allows one to get an understanding of the deeper meanings of the original word. This often helps to clarify misunderstandings in interpretation of a Bible verse.

The only way to improve on Strong's Exhaustive was to computerize it and add a computer search engine. An example of a Computerized Strongs Concordance, along with many other useful Bible Study tools, are all available at the following website online and no need to download..
http://bible.crosswalk.com/index.cgi
I suggest that you become familiar with using this classic Bible study tool to further your own education in God's Word....doing topic studies, word studies, character studies and doctrine studies. We are truly blessed in this age with the opportunity to use these tools for the furtherance of our growth in Christ and the furtherance of God's Kingdom. Let us not let them become an un-used blessing, especially when there is so much darkness in the world around us.

The Bible Study Tools described below have been available in printed book form for many years. They are also avaialble in digital software form. One ministry provides them free for just the cost of shipping or a donation or in downloading form at
http://www.e-sword.net/downloads.html . There is another free set of software at http://www.free-bible-software.com/OrderConditions.asp . I encourage you to take advantage of these study tools and use them to enhance your understanding of God's Word.

Jer 15:16 (KJV)
Thy words were found, and I did eat them;
and thy word was unto me the joy and rejoicing of mine heart:
for I am called by thy name, O LORD God of hosts.
God Bless you in your study of the Word of God.
In Christ.................brother bob........<

How To Use the Strong’s Concordance
http://www.theanswer.org/biblestudy/strongs.htm
A concordance is an index, or alphabetical listing, of words used in the Bible, with references to chapter and verse. Strongs is an exhaustive (or complete) index of all the words used in the King James Version of the Bible. It lists every word in the Bible including every "a", "and", "the", "but" and similar words, and every verse where they are found. A concordance is a tool for the Bible student to study all the places in the Bible where a particular word is found, or more broadly, to study a Bible topic, a Bible subject, person, idea or doctrine.
There are several reasons for using a concordance:
(1) TO LOCATE A VERSE OF SCRIPTURE
Often times you are trying to remember a Bible verse, or part of a Bible verse, but you just couldn't remember where it was in the Bible? This is the most common reason why people use a concordance.
HOW? Find the verse by looking up in the concordance the most striking or exclusive word in that verse. Try not to use "common" words. The more common the word, like ""the" or "God" the longer the list in the concordance, and consequently the harder the verse is to find. For instance, in John 3:16 a more striking or exclusive word would be "only begotton" or "perish".
(2) TO FIND THE DEFINITION OF ORIGINAL GREEK AND HEBREW WORDS.
Let's consider, for example, the word "accusers" in 2 Timothy 3:3. This word is found in the main concordance and alongside is found the number (1228), which refers to the Greek dictionary in the back of the concordance.
Notice that the numbers for the Old Testament Hebrew words are "regular," while the numbers for the New Testament Greek words are in italics. In the case of number 1228 in the Greek dictionary, the order of information is as follows:
1. the Greek word
2. the "transliteration" of the Greek word, or how it is written in English letters
3. how to pronounce the word
4. the etymology of the word, or where the word came from
5. the definition of the word, in this case "a TRADUCER: specifically SATAN compare 7815 O.T."
6. the different ways the word is translated into English in the King James. The translations always appear after the (Smile. In our example. we learn that this same Greek word appears in the English New Testament as "false accuser," "devil," and "slanderer."
Now take your Concordance and work through the same steps with a word from the Old Testament: You can start with the word "awe" in Psalm 4:4.
(3) TO DO WORD STUDIES, or to find all the places a particular Greek or Hebrew term is used in the Bible.
It's one thing to find all the places in the Bible where the English word "propitiation" is used. But what if this word is translated differently in different verses? The most accurate and precise way to study Bible ideas is to find all the places a particular Greek or Hebrew word is found. One way is to use a Greek or Hebrew concordance.
Or..... you can use your Strongs. Let me show you how.
Remember, all the different ways a word is translated are found at the end of each listing in the Hebrew and Greek dictionaries. So you have to work backwards by looking up the English translation words in the main concordance, and then you look for the number.
Let's use our example: 'propitiation' in 1 John 1:9.
First, note the number 2435. Then write down all of the verses where this number occurs. Where else does it occur?
ROMANS 3:25 and 1 JOHN 4:10.
Second. make a note of the different ways the word is translated. How else is it translated? Only one way:
MERCYSEAT.
Third. look back into the main concordance index:
"mercyseat.' This tells us that our search has ended. There is only one other place where this Greek word hilasteron is used: in Hebrews 9:5. So the term is found only four times in the New Testament.
(4) TO DO TOPICAL STUDIES, that is, the study of related words and ideas. When we organize everything the Bible has to say on a given subject we call it a DOCTRINE. There are any number of TOPICS in the Scriptures. To do a Topical Study simply take your Concordance and look up ALL the references where that particular word is used and write them down. Then look up the verses and begin to study them.
John Bunyan, author of Pilgram's Progress once wrote: "I dare not presume to say I know I have it right in everything; but this I can say I have endeavored to do. I have not fished in other men's water. My Bible and concordance are my only library in my writing."

The Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

The Treasury of Scripture Knowledge is a comprehensive, user-friendly and versatile concordance of cross-references, providing the reader with an essential study tool for private devotions, teaching or preaching. It differs from the Strong's concordance in that it effectively lists cross references to the Bible phrase by phrase rather than word for word. This then is sort of a topical Bible where the topics are each important phrase of a Bible verse.

Complete with over 500,000 Scripture references and parallel passages, this reference work contains the most exhaustive listing of biblical cross references available anywhere. For over a century this unique volume has been an essential tool—for the beginner wishing to be more biblically literate and for the scholar seeking greater depth and breadth of understanding.

Comprehensive:
• Reveals how Scripture interprets itself on every verse, topic and important word—from biblical promises, doctrines and historical issues to prophecies and their fulfillment
• Supplies lists of verses that shed biblical light on the intent of each passage
• Dates at the top of each page furnish a chronological framework for biblical people, places and events

User-Friendly:
• Organized according to the order of the books of the Bible, making it easier to locate any reference
• With cross references located in one place, the Treasury is easier to use than Bibles with chain references

Nave's Topical Bible
Nave's Topical Bible, the best known of all topical bibles, has been a valuable Bible-study reference and a best-seller for more than 75 years. It is a comprehensive digest of over 20,000 topics and subtopics with more than 100,000 associated Scripture references. The most significant references for each topic actually include the full text of the verse cited—saving the need to separately look up each verse.
For the pastor or teacher interested in saving hours of time but not willing to give their second best, and for anyone wanting to be challenged by what God has to say about a given subject, Nave's Topical Bible is the passport that will allow immediate and successful entry to the many points of interest.

The International Standard Bible Encyclopedia (4 Volumes Hardcover)

This practical, authoritative, and complete classic reference dictionary explains every significant word in the Bible and Apocrypha and gives detailed information on the language and literature of Bible lands, and the historical and religious environments of the people of the Bible in articles by nearly 200 scholars. This is the original four-volume edition, which includes illustrations, maps, cross-references, and indexes.

The Holman Illustrated Bible DictionaryThis Bible dictionary contains over 700 full-color photos, illustrations, charts, and maps. They are well thought-out and well researched. For example, under the topic of "Revelation" there is a 5-page chart which summarizes how each of the major interpretive views (a-mill, historic pre-mill, pre-trib pre-mill, preterist, post-mill) explains each major point of interpretation or passage (e.g., seven heads of Rev 13, Beast, bride of Christ, etc.). The maps are beautifully done and the text is conservative and information-dense. The topics covered are extremely comprehensive. This may be the best single-volume Bible Dictionary to date. 1700 pages in one volume.


BIBLE VERSES FOR YOU TO PONDER
(Neh 8:5-8 KJV)
And Ezra opened the book in the sight of all the people;
(for he was above all the people;) and when he opened it, all the people stood up:
{6} And Ezra blessed the LORD, the great God. And all the people answered,
Amen, Amen, with lifting up their hands:
and they bowed their heads, and worshipped the LORD with their faces to the ground.
{7} Also Jeshua, and Bani, and Sherebiah, Jamin, Akkub, Shabbethai, Hodijah,
Maaseiah, Kelita, Azariah, Jozabad, Hanan, Pelaiah, and the Levites,
caused the people to understand the law: and the people stood in their place.
{8} So they read in the book in the law of God distinctly,
and gave the sense{Heb=the knowledge and wisdom of it},
and caused them to understand the reading.
(Hab 2:2-4 KJV)
And the LORD answered me, and said,
Write the vision, and make it plain upon tables,
that he may run that readeth it.
{3} For the vision is yet for an appointed time,
but at the end it shall speak, and not lie:
though it tarry, wait for it; because it will surely come, it will not tarry.
{4} Behold, his soul which is lifted up is not upright in him:
but the just shall live by his faith.

(Mat 5:21-22 KJV)
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.

(Luke 24:25-27 KJV)
Then he said unto them, O fools, and slow of heart to believe all that the prophets have spoken:
{26} Ought not Christ to have suffered these things, and to enter into his glory?
{27} And beginning at Moses and all the prophets,
he expounded unto them in all the scriptures the things concerning himself.

(Luke 24:30-32 KJV)
And it came to pass, as he sat at meat with them, he took bread, and blessed it, and brake, and gave to them.
{31} And their eyes were opened, and they knew him; and he vanished out of their sight.
{32} And they said one to another, Did not our heart burn within us, while he talked with us by the way,
and while he opened to us the scriptures?

(Luke 24:44-47 KJV)
And he said unto them, These are the words which I spake unto you, while I was yet with you,
that all things must be fulfilled,
which were written in the law of Moses, and in the prophets, and in the psalms, concerning me.
{45} Then opened he their understanding, that they might understand the scriptures,
{46} And said unto them, Thus it is written, and thus it behoved Christ to suffer,
and to rise from the dead the third day:
{47} And that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in his name among all nations,
beginning at Jerusalem.

(Acts 8:30-35 KJV)
And Philip ran thither to him, and heard him read the prophet Esaias,
and said, Understandest thou what thou readest?
{31} And he said, How can I, except some man should guide me?
And he desired Philip that he would come up and sit with him.
{32} The place of the scripture which he read was this,
He was led as a sheep to the slaughter;
and like a lamb dumb before his shearer, so opened he not his mouth:
{33} In his humiliation his judgment was taken away:
and who shall declare his generation? for his life is taken from the earth.
{34} And the eunuch answered Philip, and said,
I pray thee, of whom speaketh the prophet this? of himself, or of some other man?
{35} Then Philip opened his mouth,
and began at the same scripture, and preached unto him Jesus.
---------------------
For further study, Check out these archives of past devotionals: (Note: the devotionals may be under the headings of "discussions" "files" or "pages" )

http://groups.google.com/group/ixtheus-devotionals-archive-part-2?msg=new&lnk=gcis&hl=enhttp://groups.google.com/group/ixtheus-devotionals-archive/web?hl=enhttp://groups.google.com/group/ixtheus-devotionals-archive/webhttp://groups.google.com/group/ixtheus-archives-part-3/http://groups.google.com/group/ixtheus-devotionals-archive-4

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Post  Admin Sat 18 Apr 2009, 12:03 pm

--Bible Verses to Ponder--

(Psa 1 KJV)
Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful. {2} But his delight is in the law of the LORD; and in his law doth he meditate day and night. {3} And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper. {4} The ungodly are not so: but are like the chaff which the wind driveth away. {5} Therefore the ungodly shall not stand in the judgment, nor sinners in the congregation of the righteous. {6} For the LORD knoweth the way of the righteous: but the way of the ungodly shall perish. (Deu 17:18-20 KJV)
And it shall be, when he{the earrthly king of Israel} sitteth upon the throne of his kingdom, that he shall write him a copy of this law in a book out of that which is before the priests the Levites: {19} And it shall be with him, and he shall read therein all the days of his life: that he may learn to fear the LORD his God, to keep all the words of this law and these statutes, to do them: {20} That his heart be not lifted up above his brethren, and that he turn not aside from the commandment, to the right hand, or to the left: to the end that he may prolong his days in his kingdom, he, and his children, in the midst of Israel. (Josh 1:6-9 KJV)
Be strong and of a good courage: for unto this people shalt thou divide for an inheritance the land, which I sware unto their fathers to give them. {7} Only be thou strong and very courageous, that thou mayest observe to do according to all the law, which Moses my servant commanded thee: turn not from it to the right hand or to the left, that thou mayest prosper whithersoever thou goest. {8} This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou shalt meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein: for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success. {9} Have not I commanded thee? Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the LORD thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest. (Deu 6:5-9 KJV)
And thou shalt love the LORD thy God with all thine heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy might. {6} And these words, which I command thee this day, shall be in thine heart: {7} And thou shalt teach them diligently unto thy children, and shalt talk of them when thou sittest in thine house, and when thou walkest by the way, and when thou liest down, and when thou risest up. {8} And thou shalt bind them for a sign upon thine hand, and they shall be as frontlets between thine eyes. {9} And thou shalt write them upon the posts of thy house, and on thy gates.
-----
For further study, Check out these archives of past devotionals:
http://groups.google.com/group/ixtheus-devotionals-archive-part-2?msg=new&lnk=gcis&hl=enhttp://groups.google.com/group/ixtheus-devotionals-archive/web?hl=enhttp://groups.google.com/group/ixtheus-devotionals-archive/webhttp://groups.google.com/group/ixtheus-archives-part-3/http://groups.google.com/group/ixtheus-devotionals-archive-4

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Post  Admin Sat 18 Apr 2009, 11:59 am

2a-HOW TO STUDY THE BIBLE- Old Testament Overview
The Old Testament consists of the 39 books of the original Jewish Bible, still used by Jewish people today. The word "Testament" means "covenant, agreement, contract". The word "Old" means "older, original," or the way God related to men and women before the Coming of Christ. The name "Old Testament" does NOT mean that these books are irrelevant or outdated. They in fact are used, studied and quoted by all the authors of the New Testament and can be considered source material for The New Testament. Jesus Himself quoted often from the OT books, and based His teachings on them. They are a profound source of Doctrine and should be studied for their beauty, complexity and wisdom. As is stated in this verse, we should appreciate the WHOLE BIBLE for its value: (2 Tim 3:16-17 KJV)
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{Grk=complete}, thoroughly furnished unto all good works. The Old Testament contains many observable kinds of information: The Revelation of the Creation of the World by God, The entry of Sin into the World. The FloodThe History of the Ancient World Through the eyes of God, the division of the languages of the worldThe History of the calling and God's dealings with Abraham and his decendents, the People of IsraelThe Laws given to Israel, forming their "Constitution" and duties to God and morality of lifeThe Early history of Israel, the kings and judges and captivity of Israel to BabylonThe Writings of the Prophets, dealing with confronting sin and waywardness from God, The Prophecies of The Coming Messiah, the Future Resolution of history, end times, and New heaven and earthThe Psalms, Songs of worship and praise and deep teachings about GodThe Wisdom Books, Job, Proverbs, Eccelesiastes, Song of Solomon ( Psalms should also be included in this group)-- Perhaps we could title the Bible God's Plan. The Old Testament would be Volume One: The Plan Begins. And the New Testament would be called Volume Two: The Plan Completed. The Purpose of the Old Testament was to reveal THE PERSON AND WORK OF THE COMING KING! All through the Old Testament the student of the Scriptures can find Jesus. The Subject/Theme of the Old Testament was to reveal THE KINGDOM OF GOD AND THE COMING KING. All of the Old Testament looks forward to the Messiah and His kingdom. The General Content of the Old Testament: Please open your Bible to the 'Table of Contents' as we work through this material. The Old Testament is neatly divided into three major sections.a. HISTORY, Genesis to Esther.b. WISDOM, SONG & POETRY, Job to Ecciesiastes c. PROPHECY, Isaiah to Malachi The Specific Content of the Old Testament Books. HISTORICAL BOOKS The first five books of the Old Testament are called "The Pentateuch" and are written by Moses. GENESIS is the book of beginnings or origins....of the world, the human race and especially the Hebrew nation. It contains the accounts of Creation, Adam and Eve, Noah and the flood, and the biographies of Abraham, Isaac, Jacob and Joseph. In this book we have several prophecies concerning Christ (Gen_3:15; Gen_12:3; Gen_18:18; Gen_22:18; Gen_26:4; Gen_28:14; Gen_49:10). EXODUS is the book of the deliverance of Israel from Egyptian slavery. It includes the origin of the Passover, the Red Sea crossing, and the Ten Commandments. It is worthy of notice that there are unmistakable evidences that the Egyptians have a tradition of a great exodus from their country, which could be none other than the exodus of the Hebrews. LEVITICUS is a detailed description of Jewish religious ceremonies and sacrifices. No book contains more of the very words of God. He is almost throughout the whole of it the direct speaker. This book is a prophecy of things to come, a shadow whereof the substance is Christ and his kingdom. The principles on which it is to be interpreted are laid down in the Epistle to the Hebrews. It contains in its complicated ceremonial the gospel of the grace of God. NUMBERS records the journeyings of the Israelites from Mount Sinai, where they received the Ten Commandments, to the Jordan River, just before their conquest of the Promised Land. DEUTERONOMY means 'second law.' It consists chiefly of three discourses delivered by Moses a short time before his death. (1.) a song which God had commanded Moses to write (Deut. 32:1-47); (2.) the blessings he pronounced on the separate tribes (Deut. 33); and (3.) the story of his death (Deu_32:48-52) and burial (Deu_34:1-12), probably written by Joshua.The great lawgiver stands before us, vigorous in his old age, stern in his abhorrence of evil, earnest in his zeal for God, but mellowed in all relations to earth by his nearness to heaven. JOSHUA is about the new generation of Israelites crossing the Jordan River and beginning the conquest of Canaan, or "The Promised Land" under the leadership of Joshua. This book includes the famous story of the battle of Jericho. Joshua learned to rule by obeying first; then he ruled for God, not self. God commanded Moses to write in the book (Hebrew, namely, the history of God's dealings with Israel) and rehearse it in Joshua's ears. Joshua inflicted the first decisive blow on the doomed nations; this was an earnest to him of the subsequent conquest of Canaan. JUDGES is the record of thirteen judges or popular leaders. The book records the sad result of man doing what is right in his own eyes. Main characters include Samson and Gideon. "Judges" is so called because it contains the history of the deliverance and government of Israel by the men who bore the title of the "judges." The book of Ruth originally formed part of this book, but about A.D. 450 it was separated from it and placed in the Hebrew scriptures immediately after the Song of Solomon. RUTH is a simple but beautiful love story. The history it contains refers to a period perhaps about one hundred and twenty-six years before the birth of David. Ruth is a gentile who becomes the great~grandmother of King David. Brief as this book is, and simple as is its story, it is remarkably rich in examples of faith, patience, industry, and kindness, nor less so in indications of the care which God takes of those who put their trust in him I SAMUEL records the history of Israel from the last judge, Samuel, to the death of Israel's first king, Saul.2 SAMUEL is the story of Kings David and Solomon.The authors of the books of Samuel were probably Samuel, Gad, and Nathan. Samuel penned the first twenty-four chapters of the first book. Gad, the companion of David (1Sa_22:5), continued the history thus commenced; and Nathan completed it, probably arranging the whole in the form in which we now have it (1Ch_29:29). The last four chapters of Second Samuel may be regarded as a sort of appendix recording various events, but not chronologically. These books do not contain complete histories. Frequent gaps are met with in the record, because their object is to present a history of the kingdom of God in its gradual development, and not of the events of the reigns of the successive rulers. I KINGS records the history of Israel from David's death, through the reign of Solomon, to the life of the prophet Elijah. After Solomon's death, the Jewish kingdom is divided into Israel, or "the North" and Judah, or "the South."2 KINGS is about the ongoing civil war between Israel and Judah. Both kingdoms are finally destroyed by the judgment of God.1,2 CHRONICLES are a kind of repeat of 1,2 Kings, with an emphasis on the history of the southern kingdom, Judah, from the reign of David to the Babylonian Captivity. The two books of Kings formed originally but one book in the Hebrew Scriptures. They contain the annals of the Jewish commonwealth from the accession of Solomon till the subjugation of the kingdom by Nebuchadnezzar and the Babylonians (apparently a period of about four hundred and fifty-three years). The books of Chronicles are more comprehensive in their contents than those of Kings. The latter synchronize with 1 Chr. 28 - 2 Chr. 36:21. While in the Chronicles greater prominence is given to the priestly or Levitical office, in the Kings greater prominence is given to the kingly.The authorship of these books is uncertain. There are some portions of them and of Jeremiah that are almost identical, e.g., 2 Kings 24:18 - 25 and Jer. 52; Jer_39:1-10; 40:7-41:10. There are also many undesigned coincidences between Jeremiah and Kings (2 Kings 21 - 23 and Jer_7:15; Jer_15:4; Jer_19:3, etc.), and events recorded in Kings of which Jeremiah had personal knowledge. These facts support in some degree the tradition that Jeremiah was the author of the books of Kings. But the more probable supposition is that Ezra, after the Captivity, compiled them from documents written perhaps by David, Solomon, Nathan, Gad, and Iddo, and that he arranged them in the order in which they now exist. EZRA and NEHEMIAH are about the return of the Jews to Israel after 70 years of captivity in Babylon. Ezra is about rebuilding the Jewish temple, while Nehemiah is about rebuilding the wall and city of Jerusalem. This book is the record of events occurring at the close of the Babylonian exile. It was at one time included in Nehemiah, the Jews regarding them as one volume. The book thus contains memorabilia connected with the Jews, from the decree of Cyrus (536 B.C.) to the reformation by Ezra (456 B.C.), extending over a period of about eighty years. Ezra was probably the author of this book, at least of the greater part of it (compare Ezr_7:27, Ezr_7:28; Ezr_8:1, etc.), as he was also of the Books of Chronicles, the close of which forms the opening passage of Ezra. ESTHER Esther lived in the capital of the vast Medo-Persian empire, which incorporated the provinces of Media and Persia, as well as the previous empires of Assyria and Babylon. Esther, a Jewess, was chosen by King Xerxes to be his queen. Esther is the story of how she saved her people takes place in the palace of Susa. The authorship of this book is unknown. It must have been obviously written after the death of Ahasuerus (the Xerxes of the Greeks), which took place 465 B.C.. The minute and particular account also given of many historical details makes it probable that the writer was contemporary with Mordecai and Esther. Hence we may conclude that the book was written probably about 444-434 B.C., and that the author was one of the Jews of the dispersion.his book is more purely historical than any other book of Scripture; and it has this remarkable peculiarity that the name of God does not occur in it from first to last in any form. It has, however, been well observed that "though the name of God be not in it, His finger is." The book wonderfully exhibits the providential government of God.
HEBREW WISDOM, SONG AND POETRYThe second section or division of the Old Testament is Hebrew Wisdom, Song and Poetry. All of these books were written at different times during the historical record of the first 17 books. Psalms, for example, was written by a number of people, most notably David, during the books of Kings and Chronicles.JOB, the oldest book of the Bible, tries to explain the most difficult question of life: why bad things happen to good people. Some have speculated that it was an older book that may have been compiled by Moses since Moses was "learned in all the wisdom of the Egyptians, and mighty in words and deeds" (Act_7:22). He had opportunities in Midian for obtaining the knowledge of the facts related in this book. However the authorship of the book is not given and thus altogether uncertain. As to the character of the book, it is a historical poem, one of the greatest and sublime poems in all literature. Job was a historical person, and the localities and names were real and not fictitious. It is "one of the grandest portions of the inspired Scriptures, a heavenly-replenished storehouse of comfort and instruction, the patriarchal Bible, and a precious monument of primitive theology.
PSALMS is a book of prayer and praise. The psalms are the production of various authors. "Only a portion of the Book of Psalms claims David as its author. Other inspired poets in successive generations added now one now another contribution to the sacred collection, and thus in the wisdom of Providence it more completely reflects every phase of human emotion and circumstances than it otherwise could." But it is specially to David and his contemporaries that we owe this precious book. None of the psalms can be proved to have been of a later date than the time of Ezra and Nehemiah, hence the whole collection extends over a period of about 1,000 years.

PROVERBS is a collection of moral and philosophical maxims of a wide range of subjects presented in a poetic form. This book sets forth the philosophy of practical life. It is the sign to us that the Bible does not despise common sense and discretion, but rather embraces them. It impresses upon us in the most forcible manner the value of intelligence and prudence and of a good education. The whole strength of the Hebrew language and of the sacred authority of the book is thrown upon these simple truths. It deals, too, in that refined, discriminating, careful view of the finer shades of human character so often overlooked by theologians, but so necessary to any true estimate of human life. Solomon is said to have written three thousand proverbs, and those contained in this book may be a selection from these (1Ki_4:32). In the New Testament there are thirty-five direct quotations from this book or allusions to it.

ECCLESIASTES is about how to trust God and obey his commands, even when life makes no sense and even God seems unfair. The Greek rendering of the Hebrew Koheleth, which means "Preacher." The old and traditional view of the authorship of this book attributes it to Solomon. The writer represents himself implicitly as Solomon (Ecc_1:12). The writer is a man who has sinned in giving way to selfishness and sensuality. He has paid the penalty of that sin in satiety and weariness of life, but has through all this been under the discipline of a divine education. The book shoows that he has learned the lesson which God meant to teach him. Solomon concludes by pointing out that the secret of a true life is that a man should consecrate the vigour of his youth to God.

SONG OF SOLOMON is a love story. Evidences, both internal and external, fairly establish the traditional view that it is the product of Solomon's pen. It is an allegorical poem setting forth the mutual love of Christ and the Church, under the emblem of the bridegroom and the bride.
Continued on part b....
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Post  Admin Tue 14 Apr 2009, 9:16 pm

The Resurrection and Ascension of Jesus Christ John 20:1-21 (KJV)

The first day of the week cometh Mary Magdalene early, when it was yet dark, unto the sepulchre, and seeth the stone taken away from the sepulchre. {2} Then she runneth, and cometh to Simon Peter, and to the other disciple, whom Jesus loved, and saith unto them, They have taken away the Lord out of the sepulchre, and we know not where they have laid him. {3} Peter therefore went forth, and that other disciple, and came to the sepulchre. {4} So they ran both together: and the other disciple did outrun Peter, and came first to the sepulchre. {5} And he stooping down, and looking in, saw the linen clothes lying; yet went he not in. {6} Then cometh Simon Peter following him, and went into the sepulchre, and seeth the linen clothes lie, {7} And the napkin, that was about his head, not lying with the linen clothes, but wrapped together in a place by itself. {8} Then went in also that other disciple, which came first to the sepulchre, and he saw, and believed. {9} For as yet they knew not the scripture, that he must rise again from the dead. {10} Then the disciples went away again unto their own home. {11} But Mary stood without at the sepulchre weeping: and as she wept, she stooped down, and looked into the sepulchre, {12} And seeth two angels in white sitting, the one at the head, and the other at the feet, where the body of Jesus had lain. {13} And they say unto her, Woman, why weepest thou? She saith unto them, Because they have taken away my Lord, and I know not where they have laid him. {14} And when she had thus said, she turned herself back, and saw Jesus standing, and knew not that it was Jesus. {15} Jesus saith unto her, Woman, why weepest thou? whom seekest thou? She, supposing him to be the gardener, saith unto him, Sir, if thou have borne him hence, tell me where thou hast laid him, and I will take him away. {16} Jesus saith unto her, Mary. She turned herself, and saith unto him, Rabboni; which is to say, Master. {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. {18} Mary Magdalene came and told the disciples that she had seen the Lord, and that he had spoken these things unto her. {19} Then the same day at evening, being the first day of the week, when the doors were shut where the disciples were assembled for fear of the Jews, came Jesus and stood in the midst, and saith unto them, Peace be unto you. {20} And when he had so said, he showed unto them his hands and his side. Then were the disciples glad, when they saw the Lord. {21} Then said Jesus to them again, Peace be unto you: as my Father hath sent me, even so send I you.
Luke 24:1-53 (KJV)
Now upon the first day of the week, very early in the morning, they came unto the sepulchre, bringing the spices which they had prepared, and certain others with them. {2} And they found the stone rolled away from the sepulchre. {3} And they entered in, and found not the body of the Lord Jesus. {4} And it came to pass, as they were much perplexed thereabout, behold, two men stood by them in shining garments: {5} And as they were afraid, and bowed down their faces to the earth, they said unto them, Why seek ye the living among the dead? {6} He is not here, but is risen: remember how he spake unto you when he was yet in Galilee, {7} Saying, The Son of man must be delivered into the hands of sinful men, and be crucified, and the third day rise again. {8} And they remembered his words, {9} And returned from the sepulchre, and told all these things unto the eleven, and to all the rest. {10} It was Mary Magdalene, and Joanna, and Mary the mother of James, and other women that were with them, which told these things unto the apostles. {11} And their words seemed to them as idle tales, and they believed them not. {12} Then arose Peter, and ran unto the sepulchre; and stooping down, he beheld the linen clothes laid by themselves, and departed, wondering in himself at that which was come to pass. {13} And, behold, two of them went that same day to a village called Emmaus, which was from Jerusalem about threescore furlongs. {14} And they talked together of all these things which had happened. {15} And it came to pass, that, while they communed together and reasoned, Jesus himself drew near, and went with them. {16} But their eyes were holden that they should not know him. {17} And he said unto them, What manner of communications are these that ye have one to another, as ye walk, and are sad? {18} And the one of them, whose name was Cleopas, answering said unto him, Art thou only a stranger in Jerusalem, and hast not known the things which are come to pass there in these days? {19} And he said unto them, What things? And they said unto him, Concerning Jesus of Nazareth, which was a prophet mighty in deed and word before God and all the people: {20} And how the chief priests and our rulers delivered him to be condemned to death, and have crucified him. {21} But we trusted that it had been he which should have redeemed Israel: and beside all this, to day is the third day since these things were done. {22} Yea, and certain women also of our company made us astonished, which were early at the sepulchre; {23} And when they found not his body, they came, saying, that they had also seen a vision of angels, which said that he was alive. {24} And certain of them which were with us went to the sepulchre, and found it even so as the women had said: but him they saw not. {25} Then he said unto them, O fools, and slow of heart to believe all that the prophets have spoken: {26} Ought not Christ to have suffered these things, and to enter into his glory? {27} And beginning at Moses and all the prophets, he expounded unto them in all the scriptures the things concerning himself. {28} And they drew nigh unto the village, whither they went: and he made as though he would have gone further. {29} But they constrained him, saying, Abide with us: for it is toward evening, and the day is far spent. And he went in to tarry with them. {30} And it came to pass, as he sat at meat with them, he took bread, and blessed it, and brake, and gave to them. {31} And their eyes were opened, and they knew him; and he vanished out of their sight. {32} And they said one to another, Did not our heart burn within us, while he talked with us by the way, and while he opened to us the scriptures? {33} And they rose up the same hour, and returned to Jerusalem, and found the eleven gathered together, and them that were with them, {34} Saying, The Lord is risen indeed, and hath appeared to Simon. {35} And they told what things were done in the way, and how he was known of them in breaking of bread. {36} And as they thus spake, Jesus himself stood in the midst of them, and saith unto them, Peace be unto you. {37} But they were terrified and affrighted, and supposed that they had seen a spirit. {38} And he said unto them, Why are ye troubled? and why do thoughts arise in your hearts? {39} Behold my hands and my feet, that it is I myself: handle me, and see; for a spirit hath not flesh and bones, as ye see me have. {40} And when he had thus spoken, he showed them his hands and his feet. {41} And while they yet believed not for joy, and wondered, he said unto them, Have ye here any meat? {42} And they gave him a piece of a broiled fish, and of an honeycomb. {43} And he took it, and did eat before them. {44} And he said unto them, These are the words which I spake unto you, while I was yet with you, that all things must be fulfilled, which were written in the law of Moses, and in the prophets, and in the psalms, concerning me. {45} Then opened he their understanding, that they might understand the scriptures, {46} And said unto them, Thus it is written, and thus it behoved Christ to suffer, and to rise from the dead the third day: {47} And that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in his name among all nations, beginning at Jerusalem. {48} And ye are witnesses of these things. {49} And, behold, I send the promise of my Father upon you: but tarry ye in the city of Jerusalem, until ye be endued with power from on high. {50} And he led them out as far as to Bethany, and he lifted up his hands, and blessed them. {51} And it came to pass, while he blessed them, he was parted from them, and carried up into heaven. {52} And they worshipped him, and returned to Jerusalem with great joy: {53} And were continually in the temple, praising and blessing God. Amen.
John 2:18-22 (KJV) Then answered the Jews and said unto him, What sign showest thou unto us, seeing that thou doest these things? {19} Jesus answered and said unto them, Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up. {20} Then said the Jews, Forty and six years was this temple in building, and wilt thou rear it up in three days? {21} But he spake of the temple of his body. {22} When therefore he was risen from the dead, his disciples remembered that he had said this unto them; and they believed the scripture, and the word which Jesus had said.
Acts 1:1-11 (KJV) The former treatise have I made, O Theophilus, of all that Jesus began both to do and teach, {2} Until the day in which he was taken up, after that he through the Holy Ghost had given commandments unto the apostles whom he had chosen: {3} To whom also he showed himself alive after his passion by many infallible proofs, being seen of them forty days, and speaking of the things pertaining to the kingdom of God: {4} And, being assembled together with them, commanded them that they should not depart from Jerusalem, but wait for the promise of the Father, which, saith he, ye have heard of me. {5} For John truly baptized with water; but ye shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost not many days hence. {6} When they therefore were come together, they asked of him, saying, Lord, wilt thou at this time restore again the kingdom to Israel? {7} And he said unto them, It is not for you to know the times or the seasons, which the Father hath put in his own power. {8} But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth. {9} And when he had spoken these things, while they beheld, he was taken up; and a cloud received him out of their sight. {10} And while they looked stedfastly toward heaven as he went up, behold, two men stood by them in white apparel; {11} Which also said, Ye men of Galilee, why stand ye gazing up into heaven? this same Jesus, which is taken up from you into heaven, shall so come in like manner as ye have seen him go into heaven.
1 Cor 15:3-9 (KJV) For I delivered unto you first of all that which I also received, how that Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures; {4} And that he was buried, and that he rose again the third day according to the scriptures: {5} And that he was seen of Cephas, then of the twelve: {6} After that, he was seen of above five hundred brethren at once; of whom the greater part remain unto this present, but some are fallen asleep. {7} After that, he was seen of James; then of all the apostles. {8} And last of all he was seen of me also, as of one born out of due time. {9} For I am the least of the apostles, that am not meet to be called an apostle, because I persecuted the church of God. Acts 2:14, 22b-28 (KJV) {14} But Peter, standing up with the eleven, lifted up his voice, and said unto them, Ye men of Judaea, and all ye that dwell at Jerusalem, be this known unto you, and hearken to my words:...{22} Jesus of Nazareth, a man approved of God among you by miracles and wonders and signs, which God did by him in the midst of you, as ye yourselves also know: {23} Him, being delivered by the determinate counsel and foreknowledge of God, ye have taken, and by wicked hands have crucified and slain: {24} Whom God hath raised up, having loosed the pains of death: because it was not possible that he should be holden of it. {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: {26} 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. {28} Thou hast made known to me the ways of life; thou shalt make me full of joy with thy countenance.
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For further study, Check out these archives of past devotionals: (Note: the devotionals may be under the headings of "discussions" "files" or "pages" )
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Post  Admin Tue 14 Apr 2009, 8:48 pm

The Resurrection and the Rapture RESURRECTION: CAUSING THE DEAD TO LIVE AGAIN. JESUS- THE AUTHOR AND FIRSTBORN [=Most excellent; most distinguished or exalted] OF THE RESURRECTION (Mark 15:44-47 KJV)
And Pilate marvelled if he {Jesus} were already dead: and calling unto him the centurion, he asked him whether he had been any while dead. {45} And when he knew it of the centurion, he gave the body to Joseph. {46} And he bought fine linen, and took him down, and wrapped him in the linen, and laid him in a sepulchre which was hewn out of a rock, and rolled a stone unto the door of the sepulchre. {47} And Mary Magdalene and Mary the mother of Joses beheld where he was laid. (Mark 16:1-6 KJV) And when the sabbath was past, Mary Magdalene, and Mary the mother of James, and Salome, had bought sweet spices, that they might come and anoint him. {2} And very early in the morning the first day of the week, they came unto the sepulchre at the rising of the sun. {3} And they said among themselves, Who shall roll us away the stone from the door of the sepulchre? {4} And when they looked, they saw that the stone was rolled away: for it was very great. {5} And entering into the sepulchre, they saw a young man sitting on the right side, clothed in a long white garment; and they were affrighted. {6} And he saith unto them, Be not affrighted: Ye seek Jesus of Nazareth, which was crucified: he is risen; he is not here: behold the place where they laid him.
JESUS TEACHES ABOUT THE RESURRECTION (Luke 20:34-38 KJV)
And Jesus answering said unto them, The children of this world marry, and are given in marriage: {35} But they which shall be accounted worthy to obtain that world, and the resurrection from the dead, neither marry, nor are given in marriage: {36} Neither can they die any more: for they are equal unto the angels; and are the children of God, being the children of the resurrection. {37} Now that the dead are raised, even Moses showed at the bush, when he calleth the Lord the God of Abraham, and the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob. {38} For he is not a God of the dead, but of the living: for all live unto him. (John 11:25-26 KJV) Jesus said unto her, I am the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live: {26} And whosoever liveth and believeth in me shall never die. Believest thou this? (John 5:21 KJV) For as the Father raiseth up the dead, and quickeneth them; even so the Son quickeneth{Grk=gives life to} whom he will. (John 6:39-40 KJV) And this is the Father's will which hath sent me, that of all which he hath given me I should lose nothing, but should raise it up again at the last day. {40} And this is the will of him that sent me, that every one which seeth the Son, and believeth on him, may have everlasting life: and I will raise him up at the last day. (1 Cor 15:20-23 KJV) But now is Christ risen from the dead, and become the firstfruits of them that slept. {21} For since by man came death, by man came also the resurrection of the dead. {22} For as in Adam all die, even so in Christ shall all be made alive. {23} But every man in his own order: Christ the firstfruits; afterward they that are Christ's at his coming.
OLD TESTAMENT REFERENCES TO RESURRECTION Job 19:25-27 (KJV)
For I know that my redeemer liveth, and that he shall stand at the latter day upon the earth: {26} And though after my skin worms destroy this body, yet in my flesh shall I see God: {27} Whom I shall see for myself, and mine eyes shall behold, and not another; though my reins{H=interior organs} be consumed within me. Isa 26:19 (KJV) Thy dead men shall live, together with my dead body shall they arise. Awake and sing, ye that dwell in dust: for thy dew is as the dew of herbs, and the earth shall cast out the dead. Dan 12:2-3 (KJV) And many of them that sleep in the dust of the earth shall awake, some to everlasting life, and some to shame and everlasting contempt. {3} And they that be wise shall shine as the brightness of the firmament; and they that turn many to righteousness as the stars for ever and ever.
MORE NEW TESTAMENT TEACHINGS ON RESURRECTION
John 11:23-26 (KJV) Jesus saith unto her, Thy brother shall rise again. {24} Martha saith unto him, I know that he shall rise again in the resurrection at the last day. {25} Jesus said unto her, I am the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live: {26} And whosoever liveth and believeth in me shall never die. Believest thou this? 1 Cor 15:12-23 (KJV) Now if Christ be preached that he rose from the dead, how say some among you that there is no resurrection of the dead? {13} But if there be no resurrection of the dead, then is Christ not risen: {14} And if Christ be not risen, then is our preaching vain, and your faith is also vain. {15} Yea, and we are found false witnesses of God; because we have testified of God that he raised up Christ: whom he raised not up, if so be that the dead rise not. {16} For if the dead rise not, then is not Christ raised: {17} And if Christ be not raised, your faith is vain; ye are yet in your sins. {18} Then they also which are fallen asleep in Christ are perished. {19} If in this life only we have hope in Christ, we are of all men most miserable. {20} But now is Christ risen from the dead, and become the firstfruits of them that slept. {21} For since by man came death, by man came also the resurrection of the dead. {22} For as in Adam all die, even so in Christ shall all be made alive. {23} But every man in his own order: Christ the firstfruits; afterward they that are Christ's at his coming. (1 Cor 15:40-50 KJV) There are also celestial bodies, and bodies terrestrial: but the glory of the celestial is one, and the glory of the terrestrial is another. {41} There is one glory of the sun, and another glory of the moon, and another glory of the stars: for one star differeth from another star in glory. {42} So also is the resurrection of the dead. It is sown in corruption; it is raised in incorruption: {43} It is sown in dishonour; it is raised in glory: it is sown in weakness; it is raised in power: {44} It is sown a natural body; it is raised a spiritual body. There is a natural body, and there is a spiritual body. {45} And so it is written, The first man Adam was made a living soul; the last Adam was made a quickening spirit. {46} Howbeit that was not first which is spiritual, but that which is natural; and afterward that which is spiritual. {47} The first man is of the earth, earthy: the second man is the Lord from heaven. {48} As is the earthy, such are they also that are earthy: and as is the heavenly, such are they also that are heavenly. {49} And as we have borne the image of the earthy, we shall also bear the image of the heavenly. {50} Now this I say, brethren, that flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God; neither doth corruption inherit incorruption.

THE RAPTURE:THE EVENT IN WHICH CHRIST WILL RESURRECT THE DEAD BELIEVERS,
PLUS CATCH AWAY THE LIVING BELIEVERS TO BE WITH HIM FOREVER.

(Gen 5:24 KJV) And Enoch walked with God: and he was not; for God took him{H=seized him and carried him away}. (Isa 26:19-21 KJV) Thy dead men shall live, together with my dead body shall they arise. Awake and sing, ye that dwell in dust: for thy dew is as the dew of herbs, and the earth shall cast out the dead. {20} Come, my people, enter thou into thy chambers, and shut thy doors about thee: hide thyself as it were for a little moment, until the indignation be overpast. {21} For, behold, the LORD cometh out of his place to punish the inhabitants of the earth for their iniquity: the earth also shall disclose her blood, and shall no more cover her slain. (1 Cor 15:51-58 KJV) {51} Behold, I show you a mystery; We shall not all sleep{G=be resting in death}, but we shall all be changed, {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. {53} For this corruptible must put on incorruption, and this mortal must put on immortality. {54} So when this corruptible shall have put on incorruption, and this mortal shall have put on immortality, then shall be brought to pass the saying that is written, Death is swallowed up in victory. {55} O death, where is thy sting? O grave, where is thy victory? {56} The sting of death is sin; and the strength of sin is the law. {57} But thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. {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. (1 Th 4:13-18 KJV) 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. (1 Th 5:1-11 KJV) But of the times and the seasons, brethren, ye have no need that I write unto you. {2} For yourselves know perfectly that the day of the Lord so cometh as a thief in the night. {3} For when they shall say, Peace and safety; then sudden destruction cometh upon them, as travail upon a woman with child; and they shall not escape. {4} But ye, brethren, are not in darkness, that that day should overtake you as a thief. {5} Ye are all the children of light, and the children of the day: we are not of the night, nor of darkness. {6} Therefore let us not sleep, as do others; but let us watch and be sober. {7} For they that sleep sleep in the night; and they that be drunken are drunken in the night. {8} But let us, who are of the day, be sober, putting on the breastplate of faith and love; and for an helmet, the hope of salvation. {9} For God hath not appointed us to wrath, but to obtain salvation by our Lord Jesus Christ, {10} Who died for us, that, whether we wake or sleep, we should live together with him. {11} Wherefore comfort yourselves together, and edify one another, even as also ye do. (Rev 22:20-21 KJV) He {Jesus} which testifieth these things saith, Surely I come quickly. Amen. Even so, come, Lord Jesus. {21} The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. Amen.
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For further study, Check out these archives of past devotionals: (Note: the devotionals may be under the headings of "discussions" "files" or "pages" )
http://groups.google.com/group/ixtheus-devotionals-archive-part-2?msg=new&lnk=gcis&hl=enhttp://groups.google.com/group/ixtheus-devotionals-archive/web?hl=enhttp://groups.google.com/group/ixtheus-devotionals-archive/webhttp://groups.google.com/group/ixtheus-archives-part-3/http://groups.google.com/group/ixtheus-devotionals-archive-4
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Bro Bob   IXTHEUS CHRISTIAN GROWTH Empty #1a-How to Study the Bible--Memorize Scripture

Post  Admin Tue 07 Apr 2009, 2:10 pm

#1a-How to Study the Bible--Memorize Scripture

Memorizing Scripture has many benefits. In Joshua 1:8 the Lord tells Joshua,
(Josh 1:8 KJV)
This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou shalt meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein: for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success.
Our spiritual prosperity will be greatly affected by our diligence to meditate upon and obey God's word. Memorization is a means to meditation. As we memorize, Scripture, we can then meditate on it and apply it to our lives.
15 reasons to memorize Scripture:

1) HELPING IN AVOIDING SIN
(Psa 119:11 KJV)
Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee.
2)
COMFORT IN AFFLICTION
(Psa 119:50 KJV) This is my comfort in my affliction: for thy word hath quickened me.

3)SPIRITUAL LIFE
(Psa 119:93-94 KJV) I will never forget thy precepts: for with them thou hast quickened me.{94} I am thine, save me; for I have sought thy precepts.
4) WISDOM(Psa 119:98-100 KJV) Thou through thy commandments hast made me wiser than mine enemies: for they are ever with me. {99} I have more understanding than all my teachers: for thy testimonies are my meditation. {100} I understand more than the ancients, because I keep thy precepts.
5) DELIGHT(Psa 119:103-104 KJV) How sweet are thy words unto my taste! yea, sweeter than honey to my mouth! {104} Through thy precepts I get understanding: therefore I hate every false way.
6) GUIDANCE(Psa 119:105-106 KJV) NUN. Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path. {106} I have sworn, and I will perform it, that I will keep thy righteous judgments.
7) HOPE(Psa 119:114-115 KJV) Thou art my hiding place and my shield: I hope in thy word. {115} Depart from me, ye evildoers: for I will keep the commandments of my God.
8) PEACE(Psa 119:164-165 KJV) Seven times a day do I praise thee because of thy righteous judgments. {165} Great peace have they which love thy law: and nothing shall offend them.
9) A HEART OF WORSHIP (Psa 119:171-172 KJV) My lips shall utter praise, when thou hast taught me thy statutes. {172} My tongue shall speak of thy word: for all thy commandments are righteousness.
10) FREEDOM(John 8:31-32 KJV) Then said Jesus to those Jews which believed on him, If ye continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed; {32} And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.
11) MAKES SCRIPTURE READLIY AVAILABE TO TEACH, WITNESS TO, ENCOURAGE OR REPROVE OTHERS (2 Tim 3:16-17 KJV) 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, thoroughly furnished unto all good works.
12) INCREASED FAITH(Rom 10:17 KJV) So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.
13) VICTORY OVER TEMPTATION(Mat 4:3-4 KJV) And when the tempter came to him, he said, If thou be the Son of God, command that these stones be made bread. {4} But he answered and said, It is written, Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God.
(This is from the account of Jesus' temptation in the wilderness. Jesus answered each of Satan's temptations by saying, 'It is written...' then quoting a Scripture from memory.)
14) CONFIDENCE IN PRAYER(1 John 5:13-15 KJV) 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. 15) TO IMITATE JESUS EXAMPLE-Jesus often quoted Scripture, for example,
WHEN TEACHING (Mat 5:21-22 KJV) Ye have heard that it was said by them of old time, "Thou shalt not kill; (Ex 20:13)and whosoever shall kill shall be in danger of the judgment: " (Gen 9:6){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.
WHEN TEMPTED (Mat 4:3-4 KJV) And when the tempter came to him, he said, If thou be the Son of God, command that these stones be made bread. {4} But he answered and said, It is written, "Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God." (Deut 8:3)
WHEN CONFRONTING THE PHARISEES (Mat 9:11-13 KJV) And when the Pharisees saw it, they said unto his disciples, Why eateth your Master with publicans and sinners? {12} But when Jesus heard that, he said unto them, They that be whole need not a physician, but they that are sick. {13} But go ye and learn what that meaneth," I will have mercy, and not sacrifice: "
(Hos 6:6)for I am not come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance. AND WHEN EXPLAINING THE PARABLES TO THE DISCIPLES (Mark 4:11-12 KJV) And he said unto them, Unto you it is given to know the mystery of the kingdom of God: but unto them that are without, all these things are done in parables: {12} "That seeing they may see, and not perceive; and hearing they may hear, and not understand;" (Deut 29:4) lest at any time they should be converted, and their sins should be forgiven them. (Isa 29:10)
------------------------------------
For further study, Check out these archives of past devotionals: (Note: the devotionals may be under the headings of "discussions" "files" or "pages" )
http://groups.google.com/group/ixtheus-devotionals-archive-part-2?msg=new&lnk=gcis&hl=enhttp://groups.google.com/group/ixtheus-devotionals-archive/web?hl=enhttp://groups.google.com/group/ixtheus-devotionals-archive/webhttp://groups.google.com/group/ixtheus-archives-part-3/http://groups.google.com/group/ixtheus-devotionals-archive-4
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Post  Admin Tue 31 Mar 2009, 7:35 pm

continued......
Methods of Bible Study
a. Select a Bible version for study that is faithful to the meaning contained in languages in which the Bible originally was written. The King James Bible is the Bible recommeded as a basis for study, owing to its completeness and closeness to the original Greek and Hebrew. The words and sentence structures are sometimes awkward to modern readers, however these peculiarities reflect the conformity to the Hebrew and Greek sentence structures and the English meanings of the words in the 1600's when the translation was made. Modern translations can lose this richness of detail. In addition, many of the classic Bible study helps of the past(ie, concordances, Bible dcitionaries and encyclopedias, Greek and Hebrew translation helpsmanners and customs studies) are keyed to the King James Version. b. Choose a definite plan of study, try to stay focussed on an approach you are working on until you have mastered it, then try another. The following are suggested:
(1) Book-by-book analysis of the message
(2) Verse-by-verse method
(3) Study that seeks a biblical solution to a specific life problem, biblical satisfaction for a specific need, or a biblical answer to a specific question
(4) Topical study (faith, love, second coming, and others)
(5) Word study
(6) Biographical study c. Seek to grasp the simple, most obvious meaning of the biblical passage being studied. d. Seek to discover the underlying major themes of Scripture as found in individual texts, passages, and books. Two basic, related themes run throughout Scripture:(1) The person and work of Jesus Christ; and (2) the authority of God's Word, the fall of man, the first and second advents of Christ, the exoneration of God and His law, and the restoration of the divine plan for the universe. These themes are to be drawn from the totality of Scripture and not imposed on it. e. Recognize that the Bible is its own interpreter and that the meaning of words, texts, and passages is best determined by diligently comparing scripture with scripture. f. Study the "context" of the passage under consideration, that is by relating it to the sentences and paragraphs immediately preceding and following it. Try to relate the ideas of the passage to the line of thought of the entire Bible book.
g. As far as possible ascertain the historical circumstances in which the passage was written by the biblical writers under the guidance of the Holy Spirit.
h. Determine the literary type the author is using. Some biblical material is composed of parables, proverbs, allegories, psalms, and apocalyptic prophecies. i. Let the Biblical text teach you, and not you trying to make the text conform to your preconceived ideas. Always try to understand the text by examining a few verses before and a few verses after the verse you are examining. This is called, "understanding a verse in its context". j. Take note of grammar and sentence construction in order to discover the author's meaning. Study the key words of the passage by comparing their use in other parts of the Bible by means of a concordance and with the help of biblical lexicons and dictionaries.
k. In connection with the study of the biblical text, explore the historical and cultural factors. Archaeology, anthropology, and history may contribute to understanding the meaning of the text. m. Various commentaries and secondary helps such as scholarly works may be consulted to see how others have dealt with the passage. Then carefully evaluate the different viewpoints expressed from the standpoint of Scripture as a whole.
Interpreting Prophetic Passages In interpreting prophecy keep in mind that:
(1) The Bible claims God's power to predict the future (Isa 46:10).
(2) Prophecy has a moral purpose. It was not written merely to satisfy curiosity about the future. Some of the purposes of prophecy are to strengthen faith (John 14:29) and to promote holy living and readiness for the Advent (Matt 24:44; Rev 22:7, 10, 11). (John 14:29 KJV) And now I have told you before it come to pass, that, when it is come to pass, ye might believe. (3) The focus of much prophecy is on Christ (both His first and second advents), the church, and the end-time.
(4) The norms for interpreting prophecy are found within the Bible itself: The Bible notes time prophecies and their historical fulfillments; the New Testament cites specific fulfillments of Old Testament prophecies about the Messiah; and the Old Testament itself presents individuals and events as types of the Messiah.
(5) In the New Testament application of Old Testament prophecies, some literal names become spiritual: for example, Israel sometimes represents the church, Babylon apostate religion, etc.
(6) There are two general types of prophetic writings: nonapocalyptic prophecy as found in Isaiah and Jeremiah, and apocalyptic prophecy as found in Daniel and the Revelation. These differing types have different characteristics:
(a) Nonapocalyptic prophecy addresses God's people; apocalyptic is more universal in scope.
(b) Nonapocalyptic prophecy often is conditional in nature, setting forth to God's people the alternatives of blessing for obedience and curses for disobedience; apocalyptic emphasizes the sovereignty of God and His control over history.
(c) Nonapocalyptic prophecy often leaps from the local crisis to the end-time day of the Lord; apocalyptic prophecy presents the course of history from the time of the prophet to the end of the world.
(d) Time prophecies in nonapocalyptic prophecy generally are long, for example, 400 years of Israel's servitude (Gen. 15:13) and 70 years of Babylonian captivity (Jer. 25:12). Time prophecies in apocalyptic prophecy generally are phrased in short terms, for example, 10 days (Rev. 2:10) or 42 months (Rev. 13:5). Apocalyptic time periods stand symbolically for longer periods of actual time.
(7) Apocalyptic prophecy is can be highly symbolic as well as literal, and should be interpreted accordingly. In interpreting symbols, the following methods may be used:
(a) Look for interpretations (explicit or implicit) within the passage itself (for example, Dan. 8:20, 21; Rev. 1:20).
(b) Look for interpretations elsewhere in the book or in other writings by the same author.
(c) Using a concordance, study the use of symbols in other parts of Scripture.
(d) A study of ancient manners and customs of Bible lands and peoples may throw light on the meaning of some symbols used in scripture, although what is revealed about these things in the scriptures takes precedence over secular sources of information. (8) The literary structure of a book often is an aid to interpreting it. The parallel nature of Daniel's prophecies is an example. Psalm 119 is divided into clusters of 8 verses each beginning with the same letter of the Hebrew alphabet. Many more examples could be cited.
Comparing Parallel Passages Parallel accounts in Scripture sometimes present differences in detail and emphasis while covering the same events. (for example, cf. Matt 21:33, 34; Mark 12:1-11; and Luke 20:9-18; or 2 Kings 18-20 with 2 Chron. 32). When studying such passages, first examine them carefully to be sure that the parallels actually are referring to the same historical event. For example, many of Jesus' parables may have been given on different occasions to different audiences and with different wording, resulting in differing details.
In cases where there appear to be differences in parallel accounts, one should recognize that the total message of the Bible is the synthesis of all of its parts. Each book or writer communicates that which the Spirit has led him to write. Each makes his own special contribution to the richness, diversity, and variety of Scripture. "Holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Spirit" (2 Pet 1:21) is self-explanatory. When parallel passages seem to indicate discrepancy or contradiction, look for the underlying harmony. Keep in mind that dissimilarities may be the result of differing emphases and choice of materials of various authors who wrote under the inspiration and guidance of the Holy Spirit for different audiences under different circumstances.
It may prove impossible to reconcile minor dissimilarities in detail which may be irrelevant to the main and clear message of the passage. In some cases judgment may have to be suspended until more information and better evidence are available to resolve a seeming discrepancy.
Historical Passages of the Bible The Scriptures record that God accepted persons whose experiences and statements were not in harmony with the spiritual principles of the Bible as a whole. For example, we may cite incidents relating to the use of alcohol, polygamy, divorce, and slavery. Although condemnation of such deeply ingrained social customs is not explicit, God did not necessarily endorse or approve all that He permitted and bore with in the lives of the patriarchs and in Israel. Jesus made this clear in His statement with regard to divorce (Matt 19:4-6, 8).
The spirit of the Scriptures is one of restoration. God works patiently to elevate fallen humanity from the depths of sin to the divine ideal. Consequently, we must not accept as models the actions of sinful men as recorded in the Bible in historical passages, but defer to passages which deal directly with sins and doctrinal issues.
The Scriptures represent the unfolding of God's revelation to man. Jesus' Sermon on the Mount, for example, enlarges, explains and expands certain Old Testament concepts. Christ Himself and His teachings are the ultimate revelation of God's mind and character to humanity (Heb. 1:1-3).
While there is an overarching unity in the Bible from Genesis to Revelation, and while all Scripture is equally inspired, God chose to reveal Himself to and through human individuals and to meet them where they were in terms of spiritual and intellectual endowments. God Himself does not change, but He progressively unfolded His revelation to men as they were able to grasp it (John 16:12; ). Every experience or statement of Scripture is a divinely inspired record, but not every statement or experience is necessarily normative for Christian behavior today. Historical passages should not necessarily be used for doctrine, and both the spirit and the letter of Scripture must be examined to understand God's intent. (1 Cor. 10:6-13; ).
Apply the Lessons to Your Life As the final goal, make application of the text. Ask such questions as, "What is the message and purpose God intends to convey through Scripture?" "What meaning does this text have for me?" "How does it apply to my situation and circumstances today?" In doing so, recognize that although many biblical passages had local significance, nonetheless they contain timeless principles applicable to every age and culture. Conclusion The Bible, with its God-given truths expressed in the language of men, presents the revelation of God's intentions for the lives of men. The nature of Christ, who was the Son of God and the Son of man, is the full expression of this revelation. Thus it is true of the Bible, as it was of Christ, that "the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us." John 1:14. As it is impossible for those who do not accept Christ's divinity to understand the purpose of His incarnation, it is also impossible for those who see the Bible merely as a human book to understand its message, however careful and rigorous their methods. To consider the Bible as only "literature", ignores its Divine Origin and that it is a Living Book full of the Power to change the lives of men.
Heb 4:12 (KJV) For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. 2Ti 2:15 (KJV+) Study{G=make a diligent effort} to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman{G=a toiler, a teacher} that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing{G=to dissect cleanly, correctly} the word of truth.
--------------------
For further study, Check out these archives of past devotionals: (Note: the devotionals may be under the headings of "discussions" "files" or "pages" )
http://groups.google.com/group/ixtheus-devotionals-archive-part-2?msg=new&lnk=gcis&hl=enhttp://groups.google.com/group/ixtheus-devotionals-archive/web?hl=enhttp://groups.google.com/group/ixtheus-devotionals-archive/webhttp://groups.google.com/group/ixtheus-archives-part-3/http://groups.google.com/group/ixtheus-devotionals-archive-4
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Post  Admin Tue 31 Mar 2009, 7:34 pm

The Authority of the Bible

(1) The sixty-six books of the Old and New Testaments are the clear, infallible revelation of God's thoughts, will and His salvation. The Bible is the Word of God, and it alone is the standard by which all teaching and experience must be tested
(2 Tim. 3:15, 17; Ps. 119:105; Prov. 30:5, 6; Isa. 8:20; John 17:17; 2 Thess. 3:14; Heb. 4:12).(2 Tim 3:15-17 KJV) 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, thoroughly furnished unto all good works. (Heb 4:12 KJV) For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.

(2) Scripture is an authentic, reliable record of history and God's acts in history. It also provides a theological interpretation of those acts. The supernatural acts revealed in Scripture are historically true. For example, chapters 1-11 of Genesis are a factual account of historical events.
(3) The Bible is not like other books. It is an indivisible blend of the divine and the human. It records of many details of secular history as well as some information about peoples and places unknown to historians and archeologists. However, after perhaps decades of searching and believing that the Biblical reocord is true, archeologists have always found cities and civilizations in the Holy Land to be just as the Bible described them.
(4) Human reason is subject to the Bible, not equal to or above it. Presuppositions regarding the Scriptures must be in harmony with the claims of the Scriptures and subject to correction by them. God intends that human reason be used to its fullest extent, but within the context and under the authority of His Word rather than independent of it. (1 Cor 2:1-5 KJV) And I, brethren, when I came to you, came not with excellency of speech or of wisdom, declaring unto you the testimony of God.
{2} For I determined not to know any thing among you, save Jesus Christ, and him crucified.
{3}And I was with you in weakness, and in fear, and in much trembling.
{4} And my speech and my preaching was not with enticing words of man's wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power:
{5} That your faith should not stand in the wisdom of men, but in the power of God.

(5) When properly understood, the statements in the scriptures regarding nature and the universe are true and dont need to be altered or apologized for. The revelation of God in all nature is in harmony with the written Word, and is to be interpreted in the light of Scripture. Principles for Interpreting Scripture
a. The Holy Spirit enables the believer to accept, understand, and apply the Bible to one's own life as he seeks divine power to render obedience to all scriptural requirements and to appropriate personally all Bible promises. Only those following the light already received can hope to receive further illumination of the Spirit.(John 16:13-14 KJV) 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 show you things to come. {14} He shall glorify me: for he shall receive of mine, and shall show it unto you.
b. Scripture cannot be correctly interpreted without the aid of the Holy Spirit, for it is the Spirit who enables the believer to understand and apply Scripture. Therefore, any study of the Word should begin with a request for the Holy Spirit's guidance and illumination. (Psa 119:18 KJV) Open thou mine eyes, that I may behold wondrous things out of thy law. (Eph 1:15-18 KJV) Wherefore I also, after I heard of your faith in the Lord Jesus, and love unto all the saints, {16} Cease not to give thanks for you, making mention of you in my prayers; {17} That the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give unto you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of him: {18} The eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that ye may know what is the hope of his calling, and what the riches of the glory of his inheritance in the saints,
c. Those who come to the study of the Word must do so with faith, in the humble spirit of a learner who seeks to hear what the Bible is saying. They must be willing to submit all presuppositions, opinions, and the conclusions of reason to the judgment and correction of the Word itself. With this attitude the Bible student may come directly to the Word, and with careful study may come to an understanding of the essentials of salvation apart from any human explanations, however helpful. The biblical message becomes meaningful to such a person. (1 Cor 2:10-14 KJV) But God hath revealed them unto us by his Spirit: for the Spirit searcheth all things, yea, the deep things of God. {11} For what man knoweth the things of a man, save the spirit of man which is in him? even so the things of God knoweth no man, but the Spirit of God. {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.
d. The investigation of Scripture must be characterized by a sincere desire to discover and obey God's will and word rather than to seek support or evidence for preconceived ideas.
continued....
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Post  Admin Tue 31 Mar 2009, 7:27 pm

How to Study the Bible- Lesson #4 Overview of the Bible and Bible Study Methods{edited by Brother Bob from many sources)
STUDY THE BIBLE INTELLIGENTLY BY:

1. Letting the Bible speak for itself. Leaving preconceived ideas behind, if the Bible over-rules them. (Prov 30:5-6 KJV) Every word of God is pure: he is a shield unto them that put their trust in him. {6} Add thou not unto his words, lest he reprove thee, and thou be found a liar. 2. Being open to the leading of the Holy Spirit in studying the Bible; studying in an attitude of prayer and teachableness.
3. Learning to use Bible Study tools such as a Bible Dictionaries, Concordances, Hebrew and Greek language helps, topical Bibles, The Treasury of Scripture Knowledge Cross-Reference Concordance, and others.4. Letting the whole Bible speak to a topic, not just one verse.5. Not altering the inspired meaning of a verse by only using a fragment of the verse and not considering the context of the verse with the verses surrounding it, or the light of cross-referenced passages.5. Allowing the historical context to help in clarifying difficult passages where applicable, 6. Keeping a written record of your studies for future use. Taking notes as you study. Developing a plan of future study as you uncover interesting information.7. Applying the study to your life. Being prepared to share what you learned with others.8. Asking these questions as you read:
a. What does this chapter teach concerning Christ?
b. Is there any example here for me to follow?
c. Is there any error for me to avoid?
d. Is there any duty for me to perform?
e. Is there any promise for me to claim?
f. Is there any prayer for me to pray?

Continued....
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Bro Bob   IXTHEUS CHRISTIAN GROWTH Empty Re: Bro Bob IXTHEUS CHRISTIAN GROWTH

Post  Admin Sat 28 Mar 2009, 7:22 pm

The following are suggested:
(1) Book-by-book analysis of the message
(2) Verse-by-verse method
(3) Study that seeks a biblical solution to a specific life problem, biblical satisfaction for a specific need, or a biblical answer to a specific question
(4) Topical study (faith, love, second coming, and others)
(5) Word study
(6) Biographical study c. Seek to grasp the simple, most obvious meaning of the biblical passage being studied. d. Seek to discover the underlying major themes of Scripture as found in individual texts, passages, and books. Two basic, related themes run throughout Scripture:(1) The person and work of Jesus Christ; and (2) the authority of God's Word, the fall of man, the first and second advents of Christ, the exoneration of God and His law, and the restoration of the divine plan for the universe. These themes are to be drawn from the totality of Scripture and not imposed on it. e. Recognize that the Bible is its own interpreter and that the meaning of words, texts, and passages is best determined by diligently comparing scripture with scripture. f. Study the "context" of the passage under consideration, that is by relating it to the sentences and paragraphs immediately preceding and following it. Try to relate the ideas of the passage to the line of thought of the entire Bible book.
g. As far as possible ascertain the historical circumstances in which the passage was written by the biblical writers under the guidance of the Holy Spirit.
h. Determine the literary type the author is using. Some biblical material is composed of parables, proverbs, allegories, psalms, and apocalyptic prophecies. i. Let the Biblical text teach you, and not you trying to make the text conform to your preconceived ideas. Always try to understand the text by examining a few verses before and a few verses after the verse you are examining. This is called, "understanding a verse in its context". j. Take note of grammar and sentence construction in order to discover the author's meaning. Study the key words of the passage by comparing their use in other parts of the Bible by means of a concordance and with the help of biblical lexicons and dictionaries.
k. In connection with the study of the biblical text, explore the historical and cultural factors. Archaeology, anthropology, and history may contribute to understanding the meaning of the text. m. Various commentaries and secondary helps such as scholarly works may be consulted to see how others have dealt with the passage. Then carefully evaluate the different viewpoints expressed from the standpoint of Scripture as a whole.
Interpreting Prophetic Passages In interpreting prophecy keep in mind that:
(1) The Bible claims God's power to predict the future (Isa 46:10).
(2) Prophecy has a moral purpose. It was not written merely to satisfy curiosity about the future. Some of the purposes of prophecy are to strengthen faith (John 14:29) and to promote holy living and readiness for the Advent (Matt 24:44; Rev 22:7, 10, 11). (John 14:29 KJV) And now I have told you before it come to pass, that, when it is come to pass, ye might believe. (3) The focus of much prophecy is on Christ (both His first and second advents), the church, and the end-time.
(4) The norms for interpreting prophecy are found within the Bible itself: The Bible notes time prophecies and their historical fulfillments; the New Testament cites specific fulfillments of Old Testament prophecies about the Messiah; and the Old Testament itself presents individuals and events as types of the Messiah.
(5) In the New Testament application of Old Testament prophecies, some literal names become spiritual: for example, Israel sometimes represents the church, Babylon apostate religion, etc.
(6) There are two general types of prophetic writings: nonapocalyptic prophecy as found in Isaiah and Jeremiah, and apocalyptic prophecy as found in Daniel and the Revelation. These differing types have different characteristics:
(a) Nonapocalyptic prophecy addresses God's people; apocalyptic is more universal in scope.
(b) Nonapocalyptic prophecy often is conditional in nature, setting forth to God's people the alternatives of blessing for obedience and curses for disobedience; apocalyptic emphasizes the sovereignty of God and His control over history.
(c) Nonapocalyptic prophecy often leaps from the local crisis to the end-time day of the Lord; apocalyptic prophecy presents the course of history from the time of the prophet to the end of the world.
(d) Time prophecies in nonapocalyptic prophecy generally are long, for example, 400 years of Israel's servitude (Gen. 15:13) and 70 years of Babylonian captivity (Jer. 25:12). Time prophecies in apocalyptic prophecy generally are phrased in short terms, for example, 10 days (Rev. 2:10) or 42 months (Rev. 13:5). Apocalyptic time periods stand symbolically for longer periods of actual time.
(7) Apocalyptic prophecy is can be highly symbolic as well as literal, and should be interpreted accordingly. In interpreting symbols, the following methods may be used:
(a) Look for interpretations (explicit or implicit) within the passage itself (for example, Dan. 8:20, 21; Rev. 1:20).
(b) Look for interpretations elsewhere in the book or in other writings by the same author.
(c) Using a concordance, study the use of symbols in other parts of Scripture.
(d) A study of ancient manners and customs of Bible lands and peoples may throw light on the meaning of some symbols used in scripture, although what is revealed about these things in the scriptures takes precedence over secular sources of information. (8) The literary structure of a book often is an aid to interpreting it. The parallel nature of Daniel's prophecies is an example. Psalm 119 is divided into clusters of 8 verses each beginning with the same letter of the Hebrew alphabet. Many more examples could be cited.
Comparing Parallel Passages Parallel accounts in Scripture sometimes present differences in detail and emphasis while covering the same events. (for example, cf. Matt 21:33, 34; Mark 12:1-11; and Luke 20:9-18; or 2 Kings 18-20 with 2 Chron. 32). When studying such passages, first examine them carefully to be sure that the parallels actually are referring to the same historical event. For example, many of Jesus' parables may have been given on different occasions to different audiences and with different wording, resulting in differing details.
In cases where there appear to be differences in parallel accounts, one should recognize that the total message of the Bible is the synthesis of all of its parts. Each book or writer communicates that which the Spirit has led him to write. Each makes his own special contribution to the richness, diversity, and variety of Scripture. "Holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Spirit" (2 Pet 1:21) is self-explanatory. When parallel passages seem to indicate discrepancy or contradiction, look for the underlying harmony. Keep in mind that dissimilarities may be the result of differing emphases and choice of materials of various authors who wrote under the inspiration and guidance of the Holy Spirit for different audiences under different circumstances.
It may prove impossible to reconcile minor dissimilarities in detail which may be irrelevant to the main and clear message of the passage. In some cases judgment may have to be suspended until more information and better evidence are available to resolve a seeming discrepancy.
Historical Passages of the Bible The Scriptures record that God accepted persons whose experiences and statements were not in harmony with the spiritual principles of the Bible as a whole. For example, we may cite incidents relating to the use of alcohol, polygamy, divorce, and slavery. Although condemnation of such deeply ingrained social customs is not explicit, God did not necessarily endorse or approve all that He permitted and bore with in the lives of the patriarchs and in Israel. Jesus made this clear in His statement with regard to divorce (Matt 19:4-6, 8).
The spirit of the Scriptures is one of restoration. God works patiently to elevate fallen humanity from the depths of sin to the divine ideal. Consequently, we must not accept as models the actions of sinful men as recorded in the Bible in historical passages, but defer to passages which deal directly with sins and doctrinal issues.
The Scriptures represent the unfolding of God's revelation to man. Jesus' Sermon on the Mount, for example, enlarges, explains and expands certain Old Testament concepts. Christ Himself and His teachings are the ultimate revelation of God's mind and character to humanity (Heb. 1:1-3).
While there is an overarching unity in the Bible from Genesis to Revelation, and while all Scripture is equally inspired, God chose to reveal Himself to and through human individuals and to meet them where they were in terms of spiritual and intellectual endowments. God Himself does not change, but He progressively unfolded His revelation to men as they were able to grasp it (John 16:12; ). Every experience or statement of Scripture is a divinely inspired record, but not every statement or experience is necessarily normative for Christian behavior today. Historical passages should not necessarily be used for doctrine, and both the spirit and the letter of Scripture must be examined to understand God's intent. (1 Cor. 10:6-13; ).
Apply the Lessons to Your Life As the final goal, make application of the text. Ask such questions as, "What is the message and purpose God intends to convey through Scripture?" "What meaning does this text have for me?" "How does it apply to my situation and circumstances today?" In doing so, recognize that although many biblical passages had local significance, nonetheless they contain timeless principles applicable to every age and culture. Conclusion The Bible, with its God-given truths expressed in the language of men, presents the revelation of God's intentions for the lives of men. The nature of Christ, who was the Son of God and the Son of man, is the full expression of this revelation. Thus it is true of the Bible, as it was of Christ, that "the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us." John 1:14. As it is impossible for those who do not accept Christ's divinity to understand the purpose of His incarnation, it is also impossible for those who see the Bible merely as a human book to understand its message, however careful and rigorous their methods. To consider the Bible as only "literature", ignores its Divine Origin and that it is a Living Book full of the Power to change the lives of men.
Heb 4:12 (KJV) For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. 2Ti 2:15 (KJV+) Study{G=make a diligent effort} to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman{G=a toiler, a teacher} that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing{G=to dissect cleanly, correctly} the word of truth.

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Bro Bob   IXTHEUS CHRISTIAN GROWTH Empty Re: Bro Bob IXTHEUS CHRISTIAN GROWTH

Post  Admin Sat 28 Mar 2009, 7:22 pm

The Origin of the Bible
(1) The Bible is the Word of God and is the primary and authoritative means by which He reveals Himself to human beings.
(2) The Holy Spirit inspired the Bible writers with the very words they were to write: (2 Pet 1:20-21 KJV) Knowing this first, that no prophecy of the scripture is of any private interpretation. {21} For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost. (2 Sam 23:2 KJV) The spirit of the LORD spake by me, and his word was in my tongue. (Luke 1:68-70 KJV) Blessed be the Lord God of Israel; for he hath visited and redeemed his people, {69} And hath raised up an horn of salvation for us in the house of his servant David; {70} As he spake by the mouth of his holy prophets, which have been since the world began: (3) All Scripture is inspired by God and came through the work of the Holy Spirit. It came at various times to various prophets as the Lord saw fit. (Heb 1:1-2 KJV) 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; (4)The Bible is its own best interpreter and when studied as a whole it depicts a consistent, harmonious truth (5) Although it was given to those who lived in an ancient Near Eastern/Mediterranean context, the Bible transcends time and cultural backgrounds to serve as God's Word for all cultures and ages. The Authority of the Bible
(1) The sixty-six books of the Old and New Testaments are the clear, infallible revelation of God's thoughts, will and His salvation. The Bible is the Word of God, and it alone is the standard by which all teaching and experience must be tested (2 Tim. 3:15, 17; Ps. 119:105; Prov. 30:5, 6; Isa. 8:20; John 17:17; 2 Thess. 3:14; Heb. 4:12).(2 Tim 3:15-17 KJV) 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, thoroughly furnished unto all good works. (Heb 4:12 KJV) For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.
(2) Scripture is an authentic, reliable record of history and God's acts in history. It also provides a theological interpretation of those acts. The supernatural acts revealed in Scripture are historically true. For example, chapters 1-11 of Genesis are a factual account of historical events.
(3) The Bible is not like other books. It is an indivisible blend of the divine and the human. It records of many details of secular history as well as some information about peoples and places unknown to historians and archeologists. However, after perhaps decades of searching and believing that the Biblical reocord is true, archeologists have always found cities and civilizations in the Holy Land to be just as the Bible described them. (4) Human reason is subject to the Bible, not equal to or above it. Presuppositions regarding the Scriptures must be in harmony with the claims of the Scriptures and subject to correction by them. God intends that human reason be used to its fullest extent, but within the context and under the authority of His Word rather than independent of it. (1 Cor 2:1-5 KJV) And I, brethren, when I came to you, came not with excellency of speech or of wisdom, declaring unto you the testimony of God. {2} For I determined not to know any thing among you, save Jesus Christ, and him crucified. {3}And I was with you in weakness, and in fear, and in much trembling. {4} And my speech and my preaching was not with enticing words of man's wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power: {5} That your faith should not stand in the wisdom of men, but in the power of God.
(5) When properly understood, the statements in the scriptures regarding nature and the universe are true and dont need to be altered or apologized for. The revelation of God in all nature is in harmony with the written Word, and is to be interpreted in the light of Scripture. Principles for Interpreting Scripture a. The Holy Spirit enables the believer to accept, understand, and apply the Bible to one's own life as he seeks divine power to render obedience to all scriptural requirements and to appropriate personally all Bible promises. Only those following the light already received can hope to receive further illumination of the Spirit.(John 16:13-14 KJV) 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 show you things to come. {14} He shall glorify me: for he shall receive of mine, and shall show it unto you.
b. Scripture cannot be correctly interpreted without the aid of the Holy Spirit, for it is the Spirit who enables the believer to understand and apply Scripture. Therefore, any study of the Word should begin with a request for the Holy Spirit's guidance and illumination. (Psa 119:18 KJV) Open thou mine eyes, that I may behold wondrous things out of thy law. (Eph 1:15-18 KJV) Wherefore I also, after I heard of your faith in the Lord Jesus, and love unto all the saints, {16} Cease not to give thanks for you, making mention of you in my prayers; {17} That the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give unto you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of him: {18} The eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that ye may know what is the hope of his calling, and what the riches of the glory of his inheritance in the saints, c. Those who come to the study of the Word must do so with faith, in the humble spirit of a learner who seeks to hear what the Bible is saying. They must be willing to submit all presuppositions, opinions, and the conclusions of reason to the judgment and correction of the Word itself. With this attitude the Bible student may come directly to the Word, and with careful study may come to an understanding of the essentials of salvation apart from any human explanations, however helpful. The biblical message becomes meaningful to such a person. (1 Cor 2:10-14 KJV) But God hath revealed them unto us by his Spirit: for the Spirit searcheth all things, yea, the deep things of God. {11} For what man knoweth the things of a man, save the spirit of man which is in him? even so the things of God knoweth no man, but the Spirit of God. {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.
d. The investigation of Scripture must be characterized by a sincere desire to discover and obey God's will and word rather than to seek support or evidence for preconceived ideas. Methods of Bible Study
a. Select a Bible version for study that is faithful to the meaning contained in languages in which the Bible originally was written. The King James Bible is the Bible recommeded as a basis for study, owing to its completeness and closeness to the original Greek and Hebrew. The words and sentence structures are sometimes awkward to modern readers, however these peculiarities reflect the conformity to the Hebrew and Greek sentence structures and the English meanings of the words in the 1600's when the translation was made. Modern translations can lose this richness of detail. In addition, many of the classic Bible study helps of the past(ie, concordances, Bible dcitionaries and encyclopedias, Greek and Hebrew translation helpsmanners and customs studies) are keyed to the King James Version. b. Choose a definite plan of study, try to stay focussed on an approach you are working on until you have mastered it, then try another.
continued....
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Post  Admin Sat 28 Mar 2009, 7:16 pm

How to Study the Bible- Lesson #4 Overview of the Bible and Bible Study Methods{edited by Brother Bob from many sources)
STUDY THE BIBLE INTELLIGENTLY BY:

1. Letting the Bible speak for itself. Leaving preconceived ideas behind, if the Bible over-rules them. (Prov 30:5-6 KJV) Every word of God is pure: he is a shield unto them that put their trust in him. {6} Add thou not unto his words, lest he reprove thee, and thou be found a liar. 2. Being open to the leading of the Holy Spirit in studying the Bible; studying in an attitude of prayer and teachableness.
3. Learning to use Bible Study tools such as a Bible Dictionaries, Concordances, Hebrew and Greek language helps, topical Bibles, The Treasury of Scripture Knowledge Cross-Reference Concordance, and others.4. Letting the whole Bible speak to a topic, not just one verse.5. Not altering the inspired meaning of a verse by only using a fragment of the verse and not considering the context of the verse with the verses surrounding it, or the light of cross-referenced passages.5. Allowing the historical context to help in clarifying difficult passages where applicable, 6. Keeping a written record of your studies for future use. Taking notes as you study. Developing a plan of future study as you uncover interesting information.7. Applying the study to your life. Being prepared to share what you learned with others.8. Asking these questions as you read:
a. What does this chapter teach concerning Christ?
b. Is there any example here for me to follow?
c. Is there any error for me to avoid?
d. Is there any duty for me to perform?
e. Is there any promise for me to claim?
f. Is there any prayer for me to pray?
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Bro Bob   IXTHEUS CHRISTIAN GROWTH Empty WHERE TO LOOK IN THE BIBLE

Post  Admin Wed 25 Mar 2009, 12:35 pm

WHERE TO LOOK IN THE BIBLE
When you need rest and peace.........Matt 11:25-30 When you worry..............................Matt 6:19-34 When you are lonely or fearful..........Psalm 23 When you need peace of mind....................John 14: 27, Phil 4: 6-8 men fail you.....................Psalm 27
When you grow bitter and critical......1 Corinthians 13 When you have sinned..............Psalm 51, 1 John1 When you are discouraged.........Psalm 34
When God seems far away.........Psalm 139
When the world seems bigger than God.....Psalm 90
When in sickness......................Psalm 41 When you feel sorrowful...........................John 14, Psalm 46 When in danger........................Psalm 91 When you want courage...........................Joshua 1: 1-9 When you need assurance.................Romans 8, 1 John 5 When you forget your blessings...Psalm 103
When looking for joy................Colossions 3
When you leave home to travel..Psalm 121
When you think of investments......Mark 10:17-31 When you need guidlines for living.....Matt 5 thru 7, Romans 12
When you need rules of conduct.....Exodus 20:1-17 When you need to know God's will for your life.....Prov. 3: 1-6

Above, from the GOOD NEWS PUBLISHERS tract.....
"Where to look in the Bible"
1300 Crescent Street, Wheaton Illinois 60187

God has a positive answer to all of your concerns: YOU SAY
GOD SAYS
BIBLE VERSES

You say: "It's impossible"
God says: All things are possible
(Luke 18:27)

You say: "I'm too tired"
God says: I will give you rest
(Matthew 11:28-30)

You say: "Nobody really loves me"
God says: I love you
(John 3:16 & John 3:34 )

You say: "I can't go on"
God says: My grace is sufficient
(II Corinthians 12:9 & Psalm 91:15)

You say: "I can't figure things out"
God says: I will direct your steps
(Proverbs 3:5-6)

You say: "I can't do it"
God says: You can do all things
(Philippians 4:13)

You say: "I'm not able"
God says: I am able
(II Corinthians 9:8)

You say: "It's not worth it"
God says: It will be worth it
(Roman 8:28 )

You say: "I can't forgive myself"
God says: I Forgive you
(I John 1:9 & Romans 8:1)

You say: "I can't manage"
God says: I will supply all your needs
(Philippians 4:19)

You say: "I'm afraid"
God says: I have not given you a spirit of fear
(II Timothy 1:7)

You say: "I'm always worried and frustrated"
God says: Cast all your cares on ME
(I Peter 5:7)

You say: "I'm not smart enough"
God says: I give you wisdom
(I Corinthians 1:30)

You say: "I feel all alone"
God says: I will never leave you or forsake you
(Hebrews 13:5)


---------------------------------------------
BIBLE VERSES TO PONDER (Mat 4:4 KJV) But Jesus answered and said, It is written, Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God. Luke 11:28 KJV But he said, Yea rather, blessed are they that hear the word of God, and keep it. Rom 10:17 KJV So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God. Eph 6:17-18 KJVAnd take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God:
Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints; Heb 4:12 KJV For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit,and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.
Heb 4:2-3 KJV For unto us was the gospel preached, as well as unto them: but the word preached did not profit them, not being mixed with faith in them that heard it. {3} For we which have believed do enter into rest, as he said, As I have sworn in my wrath, if they shall enter into my rest: although the works were finished from the foundation of the world. Prov 30:5 KJVEvery word of God is pure: he is a shield unto them that put their trust in him. Isa 55:11 KJV So shall my word be that goeth forth out of my mouth: it shall not return unto me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it.
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For further study, Check out these archives of past devotionals: (Note: the devotionals may be under the headings of "discussions" "files" or "pages" )
http://groups.google.com/group/ixtheus-devotionals-archive-part-2?msg=new&lnk=gcis&hl=enhttp://groups.google.com/group/ixtheus-devotionals-archive/web?hl=enhttp://groups.google.com/group/ixtheus-devotionals-archive/webhttp://groups.google.com/group/ixtheus-archives-part-3/http://groups.google.com/group/ixtheus-devotionals-archive-4
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Post  Admin Wed 18 Mar 2009, 1:35 pm

If you are a born-again believer in Jesus Christ...
You (#10) have extreme value in the eyes of God YOUR LIFE IS HIDDEN WITH CHRIST IN GOD (Col 3:1-17 KJV) If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God. (2) Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth. (3) For ye are dead, and your life is hid with Christ in God. (4) When Christ, who is our life, shall appear, then shall ye also appear with him in glory. (5) Mortify therefore your members which are upon the earth; fornication, uncleanness, inordinate affection, evil concupiscence, and covetousness, which is idolatry: (6) For which things' sake the wrath of God cometh on the children of disobedience: (7) In the which ye also walked some time, when ye lived in them. (8) But now ye also put off all these; anger, wrath, malice, blasphemy, filthy communication out of your mouth. (9) Lie not one to another, seeing that ye have put off the old man with his deeds; (10) And have put on the new man, which is renewed in knowledge after the image of him that created him: (11) Where there is neither Greek nor Jew, circumcision nor uncircumcision, Barbarian, Scythian, bond nor free: but Christ is all, and in all. (12) Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering; (13) Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye. (14) And above all these things put on charity, which is the bond of perfectness. (15) And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful. (16) Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord. (17) And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him. YOU ARE THE PRODUCT OF GOD'S HANDIWORK (Psa 100:3-5 KJV) Know ye that the LORD he is God: it is he that hath made us, and not we ourselves; we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture. {4} Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, and into his courts with praise: be thankful unto him, and bless his name. {5} For the LORD is good; his mercy is everlasting; and his truth endureth to all generations. (Eph 2:10-14 KJV) For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them. {11} Wherefore remember, that ye being in time past Gentiles in the flesh, who are called Uncircumcision by that which is called the Circumcision in the flesh made by hands; {12} That at that time ye were without Christ, being aliens from the commonwealth of Israel, and strangers from the covenants of promise, having no hope, and without God in the world: {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; (Phil 2:12-13 KJV) 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. IN CHRIST YOU ARE HOLY AND WITHOUT BLAME BEFORE GOD (Eph 1:3-8 KJV) Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ: {4} According as he hath chosen us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before him in love: {5} Having predestinated us unto the adoption of children by Jesus Christ to himself, \according to the good pleasure of his will, {6} To the praise of the glory of his grace, wherein he hath made us accepted in the beloved. {7} In whom we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of his grace; {8} Wherein he hath abounded toward us in all wisdom and prudence; IF YOU FLEE FROM SIN, YOU CAN BE A VESSEL OF HONOR AND USEFULLNESS TO GOD (2 Tim 2:19-26 KJV) Nevertheless the foundation of God standeth sure, having this seal, The Lord knoweth them that are his. And, Let every one that nameth the name of Christ depart from iniquity. {20} But in a great house there are not only vessels of gold and of silver, but also of wood and of earth; and some to honour, and some to dishonour. {21} 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.
WHEN YOU PURSUE A HUMBLE SPIRIT, GOD SEEKS TO EXALT YOU (Prov 22:3-4 KJV) A prudent man foreseeth the evil, and hideth himself: but the simple pass on, and are punished. {4} By humility and the fear of the LORD are riches, and honour, and life. (1 Pet 5:5-11 KJV) Likewise, ye younger, submit yourselves unto the elder. Yea, all of you be subject one to another, and be clothed with humility: for God resisteth the proud, and giveth grace to the humble. {6} 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. {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. {11} To him be glory and dominion for ever and ever. Amen. WE WERE ORIGINALLY CREATED TO DISPLAY THE IMAGE AND GLORY OF GOD (Gen 1:27-28 KJV) So God created man in his own image, in the image of God created he him; male and female created he them. {28} And God blessed them, and God said unto them, Be fruitful, and multiply, and replenish the earth, and subdue it: and have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over every living thing that moveth upon the earth. (1 Cor 11:7 KJV) For a man indeed ought not to cover his head, forasmuch as he is the image and glory of God: but the woman is the glory of the man. (Gen 5:1-2 KJV) This is the book of the generations of Adam. In the day that God created man, in the likeness of God made he him; {2} Male and female created he them; and blessed them, and called their name Adam, in the day when they were created. (Gen 9:6-7 KJV) Whoso sheddeth man's blood, by man shall his blood be shed: for in the image of God made he man. {7} And you, be ye fruitful, and multiply; bring forth abundantly in the earth, and multiply therein. (Psa 8:3-6 KJV) When I consider thy heavens, the work of thy fingers, the moon and the stars, which thou hast ordained; {4} What is man, that thou art mindful of him? and the son of man, that thou visitest him? {5} For thou hast made him a little lower than the angels, and hast crowned him with glory and honour. {6} Thou madest him to have dominion over the works of thy hands; thou hast put all things under his feet: YOU ARE ENCOURAGED TO WALK IN LOVE AND LIGHT, AS AN IMITATOR OF GOD (Eph 5:1-8 KJV) Be ye therefore followers of God, as dear children; {2} And walk in love, as Christ also hath loved us, and hath given himself for us an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweetsmelling savour. {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: IN CHRIST WE ARE ETERNALLY SECURE TO ENJOY THE BLESSINGS OF GOD'S LOVE AND CARE (1 Cor 1:30-31 KJV) But of him are ye in Christ Jesus, who of God is made unto us wisdom, and righteousness, and sanctification, and redemption: {31} That, according as it is written, He that glorieth, let him glory in the Lord. (Rom 8:1-2 KJV) There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. {2} For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death. (Rom 8:33-39 KJV) Who shall lay any thing to the charge of God's elect? It is God that justifieth. {34} Who is he that condemneth? It is Christ that died, yea rather, that is risen again, who is even at the right hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us. {35} Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword? {36} As it is written, For thy sake we are killed all the day long; we are accounted as sheep for the slaughter. {37} Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us. {38} For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, {39} Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord. YOU HAVE RECEIVED AN ETERNAL INHERITANCE IN CHRIST (Eph 1:10-14 KJV) That in the dispensation of the fulness of times he might gather together in one all things in Christ, both which are in heaven, and which are on earth; even in him: {11} In whom also we have obtained an inheritance, being predestinated according to the purpose of him who worketh all things after the counsel of his own will: {12} That we should be to the praise of his glory, who first trusted in Christ. {13} In whom ye also trusted, after that ye heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation: in whom also after that ye believed, ye were sealed with that holy Spirit of promise, {14} Which is the earnest of our inheritance until the redemption of the purchased possession, unto the praise of his glory. iF YOU OBEY HIS WORD, JESUS PROMISES YOU WILL SHARE IN HIS ETERNAL JOY (John 15:4-11 KJV) Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine; no more can ye, except ye abide in me. {5} I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing. {6} If a man abide not in me, he is cast forth as a branch, and is withered; and men gather them, and cast them into the fire, and they are burned. {7} If ye abide in me, and my words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you. {8} Herein is my Father glorified, that ye bear much fruit; so shall ye be my disciples. {9} As the Father hath loved me, so have I loved you: continue ye in my love. {10} If ye keep my commandments, ye shall abide in my love; even as I have kept my Father's commandments, and abide in his love. {11} These things have I spoken unto you, that my joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full.
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For further study, Check out these archives of past devotionals:
http://groups.google.com/group/ixtheus-devotionals-archive-part-2?msg=new&lnk=gcis&hl=enhttp://groups.google.com/group/ixtheus-devotionals-archive/web?hl=enhttp://groups.google.com/group/ixtheus-devotionals-archive/webhttp://groups.google.com/group/ixtheus-archives-part-3/http://groups.google.com/group/ixtheus-devotionals-archive-4
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Bro Bob   IXTHEUS CHRISTIAN GROWTH Empty Re: Bro Bob IXTHEUS CHRISTIAN GROWTH

Post  Admin Sun 15 Mar 2009, 12:02 pm

If you are a born-again believer in Jesus Christ...
You (#9) have extreme value in the eyes of God YOU ARE GUILTLESS BECAUSE OF THE SACRIFICE OF JESUS CHRIST ON THE CROSS (Rom 8:1-5 KJV) There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. {2} For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death. {3} For what the law could not do, in that it was weak through the flesh, God sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, and for sin, condemned sin in the flesh: {4} That the righteousness of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. {5} For they that are after the flesh do mind the things of the flesh; but they that are after the Spirit the things of the Spirit.
GOD'S UNDESERVED LOVE IN CHRIST HAS SET US FREE FROM SIN (Rom 3:21-26 KJV) But now the righteousness of God without the law is manifested, being witnessed by the law and the prophets; {22} Even the righteousness of God which is by faith of Jesus Christ unto all and upon all them that believe: for there is no difference: {23} For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God; {24} Being justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus: {25} Whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation through faith in his blood, to declare his righteousness for the remission of sins that are past, through the forbearance of God; {26} To declare, I say, at this time his righteousness: that he might be just, and the justifier of him which believeth in Jesus. (Rom 5:17-20 KJV) For if by one man's offence death reigned by one; much more they which receive abundance of grace and of the gift of righteousness shall reign in life by one, Jesus Christ. {18} Therefore as by the offence of one judgment came upon all men to condemnation; even so by the righteousness of one the free gift came upon all men unto justification of life. {19} For as by one man's disobedience many were made sinners, so by the obedience of one shall many be made righteous. {20} Moreover the law entered, that the offence might abound. But where sin abounded, grace did much more abound:
GOD WILL KEEP YOUR IMMORTAL SOUL SAFE FOR NOW AND FOR ETERNITY (2 Tim 1:12-14 KJV)
For the which cause I also suffer these things: nevertheless I am not ashamed: for I know whom I have believed, and am persuaded that he is able to keep that which I have committed unto him against that day. {13} Hold fast the form of sound words, which thou hast heard of me, in faith and love which is in Christ Jesus. {14} That good thing which was committed unto thee keep by the Holy Ghost which dwelleth in us. (1 John 5:11-13 KJV) And this is the record, that God hath given to us eternal life, and this life is in his Son. {12} He that hath the Son hath life; and he that hath not the Son of God hath not life. {13} 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.
YOU CAN BE ASSURED THAT GOD IS ON YOUR SIDE (Rom 8:31-39 KJV) What shall we then say to these things? If God be for us, who can be against us? {32} He that spared not his own Son, but delivered him up for us all, how shall he not with him also freely give us all things? {33} Who shall lay any thing to the charge of God's elect? It is God that justifieth. {34} Who is he that condemneth? It is Christ that died, yea rather, that is risen again, who is even at the right hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us. {35} Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword? {36} As it is written, For thy sake we are killed all the day long; we are accounted as sheep for the slaughter. {37} Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us. {38} For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, {39} Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
YOUR HEART AND MIND ARE GUARDED BY GOD'S PEACE (Phil 4:7-9 KJV) And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. {8} Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things. {9} Those things, which ye have both learned, and received, and heard, and seen in me, do: and the God of peace shall be with you. (Num 6:24-26 KJV) The LORD bless thee, and keep thee: {25} The LORD make his face shine upon thee, and be gracious unto thee: {26} The LORD lift up his countenance upon thee, and give thee peace.
YOUR ETERNAL INHERITANCE IS GUARANTEED BY THE GIFT OF THE HOLY SPIRIT (Eph 1:11-14 KJV) In whom also we have obtained an inheritance, being predestinated according to the purpose of him who worketh all things after the counsel of his own will: {12} That we should be to the praise of his glory, who first trusted in Christ. {13} In whom ye also trusted, after that ye heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation: in whom also after that ye believed, ye were sealed with that holy Spirit of promise, {14} Which is the earnest of our inheritance until the redemption of the purchased possession, unto the praise of his glory.
GOD PROMISES TO GUIDE YOU UNTO AND EVEN BEYOND DEATH (Psa 48:14 KJV) For this God is our God for ever and ever: he will be our guide even unto death. (Psa 23:3-6 KJV) He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake. {4} Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me. {5} Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over. {6} Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the LORD for ever. (Psa 25:9-13 KJV) The meek will he guide in judgment: and the meek will he teach his way. {10} All the paths of the LORD are mercy and truth unto such as keep his covenant and his testimonies. {11} For thy name's sake, O LORD, pardon mine iniquity; for it is great. {12} What man is he that feareth the LORD? him shall he teach in the way that he shall choose. {13} His soul shall dwell at ease; and his seed shall inherit the earth.
THOUGH YOU SUFFER WRONGFULLY, GOD SEES IT, AND WILL COMFORT AND REWARD YOU (1 Pet 2:19-25 KJV) 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: {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. {25} For ye were as sheep going astray; but are now returned unto the Shepherd and Bishop of your souls.
YOU ARE AN HEIR OF GOD AND HAVE THE HOPE OF ETERNAL LIFE (Titus 3:3-8 KJV) For we ourselves also were sometimes foolish, disobedient, deceived, serving divers lusts and pleasures, living in malice and envy, hateful, and hating one another. {4} But after that the kindness and love of God our Saviour toward man appeared, {5} Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost; {6} Which he shed on us abundantly through Jesus Christ our Saviour; {7} That being justified by his grace, we should be made heirs according to the hope of eternal life. {8} This is a faithful saying, and these things I will that thou affirm constantly, that they which have believed in God might be careful to maintain good works. These things are good and profitable unto men.
THE ONLY AND TRUE GOD IS YOUR HELPER (Isa 44:2,6 KJV) Thus saith the LORD that made thee, and formed thee from the womb, which will help thee;........{6} Thus saith the LORD the King of Israel, and his redeemer the LORD of hosts; I am the first, and I am the last; and beside me there is no God. (Gen 49:25 KJV) Even by the God of thy father, who shall help thee; and by the Almighty, who shall bless thee with blessings of heaven above, blessings of the deep that lieth under, blessings of the breasts, and of the womb: (Psa 30:10-12 KJV) Hear, O LORD, and have mercy upon me: LORD, be thou my helper. {11} Thou hast turned for me my mourning into dancing: thou hast put off my sackcloth*, and girded me with gladness; {12} To the end that my glory may sing praise to thee, and not be silent. O LORD my God, I will give thanks unto thee for ever.----------
---------------*The Bible Explains itself=Here is the first appearance of the word "sackcloth": (Gen 37:34 KJV) And Jacob rent his clothes, and put sackcloth upon his loins,
and mourned for his son many days.
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For further study, Check out these archives of past devotionals:
http://groups.google.com/group/ixtheus-devotionals-archive-part-2?msg=new&lnk=gcis&hl=enhttp://groups.google.com/group/ixtheus-devotionals-archive/web?hl=enhttp://groups.google.com/group/ixtheus-devotionals-archive/webhttp://groups.google.com/group/ixtheus-archives-part-3/http://groups.google.com/group/ixtheus-devotionals-archive-4
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Bro Bob   IXTHEUS CHRISTIAN GROWTH Empty Re: Bro Bob IXTHEUS CHRISTIAN GROWTH

Post  Admin Wed 11 Mar 2009, 12:00 pm

If you are a born-again believer in Jesus Christ...
You (#8) have extreme value in the eyes of God
YOU WERE FORMED IN THE WOMB BY GOD (Psa 139:13-17 KJV)
For thou hast possessed my reins{Heb=interior organs, inner self}: thou hast covered {Heb=to entwine, to join together} me in my mother's womb. {14} I will praise thee; for I am fearfully and wonderfully made: marvellous are thy works; and that my soul knoweth right well. {15} My substance was not hid from thee, when I was made in secret, and curiously wrought{Heb=embroidered, fabricated} in the lowest parts of the earth. {16} Thine eyes did see my substance, yet being unperfect; and in thy book all my members were written, which in continuance were fashioned, when as yet there was none of them. {17} How precious also are thy thoughts unto me, O God! how great is the sum of them! (Psa 71:5-9 KJV) For thou art my hope, O Lord GOD: thou art my trust from my youth. {6} By thee have I been holden up from the womb: thou art he that took me out of my mother's bowels: my praise shall be continually of thee. {7} I am as a wonder unto many; but thou art my strong refuge. {8} Let my mouth be filled with thy praise and with thy honour all the day. {9} Cast me not off in the time of old age; forsake me not when my strength faileth.
YOU ARE GOD'S CHILD (John 1:12-14 KJV) But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name: {13} Which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God. {14} And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth.
YOU ARE GOD'S GIFT TO CHRIST (John 17:24-26 KJV) Father, I will that they also, whom thou hast given me, be with me where I am; that they may behold my glory, which thou hast given me: for thou lovedst me before the foundation of the world. {25} O righteous Father, the world hath not known thee: but I have known thee, and these have known that thou hast sent me. {26} And I have declared unto them thy name, and will declare it: that the love wherewith thou hast loved me may be in them, and I in them.
YOU WERE AMONG THE LOST, BUT NOW YOU ARE FOUND BY GOD (Luke 5:31-32 KJV) And Jesus answering said unto them, They that are whole need not a physician; but they that are sick. {32} I came not to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance. (Luke 15:4-7 KJV) What man of you, having an hundred sheep, if he lose one of them, doth not leave the ninety and nine in the wilderness, and go after that which is lost, until he find it? {5} And when he hath found it, he layeth it on his shoulders, rejoicing. {6} And when he cometh home, he calleth together his friends and neighbours, saying unto them, Rejoice with me; for I have found my sheep which was lost. {7} I say unto you, that likewise joy shall be in heaven over one sinner that repenteth, more than over ninety and nine just persons, which need no repentance. (Luke 19:10 KJV) For the Son of man is come to seek and to save that which was lost.
YOUR SINS AND TRANSGRESSIONS HAVE BEEN FORGIVEN (Psa 32:1-2 KJV) A Psalm of David, Maschil. 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. (Eph 1:7 KJV) {Jesus Christ}, In whom we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of his grace; (Exo 33:17-20 KJV) And the LORD said unto Moses, I will do this thing also that thou hast spoken: for thou hast found grace in my sight, and I know thee by name. {18} And he said, I beseech thee, show me thy glory. {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 show mercy on whom I will show mercy. {20} And he said, Thou canst not see my face: for there shall no man see me, and live.
YOU HAVE BEEN SET FREE BY THE SACRIFICE OF JESUS CHRIST ON THE CROSS (Isa 61:1 KJV) The spirit of the Lord GOD is upon me; because the LORD hath anointed me to preach good tidings unto the meek; he hath sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to them that are bound; (John 8:32 KJV) And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free. (John 8:34-36 KJV) Jesus answered them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Whosoever committeth sin is the servant of sin. {35} And the servant abideth not in the house for ever: but the Son abideth ever. {36} If the Son therefore shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed. (Psa 19:12-14 KJV) Who can understand his errors? cleanse thou me from secret faults. {13} Keep back thy servant also from presumptuous sins; let them not have dominion over me: then shall I be upright, and I shall be innocent from the great transgression. {14} Let the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in thy sight, O LORD, my strength, and my redeemer.
NOTHING CAN SEPARATE YOU FROM THE LOVE OF GOD (Rom 8:32-39 KJV) He that spared not his own Son, but delivered him up for us all, how shall he not with him also freely give us all things? {33} Who shall lay any thing to the charge of God's elect? It is God that justifieth. {34} Who is he that condemneth? It is Christ that died, yea rather, that is risen again, who is even at the right hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us. {35} Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword? {36} As it is written, For thy sake we are killed all the day long; we are accounted as sheep for the slaughter. {37} Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us. {38} For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, {39} Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
YOU HAVE BEEN GIVEN THE HOLY SPIRIT AS A PROMISE OF HIS LOVE FOR YOU (2 Cor 1:20-22 KJV) For all the promises of God in him are yea, and in him Amen, unto the glory of God by us. {21} Now he which stablisheth us with you in Christ, and hath anointed us, is God; {22} Who hath also sealed us, and given the earnest of the Spirit in our hearts.
YOU HAVE BEEN GIVEN FAITH AND SPIRITUAL GIFTS TO USE FOR THE BODY OF CHRIST (Rom 12:3-8 KJV) For I say, through the grace given unto me, to every man that is among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think; but to think soberly, according as God hath dealt to every man the measure of faith. {4} For as we have many members in one body, and all members have not the same office: {5} So we, being many, are one body in Christ, and every one members one of another. {6} Having then gifts differing according to the grace that is given to us, whether prophecy, let us prophesy according to the proportion of faith; {7} Or ministry, let us wait on our ministering: or he that teacheth, on teaching; {8} Or he that exhorteth, on exhortation: he that giveth, let him do it with simplicity; he that ruleth, with diligence; he that showeth mercy, with cheerfulness.
YOU MAY PARTAKE OF THE DIVINE NATURE BY APPLYING THE PROMISES GOD HAS GIVEN US (2 Pet 1:2-4 KJV) 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. (John 1:12-13 KJV) But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name: {13} Which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God.
YOU BEAR THE SPIRITUAL FRAGRANCE OF LIFE OR DEATH TO THOSE YOU MEET (2 Cor 2:14-16 KJV) Now thanks be unto God, which always causeth us to triumph in Christ, and maketh manifest the savour{Grk=fragrance} of his knowledge by us in every place. {15} For we are unto God a sweet savour of Christ, in them that are saved, and in them that perish: {16} To the one we are the savour of death unto death; and to the other the savour of life unto life. And who is sufficient for these things?
BELIEVING THE GOSPEL LEADS TO OBTAINING THE GLORY OF JESUS CHRIST (2 Th 2:13-17 KJV) But we are bound to give thanks alway to God for you, brethren beloved of the Lord, because God hath from the beginning chosen you to salvation through sanctification of the Spirit and belief of the truth: {14} Whereunto he called you by our gospel, to the obtaining of the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ. {15} Therefore, brethren, stand fast, and hold the traditions which ye have been taught, whether by word, or our epistle. {16} Now our Lord Jesus Christ himself, and God, even our Father, which hath loved us, and hath given us everlasting consolation and good hope through grace, {17} Comfort your hearts, and stablish you in every good word and work.
YOU HAVE THE FIRSTFRUITS OF THE HOLY SPIRIT (Rom 8:19-23 KJV) For the earnest expectation of the creature waiteth for the manifestation of the sons of God. {20} For the creature was made subject to vanity, not willingly, but by reason of him who hath subjected the same in hope, {21} Because the creature itself also shall be delivered from the bondage of corruption into the glorious liberty of the children of God. {22} For we know that the whole creation groaneth and travaileth in pain together until now. {23} And not only they, but ourselves also, which have the firstfruits of the Spirit, even we ourselves groan within ourselves, waiting for the adoption, to wit, the redemption of our body.
THE BIBLE EXPLAINS ITSELF...The meaning of the term, "firstfruits" is found in these passages below:Also Note: "The feast of ingathering" has been likened to a foreshadowing of the Rapture of Believers in the last days. For Israel, it is a foreshadowing of the call of Jews to return to the land of Israel, also to occur in the last days. (Exo 23:14-17 KJV) Three times thou shalt keep a feast unto me in the year. {15} Thou shalt keep the feast of unleavened bread: (thou shalt eat unleavened bread seven days, as I commanded thee, in the time appointed of the month Abib; for in it thou camest out from Egypt: and none shall appear before me empty:) {16} And the feast of harvest, the firstfruits of thy labours, which thou hast sown in the field: and the feast of ingathering, which is in the end of the year, when thou hast gathered in thy labours out of the field. {17} Three times in the year all thy males shall appear before the Lord GOD. (Exo 23:19a KJV) The first of the firstfruits of thy land thou shalt bring into the house of the LORD thy God....
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For further study, Check out these archives of past devotionals:
http://groups.google.com/group/ixtheus-devotionals-archive-part-2?msg=new&lnk=gcis&hl=enhttp://groups.google.com/group/ixtheus-devotionals-archive/web?hl=enhttp://groups.google.com/group/ixtheus-devotionals-archive/webhttp://groups.google.com/group/ixtheus-archives-part-3/http://groups.google.com/group/ixtheus-devotionals-archive-4
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Post  Admin Wed 04 Mar 2009, 12:37 pm

Why Does God Allow Suffering?
From a study by Radio Bible Class Ministries (Mat 5:3-4, 10-12 KJV) {3} Blessed are the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. {4} Blessed are they that mourn: for they shall be comforted.... {10} Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteousness' sake: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. {11} Blessed are ye, when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely, for my sake. {12} Rejoice, and be exceeding glad: for great is your reward in heaven: for so persecuted they the prophets which were before you. Suffering Takes Us To The Edge Of Eternity
If death is the end of everything, then a life filled with suffering isn't fair. But if the end of this life brings us to the threshold of eternity, then the most fortunate people in the universe are those who discover, through suffering, that this life is not all we have to live for. Those who find themselves and their eternal God through suffering have not wasted their pain. They have let their poverty, grief, and hunger drive them to the Lord of eternity. They are the ones who will discover to their own unending joy why Jesus said, "Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven"

(Isa 66:5 KJV) Hear the word of the LORD, ye that tremble at his word; Your brethren that hated you, that cast you out for my name's sake, said, Let the LORD be glorified but He {Jesus} shall appear to your joy, and they shall be ashamed. (2 Cor 4:17-18 KJV) For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory; {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.
Pain Loosens Our Grip On This Life
In time, our work and our opinions are sought less and less. Our bodies become increasingly worse for the wear. Gradually they succumb to inevitable obsolescence. Joints stiffen and ache. Eyes grow dim. Digestion slows. Sleep becomes difficult. Problems loom larger and larger while options narrow. Yet, if death is not the end but the threshold of a new day, then the curse of old age is also a blessing. Each new pain makes this world less inviting and the next life more appealing. In its own way, pain paves the way for a graceful departure

(Eccl 12:1-7 KJV) Remember now thy Creator in the days of thy youth, while the evil days come not, nor the years draw nigh, when thou shalt say, I have no pleasure in them; {2} While the sun, or the light, or the moon, or the stars, be not darkened, nor the clouds return after the rain: {3} In the day when the keepers of the house shall tremble, and the strong men shall bow themselves, and the grinders cease because they are few, and those that look out of the windows be darkened, {4} And the doors shall be shut in the streets, when the sound of the grinding is low, and he shall rise up at the voice of the bird, and all the daughters of music shall be brought low; {5} Also when they shall be afraid of that which is high, and fears shall be in the way, and the almond tree shall flourish, and the grasshopper shall be a burden, and desire shall fail: because man goeth to his long home, and the mourners go about the streets: {6} Or ever the silver cord be loosed, or the golden bowl be broken, or the pitcher be broken at the fountain, or the wheel broken at the cistern. {7} Then shall the dust return to the earth as it was: and the spirit shall return unto God who gave it.
Suffering Gives Opportunity To Trust God
The most famous sufferer of all time was a man named Job. According to the Bible, Job lost his family to "a mighty wind," his wealth to war and fire, and his health to painful boils. Through it all, God never told Job why it was happening. As Job endured the accusations of his friends, heaven remained silent. When God finally did speak, He did not reveal that His arch-enemy Satan had challenged Job's motives for serving God. Neither did the Lord apologize for allowing Satan to test Job's devotion to God. Instead, God talked about mountain goats giving birth, young lions on the hunt, and ravens in the nest. He cited the behavior of the ostrich, the strength of the ox, and the stride of the horse. He cited the wonders of the heavens, the marvels of the sea, and the cycle of the seasons. Job was left to conclude that if God had the power and wisdom to create this physical universe, there was reason to trust that same God in times of suffering.

(Job 42:5-6 KJV) {5} I have heard of thee by the hearing of the ear: but now mine eye seeth thee. {6} Wherefore I abhor myself, and repent in dust and ashes.

God Suffers With Us In Our Suffering
No one has suffered more than our Father in heaven. No one has paid more dearly for the allowance of sin into the world. No one has so continuously grieved over the pain of a race gone bad. No one has suffered like the One who paid for our sin in the crucified body of His own Son. No one has suffered more than the One who, when He stretched out His arms and died, showed us how much He loved us. It is this God who, in drawing us to Himself, asks us to trust Him when we are suffering and when our own loved ones cry out in our presence.

(1 Pet 2:21-24 KJV) 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. (1 Pet 3:17-18 KJV) 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: (1 Pet 4:1-2 KJV) Forasmuch then as Christ hath suffered for us in the flesh, arm yourselves likewise with the same mind: for he that hath suffered in the flesh hath ceased from sin; {2} That he no longer should live the rest of his time in the flesh to the lusts of men, but to the will of God.


God's Comfort Is Greater Than Our Suffering
The apostle Paul pleaded with the Lord to take away an unidentified source of suffering. But the Lord declined saying, "My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness." "Therefore," said Paul, "most gladly I will rather boast in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in needs, in persecutions, in distresses, for Christ's sake. For when I am weak, then I am strong". Paul learned that he would rather be with Christ in suffering than without Christ in good health and pleasant circumstances.

(2 Cor 12:7-10 KJV) 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. {10} Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ's sake: for when I am weak, then am I strong.
In Times Of Crisis, We Find One Another

No one would choose pain and suffering. But when there is no choice, there remains some consolation. Natural disasters and times of crisis have a way of bringing us together. Hurricanes, fires, earthquakes, riots, illnesses, accidents and financial reversals all have a way of bringing us to our senses. Suddenly we remember our own mortality and that people are more important than things. We remember that we do need one another and that, above all, we need God. Each time we discover God's comfort in our own suffering, our capacity to help others is increased. This is what the apostle Paul had in mind when he wrote, "Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort those who are in any trouble, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God".

(2 Cor 1:3-4 KJV) Blessed be God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies, and the God of all comfort; {4} Who comforteth us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort them which are in any trouble, by the comfort wherewith we ourselves are comforted of God.
God Can Turn Suffering Around For Our Good

This truth is best seen in the many examples of the Bible. Through Job's suffering we see a man who not only came to a deeper understanding of God but who also became a source of encouragement for people in every generation to follow. Through the rejection, betrayal, enslavement, and wrongful imprisonment of a man named Joseph, we see someone who eventually was able to say to those who had hurt him, "You meant evil against me; but God meant it for good" ( Genesis 50:20). When everything in us screams at the heavens for allowing suffering, we have reason to look at the eternal outcome and joy of Jesus who in His own suffering on an executioner's cross cried, "My God, My God, why have You forsaken Me?" ( Matthew 27:46).

(Gen 50:20a KJV) But as for you, ye thought evil against me; but God meant it unto good... (Rom 8:26-28 KJV) Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered. {27} And he that searcheth the hearts knoweth what is the mind of the Spirit, because he maketh intercession for the saints according to the will of God. {28} And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose. You're Not Alone
You're not alone if the unfairness and suffering of life leaves you unconvinced that a God in heaven cares for you. But consider again the suffering of the One called by the prophet Isaiah, "a Man of sorrows and acquainted with grief". Think about His slashed back, His bloodied forehead, His nail-ripped hands and feet, His pierced side, His agony in the Garden, and His pathetic cry of abandonment. Consider Christ's claim that He was suffering not for His sins but for ours. To give us the freedom to choose, He lets us suffer. But He Himself bore the ultimate penalty and pain for all of our sins.

(Isa 53:3-6 KJV) He is despised and rejected of men; a man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief: and we hid as it were our faces from him; he was despised, and we esteemed him not. {4} Surely he hath borne our griefs, and carried our sorrows: yet we did esteem him stricken, smitten of God, and afflicted. {5} But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed. {6} All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned every one to his own way; and the LORD hath laid on him the iniquity of us all.

(2 Cor 5:21 KJV) For he hath made him who knew no sin to be sin for us, ; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him. (1 Pet 2:19-21 KJV) 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:
When you do see the reason for His suffering, keep in mind that the Bible says Christ died to pay the price for our sins, and that those who believe in their heart that God has raised Him from the dead will be saved. The forgiveness and eternal life Christ has to offer is not a reward for effort but a gift to all who, in light of the evidence, put their trust in Him.

(Rom 10:9-10 KJV) That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. {10} For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.
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devotionals may be under the headings of "discussions" "files" or "pages" )
http://groups.google.com/group/ixtheus-devotionals-archive-part-2?msg=new&lnk=gcis&hl=enhttp://groups.google.com/group/ixtheus-devotionals-archive/web?hl=enhttp://groups.google.com/group/ixtheus-devotionals-archive/webhttp://groups.google.com/group/ixtheus-archives-part-3/http://groups.google.com/group/ixtheus-devotionals-archive-4
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Bro Bob   IXTHEUS CHRISTIAN GROWTH Empty Re: Bro Bob IXTHEUS CHRISTIAN GROWTH

Post  Admin Tue 17 Feb 2009, 11:41 am

Dear Friends in Christ,I have received so many warm greetings and blessings from you all in these last few days that I find it difficult to answer them all individually. For this reason, I wanted to write this word of THANKS for all this encouragement to me and my ministry. This is a very important thing to me as it shows me how much you are benefiting from the Word of God and these studies.Thank you once again and God Bless you richly.In Christ....brother bob...<><
Prayers of Supplication and Worship (Mat 7:7-8 KJV) Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you: {8} For every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened. 1 Tim 2:1-4 (KJV) I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men; {2} For kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty. {3} For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour; {4} Who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth. James 5:16bThe effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much. PRAYER, n. In a general sense, the act of asking for a favor, and particularly with earnestness.1. In worship, a solemn address to God , consisting of adoration, or an expression of our sense of God's glorious perfections, confession of our sins, supplication for mercy and forgiveness, intercession for blessings on others, and thanksgiving, or an expression of gratitude to God for his mercies and benefits. A prayer however may consist of a single petition. "To Intercede" means to plead or make requests directly with God on behalf of another or others. It also means, "seeking an audience with God to plead on behalf of someone else" {Webster's}. The Holy Spirit enables Christians to pray for extended periods of time with great positive effect for the needs of others, and the building of the Kingdom. All Christians have the right to intercede with God on behalf of themselves or others. Acceptable prayer must be sincere offered with reverence and godly fear, with a humble sense of our own insignificance as creatures and of our own unworthiness as sinners, with earnest importunity, and with unhesitating submission to the divine will. Prayer must also be offered in the faith that God is, and is the hearer and answerer of prayer, and that he will fulfil his word. No rules are anywhere in scripture laid down for the manner of prayer or the attitude to be assumed by the suppliant. There is mention made of kneeling in prayer, of bowing and falling prostrate, of spreading out the hands, and of standing. But an effective prayer can be made the instant it is needed, and can be as simple as "God be merciful to me, a sinner". Supplication: Expressing a need to God. A humble petition in adoration, contrition or thanksgiving.
--------------------- AN EXAMINATION OF DANIEL'S PRAYER OF HUMILIATION AND REPENTANCE ON BEHALF OF THE SINS OF THE PEOPLE OF ISRAEL (Dan 9:2-10 KJV)PRAYER BASED ON THE READING OF GOD'S WORDIn the first year of his reign I Daniel understood by books the number of the years, whereof the word of the LORD came to Jeremiah the prophet, that he would accomplish seventy years in the desolations of Jerusalem. DELIBERATE INTENTION TO PRAY WITH PERSONAL HUMILIATION AND DEPRIVATION {3} And I set my face unto the Lord God, to seek by prayer and supplications, with fasting, and sackcloth, and ashes: CONFESSION OF SINS AND REPENTANCE{4} And I prayed unto the LORD my God, and made my confession, and said, CALLING OUT FOR MERCY FROM GOD O Lord, the great and dreadful God, keeping the covenant and mercy to them that love him, and to them that keep his commandments; SPECIFIC ENUMERATION OF SINS {5} We have sinned, and have committed iniquity, and have done wickedly, and have rebelled, even by departing from thy precepts and from thy judgments: {6} Neither have we hearkened unto thy servants the prophets, which spake in thy name to our kings, our princes, and our fathers, and to all the people of the land. ACCEPTING THE SHAME AND GUILT OF SIN {7} O Lord, righteousness belongeth unto thee, but unto us 'confusion of faces'{Heb=shame}, as at this day; to the men of Judah, and to the inhabitants of Jerusalem, and unto all Israel, that are near, and that are far off, through all the countries whither thou hast driven them, because of their trespass that they have trespassed against thee. {8} O Lord, to us belongeth confusion of face, to our kings, to our princes, and to our fathers, because we have sinned against thee. CALLING ON GOD FOR MERCY AND FORGIVENESS{9} To the Lord our God belong mercies and forgivenesses, though we have rebelled against him; {10} Neither have we obeyed the voice of the LORD our God, to walk in his laws, which he set before us by his servants the prophets.-------------------------- EXAMPLES OF SUPPLICATIONS AND TIMES OF REPENTANCE(Ezra 9:3-7 KJV) And when I heard this thing, I rent my garment and my mantle, and plucked off the hair of my head and of my beard, and sat down astonied{Heb=astonished}. {4} Then were assembled unto me every one that trembled at the words of the God of Israel, because of the transgression of those that had been carried away; and I sat astonied until the evening sacrifice. {5} And at the evening sacrifice I arose up from my heaviness; and having rent my garment and my mantle, I fell upon my knees, and spread out my hands unto the LORD my God, {6} And said, O my God, I am ashamed and blush to lift up my face to thee, my God: for our iniquities are increased over our head, and our trespass is grown up unto the heavens. {7} Since the days of our fathers have we been in a great trespass unto this day; and for our iniquities have we, our kings, and our priests, been delivered into the hand of the kings of the lands, to the sword, to captivity, and to a spoil, and to confusion of face, as it is this day. (Ezra 10:6 KJV) Then Ezra rose up from before the house of God, and went into the chamber of Johanan the son of Eliashib: and when he came thither, he did eat no bread, nor drink water: for he mourned because of the transgression of them that had been carried away. (Neh 1:4-11a KJV) And it came to pass, when I heard these words, that I sat down and wept, and mourned certain days, and fasted, and prayed before the God of heaven, {5} And said, I beseech thee, O LORD God of heaven, the great and terrible God, that keepeth covenant and mercy for them that love him and observe his commandments: {6} Let thine ear now be attentive, and thine eyes open, that thou mayest hear the prayer of thy servant, which I pray before thee now, day and night, for the children of Israel thy servants, and confess the sins of the children of Israel, which we have sinned against thee: both I and my father's house have sinned. {7} We have dealt very corruptly against thee, and have not kept the commandments, nor the statutes, nor the judgments, which thou commandedst thy servant Moses. {8} Remember, I beseech thee, the word that thou commandedst thy servant Moses, saying, If ye transgress, I will scatter you abroad among the nations: {9} But if ye turn unto me, and keep my commandments, and do them; though there were of you cast out unto the uttermost part of the heaven, yet will I gather them from thence, and will bring them unto the place that I have chosen to set my name there. {10} Now these are thy servants and thy people, whom thou hast redeemed by thy great power, and by thy strong hand. {11} O Lord, I beseech thee, let now thine ear be attentive to the prayer of thy servant, and to the prayer of thy servants, who desire to fear thy name: and prosper, I pray thee, thy servant this day, and grant him mercy in the sight of this man. (Neh 9:1-3 KJV) Now in the twenty and fourth day of this month the children of Israel were assembled with fasting, and with sackclothes, and earth upon them. {2} And the seed of Israel separated themselves from all strangers, and stood and confessed their sins, and the iniquities of their fathers. {3} And they stood up in their place, and read in the book of the law of the LORD their God one fourth part of the day; and another fourth part they confessed, and worshipped the LORD their God.--------------------------------
THE ACTIVITY OF THE HOLY SPIRIT IN OUR PRAYER LIFERom 8:26-28 (KJV) Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered. {27} And he that searcheth the hearts knoweth what is the mind of the Spirit, because he maketh intercession for the saints according to the will of God. {28} And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose. EXAMPLES OF A SERIOUS PRAYER WARRIORLuke 2:36-37 (KJV) And there was one Anna, a prophetess, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Aser: she was of a great age, and had lived with an husband seven years from her virginity; {37} And she was a widow of about fourscore and four years, which departed not from the temple, but served God with fastings and prayers night and day. THE INTERCESSORY PRIESTHOOD OF JESUS CHRISTHeb 7:22-27 (KJV) By so much was Jesus made a surety of a better testament. {23} And they truly were many priests, because they were not suffered to continue by reason of death: {24} But this man, because he continueth ever, hath an unchangeable priesthood. {25} Wherefore he is able also to save them to the uttermost that come unto God by him, seeing he ever liveth to make intercession for them. {26} For such an high priest became us, who is holy, harmless, undefiled, separate from sinners, and made higher than the heavens; {27} Who needeth not daily, as those high priests, to offer up sacrifice, first for his own sins, and then for the people's: for this he did once, when he offered up himself. THE HEAVENLY ELDERS IN WORSHIP OF THE LORD Rev 4:8-11 (KJV) And the four beasts had each of them six wings about him; and they were full of eyes within: and they rest not day and night, saying, Holy, holy, holy, Lord God Almighty, which was, and is, and is to come. {9} And when those beasts give glory and honour and thanks to him that sat on the throne, who liveth for ever and ever, {10} The four and twenty elders fall down before him that sat on the throne, and worship him that liveth for ever and ever, and cast their crowns before the throne, saying, {11} Thou art worthy, O Lord, to receive glory and honour and power: for thou hast created all things, and for thy pleasure they are and were created. THE ETERNAL WORSHIP AND SERVICE OF GODRev 7:11-17 (KJV) And all the angels stood round about the throne, and about the elders and the four beasts, and fell before the throne on their faces, and worshipped God, {12} Saying, Amen: Blessing, and glory, and wisdom, and thanksgiving, and honour, and power, and might, be unto our God for ever and ever. Amen. {13} And one of the elders answered, saying unto me, What are these which are arrayed in white robes? and whence came they? {14} And I said unto him, Sir, thou knowest. And he said to me, These are they which came out of great tribulation, and have washed their robes, and made them white in the blood of the Lamb. {15} Therefore are they before the throne of God, and serve him day and night in his temple: and he that sitteth on the throne shall dwell among them. {16} They shall hunger no more, neither thirst any more; neither shall the sun light on them, nor any heat. {17} For the Lamb which is in the midst of the throne shall feed them, and shall lead them unto living fountains of waters: and God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes.
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For further study, Check out these archives of past devotionals: (Note: the devotionals may be under the headings of "discussions" "files" or "pages" )
http://groups.google.com/group/ixtheus-devotionals-archive-part-2?msg=new&lnk=gcis&hl=enhttp://groups.google.com/group/ixtheus-devotionals-archive/web?hl=enhttp://groups.google.com/group/ixtheus-devotionals-archive/webhttp://groups.google.com/group/ixtheus-archives-part-3/http://groups.google.com/group/ixtheus-devotionals-archive-4

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Bro Bob   IXTHEUS CHRISTIAN GROWTH Elainesigredrose-1
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Bro Bob   IXTHEUS CHRISTIAN GROWTH Empty Re: Bro Bob IXTHEUS CHRISTIAN GROWTH

Post  Admin Tue 10 Feb 2009, 2:48 pm

Have you all thought about the event we call "Halloween" every year,
which America will be
celebrating next Friday night? There are so many ways we can take this
"holiday" and turn
it into an evangelistic event. Some churches are having "fall festivals"
or are celebrating
"Reformation Day", which is the same day as Halloween. Some Christians
will be at home
during this evening.
I have been thinking about something Ray Comfort said about "Halloween".
He said it is
the only time that people come to your door to receive something (Can't
remember his
exact words). His thought was that it is an open opportunity, right at
our door to, in a
sense, give the Gospel away. Some people will hand out tracts. A couple
of years ago,
I bought a whole bunch of 10 Commandment pencils, and didn't think about
this until
the day of Halloween, that I could hand them out to the kids. So I did,
but ran out of them quickly.
I was planning on doing this again this year, but yesterday, I saw,
along with the "Halloween"
candy, bags of Play-dough that you could give to the kids. So, I have
this bright idea, that
I will put a sticker on each little can of Play-dough, that says (as an
acronym), BIBLE
Basic Instructions Before Leaving Earth. I made the stickers up on my
word processor, and will
print them out on label paper, and cut them out and stick one on each can.
I even thought about making up stickers and sticking them on the wrapped
candy! There are quite
a few little sayings or quotes to put on them, or better yet, Bible
verses can go right on the
candy.

Wishing each of you many evangelism opportunities!
Susan S.
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Bro Bob   IXTHEUS CHRISTIAN GROWTH Empty Re: Bro Bob IXTHEUS CHRISTIAN GROWTH

Post  Admin Tue 10 Feb 2009, 2:48 pm

Sent: 12/10/2008 15:08
Un-Masking Halloween
author unknown

1 Th 5:22-24 (KJV)
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.
{24} Faithful is he that calleth you, who also will do it.

Halloween, also known as the witches’ new year, originated among the ancient Druid priests from Britain and France. It commemorated the end of summer and the beginning of the Celtic year. The celebration was considered the highest festival of the year called Samhain (sah-ween). It was named after Saman, the god of the dead.

The Druids not only believed that the dead came back to mingle among the living on this night, but that demons, witches and hobgoblins were also released in droves to harass and oppress the living. The Celts also believed that the sinful souls of those who had died during the year had been transferred to the bodies of animals. Through gifts and sacrifices their sins were atoned for and their souls were set free. Samon judged the souls and decreed whether they would continue as a human or an animal.

Bonfires, animal and human sacrifices and ritualistic offerings to the dead were common during this Feast of Samhain. It was believed that human blood opened up the gates of the dead and released the spirits for the night. To protect themselves, many Druids would dress up as devils, witches and ghouls and would even involve themselves in demonic activities to ward off an attack.

In a bold evangelistic move designed to demonstrate that only the power of Jesus Christ could protect men and women from the fiery darts of Satan, the early church moved a festive celebration of their own called "All Saints Day" from the month of May to November 1st. They renamed it "All Hallows’ Eve", from which we get the name Halloween. The evening before November 1 (October 31) was set aside as a HOLY EVENING in remembrance of those who had suffered martyrdom for their belief and faithfulness to Jesus Christ.

Unfortunately, this Holy Evening has become anything but holy. There has been little or no effort on the part of the "church" (us) to renew the original purpose for which this day was intended. On the contrary, many churches and Christians today are compromising their faith on Halloween just so their children don’t feel left out of the festivities. I believe we have allowed things in our homes and churches that are an abomination to God.

TRICK OR TREAT - This modern custom of going door to door begging for candy while masked and dressed in costumes goes back to the pagan New Year’s Feast. It was thought as long as the living set out bowls of fruit and other treats for the demons, witches and ghosts to partake of, then they might leave that home untouched. When your child goes door to door yelling "trick or treat" he is re-enacting that ancient superstition.

JACK-O-LANTERN - in America it’s a pumpkin but in Europe it was usually a turnip that had the fact of a demonic spirit carved in it. The smiling face was symbolic of the mocking spirit that laughed at the fate of it’s victims. Candle-lit Jack-O-Lantern or skull’s heads also symbolized that the occupants of that house were sympathetic to the evil spirits and would hope to receive mercy and favor.

We can ill-afford to sit around any longer and remain ignorant about Halloween. Our children need to be taught that there is nothing cute in pretending to be a friend of the enemy for a few hours. It only took one apple for Adam and Eve to be deceived. Who are we to think that going to strangers houses or a haunted house or a school Halloween party is any less appealing to a young mind. If I had a child in grade school, you can bet they’d miss school the last day of October. Why! Ask any school administrator which holiday receives the most money, time, energy and bulletin boards and I guarantee it won’t be Christmas, Easter or Martin Luther King Day. Halloween wins hands down. For those who think that’s a coincidence, think again. Hitler wasn’t the only one who knew that those who have the youth have the future.

At this point many will argue, "Come on. It’s just Halloween, I’m not worshipping anyone. It’s just harmless fun." Is it? Our children are already growing up in such a contradictory society, do we have to add to it? Can’t we at least give them the stability of worshipping the one true God, only?

The popular teen magazine "Sassy", printed an article last year entitled "Witchcraft is a Religion", subtitled "And a very cool one at that" (March 1992). The author praised witchcraft for it’s environmentalist and self-esteem building features. She explained why Halloween was important to witches and some of the meaning of the evening. The magazine article concluded by quoting a witch named Laurie: "Witchcraft is a connectedness to everything, so you can center yourself and feel as if you can control some of your environment a little more. I think teenagers today need their own power."

I also agree that teenagers today need more power, but it sure isn’t the power she’s talking about. It’s the power of the Holy Spirit that enables a young person to stand up and boldly and unashamedly proclaim the Gospel of Jesus Christ. That starts when parents care enough to not just let anyone deceive or give candy to their babies.

Bible-believing Christians cringe and shudder at the thought of Satan worship and occult rites. But, how many of these same people will dress their children as witches, ghosts, skeletons or devils and send them out to "trick-or-treat"? How many smile approvingly at the church or Sunday School and youth organizations that have Halloween parties and sponsor "haunted house" activities?

Can any Christian give any scriptural - or even logical- reason for participating in, or approving of, that which is unmistakably associated with paganism, devil-worship and witchcraft?

Deuteronomy 18: 10--13 explicitly forbids Christians to have anything to do with witchcraft, spiritism or the demonic. 1 Thesalonians 5:22 tells us to abstain from all appearance of evil.

You may say, "I don’t let my child dress as demonic characters, only Biblical ones. Our church has a ‘Harvest Party’ and my kids go to it instead of going out to ‘Trick or Treat’. So, we’re not taking part in the demonic Halloween stuff." Well, this may be true. But, we are told in God’s Word that we are not to love the things of this world. (1 John 2:15) (James 4:4) Though we are in it, we are not to be part of it. How is it that different to have a "Harvest Party" with costume or to have a "Halloween Party" with costume. This is still copying after the world.

I have seen small children, even babies, dressed for Halloween. You can’t say that the children are the ones who want this. They don’t even know what it is. It is the parents who are teaching them about these things. Deuteronomy 6 tells us what we are to teach our children, and it has nothing to do with demonism or demonic "Holy days."

Finally, let me just say that this is not a time to simply curse the darkness. It’s also a time to turn on the "Light". Teach your children that Satan isn’t some character running around in red tights with horns and a pitchfork. They need to know that he is very real and his goal is to steal, kill and destroy. Reassure them, however, that "you are of God, little children, and have overcome them (evil spirits) because He who is in you is greater than he who is in the world." (1 John 4:4)



--------------------------------------------------------------------------------


John 8:12 KJV
Then spake Jesus again unto them, saying,
I am the light of the world:
he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness,
but shall have the light of life.

Ezek 44:23 KJV
And they shall teach my people the difference between the holy and profane,
and cause them to discern between the unclean and the clean

Fear is not of God.

2 Timothy 1:7 KJV
"For God hath not given us the spirit of fear,
but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind."

1 John 4:18 KJV
"There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear;
because fear hath torment..."

Deut 18:10 KJV
There shall not be found among you
any one that maketh his son or his daughter to pass through the fire,
or that useth divination, or an observer of times,
or an enchanter, or a witch.

Deut 18:11 KJV
Or a charmer, or a consulter with familiar spirits,
or a wizard,
or a necromancer (=one who claims to talk to the dead)

Deut18:12 KJV
For all that do these things are an abomination unto the LORD:
and because of these abominations
the LORD thy God doth drive them out from before thee.

Gal 5:19-21 KJV
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.

Lev 20:6 KJV
And the soul that turneth after such as have familiar spirits,
and after wizards, to go a whoring after them,
I will even set my face against that soul,
and will cut him off from among his people.
Eph 5:11 KJV
And have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness,
but rather reprove them.
Lev 20:7 KJV
Sanctify yourselves therefore, and be ye holy:
for I am the LORD your God.
1Cor 10:19-20 KJV
What say I then? that the idol is any thing,
or that which is offered in sacrifice to idols is any thing?
{20} But I say, that the things which the Gentiles sacrifice,
they sacrifice to devils, and not to God:
and I would not that ye should have fellowship with devils.
1Cor 10:21 KJV
Ye cannot drink the cup of the Lord, and the cup of devils:
ye cannot be partakers of the Lord's table,
and of the table of devils.
Rom 12:2 KJV
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.
1Thess 5:21-22 KJV
Prove all things; hold fast that which is good.
{22} Abstain from all appearance of evil.

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Post  Admin Tue 10 Feb 2009, 2:47 pm

Sent: 12/10/2008 15:08
How to Use Halloween as a Night of Witnessing

(Mat 5:14-16 KJV)
Ye are the light of the world.
A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid.
{15} Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick;
and it giveth light unto all that are in the house.
{16} Let your light so shine before men,
that they may see your good works,
and glorify your Father which is in heaven.
Dear Friends in Christ,
For many years, and when our kids were growing up, we distributed "Chick Tracts" from the ministry of Jack Chick at Halloween by doing exactly what one of the suggestions below said, we would drop a little cartoon Gospel tract into the trick or treater's bag along with a piece of candy. As they grew older, our kids preferred to not go out "trick or treating", but instead to stay home and hand out the tracts themselves.

And it is true, many of the trick-or-treaters would walk away from our house reading their tracts as they went to the next house, even stopping on the sidewalk for quite a while as they read instead of gathering candy. Only as we get our rewards in heaven will we adequately understand the impact of this simple act of evangelism.

If you are not familiar with Chick Tracts, they are very direct and concise, and really "tell it like it is", sometimes to the shock of some adults that read them. But to kids, they are irresistaible. We kept a stack of them around the house from a sample package we obtained, and the kids would just sit around on their beds for hours and read them. They often told us how much they appreciated them.

Anyway, as Halloween approaches, we can use this opportunity to reclaim some ground from Satan, who is trying to get our kids interested in the demonic and occult practices in many ways, including the seemingly innocent observance of Halloween. As the time of the end is quickly approaching, and even as more people than ever are searching a little more deeply into life because of the events of September 11, let's take this opportunity to do the Lord's work that is given to us. Check out the Chick Tract website, and give your neighborhood kids a "treat" that will last into eternity.

In Christ.......brother bob.....<><

Prov 11:30 (KJV)
The fruit of the righteous is a tree of life;
and he that winneth souls is wise.
PS: Go to this website to see a sample of the Illustrated Bible Tract,

"The Little Ghost" from Chick Tracts

http://www.chick.com/reading/tracts/1010/1010_01.asp



--------------------------------------------------------------------------------


From the Chick Web Site...

http://www.chick.com/seasonal/halloween/tractuses.asp0

Here are a few unique ways you can use Chick tracts this Halloween

1) When Trick-or-Treaters parade to your door this Halloween, drop a couple of Chick tracts in their bag, along with some candy. Or, to really get them excited, stock a tray with several different Chick tracts. (See )When children arrive, place the tray in front of them and let them pick any two tracts. (Be sure to give them candy too.) Kids love receiving unique gifts, like cartoon tracts. And they love picking the ones they want. Your home could be their favorite stop of the night. With Chick tracts, you can witness to every child who comes to your door. Plus, they'll take the tracts home, where their parents will read them too!

"..a trick or treater (about 12 years old) got his candy and the tract I dropped into his bag. He came back later and asked if we had any more tracts - his dad wanted to read them." CA
A Christian told us about the first time he used Chick tracts on Halloween:
"I placed 100 THE PRESENT beside my Halloween candy, just before the first child arrived. I decided, 'No, better not' ...when a burst of faith entered my heart... not to fear the consequences. The kids loved them. It was a thrill. Chick tracts really do get read."

2) A Chick tract user wrote us with this idea: "On Halloween a team from my church hit the streets armed with Chick tracts and their Bibles. As we walked the streets we hollered to the kids "Free comic books," and they swarmed around us. In all, we passed out over 2,000 tracts."

"I must thank you for saving me. In 1969 I was 10 years old and quite reluctant to go to church to worship God (I would rather stay home and watch cartoons on TV). My spiritual life would turn around on October 31, 1969. On that day, during the evening I went out Trick-or-Treating (My Halloween costume was an Astronaut). After the night was over I emptied my bag of the "goodies" I acquired, when I noticed a pamphlet entitled "Somebody Goofed" which somebody had inserted in my bag. As I read it I began to realize the consequences of not accepting Jesus Christ as my Savior. THANK YOU! I'm indebted to you and that unknown Christian for saving me."

3) On Halloween, many churches have activities for their youth inside the church. Meanwhile, hundreds, sometimes thousands of unsaved neighborhood kids pass by these buildings looking for treats. Turn the devil's holiday into a huge soul winning event by setting up a table in front of your church and stocking it with several different Chick tracts (plus some candy). Let Trick-or-Treaters grab as many different tracts as they want. One church did this and reports exciting results:

"None of the Trick-or-Treaters could resist the cartoon tracts, and we reached more neighborhood kids with the gospel in that one night than we had reached all year."

4) A Christian shared what her church does each Halloween. "Our church has an annual 'Trick-or-Treat' night. We go out in groups of two or three, knock on doors and say, 'Trick-or-Tract.' When people answer, instead of requesting a treat, we offer them a combination of tracts, bundled in rubber bands. This will be our third year, and so far it has been wonderfully received. It's also a great opportunity to get people of all different ages in our church involved in evangelism. It's helped bring people out of their shells, and drawn us closer to one another."

5) A school bus driver discovered a great way to use Halloween to spread the gospel. She passed out bags containing candy and Chick tracts to the students on her bus. She reports, "I noticed that they were reading the tracts. A couple times I had discussions with the teenagers about the tracts. This gave me the opportunity to share Bible scriptures, stories and to witness."

6) Instead of the usual haunted house, a small church in Georgia set up a series of rooms containing dramatic portrayals of real life situations. One shows a bloody car accident, another displayed the horrors of abortion. A sordid drug scene was included along with a ghastly satanic ritual. The last room contained a scorching walk through hell. At the end, trick-or-treaters were given a gospel tract on the way out.

7) Watch for community activities that attract large crowds. One town in Kansas has a week-long, city-wide celebration called Neewollah (Halloween spelled backwards). It included a parade and carnival, a queen contest and musicals. All of these activities attract a lot of people, allowing soul winners to quickly get the gospel into many hands. The pastor reported, "The tracts were readily accepted and very few people refused them. We stamped our church name on the back and our members passed out 1800 tracts."

8) At Halloween, an Ohio church added Chick Halloween tracts to the information packet which they leave at each home. A church member commented, "We know especially that with the Chick tracts they are going to get read. If they throw the packet away, they will still have the church information on the back of the tract."

9) Many churches buy a supply of Chick tracts and hand them out to their members to drop into Trick-or-Treat bags on Halloween. One church in New York had great success distributing 2,000 Trick-or-Treat bags which included a Chick tract and some candy. Another pastor spent some time teaching his church about the history of Halloween. He then provided Chick tracts for the families to distribute when the night came. "Many people are surprised when they learn the actual meaning of Halloween," he said.

10) One church was asked by a local food bank to supply literature that would go into food boxes. The church gave them a supply of Chick tracts.

Here are seven benefits of giving out Chick tracts on Halloween:

Get the gospel to everyone in your neighborhood.
Reach people you couldn't reach any other time of year.
It's easy! Just drop Chick tracts into Trick-or-Treat bags.
It's convenient! You don't even have to leave your home.
It's fun! Kids love them. Many will even thank you for the unique gift.
It will train your own kids to use this witnessing opportunity.
You'll rejoice at turning a pagan holiday into a witnessing time.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

continued........
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Post  Admin Tue 10 Feb 2009, 2:46 pm

Praise God for the Beauty of His Holiness

2 Chr 20:21 (KJV)
And when he had consulted with the people,
he appointed singers unto the LORD,
and that should praise the beauty of holiness,
as they went out before the army, and to say,
Praise the LORD;
for his mercy endureth for ever.

Psa 7:17 (KJV)
I will praise the LORD according to his righteousness:
and will sing praise to the name of the LORD most high.

Psa 107:8-15 (KJV)
Oh that men would praise the LORD for his goodness,
and for his wonderful works to the children of men!
{9} For he satisfieth the longing soul,
and filleth the hungry soul with goodness.
{10} Such as sit in darkness and in the shadow of death,
being bound in affliction and iron;
{11} Because they rebelled against the words of God,
and contemned the counsel of the most High:
{12} Therefore he brought down their heart with labour;
they fell down, and there was none to help.
{13} Then they cried unto the LORD in their trouble,
and he saved them out of their distresses.
{14} He brought them out of darkness and the shadow of death,
and brake their bands in sunder.
{15} Oh that men would praise the LORD for his goodness,
and for his wonderful works to the children of men!

2Sa 22:2-4 KJV
And he [David] said,
The LORD is my rock, and my fortress, and my deliverer;
(3) The God of my rock; in him will I trust:
he is my shield, and the horn of my salvation,
my high tower, and my refuge, my saviour;
thou savest me from violence.
(4) I will call on the LORD, who is worthy to be praised:
so shall I be saved from mine enemies.

1 Chr 23:30 (KJV)
[the Levites] stand every morning to thank and praise the LORD,
and likewise at even;

Psa 22:22-28 (KJV)
I will declare thy name unto my brethren:
in the midst of the congregation will I praise thee.
{23} Ye that fear the LORD, praise him;
all ye the seed of Jacob, glorify him;
and fear him, all ye the seed of Israel.
{24} For he hath not despised nor abhorred the affliction of the afflicted;
neither hath he hid his face from him;
but when he cried unto him, he heard.

{25} My praise shall be of thee in the great congregation:
I will pay my vows before them that fear him.
{26} The meek shall eat and be satisfied:
they shall praise the LORD that seek him:
your heart shall live for ever.
{27} All the ends of the world shall remember and turn unto the LORD:
and all the kindreds of the nations shall worship before thee.
{28} For the kingdom is the LORD'S:
and he is the governor among the nations.

Psa 33:1-5 (KJV)
Rejoice in the LORD, O ye righteous:
for praise is comely for the upright.
{2} Praise the LORD with harp:
sing unto him with the psaltery and an instrument of ten strings.
{3} Sing unto him a new song; play skilfully with a loud noise.
{4} For the word of the LORD is right;
and all his works are done in truth.
{5} He loveth righteousness and judgment:
the earth is full of the goodness of the LORD.

Rev 5:11-13 KJV
And I beheld,
and I heard the voice of many angels round about the throne and the beasts and the elders:
and the number of them was ten thousand times ten thousand, and thousands of thousands;
(12) Saying with a loud voice, Worthy is the Lamb that was slain
to receive power, and riches, and wisdom, and strength, and honour, and glory, and blessing.
(13) And every creature which is in heaven, and on the earth, and under the earth,
and such as are in the sea, and all that are in them, heard I saying,
Blessing, and honour, and glory, and power, be unto him that sitteth upon the throne,
and unto the Lamb for ever and ever.
(14) And the four beasts said, Amen.
And the four and twenty elders fell down and worshipped him that liveth for ever and ever.

Psa 107:31 (KJV)
Oh that men would praise the LORD for his goodness,
and for his wonderful works
to the children of men!

Psa 95:1-9 KJV)
O come, let us sing unto the LORD:
let us make a joyful noise to the rock of our salvation.
{2} Let us come before his presence with thanksgiving,
and make a joyful noise unto him with psalms.
{3} For the LORD is a great God, and a great King above all gods.
{4} In his hand are the deep places of the earth: the strength of the hills is his also.
{5} The sea is his, and he made it: and his hands formed the dry land.
{6} O come, let us worship and bow down: let us kneel before the LORD our maker.
{7} For he is our God; and we are the people of his pasture, and the sheep of his hand.
To day if ye will hear his voice, {8} Harden not your heart, as in the provocation,
and as in the day of temptation in the wilderness:
{9} When your fathers tempted me, proved me, and saw my work.

(Psa 19:1-10 KJV)
To the chief Musician, A Psalm of David.
The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament showeth his handiwork.
{2} Day unto day uttereth speech, and night unto night showeth knowledge.
{3} There is no speech nor language, where their voice is not heard.
{4} Their line is gone out through all the earth, and their words to the end of the world.
In them hath he set a tabernacle for the sun,
{5} Which is as a bridegroom coming out of his chamber, and rejoiceth as a strong man to run a race.
{6} His going forth is from the end of the heaven, and his circuit unto the ends of it:
and there is nothing hid from the heat thereof.
{7} The law of the LORD is perfect, converting the soul:
the testimony of the LORD is sure, making wise the simple.
{8} The statutes of the LORD are right, rejoicing the heart:
the commandment of the LORD is pure, enlightening the eyes.
{9} The fear of the LORD is clean, enduring for ever:
the judgments of the LORD are true and righteous altogether.
{10} More to be desired are they than gold, yea, than much fine gold:
sweeter also than honey and the honeycomb.

(Psa 33:1-15 KJV)
Rejoice in the LORD, O ye righteous: for praise is comely for the upright.
{2} Praise the LORD with harp: sing unto him with the psaltery and an instrument of ten strings.
{3} Sing unto him a new song; play skilfully with a loud noise.
{4} For the word of the LORD is right; and all his works are done in truth.
{5} He loveth righteousness and judgment: the earth is full of the goodness of the LORD.
{6} By the word of the LORD were the heavens made;
and all the host of them by the breath of his mouth.
{7} He gathereth the waters of the sea together as an heap: he layeth up the depth in storehouses.
{8} Let all the earth fear the LORD: let all the inhabitants of the world stand in awe of him.
{9} For he spake, and it was done; he commanded, and it stood fast.
{10} The LORD bringeth the counsel of the heathen to nought:
he maketh the devices of the people of none effect.
{11} The counsel of the LORD standeth for ever, the thoughts of his heart to all generations.
{12} Blessed is the nation whose God is the LORD;
and the people whom he hath chosen for his own inheritance.
{13} The LORD looketh from heaven; he beholdeth all the sons of men.
{14} From the place of his habitation he looketh upon all the inhabitants of the earth.
{15} He fashioneth their hearts alike; he considereth all their works.

Psa 107:21-22 (KJV)
Oh that men would praise the LORD for his goodness,
and for his wonderful works to the children of men!
{22} And let them sacrifice the sacrifices of thanksgiving,
and declare his works with rejoicing.


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