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Review: A Journey in Purity: A Theological Novel

saxophone.n.theology@gmail.com (jjobrien) — Thu, 06 Apr 2023 16:41:00 +0000

A Journey in Purity: A Theological Novel by Richard P. Belcher Jr.
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

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🎧 4 Hours of ⛈ Rain and 🎹🎧 Calm Music - 📔 read, pray, meditate

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🎧 1 Hour of Relaxing 🌲 Rain and 🎹 Cinematic Music - 🕮 Study, 📔 reading, sleep, relax, concentrate

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My first short

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Guest post: 10 Reasons Why We Should Read the Bible

saxophone.n.theology@gmail.com (jjobrien) — Wed, 27 Jan 2021 04:51:00 +0000

This post is brought to you by the folks at Heroes Bible Trivia. Heroes 2 : The Game is a Bible trivia game released by the Hope Channel. It is a sequel to the game, Heroes, which was released way back in 2013. The latest game version is on its new 3D animation, comes with unique features, and has more challenging Bible questions in four languages: English, Portuguese, Spanish, and French. The game is available on both iOS and Android.

Editorial note: This app is copyrighted by the General Conference Corporation of Seventh-day Adventists. While the views expressed in this article are, for the most part, consistent with the views of the owner of www.jcsandberg.net, the doctrine of the SDA church is not necessarily representative of the views of the other authors on or owner of the site. Links to other websites do not imply a recommendation for all the content found on these sites.

Reading the Bible is one of the essentials of the Christian life.

But do you do it? If so, how often? What helps you keep the habit going? If not, what keeps you from doing so? Are you busy with so many things that you don’t have time for it? Or, you don’t find it interesting?

There are ten reasons why you should read the Bible. Let us find out.

What is the Bible?

The English term “Bible” originates from the Latin Biblia and the Greek Biblos. It means “books.” Specifically, it is a compilation of 66 books and letters.

There are other terms scholars use. For instance, they refer to it as the Holy Scriptures. Also, they call it the Scripture or Scriptures. Together, these mean “writings.”

The Bible is the Word of God. As such, it serves as the sacred scriptures of Judaism and Christianity.

Besides, forty authors wrote this sacred book. The writing work took them approximately one thousand and five hundred years.

The authors initially used three languages – Hebrew, Aramaic, and Greek. In particular, Hebrew and Aramaic are evident in the Old Testament. On the other hand, Greek is in the New Testament.

What Does It Contain?

The Divisions and Their Sections

The Bible has two divisions – Old Testament and New Testament.

The Old Testament has 39 books. The first one is Genesis, while the last is Malachi. Now, these are its five parts:

Law or Pentateuch – Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy
History – Joshua, Judges, Ruth, 1 Samuel, 2 Samuel, 1 Kings, 2 Kings, 1 Chronicles, 2 Chronicles, Ezra, Nehemiah, and Esther
Poetry and Wisdom – Job, Psalms, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, and Song of Songs
Major Prophets – Isaiah, Jeremiah, Lamentations, Ezekiel, and Daniel
Minor Prophets – Hosea, Joel, Amos, Obadiah, Jonah, Micah, Nahum, Habakkuk, Zephaniah, Haggai, Zechariah, and Malachi

On the other hand, the New Testament contains 27 books. It starts with Mathew and ends with Revelation. Now, these are the five sections:

Gospels – Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John
Acts of the Apostles – the book of Acts
Paul’s Epistles and Hebrews – Romans, 1 Corinthians, 2 Corinthians, Galatians, Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians, 1 Thessalonians, 2 Thessalonians, 1 Timothy, 2 Timothy, Titus, Philemon, and Hebrews
General Epistles – James, 1 Peter, 2 Peter, 1 John, 2 John, 3 John, and Jude
Apocalypse - the book of Revelation

General Content and Themes

Generally, the Bible is an account of God’s love and wonders.

Also, it enumerates stories about good and bad people. It even features battles and journeys. Most of these are supernatural events.

For instance, the book of Exodus depicts the escape of the Israelites from Egypt. They crossed the Red Sea, which miraculously parted in two by the power of God.

Moreover, there are narratives and dialogues. They come in the form of proverbs and parables. Also, they exemplify in songs and allegories.

For example, the book of Psalms lists down David’s songs of praise. Meanwhile, Jesus’ parables are in the book of Matthew. An example is the parable of the prodigal son.

More importantly, the Bible narrates the life of Jesus on earth. The Gospel books contain His birth, childhood, ministry, death, and resurrection.

Finally, the Bible tells about the prophecy. Specifically, these are signs of the second coming of Christ. The Lord showed these to the prophets in the form of dreams and visions.

Examples of these include wickedness, war, and turmoil. Also, there will be great calamities such as earthquakes. Besides, false prophets will emerge, spreading false teachings about God.

Most importantly, the prophecy foretells about the final sign of the Second Advent. That is when the work of evangelism gets into all the world. Afterwhich, Jesus will come.

What are Ten Reasons Why We Should Read It?

It allows us to fellowship with God.

Because of sin, we cannot see God. Fortunately, the Bible provides us means of communication. Studying it leads us to prayer, meditation, and worship.

Moreover, spending time with our loved ones develops a bond. The quality of time we give them strengthens the relationship. Similarly, quality time with God results in a mature spiritual walk.

It provides instructions for life.

The Bible serves as a compass or guide for life.

Specifically, it educates us with the lessons of life. Through the stories and parables, we learn good moral values. These are honesty, respect, love, loyalty, and others.

As a result, our character grows into God’s likeness. Also, we determine how to treat other people well.

Besides, the Bible teaches us how to deal with different circumstances. We learn how to handle our emotions. Thus, we make sound decisions resulting in a successful life.

Finally, the Bible gives us wisdom. Psalm 119:130 mentions that the unfolding of the Word gives light. Also, it grants understanding even to simple people.

It helps us develop ourselves.

The Bible helps us know ourselves better.

That is, we are children of God. He created us in His image. Psalms 139:14 states that God made us “fearfully and wonderfully.” Thus, we live to serve and glorify Him.

Furthermore, the Word changes the way we think. It transforms the heart and the soul. Also, it nourishes and grows our character.

As a result, we bear the fruit of the Holy Spirit. These are love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, and self-control.

With these, we learn to fear God, as Deuteronomy 17:19 emphasizes. It leads to maturity in the ways of God. Eventually, we develop spiritually. Ephesians 6:17 says that “the helmet of salvation…is the Word of God.”

It lifts our burdens and brings hope.

What are your challenges right now? Do these burdens sometimes make you feel like giving up?

Indeed, life is complicated. But have you wondered how Jesus’ life on earth had been? Do you think that the problems we have could compare to His?

God knows all our pain and suffering. Reading the Bible makes us realize this comforting truth. Then, isn’t it enough to answer life’s most difficult questions?

Indeed, the Bible gives us hope and encouragement. It inspires us to go on with life’s ups and downs. “In His great mercy, He has given us new birth into a living hope.” It is what 1 Peter 1:3 reminds us.

It delivers and protects us from sin.

Sin has cursed the world. It has brought about negative impacts on our lives. As a result, we hold ourselves guilty before God.

Unfortunately, guilt hinders us from advancing in our spiritual walk. Also, it brings down the wrath of God. Thus, the truth of the Word cannot set us free from sin’s condemnation. Christ’s blood and righteousness won’t work well on our behalf as well.

Good news! Reading and studying the Bible gives us freedom from sin. Hebrews 10:22 mentions that it cleanses us from a dirty conscience. Hence, we approach God with a clean heart and sincere intentions.

The Bible does not only free us from the destructive effects of sin. More importantly, it helps us avoid temptations that lead to sinning.

It safeguards us against false teachings.

Especially nowadays, the world bombards us with false ideas. For instance, there is misleading advertising. Invitations are enticing, only to know they are mere lies. Also, most assumptions are non-biblical.

Fortunately, the Bible is our standard measure. We can use it to test if something is right or not. Proverbs 16:25 says that there are things that appear to be true. Unfortunately, they lead to death.

Hence, we cannot rely on feelings, emotions, and opinions. They are deceiving. Comfortingly, the Bible leads us to the truth.

John 8:32 says that “the truth will set you free.” For instance, you know the truth about Christ’s second coming. Hence, with faith and obedience, it promises you the freedom of salvation and eternity.

It helps us prosper and succeed in life.

What is your dream life? Are you dreaming of wealth or fame? Are you chasing freedom of health, time, and finances?

The Bible gives more than these. While worldly success is only temporary, heaven’s salvation is eternal.

Moreover, the Word keeps life on track. Psalm 119:1 reminds us that it is a light to our path. Also, it guides our direction. Eventually, it leads us to righteousness in Christ.

It explains the mysteries of life.

Life has a lot of fascinating mysteries, do you agree? There are many things we can’t fully comprehend.

Nature alone poses questions even science can’t explain. We can hardly understand some things in the universe. For instance, no one knows what life exactly is beyond the Milky Way Galaxy.

We can only believe what science has discovered so far. Yet, not all theories and laws may be accurate as to what God knows.

Likewise, we can’t explain the very nature of God. Yes, we know that “in the beginning was the Word.” John 1:1 states it clear that “the Word was God.”

However, we don’t know exactly how the existence of God all started. From where did He come? Do you have any idea?

The Bible does not reveal all the mysteries of life and God. However, it gives us assurance in Deuteronomy 29:29. Specifically, “the secret things belong to the Lord.” It continues, “...but the things revealed belong to us.”

Therefore, only God knows everything. It is not that He is hiding from us. It is just that our limited human comprehension can never grasp His very nature. We will only know the answers when we get to heaven with Him.

It strengthens our faith.

When you know someone well, you learn to love him. Consequently, you lend him your trust. Likewise, knowing God through His Word leads us to develop a mature faith in Him.

Faith can move mountains. It means trusting God even if the world falls. No matter what it takes, we have an assurance that He will never forsake us. According to Hebrews 11:1, faith is the conviction of things we haven’t seen yet.

But how can we have faith? More importantly, how can we strengthen it?

Romans 10:17 says that “faith comes from hearing the Word.” By studying the Bible, we learn more about the character of God. Hence, we rely on Him.

It leads us to salvation.

Salvation is our ultimate goal. We work our way toward it. However, we cannot do it on our own. Instead, we need God’s power and the Holy Spirit’s sanctification.

Fortunately, the Bible provides ways on how we can earn it. John 3:16 gives us an answer.

Specifically, it says that Christ’s death on the cross has justified us. It has given us a ticket to heaven. To earn salvation, we need to have faith in Him.

Also, we need to go through the process of sanctification. It means being holy and set apart from the rest. It is possible only through the help of the Holy Spirit.

VIDEO GOSPEL MESSAGE: THIS WAS YOUR LIFE

saxophone.n.theology@gmail.com (jjobrien) — Mon, 27 Jul 2020 16:32:00 +0000

Please watch. You do not know when you will die. Everyone dies. "It is appointment men once to die, and then to face judgment."

VIDEO: John MacArthur: A Triumphant Hour for the Church, and Fresca

saxophone.n.theology@gmail.com (jjobrien) — Mon, 27 Jul 2020 04:39:00 +0000

I'm absolutely ashamed of myself. I don't want to be afraid anymore. Thank you, Pastor John, for rightly representing Jesus in this lost and corrupt world.

VIDEO: How Evangelism Works by Justin Johnson

saxophone.n.theology@gmail.com (jjobrien) — Thu, 16 Jul 2020 23:52:00 +0000

Guest blog by Justin Johnson of Grace Ambassadors

"How Evangelism Works"

Find the original post here.

So many fantastic thoughts here. Good godly preaching.

VIDEO: We're Facing A PARAMILITARY Operation Backed With BIG BUCKS: Dinesh D'So...

saxophone.n.theology@gmail.com (jjobrien) — Tue, 16 Jun 2020 22:00:00 +0000

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Smooth (by Rob Thomas, arr. Doug Adams) scratch track

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Passion Week Devotional: "My God, My God, why hast thou forsaken me?" from Matthew 27:46

saxophone.n.theology@gmail.com (jjobrien) — Thu, 09 Apr 2020 02:35:00 +0000

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Passion Week Devotional: "My God, My God, why hast thou forsaken me?" from Matthew 27:46

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Multitrack Video (split screen) Let the Words by Take 6

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Multitrack Video (split screen) Let the Words by Take 6

saxophone.n.theology@gmail.com (jjobrien) — Thu, 19 Mar 2020 00:14:00 +0000

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Why your church shouldn't play Hillsong or Bethel (or Elevation) Music)

saxophone.n.theology@gmail.com (jjobrien) — Sat, 08 Feb 2020 19:38:00 +0000

Right doctrine matters. Prove me wrong.

28 DAYS THAT COULD CHANGE YOUR LIFE

saxophone.n.theology@gmail.com (jjobrien) — Thu, 02 Jan 2020 04:27:00 +0000

Starting TODAY and PLEASE do it EVERY MONTH (12 Times this year) GRACE & PEACE <3 span="">

28 DAYS THAT COULD CHANGE YOUR LIFE - No it is not a diet program, it is not a nutritional program, it is not an exercise program. It is a program for reading through Paul's epistle in one month. Why don't you join me?

01 Romans 1-3

02 Romans 4-6

03 Romans 7-9

04 Romans 10-12

05 Romans 13-16

06 1 Corinthians 1-3

07 1 Corinthians 4-6

08 1 Corinthians 7-9

09 1 Corinthians 10-12

10 1 Corinthians 13-16

11 2 Corinthians 1-3

12 2 Corinthians 4-6

13 2 Corinthians 7-9

14 2 Corinthians 10-13

15 Galatians 1-3

16 Galatians 4-6

17 Ephesians 1-3

18 Ephesians 4-6

19 Philippians 1-4

20 Colossians 1-4

21 1 Thessalonians 1-3

22 1 Thessalonians 4-5

23 2 Thessalonians 1-3

24 1 Timothy 1-3

25 1 Timothy 4-6

26 2 Timothy 1-2

27 2 Timothy 3-4

28 Titus 1-3 & Philemon 1

GUEST POST: Why the Old Man Hates To Read the Bible

saxophone.n.theology@gmail.com (jjobrien) — Mon, 30 Dec 2019 06:32:00 +0000

from https://graceambassadors.com/life/why-the-old-man-hates-to-read-the-bible

Why the Old Man Hates To Read the Bible

By Justin Johnson

The most praised book that is read the least must be the Bible. People buy multiple copies and don’t even read it!

Every year a multitude of new books are published about the Bible which people are eager to buy.

Only a few of these are any good, but a lot of them are read because it is easier to read books about the Bible than the Bible itself.

Our old man hates reading the word of God, but loves to boast in man’s wisdom. Books about the Bible can be a trap to the flesh to ignore the Bible. Our carnal old man will vainly glorify the Bible as a book, but will neglect actually using it. Beware.

Romans 7:18 says that in our flesh is no good thing, and I believe it.

The Bible is not a product of the flesh, and it does not satisfy the flesh to use it. Our old man opposes the study of God’s words, choosing rather to read books written by great men instead of the one book written by the Almighty God and our Lord.

The old man needs to be reckoned dead, crucified with Christ. Our old man wants nothing to do with the book that preaches its own death. Inevitably, the old man robs people from studying the Bible and blinds them from seeing the truth about life in Christ.

“Likewise reckon ye also yourselves to be dead indeed unto sin, but alive unto God through Jesus Christ our Lord.” – Romans 6:11

When we see that in our flesh is no good thing, then we know that the same is true of every man and their books.

That the Bible is praised but not read is a sign that the old man is alive and well. Our old man will resist the words of the Bible when given the opportunity to trust in men’s words.

The Snare of Books

It may be said, “But there are helpful things in books written by men.”
Indeed, it is true that books serve a good purpose.

Reading good books can be helpful and profitable for a time, but never as a substitute for the one book that came from the mouth of God designed for your knowledge of the truth. Whereas many books are useful for reading only once, the Bible is only useful if read continually.

The snare of reading great works of men is the lie that there is some good in human wisdom. The snare of our vain flesh is to think that God’s words are no different than any man’s words. The Bible says the opposite: true wisdom is God’s wisdom; man’s wisdom is nothing. God’s wisdom is found only in the Bible.

“…the foolishness of God is wiser than men; and the weakness of God is stronger than men.” 1 Cor 1:25
All the treasures of wisdom are hid in Christ.

“In whom are hid all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge. And this I say, lest any man should beguile you with enticing words.” – Col 2:3-4

The old man wants to declare that there is wisdom that it can produce. The Bible tells it to shut up and play dead (Rom 3:19).

“For the wisdom of this world is foolishness with God. For it is written, He taketh the wise in their own craftiness. And again, The Lord knoweth the thoughts of the wise, that they are vain.” – 1 Cor 3:19-20

The Bible is inspired by the Creator of the universe and is different than every other book on the shelf. No other book compares when your goal is to grow in wisdom.

GUEST POST: 23 Reasons You Should Stop Tithing

saxophone.n.theology@gmail.com (jjobrien) — Mon, 30 Dec 2019 06:12:00 +0000

from https://graceambassadors.com/downloads/tracts/23ReasonsTithingNotForYou_Trifold.pdf

23 Reasons You Should Stop Tithing

By Justin Johnson of Grace Ambassadors

Among pastors, there is a terrible abuse of using law tithing to place the church back under the condemnation of the law. This must be stopped.

“Whose mouths must be stopped, who subvert entire households, teaching things which they ought not to, for the sake of dishonest gain.” Titus 1:11

Jesus taught the church of Paul’s dispensation a better way of giving without the law. This resource is not intended to dissuade giving generously to the Lord’s causes. God loves generosity as a reflection of your thanksgiving to Him. While this resource explains why Paul’s doctrine teaches you to stop law tithing, God does not teach lesser generosity.—2 Corinthians 9:7

1. We are not under the law of tithing. Tithing was part of the law. We are no longer under the law. (Rom 6:14)

2. Tithing was only for certain people. Tithing was only required of people who had increase from the land (farmers, etc) (Deut 14:23)

3. Tithes are food, not money. If someone wanted to turn tithes into money, they had to pay a 20% penalty. (Lev 27:30-33)

4. The church is not God’s covenant people (please read on, and even comment, before heresy is named). The old and new covenants were made with Israel and Judah, and so the requirements were never intended for Gentiles (Heb 8:8). Gentiles could be blessed by honoring Israel and worshipping Israel’s God.

5. The Levitical priesthood does not exist today. The most popular tithe today is the tithe that went to the Levitical priesthood (Num 18:21). There is no Levitical priesthood today.

6. The pastor does not replace the priest. Preachers and teachers in the body of Christ church are not priests. Christ is the only mediator (1 Tim 2:5).

7. We do not inherit Israel’s land. The tithe given to the Levites was because they had no land inheritance (Numbers 18:21).

8. Tithes are to be brought to the temple in Jerusalem. Jews today don’t tithe because there is no temple in Jerusalem to bring the tithes (Deut 12:5-11)

9. There are no more temple sacrifices. Since Christ paid our sin debt, there is no need to pay (tithe) someone else to do this service for us.

10. The local church does not replace the temple. Know ye not that you are the temple of God, not your building! (1 Cor 3:16)

11. The church does not observe required feast day celebrations. It was three times a year in Deut. 16:16. At certain feast days is where the tithes would be offered. One tithe even allowed you to stay home and spend it on what you desired (Deut 14:26).

12. Law tithing requirements were greater than 10 percent. Deut 14:28 is one example of the tithe on the increase every 3 years that was above the regular Levitical tithe. There are other required offerings also according to Mal 3:9.

13. The law of tithing is weak. A required tithe does not change the heart or the action. It always requests more, is not a gift, and is merely fulfilling an obligation (Mat 23:23, Gal 4:9, Rom 8:3)

14. Melchizedek doesn’t apply today. Abram’s tithe was taken from the spoils of his enemies in response to a unique blessing, and it only happened once (Gen 14: 18-19, Heb 7:4)

15. Law tithing obligates the doer to the entire law — (Gal. 5: 3, James 2: 10)

16. Physical blessings are no longer granted. The law tithe taught physical blessings to Israel from God for tithing (Mal 3:10). Without a covenant with God, a priesthood, a promise, or a temple tithing for profit will not work.

17. Christ has given the church all spiritual blessings. Those blessings are in heavenly places in Christ (Eph 1:3)

18. Peace with God is attained without tithing — Rom 5: 1

19. God provides all our needs without tithing. Phil 4:19 says your needs are supplied according to his riches in glory in Christ. What you need is not physical, it is spiritual.

20. We work to provide for our physical needs in this dispensation. Paul makes it clear that if we don’t work we don’t eat (2 Thess 3:10). Mat 6:11 and Mal 3:10 are not effective now since the church today is not Israel. If we do not provide for our own today we are “worse than an infidel” (1 Tim 5:8)

21. The tithe was required. Giving today is not “of necessity” (2 Cor 9:7). This is an important distinction between generosity and obligation.

22. The law tithe places you under a curse. If you do not continue tithing then you can be cursed (Gal 3:10)

23. Christ has redeemed you from the law of tithing. Law tithing represents ignorance or negligence of Christ’s cross (Gal 3:13, 1 Cor 1:17, Gal 2:21).

Accelerate Books Giveaway (link inside!)

saxophone.n.theology@gmail.com (jjobrien) — Tue, 10 Dec 2019 01:10:00 +0000

Check Out The Puritan Paperback & MLJ Romans Set Giveaway!

Help me win all the Puritan Paperbacks and Martyn Lloyd-Jones Romans commentary set.

I think you might want a chance to win too. Enter here: https://swee.ps/LbPXeywaf

GUEST POST: The Bible Without Paul By Arthur J. Licursi

saxophone.n.theology@gmail.com (jjobrien) — Fri, 29 Nov 2019 21:39:00 +0000

This is a sensitive post for me. This could indict me as a heretic because, frankly, I am very concerned by the absence of Pauline theology in today's preaching. Without Paul, Christians cannot simply be Christians. I invite criticism. Please refrain from ousting me as a heretic for now. No one wants that thrust upon them. However, please consider the following. What does salvation look like without Paul? Also consider 1st and 2nd Peter without Paul. So much of 1st Peter is Paul regurgitated. 2nd Peter affirms Paul as Scripture. That all said, read on with Berean eyes and a compassionate heart.

The Bible Without Paul

by Arthur J. Licursi

Introduction:

This study is based upon what sprang to mind as I later pondered what I heard of a message from Casey Groeneveld. I also borrowed his title for it.

This study is based upon the supposition that the Apostle Paul and his writings could be removed from the Bible.

In this study we will consider what Biblical hope the Gentile has toward gaining an eternal saving relationship with God, …while leaving aside the writings of the Apostle Paul and “the dispensation of the grace of God” that came to the body of Christ through him.

I expect that this study will serve to show us the absolute crucial importance of God’s Apostle to the Gentiles, Paul, with his calling and his unique gospel message for the Gentiles. Romans 11:13 For I (Paul) speak to you Gentiles, inasmuch as I am the apostle of the Gentiles…

Paul here tells us the Gentile situation that existed before Paul’s “gospel of the grace of God (Act 20:24)” was revealed and proclaimed by Paul

Ephes. 2:11-12 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; 12That 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:

The first mentioning of the man who would later become the Apostle to the Gentiles, Paul, appears in Act 7:58.

Acts 7:58 And cast him (Stephen) out of the city, and stoned him: and the witnesses laid down their clothes at a young man's feet, whose name was Saul.

Paul was there, at the stoning of Stephen, tending the clothes of those who executed Stephen.

As a Jew, Saul of Tarsus later took his Greek name, Paul.

Viewing the Bible without the important information and unique gospel that comes to the body of Christ only through the Apostle Paul, will serve to clarify and heighten the importance of Paul’s “mystery gospel,” given to him by Jesus Christ for the Gentiles.

We will lay aside the account of Paul in the Book of The Acts of the Apostles and Paul’s fourteen Epistles. A survey of the Scriptures in this way will make it plain to see that…beginning with the time of the call of Abraham, the Gentiles have been and are “without hope and without God.”

Let’s Now REMOVE PAUL from the Bible

We will remove the rest of the book of Acts from Acts 7:58 (Stephen’s stoning) onward. The rest of Acts primarily is the account of Paul’s life and travels. This includes Paul’s conversion on the road to Damascus, the appearance of Christ to Paul, Paul’s many sufferings, Paul’s conflict with the law-keeping religion of the Messianic believing Jews in Jerusalem, and his powerful ministry toward the Gentiles. As he journeyed throughout the known world he preached his unique gospel of the pure grace of God, which was apart from the law and racial distinction. He received this gospel from the ascended Christ (Gal 1:12). Then also we will remove his fourteen epistles, Romans–Hebrews.

Let’s then see what we have remaining of the Scriptures that would possibly give hope for an eternal saving relationship of the Gentiles with God.

Now let’s begin our Bible survey.

As we review Bible history we will note that after about 2,000 years from Adam’s creation, man had become so wicked that God set all mankind aside, except for one man and his family, Abraham. God told that man, Abraham, that his seed or lineage would become a great nation through whom God would bless the whole world of mankind.

Genesis 12:2 And I will make of thee (Abraham) a great nation, and I will bless thee, and make thy name great; and thou shalt be a blessing:

Genesis 18:18 Seeing that Abraham shall surely become a great and mighty nation, and all the nations (heathen, Gentiles) of the earth shall be blessed in him.

God was to bless mankind with the call of Abraham and his seed. From the time of God calling of Abraham the rest of mankind was set aside from relationship with God. Mankind, other than Abraham’s seed, was to be called Gentiles, in distinction with Abraham and his seed. Later, Abraham’s seed was to be called Israel, named for Abraham’s grandson Jacob, whose name was later changed to Israel. Israel’s twelve sons are named among the 12 tribes of Israel. Israel as a nation was intended to ultimately become God’s channel of blessing to the entire world, including the Gentiles.

From the call of Abraham onward, until salvation came to the Gentiles through Paul’s gospel, the Gentiles were “Gentiles in the flesh…having no hope, and without God in the world (Eph 2:11-12)”.

In the history of the Bible we have a 400-year period of silence from God. God, the prophets and writer of Scripture were silent from the time between late in the Old Testament, when God’s presence left the Jewish Temple, and the coming of Jesus of Nazareth – the Son of God.

Then the Messiah, Jesus, came to Israel, the children of Abraham. Jesus came in conjunction with the fulfillment of God’s promises to Abraham and his seed, concerning a kingdom on earth. We must realize the coming of Jesus of Nazareth was first to and for Israel. Matthew 15:24 …I (Jesus) am not sent but unto the lost sheep of the house of Israel.

Jesus was on a mission from the Father. Jesus of Nazareth made it clear as to who He came with this good news that He is the King of the Kingdom that was to come to earth for Abraham’s seed – Israel, was now at hand. So, in the so-called four Gospels, we have the account of Jesus of Nazareth who came to Israel only (not to the Gentiles). Jesus proclaimed “the kingdom,” that had been long promised to Israel as Abraham’s seed, was now “at hand.” Matthew 4:17 … Jesus began to preach, and to say, Repent: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.

We see no hope yet for the Gentiles toward gaining an eternal saving relationship with God.

Is John 3:16 the Hope of the Gentiles?

A key to proper Bible study and interpretation is that we must note to whom the words recorded are spoken and about whom these words concern. As students of the Bible we can learn and gain from ALL God-breathed Scripture, but not necessarily all that is written is about us or to us as Gentiles.

We’ve noted that the coming of Jesus was first to and for Israel only. Matthew 15:24 …I (Jesus) am not sent but unto the lost sheep of the house of Israel.

Jesus also instructed His disciples to do the same – to exclude the Gentiles.

Matt 10:5-6 These twelve Jesus sent forth, and commanded them… Go not into the way of the Gentiles, and into any city of the Samaritans enter ye not: 6 go rather to the lost sheep of the house of Israel.

We must view even the Christian’s most quoted John 3:16 as a verse within the Gospel account of what Jesus spoke to the Jews ONLY, when He came and announced that the Messianic Kingdom of heaven for the Jews was now at hand. The Messianic Kingdom was to come to the earth as had been promised to Abraham, as to be everlasting inheritance on earth. Nearly every word of Jesus in regard to His purpose was spoken to the Jews, and exclusive of the Gentiles, with only a few exceptions. (E.g. Samaritan women at the well, Pilate, etc.)

John 3:16 For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.

Most Christians will say, “See, John 3:16 says whosoever believeth. That means everyone and anyone who believes can be saved”. But this simply is not true to the context of the Bible or the time in which Jesus was speaking. The first rule of Bible interpretation (hermeneutics) is to determine to whom the speaking party is speaking – Jesus was only speaking to the Jews. So long as there is a distinction between Jew and Gentile then “whosoever” does not apply to everyone. It is only for the “whosoever” of Israel.

(The only all-inclusive “whosoever” was to come later through Paul’s gospel is for both Jew and Gentile who make up the one body of Christ. This is the only Bible gospel that is without distinction by race.

Galatians 3:27-28 For as many of you as have been baptized (placed) into Christ have put on Christ. 28There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus. )

So far, we see “no hope” for the Gentiles who had been set aside with the call of Abraham.

Israel’s Pentecost

We may think that hope for the Gentiles would have come by Pentecost – But it was not to be. Read here what Peter said on the day of Pentecost – note who he was addressing. It was Israel.

Acts 2:22 Ye men of Israel, hear these words; 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:

Acts 2:36 Therefore let all the house of Israel know assuredly, that God hath made that same Jesus, whom ye have crucified, both Lord and Christ.

Then, in Acts 6, we see Israel’s religious law-keepers stoning of Stephen to death. Stephen was one of the “little flock (Luke 12:32),” the Messianic believers in Jesus.

Acts 6:12 And they stirred up the people, and the elders, and the scribes, and came upon him (Stephen), and caught him, and brought him to the council,

Acts 7:51 Ye (Jews) stiffnecked and uncircumcised in heart and ears, ye do always resist the Holy Ghost: as your fathers did, so do ye.

Acts 7:54-59 When they heard these things, they were cut to the heart, and they gnashed on him with their teeth. 55But he, being full of the Holy Ghost, looked up stedfastly into heaven, and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing on the right hand of God, 56And said, Behold, I see the heavens opened, and the Son of man standing on the right hand of God. 57Then they cried out with a loud voice, and stopped their ears, and ran upon him with one accord, 58And cast him out of the city, and stoned him: and the witnesses laid down their clothes at a young man's feet, whose name was Saul.

Stephen saw Jesus standing (not sitting) as though He was ready to return and bring the kingdom if the Nation would repent and receive Him. Yet, they rejected Jesus again.

This account is Israel’s 3rd rejection of the Triune God, now by rejecting the Holy Spirit, the third Person of the triune Godhead.

Well then, so far, we still have “no hope” for the Gentiles – they remain set aside, having no relationship with God.

Some Important Bible History

Let’s reconsider the previous account of the stoning of Stephen along with some more facts concerning Gentiles on a historical basis, as they may relate to Israel.

In the time of Old Testament Israel a Gentile could become a Jew, a proselyte, by…

- taking the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob,

- circumcision, and

- keeping the law.

In order to keep the law a Gentile needed the Priesthood and the Temple worship with its sacrifices that God had prescribed through Moses.

Let’s now see what has happened to Israel’s Temple and the Priesthood of God.

Before the coming of Jesus of Nazareth, all the Scripture writings of God were written in Hebrew. After that time, due to the conquering of Palestine by Alexander the Great, it was made a law that Greek would be the only language to be used. Thus, the New Testament writings are in Greek.

- Before the time when Jesus came, Israel had already rejected God by killing the prophets of the Old Testament.

- Now they rejected the Son of God by crucifying Him.

- Then they rejected the Holy Spirit by stoning Stephen.

With this rejection of God; Israel as a nation, then made a final rejection of God in Acts 28:28. This occurred sometime between AD68-70. It is no accident that Herod’s Temple for the Jews in Jerusalem was destroyed in 70AD, along with the Jewish Priesthood.

Judaism then, essentially, had become a dead religion. Israel then lacked the accoutrements that were critical to their structured relationship with and worship of God.

Therefore, no Gentile could proselyte in order to become a Jew in that way after that time.

Let’s now proceed with our survey of The Bible Without Paul, still looking for a way of salvation for the Gentiles.

Something of Note - from Paul:

Let’s consider this installment as a parenthesis in our study.

I realize our premise is that Paul’ writings are set aside in our Bible without Paul. But here it would be good to understand the sequence of the events in the Bible that lead to Paul coming on the scene.

Paul was briefly introduced with the earlier referenced Acts 6 account of the stoning of Stephen, “a man full of the Holy Spirit,” as the third rejection of God, God now sets Israel aside.

God then set aside the Jews with the Stoning of Stephen, as He had set aside the Gentiles at the time of the call of Abraham. So then both the Jews and Gentile were set aside. This is what Paul refers to when he says “there are none righteous, no not one (Rom 3:10).”

This all is in preparation for God to do an entirely new thing with a new gospel through a new messenger who would reveal the depths of the purpose of Jesus’ incarnation, suffering, dying, resurrection and ascension.

With the setting aside of both Gentile and Jew, God was now to do something that had been “hid in God” (Eph 3:9) and eternally “purposed in Christ Jesus” (Eph 3:11), while it was “kept secret since the world began” (Rom 16:25). This SECRET PLAN OF God was not made known to any of the Bibles prophets, patriarchs or writers, until it was first revealed to the Apostle Paul.

This new relationship and gospel for man was to be built upon “grace by faith, without works.” It began in Chapter 9 of Acts with the conversion of Saul of Tarsus. There we see the ascended Christ come down from heaven to appear to Saul of Tarsus, saving him and gave Him this brand new gospel message for the Gentiles and some believing Jews (Gal 3:28), who both had been previously set aside.

They both now stand without distinction – no more as Jew or as Gentile – all are one in “the body of Christ”.

The Israel as a nation, remains set aside. Paul tells us what has happened to the nation Israel. He reveals when God will restore Israel to the Kingdom on earth, which had been long promised to Abraham and his seed.

Romans 11:25 For I would not, brethren, that ye should be ignorant of this mystery, lest ye should be wise in your own conceits; that blindness in part is happened to Israel, until the fulness of the Gentiles be come in.

But, since we have taken Paul out of the Bible, we must skip these understandings that come only from Paul. So, we will continue on to see if there still is a hope for the Gentiles, apart from Paul’s new pure grace gospel.

So, if we skip Paul, things at this point, with the stoning of Stephen, still appear hopeless for the Gentiles toward gaining an eternal saving relationship with God.

But, let’s now go on in the Bible to find hope for the Gentiles.

Remember now, we have a Bible without Paul, so we must skip all Paul’s writings and references to Paul. So, the next writings we will note in the canon of Scripture are James’ epistle, Peter’s Epistles, and John’s Epistles.

These books are also written to… “the lost sheep of the house of Israel,” not the Gentiles. These disciples were under Jesus’ admonition to “go not in the way of the Gentiles, but rather to the lost sheep of the house of Israel.”

Most Bible Scholars agree that these books are addressed to the Israel as the Diaspora, the scattered of Israel – called the Jews, and also called the 12 tribes of Israel. Here is an example.

James 1:1 James, a servant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ, to the twelve tribes which are scattered abroad, greeting.

1 Peter 1:1 Peter, an apostle of Jesus Christ, to the strangers scattered throughout Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia, and Bithynia,

Well then, still, we see no hope here for the Gentiles.

Now, as we continue our search for “hope for the Gentiles,” we come to the very last book of the Bible the Book of Revelation.
AT LAST, WE NOW FIND SOME HOPE FOR THE GENTILES in Rev 6 and 7.

BUT WAIT, look at what it takes for Gentiles to be saved.

This Scripture is describing the Tribulation period, where “a third part” of all mankind will die (Rev 9:18). All” means even a third part of believing Israel will die. Only a remnant will be saved to live on, into the Millennium.

In Rev 7:4 we see 144,000 Jewish evangelists. Rev. 7:4 And I heard the number of them which were sealed: and there were sealed an hundred and forty and four thousand of all the tribes of the children of Israel. We note that there are people “of all nations” who will be saved through the message of these Messianic Jewish evangelists. That means Gentiles will be saved to the gospel that these Jewish Messianic evangelists preach.

Note below, those who are standing before God are “of all nations, and kindreds, and people, and tongues” – including Gentiles. Rev. 7:9 After this I beheld, and, lo, a great multitude, which no man could number, of all nations, and kindreds, and people, and tongues, stood before the throne, and before the Lamb, clothed with white robes, and palms in their hands;

The grace gospel dispensation had passed, the rapture had occurred already, so the only message they could be saved by was the Jewish gospel of the Messianic Kingdom to come to earth, with its laws. It is the power of salvation for all the nations at that time. In this way Israel finally is a blessing to all nations as God had promised Abraham. All they need to do was believe and hold to their testimony. Many believed and died for their testimony, but …they did make it to the Lord’s presence in heaven.

Rev. 6:9 And when he had opened the fifth seal, I saw under the altar the souls of them that were slain for the word of God, and for the testimony which they held:

Rev. 7:14 ... These are they which came out of great tribulation, and have washed their robes, and made them white in the blood of the Lamb.

For Gentiles to be saved with no Pauline Scripture message of grace, they will have to become converted to Judaism, hold to their testimony and likely be slain to have a saved relationship with God. Anyone who takes the mark of the beast will not be slaughtered, but those who do NOT take the mark of the beast will be killed.

Rev. 13:16-17 And he causeth all, both small and great, rich and poor, free and bond, to receive a mark in their right hand, or in their foreheads: 17And that no man might buy or sell, save he that had the mark, or the name of the beast, or the number of his name.

Therefore, Gentiles, as men of all nations who are alive at that time will have a way to be saved apart from Paul’s “dispensation of the grace of God.” 1) They must become converted to Messianic Judaism 2) keep the commandments 3) They must not take the mark of the beast 4) Keep their testimony. Many will die.

Rev. 14:12-13 Here is the patience (endurance) of the saints: here are they that keep the commandments of God, and the faith of Jesus. 13And I heard a voice from heaven saying unto me, Write, Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord from henceforth: Yea, saith the Spirit, that they may rest from their labours; and their works do follow them.

Now we have seen what it will require for a Gentile to be saved when we look at The Bible Without Paul.
With Judaism as a dead religion since it was set aside nobody is saved by Judaism, And, without the grace gospel that came by Paul, Gentiles would have to

- endure the Tribulation, at least for a time

- believe the Messianic Kingdom gospel message of the 144,000 Jewish evangelist

- keep the commandments

- and likely be martyred

Then a Gentiles would become as a Jew, saved in the Messianic Kingdom on earth!

Wouldn’t it be a more wonderful way for us Gentiles to simply receive Paul’s gospel message of God’s love now, given in the person of the crucified and resurrected Christ, as the foundation of salvation that was laid by the Apostle Paul.

1 Cor. 3:10-11 According to the grace of God which is given unto me, as a wise masterbuilder, I (Paul) have laid the foundation, and another buildeth thereon. But let every man take heed how he buildeth thereupon. 11For other foundation can no man lay than that is laid, which is Jesus Christ.

Let’s take heed to Paul’s unique gospel of “Christ” seeing Him “according to the revelation of “the mystery” that had been “kept secret since the world began (Rom 16:25b)?”

Romans 16:25 Now to him that is of power to stablish you according to my gospel, and the preaching of Jesus Christ, according to the revelation of the mystery (musterion, the secret gospel that only God can reveal), which was kept secret since the world began.

Apart from Paul’s writings, we miss out on the riches that belong to “the Church, which is His body,” which is neither “Jew nor Gentile” (Gal 3:28). Only Paul reveals the church (ekklesia, “the assembly) that he calls “the church, which is his body” - “the body of Christ.” Paul prays (Eph 1:15-18) that we might know the riches of Christ that are in the Saints, by virtue of “the mystery” revealed first to the Apostle Paul – “which is Christ in you, the hope of glory. (Col 1:27b)”
Let’s note the doctrines and truths that are unique to Paul’s gospel.

The “Dispensation of the Grace of God”
Ephes. 3:1-4 For this cause I Paul, the prisoner of Jesus Christ for you Gentiles, 2If ye have heard of the dispensation of the grace of God which is given me to youward: 3How that by revelation he made known unto me the mystery; (as I wrote afore in few words, 4Whereby, when ye read, ye may understand my knowledge in the mystery of Christ)
“The Mystery” or The Secret Plan of God that has been hid since the world began
Ephes. 3:9 And to make all men see what is the fellowship of the mystery, which from the beginning of the world hath been hid in God, who created all things by Jesus Christ:

Col. 1:27 To whom God would make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles; which is Christ in you, the hope of glory:

Salvation by grace through faith, apart from works
Ephes. 2:8-9 For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: 9Not of works, lest any man should boast.

Reconciliation of man with God
Col. 1:21-22 And you, that were sometime alienated and enemies in your mind by wicked works, yet now hath he reconciled 22In the body of his flesh through death, to present you holy and unblameable and unreproveable in his sight:

The Baptism BY the Holy Spirit for the body of Christ (Not in the Holy Spirit)
1 Cor. 12:13 For by one Spirit are we all baptized (placed) into one body, whether we be Jews or Gentiles, whether we be bond or free; and have been all made to drink into one Spirit.

“The Church, which is the Body of Christ”
Ephes. 1:22-23 And hath put all things under his feet, and gave him to be the head over all things to the church, 23Which is his body, the fulness of him that filleth all in all.

The Rapture of the Church
1 Thes. 4:15-17 ... 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. 16For 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: 17Then 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.

The Present Location of Paradise
2 Cor. 12:4 How that he (Paul) was caught up into paradise, and heard unspeakable words, which it is not lawful for a man to utter.

GUES POST: "Without Paul" by Justin Johnson of Grace Ambassadors

saxophone.n.theology@gmail.com (jjobrien) — Thu, 28 Nov 2019 04:10:00 +0000

Without Paul

By Justin Johnson

The popular saying is, “you don’t know what you have ‘til it’s gone.” For too long the Lord’s special revelation to Paul has received second or [third-hand] treatment to the ‘red letters’ and prophecy.

I propose an experiment in the spirit of Dickens’ Christmas ghosts. Let’s pretend Paul was never saved on the road to Damascus. What would happen to the church if Paul was never given his revelation of the mystery from the Lord?

Temporarily remove Paul’s epistles from the Bible. There are thirteen books from Romans to Philemon. Take them all out. You will also need to take out Paul’s ministry in the book of Acts also. Acts nine and onward should be removed as well.

Now, let’s draw an adequate picture of what remains.

Church without Paul

Without Paul, the last testimony from the church we see is the church in the temple from Acts 2-5. This group is led by Peter and the other eleven apostles.

They are continuing with the Lord’s commissions in Mark 16, Mat 28, Luke 24, and John 20. Accompanying their ministry are extraordinary powers which the Holy Ghost utilizes for signs of the coming kingdom (Mark 16:17).

Jesus had instructed the apostles in the end of his ministry to remain in Jerusalem until they received the word, then go to Judea, and Samaria, and so on. By Acts 8 the church was scattered except for the apostles who were obedient to these instructions (Acts 8:1).

In Peter’s footsteps the message we teach is that these are ‘the last days’, ‘repent and be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins’, and the only preaching of the cross is that it was a horrible murder (Acts 2:17, 38, and Acts 5:30).

We would need to follow the Lord’s instructions, and the apostles’ example, by selling all that we have and have all things in common (Luke 12:33, Acts 2:45, Acts 4:34).

Salvation would be of the Jews (John 4:22), and we would be taking part in ushering in the kingdom which will be [awaiting] the Lord’s return to Israel (Acts 1:6, Isa 2:2-4).

You would not understand the cross (Luke 18:34), and you would offer faith in Jesus the Messiah and the works of the law for justification (James 2:24). What you would never do is go in unto a Gentile’s house who was not a devout observer of the law (Acts 10:28).

Of course, since it has been nearly 2000 years since Peter first uttered the ‘last days’ claim, it may be time for a reassessment of the entire Jewish kingdom prophetic program. Perhaps, God’s promises have come to naught (Rom 9:6)?

Paul’s Writings Alone

Isn’t it strange how close ministry without Paul describes the modern church who has not given place to Paul’s office (Rom 11:13)?

Without Paul’s writings, you will not be able to prove the most basic doctrines, including:

– Salvation by grace through faith
– Justification apart from the law
– Full atonement of your sins through the death and resurrection
– A church body of both Jew and Gentile
– The fall of Israel and God’s prophetic silence for nearly 2000 years
– A heavenly position in Christ

As Scofield said so well nearly a century ago, “in [Paul’s] writings alone we find the doctrine, position, walk, and destiny of the church.” Removing Paul’s writings makes this truth a stark reality.

How little we appreciate the message Jesus gave to Paul to dispense, and the pattern we have for ministry in the Apostle Paul’s writings (1 Cor 9:17, 1 Tim 1:16). It is about time the church obeyed Jesus’ instructions to “follow Paul” (1 Cor 4:16).

jcsandberg.net

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It strengthens our faith.

It leads us to salvation.

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