THE HALL OF FAITH!

Come with me now as we walk down the Hall of Faith to view the lives of great men and women of faith. We will see faith in action, faith in sacrifice and faith unto death. Faith that overcomes fear and doubt. The kind of faith that brings victory over every trial and circumstance we face.

First we will discover together what true faith is, what it means to you in your everyday life and the future God has planned for you.

THE EXPLANATION OF BIBLICAL FAITH.

What is faith?

Paul in his letter to the Hebrew Christians in chapter eleven explains the meaning of faith.

“NOW FAITH IS THE SUBSTANCE OF THINGS WE HOPE FOR AND THE EVIDENCE OF THINGS WE CANNOT SEE.”

Hebrews 11:1      

Hope sees the Physical… Faith sees into the Spiritual World.

The New Living Translation puts it this way.

“NOW FAITH IS THE CONFIDENCE IN WHAT WE HOPE FOR AND THE ASSURANCE OF WHAT WE SEE.”

The Passion translation states it this way.

“NOW FAITH BRINGS OUR HOPES INTO REALITY AND BECOMES OUR FOUNDATION NEEDED TO AQUIRE THE THINGS WE LONG FOR.”

Our heroes from the Hall of Faith testify to the kind of faith we need from previous generations to enable us to walk by faith and not by sight.

I strongly recommend that you read this chapter slowly and carefully several times. Stop and meditate upon each character as they, through faith and by faith, accomplish extraordinary things, yes, even miracles for the glory of God.

Right from the creation of the world and the unseen world that exists simultaneously.       

“THE JUST SHALL LIVE BY FAITH.

Hebrews 10:35.

Faith must be your driving force to enable you to survive in this dark world of sin.

Your conversion to Christ was an act of faith. You cannot be saved unless you believe in Christ’s finished work by His birth, death, and resurrection.

You cannot exist without exercising faith in your life. Faith empowers you to step out in obedience to God’s promises; it means taking a risk to obey, even when you can’t see the outcome of that decision.

Why? Because “He is faithful who calls you, and He will do it through you.”

Faith is also a Spiritual gift from God, and as we exercise it, it grows and changes from “Little faith to Great faith.”

Always keep in your mind that it is His faith in and working through you. He is always the direction of your faith.                                    This means that you possess “miracle-working faith” that can break through every power of evil, heal the sick, raise the dead and remove the mountains of impossibility.

Jesus is the author and finisher of our faith. Do you realise that God has placed within you an immeasurable dynamite potential to change the world… You, yes you! 

You copy Christ, and you will do the greater things. You can win souls for Christ; even the most complex criminal will submit to the Gospel. The highly addicted drug addict can be set free from its power. You will cast out demons in His name.

In the meantime, He is melting away all your inhibitions and transforming you into His image.

Start small and watch your faith grow… Just do it !

Gone are the days when you attended church, took in all the outstanding teaching, and did nothing. In these last days, you have been urged to count the cost and pay the price to reach people with the gospel of Christ.

It’s not easy, so it takes faith—the faith of Christ working in and through you. You trust and obey. You obey by faith, then trust! 

Make Jesus Lord of your life, surrender all to him, holding nothing back, and you will be totally surprised by what He will do with and because of you.

Amen.

Philippians 4:13.

This is a challenge to all Christians, pass it on to those God puts on your heart. Press the share button.

May the Lord raise you up to do the impossible by faith for the glory of God.

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INTRODUCTION.

PAUL ENCOURAGES PERSECUTED BELIEVERS.

Hebrews was written to new believers of that Church who were exposed to fierce persecution, including physical assault and imprisonment.

The author is said to be Paul the Apostle due to its style of writing.

Weary from intense Tribulation, Jewish Christians in particular were tempted to return to  the familiarity of their old faith.

This left the writer of the book of Hebrews with a significant task of convincing these believers the necessity of drawing close and holding fast to Jesus.

Therefore in Hebrews Christ is the zenith (the highest form) of God’s redemptive plan – being prophesied under the Old Covenant and fulfilled in the New.

Hebrews bridges the gap between the old and the new Covenant of Judaism and Christianity.

In Christ, we are free from the law (a happy condition). Jesus has shed His blood, and there is remission. We were cursed by the law and damned by the fall. Hallelujah, Christ has redeemed us … Once and for all!

Paul’s letter to the Hebrews is a masterpiece of Biblical theology, demonstrating the supremacy of the Lord Jesus Christ, who is “GOD IN THE FLESH,” God’s final revelation to man.        

In this beautiful book, there is no mention of the Doctrine of the Church; it goes beyond to the utmost goal of our Christian experience… He created us for a personal, individual fellowship with Himself. A pure fellowship of  “perfect love.”

Our sin severed that oneness we could have had naturally with Him and His plan of redemption opened the way to have intimacy with God. It’s possible to draw very close to God and enjoy rich fellowship with Him.

Always keep short accounts of sin by confession and claim the forgiveness that he offers to each one of us. Then your fellowship will be sweet and glorious, knowing the very heartbeat of the Lord your God.

The nine chapters of Hebrews sweeps us on to this present age, till the Lord’s return and to the millennial Kingdom and the great White Throne even to the  ultimate, New. Heaven and the new Earth.

HEBREWS: THE SPECIAL ASPECT.

To understand the real significance of this Hebrew Epistle, we must appreciate its “Standpoint.”

It corresponds with that of Leviticus in relation to Exodus.

All the sacrifices and offerings typify aspects of our Lord’s suffering and sacrifice on the cross of Calvary and the benefits for those of us who are set free. Now, under the New Covenant, we have become partakers of the Divine Nature and a Heavenly calling—what a wonderful privilege.

It is noteworthy that the Priesthood ministry of Christ began after He offered Himself in death, when He actually entered Heaven itself to appear before God for us.

                                         In Leviticus, the priests  only offered that which “had been sacrificed.” So it is with Christ in His priestly ministry.     All the sacrifices were made by the head of the household.

Jesus Christ’s death was connected not to the sacrifice, but to the Passover, where the priestly offerings were offered day in and day out, but the offering of Christ was,

“Once and for all.”

Not ever reenacted but remembered! When Jesus said, “This is my body,

This is my blood of the New Covenant,” the Passover was,

“Completely complete,”

Never to be repeated. It was a final redemption for those who put their trust in the finished work of our Lord Jesus Christ

Some denominations teach that it is a continuous sacrifice and they say that the blood must be continuously consumed for the forgiveness of our sins.

This procedure is utterly forbidden with any sacrifice, as the blood was poured out.

Jesus is “not” still offering Himself in Heaven, because when He offered Himself, it was only “One” sacrifice which was ‘Himself’ for our sins “Forever” and sat down at the right hand of God. When He did sit, He fulfilled the Law “Once and for all.”

Yet in Heaven, He still has a ministry, the position as an intercessor for our preservation.

He is in constant prayer for you and me before God who definitely hears and answers His prayers.

Hebrews is written for those who are truly believers and are under his New Covenant which supersedes the Levitical Law and Sacrifice.

This makes the Gospel superior to all forms of the Old Covenant.

The Gospel is  a Divine finality, an absolute finality and we can’t possibly go beyond it…add to it, and you cannot mix anything else with it.

The Gospel is a perfect Salvation, it doesn’t belittle the Jewish Law, it transfigures it, honours it by fulfilling it.

It is called, BETTER!

Which occurs 13 times in this letter.

     JESUS IS BETTER   THAN ANGELS.               

BETTER THAN MOSES.

BETTER THAN JOSHUA.

BETTER THAN AERON.

A BETTER COVENANT WITH 

BETTER PROMISES.

BETTER SANCTUARY.

BETTER SUBSTANCE IN HEAVEN.

A BETTER COUNTRY.

A BETTER RESURRECTION.

All which inherits …

GOD’S BETTER THINGS.

Hallelujah, Jesus is better than anyone, anything. So we must respond in faith of our genuine assurance in Christ to the,

BETTER THINGS,

And faithfully endure all things while patiently waiting for His return. He will fulfil all things in and through us for all eternity.

Bless the Lord, oh my soul!!

Amen

  

Prayer of Salvation.

Lord God, I am a sinner and in need of Salvation. I believe that Jesus paid the price for my sin, by shedding His blood on the cross of Calvary. That He rose again on the third day.

Jesus, please save me and live your life in me now.

Amen

            HE WILL!

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THE RUNAWAY SLAVE!

Paul’s letter  written from a prison in Rome to Philemon is a personal one to   him as a friend.  Philemon as a wealthy slave owner who lived in Colosse.

Onesimus was a runaway slave who had become a Christian.

(His name means prosperous.)

BACKGROUND.

It appeared that Onesimus, the slave of Philemon, had stolen some wealth and fled to Rome for his life. Little did he know that in Rome he would meet Paul and become a Christian.

Paul sent this slave back to Colosse with Tychiceus, a travelling companion of Paul and Timothy, to make things right with Philemon, his master.

Normally a runaway slave would surely be punished or even  killed.

Paul sent this letter as a true testimony of justice, mercy, forgiveness and grace.

Suppose you caught someone stealing your car. After the police have arrived you have these alternatives…

You press charges – that would be “JUSTICE” served because your having the right to have the robber charged as he is guilty of a crime.

You could forgive him for his crime—that would be called extending “MERCY” toward the guilty.

Or you could give him the car! That would be “GRACE” giving him something he did not deserve.

WHAT IS GRACE?

It is God’s unmerited favour toward undeserving people.

Ephesians 2:8,9.

“FOR WE ARE SAVED BY FAITH AND THAT NOT OF OURSELVES, IT IS THE FREE GIFT OF GOD, NOT BY WORKS THAT ANY MAN SHOULD BOAST.”

This is what Paul was asking of Philemon was to extend Grace to Onisemus.

What accompanies Grace?  Peace accompanies Grace.

Doing this, the war would be over and the conflict between the two men would cease.

Who gives this kind of Grace? Only God the Father gives Grace to those who believe.

GRATITUDE.

( See verses 4-6.)

Paul gave thanks to God for Onisemus. He was grateful for his changed life.

He also gave thanks for Philemon’s testimony, expressing his love for Jesus Christ, his faith in Christ, and his affection for the saints, and urged him to show the same love to Onesimus, a new Christian.

Paul encouraged him to continue to be a witness and an example to others. This was Paul’s heart’s desire that he would forgive Onisemus. He could have commanded it, yet he urged him to do it out of love. 

DISCIPLINE SAYS, “I HAVE TO”

DUTY SAYS, “I OUGHT TO.”

DESIRE SAYS, “I WANT TO”.

Paul saw Onisemus as a new born Child of God, a new creature in Christ Jesus, a Christian brother, no longer a Slave. He calls him his own child, a son.

What a beautiful character of Paul. He may have been the one who led him to the Lord in person.

Onisemus was now profitable to Paul as well as Philemon.

In case Philemon wouldn’t accept Paul’s plea, Paul reminded him that he also was once a sinner whom Paul himself brought him to the Lord.

GRACE IS A LOVE THAT WILL PAY THE PRICE.

That’s exactly what Christ did when He paid the price for our sin on the cross of Calvary.

We don’t know for a fact that Philemon forgave and restored Onisemus, I think that Paul’s letter persuaded him.

Look at  these persuading words that Paul used to speak to Onisemus.

“MAY I PROFIT FROM YOU… Bringing joy.”

“MAY I FIND MY HEART REFRESHED.”            

“I BELIEVE IN YOU.”    “I am confident that you will do the right thing and follow my instructions.” Paul continues… “I hope to see you in person- so I can find a place to stay when I come.”                   

Finally, Paul asked Philemon to pray for him.

Yes, Paul assumed that Philemon would forgive Onisemus without hesitation.

I believe he forgave him and saw him as a brother in Christ.

We can learn much from this passage, especially when we have been forgiven by God for our past failures and mistakes.  We pray… “Forgive us our sins as we forgive those that sin against us.”

Sin does not define you. God defines you.

Forgiveness is an act of the will, you may not feel like forgiving but you can ask Christ to forgive through you.

FORGIVENESS HEALS YOUR HURT.

FORGIVENESS SETS YOU FREE…FREE INDEED.

“BE YOU KIND TO ONE ANOTHER, TENDER-HEARTED, FORGIVING ONE ANOTHER, EVEN GOD FOR CHRIST’S SAKE HAS FORGIVEN YOU.”

Amen.

Prayer of Salvation.

“Lord, l know that I am a sinner and deserve punishment for my sin. I am so sorry for my sin. I want to change but only you can forgive me.”

“Thankyou for dying for me so that I can receive full pardon from my sin.”

“I believe that you rose again so l could be free.”

“Come into my life and change me. Forgive my sin, and I will follow you for the rest of my life.”

Amen.

If you prayed this prayer please contact me so I can encourage you in your new found faith.

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WHO WAS TITUS?

Titus was a Gentile Christian and one of Paul’s converts during the Apostle’s ministry. He accompanied Paul and Barnabas to Jerusalem 17 years after Paul’s conversion. Titus was not the closest of Paul’s friends, but Paul loved him and called him “My son.”

When Paul learned that Apollos was about to go to Crete, he took the opportunity to send the letter to Titus. Titus 3:3.

THE LETTER.

The letter is full of practical advice to young Titus now the Pastor of this Church, giving him directions for Church administration and warning them about the heretics of that day.

Paul asked Titus to come to him and report to him about the condition of this Church on the Island of Crete.

Although the letter was a personal one to Titus, it undoubtedly meant to be read to the Church also.

The letter is very similar to Paul’s letter to Timothy, being written about the same time and dealing with the same subjects.

Paul’s greeting adds the word “Servant” to the usual word, “Apostle” making it the main point of the service of preaching the Word.

Paul instructs Titus to preach “Sound Doctrine,” which aims at a life of good works following salvation.  When a Church is perfectly in order and well-instructed then the God works will naturally follow and  Jesus Christ will be glorified.

Many Churches today focus on a form of Godliness in worship. They are more interested in the appearance of music styles, embracing worldly music for the sole purpose of entertainment, which is to draw people into the building. Lighting and building design that forsake the real purpose of why we worship. Some Churches have embraced the practices of the world and become Glorified Clubs.

The true worship of  God is not merely entertainment but, as the Bible teaches,

“WORSHIP THE LORD IN THE BEAUTY OF HOLINESS”

A Church without a solid foundation of sound doctrine is built upon shifting, sinking sands.

So must you and I build our lives upon a firm foundation of sound doctrine.

Nothing is more important than a solid foundation and nothing is more motivating than a gracious person who lives a  godly life full of good deeds.

THE RETURN OF CHRIST.             Christ’s return to this earth is the great hope, called…

“THE BLESSED HOPE.” of His return.

Titus 2:13.

“LOOKING FOR THAT BLESSED HOPE AND THE GLORIOUS APPEARING OF OUR GREAT GOD AND SAVIOUR JESUS CHRIST.”

As most Pastors do, Titus encountered much opposition as Paul implies,

Titus 2:15 b. 

“DON’T LET ANY MAN DESPISE YOU.”

In stronger words, Titus 1:11.

“WHOSE MOUTHS MUST BE  STOPPED.”                     

You must know Whom you believe and what you believe and stand firmly upon it.

Good sound teaching from the word of God and good moral living are grounded in the truth of the Gospel.

Jesus said, 

Luke 11:28.                         “BLESSED ARE THOSE WHO HEAR THE WORD OF GOD AND “DO IT.”

Some key words in this EPISTLE are…

Saviour,                 Sound Doctrine, and Grace, Hope and Good Works.

So, to sum up  this book of Titus, we see the need for…

The Gospel Ministry.

Godly Leadership.

Right, Living.

Responding to opposition.

Promoting of Godly behavior.

Good works.

Godly Fellowship.

Appoint Godly Elders.

Maintain proper order in the Church.

Preach Truth.

Expecting Jesus to appear at any time 

Keeping the Church pure. Be a faithful, godly example.

Rebuke, reprove and refute false teachers.

KEY VERSE. The key verse of this Epistle most probably is …

Titus 3:1

BE SUBJECT TO RULERS, AUTHORITIES.

TO OBEY AND TO BE READY TO DO EVERY  GOOD WORK.

Do you belong to a healthy, Godly Church?  If not, don’t stay there just because of your friends.

Don’t stop going to Church altogether, that is not God’s plan, you can be a great encouragement to the Pastor and a godly influence for others.

Jesus met great opposition when He attended the Synagogue. He still went … every week!

Find a Church run by the teachings of Paul to Titus.

Find a Church where you can be “Most Effective” for our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ.

Find a Church whose sole purpose is winning souls and growing the Saints in good, sound Doctrine.

If you cannot find one… then start one, maybe in your own home. David said, “I was glad when they said unto me. Let us go into the house of the Lord.”

Then you will influence your family and friends that the Church is what it is supposed to be… God Honouring…God Glorifying… And ready for his COMING AT ANY MOMENT!

Amen.

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ALL SCRIPTURE GOD BREATHED.

In both the first and second Timothy, Paul reinforces, clarifies, and amplifies the charge he has given Timothy verbally.

See Tim 1:4.

Note how many times the word “charge” is used by Paul to Timothy.

A CHARGE … Don’t teach any other Doctrine but teach what is True Doctrine.

A CHARGE … To have a good conscience and a pure heart.

A CHARGE … To fight a good warfare.

A CHARGE … To  teach willingly.

A CHARGE … To live a blameless life.

A CHARGE … To those ho are rich in this world’s goods.

These charges are before God, Jesus Christ, and the “Angels.” (A word that is also used to mean “Ministers of churches.”)

What is this charge?

It means to … Guard something that Paul has committed to him in the sight of the Lord Jesus. A “Deposit”,  which is the Gospel of our Lord Jesus. 1Timothy 11,19. This is the Christian Faith. The truth is in Christ Jesus.

Paul had fought the “good fight” and kept “the faith.” He had “finished the course” which God laid down for him.

But what of the future?

He is solemnly giving to Timothy the responsibility to guard the priceless, vital Gospel to preserve it, protect it and continue to proclaim it.

We have also been charged with guarding and depositing this Gospel into the lives of people we can trust so they will teach others.

Another term Paul uses for the Gospel.

That is term called,     “THE FAITH” which is … “Christian Truth.” that must be guarded.

For in the Latter times, some people will depart from the faith. So we must    “Be Bold in the faith.”

Be “Nourished by the faith.”

Look after our family so that they will not… “Deny the Faith.”

Not to follow after money that will cause many to…      “Err from the Faith.”

( Make a mistake or do something wrong.)

He warns that we as well as dear Timothy are not to allow Science to take the place of our faith.

This has already happened in our schools and Universities today. Science has replaced faith.

Sin is not sin but human error. A mistake that doesn’t need repentance.

Saying that the Blood of Jesus is a “Slaughter House religion.”

So we keep our minds pure so that true faith in our Lord Jesus Christ may not be corrupted. We are to be wise unto Salvation and keep the Faith.

DOCTRINE.

We learn a great deal in this epistle about… Teaching, Teachers, and Doctrine.

Teaching and Doctrine in the Greek is the same word for “Deposit.” So we must guard this Deposit with our very own lives by keeping it Pure and Sound.

We are to “Live” the Doctrine and don’t allow it to be blasphemed. Stay close to the Truth of the Gospel and follow it.

That is why Paul is encouraging Timothy to gather around him people who were, “APT TO TEACH.”

They were to be men above reproach, Elders who would rule well at home and those whom they would teach.

They must choose Faithful people because when the Word of God is taught properly, it prospers both in the life of the teacher and the receiver.

We must teach        “The Word,” which is totally Inspired by God and is profitable for teaching and correction. So, as Timothy, we must be … Instant in and out of season, reprove, rebuke, and exhort with all patience and teaching.

The time has come when men teach “another doctrine.” They have become vain talkers and given place to evil spirits that have seduced them away from the Truth to fulfil their worldly lusts.

We are bombarded with a watered-down Gospel.

Look at the worldliness in our churches today.

They accept homosexual Pastors. Immorality, where people are “Partners” but not married.

They believe a fake gospel of  “Works”

Where the Pastor’s authority is over- ruled by the Deacons.

Where legalism takes the place of Love and Grace.

Many Churches have become lucrative businesses, teaching that riches are more important than helping the poor and widows. 

Then, there is a total acceptance of the ungodly practice of Abortion. God forbid!

They teach, “Another Gospel.” And many are deceived thereby.

GODLINESS.

True Godliness happens after salvation. It is the Practical side of our Christian lives. Here are two encouraging verses to help us to godly lives in Christ Jesus.

“BODILY EXERCISE PROFITS FOR A LITTLE TIME, BUT GODLINESS PROFITS FOR ETERNITY.”

I Tim 3:16.

(Paraphrased.)

Think about this next time you work out in the Gym: “Is the Gym more important than my spiritual health?”

“GODLINESS WITH CONTENTMENT IS GREAT GAIN.”

Chapter 5:6.

We must not have a “mere form” of Godliness as it will deny real Godliness, which has the Power to change lives.

Sadly Paul laments that some Christians have “turned aside” and made shipwreck of their own lives.

Some people have “Turned to Satan” and have been led astray, causing them to “Miss the Mark” of their high calling in Christ Jesus.

There is a “breakdown” in our Churches, which causes a  “breakaway” from the pure Word of God.

These last days we live in are grievous times, so precious Christian, please,

“GUARD YOUR HEART  WITH ALL DILIGENCE.

FOR OUT OF IT, FLOWS ALL THE ISSUES OF LIFE.”

Proverbs 4:13

Hold fast to the Doctrine, the Charge, the Faith, the  godliness mentioned in this book of Timothy so you may say, with the great Apostle Paul…. 

“I HAVE FOUGHT THE GOOD FIGHT.”             

“I HAVE RUN THE RACE,”

“I’VE KEPT THE CHARGE.”

“I’VE KEPT THE FAITH.”

“I HAVE FINISHED THE COURSE AND WITH JOY, I WILL MEET MY LORD AND SAVIOUR JESUS CHRIST.”

Come soon Lord Jesus!!

Amen.

I sincerely pray that you will remain faithful until His Glorious Coming again. Then, you will receive the “Crown of Life” laid up for you.

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The first book of Timothy presents the most explicit and complete instructions for leaders of God’s Church in its organisation and life.

This includes Sections on appropriate conduct in Church gatherings.

The qualifications of Elder and Deacons.

The proper order of Church discipline.

HOW PAUL MET TIMOTHY.

Paul visited Lystra, where he met Timothy’s mother and grandmother, who diligently taught him the ways of the Lord.

2nd Timothy 1:5.    Acts 16:1-3.

Paul was impressed with the life of Timothy. He was passionate and totally devoted to Jesus.

How passionate are you about your life in Christ and in the Church?

Many Christians are only interested in the church to take from its programmes that which is comfortable and do not include a real commitment to the cause of Christ, such as in Youth work, Outreach and Hospital visitation, Helping the Poor and other things that maintain a healthy functioning environment in the Church.

What your Church believes and how they behave will be the good news of Jesus Christ to your community.

We all, as ambassadors of Christ, must live a life of integrity and obedience to the Scriptures. Your witness of genuine love, faith, and friendship will draw people into your Church, where they will respond to the Gospel of Salvation.

They will see your genuine faith despite your suffering. Allow them to recognize that Jesus is Lord and King of your life and how you are living the life of Christ in front of those whose lives are broken and lost in sin.

1Timothy 1:6.

It is not always  smooth sailing, people will judge and condemn your efforts. They will be used by Satan to cause you to fear and hinder your work for God. Paul encourages Timothy that,

“GOD HAS NOT GIVEN US US A SPIRIT OF FEAR, BUT OF POWER, LOVE AND A SOUND MIND.”

2 Timothy1:7

So, please don’t give up when the seas get rough, and you almost sink into the ocean of despair.  Look to Jesus, who will help you walk on water and finish the work to which He has called you.

There are more things that He wants to teach you as you walk by faith and not by sight…

You will learn:

FAITHFULNESS AND LOYALTY.

Phil 2:22. Speaking of Timothy… “You already know about his excellent reputation since he has served alongside me as a loyal son in the  work of the ministry.”

DILIGENCE OF STUDYING GOD’S WORD.

2 Timothy 2:15.                           

“Always be eager to present yourself before God as a perfect and mature minister, without shame, as one who correctly explains the Word of Truth.”

BE A GOOD HUMBLE SERVANT OF THE LORD.

1Timothy 4:12.

“Timothy, don’t be intimidated by those more mature than you; be an example they need to see by being faithful and true to all you do. Speak the truth, live a life of purity and authentic love as you remain strong in your faith.”

PERSEVERE WHEN FACED WITH TROUBLE.

2 Timothy 3:14.

“You must continue to advance in strength with the truth wrapped around your heart, being assured by God that He is the One who has truly taught you all these things.’

Dear reader don’t argue with people over doctrines of the Bible. The Word of God is too Holy to be argued about. You may be able to win the argument, but… YOU LOSE THE PERSON!!

MENTORSHIP AND DISCIPLESHIP.

2 Tim 2:2.

“All that you have learned from me, confirmed by my life’s integrity, pass on to faithful leaders competent to teach the congregation the same revelation.“

Follow Paul’s example.

PURSUE RIGHTEOUSNESS, GODLINESS, FAITH, LOVE AND ENDURANCE.

1 Tim 1:11. “I have been commissioned to preach the wonderful news of the glory of the exalted God.”

These are just a few of the lessons that we can learn from Timothy’s example.

Allow the Holy Spirit to  teach you these truths in this book of Timothy.

Read it again, take notes and memorize those verses that apply to you. (even if it takes weeks to learn them.)

They are life-changing and challenging but you must persevere.

If you are diligent about obeying them, you will be most effective in your home, work, Church, and the Kingdom of God.

Bless you.

Amen.

To comment:                    MSM Heather Dalzell 1417545814.

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JESUS’S RETURN.

THE VICTORY OF JESUS CHRIST’S RETURN.

This book of the second Thessalonians was written around AD 51-52. It builds up on the themes of the  first letter, emphasising the return of the Lord Jesus Christ and the need to remain faithful during periods of persecution and uncertainty.

The letter also addresses the issue of idleness and false teaching within the community.

THE KEY THEMES.

The second coming of Christ.

Paul reminds them that His coming is imminent.

(very close)

False teaching was circulating the Church using the name of Paul, declaring that Jesus had already returned and God’s wrath would come upon them. This was false teaching, and many people were being deceived, causing them to react in a negative way. 

They refused to work to earn a living and ceased their involvement in the ministry of the Lord. They sat back and expected other people to fulfil their responsibilities.

Does this not happen today in churches of all denominations?

Today many people are only interested in enjoying fellowship, social activities and the pleasures that the Church offers. They view the Church as a “glorified club” to enjoy themselves.

The Church is a place of responsibility where you can selflessly serve others and use your time and talents to fulfill the true mission of the Church by:

Outreach into the community.                   

Serving one another.  

Maintenance.                

Teaching.

Leading or participating in the music ministry.             

Preaching.

Small group Bible studies.

Sharing in the Lord’s supper.

Prayer meetings!!!

Sadly, Prayer meetings are the least attended meetings in the Church. Most churches have an average of 3% of their congregation attend the weekly prayer meeting.

Oh dear believer, the prayer meetings are the POWER-HOUSE of the Church. The Church is as strong as it’s prayer meeting.

Prayerlessness will hinder the work of God in the Church.

Here is where we believe in the impossible! Where we pray in faith for the lost, the sick, the backsliding soul.

We cover Pastors, Leaders, and Missionaries. It’s where we praise God and Worship Him for answers to prayer. 🙏

Genuinely, don’t neglect this integral part of the Church. You will mature in your faith as you experience mighty answers to prayer.

Do not think in your mind, “Jesus will return very soon, so why must I be involved?” Jesus Himself said, “Occupy till I come.”

Not only had these people neglected their work in the Church, but they had stopped working at all to provide for themselves. Their reason was the soon return of Jesus.

Chapter 3: 1-15.

This idleness opened the way to a disorded life where they were meddling in the lives of others.

See verse 11.

Paul reminds them that a faithful follower of Jesus Christ would imitate Him. He was an example of proper diligence in everything He did. He worked out of the motive of Love.

This attitude is very prevalent in today’s society. People refuse to work and live off the Government. They live in one house and share the rent and spend their money on drugs and alcohol, living it up.They are unruly people!

They are clouds without water drifting along into a waisted life.

Paul himself was a wonderful example of an honest diligent worker. He refused financial support in order not to become a burden to others financially.  He actually urged the people not to associate with those who were living idle, disruptive lives fostering a sense of community and an accountability.

HE COULD FREELY SAY, “DO AS I DO.”

“COPY ME, AS I COPY CHRIST.”

Here in Chapter 2:7-9. He writes:                      

“For you yourselves know how you ought to follow us for we were not disorderly among you; nor do we eat anyone’s bread free of charge, but work hard with toil and labour and toil night and day, that we might not be a burden to anyone of you. Not because, we do not have authority but to make ourselves an example of how you should be.”

HAD JESUS ALREADY COME?

They were being misled to believe that God’s final day of judgement had already come, bringing an end to all things. They concluded He had abandoned them in their suffering and would not deliver them from wicked rulers.

This was not the truth as Jesus Christ will return and will confront the Antichrist and deliver His people from oppression. Paul reminds them that He will strengthen them to stay devoted to Jesus.

This message is for us as well as the believers of his day.

We must remain faithful, confident and fearless as we wait or his return.

Your faithful living will result in glory being ascribed to Jesus.You are the first fruits of Salvation.

SOME THINGS ARE YET TO HAPPEN.

Look at this verse…

Do not let anyone deceive you in anyway. For the day of the Lord will not come until the “final rebellion” takes place and the “Wicked One“appears”

( Antichrist, Beast) WHO IS DESTINED FOR HELL!

Beloved Believer, Your life is in His hands.

The Great “Catching Away”_ (RAPTURE) will proceed God’s day of wrath that will come upon this earth known as..

🌎 (The Great Tribulation)

So the Lawless One, none other than the Antichrist will appear after the Rapture of the Church ( His body) and set Himself up as the World ruler of peace only for a short period of time of three an a half years. Then he reveals who he really is. None other than Lucifer.

Then the final end of all things comes when Jesus returns with His Saints and sets up His Glorious Kingdom on Earth.

There are so many more details to this event, but to suffice, Paul is encouraging you and me to live godly lives, putting aside all fleshly desires and living a God-honouring industrial life for His sake and His Glory.

The best and most important thing you can do at this moment is to be assured of “your Salvation in Christ.”

You must be ready when He comes. Make Him your Lord a Saviour today, right now!

A prayer you need to pray. 🙏

“Lord Jesus, I am a sinner and have been trusting in my own strength to save my soul. I see that this has not worked as I cannot change myself by being religious or being a good person. I now believe that you died for my sin and took my place on that cruel cross of shame. Please forgive me and save my soul. Live in me, change me into the person you desire me to be. Thankyou.”

Amen

If you have prayed this prayer please let me know on… SMS HEATHER DALZELL PHONE NUMBER 047545814.

Financial support.

Email address. heatherdalzell777@Gmail.com.

To read more studies Website Address:

Lightinthedarkness152884863Wordpress.com

Amen.

SEE YOU IN THE AIR!!!

THE KINGSHIP OF JESUS.

“JESUS IS KING.”

First Thessalonians was penned by the  Apostle Paul, who founded this faithful Church in Thessalonica.

It was one of his earliest letters he wrote of all his Epistles.

Please look at the Book of Acts chapter 17 to understand its background.

Paul and his co-worker Silas came to this Greek city to share the Good News of salvation through Jesus Christ. A large number of Jews and Greeks gave their lives to Jesus, forming their own Church in that city.

But trouble was brewing in that area due to Paul’s teaching of the Resurrection of Jesus.

Paul freely taught that Jesus is…

“THE TRUE KING.”

The locals accused the believers of defying Caesar, the Roman Emperor, by saying that there was another King.

“King Jesus.” 

See Acts 17:7.

This led to great hostility and persecution to the point that Paul and Silas had to escape for their lives from Thessalonica. This caused both He and those of the Church much heartache as they dearly loved one another.

So Paul wrote this letter to reconnect with them.

Paul was so thrilled to hear from Timothy that the Church was actually thriving as a Church under such tragic circumstances.

They were doing well and flourishing,  and not floundering under such intense persecution. Paul was so pleased that they remained so faithful.

What would the church of today do in the face of severe persecution?  Would they fizzle or thrive?

Many Christians are facing great persecution at this very moment. They are martyred, they are deprived of employment, houses, land, and reputation and are… Imprisoned, wounded, starving, and awaiting their final sentence of death.

In Australia it has not yet come to this, but it is definitely on it’s way. There are more and more restrictions placed upon us by the ungodly rulers of today.

You may be facing persecution in your home, marriage, or workplace from those you love due to your faith in Christ. 

It hurts you emotionally and mentally, causing you much distress and can damage your health.                        You may not suffer martyrdom, yet you feel unwanted, unloved, and rejected.

Jesus said,

“CHEER UP! I HAVE OVERCOME THE WORLD.”

(You will win in the end.)

---

He said,

“BLESSED ARE YOU!” WHEN PEOPLE SAY ALL MANNER OF THINGS AGAINST YOU ON MY ACCOUNT.”

“GREAT IS YOUR REWARD IN HEAVEN.”

Knowing this, remember that you are not alone. He is with you at all times, never to leave you or forsake you, He will uphold you in the most difficult circumstances.

Jesus has heard your prayers, seen your tears, and knows your heart.❤️It will happen in His time and in His way.

He is the Author and Finisher of your faith.

So dear friend, cheer up, be strong and resolved in your walk with the Lord; your labour is never in vain in the Lord.

1 Corinthians 15: 58.

This first letter to the Church of Thessalonica has two main movements.

1. THE CELEBRATION OF THEIR FAITHFULNESS.

See Chapter 1:1-3.

2. A CHALLENGE NOT TO GIVE UP TO KEEP GROWING AS DEAR FOLLOWERS OF JESUS.

Chapter 1:4-6.

These two sections were surrounded by these prayers…

A PRAYER OF THANKSGIVING.

Paul prays that the Lord would impart His Grace and Peace rest upon those who are faithful and patient in their difficulties. There is a special anointing that comes from the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ by the Holy Spirit to strengthen those who are persecuted.

A PRAYER OF DIRECTION AND AN ABUNDANCE OF LOVE TOWARD ALL MEN.

He prays that God will establish His Holiness into their lives until Jesus returns.

A PRAYER OF ENCOURAGEMENT.    

God will perfect them and present them “blameless” in Body, Soul, and Spirit before His presence in Glory at the coming of the Lord Jesus Christ. (Faultless,) (undefiled.)

Notice here that the Lord is interested in your character while under pressure. He is looking for Christians who will forgive and love those who say all manner of evil against them. He wants and looks for spiritually mature Christians to represent Christ in this evil world.

He is faithful, despite how you may fail or make mistakes and lose it. Look at this tremendous promise from One Thessalonians chapter 5: 23,24.

“AND THE VERY GOD OF PEACE MAKE YOU HOLY. AND I PRAY THAT YOUR WHOLE SPIRIT, (God conscious),

SOUL (Your mind, emotions and will, (self-conscious)

AND BODY. (World conscious)

BE PRESERVED BLAMELESS UNTO THE COMING OF OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST.”

Oh, rejoice with me that this is His work in us.

“FAITHFUL IS “HE” THAT HAS CALLED YOU, WHO WILL ALSO “DO IT.”

You will stand before Him without, spot or wrinkle, (that will be good!) meaning without anything that defiles.

Let’s hang on to that amazing promise and cease from condemning yourself any longer. You have been made worthy through the Finished Work of Christ, to stand before Him with your head held high all because of Calvary.

Amen.

Feel free to comment on  Heather Dalzell SMS 0417545814.

For financial support. Email address heatherdalzell777@Gmail.com

To read more studies:

  Website  Address: lightinthedarkness152884863Wordpress.com

Blessings.     Heather.

THE FULLNESS OF CHRIST.

The book of Colossians is a priceless little document.

The dominant theme is the fullness we enjoy in Christ and how complete we are in Him.                          See chapter 1:9. Christ is the fullness of God to us, so we can walk worthily in Him.

DOCTRINALLY: “THAT YOU MAY BE FILLED.“

Jesus is the fullness of God in creation, in redemption, in the church and verses heresy.

PRACTICALLY:

“THAT WE WILL WALK WORTHILY.”

We walk worthily as as individuals: As we respond to others in our relationships: In our employment obligations. Living the New Life before those who do not yet believe.

In the first chapter we soon learn that JESUS IS THE REAL CHRIST.

The visible form of the Invisible God.

The Prior-Heir of all Creation.

In Him the Universe was created.

He “IS“ before all Creation.

In Him the Universe is held together.

He is the Head of all Creation.

He is the firstborn from among the dead.

Jesus Christ has all sovereignty over the whole universe because all things were “made by Him,” that is, Thrones, Angelic Lords, Celestial Powers, and Rulers. Verse 16.

HE IS GOD.

“ALL THE FULLNESS OF GOD DWELLS IN HIM BODILY”

(He was pleased to dwell.)

THIS WONDERFUL CHRIST IS THE “REAL CHRIST.”

“CHRIST “IN YOU,”THE HOPE OF GLORY”

Look at the amazing Salvation that is ours through this incomparable One. The “SON OF HIS LOVE”

In our… INHERITANCE.

You  are a partaker of the inheritance of, 

“LIGHT”

In our…

DELIVERANCE.

from the Power of “DARKNESS”                 

In our …

TRANSLATION.

You are translated (moved from one place to another) into the Kingdom of the “SON OF HIS LOVE.”

In our. 

REDEMPTION.

You are set free from sin through “HIS PRECIOUS BLOOD.”

In our…

FORGIVENESS.        

You are fully forgiven for every sin ever committed!!

In our…

RECONCILIATION.

You have been restored from a once broken relationship due to sin.

“NOW YOU ARE HIS, AND HE IS YOURS FOREVER.“

In our…

TRANSFIGURATION.

Now, in His sight you are “HOLY AND UNBLAMEABLE“.  (Faultless!)

Oh WOW! 😲

This is your FULL, DIVINE, ETERNAL SALVATION. Never wander away from this wonderful Salvation to vain Philosophers who never come to the knowledge of this TRUTH.

Amen.

I pray that you now have a clearer understanding of your position in Christ. Now Worship Him and recommend Him to everyone you meet?

May the Lord Jesus Christ Bless you with Heavenly Blessings in Christ Jesus.

Comment on SMS

Heather Dalzell 04 17 545 814

To Financially help me in this ministry please contact me via Email

Address heatherdalzell777@Gmail.com.

Amen .

To comment: Heather Dalzell SMS 6104 17 545 814

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