Thank you for reading my Mini Bible studies this past year.
Thank you also to those of you who have supported me financially. God will bless you indeed for your faithful giving to this vital ministry.
I am looking for ways to reach the whole World with the Gospel of Christ by enlarging my audience. I need more finances to do this.
It costs $ 70:00 per week to use WordPress Blaze to spread the gospel over the World into every country.
Would you consider helping me to reach thousands of people who are lost in sin and are in dire need of Salvation.
If you share my burden for the lost, this is sure way to spread the Gospel without travelling yourself to foriegn lands.
Yes, we are sowing the good news by faith and may not physically see the results. The Lord knows, and you will be rewarded.
The cost of keeping this ministry going is at the moment $200.00 Australian dollars per month. To extend my audience would cost an extra $70:00 per week which amounts to $480 dollars per month.
That would mean 8 more people giving consistently $35:00 per month.
Pray about it as time is short before the Lord Jesus returns. My heart breaks for those wbo are not yet saved and are lost in sin.
Any extra money would go to printing these blogs into one book through a publisher.
The sending out of Gospel tracts is now in the process of being printed.
Satan has tried many devious ways to shut me down. In four years, I have purchased three Ipads and six phones, and paid for numerous technicians’ fees to fix problems that are beyond my control.
This ministry is wholly dedicated to the Lord and for tbe extension of His Kingdom on this earth, and to encourage Christians to live a life well pleasing to the Lord.
So dear friends, pray earnestly for me and this calling and ask the Lord to lead you to become an integral part of GOD’S ‘LIGHT IN THE DARKNESS.’
Today, we focus on the courageous men and women in the,
“Faith Hall of Fame.”
Though they lived in different times and places and faced many challenges, they had one thing in common: Loyalty to the Lord their God.
Hebrews 11:35-36 is a perfect example of a powerful passage that encourages us, as believers, to live by faith and trust God’s promises through the eyes of faith.
“CAST NOT AWAY YOUR CONFIDENCE, WHICH HAS A PAYDAY OF REWARDS … YOU NEED TO BE PATIENT, FOR AFTER YOU HAVE DONE THE WILL OF GOD, YOU WILL RECEIVE THE PROMISE.”
“THE JUST WILL LIVE BY FAITH.” Verse 38.
Faith is the fundamental aspect of our Christian lives, and it leads to a deeper connection with God and a better future to gain.
In your time of discouragement, when you feel you cannot continue and are tempted to give up your Christian walk, review these faith-filled believers to encourage you to keep on going despite how you feel and keep your faith through disappointments, betrayals, abandonments, loneliness and pain, because “He is Faithful and He will also do it”
FAITH IN CREATION.
“In the beginning God created the Heavens and the Earth.”
We never saw the creation of the world; we only know of it. We know by faith that the world was created by a Master Designer. This faith goes beyond reason and does not contradict reason. See Psalm 33:6, 9.
” HE SPOKE AND IT WAS DONE; HE COMMANDED AND IT STOOD FAST.”
It’s exciting to read the whole passage from verses 6-9 and discover how God did it.
He created the visible from the invisible. How miraculous!
THE FAITH OF ABEL. Chapter 4:3-5.
He offered a more acceptable sacrifice than his brother Cain because Abel’s sacrifice was offered by faith. God was pleased with his sacrifice and commanded fire from Heaven to consume the accepted sacrifice. Cain, in an angry rage, killed his brother Abel. Abel did not receive any reward on this earth but the reward of God’s acceptance of his offering, the testimony of Abel’s righteousness, and the value of his blood, which reminds us of the value of eternity.
God honoured Abel’s Sacrifice.
THE FAITH OF ENOCH. Verses 5,6.
Such was a man who walked with God and “was not, ” meaning God translated Him from Earth to Heaven. He did not taste earthly death as God took him to Himself. (This is a type of Rapture.) Meaning, (caught up.)
THE FAITH OF NOAH.
Noah was warned about things he couldn’t see. He believed God would flood the earth and obediently built an Arc. You see that genuine faith will not sit back and ask other people’s opinions before taking action.
The Arc of Safety.
Allow me to ask… What has God called you to do with your life? Are you doubting that it was God who summoned you? Are you doubting your own ability? Allow Godly fear to motivate you to obey His call, and do not delay any longer. God can reach millions of people with one totally surrendered person.9
FAITH IN THE LIVES OF THE PATRIARCHS.
ABRAHAM.
First, we will follow Abraham’s journey of faith. He did step out in faith, going to an unknown place that God had promised. But his faith was less than perfect.
In Acts chapter 7:2-4. Reveals that he only went halfway to where God told Him and only eventually obeyed completely.
Yet thousands of years later, God chose not to remember his delayed obedience and mightily blessed him.
You may have faltered in your walk with God and not completely obeyed his call, but you soldiered on by faith and completed his command. God will not condemn you. He will honour your perseverance and faith. I’m sure you have learned some valuable lessons along the way.
Notice that Abraham was a sojourner in the land, not owning any of it. A dweller, not an owner. The word “dwell in ancient Greek is “Paroikos”, meaning “Alien” He was not a permanent resident there.
Abraham, Isaac and Jacob always lived in tents and not houses.
So, you and I are not permanent residents on this earth. Our home is in Glory. With them, we look forward to a better city… Which has the foundations of “WHOSE BUILDER AND MAKER IS GOD!”
SARAH’S FAITH.
Like Abraham’s faith, Sarah’s was not perfect. When the Angel told her she would bear a child in her old age, she laughed in unbelief. “At this old age, would I find pleasure?” The pleasure of sex and conception? Or the pleasure of birth at her time of life at age 90? She laughed and denied it!!
Yet later, she laughed in the promise fulfilled. Isaac’s name means … “Laughter”
Sarah according to Hebrews judged God to be faithful and believing this she received strength to conceive a child. She knew in her heart ❤️ that God is faithful to Abraham and herself.
The result was that they became Parents to a multitude as large as the stars of Heaven… Unnumbered!
Their faith had an impact on more lives than they had ever dreamed.
The child of laughter.
Hey, precious Christian… DARE TO BELIEVE!!
Amen.
To support this ministry you can contact me by Email address. heatherdalzell777@Gmail.com.
Sadly for those people, it’s just how it is; they really don’t like Christmas, so it’s just “another day”
Is that what Christmas means to you? Another day just to be tolerated.
WHY IS CHRISTMAS SO IMPORTANT?
Is it because you can connect with your whole family at one time?
Is it the delicious food, beautifully arrayed on the dinner table, that tempts us to consume far more than we should?
Yummy!
Could it be the sparkling lights on the decorative Christmas tree? Or the mysterious bulging presents underneath its branches that we can’t wait to open?
Can’t wait!
Is it Santa Claus who visits the homes of all the children who have been on good behaviour all year?
Is that what Christmas is all about?
The answer to that question is…
CHRISTMAS IS MORE THAN THOSE TEMPORAL THINGS.
Christmas is meant to be a life-changing experience, a miraculous transformation from spiritual darkness into God’s marvellous light. It is a Spiritual awakening that finds its source in God. Christmas is God’s idea!
It all centres upon what is called,
THE INCARNATION.
So it is at Christmas we reflect upon the fact that Almighty God became a man in the flesh, being born of a virgin, laid in a manger in a stable in the place called Bethlehem.
Jesus was born in Bethlehem.
The true meaning of Christmas celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ. He is prophesied in the Old Testament as “Immanuel,” meaning
“God with us.” It is also interpreted, “God became one of us.”NLB.
In the book of Isaiah, He is prophesied as,
Wonderful,
Counsellor, Mighty God,
The Everlasting Father and the,
Prince of Peace.
Isn’t that enough to make you excited and jump for Joy?
The coming of Jesus demonstrates God’s great love for us, who are lost in sin. He came not just as a beautiful baby but as the Saviour of the World.
The One who came to die that we might live! He offers life to whomsoever may come.
“FOR GOD SO LOVED THE WORLD, THAT HE GAVE HIS ONLY BEGOTTEN SON.” ( Spiritually generated as one with the Father.)
Jesus said, “I am in the Father and the Father in me.”
“THAT WHOEVER BELIEVES IN HIM SHOULD NOT PERISH BUT HAVE EVERLASTING LIFE.”
You see dear reader,
We are all sinners, and there is no one Righteous, not even one.
Trying to do good things for people at Christmas, such as spending all your hard-earned money on expensive gifts or inviting strangers to share a meal, will by no means earn your way to Heaven.
You and I, no matter how nice we are, can lift ourselves up to Heaven by our own bootstraps.
All of us need to come to the Father through Jesus Christ. He is the WAY. THE TRUTH. AND THE LIFE.John 14:6.
I promise you that Chistmas will definitely take on a new meaning once you accept Jesus as your Saviour.You will experience…
A NEW START IN LIFE.
A NEW HOPE FOR THE FUTURE.
A NEW MEANING FOR YOUR LIFE NOW.
THE HEALING OF YOUR BODY.
BROKEN RELATIONSHIPS MENDED.
YOUR PAST SINS FORGIVEN AND FORGOTTEN.
As you grow in obedience to His Word, do His Will, you will draw closer to Him and in turn, He will pour out His blessings upon you, not only at Christmas but all year through.
Prayer of Salvation.
“Lord God, thank you for sending your Son to earth specifically to die for my sin.”
Because He passionately loves you.
“Thankyou that He rose from the dead. I now ask you to forgive my sin, take over my life and save my soul.”
“Thanks for Christmas, Lord.”
Amen.
If you prayed this prayer, please let me know by contacting me on…
Heather Dalzell SMS 0417 545 814. Bless you.
To read more studies Website Address lightinthedarkness152884863Wordpress.com
If you feel led by God to support this ministry financially, please email Heather at heatherdalzell777@gmail.com.
Have a Blessed Christmas.
Always make Jesus your chief focus.
A big Thankyou to all of you who have followed “Light in the Darkness” and have faithfully read my blogs. I truly pray that you have been encouraged by the Word of God and grown in your relationship with Him. In the Wonderful Name of Jesus I bless you with Heavenly blessings in Jesus Christ during this Christmas season.
Heather Dalzell.
Keep looking up for the next event… His second coming!
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.
Faith is downloaded by the Lord God.
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 THINGSWE 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.
Only Jesus can save you.
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 Strong Name of Jesus … Demons will flee.
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.
“I can do all things through Christ, who gives me strength!”
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.
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.
You are set free in Christ.
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.
Levitical Sacrifices.
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.”
Praise you Jesus
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.
Death could not hold Him.
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
He willingly died for you. Ask Him to save you.
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!
For comments,
SMS. Heather Dalzell
0417546814.
To support financially this vital ministry of Light in the Darkness.
Email… heatherdalzell777@Gmail.com. thankyou and God bless you.
To read more studies:Website Address lightinthedarkness152884863Wordpress.com
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.
Onesimus and Paul.
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.
Undeserved Favour!
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.
Reconciliation of Master and Slave.
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.
No-one is useless in the Kingdom of God.
If you prayed this prayer please contact me so I can encourage you in your new found faith.
SMS HEATHER DALZELL PHONE 0417545814.
If God lays it upon your heart to support this ministry financially email me . heatherdalzell777@Gmail.com.
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.
Hold on to God-Centred Sound Doctrine.
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.
Heavy Metal Music.Not really a place of WORSHIP!
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.”
Let’s love His appearing!
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.”
Shut your mouth!!
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!
PRAISE GOD FROM WHOM ALL BLESSINGS FLOW.
Amen.
Thank you for your prayerful support.
Thanks to those who give financially to this ministry.
Those who would like to give can contact me through the Email address heatherdalzell777@gmail.com
If you want to comment on these messages you can do so by messenge or by Email. Heather Dalzell SMS 0417 545 814.
Email… heatherdalzell777@Gmail.com.
Feel free to share with your contact by pressing the Share button.
For reading other blogs from this ministry… Go to the address on Google.Then press MENU.
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.”)
On Guard!
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.
God must have first place in our lives.
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.
Vain riches that take the place of God and have become idols.
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?”
Exercise does profit but it should never take the place of God.
“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.”
NEVER GIVE UP RUNNING!
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.
There is always a reward for the Faithful.
To comment on this message you may SMS Heather Dalzell 0417 545 814.
Engine the exquisite fragrance of these stunning Roses.
heatherdalzell777@Gmail.com.
You can contact me at my email address to support this vital ministry financially.
To read more studies:
Website Address lightinthedarkness152884863Wordpress.com. Press the menu and scroll.
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.
Lois and Unice.
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
Faith overcomes Fear.
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.
“Youmust continue to advance in strength with the truth wrapped around your heart, being assured byGod 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.
FIND YOURSELF A GODLY MENTOR. Someone with whom you can be accountable.
I have a Godly mentor who is the most encouraging person I’ve ever met. He has encouraged me through difficult times, and his wisdom has helped me avoid a terrible mistake. He definitely hears from God and is a Spirit-filled lover of the Word. …Thanks, Brian.
“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.
Jesus will never let you down or fail you.PRESS ON AND PERSEVERE.
Amen.
To comment: MSM Heather Dalzell 1417545814.
To support financially: Gmail address.
heatherdalzell777@Gmail.com.
To read more studies:
Website Address lightinthedarkness152884863Wordpress.com… Press the menu and scroll.
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.
HIS GLORIOUS COMING.
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.
Totally Unmotivated!
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.
God hears and answers Prayers of His people.
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!
Unruly people easily turn on each other.
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 howyou 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.
HE IS YOUR STRENGTH AND HELP IN TIMES OF WORRY.
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. Forthe day of the Lord will not come until the “final rebellion” takes place and the “Wicked One“appears”
( Antichrist, Beast) WHO IS DESTINED FORHELL!
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.
WHAT A DAY OF REJOICING THAT WILL BE!
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
HE! THE ONLY TRUE WAY TO GOD.
If you have prayed this prayer please let me know on… SMS HEATHER DALZELL PHONE NUMBER 047545814.
Light in the Darkness! 