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Thru the Bible on Oneplace.com

“You can't keep God from loving you, but you can put up an umbrella of indifference and sin and rebellion. Then you won't experience it, but He still loves you.” That's what our teacher, Dr. J. Vernon McGee, has to say about the great news that there is nothing that can separate you from the love of God. Hear more in this conclusion to our study of Second Peter.

Wisdom-Trek ©
Day 2616 – Theology Thursday – When Angels Do Time – I Dare You Not To Bore Me With The Bible

Wisdom-Trek ©

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 24, 2025 5:55 Transcription Available


Welcome to Day 2616 of Wisdom-Trek, and thank you for joining me. This is Guthrie Chamberlain, Your Guide to Wisdom – Theology Thursday – “When Angels Do Time” –  I Dare You Not To Bore Me With The Bible. Wisdom-Trek Podcast Script - Day 2616 Welcome to Wisdom-Trek with Gramps! I am Guthrie Chamberlain, and we are on Day 2616 of our Trek. The Purpose of Wisdom-Trek is to create a legacy of wisdom, to seek out discernment and insights, and to boldly grow where few have chosen to grow before. Today is the 53rd lesson in our segment, Theology Thursday. Utilizing excerpts from a book titled: I Dare You Not To Bore Me With The Bible written by Hebrew Bible scholar and professor the late Dr. Michael S Heiser, we will invest a couple of years going through the entire Bible, exploring short Biblical lessons that you may not have received in Bible classes or Church. The Bible is a wonderful book. Its pages reveal the epic story of God's redemption of humankind and the long, bitter conflict against evil. Yet it's also a book that seems strange to us. While God's Word was written for us, it wasn't written to us. Today's lesson is: “When Angels Do Time.” Most Bible study resources describe fallen angels as demons who joined Lucifer in his rebellion against God. But what if I told you that the only place in the New Testament that describes angels sinning does not call them demons, has no connection to Lucifer, and has them in jail? Welcome to the world of 2 Peter and Jude. 2 Peter 2:4: “For ... God did not spare angels when they sinned, but cast them into hell and committed them to chains of gloomy darkness to be kept until the judgment.” Jude 6: “And the angels who did not stay within their own position of authority, but left their proper dwelling, he has kept in eternal chains under gloomy darkness until the judgment of the great day.” Second Peter 2:4 and Jude 6 are nearly identical in their description of angels doing time, but there are differences that help us figure out “what in the spiritual world is going on.” Jude 6 defines what 2 Peter 2:4 means by the angelic sin. These sinning angels “left their proper dwelling.” Second Peter doesn't say they were in cahoots with Satan, or that they did anything in Eden. It tells us they left their designated realm of existence and did something in another realm. But what did they do? Both 2 Peter and Jude compare the sin of these angels with the Sodom and Gomorrah incident, where the sin involved sexual immorality (2 Pet 2:7; Jude 7). Second Peter also connects it to the time of Noah. There is only one sin involving a group of angelic beings in the entire Bible, and it coincides with Noah and is sexual in nature. That incident is Genesis 6:1-4, where the “sons of God” leave heaven, their normal abode, and come to earth and father children (the nephilim giants) by human women. Two features in these passages in 2 Peter and Jude point to Genesis 6:1-4. First, “sons of God” is a specific phrase used elsewhere in the Old Testament of angelic beings (Job 1:6; 2:1; 3 8:7; Psa89:6; Peut 32:8 V Second, both 2 Peter 2:4 and Jude 6 explicitly tell us that these angels are imprisoned in chains of gloomy darkness—in “hell” until judgment day. While it is true that Genesis 6:1-4 never tells us what happened to the sons of God who sinned, Jewish...

Daily Radio Bible Podcast
March 25th, 25: Witnessing God's Fulfilled Promises and Our Call to Love

Daily Radio Bible Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 25, 2025 26:58


Click here for the DRB Daily Sign Up form! TODAY'S SCRIPTURE: Joshua 21-22; Psalm 47; 1 Corinthians 10 Click HERE to give! Get Free App Here! One Year Bible Podcast: Join Hunter and Heather Barnes on 'The Daily Radio Bible' for a daily 20-minute spiritual journey. Engage with scripture readings, heartfelt devotionals, and collective prayers that draw you into the heart of God's love. Embark on this year-long voyage through the Bible, and let each day's passage uplift and inspire you. TODAY'S EPISODE: Welcome to today's episode of the Daily Radio Bible, where we journey together through the scriptures, letting God's word speak to our hearts. I'm your host, Hunter, and on this 84th day of our trek through the Bible, we're diving into the book of Joshua, chapters 21 and 22, Psalm 47, and 1 Corinthians 10. Today, we'll explore how the Israelites obeyed God's commands, dividing the land among the Levites through sacred lots. We'll also witness a tense moment among the tribes as potential conflict is resolved through understanding and faith. Then, we'll look to the New Testament for Paul's reminder of the struggles we face and the victorious life we are offered through Christ. Join me as we walk through these passages and open our hearts to the transformative love of God. Let's get started! TODAY'S DEVOTION: Paul is reminding us that we all struggle in the desert. We all experience temptation. In the Old Testament, the struggle in the desert took these people out. They failed to believe. They failed to enter into what God had done and who they now were. They were God's special possession. God had delivered them out of slavery into freedom. God had given them a land as their own, but they succumbed to the temptation of unbelief, and it resulted in their bodies being littered across the wilderness. They never realized who they were and how they were to exist, but not for us. Paul doesn't want us to get confused and think that these desert wanderings are some kind of example for us or to think that it is somehow analogous to us, to the normal Christian life to struggle and die in the wilderness, to struggle and fail with temptation, to have our bones littered about in the desert. No. The normal Christian life that Paul is pointing us to is the life of Christ living and abiding in you, the victorious life. Overwhelming victory has happened in Christ on the cross. Where Adam failed, Christ has won. First Corinthians fifteen twenty one says, for since death came through a human being, the resurrection of the dead has also come through a human being. For as all die in Adam, so all will be made alive in Christ Jesus. The consequences of Christ's victory have fundamentally altered your being. You are no longer a slave. You are his special possession. You're his child. And this act of deliverance wasn't just for some obscure little tribe in North Africa. No. It was done for all humanity. You are in him. You have been drawn into the very life of God. This is the truth of your being, and it's all a gift. Will you have challenges? Will you have temptations and suffering in this life? Yes, you will. But that does not change what has happened to you. And the spirit's life in you now has made a way for you to endure through all these struggles in the grace and the peace of our Lord. Second Peter one four says, god has enabled you to share his divine nature and escape the world's corruption caused by human desires. The truth of our being is that Christ has made us partakers of his divine nature. The way of our being is now empowered by the nature of god himself, his presence in you. And here's the thing. I can go on and on talking about this. And some of you are thinking that maybe I have. But the truth is this, only god can reveal god. And so my prayer today is that god will reveal himself to you. He'll reveal the truth of your being to you that you will begin to realize what he did on that cross has changed everything. You are his. You are forgiven. You are loved. You are made new. You've been given freedom, and you've been given a new land to live in, a land that is flowing, flowing with life in him. As the revelation of Christ breaks forth in your heart, in your mind, you'll have a new power to live a new way, the way of faith and hope and love. It will be a self-giving life, a radically forgiving life, a co-suffering life. It'll be the cruciform life of Christ living his life in and through you. That's a prayer that I have for my own soul. And that's a prayer that I have for my family, for my wife, and my daughters, and my son. And that's a prayer that I have for you. May it be so. TODAY'S PRAYERS: Lord God Almighty and everlasting father you have brought us in safety to this new day preserve us with your Mighty power that we might not fall into sin or be overcome by adversity. And in all we do, direct us to the fulfilling of your purpose  through Jesus Christ Our Lord amen.   Oh God you have made of one blood all the peoples of the earth and sent your blessed son to preach peace to those who are far and those who are near. Grant that people everywhere may seek after you, and find you. Bring the nations into your fold, pour out your Spirit on all flesh, and hasten the coming of your kingdom through Jesus Christ our Lord, Amen.   And now Lord,  make me an instrument of your peace.  Where there is hatred let me sow love. Where there is injury, pardon.  Where there is doubt, faith. Where there is despair, hope.  Where there is darkness, light.  And where there is sadness,  Joy.  Oh Lord grant that I might not seek to be consoled as to console. To be understood as to understand, to be loved as to love.  For it is in the giving that we receive, in the pardoning that we are pardoned, it is in the dying that we are born unto eternal life.  Amen And now as our Lord has taught us we are bold to pray... Our Father who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name, thy kingdom come thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven, give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our tresspasses as we forgive those who trespass against us, and lead us not unto temptation, but deliver us from evil, for thine is the Kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen. Loving God, we give you thanks for restoring us in your image. And nourishing us with spiritual food, now send us forth as forgiven people, healed and renewed, that we may proclaim your love to the world, and continue in the risen life of Christ.  Amen.  OUR WEBSITE: www.dailyradiobible.com We are reading through the New Living Translation.   Leave us a voicemail HERE: https://www.speakpipe.com/dailyradiobible Subscribe to us at YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Dailyradiobible/featured OTHER PODCASTS: Listen with Apple Podcast DAILY BIBLE FOR KIDS DAILY PSALMS DAILY PROVERBS DAILY LECTIONARY DAILY CHRONOLOGICAL  

Grace Audio Treasures
The All-Sufficient Word of God

Grace Audio Treasures

Play Episode Listen Later Feb 20, 2025 3:46


In a world filled with conflicting voices, shifting opinions, and temporary comforts--where can we find unwavering truth? The answer is found in the Word of God. Scripture is not just a collection of religious writings--it is the very breath of God, wholly sufficient for guiding us in every aspect of life.God's Word is the source of all true wisdom. The wisdom of the world is fleeting and often misguided, but the wisdom of God is eternal. Proverbs chapter 2, verse 6 declares, "For the Lord gives wisdom; from His mouth come knowledge and understanding." When we seek direction in decision-making, relationships, or trials--we must look first to the Scriptures, for in them, God has given us everything we need for life and godliness. Second Peter chapter 1, verse 3God's Word is the source of all true comfort. When our hearts are troubled, where do we turn? Many look for relief in entertainment, relationships, or distractions--yet true and lasting comfort is found only in the promises of God. Psalm chapter 119, verse 50 says, "My comfort in my suffering is this: Your promise preserves my life." The Word assures us of God's unchanging love, His sovereign control over our circumstances, and His faithfulness to sustain us through every trial.God's Word is the source of ultimate truth. In an age where truth is often subjective, the Bible stands as the unchanging, absolute truth of God. Jesus declared, "Sanctify them by the truth; Your Word is truth." John chapter 17, verse 17. The Word of God exposes sin, reveals Christ, and teaches us how to live a holy life. If we neglect it, we risk being led astray by the deception of the world.We must apply God's Word to every aspect

Enjoying the Journey
What the Bible Says About the Holy Spirit

Enjoying the Journey

Play Episode Listen Later Feb 19, 2025 10:05


(Genesis 1:2) The most misunderstood and misrepresented Person of the Godhead is the Holy Spirit. How well do you know the Spirit of God? We are introduced to Him on the first page of the Bible and it is time we all got to know Him better. (0945250219) ----more---- An Introduction to the Holy Spirit Have you met the Holy Spirit? Some people refer to the Holy Spirit like He's an object or a thing or a force, but in fact, He is a real person. Co equal, co existent, co eternal with God the Father and God the Son. And the first time we meet Him is not on the day of Pentecost.  The First Mention of the Holy Spirit The first time we meet Him is in Genesis chapter 1. It's amazing to me, really, how many of these great doctrinal truths begin on the opening pages of Scripture. Someone called Genesis 1:11 a seedbed of doctrine, and they said that every major truth in the Bible can be found in seed form in the opening chapters of Genesis. I think that's beautiful. Genesis 1 verse 1 says, "In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth. And the earth was without form, and void, and darkness was upon the face of the deep, and the Spirit of God moved upon the face of the waters." Now, did you catch that? The Spirit of God, right there He is, in the creation. Remember, God is a Spirit. And the Spirit of God is at work in the creative work. He's hovering, He's brooding over His creation from the very beginning. He's involved in creation.  The Holy Spirit as the Breath of God The psalmist said in Psalm 33:6, "By the word of the Lord were the heavens made, and all the host of them by the breath of his mouth." The Holy Spirit literally is the breath of God. Job said in Job 33:4, "The Spirit of God hath made me, and the breath of the Almighty hath given me life." So the Holy Spirit is the creator. The Holy Spirit is the one who gave you life. When God breathed into Adam the breath of life, and man became a living soul, the Holy Spirit was at work. That same Holy Spirit that breathed into man and the creation is the same Holy Spirit we find in Scripture that gave us the Word. The Bible says that all Scripture is given by inspiration of God. Literally, God breathed it out. It is the work of His Holy Spirit. Second Peter 1:21, "Holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost." Second Samuel 23:2, "The Spirit of the Lord spake by me and His Word was in my tongue. Amen." This book we're studying, this Bible, you have the Holy Spirit to thank for that. Here's what's wonderful, if you're a Christian, the Author lives in your heart. The Holy Spirit, who gave the Word, lives inside of you. Ask Him to help you understand it. He'll help you. Talk to the Author today. I do love the Holy Spirit. Oh, I do love the Holy Spirit. I love the Holy Spirit because everything I know about God, the Holy Spirit taught me. I say that with authority and conviction because it's impossible to understand spiritual truth apart from the work of the Holy Spirit. So everything I know about Jesus, everything I know about God, everything I know about the Bible, I know because of the Holy Spirit. He's our teacher.  The Holy Spirit in the Old Testament We see Him in the Old Testament. In Genesis 6 verse 3, He is the restrainer of wickedness. The Lord said, "My spirit shall not always strive with man. He was holding back wickedness." We see Him enabling believers, even in the Old Testament, for special service. For example, in Genesis 41, the Spirit of God was seen on Joseph. Numbers 27:18 the Lord said to Moses, "Take thee, Joshua, the son of Nun, a man in whom is the Spirit." Daniel 4, verse 8, they recognize that Daniel had the Spirit of God. We know that the prophets were moved by the Holy Spirit. Samuel was moved by the Spirit of God. The Lord poured the horn of oil anointing David in 1 Samuel 16 verse 13, and the Bible says< "The Spirit of the Lord came upon David from that day forward." The Spirit of the Lord came on Samson. Over and over again, the Holy Spirit was working in the Old Testament in the lives of men.  The Holy Spirit in the Life of Christ Then we see Him in the life of Christ. In His conception, Luke 1:35, the Holy Ghost came upon Mary. The power of the highest overshadowed her. Where do you think the Lord Jesus came from? He had no earthly father. So He was conceived of the Holy Ghost. That's a powerful thought. Matthew 1:20 says, "That which is conceived in her is of the Holy Ghost." The Holy Spirit came at the baptism of Christ. You remember that beautiful dove, that picture of purity and peace coming down from heaven, lighting upon the Lord Jesus? And it's beautiful. There's no record that the dove ever left Him. It's symbolic of the fact that the Holy Spirit came upon Christ. But he never left Him. In the Old Testament, the Holy Spirit came and went. He didn't indwell every believer consistently all the time. He came and went. But when Christ came, He came and stayed. And when you come to know the Lord Jesus and Christ comes to live in you, Oh dear brother, dear sister, the Holy Spirit doesn't come and go. He comes and abides with you forever. The Bible says of Christ that He was filled with the Spirit, and He was led of the Spirit. All through His earthly ministry. He was empowered by the Holy Spirit to do miracles, and He ministered in that power. Even in His death. His death at the cross was in the power of the Holy Spirit. Hebrews 9 verse 14 says, "How much more shall the blood of Christ Who through the eternal Spirit, offered himself without spot to God. Purge your conscience from dead works to serve the living God." The Holy Spirit was at work in the life of Christ. He was at work in His resurrection. Two, Romans one, verse four. He is declared to be the son of God with power according to the spirit of holiness, by the resurrection from the dead. But now here's where it gets good and here's where it gets very personal. The same Holy Spirit that worked in the Old Testament and that worked in the life of Christ is at work in your life today. Listen to Romans 8 verse 11. But if the spirit of him that raised up Jesus from the dead dwell in you, he that raised up Christ from the dead shall also quicken your mortal bodies by his spirit that dwelleth in you. I tell you, I just want to stop right now and say praise God. Thank the Lord for this. The same Holy Spirit that moved in creation is moving in my life. The same Holy Spirit that empowered men in the Old Testament wants to empower me today. And the same Holy Spirit that raised Jesus from the dead, that same resurrection power and person lives inside of me at this moment. The Holy Spirit of God is at work in every stage of history, all through the Word of God, in the lives of all of those who will be yielded and open to Him. The Holy Spirit in the New Testament Church In the New Testament we see that He came to indwell every believer on the day of Pentecost. In the Acts chapter 1, verse number 5, Christ said that He would come and guess what? He came. Peter said in Acts chapter number 11 that the Holy Ghost came upon the Gentiles just as much as He did the Jews. That's glorious. That's powerful. Acts chapter 2 is the great record of that event when the Holy Spirit came to indwell every believer on the day of Pentecost. The Holy Spirit works in and through His church. You can study that all through the New Testament. But here's the point.  Personal Application of the Holy Spirit's Work Is the Holy Spirit working in you today? And maybe the better question is, are you allowing the Holy Spirit of God to work in and through your life? See, if you're not careful, you can study doctrinal things and it seems so so mystical and so distant when it's supposed to be personal and a living reality in you. They said of a great preacher of a bygone generation that his doctrine was all application, and his application was all truth and was all doctrine. I really like that. You don't separate what you believe from how you behave. So if you believe the Holy Spirit is God and you believe the Holy Spirit has come to live inside of you because you've trusted Christ as your Savior, and you believe the Holy Spirit is all powerful and all present and all wise, then I wonder, how's that going to affect your life today? Are you going to yield yourself to the control of the Holy Spirit? Ephesians 5 18 says, And be not drunk with wine wherein is excess, but be filled with the Spirit. Will you say to the Holy Spirit right now, I want you to control me today. I yield myself to you today. Holy Spirit of God, have your way with me. I hope and pray today that you'll let what the Bible says about the Holy Spirit affect what you do with your life today. Or may I should say, what He does with your life today. Let the Holy Spirit have His way with you. Repeating what other people have said about the Bible is not enough. We must know the biblical reason behind what we believe. Outro and Resources We hope you will visit us at etj.bible to access our library of Bible teaching resources, including book-by-book studies of Scripture. You'll also find studies to watch, listen to, or read. We are so grateful for those who pray for us, who share the biblical content, and for those who invest to help us advance this ministry worldwide. Again, thank you for listening, and we hope you'll join us next time on Enjoying the Journey.  

All Bible Prophecy Fulfilled
War of the Messiah Part I

All Bible Prophecy Fulfilled

Play Episode Listen Later Feb 11, 2025 31:34


War of the Messiah Part I is a study of the endtimes war taken from Revelation 19:11-16. In depth analysis of the text compared with Old Testament prophecy. Shows the true relationship of the Apocalypse, (Book of Revelation) and the coming of Christ at the end of the age.See Christ's power demonstrated in the defeat of his enemies. Discover the awesome power of the kingdom of God in rightoeuness. Understand the relationship of the first Exodus out of Egypt to the second exodus out of the Old Covenant.Experience the power of the Warrior King, crowned with a name above every name. Unlock the meaning of problem texts interpreters struggle with. See the timeline of prophecy fulfillment that no one can deny. Check out our book, Will Planet Earth Be Destroyed?, A study of the end of the world with special treatment of Second Peter 3. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/all-bible-prophecy-fulfilled--2642968/support.

Selah - A Podcast by Koinonia Fellowship
The Best is Yet to Come

Selah - A Podcast by Koinonia Fellowship

Play Episode Listen Later Feb 2, 2025 49:05


Second Peter is the last letter that we have from him in the Word of God. He is pouring out his heart to the Lord's flock in so many ways. He wants them to know that the grace and peace of God is ours through the knowledge of God and Jesus our Lord. He gives them a spiritual checklist in order to make their calling and election sure. He wants them to be aware of the fact that there are going to be false teachers and false prophets who will seek to infiltrate the church and preach a false Christ, a false gospel, and a false spirit. He reminds them of the judgments of God in the past and that there will be people mocking the biblical teaching of the second coming of Jesus Christ.The warnings that Peter gave to the church back then are needed just as much today, if not much more so with the advent of the internet and the constant stream of false doctrine and heresies galore. Peter knows that he is going to be with Jesus soon, and his desire was that the church that belongs to Jesus would always have these things in remembrance. Thank you, Peter!Today, we will be celebrating The Lord's Supper together. It is a covenant meal in which the cup and the bread signify the redemption that Jesus obtained for us in order that we might know that there is a new day dawning when all of the things of this former world, the sin, the sickness, the wars, the funerals will be destroyed, and God will usher in a new heaven and new earth wherein dwells righteousness. Communion is meant to remind us of both our redemption past and our redemption future.Dearly beloved, may the grace and love of Jesus fill your hearts and minds with the glorious fact that every breath that you and I take today is bringing us one breath closer to being with Him forever. SELAH 

BIBLE PROPHECY RADIO
EPISODE 394 WHAT IS THIS WORLD COMING TO? DID PETER REALLY SAY THE EARTH WILL MELT AS WELL AS THE HEAVENS? WHAT IS THE TRUE FATE OF THE WICKED? IS IT ETERNAL CONSCIOUS TORMENT? IS THAT EVEN REAL?

BIBLE PROPHECY RADIO

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 6, 2025 30:44


In this 'EPISODE 394 WHAT IS THIS WORLD COMING TO? DID PETER REALLY SAY THE EARTH WILL MELT AS WELL AS THE HEAVENS? WHAT IS THE TRUE FATE OF THE WICKED? IS IT ETERNAL CONSCIOUS TORMENT? IS THAT EVEN REAL?, author, speaker and host Elbert Hardy of itellwhy.com and Jesusiswhy.com, gives us his take on sections of Second Peter, Jeremiah, and other scriptures that you may have never read before and that may surprise you.Go to itellwhy.com to read Elbert's books free of charge, no Ads and no requests for money or Email addresses. You can watch faith building YouTube Links to Videos and the listen to Elbert's Life of Christ Audio Book in 30 minute Episodes arranged and read by the author straight from the Bible, but rearranged in logical harmony of the Gospels, Revelation and other scriptures. All FREE of charge in the public interest.

Thinking on Scripture with Dr. Steven R. Cook
The Spiritual Life Lesson 16 - Biblical Meditation

Thinking on Scripture with Dr. Steven R. Cook

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 5, 2025 68:43


Believers Must Meditate on Scripture      The Lord instructed Joshua, saying, “This book of the law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do according to all that is written in it; for then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have success” (Josh 1:8). This command involves a deep, reflective engagement with Scripture, allowing its truths to shape one's thoughts, actions, and decisions. The word “meditate” translates the Hebrew verb hagah (הָגָה), which means “to growl…to moan…to read in an undertone…to mutter while meditating.”[1] According to Warren Wiersbe, “It was the practice of the Jews to read Scripture aloud (Acts 8:26–40) and talk about it to themselves and to one another (Deut 6:6–9). This explains why God warned Joshua that the Book of the Law was not to depart out of his mouth (Josh 1:8).”[2] The practice of speaking the text while reading it implies concentration, allowing the mind to process and absorb its content.      Similarly, David wrote of the righteous man, saying, “His delight is in the law of the LORD, and in His law he meditates day and night” (Psa 1:2; cf. Psa 119:148; Phil 4:8-13). The word “law” translates the Hebrew noun torah (תּוֹרָה), which means “direction, instruction, the law.”[3] Allen Ross states, “To be blessed and remain untarnished in the world, the faithful must live according to God's word. The word ‘law' (תּוֹרָה) can refer to instruction in general, or an individual teaching, or the commandments, or the books of the Law, or Scriptures as a whole.”[4] And the one who adheres to this pattern of meditating on God's Word “will be like a tree firmly planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in its season and its leaf does not wither; and in whatever he does, he prospers” (Psa 1:3). The imagery of a tree firmly planted by streams of water vividly illustrates the stability, nourishment, and fruitfulness that comes from a life rooted in Scripture. Just as a tree by the water remains lush and productive regardless of external conditions, so too does the person who immerses themselves in God's Word remain spiritually vibrant and effective, no matter the challenges they face. Peter Craigie states: "A tree may flourish or fade, depending upon its location and access to water. A tree transplanted from some dry spot to a location beside an irrigation channel, where water never ceases to flow, would inevitably flourish. It would become a green and fruitful tree. The simile not only illustrates colorfully the prosperity of the righteous, but also makes a theological point. The state of blessedness or happiness is not a reward; rather, it is the result of a particular type of life. Just as a tree with a constant water supply naturally flourishes, so too the person who avoids evil and delights in Torah naturally prospers, for such a person is living within the guidelines set down by the Creator. Thus the prosperity of the righteous reflects the wisdom of a life lived according to the plan of the Giver of all life."[5]      James wrote, “The one who looks intently at the perfect law, the law of liberty, and abides by it, not having become a forgetful hearer but an effectual doer, this man will be blessed in what he does” (James 1:25). The word “intently” translates the Greek verb parakuptō (παρακύπτω), which carries the idea of stooping down or bending over to take a closer look at something with careful attention. The aorist tense suggests a focused and intentional effort at one point to deeply examine the law of God. The active voice means the Christian is performing the action, showing that the believer must actively engage in this careful examination of God's Word. Once learned, the believer must be “an effectual doer” of what God commands, and the one who obeys the Lord “will be blessed in what he does.” Fruchtenbaum notes, “The blessing lies in the doing, and he will be blessed further in the future life as the future tense of the verb indicates. The voluntary doing of God's will, as revealed by Scripture, is the secret of true happiness.”[6] Christians who are “doers” of the Word are blessed not merely because they follow God's rules for life, but because living in harmony with God's truth brings divine favor.[7] This includes experiencing the benefits of God's wisdom and protection, a growing relationship with Him, and, ultimately, spiritual fruitfulness (Gal 5:22-23). By obeying God, the believer moves beyond theoretical faith into a transformative, lived experience of grace and divine blessing.      Master the doctrines you learn from God's Word. Let them consciously and constantly circulate in your thoughts. Saturate your mind with Bible doctrine, reviewing and reflecting until it becomes integrated into your thinking. The spiritual life is built by repeatedly studying, processing, and applying God's truth, not by racing through it. A slow, steady rain results in greater ground saturation than a flash flood, where most of the water runs across the surface. Likewise, slow reading with thoughtful meditation penetrates more deeply into the heart. Take in the Word deeply—study it, think about it, live it. God Uses Bible Teachers to Help Us Grow Spiritually      Almost anyone can be used by the Lord to communicate divine revelation. Even a jackass can be the mouthpiece of God (Num 22:28-30). Biblically, Christians are directed to “teach and admonish one another” (Col 3:16), which shows that all believers can teach and counsel one another with the Word of God. Of course, this assumes they've been “constantly nourished on the words of the faith and of the sound doctrine” (1 Tim 4:6), are spiritually mature in their walk with the Lord (Heb 5:14), and can “speak the things which are fitting for sound doctrine” (Tit 2:1). New believers are to “long for the pure milk of the word, so that by it you may grow in respect to salvation” (1 Pet 2:2).      Throughout Scripture, God has used various persons to communicate His Word to others for their instruction and edification. God used mothers and fathers (Deut 6:6-7; Eph 6:4; 2 Tim 1:5; 3:15),[8] wise men (Prov 13:14), noble women (Prov 31:26), older mature women (Tit 2:3), prophets (Deut 4:1; 4:5; Eph 4:11), ruling officials and Levites (2 Ch 17:7-9; Neh 8:7-8), and priests (Lev 10:11; Mal 2:7; Ezra 7:10). In his letter to the Ephesians, Paul listed several communication gifts that Christ gave to His church, saying, “And He gave some as apostles, and some as prophets, and some as evangelists, and some as pastors and teachers” (Eph 4:11). This is a list of gifted men who are tasked by the Lord to provide education to Christians. Jesus gave these men to His church “for the equipping of the saints for the work of service, to the building up of the body of Christ; until we all attain to the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to a mature person, to the measure of the stature which belongs to the fullness of Christ” (Eph 4:12-13). Christ gave these gifted men to His church to help Christians advance spiritually so that they, in turn, can serve others in their walk with the Lord. Dr. Steven R. Cook   [1] Ludwig Koehler et al., The Hebrew and Aramaic Lexicon of the Old Testament (Leiden: E.J. Brill, 1994–2000), 237. [2] Warren W. Wiersbe, Be Strong, “Be” Commentary Series (Wheaton, IL: Victor Books, 1996), 27–28. [3] Willem VanGemeren, ed., New International Dictionary of Old Testament Theology & Exegesis (Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan Publishing House, 1997), 284. [4] Allen P. Ross, A Commentary on the Psalms 1–89: Commentary, vol. 1, Kregel Exegetical Library (Grand Rapids, MI: Kregel Academic, 2011–2013), 188. [5] Peter C. Craigie, Psalms 1–50, vol. 19, Word Biblical Commentary (Dallas: Word, Incorporated, 1983), 60–61. [6] Arnold G. Fruchtenbaum, The Messianic Jewish Epistles: Hebrews, James, First Peter, Second Peter, Jude, 1st ed. (Tustin, CA: Ariel Ministries, 2005), 237. [7] God's Word also strengthens the heart of the believer who regularly meditates on it. The psalmist wrote, “My soul cleaves to the dust; revive me according to Your word” (Psa 119:25), and “My soul weeps because of grief; strengthen me according to Your word” (Psa 119:28), and “This is my comfort in my affliction, that Your word has revived me” (Psa 119:50), and “I am exceedingly afflicted; revive me, O LORD, according to Your word” (Psa 119:107), and “Sustain me according to Your word, that I may live” (Psa 119:116a), and “Plead my cause and redeem me; revive me according to Your word” (Psa 119:154). The idea in these verses is that stressed-out-believers recharge their batteries by means of God's Word, which is “alive and powerful” (Heb 4:12). [8] The Mosaic Law instructed the parents, saying, “These words, which I am commanding you today, shall be on your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your sons and shall talk of them when you sit in your house and when you walk by the way and when you lie down and when you rise up (Deut 6:6-7). The phrase, teach them diligently, translates the Hebrew verb שָׁנָן shanan, which means to engrave or chisel on stone. The verb is in the Piel stem, which makes it intensive (i.e., teach diligently). Here, the tongue of the parents is likened to a chisel they keep applying to their children's minds in order to engrave God's Word into their thinking (cf. Prov 6:20-23). Where and when was this activity of training to take place? Moses says, you “shall talk of them when you sit in your house and when you walk by the way and when you lie down and when you rise up” (Deut 6:7b). Sitting suggests times of rest, and walking speaks of activity. When you lie down suggests evening time, and when you rise up suggests the morning hours. These form a double merism which encompass of all of life. In this way, Deuteronomy is aimed at subsequent generations, that they might learn God's will and faithfully transmit it to their children, who will pass it along to their children, and so on.

Living Way Community Church (Greer, SC)
12/29/24_A Study in Second Peter_Part 5: Confronting Casual Christianity

Living Way Community Church (Greer, SC)

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 30, 2024 65:58


Grace Church of Mentor Sermons
December 29, 2024 - Second Peter

Grace Church of Mentor Sermons

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 29, 2024 51:27


December 29, 2024 - Second Peter by Grace Church of Mentor

Living Way Community Church (Greer, SC)
12/15/24_A Study in Second Peter - Part 4: The Consequences of Speaking a False Gospel

Living Way Community Church (Greer, SC)

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 18, 2024 48:08


Sermon Notes
Insights from Peter: Lessons of Faith, Hope, and Discernment

Sermon Notes

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 17, 2024 36:48


In this powerful episode of "Sermon Notes," hosted by Jay Strother and featuring guest Brian Ball, the discussion dives into the letters of First and Second Peter, exploring themes of spiritual discernment, the urgency of eternal matters, and the importance of maintaining a pure gospel. Jay and Brian emphasize testing teachings against scripture, sharing the joy and duty of spreading the Gospel, and understanding God's timing and patience. The episode also touches on the resilience of the church amidst internal and external challenges and the transformative journey of the apostle Peter. With metaphors like "living stones" and sailing to illustrate faith, listeners are encouraged to remain steadfast in their beliefs, obedient to God's call, and focused on the eternal significance of their spiritual journey.

Living Way Community Church (Greer, SC)
12-08-24_A Study in Second Peter - Part 3: Is There a Wolf Among Us?

Living Way Community Church (Greer, SC)

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 11, 2024 43:05


Queen of the Sciences
Apocalyptic versus Salvation History

Queen of the Sciences

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 3, 2024 71:11


It's the ultimate smackdown! In this episode we discuss the covert work done by theories and doctrines of history, in church and saeculum alike, and why we can't stop theorizing about history once we've noticed it. We also drill down on two particular approaches to time and history within Christian discourse, what they mean, what they imply, and how (and how not) to deploy them. Hoping for a SEVENTH year of Queen of the Sciences? Show your support by becoming a Patron! Notes: 1. Related episodes: Second Peter and the Second Coming, Unbaptized God, Technique and Propaganda with Jacques Ellul, The Bible in One Hand and the Newspaper in the Other?, Buddhism, Our Democracy?, Hegel 2. Augustine, Confessions (specifically, the second half on time that you always skip over) 3. Hinlicky, Luther and the Beloved Community

Daily Orthodox Scriptures

Lamentations 2; Psalm 118:145-160; Proverbs 27:1-5; Second Peter 3

Living Way Community Church (Greer, SC)
12/01/24_A Study in Second Peter - Part 2: Holding On to Every Word

Living Way Community Church (Greer, SC)

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 2, 2024 47:48


Daily Orthodox Scriptures

Lamentations 1; Psalm 118:129-144; Proverbs 26:24-29; Second Peter 2

Daily Orthodox Scriptures

Epistle of Jeremiah; Psalm 118:113-128; Proverbs 26:18-23; Second Peter 1

Living Way Community Church (Greer, SC)
11/24/24_A Study in Second Peter - Part One: A Walking Testimony

Living Way Community Church (Greer, SC)

Play Episode Listen Later Nov 25, 2024 58:19


Thinking on Scripture with Dr. Steven R. Cook
The Spiritual Life Lesson 10 - Feeding on God's Word Part 2

Thinking on Scripture with Dr. Steven R. Cook

Play Episode Listen Later Nov 3, 2024 75:36


     As Christians, our spiritual growth happens as we feed on God's Word and benefit from its nourishment. Jesus said, “Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds out of the mouth of God” (Matt 4:4; cf. Deut 8:3). Job said, “I have treasured the words of His mouth more than my necessary food” (Job 23:12b). Jeremiah said, “Your words were found and I ate them, and Your words became for me a joy and the delight of my heart” (Jer 15:16a). Paul encouraged Timothy to be “constantly nourished on the words of the faith and of the sound teaching” (1 Tim 4:6). Peter said, “like newborn babies, long for the pure milk of the word, so that by it you may grow in respect to salvation” (1 Pet 2:2). Pure milk means it has not been watered down. According to Arnold Fruchtenbaum, “The milk is the basics of the Word of God, and it is necessary for young believers. They need this milk in order to grow spiritually…Essentially, the purpose of partaking of spiritual milk is to grow toward maturity so that believers can begin to partake of the meat of God's Word.”[1] Earl Radmacher states, “The purpose of studying God's truth is not only to learn more, but to become mature in the faith.”[2]      The Word of God helps growing believers in their spiritual development. It has milk for the new believer, as well as meat for the more mature (Heb 5:13-14). And God wants us to “grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ” (2 Pet 3:18). The word “grow” translates the Greek verb auxanō (αὐξάνω), which means “to become greater, grow, increase.”[3] The form of the verb is present tense (implying ongoing action), active voice (the subject produces the action), and imperative mood (it's a command). Gowing “in grace” means taking advantage of God's unmerited love and provisions, and in the “knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ” refers to our deepening understanding and relationship with Jesus Christ. We need God's Word of truth to grow.[4] Areas Where the Believer's Mind Needs Renovation      The Bible offers guidance on various life matters, providing believers with a blueprint for living in accordance with God's will. It does not address everything, but what it does is what God deems important for us to know. The Bible addresses foundational areas of knowledge such as the existence of God, the origin of the universe, mankind, sin, salvation, angels, Satan and demons, marriage, politics, finances, and eschatology. These and other doctrines provide a comprehensive and coherent worldview that allow the Christian to orient to reality from a biblical perspective. Knowledge of who God is takes priority.      Nowhere in Scripture does the Bible try to prove the existence of God. It starts with the assumption that He exists, that He is the sovereign Creator of the universe (Gen 1:1), and that He is known through His creation (Psa 19:1-2; Rom 1:18-20). The Bible reveals there is one God who exists as three distinct Persons within the Trinity (Gen 1:26; 11:6-7; Matt 3:16-17; 28:19; 2 Cor 13:14; 1 Pet 1:2): God the Father (Gal 1:1; Eph 6:23; Phil 2:11), God the Son (John 1:1, 14, 18; 8:58; 20:28; Col 2:9; Heb 1:8), and God the Holy Spirit (Acts 5:3-4; 1 Cor 2:11-12; 2 Cor 13:14). God is three in Person, but one in essence, sharing the same attributes. The use of the Hebrew numeral echad (אֶחָד) reveals, in some contexts, the idea of a complex one, which supports the doctrine of the Trinity (Deut 6:4; cf., Gen 2:24; Ezra 3:1; Ezek 37:17). All three persons of the Trinity are co-equal, co-infinite, co-eternal, and worthy of all praise and service.      The three Persons of the God-head share the same divine attributes. The attributes of God consist of intrinsic characteristics that are equally representative of the God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit. God's attributes are revealed in Scripture, which means they are objective and can be learned by God's people. Furthermore, the attributes of God explain His actions. And we cannot separate or elevate one attribute above another. The Bible reveals God is: Living, which means “He is the living God and the everlasting King” (Jer 10:10), He “has life in Himself” (John 5:26; cf. Psa 42:2; 84:2; Matt 16:16; John 1:4) and is the ultimate source of life. Paul states, “for in Him we live and move and exist” (Acts 17:28). Self-existent (aseity), which means His existence depends on nothing outside of Himself (Ex 3:14). Moses said, “from everlasting to everlasting, You are God” (Psa 90:2). There is no prior cause that brought God into existence, He will never cease to be, and He depends on nothing outside of Himself. Holy (Lev 11:44; Psa 99:9; Isa 45:5-19), which means God is morally perfect and separate from all that is sinful. Spirit (John 4:24; 2 Cor 3:17), which means the nature of God's being is spirit, not material. Sovereign (Psa 115:3; Isa 46:9-11; Dan 4:35; Acts 17:24-28), which means God acts freely as He pleases, always as He pleases, and only as He pleases. Immutable (Psa 102:26-27; Mal 3:6), which means God's essential nature does not change. Eternal (Deut 33:27; 1 Tim 1:17), which means God has always existed, does exist, and forever will exist. Infinite (1 Ki 8:27; Jer 23:24), which means God exists in space and beyond space. Omniscient (Psa 139:1-4; Matt 6:31-33), which means God knows all things and is infinite in knowledge. Omnipresent (Psa 139:7-10; Jer 23:24), which means He is equally and fully everywhere present. Omnipotent (Job 42:2; Isa 40:28), which means God is all-powerful and able to accomplish all He desires. Righteous (Psa 11:7; 119:137), which refers to His intrinsic moral perfection, from which He commands all things in heaven and earth, and declares as good that which conforms to His righteousness and as evil that which deviates. Just (Psa 9:7-8; 19:9), which refers to the outworking of His righteousness in which He justifies or condemns, blesses or curses, that which does or does not conform to His righteous character. True (Jer 10:10; John 17:3), which means He is genuine, in contrast to false idols. This means He truthful (2 Sam 7:28; John 17:17). His knowledge and declarations define reality and help us make sense of what is. Love (Jer 31:3; 1 John 4:7-8), which means He is committed to us, desires our best, and acts for our benefit. Good (Psa 100:5; 145:9; Nah 1:7; Jam 1:17), which means all He does is good, and that He is the ultimate source of all that is good. Faithful (Deut 7:9; Lam 3:21-23), which means He is reliable in all He says and does, always keeping His Word. Merciful (Psa 86:15; Tit 3:5), which means He is kind toward us and does not judge us as we deserve. Gracious (Psa 111:4; 116:5), which means He treats us better than we deserve. Dr. Steven R. Cook     [1] Arnold G. Fruchtenbaum, The Messianic Jewish Epistles: Hebrews, James, First Peter, Second Peter, Jude, 1st ed. (Tustin, CA: Ariel Ministries, 2005), 339. [2] Earl D. Radmacher, Ronald Barclay Allen, and H. Wayne House, Nelson's New Illustrated Bible Commentary (Nashville: T. Nelson Publishers, 1999), 1680. [3] William Arndt, Frederick W. Danker, et al., A Greek-English Lexicon of the New Testament and Other Early Christian Literature (Chicago: University of Chicago Press, 2000), 151. [4] The writers of Scripture regarded God's Word as truth, saying, “Now, O Lord GOD, You are God, and Your words are truth” (2 Sam 7:28), “You are near, O LORD, and all Your commandments are truth” (Psa 119:151), “the sum of Your word is truth, and every one of Your righteous ordinances is everlasting” (Psa 119:160), and Jesus said of the Father, “Your word is truth” (John 17:17b). The term “truth” refers to the absolute, unchanging, and reliable content of God's Word. The concept of truth in Scripture is not merely about factual accuracy but also encompasses faithfulness, trustworthiness, and the eternal consistency of God's revelation and promises. God's Word is divinely authoritative. It is truth that provides a firm foundation for faith, guiding believers in their relationship with God and in their daily lives. The Bible is the source of God's absolute truth in all it affirms, and communicates information we could never know independently of it. Our ability to reason, aided by God the Holy Spirit, allows us to understand what is recorded. And, once understood, we are called to a faith response.

Queen of the Sciences
Unbaptized God

Queen of the Sciences

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 10, 2024 82:36


The more ecumenical dialogues establish agreement, the more they turn up disagreement. Why, 115 years into multilateral Christian dialogue and 60 years into bilateral dialogue, does Christian unity look farther away than ever? Why can't we all just agree? In this episode, Dad and I delve deeply into Lutheran theologian Robert W. Jenson's book Unbaptized God, which posits that the problem isn't disagreement at all—it's disastrous agreement on a faulty premise at the root of the theological enterprise. We agree and disagree with Jenson, both of which reactions prove to be tremendously fruitful. Notes: 1. Jenson, Unbaptized God 2. Apocalyptic and the Future of Theology 3. Related episodes: Apologetics, Second Peter and the Second Coming, John of Damascus, Chalcedon vs Luther, Bonhoeffer's Christology, A Hegel with all the Fixin's Holy moly! Six years of top-quality theological podcasting! Why not show your support by becoming a Patron?

Thinking on Scripture with Dr. Steven R. Cook
The Spiritual Life Lesson 9 - Feeding on God's Word Part 1

Thinking on Scripture with Dr. Steven R. Cook

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 8, 2024 69:46


     At the moment of faith in Christ, believers know very little about God, His will, or the many blessings He has provided. Spiritually, they are ignorant babies. This is not a negative, but the reality of the situation. Prior to salvation, the soul is filled with human viewpoint, which is often contrary to God and His Word. This is why Christians are directed to renew their minds (Rom 12:1-2). Living spiritually involves expunging human viewpoint and replacing it with divine viewpoint. A soul devoid of God's Word lacks the capacity to love and serve the Lord, to love and serve others (according to His standards), and has no defense against Satan's world system or the sin nature within the Christian. The infusion of God's Word makes possible the advance to spiritual maturity and the fulfillment of His will, and this is accomplished by faith.      God wants us to mature spiritually, but He is not in a hurry, and He wants us to mature on the food He provides, not junk food that poisons our souls. God works on us in time, but He's preparing us for eternity. We get only one run at life. There are no rehearsals, which means it's best for us to learn early, learn much, and make good choices that are rooted in divine wisdom. The consistent intake and application of Bible teaching is crucial for spiritual maturity. The Holy Spirit enables the yielded believer to understand and apply Scripture, leading to spiritual growth. Without the knowledge of God's Word, believer's remain spiritually immature, vulnerable to false doctrines, and unable to execute the spiritual life effectively. Robert B. Thieme, Jr. states, “The advance to spiritual victory is a gradual process, with ups and downs inherent to flawed human nature. But God in His wisdom and grace gives each believer the exact training, a combination of blessing and suffering, necessary to bring him to maximum glorification of God.”[1]      Since we cannot live what we do not know, learning God's Word necessarily precedes living His will. God Himself is the source of wisdom (Prov 2:6; Eccl 2:26a), and His wisdom protects us from the dangerous paths of darkness (Prov 2:7-15). His wisdom is more precious than the wealth of this world (Prov 3:13-18; 8:11, 19; 16:16), is available to those who seek it (Prov 8:17; Jam 1:5), and brings blessings to those who find it (Prov 8:33-36). Respect for God is the beginning of wisdom (Prov 1:7; 9:10; 15:33; Psa 111:10). Those who possess wisdom will be able to share it with others (Prov 10:11, 31; 13:14; 15:2, 7; Eccl 10:12), will build good friendships (Prov 2:20; 13:20), and will stay on the path of righteousness, turning away from evil (Prov 14:16; 22:3; 27:12).      While God does not force us to grow spiritually, He is not neutral about our spiritual development. God loves us greatly, and He wants us to mature spiritually (Heb 6:1). Just as earthly parents seek the best for their children, nurturing them toward maturity, God, our Heavenly Father, also desires our spiritual growth. This maturation process is essential for us to fully experience and manage the blessings He intends for us. This is similar to good parents who wait until their child is mature before blessing them with certain things. For instance, a car can be a blessing, providing freedom and mobility, but if given to an immature or irresponsible child, it could lead to disaster. Similarly, spiritual blessings like authority, influence, or material wealth require maturity to use them wisely and for God's glory.      Through the consistent study and application of Scripture, Christians are transformed from the inside out, for “All Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness” (2 Tim 3:16). This transformative process leads to spiritual maturity, as we learn to discern good from evil (Heb 5:14) and become more conformed to the image of Christ. Additionally, the Word of God equips us “for every good work” (2 Tim 3:17), good works “which God prepared beforehand so that we would walk in them” (Eph 2:10). As we immerse ourselves in Scripture and apply it to life, we are prepared to serve others, share the gospel, and live out our faith in practical ways. The Bible provides the principles and instructions needed to navigate life's challenges, make wise decisions, and bear fruit in our Christian walk.      As Christians, our spiritual growth happens as we feed on God's Word and benefit from its nourishment. Jesus said, “Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds out of the mouth of God” (Matt 4:4; cf. Deut 8:3). Job said, “I have treasured the words of His mouth more than my necessary food” (Job 23:12b). Jeremiah said, “Your words were found and I ate them, and Your words became for me a joy and the delight of my heart” (Jer 15:16a). Paul encouraged Timothy to be “constantly nourished on the words of the faith and of the sound teaching” (1 Tim 4:6). Peter said, “like newborn babies, long for the pure milk of the word, so that by it you may grow in respect to salvation” (1 Pet 2:2). Pure milk means it has not been watered down. According to Arnold Fruchtenbaum, “The milk is the basics of the Word of God, and it is necessary for young believers. They need this milk in order to grow spiritually…Essentially, the purpose of partaking of spiritual milk is to grow toward maturity so that believers can begin to partake of the meat of God's Word.”[2] Earl Radmacher states, “The purpose of studying God's truth is not only to learn more, but to become mature in the faith.”[3] Dr. Steven R. Cook     [1] Robert B. Thieme, Jr. “Spiritual Adulthood”, Thieme's Bible Doctrine Dictionary, (Houston, TX., R. B. Thieme, Jr., Bible Ministries, 2022), 245. [2] Arnold G. Fruchtenbaum, The Messianic Jewish Epistles: Hebrews, James, First Peter, Second Peter, Jude, 1st ed. (Tustin, CA: Ariel Ministries, 2005), 339. [3] Earl D. Radmacher, Ronald Barclay Allen, and H. Wayne House, Nelson's New Illustrated Bible Commentary (Nashville: T. Nelson Publishers, 1999), 1680.

Bob Enyart Live
ThThurs: 1 Peter Pt. 10

Bob Enyart Live

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 30, 2024


* 1 Peter: Meet the Apostle Peter in this important Bible study. Have you considered why Peter addresses his letters to no well-known recipients? Rather, similarly to James, John, and Jude, he sends them generically to the circumcision believers scattered abroad. Why? Meanwhile, Peter mentions the Apostle Paul, who addresses his epistles to many well-known leaders and specific regional churches. Teacher Bob Enyart demonstrates that understanding the big picture of the Bible, its plot, helps to see even such small books as First Peter and Second Peter in their proper perspectives. Such biblical observations go a long way toward explaining the differences between Peter and Paul. For as Peter himself wrote of "our beloved brother Paul" who "has written to you as also in all his epistles, in which are some things hard to understand." Available on Video or Audio. BEL SUBSCRIPTIONS: Please consider one of our monthly subscriptions that will not only help support BEL, but they also promote better understanding of the Bible and may equip you to more effectively reach those around you. Monthly Audio & Video Downloads: Now you can subscribe to monthly sermons, Bible studies or topical videos in download form.  Monthly Sermons: Enjoy all of Bob's sermons from the month on Sermon Video DVDs, great also to watch with the family. Or, get these on Sermon Audio CDs which are standard audio Compact Discs that will play on any CD player including the one in your car. Or get them on a single Sermon MP3-CD which will play on an MP3 player, in a DVD player, or in your computer. Monthly Bible Studies: Enjoy the Scriptures with Bob's Monthly Bible Study DVDs, great too for a small group Bible study. Or get these teachings on a single Monthly Bible Study Audio MP3- CD which will play on an MP3 player, in a DVD player, or in your computer. Monthly Topical Videos: Coming to your mailbox, you'll get a Monthly Topical DVD to enjoy one of Bob's great videos specially selected to be entertaining and to teach about life from a biblical worldview. Monthly BEL TV Classics: Enjoy Bob Enyart's timeless, popular TV show delivered to your home on the Monthly BEL TV Classics DVDs with great audio and video clarity thanks to our state-of-the-art mastering from the studio-quality Sony beta tapes to DVD! Monthly Donation: For folks who just want to make sure that Bob Enyart Live stays on the air, please consider making a pledge in the form of a Monthly Donation.

tv bible video evolution sony cd abortion dvd scriptures conservatives apostle paul 1 peter wing downloads apostle peter second peter compact discs monthly donation bob enyart live bel subscriptions monthly sermons monthly bible studies monthly bel tv classics enjoy bob enyart
Theology Thursday
ThThurs: 1 Peter Pt. 10

Theology Thursday

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 30, 2024


* 1 Peter: Meet the Apostle Peter in this important Bible study. Have you considered why Peter addresses his letters to no well-known recipients? Rather, similarly to James, John, and Jude, he sends them generically to the circumcision believers scattered abroad. Why? Meanwhile, Peter mentions the Apostle Paul, who addresses his epistles to many well-known leaders and specific regional churches. Teacher Bob Enyart demonstrates that understanding the big picture of the Bible, its plot, helps to see even such small books as First Peter and Second Peter in their proper perspectives. Such biblical observations go a long way toward explaining the differences between Peter and Paul. For as Peter himself wrote of "our beloved brother Paul" who "has written to you as also in all his epistles, in which are some things hard to understand." Available on Video or Audio. BEL SUBSCRIPTIONS: Please consider one of our monthly subscriptions that will not only help support BEL, but they also promote better understanding of the Bible and may equip you to more effectively reach those around you. Monthly Audio & Video Downloads: Now you can subscribe to monthly sermons, Bible studies or topical videos in download form.  Monthly Sermons: Enjoy all of Bob's sermons from the month on Sermon Video DVDs, great also to watch with the family. Or, get these on Sermon Audio CDs which are standard audio Compact Discs that will play on any CD player including the one in your car. Or get them on a single Sermon MP3-CD which will play on an MP3 player, in a DVD player, or in your computer. Monthly Bible Studies: Enjoy the Scriptures with Bob's Monthly Bible Study DVDs, great too for a small group Bible study. Or get these teachings on a single Monthly Bible Study Audio MP3- CD which will play on an MP3 player, in a DVD player, or in your computer. Monthly Topical Videos: Coming to your mailbox, you'll get a Monthly Topical DVD to enjoy one of Bob's great videos specially selected to be entertaining and to teach about life from a biblical worldview. Monthly BEL TV Classics: Enjoy Bob Enyart's timeless, popular TV show delivered to your home on the Monthly BEL TV Classics DVDs with great audio and video clarity thanks to our state-of-the-art mastering from the studio-quality Sony beta tapes to DVD! Monthly Donation: For folks who just want to make sure that Bob Enyart Live stays on the air, please consider making a pledge in the form of a Monthly Donation.

tv jesus christ bible video study sermon sony cd theology dvd scriptures apostle paul 1 peter downloads apostle peter second peter compact discs monthly donation bob enyart live bel subscriptions monthly sermons monthly bible studies monthly bel tv classics enjoy bob enyart
Bob Enyart Live
ThThurs: 1 Peter Pt. 9

Bob Enyart Live

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 23, 2024


* 1 Peter: Meet the Apostle Peter in this important Bible study. Have you considered why Peter addresses his letters to no well-known recipients? Rather, similarly to James, John, and Jude, he sends them generically to the circumcision believers scattered abroad. Why? Meanwhile, Peter mentions the Apostle Paul, who addresses his epistles to many well-known leaders and specific regional churches. Teacher Bob Enyart demonstrates that understanding the big picture of the Bible, its plot, helps to see even such small books as First Peter and Second Peter in their proper perspectives. Such biblical observations go a long way toward explaining the differences between Peter and Paul. For as Peter himself wrote of "our beloved brother Paul" who "has written to you as also in all his epistles, in which are some things hard to understand." Available on Video or Audio. BEL SUBSCRIPTIONS: Please consider one of our monthly subscriptions that will not only help support BEL, but they also promote better understanding of the Bible and may equip you to more effectively reach those around you. Monthly Audio & Video Downloads: Now you can subscribe to monthly sermons, Bible studies or topical videos in download form.  Monthly Sermons: Enjoy all of Bob's sermons from the month on Sermon Video DVDs, great also to watch with the family. Or, get these on Sermon Audio CDs which are standard audio Compact Discs that will play on any CD player including the one in your car. Or get them on a single Sermon MP3-CD which will play on an MP3 player, in a DVD player, or in your computer. Monthly Bible Studies: Enjoy the Scriptures with Bob's Monthly Bible Study DVDs, great too for a small group Bible study. Or get these teachings on a single Monthly Bible Study Audio MP3- CD which will play on an MP3 player, in a DVD player, or in your computer. Monthly Topical Videos: Coming to your mailbox, you'll get a Monthly Topical DVD to enjoy one of Bob's great videos specially selected to be entertaining and to teach about life from a biblical worldview. Monthly BEL TV Classics: Enjoy Bob Enyart's timeless, popular TV show delivered to your home on the Monthly BEL TV Classics DVDs with great audio and video clarity thanks to our state-of-the-art mastering from the studio-quality Sony beta tapes to DVD! Monthly Donation: For folks who just want to make sure that Bob Enyart Live stays on the air, please consider making a pledge in the form of a Monthly Donation.

tv bible video evolution sony cd abortion dvd scriptures conservatives apostle paul 1 peter wing downloads apostle peter second peter compact discs monthly donation bob enyart live bel subscriptions monthly sermons monthly bible studies monthly bel tv classics enjoy bob enyart
Theology Thursday
ThThurs: 1 Peter Pt. 9

Theology Thursday

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 23, 2024


* 1 Peter: Meet the Apostle Peter in this important Bible study. Have you considered why Peter addresses his letters to no well-known recipients? Rather, similarly to James, John, and Jude, he sends them generically to the circumcision believers scattered abroad. Why? Meanwhile, Peter mentions the Apostle Paul, who addresses his epistles to many well-known leaders and specific regional churches. Teacher Bob Enyart demonstrates that understanding the big picture of the Bible, its plot, helps to see even such small books as First Peter and Second Peter in their proper perspectives. Such biblical observations go a long way toward explaining the differences between Peter and Paul. For as Peter himself wrote of "our beloved brother Paul" who "has written to you as also in all his epistles, in which are some things hard to understand." Available on Video or Audio. BEL SUBSCRIPTIONS: Please consider one of our monthly subscriptions that will not only help support BEL, but they also promote better understanding of the Bible and may equip you to more effectively reach those around you. Monthly Audio & Video Downloads: Now you can subscribe to monthly sermons, Bible studies or topical videos in download form.  Monthly Sermons: Enjoy all of Bob's sermons from the month on Sermon Video DVDs, great also to watch with the family. Or, get these on Sermon Audio CDs which are standard audio Compact Discs that will play on any CD player including the one in your car. Or get them on a single Sermon MP3-CD which will play on an MP3 player, in a DVD player, or in your computer. Monthly Bible Studies: Enjoy the Scriptures with Bob's Monthly Bible Study DVDs, great too for a small group Bible study. Or get these teachings on a single Monthly Bible Study Audio MP3- CD which will play on an MP3 player, in a DVD player, or in your computer. Monthly Topical Videos: Coming to your mailbox, you'll get a Monthly Topical DVD to enjoy one of Bob's great videos specially selected to be entertaining and to teach about life from a biblical worldview. Monthly BEL TV Classics: Enjoy Bob Enyart's timeless, popular TV show delivered to your home on the Monthly BEL TV Classics DVDs with great audio and video clarity thanks to our state-of-the-art mastering from the studio-quality Sony beta tapes to DVD! Monthly Donation: For folks who just want to make sure that Bob Enyart Live stays on the air, please consider making a pledge in the form of a Monthly Donation.

tv jesus christ bible video study sermon sony cd theology dvd scriptures apostle paul 1 peter downloads apostle peter second peter compact discs monthly donation bob enyart live bel subscriptions monthly sermons monthly bible studies monthly bel tv classics enjoy bob enyart
Queen of the Sciences
Second Peter and the Second Coming

Queen of the Sciences

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 13, 2024 73:51


Whose all-time favorite NT epistle is Second Peter? Yeah, I thought so, i.e., nobody's. Terse yet wordy, full of highly developed doctrine yet also threats of judgment, and most likely pseudepigraphal, it's a tough nut to crack. In this episode, Dad and I haul out our exegetical nutcrackers and extract the sweetmeat (to push an already overstrained metaphor too far—though you gotta admit, it fits with Second Peter's prose style), which, oddly enough, proves to be the Parousia of Christ and God's astounding patience, desiring that all, yes all, come to repentance. Plus, more on the Transfiguration! Notes: 1. Sarah's book on the Transfiguration is now in print and available for general purchase! Get Seven Ways of Looking at the Transfiguration as an ebook and audiobook direct from Thornbush Press, print (or any other format) from Amazon. 2. Bauckham, Jude–2 Peter 2. Schnelle, The History and Theology of the New Testament Writings 3. Harink, 1 & 2 Peter 4. Saarinen, The Pastoral Epistles with Philemon & Jude 5. Related episodes: Jude, The Transfiguration, I Peter, Faith Just Faith Holy moly! Six years of top-quality theological podcasting! Why not show your support by becoming a Patron?

Light on the Hill on Oneplace.com
In the Volume of the Book Part 18b

Light on the Hill on Oneplace.com

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 10, 2024 26:00


We're at the tail-end of a 20 part series called, In the Volume of the Book. James is drawing our attention to the prophecy contained in each book of the Bible, and today it's First and Second Peter. We'll observe some promises that be unsettling to some, but very encouraging to others. Like the end is near! To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1459/29

Light on the Hill on Oneplace.com
That Day is Coming as a Thief in the Night Part 2

Light on the Hill on Oneplace.com

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 6, 2024 26:01


When we come to realize the world and universe around us will be destroyed one day, and replaced with a new heaven and new earth, it really should impact our lives in more ways than one. Today on Light on the Hill we join pastor James Kaddis in Second Peter chapter three and see how Bible prophecy can have a tremendous affect on us as we receive and believe it. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1459/29

Covenant Life Church
Knowing God and Growing in Grace

Covenant Life Church

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 4, 2024 38:30


We begin a study of Second Peter: a book emphasizing the importance of growing in our knowledge of God and in His grace, while reasserting the certainty of Christ's return and the need for vigilance against false teaching. // A message by Chris Hyatt.

Thinking on Scripture with Dr. Steven R. Cook
The Spiritual Life Lesson 4 - The Disciplined Life

Thinking on Scripture with Dr. Steven R. Cook

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 4, 2024 60:49


     I define spirituality as: The life the Christian experiences when properly living in dependence upon the Holy Spirit and walking according to Scripture. Spirituality assumes regeneration, as one cannot be spiritual without being born again to new life through God the Holy Spirit (John 3:3; 1 Pet 1:3, 23). This new spiritual birth—or regeneration—occurs at the moment of faith in Christ, when one believes in Jesus as Savior (John 3:15-16; 6:40; 20:31; Acts 4:12; 16:31). Once they are born again, their spiritual life will advance in proportion to their intake of Scripture and their willingness to apply it as the Holy Spirit directs. Since we cannot live what we do not know, it's necessary to learn God's Word in order to live His will. A Christian who consistently studies and applies God's Word will reach spiritual maturity more quickly than one who studies little. Christians who are ignorant of God's Word, or unwilling to obey it, will default to human viewpoint thinking, emotion, or experience as the rule for life. Consequently, immature Christians may define spirituality by non-biblical terms or by their feelings at any given moment. This humanistic and emotional metric will inevitably lead to uncertainty, instability, and inconsistency in their walk with the Lord due to incorrect thoughts and vacillating emotions. God wants our thinking to be properly calibrated according to His Word (Psa 1:2-3; 2 Tim 2:15; 3:16-17; 1 Pet 2:2), and to live by faith (2 Cor 5:7; Heb 10:38; 11:6), which eventually yields fruit (Gal 5:22-23) and a stable Christian life (Psa 119:165; Isa 26:3; Phil 4:6-7; Col 3:16; 2 Tim 1:7). But time is a key ingredient for the Christian to reach spiritual maturity. Charles Ryrie states: "Christian maturity is the growth which the Holy Spirit produces over a period of time in the believer. To be sure, the same amount of time is not required for each individual, but some time is necessary for all. It is not the time itself which is determinative of maturity; rather it is the progress made and growth achieved which is all-important."[1]      As the Christian learns and lives God's Word by faith and yields to the Spirit's guiding, there will be a gradual transformation of character that will be seen in one's thoughts, values, words, and actions as they pertain to family, friends, work, finances, and social life. Wendell Johnston states: "People who are spiritual do certain things as well as refrain from some things. They will express love to God without reservation and will love others in the body of Christ. They will even show love and graciousness to their enemies (Rom 12:9, 20–21). Spiritual people seek to live according to the principles set forth in Scripture and desire to study the Word of God and put into practice what it says (2 Tim 2:15; 3:14–17; Heb 4:12; 5:11–14; 1 Pet 2:2). They will seek to worship God individually and with other believers (Heb 10:22–25). Spirituality will be expressed by proper conduct in the home (Eph 5:22–6:4; 1 Pet 3:3–7), and people who are spiritual will lead Christlike lives in society and will respect civil authority (1 Pet 2:13–17). They will live godly lives even in a hostile environment (1 Pet 3:13–17)."[2]      Furthermore, there is always opposition to spiritual growth, for we live in a fallen world and are confronted with many obstacles and distractions that seek to push or pull us away from God. Though constant distractions are all around us, we move forward by “destroying speculations and every lofty thing raised up against the knowledge of God, and are taking every thought captive to the obedience of Christ” (2 Cor 10:5). Bringing our thoughts into captivity means focusing our minds on God and His Word (Psa 1:1-2; Isa 26:3; Prov 3:5-6; Col 3:1-2), and not allowing our thoughts to be bogged down and trapped with the cares of this world (Matt 6:25-34). This requires discipline. Spiritual Discipline      Spiritual maturity is the product of a disciplined life that is consciously and intentionally surrendered to God on a moment-by-moment basis. Discipline is doing what we ought to do, whether we want to do it or not, because it's right. Christian discipline is living as God wants us to live, as obedient-to-the-Word believers who walk by faith and not feelings. The proper Christian life glorifies the Lord, edifies others, and creates in us a personal sense of destiny that is connected with the God who called us into service. As we advance in our walk with the Lord, spiritual maturity is an important target, and this requires discipline of mind and will.      Paul, when writing to his young friend, Timothy, says, “discipline yourself for the purpose of godliness” (1 Tim 4:7). Paul does not deny the benefit of bodily discipline, but, when compared to godly discipline, says it “is only of little profit” (1 Tim 4:8a). Godliness translates the Greek noun eusebeia (εὐσέβεια) which denotes devotion to God and a life that is pleasing to Him. It means we are concerned with what the Lord thinks about us and we consciously choose to live as He directs. According to Robert B. Thieme, Jr., “Godliness is the virtuous manner of life that results from devotion to God—the lifestyle of the Christian growing in grace, relying upon divine power, applying divine viewpoint to circumstances, and thereby fulfilling God's will and plan (2 Tim 3:5; Tit 1:1; 2 Pet 1:3; 3:11).”[3]      Paul prioritizes godliness, declaring it “is profitable for all things, since it holds promise for the present life and also for the life to come” (1 Tim 4:8b). The word discipline in 1 Timothy 4:7 translates the Greek verb gumnazō (γυμνάζω), which we bring into the English as gymnasium. In secular use, it referred to how athletes trained in the ancient world, buffeting their bodies to improve their physique that they might have a chance at winning in a sport. However, in the New Testament, the word was used of training one's mental and spiritual abilities. The focus is on inward development of mind and character rather than the outward enhancement of the body. And the discipline is to be ongoing (present tense), carried out by each believer (active voice), and executed as a directive by the Lord (imperative mood). For Paul, godliness does not happen accidentally, but is connected with “the teaching that promotes godliness” (1 Tim 6:3), and “the knowledge of the truth which leads to godliness” (Tit 1:1). It is learned and lived on a daily basis.      The disciplined Christian develops over time, as biblical thinking leads to righteous acts, and righteous acts develop into godly habits, and godly habits produce godly character. Spiritual disciplines bring us to the place of spiritual maturity, which is God's desire for us (Heb 6:1). The writer to the Hebrews references mature believers, saying, “solid food is for the mature, who because of practice have their senses trained to discern good and evil” (Heb 5:14). Maturity translates the Greek adjective teleios (τέλειος) which denotes one who has attained a level of spiritual growth, which is witnessed in the daily application God's Word (Heb 4:1-2). Mature Christians are what they are because of practice and training. The word “practice” translates the Greek noun hexis (ἕξις), which, according to Louw-Nida, refers to “a repeated activity—practice, doing again and again, doing repeatedly.”[4] And the word “trained” translates the Greek verb gumnazō (γυμνάζω), which, according to Louw-Nida,  means “to experience vigorous training and control…to train, to undergo discipline.”[5] The advancing Christian eventually reaches a place of maturity when he/she is able “to discern good and evil” (Heb 5:14c). Thomas Constable states, “A person becomes a mature Christian, not only by gaining information, though that is foundational, but by using that information to make decisions that are in harmony with God's will.”[6] According to Arnold Fruchtenbaum: "A mature believer is one who is of full age spiritually. The Greek word for full-grown men is “goal.” A mature believer has attained the goal of his spiritual life because he did apply what he knew and was, therefore, open to learning more. Spiritual maturity is a result of careful exercise: for full-grown men, even those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern good and evil. A mature believer has the ability to make responsible decisions. The obligation of verse 14 is for all believers to make proper use of what they know…Usage of the Word causes believers to progress from immaturity to maturity; a lack of usage means regressing from maturity to immaturity."[7] Warren Wiersbe adds: "As we grow in the Word, we learn to use it in daily life. As we apply the Word, we exercise our “spiritual senses” and develop spiritual discernment. It is a characteristic of little children that they lack discernment. A baby will put anything into its mouth. An immature believer will listen to any preacher on the radio or television and not be able to identify whether or not he is true to the Scriptures. Just as our physical bodies have senses without which we could not function, so our inner “spiritual man” has “spiritual senses.”…As we feed on the Word of God and apply it in daily life, our inner “spiritual senses” get their exercise and become strong and keen. Paul called this process exercising ourselves unto godliness (1 Tim 4:7–8)."[8]      As growing Christians, we understand that God's Word is the standard for right thinking and conduct (orthodoxy and orthopraxy), and learning and living His Word by faith is the key to spiritual advance. As a growing Christian I want to be wise in the ways of God and His Word. But this requires commitment and many choices throughout my life. I realize the wise are wise by choice and never by chance. That is, no one is accidentally wise. This is also true for being just, loving, gracious, kind, and merciful, for these and other godly virtues are the product of many good choices over years of practice.      The successful Christian life starts with positive volition. Jesus said, “If anyone is willing to do His will, he will know of the teaching, whether it is of God or whether I speak from Myself” (John 7:17). The word “willing” translates the Greek verb thelō (θέλω), which, according to Louw & Nida, means “to desire to have or experience something—to desire, to want, to wish.”[9] To be “willing” to know and do God's will is the starting place for our advance to spiritual maturity. Our next step is to dig into God's Word and learn it. Jeremiah expressed positive volition when he said, “Your words were found and I ate them, and Your words became for me a joy and the delight of my heart” (Jer 15:16a). A psalmist wrote, “How sweet are Your words to my taste! Yes, sweeter than honey to my mouth!” (Psa 119:103), and “The law of Your mouth is better to me than thousands of gold and silver pieces” (Psa 119:72). Peter wrote, “like newborn babies, long for the pure milk of the word, so that by it you may grow in respect to salvation” (1 Pet 2:2). Learning God's Word serves as the basis for right living (Rom 12:1-2). Once we learn it, we must walk in it, which means applying it to our lives (Jam 1:22), and this by faith (2 Cor 5:7; Heb 10:38; 11:6). Ezra is a good example of a believer who learned and lived God's Word, as it is written, “Ezra had set his heart to study the law of the LORD and to practice it, and to teach His statutes and ordinances in Israel” (Ezra 7:10). When it states that Ezra had “set his heart,” it meant he had positive volition and was determined to learn and live God's Word. This is the proper order. When a Christian has a right will (orthothely), and operates with right thinking (orthodoxy), it establishes the basis for right behavior (orthopraxy). Positive volition, divine viewpoint thinking, and the walk of faith are what the Lord desires for us. When these are present, maturity will be achieved, it's just a matter of testing and time. Dr. Steven R. Cook     [1] Charles C. Ryrie, Dr. Ryrie's Articles (Bellingham, WA: Logos Bible Software, 2010), 91. [2] Wendell G. Johnston, “Spirituality,” The Theological Wordbook, 334–335. [3] Robert B. Thieme, Jr. “Godliness”, Thieme's Bible Doctrine Dictionary, (Houston, TX., R. B. Thieme, Jr., Bible Ministries, 2022), 111. [4] Johannes P. Louw and Eugene Albert Nida, Greek-English Lexicon of the New Testament: Based on Semantic Domains (New York: United Bible Societies, 1996), 511. [5] Ibid., 466. [6] Tom Constable, Tom Constable's Expository Notes on the Bible (Galaxie Software, 2003), Heb 5:14. [7] Arnold G. Fruchtenbaum, The Messianic Jewish Epistles: Hebrews, James, First Peter, Second Peter, Jude, 1st ed. (Tustin, CA: Ariel Ministries, 2005), 70. [8] Warren W. Wiersbe, The Bible Exposition Commentary, vol. 2 (Wheaton, IL: Victor Books, 1996), 295. [9] Johannes P. Louw and Eugene Albert Nida, Greek-English Lexicon of the New Testament: Based on Semantic Domains, 287.

Light on the Hill on Oneplace.com
Time is Almost Up Part 2

Light on the Hill on Oneplace.com

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 2, 2024 25:59


The Lord told us through His Word that in the last days there will be scoffers. They'll mock and ridicule the idea of Jesus returning and of a coming judgment. It's not hard to see that around us is it? Today on Light on the Hill pastor James Kaddis will point this out to us and remind us that Time is Almost Up. So how should we be living in light of that? Join us in Second Peter three for this enlightening study for these last days. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1459/29

Light on the Hill on Oneplace.com
Judged Like Filthy Animals Part 1

Light on the Hill on Oneplace.com

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 30, 2024 26:01


Today pastor James resumes his verse by verse study of Second Peter. In chapter two we'll see what happens when men and women rebel against God and ignore His commands, as well as what divine retribution looks like. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1459/29

Light on the Hill on Oneplace.com
God's Promise of Judgement is Near Part 2

Light on the Hill on Oneplace.com

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 29, 2024 26:01


God's judgement is coming, that we can be sure of, because God never lies and He told us it will happen. But you don't have to be on the receiving end of it, if you'll trust in Christ as your Lord and Savior. We'll talk about that today on Light on the Hill as we go deeper into Second Peter chapter one with pastor James Kaddis. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1459/29

Light on the Hill on Oneplace.com
The Power and Return of Christ Part 2

Light on the Hill on Oneplace.com

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 25, 2024 26:00


God has given us all we need for life and godliness, and we find that in His Word. But do we really believe that?? If so, our lives will reflect it. As we return to our study of Second Peter today with pastor James Kaddis we spotlight a marvelous truth, which is God has given us all we need in the Word of God. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1459/29

Light on the Hill on Oneplace.com
Your Eternity is the Key to Winning Now Part 1

Light on the Hill on Oneplace.com

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 22, 2024 26:00


Today pastor James Kaddis continues our study of Second Peter. These are Peter's final recorded words and they are powerful. Even his introductory greeting speaks volumes to us. He tells us grace and peace can be ours in abundance! Even in a world like ours. Let's see how, as we join pastor James for Light on the Hill. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1459/29

Redeemer Presbyterian Church in Austin
2 Peter 1:1-11 - Letters to Exiles: 1 & 2 Peter

Redeemer Presbyterian Church in Austin

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 21, 2024


We've all heard the funny story about the struggling student who sleeps with the textbook under his head, hoping to “learn by osmosis.” Unfortunately, we sometimes approach our Christian faith with the same kind of laxity. Instead of striving to grow in Christ, fight sin, and become more deeply aware of the work and word of God, we coast in and out of church hoping that something will stick. If you're struggling in your relationship with God, if you're not growing as a Christian, if you feel like this Christianity thing hasn't been working for you recently, you will be encouraged by Peter's call to an intentional faith this Sunday as we begin a new study in Second Peter.

Light on the Hill on Oneplace.com
Get Ready Jesus is Coming Soon Part 2

Light on the Hill on Oneplace.com

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 19, 2024 26:01


We're introducing Second Peter today. And if you love Bible prophecy you're going to love this epistle! A good portion of it really underscores the soon return of Jesus. Christ could come back at any moment, so we need to be ready. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1459/29

Light on the Hill on Oneplace.com
Get Ready Jesus is Coming Soon Part 1

Light on the Hill on Oneplace.com

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 18, 2024 26:01


The signs are obvious. When we look around we can't help but to see the evidence that the rapture of the church is around the corner and the stage is being set for what follows. With that in mind, Peter's second letter to the church is critical to understanding how to navigate through the time in which we live. Join us for our introduction to Second Peter here on Light on the Hill. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1459/29

Thinking on Scripture with Dr. Steven R. Cook
Soteriology Lesson 53 - Faith Without Works is Dead Part 1

Thinking on Scripture with Dr. Steven R. Cook

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 30, 2024 58:27


Introduction (Full Notes Here)      The debate over James 2:14-26 revolves around how to reconcile faith and works in the context of salvation.[1] Catholics and Arminians traditionally see faith and works as both essential for eternal salvation. Reformed theologians see James as setting forth a litmus test for authentic faith, contending that true saving faith is evidenced by a life of obedience and good works. In other words, while salvation is by grace through faith, genuine faith results in a transformed life marked by obedience to Christ as Lord. According to John Frame, “James 2:24, which speaks of justification by works, tells us that a faith without works is not saving faith, not true faith. So, works are evidence of a true, saving faith.”[2] John MacArthur adds, “Good works are inevitable in the life of one who truly believes. These works have no part in bringing about salvation (Eph 2:9; Rom 3:20, 24; 4:5; Tit 3:5), but they show that salvation is indeed present (Eph 2:10; 5:9; 1 John 2:5).”[3] R. C. Sproul states, “every true believer bears some fruit. If he does not, he's not a believer.”[4] Even some of my favorite Bible teachers hold this view. For example, Arnold Fruchtenbaum says, “Is a faith that produces no work whatsoever really a saving faith? The obvious answer is, ‘No.' The issue here is saving faith.”[5] And Charles Ryrie states, “Can a nonworking, dead, spurious faith save a person? James is not saying that we are saved by works but that a faith that does not produce good works is a dead faith…Genuine faith cannot be ‘dead' to morality or barren to works.”[6] According to Warren Wiersbe, “Any declaration of faith that does not result in a changed life and good works is a false declaration. That kind of faith is dead faith…Dead faith is not saving faith. Dead faith is counterfeit faith and lulls the person into a false confidence of eternal life.”[7] William MacDonald states, “works are not the root of salvation but the fruit; they are not the cause but the effect. Calvin put it tersely: ‘We are saved by faith alone, but not by a faith that is alone.'”[8]      Many proponents of this view assert that merely professing faith without a corresponding life of obedience can lead to self-deception and a false sense of security regarding one's salvation. One of the flaws of this view is that Christians spend much of their time looking at themselves and wondering if their works are genuine, or if they've done enough to prove their eternal salvation. Because sin continues in the lives of all Christians, and this to varying degrees, it leaves the believer in a state of uncertainty about their eternal destiny because they never know if their works represent a genuine saving faith.      In James 2:14-26; James is not distinguishing genuine from false faith; but rather, a useful faith that works to bless others, versus a useless faith that cannot save the Christian from divine discipline and loss of reward at the bema seat of Christ. For James, a dead faith is a useless faith that benefits no one, and his reference to salvation is from divine discipline, not the lake of fire. It's noteworthy that James 2:14-26 is sandwiched between two sections concerning divine judgement (Jam 2:12-13; 3:1). Biblically, disobedient Christians face God's judgment in this life as they are subject to divine discipline (Heb 12:6), which can eventuate in physical death (1 Cor 11:30; Jam 1:15, 21; 5:19-20; 1 John 5:16), as well as future judgment before the bema seat of Christ in heaven (Rom 14:10-12; 2 Cor 5:10). At the judgment seat of Christ, all Christians will stand before the Lord Jesus, not to determine if they have eternal life, for that is already secure for them (John 5:24; 10:28; 1 John 5:13), but to be evaluated on how they lived and rewards given for obedience to Him (1 Cor 3:10-15). This is important to understand, for when James poses the question, “What use is it, my brethren, if someone says he has faith but he has no works? Can that faith save him?” (Jam 2:14), he's talking about a useful faith that benefits others and saves the Christian from divine discipline in this life, which can eventuate in physical death, and loss of reward at the bema seat of Christ. The Usefulness of Faith      For James, faith must be put into use to be beneficial to others. In one sentence, James said, “faith, if it has no works, is dead” (Jam 2:17), and in another sentence, said, “faith without works is useless” (Jam 2:20). A dead faith is a useless faith. It is useless to God and others, being of no benefit to the needy. We use similar language when we talk about a “dead battery,” we're talking about a battery that is useless. And when we talk about Latin being a “dead language,” we mean it's no longer in use. Likewise, a dead faith is a useless faith. However, unlike a dead battery or a dead language, we have volition and the ability to put our faith into practice, making it useful to others. Which is why James previously wrote, “prove yourselves doers of the word, and not just hearers who deceive themselves” (Jam 1:22).      The teaching of Scripture is that sinners are saved totally apart from works. Paul wrote, “For we maintain that a man is justified by faith apart from works of the Law” (Rom 3:28), and salvation comes “to the one who does not work, but believes in Him who justifies the ungodly” (Rom 4:5). We are “not justified by the works of the Law but through faith in Christ Jesus, even we have believed in Christ Jesus, so that we may be justified by faith in Christ and not by the works of the Law; since by the works of the Law no flesh will be justified” (Gal 2:16), for “by grace you have been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God; not as a result of works, so that no one may boast” (Eph 2:8-9). God “has saved us and called us with a holy calling, not according to our works” (2 Tim 1:9a), and “He saved us, not on the basis of deeds which we have done in righteousness” (Tit 3:5a). Good works do not save us eternally. They never have and never will.      James is not contradicting Paul. They are addressing two different matters. Paul addresses justification before God, which is based entirely on the work of Christ at the cross and the imputed righteousness that comes to the one who trusts in Christ alone for salvation (Rom 5:17; 2 Cor 5:21; Phil 3:9). James addresses justification in the sight of others, what we might call vindication. God does not need to see our faith. He knows it's there. But others cannot see our faith, so good works help them to see what we claim to be true. Once saved, we are called to “walk by faith, not by sight” (2 Cor 5:7). God said, “My righteous one shall live by faith” (Heb 10:38), for “without faith it is impossible to please Him” (Heb 11:6). And we know that “whatever is not from faith is sin” (Rom 14:23). Furthermore, Christians are commanded to love others (John 13:34; Gal 5:13; 1 Th 4:9). This love is to be actionable and tangible (Jam 2:15-16; 1 John 3:17-18). Also, we are directed to do good works, which glorify God and edify others. Jesus said, “Let your light shine before men in such a way that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in heaven” (Matt 5:16; cf. Eph 2:10). God's Word directs us to “do good to all people, and especially to those who are of the household of the faith” (Gal 6:10), “to do good, to be rich in good works, to be generous and ready to share” (1 Tim 6:18), to be “zealous for good deeds” (Tit 2:14b), to “learn to engage in good deeds to meet pressing needs” (Tit 3:14a), “to stimulate one another to love and good deeds” (Heb 10:24). Failure of Christians to put their faith into action means they are disobedient to the Lord and subject to divine discipline. Scripture reveals, “those whom the Lord loves He disciplines, and chastises every son whom He receives” (Heb 12:6). Jesus said, “Those whom I love, I reprove and discipline” (Rev 3:19a). Paul wrote, “But when we are judged, we are disciplined by the Lord so that we will not be condemned along with the world” (1 Cor 11:32).[9] With these doctrines in mind, let's look at James 2:14-26. Dr. Steven R. Cook   [1] James clearly wrote to saved persons, Jewish believers, whom he called “brethren” (Jam 1:2, 16, 19; 2:1, 5, 14; 3:1, 10, 12; 4:11; 5:7, 9-10, 12, 19), confirmed they were born from above (Jam 1:17-18), and said they had “faith in our glorious Lord Jesus Christ” (Jam 2:1). He said the Holy Spirit dwelled in them (Jam 4:5), which proved they were Christians, for “if anyone does not have the Spirit of Christ, he does not belong to Him” (Rom 8:9). The main purpose of James' letter was to exhort Christians to spiritual maturity (Jam 1:4), which manifests itself in practical righteousness. James in no way contradicts Paul. Paul wrote about justification in the sight of God (Rom 3:28; 4:1-5; Gal 2:16), whereas James wrote about being justified in the sight of others (Jam 2:18, 24). [2] John M. Frame, Salvation Belongs to the Lord: An Introduction to Systematic Theology (Phillipsburg, NJ: P&R Publishing, 2006), 205. [3] John F. Macarthur, Jr., “Faith According To The Apostle James” Journal of the Evangelical Theological Society, Vol 33/1: March 1990, 18. [4] R. C. Sproul, Can I Be Sure I'm Saved?, vol. 7, The Crucial Questions Series (Lake Mary, FL: Reformation Trust Publishing, 2010), 15. [5] Arnold G. Fruchtenbaum, The Messianic Jewish Epistles: Hebrews, James, First Peter, Second Peter, Jude, 1st ed., (Tustin, CA: Ariel Ministries, 2005), 253 [6] Charles Caldwell Ryrie, Ryrie Study Bible: New American Standard Bible, 1995 Update, Expanded ed. (Chicago: Moody Press, 1995, 1970), 1970. [7] Warren W. Wiersbe, The Bible Exposition Commentary, vol. 2 (Wheaton, IL: Victor Books, 1996), 354. [8] William MacDonald, Believer's Bible Commentary: Old and New Testaments, ed. Arthur Farstad (Nashville: Thomas Nelson, 1995), 2229. [9] He gave to us It is never the will of God that we sin (1 John 2:1), but all saints commit sin, and there is no such thing as a sinless saint. David wrote, “my sins have overtaken me…they are more numerous than the hairs of my head” (Psa 40:12), and “I know my transgressions, and my sin is ever before me” (Psa 51:3). Paul said of himself, “For the good that I want, I do not do, but I practice the very evil that I do not want…I find then the principle that evil is present in me, the one who wants to do good” (Rom 7:19, 21). And the John wrote, “If we say that we have no sin, we are deceiving ourselves and the truth is not in us…If we say that we have not sinned, we make Him a liar and His word is not in us” (1 John 1:8, 10). James said, “we all stumble in many ways” (Jam 3:2a). Though forgiven all our sins (Acts 10:43; Eph 1:7), and saved (Eph 2:8), Christians continue to possess a sin nature (Rom 6:6; 7:14-25; 13:14; Col 3:9; Gal 5:16-17, 19-22; 1 John 1:8), and commit personal acts of sin (Eccl 7:20; 1 John 1:10; 2:1). Though the power of the sin nature is broken (Rom 6:11-14), the presence of the sin nature is never removed from us until God takes us from this world and gives us a new body like the body of Jesus (Phil 3:20-21; 1 John 3:2, 5). It is possible for saints to commit any sin an unbeliever can commit, to the same degree, and for the same duration of time. That's not what God wants from us. He wants righteousness. It's possible for Christians to live sinfully, though not without consequences. Living sinfully does not mean loss of eternal salvation, for that is not possible. Jesus said, the one who believes in Him “has eternal life, and does not come into judgment, but has passed out of death into life” (John 5:24), and “I give eternal life to them, and they will never perish; and no one will snatch them out of My hand” (John 10:28). Paul wrote, “there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus” (Rom 8:1). But if Christians choose to operate by the sinful flesh (1 Cor 3:1-3), love the world (1 John 2:15-16), and live sinfully, like the prodigal son (Luke 15:11-24), they open the door to divine discipline and great suffering (Heb 12:5-11), which can eventuate in physical death (1 Cor 11:30; Jam 1:15, 21; 5:19-20; 1 John 5:16), and the loss of eternal rewards (1 Cor 3:10-15; 2 John 1:8).  

Light on the Hill on Oneplace.com
In the Volume of the Book Part 18b

Light on the Hill on Oneplace.com

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 17, 2024 26:00


We're at the tail-end of a 20 part series called, In the Volume of the Book. James is drawing our attention to the prophecy contained in each book of the Bible, and today it's First and Second Peter. We'll observe some promises that be unsettling to some, but very encouraging to others. Like the end is near! There will be false teachers in the last days, as well as scoffers, and the earth will one day be destroyed by fire. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1459/29

Christ the King Church
6 Characteristics of False Teachers

Christ the King Church

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 24, 2024


6 Characteristics of False Teachers. Second Peter 2:4-16. Lead Pastor Michael Clary