"The First Chapter of Church History"

 

Acts 1:1-14 "The former treatise have I made, O Theophilus, of all that JESUS began both to do and teach, until the day in which HE was taken up, after that HE through the HOLY GHOST had given commandments unto the apostles whom HE had chosen: to whom also HE showed HIMSELF alive after HIS passion by many infallible proofs, being seen of them forty days, and speaking of the things pertaining to the kingdom of GOD: and, being assembled together with them, commanded them that they should not depart from Jerusalem, but  wait for the promise of the FATHER, which, saith HE, ye have heard of ME. For John truly baptized with water; but ye shall be baptized with the HOLY GHOST not many days hence. When they therefore were come together, they asked of HIM, saying, LORD, wilt THOU at this time restore again the kingdom to Israel ? And HE said unto them, It is not for you to know the times or the seasons, which the FATHER hath put in HIS OWN power.

But ye shall receive power, after that the HOLY GHOST is come upon you; and ye shall be witnesses unto ME both in Jerusalem, and in all Judea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth. And when HE had spoken these things, while they beheld, HE was taken up; and a cloud received HIM out of their sight. And while they looked steadfastly toward heaven as HE went up, behold, two men stood by them in white apparel; which also said, Ye men of Galilee, why stand ye gazing up into heaven ? this same JESUS, which is taken up from you into heaven, shall so come in like manner as ye have seen HIM go into heaven. Then returned they unto Jerusalem from the mount called Olivet, which is from Jerusalem a sabbath's days journey. And when they were come in, they went up into an upper room, where abode both Peter, and James, and John, and Andrew, Philip, and Thomas, Bartholomew, and Matthew, James the son of Alpheus, and Simon Zelotes, and Judas the brother of James. These all continued with one accord in prayer and supplication, with the women, and Mary the Mother of JESUS, and with HIS brethren."

     One of the finest pieces of literature in the world is the book of Acts. It tells the story of how, out of what appeared to be a tragic failure (the death of CHRIST), a movement was born that was destined to conquer the world and, in GOD's time, to establish a kingdom of truth and righteousness that shall never pass away. The story spans not centuries but basically a single generation of about thirty-three years. This fact, by itself, is astonishing because the progress of the greatest movements is generally slow. In the truest sense, the book of Acts is a book of both words and deeds.

     We can estimate the value of a book by considering the degree of loss man would experience if it had never been written. Judged in this way, it is safe to say that if Acts had not been penned, we would have a blank in our knowledge that nothing could supply. Remember that Luke ends his Gospel with these words: "And it came to pass, while [JESUS] blessed them, HE was parted from them, and carried up into heaven. And they worshiped HIM, and returned to Jerusalem with great joy: and were continually in the temple, praising and blessing GOD. AMEN" (Luke 24:51-53 pictured above). By omitting Acts, the subsequent epistles would essentially be unintelligible to any reader. Their content would be like a maze, providing no clue as to how to solve the puzzle. Hundreds of questions would arise that would have no answers. But supply the book of Acts and all becomes clear. Acts is the first chapter of church history. The last is not yet written. To be ignorant of the birth and development of the church recorded in this book would be to float adrift in a sea of uncertainty. Thank GOD for the history of the book of Acts. JED

Your servant in CHRIST,

Julie

Copyright, FEATURE: A Daily Bible Study Guide.

Used  with  permission.    www.featoday.org

" I Am Praying for You ! "

 

1st.Samuel 12:16-25 "Now therefore stand and see this great thing, which the LORD will do before your eyes. Is it not wheat harvest to day ? I will call unto the LORD, and HE shall send thunder and rain; that ye may perceive and see that your wickedness is great, which ye have done in the sight of the LORD, in asking you a King. So Samuel called unto the LORD; and the LORD sent thunder and rain that day: and all the people greatly feared the LORD and Samuel. And all the people said unto Samuel, Pray for thy servants unto the LORD thy GOD, that we die not: for we have added unto all our sins this evil, to ask us a King. And Samuel said unto the people, Fear not: ye have done all this wickedness: yet turn not aside from following the LORD, but serve the LORD with all your heart;

and turn ye not aside: for then should ye go after vain things, which cannot profit nor deliver; for they are vain. For the LORD will not forsake HIS people for HIS great name's sake: because it hath pleased the LORD to make you HIS people. Moreover as for me, GOD forbid that I should sin against the LORD in ceasing to pray for you: but I will teach you the good and the right way: only fear the LORD, and serve HIM in truth with all your heart: for consider how great things HE hath done for you. But if ye shall still do wickedly, ye shall be consumed, both ye and your King."

     Samuel was fervent in his concern for his brethren: "Moreover as for me, GOD forbid that I should sin against the LORD in ceasing to pray for you" (v.23a pictured at top of post). He interceded for those who were walking afar off, who were in desperate need of help from on HIGH. This faithful servant of the LORD had no trouble pinpointing the cause of Israel's current plight, for they had rejected his leadership as a divinely appointed judge and had requested a King to rule over them so they could be like the surrounding nations. They were now suffering the consequences of seeking their own will rather than submitting to GOD's will. It would have been easy for Samuel to have replied to their request for help with a smug "I told you so" (vv.16-19). However, he displayed a gracious attitude toward his "weaker brethren" -- an example we ought to emulate.

     In a spirit of selflessness and genuine concern, Samuel desired GOD's best for Israel. Yes, they had failed the LORD, but HE still desired to accomplish much in and through them (v.22). The grand theme of this text is how the heartfelt, intercessory prayer of Samuel was instrumental in moving GOD to bring about the accomplishment of HIS desired will in others, even though they had done "all this wickedness" (v.20). Samuel encouraged the people of Israel to walk aright (vv.20-25). The supplications to put away sin, to turn not aside from doing GOD's will, and to "serve the LORD with all your heart" (v.20) should characterize our prayers for the spiritual wellbeing of others (Ephesians 6:18-20 pictured above; Philippians 1:3-9; Colossians 1:9-12 pictured above). Are we today performing this necessary ministry of intercessory prayer on behalf of fellow brothers and sisters in CHRIST ? DWC

Your servant in CHRIST,

Julie

Copyright, FEATURE: A Daily Bible Study Guide

Used  with  permission.    www.featoday.org

" Divine Opposition "

 

Jeremiah 23:25-32 "I have heard what the prophets said that prophesy lies in MY name, saying, I have dreamed, I have dreamed. How long shall this be in the heart of the prophets that prophesy lies ? Yea, they are prophets of the deceits of their own hearts; which think to cause MY people to forget MY name by their dreams which they tell every man to his neighbor, as their fathers have forgotten MY name for Baal. The prophet that hath a dream, let him tell a dream; and he that hath MY WORD, let him speak MY WORD faithfully. What is the chaff to the wheat ? saith the LORD. Is not MY WORD like as a fire ? saith the LORD; and like a hammer that breaketh the rock in pieces ? Therefore, behold, I AM against the prophets, saith the LORD, that steal MY WORDs every one from his neighbor. Behold, I AM against the prophets, saith the LORD, that use their tongues, and say, HE saith. Behold, I AM against them that prophesy false dreams, saith the LORD, and do tell them, and cause MY people to err by their lies, and by their lightness; yet I sent them not, nor commanded them: therefore they shall not profit this people at all, saith the LORD."

     In Jeremiah's day, false prophets attracted great attention and large followings by telling their dreams to all who would listen. No doubt many of those dreams were fascinating, exciting the imaginations of the crowd and leaving people "on the edge of their seats" to hear what was coming next. But these dreamers forgot one thing -- the LORD knew that their dreams were the product of deceived hearts and that they were leading the masses away from HIM, not toward HIM (vv.25-25 pictured above). God knew that their real purpose was to cause the people to forget HIM, making Judah ripe for almost every kind of false doctrine and idolatry that came along. HE illustrated the vast difference between telling a mere dream and faithfully speaking HIS WORD (vv. 28-29). HE reminded the Israelites that HIS WORD is powerful and beneficial, unlike the dreams of these false prophets whose messages were but "chaff" compared to the wheat. The WORD of GOD would, "as a fire," incinerate the presumptuous claims of the deceivers and, "like a hammer," destroy the evil inventions of their heart (v.29 pictured below).

     In our day, we, too, have an abundance of "dreamers" -- ecumenical dreamers, charismatic dreamers, and, more recently, evangelical dreamers. New programs that supposedly provide a better way to do the work of the LORD regularly emerge. But when comparing the dreams of these groups with the Bible, it becomes clear that no matter how sincere they may be, they are deceiving themselves and their followers. The Bible must be the believer's sole authority for faith and practice. Man's motives, even if they are honorable, must bear fruit that aligns with scriptural principles.

     Three times in the last three verses of today's text GOD said that HE was against the false prophets, and in each instance, HE explained why this was so. In verse thirty, GOD was against the prophets who stole HIS WORDs from their neighbors. It is a terrible thing to withhold GOD's truth from those who need to hear it. In verse thirty-one, GOD opposed the prophets who falsely claimed to be speaking HIS WORD. This text reveals just how much the LORD hates such brazen deception. In verse thirty-two, GOD rebuked the prophets who told false dreams and caused HIS people to err. These phony prophets certainly incurred the wrath of GOD. Furthermore, the LORD told them that they would be of no help at all to their followers (v.32). How hardened the hearts of these prophets must have been in order for them to continue telling their lies despite the damage that was being done to themselves and their listeners. Straying from the SHEPHERD's care causes the believer to be easy prey for the ravening wolves (Matthew 7:15 pictured above; Acts 20:29 pictured below).

    Sadly, a similar situation exists today. Far too many people want to hear supposed dreams or a "prophetic word" rather than the sure WORD of GOD, or they want a social gathering, not doctrine. Far too many sound Pastors are unwilling to warn about the dangers of the ecumenical, charismatic, and evangelical dreamers. As a result, immature, unspiritual, and undiscerning people are being carried away with every wind of doctrine (Ephesians 4:14 pictured below). Do not listen to these dreamers and certainly do not support them ! Rather, warn about their dangerous words, stay by the sure WORD, and stand with faithful Christian leaders who refuse to compromise GOD's truth when under fire. MHR

Your servant in CHRIST,

Julie

Copyright, FEATURE: A Daily Bible Study Guide.

Used  with  permission.   www.featoday.org

"The Tie-Breaking Vote !"

 

Being elected to a public office is truly a GOD-ordained position, but there is a higher office which you must obtain. Here is how:

HOW TO QUALIFY.

You must accept this fact: "As it is written, There is none righteous, no, not one:" (Romans 3:10)

HOW TO VIEW YOURSELF.

You are a sinner, "For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of GOD;" (Romans 3:23)

YOUR OPPONENT.

Sin hinders your race, "Wherefore, as by one man (Adam) sin entered into the world, and death by sin; and so death passed upon all men, for that all have sinned:" (Romans 5:12)

THE COST TO WIN THE RACE.

The cost is much higher than your personal efforts or campaign funds could ever cover. "Not by works of righteousness which we have done. . ." (Titus 3:5a) "But we are all as an unclean thing, and all our righteousnesses are as filthy rags. . ." (Isaiah 64:6a)

A LEGAL CAMPAIGN CONTRIBUTION

HAS BEEN MADE.

Even though you are unable to pay the price to win this race, SOMEONE has paid it for you ! "For when we were yet without strength, in due time CHRIST died for the ungodly." (Romans 5:6) "Moreover, brethren, I declare unto you the Gospel which I preached unto you, which also ye have received, and wherein ye stand; by which also ye are saved, . .For I delivered unto you first of all that which I also received, how that CHRIST died for our sins according to the Scriptures; and that HE was buried, and that HE rose again the third day according to the Scriptures:" (1st.Corinthians 15:1-2a, 3-4)

THE ONLY WAY TO PAY THE DEBT.

"That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the LORD JESUS, and shalt believe in thine heart that GOD hath raised HIM from the dead, thou shalt be saved. For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation. . .For whosoever shall call upon the name of the LORD shall be saved." (Romans 10:9-10,13)

THE TIE-BRAKING VOTE !

Satan has voted against you ! "Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the Devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour:" (1st.Peter 5:8)

JESUS CHRIST has voted for you ! "Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down HIS life for HIS friends." (John 15:13)

YOU cast the tie-breaking-vote ! If you have never trusted the eternity of your soul to JESUS CHRIST, you haven't really believed on HIM. Your vote is now with Satan, and you stand condemned. If you are concerned enough about the eternal destiny of your own soul, right now where you are, cast your vote with JESUS CHRIST by putting your complete faith and trust in HIM as your personal SAVIOR.

THE CHOICE IS YOURS !

"He that believeth on HIM is not condemned: but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten SON of GOD." (John 3:18)

     Will you accept the office of a Christian ? Will you serve the true and living GOD ? The office is yours if you will ask JESUS CHRIST to forgive your sins, and you will put your complete trust in HIM to save your soul. Take GOD at HIS WORD and claim HIS promise for your own salvation. Remember, "For whosoever shall call upon the name of the LORD shall be saved." (Romans 10:13)

     If you would be willing to turn to CHRIST in repentance (a turning to GOD from your sin) and faith, pray this simple prayer of salvation:

LORD, I know that I am a sinner, and I believe YOU died and rose again for me. I am trusting YOU to forgive me. Come into my heart and save me. Help me to live for you always. In JESUS' name I pray, AMEN.

JESUS said, "Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that hears MY WORD, and believes on HIM that sent ME, hath everlasting life, and shall not come into condemnation; but is passed from death unto life." (John 5:24)

Your servant in CHRIST,

Julie

" It's a HONEY of a DEAL ! "

 

THE DEAL

HEAVEN OF HELL, WHICH ONE FOR YOU ?

GOD gives every man the following choice: "For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of GOD is eternal life through JESUS CHRIST our LORD." (Romans 6:23)

THE NEGATIVE ASPECTS OF THE DEAL

1.  The Bible states that you are a sinner. "For there is not a just man upon Earth, that doeth good, and sinneth not." (Ecclesiastes 7:20) "As it is written, There is none righteous, no, not one:" (Romans 3:10)

2.  The price of sin is to be separated from GOD and to spend all eternity in a Devil's Hell. "Wherefore, as by one man (Adam) sin entered into the world, and death by sin; and so death passed upon all men, for that all have sinned:" (Romans 5:12) "And death and hell were cast into the Lake of Fire. This is the second death. And whosoever was not found written in the Book of Life was cast into the Lake of Fire." (Revelation 20:14-15)

THE POSITIVE ASPECTS OF THE DEAL

1.  JESUS CHRIST, the SON of GOD, has paid the penalty for your sin. ". . .without shedding of blood is no remission." (Hebrews 9:22b) "But GOD commendeth HIS love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, CHRIST died for us." (Romans 5:8) "For the life of the flesh is in the blood: and I have given it to you upon the altar to make an atonement for your souls: for it is the blood that maketh an atonement for the soul." (Leviticus 17:11) "Moreover, brethren, I declare unto you the Gospel which I preached unto you, which also ye have received, and wherein ye stand; by which also ye are saved, . . For I delivered unto you first of all that which I also received, how that CHRIST died for our sins according to the Scriptures; and that HE was buried, and that HE rose again the third day according to the Scriptures:" (1st.Corinthians 15:1-2a,3-4)

2.  Salvation is a gift, and cannot be earned. "For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of GOD: Not of works, lest any man should boast." (Ephesians 2:8-9) "Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to HIS mercy HE saved us. . ." (Titus 3:5a)

THE TERMS OF THE DEAL

1.  ". . .Sirs, what must I do to be saved ? And they said, Believe on the LORD JESUS CHRIST, and thou shalt be saved. . ." (Acts 16:30-31a) "Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under Heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved." (Acts 4:12) "He that believeth on the SON hath everlasting life: and he that believeth not the SON shall not see life; but the wrath of GOD abideth on him." (John 3:36)

2.  Are you willing to accept GOD's deal ? If you are, admit to GOD that you are a guilty sinner (repentance) and that you desire to be delivered from your sinful condition. ". . .except ye repent (turning to GOD from your sin), ye shall all likewise perish." (Luke 13:3)

3.  GOD gives you this promise: "That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the LORD JESUS, and shalt believe in thine heart that GOD hath raised HIM from the dead, thou shalt be saved. For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation. . .For whosoever shall call upon the name of the LORD shall be saved." (Romans 10:9-10,13)

If you would be willing to turn to CHRIST in repentance and faith, pray this simple prayer of salvation:

LORD, I know that I am a sinner, and I believe YOU died and rose again for me. I am trusting YOU to forgive me. Come into my heart and save me. Help me to live for YOU always. In JESUS' name I pray, AMEN.

JESUS said, "Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that hears MY WORD, and believes on HIM that sent ME, hath everlasting life, and shall not come into condemnation; but is passed from death unto life." (John 5:24)  Don't wait to take advantage of this deal; it is only good in this life only.

Your servant in CHRIST,

Julie

" What Saith the Scripture ? "

 

Romans 4:3 "For what saith the Scripture ? Abraham believed GOD, and it was counted unto him for righteousness."

     Twice in the WORD of GOD, we read this important challenge: "What saith the Scripture?" (here in today's text and in Galatians 4:30). In a day when we are being told all kinds of strange things about what the Bible supposedly teaches, it is necessary to ask ourselves, "What saith the Scripture ?" It is not the most popular television or internet preacher or the most flamboyant purveyor of supposedly new truth that should be consulted when we have questions about the Bible. Instead we should fall back on this question that Paul asked twice: "What saith the Scripture ?" In other words, what does the Bible say ? Let IT speak for ITSELF as the means and standard of truth.

     This is especially true when dealing with the critical issue of sin. Ask average citizens on the street and you will be sure to receive myriads of answers to the question "What is sin ?" Yet, the Bible is extremely clear on the matter. Sin is transgressing the righteous Law of GOD. The Apostle John recorded this truth in 1st.John 3:4 (pictured above) -- "Whosoever committeth sin transgresseth also the Law: for sin is the transgression of the Law." In plain words: "All unrighteousness is sin" (1st.John 5:17). Unrighteousness is a comprehensive term for wrong or wrong-doing: a deed or deeds violating law and justice; and men have speculated about the classifications of sin. The LORD simply calls sin, sin. The SPIRIT of GOD convicts all of sin (John 16:8 pictured above), especially the sin of not believing on CHRIST (John 16:9 pictured above). This puts all rejectors of the LORD JESUS into one class: spiritually dead (Romans 3:23; Ephesians 2:1). Be sure you have trusted CHRIST and have your sins cleansed. JED

Your servant in CHRIST,

Julie

Copyright, FEATURE: A Daily Bible Study Guide.

Used  with  permission.    www.featoday.org

" The Witness of GOD Is Greater ! "

 

1st.John 5:9-15  "If we receive the witness of men, the witness of GOD is greater: for this is the witness of GOD which HE hath testified of HIS SON. He that believeth on the SON of GOD hath the witness in himself: he that believeth not GOD hath made HIM a liar; because he believeth not the record that GOD gave of HIS SON. And this is the record, that GOD hath given to us eternal life, and this life is in HIS SON. He that hath the SON hath life; and he that hath not the SON of GOD hath not life. These things have I written unto you that believe on the name of the SON Of GOD; that ye may know that ye have eternal life, and that ye may believe on the name of the SON of GOD. And this is the confidence that we have in HIM, that if we ask any thing according to HIS will, HE heareth us: and if we know that HE hears us, whatsoever we ask, we know that we have the petitions that we desired of HIM."

     The Bible is not merely the "witness of men" -- it is "the witness of GOD," which is far greater (v.9 pictured at top of post). If the Scriptures are not GOD's WORD, then we have no basis for our faith. All we know about our LORD, about salvation, and about life both now and hereafter is from what we find within the pages of the Holy Bible. If we cannot wholeheartedly and unreservedly believe GOD's WORD from start to finish ("All Scripture is given by inspiration of GOD," 2nd.Timothy 3:16 pictured in full above), then we cannot be certain of anything. However, the LORD desires assurance for HIS own, and the WORD faithfully drives home that point. GOD wants every believer to be confident in his or her salvation (v.13).

     Today's text assures the reader that the Bible is GOD's "record" (v.11), so mankind can be certain that what is written therein is absolutely true. The HOLY SPIRIT of GOD divinely inspired the Apostle John as he wrote of "these things" (v.13); as a result, the one who reads and believes what John has written can also have confidence that what GOD has promised in this text, HE will also fulfill. Whether it be the witness of GOD pertaining to salvation through faith in the SON (vv.10-13) or to the promise of answered prayer in the life of the believer (vv.14-15), our heavenly FATHER will honor what HE has AUTHORED. Our salvation, from start to finish, is anchored in the "great and precious promises" of GOD's WORD (2nd.Peter 2:4 pictured above). If the Bible merely "contains" the WORD of GOD or is only the thoughts rather than the very WORDs of GOD, then we have no basis for confidence in anything expounded therein, including salvation. But Scripture records John's affirmation: "These things have I written. . .that ye may know" (v.13) ! DWC

Your servant in CHRIST,

Julie

Copyright, FEATURE: A Daily Bible Study Guide.

Used  with  permission.    www.featoday.org

" Noah Found Grace . . . . . . . "

 

"Noah found grace in the eyes of the LORD." (Genesis 6:8) The days of Noah were evil because, ". . .the wickedness of man was great in the earth. . ." (Genesis 6:5) He believed that judgment was coming, and the only safe place was in the ark.

The Bible says; "By faith Noah, being warned of GOD of things not seen as yet, moved with fear, prepared an ark to the saving of his house; by the which he condemned the world, and became heir of the righteousness which is by faith." (Hebrews 11:7) Noah and his family put their faith and trust in GOD.

Dear Friend, have you put your trust in GOD ?

You ask, "What does it mean to trust GOD ?"

FIRST, trust GOD when HE says that every person is a sinner.

The Bible tells us in Romans 3:10, ". . . There is none righteous, no, not one."

And again Romans 3:23 says, "For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of GOD."

Our sins have separated us from GOD. Before you can know that you have eternal life and that you will go to Heaven, you must first know and believe that you are a sinner.

SECOND, trust GOD when HE says that our sin debt must be paid.

Romans 6:23 says, "For the wages of sin is death. . ." According to GOD's WORD, we are all sinners, and our sin must be paid for. If we fail to trust GOD in this life, we will die without CHRIST and spend eternity separated from GOD.

THIRD, trust GOD when HE says that CHRIST died for our sins and rose from the dead.

The Bible tells us in Romans 5:8, "But GOD commendeth HIS love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, CHRIST died for us." The best news that anyone could ever tell you is that JESUS CHRIST died for your sins. All our sins were laid on HIM. HE paid our sin debt in full.

CHRIST shed HIS blood on Calvary for you, because ". . .without shedding of blood is no remission" of sin (Hebrews 9:22). Then HE rose from the dead, and HE said to those who trust HIM, ". . .Because I live, ye shall live also" (John 14:19).

FOURTH, trust GOD when HE says we must personally receive CHRIST as our SAVIOR.

Romans 10:13 says, "For whosoever shall call upon the name of the LORD shall be saved." That "whosoever" means you. GOD allows you to choose whether or not you will trust HIM.

A person can believe that GOD loves him. He can believe that he is a sinner and that sin must be paid for. But if he is not willing to put his faith and trust in CHRIST, he will die lost and be separated from GOD forever.

LET US REVIEW FOR A MOMENT.

Do you realize that GOD loves you ? (John 3:16)

Do you believe that you are a sinner ? (Romans 3:23)

Do you agree with the Bible that your sin debt must be paid for ? (Romans 6:23)

Do you believe that CHRIST died for you ? (Romans 5:8)

Do you see that you must call upon the LORD to save you ? (Romans 10:13)

If you would be willing to turn to CHRIST in repentance (a turning to GOD from your sin) and faith, pray this simple prayer of salvation:

LORD, I know that I am a sinner, and I believe YOU died and rose again for me. I am trusting YOU to forgive me. Come into my heart and save me. Help me to live for YOU always. In JESUS' name I pray, AMEN.

The LORD JESUS said, ". . .I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish. . ." (John 10:28). Everlasting life is ours when we receive CHRIST as our personal SAVIOR.

Now that you're a Christian:

* Share your new-found-faith with you family & friends (Acts 16:31-33).

* Identify with CHRIST through believer's baptism and become part of a local, Bible-believing church (Acts 2:4147).

JESUS said, "Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that hears MY WORD, and believes on HIM that sent ME, hath everlasting life, and shall not come into condemnation; but is passed from death unto life." (John 5:24)

Your servant in CHRIST,

Julie

GULF COAST BAPTIST CHURCH

Pastor Tom Sexton

312 SE 24th. Avenue

Cape Coral, FL 33990

(239) 574-1000

GulfCoastBaptist@aol.com

www.gulfcoastbaptistchurch.com

" I Must Tell You This ! "

 

I KNOW SOMETHING SO WONDERFUL that I must tell you ! It is so vital that it may change your entire future as it did mine. In fact, the decision you make about it will affect you both in life and death. 

     Let me emphasize that this message is absolutely true, because GOD said it. When GOD makes a promise, you can rest upon it, because HIS promises can never fail. GOD will not make you believe this message, that is your choice, but HE will hold you responsible for having heard it.

     It is a very personal message, something you must decide. You must say either, "I will" or "I will not." Here is the message It is an exact quotation from GOD's WORD, the Holy Bible:

"For GOD so loved the world, that HE gave HIS only begotten SON, that whosoever believes in HIM should not perish, but have everlasting life." John 3:16

     Did you ever hear such wonderful words ? Think for a moment what they say. They reveal three marvelous facts.

[] First, "GOD so loved the world" ! Since you are in the world, HE loved you. If that doesn't astonish you, remember, that when GOD loved you, HE loved a sinner ! The Bible says in Romans 3:23, "For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of GOD;". If you are honest, you will agree.

     Although GOD loves you, HE still hates your sin. Since GOD is Holy, HE must punish sin. HE must make a holy way of saving sinners. Otherwise, the sinner must pay for his own sins, and that would mean spending eternity in a Devil's Hell. Revelation 20:15 says, "And whosoever was not found written in the Book of Life was cast into the Lake of Fire."

[] Secondly, "HE gave HIS only begotten SON" ! GOD loved you so much, that HE sent HIS SON to Earth to become a man and die on the cross of Calvary, so that you might be saved. 1st.Corinthians 15:1-2a,3-4 tells us, "Moreover, brethren, I declare unto you the Gospel which I preached unto you, which also ye have received, and wherein ye stand; by which also ye are saved, . .For I delivered unto you first of all that which I also received, how that CHRIST died for our sins according to the Scriptures; and that HE was buried, and that HE rose again the third day according to the Scriptures:"

     You see, someone must pay the penalty of sin, either you or a sinless substitute. GOD gave HIS SON, JESUS CHRIST, to be your sinless substitute. HE shed HIS blood so that your sins might be put away, so that you might have eternal life.

[] Thirdly, "Whosoever believes in HIM should not perish, but everlasting life" ! Think of it ! GOD gives eternal life to those who believe in JESUS CHRIST. The SAVIOR has "finished" the work. HE has died. HE has risen from the grave, and HE has gone back into Heaven. Now your part is to believe in HIM.

     This simply means that you must agree that you are a sinner, realize that CHRIST paid the "full" penalty for your sins, and then receive HIM in repentance (a turning to GOD from your sin) and faith, as your LORD and SAVIOR.

     This is the message which I had to tell you. Now you must make a decision. Will you accept HIM, or reject HIM ? Will you believe in HIM, or refuse HIM ? Think of it once again:

"For GOD so loved the world, that HE gave HIS only begotten SON, that whosoever believes in HIM should not perish, but have everlasting life." John 3:16

     Your time on Earth is so very short, but your decision for CHRIST lasts for eternity. Will you receive JESUS CHRIST as your personal SAVIOR and be confident of everlasting life ? If you would be willing to turn to CHRIST in repentance and faith, pray this simple prayer of salvation:

LORD, I know that I am a sinner, and I believe YOU died and rose again for me. I am trusting YOU to forgive me. Come into my heart and save me. Help me to live for you always. In JESUS' name I pray, AMEN.

     The LORD JESUS said in John 5:24, "Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that hears MY WORD, and believes on HIM that sent ME, hath everlasting life, and shall not come into condemnation; but is passed from death unto life."

Your servant in CHRIST,

Julie

" What is STOPPING You from Heaven ? "

 

. . . Unforgiven, unrepentant pride & sin ! GOD says in HIS WORD that we are all born sinners, "For all have sinned and come short of the glory of GOD." (Romans 3:23). Also in Romans 3:10-12 GOD says, "As it is written, There is none righteous, no, not one; there is none that understandeth, there is none that seeketh after GOD. They are all gone out of the way, they are together become unprofitable; there is none that doeth good, no, not one."

Long before the world was ever created GOD made a plan to redeem (save) mankind from their sin debt. You see, just as in human terms, when someone does something against the Law they must pay for it. GOD says that the wages of our sin is death. From the beginning of creation, GOD created mankind as a living soul that would live forever. When mankind chose to sin, death came into our lives. GOD made a way to redeem (save) mankind by sending HIS only begotten SON to Earth as a baby, to live a sinless life and then allow sinful man to nail HIM to a cross to die in our place and pay for our sins. 

1st.Corinthians 15:1-2s,3-4 gives us the Gospel of what JESUS did for us on the cross, "Moreover, brethren, I declare unto you the Gospel which I preached unto you, which also ye have received, and where in ye stand; by which also ye are saved, . . For I delivered unto you first of all that which I also received, how that CHRIST died for our sins according to the Scriptures; and that HE was buried, and that HE rose again the third day according to the Scriptures:"

GOD sent JESUS to save you and me from our sin debt that we owed GOD but could not pay ourselves. WHY ? LOVE ! "For GOD so loved the world, that HE gave HIS only begotten SON, that whosever believes in HIM should not perish, but have everlasting life. For GOD sent not HIS SON into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through HIM might be saved. He that believes on HIM is not condemned: but he that believes not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten SON of GOD." (John 3:16-18)

How can GOD forgive us - because of what JESUS did on the cross for us. HIS love for mankind knows no bounds. HE gave the very best to save us. So you see, there should be nothing that stands between you and having a home in Heaven !  So what is STOPPING you from a home in Heaven, from being forgiven and receiving a whole new life here on Earth ? The only thing STOPPING you is you !  Come to JESUS, repent (turning to GOD from your sin) of your sin and ask JESUS to save you. You can pray this simple prayer of repentance and faith or one like it with all your heart:

LORD, I know that I am a sinner, and I believe YOU died and rose again for me. I am trusting YOU to forgive me. Come into my heart and save me. Help me to live for YOU always. In JESUS' name I pray, AMEN.

JESUS said in Romans 10:9-10,13  "That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the LORD JESUS, and shalt believe in thine heart that GOD hath raised HIM from the dead, thou shalt be saved. For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation. . .For whosoever shall call upon the name of the LORD shall be saved."

So now there should be nothing STOPPING you ! JESUS made the only way to Heaven. One of JESUS' many promises to HIS disciples and to us was penned in John 14:1-6 "Let not your heart be troubled; ye believe in GOD, believe also in ME. In MY FATHER's house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto MYSELF; that where I AM, there ye may be also. And whither I go ye know, and the way ye know. Thomas, saith unto HIM, LORD we know not whither THOU goest; and how can we know the way ? JESUS saith unto him, I AM the WAY, the TRUTH, and the LIFE: no man cometh unto the FATHER, but by ME."

You see, JESUS made a home for you in Heaven and HE made the only way to get there. So, what is STOPPING you, NOTHING  !

Your servant in CHRIST,

Julie

" Something Happened ! "

 

John 20:19-31 "Then the same day at evening, being the first day of the week, when the doors were shut where the disciples were assembled for fear of the Jews, came JESUS and stood in the midst, and saith unto them, Peace be unto you. And when HE had so said, HE showed unto them HIS hands and HIS side. Then were the disciples glad, when they saw the LORD. Then said JESUS to them again, Peace be unto you: as MY FATHER hath sent ME, even so send I you. And when HE had said this, HE breathed on them, and saith unto them, Receive ye the HOLY GHOST: Whose soever sins ye remit, they are remitted unto them; and whose soever sins ye retain, they are retained. But Thomas, one of the twelve, called Didymus, was not with them when JESUS came. The other disciples therefore said unto him, We have seen the LORD, but he said unto them, except I shall see in HIS hands the print of the nails, and put my finger into the print of the nails, and thrust my hand into HIS side, I will not believe.

And after eight days again HIS disciples were within, and Thomas with them: then came JESUS, the doors being shut, and stood in the midst, and said, Peace be unto you. Then saith HE to Thomas, Reach hither thy finger, and behold MY hands; and reach hither thy hand, and thrust it into MY side: and be not faithless, but believing. And Thomas answered and said unto HIM, My LORD and my GOD. JESUS saith unto him, Thomas, because thou hast seen ME, thou hast believed: blessed are they that have not seen, and yet have believed. And many other signs truly did JESUS in the presence of HIS disciples, which are not written in this Book: but these are written, that ye might believe that JESUS is the CHRIST, the SON of GOD; and that believing ye might have life through HIS name."

     Peter denied the LORD three times. He did not want to admit that he had been with JESUS and that he was one of HIS disciples. However, about fifty-three days later, this same Peter boldly confessed CHRIST to thousands of Jewish people (Acts 2). The man who cowered before a damsel (John 18:17) became a courageous preacher of the Gospel. Something happened ! The half-brothers of JESUS did not believe in HIM (John 7:5); they grew up with HIM but did not embrace HIM as Israel's promised MESSIAH and KING. Yet, James later became the leader of the Jerusalem church, and both he and Jude wrote New Testament books, proclaiming that they were slaves of JESUS CHRIST WHOM they served and loved (James 1:1; Jude 1:1 pictured above). Something happened (1st.Corinthians 15:7) ! JESUS' disciples ran away after HE was arrested (Mark 14:27, 50). Later these same men became bold preachers and missionaries, willing to be martyred for the Gospel they preached. Something happened to these men ! For centuries the Jewish people had set apart the Sabbath (Saturday) for worship. But, Christian believers, many of whom were Jews, began to gather on the first day of the week (Sunday). What brought about such a momentous change ? Something happened ! Thomas was absent when JESUS appeared to HIS ten disciples, and they informed him, "We have seen the LORD !" But Thomas said, "Except I shall see in HIS hands the print of the nails, and put my finger into the print of the nails, and thrust my hand into HIS side, I will not believe" (v.25). A week later, "Doubting Thomas" instantly was transformed into "Convinced Thomas" ! Something happened ! Has the resurrection of JESUS CHRIST, on your behalf, transformed your life ? GWZ

Your servant in CHRIST,

Julie

Copyright, FEATURE: A Daily Bible Study Guide.

Used  with  permission.    www.featoday.org