"DOING the WILL of GOD from the HEART"

 

Ephesians 6:5-6 "Servants, be obedient to them that are your masters according to the flesh, with fear and trembling, in singleness of your heart, as unto CHRIST; not with eyeservice, as menpleasers; but as the servants of CHRIST doing the will of GOD from the heart;"

     A marvelous thought is tucked away in the book of Ephesians wherein Paul is instructing servants in relation to their masters (think of employee/employer relationship today). The Apostle encourages them to fulfill their responsibilities to their master/employer "with fear and trembling, in singleness of your heart, as unto CHRIST; not with eyeservice, as menpleasers; but as the servants of CHRIST, doing the will of GOD from the heart." Pay particular attention to these words: "as unto CHRIST; not . . . as menpleasers; but as the servants of CHRIST." Notice how this obedience in these human relationships is closely related to our submission to the LORD JESUS CHRIST.

     The last three chapters of Ephesians contain instruction concerning the daily and practical application of the doctrinal truths revealed in the opening three chapters. Paul's subject matter is the walk and warfare of the child of GOD. In each relationship of life that he mentions -- whether husband and wife, parent and child, master and servant, spiritual warrior and invisible enemy -- the believer's walk and warfare are connected directly to his or her submission and obedience to CHRIST. Notice the indicators of that truth: "Wives, submit . . . as unto the LORD"; "Husbands, love your wives, even as CHRIST also loved the church"; "Children, obey your parents in the LORD"; "Father's . . . bring them up in the nurture and admonition of the LORD"; "My brethren, be strong in the LORD, and . . . put on the whole armor of GOD." The ability to submit, love, obey, nurture, and admonish to be strong and put on the battle armor is only possible as we are in submission to JESUS CHRIST and "doing the will of GOD from the heart" (v.6). JED

Your servant in CHRIST,

Julie

Copyright, FEATURE: A Daily Bible Study Guide.

Used  with  permission.  www.featoday.org   #armor  #heart  #battle   #submission

https://fivestarchristianministries.com/salvation

"Where Are You Going to Spend Eternity ?"

 

     Dear Soul, if you were to die right now, do you know whether you would go to Heaven or to a Devil's Hell, for all eternity ? The bible, the WORD Of GOD, says that you can know.

     My Friend, I am asking you the most important question of your entire life. Your answer will determine where you will spend eternity ! The question is: Are you saved ? The question is not if you are a member of a church, but are you saved ? It is not if you are leading a good life, but are you saved ? It is not if you are working on it or hoping to be, but are you saved ? The Bibe says: "...we must be saved." (Acts 4:12)

     To be saved, you first must admit that you are a sinner. "As it is written, There is none righteous, no, not one:...there is none that doeth good, no, not one." (Romans 3:10,12) "For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of GOD;" (Romans 3:23). Friend, your sins have made you fall short of GOD's glory, and you are unable to meet HIS requirements for getting into Heaven.

     Secondly, you need to realize that SOMEONE loved you and died for you. JESUS CHRIST died on a cross to pay for your sins and to give you an opportunity to go to Heaven. "But GOD commendeth HIS love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, CHRIST died for us." (Romans 5:8). When JESUS died on the cross, HIS blood paid the penalty for your sins. "In WHOM we have redemption through HIS blood, even the forgiveness of sins:" (Colossians 1:14).

     Realize that you cannot do anything to earn or help earn your way to Heaven. JESUS already completely paid for it when HE died on the cross. Just before HE died HE said, "...It is finished:" (John 19:30). HE now wants to give you a home in Heaven. "...the gift of GOD is eternal life through JESUS CHRIST our LORD." (Romans 6:23)

     You must realize that when JESUS saves you, it is forever. JESUS did not stay dead. HE arose from the grave and is now alive in Heaven interceding for those who have trusted in HIM. "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:"  (1st.Corinthians 15:1-2a,3-4) "Wherefore HE is able also to save them to the uttermost that come unto GOD by HIM, seeing HE ever liveth to make intercession for them." (Hebrews 7:25)

     By repentance and faith, receive JESUS CHRIST. JESUS died to give the gift of eternal life to everyone. However, like all other gifts, this one is of no value unless you receive it for yourself. "But as many as received HIM, to them gave HE power to become the sons of GOD, even to them that believe on HIS name:" (John 1:12). Faith is a complete trust and repentance is a turning to GOD from your sin.

     The Bible says you are "saved through faith" without needing to add anything else. "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) The only faith that saves is complete faith in JESUS CHRIST. "...Believe on the LORD JESUS CHRIST, and thou shalt be saved,..." (Acts 16:31). Anything that you try to add to faith, such as water baptism, church membership, good works, is a "works based" salvation; which is no salvation at all. "Therefore we conclude that a man is justified by faith without the deeds of the Law." (Romans 3:28)

     Dear Soul, if you're willing to stop trying to get to Heaven your way, and completely trust JESUS CHRIST, then you can be saved right now ! It's now up to you ! Just bow your head and pray a simple prayer of faith similar to this one:

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 Bible says, "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 whosoever shall call upon the name of the LORD shall be saved." (Romans 10:9,13) If you have chosen not to admit your guilt and to trust JESUS CHRIST as your personal LORD and SAVIOR, please read what the Bible says, "...he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten SON Of GOD." (John 3:18b) and "And whosoever was not found written in the Book of Life was cast into the Lake of Fire." (Revelation 20:15). Please don't reject the Gospel ! Trust CHRIST today !

Your servant in CHRIST,

Julie

#JESUS   #eternity   #salvation   #Gospel   #Heaven   #Hell

https://fivestarchristianministries.com/salvation

" Heaven or Hell, Which for You ? "

 

ARE YOU GOING TO HEAVEN

OR HELL ?

Many seemingly good people are going to Hell, because "...all have sinned..." Romans 3:23

"For there is not a just man upon Earth, that doeth good, and sinneth not." Ecclesiastes 7:20

WHAT IS THE PRICE OF SIN ?

"...the soul that sinneth, it shall die." Ezekiel 18:4

"For the wages of sin is death..." Romans 6:23

WHAT IF YOU ARE NOT SAVED

WHEN YOU DIE ?

"And as it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment." Hebrews 9:27

"And whosoever was not found written in the Book of Life was cast into the Lake of Fire." Revelation 20:15

WOULD GOD SAVE A SINNER LIKE YOU ?

"But GOD commendeth HIS love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, CHRIST died for us." Romans 5:8

"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

JESUS said, "...him that cometh to ME I will in no wise cast out." John 6:37

DO YOU WANT TO KNOW HOW 

TO BE SAVED ?

FIRST, you must realize there is nothing you can do to make yourself worthy of Heaven. "Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to HIS mercy HE saved us..." Titus 3:5a

THEN YOU MUST . . . 

Repent: "...GOD...now commandeth all men every where to repent:" Acts 17:30 Repentance is a turning to GOD from your sin.

Believe: "...that CHRIST died for our sins according to the Scriptures; and that HE was buried, and that HE rose again the third day..." 1st.Corinthians 15:3,4

Call: upon the LORD to save you, "For whosoever shall call upon the name of the LORD shall be saved." Romans 10:13

Receive: "But as many as received HIM (JESUS), to them gave HE power to become the sons of GOD, even to them that believe on HIS name:" John 1:12

IS ALL THIS FREE ?

"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

JESUS CHRIST AWAITS YOUR 

CHOICE.

The way to be saved is so simple! Yet many refuse to be saved. They will not accept JESUS CHRIST as their personal LORD and SAVIOR, and HIM alone, for salvation from sin and its penalty. They do not believe that the LORD JESUS is powerful enough to save them all by HIMSELF. DO You ?

"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

Will you admit you are a sinner ? Do you want to be forgiven ? Right now, where you are, pray to GOD, asking JESUS CHRIST to save you:

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.

"Wherefore HE is able also to save them to the uttermost that come unto GOD by HIM seeing HE ever liveth and make intercession for them." Hebrews 7:25

"For whosoever shall call upon the name of the LORD shall be saved." Romans 10:13

Don't put it off till tomorrow. You are not promised more than the time that you have at this moment. 

Your servant in CHRIST,

Julie       #JESUS   #Heaven   #Hell   #Sin

"A Soldier's Endurance"

 

2nd.Timothy 2:1-4 "Thou therefore, my son, be strong in the grace that is in CHRIST JESUS. And the things that thou hast heard of me among many witnesses, the same commit thou to faithful men, who shall be able to teach others also. Thou therefore endure hardness, as a good soldier of JESUS CHRIST. No man that warreth entangleth himself with the affairs of this life; that he may please HIM WHO hath chosen him to be a soldier."

     While all believers face various trials in life, many who live in the West seldom encounter the persecution for the faith that their brothers and sisters in CHRIST in other areas of the world must frequently endure. Being a Christian carries a high price where no freedom to do so exists, and it requires determination and courage to be faithful to JESUS CHRIST. While we in the United States of America still possess many of our religious and political freedoms given at the founding of this nation, that may soon change as we witness our society's rapid shift into a humanistic culture that rejects the GOD of the Bible. In comparison to many brethren around the world who live in countries where even being a believer comes at a tremendous cost, we still have an abundance of liberty; however, we are clearly losing those rights as time goes by.

     When we observe the persecuted believer's bravery and commitment to CHRIST in the face of mortal danger for simply being a Christian, we are reminded of what it means to be "a good soldier of JESUS CHRIST" (v.3 pictured at top of post). These oppressed saints regard allegiance to GOD as their life's priority. HE has enlisted them in HIS service, and they are ready and willing to follow HIS orders. JESUS' clear call to make disciples (Matthew 28:19-20 pictured above) has come with a high price tag throughout church history, and obedience to this command continues to be costly in many nations today. Both in the past and in the present, we find those who were and are examples of ones who faithfully endure as good soldiers. They demonstrate what this entails by remaining steadfast at their post, following CHRIST's command to pass on the faith to the next generation (v.2)

     Paul uses an important illustration to communicate the necessity of remaining faithful in the Christian life. In our text, Timothy is to "endure hardness, as a good soldier of JESUS CHRIST" (v.3 pictured at top of post). The English words "endure hardness" are translated from a Greek compound word that conveys serving while suffering distress. Often, life is not easy for believers in CHRIST. Living a godly Christian life is not for the weak or faint of heart, we face a powerful foe who seeks to destroy us by sending trials resulting from our faith in CHRIST. Yet, we must continue to fight the good fight (2nd.TImothy 4:7 pictured above).

     To "endure" (v.3 pictured at top of post) is more than simply "to put up with" or "tolerate affliction." The implication is that, just as a soldier trains for his duties, believers likewise should be suited for the conflicts of life in "this present evil world" (Galatians 1:4 pictured above). We must be ready for the battles that come our way. Paul reminds Timothy, and us today, that when a person has believed on CHRIST for salvation, he will encounter a relentless enemy (Satan) who has resources at his disposal -- the world and the flesh -- that he unceasingly utilizes in his effort to thwart progress and spiritual growth in the Christian's life.

     A soldier's life, especially in the midst of combat, is not easy. He often is deprived of the basic comforts of life. For those who choose to make the world their priority, life can be "easy street" as it offers them much in the way of pleasure and indulgence. For the LORD's soldiers, however, these temporary attractions are but "for a season," and the "reproach of CHRIST [is] greater riches" (Hebrews 11:25-26). May we "be strong in the LORD" and fit ourselves for the battle with the armor of GOD (Ephesians 6:11-17 pictured above).

     Notice from our text the Christian soldier's positive value to his COMMANDER. The apostle Paul exhorts Timothy to "endure hardness as a good soldier of JESUS CHRIST" (v.3 pictured at top of post). How, then, does one qualify to be described as a "good soldier" ? This requires the believer to be faithful, loyal, and obedient to the COMMANDER, and he does so in order to "please HIM WHO hath chosen him to be a soldier" (v.4). The child of GOD has been selected for service by the Great COMMANDER, "JESUS CHRIST" (v.3) !

     A good soldier must put off "the affairs of this life" (v.4). Interestingly, the Greek word that Paul uses for "affairs" also gives us the English word "pragmatic." The idea seems to be that ordinary, run-of-the-mill things that "civilians" take for granted, such as the comforts of home or the entertainments of society, are unnecessary or unavailable for those who are engaged in battle. Thus, the faithful Christian soldier is willing to forgo this world's pleasures so that he "may please HIM," his COMMANDER JESUS CHRIST.

The Soldiers that the Apostle Paul was chained to.

     As far as we know, Paul never served in the army, and yet he understood much concerning what it takes to be a good soldier. How ? As a prisoner of Rome, he was continually chained to various soldiers, and no doubt he would have observed their routines as well as engaged them in conversation. He readily could see the importance of the soldiers' discipline, endurance, and faithful duty. In the Christian life, how is your service in the LORD's army ? Do you find yourself entangled with matters pertaining to the comforts of this present world ? Or, have you determined that, in even the basic issues of life, you will do what is pleasing to your COMMANDER and LORD ? GDF

Your servant in CHRIST,

Julie

Copyright, FEATURE: A Daily Bible Study Guide.

Used  with  permission.    www.featoday.org   #soldier #Christian #JESUS

https://fivestarchristianministries.com/salvation

" THE SHOCKING TRUTH ! "

 

The shocking truth is that JESUS CHRIST will not save you. That's right ! JESUS CHRIST will not save you, unless you realize the following facts:

1.) You are separated from GOD. "But your iniquities have separated between you and your GOD, and your sins have hid HIS face from you, that HE will not hear;" (Isaiah 59:2). "For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of GOD;" (Romans 3:23).

2.) You are condemned by GOD at this moment. ". . .he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten SON of GOD." (John 3:18b). "Now we know that what things soever the Law saith, it saith to them who are under the Law (you): that every mouth may be stopped, and all the world may become guilty before GOD." (Romans 3:19).

3.) Your punishment is certain. "And as it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment:" (Hebrews 9:27). "The wicked shall be turned into Hell. . ." (Psalm 9:17a). ". . .be sure your sin will find you out." (Numbers 32:23). "For the wages of sin is death;" (Romans 6:23a).

HOWEVER. . .

1.) JESUS CHRIST died for you. "But GOD commendeth (sent forth) HIS love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, CHRIST died for us." (Romans 5:8). "For GOD so loved the world, that HE gave HIS only begotten SON, that whosoever believeth in HIM should not perish, but have everlasting life." (John 3:16).

2.) JESUS CHRIST is the only way. "JESUS saith unto him, I AM the WAY, the TRUTH, and the LIFE: no man cometh unto the FATHER, but by me." (John 14:6) "Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven give among men, whereby we must be saved." (Acts 4:12).

3.) JESUS CHRIST saves without help. "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) "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)

Now that you have the truth, the decision is yours ! Will you repent ? Repentance means that you've decided to turn to GOD from your sin. "The LORD is...not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance." (2nd.Peter 3:9) "Repent ye therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out," (Acts 3:19a)

Will you trust JESUS CHRIST to save you ? Romans 10:9-10,13 states, "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." JESUS CHRIST did everything that was needed to be done to pay for your sins and take you to Heaven. That is the reason JESUS CHRIST came to Earth, and that is why HE is called the SAVIOR. You cannot help save yourself by water baptism, church membership or attendance, sacraments, giving money, doing good works, or trying to lead a good life. In order to be saved (born again), you must completely trust JESUS CHRIST as your personal LORD and SAVIOR, and HIS power to save you.

Can you afford to wait ? The Bible says, "BEHOLD, NOW is the accepted time; BEHOLD, NOW is the day of salvation. . ." (2nd.Corinthians 6:2b). "Boast not thyself of tomorrow; for thou knowest not what a day may bring forth." (Proverbs 27:1) Dear Soul, the most important decision that you will make in this life will be to trust or to reject JESUS CHRIST as your personal LORD and SAVIOR. Don't take a chance ! Call on GOD now ! You might not be alive tomorrow !

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 heareth MY WORD, and believeth on HIM that sent ME, hath everlasting life, and shall not come into condemnation; but is passed from death unto life." (John 5:24) Trust JESUS today, tomorrow may be too late !

Your servant in CHRIST,

Julie  

https://fivestarchristianministries.com/salvation

" Gain or Loss ? "

 

Philippians 3:4-9 " Though I might also have confidence in the flesh. If any other man thinketh that he hath whereof he might trust in the flesh, I more: circumcised the eighth day, of the stock of Israel, of the tribe of Benjamin, an Hebrew of the Hebrews; as touching the Law, a Pharisee; concerning zeal, persecuting the church; touching the righteousness which is in the Law, blameless. But what things were gain to me, those I counted loss for CHRIST. Yea doubtless, and I count all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of CHRIST JESUS my LORD: for WHOM I have suffered the loss of all things, and do count them but dung, that I may win CHRIST, and be found in HIM, not having mine own righteousness, which is of the Law, but that which is through the faith of CHRIST, the righteousness which is of GOD by faith:"

     What do you hope to gain in this life ? What truly captivates your full attention ? Some people might quickly respond with answers like riches, power, or prestige. But what, exactly, does it mean to gain ? The word itself is defined as "to get (something desired), especially as a result of one's own effort." Far too often that desire is fueled by greed and leads to mischief and harm to others (Proverbs 1:19 pictured above) and even trouble to one's own house (Proverbs 15:27 pictured below). JESUS asked the probing question: "For what is a man profited, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul ?" (Matthew 16:26 pictured at top of post). To lose one's soul, even for a King's ransom, is not a profitable exchange; and yet, the ungodly continue to seek after temporary gain and vain fortune. Again, the LORD JESUS reminds us, "How hard is it for them that trust in riches to enter into the kingdom of GOD !" (Mark 10:24)

     The Apostle Paul spoke of what he trusted in before his salvation: his circumcision, his Jewish heritage, his life as a Pharisee, his zeal in persecuting the church, his self-righteousness pertaining to his outward obedience to the Law (vv.4-6). Those things were gain to him in his unsaved state, but after putting his trust in CHRIST alone, he said, "But what things were gain to me, those I counted loss for CHRIST. Yea doubtless, and I count all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of CHRIST JESUS . . . and [to] be found in HIM, not having mine own righteousness, which is of the Law, but that which is through the faith of [in] CHRIST, the righteousness which is of GOD by faith" (vv.7-9). That is a most worthy exchange. Has this been your gain as it was Paul's ? JED

Your servant in CHRIST,

Julie

Copyright, FEATURE: A Daily Bible Study Guide.

Used  with  permission.    www.featoday.org     #greed

https://fivestarchristianministries.com/salvation

" Putting Feet to Faith "

Hebrews 13:1-9 "Let brotherly love continue. Be not forgetful to entertain strangers: for thereby some have entertained angels unawares. Remember them that are in bonds, as bound with them; and them which suffer adversity, as being yourselves also in the body. Marriage is honorable in all, and the bed undefiled: but whoremongers and adulterers GOD will judge. 

Let you conversation (conduct) be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for HE hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee. So that we may boldly say, The LORD is my helper, and I will not fear what man shall do unto me. Remember them which have the rule over you, who have spoken unto you the WORD of GOD: whose faith follow, considering the end of their conversation. JESUS CHRIST the same yesterday, and today, and forever. Be not carried about with divers and strange doctrines. For it is a good thing that the heart be established with grace; not with meats, which have not profited them that have been occupied therein.

     The entire letter to the Hebrew believers is a heartfelt warning to these first century saints to press forward in their walk with GOD and refrain from going back to a legalistic approach to their fellowship with the LORD. The Judaizers were taking advantage of the hardships and difficulties faced by GOD's people and urging them to return to a ritualistic approach to dead religion rather than continuing to trust GOD and, by faith, walk according to what HE had revealed to them through HIS WORD.

     The first seventeen verses of this concluding chapter of Hebrews contain practical instruction to the church regarding the need to "put feet to faith" and live out a GOD-honoring moral Christian life. Chapter eleven presents examples of those who walked by faith, and chapter twelve is the author's exhortation wherein he encourages his readers to do the same. Chapter thirteen provides specific application explaining what this looks like as it is lived out in the life of a believer who is walking by faith.

     The pertinent guidance in Hebrews 13 stems from the strong, sound, doctrinal considerations that preceded this chapter. Rather than "draw back," thinking they could merit GOD's favor by returning to a legalistic system, the believers needed to move forward in their resolve to enter the life of rest in JESUS CHRIST through continually believing and trusting the LORD (Hebrews 12:1-3 all pictured above). Thus, in this final chapter, the author of Hebrews provides practical moral and ethical principles that should mark every believer's life. We will consider these GOD-ordained instructions, yet we must keep in mind -- each directive presupposes a walk of faith and trust in GOD.

Love and Sympathy toward Brethren in Need . . .

     Because the Hebrew believers were facing opposition and persecution both from Gentile political zealots as well as unbelieving Jews, they needed to express "brotherly love" (philadelphia) toward one another (Hebrews 13:1 pictured above). This kind of love entails a display of kindness, sympathy, and helpfulness -- something they would not get from their enemies. In today's culture, this is just as important for us since the world is becoming increasingly uncivil and antagonistic to the truth and to those who embrace it. We need to encourage, support, and lift up other saints who are enduring the fight.

     In verse two, the Greek word for "entertain strangers" is connected to the English word "hospitality." In other words, the saints were to be hospitable to others and seek to help them even at the expense of their own comfort. Public accommodations at the time were often unsafe or of moral disrepute, so friendliness to strangers extended beyond the local church fellowship and included hosting believers who were traveling from town to town. Abraham (Genesis 18:1-3), Lot (Genesis 19:1-3), Gideon (Judges 6:11-24), and Manoah (Judges 13:6-20) were remembered for this kind of hospitality that is pleasing to GOD. Later, the Apostle John commended Gaius for his same virtue (3rd.John 5-6 pictured above).

     Finally, the Hebrew believers were to demonstrate care for their brethren who had been imprisoned or who were being persecuted for their faith (Hebrews 13:3 pictured above). They previously had done this well (Hebrews 10:32-34), but now they needed a reminder to continue showing empathy and concern toward those who were suffering. Today, are we characterized by this same care, support, and encouragement of our brothers and sister in CHRIST ?

CHRIST-Honoring Personal Conduct . . .

     Today's Scripture reading also admonishes the believer to maintain sexual purity (Hebrews 13:4). The GOD-give expression of sexuality is to be confined to marriage between a man and a woman. The LORD will deal with fornicators (unmarried) and adulterers (married) who refuse to repent of and forsake their licentious behavior (v.4b cf. 1st.Corinthians 6:9-11 pictured above). Under the Law, the Israelites were to execute judgment, but in this age, our text informs us that GOD will be the JUDGE of all who partake in sexual sin.

     Verses five and six provide a warning concerning covetousness and an exhortation to contentment. Covetousness is a heart attitude that can harm a believer's walk before his LORD and before others. Truly, the "love of money is the root of all evil" (1st.Timothy 6:6-10), and "he that is greedy of gain troubleth his own house" (Proverbs 15:27). The author of Hebrews then elaborates on the doctrine of contentment -- the converse of covetousness. Lack of contentment is a blight of twenty-first century Christianity, for so many are looking for something better, something bigger, something more enjoyable than the simplicity that is in CHRIST JESUS (v.5b). If we were truly focused upon GOD and HIS perfect provision and trusting in what HE has declared in HIS WORD, then we could say with the psalmist, "The LORD is my HELPER, and I will not fear. . ." (v.6 cf. Psalm 118:6 pictured above). This must be our outlook at all times, regardless of our circumstances.

     Ultimately, these three verses address contentment in the Christian life: in our relationships (v.4), with our possessions (v.5 pictured above), and through our GOD (v.6). The Hebrew saints needed to make the link between faith living and contentment; so do we !

Remember Your Instructors in the Faith . . .

     The Hebrew believers were to honor (respect) their current teachers and watchmen (Hebrews 13:17) as well as those who had so guided them in the past and were now with the LORD (v.7), many of whom had been martyred. These early Christians were to consider how their spiritual mentors had been faithful unto death, and they were to follow their courageous example. Notice that those who had gone before had faithfully communicated "the WORD of GOD" -- the root and foundation of all righteous living and conduct; the Hebrews were to respect and emulate these men (v.7).

     Verse eight transitions from the former teachers to the true and unchanging doctrine that they taught. The very JESUS WHO was the Hebrews' SAVIOR and SUSTAINER during their early Christian experience was and still is the same -- past, present, and future (v.8). JESUS is immutable, and HIS WORD and promises stand firm ! But sadly, false teacher had already entered the church and were leading some back to a compromise with Judaism (v.9). The Hebrew saints were confused and misled, thinking that eating or not eating certain foods earned them favor with GOD (Colossians 2:16 pictured above; 1st.Timothy 4:1-5); thus, the author exhorted them to be "established with grace" (v.9). It is not by legalism that Christians grow strong spiritually. Just as in salvation, grace and faith are essential to the believer's maturity and growth. It is through GOD's grace, not works or rituals, that we walk by and faith and "serve GOD acceptably" (Hebrews 12:28 pictured above). These saints needed greater stability in their doctrinal knowledge and subsequent conduct. Sound teaching and apostolic admonition were key, and we today need to hear and heed them as well. MDC

Your servant in CHRIST,

Julie

Copyright, FEATURE: A Daily Bible Study Guide.

Used  with  permission.    www.featoday.org

https://fivestarchristianministries.com/salvation

 

"THE GIFT OF GOD . . . Living Water"

 

The LORD JESUS used water to teach the woman at the well about eternal life. HE said, "Whosoever drinketh of this water shall thirst again: But whosoever drinketh of the water that I shall give him shall never thirst." (John 4:13-14)

HIS words stirred up a desire in her heart to want "living water." (John 4:10) She said to JESUS, "Sir give me this water". (John 4:15) Salvation and eternal life are the Living Water JESUS is speaking of.

First, we must desire Living Water

JESUS said, "Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness for they shall be filled." (Matthew 5:6) Do you thirst for this life JESUS offers ?

Second, we must see our need for CHRIST

The Bible says, "For all have sinned and come short of the glory of GOD." (Romans 3:23) HE paid our sin debt in full. When JESUS rose from the grave it proved GOD accepted HIS payment for our sin. Salvation is free but it is not cheap. It cost JESUS HIS life.

THIRD, we must ask for Living Water

The Bible says, "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, 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 LORD and SAVIOR.

Now that you're a Christian:

Share your new-found faith with your family and friends (Acts 16:31-33)

Identify with CHRIST through believer's baptism and become part of a local, Bible-believing church (Acts 2:41-47)

Your servant in CHRIST,

Julie

GULF COAST BAPTIST CHURCH

Pastor Tom Sexton

312 SE 24th. Avenue

Cape Coral, FL  33990

GulfCoastBaptist@aol.com

www.gulfcoastbaptistchurch.com

https://fivestarchristianministries.com/salvation