Day 350 of My 3rd Bible Study Journey - 16 December 2023 reflections - 21st Day of Advent
Day 350, 16 December 2023 - 21st Day of Advent
1) Hebrews 7,8,9,10
Hebrews 7
The Priestly Order of Melchizedek
1 (Ge 14:18-20; Mk 5:7) For this Melchizedek, king of Salem, priest
of the Most High God, met Abraham returning from the slaughter of the kings
and blessed him.
2 To him Abraham also gave a tenth part of everything. In the first place,
his name is translated "king of righteousness," and then also he is king
of Salem, which means "king of peace."
3 (Heb 7:6) Without father, without mother, without descent,
having neither beginning of days nor end of life,
but made like the Son of God, he continually remains a priest.
4 (Ac 2:29; Ge 14:20) Now consider how great this man was, to whom even
the patriarch Abraham gave a tenth of the spoils.
5 Surely the sons of Levi, who receive the office of the priesthood, have
a command to take tithes of the people according to the law, that is,
from their brothers, though they also come from the seed of Abraham.
6 (Ro 4:13; Ge 14:19-20) But this man, whose descent is not numbered among
them, received tithes from Abraham and blessed him who had the promises.
7 Without question, the inferior is blessed by the superior.
8 (Heb 5:6; 6:20) In the one case mortal men receive tithes, but in the other
he of whom it is witnessed that he is alive receives them.
9 One might say that Levi also, who receives tithes,
paid tithes through Abraham,
10 for he was still in the loins of his father when Melchizedek met Abraham.
11 (Heb 8:7; Gal 2:21) If perfection were attained through the Levitical
priesthood (for through it the people received the law), what further need
was there that another priest should rise in the order of Melchizedek,
rather than established in the order of Aaron?
12 For a change in the priesthood necessitates a change in the law.
13 For the One concerning whom these things are spoken pertains to another
tribe, from which no man served at the altar.
14 (Isa 11:1; Mic 5:2; Lk 3:33) For it is evident that our Lord descended
from Judah, a tribe concerning which Moses said nothing about priests.
15 This is far more evident when another priest arises in the likeness
of Melchizedek,
16 who becomes a priest not by a law pertaining to ancestry,
but by the power of an endless life.
17 (Ps 110:4; Heb 5:6) For He testifies:
"You are a priest forever,
in the order of Melchizedek."(Ps 110:4.)
18 (Ro 8:3; Gal 4:9) For there is then an annulling of the previous
commandment due to its weakness and uselessness.
19 (Ac 13:39; Heb 4:16) For the law made nothing perfect, but now
a better hope is introduced, by which we draw near to God.
20 And He was not made a priest without an oath.
21 (Ps 110:4; Heb 7:17) (Other priests were made without an oath,
but this One with an oath by the One who said to Him:
"The Lord has sworn
and will not relent,
'You are a priest forever, in the order of Melchizedek.' " (Nu 23:19;
1Sa 15:29; Ps 110:4.))
22 Through this oath Jesus became the guarantor of a better covenant.
23 And the former priests were numerous because they were hindered
from serving because of death.
24 (Heb 7:28; Jn 12:34) But He, because He lives forever,
has an everlasting priesthood.
25 (Ro 8:34; Heb 7:19; Jn 14:6) Therefore He is able to save to the uttermost
those who come to God through Him, because He at all times lives to make
intercession for them.
26 (Heb 8:1; 2Co 5:21) For such a High Priest was fitting for us,
for He is holy, innocent, undefiled, separate from sinners,
and is higher than the heavens.
27 (Heb 9:28; 5:3; 9:12) Unlike those high priests, He does not need to
offer daily sacrifices-first for His own sins and then for the people's,
for He did this once for all when He offered up Himself.
28 (Heb 2:10; 1:2) For the law appoints men who are weak as high priests,
but the word of the oath, which came after the law, appoints a Son who is
made perfect forever.
[1] For this Melchisedec, king of Salem, priest of the most high God, who
met Abraham returning from the slaughter of the kings, and blessed him;
[2] To whom also Abraham gave a tenth part of all; first being by
interpretation King of righteousness, and after that also King of Salem,
which is, King of peace;
[3] Without father, without mother, without descent, having neither
beginning of days, nor end of life; but made like unto the Son of God;
abideth a priest continually.
[4] Now consider how great this man was, unto whom even the patriarch
Abraham gave the tenth of the spoils.
[5] And verily they that are of the sons of Levi, who receive the office of
the priesthood, have a commandment to take tithes of the people according to
the law, that is, of their brethren, though they come out of the loins of
Abraham:
[6] But he whose descent is not counted from them received tithes of
Abraham, and blessed him that had the promises.
[7] And without all contradiction the less is blessed of the better.
[8] And here men that die receive tithes; but there he receiveth them, of
whom it is witnessed that he liveth.
[9] And as I may so say, Levi also, who receiveth tithes, payed tithes in
Abraham.
[10] For he was yet in the loins of his father, when Melchisedec met him.
[11] If therefore perfection were by the Levitical priesthood, (for under it
the people received the law,) what further need was there that another
priest should rise after the order of Melchisedec, and not be called after
the order of Aaron?
[12] For the priesthood being changed, there is made of necessity a change
also of the law.
[13] For he of whom these things are spoken pertaineth to another tribe, of
which no man gave attendance at the altar.
[14] For it is evident that our Lord sprang out of Juda; of which tribe
Moses spake nothing concerning priesthood.
[15] And it is yet far more evident: for that after the similitude of
Melchisedec there ariseth another priest,
[16] Who is made, not after the law of a carnal commandment, but after the
power of an endless life.
[17] For he testifieth, Thou art a priest for ever after the order of
Melchisedec.
[18] For there is verily a disannulling of the commandment going before for
the weakness and unprofitableness thereof.
[19] For the law made nothing perfect, but the bringing in of a better hope
did; by the which we draw nigh unto God.
[20] And inasmuch as not without an oath he was made priest:
[21] (For those priests were made without an oath; but this with an oath by
him that said unto him, The Lord sware and will not repent, Thou art a
priest for ever after the order of Melchisedec:)
[22] By so much was Jesus made a surety of a better testament.
[23] And they truly were many priests, because they were not suffered to
continue by reason of death:
[24] But this man, because he continueth ever, hath an unchangeable
priesthood.
[25] 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.
[26] For such an high priest became us, who is holy, harmless, undefiled,
separate from sinners, and made higher than the heavens;
[27] Who needeth not daily, as those high priests, to offer up sacrifice,
first for his own sins, and then for the people's: for this he did once,
when he offered up himself.
[28] For the law maketh men high priests which have infirmity; but the word
of the oath, which was since the law, maketh the Son, who is consecrated for
evermore.
Hebrews 8
Jesus Our High Priest
1 (Heb 1:3; Col 3:1) Now this is the main point of the things that we are
saying: We have such a High Priest, who is seated at the right hand
of the throne of the Majesty in the heavens,
2 a minister in the sanctuary and the true tabernacle, which the Lord,
not man, set up.
3 (Heb 5:1; Eph 5:2) For every high priest is appointed to offer gifts
and sacrifices. Therefore it is necessary that this priest also have
something to offer.
4 For if He were on earth, He would not be a priest,
since there are priests that offer gifts according to the law.
5 (Ex 25:40; Col 2:17) They serve in a sanctuary that is an example
and shadow of the heavenly one, as Moses was instructed
by God when he was about to make the tabernacle,
"See that you make all things according to the pattern shown you
on the mountain."-6 (Pr 3:11-12.)
6 (Heb 7:22; 12:24; 2Co 3:6-11) But now He has obtained a more excellent
ministry, because He is the Mediator of a better covenant, which was
established on better promises.
7 (Heb 7:11; 7:18) For if that first covenant had been faultless,
then no occasion would have been sought for a second.
8 (Jer 31:31-34; Lk 22:20) For finding fault with them, God says:
"Surely the days are coming, says the Lord,
when I will make a new covenant
with the house of Israel
and with the house of Judah,
9 (Dt 5:2-3; Jer 31:32) not according to the covenant
that I made with their fathers
in the day when I took them by the hand
to lead them out of the land of Egypt;
because they did not continue in My covenant,
and I rejected them, says the Lord.
10 (Jer 31:33; 2Co 3:3) This is the covenant that I will make
with the house of Israel
after those days, says the Lord:
I will put My laws into their minds
and write them on their hearts;
and I will be their God,
and they shall be My people.
11 (Isa 54:13; Jn 6:45; 1Jn 2:27) No longer shall every man teach
his neighbour,
and every man his brother, saying, 'Know the Lord,'
for all shall know Me,
from the least of them to the greatest. (Isa 54:13.)
12 (Ro 11:27; Isa 43:25) For I will be merciful toward their unrighteousness,
and their sins and their lawless deeds I will remember no more."
13 (2Co 5:17) In speaking of a new covenant He has made the first one old.
Now that which is decaying and growing old is ready to vanish away.
[1] Now of the things which we have spoken this is the sum: We have such an
high priest, who is set on the right hand of the throne of the Majesty in
the heavens;
[2] A minister of the sanctuary, and of the true tabernacle, which the Lord
pitched, and not man.
[3] For every high priest is ordained to offer gifts and sacrifices:
wherefore it is of necessity that this man have somewhat also to offer.
[4] For if he were on earth, he should not be a priest, seeing that there
are priests that offer gifts according to the law:
[5] Who serve unto the example and shadow of heavenly things, as Moses was
admonished of God when he was about to make the tabernacle: for, See, saith
he, that thou make all things according to the pattern shewed to thee in the
mount.
[6] But now hath he obtained a more excellent ministry, by how much also he
is the mediator of a better covenant, which was established upon better
promises.
[7] For if that first covenant had been faultless, then should no place have
been sought for the second.
[8] For finding fault with them, he saith, Behold, the days come, saith the
Lord, when I will make a new covenant with the house of Israel and with the
house of Judah:
[9] Not according to the covenant that I made with their fathers in the day
when I took them by the hand to lead them out of the land of Egypt; because
they continued not in my covenant, and I regarded them not, saith the Lord.
[10] For this is the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel
after those days, saith the Lord; I will put my laws into their mind, and
write them in their hearts: and I will be to them a God, and they shall be
to me a people:
[11] And they shall not teach every man his neighbour, and every man his
brother, saying, Know the Lord: for all shall know me, from the least to the
greatest.
[12] For I will be merciful to their unrighteousness, and their sins and
their iniquities will I remember no more.
[13] In that he saith, A new covenant, he hath made the first old. Now that
which decayeth and waxeth old is ready to vanish away.
Hebrews 9
The Earthly and Heavenly Sanctuaries
1 (Ex 25:8; Heb 8:2) Then indeed, the first covenant had ordinances for divine
services and an earthly sanctuary.
2 (Ex 40:4; 26:35) A tabernacle was made. In the first part of the tabernacle,
called the Holy Place, were the candlestick, the table, and the showbread.
3 (Ex 26:31-33; 40:3) Behind the second veil was the second part of the
tabernacle called the Most Holy Place,
4 (Ex 26:33; 40:3) which contained the golden censer and the ark of the
covenant overlaid with gold, containing the golden pot holding the manna,
Aaron's rod that budded, and the tablets of the covenant.
5 (Lev 16:2; Ex 25:17-22; 1Ki 8:6-7) Above the ark were the cherubim of glory
overshadowing the mercy seat. Concerning these things we cannot now speak in
detail.
6 (Nu 28:3) Now when these things were thus ordained, the priests would
regularly go into the first part, conducting the services of God.
7 (Lev 16:34; Ex 30:10) But only the high priest went into the second part
once a year, not without blood, which he offered for himself and for the sins
of the people, committed in ignorance.
8 (Jn 14:6; Heb 3:7) The Holy Spirit was signifying through this that the way
into the Most Holy Place was not yet revealed, because the first part of the
tabernacle was still standing.
9 (Heb 5:1) This is an illustration for the present time, showing that
the gifts and sacrifices offered could not perfect the conscience of those
who worshipped,
10 (Col 2:16; Heb 7:16) since they are concerned only with foods and drinks,
ceremonial cleansings, and fleshly ordinances imposed until the time
of reformation.
11 (Heb 10:1; 2:17) But Christ, when He came as a High Priest of the good
things to come, by a greater and more perfect tabernacle,
not made with hands, that is to say, not of this creation,
12 (Heb 10:4; Da 9:24) neither by the blood of goats and calves,
but by His own blood, He entered the Most Holy Place once for all,
having obtained eternal redemption.
13 For if the blood of bulls and goats, and the ashes of a heifer,
sprinkling the unclean, sanctifies so that the flesh is purified,
14 (1Pe 3:18; Heb 6:1; 10:22) how much more shall the blood of Christ,
who through the eternal Spirit offered Himself without blemish to God,
cleanse your conscience from dead works to serve the living God?
15 (Ro 8:28; 1Ti 2:5) For this reason He is the Mediator of a new covenant,
since a death has occurred for the redemption of the sins that were committed
under the first covenant, so that those who are called might receive
the promise of eternal inheritance.
16 For where there is a will, there must also of necessity be the death
of the testator.
17 (Gal 3:15) For a will has force after men are dead, since it has no force
at all while the testator lives.
18 So not even the first covenant was inaugurated without blood.
19 (Nu 19:6; Heb 9:12) For when Moses had taught every precept to all
the people according to the law, he took the blood of calves and goats,
with water, scarlet wool, and hyssop, and sprinkled both the book
and all the people,
20 (Mt 26:28; Ex 24:8) saying, "This is the blood of the covenant that God
has commanded you to keep."(Ex 19:12-13.)
21 (Lev 8:15; 8:19) Likewise he sprinkled both the tabernacle and all the
vessels of worship with blood.
22 (Lev 17:11) And according to the law almost everything must be cleansed
with blood; without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness.
[1] Then verily the first covenant had also ordinances of divine service,
and a worldly sanctuary.
[2] For there was a tabernacle made; the first, wherein was the candlestick,
and the table, and the shewbread; which is called the sanctuary.
[3] And after the second veil, the tabernacle which is called the Holiest of
all;
[4] Which had the golden censer, and the ark of the covenant overlaid round
about with gold, wherein was the golden pot that had manna, and Aaron's rod
that budded, and the tables of the covenant;
[5] And over it the cherubims of glory shadowing the mercyseat; of which we
cannot now speak particularly.
[6] Now when these things were thus ordained, the priests went always into
the first tabernacle, accomplishing the service of God.
[7] But into the second went the high priest alone once every year, not
without blood, which he offered for himself, and for the errors of the
people:
[8] The Holy Ghost this signifying, that the way into the holiest of all was
not yet made manifest, while as the first tabernacle was yet standing:
[9] Which was a figure for the time then present, in which were offered both
gifts and sacrifices, that could not make him that did the service perfect,
as pertaining to the conscience;
[10] Which stood only in meats and drinks, and divers washings, and carnal
ordinances, imposed on them until the time of reformation.
[11] But Christ being come an high priest of good things to come, by a
greater and more perfect tabernacle, not made with hands, that is to say,
not of this building;
[12] Neither by the blood of goats and calves, but by his own blood he
entered in once into the holy place, having obtained eternal redemption for
us.
[13] For if the blood of bulls and of goats, and the ashes of an heifer
sprinkling the unclean, sanctifieth to the purifying of the flesh:
[14] 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?
[15] And for this cause he is the mediator of the new testament, that by
means of death, for the redemption of the transgressions that were under the
first testament, they which are called might receive the promise of eternal
inheritance.
[16] For where a testament is, there must also of necessity be the death of
the testator.
[17] For a testament is of force after men are dead: otherwise it is of no
strength at all while the testator liveth.
[18] Whereupon neither the first testament was dedicated without blood.
[19] For when Moses had spoken every precept to all the people according to
the law, he took the blood of calves and of goats, with water, and scarlet
wool, and hyssop, and sprinkled both the book, and all the people,
[20] Saying, This is the blood of the testament which God hath enjoined unto
you.
[21] Moreover he sprinkled with blood both the tabernacle, and all the
vessels of the ministry.
[22] And almost all things are by the law purged with blood; and without
shedding of blood is no remission.
Christ's Sacrifice Takes Away Sin
23 (Heb 8:5; 9:24) It was therefore necessary that the replicas of heavenly
things be cleansed with these sacrifices, but that the heavenly things
themselves be cleansed with better sacrifices than these.
24 (Heb 8:2) For Christ did not enter holy places made with hands,
which are patterned after the true one, but into heaven itself,
now to appear in the presence of God for us.
25 (Heb 9:7; 10:19) Nor did He enter to offer Himself often, as the high
priest enters the Most Holy Place every year with blood that is not his own.
26 (Heb 1:2; 7:27) For then He would have had to suffer repeatedly
since the world was created, but now He has appeared once at the end
of the ages to put away sin by sacrificing Himself.
27 (Ge 3:19; 2Co 5:10) As it is appointed for men to die once,
but after this comes the judgment,
28 (Titus 2:13; 1Pe 2:24) so Christ was offered once to bear the sins of many,
and He will appear a second time, not to bear sin but to save those who
eagerly wait for Him.
[23] It was therefore necessary that the patterns of things in the heavens
should be purified with these; but the heavenly things themselves with
better sacrifices than these.
[24] For Christ is not entered into the holy places made with hands, which
are the figures of the true; but into heaven itself, now to appear in the
presence of God for us:
[25] Nor yet that he should offer himself often, as the high priest entereth
into the holy place every year with blood of others;
[26] For then must he often have suffered since the foundation of the world:
but now once in the end of the world hath he appeared to put away sin by the
sacrifice of himself.
[27] And as it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the
judgment:
[28] So Christ was once offered to bear the sins of many; and unto them that
look for him shall he appear the second time without sin unto salvation.
Hebrews 10
1 (Heb 8:5; 9:11) For the law is a shadow of the good things to come,
and not the very image of those things. It could never by the same sacrifices,
which they offer continually year after year, perfect those who draw near.
2 Otherwise, would they not have ceased to be offered, since the worshippers,
once purified, would no longer be conscious of sins?
3 (Heb 9:7) But in those sacrifices there is an annual reminder of sins.
4 (Heb 10:11) For it is not possible for the blood of bulls
and goats to take away sins.
5 (Heb 1:6; Ge 3:15) Therefore, when He came into the world, He said:
"Sacrifices and offerings You did not desire,
but a body You have prepared for Me.
6 In burnt offerings and sacrifices for sin
You have had no pleasure.
7 (Ge 3:15) Then I said, 'See, I have come to do Your will, O God,'
as it is written of Me
in the volume of the book."
8 (Heb 10:5) Previously when He said, "You did not desire sacrifices
and offerings. You have had no pleasure in burnt offerings
and sacrifices for sin,"(Ps 40:6.) which are offered in accordance
with the law,
9 (Heb 10:7) then He said, "See, I have come to do Your will, O God."
(Ps 40:8.) He takes away the first that He may establish the second.
10 (Jn 17:19; Heb 2:11) By this will we have been sanctified through
the offering of the body of Jesus Christ once for all.
11 (Heb 5:1; 10:4) But every priest stands daily ministering and repetitively
offering the same sacrifices, which can never take away sins.
12 (Heb 1:3) But this Man, after He had offered one sacrifice for sins
forever, sat down at the right hand of God.
13 (Heb 1:13; Ps 110:1) Since that time He has been waiting for His enemies
to be made His footstool.
14 (Heb 10:1) For by one offering He has forever perfected
those who are sanctified.
15 (Heb 3:7) The Holy Spirit also witnesses to us about this.
For after saying,
16 (Ro 11:27) "This is the covenant that I will make with them
after those days, says the Lord:
I will put My laws into their hearts,
and in their minds I will write them,"(Jer 31:33.)
17 (Heb 8:12) then He adds,
"Their sins and lawless deeds
will I remember no more."(*Jer 31:34.)
18 Now where there is forgiveness of these,
there is no longer an offering for sin.
[1] For the law having a shadow of good things to come, and not the very
image of the things, can never with those sacrifices which they offered year
by year continually make the comers thereunto perfect.
[2] For then would they not have ceased to be offered? because that the
worshippers once purged should have had no more conscience of sins.
[3] But in those sacrifices there is a remembrance again made of sins every
year.
[4] For it is not possible that the blood of bulls and of goats should take
away sins.
[5] Wherefore when he cometh into the world, he saith, Sacrifice and
offering thou wouldest not, but a body hast thou prepared me:
[6] In burnt offerings and sacrifices for sin thou hast had no pleasure.
[7] Then said I, Lo, I come (in the volume of the book it is written of me,)
to do thy will, O God.
[8] Above when he said, Sacrifice and offering and burnt offerings and
offering for sin thou wouldest not, neither hadst pleasure therein; which
are offered by the law;
[9] Then said he, Lo, I come to do thy will, O God. He taketh away the
first, that he may establish the second.
[10] By the which will we are sanctified through the offering of the body of
Jesus Christ once for all.
[11] And every priest standeth daily ministering and offering oftentimes the
same sacrifices, which can never take away sins:
[12] But this man, after he had offered one sacrifice for sins for ever, sat
down on the right hand of God;
[13] From henceforth expecting till his enemies be made his footstool.
[14] For by one offering he hath perfected for ever them that are
sanctified.
[15] Whereof the Holy Ghost also is a witness to us: for after that he had
said before,
[16] This is the covenant that I will make with them after those days, saith
the Lord, I will put my laws into their hearts, and in their minds will I
write them;
[17] And their sins and iniquities will I remember no more.
[18] Now where remission of these is, there is no more offering for sin.
Exhortation and Warning
19 (Eph 2:18; Heb 4:16) Therefore, brothers, we have confidence to enter
the Most Holy Place by the blood of Jesus,
20 (Heb 9:3; Jn 10:9) by a new and living way that He has opened for us
through the veil, that is to say, His flesh,
21 (Heb 2:17; 1Ti 3:15) and since we have a High Priest over the house
of God,
22 (Eze 36:25; 1Co 6:11; Heb 7:19) let us draw near with a true heart
in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled to cleanse them
from an evil conscience, and our bodies washed with pure water.
23 (1Co 1:9; Heb 3:6) Let us firmly hold the profession of our faith
without wavering, for He who promised is faithful.
24 (Titus 3:8; Heb 13:1) And let us consider how to spur one another
to love and to good works.
25 (Ac 2:42; Heb 3:13) Let us not forsake the assembling of ourselves
together, as is the manner of some, but let us exhort one another,
especially as you see the Day approaching.
26 (Dt 17:12; Heb 6:4-6) For if we willfully continue to sin after
we have received the knowledge of the truth, there no longer remains
a sacrifice for sins,
27 (Isa 26:11; Eze 36:5) but a fearful expectation of judgment and fiery
indignation, which will devour the adversaries.
28 (Heb 2:2; Dt 19:15) Anyone who despised Moses' law died without mercy
in the presence of two or three witnesses.
29 (Eph 4:30; Heb 2:3) How much more severe a punishment do you suppose
he deserves, who has trampled under foot the Son of God, and has regarded
the blood of the covenant that sanctified him to be a common thing,
and has insulted the Spirit of grace?
30 (Dt 32:35-36; Ro 12:19) For we know Him who said, "Vengeance is Mine,"
says the Lord, "I will repay."(Dt 32:35.) And again He says, "The Lord will
judge His people."(Dt 32:36.)
31 (Isa 33:14; Lk 12:5) It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands
of the living God.
32 (Heb 6:4; Php 1:29-30) Remember the former days, after you were
enlightened, in which you endured a great struggle of afflictions.
33 (1Co 4:9; Php 4:14) In part you were made a spectacle both by reproaches
and afflictions. And in part you became companions of those who were so
abused.
34 (1Pe 1:4; 2Ti 1:16) For you had compassion on me in my chains and joyfully
endured the confiscation of your property, knowing that you have in heaven a
better and an enduring possession for yourselves.
35 (Heb 11:26) Therefore do not throw away your confidence, which will be
greatly rewarded.
36 (Lk 21:19; Heb 12:1) For you need patience, so that after you have done
the will of God, you will receive the promise.
37 (Rev 22:20; Isa 26:20) For,
"In yet a little while,
He who is to come will come, and will not wait.
38 (Ro 1:17; Gal 3:11) Now the just shall live by faith;
but if anyone draws back,
My soul shall have no pleasure in him."
39 But we are not of those who draw back to destruction,
but of those who have faith to the saving of the soul.
[19] Having therefore, brethren, boldness to enter into the holiest by the
blood of Jesus,
[20] By a new and living way, which he hath consecrated for us, through the
veil, that is to say, his flesh;
[21] And having an high priest over the house of God;
[22] Let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having
our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience, and our bodies washed with
pure water.
[23] Let us hold fast the profession of our faith without wavering; (for he
is faithful that promised;)
[24] And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works:
[25] Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of
some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day
approaching.
[26] For if we sin wilfully after that we have received the knowledge of the
truth, there remaineth no more sacrifice for sins,
[27] But a certain fearful looking for of judgment and fiery indignation,
which shall devour the adversaries.
[28] He that despised Moses' law died without mercy under two or three
witnesses:
[29] Of how much sorer punishment, suppose ye, shall he be thought worthy,
who hath trodden under foot the Son of God, and hath counted the blood of
the covenant, wherewith he was sanctified, an unholy thing, and hath done
despite unto the Spirit of grace?
[30] For we know him that hath said, Vengeance belongeth unto me, I will
recompense, saith the Lord. And again, The Lord shall judge his people.
[31] It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God.
[32] But call to remembrance the former days, in which, after ye were
illuminated, ye endured a great fight of afflictions;
[33] Partly, whilst ye were made a gazingstock both by reproaches and
afflictions; and partly, whilst ye became companions of them that were so
used.
[34] For ye had compassion of me in my bonds, and took joyfully the spoiling
of your goods, knowing in yourselves that ye have in heaven a better and an
enduring substance.
[35] Cast not away therefore your confidence, which hath great recompence of
reward.
[36] For ye have need of patience, that, after ye have done the will of God,
ye might receive the promise.
[37] For yet a little while, and he that shall come will come, and will not
tarry.
[38] Now the just shall live by faith: but if any man draw back, my soul
shall have no pleasure in him.
[39] But we are not of them who draw back unto perdition; but of them that
believe to the saving of the soul.
2) Our Daily Bread for 16 December 2023 Titled
Community in Christ
Acts 2:38-47
38 (Lk 24:47; Ac 8:12; 22:16) Peter said to them,
"Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ
for the forgiveness of sins, and you shall receive the gift
of the Holy Spirit.
39 (Joel 2:32; Isa 44:3) For the promise is to you, and to your children,
and to all who are far away, as many as the Lord our God will call."
40 (Mt 17:17; Dt 32:5) With many other words he testified and exhorted them,
saying, "Be saved from this perverse generation."
41 (Ac 2:37; 2:47) Then those who gladly received his word were baptized,
and that day about three thousand souls were added to them.
[38] Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in
the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the
gift of the Holy Ghost.
[39] For the promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are
afar off, even as many as the Lord our God shall call.
[40] And with many other words did he testify and exhort, saying, Save
yourselves from this untoward generation.
[41] Then they that gladly received his word were baptized: and the same day
there were added unto them about three thousand souls.
Life Among the Believers
42 (Ac 1:14; 20:7; 2:46) They continued steadfastly in the apostles'
teaching and fellowship, in the breaking of bread and in the prayers.
43 Fear came to every soul. And many wonders and signs were done through
the apostles.
44 (Ac 4:32) All who believed were together and had all things in common.
45 They sold their property and goods and distributed them to all,
according to their need.
46 (Ac 5:42; 20:7) And continuing daily with one mind in the temple,
and breaking bread from house to house, they ate their food with gladness
and simplicity of heart,
47 (Ac 11:24; 2:41) praising God and having favor with all the people.
And the Lord added to the church daily those who were being saved.
[42] And they continued stedfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship,
and in breaking of bread, and in prayers.
[43] And fear came upon every soul: and many wonders and signs were done by
the apostles.
[44] And all that believed were together, and had all things common;
[45] And sold their possessions and goods, and parted them to all men, as
every man had need.
[46] And they, continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking
bread from house to house, did eat their meat with gladness and singleness
of heart,
[47] Praising God, and having favour with all the people. And the Lord added
to the church daily such as should be saved.
In the southern Bahamas lies a small piece of land called Ragged Island. In
the nineteenth century, it had an active salt industry, but because of a
decline in that industry, many people emigrated to nearby islands. In 2016,
when fewer than eighty people lived there, the island featured three religious
denominations, yet the people all gathered together in one place for worship
and fellowship each week. With so few residents, a sense of community was
especially vital for them.
The people of the early church felt a crucial need and desire for community as
well. They were excited about their newfound faith that was made possible by
Jesus' death and resurrection. But they also knew He was no longer physically
with them, so they knew they needed each other. They devoted themselves to the
apostles' teachings, to fellowship, and to sharing Communion together (Acts
2:42). They gathered in homes for worship and meals and cared for others'
needs. The church is described in this way: "All the believers were one in
heart and mind" (4:32). Filled with the Holy Spirit, they praised God
continually and brought the church's needs to Him in prayer.
Community is essential for our growth and support. Don't try to go it alone.
God will develop that sense of community as you share your struggles and joys
with others and draw near to Him together.
By: Anne Cetas
Reflect & Pray
How might you commit to spending time with fellow believers?
Where and when will you do this?
I need You and Your people, God, to help me live the fullest life for You.
3) Daily verses taken from Billy Graham Evangelical Organisation
Words in Season Scripture Memory Tools
Week 5 Rejoice in Grace - Day 7 Break up Your Fallow Ground
Hosea 10:12
12 Sow to yourselves righteousness, reap mercy,
break up your fallow ground; for it is time to seek the Lord,
until He comes and rains righteousness upon you.
12 Sow to yourselves in righteousness, reap in mercy;
break up your fallow ground: for it is time to seek the LORD,
till he come and rain righteousness upon you.
When a farmer prepares to plant his crop, a great deal of preparation
is necessary before the seen can be sown. He has to plow up the ground,
turning under the stubble from the previous harvest, harrow the field to
break up the clods, and fertilise- readying the soil for optimum growth.
A fallow field, one that was not planted the previous season, must be
broken and worked so that the seed can find root in the ground.
The Bible likens spiritual growth to raising crops. God is the one
who brings rain and gives growth, but the success or failure
of the seed - both in initial salvation and in ongoing maturity -
is often linked to how well the soil has been prepared.
That preparation isn't always a pleasant or rewarding process.
We may resist the plowing or harrowing that comes through
the Holy Spirit's conviction of sin. We may need to dig up boulders
of bitterness and thistles of anger; we may have to plow under the
stubble of the last crop of lessons, working that mulch deep into our lives.
But the final outcome is worth the effort - even the pain - that
preparation brings. Broken up, harrowed, readied for the seed of God's Word,
we are rich and fertile ground, and the seed of righteousness produces
an abundant crop in us.
Application
a) In what ways have I been "broken up" and "harrowed" by the Holy
Spirit to prepare me for God's work in me?
b) How can I apply these verses to myself? How can I
"sow in righteousness," "reap in mercy," "break up my fallow ground"?
4) From Prosperity Promises - Kenneth Copeland
Exodus 3:7-8
7 (Ps 106:44; Ex 2:23-25)The Lord said,
"I have surely seen the affliction of My people who are in Egypt
and have heard their cry on account of their taskmasters,
for I know their sorrows.
8 (Ge 50:24; 15:18-21; Ex 13:5) Therefore, I have come down
to deliver them out of the hand of the Egyptians,
and to bring them up out of that land to a good and spacious land,
to a land flowing with milk and honey, to the place of
the Canaanites, the Hittites, the Amorites, the Perizzites,
the Hivites, and the Jebusites."
7 And the LORD said, I have surely seen the affliction of my people
which are in Egypt, and have heard their cry by reason of their taskmasters;
for I know their sorrows;
8 and I am come down to deliver them out of the hand
of the Egyptians, and to bring them up out of that land unto a good land and
a large, unto a land flowing with milk and honey; unto the place of the
Canaanites, and the Hittites, and the Amorites, and the Perizzites,
and the Hivites, and the Jebusites.
5) From a Book called God's Promises for you:
When you are lonely
PSALMS 23
A Psalm of David.
1 The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.
2 (Ps 63:1; 84:2) He makes me lie down in green pastures;
He leads me beside still waters.
3 (Ps 79:10; 80:5) He restores my soul;
He leads me in paths of righteousness
for His name's sake.
4 (Isa 30:29; Ps 62:8) Even though I walk
through the valley of the shadow of death,
I will fear no evil;
for You are with me;
Your rod and Your staff,
they comfort me.
5 (Ps 42:11; 43:5) You prepare a table before me
in the presence of my enemies;
You anoint my head with oil;
my cup runs over.
6 (2Sa 17:22; Dt 3:8-9) Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me
all the days of my life,
and I will dwell in the house of the Lord
forever.
Psalm 23
A Psalm of David.
1 The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want.
2 He maketh me to lie down in green pastures:
He leadeth me beside the still waters.
3 He restoreth my soul:
He leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake.
4 Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death,
I will fear no evil:
for thou art with me; Thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.
5 Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies:
Thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over.
6 Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life:
And I will dwell in the house of the LORD for ever.
Remember God's promises when You pray
The Lord's prayer
Matthew 6:9-13
9 "Therefore pray in this manner:
Our Father who is in heaven,
hallowed be Your name.
10 (Mt 3:2; 4:17) Your kingdom come;
Your will be done
on earth, as it is in heaven.
11 (Pr 30:8; Isa 33:16) Give us this day our daily bread.
12 (Ex 34:7; Ps 32:1) And forgive us our debts,
as we forgive our debtors.
13 (1Co 10:13; Jn 17:15) And lead us not into temptation,
but deliver us from evil.
For Yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen."
9 After this manner therefore pray ye:
Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name.
10 Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.
11 Give us this day our daily bread.
12 And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors.
13 And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil:
For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen.
6) This come from Praying for Muslims in Canada 2015 (Is there a 2023 edition?)
The Northern Territories of Canada
Yukon
Yukon Total population (2015) 36500 Muslim (est) 69
In Whitehorse the Muslim population grew from 2 families
in 2001 to more than 60 people in 2014. Originally meeting in a church,
they now meet for prayer service in a former office space.
Pray for Muslims and believers in Whitehorse to come together,
and for Muslims to find faith in Jesus Christ.
Northwest Territories (NWT)
NWT population (2015) 43600 Muslim (est) 473
The Muslim community of Yellowknife has grown from 275 to 330 un the past year.
To replace their inadequate facility, they are planning a C$2 to C$2.5 million
Islamic Centre.
Pray that the Muslims in Yellowknife and all of the NWT will awaken to
spiritual hunger and be open to saving faith in Jesus Christ.
Nunavut (NU)
NU total population (2015) 36600 Muslim (est) 86
The Islamic Centre of Iqaluit now claim about 100 Muslims and have surpassed
80 % of their funding goal to building the first mosque in this territory.
Their stated goal is "To spread the message of Islam
in the far northern reaches of Canada."
Pray that believers in Iqaluit take up Jesus' command to love and reach
their Muslim neighbours with the Gospel.
Adding further
30 days of prayer for the Muslim World 24 April to 23 May 2020
Under the Keep Praying page
When the new moon is sighted it marks the beginning of t he new Islamic month
and Eid al-Fitr, the "Festival of Breaking the Fast", will start! After 30 days
of fasting, the Eid celebration at the end of Ramadan is a joyful time that
usually lasts about 3 days. Muslims will buy new clothes, exchange gifts and,
of course, enjoy special foods. In Muslim-majority nations, the streets may be
decorated and festivals will be held.
For many Muslims, Eid-al-Fitr begins with communal prayers at daybreak and the
distribution of money (zakat) to the poor, which is one of the 5 pillars of
Islam.
You can greet Muslim friends during this time by saying "Eid Mubarak",
which means Blessed Eid!"
Ramadan is over for this year, but you can continue to pray for Muslims you
know, and Muslims around the world:
- Despite the unsettling developments in our world today that involve actions
in the name of Islam, there is at the same time a largely untold story about
unprecedented movement to Christ among Muslims. There have been more such
movements of thousands or more new disciples among Muslims in the last three
decades or so than in all the previous history of Christian Muslim
relationships! Pray for this momentum to continue.
Acts 2:12-17 : 17 12 They were all amazed and perplexed, saying to each other,
"What does this mean?"
13 (1Co 14:23) Others mocking said, "These men are full of new wine."
Peter's Speech at Pentecost
14 (Ac 1:26) But Peter, standing up with the eleven, lifted up his voice
and said to them, "Men of Judea and all you who dwell in Jerusalem,
let this be known to you, and listen to my words.
15 For these are not drunk, as you suppose,
since it is the third hour of the day.
16 But this is what was spoken by the prophet Joel:
17 (Isa 44:3; Ac 10:45) 'In the last days it shall be,' says God,
'that I will pour out My Spirit on all flesh;
your sons and your daughters shall prophesy,
your young men shall see visions,
and your old men shall dream dreams.'
- Pray for Christian workers an organisations focused on seeing effective
discipleship movements among Muslim people.
- Ask the Holy Spirit to continue to inspire you to have god's heart for
Muslims, to see them as He does, and to be the light that then to Jesus.
Matthew 5:14-15 : 14 "You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a
hill cannot be hidden. 15 Neither do men light a candle and put it under
a basket, but on a candlestick. And it gives light to all who are in the
house."
Ideas for prayer
- Pray for opportunities to show the love of Christ to Muslims around you
- Pray for, and offer generous hospitality to, those you know who are serving
Christ among Muslim people -
Romans 12:13 "contribute to the needs of the saints, practice hospitality."
- When you gather with fellow believers, remember to pray for Muslims
throughout the year and encourage them to also participate in 30 Days!
My paternal side is of Muslim heritage and will offer this section to further
call for Muslim converts to Christian and any other converts to Christianity
(Hindus, Jews, aboriginals Canadian, atheists, secular humanists, ...)
7) Prayers for the nation (Canada) coming from Prayer map of Canada
http://www.ehc.ca
16th Day of the Month
a) Pray that God will convict the hearts of Canadians of the false
idea that all moral choices are equal and without consequences
( John 16:7-8
7 "Nevertheless I tell you the truth: It is expedient for you that I go away.
For if I do not go away, the Counselor will not come to you.
But if I go, I will send Him to you.
8 When He comes, He will convict the world of sin
and of righteousness and of judgment"
7 Nevertheless I tell you the truth; It is expedient for you that I go away:
for if I go not away, the Comforter will not come unto you;
but if I depart, I will send him unto you.
8 And when he is come, he will reprove the world of sin,
and of righteousness, and of judgment:
)
b) Pray that people's hearts would be opened to see the folly
of denying God's supremacy
(
John 14:6
6 Jesus said to him,
"I am the way, the truth, and the life.
No one comes to the Father except through Me."
6 Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life:
no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.
Rom 3:19-20
19 Now we know that whatever the law says,
it says to those who are under the law,
so that every mouth may be silenced,
and all the world may become accountable to God.
20 Therefore by the works of the law
no flesh will be justified in His sight,
for through the law comes the knowledge of sin.
19 Now we know that what things soever the law saith, it saith to them who are
under the law: that every mouth may be stopped, and all the world may become
guilty before God.
20 Therefore by the deeds of the law there shall no flesh be justified
in his sight: for by the law is the knowledge of sin.
2 Cor 5:10
10 For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ,
that each one may receive his recompense in the body,
according to what he has done,
whether it was good or bad.
10 For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ; that every one
may receive the things done in his body, according to that he hath done,
whether it be good or bad.
2 Cor 10:5
5 casting down imaginations and every high thing
that exalts itself against the knowledge of God,
bringing every thought into
captivity to the obedience of Christ,
5 casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against
the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought
to the obedience of Christ;
)
Advent Day 21
From C. S. Lewis A Grand Miracle
[The Queen of Narnia] "'isn't a real queen at all,' answered Lucy.
'She is a horrible White Witch She has made an enchantment
over the whole country so that it is always winter here and never Christmas.'
'I wonder if there's any point in going on,' said Susan....
'What about just going home?'" - C. S. Lewis
(Read this and more in The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, p. 56.)
Always Winter and Never Christmas
Always winter and never Christmas. Nothing could be more depressing.
Continual anticipation of celebration, gift-giving, and wonderful music,
but never arriving at the promise. Advent is exciting, but a perpetual
Advent season would drag on. In Narnia, it had been winter for a hundred
years, but Christmas never arrived. The white witch had bound Narnia
in ice and snow. The winter weather contained the promise,
but not the reality of Christmas. Without the breaking of her
enchantment, Christmas would never come.
Lucy had been the first to enter Narnia. Her words from The Lion,
the Witch and the Wardrobe repeat what she has heard: always
winter and never Christmas. But in that phrase there lies a promise.
Some day it will be Christmas! Asian is on the move! The lion is coming.
He will defeat the witch. The wardrobe will prove to be a gateway
to the fulfillment of a promise. Evil has its limits. One day we will celebrate.
And so Asian came, and the ice and snow began to melt. Eventually,
the witch's power melted as surely as the ice and snow had.
Since the first promise of a Savior and the first declaration of a final
Day of the Lord, much time has passed. The promise remains valid,
because "a day is like a thousand years, and a thousand years are like a day"
with the Lord (2 Peter 3:8). He has come, and he is coming again.
God, give us the patience to trust your promises. Amen.
8 (Ps 90:4) But, beloved, do not be ignorant of this one thing,
that with the Lord one day is as a thousand years, and a thousand years
as one day.
9 (1Ti 2:4; Hab 2:3; Heb 10:37) The Lord is not slow concerning His promise,
as some count slowness. But He is patient with us, because He does not want
any to perish, but all to come to repentance.
2 Peter 3:8-9
From Follow The Story by Marva J. Dawn
SATURDAY, THIRD WEEK OF ADVENT
The Lord God
68 "Blessed be the Lord God of Israel,...
-Luke 1:68a
I have taken the liberty of capitalizing the entire name LORD
(here and in earlier meditations) because it seems most likely
that the speakers utilized the Aramaic version of the original
Hebrew word we translate "Jehovah" or "Yahweh." In English we employ
the all-capitalized word rather than Lord, which renders the Hebrew
name Adonai or "Sovereign One." LORD means the "Covenant One,"
so you might want to watch for its occurrences in the First Testament
and note each time the choice of that assuring/fulfilling name.
Here Zechariah blesses Israel's Promising God because he had scrutinised
his people positively and reclaimed them after all the times in their
history they had gone astray.
Zechariah's son John would have a great part in a future restoration
(Luke 1:15b-16).
Do we need a more favourable view of the First
(rather than "Old" or, as some think, "Outdated") Testament?
To see all the grace that is implied by LORD might
be an excellent starting point.
Prayer
The immensity of your grace, LORD, dazzles us! Amen.
Read Luke 1:67-68.
67 His father Zechariah was filled with the Holy Spirit
and prophesied, saying,
68 "Blessed be the Lord God of Israel,
for He has visited and redeemed His people,
From the Ah-Has of Advent by Rich Bimler
THIRD SATURDAY
AH-HA! Ambassadors of Health, Hope and ATTRIBUTES!
How beautiful upon the mountains
are the feet of him who brings good news,
who proclaims peace,
who brings good news of happiness,
who proclaims salvation,
who says to Zion,
"Your God reigns!"ISAIAH 52:7
Today's Scripture outlines some of the Advent AH-HAs of attributes
of those who share the good news of Christmas . .. and beyond. How
beautiful are the feet of the messengers who bring peace and hope to
a troubled world! And then we are even encouraged to "break forth in
singing," another great attribute given to us to use to glorify the Lords
Think of some of the AH-HA attributes that you are sharing with others. Go
ahead. no need to be a "shucks, I don't have much" kind of person. We
all have been blessed with so many gifts, and I do not mean those lying
under your tree.
As an experiment, try this; Write down or think of six words you would use
to describe your Advent journey of faith. This idea evolved from a book
entitled Not Quite What I was Planning: Six-Word Memoirs by Writers
Famous card Obscure in which people summed up their lives in six
words. One comic wrote, "Well,l thought it was funny." Ernest Hemingway
wrote, "For sale, baby shoes, never worn." Folks from Chicago might write,
'Cubbies--just wait until next year!" A former math teacher of mine would
have said. "l never could count well!'
Some quick attributes of Advent for me an: "He came to give us life."o r
Everything in the name of Jesus." or "The Word Made Flesh among us.'
Share your attributes as gifts to others.
Lord. thanks for giving us gifts to announce your birth, death
and resurrection to others. Keep us creative, constant, consistent
and Christ-like. In Jesus' name, Amen ... and AH-HA!
Read Isaiah 52:7-10.
7 (Isa 40:9; Na 1:15; Ps 93:1) How beautiful upon the mountains
are the feet of him who brings good news,
who proclaims peace,
who brings good news of happiness,
who proclaims salvation,
who says to Zion,
"Your God reigns!"
8 (Isa 62:6; 1Co 13:12) Your watchmen lift up their voices;
they sing joyfully together;
for they shall see with their own eyes
when the Lord brings Zion back.
9 (Isa 51:3; 48:20) Break forth into joy, sing together,
you waste places of Jerusalem.
For the Lord has comforted His people;
He has redeemed Jerusalem.
10 (Isa 51:9; Lk 3:6) The Lord has bared His holy arm
in the eyes of all the nations,
and all the ends of the earth shall see
the salvation of our God.
From On Eagle's wings Day 21
Answering the Call by Maureen Clayton (Methodist)
On Eagles Wings Bible Camp and Office Volunteer
Carnforth, England
And it came to pass, as the angels were gone away from them
into heaven, the shepherds said one to another, Let us now
go... Luke 2:15, KJV
Before COVID, I spent many years volunteering at an
orphanage and school in Africa. But after my seventieth
birthday I started to believe I was too old to be used by the
Lord. I feared I had nothing left to offer.
One day in my personal devotions, the following words leapt
off the page: "get your bags ready for something different." I
was uncertain what this meant. England was still in lockdown!
There was no host of angels, but my heart recognized God had
spoken and I needed to be prepared for God's plan.
Shortly afterwards, I was invited to go to Inuvik and
Tuktoyaktuk with On Eagle's Wings. Although apprehensive,
I went. I was deeply impacted when one little girl said, "I love
God and I love you guys too." Then I knew my presence in the
North had been a blessing.
The shepherds, ordinary people, were an integral part of the
Jesus story. No matter our age, education, country, or
economic status, we can participate in God’s redemptive story
if we are willing to recognize and follow his voice.
Conclusion:
Pray to the Lord and pray to Him to have spiritual meat and not milk
and to Him who can save your soul.
Pray to the Lord: "I need You and Your people, God, to help me live
the fullest life for You."
Pray to the Lord and pray for the Lord to work in You to break up Fallow
Ground.
Pray to the Lord and pray to know Him as He who hears to prayers of the
oppressed.
Pray to the Lord and pray to know as the One who can see you through
dangerous times.
Pray for Muslims and believers in Whitehorse and the Yukon to come together,
and for Muslims to find faith in Jesus Christ.
Pray for Muslims and believers in Yellowknife to come together,
and for Muslims to find faith in Jesus Christ.
Pray that believers in Iqaluit take up Jesus' command to love and reach
their Muslim neighbours with the Gospel.
- Pray for opportunities to show the love of Christ to Muslims around you
- Pray for, and offer generous hospitality to, those you know who are serving
Christ among Muslim people -
Romans 12:13 "contribute to the needs of the saints, practice hospitality."
- When you gather with fellow believers, remember to pray for Muslims
throughout the year and encourage them to also participate in 30 Days!
Pray that God will convict the hearts of Canadians of the false
idea that all moral choices are equal and without consequences
Pray that people's hearts would be opened to see the folly
of denying God's supremacy
God, give us the patience to trust your promises. Amen.
Pray: The immensity of your grace, LORD, dazzles us! Amen.
Pray: Lord. thanks for giving us gifts to announce your birth, death
and resurrection to others. Keep us creative, constant, consistent
and Christ-like. In Jesus' name, Amen ... and AH-HA!
Pray:Thank you, Heavenly Father, for using ordinary people in
extra ordinary ways to bring your Kingdom to earth.
Pray that those following false ideologies will be open to the Gospel in Iran.
Pray to the Lord that to know the Holy Spirit.
and Seek ye first the Kingdom of God and His Righteousness.
Remember eternity starts now -
Pray for the direction you take to the Ever lasting loving God.
1) Hebrews 7,8,9,10
Hebrews 7
The Priestly Order of Melchizedek
1 (Ge 14:18-20; Mk 5:7) For this Melchizedek, king of Salem, priest
of the Most High God, met Abraham returning from the slaughter of the kings
and blessed him.
2 To him Abraham also gave a tenth part of everything. In the first place,
his name is translated "king of righteousness," and then also he is king
of Salem, which means "king of peace."
3 (Heb 7:6) Without father, without mother, without descent,
having neither beginning of days nor end of life,
but made like the Son of God, he continually remains a priest.
4 (Ac 2:29; Ge 14:20) Now consider how great this man was, to whom even
the patriarch Abraham gave a tenth of the spoils.
5 Surely the sons of Levi, who receive the office of the priesthood, have
a command to take tithes of the people according to the law, that is,
from their brothers, though they also come from the seed of Abraham.
6 (Ro 4:13; Ge 14:19-20) But this man, whose descent is not numbered among
them, received tithes from Abraham and blessed him who had the promises.
7 Without question, the inferior is blessed by the superior.
8 (Heb 5:6; 6:20) In the one case mortal men receive tithes, but in the other
he of whom it is witnessed that he is alive receives them.
9 One might say that Levi also, who receives tithes,
paid tithes through Abraham,
10 for he was still in the loins of his father when Melchizedek met Abraham.
11 (Heb 8:7; Gal 2:21) If perfection were attained through the Levitical
priesthood (for through it the people received the law), what further need
was there that another priest should rise in the order of Melchizedek,
rather than established in the order of Aaron?
12 For a change in the priesthood necessitates a change in the law.
13 For the One concerning whom these things are spoken pertains to another
tribe, from which no man served at the altar.
14 (Isa 11:1; Mic 5:2; Lk 3:33) For it is evident that our Lord descended
from Judah, a tribe concerning which Moses said nothing about priests.
15 This is far more evident when another priest arises in the likeness
of Melchizedek,
16 who becomes a priest not by a law pertaining to ancestry,
but by the power of an endless life.
17 (Ps 110:4; Heb 5:6) For He testifies:
"You are a priest forever,
in the order of Melchizedek."(Ps 110:4.)
18 (Ro 8:3; Gal 4:9) For there is then an annulling of the previous
commandment due to its weakness and uselessness.
19 (Ac 13:39; Heb 4:16) For the law made nothing perfect, but now
a better hope is introduced, by which we draw near to God.
20 And He was not made a priest without an oath.
21 (Ps 110:4; Heb 7:17) (Other priests were made without an oath,
but this One with an oath by the One who said to Him:
"The Lord has sworn
and will not relent,
'You are a priest forever, in the order of Melchizedek.' " (Nu 23:19;
1Sa 15:29; Ps 110:4.))
22 Through this oath Jesus became the guarantor of a better covenant.
23 And the former priests were numerous because they were hindered
from serving because of death.
24 (Heb 7:28; Jn 12:34) But He, because He lives forever,
has an everlasting priesthood.
25 (Ro 8:34; Heb 7:19; Jn 14:6) Therefore He is able to save to the uttermost
those who come to God through Him, because He at all times lives to make
intercession for them.
26 (Heb 8:1; 2Co 5:21) For such a High Priest was fitting for us,
for He is holy, innocent, undefiled, separate from sinners,
and is higher than the heavens.
27 (Heb 9:28; 5:3; 9:12) Unlike those high priests, He does not need to
offer daily sacrifices-first for His own sins and then for the people's,
for He did this once for all when He offered up Himself.
28 (Heb 2:10; 1:2) For the law appoints men who are weak as high priests,
but the word of the oath, which came after the law, appoints a Son who is
made perfect forever.
[1] For this Melchisedec, king of Salem, priest of the most high God, who
met Abraham returning from the slaughter of the kings, and blessed him;
[2] To whom also Abraham gave a tenth part of all; first being by
interpretation King of righteousness, and after that also King of Salem,
which is, King of peace;
[3] Without father, without mother, without descent, having neither
beginning of days, nor end of life; but made like unto the Son of God;
abideth a priest continually.
[4] Now consider how great this man was, unto whom even the patriarch
Abraham gave the tenth of the spoils.
[5] And verily they that are of the sons of Levi, who receive the office of
the priesthood, have a commandment to take tithes of the people according to
the law, that is, of their brethren, though they come out of the loins of
Abraham:
[6] But he whose descent is not counted from them received tithes of
Abraham, and blessed him that had the promises.
[7] And without all contradiction the less is blessed of the better.
[8] And here men that die receive tithes; but there he receiveth them, of
whom it is witnessed that he liveth.
[9] And as I may so say, Levi also, who receiveth tithes, payed tithes in
Abraham.
[10] For he was yet in the loins of his father, when Melchisedec met him.
[11] If therefore perfection were by the Levitical priesthood, (for under it
the people received the law,) what further need was there that another
priest should rise after the order of Melchisedec, and not be called after
the order of Aaron?
[12] For the priesthood being changed, there is made of necessity a change
also of the law.
[13] For he of whom these things are spoken pertaineth to another tribe, of
which no man gave attendance at the altar.
[14] For it is evident that our Lord sprang out of Juda; of which tribe
Moses spake nothing concerning priesthood.
[15] And it is yet far more evident: for that after the similitude of
Melchisedec there ariseth another priest,
[16] Who is made, not after the law of a carnal commandment, but after the
power of an endless life.
[17] For he testifieth, Thou art a priest for ever after the order of
Melchisedec.
[18] For there is verily a disannulling of the commandment going before for
the weakness and unprofitableness thereof.
[19] For the law made nothing perfect, but the bringing in of a better hope
did; by the which we draw nigh unto God.
[20] And inasmuch as not without an oath he was made priest:
[21] (For those priests were made without an oath; but this with an oath by
him that said unto him, The Lord sware and will not repent, Thou art a
priest for ever after the order of Melchisedec:)
[22] By so much was Jesus made a surety of a better testament.
[23] And they truly were many priests, because they were not suffered to
continue by reason of death:
[24] But this man, because he continueth ever, hath an unchangeable
priesthood.
[25] 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.
[26] For such an high priest became us, who is holy, harmless, undefiled,
separate from sinners, and made higher than the heavens;
[27] Who needeth not daily, as those high priests, to offer up sacrifice,
first for his own sins, and then for the people's: for this he did once,
when he offered up himself.
[28] For the law maketh men high priests which have infirmity; but the word
of the oath, which was since the law, maketh the Son, who is consecrated for
evermore.
Hebrews 8
Jesus Our High Priest
1 (Heb 1:3; Col 3:1) Now this is the main point of the things that we are
saying: We have such a High Priest, who is seated at the right hand
of the throne of the Majesty in the heavens,
2 a minister in the sanctuary and the true tabernacle, which the Lord,
not man, set up.
3 (Heb 5:1; Eph 5:2) For every high priest is appointed to offer gifts
and sacrifices. Therefore it is necessary that this priest also have
something to offer.
4 For if He were on earth, He would not be a priest,
since there are priests that offer gifts according to the law.
5 (Ex 25:40; Col 2:17) They serve in a sanctuary that is an example
and shadow of the heavenly one, as Moses was instructed
by God when he was about to make the tabernacle,
"See that you make all things according to the pattern shown you
on the mountain."-6 (Pr 3:11-12.)
6 (Heb 7:22; 12:24; 2Co 3:6-11) But now He has obtained a more excellent
ministry, because He is the Mediator of a better covenant, which was
established on better promises.
7 (Heb 7:11; 7:18) For if that first covenant had been faultless,
then no occasion would have been sought for a second.
8 (Jer 31:31-34; Lk 22:20) For finding fault with them, God says:
"Surely the days are coming, says the Lord,
when I will make a new covenant
with the house of Israel
and with the house of Judah,
9 (Dt 5:2-3; Jer 31:32) not according to the covenant
that I made with their fathers
in the day when I took them by the hand
to lead them out of the land of Egypt;
because they did not continue in My covenant,
and I rejected them, says the Lord.
10 (Jer 31:33; 2Co 3:3) This is the covenant that I will make
with the house of Israel
after those days, says the Lord:
I will put My laws into their minds
and write them on their hearts;
and I will be their God,
and they shall be My people.
11 (Isa 54:13; Jn 6:45; 1Jn 2:27) No longer shall every man teach
his neighbour,
and every man his brother, saying, 'Know the Lord,'
for all shall know Me,
from the least of them to the greatest. (Isa 54:13.)
12 (Ro 11:27; Isa 43:25) For I will be merciful toward their unrighteousness,
and their sins and their lawless deeds I will remember no more."
13 (2Co 5:17) In speaking of a new covenant He has made the first one old.
Now that which is decaying and growing old is ready to vanish away.
[1] Now of the things which we have spoken this is the sum: We have such an
high priest, who is set on the right hand of the throne of the Majesty in
the heavens;
[2] A minister of the sanctuary, and of the true tabernacle, which the Lord
pitched, and not man.
[3] For every high priest is ordained to offer gifts and sacrifices:
wherefore it is of necessity that this man have somewhat also to offer.
[4] For if he were on earth, he should not be a priest, seeing that there
are priests that offer gifts according to the law:
[5] Who serve unto the example and shadow of heavenly things, as Moses was
admonished of God when he was about to make the tabernacle: for, See, saith
he, that thou make all things according to the pattern shewed to thee in the
mount.
[6] But now hath he obtained a more excellent ministry, by how much also he
is the mediator of a better covenant, which was established upon better
promises.
[7] For if that first covenant had been faultless, then should no place have
been sought for the second.
[8] For finding fault with them, he saith, Behold, the days come, saith the
Lord, when I will make a new covenant with the house of Israel and with the
house of Judah:
[9] Not according to the covenant that I made with their fathers in the day
when I took them by the hand to lead them out of the land of Egypt; because
they continued not in my covenant, and I regarded them not, saith the Lord.
[10] For this is the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel
after those days, saith the Lord; I will put my laws into their mind, and
write them in their hearts: and I will be to them a God, and they shall be
to me a people:
[11] And they shall not teach every man his neighbour, and every man his
brother, saying, Know the Lord: for all shall know me, from the least to the
greatest.
[12] For I will be merciful to their unrighteousness, and their sins and
their iniquities will I remember no more.
[13] In that he saith, A new covenant, he hath made the first old. Now that
which decayeth and waxeth old is ready to vanish away.
Hebrews 9
The Earthly and Heavenly Sanctuaries
1 (Ex 25:8; Heb 8:2) Then indeed, the first covenant had ordinances for divine
services and an earthly sanctuary.
2 (Ex 40:4; 26:35) A tabernacle was made. In the first part of the tabernacle,
called the Holy Place, were the candlestick, the table, and the showbread.
3 (Ex 26:31-33; 40:3) Behind the second veil was the second part of the
tabernacle called the Most Holy Place,
4 (Ex 26:33; 40:3) which contained the golden censer and the ark of the
covenant overlaid with gold, containing the golden pot holding the manna,
Aaron's rod that budded, and the tablets of the covenant.
5 (Lev 16:2; Ex 25:17-22; 1Ki 8:6-7) Above the ark were the cherubim of glory
overshadowing the mercy seat. Concerning these things we cannot now speak in
detail.
6 (Nu 28:3) Now when these things were thus ordained, the priests would
regularly go into the first part, conducting the services of God.
7 (Lev 16:34; Ex 30:10) But only the high priest went into the second part
once a year, not without blood, which he offered for himself and for the sins
of the people, committed in ignorance.
8 (Jn 14:6; Heb 3:7) The Holy Spirit was signifying through this that the way
into the Most Holy Place was not yet revealed, because the first part of the
tabernacle was still standing.
9 (Heb 5:1) This is an illustration for the present time, showing that
the gifts and sacrifices offered could not perfect the conscience of those
who worshipped,
10 (Col 2:16; Heb 7:16) since they are concerned only with foods and drinks,
ceremonial cleansings, and fleshly ordinances imposed until the time
of reformation.
11 (Heb 10:1; 2:17) But Christ, when He came as a High Priest of the good
things to come, by a greater and more perfect tabernacle,
not made with hands, that is to say, not of this creation,
12 (Heb 10:4; Da 9:24) neither by the blood of goats and calves,
but by His own blood, He entered the Most Holy Place once for all,
having obtained eternal redemption.
13 For if the blood of bulls and goats, and the ashes of a heifer,
sprinkling the unclean, sanctifies so that the flesh is purified,
14 (1Pe 3:18; Heb 6:1; 10:22) how much more shall the blood of Christ,
who through the eternal Spirit offered Himself without blemish to God,
cleanse your conscience from dead works to serve the living God?
15 (Ro 8:28; 1Ti 2:5) For this reason He is the Mediator of a new covenant,
since a death has occurred for the redemption of the sins that were committed
under the first covenant, so that those who are called might receive
the promise of eternal inheritance.
16 For where there is a will, there must also of necessity be the death
of the testator.
17 (Gal 3:15) For a will has force after men are dead, since it has no force
at all while the testator lives.
18 So not even the first covenant was inaugurated without blood.
19 (Nu 19:6; Heb 9:12) For when Moses had taught every precept to all
the people according to the law, he took the blood of calves and goats,
with water, scarlet wool, and hyssop, and sprinkled both the book
and all the people,
20 (Mt 26:28; Ex 24:8) saying, "This is the blood of the covenant that God
has commanded you to keep."(Ex 19:12-13.)
21 (Lev 8:15; 8:19) Likewise he sprinkled both the tabernacle and all the
vessels of worship with blood.
22 (Lev 17:11) And according to the law almost everything must be cleansed
with blood; without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness.
[1] Then verily the first covenant had also ordinances of divine service,
and a worldly sanctuary.
[2] For there was a tabernacle made; the first, wherein was the candlestick,
and the table, and the shewbread; which is called the sanctuary.
[3] And after the second veil, the tabernacle which is called the Holiest of
all;
[4] Which had the golden censer, and the ark of the covenant overlaid round
about with gold, wherein was the golden pot that had manna, and Aaron's rod
that budded, and the tables of the covenant;
[5] And over it the cherubims of glory shadowing the mercyseat; of which we
cannot now speak particularly.
[6] Now when these things were thus ordained, the priests went always into
the first tabernacle, accomplishing the service of God.
[7] But into the second went the high priest alone once every year, not
without blood, which he offered for himself, and for the errors of the
people:
[8] The Holy Ghost this signifying, that the way into the holiest of all was
not yet made manifest, while as the first tabernacle was yet standing:
[9] Which was a figure for the time then present, in which were offered both
gifts and sacrifices, that could not make him that did the service perfect,
as pertaining to the conscience;
[10] Which stood only in meats and drinks, and divers washings, and carnal
ordinances, imposed on them until the time of reformation.
[11] But Christ being come an high priest of good things to come, by a
greater and more perfect tabernacle, not made with hands, that is to say,
not of this building;
[12] Neither by the blood of goats and calves, but by his own blood he
entered in once into the holy place, having obtained eternal redemption for
us.
[13] For if the blood of bulls and of goats, and the ashes of an heifer
sprinkling the unclean, sanctifieth to the purifying of the flesh:
[14] 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?
[15] And for this cause he is the mediator of the new testament, that by
means of death, for the redemption of the transgressions that were under the
first testament, they which are called might receive the promise of eternal
inheritance.
[16] For where a testament is, there must also of necessity be the death of
the testator.
[17] For a testament is of force after men are dead: otherwise it is of no
strength at all while the testator liveth.
[18] Whereupon neither the first testament was dedicated without blood.
[19] For when Moses had spoken every precept to all the people according to
the law, he took the blood of calves and of goats, with water, and scarlet
wool, and hyssop, and sprinkled both the book, and all the people,
[20] Saying, This is the blood of the testament which God hath enjoined unto
you.
[21] Moreover he sprinkled with blood both the tabernacle, and all the
vessels of the ministry.
[22] And almost all things are by the law purged with blood; and without
shedding of blood is no remission.
Christ's Sacrifice Takes Away Sin
23 (Heb 8:5; 9:24) It was therefore necessary that the replicas of heavenly
things be cleansed with these sacrifices, but that the heavenly things
themselves be cleansed with better sacrifices than these.
24 (Heb 8:2) For Christ did not enter holy places made with hands,
which are patterned after the true one, but into heaven itself,
now to appear in the presence of God for us.
25 (Heb 9:7; 10:19) Nor did He enter to offer Himself often, as the high
priest enters the Most Holy Place every year with blood that is not his own.
26 (Heb 1:2; 7:27) For then He would have had to suffer repeatedly
since the world was created, but now He has appeared once at the end
of the ages to put away sin by sacrificing Himself.
27 (Ge 3:19; 2Co 5:10) As it is appointed for men to die once,
but after this comes the judgment,
28 (Titus 2:13; 1Pe 2:24) so Christ was offered once to bear the sins of many,
and He will appear a second time, not to bear sin but to save those who
eagerly wait for Him.
[23] It was therefore necessary that the patterns of things in the heavens
should be purified with these; but the heavenly things themselves with
better sacrifices than these.
[24] For Christ is not entered into the holy places made with hands, which
are the figures of the true; but into heaven itself, now to appear in the
presence of God for us:
[25] Nor yet that he should offer himself often, as the high priest entereth
into the holy place every year with blood of others;
[26] For then must he often have suffered since the foundation of the world:
but now once in the end of the world hath he appeared to put away sin by the
sacrifice of himself.
[27] And as it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the
judgment:
[28] So Christ was once offered to bear the sins of many; and unto them that
look for him shall he appear the second time without sin unto salvation.
Hebrews 10
1 (Heb 8:5; 9:11) For the law is a shadow of the good things to come,
and not the very image of those things. It could never by the same sacrifices,
which they offer continually year after year, perfect those who draw near.
2 Otherwise, would they not have ceased to be offered, since the worshippers,
once purified, would no longer be conscious of sins?
3 (Heb 9:7) But in those sacrifices there is an annual reminder of sins.
4 (Heb 10:11) For it is not possible for the blood of bulls
and goats to take away sins.
5 (Heb 1:6; Ge 3:15) Therefore, when He came into the world, He said:
"Sacrifices and offerings You did not desire,
but a body You have prepared for Me.
6 In burnt offerings and sacrifices for sin
You have had no pleasure.
7 (Ge 3:15) Then I said, 'See, I have come to do Your will, O God,'
as it is written of Me
in the volume of the book."
8 (Heb 10:5) Previously when He said, "You did not desire sacrifices
and offerings. You have had no pleasure in burnt offerings
and sacrifices for sin,"(Ps 40:6.) which are offered in accordance
with the law,
9 (Heb 10:7) then He said, "See, I have come to do Your will, O God."
(Ps 40:8.) He takes away the first that He may establish the second.
10 (Jn 17:19; Heb 2:11) By this will we have been sanctified through
the offering of the body of Jesus Christ once for all.
11 (Heb 5:1; 10:4) But every priest stands daily ministering and repetitively
offering the same sacrifices, which can never take away sins.
12 (Heb 1:3) But this Man, after He had offered one sacrifice for sins
forever, sat down at the right hand of God.
13 (Heb 1:13; Ps 110:1) Since that time He has been waiting for His enemies
to be made His footstool.
14 (Heb 10:1) For by one offering He has forever perfected
those who are sanctified.
15 (Heb 3:7) The Holy Spirit also witnesses to us about this.
For after saying,
16 (Ro 11:27) "This is the covenant that I will make with them
after those days, says the Lord:
I will put My laws into their hearts,
and in their minds I will write them,"(Jer 31:33.)
17 (Heb 8:12) then He adds,
"Their sins and lawless deeds
will I remember no more."(*Jer 31:34.)
18 Now where there is forgiveness of these,
there is no longer an offering for sin.
[1] For the law having a shadow of good things to come, and not the very
image of the things, can never with those sacrifices which they offered year
by year continually make the comers thereunto perfect.
[2] For then would they not have ceased to be offered? because that the
worshippers once purged should have had no more conscience of sins.
[3] But in those sacrifices there is a remembrance again made of sins every
year.
[4] For it is not possible that the blood of bulls and of goats should take
away sins.
[5] Wherefore when he cometh into the world, he saith, Sacrifice and
offering thou wouldest not, but a body hast thou prepared me:
[6] In burnt offerings and sacrifices for sin thou hast had no pleasure.
[7] Then said I, Lo, I come (in the volume of the book it is written of me,)
to do thy will, O God.
[8] Above when he said, Sacrifice and offering and burnt offerings and
offering for sin thou wouldest not, neither hadst pleasure therein; which
are offered by the law;
[9] Then said he, Lo, I come to do thy will, O God. He taketh away the
first, that he may establish the second.
[10] By the which will we are sanctified through the offering of the body of
Jesus Christ once for all.
[11] And every priest standeth daily ministering and offering oftentimes the
same sacrifices, which can never take away sins:
[12] But this man, after he had offered one sacrifice for sins for ever, sat
down on the right hand of God;
[13] From henceforth expecting till his enemies be made his footstool.
[14] For by one offering he hath perfected for ever them that are
sanctified.
[15] Whereof the Holy Ghost also is a witness to us: for after that he had
said before,
[16] This is the covenant that I will make with them after those days, saith
the Lord, I will put my laws into their hearts, and in their minds will I
write them;
[17] And their sins and iniquities will I remember no more.
[18] Now where remission of these is, there is no more offering for sin.
Exhortation and Warning
19 (Eph 2:18; Heb 4:16) Therefore, brothers, we have confidence to enter
the Most Holy Place by the blood of Jesus,
20 (Heb 9:3; Jn 10:9) by a new and living way that He has opened for us
through the veil, that is to say, His flesh,
21 (Heb 2:17; 1Ti 3:15) and since we have a High Priest over the house
of God,
22 (Eze 36:25; 1Co 6:11; Heb 7:19) let us draw near with a true heart
in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled to cleanse them
from an evil conscience, and our bodies washed with pure water.
23 (1Co 1:9; Heb 3:6) Let us firmly hold the profession of our faith
without wavering, for He who promised is faithful.
24 (Titus 3:8; Heb 13:1) And let us consider how to spur one another
to love and to good works.
25 (Ac 2:42; Heb 3:13) Let us not forsake the assembling of ourselves
together, as is the manner of some, but let us exhort one another,
especially as you see the Day approaching.
26 (Dt 17:12; Heb 6:4-6) For if we willfully continue to sin after
we have received the knowledge of the truth, there no longer remains
a sacrifice for sins,
27 (Isa 26:11; Eze 36:5) but a fearful expectation of judgment and fiery
indignation, which will devour the adversaries.
28 (Heb 2:2; Dt 19:15) Anyone who despised Moses' law died without mercy
in the presence of two or three witnesses.
29 (Eph 4:30; Heb 2:3) How much more severe a punishment do you suppose
he deserves, who has trampled under foot the Son of God, and has regarded
the blood of the covenant that sanctified him to be a common thing,
and has insulted the Spirit of grace?
30 (Dt 32:35-36; Ro 12:19) For we know Him who said, "Vengeance is Mine,"
says the Lord, "I will repay."(Dt 32:35.) And again He says, "The Lord will
judge His people."(Dt 32:36.)
31 (Isa 33:14; Lk 12:5) It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands
of the living God.
32 (Heb 6:4; Php 1:29-30) Remember the former days, after you were
enlightened, in which you endured a great struggle of afflictions.
33 (1Co 4:9; Php 4:14) In part you were made a spectacle both by reproaches
and afflictions. And in part you became companions of those who were so
abused.
34 (1Pe 1:4; 2Ti 1:16) For you had compassion on me in my chains and joyfully
endured the confiscation of your property, knowing that you have in heaven a
better and an enduring possession for yourselves.
35 (Heb 11:26) Therefore do not throw away your confidence, which will be
greatly rewarded.
36 (Lk 21:19; Heb 12:1) For you need patience, so that after you have done
the will of God, you will receive the promise.
37 (Rev 22:20; Isa 26:20) For,
"In yet a little while,
He who is to come will come, and will not wait.
38 (Ro 1:17; Gal 3:11) Now the just shall live by faith;
but if anyone draws back,
My soul shall have no pleasure in him."
39 But we are not of those who draw back to destruction,
but of those who have faith to the saving of the soul.
[19] Having therefore, brethren, boldness to enter into the holiest by the
blood of Jesus,
[20] By a new and living way, which he hath consecrated for us, through the
veil, that is to say, his flesh;
[21] And having an high priest over the house of God;
[22] Let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having
our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience, and our bodies washed with
pure water.
[23] Let us hold fast the profession of our faith without wavering; (for he
is faithful that promised;)
[24] And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works:
[25] Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of
some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day
approaching.
[26] For if we sin wilfully after that we have received the knowledge of the
truth, there remaineth no more sacrifice for sins,
[27] But a certain fearful looking for of judgment and fiery indignation,
which shall devour the adversaries.
[28] He that despised Moses' law died without mercy under two or three
witnesses:
[29] Of how much sorer punishment, suppose ye, shall he be thought worthy,
who hath trodden under foot the Son of God, and hath counted the blood of
the covenant, wherewith he was sanctified, an unholy thing, and hath done
despite unto the Spirit of grace?
[30] For we know him that hath said, Vengeance belongeth unto me, I will
recompense, saith the Lord. And again, The Lord shall judge his people.
[31] It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God.
[32] But call to remembrance the former days, in which, after ye were
illuminated, ye endured a great fight of afflictions;
[33] Partly, whilst ye were made a gazingstock both by reproaches and
afflictions; and partly, whilst ye became companions of them that were so
used.
[34] For ye had compassion of me in my bonds, and took joyfully the spoiling
of your goods, knowing in yourselves that ye have in heaven a better and an
enduring substance.
[35] Cast not away therefore your confidence, which hath great recompence of
reward.
[36] For ye have need of patience, that, after ye have done the will of God,
ye might receive the promise.
[37] For yet a little while, and he that shall come will come, and will not
tarry.
[38] Now the just shall live by faith: but if any man draw back, my soul
shall have no pleasure in him.
[39] But we are not of them who draw back unto perdition; but of them that
believe to the saving of the soul.
2) Our Daily Bread for 16 December 2023 Titled
Community in Christ
Acts 2:38-47
38 (Lk 24:47; Ac 8:12; 22:16) Peter said to them,
"Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ
for the forgiveness of sins, and you shall receive the gift
of the Holy Spirit.
39 (Joel 2:32; Isa 44:3) For the promise is to you, and to your children,
and to all who are far away, as many as the Lord our God will call."
40 (Mt 17:17; Dt 32:5) With many other words he testified and exhorted them,
saying, "Be saved from this perverse generation."
41 (Ac 2:37; 2:47) Then those who gladly received his word were baptized,
and that day about three thousand souls were added to them.
[38] Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in
the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the
gift of the Holy Ghost.
[39] For the promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are
afar off, even as many as the Lord our God shall call.
[40] And with many other words did he testify and exhort, saying, Save
yourselves from this untoward generation.
[41] Then they that gladly received his word were baptized: and the same day
there were added unto them about three thousand souls.
Life Among the Believers
42 (Ac 1:14; 20:7; 2:46) They continued steadfastly in the apostles'
teaching and fellowship, in the breaking of bread and in the prayers.
43 Fear came to every soul. And many wonders and signs were done through
the apostles.
44 (Ac 4:32) All who believed were together and had all things in common.
45 They sold their property and goods and distributed them to all,
according to their need.
46 (Ac 5:42; 20:7) And continuing daily with one mind in the temple,
and breaking bread from house to house, they ate their food with gladness
and simplicity of heart,
47 (Ac 11:24; 2:41) praising God and having favor with all the people.
And the Lord added to the church daily those who were being saved.
[42] And they continued stedfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship,
and in breaking of bread, and in prayers.
[43] And fear came upon every soul: and many wonders and signs were done by
the apostles.
[44] And all that believed were together, and had all things common;
[45] And sold their possessions and goods, and parted them to all men, as
every man had need.
[46] And they, continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking
bread from house to house, did eat their meat with gladness and singleness
of heart,
[47] Praising God, and having favour with all the people. And the Lord added
to the church daily such as should be saved.
In the southern Bahamas lies a small piece of land called Ragged Island. In
the nineteenth century, it had an active salt industry, but because of a
decline in that industry, many people emigrated to nearby islands. In 2016,
when fewer than eighty people lived there, the island featured three religious
denominations, yet the people all gathered together in one place for worship
and fellowship each week. With so few residents, a sense of community was
especially vital for them.
The people of the early church felt a crucial need and desire for community as
well. They were excited about their newfound faith that was made possible by
Jesus' death and resurrection. But they also knew He was no longer physically
with them, so they knew they needed each other. They devoted themselves to the
apostles' teachings, to fellowship, and to sharing Communion together (Acts
2:42). They gathered in homes for worship and meals and cared for others'
needs. The church is described in this way: "All the believers were one in
heart and mind" (4:32). Filled with the Holy Spirit, they praised God
continually and brought the church's needs to Him in prayer.
Community is essential for our growth and support. Don't try to go it alone.
God will develop that sense of community as you share your struggles and joys
with others and draw near to Him together.
By: Anne Cetas
Reflect & Pray
How might you commit to spending time with fellow believers?
Where and when will you do this?
I need You and Your people, God, to help me live the fullest life for You.
3) Daily verses taken from Billy Graham Evangelical Organisation
Words in Season Scripture Memory Tools
Week 5 Rejoice in Grace - Day 7 Break up Your Fallow Ground
Hosea 10:12
12 Sow to yourselves righteousness, reap mercy,
break up your fallow ground; for it is time to seek the Lord,
until He comes and rains righteousness upon you.
12 Sow to yourselves in righteousness, reap in mercy;
break up your fallow ground: for it is time to seek the LORD,
till he come and rain righteousness upon you.
When a farmer prepares to plant his crop, a great deal of preparation
is necessary before the seen can be sown. He has to plow up the ground,
turning under the stubble from the previous harvest, harrow the field to
break up the clods, and fertilise- readying the soil for optimum growth.
A fallow field, one that was not planted the previous season, must be
broken and worked so that the seed can find root in the ground.
The Bible likens spiritual growth to raising crops. God is the one
who brings rain and gives growth, but the success or failure
of the seed - both in initial salvation and in ongoing maturity -
is often linked to how well the soil has been prepared.
That preparation isn't always a pleasant or rewarding process.
We may resist the plowing or harrowing that comes through
the Holy Spirit's conviction of sin. We may need to dig up boulders
of bitterness and thistles of anger; we may have to plow under the
stubble of the last crop of lessons, working that mulch deep into our lives.
But the final outcome is worth the effort - even the pain - that
preparation brings. Broken up, harrowed, readied for the seed of God's Word,
we are rich and fertile ground, and the seed of righteousness produces
an abundant crop in us.
Application
a) In what ways have I been "broken up" and "harrowed" by the Holy
Spirit to prepare me for God's work in me?
b) How can I apply these verses to myself? How can I
"sow in righteousness," "reap in mercy," "break up my fallow ground"?
4) From Prosperity Promises - Kenneth Copeland
Exodus 3:7-8
7 (Ps 106:44; Ex 2:23-25)The Lord said,
"I have surely seen the affliction of My people who are in Egypt
and have heard their cry on account of their taskmasters,
for I know their sorrows.
8 (Ge 50:24; 15:18-21; Ex 13:5) Therefore, I have come down
to deliver them out of the hand of the Egyptians,
and to bring them up out of that land to a good and spacious land,
to a land flowing with milk and honey, to the place of
the Canaanites, the Hittites, the Amorites, the Perizzites,
the Hivites, and the Jebusites."
7 And the LORD said, I have surely seen the affliction of my people
which are in Egypt, and have heard their cry by reason of their taskmasters;
for I know their sorrows;
8 and I am come down to deliver them out of the hand
of the Egyptians, and to bring them up out of that land unto a good land and
a large, unto a land flowing with milk and honey; unto the place of the
Canaanites, and the Hittites, and the Amorites, and the Perizzites,
and the Hivites, and the Jebusites.
5) From a Book called God's Promises for you:
When you are lonely
PSALMS 23
A Psalm of David.
1 The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.
2 (Ps 63:1; 84:2) He makes me lie down in green pastures;
He leads me beside still waters.
3 (Ps 79:10; 80:5) He restores my soul;
He leads me in paths of righteousness
for His name's sake.
4 (Isa 30:29; Ps 62:8) Even though I walk
through the valley of the shadow of death,
I will fear no evil;
for You are with me;
Your rod and Your staff,
they comfort me.
5 (Ps 42:11; 43:5) You prepare a table before me
in the presence of my enemies;
You anoint my head with oil;
my cup runs over.
6 (2Sa 17:22; Dt 3:8-9) Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me
all the days of my life,
and I will dwell in the house of the Lord
forever.
Psalm 23
A Psalm of David.
1 The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want.
2 He maketh me to lie down in green pastures:
He leadeth me beside the still waters.
3 He restoreth my soul:
He leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake.
4 Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death,
I will fear no evil:
for thou art with me; Thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.
5 Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies:
Thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over.
6 Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life:
And I will dwell in the house of the LORD for ever.
Remember God's promises when You pray
The Lord's prayer
Matthew 6:9-13
9 "Therefore pray in this manner:
Our Father who is in heaven,
hallowed be Your name.
10 (Mt 3:2; 4:17) Your kingdom come;
Your will be done
on earth, as it is in heaven.
11 (Pr 30:8; Isa 33:16) Give us this day our daily bread.
12 (Ex 34:7; Ps 32:1) And forgive us our debts,
as we forgive our debtors.
13 (1Co 10:13; Jn 17:15) And lead us not into temptation,
but deliver us from evil.
For Yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen."
9 After this manner therefore pray ye:
Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name.
10 Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.
11 Give us this day our daily bread.
12 And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors.
13 And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil:
For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen.
6) This come from Praying for Muslims in Canada 2015 (Is there a 2023 edition?)
The Northern Territories of Canada
Yukon
Yukon Total population (2015) 36500 Muslim (est) 69
In Whitehorse the Muslim population grew from 2 families
in 2001 to more than 60 people in 2014. Originally meeting in a church,
they now meet for prayer service in a former office space.
Pray for Muslims and believers in Whitehorse to come together,
and for Muslims to find faith in Jesus Christ.
Northwest Territories (NWT)
NWT population (2015) 43600 Muslim (est) 473
The Muslim community of Yellowknife has grown from 275 to 330 un the past year.
To replace their inadequate facility, they are planning a C$2 to C$2.5 million
Islamic Centre.
Pray that the Muslims in Yellowknife and all of the NWT will awaken to
spiritual hunger and be open to saving faith in Jesus Christ.
Nunavut (NU)
NU total population (2015) 36600 Muslim (est) 86
The Islamic Centre of Iqaluit now claim about 100 Muslims and have surpassed
80 % of their funding goal to building the first mosque in this territory.
Their stated goal is "To spread the message of Islam
in the far northern reaches of Canada."
Pray that believers in Iqaluit take up Jesus' command to love and reach
their Muslim neighbours with the Gospel.
Adding further
30 days of prayer for the Muslim World 24 April to 23 May 2020
Under the Keep Praying page
When the new moon is sighted it marks the beginning of t he new Islamic month
and Eid al-Fitr, the "Festival of Breaking the Fast", will start! After 30 days
of fasting, the Eid celebration at the end of Ramadan is a joyful time that
usually lasts about 3 days. Muslims will buy new clothes, exchange gifts and,
of course, enjoy special foods. In Muslim-majority nations, the streets may be
decorated and festivals will be held.
For many Muslims, Eid-al-Fitr begins with communal prayers at daybreak and the
distribution of money (zakat) to the poor, which is one of the 5 pillars of
Islam.
You can greet Muslim friends during this time by saying "Eid Mubarak",
which means Blessed Eid!"
Ramadan is over for this year, but you can continue to pray for Muslims you
know, and Muslims around the world:
- Despite the unsettling developments in our world today that involve actions
in the name of Islam, there is at the same time a largely untold story about
unprecedented movement to Christ among Muslims. There have been more such
movements of thousands or more new disciples among Muslims in the last three
decades or so than in all the previous history of Christian Muslim
relationships! Pray for this momentum to continue.
Acts 2:12-17 : 17 12 They were all amazed and perplexed, saying to each other,
"What does this mean?"
13 (1Co 14:23) Others mocking said, "These men are full of new wine."
Peter's Speech at Pentecost
14 (Ac 1:26) But Peter, standing up with the eleven, lifted up his voice
and said to them, "Men of Judea and all you who dwell in Jerusalem,
let this be known to you, and listen to my words.
15 For these are not drunk, as you suppose,
since it is the third hour of the day.
16 But this is what was spoken by the prophet Joel:
17 (Isa 44:3; Ac 10:45) 'In the last days it shall be,' says God,
'that I will pour out My Spirit on all flesh;
your sons and your daughters shall prophesy,
your young men shall see visions,
and your old men shall dream dreams.'
- Pray for Christian workers an organisations focused on seeing effective
discipleship movements among Muslim people.
- Ask the Holy Spirit to continue to inspire you to have god's heart for
Muslims, to see them as He does, and to be the light that then to Jesus.
Matthew 5:14-15 : 14 "You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a
hill cannot be hidden. 15 Neither do men light a candle and put it under
a basket, but on a candlestick. And it gives light to all who are in the
house."
Ideas for prayer
- Pray for opportunities to show the love of Christ to Muslims around you
- Pray for, and offer generous hospitality to, those you know who are serving
Christ among Muslim people -
Romans 12:13 "contribute to the needs of the saints, practice hospitality."
- When you gather with fellow believers, remember to pray for Muslims
throughout the year and encourage them to also participate in 30 Days!
My paternal side is of Muslim heritage and will offer this section to further
call for Muslim converts to Christian and any other converts to Christianity
(Hindus, Jews, aboriginals Canadian, atheists, secular humanists, ...)
7) Prayers for the nation (Canada) coming from Prayer map of Canada
http://www.ehc.ca
16th Day of the Month
a) Pray that God will convict the hearts of Canadians of the false
idea that all moral choices are equal and without consequences
( John 16:7-8
7 "Nevertheless I tell you the truth: It is expedient for you that I go away.
For if I do not go away, the Counselor will not come to you.
But if I go, I will send Him to you.
8 When He comes, He will convict the world of sin
and of righteousness and of judgment"
7 Nevertheless I tell you the truth; It is expedient for you that I go away:
for if I go not away, the Comforter will not come unto you;
but if I depart, I will send him unto you.
8 And when he is come, he will reprove the world of sin,
and of righteousness, and of judgment:
)
b) Pray that people's hearts would be opened to see the folly
of denying God's supremacy
(
John 14:6
6 Jesus said to him,
"I am the way, the truth, and the life.
No one comes to the Father except through Me."
6 Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life:
no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.
Rom 3:19-20
19 Now we know that whatever the law says,
it says to those who are under the law,
so that every mouth may be silenced,
and all the world may become accountable to God.
20 Therefore by the works of the law
no flesh will be justified in His sight,
for through the law comes the knowledge of sin.
19 Now we know that what things soever the law saith, it saith to them who are
under the law: that every mouth may be stopped, and all the world may become
guilty before God.
20 Therefore by the deeds of the law there shall no flesh be justified
in his sight: for by the law is the knowledge of sin.
2 Cor 5:10
10 For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ,
that each one may receive his recompense in the body,
according to what he has done,
whether it was good or bad.
10 For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ; that every one
may receive the things done in his body, according to that he hath done,
whether it be good or bad.
2 Cor 10:5
5 casting down imaginations and every high thing
that exalts itself against the knowledge of God,
bringing every thought into
captivity to the obedience of Christ,
5 casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against
the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought
to the obedience of Christ;
)
Advent Day 21
From C. S. Lewis A Grand Miracle
[The Queen of Narnia] "'isn't a real queen at all,' answered Lucy.
'She is a horrible White Witch She has made an enchantment
over the whole country so that it is always winter here and never Christmas.'
'I wonder if there's any point in going on,' said Susan....
'What about just going home?'" - C. S. Lewis
(Read this and more in The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, p. 56.)
Always Winter and Never Christmas
Always winter and never Christmas. Nothing could be more depressing.
Continual anticipation of celebration, gift-giving, and wonderful music,
but never arriving at the promise. Advent is exciting, but a perpetual
Advent season would drag on. In Narnia, it had been winter for a hundred
years, but Christmas never arrived. The white witch had bound Narnia
in ice and snow. The winter weather contained the promise,
but not the reality of Christmas. Without the breaking of her
enchantment, Christmas would never come.
Lucy had been the first to enter Narnia. Her words from The Lion,
the Witch and the Wardrobe repeat what she has heard: always
winter and never Christmas. But in that phrase there lies a promise.
Some day it will be Christmas! Asian is on the move! The lion is coming.
He will defeat the witch. The wardrobe will prove to be a gateway
to the fulfillment of a promise. Evil has its limits. One day we will celebrate.
And so Asian came, and the ice and snow began to melt. Eventually,
the witch's power melted as surely as the ice and snow had.
Since the first promise of a Savior and the first declaration of a final
Day of the Lord, much time has passed. The promise remains valid,
because "a day is like a thousand years, and a thousand years are like a day"
with the Lord (2 Peter 3:8). He has come, and he is coming again.
God, give us the patience to trust your promises. Amen.
8 (Ps 90:4) But, beloved, do not be ignorant of this one thing,
that with the Lord one day is as a thousand years, and a thousand years
as one day.
9 (1Ti 2:4; Hab 2:3; Heb 10:37) The Lord is not slow concerning His promise,
as some count slowness. But He is patient with us, because He does not want
any to perish, but all to come to repentance.
2 Peter 3:8-9
From Follow The Story by Marva J. Dawn
SATURDAY, THIRD WEEK OF ADVENT
The Lord God
68 "Blessed be the Lord God of Israel,...
-Luke 1:68a
I have taken the liberty of capitalizing the entire name LORD
(here and in earlier meditations) because it seems most likely
that the speakers utilized the Aramaic version of the original
Hebrew word we translate "Jehovah" or "Yahweh." In English we employ
the all-capitalized word rather than Lord, which renders the Hebrew
name Adonai or "Sovereign One." LORD means the "Covenant One,"
so you might want to watch for its occurrences in the First Testament
and note each time the choice of that assuring/fulfilling name.
Here Zechariah blesses Israel's Promising God because he had scrutinised
his people positively and reclaimed them after all the times in their
history they had gone astray.
Zechariah's son John would have a great part in a future restoration
(Luke 1:15b-16).
Do we need a more favourable view of the First
(rather than "Old" or, as some think, "Outdated") Testament?
To see all the grace that is implied by LORD might
be an excellent starting point.
Prayer
The immensity of your grace, LORD, dazzles us! Amen.
Read Luke 1:67-68.
67 His father Zechariah was filled with the Holy Spirit
and prophesied, saying,
68 "Blessed be the Lord God of Israel,
for He has visited and redeemed His people,
From the Ah-Has of Advent by Rich Bimler
THIRD SATURDAY
AH-HA! Ambassadors of Health, Hope and ATTRIBUTES!
How beautiful upon the mountains
are the feet of him who brings good news,
who proclaims peace,
who brings good news of happiness,
who proclaims salvation,
who says to Zion,
"Your God reigns!"ISAIAH 52:7
Today's Scripture outlines some of the Advent AH-HAs of attributes
of those who share the good news of Christmas . .. and beyond. How
beautiful are the feet of the messengers who bring peace and hope to
a troubled world! And then we are even encouraged to "break forth in
singing," another great attribute given to us to use to glorify the Lords
Think of some of the AH-HA attributes that you are sharing with others. Go
ahead. no need to be a "shucks, I don't have much" kind of person. We
all have been blessed with so many gifts, and I do not mean those lying
under your tree.
As an experiment, try this; Write down or think of six words you would use
to describe your Advent journey of faith. This idea evolved from a book
entitled Not Quite What I was Planning: Six-Word Memoirs by Writers
Famous card Obscure in which people summed up their lives in six
words. One comic wrote, "Well,l thought it was funny." Ernest Hemingway
wrote, "For sale, baby shoes, never worn." Folks from Chicago might write,
'Cubbies--just wait until next year!" A former math teacher of mine would
have said. "l never could count well!'
Some quick attributes of Advent for me an: "He came to give us life."o r
Everything in the name of Jesus." or "The Word Made Flesh among us.'
Share your attributes as gifts to others.
Lord. thanks for giving us gifts to announce your birth, death
and resurrection to others. Keep us creative, constant, consistent
and Christ-like. In Jesus' name, Amen ... and AH-HA!
Read Isaiah 52:7-10.
7 (Isa 40:9; Na 1:15; Ps 93:1) How beautiful upon the mountains
are the feet of him who brings good news,
who proclaims peace,
who brings good news of happiness,
who proclaims salvation,
who says to Zion,
"Your God reigns!"
8 (Isa 62:6; 1Co 13:12) Your watchmen lift up their voices;
they sing joyfully together;
for they shall see with their own eyes
when the Lord brings Zion back.
9 (Isa 51:3; 48:20) Break forth into joy, sing together,
you waste places of Jerusalem.
For the Lord has comforted His people;
He has redeemed Jerusalem.
10 (Isa 51:9; Lk 3:6) The Lord has bared His holy arm
in the eyes of all the nations,
and all the ends of the earth shall see
the salvation of our God.
From On Eagle's wings Day 21
Answering the Call by Maureen Clayton (Methodist)
On Eagles Wings Bible Camp and Office Volunteer
Carnforth, England
And it came to pass, as the angels were gone away from them
into heaven, the shepherds said one to another, Let us now
go... Luke 2:15, KJV
Before COVID, I spent many years volunteering at an
orphanage and school in Africa. But after my seventieth
birthday I started to believe I was too old to be used by the
Lord. I feared I had nothing left to offer.
One day in my personal devotions, the following words leapt
off the page: "get your bags ready for something different." I
was uncertain what this meant. England was still in lockdown!
There was no host of angels, but my heart recognized God had
spoken and I needed to be prepared for God's plan.
Shortly afterwards, I was invited to go to Inuvik and
Tuktoyaktuk with On Eagle's Wings. Although apprehensive,
I went. I was deeply impacted when one little girl said, "I love
God and I love you guys too." Then I knew my presence in the
North had been a blessing.
The shepherds, ordinary people, were an integral part of the
Jesus story. No matter our age, education, country, or
economic status, we can participate in God’s redemptive story
if we are willing to recognize and follow his voice.
Conclusion:
Pray to the Lord and pray to Him to have spiritual meat and not milk
and to Him who can save your soul.
Pray to the Lord: "I need You and Your people, God, to help me live
the fullest life for You."
Pray to the Lord and pray for the Lord to work in You to break up Fallow
Ground.
Pray to the Lord and pray to know Him as He who hears to prayers of the
oppressed.
Pray to the Lord and pray to know as the One who can see you through
dangerous times.
Pray for Muslims and believers in Whitehorse and the Yukon to come together,
and for Muslims to find faith in Jesus Christ.
Pray for Muslims and believers in Yellowknife to come together,
and for Muslims to find faith in Jesus Christ.
Pray that believers in Iqaluit take up Jesus' command to love and reach
their Muslim neighbours with the Gospel.
- Pray for opportunities to show the love of Christ to Muslims around you
- Pray for, and offer generous hospitality to, those you know who are serving
Christ among Muslim people -
Romans 12:13 "contribute to the needs of the saints, practice hospitality."
- When you gather with fellow believers, remember to pray for Muslims
throughout the year and encourage them to also participate in 30 Days!
Pray that God will convict the hearts of Canadians of the false
idea that all moral choices are equal and without consequences
Pray that people's hearts would be opened to see the folly
of denying God's supremacy
God, give us the patience to trust your promises. Amen.
Pray: The immensity of your grace, LORD, dazzles us! Amen.
Pray: Lord. thanks for giving us gifts to announce your birth, death
and resurrection to others. Keep us creative, constant, consistent
and Christ-like. In Jesus' name, Amen ... and AH-HA!
Pray:Thank you, Heavenly Father, for using ordinary people in
extra ordinary ways to bring your Kingdom to earth.
Pray that those following false ideologies will be open to the Gospel in Iran.
Pray to the Lord that to know the Holy Spirit.
and Seek ye first the Kingdom of God and His Righteousness.
Remember eternity starts now -
Pray for the direction you take to the Ever lasting loving God.