Devotional, Devotion, Prophecy, Bible Study, Bible discussion, End of Days, End Times, Enter Ministry, Underground Church, Church, Fellowship, Tribulation, Salvation, Ordained, Love, Heaven, Miracles
Author: Michael Young, Sr.
I am a practicing Christian, a disciple of Jesus, a husband of over 50 years, a father and a grandfather, a business man, a veteran and a friend to all who will have me.
I have served or am serving, at various times, as an Evangelist, a Pulpit fill pastor, an Associate Pastor of Evangelism and as Senior Pastor of a church plant. My passion is for practicing and teaching the Bible, building small groups, reaching the lost with the message of the Gospel of Jesus, recovering the straying Sheep of God and the gathering together the Called of God, in neighborhoods, business settings and in churches by equipping other Christians.
I have authored a few small books and I have a background in professional business management, finance and investments.
I am glad to meet you, even if it is virtually. Write me at any time and let's become friends.
God’s “called out ones”, that is those people who believe in, follow and are called out of the world’s system and ways, called out from “living in darkness to living in God’s Light”, called out from impure living to holy living, called out of Satan’s kingdom into God’s Kingdom, called out from the sinfulness of humanity for honorable use by God.
Those who worship and glorify God, build up the unity of the fellowship, learn through teaching and discipleship. Those who actively evangelize and serve with compassion and proclaim the Kingdom of God, who are being transformed and sanctified by the word of God, equipping others for eternity.
Those who make disciples, glorify Christ, build up the saints of God, worship in community, serve God and represent His justice.
Then, shouldn’t (The Church), be the same as,
, The Purpose of the Church, and , The Mission of the Church?
These are the
Of The Church
So, what would you call a large group of people who are loving, and who show unselfish concern for other; people who are joyful and show an inner peace; people who are patient, and show not only the ability to wait, they wait with kindness, people who are good, faithful, and gentle, showing great self-control?
People who show a loving attitude and behavior that allows them to endure with patience and serenity; a people showing a love that is kind and thoughtful, that is not jealous or envious; a people showing a kind of love does not brag and is not proud or arrogant. People who are not rude; not self-seeking, not provoked nor are overly sensitive and not easily angered; People with a loving attitude that does not take into account a wrong endured. They do not rejoice at injustice, but rejoice with the truth when right and truth prevail.
People with a love toward others that bears all things regardless of what comes upon them, believes all things, that is looking for the best in each person, hopes all things, remaining steadfast during difficult times, and endures all things without weakening. People with a love that never fails, never fades and never ends.
Then the sum is that The Church which exists to glorify God, disciple believers, proclaim the message of salvation, demonstrate compassion, and uphold the truth of Scripture. Grounded in the consistent testimony of Scripture, the church continues to stand as a radiant beacon of faith and hope to the world, pointing all people to a loving Creator and the resurrected Redeemer.
Thus, the Church is a dynamic and ongoing endeavor, rooted in the teachings of Scripture and empowered by the Holy Spirit. It encompasses evangelism, discipleship, worship, community service, and social justice, all aimed at glorifying God and advancing His kingdom on earth. Through faithful obedience to this mission, the Church fulfills its calling as the body of Christ, bearing witness to the transformative power of the Gospel.
Now, let’s be honest and frank with ourselves: Is this what you find when you “go to church”?
Is this what you practice when you “go to church”?
If not, then something is terribly wrong with our own equation of Church, and please dear friends, you and I may just need to do or re-do the math. These A, B, Cs should equal Church.
Overview of Dispensationalism and Covenant Theology
Dispensationalism and covenant theology are two different frameworks for interpreting the Bible.
Dispensationalism emphasizes distinct periods in God’s plan for humanity, viewing Israel and the church as separate entities, while
Covenant Theology sees a unified plan of salvation through covenants, viewing the church as the continuation of Israel’s promises.(see Wikipedia and puritanboard.com).
Dispensationalism and Covenant Theology are two distinct frameworks for interpreting the Bible, particularly regarding God’s relationship with humanity.
Dispensationalism
Definition: A theological system that divides history into different “dispensations” or periods where God interacts with humanity in various ways.
Key Features:
Two Peoples of God: Distinguishes between Israel and the Church, each with separate destinies.
Historical Divisions: Classic dispensationalism typically identifies seven dispensations, while modern forms may simplify this.
Israel’s Role: Views Israel as an ethnic group with specific promises, while the Church is seen as a new entity with distinct blessings.
Eschatology: Emphasizes a future, literal fulfillment of promises to Israel, including a millennial kingdom.
Covenant Theology
Definition: A theological framework that sees the Bible as a unified story of God’s covenantal relationship with humanity.
Key Features:
One People of God: Believes in a single people of God throughout history, with the Church as the continuation of and with Israel.
Covenants: Focuses on a series of covenants (e.g., Covenant of Works, Covenant of Grace) that reveal God’s redemptive plan.
Fulfillment in Christ: Sees the promises made to Israel fulfilled in Jesus, with the Church inheriting spiritual blessings.
Eschatology: Generally views the fulfillment of God’s promises as spiritual rather than strictly physical or national.
Comparison Table
Aspect
Dispensationalism
Covenant Theology
View of History
Divided into distinct dispensations
Unified narrative through covenants
People of God
Israel and Church are separate
One people of God (Israel and Church)
Eschatology
Literal future promises to Israel
Spiritual fulfillment in Christ
Covenant Understanding
Less emphasis on covenants
Central to understanding God’s plan
These theological perspectives offer different interpretations of Scripture and the nature of God’s promises, shaping the beliefs and practices of their adherents. (see Dispensational_and_Covenant_Theologies.pdf ).
WHAT IS COVENANT THEOLOGY
Understanding how God works out His purposes throughout the timeline of history helps believers to develop a worldview for living in harmony with His will. Having a divine perspective on the past, present, and future helps us to know what God expects of us in this present day and age. Scholars have called this area of study a philosophy of history. Although the Bible is not a philosophy of history per se, Scripture does help us to understand how God is working throughout the annals of time.
Theologians have developed two distinct approaches to understanding the philosophy of history as it is depicted in God’s Word. Those two systems are known as Dispensationalism and Covenant Theology.
Covenant Theology can be stated briefly as a system which understands the philosophy of history based on theological covenants. Covenant Theologians depict all of history as being covered by two or three theological covenants. The covenant of works, the covenant of grace, and (sometimes) the covenant of redemption is used to explain all relationships between God and man from the beginning of creation to the end of time. Since the foundation of Covenant Theology is based on two or three covenants that cannot be found in Scripture, we need to examine these theological covenants.
WHAT IS DISPENSATIONAL THEOLOGY
Briefly stated, we could say that Dispensationalism represents all Scripture and history as being covered by several dispensations of God’s rule.
Dispensationalism is built upon the foundation of consistent, literal interpretation. Literal interpretation means taking God’s Word at face value. Therefore, literal interpretation also results in recognizing distinctions in the Bible. No interpreter of Scripture denies the fact that there are distinctions in Scripture. However, the extent to which one recognizes distinctions is the evidence of his consistent use of the principle of literal interpretation. Taking the Word of God at face value means the recognition of distinctions in Scripture. Distinctions in Scripture naturally leads to dispensations.
The Seven Dispensations
Most normative dispensationalists understand the Bible to be organized by these 7 dispensations. Each dispensation begins with God giving man a specific responsibility. Each one ends in failure as man disobeys the responsibility that was given to Him. As a result, man is judged because of his failure.
Innocence (Genesis 1:1-3:6)
Conscience (Genesis 3:7-8:14)
Human Government (Genesis 8:15-11:9)
Promise (Genesis 11:10-Exodus 18:27)
Law (Exodus 19:1-Acts 1:26)
Grace (Acts 2:1-Revelation 20:3)
The Millennial Kingdom (Revelation 20:4-20:15)
Okay, okay, okay. Enough already! So, how does this affect you or me, and how should it direct us, that is our Christian thought as it relates to salvation, and as it develops into our behavior? Does it give us a standard for conduct, for witnessing, for believing, for the foundations of faith in Jesus? Does it or should it affect our view of God, the Trinity, humankind, how we are to be prepared for the return of Jesus?
The major idea or question I should take away from this is, How does this affect the outcome of my life and my eternity, and will I be ready for Jesus return?
I cannot affect or change whether history has occurred in dispensations or according to God’s Covenants. I cannot alter the eschatological timelines. I cannot change God’s fixed timing of the beginning of the final seven years of the Great Tribulation. I can only prepare myself, now, for what is to come – and that, only according to what Jesus has said and by what the Bible tells me.
Read and study keywords in the language it was written; discover the intention of the author who penned the subject matter; find the context of the matters-at-hand by searching throughout the Bible; understand the differences between a literal face-value-reading of scriptures, the use of similes, metaphors and parables and then read and accept what the Bible says at its face value.
My personal take on these matters?
The sometimes stark and important differences between dispensationalism and covenant theology leads me to believe neither is completely correct and neither is completely incorrect. So, I choose to believe:
There are distinct periods in God’s plan for humanity, viewing Israel and the church as separate entities, while at the same time seeing a unified plan of salvation through covenants, viewing the church, (Christians), as having been grafted into the family, the Elect of God, and is therefore the completion and the continuation of God’s promises. It is not replacement theology, (supersessionism), but completion theology, (the fulfillment of God’s Plan, Purpose and Promises).
Although, due to denominationalism, Dispensationalism and Covenant Theology are considered as two vastly distinct frameworks for interpreting the Bible, particularly regarding God’s relationship with humanity, and may have differing paths to follow, they have a common destiny.
Israel as an ethnic group has specific promises, and while the Church is seen as a new entity with distinct blessings, both become one in Christ in the end.
There is a future, literal fulfillment of promises for all believers, including a millennial kingdom.
All believers comprise a single people of God throughout history, with the Church as the continuation of Israel.
There are a series of covenants (e.g., Covenant of Works, Covenant of Grace) that reveal God’s redemptive plan.
The promises made to Israel fulfilled in Jesus, with the Church inheriting spiritual blessings.
So, I find some helpful and useful direction in both Dispensationalism and in Covenant Theology which inform me about my responsibility to Christ to follow Him and to obey Him regardless of our positioning on His eschatological timetable – and I find confusion from both.
But here is what I do see in the Bible – chapter upon chapter, verse upon verse (please click this link):
The Lord’s Supper, Jesus Washes the Disciple’s feet, Jesus Predicts His Betrayal
There is no coincidence in the timing of these events taking place just before the Feast of the Passover – a significant Jewish festival commemorating the Israelites’ deliverance from Egyptian slavery, as described in Exodus 12. This event is central to Jewish identity and religious practice, involving the sacrifice of a lamb and the eating of unleavened bread. This highlights the connection between Jesus as the Lamb of God and the sacrificial lamb of Passover. The setting underscores the impending sacrifice of Jesus, aligning with the prophetic symbolism of the Passover lamb.
It is sad to say, but as twenty-first century believers, having read and heard the words of this chapter preached so often that we can lose our amazement and wonder that the One Who is calling Himself the Messiah, the Christ, having performed so many miracles and having fulfilled so many of the Messianic prophesies to this point, is now explaining that He is set to step out of this natural realm, and into the wonders and powers of the Kingdom of Heaven and to be seated at the Right Hand of the Father! Put another way, if Jesus time and activities on this earth were not enough to convince even the hardest of hearts, He will now do something that has never even entered the mind of any person. He is saying that He will be crucified and die for the sins of this world; be buried and lie in the grave for three days; He will come back to life and, once again, walk among the living and then will rise from the earth, into the heavens in the sight of many. (see Acts 1:1-5, 9-11).
Let’s read, meditate, pray and be amazed once again!
The Lord’s Supper
John 13:1,Now before the Feast of the Passover, Jesus, knowing that His hour had come that He would depart from this world to the Father, having loved His own who were in the world, He loved them to the end.
(Commentary Break): The final sacrifice for sins is now forecast by the Sacrificial Lamb Himself. Imagine, if you can, that Jesus knows that He is going to suffer crucifixion as a man and that all the sins of the entire world will be put on him; as God, that He will ascend from and transcend this natural world and return to a reality not made or created but on which is eternally pre-existent, the Kingdom of Heaven; and that He will be seated at the Right Hand of God the Father, interceding for us until He brings us to the home He has prepared for us.
Secondly, the phrase “having loved His own who were in the world, He loved them to the end” should give us pause. This is the same love that He commanded us to show our Christian brothers and sisters, and I would hope it would provoke us to spend time in prayer and study at how Jesus interacted with and treated His disciples. We may then stop being confused by the world’s definition of “love” will then come to know what true love looks like – a balance between an unconditional selfless, and sacrificial love. (agape), and a love that is met with loving reverential obedience (see John 14;15). (End Commentary Break).
Verse 2. And during supper, the devil having already put into the heart of Judas Iscariot, the son of Simon, to betray Him, verse 3, Jesus, knowing that the Father had handed all things over to Him, and that He had come forth from God and was going back to God, verse 4, got up from supper and laid His outer garments aside; and He took a towel and tied it around Himself.
Jesus Washes the Disciples’ Feet
Verse 5. Then He poured water into the basin, and began washing the disciples’ feet and wiping them with the towel which He had tied around Himself. Verse 6. So He came to Simon Peter. He said to Him, “Lord, You are washing my feet?” Verse 7. Jesus answered and said to him, “What I am doing, you do not realize right now, but you will understand later.” Verse 8. Peter said to Him, “Never shall You wash my feet!” Jesus answered him, “If I do not wash you, you have no place with Me.” Verse 9. Simon Peter said to Him, “Lord, then wash not only my feet, but also my hands and my head!” Verse 10. Jesus said to him, “He who has bathed needs only to wash his feet; otherwise he is completely clean. And you are clean — but not all of you.” Verse 11. For He knew the one who was betraying Him; it was for this reason that He said, “Not all of you are clean.”
Verse 12. Then, when He had washed their feet, and taken His garments and reclined at the table again, He said to them, “Do you know what I have done for you? Verse 13. You call Me ‘Teacher’ and ‘Lord’; and you are correct, for so I am. Verse 14. So if I, the Lord and the Teacher, washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another’s feet. Verse 15. For I gave you an example, so that you also would do just as I did for you. Verse 16. Truly, truly I say to you, a slave is not greater than his master, nor is one who is sent greater than the one who sent him. Verse 17. If you know these things, you are blessed if you do them.
(Commentary Break): The washing of feet in the postmodern church is widely misunderstood and misrepresented – and is often used as a means of manipulation.
Biblically, it symbolizes purification and the need for spiritual cleansing, pointing to the greater cleansing that Jesus would accomplish through His death and resurrection. This act also prefigures the humility and sacrifice that Jesus would demonstrate on the cross. Peter’s reaction is a reminder of the human tendency to resist divine plans that challenge our expectations.
Jesus, the Master and Teacher, models humility by performing a servant’s task. As followers of Christ, we are called to lead by serving others, regardless of our position.
Peter’s initial resistance to Jesus washing his feet reflects a common struggle to understand God’s ways. We must trust in Jesus’ actions and teachings, even when they challenge our expectations.
The act of foot washing symbolizes the need for spiritual cleansing. As believers, we must regularly seek forgiveness and purification from sin.
Jesus’ example calls us to embrace servanthood in our daily lives, serving others with love and humility as an expression of our faith.
Peter’s interaction with Jesus teaches us to be open to correction and growth in our spiritual journey, allowing Jesus to transform our understanding and actions. (End Commentary Break).
Verse 18. I am not speaking about all of you. I know the ones whom I have chosen; but this is happening so that the Scripture may be fulfilled, ‘HE WHO EATS MY BREAD HAS LIFTED UP HIS HEEL AGAINST ME.’ Verse 19. From now on I am telling you before it happens, so that when it does happen, you may believe that I am He. Verse 20. Truly, truly I say to you, the one who receives anyone I send, receives Me; and the one who receives Me receives Him who sent Me.”
(Commentary Break): Here, Jesus asserts His divine knowledge and authority in choosing His disciples. This choice is not merely about selection for ministry but also encompasses the foreknowledge of their actions and destinies. Theologically, this reflects the doctrine of divine election, where God’s choices are purposeful and sovereign. It also reassures the faithful disciples of their secure place in His plan.
This is a direct reference to Psalm 41:9, where David laments betrayal by a close friend. In the cultural context, sharing bread was a sign of fellowship and trust, making the act of betrayal even more poignant. The phrase “lifted up his heel” suggests an act of treachery and hostility. By applying this scripture to Judas, Jesus identifies Himself with the suffering servant motif and foreshadows His impending betrayal, linking His experience to the broader narrative of redemptive history.
We should be mindful that receiving Jesus’ messengers is equated with receiving Jesus Himself. This reflects the intimate connection between Christ and His followers, as well as the unity of the body of Christ. It underscores the idea that the acceptance of the gospel message is tantamount to accepting Christ personally, a theme echoed in Matthew 10:40.
This reinforces the personal relationship between the believer and Jesus. It suggests that faith in Christ is not merely an intellectual assent but involves a personal acceptance and relationship. This is consistent with the emphasis on abiding in Christ (see John 15:4-5). This also emphasizes and establishes the direct link between the acceptance of Jesus and the acceptance of God, highlighting the unity of the Father and the Son and those whom He has called. This connection is central to understanding the nature of Jesus’ ministry and the divine plan of salvation. (End Commentary Break).
Jesus Predicts His Betrayal
Verse 21. When Jesus had said these things, He became troubled in spirit, and testified and said, “Truly, truly I say to you that one of you will betray Me.”
(Commentary Break): It is interesting that although Jesus is fully aware of the coming events, “He became troubled in spirit” as he testified “Truly, truly I say to you that one of you will betray Me.” The phrase indicates Jesus’ deep emotional distress. This mirrors other moments in the Gospels where Jesus experiences human emotions, such as in the Garden of Gethsemane. Whether His distress emanates from disappointment of betrayal by a trusted disciple, or from the coming suffering and death He will face, it highlights His dual nature as fully God and fully man. The Greek word used here, “tarassō,” conveys a sense of agitation and turmoil, emphasizing the weight of the impending betrayal. A similar distress is often felt by those serving God and even for the same or similar events, but we can take some measure of comfort by rejecting the shame of failure see that our Lord has walked this path before us. (End Commentary Break).
Verse 22. The disciples began looking at one another, at a loss to know of which one He was speaking. Verse 23. Lying back on Jesus’ chest was one of His disciples, whom Jesus loved. Verse 24. So Simon Peter nodded to this disciple and said to him, “Tell us who it is of whom He is speaking.” Verse 25. He then simply leaned back on Jesus’ chest and said to Him, “Lord, who is it?” Verse 26. Jesus then answered, “That man is the one for whom I shall dip the piece of bread and give it to him.” So when He had dipped the piece of bread, He took and gave it to Judas, the son of Simon Iscariot. Verse 27. After this, Satan then entered him. Therefore Jesus said to him, “What you are doing, do it quickly.” Verse 28. Now none of those reclining at the table knew for what purpose He had said this to him. Verse 29. For some were assuming, since Judas kept the money box, that Jesus was saying to him, “Buy the things we need for the feast”; or else, that he was to give something to the poor. Verse 30. So after receiving the piece of bread, he left immediately; and it was night.
(Commentary Break): These verses speak for themselves. They are reminiscent of a modern mystery novel, but this is no novel and it certainly is not fiction. It does tell us however, that even some of those who are seen as walking with Jesus, spending their time with His disciples, may not be one of His. In these Last Days, we are told that there will be a rise of false teachers and false prophets, an increase in deception and great apostasy. We may not always be able to tell who is a true follower and disciple of Jesus except perhaps by their fruit. Even in cases that require church discipline, we are to approach the matter with caution and great patience. And when uncertain, we are told to keep our eyes and hearts fixed on Jesus, and to leave it to the Lord to sort out the wheat from the tares. (End Commentary Break).
Verse 31. Therefore when he had left, Jesus said, “Now is the Son of Man glorified, and God is glorified in Him; verse 32, if God is glorified in Him, God will also glorify Him in Himself, and will glorify Him immediately. Verse 33. Little children, I am still with you a little longer. You will look for Me; and just as I said to the Jews, now I also say to you: ‘Where I am going, you cannot come.’ Verse 34. I am giving you a new commandment, that you love one another; just as I have loved you, that you also love one another. Verse 35. By this all people will know that you are My disciples: if you have love for one another.”
(Commentary Break): Again, this requires a good understanding of what true gapáō love means. It is “to prefer, to love; for the believer, preferring to “live through Christ” (1 John 4:9,10), i.e. embracing God’s Will, choosing His choices and obeying them through His power. Agapáō preeminently refers to what God prefers as He “is love” (1 John 4:8,16). (See agapē).
With the believer, agapáō, (to love), means actively doing what the Lord prefers, with Him and by His power and direction). True agapáō, (“loving”), is always defined by God. It is a “discriminating affection which involves choice and selection” (1 John 4:8,16,17), it is Christ living His life through the believer. (End Commentary Break).
Verse 36. Simon Peter said to Him, “Lord, where are You going?” Jesus answered, “Where I am going, you cannot follow Me now; but you will follow later.” Verse 37. Peter said to Him, “Lord, why can I not follow You right now? I will lay down my life for You.” Verse 38. Jesus replied, “Will you lay down your life for Me? Truly, truly I say to you, a rooster will not crow until you deny Me three times. (End Chapter 13).
It is as Jesus has said, all true believers and followers of Jesus will follow Him later. We must stay on the alert and be on guard that we do not become complacent or arrogant saying “I will lay my life down for you, Jesus”, for I do not know if my testing may cause me to deny Him at some point. But I do know that if I continue to follow Him, doing the very things He has commanded us to be doing, I will be kept humbled and dependent on Him and in His strength and not dependent on my own ways.
Genesis 6:1-4, Now it came about, when mankind began to multiply on the face of the land, and daughters were born to them, that the sons of God saw that the daughters of mankind were beautiful (or good); and they took wives for themselves, whomever they chose.Then the Lord said, “My Spirit will not remain with man forever (or rule in; or strive with), because he is also flesh (or, in his going astray, he is flesh); nevertheless (or, therefore) his days shall be 120 years.” The Nephilim (or, the fallen ones) were on the earth in those days, and also afterward, when the sons of God came in to the daughters of mankind, and they bore children to them. Those were the mighty men who were of old, men of renown.
Dr. Chuck Missler discusses the Nephilim as beings linked to UFO phenomena and explores their biblical significance, suggesting they may have a disturbing agenda for Earth. He emphasizes the relevance of these topics in contemporary discussions about extraterrestrial life and biblical prophecy.
This subject has not gone away. On the contrary, much new evidence has surfaced with global implications. Chuck explores the Biblical relevance and disturbing agenda of the apparent extraterrestrial life forms that have been forcing themselves into our global consciousness, and reveals their most disturbing agenda.
“For there shall arise false Christs, and false prophets, and shall shew great signs and wonders; insomuch that, if it were possible, they shall deceive the very elect.” (Matthew 24:24)
If this is true – and more and more evidence is suggesting it is true – what happens to your view of the Bible and your view of God? (You and I really need to get ahead of this – NOW!)
(I was taking notes on this subject as a means for me to explore and understand why I and others are feeling so restless about Church. Then, I decided to turn it into an article. So, I would ask, why do you go to church? And, do you feel you are completing the Great Commission in your life and experience?).
Acts 2:42 could be considered a purpose statement for the church: “They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer.” According to this verse, the purposes/activities of the church should be 1) teaching biblical doctrine, 2) providing a place of fellowship for believers, 3) observing the Lord’s supper, and 4) praying. (GotQuestions.Org). The Apostle Paul gave an excellent illustration to the believers in Corinth. The church is God’s hands, mouth, and feet in this world—the body of Christ (1 Corinthians 12:12-27). We are to be doing the things that Jesus Christ would do if He were here physically on the earth. The church is to be “Christian,” “Christ-like,” and Christ-following.
The purpose of the Church is deeply rooted in God’s plan of redemption and ongoing work in the world:
Spiritual Worship and Glorification of God. (BibleHum.com).
In sum, the church exists to glorify God, disciple believers, proclaim the message of salvation, demonstrate compassion, and uphold the truth of Scripture. Historical, archaeological, and manuscript findings reinforce that the earliest believers actively embraced these purposes, laying the foundation for the church’s ongoing mission. Grounded in the consistent testimony of Scripture, the church continues to stand as a radiant beacon of faith and hope to the world, pointing all people to a loving Creator and the resurrected Redeemer. (BibleHub.com).
The Mission of the Church
The mission of the church is to make disciples. (GotQuestions.Org).
The mission of the church is to glorify Christ. (GotQuestions.Org).
The mission of the church is to build up the saints. (GotQuestions.Org).
Conclusion: The mission of the Church is a dynamic and ongoing endeavor, rooted in the teachings of Scripture and empowered by the Holy Spirit. It encompasses evangelism, discipleship, worship, community, service, and social justice, all aimed at glorifying God and advancing His kingdom on earth. Through faithful obedience to this mission, the Church fulfills its calling as the body of Christ, bearing witness to the transformative power of the Gospel.
Interestingly enough, however, here are the top 10 reasons on “Why I Attend Church”, given by Americans who attend religious services at least once a month, according to a Pew Research survey. Respondents were allowed to give more than one reason. The percentage refers to people who said this was a “very important” reason for their decision:
To become closer to God. (81%)
So their children will have a moral foundation. (69%)
To become a better person. (68%)
For comfort in times of trouble or sorrow. (66%)
They find the sermons valuable. (59%)
To be part of a faith community. (57%)
To continue their family’s religious traditions. (37%)
They feel a necessary obligation to go. (31%)
To meet new people or socialize. (19%)
Because the pastor knows my name. (added by author.)
Is the Church in a conundrum here? Are people going to church for the ‘Right Reasons’? (And, just as interesting, people stop going to church if they do not get what is on the list of 10 reasons they came to church in the first place – or because the music is too loud or too contemporary; the sermons are too long, the seats are uncomfortable, etc.)
And conversely, are churches following the Biblical model and mandate of the Mission and Purpose of the Church?
No matter the source you turn to for the answer, Pew Research, Barna Research, The Heritage Foundation, Gallup, etcetera, the answer is the same. The Church is adrift from God’s Biblically stated Mission and Purpose, pandering to the wishes and wants of the spiritually hungry in order to draw a crowd (for the cash?).
2 Timothy 4:3-4 warned this day was coming, “For the time will come when they will not tolerate sound doctrine; but wanting to have their ears tickled, they will accumulate for themselves teachers in accordance with their own desires, and they will turn their ears away from the truth and will turn aside to myths”.
How can we, or should we, get back to the basics? If so, we should start from ‘the ground up’. How did it all get started?
It could be said that the forerunner of the Christian church was the Tabernacle also known as the Tent of the Congregation or the Tent of the Meeting. It was the portable earthly dwelling of God used by the Israelites from the Exodus until the conquest of Canaan. Moses was instructed at Mount Sinai to construct and transport the tabernacle with the Israelites on their journey through the wilderness and their subsequent conquest of the Promised Land. After 440 years, Solomon’s Temple in Jerusalem superseded it as the dwelling-place of God (also see The Tabernacle, Learn Religions).
The Tabernacle was an outward expression of an inward confession and conviction. The Lord spoke to Moses and to Aaron after the Israelite fled captivity in Egypt, and gave them explicit instructions on setting up their wilderness camp. Numbers 2 consists entirely of God giving commandments as to how the Israelite camp should be arranged. From the NASB:
On the east, toward the sunrise, the divisions of the camp of Judah are to encamp under their standard. The tribe of Issachar will camp next to them. The tribe of Zebulun will be next. All the men assigned to the camp of Judah, according to their divisions, number 186,400. They will set out first. (The rest of the tribes are described).
So the Israelites did everything the Lord commanded Moses; that is the way they encamped under their standards, and that is the way they set out, each of them with their clan and family.
If you want to read more about the significance and the symbolism of the Tabernacle and the of Holies, click here: The Tabernacle, or here, Explore the Tabernacle.
Why does the Bible record all the things that happened during those 40 years? The Scripture tells us it was for an example, a foreshadowing. These things happened to them for our admonition. Paul makes a point in 1 Corinthians 10:11 that everything written then is for our application now. Every one of the events in Numbers has a lesson for us. And that’s why it is so important to study this book in detail.
The word ”example” in Greek is ‘tupos’, which is ”a figure, an image, a pattern, a pre-figuring.” That’s where we get the term ”type,” or model. Engineers speak of a prototype, which is from the same root. Types are common in the Bible, where some event, some object, or some situation is a lesson, in advance, of what’s coming. Once again, the Tabernacle and the wilderness camp was an outward expression of an inward conviction and confession.
The center of the Tabernacle was the Holy of Holies, the Holy Place, the outer chamber, which was surrounded first by priests of the tribe of Levi, then by the clan or tribes of Israel, the warriors and their families. It is easy to imagine the layers of protection provided from the outer to the innermost, the Holy of Holies. Possibly a pattern for the Christian’s human psyche and even the intent for the Christian church. But with the coming of Christ, the outermost is the Church Body or the Body of Christ. The courtyard resembles the priestly duties of spiritual gifts at work of each and every Christian. The Holy are of the Tabernacle is accessible by those who are fully dedicated in prayer and service to God through Christ Jesus and the Holy of Holies is the presence of God within each believer.
Should we, today, model and build our church buildings in such a fashion? Probably not. Jesus removed the barriers and indwells the believer. We are now One with Him.
However, it is worthy to note that the early church met in homes as reflected in Acts 2:37-42, 46-47, “Brothers, what are we to do?”Peter said to them, “Repent, and each of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins; and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. For the promise is for you and your children and for all who are far away, as many as the Lord our God will call to Himself.” And with many other words he solemnly testified and kept on urging them, saying, “Be saved from this perverse generation!” So then, those who had received his word were baptized; and that day and that day there were added about three thousand souls.
They were continually devoting themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer.
Verse 46. Day by day continuing with one mind in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, they were taking their [ax]meals together with gladness and sincerity of heart, praising God and having favor with all the people. And the Lord was adding to their number day by day those who were being saved.
Then, shortly after the establishment of the Christian Church things began to change. Partly due to convenience and partly due to influences outside the church. Sacred Christian architecture in the West, in particular Western Europe, was being influenced by a variety of architectural styles that initially derived from Roman pagan designs to new forms that attempted to break away from Roman influences. Christian church architecture indicates the cultural influences on Christianity but also reflected men’s spiritual ideas dominant in the period churches were built.
After 313 AD, as Christianity became accepted by the Roman government under Constantine, early churches were beginning to be established in Western Europe and the Roman Empire. By this point, churches had already existed throughout the Sassanian Empire and Armenia, but had yet to be established, at least formally, in the Roman Empire. Initially, late Roman Empire churches often utilized converted pagan temples, as these were readily available structures that could accommodate many people. It was also convenient to use existing worship areas for the masses that had converted – this too, was and is an outward expression of an inward belief and conviction and confession. The drift to apostasy had begun!
There are many today that will say that the style, appearance or type of building is irrelevant. A building is just a “tool for ministry”. And, I might agree. But I am not referring to architecture. I am referring to intent and priorities. Is it our intention to follow the teachings and of Jesus and the Bible and to pay close attention to the significance of the meanings contained in the symbolism of the Tabernacle and of the Temple, or are we willing to go our own way in order to draw a crowd? Well, it isn’t working for the ‘mainline’ protestant churches in the twenty-first century, and this drift did not begin in the twenty-first century. It began shortly after the establishment of the early Church. Today we see the fruit of our arrogance.
Let me begin by saying that I know very few will have read this. I also know that I have little to no influence on the church or on those who lead and formulate policy for the church. So, why bother? Am I just ranting? Perhaps. But like the man who would stroll the beach after the tides would recede, picking up starfish, one at a time, tossing them back into the water. When asked why he would bother since thousands and thousands are stranded, dying on the beach, he picked up one more and said, it means something to this one. So it is with me.
We need to let our faith in Christ, and our understanding and belief in The Word, be expressed – pressed out – our expression, conviction and confession.
The Holy of Holies in the Tabernacle, should be expressed by how we speak, how we deport ourselves, how we live and how we treat others. It is Christ in us, our hope of glory, on display.
The outer courts and where we invite and receive those who are drawn to Christ, where we proclaim the Gospel message and make disciples. This work takes place both outside and inside the Temple.
Although the architecture of modern-day church buildings may differ from the Tabernacle and the Temple, and the spiritual significance and symbolisms have been fulfilled with the coming of the Christ Jesus. It remains true that our beliefs and faith are expressed within the Church – be it a building, a program or a person. All of these things should not conform to the world, but must be transformed by the renewing of our minds so the we may prove what is the will of God, that which is good, acceptable and perfect! Or do you not know that your body is a templeoftheHolySpirit within you?
In conclusion, we should allow the Holy of Holies to influence, guide, direct and establish our ways. It should be ‘from the inside to the outside’. Every act and service of our worship is a result of our focus on the Holy of Holies, from the Holy places, to our priesthood as believers, to our encampment around our Tabernacles, through our inner courts, outer courts and into this world. Anything and everything else, is just a sideshow.
Your Brother and Friend,
Mike Young
PS:Examples of sideshows: Easter bunnies and egg hunts at church. Halloween at church disguised as Fall festivals – they are a copy of paganism and witchcraft. Christmas parties at church focused on materialism. There are times allotted for these things in the world, but not in the sanctuary, not in the Church. Remember, the Church is an Expression of what you and I really and truly believe, and the world is watching and all-to-often, scoffing and mocking.
Did God actually say, “Those who bless Israel, I will bless, and those who curse Israel, I will curse.”?
Yes and no. Let me explain.
Genesis 12:1-2 actually says,Now the Lord said to Abram, (who was later renamed as Abraham), “Go from your country and your kindred and your father’s house to the land that I will show you. And I will make of you a great nation, and I will bless you and make your name great, so that you will be a blessing.”
Then, Genesis 12:3 actually says, “I will bless those who bless you (referring to Abram, a.k.a., Abraham), and him who dishonors you (that is, Abram, a.k.a., Abraham) I will curse, and in you (referring to Abram, a.k.a., Abraham), all the families of the earth shall be blessed.”
God said He would bless those who would bless Abram (who is also known as Abraham). It could be said that since Jacob was later renamed Israel, that Genesis 12:3 may have been referring to the nation of Israel.
This should lead us to ask who, or which, would God have us bless? Abraham? Jacob? Or, the nation of Israel? And in which of these are we to be blessed?
Read the prophetic verse from Hosea 11:1, to find the answer: “When Israelwas a child, I loved him, and out of Egypt I called my son.”
The meaning of “When Israel was a child”:
This phrase refers to the early stages of the nation of Israel, particularly during the time of the patriarchs and the Exodus. The imagery of Israel as a child highlights the nation’s infancy and dependence on God. In biblical context, this period includes the covenant with Abraham and the formative experiences of the Israelites in Egypt. The metaphor of a child is used to emphasize innocence and the nurturing relationship God had with Israel.
The meaning of “I loved him”:
God’s love for Israel is a central theme throughout the Old Testament. This love is covenantal, rooted in the promises made to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. It is an unconditional love that persists despite Israel’s frequent disobedience. The love mentioned here is not just emotional, but also involves God’s actions in history, such as delivering Israel from slavery and guiding them through the wilderness.
The meaning of “and out of Egypt I called My son”:
This phrase directly references the Exodus, when God delivered the Israelites from slavery in Egypt. It is a foundational event in Israel’s history, symbolizing liberation and the beginning of their identity as God’s chosen people.
The term “My son” signifies a special relationship, echoing the language used in Exodus 4:22-23, where God calls Israel His firstborn son. This phrase is also seen as a typological prophecy, later applied to Jesus Christ in Matthew 2:15, where it is fulfilled in the return of Jesus from Egypt, drawing a parallel between Israel’s history and the life of Christ.
Matthew 2:14-15, “And he rose and took the child and his mother by night and departed to Egypt, and they stayed there until Herod’s death. This fulfilled what the Lord had spoken through the prophet: “I called my Son out of Egypt.”
The meaning of “This fulfilled what the Lord had spoken through the prophet”:
This phrase emphasizes the fulfillment of prophecy, a common theme in Matthew’s Gospel, which seeks to demonstrate that Jesus is the promised Messiah. The use of prophecy here underscores the divine orchestration of events, showing that Jesus’ life was in accordance with God’s predetermined plan. The reference to prophecy also serves to connect Jesus’ story with the larger narrative of Israel’s history. (BibleHub.com).
The meaning of “Out of Egypt I called My Son.”:
This quotation is from Hosea 11:1, originally referring to Israel’s exodus from Egypt. In the context of Matthew, it is typologically applied to Jesus, drawing a parallel between Israel as God’s “son” and Jesus as the ultimate fulfillment of this role. This typology highlights Jesus as the true Israel, who embodies and completes the mission that Israel was meant to fulfill. The calling “out of Egypt” signifies deliverance and the beginning of a new covenant, with Jesus as the central figure in God’s redemptive plan. (BibleHub.com).
Although Jacob was named “Israel”; and although Israel was the name of the Nation of the Jews; In these prophetic verses, “Israel” is referring to the coming Christ, Jesus.
The Abrahamic Covenant, in which God promises Abraham that “all peoples on earth will be blessed through you” (Genesis 12:3), is ultimately fulfilled in Jesus, a descendant of Abraham, who brings salvation to all nations.
Thus:
“I will bless those who bless you (referring to Jesus the Christ), and him who dishonors you (referring to Jesus the Christ), I will curse; And in You, (Jesus the Christ), all the families of the earth shall be blessed.”
We can learn that by putting verses into a personal biased view, or by taking one verse out of context can lead to differing and incomplete conclusions which can bring division, disagreement, strife and even conflict. (see “Is Israel today the Israel of the Bible?”).
Politics will not save you and will not save America.
There are pastors, evangelists and Bible teachers who openly and blatantly preach politics from their pulpils and their perches. But, that is not our fight. The Bible clearly teaches that “There is no authority except from God, and those which exist are established by God” (see Romans 13:1), and “we are to submit ourselves for the Lord’s sake, to every human institution, to a king as the one in authority, or to governors as ones sent by Him for the punishment of evildoers and the praise of those who do right”. (see 1 Peter 2:13-14). Preach the Bible becuase the Bible defines our politics.
Weapons of war will not save you and will not save America.
Jesus clearly teaches that, “They who live by the sword will perish by the sword”. (see Matthew 26:52). “But our fight is not against flesh and blood, but against rulers, against the powers, against the world forces of this darkness, against the spritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places”.(see Ephesians 6:12).
Going off-grid, storing up food stuffs, water, medicines, ammo, seeds and raising animals will not save you and will not save America.
“He will give His angels orders concerning You’; and ‘On their hands they will lift You up, so that You do not strike Your foot against a stone.’” (see Matthew 4:6 and Psalm 91:11).
“Do not worry then, saying, ‘What are we to eat?’ or ‘What are we to drink?’ or ‘What are we to wear for clothing?’For the Gentiles eagerly seek all these things; for your heavenly Father knows that you need all these things.But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be provided to you.” (see Matthew 6:31-33).
SO, WHAT ARE WE TO DO?
Pray? Yes, pray. And by the way, there are many Christians who are claiming 2 Chronicles 7:14, which says “If My people who are called by My Name, will humble themselves and pray, and seek My Face, and turn from their wicked ways, I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land”, thinking it will be effective in saving America. This is a worthy prayer, but this instruction to pray was specifically spoken to Solomon and for the people of Israel for that specific time.
It is not that God cannot or will not hear this prayer today, and show pity or mercy. But, our world and our nation is at another specific place and time on God’s eschatological clock. We are in the Last Days as described by Jesus and the Apostles Paul, John, Peter and the disciple, Timothy. (see “Did They Really Say This?”)
Concerning these matters;
Jesus warns that we are now in that day – the day of His Return and the commencement of the Great Tribulation, also known as the Great and Terrible Day of the Lord and the Wrath of the Lamb, distinctive from “the tribulation birth pains” as described by Jesus in Matthew 24:4-14. The “tribulation birth pains” are the first five tribulation seals: false christs, wars and rumors of war, nations rising against nations, famines and earthquakes. Then will come an increase in martyrdom, apostasy, divisions within the church, a rise of false prophets, an increase in lawlessness and hatreds. Following this, between the Fifth tribulation seal and the breaking of the Sixth Tribulation Seal, and the sun will be darkened, the moon will fade and turn dark red, and there will be astronomical calamities as “the stars fall from the skies”. Then the “Son of Man”, (Jesus), will appear in the clouds and every eye will see Him and will mourn. Then comes the Trumpet blast, and the angels will gather His elect from all four corners of the earth and from one end of the sky to the other which marks the commencement of the Great Tribulation, also known as the Great and Terrible Day of the Lord and the Wrath of the Lamb and the final Seven Years of Great Tribulation (the final two tribulation seals, the Seven Tribulation Trumpets and the Seven Tribulation Bowls).
Before these things occur, Jesus warns that we are to:
Learn,
Prepare, and
Stay ready!
LEARN: (see Matthew chapter 24:32-35). We are to learn from the parable of the fig tree, saying,
“Now learn the parable from the fig tree: as soon as the as soon as the fig tree’s branch has become tender and sprouts its leaves,
you know that summer is near; so you too, when you see all these things, recognize that He is near, right at the door.
(see Matthew 24:3-14 for Jesus’ example ofthe ‘fig tree’s branch’ , “Tell us, when will these things happen, and what will be the sign of Your coming, and of the end of the age?” And Jesus answered and said to them, “For many will come in My name, saying, ‘I am the Christ,’ and they will mislead many people. And you will be hearing of wars and rumors of wars. See that you are not alarmed, for those things must take place, but that is not yet the end. For nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom, and there will be famines and earthquakes in various places. But all these things are merely the beginning of birth pains.(This is Jesus’ reference to ‘the summer is near’ when these thing happen ), Then they will hand you over to tribulation and kill you, and you will be hated by all nations because of My name. 10And at that time many will fall away, and they will betray one another and hate one another, and many false prophets will rise up and mislead many people. And because lawlessness is increased, most people’s love will become cold. But the one who endures to the end is the one who will be saved. (This is the reference to(He is near, right at the door) This gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in the whole world as a testimony to all the nations, and then the end will come. Truly I say to you, this generation will not pass away until all these things take place. (Heaven and earth will pass away, but My words will not pass away.)
“About that day and hour no one knows, not even the angels of heaven, nor the Son, but the Father alone. For the coming of the Son of Man will be just like the days of Noah”
(see Genesis 6:5-8, (This is Jesus’ reference to (just like the days of Noah ) Then the LORD saw that the wickedness of mankind was great on the earth, and that every intent of the thoughts of their hearts was only evil continually. So the LORD was sorry that He had made mankind on the earth, and He was grieved in His heart. Then the LORD said, “I will wipe out mankind whom I have created from the face of the land; mankind, and animals as well, and crawling things, and the birds of the sky. For I am sorry that I have made them.”)
For as in those days before the flood they were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, until the day that Noah entered the ark, and they did not understand until the flood came and took them all away; so will the coming of the Son of Man be. At that time there will be two men in the field; one will be taken and one will be left.Two women will be grinding at the mill;one will be taken and one will be left. (see Matthew 24:29-31,“But immediately after the tribulation of those days THE SUN WILL BE DARKENED, AND THE MOON WILL NOT GIVE ITS LIGHT, AND THE STARS WILL FALL from the sky, and the powers of the heavens will be shaken. And then the sign of the Son of Man will appear in the sky, and then all the tribes of the earth will mourn, and they will see the SON OF MAN COMING ON THE CLOUDS OF THE SKY with power and great glory. And He will send forth His angels with A GREAT TRUMPET BLAST,(This is Jesus reference toone will be taken and one will be left ), and THEY WILL GATHER TOGETHER His elect from the four winds, from one end of the sky to the other.)
PREPARE: (see Matthew 24:42-51),
“Therefore be on the alert, for you do not know which day your Lord is coming. But be sure of this, that if the head of the house (The “head of the house” represents individuals responsible for their spiritual well-being of his family, those under his care and tutelage and those within his or her sphere of influence), had known at what time of the night the thief was coming, he would have been on the alert and would not have allowed his house (The “house” symbolizes one’s life or spiritual state. Allowing it to be “broken into” suggests a failure to guard against spiritual complacency or sin. This imagery reinforces the need for spiritual alertness and moral integrity), to be broken into.
STAY READY: (see Matthew 24:44-51).
For this reason you must be ready as well (The call to readiness is a central theme in Jesus’ teachings about the end times. This readiness involves living a life of faithfulness and obedience, reflecting the values of the Kingdom of God. The imperative “must be ready” suggests an ongoing state of preparedness, not a one-time action); for the Son of Man is coming at an hour when you do not think He will.
“Who then is the faithful and sensible slave whom his master put in charge of his household slaves (The master represents Jesus Christ, who entrusts His followers with responsibilities. The household can be seen as the Church or the community of believers. This reflects the biblical principle of stewardship, where believers are entrusted with the care and management of God’s resources and people), to give them their food at the proper time? Blessed is that slave whom his master finds so doing when he comes.
Truly I say to you that he will put him in charge of all his possessions. But if that evil slave says in his heart, ‘My master is not coming for a long time,’ and he begins to beat his fellow slaves, and he eats and drinks with those habitually drunk; then the master of that slave will come on a day that he does not expect, and at an hour that he does not know, and he will cut him in two and assign him a place with the hypocrites; in that place there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.”
SO, WHAT ARE WE TO BE DOING, NOW?
(Jesus demonstrated His Deity – So we would demonstrate our Discipleship)
HIS DEITY
Jesus says, “The one who has seen Me has seen the Father” (John 14:9, NASB).
Jesus says, “I and the Father are one.” (John 10:30, NASB).
The Bible says, “Jesus is the radiance of the glory of God and the exact imprint of his nature, and he upholds the universe by the word of his power.” (Hebrews 1:3, ESV).
Jesus says, “Even though you do not believe Me, believe the works, so that you may know and understand that the Father is in Me, and I in the Father.” (John 10:38, NASB).
OUR DISCIPLESHIP
Jesus says, “If you abide in my Word, you are truly My disciples” (John 8:31).
Jesus says, “Go therefore, and make disciples” (Matthew 28:19).
What The Bible says we are to be doing in “Last Days”*: “Be strong in the Lord and mighty in His power. Put on the full armor of God, so that you will be able to stand strong against the schemes of the devil. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the powers, against the world forces of this darkness, against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places.”
“With every prayer and request, pray at all times in the Spirit, and with this in view, be alert with all perseverance and every request for all the saints.” (see Ephesians 6:10-18).
Dear Friends and fellow disciples, please, let’s be careful that we are not lulled into a sense of complacency. These mighty words from the book of Ephesians are not just metaphors, they are clear instructions that only His elect, His disciples can fully understand, and that only by the power of the Holy Spirit. This is the way spoken to us by the Breath of God. Listen. Learn. Prepare. The day is now at hand.
The “last days” refer to a period in Christian eschatology that begins with the life and ministry of Jesus Christ and extends until his second coming. This time is characterized by significant events and changes in society, often associated with themes of judgment, redemption, and the fulfillment of biblical prophecies.
Definition of the Last Days
The term “last days” refers to a significant period in Christian eschatology, marking the time from Christ’s ascension to His second coming. This period is characterized by various prophetic events and societal changes.
Key Features of the Last Days
Biblical Context
Start: The last days began with the life and ministry of Jesus Christ.
Duration: This period encompasses the entire history of the church until Christ returns.
Characteristics of Society
Difficult Times: The last days are described as perilous, with societal challenges such as moral decay and conflict.
Prophetic Signs: Events like wars, famines, and cultural shifts are often interpreted as signs of the approaching end.
Theological Perspectives
Abrahamic Religions
Judaism: Refers to the “end of days,” focusing on themes of redemption and the coming of the Messiah.
Christianity: Emphasizes the return of Christ and the fulfillment of God’s promises.
Paul in Thessalonica, Berea, and Athens, The Sermon on Mars Hill
This chapter could largely be seen as a narration of the Apostle Paul’s missionary travels through sections of Greece. But a deeper look reveals Paul and Silas’ motivations which should be an example of our motivations today.
For those who are willing to put aside denominational spin on quasi-doctrinal teachings on eschatology, and are willing to study the Bible using good study methods, using face-value readings where applicable and staying within the context of the entire Bible on the subject, you can see that the Acts of the Apostles gives us instructions for the Last Days – that is, the days in which we are now living. (see Are We Living in The Last Days articles).
Paul in Thessalonica
Acts 17:1, Now when they, (Paul and Silas), had traveled through Amphipolis and Apollonia, they came to Thessalonica, where there was a synagogue of the Jews. Verse 2. And according to Paul’s custom, he visited them, and for three Sabbaths reasoned with them from the Scriptures, verse 3. explaining and giving evidence that the Christ had to suffer and rise from the dead, and saying, “This Jesus whom I am proclaiming to you is the Christ.” Verse 4. And some of them were persuaded and joined Paul and Silas, along with a large number of the God-fearing Greeks and a significant number of the leading women. Verse 5. But the Jews, becoming jealous and taking along some wicked men from the marketplace, formed a mob and set the city in an uproar; and they attacked the house of Jason and were seeking to bring them out to the people. Verse 6. When they did not find them, they began dragging Jason and some brothers before the city authorities, shouting, “These men who have upset the world have come here also; Verse 7. and Jason has welcomed them, and they all act contrary to the decrees of Caesar, saying that there is another king, Jesus.” Verse 8. They stirred up the crowd and the city authorities who heard these things. Verse 9. And when they had received a pledge from Jason and the others, they released them.
(Commentary Break):(You can use this link to follow Paul’s missionary journey on a power point presentation while you read and listen to this commentary). Paul’s custom while on his missionary journeys was to visit local synagogues to tell of the Messiah, which was a risky proposition. Imagine going to local churches in our day and doing the same thing – assuming you are telling the same message as Paul! Some might agree, some might believe, but many would take great offense and you would, like Paul, ‘create a great uproar’. This was the method then, and considering we are in the Last Days, it should be the pattern for us, as well.
Let me say, that considering the current-day apostasy in many church denominations today, and the scriptural ignorance and Biblical errancy in even in most of the reformed churches, that if you preach and teach the words of Jesus and of the Apostles in most churches, you will most likely be considered a trouble maker, if not a heretic or at the very least a religious pariah. But preach it and teach it we must. (End Commentary Break).
Paul in Berea
Verse 10. The brothers immediately sent Paul and Silas away by night to Berea, and when they arrived, they went into the synagogue of the Jews. Verse 11. Now these people were more noble-minded than those in Thessalonica, for they received the word with great eagerness, examining the Scriptures daily to see whether these things were so. Verse 12. Therefore, many of them believed, along with a significant number of prominent Greek women and men. Verse 13. But when the Jews of Thessalonica found out that the word of God had been proclaimed by Paul in Berea also, they came there as well, agitating and stirring up the crowds. Verse 14. Then immediately the brothers sent Paul out to go as far as the sea; and Silas and Timothy remained there. Verse 15. Now those who escorted Paul brought him as far as Athens; and receiving a command for Silas and Timothy to come to him as soon as possible, they left.
Paul in Athens
Verse 16. Now while Paul was waiting for them in Athens, his spirit was being provoked within him as he observed that the city was full of idols. Verse 17. So he was reasoning in the synagogue with the Jews and the God-fearing Gentiles, and in the marketplace every day with those who happened to be present. Verse 18. And some of the Epicurean and Stoic philosophers as well were conversing with him. Some were saying, “What could this scavenger of tidbits want to say?” Others, “He seems to be a proclaimer of strange deities,”—because he was preaching Jesus and the resurrection. Verse 19. And they took him and brought him to the Areopagus, saying, “May we know what this new teaching is which you are proclaiming? Verse 20. For you are bringing some strange things to our ears; so we want to know what these things mean.” Verse 21. (Now all the Athenians and the strangers visiting there used to spend their time in nothing other than telling or hearing something new.)
(Commentary Break): “Paul’s spirit was being provoked within him as he observed that the city was full of idols. So he was reasoning in the synagogue…” We live in a different century, in a much different world. But one thing that has remained the same is that “our cities are full of idols”. But, is the spirit within you provoked? Are you reasoning in the churches? Listen, dear friends, you don’t need to be ‘an Apostle Paul’ to follow this example. Scriptures admonish us to call the false teacher, the wolves, the ignorant and the errant teachers out, to flee from them and to warn others. Don’t be confused. Don’t be misled. Know the Word. Proclaim and teach the Word, rebuke, correct train of others in righteousness. This, as Christians, disciples of Jesus, is our mandate and our calling in these days. (End Commentary Break).
Sermon on Mars Hill
Verse 22. So Paul stood in the midst of the Areopagus and said, “Men of Athens, I see that you are very religious in all respects. Verse 23. For while I was passing through and examining the objects of your worship, I also found an altar with this inscription, ‘TO AN UNKNOWN GOD.’ Therefore, what you worship in ignorance, this I proclaim to you. Verse 24. The God who made the world and everything that is in it, since He is Lord of heaven and earth, does not dwell in temples made by hands; verse 25, nor is He served by human hands, as though He needed anything, since He Himself gives to all people life and breath and all things; verse 26, and He made from one man every nation of mankind to live on all the face of the earth, having determined their appointed times and the boundaries of their habitation, verse 27, that they would seek God, if perhaps they might feel around for Him and find Him, though He is not far from each one of us; verse 28, for in Him we live and move and exist, as even some of your own poets have said, ‘For we also are His descendants.’ Verse 29. Therefore, since we are the descendants of God, we ought not to think that the Divine Nature is like gold or silver or stone, an image formed by human skill and thought. Verse 30. So having overlooked the times of ignorance, God is now proclaiming to mankind that all people everywhere are to repent, verse 31, because He has set a day on which He will judge the world in righteousness through a Man whom He has appointed, having furnished proof to all people by raising Him from the dead.”
(Commentary Break): We should memorize verses 22 through 31 and understand them thoroughly so we can preach them. In fact, if you do nothing else today, pray and memorize these verses and quote them often, both in season and out; in the church and outside the church. (End Commentary Break).
Verse 32. Now when they heard of the resurrection of the dead, some began to scoff, but others said, “We shall hear from you again concerning this.” Verse 33. So Paul went out from among them. Verse 34. But some men joined him and believed, among whom also were Dionysius the Areopagite and a woman named Damaris, and others with them. (End Chapter 17 text).
Just as verses 32 through 34 tell us, many will scoff, some will ask to hear it again, but some will believe and others with them.
I am going to make a contemporary remark as of this date, November 5, 2025, that may or may not be relevant a day, a week, a month or a year from now: America is in serious decline and with that, the light of Christ is being diminished in our once great nation. There are those who are putting up a valiant fight, but the floodtide is moving away from our shores, leaving spiritual, psychological and physical devastation in its wake. The perverse Godlessness of global Marxism has a firm grip on our nation and many of her institutions. They are destroying our legacies, our government and our institutions of higher learning. They are stealing our children, killing our unborn and murdering our patriotic and Christian citizens and our national heroes. And worst of all, they are bragging about their evil deeds and wicked accomplishments. They are celebrating the demise of America as having been a good, decent and Christian nation.
There is only One Hope left and that is the Message of Christ. And it must be brought to our nation and world by each Christian reaching one person.
Fighting with weapons of war is futile. We must win the hearts and minds of the enemy in order to win our nation back – one person at a time. God has given us the victory only if we wage this war in His Name, using His Methods, by the word of our testimony and by the Blood of the Lamb! Let’s pray continuously for one another that we are obedient, even to death if necessary, for we are not of those who would shrink back!
Why is your bible so thin? (We don’t need all those pages now-a-days. Things have changed. So, we discarded a few things).
Why is your bible missing pages, chapters and verses? (They were old fashioned and outdated and we didn’t need that out-of-date stuff).
Why is your bible so contorted? (I don’t know what you are talking about).
Why is your bible so thick? (It needed some revisions and additions to meet current standards, so we added a few things).
Today, there are over 450 known versions of the Bible translated into over 700 languages, and by some credible accounts, there have been between 5 and 7 billion Bible sold, alone. And there is just no way to estimate the books written about the Bible, Jesus, God, etc.
According to Bible Gateway, an online Bible and commentary resource, “Whether you’re browsing the Bible section at your local bookstore or comparing Bible Gateway’s own library (which features dozens of English translations, let alone the huge variety of other languages), you might feel overwhelmed by the alphabet soup of abbreviations in front of you.
You’re not alone — Bible decision fatigue is real. In fact, it’s not uncommon for shoppers to leave stores empty handed rather than risk buying the “wrong” Bible version.
Here’s the good news: with very few exceptions, there is no “wrong” version of the Good News. But depending on what you’re looking for, there are better or worse places for you to start.
This guide will help you sort through the major Bible versions available today and make a choice that suits your personal circumstances. You’ll also learn a bit about the different translation types, or philosophies, and a crash course in their histories. When you’re done, you’ll have no trouble telling your NIV from your ESV, your NRSVUE from your NABRE, and your KJV from your NKJV”.
That is quite a way from the Words of Jesus contained in about six chapters of the book of Matthew from the New Testament of the Bible.
Bible Gateway says, “with very few exceptions, there is no “wrong” version of the Good News” (i.e., of the Bible). To which I say, there is no “wrong” version of the Bible unless you just don’t really care or understand the REAL purpose of the Bible. Then, yeah, what’s the diff?
But, if you understood that the Bible is actually the Word of God – His Breathed Out Word – a verbal inspiration meaning that the Bible’s human authors were guided by God in such a way that every word they wrote is considered to be inspired and authoritative. (This doctrine asserts that God influenced the writers’ thoughts and words, ensuring that the Scriptures convey His intended message without error).
God’s Word has been written down for you to read and to consume mentally, emotionally, and spiritually, then it matters. (see John 6:53–58, Jesus says, “Very truly I tell you, unless you eat the flesh of the Son of Man and drink his blood, you have no life in you. Whoever eats my flesh and drinks my blood has eternal life, and I will raise them up at the last day. For my flesh is real food and my blood is real drink. Whoever eats my flesh and drinks my blood remains in me, and I in them. Just as the living Father sent me and I live because of the Father, so the one who feeds on me will live because of me. This is the bread that came down from heaven. Your ancestors ate manna and died, but whoever feeds on this bread will live forever.”
The reason various nations have banned the Bible over the centuries is because of the potential of what it does in the heart, mind and life of the one who reads it and believes it:
“If you abide in my word, you are truly my disciples, and you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” [John 8:31-32 English Standard Version].
“For the law of the Spirit of life has set you free in Christ Jesus from the law of sin and death.” [Romans 8:2 English Standard Version].
It will set you free from oppression of the devil; free in your soul – in your mind, will and emotions; free in your physical body – from unwarranted sickness, disease and infirmities; free from evil influences, free from fears, free from poverty, free from hatreds, free from chaos; free to love and to be loved, free to experience and to give joy, peace, kindness, goodness, patience, self-control; free to find you place in life and to live it too it full potential; free to find likeminded, generous people and to live freely among them.
This what is known as “being saved” or being “born again”.
SAVED (from the Greek word, “Sozo) : To be made safe, to be made healthy, to be made whole (complete with purpose), NOW and for all of eternity,
Made safe, to be made healthy, to be made whole In your body. In your mind. In your soul and spirit.
Made safe, to be made healthy, to be made whole In your home. With your family, your children, your spouse and relatives. In your work. With your friends. In every aspect of your life.
(This is not a magic formula or a spell. It is the Word of God through your faithful, submissive obedience in following Jesus.
This is the Good News and the reason God sent us His Son. Jesus.
This is the Good News that Jesus proclaims to the world, then and now.
As strange as it may seem, the One who spoke these prophetic words, possesses the power which is able to transform your life, so radically, so completely, so thoroughly, that those who knew you beforehand, would hardly recognize you afterwards. In fact, if and when you embrace and absorbed His Words into your heart, mind and soul as His devoted follower you would hardly be able to recognize yourself when the process is complete.
You might even have to ask yourself, “Can I really be that man or that woman who went about under my name before?”
You are, in one sense the same person, but in another sense, you will have become someone utterly different. Made new. Reborn. A new creation.
Please understand that this does not negate the trials, tribulations and troubles we will face in this life. They are part of our being sanctified and prepared for an eternity with God. Nonetheless, this intensely real power to which I am referring, can pick you up today – right now – from the midst of loneliness, failure, ruin, misery, despair or any difficulty, and in the twinkling of an eye, as Paul said, IN THE MIDST OF THE PROBLEMS YOU FACE IN LIFE, He can begin to solve those problems, smooth out the difficulties, cut you free from entanglements and place you clear, safe and happy upon the highroad of freedom and opportunity – IF YOU CAN UNDERSTAND HIS PLAN AND PRUPOSES, AND ARE WILLING AND ABLE TO ENDURE THIS PROCESS.
Does this mean your will always be physically well or mentally strong or rich by the worlds standards or famous? No. No. A thousand times no.
But it does mean that you can find purpose and meaning and usefulness in even the worst of life’s circumstances.
He can free you to go and shape your life as God would have it – a life full with purpose and of promises met.
He can throw open the MANY prison doors that hold you captive, and liberate you.
He is the healing balm for the bruised and broken heart.
He can inspire you with new thoughts and ideas, so that your life’s work may be truly original, meaningful and lasting.
He can impart new and wonderful kinds of knowledge, as soon as you really want such knowledge – glorious knowledge – strange things not taught in schools or written in ordinary books.
He can find your true place in life, and put you into it, too.
He can find the right friends for you, kindred spirits who are interested in the same ideas and want the same things that you do.
He can provide you the type of prosperity that means freedom. Not as the world knows prosperity. But the type of prosperity that means true Freedom. Free to be and to do and to go as God has called you to be and to do.
This Power of God can teach you all things you need to know, if only you are receptive and teachable.
So, if your life is lacking the continuous flow of the fruit of the Spirit, the love, the joy, the peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control, Now, Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is now at hand.
If your life is missing out on the works that Jesus did, and even greater works of teaching and preaching the Gospel of the Kingdom which can heal all kinds of sickness and diseases, Jesus says today is the day of your salvation – repent, for the kingdom of heaven is now at hand.
If you are living in loneliness, fear, doubt lack and want, Jesus says today is the day of your salvation – repent, for the kingdom of heaven is now at hand.
If you are and your behaviors are “friendly” with the world but at odds with the Words and Teachings of Jesus, Jesus says today is the day of your salvation – repent for the kingdom of heaven is now at hand.
You know, from the day we are born until the day we die, the 23rd Psalm tells us that we will walk through the valley of the shadow of death in this lifetime. And that God has set at table before us in the presence of your enemies, and that He has anointed our heads with His Oil and that our cup overflows. And His goodness and mercy will follow us all the days of our lives. And our dwelling place will be in the house of the Lord, forever.
The day of our salvation is now at hand. You can experience the richness of being saved. You can feast at the table He has set before you, even in the presence of your enemies of lack, want, sickness, poverty disease, loneliness and the like. You no longer need to miss the mark or to be left out of the things He has prepared for your life to Bless you and to prosper your soul.
You are made safe, and rescued from eternal harm. You will have found a rich and fulfilling purpose in and for your life, now. You can be made secure in all your relationships and in all the matters of your life. You can be assured of an eternal life with Him. THIS IS THE TABLE HE HAS SET BEFORE YOU.
As Jesus has said, “You must first repent, for the Kingdom of Heaven is now at hand”.
And this is why it matters that you do not change or modify what the most accurate versions of the Bible; those versions which adhere most closely to the meaning and context of the original transcripts of the Bible. (Such as the New American Standard version, the English Standard Version, King James and the New King James versions).
God’s Word was spoken and is written in a way (assuming it is unaltered and unadulterated) that it simply, magnificently and mysteriously transforms us by the renewing of our mind so we may prove what the will of God is, that which is good, acceptable and perfect. (see Romans 2:12).
Your Brother and Friend,
Mike Young
“Only be strong and very courageous; be careful to do according to all the Law which Moses My servant commanded you; do not turn from it to the right or to the left, so that you may achieve success wherever you go. This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do according to all that is written in it; for then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will achieve success.” (Joshua 1:7-8, New American Standard Bible).
(“Does this mean I can learn to be an advanced Christian disciple and disciple-maker?”)
Jesus and the Pre-Church Age
Jesus. Yes, just Jesus. (See Matthew 4:13-17). Then He called men and made them His disciples, (see Matthew 4:18-23), who were men who learned from Him – through His teaching and by His example. These disciples were considered as “uneducated and untrained men – they were amazing, were recognized as having been with Jesus.” (see Acts 4:13).
Jesus took His disciples from person to person, town to town, city to city demonstrating and “teaching in their synagogues and proclaiming the Gospel of the Kingdom, and healing every disease and every sickness among the people.” (see Matthew 4:23-24).
Then Jesus sent these men out own their own to do the work He had assigned them – and gave them authority over unclean spirits, to cast them out, and to heal every disease and every sickness. He told them, “as you go, preach, saying, ‘The kingdom of heaven has come near.’ Heal the sick, raise the dead, cleanse those with leprosy, cast out demons.” (See Matthew 10).
Unlike the Pharisees and the Sanhedrin, there were no schools of Rabbinic Judaism. There were no universities, no formal education except for what they had learned about the Torah from their father, by reading, listening and through example. And unlike today, where formal education in doctrine, dogma, form and fashion of a Christian Religion is taught in colleges, universities and seminaries.
And they righted the world by turning it upside-down in the name of Jesus. (see Acts 17:6).
The Early Church
The first use of the word “Church” is found in Matthew 16:18, when Jesus says, “And I also say to you that you are Peter, and upon this rock I will build My church; and the gates of Hades will not overpower it.” This word then appears 75 more times in the New Testament (KJV). It is derived from the Greek word “ekklesia,” meaning an assembly or congregation of called-out ones.
When they had entered the city, that is Peter, John, James, and Andrew, Philip and Thomas, Bartholomew and Matthew, James the son of Alphaeus, Simon the Zealot, and Judas theson of James, they went up to the upstairs room where they were staying. All these were continually devoting themselves with one mind to prayer, along with the women, and Mary the mother of Jesus, and with His brothers. (see Acts 1:12-14).
At this time Peter stood up among the brothers and sisters (a group of about 120 people was there together and said, “Brothers, the Scripture had to be fulfilled, which the Holy Spirit foretold. (see Act 2:42).
The Church is Born
And with many other words Peter solemnly testified and kept on urging them, saying, “Be saved from this perverse generation!” So then, those who had received his word were baptized; and that day there were added about three thousand souls.
They were continually devoting themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. (see Act 2:40-42).
Then Came Denominationalism
The first Christian church is generally considered to be the Church of Jerusalem, founded around 33 A.D following the Ascension of Christ. This early church was composed of Jesus’ disciples and was recognized as the mother of all Christian communities.
The first Christian church was established in Jerusalem around 33 AD, shortly after the Ascension of Jesus Christ. This church is often referred to as the “Mother of all Churches.” It was founded by Jesus’ disciples, who were primarily Jewish, and it served as the initial community for early Christians.
As Christianity spread beyond Jerusalem, it began to diversify. The early followers initially identified as Jews and practiced their faith within the context of Second Temple Judaism. Over time, as the message of Christianity reached Gentiles, the church evolved, leading to various interpretations and practices.
By the end of the first century, Christianity had spread to various regions, including Rome, Greece, and North Africa. This expansion led to the formation of different communities, each with unique beliefs and practices. The term “Christian” was first used in Antioch, where followers of Jesus were distinguished from other Jewish sects.
The Catholic Church claims to be the original Christian church, tracing its leadership back to the apostles, particularly Peter, who is considered the first pope. The term “Catholic” was first used by Ignatius of Antioch in the early 2nd century, indicating a universal church that included all believers.
Century
Events and Developments
1st Century
The birth of Christianity with the ministry, crucifixion, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Formation of the earliest Christian communities in Jerusalem, Antioch, and other locations.
2nd Century
Emergence of various theological schools and interpretations of Christian doctrine, including Gnostic sects and early Christian apologists. Development of the office of bishop in some Christian communities.
3rd Century
Persecutions of Christians under Roman emperors. Development of the Nicene Creed in response to theological controversies, defining key Christian beliefs.
4th Century
313 AD: Emperor Constantine’s Edict of Milan legalizes Christianity in the Roman Empire.
325 AD: The First Council of Nicaea is convened to address theological disputes and establish the Nicene Creed.
381 AD: The First Council of Constantinople reaffirms and amends the Nicene Creed. The emergence of Eastern Orthodox Christianity and Western (Roman) Christianity.
5th Century
431 AD: The Council of Ephesus deals with Christological controversies, contributing to the schism between Eastern and Western Christianity.
451 AD: The Council of Chalcedon addresses further Christological issues, deepening the divide between the Eastern Orthodox and the Oriental Orthodox churches.
11th Century
1054 AD: The Great Schism occurs, leading to the formal split between the Eastern Orthodox Church and the Roman Catholic Church.
16th Century
1517 AD: Martin Luther’s Ninety-Five Theses mark the beginning of the Protestant Reformation.
1520s-1530s: Emergence of various Protestant denominations, including Lutheranism, Calvinism, and Anabaptism.
1534 AD: Henry VIII of England establishes the Church of England (Anglicanism) after his break with the Roman Catholic Church.
17th Century
1600s: The Baptist tradition emerges, with various Baptist denominations forming in England and North America.
18th Century
1700s: The Methodist movement begins as a reform movement within Anglicanism, eventually leading to the formation of the Methodist Church.
19th Century
1800s: The Restoration Movement in the United States gives rise to the Churches of Christ, Disciples of Christ, and other Restorationist groups.
1830: The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (Mormonism) is founded by Joseph Smith.
20th Century
Various Pentecostal and Charismatic movements gain prominence within Protestantism. Ecumenical efforts lead to increased dialogue and cooperation between some Christian denominations.
21st Century (up to 2021)
see below
Continued growth of non-denominational and independent churches. Ongoing dialogue and attempts at ecumenism among various Christian groups. Various theological and social issues continue to shape the landscape of Christian denominations.
Today, it is reported that there are over 2,000 Christian denominations in America alone (including those claiming to be non-denominational and some considered as cults). Worldwide there are estimated to be over 30,000 varying denominations claiming the name of Jesus in one fashion or another.
Then Came the Religious Training – Colleges and Seminaries – And we got really “smart” at religion.
The first Christian seminaries were established during the Counter-Reformation, particularly after the Council of Trent in the 16th century, which called for the creation of seminaries to train clergy. Along with the spread of denominationalism came the spread of religious training. Initially churches were the training ground for pastors and preachers. Then various denominations established formal institutions for educating student and future pastors in their particular brand of Christianity. And with time, this training became intensely formal and academic, offering levels of degrees, mimicking secular universities undergraduate bachelor’s degrees, master’s level of degrees and doctorates in multiples of disciplines. Each denomination with their own twist. A far cry from Jesus and his band of twelve uneducated and untrained men who turned the world upside down.
Then Came the Apostasy
As the training and teaching expanded so did the innovation and opinion-based influences creep into the church.
For further examples, scores of protestant denominations and hundreds of thousands of churches, over time, have abandoned the clear mandates, doctrines and teachings of the Bible.
AD 1 The Church of Jesus Christ, The Body of Christ, had no buildings, little money and no wealth. The Church was a Movement.
Jesus said to make disciples; collect no money except to make your journey.
The penalty for becoming a Christian was often death.
The Church grew exponentially.
AD 49 The Church expanded into Greece. The Church became a philosophy to many. The Church grew and size and influence.
AD 313 The Church expanded into Rome and it gained recognition. It grew in power and popularity. It obtained wealth, buildings, property and influence. It became an institution.
AD 380 The Church expanded into Europe. It was becoming a worldwide phenomenon. It grew in wealth, stature, power and influence. It had become a culture.
AD 1607 The Church reaches America.
AD 1681 The Church became corporate. It had become a business and incorporated. It became regulated by the government.
The Corporate Church grew. It needed money to support growth and expansion, which meant the Corporate Church needed more people.
AD 1777 The state of Virginia granted tax exemption to houses of worship.
AD 1894 The corporate church was granted tax exemptions by the Federal Government.
AD 1954 The Federal Government regulated what a church could and could not say in order to retain tax-exempt status.
The church continued to grow, and in order to attract more people the Corporate Church lowered its membership and doctrinal standards. More people became ‘members’ and gave more money to support more growth.
The Church corporation is complete with leaders, boards and membership and a business model.
Local churches compete against one another for members (customers). The church is selling itself in “three line slogans”.
The Church members now have choices and have become religious consumers. Church people can shop around for the religious brand and standards that best suits them. (2 Timothy 3)
The Leadership (pastors and preachers) have become CEOs, disciples have become church leaders, growing their 501(c)(3) business models.
Record numbers of pastors quitting because of stress, burnout or are being fired by their congregations (some stats say 1500 – 1700 leave “the ministry” each month).
Church debt in America soars; church foreclosures soar.
AD 1968 The church ordains homosexuals as clergy.
AD 1972 The United church of Christ ordains homosexual clergy
AD 2010 The Lutheran church ordains homosexual clergy
AD 2024 The church is losing and has lost influence. The church in 2020 is losing members.
AD 2025 Much of the church is teaching and living a different Gospel than that of the Apostles.
SO, WHAT TO DO?
Let me begin by saying that I know very few will have read this. I also know that I have little to no influence on the church or on those who lead and formulate policy for the church. So, why bother? Am I just ranting? Perhaps. But like the man who would stroll the beach after the tides would recede, picking up starfish, one at a time, tossing them back into the water. When asked why he would bother since thousands and thousands are stranded, dying on the beach, he picked up one more and said, it means something to this one. So it is with me.
We need to let our faith in Christ, and our understanding and belief in The Word, be expressed – pressed out – our expression, conviction and confession.
Put in the simplest and perhaps the most mundane of terms, ask yourselves, WWJD, (What would Jesus do?) And in order to find your answer, read the New Testament Gospel Books (and I suggest using the New American Standard Version of the Bible). Then do exactly as He taught and demonstrated. Period.
Or, if you want a more detailed and slightly more complicated answer:
The Holy of Holies in the Tabernacle, should be expressed by how we speak, how we deport ourselves, how we live and how we treat others. It is Christ in us, our hope of glory, on display.\
The outer courts and where we invite and receive those who are drawn to Christ, where we proclaim the Gospel message and make disciples. This work takes place both outside and inside the Temple.
Although the architecture of modern-day church buildings may differ from the Tabernacle and the Temple, and the spiritual significance and symbolisms have been fulfilled with the coming of the Christ Jesus. It remains true that our beliefs and faith are expressed within the Church – be it a building, a program or a person. All of these things should not conform to the world, but must be transformed by the renewing of our minds so the we may prove what is the will of God, that which is good, acceptable and perfect! Or do you not know that your body is a templeoftheHolySpirit within you?
In conclusion, we should allow the Holy of Holies to influence, guide, direct and establish our ways. It should be ‘from the inside to the outside’. Every act and service of our worship is a result of our focus on the Holy of Holies, from the Holy places, to our priesthood as believers, to our encampment around our Tabernacles, through our inner courts, outer courts and into this world. Anything and everything else, is just a sideshow.
Your Brother and Friend,
Mike Young
PS:Examples of sideshows: Easter bunnies and egg hunts at church. Halloween at church disguised as Fall festivals. Christmas parties at church focused on materialism. There are times for these things, but not in the sanctuary, remembering, the Church is an Expression of what you really and truly believe. Just don’t do them and do not teach them to your children.
(Click the image above for the video of Carlson and Baldwin on Israel)
There is a hotly debated assertion that modern Israel is not the same as the Biblical Israel. Yes, there are differences as well as similarities. But that debate misses the point that Israel had ceased to exists as a state or nation for 2,000 years. Then, as foretold, Israel returned as a nation in 1948, even “with some similarities and some differences” – but God has said He would reestablish Israel as a nation even if “only a remnant” would return.
The Prophecy of the Restoration of Israel is a significant theme in the Bible, reflecting God’s enduring covenant with His chosen people, Israel. This prophetic theme is woven throughout the Old and New Testaments, highlighting God’s promise to restore Israel both physically and spiritually after periods of judgment and exile.
Old Testament Foundations (From BibleHub.com):
The restoration of Israel is prominently featured in the prophetic books of the Old Testament. The prophets, speaking under divine inspiration, conveyed messages of hope and future restoration to a nation often beset by disobedience and exile.
1. Isaiah: The book of Isaiah contains numerous prophecies concerning the restoration of Israel. Isaiah 11:11-12 declares, “On that day the Lord will extend His hand a second time to recover the remnant of His people from Assyria, from Egypt, from Pathros, Cush, Elam, Shinar, Hamath, and from the islands of the sea. He will raise a banner for the nations and gather the exiles of Israel; He will collect the scattered of Judah from the four corners of the earth.”
2. Jeremiah: Jeremiah prophesied during a tumultuous period in Israel’s history, yet he spoke of a future restoration. Jeremiah 30:3 states, “For behold, the days are coming, declares the LORD, when I will restore from captivity My people Israel and Judah, declares the LORD. I will restore them to the land that I gave to their fathers, and they will possess it.”
On a more contemporary note:
Tucker Carlson, well known and respected American conservative, patriot, political conservative and an Episcopalian-Catholic-leaning-Christian, has gone on the record against Benjamin Netanyahu, calling him a dangerous man, caring only about Israel, accuses him of controlling America and of being no friend of America. He goes to express his wariness of Israel as a U.S. ally and to explain his disdain and dislike of Zionists everywhere. WHAT IS GOING ON?
Chuck Baldwin, pastor, previous presidential candidate, American patriot has gone on record saying the Israel of today is not the Israel of the Bible, that Netanyahu and Zionists everywhere are bloodthirsty monsters.
Baldwin, with all his seminary training and his doctorate, ignores and lies about the plain words of Scriptures by saying that the Bible never says, “If you bless Israel, God will bless you” Baldwin says “that is an outright lie”! (F.Y.I., see Numbers 24:9, Genesis 49:9, Genesis 12:3). WHAT’S GOING ON?
It saddens me to say that Carlson and Baldwin are putting their Nationalist ideologies ahead of God’s published plan. They are sounding like neo-fascists, (and I astounded and deeply saddened).
There are many other theologians and respected, well-grounded pastors and Bible teachers who assert that “the modern day Israel is not the Israel of the Bible”. If this is so, then what is the point of the existence of Israel at all?
These same two people acknowledge (or, at least I hope they acknowledge) that the Bible says God will call Israel back together as a nation, and that it happened in 1948.
According to Scriptures, Israel would be dispersed, as it was in the first century, yet would be regathered to their land and reborn as a nation. This occurred when Israel became a nation in 1948. With the return of a significant number of Jews to Israel in addition to the nation being reestablished, God is preparing the world for end-time events. Israel’s present history is one of ongoing crisis and turmoil, particularly in regard to the city of Jerusalem, and this will continue until Israel’s signing of a covenant with the Antichrist. That event will mark the beginning of the final years of Daniel’s seventieth week prophecy. (see GotQuestions.Org).
Isaiah 10:20-22 tells us, A Remnant of God’s People Will Return.
Isaiah 10:20. Now on that day the remnant of Israel, and those of the house of Jacob who have escaped, will no longer rely on the one who struck them, but will truly rely on the LORD, the Holy One of Israel. Verse 21. A remnant will return, the remnant of Jacob, to the mighty God. Verse 22. For though your people, Israel, may be like the sand of the sea, Only a remnant within them will return”.
A remnant will return: This phrase signifies hope and restoration. In the context of Isaiah, the prophet speaks to a future time when a portion of Israel, despite the nation’s judgment and exile, will come back to their homeland. The concept of a “remnant” is a recurring theme in the Bible, indicating a small, faithful group preserved by God.
A remnant of Jacob: “Jacob” here refers to the nation of Israel, descended from the patriarch Jacob, whose name was changed to Israel. This highlights the continuity of God’s promises from the patriarchs to their descendants. Historically, the Northern Kingdom of Israel had been conquered by Assyria, and the Southern Kingdom of Judah faced similar threats. The mention of “Jacob” emphasizes the unity and identity of the people as God’s chosen, despite their division and sin. It also connects to the broader narrative of Israel’s history and God’s enduring commitment to His people.
Only a remnant will return: The concept of a remnant is significant throughout the Bible, often referring to a small, faithful group preserved by God amidst judgment. This prophecy was partially fulfilled when a small number of Israelites returned from Babylonian exile (Ezra 2). Theologically, it points to God’s grace and mercy, preserving a faithful group despite widespread unfaithfulness. It also foreshadows the New Testament theme of a remnant chosen by grace (Romans 11:5).
There is a hotly debated assertion that modern Israel is not the same as the Biblical Israel. Yes, there are differences as well as similarities. But that debate misses the point that Israel had ceased to exists as a state or nation for 2,000 years. Then, as foretold, Israel returned as a nation in 1948, even “with some similarities and some differences” – but God has said “only a remnant” would return. A remnant among the hundreds of thousands. Hidden within the 806,000 Jews who reassembled in 1948 forming the nation of Israel, was a remnant. Today, among the 10,148,000 Jewish inhabitants in Israel (population numbers from the Jewish Virtual Library), exists God’s remnant. They are waiting for their moment in eschatological history
A destruction is determined, overflowing with righteousness.
Isaiah 10:23. For a complete destruction, one that is determined, the Lord GOD of armies will execute in the midst of the whole land.
Isaiah 10:24, Therefore this is what the Lord GOD of armies says: “My people, you who dwell in Zion, do not fear the Assyrian who strikes you with the rod, and lifts up his staff against you the way Egypt did. Verse 25. For in a very little while My indignation against you will be ended and My anger will be directed toward their destruction.” Verse 26. The LORD of armies will wield a whip against him like the defeat of Midian at the rock of Oreb; and His staff will be over the sea, and He will lift it up the way He did in Egypt. Verse 27. So it will be on that day, that his burden will be removed from your shoulders, and his yoke from your neck; and the yoke will be broken because of fatness.
He shakes his fist at the mountain of the daughter of Zion, the hill of Jerusalem.
Verse 33. Behold, the Lord, the GOD of armies, will lop off the branches with terrifying power;
Those also who are tall in stature will be cut down,
And those who are lofty will be brought low.
Verse 34. He will cut down the thickets of the forest with an iron axe,
And Lebanon will fall by the Mighty One.
Do not be deceived. The remnant has eschatological implications, pointing to the ultimate fulfillment of God’s promises in the end times. The Book of Revelation speaks of a faithful group that endures tribulation and remains steadfast in their testimony of Jesus. This eschatological remnant is seen as the culmination of God’s redemptive work, where the faithful are gathered from all nations to worship and serve God eternally.
Throughout Scripture, the remnant of Israel serves as a powerful reminder of God’s faithfulness, mercy, and sovereign purpose. It underscores the truth that, despite human failure, God’s plans will prevail, and His people will be preserved to fulfill His divine will.
Romans 11:26 plainly says, “All Israel will be saved.” The question that arises is: “What is meant by Israel?” Is the future “Israel” literal or figurative (i.e., referring to the ethnic Jews or referring to the Church)? Those who take a literal approach to the promises of the Old Testament believe that the physical descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob will be restored to a right relationship with God and receive the fulfillment of the covenants.
In the Day of the Lord, God will “reclaim the surviving remnant of his people” (Isaiah 11:11). Jesus Christ will return and destroy the armies gathered against Him in rebellion (Revelation 19). Sinners will be judged, and the faithful remnant of Israel will be set apart forever as God’s holy people (Zechariah 13:8—14:21). Isaiah 12 is their song of deliverance; Zion will rule over all the nations under the banner of Messiah the King.
Your Brother and Friend,
Mike Young
(parts of this article use various sources such as the New American Standard Bible, BibleHub.com, GotQuestions.Org, the Virtual Jewish Library).
TURN THE OTHER CHEEK – It Is Not What You Think It Might Be
“But I say to you, do not show opposition against an evil person; but whoever slaps you on your right cheek, turn the other toward him also.”
Matthew 5:39 (NASB). These are the words and teachings of Jesus.
How does it make sense to let a person “slap you silly”. Showing restraint and non-aggression is one thing, but inviting a person to beat you to death by putting up no defense, negates show love for an enemy – especially if you are beaten to death.
In order to better understand this teaching, let’s be clear from the start. Jesus said, “I was sent only to the lost sheep of the house of Israel.” Matthew 15:24. (NASB).
Again, when sending out His first disciples, Jesus said, “These twelve Jesus sent out after instructing them, saying, “Do not go on a road to Gentiles, and do not enter a city of Samaritans; but rather go to the lost sheep of the house of Israel.” Matthew 10:5-6. (NASB).
And since this was the case, we need to understand that Jesus would often speak in a way, using metaphors, similes, and colloquial phrases in a context familiar to the Jews. And this is one of those times.
So, let’s take a close look at Matthew 5:39.
(1) The act of slapping someone on the right cheek in the cultural context of Jesus’ time was considered a severe insult, often delivered with the back of the hand. This was not just a physical attack but a challenge to one’s honor and dignity. The right cheek is specifically mentioned, suggesting a backhanded slap from a right-handed person, which was more insulting than a direct slap. This reflects the cultural importance of honor and shame in the ancient Near East. Jesus’ instruction here is not about physical violence, but about responding to personal insults and affronts.
Jesus is obviously calling for a radical response of non-resistance, which aligns with His teachings on love and forgiveness. This principle is echoed in Romans 12:17-21, where Paul advises believers to overcome evil with good.
Turning the other cheek is a metaphor for non-retaliation and the willingness to endure further insult rather than seek revenge. This action symbolizes the rejection of the cycle of violence and retaliation. It reflects the character of Jesus Himself, who, when reviled, did not retaliate (1 Peter 2:23). This teaching is a call to embody the kingdom values of humility, patience, and love, even towards one’s enemies.
It challenges believers to trust in God’s justice rather than taking matters into their own hands, aligning with the broader biblical theme of leaving vengeance to God (Deuteronomy 32:35). (Reference – BibleHub.com).
Which brings us to the final point: Faith and Trust.
It is possible to correctly and effectively obey this command of Jesus only if you understand, believe and trust that God will not only protect you, but exact His vengeance on the perpetrator. (This is why Jesus say to pray for your enemies – their fate in the Hand of our Living God as an enemy who is offending one of God’s own children, is worse than death.
It is possible to correctly and effectively obey this command of Jesus only if you recognize God’s sovereignty in and over your life. I.e., nothing happens to you that God has not allowed. (Jesus told Pontius Pilate, “You would have no authority over Me at all, if it had not been given to you from above; for this reason the one who handed Me over to you has the greater sin.” (John 19:11, NASB).
There is a purpose and God has a plan in all things concerning you. But if you interrupt His plan with a plan of your own, you have become an obstacle. (For example, Jesus He turned and said to Peter, “Get behind Me, Satan! You are a stumbling block to Me; for you are not setting your mind on God’s purposes, but men’s.” (Matthew 16:23 NASB).
This does not mean that we are to become “doormats” to evil. We are to become “doormen” to the Kingdom of God. Our strength comes through our stubborn obedience to Jesus commands and teaching. (“Therefore, take up the full armor of God, so that you will be able to resist on the evil day, and having done everything, to stand firm (“be, immovable, stubbornly planted”). Stand firm therefore”.
Throughout Jesus’ radical and revolutionary counter-cultural teachings, Jesus is saying at least these two things: (1). Resist not evil, i.e., do not become entangled in evil. It can affect you in ways that will draw you into its darkness. Stand firm in the Light of God and on His Word. But do resist the devil as you draw near to God, and the devil will flee from you. (2). We do not have time for the frivolity of fighting evil with our flesh. It is a waste of time, which we do not have. Jesus is coming soon, and the fields are ripe to harvest. We have much work to accomplish. Move past these “temporary and light afflictions”, as the Apostle Paul called them, which are “producing for us an eternal weight of glory far beyond all comparison, while we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen; for the things which are seen are temporal, but the things which are not seen are eternal.”
It takes great trust and faith to follow this command of Jesus. But once we grasp the ‘bigger picture’ and understand that we have been invited and called to participate in God’s Plan for all humanity, we should be honored and humbled. This is a foreshadowing of what is to come:
“Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth; for the first heaven and the first earth passed away, and there is no longer any sea. And I saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband. And I heard a loud voice from the throne, saying, “Behold, the tabernacle of God is among the people, and He will dwell among them, and they shall be His people, and God Himself will be among them, and He will wipe away every tear from their eyes; and there will no longer be any death; there will no longer be any mourning, or crying, or pain; the first things have passed away.”
“And He who sits on the throne said, “Behold, I am making all things new.” And He said, “Write, for these words are faithful and true.” Then He said to me, “It is done. I am the Alpha and the Omega, the beginning and the end. I will give water to the one who thirsts from the spring of the water of life, without cost. The one who overcomes will inherit these things, and I will be his God and he will be My son. But for the cowardly, and unbelieving, and abominable, and murderers, and sexually immoral persons, and sorcerers, and idolaters, and all liars, their part will be in the lake that burns with fire and brimstone, which is the second death.” (Revelation 21:1-8)
“I saw no temple in it, for the Lord God the Almighty and the Lamb are its temple. And the city has no need of the sun or of the moon to shine on it, for the glory of God has illuminated it, and its lamp is the Lamb. The nations will walk by its light, and the kings of the earth will bring their glory into it. In the daytime (for there will be no night there) its gates will never be closed; and they will bring the glory and the honor of the nations into it; and nothing unclean, and no one who practices abomination and lying, shall ever come into it, but only those whose names are written in the Lamb’s book of life”. (Rev 21:22-27)
“Blessed are those who wash their robes, so that they will have the right to the tree of life, and may enter the city by the gates. Outside are the dogs, the sorcerers, the sexually immoral persons, the murderers, the idolaters, and everyone who loves and practices lying”. (Revelation 22:14-15).
I have recently been challenged by someone suggesting that “since the Bible cites women who prophesied in the Bible, and since prophecy can be defined as both ‘forth telling’ and as ‘foretelling’, and since ‘forth telling’ is the same as preaching, the women can be pastors.”
Wow! Wow, wow, wow. Okay. Since A equals B and B equals C and C equals D, there really is no A because it is really a D; or a B or a C?
Seriously, let’s begin by being reminded that Jesus fulfilled the old covenant and thereby has established the New Covenant in His Blood. For one (big) example, there is no longer any need for repeated animal sacrifices to atone for sin. Jesus, the Lamb of God, was and is the final sacrifice for atonement (made “at one”, reconciled) with God.
Next, the Apostle Paul explains that the law (the Torah, also known as the “Halakha” which translates as “the path that one walks”, also referred to as the “Mitzvot”, “Mishna” and the “Talmud”, was codified into what we call the Old Testament around 400 to 200 B.C.). Paul was clear when He said, “Therefore the law was our tutor to bring us to Christ, that we might be justified by faith. But after faith has come, we are no longer under a tutor.”
This is important to remember when it comes to properly interpreting, reading and understanding Scriptures. We are to consider Scriptures in their original text and context, with the Old Testament as background and the New Testament as its fulfillment.
(Another example is found in Matthew 5: 21-26, “You have heard that the ancients were told, ‘You shall not murder,’ and ‘Whoever commits murder shall be answerable to the court.’But I (Jesus) say to you that everyone who is angry with his brother shall be answerable to the court; and whoever says to his brother, ‘You good-for-nothing,’ shall be answerable to the supreme court; and whoever says, ‘You fool,’ shall be guilty enough to go into the fiery hell.Come to good terms with your accuser quickly, while you are with him on the way to court, so that your accuser will not hand you over to the judge, and the judge to the officer, and you will not be thrown into prison.Truly, I say to you, you will not come out of there until you have paid up every last cent.”
The New Testament (the New Covenant) is built upon the Old Testament (the Law and the Old Covenants), and the New Covenant has fulfilled the Law. That Law is now written upon our hearts and minds (see Jeremiah 31:33 and Hebrews 10:16), and we have the Holy Spirit as our guide.
This should lead us to consider some misconceptions held by some who would co-mingle or syncretize the old and the new Covenants. Remembering that Jesus warned,“neither is new wine put into old wineskins. If it is, the skins burst and the wine is spilled, and the skins are destroyed. But new wine is put into fresh wineskins, and so both are preserved.”
Some say it is okay for a woman to hold the office of pastor and to preach in a general assembly of believers, over both men and women. They say the Old Testament says that women prophesied, and since prophesying is a form of preaching, they can be pastors. I am not certain how a person could or even would link those two thoughts, but let me be clear. Number one, the role of a prophet or prophesying has absolutely no direct tie or effect upon the role of a pastor. A pastor might prophesy, whether preaching or foretelling, and a prophet might preach, but the roles are distinctively separate.
FACTS:
Nowhere in the Old Testament do we find a woman as a pastor (although she may have been a teacher. Some say men in leadership was just a cultural norm, and that custom has changed in the modern world. That allegation is never mentioned in scriptures. What is mentioned is that God (and His Word) are the same yesterday, today and forever.
As mentioned above, we live under the New Covenant.
The Apostle Paul and the New Testament teaches that The Spiritual Gifts of apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors, and teachers are offices but only the office / gift of pastor is restricted to men.
Jesus and the Apostle Paul taught on differences between the role and office of prophet and gift of prophecy.
The word Pastor is a term derived from a Greek word for “shepherd”, and is reserved for the male in the Bible – a role for men. Pastoral Gifts include integrity and compassion. A shepherd (i.e., a pastor), is the feeder, protector, and ruler of a flock of men. Figuratively, a pastor is someone who the Lord raises up to care for the total well-being of His flock (the people of the Lord). (Strong’s Concordance). Pastor: This term derives from a Greek word for “shepherd”. Pastoral Gifts include integrity and compassion.
The term “poimén” primarily refers to a shepherd, one who tends, leads, and cares for a flock of sheep. In the New Testament, it is used both literally and metaphorically. Literally, it describes those who care for sheep, while metaphorically, it refers to leaders or pastors who guide and nurture a community of believers, akin to a shepherd with his flock.
The image of a shepherd was deeply embedded in the cultural and religious consciousness of the Israelites, often symbolizing leadership, provision, and protection. This imagery is prevalent throughout the Bible, where God is depicted as the ultimate Shepherd of His people, and leaders are often called to emulate this role.
(The tasks of a Near Eastern shepherd were to watch for enemies trying to attack the sheep to defend the sheep from attackers to heal the wounded and sick sheep to find and save lost or trapped sheep to love them, sharing their lives and so earning their trust.
During World War II, a shepherd was a pilot who guided another pilot whose plane was partially disabled back to the base or carrier by flying alongside him to maintain visual contact.)
d. In the New Testament, the office of prophet is to equip the saints for the work of service through exhortation, edification, and consolation (1 Corinthians 12:28; 1 Corinthians 14:3 Ephesians 4:11). The prophet’s corresponding gift is prophecy. Prophecy is “reporting something from God’s Word that God brings to your mind”. Prophecy is addressed to the human understanding “he who prophesies speaks to men,” Corinthians 14:1-25. The prophet “edifies the church” (14:4).
e. Preaching is a role of an Apostle, Apostle: The title apostle comes from the Greek word apostolos which means “a messenger, one sent forth with orders”. It refers to one who has been delegated authority by another in a foreign land. Apostles were the first leaders of the Church; they were commissioned by Jesus to initiate and direct the preaching of the gospel , andthey were all men. No woman has even been assigned as an Apostle in the Bible. And although the OFFICE of Apostle is closed, the gift of bringing the message of the Gospel is still active.
f. Preaching is a role of an Evangelist. Evangelist: An evangelist is one who devotes himself to preaching the gospel. In the New Testament, evangelists preached from city to city, church to church.
g. Preaching is a role of a Teacher: Someone who devotes his or her life to preaching and teaching the Christian faith. When teaching is provided for the Church by God, two gifts are actually given—to the Church is given a teacher and along with the teacher comes a divine capacity to teach.
Finally, the Apostle Paul, in 1 Corinthians 14:33- 38, speaks to the matter of women speaking in Churches. “As in all the churches of the saints, verse 34, the women are to keep silent in the churches; for they are not permitted to speak, but are to subject themselves, just as the Law also says. Verse 35. If they desire to learn anything, let them ask their own husbands at home; for it is improper for a woman to speak in church. Verse 36. Or was it from you that the word of God first went out? Or has it come to you only?“
“Verse 37. If anyone thinks that he is a prophet or spiritual, let him recognize that the things which I write to you are the Lord’s commandment. Verse 38. But if anyone does not recognize this, he is not recognized.”
This is a matter of authority-covering, protection and authority over God’s Church. There are so many roles and only one is absolutely, by scriptural authority, reserved for men – that of the office of Pastor, his roles, duties and responsibilities.
If someone knowingly links or lumps these offices together, it is both a misrepresentation of scriptures and a claim that the Word of God in incomplete and is malleable, open to personal interpretation. (However, 2 Peter 1:20 clearly mandates, But know this firstof all, that no prophecy of Scripture becomes a matter of someone’s own interpretation.)
Next, this is also using the method of Eisegesis to make a personal interpretation of scriptures, an interpretation of a text, especially a biblical text, by reading one’s own ideas or biases into it, rather than drawing out its original meaning. This approach is often subjective and can distort the intended message of the text. And although eisegesis itself is not classified as a heresy, it can lead to heretical interpretations of Scripture by imposing personal biases rather than drawing out the text’s original meaning. This practice is often criticized in theological discussions for distorting the intended message of the Bible.
When a church or a pastor decides to do these things, he (and she?) are operating “in the flesh” and outside the boundaries of clearly defined Scriptural mandates. And there really is no need nor a good reason to add one’s opinion to scriptures to achieve a personal result or to suit a personal view – and besides, there would be consequences in the Body.
equals 
and
Does the 
Then, 
That is quite a way from the Words of Jesus contained in about six chapters of the book of Matthew from the New Testament of the Bible.
