Words of Jesus Podcast

"This is who I want you to be." The process of salvation, of being born-again, is more than a matter of mental assent to the existence of God or of accepting Jesus of Nazareth. We are lost, selfish, unregenerate people. Our mission is to change. The sixth commandment is, "Thou shalt not kill." Wait, there’s more. We must do the works of God to and for our neighbors and our brothers. Jesus reveals the lifestyle expected of those who claim His name. ***Chapter 19: The Sermon on the Mount... You have heard that it was said to them of old time, You will not kill; and whoever will kill will be in danger of the judgment: But I say unto you That whoever is angry with his brother without a cause will be in danger of the judgment: whoever will say to his brother, Raca, will be in danger of the council: but whoever will say, You fool, will be in danger of hell fire. Therefore, if you bring your gift to the altar, and there remember that your brother has anything against you, Leave there your gift before the altar, and go your way; first be reconciled to your brother, and then come and offer your gift. Agree with your adversary quickly, while you are in the way with him; lest at any time the adversary deliver you to the judge, and the judge deliver you to the officer, and you be cast into prison. Verily I say unto you, You will by no means come out of there, till you have paid the last penny. You have heard that it was said to them of old time, You will not commit adultery: But I say unto you, that whoever looks on a woman to lust after her has committed adultery with her already in his heart. And if your right eye offend you, pluck it out, and cast it from you: for it is profitable for you that one of your members should perish, and not that your whole body should be cast into hell. And if your right hand offend you, cut it off, and cast it from you: for it is profitable for you that one of your members should perish, and not that your whole body should be cast into hell. It has been said, Whoever will put away his wife, let him give her a writing of divorce: But I say unto you that whoever will put away his wife, saving for the cause of fornication, causes her to commit adultery: and whoever will marry her that is divorced commits adultery. Again, you have heard that it was said to them of old time, You will not perjure yourself, but will perform unto the Lord your oaths: But I say unto you, swear not at all; neither by heaven; for it is God's throne: Nor by the earth; for it is his footstool: neither by Jerusalem; for it is the city of the great King. Neither will you swear by your head, because you can not make one hair white or black. But let your communication be, Yea, yea; nay, nay: for whatsoever is more than these comes from evil. You have heard that it has been said, An eye for an eye, and a tooth for a tooth: But I say unto you, That you repay not evil: but whoever will smite you on your right cheek, turn to him and offer the other also. And if any man will sue you at the law, and take away your coat forbid him not, let him have your shirt also. And whoever will compel you to go a mile, go with him two miles. Give to every man that asks of you, and from him that would borrow of you, turn not away. And of him that takes away your goods ask them not again. You have heard that it has been said, You will love your neighbor, and hate your enemy. But I say unto you which hear, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you; That you may be the children of your Father who is in heaven: for he makes his sun to rise on the evil and on the good, and sends rain on the just and on the unjust. For if you love them which love you, what reward have you, what thank have you? Do not even the publicans the same, for sinners also love...

Don't settle. It's easy to read the Bible. It's even easier to presume what is written while relying on professionals or books and movies about the Bible. Jesus said, "Keep my commandments and Dad and I will move in and lead and guide you." Follow the instructions of Jesus to HEAR the Word of God. "For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. Neither is there any creature that is not manifest in his sight:..." Heb. 4 ***Chapter 19: The Sermon on the Mount... Think not that I am come to destroy the law or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfill. For verily I say unto you, Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle will in no wise pass from the law, till all is fulfilled. Whoever therefore will break one of these least commandments, and will teach men so, he will be called the least in the kingdom of heaven: but whoever will do and teach them, the same will be called great in the kingdom of heaven. For I say unto you, Except your righteousness exceeds the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees, you will in no case enter into the kingdom of heaven. You have heard that it was said to them of old time, You will not kill; and whoever will kill will be in danger of the judgment: But I say unto you That whoever is angry with his brother without a cause will be in danger of the judgment: whoever will say to his brother, Raca, will be in danger of the council: but whoever will say, You fool, will be in danger of hell fire. Therefore, if you bring your gift to the altar, and there remember that your brother has anything against you, Leave there your gift before the altar, and go your way; first be reconciled to your brother, and then come and offer your gift. Agree with your adversary quickly, while you are in the way with him; lest at any time the adversary deliver you to the judge, and the judge deliver you to the officer, and you be cast into prison. Verily I say unto you, You will by no means come out of there, till you have paid the last penny. You have heard that it was said to them of old time, You will not commit adultery: But I say unto you, that whoever looks on a woman to lust after her has committed adultery with her already in his heart. And if your right eye offend you, pluck it out, and cast it from you: for it is profitable for you that one of your members should perish, and not that your whole body should be cast into hell. And if your right hand offend you, cut it off, and cast it from you: for it is profitable for you that one of your members should perish, and not that your whole body should be cast into hell. It has been said, Whoever will put away his wife, let him give her a writing of divorce: But I say unto you that whoever will put away his wife, saving for the cause of fornication, causes her to commit adultery: and whoever will marry her that is divorced commits adultery. Again, you have heard that it was said to them of old time, You will not perjure yourself, but will perform unto the Lord your oaths: But I say unto you, swear not at all; neither by heaven; for it is God's throne: Nor by the earth; for it is his footstool: neither by Jerusalem; for it is the city of the great King. Neither will you swear by your head, because you can not make one hair white or black. But let your communication be, Yea, yea; nay, nay: for whatsoever is more than these comes from evil. You have heard that it has been said, An eye for an eye, and a tooth for a tooth: But I say unto you, That you repay not evil: but whoever will smite you on your right cheek, turn to him and offer the other also. And if any man will sue you at the law, and take away your...

Do the right thing for the right reason every time in every area of life. It makes a difference. We must be better than our enemies. There are consequences for being irresponsible. There are rewards for righteousness. We think: "[We are] rich, and increased with goods, and have need of nothing; [Jesus says,] ...knowest not that thou are wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked: I counsel thee to buy of me gold tried in the fire, that thou mayest be rich; and white raiment, that thou mayest be clothed, and that the shame of thy nakedness do not appear; and anoint thine eyes with eyesalve, that thou mayest see." Rev. 3***Chapter 19: The Sermon on the MountThink not that I am come to destroy the law or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfill. For verily I say unto you, Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle will in no wise pass from the law, till all is fulfilled. Whoever therefore will break one of these least commandments, and will teach men so, he will be called the least in the kingdom of heaven: but whoever will do and teach them, the same will be called great in the kingdom of heaven. For I say unto you, Except your righteousness exceeds the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees, you will in no case enter into the kingdom of heaven. You have heard that it was said to them of old time, You will not kill; and whoever will kill will be in danger of the judgment: But I say unto you That whoever is angry with his brother without a cause will be in danger of the judgment: whoever will say to his brother, Raca, will be in danger of the council: but whoever will say, You fool, will be in danger of hell fire. Therefore, if you bring your gift to the altar, and there remember that your brother has anything against you, Leave there your gift before the altar, and go your way; first be reconciled to your brother, and then come and offer your gift. Agree with your adversary quickly, while you are in the way with him; lest at any time the adversary deliver you to the judge, and the judge deliver you to the officer, and you be cast into prison. Verily I say unto you, You will by no means come out of there, till you have paid the last penny. You have heard that it was said to them of old time, You will not commit adultery: But I say unto you, that whoever looks on a woman to lust after her has committed adultery with her already in his heart. And if your right eye offend you, pluck it out, and cast it from you: for it is profitable for you that one of your members should perish, and not that your whole body should be cast into hell. And if your right hand offend you, cut it off, and cast it from you: for it is profitable for you that one of your members should perish, and not that your whole body should be cast into hell. It has been said, Whoever will put away his wife, let him give her a writing of divorce: But I say unto you that whoever will put away his wife, saving for the cause of fornication, causes her to commit adultery: and whoever will marry her that is divorced commits adultery. Again, you have heard that it was said to them of old time, You will not perjure yourself, but will perform unto the Lord your oaths: But I say unto you, swear not at all; neither by heaven; for it is God's throne: Nor by the earth; for it is his footstool: neither by Jerusalem; for it is the city of the great King. Neither will you swear by your head, because you can not make one hair white or black. But let your communication be, Yea, yea; nay, nay: for whatsoever is more than these comes from evil. You have heard that it has been said, An eye for an eye, and a tooth for a tooth: But I say unto you, That you repay not evil: but whoever will smite you on your right cheek, turn to him and offer the other also. And if any man will sue you at the law, and take...

THEME: The Sermon on the Mount. "Things are not like you think they are." "…[B]ut, I [Messiah] say... ["you're not even close"] - that's why I came. Jesus came to make correction in our doctrine and to make a way for mankind to be reconciled to God. The last prophet was John the Baptist. John's message was "Repent [Change] for the Kingdom of God is at hand." Messiah came as forecast since the days of Moses; a prophet (like unto you) human; and (like unto me) God. The people of Israel expected Messiah to be the Son of Man, they did not expect Messiah to be the Son of God. Since the sacrifice of Jesus, YHVH now calls all men to repentance. Faith only (what you believe) is bad doctrine. Men are transformed from unrighteous to righteous... by faith and works.***Chapter 19: The Sermon on the Mount...Think not that I am come to destroy the law or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfill. For verily I say unto you, Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle will in no wise pass from the law, till all is fulfilled. Whoever therefore will break one of these least commandments, and will teach men so, he will be called the least in the kingdom of heaven: but whoever will do and teach them, the same will be called great in the kingdom of heaven. For I say unto you, Except your righteousness exceeds the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees, you will in no case enter into the kingdom of heaven. You have heard that it was said to them of old time, You will not kill; and whoever will kill will be in danger of the judgment: But I say unto you That whoever is angry with his brother without a cause will be in danger of the judgment: whoever will say to his brother, Raca, will be in danger of the council: but whoever will say, You fool, will be in danger of hell fire. Therefore, if you bring your gift to the altar, and there remember that your brother has anything against you, Leave there your gift before the altar, and go your way; first be reconciled to your brother, and then come and offer your gift. Agree with your adversary quickly, while you are in the way with him; lest at any time the adversary deliver you to the judge, and the judge deliver you to the officer, and you be cast into prison. Verily I say unto you, You will by no means come out of there, till you have paid the last penny. You have heard that it was said to them of old time, You will not commit adultery: But I say unto you, that whoever looks on a woman to lust after her has committed adultery with her already in his heart. And if your right eye offend you, pluck it out, and cast it from you: for it is profitable for you that one of your members should perish, and not that your whole body should be cast into hell. And if your right hand offend you, cut it off, and cast it from you: for it is profitable for you that one of your members should perish, and not that your whole body should be cast into hell. It has been said, Whoever will put away his wife, let him give her a writing of divorce: But I say unto you that whoever will put away his wife, saving for the cause of fornication, causes her to commit adultery: and whoever will marry her that is divorced commits adultery. Again, you have heard that it was said to them of old time, You will not perjure yourself, but will perform unto the Lord your oaths: But I say unto you, swear not at all; neither by heaven; for it is God's throne: Nor by the earth; for it is his footstool: neither by Jerusalem; for it is the city of the great King. Neither will you swear by your head, because you can not make one hair white or black. But let your communication be, Yea, yea; nay, nay: for whatsoever is more than these comes from evil. You have heard that it has been said, An eye for an eye, and a tooth for a tooth: But I say unto you, That you repay not evil: but whoever will smite you on your right...

Church doctrine has given us the wrong idea about salvation and our Savior. King Jesus is not hiding in the corner. Jesus said, "strive to enter" into the Kingdom of God. We are expected to work out our salvation; to elevate our light; to be a witness to the world, Don't compromise to avoid persecution. Jesus said to "worry when all men speak well of you." We should expect persecution - "a servant is not greater than his master". ***Chapter 19: The Sermon on the Mount. . . You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hid. Men do not light a candle, and put it under a basket, or under a bed, but on a candlestick; and it gives light unto all that are in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father, which is in heaven. Think not that I am come to destroy the law or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfill. For verily I say unto you, Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle will in no wise pass from the law, till all is fulfilled. Whoever therefore will break one of these least commandments, and will teach men so, he will be called the least in the kingdom of heaven: but whoever will do and teach them, the same will be called great in the kingdom of heaven. For I say unto you, Except your righteousness exceeds the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees, you will in no case enter into the kingdom of heaven. You have heard that it was said to them of old time, You will not kill; and whoever will kill will be in danger of the judgment: But I say unto you That whoever is angry with his brother without a cause will be in danger of the judgment: whoever will say to his brother, Raca, will be in danger of the council: but whoever will say, You fool, will be in danger of hell fire. Therefore, if you bring your gift to the altar, and there remember that your brother has anything against you, Leave there your gift before the altar, and go your way; first be reconciled to your brother, and then come and offer your gift. Agree with your adversary quickly, while you are in the way with him; lest at any time the adversary deliver you to the judge, and the judge deliver you to the officer, and you be cast into prison. Verily I say unto you, You will by no means come out of there, till you have paid the last penny. You have heard that it was said to them of old time, You will not commit adultery: But I say unto you, that whoever looks on a woman to lust after her has committed adultery with her already in his heart. And if your right eye offend you, pluck it out, and cast it from you: for it is profitable for you that one of your members should perish, and not that your whole body should be cast into hell. And if your right hand offend you, cut it off, and cast it from you: for it is profitable for you that one of your members should perish, and not that your whole body should be cast into hell. It has been said, Whoever will put away his wife, let him give her a writing of divorce: But I say unto you that whoever will put away his wife, saving for the cause of fornication, causes her to commit adultery: and whoever will marry her that is divorced commits adultery. Again, you have heard that it was said to them of old time, You will not perjure yourself, but will perform unto the Lord your oaths: But I say unto you, swear not at all; neither by heaven; for it is God's throne: Nor by the earth; for it is his footstool: neither by Jerusalem; for it is the city of the great King. Neither will you swear by your head, because you can not make one hair white or black. But let your communication be, Yea, yea; nay, nay: for whatsoever is more than these comes from evil. You have heard that it has been said, An eye for an eye, and a tooth for a tooth: But I say unto you, That you repay not evil: but whoever will smite you on your...

Believe what you want (i.e. trinity, going to heaven when you die), but don't say it's in the Bible. It isn't. Have you read the Scriptures? Ever? Lately? Many things modern Christians believe are based on tradition or songs. Look it up. Our God, Jesus, says it is our job to follow Him. This path is narrow and unpopular - it leads to personal persecution. And, perhaps sometimes it leads to to the reconciliation of our fellow-man to God. We are to distribute the salt we have been given. Use it up! Suffer-wrongfully for the Kingdom of God. ***Chapter 19: The Sermon on the Mount. . . Salt is good. You are the salt of the earth: but if the salt has lost his savor, with what will it be salted? It is hereafter good for nothing, It is neither fit for the land nor yet for the dunghill, but to be cast out and to be trodden under foot of men. Have salt in yourselves and have peace with one another. You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hid. Men do not light a candle, and put it under a basket, or under a bed, but on a candlestick; and it gives light unto all that are in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father, which is in heaven. Think not that I am come to destroy the law or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfill. For verily I say unto you, Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle will in no wise pass from the law, till all is fulfilled. Whoever therefore will break one of these least commandments, and will teach men so, he will be called the least in the kingdom of heaven: but whoever will do and teach them, the same will be called great in the kingdom of heaven. For I say unto you, Except your righteousness exceeds the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees, you will in no case enter into the kingdom of heaven. You have heard that it was said to them of old time, You will not kill; and whoever will kill will be in danger of the judgment: But I say unto you That whoever is angry with his brother without a cause will be in danger of the judgment: whoever will say to his brother, Raca, will be in danger of the council: but whoever will say, You fool, will be in danger of hell fire. Therefore, if you bring your gift to the altar, and there remember that your brother has anything against you, Leave there your gift before the altar, and go your way; first be reconciled to your brother, and then come and offer your gift. Agree with your adversary quickly, while you are in the way with him; lest at any time the adversary deliver you to the judge, and the judge deliver you to the officer, and you be cast into prison. Verily I say unto you, You will by no means come out of there, till you have paid the last penny. You have heard that it was said to them of old time, You will not commit adultery: But I say unto you, that whoever looks on a woman to lust after her has committed adultery with her already in his heart. And if your right eye offend you, pluck it out, and cast it from you: for it is profitable for you that one of your members should perish, and not that your whole body should be cast into hell. And if your right hand offend you, cut it off, and cast it from you: for it is profitable for you that one of your members should perish, and not that your whole body should be cast into hell. It has been said, Whoever will put away his wife, let him give her a writing of divorce: But I say unto you that whoever will put away his wife, saving for the cause of fornication, causes her to commit adultery: and whoever will marry her that is divorced commits adultery. Again, you have heard that it was said to them of old time, You will not perjure yourself, but will perform unto the Lord your oaths: But I say unto you, swear not at all; neither by heaven; for it is God's throne: Nor by the earth; for it...

The result of false doctrines (i.e., God sits at the end of time knowing all things; waiting for everything to turn out the way He always knew they would) and abundant Bibles creates a sense of familiarity. We overlook the incredible wisdom and instruction of Jesus to our peril.  The Sermon on the Mount is literally the musings, the teachings of the Son of God - endorsed by YHVH from the heavens at the event of the transfiguration. Paul was taught indispensable doctrine by Jesus at Mt. Sinai (Elijah's cave). Paul a Pharisee and a member of the Sanhedrin knew the Scriptures; still he went to the source of the law-giving.  He understood education is not the answer. ***Chapter 19: The Sermon on the MountTHE FAME of Jesus spread so widely that great numbers came to see him from all over the countryside. Seeing the multitudes, Jesus went up into a mountain. There he sat down; and when his disciples came to him, he taught them, saying: "Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of God. Blessed are they that mourn, for they shall be comforted. Blessed are the meek: for they will inherit the earth. Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled. Blessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy. Blessed are the pure in heart: for they shall see God. Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called the children of God. Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteousness' sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are ye, when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely, for my sake. Rejoice and be exceedingly glad, for great is your reward in heaven, for so persecuted they the prophets which were before you." Salt is good. You are the salt of the earth: but if the salt has lost his savor, with what will it be salted? It is hereafter good for nothing, It is neither fit for the land nor yet for the dunghill, but to be cast out and to be trodden under foot of men. Have salt in yourselves and have peace with one another. You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hid. Men do not light a candle, and put it under a basket, or under a bed, but on a candlestick; and it gives light unto all that are in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father, which is in heaven. Think not that I am come to destroy the law or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfill. For verily I say unto you, Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle will in no wise pass from the law, till all is fulfilled. Whoever therefore will break one of these least commandments, and will teach men so, he will be called the least in the kingdom of heaven: but whoever will do and teach them, the same will be called great in the kingdom of heaven. For I say unto you, Except your righteousness exceeds the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees, you will in no case enter into the kingdom of heaven. You have heard that it was said to them of old time, You will not kill; and whoever will kill will be in danger of the judgment: But I say unto you That whoever is angry with his brother without a cause will be in danger of the judgment: whoever will say to his brother, Raca, will be in danger of the council: but whoever will say, You fool, will be in danger of hell fire. Therefore, if you bring your gift to the altar, and there remember that your brother has anything against you, Leave there your gift before the altar, and go your way; first be reconciled to your brother, and then come and offer your gift. Agree with your adversary quickly, while you are in the way with him; lest at any time the adversary deliver you to the judge, and the judge deliver you to the officer, and you be cast into prison. Verily I say unto you, You will by no means come...

When we receive Christ (think of the example of Mary), we receive seeds of potential. We are given rewards for nurturing and bringing forth fruit. We are given "the power to become..." Jesus said, "Who is my mother? . . . whosoever shall do the will of my Father which is in heaven, the same is my brother, and sister, and mother.” Remember Job? Relax. Troubles give us the opportunity to become the person we need to be. Ezekiel 18:20-24 The soul that sinneth, it shall die. The son shall not bear the iniquity of the father, neither shall the father bear the iniquity of the son: the righteousness of the righteous shall be upon him, and the wickedness of the wicked shall be upon him. But if the wicked will turn from all his sins that he hath committed, and keep all my statutes, and do that which is lawful and right, he shall surely live, he shall not die. All his transgressions that he hath committed, they shall not be mentioned unto him: in his righteousness that he hath done he shall live. Have I any pleasure at all that the wicked should die? saith the Lord GOD: and not that he should return from his ways, and live? But when the righteous turneth away from his righteousness, and committeth iniquity, and doeth according to all the abominations that the wicked man doeth, shall he live? All his righteousness that he hath done shall not be mentioned: in his trespass that he hath trespassed, and in his sin that he hath sinned, in them shall he die.***Chapter 19: The Sermon on the Mount - Beatitudes (Part 4)THE FAME of Jesus spread so widely that great numbers came to see him from all over the countryside. Seeing the multitudes, Jesus went up into a mountain. There he sat down; and when his disciples came to him, he taught them, saying: "Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of God. Blessed are they that mourn, for they shall be comforted. Blessed are the meek: for they will inherit the earth. Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled. Blessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy. Blessed are the pure in heart: for they shall see God. Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called the children of God. Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteousness' sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are ye, when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely, for my sake. Rejoice and be exceedingly glad, for great is your reward in heaven, for so persecuted they the prophets which were before you."Matthew 5:1-48, 6:1-34, 7:1-29

"It's not like you think..." Jesus came to teach his people; to be received by his people. The Scriptures and Jesus reveal a gospel we have not known. The Beatitudes in Matthew are based on 'state of mind', 'condition of soul', 'state of being', i.e., “Who we are.”  Luke states, "woe, woe, woe" indicating a certain expectation of judgment. “It’s not like you think." Grace (unmerited favor) became the Protestants' indulgence. Consider Ecclesiasticus 15:20, “He hath commanded no man to do wickedly, neither hath he given any man licence to sin.”  The wrong definition of grace caused us to miss the fruits of grace, i.e., humility (poor in Spirit), meekness, peacemakers, merciful, comforted, filled, etc.  "Believe in me, that I am the Son of God.” I will give you the [power] to become the sons of God. (John 1:12)***Chapter 19: The Sermon on the Mount - Beatitudes (Part 3)THE FAME of Jesus spread so widely that great numbers came to see him from all over the countryside. Seeing the multitudes, Jesus went up into a mountain. There he sat down; and when his disciples came to him, he taught them, saying: "Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of God. Blessed are they that mourn, for they shall be comforted. Blessed are the meek: for they will inherit the earth. Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled. Blessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy. Blessed are the pure in heart: for they shall see God. Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called the children of God. Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteousness' sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are ye, when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely, for my sake. Rejoice and be exceedingly glad, for great is your reward in heaven, for so persecuted they the prophets which were before you."Matthew 5:1-48, 6:1-34, 7:1-29

Jesus does not care what we believe, nor will judgment consist of a "belief test." Saying, "I believe in Jesus" does not mean it's so. Jesus asked, "Why do you call me Lord and not do what I say?" Our daily actions reveal what we believe. The life and death (atonement) of Jesus does not remove the fact that we will one day judged for our actions. Jesus expects faith-and-works or works-and-faith from his people. The Sermon on the Mount reveals the expectation of the Kingdom of God for members, including the rewards and consequences of our behavior.***Chapter 19: The Sermon on the Mount - Beatitudes (Part 2)THE FAME of Jesus spread so widely that great numbers came to see him from all over the countryside. And seeing the multitudes, he went up into a mountain: and when he was set and he lifted up his eyes on his disciples that came unto him, he opened his mouth and taught them saying, Blessed are you poor and poor in spirit: for yours is the kingdom of God.Blessed are you that hunger now: for you will be filled. Blessed are they that mourn and weep now: for they will laugh and be comforted. Blessed are the meek: for they will inherit the earth. Blessed are they that do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they will be filled. Blessed are the merciful: for they will obtain mercy. Blessed are the pure in heart: for they will see God. Blessed are the peacemakers: for they will be called the children of God. Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteousness' sake: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are you, when men will revile, hate and persecute you, and when they will separate you from their company, and will reproach you, and will say all manner of evil against you falsely, for my sake, and cast out your name as evil, for the Son of man's sake. Rejoice in that day, and leap for joy and be exceeding glad: for great is your reward in heaven: for in the like manner did their fathers persecute the prophets who were before you. But woe unto you that are rich! For you have received your consolation. Woe unto you that are full, for you will hunger. Woe unto you that laugh now! For you will mourn and weep. Woe unto you, when all men will speak well of you! For so did their fathers to the false prophets. Matthew 5:1-48, 6:1-34, 7:1-29

THE FAME of Jesus spread so widely that great numbers came to see him from all over the countryside. Seeing the multitudes, Jesus went up into a mountain. There he sat down; and when his disciples came to him, he taught them, saying: "Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of God. Blessed are they that mourn, for they shall be comforted. Blessed are the meek: for they will inherit the earth. Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled. Blessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy. Blessed are the pure in heart: for they shall see God. Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called the children of God. Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteousness' sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are ye, when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely, for my sake. Rejoice and be exceedingly glad, for great is your reward in heaven, for so persecuted they the prophets which were before you."Chapter 19: The Sermon on the Mount - Beatitudes (Part 1)Matthew 5:1-48, 6:1-34, 7:1-29

Compiled by Don Harris (Plain English): The Gospel accounts of the Sermon on the Mount from Matthew, Mark and Luke. And seeing the multitudes, he went up into a mountain: and when he was set and he lifted up his eyes on his disciples that came unto him, he opened his mouth and taught them saying, Blessed are you poor and poor in spirit: for yours is the kingdom of God. Blessed are you that hunger now: for you will be filled. Blessed are they that mourn and weep now: for they will laugh and be comforted. Blessed are the meek: for they will inherit the earth. Blessed are they that do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they will be filled. Blessed are the merciful: for they will obtain mercy. Blessed are the pure in heart: for they will see God. Blessed are the peacemakers: for they will be called the children of God. Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteousness' sake: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are you, when men will revile, hate and persecute you, and when they will separate you from their company, and will reproach you, and will say all manner of evil against you falsely, for my sake, and cast out your name as evil, for the Son of man's sake. Rejoice in that day, and leap for joy and be exceeding glad: for great is your reward in heaven: for in the like manner did their fathers persecute the prophets who were before you. But woe unto you that are rich! For you have received your consolation. Woe unto you that are full, for you will hunger. Woe unto you that laugh now! For you will mourn and weep. Woe unto you, when all men will speak well of you! For so did their fathers to the false prophets. Salt is good. You are the salt of the earth: but if the salt has lost his savor, with what will it be salted? It is hereafter good for nothing, It is neither fit for the land nor yet for the dunghill, but to be cast out and to be trodden under foot of men. Have salt in yourselves and have peace with one another. You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hid. Men do not light a candle, and put it under a basket, or under a bed, but on a candlestick; and it gives light unto all that are in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father, which is in heaven. Think not that I am come to destroy the law or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfill. For verily I say unto you, Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle will in no wise pass from the law, till all is fulfilled. Whoever therefore will break one of these least commandments, and will teach men so, he will be called the least in the kingdom of heaven: but whoever will do and teach them, the same will be called great in the kingdom of heaven. For I say unto you, Except your righteousness exceeds the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees, you will in no case enter into the kingdom of heaven. You have heard that it was said to them of old time, You will not kill; and whoever will kill will be in danger of the judgment: But I say unto you That whoever is angry with his brother without a cause will be in danger of the judgment: whoever will say to his brother, Raca, will be in danger of the council: but whoever will say, You fool, will be in danger of hell fire. Therefore, if you bring your gift to the altar, and there remember that your brother has anything against you, Leave there your gift before the altar, and go your way; first be reconciled to your brother, and then come and offer your gift. Agree with your adversary quickly, while you are in the way with him; lest at any time the adversary deliver you to the judge, and the judge deliver you to the officer, and you be cast into prison. Verily I say unto you, You will by no means come out of there, till you have paid

Jesus had compassion on the people. Throughout the ministry of Christ, he continued to meet the needs of people. When John the Baptist was murdered, Jesus reacted not with thoughts of revenge or retribution, but the Scriptures record Jesus was 'moved with compassion.' Jesus recognized his original plan of 'saving Israel' was not working. ***Chapter 21:  Jesus Raises the Widow’s Son (Part 1)SOON afterwards Jesus set out to visit the city of Nain. His disciples and many people went with him.             When they came near to the gate of the city, they saw a funeral.  The deceased was a young man, the only son of a widow. Many of the people of the city were with her.            When Jesus saw the mother weeping, he was filled with compassion; and he said to her:            “Weep not.”            Then he touched the coffin; they who carried it stood still; and Jesus spoke, saying:            “Young man, I say unto thee, ‘Arise.’”            Thereupon, he who had been dead sat up and began to speak; and Jesus delivered the young man to his mother.             Solemn wonder swept through the crowd.  Some said: “A great prophet is risen up among us. God hath visited his people.”            And throughout all the region this story was spread.***Scriptures:  Luke 7:11-17

The Pharisees side-stepped the question of the authority of Jesus; however, the Centurion recognized and embraced His obvious authority.   “Speak the word…you don’t need to come.”  There appears an unexpected divergence during the ministry of Jesus.  The people expected to receive Jesus rejected him; the heathens and sinners accepted him.  This is our warning.  The antichrist will capture many.  You can bet your socks a delusion sent by God will be good. ***Chapter 20: Jesus Heals The Centurion’s Servant JESUS went to Capernaum after he had delivered the Sermon on the Mount.  A centurion, a Roman military officer, came to him and said:            “Lord, my servant lieth at home, sick of the palsy, grievously tormented.”             Jesus replies:            “I will come and heal him.”            Thereupon the centurion said:             “Lord, I am not worthy that thou shouldst come under my rood. But, speak the word only and my servant shall be healed. For I am a man under authority, having sholdiers under me; and I say to this man, ‘Go,’ and he goeth; and to another, ‘Come,’ and he cometh; and to my servant, ‘Do this’, and he doeth it.”            When Jesus heard these words, revealing the great faith of the centurion, he was deeply impressed and said to those who followed him:            “Verily, I say unto you, ‘I have not found so great faith, no, not in Israel.’  And I say unto you that many shall come from the east and west, and shall sit down with Abraham and Isaac and Jacob, in the kingdom of Heaven.  But the children of the kingdom shall be cast out into outer darkness.  There shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth.”             Jesus said to the centurion:            “Go thy way; and as thou hast believed, so be it done unto thee.”            The servant was healed at that exact moment. ***Scriptures:  Matthew 8:1; Mark 5:13; Luke 7:1-10

There was an expectation among the Jewish people and the religious leaders that “things would change when Messiah came.” Age-old disputes would be settled; the temple would be needed no longer: salvation would come through faith and works, not DNA; Messiah would reign as King and Priest. The law of mercy and not sacrifice would be instituted. Sounds good, right? Yes, until your job is on the line.  It takes vision and the Spirit of God to rejoice through the fulfillment of prophesies. Instead, the Religious Leaders took the untenable position of striving to maintain the status quo.    ***Chapter 18: Jesus Heals A Withered Hand JESUS entered into the synagogue to teach.  In attendance was a man with a withered hand.            The scribes and the Pharisees watched Jesus closely to see if he would heal him since it was still the Sabbath day, thinking they might be able to accuse him.             Jesus knew their thoughts and was grieved at their hardness of heart.  He said to the main with the withered hand:             “Rise up, and stand forth in the midst."When the man had done so, Jesus said to the scribes and Pharisees:            “What man shall there be among you, that shall have one sheep, and if it fall into a pit on the Sabbath day, will he not lay hold on it, and lift it out? How much then is a man better than a sheep? Wherefore it is lawful to do well on the Sabbath days.”             Then Jesus said to the man:             “Stretch forth thine hand.”            When it was extended, it was immediately healed and was as good as the other hand.            Thereupon the scribes and the Pharisees left and conferred among themselves and with the Herodians as to how they might destroy Jesus. ***Matthew 12:9-14; Mark 3:1-6; Luke 6:6-11

"For [Pharisees] bind heavy burdens and grievous to be borne, and lay them on men's shoulders; but they themselves will not move them with one of their fingers." Jesus came to abolish the statutes and ordinances which were added to the law. Most first century Jews, in fact many present-day Jews have an understanding that the temple will no longer be required after Messiah came. ***Chapter 17. JESUS REPLIES TO THE PHARISEES CONCERNING KEEPING THE SABBATH (Part 2)ON A SABBATH day Jesus and his disciples went through a grain field. They were hungry; so the disciples plucked grain and began to eat. When the Pharisees saw this, they said:               “Behold, thy disciples do that which is not lawful to do upon the Sabbath day.”            Jesus replied:    “Have ye not read what David did, when he was hungry, and they that were with him: how he entered into the house of God, and did eat the unleavened bread, which was not lawful for him to eat, neither for them which were with him, but only for the priests? Or have ye not read in the law, how that on the Sabbath days the priests in the temple profane the Sabbath, and are blameless? But I say unto you that in this place is one greater than the temple. But if ye had known what this meaneth: ‘I will have mercy, and not sacrifice,’ ye would not have condemned the guiltless.  The Sabbath was made for man, and not man for the Sabbath.  Therefore the Son of man is Lord also of the Sabbath.”***Matthew 12:1-8; Mark 2:23-28; Luke 6:1-5

It is often reported that the Sabbath was not kept by New Testament Christians. Not only was the seventh-day Sabbath observed by Jesus' disciples, but declared Sabbaths of the Feasts were kept as well. The most important event in the timeline of mankind, the death of Jesus, did not stop the women who wanted to care for his body from keeping the Sabbath Commandment. Read it. However, the fear of judgment for Sabbath violations led the religious leaders to "add to the law." Jesus corrected their theology, "But if ye had known what this means, I will have mercy, and not sacrifice, ye would not have condemned the guiltless." Keeping the Law (10 commandments) opened the door of communication between God and man. ***Chapter 17. JESUS REPLIES TO THE PHARISEES CONCERNING KEEPING THE SABBATH (Part 1)ON A SABBATH day Jesus and his disciples went through a grainfield. They were hungry; so the disciples plucked grain and began to eat. When the Pharisees saw this, they said:               “Behold, thy disciples do that which is not lawful to do upon the Sabbath day.”            Jesus replied:    “Have ye not read what David did, when he was hungry, and they that were with him: how he entered into the house of God, and did eat the unleavened bread, which was not lawful for him to eat, neither for them which were with him, but only for the priests? Or have ye not read in the law, how that on the Sabbath days the priests in the temple profane the Sabbath, and are blameless? But I say unto you that in this place is one greater than the temple. But if ye had known what this meaneth: ‘I will have mercy, and not sacrifice,’ ye would not have condemned the guiltless.  The Sabbath was made for man, and not man for the Sabbath.  Therefore the Son of man is Lord also of the Sabbath.”***Matthew 12:1-8; Mark 2:23-28; Luke 6:1-5

The Scriptures testify of Jesus. Prophets come and go (often martyred) and their clear message goes unheeded. Have courage to personally investigate ideas and dogma inherited from family and professional leadership. Keep the commandments. Take time every day to hear the Word of God. Never, ever violate your conscience. Communication will increase. Believe in Jesus.***Chapter 16. JESUS DECLARES HIS SONSHIP WITH GOD (Part 5)THE AUTHORITIES persecuted Jesus and sought to slay him because he had healed the lame man on the Sabbath and had told him to carry his bed on that day.  Jesus said to them: “My Father worketh hitherto, and I work.”These words angered the authorities further; because Jesus had not only broken the Sabbath but had also said that God was his Father, making himself equal with God.     To his persecutors Jesus replied: “Verily, verily, I say unto you, The Son can do nothing of himself, but what he seeth the Father do: for what things soever he doeth, these also doeth the Son likewise. For the Father loveth the Son, and sheweth him all things that himself doeth: and he will shew him greater works than these, that ye may marvel. For as the Father raiseth up the dead, and quickeneth them; even so the Son quickeneth whom he will. For the Father judgeth no man, but hath committed all judgment unto the Son: That all men should honour the Son, even as they honour the Father. He that honoureth not the Son honoureth not the Father which hath sent him. Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that heareth my word, and believeth on him that sent me, hath everlasting life, and shall not come into condemnation; but is passed from death unto life.  Verily, verily, I say unto you, The hour is coming, and now is, when the dead shall hear the voice of the Son of God: and they that hear shall live. For as the Father hath life in himself; so hath he given to the Son to have life in himself;And hath given him authority to execute judgment also, because he is the Son of man. Marvel not at this: for the hour is coming, in the which all that are in the graves shall hear his voice, And shall come forth; they that have done good, unto the resurrection of life; and they that have done evil, unto the resurrection of damnation.I can of mine own self do nothing: as I hear, I judge: and my judgment is just; because I seek not mine own will, but the will of the Father which hath sent me.  If I bear witness of myself, my witness is not true.”            “There is another that beareth witness of me; and I know that the witness which he witnesseth of me is true.  Ye sent unto John, and he bare witness unto the truth.  But I receive not testimony from man: but these things I say, that ye might be saved.  He was a burning and a shining light: and ye were willing for a season to rejoice in his light.”  “But I have greater witness than that of John: for the works which the Father hath given me to finish, the same works that I do, bear witness of me, that the Father hath sent me.  And the Father himself, which hath sent me, hath borne witness of me. Ye have neither heard his voice at any time, nor seen his shape. And ye have not his word abiding in you: for whom he hath sent, him ye believe not.”   “Search the scriptures; for in them ye think ye have eternal life: and they are they which testify of me.And ye will not come to me, that ye might have life.  I receive not honour from men.  But I know you, that ye have not the love of God in you. I am come in my Father's name, and ye receive me not: if another shall come in his own name, him ye will receive.  How can ye believe, which receive honour one of another, and seek not the honour that cometh from God only? Do not think that I will accuse you to the...

Has Jesus accepted you? Christians must believe-in-Jesus. This is not referring to mental assent or acknowledgement that Jesus is the Son of God. Belief means action. If we believe Jesus is who he claims to be, we will do everything he says to do; we will search the Scripture to learn of his ways; we will implement his ways in our life. It is our duty to do whatever we can do to prove to God that we are on his side. This does not allow a life of 'living-like-the-devil" then being elevated to heaven because of a childhood or deathbed confession. We must go HIS way to have our sins forgiven. They were judged by their actions. Our actions illustrate what we believe in four dimensions. We won't escape that reality on judgment day. ***Chapter 16. JESUS DECLARES HIS SONSHIP WITH GOD (Part 4)THE AUTHORITIES persecuted Jesus and sought to slay him because he had healed the lame man on the Sabbath and had told him to carry his bed on that day.  Jesus said to them: “My Father worketh hitherto, and I work.”These words angered the authorities further; because Jesus had not only broken the Sabbath but had also said that God was his Father, making himself equal with God.     To his persecutors Jesus replied: “Verily, verily, I say unto you, The Son can do nothing of himself, but what he seeth the Father do: for what things soever he doeth, these also doeth the Son likewise. For the Father loveth the Son, and sheweth him all things that himself doeth: and he will shew him greater works than these, that ye may marvel. For as the Father raiseth up the dead, and quickeneth them; even so the Son quickeneth whom he will. For the Father judgeth no man, but hath committed all judgment unto the Son: That all men should honour the Son, even as they honour the Father. He that honoureth not the Son honoureth not the Father which hath sent him. Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that heareth my word, and believeth on him that sent me, hath everlasting life, and shall not come into condemnation; but is passed from death unto life.  Verily, verily, I say unto you, The hour is coming, and now is, when the dead shall hear the voice of the Son of God: and they that hear shall live. For as the Father hath life in himself; so hath he given to the Son to have life in himself;And hath given him authority to execute judgment also, because he is the Son of man. Marvel not at this: for the hour is coming, in the which all that are in the graves shall hear his voice, And shall come forth; they that have done good, unto the resurrection of life; and they that have done evil, unto the resurrection of damnation.I can of mine own self do nothing: as I hear, I judge: and my judgment is just; because I seek not mine own will, but the will of the Father which hath sent me.  If I bear witness of myself, my witness is not true.”            “There is another that beareth witness of me; and I know that the witness which he witnesseth of me is true.  Ye sent unto John, and he bare witness unto the truth.  But I receive not testimony from man: but these things I say, that ye might be saved.  He was a burning and a shining light: and ye were willing for a season to rejoice in his light.”  “But I have greater witness than that of John: for the works which the Father hath given me to finish, the same works that I do, bear witness of me, that the Father hath sent me.  And the Father himself, which hath sent me, hath borne witness of me. Ye have neither heard his voice at any time, nor seen his shape. And ye have not his word abiding in you: for whom he hath sent, him ye believe not.”   “Search the scriptures; for in them ye think ye have eternal life: and they are they which testify of me.And ye will not come to me, that ye might have...

The authority and principals of the Kingdom of God were illustrated throughout the ministry of Jesus. The people rejoiced.  However, the religious leaders were so saturated with preconceived ideas, that though Jesus stood in front of them performing miracles, he was rejected.  Jesus says, "I bear witness to the truth; John the Baptist bare witness of me; my works bear witness of me."  Jesus repeatedly proved his identity.  He that hath ears to hear, let him hear.  Selah.***Chapter 16. JESUS DECLARES HIS SONSHIP WITH GOD (Part 3)THE AUTHORITIES persecuted Jesus and sought to slay him because he had healed the lame man on the Sabbath and had told him to carry his bed on that day.  Jesus said to them: “My Father worketh hitherto, and I work.”These words angered the authorities further; because Jesus had not only broken the Sabbath but had also said that God was his Father, making himself equal with God.     To his persecutors Jesus replied: “Verily, verily, I say unto you, The Son can do nothing of himself, but what he seeth the Father do: for what things soever he doeth, these also doeth the Son likewise. For the Father loveth the Son, and sheweth him all things that himself doeth: and he will shew him greater works than these, that ye may marvel. For as the Father raiseth up the dead, and quickeneth them; even so the Son quickeneth whom he will. For the Father judgeth no man, but hath committed all judgment unto the Son: That all men should honour the Son, even as they honour the Father. He that honoureth not the Son honoureth not the Father which hath sent him. Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that heareth my word, and believeth on him that sent me, hath everlasting life, and shall not come into condemnation; but is passed from death unto life.  Verily, verily, I say unto you, The hour is coming, and now is, when the dead shall hear the voice of the Son of God: and they that hear shall live. For as the Father hath life in himself; so hath he given to the Son to have life in himself;And hath given him authority to execute judgment also, because he is the Son of man. Marvel not at this: for the hour is coming, in the which all that are in the graves shall hear his voice, And shall come forth; they that have done good, unto the resurrection of life; and they that have done evil, unto the resurrection of damnation.I can of mine own self do nothing: as I hear, I judge: and my judgment is just; because I seek not mine own will, but the will of the Father which hath sent me.  If I bear witness of myself, my witness is not true.”            “There is another that beareth witness of me; and I know that the witness which he witnesseth of me is true.  Ye sent unto John, and he bare witness unto the truth.  But I receive not testimony from man: but these things I say, that ye might be saved.  He was a burning and a shining light: and ye were willing for a season to rejoice in his light.”  “But I have greater witness than that of John: for the works which the Father hath given me to finish, the same works that I do, bear witness of me, that the Father hath sent me.  And the Father himself, which hath sent me, hath borne witness of me. Ye have neither heard his voice at any time, nor seen his shape. And ye have not his word abiding in you: for whom he hath sent, him ye believe not.”   “Search the scriptures; for in them ye think ye have eternal life: and they are they which testify of me.And ye will not come to me, that ye might have life.  I receive not honour from men.  But I know you, that ye have not the love of God in you. I am come in my Father's name, and ye receive me not: if another shall come in his own name, him ye will receive.  How...

Jesus was accused of being a sinner because religious leaders alleged he broke the Sabbath commandment. However, violation of religious expectations, traditions or dogma is not sin. Sin is a violation of the Law (the big ten). Jesus always obeyed His Father and never violated His law. The hierarchy in the Kingdom of God is continually illustrated. The Father (YHVH) is in control. The son of God, Jesus, obeys the instructions of His Father.  Listen to the red words -Jesus honors His Father all the time! ***Chapter 16. JESUS DECLARES HIS SONSHIP WITH GOD (Part 2)THE AUTHORITIES persecuted Jesus and sought to slay him because he had healed the lame man on the Sabbath and had told him to carry his bed on that day.  Jesus said to them: “My Father worketh hitherto, and I work.”These words angered the authorities further; because Jesus had not only broken the Sabbath but had also said that God was his Father, making himself equal with God.     To his persecutors Jesus replied: “Verily, verily, I say unto you, The Son can do nothing of himself, but what he seeth the Father do: for what things soever he doeth, these also doeth the Son likewise. For the Father loveth the Son, and sheweth him all things that himself doeth: and he will shew him greater works than these, that ye may marvel. For as the Father raiseth up the dead, and quickeneth them; even so the Son quickeneth whom he will. For the Father judgeth no man, but hath committed all judgment unto the Son: That all men should honour the Son, even as they honour the Father. He that honoureth not the Son honoureth not the Father which hath sent him. Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that heareth my word, and believeth on him that sent me, hath everlasting life, and shall not come into condemnation; but is passed from death unto life.  Verily, verily, I say unto you, The hour is coming, and now is, when the dead shall hear the voice of the Son of God: and they that hear shall live. For as the Father hath life in himself; so hath he given to the Son to have life in himself;And hath given him authority to execute judgment also, because he is the Son of man. Marvel not at this: for the hour is coming, in the which all that are in the graves shall hear his voice, And shall come forth; they that have done good, unto the resurrection of life; and they that have done evil, unto the resurrection of damnation.I can of mine own self do nothing: as I hear, I judge: and my judgment is just; because I seek not mine own will, but the will of the Father which hath sent me.  If I bear witness of myself, my witness is not true.”            “There is another that beareth witness of me; and I know that the witness which he witnesseth of me is true.  Ye sent unto John, and he bare witness unto the truth.  But I receive not testimony from man: but these things I say, that ye might be saved.  He was a burning and a shining light: and ye were willing for a season to rejoice in his light.”  “But I have greater witness than that of John: for the works which the Father hath given me to finish, the same works that I do, bear witness of me, that the Father hath sent me.  And the Father himself, which hath sent me, hath borne witness of me. Ye have neither heard his voice at any time, nor seen his shape. And ye have not his word abiding in you: for whom he hath sent, him ye believe not.”   “Search the scriptures; for in them ye think ye have eternal life: and they are they which testify of me.And ye will not come to me, that ye might have life.  I receive not honour from men.  But I know you, that ye have not the love of God in you. I am come in my Father's name, and ye receive me not: if another shall come in his own name, him ye will...

The obedience of Jesus and the-work-of-the-Father caused Jesus’ actions stand out. Jesus spoke with authority and "not as the Scribes".  He did not follow the practices of the Pharisees or other man-made sects.  Jesus obeyed His Father, YHVH.  The works of Jesus made his position obvious to the religious leadership, the people and the government. The Scriptures record “For [Pilot] knew that for envy they had delivered [Jesus].” Humility is required to hear correction.***Chapter 16. JESUS DECLARES HIS SONSHIP WITH GOD (Part 1)THE AUTHORITIES persecuted Jesus and sought to slay him because he had healed the lame man on the Sabbath and had told him to carry his bed on that day.  Jesus said to them: “My Father worketh hitherto, and I work.”These words angered the authorities further; because Jesus had not only broken the Sabbath but had also said that God was his Father, making himself equal with God.     To his persecutors Jesus replied: “Verily, verily, I say unto you, The Son can do nothing of himself, but what he seeth the Father do: for what things soever he doeth, these also doeth the Son likewise. For the Father loveth the Son, and sheweth him all things that himself doeth: and he will shew him greater works than these, that ye may marvel. For as the Father raiseth up the dead, and quickeneth them; even so the Son quickeneth whom he will. For the Father judgeth no man, but hath committed all judgment unto the Son: That all men should honour the Son, even as they honour the Father. He that honoureth not the Son honoureth not the Father which hath sent him. Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that heareth my word, and believeth on him that sent me, hath everlasting life, and shall not come into condemnation; but is passed from death unto life.  Verily, verily, I say unto you, The hour is coming, and now is, when the dead shall hear the voice of the Son of God: and they that hear shall live. For as the Father hath life in himself; so hath he given to the Son to have life in himself;And hath given him authority to execute judgment also, because he is the Son of man. Marvel not at this: for the hour is coming, in the which all that are in the graves shall hear his voice, And shall come forth; they that have done good, unto the resurrection of life; and they that have done evil, unto the resurrection of damnation.I can of mine own self do nothing: as I hear, I judge: and my judgment is just; because I seek not mine own will, but the will of the Father which hath sent me.  If I bear witness of myself, my witness is not true.”            “There is another that beareth witness of me; and I know that the witness which he witnesseth of me is true.  Ye sent unto John, and he bare witness unto the truth.  But I receive not testimony from man: but these things I say, that ye might be saved.  He was a burning and a shining light: and ye were willing for a season to rejoice in his light.”  “But I have greater witness than that of John: for the works which the Father hath given me to finish, the same works that I do, bear witness of me, that the Father hath sent me.  And the Father himself, which hath sent me, hath borne witness of me. Ye have neither heard his voice at any time, nor seen his shape. And ye have not his word abiding in you: for whom he hath sent, him ye believe not.”   “Search the scriptures; for in them ye think ye have eternal life: and they are they which testify of me.And ye will not come to me, that ye might have life.  I receive not honour from men.  But I know you, that ye have not the love of God in you. I am come in my Father's name, and ye receive me not: if another shall come in his own name, him ye will...

Sounds easy, right? It is easy. You just have to give up your right to do as you please. Religion added many traditions, fences, even indulgencies, to interpret the Will-of-God. Jesus came to remove the barriers caused by rebellion and religion to restore the relationship between man and God. Relationships require time and commitment even in the kingdom of God. We can come to God as-we-are and be made whole, but something is required to maintain that status. ***Wilt Thou Be Made Whole (Part 5) CHAPTER 15:  JESUS HEALS A LAME MANIN JERUSALEM, by the sheep market, was the Pool of Bethesda.  Beside it lay a great multitude of invalids—the lame, blind, withered, and bedridden—all waiting for the moving of the water; because at certain times an angel went down into the pool and troubled the water.  Then, whoever was the first to enter the water after its troubling, was cured of whatever disease or infirmity he had.            Jesus, one day, walked beside the Pool of Bethesda and saw a man there who had been infirm and lame for thirty-eight years.  Realizing that he had been so long infirm, Jesus spoke to him, saying;             “Wilt thou be made whole?”            The lame man answered:            “Sir, I have no man, when the water is troubled, to put me into the pool; but while I am coming, another steppeth down before me.”            Jesus said to him:            “Rise, take up thy bed, and walk.”            Immediately the man was healed.  He took up his bed and walked away.            This miracle came to pass on the Sabbath.  The Jews, therefore, stoppedthe man who had been cured, saying:             “It is the Sabbath day.  It is not lawful for thee to carry thy bed.”            He answered:            “He that made me whole, the same said unto me, “Take up thy bed, and walk.”            The Jews asked him:            “What man is that which said unto thee, ‘Take up thy bed, and walk’?”             But he who had been healed did not know who his benefactor was, because Jesus had left to avoid the crowd in that place.            Later Jesus found him in the temple and said to him:            “Behold, thou art made whole.  Sin no more, lest a worse thing come unto thee.”             The man departed and told the Jews that it was Jesus who had healed him.

"The least you can do is pray.” Is that right? The Eternal God is not subject to our wishes or demands. Scriptures say, 'The effectual fervent prayers of a righteous man availeth much.' We must live in a manner to hear the voice of God to have the wisdom to pray. Jesus always acted in obedience to his Father. We should follow His example. *** Wilt Thou Be Made Whole (Part 4)CHAPTER 15:  JESUS HEALS A LAME MANIN JERUSALEM, by the sheep market, was the Pool of Bethesda.  Beside it lay a great multitude of invalids—the lame, blind, withered, and bedridden—all waiting for the moving of the water; because at certain times an angel went down into the pool and troubled the water.  Then, whoever was the first to enter the water after its troubling, was cured of whatever disease or infirmity he had.            Jesus, one day, walked beside the Pool of Bethesda and saw a man there who had been infirm and lame for thirty-eight years.  Realizing that he had been so long infirm, Jesus spoke to him, saying;             “Wilt thou be made whole?”            The lame man answered:            “Sir, I have no man, when the water is troubled, to put me into the pool; but while I am coming, another steppeth down before me.”            Jesus said to him:            “Rise, take up thy bed, and walk.”            Immediately the man was healed.  He took up his bed and walked away.            This miracle came to pass on the Sabbath.  The Jews, therefore, stopped the man who had been cured, saying:             “It is the Sabbath day.  It is not lawful for thee to carry thy bed.”            He answered:            “He that made me whole, the same said unto me, “Take up thy bed, and walk.”            The Jews asked him:            “What man is that which said unto thee, ‘Take up thy bed, and walk’?”             But he who had been healed did not know who his benefactor was, because Jesus had left to avoid the crowd in that place.            Later Jesus found him in the temple and said to him:             “Behold, thou art made whole.  Sin no more, lest a worse thing come unto thee.”             The man departed and told the Jews that it was Jesus who had healed him.

Honesty is a rare commodity. Do you want to be made whole? It's a serious question. Infirmity can become an identity with distinction. There are limitations and perhaps discomforts, but after many years there are reduced demands in life. "I'm handicapped" is a great excuse; "I'm whole" restores a flood of responsibilities - and expectations. Obedience and faith is required to become "little Christ's". Keep the commandments, take time every day to hear the voice of God and never, ever violate what we know is the right thing to do. ***Wilt Thou Be Made Whole (Part 3)CHAPTER 15:  JESUS HEALS A LAME MANIN JERUSALEM, by the sheep market, was the Pool of Bethesda.  Beside it lay a great multitude of invalids—the lame, blind, withered, and bedridden—all waiting for the moving of the water; because at certain times an angel went down into the pool and troubled the water.  Then, whoever was the first to enter the water after its troubling, was cured of whatever disease or infirmity he had.            Jesus, one day, walked beside the Pool of Bethesda and saw a man there who had been infirm and lame for thirty-eight years.  Realizing that he had been so long infirm, Jesus spoke to him, saying;             “Wilt thou be made whole?”            The lame man answered:            “Sir, I have no man, when the water is troubled, to put me into the pool; but while I am coming, another steppeth down before me.”            Jesus said to him:            “Rise, take up thy bed, and walk.”            Immediately the man was healed.  He took up his bed and walked away.            This miracle came to pass on the Sabbath.  The Jews, therefore, stoppedthe man who had been cured, saying:             “It is the Sabbath day.  It is not lawful for thee to carry thy bed.”            He answered:            “He that made me whole, the same said unto me, “Take up thy bed, and walk.”            The Jews asked him:            “What man is that which said unto thee, ‘Take up thy bed, and walk’?”             But he who had been healed did not know who his benefactor was, because Jesus had left to avoid the crowd in that place.            Later Jesus found him in the temple and said to him:            “Behold, thou art made whole.  Sin no more, lest a worse thing come unto thee.”             The man departed and told the Jews that it was Jesus who had healed him.

Over time disability or illness becomes a familiar routine. Expectations from family or others diminish. Perhaps charity or a SSI check comes to relieve the burdens of life. It's easy to blame circumstances, even God, for the condition in which we find ourselves. It should be obvious that wholeness is desired. However, the man who encounters Jesus will not be able to continue in life as usual. Things must change. Things will change. Jesus wants us in the Kingdom of God. ***Wilt Thou Be Made Whole (Part 2)CHAPTER 15:  JESUS HEALS A LAME MANIN JERUSALEM, by the sheep market, was the Pool of Bethesda.  Beside it lay a great multitude of invalids—the lame, blind, withered, and bedridden—all waiting for the moving of the water; because at certain times an angel went down into the pool and troubled the water.  Then, whoever was the first to enter the water after its troubling, was cured of whatever disease or infirmity he had.            Jesus, one day, walked beside the Pool of Bethesda and saw a man there who had been infirm and lame for thirty-eight years.  Realizing that he had been so long infirm, Jesus spoke to him, saying;             “Wilt thou be made whole?”            The lame man answered:            “Sir, I have no man, when the water is troubled, to put me into the pool; but while I am coming, another steppeth down before me.”            Jesus said to him:            “Rise, take up thy bed, and walk.”            Immediately the man was healed.  He took up his bed and walked away.            This miracle came to pass on the Sabbath.  The Jews, therefore, stoppedthe man who had been cured, saying:             “It is the Sabbath day.  It is not lawful for thee to carry thy bed.”            He answered:            “He that made me whole, the same said unto me, “Take up thy bed, and walk.”            The Jews asked him:            “What man is that which said unto thee, ‘Take up thy bed, and walk’?”             But he who had been healed did not know who his benefactor was, because Jesus had left to avoid the crowd in that place.            Later Jesus found him in the temple and said to him:            “Behold, thou art made whole.  Sin no more, lest a worse thing come unto thee.”             The man departed and told the Jews that it was Jesus who had healed him.

"The poor you will have with you always." There are many things that we do not understand. There are many things we don't need to understand. What is relevant to our lives will be revealed by the Spirit of God, if we live in a manner conducive to hearing instruction. Specifically, keep the ten commandments; take time every day to hear from God (meditation, silent prayer); and never, ever violate your conscience. Truth is revealed by the Spirit of God. Healing pools of water and lottery healing are not consistent with the actions and personality of YHVH. ***Wilt Thou Be Made Whole (Part 1)CHAPTER 15:  JESUS HEALS A LAME MANIN JERUSALEM, by the sheep market, was the Pool of Bethesda.  Beside it lay a great multitude of invalids—the lame, blind, withered, and bedridden—all waiting for the moving of the water; because at certain times an angel went down into the pool and troubled the water.  Then, whoever was the first to enter the water after its troubling, was cured of whatever disease or infirmity he had.            Jesus, one day, walked beside the Pool of Bethesda and saw a man there who had been infirm and lame for thirty-eight years.  Realizing that he had been so long infirm, Jesus spoke to him, saying;             “Wilt thou be made whole?”            The lame man answered:            “Sir, I have no man, when the water is troubled, to put me into the pool; but while I am coming, another steppeth down before me.”            Jesus said to him:            “Rise, take up thy bed, and walk.”            Immediately the man was healed.  He took up his bed and walked away.            This miracle came to pass on the Sabbath.  The Jews, therefore, stoppedthe man who had been cured, saying:             “It is the Sabbath day.  It is not lawful for thee to carry thy bed.”            He answered:            “He that made me whole, the same said unto me, “Take up thy bed, and walk.”            The Jews asked him:            “What man is that which said unto thee, ‘Take up thy bed, and walk’?”             But he who had been healed did not know who his benefactor was, because Jesus had left to avoid the crowd in that place.            Later Jesus found him in the temple and said to him:            “Behold, thou art made whole.  Sin no more, lest a worse thing come unto thee.”             The man departed and told the Jews that it was Jesus who had healed him.

"I'll pray about it." A quick phrase or action often used to relieve responsibility. The prayer makes the issue God's problem. Oh, boy. Can we be honest for a change? Fasting is to make us the person we need to be. We need guidance. Since John the Baptist, we are in a new and living way. New wine. New bottle. New covenant. Jesus brought the power [grace] to become a child of God. The new bottle is sound theology. Fantasy and dishonesty cannot contain the grace of God.***CHAPTER 14: JESUS EXPLAINS HIS ATTITUDE ON FASTING (PART 5) THE DISCIPLES of John the Baptist and of the Pharisees came to Jesus, troubled in theirhearts, asking:            “Why do the disciples of John and of the Pharisees fast, but thy disciples fast not?”            “Jesus replied:            “Can ye make the children of the bridechamber fast, while the bridegroom is with them?  But the days will come, when the bridegroom shall be taken away from them, and then shall they fast in those days.            “No man putteth a piece of a new garment upon an old; if otherwise, then both the new maketh a rent, and the piece that was taken out of the new agreeth not with the old.  And no man putteth new wine into old bottles [skins]; else the new wine will burst the bottles [skins], and be spilled, and the bottles [skins] shall perish.  But new wine must be put into new bottles [skins]; and both are preserved.  No man also having drunk old wine straightway desireth new; for he saith, ‘The old is better’.” ***You will die in your sins - if you don't believe in me; - Jesus taught by example (not teacher/student); 1-2-3; - believe in me; - truth will set you free; son abides forever; fornication; tell you the truth, why do you not believe?; Before Abraham - I AM; immortality - Jesus only hath; first fruits of many brethern, - never see death; - dead, yet shall ye live; - die in sins if doesn't believe that I AM WHO I SAY I AM; never see death of soul, fear Him who can kill both body and soul; wages of sin is death; death is not equal to destruction 

CHAPTER 14:  JESUS EXPLAINS HIS ATTITUDE ON FASTING (PART 4)THE DISCIPLES of John the Baptist and of the Pharisees came to Jesus, troubled in theirhearts, asking:            “Why do the disciples of John and of the Pharisees fast, but thy disciples fast not?”            “Jesus replied:            “Can ye make the children of the bridechamber fast, while the bridegroom is with them?  But the days will come, when the bridegroom shall be taken away from them, and then shall they fast in those days.            “No man putteth a piece of a new garment upon an old; if otherwise, then both the new maketh a rent, and the piece that was taken out of the new agreeth not with the old.  And no man putteth new wine into old bottles [skins]; else the new wine will burst the bottles [skins], and be spilled, and the bottles [skins] shall perish.  But new wine must be put into new bottles [skins]; and both are preserved.  No man also having drunk old wine straightway desireth new; for he saith, ‘The old is better’.” ***Light of the world; "Light of Life"; walk in darkness (stumble); Deny, Die, Follow; Follow Jesus - not walking in darkness; We show the light to the world by our lives; Scriptural witness - give an answer to the hope in us; if the world is not asking…no light is shinning (OH NO!); government rules for isreal in the Scriptures; Jews accused "record of yourself..."; 2 or 3 witnesses to establish a matter; Part of Israel; Sworn to truth already; no law against it (i.e. abortion) - doesn't make it right; Muslims, Jews, Christians - people of the book; - We ARE NOT PEOPLE OF THE BOOK

CHAPTER 14:  JESUS EXPLAINS HIS ATTITUDE ON FASTING (PART 3)THE DISCIPLES of John the Baptist and of the Pharisees came to Jesus, troubled in theirhearts, asking:            “Why do the disciples of John and of the Pharisees fast, but thy disciples fast not?”            “Jesus replied:            “Can ye make the children of the bridechamber fast, while the bridegroom is with them?  But the days will come, when the bridegroom shall be taken away from them, and then shall they fast in those days.            “No man putteth a piece of a new garment upon an old; if otherwise, then both the new maketh a rent, and the piece that was taken out of the new agreeth not with the old.  And no man putteth new wine into old bottles [skins]; else the new wine will burst the bottles [skins], and be spilled, and the bottles [skins] shall perish.  But new wine must be put into new bottles [skins]; and both are preserved.  No man also having drunk old wine straightway desireth new; for he saith, ‘The old is better’.” ***Scriptures are written; Word of God is Jesus; - Who told you that?; verbal instructions from God (Jews added fences/laws); my hour is not yet come (not this, not right now); "where I go…" Jesus had confidence in the Father; LAST GREAT DAY; - water moving by bucket; Jesus says, "I'm over here...I have the water..."; Jesus spoke of the Spirit; "what we know..." is not always correct!; from Bethlehem (arguing a mute point) Galillee?; - "caught in the act" Moses says... - "What sayeth thou?"; JESUS ALWAYS OBEYED HIS FATHER - IN THE SPIRIT - NOT UNDER THE LAW; expected a conflict w/Moses - Jesus said, "I agree... He without sin - come on..."

CHAPTER 14:  JESUS EXPLAINS HIS ATTITUDE ON FASTING (PART 2)THE DISCIPLES of John the Baptist and of the Pharisees came to Jesus, troubled in theirhearts, asking:            “Why do the disciples of John and of the Pharisees fast, but thy disciples fast not?”            “Jesus replied:            “Can ye make the children of the bridechamber fast, while the bridegroom is with them?  But the days will come, when the bridegroom shall be taken away from them, and then shall they fast in those days.            “No man putteth a piece of a new garment upon an old; if otherwise, then both the new maketh a rent, and the piece that was taken out of the new agreeth not with the old.  And no man putteth new wine into old bottles [skins]; else the new wine will burst the bottles [skins], and be spilled, and the bottles [skins] shall perish.  But new wine must be put into new bottles [skins]; and both are preserved.  No man also having drunk old wine straightway desireth new; for he saith, ‘The old is better’.” *** Why Jesus did what he did; Learned? How? - not taught of man; Understanding? How?Spoke not as the Scribes; AUTHORITY! Jesus exuded the idea of authority (humble, meek - lived as an example of what I want for you); How? b/c "My doctrine is not mine…; doctrine of God who sent me; anyone who does HIS WILL shall know; we preach what is in our lives; Spirit teaches what we need to know; Religion & Education will not get our Character Upgraded;  seeking God's glory - great!; seeking personal glory - problem! unrighteousness; Moses? none of you keep the law; traditions/idioms stop the ears of the people; can't be Messiah b/c... "we expected something else"

CHAPTER 14:  JESUS EXPLAINS HIS ATTITUDE ON FASTINGTHE DISCIPLES of John the Baptist and of the Pharisees came to Jesus, troubled in theirhearts, asking:            “Why do the disciples of John and of the Pharisees fast, but thy disciples fast not?”            “Jesus replied:            “Can ye make the children of the bridechamber fast, while the bridegroom is with them?  But the days will come, when the bridegroom shall be taken away from them, and then shall they fast in those days.            “No man putteth a piece of a new garment upon an old; if otherwise, then both the new maketh a rent, and the piece that was taken out of the new agreeth not with the old.  And no man putteth new wine into old bottles [skins]; else the new wine will burst the bottles [skins], and be spilled, and the bottles [skins] shall perish.  But new wine must be put into new bottles [skins]; and both are preserved.  No man also having drunk old wine straightway desireth new; for he saith, ‘The old is better’.” ***Word of God, Feast of Tabernacles, Spiritual Israel, Wrestle with God; STRIVE to BECOME ISRAEL; Ministry of Jesus was under the Old Testament; three time a year shall all thy males… COMMANDMENT; Jesus Led by the Spirit (live under the law - hear the Spirit); Calendar of YHVH; Disciples didn't believe yet (actually didn't understand Jesus' purposes; Jews were excommunicated when they followed Christ); "No man can take you out of my hand..." - not eternal security; Jesus assured the people - I'm your Shephard; synagogue (church) membership isn't a requirement; Faith is shown by Works;

***CHAPTER 13:  JESUS CALLS MATTHEW TO BE A DISCIPLEAFTER THE miraculous cure of the paralytic, Jesus left the house and, as he passed along, saw Matthew, known as Levi, the son of Alpheus, sitting in the customhouse-where he performed his duties as tax collector.  Jesus said to him:             “Follow me.”            Matthew arose and followed him.            Later Jesus sat down to a meal in Matthew’s house.  With him were his disciples and many tax collectors and sinners.            Pharisees and scribes who saw them eating together were surprised and said to the disciples:            “Why do ye eat and drink with publicans and sinners?”            Jesus, hearing them, said:            “They that are whole need not a physician; but they that are sick.  I came not to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.”

The fact of truth erases false doctrine. Like a wrong imagination about a place you have never been, once you have visited, facts replace the wrong ideas. “Do ye now believe?” asks Jesus.We must confront the words of Jesus with faith in his authority, knowing that Jesus is who he says he is. When Jesus spoke it was not an idle opinion or recitation.  Jesus spoke, in obedience to the Father, with the authority to bring to pass the words he was given to speak.  Truth makes us free.  Have courage to hold fast to that which is true; irrespective of what tradition or fallacy is in the way.  This leads to another red letter question from Jesus, “Wilt thou be made whole?”  We must be diligent to remove revealed false doctrines or more false doctrines will follow. ***Chapter 12 (Part 3) Jesus Heals A ParalyticSOON THEREAFTER Jesus was back at Capernaum.  Word spread that he was there and great multitudes came to be taught and to receive favors at his hands. One day, as he was teaching, there was brought to him a paralytic, carried by four men.  So great was the press of people, the bearers of the bed were unable to enter the doors of the house where Jesus was speaking.  Accordingly they climbed with their burden onto the roof, made a hole, and lowered the pallet and paralytic into the midst of the group around Jesus.  When he saw this display of faith, Jesus said to the paralyzed man:  “Son, be of good cheer; thy sins be forgiven thee.” When they heard this, the scribes and Pharisees who were present reasoned among themselves, saying: “Why does this man thus speak blasphemies? Who can forgive sins but God alone?” Jesus knowing their thoughts, said: “What reason ye in your hearts? Which is easier, to say, ‘Thy sins be forgiven thee’; or to say, ‘Rise up and walk’?  But, that ye may know that the Son of man hath power upon earth to forgive sins,” – Turning to the paralytic, Jesus said: “Arise, take up thy bed, and go unto thine own house.” Immediately the man arose before the eyes of all who were there.  He picked up his pallet and departed to his own house, glorifying God. And the multitude who saw this miracle were amazed. They, too, glorified God and were filled with awe, saying: “We have seen strange things today.”

Are you looking for answers? A full mind, sometimes called a closed mind, is in no position to receive new information. This is true, even when the information is desired and sought after. To hear something new, we must loosen our tight-fisted grip on current opinions which are comfortable.  We realize the risk as new information may be contrary to traditional views.  This is the difficulty experienced by the Scribes and Pharisees in the Scripture.  We must strive to avoid the same pitfalls.  Do you believe what you believe in spite of evidence or even in the light of contrary evidence?  In this episode, Don discusses death and judgment. These subjects are so uncomfortable, that most people will not tolerate a sober conversation.  Friend, the consideration of death and judgment is for our benefit.  Don’t put it off.  ***Chapter 12 (Part 2) Jesus Heals A ParalyticSOON THEREAFTER Jesus was back at Capernaum.  Word spread that he was there and great multitudes came to be taught and to receive favors at his hands. One day, as he was teaching, there was brought to him a paralytic, carried by four men.  So great was the press of people, the bearers of the bed were unable to enter the doors of the house where Jesus was speaking.  Accordingly they climbed with their burden onto the roof, made a hole, and lowered the pallet and paralytic into the midst of the group around Jesus.  When he saw this display of faith, Jesus said to the paralyzed man:  “Son, be of good cheer; thy sins be forgiven thee.” When they heard this, the scribes and Pharisees who were present reasoned among themselves, saying: “Why does this man thus speak blasphemies? Who can forgive sins but God alone?” Jesus knowing their thoughts, said: “What reason ye in your hearts? Which is easier, to say, ‘Thy sins be forgiven thee’; or to say, ‘Rise up and walk’?  But, that ye may know that the Son of man hath power upon earth to forgive sins,” – Turning to the paralytic, Jesus said: “Arise, take up thy bed, and go unto thine own house.” Immediately the man arose before the eyes of all who were there.  He picked up his pallet and departed to his own house, glorifying God. And the multitude who saw this miracle were amazed. They, too, glorified God and were filled with awe, saying: “We have seen strange things today.”

In this chapter, friends of the paralytic put forth radical effort to get help for their friend. Ignoring protocol, perceived guilt and physical obstacles, they went directly to Jesus for healing.  To their surprise Jesus addressed, the underlying concern, sin.  To this day we believe calamity has to be attached to something we did wrong.  “I don’t measure up to God’s standard.”  Even if we deserve bad things to happen to us, how does that help? We forget. Jesus didn’t come to condemn us. He came to save us.  “Who did sin, this man or his parents?” Jesus continually said, “It’s not like you think.”    According to the Scriptures, “All things come alike to all: there is one event to the righteous, and to the wicked; to the good and to the clean, and to the unclean…” We must strive to reconcile with our God in spite of our circumstances.  ***Chapter 12 (Part 1) - Jesus Heals a ParalyticSOON THEREAFTER Jesus was back at Capernaum.  Word spread that he was there and great multitudes came to be taught and to receive favors at his hands. One day, as he was teaching, there was brought to him a paralytic, carried by four men.  So great was the press of people, the bearers of the bed were unable to enter the doors of the house where Jesus was speaking.  Accordingly they climbed with their burden onto the roof, made a hole, and lowered the pallet and paralytic into the midst of the group around Jesus.  When he saw this display of faith, Jesus said to the paralyzed man:  “Son, be of good cheer; thy sins be forgiven thee.” When they heard this, the scribes and Pharisees who were present reasoned among themselves, saying: “Why does this man thus speak blasphemies? Who can forgive sins but God alone?” Jesus knowing their thoughts, said: “What reason ye in your hearts? Which is easier, to say, ‘Thy sins be forgiven thee’; or to say, ‘Rise up and walk’?  But, that ye may know that the Son of man hath power upon earth to forgive sins,” – Turning to the paralytic, Jesus said: “Arise, take up thy bed, and go unto thine own house.” Immediately the man arose before the eyes of all who were there.  He picked up his pallet and departed to his own house, glorifying God. And the multitude who saw this miracle were amazed. They, too, glorified God and were filled with awe, saying: “We have seen strange things today.”

Jesus went about all Galilee demonstrating his authority, his mission and his ministry. It was the expectation of Jesus that the religious leaders would recognize him by revelation or by faith because of the works he did. In this chapter, Jesus instructed the healed leper to show himself to the priests and tell no one. However, rather than keep silent, the leper told everyone what happened to him. The objective of Jesus was to win the priests. The leper's press release caused crowds to form around Jesus and hinder the ministry planned for the area. Additionally, the increase in popularity created envy in the church leadership. Do you know what Jesus said? Do you know what Jesus did? Do you know what Jesus said to do? ***Chapter 11: Jesus Heals A Leper (Part 2)WHILE JESUS was in one of the cities, a leper came to him. The diseased man knelt before him and besought his aid, saying:"If thouwilt, thou canst make me clean."Jesus, moved with compassion, put forth his hand and touched the leper, saying:"I will; be thou clean."Immediately upon the words and the compassionate touch the leprosy left the man.Jesus then instructed:"See thou say nothing to any man. But go thy way, show thyself to the priest, and offer for thy cleansing those things which Moses commanded, for a testimony unto them."But the man did not control his tongue. He spoke widely of the event and the fame of Jesus spread so greatly that he could no longer openly enter the city. He remained outside and multitudes came to him from every direction. ***Matthew 8:2-4; Mark 1:40-45; Luke 5:12-16

Attacking or discrediting the validity of the Scriptures, does not remove the internal knowledge in every man of "the right thing to do". Nevertheless, understanding brings responsibility, so we seek to obtain evidence, to postpone the verdict; leaving the jury out, so to speak. When it comes to Jesus we know there is a cost to believing in him. Jesus did not operate his ministry with modern evangelistic practice or accepted modern marketing practices. Jesus searched for men to whom he had been revealed by the Father. Remember when Jesus asked his disciples, "Who do men say that I am?" It was a test. "Who do you say that I am?" Peter blurted, "Thou art the Christ, the son of the living God." Jesus did not commend the yeshiva or Sunday school class curriculum. Jesus declared plainly, "Blessed art thou, Simon Barjona: for flesh and blood hath not revealed it unto thee, but my Father which is in heaven." "...Then charged he his disciples that they should tell no man that he was Jesus the Christ...” Instructions were given to the healed leper to provide evidence to the temple priests. Jesus' was seeking those to whom he had been revealed. Healing lepers, blind men and other miracles was an anticipated evidence of Messiah. Sadly, the leaders rejected Jesus as Messiah. The echoes of "We will not have this man reign over us" resound to this day. ***Chapter 11: JESUS HEALS A LEPER (Part 1)WHILE JESUS was in one of the cities, a leper came to him. The diseased man knelt before him and besought his aid, saying:"If thouwilt, thou canst make me clean."Jesus, moved with compassion, put forth his hand and touched the leper, saying:"I will; be thou clean."Immediately upon the words and the compassionate touch the leprosy left the man.Jesus then instructed:"See thou say nothing to any man. But go thy way, show thyself to the priest, and offer for thy cleansing those things which Moses commanded, for a testimony unto them."But the man did not control his tongue. He spoke widely of the event and the fame of Jesus spread so greatly that he could no longer openly enter the city. He remained outside and multitudes came to him from every direction. ***Matthew 8:2-4; Mark 1:40-45; Luke 5:12-16

Can you imagine Jesus with short hair, no beard and blue jeans? Or must he wear a robe and carry a lamb? We have filters that preclude revelation and understanding from God. Our wrong expectations create disappointment and hinder our understanding.  Are you angry with God for a false pulpit promise? Jesus delineated a life of persecution and difficulty for His followers – not popularity and prosperity.  He spoke of suffering and life beyond this life, not unending healing for the elderly.  When you experience the gospel through a daily walk with Jesus you will encounter things that are contrary to modern ideas of evangelism, marketing and Christianity. A striking example in this chapter is when Jesus understands that “all men seek after him”; he responds by saying “let’s go to another town;” (not get a bigger stadium).  His work was complete.  Jesus is not an ATM machine to serve us. It is our job to work out our salvation in fear and trembling, in so doing we will show the world the hope that is in us. The book referenced in this episode is“The Art of Clear Thinking” by Rudolf Flesch.  ***Chapter 10: Jesus Heals an Insane Man (Part 2)ON A SABBATH Jesus went into the synagogue at Capernaum and taught the congregation. His listeners were surprised because he taught as one with authority of others.One of the men present had an unclean spirit. He cried out saying:"Let us alone. What have we to do with thee, thou Jesus of Nazareth? Art thou come todestroy us? I know these who thou art, 'the Holy One of God.'"Jesus rebuked the devil in the man, saying:"Hold thy peace, and come out of him."The unclean spirit thereupon cried out with a loud voice. It tormented the man, causing himto writhe greatly; but it came out of him. All who were present were astonishedand said among themselves:"What thing is this? What new doctrine is this? For with authority commandeth he eventhe unclean spirits, and they do obey him."And the fame of Jesus spread abroad, all about the region of Galilee.Later Jesus went to a solitary place to pray. Great numbers came seeking him. When hisdisciples found him, they said:"All men seek for thee."Jesus replied: "Let us go into the next towns, that I may preach there also, for therefore came Iforth."And Jesus preached in the synagogues throughout Galilee and cast out devils. ***

When we give God the traditional attributes of omniscience, omnipresence and omnipotence it is easy to arrive at the conclusion of predestination and a sense of finality that is contrary to the story told in the Scriptures.  There is much to be gained by removing the knowledge of the end of the story of Jesus’ life when we study the gospels.  Let's forgo the thought that everything happened just as God knew it would. Instead let us walk with Jesus as he discovers mankind, how men think and what it is like to live in a human body.  Scriptures record in Philippians, “[Christ Jesus] made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men:”  It is proper to study the life of Jesus as an example of how we are to live.  See how many times it is recorded that Jesus went apart to be alone and listen to the Father.  Imagine, if you can, a God who lives with us every day and who provides revelation and instruction.  Jesus said it this way, if you keep my commandments, the Father and I will lead and guide you from the inside.  (Not guide us from the pulpit, nor guide us from the Scriptures, but guide us from the inside.)  Our actions (our obedience), is vital to open the lines of communication with our God.    Here’s the Scriptures: “Jesus answered and said unto him, If a man love me, he will keep my words: and my Father will love him, and we will come unto him, and make our abode with him.” John 14"...one is your [Teacher], even Christ.” Matt. 23***Chapter 10: Jesus Heals an Insane Man (Part 1)ON A SABBATH Jesus went into the synagogue at Capernaum and taught the congregation. His listeners were surprised because he taught as one with authority of others.One of the men present had an unclean spirit. He cried out saying:"Let us alone. What have we to do with thee, thou Jesus of Nazareth? Art thou come to destroy us? I know these who thou art, 'the Holy One of God.'"Jesus rebuked the devil in the man, saying: "Hold thy peace, and come out of him."The unclean spirit thereupon cried out with a loud voice. It tormented the man, causing him to writhe greatly; but it came out of him. All who were present were astonished and said among themselves:"What thing is this? What new doctrine is this? For with authority commandeth he even the unclean spirits, and they do obey him."And the fame of Jesus spread abroad, all about the region of Galilee.Later Jesus went to a solitary place to pray. Great numbers came seeking him. When his disciples found him, they said:"All men seek for thee."Jesus replied: "Let us go into the next towns, that I may preach there also, for therefore came I forth."And Jesus preached in the synagogues throughout Galilee and cast out devils.

Can you love a God who knows everything, who can do anything, and yet does nothing? Not many can when the struggles of life inevitably come. The fact is, "Good and bad things happen to all men." Modern Christianity has redefined God's attributes by traditions and which creates irrational resentment toward the God who loves us. Don't reject God because of wrong expectations. One day our loved ones will die. Remember, in this life you will have trouble, it's not a result of the lack of God's love or ability. Trials are for our perfection. Don't you feel better that God walks with us daily? Go to the Scriptures and seek out what is true about our God and his intentions toward us. ***Chapter 9: Jesus Heals the Nobleman's Son (Part 2) Jesus returned to Cana in Galilee, the place where he had made the water into wine at the marriage feast.  Hearing that Jesus had come back to Galilee from Judea, a nobleman, whose son was sick to the point of death in Capernaum, went to meet him.  He besought Jesus to heal his son. To the nobleman Jesus said: “Except ye see signs and wonders, ye will not believe.” The nobleman replied: “Sir, come down ere my child die.” Jesus responded: “Go thy way; thy son liveth.” The man believed the promise Jesus had made to him and started toward home.  While still on his way he was met, the following day, by his servants, who said: “Thy son liveth.” The nobleman inquired as to the hour his son began to amend and his servantsreplied: “Yesterday at the seventh hour [1 o’clock] the fever left him. So, the father knew that it was at the same hour Jesus had told him his sonlived.  Accordingly, he believed as did all others in his house.

Specialization in the post industrial age leads to excessive trust on professionals. We feel insecure in our abilities, so we look to others to form our opinions and support our decisions. Christians, however, have a more sure word of prophesy (more sure than tradition or observation). Interested? You should be. The Bible is a gift to modern man, subject to a sovereign God, which should be read in context, not in extracted sound bites that tickle our ears. Let the recorded witnesses encourage you; let the Son of God teach you. A giant step toward equity. ***Chapter 9: Jesus Heals the Nobleman's Son (Part 1) Jesus returned to Cana in Galilee, the place where he had made the water into wine at the marriage feast.  Hearing that Jesus had come back to Galilee from Judea, a nobleman, whose son was sick to the point of death in Capernaum, went to meet him.  He besought Jesus to heal his son. To the nobleman Jesus said: “Except ye see signs and wonders, ye will not believe.” The nobleman replied: “Sir, come down ere my child die.” Jesus responded: “Go thy way; thy son liveth.” The man believed the promise Jesus had made to him and started toward home.  While still on his way he was met, the following day, by his servants, who said: “Thy son liveth.” The nobleman inquired as to the hour his son began to amend and his servantsreplied: “Yesterday at the seventh hour [1 o’clock] the fever left him. So, the father knew that it was at the same hour Jesus had told him his sonlived.  Accordingly, he believed as did all others in his house. ***

Are you familiar with the celebrations Jesus kept? You can be. Read Leviticus 23 read the descriptions of the Feasts of the LORD. You’ll discover there is no need to re-write pagan celebrations to rejoice with our families and our God. However, since Moses did not use the Gregorian calendar, the dates need to be deciphered to determine proper times and dates.  Interested? Think Red Ink Ministries will send you a free DVD (no ads, no strings, no begging) for your study.  E-mail [email protected] to request “The Creators’ Calendar”.  Let’s celebrate the Yah-way! Holidays we can keep – in Spirit and Truth.  ***Chapter 8 (Part 4)RETURNING to Galilee after a trip to Judea, Jesus came, about noon, to the outskirts of the city of  Sychar in Samaria near Jacob’s well, situated on the parcel of ground that Jacob had given to his son Joseph. A woman of Samaria came to draw water. To her Jesus said: “Give me to drink.” The woman responded: “How is it that thou, being a Jew, askest drink of me, which am a woman of Samaria?The Jews have no dealings with the Samaritans. Jesus replied: “If thou knewest the gift of God, and who it is that saith to thee, ‘Give me to drink,’ thou wouldest have asked of him, and he would have given thee living water.” Not understanding, the woman replied: “Sir, thou hast nothing to draw with, and the well is deep: from whence then hast thou that living water? Art thou greater than our father Jacob, which gave us the well, and drank thereof himself, and his children, and his cattle?” Jesus answered: “Whosoever drinketh of this water shall thirst again: But whosoever drinketh of the water that I shall give him shall never thirst; but the water that I shall give him shall be in him a well of water springing up into everlasting life.”  The woman said:  “Sir, give me this water, that I thirst not, neither come hither to draw.” Jesus saith unto her, “Go, call thy husband, and come hither.” The woman answered saying: “I have no husband.”  Jesus said: “Thou hast well said, I have no husband: For thou hast had five husbands; and he whom thou now hast is not thy husband: in that saidst thou truly.” The astonished woman replied: “I perceive that thou art a prophet.  Our fathers worshipped in this mountain; and ye say, that in Jerusalem is the place where men ought to worship.” Jesus replied: “Woman, believe me, the hour cometh, when ye shall neither in this mountain, nor yet at Jerusalem, worship the Father.  Ye worship ye know not what: we know what we worship: for salvation is of the Jews. But the hour cometh, and now is, when the true worshippers shall worship the Father in spirit and in truth: for the Father seeketh such to worship him. God is a Spirit: and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth.”  Marveling at his words, the woman said: “I know that Messias cometh, which is called Christ: when he is come, he will tell us all things.” Jesus replied: “I that speak unto thee am he.” The disciples returned and marvelled that Jesus was talking with the woman: yet no man questioned him as to his reason. The woman then left her waterpot, and went her way into the city, and said to the men: “Come, see a man, which told me all things that ever I did: is not this the Christ?” The men left the city and approached Jesus as his disciples were asking him to eat.Jesus answered: “I have meat to eat that ye know not of.” The disciples asked one another: “Hath any man brought him ought to eat?”But Jesus answered: “My meat is to do the will of him that sent me, and to finish his work. Say not ye,...

The Scriptures are important to me.  However, my primary focus is on the red-ink (words spoken by Jesus). When the Son of God comes to earth – we should know what he said.  We should ask what did Jesus say, what did Jesus do, and what did Jesus say to do.When a rabbi, a prophet, comes to town, the question on their minds, “Where are we supposed to keep the Feasts?”  Many Christians have unknowingly replaced the Feasts of the LORD with pagan rituals, beginning with the Sabbath.  Jesus came to change things; to get religion out of the way of our relationship to God and man. It is no longer a matter of geography or denomination. Jesus said, "...Worship in Spirit and Truth!" ***Chapter 8 (Part 3)RETURNING to Galilee after a trip to Judea, Jesus came, about noon, to the outskirts of the city of  Sychar in Samaria near Jacob’s well, situated on the parcel of ground that Jacob had given to his son Joseph. A woman of Samaria came to draw water. To her Jesus said: “Give me to drink.” The woman responded: “How is it that thou, being a Jew, askest drink of me, which am a woman of Samaria?The Jews have no dealings with the Samaritans. Jesus replied: “If thou knewest the gift of God, and who it is that saith to thee, ‘Give me to drink,’ thou wouldest have asked of him, and he would have given thee living water.” Not understanding, the woman replied: “Sir, thou hast nothing to draw with, and the well is deep: from whence then hast thou that living water? Art thou greater than our father Jacob, which gave us the well, and drank thereof himself, and his children, and his cattle?” Jesus answered: “Whosoever drinketh of this water shall thirst again: But whosoever drinketh of the water that I shall give him shall never thirst; but the water that I shall give him shall be in him a well of water springing up into everlasting life.”  The woman said:  “Sir, give me this water, that I thirst not, neither come hither to draw.” Jesus saith unto her, “Go, call thy husband, and come hither.” The woman answered saying: “I have no husband.”  Jesus said: “Thou hast well said, I have no husband: For thou hast had five husbands; and he whom thou now hast is not thy husband: in that saidst thou truly.” The astonished woman replied: “I perceive that thou art a prophet.  Our fathers worshipped in this mountain; and ye say, that in Jerusalem is the place where men ought to worship.” Jesus replied: “Woman, believe me, the hour cometh, when ye shall neither in this mountain, nor yet at Jerusalem, worship the Father.  Ye worship ye know not what: we know what we worship: for salvation is of the Jews. But the hour cometh, and now is, when the true worshippers shall worship the Father in spirit and in truth: for the Father seeketh such to worship him. God is a Spirit: and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth.”  Marveling at his words, the woman said: “I know that Messias cometh, which is called Christ: when he is come, he will tell us all things.” Jesus replied: “I that speak unto thee am he.” The disciples returned and marvelled that Jesus was talking with the woman: yet no man questioned him as to his reason. The woman then left her waterpot, and went her way into the city, and said to the men: “Come, see a man, which told me all things that ever I did: is not this the Christ?” The men left the city and approached Jesus as his disciples were asking him to eat.Jesus answered: “I have meat to eat that ye know not of.” The disciples asked one another: “Hath any man brought him ought to eat?”But Jesus answered: “My meat is to do the will of him that sent me, and to finish his work. Say not ye,...

There was a long history of division between the Samaritans and the Jews.  To the surprise of the disciples (and the religious leaders), Jesus loved people and ministered to people who were not Jews. Conversion to Judaism was not a requirement.  Continuing the conversation with the Samaritan woman, Jesus asked her to go get her husband.  This is awkward.  Then, Jesus reveals that He knows this woman has a reputation problem. Still (and, as we shall soon see to the chagrin of the religious leaders) Jesus continues to discuss the theological question she asked.   Let’s talk about sex. Can you be accidentally married-in-the-eyes of God by having sex?  What is fornication? Adultery?  Experience can make us jaded in relationships. In another place, Jesus says, the law allowed divorce because the people had hard-hearts.  In this story, Jesus mentions only the misrepresentation of virginity (i.e. fornication) as the only cause for divorce. Adultery? Actually, adultery should be forgiven. We’ll resume here next time.***Chapter 8 (Part 2)RETURNING to Galilee after a trip to Judea, Jesus came, about noon, to the outskirts of the city of  Sychar in Samaria near Jacob’s well, situated on the parcel of ground that Jacob had given to his son Joseph. A woman of Samaria came to draw water. To her Jesus said: “Give me to drink.” The woman responded: “How is it that thou, being a Jew, askest drink of me, which am a woman of Samaria?The Jews have no dealings with the Samaritans. Jesus replied: “If thou knewest the gift of God, and who it is that saith to thee, ‘Give me to drink,’ thou wouldest have asked of him, and he would have given thee living water.” Not understanding, the woman replied: “Sir, thou hast nothing to draw with, and the well is deep: from whence then hast thou that living water? Art thou greater than our father Jacob, which gave us the well, and drank thereof himself, and his children, and his cattle?” Jesus answered: “Whosoever drinketh of this water shall thirst again: But whosoever drinketh of the water that I shall give him shall never thirst; but the water that I shall give him shall be in him a well of water springing up into everlasting life.”  The woman said:  “Sir, give me this water, that I thirst not, neither come hither to draw.” Jesus saith unto her, “Go, call thy husband, and come hither.” The woman answered saying: “I have no husband.”  Jesus said: “Thou hast well said, I have no husband: For thou hast had five husbands; and he whom thou now hast is not thy husband: in that saidst thou truly.” The astonished woman replied: “I perceive that thou art a prophet.  Our fathers worshipped in this mountain; and ye say, that in Jerusalem is the place where men ought to worship.” Jesus replied: “Woman, believe me, the hour cometh, when ye shall neither in this mountain, nor yet at Jerusalem, worship the Father.  Ye worship ye know not what: we know what we worship: for salvation is of the Jews. But the hour cometh, and now is, when the true worshippers shall worship the Father in spirit and in truth: for the Father seeketh such to worship him. God is a Spirit: and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth.”  Marveling at his words, the woman said: “I know that Messias cometh, which is called Christ: when he is come, he will tell us all things.” Jesus replied: “I that speak unto thee am he.” The disciples returned and marvelled that Jesus was talking with the woman: yet no man questioned him as to his reason. The woman then left her waterpot, and went her way into the city, and said to the men: “Come, see a man, which told me all things that ever I did: is not this the...

Subscribe, review, and share this podcast to keep diversity on the web. Jesus went to great lengths to remove barriers. The people of the Scripture had the same concerns we hear today. Who has the authority? Rather than build a relationship with mankind which requires "an expert" to establish protocol, to make hierarchies, to require a priest; Jesus came to implement one-on-one relationships. Jesus operated outside the barriers of prejudice, of tradition and of location. "Worship in Spirit and Truth." "Pray in your closet." "Be watered and fed on the inside." "How can these things be?" Jesus used physical principles to convey spiritual truths. He revealed mysteries (not based on race or gender) to those who were willing to look past the obvious and to make changes in their lives. "One is your teacher, even Christ." There are prerequisites. Keep the commandments. Never violate your conscience. And take time every day to hear the voice of God. The kingdom of God is within us! ***Chapter 8 (Part 1)RETURNING to Galilee after a trip to Judea, Jesus came, about noon, to the outskirts of the city of  Sychar in Samaria near Jacob’s well, situated on the parcel of ground that Jacob had given to his son Joseph. A woman of Samaria came to draw water. To her Jesus said: “Give me to drink.” The woman responded: “How is it that thou, being a Jew, askest drink of me, which am a woman of Samaria?The Jews have no dealings with the Samaritans. Jesus replied: “If thou knewest the gift of God, and who it is that saith to thee, ‘Give me to drink,’ thou wouldest have asked of him, and he would have given thee living water.” Not understanding, the woman replied: “Sir, thou hast nothing to draw with, and the well is deep: from whence then hast thou that living water? Art thou greater than our father Jacob, which gave us the well, and drank thereof himself, and his children, and his cattle?” Jesus answered: “Whosoever drinketh of this water shall thirst again: But whosoever drinketh of the water that I shall give him shall never thirst; but the water that I shall give him shall be in him a well of water springing up into everlasting life.”  The woman said:  “Sir, give me this water, that I thirst not, neither come hither to draw.” Jesus saith unto her, “Go, call thy husband, and come hither.” The woman answered saying: “I have no husband.”  Jesus said: “Thou hast well said, I have no husband: For thou hast had five husbands; and he whom thou now hast is not thy husband: in that saidst thou truly.” The astonished woman replied: “I perceive that thou art a prophet.  Our fathers worshipped in this mountain; and ye say, that in Jerusalem is the place where men ought to worship.” Jesus replied: “Woman, believe me, the hour cometh, when ye shall neither in this mountain, nor yet at Jerusalem, worship the Father.  Ye worship ye know not what: we know what we worship: for salvation is of the Jews. But the hour cometh, and now is, when the true worshippers shall worship the Father in spirit and in truth: for the Father seeketh such to worship him. God is a Spirit: and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth.”  Marveling at his words, the woman said: “I know that Messias cometh, which is called Christ: when he is come, he will tell us all things.” Jesus replied: “I that speak unto thee am he.” The disciples returned and marvelled that Jesus was talking with the woman: yet no man questioned him as to his reason. The woman then left her waterpot, and went her way into the city, and said to the men: “Come, see a man, which told me all things that ever I did: is not this the Christ?” The men left the city and approached Jesus as his disciples were asking him to...

If what you believe is not true, do you want to know it? Grandpa (or your widow) is not in heaven watching your every move. We [Christendom] made it up. Jesus said, "...no man has ascended up to heaven, but he that came down from heaven even the son of man..." The law cannot justify us. Belief in Christ saves us... not a feeling, or a strong feeling; it's an acceptance of the authority of Jesus - so much so that we do what he said. Jesus said if we keep the commandments, we will hear the Word of God from the inside and be changed through obedience (regeneration). Everyone will give an account of their life actions one day. If you do the truth, when your day before the judge, you'll say, "Bring it on." Judgment does not equal condemnation. Judge yourself daily. Make corrections. Do the truth. "Think red ink!" ***Chapter 7: (Part 4) JESUS' WORDS TO NICODEMUSOne night a Pharisee named Nicodemus, a ruler of the Jews, came to Jesus and said: "Master, we know that thou art a teacher come from God; for no man can do these miracles that thou doest, except God be with him." Jesus answered: "Verily, verily, I say unto thee, 'Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God." Perplexed by the answer, Nicodemus asked: "How can a man be born when he is old? Can he enter the second time into his mother's womb, and be born? Jesus replied: "Verily, verily, I say unto thee, 'Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God'. That which is born of flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit. Marvel not that I said unto thee, 'Ye must be born again.' The wind bloweth where it listeth, and thou hearest the sound thereof, but canst not tell whence it cometh, and whither it goeth. So is everyone that is born of the Spirit.'" Nicodemus asked: "How can these things be?" Jesus answered: "Art thou a master of Israel, and knowest not these things? Verily, verily, I say unto thee, 'We speak that we do know, and testify that we have seen; and ye receive not our witness.' If I have told you earthly things, and ye believe not, how shall ye believe if I tell you of heavenly things? And no man hath ascended up to Heaven, but he that came down from Heaven, even the Son of man which is in Heaven. "And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, even so must the Son of Man be lifted up; that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have eternal life. "For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved. "He that believeth on him is not condemned; but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God. And this is the condemnation, that light is come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil. For everyone that doeth evil hateth the light, neither cometh to the light, lest his deeds should be reproved. But he that doeth truth cometh to the light, that his deeds may be made manifest, that they are wrought in God."

Jesus said, “I testify of that which I know…” “I speak of the secrets of the kingdom of God.” “I do miracles.” “I always obey my Father.” “Why do you not believe me?”  The church leadership was threatened by the authority of Jesus.  Jesus did not study in the yeshivas and did not minister the way the Pharisees anticipated Messiah would minister, i.e. within their established traditions and hierarchy.  Yet, his relationship to YHVH God was undeniable.  In like manner, when we are born of the Spirit people will not understand what we are doing, where we are going, or how we are guided.  Compromise, not syncretism via Constantine, has removed persecution from Christians. ***Chapter 7: (Part 3) JESUS' WORDS TO NICODEMUSOne night a Pharisee named Nicodemus, a ruler of the Jews, came to Jesus and said: "Master, we know that thou art a teacher come from God; for no man can do these miracles that thou doest, except God be with him." Jesus answered: "Verily, verily, I say unto thee, 'Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God." Perplexed by the answer, Nicodemus asked: "How can a man be born when he is old? Can he enter the second time into his mother's womb, and be born? Jesus replied: "Verily, verily, I say unto thee, 'Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God'. That which is born of flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit. Marvel not that I said unto thee, 'Ye must be born again.' The wind bloweth where it listeth, and thou hearest the sound thereof, but canst not tell whence it cometh, and whither it goeth. So is everyone that is born of the Spirit.'" Nicodemus asked: "How can these things be?" Jesus answered: "Art thou a master of Israel, and knowest not these things? Verily, verily, I say unto thee, 'We speak that we do know, and testify that we have seen; and ye receive not our witness.' If I have told you earthly things, and ye believe not, how shall ye believe if I tell you of heavenly things? And no man hath ascended up to Heaven, but he that came down from Heaven, even the Son of man which is in Heaven. "And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, even so must the Son of Man be lifted up; that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have eternal life. "For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved. "He that believeth on him is not condemned; but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God. And this is the condemnation, that light is come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil. For everyone that doeth evil hateth the light, neither cometh to the light, lest his deeds should be reproved. But he that doeth truth cometh to the light, that his deeds may be made manifest, that they are wrought in God."

Today’s slogan ideology is too narrow to cover the revelation Jesus came to convey. We think we know, so we are not listening! Have you read the Scriptures where Jesus tries to describe the Kingdom of Heaven using our language? It was difficult. It is recorded once that Jesus asked, and then answered, “Why do you not understand my sayings? Even because you cannot hear my words.”  We need more than ears to get this message! Good news! If we keep the Commandments, Jesus and the Spirit of God, will help us - from the inside.    ***Chapter 7: (Part 2) JESUS' WORDS TO NICODEMUSOne night a Pharisee named Nicodemus, a ruler of the Jews, came to Jesus and said: "Master, we know that thou art a teacher come from God; for no man can do these miracles that thou doest, except God be with him." Jesus answered: "Verily, verily, I say unto thee, 'Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God." Perplexed by the answer, Nicodemus asked: "How can a man be born when he is old? Can he enter the second time into his mother's womb, and be born? Jesus replied: "Verily, verily, I say unto thee, 'Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God'. That which is born of flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit. Marvel not that I said unto thee, 'Ye must be born again.' The wind bloweth where it listeth, and thou hearest the sound thereof, but canst not tell whence it cometh, and whither it goeth. So is everyone that is born of the Spirit.'" Nicodemus asked: "How can these things be?" Jesus answered: "Art thou a master of Israel, and knowest not these things? Verily, verily, I say unto thee, 'We speak that we do know, and testify that we have seen; and ye receive not our witness.' If I have told you earthly things, and ye believe not, how shall ye believe if I tell you of heavenly things? And no man hath ascended up to Heaven, but he that came down from Heaven, even the Son of man which is in Heaven. "And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, even so must the Son of Man be lifted up; that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have eternal life. "For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved. "He that believeth on him is not condemned; but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God. And this is the condemnation, that light is come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil. For everyone that doeth evil hateth the light, neither cometh to the light, lest his deeds should be reproved. But he that doeth truth cometh to the light, that his deeds may be made manifest, that they are wrought in God."

This podcast refers to the, “The Words of Jesus” book, as recorded in the Authorized, King James Version of the Holy Bible. Arranged and chronicled by Gilbert James Brett; Edited by Melbourne I. Feltman, PhD; Comprising the words of Jesus with authoritative adaptations of the Bible text of which they are a part; Consolidated Book Publishers, 153 North Michigan Avenue, Chicago; Copyright 1943 – the John A. Dickson Publishing Co. For your reference and convenience, each podcast episode will include the chapter text from the book which is referenced in the specific episode.  It is useful to recall that in the days Jesus ministered in the flesh, the Scriptures were not readily available to the general public; indeed literacy was not a common attribute.  Scriptures were copied with diligence by the Essenes.  The Scriptures were read in the Synagogues.The abundance of Bibles in our day has diminished the value placed on the Scriptures.  The record of the gospel and its wide availability came at a great cost. Check out the end of the lives of those involved in this endeavor.  Most were martyred for their trouble.  We should consider why they were willing to pay such a price to make the Scriptures available for us today.  They are a gift from God.  *** Chapter 7: JESUS' WORDS TO NICODEMUSOne night a Pharisee named Nicodemus, a ruler of the Jews, came to Jesus and said: "Master, we know that thou art a teacher come from God; for no man can do these miracles that thou doest, except God be with him." Jesus answered: "Verily, verily, I say unto thee, 'Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God." Perplexed by the answer, Nicodemus asked: "How can a man be born when he is old? Can he enter the second time into his mother's womb, and be born? Jesus replied: "Verily, verily, I say unto thee, 'Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God'. That which is born of flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit. Marvel not that I said unto thee, 'Ye must be born again.' The wind bloweth where it listeth, and thou hearest the sound thereof, but canst not tell whence it cometh, and whither it goeth. So is everyone that is born of the Spirit.'" Nicodemus asked: "How can these things be?" Jesus answered: "Art thou a master of Israel, and knowest not these things? Verily, verily, I say unto thee, 'We speak that we do know, and testify that we have seen; and ye receive not our witness.' If I have told you earthly things, and ye believe not, how shall ye believe if I tell you of heavenly things? And no man hath ascended up to Heaven, but he that came down from Heaven, even the Son of man which is in Heaven. "And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, even so must the Son of Man be lifted up; that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have eternal life. "For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved. "He that believeth on him is not condemned; but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God. And this is the condemnation, that light is come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil. For everyone that doeth evil hateth the light, neither cometh to the light, lest his deeds should be reproved. But he that doeth truth cometh to the light, that his deeds may be made manifest, that they are wrought in God."