533 – Spiritual Matters

534 – Believing Versus Worry, Doubt, and Fear

God 534 – Believing Versus Worry, Doubt, and Fear You can follow along with the Scriptures and my notes as I read them. I've been thinking about believing versus worrying, doubting, and fearing. We know how important it is for us to believe and trust God, but one thing that tries to destroy that is fear. We're going to learn how to defeat fear. Mark 11:22 "And Jesus answering saith unto them, Have faith in God." A simple translation is to believe and trust God. Mark 11:23 & 24 "For verily I say unto you, That whosoever shall say unto this mountain, Be thou removed, and be thou cast into the sea; and shall not doubt in his heart, but shall believe that those things which he saith shall come to pass; he shall have whatsoever he saith. 24 Therefore I say unto you, What things soever ye desire, when ye pray, believe that ye receive them, and ye shall have them." We trust God in our hearts. The opposite of that is to have worry, doubt, and fear. We can worry, doubt in fear, and believe it in our hearts. The innermost part of our mind. Romans 10:8 – 10 "But what saith it? The word is nigh thee, even in thy mouth, and in thy heart: that is, the word of faith, which we preach; 9 That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. 10 For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation." Both believing and trusting God are in our hearts, as well as worrying, doubting, and fearing. We need to understand what God says about fear and get rid of it. Get it out of our minds, and trust God. Believing is a law, and the law is something that happens every time, like the law of gravity. It works every time. On the negative side, fear is believing, but in reverse. It gets you ill results. Fear is the Believer's only enemy. Fear is sand in the machinery of life. Fear stops you from being the person you would really like to be, and it all happens in your mind. Proverbs 29:25 "The fear of man bringeth a snare: but whoso putteth his trust in the LORD shall be safe." Fear is a snare, a trap. Trusting in God is believing in God. Isaiah 8:12 "Say ye not, A confederacy, to all them to whom this people shall say, A confederacy; neither fear ye their fear, nor be afraid." Watch out that you do not join yourself to anyone else's fear. You want to get rid of fear, and with God and His words, you can. Jeremiah 49:24 "Damascus is waxed feeble, and turneth herself to flee, and fear hath seized on her: anguish and sorrows have taken her, as a woman in travail." Someone who is waxed feeble is because of fear. Fear stops you from moving ahead. Job 3:25 "For the thing which I greatly feared is come upon me, and that which I was afraid of is come unto me." Fear is believing in reverse. What Job was afraid of became part of his life. We don't want to do that. That's why I'm teaching you how to defeat fear. Now, let's get better at dealing with fear. Let's get rid of fear from our lives. Here's how. Psalm 34:4 "I sought the LORD, and he heard me, and delivered me from all my fears." Seek God, learn about God, and believe and trust God, and He will deliver you from all your fears. 2 Timothy 1:7 "For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind." Worry, doubt, and fears can be defeated. Using three positive things, by saying three positive things, to beat fear, or any negative thing that comes across your mind. Like Power, Love, and a sound mind. Looking at the records about David and Goliath, you can learn how to defeat fear. Follow along as I read the records and explain some of the details. 1 Samuel 17:10 & 11 "And the Philistine said, I defy the armies of Israel this day; give me a man, that we may fight together. 11 When Saul and all Israel heard those words of the Philistine, they were dismayed, and greatly afraid." 1 Samuel 17:23 – 37 "And as he talked with them, behold, there came up the champion, the Philistine of Gath, Goliath by name, out of the armies of the Philistines, and spake according to the same words: and David heard them. 24 And all the men of Israel, when they saw the man, fled from him, and were sore afraid. 25 And the men of Israel said, Have ye seen this man that is come up? surely to defy Israel is he come up: and it shall be, that the man who killeth him, the king will enrich him with great riches, and will give him his daughter, and make his father's house free in Israel. 26 And David spake to the men that stood by him, saying, What shall be done to the man that killeth this Philistine, and taketh away the reproach from Israel? for who is this uncircumcised Philistine, that he should defy the armies of the living God? 27 And the people answered him after this manner, saying, So shall it be done to the man that killeth him. 28 And Eliab his eldest brother heard when he spake unto the men; and Eliab's anger was kindled against David, and he said, Why camest thou down hither? and with whom hast thou left those few sheep in the wilderness? I know thy pride, and the naughtiness of thine heart; for thou art come down that thou mightest see the battle. 29 And David said, What have I now done? Is there not a cause? 30 And he turned from him toward another, and spake after the same manner: and the people answered him again after the former manner. 31 And when the words were heard which David spake, they rehearsed them before Saul: and he sent for him. 32 And David said to Saul, Let no man's heart fail because of him; thy servant will go and fight with this Philistine. 33 And Saul said to David, Thou art not able to go against this Philistine to fight with him: for thou art but a youth, and he a man of war from his youth. 34 And David said unto Saul, Thy servant kept his father's sheep, and there came a lion, and a bear, and took a lamb out of the flock: 35 And I went out after him, and smote him, and delivered it out of his mouth: and when he arose against me, I caught him by his beard, and smote him, and slew him. 36 Thy servant slew both the lion and the bear: and this uncircumcised Philistine shall be as one of them, seeing he hath defied the armies of the living God. 37 David said moreover, The LORD that delivered me out of the paw of the lion, and out of the paw of the bear, he will deliver me out of the hand of this Philistine. And Saul said unto David, Go, and the LORD be with thee." Ephesians 6:12 "For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places." Listen as I read the end of Romans chapter 8 to see who you are and what you can do with the power of God in your life. Romans 8:28 – 39 "And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose. 29 For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brethren. 30 Moreover whom he did predestinate, them he also called: and whom he called, them he also justified: and whom he justified, them he also glorified. 31 What shall we then say to these things? If God be for us, who can be against us? 32 He that spared not his own Son, but delivered him up for us all, how shall he not with him also freely give us all things? 33 Who shall lay any thing to the charge of God's elect? It is God that justifieth. 34 Who is he that condemneth? It is Christ that died, yea rather, that is risen again, who is even at the right hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us. 35 Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword? 36 As it is written, For thy sake we are killed all the day long; we are accounted as sheep for the slaughter. 37 Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us. 38 For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, 39 Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord." May God Bless you Abundantly! Steve If you would like to study the Bible further, consider reviewing the Online Classes and Teachings page and the podcast page of the website https://stevejaynes.com. They are all offered free of charge to assist in your spiritual growth and confidence in God. Workbooks The Workbooks series on "How to Read the Bible for Understanding and Power" is now available. The website will provide information about the Workbooks and how to purchase them. Credits Intro and Outro Music: Larry LoVerme's version of "Be Thou My Vision." Information You can visit our website to stay informed about all the activities we're undertaking here with our podcast. Here's the link to my website: https://stevejaynes.com/ Zoom-dial-in Podcast listeners, you are invited to join us on Zoom this Sunday at 10:30 AM EST. To participate, click on the website (https://stevejaynes.com/zoom-dial-in) and join the meeting. We use this link for all our fellowships. We believe the Bible is the revealed Word and will of God. The Bible means what it says and says what it means. We allow the Word of God to speak for itself by applying key principles to interpret the Bible. The podcast is for only those who favor letting the Word of God speak for itself. If you'd like to support the podcast, please visit stevejaynes.com. On the top of every page, there's a donate button. Don't forget to rate the show and leave a positive review. An excellent rating could make the show more accessible to a broader audience. Contact Information Contact information can be found at the bottom of the website's homepage. To ask biblical questions about what I shared from any of my podcasts, feel free to send your questions or something you'd like to share to my X account. (1) Steve Jaynes (@SteveJaynes) / X [https://x.com/SteveJaynes]

533 – Spiritual Matters

God 533 – Spiritual Matters You can follow along with the Scriptures and my notes as I read them. Looking at the last words that Jesus Christ spoke before he was taken up. Mark 16:15 – 20 "And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature. 16 He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned. 17 And these signs shall follow them that believe; In my name shall they cast out devils; they shall speak with new tongues; 18 They shall take up serpents; and if they drink any deadly thing, it shall not hurt them; they shall lay hands on the sick, and they shall recover. 19 So then after the Lord had spoken unto them, he was received up into heaven, and sat on the right hand of God. 20 And they went forth, and preached every where, the Lord working with them, and confirming the word with signs following. Amen." Acts 1:4 – 8 "And, being assembled together with them, commanded them that they should not depart from Jerusalem, but wait for the promise of the Father, which, saith he, ye have heard of me. 5 For John truly baptized with water; but ye shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost not many days hence. 6 When they therefore were come together, they asked of him, saying, Lord, wilt thou at this time restore again the kingdom to Israel? 7 And he said unto them, It is not for you to know the times or the seasons, which the Father hath put in his own power. 8 But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth." Then Paul says more about spiritual matters, following up on what Jesus Christ said. 1 Corinthians 12:1, 4 – 6 & 7 "Now concerning spiritual gifts, brethren, I would not have you ignorant. 4 Now there are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit. 5 And there are differences of administrations, but the same Lord. 6 And there are diversities of operations, but it is the same God which worketh all in all." Here's a partial list of ways of serving. One, the ways in which you can serve, and the other, the manifestation, which is available, for the more abundant life. 1 Corinthians 12:28 And God hath set some in the church, first apostles, secondarily prophets, thirdly teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of healings, helps, governments, diversities of tongues. 29 Are all apostles? are all prophets? are all teachers? are all workers of miracles? 30 Have all the gifts of healing? do all speak with tongues? do all interpret? 31 But covet earnestly the best gifts: and yet shew I unto you a more excellent way. 7 But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to every man to profit withal." Here is the list of profits. 1 Corinthians 12:8 – 11 "For to one is given by the Spirit the word of wisdom; to another the word of knowledge by the same Spirit; 9 To another faith by the same Spirit; to another the gifts of healing by the same Spirit; 10 To another the working of miracles; to another prophecy; to another discerning of spirits; to another divers kinds of tongues; to another the interpretation of tongues: 11 But all these worketh that one and the selfsame Spirit, dividing to every man severally as he will." Verses in 1 Corinthians 12:12 through to verse 27 are about the One body of Christ. "For as the body is one, and hath many members, and all the members of that one body, being many, are one body: so also is Christ.", 27 "Now ye are the body of Christ, and members in particular." Verses 28 through 21 show how our spirit works to serve through Manifestation and gift ministries, as well as other ways of serving. 1 Corinthians 14:32 "And the spirits of the prophets are subject to the prophets." In chapter 14, Paul explains the three manifestations dealing with the Believers as they gather together. God does not possess people. By the freedom of will, Believers gather together and decide to have manifestations to edify the other believers who are together. This is a decision of the Believers. The other manifestations are God's decision. There is no direction or Universal instruction needed. You just learn to hear from God. Speaking in tongues is entirely under the believer's control. From when to start and when to stop. In interpretation, the believer's mind is involved. God teaches your spirit what is in you, the words you need to speak. And you say them both in speaking in tongues and the interpretation. This takes the believer, controlling their mind, to repeat what God has said, revealing it to you. The believer. 1 Corinthians 14:4 & 5 "He that speaketh in an unknown tongue edifieth himself; but he that prophesieth edifieth the church. 5 I would that ye all spake with tongues, but rather that ye prophesied: for greater is he that prophesieth than he that speaketh with tongues, except he interpret, that the church may receive edifying." This takes controlling your mind. 1 Corinthians 14:6 – 15 "Now, brethren, if I come unto you speaking with tongues, what shall I profit you, except I shall speak to you either by revelation, or by knowledge, or by prophesying, or by doctrine? 7 And even things without life giving sound, whether pipe or harp, except they give a distinction in the sounds, how shall it be known what is piped or harped? 8 For if the trumpet give an uncertain sound, who shall prepare himself to the battle? 9 So likewise ye, except ye utter by the tongue words easy to be understood, how shall it be known what is spoken? for ye shall speak into the air. 10 There are, it may be, so many kinds of voices in the world, and none of them is without signification. 11 Therefore if I know not the meaning of the voice, I shall be unto him that speaketh a barbarian, and he that speaketh shall be a barbarian unto me. 12 Even so ye, forasmuch as ye are zealous of spiritual gifts, seek that ye may excel to the edifying of the church. 13 Wherefore let him that speaketh in an unknown tongue pray that he may interpret. 14 For if I pray in an unknown tongue, my spirit prayeth, but my understanding is unfruitful. 15 What is it then? I will pray with the spirit, and I will pray with the understanding also: I will sing with the spirit, and I will sing with the understanding also." Romans 8:26 – 28 "Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered. 27 And he that searcheth the hearts knoweth what is the mind of the Spirit, because he maketh intercession for the saints according to the will of God. 28 And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to purpose." 1 Corinthians 14:16 – 22 "Else when thou shalt bless with the spirit, how shall he that occupieth the room of the unlearned say Amen at thy giving of thanks, seeing he understandeth not what thou sayest? 17 For thou verily givest thanks well, but the other is not edified. 18 I thank my God, I speak with tongues more than ye all: 19 Yet in the church I had rather speak five words with my understanding, that by my voice I might teach others also, than ten thousand words in an unknown tongue. 20 Brethren, be not children in understanding: howbeit in malice be ye children, but in understanding be men. 21 In the law it is written, With men of other tongues and other lips will I speak unto this people; and yet for all that will they not hear me, saith the Lord. 22 Wherefore tongues are for a sign, not to them that believe, but to them that believe not: but prophesying serveth not for them that believe not, but for them which believe." The rest of 1st Corinthians chapter 14 is all about what verse 40 says. 1 Corinthians 14:40 Let all things be done decently and in order. May God Bless you Abundantly Steve If you would like to study the Bible further, consider reviewing the Online Classes and Teachings page and the podcast page of the website https://stevejaynes.com. They are all offered free of charge to assist in your spiritual growth and confidence in God. Workbooks Workbooks series on "How to Read the Bible for Understanding and Power" is now available. The website will provide information about the Workbooks and how to purchase them. Credits Intro and Outro Music: Larry LoVerme's version of "Be Thou My Vision." Information You can visit our website to stay informed about all the activities we're undertaking here with our podcast. Here's the link to my website: https://stevejaynes.com/ Zoom-dial-in Podcast listeners, you are invited to join us on Zoom this Sunday at 10:30 AM EST. To participate, click on the website (https://stevejaynes.com/zoom-dial-in) and join the meeting. We use this link for all our fellowships. We believe the Bible is the revealed Word and will of God. The Bible means what it says and says what it means. We allow the Word of God to speak for itself by applying key principles to interpret the Bible. The podcast is for only those who favor letting the Word of God speak for itself. If you'd like to support the podcast, please visit stevejaynes.com. On the top of every page, there's a donate button. Don't forget to rate the show and leave a positive review. An excellent rating could make the show more accessible to a broader audience. Contact Information Contact information can be found at the bottom of the website's homepage. To ask biblical questions about what I shared from any of my podcasts, feel free to send your questions or something you'd like to share to my X account. (1) Steve Jaynes (@SteveJaynes) / X [https://x.com/SteveJaynes]

532 – I Would Not Have You Ignorant

God 532 – I Would Not Have You Ignorant You can follow along with the Scriptures and my notes as I read them. I've been reading a book by Tom Kelso. "I would not have you ignorant." At the Clergy and Elder meeting a couple of weeks ago, we were asked to do a teaching on, "I would not have you ignorant. I redid the teaching at our fellowship on Sunday. This is the podcast from that teaching. The book is worth reading and can be purchased on Amazon.com under his name and the book title. I recommend the book highly. 1 Thessalonians 4:13 – 18 "But I would not have you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning them which are asleep, that ye sorrow not, even as others which have no hope. 14 For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so them also which sleep in Jesus will God bring with him. 15 For this we say unto you by the word of the Lord, that we which are alive and remain unto the coming of the Lord shall not prevent them which are asleep. 16 For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first: 17 Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord. 18 Wherefore comfort one another with these words." Jesus was resurrected. So we will be too. The resurrection is the center point of all history. Acts 1:22 "Beginning from the baptism of John, unto that same day that he was taken up from us, must one be ordained to be a witness with us of his resurrection." Jesus Christ's Apostles were witnesses of the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Acts 2:29 – 33 "Men and brethren, let me freely speak unto you of the patriarch David, that he is both dead and buried, and his sepulchre is with us unto this day. 30 Therefore being a prophet, and knowing that God had sworn with an oath to him, that of the fruit of his loins, according to the flesh, he would raise up Christ to sit on his throne; 31 He seeing this before spake of the resurrection of Christ, that his soul was not left in hell, neither his flesh did see corruption. 32 This Jesus hath God raised up, whereof we all are witnesses. 33 Therefore being by the right hand of God exalted, and having received of the Father the promise of the Holy Ghost, he hath shed forth this, which ye now see and hear." Believers who manifest the holy spirit by speaking in tongues show the power of the holy spirit. And demonstrate the power of the holy spirit. Romans 1:4 "And declared to be the Son of God with power, according to the spirit of holiness, by the resurrection from the dead:" Romans 8:11 "But if the Spirit of him that raised up Jesus from the dead dwell in you, he that raised up Christ from the dead shall also quicken your mortal bodies by his Spirit that dwelleth in you." We will be made alive again, just like Jesus Christ was. Romans 10:8 – 11 "But what saith it? The word is nigh thee, even in thy mouth, and in thy heart: that is, the word of faith, which we preach; 9 That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. 10 For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation. 11 For the scripture saith, Whosoever believeth on him shall not be ashamed." Everything you need to know about getting born again and receiving eternal life is in these few verses. 1 Corinthians 15:12 - 58 "Now if Christ be preached that he rose from the dead, how say some among you that there is no resurrection of the dead? 13 But if there be no resurrection of the dead, then is Christ not risen: 14 And if Christ be not risen, then is our preaching vain, and your faith is also vain. 15 Yea, and we are found false witnesses of God; because we have testified of God that he raised up Christ: whom he raised not up, if so be that the dead rise not. 16 For if the dead rise not, then is not Christ raised: 17 And if Christ be not raised, your faith is vain; ye are yet in your sins. 18 Then they also which are fallen asleep in Christ are perished. 19 If in this life only we have hope in Christ, we are of all men most miserable. 20 But now is Christ risen from the dead, and become the firstfruits of them that slept. 21 For since by man came death, by man came also the resurrection of the dead. 22 For as in Adam all die, even so in Christ shall all be made alive. 23 But every man in his own order: Christ the firstfruits; afterward they that are Christ's at his coming. 24 Then cometh the end, when he shall have delivered up the kingdom to God, even the Father; when he shall have put down all rule and all authority and power. 25 For he must reign, till he hath put all enemies under his feet. 26 The last enemy that shall be destroyed is death. 27 For he hath put all things under his feet. But when he saith all things are put under him, it is manifest that he is excepted, which did put all things under him. 28 And when all things shall be subdued unto him, then shall the Son also himself be subject unto him that put all things under him, that God may be all in all. 29 Else what shall they do which are baptized for the dead, if the dead rise not at all? why are they then baptized for the dead? 30 And why stand we in jeopardy every hour? 31 I protest by your rejoicing which I have in Christ Jesus our Lord, I die daily. 32 If after the manner of men I have fought with beasts at Ephesus, what advantageth it me, if the dead rise not? let us eat and drink; for to morrow we die. 33 Be not deceived: evil communications corrupt good manners. 34 Awake to righteousness, and sin not; for some have not the knowledge of God: I speak this to your shame. 35 But some man will say, How are the dead raised up? and with what body do they come? 36 Thou fool, that which thou sowest is not quickened, except it die: 37 And that which thou sowest, thou sowest not that body that shall be, but bare grain, it may chance of wheat, or of some other grain: 38 But God giveth it a body as it hath pleased him, and to every seed his own body. 39 All flesh is not the same flesh: but there is one kind of flesh of men, another flesh of beasts, another of fishes, and another of birds. 40 There are also celestial bodies, and bodies terrestrial: but the glory of the celestial is one, and the glory of the terrestrial is another. 41 There is one glory of the sun, and another glory of the moon, and another glory of the stars: for one star differeth from another star in glory. 42 So also is the resurrection of the dead. It is sown in corruption; it is raised in incorruption: 43 It is sown in dishonour; it is raised in glory: it is sown in weakness; it is raised in power: 44 It is sown a natural body; it is raised a spiritual body. There is a natural body, and there is a spiritual body. 45 And so it is written, The first man Adam was made a living soul; the last Adam was made a quickening spirit. 46 Howbeit that was not first which is spiritual, but that which is natural; and afterward that which is spiritual. 47 The first man is of the earth, earthy: the second man is the Lord from heaven. 48 As is the earthy, such are they also that are earthy: and as is the heavenly, such are they also that are heavenly. 49 And as we have borne the image of the earthy, we shall also bear the image of the heavenly. 50 Now this I say, brethren, that flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God; neither doth corruption inherit incorruption. 51 Behold, I shew you a mystery; We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed, 52 In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump: for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed. 53 For this corruptible must put on incorruption, and this mortal must put on immortality. 54 So when this corruptible shall have put on incorruption, and this mortal shall have put on immortality, then shall be brought to pass the saying that is written, Death is swallowed up in victory. 55 O death, where is thy sting? O grave, where is thy victory? 56 The sting of death is sin; and the strength of sin is the law. 57 But thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. 58 Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye stedfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labour is not in vain in the Lord." 2 Peter 3:3 – 18 "Knowing this first, that there shall come in the last days scoffers, walking after their own lusts, 4 And saying, Where is the promise of his coming? for since the fathers fell asleep, all things continue as they were from the beginning of the creation. 5 For this they willingly are ignorant of, that by the word of God the heavens were of old, and the earth standing out of the water and in the water: 6 Whereby the world that then was, being overflowed with water, perished: 7 But the heavens and the earth, which are now, by the same word are kept in store, reserved unto fire against the day of judgment and perdition of ungodly men. 8 But, beloved, be not ignorant of this one thing, that one day is with the Lord as a thousand years, and a thousand years as one day. 9 The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance. 10 But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night; in the which the heavens shall pass away with a great noise, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat, the earth also and the works that are therein shall be burned up. 11 Seeing then that all these things shall be dissolved, what manner of persons ought ye to be in all holy conversation and godliness, 12 Looking for and hasting unto the coming of the day of God, wherein the heavens being on fire shall be dissolved, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat? 13 Nevertheless we, according to his promise, look for new heavens and a new earth, wherein dwelleth righteousness. 14 Wherefore, beloved, seeing that ye look for such things, be diligent that ye may be found of him in peace, without spot, and blameless. 15 And account that the longsuffering of our Lord is salvation; even as our beloved brother Paul also according to the wisdom given unto him hath written unto you; 16 As also in all his epistles, speaking in them of these things; in which are some things hard to be understood, which they that are unlearned and unstable wrest, as they do also the other scriptures, unto their own destruction. 17 Ye therefore, beloved, seeing ye know these things before, beware lest ye also, being led away with the error of the wicked, fall from your own stedfastness. 18 But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and for ever. Amen." We can learn all about the return of Jesus Christ and how we can have eternal life, and it's all revealed in the scriptures for us to know. May God Bless you Abundantly Steve If you would like to study the Bible further, consider reviewing the Online Classes and Teachings page and the podcast page of the website https://stevejaynes.com. They are all offered free of charge to assist in your spiritual growth and confidence in God. Workbooks Workbooks series on "How to Read the Bible for Understanding and Power" is now available. The website will provide information about the Workbooks and how to purchase them. Credits Intro and Outro Music: Larry LoVerme's version of "Be Thou My Vision." Information You can visit our website to stay informed about all the activities we're undertaking here with our podcast. Here's the link to my website: https://stevejaynes.com/ Zoom-dial-in Podcast listeners, you are invited to join us on Zoom this Sunday at 10:30 AM EST. To participate, click on the website (https://stevejaynes.com/zoom-dial-in) and join the meeting. We use this link for all our fellowships. We believe the Bible is the revealed Word and will of God. The Bible means what it says and says what it means. We allow the Word of God to speak for itself by applying key principles to interpret the Bible. The podcast is for only those who favor letting the Word of God speak for itself. If you'd like to support the podcast, please visit stevejaynes.com. On the top of every page, there's a donate button. Don't forget to rate the show and leave a positive review. An excellent rating could make the show more accessible to a broader audience. Contact Information Contact information can be found at the bottom of the website's homepage. To ask biblical questions about what I shared from any of my podcasts, feel free to send your questions or something you'd like to share to my X account. (1) Steve Jaynes (@SteveJaynes) / X [https://x.com/SteveJaynes]

531 – The Mercy of God

God 531 – The Mercy of God You can follow along with the Scriptures and my notes as I read them. Righteousness, grace, and mercy are the foundations of the renewed mind. This is the starting point for a renewed mind: knowing that you're righteous, knowing that it comes by grace, and remembering that God is merciful. Grace is divine favor. Something given to you that you didn't have to work for. It's a gift from God to you, a favor from God. Here you go, it is yours Mercy is withholding judgment of something that you have done. It is God who forgives you, and you have mercy. God's mercy is It's bigger than grace because it is not merely giving you something that you didn't earn. Mercy goes deeper into forgiving you for any misdeeds that you may have done, and receiving mercy from God. Just like you have never sinned. Romans 12:1 & 2 "I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. 2 And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God." By the mercies, meaning many mercies, and in remembering, what our service is. Making ourselves available to God, and by thinking "what is the good and acceptable and perfect will of God. The Story of Lot. Lot was so human. Like so many humans, you can see around today. Abram was living in Haran, Iran today, God said to him get thee out of thy country, and out of thy father's land. He took Lot with him, his nephew. And God blessed both Abraham and Lot with great wealth. But their herdsmen began arguing with each other. Both Lot and Abram agreed to separate. Abram said Lot, you choose first. Lot chose the plains area near the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah. Sodom and Gomorrah became a cesspool of inquity. All kinds of depravity, anti-God, and mischief were in the land. Genesis 18:17 – 33 "And the LORD said, Shall I hide from Abraham that thing which I do; 18 Seeing that Abraham shall surely become a great and mighty nation, and all the nations of the earth shall be blessed in him? 19 For I know him, that he will command his children and his household after him, and they shall keep the way of the LORD, to do justice and judgment; that the LORD may bring upon Abraham that which he hath spoken of him. 20 And the LORD said, Because the cry of Sodom and Gomorrah is great, and because their sin is very grievous; 21 I will go down now, and see whether they have done altogether according to the cry of it, which is come unto me; and if not, I will know. 22 And the men turned their faces from thence, and went toward Sodom: but Abraham stood yet before the LORD. 23 And Abraham drew near, and said, Wilt thou also destroy the righteous with the wicked? 24 Peradventure there be fifty righteous within the city: wilt thou also destroy and not spare the place for the fifty righteous that are therein? 25 That be far from thee to do after this manner, to slay the righteous with the wicked: and that the righteous should be as the wicked, that be far from thee: Shall not the Judge of all the earth do right? 26 And the LORD said, If I find in Sodom fifty righteous within the city, then I will spare all the place for their sakes. 27 And Abraham answered and said, Behold now, I have taken upon me to speak unto the Lord, which am but dust and ashes: 28 Peradventure there shall lack five of the fifty righteous: wilt thou destroy all the city for lack of five? And he said, If I find there forty and five, I will not destroy it. 29 And he spake unto him yet again, and said, Peradventure there shall be forty found there. And he said, I will not do it for forty's sake. 30 And he said unto him, Oh let not the Lord be angry, and I will speak: Peradventure there shall thirty be found there. And he said, I will not do it, if I find thirty there. 31 And he said, Behold now, I have taken upon me to speak unto the Lord: Peradventure there shall be twenty found there. And he said, I will not destroy it for twenty's sake. 32 And he said, Oh let not the Lord be angry, and I will speak yet but this once: Peradventure ten shall be found there. And he said, I will not destroy it for ten's sake. 33 And the LORD went his way, as soon as he had left communing with Abraham: and Abraham returned unto his place." You can see here and elsewhere in the Scriptures that it's all right to talk things over with God. It is a form of prayer. But I am sure God knew all along what he would do. Genesis 19:12 - 16 "And the men said unto Lot, Hast thou here any besides? son in law, and thy sons, and thy daughters, and whatsoever thou hast in the city, bring them out of this place: 13 For we will destroy this place, because the cry of them is waxen great before the face of the LORD; and the LORD hath sent us to destroy it. 14 And Lot went out, and spake unto his sons in law, which married his daughters, and said, Up, get you out of this place; for the LORD will destroy this city. But he seemed as one that mocked unto his sons in law. 15 And when the morning arose, then the angels hastened Lot, saying, Arise, take thy wife, and thy two daughters, which are here; lest thou be consumed in the iniquity of the city. 16 And while he lingered, the men laid hold upon his hand, and upon the hand of his wife, and upon the hand of his two daughters; the LORD being merciful unto him: and they brought him forth, and set him without the city." This is the first time the Merciful or a form of the word mercy is used in the Bible. Lot was not thinking right. He was dim-brained. He could not think things through logically. His brain, his mind, and his thinking had too many thoughts. About all the situations that he was in, and he could not clearly. Why? 2 Peter 2:4 – 8 "For if God spared not the angels that sinned, but cast them down to hell, and delivered them into chains of darkness, to be reserved unto judgment; 5 And spared not the old world, but saved Noah the eighth person, a preacher of righteousness, bringing in the flood upon the world of the ungodly; 6 And turning the cities of Sodom and Gomorrha into ashes condemned them with an overthrow, making them an ensample unto those that after should live ungodly; 7 And delivered just Lot, vexed with the filthy conversation of the wicked: 8 (For that righteous man dwelling among them, in seeing and hearing, vexed his righteous soul from day to day with their unlawful deeds;)" Lot could not think straight because his thoughts were vexed by the conversation of the people around him. He could not put his thoughts straight. If you find yourself like this, get help first from God and then from others. We gotta think clearly according to what we know from God's Word whenever we're in fixs. We pray, we ask God, we look to other knowledgeable believers for help. Genesis 19:17 – 21 "And it came to pass, when they had brought them forth abroad, that he said, Escape for thy life; look not behind thee, neither stay thou in all the plain; escape to the mountain, lest thou be consumed. 18 And Lot said unto them, Oh, not so, my Lord: 19 Behold now, thy servant hath found grace in thy sight, and thou hast magnified thy mercy, which thou hast shewed unto me in saving my life; and I cannot escape to the mountain, lest some evil take me, and I die: 20 Behold now, this city is near to flee unto, and it is a little one: Oh, let me escape thither, (is it not a little one?) and my soul shall live. 21 And he said unto him, See, I have accepted thee concerning this thing also, that I will not overthrow this city, for the which thou hast spoken." Fear has seized Lot. He's still not thinking right. Here's an example of squeezing God or getting God to change his mind. But if you do, you will not like it. If you squeeze God and get him to change The Revelation, you won't like it. But what God is doing is just saying, "Okay," but it will not be God's primary will. At best, it will be just second best. Why does God do that? Because of God's grace and mercy, God will let you. As we read on, we can see that Lot did not stay there long. Strange things happened to him and his daughters. Genesis 19:27 – 38 " And Abraham gat up early in the morning to the place where he stood before the LORD: 28 And he looked toward Sodom and Gomorrah, and toward all the land of the plain, and beheld, and, lo, the smoke of the country went up as the smoke of a furnace. 29 And it came to pass, when God destroyed the cities of the plain, that God remembered Abraham, and sent Lot out of the midst of the overthrow, when he overthrew the cities in the which Lot dwelt. 30 And Lot went up out of Zoar, and dwelt in the mountain, and his two daughters with him; for he feared to dwell in Zoar: and he dwelt in a cave, he and his two daughters. 31 And the firstborn said unto the younger, Our father is old, and there is not a man in the earth to come in unto us after the manner of all the earth: 32 Come, let us make our father drink wine, and we will lie with him, that we may preserve seed of our father. 33 And they made their father drink wine that night: and the firstborn went in, and lay with her father; and he perceived not when she lay down, nor when she arose. 34 And it came to pass on the morrow, that the firstborn said unto the younger, Behold, I lay yesternight with my father: let us make him drink wine this night also; and go thou in, and lie with him, that we may preserve seed of our father. 35 And they made their father drink wine that night also: and the younger arose, and lay with him; and he perceived not when she lay down, nor when she arose. 36 Thus were both the daughters of Lot with child by their father. 37 And the firstborn bare a son, and called his name Moab: the same is the father of the Moabites unto this day. 38 And the younger, she also bare a son, and called his name Benammi: the same is the father of the children of Ammon unto this day." Lot's daughters' sons became the children of the Moabites and the Amorites. They had an inheritance, like the rest of the children of Israel. But later, God had to kill them because they would have killed the children of Israel. God could not put up with that. Because of the grace of God and the mercy of God. May God Bless you Abundantly Steve If you would like to study the Bible further, consider reviewing the Online Classes and Teachings page and the podcast page of the website https://stevejaynes.com. They are all offered free of charge to assist in your spiritual growth and confidence in God. Workbooks The workbook series on "How to Read the Bible for Understanding and Power" is now available. The website will provide information about the Workbooks and how to purchase them. Credits Intro and Outro Music: Larry LoVerme's version of "Be Thou My Vision." Information You can visit our website to stay informed about all the activities we're undertaking here with our podcast. Here's the link to my website: https://stevejaynes.com/ Zoom-dial-in Podcast listeners, you are invited to join us on Zoom this Sunday at 10:30 AM EST. To participate, click on the website (https://stevejaynes.com/zoom-dial-in) and join the meeting. We use this link for all our fellowships. We believe the Bible is the revealed Word and will of God. The Bible means what it says and says what it means. We allow the Word of God to speak for itself by applying key principles to interpret the Bible. The podcast is for only those who favor letting the Word of God speak for itself. If you'd like to support the podcast, please visit stevejaynes.com. On the top of every page, there's a donate button. Don't forget to rate the show and leave a positive review. An excellent rating could make the show more accessible to a broader audience. Contact Information Contact information can be found at the bottom of the website's homepage. To ask biblical questions about what I shared from any of my podcasts, feel free to send your questions or something you'd like to share to my X account. (1) Steve Jaynes (@SteveJaynes) / X [https://x.com/SteveJaynes]

530 – Righteousness, Grace, and Mercy

God 530 – Righteousness, Grace, and Mercy You can follow along with the Scriptures and my notes as I read them. Righteousness, Grace, and mercy are the foundations of the renewed mind. This is the starting point to the renewed mind, knowing that you're righteous, knowing that it comes by grace, and remembering that God is merciful. Romans 3:21 – 21 "But now the righteousness of God without the law is manifested, being witnessed by the law and the prophets; 22 Even the righteousness of God which is by faith of Jesus Christ unto all and upon all them that believe: for there is no difference: 23 For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God; 24 Being justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus: 25 Whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation through faith in his blood, to declare his righteousness for the remission of sins that are past, through the forbearance of God; 26 To declare, I say, at this time his righteousness: that he might be just, and the justifier of him which believeth in Jesus." Romans 4:3 – 11 "For what saith the scripture? Abraham believed God, and it was counted unto him for righteousness. 4 Now to him that worketh is the reward not reckoned of grace, but of debt. 5 But to him that worketh not, but believeth on him that justifieth the ungodly, his faith is counted for righteousness. 6 Even as David also describeth the blessedness of the man, unto whom God imputeth righteousness without works, 7 Saying, Blessed are they whose iniquities are forgiven, and whose sins are covered. 8 Blessed is the man to whom the Lord will not impute sin. 9 Cometh this blessedness then upon the circumcision only, or upon the uncircumcision also? for we say that faith was reckoned to Abraham for righteousness. 10 How was it then reckoned? when he was in circumcision, or in uncircumcision? Not in circumcision, but in uncircumcision. 11 And he received the sign of circumcision, a seal of the righteousness of the faith which he had yet being uncircumcised: that he might be the father of all them that believe, though they be not circumcised; that righteousness might be imputed unto them also:" Romans 4:20 -Romans 5:2 "He staggered not at the promise of God through unbelief; but was strong in faith, giving glory to God; 21 And being fully persuaded that, what he had promised, he was able also to perform. 22 And therefore it was imputed to him for righteousness. 23 Now it was not written for his sake alone, that it was imputed to him; 24 But for us also, to whom it shall be imputed, if we believe on him that raised up Jesus our Lord from the dead; 25 Who was delivered for our offences, and was raised again for our justification. 5:1 Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ: 2 By whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God." Romans 5:15 – 21 "But not as the offence, so also is the free gift. For if through the offence of one many be dead, much more the grace of God, and the gift by grace, which is by one man, Jesus Christ, hath abounded unto many. 16 And not as it was by one that sinned, so is the gift: for the judgment was by one to condemnation, but the free gift is of many offences unto justification. 17 For if by one man's offence death reigned by one; much more they which receive abundance of grace and of the gift of righteousness shall reign in life by one, Jesus Christ.) 18 Therefore as by the offence of one judgment came upon all men to condemnation; even so by the righteousness of one the free gift came upon all men unto justification of life. 19 For as by one man's disobedience many were made sinners, so by the obedience of one shall many be made righteous. 20 Moreover the law entered, that the offence might abound. But where sin abounded, grace did much more abound: 21 That as sin hath reigned unto death, even so might grace reign through righteousness unto eternal life by Jesus Christ our Lord." Where sin did abound, grace much more abounded. Now, let's look at Mercy. Romans 12:1 "I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service." Romans 15:9 "And that the Gentiles might glorify God for his mercy; as it is written, For this cause I will confess to thee among the Gentiles, and sing unto thy name." 2 Corinthians 1:2 – 6 "Grace be to you and peace from God our Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ. 3 Blessed be God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies, and the God of all comfort; 4 Who comforteth us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort them which are in any trouble, by the comfort wherewith we ourselves are comforted of God. 5 For as the sufferings of Christ abound in us, so our consolation also aboundeth by Christ. 6 And whether we be afflicted, it is for your consolation and salvation, which is effectual in the enduring of the same sufferings which we also suffer: or whether we be comforted, it is for your consolation and salvation." Philippians 2:1 – 5 "If there be therefore any consolation in Christ, if any comfort of love, if any fellowship of the Spirit, if any bowels and mercies, 2 Fulfil ye my joy, that ye be likeminded, having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind. 3 Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves. 4 Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others. 5 Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus:" Colossians 3:10 – 15 "And have put on the new man, which is renewed in knowledge after the image of him that created him: 11 Where there is neither Greek nor Jew, circumcision nor uncircumcision, Barbarian, Scythian, bond nor free: but Christ is all, and in all. 12 Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering; 13 Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye. 14 And above all these things put on charity, which is the bond of perfectness. 15 And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful." May God Bless you Abundantly Steve If you would like to study the Bible further, consider reviewing the Online Classes and Teachings page and the podcast page of the website https://stevejaynes.com. They are all offered free of charge to assist in your spiritual growth and confidence in God. Workbooks The workbook series on "How to Read the Bible for Understanding and Power" is now available. The website will provide information about the Workbooks and how to purchase them. Credits Intro and Outro Music: Larry LoVerme's version of "Be Thou My Vision." Information You can visit our website to stay informed about all the activities we're undertaking here with our podcast. Here's the link to my website: https://stevejaynes.com/ Zoom-dial-in Podcast listeners, you are invited to join us on Zoom this Sunday at 10:30 AM EST. To participate, click on the website (https://stevejaynes.com/zoom-dial-in) and join the meeting. We use this link for all our fellowships. We believe the Bible is the revealed Word and will of God. The Bible means what it says and says what it means. We allow the Word of God to speak for itself by applying key principles to interpret the Bible. The podcast is for only those who favour letting the Word of God speak for itself. If you'd like to support the podcast, please visit stevejaynes.com. On the top of every page, there's a donate button. Don't forget to rate the show and leave a positive review. An excellent rating could make the show more accessible to a broader audience. Contact Information Contact information can be found at the bottom of the website's homepage. To ask biblical questions about what I shared from any of my podcasts, feel free to send your questions or something you'd like to share to my X account. (1) Steve Jaynes (@SteveJaynes) / X [https://x.com/SteveJaynes]