John 15 16
You did not choose me, but I chose you...
1 Corinthians 1 9
God, who has called you into fellowship with his Son Jesus Christ our Lord, is faithful.
Ephesians 1 4
For He chose us in Him before the creation of the world to be holy and blameless in His sight.
In love He predestined us to be adopted as His sons through Jesus Christ, in accordance with his pleasure and will.
You did not choose me, but I chose you...
1 Corinthians 1 9
God, who has called you into fellowship with his Son Jesus Christ our Lord, is faithful.
Ephesians 1 4
For He chose us in Him before the creation of the world to be holy and blameless in His sight.
In love He predestined us to be adopted as His sons through Jesus Christ, in accordance with his pleasure and will.
Ephesians 2
4 But because of His great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, 5 made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions--it is by grace you have been saved.
Colossians 1
13 For He has rescued us from the dominion of darkness and brought us into the kingdom of the Son He loves,
14 in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins.
4 But because of His great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, 5 made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions--it is by grace you have been saved.
Colossians 1
13 For He has rescued us from the dominion of darkness and brought us into the kingdom of the Son He loves,
14 in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins.
John 1 12
Yet to all who received Him [Jesus], to those who believed in His name, He gave the right to become children of God.
Romans 5 9
Since we have now been justified by His blood, how much more shall we be saved from God's wrath through Him!
Ephesians 2 8
For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith--and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God. 9not by works, so that no one can boast.
John 1 12
Yet to all who received Him, to those who believed in His name, He gave the right to become children of God- children born not of natural descent, nor of human decision or a husband's will, but born of God.
2 Corinthians 17
Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come!
Ephesians 1 13
And you also were included in Christ when you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation.
Having believed, you were marked in Him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit...
2 Corinthians 1 22
[He] set his seal of ownership on us, and put His Spirit in our hearts as a deposit...
Q- What did God give us when we accepted Christ? (The Bible clearly teaches there is only one God, yet in three “persons”...the Father, the Son (Jesus),
the Holy Spirit.)
Hebrews 13 5
...God has said, "Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you."
John 10
– Jesus said:
My sheep listen to my voice;
I know them, and they follow me.
I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one can snatch them out of my hand.
My Father, who has given them to me, is greater than all; no one can snatch them out of my Father's hand. I and the Father are one.
John 5 – Jesus said:
I tell you the truth, whoever hears my word and believes Him who sent me has eternal life and will not be condemned; he has crossed over from death to life.
1 John 5 11
And this is the testimony: God has given us eternal life, and this life is in his Son.
He who has the Son has life; he who does not have the Son of God does not have life.
I write these things to you who believe in the name of the Son of God so that you may know that you have eternal life.
Romans 8 38
For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers,
neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Conclusion: Summarize from all of these verses how you can know that your relationship with Jesus is secure.
Yet to all who received Him [Jesus], to those who believed in His name, He gave the right to become children of God.
Romans 5 9
Since we have now been justified by His blood, how much more shall we be saved from God's wrath through Him!
Ephesians 2 8
For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith--and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God. 9not by works, so that no one can boast.
John 1 12
Yet to all who received Him, to those who believed in His name, He gave the right to become children of God- children born not of natural descent, nor of human decision or a husband's will, but born of God.
2 Corinthians 17
Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come!
Ephesians 1 13
And you also were included in Christ when you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation.
Having believed, you were marked in Him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit...
2 Corinthians 1 22
[He] set his seal of ownership on us, and put His Spirit in our hearts as a deposit...
Q- What did God give us when we accepted Christ? (The Bible clearly teaches there is only one God, yet in three “persons”...the Father, the Son (Jesus),
the Holy Spirit.)
Hebrews 13 5
...God has said, "Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you."
John 10
– Jesus said:
My sheep listen to my voice;
I know them, and they follow me.
I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one can snatch them out of my hand.
My Father, who has given them to me, is greater than all; no one can snatch them out of my Father's hand. I and the Father are one.
John 5 – Jesus said:
I tell you the truth, whoever hears my word and believes Him who sent me has eternal life and will not be condemned; he has crossed over from death to life.
1 John 5 11
And this is the testimony: God has given us eternal life, and this life is in his Son.
He who has the Son has life; he who does not have the Son of God does not have life.
I write these things to you who believe in the name of the Son of God so that you may know that you have eternal life.
Romans 8 38
For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers,
neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Conclusion: Summarize from all of these verses how you can know that your relationship with Jesus is secure.
God loves you and offers a wonderful plan for your life.
God created you. Not only that, he loves you so much that he wants
you to know him now and spend eternity with him. Jesus said,
"For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son
so that everyone who believes in him will not perish
but have eternal life.
Jesus came so that each of us could know and understand God in a
personal way. Jesus alone can bring meaning and purpose to life.
All of us sin and our sin has separated us from God.
We sense that separation, that distance from God because of our sin. The Bible tells us that "All of us like sheep have gone astray; each of us has turned to his own way.
Deep down, our attitude may be one of active rebellion or passive indifference toward God and his ways, but it's all evidence of what the Bible calls sin.
The result of sin in our lives is death -- spiritual separation from God.3 Although we may try to get close to God through our own effort, we inevitably fail.
"God has given us eternal life, and this life is in His Son. He who has the Son has the life; he who does not have the Son of God does not have the life. These things I have written to you who believe in the name of the Son of God, so that you may know that you have eternal life."
(1John 5:11-13)
(1John 5:11-13)
Christlike for Life
His Steadfast Love Endures Forever
A Psalm for giving thanks.
Make a joyful noise to the Lord, all the earth!
Serve the Lord with gladness! Come into his presence with singing!
Know that the Lord, he is God! It is he who made us, and we are his; we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture.
Enter his gates with thanksgiving,
and his courts with praise!
Give thanks to him; bless his name!
For the Lord is good;
his steadfast love endures forever, and his faithfulness to all generations.
A Psalm for giving thanks.
Make a joyful noise to the Lord, all the earth!
Serve the Lord with gladness! Come into his presence with singing!
Know that the Lord, he is God! It is he who made us, and we are his; we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture.
Enter his gates with thanksgiving,
and his courts with praise!
Give thanks to him; bless his name!
For the Lord is good;
his steadfast love endures forever, and his faithfulness to all generations.
Bible Study
Chtist like for Life
OUR BIGGEST PROBLEM CAN BE CHANGED INTO YOUR GREATEST BLESSING. WE BELIEVE THAT, AT THIS VERY MOMENT,
THE HOLY SPIRIT IS CREATING CIRCUMSTANCES THAT WILL ALLOW A DREAM YOU HOLD DEAR TO MATERIALIZE. AND RELEASE YOUR FAITH TO ENABLE THE HOLY SPIRIT TO MANIFEST SOMETHING DEAR TO YOUR HEART.
THE HOLY SPIRIT IS CREATING CIRCUMSTANCES THAT WILL ALLOW A DREAM YOU HOLD DEAR TO MATERIALIZE. AND RELEASE YOUR FAITH TO ENABLE THE HOLY SPIRIT TO MANIFEST SOMETHING DEAR TO YOUR HEART.
Psalm 124: God, Our Help. Only because God is on Israel’s side has this people survived. So all Israel praises the Maker of heaven and earth, who has proven to be His people’s help.
Psalm 125: A Song of Trust. God does good to those who are good. We can trust in Him, for He alone can never be moved.
Psalm 126: Great Things! Israel’s restoration to her homeland after the Babylonian Captivity is just one of the “great things” the Lord had done for His chosen people.
Psalm 127: Our Heritage. The children God gives us are our “house,” a heritage from the Lord who does not build houses but families.
Psalm 128: Fear of the Lord. The blessings of reverence toward God are celebrated here. We rejoice in the Lord. And we rejoice in His good gifts to us.
“May the Lord bless you” Ps.
128:1–6. Fear of the Lord, that Old Testament respect for God that motivates obedience, is the path of blessing for all of us. In most cases the blessing will be obvious: long life, prosperity, a large and happy family.
These are the things that the Jews of biblical times wished for one another as they gathered for worship. Peace and prosperity.
Not all of us who walk
in God’s way have this experience on earth.
But every one of us
who knows and serves the Lord is assured peace and prosperity
in those “days of your life” which stretch on and on forever in eternity.
Psalm 129: Peace and Prosperity. Against the background of past troubles, the blessings
of peace and prosperity seem doubly important.
Psalm 125: A Song of Trust. God does good to those who are good. We can trust in Him, for He alone can never be moved.
Psalm 126: Great Things! Israel’s restoration to her homeland after the Babylonian Captivity is just one of the “great things” the Lord had done for His chosen people.
Psalm 127: Our Heritage. The children God gives us are our “house,” a heritage from the Lord who does not build houses but families.
Psalm 128: Fear of the Lord. The blessings of reverence toward God are celebrated here. We rejoice in the Lord. And we rejoice in His good gifts to us.
“May the Lord bless you” Ps.
128:1–6. Fear of the Lord, that Old Testament respect for God that motivates obedience, is the path of blessing for all of us. In most cases the blessing will be obvious: long life, prosperity, a large and happy family.
These are the things that the Jews of biblical times wished for one another as they gathered for worship. Peace and prosperity.
Not all of us who walk
in God’s way have this experience on earth.
But every one of us
who knows and serves the Lord is assured peace and prosperity
in those “days of your life” which stretch on and on forever in eternity.
Psalm 129: Peace and Prosperity. Against the background of past troubles, the blessings
of peace and prosperity seem doubly important.
The gospels in the New Testament (Matthew, Mark, Luke, John) show that the disciples were also often confused about faith. However they were wise enough to ask Jesus about it. In Luke, chapter 17, you see the disciples asking Jesus to increase their faith.
Genesis
Genesis is a name taken from the Greek, and signifies “the book of generation or production;” it is properly so called,
as containing an account of the origin of all things. There is no other history so old. There is nothing in the most ancient book which exists that contradicts it; while many things recorded by the oldest heathen writers, or to be traced in the customs of different nations, confirm what is related in the book of Genesis.
Genesis is a name taken from the Greek, and signifies “the book of generation or production;” it is properly so called,
as containing an account of the origin of all things. There is no other history so old. There is nothing in the most ancient book which exists that contradicts it; while many things recorded by the oldest heathen writers, or to be traced in the customs of different nations, confirm what is related in the book of Genesis.
Exodus
The Book of Exodus relates the forming of the children of Israel into a church and a nation. We have hitherto seen true religion shown in domestic life, now, we begin to trace its effects upon the concerns of kingdoms and nations. Exodus signifies “the departure;” the chief event therein recorded is the departure of Israel from Egypt and Egyptian bondage;
it plainly points out the fulfilling of several promises and prophecies to Abraham respecting his seed, and shadows forth the state of the church, in the wilderness of this world, until her arrival at the heavenly Canaan, an eternal rest.
The Book of Exodus relates the forming of the children of Israel into a church and a nation. We have hitherto seen true religion shown in domestic life, now, we begin to trace its effects upon the concerns of kingdoms and nations. Exodus signifies “the departure;” the chief event therein recorded is the departure of Israel from Egypt and Egyptian bondage;
it plainly points out the fulfilling of several promises and prophecies to Abraham respecting his seed, and shadows forth the state of the church, in the wilderness of this world, until her arrival at the heavenly Canaan, an eternal rest.
Leviticus
God ordained divers kinds of oblations and sacrifices, to assure his people of the forgiveness of their offences, if they offered them in true faith and obedience. Also he appointed the priests and Levites, their apparel, offices, conduct, and portion.
He showed what feasts they should observe, and at what times. He declared by these sacrifices and ceremonies, that the reward of sin is death, and that without the blood of Christ, the innocent Lamb of God, there can be no forgiveness of sins.
God ordained divers kinds of oblations and sacrifices, to assure his people of the forgiveness of their offences, if they offered them in true faith and obedience. Also he appointed the priests and Levites, their apparel, offices, conduct, and portion.
He showed what feasts they should observe, and at what times. He declared by these sacrifices and ceremonies, that the reward of sin is death, and that without the blood of Christ, the innocent Lamb of God, there can be no forgiveness of sins.
Numbers
This book is called NUMBERS from the several numberings of the people contained in it. It extends from the giving of the law at Sinai, till their arrival in the plains of Jordan. An account is given of their murmuring and unbelief, for which they were sentenced to wander in the wilderness nearly forty years; also some laws, both, moral and ceremonial. Their trials greatly tended to distinguish the wicked and hypocrites from the faithful and true servants of God, who served him with
a pure heart.
This book is called NUMBERS from the several numberings of the people contained in it. It extends from the giving of the law at Sinai, till their arrival in the plains of Jordan. An account is given of their murmuring and unbelief, for which they were sentenced to wander in the wilderness nearly forty years; also some laws, both, moral and ceremonial. Their trials greatly tended to distinguish the wicked and hypocrites from the faithful and true servants of God, who served him with
a pure heart.
Deuteronomy
This book repeats much of the history and of the laws contained in the three foregoing books: Moses delivered it to Israel
a little before his death, both by word of mouth, that it might affect, and by writing, that it might abide. The men of that generation to which the law was first given were all dead, and a new generation was sprung up, to whom God would have it repeated by Moses himself, now they were going to possess the land of Canaan. The wonderful love of God to his church is set forth in this book; how he ever preserved his church for his own mercies sake, and would still have his name called upon among them. Such are the general outlines of this book, the whole of which shows Moses’ love for Israel, and marks him an eminent type of the Lord Jesus Christ. Let us apply the exhortations and persuasions to our own consciences, to excite our minds to a believing, grateful obedience to the commands of God.
This book repeats much of the history and of the laws contained in the three foregoing books: Moses delivered it to Israel
a little before his death, both by word of mouth, that it might affect, and by writing, that it might abide. The men of that generation to which the law was first given were all dead, and a new generation was sprung up, to whom God would have it repeated by Moses himself, now they were going to possess the land of Canaan. The wonderful love of God to his church is set forth in this book; how he ever preserved his church for his own mercies sake, and would still have his name called upon among them. Such are the general outlines of this book, the whole of which shows Moses’ love for Israel, and marks him an eminent type of the Lord Jesus Christ. Let us apply the exhortations and persuasions to our own consciences, to excite our minds to a believing, grateful obedience to the commands of God.
Joshua
Here is the history of Israel’s passing into the land of Canaan, conquering and dividing it, under the command of Joshua, and their history until his death. The power and truth of God in fulfilling his promises to Israel, and in executing his justly threatened vengeance on the Canaanites, are wonderfully displayed. This should teach us to regard the tremendous curses denounced in the word of God against impenitent sinners, and to seek refuge in Christ Jesus.
Here is the history of Israel’s passing into the land of Canaan, conquering and dividing it, under the command of Joshua, and their history until his death. The power and truth of God in fulfilling his promises to Israel, and in executing his justly threatened vengeance on the Canaanites, are wonderfully displayed. This should teach us to regard the tremendous curses denounced in the word of God against impenitent sinners, and to seek refuge in Christ Jesus.
Judges
The book of Judges is the history of Israel during the government of the Judges, who were occasional deliverers, raised up by God to rescue Israel from their oppressors, to reform the state of religion, and to administer justice to the people.
The state of God’s people does not appear in this book so prosperous, nor their character so religious, as might have been expected; but there were many believers among them, and the tabernacle service was attended to. The history exemplifies the frequent warnings and predictions of Moses, and should have close attention. The whole is full of important instruction.
The book of Judges is the history of Israel during the government of the Judges, who were occasional deliverers, raised up by God to rescue Israel from their oppressors, to reform the state of religion, and to administer justice to the people.
The state of God’s people does not appear in this book so prosperous, nor their character so religious, as might have been expected; but there were many believers among them, and the tabernacle service was attended to. The history exemplifies the frequent warnings and predictions of Moses, and should have close attention. The whole is full of important instruction.
Ruth
We find in this book excellent examples of faith, piety, patience, humility, industry, and loving-kindness, in the common events of life. Also we see the special care which God’s providence take of our smallest concerns, encouraging us to full trust therein. We may view this book as a beautiful, because natural representation of human life; as a curious detail of important facts; and as a part of the plan of redemption.
We find in this book excellent examples of faith, piety, patience, humility, industry, and loving-kindness, in the common events of life. Also we see the special care which God’s providence take of our smallest concerns, encouraging us to full trust therein. We may view this book as a beautiful, because natural representation of human life; as a curious detail of important facts; and as a part of the plan of redemption.
1 Samuel
In this book we have an account of Eli, and the wickedness of his sons; also of Samuel, his character and actions.
Then of the advancement of Saul to be the king of Israel, and his ill behaviour, until his death made way for David’s succession to the throne, who was an eminent type of Christ. David’s patience, modesty, constancy, persecution by open enemies and feigned friends, are a pattern and example to the church, and to every member of it. Many things in this book encourage the faith, hope, and patience of the suffering believer. It contains also many useful cautions and awful warnings.
In this book we have an account of Eli, and the wickedness of his sons; also of Samuel, his character and actions.
Then of the advancement of Saul to be the king of Israel, and his ill behaviour, until his death made way for David’s succession to the throne, who was an eminent type of Christ. David’s patience, modesty, constancy, persecution by open enemies and feigned friends, are a pattern and example to the church, and to every member of it. Many things in this book encourage the faith, hope, and patience of the suffering believer. It contains also many useful cautions and awful warnings.
2 Samuel
This book is the history of the reign of king David. It relates his victories, the growth of the prosperity of Israel, and his reformation of the state of religion. With these events are recorded the grievous sins he committed, and the family as well as public troubles with which he was punished. We here meet with many things worthy of imitation, and many that are written for our warning. The history of king David is given in Scripture with much faithfulness, and from it he appears, to those who fairly balance his many virtues and excellent qualities against his faults, to have been a great and good man.
This book is the history of the reign of king David. It relates his victories, the growth of the prosperity of Israel, and his reformation of the state of religion. With these events are recorded the grievous sins he committed, and the family as well as public troubles with which he was punished. We here meet with many things worthy of imitation, and many that are written for our warning. The history of king David is given in Scripture with much faithfulness, and from it he appears, to those who fairly balance his many virtues and excellent qualities against his faults, to have been a great and good man.
1 Kings
The history now before us accounts for the affairs of the kingdoms of Judah and Israel, yet with special regard to the kingdom of God among them; for it is a sacred history. It is earlier as to time, teaches much more, and is more interesting than any common histories.
The history now before us accounts for the affairs of the kingdoms of Judah and Israel, yet with special regard to the kingdom of God among them; for it is a sacred history. It is earlier as to time, teaches much more, and is more interesting than any common histories.
2Kings
The revolt of Moab—Sickness of Ahaziah, king of Israel _Fire called from heaven by Elijah—Death of Ahaziah
The revolt of Moab—Sickness of Ahaziah, king of Israel _Fire called from heaven by Elijah—Death of Ahaziah
1 Chronicles
The books of Chronicles are, in a great measure, repetitions of what is in the books of Samuel and of the Kings, yet there are some excellent useful things in them which we find not elsewhere. The FIRST BOOK traces the rise of the Jewish people from Adam, and afterward gives an account of the reign of David. In the SECOND BOOK the narrative is continued, and relates the progress and end of the kingdom of Judah; also it notices the return of the Jews from the Babylonish captivity. Jerome says, that whoever supposes himself to have knowledge of the Scriptures without being acquainted with the books of Chronicles, deceives himself. Historical facts passed over elsewhere, names, and the connexion of passages are to be found here, and many questions concerning the gospel are explained.
The books of Chronicles are, in a great measure, repetitions of what is in the books of Samuel and of the Kings, yet there are some excellent useful things in them which we find not elsewhere. The FIRST BOOK traces the rise of the Jewish people from Adam, and afterward gives an account of the reign of David. In the SECOND BOOK the narrative is continued, and relates the progress and end of the kingdom of Judah; also it notices the return of the Jews from the Babylonish captivity. Jerome says, that whoever supposes himself to have knowledge of the Scriptures without being acquainted with the books of Chronicles, deceives himself. Historical facts passed over elsewhere, names, and the connexion of passages are to be found here, and many questions concerning the gospel are explained.
2 Chronicles Solomon’s choice of wisdom, His strength and wealth.
Ezra
The history of this book is the accomplishment of Jeremiah’s prophecy concerning the return of the Jews out of Babylon. From its contents we especially learn, that every good work will meet with opposition from enemies, and be hurt by the misconduct of friends; but that God will make his cause to prevail, notwithstanding all obstacles and adversaries.
The restoration of the Jews was an event of the highest consequence, tending to preserve religion in the world, and preparing the way for the appearance of the Great Deliverer, the Lord Jesus Christ.
The history of this book is the accomplishment of Jeremiah’s prophecy concerning the return of the Jews out of Babylon. From its contents we especially learn, that every good work will meet with opposition from enemies, and be hurt by the misconduct of friends; but that God will make his cause to prevail, notwithstanding all obstacles and adversaries.
The restoration of the Jews was an event of the highest consequence, tending to preserve religion in the world, and preparing the way for the appearance of the Great Deliverer, the Lord Jesus Christ.
Nehemiah
The Old Testament history closes with the book of Nehemiah, wherein is recorded the workings of his heart, in the management of public affairs; with many devout reflections.
The Old Testament history closes with the book of Nehemiah, wherein is recorded the workings of his heart, in the management of public affairs; with many devout reflections.
Esther
We find in this book, that even those Jews who were scattered in the province of the heathen, were taken care of, and were wonderfully preserved, when threatened with destruction. Though the name of God be not in this book, the finger of God is shown by minute events for the bringing about his people’s deliverance. This history comes in between
Ezr 6; 7.
We find in this book, that even those Jews who were scattered in the province of the heathen, were taken care of, and were wonderfully preserved, when threatened with destruction. Though the name of God be not in this book, the finger of God is shown by minute events for the bringing about his people’s deliverance. This history comes in between
Ezr 6; 7.
Job
This book is so called from Job, whose prosperity, afflictions, and restoration, are here recorded. He lived soon after Abraham, or perhaps before that patriarch. Most likely it was written by Job himself, and it is the most ancient book
in existence. The instructions to be learned from the patience of Job, and from his trials, are as useful now, and as much needed as ever. We live under the same Providence, we have the same chastening Father, and there is the same need
for correction unto righteousness. The fortitude and patience of Job, though not small, gave way in his severe troubles;
but his faith was fixed upon the coming of his Redeemer, and this gave him stedfastness and constancy, though every other dependence, particularly the pride and boast of a self-righteous spirit, was tried and consumed. Another great doctrine of the faith, particularly set forth in the book of Job, is that of Providence. It is plain, from this history, that the Lord watched over his servant Job with the affection of a wise and loving father.
This book is so called from Job, whose prosperity, afflictions, and restoration, are here recorded. He lived soon after Abraham, or perhaps before that patriarch. Most likely it was written by Job himself, and it is the most ancient book
in existence. The instructions to be learned from the patience of Job, and from his trials, are as useful now, and as much needed as ever. We live under the same Providence, we have the same chastening Father, and there is the same need
for correction unto righteousness. The fortitude and patience of Job, though not small, gave way in his severe troubles;
but his faith was fixed upon the coming of his Redeemer, and this gave him stedfastness and constancy, though every other dependence, particularly the pride and boast of a self-righteous spirit, was tried and consumed. Another great doctrine of the faith, particularly set forth in the book of Job, is that of Providence. It is plain, from this history, that the Lord watched over his servant Job with the affection of a wise and loving father.
Psalms
David was the penman of most of the psalms, but some evidently were composed by other writers, and the writers of some are doubtful. But all were written by the inspiration of the Holy Ghost; and no part of the Old Testament is more frequently quoted or referred to in the New. Every psalm either points directly to Christ, in his person, his character, and offices; or may lead the believer’s thoughts to Him. And the psalms are the language of the believer’s heart,
whether mourning for sin, thirsting after God, or rejoicing in Him. Whether burdened with affliction, struggling with temptation, or triumphing in the hope or enjoyment of deliverance; whether admiring the Divine perfections, thanking God for his mercies, mediating on his truths, or delighting in his service; they form a Divinely appointed standard of experience, by which we may judge ourselves. Their value, in this view, is very great, and the use of them will increase with the growth of the power of true religion in the heart. By the psalmist’s expressions, the Spirit helps us to pray.
If we make the psalms familiar to us, whatever we have to ask at the throne of grace, by way of confession, petition,
or thanksgiving, we may be assisted from thence. Whatever devout affection is working in us, holy desire or hope, sorrow or joy, we may here find words to clothe it; sound speech which cannot be condemned. In the language of this Divine book, the prayers and praises of the church have been offered up to the throne of grace from age to age.
David was the penman of most of the psalms, but some evidently were composed by other writers, and the writers of some are doubtful. But all were written by the inspiration of the Holy Ghost; and no part of the Old Testament is more frequently quoted or referred to in the New. Every psalm either points directly to Christ, in his person, his character, and offices; or may lead the believer’s thoughts to Him. And the psalms are the language of the believer’s heart,
whether mourning for sin, thirsting after God, or rejoicing in Him. Whether burdened with affliction, struggling with temptation, or triumphing in the hope or enjoyment of deliverance; whether admiring the Divine perfections, thanking God for his mercies, mediating on his truths, or delighting in his service; they form a Divinely appointed standard of experience, by which we may judge ourselves. Their value, in this view, is very great, and the use of them will increase with the growth of the power of true religion in the heart. By the psalmist’s expressions, the Spirit helps us to pray.
If we make the psalms familiar to us, whatever we have to ask at the throne of grace, by way of confession, petition,
or thanksgiving, we may be assisted from thence. Whatever devout affection is working in us, holy desire or hope, sorrow or joy, we may here find words to clothe it; sound speech which cannot be condemned. In the language of this Divine book, the prayers and praises of the church have been offered up to the throne of grace from age to age.
Proverbs
The subject of this book may be thus stated by an enlargement on the opening verses. 1. The Proverbs of Solomon,
the son of David, king of Israel. 2. Which treat of the knowledge of wisdom, of piety towards God, of instruction and moral discipline, of the understanding wise and prudent counsels. 3. Which treat of the attainment of instruction in wisdom, which wisdom is to be shown in the conduct of life, and consists in righteousness with regard to our fellow-creatures. Which treat of the giving to the simple sagacity to discover what is right, by supplying them with just principles, and correct views of virtue and vice; and to the young man knowledge, so that he need not err through ignorance; and discretion, so that by pondering well these precepts, he may not err through obstinacy. Take the proverbs of other nations, and we shall find great numbers founded upon selfishness, cunning, pride, injustice, national contempt, and animosities. The principles of the Proverbs of Solomon are piety, charity, justice, benevolence, and true prudence. Their universal purity proves that they are the word of God.
The subject of this book may be thus stated by an enlargement on the opening verses. 1. The Proverbs of Solomon,
the son of David, king of Israel. 2. Which treat of the knowledge of wisdom, of piety towards God, of instruction and moral discipline, of the understanding wise and prudent counsels. 3. Which treat of the attainment of instruction in wisdom, which wisdom is to be shown in the conduct of life, and consists in righteousness with regard to our fellow-creatures. Which treat of the giving to the simple sagacity to discover what is right, by supplying them with just principles, and correct views of virtue and vice; and to the young man knowledge, so that he need not err through ignorance; and discretion, so that by pondering well these precepts, he may not err through obstinacy. Take the proverbs of other nations, and we shall find great numbers founded upon selfishness, cunning, pride, injustice, national contempt, and animosities. The principles of the Proverbs of Solomon are piety, charity, justice, benevolence, and true prudence. Their universal purity proves that they are the word of God.
Ecclesiastes
The name of this book signifies “The Preacher.” The wisdom of God here preaches to us, speaking by Solomon,
who it is evident was the author. At the close of his life, being made sensible of his sin and folly, he recorded here
his experience for the benefit of others, as the book of his repentance; and he pronounced all earthly good to be
“vanity and vexation of spirit.” It convinces us of the vanity of the world, and that it cannot make us happy; of the vileness of sin, and its certain tendency to make us miserable. It shows that no created good can satisfy the soul,
and that happiness is to be found in God alone; and this doctrine must, under the blessed Spirit’s teaching, lead the heart to Christ Jesus.
The name of this book signifies “The Preacher.” The wisdom of God here preaches to us, speaking by Solomon,
who it is evident was the author. At the close of his life, being made sensible of his sin and folly, he recorded here
his experience for the benefit of others, as the book of his repentance; and he pronounced all earthly good to be
“vanity and vexation of spirit.” It convinces us of the vanity of the world, and that it cannot make us happy; of the vileness of sin, and its certain tendency to make us miserable. It shows that no created good can satisfy the soul,
and that happiness is to be found in God alone; and this doctrine must, under the blessed Spirit’s teaching, lead the heart to Christ Jesus.
Songs of Songs
This book is a Divine allegory, which represents the love between Christ and his church of true believers, under figures taken from the relation and affection that subsist between a bridegroom and his espoused bride; an emblem often employed in Scripture, as describing the nearest, firmest, and most sure relation: see Ps 45; Isa 54:5, 6; 62:5; Jer 2:2; 3:1; also in Ezekiel, Hosea, and by our Lord himself, Mt 9:15; 25:1: see also Re 21:2, 9; Eph 5:27. There is no character
in the church of Christ, and no situation in which the believer is placed, but what may be traced in this book, as humble inquirers will find, on comparing it with other Scriptures, by the assistance of God the Holy Spirit, in answer to their supplications. Much, however, of the language has been misunderstood by expositors and translators. The difference between the customs and manners of Europe, and those of the East, must especially be kept in view.
The little acquaintance with eastern customs possessed by most of our early expositors and translators, has in many cases prevented a correct rendering. Also, the changes in our own language, during the last two or three centuries, affect
the manner in which some expressions are viewed, and they must not be judged by modern notions. But the great outlines, rightly interpreted, fully accord with the affections and experience of the sincere Christian.
This book is a Divine allegory, which represents the love between Christ and his church of true believers, under figures taken from the relation and affection that subsist between a bridegroom and his espoused bride; an emblem often employed in Scripture, as describing the nearest, firmest, and most sure relation: see Ps 45; Isa 54:5, 6; 62:5; Jer 2:2; 3:1; also in Ezekiel, Hosea, and by our Lord himself, Mt 9:15; 25:1: see also Re 21:2, 9; Eph 5:27. There is no character
in the church of Christ, and no situation in which the believer is placed, but what may be traced in this book, as humble inquirers will find, on comparing it with other Scriptures, by the assistance of God the Holy Spirit, in answer to their supplications. Much, however, of the language has been misunderstood by expositors and translators. The difference between the customs and manners of Europe, and those of the East, must especially be kept in view.
The little acquaintance with eastern customs possessed by most of our early expositors and translators, has in many cases prevented a correct rendering. Also, the changes in our own language, during the last two or three centuries, affect
the manner in which some expressions are viewed, and they must not be judged by modern notions. But the great outlines, rightly interpreted, fully accord with the affections and experience of the sincere Christian.
Isaiah
Isaiah prophesied in the reigns of Uzziah, Jotham, Ahaz, and Hezekiah. He has been well called the evangelical prophet, on account of his numerous and full prophesies concerning the coming and character, the ministry and preaching, the sufferings and death of the Messiah, and the extent and continuance of his kingdom. Under the veil of the deliverance from Babylon, Isaiah points to a much greater deliverance, which was to be effected by the Messiah; and seldom does he mention the one, without alluding at the same time to the other; nay, he is often so much enraptured with the prospect of the more distant deliverance, as to lose sight of that which was nearer, and to dwell on the Messiah’s person, office, character, and kingdom.
Isaiah prophesied in the reigns of Uzziah, Jotham, Ahaz, and Hezekiah. He has been well called the evangelical prophet, on account of his numerous and full prophesies concerning the coming and character, the ministry and preaching, the sufferings and death of the Messiah, and the extent and continuance of his kingdom. Under the veil of the deliverance from Babylon, Isaiah points to a much greater deliverance, which was to be effected by the Messiah; and seldom does he mention the one, without alluding at the same time to the other; nay, he is often so much enraptured with the prospect of the more distant deliverance, as to lose sight of that which was nearer, and to dwell on the Messiah’s person, office, character, and kingdom.
Jeremiah
Jeremiah was a priest, a native of Anathoth, in the tribe of Benjamin. He was called to the prophetic office when very young, about seventy years after the death of Isaiah, and exercised it for about forty years with great faithfulness,
till the sins of the Jewish nation came to their full measure and destruction followed. The prophecies of Jeremiah do
not stand as they were delivered. Blayney has endeavoured to arrange them in more regular order, namely,
ch. 1–20; 22; 23; 25; 26; 35; 36; 45; 24; 29; 30; 31; 27; 28; 21; 34; 37; 32; 33; 38; 39; (ver. 15–18, 1–14.) 40–44; 46–52. The general subject of his prophecies is the idolatry and other sins of the Jews; the judgments by which they were threatened, with references to their future restoration and deliverance, and promises of the Messiah.
They are remarkable for plain and faithful reproofs, affectionate expostulations, and awful warnings.
Jeremiah was a priest, a native of Anathoth, in the tribe of Benjamin. He was called to the prophetic office when very young, about seventy years after the death of Isaiah, and exercised it for about forty years with great faithfulness,
till the sins of the Jewish nation came to their full measure and destruction followed. The prophecies of Jeremiah do
not stand as they were delivered. Blayney has endeavoured to arrange them in more regular order, namely,
ch. 1–20; 22; 23; 25; 26; 35; 36; 45; 24; 29; 30; 31; 27; 28; 21; 34; 37; 32; 33; 38; 39; (ver. 15–18, 1–14.) 40–44; 46–52. The general subject of his prophecies is the idolatry and other sins of the Jews; the judgments by which they were threatened, with references to their future restoration and deliverance, and promises of the Messiah.
They are remarkable for plain and faithful reproofs, affectionate expostulations, and awful warnings.
Lamentations
It is evident that Jeremiah was the author of the Lamentations which bear his name. The book was not written till
after the destruction of Jerusalem by the Chaldeans. May we be led to consider sin as the cause of all our calamities,
and under trials exercise submission, repentance, faith, and prayer, with the hope of promised deliverance through God’s mercy.
It is evident that Jeremiah was the author of the Lamentations which bear his name. The book was not written till
after the destruction of Jerusalem by the Chaldeans. May we be led to consider sin as the cause of all our calamities,
and under trials exercise submission, repentance, faith, and prayer, with the hope of promised deliverance through God’s mercy.
Ezekiel
Ezekiel was one of the priests; he was carried captive to Chaldea with Jehoiachin. All his prophecies appear to have been delivered in that country, at some place north of Babylon. Their chief object appears to have been to comfort his brethren in captivity. He is directed to warn of the dreadful calamities coming upon Judea, particularly upon the false prophets, and the neighbouring nations. Also to announce the future restoration of Israel and Judah from their several dispersions, and their happy state in their latter days, under the Messiah. Much of Christ will be found in this book, especially in the conclusion.
Ezekiel was one of the priests; he was carried captive to Chaldea with Jehoiachin. All his prophecies appear to have been delivered in that country, at some place north of Babylon. Their chief object appears to have been to comfort his brethren in captivity. He is directed to warn of the dreadful calamities coming upon Judea, particularly upon the false prophets, and the neighbouring nations. Also to announce the future restoration of Israel and Judah from their several dispersions, and their happy state in their latter days, under the Messiah. Much of Christ will be found in this book, especially in the conclusion.
Daniel
Daniel was of noble birth, if not one of the royal family of Judah. He was carried captive to Babylon in the fourth year
of Jehoiachin, b.c. 606, when a youth. He was there taught the learning of the Chaldeans, and held high offices,
both under the Babylonian and Persian empires. He was persecuted for his religion, but was miraculously delivered;
and lived to a great age, as he must have been about ninety-four years old at the time of the last of his visions.
The book of Daniel is partly historical, relating various circumstances which befel himself and the Jews, at Babylon;
but is chiefly prophetical, detailing visions and prophecies which foretell numerous important events relative to the four great empires of the world, the coming and death of the Messiah, the restoration of the Jews, and the conversion
of the Gentiles. Though there are considerable difficulties in explaining the prophetical meaning of some passages
in this book, we always find encouragement to faith and hope, examples worthy of imitation, and something to direct
our thoughts to Christ Jesus upon the cross and on his glorious throne.
Daniel was of noble birth, if not one of the royal family of Judah. He was carried captive to Babylon in the fourth year
of Jehoiachin, b.c. 606, when a youth. He was there taught the learning of the Chaldeans, and held high offices,
both under the Babylonian and Persian empires. He was persecuted for his religion, but was miraculously delivered;
and lived to a great age, as he must have been about ninety-four years old at the time of the last of his visions.
The book of Daniel is partly historical, relating various circumstances which befel himself and the Jews, at Babylon;
but is chiefly prophetical, detailing visions and prophecies which foretell numerous important events relative to the four great empires of the world, the coming and death of the Messiah, the restoration of the Jews, and the conversion
of the Gentiles. Though there are considerable difficulties in explaining the prophetical meaning of some passages
in this book, we always find encouragement to faith and hope, examples worthy of imitation, and something to direct
our thoughts to Christ Jesus upon the cross and on his glorious throne.
Hosea
Hosea is supposed to have been of the kingdom of Israel. He lived and prophesied during a long period. The scope of his predictions appears to be, to detect, reprove, and convince the Jewish nation in general, and the Israelites in particular, of their many sins, particularly their idolatry: the corrupt state of the kingdom is also noticed. But he invites them
to repentance, with promises of mercy, and gospel predictions of the future restoration of the Israelites and of the Jews, and their final conversion to Christianity.
Hosea is supposed to have been of the kingdom of Israel. He lived and prophesied during a long period. The scope of his predictions appears to be, to detect, reprove, and convince the Jewish nation in general, and the Israelites in particular, of their many sins, particularly their idolatry: the corrupt state of the kingdom is also noticed. But he invites them
to repentance, with promises of mercy, and gospel predictions of the future restoration of the Israelites and of the Jews, and their final conversion to Christianity.
Joel
From the desolations about to come upon the land of Judah, by the ravages of locusts and other insects, the prophet Joel exhorts the Jews to repentance, fasting, and prayer. He notices the blessings of the gospel, with the final glorious state of the church.
From the desolations about to come upon the land of Judah, by the ravages of locusts and other insects, the prophet Joel exhorts the Jews to repentance, fasting, and prayer. He notices the blessings of the gospel, with the final glorious state of the church.
Amos
Amos was a herdsman, and engaged in agriculture. But the same Divine Spirit influenced Isaiah and Daniel in the court, and Amos in the sheep-folds, giving to each the powers and eloquence needful for them. He assures the twelve tribes of the destruction of the neighbouring nations; and as they at that time gave themselves up to wickedness
and idolatry, he reproves the Jewish nation with severity; but describes the restoration of the church by the Messiah, extending to the latter days.
Amos was a herdsman, and engaged in agriculture. But the same Divine Spirit influenced Isaiah and Daniel in the court, and Amos in the sheep-folds, giving to each the powers and eloquence needful for them. He assures the twelve tribes of the destruction of the neighbouring nations; and as they at that time gave themselves up to wickedness
and idolatry, he reproves the Jewish nation with severity; but describes the restoration of the church by the Messiah, extending to the latter days.
Obadiah
The first part denounces the destruction of Edom, dwelling upon the injuries they inflicted upon the Jews.
The second foretells the restoration of the Jews, and the latter glories of the church.
The first part denounces the destruction of Edom, dwelling upon the injuries they inflicted upon the Jews.
The second foretells the restoration of the Jews, and the latter glories of the church.
Jonah
Jonah was a native of Galilee, 2Ki 14:25. His miraculous deliverance from out of the fish, rendered him a type of our blessed Lord, who mentions it, so as to show the certain truth of the narrative. All that was done was easy to the almighty power of the Author and Sustainer of life. This book shows us, by the example of the Ninevites, how great
are the Divine forbearance and long-suffering towards sinners. It shows a most striking contrast between the goodness and mercy of God, and the rebellion, impatience, and peevishness of his servant; and it will be best understood by those who are most acquainted with their own hearts.
Jonah was a native of Galilee, 2Ki 14:25. His miraculous deliverance from out of the fish, rendered him a type of our blessed Lord, who mentions it, so as to show the certain truth of the narrative. All that was done was easy to the almighty power of the Author and Sustainer of life. This book shows us, by the example of the Ninevites, how great
are the Divine forbearance and long-suffering towards sinners. It shows a most striking contrast between the goodness and mercy of God, and the rebellion, impatience, and peevishness of his servant; and it will be best understood by those who are most acquainted with their own hearts.
Micah
Micah was raised up to support Isaiah, and to confirm his predictions, while he invited to repentance, both by threatened judgments and promised mercies. A very remarkable passage, Mic 5 contains a summary of prophecies concerning the Messiah.
Micah was raised up to support Isaiah, and to confirm his predictions, while he invited to repentance, both by threatened judgments and promised mercies. A very remarkable passage, Mic 5 contains a summary of prophecies concerning the Messiah.
Nahum
This prophet denounces the certain and approaching destruction of the Assyrian empire, particularly of Nineveh,
which is described very minutely. Together with this is consolation for his countrymen, encouraging them to trust in God.
This prophet denounces the certain and approaching destruction of the Assyrian empire, particularly of Nineveh,
which is described very minutely. Together with this is consolation for his countrymen, encouraging them to trust in God.
Habakkuk
The subject of this prophecy is the destruction of Judea and Jerusalem for the sins of the people, and the consolation
of the faithful under national calamities.
The subject of this prophecy is the destruction of Judea and Jerusalem for the sins of the people, and the consolation
of the faithful under national calamities.
Zephaniah
Zephaniah excites to repentance, foretells the destruction of the enemies of the Jews, and comforts the pious among them with promises of future blessings, the restoration of their nation, and the prosperity of the church in the latter days.
Zephaniah excites to repentance, foretells the destruction of the enemies of the Jews, and comforts the pious among them with promises of future blessings, the restoration of their nation, and the prosperity of the church in the latter days.
Haggai
After the return from captivity, Haggai was sent to encourage the people to rebuild the temple, and to reprove their neglect. To encourage their undertaking, the people are assured that the glory of the second temple shall far exceed that of the first, by the appearing therein of Christ, the Desire of all nations.
After the return from captivity, Haggai was sent to encourage the people to rebuild the temple, and to reprove their neglect. To encourage their undertaking, the people are assured that the glory of the second temple shall far exceed that of the first, by the appearing therein of Christ, the Desire of all nations.
Zechariah
This prophecy is suitable to all, as the scope is to reprove for sin, and threaten God’s judgments against the impenitent, and to encourage those that feared God, with assurances of the mercy God had in store for his church, and especially
of the coming of the Messiah, and the setting up his kingdom in the world.
This prophecy is suitable to all, as the scope is to reprove for sin, and threaten God’s judgments against the impenitent, and to encourage those that feared God, with assurances of the mercy God had in store for his church, and especially
of the coming of the Messiah, and the setting up his kingdom in the world.
Malachi
Malachi was the last of the prophets, and is supposed to have prophesied b.c. 420. He reproves the priests and the people for the evil practices into which they had fallen, and invites them to repentance and reformation, with promises of the blessings to be bestowed at the coming of the Messiah. And now that prophecy was to cease, he speaks clearly of the Messiah, as nigh at hand, and directs the people of God to keep in rememberance the law of Moses, while they were in expectation of the gospel of Christ.
Malachi was the last of the prophets, and is supposed to have prophesied b.c. 420. He reproves the priests and the people for the evil practices into which they had fallen, and invites them to repentance and reformation, with promises of the blessings to be bestowed at the coming of the Messiah. And now that prophecy was to cease, he speaks clearly of the Messiah, as nigh at hand, and directs the people of God to keep in rememberance the law of Moses, while they were in expectation of the gospel of Christ.
Matthew
Matthew, surnamed Levi, before his conversion was a publican, or tax-gatherer under the Romans at Capernaum.
He is generally allowed to have written his Gospel before any other of the evangelists. The contents of this Gospel,
and the evidence of ancient writers, show that it was written primarily for the use of the Jewish nation. The fulfilment
of prophecy was regarded by the Jews as strong evidence, therefore this is especially dwelt upon by St. Matthew.
Here are particularly selected such parts of our Saviour’s history and discourses as were best suited to awaken the Jewish nation to a sense of their sins; to remove their erroneous expectations of an earthly kingdom; to abate their pride and self-conceit; to teach them the spiritual nature and extent of the gospel; and to prepare them for the admission of the Gentiles into the church.
Matthew, surnamed Levi, before his conversion was a publican, or tax-gatherer under the Romans at Capernaum.
He is generally allowed to have written his Gospel before any other of the evangelists. The contents of this Gospel,
and the evidence of ancient writers, show that it was written primarily for the use of the Jewish nation. The fulfilment
of prophecy was regarded by the Jews as strong evidence, therefore this is especially dwelt upon by St. Matthew.
Here are particularly selected such parts of our Saviour’s history and discourses as were best suited to awaken the Jewish nation to a sense of their sins; to remove their erroneous expectations of an earthly kingdom; to abate their pride and self-conceit; to teach them the spiritual nature and extent of the gospel; and to prepare them for the admission of the Gentiles into the church.
Mark
Mark was a sister’s son to Barnabas, Col 4:10; and Ac 12:12 shows that he was the son of Mary, a pious woman of Jerusalem, at whose house the apostles and first Christians assembled. From Peter’s styling him his son, 1Pe 5:13,
the evangelist is supposed to have been converted by that apostle. Thus Mark was closely united with the followers
of our Lord, if not himself one of the number. Mark wrote at Rome; some suppose that Peter dictated to him, though the general testimony is, that the apostle having preached at Rome, Mark, who was the apostle’s companion, and had
a clear understanding of what Peter delivered, was desired to commit the particulars to writing. And we may remark, that the great humility of Peter is very plain where any thing is said about himself. Scarcely an action or a work of Christ is mentioned, at which this apostle was not present, and the minuteness shows that the facts were related by
an eye-witness. This Gospel records more of the miracles than of the discourses of our Lord, and though in many things it relates the same things as the Gospel according to St. Matthew, we may reap advantages from reviewing the same events, placed by each of the evangelists in that point of view which most affected his own mind.
Mark was a sister’s son to Barnabas, Col 4:10; and Ac 12:12 shows that he was the son of Mary, a pious woman of Jerusalem, at whose house the apostles and first Christians assembled. From Peter’s styling him his son, 1Pe 5:13,
the evangelist is supposed to have been converted by that apostle. Thus Mark was closely united with the followers
of our Lord, if not himself one of the number. Mark wrote at Rome; some suppose that Peter dictated to him, though the general testimony is, that the apostle having preached at Rome, Mark, who was the apostle’s companion, and had
a clear understanding of what Peter delivered, was desired to commit the particulars to writing. And we may remark, that the great humility of Peter is very plain where any thing is said about himself. Scarcely an action or a work of Christ is mentioned, at which this apostle was not present, and the minuteness shows that the facts were related by
an eye-witness. This Gospel records more of the miracles than of the discourses of our Lord, and though in many things it relates the same things as the Gospel according to St. Matthew, we may reap advantages from reviewing the same events, placed by each of the evangelists in that point of view which most affected his own mind.
Luke
This evangelist is generally supposed to have been a physician, and a companion of the apostle Paul. The style of his writings, and his acquaintance with the Jewish rites and usages, sufficiently show that he was a Jew, while his knowledge of the Greek language and his name, speak his Gentile origin. He is first mentioned Ac 16:10, 11, as with Paul at Troas, whence he attended him to Jerusalem, and was with him in his voyage, and in his imprisonment at Rome. This Gospel appears to be designed to supersede many defective and unauthentic narratives in circulation,
and to give a genuine and inspired account of the life, miracles, and doctrines of our Lord, learned from those who heard and witnessed his discourses and miracles.
This evangelist is generally supposed to have been a physician, and a companion of the apostle Paul. The style of his writings, and his acquaintance with the Jewish rites and usages, sufficiently show that he was a Jew, while his knowledge of the Greek language and his name, speak his Gentile origin. He is first mentioned Ac 16:10, 11, as with Paul at Troas, whence he attended him to Jerusalem, and was with him in his voyage, and in his imprisonment at Rome. This Gospel appears to be designed to supersede many defective and unauthentic narratives in circulation,
and to give a genuine and inspired account of the life, miracles, and doctrines of our Lord, learned from those who heard and witnessed his discourses and miracles.
John
The apostle and evangelist, John, seems to have been the youngest of the twelve. He was especially favoured with our Lord’s regard and confidence, so as to be spoken of as the disciple whom Jesus loved. He was very sincerely attached
to his Master. He exercised his ministry at Jerusalem with much success, and outlived the destruction of that city, agreeably to Christ’s prediction, ch. 21:22. History relates that after the death of Christ’s mother, John resided chiefly
at Ephesus. Towards the close of Domitian’s reign he was banished to the isle of Patmos, where he wrote his Revelation. On the accession of Nerva, he was set at liberty, and returned to Ephesus, where it is thought he wrote his Gospel and Epistles, about a.d. 97, and died soon after. The design of this Gospel appears to be to convey to the Christian world, just notions of the real nature, office, and character of that Divine Teacher, who came to instruct and to redeem mankind.
For this purpose, John was directed to select for his narrative, those passages of our Saviour’s life, which most clearly displayed his Divine power and authority; and those of his discourses, in which he spake most plainly of his own nature, and of the power of his death, as an atonement for the sins of the world. By omitting, or only briefly mentioning, the events recorded by the other evangelists, John gave testimony that their narratives are true, and left room for the doctrinal statements already mentioned, and for particulars omitted in the other Gospels, many of which are exceedingly important.
The apostle and evangelist, John, seems to have been the youngest of the twelve. He was especially favoured with our Lord’s regard and confidence, so as to be spoken of as the disciple whom Jesus loved. He was very sincerely attached
to his Master. He exercised his ministry at Jerusalem with much success, and outlived the destruction of that city, agreeably to Christ’s prediction, ch. 21:22. History relates that after the death of Christ’s mother, John resided chiefly
at Ephesus. Towards the close of Domitian’s reign he was banished to the isle of Patmos, where he wrote his Revelation. On the accession of Nerva, he was set at liberty, and returned to Ephesus, where it is thought he wrote his Gospel and Epistles, about a.d. 97, and died soon after. The design of this Gospel appears to be to convey to the Christian world, just notions of the real nature, office, and character of that Divine Teacher, who came to instruct and to redeem mankind.
For this purpose, John was directed to select for his narrative, those passages of our Saviour’s life, which most clearly displayed his Divine power and authority; and those of his discourses, in which he spake most plainly of his own nature, and of the power of his death, as an atonement for the sins of the world. By omitting, or only briefly mentioning, the events recorded by the other evangelists, John gave testimony that their narratives are true, and left room for the doctrinal statements already mentioned, and for particulars omitted in the other Gospels, many of which are exceedingly important.
Acts
This book unites the Gospels to the Epistles. It contains many particulars concerning the apostles Peter and Paul, and of the Christian church from the ascension of our Saviour to the arrival of St. Paul at Rome, a space of about thirty years.
St. Luke was the writer of this book; he was present at many of the events he relates, and attended Paul to Rome.
But the narrative does not afford a complete history of the church during the time to which it refers, nor even of St. Paul’s life. The object of the book has been considered to be, 1. To relate in what manner the gifts of the Holy Spirit were communicated on the day of Pentecost, and the miracles performed by the apostles, to confirm the truth of Christianity, as showing that Christ’s declarations were really fulfilled. 2. To prove the claim of the Gentiles to be admitted into the church of Christ. This is shown by much of the contents of the book. A large portion of the Acts is occupied by the discourses or sermons of various persons, the language and manner of which differ, and all of which will be found according to the persons by whom they were delivered, and the occasions on which they were spoken. It seems that most of these discourses are only the substance of what was actually delivered. They relate nevertheless fully to Jesus as the Christ,
the anointed Messiah.
This book unites the Gospels to the Epistles. It contains many particulars concerning the apostles Peter and Paul, and of the Christian church from the ascension of our Saviour to the arrival of St. Paul at Rome, a space of about thirty years.
St. Luke was the writer of this book; he was present at many of the events he relates, and attended Paul to Rome.
But the narrative does not afford a complete history of the church during the time to which it refers, nor even of St. Paul’s life. The object of the book has been considered to be, 1. To relate in what manner the gifts of the Holy Spirit were communicated on the day of Pentecost, and the miracles performed by the apostles, to confirm the truth of Christianity, as showing that Christ’s declarations were really fulfilled. 2. To prove the claim of the Gentiles to be admitted into the church of Christ. This is shown by much of the contents of the book. A large portion of the Acts is occupied by the discourses or sermons of various persons, the language and manner of which differ, and all of which will be found according to the persons by whom they were delivered, and the occasions on which they were spoken. It seems that most of these discourses are only the substance of what was actually delivered. They relate nevertheless fully to Jesus as the Christ,
the anointed Messiah.
Romans
The scope or design of the apostle in writing to the Romans appears to have been, to answer the unbelieving, and to teach the believing Jew; to confirm the Christian and to convert the idolatrous Gentile; and to show the Gentile convert as equal with the Jewish, in respect of his religious condition, and his rank in the Divine favour. These several designs
are brought into on view, by opposing or arguing with the infidel or unbelieving Jew, in favour of the Christian or believing Gentile. The way of a sinner’s acceptance with God, or justification in his sight, merely by grace, through faith in the righteousness of Christ, without distinction of nations, is plainly stated. This doctrine is cleared from the objections raised by Judaizing Christians, who were for making terms of acceptance with God by a mixture of the law and the gospel, and for shutting out the Gentiles from any share in the blessings of salvation brought in by the Messiah. In the conclusion, holiness is further enforced by practical exhortations.
The scope or design of the apostle in writing to the Romans appears to have been, to answer the unbelieving, and to teach the believing Jew; to confirm the Christian and to convert the idolatrous Gentile; and to show the Gentile convert as equal with the Jewish, in respect of his religious condition, and his rank in the Divine favour. These several designs
are brought into on view, by opposing or arguing with the infidel or unbelieving Jew, in favour of the Christian or believing Gentile. The way of a sinner’s acceptance with God, or justification in his sight, merely by grace, through faith in the righteousness of Christ, without distinction of nations, is plainly stated. This doctrine is cleared from the objections raised by Judaizing Christians, who were for making terms of acceptance with God by a mixture of the law and the gospel, and for shutting out the Gentiles from any share in the blessings of salvation brought in by the Messiah. In the conclusion, holiness is further enforced by practical exhortations.
1 Corinthians
The Corinthian church contained some Jews, but more Gentiles, and the apostle had to contend with the superstition
of the one, and the sinful conduct of the other. The peace of this church was disturbed by false teachers, who undermined the influence of the apostle. Two parties were the result; one contending earnestly for the Jewish ceremonies, the other indulging in excesses contrary to the gospel, to which they were especially led by the luxury and the sins which prevailed around them. This epistle was written to rebuke some disorderly conduct, of which the apostle had been apprized,
and to give advice as to some points whereon his judgment was requested by the Corinthians. Thus the scope was twofold. 1. To apply suitable remedies to the disorders and abuses which prevailed among them. 2. To give satisfactory answers on all the points upon which his advice had been desired. The address, and Christian mildness, yet firmness, with which the apostle writes, and goes on from general truths directly to oppose the errors and evil conduct of the Corinthians, is very remarkable. He states the truth and the will of God, as to various matters, with great force of argument and animation of style.
The Corinthian church contained some Jews, but more Gentiles, and the apostle had to contend with the superstition
of the one, and the sinful conduct of the other. The peace of this church was disturbed by false teachers, who undermined the influence of the apostle. Two parties were the result; one contending earnestly for the Jewish ceremonies, the other indulging in excesses contrary to the gospel, to which they were especially led by the luxury and the sins which prevailed around them. This epistle was written to rebuke some disorderly conduct, of which the apostle had been apprized,
and to give advice as to some points whereon his judgment was requested by the Corinthians. Thus the scope was twofold. 1. To apply suitable remedies to the disorders and abuses which prevailed among them. 2. To give satisfactory answers on all the points upon which his advice had been desired. The address, and Christian mildness, yet firmness, with which the apostle writes, and goes on from general truths directly to oppose the errors and evil conduct of the Corinthians, is very remarkable. He states the truth and the will of God, as to various matters, with great force of argument and animation of style.
2 Corinthians
The second epistle to the Corinthians probably was written about a year after the first. Its contents are closely connected with those of the former epistle. The manner in which the letter St. Paul formerly wrote had been received, is particularly noticed; this was such as to fill his heart with gratitude to God, who enabled him fully to discharge his duty towards them. Many had shown marks of repentance, and amended their conduct, but others still followed their false teachers; and as the apostle delayed his visit, from his unwillingness to treat them with severity, they charged him with levity and change of conduct. Also, with pride, vain-glory, and severity, and they spake of him with contempt. In this epistle we find the same ardent affection towards the disciples at Corinth, as in the former, the same zeal for the honour of the gospel, and the same boldness in giving Christian reproof. The first six chapters are chiefly practical: the rest have more reference to the state of the Corinthian church, but they contain many rules of general application.
The second epistle to the Corinthians probably was written about a year after the first. Its contents are closely connected with those of the former epistle. The manner in which the letter St. Paul formerly wrote had been received, is particularly noticed; this was such as to fill his heart with gratitude to God, who enabled him fully to discharge his duty towards them. Many had shown marks of repentance, and amended their conduct, but others still followed their false teachers; and as the apostle delayed his visit, from his unwillingness to treat them with severity, they charged him with levity and change of conduct. Also, with pride, vain-glory, and severity, and they spake of him with contempt. In this epistle we find the same ardent affection towards the disciples at Corinth, as in the former, the same zeal for the honour of the gospel, and the same boldness in giving Christian reproof. The first six chapters are chiefly practical: the rest have more reference to the state of the Corinthian church, but they contain many rules of general application.
Galations
The churches in Galatia were formed partly of converted Jews, and partly of Gentile converts, as was generally
the case. St. Paul asserts his apostolic character and the doctrines he taught, that he might confirm the Galatian churches in the faith of Christ, especially with respect to the important point of justification by faith alone. Thus the subject is mainly the same as that which is discussed in the epistle to the Romans, that is, justification by faith alone. In this epistle, however, attention is particularly directed to the point, that men are justified by faith without the works of the law of Moses. Of the importance of the doctrines prominently set forth in this epistle, Luther thus speaks: “We have to fear as the greatest and nearest danger, lest Satan take from us this doctrine of faith, and bring into the church again the doctrine of works and of men’s traditions. Wherefore it is very necessary that this doctrine be kept in continual practice and public exercise, both of reading and hearing. If this doctrine be lost, then is also the doctrine of truth, life and salvation, lost and gone.”
The churches in Galatia were formed partly of converted Jews, and partly of Gentile converts, as was generally
the case. St. Paul asserts his apostolic character and the doctrines he taught, that he might confirm the Galatian churches in the faith of Christ, especially with respect to the important point of justification by faith alone. Thus the subject is mainly the same as that which is discussed in the epistle to the Romans, that is, justification by faith alone. In this epistle, however, attention is particularly directed to the point, that men are justified by faith without the works of the law of Moses. Of the importance of the doctrines prominently set forth in this epistle, Luther thus speaks: “We have to fear as the greatest and nearest danger, lest Satan take from us this doctrine of faith, and bring into the church again the doctrine of works and of men’s traditions. Wherefore it is very necessary that this doctrine be kept in continual practice and public exercise, both of reading and hearing. If this doctrine be lost, then is also the doctrine of truth, life and salvation, lost and gone.”
Ephesians
This epistle was written when St. Paul was a prisoner at Rome. The design appears to be to strengthen the Ephesians in the faith of Christ, and to give exalted views of the love of God, and of the dignity and excellence of Christ, fortifying their minds against the scandal of the cross. He shows that they were saved by grace, and that however wretched they once were, they now had equal privileges with the Jews. He encourages them to persevere in their Christian calling, and urges them to walk in a manner becoming their profession, faithfully discharging the general and common duties of religion, and the special duties of particular relations.
This epistle was written when St. Paul was a prisoner at Rome. The design appears to be to strengthen the Ephesians in the faith of Christ, and to give exalted views of the love of God, and of the dignity and excellence of Christ, fortifying their minds against the scandal of the cross. He shows that they were saved by grace, and that however wretched they once were, they now had equal privileges with the Jews. He encourages them to persevere in their Christian calling, and urges them to walk in a manner becoming their profession, faithfully discharging the general and common duties of religion, and the special duties of particular relations.
Phillippians
The Philippians felt a very deep interest for the apostle. The scope of the epistle is to confirm them in the faith, to encourage them to walk as becomes the gospel of Christ, to caution them against judaizing teachers, and to express gratitude for their Christian bounty. This epistle is the only one, among those written by St. Paul, in which no censures are implied or expressed. Full commendation and confidence are in every part, and the Philippians are addressed with a peculiar affection, which every serious reader will perceive.
The Philippians felt a very deep interest for the apostle. The scope of the epistle is to confirm them in the faith, to encourage them to walk as becomes the gospel of Christ, to caution them against judaizing teachers, and to express gratitude for their Christian bounty. This epistle is the only one, among those written by St. Paul, in which no censures are implied or expressed. Full commendation and confidence are in every part, and the Philippians are addressed with a peculiar affection, which every serious reader will perceive.
Colossians
This epistle was sent because of some difficulties which arose among the Colossians, probably from false teachers, in consequence of which they sent to the apostle. The scope of the epistle is to show, that all hope of man’s redemption is founded on Christ, in whom alone are all complete fulness, perfections, and sufficiency. The Colossians are cautioned against the devices of judaizing teachers, and also against the notions of carnal wisdom, and human inventions and traditions, as not consistent with full reliance on Christ. In the first two chapters the apostle tells them what they must believe, and in the two last what they must do; the doctrine of faith, and the precepts of life for salvation.
This epistle was sent because of some difficulties which arose among the Colossians, probably from false teachers, in consequence of which they sent to the apostle. The scope of the epistle is to show, that all hope of man’s redemption is founded on Christ, in whom alone are all complete fulness, perfections, and sufficiency. The Colossians are cautioned against the devices of judaizing teachers, and also against the notions of carnal wisdom, and human inventions and traditions, as not consistent with full reliance on Christ. In the first two chapters the apostle tells them what they must believe, and in the two last what they must do; the doctrine of faith, and the precepts of life for salvation.
1 Thessalonians
This epistle is generally considered to have been the first of those written by St. Paul. The occasion seems to have been the good report of the stedfastness of the church at Thessalonica in the faith of the gospel. It is full of affection and confidence, and more consolatory and practical, and less doctrinal, than some of the other epistles.
This epistle is generally considered to have been the first of those written by St. Paul. The occasion seems to have been the good report of the stedfastness of the church at Thessalonica in the faith of the gospel. It is full of affection and confidence, and more consolatory and practical, and less doctrinal, than some of the other epistles.
2 Thessalonians
The second epistle to the Thessalonians was written soon after the first. The apostle was told that, from some expressions in his first letter, many expected the second coming of Christ was at hand, and that the day of judgment would arrive in their time. Some of these neglected their worldly duties. St. Paul wrote again to correct their error, which hindered the spread of the gospel. He had written agreeably to the words of the prophets of the Old Testament; and he tells them there were many counsels of the Most High yet to be fulfilled, before that day of the Lord should come, though, because it is sure, he had spoken of it as near. The subject led to a remarkable foretelling, of some of the future events which were to take place in the after-ages of the Christian church, and which show the prophetic spirit the apostle possessed.
The second epistle to the Thessalonians was written soon after the first. The apostle was told that, from some expressions in his first letter, many expected the second coming of Christ was at hand, and that the day of judgment would arrive in their time. Some of these neglected their worldly duties. St. Paul wrote again to correct their error, which hindered the spread of the gospel. He had written agreeably to the words of the prophets of the Old Testament; and he tells them there were many counsels of the Most High yet to be fulfilled, before that day of the Lord should come, though, because it is sure, he had spoken of it as near. The subject led to a remarkable foretelling, of some of the future events which were to take place in the after-ages of the Christian church, and which show the prophetic spirit the apostle possessed.
1 Timothy
The design of the epistle appears to be, that Timothy having been left at Ephesus, St. Paul wrote to instruct him in the choice of proper officers in the church, as well as in the exercise of a regular ministry. Also, to caution against the influence of false teachers, who by subtle distinctions and endless disputes, corrupted the purity and simplicity of the gospel. He presses upon him constant regard to the greatest diligence, faithfulness, and zeal. These subjects occupy the first four chapters; the fifth chapter instructs respecting particular classes; in the latter part, controversies and disputes are condemned, the love of money blamed, and the rich exhorted to good works.
The design of the epistle appears to be, that Timothy having been left at Ephesus, St. Paul wrote to instruct him in the choice of proper officers in the church, as well as in the exercise of a regular ministry. Also, to caution against the influence of false teachers, who by subtle distinctions and endless disputes, corrupted the purity and simplicity of the gospel. He presses upon him constant regard to the greatest diligence, faithfulness, and zeal. These subjects occupy the first four chapters; the fifth chapter instructs respecting particular classes; in the latter part, controversies and disputes are condemned, the love of money blamed, and the rich exhorted to good works.
2 Timothy
The first design of this epistle seems to have been, to apprize Timothy of what had occurred during the imprisonment of the apostle, and to request him to come to Rome. But being uncertain whether he should be suffered to live to see him, Paul gives a variety of advices and encouragements, for the faithful discharge of his ministerial duties. As this was a private epistle written to St. Paul’s most intimate friend, under the miseries of imprisonment, and in the near prospect of death, it shows the temper and character of the apostle, and contains convincing proofs that he sincerely believed the doctrines he preached.
The first design of this epistle seems to have been, to apprize Timothy of what had occurred during the imprisonment of the apostle, and to request him to come to Rome. But being uncertain whether he should be suffered to live to see him, Paul gives a variety of advices and encouragements, for the faithful discharge of his ministerial duties. As this was a private epistle written to St. Paul’s most intimate friend, under the miseries of imprisonment, and in the near prospect of death, it shows the temper and character of the apostle, and contains convincing proofs that he sincerely believed the doctrines he preached.
Titus
This epistle chiefly contains directions to Titus concerning the elders of the Church, and the manner in which he should give instruction; and the latter part tells him to urge obedience to magistrates, to enforce good works, avoid foolish questions, and shun heresies. The instructions the apostle gave are all plain and simple. The Christian religion was not formed to answer worldly or selfish views, but it is the wisdom of God and the power of God.
This epistle chiefly contains directions to Titus concerning the elders of the Church, and the manner in which he should give instruction; and the latter part tells him to urge obedience to magistrates, to enforce good works, avoid foolish questions, and shun heresies. The instructions the apostle gave are all plain and simple. The Christian religion was not formed to answer worldly or selfish views, but it is the wisdom of God and the power of God.
Philemon
Philemon was an inhabitant of Colosse, a person of some note and wealth, and a convert under the ministry of St. Paul. Onesimus was the slave of Philemon: having run away from his master, he went to Rome, where he was converted to the Christian faith, by the word as set forth by Paul, who kept him till his conduct proved the truth and sincerity of his conversion. He wished to repair the injury he had done to his master, but fearing the punishment his offence deserved might be inflicted, he entreated the apostle to write to Philemon. And St. Paul seems no where to reason more beautifully, or to entreat more forcibly, than in this epistle.
Philemon was an inhabitant of Colosse, a person of some note and wealth, and a convert under the ministry of St. Paul. Onesimus was the slave of Philemon: having run away from his master, he went to Rome, where he was converted to the Christian faith, by the word as set forth by Paul, who kept him till his conduct proved the truth and sincerity of his conversion. He wished to repair the injury he had done to his master, but fearing the punishment his offence deserved might be inflicted, he entreated the apostle to write to Philemon. And St. Paul seems no where to reason more beautifully, or to entreat more forcibly, than in this epistle.
Hebrews
This epistle shows Christ as the end, foundation, body, and truth of the figures of the law, which of themselves were no virtue for the soul. The great truth set forth in this epistle is that Jesus of Nazareth is the true God. The unconverted Jews used many arguments to draw their converted brethren from the Christian faith. They represented the law of Moses as superior
to the Christian dispensation, and spoke against every thing connected with the Saviour. The apostle, therefore, shows the superiority of Jesus of Nazareth, as the Son of God, and the benefits from his sufferings and death as the sacrifice for sin, so that the Christian religion is much more excellent and perfect than that of Moses. And the principal design seems to be, to bring the converted Hebrews forward in the knowledge of the gospel, and thus to establish them in the Christian faith, and
to prevent their turning from it, against which they are earnestly warned. But while it contains many things suitable to the Hebrews of early times, it also contains many which can never cease to interest the church of God; for the knowledge of Jesus Christ is the very marrow and kernel of all the Scriptures. The ceremonial law is full of Christ, and all the gospel is full of Christ; the blessed lines of both Testaments meet in Him; and how they both agree and sweetly unite in Jesus Christ, is the chief object of the epistle to the Hebrews to discover.
This epistle shows Christ as the end, foundation, body, and truth of the figures of the law, which of themselves were no virtue for the soul. The great truth set forth in this epistle is that Jesus of Nazareth is the true God. The unconverted Jews used many arguments to draw their converted brethren from the Christian faith. They represented the law of Moses as superior
to the Christian dispensation, and spoke against every thing connected with the Saviour. The apostle, therefore, shows the superiority of Jesus of Nazareth, as the Son of God, and the benefits from his sufferings and death as the sacrifice for sin, so that the Christian religion is much more excellent and perfect than that of Moses. And the principal design seems to be, to bring the converted Hebrews forward in the knowledge of the gospel, and thus to establish them in the Christian faith, and
to prevent their turning from it, against which they are earnestly warned. But while it contains many things suitable to the Hebrews of early times, it also contains many which can never cease to interest the church of God; for the knowledge of Jesus Christ is the very marrow and kernel of all the Scriptures. The ceremonial law is full of Christ, and all the gospel is full of Christ; the blessed lines of both Testaments meet in Him; and how they both agree and sweetly unite in Jesus Christ, is the chief object of the epistle to the Hebrews to discover.
James
This epistle of James is one of the most instructive writings in the New Testament. Being chiefly directed against particular errors at that time brought in among the Jewish Christians, it does not contain the same full doctrinal statements as the other epistles, but it presents an admirable summary of the practical duties of all believers.
The leading truths of Christianity are set forth throughout; and on attentive consideration, it will be found entirely to agree with St. Paul’s statements concerning grace and justification, while it abounds with earnest exhortations to the patience of hope and obedience of faith and love, interspersed with warnings, reproofs, and encouragements, according to the characters addressed. The truths laid down are very serious, and necessary to be maintained; and the rules for practice ought to be observed in all times. In Christ there are no dead and sapless branches, faith is not an idle grace; wherever it is, it brings forth fruit in works.
This epistle of James is one of the most instructive writings in the New Testament. Being chiefly directed against particular errors at that time brought in among the Jewish Christians, it does not contain the same full doctrinal statements as the other epistles, but it presents an admirable summary of the practical duties of all believers.
The leading truths of Christianity are set forth throughout; and on attentive consideration, it will be found entirely to agree with St. Paul’s statements concerning grace and justification, while it abounds with earnest exhortations to the patience of hope and obedience of faith and love, interspersed with warnings, reproofs, and encouragements, according to the characters addressed. The truths laid down are very serious, and necessary to be maintained; and the rules for practice ought to be observed in all times. In Christ there are no dead and sapless branches, faith is not an idle grace; wherever it is, it brings forth fruit in works.
1 Peter
The same great doctrines, as in St. Paul’s epistles, are here applied to same practical purposes. And this epistle is remarkable for the sweetness, gentleness, and humble love, with which it is written. It gives a short, and yet a very clear summary,
both of the consolations and the instructions needful for the encouragement and direction of a Christian in his journey to heaven, raising his thoughts and desires to that happiness, and strengthening him against all opposition in the way, both from corruption within, and temptations and afflictions without.
The same great doctrines, as in St. Paul’s epistles, are here applied to same practical purposes. And this epistle is remarkable for the sweetness, gentleness, and humble love, with which it is written. It gives a short, and yet a very clear summary,
both of the consolations and the instructions needful for the encouragement and direction of a Christian in his journey to heaven, raising his thoughts and desires to that happiness, and strengthening him against all opposition in the way, both from corruption within, and temptations and afflictions without.
2 Peter
This epistle clearly is connected with the former epistle of Peter. The apostle having stated the blessings to which God has called Christians, exhorts those who had received these precious gifts, to endeavour to improve in graces and virtues. They are urged to this from the wickedness of false teachers. They are guarded against impostors and scoffers, by disproving their false assertions, ch. 3:1–7, and by showing why the great day of Christ’s coming was delayed, with a description of its awful circumstances and consequences; and suitable exhortations to diligence and holiness are given.
This epistle clearly is connected with the former epistle of Peter. The apostle having stated the blessings to which God has called Christians, exhorts those who had received these precious gifts, to endeavour to improve in graces and virtues. They are urged to this from the wickedness of false teachers. They are guarded against impostors and scoffers, by disproving their false assertions, ch. 3:1–7, and by showing why the great day of Christ’s coming was delayed, with a description of its awful circumstances and consequences; and suitable exhortations to diligence and holiness are given.
1 John
This epistle is a discourse upon the principles of Christianity, in doctrine and practice. The design appears to be, to refute and guard against erroneous and unholy tenets, principles, and practices, especially such as would lower the Godhead of Christ, and the reality and power of his sufferings and death, as an atoning sacrifice; and against the assertion that believers being saved by grace, are not required to obey the commandments. This epistle also stirs up all who profess to know God, to have communion with him, and to believe in him, and that they walk in holiness, not in sin, showing that a mere outward profession is nothing, without the evidence of a holy life and conduct. It also helps forward and excites real Christians to communion with God and the Lord Jesus Christ, to constancy in the true faith, and to purity of life.
This epistle is a discourse upon the principles of Christianity, in doctrine and practice. The design appears to be, to refute and guard against erroneous and unholy tenets, principles, and practices, especially such as would lower the Godhead of Christ, and the reality and power of his sufferings and death, as an atoning sacrifice; and against the assertion that believers being saved by grace, are not required to obey the commandments. This epistle also stirs up all who profess to know God, to have communion with him, and to believe in him, and that they walk in holiness, not in sin, showing that a mere outward profession is nothing, without the evidence of a holy life and conduct. It also helps forward and excites real Christians to communion with God and the Lord Jesus Christ, to constancy in the true faith, and to purity of life.
2 John
This epistle is like an abridgement of the first; it touches, in few words, on the same points. The Lady Electa is commended for her virtuous and religious education of her children; is exhorted to abide in the doctrine of Christ, to persevere in the truth, and carefully to avoid the delusions of false teachers. But chiefly the apostle beseeches her to practise the great commandment of Christian love and charity.
This epistle is like an abridgement of the first; it touches, in few words, on the same points. The Lady Electa is commended for her virtuous and religious education of her children; is exhorted to abide in the doctrine of Christ, to persevere in the truth, and carefully to avoid the delusions of false teachers. But chiefly the apostle beseeches her to practise the great commandment of Christian love and charity.
3 John
This epistle is addressed to a converted Gentile. The scope is to commend his stedfastness in the faith, and his hospitality, especially to the ministers of Christ.
This epistle is addressed to a converted Gentile. The scope is to commend his stedfastness in the faith, and his hospitality, especially to the ministers of Christ.
Jude
This epistle is addressed to all believers in the gospel. Its design appears to be to guard believers against the false teachers who had begun to creep into the Christian church, and to scatter dangerous tenets, by attempting to lower all Christianity into a merely nominal belief and outward profession of the gospel. Having thus denied the obligations of personal holiness, they taught their disciples to live in sinful courses, at the same time flattering them with the hope of eternal life. The vile character of these seducers is shown, and their sentence is denounced, and the epistle concludes with warnings, admonitions, and counsels to believers.
This epistle is addressed to all believers in the gospel. Its design appears to be to guard believers against the false teachers who had begun to creep into the Christian church, and to scatter dangerous tenets, by attempting to lower all Christianity into a merely nominal belief and outward profession of the gospel. Having thus denied the obligations of personal holiness, they taught their disciples to live in sinful courses, at the same time flattering them with the hope of eternal life. The vile character of these seducers is shown, and their sentence is denounced, and the epistle concludes with warnings, admonitions, and counsels to believers.
Revelation
The Book of the Revelation of St. John consists of two principal divisions. 1. Relates to “the things which are,” that is, the then present state of the church, and contains the epistle of John to the seven churches, and his account of the appearance of the
Lord Jesus, and his direction to the apostle to write what he beheld, ch. 1:9–20. Also the addresses or epistles to seven churches of Asia. These, doubtless, had reference to the state of the respective churches, as they then existed, but contain excellent precepts and exhortations, commendations and reproofs, promises and threatenings, suitable to instruct the Christian church
at all times. 2. Contains a prophecy of “the things which shall be hereafter,” and describes the future state of the church, from the time when the apostle beheld the visions here recorded. It is intended for our spiritual improvement; to warn the careless sinner, point out the way of salvation to the awakened inquirer, build up the weak believer, comfort the afflicted and tempted Christian, and, we may especially add, to strengthen the martyr of Christ, under the cruel persecutions and sufferings inflicted by Satan and his followers.
The Book of the Revelation of St. John consists of two principal divisions. 1. Relates to “the things which are,” that is, the then present state of the church, and contains the epistle of John to the seven churches, and his account of the appearance of the
Lord Jesus, and his direction to the apostle to write what he beheld, ch. 1:9–20. Also the addresses or epistles to seven churches of Asia. These, doubtless, had reference to the state of the respective churches, as they then existed, but contain excellent precepts and exhortations, commendations and reproofs, promises and threatenings, suitable to instruct the Christian church
at all times. 2. Contains a prophecy of “the things which shall be hereafter,” and describes the future state of the church, from the time when the apostle beheld the visions here recorded. It is intended for our spiritual improvement; to warn the careless sinner, point out the way of salvation to the awakened inquirer, build up the weak believer, comfort the afflicted and tempted Christian, and, we may especially add, to strengthen the martyr of Christ, under the cruel persecutions and sufferings inflicted by Satan and his followers.
“I call on the Lord”Ps. 120:1–7.
At stated times during the year each Hebrew was called to turn in his heart, if not possible to return physically, to Jerusalem, to join the believing community in worship at the temple of the Lord.
This psalm pictures a person living among the ungodly, who realized afresh at this time of year that he was a man of peace, who lived among those who were for war.
How important for us to return to our roots, and with the community of faith look to and call on the Lord.
At stated times during the year each Hebrew was called to turn in his heart, if not possible to return physically, to Jerusalem, to join the believing community in worship at the temple of the Lord.
This psalm pictures a person living among the ungodly, who realized afresh at this time of year that he was a man of peace, who lived among those who were for war.
How important for us to return to our roots, and with the community of faith look to and call on the Lord.
The more we learn of the Lord, the more faith we can place in him. Learn to live by the facts of God's Word rather than your feelings.
Spend time in the Bible just observing, asking God to show you more of who He is.
There are many places where you could start.
Psalms 145, 146 and 147 are three wonderful chapters describing who God is.
In all of the Bible, ask God to teach you more of Himself and notice specifically how He wants you to trust Him.
In any given situation, ask God,
“What about You would be helpful for me to know, as I trust You in this situation?”
Go to the Bible and become a student of God and His relationship with you.
Spend time in the Bible just observing, asking God to show you more of who He is.
There are many places where you could start.
Psalms 145, 146 and 147 are three wonderful chapters describing who God is.
In all of the Bible, ask God to teach you more of Himself and notice specifically how He wants you to trust Him.
In any given situation, ask God,
“What about You would be helpful for me to know, as I trust You in this situation?”
Go to the Bible and become a student of God and His relationship with you.
Seek ye first the kingdom of God, and His righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.
" MATTHEW 6:33
Adversity is just a page in your life, NOT YOUR WHOLE BOOK.
Your adversity is hell's attempt to abort the next season of blessing God is scheduling for you.
God is aware of your need. Expect His miraculous rescue.
REMEMBER THE POWER OF PRAISE. PRAISE CREATES AN ATMOSPHERE FOR MIRACLES. ATMOSPHERE DETERMINES THE PRODUCT. It is easy to understand how you want to avoid confrontations...
but often it is a necessity.
CONFRONTATION MERELY MEANS TO SEE CLEARLY AND FACE DIRECTLY THE ESSENCE OF A PARTICULAR RELATIONSHIP.
Be willing to see others for who they are and what they are committed to... and when they are not committed to your ultimate good... this must be exposed.
There is an invisible cord Unking your heart to the Heart of God.
Whatever emotion you experience... is the same feeling God feels... good or bad.
When your actions bring pleasure to God, you create within yourself,
joy and enthusiasm(Isaiah 1:17,19).
EACH ACT OF OBEDIENCE THAT BRINGS YOU CLOSER TO THE GOALS AND DREAMS GOD HAS HELPED YOU TO ESTABLISH FOR YOUR LIFE, BRINGS PLEASURE TO GOD'S HEART.
Some people are only concerned about looking good... not doing good. Remember, God will prepare you for every confrontation in your life without worrying about negative consequences.
I believe you are moving into the next stage of God's blessing for your life. The Holy Spirit gives insight into your need... especially things that you are not aware of. BUT GOD IS WORKING IN SILENCE!
Your faith is being tried and put to the test, BUT IT IS BY FAITH YOU WILL MOVE ON TO THE RESPONSIBILITIES THAT ARE AHEAD. KEEP YOUR TRUST IN YOUR HEAVENLY FATHER WHO LOVES YOU.
He said, "I will never leave you nor forsake you." No matter how it seems now, God is not through. "All things work together for good to them that love the Lord"(Romans 8:28).
With the leading of The Holy Spirit I give you this "word of knowledge"
(I Corinthians 12:8) for your personal edification:
"Get used to the idea of having new people in your life... they will come through the working of The Spirit... and through the revelation of The Spirit which allows you to see in and through people and respond to them differently... drawing the good side of their nature toward you.
You have an ability to allow others to express themselves... some previous relationships will be rekindled."
Get your priorities straight and keep them there, for you can only do for others in proportion to what God is doing in your own life.
" MATTHEW 6:33
Adversity is just a page in your life, NOT YOUR WHOLE BOOK.
Your adversity is hell's attempt to abort the next season of blessing God is scheduling for you.
God is aware of your need. Expect His miraculous rescue.
REMEMBER THE POWER OF PRAISE. PRAISE CREATES AN ATMOSPHERE FOR MIRACLES. ATMOSPHERE DETERMINES THE PRODUCT. It is easy to understand how you want to avoid confrontations...
but often it is a necessity.
CONFRONTATION MERELY MEANS TO SEE CLEARLY AND FACE DIRECTLY THE ESSENCE OF A PARTICULAR RELATIONSHIP.
Be willing to see others for who they are and what they are committed to... and when they are not committed to your ultimate good... this must be exposed.
There is an invisible cord Unking your heart to the Heart of God.
Whatever emotion you experience... is the same feeling God feels... good or bad.
When your actions bring pleasure to God, you create within yourself,
joy and enthusiasm(Isaiah 1:17,19).
EACH ACT OF OBEDIENCE THAT BRINGS YOU CLOSER TO THE GOALS AND DREAMS GOD HAS HELPED YOU TO ESTABLISH FOR YOUR LIFE, BRINGS PLEASURE TO GOD'S HEART.
Some people are only concerned about looking good... not doing good. Remember, God will prepare you for every confrontation in your life without worrying about negative consequences.
I believe you are moving into the next stage of God's blessing for your life. The Holy Spirit gives insight into your need... especially things that you are not aware of. BUT GOD IS WORKING IN SILENCE!
Your faith is being tried and put to the test, BUT IT IS BY FAITH YOU WILL MOVE ON TO THE RESPONSIBILITIES THAT ARE AHEAD. KEEP YOUR TRUST IN YOUR HEAVENLY FATHER WHO LOVES YOU.
He said, "I will never leave you nor forsake you." No matter how it seems now, God is not through. "All things work together for good to them that love the Lord"(Romans 8:28).
With the leading of The Holy Spirit I give you this "word of knowledge"
(I Corinthians 12:8) for your personal edification:
"Get used to the idea of having new people in your life... they will come through the working of The Spirit... and through the revelation of The Spirit which allows you to see in and through people and respond to them differently... drawing the good side of their nature toward you.
You have an ability to allow others to express themselves... some previous relationships will be rekindled."
Get your priorities straight and keep them there, for you can only do for others in proportion to what God is doing in your own life.
A DREAM In your spirit, receive the revelation of this spiritual message to you.Allow the Holy Spirit to reveal the far-reaching importance of this message as you read.
It is possible for people to spend an entire lifetime struggling to bring about something that only God can do.
The Holy Spirit has incredible and infinite ways to strengthen you, enable you, teach you, and open doors for you that are humanly impossible.
"...WITH GOD ALL THINGS ARE POSSIBLE."
St. Matthew 19:26.
Living without God is linked to living without sufficient air to breathe - everything becomes a struggle. Recognize the power of the Word of God.
God said, "...HEAVEN AND EARTH SHALL PASS AWAY, BUT MY WORDS SHALL NOT PASS AWAY."
St. Matthew 24:35.
God connected you to this ministry. It was more than coincidence; it was planned by the Father.
The worth of any relationship, spiritual or otherwise, is measured by its contribution to the priorities you have established in your life.
God can work in our faith. The Bible says,
"...BELIEVE IN THE LORD YOUR GOD,
SO SHALL YE BE ESTABLISHED;
BELIEVE HIS PROPHETS, SO SHALL YE PROSPER
." II Chronicles 20:20.
YOU CAN CHANGE YOUR CIRCUMSTANCES.
YOU CAN HAVE YOUR DREAMS. BELIEVE GOD.
Remember that it was through a spiritual dream that God warned
Joseph and Mary the way to keep baby Jesus from being killed by
an evil king
( Matthew 2:13).
We are convinced that there are issues God wants to reveal to you...
It is possible for people to spend an entire lifetime struggling to bring about something that only God can do.
The Holy Spirit has incredible and infinite ways to strengthen you, enable you, teach you, and open doors for you that are humanly impossible.
"...WITH GOD ALL THINGS ARE POSSIBLE."
St. Matthew 19:26.
Living without God is linked to living without sufficient air to breathe - everything becomes a struggle. Recognize the power of the Word of God.
God said, "...HEAVEN AND EARTH SHALL PASS AWAY, BUT MY WORDS SHALL NOT PASS AWAY."
St. Matthew 24:35.
God connected you to this ministry. It was more than coincidence; it was planned by the Father.
The worth of any relationship, spiritual or otherwise, is measured by its contribution to the priorities you have established in your life.
God can work in our faith. The Bible says,
"...BELIEVE IN THE LORD YOUR GOD,
SO SHALL YE BE ESTABLISHED;
BELIEVE HIS PROPHETS, SO SHALL YE PROSPER
." II Chronicles 20:20.
YOU CAN CHANGE YOUR CIRCUMSTANCES.
YOU CAN HAVE YOUR DREAMS. BELIEVE GOD.
Remember that it was through a spiritual dream that God warned
Joseph and Mary the way to keep baby Jesus from being killed by
an evil king
( Matthew 2:13).
We are convinced that there are issues God wants to reveal to you...
THE HOLY SPIRIT
An extraordinary season of advantage is unfolding for you,
1. Your Heavenly Father sees your need. He knows where you hurt the most. He knows what has caused you pain and loss. It is time to move in faith on the Word of God instead of your feelings and emotions
(II Chronicles 20:20).
God is not through blessing you,.Tomorrow is not here. It can be incredibly different when you are moving in faith. the Holy Spirit is bearing witness that the angel of prosperity and increase will visit you. God desires to bless you, and He is more than capable of fulfilling the longing in your heart and the need in your pocketbook.
What God asks you to do may seem illogical, but with faith it is within your power to do it, and let your act of faith be a signal to God's messenger.
Follow the instruction of the Holy Spirit, and the door for a supernatural financial blessing can open on your behalf
(Romans 1 1 :33).
Do not wait for instructions that are agreeable with your human logic, , or you may not experience the completeness of what God wants you to have. Your relationship with the Father will only be complete when you trust Him fully.
God gave Joseph a dream, but then Joseph needed to trust that God-given dream and build upon it
(Genesis 37:5-1 1).
Joseph had to take action, use his talents and sow seeds to insure that the dream would come to pass.
When the Holy Spirit gives you an instruction you must move on that instruction to cause the reward system of God.
An extraordinary season of advantage is unfolding for you,
1. Your Heavenly Father sees your need. He knows where you hurt the most. He knows what has caused you pain and loss. It is time to move in faith on the Word of God instead of your feelings and emotions
(II Chronicles 20:20).
God is not through blessing you,.Tomorrow is not here. It can be incredibly different when you are moving in faith. the Holy Spirit is bearing witness that the angel of prosperity and increase will visit you. God desires to bless you, and He is more than capable of fulfilling the longing in your heart and the need in your pocketbook.
What God asks you to do may seem illogical, but with faith it is within your power to do it, and let your act of faith be a signal to God's messenger.
Follow the instruction of the Holy Spirit, and the door for a supernatural financial blessing can open on your behalf
(Romans 1 1 :33).
Do not wait for instructions that are agreeable with your human logic, , or you may not experience the completeness of what God wants you to have. Your relationship with the Father will only be complete when you trust Him fully.
God gave Joseph a dream, but then Joseph needed to trust that God-given dream and build upon it
(Genesis 37:5-1 1).
Joseph had to take action, use his talents and sow seeds to insure that the dream would come to pass.
When the Holy Spirit gives you an instruction you must move on that instruction to cause the reward system of God.
Before I minister to you in our Lord's holy name, ...even in these troubled times.
When any or all evil bad luck spirits Holy Ghost faith and oil, as a spiritual sign
(sign of Your cross and the number "7"), they will turn away and not cross this front door, and it will go on down the street and leave your house alone. As I plan to do the same thing to our church in which we are currently attending, by this act of faith.We rebuke all sadness and loneliness from the past.
We rebuke sin, sorrow, poverty, worry, fears, insecurity and uncertainty even in these troubled times, we expect these same blessings that You are about to release, dear Lord, upon our website and upon our home also.
You said, Lord,
"Blessed shalt thou be when thou comest in, and blessed shalt thou be when thou goest out."
Deuteronomy 28:6. You also said that, if we would prove You, You would open the windows of heaven
(Malachi 3:10).
Let this spirit be upon everyone who reads this bledded prayer as they follows these Holy Ghost instructions and anoints these two windows in her home.
Jesus, in the Holy Spirit, I am sensing that there is a heavy financial need there in my dear friend's home, and it is a very pressing financial situation.
Jesus, the scriptureMalachi 3:10, in Your Holy Word, is coming to my spirit.
I hear this promise from You, Lord, with my spiritual ear coming to me through the darkness of this early morning, telling me to exclaim to my friend, inBible faith: Prove me, prove me, "prove me now herewith, saith the Lord of hosts, [and] I will...open you the windows of heaven, and pour you friend, and a chosen few] out a blessing, that there shall not be room enough to receive it.
" Malachi 3:10. Lord, You also said, "...Remember the Lord thy God: for it is he that giveth thee power to get wealth..." Deuteronomy 8:18.
When any or all evil bad luck spirits Holy Ghost faith and oil, as a spiritual sign
(sign of Your cross and the number "7"), they will turn away and not cross this front door, and it will go on down the street and leave your house alone. As I plan to do the same thing to our church in which we are currently attending, by this act of faith.We rebuke all sadness and loneliness from the past.
We rebuke sin, sorrow, poverty, worry, fears, insecurity and uncertainty even in these troubled times, we expect these same blessings that You are about to release, dear Lord, upon our website and upon our home also.
You said, Lord,
"Blessed shalt thou be when thou comest in, and blessed shalt thou be when thou goest out."
Deuteronomy 28:6. You also said that, if we would prove You, You would open the windows of heaven
(Malachi 3:10).
Let this spirit be upon everyone who reads this bledded prayer as they follows these Holy Ghost instructions and anoints these two windows in her home.
Jesus, in the Holy Spirit, I am sensing that there is a heavy financial need there in my dear friend's home, and it is a very pressing financial situation.
Jesus, the scriptureMalachi 3:10, in Your Holy Word, is coming to my spirit.
I hear this promise from You, Lord, with my spiritual ear coming to me through the darkness of this early morning, telling me to exclaim to my friend, inBible faith: Prove me, prove me, "prove me now herewith, saith the Lord of hosts, [and] I will...open you the windows of heaven, and pour you friend, and a chosen few] out a blessing, that there shall not be room enough to receive it.
" Malachi 3:10. Lord, You also said, "...Remember the Lord thy God: for it is he that giveth thee power to get wealth..." Deuteronomy 8:18.
Your love gifts can help us change the
world by the ongoing development of
this Web site that reaches millions
globally. Bible Studies, Bible Stories,
Bible Devotionals, Bible Reading Plans.
world by the ongoing development of
this Web site that reaches millions
globally. Bible Studies, Bible Stories,
Bible Devotionals, Bible Reading Plans.
Knowing God What does it take to begin a relationship with God? Wait for lightning to strike? Devote yourself to unselfish religious deeds? Become a better person so that God will accept you? NONE of these. God has made it very clear in the Bible how we can know Him. This will explain how you can personally begin a relationship with God, right now... We all, like sheep, have gone astray, each of us has turned to his own way; and the LORD has laid on him the iniquity of us all."
(Isaiah 53:6) You might think that you chose to believe in Jesus,How did we get into this relationship with God?"For God so loved the world that he gave his only
Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life."
(Isaiah 53:6) You might think that you chose to believe in Jesus,How did we get into this relationship with God?"For God so loved the world that he gave his only
Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life."
This testimony website is a ministry for the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
The Vision:
Why We Are Unique:
We Offer a Website to develop
your own Ministry or home business
To encourage sinners
that Jesus Christ
can deliver you from any form of bondage
The Purpose: Testimony Ministry
The Vision:
Why We Are Unique:
We Offer a Website to develop
your own Ministry or home business
To encourage sinners
that Jesus Christ
can deliver you from any form of bondage
The Purpose: Testimony Ministry
