What are his commandments?

  • Christian Chat is a moderated online Christian community allowing Christians around the world to fellowship with each other in real time chat via webcam, voice, and text, with the Christian Chat app. You can also start or participate in a Bible-based discussion here in the Christian Chat Forums, where members can also share with each other their own videos, pictures, or favorite Christian music.

    If you are a Christian and need encouragement and fellowship, we're here for you! If you are not a Christian but interested in knowing more about Jesus our Lord, you're also welcome! Want to know what the Bible says, and how you can apply it to your life? Join us!

    To make new Christian friends now around the world, click here to join Christian Chat.

Webers.Home

Well-known member
May 28, 2018
5,897
1,084
113
Oregon

179» Eph 5:3a . . Among you; there must not be even a hint of sexual
immorality

"among you" indicates Paul's concern for a particular congregation, i.e. a
local church. Anyone familiar with the Jews' history in the Old Testament has
seen just how harmful immorality was for God's people.

* One of Chinese Communism's tactics when going about destabilizing a
country and bringing it under their influence is to corrupt its morals; which is
at least one of the reasons why they seek to undermine and/or eradicate
religions and ideologies that encourage piety.
_
 

Lafftur

Senior Member
Apr 18, 2017
6,896
3,636
113
Sorry if I misunderstood you. :)

It seemed like you were making the case that we can break God's commandments but be living in Christ. Most who say Christ fulfilled the law as a way of saying He kept it so we don't have to and I am glad to hear that is not the argument you're making.

There is no condemnation if we are keeping God's commandments- living by the Spirit John 14:15-18 Romans 8:1-8 and not by the flesh, those who live in the flesh (sin) is an enmity against God's law Romans 8:4-8 and if Christ is in us, we would be keeping His commandments through love and faith. 1 John 5:3 Romans 3:31

Thanks for clarifying.
True Believers in Christ (only God knows if a believer is a True Believer) are no longer under ANY condemnation because of the Works of Jesus Christ with His Blood and Body for Salvation. His Blood washes away all sin and His Body gives the true believer His Righteousness which is the human fulfillment of the Law necessary for salvation.

However, after receiving Jesus Christ as Savior, Lord and King, a true believer will experience sadness and sorrow if they choose to sin and will suffer consequences and even judgment for their sin but NO WRATH and NO CONDEMNATION from God.

God, with His Word and Holy Spirit, is in the process of restoring our souls which is a process. We are learning to walk by the Spirit (choose God’s Will), not the selfish flesh.
 

SabbathBlessing

Well-known member
Dec 13, 2023
1,663
309
83
True Believers in Christ (only God knows if a believer is a True Believer) are no longer under ANY condemnation because of the Works of Jesus Christ with His Blood and Body for Salvation. His Blood washes away all sin and His Body gives the true believer His Righteousness which is the human fulfillment of the Law necessary for salvation.

However, after receiving Jesus Christ as Savior, Lord and King, a true believer will experience sadness and sorrow if they choose to sin and suffer consequences and even judgment for their sin but NO WRATH and NO CONDEMNATION.

God, with His Word and Holy Spirit, is in the process of restoring our souls which is a process. We are learning to walk by the Spirit (choose God’s Will), not the selfish flesh.
So what is the purpose of the law and how do we know if we have Jesus in us?
 

Lafftur

Senior Member
Apr 18, 2017
6,896
3,636
113
So what is the purpose of the law and how do we know if we have Jesus in us?

The purpose of the Law is to show an unsaved person that they are a sinner and need the one and only Savior Jesus Christ because if the unsaved person rejects Jesus Christ then, they are condemned and will suffer God’s Wrath when He pours it out.

We know we have received Jesus Christ because He seals a new believer with the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit will bear witness in the new believer by giving them spiritual understanding and faith that they KNOW they are saved and belong to Jesus Christ.

A new believer will be baptized:

Water Baptism for their body
Holy Spirit Baptism for their spirit
Fire Baptism for their soul.
 

SabbathBlessing

Well-known member
Dec 13, 2023
1,663
309
83
The purpose of the Law is to show an unsaved person that they are a sinner and need the one and only Savior Jesus Christ because if the unsaved person rejects Jesus Christ then, they are condemned and will suffer God’s Wrath when He pours it out.

We know we have received Jesus Christ because He seals a new believer with the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit will bear witness in the new believer by giving them spiritual understanding and faith that they KNOW they are saved and belong to Jesus Christ.

A new believer will be baptized:

Water Baptism for their body
Holy Spirit Baptism for their spirit
Fire Baptism for their soul.
Thanks for the response. You make some good points, but I disagree with who the law is for. The law shows everyone their sins Romans 7:7 like a mirror James 1:22-24 Romans 3:20 and so we are not depending on our standard of righteousness but God’s. Psa 119:172. If we can’t see our sins than we cover them Pro 28:13 and therefore won’t prosper by going to Jesus to forgive and forsake them so we can receive His forgiveness, mercy grace and sanctification.

Scripture says the law is for the sinners and the unrighteous and scripture says everyone sins and is unrighteous so that means the law is for everyone. If one deems themselves righteous then they have no need for Jesus to work on their heart and lead them to His righteousness.

This is what scripture says how we know we have Christ in us.

1 John 3:4 Now by this we know that we know Him, if we keep His commandments. 4 He who says, “I know Him,” and does not keep His commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him. 5 But whoever keeps His word, truly the love of God is perfected in him. By this we know that we are in Him. 6 He who says he abides in Him ought himself also to walk just as He walked.

How did Jesus live? Did He keep the Commandments even though He is righteous? He did as He is the Way and led by example- our example to follow. 1 John 2:6 Heb 4:15 1 Peter 21:22

Paul also talks about if we are walking in His Spirit we are not living in flesh (sin) and those who are hostile to God’s law are the lost.

Romans 8:4 that the righteous requirement of the law might be fulfilled in us who do not walk according to the flesh but according to the Spirit. 5 For those who live according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh, but those who live according to the Spirit, the things of the Spirit. 6 For to be [b]carnally minded is death, but to be spiritually minded is life and peace. 7 Because the [c]carnal mind is enmity against God; for it is not subject to the law of God, nor indeed can be. 8 So then, those who are in the flesh cannot please God.

Our salvation is from sin Mat 1:21 and if Christ is in us we are keeping His commandments John 14:15-18 through love and faith. 1 John 5:3 Rom 3:31 Rev 14:12 which leads to reconciliation Rev 22:14
 

Lafftur

Senior Member
Apr 18, 2017
6,896
3,636
113
Thanks for the response. You make some good points, but I disagree with who the law is for. The law shows everyone their sins Romans 7:7 like a mirror James 1:22-24 Romans 3:20 and so we are not depending on our standard of righteousness but God’s. Psa 119:172. If we can’t see our sins than we cover them Pro 28:13 and therefore won’t prosper by going to Jesus to forgive and forsake them so we can receive His forgiveness, mercy grace and sanctification.

Scripture says the law is for the sinners and the unrighteous and scripture says everyone sins and is unrighteous so that means the law is for everyone. If one deems themselves righteous then they have no need for Jesus to work on their heart and lead them to His righteousness.

This is what scripture says how we know we have Christ in us.

1 John 3:4 Now by this we know that we know Him, if we keep His commandments. 4 He who says, “I know Him,” and does not keep His commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him. 5 But whoever keeps His word, truly the love of God is perfected in him. By this we know that we are in Him. 6 He who says he abides in Him ought himself also to walk just as He walked.

How did Jesus live? Did He keep the Commandments even though He is righteous? He did as He is the Way and led by example- our example to follow. 1 John 2:6 Heb 4:15 1 Peter 21:22

Paul also talks about if we are walking in His Spirit we are not living in flesh (sin) and those who are hostile to God’s law are the lost.

Romans 8:4 that the righteous requirement of the law might be fulfilled in us who do not walk according to the flesh but according to the Spirit. 5 For those who live according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh, but those who live according to the Spirit, the things of the Spirit. 6 For to be [b]carnally minded is death, but to be spiritually minded is life and peace. 7 Because the [c]carnal mind is enmity against God; for it is not subject to the law of God, nor indeed can be. 8 So then, those who are in the flesh cannot please God.

Our salvation is from sin Mat 1:21 and if Christ is in us we are keeping His commandments John 14:15-18 through love and faith. 1 John 5:3 Rom 3:31 Rev 14:12 which leads to reconciliation Rev 22:14
What you’re speaking of is when the true believer denies themself, takes up their cross and follows Jesus Christ.

This happens when we love Jesus Christ more than anyone or anything… suffering for righteousness… enduring persecution on the outside while our flesh is throwing a temper tantrum on the inside….yet, our soul and spirit is being led by the Word and Holy Spirit of God and is patiently quiet not listening to or moved by the persecutors or the flesh, instead our soul and spirit is unmovable unshakable steadfastly abiding in Christ… completely content.

There is a First Love that God desires MORE than “good works busyness”… abiding in Him… sitting at His feet. Mary chose better than Martha.
 

SabbathBlessing

Well-known member
Dec 13, 2023
1,663
309
83
What you’re speaking of is when the true believer denies themself, takes up their cross and follows Jesus Christ.

This happens when we love Jesus Christ more than anyone or anything… suffering for righteousness… enduring persecution on the outside while our flesh is throwing a temper tantrum on the inside….yet, our soul and spirit is being led by the Word and Holy Spirit of God and is patiently quiet not listening to or moved by the persecutors or the flesh, instead our soul and spirit is unmovable unshakable steadfastly abiding in Christ… completely content.

There is a First Love that God desires MORE than “good works busyness”… abiding in Him… sitting at His feet. Mary chose better than Martha.
Again, you make some good points, but I always like to go to by bible to define things and in this case what is love to God and how do we abide in Him.

Many people want God, but on their terms, we need to completely surrender and be doers of His Word James 1:22-24 and follow the example Jesus left for us. 1 John 2:6 Heb 4:15 Jesus never rebelled against the commandments or taught they were for "other people" He condemned those who kept their rules over the commandments of God quoting from the Ten Commandments and went so far as saying when doing this our hearts are far from Him- Mat 15:3-14 Mark 7:7-8 the opposite of the New Covenant God's law in our hearts Heb 8:10 which we should delight to do His will Psa 40:8 God's will for us is that we do not sin 1 John 2:1- which is breaking His commandments Rom 7:7 1 John 3:4 Sin separates us from God- Isa 59:9 Jesus came to reside in us and in doing so the commandments would be kept John 14:15-18 because He changes the heart through love and faith. Breaking the commandments is a good way we can test ourselves are we in the faith as someone with faith upholds the law Rom 3:31 and lives as Jesus did as He is our example.

Love to God
1 John 5:3 For this is the love of God, that we keep His commandments. And His commandments are not burdensome.
John 14:15 “If you love Me, keep My commandments.
Exodus 20:6 but showing mercy to thousands, to those who love Me and keep My commandments.

Abiding in Him
John 15:10 If you keep My commandments, you will abide in My love, just as I have kept My Father’s commandments and abide in His love.
1 John 2:3 Now by this we know that we know Him, if we keep His commandments. 4 He who says, “I know Him,” and does not keep His commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him. 5 But whoever keeps His word, truly the love of God is perfected in him. By this we know that we are in Him. 6 He who says he abides in Him ought himself also to walk just as He walked.

If Jesus is in us we would be keeping the commandments. John 14:15-18 If we slip and fall along the way we have an Advocate in Jesus who is faithful to forgive us when we confess 1 John 1:9 which means a change of heart and direction- When Jesus healed, He said and sin no more. Our salvation is from sin Mat 1:21 and through Him we can enter through the narrow path and be reconciled with Him Rev 22:14
 

Lafftur

Senior Member
Apr 18, 2017
6,896
3,636
113
Good works are good but not the most important.

A loving relationship with Jesus Christ is more important than a bunch of busy good works.

Knowing God, knowing His Love for me and others, reading the Bible God’s Word with the Holy Spirit giving understanding and hearing the Voice of my Father God, my Lord Jesus Christ and the precious Holy Spirit… these things are the most important.

I believe it is good for true believers to be doers of God’s Word but I also know obedience happens automatically by just simply being with God… in His Presence.
 

SabbathBlessing

Well-known member
Dec 13, 2023
1,663
309
83
Good works are good but not the most important.

A loving relationship with Jesus Christ is more important than a bunch of busy good works.

Knowing God, knowing His Love for me and others, reading the Bible God’s Word with the Holy Spirit giving understanding and hearing the Voice of my Father God, my Lord Jesus Christ and the precious Holy Spirit… these things are the most important.

I believe it is good for true believers to be doers of God’s Word but I also know obedience happens automatically by just simply being with God… in His Presence.
A loving relationship with Jesus produces good works. Shouldn't we want to follow how scripture tells us how to hear His voice, how to love Him, how to receive the Holy Spirit instead of following our own idea of it? God's Word is to be the light to our path Psa 119:105
 

Johann

Active member
Apr 12, 2022
928
212
43
The commandments are simple enough but they were unobtainable through the flesh and the Pharisees sought to fulfill the law through the flesh by applying their heavy handed external works onto Gods law. The commandments and in turn Gods law involves our hearts being transformed. As we transform we will keep the “spirit” of Gods laws not perfectly of course but ever increasingly till we finally become one in spirit and truth with Him when we are fully restored and revealed. Not perfection in this life but direction. The sermon gives examples of the progression of the Christians heart through transformation in our inmost being. As we progress in the faith outlined by the sermon we can begin to make sense of what the transformed heart does out of the overflow of Gods love.

“Jesus replied: “ ‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments.””
‭‭Matthew‬ ‭22‬:‭37‬-‭40‬ ‭NIV‬‬
Matthew 22:37-40 contains a pivotal statement about the essence of God's law and the foundation of Christian ethics. Here, Jesus summarizes the entirety of the Mosaic Law—the Torah—into two primary commandments:
To love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, and mind (Deuteronomy 6:5).
To love your neighbor as yourself (Leviticus 19:18).

This teaching highlights the fact that the purpose of the Law is not merely to establish rules and regulations, but to foster relationships built upon love and compassion. By focusing on these two commandments, Jesus reveals that the Law and the Prophets hinge on the principles of love for God and love for humanity.

When Jesus says that the whole Law and the Prophets depend on these two commandments, He implies that everything else flows out of these fundamental precepts. If we love God and love our neighbors, then we will naturally seek to honor and uphold the rest of God's laws and commands. Consequently, when people fail to prioritize love, they tend to struggle with fulfilling the broader requirements of the Law.

Overall, Jesus' words in Matthew 22:37-40 provide a concise yet profound summary of the core values that underpin Christian living. They serve as a reminder that our relationship with God and our interactions with others must be grounded in love and respect. As Christians, we aim to embody these commandments in our daily lives, seeking to reflect the character of God and bring healing and reconciliation to the world around us.

J.
 

Johann

Active member
Apr 12, 2022
928
212
43
Is Holy Spirit God to you?
Yes, the Holy Spirit is considered God according to the Bible. The Holy Spirit is referred to as the third Person of the Trinity alongside the Father and the Son (Jesus Christ)

. The Holy Spirit is portrayed as a person with emotions, intelligence, and will, capable of being grieved and glorifying God

. Additionally, the Holy Spirit is identified as the Spirit of God, indicating that He shares the divine nature of God.

J.
 

Johann

Active member
Apr 12, 2022
928
212
43
A loving relationship with Jesus produces good works. Shouldn't we want to follow how scripture tells us how to hear His voice, how to love Him, how to receive the Holy Spirit instead of following our own idea of it? God's Word is to be the light to our path Psa 119:105
Yes, a loving relationship with Jesus leads to good works. According to the Bible, faith that is alive and active manifests itself in good works (James 2:14-17). Jesus commanded His followers to love one another as proof of their love for Him (John 13:34-35). Furthermore, Paul stated that faith working through love is the only thing that counts (Galatians 5:6). Good works are not the basis for salvation, but they are a natural expression of a saving faith (Ephesians 2:8-10). Therefore, a faithful follower of Jesus will produce good works as a result of their love for God and others

A loving relationship with Jesus does not inherently guarantee that individuals will consistently hear the audible voice of God. Rather, the Bible suggests that God communicates primarily through the written Word, the Holy Spirit, and circumstances within the believer's life

. Believers are encouraged to discern God's voice through careful study of Scripture, prayer, and submission to the leadership of the Holy Spirit

J.
 

Webers.Home

Well-known member
May 28, 2018
5,897
1,084
113
Oregon
~
180» Eph 5:3b . . Among you; there must not be any kind of impurity, or of
greed

Impurities can be defined as contamination and/or pollutants. For example
water is impure when it contains fertilizers, fungicides, insecticides,
parasites, heavy metals like lead and cadmium, untreated sewage, and/or
radioactive fall-out from a nuclear accident.

It's tempting to zoom in on naughty fantasies and porn-like behavior as the
impurities that Paul is talking about; but any conduct unbecoming is an
impurity.

So then, maybe you're an usher in church; but are you dishonest? And
maybe you sing in the choir, but are you a malicious gossip? And maybe you
attend mid-week prayer meetings; but do you deny your children even
common courtesy and their fundamental human rights? And maybe you
teach Sunday school, but do you go over the speed limit, feed parking
meters, J-walk, and drift through stop signs? And maybe you even stand in
the pulpit; but do you have a drinking problem?

Webster's defines "greed" as avarice; which is an excessive, or insatiable,
desire for wealth or gain. Wanting money per se isn't sin. It's wanting
money simply for the sake of accumulating it that's bad.

Ben Franklin once said a penny saved, is a penny earned; but to greedy
people a penny saved is a penny stockpiled. Were you to ask a greedy
person to name the dollar figure and/or the amount of real estate that would
satisfy them, they would likely respond: "more"
_
 

Lafftur

Senior Member
Apr 18, 2017
6,896
3,636
113
A loving relationship with Jesus produces good works. Shouldn't we want to follow how scripture tells us how to hear His voice, how to love Him, how to receive the Holy Spirit instead of following our own idea of it? God's Word is to be the light to our path Psa 119:105
God has hidden Himself in plain sight… The Word of God is God yet, without the Holy Spirit giving the reader understanding of the scriptures, the reader will stay in darkness not knowing God.

Just because someone is quoting scripture doesn’t mean they know and love God and have a relationship with Him, even Satan quoted scripture.

Jesus Christ spoke in parables and at the end say, “whoever has an ear to hear what the Spirit is saying, let him hear.”

Jesus Christ had to breath on His disciples and say, “receive the Holy Spirit” to open their understanding of the scriptures.

Jesus Christ is The Truth but the Holy Spirit is the Revealer of The Truth… The Spirit of Truth.

Don’t seek all the do’s and don’ts of scripture, instead seek The Truth of scripture which only the Holy Spirit can give.

Knowing The Truth leads us into a relationship with God… communicating with God - all 3 God The Father, God The Son and God The Holy Spirit.

God loves us and wants a VERY personal relationship with each of us uniquely and individually.


 

Johann

Active member
Apr 12, 2022
928
212
43
Don’t seek all the do’s and don’ts of scripture, instead seek The Truth of scripture which only the Holy Spirit can give.
The Bible does not explicitly state that one should avoid seeking the do's and don'ts of Scripture in favor of seeking the Truth alone. Rather, the Bible calls for a balanced approach that includes both understanding the commands of Scripture and seeking the deeper truth behind them. Here are some relevant verses that address this balance:

John 8:32: "And you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free."

2 Timothy 3:16-17: "All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work."

Psalm 119:30: "I have chosen the way of faithfulness; I set your rules before me."

Colossians 2:8: "See to it that no one takes you captive by philosophy and empty deceit, according to human tradition, according to the elemental spirits of the world, and not according to Christ."
James 1:5: "If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him."

Seeking the Truth goes beyond merely memorizing do's and don'ts. It involves understanding the underlying principles and applying them to our lives. The Holy Spirit guides us into all truth (John 16:13) and empowers us to discern between truth and error (Ephesians 4:14). Therefore, seeking the Truth of Scripture is crucial for growth in our faith and for equipping us to serve God effectively.

At the same time, it is essential to remain grounded in the commands of Scripture, as they provide a solid foundation for our faith and a framework for living a holy life. A balanced approach that combines both seeking the Truth and understanding the commands of Scripture will enable us to grow in our faith and to live a life pleasing to God.

J.
 

Johann

Active member
Apr 12, 2022
928
212
43
God has hidden Himself in plain sight… The Word of God is God yet, without the Holy Spirit giving the reader understanding of the scriptures, the reader will stay in darkness not knowing God.

Just because someone is quoting scripture doesn’t mean they know and love God and have a relationship with Him, even Satan quoted scripture.

Jesus Christ spoke in parables and at the end say, “whoever has an ear to hear what the Spirit is saying, let him hear.”

Jesus Christ had to breath on His disciples and say, “receive the Holy Spirit” to open their understanding of the scriptures.

Jesus Christ is The Truth but the Holy Spirit is the Revealer of The Truth… The Spirit of Truth.

Don’t seek all the do’s and don’ts of scripture, instead seek The Truth of scripture which only the Holy Spirit can give.

Knowing The Truth leads us into a relationship with God… communicating with God - all 3 God The Father, God The Son and God The Holy Spirit.

God loves us and wants a VERY personal relationship with each of us uniquely and individually.

While I agree with what you have typed-try the Pauline epistles and count the number of Imperatives as written.
A real eye opener-the eyes of our understanding being enlightened in/by/through the indwelling presence of the Holy Spirit.
J.
 

SabbathBlessing

Well-known member
Dec 13, 2023
1,663
309
83
God has hidden Himself in plain sight… The Word of God is God yet, without the Holy Spirit giving the reader understanding of the scriptures, the reader will stay in darkness not knowing God.

Just because someone is quoting scripture doesn’t mean they know and love God and have a relationship with Him, even Satan quoted scripture.

Jesus Christ spoke in parables and at the end say, “whoever has an ear to hear what the Spirit is saying, let him hear.”

Jesus Christ had to breath on His disciples and say, “receive the Holy Spirit” to open their understanding of the scriptures.

Jesus Christ is The Truth but the Holy Spirit is the Revealer of The Truth… The Spirit of Truth.

Don’t seek all the do’s and don’ts of scripture, instead seek The Truth of scripture which only the Holy Spirit can give.

Knowing The Truth leads us into a relationship with God… communicating with God - all 3 God The Father, God The Son and God The Holy Spirit.

God loves us and wants a VERY personal relationship with each of us uniquely and individually.

Hi there,

You make some good points and I agree, just because one quotes scripture does not mean they have a relationship with Jesus, only Jesus knows.

Some of your post is contradictory though to receiving the Holy Spirit according to God's Word which is to be the light to our path Psa 119:105. Just thought I would show you so hopefully you can consider in prayer.

You say we need a relationship with Jesus (Amen!) but then say don't seek do's and don'ts instead seek the Truth.

This is what scripture says about that.

All of God's commandments are Truth Psa119:151

1 John 2:4 He who says, “I know Him,” and does not keep His commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him.

Jesus in His own Words said If we love Him keep His commandments then we receive His Spirit. What this means is we have to make the choice to submit to God- He doesn't force us and when we do He gives us His Spirit so we can keep His commandments. Keeping the commandments is an outside fruit that shows one has been changed by Jesus. Rev 14:12

John 14:15 If you love Me, keep My commandments. 16 And I will pray the Father, and He will give you another Helper, that He may abide with you forever— 17 the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it neither sees Him nor knows Him; but you know Him, for He dwells with you and will be in you. 18 I will not leave you orphans; I will come to you.

The Holy Spirit is given to those who obey Him

Acts 5:32 And we are His witnesses to these things, and so also is the Holy Spirit whom God has given to those who obey Him.”

We should want to have a relationship with Jesus, but being obedient to Him and His commandments is at the core of the relationship. Adam and Eve sinned (broke God's law) and it separated them from God. Breaking God's law (sinning) separates us from God Isa 59:2 because it shows we prefer our rules or selfishness over submitting fully to God.

So God's commandments are not just a set of do's or don'ts - God's law reflects His character and shows us His stand of righteous living Psa 119:172 which reconciles us.

Rev 22:14 Blessed are those who do His commandments, that they may have the right to the tree of life, and may enter through the gates into the city.

Compared to Rev 22:15

Anway, thanks for the chat. We don't have to agree, but I think these truth in scriptures is something we should all take to heart as all scripture is meant for our learning, understanding and correction.

God bless!
 

mailmandan

Senior Member
Apr 7, 2014
25,574
13,551
113
58
Hi there,

You make some good points and I agree, just because one quotes scripture does not mean they have a relationship with Jesus, only Jesus knows.

Some of your post is contradictory though to receiving the Holy Spirit according to God's Word which is to be the light to our path Psa 119:105. Just thought I would show you so hopefully you can consider in prayer.

You say we need a relationship with Jesus (Amen!) but then say don't seek do's and don'ts instead seek the Truth.

This is what scripture says about that.

All of God's commandments are Truth Psa119:151

1 John 2:4 He who says, “I know Him,” and does not keep His commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him.

Jesus in His own Words said If we love Him keep His commandments then we receive His Spirit. What this means is we have to make the choice to submit to God- He doesn't force us and when we do He gives us His Spirit so we can keep His commandments. Keeping the commandments is an outside fruit that shows one has been changed by Jesus. Rev 14:12

John 14:15 If you love Me, keep My commandments. 16 And I will pray the Father, and He will give you another Helper, that He may abide with you forever— 17 the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it neither sees Him nor knows Him; but you know Him, for He dwells with you and will be in you. 18 I will not leave you orphans; I will come to you.

The Holy Spirit is given to those who obey Him

Acts 5:32 And we are His witnesses to these things, and so also is the Holy Spirit whom God has given to those who obey Him.”

We should want to have a relationship with Jesus, but being obedient to Him and His commandments is at the core of the relationship. Adam and Eve sinned (broke God's law) and it separated them from God. Breaking God's law (sinning) separates us from God Isa 59:2 because it shows we prefer our rules or selfishness over submitting fully to God.

So God's commandments are not just a set of do's or don'ts - God's law reflects His character and shows us His stand of righteous living Psa 119:172 which reconciles us.

Rev 22:14 Blessed are those who do His commandments, that they may have the right to the tree of life, and may enter through the gates into the city.

Compared to Rev 22:15

Anway, thanks for the chat. We don't have to agree, but I think this truth in scriptures is something we should all take to heart as all scripture is meant for our learning, understanding and correction.

God bless!
More sugar-coated double talk which culminates in "salvation by grace plus law, faith plus works." If I took all of your posts since you joined Christian Chat and totaled the number of times you used the word "commandments" vs. the number of times you used the word "gospel" I'll bet the number of times you used the word commandments would far exceed the number of times you used the words gospel, which tells me everything that I need to know about you and what you are truly trusting in for salvation. Your faith is in your best efforts to obey the 10 commandments for salvation and is not exclusively in the death, burial and resurrection of Christ for salvation. (Romans 1:16; 1 Corinthians 15:1-4) My faith trusts 100% in Jesus Christ for salvation. Christ's finished work of redemption is sufficient and complete to save believers. (Romans 3:24-28) No supplements needed.

In regard to Acts 5:32, we receive the Holy Spirit when we believe the gospel. (Ephesians 1:13) That is the act of obedience that causes us to receive the Holy Spirit. Romans 10:16 - But they have not all obeyed the gospel. For Isaiah says, “Lord, who has believed our report?” Not to be confused with multiple acts of obedience/works which "follow" receiving the Holy Spirit.

I often hear those who believe they will be saved based on the merits of obeying the 10 commandments (usually SDA's) quote Revelation 22:14 quite a bit. I noticed in Revelation 22:14 that certain translations say, "do his commandments," yet numerous other translations say, "wash their robes," which symbolizes those who have been forgiven of their sins through the blood of the Lamb (Romans 3:24-26). Also see Revelation 7:14. Revelation 22:15 is descriptive of unbelievers.

In the eyes of God, the ONLY way we will be seen as flawless, without sin, having obeyed all of His commandments is through the imputed righteousness of God which is by faith. (Romans 4:5-6; 2 Corinthians 5:21; Philippians 3:9) The best we can do in regard to "keeping" His commandments is guard, observe, watch over His commandments for NT believers, in contrast with the old covenant of law.

1 John 2:3 - By this we know that we have come to know Him, (already know Him/already saved/demonstrative evidence) if we "keep" (Greek word "tereo" - guard, observe, watch over) His commandments. (This is descriptive of genuine believers) 4 The one who says, “I have come to know Him,” and does not "keep" (guard, observe, watch over) His commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him. (That is descriptive of unbelievers)

Strong's Greek: 5083. τηρέω (téreó) -- to watch over, to guard (biblehub.com)
 

SabbathBlessing

Well-known member
Dec 13, 2023
1,663
309
83
More sugar-coated double talk which culminates in "salvation by grace plus law, faith plus works." If I took all of your posts since you joined Christian Chat and totaled the number of times you used the word "commandments" vs. the number of times you used the word "gospel" I'll bet the number of times you used the word commandments would far exceed the number of times you used the words gospel, which tells me everything that I need to know about you and what you are truly trusting in for salvation. Your faith is in your best efforts to obey the 10 commandments for salvation and is not exclusively in the death, burial and resurrection of Christ for salvation. (Romans 1:16; 1 Corinthians 15:1-4) My faith trusts 100% in Jesus Christ for salvation. Christ's finished work of redemption is sufficient and complete to save believers. (Romans 3:24-28) No supplements needed.

In regard to Acts 5:32, we receive the Holy Spirit when we believe the gospel. (Ephesians 1:13) That is the act of obedience that causes us to receive the Holy Spirit. Romans 10:16 - But they have not all obeyed the gospel. For Isaiah says, “Lord, who has believed our report?” Not to be confused with multiple acts of obedience/works which "follow" receiving the Holy Spirit.

I often hear those who believe they will be saved based on the merits of obeying the 10 commandments (usually SDA's) quote Revelation 22:14 quite a bit. I noticed in Revelation 22:14 that certain translations say, "do his commandments," yet numerous other translations say, "wash their robes," which symbolizes those who have been forgiven of their sins through the blood of the Lamb (Romans 3:24-26). Also see Revelation 7:14. Revelation 22:15 is descriptive of unbelievers.

In the eyes of God, the ONLY way we will be seen as flawless, without sin, having obeyed all of His commandments is through the imputed righteousness of God which is by faith. (Romans 4:5-6; 2 Corinthians 5:21; Philippians 3:9) The best we can do in regard to "keeping" His commandments is guard, observe, watch over His commandments for NT believers, in contrast with the old covenant of law.

1 John 2:3 - By this we know that we have come to know Him, (already know Him/already saved/demonstrative evidence) if we "keep" (Greek word "tereo" - guard, observe, watch over) His commandments. (This is descriptive of genuine believers) 4 The one who says, “I have come to know Him,” and does not "keep" (guard, observe, watch over) His commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him. (That is descriptive of unbelievers)

Strong's Greek: 5083. τηρέω (téreó) -- to watch over, to guard (biblehub.com)
We have been through this before we are saved by grace through faith. Those with faith live differently than the lost. Paul points this out that the lost are hostile to God’s law and cannot subject themselves to it nor can they Rom 8:7-8, so we if we are arguing that we don’t have to keep God’s law, its really not a good sign.

Personally I like to believe the scriptures how they read instead of adding my own commentaries to them which changes the meaning. God’s Word doesn’t need our help, in fact we are warned about this very thing Pro 30:5-6 Pro 3:5-6

Washing our robes in Rev 22:14 is the same as keeping the commandments. It means we are without sin, sin is breaking God’s law Romans 7:7. We are not saved in our sins, thats the carnal mind Rom 8:7-8 1 John 2:4, Heb 10:26-30 Rev 22:15, we are saved from sin Mat 1:21. If Jesus resides in us we would be doing and keeping everything He asks through faith and love.

God said all of His commandments are Truth Psa 119:151 Many want to stay in darkness because they don’t want to come to God’s Truth and thats the condemnation John 3:18-30. It’s sad so many people argument against what God asks us to do if we love Him. John 14:15. He gave us everything and asks for so little. People want to depend on their own righteousness, not God’s Psa 119:172, only God can sanctify us Eze 20:12 we can’t sanctify ourselves.
 

mailmandan

Senior Member
Apr 7, 2014
25,574
13,551
113
58
We have been through this before we are saved by grace through faith. Those with faith live differently than the lost. Paul points this out that the lost are hostile to God’s law and cannot subject themselves to it nor can they, so we if we are arguing that we don;t have to keep God’s law, its really not a good sign.

Personally I like to believe the scriptures how they read instead of adding my own commentaries to them which changes the meaning. God’s Word doesn’t need our help, in fact we are warned about this very thing Pro 30:5-6 Pro 3:5-6

Washing our robes in Rev 22:14 is the same as keeping the commandments. It means we are without sin. We are not saved in our sins, thats the carnal mind Rom 8:7-8 1 John 2:4, Heb 10:26-30 Rev 22:15, we are saved from sin Mat 1:21. If Jesus resides in us we would be doing and keeping everything He asks through faith and love.
So what is the ONLY way we will be seen in the eyes of God as righteous and without sin? Through our best efforts to obey the commandments or through faith in Christ? (Romans 4:5-6; 2 Corinthians 5:21; Philippians 3:9)