Understanding the Bible – Reasons Why Non Christians Don’t Comprehend the Holy Scriptures

Note: This message uses the word “Scripture” and “Bible” interchangeably

Some time ago, my wife and I viewed a history network (TV) special on the “Exodus.” Without exception, all the miracles recorded in Scripture dealing with the Israelite exodus, were explained by some sort of “naturalistic” explanation. What, by and large, our culture fails to realize, is, that the God who created the universe, needs no natural phenomena to take place in order to exact (make) the type of changes in human history which He desires to make.

The same God who created the universe is the same Triune God who created human history. [Genesis1:f] He is, by definition “supernatural.” And, what He does, He does, supernaturally. God’s supernatural behavior and acts supersede the scientific. I prefer to reference “science,” not so much as truth, but reality. When it comes to the truth, Christians who believe in the Triune God look to Christ who claimed (and still claims) to be the Truth. For us, the truth is a no-brainer. The Scriptures tell us that in Christ, “are hid all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.” Colossians 2:3

Non Christians, fail to understand “paradox”

Scripture is replete with examples, which, to the unregenerate mind, are contradictory. One example keeps “cropping up” with unbelievers. They will unfairly charge God with not being true to His loving nature. They ask the question: “How can a loving God be a loving God that He claims to be and then send people to hell when they die?” Somehow, they overlook that the Bible has given the answer to that question. But, they have already dismissed the God-given gift of “free moral agency” (free moral will) granted to every human who has ever lived and who will live, upon this earth. Hence, people, end up rejecting God’s free “salvation” gift of the Savior Christ. They end up, in effect, rejecting God’s forgiveness for their sins against God and their fellowman, thereby (and, consequently) shutting themselves off from a God blest hereafter in holy heaven.

Sinful humanity will generally and continually view God’s Gift, the Bible, as contradictory because they don’t realize that there is such a reality as the “paradox.” A “paradox” is “a statement that seems contradictory, unbelievable, or absurd but that may actually be true in fact.” (Webster) To say that God is not a God of love, simply because He allows those who choose not to have anything to do with Him, to go to hell, is unreasonable, unfair and absurd.

God is, a “God of Love” – but, at the same time, He is a “God of Justice.” He gives the unbelieving soul their “free will” choice. He will not force the sinner and drag him into His Holy heaven! This is not contradictory. This reality is more of a paradox. God loves the sinner. But God will punish the sinner if he does not believe and repent. No contradiction here -- only for the unregenerate mind.

Understanding Biblical Interpretation

Scripture, itself, claims to be God’s Word. God is the ultimate author who utilized His specific chosen people, (the ancient Israelites and Roman subjugated Jews and Gentiles) to pen what He so desired, to convey upon scroll and parchment, His written revelation of Law and Gospel. 2 Peter 1:21 ; 2 Timothy 3:14-17

Scripture was written by various human authors, using a variety of literary styles – and, as such, must carefully be interpreted and understood “exegetically” in context. [Note: The Book of Psalms as compared to Proverbs] Scripture writings contain poetry, prose, history, prophecy, etc. And, they contain various literary “devices” such as hyperbole, figurative language and symbolism, etc.

Scripture, itself, claims to be without error, as the Triune God, by His holy nature, cannot lie. Psalm 12:6 ; Psalm 19:7 ; Psalm 119:144 ; John 17:17

Scripture is the primary “vehicle” (“means” of divine grace) to bring people to saving faith in Jesus Christ. Psalm 19:7 ; Psalm 119:144 ; Psalm 119:151-152 ; John 17:17 ; 2 Timothy 3:14-17 ; Romans 10:17 ; 1 Peter 1:22-23 ; James 1:21

Scripture does not claim to be a science or biology book. Many people and skeptics throughout history have derided the Bible because they have found what they “think,” are contradictions. However, upon the passage of time and continuing archaeological and scientific discoveries, they have been proven wrong and have been exposed for having presumed Scripture to be just like any other human book.

Principles of Biblical Interpretation

• Scripture's purpose is to reveal the Messiah, the Savior. Isaiah 53:1f ; 1 Corinthians 15:1:f ; 2 Timothy 3:14-17

• Scripture was [is] God’s revealed communication method to transmit what is necessary for sinful souls. It principally highlights the major (basic) problem of the human race and, the solution answer in the person of the (prophesied) Christ, whose life in the Christian New Testament Scriptures, fulfill the previous prophecy and also document the virgin birth, holy life, suffering, death and resurrection of the forgiveness of sins person of Jesus Christ. 1 Corinthians 15:3-4:1f

• Scripture must be understood as a historical document. Rules of normal interpretation apply. It was written to people (cultures) during a span of some 2000 years, - in their language. Hence, phrases, such as the “ends of the earth” are to be accepted as normal speech, - just as we (so-called) “modern” day people speak of the “sun rising” and “sun, setting.” Romans 15:4

• Scripture must be understood, as a whole. Although it is compiled of 66 books [Protestant designation] its message is central – Sin / Savior. John 3:14-21 ; 2 Timothy 3:14-17

• Scripture interprets itself. Example: The major prophecies of the Messiah Christ, as divinely documented in the Old Testament, and divinely fulfilled in the New Testament Scriptures. [Principal example: Hebrew prophecy Scripture, Isaiah 53:1f and the fulfillment of it as illustrated in the Christian New Testament 4 Gospels, beginning with Matthew 1:1f and ending with John 1:1f]

• Scripture is sometimes “paradoxical” but not contradictory. Examples: God’s Law and His Gospel; old and new testaments; sin and grace, etc.

• Scripture is the divine revelation of God’s Law and God’s Gospel. Either confusing God’s Law and Gospel or haphazardly mixing God’s Law with the Gospel, can diminish both the force and effect of the whole of preached and taught Scripture. [Example: Galatians 5:22-23 – denying salvation and heaven for the disobedient sinner. Confusing the sin with the ongoing lifestyle of sin, as expressed in Romans 1:16-31]

• Scripture must be (first) understood by its clearest passages. Other passages [verses, -- whether figurative, allegorical, or, whatever] then, are correctly interpreted in the light [on the basis] of the clear passages of Scripture. Matthew 25:1f and Revelation 20:1f

• Scripture must be understood as God "inspired" [authored] - See 2 Timothy 3:14-17 ; 2 Peter 1:21

• A person’s spiritual understanding must be “opened up” to grasp the divine revelation spiritual truths. 1 Corinthians 2:14 ; Luke 24:45

Note: The above principles of Biblical interpretation are just several. There are, of course, more, - too many to list for purposes of this topical message.

The major reason why a sinful soul cannot understand (comprehend) the Bible

Why can’t a sinner understand (comprehend) the Bible? The answer to that question is partially, in the question. The person is a sinner. Unless a sinner (and, we are all sinners), comes to the saving knowledge of Christ, His Savior, [“becomes saved” or, “is a believer] that sinner is without the necessary forgiveness of sins which is the absolute requirement for a hereafter heaven.

The Bible teaches that all people born sinners. [Psalm 51:5] “Sin” is an inherited spiritual disease. [Romans 5:12] In fact, it is the worst disease anyone can possess. Why? Because, it not only results in physical death [Genesis 2:17 ; Genesis 3:19] and spiritual blindness while the person is living, but brings eternal (hereafter) spiritual death. This spiritual death is not something which cannot be sensed or felt. It is a forever death of insurmountable proportions – never ending, in torment and agony. Luke 16:10-31 ; Matthew 25:31-46

The reason for the physical and forever spiritual (hellish) death is that the holy Triune God cannot allow into his heaven, any human soul which has been tainted and stained with sin. Sin is a transgression (act) against God’s Ten Commandments. Sin also encompasses “sins of omission,” such as failing to do good and love our neighbor when it was within our realm and capacity to do so.

When the our first parents (Adam and Eve) sinned in the beginning, that sin set off a chain reaction which resulted in the condition of “original sin.” [Psalm 51:5 ; Romans 5:12] But, we humans not only are born with sin, we willfully sin. We sin against God’s holiness and His commandments – and, against our neighbor by our wrongful actions (practice). Genesis 6:5-6,11 ; Genesis 8:21

What then will you do, - you who actually realize your sinfulness?

I love the one hymn lyric from the age-old hymn, “Rock of Ages:”

Not the labors of my hands can fulfill Thy Law’s demands.

Could my zeal no respite know, could my tears forever flow

All for sin could not atone; Thou must save, and Thou alone. - [TLH-1941-CPH]

Sinner – there is nothing you can do to gain God’s good favor, His forgiveness and His holy heaven

You can sadly attempt to manufacture some sorry. You can even adopt some type of 5 point formula and pray a “sinner’s prayer.” You can even attend church and walk to an altar. But, those actions without the Holy Spirit calling you to [genuine] faith will not make one (iota) of blest difference before God.

Nothing in my hand I bring, Simply to Thy cross I cling.

Naked, come to Thee for dress; helpless, look to Thee for grace.

Foul, I to the fountain fly, - wash me, Savior, or I die! - [TLH-1941-CPH]

Friends, it takes the God initiated faith to even admit your sinful condition. It takes God’s Holy Spirit working in you to convict you of your sin before him and for you to come to an utter realization of your sinfulness and helplessness. Your priceless soul desperately needs to realize that Christ was born for you; that He lived the perfect life that you could never live; that He suffered and died, as God's perfect sacrifice for your sins; and that He rose from the dead to evidence His victory over sin and its eternal death consequences which grip your priceless soul!

He did all that for you! God's just wrath and punishment for your sins was poured out on Christ for you. And, as a result, Christ's accomplish work absolves you before a holy God. Because of Christ, your heavenly attorney, your guilty plea is dismissed in God's Court of Law.

When you, in faith believe Christ; when you accept His sacrifice gift of forgiveness on your behalf, then He is truly yours for now and eternity. God will no longer damn you because of your sins, but, accept and receive you because of His only begotten Son, who lived and died in your stead.

But faith to believe all what God has done for you on your present and eternal behalf, isn't yours to glibly come by.

The Scripture says:

“……no man can say that Jesus is Lord, but by the Holy Spirit.” 1 Corinthians

12:3

Also, Christ as recorded in the Gospel of John, said:

"No man can come to me, except the Father which hath sent me draw him: and I will raise him up at the last day." John 6:44

Note: See also Titus 3:5 ; John 1:12,13

It takes saving faith to believe in Christ, the Savior. Since the Scripture relates the obvious that we can’t drum up that faith (in anyway, shape or form) on our own, we must rely upon the mercy and grace of God. But, the good news, is that God says that faith comes by His revelation gift, the Bible. [Romans 10:17] We are also told that those same Scriptures “make us wise to salvation, through faith in Christ Jesus.” 2 Timothy 3:14-17

May you, who are dead and dying in your sins [Ephesians 2:1-10] humbly put away from yourself all personal notions and biases that you have had, against God’s revelation book, the Bible. May you cast aside the skepticism of your learned past and eagerly search with child-like glee upon this wonder book which is God’s vehicle (through His Holy Spirit’s workings) to create saving faith within your needy and priceless soul!

Amen.

Alas, my God, my sins are great, my conscience doth upbraid me.

And now now I find that in my strait no man hath pow'r to aid me.

And fled I hence in my despair in some lone spot to hide me.

My griefs would still be with me there and peace still be denied me.

Lord, Thee I seek. I merit naught; yet pity and restore me.

Just God, be not, Thy wrath my lot. Thy Son hath suffered for me. - [TLH-1941-CPH]

Above Message and Related Scriptures [below] -- Intended to be utilized in a simple worship format:

Also: For a couple of other (more formal) worship formats:
The Order of Morning Service
The Order of Matins

Related Scriptures To the Above Message

Conversion - John 1:12-13 ; John 3:3 ; Matthew 16:17 ; Ephesians 2:8-10 ; James 1:18

Divine Mercy, Favor and Blessing - Romans 9:15-24 ; Matthew 20:1-16

Of Whom Does the Prophet Speak" -- by Victor Buksbazen -- Isaiah 53:1-12 -- an in-depth view of and the prophecy of Christ, hundred of years before his birth. Isaiah 53:1-12 underscores the truthfulness of Divine Revelation as exemplified in the Hebrew and Christian Scriptures.

Please note: Topical Messages, by subject

Pastor (emeritus) Nathan Bickel

http://www.thechristianmessage.org/

Please also note:

The "Words in Season" topical messages and related worship format are not intended to discourage or replace the Christian worship and assembly of Christians at their particular places of church worship. As this website's author, it is my prayer and hope, that many souls will find the topical messages, related worship format and other material, a useful and valuable Christian resource.

The Christian Faith: Parts 1-3

1 -- What is meant by “Believing” and / or, being, “Saved?”

2 -- How the saving (believing) process of the Christian Faith takes place
3 -- What are the tell-tale signs that a person has been “Saved” [is a Christian]

Trusting a Theory or Trusting the God of Human History

Whenever the topic of "evolution" comes up on an Internet forum -- invariably, there will be some comments by those who utilize the [illogical] argument [assertion] that "science," as explained by Darwinists or evolutionists, must be more credible from their perspective, because they [the "scientists"] deal with "science" and not the age-old Scriptures [the Bible].

For those of you who think in such a fashion, I challenge you to visit 2 premier creationist websites. I say, "premier" because in addition to respecting the Scriptures as the unique divine revelation that it claims itself to be [2 Timothy 3:14-17 ; 2 Peter 1:19-21] -- and the Triune God's masterful gift to humanity, they also believe in science. I say, "science" that can be verified -- not pseudo science, based upon theory and conjecture, (such as Darwinism or evolution), but science in the traditional [repeatable / verifiable] sense.

Following, [below] are the two creationist websites [linked below]. And, those who choose to check them out, will find that Scripture does not contradict genuine, science. I might add, that a common [illogical] human error is, to stamp something unreal or incorrect, because our human knowledge about any given subject, is always imperfect and incomplete. And, fallen [sinful] human nature is such, that it makes the mistake of calling something a "contradiction" when there only "appears" to be a (seeming) contradiction. The rational thought of something being paradoxical, is not, considered.

"Institute for Creation Research" -- icr.org

"Answers in Genesis" -- answersingenesis.org/

It all boils down to the element of faith. Would you rather believe in a Divine Being who relates in His revelation book, what He tells you is necessary for your present and forever welfare? Or, on the other hand, do you choose to allow your life to be guided by an unproven theory, which, basically, amounts to a lousy "crap shoot?"

Even if all the "evidence" and "proof" were available for unbelieving souls, to put their faith in a loving and just, Creator, Triune God, -- and, reject the theory of evolution for the reason for their existence, people will not be persuaded, against their sinful and willful persuasions. Such, was the case of the "wealthy" man in Christ's parable about "The Rich Man and Lazarus:"

........ And being in torments in Hades, he lifted up his eyes and saw Abraham afar off, and Lazarus in his bosom. “Then he cried and said, ‘Father Abraham, have mercy on me, and send Lazarus that he may dip the tip of his finger in water and cool my tongue; for I am tormented in this flame.’..........“Then he said, ‘I beg you therefore, father, that you would send him to my father’s house, for I have five brothers, that he may testify to them, lest they also come to this place of torment.’ Abraham said to him, ‘They have Moses and the prophets; let them hear them.’ And he said, ‘No, father Abraham; but if one goes to them from the dead, they will repent.’ But he said to him, ‘If they do not hear Moses and the prophets, neither will they be persuaded though one rise from the dead.’” Luke 16:29-31

Finally, for any Christians who think that they can embrace the theory of evolution as the basis for their existence, -- they had better think twice:

"'Evolution:' Rejected by Jesus Christ" -- thechristianmessage.org/

When people accept evolution as the reason for their existence, their spiritual senses are dulled. Evolutionary teaching negates the Biblical revelation of the reason for the Savior. In the very beginning, sin corrupted the then know human race, - and, since then. Scripture teaches that sin resulted not only in imperfect human beings, but the whole of nature. Hence, the first promise of the Savior (from human sin) as recorded in Genesis 3:15.

Evolution and its acceptance, cannot rescue sinful human souls who are destined for divine accountability, sentence and eternal punishment. Only through the sacrificial merits of Savior Jesus Christ, can human souls be set free to experience perfection beyond earthly compare in a God promised heaven to those who have received God's free gift of forgiveness, offered by the Savior, Christ. John 3:14-21 ; John 1:12-13

Amen.

Reasons Why Non Christians Can Never Understand the Holy Scriptures

5 Principles of Biblical Interpretation

• Scripture's purpose is to reveal the Messiah, the Savior

• Scripture must be understood, as a whole

• Scripture interprets Scripture - it interprets itself

• Scripture must be understood (first) by its clearest passages. Other passages [verses, -- whether figurative, allegorical, or, whatever] then, are correctly interpreted in the light [on the basis] of the clear passages of Scripture.

• Scripture must be understood as God "inspired" [authored] - See 2 Timothy 3:14-17

Note: An example of this aforementioned 4th principle, can be illustrated by Christ's clear teaching of the end of the world, in the Gospel of Matthew 25:1f and subsequent Scriptures, for instance, in the book of Revelation.

Above Message and Related Scriptures [below] -- Intended to be utilized in a simple worship format:

Also: For a couple of other (more formal) worship formats:
The Order of Morning Service
The Order of Matins

Related Scriptures To the Above Message

Romans 1:18-32 - The Triune God makes evident His creative work

Luke 16:19-31 - Christ's parable of "The Rich Man and Lazarus"

Of Whom Does the Prophet Speak" -- by Victor Buksbazen -- Isaiah 53:1-12 -- an in-depth view of and the prophecy of Christ, hundred of years before his birth. Isaiah 53:1-12 underscores the truthfulness of Divine Revelation as exemplified in the Hebrew and Christian Scriptures.

Please note: Topical Messages, by subject

Pastor (emeritus) Nathan Bickel

http://www.thechristianmessage.org/

Please also note:

The "Words in Season" topical messages and related worship format are not intended to discourage or replace the Christian worship and assembly of Christians at their particular places of church worship. As this website's author, it is my prayer and hope, that many souls will find the topical messages, related worship format and other material, a useful and valuable Christian resource.

The Christian Faith: Parts 1-3

1 -- What is meant by “Believing” and / or, being, “Saved?”

2 -- How the saving (believing) process of the Christian Faith takes place
3 -- What are the tell-tale signs that a person has been “Saved” [is a Christian]

What Does the Bible Say About the Poor?

The longer I read and study the Hebrew Old Testament and Christian Scriptures, the more I am convinced that government of all forms, which disregard the poor, (by negligently creating an environment for their poverty), will be cursed. But why, would this emeritus Christian pastor, make such a statement?

Throughout the Bible’s many compiled books, we are continually presented the Creator’s thoughts regarding the poor. “Poor” to the Creator, does not translate into what some United States' citizens, would term, as the “lazy welfare recipient.” The poor, as portrayed in Holy Scripture (apart from the “’spiritually’ poor,”) are those, who, for various reasons, are less financially well to do, and, who are often persecuted and taken advantage of, by those people, who often are in political power, and, who, are much more financially endowed. These same people (who are financially well to do) are often leaders in the culture, be it in business or government. It is their political influence which often creates an unhealthy economic environment, in which the poor suffer and become more monetarily strapped.

Now, please hear me carefully. I am not at all saying that free enterprise (capitalism) is to be discouraged by government policy. Christ's Parable of the Pounds," [Matthew 25:14-30] and Scripture throughout, illustrate that the Triune God expects his creation to be industrious. The very first command given to mankind was, "be fruitful and multiply and replenish the earth." Genesis 1:28

The book of Proverbs relates how the wise are to be like the common ground ant, hard-working and preparing for the future. Laziness, idleness and slothfulness are contrasted with diligence and productivity. Proverbs 6:6-11

Often, politicians will confuse and misconstrue the proper role of government in fostering a helpful environment where business, employment and the work ethic can flourish. This past week the (putative) "president" of the United States again spoke before thinking. His remarks illustrate government's unhealthy and destructive role, punishing the rich, and thereby (financially) hurting the poor. Using the National Prayer Breakfast as his political campaign platform, Barack Obama misinterpreted Holy Scripture.

Following, is what Christian pastor Michael Youseff correctly related concerning the (putative) "president's" remarks:

........Well, he did it again at the National Prayer Breakfast. I never understood that name since very little prayer, if any, takes place. Instead, perhaps it should be called the National Breakfast Gathering.

The president quoted the Bible to justify punishing those who have worked hard, and most of whom are very generous givers, in order to take their money and give it to many of his constituencies who are always standing outside the doors of the White House with out-stretched hands.

Mr. Obama, in justifying his misguided policy, quoted Jesus in Luke 12:48: 
“From everyone who has been given much, much will be demanded; and from the one who has been entrusted with much, much more will be asked.”

No, you do not have to have a seminary degree to know that Jesus is talking about individual stewardship in an individual’s relationship with God.

For it is God who gives each person different portions of gifts, talents, and treasure to manage according to His sovereign will. It is God who entrusts people with what they have, not the government.

God is the One who will judge the faithfulness of each individual’s stewardship and blessing, or lack thereof. In Luke 12:48, Jesus, God the Son, is exhorting individuals to be faithful and give generously without regret.

Understanding this, one has to wonder if Mr. Obama has replaced God with his administration. He must believe that when he says “much is given,” he refers to what is given by the government, and “much is demanded,” as that which is demanded by the government. This is 180° opposite to the truth.......

"President Obama and the Bible:" - michaelyoussef.com/

In my country

In my country, umpteen (political) city halls express in attitude, agenda and present practice, local resident taxpayer strangulation. Flowing from city hall politics, (elected and appointed politicians and special interest personalities), there is a steady stream of action which result with little regard, (or, with an open ear), for genuine input (feedback) from bread and butter taxpayers who fund these same local politicians’ livelihoods.

This type of local political oppression (multiplied hundreds of times over, throughout the United States) is severely felt and experienced in a number of ways – but especially among the less financially endowed – among whom are many senior citizens; the disabled; and those on fixed incomes – the (financially) poor. Added to this sad mix are unions who force their wills and fattened financial package agendas upon taxpayers because elected government representatives (politicians) are easily swayed by their powerful special interests. They easily overlook and often forget the rank-in-file overburdened taxpayers who voted them into political office.

Then, there are the various state governments, which add to the financial burden of rank-in-file taxpayers, among whom are the financially poor. Add, to state government overspending and tax strangulation is the federal (national) United State government with the ever increasing trillions of dollar debt, unrestrained entitlement programs, exorbitant wages, benefits and retirement pay for federal employees and politicians. That's not even counting the wasted monies which are spend on political pet projects (earmarks) and oodles of taxpayer monies spent attempting, to (needlessly) police the world.

Also, government, and club type (forceful) unions, often have the nasty habit of interfering with the God blessed work ethic by initiating excessive burdensome taxes and business / work regulations.

Please note: "Political Extortion"

Having stated the above, here (following) are some Scriptures regarding the poor and their “treatment.” Mind, you, these Biblical passages are not referring to those who deliberately make themselves financially poor when they gamble away their livelihoods and fritter away their financial resources through unhealthy sinful lifestyles and ignorant or willful poor decision making.

Scripture references the poor throughout its pages

With one of my Scriptural concordances, I was able to list close to 200 verses, with the one word, “poor,” common to all those verses. For the remainder of this Sunday’s topical message, my words will be fewer, as I will provide some of those Scriptures which speak about the poor – including God’s specific words of condemnation to those who oppress not only the poor, but the afflicted and needy.

God’s view on the oppression of the poor:

Deuteronomy 15:7 ; Deuteronomy 24:14 ; 2nd Samuel 12:1-15 ; Proverbs 28:27 ; Job 24:4 ; Job 24:14 ; Psalm 72:4 ; Ezekiel 16:49 ; Ezekiel 18:12 ; Ezekiel 18:17 ; Ezekiel 22:29 ; Daniel 4:27 ; Amos 2:6 ; Amos 4:1 ; Amos 5:11 ; Amos 5:12 ; Amos 8:4 ; Habakkuk 3:14 ; Zechariah 7:10 ; Luke 14:21 ; James 2:6

God’s descriptions of those people who oppress the poor

Psalm 37:14 ; Psalm 10:1f ; Proverbs 28:15 ; Proverbs 29:7 ; Isaiah 10:2

God's judgment of those who oppress the poor

Psalm 72:4 ; Proverbs 17:5 ; Proverbs 21:13 ; Proverbs 22:16 ; Proverbs 28:27 ; Isaiah 3:14 ; Amos 5:11

God's call to help the poor and needy

Proverbs 31:9 ; Isaiah 58:7; Mark 10:21; Luke 14:13 ; Luke 18:22 ; Galatians 2:10

God blesses those who regard the poor

Proverbs 28:27 ; Isaiah 58:10-11 ; Luke 18:22 ; Luke 19:1-10

God's deliverance of the poor, needy and afflicted

Psalm 14:6 ; Psalm 35:10 ; Psalm 72:12 ; Psalm 140:12 ; Isaiah 11:4 ; Isaiah 41:17 ; Jeremiah 20:13

How people treat the poor is a very good indicator of their spiritual condition

Based upon the following Scriptures, it is not difficult to judge a person’s spiritual character and status based upon how that particular person treats the poor. The Scripture calls those “wicked” who mistreat the poor. [Psalm 101f ; Psalm 37:14 and Proverbs 29:7] Just as a person’s treatment of animals is an indication of character, so is a person’s treatment of the poor, an accurate barometer of one’s true character. Proverbs 12:10

Creator God has higher standards for those in authority and those who are financially gifted. God expects more from whom He has blessed with much. Those well to do and those politically influential have God directed obligations to be fair and just. To do otherwise is to commit acts of thievery upon others. Please review the article: “Political Extortion”

The Lord Christ became "poor" that all might become spiritually rich

The Christian New Testament Epistle of 2 Corinthians 8:9 says this of Christ:

"For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though he was rich, yet for your sake he became poor, so that you by his poverty might become rich. " - 2 Corinthians 8:9 [ESV]

Creator Christ humbled Himself and was born into human history to accomplish the necessary sacrifice pleasing to God in order to lift God’s eternal judgment upon human sin. Only through this Savior and one true God, [Acts 4:10-12] can a person find genuine comfort and hope for the forgiveness of personal sin – including the oppression of the poor. Acts 3:18-21

May God grant faith and repentance [Luke 18:9-14] to politicians and various influential special interest personalities -- and, to all, who are guilty of the sin of oppressing the poor. [Isaiah55:6-8] May they be granted the grace to accept and receive Christ’s eternal forgiveness and to repent of their sins. [Luke 19:1-10] May this be the same reality also to all of us who hear and read this message. Acts 17:16-31

Amen.

Above Message and Related Scriptures [below] -- Intended to be utilized in a simple worship format:

Also: For a couple of other (more formal) worship formats:
The Order of Morning Service
The Order of Matins

Related Scriptures To the Above Message

Job 1:1f-2:1f - The physical and financial poverty of Job

2 Samuel 9:1-13 - King David's kindness to disabled, Mephibosheth

Being, bereft of a father or a husband, is a type of poverty:

James 1:27 - "Pure religion and undefiled before God and the Father is this, To visit the fatherless and widows in their affliction,and to keep himself unspotted from the world." [KJV]

Note, also: Acts 6:1

Of Whom Does the Prophet Speak" -- by Victor Buksbazen -- Isaiah 53:1-12 -- an in-depth view of and the prophecy of Christ, hundred of years before his birth. Isaiah 53:1-12 underscores the truthfulness of Divine Revelation as exemplified in the Hebrew and Christian Scriptures.

Please note: Topical Messages, by subject

Pastor (emeritus) Nathan Bickel

http://www.thechristianmessage.org/

Please also note:

The "Words in Season" topical messages and related worship format are not intended to discourage or replace the Christian worship and assembly of Christians at their particular places of church worship. As this website's author, it is my prayer and hope, that many souls will find the topical messages, related worship format and other material, a useful and valuable Christian resource.

The Christian Faith: Parts 1-3

1 -- What is meant by “Believing” and / or, being, “Saved?”

2 -- How the saving (believing) process of the Christian Faith takes place
3 -- What are the tell-tale signs that a person has been “Saved” [is a Christian]

God’s Temple, the Christian’s body

This message will obviously be uncomfortable to some – especially for Christians [or, so-called “Christians"] who have little (proper and priority) regard for the Triune God’s revelation Scriptures. This message concerns our very "bodies." And, I know that when it comes to talking about peoples' very bodies, some people become personally offended. However, I make no apologies. (If, you are offended, it is because you have personally taken [on] needless and illegitimate offense).

If I say some things and bluntly say them, and if I support what I say, by preaching and teaching the Scripture Bible faithfully; and if what I preach and teach is disturbing to you, then, it ought to disturb. And if you, the hearer are upset, then what you might be feeling is your conscience being stirred and / or bludgeoned by the influence force of God's "Hammer." [Jeremiah 23:29] I might also add, the Scripture, also claims of itself, to be a "two edged sword," "piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit and of the joints and marrow, and, is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart." Hebrews 4:12-13

Our present masquerading Christian culture

What constitutes an ignorant and fallen Christian? Regretfully, our present culture is anything but "Christian." And, I contend, that most of what is passed around as "Christian," is no more "Christian" than the proverbial "Man in the moon." In other words, what is "Christian" much of the time is only "masquerading Christian behavior" and spoken platitudes. It is quite genuinely different than the actual teachings of Jesus - His actual recorded Words in the Gospels and His Words elsewhere in the remainder of the Scriptures.

We are told in the Holy Scriptures, that in the "last days" there will be people acting wickedly and that they will have "the form of godliness," but in reality, they will be "denying its power." Moffatt's translation states: "for though they keep up a form of religion, they will have nothing to do with it as a force." The New English Bible translation well states: "They will be men who put pleasure in the place of God, men who preserve the outward form of religion, but are a standing denial of its reality." 2 Timothy 3:1-5

And the Scripture says that this will be the case with people in general. It does not say that this "form of religiosity" and the "denial of its reality" [its power; authority] will only take place in the lives of the ungodly:

"But know this, that in the last days perilous times will come: For men will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, unloving, unforgiving, slanderers, without self-control, brutal, despisers of good, traitors, headstrong, haughty, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God, having a form of godliness but denying its power. And from such people turn away!" II Timothy 3:1-5

"Having a form of godliness; preserving the outward form of religion, but, denying its power; denying its reality." That is the "Masquerade." That is the grand and glaring "Deception."

Charles and Camilla -- A public example of “Having a form of godliness,” yet, “Denying its power”

The news media widely reported about England's Prince Charles and his "for years" mistress, Camilla. According to the media, they had some civil marriage ceremony, and then afterwards, they received the Church's blessing from one of England's clergy.

Where did Charles and Camilla go wrong? Obviously, they went wrong when they both engaged in their own fornicating affairs with each other, which had been common knowledge for years. But then, they opted for a legalized marriage and sought to make something holy of which had been unholy. Where was the admission of any guilt on their part for their past fornication and adultery? Perhaps we had all missed that part in the news, but I think not. And then, Charles and Camilla were presented by the old mainstream liberal media, to be worldwide role models! Not that what they had been doing, for years, was anything new or innovative -- the cheating and the adultery. But I suppose Prince Charles and his former mistress, Camilla, exemplified the changing cultural drift of misplaced sinful attitudes and values.

Prince Charles and Camilla's actions, along with scores of couples throughout the world today, take the following route:

After having trashed traditional values, morality and marriage, by their continued lifestyle of fornicating [type of cohabiting] behavior, they then turn around and desire the blessing of the Christian Faith -- the Christian Church, by attempting to embrace the traditional values and vows of the Christian institution of marriage, they had thus, previously trashed!

The "Masquerade" - The "'Form' Of Godliness" II Timothy 3:1-5

So, with Charles and Camilla, we have a somewhat, recent example of taking upon themselves the "form of godliness" (religion) when in actuality they were "masquerading" and denying its "power (reality) of godliness!"

They could have exercised the "power (reality) of godliness" and confessed their past and present sins and rebellion against God and His Commandments. They could have, after true contrition and repentance [then] began to live their lives in accordance with "God's Program" of faith in Christ and "exercise" themselves "unto godliness." And then, God could have been a reality (a power) in their lives. But the huge problem (all along), being -- is that they had to do things their way! And they are now obviously continuing to do things their way and not God's way!

Christians fall into the same trap

Christians who fall into this same type of lifestyle trap, and if they continue in this type of lifestyle - doing things their way with their own bodies, rather than God's way, they will never rise to the level of realizing their true identity with (and in) Christ! In fact, they are, in reality, living their whole lives, desecrating God's Image and their own bodies, of which God calls, His "temple!" They are, in a very genuine spiritual sense, playing "Russian Roulette."

Focus

The New Testament Christian Scripture which I have based this topical message, speaks very directly concerning the individual Christian's physical body. It says:

"Do you not know that you are the temple of God and that the Spirit of God dwells in you? If anyone defiles the temple of God, God will destroy him. For the temple of God is holy, which temple you are." 1 Corinthians 3:16-17

The Christian’s Physical Body Belongs to God

Years ago there was a song popularized by Frank Sinatra: "I Did It My Way." Hell will be littered with the souls of the damned and they will screech out in agonizing forever torment, gnashing their teeth, regretting that they did things in their life upon earth, "their way."

It was against this pagan and vile immoral "backdrop," in which the First Corinthian Bible letter was written to the Corinthian Christians. The Corinthian assembly of Christians had many problems to be addressed - and that they were, with two Scriptural letters from the Apostle Paul. But the most challenging problem to the Corinthian body of Christian believers, was to keep themselves clean and clear from all the moral defilements that were part and parcel of the morally corrupt Roman Empire.

No “Right to privacy”

When the Lord says in His Scripture that our bodies are His temples, He means that we don't have a "right of privacy." God will not afford us that so-called and ill-conceived Supreme Court concept. We don't have a right to our own bodies - they belong to the Lord. They are His temples.

A military story

A friend of mine related to me some of his military experiences. One story was an incident that took place at the DMZ at the border of North and South Korea. A couple of drunken U.S. military soldiers wandered across the demilitarized zone and cut down, what was regarded to be a sacred North Korean tree. The two drunken soldiers never made their way back. They paid for their desecration and destruction of the sacred tree, by having their heads chopped off.

The self desecration and destruction of one’s body

The Lord says that the Christian's body is His temple and that if the Christian defiles it, the Christiaian will pay with dire and sorry consequences. The desecration of one's body isn't restricted to sexual immorality. It includes anything and everything that we may do to our own body that may hurt, harm or shorten its life. And the grave sin against the defilement of God's temple, a person's body, is that there is the added offense and crime of sinning against the First Commandment -- "Thou shall have no other gods before me!" [Exodus 20:1f] When we make ourselves and our own preferences, options, to take the place of God's Will and His Commandments in our lives and bodies, we are then sinning against the First Commandment and defiling His "body temple."

The 5th Commandment [Exodus 20:13] can also be sinned against in that we can set in motion the eventual "murder" of our own bodies with destructive behaviors such as overeating; drunkenness; smoking; and, an excessive reliance upon prescription drugs. Also, we can sin against God's temple, by not receiving enough exercise and securing enough sleep. Added to these self destructive [slow suicide, life shortening lifestyles] are also other ill-advised lifestyle behaviors.

The continued desecration and destruction of God's "body building" without contrition and repentance [godly sorrow; decision and change] -- and faith in the Lord Jesus, will lead the soul straight down the road to death [hell] everlasting. Galatians 5:19-21 ; Luke 18:9-14 ; Luke 19:1-10

This has been a very long message and I will say no more except to end with the reading of Hebrews, 13:4 and 1 Corinthians 6:12-20. The good, gracious, loving and just Lord can sum up, far better and beyond, some of the divine revelation reality truths that I have attempted to relate to you:

"Marriage is honorable among all, and the bed undefiled; but fornicators and adulterers God will judge." Hebrews 13:4

All things are lawful for me, but all things are not helpful. All things are lawful for me, but I will not be brought under the power of any. Foods for the stomach and the stomach for foods, but God will destroy both it and them. Now the body is not for sexual immorality but for the Lord, and the Lord for the body. And God both raised up the Lord and will also raise us up by His power. Do you not know that your bodies are members of Christ? Shall I then take the members of Christ and make them members of a harlot? Certainly not! Or do you not know that he who is joined to a harlot is one body with her? For the "two," He says shall become one flesh." But he who is joined to the Lord is one spirit with Him. Flee sexual immorality. Every sin that a man does is outside the body, but he who commits sexual immorality sins against his own body. Or, do you not know, that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have from God, and you are not your own? For you were bought at a price; therefore glorify God in your body and in your spirit, which are God's. 1 Corinthians 6:12-20

Please note some of the following Gospel Scriptures [below] as their is forgiveness and reconciliation with God for having desecrated his body temple.

Amen.

Above Message and Related Scriptures [below] -- Intended to be utilized in a simpleworship format:

Also: For a couple of other (more formal) worship formats:
The Order of Morning Service
The Order of Matins

Related Scriptures To the Above Message

Old Testament:

Psalm 51:1f -- A Psalm of forgiveness and cleansing

Isaiah 64:1-9 -- The humble soul will recognize the Triune God as father and master potter maker

New Testament:

Luke 15:1-10 -- Heaven has much joy over one sinner's repentance

Luke 15:11-32 -- Christ's Parable of the Prodigal [Lost] Son

Luke 18:9-14 -- God has mercy upon the soul that confesses his sin

Luke 19:1-10 -- The appropriate corresponding response of a sinner who sought Christ

2 Corinthians 4:1f -- The grateful and spiritually alive Christian will recognize his person and body as being a humble "earthen vessel" of which the Lord uses for His Glory.

Please note: The Following Scriptures are clear instructions for Christians on dealing [living] with sin within the "Christian 'camp:'"

1 Corinthians 5:9-10 -- "The Corinthians mistook Paul's letter to mean that, on separating from sin, they should disassociate themselves from all immoral persons, including non-Christian people. Instead, Paul meant that they should separate from immoral persons in the church who claimed to be Christian brothers." 1 Corinthians 5:10-11

1 Corinthians 5:11 -- "With such a one do not even eat......"

"Calling oneself a Christian while continuing to live an immoral life is reprehensible and degrading, and gives a false testimony to Christ. If the true Christian has intimate association with someone who does this, the non-Christian world may assume that the church approves such immoral, ungodly living and thus the name of Christ would be dishonored. Questions could arise concerning the true character of the Christians own testimony." Romans 16:17-18 ; 2 Thessalonians 3:6 ; 2 Thessalonians 3:14-15

Also note: Matthew 10:37 and Luke 14:26 -- "'hate' his father".....a vivid hyperbole meaning that one must love Jesus even more than his immediate family Malachi 1:2-3

[Above 1st Corinthian and Gospel Scripture notes, quoted from the 1984 c. NIV Study Bible]

Finally -- The Holy Scriptures are replete with examples of what God regards as sin and what He has done in the past to keep his people free from sin's contaminations. A few [among many] Scriptures are: Exodus 32 ; Joshua 7 ; Numbers 12:1f

Of Whom Does the Prophet Speak" -- by Victor Buksbazen -- Isaiah 53:1-12 -- an in-depth view of and the prophecy of Christ, hundred of years before his birth. Isaiah 53:1-12 underscores the truthfulness of Divine Revelation as exemplified in the Hebrew and Christian Scriptures.

Please note: Topical Messages, by subject

Pastor (emeritus) Nathan Bickel

http://www.thechristianmessage.org/

Please also note:

The "Words in Season" topical messages and related worship format are not intended to discourage or replace the Christian worship and assembly of Christians at their particular places of church worship. As this website's author, it is my prayer and hope, that many souls will find the topical messages, related worship format and other material, a useful and valuable Christian resource.

The Christian Faith: Parts 1-3

1 -- What is meant by “Believing” and / or, being, “Saved?”

2 -- How the saving (believing) process of the Christian Faith takes place
3 -- What are the tell-tale signs that a person has been “Saved” [is a Christian]

Note: This edited message was previously posted online by Pastor emeritus Nathan Bickel