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I BELIEVE or I TRUST I BELIEVE

John 3:16

I BELIEVE OR I TRUST THAT I BELIEVE

Paper by: Ralph Thoren

Dated: January 27, 2022

In a recent bible study session, one of our brothers (whom I admire so much for his faith and works toward and for our Lord) stated.  “ I have an acquaintance who often spends time at the bar, doesn’t go to Church, isn’t active in evangelism, but states that he is a believer.”  My acquaintance says “I believe in Jesus” 

My bible study classmate went on to quote John 3:16“For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him may not perish but may have eternal life.”    My classmate then stated “that’s it, simple as that.”   Was he saying, this believer has earned his place in eternity?  I was thinking, maybe he has and maybe he hasn’t.  My main question was .   Do many professing Christians feel this way?  “Simple as that.”   Everyone knows this verse well as it has been highlighted by many of the protestant religions over the years.   My wife who has memory problems with most things, remembers this verse perfectly as the rural Lutheran church where she attended taught all the children this verse to memory.   If you go into any Christian book store, you will find knick knacks with the verse written on it.  I looked it up on Google and here is what they had to say:

John 3:16 KJV – For God so loved the world, that he – Bible …https://www.biblegateway.com › passage › search=John…

For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. Read full chapter. 

Please note:  Read the last three words.  Read full chapter.   As much as I wonder about Google, it’s possible that they got it right.   This verse (John 3:16) was included in a discussion between a pharisee (Nicodemus) and Yeshua (Jesus).   To take this verse out of context would be an injustice to the total meaning and value of the verse.  This is one of the most beautiful and meaningful quotations of Jesus (Yeshua) in the bible.  Let’s study and meditate in this a bit in an attempt to understand what he is saying.       

     Nicodemus visits Jesus

John chapter 3 starts by telling us about a pharisee (a man of religious prominence) who came to Jesus by night (appears he did not want other prominent religious folks to know about his visit).    Apparently, he was a man who studied God as he stated to Jesus “Rabbi, we know that you are a teacher who has come from God; for no one can do these signs that you do apart from the presence of God”  The Holy Bible: New Revised Standard Version (Jn 3:2). (1989). Thomas Nelson Publishers.

This is interesting: even though the statement from Nicodemus does not end in a question mark, the next verse states: Jesus answered him, “Very truly, I tell you, no one can see the kingdom of God without being born from above.”

The Holy Bible: New Revised Standard Version (Jn 3:2–3). (1989). Thomas Nelson Publishers.

This lays the groundwork for this chapter.  Jesus has a curious possible believer with questions, now he has even more questions, see what Nicodemus says, “How can anyone be born after having grown old? Can one enter a second time into the mother’s womb and be born?”

The Holy Bible: New Revised Standard Version (Jn 3:4). (1989). Thomas Nelson Publishers.

It’s fairly obvious here, Nicodemus is stunned, curious beyond his normal belief standard.  There is something new here and Nicodemus wants answers.  So:

Jesus answered, “Very truly, I tell you, no one can enter the kingdom of God without being born of water and Spirit. What is born of the flesh is flesh, and what is born of the Spirit is spirit. Do not be astonished that I said to you, ‘You must be born from above.’ The wind blows where it chooses, and you hear the sound of it, but you do not know where it comes from or where it goes. So, it is with everyone who is born of the Spirit.”

The Holy Bible: New Revised Standard Version (Jn 3:5–8). (1989). Thomas Nelson Publishers.

Wow!!  Nicodemus is stunned.   Listen carefully as you hear this next statement of what Nicodemus says and how it applies to the rest of the Chapter.

Nicodemus said to him, “How can these things be?”

The Holy Bible: New Revised Standard Version (Jn 3:9). (1989). Thomas Nelson Publishers.

Ok, now we have a religious leader of prominence who wants answers.  Nicodemus like all of us is interested in this mystery of being reborn and the mystery of spirit.  Nicodemus is a religious teacher of the highest caliber, yet he is being educated.  Let’s go on and see how Yeshua answers him:

Jesus answered him, “Are you a teacher of Israel, and yet you do not understand these things?

“Very truly, I tell you, we speak of what we know and testify to what we have seen; yet you do not receive our testimony. If I have told you about earthly things and you do not believe, how can you believe if I tell you about heavenly things? No one has ascended into heaven except the one who descended from heaven, the Son of Man. And just as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, so must the Son of Man be lifted up, that whoever believes in him may have eternal life.”

The Holy Bible: New Revised Standard Version (Jn 3:10–15). (1989). Thomas Nelson Publishers.

And Jesus went on to say in answer to Nicodemus’s questions of re-birth and spirit:

“For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him may not perish but may have eternal life.

Let’s say that again so were sure we understand.

And Jesus went on to say, in answer to Nicodemus’s questions of re-birth and spirit:

“For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him may not perish but may have eternal life.

Nicodemus has answers if he heard them.  It is clear that no one can enter the Kingdom of God unless they are reborn in spirit.  It is also clear that belief in Jesus (Yeshua) is the path to re-birth and the blessing of the Holy Spirit.

Let’s jump ahead to a meeting between Jesus and his disciples after the resurrection:

 John 14:15-31

New International Version

Jesus Promises the Holy Spirit

15 “If you love me, keep my commands. 16 And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another advocate to help you and be with you forever— 17 the Spirit of truth. The world cannot accept him, because it neither sees him nor knows him. But you know him, for he lives with you and will be[a] in you.”

Yeshua willingly went to the cross so that we could receive this gift on the path to salvation.

At this point in chapter 3, Jesus has answered Nicodemus’s question of “How can these things be?” but let’s continue with what our Lord also said in the rest of the talk with Nicodemus.

“Indeed, God did not send the Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him. Those who believe in him are not condemned; but those who do not believe are condemned already, because they have not believed in the name of the only Son of God. And this is the judgment, that the light has come into the world, and people loved darkness rather than light because their deeds were evil. For all who do evil hate the light and do not come to the light, so that their deeds may not be exposed. But those who do what is true come to the light, so that it may be clearly seen that their deeds have been done in God.”

The Holy Bible: New Revised Standard Version (Jn 3:17–21). (1989). Thomas Nelson Publishers.

      I believe or I superficially believe:

At this point it’s clear that if we believe in Jesus Christ, that is:  his life, death and resurrection.  Meaning, he is alive today! And we believe that, we have been reborn and received the gift of the Holy Spirit and we are on the path to eternal salvation and have already started a new life.  This is the most important decision of our very short biological life.  Let’s get it right.

Jesus and superficial belief:

Let’s look at what John said about believers that had seen him produce miracle’s:

When he was in Jerusalem during the Passover festival, many believed in his name because they saw the signs that he was doing. But Jesus on his part would not entrust himself to them, because he knew all people and needed no one to testify about anyone; for he himself knew what was in everyone.

The Holy Bible: New Revised Standard Version (Jn 2:23–25). (1989). Thomas Nelson Publishers.

     Would not entrust himself to them??  What does that mean.  When you Google it up, there are many possibilities yet most of them have to do with confidence of the person to whom you would entrust.  The example I choose was: put (something) into someone’s care or protection.

“You persuade people to entrust their savings to you”

Perhaps a shallow (superficial) believer cannot be trusted by Yeshua to do his part in the mission.      Or another way to look at it.  If you have been entrusted by Jesus, wow what a blessing. 

There is also the parable of the Sower: 

“Listen! A sower went out to sow. And as he sowed, some seeds fell on the path, and the birds came and ate them up. Other seeds fell on rocky ground, where they did not have much soil, and they sprang up quickly, since they had no depth of soil. But when the sun rose, they were scorched; and since they had no root, they withered away. Other seeds fell among thorns, and the thorns grew up and choked them. Other seeds fell on good soil and brought forth grain, some a hundredfold, some sixty, some thirty. Let anyone with ears listen!”

The Holy Bible: New Revised Standard Version (Mt 13:3–10). (1989). Thomas Nelson Publishers.

Everyone who hears the gospel doesn’t take it to heart, they may believe, but only shallowly.

Let’s see what Yeshua say’s to his disciples about parables:

“Why do you speak to them in parables?” He answered, “To you it has been given to know the secrets of the kingdom of heaven, but to them it has not been given. For to those who have, more will be given, and they will have an abundance; but from those who have nothing, even what they have will be taken away. The reason I speak to them in parables is that ‘seeing they do not perceive, and hearing they do not listen, nor do they understand.’ With them indeed is fulfilled the prophecy of Isaiah that says:

    ‘You will indeed listen, but never understand,

    and you will indeed look, but never perceive.

    For this people’s heart has grown dull,

    and their ears are hard of hearing,

    and they have shut their eyes;

    so that they might not look with their eyes,

    and listen with their ears,

    and understand with their heart and turn—

    and I would heal them”

The Holy Bible: New Revised Standard Version (Mt 13:10–14). (1989). Thomas Nelson Publishers.

It is this:  Yeshua wants us to believe with our whole heart.  The original word heart in the Hebrew meant everything, (brain, heart, mind and body) our all.  When we bring ourselves to do this and become reborn, the gift of the Holy Spirit will help us with knowledge, wisdom and more toward working into Gods will for us.  These accomplishments will lead to JOY!

SUMMARY

“I believe” Yes it can be just as simple as that or it can be more.  Let’s look at the story of the two thieves crucified with Jesus:

 Luke 23:32-55

New Living Translation

32 Two others, both criminals, were led out to be executed with him. 33 When they came to a place called The Skull, [a] they nailed him to the cross. And the criminals were also crucified—one on his right and one on his left.

34 Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, for they don’t know what they are doing.”[b] And the soldiers gambled for his clothes by throwing dice.[c]

35 The crowd watched and the leaders scoffed. “He saved others,” they said, “let him save himself if he is really God’s Messiah, the Chosen One.” 36 The soldiers mocked him, too, by offering him a drink of sour wine. 37 They called out to him, “If you are the King of the Jews, save yourself!” 38 A sign was fastened above him with these words: “This is the King of the Jews.”

39 One of the criminals hanging beside him scoffed, “So you’re the Messiah, are you? Prove it by saving yourself—and us, too, while you’re at it!”

40 But the other criminal protested, “Don’t you fear God even when you have been sentenced to die? 41 We deserve to die for our crimes, but this man hasn’t done anything wrong.” 42 Then he said, “Jesus, remember me when you come into your Kingdom.”

43 And Jesus replied, “I assure you, today you will be with me in paradise.”

Today you will be with me in paradise.   That’s pretty simple isn’t it.  Let’s examine, he said remember me when you come into your kingdom.  Wow, he didn’t say “if”, he said “when”.  That sounds like whole hearted faith and belief to me.  I suspect, if a miracle occurred and the believing thief and Jesus were taken from the cross, healed and sent on their way.  This thief would be a follower, disciple and whole hearted believer in Jesus Christ.  The thief would be a changed man with a new spirit.  You would probably have seen him showing up around the synagogue’s and spreading the word on the street.   He would at least in some ways resemble a Holy person.  I doubt he would still be hanging with all his old criminal friends and if he was, he would be an imager of Jesus Christ not a co-conspirator of evil thinking.   Why? because at that moment his faith was not shallow, it was whole hearted.  Talk about making it in the nick of time.

I also suspect that this was the first time that an opportunity for salvation had been so close.  He openly admitted his guilt and his wish to change his ways (repentance) and he whole heartily believed. 

We all have this same opportunity as the thief.  We also will start sharing paradise immediately.  The difference is this sinful body that we must deal with.  No difference than the thief if he had been taken off the cross with his body alive.

So how important is it to know the Lord “whole heartedly” rather than just superficially:

“Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only the one who does the will of my Father in heaven. On that day many will say to me, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and cast out demons in your name, and do many deeds of power in your name?’ Then I will declare to them, ‘I never knew you; go away from me, you evildoers.’

The Holy Bible: New Revised Standard Version (Mt 7:21–24). (1989). Thomas Nelson Publishers.

Our various churches and religions like to use John 3:16“For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him may not perish but may have eternal life.”   It is a beautiful verse and certainly helps put people in the pews because it asks so little.  There could be something to that, after all you have to start somewhere, but let us remember not to end there.  For to help people understand, they need to know the whole chapter.   The church of Jesus Christ is a church of believers.   A shallow believer is still important as they are trying to find the trail.  Perhaps as believers we can be trail markers for them.  Pointing in the direction, being open to questions and doing our best as image reflectors.  Being a believer while in the body takes effort.  Read about Simon Peter if you have doubts.

 The journey (while in the body) can be very short as for the thief or very long as for the apostle’s but know this:  When you reach the end of the journey, you will be going to meet your Lord and dearest friend and confidant.  A friend that you Love and trust so completely that you obey without argument when he gives you direction.  A friend that Loves you so much that he trusts you with his body.  Anything is possible.   This won’t be a search, as you already know him.  It will be a homecoming.

Keeping the jewishness in Jesus

Submitted by: Ralph Thoren

February 20, 2021

We sometimes have a tendancy to filter the Bible and transform the stories ,people and truths into a different version in a Gentile sort of way.

By doing this we can miss the mark on The Truth. Jeff Benner and his wife, Denise have a website known as ancient Hebrew.org This site offers much education on Hebrew language, history and insite. Please enjoy the following open letter by Jeff. Thank You Jeff for all you do to help us in understanding our Lord Jesus Christ, who lived in this world as a Jew and now lives at the Right Hand of God “In The Light”.

By: Jeff Benner

Is there any advantage to understanding first century Judaism when reading the New Testament? Let’s take a look at a passage and see.

And he came to Nazareth, where he had been brought up: and he entered, as his custom was, into the synagogue on the sabbath day, and stood up to read. And there was delivered unto him the book of the prophet Isaiah. And he opened the book, and found the place where it was written, The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he anointed me to preach good tidings to the poor: He hath sent me to proclaim release to the captives, And recovering of sight to the blind, To set at liberty them that are bruised, To proclaim the acceptable year of the Lord. And he closed the book, and gave it back to the attendant, and sat down: and the eyes of all in the synagogue were fastened on him. And he began to say unto them, To-day hath this scripture been fulfilled in your ears. (Luke 4:16-21, ASV) When we read this, most of us envision Jesus getting up from his seat in the congregation and going to the podium from where he reads from the Book of Isaiah. When he finishes his reading, he retakes is seat in the congregation and everyone stares at him and from there he speaks to them. However, if we understand just one tradition that is different between Judaism and Christianity, we would have a little better understanding of this passage. Christian preachers teach from a standing position, but Jewish Rabbis teach from a sitting position. With this little tidbit of information, we now know that Jesus was the Rabbi, not a congregant. Read the passage above with this perspective and you will more clearly see what was going on here.

But there is more if we are open to understanding the Jewish culture of the New Testament period. Jesus did not just “choose” this passage in Isaiah; this passage was this Sabbath’s scheduled haftarah. Each Sabbath service includes two regularly scheduled readings. The first is from the Torah (Genesis through Deuteronomy), which is read in its entirety throughout the year. The second is the haftarah, which are specific, regularly scheduled, passages from the Writings and the Prophets of the Tanakh (Old Testament).

There is one other thing I would like to point out from this passage. Jesus was a devout Jew who not only obeyed and followed the commands of God, but also the traditions of Judaism, as long as those traditions did not violate the commands of God. In this passage we see that it was Jesus’ “custom” to attend synagogue. The whole concept of the synagogue was created during Israel’s exile in Babylon and is therefore, a tradition of Judaism, not the Torah (God’s teachings).

Now for some speculation. The predominant theory concerning the Dead Sea Scrolls is that these scrolls were written and hidden away in caves by a small sect of Judaism called the Essenes. However, there is another theory, not as popular, but it is the one that I ascribe to, the Dead Sea Caves were the burial place for old scrolls that were no longer serviceable. In Judaism, any document containing the name of God, YHWH, must be buried and never destroyed. Evidence supporting this theory is that among the Dead Sea Scrolls the book of Esther has no been found. This is the only book of the Tanak (Old Testament) that does not include the name YHWH, which means that it does not require burial. In this theory, it is possible that the Great Isaiah Scroll discovered in the Dead Sea Caves could be the very scroll Jesus read from. There is another possibility worth looking at. A scroll may last for up to 500 years meaning that the scroll that Jesus read from, may be an original copy from Isaiah’s original scroll.

LABELS

This is the challenge for us as followers of Christ: to love more than we label.

‘Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.’ – Philippians 2:3-4

Quote: Listen more than you defend. Reflect more than you react. Love more than you label.

Meditate on this a bit. In this time of political division and unrest as well as relationships. How well do I do at reflecting my Lord in Labels? Fearfully, I must admit failure. My Prayer: Lord help me to extinguish labeling in my thoughts and actions. Holy Spirit, I ask, be quick to convict me as labeling thoughts enter my thinking. Amen

Key to the Kingdom Startup Kit

Kingdom Bracelet Part List
Part
Black Beads		Description 1000 black pony beads, 6x9mmReference # 616967695335Last Price $4.99Where Purchased Amazon
Red Beads1000 red pony beads. 6×9 mm616967695397$6.99Amazon
White Beads1000 white pony beads.  6×9 mm616967695359$6.99Amazon
Blue Beads1000 blue pony beads. 6×9 mm616967695571$6.99Amazon
Green Beads1000 green pony beads. 6×9 mmB0b33y4syj$6.99Amazon
Gold Beads1000 gold beads.  6×9 mm750238134861$7.99Amazon
Leather BestTeely 3mm genuine leather. Light Brown, 5 yardsBOCB7P77B3$7.49Amazon
GoodPleasug 3mm 10 ydsBODRCGRZZF$7.99Amazon
Fair-breaks in glue spots.3 bundles  16.5 ydsB0972HXCZC$7.99Amazon
Key Chain Parts Small rivet200pcs uxcell crimp 8×4 mm158.249$8.39Amazon
Large rivet200 pcs uxcell crimp 10×6 mmB0C14RFG99$9.99Amazon
Split ring200 pcs Fardme key ring $.999Amazon
Crimping pliersBeadsmith crimping pliersBeadsmith$11.99Amazon
Parts boxHusky stackable heavy duty 10 compartment tool and parts organiser303907499 Computer lookup #.$26.98Home Depot and other online outlets
Scissors, paper punch and pliersTools used for cards and knots at times  anywhere
Plastic key cardsCards designed to be saved in a billfold or purse.  Description of journey by color.Custom made by Vista Print online. $270.00 / 500 countThese cards could be ordered at a local print shop as well.

This is the kit we developed by trial and error. Your kit can be the same or different. If you have any problems feel free to email or call..

listentotheholyspirit@gmail.com

Fasting

What does Lord Yeshua say about fasting and prayer?

June 26, 2025

Last night we attended a study group at a local Church.  The pastor led us into a deep dive on the verses about the 1 and 99 (sheep) (Mathew 18:12-14 and Luke 15:3-7).  And a comparison with the parable of the prodigal son (Luke 15:11-32).  The question was: why did the Father chase after the lost sheep, but simply waited for the prodigal son?

 I’ll also leave the reader to meditate on this; however, it is clear in both cases that the Father loved the missing and was filled with joy at the return.  Now, the rest of the story:

We moved on to a discussion about the casting of the demon and why it took prayer or prayer and fasting to get the job done, (Mark 9:29).  Some versions say prayer and fasting and others say only prayer.  Does this in any way reduce the value of fasting for a believer? 

Our Lord Jesus started his ministry with fasting!  Our Lord talked about the value of spiritual food over physical food and even some specific directions on fasting.  He expected his followers to fast.

How to Fast

Mathew 6:16 “Whenever you fast, don’t be gloomy like the hypocrites. For they disfigure their faces so that their fasting is obvious to people. Truly I tell you, they have their reward. 17 But when you fast, put oil on your head and wash your face, 18 so that your fasting isn’t obvious to others but to your Father who is in secret. And your Father who sees in secret will reward you.

Summary:

   I found the following theological discussion on the topic.  It seems to express my views:

It is worth noting that in the New Testament fasting was simply prayer so focused and intense that a person did not give attention to things like eating or drinking—so either way, Jesus is emphasizing that the demon in Mark 9 could only come out by intensive prayer.

As Jesus explains to the crowd, the key was the faith of those involved (e.g., Mark 9:19, 23). So it is evident that prayer rooted in faith in Jesus Christ is effective (see James’ assertion that the prayer of a righteous [believing] person is effective, James 5:16b). Jesus was challenging the crowd, the boy’s father, and the disciples on the importance of believing in Him as the One who could accomplish what would otherwise be impossible.

Fasting can be accomplished in many ways.  One can do a water fast for a certain time period, a Dailey fast for a agreed time period, a food type fast as Daniel did and other ideas.  The point is, fasting can be physically helpful if done correctly and spiritually enhancing if the experience is between you and God.  With intensive spiritual prayer, fasting is a side effect not an ingredient.  So, can I pray without fasting?  Of course, yet intensive  prayer might put you into fasting. 

Ie.  Praying while munching on Cheetos and watching the football game might not be considered intensive prayer.

Can I talk about my fasting?  Of course, but not with pride or boast.  Sometimes a couple of Brothers will fast simultaneously for support.  Fasting can be challenging, especially if you are new to the idea.   The idea is: your fasting is between your God and yourself.  The more you keep it that way, the more spiritually effective it will be. 

I am pro fasting.   If you are new to the idea, I recommend reading up on it or discussing with others that have practiced  fasting.  Modern Doctors have split opinions:  some pro, some con.  Do your research and start easy.  I am open to discuss fasting with anyone.

שלום  (Shalom)

Praise ?

Which Father do I Worship?

Is it really important how I worship?  How I display my Love for God, whether I stand, sit, or kneel, do I raise my hands, dance or chant and should I sing along. I would like to discuss these very important questions? Let me offer some groundwork:

Our Father who art in Heaven

We are familiar with the trinity.  The Father, Son and Holy Spirit.  Now let’s look at this verse: John 10:30 “I and the Father are One”.  To be in the presence of Lord Yeshua (Jesus) would be as being in the presence of YHWH (I AM) or Lord God Almighty.     To be in this presence demands praise.  The Holy Spirit pushes you and nudges you to praise.  You feel the motivation to praise.  As our Lord Yeshua said in:  Luke 39 Some of the Pharisees from the crowd said to Him, “Teacher, rebuke Your disciples [for shouting these Messianic praises].” 40 Jesus replied, “I tell you, if these [people] keep silent, the stones will cry out [in praise]!”

OK, it is clear, there will be times in public worship when we will be motivated to praise in one form or another.  The question is: why would “these people keep silent?”

Your Father “the Devil”

Yeshua made it clear that there is another spiritual Father on earth.  John 8:44” You are of your father the devil, and it is your will to practice the desires [which are characteristic] of your father.”     Our Lord made this statement to religious people of that time!

The groundwork is laid.  This discussion, (praise or not to praise) is about loyalty and/or freedom.

Our spiritual father “The Devil” taught us many things in our worldly life.  He used many tools to keep our loyalty.  Ie:  pride from monetary success (cars, boats, houses, etc.)  the pleasures from improper sex, greed, food etc.  This father showed us a lot and we learned and believed as did our worldly brothers and sisters whom we pridefully competed with.  This father used shame and other tools to keep us in line and loyal.   We thought it was all good and we were loyal to this father in many ways.    He didn’t do a good job of showing us the truth.    It was all sin and would lead to our death, but we didn’t know all of that.

 Many of us seek our Heavenly Father and/or Jesus Christ.

     Since the beginning our God who art in heaven has been clearing the path to allow us to reach out and re-connect with our true Father.  Lord Jesus has made an impact! Churches have been established and the “word” of truth has been let out of the bag.  Seekers of this truth go to worship centers (churches) looking for the truth.  There are various levels of seekers and believers in worship.

Let’s just talk about three groups:

  1.  The new seeker.  This person has wandered into Church, hoping to learn more about it.  Still (unknowingly) loyal to their worldly father (the Devil), but wanting to know the truth.
  2. The academic Church goer.  This person now believes that it is important to go to Church and pray and learn “about” Jesus.  Still heavily influenced by their worldly father, but has knowledge of their Heavenly Father.
  3. The re-born Christian.  This person has had an experience with God.  They have known the presence of the Holy Spirit and/or Lord Jesus, but as the name say’s “re-born”.  They are still infants in their new life.  They have a new Father and new brothers and sisters, but yet infants in all knowledge.  But they do have memory.  Memory of the past life, memory of past loyalties and lots of brothers and sisters from that past life.

What happens when these groups are exposed to “the presence of God?”

The scene:  The Worship Center is full and musicians are filling the house with beautiful music and prayerful lyrics.  Most people are sitting, yet some are standing, some raising their hands in praise, some are singing, some are dancing with the music and there is a fellow kneeling and in prayer.   The spirit is strong and the presence of God is apparent.  What are the thoughts in our 3 groups?

What are these worshipers thinking?  And possible outcomes. 

I will consider some behavior examples

Group 1:  Curiosity, what would bring people to that behavior.  I’m not sure any of this is real?  Yet, something is happening.  I’ll sit here until I figure it out.  Standing up would be embarrassing or I can stand.  I don’t know anybody else here anyway. 

     This person is not moved to praise.  Even if they do stand, it’s just group dynamics.  Their loyalty is with their worldly father even though they are in a worship center and the presence of God is at hand.

Group 2:  I have seen many people get demonstrative in their praise, but I can just sit here and praise Jesus.  I know about him and what he did and he deserves my praise.  I could stand, but I see my friends over there and they are not standing.  Demonstrative praise is optional.  a.  OK, I choose not to be embarrassed.       Or       b.  Why not stand, it doesn’t take long and from what I know about Jesus, he certainly deserves that honor.  They have some loyalty to who Jesus was and what he did.  But they do not understand the presence of God.

Group 3:  I feel the spirit of God and the Holy Spirit is nudging me to praise “my Lord Yeshua” I know what you did for me and I Love you with all that I have and want to show you.   While standing, the Holy Spirit nudges, “should you be kneeling?”  Ohh, I don’t now if I have to go that far?  Not many others are kneeling. 

 Or “Lord Jesus its just you and me here.”  I want to show you how much I love you and need you.  I want everyone to know that I am yours.  No doubts, no questions.  If you want me on my knees, Ill be there.  If you want me singing, Ill be there.  If you want me dancing, Ill try to be there.  If you want me sitting quietly in prayer, Ill be there.  I just want it to be clear, I am yours and you are mine. 

Our Lord Yeshua wants to have a personal relationship with us.  When we get an opportunity to worship and praise him.  We’re going to take it.  If Holy Spirit convicts us to kneel, were going to do it.  Singing along is a given.  If we are overjoyed, we are going to dance or jive with the music.  We are not doing any of these things for any reason other than pleasing our living, Lord.  We do not want praise for yourself, we could be an example of freedom of praise, but that is not the goal. 

Remember David, when he brought the ark into temple.  He was so overjoyed, that he removed his outer garments, was singing and dancing to the shame of many, but not David.  He was free of his worldly father (the devil) at that time and was making a definite statement as to whom he was loyal to. 

Many say that the accuser (devil) is always looking for an opportunity to accuse us in Front of our God.  To allow pride and shame to keep chains on you is to offer loyalty to the Devil, while in the house of God.  Let’s state that again:  To allow pride and/or shame to keep chains on you is to offer loyalty to the Devil, while in the house of God.

Summary:

Praising our God can be done sitting, standing, kneeling, singing, dancing and/or praying.  If from the heart all are witnessed.  However, if you are motivated to praise from the heart,  never allow the accuser’s tools to slow down your praise, for to do so would be to shame our God.

Submitted by:  Ralph Thoren

4/2025

My Mentor

My Mentor

The trail is long, and marbled in light. A bit here and a bit there

While I once was mature and knew the way , I now stumble and not so sure

In past, I gave directions and spoke with confidence, some say.

Now I am in school. Learning much, but much to learn.

Somehow a child again I’ve become. My best friend is loyal and true

But I can’t see him as I do you.

You were young and confident when we first met.

The man I saw resembled my friend. I trusted him

My friend urged me on, as a friend will do. He wanted me on the path too

Do this, do that, my friend say’s. You simply provided in a quiet comfortable way

This path has a lot of obstacles and pitfalls. At times My friend holds my hand to keep me from falling

I suspect the same for you.

What’s that I see ahead? Why it’s the library and there you are helping all find what they need

My friend see’s you too

When will Jesus Return

Jesus’ Return: What Peter Wrote About the Second Coming of Christ

Peter’s Last—and Lasting—Words

by Whitney Woollard – Dec 10, 2017

Second Peter is a little book with a whole lot of passion. It feels intense, but that’s to be expected when the apostolic pillar of the early church pens his last words. Peter knows he’s about to die, so he carefully crafts this farewell speech to the network of churches in Asia Minor (2Peter1:12-15}

12Wherefore I will not be negligent to put you always in remembrance of these things, though ye know them, and be established in the present truth. 13Yea, I think it meet, as long as I am in this tabernacle, to stir you up by putting you in remembrance; 14knowing that shortly I must put off this my tabernacle, even as our Lord Jesus Christ hath shewed me. 15Moreover I will endeavor that ye may be able after my decease to have these things always in remembrance.

). He wants his final exhortations and warnings to be recorded and preserved in order to serve as a memorial of his teaching for future generations, which includes our generation today. And I think you’ll discover that his message is as timely today as it was then.

What’s 2 Peter All About?

In chapter one, Peter challenges believers to never stop growing in godliness and Christ-like qualities. Then, in chapters two and three, he pivots towards the corrupt teachers who were denying the return of Jesus and final judgment in order to justify their immoral behavior. Their combined skepticism of Jesus’ return with their love of sin without consequences was all too convenient. They could reject biblical authority, get rich quick by teaching a false message of Christian “freedom,” and have lots of casual sex all without fear of accountability or judgment. It was a classic “have your cake and eat it too” scenario.

Peter wasn’t having any of it. He condemns them in chapter two, reminding his readers of God’s certain judgment on wickedness. To make his case he follows a rabbinic formula of proof, which moves from a minor to a major premise. It goes like this: if A is true, how much more so is B true also. Using that formula, he pulls from notorious events in biblical history to knock it out of the park. If (A) God did not spare the fallen angels, the ancient civilization in Noah’s day, or Sodom and Gomorrah (2Peter2:4-8) 4. For if God spared not the angels that sinned, but cast them down to hell, and delivered them into chains of darkness, to be reserved unto judgment; 5. and spared not the old world, but saved Noah the eighth person, a preacher of righteousness, bringing in the flood upon the world of the ungodly; 6. and turning the cities of Sodom and Gomorrha into ashes condemned them with an overthrow, making them an example unto those that after should live ungodly; 7. and delivered just Lot, vexed with the filthy conversation of the wicked: 8. (for that righteous man dwelling among them, in seeing and hearing, vexed his righteous soul from day to day with their unlawful deeds;) 

), then (B) how much more so will he bring certain judgment on false teachers who claim to be Christians but reject the truth (2Peter2:9-10) 9. the Lord knoweth how to deliver the godly out of temptations, and to reserve the unjust unto the day of judgment to be punished: 10. but chiefly them that walk after the flesh in the lust of uncleanness, and despise government. Presumptuous are they, selfwilled, they are not afraid to speak evil of dignities. 

Moreover, their knowledge of the gospel will actually make them more culpable on the final day of judgment (which, by the way, is coming!). Wow. Let’s just say, Peter: 1, False Teachers: 0.

But Peter doesn’t stop there. The allegation that the delay of Jesus disapproves the expectation of his return demands a response. Yes. The false teachers needed to be silenced, but the young churches also needed to be shepherded through the delay. After all, they were living through the first wave of organized persecution against Christians during the reign of Nero, a wicked Roman emperor. The question initially raised by the corrupt leaders would have become inescapable in the minds of these persecuted Christians. Why did Jesus delay when such palpable evil was ruling the day?

This very real, felt question isn’t limited to first-century believers. Just look at the world around you. Evil is rampant. There’s violence and mass shootings and terror. There’s brokenness and pain and suffering. The innocent are oppressed while the wicked prosper. High rise moguls get rich while the assaulted are shunned. We can’t help but wrestle with the same question. What’s taking Jesus so long to return and right all wrongs?

The Central Crisis: What’s Taking Jesus SO Long?

Second Peter 3  actually contains the most explicit treatment of the delay of the parousia (a Greek word that means the second coming of Jesus at the end of human history) in the entire  New Testament, so it’s particularly important if you’re trying to make sense of this wait.

Peter begins by reminding his readers how the Scriptures warned there would be scoffers in the last days who depart from truth and follow sinful desires. They would question the promise of God’s return, citing that ever since the patriarchs died, all things have continued just as they were from the beginning. They purposefully overlook the fact that God had intervened before, both in the account of creation and the flood. God would surely intervene again on a final day of reckoning for the unrighteous and rescue for the righteous (2 Pet. 3:1-7) 1. This second epistle, beloved, I now write unto you; in both which I stir up your pure minds by way of remembrance: 2. that ye may be mindful of the words which were spoken before by the holy prophets, and of the commandment of us the apostles of the Lord and Saviour: 3. knowing this first, that there shall come in the last days scoffers, walking after their own lusts, 4. and saying, Where is the promise of his coming? for since the fathers fell asleep, all things continue as they were from the beginning of the creation. 5. For this they willingly are ignorant of, that by the word of God the heavens were of old, and the earth standing out of the water and in the water: 6. whereby the world that then was, being overflowed with water, perished: 7. but the heavens and the earth, which are now, by the same word are kept in store, reserved unto fire against the day of judgment and perdition of ungodly men.

). Peter then moves to his central argument on how to understand the delay of the parousia in verses 8-9 8 .But, beloved, be not ignorant of this one thing, that one day is with the Lord as a thousand years, and a thousand years as one day. 9. The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering toward us, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.

Hit Pause!

At this point, we need to pause because there’s differing schools of thought on how to understand Peter’s logic in verse 8 .

 (“one day is as a thousand years”). Without boring you, I’ll briefly share two prevailing views in order to reject both for a more balanced, biblical alternative, which I think better helps us to understand the meaning of the delay. (Note: I’m following Richard Bauckham’s excellent work done on 2 Peter here.)

One school says you have to interpret the verse in light of parallels in contemporary Jewish and Christian literature, following a chronological formulation where a “day” means a thousand years in human terms. Interpreted this way, Verse 8  is speaking to chronological data (the day of judgment will last a thousand years), not to the delay of Jesus’ return.

But this doesn’t work in light of the context of 2 Peter 3.

The whole chapter is built around refuting scoffers who deny the Lord’s coming, so why would Peter turn aside from his central argument to give one line of chronological data about how long the day of judgment would last? It just doesn’t add up.

The second school acknowledges that verse 8  is indeed Peter’s answer to the problem of the delay raised by the scoffers in verses 1-7, but they hold that his use of Psalm 90:4 ,4. For a thousand years in thy sight are but as yesterday When it is past, and as a watch in the night.

 is a novel idea produced in an ad hoc kind of way to meet the urgent issue raised by the false teachers. They don’t understand Peter to be utilizing any resources from contemporary Jewish or Christian literature.

I also find this highly unlikely. In the Apocalypse of Baruch, a contemporary of Peter reflects on Psalm 90:4, contrasting God’s eternal existence with man’s brief span of life. Clearly, there’s Jewish precedence for a reading of Psalm 90:4. in its original sense during Peter’s day. It’s hard to believe that Peter, writing as a thoroughly Jewish Christian, was unaware of this material while simultaneously using Psalm 90:4, in the same manner. It doesn’t fly.

That said, how should we understand Peter’s argument in Psalm 90 verses 8-9 ? 8. Thou hast set our iniquities before thee, Our secret sins in the light of thy countenance. 9. For all our days are passed away in thy wrath: We spend our years as a tale that is told.

Hit Play Again—What’s Taking Jesus SO Long?

We should read these verses according to their genre (apocalyptic eschatology), appreciating that Peter is a Jewish Christian who has been shaped by apocalyptic visionaries throughout the centuries. He would have been intimately familiar with writers such as Habakkuk or Daniel or Baruch, men who knew what it was to cry out in anguish, “How long O Lord,” while maintaining trust in God’s sovereign purposes, even as he delayed. He would have learned from their fierce faith in the face of evil to trust that God’s timetable was not his own and that God’s delay was part and parcel of the plan.

This helps us see how Peter, when confronted with the delay of Jesus’ return, does not hastily contrive arguments in hopes of calming fears for a moment. Rather, he brilliantly enters into a long line of apocalyptic tradition saturated with eschatological delay to form arguments regarding the parousia that were already familiar in his readers’ minds. Through this technique, he is able to help them (and us!) understand how the delay holds great meaning within it. Check out his two points:

One: God’s timetable is different than ours (verse 8).

Ah. This one’s hard to grasp in the face of all the evil that we see, yet apocalyptic writers were quick to point out that God operates on a different eschatological clock than we do. His eternal, everlasting perception of time frees him from human concerns. Our human expectation of the “situation” as we see it is bound by our own brief existence and our desire to experience full redemption. We’re impatient to see our broken lives fully restored, so we cry out with the martyrs of Revelation 6, 9, And when he had opened the fifth seal, I saw under the altar the souls of them that were slain for the word of God, and for the testimony which they held: 10 and they cried with a loud voice, saying, How long, O Lord, holy and true, dost thou not judge and avenge our blood on them that dwell on the earth? 11. And white robes were given unto every one of them; and it was said unto them, that they should rest yet for a little season, until their fellow servants also and their brethren, that should be killed as they were, should be fulfilled.

12 And I beheld when he had opened the sixth seal, and, lo, there was a great earthquake; and the sun became black as sackcloth of hair, and the moon became as blood; 13 and the stars of heaven fell unto the earth, even as a fig tree casteth her untimely figs, when she is shaken of a mighty wind. 14. And the heaven departed as a scroll when it is rolled together; and every mountain and island were moved out of their places. 15. And the kings of the earth, and the great men, and the rich men, and the chief captains, and the mighty men, and every bondman, and every free man, hid themselves in the dens and in the rocks of the mountains; 16. and said to the mountains and rocks, Fall on us, and hide us from the face of him that sitteth on the throne, and from the wrath of the Lamb: 17. For the great day of his wrath is come; and who shall be able to stand?

“How long O Lord?!”

Peter reminds us that “the eternal God is free from that particular impatience” (The Delay of the Parousia, Richard Bauckham). He’s not bound by a desire for personal redemption or limited by human perspective. Thus, what seems so long to us, might not be as significant when viewed from the perspective of the eternal God who surveys and rules over all of human history.

Two: God is patient, wanting all to come to repentance (verse 9).

Lest we think God works according to his own timetable without any sense of the urgency with which evil and suffering confront us, Peter gives his second argument taken from Jewish apocalyptic writing—God delays not because he is slow, but because he is patient toward sinners, giving everyone time for repentance. We see this in God’s description of himself from Exodus 34:6-7

, “…The Lord, the Lord, a God merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and abounding in steadfast love and faithfulness, keeping steadfast love for thousands, forgiving iniquity and transgression and sin, but who will by no means clear the guilty… .”

This is as true as ever when it comes to the parousia. Though we may long for Jesus’ return and the defeat of all evil, God has allowed these last days to continue so that more people can turn towards him in faith. The delay isn’t a hiccup in his plan; it’s a part of his plan, which makes him kind, not cruel. Jesus will indeed return to judge the living and the dead, but as long as the parousia is delayed, there’s still time for people to repent and trust in Jesus. This truth should actually fuel our patience and passion as we await our Lord’s return.

So How Do We Live Right NOW?

With patience and purpose! Peter says we’re to be characterized by holiness and godliness as we wait for and hasten the coming of the day of God (2 Pet. 3:11-12) 11. Seeing then that all these things shall be dissolved, what manner of persons ought ye to be in all holy conversation and godliness, 12. looking for and hasting unto the coming of the day of God, wherein the heavens being on fire shall be dissolved, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat? 

Like the apocalyptic visionaries of old, we’re called to patiently trust in the perfect purposes of God. But this text also suggests that Christian living actually has an effect on God’s timetable (we can “hasten” the coming of the Lord) as we live out the new covenant realities.

That’s pretty profound.

As followers of Jesus who believe that the eschatological promises have broken into the present through the work of Jesus and the outpouring of the Spirit, we don’t wait idly for Jesus’ return, nor do we live like the corrupt teachers who saw Jesus’ delay as an opportunity to indulge the flesh. Rather, like Peter, we live as new, transformed humans who take advantage of the divine delay to join in God’s redemptive purposes. We live out our days bearing witness to Jesus, continuing his mission, fighting back the powers of darkness, and hastening the day when those purposes will be fully accomplished.

So yes, we wait. But we wait patiently, knowing that God is orchestrating all of human history towards his glorious end. And we wait purposely, joining in God’s redemptive mission to make disciples of all people.

Whitney Woollard is a writer, speaker, and Bible teacher in Portland, OR. She holds her M.A. in biblical and theological studies from Western Seminary and loves sharing her passion for the Bible with others. You can check out her work at her website, whitneywoollard.com

Our High Priest

By: Ralph Thoren April 15,2024

If you have not yet read the blog “Born Again-Now What”; I suggest you go back and read it first. It is at that point that you will get an idea of what this website is all about.

I will update readers on my personal journey from August 2021 to the present (April 2024). Jane and I still reside in Florida mostly, but yet have the property in North. I am mostly retired from outside work and much of my time is dedicated to study of the word and/or prayer. I am also active in Men’s Group at the Vineyard and growing in my spiritual maturity with the strong help of the Holy Spirit. I still consider the Vineyard to be a worship center and gathering place for education and spiritual organization. I consider Church to be reborn Christians that are in communication with our High Priest and have the Holy Spirit working actively within them. Too make it short, I believe the activities of the local meeting place should be coming from the Holy Spirit rather than a board of business men. I also believe that our local Vineyard gets much direction from the Holy Spirit and is mostly why it remains as a strong center of learning and worship in our area.

During this past Easter worship period, Pastor Steve was sharing a great message when he suddenly talked about a spiritual experience he had jus a couple nights before during a worship service. He talks about how the Lord also wanted him to communicate the need for believers to realize that he is a Living God; not just a miraculous resurrection from 2000& years ago. How can we be following our God if we do not know him. The barriers between you and your Lord are pride and fear. Kind of small potatoes to get to know your Lord, who offers you salvation into eternity. Anyway, just listen to this clip and consider the possibilities. Pastor Steve’s enlightenment:

JUDAS ASCARIOT

Written by: Ralph Thoren

January 9,2024

“ I never knew you”

There are always some verses that seem difficult to understand.  This was just such a verse. For me:

Mathew 21 “Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but the one who does the will of My Father who is in heaven will enter. 22Many will say to Me on that day, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in Your name, and in Your name cast out demons, and in Your name perform many miracles?’ 23And then I will declare to them, ‘I never knew you; leave Me, you who practice lawlessness.

I simply could not understand how our LORD could not know this person.  After all they did prophesy in his name, they did cast out demons in his name and performed many miracles in his name.   How could he not know them.    Ahhh, The answer came, let’s read about Judas Ascariot.

MATTHEW 10

The Twelve Disciples; Instructions for Service

1 Jesus summoned His twelve disciples and gave them authority over unclean spirits, to cast them out, and to heal every disease and every sickness.

2Now the names of the twelve apostles are these: The first, Simon, who is called Peter, and his brother Andrew; and James the son of Zebedee, and his brother John; 3Philip and Bartholomew; Thomas and Matthew the tax collector; James the son of Alphaeus, and Thaddaeus; 4Simon the Zealot, and Judas Iscariot, the one who also betrayed Him.

    This occurred soon after the healing of the blind man, the waking of the sleeping girl and the 12 year afflicted woman.  Judas was considered a disciple and had healing powers.

JOHN 12

Mary Anoints Jesus

1Therefore, six days before the Passover, Jesus came to Bethany where Lazarus was, whom Jesus had raised from the dead. 2So they made Him a dinner there, and Martha was serving; and Lazarus was one of those reclining at the table with Him. 3Mary then took a pound of very expensive perfume of pure nard, and anointed the feet of Jesus and wiped His feet with her hair; and the house was filled with the fragrance of the perfume. 4But Judas Iscariot, one of His disciples, the one who intended to betray Him, *said, 5“Why was this perfume not sold for three hundred denarii and the proceeds given to poor people?” 6Now he said this, not because he cared about the poor, but because he was a thief, and as he kept the money box and he used to steal from what was put into it.

  Our Lord knows Judas is a thief, yet he only scolds him lightly.

7Therefore Jesus said, “Leave her alone, so that she may keep it for the day of My burial. 8For you always have the poor with you, but you do not always have Me.”

Would a re-born Christian who witnessed miracles and wonders truly ever consider the statement that Judas made?  I do not think so.  He is stealing Gods Money  right under the nose of his Lord and Messiah.  No, Judas is not a believer. 

   This incident seemed to be enough for our non-repentant, non-believing sinner Judas to move

Judas’ Bargain  Mathew 26

14Then one of the twelve, named Judas Iscariot, went to the chief priests 15and said, “What are you willing to give me to betray Him to you?” And they set out for him thirty pieces of silver. 16And from then on he looked for a good opportunity to betray Jesus.

  And the plot thickens:

JOHN 13  THE LORD’S SUPPER

having loved His own who were in the world, He loved them to the end. 2And during supper, the devil having already put into the heart of Judas Iscariot, the son of Simon, to betray Him,

9Simon Peter *said to Him, “Lord, then wash not only my feet, but also my hands and my head!” 10Jesus *said to him, “He who has bathed needs only to wash his feet; otherwise he is completely clean. And you are clean—but not all of you.” 11For He knew the one who was betraying Him; it was for this reason that He said, “Not all of you are clean.”

  Our Lord continued his work with his betrayer right alongside of him

Jesus Predicts His Betrayal

21When Jesus had said these things, He became troubled in spirit, and testified and said, “Truly, truly I say to you that one of you will betray Me.” 22The disciples began looking at one another, at a loss to know of which one He was speaking. 23Lying back on Jesus’ chest was one of His disciples, whom Jesus loved. 24So Simon Peter *nodded to this disciple and *said to him, “Tell us who it is of whom He is speaking.” 25He then simply leaned back on Jesus’ chest and *said to Him, “Lord, who is it?” 26Jesus then *answered, “That man is the one for whom I shall dip the piece of bread and give it to him.” So when He had dipped the piece of bread, He *took and *gave it to Judas, the son of Simon Iscariot. 27After this, Satan then entered him. Therefore Jesus *said to him, “What you are doing, do it quickly.” 28Now none of those reclining at the table knew for what purpose He had said this to him. 29For some were assuming, since Judas kept the money box, that Jesus was saying to him, “Buy the things we need for the feast”; or else, that he was to give something to the poor. 30So after receiving the piece of bread, he left immediately; and it was night.

  The other eleven still just don’t get it, however Jesus say’s this:

JOHN 17

12While I was with them, I was keeping them in Your name, which You have given Me; and I guarded them, and not one of them perished except the son of destruction, so that the Scripture would be fulfilled.

 JUDAS  BECAME KNOWN AS THE “SON OF PERDITION” 

per·di·tion

[pərˈdiSHən]

NOUN

(in Christian theology) a state of eternal punishment and damnation into which a sinful and unpenitent person passes after death.

  Notice: a repentant person could excape perdition.

  Ok, at this stage, we have discovered much about the character of Judas.

  1. He was a non-believer, he was not a re-born Christian, yet he stayed on as a disciple.
  2. He was a money hungry thief.

JOHN 18

Judas Betrays Jesus

1When Jesus had spoken these words, He went away with His disciples across the ravine of the Kidron, where there was a garden which He entered with His disciples. 2Now Judas, who was betraying Him, also knew the place, because Jesus had often met there with His disciples. 3So Judas, having obtained the Roman cohort and officers from the chief priests and the Pharisees, *came there with lanterns, torches, and weapons. 4Jesus therefore, knowing all the things that were coming upon Him, came out into the open and *said to them, “Whom are you seeking?” 5They answered Him, “Jesus the Nazarene.” He *said to them, “I am He.” And Judas also, who was betraying Him, was standing with them.         Note: John doesn’t mention “the kiss” as does Mathew.  I suspect John slept a little and just wasn’t quite awake yet.                                                                                              6Now then, when He said to them, “I am He,” they drew back and fell to the ground. 7He then asked them again, “Whom are you seeking?” And they said, “Jesus the Nazarene.” 8Jesus answered, “I told you that I am He; so if you are seeking Me, let these men go on their way.” 9This took place so that the word which He spoke would be fulfilled: “Of those whom You have given Me I lost not one.”

  They took Jesus into custody and moved on with him toward the crucifixion.   What did Judas do?

 MATTHEW 27

Judas’ Remorse

1Now when morning came, all the chief priests and the elders of the people conferred together against Jesus to put Him to death; 2and they bound Him and led Him away, and handed Him over to Pilate the governor.

3Then when Judas, who had betrayed Him, saw that He had been condemned, he felt remorse and returned the thirty pieces of silver to the chief priests and elders, 4saying, “I have sinned by betraying innocent blood.” But they said, “What is that to us? You shall see to it yourself!” 5And he threw the pieces of silver into the temple sanctuary and left; and he went away and hanged himself.

Remorse and regret are emotions, but they are not repentance.  A re-born Christian would know that humble repentance would be required.  Repentance is acknowledgement of sinful behavior and a sincere change of heart and action.   Remorse and Repentance are not the same.  They can overlap, but they cannot be exchanged.

    I now understand Mathew 7:21

21 “Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but the one who does the will of My Father who is in heaven will enter. 22Many will say to Me on that day, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in Your name, and in Your name cast out demons, and in Your name perform many miracles?’ 23And then I will declare to them, ‘I never knew you;          

Amen ,  So be it                    

Written by: Ralph Thoren for: www.listentotheholyspirit.com  no copywrite intended

Scott has a Breakthrough

Posted by: Ralph Thoren

November 7, 2023

TESTIMONIAL’S

  1. Scott F.     While leading a class on listening to the Holy Spirit in Winter of 2023.    At times I asked participants if they have had any breakthroughs.   Scott was a very motivated student and desired progress.  The following is his story as he relayed it to me February 23, 2023.

Scott stated “I have been worried about a cancer returning during the past week.”  “I have an appointment with my Dr. to talk about the test.”  “While I was in the Dr’s office I was in prayer with the Lord.  My Wife, {Robin) was waiting in the reception area.”   I was quiet and patiently waiting for a revelation when I Heard” “you will be fine”.  I thought I should test the Spirit, that it was coming from God.  I received a “yes”.    This being new to me I continued to pray for more assurance.  My inner voice stated “Scott, why do you not trust me?”  That seemed to calm me and I was ready to talk to the Dr.

     All this time Scott’s wife had been waiting and praying in the reception area.    When Scott met with her, Robin said “You’re going to be just fine.”  “Did you hear?”   Scott replied “Did you talk to the Dr?”  Scott’s wife stated “No, I heard it from the Holy Spirit!!”

Thus, Scott discovered his ability to listen to the Holy Spirit.

Melchizedek

Paper by: Ralph Thoren and others
Date: November 5, 2023


Just who is Melchizedek and why is he important in our study of our Lord Yeshua?
Melchizedek is a mysterious and enigmatic figure appearing in the Hebrew Bible, specifically in the Book of Genesis and the Psalms, and referenced in the New Testament, particularly in the Book of Hebrews.
Described as the King of Salem (believed to be ancient Jerusalem) and the Priest of the Most High God, Melchizedek blesses Abram (later Abraham) after his victory over the kings. His uniqueness lies in his dual roles as a king and a priest, a combination not found in the traditional Jewish Levitical priesthood. He is also notable for his lack of genealogy, appearing and disappearing from the scriptural narrative without a trace of lineage or legacy, which the Book of Hebrews compares to the eternal priesthood of Jesus Christ. Melchizedek’s brief but powerful biblical presence has sparked extensive theological debate and speculation about his true nature and origins throughout history.
Hebrews 6:20 {NASB 95} where Jesus has entered as a forerunner for us, having become a high priest forever according to the order of Melchizedek.
An interesting study. What does it mean, “according to the order of Melchizedec”??
After some research, lots of possibilities emerge.
Dr. TIM GRAY wrote the following commentary:
Gospels emphatically point out that Jesus is a descendant of the line of David, from the tribe of Judah. This royal lineage is essential for Jesus’ claim to be the king of Israel, the Messiah. But some Jews posed the following challenge:

If you claim that Jesus is king because He is of the royal line of David, from the tribe of Judah, then how can you claim that Jesus is also a priest, since priests must be from the tribe of Levi? Either Jesus is from the tribe of Levi or the tribe of Judah: Which is it?
This question arises in the Letter to the Hebrews (Heb 7:14). The text answers the question by citing Psalm 110, where the Lord says to the royal Messiah, “Thou art a priest forever, after the order of Melchizedek” (Heb 7:17). The Messiah is said to be a priest, not after the order of Aaron and the Levites, but according to the order of Melchizedek. Melchizedek is the priest-king of Salem who blesses Abraham and offers up bread and wine to God. King Melchizedek is a priest during the age of the patriarchs, before Levi and his descendants are even born. Priest Melchizedek is most likely in the order of the first-born sons.
Jewish tradition and the early Church Fathers believed that Melchizedek (“king of righteousness”) was the throne name of the first-born son of Noah: Shem. According to Shem’s genealogy, he outlives Abraham, and this would explain the passing on of the blessing from Noah to Shem to Abraham. This may also explain why Saint Paul stresses that Jesus is the first-born of many brethren (Rom 8:29). As God’s eternal first-born son (first-born does not necessarily mean that there are subsequent siblings; an only child, for example, is still a “first-born”), Jesus is the eternal high priest of God.
Whether or not Melchizedek is Shem, it is clear that the Messiah, according to Psalm 110, would be a priest—not a priest of the order of Levi, but of the order of Melchizedek.
Conclusion:
A priest in the order of Aaron or Levi would be a Law Giver. Israel had plenty of those then and now. Our Lord who is our King and high priest came as God’s son to live in the flesh as we do and leave the flesh as we will. He gave us access to the Holy place of temple 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

He offers us Salvation. Amen