The Validity of The Bible

The Bible

Can it be trusted? Is it really from God?

We'll be looking at one unique attribute of the Bible.

Which is:

Almost every miracle in the Bible was done at least twice.

Telling us, "we can prove them by trying to do same today"

1. Miracle of Food Multiplication

Many are aware that Jesus multiplied food in the Bible but,

Did you know?

Elisha was the first person in the Bible to multiply food

2Kings 4:42-44.

Showing us that Jesus trusted God to multiply bread and fish;

Because, He knew that God did the same for Elisha.

2. Miracle of dividing a water body

Moses was the first man in the Bible to achieve such a feat(Exodus 14)

Joshua did same(Joshua 3:14-17)

Elijah trusted God to do same for him and didn't need to struggle(2Kings 2:8)

Elisha saw Elijah do that and believed for the same(2Kings 2:14).

3. Miracle of Walking on water

Jesus knew about the miracles of dividing water bodies

He dared to trust God for something better.

Yes! To walk on water!!

"As the night was ending, Jesus came walking on the sea" Matthew 14:25(NET)

Peter saw Jesus and remembered that "what God can do for one, He can do for all"

Peter said to Him, "Lord, if it is you, order me to come to you on the water" Matthew 14:28(NET)

Jesus said to him "come." Peter got out of the boat and walked on the water and came toward Jesus Matthew 14:29(NET)

4. Miracle of raising the dead

Elijah was the first person in the Bible to achieve this feat(1Kings 17:17-24)

Elisha, who was Elijah's servant saw how Elijah did his and trusted God for same

And raised a dead child(2Kings 4:20-37)

Jesus raised 3people from death

The Widow's son(Luke 7:11-16)

Jarius' daughter (Mark 5:35-43)

Lazarus(John 11)

Peter did same because He saw how Jesus did it(Acts 9:36-41)

Paul did the same(Acts 20:7-12)

Praise God!

Miracles didn't happen more than once in the Bible, by chance.

It's for our learning:

For whatever things were written before, were written for our learning,

That we through the patience and comfort of the Scriptures

Might have hope Romans 15:4(NKJV).

Because it happened then, it can still happen today again.

If ONLY you can dare to believe

All you need is to believe!

"What do you mean, 'if I can'? Jesus asked. Anything is possible if a person believes"

Mark 9:23(NLT).

God Bless You.

Three Definitions of Sin

Many Christians don't recognise that the Bible has three eras in it. The read and try to practice everything they read believing it's all for them. Paul admonished Timothy:

"Be diligent to present yourself approved to God, a worker who doesn't need to be ashamed, correctly teaching the word of truth." 2Timothy 2:15HCSB. 

Showing us, a Christian can WRONGLY teach the Word(as many are doing today). The three eras have different definitions of sins as follows;

1. Before the Law:

"Sin was defined as knowing to do good but refusing to do it."

Therefore, to the one who knows to do good and does not do it, to him it is sin. (James 4:17 LEB)

There was no law given; men had to be a law to themselves. In that period people did what was right in their eyes. People lived based on their morality.

2. Under the Law: 

You shall not do after all the things that we do here this day, every man whatever is right in his own eyes (Deuteronomy 12:8 WEB).

Moses told the Israelites; the days of living based on morality was over; that it was time to live by the Law. Under the Law Sin was defined as 

"The breaking of the law"

Captured in "Everyone who commits sin also breaks the law; sin is the breaking of law." (1John 3:4 HCSB).

3. Under Grace:

"Don't assume that I came to destroy the Law or the Prophets. I did not come to destroy but to fulfill." Matthew 5:17

Isaiah 55:11 explains what it means for God's Word to be fulfilled:

The same thing is true of the words I speak. They will not return to me empty. They make the things happen that I want to happen, and they succeed in doing what I send them to do. (NCV).

Notice that God's Word always returns to God after it is fulfilled.

Glory to God!

When Jesus died the Power behind the law returned to God;

"Jesus cried out with a loud voice, and gave up the spirit. The veil of the temple was torn in two from the top to the bottom." Luke 15:37-38 (WEB).

The law was fulfilled and the power behind the law returned to God.

"Christ ended the law so that everyone who believes in him may be right with God." Romans 10:4(NCV). 

Christ has made us(who believe in Him) righteous. Therefore, we are called to live by faith(Galatians 3:11). 

The new definition of sin for us is:

"Anything not done by faith"

"But the one who doubts is condemned if he eats, because he does not do so from faith, and everything that is not from faith is sin." (Romans 14:23 LEB).

In Galatians 5:6 we are informed our faith must work by love.

Therefore; "Anything not done by faith which works by love is a sin".

 Don't do something because the law says to do so. Do it because it's a manifestation of faith which works by love.

1Timothy 1:9 "knowing this, that the law is not given for a righteous person but for the lawless and rebellious, for the ungodly and sinners,"

You are the just; live by faith!

God Bless You

How To Study The Bible

Reading the Bible and Studying the Bible are two different things. They are both important. A believer must spend ample time reading and also studying.

The more a believer reads his Bible; the easier his study will become.

Each day, a believer must read/listen to the Bible being read(in audio format).

Bible Study Methods:

1. Book by book study:

This is staying on a specific Book of the Bible and trying to find out how the writer intended his readers it to understand it. Also, to find out how those to whom it was written for; understood it.

This is also done to find out the context of the writings so we don't quote out of context.

Example:

Many Pastors/Church leaders ignorantly abuse Romans 2:1

They always quote that verse out of context; when a follower shows up late or is found wanting in his duties.

"Therefore thou art inexcusable, O man...."

but, that's not what that verse is talking about.

Here's the full verse:

"Therefore thou art inexcusable, O man, whosoever thou art that judgest: for wherein thou judgest another, thou condemnest thyself; for thou that judgest doest the same things." (Romans 2:1).

Each Bible Writer had a peculiar way of thinking and way of communication. By studying a Believer will discover the differences in the communication of each Writer.

2. Topical Study:

The Bible is a collection of Canonical writings; but, it is not written in Topical arrangements. A believer will have to study about individual topics, since the Bible isn't arranged that way.

A believer must recognize the 3eras differentiated in the Bible

-before the law

-Under the law

-Under grace

Each topic must be studied with this understanding(Check the topic "Three definitions of sin").

Each era has a different teaching for most topics. It's unfortunate; many Christian leaders mix it all up.

Example:

Before the law, people had to offer sacrifices for their sins(Job 1:5).

Under the law, the High Priest had to offer sacrifices for people's sins(Hebrews 5:1).

Under Grace, "Jesus has washed us from our sins" hence, we no longer have the nature of sin(Revelation 1:5).

3. Character Study:

A believer may love the life of a Bible character; because of the consistency which they displayed in aspects of their lives.

Example:

King David never lost a battle all his life. The only battle they ALMOST lost; was the one he didn't attend(2Samuel 11). That's fascinating! A believer may appreciate that and decide to find out what King David did that made him that way.

Daniel the prophet, was said to be a man with an excellent spirit; which made him preferred above his contemporaries(Daniel 6:3).

In character study, you're trying to find out what made the Bible character such a success in specific aspects of his/her life.

"Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth." (2 Timothy 2:15 KJV).

God Bless you.

The Three Eras

This is one aspect that has raised so many questions; it is imperative that we handle this, as a topic of its own. Without understanding this; the Bible will seem like a Book full of contradictions; being that each Era has a peculiar definition of words.

1. Before the Law:

The Bible clearly defines this period:

"Yet death held sway from Adam to Moses [the Lawgiver], even over those who did not themselves transgress [a positive command] as Adam did. Adam was a type (prefigure) of the One Who was to come [in reverse, the former destructive, the Latter saving]." (Romans 5:14 AMP).

It lasted from Adam till Moses(when the Law came). In this Era; there was no law given, everything was done as it seemed right in people eyes.

"You shall not at all do as we are doing here today-every man doing whatever is right in his own eyes-" (Deuteronomy 12:8 NKJV).

Showing us that righteousness was based on morality. Bible captures the definition of sin in this era as:

"Therefore, to him who knows to do good and does not do it, to him it is sin." (James 4:17 NKJV).

2. Under the Law:

God gave the Laws to the Israelites; they were supposed to observe/obey all the Laws without faulting in anyone.

"'Now therefore, if you will indeed obey My voice and keep My covenant, then you shall be a special treasure to Me above all people; for all the earth is Mine and you shall be to Me a kingdom of priests and a holy nation.' These are the words which you shall speak to the children of Israel." (Exodus 19:5-6 NKJV).

They needed to obey all the Laws before they could become a Special Treasure, Kingdom of Priests and a Holy Nation; failure to obey all the laws and they won't be!

Of course, they couldn't obey and failed to become what God had planned out for them.

1John 3:4 captures what sin was defined as Under the law.

"Whosoever committeth sin transgresseth also the law: for sin is the transgression of the law." (KJV).

Therefore for a man to be said to be righteous under the law, he needed to observe all the law.

"For whosoever keeps the Law [as a] whole but stumbles {and} offends in one [single instance] has become guilty of [breaking] all of it." (James 2:10 AMP).

Also, man related with God by the Name "Yahweh"

I appeared to Abraham, to Isaac, and to Jacob as Elshaddai--'God Almighty'--but I did not reveal my name, Yahweh, to them. Exodus 6:3(NLT)

3. Under Grace:

Jesus Christ declared His mission for the Law;

"Do not think that I came to destroy the Law or the Prophets. I did not come to destroy but to fulfill." (Matthew 5:17).

"The Law and the Prophets" is referring to the Canonical writings which were available when He came(what we know today as the Old Testament). He clearly states "I have come to fulfill them"

What does it mean to fulfill them?

Isaiah 55:11 shows us

"So will the words that come out of my mouth not come back empty-handed. They'll do the work I sent them to do, they'll complete the assignment I gave them. " (TM).

That verse shows us how God's Word operates; after being sent:

i. It must accomplish its assignment

ii. After completing its assignment(being fulfilled) it must return to God.

That's exactly what Jesus did to the Law and the Prophets(what we call the Old Testament).

Question: How did Jesus Fulfill the Law and the Prophets?

When Jesus was crucified on the Cross; something significant happened.

"And Jesus cried out again with a loud voice, and yielded up His spirit. Then, behold,the veil of the temple was torn in two from top to bottom; and the earth quaked, and the rocks were split," (Matthew 27: 50-51 NKJV).

The veil of the temple being torn shows us; that which was in the Holy of holies, which made the Law powerful and active left, and 'of course' returned to God. The dreaded place which only one man(the High Priest) could access just once a year; became an ordinary place, with no power.

Hallelujah!

Truly, the Law was fulfilled:

"For Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to everyone who believes." (Romans 10:4 NKJV).

Under Grace, we don't live by the Law, the Law was an outside force, trying to make men to work/act in a certain way. Under grace, we have been changed from the inside and are supposed to reflect the change on the outside.

The obedience of Christ is credited to us;

"For just as through the disobedience of the one man many were made sinners, so also through the obedience of one man many will be made righteous." (Romans 5:19 NET).

Because Christ obeyed God; we have been declared "a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, His own special people, that we may proclaim the praises of Him who called us out of darkness into His marvellous light" (1Peter 2:9 NKJV).

All we need to do is; believe and confess, to enjoy the benefits of being under grace.

"And since we have the same spirit of faith, according to what is written, "I believed and therefore I spoke," we also believe and therefore speak," (2 Corinthians 4:13 NKJV).

Everything we do should be based on faith in what Christ has done for us; not trying to satisfy the dictates of the Law and Prophets(the Old Testament); by doing so, we would be trying to establish our righteous.

This should be our desire:

"and be found in him, not having a righteousness of my own that comes from the law, but that which is through faith in Christ- the righteousness that comes from God and is by faith." (Philippians 3:9 NIV).

We no longer see relate with God as "Elshaddai" like before the Law,

Neither do we relate with Him as "Yahweh" like under the Law.

He is our Father.

"I have written to you who are God's children because you know the Father...." 1John 2:14 NLT

Truly, we are children of God and have God as our Father.

Send your questions to my email address: emmapyano@yahoo.com .

God Bless You!

Prove All Things

"On the other hand, don't be gullible. Check out everything, and keep only what's good. " (1 Thessalonians 5:21 TM).

In 2Peter 2:1, the Apostle, tells us;

"But there were also false prophets in Israel, just as there will be false teachers among you. They will cleverly teach destructive heresies and even deny the Master who bought them. In this way, they will bring sudden destruction on themselves." (NLT).

A false teacher is different from a fake teacher. A fake teacher is not sent by anyone; he is here for his stomach(to make merchandise of the Gospel). A false teacher is sponsored by hell itself; to subtly deceive and bring believers to hell.

Bible warns us about being deceived:

"And Jesus answered and said unto them, Take heed that no man deceive you. " (Matthew 24:4 KJV).

Apostle Paul warned the Colossian Church:

"I am telling you this so no one will deceive you with well-crafted arguments." (Colossians 2:4 NLT).

Being deceived and believing are similar, the main difference is; being deceived leads to eternal damnation while, believing leads to eternal life.

Pointers to avoid being deceived:

1. Study the Bible for yourself:

When I started studying the Bible, I discovered that most of the popular teachings were wrong. I discovered that most Pastors don't study; but, share what other Pastors preach; without verifying the teaching from the Bible.

Acts of the Apostles, talks about the Berea Christians;

"These were more fair-minded than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness, and searched the Scriptures daily to find out whether these things were so." (Acts 17:11NKJV).

One of the responsibilities of a Pastor: is to train believers , on how to read and understand the Bible, and to ensure they cultivate the habit of reading/studyingthe Bible.

2. Learn to judge people's experiences with the Word of God:

Some Christians really love feeling special and it's not bad; but, Bible warns:

"For I say, through the grace given to me, to everyone who is among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think, but to think soberly, as God has dealt to each one a measure of faith." (Romans 12:3 NKJV).

These are the people who want to influence the way others do things; because, they had an experience(visions, dreams, nightmares, revelations) about Heaven or hell and saw things that are CLEARLY not in the sync with the Bible; yet, when shown what the Bible says about that; they still pridefully insist on what they experienced.

The Bible warns about such people:

"Let no one who delights in humility and the worship of angels pass judgment on you. That person goes on at great lengths about what he has supposedly seen, but he is puffed up with empty notions by his fleshly mind." (Colossians 2:18 NIV).

Be careful of Christians who don't care what the Bible says; but, prefer to share their experiences/testimonies about a Bible topic.

"If we accept [as we do] the testimony of men [if we are willing to take human authority], the testimony of God is greater (of stronger authority), for this is the testimony of God, even the witness which He has borne regarding His Son." (1 John 5:9 AMP).

Don't accept the testimony of men without checking what the Bible teaches about that topic.

Avoid teachings which exalt experiences over what the Bible actually teaches.

3. Bringing in definitions from previous Eras:

The era of Grace is all about FAITH and the works must be prompted by faith, not without faith.

The first church had this problem; where Paul calls some people "false brethren"

"Yet not even Titus who was with me, being a Greek, was compelled to be circumcised; and this occurred because of false brethren secretly brought in (who came in by stealth to spy out our liberty which we have in Christ Jesus, that they might bring us into bondage)," (Galatians 2:3-4 NKJV).

The false brethren came to insist on the Law and almost forced Titus to be circumcised.

That's how some Christians still insist on the Law today; when Christ has fulfilled and ended the Law.

"For Christ is the end of the law, with the result that there is righteousness for everyone who believes." (Romans 10:4 NLT).

Don't live by the Law. even if you observe all the Law; you're still in sin and at risk of Hell.

"...whatever is not from faith is sin." (Romans 14:23).

When you try to be righteous by observing the Law, you are not working by faith; therefore, you're in sin.

"For ignoring the righteousness that comes from God, and seeking instead to establish their own righteousness, they did not submit to God's righteousness." (Romans 10:3).

Submit yourself to God's righteousness; it can only come through walking by faith.

Kindly drop your questions in the comment box or Send it to my email:emmapyano@yahoo.com

God Bless You.

Unlocking The Scriptures

Christians often ask; "I want to read the Bible; where do I start from?"

Here's my story:

I got born again and baptized with the Holy Spirit in the year 1994 , in a charismatic Baptist Church. The only available Bible was my sister's NIV(New International Version). The only parts I enjoyed reading were the story parts of the Bible.

In 1999, I started cultivating the habit of reading the Bible consistently. Even when I didn't understand much; at least, I knew most of the Bible stories.

Thank God, In 2006 for the first time; my understanding popped open and I started understanding the Bible.

I know many Christians are where I used to be(read the Bible but don't understand) if that's you; this article is for you.

The Old Testament part of the Bible was completed 400 years before the birth of Jesus Christ. The Bible tells us about how the Jews were expecting an all knowing man whom they called the Messiah. This Messiah was expected to know all things.

"The woman said to him, "I know that Messiah is coming" (who is called Christ). When he comes, he will explain everything to us." (John 4:25 HCSB).

The next verse, Jesus boldly declared: "I am He, the One speaking to you."

Praise God, Jesus was that all knowing Messiah; who had a mission to come and teach and explain everything to humans.

This definitely means, the Old Testament doesn't contain all truth and still requires further explanation, since someone(the Messiah) was coming to teach and give further explanations.

The Messiah did His job but, had a limitation. The people couldn't understand him because, they were still natural men. We know, "the natural man can't receive the things of the Spirit of God...because they are spiritually discerned". (1Corinthians 2:14).

In John 16:12-13, Jesus told His disciples

"I still have many things to tell you, but you can't bear them now. When the Spirit of truth comes, He will guide you into all the truth..."

The Holy Spirit showed up on the day of Pentecost(Acts 2) and guided them into all the truth, which they couldn't understand before then. These men moved by the Spirit wrote the Epistles.

The entire Bible will be unlocked if you follow these prescriptions:

1. Read and Study the Epistles thrice:

These are letters from mature Christians to growing Christians. The Epistles were written specifically to inform Christians about why they are here, what God(through Christ) has done for them and what kind of life they should live.

By starting with the Epistles; you will easily understand the entire Bible, since the Epistles explain every other part of the Bible.

Follow a book by book approach: taking it chapter to chapter. By doing so, you'll discover that each Chapter has a two lessons.

A central topic: the main discussion and,

A side lesson: writers often deviated from the central topic to side lessons, then, they'd return to their central topic or theme.

The Epistles are the Books from Romans to Jude. They are two types;

Pauline Epistles: written by Apostle Paul to Churches and individuals. Starts from Romans to Philemon.

General Epistles: written by other Apostles to Christians in general. Starts from Hebrews to Jude.

2. Read and Study the Gospels and Acts of the Apostles twice:

By reading the Gospels(Matthew to John) and Acts you'll get to see how the Disciples understood Jesus' teachings. Concerning Baptism; Jesus said to baptize in the Name of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit(Matthew 26:19) and those who heard that; didn't go dipping people three times in the water(representing Father, Son and Holy Spirit); but, dipped people only once and in the Name of Jesus(Acts 8:16, 10:48, 19:5).

The Parables will become really easy to comprehend, if you've already studied the Epistles thrice.

The New Testament didn't begin at Jesus' birth; it started from His resurrection from death. Many of Jesus' teachings were for Old Testament people and a lot of things changed after His resurrection.

Jesus taught two kinds of prayers:

1. The Lord's prayer: this was the first way He taught His disciples to pray until He taught them the second way to pray.

2. Praying in Jesus Name: It's amazing that many Christians still hold unto the Lord's prayer; when the people who were taught it, didn't pray that way after learning this second prayer.

"Until now you have not asked for anything in my name. Ask and you will receive it, so that your joy may be complete." (John 16:24 NET).

Notice, how Jesus starts "Until now..." showing us, they were still praying the Lord's prayer until when He taught them this new prayer.

I love Jesus! Hallelujah!!

3. Read the Old Testament once:

The part labeled "New Testament" in the Bible has explained everything about "the Old Testament" and has given us rules(spiritual principles) used in unravelling the Old Testament. The life people lived in the Old Testament(covenant) is different from the life we live today.

Don't use the Old Testament to counter what the New Testament teaches. Neither should you use the Old Testament to interpret the New Testament. The New Testament should be used in interpreting the Old Testament.

Those who wrote the New Testament books; read the Old Testament and they read that verse you want to use to counter the New Testament. Find out the Spiritual Principles they used to explain the Old Testament.

Don't be selfish with such precious teachings; do well to share on Facebook and Twitter.

Send your questions to emmapyano@yahoo.com

God Bless You.

Hearing God's Voice

"If you want to hear God's Voice run to the altar and kneel down before God and cry to Him"

"If you want your spiritual ears to open, stand up and put your index finger into your ear and close your eyes."

These were the words I heard from several preachers. I had heard so much about hearing God's Voice and really looked forward to the day God would finally speak to me. Pastor after Pastor, would boldly declare: "God spoke to me" or "God says..." I didn't know what His Voice was like, so I saw the Christians who spoke that way as super-Christians or Special.

Like most Christians; I never picked up the Bible to see what it says concerning that. It's easier to accept what others teach than to open the Bible and see for yourself.

What does the Bible really say about hearing God?

1. It is for every believer.

Every believer is a child of God and ought to hear God's Voice.

"Take care not to refuse the one who is speaking! For if they did not escape when they refused the one who warned them on earth, how much less shall we, if we reject the one who warns from heaven?" (Hebrews 12:25 NET).

In the previous verses, we are told where believers are, this verse tells us in that spiritual location where we are; "...the one who is speaking" (present continuous). Thank God the verse doesn't say "...the one who spoke..." neither does it say "...the one who will speak..."

God is speaking today; are you listening?

Jesus as the Shepherd; made a rather important statement

"My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me." (John 10:27 NKJV).

We(the believers) are Jesus' sheep and He is our Shepherd, according to His own Words; every sheep hears His Voice.

2. Decide to hear God's voice:

The Bible offers us tools on what to say and how to say it. Psalms 85:8 gives us something to say about "hearing God's Voice"

"I will hear what God the LORD will speak, For He will speak peace To His people and to His saints; But let them not turn back to folly." (NKJV).

Everything spiritual starts with "saying" and ends with "acting". A believer must make confessions this way "I will hear what God will speak". After such confessions, act in line with what you've been saying; by learning to wait and listen, after praying.

Or, just as you've made out times in the day to pray; make out times in the day to just sit back and listen.

3. Listen to do; not ONLY to know:

There is a verse I think 90% of Christians always quote wrongly that is Hebrews 3:7-8.

"Therefore, as the Holy Spirit says: "Today, if you will hear His voice, do not harden your hearts as in the rebellion, In the day of trial in the wilderness," (Hebrews 3:7-8 NKJV).

Most Christians always quote it as "...if you hear His voice..."

This verse informs us of a mentality to possess when listening. A heart ready to do(to act in line with) what God will say. Don't listen ONLY to know.

Saul, on his way to Damascus, met the Lord and asked "Lord, what do You want me to do?" after the Lord told Him what to do; Saul did exactly what he was told.

Hearing God's Voice is for all, not for select few. Notice, nothing in the above verses talks about opening the spiritual ears as some people purport.

In this post, we haven't gone into; "what people hear".The post is all about helping others who feel less special(like I used to feel), to come out of the complex and start enjoying fellowship with the Father. Where they can speak to the Father and also hear Him speak back to them.

Don't be selfish with such special blessing; share with your friends and loved ones on Facebook and Twitter.

Send your questions to emmapyano@yahoo.com

God Bless You.

How Were The Bible Books Chosen

A Muslim once questioned me; "how many Bibles do you Christians have?"

I thought he was referring to the different versions of the Bible, so I quickly explained that we have one Bible source(the original manuscript written in Hebrew, Aramaic and Greek) from which all the different versions translate to English using their own words. Then he quickly informed me:

"There are two kinds of Bibles: one has 66 Books and the other has 73 Books."

My Pastor hadn't taught me that; so, instead of debate over something I didn't know, I asked for time to study about that.

My search led me to discover; there were so many other books written in the Bible days and, not every Bible character's writings reached the standard(canon) of the Scriptures.

From my study, I define the Bible as;

"a collection of canonical books."

A canonical book is one which measures up to the standard of the Holy Scripture. Canon is an English word derived from the Greek "kanon" which means, "rule", "standard" or "measurement".

Criteria for choosing Bible Books

1. Apostolic or Prophetic authorship:

For a Book to be considered canonical, it had to be written by a recognised Prophet or Apostle.

Peter the Apostle had this to say:

"Because of that experience, we have even greater confidence in the message proclaimed by the prophets. You must pay close attention to what they wrote, for their words are like a lamp shining in a dark place--until the Day dawns, and Christ the Morning Star shines in your hearts. Above all, you must realize that no prophecy in Scripture ever came from the prophet's own understanding, or from human initiative. No, those prophets were moved by the Holy Spirit, and they spoke from God." (2 Peter 1: 19-21 NLT).

2. Associates of Apostles:

This is another criterion used; as Luke(the author of Luke and Acts) was never referred to as an Apostle(in the Bible) but, was in a special relationship with Apostle Paul. Therefore, his writings are canonical because he was an associate of Apostle Paul.

3. Aligning with already ascertained canonical books:

For a book to be considered canonical, it must agree with already accepted canonical books, not a complete deviation from what was already on ground. This explains why the Bible agrees with itself. The latter books always have connections to, and agreements with the older books.

4. Acceptance:

It must be accepted by the people of God. Since the Spirit of Truth indwells the believers: the Holy Spirit guides the believers in the way of truth by helping us recognise what's true and what's not. Like several others, I've gone through so many writings; which 'supposedly' claim canonical status, they always fall short in one way or the other.

Apocrypha:

Primarily refers to the Books in the Old Testament added by the Roman Catholic Church; which are rejected by the Hebrew Scripture and the Protestant Bible(as seen in the yellow cover Good News Bible).

The books which fall short of the canon of Scriptures are also termed apocrypha or apocryphal.

As Christians, we must learn to defend our faith. Knowing this will help you defend your faith, this is also part of our duties as Christians:

"They preach because they love me, for they know I have been appointed to defend the Good News." (Philippians 1:16 NLT).

Don't be selfish, share with your friends and family members on Facebook and Twitter.

God Bless You.

Understanding the Epistles 2

I started playing Piano in Church, about twenty years ago. Over the years; I've had the privilege of being in several christian denominations and listening to so many Preachers. The Message that always made me scared, was the message about "The end time" or "Rapture".

Most Pastors always emphasized on the fact; "no one knows the day or hour that Jesus would come". Meaning it would take us UNAWARES.

I was shocked when I finally studied 1Thessalonians 5; and I saw that, that didn't apply to Believers.

2. Learning to study in context:

As already asserted in previous publications; the Epistles explain the other parts of the Bible.

Points to help:

i. Never quote half a verse:

Quoting half a verse could alter the meaning of the verse. I've seen someone preach about "God so loved the world." and didn't complete the entire verse and said "that verse(John 3:16) tells us, God will always love the world and since He loves the world, He will never punish anyone because God is full of love."

Reading the whole verse shows us that God loves the world(the human race) and made a way of escape; but, only for those who believe in Jesus.

ii. Don't assume:

Because of how we read the Bible or hear the Bible being taught; sometimes, we could remember a verse and don't know how it fits into the  chapter where it was written and could assume we know what it means and how it was used.

Example: I've seen Christians who always shout "Holy Ghost fire" (whatever that means); because Elijah called down fire to consume soldiers(2Kings 1:9-14 ). When the Bible tells us in Luke 9:54-56 , Jesus stopped His disciples(James and John) from calling down fire from Heaven. Another believer once said to me "I shout Holy Ghost fire because Bible says "Our God is a consuming fire"."

That's Hebrews 12:29 and the context is referring to how God will judge those who quit Christianity; which doesn't apply to destroying those who oppose us.

iii. Don't look for another verse to counter a verse you don't understand:

I've always loved studying with/listening to other Christians and I've noticed that most Christians always evade verses that counter their views by quoting other verses. It's best to understand what a verse means; instead of evading it.

iv. Believers are always differentiated from unbelievers:

1Corinthians 6: 9-10

"Do you not know that the unrighteous will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived! The sexually immoral, idolaters, adulterers, passive homosexual partners, practicing homosexuals, thieves, the greedy, drunkards, the verbally abusive, and swindlers will not inherit the kingdom of God."

That's where many Preachers always stop, when they want to judge/condemn Christians who practice any of the above listed acts. Not knowing, the solution lies in the next verse; which many seldom get to:

"Some of you once lived this way. But you were washed, you were sanctified, you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and by the Spirit of our God." (1 Corinthians 6:11 NET).

Hallelujah! That's the solution!! He puts them in faith.

Also Romans 8:6-8 is for the human race;

"The mind of sinful man is death, but the mind controlled by the Spirit is life and peace; the sinful mind is hostile to God. It does not submit to God's law, nor can it do so. Those controlled by the sinful nature cannot please God." (NIV).

But, verse 9 is for Christians:

"You, however, are controlled not by the sinful nature but by the Spirit, if the Spirit of God lives in you. And if anyone does not have the Spirit of Christ, he does not belong to Christ.

Again, he doesn't leave them in doubt of their stand; he brings them into faith and makes them sure of their stand in Christ.

Eisegesis and Exegesis are two important words every Bible student must know and understand.

Exegesis is studying in/following the context. Trying to find out what the writers meant and how the readers understood. It involves careful objective analysis. Here, every part of the book is important and taken into consideration, the text is allowed to speak for itself and the reader does not inject his ideas into it.

In Eisegesis, the reader chooses to ignore the details but, picks out some points that supports what he has in mind. The reader injects his ideas into the text; it is based on a subjective, non-analytic reading.

Example: a Preacher preaching about Rapture could decide to stick to Matthew 24:36

"No one knows about that day or hour, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father." (NIV).

And may choose to support that with 1Thessalonians 5:1-3

"Now, brothers, about times and dates we do not need to write to you, for you know very well that the day of the Lord will come like a thief in the night. While people are saying, "Peace and safety", destruction will come on them suddenly, as labour pains on a pregnant woman, and they will not escape." (NIV)

While ignoring 1Thessalonians 5:4-11 which shows us a spiritual principle: "Believers are never left in confusion or doubt; but, are always put in FAITH"

NOTE: Don't let anyone take you out of FAITH into DOUBT or confusion(where you become unsure of your stand in Christ).

We are just who are called to live by faith(Romans 1:17, Galatians 3:11, Hebrews 10:38); stay in faith. Learning to study in context is the solution.

God Bless You!

Understanding the Epistles

I'll never forget my first study of the first epistle of John, I ended up so confused.

In 1John 1:8-10, he includes himself in the 'sinning gang' by using the word "we":

"If we claim to be without sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness. If we claim we have not sinned, we make him out to be a liar and his word has no place in our lives." (1 John 1:10 NIV)

As if that wasn't enough, he then told little children(Young Christians) not to sin:

"My dear children, I write this to you so that you will not sin..." 1John 2:1 (NIV)

Finally, in 1John 3:9, he says "a believer cannot sin"

I was stuck, for months, running into years; searching for answers. Thank God understanding came!

Here are truths about the Epistles I've learnt along the way:

1. It recognizes different stages in Christianity:

The baby stage:

Where the believer just got born again and doesn't look(act) or feel different from the unbelievers.

The first recommendation for this stage is to be kept under a Governor(representing spiritual authority and one who is already living the Christian life) and a Teacher(one who teaches).

"Now I say, That the heir, as long as he is a child, differeth nothing from a servant, though he be lord of all; but is under tutors and governors until the time appointed of the father." (Galatians 4:1-2 KJV).

Go for the sincere milk as recommended in 1Peter 2:2, "Like newborn babies, crave pure spiritual milk, so that by it you may grow up in your salvation," (1 Peter 2:2 NIV).

Spiritual adolescence:

This is when the Christian has grown and understood some spiritual principles and is working towards being consistent in his Christian living. The Christian life requires consistency and it takes a conscious effort to build that in. Jesus said,

"Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine; no more can ye, except ye abide in me. " (John 15:4 KJV).

A believer has got to learn to how to be consistent in:

Prayer, Fasting, Studying the Bible, Evangelism and many others.

Coming from not doing any of those, to building those in, requires self-discipline; this is why we are called disciples. Without self-discipline a believer will never achieve any of those.

In the Bible, Jesus trained His disciples to pray and also to pray for long too.

When He told them to kneel down and pray right behind him. Then, after one hour He'd check on them:

"Then he said to them, "My soul is overwhelmed with sorrow to the point of death. Stay here and keep watch with me". Going a little farther, he fell with his face to the ground and prayed, "My Father, if it is possible, may this cup be taken from me. Yet not as I will, but as you will". Then he returned to his disciples and found them sleeping. "Could you men not keep watch with me for one hour?" he asked Peter." (Matthew 26: 38-40 NIV).

Without these basic disciplines being mastered, a believer won't reach maturity.

The spiritual man:

He doesn't try to act a certain way, he has been around for a while and finally doesn't need to "try to". He has become God's dream and is helping others to grow too. It's now natural for him since he has practiced for a while.

The Epistles contain no instructions for this level; since the writers are on this level: they always used the word "we" when referring to this level; to show that the writers are also part of this level and so can't instruct those who are on the same level as themselves.

"Hereby perceive we the love of God, because he laid down his life for us: and we ought to lay down our lives for the brethren." (1 John 3:16 KJV).

He doesn't instruct them to do that; but, sounds like he is talking to a group that he is a part of.

When reading the Epistles recognize this fact and study to determine which group that  message is referring to; or you may end up as confused as I used to be.

Is/are there any POSITIVE difference/differences between your life today and yesterday? What new thing have you added to your faith?

Amazingly, your present level doesn't matter; all that counts is; are you making progress?

God Bless You!