Bible Answers to Life's Tough Questions
Discover the beauty of faith and explore the diverse world of faith with the Light of the World.
SECTION FIVE: Another Jesus, Good Go to Heaven, Destination Hell, Pretend Christian & Blind Spots, Monotheism, Head vs. Heart, Is it God's Fault, Is the Bible Boring, Free in Life, God isn't a Man, Who's
Good Enough, Did Jesus Exist
View Sections 6-8 Topics:
π6 γ π7 γ π8 γ
Some people and world religions say there is another Jesus Christ. However, these are considered counterfeit definitions of Jesus, in contrast to the attributes of God and Jesus Christ described in the Bible.
Some religions like Mormonism, Jehovah's Witnesses and Islam, three of the largest for this topic, believe Jesus was a created being, not God incarnate, not bodily crucified, and believe He was not bodily (physically) risen from the dead three days later.
The majority of adherents of the world religions of Judaism, Islam, Mormonism, JW Watchtower, Buddhism, Hinduism, Sikhism, and Baha'i hold that Jesus Christ existed either directly or indirectly in their teachings, doctrine, holy books, etc.; either as a messenger, a prophet, a holy man or saint, an enlightened human who reincarnated, or as a manifestation of "a" god of many gods. In contrast, the Jesus mentioned in the Bible is not the Jesus that all of these faiths listed above have in mind.
Jesus Christ of Nazareth is the only person and name who has ever performed authentic healings, fulfilled prophesies, and raised people from the dead. No one else destroyed the sting of sin, illness, death, and evil, and then establish His eternal kingdom. Since Christ and His splendor will be the Light that brightens the earth, the sun won't be necessary. Other religions, such as Islam, Jehovah's Witnesses, Mormonism, and other cults, are essentially distinct from Christianity. This is because these religions preach a different gospel, which redefines and warps the essence of Christ. Additionally, the cults define Christ's resurrection and crucifixion differently.
The Bible is absolutely clear, salvation is found only through the eternal Jesus Christ (The Messiah).
And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth. Matthew 28:18
The Father [God] loveth the Son, and hath given all things into his hand. John 3:35
As thou hast given him power over all flesh, that he should give eternal life to as many as thou hast given him. And this is life eternal, that they might know that the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent. I have glorified thee on the earth: I have finished the work which thou gave me to do. And now, O Father, glorify thou me with thine own self with the glory which I had with thee before the world was. John 17:2
Jesus said, βΒ·I tell you the truth [Truly, truly I say to you], the person who does not enter the Β·sheepfold [sheep pen] by the Β·door [gate], but climbs in some other way, is a thief and a robber. John 10:10 EXB (the thief/robber stands for those who seek another way and false faiths like Islam, Mormonism and Jehovah's Witnesses Watchtower that would lead them astray).
And He has made my mouth like a sharp sword; in the shadow of His hand has He hid me and made me a polished arrow; in His quiver has He kept me close and concealed me. Isaiah 49:2
For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. Hebrews 4:12
And he arose, and rebuked the wind, and said unto the sea, Peace, be still. And the wind ceased, and there was a great calm. And he said unto them, Why are ye so fearful? how is it that ye have no faith? And they feared exceedingly, and said one to another, What manner of man is this, that even the wind and the sea obey him? Mark 4:39..
For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace. Isaiah 9:6
Kings take their stands. Rulers make plans together against Yahweh and against his Mashiach by saying, βLetβs break apart their chains and shake off their ropes.β Psalm 2:2 [NOG version]
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I will declare the decree: the Lord hath said unto me, Thou art my Son; this day have I begotten thee. Psalm 2:7
I will declare the chok (decree): Hashem hath said unto me, Thou art Beni (My Son, i.e. Ben HaElohim Moshiach); HaYom (today) I have begotten thee. Psalm 2:7 [OJB version]
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Kiss the Son, lest he be angry, and ye perish from the way, when his wrath is kindled but a little. Blessed are all they that put their trust in him. Psalm 2:12
Kiss the Bar (Ben, Son), lest he be angry, and ye perish from the Derech, for his wrath can flare up in a moment. Ashrei are all they that take refuge in him [Moshiach]. Psalm 2:12 [OJB version]
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Who has ascended into heaven, or descended?
Who has gathered the wind in His fists?
Who has bound the waters in a garment?
Who has established all the ends of the earth?
What is His name, and what is His Sonβs name,
If you know?
Every word of God is pure;
He is a shield to those who put their trust in Him. Proverbs 30:4,5
I am He that liveth, and was dead; and, behold, I am alive for evermore, Amen; and have the keys of hell and of death. Revelation 1:18
And he [Jesus] was clothed with a vesture dipped in blood: and his name is called The Word of God. And the armies which were in heaven followed him upon white horses, clothed in fine linen, white and clean. And out of his mouth goeth a sharp sword, that with it he should smite the nations: and he shall rule them with a rod of iron: and he treadeth the winepress of the fierceness and wrath of Almighty God. And he hath on his vesture and on his thigh a name written, King Of Kings, And Lord Of Lords. Revelation 19:13..
When someone comes to you telling about another Yeshua [Jesus] whom we didnβt tell you about, youβre willing to put up with it. When you receive a spirit that is different from the Spirit you received earlier, youβre also willing to put up with that. When someone tells you good news that is different from the Good News you already accepted, youβre willing to put up with that too. 2 Corinthians 11:4 (NOG)
Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world. Hereby know ye the Spirit of God: Every spirit that confesseth that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is of God: And every spirit that confesseth not that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is not of God: and this is that spirit of antichrist, whereof ye have heard that it should come; and even now already is it in the world. 1 John 4:1..
I marvel that you are so soon removed from him that called you into the grace of Christ unto another gospel:
Which is not another; but there be some that trouble you, and would pervert the gospel of Christ. But though we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel unto you than that which we have preached unto you, let him be accursed. As we said before, so say I now again, if any man preach any other gospel unto you than that ye have received, let him be accursed. Galatians 1:6..
Why would good people go to hell?
This begins with Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden. They both represented humanity and our freedom to make choices. God didn't choose to make robots to automatically love Him back. He desires true, lasting love, not forced love.
Adam and Eve's disobedience to their Creator with the fruit on the tree was the selection they made. The results and consequences; is no longer walking with God in the Garden in close relationship, the effect and decay of the creation and living organisms around them, becoming spiritually dead, and no longer having eternal bodies due to their sin.
But there is a great difference between Adamβs sin and Godβs gracious gift. For the sin of this one man, Adam, brought death to many. But even greater is Godβs wonderful grace and his gift of forgiveness to many through this other man, Jesus Christ. Romans 5
We need to comprehend: God is completely perfect. Any of our sins, even one transgression, even within our thoughts, is against a Holy Creator that has no sin, and we are breaking His standard of righteousness.
However, He first loved us, and this loving God rescues humanity, which is imperfect and unholy, by offering us the free gift of forgiveness. By confessing our sins through Jesus Christ and making Him Lord of your life, He sends His Holy Spirit to dwell in our spirit.
This again gives us eternal life and restores our soul to being spiritually alive again. This is where the Bible refers to a person being born-again. "Marvel not that I said unto thee, you must be born again." John 3:7 This born again phrase is a spiritual and soul rebirth, not physical, though we will eventually have new bodies.
In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump: for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed. For this corruptible must put on incorruption, and this mortal must put on immortality. 1 Corinthians 15:52..
According to the Christian faith which was established from the Bible: being saved and entering heaven is due solely to the Lord's kindness, grace, and His crucifixion. We are justified and righteous in His eyes. We are not justified and saved on us earning justification.
For by grace are you saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast. Ephesians 2:8
Outside of Christianity, the majority of world faiths, including Mormonism; hold that if I live a loving, kind and caring life and I am a decent person, I will please the God or gods and get to heaven.
For some, mankind that has created the philosophy of entering heaven by good merit, this determining your entire existence β you could think that if I firmly believe in God, lead a decent life, and practice the highest moral standards, this should be enough to get me into paradise. However, God and His Word say that this is untrue. The demons and Satan both acknowledge the existence of God. They won't enter heaven. According to the Bible, the pious Pharisees of the Jewish law attempted to be exceedingly moral and devout individuals but Jesus rebuked them, and they were not saved. Instead, we must believe in, follow and submit to Jesus Christ. He is the only Mediator and salvation, the truth and the only path to heaven is through Him.
People must seek, pray and worship only the Father and Jesus Christ according to the Bible's accurate definition and traits of Him. You can't follow and elevate someone else that only has the name Jesus, but has different traits, otherwise your addressing a counterfeit; reaching for the wrong God and wrong Savior.
For whosoever shall keep the whole law, and yet offend in one point, he is guilty of all. James 2:10
You cannot be saved by doing good. A person's good character does not save you. Our redemption and salvation are complete only because of what Jesus accomplished on the cross and His gift.
When it comes to good works, it appears to be more about the church dogma, religion and traditions, like many Catholics and LDS Mormons do in their practices. Instead of fully having a relationship with Jesus Christ, with His mercy, and His Word.
Jesus said to him: "I am the Way the Truth and the Life. No one comes to the Father except through Me." John 14:6 (the Bible)
Jesus Christ didn't say, with Mormonism LDS mindset inserted for example purposes:
GOOD WORKS is the way, the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through EARNING YOUR way.
Or a couple more examples:
For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord. Romans 6:23 (Bible)
Jesus also did not say:
For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of DOING GOOD WORKS is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.
They are all gone aside, they are all together become filthy: there is none that does good, no, not one. Psalm 14:3 (Bible)
Another example of what God did not say:
They are all gone aside, they are all together become filthy: there is none that does good, no, not one. [WITH THE EXCEPTION OF PEOPLE BELIEVING THEY CAN BE GOOD ENOUGH TO PLEASE GOD].
God doesn't send a person to hell without first, the person's desire to be out of His presence, away from the one that created them. God first loved us by making us and later the opportunity to redeem our life of pride, rebellion, sinful nature, against a Holy and perfect Creator. He gives us the gift of salvation, if we respond with a true heart of going to Him and confessing our sins, and following Jesus Christ. We choose to believe and be His disciple, or reject Jesus our Maker and Savior and go to a place called hell.
More coming soon.
Many have had the situation where we stop attending church due to our wordly and past sinful baggage. We drop it all at the door, then enter in with a fake smile and a mask to cover our real self. Then, becoming who we really are when leaving the church. We slip back into our sinful life struggles due to not bringing submitting all of self to God. We are not fully surrendering to Christ.
How can a doctor help you if you hold back what youβre feeling? How can he possibly give an accurate diagnosis or treatment if you hold back your symptoms from him?
We need to submit ourselves to the Lord fully, giving Jesus Christ control over all areas of your life so that He may have the opportunities to heal you from what your struggling with, with His long-term peace, hope and joy.
Does going to a church make you saved or a Christian?
Going to church may lead you in the right direction and ultimately bring you to saving faith in Jesus Christ. However, attending church in itself doesn't automatically make you saved and enter heaven. Going to church doesn't make you a Christian either.
Your current church or the one you attended in the past may be failing to reflect Jesus in a number of ways, such as gossiping or alienation. Instead, the Holy Spirit's fruitsβlove and kindness. But Jesus Christ is not the physical church. If the church has let you down in some way, you might want to turn away from Jesus and the church, but you shouldn't do that. The real church is not a physical establishment. The genuine church consists of followers (the sheep) of Jesus Christ who are obedient to Him and His Holy Spirit.
How do you really get saved from your sins?
How do you become a genuine Christian?
What are Christian blind spots and how to resolve them?
There are the common blind spots all humans have as unbelievers at one time. One of the primary important ones is being blinded by our sinful nature to the Lord's Light and Good News of Salvation. The second, potentially equal, is us being blinded by Satan's dozens of deceptive tactics and darkness in order to keep us from seeing the Lord's Light and marvelous plan for our lives.
In contrast, the Christian blind spots are right in front of us, areas we don't yet recognize, or sin we keep in an off-limits room of our hearts and minds that we may nurture. We don't necessarily desire to have the Lord access this room to restore it at the moment.
More coming soon
Monotheism is the belief in one God or deity, while polytheism is the belief in multiple gods or deities. Many of the world's major religions, such as Judaism, Christianity, and Islam, are monotheistic, believing in one God, while others, such as Hinduism and ancient Greek and Roman religions, are polytheistic, the belief in many gods, even to the point of hundreds or thousands of God's.
In the Christian faith, there is only one Almighty God, Maker of heaven and earth. Despite the Muslims confusion on the attributes of the God of the Bible, Him being triune in one essence. Christians still believe in one God and no other God, besides Him. Jesus Christ (the Son) has always existed outside of time. Jesus is not a created being.
More coming soon.
You may read more on attributes of Jesus Christ in our "Hello, I Am God" page.
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We often would like to point the finger at God and blame Him for our own sinful consequences, actions or the lack of. People as a community in general or as an individual want to blame God for disease, cancer, trauma, accidents, and evil world events.
Most of what occurs involving injury and death is indeed our actions of risk, sin, disobedience, pride, selfishness, and certain evil leaders in history.
More coming soon
Some say the Bible is boring. These same ones often are the ones that also haven't been reading much of the Bible or some may even be detractors, attempting to find any excuse they can to not follow their Maker, as previously mentioned in Section 4 of FAQ.
The Bible is full of exploration, trials, personal challenges, historically documented world events, prophecies, prophecy fulfillment, life and wisdom guidance, and how to fight the dark spiritual world. In addition, the subjects of science (not the terminology), archeology, geography, history world events and much more.
Starting with Genesis chapter one of the Bible: the triune Creator that has always existed outside of time, the self-sufficient Father, Son and Holy Spirit in communion with each other.
Then, the science, adventure and the beginning of time, space and matter begins to develop. All life forms are created perfect, without sin, disease, corruption and death, made in the Creator's plan to be eternal and immortal. This in itself is not boring, and we haven't reached the next book of the 66 compilation of books in the Bible inspired by the Holy Spirit of God.
More coming soon
There are many items free in our lives, like food samples at a grocery store, and at the bank, such as a pen or lollipop is free. However, these things are paid for by you through store product purchases, or another person using bank fees, interest from loans, and other sources. There are a lot of other things in life that are free, such as presents that are given or paid for by others, and occasionally a free giveaway prize.
But there is also the Bible's description of the free gift of salvation. We absolutely cannot earn this salvation and eternal life through our good deeds, nor can anybody else provide it to us. Only the God-incarnate Jesus Christ and the sin debt for which He paid the price on the cross can provide you this unique gift for your afterlife.
You may decide to try to appease God in more agreeable ways, including your family's religious customs, such as Judaism, Islam, or Catholicism, and the idea that we must do something to merit our salvation. However, according to the entirety of the Bible's message, religious customs, mantras, sacraments, penance, and rituals are unacceptable. God's plan of salvationβJesus Christ the Messiah, the Mediator, and His one-time, flawless holy sacrificeβalong with His torture, crucifixion, and death on the crossβis what is acceptable for our sin due. His resurrection from the dead three days later, gives us this redemption of our soul. In the event that we believe in Jesus Christ and follow him as our Savior and equally as our Lord, He will raise us from the grave as well, if we truly follow Him now. We are required to be His authentic disciple and follow His Word, His light, wisdom and absolute truth, the Bible.
The concept of a free gift is in contrast to the man-made assumption that salvation is somehow acquired by good acts, purchased with wealth, tithing, or maybe following a set of religious church dogma and laws.
For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men.. Titus 2:11
For by grace are you saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Ephesians 2:8
For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord. Romans 6:23
Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved. Acts 4:12
But not as the offence, so also is the free gift. For if through the offence of one many be dead, much more the grace of God, and the gift by grace, which is by one man, Jesus Christ, hath abounded unto many. Romans 5:15
Jesus answered and said unto her, If thou knewest the gift of God, and who it is that saith to thee, Give me to drink; thou wouldest have asked of him, and he would have given thee living water [Spiritual water and salvation]. John 4:10
Jesus said unto her, I am the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live. [eternal life for our soul]: John 11:25
'God is Not a man, and He cannot be one'
Muslims frequently invoke these four scriptures below to support their claim that God is incapable of becoming human. But as God, He is Spirit and, He the Son, momentarily took on human form in Jesus Christ the Messiah to serve as the ideal one-time, holy sacrifice for humanity.
And also the Strength of Israel will not lie nor repent: for he is not a man, that he should repent. 1 Samuel 15:29
For he is not a man, as I am, that I should answer him, and we should come together in judgment. Job 9:32
I will not execute the fierceness of mine anger, I will not return to destroy Ephraim: for I am God, and not man; the Holy One in the midst of thee: and I will not enter into the city. Hosea 11:9
God is not a man, that he should lie; neither the son of man, that he should repent: hath he said, and shall he not do it? or hath he spoken, and shall he not make it good? Numbers 23:19 (this needs to be in context of the passage, what He means by man).
According to the correct interpretation of the verse and chapter as a whole, rather than extrapolating what you want it to imply, it is true that He is not a "son of man" who needs to turn from his sins. He is, in fact, "The Son" of man, which has a double meaning, which is a human being; born of a woman, and a heavenly eternal One.
For Muslims (Islam), and Jews in (Judaism) they both reference this verse from the Bible for an argument:
G-d in heaven didn't turn himself in to the "Son" to enter Earth, He already existed with the Father God eternally.
Is it possible for the Islamic AllΔh (defined as God) to become a Man?...
Yes, the Creator of the Universe made all the planets and all life forms. Itβs most definitely possible for Allah to become a man, (God incarnate). Due to Allah not being limited, according to the Islamic Qur'an:
"Allah [God] makes the impossible possible.β Qur'an Surah 26.63.
God makes the impossible possible, except for coming down out of Heaven (His dwelling place) and becoming a man?
There is nothing impossible with God. Which, for this passage, is actually in agreement with Christianity, in several passages; alongside the book of Matthew and Luke in the Bible. To be clear, we at LightAfterglow ministry do not support Islam in any form. God saying nothing is impossible; this was already revealed 500 years before the founder of Islam Mohammed claimed this statement or came in to existence as a Muslim religion. Islam hijacked numerous names and ideas from the Bible and made modifications and distortions to the definition of core Bible beliefs and attributes of Jesus Christ.
Is any thing too hard for the Lord? At the time appointed I will return unto thee, according to the time of life, and Sarah shall have a son. Genesis 18:14
[Isa in Arabic is Jesus] Jesus declared, "with God all things are possibleβ Matthew 19:26
And he said, The things which are impossible with men are possible with God. Luke 18:27
Allah in Arabic is defined as God in English, which is essentially a generalized title. However, the one God of Christianity, His name in the Bible is (YHWH) Yahweh. He is the KING of kings and LORD of Lords, the "I AM". The one and only God, and no other besides Him.
He the Father (I AM), also calls Jesus Christ God, in Psalm 45 and repeated in Hebrews chapter 1. Jesus is the I AM as stated in the book of Revelation and He says; I Am, the Way, the Truth and the Life, with numerous of other 'I Am' claims.
Both the Father and Son, are the I AM, Alpha and Omega. However, as stated earlier, there still remains to be only one God in the Bible and Christian faith. Not three gods as some falsely use as a debate topic with Christians on the Trinity (triune in eternal fellowship and communion with one another).
The Bible (Injil, as referred to the Bible from Muslims) explains how God (Allah or ΚΌAlΔhΔ in Aramaic) already became human:
In the beginning was the Word [Yeshua-Jesus], and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. The same was in the beginning with God. All things were made by him; and without him was not any thing made that was made. John 1:1 (John 1:14 & Revelation 19:13, Jesus is the Word).
Jesus [Isa or Yasu in Muslim Arabic], who, though he was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, but emptied himself, by taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of menβ Philippians 2:5.
If G-d created everything, then He can do anything. He can temporarily become man, due to Jesus (Yeshua) already being in heaven before the Earth was created, triune in fellowship, agreement and communion with the Father and Spirit.
G-d in heaven didn't turn himself in to Jesus (the Son) to enter earth, He already existed with the Father eternally.
For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace. Isaiah 9:6
God, who at various times and in divers manners spake in time past unto the fathers by the prophets, has in these last days spoken unto us by his Son, whom he hath appointed heir of all things, by whom also he made the worlds; Who being the brightness of his glory, and the express image of his person, and upholding all things by the word of his power, when he had by himself purged our sins, sat down on the right hand of the Majesty on high: Hebrews 1:1..
What is man that You remember him,
And the son of man that You care for him? Yet You have made him a little lower than the angels ,[positionally in rank], and You crown him with glory and Majesty! You make him to rule over the works of Your hands;
You have put all things under his feet.
Psalm 8:4-6
It says that God made them βrulers over all thingsβ; this clearly includes everything. We do not, however, see human beings ruling over all things now. But we do see Jesus, who for a little while was made lower than the angels, so that through God's grace he should die for everyone. We see him now crowned with glory and honor because of the death he suffered. Hebrews 2:8..
G-d temporarily appearing as a man in the Old Testament (Torah):
And the Lord appeared unto him in the plains of Mamre: and he sat in the tent door in the heat of the day; And he lift up his eyes and looked, and, lo, three men stood by him: and when he saw them, he ran to meet them from the tent door, and bowed himself toward the ground, and said, My Lord, if now I have found favour in thy sight, pass not away, I pray thee, from thy servant. Genesis 18:1.. (at least one of the triune Godhead was present as a man)
And he said, Thy name shall no longer be called Jacob, but Israel; for thou hast fought with God and with men, and hast prevailed. And Jacob asked him and said, Tell me, I pray thee, thy name. And he said, Why dost thou ask after my name? And he blessed him there. And Jacob called the name of the place Peniel; for I have seen God face to face, and my soul was saved. Genesis 32:28..
Jesus said unto them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Before Abraham was, I AM. John 8:58
Jesus Christ sometimes referred to Himself by the divine name "I Am" and was understood by His followers to be both human and divine. Simultaneously being God the Father in heaven and human form temporarily on Earth, the God-man, "hypostatic union."
And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth. John 1:14
And now, O Father, glorify thou me with thine own self with the glory which I had with thee before the world was. John 17:5
Father, I will that they also, whom thou hast given me, be with me where I am; that they may behold my glory, which thou hast given me: for thou lovedst me before the foundation of the world. John 17:24
Who is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of every creature: For by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by him, and for him: And he is before all things, and by him all things consist. Colossians 1:15..
Yet for us there is one God, the Father, from whom are all things and we exist for Him, and one Lord, Jesus Christ, by whom are all things, and we exist through Him. 1 Corinthians 8:6
For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation to all men, instructing us that, denying ungodliness and worldly desires, we should live sensibly, righteously, and godly in the present age, looking for the blessed hope and the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ, who gave Himself for us that He might redeem us from all lawlessness, and purify for Himself a people for His own possession, zealous for good works. Titus 2:11..
Simon Peter, a servant and an apostle of Jesus Christ, to them that have obtained like precious faith with us through the righteousness of God and our Saviour Jesus Christ: 2 Peter 1:1
Jesus' humanity is emphasized in the New Testament, which highlights His death, suffering, and temptations as crucial to his function as a Savior. Because of his humanity, He is able to sympathize with human suffering and make a sacrifice to atone for sin.
For the 'Son of man' shall come in the glory of his Father with his angels; and then he shall reward every man according to his works. Matthew 16:27
And Jesus said unto them, Verily I say unto you, That ye which have followed me, in the regeneration when the 'Son of man' shall sit in the throne of his glory, ye also shall sit upon twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel. Matthew 19:28
God wasn't a man in the book of Job and Hosea time period, and this was a comparison between God and man.
You are my witnesses, saith the Lord, and my servant whom I have chosen: that you may know and believe me, and understand that I am he: before me there was no God formed, neither shall there be after me. I, even I, am the Lord; and beside me there is no saviour. Isaiah 43:10..
For I am the Lord, I change not; therefore ye sons of Jacob are not consumed. Malachi 3:6
Correct, no other formed before or after. The Father and the Son is Savior in the Old Testament and New Testament. If you accept Jesus as God and Him being in existence with the Father eternally, there is no issue or misunderstanding. There is no God before or after as described in the passage.
"I am the Lord, I change not" is not implying His incarnation through Jesus Christ. It is however, speaking about Him not changing on His decisions. There's no need for Him to change His mind, as He is all-knowing and views the end from the beginning of time. God is unchanging in His perfect promises and His attributes remains the same in Jesus physically, including His love mercy and power.
We need to take into consideration, the one and only God can do anything, "God-Allah" as Muslims refer to Him as.
And, behold, thy cousin Elisabeth, she hath also conceived a son in her old age: and this is the sixth month with her, who was called barren. For with God nothing shall be impossible. Luke 1:36..
Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning. James 1:17
Jesus Christ's grace, mercy and truth shall set you free. Keeping the old covenant law doesnβt set you free. Doing good works and attempting to bypass what He did on the cross with our merit or strictly with water baptism doesn't achieve salvation.
The gift of salvation through the Mediator to the Father is the only path that gives us entrance to heaven and everlasting life. The Bible says Jesus Christ is this Mediator and the only one there is, not religious rituals and not Mary as mediatrix intercessor. Mary is an incredible chosen Proverbs 31 woman, as His earthly blessed virgin mother. However, she is human and was seeking salvation from Jesus her Savior. Like the Bible says in these passages:
And Mary said: Behold the handmaid of the Lord; be it unto me according to thy word.. Luke 1:38
And Mary said, my soul does magnify [exalt] the Lord, and my spirit hath rejoiced in God my Savior. For he has regarded the low estate of his handmaiden [servant].. Luke 1:46..
For there is not a just man upon earth, that doeth good, and sinneth not. Ecclesiastes 7:20
If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. 1 John 1:8
Wherefore, as by one man sin entered into the world, and death by sin; and so death passed upon all men, for that all have sinned: Romans 5:12
For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God; being justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus. Romans 3:23..
Jesus Christ is both the eternal Son of God and equally God in the triune. Jesus paid the debt on the cross as the perfect one-time sacrifice for our sins. However, we need to have belief in him and his bodily resurrection from the dead, with faith, and submit to Him, asking Him for forgiveness of all our sins, in order to have eternal life.
For by grace are you saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God. Ephesians 2:8
This then is the message which we have heard of him, and declare unto you, that God is light, and in him is no darkness at all. If we say that we have fellowship with him, and walk in darkness, we lie, and do not the truth: But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin. If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. 1 John 1:5..
Coming soon
The evidence of secular historian writings about Jesus, in addition, many of the most popular world beliefs outside of the Bible:
The religion of Islam believes Jesus Christ existed. Buddhism, Hinduism, and Baha'i religions believe Jesus existed. Jehovah's Witnesses and Mormons (LDS) believe Jesus existed.
However, they all miss the mark, and it's the wrong Jesus in their religion. The Bible in Christianity established who Jesus is -- God in physical form.
More coming soon
Bible Last Names, Is the Old Testament Important
The people in the Bible, in many countries, cultures and villages in the past centuries, most of them didn't have a hereditary family last name like in modern western societies that often have several names for an individual. Instead, they had a functional last name or title that was a first name associated with their birthplace and identity through a profession, trade or skill. .
Some Bible characters, especially in the Old Testament had longer and rare first names, as identifiers, with no need of a second name. In addition, first names attached by tribe, geography, family lineage or first names linked to a parent's first name or long-term occupation. Others had added surnames, and primarily nicknames to distinguish between individuals.
As an illustration, consider some of many various personal identifiers in the Bible: carpenter, blacksmith, king, craftsman, coppersmith, goldsmith, silversmith, merchant, potter, tent maker, bondservant, prophet, apostle, teacher of the law, priest, monarch, prince, musician, scribe, tax collector, shepherd, farmer, fisherman, doctor, baker and butler.
For example, Jesus Christ (Christ is not a last name), this is a title and attribute:
β’Jesus - the son of Joseph of Nazareth
β’ Jesus - Christ (The Messiah) son of Joseph the carpenter, or Jesus of Nazareth,...
β’ Jesus the Son of God
Many other popular people in the Bible with only first names:
Adam - (adham) first human being
Eve - (hhavah) mother of all humans
Levi - son Alphaeus
Ezra - the scribe
Miriam - daughter of Levi
Abraham - son of Terach
Zachariah - son of Berachiah
Joshua- son of Nun
Isaiah - the prophet and poet
Malachi - the prophet
Simon - Peter, fisherman
Andrew - fisherman, brother of Simon
David - King, skilled musician, poet.
Saul - of Tarsus, tent maker
Simon - a tanner craftsman
Joseph - the carpenter
Mary - daughter of Joachim
John - the baptist
Simon Bar - Jonah
John - son of Zebedee
Judas - Iscariot (location)
Matthew- tax collector
John - the blacksmith
Mary - Magdalene (town of Magdala)
Judas- Iscariot (town in Judah)
A few Bible passages of a the first name attached to an occupation or lineage:
Is not this the carpenter's son? is not his mother called Mary? and his brethren, James, and Joses, and Simon, and Judas? Matthew 13:55
Is not this the carpenter, the son of Mary, the brother of James, and Joses, and of Juda, and Simon? and are not his sisters here with us? And they were offended at him. Mark 6:3
Joanna the wife of Chuza, Herodβs steward, and Susanna, and many others who provided for Him from their substance. Luke 8:3
And, behold, there was a man named Zacchaeus, which was the chief among the publicans, and he was rich. Luke 19:2
For a certain man named Demetrius, a silversmith, which made silver shrines for Diana, brought no small gain unto the craftsmen; Acts 19:24
Bring Zenas the lawyer and Apollos on their journey diligently, that nothing be wanting unto them. Titus 3:13
Can you be saved and be a disciple of Jesus Christ if you don't read the Old Testament part of the Bible? Are both Testaments equally God's Word?
We may not fully comprehend the substance of the Old Testament if we have minimal interest in it, don't want to read it frequently, or believe it's inferior to the New Testament. We may not have the wisdom and Old Testament principles we would normally have, as well as the fundamental advantages and understanding of the Creator and Savior if we didn't read it. The New Testament is based on the historical and theological framework established by the Old Testament including the book of Genesis creation account.
If you have little or no interest in the Old Testament, you may need to reassess your spiritual condition or seek the incredible events and stories you are missing out on. Perhaps starting with the book of Psalms, Isaiah, and Proverbs would be a terrific way to pique your interest.
The Old Testament provides the sin condition of mankind and the theological and historical foundation upon which the continued narrative of the New Testament has. The one-time perfect and Holy sacrifice of Jesus Christ is the solution to our sins and restore us and our relationship with our Creator, due to humans drastically falling short of the hundreds of laws.
Reading both Testaments will allow you to fully understand the subject and provide crucial background information, cross-references, completion, parallels, and accurate interpretations of the events and subjects covered throughout the Bible.
Understanding prophecy of the Old Testament and future fulfillment provide supporting evidence of both testaments content who Jesus Christ is and will accomplish.
Many Apostles, and specifically Jesus Christ frequently cited and referred to Old Testament texts during His mission in order to substantiate His teachings, establish His identity, lead people out of spiritual darkness into His light, and establish His authority of the Word of God. Jesus regularly cited scriptures to illustrate His divine nature, explain His destiny of crucifixion and resurrection, and fulfill His Word of the law and prophets, by His mercy, grace and sacrificing Himself to pay our sin debt.
If we want to understand more about Jesus Christ, we must examine His character and other qualities through Old Testament Christophanies (appearances). For instance, the creation of "Us and Our" in Genesis 1β3, the subsequent wrestling with Jacob, and the occurrences of the Angel of the Lord in other Old Testament books.
In essence, because Jesus (the Son) is also God, these might also be referred to as theophanies. Jesus Christ was present and involved at the time of creation because He is a member of the triune β the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. The One and only Almighty God.
He [Jesus] was in the world, and the world was made by him, and the world knew him not. John 1:10
..And now, O Father, glorify thou me with thine own self with the glory which I had with thee before the world was. John 17:5
For by him [Jesus Christ] were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by him, and for him: And he is before all things, and by him all things consist. Colossians 1:16..
We must remember that Jesus Christ the Son, existed before He manifested Himself, by way of the Holy Spirit and Mary as described in the book of Matthew and Luke. Before the world was made, the eternal Son was constantly in communion and relationship with the Father God.
And he humbled thee, and suffered thee to hunger, and fed thee with manna, which thou knewest not, neither did thy fathers know; that he might make thee know that man doth not live by bread only, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of the Lord doth man live. Deuteronomy 8:3
Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path. Psalm 119:105
So shall my word be that goeth forth out of my mouth: it shall not return unto me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it. Isaiah 55:11
In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. John 1:1
And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth. John 1:14
And he was clothed with a vesture dipped in blood: and his name is called The Word of God. Revelation 19:13
The Old Testament is a very useful spiritual tool in guidance, growth and wisdom for Christian living. It is interconnected, supportive and complementary with the New Testament values and instruction. Important foundational context, faith and prophecies, establishing the future Messiah, His mercy, grace, and plan for the gift of salvation.
The Bible is the main source of evidence for the Christian faith. It covers a period of 1,500 years and includes information on geography, archeology connection, testimonials, prophecies, and genealogy from Adam to Jesus Christ's life and ministry. In addition, as ongoing fulfillment of Bible prophecies and His future plans for a New Earth and kingdom, partly described in Revelation 21 and 22.
Though it is a collection of 66 books, the Bible (the Word of God) is a true His-story (historical), and continuous narrative from start to finish. It is advised to cross-reference study topics throughout the Bible rather than reading the book from beginning to end as we are used to doing with other literature. The Bible's books were written at various points in time; some, like the book of Job (jobe), were not written in chronological order.
Old Testament faith and Old Testament vs new covenant law:
Many dietary and sacrificial laws of the Old Testament (old covenant) are no longer applicable to Christians but certain dietary concepts may be practiced for health.
Generally, many Christians gravitate more towards the New Testament of the Bible more than the Old Testament due to it being directly more related to our lives and more understanding.
The New Testament is the primary source and authority of belief and practice for Christians. However, the Old Testament provides a foundational context and understanding of God's plan and character for our future redemption. In addition, the Old Testament has critical core information about the beginning of time and creation, and stories and events established by key figures throughout that we may learn from on subjects of sin, trials, perseverance, prayer, worship, honor and more, like, for example, King David, Daniel, Job and others.
Lastly, and most important, are the prophecies in the Old Testament: steps preparing the way for the future Messiah, His mercy, grace, the cross and the resurrection fulfillment. This in turn gives us the opportunity for forgiveness of our sins, the gift of salvation and everlasting life.
Roughly 10% of the Old Testament is comprised of the 3,200 verses that are quoted in the New Testament of the Bible. The most frequently mentioned books are those from the Old Testament, such as Genesis, Isaiah and Psalms. This does not mean following the Old Testament law and the Old Covenant in its entirety.
In essence, the Holy Spirit serves as our teacher and guide. He took on various guises throughout the Old and New Testaments, assisting us in prayer, understanding, and applying the lessons found in the Bible. The Old Testament has a lot to offer Christians. The Old Testament is equally important to the New Testament; they go hand-in-hand with the message and good news of the redemptive plan of salvation.
The Old Testament prophets and many others were looking ahead in faith to the coming promise and prophecies they received for the future Messiah. The Old Testament believers through this faith in the Creator, when they died, went to a place called Abrahamβs bosom This along with possibly even the temporary destination during Jesus' crucifixion and conversation with the thief on the cross, who was told he would be with Jesus Christ in paradise due to his faith and the condition of his heart towards Jesus before his death.
Abraham believed God, and it was accounted to him for righteousness. Romans 4:3
And he said unto Jesus, Lord, remember me when thou comest into thy kingdom. And Jesus said unto him, Verily I say unto thee, Today shalt thou be with me in paradise. Luke 23:42..
Philip findeth Nathanael, and said unto him, We have found him, of whom Moses in the law, and the prophets, did write, Jesus of Nazareth, the son of Joseph. John 1:45
Do not think that I will accuse you to the Father: there is one that accuseth you, even Moses, in whom you trust. For had you believed Moses, ye would have believed me; for he wrote of me. John 5:45..
Your father Abraham rejoiced to see my day: and he saw it, and was glad. John 8:56
Jesus said unto them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Before Abraham was, I am. John 8:58
These things said Esaias [Isaiah], when he saw his glory, and spake of him. John 12:41
Of which salvation the prophets have enquired and searched diligently, who prophesied of the grace that should come unto you: 1 Peter 1:10
.believes on Him who justifies the ungodly, his faith is accounted for righteousness. Romans 4:5
Having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ. Rom. 5:1
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