Monday, December 18, 2017

America's ONLY Hope in These Last Days - The Lord Jesus Messiah!















What more does one have to read to know beyond a shadow of a doubt that we (America) are at the end nationally and globally (Matt. 24, 2 Thess. 2:10-12, Rev 6-16)! When the world’s only nation - at present - which was founded on the Laws of Nature and of Nature’s God, has rejected and turned their back on Almighty God and His moral absolutes, what hope is there – not just for the U.S. but for the world?

In these last days - as this world and our nation are spiraling frantically out of control at EXPONENTIAL levels never achieved before, there is a sound reality and great hope to all who call upon the Lord Jesus Christ as Savior and Deliverer (John 1:12; Acts 16:28-31).

We as a nation, have been reduced to an oppressed decadent culture and social order. May those - who so desire - look unto the Lord for His stability and confidence in these last days (Isa. 26:3, John 14:27). My dear friends, Rush Limbaugh, Donald Trump, Michael Savage, Hillary Clinton and  Barack Obama could NEVER in FOREVER offer that ETERNAL stability to any U.S. citizen
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God’s Word states that it is the Lord Jesus Messiah alone that saves!

Almighty God’s Word states over abundantly and emphatically that it is Jesus ALONE that saves! It is the Lord Jesus Messiah ALONE that delivers! (John 3:16-17, 14:6, Acts 4:12, 16:29-31)

If you are one who finds yourself today being addicted and dominated by this unbridled decadent spirit and the spirit of fear and unease, may you call with all your heart soul and mind to Almighty God for His deliverance and stability! He will ABSOLUTELY deliver you and set you free and you will NEVER be the same (John 8:32, 36, 2 Cor. 5:17-21)! That is the God honest truth my beloved. Have faith in God and BELIEVE!
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He will deliver you and set you free and you will NEVER be the same!

My dear friend, do YOU personally know the Lord Jesus Christ as your  Savior? There is great pardon and forgiveness to all that call upon His name (Eph. 2:1-10, 2 Cor. 5:17-21)! As the Day of the Lord approaches ever more closely and man’s plague laden remedies fail to contain the EXPONENTIAL fiscal and social damage and consequences unleashed today by man’s lawless addictions to the demons released from Pandora’s Box, May Almighty God be your refuge and strength in these last days! The Messiah (Christ) of Almighty God is America's inhabitants ONLY HOPE in these very turbulent days before the Day of the Lord FULLY arrives (Rev. 6-19).

Truly, the Kingdom of Heaven is at hand!
DJP I.F


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Saturday, December 16, 2017

Happy Holidays in Place Of Christmas

We hear it so often around this time of year: "Happy Holiday!" "Season’s Greeting!" Everyone seems to be in the mood for some kind of festive celebration.

Exactly what is the holiday that we are celebrating? Are we allowed to say it? Is it a forbidden word? Are we afraid to say it? Will people be offended if we actually tell them what the holiday is?

What ever happened to Christmas? What ever happened to the Christ of Christmas? Long ago there was no room in the inn. Is there any room for Him in today’s celebration? Are little children ever told about Him?

What ever happened to the birth of the Saviour? Should it even be mentioned? Was it a significant event? Has it been a giant mistake that all of our calendars mark His birth as the starting point, and that His birth divides all of this world’s history into B.C. (before Christ) and A.D. (anno Domini, in the year of the Lord)?

In the past we were concerned about the secularization of the Christmas holiday and we urged people to keep Christ in Christmas. Now it seems we have even lost Christmas! Look at the decorations people put up on their lawns: blown up snowmen, beautifully lighted reindeer that sometime move back and forth,
Santa Claus in all kinds of shapes and sizes, etc. If an alien from outer space were to visit earth at this season of the year and look at the holiday preparations and decorations, would he have any idea what Christmas is all about? (Not that I am a believer in alien visitations).

We observe a holiday at the beginning of every year and people don’t seem to be ashamed of it. They say, "Happy New Year!" They don’t say, "Happy Holiday!" They understand exactly what the holiday is all about and they have no problem celebrating the coming of a new year. Why are we embarrassed to celebrate the coming of the Saviour into the world? "This is a faithful saying and worthy of all acceptation that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners" (1 Timothy 1:15).
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If an alien from outer space were to visit earth at this season of the year and look at the holiday preparations and decorations, would he have any idea what Christmas is all about?

One might object: "If we make too much of Christmas we might offend our Jewish friends and we might offend the Muslims and we might offend the atheists." When our Jewish friends celebrate Hanukkah, for example, they are celebrating their deliverance from a brutal tyrant, King Antiochus Epiphanes, in 164 B.C. They have every right to celebrate this remarkable event and the courage of Judah the Maccabee and other heroes of that day. Indeed, most of the Jewish holy days (Passover, Day of Atonement, etc.) have their basis in the Bible and are highly instructive.

Muslims observe their holy days and are neither ashamed of them nor embarrassed by them. In our country they have a right to do so, and that right should be respected (even though in Muslim countries where religious freedom is unheard of, such rights are rarely if ever given to Christians). Do not Christians have a right to celebrate the birth of the Saviour, the time when God became a man? Or should we only do so secretly, behind closed doors, without anyone finding out what it is or WHO IT IS we are celebrating?

Atheists don’t have any holidays to celebrate their unbelief. There is little motivation to hold festivities in honor of a world view in which man finds himself in the middle of a universe governed by blind chance, having evolved as a freak accident of nature, facing a future without any rhyme, reason, or purpose, and headed for a death that ends all.

Should we give up Christmas and abandon it as a holy day? After all, no one wants to mention it anymore, and it seems to have evolved into a meaningless, festive, gift-giving occasion apart from any spiritual significance.

I don’t know about you, but as for me, I refuse to give it up. If the God of the entire universe, the Maker of heaven and earth, decided to pay a visit to this earth, then that event is highly significant and worthy of at least a yearly remembrance and thankful celebration. "And we have seen and do testify that the Father sent the Son to be the Saviour of the world" (1 John 4:14).

Here is the Christmas story according to John, a man who knew Jesus Christ very well: "In the beginning was the Word, 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...And the Word was made (became) flesh and dwelt among us" (John 1:1-3,14).
John also makes very clear the reason God came to earth as Man. He came on a saving mission: "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. For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through Him might be saved" (John 3:16-17).

Why was the incarnation so important? Why did God have to become a man? In order to save sinful men, God would have to die for sinful men. But God cannot die. Therefore God would have to become a man in order to be able to save mankind. This was made possible through the miracle of the virgin birth. Although God could not die, the God-Man (the Lord Jesus Christ) could die and did die for our sins: "All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned every one to his own way; and the LORD hath laid on Him (the Messiah) the iniquity of us all" (Isaiah 53:6). "But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us" (Romans 5:8).

On that first Christmas night, the angel announced the good news which summarizes the true meaning of Christmas: "And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord" (Luke 2:10-11). If it really is good news for all people, why should we be ashamed of it? The Saviour’s entrance into this world should be shouted from the housetops!

The Saviour has been born! He died as the sinner’s Substitute and He rose again to provide eternal life for all who believe in Him. Do you know Him as your personal Saviour? "But as many as received Him, to them gave He power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on His name" (John 1:12). Jesus said, "Him that cometh to Me I will I will in no wise cast out" (John 6:35).

"But these [things] are written, that ye might believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believing ye might have LIFE through His Name" (John 20:31).

The Kingdom of Heaven is at hand!

GZ I.F

The Christmas Reality
The Gospel of John Challenge
Available in tract form


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Monday, December 4, 2017

Mary of Nazareth As The Bible Defines Her



















This study seeks to present from God's Holy Word what the Bible teaches about Mary of Nazareth, the young Jewish virgin that bore the Messiah, the Savior of the World. In this study we will seek to look at EVERY Bible verse found in the Holy Scriptures that pertains to Mary of Nazareth. Be sure to check out all the links for this study, for they will provide a deeper perspective into the person of Mary.
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Introduction
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In beginning this study, the clarifying statement should be made that the Bible, God’s infallible (reliable) and immaculate (perfect) Word, is the FINAL AUTHORITY when it comes to ALL matters pertaining to the truth of Christianity, which includes Mary (2 Peter 1:20-21; 2 Timothy 3:16).

The Lord Jesus Christ gave countless warnings to BEWARE of false teachers and false teachings. And Jesus answered and said unto them, Take heed that no man DECEIVE YOU (Gospel of Saint Matthew 24:4).

Saint Paul also warned us to BEWARE of false teachings and fables. Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine. For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears; And they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables (2 Timothy 4:2-4).

Many dear, sincere people trust for their ETERNAL destiny in observing "Christian traditions," performing "good works" and having a "denominational upbringing" instead of BELIEVING and TRUSTING the Word of Almighty God (2 Tim. 3:14-4:5). The Lord Jesus issued serious warnings about practicing the vain traditions of men instead of holding to the sound eternal absolutes and spiritual laws found in Almighty God's Holy Word (St. Matt. 7:21-23).

Howbeit in vain do they worship me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men. For laying aside the commandment of God, ye hold the tradition of men, as the washing of pots and cups: and many other such like things ye do. And he said unto them, Full well ye reject the commandment of God, that ye may keep your own tradition (St. Mark 7:7-9).

Thus have ye made the commandment of God of none effect by your tradition. Ye hypocrites, well did Esaias prophesy of you, saying, This people nigh unto me with their mouth, and honoureth me with their lips; but their heart is far from me. But in vain they do worship me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men (St. Matthew 15:6b-9).

We also read in God's Word about the positive example of the Bereans. They (The Bereans)received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so. Therefore many of them believed" (Acts 17:11b-12a).
Again, God's Word is the ABSOLUTE FINAL authority when it comes to any subject or teaching found in Christianity. The Bible states in regard to God's Word: For ever, O LORD, thy word is settled in heaven (Psalm 119:89).
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Thy word is true from the beginning: and every one of thy righteous judgments endureth forever (Psalm 119:160). Heaven and earth shall pass away, but my words shall not pass away (St. Matthew 24:35).

For this cause also thank we God without ceasing, because when ye received the word of God which ye heard of us, ye received it not as the word of men, but as it is in truth, the word of God, which effectually worketh also in you that believe (1 Thess. 2:13).

He that is of God heareth God's words (St. John 8:47). May it be your sincere desire not to allow your own feelings to cloud your reason regarding this very delicate subject relating to Mary of Nazareth. By having faith in Almighty God (Heb. 11:6), i.e., by believing on God and His Word, may the Holy Spirit guide you into all truth (St. John 16:12-13). Whatever your thoughts, traditions or teachings about Mary (or Miriam in the Hebrew) of Nazareth, they MUST be defined by and align themselves with the Holy Scriptures. Again, the objective of this study is to present what God's Holy Word, the Bible, teaches about Mary of Nazareth.

So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God (Rom 10:17).

The Humanity of Mary

And Mary said, My soul doth magnify the Lord, And my spirit hath rejoiced in God my Saviour. For he hath regarded the low estate (to look with pity on her vile condition) of his handmaiden (slave): for, behold, from henceforth all generations shall call me blessed. For he that is mighty hath done to me great things; and holy is his name. And his mercy is on them that fear him from generation to generation (St. Luke 1:45-49).

Mary offered a burnt offering and a sin offering for an atonement after her purification (Leviticus 12:1-8). And when the days of her purification according to the law of Moses were accomplished, they brought him to Jerusalem, to present him to the Lord; (As it is written in the law of the Lord, Every male that openeth the womb shall be called holy to the Lord;) And to offer a sacrifice according to that which is said in the law of the Lord, A pair of turtledoves, or two young pigeons (St. Luke 2:22-24).
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These passages reveal that Mary was a sinner in need of a Savior!

The Use of the Term "Woman" by the Lord Jesus in Regard to Mary

Nowhere in the New Testament is there found the occasion where the Lord Jesus called His "human" mother Mary, "Mother." We only find that He called her "Woman" (St. John 2:1-4; 19:25-27). There are distinctions given by the Gospel writers (2 Peter 1:20-21) that reveal Mary as the mother of Jesus’ human nature, but again the term "mother" was never used by Jesus when addressing Mary. We have absolutely NO record of that. Mary was a created being and the Lord Jesus was the ETERNAL Creator (St. John 1:1-3; Col. 1:16; Heb. 1:1-3). This practice was not belittling to motherhood in general or derogatory to Mary herself in any way, shape or form. The Lord Jesus was helping Mary to understand that the Son of her womb (the flesh) was housing the ETERNAL Son of the Highest sent from Heaven above (St. John 1:1-14; Isaiah 9:6; Micah 5:2). Mary had only given birth to PROVIDE a perfect human body (by passing fallen man's seed) to house the ETERNAL Person of the Son of God for His great mission here on planet earth, redemption for Adam's fallen race (St. John 1:14; Rom. 5:12-21, Heb. 2:14-15; 10:5, 12:1-3).
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Image Example:
(Click links below for a visual image)

The Lord Jesus the perfect and complete egg














Adam's fallen race including Mary


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Jesus was (and is) the Perfect Son of God (St. John 1:1-3), God in the flesh (St. John 1:14) and the Savior of the World for all humanity and even Mary (St. Luke 1:45-49). This title of "woman" given by Jesus was a constant reminder to and for Mary (Miriam) that Jesus born of her flesh was absolutely different and holy (perfect and set apart) frm her and all of Adam's fallen race. Jesus was not like any of her other children or any other of Adam's IMPERFECT fallen race (St. Luke 1:31-32; Rom. 5:12-19). He was the PERFECT Son of Almighty God dwelling in a PERFECT human body (St. John 8:46; 1 Peter 3:18). The heavenly assignment given to Mary by Almighty God would not be an easy one, as the Holy Scriptures tell us.
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And all they that heard it wondered at those things which were told them by the shepherds. But Mary kept all these things, and pondered them in her heart (St. Luke 2:18-19).

And Simeon blessed them, and said unto Mary his mother, Behold, this child is set for the fall and rising again of many in Israel; and for a sign which shall be spoken against; (Yea, a sword shall pierce through thy own soul also,) that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed (St. Luke 2:34-35).

And when they saw him, they were amazed: and his mother said unto him, Son, why hast thou thus dealt with us? behold, thy father and I have sought thee sorrowing. And he said unto them, How is it that ye sought me? wist ye not that I must be about my Father’s business? And they understood not the saying which he spoke unto them. And he went down with them, and came to Nazareth, and was subject unto them: but his mother kept all these sayings in her heart (St. Luke 2:48-51).

And he answered them, saying, Who is my mother, or my brethren? And he looked round about on them which sat about him, and said, Behold my mother and my brethren! For whosoever shall do the will of God, the same is my brother, and my sister, and mother (Mark 3:35).

Now there stood by the cross of Jesus his mother, and his mother’s sister, Mary the wife of Cleophas and Mary Magdalene. When Jesus therefore saw his mother, and the disciple standing by, whom he loved, he saith unto his mother, Woman, behold thy son! Then saith he to the disciple, Behold thy mother! And from that hour that disciple took her unto his own home(St. John 19:25-27).
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(This last passage is pertinent to understanding why Jesus used the term "woman" when addressing Mary, i.e., to communicate that his relationship with his earthly mother would not be permanent, only temporary.)

The Virgin-Born Birth of The Savior of the World
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And the LORD God said unto the woman, What is this that thou hast done? And the woman said, The serpent beguiled me, and I did eat. And the LORD God said unto the serpent, Because thou hast done this, thou art cursed above all cattle, and above every beast of the field; upon thy belly shalt thou go, and dust shalt thou eat all the days of thy life: And I will put enmity between thee and the woman, and between thy (Lucifer's) seed and her (Eve's, later Mary's) seed; it shall bruise thy head, and thou shalt bruise his heel (Genesis 3:13-15).

Therefore the Lord himself shall give you a sign; Behold, a virgin shall conceive, and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel (Isaiah 7:14).

But while he thought on these things, behold, the angel of the Lord appeared unto him in a dream, saying, Joseph, thou son of David, fear not to take unto thee Mary thy wife: for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Ghost. And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name JESUS: for he shall save his people from their sins. Now all this was done, that it might be fulfilled which was spoken of the Lord by the prophet, saying, Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call his name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us (St. Matthew 1:20-23).

And, behold, thou shalt conceive in thy womb, and bring forth a son, and shalt call his name JESUS. He shall be great, and shall be called the Son of the Highest: and the Lord God shall give unto him the throne of his father David: And he shall reign over the house of Jacob for ever; and of his kingdom there shall be no end. Then said Mary unto the angel, How shall this be, seeing I know not a man? And the angel answered and said unto her, The Holy Ghost shall come upon thee, and the power of the Highest shall overshadow thee: therefore also that holy thing which shall be born of thee shall be called the Son of God (Luke 1:31-35).
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But when the fulness of the time was come, God sent forth his Son, made of a woman, made under the law (Gal 4:4).
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Almighty God (the Father) BYPASSED the seed of fallen man by the POWER and OVERSHADOWING of the Holy Spirit (St. Luke 1:35). This Divine action PREVENTED the fallen traits and corruption of Adam's FALLEN race (Gen. 5:3; Romans 3:23; 5:12-19) from CONTAMINATING the PERFECT housing (body of flesh) for the Person of the Son of God to tangibly dwell here on planet earth (Micah 5:2; St. Luke 1:35; St. John 1:14; Heb. 10:5; 1 Peter 1:19).
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The Non-Perpetual Virginity of Mary after the Lord Jesus' Birth
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Now the birth of Jesus Christ was on this wise: When as his mother Mary was espoused to Joseph, before they came together (i.e., had intimate physical relations), she was found with child of the Holy Ghost. Then Joseph her husband, being a just man, and not willing to make her a publick example, was minded to put her away privily. But while he thought on these things, behold, the angel of the Lord appeared unto him in a dream, saying, Joseph, thou son of David, fear not to take unto thee Mary thy wife: for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Ghost. And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name JESUS: for he shall save his people from their sins. Now all this was done, that it might be fulfilled which was spoken of the Lord by the prophet, saying, Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call his name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us. Then Joseph being raised from sleep did as the angel of the Lord had bidden him, and took unto him his wife: And knew her not (refers to sexual intimacy of the God-ordained marital union) till she had brought forth her firstborn son: and he called his name JESUS (St. Matthew 1:18-25).

And she brought forth her firstborn (implies the first with more following after) son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn (St. Luke 2:7).

Mary and Joseph's Children

I am become a stranger to my brothers, and an alien to my mother's children (Psalm 69:8).
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And it came to pass, that when Jesus had finished these parables, he departed thence. And when he was come into his own country, he taught them in their synagogue, insomuch that they were astonished, and said, Whence hath this man this wisdom, and these mighty works? Is not this the carpenter’s son? is not his mother called Mary? and his brethren, James, and Joses, and Simon, and Judas? And his sisters, are they not all with us? Whence then hath this man all these things? (Matthew 13:53-55).
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“When the sabbath day was come, he began to teach in the synagogue: and many hearing him were astonished, saying, From whence hath this man these things? and what wisdom is this which is given unto him, that even such mighty works are wrought by his hands? 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” (St. Mark 6:1-3).

After this he went down to Capernaum, he, and his mother, and his brethren, and his disciples: and they continued there not many days (St. John 2:12).
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His brethren therefore said unto him, Depart hence, and go into Judaea, that thy disciples also may see the works that thou doest. For there is no man that doeth any thing in secret, and he himself seeketh to be known openly. If thou do these things, shew thyself to the world. For neither did his brethren believe in him. Then Jesus said unto them, My time is not yet come: but your time is alway ready. The world cannot hate you; but me it hateth, because I testify of it, that the works thereof are evil. Go ye up unto this feast: I go not up yet unto this feast; for my time is not yet full come (St. John 7:3-8).

And when they were come in, they went up into an upper room, where abode both Peter, and James, and John, and Andrew, Philip, and Thomas, Bartholomew, and Matthew, James the son of Alphaeus, and Simon Zelotes, and Judas the brother James. These all continued with one accord in prayer and supplication, with the women, and Mary the mother of Jesus, and with his brethren (Acts 1:13-14).

There came then his brethren and his mother, and, standing without, sent unto him, calling him. And the multitude sat about him, and they said unto him, Behold, thy mother and thy brethren without seek for thee. And he answered them, saying, Who is my mother, or my brethren? And he looked round about on them which sat about him, and said, Behold my mother and my brethren! For whosoever shall do the will of God, the same is my brother, and my sister, and mother (St. Mark 3:31-35).

And Mary Magdalene and Mary the mother of Joses beheld where he was laid (St. Mark 15:47).

And when the Sabbath was past, Mary Magdalene, and Mary the mother of James, and Salome, had bought sweet spices, that they might come and anoint him (St. Mark 16:1).

Among which was Mary Magdalene, and Mary the mother of James and Joses, and the mother of Zebedee’s children. When the even was come, there came a rich man of Arimathaea, named Joseph, who also himself was Jesus’ disciple: He went to Pilate, and begged the body of Jesus (Matthew 27:56-58).

Then after three years I went up to Jerusalem to see Peter, and abode with him fifteen days. But other of the apostles saw I none, save James the Lord’s brother (Galatians 1:19).

Jude, the servant of Jesus Christ, and brother of James, to them that are sanctified by God the Father, and preserved in Jesus Christ, and called: Mercy unto you, and peace, and love, be multiplied (St. Jude 1:1-2).

The Book of James and the Book of Jude were written by the half-brothers of Jesus, i.e., Mary’s children fathered by Joseph. Also, James the half-brother of Jesus was one of the early leaders of the Church at Jerusalem (Acts 15:13-21).

Mary's Life after the Crucifixion and Resurrection of Christ
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During the crucifixion of Christ on the cross, John is given guardianship of Mary and her family by her firstborn son, Jesus.

Now there stood by the cross of Jesus his mother, and his mother’s sister, Mary the wife of Cleophas, and Mary Magdalene. When Jesus therefore saw his mother, and the disciple standing by, whom he loved, he saith unto his mother, Woman, behold thy son! Then saith he to the disciple, Behold thy mother! And from that hour that disciple took her unto his own home (St. John 19:26-27).

Mary and her family were present with the disciples at Pentecost and were also included with the Church at Jerusalem.
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And when they were come in, they went up into an upper room, where abode both Peter, and James, and John, and Andrew, Philip, and Thomas, Bartholomew, and Matthew, James the son of Alphaeus, and Simon Zelotes, and Judas the brother of James. These all continued with one accord in prayer and supplication, with the women, and Mary the mother of Jesus, and with his brethren. (Acts 1:13, 14)

NOTE: All words in bold print in the following section refer directly to the disciples and church age believers (including Mary).

And when the day of Pentecost was fully come, they were all with one accord (including Mary) in one place. And suddenly there came a sound from heaven as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled all the house where they were sitting. And there appeared unto them cloven tongues like as of fire, and it sat upon each of them. And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance (Acts 2:1-4).
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And they continued stedfastly in the apostles’ doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers. And fear came upon every soul: and many wonders and were done by the apostles. And all that believed were together, and had all things common; And sold their possessions and goods, and parted them to all men, as every man had need. And they, continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, did eat their meat with gladness and singleness of heart, Praising God, and having favour with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved (Acts 2:42-47).
 
Mary, the Rapture and the ETERNAL State

Mary eventually died and was buried and her soul and spirit received into her Savior's presence; as all blood brought saints of the Church age are in death; awaiting their new ETERNAL spiritual body (Psalm 116:15, Acts 7:55-60, 1 Cor 15, Cor.2 Cor. 5:6-8, Phil. 1:23, 1 John 3:1-4); and then (in the fullness of time) Mary will be FOREVER changed in the likeness of her Savior at the Rapture of the Church with all the blood brought saints of the Church age (1 John 3:1-4).
NOTE: All words in bold print in the following section refer to "church age" believers (including Mary).

But I would not have you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning them which are asleep, that ye sorrow not, even as others which have no hope. For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so them also which sleep in Jesus will God bring with him. For this we say unto you by the word of the Lord, that we which are alive and remain unto the coming of the Lord shall not prevent them which are asleep. For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first: Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord (1 Thessalonians 4:13-18).

Behold, I shew you a mystery; We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed, 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. So when this corruptible shall have put on incorruption, and this mortal shall have put on immortality, then shall be brought to pass the saying that is written, Death is swallowed up in victory. O death, where is thy sting? O grave, where is thy victory? The sting of death is sin; and the strength of sin is the law. But thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ (1 Corinthians 15:51-57).

Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons (children) of God: therefore the world knoweth us not, because it knew him not. Beloved, now are we the sons (children) of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is. And every man that hath this hope in him purifieth himself, even as he is pure (1 John 3:1-3).

And I heard a great voice out of heaven saying, Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, and he will dwell with them, and they shall be his people, and God himself shall be with them, and be their God. And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away (Rev. 21:3-4).

And he shewed me a pure river of water of life, clear as crystal, proceeding out of the throne of God and of the Lamb. In the midst of the street of it, and on either side of the river, was there the tree of life, which bare twelve manner of fruits, and yielded her fruit every month: and the leaves of the tree were for the healing of the nations. And there shall be no more curse: but the throne of God and of the Lamb shall be in it; and his servants shall serve him: And they shall see his face; and his name shall be in their foreheads. And there shall be no night there; and they need no candle, neither light of the sun; for the Lord God giveth them light: and they shall reign for ever and ever (Revelation 22:1-5).

And there shall in no wise enter into it any thing that defileth, neither whatsoever worketh abomination, or maketh a lie: but they which are written in the Lamb's book of. life (Rev. 21:27).

And the Spirit and the bride (the Church) say, Come. And let him that heareth say, Come. And let him that is athirst come. And whosoever will, let him take the water of life freely (Rev. 22:17).

Conclusion

The Scripture verses presented here consisted of ALL the scripture verses that mention Mary of Nazareth. The many traditions of Mary - her intercessory prayers, her immaculate birth and sinless life (or state of perfection), her perpetual virginity, her ascension into Heaven, her immaculate heart, etc. are NOWHERE TO BE FOUND in the Holy Scriptures. Relatively speaking, very little is mentioned about Mary in the New Testament. These false doctrines, teachings, fables and traditions passed down through the centuries have originated and been enlarged upon by the traditions of men and the Catholic Church. These fables were not given by Almighty God. In fact, these teachings contradict the Holy Scriptures and its Divine authority. They are at the very heart of Satan's lies and deception to mislead men and women from faith in the Savior of the world.

To again clarify, this study was not done to belittle any one's personal beliefs, but only to expose the heretical falsehoods pertaining to the church traditions and teachings of Mary of Nazareth. It is our deepest desire to encourage people to BELIEVE the Holy Scriptures and to REJECT any teachings and traditions of men which contradict the Holy Scriptures. May it be your sincere desire to acknowledge Mary as she is; a wonderful and faithful servant of Almighty God (Luke 1:28).  May Jesus Christ ONLY be exalted and lifted up in our hearts and lives.

St. Peter stated in 2 Peter 1: 20-21: Knowing this first, that no prophecy of the scripture is of any private interpretation. For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost. And St. Paul wrote in 2 Timothy 3:12-17: Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution. But evil men and seducers shall wax worse and worse, deceiving, and being deceived. But continue thou in the things which thou hast learned and hast been assured of, knowing of whom thou hast learned them; And that from a child thou hast known the Holy Scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus. All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.

The Bible, God’s infallible and immaculate Word, is the ABSOLUTE and FINAL AUTHORITY for all matters relating to spiritual truth (doctrine) about God, Jesus, sin, salvation, Mary, etc. May it be your sincere desire to be governed by the Holy Scriptures and NOT by the traditions of men (St. Matt. 15; St. Mark 7). The true (Biblical) Mary would surely want you to!.
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The Kingdom of Heaven is at hand!

DJP I.F.
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Edited by BEL I.F.

The One I though I Knew - My brief personal testimony

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Thursday, November 23, 2017

The Mayflower and the Titanic

Dear Friends, what a contrast! Behold! There were 102 people who boarded a small sailing vessel; there were over 2000 who boarded a massive ocean liner nearly 300 years later. The humble Pilgrims were passengers on the Mayflower. They knew that this world was not their true home (Heb. 11:13; 1 Pet. 2:11). The Pilgrims were not seeking riches or earthly fame. They merely wanted a land where they could worship God according to the dictates of their own consciences in view of the clear teachings of the Scriptures. The Pilgrims were willing to suffer great hardships in order to gain this freedom!

 The Pilgrims were not seeking riches or earthly fame. They merely wanted a land where they could worship God according to the dictates of their own consciences in view of the clear teachings of the Scriptures.

The passengers on the luxurious Titanic included many rich people who were accustomed to enjoying all earthly comforts. They delighted in the fine things which this world had to offer. Many were godless, and in their false sense of security boasted, "Not even God can sink this ship!

In spite of the Pilgrim"s difficulties, God wondrously protected them on the Mayflower. The voyage lasted 65 days with many trials. They met with many fierce storms, but God brought them safely to Cape Cod. Remarkably, only two lives were lost on the trip. One man, John Howland, even fell overboard on a stormy night but was rescued against all odds.  [See The Remarkable Story of John Howland, Mayflower Passenger]

Almighty God was with the Mayflower and the tiny ship withstood the seas; the massive Titanic that boasted against God had calm seas and sank.








Almighty God was with the Mayflower and the tiny ship withstood the seas; the massive Titanic that boasted against God had calm seas and sank. The Mayflower believers knew that God was their refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. The Titanic victims struggling to survive in icy waters heard the valiant witness of John Harper: "Are you saved? Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ and thou shalt be saved!"  [See The Titanic - The Amazing but Little Known Story of John Harper]
 
Those on the Mayflower trusted in God and were delivered; those on the Titanic proudly trusted in this world system and the majority perished. Dear friend, which vessel represents the object of your trust?

The Kingdom of Heaven is at hand!

GWZ I.F.

Why Thanksgiving?

In the light of what is, what is not, what is going to be, how then shall we proceed? At the very least in light of life’s realities, be thankful! God is good no matter what or why or who and God’s saving grace is sufficient for you.

Thanksgiving Deserves the Right Attitude
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A right attitude towards God is needed, not a attitude of indifference and rejection as in Romans 1:21 – “Because that, when they knew God, they glorified him not as God, neither were [they] THANKFUL; but became vain in their imaginations, and their foolish heart was darkened.” “This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come. For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, UNTHANKFUL, unholy (2 Timothy 3:1-2).” “O GIVE THANKS unto the LORD; for he is good: because his mercy endureth for ever. Let them now that fear the LORD say, that his mercy endureth for ever” (Psalm 118:1,4). And his mercy is on them that fear him from generation to generation (Luke 1:50).

Thanksgiving Involves the Right Action
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The right action is necessary. “O GIVE THANKS unto the LORD, for he is good: for his mercy endureth for ever” (Psalm 107:1). Thank Almighty God for His mercy, for it is with a thankful heart that you can receive the priceless gift of God’s son. “But as many as RECEIVED Him, to them gave he power [the right] to become the sons [children] of God, even to them that believe on His Name” (John 1:12). “And brought them out, and said, Sirs, what must I do to be saved? And they said, BELIEVE on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be SAVED, and thy house” (Acts 16:30-31). “THANKS be unto God for his unspeakable gift” (2 Cor. 9:15).

Thanksgiving Involves the Right Approach

A genuine heart attitude of thanksGIVING ought to result in a life of thanksLIVING: “SERVE the LORD with gladness: come before his presence with singing. Know ye that the LORD he is God: it is he that hath made us, and not we ourselves; we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture. Enter into his gates WITH THANKSGIVING, and into his courts with praise: BE THANKFUL unto him, and bless his name. For the LORD is good; his mercy is everlasting; and his truth endureth to all generations” (Psalm 100:2-5).

Are you able to thank the Lord Jesus Christ for His saving presence in your life? Why not receive Him now as your personal Savior because of His personal concern for you!

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MBC I.F
Thanksgiving Street
The Gospel of John Challenge

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Monday, November 20, 2017

All for Thee, Thy Will be Done! FREE CD Offer!


Dear IFB friends, we would like to share with you our "All for Thee, Thy Will be Done!" CD which has been well received and a great blessing to many for Almighty God's glory (1 Cor. 10:31). Our sincere great desire has been from the beginning to allow Almighty God to outwork His will and way in our lives for His glory and honor; and to let the world know that there is a Savior and that God the Father is very personal to His blood brought children (John 3:16-17, 15:1-8, Romans 8:28-39, 2 Cor. 5:17-21).

Our desire now is to share our "All for Thee, Thy Will be Done!" CD and Songs of Personal Testimony song book with God's children who would like a FREE copy!

If you would like a FREE CD and Song book please contact us at:
theignorantfishermen@live.com and we will get that out to you!

In these last days may Almighty God's presence, Person and Word be your greatest joy and hope!

The Kingdom of Heaven is at hand!

DJP I.F.

To hear our songs of personal testimony see our Unto the Chief Musician Music Sound Cloud page!

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Monday, November 13, 2017

The Anti Christ - Seven Year Reign or Forty Two Month Reign?



















My dear friends, a few more key points and challenges I would like to make to Bible scholars is for them to see how many times the person of the "anti Christ" is found in the first half of the seven year tribulation period in comparison to the second half. The passages referring to the anti- Christ in the second half of the seven year tribulation are much more abundant and display him in a place of total global dominance and authority, while in the first half he is lightly esteemed. The Anti Christ/Messiah does NOT come to ABSOLUTE TOTAL power UNTIL AFTER the 1260 day ministry of the Two Witnesses is completed which will start the second half of the seven year tribulation period - (Rev. 11:3-7,13:1-5); thus he will be absolutely no match for Almighty God's Two Witnesses' ministry nor the dominant man of power as many make him to be during the first half of the seven year tribulation. There are only a few places in which we find the Anti Christ in the first half of the seven year tribulation period and in all cases it is a place of secondary standing (Dan.9:26-27, Rev. 17:8, 10, 11, 2 Thess. 2:3, 6-8).

The Anti Christ/Messiah does NOT come to ABSOLUTE TOTAL power UNTIL AFTER the 1260 day ministry of the Two Witnesses is completed which will start the second half of the seven year tribulation period.

The Two Witnesses of Almighty God - will be at this time GREAT BURNING lights of Divine REALITY and TRUTH unto Israel and the entire world (Rev. 11:3-6) for Almighty God. In a post unregenerate church age world (Rev. 6-16) because of the Rapture of the Body of Christ - John 14:3, 1 Cor, 15:51-57, 1 Thess. 4:13-18, 2 Thess. 2:5-8, 1 John 3:1-4, Rev. 4:1), these Two will ABSOLUTELY DOMINATE the first half of the seven year tribulation period with ALL AUTHORITY, POWER, SIGNS and WONDERS (Rev. 11:3-6). In Revelation 11:3-6 we see the ABSOLUTE TREMENDOUS POWER that these Two Individuals can wield upon the godless nations of the world; including against Gog (the chief prince of Meshech and Tubal) and his confederacy (Ezek. 38-39). Whosoever opposes their Divine ministry for Israel and who are for her total destruction will be immediately dealt with (Rev. 11:3-6). During their Divine ministry they will absolutely TORMENT the world for 1260 days and will be totally UNDEFEATABLE at this time (Rev. 11:3-10)! No wonder that after their 1260 days are fulfilled and then murder at the hand of the beast that the satanically driven world will greatly rejoice with great exceeding joy and give gifts to each other as they now proclaim in its right season (Rev. 11:7-13), "Who is like unto the beast? who is able to make war with him (Rev. 11:7-10, 13:4)?" It will be this common bound of hatred towards Almighty God's Two Witnesses that will be the common tie that binds all nations against the established REALITY of Almighty God's RIGHTEOUS Person, call to global repentance and the 666 alliance of desolation under the resuscitated anti Christ (Dan. 9:27, Matt. 24:15, Rev. 11:3-17, Rev. 13; Rev. 17:7-17).

The Kingdom of Heaven is at hand!

DJP I.F.


First Half Anti Christ Workings


Second Half Anti Christ Workings

The Anti Christ's Doom

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Thursday, November 9, 2017

Look and Be Saved America!

Hear me my dear friend, I plead with you with all my being, I would like for you - in ALL REALITY and TRUTH - to direct your attention away from the EXPONENTIAL political and social problems that engulf our nation and world and REDIRECT your focus and attention to Almighty God our ETERNAL CREATOR and His INFALLIBLE RIGHTEOUS Word for your soul and hour!

Look to and Seek The Lord!

"Look unto me, and be ye saved, all the ends of the earth: for I am God, and there is none else" (Isaiah 45:22).

"And ye shall seek me, and find me, when ye shall search for me with all your heart. 29:14 And I will be found of you, saith the LORD" (Jeremiah 29:13).

"Have Faith in God" (Mark 11:22).

"But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him" (Hebrews 11:6).

Put your hope and expectations in Almighty God and His solutions for you here in time and for ETERNITY!

"Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths. Be not wise in thine own eyes: fear the LORD, and depart from evil. It shall be health to thy navel, and marrow to thy bones" (Proverbs 3:5-8).

"And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose" (Romans 8:28).

My friend, the question needs to be asked; Do you know The Lord Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior as taught in the Holy Scriptures?” Our moral virtues and conservative ideologies are not good enough for ETERNITY. We must not trust in our own human goodness, but only in the ABSOLUTE RIGHTEOUSNESS (perfection) that is found in Jesus Christ to enter into God’s perfect (holy) Heaven.

The Bible states; "For I bear them record that they have a zeal of God, but not according to knowledge. For they being ignorant of God’s righteousness, and going about to establish their own righteousness, have not submitted themselves unto the righteousness of God. For Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to every one that believeth" (Romans 10:2-4).

Do you have Almighty God's RIGHTEOUSNESS that is only found in The Lord Jesus Christ? This is the dire question at hand for you, not what are we to do now in Washington.

In these very difficult days may you redirect your hope and expectations from Washington D.C. into the very throne room of Almighty God’s perfect heaven. Almighty God and His Word will never change and that is the anchor of the soul for any - who by faith - place their full trust in Him. His promises (past, present, future) are sure, steadfast and true. My you place your trust in Him today - saved or unsaved for in doing so you will never be the same.

The Kingdom of Heaven is at hand!

DJP I.F.

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Monday, October 30, 2017

The Vanity of Hillary Clinton - Almighty God the RIGHTEOUS is NOT Mocked!








Will one of America's biggest fraud and lair ever see justice? Well... most likely not at all... for you know how that goes today... But be VERY assured my friend that in that Day, Hillary will not get by or buy her way out of that ETERNAL JUDGMENT, for Almighty God the RIGHTEOUS JUDGE will not be mocked; and can NEVER be played (Gal. 6:7, Rev. 20:11-15). How pathetic and tragic can one be when one has sold their soul for temporal power and acceptance in this vain life (Eccl. 1-12). Oh the vanity of Hillary Clinton!! Our deeds tell on us and Mrs. Clinton's deeds are as a football stadium shouting at it's zenith of who this woman truly is (Matt. 7:15-20)!

We continually hear Mrs. Clinton use the phrase "our country's (America) values" as she lies through her teeth and pushes her leftist lawless lies that she uses to protect and exalt herself. It is absolutely pathetic to watch Mrs Clinton continually lie about who she is and what she stands for as she seeks absolute power at any cost. What is most pathetic is her ever "morphing life" and how the godless media seeks to promote her lies, illusions and delusions to the masses of low-info crowds. How tragic is it that Mrs. Clinton has to continually re-inventing herself at every turn. Hillary really believes her own lies and fairy tales about who she is and the delusions of grandeur of false achievements in which she has invented about herself. Much like her idol's master she seeks delusion and power over TRUTH and RIGHTEOUSNESS.

 All are expendable, disposable and set apart for character destruction by her and her sycophants to keep Hillary's delusion alive.
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In the vain world of Hillary Clinton all are expendable, disposable and set apart for character destruction by her and her sycophants to keep Hillary's delusion alive. I think of a child I grew up with who told the most incredible whoppers to be accepted by his class mates and such is the mind and heart of this individual who has to continually reinvent herself as she chases after her dream of popularity and acceptance. These progressive secularists know ABSOLUTELY nothing of our American values and they despise everything that our American Founding Fathers stood for! Hillary and leading progressive secular Alinskytes are in a full blown war against our U.S. Constitution and the very absolutes and principles of Almighty God their Creator which made this country great. They have crowned themselves liberators of the lawless and now promote and seek to normalize all forms of base and depraved behavior and lawlessness (Rom. 1:8-32, Jude 1:10)Our Founders were not moral relativists, haters of God, narcissistic, selfish, arrogant, socialists, secularists, sex addicts, murders of the innocent and haters of the Laws of Nature and Nature's God but these American Leftist surely are. In the end, Hillary's sacrifice for self glorification and acceptance will go down in flames and as all humanity before her has and will have to give a full account to her Creator in Spirit and TRUTH in that Day (Eccl. 12:12-14, John 3:16-17, 36, Acts 17:30-31, Rev. 20:11-15).

We in TRUE love, sincerity and truth desire that Hillary would repent and come to a saving relationship to her Creator in Spirit and TRUTH; who loved her and gave himself for her (John 3:16-17, Acts 4:12, 16:28-31, Rom. 10:2-4, 1 John 5:10-18). Then and only then will she find the TRUE love and acceptance that she so desperately craves, not just in this life but for all ETERNITY!

In the end, Hillary's sacrifice for self glorification and acceptance will go down in flames and as all humanity before her will have to give a full account to her Creator in Spirit and TRUTH in that Day. Our sincere and true desire is that Hillary would repent and come to a saving relationship to her Creator in Spirit and TRUTH. Then and only then will she find the TRUE love and acceptance that she so desperately craves, not just in this life but for all ETERNITY!


It is again our sincere desire that Hillary Clinton turn (180 degrees) and come to a saving knowledge of the KING of Kings and LORD of lords; the Lord Jesus Christ in Spirit and Truth. The Bible's message of SALVATION is very, very clear to all and one that we need not be offended by. We are just to BELIEVE it, RECEIVE it, REJOICE in it, ENJOY it, and THANK Almighty God for it! It is just that simple my dear friend (Acts 16:28-30, Rom. 10:17, Rev. 22:17)! But... unfortunately the heart and pride of fallen man usually always gets in the way (Prov. 8:13-14, 16:18, 18:12, Matt. 23:37-38, John 5:40, Rev. 9:20-21)

The Bible Teaches:
Romans 5:8 - "But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us."

Sin separates us from God. God's Peace and Eternal Life are lost because of our sins.

Romans 5:12 - "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 3:23 - "For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God."

God has provided the gift of ETERNAL Life. This Life is found in His Son, Jesus Christ.

Romans 6:23 - "For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord."

You can have this Life! This Life is made possible through Jesus Christ.

Romans 5:1 - "Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ:"

Romans 1:16 - "For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek."

Romans 5:21 - "That as sin hath reigned unto death, even so might grace reign through righteousness unto eternal life by Jesus Christ our Lord."

Romans 10:9 - "That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved."

Romans 10:13 - "For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved."

Romans 10:10 - "For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation."

Dear God, I know that I am a transgressor against Your PERFECT RIGHTEOUSNESS and I need Your complete forgiveness to enter SAFELY and PERFECTLY into ETERNITY and into Thy HOLY PRESENCE. I believe with ALL my heart that You (Jesus Christ) died for ALL my TRANSGRESSIONS against You as Your Word clearly states and rose from the dead for my justification. I now REPENT and PLACE my complete trust in You as MY Lord and Savior and will follow You as the Lord of my Life.

May it be so!

The Kingdom of Heaven is at hand!


DJP I.F.



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