Tuesday, May 2, 2023

Jesus - Propitiation of sin

 

Jesus Christ died for the propitiation
of our sins.   Believe in Him, for by His name only 
can man be saved from eternal separation
from God the Father.

Thursday, February 2, 2023

I Interviewed an AI BOT about Salvation - (2 of 3)

 My Interview with AI BOT - Who is Jesus










ME:

but who is Jesus really - historically, he's just a man, right?

AI:

The identity of Jesus Christ is a matter of faith for Christians and a point of debate among people of different religious beliefs. From a historical perspective, Jesus of Nazareth lived in the first century and is widely recognized as a religious figure who had a significant impact on world history.

However, for Christians, Jesus is much more than just a historical figure. They believe that Jesus is the Son of God and that He came to earth to provide salvation for all people through His death and resurrection. Christians believe that Jesus is both fully human and fully divine and that He is the Savior of the world and the means by which people can have a right relationship with God.

Whether one believes that Jesus is just a man or the Son of God is a matter of personal faith, and people hold different beliefs based on their religious traditions and interpretations of the historical evidence.

ME:

How can God have a Son

AI:

The concept of God having a son is a central doctrine of Christianity and is rooted in the belief that Jesus Christ is the Son of God. In Christian theology, the concept of God having a son is seen as a mystery that transcends human understanding and is ultimately a matter of faith.

The idea that God has a son is expressed in the Bible, particularly in the New Testament, where Jesus is referred to as the Son of God and is described as having a unique relationship with God the Father. This relationship is described as being one of equality, yet also of distinction, with Jesus being fully God and fully human at the same time.

Christians believe that God the Father sent His son Jesus to the earth to redeem humanity from sin and death through His death on the cross and resurrection from the dead. They believe that through faith in Jesus, people can have eternal life and a right relationship with God.

The idea of God having a son is unique to Christianity and is not found in other religious traditions. How one understands this concept will depend on their faith and interpretation of the Bible.

ME:

You said Jesus is equal to God, and also His Son...

AI:

In Christian theology, Jesus is considered to be both fully God and fully human, a doctrine known as the "incarnation." This means that Jesus is equal in nature and essence to God the Father, while at the same time being distinct from Him as the Son.

The idea of the incarnation is rooted in the belief that God took on human form in the person of Jesus Christ to provide salvation for humanity. Christians believe that Jesus, as both God and man, lived a sinless life and died on the cross as a sacrifice for the sins of humanity.

This concept is expressed in several passages in the New Testament, where Jesus is referred to as both the Son of God and as one with God the Father. The idea of the incarnation is a central doctrine of Christianity and is a matter of faith for Christians, with different interpretations of how the divinity and humanity of Jesus are combined and expressed.

ME:

Does Jesus ever claim to be God?  if so, can you share those scripture verses.

AI:

Yes, Jesus claimed to be God in several passages in the New Testament. Here are a few examples:

·         John 8:58: "Jesus said to them, 'Truly, truly, I say to you, before Abraham was, I am.'"

·         John 10:30: "I and the Father are one."

·         John 14:9: "Jesus said to him, 'Have I been with you so long, and you still do not know me, Philip? Whoever has seen me has seen the Father. How can you say, 'Show us the Father'?'"

These verses and others like them, in which Jesus claimed to be equal with God, were the basis for the early Christian belief in the divinity of Jesus and were a significant factor in the controversy that eventually led to His crucifixion.

These verses are also the source of much debate and interpretation, with some people seeing them as evidence of Jesus' divinity, while others interpret them in a more metaphorical or symbolic sense. Ultimately, the interpretation of these verses and the belief in the divinity of Jesus is a matter of personal faith and religious tradition.

ME:
What does it mean "Son of Man"

AI:

"Son of Man" is a title used to refer to Jesus in the New Testament. It appears over 80 times in the four Gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John) and is one of the most common ways that Jesus referred to himself.

The phrase "Son of Man" has its roots in the Old Testament, where it was used as a general term for humanity. In the New Testament, Jesus takes on this title and uses it to refer to himself in a unique way. By using this phrase, Jesus was emphasizing his humanity, as well as his divine nature.

The exact meaning of "Son of Man" is a subject of debate among biblical scholars, but it is generally understood to convey the idea of Jesus as a representative of humanity. This title encompasses both his identity as a human being and his role as the Savior of humanity. It also highlights his role as the judge of humanity at the end of the world, as described in the book of Revelation.

In short, "Son of Man" is a significant title that conveys the dual nature of Jesus as both fully human and fully divine. It emphasizes his role as the Savior and Judge of humanity, and his unique relationship with God.

ME:

Would this have been considered blasphemy to the Jews of that time - Pharisees, Priests and Sadducees

AI:

Yes, the use of the title "Son of Man" by Jesus would have been considered blasphemy by many of the Jews of his time, including the Pharisees, Priests, and Sadducees. This is because they believed that only God was worthy of the title "Son of Man," and that claiming such a title for oneself was an act of blasphemy.

The Pharisees, Priests, and Sadducees were the religious leaders of Jewish society and were deeply committed to the laws and traditions of their faith. They believed that the Messiah would be a political and military leader who would restore the kingdom of Israel and overthrow their Roman oppressors.

However, Jesus' teachings and miracles, as well as his use of the title "Son of Man," challenged their understanding of the Messiah and their religious beliefs. They saw his claims of being the Son of Man as an assertion of equality with God, and thus considered it blasphemy.

This was one of the main reasons why they sought to oppose and discredit Jesus, and why they eventually sought to have him crucified. However, his resurrection and ascension into heaven affirmed his claims and validated his teachings, leading to the spread of the Christian faith throughout the world.


ME:

I have heard of the Trinity - what does this mean

AI:

The Trinity is a central doctrine in Christianity, and refers to the belief in the existence of one God in three persons: the Father, the Son (Jesus Christ), and the Holy Spirit. The doctrine of the Trinity teaches that these three persons are distinct but not separate, and that they are equal in their divine nature and attributes.

The concept of the Trinity is a complex one and is not explicitly stated in the Bible, but it is derived from a number of passages that suggest the coexistence of multiple divine persons within the one Godhead. For example, Jesus refers to the Father as his God and speaks of the Holy Spirit as a separate being, while the New Testament also speaks of the three persons of the Trinity as existing and working together in harmony.

The doctrine of the Trinity is one of the cornerstones of the Christian faith and has been widely accepted by the majority of Christian denominations. It is believed to be a fundamental aspect of the Christian understanding of the nature of God, and provides a basis for understanding the relationship between God, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit, and their roles in the salvation of humanity.

In summary, the Trinity is the Christian doctrine that teaches the existence of one God in three persons: the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, who are equal in their divine nature and attributes, and who exist and work together in harmony.

ME:

That's pretty deep - tell me about the Holy Spirit from Scripture

AI:

The Holy Spirit is a central figure in the Christian faith and is considered one of the three persons of the Trinity, along with the Father and the Son (Jesus Christ). The Holy Spirit is mentioned numerous times in the Bible and is described as having a variety of roles and functions.

In the Old Testament, the Holy Spirit is associated with creation, empowerment, and guidance. For example, in Genesis 1:2, the Holy Spirit is described as moving over the waters during the creation of the world. In the New Testament, the Holy Spirit is described as a helper and comforter, providing believers with strength and guidance in their lives.

The Holy Spirit is also associated with the birth and mission of Jesus, and is described as having descended upon him at his baptism. Throughout the New Testament, the Holy Spirit is depicted as having an active role in the lives of believers, empowering them to live lives of faith, to perform miracles, and to spread the gospel.

One of the most well-known functions of the Holy Spirit is the gift of speaking in tongues, which is described as a sign of the presence of the Holy Spirit in the life of a believer. The Holy Spirit is also associated with the process of sanctification, helping believers to grow in their faith and to become more like Jesus.

In summary, the Holy Spirit is an important figure in the Christian faith and is described in the Bible as having a variety of roles and functions, including creation, empowerment, guidance, comfort, and sanctification. The Holy Spirit is considered one of the three persons of the Trinity, and is a central figure in the lives of believers.

ME:

What part did the Holy Spirit have in the birth of Jesus?

AI:

The Holy Spirit played an important role in the birth of Jesus, as described in the New Testament. According to the Gospel of Matthew and the Gospel of Luke, the Holy Spirit was involved in the miraculous conception of Jesus.

In the Gospel of Matthew, it is written that Mary, the mother of Jesus, was found to be with child through the Holy Spirit. This means that the Holy Spirit was involved in the creation of Jesus in a supernatural way, bypassing the normal biological process of conception.

In the Gospel of Luke, it is written that the Holy Spirit came upon Mary and overshadowed her, resulting in the conception of Jesus. This passage emphasizes the supernatural nature of the birth of Jesus, and highlights the involvement of the Holy Spirit in this event.

The birth of Jesus through the Holy Spirit is considered a central doctrine in Christianity, and is seen as a fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies about the coming of a Messiah who would be born of a virgin. The Holy Spirit's involvement in the birth of Jesus is seen as a sign of the divine nature of Jesus and of the Holy Spirit's power and presence in the world.

In summary, the Holy Spirit played a crucial role in the birth of Jesus, as described in the New Testament. The Holy Spirit was involved in the miraculous conception of Jesus, bypassing the normal biological process, and is seen as a sign of the divine nature of Jesus and of the Holy Spirit's power and presence in the world.

ME:

what is the old testament prophecy about Jesus birth?

AI:

The Old Testament contains several prophecies that foretell the birth of Jesus, who is considered the Messiah (or savior) in Christianity. Some of the most well-known Old Testament prophecies about the birth of Jesus include:

Isaiah 7:14 - "Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign: The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son, and will call him Immanuel." This prophecy is considered by many Christians to be a foretelling of the birth of Jesus through the Virgin Mary.

Micah 5:2 - "But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, though you are small among the clans of Judah, out of you will come for me one who will be ruler over Israel, whose origins are from of old, from ancient times." This prophecy foretells the birthplace of Jesus, who was born in Bethlehem.

Jeremiah 31:15 - "This is what the Lord says: "A voice is heard in Ramah, mourning and great weeping, Rachel weeping for her children and refusing to be comforted, because they are no more." This prophecy is considered by many to be a foretelling of the massacre of the infants in Bethlehem, which is described in the New Testament as having taken place after the birth of Jesus.

Isaiah 9:6 - "For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace." This prophecy foretells the birth of a child who will have divine attributes and who will rule as a king.

These and other Old Testament prophecies are seen by Christians as evidence of the divine nature of Jesus and of the fulfillment of God's plan for the salvation of humanity. The birth of Jesus is considered a central event in the Christian faith and is celebrated as the birth of the Savior of the world.

ME:

what are the chances that one person could fulfill all of these prophecies

AI:

As a language model created by (cannot disclose), I do not have the ability to make subjective assessments or predictions. However, it is widely held by Christians that the likelihood of one person fulfilling all of the Old Testament prophecies regarding the birth of the Messiah is very low.

According to Christian theology, there were many specific prophecies about the Messiah in the Old Testament, such as the place of his birth (Bethlehem), the nature of his rule (as a king), and the manner of his death (crucifixion). Some Christians believe that the odds of one person fulfilling all of these prophecies by chance are astronomically low, and therefore see the fulfillment of these prophecies in Jesus as evidence of his divine nature and mission.

Critics, however, argue that the Old Testament prophecies are open to interpretation and that the fulfillment of these prophecies in Jesus is due to selective interpretation and cherry-picking of texts. They argue that the prophecies in question are vague and could be applied to many people, and that the New Testament authors had an interest in making it seem as though Jesus fulfilled them.

In any case, the question of the chances of one person fulfilling all of the Old Testament prophecies regarding the birth of the Messiah is a matter of personal belief and interpretation. Some people believe that the odds of fulfilling all of these prophecies by chance are very low, while others believe that the prophecies are not as specific or meaningful as they are often portrayed to be.

ME:

I thought the Messiah would come from the blood line of David, tying all the way back to Adam.  With Mary's miraculous conception from the Holy Spirit how is Jesus from the line of David.

AI:

According to Christian tradition, Jesus is considered to be a descendant of King David through his earthly father, Joseph. In the New Testament, the genealogy of Jesus is traced back to King David through Joseph in Matthew 1:1-16 and Luke 3:23-38.

Mary's miraculous conception by the Holy Spirit is seen by Christians as fulfilling the prophecy in Isaiah 7:14 that the Messiah would be born of a virgin. The belief is that Mary, a descendant of King David, was chosen by God to be the mother of Jesus, and that the Holy Spirit conceived Jesus in her womb. In this way, Jesus is considered to be both the Son of God and a descendant of King David.

This belief in the divine and human nature of Jesus is central to Christian theology and is a key aspect of the Christian doctrine of the Trinity. According to this doctrine, Jesus is both fully human and fully divine, and is seen as the fulfillment of God's promise to send a Savior to humanity. The belief that Jesus is both divine and a descendant of King David is an important part of the Christian understanding of who Jesus is and what he came to do.


Monday, January 30, 2023

I Interviewed an AI BOT about Salvation ( 1 of 3)

 My Salvation Interview with an AI BOT



ME:
Can you help me write a blog on John 3:16

AI:
Sure! Here's a concise blog post about John 3:16:

John 3:16 is one of the most well-known verses in the Bible. It states, "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life."

This verse conveys the message of God's immense love for humanity and His desire for all people to have eternal life through faith in Jesus Christ. The verse also highlights the sacrifice that God made by sending His son, Jesus, to die on the cross for the forgiveness of our sins.


John 3:16 is a crucial verse in understanding the message of the Bible and the gospel. It emphasizes the love and grace of God, which is freely given to all who believe in Jesus. This verse is a reminder that we can have eternal life through faith in Jesus, and that this gift is available to everyone, regardless of their background or past.


In conclusion, John 3:16 is a powerful reminder of God's love for humanity and the gift of eternal life that is available to all who believe in Jesus. Whether you are a seasoned Christian or just beginning your journey of faith, this verse is a source of comfort and hope, and a reminder of the love that God has for each one of us.

ME:
what do you mean grace of God

AI:
Grace refers to the unmerited or undeserved favor and blessings of God. In the context of Christianity, it is the gift of salvation that God offers to humanity through faith in Jesus Christ, despite our imperfections and sinfulness. Grace means that we do not have to earn or work for our salvation, but it is freely given to us by God. This concept is central to the gospel message, as it highlights God's love and mercy towards us, and the incredible sacrifice that Jesus made on the cross to redeem us. In other words, grace is the undeserved kindness of God that brings salvation and forgiveness to all who believe.

ME:
you said "our" imperfections - are you part of the our?

AI:
No, I am an AI language model created by (cannot disclose) and do not have personal experiences or beliefs. I am programmed to respond to questions and provide information to the best of my ability. The use of the word "our" in my previous response was meant in a general sense to refer to humanity's imperfections and sinfulness, not to include myself as an AI.

ME:
so God's grace is only for humans

AI:
Yes, according to Christian beliefs, God's grace is intended for humans. The Bible teaches that God's grace is offered to all people, regardless of their background or past, and that it is received through faith in Jesus Christ. The concept of grace is central to the gospel message, which is the good news that God offers salvation and forgiveness to all who believe in Jesus. In this sense, God's grace is a manifestation of His love and mercy towards humanity.

ME:
so God's grace is equally available to all mankind - black, white, indian, asian, chinese, man, woman, child

AI:
Yes, according to Christian teachings, God's grace is equally available to all people, regardless of their race, gender, age, or any other demographic factor. The Bible teaches that God loves all people and desires for all to receive His grace through faith in Jesus Christ. In this sense, God's grace is not limited by external factors, but is offered freely to all who believe in Jesus and receive Him as Lord and Savior. This is a core principle of Christianity, and one of the key messages of the gospel.

ME:
you keep referring to Christian teachings, do muslims not believe in the grace of God.

AI:
Muslims do believe in the concept of God's grace, but they have a different understanding of it than Christians. In Islam, God's grace is understood as His mercy, compassion, and forgiveness towards humanity. Muslims believe that God is merciful and benevolent, and that He offers forgiveness to those who repent and seek His forgiveness.
In Islam, the concept of grace is closely tied to the belief in predestination, which teaches that God has already determined the ultimate fate of all people, and that everything that happens in the world is part of His divine plan. According to this belief, God's grace is offered to those whom He has chosen, and it is not available to everyone equally.
While the understanding of God's grace may differ between Christianity and Islam, both religions emphasize the importance of God's mercy and forgiveness towards humanity. In both religions, the concept of grace is central to the understanding of God's relationship with humanity and the path to salvation.

ME:
so in Islam, you must earn God's mercy, where as in Christianity, God's grace is free to all and you don't have to earn it.

AI:
In Islam, the concept of earning God's mercy is closely tied to the belief in predestination and the idea that God has already determined the ultimate fate of all people. While Muslims are encouraged to perform good deeds and follow the teachings of Islam, they believe that their ultimate fate is in God's hands and that they cannot earn His mercy through their own efforts.
In Christianity, however, the concept of grace teaches that salvation and forgiveness are freely given by God to all who believe in Jesus Christ. Christians believe that they cannot earn God's grace or salvation through their own efforts, but that it is received by faith in Jesus. This is a central message of the gospel, and is often expressed through the idea that grace is unmerited or undeserved favor.
In both religions, the concept of grace/mercy is central to the understanding of God's relationship with humanity and the path to salvation. While the understanding of how this grace/mercy is obtained may differ, both religions emphasize the importance of God's mercy and forgiveness towards humanity.

ME:
I see. but grace and mercy aren't the same....can you explain the difference

AI:
Grace and mercy are closely related concepts, but they are not exactly the same thing.
Grace refers to the unmerited or undeserved favor of God. It is the free gift of salvation and forgiveness that God offers to humanity through faith in Jesus Christ, despite our imperfections and sinfulness. Grace means that we do not have to earn or work for our salvation, but it is freely given to us by God. This concept is central to the gospel message, as it highlights God's love and mercy towards us, and the incredible sacrifice that Jesus made on the cross to redeem us.
Mercy, on the other hand, is a characteristic of God that is closely related to grace. Mercy refers to God's compassion and forgiveness towards those who are in a vulnerable or pitiable state. It is the act of withholding the punishment that someone deserves and instead showing them kindness and compassion. In the context of salvation, mercy refers to God's forgiveness and compassion towards us, despite our sinfulness and imperfections.
In summary, grace and mercy are closely related concepts that describe different aspects of God's character and His relationship with humanity. While grace refers to the free gift of salvation and forgiveness that God offers, mercy refers to God's compassion and forgiveness towards those who are in a vulnerable or pitiable state. Both grace and mercy are central to the Christian understanding of God and the gospel message.


ME:
So if God gave us grace for our sins, why did Jesus have to die

AI:
The death of Jesus is central to the Christian understanding of salvation and the gospel message. According to Christian beliefs, Jesus died on the cross to pay the penalty for our sins, thus making it possible for us to receive God's grace and be reconciled to Him.
Before Jesus came to Earth, the penalty for sin was death, and people could only be reconciled to God by offering animal sacrifices as atonement for their sins. However, these sacrifices were only temporary and could not truly remove the guilt of sin. With the coming of Jesus, a new and permanent sacrifice was offered, as He died on the cross to pay the penalty for our sins.
Jesus' death on the cross made it possible for all people to receive God's grace and be reconciled to Him, without having to pay the penalty for their sins. This is because Jesus' death satisfied the justice of God and provided a permanent atonement for sin. Through faith in Jesus, people can receive forgiveness for their sins and receive the free gift of salvation.
In this sense, Jesus' death on the cross is the cornerstone of the gospel message, as it provides the means by which people can receive God's grace and be reconciled to Him. Without the death of Jesus, people would still be under the penalty of sin and unable to receive God's grace and forgiveness.

ME:
What is the penalty of sin

AI:
The penalty of sin in Christian beliefs is death. The Bible teaches that all people are sinners and fall short of God's perfect standard of righteousness. As a result of our sin, we are separated from God and under the penalty of death. This death is not just physical death, but also spiritual death, which means that our souls are separated from God and unable to experience eternal life in His presence.
In the Old Testament, the penalty of sin was often described as physical death, and the animal sacrifices offered as atonement for sin were seen as temporary remedies. However, with the coming of Jesus, a new and permanent sacrifice was offered, as He died on the cross to pay the penalty for our sins.
Through faith in Jesus, people can receive forgiveness for their sins and be reconciled to God, thereby avoiding the penalty of death. This is because Jesus' death on the cross satisfied the justice of God and provided a permanent atonement for sin, making it possible for all people to receive God's grace and be saved.
In summary, the penalty of sin in Christian beliefs is death, which is both physical and spiritual. Through faith in Jesus, people can receive forgiveness for their sins and be reconciled to God, thereby avoiding the penalty of death and experiencing eternal life in His presence.

ME:
so if I believe in Jesus I won't die

AI:
According to Christian beliefs, faith in Jesus does not guarantee that a person will not die physically. All people, regardless of their faith, will eventually die physically.
However, faith in Jesus does provide the assurance of eternal life in the presence of God after physical death. The Bible teaches that when a person believes in Jesus and is reconciled to God, their soul does not die with the body, but continues to live in the presence of God forever. In this sense, faith in Jesus provides the assurance of eternal life, and protects a person from spiritual death and separation from God.
In summary, faith in Jesus does not guarantee that a person will not die physically, but it provides the assurance of eternal life in the presence of God after physical death. By believing in Jesus, a person is reconciled to God and protected from spiritual death and separation from Him.

ME:
so if all people die a physical death, believing in Christ let's me have eternal life with Him; what happens if I don't believe in Christ.

AI:
According to Christian beliefs, if a person does not believe in Jesus Christ, they remain separated from God and under the penalty of death, both physically and spiritually. The Bible teaches that without faith in Jesus, people are unable to receive forgiveness for their sins and are condemned to an eternity separated from God.
In this sense, not believing in Jesus means that a person's soul is separated from God after physical death, and they experience a spiritual death that is permanent and irreversible. This spiritual death is often described as hell, a place of eternal separation from God and His presence.
In summary, if a person does not believe in Jesus, they remain separated from God and under the penalty of death, both physically and spiritually. This means that after physical death, their soul experiences an eternity separated from God in a place often described as hell.

ME:
but God's grace is for ALL mankind, why can't all mankind join Him in heaven

AI:
According to Christian beliefs, God's grace is indeed available to all mankind, but not all will choose to receive it. The Bible teaches that God desires all people to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth, but He also allows people to make their own choices, and some choose to reject His grace and salvation.
Belief in Jesus Christ is the means by which people can receive God's grace and be reconciled to Him, but not all will choose to do so. Those who do not believe in Jesus and receive God's grace remain separated from Him and cannot enter heaven, which is described as a place of eternal life in the presence of God.
In summary, God's grace is indeed available to all mankind, but not all will choose to receive it and believe in Jesus Christ. Those who do not believe in Jesus remain separated from God and cannot enter heaven. Belief in Jesus is the means by which people can receive God's grace and be reconciled to Him.

ME:
So all I have to do is believe in Jesus, there's nothing else needed?

AI:
According to Christian beliefs, faith in Jesus Christ is the most important requirement for salvation and reconciliation to God. The Bible teaches that belief in Jesus is the means by which people can receive God's grace and forgiveness for their sins.
However, faith in Jesus is not the only requirement, as the Bible also teaches that faith in Jesus should lead to a changed life and obedience to God's commands. A true faith in Jesus should result in a transformed life that reflects obedience to God and His ways.
In summary, faith in Jesus Christ is the most important requirement for salvation and reconciliation to God, but it is not the only requirement. The Bible teaches that a true faith in Jesus should lead to a changed life and obedience to God's commands, reflecting a transformed relationship with Him.

ME:
where in the bible does it say I should have a changed life and obedience to God's commands

AI:
The Bible teaches that faith in Jesus Christ should lead to a changed life and obedience to God's commands in several places. Here are some examples:

• James 2:17 says, "In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead." This verse teaches that a living faith in Jesus will result in actions that reflect obedience to God.

• Romans 6:17-18 says, "But thanks be to God that, though you used to be slaves to sin, you have come to obey from your heart the pattern of teaching that has now claimed your allegiance. You have been set free from sin and have become slaves to righteousness." This verse teaches that faith in Jesus should result in obedience to God's commands and a transformed life.

• 1 John 2:3-6 says, "We know that we have come to know him if we keep his commands. The man who says, 'I know him,' but does not do what he commands is a liar, and the truth is not in him. But if anyone obeys his word, God's love is truly made complete in him. This is how we know we are in him: Whoever claims to live in him must walk as Jesus did." This verse teaches that faith in Jesus should result in obedience to His commands, as a reflection of a true relationship with Him.

These are just a few examples of the many verses in the Bible that teach that faith in Jesus Christ should lead to a changed life and obedience to God's commands. The Bible teaches that a transformed life, reflecting obedience to God and His ways, is an essential aspect of a true faith in Jesus.

Tuesday, December 24, 2019

Prophecy 20: Isaiah 53:11


Daily Thoughts – December 24th   

Prophecy 20: Isaiah 53:11
"After the suffering of his soul, he will see the light of life and be satisfied; by his knowledge my righteous servant will justify many, and he will bear their iniquities." - Isaiah 53:11
Isaiah 53:11 and cross references
Merry Christmas to my friends and family.  As most of you know I love Christian music, especially this time of year. One of my favorite Christmas songs though is; "Mary did you know"; by Mark Lowry. It has been sung by many artists in many different settings, but I was fortunate enough to see Michael English sing it at a Christmas concert last year. For those of you unfamiliar, here are few of the lyrics:

Mary did you know
that your baby boy would save our sons and daughters
Did you know
that your baby boy has come to make you new.
This child that you delivered
will soon deliver you.

What was going through Mary's mind as the day of her child's birth drew near? As any woman 9 months along in her pregnancy, she could not have been comfortable. I'm sure her back ached, the weight of a healthy strong baby bearing down on her small body during that 2-3 day journey to Bethlehem, riding atop a donkey. Her mother wasn't there to hold her hand and help her through it. No, Mary was not having a "good" time carrying the Savior of the world.

As any mother would be, she deeply loved the child before he was born. She probably had sung hymns and psalms to him over the past 9 months. But, she did have the knowledge of who she was carrying. So, were there moments of extreme sorrow and pain that she went through when she thought of these prophecies from Isaiah which describe his life and death? She couldn't have known to what extent he would have to go to save the world, but she knew in her heart that her son would die one day for the iniquities of all mankind.

Christmas is but a few days away. I truly hope that these last few weeks you have pondered these Messianic Prophecies leading up to the birth of Jesus Christ with the same wonder and awe that I do. 400 years, 500 years even 1000 years before his birth, the prophets were detailing his life as only God Almighty could through their pen. This child came for one purpose only and that was to die for our sins that we might have eternal life one day. As you celebrate Christmas with your family and loved ones over the next few days, don't focus only on His birth, but on His purpose. Be blessed, my friends.

- Rich

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Monday, December 23, 2019

Prophecy 19: Isaiah 6:9-10


Daily Thoughts – December 23rd   

Prophecy 19: Acts 1:11
"Men of Galilee," they said, "why do you stand here looking into the sky? This same Jesus, who has been taken from you into heaven, will come back in the same way you have seen him go into heaven." - Acts 1:11
Acts 1:11 and cross references
It shall come to pass that in the city of David, she will bring forth a son and call him Immanuel, meaning God is with us. Read the scripture Isaiah 7:1-15 to your children on Christmas morning followed up by the traditional reading of
Luke 2:1-7. In this way, you are sure to continue the teaching from generation to generation of the foretelling of the Messiah and His birth.

You have been exposed to nearly 20 prophecies about the birth, life, and death of Jesus Christ, the Messiah. I have shared with you Isaiah 9:6 which discusses the Immaculate Conception and birth, of which we celebrate on the 25th. Now I want to share with you a messianic prophecy regarding His second coming. I do this so that you are aware and busy preparing for this day.

All throughout the Old and New Testaments prophets have foretold of the second coming of the Messiah to redeem and then judge the world. Regarding the first coming of the Messiah, there was a matter of several hundred years between their prophecies and His birth. I have shown you how even after hundreds of years the Israelites and Jewish leadership did not recognize Him when He was born. I am concerned that over the last 2000 or so years we have forgotten who it is we are looking for.

To avoid this disconnect the second time, it is crucial that you continue to deepen your relationship with Jesus Christ. The stronger you become in your faith and understanding of His grace, the more familiar and prepared you will be upon His return. The knowledge you have gained over the last 4 weeks is a solid foundation to emphasize that Christ alone is the long-awaited Messiah. With the acceptance of this fact, we must then prepare for the next prophecies that remain unanswered and ensure we are ready when they too are fulfilled.

A very Blessed and Merry Christmas to all of you. May you find the peace of the Savior as Mary, Joseph, and the Shepherds on that cold night in Bethlehem. The night the angels cried and sang Halleluiah to the King.

- Rich

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Sunday, December 22, 2019

Prophecy 18: Isaiah 6:9-10

Daily Thoughts – December 22nd   

Prophecy 18: Isaiah 6:9-10

"He said, "Go and tell this people:" 'Be ever hearing, but never understanding; be ever seeing, but never perceiving.' Make the heart of this people calloused; make their ears dull and close their eyes. Otherwise they might see with their eyes, hear with their ears, understand with their hearts, and turn and be healed." - Isaiah 6:9-10
Word pictures confuse me most of the time. Lisa used to use word pictures frequently to get her point across in discussions. She was really good at it, drawing on topics she knew I would have an interest in like Baseball, Football or anything technical. How she could take an everyday discussion on parenting our children or dealing with our finances or improving our communication and turn it into a parable that got her point across in a way that I could relate too. The problem is that they are only effective the first time they're used. Each subsequent time that a similar word picture or parable is used it tends to fall short of making the point for one reason or another.

The prophecy from Isaiah 6:9-10 reflects on God's directions after Isaiah stepped forward to serve God. God's direct command, "GO..." calls Isaiah out to a service for the most Holy. He is to prepare the people of Israel for the Messiah who will come preaching and teaching in manners that are not understood by man. In order that the people draw closer to the Messiah for answers to life’s questions. In turn, this allows them to be healed by Him.

Christ comes into His ministry filled with parables and stories to make His point. How many times have you read the story of the fig tree in Luke 13 and scratched your head as to the meaning? Or the parable in Luke 18 about the rich man regarding the camel going through the eye of a needle? Christ's parables are a way for His pupils and His followers to continue striving to learn more, rather than to quickly understand based on their own knowledge. For us today, these parables contain the same strengths. They draw us to Christ so that we may learn about His ministry and His message for the masses. In turn we are capable of then sharing that information with the people we come into contact with.

- Rich

© Sondove Enterprises, 2019

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Saturday, December 21, 2019

Prophecy 17: Isaiah 49:6

Daily Thoughts – December 21st

Prophecy 17: Isaiah 49:6

"He [the Lord] says: "It is too small a thing for you to be my servant, to restore the tribes of Jacob and bring back those of Israel I have kept. I will also make you a light for the Gentiles, that you may bring my salvation to the ends of the earth." - Isaiah 49:6
Do we need the Messiah today? Look around and ask yourself if you have it all under control. As we near the celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ, we should be reflecting on how this significant event; which literally split the calendar and brought hope to the nation of Israel; is alive in each of us. So what hope does he provide to the 21st century? We face issues of divisiveness, political unrest, global warming, perceived injustices, debates over absolute truth and morality, and a waning interest in the biblical truths. A recent study was done that showed in the late 1960s that 65% of Americans were Bible-believing Christians. Looking at the next generation (baby-boomers) it showed that only 35% of Americans profess themselves as Bible-believing Christians, and the following generation (busters) only 16%. Looking at the millennial and the gen-z generations, the predictions are that less than 5% will be Bible-believing Christians. Many would say that they believe in Jesus Christ, but that most religions are equally relevant in finding eternal salvation. So we need to reflect on what has changed in the last 50 years that has driven this decline in Christian beliefs?

The Messiah came to provide salvation for all man-kind, the tribes of Israel as well as the Gentiles. The prophecies we have observed over the last 3 weeks have all pointed to one individual, God's Messiah as the means to salvation. This foundational truth straight from the scriptures was critical for the people in Israel at the time of Isaiah's writing no more so than it is critical for us today.

All throughout the New Testament, we find examples of Jesus Christ preaching God's message to the masses. He was not segregating the Jewish brethren from the Gentiles. His miracles were upon the lepers, the Romans, the Samaritans as well as the Jewish. He forgave the sins of people from every walk of life and even broke bread with sinners and tax collectors. As prophesied in Isaiah 49 - the Messiah will be a light to the Gentiles and bring salvation to the ends of the earth. Paul the apostle references this once again in Acts 13:47 in his dialogue with the Jewish leaders and converts.

This is our mission as well my brothers and sisters in Christ. We have a generation all around us in need of hearing the truths from the bible. Take this Christmas season to share God's plan of salvation with those around you, and with those in your network. Be blessed as you spread His news.

- Rich

© Sondove Enterprises, 2019

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