The social gospel?

[Johann]

Once again theology...you study the Bible with your own intellect.

Freedom is understood in one’s spirit, we are set free from sin in our spirit...not your theology..I’ve already posted scripture regarding being set free from sin, unfortunately you have no understanding of what it means in your spirit.

Your understanding comes from theology and Got..intellect...

You aren’t set free in your intellect..you’re set free in your spirit....we have Living communion with God via His Spirit.

You don’t understand that...your intellect tells you that the penned word is Alive in the Spirit...it’s not.

How do you exegete Scripture, @Ritajanice? Do you not read the Bible, feeling there's no need to test your experience against what is written? How does the Holy Spirit bring things to your remembrance then?



Regeneration: Cross References
To understand the concept of regeneration comprehensively, it is helpful to consider various cross-references from both the Old and New Testaments. These references provide a broader biblical context and illustrate how regeneration is woven throughout the narrative of Scripture. Correct?

Old Testament Prefigurations
Ezekiel 36:25-27:

"I will sprinkle clean water on you, and you shall be clean from all your uncleannesses, and from all your idols I will cleanse you. And I will give you a new heart, and a new spirit I will put within you. And I will remove the heart of stone from your flesh and give you a heart of flesh. And I will put my Spirit within you, and cause you to walk in my statutes and be careful to obey my rules."
Jeremiah 31:33:

"For this is the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel after those days, declares the Lord: I will put my law within them, and I will write it on their hearts. And I will be their God, and they shall be my people."
New Testament Teachings
John 3:3-8:

"Jesus answered him, 'Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born again he cannot see the kingdom of God.' Nicodemus said to him, 'How can a man be born when he is old? Can he enter a second time into his mother's womb and be born?' Jesus answered, 'Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God. That which is born of the flesh is flesh, and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit. Do not marvel that I said to you, "You must be born again." The wind blows where it wishes, and you hear its sound, but you do not know where it comes from or where it goes. So it is with everyone who is born of the Spirit.'"
Titus 3:5:

"He saved us, not because of works done by us in righteousness, but according to his own mercy, by the washing of regeneration and renewal of the Holy Spirit."
2 Corinthians 5:17:

"Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come."
1 Peter 1:3:

"Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! According to his great mercy, he has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead."
Ephesians 2:4-5:

"But God, being rich in mercy, because of the great love with which he loved us, even when we were dead in our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ—by grace you have been saved."
Pauline Theology on Regeneration and New Life
Romans 6:4-5:

"We were buried therefore with him by baptism into death, in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, we too might walk in newness of life. For if we have been united with him in a death like his, we shall certainly be united with him in a resurrection like his."
Galatians 2:20:

"I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. And the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me."
Ephesians 4:22-24:

"To put off your old self, which belongs to your former manner of life and is corrupt through deceitful desires, and to be renewed in the spirit of your minds, and to put on the new self, created after the likeness of God in true righteousness and holiness."
Romans 8:9-11:

"You, however, are not in the flesh but in the Spirit, if in fact the Spirit of God dwells in you. Anyone who does not have the Spirit of Christ does not belong to him. But if Christ is in you, although the body is dead because of sin, the Spirit is life because of righteousness. If the Spirit of him who raised Jesus from the dead dwells in you, he who raised Christ Jesus from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies through his Spirit who dwells in you."

Practical Implications and Assurance
Ephesians 1:13-14:

"In him you also, when you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation, and believed in him, were sealed with the promised Holy Spirit, who is the guarantee of our inheritance until we acquire possession of it, to the praise of his glory."

Galatians 5:22-23:

"But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law."

Philippians 2:12-13:

"Therefore, my beloved, as you have always obeyed, so now, not only as in my presence but much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you, both to will and to work for his good pleasure."

Looking at all these cross-references, it's clear that the idea of regeneration is deeply rooted in the Bible. It's not just a theological concept but a transformative experience that runs through the entire narrative of Scripture. Regeneration, as depicted in these verses, is all about God’s grace at work, turning us into new creations in Christ. This spiritual rebirth changes everything, giving us a fresh start and empowering us to live in a way that truly reflects our renewed nature and our relationship with God. It's a foundational theme that ties together our understanding of salvation and Christian living.

Glad to note your "tone" has been softened and you will not agree as to this, and there is so much more!
J.

 

[Behold]

Thy sins be forgiven thee;

Absolutely True, and the reason that Jesus told those whom He'd forgiven, to "go and sin no more" is because He had not died yet to become for them..

A.) "God Hath made Jesus to be sin for us".. .as "the ONE TIME... Eternal Sacrifice for sin"..

= So, once Jesus became that, then all Believers are eternally pardoned, and established as "one with God", "in Christ."

NO one, was "in Christ", "born again", .. until AFTER Jesus died on The Cross..

We understand that Peter helped 3000 become "the Church", and that is because Jesus had now died on the Cross to make SALVATION available for them....

 

[Behold]

Have you read the OT yet? Look up forgiveness and mercy from God before the coming of Christ..

There is no "forgiveness in Christ" in the OT, as Jesus was not offered on the Cross as Forgiveness for the sin of the world, in the OT.

The OT ends with Malachi, and Jesus was born, 450 Yrs after Malachi, died.

Jesus is the author of the NT, the New Covenant, and the creator of the "body of Christ", that is found created in the NT, exactly when Jesus Died on the Cross and was Resurrected.

 

[Johann]

In Colossians 1:9-10Paul prayed that we would be filled with the knowledge of His will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding. That we would have a walk worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing to Him, being fruitful in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God

Why? By NOT reading the Scriptures?

4) "And to desire that ye might be filled with the knowledge” (kai aitoumenoi hina pierothete ten ;epignosin) "And asking (God) in order that ye may be filled with the full knowledge;" Rom_12:2; Eph_5:10; Eph_5:17. It is a worthy thought that one may know the will of, God through prayer, Act_9:6.

5) "Of his Will" (tou thelematos autou) "of the will of God"- Joh_7:17, Luk_11:9-13.

6) "In all wisdom and understanding" (en pase sophia kai sunesei pneumatike) "In wisdom and spiritual understanding." Such comes both through study of the Word and prayer in the Spirit, Jas_1:5; Eph_1:8.

A Prisoner's Prayer
1. He prayed that they might know - v.9 Col_1:9
2. He prayed for their obedience - v.10 Col_1:10
3. He prayed that they would be strong - v. 11 Col_1:11
4. He prayed that they would be grateful - v. 12 Col_1:12

knowledge of his will -- Refers to the believers’ awareness of Christ’s desires for how they ought to conduct themselves (see vv. 10–12).

spiritual wisdom -- The biblical conception of wisdom is oriented around God as the source of all wisdom; a wise person is a godly person (Hos_14:9; Col_4:5; Rom_16:19).





Colossians 1:1-8: Introduction and Thanksgiving
Paul's Greeting (vv. 1-2): Paul opens his letter with a greeting, identifying himself as an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God, and extending grace and peace to the believers in Colossae.

Thanksgiving for the Colossians' Faith (vv. 3-8): Paul expresses his gratitude for the Colossians' faith in Christ Jesus and their love for all the saints. He mentions that this faith and love spring from the hope laid up for them in heaven, which they heard about in the word of truth, the gospel. He acknowledges the impact of Epaphras, a faithful minister of Christ, who has informed Paul and his companions of the Colossians' love in the Spirit.

Colossians 1:9-14: Paul’s Prayer for the Colossians
Prayer for Spiritual Growth (vv. 9-10): Paul prays continuously for the Colossians, asking that they may be filled with the knowledge of God's will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding. The purpose of this knowledge is so that they may live lives worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing to Him, bearing fruit in every good work, and growing in the knowledge of God.

Further Spiritual Strength and Thanksgiving (vv. 11-14): Paul continues his prayer by asking that they be strengthened with all power according to God's glorious might, so they may have great endurance and patience, joyfully giving thanks to the Father. He reminds them that God has qualified them to share in the inheritance of the saints in light, delivering them from the domain of darkness and transferring them to the kingdom of His beloved Son, in whom they have redemption, the forgiveness of sins.

Detailed Explanation of Colossians 1:9-10
"For this reason, we also, since the day we heard it, do not cease to pray for you" (v. 9a): Paul underscores his continuous prayer for the Colossians since he heard of their faith and love. This emphasizes his pastoral care and concern for their ongoing spiritual development.
"And to ask that you may be filled with the knowledge of His will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding" (v. 9b): Paul's primary request is for the Colossians to be filled with a deep and comprehensive understanding of God's will. This involves not just intellectual knowledge but wisdom and spiritual insight that can only come from the Holy Spirit.
"That you may walk worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing to Him" (v. 10a): The purpose of this knowledge and understanding is to enable the believers to live in a manner that is consistent with their calling as Christians. A "worthy walk" implies a lifestyle that honors and reflects the character and teachings of Jesus.

"Being fruitful in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God" (v. 10b): Paul prays for their practical outworking of faith through good deeds, and for continuous growth in their personal relationship with God. Fruitfulness in good works is a natural outcome of knowing God’s will, and this in turn leads to a deeper understanding of God Himself.

In Colossians 1:9-10, Paul is praying for the believers in Colossae to be filled with a profound understanding of God's will, which would empower them to live lives that honor God, characterized by fruitful works and continual growth in their knowledge of God. This prayer reflects the holistic nature of Christian maturity, combining knowledge, wisdom, practical obedience, and ongoing spiritual growth.

 

[Episkopos]

Absolutely True, and the reason that Jesus told those whom He'd forgiven, to "go and sin no more" is because He had not died yet to become for them..

A.) "God Hath made Jesus to be sin for us".. .as "the ONE TIME... Eternal Sacrifice for sin"..

= So, once Jesus became that, then all Believers are eternally pardoned, and established as "one with God", "in Christ."

NO one, was "in Christ", "born again", .. until AFTER Jesus died on The Cross..

We understand that Peter helped 3000 become "the Church", and that is because Jesus had now died on the Cross to make SALVATION available for them....

You are out there in space...and show to all the folly of an indoctrinated mind. For you salvation is the ability to sin and get away with it. Good luck with that.

 

[Episkopos]

There is no "forgiveness in Christ" in the OT, as Jesus was not offered on the Cross as Forgiveness for the sin of the world, in the OT.

The OT ends with Malachi, and Jesus was born, 450 Yrs after Malachi, died.

Jesus is the author of the NT, the New Covenant, and the creator of the "body of Christ", that is found created in the NT, exactly when Jesus Died on the Cross and was Resurrected.

An indoctrinated mind is a scary thing. Delusional thinking is known by its departure from reality. I know that some who normally agree with you...based on self-interest, will see some of your posts as outlandish. Do you deny that Jesus is God too?

Forgiveness from God is the same as forgiveness from Christ. Of course you will deny this. Are you saying that forgiveness in Christ means that it was Jesus that couldn't forgive us...until He died? But then you read that Jesus forgave many before His death, including the paralytic and even the Romans. So there goes that theory. The fact is you have no truth at all in your worlds...and you don't even care about it.

 

[Johann]

There is no "forgiveness in Christ" in the OT, as Jesus was not offered on the Cross as Forgiveness for the sin of the world, in the OT.

The OT ends with Malachi, and Jesus was born, 450 Yrs after Malachi, died.

Jesus is the author of the NT, the New Covenant, and the creator of the "body of Christ", that is found created in the NT, exactly when Jesus Died on the Cross and was Resurrected.

Correct-
It's fascinating to see how the concept of forgiveness and salvation unfolds throughout the Bible. In the Old Testament, you won't find explicit mention of "forgiveness in Christ" because, at that time, Jesus hadn't yet come into the world and offered Himself as a sacrifice for our sins.

In the Old Testament, the focus was on the sacrificial system, where animals were offered to atone for the people's sins. This was a temporary measure, as we see in Leviticus 16:34, where the Day of Atonement is established. The blood of bulls and goats was used to cover sins, but it was never meant to be a permanent solution (Hebrews 10:4).

The Old Testament prophets, like Isaiah, did, however, hint at a coming Messiah who would bring ultimate salvation. Isaiah 53:5-6 speaks powerfully about the suffering servant who would be "pierced for our transgressions" and "crushed for our iniquities." These verses are prophetic, pointing towards Jesus and His sacrificial death on the cross.

When we move to the New Testament, we see the fulfillment of these prophecies. The New Testament starts with the Gospels, which tell the story of Jesus’ birth, life, death, and resurrection. This new covenant is explicitly mentioned in Luke 22:20, where Jesus, during the Last Supper, says, "This cup is the new covenant in my blood, which is poured out for you." Here, Jesus establishes a new relationship between God and humanity through His sacrificial death.

Jesus’ death on the cross is the pivotal event that changes everything. In John 19:30, Jesus declares, "It is finished," signifying that His work of atonement was complete. His resurrection, as recorded in Matthew 28:5-6, confirms His victory over sin and death, and establishes Him as the author of the New Covenant.

Moreover, Ephesians 2:13-16 explains how Jesus' death reconciles us to God, creating peace and breaking down the barriers between us and God. Paul elaborates on this new creation in 2 Corinthians 5:17, stating, "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!"

The concept of the "body of Christ" is also introduced in the New Testament, especially in Paul’s letters. In 1 Corinthians 12:27, Paul says, "Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it." This idea depicts the unity and of believers who are now part of Christ’s body, the church, which came into being because of Jesus' sacrifice and resurrection.

So, while the Old Testament sets the stage with promises and prophecies, it’s in the New Testament that we see the fulfillment of God’s plan for forgiveness through Christ. Jesus' death and resurrection are the foundation of our faith and the new covenant, making Him the central figure in the story of salvation.

And for those not understanding the significance of tetelestai--
When Jesus cried out "It is finished" on the cross, He declared the completion and fulfillment of His mission to accomplish salvation for humanity. This statement carries profound theological significance and is recorded in the Gospel of John 19:30:

Meaning of "It is finished"
Meaning: Jesus' declaration "It is finished" (Greek: "Τετέλεσται", tetelestai) signifies that His work of redemption and atonement was fully accomplished. It indicates that every aspect of His mission to reconcile humanity to God through His sacrificial death was successfully completed.

Context: In the Jewish context of the time, "tetelestai" was a term used in various settings to indicate the completion or fulfillment of a task or a debt being paid in full. Here, Jesus uses it to declare the culmination of His earthly ministry and the achievement of salvation for all who would believe in Him.

By saying "It is finished," Jesus affirms that His death on the cross achieved forgiveness of sins (Colossians 2:13-14), reconciliation with God (2 Corinthians 5:18-19), and victory over sin and death (Romans 6:9-10). It signifies the end of the Old Covenant sacrificial system, as His sacrifice became the ultimate and final offering for sin (Hebrews 9:11-15).

Greek Words: "Τετέλεσται" (Tetelestai)
Etymology: The Greek word "tetelestai" comes from the verb "teleo," which means "to complete, fulfill, or finish." The form "tetelestai" is in the perfect tense, indicating a completed action with ongoing effects. It can be translated as "It has been finished," emphasizing the enduring significance of Jesus' accomplishment.

Usage: Besides its historical and cultural context, the term "tetelestai" holds profound spiritual meaning for Christians. It signifies not only the completion of Jesus' earthly ministry but also the assurance of salvation and the fulfillment of God's redemptive plan through His Son.

When Jesus cried out "It is finished" on the cross, He declared the fulfillment of His mission to bring salvation to humanity. The Greek word "tetelestai" encapsulates this completion, emphasizing that through His sacrificial death, Jesus accomplished everything necessary for the forgiveness of sins and reconciliation with God.

Shalom Achi.

 

[Behold]

You are out there in space..

You are the religious space cadet, little one.

Consider that my Testimony whereby i received Yeshua as my Savior, who died for my sins, so that by His shed blood and death and resurrection, God could forgive me.. redeem me, justify me, and sanctify me as = "made righteous", whereupon i received the new Birth as a new "Creation in Christ". "born again".

See that Testamony?
That is A CHRISTIAN understanding of : Salvation., and the real Christian's on this forum, will TAKE NOTICE and FEEL IT.... because it happened to them, just like that.. also.

Your posted Salvation Testimony, has no Faith in Christ, no forgiveness of sin, and no Cross in it.. And it would be just like your type to revise it, so that it tries to match mine... but if you do that, its just more empty words.... meaningless.
It would be best for you, if you didnt go there.....

And what is more, is you have stated that the Cross is NOT About forgiveness of Sin, when in Fact that is the Reason Jesus died on The Cross, and you can deny that truth again if you like, as at this point, as you are clearly revealed.. @Episkopos

 

[Episkopos]

One thing that will NEVER be considered among the self-interested ones...is that God is holy and that is the purpose of the atonement. Old Slew-foot has them convinced they will never be holy...or that it will take a lifetime to do so.

Does it take a lifetime to be forgiven? Of course not. And this idea appeals to self-interest. Who doesn't want to get away with sin, right? This is the level that people are at that I'm trying to get to see the truth.

But holiness...as a gift by grace...being as quick as being forgiven. In fact INSTEAD of being just forgiven. NO WAY!

No faith. No intimacy with God. No knowledge of God. No understanding.

Forgiveness is for the heathen. Holiness is for His people.

 

[Behold]

Forgiveness is for the heathen.

FORGIVENESS is for the LOST, the SINNER....

Like this... "Jesus came to save SINNERS".

Its your self righteous ministry, ive noticed, to deny the Cross as God's Forgiveness of sin for : "ALL who believe in Jesus".

 

[Johann]

One thing that will NEVER be considered among the self-interested ones...is that God is holy and that is the purpose of the atonement. Old Slew-foot has them convinced they will never be holy...or that it will take a lifetime to do so.

This is YOUR gospel @Episkopos and I do notice you don't mention sanctification or that sanctification is a second blessing, much like that of the Wesleyan Holiness Movement.

Understanding Holiness
Jesus' Unique Holiness: According to Christian belief, Jesus Christ is considered uniquely holy. He is the Son of God, fully divine, and without sin (Hebrews 4:15). His holiness is intrinsic to His divine nature and cannot be equaled by any human being.

Human Condition: On the other hand, human beings are born with a sinful nature due to the Fall (Romans 5:12). This sin nature separates us from God and makes it impossible for us to attain the same level of holiness as Jesus possesses on our own merit.

Biblical Perspective
Call to Holiness: While we cannot achieve Jesus' absolute holiness, Scripture calls believers to strive for holiness in our lives. 1 Peter 1:15-16 says, "But as he who called you is holy, you also be holy in all your conduct, since it is written, 'You shall be holy, for I am holy.'" This command reflects God's desire for His people to reflect His character in our thoughts, words, and actions.

Progressive Sanctification: Through the work of the Holy Spirit, believers experience a process of sanctification—becoming more like Christ over time (2 Corinthians 3:18). This process involves growing in obedience, love, and righteousness, although we will not achieve perfection until we are glorified in heaven.

be holy -- Sanctified, set apart for God. Holiness can refer to being blameless and without sin, but it also describes a person set apart for service to God.
Here Peter cites the Septuagint version of Lev_19:2 to exhort Christians to lead holy lives.

conversation -- "Conduct, behavior", "living." Both in the OT and the NT periods, God calls His people to holiness - to reflect His character (see Lev_19:2; Lev_20:7; Lev_20:26).

Practical Application
Imitating Christ: While we cannot attain Jesus' perfect holiness, we are called to imitate His example of love, humility, and obedience (1 John 2:6). This involves surrendering our lives to God, relying on His strength, and striving to live in accordance with His Word.

Hope in Christ: Ultimately, our hope for holiness rests in Christ alone. Through His sacrificial death and resurrection, we are forgiven of our sins and empowered by the Holy Spirit to live lives pleasing to God (Colossians 1:22; Philippians 2:13).


In conclusion, while we are not as holy as Jesus in His divine perfection, Scripture calls us to pursue holiness and to reflect Christ's character in our lives. Our sanctification is a process that continues throughout our lives, guided by the Holy Spirit, and rooted in our relationship with Jesus Christ. Through Him, we have forgiveness, transformation, and the hope of one day being made perfect in His presence.
J.

 

[Ritajanice]

Why? By NOT reading the Scriptures?

4) "And to desire that ye might be filled with the knowledge” (kai aitoumenoi hina pierothete ten ;epignosin) "And asking (God) in order that ye may be filled with the full knowledge;" Rom_12:2; Eph_5:10; Eph_5:17. It is a worthy thought that one may know the will of, God through prayer, Act_9:6.

5) "Of his Will" (tou thelematos autou) "of the will of God"- Joh_7:17, Luk_11:9-13.

6) "In all wisdom and understanding" (en pase sophia kai sunesei pneumatike) "In wisdom and spiritual understanding." Such comes both through study of the Word and prayer in the Spirit, Jas_1:5; Eph_1:8.

A Prisoner's Prayer
1. He prayed that they might know - v.9 Col_1:9
2. He prayed for their obedience - v.10 Col_1:10
3. He prayed that they would be strong - v. 11 Col_1:11
4. He prayed that they would be grateful - v. 12 Col_1:12

knowledge of his will -- Refers to the believers’ awareness of Christ’s desires for how they ought to conduct themselves (see vv. 10–12).

spiritual wisdom -- The biblical conception of wisdom is oriented around God as the source of all wisdom; a wise person is a godly person (Hos_14:9; Col_4:5; Rom_16:19).





Colossians 1:1-8: Introduction and Thanksgiving
Paul's Greeting (vv. 1-2): Paul opens his letter with a greeting, identifying himself as an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God, and extending grace and peace to the believers in Colossae.

Thanksgiving for the Colossians' Faith (vv. 3-8): Paul expresses his gratitude for the Colossians' faith in Christ Jesus and their love for all the saints. He mentions that this faith and love spring from the hope laid up for them in heaven, which they heard about in the word of truth, the gospel. He acknowledges the impact of Epaphras, a faithful minister of Christ, who has informed Paul and his companions of the Colossians' love in the Spirit.

Colossians 1:9-14: Paul’s Prayer for the Colossians
Prayer for Spiritual Growth (vv. 9-10): Paul prays continuously for the Colossians, asking that they may be filled with the knowledge of God's will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding. The purpose of this knowledge is so that they may live lives worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing to Him, bearing fruit in every good work, and growing in the knowledge of God.

Further Spiritual Strength and Thanksgiving (vv. 11-14): Paul continues his prayer by asking that they be strengthened with all power according to God's glorious might, so they may have great endurance and patience, joyfully giving thanks to the Father. He reminds them that God has qualified them to share in the inheritance of the saints in light, delivering them from the domain of darkness and transferring them to the kingdom of His beloved Son, in whom they have redemption, the forgiveness of sins.

Detailed Explanation of Colossians 1:9-10
"For this reason, we also, since the day we heard it, do not cease to pray for you" (v. 9a): Paul underscores his continuous prayer for the Colossians since he heard of their faith and love. This emphasizes his pastoral care and concern for their ongoing spiritual development.
"And to ask that you may be filled with the knowledge of His will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding" (v. 9b): Paul's primary request is for the Colossians to be filled with a deep and comprehensive understanding of God's will. This involves not just intellectual knowledge but wisdom and spiritual insight that can only come from the Holy Spirit.
"That you may walk worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing to Him" (v. 10a): The purpose of this knowledge and understanding is to enable the believers to live in a manner that is consistent with their calling as Christians. A "worthy walk" implies a lifestyle that honors and reflects the character and teachings of Jesus.

"Being fruitful in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God" (v. 10b): Paul prays for their practical outworking of faith through good deeds, and for continuous growth in their personal relationship with God. Fruitfulness in good works is a natural outcome of knowing God’s will, and this in turn leads to a deeper understanding of God Himself.

In Colossians 1:9-10, Paul is praying for the believers in Colossae to be filled with a profound understanding of God's will, which would empower them to live lives that honor God, characterized by fruitful works and continual growth in their knowledge of God. This prayer reflects the holistic nature of Christian maturity, combining knowledge, wisdom, practical obedience, and ongoing spiritual growth.

You don’t needs reams and reams of scripture or other people’s commentaries...to receive spiritual understanding..

It comes after the Living spirit birth..we grow in spiritual understanding because we are a spirit child of God ...he witnesses Gods truth to our spirit , brings us to a place of understanding in the spirit...then my friend we check it out with the penned word..

We must be Born Of The Spirit to understand spiritual matters.

Without the Spirit, your just posting what you understand in your intellect.

Still you don’t answer my spirit questions?

 

[Ritajanice]

@Episkopos ..did you see my question?

Are you saying that the cross isn’t about forgiveness?

You told me it was on another thread?

Please explain?

 

[Episkopos]

This is YOUR gospel @Episkopos and I do notice you don't mention sanctification or that sanctification is a second blessing, much like that of the Wesleyan Holiness Movement.

Understanding Holiness
Jesus' Unique Holiness: According to Christian belief, Jesus Christ is considered uniquely holy. He is the Son of God, fully divine, and without sin (Hebrews 4:15). His holiness is intrinsic to His divine nature and cannot be equaled by any human being.

Human Condition: On the other hand, human beings are born with a sinful nature due to the Fall (Romans 5:12). This sin nature separates us from God and makes it impossible for us to attain the same level of holiness as Jesus possesses on our own merit.

Biblical Perspective
Call to Holiness: While we cannot achieve Jesus' absolute holiness, Scripture calls believers to strive for holiness in our lives. 1 Peter 1:15-16 says, "But as he who called you is holy, you also be holy in all your conduct, since it is written, 'You shall be holy, for I am holy.'" This command reflects God's desire for His people to reflect His character in our thoughts, words, and actions.

Progressive Sanctification: Through the work of the Holy Spirit, believers experience a process of sanctification—becoming more like Christ over time (2 Corinthians 3:18). This process involves growing in obedience, love, and righteousness, although we will not achieve perfection until we are glorified in heaven.

be holy -- Sanctified, set apart for God. Holiness can refer to being blameless and without sin, but it also describes a person set apart for service to God.
Here Peter cites the Septuagint version of Lev_19:2 to exhort Christians to lead holy lives.

conversation -- "Conduct, behavior", "living." Both in the OT and the NT periods, God calls His people to holiness - to reflect His character (see Lev_19:2; Lev_20:7; Lev_20:26).

Practical Application
Imitating Christ: While we cannot attain Jesus' perfect holiness, we are called to imitate His example of love, humility, and obedience (1 John 2:6). This involves surrendering our lives to God, relying on His strength, and striving to live in accordance with His Word.

Hope in Christ: Ultimately, our hope for holiness rests in Christ alone. Through His sacrificial death and resurrection, we are forgiven of our sins and empowered by the Holy Spirit to live lives pleasing to God (Colossians 1:22; Philippians 2:13).


In conclusion, while we are not as holy as Jesus in His divine perfection, Scripture calls us to pursue holiness and to reflect Christ's character in our lives. Our sanctification is a process that continues throughout our lives, guided by the Holy Spirit, and rooted in our relationship with Jesus Christ. Through Him, we have forgiveness, transformation, and the hope of one day being made perfect in His presence.
J.

Humanistic propaganda. You think I'm avoiding sanctification by speaking about holiness?

 

[Johann]

You don’t needs reams and reams of scripture or other people’s commentaries...to receive spiritual understanding..

So by your own admission there is no need to read our Bibles and how are you going to test YOUR experience against what stands written-Perfect Tense?
How is the Holy Spirit co-witnessing with your spirit when you don't even know what is written? How are you testing others, and yourself? By what standard?

Hey-I need to study the Scriptures, daily and if this "irks" you not my problem.

 

[Ritajanice]

How do you exegete Scripture, @Ritajanice? Do you not read the Bible, feeling there's no need to test your experience against what is written? How does the Holy Spirit bring things to your remembrance then?



Regeneration: Cross References
To understand the concept of regeneration comprehensively, it is helpful to consider various cross-references from both the Old and New Testaments. These references provide a broader biblical context and illustrate how regeneration is woven throughout the narrative of Scripture. Correct?

Old Testament Prefigurations
Ezekiel 36:25-27:

"I will sprinkle clean water on you, and you shall be clean from all your uncleannesses, and from all your idols I will cleanse you. And I will give you a new heart, and a new spirit I will put within you. And I will remove the heart of stone from your flesh and give you a heart of flesh. And I will put my Spirit within you, and cause you to walk in my statutes and be careful to obey my rules."
Jeremiah 31:33:

"For this is the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel after those days, declares the Lord: I will put my law within them, and I will write it on their hearts. And I will be their God, and they shall be my people."
New Testament Teachings
John 3:3-8:

"Jesus answered him, 'Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born again he cannot see the kingdom of God.' Nicodemus said to him, 'How can a man be born when he is old? Can he enter a second time into his mother's womb and be born?' Jesus answered, 'Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God. That which is born of the flesh is flesh, and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit. Do not marvel that I said to you, "You must be born again." The wind blows where it wishes, and you hear its sound, but you do not know where it comes from or where it goes. So it is with everyone who is born of the Spirit.'"
Titus 3:5:

"He saved us, not because of works done by us in righteousness, but according to his own mercy, by the washing of regeneration and renewal of the Holy Spirit."
2 Corinthians 5:17:

"Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come."
1 Peter 1:3:

"Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! According to his great mercy, he has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead."
Ephesians 2:4-5:

"But God, being rich in mercy, because of the great love with which he loved us, even when we were dead in our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ—by grace you have been saved."
Pauline Theology on Regeneration and New Life
Romans 6:4-5:

"We were buried therefore with him by baptism into death, in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, we too might walk in newness of life. For if we have been united with him in a death like his, we shall certainly be united with him in a resurrection like his."
Galatians 2:20:

"I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. And the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me."
Ephesians 4:22-24:

"To put off your old self, which belongs to your former manner of life and is corrupt through deceitful desires, and to be renewed in the spirit of your minds, and to put on the new self, created after the likeness of God in true righteousness and holiness."
Romans 8:9-11:

"You, however, are not in the flesh but in the Spirit, if in fact the Spirit of God dwells in you. Anyone who does not have the Spirit of Christ does not belong to him. But if Christ is in you, although the body is dead because of sin, the Spirit is life because of righteousness. If the Spirit of him who raised Jesus from the dead dwells in you, he who raised Christ Jesus from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies through his Spirit who dwells in you."

Practical Implications and Assurance
Ephesians 1:13-14:

"In him you also, when you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation, and believed in him, were sealed with the promised Holy Spirit, who is the guarantee of our inheritance until we acquire possession of it, to the praise of his glory."

Galatians 5:22-23:

"But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law."

Philippians 2:12-13:

"Therefore, my beloved, as you have always obeyed, so now, not only as in my presence but much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you, both to will and to work for his good pleasure."

Looking at all these cross-references, it's clear that the idea of regeneration is deeply rooted in the Bible. It's not just a theological concept but a transformative experience that runs through the entire narrative of Scripture. Regeneration, as depicted in these verses, is all about God’s grace at work, turning us into new creations in Christ. This spiritual rebirth changes everything, giving us a fresh start and empowering us to live in a way that truly reflects our renewed nature and our relationship with God. It's a foundational theme that ties together our understanding of salvation and Christian living.

Glad to note your "tone" has been softened and you will not agree as to this, and there is so much more!
J.

You’re a theologian.

And still I wait for you to explain the Living spirit birth?

I don’t believe you are Born Again...that is why you don’t understand what I’m saying.

And before you accuse me, you said the exact thing to me that I wasn’t Born Again..even after giving my testimony and posting how I was Born Of The Living Spirit...you rebuked it.

I rebuke that you are Born Again....everything you post is intellectual knowledge...only the scripture is true..

 

[Episkopos]

Re: discernment

The only way one self-interested person is going to correct another self-interested person is if that one breaks ranks and threatens their own self-interest.

Of course my posts obliterate self-interest just like the bible does when properly read...and properly understood. So I gather all the self-interested ones together....against me. Call it a gift! :)

So if you are against my words...you can know that you care more about your own salvation than that of anyone else.

Verdict: Self-interest. He or she who seeks to save their life....

 

[Ritajanice]

So by your own admission there is no need to read our Bibles and how are you going to test YOUR experience against what stands written-Perfect Tense?
How is the Holy Spirit co-witnessing with your spirit when you don't even know what is written? How are you testing others, and yourself? By what standard?

Hey-I need to study the Scriptures, daily and if this "irks" you not my problem.

Never said that, I am led through my Bible by the Spirit, do you think discernment comes from the Bible...discernment is in our spirit as we are Born Again...our spirit is in Christ.

Do you actually understand that being Born Again is a Living Spirit birth?

I know exactly what God Witnesses to my spirit.

Unfortunately you don’t even understand what that means.

You work,work,work,

I don’t i rest in the Lord until he brings to my understanding what he wills...I understand in the spirit.

Not your human intellect.

 

[Johann]

Humanistic propaganda. You think I'm avoiding sanctification by speaking about holiness?

Humanistic propaganda? You and I both know what holiness is and the etymology-I don't need divine visitations and experiences brother and for someone who experienced these you speak in a very condescendingly manner to your fellow brothers and sisters EN/EIS Christ Jesus-no root, no fruit.
Read 1 Cor 13.
J.

 

[Ritajanice]

This is very easy to explain in our spirit...I wait for you to explain how you are in the righteousness of Christ?

How do we know the Spirit is life because of righteousness?

Your own words please? @Johann .

"You, however, are not in the flesh but in the Spirit, if in fact the Spirit of God dwells in you. Anyone who does not have the Spirit of Christ does not belong to him. But if Christ is in you, although the body is dead because of sin, the Spirit is life because of righteousness. If the Spirit of him who raised Jesus from the dead dwells in you, he who raised Christ Jesus from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies through his Spirit who dwells in you."