Something is wrong with my Christian forum. Everything seems to be working normally (i.e., the articles are there, and the links work), but for some reason, the forum's format has changed slightly, and I am currently unable to post anything new.

I'm really sorry for the inconvenience. Hopefully, the problem is only temporay and will be fixed soon.

NOVEMBER 30

In this letter to the Christians in Rome (and to all other Christians, too), the apostle Paul wrote:

Romans 5:3-4: "And not only so [do born-again Christians rejoice in good times (such as when our families are healthy, we can afford to pay our bills on time, etc.) and because we know that we are cleansed from sin, have peace with God, are saved from hell, and will live in heaven someday], but we glory [rejoice, take pleasure] in tribulations [troubles, afflictions, bad times] also: knowing that tribulation worketh [produces, brings about, results in] patience [a calm temper]; And patience, [produces] experience; and experience, [produces] hope [for the future]:"

NOVEMBER 29

In this psalm, King David prayed:

Psalm 34:18: "The LORD [God] is nigh unto [is near, willing to help] them that are of a broken heart [those who are broken-hearted, referring to Christians who are overwhelmed by sin, or by depression or grief, as when a romantic relationship ends or a loved one dies]; and [he--God] saveth [saves, rescues] such as be of a contrite spirit [referring to people who are remorseful or repentant, meaning they humbly accept responsibility for their sins and are sincerely sorry for them]."

NOVEMBER 28

After cursing the fig tree that had leaves but no fruit, Jesus said to his twelve disciples (apostles):

Matthew 21:22: "And all things, whatsoever ye [you] shall ask [for] in prayer, believing [that your prayer will be heard by God and will be answered according to his will], ye shall receive."
According to Albert Barnes:

"This promise was evidently a special one, given to them [Jesus' apostles] in regard to working miracles. To them it was true, but it is manifest [clear, obvious] that we have no right to apply this promise to ourselves. It was desired especially for the apostles; nor have we a right to turn it from its original meaning. There are other promises in, abundance on which we 'may' rely in prayer, with confident assurance that our prayers will be heard …"

Then he gives Matthew 7:7-8,9-10,11 as one example of the Bible's promise that our prayers will be answered.

(Source: https://www.studylight.org/commentaries/bnb/matthew-21.html, "Verses 12-22")

Also regarding this verse, another Bible commentator wrote:

"Matthew 21:22 assumes what Jesus taught elsewhere about prayer, namely, that God will grant the petitions of His people when they are in harmony [agreement] with His will (Matthew 6:9-13; Matthew 7:7-11; cf. [compare] John 14:13-14; John 15:16; John 16:23-24; 1 John 5:14-15). His point was that when we pray we should believe that God can do anything we request and that He will do what is consistent with His will and what He has promised to do …"

(Source: https://www.studylight.org/commentary/matthew/21-22.html, "Expository Notes of Dr. Thomas Constable")

NOVEMBER 27

Acts 8:12: "But when they [the people in a city of Samaria] believed Philip [a deacon/evangelist (not the apostle)] [who was] preaching the things concerning the kingdom of God [which means that he had been preaching about heaven], and the name of Jesus Christ [i.e., how to be saved, which is through faith, not works--by believing that Jesus died on the cross to pay for our sins and by receiving (trusting) him as our personal Savior, not by doing good deeds (good things)], they were baptized [by immersion, in a large body of water], both men and women."
In this verse, the people believed the gospel first and then were baptized. That's why only adults are mentioned, not babies or young children.

Baptism by immersion (i.e., going down into the water and coming up again) is a picture of the death, burial, and resurrection of the Lord Jesus Christ. You can learn more about it by reading the article entitled "What is the symbolism of water baptism?" Here's the link: https://www.gotquestions.org/water-baptism.html.

NOVEMBER 26

Proverbs 26:2: "As the bird [any small bird, especially a sparrow] [does no harm] by wandering [flying around aimlessly], [and] as the swallow [another small bird] [also does no harm] by flying [about, or to and fro, or back and forth], so the curse causeless [a curse spoken without reason, referring to idle (empty) threats made by others, vicious words spoken by mean people, etc.] shall not come [to injure us, or shall not come true, shall not happen, shall not reach its (or their) destination]."
According to Pastor Jim Delany of Salem Bible Church, "This proverb is designed to encourage the faint of heart … [and] bring comfort to the hearts of those who worry needlessly about the 'causeless curse.'"

In his commentary, Pastor Delany explains what the word curse means (and also what it doesn't mean) when applied to this verse and why Solomon used birds to illustrate his point.

Near the end of the commentary, we are told the following:

"c. There are many timid souls in the world who hear words of cursing and condemnation and take those words to heart.
"• Ex[ample]: 'You're nothing but a dumb Irishman and you'll never amount to anything!'
"• A timid soul might take that to heart… and actually believe it… and it can become a self-fulfilling prophesy.
"• Solomon says that since the curse is causeless and unfounded, it should not be feared.
"• It [the curse] will not come to pass. It is as harmless as a loud, chirping swallow flying overhead.

"b. What a good message for young people in the Facebook generation to hear [i.e., that 'the curse causeless shall not come'].
"• We have heard of several stories of young people who were threatened or cursed or ridiculed on the internet, and were so devastated, they committed suicide.
"• To those cursed and ridiculed, Solomon has words of encouragement: don't fear the mocker."

And we are reminded that:

"• Most of the things we worry about never come to pass …"

If you want to read more of the pastor's commentary, here's the link: https://www.salembible.org/proverbs-index/proverbs-26-index/proverbs-26_2/.

NOVEMBER 25

Psalm 106:1: "Praise ye [you] the LORD [God]. O give thanks unto the LORD [always, for all things]; for [because] he is good [morally good, righteous]: for his mercy [kindness, compassion, faithfulness, forgiveness] endureth [endures, lasts] for ever."

NOVEMBER 24

Jeremiah 32:26-27: "Then came the word of the LORD unto Jeremiah [an Old Testament prophet] [or 'God spoke to Jeremiah'] [while he was praying], saying, Behold, I am the LORD, the God of all flesh [the creator of people, animals, all living things]: is there any thing too hard for me [to do]? [The answer is: No!]"
In the above verse, according to one Bible commentator:

"Yahweh [Jehovah] retorts [responds to] Jeremiah's own words: I am, indeed, as thou sayest (Jeremiah 32:17), the God and Creator of 'all flesh,' and 'nothing is too hard for me:' thine own words ought to have taught thee that, though Judea and Jerusalem are given up to the Chaldeans now, for [due to] the sins of the Jews [i.e., worshiping idols, disobeying the commandments of God, etc.], yet it will not be hard to me, when I please, to restore the state [of Israel], so that houses and lands therein shall be possessed in safety (Jeremiah 32:36-44)."

(Source: https://www.studylight.org/commentary/jeremiah/32-27.html, "Commentary Critical and Explanatory on the Whole Bible - Unabridged," "Verse 27")

NOVEMBER 21-23

We Should Worship God--Not Our Pastors

In a letter to the Corinthian church, regarding divisions in that church, the apostle Paul wrote:

1 Corinthians 3:5: "Who then is Paul, and who is Apollos [Apollo], but [aren't they both] ministers [servants of God, not heads (or leaders) of different parties (or groups) within the Christian church] by whom ye [you] believed [the gospel], even as the Lord gave [gifts, talents, abilities] to every man [and woman and child]?"

1 Corinthians 3:6: "I [Paul] have planted [(sowed) the seed of the gospel, meaning Paul had preached the gospel and established the Christian church in Corinth], Apollos watered [that seed, which means that he had continued Paul's work of preaching and teaching]; but God gave the increase [in other words, God gave life to the church and made it grow]."

1 Corinthians 3:7: "So then neither is he [the minister] that planteth [plants] [the seed of the gospel] any thing [worth mentioning, meaning he is not more important than other ministers], neither [is] he [the minister] that watereth [waters] [the seed of the gospel] [anything worth mentioning, meaning he is not more important than other ministers]; but God that giveth [gives] the increase [by saving souls and growing the church] [is greater and more important than those who plant and water the seed (i.e., the people who preach and teach the word of God)]."

1 Corinthians 3:8: "Now he [the minister] that planteth [the seed of the gospel] and he [the minister] that watereth [the seed] are one [meaning they are united in doing one part of building up the church; God does the other part]: and every man [every minister--see note below*] shall receive his own reward [from God] according to his own labour [referring to what he (the minister) has done for the sake of the gospel]."

1 Corinthians 3:9: "For we [ministers] are labourers together with God: ye [you--in this case, born-again members of the Corinthian church] are God's husbandry [an agricultural metaphor comparing the church at Corinth to a cultivated field (i.e., land that has been prepared by God to raise crops, or be fruitful)], [and] ye are God's building [an architectural metaphor indicating that God was the builder of the Corinthian church]."
Regarding Paul's teaching in verse 7 that "neither is he that planteth any thing, neither he that watereth; but God that giveth the increase," Peter Pett wrote:

"So while we must properly appreciate what ministers do, if they do it humbly and faithfully, we must remember, and they [the ministers] must remember, that they are merely earthly vessels. Sometimes their work will prosper, and sometimes it will seem to languish [grow weak and feeble] (although the seed grows secretly). It will all depend on God's activity, without which their work is useless. And sometimes work will seem to prosper which is earthly work and not heavenly work at all. But anything worthwhile that comes out of it will be God's work, not theirs. It will be accomplished through the word of the cross, not through the word of men."

(Source: https://www.studylight.org/commentaries/eng/pet/1-corinthians-3.html, "Verse 7")

*According to Albert Barnes:

"And every man - The argument of the apostle [Paul] here [in 1 Corinthians 3:8] has reference only to ministers; but it is equally true of all people, that they shall receive their proper reward."

(Source: https://www.studylight.org/commentaries/bnb/1-corinthians-3.html, "Verse 8")

In light of the above statement by Mr. Barnes, I have rewritten my comments on the second half of verse 8 to include all people:

1 Corinthians 3:8: "… and every man [and woman and child] shall receive his [or her] own reward [on judgment day] according to his [or her] own labour [referring to the rewards that Christians will receive in heaven at the judgment seat of Christ for what they did on earth for God]."

Commenting on the rewards mentioned in 1 Corinthians 3:8 for serving the Lord (including preaching, teaching, witnessing, and soul winning), Pastor Chuck Smith said:

"… So Paul will receive his reward for planting. Apollos will receive his reward for watering. And that is the beautiful thing about serving the Lord, He does reward us for that work that we do, not for the results of the work, because the results belong to Him.

"So [as a preacher] I'm on a salary, I'm not commissioned at all. I'm not paid with a commission. I'm only salaried by the Lord to teach His Word; whatever comes of it is His and it's for His glory.

"I cannot produce fruit in your life. All I can do is teach you the Word of God, water really. And maybe someone else has planted the seed, but here we are watering, cultivating, in some cases planting, great. But it's the work of God that counts. It's God who brings life and gives life to the Word, and thus, I just receive the reward for that which I have done, and I receive the reward whether or not anything comes of it, because I've been faithful to do what God called me to do.

"And that's the thing that we need to really realize: that God rewards us for the work that He's called us to do, not for the results of that work. Sometimes we feel so discouraged, because, 'I've witnessed to so many people, then none ever believe, you know. I haven't been able to lead one person to Jesus Christ and I've talked to so many.' Hey, it doesn't matter. As far as your reward is concerned, God only asked you to talk to them.

"God didn't commission us to argue people into a faith in Jesus Christ, to get into disputes with people over the inerrancy [trustworthiness, infallibility] of the Bible or whatever. I find it rather pathetic [pitiful, sad] that we so often are placed in the position of defending the Word of God. God didn't call you to defend His Word. God called you to use His Word.

"If you were in a duel and you pulled your sword out of the sheath, you wouldn't say, 'Now, you be careful, this sword is the sharpest sword in the world' … You're not going to defend your sword, you're going to use it. Don't defend the Word of God, just use it. The Lord will do the work."

(Source: https://www.studylight.org/commentary/1-corinthians/3-5.html, "Chuck Smith Bible Commentary")

NOVEMBER 20

Don't Be Fooled by False Teachers

In a letter to members of the church at Corinth, the apostle Paul said:

2 Corinthians 11:13: "For such [men, like Paul had been talking about earlier, especially in verse 4 (i.e., those who preach 'another Jesus' or 'another gospel')] are false apostles [false religious leaders with false messages--see note below*], deceitful [dishonest, untrustworthy] [religious] workers, transforming themselves into the apostles of [Jesus] Christ [meaning they pretend to be ambassadors of Christ by acting like true Christian teachers in the things that they say and do]."

2 Corinthians 11:14: "And no marvel [no wonder]; for Satan himself [the devil, or 'prince of darkness'--a very evil angel] is transformed into an angel of light [a good angel; in other words, he can change himself into almost any shape or form and appear to be something that he's not]."

2 Corinthians 11:15: "Therefore it is no great thing [it is not surprising] if his [Satan's] ministers [servants] also be transformed as [appear to be] the ministers [religious leaders] of righteousness [good]; whose end [final destiny, fate--referring to Satan's 'ministers,' or servants] shall be [ruin and destruction,] according to their works [of deception]."
Be careful: Not all people--and things--that look good are good.

*GotQuestions.org has an article that answers the question "What are false apostles?" and tells us how to recognize them. If you want to read it, here's the link: https://www.gotquestions.org/false-apostles.html.

While teaching about Satan and false teachers in his commentary on verse 14, Albert Barnes points out that:

"(3) we are not to sup pose [suppose] that all that appears to be piety [the quality of being religious or reverent] is piety. Some of the most plausible [believable] appearances of piety are assumed by Satan and his ministers. None ever professed a profounder [greater] regard for the authority of God than Satan did when he tempted the Saviour [Jesus Christ]. And if the prince of wickedness [Satan] can appear to be an angel of light, we are not to be surprised if those who have the blackest hearts [referring to 'ministers' who serve Satan] appear to be people of most eminent [respected, distinguished] piety.

"(4) we should be on our guard. We should not listen to suggestions merely because they appear to come from a pious [religious] man, nor because they seem to be prompted by a regard to the will of God. We may be always sure that, if we are to be tempted, it will be by some one having a great appearance of virtue [high moral standards] and religion."

(Source: https://www.studylight.org/commentaries/bnb/2-corinthians-11.html, "Verse 14")

NOVEMBER 19

Proverbs 19:5: "A false witness [for example, the person who gives false testimony (meaning he or she intentionally gives false information or makes misleading statements) in court] shall not be unpunished [by God], and he [or she] that speaketh [speaks, tells] lies [frequently, in daily conversations, referring to someone who is a habitual liar] shall not escape [judgment and/or punishment by God]."
In other words, there are consequences for lying.

As usual, Pastor Jim Delany of Salem Bible Church has an excellent commentary on the above verse. According to him (in paragraph 3 of his commentary under the heading "Shall not be unpunished"), when people sin:

"b. No one can use the excuse, 'Well everybody's doing it!'

"c. God is not impressed with numbers."

"d. If everybody joins hands to oppose God and live in wickedness, then God will punish EVERYBODY." [Think of Noah and the flood as an example.]

Regarding the specific sin of lying, Pastor Delany says (in paragraph 2 under "Shall not escape"):

"b. Surely we know people who have lied and deceived others and have never been caught. Nobody ever found out. They seemed to get away with it.

"c. BUT the eyes of the Lord are everywhere… and so are His ears.

"d. The liar may escape punishment on earth… but never before God.

"e. And even if God doesn't punish him on earth--the day of reckoning will come… and we shall give account for every idle word… and every lie or deception.

"f. Lies may escape the notice of man [mankind, human beings], but nothing ever escapes the notice of the Lord.

If you want to read the rest of the pastor's commentary, here's the link: https://www.salembible.org/proverbs-index/proverbs-19-index/proverbs-19_5/.

NOVEMBER 15-18

Parable of the Unforgiving, or Unmerciful, Servant

Jesus told this story to teach his disciples (and us!) about forgiveness:

Matthew 18:23: "Therefore is the kingdom of heaven [also known as the kingdom of God (see Note 1 below), referring to how God will deal with born-again Christians, or members of his church] likened unto a certain king, which would take account of [or 'check on the amounts of money owed to him by'] his servants [see Note 2 below]."

Matthew 18:24-25: "And when he [the king] had begun to reckon [settle the accounts], one [servant] was brought unto him, which owed him ten thousand talents [a sum of money based on the weight of silver or gold; in this case, an amount equivalent (equal) to millions of our dollars--see Note 3 below]. But forasmuch as [since] he [the servant] had not [did not have] [enough money] to pay [his debt, what was due], his lord [the king] commanded [ordered] him to be sold [into slavery], and [commanded] his wife, and children [to be sold into slavery], and [commanded] all that he had [or owned, including all of his possessions] [to be sold], and [commanded] payment to be made [to the king]. "

Matthew 18:26-27: "The servant therefore fell down [meaning he positioned himself face down on the ground], and worshipped him [the king-- not in a religious way, but in a humble and reverent manner], saying, Lord, have patience with me, and I will pay thee [you] all [that I owe]. Then the lord of that servant [i.e., the king] was moved with compassion [for the servant, meaning he had pity on him], and loosed him [let him go], and forgave him the debt."

Matthew 18:28: "But the same servant [i.e., the one whose debt had been forgiven by the king] went out, and found one of his fellowservants, which owed him an hundred pence [a relatively small amount, since, in Bible times, one pence, or denarius, was a day's wage (about sixteen cents)--see Note 3 below]: and he laid hands on [grabbed] him, and took him by the throat [in a violent and rough manner, almost choking him], saying, Pay me that thou owest [what you owe]."

Matthew 18:29-30: "And his [the first servant's] fellowservant fell down at his [the first servant's] feet, and besought [begged] him, saying, Have patience with me, and I will pay thee all [that I owe]. And he [the first servant] would not [grant the second servant's request]: but [instead] went and cast [threw, put] him [the second servant] into prison, till [until] he should pay the debt."

Matthew 18:31: "So when his [the first servant's] fellowservants saw what was done [or what had happened], they were very sorry [sorrowful, sad], and [they] came and told unto their lord [the king] all that was done [to the second servant]."

Matthew 18:32-33: "Then his [the first servant's] lord [i.e., the king], after that he had called him [the first servant], said unto him, O thou [you] wicked servant, I forgave thee all that debt [of yours], because thou desiredst [you desired, asked, wanted] me [to do so]: Shouldest not thou [shouldn't you] also have had compassion [mercy] on thy [your] fellowservant [referring to the second servant, whom the wicked servant had thrown into prison], even as I had pity on thee [you]? "

Matthew 18:34: "And his [the first servant's] lord [i.e., the king] was wroth [very angry], and delivered him [the first servant] to the tormentors [in other words, the king put the wicked servant in prison, where criminals were sometimes tortured by the jailers--see Note 4 below], till [until] he [the wicked servant] should pay all that was due unto him [the king]."

Matthew 18:35: [Jesus ends the story by saying:] "So likewise [just like the king, who 'delivered to the tormentors' his servant who refused to forgive the debt of his fellow servant] shall my heavenly Father [God] do also unto you [meaning God will punish you], if ye [you] from your hearts forgive not [do not forgive] every one his [or her] brother [or sister (or other relative), friend, neighbor, etc.--in other words, all people] [for] their trespasses [sins, misdeeds, offences] [against you] [see Note 5 below]."
NOTE 1:

For further information, see: "What is the difference between the Kingdom of God and the Kingdom of Heaven?"

(Source: https://www.gotquestions.org/kingdom-heaven-God.html)

NOTE 2:

From Albert Barnes' commentary:

"… The word 'servants' here means, probably, petty princes, or, more likely, collectors of the revenue or taxes. Among the ancients [people in Bible times] kings often farmed out, or sold for a certain sum, the taxes of a particular district or province. Thus, when Judea was subject to Egypt or Rome, the kings frequently sold to the high priest the taxes to be raised from Judea on condition of a much smaller sum being paid to them. This secured to them a certain sum, but it gave occasion to much oppression in the collection of the taxes. It is probable that some such persons are intended by the word servants."

(Source: https://www.studylight.org/commentaries/bnb/matthew-18.html, "Verse 23")

NOTE 3:

Money values were taken from the following article: "What is the meaning of the Parable of the Unforgiving / Unmerciful Servant?"

(Source: https://www.gotquestions.org/parable-unforgiving-servant.html, paragraph 2)

NOTE 4:

According to Albert Barnes:

"The word 'tormentors' here [in Matthew 18:34] probably means keepers of the prisons. Torments were inflicted on criminals, not on debtors. They were inflicted by stretching the limbs, or pinching the flesh, or putting out the eyes, or taking off the skin while alive, etc. It is not probable that anything of this kind is intended, but only that the servant was punished by imprisonment until the debt should be paid."

(Source: https://www.studylight.org/commentaries/eng/bnb/matthew-18.html, "Verse 34")

NOTE 5:

From Albert Barnes' commentary:

"This verse [Matthew 18:35] contains the sum or moral of the parable. When Christ has explained one of his own parables, we are to receive it just as he has explained it, and not attempt to draw spiritual instruction from any parts or circumstances which he has not explained. The following seems to be the particulars of the general truth which he [Jesus] meant to teach:

"1. That our sins are great.

"2. That God freely forgives them.

"3. That the offences committed against us by our brethren are comparatively small.

"4. That we should therefore most freely forgive them.

"5. That if we do not, God will be justly angry with us, and punish us."

(Source: https://www.studylight.org/commentaries/bnb/matthew-18.html, "Verse 35")

Finally, regarding the subject of forgiveness, another Bible commentator wrote:

"… Now the Lord has never commanded us to do anything, but what He will give us is the capacity to do it, if we are willing. The problem is, we are not often willing to forgive. The Lord is saying it's got to be more than just a forgiving of words. 'Oh, I forgive you, but you do that again, you're going to get it. I forgive you, but I won't forget. I'll bury the hatchet, but I leave the handle showing so I can grab it whenever I need it.' The forgiveness is from the heart. Forgiveness is a matter of heart. It's a matter of spirit. And inasmuch as God has commanded it, God will give me the capacity if I am willing, but I've got to be willing.

"And so I have to pray, 'Oh, God give to me that spirit of forgiveness. God I am bitter. God I am angry with what they've done. Lord I am upset over this thing, and I don't want to forgive. I want vengeance, God, but I know that that is not of you. Father give to me the spirit of forgiveness. Give to me forgiveness in my heart. God take away this bitterness. Take away this unforgiving spirit that I have.' And I will receive God's help, if I am willing. But I must be willing, but I must do it. That is a must."

(Source: https://www.studylight.org/commentary/matthew/18-23.html, "Chuck Smith Bible Commentary")

NOVEMBER 14

In his letter to the "saints [born-again Christians] at Ephesus," the apostle Paul advised all Christians:

Ephesians 4:26 :"Be ye angry, and sin not [which means that if you become angry at other people's sins or at unfortunate circumstances (bad things that happen to you or other people), etc., don't let your anger cause you to sin]: let not the sun go down [don't let the sun set, don't let the day end] upon your wrath [anger, indignation, exasperation--i.e., without letting it (your wrath) go; in other words, try not to hold a grudge or seek revenge]:"
Meaning of the above verse, according to Albert Barnes:

"'… If you be angry, which may be the case, and which may be unavoidable, see that the sudden excitement does not become sin. Do not let it overleap its proper bounds; do not cherish [hold on to] it; do not let it remain in your bosom [heart] even to the setting of the sun. Though the sun be sinking in the west, let not the passion [anger] linger in the bosom, but let his [the sun's] last rays find you always peaceful and calm.'"

(Source: https://www.studylight.org/commentaries/bnb/ephesians-4.html, "Verse 26")

Here's another good explanation of the above verse, quoted from "Spurgeon's Verse Expositions of the Bible":

"Ephesians 4:26. Be ye angry, and sin not:

"If you must be angry, (and you must, sometimes,) take care that you do not sin when you are angry. It is rather a difficult thing to be angry, and not to sin; yet, if a man were to see sin, and not to be angry with it, he would sin through not being angry. If we are only angry, in a right spirit, with a wrong thing, we shall manage to obey the injunction [warning] of the apostle: 'Be ye angry, and sin not:'

"Ephesians 4:26. Let not the sun go down upon your wrath:

"Never let it [your anger] outlive the day, but forgive ere [before] the sun goes down."

(Source: https://www.truthaccordingtoscripture.com/commentaries/spe/ephesians-4.php#.YZEpbk7MJaQ)

Matthew Henry said this about holding a grudge:

"… though anger may come into the bosom [heart] of a wise man, it rests only in the bosom of fools."

(Source: https://www.biblestudytools.com/commentaries/matthew-henry-complete/ephesians/4.html, "Verses 17-32," "v. 26")

NOVEMBER 13

While explaining to Nicodemus, a Pharisee and a ruler of the Jews, that people must be "born again" in order to go to heaven, Jesus said:

John 3:17: "For God [the Father] sent not [did not send] his Son [Jesus] into the world [or 'to earth,' to be born of the virgin Mary] [in order] to condemn [judge, punish] the [nations of the] world; but [he did it so] that the world [that is, the people in it] through him [Jesus, because of his death on the cross to pay for our sins] might be saved [from hell and the lake of fire]."
Jesus came to save the world, not condemn it.

Adam Clarke explains the above verse as follows:

"It was the opinion of the Jews that the Gentiles [non-Jewish people], whom they often term [call, refer to as] the world, … were to be destroyed in the days of the Messiah. Christ corrects this false opinion and teaches here a contrary [an opposite] doctrine. God, by giving his Son [Jesus], and publishing his design in giving him, shows that he purposes [desires] the salvation, not the destruction, of the world-the Gentile people: nevertheless, those who will not receive the salvation he [God] had provided for them, whether Jews or Gentiles, must necessarily perish [be sent to hell and the lake of fire]; for this plain reason, There is but one remedy [i.e., that of salvation (by God's grace, through faith alone--Ephesians 2:8-9), which involves trusting in Jesus' death on the cross to pay for our sins], and they refuse to apply it."

(Source: https://www.studylight.org/commentary/john/3-17.html, "Adam Clarke Commentary")

NOVEMBER 12

During his Sermon on the Mount, Jesus said:

Matthew 6:7: "But when ye [you] pray, use not vain repetitions [don't keep repeating the same, memorized words over and over again, especially if you don't mean what you say], as [like] the heathen [people, which, in Bible times, referred to Gentiles, or non-Jews] do: for they think that they shall be heard [by God] for their much speaking [long prayers]."
"Pray from the heart" is good advice for everyone, not just Jewish people. Most prayers should be short and simple, and all of them should be sincere.

Regarding the above verse, one Bible commentator said:

"Do not use a lot of meaningless words. It is not a torrent of prayer, nor long prayer which is forbidden (Jesus did both), but the making of the number of prayers said, their length, and the amount of time spent in prayer--a thing of merit … Some religious people still believe there is special merit in repeating certain prayers a set number of times."

(Source: https://www.studylight.org/commentary/matthew/6-7.html, "The Bible Study New Testament," "Verse 7")

NOVEMBER 11

God is Our Helper and Protector

Knowing that he only had a few more days to live, Moses told the people of Israel that they would be crossing over the Jordan River into the promised land [see note below*] without him. He added:

Deuteronomy 31:6: "Be strong [in the Lord, and in the power of his might] and [be] of a good courage [be courageous, brave], fear not [don't be afraid], nor be afraid [and don't be terrified] of them [your enemies--in this case, referring to the Canaanites, or people who lived in the land of Canaan]: for the LORD thy [your] God, he it is that doth [does] go with thee [you]; he will not fail thee [let you down], nor forsake [leave] thee."
Not only did God protect the people of Israel in Moses' time, but he also protects born-again Christians.

*Background information on the biblical meaning of the term promised land is contained in the following articles:

-- "What is the land that God promised to Israel?"
     https://www.gotquestions.org/Israel-land.html

-- "Why was Abraham promised land that belonged to others (Genesis 12)?"
     https://www.gotquestions.org/Abraham-promised-land.html

NOVEMBER 10

Jesus Sends His Disciples to Preach the Gospel and Heal the Sick

The following event occurred after Jesus sent seventy of his disciples, in pairs (groups of two), into every city where he was planning to go, and they found that, in addition to healing sick people, they were able to cast out demons.

Luke 10:17: "And the seventy [disciples] returned again [to Jesus] with joy, saying, Lord, even the devils are subject unto [in subjection to] us through thy [your] name [meaning the demons had obeyed when the disciples commanded them, in Jesus' name (and by his authority), to come out of people who were demonically possessed]."

Luke 10:18: "And he [Jesus] said unto them [the disciples], I beheld [saw] Satan as [quickly as a flash of] lightning fall from heaven [which could have meant that: (1) in his mind, Jesus saw the devils leave immediately when they were cast out by his disciples; (2) he was remembering the time when Satan and his followers (the wicked angels) were thrown out of heaven for rebelling against God; (3) he was referring to the power of the gospel to defeat Satan's kingdom on earth]."

Luke 10:19: "Behold, I [Jesus] [also] give unto you [disciples] power to tread [step, trample] on serpents [snakes] and scorpions [see description below*] [in other words, Jesus promised that none of the seventy disciples would be harmed if they were bitten or stung by these types of poisonous creatures], and [I give you power to tread] over all the power of the enemy [meaning they would be victorious over Satan and his servants (demons, false teachers, etc.)]: and nothing [and no one] shall by any means hurt you."

Luke 10:20: "Notwithstanding [nevertheless] in this [thing, or for this reason] rejoice not [don't rejoice or be overly glad or happy], [i.e.,] that the [evil] spirits are subject unto you [obey you]; but rather rejoice, because your names are written in heaven [in the Lamb's book of life--see note below**]."
Not all Christians are able to tread on serpents and scorpions without harm, as the seventy disciples in Luke 10:19 did, but, with God's help, we should be able to tread over all the power of the enemy.

Regarding verse 19, John Gill said:

"and nothing shall by any means, hurt you; not the most hurtful and poisonous animals, nor the most malicious persecutors on earth, nor all the devils in hell: as the former venomous creatures [serpents and scorpions], when took up in their hands [referring to those of the seventy disciples], should not hurt, their bodies; so the other [things--malicious persecutors and devils], whatever they might be permitted to do with respect to their [the disciples'] lives, and outward estate, should never hurt their souls, and the eternal welfare of them; nor even hinder the work of God prospering in their hands."

(Source: https://www.studylight.org/commentary/luke/10-19.html, "John Gill's Exposition of the Whole Bible")


The names of the seventy disciples in Luke 10:20 were "written in heaven" because they were all born again, or saved from hell, according to the Bible.

Has your name been written in the Lamb's book of life? If you're saved, the answer is yes. If not, this is what you must do:

1. Believe that Jesus died on the cross to pay for your sins, and that he was buried and rose again on the third day (1 Corinthians 15:3-4).

2. Ask Jesus to come into your heart and save you so you can go to heaven when you die.

If you ask Jesus to save you, and your prayer is sincere (i.e., you really mean what you say), your name will be written in the Lamb's  book of life.

For a more detailed explanation of the plan of salvation, please read one or more of my gospel tracts. You'll find them in the "Printable Gospel Tracts" section of my website. Here's a direct link to that page: https://www.mansioninheaven.com/PrintableGospelTracts.html.

*Definition of scorpion, according to Albert Barnes:

"The scorpion is an animal with eight feet, eight eyes and a long jointed tail, ending in a pointed weapon or sting. It is found in tropical climates, and seldom exceeds 4 inches in length. Its sting is extremely poisonous, and it is sometimes fatal to life. It is in Scripture the emblem of malicious and crafty men. When rolled up it has some resemblance to an egg …"

(Source: https://www.studylight.org/commentaries/bnb/luke-10.html, "Verse 19")

**Jesus is called the "Lamb of God" because he was the "perfect and ultimate sacrifice for sin." This is explained in detail in the GotQuestions.org article entitled "What does it mean that Jesus is the Lamb of God?" If you want to read it, here's the link: https://www.gotquestions.org/Jesus-Lamb-of-God.html.

NOVEMBER 9

King David prayed to God:

 Psalm 5:3: "My voice [in prayer, either silently or out loud] shalt thou [shall you] hear in the morning, O LORD; in the morning will I direct my prayer unto thee [you], and [I] will look up [to heaven] [for an answer] [which means that, when praying, we should watch and wait for an answer from God, in the same way that an archer would shoot his or her arrow toward the target and then look up to see where it has landed--see note below*]."
Although praying at all times is acceptable and good, a great time to pray and ask God for his guidance, protection, and resistance to temptation (among other things) is in the morning. We should all try to develop that habit.

*In his commentary, Charles Spurgeon used archery to explain how we should pray. He wrote:

"Psalms 5:3. In the morning will I direct my prayer unto thee, and will look up.

"Adjust your prayer as the archer fits his arrow on the bow, look up as you shoot it, and keep on looking up and looking out for an answer to your supplication [request]. You cannot expect God to open the windows of heaven to pour you out a blessing if you do not open the windows of your expectation to look for it. If you look up in asking, God will look down in answering. It is well always to take good aim in prayer; some prayers are like random shots, they cannot be expected to hit the target; but David's prayer was well aimed, and he expected it to prevail with [or be received and answered by] God …"

(Source: https://www.bibliaplus.org/en/commentaries/9/spurgeon-bible-commentary/psalms/5)

NOVEMBER 8

In a letter to the Christian church at Corinth, the apostle Paul wrote:

1 Corinthians 10:14: "Wherefore [therefore; i.e., to avoid temptation and sin], my dearly beloved [Christians], flee [run away] from idolatry [which is the worship of, or excessive devotion to, people (such as the virgin Mary, saints, and the pope) and/or things (statues, images, false gods, etc.) instead of the one true God]."
God hates idoatry, so to avoid offending him, all Christians should heed Paul's warning in the above verse. Basically, he said: Don't join in or encourage the worship of idols, don't participate in sacrifices or feasts celebrated in their honor, and avoid places where they are worshiped.

GotQuestions.org has some good articles about idolatry. Here are their titles and links:

-- "What is the definition of idolatry?"
    (https://www.gotquestions.org/idolatry-definition.html)

-- "What are some modern forms of idolatry?"
    (https://www.gotquestions.org/idolatry-modern.html)

-- "Is religious iconography considered idolatry?" {And what is an icon?)
    (https://www.gotquestions.org/religious-iconography.html)

-- "Do Catholics worship idols / practice idolatry?"
    (https://www.gotquestions.org/Catholic-idolatry.html)

NOVEMBER 4-7

The Apostle Paul's Spiritual Advice to "Christian Soldiers"

Ephesians 6:11: "Put on the whole armour of God [a spiritual suit of armor, the parts of which are similar to Greek armor--see note below*], [so] that ye [you] may be able to stand against the wiles [methods, tricks, schemes] of the devil."

Ephesians 6:12: "For we wrestle not [we don't struggle with or fight] against flesh and blood [i.e., people], but [we fight] against principalities [principal rulers in Satan's kingdom], against powers [powerful fallen (bad) angels], against the rulers of the darkness of this [sinful] world, [and] against spiritual wickedness in high places [i.e., all other evil and wicked spirits]. [In other words, our fight is against very powerful invisible enemies, all of whom are evil spirits, and many of whom hold positions of authority in Satan's kingdom.]

Ephesians 6:13: "Wherefore [for the reasons mentioned above (i.e., because our opponents are so powerful)] take unto you [put on] the whole armour of God, [so] that ye may be able to withstand [be victorious] in the evil day [the day of temptation], and [so that,] having done all [having won the fight], [you will be able] to stand [firm, or stand your ground]."

Ephesians 6:14: "Stand therefore [resist every attack], having your loins [the region around your sexual organs] girt about [surrounded] with truth [sincerity and truthfulness, the truth of God--for protection, like the soldiers did, in Bible times, when they wore a 'girdle,' or sash or belt, to keep every piece of armor in place and to hold their swords and other weapons], and having on [wearing] the breastplate of righteousness [i.e., the righteousness of Christ that was imputed (given) to you the moment you got saved];"

Ephesians 6:15: "And [having] your feet shod [covered, as when you wear shoes or boots] with the preparation of the gospel of peace [probably called that because, through the gospel, you can have peace in your heart, peace with God, and peace with mankind];"

Ephesians 6:16: "Above all [in addition to the things just mentioned, as protection for your entire body], taking the shield of faith, wherewith [with which] ye shall be able to quench [put out, extinguish] all the fiery [flaming] darts of the wicked [one (referring to Satan), including evil thoughts and temptation--anything that may cause you to stumble and sin]."

Ephesians 6:17: "And take the helmet of salvation [representing hope for a bright future, and the assurance of eternal life in heaven], and the sword of the [Holy] Spirit, which is the word of God [referring to the Bible, and everything that is contained in it]:"
To sum up the above, in order to have victory over Satan and his kingdom (i.e., everyone and everything under Satan's control), we need to put on (and keep wearing) the whole spiritual armor of God, which consists of:

The girdle (or belt) of truth
The breastplate of righteousness
The boots (or shoes) of the gospel of peace
The shield of faith
The helmet of salvation
The sword of the Spirit (the word of God)

*Adam Clarke's commentary includes a description of the various parts of Greek armor. Basically, it says:

"As there is here allusion to some of the most important parts of the Grecian armour, I shall give a short account of the whole. It consisted properly of two sorts:

"Defensive armour, or that which protected themselves.

"Offensive armour, or that by which they injured their enemies. The apostle refers to both.

"I. Defensive armour:

"… the HELMET; this was the armour for the head, and was of various forms, and embossed with a great variety of figures. Connected with the helmet was the crest or ridge on the top of the helmet, adorned with several emblematic figures; some for ornament, some to strike terror. For crests on ancient helmets we often see the winged lion, the griffin, chimera, [et]c. St. Paul seems to refer to one which had an emblematical representation of hope.

"… the GIRDLE this went about the loins, and served to brace the armour tight to the body, and to support daggers, short swords, and such like weapons, which were frequently stuck in it …

"… the BREAST-PLATE; this consisted of two parts … one covered the whole region of the thorax or breast, in which the principal viscera of life are contained; and the other covered the back, as far down as the front part extended.

"… GREAVES or brazen boots, which covered the shin or front of the leg; a kind of solea was often used, which covered the sole, and laced about the instep, and prevented the foot from being wounded by rugged ways, thorns, stones, [et]c.

"… GAUNTLETS a kind of gloves that served to defend the hands, and the arm up to the elbow.

"… SHIELD; it was perfectly round, and sometimes made of wood, covered with bullocks' hides; but often made of metal …

"II. Offensive armour, or weapons; the following were chief:" (Note: This section lists the following items: spear, lance, sword, battle-axe, iron club, and bow and arrows.)

(Source: https://www.studylight.org/commentary/ephesians/6-13.html, "Adam Clarke Commentary")

No one knows exactly what the "Armor of God" looks like. However, if you're interested in learning more about what battle armor was like in Bible times, its various parts are described and pictured in the following article: "The Armor of God: What It Is and How to Use It." Here's the link: https://reasonabletheology.org/the-armor-of-god-what-it-is-and-how-to-use-it/.

NOVEMBER 3

Don't Blame God When You Are Tempted to Sin

James 1:13: "Let no man [person] say when he [or she] is tempted [to sin], I am tempted of [by] God: for God cannot be tempted with [to do] evil [things], neither tempteth he [neither does he tempt] any man [or woman or child] [to do wrong]:"

James 1:14: "But every man [person] is tempted, when he [or she] is drawn away of [lured by] his [or her] own lust [intense desire for something], and [is] enticed [seduced, persuaded to do evil, led astray by promises of pleasure or profit]."

James 1:15: "Then when lust hath [has] conceived [taken over, meaning that when a desire or inclination is indulged in an improper manner, as with adultery and fornication (sex outside of marriage), gluttony (eating too much), greed (desiring to be rich), covetousness (wanting what someone else has), etc.], it bringeth forth [brings forth, results in] sin: and sin, when it is finished [committed, especially when repeated and continued], bringeth forth death [or destruction, meaning it will kill you or ruin your life]."
According to one Bible commentator, in reference to James 1:13:

"…  he [God] tempted Abraham [in a good way], to try his faith, love, and obedience to him; he tempted the Israelites in the wilderness, to try them and humble them, and prove what was in their hearts; and he tempted Job, and tried his faith and patience; and so he tempts [in a good way] and tries all his righteous ones, by afflictions, more or less: but he never tempts [in a bad way] or solicits [asks, pressures] them to sin …"

(Source: https://www.studylight.org/commentary/james/1-13.html, "John Gill's Exposition of the Whole Bible")

Regarding James 1:14, Matthew Henry wrote:

"Every man is tempted (in an ill sense) when he is drawn away of his own lust, and enticed. In other scriptures the devil is called the tempter, and other things may sometimes concur to tempt us; but neither the devil nor any other person or thing is to be blamed so as to excuse ourselves; for the true original [origin?] of evil and temptation is in our own hearts. The combustible matter is in us, though the flame may be blown up by some outward causes."

(Source: https://www.biblestudytools.com/commentaries/matthew-henry-complete/james/1.html, "Verses 13-18", "(v. 14)")

Commenting on James 1:15, Albert Barnes wrote:

"As our desires of good lie in the mind by nature, as our propensities exist as they were created, they cannot be regarded as sin, or treated as such; but when they are indulged, when plans of gratification are formed, when they are developed in actual life, the effect is sin. In the mere desire of good, of happiness, of food, of raiment [clothing], there is no sin; it becomes sin when indulged in an improper manner, and when it leads us to seek that which is forbidden - to invade the rights of others, or in any way to violate the laws of God."

(Source: https://www.studylight.org/commentaries/eng/bnb/james-1.html, "Verse 15")

NOVEMBER 1-2

We're Saved Through Faith, Not Works

In this letter, the apostle Paul was (and is) writing to born-again Christians:

Titus 3:5: "Not by works of righteousness [not through good works (good deeds) or because of the good things] which we have done, but according to his mercy [kindness and compassion] he [God the Father] saved us [from hell and the lake of fire], by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost [i.e., through spiritual rebirth, or the process of being 'born again,' whereby we are cleansed from sin and become innocent, righteous, and new 'creatures' in God's sight (2 Corinthians 5:17)];"

Titus 3:6: "Which [referring to the Holy Ghost, or Holy Spirit] he [God the Father] shed [poured out, like rainwater] on us abundantly [plentifully, indicating a daily 'renewing of the Holy Ghost'] through Jesus Christ [the Son of God, who is also] our Saviour;"

Titus 3:7: "[God saved us so] That being justified [freed from sin, declared righteous] by his grace, we should be made heirs [of his, which means we should be adopted into the family of God] according to the hope of [having] eternal [never-ending] life [in heaven]."
Some Bible commentators think that the phrase by the washing of regeneration in verse 5 refers to baptism, but others do not. This is what Peter Pett said in his commentary:

"'Not by works done in righteousness, which we did ourselves, but according to his mercy he saved us, through the washing of regeneration and renewing of the Holy Spirit,'

"And this work of salvation which He [God] has wrought [brought about, produced] in us if we are Christians, was not because of any works that we had done in righteousness. It was not deserved in any way. It simply resulted from His compassion and mercy. And it was through 'the washing of regeneration and renewing of the Holy Spirit'. This does not mean that it was outwardly through baptism and inwardly through the Holy Spirit. That is totally to misunderstand the picture. (How we love to bring baptism in when water is mentioned as though water was never used for anything else. Even in a context like this we still have to keep God under our control). It is a picture drawn from the Old Testament where the coming of the Holy Spirit was likened to the pouring out of rain from above, washing the earth and regenerating it … And the result was to be life and fruitfulness. It was to be the renewal of the Holy Spirit which had been so long awaited.

"Alternately the washing of regeneration may have in mind the Old Testament examples of the washing away of sin (not defilement) … where it is a picture of the removal of sin, not of a ritual washing. The new birth washed away all their old sins and their old ways … and they became new creatures in Christ Jesus … In this case the regeneration is seen in terms of the positive removal of their sin, not of ritual washing.

"All the Gospels emphasise that it was a prime ministry of Jesus, to drench men in the Holy Spirit … And it is this work of Jesus that Paul is describing here, a work that began while He was on earth … continued in the Upper Room … flowered at Pentecost … and has gone on ever since, a work that takes place in men and women when they hear the Gospel and truly believe …

"In fact baptism is never described as 'washing' (Acts 22:16, the only possible exception, is debatable). It is always seen as an indicator of life from the dead through the Holy Spirit. Nor did ritual washings in the Old Testament ever cleanse ('you shall not be clean until the evening' was the constant refrain). They simply washed away earthly defilement so that men could then reach out to God, and Peter makes clear that that is not what baptism is all about … What baptism does of course signify is the working of the Holy Spirit, picturing it in terms of the heavenly rain. The Christian is baptised as a picture of what has happened to him [during the 'new birth' (i.e., at salvation, when he was 'born again')], and as an act of his resulting total commitment to Christ as his Lord."

(Source: https://www.studylight.org/commentary/titus/3-5.html, "Peter Pett's Commentary on the Bible," "Verse 5")

Note: Most references in the above quote have been omitted.

If you're not yet saved (from hell) and want to become a born-again Christian, you'll find detailed instructions in the "Printable Gospel Tracts" section of my website. Here's a direct link to that page: https://www.mansioninheaven.com/PrintableGospelTracts.html.