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Revelation Chapter 12 Second Lesson on Revelation Chapter 12     Revelation 12 spans Genesis1:1 to the end of the present world. This chapter informs us of Satan’s plot against Jesus and His followers.  It also assists us in understanding the journey of the Church throughout the ages.   Revelation 12:1 -   And there appear a great wonder in heaven, a woman clothed with the sun and the moon under her feet and upon her head a crown of twelve stars.  The woman in this chapter points to the Body of Christ, the people of God. The prophetic meaning for woman can be found in Jeremiah 6:2 and 2nd Corinthians 11:2. Jeremiah 6:2 - I have likened the daughter of Zion to a comely and delicate woman . 2nd Corinthians 11:2 reads, ‘ For I am jealous over you with a godly jealousy; for I have espoused you to one Husband that I may present you as a chaste virgin to Christ. ’   The Bible points us to two churches. Revelation 17 tells us about the church which has a foundation of falsehood. Revelation 12 tells us about the True Church of God. We should always be able to differentiate between both churches. The Church of God is a group of persons who have repented of their sins and live in obedience to God’s Laws and are not involved in acts of physical or spiritual fornication. The Church is committed to ONE MASTER and has no pleasure in carnality. The Church of God began when God called Abraham out of the Ur of Chaldees. Abraham’s descendants are now called the Israelites/Jews. The Church of God includes Abraham’s descendants and gentile nations; every member is redeemed by the blood of Jesus Christ. Ephesians 1:3,7- 3  Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, Who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ: 7  In whom we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of His grace; Acts 4:12- Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved.   I Corinthians 3:11 says, ‘ For no other foundation can no man lay than that is laid which is Jesus Christ. Ephesians 2:20 tells us that the CHURCH OF GOD is built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ Himself being the Chief Corner Stone.   These Scriptures are reminding us that Christ laid a spiritual foundation and the prophets and apostles laboured on that same foundation. They did not attempt to lay another therefore, we ought not to lay another foundation.   The woman had twelve stars on the crown on her head. What is the significance of the twelve stars in the Old and New Testaments?  Genesis 35:22b tells us the sons of Jacob were twelve. Jacob’s twelve sons were Reuben, Simeon, Levi, Judah, Dan, Naphtali, Gad, Asher, Issachar, Zebulun, Joseph and Benjamin. After a spiritual encounter God changed Jacob’s name to Israel. His twelve sons are the fathers of the twelve tribes of Israel. Matthew chapter 10:1 informs us that Jesus selected twelve disciples. The Disciples/Apostles of Christ were the foundation stones of His Church. In Revelation 21:14 we are told that the twelve foundations of the wall of the New Jerusalem will have in them the names of the twelve Disciples/Apostles. It is evident, therefore, that our Lord attaches great importance to these men. Simon Peter, Andrew, James the son of Zebedee, John ,Philip, Bartholomew, Thomas,  Matthew, James the son of Alphaeus, and Lebbaeus, whose surname was Thaddaeus,   Simon the Canaanite, and Matthias who replaced the traitor, Judas Iscariot.   Genesis 37: 7-11 records two dreams which Joseph the son of Jacob had. In each dream he saw himself reigning over his siblings. His brothers were very unhappy about this especially as they were aware that he seemed to be his father’s favourite child.   In jealousy Joseph’s brothers sold him as a slave and the slavers took him to Egypt and sold him there. The deceit of the brothers was cruel because they told their aged father that wild animal had eaten Joseph. It was a very heartrending situation for Jacob. (Genesis 37) While in Egypt, Joseph was falsely accused and thrown into prison (Genesis 39) but God did not allow him to remain in prison. Soon God allowed Joseph, the slave, to become Joseph, the governor. While living in Egypt God used Joseph whom his brothers had sold as a slave to save the life of his Israelite family. He also took his family to Egypt and they lived in a place name Goshen. (Genesis 41-45)     Joseph had two sons; Ephraim and Manasseh. It is customary for the fathers to bless their descendants so Jacob took Joseph’s children to bless them. While blessing them God allowed Jacob’s hands to be crossed so that the greatest blessing was passed to the younger. This is very significant as it also shows how God has transferred His ministry from Israel the Elder into the hands of the younger Gentile Church. This is not to say that God has cast away Israel. He has not because at the end of the Gentile Dispensation Israel will again be fully reinstated. Romans 11:25-   For I would not, brethren, that ye should be ignorant of this mystery, lest ye should be wise in your own conceits; that blindness in part is happened to Israel, until the fulness of the Gentiles be come in.   Joseph had a strong spiritual bond with God and his life is a story of obedience to both God and man. Joseph’s life was similar to Jesus Christ. His father, Jacob loved him but his brethren hated him. Jesus’s father loves Him but His brethren the Jews hated Him and sold Him for thirty pieces of silver. Joseph was married to an Egyptian. Christ was a willing sacrifice for every wayward individual regardless of race or gender. Through Christ Gentiles have been given the wonderful gift of salvation. We were once idol worshippers but now we can come into God’ presence as His children. Ephesians 2:8-13 reminds us that we are saved through faith and not of works.   The woman was clothed with the sun and the moon was under her feet. In Genesis 1:16 we learn that God made two great lights; the greater light to rule the day and the lesser light to rule the night. In the absence of the sun, the moon is a reflection of the perfect light of the sun. However, when the sun rises the moon goes into obscurity. You know it is there but it is no longer needed. The moon typifies the Laws of the Ordinances otherwise named the Mosaic Laws which was a reflection of good things to come. The Sun typifies the Word or Light of God; Jesus is the Light of the World made flesh, He is also called the Sun of Righteousness in Malachi 4:2. Children of God are similar to the sun because they are set on fire by the Holy Spirit and they generate godly light.   The Church has risen to an extent above the Laws of the Ordinances but has not totally discarded them. The Laws of rituals, sacrifices and ceremonies are a part of the Old Covenant; today we are walking in a New Covenant which was made possible by the sacrifice of Christ.Therefore the moon had to be placed under the feet of the woman in Revelation 12.  This is telling us that the time of sacrificial and ceremonial ordinances and rituals have passed. Praise the Lord. In reference to Jesus and the Laws of the Ordinances, Ephesians 2:14-15 say, For He is our Peace who hath made both one and hath broken down the middle wall of partition between us. Having abolished in His flesh the enmity even the Law of Commandments contained in Ordinances for to make of Himself of twain one new man so making peace.   Colossians 2: 14-17 - 14  Blotting out the handwriting of ordinances that was against us, which was contrary to us, and took it out of the way, nailing it to His cross; 15  And having spoiled principalities and powers, He made a shew of them openly, triumphing over them in it. 16  Let no man therefore judge you in meat, or in drink, or in respect of an holyday, or of the new moon, or of the sabbath days: 17  Which are a shadow of things to come; but the body is of Christ.   These are controversial verses because they are often wrongly interpreted. We must understand that the Laws of the Ordinances are different from the Ten Commandments. While the Ten Commandments were written by God on tables of stone the Laws of the Ordinances were written by Moses in a book/scroll. God gave the directive that The Ten Commandments/ The Testimony be placed into the Ark of the Covenant. (Exodus 25:16) The Laws of the Ordinances otherwise called the Mosaic Laws were placed in the side of the Ark. (Deuteronomy. 31:9,26).   Colossians 2:16 tells us that one should not judge the eating and drinking patterns of others and also how others relate to holy days. This is not telling us that we should partake of unclean foods or ungodly beverages/liquor. Remember Paul was writing to a set of people who were coming out of idolatry and were accustomed to many unsavoury dieting practices and religious rituals. The Jews had also taken onto themselves eating practices which were ungodly. They went against God's directives and worshipped idols and ate sacrifices and burnt offerings offered to those idols.   The sacrifices and worship given to idols are not to be linked to those required by God under the Old Covenant. Under this Covenant the Israelites offered sacrifices to God and following God's directives they also partook of some of these sacrifices. Now that Jesus has accomplished the mission of salvation these sacrifices were no longer necessary. Hebrews 9:11-12 - 11  But Christ being come an High Priest of good things to come, by a greater and more perfect tabernacle, not made with hands, that is to say, not of this building; 12  Neither by the blood of goats and calves, but by His own blood he entered in once into the Holy Place, having obtained eternal redemption for us . The Gentiles were being coerced by the Jews to engaged in the activities which Christ had put away. This event caused a discussion among the Apostles Paul and Peter. Galatians 2:11-14 - But when Peter was come to Antioch, I withstood him to the face, because he was to be blamed. 12  For before that certain came from James, he did eat with the Gentiles: but when they were come, he withdrew and separated himself, fearing them which were of the circumcision. 13  And the other Jews dissembled likewise with him; insomuch that Barnabas also was carried away with their dissimulation. 14  But when I saw that they walked not uprightly according to the truth of the gospel, I said unto Peter before them all, If thou, being a Jew, livest after the manner of Gentiles, and not as do the Jews, why compellest thou the Gentiles to live as do the Jews? Read Genesis 32: 24-32 and learn why the Israelites do not eat a portion of the thigh of animals. Do you remember how the Disciples plucked the corn on the Sabbath and how the Jewish spiritual leaders responded? (Matthew 12:1-4) All these were used to judge the Gentiles but Paul encouraged them to focus on Christ.   The celebration of the new moon and holy days for example Feast of the Trumpets, Week of Unleavened Bread, Feast of the Tabernacles and other such festivals have sabbath days. (Leviticus 23) Paul was not telling the Colossians brethren not to obey God’s directive about the Seventh Day Sabbath which was a Sign between God and man but was instead referring to the sabbath days attached to the festivals. These sabbath days were made obsolete because these festivals were fulfilled in Christ but Gentile believers were being forced by the Jews into obedience to the Old Covenant. Therefore, Paul was admonishing them to stand boldly against such manipulations. Apostle Paul was not giving directives to eat unclean food or drink and not rest on the Seventh Day Sabbath. He did not have such authority.   Revelation 12:2 tells us that the woman went into labour pain and would soon deliver her child. Isaiah 9:6-7 tells us about the child - His name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The might God, The Everlasting Father The Prince of Peace and His government shall never end moreover He shall reign in peace. Matthew1:21- And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call His name Jesus: for He shall save His people from their sins .   I will now summarise Revelation 12:1-2. Woman in prophecy refers to the Church which comprises a group of obedient followers. It also pointed to the nation of Israel because the twelve stars above the woman’s head point to the twelve tribes of Israel and the twelve disciples. The moon under her feet points to the Laws of Ordinances which Jesus’ death had put away. Being clothed with the sun tells us about Jesus’ redemptive blood and the power of the Holy Spirit. No longer do we need to engage in animal sacrifices or ceremonial washings. All we need to do is to obey the Ten Commandments which God had written on the tables of stone and we must remember that the Ten Commandments written by God are different from the Laws of the Ordinance written by Moses.     Writer - A. E. Fisher  We welcome your questions and feedback.  You may contact us at   ofthelivinggodchurch@gmail.com   https://www.pillarandgroundofthetruth.online/ Other Relevant Teachings Revelation Chapter 12:3 Revelation Chapter 12: 4 Revelation chapter 12 Revelation 13 part one (The amalgamated beast) Revelation 14:1-5

Revelation Chapter 12:4 Lesson Four   Revelation 12:4- And his tail drew the third part of the stars of heaven and did cast them to the earth and the dragon stood before the woman which was ready to be delivered for to devour her child as soon as it was born.   Revelation 12 verse two tells about the red dragon; this dragon is the devil. Sin began when our first parents Adam and Eve disobeyed God while they were living in the Garden of Eden. Since the inception of sin there has been a continuous raging war between humans and evil forces. It is a battle which we cannot win without the Lord’s support. Thank God that from the foundation of this world He had put in place the plan of salvation. Genesis 3:15 tells us God had promised to put enmity between the serpent and the woman. The serpent would bruise the heel of the seed of the woman but the woman’s seed would crush his head. Satan bruised Christ’s heel when He was crucified but Christ began crushing his head when He was resurrected. The crushing will continue until the day that sin is eliminated from this earth.   The dragon influenced and took a third of the stars of heaven. This is not referring to literal stars but to angels. Revelation 1:20 tells us that the seven stars which John saw were the angels of the seven churches.  Revelation 12:7-8 tells us about the war in heaven and how Michael and his angels won the battle against Lucifer and his friends. Lucifer and his friends were cast out of God’s dwelling (The Third Heaven) because sin cannot be in the presence of God. Immediately after his defeat Lucifer became known as the dragon, Satan, devil and other names which denote evil and he and his accomplices became demons. We thank God that Satan came to earth with one third of the angels; he has the minority and God has the majority.   Revelation 12 tells us that the Woman/Church is about to give birth to the Man-child/Jesus who will save Adam’s fallen descendants. When John the Baptist saw Jesus he declared, Behold the Lamb of God which taketh away the sins of the world . The Devil is against the redemption of mankind therefore he had tried to prevent the miraculous birth. But how can the created fight against the Creator?   The devil knew that Jesus would be setting his captives free therefore he tried earnestly to stop Him from living after birth. As soon as he knew that Mary would deliver Jesus he got very busy. He influenced Herod to kill the infant. Herod pretended that he wanted to worship Jesus and told the wise men that when they had found Jesus, they should tell him so that he could go and worship him. But God is always one step ahead so he warned the wise men in a dream and told them not to return to Herod. When Herod realized that they had not returned he gave a decree that all infants two years and less should be killed.    His action was a fulfillment of Jeremiah 31:15, Thus saith the Lord a voice was heard in Ramah; lamentation and bitter weeping, Rachel weeping for her children refused to be comforted because they were not.  Rachel was the beloved wife of Jacob and Jacob was the father of the twelve tribes of Israel. Therefore, the name Rachel is being used to represent the weeping of the Israelites for their children.   When the devil saw that he could not harm Jesus he attacked from a different position. He thoroughly used his agents to corrupt the story of Jesus’ birth. Paganism is mixed with Christianity as good as flour is mixed with cornmeal. Today earth’s populace renamed the birthday of the Babylonian god, Tammuz the birth day of Jesus. Pagan teachings attached to this pagan festival include: there were three wisemen, Jesus was born in the middle of winter, Santa Claus, Christmas tree, holly branch on the door, eating much unclean foods including ham during the season and other numerous pagan practices. The sad thing is that some engage in these practices believing that they are honouring Jesus.    Jesus’ life was spared from the slaughter because God came to Joseph in a dream and told him to take his family into Egypt. They remained in Egypt until Herod died. After Herod’s death, God came to Joseph and told him that it was safe for him to return to the land of Israel. Joseph was not comfortable to return to the land of Judea when he heard that Archelaus was reigning on his father Herod’s throne. Therefore, he headed for a small village called Nazareth which was in Galilee.   Thus, it was that Jesus the Son of God dwell with those seen as the least of the populace. Truly the people who were in Nazareth daily saw the Great Light but they did not understand the Light. What about you? Do you understand the LIGHT?   Have you ever thought about the foundation of the Church of God and why it is different from any other foundation? Ephesians 2:20 -   Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellowcitizens with the saints, and of the household of God; 20  And are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone; 1Corinthians 3:11-     For other foundation can no man lay than that is laid, which is Jesus Christ.   In the   Old Testament era the Church was headed by leaders from the twelve tribes and the priests from the tribe of Levi were set in place by Jehovah. In the New Testament era Jesus chose twelve leaders according to their hearts and not based on their tribe. Along the way Judas Iscariot fell and was replaced by Matthias. The twelve were the torchbearers and teachers of righteousness and they laboured according to the commission given to them by Jesus Christ. They built on the True Foundation which was laid in Christ.   When Philip was telling Nathanael about Jesus, the citizen of Nazareth, Nathanael asked, Can any good thing come out of Nazareth ? Philip responded, “ come and see .” Today, Jesus is still that Humble Servant of Nazareth. Presently He is not working with Joseph in the carpentry shop but He is still making things. He is busy making our lives new and guiding us along our journey. He has willing endured so much affliction so that we can have the wonderful opportunity to be in God’s presence.       Writer - A. E. Fisher  We welcome your questions and feedback.  You may contact us at   ofthelivinggodchurch@gmail.com   https://www.pillarandgroundofthetruth.online/        Other Relevant Teachings   Revelation chapter 12 Revelation 12:1 Revelation 12:3 Revelation 13 part one (The amalgamated beast) Revelation 14:1-5

Taking a brief look at the Ten Commandments.   The most powerful doctrine in the Bible is that of the Ten Commandments. The Ten Commandments are different from the laws written by Moses. The laws written by Moses were written in a book and placed in the side of the Ark of the Covenant while the Ten Commandments were written by God on tables of stone and were placed inside the Ark of the Covenant. Please read Deut. 31: 9 - 26, Exod.24:12; 32: 15-19; Deut. 10:1-5 to get a better understanding about the origination and differences between these two laws.   The Ten Commandments are also called The Law of Liberty, The Royal Law and The Moral Laws . From these laws of God, we get knowledge of sin. Romans 3:20 tells us that by the law is the knowledge of sin. In Psalm 119:142, 172 we are told that the Commandments are righteousness and truth. Psalm 111: 7-8 tells us that God’s laws will live forever and ever. James 2:10 reminds us that if we offend in one point, we are guilty of all.   The Moral Laws were instituted by God as way marks and guidelines for Believers. If we obey them we are assured of immortality. The Law of the Ordinances was added because of man’s disobedience to God’s Ten Commandments. The Law of the Ordinances was inclusive of animal sacrifices. Jesus, the Lamb of God became the sacrifice when He died on the cross. He became our High Priest; therefore, we have no need of an earthly priest to make sacrifices for us.   We will examine a few Scriptures which should help us to understand the importance of obeying God’s Ten Commandments.   The Moral Law/ Ten Commandments   It is called the Royal Law. James 2:8 - If ye fulfil the royal law according to the scripture, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself, ye do well : It was written by God. Deut. 4:12-13 -  And the Lord spake unto you out of the midst of the fire: ye heard the voice of the words, but saw no similitude; only ye heard a voice. 13 And he declared unto you his covenant, which he commanded you to perform, even ten commandments; and he wrote them upon two tables of stone .   It was written with the finger of God. Exod. 31:18 - And he gave unto Moses, when he had made an end of communing with him upon mount Sinai, two tables of testimony, tables of stone, written with the finger of God.  It is perfect and converts the soul. Psalm19:7- The law of the Lord is perfect, converting the soul: the testimony of the Lord is sure, making wise the simple.  It is pure. Psalm 19:8 - The statutes of the Lord are right, rejoicing the heart: the commandment of the Lord is pure, enlightening the eyes. It is holy, just and good. Romans 7:12-     Wherefore the law is holy, and the commandment holy, and just, and good. It is spiritual. Romans 7:14-     For we know that the law is spiritual: but I am carnal, sold under sin. Those who keep them will get eternal life. Rev. 22:14-   Blessed are they that do his commandments, that they may have right to the tree of life, and may enter in through the gates into the city.  Christ magnifies it. Matt. 5: 17-19 -   Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfil. 18 For verily I say unto you, Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law, till all be fulfilled. 19 Whosoever therefore shall break one of these least commandments, and shall teach men so, he shall be called the least in the kingdom of heaven: but whosoever shall do and teach them, the same shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven.   The Lord magnifies it and makes it honourable.  Isaiah 42:21-   T he Lord is well pleased for his righteousness' sake; he will magnify the law, and make it honourable.  If you break one you are guilty of all. James 2:10 -     For whosoever shall keep the whole law, and yet offend in one point, he is guilty of all. It is a light and a lamp. Proverbs 6 :23-  For the commandment is a lamp; and the law is light; and reproofs of instruction are the way of life It can be sectioned as love to God and love to man. Matt. 22 : 37-40 - Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind. 38 This is the first and great commandment. 39 And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. 40 On these two commandments hang all the law and the prophets.   We keep them if we love God. John 14:15-   If ye love Me, keep My commandments 1st John 5:2 - By this we know that we love the children of God, when we love God, and keep His commandments. They are not grievous (burdensome) 1st John 5:3 -   For this is the love of God, that we keep his commandments: and His commandments are not grievous.   It was placed in the Ark. Exod. 40:20; - And he took and put the testimony into the ark, and set the staves on the ark, and put the mercy seat above upon the ark: Hebrews 9:4- Which had the golden censer, and the ark of the covenant overlaid round about with gold, wherein was the golden pot that had manna, and Aaron's rod that budded, and the tables of the covenant;It abides forever. Psa. 111:7-8 - The works of His hands are verity and judgment; all His commandments are sure. They stand fast for ever and ever, and are done in truth and uprightness.   We are advised to fear God and keep His Commandments. Ecclesiastes 12:13 - Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God, and keep His commandments: for this is the whole duty of man.   Some believe that the Ten Commandments of God are obsolete but be reminded that Rev. 12:17 tells us that Satan is angry with the people of God who keep God’s Commandments and who have the testimony of Jesus.   Rev. 22:14 reminds us that those who keep God’s Commandments will enter into the City of God. Obedience in serving God means keeping all Ten Commandments. These Commandments are from the creation of this world and can be read from Genesis to Revelation.   I invite you to align a few New Testament Scriptures with the Commandments as listed in Exodus 20.   1 Thou shalt have no other gods before me. Exodus 20:3; Matthew 4:10   2 Thou shalt not make unto thee any graven image, or any likeness of anything that is in heaven above, or that is in the earth beneath or that is in the water under the earth. Thou shalt not bow down thyself to them nor serve them; for I the Lord thy God am a jealous God visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children unto the third and fourth generation of them that hate Me; and shewing mercy unto thousands of them that love Me and keep My commandments.   1st John 5:21; Acts17:16-25; 1st Corinthians 8:4-6; 6:9; Exodus 20:4-6   3 Thou shalt not take the name of the Lord thy God in vain; for the Lord will not hold him guiltless that taketh His name in vain. Matthew 5:33-37; 6:9; 23:16-22; Exodus 20:7   4 Remember the Sabbath day to keep it holy. Six days shalt thou labour and do all thy work; but the seventh day is the Sabbath of the Lord thy God: in it thou shalt not do any work, thou, nor thy son, nor thy daughter, thy manservant, nor thy maidservant, nor thy cattle, nor thy stranger that is within thy gates. For in six days the Lord made the heaven and earth, the sea and all that in them is, and rested the seventh day: wherefore the Lord blessed the Sabbath day and hallowed it. Exodus 20:8-11; Acts 13:42,44; Luke 4:16; Hebrews 10:25; Matthew 12:8; Revelation 1:10   5 Honour thy father and thy mother that thy days may be long upon the land which the Lord thy God giveth thee. Exodus 20:12; Mark 7:9-13; Colossians 3:20; Ephesians 6:1-3; Mark 10;19   6 Thou shalt not kill. Luke 18:20; Mark 10:19; Romans 13:9; James 2:11; Exodus 20:13   7 Thou shalt not commit adultery. Romans 13:9; James 2:11; Mark 10:4-2,19, 1st Corinthians 6:9; Exodus 20:14 8  Thou shalt not steal. Exodus 20:15; Romans 13:9; Mark 10:19; Luke 18:20; Ephesians 4:28 9  Thou shalt not bear false witness against thy neighbour. Romans 13:9 Mark 10:19; Ephesians 4:29, 31, Exodus 20:16 10  Thou shalt not covet thy neighbour's house, thou shalt not covet thy neighbour’s wife, nor his manservant. Nor his maidservant, nor his ox, nor his ass, nor anything that is thy neighbour’s. Romans 13:9; Exodus 20:17; Hebrews 13:5; James 4:1-2; Romans 7:7   What does the Ten Commandments teach us? The first Commandment reminds us that we should only worship the True and Living God. If we worship otherwise, it is idolatry. Jesus told Satan in Matthew 4:10, ‘thou shalt worship the Lord thy God and Him only shalt thou serve. If we love God, we will serve Him in spirit and in truth.   The second tells us not to make and worship images. We must not bow down and show reverence to images; this includes the cross. When we do this, we are not honouring God we are denouncing Him. This is idolatry. Those who do not worship images will be rewarded with His mercy but if we worship images, we will leave a sinful legacy for our children and will not inherit everlasting life.   The third Commandment tells us not to take God’s name in vain. We must reverence His name. Our society is guilty of this practise; we defame God’s name for the simplest thing. If you listen you often hear expletives alongside God’s name, songs which are not in tune with godliness incorporates God’s name. This is totally unacceptable. God’s name is to be held in awe and reverence. If this is your habit, please stop now, before God’s wrath is turned on you.   In the fourth Commandment we are told to remember God’s Sabbath. From creation the Sabbath has been kept but God knew that false teachers would arise therefore He told us to Remember the Sabbath day  to keep it holy. When we keep the Sabbath, we remember God as Creator of heaven and earth. We recognise His sovereignty. Man does not have the power to change God’s time and select any day as the Sabbath. We should follow God’s guidelines. We must put aside all cares and toils and worship God on the day that He has especially set aside for holy communion with God.   The 5th Commandments tells us to “Honour our father and our mother that our days may be long upon the land which the Lord our God hath given us.”  It doesn’t matter how the child was reared or the behaviour of the parent the child must honour the parent. As a matter of fact, the child should be respectful to all and should be given due respect. If we want to live and be blessed by God, we must honour our parents.   The sixth Commandment says, Thou shalt not kill. No unrepentant murderer will enter eternal life. Jesus said if we keep hate in our hearts we are murderers. Therefore, a murderer is not only the one who takes out a life by a gun, knife etc. A murderer is also one who defames person’s character and cuts the throat with the tongue.   The 7th points to adultery; It says Thou shalt not commit adultery. Jesus said that if one looks at another who is not the spouse and lust after him/her that person has already committed adultery in his/her heart. Marriage is a lasting covenant between God and the couple. Married partners must be faithful to each other and outsiders must not interfere with their relationship. Under the Mosaic law persons who committed adultery were instantly stoned to death. You might not be put to death now, but remember that God still detest adulterous  behaviour.   The 8th Commandment tells us not to steal. It is a crime to take something which does not belong to you. Stealing is not only taking tangible things such as money, and car. People’s happiness is stolen when their loved ones are raped or murdered, or when marriages are broken because of unfaithfulness and varied other ways. Time can also be stolen in various ways.   The ninth Commandment tells us not to lie. Many persons love to suss and while gossiping they run out of facts, therefore, they tell lies. Lies are even told while persons are under oath in the courthouse. Bearing false witness has gotten many innocent people in trouble. Speak the truth always. If you’re a liar your father is the Devil John 8:44  Most problems begin with coveting others. The 10th Commandment tells us not to covet anyone’s property. Satan coveted God’s position and raised an insurrection in heaven. That is why he is here on earth creating havoc and working assiduously to prevent us from inheriting eternal life with Christ. Covetousness began with him and will end when God destroys him and his demons.   God expect us to obey His laws. We were created for such purpose. If you are not walking in total obedience to God’s Commandments, submit yourself to Him and ask for His forgiveness. Whatever changes are to be made in your life allow God’s grace to guide you through all situations. Ecclesiastes 12:13-14 says ‘ Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter fear God and keep His Commandments for this is the whole duty of man. For God shall bring every work into judgement with every secret thing whether it be good or whether it be evil. ’      Writer - A. E. Fisher    We welcome your questions and feedback.  You may contact us at   ofthelivinggodchurch@gmail.com https://www.pillarandgroundofthetruth.online/   Other Relevant Teachings Jesus is not Almighty God; He is the Only Begotten Son of God How many heavens are in place? Creation and fall of Lucifer How should the Sabbath be kept? Remember the Sabbath Day Speaking in tongues The truth about Easter Why be baptised? What happens after death? The handwriting of Ordinances

https://www.pillarandgroundofthetruth.online/ While many accept the teachings of the seventh day, Sabbath, many do not know how it is to be kept. The Sabbath is not burdensome; it is a time of refreshment and fellowship. We learn obedience to God by adhering to the Sabbath rules which He had given us. In this verse we are reminded of the sanctity and the blessings of the Sabbath - Isaiah 58:13- 14- If thou turn away thy foot from the Sabbath, from doing thy pleasure on My holy day; and call the Sabbath a delight, the holy of the Lord, honourable; and shalt honour Him, not doing thine own ways, nor finding thine own pleasure, nor speaking thine own words:   Then shalt thou delight thyself in the Lord; and I will cause thee to ride upon the high places of the earth. Preparation for Sabbath includes : cleaning up your surroundings, preparing the needed clothes, barbering, preparing the vehicle for travel, preparing for your pets or life stocks, make preparations for anyone who needs your assistance and any other necessities based on your situation. One way in which we show obedience to God is by refraining from cooking in any form on the Sabbath except there be an emergency. The present access which makes cooking easier should not entice us into disobedience but we should be able to appreciate these inventions while remaining obedient to God. Exodus 16:16-27 - This is the thing which the Lord hath commanded, Gather of it every man according to his eating, an omer for every man, according to the number of your persons; take ye every man for them which are in his tents. 17 And the children of Israel did so, and gathered, some more, some less. 18 And when they did mete it with an omer, he that gathered much had nothing over, and he that gathered little had no lack; they gathered every man according to his eating. 19 And Moses said, Let no man leave of it till the morning. 20 Notwithstanding they hearkened not unto Moses; but some of them left of it until the morning, and it bred worms, and stank: and Moses was wroth with them. 21 And they gathered it every morning, every man according to his eating: and when the sun waxed hot, it melted. 22 And it came to pass, that on the sixth day they gathered twice as much bread, two omers for one man: and all the rulers of the congregation came and told Moses. 3 And he said unto them, This is that which the Lord hath said, Tomorrow is the rest of the holy sabbath unto the Lord: bake that which ye will bake to day, and seethe that ye will seethe; and that which remaineth over lay up for you to be kept until the morning. 24 And they laid it up till the morning, as Moses bade: and it did not stink, neither was there any worm therein. 25 And Moses said, Eat that to day; for to day is a sabbath unto the Lord: to day ye shall not find it in the field. 26 Six days ye shall gather it; but on the seventh day, which is the sabbath, in it there shall be none. 27 And it came to pass, that there went out some of the   people on the seventh day for to gather, and they found none. God sent food everyday for six days but sent none on the seventh. The food which was sent on the first five days could not remain edible overnight but the one sent on the sixth day could be eaten on the seventh day. God demonstrated that food properly prepared on the sixth day can be eaten on the seventh day. Although they were told that no food would be sent on the seventh day some still went out searching for food. Their disobedience was displeasing to God but He knew that not all would be obedient to His commands. What about us today, how many of us are obedient to His commands? How many of us cook or heat our foods on the Sabbath and are convinced that you are doing right? How many places of worship and leaders accommodate this practice? It was not God’s intention to keep supplying food for every Sabbath so He gave instructions about food preparation for Sabbath. He commanded us to bake or seethe/cook on the sixth day what we intend to eat on the Sabbath. This command is still relevant today. Many are concerned about keeping the food warm. We are also concerned about health issues. Let us discuss these issues. For many years we have been concerned about the effects of global warming. We can agree that if we are worried about this phenomenon, it means that the earth is getting warmer. This leads me to another question. In past years when there was no technology and no advanced cooking machines and no threats of global warming what did Sabbath keepers do? Did they all disobey God and made fires or did they eat what they had prepared on Friday? Is it also safe to say that every obedient Sabbath keeper in the past had no health issues? Why are we so overly concerned about warming our food in this present era? Would we be so concerned if we did not have machines at our fingertips? Can we not see the subtle trap that the devil is using to ensnare us? Isn’t God all-wise, would He have given the world’s population an impossible task? God knew that ranging from babies to elderly we can all eat what was prepared from Friday if we plan appropriate and sensible menus. Moreover, food prepared for Sabbath ought not to be elaborate and demand maintenance care on Sabbath before it can be eaten . It is sad that we are placing more emphasis on the physical food than on the spiritual food. We are treating going into the House of God to worship as a leisure outing rather than a time of special communication with God.   Exodus 35:3-  Ye shall kindle no fire throughout your habitations upon the Sabbath day. Kindle refers to gathering and putting firewood together. This in itself is work. What if you were living without gas and electricity and the weather is cold? Yes, heating would be necessary but you would have made previous preparations just as you had done for your feeding.  Even if there is fire due to immediate needs such as coldness the fire was not for cooking except there be an emergency. God instructed in Leviticus 6:12-13 - And the fire upon the altar shall be burning in it; it shall not be put out: and the priest shall burn wood on it every morning, and lay the burnt offering in order upon it; and he shall burn thereon the fat of the peace offerings. 13 The fire shall ever be burning upon the altar; it shall never go out. Fire was allowed in the Tabernacle/Temple on the Sabbath because the fire that was present on its altar should never be extinct; it had to keep burning. The fire was a reminder of God’s presence which is always with His creation. We are reminded in 2 Chronicles 16:9 - F or the eyes of the Lord run to and fro throughout the whole earth . The continuous fire burning on the altar also points to the presence of the Holy Spirit within a believer. God accepted burnt offering on the Sabbath day just as He accepts our offerings of worship on the Sabbath, in this new dispensation. Numbers 28:9-10 - And on the Sabbath day two lambs of the first year without spot, and two tenth deals of flour for a meat offering, mingled with oil, and the drink offering thereof: 10 This is the burnt offering of every Sabbath, beside the continual burnt offering, and his drink offering. Jesus referred to this in Mathew 12:5 -     Or have ye not read in the law, how that on the sabbath days the priests in the temple profane the sabbath, and are blameless? Here Jesus was pointing out that to have a fire burning with that which could be eaten on it was one way of profaning the Sabbath. This is a clear indication that cooking on the Sabbath is one way of profaning the Sabbath. The priests were guiltless because God allowed them to offer burnt offerings. Likewise, if we make a fire and prepare food etc for someone in an emergency we are guiltless. God is fair and just in His actions. What can be done on the Sabbath? While you will not be busy cooking or doing other forbidden work you can assist in emergencies. We can do what is good. Jesus is our Perfect Example; here are examples set by Him. Matthew 12:1 - At that time Jesus went on the Sabbath day through the corn; and his disciples were an hungred, and began to pluck the ears of corn and to eat. The corn was within hand’s reach and the disciples were hungry. Jesus allowed them to put forth their hands and pluck the corn and eat them. They did not make fire to cook them nether did they use a ladder or a stick to get the food. Jesus also healed on the Sabbath. And, behold, there was a man which had his hand withered. And they asked Him, saying, Is it lawful to heal on the Sabbath days? that they might accuse Him. 11 And He said unto them, What man shall there be among you, that shall have one sheep, and if it fall into a pit on the Sabbath day, will he not lay hold on it, and lift it out? 12 How much then is a man better than a sheep? Wherefore it is lawful to do well on the Sabbath days. 13  Then saith He to the man, Stretch forth thine hand. And He stretched it forth; and it was restored whole, like as the other. Jesus pointed out that those who adhere to whether the Mosaic Laws or God’s Ten Commandments should do good on the Sabbath days. This means that it is permissible to help one in distress on the Seventh Day Sabbath or any Feast Days Sabbaths. Many are concerned about travelling on the Sabbath. It is permissible to travel on the Sabbath to propagate the Gospel of Truth but such travel should not be extensive. Bear in mind that when preparing for the Sabbath you should also prepare for your animals. I cannot give permission for food to be heated on the Sabbath. I do not possess such power. However, based on Scripture, I can encourage you to do what is good. Just follow Jesus. Example. God has not changed; His principles are firm – Malachi 3:6 -   For I am the Lord, I change not . Hebrews 13:8 -   Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and today, and forever.     Writer - A. E. Fisher  We welcome your questions and feedback.  You may contact us at ofthelivinggodchurch@gmail.com  https://www.pillarandgroundofthetruth.online/       Other Relevant Teachings Jesus is not Almighty God; He is the Only Begotten Son of God How many heavens are in place? Creation and fall of Lucifer The Ten Commandments Remember the Sabbath Day Speaking in tongues The truth about Easter Why be baptised? What happens after death? The handwriting of Ordinances

What does the Bible say about heaven and why do Christians believe in the concept of heaven? Who created heaven and for what purpose was it created? Is there more than one heaven, if so, how is that proven from Scriptures?   Almighty God is the Sovereign Lord and Creator of all things. Nothing came by evolution as posited by humans. God is the Perfect and Only Designer of the universe and all it contained at the beginning. Psalm 19:1-2 tell us, The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament sheweth His handywork.Day unto day uttereth speech and night unto night sheweth knowledge . The Scripture is very clear about God’s creative powers and designs. Take into consideration the following Scriptures.   By the word of the Lord were the heavens made; and all the host of them by the breath of His mouth. Psalm 33:6   Of old hast Thou laid the foundation of the earth: and the heavens are the work of Thy hands. Psalm 102:25   Mine hand also hath laid the foundation the earth and My right hand hath spanned the heavens; When I call unto them, they stand together.  Isaiah 48:13   And, Thou, Lord, in the beginning hast laid the foundation of the earth; and the heavens are the works of Thine hands.  Hebrews 1:10   Where wast thou when I laid the foundations of the earth? declare, if thou hast understanding . Job 38:4   The Bible speaks about heaven in three contexts and shows the differences between each. Let us examine each context.   Terrestrial Heaven - the sky or atmosphere- The First Heaven   Genesis 1:1,6-8 - In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth. And God said, Let there be a firmament in the midst of the waters, and let it divide the waters from the waters. 7  And God made the firmament, and divided the waters which were under the firmament from the waters which were above the firmament: and it was so. 8  And God called the firmament Heaven .   This is the heaven that aeroplanes pass through. The rain, snow, sleet and hail that falls to the earth comes from the atmospheric heaven. It is the heaven that we look up and see with our natural eyes and where the birds fly.   On their journey to the Promised Land, God   told the Children of Israel:  But the land, whither ye go to possess it, is a land of hills and valleys, and drinketh water of the rain of heaven. ( Deuteronomy 11:11) Isaiah 55:10 - For as the rain cometh down, and the snow from heaven, and returneth not thither, but watereth the earth, and maketh it bring forth and bud, that it may give seed to the sower, and bread to the eater.   By them shall the fowls of the heaven have their habitation, which sing among the branches . ( Psalm 104:12)   Celestial/Starry Heaven- The Second Heaven   Heaven not only refers to the atmosphere just above the earth but also refers to outer space, where the stars and planets are located. This is the second heaven.   Genesis 1:14-15 -   And God said, Let there be lights in the firmament of the heaven to divide the day from the night; and let them be for signs, and for seasons, and for days, and years: 15  And let them be for lights in the firmament of the heaven to give light upon the earth: and it was so.   Apostle Paul made an analogy citing the differences between terrestrial and celestial bodies. He said, There are also celestial bodies, and bodies terrestrial: but the glory of the celestial is one, and the glory of the terrestrial is another. (1Corinthians 15:40)   The writer of Psalm 83 said, When I consider Thy heavens, the work of Thy fingers, the moon and the stars, which Thou hast ordained  (Psalm 8:3)   The Prophet Isaiah also spoke about the celestial heaven. Isaiah 13:10 - For the stars of heaven and the constellations thereof shall not give their light: the sun shall be darkened in his going forth, and the moon shall not cause her light to shine .   Although humans have made significant technological advances in exploring the terrestrial heaven, they are unable to fully explore the celestial heaven.   HEAVEN OF HEAVENS -The Third Heaven   Almighty God is everywhere at the same time but the Third Heaven is His special abode. Jesus taught us to pray recognising God in His Sacred Dwelling . Matthew 6:9-  After this manner therefore pray ye: Our Father Which art in heaven, hallowed be Thy name.   The following Scriptures confirm His dwelling place.   The Lord looketh from heaven; He beholdeth all the sons of men. From the place of His habitation He looketh upon the inhabitants of the earth . (Psalm 33:13–14)   Thus saith the Lord, The heaven is My throne, and the earth is My footstool: where is the house that ye build unto Me? and where is the place of my rest? ( Isaiah 66:1)   And the Temple of God was opened in heaven, and there was seen in His temple the ark of His testament: and there were lightnings, and voices, and thunderings, and an earthquake, and great hail . (Revelation 11:19). God rules from His Heaven. He said  - Can any hide himself in secret places that I shall not see him? saith the Lord. Do not I fill heaven and earth? saith the Lord.  ( Jeremiah 23:24)   What did Jesus say about the Third Heaven?   Jesus encouraged us to focus on the blessings which shall come to us from the Third Heaven.   Matthew 6:19-20- Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal: But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal .   When the rich young man came enquiring about obtaining eternal life, Jesus said unto him, If thou wilt be perfect, go and sell that thou hast, and give to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come and follow Me. ( Matthew 19:21)   Jesus came from the Third Heaven and He returned there forty days after His resurrection. He told us in John 6:51- I am the living bread which came down from heaven: if any man eat of this bread, he shall live for ever: and the bread that I will give is My flesh, which I will give for the life of the world.   Acts 1:10-11 is a record of His return to the Third Heaven - And while they looked steadfastly toward heaven as He went up, behold, two men stood by them in white apparel; Which also said, Ye men of Galilee, why stand ye gazing up into heaven? this same Jesus, which is taken up from you into heaven, shall so come in like manner as ye have seen Him go into heaven.   Stephen, the first martyr had a vision of Him in the Third Realm. Acts 7:56 - And said, Behold, I see the heavens opened, and the Son of Man standing on the right hand of God     Jesus told us no human can enter the Third Heaven. John 3:13 - And no man hath ascended up to heaven, but He that came down from heaven, even the Son of Man which is in heaven. John 8:21 - Then said Jesus again unto them, I go My way, and ye shall seek Me, and shall die in your sins: whither I go, ye cannot come.   God keeps a record of our individual life. He sees our actions, hears our speeches and knows our thoughts. If we are not justified by the blood of Jesus, we cannot look forward to the coming of Jesus our Redeemer. Philippians 3:20 - For our conversation is in heaven; from whence also we look for the Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ .   We are saved through Christ’s sacrifice. We are draw to God through Christ and we ought to give honour to Jesus, the Sacrificial Lamb. Truly the justified can say in sincerity -   Whom have I in heaven but Thee? and there is none upon earth that I desire beside Thee. 26  My flesh and my heart faileth: but God is the strength of my heart, and my portion for ever . ( Psalm 73:25-26)   What did Apostle Paul say about the Third Heaven ? Stephen, Paul and John all had a vision of the Third Heaven . Apostle Paul said,   I knew a man in Christ above fourteen years ago, (whether in the body, I cannot tell; or whether out of the body, I cannot tell: God knoweth;) such an one caught up to the third heaven.  (2 Corinthians 12:2) Paul did not go into the Third Heaven he only had a vision.   Satan and his agents occupy the first and second heaven but they dare not attempt to enter the Third Heaven. When God puts an end to sin and destroy the forces of darkness, He shall remove the present first and second heavens. Jesus told us that both the atmospheric and celestial heavens shall pass. Matthew 24:35 - Heaven and earth shall pass away, but My words shall not pass away. Let us exalt Almighty God the Incomparable Designer. Be thou exalted, O God, above the heavens: and Thy glory above all the earth.  ( Psalm 108:5)   Writer - A. E. Fisher  We welcome your questions and feedback.  You may contact us at   ofthelivinggodchurch@gmail.com   https://www.pillarandgroundofthetruth.online/      Other Relevant Teachings Jesus is not Almighty God; He is the Only Begotten Son of God Creation and fall of Lucifer How should the Sabbath be kept? The Ten Commandments Remember the Sabbath Day Speaking in tongues The truth about Easter Why be baptised? What happens after death? The handwriting of Ordinances

Taking a brief look at the LAW OF THE ORDINANCES These Scriptures are referring to the Ten Commandments which is the most powerful doctrine in the Bible. 1st John 3:4 , Whosoever committeth sin transgresseth also the law: for sin is the transgression of the law.   Romans 7:7 , What shall we say then? Is the law sin? God forbid. Nay, I had not known sin, but by the law: for I had not known lust, except the law had said, Thou shalt not covet . The Ten Commandments were written by God on tables of stone and were given to Moses to be placed inside the Ark of the Covenant. The Ark of the Covenant was a rectangular shaped box made from shittim wood and overlaid with gold. On top of it was the Mercy Seat. The laws written by Moses which are called the Laws of the Ordinances were written in a book and placed in the side of the Ark on the outside.  The Ten Commandments are different from the laws written by Moses which are called the Laws of the Ordinances. The Ten Commandments were given to every human and God expects everyone to live in total obedience to them. The Ten Commandments are also called The Law of Liberty, The Royal Law and The Moral Laws. These Laws were instituted by God as way marks and guidelines for Believers. If we obey them we are assured of everlasting life. Revelation 22:14 states, Blessed are they that do His commandments, that they may have right to the tree of life, and may  enter in through the gates into the city.    From the Laws of the Ten Commandments, we get knowledge of sin. Romans 3:20 tells us that by the law is the knowledge of sin . In Psalm 119:142 and 172 we are told that the Commandments are righteousness and truth . Psalm 111: 7-8 tells us that God’s Laws will live forever and ever . James 2:10 reminds us that   if we break one, we are guilty of all .   The Law of the Ordinances which were added because of man’s disobedience to God’s Ten Commandments  includes the laws of rituals and sacrifices. The sacrifices include animal sacrifices which were used to atone for sins. The blood of animals could not perfectly atone for the sins of humanity. Therefore, Jesus came and died on the cross so that His perfect sacrifice could atone and redeem us from our sins.   Hebrews 7:23-27 tells us about the eternal and excellent priesthood and sacrifice of Jesus. And they truly were many priests, because they were not suffered to continue by reason of death: But this Man, because He continueth ever, hath an unchangeable priesthood. Wherefore He is able also to save them to the uttermost that come unto God by Him, seeing He ever liveth to make intercession for them. For such an High Priest became us, who is holy, harmless, undefiled, separate from sinners, and made higher than the heavens; Who needeth not daily, as those high priests, to offer up sacrifice, first for His own sins, and then for the people's: for this He did once, when He offered up Himself.   Yes, Jesus became our High Priest; therefore, we have no need of an earthly priest to make sacrifices for us. We have no further need for the blood of animals or any other sacrifice to connect us to God, our Father. You don’t have to slay the lamb anymore, You don’t have to put the blood on the door, Someone has taken the place of the lamb, Jesus the Great I am . Yes, Jesus put an end to the Laws of Ordinances which were a burden to us. Whereas 1st John 5:3 tells us, For this is the love of God, that we keep His commandments: and his commandments are not grievous . Colossians 2:14 tells us that the Laws of the Ordinances were against us.   When Jesus was dying on the cross the curtain in the Temple which separated Holy Place (the Sanctuary) from the Most Holy (the part of the Sanctuary where atonement was made annually) was torn in two. For the first time every eye could behold what was behind the curtain. Matthew 27: 51 says , And, behold, the veil of the temple was rent in twain from the top to the bottom; and the earth did quake, and the rocks rent. Animal blood could no longer atone for sins.   Let us examine a few Scriptures which will educate us about the Laws of the Ordinances.   God wrote the Ten Commandments twice, the first time He hewed the stone Himself and wrote on it. When it was broken by Moses, He told Moses to hew the stones and take it to Him. Deuteronomy 10:1-5 At that time the Lord said unto me, Hew thee two tables of stone like unto the first, and come up unto Me into the mount, and make thee an ark of wood. And I will write on the tables the words that were in the first tables which thou brakest, and thou shalt put them in the ark. And I made an ark of shittim wood, and hewed two tables of stone like unto the first, and went up into the mount, having the two tables in mine hand. And He wrote on the tables, according to the first writing, the Ten Commandments, which the Lord spake unto you in the mount out of the midst of the fire in the day of the assembly: and the Lord gave them unto me. And I turned myself and came down from the mount, and put the tables in the ark which I had made; and there they be, as the Lord commanded me.   Moses wrote the Laws of the Covenant as He was inspired or told by God. Deuteronomy 31;9-11,24-26, And Moses wrote this law, and delivered it unto the priests the sons of Levi, which bare the ark of the covenant of the Lord, and unto all the elders of Israel. And Moses commanded them, saying, At the end of every seven years, in the solemnity of the year of release, in the Feast of Tabernacles, When all Israel is come to appear before the Lord thy God in the place which He shall choose, thou shalt read this law before all Israel in their hearing. And it came to pass, when Moses had made an end of writing the words of this law in a book, until they were finished, That Moses commanded the Levites, which bare the Ark of the Covenant of the Lord, saying, Take this book of the law, and put it in the side of the Ark of the Covenant of the Lord your God, that it may be there for a witness against thee.   What is Said About The Laws of the Ordinances?   Having abolished in His flesh the enmity, even the law of commandments contained in ordinances; for to make in Himself of twain one new man, so making peace; Ephesians 2:15   Blotting out the handwriting of ordinances that was against us, which was contrary to us, and took it out of the way, nailing it to His cross; Colossians 2:14   And they removed the burnt offerings, that they might give according to the divisions of the families of the people, to offer unto the Lord, as it is written in the book of Moses. And so did they with the oxen . 2nd Chronicles 35:12   Christ hath redeemed us from the curse of the law, being made a curse for us: for it is written, Cursed is every one that hangeth on a tree: Galatians 3:13   Wherefore then serveth the law? It was added because of  transgressions, till the seed should come to whom the promise was made; and it was ordained It is also written in your law, that the testimony of two men is true . Galatians 3:19   And He said unto them, These are the words which I spake unto you, while I was yet with you, that all things must be fulfilled, which were written in the law of Moses, and in the prophets, and in the psalms, concerning Me . Luke 24:44   If a man on the Sabbath day receive circumcision, that the law of Moses should not be broken; are ye angry at me, because I have made a man every whit whole on the sabbath day? J ohn 7:23   Galatians 3:24-25 - Wherefore the law was our schoolmaster to bring us unto Christ, that we might be justified by faith. But after that faith is come, we are no longer under a schoolmaster.   John 1:17 For the law was given by Moses, but grace and truth came by Jesus Christ.   Yes, some of the laws which Moses wrote in a book were oppressive and strict. It was so restrictive that it did not show the awesome love and mercy of God. Jesus came and tore away this bondage and gave us freedom. We are now able to enjoy the peace and joy that comes from knowing Christ.   Christ did not come to put an end to the Moral Laws; He came to put an end to the laws which did not give true spiritual freedom. Many are confused and are unable to differentiate between the Ten Commandments and the Laws of the Ordinances. They believe that both are the same and Jesus had put them aside and there is no need to obey any of them especially the weekly Sabbath. This is a great deception because God expects us to show our love and obedience to Him by obeying the Ten Commandments.   Man says Jesus put aside the Laws of God but Jesus said , For verily I say unto you, Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law, till all be fulfilled.   The Ten Commandments are binding but the Laws of the Ordinances which had the people in bondage were done away with through Jesus Christ. If you believe this and live in obedience then you shall obtain life everlasting but if you know the truth and reject it you shall be dammed .    Writer - A. E. Fisher    We welcome your questions and feedback.  You may contact us at ofthelivinggodchurch@gmail.com     https://www.pillarandgroundofthetruth.online/     Other Relevant Teachings Jesus is not Almighty God; He is the Only Begotten Son of God How many heavens are in place? Creation and fall of Lucifer How should the Sabbath be kept? The Ten Commandments Remember the Sabbath Day Speaking in tongues The truth about Easter Why be baptised? What happens after death? The handwriting of Ordinances

HOSEA WAS SPEC1ALLY CALLED BY GOD TO LIVE A LIFE AND MAKE CHOICES THAT WAS THEN RELATABLE TO THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN ISRAEL AND GOD. My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge: because thou hast rejected knowledge, I will also reject thee, that thou shalt be no priest to Me: seeing thou hast forgotten the law of thy God, I will also forget thy children. 7 As they were increased, so they sinned against Me: therefore will I change their glory into shame. 8 They eat up the sin of My people, and they set their heart on their iniquity. 9 And there shall be, like people, like priest: and I will punish them for their ways, and reward them their doings. 10 For they shall eat, and not have enough: they shall commit whoredom, and shall not increase: because they have left off to take heed to the Lord. 11 Whoredom and wine and new wine take away the heart.   God has a unilateral covenant with Israel which is still in effect although throughout the years as a nation they have not been faithful to God. This covenant is an example of the boundless love of God. This agreement is not saying that God disregards sin; no, it is a sign of God’s mercy. There is a penalty for sin and everyone including Israel must pay the penalty for our sinful choices. The tribes of Ephraim and Manasseh represented Joseph. The message of Hosea was specifically to Ephraim as a group of tribes. This group comprised of: Asher, Naphtali, Simeon, Ephraim, Zebulun, Manasseh, Issachar, Reuben, Dan and Gad.  These tribes are called the Ten Tribes, Israel or Ephraim and were extremely disobedient to God. The Levites were the priestly tribe and unlike the other tribes which had specific location as their inheritance the Levites’ inheritance was among all tribes. This was God’s plan because it was their responsibility to keep the people focused on Jehovah. They failed in their responsibility as many of them stood in solidarity with the disobedient Israelites. When the Assyrians captured the Ten Tribes, Levites among them were also taken. The other tribes -Benjamin, Judah and a portion of the Levites were called Judah. They were not very obedient but had behaved a little better than the others. God was displeased with them and they were oppressed by nations the most dominant were the Babylonians. When Judah fell into sin and the Babylonians captured them the Levites among them were also taken. This message from Hosea 4:6-11 is very important, in it the Lord was addressing the wilful ignorance and rebellion of Israel. There is a difference between not knowing and being wilfully ignorant. When one is wilfully ignorant it means you are openly rebellious against God. God said through the prophet Hosea, “ My people are destroyed for the lack of knowledge because they have rejected knowledge and because they have rejected knowledge, He will also reject them .” God had told Israel that He had called them as a special people to be priest for Him and to spread His word and also to work in His vineyard. He further stated that they had rejected the knowledge of the truth so He will also reject them as workers in His vineyard. That was what He meant when He said that they would be no more priest to Him. He said so because they had not only forgotten about the simple rules and regulations that are guidelines but they had rejected His Laws. Yes, they had put aside the Laws that God had given to them and have taken upon themselves something else which is not of God. In doing so they still believe they were doing the will of God and would be allowed to enter the Kingdom of God. We learn from 1st John 3:4- Whosoever committeth sin transgresseth also the law: for sin is the transgression of the law.    The Lord said, “ I will also forget thy children” Why would He say that? It is the parents’ responsibility to live in righteousness according to God’s word so that they can leave a legacy of blessings for their offspring.   The statement “ I will also forget thy children”  does not mean that God will reject the offspring of the disobedient; God is a merciful and forgiving God and would leave them in the cold. God pointed out that the more He had blessed the Ten Tribes was the more they multiplied. The more they multiplied numerically the more they increased in materialism, in power and status and in sinning against Him. So, it is with many persons the more God opens door for them, the more ungrateful and evil-hearted they become in the presence of God.   The Lord determined that because they have increased in sin against Him, He was going to turn their glory into shame and all that He had given to them He would allow to become weapons of obstruction to them. When God blesses us, when God open doors for us, when He flies open the windows, we are to be grateful to God. The main way we show that we are grateful is by being obedient to the will of God and to live according to His precepts. However, many times when God opens doors for us, we believe we have opened our own doors and windows. We forgot where the blessings came from.   The Scriptures also tell us, they eat up the sins of My people, they set their hearts in iniquity .  When persons are iniquitous they are set in committing evil and will not readily turn from their evil ways. They partake in evil as they eat food, they generate evil thoughts which flows like water. Their actions are iniquitous because they are consistent and persistent in evil and not in good. In verse 9 God was saying that the people were like the priests there was no difference between the pulpit and the floor. The priest comes from among the people, so if the people are consistently evil you have to examine the behaviour of the leaders. At that time most were saying and doing the same evils. Being evil, they call evil good, they call unrighteousness, righteousness and they believe they were still a special holy people to God. Leaders have a great responsibility and must be consistent in applying righteous discipline. By doing this there will be saintly people among the disobedient.  There are many persons who believe that they are going to enter the Kingdom of God because of affiliation of one sort or the other, but affiliation cannot guarantee entrance into the Kingdom of God. Earthly affiliation cannot guarantee entrance into the Kingdom of God. What guarantees entrance is a solid knowledge of the word of God, abiding by the word of God, living in obedience to the will of God and being committed to God. Outside of that one cannot enter the Kingdom of God. We cannot hold the truth in unrighteousness, we cannot know and refuse from doing, we have to do that which we know to be truth.   The word of God says, “ I will punish them for their ways and reward them for their doings .” They are not going to escape, said the Lord. I will punish them for their ways and reward them for their doing. Just as how God will reward you for good so He will reward you for bad. Some people on their deathbeds confess. They give a testimony, of good or evil. When they are confessing their evil deeds, kins and friends begin to seek and apply ways to stop them from bringing further disgrace upon the family. When a child of God is going home, you want the whole world to know that you are going. You leave a wonderful testimony talking about God’s wonderful salvation plan; His glorious promises and the blessings which awaits you.   Verse ten tells us, “ for they shall eat and not have enough . ” Just as Israel endured famine because of their willful disobedience so will we have famines in this world. There are famines for the genuine word of God and literal food, right know. Today the people of God, the Jews are in famine because the word of God says, “ blindness impart as happened to them until the time of the Gentiles be fulfilled .” (Romans 11:25) The word of God is fulfilled upon them spiritually and physically; they went through physical famines and biblical and historical records tell us that they had to eat every kind of unnatural and unclean things. They also had to drink their urine, they went through all of that because of sin. The very people whom God had told that when they passed your faeces, they should make sure to have a paddle so that they can dig a hole to bury it because He, God, did not want to pass and see it. Leviticus 23 verses 13-14 - And thou shalt have a paddle upon thy weapon; and it shall be, when thou wilt ease thyself abroad, thou shalt dig therewith, and shalt turn back and cover that which cometh from thee: 14 For the Lord thy God walketh in the midst of thy camp, to deliver thee, and to give up thine enemies before thee; therefore shall thy camp be holy: that He see no unclean thing in thee, and turn away from thee. This very same people turned to eat their own faeces; that is what sin does.   The word of God says they shall come with whoredom. Whoredom here refers to spiritual whoredom and physical whoredom. They committed whoredom because they had departed from God. Today in the spiritual realm or places of worship, a lot of whoredom is taking place, because people are deviating from the word of God.   God told Hosea to tell them that they shall not increase because they do not want to hear the word of God. Contentment had filled their heart; they are self- fulfilled. This is similar to behaviours today. God said, listen to Me, I will punish you. He will punish us for the wine of falsehood which we are enjoying and the whoredoms that we engage in. Apostasy is at an all -time high at this time and it will not decrease until Jesus returns and destroy evil. this is no excuse for us to follow evil practices we must abstain from all form of evil and escape the wrath of God.   There is only one way to the Kingdom of God, and it tells us to seek and ask and when you have found that One Way we ought to walk in it. Some people may call you a fanatic, some will say you have a strange doctrine. Do not let that hinder you from doing the right. Follow the inspired word of God. The word of God tells us to walk in His way and live righteously. May God help us to do so.     Writer - A. E. Fisher    We welcome your questions and feedback.  You may contact us at ofthelivinggodchurch@gmail.com     https://www.pillarandgroundofthetruth.online/ Other Relevant Teachings The Believers' Foundation Spiritual growth through forgiveness and reconciliation Try the Spirit True Conversion Forgive Why be baptised? 2Corinthians 5:17 For i have learnt Repent What happens after death? The truth about Easter Contending for the Faith Contending for the Faith part 2 God's plan of common salvation Who are you in Christ? Speaking in tongues The True Vine Cyrus King of Persia A servant of God Salvation Emancipation Freedom Praise the Lord What does the Bible say about same-sex relationships? Living contrary to righteousness How do you guard your mind? Is masturbation a sinful practice? Should i drink alcoholic beverages? Should a Christian vape or smoke? Why do our enemies triumph over us? Evil communication Judas Iscariot the betrayer Final call Soon there will be no more tears Youths walking the Old Path in a modern world

The letter of Jude consists of one chapter but it is a comprehensive summary of the Bible. Jude verses one and two say: “ Jude, the servant of Jesus Christ, and brother of James, to them that are sanctified by God the Father, and preserved in Jesus Christ, and called: Mercy unto you, and peace, and love, be multiplied. Jude was a follower of Christ and he wrote an epistle to the Church in which he addressed several principles of righteousness. He is referred to as a servant. A servant is one who offers service and is subjected to a ruler. But who is a servant in the spiritual context? A religious servant is one who engages in spiritual matters and serves a master in the spiritual realms.   A spiritual servant either works for the Holy Divine God, or for the evil god, who is Satan. Those who labour for the devil will receive the reward of eternal damnation and those who labour for Jehovah shall receive everlasting life. It is impossible for you to work for both of them. Jesus said that you cannot serve God and Mammon.   Notice that Jude was writing to those who are sanctified by Almighty God, the God of all creation. What does it mean to be sanctified? When one is sanctified by God that individual is set aside by God for His divine purpose. A sanctified person cannot be a companion to wrongdoers because they are not cut from the same cloth.   How can you be sanctified? Sanctification cannot be bought neither can one bribe the Giver. It comes from your obedience and commitment to the will of God. When you are sanctified by God, you will say as Jesus did in John 4: 34, ‘My meat is to do the will of Him who sent Me and to finish His work. ’ A sanctified person not only lives righteously by following the example set by Christ but also work diligently to spread the Gospel of Truth and to win souls for the Kingdom of God.   Notice that the sanctified soul is preserved and called in Christ . Jesus said in Matthew 20:16, “ many be called but few chosen .” The only ones who will be chosen are those who walk in total obedience to the will of God. There are several principles which one must follow if one desires to be called and chosen by God. Such principles include: being truthful, honest, trustworthy, faithful, committed, prayerful and spiritually fervent. Hypocrites will not be chosen by God because He does not condone hypocrisy.   The sanctified individual is preserved by Christ. Why it is that Christ is the One who offers preservation and why is it necessary for Him to preserve us? Romans 3:23 tells us that all have sinned and come short of the glory of God   and Romans 6:23 says “ the wages of sin is death . 1st John 3:4 explains that whosoever committeth sin trangresseth also the Law because sin is the transgression of the Law.   Within your body there is war of good against evil and Romans 8:7 tells us that this war is a result of our carnal mind . Your carnal mind makes you an enemy to God because you willingly commit sins instead of living holy. Why does the carnal mind sometimes overpower you? Ephesians 6:12 gives the reason. ‘ For we wrestle not against flesh and blood but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.’     Although the devil has set his snare there is a way of escape. John 3:16  tells us, “For God so loved the world that He gave His Only Begotten Son that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish but have everlasting life .” Jesus gave His life to redeem us back to God. Isaiah 53:6 reminds us, all we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned everyone to his own way; and the  Lord  hath laid on Him the iniquity of us all.   When you are a true follower of Christ you are preserved by Him; no weapon which is formed against you shall prosper. He carries you through the storms of life and when your enemies rise up against you; He shall defend you. A true believer is totally covered by the blood of Jesus.   According to verse two -mercy, peace and love is multiplied within the life of a believer. The believer cannot incite war but must be a peacemaker. The believer must be merciful; Jesus stated in Matthew 5:7, “ blessed are the merciful for they shall obtain   mercy .” L ove is the foundation of a believer’s life. I am hereby referring to the pure, healthy agape love which is the love of God which one gets from God as you live in obedience to His will.   If you have not yet surrendered to Christ then today is your hour of salvation. Please remember that tomorrow is not promised to you. God is your Creator and Keeper and He has given you all the blessings which you now enjoy. All He requires in return is that you serve Him in truth and honesty. If you have not yet accepted Him you need to do so now. Psalm 115:17, ‘ the dead praise not the Lord neither any that go down into silence.” Writer:: A. E. Fisher We welcome your questions and feedback.  You may contact us at ofthelivinggodchurch@gmail.com http://www.pillarandgroundofthetruth.online/ Other Relevant Teachings The Believers' Foundation Spiritual growth through forgiveness and reconciliation Try the Spirit True Conversion Forgive Why be baptised? 2Corinthians 5:17 For i have learnt Repent What happens after death? The truth about Easter Contending for the Faith part 2 God's plan of common salvation Who are you in Christ? Speaking in tongues The True Vine Cyrus King of Persia A servant of God Salvation Emancipation Freedom A message from Hosea 4:6-11 Praise the Lord What does the Bible say about same-sex relationships? Living contrary to righteousness How do you guard your mind? Is masturbation a sinful practice? Should i drink alcoholic beverages? Should a Christian vape or smoke? Why do our enemies triumph over us? Evil communication Judas Iscariot the betrayer Final call Soon there will be no more tears Youths walking the Old Path in a modern world

https://www.pillarandgroundofthetruth.online/   John chapter 15 is a wonderful chapter about the promises of God and it gives assurance to the believer. It was first brought to my attention through a contact which God made with me in 1981. Let us examine a few of the verses.   Verse 1 says “ I am the True Vine, and my Father is the Husbandman . ” Jesus said He is the true Vine. There are many vines, even Satan is a vine but is not the True Vine. There is only one True Vine and this is Jesus Christ.   Verse 2 says “ Every branch in Me that beareth not fruit He taketh away: and every branch that beareth fruit, He purgeth it, that it may bring forth more fruit.”   If you are in Christ and you are not bearing the fruit that He desires He will take you out. He will cut you off because it is not possible to be on the Real True Spiritual Vine that is Christ and not be bearing the fruit of righteousness. The Husbandman which is God is the One who assess the believer and knows if that individual is bearing the right fruit.    The Scriptures say that those who are bearing fruit will be purged by God. Children of God go through purging every day, every tribulation, trials and problems that you have in your day to day living, is a form of purging. This purging is what makes you to be a better person, without problems you cannot be spiritually better, without problems you cannot develop into or be the follower that God wants you to be. As we go through life, we do not appreciate the problems that we face but we must learn to embrace them because in every problem that you face God is teaching you a valuable lesson. Ensure that you learn the lesson so that you will not be taught that same lesson again.   Verse 3 says “ Now ye are clean through the word which I have spoken unto you.”    It is the word of God that makes us clean. Many persons believe that it is how energetic you are in worship or how fervent you seem to others but none of these by themselves make you spiritually clean. What makes you clean is your godly lifestyle which is made possible by the indwelling of the Holy Spirit and the studying and understanding of the word of God. This is what leads you into the path that teaches you what God wants you to know.   It is possible to come to an Assembly daily and participate in all activities yet you have not an ounce of godliness in you, because you are not living in obedience to the God’s will and purpose. It is the written word and the guidance of the Holy Spirit that bring understanding of God’s will and submission to His will. The devil always tries to prevent everyone that is called by the name of the Lord from knowing the word because he strives in ignorance. One’s educational capabilities is not a deterrent to obeying God. God ministers to the inner man. Some sometimes or often say I can’t read or I don’t like to read, I don’t like to write, I don’t like to do this, I don’t like to do that. That is the devil at work in those life; he loves to put boundaries around you that will prevent your blessings.   Verse 4 says “ Abide in Me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine; no more can ye, except ye abide in Me. ”   By abiding in Me, Jesus means live in Me and when you live in Me, I will live in you. Jesus can only live in you when you are bearing the right fruit. He can only live in you when you are the real true branch attached to the real True Vine. Jesus further stated that if you do not live in Me, you cannot bear fruit, you cannot be out there hanging in the wind and you bear the right fruit, you only do so when you abide in Christ. It is good to live a life that is pleasing to God, it is good to live a life that is in Christ so that as you go from day to day you can bring forth godly fruit.   Verse 5 says “ I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in Me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without Me ye can do nothing. ”   Jesus said that He is the Vine and everyone who has repented, been converted and transformed into a new creature is the branch. You cannot be a branch unless you have repented and turned from sin. When you are the branch, you bring forth much fruit. Notice that when you begin to progress you first bring forth fruit, then you bring forth more fruit, then you bring forth much fruit.   Children of God are not static and that is why you do not need to covet anything, because the more you lift up God is the more God uplifts you. When you lift up God with a true heart, you live for Him not because you are looking for something but because you love Him and you have dedicated yourself to Him. As you obey Him, He will lift you up and multiply you as you go along. His gifts are permanent especially to the obedient ones. What God has given to anyone cannot be taken away except by Him.   Verse 6 says “ If a man abide not in me, he is cast forth as a branch, and is withered; and men gather them, and cast them into the fire, and they are burned. ”   If one does not abide in Christ, live in Him or obey His words such individual will not be accepted in God’s Kingdom. What does it mean to abide in Christ? It means being obedient and living in obedience to the will of God. That is where we have a problem, because being humans with a carnal desire we want to do our own thing, sometimes we think that God is too slow or restrictive. Sometimes the way in which God is dealing with something is not how you want to deal with it, so you want to find another avenue to deal with it, but the word of God tells us, if you are not living in obedience to God through Jesus Christ, then you shall be cast off as a branch and you shall wither.   Now what do you do with something that is withered and has become dried wood? You take it and light a fire. So, when one is cast off from Christ, one has become useless and is only suitable for the fire. When you are cast off you have no good relationship with God, you might think you have one but you have not. Many who are living in hypocrisy are empowered by familiar spirits. These familiar spirits do not give rest. There is always an inner battle being fought. Everyone should be aware of the manifestations of familiar spirits because this spirit can be transferred through contact activities. There can also be a transference of power. We must be vigilant to avoid the transference of familiar power, because if an individual has the spirit of lie and he/she is your close friend, you steadily become a liar because you are mingling with the same spirit. If you do not have the same spirit, you cannot be close friend of anyone whose behaviour is in rebellion to holiness.   If the individual is full of pride or is contentious and that individual is your close friend you can acquire that spirit and get corrupted as you go along. It is fitting that we bear in mind this quote, “ show me your company and I will tell you who you are . ” If one aligns oneself with people who are spiritual, you become spiritually strong, and if you align yourself with weak fences you will topple over, this has been proven repeatedly. That is why Jesus said if you are not abiding in Me, I am going to cast you off because t wo cannot walk together except they be agreed  (Amos 3:3). Therefore, it is important for us to live in obedience to the will of God.   Verse 7 says “ If ye abide in Me, and My words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you . ”   Many prayers are unanswered because we are not in the will of God, if we are in the will of God we asked according to the will of God and God answers according to His will. Today almost everyone is running after signs and wonders, they do not want the word of God they want signs and wonders and because they are going after signs and wonders they are losing sight of the best thing - the word of God. It says abide in Me and My words will abide in you. As the song writer says “ My stubborn will at last hath yielded I would be Thine and Thine alone, and this the prayer my lips are bringing, Lord, let in me Thy will be done.”   The word of God has power and it gives you strength to fight the Goliaths of your life, it is what gives you the wisdom to overcome the words that are going against you, to make the right decisions and to live a life that is pleasing to God. When the word of God abides in you whatever you ask for will be according to His will. A believer cannot be like Herodias and ask for the head of John the Baptist but will instead ask the Lord for wisdom, knowledge and understanding, ask the Lord to give you a clear eye sight, ask the Lord to give you a clean heart and a clear mind, ask the Lord to remove carnalities from you and that every destructive force that the devil has set up in your life be removed. When you do this, you are building a relationship of holiness with God.   Verse 8 says “ Herein is My Father glorified, that ye bear much fruit; so shall ye be My disciples. ”   When it is that you abide in Jesus and the will of Christ is shown in your life then it is that you will give glory to the Father. That is when God the Father will find glory in you. Your acceptance of Christ will be a great demonstration that Christ’s sacrifice was not in vain. When you are bearing much fruit, you are a disciple of Jesus, ask yourself, am I a disciple of Christ? A disciple is one who is disciplined. Am I disciplined in Christ or am I partially disciplined? If you are partially disciplined you are not a disciple.   Jesus continues in verse 9 which says “ As the Father hath loved Me, so have I loved you: continue ye in My love . ” The song writer wrote “ He left the Splendour of Heaven knowing His destiny, was the lonely hill of Golgotha, there to lay down His life for me. If that isn't love .”   Wasn’t that love? He left the splendour of Heaven knowing that His destiny was the cross on Golgotha’s hill, was the spitting in His face, was the smiting on the cheek, was the gambling for His garment, for the crown of thorns, for the whip on His back and the cross and the journey to the place of crucifixion. He did it for us yet when you are faced with a little difficulty to you the Christian journey becomes hard. Suddenly you cannot manage. You no longer focus on Christ and know thar Him grace is sufficient for you and His strength is made perfect in weakness. Self takes over and pride and ego stand in the way. Your ego is not you, your ego is the devil using you, when the ego comes up recognize that the devil is at work, therefore, remove ego and put Christ in the centre of our lives. We are promised love from the Father if we abide in Christ because Christ loves us unconditionally.   He points out something very important in verse 10 which says “ If ye keep My commandments, ye shall abide in My love; even as I have kept My Father's commandments, and abide in His love. ”   What are the Commandments that He is talking about, it goes back to the same Ten Commandments given on Mount Sinai. Every command that Christ gives is anchored in the Ten Commandments. One will say that it wasn’t Jesus who gave the Commandments, it was God, Jesus gave it too, because as His Father did so did He, whatever His Father does He sanctions it, He said I and my Father are one, therefore, it is God’s Commandments, it is Jesus’s Commandments. It says if you abide in them or you keep them you shall live in Christ’s love, it says because Christ has kept them; He was enjoying His Father’s love.   Verse 11 says “ These things have I spoken unto you, that My joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full. ”   Jesus is telling us these things because He wants us to have joy, everybody has happiness, but when it comes to joy it is your connection in Jesus that gives joy. Joy is a fruit of the spirit, so except the Holy Spirit is living in you, you cannot have joy. When you have joy do not allow any situation to take it from you. There is a song that says “ I still have joy, after all I’ve been through I still have joy. ” Hold onto joy no matter what you are going through, because it is your connection to God. Jesus was telling us that the joy He have within Him will remain in us so that our joy might be full. Do not focus on the negative things in life but focus on the positive things and keep your joy.   Verse 12 says “ This is my Commandment, That ye love one another, as I have loved you. ”    It doesn’t matter what anyone has done to you; there is no need for hatred. Do not hate them, allow God to deal with the issue. He will deal with it in due time. Christ asks us to genuinely love one another. When we talk about love we are talking about agape love which allows us to deal with every situation fairly. Jesus Christ deals with us fair and justly, so it is that we must deal justly.   Verse 14 says “ Ye are My friends, if ye do whatsoever I command you. ”   It says here that you are My friends, in John 13 Jesus spoke about servants, that as a follower of Christ you are a servant. In John 15 He said that you are His friend, in John 20 He says you are His brethren. When you abide in Him know that you are not only a servant, but you are a servant who is a friend, you are a servant who is a brethren, you are a brethren who is still a friend and a servant. Our relationship with Him is intertwined together.     Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down His life for His friends .   Jesus paid it all, all to Him I owe, sin had left a crimson stain, He washed it white as snow . Do not tell me about what I was, do not tell me about what I have left behind, tell me about what I am now. Gone are the days when the devil could have pointed his finger. Now being a person who has been converted to righteousness and living in Christ he has to stand aside and know that he has no authority to accuse you because you are washed in the blood of Jesus Christ, you are saved and sanctified and on your way to the kingdom of God.   Do not harbour thoughts about yesterday, tell yourself about today and your intention to go through. Sing with confidence, “I intend to go thru, I intend to be true, thru sunshine or thru shadows dim ” Even in the rain of circumstances when Jordan is flowing bank to bank, by the grace of God you will go through. Think on the words of this song “ I’m too near to my home, too near to my glorious home, I can’t turn back in sin I’ve made my choice, there is nothing worthwhile to look about now praise God, God’s kingdom is due, I’m too near to my glorious home to turn back now.”     When it is that the devil points his finger, when he throws stones at you, when you look and you see darkness, remember there is light, because your life is hidden in Christ, there must be light. Tell yourself, I am going to be like Jacob, I am going to hang on and I will not let go until I get the blessing from the Lord.   Sometimes we give up too early, we get frustrated too early. P ress on the battle won’t be very, very long, press on the battle won’t be long, if we ever meet again, we will join the glorious run press on the battle won’t be long . The same God who told Jehoshaphat that the battle is not yours it’s the Lords ’, is the same God that fight battles in your life. Weeping might endure for the night but joy comes in the morning, cry through the night but hold on joy is coming. The song writer says “ On Christ the solid rock I stand, all other ground is sinking sand ,” another one said, “ Let me loose myself and find it Lord in Thee may all self be slain oh God and I see all there and it cost me grieve and pain let me find my life again when I loose myself and find it Lord in Thee .” “   Still another encourages us with these words, Lord walk beside me, lead me and guide me and take all those memories of sinning away, hold me so close Lord till I feel your heart beat and don’t let me wonder away. ”   Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down His life for His friends.   Jesus categorised who His friends are, He said you are His friends if you do whatsoever, He commands you. Walk in the will of God, live in the will of God, do not let any circumstances in your life determine whether or not you are going to live for God. Know deep within you that your life is hidden in Christ, you know deep within you that for you to live is Christ and to die is gain, know deep within you that you are anchored on the True Vine and you are cared for by the Husbandman and that as you live and abide in the presence of God from day to day you shall bring forth fruit, you shall bring forth more fruit, you shall bring forth much fruit and you shall be a servant who is both a friend and a brethren of Jesus Christ.   Let your anchor be in the Lord and let nothing persuade you to lose your joy but hold on to your joy. Weeping endures but for a night but joy comes in the morning and every challenge makes you sharper for the Lord, so you are used better, you are more effective, embrace your problems and embrace the power of God in your life. Abide in the Lord and He shall most certainly abide in you. Writer - A. E. Fisher  We welcome your questions and feedback.  You may contact us at   ofthelivinggodchurch@gmail.com      https://www.pillarandgroundofthetruth.online/ Other Relevant Teachings The Believers' Foundation Spiritual growth through forgiveness and reconciliation Try the Spirit True Conversion Forgive Why be baptised? 2Corinthians 5:17 For i have learnt Repent What happens after death? The truth about Easter Contending for the Faith Contending for the Faith part 2 God's plan of common salvation Who are you in Christ? Speaking in tongues Cyrus King of Persia A servant of God Salvation Emancipation Freedom A message from Hosea 4:6-11 Praise the Lord What does the Bible say about same-sex relationships? Living contrary to righteousness How do you guard your mind? Is masturbation a sinful practice? Should i drink alcoholic beverages? Should a Christian vape or smoke? Why do our enemies triumph over us? Evil communication Judas Iscariot the betrayer Final call Soon there will be no more tears Youths walking the Old Path in a modern world

WHAT IS RIGHTEOUSNESS AND HOW DO WE LIVE CONTRARY TO RIGHTEOUSNESS?   I am happy to share a few encouraging words with you on the issue of not living righteously.   What is the meaning of righteousness? Righteousness is doing and living right based on biblical principles as set by our Saviour Jesus Christ . When an individual is not following the teachings and example of Jesus that person is living contrary to God.   What is the meaning of contrary? When an action or a deed is contrary it means that such is opposing, contradictory, conflicting and different . Contrariness in a negative sense is sin. What is sin? 1 John 3:4  -  Whosoever committeth sin transgresseth  also the law: for sin is the transgression of the law.   The Law spoken of is the Ten Commandments. 1 John 5:17 -states plainly  All unrighteousness is sin .   Today many do not want to hear about sin; such messages are often unwelcome. The devil does not appreciate when one preaches against sin and so those who live and teach godliness will not be able to carry out their mission without obstacles. The attack maybe internally or externally. By this the devil hopes to prevent the preaching of sin and so congregations will have a form of godliness but do not exhibit the power and truth of God. We must study God’s words so that we will be able to withstand the tricks of the devil.   Proverbs 4:14-27-   Enter not into the path of the wicked, and go not in the way of evil men. 15  Avoid it, pass not by it, turn from it, and pass away. 16  For they sleep not, except they have done mischief; and their sleep is taken away, unless they cause some to fall. 17  For they eat the bread of wickedness, and drink the wine of violence. 18  But the path of the just is as the shining light, that shineth more and more unto the perfect day. 19  The way of the wicked is as darkness: they know not at what they stumble. 20  My son, attend to my words; incline thine ear unto my sayings. 21  Let them not depart from thine eyes; keep them in the midst of thine heart. 22  For they are life unto those that find them, and health to all their flesh. 23  Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life. 24  Put away from thee a froward mouth, and perverse lips put far from thee. 25  Let thine eyes look right on, and let thine eyelids look straight before thee. 26  Ponder the path of thy feet, and let all thy ways be established. 27  Turn not to the right hand nor to the left: remove thy foot from evil.   These verses show us clearly the differences between righteousness and contrariness. A wicked person is anyone who is not abiding in the will of God. People often classify the wicked as one who commits murder or worship the devil. However, such individuals are only a part of the group. The wicked includes all who: knows the truth and refuses to obey it. The wicked is a liar, is lazy, bias, covetous, backbites, steals, sows discord, has unmarried sexual relationships or is an unfaithful marriage partner. The types of sins which humans commit are too numerous to mention thus in short one who lives contrary to righteousness is anyone who is unwilling to submit himself/herself to God. Such persons are labelled wicked persons. Wicked persons are not wise because such persons lack godly wisdom and refuse to acknowledge and to submit to the supremacy of God.   What is expected from a doer of righteousness? Children of God ought to be kind, caring, compassionate, wise and merciful. The Kingdom of God is their goal; it is impossible to enter into it with a spotted spiritual garment; therefore, they must keep their garments holy. Godliness dictates that we love everyone and pray for the saving of their soul. However, that friendship does not give us the leeway to become engaged in the wickedness of others. Therefore, we are advised to avoid close relationship with the wicked.   God gives His people peace. While the righteous person can rest peacefully the wicked is like a troubled sea. The thoughts of the wicked are unsettled and they are always distrustful of others. A righteous person is contented with what God provides. Proverbs 23:2 tells us to put a knife to our throat if we are gluttonous. This verse also means that one should not be quick to partake in the wealth of the wicked. Many persons are guilty of this crime because even those who claim to be Children of God love to receive gifts from those who amass their wealth unfairly. As a matter of fact, some rely on the gifts of the wicked. Prov.15:29a tells us that God is far from the wicked . The Lord is far from the wicked because the wicked does not seek God and are not willing to learn His wisdom.   Prov.15:14b says the mouth of fools feedeth on foolishness  and Prov. 12:15a says, the way of a fool is right in his own eyes .  It is impossible for those who walk contrary to righteousness to exalt God. They are often not open to correction and are deceived into believing that they are good and perfect. However, we must be reminded that only with God can we be made perfect. On the opposite end, obedient followers of Christ know that they cannot live righteously without Christ and that they are being perfected today for eternal life tomorrow.   Many persons rush after ill-gotten wealth or engage in activities which produce great wealth but Proverbs 13:11a tells us that such wealth will diminish. Moreover, those who amass such wealth often die early and do not get to enjoy it. Therefore, one should heed Jesus’ word when He told us that we should not seek to obtain earthly treasures but we should seek heavenly treasures. Keep in mind Proverbs 27:20, ‘ hell and destruction are never full so the eyes of man are never satisfied.   Another action which is contrary to righteousness is sexual perversions. Presently sexual promiscuity is rife. Many refuse to heed the words of Proverbs 6: 25-29 & 32. which reads, Lust not after her beauty in thine heart; neither let her take thee with her eyelids. 26  For by means of a whorish woman a man is brought to a piece of bread: and the adulteress will hunt for the precious life. 27  Can a man take fire in his bosom, and his clothes not be burned? 28  Can one go upon hot coals, and his feet not be burned? 29  So he that goeth in to his neighbour's wife; whosoever toucheth her shall not be innocent. 32  But whoso committeth adultery with a woman lacketh understanding: he that doeth it destroyeth his own soul.   God created male and female and made us as sexual beings thus we ought to be attracted sexually to the opposite sex. This does not mean that one should abuse this wonderful opportunity. God desires us to keep our bodies pure by abstaining from sexual sins and all other sins.  One takes fire into his or her clothes especially when one is unfaithful to their married spouse. God honours marriage which is done according to His principles. There is no such thing as stealing love on the sly but there are labels such as cheaters, adulterers and adulteresses. One should never break up the marriage of others. Everyone who does such will receive God’s wrath unless sincere repentance is done. When one engages in adultery that individual sins greatly against God. It may seem good but the destruction is coming at the final day.   Proverbs 6:17-19 tells us about the six things that God hates. These are: 17  A proud look, a lying tongue, and hands that shed innocent blood, 18  An heart that deviseth wicked imaginations, feet that be swift in running to mischief, 19  A false witness that speaketh lies, and he that soweth discord among brethren.   Every sin is hinged on these actions for example the evil thoughts are first conceived and cherished in the heart before put into action.    Proverbs 28:21 tells us to have respect of persons is not good: for a piece of bread that man will transgress . This is not saying that we ought to be disrespectful to each other; instead we are being encouraged to be fair in judgement regardless of the status of those in question. Never compromise or take a bribe to pervert justice.   Proverbs 29:22 -23 say, An angry man stirreth up strife, and a furious man aboundeth in transgression.   A man's pride shall bring him low: but honour shall uphold the humble in spirit. Prov. 27:3-4 - A stone is heavy, and the sand weighty; but a fool's wrath is heavier than them both.   Wrath is cruel, and anger is outrageous; but who is able to stand before envy? Anyone who easily gets angry is often biased in judgement. In addition, a demonstration of foolish pride is a sign of unrighteousness. Yet verse 4 says that above the sin of wrath, anger and pride is the sin of envy. Envy is synonymous to covetousness and greed; it is the root cause of all sinful actions. Lucifer festered it in his heart and tried to displace Jehovah. He was driven out of the Third Heaven and now he is Satan, the ruler of darkness and archenemy of good.   False pride makes one boastful and selfish. Proverbs 27:1-2, Boast not thyself of tomorrow; for thou knowest not what a day may bring forth.   Let another man praise thee, and not thine own mouth; a stranger, and not thine own lips .   Whenever some persons speak there is rarely any good that proceed from their mouths. It is best to avoid such persons and not get into any conversation with them. How does the tongue negatively affect others? Proverbs 26:28, A lying tongue hateth those that are afflicted by it; and a flattering mouth worketh ruin . This is telling us that where there is love there is no lying; lying goes hand in hand with hate. Proverbs 10:11 & 18   tells us   t he mouth of a righteous man is a well of life: but violence covereth the mouth of the wicked. He that hideth hatred with lying lips, and he that uttereth a slander, is a fool .   On the aspect of family responsibilities, it is unacceptable for those who are not fulfilling their family responsibilities to claim to be Saints of God. They could learn many lessons from Proverbs 15:19, 6:6-11 which says, the way of the slothful man is as a hedge of thorns. Go to the ant, thou sluggard; consider her ways, and be wise: 7  which having no guide, overseer, or ruler, 8  Provideth her meat in the summer, and gathereth her food in the harvest. 9  How long wilt thou sleep, O sluggard? when wilt thou arise out of thy sleep? 10  Yet a little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to sleep: 11  So shall thy poverty come as one that travelleth, and thy want as an armed man. When one is walking contrary to righteousness that individual exhibits a spirit and a power which is not of God. That is why today we have so many false prophets demonstrating a false power. 1 st  John 4:1 tells us to try the spirit and see if it comes from God.  Isaiah 8: 20, tells us that if those who claim the spirit of God is not speaking to the law and the testimony there is no truth in them. A false spirit will find room in one who is unrighteous. 1st Samuel 16:14, 21-23 tells us about King Saul. It reads, ‘ But the Spirit of the Lord departed from Saul, and an evil spirit from the Lord troubled him. And it came to pass, when the evil spirit from God was upon Saul, that David took an harp, and played with his hand: so Saul was refreshed, and was well, and the evil spirit departed from him.   Apostle Paul encouraged the Church at Corinth to abstain from any acts of unrighteousness. 1st Cor. 5:11 - But now I have written unto you not to keep company, if any man that is called a brother be a fornicator, or covetous, or an idolater, or a railer, or a drunkard, or an extortioner; with such an one no not to eat.     As we look around us, we will observe spiritual chaos as persons try to modernise salvation. There is a sense of righteousness and demonstration of powers which does not come from God. Many are not studying the Bible so they are unaware of the principles and teachings of righteousness. Moreover, there is too much emphasis on spiritual demonstrations and gimmicks and less on following biblical teachings. This results in persons Living Contrary To Righteousness.   Those who have met Christ ought to show that they are walking in the light.  Let us remember that we ought to keep our garments pure. Keep away from sin. Remember that only those who submit themselves to God will inherit eternal life.   What is Christ’ instruction to His followers? Luke 6:45-46 - A good man out of the good treasure of his heart bringeth forth that which is good and an evil man out of the evil treasure of his heart bringeth forth that which is evil; for of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaketh. And why call ye Me, Lord, Lord, and do not the things which I say?       Writer - A. E. Fisher  We welcome your questions and feedback.  You may contact us at   ofthelivinggodchurch@gmail.com   https://www.pillarandgroundofthetruth.online/          Other Relevant Teachings The Believers' Foundation Spiritual growth through forgiveness and reconciliation Try the Spirit True Conversion Forgive Why be baptised? 2Corinthians 5:17 For i have learnt Repent What happens after death? The truth about Easter Contending for the Faith Contending for the Faith part 2 God's plan of common salvation Who are you in Christ? Speaking in tongues The True Vine Cyrus King of Persia A servant of God Salvation Emancipation Freedom A message from Hosea 4:6-11 Praise the Lord What does the Bible say about same-sex relationships? How do you guard your mind? Is masturbation a sinful practice? Should i drink alcoholic beverages? Should a Christian vape or smoke? Why do our enemies triumph over us? Evil communication Judas Iscariot the betrayer Final call Soon there will be no more tears Youths walking the Old Path in a modern world

Communication is the lifeblood of any relationship. Good and effective communication is vital for the success of any institution or company. It is presented in written, oral or non-verbal forms. The ability to communicate effectively can have a profound effect on one's personal, spiritual and professional life.   There are several barriers to communication and these barriers prevent the hearers from correctly understanding the message. These barriers interfere with the transmitting of the message by hindering clarity, accuracy and reception. Thus, barriers generate a breaking down of good communication.   There is good and evil communication. We should always try to avoid evil communication. Evil can be communicated just as good is communicated.    What is evil communication?  Evil communication has uncountable tenacles but a few are: lying, gossiping, tale bearing, sowing discord, indecent language, perjury, backbiting, malice, hypocrisy, swearing, cursing, covetousness, strife, seditions, heresies, bribery, false doctrine, wrath, emulations and idolatry.    We should avoid evil communication in all its forms because it corrupts and destroys the doer and those who receive the poisonous venom. Evil communication impacts on personalities and behaviours and over time you become what you hear, speak and listen, therefore it is best to be very selective and also to avoid all evil.   The Scriptures are clear on evil communication. Let us read some Bible verses.  Proverbs 19:5 - A false witness shall not be unpunished, and he that speaketh lies shall not escape. Proverbs 17:7- Excellent speech becometh not a fool: much less do lying lips a prince. Proverbs16:27-30-   An ungodly man diggeth up evil: and in his lips there is as a burning fire. 28   A froward man soweth strife: and a whisperer separateth chief friends. 29  A violent man enticeth his neighbour, and leadeth him into the way that is not good. 30  He shutteth his eyes to devise froward things: moving his lips he bringeth evil to pass.   Proverbs 17:15- He that justifieth the wicked, and he that condemneth the just, even they both are abomination to the Lord. Proverbs 6:12-14, 16-19 -   A naughty person, a wicked man, walketh with a froward mouth. 13  He winketh with his eyes, he speaketh with his feet, he teacheth with his fingers; 14  Frowardness is in his heart, he deviseth mischief continually; he soweth discord. 16  These six things doth the Lord hate: yea, seven are an abomination unto him: 17  A proud look, a lying tongue, and hands that shed innocent blood, 18  An heart that deviseth wicked imaginations, feet that be swift in running to mischief, 19  A false witness that speaketh lies, and he that soweth discord among brethren.   Proverbs 21:23-27 -   Whoso keepeth his mouth and his tongue keepeth his soul from troubles. 24  Proud and haughty scorner is his name, who dealeth in proud wrath. 25  The desire of the slothful killeth him; for his hands refuse to labour. 26  He coveteth greedily all the day long: but the righteous giveth and spareth not. 27  The sacrifice of the wicked is abomination: how much more, when he bringeth it with a wicked mind? Proverbs 28:23 - A poor man that oppresseth the poor is like a sweeping rain which leaveth no food.  Proverbs 30:5,6,11 -   Every word of God is pure: He is a shield unto them that put their trust in Him. 6  Add thou not unto His words, lest He reprove thee, and thou be   found a liar.   11  There is a generation that curseth their father, and doth not bless their mother. Colossians 3:8 -   But now ye also put off all these; anger, wrath, malice, blasphemy, filthy communication out of your mouth.  How can we prevent knowingly being involved in evil communication? It is not possible for anyone to overcome this attitude without inner strength and God’s wisdom. The Scriptures give us much encouragement.   Galatians 6:6-9-   Let him that is taught in the word communicate unto him that teacheth in all good things. 7  Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap. 8  For he that soweth to his flesh shall of the flesh reap corruption; but he that soweth to the Spirit shall of the Spirit reap life everlasting. 9  And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season, we shall reap, if we faint not.   Hebrews 13:16- But to do good and to communicate forget not: for with such sacrifices God is well pleased. 1Timothy 6:18   That they do good, that they be rich in good works, ready to distribute, willing to communicate    In your daily activities remember that your communication depicts your character. Communicate with dignity and always combine dignity with equality.     Writer - A. E. Fisher  We welcome your questions and feedback.  You may contact us at   ofthelivinggodchurch@gmail.com   https://www.pillarandgroundofthetruth.online/ Other Relevant Teachings The Believers' Foundation Spiritual growth through forgiveness and reconciliation Try the Spirit True Conversion Forgive Why be baptised? 2Corinthians 5:17 For i have learnt Repent What happens after death? The truth about Easter Contending for the Faith Contending for the Faith part 2 God's plan of common salvation Who are you in Christ? Speaking in tongues The True Vine Cyrus King of Persia A servant of God Salvation Emancipation Freedom A message from Hosea 4:6-11 Praise the Lord What does the Bible say about same-sex relationships? Living contrary to righteousness How do you guard your mind? Is masturbation a sinful practice? Should i drink alcoholic beverages? Should a Christian vape or smoke? Why do our enemies triumph over us? Evil communication Judas Iscariot the betrayer Final call Soon there will be no more tears Youths walking the Old Path in a modern world

Read carefully then answer all questions as instructed.   Identify if these statements are TRUE or FALSE   1. The sceptre shall not depart from the tribe of Dan. ……………. 2. Keturah was the mother of the Midianites. ……………… 3. Jacob loved Rachel more than Leah. ………………… 4. Lot had only two children only. ………. 5. Ishmael’s twelve sons were princes. …………. 6. Sarah is the mother of nations. ………… 7. Eve was the mother of all living. ……… 8. Jacob had hairy skin. …… 9. Joseph died in Egypt when he was 110 years old. ….. 10. On the third day God created whales. …. 11. On the sixth day God created creeping things. …… 12. On the fourth day God created the earth. ….. 13. On the fifth day God created fish. ….. 14. Cain had a son whose name was Enoch. …… 15. Mizraim the son of Cush was the father of the Philistines. …… 16. The flood was the first heavy rainfall……………….. 17. Man’s first diet was meat………………. 18. The first bird sent from the ark was a raven…………….. 19. God told Abraham that his offspring would be enslaved in Egypt. ………… 20. Abraham saw three angels but two angels went to Sodom…………….. 21. Both Abraham and Isaac feared that they would have been killed for their wives. ……. 22. Both Sarah and Rebekah needed special intervention from God before they              could conceive. …… 23. After the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah Lot, his wife and children lived         together…… 24. Reuben did not want to harm Joseph but his brothers wanted to get rid of him. …….. 25. The Midianite merchantmen bought Joseph for twenty pieces of silver. ………. Writer A. E. Fisher https://www.pillarandgroundofthetruth.online/ We welcome your questions and feedback.  You may contact us at ofthelivinggodchurch@gmail.com Other Knowledge-based Activities