The WORD — Characteristics of the WORD (Part 2 of ?)

Was Made Flesh…

John 1:14 (KJV)

¹⁴ And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth.

Is Forever…

Mark 13:31 (KJV)

³¹ Heaven and earth shall pass away: but my words shall not pass away.

Gracious…

Luke 4:22 (KJV)

²² And all bare him witness, and wondered at the gracious words which proceeded out of his mouth. And they said, Is not this Joseph’s son?

Mighty…

Luke 4:32 (KJV)

³² And they were astonished at his doctrine: for his word was with power.

Spiritual…

John 6:63 (KJV)

⁶³ It is the spirit that quickeneth; the flesh profiteth nothing: the words that I speak unto you, they are spirit, and they are life.

Life…

John 6:63 (KJV)

⁶³ It is the spirit that quickeneth; the flesh profiteth nothing: the words that I speak unto you, they are spirit, and they are life.

Life Giving…

John 6:68 (KJV)

⁶⁸ Then Simon Peter answered him, Lord, to whom shall we go? thou hast the words of eternal life.

Nothing Compares…

John 7:46 (KJV)

⁴⁶ The officers answered, Never man spake like this man.

Words of Judgment…

John 12:48 (KJV)

⁴⁸ He that rejecteth me, and receiveth not my words, hath one that judgeth him: the word that I have spoken, the same shall judge him in the last day.

Divine…

John 14:24 (KJV)

²⁴ He that loveth me not keepeth not my sayings: and the word which ye hear is not mine, but the Father’s which sent me.

Overtaken…..

A verse break down…..

Galatians 6:1-3 (KJV)

Verse 1

1 Brethren, if a man be overtaken

Definition:

Overtaken: to happen to or affect (someone) in a sudden and unexpected way a :  to catch up with b :  to catch up with and pass by :  to come upon suddenly

 in a fault,

Definition:

Fault:  a physical or intellectual imperfection or impairment

ye which are spiritual 

Definition:

Spiritual (maturity):  of, relating to, consisting of, or affecting the spirit:  concerned with religious values, the development of Christlike character and behavior in the Christian through a renewed mind and tested faith.  (Spiritual maturity requires Christlikeness) (one who is truly renewed and tested, this should be a goal for every Christian),

restore

Definition:

 restore:  return (someone or something) to a former condition, place, or position.

 such an one in the spirit of meekness;

Definition:

meekness:  the fact or condition of being meek; submissiveness.

considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted.

Definition:

tempted:   have an urge or inclination to do something.  attract; allure

Verse 2

² Bear

Definition: 

Bear:  Carry, support, to accept or endure (something) : to assume or accept (something, such as cost or responsibility) (or my personal favorite, sums up the meaning perfectly)  to move while holding up and supporting (something)

ye one another’s burdens,

Definition:

burdens:  something that is carried :  load, duty, responsibility, something oppressive or worrisome

and so fulfil the law of Christ.

Verse 3

³ For if a man think himself to be something,

Definition:

himself to be something:  pride, self-righteous, judgmental,

when he is nothing,

Definition:

nothing:  not anything; no single thing.

he deceiveth himself.

All definitions are copied from the online edition of the Merriam Webster Dictionary)

 

 

 

 

The Shepherd-hood of CHRIST

(I know I haven’t printed a study in a while, but for some reason GOD wouldn’t allow me too.  And HIS ways are always best followed.  This study was finished in May of this year.)

This next study is on the Shepherd-hood of CHRIST. The characteristics of a shepherd according to the bible are as follows:

HE watches over the sheep:

•  As a Provider:  Psalms 23:1-2 (KJV) 23 The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. 2 He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters.
• HE Is Tender:  Isaiah 40:11 (KJV) 11 He shall feed his flock like a shepherd: he shall gather the lambs with his arm, and carry them in his bosom, and shall gently lead those that are with young.
• HE Welcomes back wanderers: I Peter 2:25 (KJV) 25 For ye were as sheep going astray; but are now returned unto the Shepherd and Bishop of your souls.
• HE Is Faithful:  I Peter 5:4 (KJV) 4 And when the chief Shepherd shall appear, ye shall receive a crown of glory that fadeth not away.
• HE Is a Keeper, HE never slumbers or sleeps: Psalm 121:4 (KJV)4 Behold, he that keepeth Israel shall neither slumber nor sleep.
• HE Knows the sheep: John 10:14 (KJV) 14 I am the good shepherd, and know my sheep, and am known of mine.
• HE Calls them:  John 10:3 (KJV) 3 To him the porter openeth; and the sheep hear his voice: and he calleth his own sheep by name, and leadeth them out.
• HE Gathers them:  Isaiah 40:11 (KJV) 11 He shall feed his flock like a shepherd: he shall gather the lambs with his arm, and carry them in his bosom, and shall gently lead those that are with young.  John 10:16 (KJV) 16 And other sheep I have, which are not of this fold: them also I must bring, and they shall hear my voice; and there shall be one fold, and one shepherd.
• HE Guides them:  Psalm 23:2-4 (KJV) He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters.  3 He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name’s sake.  Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.  John 10:3-4 (KJV) 3 To him the porter openeth; and the sheep hear his voice: and he calleth his own sheep by name, and leadeth them out.  4 And when he putteth forth his own sheep, he goeth before them, and the sheep follow him: for they know his voice.
• HE Feeds them:  Psalm 23:5 (KJV) Thou prepares a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over.  Isaiah 40:11  (KJV) ¹¹ He shall feed his flock like a shepherd: he shall gather the lambs with his arm, and carry them in his bosom, and shall gently lead those that are with young.  John 10:9 (KJV) ⁹ I am the door: by me if any man enter in, he shall be saved, and shall go in and out, and find pasture.
• HE Protects and Preserves:  Jeremiah 31:10 (KJV) ¹⁰ Hear the word of the Lord, O ye nations, and declare it in the isles afar off, and say, He that scattered Israel will gather him, and keep him, as a shepherd doth his flock.  Ezekiel 34:10 (KJV) ¹⁰ Thus saith the Lord God; Behold, I am against the shepherds; and I will require my flock at their hand, and cause them to cease from feeding the flock; neither shall the shepherds feed themselves any more; for I will deliver my flock from their mouth, that they may not be meat for them.  Zechariah 9:16 (KJV) ¹⁶ And the Lord their God shall save them in that day as the flock of his people: for they shall be as the stones of a crown, lifted up as an ensign upon his land.
• HE Has Understanding:  Isaiah 56:11 (KJV) ¹¹ Yea, they are greedy dogs which can never have enough, and they are shepherds that cannot understand: they all look to their own way, every one for his gain, from his quarter.
• HE has given to the point of death:  John 10:11-15 (KJV) ¹¹ I am the good shepherd: the good shepherd giveth his life for the sheep. ¹² But he that is an hireling, and not the shepherd, whose own the sheep are not, seeth the wolf coming, and leaveth the sheep, and fleeth: and the wolf catcheth them, and scattereth the sheep. ¹³ The hireling fleeth, because he is an hireling, and careth not for the sheep. ¹⁴ I am the good shepherd, and know my sheep, and am known of mine. ⁵ As the Father knoweth me, even so know I the Father: and I lay down my life for the sheep.  Zechariah 13:7 (KJV) ⁷ Awake, O sword, against my shepherd, and against the man that is my fellow, saith the Lord of hosts: smite the shepherd, and the sheep shall be scattered: and I will turn mine hand upon the little ones.  Matthew 26:31 (KJV) ³¹ Then saith Jesus unto them, All ye shall be offended because of me this night: for it is written, I will smite the shepherd, and the sheep of the flock shall be scattered abroad.  Acts 20:28 (KJV) ²⁸ Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to  all the flock, over the which the Holy Ghost hath made you overseers, to feed the church of God, which he hath purchased with his own blood.

Below are some things my pastor told us (he didn’t know I was doing this study) about the MASTER SHEPHERD, our SAVIOUR, JESUS CHRIST:

The MASTER SHEPHERD was born in the place of shepherds, Bethlehem.  HE was a lamb without spot or blemish:  I Peter 1:19 (KJV) ¹⁹ But with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot: 

Some of the Tools of a Shepherd:

Rod:  weed eater from 2000 years ago used to weed things out, is for warfare, to defend against the enemy,  chastisement and prepares the way.

Staff: has a hook on the end of it.  Is used to draw sheep, guide sheep, lift sheep from entanglements, and rescue

Sling

Bag

Oil

Some things about the Sheep:

Are prone to wander.

Have a bad sense of direction.

Have poor eyesight and hearing.

Will die without the shepherd.

GREAT is THY Faithfulness!!! (Part 2 of Series)

♪Great is Thy faithfulness, O God my Father;
There is no shadow of turning with Thee;
Thou changest not, Thy compassions, they fail not;
As Thou hast been, Thou forever will be.♪

Refrain
♪Great is Thy faithfulness!
Great is Thy faithfulness!
Morning by morning new mercies I see.
All I have needed Thy hand hath provided;
Great is Thy faithfulness, Lord, unto me!♪

♪Summer and winter and springtime and harvest,
Sun, moon and stars in their courses above
Join with all nature in manifold witness
To Thy great faithfulness, mercy and love.♪

Refrain
♪Great is Thy faithfulness!
Great is Thy faithfulness!
Morning by morning new mercies I see.
All I have needed Thy hand hath provided;
Great is Thy faithfulness, Lord, unto me!♪

♪Pardon for sin and a peace that endureth
Thine own dear presence to cheer and to guide;
Strength for today and bright hope for tomorrow,
Blessings all mine, with ten thousand beside!♪

Refrain
♪Great is Thy faithfulness!
Great is Thy faithfulness!
Morning by morning new mercies I see.
All I have needed Thy hand hath provided;
Great is Thy faithfulness, Lord, unto me!♪

Scripture:   Psalm 89:1-2 (KJV)  I will sing of the MERCIES of the Lord for ever: with my mouth will I make known thy FAITHFULNESS to all generations.  ² For I have said, MERCY shall be built up for ever: thy FAITHFULNESS shalt thou establish in the very heavens.

Mercy…….

Definition:  compassion: kindness or forgiveness shown especially to somebody a person has power over, compassionate disposition: a disposition to be compassionate or forgiving of others, something to be thankful for: a welcome event or situation that provides relief or prevents something unpleasant from happening.   No need for revenge.

How many times in life has GOD extended mercy in your life and you didn’t even realize it….. I bet when we get to heaven, we will be shocked at the dangers that HE in HIS infinite wisdom, just politely “sidetracked” to keep us safe.  Below is some things about GOD’s Mercy……

Mercy is renewed each day:  Lamentations 3:22-23 (KJV) ²² It is of the Lord’s mercies that we are not consumed, because his compassions fail not.  ²³ They are new every morning: great is thy faithfulness.

HIS MERCY is shown……

in sparing of life…..  My life is an example of this.  After conceiving three children, and losing two of them thru death.  My third child, Jacob came into this world with heart disease.  When he was diagnosed, the doctors decided to look further, to see where in the family this particular strain of heart disease came from.  When all the test came back, I was the one that had heart disease.  I had symptoms all my life, but was never checked.  By the time the disease was found I had 18% heart function.  I eventually wound up on the transplant list.  GOD spared my life on October 24, 2003, by giving me a new heart.  HE has proven this over and over in HIS Word….  One of the examples I like to use is Hezekiah in the book of II Kings, chapter 20.  In this chapter Hezekiah was sick and the prophet Isaiah came to tell him, to “set thine  house in order”.  Hezekiah was not satisfied with this, so he cried unto the LORD.  The LORD heard him, and spared his life for 15 more years….  2 Kings 20:1-6 (KJV) 20 In those days was Hezekiah sick unto death. And the prophet Isaiah the son of Amos came to him, and said unto him, Thus saith the Lord, Set thine house in order; for thou shalt die, and not live. ² Then he turned his face to the wall, and prayed unto the Lord, saying,³ I beseech thee, O Lord, remember now how I have walked before thee in truth and with a perfect heart, and have done that which is good in thy sight. And Hezekiah wept sore. ⁴ And it came to pass, afore Isaiah was gone out into the middle court, that the word of the Lord came to him, saying, ⁵ Turn again, and tell Hezekiah the captain of my people, Thus saith the Lord, the God of David thy father, I have heard thy prayer, I have seen thy tears: behold, I will heal thee: on the third day thou shalt go up unto the house of the Lord. ⁶ And I will add unto thy days fifteen years; and I will deliver thee and this city out of the hand of the king of Assyria; and I will defend this city for mine own sake, and for my servant David’s sake.

by giving his people, favor with men, to give you the resources needed to do HIS work.  Just like he did with the children of Israel, when they  took spoil from the Egyptians.  These are the people who enslaved them for hundreds of years, treated them like nothing.  But by the time GOD was done with them, (the Egyptians) they gave them anything.  Exodus 12:36 (KJV) ³⁶ And the Lord gave the people favour in the sight of the Egyptians, so that they lent unto them such things as they required. And they spoiled the Egyptians.

Another example is in the book of Ezra.  GOD moved on the king of Persia, that he would build GOD a house in Jerusalem.  To accomplish this Cyprus gave the Jews the financial means to build this house.  Ezra 1:1-11 (KJV) 1 Now in the first year of Cyrus king of Persia, that the word of the Lord by the mouth of Jeremiah might be fulfilled, the Lord stirred up the spirit of Cyrus king of Persia, that he made a proclamation throughout all his kingdom, and put it also in writing, saying, ² Thus saith Cyrus king of Persia, The Lord God of heaven hath given me all the kingdoms of the earth; and he hath charged me to build him an house at Jerusalem, which is in Judah. ³ Who is there among you of all his people? his God be with him, and let him go up to Jerusalem, which is in Judah, and build the house of the Lord God of Israel, (he is the God,) which is in Jerusalem. ⁴ And whosoever remaineth in any place where he sojourneth, let the men of his place help him with silver, and with gold, and with goods, and with beasts, beside the freewill offering for the house of God that is in Jerusalem. ⁵ Then rose up the chief of the fathers of Judah and Benjamin, and the priests, and the Levites, with all them whose spirit God had raised, to go up to build the house of the Lord which is in Jerusalem. ⁶ And all they that were about them strengthened their hands with vessels of silver, with gold, with goods, and with beasts, and with precious things, beside all that was willingly offered. ⁷ Also Cyrus the king brought forth the vessels of the house of the Lord, which Nebuchadnezzar had brought forth out of Jerusalem, and had put them in the house of his gods; ⁸ Even those did Cyrus king of Persia bring forth by the hand of Mithredath the treasurer, and numbered them unto Sheshbazzar, the prince of Judah. ⁹ And this is the number of them: thirty chargers of gold, a thousand chargers of silver, nine and twenty knives, ¹⁰ Thirty basons of gold, silver basons of a second sort four hundred and ten, and other vessels a thousand.  ¹¹ All the vessels of gold and of silver were five thousand and four hundred. All these did Sheshbazzar bring up with them of the captivity that were brought up from Babylon unto Jerusalem. In my life and ministry, I know of times that when I was writing, publishing, and mailing Gospel Tracts, GOD moved on different individuals to give me the financial means to continue the work.

by going before us:  In the book of Exodus, when the children of Israel came out of Egypt, GOD went before them as a pillar of cloud in the daytime and a pillar of fire at night.  He was preparing the way before them.  Can you imagine the fear that came upon people who did not know this GOD?  Exodus 13:21  (KJV) ²¹ And the Lord went before them by day in a pillar of a cloud, to lead them the way; and by night in a pillar of fire, to give them light; to go by day and night:  When my (ex) husband and I was led of the LORD to move to Montana, I believe GOD prepared the way before us.  When we came to the town of Lewistown, we were immediately accepted.  Which from what we had heard from others, that were on the mission field, in Montana, was very unusual.  We were helped to get a house, and trusted with that house, even tho’ we were from out-of-state, and these people didn’t know us from Adam’s house cat.  They continued to trust us until we could get our finances together, to buy it….. Now as I say that, the devil did fight us.  The check we put for a down payment, bounced….. of all things, to happen when you are trying to establish your witness.  The people from our bank in NC, called to tell them that the check was good.  The bank was the one that messed up.  Which in itself is unheard of, a bank confessing to being wrong.

when HE forgives us of our iniquities and transgressions:  Exodus 34:7 (KJV) Keeping mercy for thousands, forgiving iniquity and transgression and sin, and that will by no means clear the guilty; visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children, and upon the children’s children, unto the third and to the fourth generation. Numbers 14:18 (KJV) ¹⁸ The Lord is longsuffering, and of great mercy, forgiving iniquity and transgression, and by no means clearing the guilty, visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children unto the third and fourth generation.  Proverbs 16:6 (KJV) ⁶ By mercy and truth iniquity is purged: and by the fear of the Lord men depart from evil.

after chastisement….. Isaiah 49:13 (KJV) ¹³ Sing, O heavens; and be joyful, O earth; and break forth into singing, O mountains: for the Lord hath comforted his people, and will have mercy upon his afflicted.   will be extended at repentance…..Isaiah 55:7 (KJV) ⁷ Let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts: and let him return unto the Lord, and he will have mercy upon him; and to our God, for he will abundantly pardon.  HE will restore you as if nothing ever happened!!!  Zechariah 10:6 (KJV) ⁶ And I will strengthen the house of Judah, and I will save the house of Joseph, and I will bring them again to place them; for I have mercy upon them: and they shall be as though I had not cast them off: for I am the Lord their God, and will hear them.

because HE loves us:  Deuteronomy 5:10 (KJV) ¹⁰ And shewing mercy unto thousands of them that love me and keep my commandments.  Exodus 20:6 (KJV) ⁶ And shewing mercy unto thousands of them that love me, and keep my commandments.  and it will endure forever:  I Chronicles 16:34 (KJV) ³⁴ O give thanks unto the Lord; for he is good; for his mercy endureth for ever.

Nehemiah 1:5 (KJV) ⁵ And said, I beseech thee, O Lord God of heaven, the great and terrible God, that keepeth covenant and mercy for them that love him and observe his commandments:

to those who love HIM….  II Chronicles  6:14 (KJV) ¹⁴ And said, O Lord God of Israel, there is no God like thee in the heaven, nor in the earth; which keepest covenant, and shewest mercy unto thy servants, that walk before thee with all their hearts: trust HIM…. Psalm 32:10 (KJV)¹⁰ Many sorrows shall be to the wicked: but he that trusteth in the Lord, mercy shall compass him about.  fear HIM…. Psalm 33:18 (KJV)¹⁸ Behold, the eye of the Lord is upon them that fear him, upon them that hope in his mercy; and those who hope in HIM….Psalm 33:22 (KJV) O Lord, be upon us, according as we hope in thee.

• in weakness….Psalm 6:2 (KJV) ² Have mercy upon me, O Lord; for I am weak: O Lord, heal me; for my bones are vexed.
• in distress…. Psalm 4:1 (KJV) Hear me when I call, O God of my righteousness: thou hast enlarged me when I was in distress; have mercy upon me, and hear my prayer.
• desolation, when HE hears our cry… Psalm 25:16 (KJV)¹⁶ Turn thee unto me, and have mercy upon me; for I am desolate and afflicted.
• in affliction,……Isaiah 49:13 (KJV) ¹³ Sing, O heavens; and be joyful, O earth; and break forth into singing, O mountains: for the Lord hath comforted his people, and will have mercy upon his afflicted.
•  in trouble…… Psalm 9:13 (KJV)  Have mercy upon me, O Lord; consider my trouble which I suffer of them that hate me, thou that liftest me up from the gates of death:
• in grief….. Psalm 31:9 (KJV) ⁹ Have mercy upon me, O Lord, for I am in trouble: mine eye is consumed with grief, yea, my soul and my belly.
• when it looks like the enemy is going to win…..Psalm 57:3 (KJV) ³ He shall send from heaven, and save me from the reproach of him that would swallow me up. Selah. God shall send forth his mercy and his truth.

HIS MERCY….. 

is GREAT!!!…. Psalm 119:156 (KJV) ¹⁵⁶ Great are thy tender mercies, O Lord: quicken me according to thy judgments.

is HIS path…. Psalm 25:10 (KJV) ¹⁰ All the paths of the Lord are mercy and truth unto such as keep his covenant and his testimonies.

a preserver…. Psalm 61:7 (KJV) ⁷ He shall abide before God for ever: O prepare mercy and truth, which may preserve him.

rendered according to work….. Psalm 62:12 (KJV) ¹² Also unto thee, O Lord, belongeth mercy: for thou renderest to every man according to his work.

is there for the calling…. Psalm 86:5 (KJV) ⁵ For thou, Lord, art good, and ready to forgive; and plenteous in mercy unto all them that call upon thee.

is before HIS face…. Psalm 89:14 (KJV) ¹⁴ Justice and judgment are the habitation of thy throne: mercy and truth shall go before thy face.

prevents us from fighting our own battles…. Psalm 59:10 (KJV)¹⁰ The God of my mercy shall prevent me: God shall let me see my desire upon mine enemies.

and finally, HE gives mercy even to those who don’t believe…. Romans 11:30-32 (KJV) ³⁰ For as ye in times past have not believed God, yet have now obtained mercy through their unbelief: ³¹ Even so have these also now not believed, that through your mercy they also may obtain mercy. ³² For God hath concluded them all in unbelief, that he might have mercy upon all.   I Timothy 1:13 (KJV) ¹³ Who was before a blasphemer, and a persecutor, and injurious: but I obtained mercy, because I did it ignorantly in unbelief.

WOW!!!  Now that is MERCY!!!

 

GREAT is THY Faithfulness!!! (Part 1 of Series)

♪Great is Thy faithfulness, O God my Father;
There is no shadow of turning with Thee;
Thou changest not, Thy compassions, they fail not;
As Thou hast been, Thou forever will be.♪

Refrain
♪Great is Thy faithfulness!
Great is Thy faithfulness!
Morning by morning new mercies I see.
All I have needed Thy hand hath provided;
Great is Thy faithfulness, Lord, unto me!♪

♪Summer and winter and springtime and harvest,
Sun, moon and stars in their courses above
Join with all nature in manifold witness
To Thy great faithfulness, mercy and love.♪

Refrain
♪Great is Thy faithfulness!
Great is Thy faithfulness!
Morning by morning new mercies I see.
All I have needed Thy hand hath provided;
Great is Thy faithfulness, Lord, unto me!♪

♪Pardon for sin and a peace that endureth
Thine own dear presence to cheer and to guide;
Strength for today and bright hope for tomorrow,
Blessings all mine, with ten thousand beside!♪

Refrain
♪Great is Thy faithfulness!
Great is Thy faithfulness!
Morning by morning new mercies I see.
All I have needed Thy hand hath provided;
Great is Thy faithfulness, Lord, unto me!♪

Scripture:   Psalm 89:1-2 (KJV)  I will sing of the mercies of the Lord for ever: with my mouth will I make known thy faithfulness to all generations.  ² For I have said, Mercy shall be built up for ever: thy faithfulness shalt thou establish in the very heavens.

Faithfulness is part of GOD’s Character:  Isaiah 49:7 (KJV) ⁷ Thus saith the Lord, the Redeemer of Israel, and his Holy One, to him whom man despiseth, to him whom the nation abhorreth, to a servant of rulers, Kings shall see and arise, princes also shall worship, because of the Lord that is faithful, and the Holy One of Israel, and he shall choose thee. I Corinthians 1:9 (KJV) ⁹ God is faithful, by whom ye were called unto the fellowship of his Son Jesus Christ our Lord.  I Thessalonians 5:24 (KJV) ²⁴ Faithful is he that calleth you, who also will do it.

Nothing can compare to HIS Faithfulness:  Psalm 89:8 (KJV) ⁸ O Lord God of hosts, who is a strong Lord like unto thee? or to thy faithfulness round about thee?

It is……

• UNFAILING!:  Psalm 89:33 (KJV) ³³ Nevertheless my lovingkindness will I not utterly take from him, nor suffer my faithfulness to fail.  II Timothy 2:13 (KJV) ¹³ If we believe not, yet he abideth faithful: he cannot deny himself.
• EVERLASTING!:  Psalm 119:90 (KJV) ⁹⁰ Thy faithfulness is unto all generations: thou hast established the earth, and it abideth.
• ESTABLISHED!:  Psalm 89:2 (KJV) ² For I have said, Mercy shall be built up for ever: thy faithfulness shalt thou establish in the very heavens.
• INFINITE!:  Psalm 36:5 (KJV) ⁵ Thy mercy, O Lord, is in the heavens; and thy faithfulness reacheth unto the clouds.

HIS Faithfulness is shown in……

• HIS Counsel:  Isaiah 25:1 (KJV) 25 O Lord, thou art my God; I will exalt thee, I will praise thy name; for thou hast done wonderful things; thy counsels of old are faithfulness and truth.
• Affliction of HIS Saints:  Psalm 119:75 (KJV) ⁷⁵ I know, O Lord, that thy judgments are right, and that thou in faithfulness hast afflicted me.
• Fulfillment of HIS Promises:  I Kings 8:20 (KJV) ²⁰ And the Lord hath performed his word that he spake, and I am risen up in the room of David my father, and sit on the throne of Israel, as the Lord promised, and have built an house for the name of the Lord God of Israel.  Psalm 132:11 (KJV) ¹¹ The Lord hath sworn in truth unto David; he will not turn from it; Of the fruit of thy body will I set upon thy throne.  Micah 7:20 (KJV) ²⁰ Thou wilt perform the truth to Jacob, and the mercy to Abraham, which thou hast sworn unto our fathers from the days of old.  Hebrews 10:23 (KJV) ²³ Let us hold fast the profession of our faith without wavering; (for he is faithful that promised;)
• The Keeping of HIS Covenant:  Deuteronomy 7:9 (KJV) ⁹ Know therefore that the Lord thy God, he is God, the faithful God, which keepeth covenant and mercy with them that love him and keep his commandments to a thousand generations;  Psalm 111:5 (KJV) ⁵ He hath given meat unto them that fear him: he will ever be mindful of his covenant.
• HIS Forgiveness of our SINS!:  1 John 1:9 (KJV)⁹ If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.

The Characteristics of a True Christian con’t (Part 4)

According to the Authorized King

James Version Bible:

• Feels Guilt and the Need for Repentance: 

 If we assay to commune with thee, wilt thou be grieved? but who can withhold himself from speaking?  Job 4:2 (KJV)

10 And David’s heart smote him after that he had numbered the people. And David said unto the Lord, I have sinned greatly in that I have done: and now, I beseech thee, O Lord, take away the iniquity of thy servant; for I have done very foolishly. 2 Sam 24:10 (KJV)

3 Unto a land flowing with milk and honey: for I will not go up in the midst of thee; for thou art a stiffnecked people: lest I consume thee in the way.  4 And when the people heard these evil tidings, they mourned: and no man did put on him his ornaments. Ex 33:3-4 (KJV)

13 And the publican, standing afar off, would not lift up so much as his eyes unto heaven, but smote upon his breast, saying, God be merciful to me a sinner.  14 I tell you, this man went down to his house justified rather than the other: for every one that exalteth himself shall be abased; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted.  Luke 18:13-14 (KJV)

And many that believed came, and confessed, and shewed their deeds.  Acts 19:18 (KJV)

37 And, behold, a woman in the city, which was a sinner, when she knew that Jesus sat at meat in the Pharisee’s house, brought an alabaster box of ointment, 38 And stood at his feet behind him weeping, and began to wash his feet with tears, and did wipe them with the hairs of her head, and kissed his feet, and anointed them with the ointment. 39 Now when the Pharisee which had bidden him saw it, he spake within himself, saying, This man, if he were a prophet, would have known who and what manner of woman this is that toucheth him: for she is a sinner. 40 And Jesus answering said unto him, Simon, I have somewhat to say unto thee. And he saith, Master, say on. 41 There was a certain creditor which had two debtors: the one owed five hundred pence, and the other fifty. 42 And when they had nothing to pay, he frankly forgave them both. Tell me therefore, which of them will love him most? 43 Simon answered and said, I suppose that he, to whom he forgave most. And he said unto him, Thou hast rightly judged. 44 And he turned to the woman, and said unto Simon, Seest thou this woman? I entered into thine house, thou gavest me no water for my feet: but she hath washed my feet with tears, and wiped them with the hairs of her head. 45 Thou gavest me no kiss: but this woman since the time I came in hath not ceased to kiss my feet. 46 My head with oil thou didst not anoint: but this woman hath anointed my feet with ointment. 47 Wherefore I say unto thee, Her sins, which are many, are forgiven; for she loved much: but to whom little is forgiven, the same loveth little. 48 And he said unto her, Thy sins are forgiven. Luke 7:37-48 (KJV)

17 And when he came to himself, he said, How many hired servants of my father’s have bread enough and to spare, and I perish with hunger! 18 I will arise and go to my father, and will say unto him, Father, I have sinned against heaven, and before thee, 19 And am no more worthy to be called thy son: make me as one of thy hired servants. 20 And he arose, and came to his father. But when he was yet a great way off, his father saw him, and had compassion, and ran, and fell on his neck, and kissed him. 21 And the son said unto him, Father, I have sinned against heaven, and in thy sight, and am no more worthy to be called thy son. Luke 15:17-21 (KJV)

I said, Lord, be merciful unto me: heal my soul; for I have sinned against thee. Psalms 41:4 (KJV)

12 For innumerable evils have compassed me about: mine iniquities have taken hold upon me, so that I am not able to look up; they are more than the hairs of mine head: therefore my heart faileth me. Psalms 40:12 (KJV)

1 Have mercy upon me, O God, according to thy lovingkindness: according unto the multitude of thy tender mercies blot out my transgressions. 2 Wash me throughly from mine iniquity, and cleanse me from my sin. 3 For I acknowledge my transgressions: and my sin is ever before me. 4 Against thee, thee only, have I sinned, and done this evil in thy sight: that thou mightest be justified when thou speakest, and be clear when thou judgest. Psalms 51:1-4 (KJV)

 O God, thou knowest my foolishness; and my sins are not hid from thee.  Psalms 69:5 (KJV)

When I wept, and chastened my soul with fasting, that was to my reproach.  Psalms 69:10 (KJV)

30 And David went up by the ascent of mount Olivet, and wept as he went up, and had his head covered, and he went barefoot: and all the people that was with him covered every man his head, and they went up, weeping as they went up.  2 Sam 15:30 (KJV)

• Has a love that is supernatural, called the Love of God:

• shown by for instance, feeding the hungry, giving drink to the thirsty, taking care of strangers, clothing the naked and visiting those in prison:

34 Then shall the King say unto them on his right hand, Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world: 35 For I was an hungred, and ye gave me meat: I was thirsty, and ye gave me drink: I was a stranger, and ye took me in: 36 Naked, and ye clothed me: I was sick, and ye visited me: I was in prison, and ye came unto me. 37 Then shall the righteous answer him, saying, Lord, when saw we thee an hungred, and fed thee? or thirsty, and gave thee drink? 38  When saw we thee a stranger, and took thee in? or naked, and clothed thee? 39  Or when saw we thee sick, or in prison, and came unto thee? 40 And the King shall answer and say unto them, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me.  Matt 25:34-40 (KJV)

• Another example….. going after those that are astray….

14 And when Abram heard that his brother was taken captive, he armed his trained servants, born in his own house, three hundred and eighteen, and pursued them unto Dan. 15 And he divided himself against them, he and his servants, by night, and smote them, and pursued them unto Hobah, which ison the left hand of Damascus. 16 And he brought back all the goods, and also brought again his brother Lot, and his goods, and the women also, and the people.  Gen 14:13-16 (KJV)

• Another example of helping a stranger……

And it came to pass, when David was come to Mahanaim, that Shobi the son of Nahash of Rabbah of the children of Ammon, and Machir the son of Ammiel of Lodebar, and Barzillai the Gileadite of Rogelim, 28 Brought beds, and basons, and earthen vessels, and wheat, and barley, and flour, and parched corn, and beans, and lentiles, and parched pulse, 29 And honey, and butter, and sheep, and cheese of kine, for David, and for the people that were with him, to eat: for they said, The people is hungry, and weary, and thirsty, in the wilderness.  2 Sam 17:27-29 (KJV)

• Another example…… Protecting the innocent…..

4 For it was so, when Jezebel cut off the prophets of the Lord, that Obadiah took an hundred prophets, and hid them by fifty in a cave, and fed them with bread and water.) 5 And Ahab said unto Obadiah, Go into the land, unto all fountains of water, and unto all brooks: peradventure we may find grass to save the horses and mules alive, that we lose not all the beasts.  1 Kings 18:4-5 (KJV)

11 But Jehoshabeath, the daughter of the king, took Joash the son of Ahaziah, and stole him from among the king’s sons that were slain, and put him and his nurse in a bedchamber. So Jehoshabeath, the daughter of king Jehoram, the wife of Jehoiada the priest, (for she was the sister of Ahaziah,) hid him from Athaliah, so that she slew him not.  2 Chron 22:11 (KJV

• Helping those that are down…..

11 Then came there unto him all his brethren, and all his sisters, and all they that had been of his acquaintance before, and did eat bread with him in his house: and they bemoaned him, and comforted him over all the evil that the Lord had brought upon him: every man also gave him a piece of money, and every one an earring of gold.  Job 42:11 (KJV)

• Sticking with the brethren…..

16 And Ruth said, Intreat me not to leave thee, or to return from following after thee: for whither thou goest, I will go; and where thou lodgest, I will lodge: thy people shall be my people, and thy God my God: 17 Where thou diest, will I die, and there will I be buried: the Lord do so to me, and more also, if oughtbut death part thee and me. 18 When she saw that she was stedfastly minded to go with her, then she left speaking unto her.  Ruth 1:16-18 (KJV)

• Meek and lowly, no proud or haughty: 

19 Better it is to be of an humble spirit with the lowly, than to divide the spoil with the proud.  Prov 16:19 (KJV)

19 The meek also shall increase their joy in the Lord, and the poor among men shall rejoice in the Holy One of Israel.  Isaiah 29:19 (KJV)

• Examples of David…..

11 And David said to Abishai, and to all his servants, Behold, my son, which came forth of my bowels, seeketh my life: how much more now may this Benjamite do it? let him alone, and let him curse; for the Lord hath bidden him.  2 Sam 16:11 (KJV)

• and Jeremiah……

14 As for me, behold, I am in your hand: do with me as seemeth good and meet unto you. Jer 26:14 (KJV)

(More on the Characteristics of a True Christian next week…….)

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• The Characteristics of a True Christian (Part 2) (scripturalthoughts.wordpress.com)
• The Characteristics of a True Christian con’t (Part 3) (scripturalthoughts.wordpress.com)

The Characteristics of a True Christian con’t (Part 3)

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According to the

Authorized King James Version Bible:

• Servanthood to CHRIST, according to HIS example, to increase HIS kingdom:

50 For whosoever shall do the will of my Father which is in heaven, the same is my brother, and sister, and mother. Matt 12:50 (KJV)

32 Jesus answered them, Many good works have I shewed you from my Father; for which of those works do ye stone me? John 10:32 (KJV)

10 But (which becometh women professing godliness) with good works. 1 Tim 2:10 (KJV)

21 But he that doeth truth cometh to the light, that his deeds may be made manifest, that they are wrought in God. John 3:21 (KJV)

38 How God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Ghost and with power: who went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil; for God was with him. Acts 10:38 (KJV)

10 Well reported of for good works; if she have brought up children, if she have lodged strangers, if she have washed the saints’ feet, if she have relieved the afflicted, if she have diligently followed every good work. 1 Tim 5:10 (KJV)

34 Then shall the King say unto them on his right hand, Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world:  35 For I was an hungred, and ye gave me meat: I was thirsty, and ye gave me drink: I was a stranger, and ye took me in:  36 Naked, and ye clothed me: I was sick, and ye visited me: I was in prison, and ye came unto me.   37 Then shall the righteous answer him, saying, Lord, when saw we thee an hungred, and fed thee? or thirsty, and gave thee drink?  38  When saw we thee a stranger, and took thee in? or naked, and clothed thee?  39  Or when saw we thee sick, or in prison, and came unto thee? 40 And the King shall answer and say unto them, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done itunto me.  Matt 25:34-40 (KJV)

14 What doth it profit, my brethren, though a man say he hath faith, and have not works? can faith save him?  15 If a brother or sister be naked, and destitute of daily food, 16 And one of you say unto them, Depart in peace, be ye warmed and filled; notwithstanding ye give them not those things which are needful to the body; what doth it profit?  17 Even so faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone.  18 Yea, a man may say, Thou hast faith, and I have works: shew me thy faith without thy works, and I will shew thee my faith by my works.  19 Thou believest that there is one God; thou doest well: the devils also believe, and tremble. 20 But wilt thou know, O vain man, that faith without works is dead? James 2:14-20 (KJV)

8 Herein is my Father glorified, that ye bear much fruit; so shall ye be my disciples. John 15:8 (KJV)

14 Remember me, O my God, concerning this, and wipe not out my good deeds that I have done for the house of my God, and for the offices thereof. Neh 13:14 (KJV)

• which leads others to glorify the FATHER:

16 Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven. Matt 5:16 (KJV)

12 Having your conversation honest among the Gentiles: that, whereas they speak against you as evildoers, they may by yourgood works, which they shall behold, glorify God in the day of visitation.  1 Peter 2:12 (KJV)

• Just in dealings: 

9 These are the generations of Noah: Noah was a just man and perfect in his generations, and Noah walked with God.  Gen 6:9 (KJV)

4 Behold, his soul which is lifted up is not upright in him: but the just shall live by his faith.  Hab 2:4 (KJV)

25 And, behold, there was a man in Jerusalem, whose name was Simeon; and the same man was just and devout, waiting for the consolation of Israel: and the Holy Ghost was upon him.   Luke 2:25 (KJV)

(used in this context, Just means “acting or being in conformity with what is morally upright or good :” according to the Websters Dictionary)

• Led by the Spirit:

14 For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God.  Romans 8:14 (KJV)

• Is Attentive to HIS Voice:

3 To him the porter openeth; and the sheep hear his voice: and he calleth his own sheep by name, and leadeth them out. 4 And when he putteth forth his own sheep, he goeth before them, and the sheep follow him: for they know his voice.  John 10:3-4 (KJV)

• Gives Freely:

8 But the liberal deviseth liberal things; and by liberal things shall he stand. Isaiah 32:8 (KJV)

13 Whiles by the experiment of this ministration they glorify God for your professed subjection unto the gospel of Christ, and for your liberal distribution unto them, and unto all men;  2 Cor 9:13 (KJV)

(in this context liberal means: “3. giving and generous in temperament or behaviour”.  According to the World English Dictionary.)

(more on the Characteristics of a True Christian next week……..)

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• The Characteristics of a True Christian (Part 2) (scripturalthoughts.wordpress.com)

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The Characteristics of a True Christian (Part 2)

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According to the Authorized King James Version Bible:

• Keeping Commandments:

3 For this is the love of God, that we keep his commandments: and his commandments are not grievous. 1 John 5:3 (KJV)

3 And keep the charge of the Lord thy God, to walk in his ways, to keep his statutes, and his commandments, and his judgments, and his testimonies, as it is written in the law of Moses, that thou mayest prosper in all that thou doest, and whithersoever thou turnest thyself: 1 Kings 2:3 (KJV)

12 Concerning this house which thou art in building, if thou wilt walk in my statutes, and execute my judgments, and keep all my commandments to walk in them; then will I perform my word with thee, which I spake unto David thy father: 1 Kings 6:12 (KJV)

That he may incline our hearts unto him, to walk in all his ways, and to keep his commandments, and his statutes, and his judgments, which he commanded our fathers. 1 Kings 8:58 (KJV)

17 And he said unto him, Why callest thou me good? there is none good but one, that is, God: but if thou wilt enter into life, keep the commandments. Matt 19:17 (KJV)

12 Here is the patience of the saints: here arethey that keep the commandments of God, and the faith of Jesus. Rev 14:12 (KJV)

• Overcomers:

5 Who is he that overcometh the world, but he that believeth that Jesus is the Son of God? 1 John 5:5 (KJV)

• Growth in:

The knowledge of our Saviour:

18 But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.  To him beglory both now and for ever. Amen. 2 Peter 3:18 (KJV)

Fruitfulness:

 Now he that ministereth seed to the sower both minister bread for your food, and multiply your seed sown, and increase the fruits of your righteousness;) 2 Corinthians 9:10 (KJV)

Love:

And the Lord make you to increase and abound in love one toward another, and toward all men, even as we do toward you: 1 Thessalonians 3:12 (KJV)

But as touching brotherly love ye need not that I write unto you: for ye yourselves are taught of God to love one another. And indeed ye do it toward all the brethren which are in all Macedonia: but we beseech you, brethren, that ye increase more and more;  1 Thessalonians 4:9-10 (KJV)

Unto Prefection:

9 But, beloved, we are persuaded better things of you, and things that accompany salvation, though we thus speak. Heb 6:9 (KJV)

The Word:

As newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby:  1 Peter 2:2 (KJV)

Grace and Knowledge:

But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and for ever. Amen. 2 Peter 3:18 (KJV)

• Freedom in the Soul:

Then said Jesus to those Jews which believed on him, If ye continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed;  And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free. John 8:31-32 (KJV)

• A New Kind of Dress–The Robe of Righteousness:

I put on righteousness, and it clothed me: my judgment was as a robe and a diadem. Job 29:14 (KJV)

And he answered and spake unto those that stood before him, saying, Take away the filthy garments from him. And unto him he said, Behold, I have caused thine iniquity to pass from thee, and I will clothe thee with change of raiment. Zechariah 3:4 (KJV)

I will greatly rejoice in the LORD, my soul shall be joyful in my God; for he hath clothed me with the garments of salvation, he hath covered me with the robe of righteousness, as a bridegroom decketh himself with ornaments, and as a bride adorneth herself with her jewels. Isaiah 61:10 (KJV)

  And to her was granted that she should be arrayed in fine linen, clean and white: for the fine linen is the righteousness of saints. Revelation 19:8 (KJV)

• Your Light Will Shine:

Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven. Matthew 5:16 (KJV)

• Have a Spiritual Foundation:

Therefore whosoever heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man, which built his house upon a rock:  Matthew 7:24 (KJV)

7 Rooted and built up in him, and stablished in the faith, as ye have been taught, abounding therein with thanksgiving.   Colossians 2:7

22 That ye put off concerning the former conversation the old man, which is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts;  23 And  be renewed in the spirit of your mind; 24 And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness. 25 Wherefore putting away lying, speak every man truth with his neighbour: for we are members one of another.  26 Be ye angry, and sin not: let not the sun go down upon your wrath: 27 Neither give place to the devil.  28 Let him that stole steal no more: but rather let him labour, working with his hands the thing which is good, that he may have to give to him that needeth.  29 Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers. 30 And grieve not the holy Spirit of God, whereby ye are sealed unto the day of redemption. 31 Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamour, and evil speaking, be put away from you, with all malice: 32 And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ’s sake hath forgiven you. Ephesians 4:22-32 (KJV)

(More on the characteristics of a True Christian next week)

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The Characteristics of a True Christian (Part 1 of ?)

According to the Authorized King James Version Bible:

• A New Birth:

1 Peter 1:23 (KJV)  Being born again, not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, by the word of God, which liveth and abideth for ever.

John 3:5 (KJV) Jesus answered, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God.

Ezekiel 36:26 (KJV)  A new heart also will I give you, and a new spirit will I put within you: and I will take away the stony heart out of your flesh, and I will give you an heart of flesh.

2 Corinthians 5:17 (KJV)  Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.

James 1:18 (KJV) Of his own will begat he us with the word of truth, that we should be a kind of firstfruits of his creatures.

Titus 3:5 (KJV)  Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost;

• Marks of the new birth:  

Love: 

Ephesians 5:2 (KJV)  And walk in love, as Christ also hath loved us, and hath given himself for us an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweetsmelling savour.
1 John 4:16 (KJV)  And we have known and believed the love that God hath to us. God is love; and he that dwelleth in love dwelleth in God, and God in him.

Love for the Church: 

Ephesians 1:15 (KJV) Wherefore I also, after I heard of your faith in the Lord Jesus, and love unto all the saints,
Colossians 1:4 (KJV)  Since we heard of your faith in Christ Jesus, and of the love which ye have to all the saints,
1 Thessalonians 2:8 (KJV)  So being affectionately desirous of you, we were willing to have imparted unto you, not the gospel of God only, but also our own souls, because ye were dear unto us.

1 Peter 1:22 (KJV)  Seeing ye have purified your souls in obeying the truth through the Spirit unto unfeigned love of the brethren, see that ye love one another with a pure heart fervently:
1 Peter 2:17 (KJV)  Honour all men. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honour the king.

1 John 3:14 (KJV) ¹⁴We know that we have passed from death unto life, because we love the brethren. He that loveth not his brother abideth in death.

1 John 5:2 (KJV) By this we know that we love the children of God, when we love God, and keep his commandments.

Love for GOD: 

Psalm 18:1 (KJV) I will love thee, O LORD, my strength.

Psalm 42:1 (KJV)  As the hart panteth after the water brooks, so panteth my soul after thee, O God.

Psalm 73:25 (KJV) Whom have I in heaven but thee? and there is none upon earth that I desire beside thee.
Psalm 84:2 (KJV)  My soul longeth, yea, even fainteth for the courts of the LORD: my heart and my flesh crieth out for the living God.
Psalm 116:1 (KJV)  I love the LORD, because he hath heard my voice and my supplications.

Hebrews 6:10 (KJV)  For God is not unrighteous to forget your work and labour of love, which ye have shewed toward his name, in that ye have ministered to the saints, and do minister.

John 4:19 (KJV)  The woman saith unto him, Sir, I perceive that thou art a prophet.

Obedience to GOD: 

Whole heartness required:

Deuteronomy 26:16 (KJV) ¹⁶This day the LORD thy God hath commanded thee to do these statutes and judgments: thou shalt therefore keep and do them with all thine heart, and with all thy soul.

Deuteronomy 32:46 (KJV) ⁶And he said unto them, Set your hearts unto all the words which I testify among you this day, which ye shall command your children to observe to do, all the words of this law.

Is the Price for Success: 

Joshua 1:8 (KJV) ⁸This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou shalt meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein: for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success.

Better than Sacrifice:

1 Samuel 15:22 (KJV) And Samuel said, Hath the LORD as great delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices, as in obeying the voice of the LORD? Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice, and to hearken than the fat of rams.

Is a Duty in the Christian Life: 

Acts 5:29  (KJV) ²⁹Then Peter and the other apostles answered and said, We ought to obey God rather than men.

(More Scripture on the Characteristics of a True Christian next week……………………)