What is Faith?

  • Christian Chat is a moderated online Christian community allowing Christians around the world to fellowship with each other in real time chat via webcam, voice, and text, with the Christian Chat app. You can also start or participate in a Bible-based discussion here in the Christian Chat Forums, where members can also share with each other their own videos, pictures, or favorite Christian music.

    If you are a Christian and need encouragement and fellowship, we're here for you! If you are not a Christian but interested in knowing more about Jesus our Lord, you're also welcome! Want to know what the Bible says, and how you can apply it to your life? Join us!

    To make new Christian friends now around the world, click here to join Christian Chat.
P

pablocito

Guest
Yet the new birth is tangible and substantial even if it is unseen. What we experience inwardly is a foretaste of the heaven we are promised.
The new birth is tangible, intangible, it is everything.

Paul says this:

1Co 3:22 Whether Paul, or Apollos, or Cephas, or the world, or life, or death, or things present, or things to come; all are yours;

1Co 3:23 And ye are Christ's; and Christ is God's.

1Co_2:9 But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him.

Even though the bible states that eyes have not seen, nor ears heard, nor hath it entered into the minds of man what God hath prepared for him,

I can tell you that the truth shall set you free. It is so important to know the truth that Daniel said this:

Dan 12:10 Many shall be purified, and made white, and tried; but the wicked shall do wickedly: and none of the wicked shall understand; but the wise shall understand.

It is so important to know the truth, because it seems that the whole of Christendom is blinded from the truth. They have lost their way. In fact they were never on the right pathway having been caught up in traditions from the very start.

I cannot be presumptuous and make statements that are outlandish and that may not be true, but I see nothing but real horror for the servants of God in this world. (The exception are those whose names are written in the book of life from the foundation of the earth)

I would ask anyone who fears God and is truly sincere about the word of God to revisit the bible and lay it all down on the line that God would reveal to them the truth of his will for them (which actually is the will of God for all of his servants)
 

Inquisitor

Well-known member
Mar 17, 2022
2,507
767
113
The new birth is tangible, intangible, it is everything.

Paul says this:

1Co 3:22 Whether Paul, or Apollos, or Cephas, or the world, or life, or death, or things present, or things to come; all are yours;

1Co 3:23 And ye are Christ's; and Christ is God's.

1Co_2:9 But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him.

Even though the bible states that eyes have not seen, nor ears heard, nor hath it entered into the minds of man what God hath prepared for him,

I can tell you that the truth shall set you free. It is so important to know the truth that Daniel said this:

Dan 12:10 Many shall be purified, and made white, and tried; but the wicked shall do wickedly: and none of the wicked shall understand; but the wise shall understand.

It is so important to know the truth, because it seems that the whole of Christendom is blinded from the truth. They have lost their way. In fact they were never on the right pathway having been caught up in traditions from the very start.

I cannot be presumptuous and make statements that are outlandish and that may not be true, but I see nothing but real horror for the servants of God in this world. (The exception are those whose names are written in the book of life from the foundation of the earth)

I would ask anyone who fears God and is truly sincere about the word of God to revisit the bible and lay it all down on the line that God would reveal to them the truth of his will for them (which actually is the will of God for all of his servants)
Whenever I see a sentence like the one below. More than likely, a Christian sect from the nineteenth century is speaking.

"It is so important to know the truth, because it seems that the whole of Christendom is blinded from the truth."
 

Evmur

Well-known member
Feb 28, 2021
5,165
2,600
113
London
christianchat.com
The new birth is tangible, intangible, it is everything.

Paul says this:

1Co 3:22 Whether Paul, or Apollos, or Cephas, or the world, or life, or death, or things present, or things to come; all are yours;

1Co 3:23 And ye are Christ's; and Christ is God's.

1Co_2:9 But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him.

Even though the bible states that eyes have not seen, nor ears heard, nor hath it entered into the minds of man what God hath prepared for him,

I can tell you that the truth shall set you free. It is so important to know the truth that Daniel said this:

Dan 12:10 Many shall be purified, and made white, and tried; but the wicked shall do wickedly: and none of the wicked shall understand; but the wise shall understand.

It is so important to know the truth, because it seems that the whole of Christendom is blinded from the truth. They have lost their way. In fact they were never on the right pathway having been caught up in traditions from the very start.

I cannot be presumptuous and make statements that are outlandish and that may not be true, but I see nothing but real horror for the servants of God in this world. (The exception are those whose names are written in the book of life from the foundation of the earth)

I would ask anyone who fears God and is truly sincere about the word of God to revisit the bible and lay it all down on the line that God would reveal to them the truth of his will for them (which actually is the will of God for all of his servants)
1 Cor. 2v9-10
9. But as it is written eye hath not seen nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man the things which God hath prepared for them that love Him

10 ... but God hath revealed them unto us by His Spirit, for the Spirit searches all things, yea, the deep things of God.

I am not in the least pessimistic about Christ's church ... the rapture proves that God can do anything He likes with His church whenever He decides to. He does not rely on man's supposed freewill.
 
P

persistent

Guest
Remember strong meat is for maturity

“But strong meat belongeth to them that are of full age, even those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil.”
‭‭Hebrews‬ ‭5:14‬ ‭KJV‬

but babes also just digest milk and grow thereby until they are ready for strong meat

“as newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby:”
‭‭1 Peter‬ ‭2:2‬ ‭KJV‬‬

he puts it in those types of terms because we understand those terms we can think of how a baby isn’t able to eat steak and potatoes it would choke them and be a detriment. But also a ten year old can’t survive on the proteins and vitamins of only milk

Gods word has milk that produces babes and keeps them strong but then eventually he begins feeding us strong meat thereby our muscles of faith grow up and we start to stand by the faith given us
Hey friend Pilgrimshope, does any of the 28th chapter of Isaiah fit in to what you reference here. Seems that God was certainly admonishing the people and I think ?Paul? ( I know there is question of authorship ) in the letter to the Hebrews references this but does it have to do with faith and trust and belief or something else? Hope this doesn't sidetrack the faith "debate".
 
P

pablocito

Guest
Whenever I see a sentence like the one below. More than likely, a Christian sect from the nineteenth century is speaking.

"It is so important to know the truth, because it seems that the whole of Christendom is blinded from the truth."
Yes, many things are going to seem to many as their own hearts dictate to them.

But he who heareth God's words, will recognize them in an instant.

Most people think that the world is doing just fine, freedom in America, human rights accessible to all here and everything seems fine and dandy to them.

What seems right to me is my own testimony as I have said from the very start. I have fought to have all reject the teachings of any man and rely only on the Holy Spirit. I have even quoted scriptures like this often.

1Jn 2:27 But the anointing which ye have received of him abideth in you, and ye need not that any man teach you: but as the same anointing teacheth you of all things, and is truth, and is no lie, and even as it hath taught you, ye shall abide in him.

One of the first arguments on this site was my insistence that I am not here to teach anything as God did not sent me to teach anything and I am not a teacher. I only have a testimony and a light that must keep shining.

Peter says this:

1Pe_3:15 But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear:

Of course, you too have been given a witness or testimony and testify you will. But who do you testify of. I cannot judge you, for it is God and the word of God who will judge you.

This post is really not for you in particular but for all those who love God and the Lord Jesus Christ and who can discern the signs of time times.
 
P

pablocito

Guest
1 Cor. 2v9-10
9. But as it is written eye hath not seen nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man the things which God hath prepared for them that love Him

10 ... but God hath revealed them unto us by His Spirit, for the Spirit searches all things, yea, the deep things of God.

I am not in the least pessimistic about Christ's church ... the rapture proves that God can do anything He likes with His church whenever He decides to. He does not rely on man's supposed freewill.
When man is born again, there is nothing such as man's freewill, as Christ is in him leading him into his paths of righteousness.

In this world we know in part, but will see fully at the time of us putting off this our tabernacle and putting on the tabernacle of God.

John says this:

1Jn 3:2 Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is.
 

Pilgrimshope

Well-known member
Sep 2, 2020
13,139
5,273
113
Hey friend Pilgrimshope, does any of the 28th chapter of Isaiah fit in to what you reference here. Seems that God was certainly admonishing the people and I think ?Paul? ( I know there is question of authorship ) in the letter to the Hebrews references this but does it have to do with faith and trust and belief or something else? Hope this doesn't sidetrack the faith "debate".
hello brother

“does any of the 28th chapter of Isaiah fit in to what you reference here.”

Yea, and all the prophets from Samuel and those that follow after, as many as have spoken, have likewise foretold of these days.”
‭‭Acts‬ ‭3:24‬ ‭KJV‬‬

“and he shall send Jesus Christ, which before was preached unto you: whom the heaven must receive until the times of restitution of all things, which God hath spoken by the mouth of all his holy prophets since the world began.”
‭‭Acts‬ ‭3:20-21‬ ‭

they were always speaking of Christ but there’s a veil over the ot and to see they are talking of Christ you have to look from the gospel back at the prophets and also the law is the same Moses was also foretelling the coming of Christ and the gospel but he’s also giving the law of sin at the same time

some things they say regard the curse of the law and judgement it brings to the earth other things they say are offering the hope of a new covenant to see we have to accept the light and look back into it

“My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me? Why art thou so far from helping me, and from the words of my roaring? All they that see me laugh me to scorn: They shoot out the lip, they shake the head, saying, He trusted on the LORD that he would deliver him: Let him deliver him, seeing he delighted in him. For dogs have compassed me: The assembly of the wicked have inclosed me: They pierced my hands and my feet. I may tell all my bones: They look and stare upon me. They part my garments among them, And cast lots upon my vesture.”
‭‭Psalm‬ ‭22:1, 7-8, 16-18‬ ‭KJV‬‬

this makes jonsonce since David was never crucified but when you look from the light of the gospel you see that he’s talking about Jesus

“And when they were come unto a place called Golgotha, that is to say, a place of a skull, they gave him vinegar to drink mingled with gall: and when he had tasted thereof, he would not drink. And they crucified him, and parted his garments, casting lots: that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the prophet, They parted my garments among them, and upon my vesture did they cast lots.

And they that passed by reviled him, wagging their heads, Likewise also the chief priests mocking him, with the scribes and elders, said, He saved others; himself he cannot save. If he be the King of Israel, let him now come down from the cross, and we will believe him. He trusted in God; let him deliver him now, if he will have him: for he said, I am the Son of God.

And about the ninth hour Jesus cried with a loud voice, saying, Eli, Eli, lama sabachthani? that is to say, My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me?”
‭‭Matthew‬ ‭27:33-35, 38-39, 41-43, 46‬ ‭

all the prophets are the same they are a witness of the gospel beforehand but it’s hidden until you look from Jesus back at it and the epistles also are a witness of Jesus and the gospel afterwards everything in the e Bible is witnessing the truth and preeminence of Jesus Christ our Lord and the work he would do for us and the word he would give to us for salvation

Isaiah is probably the one who speaks the most about the New Testament and the prophets are of so much value inderrrwndknf how things die in order why things happened like they did why we needed Jesus to come save us the whole story is in the prophets and it’s revealed in the gospel and witnessed by the apostles and disciples in the New Testament

Jesus is the truth made bare and plain for all to know and everything in scripture testifies to him but who will hear and believe the gospel ?
 
P

persistent

Guest
hello brother

“does any of the 28th chapter of Isaiah fit in to what you reference here.”

Yea, and all the prophets from Samuel and those that follow after, as many as have spoken, have likewise foretold of these days.”
‭‭Acts‬ ‭3:24‬ ‭KJV‬‬

“and he shall send Jesus Christ, which before was preached unto you: whom the heaven must receive until the times of restitution of all things, which God hath spoken by the mouth of all his holy prophets since the world began.”
‭‭Acts‬ ‭3:20-21‬ ‭

they were always speaking of Christ but there’s a veil over the ot and to see they are talking of Christ you have to look from the gospel back at the prophets and also the law is the same Moses was also foretelling the coming of Christ and the gospel but he’s also giving the law of sin at the same time

some things they say regard the curse of the law and judgement it brings to the earth other things they say are offering the hope of a new covenant to see we have to accept the light and look back into it

“My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me? Why art thou so far from helping me, and from the words of my roaring? All they that see me laugh me to scorn: They shoot out the lip, they shake the head, saying, He trusted on the LORD that he would deliver him: Let him deliver him, seeing he delighted in him. For dogs have compassed me: The assembly of the wicked have inclosed me: They pierced my hands and my feet. I may tell all my bones: They look and stare upon me. They part my garments among them, And cast lots upon my vesture.”
‭‭Psalm‬ ‭22:1, 7-8, 16-18‬ ‭KJV‬‬

this makes jonsonce since David was never crucified but when you look from the light of the gospel you see that he’s talking about Jesus

“And when they were come unto a place called Golgotha, that is to say, a place of a skull, they gave him vinegar to drink mingled with gall: and when he had tasted thereof, he would not drink. And they crucified him, and parted his garments, casting lots: that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the prophet, They parted my garments among them, and upon my vesture did they cast lots.

And they that passed by reviled him, wagging their heads, Likewise also the chief priests mocking him, with the scribes and elders, said, He saved others; himself he cannot save. If he be the King of Israel, let him now come down from the cross, and we will believe him. He trusted in God; let him deliver him now, if he will have him: for he said, I am the Son of God.

And about the ninth hour Jesus cried with a loud voice, saying, Eli, Eli, lama sabachthani? that is to say, My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me?”
‭‭Matthew‬ ‭27:33-35, 38-39, 41-43, 46‬ ‭

all the prophets are the same they are a witness of the gospel beforehand but it’s hidden until you look from Jesus back at it and the epistles also are a witness of Jesus and the gospel afterwards everything in the e Bible is witnessing the truth and preeminence of Jesus Christ our Lord and the work he would do for us and the word he would give to us for salvation

Isaiah is probably the one who speaks the most about the New Testament and the prophets are of so much value inderrrwndknf how things die in order why things happened like they did why we needed Jesus to come save us the whole story is in the prophets and it’s revealed in the gospel and witnessed by the apostles and disciples in the New Testament

Jesus is the truth made bare and plain for all to know and everything in scripture testifies to him but who will hear and believe the gospel ?
I don't know if this is appropriate but I was listening to music on the music forum on this site and if you have the capability to listen to music I find this piece spectacular to say the least. I realize music is subjective but here is the link.
https://christianchat.com/christian-music-forum/planetshakers-beautiful-saviour.206923/
 

Pilgrimshope

Well-known member
Sep 2, 2020
13,139
5,273
113
P

pablocito

Guest
hello brother

“does any of the 28th chapter of Isaiah fit in to what you reference here.”

Yea, and all the prophets from Samuel and those that follow after, as many as have spoken, have likewise foretold of these days.”
‭‭Acts‬ ‭3:24‬ ‭KJV‬‬

“and he shall send Jesus Christ, which before was preached unto you: whom the heaven must receive until the times of restitution of all things, which God hath spoken by the mouth of all his holy prophets since the world began.”
‭‭Acts‬ ‭3:20-21‬ ‭

they were always speaking of Christ but there’s a veil over the ot and to see they are talking of Christ you have to look from the gospel back at the prophets and also the law is the same Moses was also foretelling the coming of Christ and the gospel but he’s also giving the law of sin at the same time

some things they say regard the curse of the law and judgement it brings to the earth other things they say are offering the hope of a new covenant to see we have to accept the light and look back into it

“My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me? Why art thou so far from helping me, and from the words of my roaring? All they that see me laugh me to scorn: They shoot out the lip, they shake the head, saying, He trusted on the LORD that he would deliver him: Let him deliver him, seeing he delighted in him. For dogs have compassed me: The assembly of the wicked have inclosed me: They pierced my hands and my feet. I may tell all my bones: They look and stare upon me. They part my garments among them, And cast lots upon my vesture.”
‭‭Psalm‬ ‭22:1, 7-8, 16-18‬ ‭KJV‬‬

this makes jonsonce since David was never crucified but when you look from the light of the gospel you see that he’s talking about Jesus

“And when they were come unto a place called Golgotha, that is to say, a place of a skull, they gave him vinegar to drink mingled with gall: and when he had tasted thereof, he would not drink. And they crucified him, and parted his garments, casting lots: that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the prophet, They parted my garments among them, and upon my vesture did they cast lots.

And they that passed by reviled him, wagging their heads, Likewise also the chief priests mocking him, with the scribes and elders, said, He saved others; himself he cannot save. If he be the King of Israel, let him now come down from the cross, and we will believe him. He trusted in God; let him deliver him now, if he will have him: for he said, I am the Son of God.

And about the ninth hour Jesus cried with a loud voice, saying, Eli, Eli, lama sabachthani? that is to say, My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me?”
‭‭Matthew‬ ‭27:33-35, 38-39, 41-43, 46‬ ‭

all the prophets are the same they are a witness of the gospel beforehand but it’s hidden until you look from Jesus back at it and the epistles also are a witness of Jesus and the gospel afterwards everything in the e Bible is witnessing the truth and preeminence of Jesus Christ our Lord and the work he would do for us and the word he would give to us for salvation

Isaiah is probably the one who speaks the most about the New Testament and the prophets are of so much value inderrrwndknf how things die in order why things happened like they did why we needed Jesus to come save us the whole story is in the prophets and it’s revealed in the gospel and witnessed by the apostles and disciples in the New Testament

Jesus is the truth made bare and plain for all to know and everything in scripture testifies to him but who will hear and believe the gospel ?

Everything was finished at the cross, in the 1st Century. The next time we see Jesus Christ he will be our redeemer and Judge to the world.

I agree that looking back from the gospels back into the Old Testament prophets and saints we see Jesus Christ declared in all their prophesy. (Paul said those things were hidden from the Jews of the old testament).

But I believe it is most important to understand Revelation and look back into the gospels and the old testament to see the book of Revelation open up in real time (like right now). Everything in Revelation is confirmed by the bible, looking backwards into the gospels and the Old Testament.

Revelation is really the key to understanding our existence here on this earth. (The why's and the how's)
In the 1st century, Revelation really meant, the revealing of Jesus Christ (the future return of Jesus Christ) and needs many Old Testament texts and also statements by Jesus Christ in the gospels to put his return for us in these last days in proper context in the book of Revelation.

If a person loves God and His Son, Jesus Christ, he will search the scriptures with all his heart mind and soul as if his very eternal destiny depended on it and God will reveal his will to them.
 
P

persistent

Guest
Everything was finished at the cross, in the 1st Century. The next time we see Jesus Christ he will be our redeemer and Judge to the world.

I agree that looking back from the gospels back into the Old Testament prophets and saints we see Jesus Christ declared in all their prophesy. (Paul said those things were hidden from the Jews of the old testament).

But I believe it is most important to understand Revelation and look back into the gospels and the old testament to see the book of Revelation open up in real time (like right now). Everything in Revelation is confirmed by the bible, looking backwards into the gospels and the Old Testament.

Revelation is really the key to understanding our existence here on this earth. (The why's and the how's)
In the 1st century, Revelation really meant, the revealing of Jesus Christ (the future return of Jesus Christ) and needs many Old Testament texts and also statements by Jesus Christ in the gospels to put his return for us in these last days in proper context in the book of Revelation.

If a person loves God and His Son, Jesus Christ, he will search the scriptures with all his heart mind and soul as if his very eternal destiny depended on it and God will reveal his will to them.
When you write here "Everything in Revelation is confirmed by the bible, looking backwards into the gospels and the Old Testament." Are you referring to the book of the Revelation of Jesus to John or revelation thru out the entire Bible?
 

Pilgrimshope

Well-known member
Sep 2, 2020
13,139
5,273
113
Everything was finished at the cross, in the 1st Century. The next time we see Jesus Christ he will be our redeemer and Judge to the world.

I agree that looking back from the gospels back into the Old Testament prophets and saints we see Jesus Christ declared in all their prophesy. (Paul said those things were hidden from the Jews of the old testament).

But I believe it is most important to understand Revelation and look back into the gospels and the old testament to see the book of Revelation open up in real time (like right now). Everything in Revelation is confirmed by the bible, looking backwards into the gospels and the Old Testament.

Revelation is really the key to understanding our existence here on this earth. (The why's and the how's)
In the 1st century, Revelation really meant, the revealing of Jesus Christ (the future return of Jesus Christ) and needs many Old Testament texts and also statements by Jesus Christ in the gospels to put his return for us in these last days in proper context in the book of Revelation.

If a person loves God and His Son, Jesus Christ, he will search the scriptures with all his heart mind and soul as if his very eternal destiny depended on it and God will reveal his will to them.
yeah I can see what your saying brother what I’m saying is the prophets are e foundation , the gospel is the home built upon it , and the epistles are witnessing this

revelation doesn’t stand alone is my opinion on the revelation of Jesus Christ you have to have heard the prophets and the gospel to make any sense of it is what I’m saying

so for instance when John said this

“And I will give power unto my two witnesses, and they shall prophesy a thousand two hundred and threescore days, clothed in sackcloth. These are the two olive trees, and the two candlesticks standing before the God of the earth.”
‭‭Revelation‬ ‭11:3-4‬ ‭KJV‬‬


there’s no explaination of it and also johns not seeing the olive trees he’s making a reference to what e prophet saw

“Then answered I, and said unto him, What are these two olive trees upon the right side of the candlestick and upon the left side thereof?

Then said he, These are the two anointed ones, that stand by the Lord of the whole earth.”
‭‭Zechariah‬ ‭4:11, 14‬ ‭KJV‬‬

the two witnesses johns talking about are identified in the prophets and gospel is what I’m saying John is actually referencing what zechariah saw in that part

they go together like a foundation with a house built on it revelation is like a summary of the whole Bible from beginning to end

so when you see this

“And she brought forth a man child, who was to rule all nations with a rod of iron: and her child was caught up unto God, and to his throne.”
‭‭Revelation‬ ‭12:5‬ ‭KJV‬‬

that’s this part of the story

“So then after the Lord had spoken unto them, he was received up into heaven, and sat on the right hand of God.”
‭‭Mark‬ ‭16:19‬ ‭

and it’s founded in the prophets

“Yet have I set my king upon my holy hill of Zion.( zion is in heaven the king sits on a throne )

I will declare the decree: the LORD hath said unto me, Thou art my Son; this day have I begotten thee. (At Jesus baptism it was declared from heaven )

Ask of me, and I shall give thee the heathen for thine inheritance, And the uttermost parts of the earth for thy possession. ( Jesus declared all creation was given to him after he rose Matthew 28:18)

Thou shalt break them with a rod of iron; Thou shalt dash them in pieces like a potter's vessel.

Be wise now therefore, O ye kings: Be instructed, ye judges of the earth. ( revelation 1:5-6)

Serve the LORD with fear, And rejoice with trembling. Kiss the Son, lest he be angry, and ye perish from the way, When his wrath is kindled but a little.

Blessed are all they that put their trust in him.”
‭‭Psalm‬ ‭2:6-12‬ ‭KJV‬‬

the prophets foretold , the gospel fulfilled and the rest is witnessing its truth I could actually go through revelation chapter by chapter and show you where in the prophets it is speaking and how it leads to the gospel and is revealed in revelation

I agree though revelation is really important to understanding the whole message and big picture in the Bible

to understand it we just look into the prophets , believe the gospel nd it’s going to fall right into place having that foundation of understanding like the lion of Judah

Judah is a lion's whelp: From the prey, my son, thou art gone up: He stooped down, he couched as a lion, And as an old lion; who shall rouse him up?

The sceptre shall not depart from Judah, Nor a lawgiver from between his feet, Until Shiloh come; And unto him shall the gathering of the people be.

Binding his foal unto the vine, And his ass's colt unto the choice vine; He washed his garments in wine, And his clothes in the blood of grapes:”
‭‭Genesis‬ ‭49:9-11‬ ‭KJV‬‬

“Wherefore art thou red in thine apparel, and thy garments like him that treadeth in the winefat? I have trodden the winepress alone; and of the people there was none with me: for I will tread them in mine anger, and trample them in my fury; and their blood shall be sprinkled upon my garments, and I will stain all my raiment. And I looked, and there was none to help; and I wondered that there was none to uphold: therefore mine own arm brought salvation unto me; and my fury, it upheld me. And I will tread down the people in mine anger, and make them drunk in my fury, and I will bring down their strength to the earth.”
‭‭Isaiah‬ ‭63:2-3, 5-6‬ ‭

When you get here all Of those types of things is what helps us understand what’s happening because the Bible has built a foundation on our mind so we understand what’s being shown

“And he was clothed with a vesture dipped in blood: and his name is called The Word of God. And out of his mouth goeth a sharp sword, that with it he should smite the nations: and he shall rule them with a rod of iron: and he treadeth the winepress of the fierceness and wrath of Almighty God.

And he hath on his vesture and on his thigh a name written, KING OF KINGS, AND Lord OF LORDS.”
‭‭Revelation‬ ‭19:13, 15-16‬ ‭KJV‬‬

I hope that makes sense
 
P

pablocito

Guest
yeah I can see what your saying brother what I’m saying is the prophets are e foundation , the gospel is the home built upon it , and the epistles are witnessing this
I believe that you are living solely in the Old Testament era, which is a mistake, because that was the job of the Apostles to declare the mysteries of the Old Testament era.
The Jews did not understand it, and were not meant not to understand it, because it was hidden from them. And thus we cannot go back to square one, where the Jews started in order to work your way from there (like they were trying to do). That would cause massive confusion, especially with the good news now revealed. Yes, we should understand the old testament as a teaching tool only, and as being fulfilled in the New Testament.

Eph_2:20 And are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone;

Eph_3:5 Which in other ages was not made known unto the sons of men, as it is now revealed unto his holy apostles and prophets by the Spirit;

The prophets mentioned int Ephesians 3:5 are not the prophets of the Old Testament but the prophets of the New Testament.

Eph_4:11 And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers;

Ephesians 4:11 has to be put into proper context as this verse does not apply to us today, but only to the time of the first century when Christ was building his church, and he said the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.

2Pe_3:2 That ye may be mindful of the words which were spoken before by the holy prophets, and of the commandment of us the apostles of the Lord and Saviour:

The words of the prophets of Old came true (yes, they were somewhat cryptic and were not understood by the Jews of Old for the most part, and not followed) but their words are only a confirmation of the prophecies of God coming true, and gives us the grace to understand the sovereignty and supremacy of God in all things. Their prophecy only looked forward to the 1st coming of Christ in the 1st century to save them.

But now that Christ has come, he has fulfilled the prophecies of the old testament prophets, and Christ himself said that a new commandment I bring unto you.

That is why Peter in 2nd Peter 3:2 only spoke about the words spoken by the prophets of Old. But now he speaks not about words but about the commandments of the apostles of the Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

The words of the Prophets were not given to us to obey, but were given to the Jews of Old to obey. The New Testament says this:

Mat_10:41 He that receiveth a prophet in the name of a prophet shall receive a prophet's reward; and he that receiveth a righteous man in the name of a righteous man shall receive a righteous man's reward.

We are not looking forward to any of those; we are looking forward to a reward from Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior, in a heavenly kingdom. (the kingdom of God).

The bible is very complex, and all that I have said above could introduce massive confusion into the minds of those searching for God, who know very little of the bible. That is the reason why I am reluctant to debate or get in vain conversations but would rather encourage those who are searching to keep on searching and not pay any attention whatsoever to what others are saying.

This was why Jesus scolded John, telling him to leave them alone, and Jesus said if they are not against me then they are for me.

Jesus said the same thing to Peter, scolding Peter when Peter wanted to know what Jesus had in mind for John. Jesus told him to mind his own business and not to worry about John, but only to follow Him, (Jesus).

My last point is a secular one. If a scientist builds a rocket to go to the moon and on the day of lift-off, he points his rocket 1 degree off from where he should have pointed it. On the earth here 1 degree is miniscule but when that rocket takes off, it probably will be millions of miles off from where the intended rocket was suppose to go. That is just a principle of science and mathematics.

Thus just introducing one small error into a project can crash the entire project. There is no such thing as almost in God's kingdom, it is either all or none or success or complete failure. In fact the chapter on Luke 16 properly interpreted tells us so. Also the bible throughout tell us "be ye perfect as your father in heaven is perfect", and also "Be holy".
 
P

pablocito

Guest
When you write here "Everything in Revelation is confirmed by the bible, looking backwards into the gospels and the Old Testament." Are you referring to the book of the Revelation of Jesus to John or revelation thru out the entire Bible?
I am talking about the book of Revelation. The Old Testament is a graphic teaching guide to us (symbolic but yet still true as you and I living on this planet). God did not use fictitious stories as a teaching aid but real live people and real live stories in the bible that teaches his truths in these last days with the coming of Jesus Christ.

The New Testament fills in the gaps that were not understood in the Old Testament, but also brings a completely new understanding of God's purpose and intention from the beginning of the creation of the earth until the end of all time.

The bible really is a living book, it contains the mind and words of God that are life eternal, not theoretically but in every way practically and otherwise.

God fulfills all our needs in every way and because we are made in his image and likeness, he supplies all the resources we need in order for us to understand the bible. Therefore when we talk about wisdom, we are also talking about intellectual needs that are a part of us all, and God provides for all those too, but with one caveat, the foundation of humility and total obedience to him.

Wisdom without God is like a cart without a horse. Maybe the cart could be used as a storage facility, still useful yes but not what God intended.

Or again a car without an engine. Yes, you could hook up a horse to that car and pull it around the place, but it's original intention is defeated, even though it seems to work in a limited sense.

Lastly I should say that the only way of accessing God's power and bringing it into your life is by obedience to the commandments and teachings of Jesus Christ without exception. Which actually means that you will have to operate outside of this world's domain, and as Peter says, "to live in the spirit according to God". This is impossible for the natural man to do, and almost impossible for the majority of God's servants (those who are searching for him) to do, especially when Jesus has already stated that "Many are called but few are chosen" and that "Many will seek to find the way but will be unable to do so".
 
P

persistent

Guest
I am talking about the book of Revelation. The Old Testament is a graphic teaching guide to us (symbolic but yet still true as you and I living on this planet). God did not use fictitious stories as a teaching aid but real live people and real live stories in the bible that teaches his truths in these last days with the coming of Jesus Christ.

The New Testament fills in the gaps that were not understood in the Old Testament, but also brings a completely new understanding of God's purpose and intention from the beginning of the creation of the earth until the end of all time.

The bible really is a living book, it contains the mind and words of God that are life eternal, not theoretically but in every way practically and otherwise.

God fulfills all our needs in every way and because we are made in his image and likeness, he supplies all the resources we need in order for us to understand the bible. Therefore when we talk about wisdom, we are also talking about intellectual needs that are a part of us all, and God provides for all those too, but with one caveat, the foundation of humility and total obedience to him.

Wisdom without God is like a cart without a horse. Maybe the cart could be used as a storage facility, still useful yes but not what God intended.

Or again a car without an engine. Yes, you could hook up a horse to that car and pull it around the place, but it's original intention is defeated, even though it seems to work in a limited sense.

Lastly I should say that the only way of accessing God's power and bringing it into your life is by obedience to the commandments and teachings of Jesus Christ without exception. Which actually means that you will have to operate outside of this world's domain, and as Peter says, "to live in the spirit according to God". This is impossible for the natural man to do, and almost impossible for the majority of God's servants (those who are searching for him) to do, especially when Jesus has already stated that "Many are called but few are chosen" and that "Many will seek to find the way but will be unable to do so".
I like the cart without a horse analogy brother. I pretty much wasted most of my life with 'riotous living', but this morning when I woke, my first thought, was about Charles Spurgeon and what seems to me must have been a life dedicated to God. Later I started reading Psalm 80 and at verse 8 I get distracted, which always happens it seems, with reading strait thru because I see the word vine there .....8 Thou hast brought a vine out of Egypt: thou hast cast out the heathen, and planted it.......so I have to read some commentaries to satisfy my wanting to know if this is talking about Jesus since I recall that Jesus refers to Himself as the vine elsewhere. Here is a portion of Gill's commentary..........
So saints are planted not only in Christ, the true vine, of which they are branches; but in a Gospel church state, where they flourish and become fruitful and pleasant plants, plants of renown; and being of the Lord's planting, he is glorified by them, and they shall never be rooted up, nor wither, but prosper and thrive;.................And then I, still distracted, wonder could some of this Psalm also be prophecy for even a time when Jesus returns to rule as King of Kings? Also looking at other Psalms of Asaph I have the same question.
 
P

pablocito

Guest
Yea, and all the prophets from Samuel and those that follow after, as many as have spoken, have likewise foretold of these days.”
‭‭Acts‬ ‭3:24‬ ‭KJV‬‬
If you read Acts 3:22-26, you will notice that Moses said that Jesus was sent as a prophet to the Jews of the 1st covenant. (Jesus many times asked his disciples who do the people say that I am. He hid his real identity of Son of God from them.)

But we are not of the 1st Covenant but of the 2nd Covenant, and we were not given a prophet but rather the Son of God, Jesus Christ. (John 3:16)

To be more precise, we were given the bible, the word of God (John 1:1) which is the complete word of God, nothing absolutely missing.
And we are told to search it, for in it, is life and Jesus Christ also says that you will find him within it's pages. We really have more information than prophets or angels or any of God's other creatures. We have the completed, unretractable word of God, with nothing more to be added or nothing to be taken away from it. It is all finished. Jesus said this on the cross in the gospel of John.

Now we are waiting for a day of vengeance (wrath) where God will come to end the world and take his elect servants into glory with him.

End of story.
 

Pilgrimshope

Well-known member
Sep 2, 2020
13,139
5,273
113
If you read Acts 3:22-26, you will notice that Moses said that Jesus was sent as a prophet to the Jews of the 1st covenant. (Jesus many times asked his disciples who do the people say that I am. He hid his real identity of Son of God from them.)

But we are not of the 1st Covenant but of the 2nd Covenant, and we were not given a prophet but rather the Son of God, Jesus Christ. (John 3:16)

To be more precise, we were given the bible, the word of God (John 1:1) which is the complete word of God, nothing absolutely missing.
And we are told to search it, for in it, is life and Jesus Christ also says that you will find him within it's pages. We really have more information than prophets or angels or any of God's other creatures. We have the completed, unretractable word of God, with nothing more to be added or nothing to be taken away from it. It is all finished. Jesus said this on the cross in the gospel of John.

Now we are waiting for a day of vengeance (wrath) where God will come to end the world and take his elect servants into glory with him.

End of story.
“If you read Acts 3:22-26, you will notice that Moses said that Jesus was sent as a prophet to the Jews of the 1st covenant.”

you mean he came to them first ? But is for all who God calls

“Now when they heard this, they were pricked in their heart, and said unto Peter and to the rest of the apostles, Men and brethren, what shall we do? Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost.

For the promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as the Lord our God shall call.

And with many other words did he testify and exhort, saying, Save yourselves from this untoward generation. Then they that gladly received his word were baptized: and the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls.”
‭‭Acts‬ ‭2:37-41‬ ‭KJV‬‬

that’s consistent with the entire Bible it’s not that Jesus was only sent to Jews it’s that he was sent to only Jews first , then they rejected him but a remnant had believed then three were sent out with the exact same gospel to all nations.

watch how this unfolds

The beginning of the gospel of Jesus Christ, the Son of God; Now after that John was put in prison, Jesus came into Galilee, preaching the gospel of the kingdom of God, and saying, The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand: repent ye, and believe the gospel.”
‭‭Mark‬ ‭1:1, 14-15‬ ‭

“These twelve Jesus sent forth, and commanded them, saying, Go not into the way of the Gentiles, and into any city of the Samaritans enter ye not: but go rather to the lost sheep of the house of Israel.”
‭‭Matthew‬ ‭10:5-6‬ ‭KJV‬‬

So the gospel is forst preached exclusively to israel but then they reject him , accuse him of blasphemy and call for his death. A remnant had believed in him but the crowds cried “ crucify him crucify him we have no king but Caesar “

then you have the inclusion of the gentiles into the same message and promises he had made first to israel

Jesus began saying this before he died

“And this gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in all the world for a witness unto all nations; and then shall the end come.”
‭‭Matthew‬ ‭24:14‬ ‭KJV‬‬

And then after he died and rose the same exact gospel he had preached to those in Israel is sent out to all nations by the remnant of Israel who had believed him

“And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth.

Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen.”
‭‭Matthew‬ ‭28:18-20‬ ‭KJV‬‬

“And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature. He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved;

but he that believeth not shall be damned.”
‭‭Mark‬ ‭16:15-16‬ ‭

Jesus was always sent to all People he would come to israel first to but then would go out to all nations for salvation

all the apostles were doing was carrying out what God always said would happen

He was sent first to israel and then to the world the apostles were just carrying out the great commission “ go preach to the world everything I taught you and whoever believes will be saved “

As for Paul he was no dofferent he preached the gospel of the kingdom to Israelites and then to gentiles

“And when they( Jews ) had appointed him a day, there came many to him into his lodging; to whom he expounded and testified the kingdom of God, persuading them concerning Jesus, both out of the law of Moses, and out of the prophets, from morning till evening.

And some believed the things which were spoken, and some believed not.

( after Paul references the prophets calling the Israelites blind he says “ now it’s sent to the gentiles and they will hear it “


And Paul dwelt two whole years in his own hired house, and received all that came in unto him, preaching the kingdom of God, and teaching those things which concern the Lord Jesus Christ, with all confidence, no man forbidding him.
‭‭Acts‬ ‭28:23-24, 30-31‬ ‭KJV‬‬

Jesus is for everyone who’s willing to stop rejecting his word whether they used to be Jew or gentile it was always the plan from Abraham’s promise of the gospel

“And the scripture, foreseeing that God would justify the heathen through faith, preached before the gospel unto Abraham, saying, In thee shall all nations be blessed. So then they which be of faith are blessed with faithful Abraham.”
‭‭Galatians‬ ‭3:8-9‬ ‭

understand that’s not a promise to only israel but it’s a promise to all People of all nations it’s this

“and in thy seed shall all the nations of the earth be blessed; because thou hast obeyed my voice.”
‭‭Genesis‬ ‭22:18‬ ‭

“Now to Abraham and his seed were the promises made. He saith not, And to seeds, as of many; but as of one, And to thy seed, which is Christ.”
‭‭Galatians‬ ‭3:16‬ ‭KJV‬‬

What you’ve pointed to in acts is based on that promise to all nations not the law of Moses which is the only thing exclusive to israel

“Ye are the children of the prophets, and of the covenant which God made with our fathers, saying unto Abraham, And in thy seed shall all the kindreds of the earth be blessed.

Unto you first God, having raised up his Son Jesus, sent him to bless you, in turning away every one of you from his iniquities.”
‭‭Acts‬ ‭3:25-26‬ ‭KJV‬‬

If you follow the gospel you’ll find out that’s just what God was always saying Christ would be born an Israelite , would speak the everlasting covenant , would suffer and die for all mans sin all the worlds sin , would be raised up and taken to the throne of David in heaven until all the world was brought into subjection to his word either through repentance wand faith or through utter destruction serving Satan


he came to israel first but he’s for everyone who’s willing to hear and believe the gospel
 

G00WZ

Senior Member
May 16, 2014
1,313
449
83
38
The bible states that -
"Without faith it is impossible to please God"

So what is the definition of faith?

The bible's definition of faith is -

Faith is the substance of things hoped for,
The evidence of things not seen. (Hebrews 11:1)

In our world of the 5 senses (and for some who also claim a 6th sense),
the bible's definition is out of this world, and does not fit any model of any known definition on the face of this earth.

Can you imagine sending some astronauts to the moon and telling them, we hope you reach there, because we really don't have any evidence that you will actually reach there.

You probably would have to go to the mental institutions or "like places" to secure any volunteers for such a mission. For sure the millionaire, with his huge wealth here on this earth would not go.

Everyone in today's world in his right state of mind, will want some guarantee for anything he does.

Would you go to your job, working for 8 hours, knowing that there is no guarantee that you will be paid. I doubt it, especially with the scams and greed that people resort to.

I wonder if anyone would like to comment on this definition of faith by the bible, for faith is the requirement into the kingdom of God.
Faith in a nutshell is imagination, you can't see it but yet He exists both before and after the manifestation of what you were hoping for. If you want to take it a step further Christ Himself is the mind or imagination and identity of God but i'll spare people all of the esoteric stuff so i'll just quote Matthew 3:17 in response to "Without faith it is impossible to please God".

Hebrews 11:1 faith is the substance of things hoped for the evidence of things not seen.

While it is true faith is unseen technically faith can be seen through belief through the acts of the people in response to Christ because in Mark 2:4-5 Jesus saw peoples faith towards Him because He was able to see what they are imagining/hoping for because it's evident that they know what He can do.

Mark 2:4-5
4 And when they could not come nigh unto him for the press, they uncovered the roof where he was: and when they had broken it up, they let down the bed wherein the sick of the palsy lay. 5 When Jesus saw their faith, he said unto the sick of the palsy, Son, thy sins be forgiven thee.
 
P

pablocito

Guest
“If you read Acts 3:22-26, you will notice that Moses said that Jesus was sent as a prophet to the Jews of the 1st covenant.”

you mean he came to them first ? But is for all who God calls

“Now when they heard this, they were pricked in their heart, and said unto Peter and to the rest of the apostles, Men and brethren, what shall we do? Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost.

For the promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as the Lord our God shall call.

And with many other words did he testify and exhort, saying, Save yourselves from this untoward generation. Then they that gladly received his word were baptized: and the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls.”
‭‭Acts‬ ‭2:37-41‬ ‭KJV‬‬

that’s consistent with the entire Bible it’s not that Jesus was only sent to Jews it’s that he was sent to only Jews first , then they rejected him but a remnant had believed then three were sent out with the exact same gospel to all nations.

watch how this unfolds

The beginning of the gospel of Jesus Christ, the Son of God; Now after that John was put in prison, Jesus came into Galilee, preaching the gospel of the kingdom of God, and saying, The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand: repent ye, and believe the gospel.”
‭‭Mark‬ ‭1:1, 14-15‬ ‭

“These twelve Jesus sent forth, and commanded them, saying, Go not into the way of the Gentiles, and into any city of the Samaritans enter ye not: but go rather to the lost sheep of the house of Israel.”
‭‭Matthew‬ ‭10:5-6‬ ‭KJV‬‬

So the gospel is forst preached exclusively to israel but then they reject him , accuse him of blasphemy and call for his death. A remnant had believed in him but the crowds cried “ crucify him crucify him we have no king but Caesar “

then you have the inclusion of the gentiles into the same message and promises he had made first to israel

Jesus began saying this before he died

“And this gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in all the world for a witness unto all nations; and then shall the end come.”
‭‭Matthew‬ ‭24:14‬ ‭KJV‬‬

And then after he died and rose the same exact gospel he had preached to those in Israel is sent out to all nations by the remnant of Israel who had believed him

“And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth.

Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen.”
‭‭Matthew‬ ‭28:18-20‬ ‭KJV‬‬

“And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature. He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved;

but he that believeth not shall be damned.”
‭‭Mark‬ ‭16:15-16‬ ‭

Jesus was always sent to all People he would come to israel first to but then would go out to all nations for salvation

all the apostles were doing was carrying out what God always said would happen

He was sent first to israel and then to the world the apostles were just carrying out the great commission “ go preach to the world everything I taught you and whoever believes will be saved “

As for Paul he was no dofferent he preached the gospel of the kingdom to Israelites and then to gentiles

“And when they( Jews ) had appointed him a day, there came many to him into his lodging; to whom he expounded and testified the kingdom of God, persuading them concerning Jesus, both out of the law of Moses, and out of the prophets, from morning till evening.

And some believed the things which were spoken, and some believed not.

( after Paul references the prophets calling the Israelites blind he says “ now it’s sent to the gentiles and they will hear it “


And Paul dwelt two whole years in his own hired house, and received all that came in unto him, preaching the kingdom of God, and teaching those things which concern the Lord Jesus Christ, with all confidence, no man forbidding him.
‭‭Acts‬ ‭28:23-24, 30-31‬ ‭KJV‬‬

Jesus is for everyone who’s willing to stop rejecting his word whether they used to be Jew or gentile it was always the plan from Abraham’s promise of the gospel

“And the scripture, foreseeing that God would justify the heathen through faith, preached before the gospel unto Abraham, saying, In thee shall all nations be blessed. So then they which be of faith are blessed with faithful Abraham.”
‭‭Galatians‬ ‭3:8-9‬ ‭

understand that’s not a promise to only israel but it’s a promise to all People of all nations it’s this

“and in thy seed shall all the nations of the earth be blessed; because thou hast obeyed my voice.”
‭‭Genesis‬ ‭22:18‬ ‭

“Now to Abraham and his seed were the promises made. He saith not, And to seeds, as of many; but as of one, And to thy seed, which is Christ.”
‭‭Galatians‬ ‭3:16‬ ‭KJV‬‬

What you’ve pointed to in acts is based on that promise to all nations not the law of Moses which is the only thing exclusive to israel

“Ye are the children of the prophets, and of the covenant which God made with our fathers, saying unto Abraham, And in thy seed shall all the kindreds of the earth be blessed.

Unto you first God, having raised up his Son Jesus, sent him to bless you, in turning away every one of you from his iniquities.”
‭‭Acts‬ ‭3:25-26‬ ‭KJV‬‬

If you follow the gospel you’ll find out that’s just what God was always saying Christ would be born an Israelite , would speak the everlasting covenant , would suffer and die for all mans sin all the worlds sin , would be raised up and taken to the throne of David in heaven until all the world was brought into subjection to his word either through repentance wand faith or through utter destruction serving Satan


he came to israel first but he’s for everyone who’s willing to hear and believe the gospel

Joh 2:23 Now when he was in Jerusalem at the passover, in the feast day, many believed in his name, when they saw the miracles which he did.
Joh 2:24 But Jesus did not commit himself unto them, because he knew all men,
Joh 2:25 And needed not that any should testify of man: for he knew what was in man.

This a very interesting action taken by Jesus as his foreknowledge of all men came into play here.
This was a very negative response of Jesus to the people who even believed on his name because of the miracles which he performed.

This confirms Jesus's account when he states in John 17 that he has lost none that the Father had given to him except for the son of perdition.

Lastly I want to say that Jesus came to the gentiles. (of course the lost sheep of Israel, where he sent out the 12 and told them to not go the gentiles or the Samaritans is the exception)

1Ti 3:16 And without controversy great is the mystery of godliness: God was manifest in the flesh, justified in the Spirit, seen of angels, preached unto the Gentiles, believed on in the world, received up into glory.

The mix-up in the world of today is concerning who is who.
There are no more Jews in the world today in the sight of God, God has moved on in his program of salvation and this latter day world is in scope. (The world contains black, yellow, green blue, Chinese, those who call themselves Jews and are not (Jesus addresses this very clearly in Revelation 2 and 3)

Everybody is a gentile, otherwise a heathen.

Paul also moved forward when he claimed that there is neither Jew, nor Greek in the sight of God.

I have brought to your attention 2 points above.

This last point is the most important. I would like to know (and you do not have to answer as this very topic is very controversial and thus we should not really start anything that would lead to strife.)
Why do you think God who is perfect gave us 4 gospels. (Matthew, Mark, Luke and John) instead of just one or maybe two.