Tag: apostles

The Commands of Christ Jesus, the power of an endless Life

Rohnel, and my beloved husband, Peter, servants of God and Christ, unto the twelve tribes scattered in the world beloved of God, called to be saints, to the little children and to the faithful: Grace to you and peace from God our Father, and the Lord Jesus Christ.

Eph 1:3  Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ: 

Eph 1:4 According as he hath chosen us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before him in love: 

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Psa 68:19  Blessed be the Lord, who daily loadeth us with benefits, even the God of our salvation. Selah. 

Psa 68:20 He that is our God is the God of salvation; and unto GOD the Lord belong the issues from death. 

The Way and the Spirit in which We Assemble 

1Co 7:19 Circumcision is nothing, and uncircumcision is nothing, but the keeping of the commandments of God. 

Psa 119:73 JOD. Thy hands have made me and fashioned me: give me understanding, that I may learn thy commandments. 

Joh 14:15 If ye love me, keep my commandments. 

Joh 14:21 He that hath my commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth me: and he that loveth me shall be loved of my Father, and I will love him, and will manifest myself to him. 

Herewith, the Commandments of our Lord, Jesus Christ, as written in the NT regarding the assembling of us together, are not necessarily in any order, and some Commandments overlap. These are just some of the Commandments, as all the Commandments given by the Apostles in the Church will, Lord willing, be in another letter.

The Way We Assemble Together.

The Lord’s Supper.

When we come together, we have to discern the Lord’s Body and tarry for each other. Those who are hungry should eat/study at home, and those who are full should tarry for their brethren. We do not eat of the Lord’s Supper worthily if one is hungry for the Word and another is full of the Word. So, study at home if you are hungry and wait for the hungry brethren if you are full. Let each man examine himself in this regard. Paul is not happy with the Corinthians and tells them why they are sick, spiritually dead, and some are weak. This is for our admonition.

1Co 11:20  When ye come together therefore into one place, this is not to eat the Lord’s supper. 

1Co 11:21  For in eating every one taketh before other his own supper: and one is hungry, and another is drunken. 

1Co 11:22  What? have ye not houses to eat and to drink in? or despise ye the church of God, and shame them that have not? What shall I say to you? shall I praise you in this? I praise you not. 

The correct way to eat the Lord’s Supper is to be not guilty of His Body and of His Blood by studying at home and to tarry for one another. Members of the Church are in different stages of their walk, and therefore, we have to discern our coming together correctly when eating the Lord’s Supper.

1Co 11:23  For I have received of the Lord that which also I delivered unto you, That the Lord Jesus the same night in which he was betrayed took bread:

1Co 11:24  And when he had given thanks, he brake it, and said, Take, eat: this is my body, which is broken for you: this do in remembrance of me. 

1Co 11:25  After the same manner also he took the cup, when he had supped, saying, This cup is the new testament in my blood: this do ye, as oft as ye drink it, in remembrance of me. 

1Co 11:26  For as often as ye eat this bread, and drink this cup, ye do shew the Lord’s death till he come. 

1Co 11:27  Wherefore whosoever shall eat this bread, and drink this cup of the Lord, unworthily, shall be guilty of the body and blood of the Lord. 

Let us judge ourselves if we are guilty of eating the Lord’s Supper unworthily. To judge is to discern between the clean and the unclean, between what is of God and what is of the devil, our carnal minds. We strive to please the Lord only. Our consciences convict us if we are guilty.

1Co 11:28  But let a man examine himself, and so let him eat of that bread, and drink of that cup. 

1Co 11:29  For he that eateth and drinketh unworthily, eateth and drinketh damnation to himself, not discerning the Lord’s body. 

1Co 11:30  For this cause many are weak and sickly among you, and many sleep. 

1Co 11:31  For if we would judge ourselves, we should not be judged. 

1Co 11:32  But when we are judged, we are chastened of the Lord, that we should not be condemned with the world. 

1Co 11:33  Wherefore, my brethren, when ye come together to eat, tarry one for another. 

1Co 11:34  And if any man hunger, let him eat at home; that ye come not together unto condemnation. And the rest will I set in order when I come. 

Speaking in Tongues versus Prophesy.

Speaking in tongues is speaking in parables; it is speaking in a mystery. Therefore, if someone is speaking in a mystery, he has to interpret the mystery/parable, or someone else has to interpret. How else will the mystery be understood?

1Co 14:1  Follow after charity, and desire spiritual gifts, but rather that ye may prophesy. 

1Co 14:2  For he that speaketh in an unknown tongue speaketh not unto men, but unto God: for no man understandeth him; howbeit in the spirit he speaketh mysteries. 

1Co 14:3  But he that prophesieth speaketh unto men to edification, and exhortation, and comfort. 

1Co 14:4  He that speaketh in an unknown tongue edifieth himself; but he that prophesieth edifieth the church. 

Paul shows us that to prophesy, that is speaking to the Church to edify, exhort, or comfort, is a far better gift because it edifies the Church, and we should rather covet the gift of prophecy above other gifts.

1Co 14:5  I would that ye all spake with tongues, but rather that ye prophesied: for greater is he that prophesieth than he that speaketh with tongues, except he interpret, that the church may receive edifying. 

If all in the Church speak with tongues, somebody unlearned or an unbeliever does not understand what we are saying, because we speak in a mystery/parable. Nobody listening profits anything where tongues are spoken without an interpretation. Without understanding, there is no wisdom.

1Co 14:6  Now, brethren, if I come unto you speaking with tongues, what shall I profit you, except I shall speak to you either by revelation, or by knowledge, or by prophesying, or by doctrine? 

1Co 14:7  And even things without life giving sound, whether pipe or harp, except they give a distinction in the sounds, how shall it be known what is piped or harped? 

1Co 14:8  For if the trumpet give an uncertain sound, who shall prepare himself to the battle? 

1Co 14:9  So likewise ye, except ye utter by the tongue words easy to be understood, how shall it be known what is spoken? for ye shall speak into the air. 

1Co 14:10  There are, it may be, so many kinds of voices in the world, and none of them is without signification. 

1Co 14:11  Therefore if I know not the meaning of the voice, I shall be unto him that speaketh a barbarian, and he that speaketh shall be a barbarian unto me. 

We therefore rather seek the gift of prophecy, so the Church may be edified. When speaking in tongues/parables, we pray that we may explain the parable. Tongues without interpretation edify the person speaking in tongues only. Tongues are a sign to the unbelievers, and prophecy serves the believers. Paul spoke in tongues more than anyone else, yet he commands us to speak fewer words and with understanding.

1Co 14:12  Even so ye, forasmuch as ye are zealous of spiritual gifts, seek that ye may excel to the edifying of the church. 

1Co 14:13  Wherefore let him that speaketh in an unknown tongue pray that he may interpret.

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1Co 14:18  I thank my God, I speak with tongues more than ye all: 

1Co 14:19  Yet in the church I had rather speak five words with my understanding, that by my voice I might teach others also, than ten thousand words in an unknown tongue. 

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1Co 14:22  Wherefore tongues are for a sign, not to them that believe, but to them that believe not: but prophesying serveth not for them that believe not, but for them which believe. 

Paul writes that unbelievers will think we are crazy if we speak in tongues without interpreting. If, however, we prophesy, unbelievers or the unlearned will worship God and acknowledge that God is in us. The glory will go back to God, where it belongs. This matter of speaking in tongues and prophesying in the Church, and the difference between them, gets a lot of attention from Paul. Therefore, we take note.

1Co 14:23  If therefore the whole church be come together into one place, and all speak with tongues, and there come in those that are unlearned, or unbelievers, will they not say that ye are mad? 

1Co 14:24  But if all prophesy, and there come in one that believeth not, or one unlearned, he is convinced of all, he is judged of all: 

1Co 14:25  And thus are the secrets of his heart made manifest; and so falling down on his face he will worship God, and report that God is in you of a truth. 

Speaking in tongues is done by two or three at the most, and then there must be an interpreter; otherwise, those speaking in tongues must rather keep quiet. Prophets speak two or three, whilst others listen and judge what is being said. We may all prophesy. When something is revealed to someone who sits by, let the first one keep quiet. All things are done to edify the Assembly, whether it is doctrine, Psalms, tongues, revelations, interpretations, or prophesying. God is a God of order and not a God of confusion.

1Co 14:26  How is it then, brethren? when ye come together, every one of you hath a psalm, hath a doctrine, hath a tongue, hath a revelation, hath an interpretation. Let all things be done unto edifying. 

1Co 14:27  If any man speak in an unknown tongue, let it be by two, or at the most by three, and that by course; and let one interpret. 

1Co 14:28  But if there be no interpreter, let him keep silence in the church; and let him speak to himself, and to God. 

1Co 14:29  Let the prophets speak two or three, and let the other judge. 

1Co 14:30  If any thing be revealed to another that sitteth by, let the first hold his peace. 

1Co 14:31  For ye may all prophesy one by one, that all may learn, and all may be comforted. 

The Church does not forbid speaking in tongues, let all be done orderly in the Assembly.

1Co 14:39  Wherefore, brethren, covet to prophesy, and forbid not to speak with tongues. 

1Co 14:40  Let all things be done decently and in order. 

Women in the Assembly.

Women do not present studies but keep silent in the Church that is before the Comforter/Holy Spirit comes to them. After the Comforter/Faith comes, women are like the angels, not given in marriage, they are quickening spirits sent to those who obtain salvation. At this point, women are the children of the resurrection, where there is no male or female in the Church but all are one. Priscilla and Aquila laboured in the Gospel, and Paul had other women, fellow laborers, helping him preach the Gospel. As such, these women help in teaching the Gospel, raising up spiritual children.

1Co 14:34  Let your women keep silence in the churches: for it is not permitted unto them to speak; but they are commanded to be under obedience, as also saith the law. 

1Co 14:35  And if they will learn any thing, let them ask their husbands at home: for it is a shame for women to speak in the church. 

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Gal 3:24  Wherefore the law was our schoolmaster to bring us unto Christ, that we might be justified by faith. 

Gal 3:25  But after that faith is come, we are no longer under a schoolmaster. 

Gal 3:26  For ye are all the children of God by faith in Christ Jesus. 

Gal 3:27  For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ. 

Gal 3:28  There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus.

After the Comforter/Power comes, women become like the angels and they speak in the Church.

Heb 1:7  And of the angels he saith, Who maketh his angels spirits, and his ministers a flame of fire. 

They [women] are children of the resurrection after they received the Power of the Holy Spirit/Comforter. This is written in a parable in Mark 12 18-27. Women, after faith comes, raise up spiritual children, wash the saints’ feet, continue in the faith, charity, and holiness [1 Tim 2:15].

Mar 12:23  In the resurrection therefore, when they shall rise, whose wife shall she be of them? for the seven had her to wife. 

Mar 12:24  And Jesus answering said unto them, Do ye not therefore err, because ye know not the scriptures, neither the power of God? 

Mar 12:25  For when they shall rise from the dead, they neither marry, nor are given in marriage; but are as the angels which are in heaven. 

A second witness given us of women remaining silent in the Church before faith comes, not having authority over a man, is found in Timothy. After faith comes, women have the Power of the Holy Spirit and are angels sent forth. Furthermore, speaking spiritually now, women adorn themselves with the teaching of Christ, the singleness of His doctrine, the Gospel, and not with the rich apparel of the carnal mind being under the Law and the Prophets. Speaking spiritually is speaking in parables. The Lord’s Words are spiritual.

1Ti 2:9  In like manner also, that women adorn themselves in modest apparel, with shamefacedness and sobriety; not with broided hair, or gold, or pearls, or costly array; 

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

1Ti 2:11  Let the woman learn in silence with all subjection. 

1Ti 2:12  But I suffer not a woman to teach, nor to usurp authority over the man, but to be in silence. 

Coverings.

The Scriptures about coverings is a parable. What is being said? This is a parable that explains Christ and His Bride. The man is made into the image of God, and he is the head of the woman; see this as Christ is the Head of the Church, who was/is in the image of the Father. Because the man is in the image of Christ, the man’s head is uncovered because He is being made like Christ. Christ’s Head is uncovered because He is in the image of the Father.

1Co 11:3  But I would have you know, that the head of every man is Christ; and the head of the woman is the man; and the head of Christ is God. 

1Co 11:4  Every man praying or prophesying, having his head covered, dishonoureth his head. 

The woman’s head is her husband. Our covering is our husbands, and it means to be under the authority of our husbands. Spiritually speaking, as the Bride, our covering is Christ, which means we have the Gospel of Christ, we know His Commandments, and we are under Christ’s authority. When we are uncovered, spiritually speaking, we have not His doctrine and are not true sons but bastards. We have no covering in this case and are shaven.

1Co 11:5  But every woman that prayeth or prophesieth with her head uncovered dishonoureth her head: for that is even all one as if she were shaven. 

1Co 11:6  For if the woman be not covered, let her also be shorn: but if it be a shame for a woman to be shorn or shaven, let her be covered.

Christ is our covering, and we, as His Bride, are His Glory. We are being created for Christ’s sake and not the other way round. He is our Bridegroom and rejoices over us, and we, as His Bride, adorn ourselves for Him with His Gospel. The Power on the women’s head is the Gospel.

1Co 11:7  For a man indeed ought not to cover his head, forasmuch as he is the image and glory of God: but the woman is the glory of the man. 

1Co 11:8  For the man is not of the woman; but the woman of the man. 

1Co 11:9  Neither was the man created for the woman; but the woman for the man. 

1Co 11:10  For this cause ought the woman to have power on her head because of the angels. 

In the true Body of Christ, we are neither male nor female; we are both. There is no Jew or Greek because we are one. There is no bond or free.

1Co 11:11  Nevertheless neither is the man without the woman, neither the woman without the man, in the Lord. 

1Co 11:12  For as the woman is of the man, even so is the man also by the woman; but all things of God. 

The long hair of a woman, His Church, is her holiness, her set-apartness, that is Christ’s true Bride having His pure, unadulterated doctrine. She is holy in all of her ways, set-apart from the world, with a holy calling to do His Will. The holy things belong to us and our spiritual children.

1Co 11:13  Judge in yourselves: is it comely that a woman pray unto God uncovered? 

1Co 11:14  Doth not even nature itself teach you, that, if a man have long hair, it is a shame unto him? 

1Co 11:15  But if a woman have long hair, it is a glory to her: for her hair is given her for a covering. 

Gifts/Offices in the Church.

We have gifts of prophesying according to our measure of faith, ministry, teaching, exhortation, giving with simplicity, ruling with diligence, and giving of mercy [opening eyes and ears to see and hear] with cheerfulness. We wait on our ministry or teaching; the Lord reveals it to us in His time and our seasons.

Rom 12:4  For as we have many members in one body, and all members have not the same office: 

Rom 12:5  So we, being many, are one body in Christ, and every one members one of another. 

Rom 12:6  Having then gifts differing according to the grace that is given to us, whether prophecy, let us prophesy according to the proportion of faith; 

Rom 12:7  Or ministry, let us wait on our ministering: or he that teacheth, on teaching; 

Rom 12:8 Or he that exhorteth, on exhortation: he that giveth, let him do it with simplicity; he that ruleth, with diligence; he that sheweth mercy, with cheerfulness. 

In the Assembly of saints together, we have the Word of wisdom and the Word of knowledge. One has the gift of faith, and another has the gift of healing. One works miracles, another prophesies, another discerns spirits, another speaks in tongues, and another interprets tongues. Every man has a gift according to the proportion of faith given to us. All is for the perfecting of the saints.

1Co 12:7  But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to every man to profit withal. 

1Co 12:8  For to one is given by the Spirit the word of wisdom; to another the word of knowledge by the same Spirit; 

1Co 12:9  To another faith by the same Spirit; to another the gifts of healing by the same Spirit; 

1Co 12:10  To another the working of miracles; to another prophecy; to another discerning of spirits; to another divers kinds of tongues; to another the interpretation of tongues: 

1Co 12:11  But all these worketh that one and the selfsame Spirit, dividing to every man severally as he will. 

We are one Body with many members; we need each other, and God has set the members against each other, not man. It is the Lord’s Church, washed and sanctified by His Blood. It is one Spirit. We show the same care for all the members of the Body. We are Christ’s flesh and bones.

1Co 12:14  For the body is not one member, but many. 

1Co 12:15  If the foot shall say, Because I am not the hand, I am not of the body; is it therefore not of the body? 

1Co 12:16  And if the ear shall say, Because I am not the eye, I am not of the body; is it therefore not of the body? 

1Co 12:17  If the whole body were an eye, where were the hearing? If the whole were hearing, where were the smelling? 

1Co 12:18  But now hath God set the members every one of them in the body, as it hath pleased him.

1Co 12:19  And if they were all one member, where were the body? 

1Co 12:20  But now are they many members, yet but one body. 

1Co 12:21  And the eye cannot say unto the hand, I have no need of thee: nor again the head to the feet, I have no need of you. 

We give more honour to the less comely members because the comely parts lack nothing. We all suffer together, we all rejoice together. We are married to each other in Spirit and look out for each other. We keep the marriage bed undefiled.

1Co 12:22  Nay, much more those members of the body, which seem to be more feeble, are necessary: 

1Co 12:23  And those members of the body, which we think to be less honourable, upon these we bestow more abundant honour; and our uncomely parts have more abundant comeliness. 

1Co 12:24  For our comely parts have no need: but God hath tempered the body together, having given more abundant honour to that part which lacked: 

1Co 12:25  That there should be no schism in the body; but that the members should have the same care one for another. 

1Co 12:26  And whether one member suffer, all the members suffer with it; or one member be honoured, all the members rejoice with it.

1Co 12:27  Now ye are the body of Christ, and members in particular. 

Offices in the Church are first the Apostles, then Prophets, then Teachers, miracles, gifts of healing, helps, governments, then speaking in tongues. Not all have the same gifts, not all have the same office.

1Co 12:28  And God hath set some in the church, first apostles, secondarily prophets, thirdly teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of healings, helps, governments, diversities of tongues. 

1Co 12:29  Are all apostles? are all prophets? are all teachers? are all workers of miracles? 

1Co 12:30  Have all the gifts of healing? do all speak with tongues? do all interpret? 

1Co 12:31  But covet earnestly the best gifts: and yet shew I unto you a more excellent way. 

Here is the same witness in Ephesians. Gifts of Apostleship, Prophets, Evangelists, Pastors, and Teachers. We have to use our gifts to edify, comfort, and exhort the Church.

Eph 4:11  And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; 

1Pe 4:10  As every man hath received the gift, even so minister the same one to another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God. 

The Office of the Apostles.

Apostles are ordained by God.

The office of Apostleship is ordained by God. Nobody takes this upon himself, but it is God who works all things after the counsel of His own Will. Paul was shown to suffer much for Christ’s Name’s sake. Apostles are priests after the order of Melchizedek.

Act 9:15  But the Lord said unto him, Go thy way: for he is a chosen vessel unto me, to bear my name before the Gentiles, and kings, and the children of Israel: 

Act 9:16  For I will shew him how great things he must suffer for my name’s sake. 

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1Co 1:1  Paul, called to be an apostle of Jesus Christ through the will of God, and Sosthenes our brother, 

2Co 1:1  Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God, and Timothy our brother, unto the church of God which is at Corinth, with all the saints which are in all Achaia: 

Apostles are put into ministry; they have no choice.

The ministry of an Apostle is to preach the Commandments of God through Christ.

1Ti 1:12  And I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who hath enabled me, for that he counted me faithful, putting me into the ministry; 

1Ti 1:13 Who was before a blasphemer, and a persecutor, and injurious: but I obtained mercy, because I did it ignorantly in unbelief. 

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1Ti 2:7 Whereunto I am ordained a preacher, and an apostle, (I speak the truth in Christ, and lie not;) a teacher of the Gentiles in faith and verity. 

2Ti 1:1 Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God, according to the promise of life which is in Christ Jesus,

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2Ti 1:11  Whereunto I am appointed a preacher, and an apostle, and a teacher of the Gentiles. 

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Tit 1:1  Paul, a servant of God, and an apostle of Jesus Christ, according to the faith of God’s elect, and the acknowledging of the truth which is after godliness; 

Tit 1:2  In hope of eternal life, which God, that cannot lie, promised before the world began; 

Tit 1:3 But hath in due times manifested his word through preaching, which is committed unto me according to the commandment of God our Saviour; 

Apostles have a ministry to preach the Gospel.

Apostles preach the Gospel with the singleness of Christ, not to please men but to please God and Christ. They do not build on another’s foundation except that they build on Christ and Christ only. They preach the Baptism of John and tarry with their brethren in spiritual Jerusalem to receive Power from on High, that is to receive the Comforter within their hearts and minds. They are the First Fruits of God.

Rom 15:20  Yea, so have I strived to preach the gospel, not where Christ was named, lest I should build upon another man’s foundation: 

1Co 1:17 For Christ sent me not to baptize, but to preach the gospel: not with wisdom of words, lest the cross of Christ should be made of none effect. 

1Co 9:16 For though I preach the gospel, I have nothing to glory of: for necessity is laid upon me; yea, woe is unto me, if I preach not the gospel! 

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1Th 2:4  But as we were allowed of God to be put in trust with the gospel, even so we speak; not as pleasing men, but God, which trieth our hearts. 

1Th 2:5  For neither at any time used we flattering words, as ye know, nor a cloke of covetousness; God is witness: 

1Th 2:6  Nor of men sought we glory, neither of you, nor yet of others, when we might have been burdensome, as the apostles of Christ. 

Apostles defend the Gospel.

Apostles have to defend the Gospel at all times because there are many anti-Christ’s in the world. They are in bonds as prisoners of Christ. Paul writes to the Church to remember those in bonds as in bonds with them.

Php 1:16  The one preach Christ of contention, not sincerely, supposing to add affliction to my bonds: 

Php 1:17  But the other of love, knowing that I am set for the defence of the gospel. 

Apostles are Stewards of the Oracles of God.

Apostles are stewards of the mysteries of God entrusted to them. They speak in parables and also know the interpretation thereof.

1Co 4:1 Let a man so account of us, as of the ministers of Christ, and stewards of the mysteries of God.

Apostles declare all the Council of God.

Apostles freely give because freely they receive.

Act 20:26  Wherefore I take you to record this day, that I am pure from the blood of all men. 

Act 20:27 For I have not shunned to declare unto you all the counsel of God.

Apostles receive their Insight directly from God.

Apostles are taught of no man but receive their insight by the revelation of Jesus Christ, which is the Testimony of Christ.

Gal 1:11  But I certify you, brethren, that the gospel which was preached of me is not after man. 

Gal 1:12 For I neither received it of man, neither was I taught it, but by the revelation of Jesus Christ. 

Apostles labour Night and Day.

Apostles labour night and day for their spiritual children to provide them with a spiritual resting place, food and clothing in Christ. They begat those the Lord gave them through the Gospel.

1Co 4:15  For though ye have ten thousand instructors in Christ, yet have ye not many fathers: for in Christ Jesus I have begotten you through the gospel. 

1Th 2:9  For ye remember, brethren, our labour and travail: for labouring night and day, because we would not be chargeable unto any of you, we preached unto you the gospel of God. 

 1Th 2:11 As ye know how we exhorted and comforted and charged every one of you, as a father doth his children, 

Apostles are Servants to All.

Apostles are the servants of all, washing the feet of all, serving the Lord Christ and the Father, with reference and fear. They serve night and day.

1Co 9:19  For though I be free from all men, yet have I made myself servant unto all, that I might gain the more. 

1Co 9:20  And unto the Jews I became as a Jew, that I might gain the Jews; to them that are under the law, as under the law, that I might gain them that are under the law; 

1Co 9:21  To them that are without law, as without law, (being not without law to God, but under the law to Christ,) that I might gain them that are without law. 

1Co 9:22  To the weak became I as weak, that I might gain the weak: I am made all things to all men, that I might by all means save some. 

1Co 9:23  And this I do for the gospel’s sake, that I might be partaker thereof with you. 

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2Co 4:5  For we preach not ourselves, but Christ Jesus the Lord; and ourselves your servants for Jesus’ sake. 

Apostles present every man Perfect.

Apostles present every man perfect before Christ comes and travail in birth until the new man is formed in their children. Like a father looks out for his son, so they look out for the Church. They present the Church as a chaste virgin to Christ, which means they present the Church to Christ with His unadulterated Word of the Gospel.

Col 1:28  Whom we preach, warning every man, and teaching every man in all wisdom; that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus: 

Col 1:29  Whereunto I also labour, striving according to his working, which worketh in me mightily. 

Apostles suffer as Evildoers and are in Bonds.

Apostles are in much affliction and suffering for the Church’s sake. They suffer for the Body’s sake and are always filling up what is behind in the afflictions of Christ. To whom much is given, much is also required. They have to patiently wait for the precious fruit of the earth. They at times hunger and thirst and have no sure dwelling place before the Father comes to reveal Christ in them.

Col 1:24 Who now rejoice in my sufferings for you, and fill up that which is behind of the afflictions of Christ in my flesh for his body’s sake, which is the church: 

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2Ti 2:8  Remember that Jesus Christ of the seed of David was raised from the dead according to my gospel: 

2Ti 2:9  Wherein I suffer trouble, as an evil doer, even unto bonds; but the word of God is not bound. 

2Ti 2:10 Therefore I endure all things for the elect’s sakes, that they may also obtain the salvation which is in Christ Jesus with eternal glory. 

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2Ti 3:10  But thou hast fully known my doctrine, manner of life, purpose, faith, longsuffering, charity, patience, 

2Ti 3:11 Persecutions, afflictions, which came unto me at Antioch, at Iconium, at Lystra; what persecutions I endured: but out of them all the Lord delivered me. 

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Eph 3:13 Wherefore I desire that ye faint not at my tribulations for you, which is your glory. 

The Office of the Elders.

Elders feed the Flock of God.

Paul said he declared the whole council of God to the Churches. Elders have to feed the flock of God, not lording over them, but as being examples to them. They have to be faithful to the Gospel. They preach the Gospel out of necessity and not to draw disciples after themselves.

Act 20:26  Wherefore I take you to record this day, that I am pure from the blood of all men. 

Act 20:27  For I have not shunned to declare unto you all the counsel of God. 

Act 20:28 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. 

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1Co 4:2 Moreover it is required in stewards, that a man be found faithful. 

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1Pe 5:1  The elders which are among you I exhort, who am also an elder, and a witness of the sufferings of Christ, and also a partaker of the glory that shall be revealed: 

1Pe 5:2  Feed the flock of God which is among you, taking the oversight thereof, not by constraint, but willingly; not for filthy lucre, but of a ready mind; 

1Pe 5:3  Neither as being lords over God’s heritage, but being ensamples to the flock. 

Elders who labour in the Word and Doctrine.

The Elders who labour in the Word and doctrine are worthy of double honour. They look out for the souls of those entrusted to them.

1Th 5:12  And we beseech you, brethren, to know them which labour among you, and are over you in the Lord, and admonish you; 

1Th 5:13 And to esteem them very highly in love for their work’s sake. And be at peace among yourselves. 

1Ti 5:17  Let the elders that rule well be counted worthy of double honour, especially they who labour in the word and doctrine.

Elders have to be obeyed.

Obey those Elders who have rule over you. They watched for your souls, and it should be joyous to them and not grievous.

Heb 13:17 Obey them that have the rule over you, and submit yourselves: for they watch for your souls, as they that must give account, that they may do it with joy, and not with grief: for that is unprofitable for you. 

Do not prevent the Elders from preaching the Gospel.

Do not prevent the Elders from preaching the Gospel. They are worthy of their reward, which is Christ in them, the Hope of Glory. They live off the Gospel and are fed with the Gospel.

1Ti 5:18  For the scripture saith, Thou shalt not muzzle the ox that treadeth out the corn. And, The labourer is worthy of his reward. 

Accusations against Elders.

Have two or three witnesses if you accuse an Elder and those Elders that sin, rebuke before all, doing all without partiality.

1Ti 5:19  Against an elder receive not an accusation, but before two or three witnesses. 

1Ti 5:20  Them that sin rebuke before all, that others also may fear. 

1Ti 5:21 I charge thee before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, and the elect angels, that thou observe these things without preferring one before another, doing nothing by partiality. 

Rebuke Not an Elder.

In Timothy, however, Paul writes to rather intreat an elder as a father and elder women as mothers, younger ones as brethren and sisters.

1Ti 5:1  Rebuke not an elder, but intreat him as a father; and the younger men as brethren; 

1Ti 5:2 The elder women as mothers; the younger as sisters, with all purity. 

Submit to the Elders.

Younger ones, younger in the faith, submit to the Elders, and all in the Assembly be clothed with a cloak of humility because we are members of one another. God, in due time, lifts us up when we humble ourselves.

1Pe 5:5  Likewise, ye younger, submit yourselves unto the elder. Yea, all of you be subject one to another, and be clothed with humility: for God resisteth the proud, and giveth grace to the humble. 

1Pe 5:6 Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time:

Elders pray for those who are Sick.

If anyone is sick, call for the Elders in the Church, so they may pray over you spiritually speaking, preaching the Gospel to you, so you may be healed through the opening of your eyes and ears, and you being raised up spiritually on the third day, which is now for the House of God. These are spiritual words. The Gospel opens eyes to see and ears to hear. It is called the prayer of Faith.

Jas 5:14  Is any sick among you? let him call for the elders of the church; and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord: 

Jas 5:15  And the prayer of faith shall save the sick, and the Lord shall raise him up; and if he have committed sins, they shall be forgiven him. 

The Office of Deacons/Bishops.

Below are the qualifications of a Deacon or a Bishop. Spiritually speaking, a Deacon is loyal to Christ [the husband of one wife], not being puffed up with knowledge but holding to the faith with a pure conscience within and without. Someone who has proved to be faithful, not wanting to draw men after himself. They have to rule their own children well, that is to say, they must have a renewing mindset, spiritually speaking.

1Ti 3:2  A bishop then must be blameless, the husband of one wife, vigilant, sober, of good behaviour, given to hospitality, apt to teach; 

1Ti 3:3  Not given to wine, no striker, not greedy of filthy lucre; but patient, not a brawler, not covetous; 

1Ti 3:4  One that ruleth well his own house, having his children in subjection with all gravity; 

1Ti 3:5  (For if a man know not how to rule his own house, how shall he take care of the church of God?) 

1Ti 3:6  Not a novice, lest being lifted up with pride he fall into the condemnation of the devil. 

1Ti 3:7  Moreover he must have a good report of them which are without; lest he fall into reproach and the snare of the devil

1Ti 3:8  Likewise must the deacons be grave, not doubletongued, not given to much wine, not greedy of filthy lucre; 

1Ti 3:9  Holding the mystery of the faith in a pure conscience. 

1Ti 3:10  And let these also first be proved; then let them use the office of a deacon, being found blameless. 

1Ti 3:12  Let the deacons be the husbands of one wife, ruling their children and their own houses well. 

1Ti 3:13 For they that have used the office of a deacon well purchase to themselves a good degree, and great boldness in the faith which is in Christ Jesus. 

In Titus, Paul mentions that Deacons/Bishops must be hospitable, holy, and be able to exhort the gainsayers, in other words, rightly dividing the Word of Truth. This involves studying the Word at home. Deacons have to be scribes who hold to the Gospel.

Tit 1:6  If any be blameless, the husband of one wife, having faithful children not accused of riot or unruly. 

Tit 1:7  For a bishop must be blameless, as the steward of God; not selfwilled, not soon angry, not given to wine, no striker, not given to filthy lucre; 

Tit 1:8  But a lover of hospitality, a lover of good men, sober, just, holy, temperate; 

Tit 1:9 Holding fast the faithful word as he hath been taught, that he may be able by sound doctrine both to exhort and to convince the gainsayers. 

Deacons and Bishops, furthermore, must not give heed to fables and traditions of men delivered to them from their fathers. They have to preach the Gospel. They stay on the narrow way, not accusing or excusing within themselves, having a form of godliness, but they preach what they have heard from the beginning.

Tit 1:10  For there are many unruly and vain talkers and deceivers, specially they of the circumcision: 

Tit 1:11  Whose mouths must be stopped, who subvert whole houses, teaching things which they ought not, for filthy lucre’s sake. 

Tit 1:12  One of themselves, even a prophet of their own, said, The Cretians are alway liars, evil beasts, slow bellies. 

Tit 1:13  This witness is true. Wherefore rebuke them sharply, that they may be sound in the faith; 

Tit 1:14 Not giving heed to Jewish fables, and commandments of men, that turn from the truth. 

Wives of Deacons/Bishops.

Wives of deacons have to be faithful in all, small and great, not given to too much wine, that is to say, not have too much knowledge, and they have to be honourable and not false accusers, that is to say, trustworthy.

1Ti 3:11  Even so must their wives be grave, not slanderers, sober, faithful in all things. 

The Office of Serving Tables.

The Office of serving tables is to help the Apostles who labour in the Word night and day, to look after the widows in the Assembly. Widows are those who need extra attention and study to bring them along. A person serving tables must be able to do so and be full of the Holy Spirit and Wisdom [Christ].

Act 6:3  Wherefore, brethren, look ye out among you seven men of honest report, full of the Holy Ghost and wisdom, whom we may appoint over this business. 

Act 6:4  But we will give ourselves continually to prayer, and to the ministry of the word. 

Act 6:5  And the saying pleased the whole multitude: and they chose Stephen, a man full of faith and of the Holy Ghost, and Philip, and Prochorus, and Nicanor, and Timon, and Parmenas, and Nicolas a proselyte of Antioch: 

Act 6:6  Whom they set before the apostles: and when they had prayed, they laid their hands on them. 

Those who serve tables serve the poor in Jerusalem. This is a parable. Jerusalem is where we tarry for the Spirit of God sent down from heaven. Here are a few examples of the Church serving the poor in Jerusalem, which is the same as looking after the widows to help them along in their faith and their needs.

Rom 15:26  For it hath pleased them of Macedonia and Achaia to make a certain contribution for the poor saints which are at Jerusalem. 

Rom 15:27  It hath pleased them verily; and their debtors they are. For if the Gentiles have been made partakers of their spiritual things, their duty is also to minister unto them in carnal things.

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Co 16:1  Now concerning the collection for the saints, as I have given order to the churches of Galatia, even so do ye. 

1Co 16:2  Upon the first day of the week let every one of you lay by him in store, as God hath prospered him, that there be no gatherings when I come. 

1Co 16:3  And when I come, whomsoever ye shall approve by your letters, them will I send to bring your liberality unto Jerusalem. 

The Spirit in which We Assemble Together

Preaching.

In the Assembly, we preach Christ unadulterated, not adding to the Word, not taking away from the Word. We do not preach anything else except what we have heard from the beginning. The anointing which we received stays in us, and we do not need that any man [lie] teaches us, spiritually speaking. That is after the Comforter comes to us. Before Faith comes to us, we are under tutors and governors according to the Book of Galatians.

2Ti 4:2 Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine. 

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Gal 1:8  But though we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel unto you than that which we have preached unto you, let him be accursed. 

Gal 1:9 As we said before, so say I now again, If any man preach any other gospel unto you than that ye have received, let him be accursed. 

Fornication.

Fornication is idolatry, it is worshipping our own selves, the creation, instead of the Creator; it is the work of our own hands; it is too much meat, it is too much knowledge without the Commandments of the Lord. The Bride of Christ is very aware of the fact not to think above what is written and to flee fornication. She is espoused/married to Christ and is faithful, waiting for the adoption, or she is already married to Christ, that is to say, she already received the Promise and is now married to Christ.

1Co 5:11  But now I have written unto you not to keep company, if any man that is called a brother be a fornicator, or covetous, or an idolater, or a railer, or a drunkard, or an extortioner; with such an one no not to eat. 

Eph 5:3  But fornication, and all uncleanness, or covetousness, let it not be once named among you, as becometh saints; 

Col 3:5  Mortify therefore your members which are upon the earth; fornication, uncleanness, inordinate affection, evil concupiscence, and covetousness, which is idolatry: 

1Th 4:3  For this is the will of God, even your sanctification, that ye should abstain from fornication: 

Rich in Knowledge.

We do not sit in idols’ temples and entice our weak brothers to do the same, but we are content with the Gospel of Christ. We do not covet. Sitting in idols’ temples is enticing our brothers to do the same. That is when we stray from the Word, and we do not keep to the Commandments in Word and deed. This is defrauding our brethren of salvation. Covetousness is to not be content with what we have. It is to be rich in knowledge only, but this knowledge is the dainty meat of the Word without Christ. It is without the Gospel.

1Th 4:5  Not in the lust of concupiscence, even as the Gentiles which know not God: 

1Th 4:6  That no man go beyond and defraud his brother in any matter: because that the Lord is the avenger of all such, as we also have forewarned you and testified. 

1Th 4:7  For God hath not called us unto uncleanness, but unto holiness.

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Heb 13:5  Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee. 

2Pe 2:3 And through covetousness shall they with feigned words make merchandise of you: whose judgment now of a long time lingereth not, and their damnation slumbereth not. 

Contentment.

As the Body of Christ, we are content with His Commandments. We do not want more knowledge, the meat that does not profit, but strive to preach the Gospel. Hearing, knowing, and doing Christ’s Commandments make us the pure, undefiled Bride of Christ. We are content with what the Lord is giving us. His food is plentiful, and we need nothing. Christ told the soldiers to be content with their pay. What is our pay? Our pay is eternal [aionos] life, and that is to know the Father and Son.

1Ti 6:6  But godliness with contentment is great gain. 

1Ti 6:7  For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out. 

1Ti 6:8  And having food and raiment let us be therewith content. 

1Ti 6:10  For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows. 

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1Ti 6:17  Charge them that are rich in this world, that they be not highminded, nor trust in uncertain riches, but in the living God, who giveth us richly all things to enjoy; 

1Ti 6:18  That they do good, that they be rich in good works, ready to distribute, willing to communicate; 

1Ti 6:19  Laying up in store for themselves a good foundation against the time to come, that they may lay hold on eternal life. 

Fables and vain Babblings.

Giving heed to fables and vain babblings is not holding to our Head, which is Christ. Spiritually speaking, this is to say there is no resurrection. Saying this means we do not believe in the Blood of Christ, His Commandments. Therefore, we reckon we do not have to concern ourselves with His Commandments, His Gospel. It is to hold fast to the vain traditions of our fathers. This is very deceiving, and this is the spirit of anti-Christ.

Col 2:18  Let no man beguile you of your reward in a voluntary humility and worshipping of angels, intruding into those things which he hath not seen, vainly puffed up by his fleshly mind, 

Col 2:19 And not holding the Head, from which all the body by joints and bands having nourishment ministered, and knit together, increaseth with the increase of God. 

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1Ti 1:4  Neither give heed to fables and endless genealogies, which minister questions, rather than godly edifying which is in faith: so do. 

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2Ti 2:16  But shun profane and vain babblings: for they will increase unto more ungodliness. 

2Ti 2:17  And their word will eat as doth a canker: of whom is Hymenaeus and Philetus; 

2Ti 2:18 Who concerning the truth have erred, saying that the resurrection is past already; and overthrow the faith of some. 

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Heb 13:9  Be not carried about with divers and strange doctrines. For it is a good thing that the heart be established with grace; not with meats, which have not profited them that have been occupied therein. 

Heb 13:10 We have an altar, whereof they have no right to eat which serve the tabernacle. 

Furthermore, we are not deceived by too much wine, keeping our doctrine pure. Neither circumcision [spiritual Jew] nor uncircumcision[spiritual gentile] avails anything but only a new creature, which is accomplished by obeying Christ. Christ is His Word. He is the I AM. A New creature is being changed into the image of Christ. No stone is being left and everything is turned upside down in our lives, becoming this new image of Christ. The Lord makes us anew; we are clay in the Potter’s hand. This can only be accomplished through obeying His Commandments.

Eph 5:18  And be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess; but be filled with the Spirit; 

Col 2:4 And this I say, lest any man should beguile you with enticing words.

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Col 2:6  As ye have therefore received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk ye in him: 

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

Col 2:8 Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ. 

Holiness.

In our partaking of the Lord’s Supper and all manner of our conversation, we are careful to be holy and not to serve that which is profane to the Lord. We put on the new man, which is being created in holiness. We do not do things as we did them in the past, but reach out to what is in front of us, always striving for the high calling in Christ, running the race with certainty. To be holy is to be set apart from the world of carnal reasoning. Everything about the Day of the Lord is holy and set apart. We are set apart, our Doctrine is set apart, our gatherings are set apart, we are a set apart people, a people for a possession by God. Without holiness, we do not see Christ or the Father.

Heb 12:14  Follow peace with all men, and holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord: 

1Pe 1:15  But as he which hath called you is holy, so be ye holy in all manner of conversation; 

1Pe 1:16  Because it is written, Be ye holy; for I am holy. 

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Eph 4:22  That ye put off concerning the former conversation the old man, which is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts; 

Eph 4:23  And be renewed in the spirit of your mind; 

Eph 4:24 And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness. 

Speak/Speech.

We are careful to have no corrupt communication proceeding out of our mouths, striving to speak the Gospel of God. We do not speak with a double heart or with flattering words. We strive to speak Words of wisdom and righteousness. We speak like Paul and strive to speak five words with understanding, which is a parable meaning we speak with wisdom and understanding. Flattering words are likened unto the giving of gifts or bribes in spiritual language. The Lord hates this. Our speech is salted with salt, that is to say, our speech is salted with the Commandments of Christ. To be able to bridle our tongues makes us perfect.

Eph 4:29  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. 

Eph 5:4  Neither filthiness, nor foolish talking, nor jesting, which are not convenient: but rather giving of thanks. 

Col 4:6  Let your speech be alway with grace, seasoned with salt, that ye may know how ye ought to answer every man. 

Be of One Mind.

We are to strive with one mind for the Gospel, as a house divided against itself cannot stand. We glorify God with one mouth and one Spirit. We are joined and knitted together in love, which is the bond of perfection. Speaking more than one language divides and scatters us, and we end up falling backwards and being snared. God is One.

Rom 12:16  Be of the same mind one toward another. Mind not high things, but condescend to men of low estate. Be not wise in your own conceits. 

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Rom 15:5  Now the God of patience and consolation grant you to be likeminded one toward another according to Christ Jesus: 

Rom 15:6  That ye may with one mind and one mouth glorify God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. 

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1Co 1:10  Now I beseech you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye all speak the same thing, and that there be no divisions among you; but that ye be perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgment. 

Php 2:2  Fulfil ye my joy, that ye be likeminded, having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind. 

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1Pe 3:8  Finally, be ye all of one mind, having compassion one of another, love as brethren, be pitiful, be courteous: 

1Pe 3:9  Not rendering evil for evil, or railing for railing: but contrariwise blessing; knowing that ye are thereunto called, that ye should inherit a blessing.

Boasting.

Boasting is excluded in the Body of Christ. We know the Lord is running the show. Our every step, breath, and word is from the Lord. Christ sets the members; He also exalts and humbles us, His people, according to our seasons, so no flesh can boast. We only glory in Him. We know this very well, living by every Word that proceeds out of the mouth of God, because all things are ours. The Lord ordains our thoughts, steps and ways. Read Proverbs 16, and you will clearly see that there is no free will, another big lie which deceives the whole world.

1Co 1:29  That no flesh should glory in his presence. 

1Co 1:30  But of him are ye in Christ Jesus, who of God is made unto us wisdom, and righteousness, and sanctification, and redemption: 

1Co 1:31  That, according as it is written, He that glorieth, let him glory in the Lord. 

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1Co 3:21  Therefore let no man glory in men. For all things are yours; 

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; 

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2Co 3:5  Not that we are sufficient of ourselves to think any thing as of ourselves; but our sufficiency is of God; 

Love.

We love each other fervently by keeping Christ‘s Commandments fervently. This is the true love of God and the true love of the brethren. We should abound in love more and more as time goes on. Multiple witnesses command us to love each other, that is to say, show each other the Commandments of Christ through our walk and talk. Nothing other than this is true love. Love is a consuming fire that burns all the wood, hay and stubble out of us so only the pure remains. In the Book of Solomon, it is written that love is as strong as death and jealousy is as cruel as the grave. The Lord is a jealous God.

Rom 12:10  Be kindly affectioned one to another with brotherly love; in honour preferring one another; 

Heb 13:1 Let brotherly love continue. 

1Pe 1:22 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: 

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

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1Th 4:9  But as touching brotherly love ye need not that I write unto you: for ye yourselves are taught of God to love one another. 

1Th 4:10 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;

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1Pe 4:8 And above all things have fervent charity among yourselves: for charity shall cover the multitude of sins. 

1Jn 3:11  For this is the message that ye heard from the beginning, that we should love one another. 

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

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1Jn 4:7  Beloved, let us love one another: for love is of God; and every one that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God. 

1Jn 4:21  And this commandment have we from him, That he who loveth God love his brother also. 

2Jn 1:5  And now I beseech thee, lady, not as though I wrote a new commandment unto thee, but that which we had from the beginning, that we love one another. 

Forgiveness.

We forgive each other, which means we pray for each other so we may be healed. To pray for someone means we obey the Commandments of Christ. This is spiritual speak. Forgiveness also means to bury someone. To bury someone is to show respect, and it means we have forgiven the person. These are spiritual words. If we do not forgive, we will not be forgiven. Christ forgives us when we humble ourselves, seek His Face and turn. Godly sorrow brings forth much fruit. Without forgiveness, we perish.

2Co 2:10 To whom ye forgive any thing, I forgive also: for if I forgave any thing, to whom I forgave it, for your sakes forgave I it in the person of Christ; 

Eph 4:32 And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ’s sake hath forgiven you. 

Col 3:13 Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye. 

Confession of Sins.

We confess our sins, pray, and forgive each other. Everything coming into His marvellous Light, the Lord enlightens our darkness. Our secret sins come into the Light of His countenance, and we are being healed. We are being changed day by day into His glorious Image. In the Day of the Lord, which Day is now on our House, we see Him as He is. Today is the Day, we confess His Holy Name and turn from our wicked ways. The Lord is faithful, and He remembers our sins no more. Only believe.

Jas 5:16 Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much. 

Humility.

Assembling together, we esteem others better than ourselves and humble ourselves before God and Christ. Humility is to trust the Lord for everything as to a faithful Creator. A Proud and lofty look, which the Lord hates, is the opposite of humility. The Lord dwells with the humble of heart. We are created with the pride of life, which is our carnal reasonings, accusing and excusing within ourselves, but in the Day of the Lord, this abomination of desolation is dwelt with by the Lord through the Baptism of Fire, which destroys that wicked man of sin, sitting on the throne of our hearts, with the brightness of Christ’s coming. The Lord does not forget the cry of the humble. Christ says our hearts will live when we humble ourselves before Him. Honour is in the hand of the humble.

Php 2:3 Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves. 

Col 3:12  Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering; 

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1Pe 5:6  Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time: 

1Pe 5:7  Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you. 

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Jas 1:9  Let the brother of low degree rejoice in that he is exalted: 

Jas 1:10  But the rich, in that he is made low: because as the flower of the grass he shall pass away. 

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Holy Kiss.

A holy kiss is to greet each other with the Commandments. Here are a few examples written for us. It is a stated way to greet someone coming or going. The Beginning of this letter is an example of this, and this is a Command. We are the true Bride of Christ and do things differently than all other churches on the face of the earth. We are set apart and holy. Do not be ashamed of His Gospel, that is to say, His Commands or the prisoners of Christ. Do not deny Christ, He will deny you.

Rom 16:16 Salute one another with an holy kiss. The churches of Christ salute you. 

2Co 13:12  Greet one another with an holy kiss. 

1Th 5:26  Greet all the brethren with an holy kiss. 

1Pe 5:14  Greet ye one another with a kiss of charity. Peace be with you all that are in Christ Jesus. Amen. 

Patience.

We patiently wait for the Promise of God, the Holy Spirit, which is Christ, and make ourselves ready as His Bride. We study, our minds focused on Him, and repent of our sins and stop doing them. We have to realise that we need Him to save us from our sins and to give us life. The Lord comes in a cloud of witnesses [His angels bringing the Gospel of Christ]. He comes and reveals Himself through the Baptism of John. We ask the Lord to give us more of His Holy Spirit every day as we pray in the manner Christ taught us in the Gospels. If we have not received the Holy Spirit yet, we hope for it with great joy and great patience. Still waiting for the Coming of Christ, the mystery that was hid before the ages, but now is being made manifest, we are espoused to be married to Christ. Rejoice, what exciting times it is to wait for the Bridegroom from heaven. Be ready when He comes! He comes when you least expect Him. Being espoused to be married to Christ is a very special time; enjoy the wedding feast He has prepared for you through His appointed ones.

Act 1:4  And, being assembled together with them, commanded them that they should not depart from Jerusalem, but wait for the promise of the Father, which, saith he, ye have heard of me. 

Act 1:5 For John truly baptized with water; but ye shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost not many days hence. 

Act 1:7  And he said unto them, It is not for you to know the times or the seasons, which the Father hath put in his own power. 

Act 1:8 But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth. 

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Rom 8:24  For we are saved by hope: but hope that is seen is not hope: for what a man seeth, why doth he yet hope for? 

Rom 8:25 But if we hope for that we see not, then do we with patience wait for it.

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2Th 3:5 And the Lord direct your hearts into the love of God, and into the patient waiting for Christ. 

Heb 10:36 For ye have need of patience, that, after ye have done the will of God, ye might receive the promise. 

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Jas 5:7  Be patient therefore, brethren, unto the coming of the Lord. Behold, the husbandman waiteth for the precious fruit of the earth, and hath long patience for it, until he receive the early and latter rain. 

Jas 5:8 Be ye also patient; stablish your hearts: for the coming of the Lord draweth nigh. 

Study or Eating.

This is a parable. Eating at home means to study at home so that we do not burden the Church. Faith comes by hearing the Gospel. This is a very important Command. How is Christ going to come to you if you do not break bread, that is to say, study by yourself and study with others and with the Church? When you are in His Word, you sanctify yourself and make yourself ready. There is no other way. If you do not study at home, your poverty will surely come. Make sure you have enough oil in your lamp so that when He knocks, you may open the door for Him. Do not be like the foolish virgins. He will pass you by.

Eph 4:28  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. 

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1Th 4:11  And that ye study to be quiet, and to do your own business, and to work with your own hands, as we commanded you; 

1Th 4:12  That ye may walk honestly toward them that are without, and that ye may have lack of nothing. 

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2Th 3:10  For even when we were with you, this we commanded you, that if any would not work, neither should he eat. 

Burdens.

We bear each other’s burdens and so fulfil the Law of God. We restore each other in meekness and remember who we are. We are chief of sinners, and it is only through Christ’s mercy that we are being saved. It is a process. We are merciful to others, remembering that Christ saved us whilst yet sinners. Mercy is to open eyes and ears to see and hear. Be faithful to what the Lord has and is giving you and give to others. To bear each other’s burdens means we bear with them, when they do not understand Doctrine and when they still have many lies to cast out. Help them and be patient, as long as there is peace in that house. If there is no peace, and they receive you not, shake the dust off your feet.

Rom 15:1  We then that are strong ought to bear the infirmities of the weak, and not to please ourselves. 

Rom 15:2  Let every one of us please his neighbour for his good to edification. 

Rom 15:3  For even Christ pleased not himself; but, as it is written, The reproaches of them that reproached thee fell on me. 

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Gal 6:1  Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault, ye which are spiritual, restore such an one in the spirit of meekness; considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted. 

Gal 6:2  Bear ye one another’s burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ. 

Gal 6:3  For if a man think himself to be something, when he is nothing, he deceiveth himself. 

Gal 6:4  But let every man prove his own work, and then shall he have rejoicing in himself alone, and not in another. 

Gal 6:5  For every man shall bear his own burden. 

Gal 6:6 Let him that is taught in the word communicate unto him that teacheth in all good things. 

Weak in the Faith/Stumblingblock.

Our joy and peace are in the Set-apart Spirit of Christ [the Commandments] and not in arguing about the Word of God. Also, we are careful to maintain good works and see that our words do not make our brethren stumble. We strive not to let our good be evil spoken of. We do our very best to wait for each other. To put a stumbling block before each other is to give them meat they cannot digest. We learn to discern better and to be obedient to this Command. Nothing in Scripture, namely, all knowledge is clean [there is nothing unclean of itself], but if we do not keep to the Commandments, our meat will lead the weak astray, and also if the weak do not understand what is being said, it will become a stumbling block to that brother or sister.

Rom 14:1  Him that is weak in the faith receive ye, but not to doubtful disputations. 

Rom 14:2  For one believeth that he may eat all things: another, who is weak, eateth herbs. 

Rom 14:3  Let not him that eateth despise him that eateth not; and let not him which eateth not judge him that eateth: for God hath received him. 

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Rom 14:7  For none of us liveth to himself, and no man dieth to himself. 

Rom 14:8  For whether we live, we live unto the Lord; and whether we die, we die unto the Lord: whether we live therefore, or die, we are the Lord’s. 

Rom 14:9  For to this end Christ both died, and rose, and revived, that he might be Lord both of the dead and living. 

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Rom 14:13  Let us not therefore judge one another any more: but judge this rather, that no man put a stumblingblock or an occasion to fall in his brother’s way. 

Rom 14:14  I know, and am persuaded by the Lord Jesus, that there is nothing unclean of itself: but to him that esteemeth any thing to be unclean, to him it is unclean. 

Rom 14:15  But if thy brother be grieved with thy meat, now walkest thou not charitably. Destroy not him with thy meat, for whom Christ died. 

Look on others’ Things.

We discern spirits and situations and go two miles with those in need. We, as a Church, help each other by what each member supplies to present the Church without spot and wrinkle to Christ. We are the resurrected Church of Christ, speaking of things as if they are, and as such, we are one body, striving together for the prize of the high calling in Christ.

Php 2:4 Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others. 

Judge.

Judging is evil speaking and making us judges instead of doers of the Word. We are to wait on the Lord to make known the secrets of the heart. We teach these things and keep them in remembrance. When we speak evil of things, we say we know the outcome of a matter, making us fortune tellers and wizards before the Lord. Quietly wait on the Lord. Take thoughts captive, and the wicked one, the devil, will not touch us. Flee from the devil.

1Co 4:5  Therefore judge nothing before the time, until the Lord come, who both will bring to light the hidden things of darkness, and will make manifest the counsels of the hearts: and then shall every man have praise of God. 

Tit 3:2  To speak evil of no man, to be no brawlers, but gentle, shewing all meekness unto all men. 

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Jas 4:11  Speak not evil one of another, brethren. He that speaketh evil of his brother, and judgeth his brother, speaketh evil of the law, and judgeth the law: but if thou judge the law, thou art not a doer of the law, but a judge. 

Jas 4:12  There is one lawgiver, who is able to save and to destroy: who art thou that judgest another? 

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1Pe 2:1  Wherefore laying aside all malice, and all guile, and hypocrisies, and envies, and all evil speakings, 

Admonish.

We admonish our brethren and save a soul from death if we see them sinning a sin not unto death, pulling them out of the fire, making a difference. Exhorting, edifying, and comforting is the gift of prophecy that we all desire. To admonish one another is the true love of God, saving a soul, hating their defiled garments. Do not be afraid to admonish each other in love.

Rom 15:14  And I myself also am persuaded of you, my brethren, that ye also are full of goodness, filled with all knowledge, able also to admonish one another. 

Judge between Ourselves.

It is already a shame that we have lawsuits against each other, if and when they happen. We have to rather suffer for righteousness’ sake, doing good. However, those who are least esteemed in the Church should judge between ourselves. This is a parable, and it means we use the Commandments to judge a matter. Commandments are the least esteemed in the world of carnal reasoning and are hateful to our flesh, meaning the natural man in us cannot receive Christ. The natural man wants to wrest Christ’s judgment away.

1Co 6:4  If then ye have judgments of things pertaining to this life, set them to judge who are least esteemed in the church. 

1Co 6:5  I speak to your shame. Is it so, that there is not a wise man among you? no, not one that shall be able to judge between his brethren? 

1Co 6:6  But brother goeth to law with brother, and that before the unbelievers. 

1Co 6:7  Now therefore there is utterly a fault among you, because ye go to law one with another. Why do ye not rather take wrong? why do ye not rather suffer yourselves to be defrauded? 

Heretick.

We do not play with fire but are to reject a heretic, especially those who say Christ IS not come in the flesh. Christ IS come in the flesh, and He gives us the Power of the Holy Spirit to obey His Commandments. For some, He is near, even at the door. If they do not hear us, they are not of God; if they hear us, they are from God. A Little leaven leavens the whole lump and defiles our marriage bed.

Tit 3:10  A man that is an heretick after the first and second admonition reject; 

Tit 3:11 Knowing that he that is such is subverted, and sinneth, being condemned of himself. 

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1Jn 4:1  Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world. 

1Jn 4:2  Hereby know ye the Spirit of God: Every spirit that confesseth that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is of God: 

1Jn 4:3  And every spirit that confesseth not that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is not of God: and this is that spirit of antichrist, whereof ye have heard that it should come; and even now already is it in the world. 

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Jud 1:4 For there are certain men crept in unawares, who were before of old ordained to this condemnation, ungodly men, turning the grace of our God into lasciviousness, and denying the only Lord God, and our Lord Jesus Christ. 

Laying on Hands.

We lay hands on no man suddenly, but discern where they are in their walk with Christ. We do not give what is holy to the dogs. We encounter many who do not love God but with their lips. Do not be a partaker of their sins; remember, we do not want to be joined to sinners. Discern.

1Ti 5:22 Lay hands suddenly on no man, neither be partaker of other men’s sins: keep thyself pure. 

Son 8:4  I charge you, O daughters of Jerusalem, that ye stir not up, nor awake my love, until he please. 

Showing Partiality.

We do not judge according to our carnal minds, but rather judge righteous judgment after the Word of God. This is a parable that tells us to judge according to Christ and not to judge according to the law of Moses, the Prophets and the law of the Gentiles, which represent our carnal mindsets, accusing and excusing within ourselves. We treat the rich and poor alike in Christ because only Christ breaks down the division between the two. This is a parable. The rich are the ones with lots of knowledge; the poor are the ones with little knowledge, but they have the mind of Christ. We do not know anyone after the flesh, our judgment, but judge according to the Commandments of Christ.

1Ti 5:21 I charge thee before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, and the elect angels, that thou observe these things without preferring one before another, doing nothing by partiality. 

Jas 2:9 But if ye have respect to persons, ye commit sin, and are convinced of the law as transgressors. 

Hospitability.

We accept strangers and do not turn Gentiles away. Salvation comes to the Gentiles, too. Out in the world, there are Gentiles with the Father and Christ’s Name written on their foreheads; that is, they have the mind of Christ. They are part of us; we are one flock. We do not turn them away from our fellowship if they want to come. We give spiritually to those asking of us. Sometimes, we do not know that we entertain angels.

Rom 12:13  Distributing to the necessity of saints; given to hospitality. 

Php 4:18  But I have all, and abound: I am full, having received of Epaphroditus the things which were sent from you, an odour of a sweet smell, a sacrifice acceptable, wellpleasing to God. 

Heb 13:2  Be not forgetful to entertain strangers: for thereby some have entertained angels unawares. 

Heb 13:16  But to do good and to communicate forget not: for with such sacrifices God is well pleased.

1Pe 4:9  Use hospitality one to another without grudging.

Giving Thanks.

We give thanks for all men. Every creature is good and sanctified by the Word and the giving of thanks. There is a purpose to everything under the sun. God’s ways are higher than ours, and we have to trust Him with all things and not lean on our own understanding. The Lord’s Word do not return to Him void but will accomplish exactly what it was set out to do. We keep the sayings of the prophecy of the Book.

1Th 5:18  In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you. 

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1Ti 2:1  I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men; 

1Ti 2:2  For kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty. 

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1Ti 2:8  I will therefore that men pray every where, lifting up holy hands, without wrath and doubting. 

Gentleness.

Moderation is gentleness. Goodness, kindness, and long suffering are all fruits of the Spirit. We strive to have the fruits of the Spirit in our lives, dealing with ourselves and with others. There is a study on gentleness on the website.

Php 4:5  Let your moderation be known unto all men. The Lord is at hand. 

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2Ti 2:24  And the servant of the Lord must not strive; but be gentle unto all men, apt to teach, patient, 

2Ti 2:25  In meekness instructing those that oppose themselves; if God peradventure will give them repentance to the acknowledging of the truth; 

Rejoicing.

We rejoice in the Lord always, who saves us and is saving us from such a great spiritual death. We praise and rejoice in His Presence. He is redeeming our souls and is turning back our captivity. We rejoice in the good things the Lord has given us, we remember His holiness, we rejoice in this Day the Lord has made, the Day of the Lord. We rejoice because He is making everything new. We rejoice because He has turned our captivity and is giving us rest from our enemies.

Rom 5:11 And not only so, but we also joy in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom we have now received the atonement. 

Col 3:15  And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful.

1Th 5:16 Rejoice evermore. 

Heb 13:15 By him therefore let us offer the sacrifice of praise to God continually, that is, the fruit of our lips giving thanks to his name. 

Php 3:1  Finally, my brethren, rejoice in the Lord. To write the same things to you, to me indeed is not grievous, but for you it is safe. 

Php 4:4  Rejoice in the Lord alway: and again I say, Rejoice. 

Rejoice/Weep.

We are all one lump. We rejoice and weep with them that rejoice and with them that weep. No man lives to himself, and no man dies to himself. We all belong to the Lord.

Rom 12:15  Rejoice with them that do rejoice, and weep with them that weep. 

Prayers for the Apostles.

The Apostles need the prayers of the saints to speak the Word boldly. They watch out for the evil workers and have much to answer for. They need prayers because they are prisoners of Christ; they are in bonds. Please pray for the Apostles and fellow workers. They have much to answer to.

2Th 3:1  Finally, brethren, pray for us, that the word of the Lord may have free course, and be glorified, even as it is with you: 

2Th 3:2  And that we may be delivered from unreasonable and wicked men: for all men have not faith. 

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1Th 5:25  Brethren, pray for us. 

Heb 13:18  Pray for us: for we trust we have a good conscience, in all things willing to live honestly. 

Prayers for the Saints.

We pray for all saints that the Kingdom of Christ come into their hearts and minds. We pray for all the saints, the ones the Lord has chosen in this age, to receive the power of the Holy Spirit, for forgiveness of sins, and to walk worthily before the Lord, our God and our Father in heaven. We thank the Lord for all the saints.

Eph 6:18  Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints; 

Col 4:2  Continue in prayer, and watch in the same with thanksgiving; 

1Th 5:17  Pray without ceasing. 

Prayers for the Flock.

The Apostles pray for the little flock that is entrusted to them, that they may present every man perfect before the Lord comes, and they give thanks for the fellowship of the saints in the Gospel. They pray many more prayers for the saints. Here are a few examples.

Php 1:3  I thank my God upon every remembrance of you, 

Php 1:4  Always in every prayer of mine for you all making request with joy, 

Php 1:5  For your fellowship in the gospel from the first day until now; 

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Php 1:9  And this I pray, that your love may abound yet more and more in knowledge and in all judgment; 

Php 1:10  That ye may approve things that are excellent; that ye may be sincere and without offence till the day of Christ; 

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Col 1:3  We give thanks to God and the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, praying always for you, 

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Col 1:9  For this cause we also, since the day we heard it, do not cease to pray for you, and to desire that ye might be filled with the knowledge of his will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding; 

Col 1:10  That ye might walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing, being fruitful in every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of God; 

Prayer Requests.

The Bride of Christ makes all her prayer requests known to God. We have boldness to approach God because we keep His Commandments. We have the confidence to go beyond the veil. It is the Day of the Lord, and we are in His presence. We thank the Lord for His deliverance, and the Lord says because we trust in Him, He will help us. Make your requests known to God, but do not pray amiss to spend it on your pleasures, that is to say, pray as Christ taught you, His Will be done.

Php 4:6  Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. 

Spiritual sacrifices.

Our spiritual sacrifices are acceptable to God because they are in line with His Commandments. Our sacrifices of thanksgiving and praying are well accepted before the Lord. Praying means to be obedient to the Lord. We are a holy people unto the Lord, a peculiar people for a possession.

1Pe 2:5  Ye also, as lively stones, are built up a spiritual house, an holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices, acceptable to God by Jesus Christ. 

This is the Way and Spirit in which we strive to assemble together. The Lord has promised to give us His Kingdom. Let us be glad and rejoice in it. Our hope is in Him and Him alone. Please read about all of His Commandments on the website. It is the Bread of Life.

Psa 33:21  For our heart shall rejoice in him, because we have trusted in his holy name. 

Psa 33:22  Let thy mercy, O LORD, be upon us, according as we hope in thee.