Site Title

Touching Lives with James Merritt DAILY DEVOTIONAL EMAIL Subscribe to receive the daily devotional from Dr. James Merritt right into your inbox SUBSCRIBE Expected September 29, 2020 “…In Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” Acts 1:8 C.T. Studd once said, “The light that shines farthest shines brightest nearest home.” Christ’s words in Acts 1:8 confirm that Studd was right. After telling His followers they would be His witnesses, Jesus told them where they were to witness…in Jerusalem, Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth. As Christ’s disciples we are called to the ends of the earth…but Jesus said to start locally. Where was Jesus standing when He spoke the words found in Acts 1:8? He was standing in Jerusalem. The reason why we live where we live, work where we work, do business with who we do business with, and know who we know is because God wants us to see divine opportunities to be His witnesses right we are. Next, Jesus broadened the vision. He tells us to go beyond the local borders of where we live and go national. For the early disciples, this meant all of Judea as well as a place they did not want to go – Samaria. Samaria was the “other side of the tracks.” Because they were mixed-race people, Samaritans were looked at as non-Jewish. Perhaps for the first time, Christ’s disciples were getting a hint of the magnitude of their ministry. They were not just to witness to the Jews next door. They were to go to people throughout the country, regardless of whether they were Jews or Gentiles. But Jesus didn’t stop there. He then tells His disciples to go internationally…”to the ends of the earth.” The furthest Jesus had ever been during His ministry was 60 miles and now these disciples were being told to go to a world that they had never seen. They were to go to a people they have never met to share the Good News of salvation. This must have been mind-blowing information for them. They weren’t just commanded to go everywhere geographically; they were to go everywhere ethnically – to both Jew and Gentile. Race no longer mattered. Gender no longer mattered. Black or white, slave or free, male or female…everyone was included. This was a revolutionary mission. The same is true for us today. We do not just have a mission; we are on a mission and should be missional in everything we do. Christianity was never meant to have dividing lines. The light of Christianity was meant to be seen everywhere. The Word of the Gospel was meant to be heard everywhere. The fire of the Holy Spirit was meant to be experienced everywhere. As Christ followers, we are doing more than just following orders. We are bearing witness of the greatest love we have ever known, and of the Lord who has changed our lives. Dear Lord, thank you for giving me the mission to share my faith with others. I pray that this week you would give me the opportunity to be a light and a witness for you. Amen.  Topics: Discipleship Bible Reference Acts 1:8 But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.” About Contact Us Jobs Pastor Resources Prayer Request Privacy Policy Copyright © 2019 Touching Lives, Inc. | 1800 Satellite Blvd, Duluth, GA 30097 | United States | 770-982-0168 Touching Lives is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization

Verse of the Day ▼ Devotions ▼ Search Home Verse Of The Day John 6:44 ◄ What Does John 6:44 Mean? ► “No one can come to Me unless the Father who sent Me draws him; and I will raise him up on the last day. John 6:44(NASB) Verse Thoughts It is our Christian duty to proclaim the gospel of grace to a world that is dead in sin and without hope of salvation. However, it is not our responsibility, to save people – to get a person ‘saved’. That role is reserved for the Holy Spirit, Who is in the world to convict the unsaved sinner of sin, of righteousness, and of judgement. Every man has the choice to come into the light of the gospel or remain in spiritual darkness. We may plant seeds of truth in the heart of a sinner, and point others to Jesus, but God alone breathes life into a spiritually dead soul. He alone can cause a sinner to become a saint, through spiritual birth, and to raise him up on the last day. But the Lord will never force a man to believe against his own will. It is the Spirit of God Who causes sinners to recognise their sin, understand their need of salvation, and convict them of their unrighteousness and guilt. It is the work of the Holy Spirit to make men aware that the judgement of God awaits all who have not believed in the only begotten Son of God – but not all choose to believe the truth and be saved. While the gospel is open and available to all, not everyone who hears the truth will believe, for man is free to choose or reject the glorious gospel of grace. And in this verse, Jesus makes a very succinct and clear declaration. “No one can come to Me unless the Father who sent Me draws him – and I will raise him up on the last day.” God calls sinners to repent and gives eternal life to all who come, but man must respond to His call and some are openly hostile to the truth and object to Christ’s heavenly origin. The religious Jews of Christ’s day reflected the same attitude as their fathers in the wilderness, who murmured against the Lord and hardened their hearts to the truth. Despite the testimony of the prophet John, who condemned them as a ‘brood of religious vipers’, who refused to heed God’s call and repent of their sin, the generation who heard Christ’s teaching, were spiritually ignorant. They were blind leaders of the blind. They were proud men who refused to acknowledge the truth.  Because the Lord God had chosen Israel to be His people and had a covenant with them, the nation had become arrogant, and Christ’s teaching offended them. They considered that their earthly ancestry through Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, guaranteed them a position in God’s kingdom. They wrongly assumed that their physical genealogy was an automatic ticket into the kingdom. But righteousness is credited to those who have faith in the Anointed of God, not those who boast their physical genetics. These lost sheep of the house of Israel would not believe that Jesus was sent by God. They would not receive the truth. They refused to believe Christ’s statement, “I came down from heaven,” for to do so would acknowledge His deity. Jesus did not fulfil their incorrect perception of what the Messiah would be, and so they rejected the One Who came to seek and save them. Five thousand men had just been fed with some loaves and fishes, but they considered one meal of bread and fish was paltry compared with forty years of manna in the wilderness that their ancestors ate, and so they refused to come to Jesus. While He rebuked their grumbling attitude, Jesus did not argue His point or try to correct their erroneous thinking. He simply pointed to His own ministry which fulfilled the prophetic Scriptures and authenticated His claim. He  warned that, “No one can come to Me unless the Father who sent Me draws him, and I will raise him up on the last day.” In our fallen state, we need God to attract us to Himself, so that we can choose wisely, place our faith in Christ, and receive eternal life. Sinners of every generation come to God by believing in His WORD – JESUS, the living Word, and Scripture, His written Word. Earlier our Lord had said,  “Truly, truly, I say to you, he who hears My word, and believes Him who sent Me, has eternal life, and does not come into judgment, but has passed out of death into life.”  Sadly, many were willingly ignorant of this truth because they refused to believe God’s Word. There are also those who twist the Scriptures, by teaching that the ‘drawing’ of the Father refers to ‘irresistible grace’, which negates the doctrine of free-will and conflicts with the rest of Scripture. The reformed teaching of ‘irresistible grace’ removes man’s volition to choose or to reject God’s pull on their life. Jesus was explaining that the importance of hearing the Word of God, and responding positively to His Holy Spirit’s ministry in their life, lines up with the rest of Scripture. The Spirit of Christ draws all who will hear and believe – and He will raise us all up on the last day. May our ears be open to the Spirit of God, Who draws us to Himself with cords of love. May we remember that the same Son of God, who warmed the hearts of His disciples and drew them into His loving arms for the forgiveness of sin and life everlasting, is the same Son of God Whose purifying presence hardens rebellious hearts in an oven of pride, jealousy, and unbelief.  My Prayer Heavenly Father, it is very sobering to realise that no one comes to trust in Jesus, unless we are drawn by You into His arms of love and grace. Thank You that it is not Your will that any should perish, and for melting my heart with the sunshine of Your goodness and grace. Thank You for drawing me into Your heavenly family, through time and into the eternal ages to come. Soften the hearts of those that are walking down the broad road to destruction, by refusing to listen to Your Spirit’s convicting ministry. Look down in pity and mercy on those who refuse to be drawn to Christ, and bring them to the point of desperation, so that they call on the name of the Lord for salvation. In Jesus’ name I pray, AMEN. ◄ Previous: John 6:38 Next: John 6:55 ► Choose a Verse from John 6 1234567891011121314151617181920212223242526272829303132333435363738394041424344454647484950515253545556575859606162636465666768697071 Nehemiah 1:5 2 Timothy 2:2 1 John 2:27 1 Corinthians 15:10 Follow us John 6:44 Further Study John 6:44 in the Parallel Bible John 6:44 in the Thematic Bible John 6:44 Cross References John 6:44 Treasury of Scripture Knowing John 6:44 Sermons John 6:44 Prayers John 6:44 Images John 6:44 Devotionals Choose Chapter Subscribe to the Verse of the day Today’s Devotionals The Cost of Service 1 John 3:16 John 5:19 The Excellent Glory The Consciousness Of The Call Believe it or Not Garden Of Delight Doctrinal Statement / Privacy Policy / Use of Pictures / Donate / Contact Us © Copyright [2011 – 2020] Knowing-Jesus.com – All Rights Reserved

Verse of the Day ▼ Devotions ▼ Search Home Verse Of The Day John 10:34 ◄ What Does John 10:34 Mean? ► Jesus answered them, “Isn’t it written in your law, I said, you are gods ? John 10:34(HCSB) Verse Thoughts Christ’s discourse in John Chapter 10 thrills the heart of every child of God, for Jesus identifies Himself as the Good Shepherd, Who not only knows our name but lays down His life for the sheep. While His words rejoice our souls, they caused the Pharisees of His day great consternation. Some labelled Him as insane and demonically possessed because He called God, His Father, while others argued that He could hardly open the eyes of the blind if He were demon-possessed. Christ’s magnetic personality, His Messianic claims, and His mighty miracles, compelled the Jewish leaders to question Him further and demand proof that He was Who He claimed to be. Jesus pointed out that the mighty miracles He performed were a fulfilment of God’s Word through the prophetic Scriptures, which authenticated His Messianic claims. But when Jesus concluded by saying, “I and the Father are ONE,” their animosity against Him erupted because that statement made Jesus equal with God. Jesus was not simply saying God has sent Me – but He was One with God the Father and equal with Him in nature, character, will, authority, and power. Their fury against Christ was not because of His good works but for blasphemy – because being a man, He made Himself out to be God. It was at this point that Jesus asked them a clever, rabbinically-styled question, “Has it not been written in your Law, ‘I said, you are gods’?” Jesus argued. “If He called them ‘gods’, to whom the word of God came (and the Scripture cannot be broken), do you say of ME, whom the Father sanctified and sent into the world, ‘You are blaspheming,’ because I said, ‘I am the Son of God’?” Jesus used the Scripture, which cannot be broken, to silence their argument. God’s Word cannot be set aside when it conflicts with man’s flawed thinking and Jesus challenged their attitude toward Him like an educated rabbi. He quoted Psalm 82, where the judges of Israel were labelled by the Lord as ‘gods’. Jesus pointed out that these men, whom God chose to judge His people were all sinners… and if they could be labelled ‘god’ by the Father, surely Jesus, Himself, Whom the Father sanctified, and set apart for this Messianic role should also be able to call Himself the Son of God, without any argument! Far from being a human appointee who was selected to judge Israel, Jesus was the incarnate God. Jesus was not comparing Himself with the imperfect lawgivers of the Old Testament but demonstrating that as God in the flesh – He had every right to declare the truth, and claim that He and the Father were ONE – for He is the visible image of the invisible God. And although the Pharisees clearly understood that Jesus was claiming to be deity – He exposed their ignorance and silenced their accusations. In quoting this verse, Jesus was clearly showing a difference between 1) the corrupt judges of Israel in the old dispensation of Law, who judged unjustly and showed partiality to the wicked – who will themselves be judged by God, and 2) the Lord Jesus, Who came from heaven to lay the groundwork for the new dispensation of Grace, and die on the Cross for the sin of the world. The Word of God came to earth in human form as the Lord Jesus Christ – Whom the Father appointed Heir of all things, and through Whom also He made the worlds – and as the perfect Son of Man He is also the eternal Son of God. There are many today who twist Scriptures, like Psalm 82, to feed their own prideful blasphemy. They foolishly believe themselves to be spiritually enlightened and developing into little gods. Sadly, such folk have bought into the same satanic lie Eve believed in the garden of Eden – “you shall be as God.” But this Psalm was not referring to all people or even to all believers. This referred to a minority of fallen men, whom the Lord used, in former days, to judge His people, Israel. Christ’s claim, to be equal with the Father, infuriated the Pharisees of His day and continues to offend the majority of today’s unsaved world. The exclusivity of the gospel of grace is deeply offensive to all who do not believe. However, for those who believe, this passage contains some glorious truths that comfort the soul and encourage the heart. Jesus is indeed One with the Father and as such, His Word is true and His promises are sure. Jesus is the incarnate Word, Who came to earth from His Father’s throne to show us Who God is and how deeply He loves us. Jesus is truly the Son of God and God the Son, Who chose to die for the sin of the world, as the Son of Man – so that whosoever believes on Him would not perish but have everlasting life. Praise His holy name. My Prayer Heavenly Father, thank You that Jesus is one with You in nature, character, will, authority, and power… for only He is good enough to pay the price for my sin. Thank You that He is the incarnate God Who became the Son of Man, so that He could die on the Cross for the sin of the world. More and more I see how truly offensive the exclusivity of the Gospel is to those who do not believe. Thank You for sending Your Holy Spirit to convict me of my sin, of righteousness, and of judgement. Thank You that by faith in Him, I have been transferred from the kingdom of darkness into the kingdom of Your dear Son. Open the eyes of those who have been blinded by Satan, so that they too may see the truth and turn to the Lord Jesus for the forgiveness of sin, in Whom are the words of eternal life. This I ask in Jesus’ precious name, AMEN. ◄ Previous: John 10:30 Next: John 10:36 ► Choose a Verse from John 10 123456789101112131415161718192021222324252627282930313233343536373839404142 Proverbs 2:1 Ephesians 6:14 2 Corinthians 2:15 Romans 1:18 Follow us John 10:34 Further Study John 10:34 in the Parallel Bible John 10:34 in the Thematic Bible John 10:34 Cross References John 10:34 Treasury of Scripture Knowing John 10:34 Sermons John 10:34 Prayers John 10:34 Images Choose Chapter Subscribe to the Verse of the day Today’s Devotionals Pure Bread Numbers 6:27 Psalm 19:1 Accusation The “Go” Of Unconditional Identification New Order of Man What Love ? Doctrinal Statement / Privacy Policy / Use of Pictures / Donate / Contact Us © Copyright [2011 – 2020] Knowing-Jesus.com – All Rights Reserved ×

Toggle navigation Search Browse The Bible Toggle Dropdown Search The Bible Find it! Is Jeremiah Right That Nothing Is Too Hard for God? Bible / Bible Study / Topical Studies Share Tweet Save Hope Bolinger Sunday, September 27, 2020 “I am the Lord, the God of all mankind. Is anything too hard for me?” (Jeremiah 32:27). This verse introduces readers to a couple of important topics. First, God is God over all mankind. That means we cannot place any god or idol in front of him and our worship of him. Second, he asks if anything is too hard for him. This implies no, nothing is.  But this may draw readers back to their Philosophy 101 class where a professor asked, “Can God create a rock large enough that he cannot move?” Can God really do everything? What does God imply in this verse?  We’ll dive into the context and meaning of this verse and try to uncover the age-old question: Can God really do anything?  Photo credit: Unsplash/Lina Trochez What Does This Verse Mean? The Lord speaks to the prophet Jeremiah in this verse. In a moment, we will discuss the bigger picture of what happened in Jeremiah 32, including the capture of Jerusalem by the Babylonians. According to John Gill’s Commentary, God says this verse as a comfort and assurance during a tumultuous time. Other versions of the verse, such as the Syriac translation, also imply that nothing can hinder God’s prophecies or things he sets to fulfill. In other words, nothing can disrupt God’s plan. If he intends for something to happen, it will.  We also must bear in mind the life and trials of Jeremiah, often a prophet standing alone in his faith and belief. In these verses, God assures him that Jeremiah can have full confidence in Him, and that his belief did not go in vain.  But what happened in Jeremiah 32 as a whole that he had to go to God in a desperate plea and prayer?  What Is Happening in Jeremiah 32? Israel has messed up big time, and for the last time. They would soon be taken over by the Babylonians and taken into a seventy-year captivity for their unfaithfulness, their lust after other gods, and their trust in other nations such as Egypt instead of in God. Nevertheless, although the Israelites would experience God’s wrath, God’s judgment here doesn’t last forever. God has Jeremiah build a field to symbolize that the people would again return to their land and restore it. God makes mention of his power in these verses to assure the Israelites he intends to fulfill his plan. Photo credit: ©SparrowStock Does Translation Impact the Meaning? As we mentioned before, the Syriac translation slightly nuances the meaning of the verses to apply to prophecies. But what about our modern translations? Do they all differ in meaning of the verse? We’ll put five popular translations of the verse below and compare them. “Behold, I am the LORD, the God of all flesh: is there any thing too hard for me?” (KJV) “I am the Lord, the God of all mankind. Is anything too hard for me?” (NIV) “See, I am the Lord, the God of all flesh; is anything too hard for me?” (NRSV) “Behold, I am the LORD, the God of all flesh. Is anything too hard for me?” (ESV) “Behold, I am the LORD, the God of all flesh; is anything too difficult for Me?” (NASB) It appears that all the modern translations of this verse are nearly identical. “Flesh” tends to mean humanity. Apart from that word, they almost copy each other word-for-word. Let’s analyze the Jewish Tanakh of this verse and the Septuagint to see if we spot any differences. “Behold, I am the Lord, the God of all flesh. Is anything concealed from Me?” (Tanakh, Nevi’im, Yirmiyah) “I am the Lord, the God of all flesh: shall anything be hidden from me!” (Septuagint) These translations add the nuance that nothing can be hidden from God. The phrase “too hard” or “hidden” comes from the Hebrew word “pala”. This means “wonderful,” “marvelous,” or “too difficult to understand.” With this translation of the word in mind, all translations of the Bible seem to agree with this verse. Photo credit: ©Getty Images/Halfpoint Can God Do ANYTHING? Let’s bring the discussion back to that Philosophy 101 class. Does God have limits on what he can do? And what exactly does omnipotence mean? Scripture does seem to affirm God’s all-powerful nature (Psalm 115:3, Genesis 18:4), but does this mean he can create a rock he cannot move? Could God commit suicide, as some philosophy professors suggest? When people ask questions like this, they tend to miss out on the true definition of omnipotence.  First, we have to take God’s character into consideration. God is holy and good. This means he cannot do something such as lie or do “any immoral action,” writes John M. Frame for the Gospel Coalition. Some people may argue that this forms an omnipotent paradox. But, explains Roger Patterson for Answers in Genesis, if God lied, God would not be God.  Second, as addressing the absurd questions like “can God make a square circle?” we must understand God created physical laws which govern the universe. When we ask God to make a rock he cannot lift or a square circle, we ask him to move outside the very laws which he set in place in our universe. Also, it seems like a tad ridiculous of a request for God to act outside of his character, including creating contradictions.  For those who may argue he did contradictions when he completed miracles, check out this Gospel Coalition article to combat Hume’s views on miracles.  With this in mind, we understand God’s omnipotence to be not only power over the universe, but the power that sustains the universe. In him and through him, we have life. God stays true to his character and does not act in contradiction to it. Because if he did, he would not be God.  Photo credit: Unsplash/Prince David How Can We Trust God with Even Our Big Problems? We can trust God with our bigger problems because we know he is bigger than them. No matter what temptations or trials we face, we can place them into God’s hands and know he has a plan for us amidst times of pain, loss, or frustration. Through his power, God forms a place of safety for us, a fortress.  As we learn in the Jeremiah verse, nothing is too difficult nor hidden from God. Satan cannot hatch a scheme that can go around God’s plan. Even the demons have to ask permission before they can do anything (Luke 22:31).  Indeed, if God has the ultimate power, we can trust him with even our most difficult of problems.  We Serve an Omnipotent God As we discovered in Jeremiah 32:27, the Israelites desperately needed something to hope for and look forward too as the Babylonians destroyed their city and took them into captivity. God assures both the prophet and his people that he will restore them to their land, and not even the Babylonians can overturn his plan.  Omnipotence, as we discovered, means God can exercise ultimate power and sustain everything in the universe, but he still makes sure to act within his character. If he went against his character or contradicted himself, he would not be God.  In the same way, when life overwhelms us, we know we have an omnipotent God who is bigger than our problems. Related articles 5 Things God Can’t Do 4 Beautiful Truths about Who God Is Does God Love … Everyone? Photo credit: Unsplash/Ben White Hope Bolinger is a literary agent at C.Y.L.E. and a graduate of Taylor University’s professional writing program. More than 600 of her works have been featured in various publications ranging from Writer’s Digest to Keys for Kids. She has worked for various publishing companies, magazines, newspapers, and literary agencies and has edited the work of authors such as Jerry B. Jenkins and Michelle Medlock Adams. Her column “Hope’s Hacks,” tips and tricks to avoid writer’s block, reaches 6,000+ readers weekly and is featured monthly on Cyle Young’s blog. Her modern-day Daniel, Blaze, (Illuminate YA) Den (releasing July 2020), Dear Hero (releasing September 2020), and Dear Henchman (releasing 2021)  Find out more about her at her website. Popular Articles Is Jeremiah Right That Nothing Is Too Hard for God? Hope Bolinger 8 Unsolved Mysteries in the Bible Aaron Brown What Is Gluttony, and Is it a Sin? Bethany Verrett 4 Powerful Reasons to Proclaim ‘God Is My Banner!’ Today Becky Harling 8 Steps to Take When Reading the Bible Feels Boring Ruth Clemence How Can “This Is the Day the Lord Has Made” Encourage Trust and Hope? Jeannie Myers Featured Verse Topics Healing Bible Verses Worry and Anxiety Bible Verses Prayer Bible Verses Bible Verses for Overcoming Grief Comforting Bible Verses Bible Verses About Protection God’s Promises – Verses in the Bible Bible Verses For Faith in Hard Times Encouraging Bible Verses Hope Bible Verses Friendship Bible Verses Forgiveness Bible Verses Strength Bible Verses Love Bible Verses Inspirational Bible Verses About Online Bible Sitemap Link to Us Advertise with Us Feedback Proud member of Salem Media Group. Copyright © 2020, Bible Study Tools. All rights reserved. Article Images Copyright © 2020 Getty Images unless otherwise indicated. California – Do Not Sell My Personal Information  California – CCPA Notice

Verse of the Day ▼ Devotions ▼ Search Home Verse Of The Day Romans 6:4 ◄ What Does Romans 6:4 Mean? ► Therefore we have been buried with Him through baptism into death, so that as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, so we too might walk in newness of life. Romans 6:4(NASB) Sponsored by Advertising Partner Sponsored Video Watch to learn more Verse Thoughts There are many mysteries of our new life in Christ that are hard to understand, which remain a reality in the life of all who believe, and Paul’s illustration of a believer’s ‘death to sin’ through their ‘baptism into Christ’ is a difficult concept to grasp, while remaining a glorious truth in which to rejoice. “WE have been buried with HIM through baptism into death… so that just as CHRIST was raised from the dead, through the glory of the Father, so WE TOO might walk in newness of life.” But why? Why should sinners, such as us, be so blessed? As members of the human race, every one of us was ‘IN ADAM’ when he walked in the garden, six thousand years ago, because we are his physical offspring. Because of our lineage with Adam, the federal head of humanity, we are identified with his sin in Eden. As his physical descendants, Adam’s sin in the garden became our sin, for we are all imputed with Adam’s sin at birth. So how? How can we walk in newness of life? Well, as members of God’s family by faith, every believer was ‘IN CHRIST’ when He hung on the Cross and died – just as we were ‘In Adam’ when he sinned in the garden. Spiritually speaking, were ‘in Him’, when he was buried, and rose again from the dead, for we are His spiritual offspring. Because of our heritage in Christ, we were identified with Him when we were born-again. We were imputed with His righteousness, when we were ‘baptised’, by the Holy Spirit, into God’s new creation in Christ. Baptism means to ‘place into’. It means to ‘immerse in something’, or ‘cover over with’… and when we were saved we were ‘immersed in Christ’. Being baptised with the Holy Spirit is to be immersed in the Holy Spirit, just as being baptised with water, as a declaration of our faith means being immersed in water. Sometimes we have to face a baptism of suffering, where we are surrounded by suffering and pain, and those who do not believe in Christ, will eventually be baptised with the fires of judgement.  At salvation, we were all ‘baptised in Christ’s BODY’, which is the Church, which identifies us with His righteousness. At salvation, we were immersed in His righteousness – covered in His righteousness. But this verse tells us, “we have been buried with Him through baptism into death..” Why should we be identified with His death? The answer is that the wages of sin is death, which means separation from God. Only a sinless person can escape the jaws of death. We were imputed with sin from the beginning. We were born in sin, and have committed sin. We have all sinned and fallen short of God’s glory. But Christ, the only sinless Man, chose to pay the price of OUR sin through HIS death… so that ALL His spiritual offspring – all who believe in Him – all who are baptised into Him, would not have to die for our sin, but be identified with His perfect righteousness. There are many mysteries of our new life in Christ that are hard to understand, but this one staggers the mind. God the Son, was born into the human race as the sinless Son of Man, so HE could identify with US – and WE could be identified with Him! He willingly died on the Cross to pay the price for OUR sin, so that HIS death becomes our death and His burial becomes our burial, “and as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, so we too might be raised and walk in newness of life.” Death had no hold on Christ because He was perfect. He CHOSE to be born as a perfect Man and live a sinless life, so that as His spiritual offspring – who might be born into this world thousands of years later, would be identified with His death – would be baptised into His DEATH. The reason we are baptised into His DEATH is so that we could also be baptised into His LIFE. Christ was RAISED through the glory of the Father, so that we, His spiritual children, might also live in newness of life, and not have to live by the letter of the law. WOW! In reality, there are two ways to be saved!! 1) Keep the letter of the LAW perfectly, which is impossible for fallen man, or 2) Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ so that HIS death becomes our death, His burial becomes our burial, and His resurrected life becomes our new resurrected life. This is indeed a mystery that is hard to grasp. but a glorious truth in which to rejoice. But why? Why should we be so blessed? WHY should the eternal Son of God, become a Man and live a sinless life, only to be despised, rejected, falsely accused, and nailed to a cross to pay the price for MY sin and YOURS too? Well, the answer is simple – it is because of GRACE – God’s amazing GRACE. For by GRACE you have been saved. You have not been saved because of anything that YOU have done. It is through God’s grace. It has nothing to do with you or me. It is a free and unmerited gift of God that is given to ALL who believe in Christ. The blessings we receive by being identified with Christs’s death, burial, and Resurrection are enormous – indeed they are eternal. “Therefore, we have been buried with Him through baptism into His death, so that in the same way that Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of God the Father, so we too will be raised into eternal life and walk in newness of His life.” My Prayer Heavenly Father, I stand amazing at Your plan of redemption – that just as I am identified with Adam and imputed with his sin because I am his physical offspring, so I am identified with Christ and imputed with His righteousness because I am His spiritual seed, by faith. Thank You that because I have trusted Him for my salvation, I have become identified with His death and burial. Thank You that His death, burial, and Resurrection, has become my death to sin – so that I too might be raised into newness of life, through the glory of the Father. I stand amazed at Your wisdom and grace, and offer this prayer of thanksgiving and praise, in the precious name of Jesus, AMEN. ◄ Previous: Romans 6:3 Next: Romans 6:5 ► Choose a Verse from Romans 6 1234567891011121314151617181920212223 Jeremiah 2:4 2 Peter 2:4 Mark 10:14 Amos 4:12 Follow us Romans 6:4 Further Study Romans 6:4 in the Parallel Bible Romans 6:4 in the Thematic Bible Romans 6:4 Cross References Romans 6:4 Treasury of Scripture Knowing Romans 6:4 Sermons Romans 6:4 Prayers Romans 6:4 Images Romans 6:4 Devotionals Choose Chapter Subscribe to the Verse of the day Today’s Devotionals Spiritual Enlargement 1 Peter 5:6 Genesis 3:1 Support, Not Relief The “Go” Of Renunciation Salvation By Grace Through Faith A True Witness Doctrinal Statement / Privacy Policy / Use of Pictures / Donate / Contact Us © Copyright [2011 – 2020] Knowing-Jesus.com – All Rights Reserved

Verse of the Day ▼ Devotions ▼ Search Home Verse Of The Day Genesis 27:29 ◄ What Does Genesis 27:29 Mean? ► May peoples serve you, And nations bow down to you; Be master of your brothers, And may your mother’s sons bow down to you Cursed be those who curse you, And blessed be those who bless you.” Genesis 27:29(NASB) Picture courtesy of Sweet Publishing Verse Thoughts Isaac thought he was about to die and decided it was time to put his house in order, by declaring his last will and testament. From the time of their birth, Isaac had always favoured Esau, his older son, over his twin brother, Jacob. Esau was a manly individual who had great hunting skills and often prepared the most delicious dishes with the wild game he caught and killed. Yes Isaac favoured Esau over Jacob and determined to give him his blessing. However, rather than making it a family affair, Isaac quietly instructed his favourite son to go and catch some game, and to prepare a plate of his delicious, home-made venison, after which he would bestow on him, his blessing. However, Rebekah overheard the conversation and set about conspiring with their younger son, to deceive Isaac into giving his blessing to Jacob instead of Esau. Esau was a man who proudly boasted of his self-reliance and independence from God through the life he lived, the choices he made, and the pagan wives he married. He had already shown utter contempt for his birthright as the firstborn  son, by selling it to Jacob, in exchange for a bowl of stew – and in the book of Hebrews we read that Esau despised his birthright. No doubt, Isaac remembered the prophecy given to Rebekah, during her difficulty pregnancy… that Jacob, their younger twin son had been chosen by God to be pre-eminent in the family. It was through Jacob, and not Easu, that the promised Seed of Abraham was to be born. It was Jacob, not Esau who was to take the family reigns of responsibility from his father, but Isaac dismissed God’s command and chose to bless the son of his own choice, rather than being obedient to the Lord. And so, dressed in Esau’s clothes and having disguised his appearance, Jacob lied to his father and receive the most beautiful blessing that was rightfully his, “Now may God give you of the dew of heaven, and of the fatness of the earth, and an abundance of grain and new wine. May peoples serve you, and nations bow down to you. You are to to be master of your brothers, and may your mother’s sons bow down to you. Cursed be those who curse you, and blessed be those who bless you.” Considering that he thought he was giving his blessing to Esau, the firstborn son, instead of the child God had chosen, demonstrates the shocking decline in Isaac’s spiritual walk with the Lord. Isaac thought that his secret pact with Esau was outsmarting the Lord, but the blessing he bestowed on his younger son, made Jacob, not Esau the spiritual head of the family. To Jacob and not Esau was given the blessing that would pass from generation to generation. The blessing Isaac pronounced overflowed with fruitfulness and many blessings. It was a benediction that had its roots in the unconditional promise the Lord gave to Abraham, through whom all the families of the earth were to be blessed, and is reflected in the blessing that Jacob himself, passed on to his own sons and their offspring, many years later. The blessing Jacob received from his father covered an abundance of food at harvest times and a plentiful supply of drink, but in reality, the blessing he gave to Jacob came from God, and confirmed the things that the Lord had promised to Abraham – first through Isaac, and then through Jacob – just as the prophecy given to his mother stated – “two nations are in your womb; two peoples will come from your body and the older shall serve the younger.” As one reads on in the story, it is evident that Isaac was shocked to realise that he had blessed the ‘wrong’ son – but God’s plans and purposes will never be thwarted by any man, nor by any angelic beings, and Jacob was God’s choice. God had chosen Jacob and was well able to bring about all that He purposed for him. In His grace the Lord used the subterfuge of Rebekah and the lies of Jacob to overturn Isaac’s secretive plans and fulfil His own, perfect will. But how sad that these two people did not trust God to carry out His perfect plan, without their human interference or ungodly deception. As we reflect on the foolish mistakes and selfish attitudes this family made in their relationship with one another, together with their disregard for God’s almighty power and great wisdom – we can see that the sovereign will of God will always come to pass, irrespective of who tries to oppose Him. We can also be grateful that in His grace, He can even use our wrong actions and foolish choices to fulfil His plans. May we be ready and willing to listen to His voice, believe His Word, and submit willingly to His will, and may we always remember that His ways are higher than our ways and be careful to say, “Thy will not mine be done.” My Prayer Heavenly Father, thank You for your goodness and grace to me and to all people. Thank You for Your amazing plan of redemption, which You brought to completion through the sacrificial offering of the lovely Lord Jesus Christ. I praise You for the Scriptures that help us to understand how You used Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, and the nation of Israel, to bring forth the promised Seed, Who defeated sin, Satan, death, and hell, on Calvary’s Cross. I pray that You would bring to fruition all that You purposed to do through Israel, and protect them from those that seek their destruction. I also pray that You would bring to fruition all that You have purposed in my life. This I ask in Jesus’ name, AMEN. Picture courtesy of Sweet Publishing ◄ Previous: Genesis 27:7 Next: Genesis 28:15 ► Choose a Verse from Genesis 27 12345678910111213141516171819202122232425262728293031323334353637383940414243444546 John 12:46 2 Timothy 1:13 John 7:46 Romans 6:22 Follow us Genesis 27:29 Further Study Genesis 27:29 in the Parallel Bible Genesis 27:29 in the Thematic Bible Genesis 27:29 Cross References Genesis 27:29 Treasury of Scripture Knowing Genesis 27:29 Sermons Genesis 27:29 Prayers Genesis 27:29 Images Choose Chapter Subscribe to the Verse of the day Today’s Devotionals The Key to Faith Deuteronomy 32:4 1 Corinthians 15:54 Spirit Spirituality The Unblameable Attitude Believing and Repentance What Grace ? Doctrinal Statement / Privacy Policy / Use of Pictures / Donate / Contact Us © Copyright [2011 – 2020] Knowing-Jesus.com – All Rights Reserved

Cohabitation vs. Traditional Marriage

This is a report on the advantages and disadvantages between cohabitation and a traditional marriage. Let’s look at what are the two as a whole. The definition of cohabitation is when two people either male or a female live together inside of one house. On the other hand, both men and women can live together for one common purpose. It is based on necessity and its sole purpose is to survive by putting all of your resources together and maintain a specific place to live. If it applies to non-married couples, the only thing that is accomplished is the bills are getting paid. For example, the utilities, food, and rent are being paid by someone who has income coming from a specific source. On the other, anyone at any age usually cohabitate as a means of testing the waters.

This is to determine whether the person that they are currently living with is suitable for marriage. This is done on a trial and error basis. Anyone who agree with cohabitation as a means to figure out whether this person is a candidate for marriage, then good luck!!!! As far as a traditional marriage is concerned, it is when a man and woman who has done things the right way, and they are ready to settle down and join a life partnership. A certificate from the state of which the union has been official is required. It does require a great deal of planning and responsibility when it comes to both men and women.

Some people pay for their own wedding all by themselves.

There are others who would prefer to have others to assist in this process. A wedding planner or ministers of a church are examples of people who will assist in this process. We are not saying that family members could not help. It varies according to how family members accept the bride or groom as a member of the family.

 Now each member of a cohabitated family household as well as a traditional marriage must have some financial stability. This means that each member of the household must carry their own weight on a financial basis. You cannot have one person carrying the full load all by themselves. If this is the case, then you will have conflict inside of the residence. This is not a laughing matter. This is because women are stronger than men when it comes to maintaining a specific household.  This is because they are organized and straight to the point when it comes to paying bills as well as buying food. Women are better planners when it comes to dealing with childcare, but they cannot do it all by themselves.

 This is the reason why men should be able to keep up when it comes to learning how to listen to women. If not, then a man who does not know how to manage the affairs of a household and children will always have trouble. This is because some men tend to allow women to pay for all of the bills and they also are controlling inside of a cohabitated or a traditional marriage environment.  For more information about this, try looking into your law enforcement statistics as well as issues pertaining to domestic violence. This is not to say that there is not any equilibrium or equality inside of the household. Therefore, good communication skills are necessary when it comes to maintaining a household of any kind. It is always very important to understand that there are more women and men who have decided to try the cohabitation method.

Why is this, this is because it is much easier on them than getting married.

This is simply because an average person will have to find out how you are personally before they will decide to get married. This is the feeling out process. It is a feeling out process because it enables men and women to find out all about each other. Like they say, you have to find out what is sand from soil. If a person does not know the difference between sand and soil then this is a problem. Traditional marriages are not lasting very long for young people between the ages of 18 to 40. The reason why is because there is a breakdown in communication and there are times that both men and women hold on to emotional baggage from the past. If there is baggage from the past, then it is very difficult for couples to have a successful relationship.

Men and women are different when it comes to communication in the first place. If a man is afraid to share with his spouse or significant other about his personal feelings, then there is a problem. This means that his ego is inside of his body and he is hiding his true self. A man’s ego is like a cage that he tends to hide inside of whenever there is a conflict inside of the home. Men on the other hand are supposed to become leaders inside of an average cohabitation or traditional marriage household.

If he is not a leader, then why is a woman so reluctant allowing him to spread his wings and fly? I guess women tend to fear that they cannot find another man to replace the one that was lost. This is an insecurity on their part because like they say, people can do things all by themselves.

People will have to become secure within yourself. By becoming secure, this means to gain confidence and become more responsible for your own actions as an adult. Cohabitation has its disadvantages, by saying this; it means that men and women might not get married in the first place. There is not a purpose. You are just living inside of a home and paying the bills. What do you have to share with each other? I guess nothing much!!! What are you intentions in your cohabitated home environment? Evaluate yourself as a person and ask your spouse or significant other to do the same.

Disadvantages in a traditional marriage are unemployment, a lack of childcare resources, extreme poverty, and breakdown in communication between husbands and wives, as well as active addiction issues. In a traditional marriage, men and women refuse to be honest with each other about their personal needs. This also applies to a cohabitation environment. There is so much dishonesty and a lack of harmony that it causes men and women to separate and go their own separate ways.

Departure is extremely difficult in cohabitation and a traditional home environment. If men and women are not honest and truthful from the very start, then problems will arise and there will never be a purpose or a set foundation for success in any of these relationships. Cohabitation and a traditional marriage is really what you make of it.

 If your life at the present is not up to your expectations, then try attending church and request for God’s help. It is God who provides us with the air that we breathe each day. It is God who gives us our life and bless us with the people who we choose to share our life with. God Bless You!!!

Cohabitation vs. Traditional Marriage

This is a report on the advantages and disadvantages between cohabitation and a traditional marriage. Let’s look at what are the two as a whole. The definition of cohabitation is when two people either male or a female live together inside of one house. On the other hand, both men and women can live together for one common purpose. It is based on necessity and its sole purpose is to survive by putting all of your resources together and maintain a specific place to live. If it applies to non-married couples, the only thing that is accomplished is the bills are getting paid. For example, the utilities, food, and rent are being paid by someone who has income coming from a specific source. On the other, anyone at any age usually cohabitate as a means of testing the waters.

This is to determine whether the person that they are currently living with is suitable for marriage. This is done on a trial and error basis. Anyone who agree with cohabitation as a means to figure out whether this person is a candidate for marriage, then good luck!!!! As far as a traditional marriage is concerned, it is when a man and woman who has done things the right way, and they are ready to settle down and join a life partnership. A certificate from the state of which the union has been official is required. It does require a great deal of planning and responsibility when it comes to both men and women.

Some people pay for their own wedding all by themselves.

There are others who would prefer to have others to assist in this process. A wedding planner or ministers of a church are examples of people who will assist in this process. We are not saying that family members could not help. It varies according to how family members accept the bride or groom as a member of the family.

 Now each member of a cohabitated family household as well as a traditional marriage must have some financial stability. This means that each member of the household must carry their own weight on a financial basis. You cannot have one person carrying the full load all by themselves. If this is the case, then you will have conflict inside of the residence. This is not a laughing matter. This is because women are stronger than men when it comes to maintaining a specific household.  This is because they are organized and straight to the point when it comes to paying bills as well as buying food. Women are better planners when it comes to dealing with childcare, but they cannot do it all by themselves.

 This is the reason why men should be able to keep up when it comes to learning how to listen to women. If not, then a man who does not know how to manage the affairs of a household and children will always have trouble. This is because some men tend to allow women to pay for all of the bills and they also are controlling inside of a cohabitated or a traditional marriage environment.  For more information about this, try looking into your law enforcement statistics as well as issues pertaining to domestic violence. This is not to say that there is not any equilibrium or equality inside of the household. Therefore, good communication skills are necessary when it comes to maintaining a household of any kind. It is always very important to understand that there are more women and men who have decided to try the cohabitation method.

Why is this, this is because it is much easier on them than getting married.

This is simply because an average person will have to find out how you are personally before they will decide to get married. This is the feeling out process. It is a feeling out process because it enables men and women to find out all about each other. Like they say, you have to find out what is sand from soil. If a person does not know the difference between sand and soil then this is a problem. Traditional marriages are not lasting very long for young people between the ages of 18 to 40. The reason why is because there is a breakdown in communication and there are times that both men and women hold on to emotional baggage from the past. If there is baggage from the past, then it is very difficult for couples to have a successful relationship.

Men and women are different when it comes to communication in the first place. If a man is afraid to share with his spouse or significant other about his personal feelings, then there is a problem. This means that his ego is inside of his body and he is hiding his true self. A man’s ego is like a cage that he tends to hide inside of whenever there is a conflict inside of the home. Men on the other hand are supposed to become leaders inside of an average cohabitation or traditional marriage household.

If he is not a leader, then why is a woman so reluctant allowing him to spread his wings and fly? I guess women tend to fear that they cannot find another man to replace the one that was lost. This is an insecurity on their part because like they say, people can do things all by themselves.

People will have to become secure within yourself. By becoming secure, this means to gain confidence and become more responsible for your own actions as an adult. Cohabitation has its disadvantages, by saying this; it means that men and women might not get married in the first place. There is not a purpose. You are just living inside of a home and paying the bills. What do you have to share with each other? I guess nothing much!!! What are you intentions in your cohabitated home environment? Evaluate yourself as a person and ask your spouse or significant other to do the same.

Disadvantages in a traditional marriage are unemployment, a lack of childcare resources, extreme poverty, and breakdown in communication between husbands and wives, as well as active addiction issues. In a traditional marriage, men and women refuse to be honest with each other about their personal needs. This also applies to a cohabitation environment. There is so much dishonesty and a lack of harmony that it causes men and women to separate and go their own separate ways.

Departure is extremely difficult in cohabitation and a traditional home environment. If men and women are not honest and truthful from the very start, then problems will arise and there will never be a purpose or a set foundation for success in any of these relationships. Cohabitation and a traditional marriage is really what you make of it.

 If your life at the present is not up to your expectations, then try attending church and request for God’s help. It is God who provides us with the air that we breathe each day. It is God who gives us our life and bless us with the people who we choose to share our life with. God Bless You!!!

Toggle navigation Search Browse The Bible Toggle Dropdown Search The Bible Find it! 5 Important Lessons from Jacob’s Wrestling Match with God Bible / Bible Study / Topical Studies Share Tweet Save Melanie Campbell Writer Thursday, September 24, 2020 I love the Old Testament. The stories within its pages provide timeless, multi-layered lessons for God’s people. One such story is Jacob’s wrestling with God, found in Genesis 32:22-32. In this short passage, there are key points we can apply to our own lives. Let’s take a look at the significance of this story and how it relates to our walk with God. Photo credit: ©Getty Images/allanswart How Did Jacob End Up Wrestling God? Before we can really understand the significance of Jacob’s wrestling match, we should review his life up to that point. Jacob was the son of Isaac and Rachel, and the grandson of Abraham, whom God promised to make a father of many nations. Jacob had a twin brother, Esau, who was the first-born, but Jacob grabbed him by the heel during their birth. The name Jacob means “the Supplanter” or “to grab another’s heel.” Literally speaking, it means to take what belongs to someone else. God even told Rebekah that her older son would serve the younger. When Jacob and Esau were grown, Jacob tricked his brother out of his birthright with a meal. Later, Rebekah conspired with Jacob to trick Isaac and steal Esau’s blessing. This resulted in Esau wanting to kill his younger brother, so Jacob fled. On his journey to his mother’s homeland, he had a vision of angels and a ladder to heaven. When Jacob reaches Haran, he meets his match in his uncle Laban. Though Jacob is in love with Laban’s younger daughter, Rachel, he is tricked into marrying her older sister, Leah. Jacob persists, however, and is finally able to marry the object of his affections. Jacob worked many years for Laban. Because of God’s protection and Jacob’s intelligence, Jacob was able to take much of Laban’s herd for himself. Finally, God directs Jacob to return to the land of his father. The problem with that is it means Jacob will have to face Esau. Will his brother’s rage still burn after all of these years? As he approaches home, Jacob sends messengers to Esau. They return to tell him that Esau is approaching them with 400 men. Things don’t look good for Jacob. He strategically divides his people and possessions and sends them across the Jabbok river. He stays behind and prays. It is then that he encounters a man whom he wrestles with through the night. The man injures Jacob’s hip, but still, Jacob will not let go until the man blesses him. Jacob knew that he wasn’t wrestling a man, but God himself, and refused to let go until He blessed him. Jacob names the place where the wrestling match happened “Peniel” which means “Face of God.” Here are five lessons we can learn from Jacob’s wrestling match with God. Photo credit: ©Getty Images/Jeff Randall 1. We Need Forgiveness, and it Only Comes by the Mercy of God Jacob was guilty of what he did to Esau—and he knew it. Up until this point, Jacob had relied on his own wits for his success, but now he didn’t know what would happen. His survival was dependent on his brother’s forgiveness of his wrongdoings. Jacob had no control over his brother’s heart, but there was One who did. “So Jacob was left alone, and a man wrestled with him till daybreak” (Genesis 32:24). It’s significant that the wrestling match happened at night. During the day we can be distracted by the busyness of life. The quiet and solitude of night makes us face the fears we hold in our heart. It was time for Jacob to see that he could no longer depend on his own strength. The forgiveness he needed to survive was out of his control. If we are to follow God, we need to come to the point of recognizing our wrongs and our weaknesses. It is only through God’s mercy that we can be forgiven, and his grace that sees us through to the other side of the night. 2. God Honors Perseverance, Especially in Our Seeking of Him “When the man saw that he could not overpower him, he touched the socket of Jacob’s hip so that his hip was wrenched as he wrestled with the man. Then the man said, ‘Let me go, for it is daybreak.’ But Jacob replied, ‘I will not let you go unless you bless me’” (Genesis 32:25-26). Jacob had two admirable qualities. One was a spiritual sensitivity. This was seen when he fled from his brother and had the vision of the ladder to heaven, and again when he followed the voice of the Lord telling him to return to his homeland. The second quality was his determination. Jacob was not a quitter. His perseverance is highlighted in his pursuit of Rachel and his patience in serving Laban to have her hand in marriage. Jacob exemplifies both qualities in his wrestling with the mysterious man. He knew it was God he wrestled with, and he refused to give up until God blessed him. What makes this even more impactful was the moral consequences Jacob was up against. He didn’t deserve the blessing but was willing to face whatever judgment or consequence was necessary to receive it. The consequence was not insignificant. The wrestling match left him lame, but Jacob had his blessing. Photo credit: Unsplash/Naassom Azevedo 3. Our Identity Is in Christ “The man asked him, ‘What is your name?’ ‘Jacob,’ he answered. Then the man said, ‘Your name will no longer be Jacob, but Israel, because you have struggled with God and with humans and have overcome’” (Genesis 32:27-28). Jacob had an interesting heritage. By way of His grandfather’s faith, he was in the lineage of those who would multiply into many nations. He had inherited some of his grandmother Sarah’s jealousy, some his mother’s unscrupulous wit, and some of his father’s loyalty. He was named “supplanter” at birth and lived up to his name. Jacob in his early years was a selfish man. His love for Rachel and his loyalty to her family changes him partially, but it’s in his wrestling with God that Jacob reaches a turning point. He is given a new name: Israel, the Prince of God. What is the significance of a new name? It is a new identity. God does this many times throughout the Bible. Jesus does the same for every new believer. “Therefore if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creature; the old things passed away; behold, new things have come” (1 Corinthians 5:17). As we keep reading Genesis, we see that Jacob’s name switches back and forth from his old name to his new throughout his life. In Genesis 35:10, God reminds Jacob of his new name once again. This often happens with us. God gives us a new name — His beloved, a new creation in Him — but we forget who we are. Once we have wrestled with God, we should hold tightly to our new identity. We may stumble and forget who we are, but we can always come back to what God has called us to be. Photo credit: ©Getty Images/GordonImages 4. God Wants Us to Know Him Intimately “Jacob said, ‘Please tell me your name.’ But he replied, ‘Why do you ask my name?’ Then he blessed him there” (Genesis 32:29). Jacob knew who God was. He knew God was the God of his father and grandfather. But the God Jacob wrestled with by the Jabbok was God in the form of man; the part of the trinity who would come to earth and who would bear “…our sins in His body on the cross, so that we might die to sin and live to righteousness….” (1 Peter 2:24.) During the wrestling match, God became the God of Jacob’s heart. Many people know about God, but never have a true, life-changing encounter with Him. Knowing what God has done for others isn’t the same as understanding what He has done for you. God cares less about how successfully we appear to be living a righteous life and much more about the condition of our hearts. The only way to have a relationship with God is to spend time with Him. Reading the Bible, praying and worshipping with our hearts and minds fully focused on God brings us to a closer, more intimate relationship with Him. Sometimes the biggest obstacle to spending time with God is ourselves. Our priorities get mixed up. I know that when I start my day by spending time in God’s word and/or praying, the rest of the day goes better. The actual events in my day don’t change, but my attitude does because the peace of God is with me. Photo credit: Unsplash/Ben White 5. Closeness to God Requires Humility “The sun rose above him as he passed Peniel, and he was limping because of his hip” (Genesis 32:31). Jacob was made lame by his wrestling match with God. For the proud, self-sufficient, quick-witted Jacob, this physical disability was a sign of his new humility. Humility, as defined by Marriam-Webster, means, “freedom from pride or arrogance.” In our world, humility seems counter-culture and counter-success. But in God’s world, we become better people when set aside our pride and rely on Him. Jacob wasn’t the only biblical person who was humbled by God. We see the same kind of stories in Simon Peter and in the conversion of Saul to Paul. In fact, Paul would later write about a thorn in his flesh: “Because of the surpassing greatness of the revelations, for this reason, to keep me from exalting myself, there was given me a thorn in the flesh, a messenger of Satan to torment me — to keep me from exalting myself! Concerning this I implored the Lord three times that it might leave me. And He has said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for power is perfected in weakness.’ Most gladly, therefore, I will rather boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may dwell in me. Therefore I am well content with weaknesses, with insults, with distresses, with persecutions, with difficulties, for Christ’s sake; for when I am weak, then I am strong” (2 Corinthians 12:7-10). No one would want to go through life with a disability or ailment to keep them humble, but God knows what we need and that our dependence on Him instead of ourselves is our greatest strength. The sun was rising on Jacob as he limped away. He had a new ailment, but also a new identity, a new name, and a new intimacy with God. Photo credit: Unsplash/Aaron Burden The End of the Story After Jacob’s wrestling match, he saw his brother Esau. Instead of killing him, his brother met him with an embrace and tears of joy. Esau had forgiven his brother. Jacob’s life was spared. Esau didn’t even want any of the possessions that Jacob offered him (though he accepted them at Jacob’s insistence). He only wanted to be right with his brother. The rest of Jacob’s story isn’t a happily-ever-after. He would end up losing his beloved wife, Rebekah, in childbirth. His favorite son would be betrayed by his older brothers and sold into slavery. Jacob’s life ends in a foreign land. Through it all, God reminds him time and again that He is with him and His promises hold true, even if Jacob can’t see how they are possible at the time. As you read the account of Jacob’s wrestling match, what parts of his story can you identify with? Where do you need to seek forgiveness? Are you persevering in your pursuit of a relationship with God? How can you draw closer to Him and be humble? When we take the lessons God has for us from the stories in his Word, we can grow, have more peace, and be the man or woman God has called us to be. Photo credit: Unsplash/kiwihug Melanie Campbell is a member of Oregon Christian Writers and ACFW. Her debut novel, One Woman Falling, won the Oregon Christian Writers Cascade Award and is a finalist for the Selah Award. She lives in Oregon’s beautiful Willamette Valley with her husband, their three children, and several spoiled pets. You can learn more about her writing and sign up for her newsletter by visiting her website at melaniecampbellauthor.org. You can also follow her on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. Share This Recently Featured 5 Important Lessons from Jacob’s Wrestling Match with God Melanie Campbell How Did a Man after God’s Own Heart Fall So Far into Sin? Robert Hampshire What Do We Know about Angels in the Bible? Jason Soroski 5 Things God Doesn’t Know Micah Maddox Popular Articles 5 Important Lessons from Jacob’s Wrestling Match with God Melanie Campbell How Did a Man after God’s Own Heart Fall So Far into Sin? Robert Hampshire What Do We Know about Angels in the Bible? Jason Soroski 5 Things God Doesn’t Know Micah Maddox Does God Love … Everyone? Clarence L. Haynes Jr. 6 Essential Characteristics of a Godly Woman Cally Logan Featured Verse Topics Healing Bible Verses Worry and Anxiety Bible Verses Prayer Bible Verses Bible Verses for Overcoming Grief Comforting Bible Verses Bible Verses About Protection God’s Promises – Verses in the Bible Bible Verses For Faith in Hard Times Encouraging Bible Verses Hope Bible Verses Friendship Bible Verses Forgiveness Bible Verses Strength Bible Verses Love Bible Verses Inspirational Bible Verses About Online Bible Sitemap Link to Us Advertise with Us Feedback Proud member of Salem Media Group. Copyright © 2020, Bible Study Tools. All rights reserved. Article Images Copyright © 2020 Getty Images unless otherwise indicated. California – Do Not Sell My Personal Information  California – CCPA Notice

Pastor and Christian Leadership Resources   Toggle navigation 10 Things Everyone Should Know about Baptists Amanda Casanova ChristianHeadlines.com Contributor 2019 16 Jul Baptist: it’s one of the most well-known denominations in Protestant Christianity and aptly named after its main belief in believer’s baptism, where a person chooses to publicly proclaim their faith in Christ by baptism. There are some 50 million Baptists in the U.S. alone, making it one of the largest groups of Protestants in the nation. Here are 10 things to know about Baptists and their beliefs. Photo courtesy: ©Thinkstockphotos.com 1. There are a few differing opinions on the origin of the Baptist church. According to Bruce Gourley, who served as executive director of Baptist History & Heritage Society, there are four main opinions on how Baptists originated. The first is that Baptists grew from within the English Separatist movement, where in the 16th-18th centuries, Protestant Christians separated from the Church of England. This is the most accepted view and the earliest Baptist church is considered a 1609 church in Amsterdam. The second opinion holds that Baptists originated from English Separatism and was greatly influenced and formed out of Anabaptists, or Dutch Mennonites. The third and fourth opinions say that the Baptist church has existed in some form since Christ and John the Baptist. Photo Credit: ©GettyImages 2. The Baptist church started in the 17th century in America. In America, a former member of the Church of England, Roger Williams, separated from officials in the Massachusetts Bay Colony over his belief on church functions. In 1638, he founded the first Baptist church in America in uncolonized Rhode Island. Also in Rhode Island, Englishman John Clarke founded a Baptist church around the same time. The two men later received a charter from King Charles II guaranteeing religion freedom in Rhode Island. According to American Baptist Churches USA, by 1790 there were 35 Baptist associations in America and some 560 ministers. Estimates say there were some 750 churches and 60,000 Baptist in the states. Historians say that the Baptist belief in religious freedom was a significant influence on the forming of the First Amendment of the Constitution. Photo Credit: ©GettyImages 3. Baptist churches are broken up into different sub-denominations. In the United States, the largest group is made up of the Southern Baptist Convention. As of 2015, the group was made up of more than 15 million members. Southern Baptists who split with northern Baptists founded the Convention in 1845 in Georgia over the issue of slavery. Other affiliations include smaller conservative organizations (such as the American Baptist Churches USA, Baptist General Conference and the Baptist General Convention of Texas) of Baptist churches and the Independent Baptist churches that are not part of a hierarchical structure or governing authority. This group started in the late 19th and early 20th century and is made up of believers who wanted to adhere to a more conservative doctrine. There is a Baptist World Alliance, which includes some 200 Baptist organizations and conventions. The Southern Baptist Convention, however, left the Alliance in 2004 over the issues of homosexuality and women in the clergy. Photo Credit: ©GettyImages 4. The main belief in the Baptist church is Baptism. The Baptist church believes in Baptism only after a person has professed Christ as their Savior. The Baptism symbolizes the cleansing of sins. Some churches use a sprinkling of water as Baptism, but most practice full immersion, where the candidate is fully immersed in water. This symbolizes the disciples’ own baptism as stated in John 3. The practice also stems from Romans 6, which says Christians are “buried with him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life.” Baptism is not a requirement for salvation and many churches do not subscribe to infant baptism Instead, Baptism in the Baptist church is a public expression of faith. “While it is personal, it is not private,” an article from the Southern Baptist Conventions’ journal says. “Such an act of obedience actually then clarifies their testimony and opens the door for ministry in the church.” Photo Credit: ©GettyImages/Jose antonio Sancehes reyes 5. Baptists are traditionally strong believers in Biblical authority. Since the origins of the church, Baptists have said the Bible is the only authority for Christian faith and practice. Baptists believe that the Bible is the only authority because it is divinely inspired or has a divine nature. 2 Timothy 3:16-17 is an oft-cited example of why Baptists believe strongly in the Bible. The verses say, “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.” The Holy Spirit inspired the Bible and empowered men to record the truth about God and give directives on how to apply the Bible to the Christian life. Some Baptist churches may disagree on certain practices, but many say the Bible is their sole authority. Photo Credit: ©GettyImages.com 6. Baptists have differing beliefs about Calvinism versus Arminianism. Often considered a major division in the Protestant church is Calvinism vs. Arminianism. Calvinism is named after John Calvin, a theologian and pastor during the Protestant Reformation. The major tenant of Calvinism is predestination, where some people are predestined to be saved. That is, God decided the destiny of some with salvation by grace. Others are meant for damnation due to their original sin. In Arminianism, named after Jacobus Arminius, the teachings say that God has chosen us to bring salvation to all and people have the ability to make the decision for faith. Even within Calvinism and Arminianism in the Baptist church, there are differing beliefs and many conversationsabout it. The Southern Baptist Convention itself has held many conferences centering on the long-standing Protestant debate.   7. The Lord’s Supper is a symbolic act of obedience. In the Baptist church, the Lord’s Supper, also known as communion, is a symbolic practicemeant to honor the death of Jesus. Communion is not necessary for salvation. The practice comes from Jesus’ Last Supper with his disciples. At the meal, unleavened bread and the wine were served. The bread symbolizes the purity of Christ and the wine (sometimes grape juice) symbolizes the blood of Christ that was shed for his people. The Lord’s Supper is meant as a remembrance of Christ’s sacrifice on the cross. Unlike other denominations of Christianity, such as the Catholic church, the Lord’s Supper is not literally the blood and body of Christ. There is no set calendar for partaking in the Lord’s Supper among Baptist churches, but each time it is practiced, it is meant to be a time of devotion and prayer. In many churches, all are able to participate in the Lord’s Supper. Photo Credit: ©GettyImages 8. Baptists strongly encourage evangelism and missionary work. In response to Christ’s call to “make disciples of all nations,” many Baptists encourage missionary work and evangelism opportunities. Baptists say that millions of people around the world have not heard of Jesus and evangelism is the mission of sharing Christ’s message. Evangelism has a long history in the Baptist church. According to the American Baptist Churches USA, historians used books, tracts and other resources in evangelism as early as 1824. Former evangelist Billy Graham’s events have inspired waves of new evangelistic conferences and conventions, which draw in millions of people. Locally, Baptists encourage each other to share their faith openly and take the message of Christ to their neighbors, workplaces, schools and other day-to-day activities. Baptists believe in a “calling” to share the gospel and in many churches, Baptists are learning to adapt their approach to better deliver the message of Christ. Photo Credit: ©GettyImages 9. Baptists are supporters of religious freedom. Aligning with Thomas Jefferson, early Baptists held strongly to a view that supported religious liberty. Facing some persecution for their own belief in believer’s baptism, Baptists endured fines, harassment and sometimes jail time. In Massachusetts 1645, for example, the colony outlawed Baptists, calling them “the troublers of churches in all places,” according to the Ethics and Religious Liberty Commission of the Southern Baptist Convention. In response to that persecution, Baptists later helped influence the First Amendment. The early church believed in separation in church and state so that religious liberty was available to all and all were free to practice as they saw fit. With the First Amendment, Baptists supported “free exercise of religion” and not a “national pastor.” Photo Credit: ©GettyImages 10. About 50 million Americans profess as Baptist. According to a Pew Research Center study in 2014, Baptists make up nearly 16 percent of the American adult population. In the Southern Baptist Convention alone, there are some 46,500 churches and some 15 million members among those churches. In 2016, there were about 280,000 baptisms reported in the Southern Baptist Convention. In the American Baptist Church USA network, there are some 5,000 congregations and about 1.3 million members. A 2015 Pew Research Center report said 36 percent of evangelical Protestants identify with Baptist denominations. In the Baptist World Alliance, the largest organization of Baptists in the world, about 48 million are part of the alliance, according to a 2016 report. Photo Credit: ©GettyImages This article is part of our Denomination Series listing historical facts and theological information about different factions within and from the Christian religion. We provide these articles to help you understand the distinctions between denominations including origin, leadership, doctrine, and beliefs. Explore the various characteristics of different denominations from our list below! Catholic Church: History, Tradition & Beliefs Jehovah’s Witnesses & Their Beliefs Mormons: The Church of Latter Day Saints & Their Beliefs Baptist Church: History & Beliefs Presbyterians: History & Beliefs Mennonites & Their Beliefs United Methodist Church: History & Beliefs Seventh-Day Adventists & Their Beliefs The Pentecostal Church: History & Beliefs Lutheran History & Beliefs Share   Comments NEXT: What Does God Look Like? Editor’s Picks 5 Life Lessons I Wish I’d Learned before 50 Why Should We Pray for “Our Daily Bread”? Follow Crosswalk.com       Receive FREE Newsletters! Crosswalk Daily Update The Top 3 new features you need to know about at Crosswalk today. Evangelism Weekly Suggestions for mobilizing you and your flock to spread the gospel More Newsletters ▶ Enter your email address SIGN UP In addition to your newsletter(s), you will receive email updates, timely articles, and special offers from Crosswalk.com. Privacy Policy / Terms of Use About Us Contact Us Privacy Policy Terms of Use Crosswalk App California – Do Not Sell My Personal Information California – CCPA Notice