Archive for the ‘Bible Study’ Category

“The effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much” (James 5:16)

Daily Prayer List

Sunday – Spiritual Leaders

Evangelists – Pastors – Teachers – Missionaries – Others

Monday – Work / School

Business owner – Managers – Foremen – Employees

Superintendent – Principals – Teachers – Classmates

Tuesday – Government Officials

President – Vice President – Legislators – Judges – Governors – Mayors

Wednesday – Church Family

Various Groups – New Believers – Sick / Weak – Absentees – Visitors

Thursday – Relatives

Parents – Spouse – Siblings – Children – Others

Friday – Yourself

Dreams & Goals – Spiritual Gift – Spiritual Growth – Love For Others – Bold Witness

Saturday – Five Most Wanted

__________, __________, __________, __________, __________

Pray for them regularly. Spend time with them in your home and in enjoyable activities. Share your personal testimony: Your past life, Your salvation experience, Your new life in Christ.

Share the Gospel with them: Christ died for our sins, was buried, and rose again bodily on the third day. Invite them to trust in the Lord Jesus Christ alone so they can be saved.

Why Pray?

“Therefore I [theApostle Paul] exhort first of all that supplications, prayers, intercessions [for or against others – Romans 11:2], and giving of thanks be made for all men, for kings and all who are in authority, that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and reverence. For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior, who desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth” (1 Timothy 2:1-4).

Paul’s Prayer

“For this reason we also, since the day we heard it, do not cease to pray for you, and to ask that you may be filled with the knowledge of His will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding; that you may walk worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing Him, being fruitful in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God; strengthened with all might, according to His glorious power, for all patience and longsuffering with joy; giving thanks to the Father who has qualified us to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in the light. He has delivered us from the power of darkness and conveyed us into the kingdom of the Son of His love, in whom we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins” (Colossians 1:9-14).

Scripture taken from the New King James Version

Copyright c. 1982 by Thomas Nelson, Inc. Used by Permission.

All rights reserved.

Eight Ways To Communicate With God

Prayer Doesn’t Change Things…
https://kelseypeach.wordpress.com/2012/09/15/prayer-doesnt-change-things/

Prayer – A Powerful Placebo?

Numbering Our Days

Posted: December 21, 2022 in Bible Study, Christian Life

“So teach us to number our days, That we may gain a heart of wisdom” (Psalm 90:2).

How many days have you lived on this earth? I was curious about myself, and so I asked “Siri.” I found out that, as I write this, it was 29,262 days ago when my mother first held me in her arms. A lot has happened since then – some good things and some bad things.

Even though I wish I could change some of the things that I did and which happened to me in the past, I can’t do that. But I can do something about today. As a Christian, I can walk by means of the Spirit (Galatians 5:16), or I might foolishly choose to walk according to the flesh (my sin nature – 1 John 1:8) and risk dying prematurely (Romans 8:13; 1 Corinthians 11:30; James 5:19, 20; 1 John 5:16). Because God loves us, He will discipline / chasten His unruly children in this life, not after we die (Hebrews 12:5 ff). There is no Purgatory mentioned in the Bible.

Yes, we all have “actual years” and “potential years.” I’m glad that the Lord Jesus holds the keys of death today, and not the devil as he did in Old Testament times (Hebrews 2:14, 15; Revelation 1:18). I need not fear those who may want to hurt or kill my body. They can only do so if God permits it. He delivered many believers in the past, but He also allowed many others to suffer before they died physically (See Hebrews 11; 2 Corinthians 11:22-33.)

“Yes, and all who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will suffer persecution” (2 Timothy 3:12). But “the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us” (Romans 8:18).

It is my desire to be habitually led by God the Holy Spirit so I can continue to mature as a believer in Christ (Romans 8:14). I want to have all my known sins confessed to God so I can enjoy fellowship with Him and other believers (1 John 1:5-10; Proverbs 28:13). I want to do my best to make things right with those whom I believe I have wronged (James 5:16; 1 Corinthians 11:28).

“Search me, O God, and know my heart; Try me, and know my anxieties; And see if there is any wicked way in me, And lead me in the way everlasting” (Psalm 139:23, 24).

I want to do good to all men, but especially to those who are believers (Galatians 6:10), and show my love for God by loving them (1 John 3:16, 17). It’s not hard to love God, but sometimes it is hard to love some of His children. I’m sure there are times when other believers find me difficult to love too.

By our loving fellow Christians, other people will know that we are God’s children (John 13:34, 35).

“Agape” love is a part of the “Fruit of the Spirit” and Christ likeness. It is produced by God the Holy Spirit in the lives of Christians who are rightly related to Him (Galatians 5:22, 23), and who aren’t grieving or quenching Him (Ephesians 4:30; 1 Thessalonians 5:19).

It must be directed toward the right objects, at the right time, and for the right reasons. It must not be misdirected toward the present, diabolical world system (1 John 2:15-17). This love seeks the highest well being of another (i.e., what God would want for them). It’s what God did for us sinners.

“For God [the Father] so loved the world [i.e., the people caught up in the devil’s world system] that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him [the Lord Jesus Christ] should not perish [in the lake of fire forever] but have [eternal] life” (John 3:16). But read this verse too. “He who believes in Him is not condemned; but he who does not believe is condemned already, because he has not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God” (John 3:18).

If you haven’t placed your faith and trust in the Lord Jesus Christ alone, Who died for your sins…and rose again bodily from the dead on the third day, why not do so right now? If you do this, you will pass from spiritual death into God’s quality of life (eternal life), and will begin to be able to really live and enjoy an abundant, productive life. (See John 5:24; 10:10; 15:5; 1 John 3:14)

If you’ve been saved by God’s grace through faith in the Lord Jesus Christ, are you basking in the spiritual blessings He has bestowed on you, and are you doing the good works that He wants you to do while you’re living here on planet earth (Ephesians 1:3 ff 2:8-10; 1 Peter 4:10; Acts 1:8)? These good works are related to the spiritual gift that God gave to you at the time of your salvation. (Need more information? Ask about it.)

Let’s not boast about tomorrow, for we don’t know what a day may bring forth (Proverbs 27:1). Our lives are like a vapor that appears for a little while and then it vanishes away (James 4:14). Instead, let’s live each day as though it might be our last day on earth, or the last day of someone we love and/or know. We’re supposed to glorify God by making Him known to others (1 Corinthians 10:31).

We’re here to assist those who are teachable, willing to change, and who want to grow spiritually (2 Timothy 2:2, 15; 3:16; 2 Peter 3:18).

Please let us know if this article has helped you, and if you’re led by the Holy Spirit, SHARE this with others (Romans 8:14). Contact us if you have questions and/or comments. We can be reached her or through our website: www.kelseypeach.com. Click on “Follow” if you’d like to receive future articles as they come out.

Scripture taken from the New King James Version. Copyright 1982 by Thomas Nelson, Inc.  

Used by Permission. All rights reserved.

Have you, like I, ever made some New Year’s Resolutions only to fail to keep them after a short time? I have. Maybe you had full intentions to read through the Bible in one year but quit before long. Maybe you were never shown the “Big Picture” before you got started or weren’t told how to interpret the Bible. Maybe you got confused by the seeming contradictions in the Bible and failed to understand the distinctions between the Jews and the Church. Or perhaps you had some other reason for quitting. If you still have a desire to do this, may we suggest a few things?

If you are not a Christian yet, the first thing you need to do is “Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ alone, Who died for your sins…and rose again bodily on the third day. If you do this, you will be saved eternally” (See Acts 16:31; 1 Corinthians 15:3, 4; Ephesians 2:8, 9).

If you’ve been saved, the following information may be for you. It’s designed for Christians who are faithful, teachable, and willing to change and grow spiritually (2 Timothy 2:2, 15; 3:16, 17; 2 Peter 3:18). It’s designed to help such people understand the Bible better to find out what God, man’s Creator, wants us to know and do: (1) How we got here. (2) What are we supposed to be doing on earth. (3) Where we’ll go when we die.

I’ve been making it a point to read through the whole Bible in a year and I have been doing it for over 50 years. I also like to listen to the reading of the Scriptures and memorize sections of it. (If you’re interested in doing this, ask for more information.) I learn something new each time I read or listen to it being read.

It’s a wonderful treasure from God. Instead of feeling like “I have to read it,” I feel like “I want to and get to read it.” Many people in the world don’t have a Bible to read. They don’t know that God loved them and gave His only begotten Son to them to die in their place for their sins and rose again bodily from the grave so He could save them from the lake of fire and take them to heaven (John 3:16). If you’ve been saved, will you help us get this “Good News” out to such people?

By spending 1% of your day (about 15 minutes each day), you can read through the entire Bible in a year. You can listen to it being read as you drive your car to work or as you relax in a chair. I have several Study Bibles in my library. I especially like the Scofield Study Bible. (If you’re interested in learning more about it, ask us.)

The Bible is a collection of 66 books in one book. There are 39 books in the Old Testament and 27 books in the New Testament. All of the Bible is for Christians, but not all of it is addressed to us. There are doctrines / teachings in it that are to be believed but not practiced, and other teachings that are for us to believe and practice (Titus 1:9). Example: The dietary rules for the Jews, and their sacrifices are different than those for Christians. There are different promises to be claimed or not claimed.

There are different sets of “Household Rules” called “Dispensations” for different people living in different times throughout human history. They are NOT different ways to be saved. Salvation is always by God’s grace through faith in God. (See above.)

While an unbeliever can understand the historical information found in the Bible, the deep truths of it can be understood only by believers who have God the Holy Spirit as their Divine Teacher. He can illuminate our minds to the truth that is found in the Scriptures (1 Corinthians 2:9-16; 1 John 2:27).

To help you get a visual picture of human history from the beginning to the end, we have a FREE Bible Study Book Marker with a Dispensations Chart on it along with other helpful information. (May we suggest that you make a copy of it for yourelf on light colored paper and fold it and keep it in your Bible?) https://www.kelseypeach.com/_files/ugd/08892a_ce5bb78881fa4f50a6c866dd9ab0adfe.pdf

The following three short “Bible Panorama” articles will supplement the Chart:

Contact us if you have questions and/or comments. We’re here to assist those who are teachable, willing to change, and who want to grow in the sphere of grace (2 Timothy 2:2, 15; 3:16, 17; 2 Peter 3:18). We can be reached here or through our website: www.kelseypeach.com. Please SHARE this information with others.

Prior to his becoming a true believer in the God of the Jews, King Nebuchadnezzar ruled over the whold world as “The Head of God” and as a very cruel dictator. God used him to punish the wicked Jews by taking them into captivity in Babylon for 70 years (Daniel 1:1, 2; 2:38; Jeremiah 29:10).

After being humbled by God for seven years, and living like a beast of the field, and then having his kingdom restored to him, he shared his personal testimony for all the world to read. It’s recorded for us in Daniel chapter 4. He came to realize that “the Most High [God] rules in the kingdom of men, [and that He] gives it to whomever He will, and sets over it the lowest of men” (Daniel 4:17, 25).

It is God Himself Who “changes the times and the seasons; [Who] removes kings and raises up kings; [Who] gives wisdom to the wise and knowledge to those who have understanding” (Daniel 2:21).

We also know that it is God Who “has made from one blood [i.e. Adam] every nation of men to dwell on all the face of the earth, and [He] has determined their preappointed times and the boundaries of their dwellings” (Acts 17:26). (See “Evolution vs God.” Click below.)

Behind most of the rulers of this earth there is a fallen angel / demon who is in controll of that person even without that person’s knowing it (Daniel 10:20; Ephesians 2:2; 6:12). They don’t have your best interest in mind. But Christians are to pray for them, and we can also intercede against them (1 Timothy 2:1-4; Romans 11:2).

Apparently after sufffering from years of painful tuberculosis and eventually losing his leg to the disease, Poet William E. Henley foolishly said, “I am the master of my fate: I am the captain of my soul.” He knows better now where he is.

All of us are either controlled by the devil / demons (John 8:44; 13:2; Acts 10:38), by our own sinful nature (Romans 6:11-14; Galatians 5:16), or by the Lord (Ephesians 5:18).

Author Warren Wiersbe wrote, “I would rather have Jesus Christ as my Master than anyone else I know [Romans 12:1, 2; 1 Peter 3:15]. He loves me [ John 13:34, 35], He knows all about me [John 2:24, 25], He made me [Psalm 139:15], He knows the future [Isaiah 46:10], and He gives me the power I need to serve Him acceptably and fruitfully [Philippians 4:13; Ephesian 3:20]. When I fail, [The Father] forgives me [when I confess my sins to Him – 1 John 1:9] and helps me start over again [Luke 22:32]. He never leaves me or forsakes me [Hebrews 13:5], and He rewards me graciously [1 Corinthians 3:8, 14; 2 Corinthians 5:10], though I don’t deserve it [Revelation 4:11; 5:9]. Could you find a better Master than that?” [I couldn’t.] – Warren W. Wiersbe, On Being A Servant, p. 30.

Songwriter Oscar C. A. Bernadotte expressed the longing of his heart with these words –

I’d rather have Jesus than silver or gold;

I’d rather be His than have riches untold;

I’d rather have Jesus than houses or lands;

I’d rather be led by His nail-pierced hand

Refrain:
Than to be the king of a vast domain
Or be held in sin’s dread sway;
I’d rather have Jesus than anything
This world affords today.

What about you? Are you tired of making a mess out of your life? Have you placed your faith and trust in the Lord Jesus Christ alone, Who died for your sins…and rose again bodily on the third day? If not, why not now? Are you depending on some or all of your good works to be saved? (If you are, Stop! Read Ephesians 2:8, 9; Titus 3:5)

Once you’ve been saved, and in light of the mercies of God, He wants /desires that all believers “present [their] bodies as a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to Godwhich is [our] reasonable service. And do not be conformed to this world [age], but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God” (Romans 12:1, 2).

God has some wonderful things He’d like to accomplish in and through His children for God’s glory and the good of others (Ephesians 2:10; 1 Peter 4:10).

Contact us here or through our website www.kelseypeach.com if you’d like to learn more. We want to assist those who are teachable, willing to change, and grow spiritually (2 Timothy 2:2, 15; 3:16-4:8).

[1] Video: Evolution vs God. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U0u3-2CGOMQ&t=15s

The Gospel: https://kelseypeach.wordpress.com/2019/04/24/the-bad-news-the-good-news/

Scripture taken from the New King James Version. Copyright 1982 by Thomas Nelson, Inc.  

Used by Permission. All rights reserved.

After people “get saved,” when they believe on the Lord Jesus Christ through the message of the Gospel, they are often encouraged to read the Bible (let God talk to you), pray (you talk to God), and witness to others about Christ. This all sounds like a good idea. But we believe that new believers need some help in these areas so they don’t get disappointed, discouraged, and begin to have doubts.

Like newborn babies, we all should start out with the “milk of the Word” and then go on to “solid food” (1 Peter 2:2; Hebrews 5:12-14). Older, more mature believers can be a great asset to newer Christians (Galatians 6:2; 1 Thessalonians 5:11).

If you’ve been saved for some time, what are you doing to help rather than hinder new believers? How much spiritual growth has taken place in your life? Maybe you need this information too.

Do you know that Christians have Eight Ways To Communicate With God” and that the Bible has Seven Distinct Rules For Living” for different people living in different times?

If you’ve been saved by God’s grace through faith in the Lord Jesus Christ alone, Who died for your sins…and rose again bodily from the dead, [1] you’ll want to help your family, friends, and fellow workers get saved from everlasting condemnation (John 3:18; Romans 8:1) so they can join you in heaven some day? Did you know that Christians can earn the “Crown of Rejoicing” for having a part in the salvation of others (1 Thessalonians 2:19, 20)? [2]

The Apostle Paul wrote, “Therefore, my beloved, as you have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out [not for] your own salvation with fear and trembling; for it is God who works in you both to will and to do for His good pleasure” (Philippians 2:12, 13). Imagine that – He energizes us to do the things that will please Him. It should be our goal in life to please and glorify God by making Him known to others (2 Corinthians 5:9; 1 Corinthians 10:31).

Sadly, many Christians quench Him (i.e. render Him inoperative in their lives) and grieve Him by sinning – acting lawlessly (1 Thessalonians 5:19; Ephesians 4:30; 1 John 3:4). Are you doing this? If so, confess it to Him, claim His forgiveness, and move on toward spiritual maturity (1 John 1:9; Proverbs 28:13).

Our FREE “Bible Study Book Marker” [3] was designed to help you and others gain assurance of your salvation, to help you get the most out of God’s Word by using our “Bible Study Aids,” and to communicate with God more effectively (How To Pray), and to know what portions of the Bible are for you and which are addressed to you (See our “Dispensations Chart”).

All of the Bible is truth (John 17:17). It even records the lies of the devil and other people. It is what God wants us to know for now. In His Word, God “has given to us all things that pertain to life and godliness, through the knowledge of Him who called us by glory and virtue, by which have been given to us exceedingly great and precious promises, that through these you may be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust” (2 Peter 1:3, 4).

All of the Bible needs to be believed, but not all of it is to be believed and practiced (Titus 1:9). Example: Dietary rules and types of sacrifices offered to God by the Jews differ from Christian rules (Leviticus 11; 1 Timothy 4:4; Hebrews 9:13; 10:4; 13:15, 16).

May we suggest that you download a copy of our FREE Bible Study Book Marker for yourself on light colored paper and make some additional copies for those who are teachable, willing to change, and who want to grow spiritually (2 Timothy 2:2, 15; 3:16, 17; 2 Peter 3:18)? Keep one in your Bible as a handy reference guide.

Contact us here or through our website if you have questions or would like additional help: www.kelseypeach.com. If this information has helped you, please let us know. And if you would like to get future articles as they come out, click on “Follow.”

[1] Gospel Presentations – https://kelseypeach.wordpress.com/2022/02/16/gospel-presentations/

[2] Crowns – https://kelseypeach.wordpress.com/2018/07/12/whats-free-whats-earned/

[3] FREE Bible Study Book Marker: https://www.kelseypeach.com/_files/ugd/08892a_ce5bb78881fa4f50a6c866dd9ab0adfe.pdf

[4] Final Test Questions: https://kelseypeach.wordpress.com/2019/11/02/the-test-questions/

Precious Promises – https://kelseypeach.wordpress.com/2019/04/01/promises-for-christians-to-claim-2/

Need A Good Study Bible? We recommend the “Scofield Study Bible.” Ask for more information.

Scripture taken from the New King James Version. Copyright 1982 by Thomas Nelson, Inc.  

Used by Permission. All rights reserved.

Nothing, absolutely nothing, is too hard for God. He is omnipotent (Revelation 1:8) and omniscient (Isaiah 46:10). With every problem that we face here on earth, there is a solution to it. Christians are free to ask God for the wisdom they need to resolve a seemingly impossible matter. However, notice some specific conditions (James 1:5-8). Contrast God’s wisdom with worldly wisdom (James 3:13-18)

Our God “is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us, to Him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus to all generations, forever and ever. Amen.” (Ephesians 3:20). Do you honestly believe this? If not, why?

Helpers. God also may use spiritually maturing fellow believers, who have gone through similar situations, to help us find the answers we need to solve our problems (See 2 Corinthians 1:3, 4). Through “agape” love we (Christians) can/should serve one another (Galatians 5:13; See 1 Corinthians 13).

Promise. “No temptation has overtaken you except such as is common to man; but God is faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the temptation will also make the way of escape, that you may be able to bear it” (1 Corinthians 10:13).

Examples. Consider Abraham’s painful test regarding offering his son Isaac as a sacrifice (Genesis 22), the Jews at the Red Sea (Exodus 14), Jethro’s advice to Moses who was overextending himself (Genesis 18:13-27), Daniel and his friend’s dietary dilemma (Daniel 1), Esther and Haman’s threat to annihilate the Jews (Esther 4 ff ), and the believers in the “Hall of Faith.” Many were delivered; others weren’t. But they still brought glory to God (Hebrews 11).

Christ’s Work. God was glorified through the death of Christ for our sins and His bodily resurrection from the dead (John 17:4, 5). It demonstrated God’s love for sinful humanity (John 3:16). How are you glorifying God by making Him known to others (1 Corinthians 10:31).

God will make a way
Where there seems to be no way
He works in ways we cannot see
He will make a way for me.”

Don Moen

Doubting God? Remember – God loves to show Himself strong on the behalf of those whose heart is loyal to Him (2 Chronicles 16:9). Is your heart right with God or are there things that need to be confessed to Him (1 John 1:9)? Are you doubting God and His promises to you (2 Peter 1:4). How many of them do you know and claim? [1] Do you know that doing something while doubting is sin (Romans 14:23).

On Being Thankful. [2] Have you thanked God for allowing you to be put in a situation that seems to have no solution (1 Thessalonians 5:18), for everything apart from sin (Ephesians 5:20), and for all men (1 Timothy 2:1)?

God’s Eyes. Keep this in mind – “… the eyes of the LORD run to and fro throughout the whole earth, to show Himself strong on behalf of those whose heart is loyal to Him” (2 Chronicles 16:9).

The Red Sea Rules [3]

#1: Realize that God means for you to be where you are.

#2: Be more concerned for God’s glory than for your relief.

#3: Acknowledge your enemy, but keep your eyes on the Lord.

#4: Pray!

#5: Stay calm and confident, and give God time to work.

#6: When unsure, just take the next logical step by faith.

#7: Envision God’s enveloping presence.

#8: Trust God to deliver in His own unique way.

#9: View your current crisis as a faith builder for the future.

#10: Don’t forget to praise Him.

Song

“Got any rivers you think are impossible?
Got any mountains you can not tunnel thorough?
God specializes in things thought impossible
And He can do what no other God can do.”

Oscar C. Eliason

Gospel. [3] Maybe you have a bigger problem than you realize – perhaps you’re not a Christian yet. If so, you need to know that Christ died for your sins…and rose again bodily from the dead on the third day (1 Corinthians 15:3, 4). To be delivered from eternal condemnation in hell, you must place your faith and trust in Him alone to save you (Acts 16:31). We are NOT saved by our good works (Ephesians 2:8, 9; Titus 3:5).

Action Steps. In light of what you have read, what specific things do you need to do today? The Apostle Paul wrote, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me” (Philippians 4:13). Think you have problems? Consider his suffering (2 Corinthians 11:22-33). Why did he say he was willing to endure what he did (2 Timothy 2:10)? What hardships are you willing to endure for the benefit of others, especially fellow Christians (Galatians 6:10)? “Hereby know we love, because He [Christ] laid down his life for us: and we ought to lay down our lives for the brethren” (1 John 3:16).

Help. If you have questions and/or comments, we can be reached here or through our website: www.kelseypeach.com. We’re here to assist those who are teachable, willing to change, and grow spiritually (2 Timothy 2:2, 15; 3:16, 17; 2 Peter 3:18). Help us reach others by SHARING this with those in your circle of influence. To receive future articles as they come out, click on the notification Bell or Follow.

[1] Promises. https://kelseypeach.wordpress.com/2019/04/01/promises-for-christians-to-claim-2/

[2] On Being Thankful. https://kelseypeach.wordpress.com/2012/11/15/an-attitude-of-gratitude/

[3] Red Sea Rules, Book by Robert J. Morgan

[4] Gospel. https://kelseypeach.wordpress.com/2022/02/16/gospel-presentations/

Scripture taken from the New King James Version

Copyright c. 1982 by Thomas Nelson, Inc. Used by Permission. All rights reserved.

“Anticipation is the emotion we experience when we are expecting something to happen (good or bad), where we are left in a state of anxious suspense. Some people may feel excited, and others may just feel nervous. Anticipatory concerns are the thoughts we have while feeling anticipation. Anticipatory emotions could include fear, anxiety, hope and trust.” – Source unknown

Does what is happening in the world right now concern or frighten you? Are you afraid some madman might push a button and annihilate all life from the earth? (Consider our frightening experience.) [1] Does “climate change” dominate your thinking? Are you struggling financially to make ends meet? What comes to your mind when you hear the word “Armageddon”? In your opinion, what does the future look like – gloomy or bright? Are you following the news? If so, which news? Is it reliable or fake? Whom can / should you trust? Upon what do you base your beliefs and how do you make your decisions? [2]

World Leaders. Most of them have advisors and counselors to help them make decisions to achieve their desired objectives and goals. For many of them “The end justifies the means.” I think that you probably will agree with me that things aren’t looking good right now and that we may need a “New World Order.” The big question is, Who will run it – God’s man or the devil’s man?

Quote. “We do not want another committee, we have too many already.  What we want is a man of sufficient stature to hold the allegiance of all people, and to lift us out of the economic morass into which we are sinking. Send us such a man, and be he god or devil, we will receive him.” – Paul Henri-Spaak, former Belgian Prime Minister.

Your Thoughts & Dreams. What do you believe and anticipate will happen in the future? Who or what influences your thinking? If you have a clearly defined, noble dream and have set goals for yourself, ask yourself these questions: By when (time frame) do I want to accomplish this? What obstacles might I face along the way? What people, groups, and organizations do I need to help me achieve my dream? What new skills do I need to develop? What specific steps do I need to take? And most importantly, WHY do I want to achieve this particular dream? [3] One more important question – Have you included God’s Word and His will for your life into your planning? If you’re a Christian, please read James 4:13-17 to avoid wasting your time and acting lawlessly with dire consequences. “There is a way that seems right to a man, But its end is the way of death” (Proverbs 14:12).

The Future. Can anyone know the future with any degree of certainty? If so, how? What are you anticipating / expecting to happen? Upon what are you beliefs based? Is it the Bible? What if you are being misled by a false teacher and end up in the lake of fire to suffer forever (Matthew 25:30, 41, 46)? Maybe you’ve taken the attitude, “Que sera, sera – Whatever will be, will be”? Have you lost hope? Are you superstitious? If you are, you’re not alone, even though it’s the wrong way to make decisions. (See James 4:15).

Superstitious World Leaders. Napoleon’s actions were often directed by two things: his fear of cats and the number 13. Mary Queen of Scots reigned from 1542 to 1567 and many accounts indicate that she made important decisions based on her tarot readings. Winston Churchill surrounded himself with cats that allegedly brought him good luck while he battled the apparent dark influences of the number 13, Friday and travel in general. Similarly across the Atlantic, President Roosevelt hated travelling [on] Fridays and the number 13. Hitler was terrified of cats and had them banned from all Nazi installations. His quest for the occult, including the search for the spear of destiny said to have pierced the side of Jesus Christ, became legendary but did not do much to help him in the end. With varying degrees, from President Truman’s lucky horseshoe in the Oval Office to President’s Reagan’s executive seer, Joan Quigley, superstition has been taking the punch out of democracy for centuries now. [4] Is it any wonder that the world is in such a mess?

The Right Way. The Christian’s decisions in life can/should be made by taking God’s Word and His will for our lives into consideration (James 4:13-17). His Word, the Bible is totally accurate and reliable. Jesus said, “Sanctify them by Your truth. Your word is truth.” (John 17:17). He also said, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me” (John 14:6). If God and His Word aren’t true, Christians are deluded and most pitiable for believing the Gospel which tells us that Christ died for our sins…and rose again bodily from the dead (1 Corinthians 15:3, 4, 12-19).

Bible Prophecy. Since the prophecies concerning Christ’s first coming were fulfilled literally, we believe that the prophecies concerning His second coming will be fulfilled literally too. (Sadly, many “Bible teachers” within Christendom don’t interpret Bible prophecy literally or normally as they should be interpreted and so they mislead many people.) While we don’t know all the details concerning the future, we have been given enough information to give us hope (a confident expectation based on a promise from God Who cannot lie) that “God wins” in the end.

The Order. “It’s darkest just before the dawn.” We believe that currently the stage is being set and very soon God is going to allow the devil, the man of sin (antichrist), and the false prophet to rule the world for seven years (Daniel 9:27). During this time over ½ of the world’s population will die (Revelation 6:8; 9:15). Then Christ will return to this earth (Acts 1:9-11; Matthew 24:29-31), destroy His and the Jewish believers’ enemies (Psalm 2:9; Zechariah 14:1-15; Revelation 19:11-16). He will set up His “Thousand Year Reich” over the whole world and the devil will be bound in the abyss (in the heart of the earth) during this time (Revelation 20:1-10). But the Beast (Antichrist) and the False Prophet will be cast live into the lake of fire to suffer forever (Revelation 19:20). My friend, you don’t have to go this awful place.[5]

Your Future. To get out of the devil’s “kingdom of darkness”and enter the “kingdom of God’s dear Son” you must place your faith and trust in the Lord Jesus Christ alone, Who died for your sins…and rose again bodily on the third day (Acts 16:31; 1 Corinthians 15:3, 4). [6] Note: We are NOT saved by our good works (Ephesians 2:8, 9; Titus 3:5).

Understanding and Illumination. [7] Once you become a true Christian, God the Holy Spirit acts as the Divine Teacher who is ready to illuminate your mind to the truth that is found in the Scriptures (John 14:26; 16:13). He also uses Christians to share the Gospel with lost people so they can be saved (Acts 1:8; Ephesians 4:11 ff). Once saved, He wants all Christians to grow spiritually (2 Peter 3:18). [8]

FREE. To help you understand the Bible better, we have a FREE Bible Study Book Marker, with a special chart that will give you the “Big Picture” of time from the beginning to the end. [9]

Fear Not. While the devil and demons are much more powerful than humans are, we don’t need to fear them “because He [God] who is in [every Christian] is greater than he [the devil] who is in the world” (1 John 4:4). “Perfect love casts out fear” (1 John 4:18; See John 14:1-3).

Abide In Him. If you’re a Christian, do you abide (feel at ease) in God’s presence; does He abide (feel at ease) with you (John 15:1 ff)? Are you grieving (Ephesians 4:30) or quenching Him (1 Thessalonians 5:19)? Is there any unconfessed sin in your life that is keeping you from enjoying family fellowship with Him and other believers (1 John 1:5-9)?

Crown Of Righteousness. Christians can earn this crown by loving and anticipating His imminent return for the true Church, His Bride-to-Be (2 Timothy 4:8)? Are you allowing Him to live out His life through your life (Galatians 2:20; 4:19)?

Help. We’re here to assist those who are teachable, willing to change, and grow spiritually (2 Timothy 2:2, 15; 3:16, 17; 2 Peter 3:18). If you have questions and/or comments, we can be reached here or through out website: www.kelseypeach.com. Help us reach others by SHARING this with those in your circle of influence.

[1] “Incoming Missile Threat” – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hsy17RGC7o4

[2] Decision Making – https://kelseypeach.wordpress.com/?s=decision+making

[3] Adapted from Zig Ziglar’s motivational speech.

[4] Superstitious World Leaders – https://historynewsnetwork.org/article/130033

[5] The Order Of Coming Events – https://kelseypeach.wordpress.com/2014/01/30/the-order-of-coming-events/

[6] Gospel Presentations – https://kelseypeach.wordpress.com/2022/02/16/gospel-presentations/

[7] Illumination – https://www.gotquestions.org/biblical-illumination.html

[8] Spiritual Gifts – https://www.kelseypeach.com/bible-basics

[9] FREE Bible Study Book Marker – Dispensations Chart https://www.kelseypeach.com/_files/ugd/08892a_ce5bb78881fa4f50a6c866dd9ab0adfe.pdf

While the devil and his agents (the wicked men of this world – Ephesians 2:2; John 8:44) plot and scheme in an attempt to overthrow God and try to bring in “world peace” without the “Prince of Peace” (Isaiah 9:6), God laughs at them and holds them in derision (Psalm 2). Consider what some of these rebels are doing and saying. [1]

Believers. “Fret not because of evil doers…They will be cut down soon…” (Psalm 37:1, 2). God is omnipotent, and no one can overthrow Him (Revelation 1:8). We are in God’s good hands (John 10:28, 29). Nothing can separate us from God’s love (Romans 8:38, 39). But God wants us to “Be sober, be vigilant; because [our] adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour” (1 Peer 5:8).

Warning – Non-Christians. If you’re not a Christian, you should be very concerned about what is happening in the world today. Don’t let the devil lull you into spiritual sleep (1 John 5:19). You need to get out of Satan’s kingdom of darkness now and into God’s family (Colossians 1:13) by believing on the Lord Jesus Christ alone, Who died for your sins…and rose again bodily on the third day (Acts 16:31; 1 Corinthians 15:3, 4).

Tribulation. It seems that, in the very near future, as the Bible has predicted, God is going to let the wicked have their way for seven years (Daniel 9:27) to demonstrate, once and for all, that they cannot bring in “world peace” without Him (John 15:5; 1 Thessalonians 5:3; Revelation 6:1 ff). If God were to allow them to have more than seven years, no flesh on earth would survive (Mathew 24:22).

Depopulation. During this time of “Tribulation” (Revelation 6-19) over ½ of the world’s population will die (Revelation 6:8; 9:18) from 21 judgments and plagues. But God will not allow the devil or evil men to totally annihilate humanity from this planet that is in revolt against Him and His Christ (Mark 14:13-20; John 18:40). In the end, God wins, not Satan (Revelation 20:10).

Globalists. There are Globalists who would like to reduce the population of the world from about 8 billion people down to 500 million people. [2] Think about that for a moment. They consider many people to be nothing more than “useless eaters.” Some (maybe all) of them are eugenicists who have no qualms about murdering babies, handicapped people, or some older people through euthanasia. Question – Who made them God?

“Blood On Jewish Children?” When Jesus was on trial, Pilate, the Roman governor, became very frustrated with the wicked Jewish leaders and the people who hated Jesus and wanted Him crucified because He didn’t meet their expectations of the Messiah. They wanted a political deliverer, a “Welfare King” (John 6:15, 66), not a spiritual one. This is true even to this day.

Relentless. They were persistent in their demands. And so “When Pilate saw that he could not prevail at all [against these Jewish people], but rather that a tumult was rising, he took water and washed his hands before the multitude, saying, ‘I am innocent of the blood of this just Person. You see to it.’ And all the people answered and said, ‘His blood be on us and on our children.’” (Mathew 27:24, 25). [3]

Sad Story. Is this one of the reasons why the Jews have been persecuted continually by other nations since then? The devil hates the Jews and doesn’t want God to fulfill His promises to them. Know this – God is NOT finished with the Jews (Romans 11:1 ff). Don’t curse them or face serious consequences (Genesis 12:1-3). Future prediction – “And this shall be the plague with which the LORD will strike all the people who fought against Jerusalem: Their flesh shall dissolve while they stand on their feet, Their eyes shall dissolve in their sockets, And their tongues shall dissolve in their mouths” (Zechariah 14:12).

Replaced? The Church has NOT replaced Israel. [4] There is a bright future awaiting Jewish believers who will cry out when Christ [their true Messiah], Who was rejected, returns to this earth to rescue them from total annihilation.

Armageddon.This will take place (perhaps in the very near future) when all the nations of the earth come against the Jews at a place called Armageddon, located in northern Israel (Zechariah 12:1-14; 14:1-9; Revelation 16:16). As Christ descends in a cloud of glory against a totally darkened sky (Matthew 24:29-31; Acts 1:9-11), they will cry out and say, “Hosanna to the Son of David! ‘Blessed is He who comes in the name of the LORD!’ Hosanna in the highest!” (Psalm 118:26; Matthew 23:39).

Christ’s Kingdom. When Christ (Messiah) returns to establish His 1,000 rule over the whole earth (Isaiah 9:6, 7; Revelation 20:1 ff), He will crush and defeat all the unbelieving rebels (Revelation 2:9, 27; 12:5; 19:15; Psalm 2:9). The Jewish and non-Jewish believers who physically survive this seven year “holocaust” will be the ones who will repopulate the earth (Matthew 24:13), just as Noah’s three sons and their wives repopulated the earth in which we now live (Genesis 9).

One Race. There is only “one race” – the “human race” (Acts 17:26). Don’t believe the lie of evolution. [5] There are many ethnic groups and languages that came into existence at “The Tower Of Babel” when God changed their one language into many languages (Genesis 10, 11; See Revelation 5:9; 13:7; 14:6). This is also the time when the continental shift began to take place (Genesis 10:25).

God Is Sovereign. He is in control of everything and nothing takes Him by surprise and nothing man does happens without His permission. His purpose is to glorify Himself by letting His creatures know that He is everything He says He is (John 17:1-5; Exodus 3:14). If you’re a Christian, are you glorifying Him in all that you do? (1 Corinthians 10:31)

Knowledge. You may know and believe many facts that are found in the Bible. You may even believe the facts of the Gospel that Christ died for your sins…and rose again bodily on the third day. But not until you transfer your faith and trust from yourself and your good works over to Christ alone to save you, are you actually saved from eternal condemnation (1 Corinthians 15:3, 4; Ephesians 2:8, 9; Acts 16:31; Romans 8:1). Have you done this yet? If not, why not right now?

Help. We’re here to assist those who want to know the truth that’s found in God’s Word (John 17:17), and respond to it with faith and trust in Christ alone for their salvation. We also want to help believers who have a strong desire to grow spiritually (1 Peter 2:2; 2 Peter 3:18), to serve God and others with love (1 Peter 4:10; 1 Corinthians 13), and to reproduce themselves (Matthew 28:19, 20). If you fit into this category, and if have questions and/or comments about this article, or others we’ve written, we can be reached here or through our website: www.kelseypeach.com.

R.S.V.P. – Please let us know if this information helped you, and if it did, how will you let it affect your conduct? Also, please SHARE this with those in your circle of influence.

[1] Rebels – World Economic Forum – WEF (Read & Watch what they’re doing and saying.)

https://www.nowtheendbegins.com/yuval-noah-harari-world-economic-forum-antichrist-minion/

Watch: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zrfo_pfTz64&t=182s

[2[ Population Reduction – Georgia Guide Stones – https://grandmageri422.me/2020/03/15/the-georgia-guides-stones-population-control-and-the-coming-antichrist/

[3] A. Hitler quoted Martin Luther – https://www.gotquestions.org/Martin-Luther-anti-semitic.html

[4] Replacement Theology – https://www.gotquestions.org/replacement-theology.html

[5] Evolution vs God – Video https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U0u3-2CGOMQ&t=2s

The Order of Coming Events – https://kelseypeach.wordpress.com/2014/01/30/the-order-of-coming-events/

Bible Study Book Marker and Dispensations Chart – https://www.kelseypeach.com/_files/ugd/08892a_ce5bb78881fa4f50a6c866dd9ab0adfe.pdf

Gospel Presentations – How To Be Saved From Eternal Condemnation

Scripture taken from the New King James Version. Copyright 1982 by Thomas Nelson, Inc.  

Used by Permission. All rights reserved.

The Apostle Paul told Timothy, “Preach the word! Be ready in season and out of season. Convince, rebuke, exhort, with all longsuffering and teaching. For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine, but according to their own desires, because they have itching ears, they will heap up for themselves teachers; and they will turn their ears away from the truth, and be turned aside to fables” (2 Timothy 4:2-4). Therefore, beware of false teachers.

Rebels. The rebellious, unbelieving, Old Testament Jews warned the Prophet Jeremiah and said, “Do not prophesy in the name of the LORD, lest you die by our hand” (Jeremiah 11:21). The Apostle Paul said, “[The unbelieving Jews] killed both the Lord Jesus and their own prophets, and have persecuted us; and they do not please God and are contrary to all men, forbidding us to speak to the Gentiles that they may be saved, so as always to fill up the measure of their sins; but wrath has come upon them to the uttermost” (1 Thessalonians 2:15, 16; See Stephen’s accusation of the Jewish leaders – Acts 7:51-53).

Note: God holds all mankind, not just the Jews, responsible for the death of Christ (Acts 4:23-28; 5:28-32). You and I also are responsible for His death. Some people falsely believe that the Church has replaced Israel. [1] But God isn’t done with them yet (See Romans 11:1 ff).

The Dominant Cry Of Today in much of Christendom seems to be, “Tell us what we want to hear, not what God wants us to hear, know, and practice.” They want a “garbled Gospel” that conveys to them the idea that God was/is really lucky to get them on His side since they are such worthy and wonderful people. No! No! No! (Read Romans 3:10-23.)

The Pure Gospel is “Christ died for our sins, was buried, and rose again bodily on the third day” (1 Corinthians 15:3, 4). [2] Those who believe on the Lord Jesus Christ alone, through this message, will be saved (Acts 16:31). We are NOT saved by our good works or by our faith PLUS our good works which is taught in many “churches” and in other religions (Ephesians 2:8, 9; Titus 3:5). We are saved by grace alone, through faith alone, in the Christ of the Scriptures alone, and for God’s glory alone.

Confused. Far too many Christians who have genuinely been saved don’t understand the Bible or they think it’s very confusing and contradicts itself. Perhaps they haven’t been taught that there is a difference between “doctrines (teachings) that are to be believed and practiced,” as opposed to “doctrines (teachings) that are to be believed but not practiced” (Titus 1:9; 2 Timothy 4:1-4).

Value. From the Old Testament, Christians can learn much about the characteristics (attributes) of God which don’t change (Exodus 3:14; Hebrews 13:8), the sinful nature of man (Jeremiah 17:9), negative examples to avoid (1 Corinthians 10:1-13), and that God is trustworthy to keep the unconditional promises that He makes to people (Romans 15:4).

Promises. How many of them do you know and claim? [3] Don’t try to claim those that aren’t for you or you’ll probably become very disappointed and angry toward God. Avoid the “Health, Wealth, and Happiness Preachers” who twist the Scriptures to mislead greedy people (2 Peter 3:16).

“Dispensationalism” has been under attack for a long time even by those who claim to be “fundamentalists” (i.e. those who believe in the fundamental (basic) teachings of the Bible). “Dispensations” deal with the “Rules for Living” for people who live at different times in human history. (They are NOT different ways to be saved.) Dispensations are the result of a normal, literal, historical, grammatical interpretation of the entire Bible. Contrast “Ages.” [4]

Law, Grace, Kingdom. It’s not hard to see that the “Rules for Living” for the Jews living under “The Law” that were given to Moses on Mt. Sinai, are distinct and different from the “Rules for Living” for Christians who live under “Grace” principles. The “Rules for Living” for those who will enter Christ’s Kingdom Reign over the earth for 1,000 years (“Sermon on the Mount” Matthew 5-7) are more intense than those given to the Jews of Old Testament times (See Matthew 5:21, 22, 27, 28, 31, 32 et al).

Source. All the “Rules for Living” come from the same Source, God the Son, the Lord Jesus Christ. They are designed to prove to mankind that no matter what “Rules for Living” God imposes on some or all of mankind, they cannot please God as long as they act independently of Him (John 15:5; Romans 8:8). (See our FREE “Bible Study Book Marker”on our website for more information.) [5]

Examples: The Jews, living in Old Testament times, had a very restrictive diet (Leviticus 11). Christians under Grace are free to eat anything for which they can give thanks (1 Timothy 4:1-5). Old Testament Jews offered bloody sacrifices to God (Leviticus 1:5-15; Hebrews 9; 10); Christians offer up spiritual, non-bloody sacrifices (Romans 12:1, 2; Hebrews 13:15, 16). Israel had a priesthood that was specific to the tribe of Levi (Numbers 3:6-7), whereas all Christians are priests to God (1 Peter 2:5, 9; Revelation 1:6). There are other differences too. Law, Grace, and Kingdom Rules are very distinct from each other (Romans 6:14, 15). Knowing this can keep confusion at bay.

Non-Christians. If you’re not a Christian and would like to be saved from eternal condemnation (John 3:16, 18, 36; Romans 8:1), you must believe in/on the Lord Jesus Christ alone, Who died for your sins…and rose again bodily on the third day (Acts 16:31; 1 Corinthians 15:3, 4).

Christians. If you’ve been saved, how much spiritual growth has taken place in your life (2 Peter 3:18)? Are you a “carnal Christian” (1 Corinthians 3:1 ff) who needs to confess your sins to God and then claim His forgiveness and move on to spiritual maturity (1 John 1:9; See Hebrews 5:12-14)? Continuing to live a carnal lifestyle could lead to a premature, painful, physical death (1 Corinthians 11:30; James 5:19, 20; 1 John 5:16).

Our Purpose In Life is to glorify God (1 Corinthians 10:31) by making Him known to others so they have Someone in Whom they can believe and be saved. Having done this, we want to help young Christians be assured of their salvation (Romans 8:16; 1 John 5:13), to grow (1 Peter 2:2; 2 Peter 3:18), to serve other believers (primarily) with their spiritual gifts (1 Peter 4:10; Galatians 6:10), and to reproduce themselves (Matthew 28:19, 20; Mark 16:15; Acts 1:8).

Help. We’re here to offer assistance to those who are teachable, willing to change, and then grow spiritually (2 Timothy 2:2, 15; 3:16, 17; 2 Peter 3:18). Figuratively speaking, we’ve been through some “raging rivers” and on “rugged mountain paths.” But we’ve been comforted and encouraged by God through His Word and by some of His choice servants, and so we want to extend God’s comfort to you if you long for it (2 Corinthians 1:3, 4).

Contact. We can be reached here or through our website: www.kelseypeach.com.

If this has been a help and encouragement to you, please LIKE and SHARE it with others. To receive future articles as they come out, click on “Follow.”

[1] Replacement Theology –  https://www.gotquestions.org/replacement-theology.html

[2] Gospel Presentations –  https://kelseypeach.wordpress.com/2022/02/16/gospel-presentations/

[3] Promises – https://kelseypeach.wordpress.com/2019/04/01/promises-for-christians-to-claim-2/

[4] “Age” – “An indefinite period of time in which God gives a specific revelation of Himself designed to relate a truth concerning His nature, desires, or antipathies to His creatures. An age, therefore, may run concurrent with a dispensation or may precede or follow the dispensations (Ephesians 2:7).” – Dr. H. L. Schafer

[5] FREE Bible Study Book Marker & Dispensations Chart – https://www.kelseypeach.com/_files/ugd/08892a_ce5bb78881fa4f50a6c866dd9ab0adfe.pdf

[6] Spiritual Gifts – https://www.kelseypeach.com/bible-basics

“Sermonettes” – https://kelseypeach.wordpress.com/2018/08/10/sermonettes-for-christianettes/

Scripture taken from the New King James Version. Copyright 1982 by Thomas Nelson, Inc.  

Used by Permission. All rights reserved.

Without knowing this information, the Bible will remain a confusing Book which seems to contradict itself. God used some godly, human teachers (Ephesians 4:11-16; Hebrews 13:7, 17) to point out this truth to me that I hadn’t seen before. I’d like to share it with you. Bible reading, memorizing it, and meditating on it became a joy, not a burden or an obligation.

Within the pages of the Scriptures there are two kinds of doctrines (teachings): Those to be “believed and practiced,” and those that are to be “believed but NOT practiced.” While all the Scriptures are for (4) Christians, not all of it is addresses to (2) us.

Below you will find links to Pastor Richard Schafer’s outline and teaching on this subject and our FREE Bible Study Book Marker with our “Dispensations Chart.” You will find a link to some Gospel presentations which we hope you find helpful.

We’re here to help those who are teachable and willing to change and grow (2 Timothy 2:2; 3:16, 17). If you have questions and/or comments, we can be reached here or through our website: www.kelseypeach.com

Read: http://gracelifebaptistchurch.us/messages/richardschafer/Sunday/RSchafer_2019-09-29_TwoWordsForDoctrine.pdf

Listen: http://gracelifebaptistchurch.us/messages/richardschafer/Sunday/RSchafer_2019-09-22_TwoWordsForDoctrine.MP3

FREE Bible Study Book Marker with Dispensations Chart: https://www.kelseypeach.com/_files/ugd/08892a_ce5bb78881fa4f50a6c866dd9ab0adfe.pdf

Here is the information an unsaved person needs to know and believe to be saved: