What about marriage or the doctrine of the Old and New Covenants? America is full of them. Laodicea was also known for its medical school which concocted a spice nard for the treatment of ears and an eye salve [see Revelation 3:18, anoint your eyes with eye salve]. Perhaps it would help to think of it in those terms. If youre prone to worry yourself to sleep each night, turn your thoughts upward and close your eyes thinking of heaven and its eternal throne. When you look at Herbert W. Armstrongs work, its like a pyramid, pcg Pastor General Gerald Flurry said. But each one is tempted when he is drawn away by his own desires and enticed. As a result of searching the Scriptures, the brethren in Thessalonica believed what they were taught (Acts 17:11-12). These can be used to get an overview of a particular book, but the commentary provided can sometimes be misguided because the authors do not have the framework of Gods overall plan for man as revealed to His Church. Are You a Prisoner of Your Spiritual Comfort Zone. Armstrong International Cultural Foundation. Lets look at seven of them. It is said that you truly understand a subject when you can explain it to someone else. (From Forerunner Commentary). Richard Sibbes, DavidJeremiah.blog is part of the broadcast ministry of David Jeremiah. In Philadelphia, the Church of God has been dedicated to serving neighbors by hosting Bible seminars, family events and smile campaigns. The religions of the world teach that the law is done away. A Lydian city founded by Attalus II Philadelphus (159-138 b.c. There are hundreds of such subjects! There are also subjects like repentance, baptism, laying on of hands, the Holy Spirit, and what is a true Christian. See what over 150,000 subscribers are already receiving each day. When He was very tired? Finally, Halleys Bible Handbook is generally a good, concise resource. For everyone who asks receives, and he who seeks finds, and to him who knocks it will be opened. The Philadelphia Church of God (PCG) is a non-trinitarian, . He commands us, therefore, to [s]tudy to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth (2 Timothy 2:15). Colossians 3:5. Inside was $4,000! How can we remain steadfast in our faith and avoid the pressures of this ever-changing world? The Online Bible Study begins at 7:00 PM. For whatsoever things were written aforetime were written for our learning, that we through patience and comfort of the scriptures might have hope (Romans 15:4). Its the act of becoming too attached to the material things of the worldfalling more in love with the things on earth than on things in heaven. faithful also in much. But with Jonah, the second time was because Jonah had failed to speak Gods word the first time. Bible study is one of those assignments! The way to cover our sin is to uncover it by confession. William Gurnall, Now it came to pass in those days that [Jesus] went out to the mountain to pray, and continued all night in prayer to God. Question: "I was baptized at age 11 by a minister of a large denomination, but I didn't understand the true meaning of repentance until I began studying my Bible and hearing your broadcasts. Whatever you love more than God is your idol. Philadelphia was founded about 150 B.C. It can be found in Gods holy day plan! The Holy Spirit is the means by which the Father and the Son dwell within the adopted sons of God. When He told the man that his sins were forgiven (and by extension, he was healed), He was criticized. It is nearly 70 ms. e. of Smyrna and about the same distance n.e. Keep in mind that God cannot lie (Titus 1:2), and meditate on these promises when you need a spiritual boost! To think our temptation is unique is to believe a lie. Are we able to disprove those beliefs and prove the truth of the commandments, the Sabbath, holy days, tithing, and grace versus law from the Bible? We serve the same God who said: And the Lord, He is the One who goes before you. Gods Church has many doctrines that differ from this worlds contrived religions. They should, however, only be used to establish historical or grammatical facts. The letter to the church in Philadelphia begins with Christ identifying himself as "holy and true" (3:7). MP4 Video - low quality (170.78 MB) MP3 Audio (29.61 MB) This is the seventh part in the Bible study series: The Churches of Revelation. Each of us has responsibilities and specific assignments (study 1 Corinthians 12). Sabbath services usually last about 90 minutes. James 2:23. For more, log onto, 4 Lessons From the Philadelphia Church in Revelation, thefaithfulness of the church in Philadelphia, 4 Steps to Spiritual Awakening From Revelation, Christs Message for the Seven Churches of Revelation and Today, Revelations 7 Promises to Every Believer, Becoming a Cashless SocietyA Financial Sign of the End Times. Hensley said that the site will also prevent stagnation, which can result in enrollees quitting the course. California is a dry state that needs water to be transported over many miles to population and agricultural centers. When his thirtieth birthday came, he must have struggled with questions of why and if only.. In other words, it is Gods urgent desire that He speak to us so we can stay on track in this dying world! Focusing on a particular book of the Bible will give us a deeper insight and context for its message. Theyre building a palace for me over there. Bible study helps are not necessary to become well acquainted with the Bible and Gods way of life. It is true for us today also. This occurs largely because people keep pushing God and all He is doing out of the picture and focusing on the works of men. Booklets. His words are reliable. When language obscures a scripture, you can check a more modern translation, such as the one by James Moffatt, the Revised Standard Version or the Ferrar Fenton translation. A Bible dictionary gives information about biblical words, people, places and things. Those same words are each used in many other places in the New Testament. God doesn't tempt us, but He may allow temptation to enter our lives in order to give us opportunities to make obedient and mature choices. God may have given him only two talents, but He knows that if he is faithful with a small amount of power, in the Kingdom he will faithfully administer all of the responsibility and effectiveness that God bestows upon him. How did He react to situations when He was challenged? Jesus repeatedly said that He only did what the Father showed Him to do (John 5:19), and prayer was His means. But thankfully, Scripture gives us illustrations: Like us, Jesus suffered, experienced hunger, required sleep, ate food, and had limits on His knowledge (Mark 13:32). Herbert W. Armstrong College site allows users to study lessons, take tests online. Philadelphia, [N] [E] [H] strictly Philadelphia ( brotherly love ), a town on the confines of Lydia and Phrygia Catacecaumene, 25 southeast of Sardis, and built by Attalus II., king of Pergamos, who died B.C. Snowfall in the winter and melting snow in the spring are critical factors in replenishing shrinking reservoirs. Please refer to the table below for a sample of 40 very encouraging scriptures. Thats how He speaks to us. Commentaries are more apt to be off track than other Bible helps because the authors have more room to insert their own thoughts and ideas. He still is able to overcome. History The word Philadelphia (Revelation 3:7) means "brotherly love ." This city was built before 138 B.C. The Philadelphia period of church history (Adventist Movement), gave greatly increased attention to God's Word, particularly the prophecies of Daniel and of the Revelation, and to personal godliness, which is God's will for us during these end times we live in. But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. If we knock and keep knocking (as the Greek indicates), God opens the door. Obviously, studying the life of Jesus Christ is the best example. "Its name was given to it in honor of Attalus II, because of his loyalty to his elder brother, Eumenes II, king of Lydia. 7. One reason for these articles is to help us prepare to rule with Jesus Christ, our Husband and King. On May 5, 2001, God signaled the beginning of a new phase in this rapidly fading age of man. No one can shut that open door, though we can certainly ignore it and neglect so great a salvation (Hebrews 2:3). We know that Abraham wasnt perfect. This church may picture the modern missionary era of church history. In periods of modern droughts, aerial photographs document the receding water levels in reservoirs around the stateshorelines growing wider and drier as water levels fall. God can always be counted on to keep his promises (Titus 1:2). Jonah was a disobedient prophet. This daily newsletter provides a starting point for personal study, and gives valuable insight into the verses that make up the Word of God. Temptation. In writing about the timing of the Day of the Lord (the end of the age), Peter says God is waiting for all who will be saved to come to Him. Matthew uses the word kingdom 56 times. The website was conceived eight years ago, but underwent two long delays in the process. It is billeted as an outreach program, . Can we explain the details of the gospel, the Kingdom of God, the Millennium and Gods government? How can we benefit from lessons learned? As we study and learn to think like God, as we put into action Gods way of life, were able to handle strong meat and continue growing (Hebrews 5:13-14) until we attain the very character of God! (John 6:68). Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above .. Thats why it is important to review and study those notes. The thesis also sparked years of critical study on the Bible. Our God has given us a most valuable treasure chest filled with priceless treasurethe words of eternal life! Bible helps that focus exclusively on the meanings of words are known as wordbooks or word studies. We hope to have the opportunity to fellowship with you soon. Darris is the Associate Media Producer for the Church. He wasnt discouraged; he was looking forward to the future. But that is what forgiving someone meansrestoring relationships to the status they enjoyed before the offense took place. When we tune in to God and listen to His words, our faith increases (Romans 10:17). Life is full of hardships and heaviness. Have you ever talked with someone who just likes to talk and talk but never listen? Bible study is one of those assignments! Some people wonder about the value of the Old Testament in a Christian's life. He listed them in verses 710. Paul wanted Timothy to hold fast to the truth of God, not allowing himself to be divided. Jan. 31, 2023 The Day of Atonement The annual religious festivals that God commands true Dennis Leap Oct. 4, 2022 What Is the Feast of Trumpets? Useful knowledge will always humble us and prepare us to be in Gods Family. The Apostle John wrote about a savage persecution that tore apart God's Church in the first century. God is far more willing to save sinners than sinners are to be saved. David C. Grabbe 2 Peter 3:9. C. S. Lewis, For day and night Your hand was heavy upon me; my vitality was turned into the drought of summer. Make sure Christ is at the center of your life and that your love for Him eclipses everything else! Paul uses that image to say that Christ leads His followers in a victory procession through every difficulty in life (2 Corinthians 2:14-15). How often? As we study we get to know the mind of Godhow He thinks. The word study in this verse means to make haste and be diligent about it. Every single member of that bodyeach of us individuallyis important and necessary. John Calvin, Now I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away. The ministers have prepared what God knows we need to hearmaterial that is currently relevant and appropriate and possibly urgent. Moreover, the fruit of this interpretation has been exclusivity, comparing ourselves among ourselves, division, competition, and a pitiful supply of loveworks of the flesh rather than fruit of the Spirit. Hello golden streets, glorified bodies, endless days, and the fresh air of New Jerusalem! They loved Jesus, and Jesus was not ashamed to call them brothers (Hebrews 2:11). In these cases, topical books such as topical study Bibles, the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge (with over 500,000 scripture cross-references and parallel passages) and a book called Where to Find It in the Bible (that lists over 3,700 contemporary topics from abortion to zoology) are very useful. Therefore, if we are to experience victory in this life, it will come only as we depend on Him. Church of Philadelphia. This can often spare us the heartache of making poor choices or bad decisions. The church in Philadelphia, They have the key of david 2 Timothy 2:15 Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth. Hilton Garden Inn Philadelphia Center City Several of the organizers and members of Philly Bible Study worship with the West Philly Assembly of Christ. If so, you might be neglecting a vitally important aspect of Christian living! The apostle James argued that if temptation becomes serious, it is because we have allowed it to do so. Who doesnt want and need more faith? Best of allthese lessons are absolutely free! Books of the Bible. We have not seen many mountains moving out of their places. Study Bibles identify themes and provide outlines for each book of the Bible along with some commentary, among other things. We sponsor the global broadcast of the "Tomorrow's World" television programa weekly half-hour telecast explaining the end-time prophecies of the Bible, announcing the good news of the Kingdom of God, and spreading the teachings of Jesus Christ. When the apostle Paul wrote to his young pastoral protg, Timothy, he told him to show integrity in doctrine, to be incorruptible in belief and in actions. It was like his soul was being evaporated by the heat of his own guilt and shame. In the middle of lifes battles, were tempted to question Gods ordering of our circumstances, but every follower of Christ can look back and see the conspicuous hand of Gods Providence. Lets review a few of the many blessings that flow from studying Gods Word. we will have at least 30 scriptural passages identifying an end-time prophet who has to be on the scene just prior to Christs Second Coming. To enroll, send an email to Don_McCoy@ucg.org and request sign-up information. Launched in 1888, features include: In-depth teaching on a wide range of key Bible topics Bible-based comment on contemporary culture and current affairs Interviews with, and updates from, Christians involved in the Lord's work Personal testimonies of salvation and spiritual growth Colossians 3:1 tells us to seek those things which are above, where Christ is. In verse 5 were told to put to death the passions that come from below"fornication, uncleanness, passion, and evil desire. Then the Lord added the sin of greed or covetousness to the list, calling it idolatry. 5. As a young man, Ezekiel had dedicated himself to be a priest. Behind the city are volcanic cliffs which the locals call 'inkwells.' Practice studying the Bible each day, and you will enrich your life now and forever! 1. No one comes to the Father except through Me. Through Christ's blood, we have access to the Almighty, the Most High God. You can place your steadfast trust in Him. And he encouraged his readers not to make the same mistake he had made (verses 9-10). And it also happened to Jonah: The word of the Lord came to Jonah the first time (Jonah 1:1) and then the second time (Jonah 3:1). Mr. Armstrong said that one purpose for Church services is to instruct us sufficiently so that we can teach others in the World Tomorrow. The Church of Philadelphia. As Mr. Armstrong often said, those who have their hearts in the Work grow spiritually. The world is very confused about Satan, sin, worldliness and hell. To the angel of the church in Laodicea write: The Amen, the faithful and true Witness, the Beginning of the creation of God, says this: (NASB) First, the word, "amen," literally means "so be it.". We can talk about what He has taught us and rehearse it with Him. Hebrews 11:1, 6 "Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that . The letter to the church at Philadelphia is the one to which most current church members relate. Rather, we should think of it soberly and realisticallyhumblyand minister accordingly. But they also know that the only way to endure courageously (Revelation 3:10) is to seek the strength of God. Thus, the One they seek responds, giving more of His Spirit. The evidence shows that the Philadelphia group lacks the spiritual strength of the beginning of the Ephesian group. When Gods mandates go unfulfilled on earth, Gods glory is diminished. To think less of Gods gift would be to devalue it; to think realistically about it allows one to serve humbly. The First Great Awakening (sometimes Great Awakening) or the Evangelical Revival was a series of Christian revivals that swept Britain and its thirteen North American colonies in the 1730s and 1740s. The words rightly dividing connote making a straight cut. Of all Jesus' comments to the churches, the one to the Church of the Laodiceans is undoubtedly the most sobering and solemn. Bible Study | pastor | Enon Tabernacle Baptist Church Philadelphia PA A Place Where People Encounter God Family Fellowship and Bible Study Reverend Dr. Alyn E. Waller, Senior. God has seen to it that His Church is well-fed. If we neglect Bible study, however, we simply cannot grow sufficiently to be born into His Family. They have two sons, who are both married, and four grandchildren. As Peter wrote, we look for a new earth in which righteousness dwells (2 Peter 3:13). The Christians victory is through Christ. Privacy Policy, Then God blessed them, and God said to them, Be fruitful and multiply; fill the earth and subdue it; have dominion over the fish of the sea, over the birds of the air, and over every living thing that moves on the earth. 138. Note for example what the Holman Bible Dictionary says about Laodicea: Laodicea was well known in the ancient world for its wealth [see Revelation 3:17]. Is it difficult for you to get really excited about your future? How did you feel? He did for us what we cannot do for ourselves. The church at Smyrna, the church at Philadelphia were faithful, godly, loyal, effective. After Herbert W. Armstrong, founder of Worldwide Church of God, died at age of 93 (January 16, 1986), Gerald Flurry (born April 12, 1935 and a minister in WCG since 1973, 1 was one of those that disagreed with the new changes that Pastor General Joseph W. Tkach, Sr. began instigating. By giving the Spirit, He gives more of Himself. Join Kelly Minter in this 7-session Bible study as she unpacks the biblical foundation for these sacred habits along with approachable ways to practice disciplines like prayer, study, worship, rest, simplicity, generosity, celebration, and many . Tmolus. The 'Open Door' of Philadelphia, There is criticism or maybe it is simply a statement of fact. If our prayers are getting stale and were running out of things to say, maybe were not listening enough. (Part 5). Start today! We continue looking at the seven messages in Revelation 2-3. from Jesus to the churches of Asia. 1 Corinthians 15:58. Sometimes the scriptures that relate to a specific subject are not easily found in a concordance because the subject is broader than just one word used in the Bible. The "church in Philadelphia," along with the "church in Smyrna," are the only two churches (of the seven mentioned) about which Jesus had nothing negative to say. The moment we resolve to stand strong and walk away is when temptation grows most intense. For decades, the church interpreted Revelation 3:7 to mean the church had "God's government," and the ministry too often wielded this club with a heavy hand (Ezekiel 34:1-10; Jeremiah 23:1-3). Its not just about Christian living today but also about the kind of character Christ is looking for in those He will need to rule with Him. Bible | Philadelphia Church of God Just How 'New' Is New Year's? What he opens no one can shut, and what he shuts no one can open. Through study of Gods Word, we gain wisdom that helps us avoid sin and the misery that accompanies it. Far from suggesting that the Philadelphians are going to heaven, the chapter reiterates the fact of their access to the One in heaven. You know the storyJonah ended up in the sea where he was swallowed by a great fish. This king had a special devotion to his brother, Eumenes II. Where is there hope today? Goodbye trials and troubles. We have the promises of God to help us in difficult days, and we have the Holy Spirit within us. Is it Christ? They do have good characteristics, but they are weak. Oh, to see the glory of the Lord while in the midst of the disappointments in life. How the church actually got started is unknown. Other biographies worthy of study are noted in Hebrews 11the faith chapter. He spoke of looking forward to these things. and [looking] for new heavens and a new earth in which righteousness dwells (2 Peter 3:13-14). Topics, or specific subjects. 89 The Greatest Questions. He and his wife, Debbie, have served in the ministry for more than 43 years. Please browse around our website for various information about our church. EDMONDIndividuals who want to learn about the Bible can now do so online, as the 36-lesson Herbert W. Armstrong College Bible Correspondence Course went live this afternoon. A real living hope can sure make the difference in how we handle lifes problems and what perspective we maintain. We should be able to explain each doctrine in terms of what, why, when, who, where and how. Jonah repented and called on the Lord and was delivered. 2 Peter 1:13-14, NIV. But then the rains of grace came and David confessed his sin and God forgave him (verse 5). The hardest part of forgiving another person isacting like the offense never occurred. A fifth reason for studying the Bible is to be able to do God's Work. This is most helpful when studying a particular doctrine or topic. Well enough to teach them to others? Transcript of the news story that aired in November 2008 on Fox 25. Daniels three friends in Babylon demonstrated integrity when they were threatened with being burned alive (Daniel 3:16-18). Why Would Anyone Accept the Mark of the Beast? History of Philadelphia Church of God. It happened to Samuel, Jeremiah, Ezekiel, Haggai, Zechariah, and others. . This article will show you that studying your Bible may be just the remedy you need! Often modern translations have been rendered from faulty translations, rather than original texts. If pride expands ones importance, does humility deflate ones importance? [It] was rebuilt without the financial help of Rome after the disastrous earthquake of a.d. 60. The more we let Gods Word correct our natural carnal thinking, the more we are fashioned into Gods image and prepared to be born into His eternal Family. Note the qualities He exhibited and ask yourself how you would act and how you should act, according to His example. SERVICE TIMES SUNDAYS AT 8:00 & 10:30AM 200 W. WILLOW STREET LAFAYETTE, LA 70501 A MESSAGE FROM PASTOR OMAR COME AS YOU ARE 2 Corinthians 11:13-14 For such are false apostles, deceitful workers, transforming themselves into the apostles of Christ. Jesus said He was going to prepare a place for you if you belong to Him (John 14:1-4). Our Bible study should always lead us to Fear God, and keep His commandments: for this is the whole duty of man (Ecclesiastes 12:13). Although Philadelphia is the only church as a whole that Jesus promises to rescue from the hour of temptation, He reveals that among those taken to heaven will be some from Sardis (Rev. If someone compliments you on a job well done, do you refuse to take credit or receive their compliment? It surely evoked deep introspection among the believers in that ancient city and, we trust, a repentant spirit. We tend to think of the Philadelphians as being without fault because Christ does not make a pointed and detailed listing of their sins. Somehow, at the end of the age, when Christ has returned to reign and inaugurate the eternal state, this earth will be renovated and a new earth will be the resulta new earth full of righteousness in which pain and sorrow will be absent. This is what He compliments them for being, meaning they have a commendable measure of obedience. Stephen Flurry Article on Fear Winds Down the Wrong Road. How we study the Bible is an indication of how much we are yielding to God and the work He is doing through us. The letter to Philadelphia is not about the mighty works of powerful men. . It was named as the Seven Churches of the Apocalypse. But how about a book titledThe Righteous Father? And that mandate extends to our personal life as well. 'Freely you have receivedfreely give ' We want to share God's truth with as many who want to receive it. name of his foundation means "brotherly love.". W. A. Criswell, Now the word of the Lord came to Jonah the second time, saying, Arise, go to Nineveh, that great city, and preach to it the message that I tell you. Almighty God's words say, " The church of Philadelphia has taken shape, which is entirely due to the grace and mercy of God. Whether we realize it or not, it is part of our past, and it will be part of our future. To what things was Paul referring? Revelation 3:7, however, is clear that the key of David belongs, not to the church, but to the One who is holy and true, Jesus Christ. So we study to be corrected. Wayne Turgeon Dec. 30, 2022 What Is the Unpardonable Sin? It will happen. Reviews on Bible Study in Roxborough, Philadelphia, PA 19128 - Citylight Church, Christian Stronghold Baptist Church, Lancaster Bible College - Capitol Seminary & Graduate School, House Of Faith Ministries PA, First Haitian Church Of God In Philadelphia When you see opportunities to care for creationnature or your own bodydo so as a way of glorifying the Creator. E. M. Bounds, All of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, because, God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble. Flurry said. We now study the second last message addressed to Philadelphia, the faithful church (Revelation 3:7-13). How did He stay on track and endure? Thats the way He cares for us tooevery day, all year long, always. A Place of Safety? WELCOME, to Philadelphia Christian Church where we worship in spirit and in truth. Dont let your past keep you from trusting God for a second (or third, or fourth) chance. The key of David Those who attain that level of character will be able to serve as kings! That enables us to trust Him more easily, and our faith builds. That in turn enables the Church to have more of an impact in doing Gods Work! When His friends let Him down? What does God think of that? 7 "To the angel of the church in Philadelphia write: These are the words of him who is holy and true, who holds the key of David. As our lives center on God, giving priority to hearing His voice and reading His Word, we become bolder in sharing our faith. Could any father set a more worthy example to his children or grandchildren than that of being friends with God? You are welcome to join us for worship (10 AM) and a period of Bible study (11:30 AM). Unlike the other letters to the churches in Revelation 2 and 3, correction is not to be found. The major weakness of Laodicea was its lack of a water supply. In the description of New Jerusalem, the gate is open only to those whose names are written in the Book of Life (Revelation 21:27; 22:14). Doesnt it make sense to take notes and study them later? Then review them at least one more time, perhaps the following Sabbath before services. ), the king of Pergamum. We can develop an overview of why it was written, its major theme or themes and an outline. In his vision of the future, the apostle John saw that new heaven and a new earth, our new domain being pictured as the New Jerusalem coming down out of heaven from God (Revelation 21:1-2). Special News Report on Philadelphia Church of God. 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March 14, 2023