THROUGH THE BIBLE IN THREE YEARS
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(Thanks to Benton for the joke!)
A man was in his early 50's and on a second career. His boss noted that the man was a very good worker, and very good at dealing with every circumstance.
But he just couldn't seem to arrive at work on time. Every day he was 5, 10 or sometimes 15 minutes late. The boss finally decided to call him in for a talk.
"Tom, I have to tell you, I like your work ethic, you do a bang up job, but you're being late so often is quite bothersome."
"Yes, I know Boss, and I'm working on it."
"Well good, you are a team player: That's what I like to hear: It's odd though, you coming in late. I know you're retired from the Air Force. What did they say if you came in late there?"
"They said, "Good morning, General"."
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2 Tim 2:19
Nevertheless the foundation of God standeth sure, having this seal, The Lord knoweth them that are his. And, Let every one that nameth the name of Christ depart from iniquity.
KJV
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What is the "foundation of God" given to believers that "standeth sure" and secures our faith? It is that:
"the Word was made flesh and dwelt among us" (John 1:14), and that "God was in Christ , reconciling the world unto himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them" (2 Cor 5:19).
It is that:
"Christ also hath once suffered for sins, the just for the unjust, that he might bring us to God," (1 Peter 3:18) and that "the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed." (Isa 53:5).
In a word, we might say the "foundation of God" that "standeth sure" for believers is the decree written by God of substitutionary atonement. He has written it in the Bible and signed it in His own blood! The decree itself, therefore, stands as firm as God's eternal throne!
AND, the decree is sealed! The seal God has put upon this Gospel is that "The Lord knoweth them that are his." The Greek word used for "knoweth" is ginosko, meaning ABSOLUTELY! God KNOWS those who have surrendered to Him, and has adopted them into the family of God by Christ Jesus. "But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name: Which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God." ( John 1:12-13)
Let us then, who are believers of it, stand sure IN this Gospel. Let us stand firmly in faith against all deceit and trickery of the devil, and against all those who discount the Truth. Let our hearts and minds be secure in that the "foundation of God" "standeth sure."
Let us also stand sure BY this Gospel. Let us live exemplary lives before others. Naming the precious Name of Christ as our Redeemer, let us "depart from iniquity." Let us live lives in faith and character which demonstrates that faith.
Love ya,
Bruce