Lory

Q2. (Matthew 6:33) What does it mean in verse 33 to

Q1. (Matthew 6:24) Jesus seems to make it sound like you can

Q4. 1.What did Jesus intend the Parable of the Soils to teach us about the

Q3. (Matthew 13:23) Even good soil can have factors that hinder growth in various parts of the field, or make some areas grow taller and fuller wheat. 1.What factors make a disciple especially good soil for the growth of the word or message of the Kingdom? Shalom, OBEDIENCE to Christ makes our "soils" grow for God's Kingdom. We must have a humble, teachable and childlike attitude in faith. John 5:39-40 39You diligently study the Scriptures because you think that by them you possess eternal life. These are the Scriptures that testify about Me, 40yet you refuse to come to Me to have life." Faith comes by hearing God's Truth, that we receive in Christ, through faith and prayer. We must receive Christ into our whole being, and have faith that there's power from on High to help us be victorious for God's Kingdom. We are to be so close to Christ, similar to symbolically drinking His blood and eating His flesh, becoming one in Him. His words must live in us, His thoughts, His mind, through the Holy Spirit. It is through Christ that we can recieve forgiveness and reconciliation to the Father and then be able to live by the laws of God's righteousness that's in His Son. John 5:24"I tell you the truth, whoever hears my word and believes Him who sent me has eternal life and will not be condemned; he has crossed over from death to life." 2. What might be the reasons for 30-fold, 60-fold, and 100-fold growth? Fruitbearing is not something we can do on our own, without Christ we can do nothing. John 15:16-17 16 You have not chosen me, but I have chosen you, and ordained you, that ye should go and bring forth fruit, and that your fruit should remain: that whatsoever ye shall ask of the Father in my name, he may give it you." The fruit will come if we remain in Christ, "that whatsoever you shall ask the Father in My name, He may givt it to you." You actually have access to the Father and can ask for His will to be done, for His strength, for His favor, for the blind to see, healing, etc. Amen? Amen! The proof of Christ Spirit living in us, would be Love, Joy and Peace, Long suffering, Gentleness and Goodness,Faith, Meekness and Temperance. John 15:2 Every branch in me that beareth not fruit he taketh away: and every branch that beareth fruit, he purgeth it, that it may bring forth more fruit. It is through God's Son that we bear fruit and if we are truly living in Christ we will bear fruit by the power in God. God's abundant Life is in His Son, Jesus Christ, and if we truly desire to be fruitful for the Kingdom, we will obey His commands. Next time you want to yell and fight with your neighbors, think what would Jesus do? Jesus would say, "remain in my love." We have a choice every moment to obey and glorify God. Praise and glory be to God forever! Amen. God bless, Lory

Q2. (Matthew 13:22; Luke 8:14) Which of the thorns that Jesus mentions do you think is the most dangerous: Riches, worries/cares, or pleasures? Shalom, In my opinion, the most dangerous would be Riches. Riches is dangerous because some people rely solely upon their riches more than their need for God. How can someone love God with all their heart and mind and soul,if they love their riches and comforts more? We can't serve God and money. Riches have an earthly mindset,its focus is on the things and pleaures of the world and not on the things of God. Those who are of the world,have a pride,and rely on their riches to give them security and those things becomes their god. Some people are deceived into thinking because of their riches they can buy their way into heaven. Having Riches is similar to having a false power, they put all their trust, thinking they receive power from their riches, never thinking they are in need of a saving power for the soul that comes from a Saviour. Riches can't save you, but Jesus can. Where ever your treasure lies, there your heart will be. Some people sell their souls for riches, spending all their time at the job,acummilating more money, instead of spending more quality time with their families. Jesus told the rich man, "go and sell all your possesions and then come follow me." The rich man looked very sad, because he had a lot of stuff that he was unwilling to let go of. Was this rich man willing to give up everything for God? Are we willing to give up everything for God. Jesus said, "it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of an needle,than for a rich man to enter the Kingdom of God."The desire for riches in this life, is the hardest thing to give up, we must have more desire and a burning in our hearts for the riches of God. 2.Why do you think so? Trusting heavily in your Riches, instead of fully trusting in the things of God, will lead you into a sure fall, the world's systems are falling away, there are no guarantees in this world for security apart from God, and when you lose it all, where will you be? If you trusted in your riches you will be literally bandrupt in the material world, and if one is without God, one will be completely lost with no understanding of the spiritual realities and benefits that are in God,that secures our souls. When you trust in God, you must be willing to give up the worldly ideals, and simplify whatever needs to be straightened out. God will provide. As for the worries and cares, Jesus did say,"28Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. 29Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. 30For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light. Mathew 11:28-30 These parables are to help Christ disciples recognize that there is a devil that snatches the truth from us when we are weak, that everyone in the world faces and struggles with everyday. We are to be aware of the pitfalls and obstacles that keep us unfruitful, no one can break into a strong mans house. When I look at these different soils, it shows me how far I've come in my own faith. Faith in Christ is a journey, a discovery of a new world, a world so amazing. The Kingdom of heaven is within us and only the heart can see it or enter into Him. We are to be on guard, guard our hearts, minds, souls and keep the faith and trust in God no matter what our circumstances are. Much love, shalom, Lory

Q1. (Matthew 13:20-21) 1.Why, according to Jesus teaching here, do some people fall away so quickly? Hello, heartfelt greettings, shalom. When someone receives the Word with joy, it's because it's good news, we are being saved from the darkness, Praise the Lord!!! But if one continues to listen and hear the Word of God, you will start to notice that there's something required from every true believer. God's Word isn't all warm and fuzzy, there's a cost to living in God's will and it's the surrender of our very own lives that will be required. People fall away quickly because of the Word, they don't want to let go of their sins and allow God to change their hearts for the purification of the flesh so that God's Holy Spirit can fully rule through us. God's Word convicts us of sin, of righteousness, and of faith. Jesus says "when trouble and persecution comes because of the Word, he falls away." We will be persecuted because of the Word. The Word is like a piercing sword, it's the sword of truth, it purges, cleanses all unrighteouness, exposes the darkness, this experience can be very painful to someone who isn't deeply rooted in Christ. Therefore, if they have no understanding of the Truth that's in Christ, they will not be able to stand and be victorious for Christ. As our faith becomes rooted in Christ, faith in Him gives us the power to sustain the pressures of living a holy life, without Christ's Holy Spirit it's impossible. It is the Holy Spirit who activates our faith, but if we don't believe in Christ, our faith will never come into full maturity. Our faith falls away because we have no root in the Truth, we need Christ to rule over every detail of our lives, minds and hearts. In Christ we have been given strength and power to withstand the fiery arrows of satan and his demons. When the Word is being taught, shared, or lived, there will be different levels of persecution,possibly death and even torment. Many people who are so/so committed to Christ through a concept, who have not entered into a living relationship with Christ, will not be able to stand in the Truth. 2.What is their problem? When the persecution arises, people immediately become afraid of losing their lives, they are unwilling to give up their place of comfort here on earth in exchange for the true life that's in God through His Son Jesus Christ. They have not fully believed, nor have strong faith in Christ. They are still caught up in their flesh, afraid to die to the Self.We must abide in Christ and have His Word abide in us as the Word gives nourishment to the soul and guides us into all Truth,which is God. Or else suffer the consequences of continuing to be in bondage to sin. God's peace be with you and upon your families, in Jesus name, Lory

Warm greetings everyone, wishing you a beautiful day. Shalom, Q4. 1. Why is repentance so central to the Kingdom of God? Repentance is so central to the kingdom of God, because by repenting you say you are willing to open your heart and trust in a new reality that's in God, but in order to receive the new reality that's in God through Jesus Christ, you have to be willing to give up your old realtiy of being. This can very frustrating to do for some people, because we have been told so many lies from the day we were born, for some people it's hard to believe and trust in the Kingdom of God. We must have the willingness to trust in God's possibilities and if we don't change from the old and become like little children, we won't be able to enter the Kingdom of God or even see the Kingdom. We must be born again through God's Holy Spirit. Imagine, that you have been living for years in a dark prison, a life of bondage, with disease, suffering, pain, chaos, living like a tree without water, all dried up, without hope or any chance of seeing any life ever, you are stuck in a dark pit. Then one day someone comes along, and opens the door and shines a light down the hole and says, "make your paths straight, someone is coming to free you out of this pit, prepare for Him, He's coming to give you life, an abundant life full of hope, a new life greater than you could ever imagine, an amazing Kingdom, get ready to leave this pit." Then the person who was stuck in the pit, starts to question, "what life or Kingdom is he talking about, this is my life here in the pit, the stench is fine, my pain and suffering and deterioating bones are fine, what life could he possibly be talking about?" The person has to decide, am I willing to trust this man, stay in the pit of this dark life or be willing to turn towards the light and be delivered into God's Kingdom, but there's a catch, you can't take your old way of being with you, you have to surrender everything to God. We can't serve 2 masters, God and mammon. God has given us freewill, God will not force anyone out of the pit, it's by the person's choice to come, see and hear. Repentance is the willingness of the first step towards God's Kingdom. 2.Why is baptism important to converts to the King? When we decide to be baptize, it's a decision we make to trust in God's son, showing the dedication and seriousness of being adopted into God's family, becoming the body of Christ, as Jesus is the Head and we are His body, and having a sincere desire to become cleansed through the blood of Jesus. It's an outward symbol of our faith to Jesus and a testimony to those around us. 3.Can Christ reign in an unrepentant heart? In order for Christ to reign through us, one must believe and have faith in Jesus, deny themselves, take up their cross/staff and follow Him. An unrepentant heart is unwilling to turn from their old way of thinking and being and so therefore won't be able to see the Kingdom. The Kingdom of God is about the authority we have been given in Christ. We reign with Christ through God's power and authority and without a changed heart, it's not possible. An unrepentant heart will not believe or have faith, because they refused to hear the message and be changed, so how can they work with Christ, when they never knew Him or given Him a chance to heal them. A repentant heart knows they need a saviour, they know they can not free themselves and are willing to learn of Jesus, turn from sin and believe His Words. When we first come to Jesus, we are like little babies, it's like we are being taught all over again, but this time it's with God's Holy Spirit, the Spirit of Truth, sent by Christ Jesus. As we continue to believe and receive Christ words into our hearts as the Holy Spirit reveals it to us, and accept His words, abiding in Him and He in us, we eventually become mature christians, overcomers, all by the power of God. Praise the Lord, hallelujah! God's blessings be with you, love, Lory

Q3. (Matthew 3:11) What is the point of comparison between Johns action and the Messiahs action? Hi Everyone, many heartfelt greetings, shalom!!! A.John's action was to get people to think about their current situation, to be baptized into a new understanding of life that is to come, and prepare people to turn away from their sins and be ready to hear the good news through the Messiah,Jesus Christ. B.Jesus's actions was to give the Holy Spirit to all those who sincerely desire to receive and believe in His name, to give power and life to become the sons and daughters of God, through faith in Him. 2. What is the point of difference? A.The baptism of John was with water only, no blood or the name of Jesus was used for the remission of sins. John's baptism was a demonstration, symbolic of what was to come through the Holy Spirit, that would purify and cleanse us from all unrighteousness. One must be willing to see, hear and receive the good news before it can truly take effect in our lives. B. Jesus not only taught about the coming Kingdom, but showed the people that the Kingdom of Heaven was upon them now, through Him. That we are to repent,(turn from our old ways of thought and hear the new way) confess our sins,(be honest with ourselves and recognize we are bankrupt without a Saviour), and be healed, (receive the good news.) We must learn of Christ, beleive in what Christ says, abide in His Words, drink and eat His Life, follow Christ, deny ourselves, have faith in Christ, and trust in HIm for our Salvation. He will send us the Holy Spirit and fire. The Holy Spirit is the power of God that enables us to be transformed into a son or daughter, and the fire is the power that cleanses us from all unrighteousness through having faith in Jesus Christ. Follow Jesus and you will no longer be walking in darkness. 3. Do you really long to be overwhelmed by the Holy Spirit? That's a very interesting question. When I was first baptized at 15, I knew I was a sinner, I knew that I badly needed Jesus Christ and I believed that He could wash my sins and make me clean. I remember,as I was being immersed int water, I heard clearly the name of the Father, the Son and Holy Spirit, but I especially remember the name of Jesus Christ, it was so loud in my head. After I was immersed with water, I felt clean and renewed. Something felt different inside of me, I knew I was forgiven, etc. For three days I couldn't think of anything else but God through Jesus Christ, no matter what I did, God was the first thing upon my mind,thoughts, heart, I wanted more of Him. I even asked my mother, "what is this huge overtaking that's coming upon me?" and she couldn't give me any answers. Only that she was getting worried and thought that I was being a little obsessed on God. It was somewhat frustrating not having someone to talk with about it and because it was so personal, especially from the response of my mother, that I couldn't talk to anyone else thinig they might think the same. Something new was diffinitely happening to me, it was good, but I had questions. There was an abundance of thirst and a hunger for God that I never knew, but at the same time I didn't know how to deal with it, perhaps how to receive it. To be overwhelmed by the Holy Spirit is something that one should never take lightly, it's very real, and if you are not equipped with the knowledge of God's word of what exactly is happening to you, it can be confusing,scary (because of the unknown feelings that arise up within you.) If I could compare what happened then and now in my adult life,now I have learned more about Christ, and I know who He is, this experience is similare to some of my reocurring dreams I 've been having, it's like Christ living in your mind and it's not Me the ego living in me anymore, but at least in my dream it makes sense now, but at the same time, my ego/flesh is freaking out, because the voice in my head is saying, "I am the Christ." and the flesh is saying, "how can you say that, that's blasphemous." It must be the war going on inside of us between the flesh and the Spirit. 4.What might prevent this in your life? FEAR, the ego is resistent to the spirit, the flesh is afraid to lose what it thinks it knows or what it has believed about itself for so long, etc. There's a literal death that needs to take place in the flesh and personally I'm still not ready to let go and let God take full control over everything. I'm afraid and yet I know there's no fear in Love. Everyday I'm a step closer to going all the way. I do experience the fruit of the Spirit everyday, His joy, love, peace, long suffering, forgiveness and the conviction not to sin. 5.What might encourage it? Going into deep Prayer, and having more faith and trust believing in God to provide full understanding, to be equipped to receive His Power. God will not send us out there in the world like loose canons, nor will He send us out powerless, that's why there's discipling, study of His Word, it's truly powerful and not a game. It's a descison that we must make. God bless and much love to everyone. Shalom, Lory

Q2. (Matthew 3:5-10; Luke 7:30) How would John’s baptism have offended a Jew’s national pride? Shalom, Before I can comment on the Jew's national pride, I would need to know the background of those governing Spiritual/polictical control over the Jewish people, in particular the Pharisees and the Saduccess> (there was also the Romans, Herod, the Essenes that had their place in the arena.) A.Who were the Pharisees? The Pharisees were very zealous for the Law of Moses, but they also considered themselves the guardians of the oral traditions that scholars developed over generations. The oral traditions interpreted the Law of Moses. The Pharisees had great zeal for God. The average Pharisee fasted two days a week and paid his tithes to the penny. Yet, their zeal for God did not lead them to God but away from God. They examined the Law to the smallest detail and yet their hearts where far from God's heart. B.Who were the Saduccess?The Sadducees were of the wealthy ruling class in Jesus day. Many of them comprised the priesthood that controlled the temple in Jerusalem and the Jewish legal council called the Sanhedrin. They were in some ways more conservative than the Pharisees. They only recognized the Torah as the inspired word of God. They acknowledged neither the prophets nor the oral traditions that came after the first five books of the Bible. Consequently, they did not believe in the resurrection or any life after death. They were often at odds with the Pharisees over this matter. Here is John, yelling in the desert, "repent for the Kingdom of Heaven is at hand! Make ready the way of the Lord, make his paths straight." He's teaching repentance, that the Jews need to turn away from their sins and wash themselves clean through baptism for the coming Messaiah. This wwas highly offensive to the religious rulers. He's preparing the people to receive the good news. He's telling the people, "sinners,you have to change and if you change you will be forgiven," making sure they have a sincere repentance. YOu can see that that message didn't sit well with the Pharisees and why their pride was offended, because they beleived they were all ready perfect. They followed the law to the smallest detail and didn't believe they needed to be saved. They showed their outside works by following the letter of the law, but were not living the truth of God that was suppose to be living in their hearts, to love God and to love one's neighbor. And as for the Saduccess, they didnt' believe in a coming Kingdom, they believed in the here and now, do good, live good, do the best you can, and that was all there was for them. YOu can see that the message of John's baptism was off line to what the religious rulers believed, "baptism for the forgiveness of sins?", was blasphemous. Was it the Pharisees that said to Jesus, "only God can forgive sins?" As we see later in the bible, Jesus was healing and ministering to those who came to Him who were sick and perishing in need of healing, "your sins are forgiven." 2. Who welcomed John's baptism? Before I can asnwer who welcomed John's baptism, I need to have some background information; What was the the Jewish normal baptism compared to John's? The Jews had their ceremonial cleansings too, etc. John's baptism was an adaptation of the mikvah, or ritual immersion bath, that had been part of Jewish life for generations and symbolized a spiritual cleansing. It was used to consecrate a new beginning. Jewish men took a mikvah each Sabbath. Women took a mikvah after each monthly period. On Yom Kippur the High Priest took 7 mikvot (plural of mikvah) during the ceremonies. Some people are confused when they see Jesus coming for baptism with John, it was not for the remission of His sins, as Jesus was perfect, but was the mikvah to symbolized the spiritual cleansing for His ministry, then soon after,the Holy Spirit leads Jesus out into the desert to be tempted for 40 days and nights. John incorporated mikvah to all the people in the surrounding regions, to be baptized as a symbol to show that they need to turn from their sins, change their minds (repent) about their need for a Savior and were taking a new direction regarding their salvation. No longer would they focus on keeping the Law but would look instead to the coming promised Redeemer/Mesaiah whose arrival John was announcing. Once Jesus's minsitry began, John's baptism of repentance was no longer needed, so it became a symbol of the believer's death and re-birth. The people that welcomed John's baptism were, common folks, soldiers, Publicans, wealthy people, tax collectors, and gentiles who were converted to Judiaism, and etc. 3. Who resisted and why?The ones who resisted were the ones who thought they were all ready saved and didn't have need a saviour or no need to change their sinful life, etc. (Herod and his family, Pharisees, Saducees,gentiles, etc.) anyone who was proud of themselves and their sins, and on how good they were, etc. Why, because they love their sins more than coming into the light, so that Jesus can heal them. God bless you everyone, shalom, Lory

Q1. What happens when people adopt the Christian faith without repenting of their known sins? Shalom everybody!!! I think it's really important to first to understand why we are in sin. Since the fall of mankind that came through Adam, the world has been in bondage to Satan, that enslaves the souls of Man. The strong hold that is upon Mankind is so strong we cannot free ourselves. Lucifer took 1/3 of the angels with him to the earth, and his kingdom and reign dwells in the world. Everyday we humans live in this pit,the worldy system. We have learned to take on the characteristics of Lucifer and our desires are always drivin in wickedness. We sin because the father of sin, Satan, occupies everything in the world and blinds our eyes to the Truth. Our battles are not against flesh and blood, but against powers and principalites who are very strong. Through Jesus Christ, the mighty hand of God intervened upon humanity, in God's great and amazing mercy sent His Son to show us the way out of the pit of death, to a life of milk and honey. How can a person living in the pit ever believe in God's amazing promises and benefits when they have been living and blinded in darkness since the day they were born? They know not the truth, only lies from the father of satan. We must turn away (repentance) from satan's ways and thoughts or else die in our sins, that's the reality of our situation. The Truth through Jesus Christ is being offered to all Mankind, it's a free gift to anyone who is willing to believe in the Truth. There is only one way to receive Christ Truth and that is through Faith. Without Faith we can not please God or even enter into His resting place and peace. Faith takes us towards repentance, allowing one's mind and will to go towards the life that's in Christ, through God's Holy Spirit. Before we can even be adopted into the Christian faith, one needs to make a decision, a choice, who are they going to believe and serve? The Words of Christ that comes from the Father, or to continue to live in the reality of the father of lies. Repentance is turning away from the old thought of being, of doubt, wickedness, selfishness, etc. and embracing the Truth of the reality of God that's in Jesus Christ which is through Faith. The reason why we have a hard time of repenting of our former life is because we don't really believe in Christ, we hold on to a concept, instead of believing in the reality of His message. If we desire victory, we must be willing to hear the good news and as we hear the good news, our faith in Him grows, but it won't grow if we are unwilling to submit our wills to hear the Truth and this takes us to turn away from the former things and lies. If we believed in Jesus we would follow Him and know the Truth and the Truth will set us free. In order to have faith in Christ, we must say goodbye to our old ways of thinking.If we are unwilling to repent from our former way of thinking and being, we will not experience the fullness that's in Christ, the abundant life. Sin and God do not go together, we must decide, we can't serve 2 masters. 2.Why do people avoid repentance? Because they know not the Truth,they don't fully believe yet, they are still blinded by the darkness and have not accepted the message of Light. They would rather hold on to the lies, what they have known since the day they came into this world, instead of turning towards something that will give them the true life that's in God. The darkness can not comprehend the Light, it's all foolishness. 3.What percentage of Christians today do you think are unrepentant, unprepared in heart? I think there's 80% unrepentant christians today, because the full message of Christ is not being taught, the Word is being milked down, changed, and many people are becoming confused about the faith. Jesus came with Grace and Truth and it's the Truth that is being taken out of the gospel. It's not warm and fuzzy, it's a sword piercing in your soul. This huge and amazing gift God desires for us to recieve is more amazing than anything we could ever imagine, but we have to want it, and ask for it. Jesus talks about asking for the Holy Spirit, and the Father would give Him to whoever would ask. If you are asking for the Holy Spirit, you will be changed, but again people don't really want to change for the better, they want a quick fix or something, but not the real deal, a transformed heart. God bless and shalom, Lory

What does it mean: Let your "yes" be yes and your "no" be no? I believe this is a rudimentary lesson on learning to bridle the tongue. We do make oaths and swear by God. As a result we offend and lie and show our neighbors that our words are meaningless, empty So many times our words condemn us, we end up making promises we can't keep. Yes and No are straight up answers, there's nothing hidden in those two words, our intentions are very clear and to the point. Such simple responses helps us to keep honest. Anything more we say can lead us into sin. If we obeyed this command, what would be the result in our speaking? The result would be, intentional living unto God, keeping us honest with everyone around us. By keeping our simple, Yes and No, we won't become or let ourselves get tangled up in satans lies and schemes. We won't make promises we can't keep. We can be honest with others. There was a time long ago when I felt guilty to say No. I didn't like to let anyone down. Only to find me hating myself later on and falling deeper into sin. I not only lied to myself, but I lied to God, ouch!!! Needless to say my life was filled with a lot of pain. As we receive God's word, He is the truth and He gives us the strength to do and live right, to say those simple "yes' and No's. Praise be to God! In our credibility? We will start becoming a people who "say what we mean" and "do what we say." A people with integrity. Living right brings glory to God. God's blessings be with you. Love, Lory

1.What can you do to extend Christ's healing love to someone who is struggling in his or her marriage? First thing would be to pray to God for wisdom and strength for myself and the two individuals. Take time for them, be present with them and let them know you care. Be willing to listen to their pain, comfort them in their sorrow, pray without ceasing. Extend mercy and lead them back to the truth about the love and will of God. (Many husbands and wives don't understand what God's marriage is about, it's so much different than the world's idea) SEcond thing, ask the Pastor of your church to put on a Rekindling Marriage retreats, give them a chance to rediscover their dreams from their youth, talk things out, confess what's hurting, learn to listen, learn to take an interest in your spouse again, how to make the most of their marriage, that they are ONE, not two, etc. There should be no judgement or guilt trips layed on them, give them time to heal and let God do His mighty work. God's mighty power can deliver us from any problem if we are willing to start again and forgive. Some people have deeply rooted wounds from the past that are covered with so much layers of dead skin, only God truly understands and can save them. 2.What can you do to bring healing to someone who is or was divorced? Allow the hope of Christ to keep filling their lives. Keep extending love and compassion towards them and all those who have gone astray, all sin is the same to God. Keep encouaraging one another towards the love and Truth of God that's in Christ Jesus. We have all fallen short of the glory of God, there is not one person in this world without sin. Whenever one feels so holy and wonderful, we must always remember that all of us had to come to the feet of Jesus, we who have been saved must also be willing to extend the same mercy as God has shown us. God showed us that we were bankrupt, our hearts were far away from Him, where before we were dead without hope, but now we have been given the hope of Jesus Christ that lives in us. All things are possible with God. Glory and praise be to God! Amen! God bless, Lory

1.(Matthew 19:9) Does a person who has remarried after a divorce that wasn't caused by marital unfaithfulness, live in a perpetual state of adultery?God is showing that making a vow is a serious action and is not to be taken lightly. One who has been divorced will always be looking back at his past life with his or her ex spouse, saying and thinking always, good and bad things about them. There is an invisible bond that will always be in their midst, almost like a shadow. What God establishes in marriage is something sacred and chances are when you start on a renewed life with a new mate, it will be difficult to have peace because in your new relationship there will be him, her, ex wife in one's head, it's something you easily can't erase. It's almost like you will be cheating on your new wife, because you will be dividing your thoughts. Jesus came to restore Truth, to help us turn back to God. He showed that God is real and very much alive. All the 10 commandments are the rudimentery lessons of obedience, if we can't be trusted in the rudimentery commands of God, how will He trust us with heavenly things and power. It is God's good pleasure to bless HIs children. Jesus shows us the necessary steps to get right with God, repentance, turn away from the past way of living and thinking, and have obedience by doing what needs to be done. The Bible reproves, guides and help us to see our sinful nature. When will we stop sinning and turn away from those things that are displeasing to God? We need to hear and do what Jesus says, allow Christ to dwell in our hearts. 2.Should that person divorce or separate in order to get back into God's will? No, I believe this lesson on adultery is important to realize that we are in need of a change of heart, life can't go on in this direction of living only for self, my way, what about me. We are to start living the way God intended from the beginning. God loves to bless His children. I believe one should realize that through our own selfish choices we bring suffering and disorder upon ourselves. God understands our pains, also the generational curses brought down from our parents, due to sin/selfish choices, etc. God is merciful, that's why He sent Jesus to lead us back to the truth. We have a chance friends, isn't that great! God is so good!!!!Amen!. 3.How can he or she get back into God's will, or is that no longer possible?As we receive Jesus into our hearts and believe on him, through His blood we are redeemed and forgiven.. Once we receive Jesus into our hearts, the Holy Spirit will come live in our hearts and take up residence in us, and will teach us all things about Christ. We will want to honor God in all our choices. God's blessings, Love, Lory

Q4. (Matthew 19:10) Why do you think Jesus' disciples reacted so negatively to his teaching on marriage and divorce? Did they misunderstand it? 1.Why do you think Jesus' disciples reacted so negatively to his teaching on marriage and divorce? I believe they reacted so negatively is because they probably have seen divorces happening all the time, almost like a natural way of living. Then they hear the truth of Jesus being explained to them that divorce is wrong. This new idea when you make a vow to your mate, that marriage is for life, would have been to hard for one to bare. As I read the disciples say, "that it would be better not to marry", revealed to me that they knew the importance of God's law and that disobeying Him, was a serious offense to God. People are so accustomed to having their own way, doing their own thing, they make vows without even realizing they are making them to God too, disregarding God completely in their descisons. 2. Did they misunderstand it? No, I don't think they misunderstood it, this truth was a hard saying, and perhaps their very own hearts were being convicted. Jesus went on to say that "not everyone can accept this truth, but only those to whom it has been given." Here Jesus gives his followers another another opportunity to hear God's Truth, to follow Him is not easy, it's all by choice, we have a choice, a responsibility to God on how we live. When we choose not to follow the Truth, we will no doubt keep falling in the ditch. God's blessings, Love, Lory

Q3. (Matthew 19:7-8) According to Jesus, does the Mosaic law command divorce? Does it allow or regulate it? Why does it allow divorce at all? What was God's original intention ("from the beginning") for marriage and divorce, according to Jesus? 1. According to Jesus, does the Mosaic law command divorce No. Divorce was not God's plan for His children. Divorce was created by man and only for man's purposes, not God's. 2. Does it allow or regulate it?According to Jesus, God does not allow divorce. Divorce doesn't bring glory to God, it's contrary to God's plans. 3. What was God's original intention ("from the beginning") for marriage and divorce, according to Jesus? "God made male and female, for this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife and the the two will become one flesh. What God has joined together, let not man separate. God's intention is to lead us back into a relalationship with Him, that we become ONE flesh in Him. The only hope for any relationship is in God. God's blessings, Lory

Q2. (Matthew 19:4-6 quoting Genesis 2:24) Do people need to be Christians to be joined as one flesh?Is this making into "one flesh" accomplished by a religious ceremony or by natural law? Of those who have entered into a first marriage, what percentage do you think have been "joined together" by God, according to Jesus' statement in Matthew 19:6? 1.Do people need to be Christians to be joined as one flesh? No you don't only need to be Christian to be one flesh. Anyone who engages in sexual intercourse, there is an exchange that takes place. We become connected, emotionally, physically, mentally, what's theirs is your's and what's your's is theirs. Everything we have experienced in our lives we end up sharing on a deeper level, not seen by the eyes. When Sin entered into the picture, "One flesh" has become distorted and is not what it was intended to be. The "one flesh" is unifed in God and not many are unified in God. 2. Is this making into "one flesh" accomplished by a religious ceremony or by natural law? This is accomplished by God's natural law. God made male and female to procreate, it's a natural law instituted by God. When Adam and Eve were joined together, it was God who joined them together and made them One in heart, One in spirit, One in faith, One in body soul and mind. 3.Of those who have entered into a first marriage, what percentage do you think have been "joined together" by God, according to Jesus' statement in Matthew 19:6? I have witnessed 30%. You said "joined together by God." Just because someone has intercourse or even gets a certificate doesn't mean they are joined together by God. I don't believe all marriages are joined by God, if they were, there would not be divorce. I have witnessed many failed marriages, and a few successful ones. These failed marriages might have been joined together as "one flesh", but I don't believe some of their marriages where approved by God. It is God who joins us together and what God joins together, let not man seperate. When God is at the center, then there is truly One heart, One mind, One faith, nothing can separate them for they are ONE. Many people marry who are not equally yoked together and they get married and wonder what went wrong. If they both become ONE in God, then there's a chance. With God all things are possible. God's blessings, Love, Lory

A.With whom did Jesus side: Rabbi Hillel or Rabbi Shammai? Until now I've never heard of the names Rabbi Hillel or Rabbi Shammai. I knew of the debate of the two truths, but was not aware of the names Hillel/Shammai's background. Very interesting. It appears that Jesus sides in with Rabbi Shammai, because the only grounds for divorce was by unfaithfulness. Jesus came to lead people back to the truth, the one and only truth. Again he shows them another testimony of man's sinful heart. B.What exception does Jesus give to his prohibition of divorce? The only exception is if the lady or man has been unfaithful, that is the only exception, one can get a divorce, but if it's something less minor and you want a divorce, you will cause her to commit adultery and even anyone that marries her or him. If you made a vow to your husband and before God, you are making an oath to God as well. ( Again Jesus is teaching his disciples about hardened hearts. Jesus comes to reveal God's truth, away from man made laws and traditons. He comes to reveal the truth about God and His ways. When God joins a man and a woman, they become one, one flesh with God in the center of their relationship. This will never change, and somehow mankind keeps doing their own way. How can one day you love your wife and then as the years go by you don't like your wife anymore? Who's fault is that? We are suppose to love one another, the man is supoose to love his wife like Christ loved the church, and the wife is suppose to love her husband too, by being submissive to him, trusting in him because he is centered in Christ. This love is about God, a oneness of heart and mind. When God is in the heart of the relationship, our love can only grow stronger, deeper. If our flesh is in control of our relationship, then the relationship will not last, the next thing is we don[t measure up to our (eye or what about me standards)then one seeks for a divorce or something. Everything that the world has to offer will change, if we are going to make a descion about marriage, we should understand before hand that, things will change, things wear out, beauty fades, etc, and when all things are striped away, what do you have in the end? God or.....your own world of self deception. ) How does this exception relate to Deuteronomy 24:1-4? Deuteronomy says, the man can divorce his wife even if she is displeasing to him, but if she becomes a wife to another man and he finds her displeasing and divorces her, she can't go back to her first husband because she has been defiled and is detestable in the eyes of the Lord. God's blessings, love, Lory

Q5. (Matthew 5:27-30) The spirit of our age is very accepting and approving of lus+ According to Jesus' words, how seriously are we to take lus+?lu How does agape love help us combat s+? 1. The spirit of our age is very accepting and approving of lus+ According to Jesus' words, how seriously are we to take lus+? We are to take it very seriously. If we don't take Lus+ seriously it can really cost us our life. It can lead to worse sins, it's just not worth it. Lus+ hinders the soul from receiving the fullness of all that God wants for us. Don't take your eyes off of God, sing hymns, pray for others, and for yourself, and keep your eye single on God. 2. How does agape love help us combat s+? Agape love is the greatest love that we can have for one another, when we allow agape love to prevail in all we do and think, there you will find peace, joy, the full abundance of God's life. God's peace and love, Lory

Q4. (Matthew 5:28) Sex is very closely tied to our core sense of person. This means that as we are healed in our view towards sex, it goes a long way toward making us whole inside. How would you counsel a brother who shared with you that he had trouble with pornogr*phy? How can you protect yourself against temptation over the Internet? At the beach or poolside? With your TV? 1. (Matthew 5:28) How would you counsel a brother who shared with you that he had trouble with pornogr*phy? First of all, I have never had a problem with pornogr=phy, so I wouldn't be the right person to counsel him or her, but if I had to I would. One who all ready had understanding of the problem and has found victory over it would be better suited for the job. If we are to counsel we must realize that we are not without sin, so we are not their judge. We should lead them back to the ways of God's truth. Call on the Holy Spirit to give you guidance, you could be dealing with such deep rooted problems that it's going to take the Holy Spirit for this person to have victory and there's nothing you can do or say to change them. I have seen time and time again other addictions from people, they just can't be set free, because they love their sin way too much. The spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak. As with any problem, we have to die to our flesh. If it were me, and I had the problem, it's important to establish a trust, ask me questions, why do you watch *****? When you ask questions you will have insight on how to pray for them. Listen and hear their story of the why's, some people just need to be validated, even when they know they are in the wrong, but listen with compassion. Some people need to be held accountable, so you would need to call them every few hours and check on them. Ask them if they would be willing. Once you establish a trust, then tell them gently your honest truth of what God's word says. Ask them if they want to change this? Ask them many questions. Let them answer and figure it out themselves. Reveal to them that God's way is to bless, and when we do our ways against God's way, it can lead our souls in the ways of destruction. Reveal to them when they indulge in such activities it can affect their marriage, or future marriage, give Satan a strong foothold into their lives, which could lead to adultery,or something worse, etc. Obviously there's a brokenness in this person's relationship with God. They need help, but don't know how to get help. Ultimately it's the question of whether or not they want to do God's will or do they love their sin more. That's something we all have to come to terms with, no matter what we do. 2.How can you protect yourself against temptation over the Internet, at the beach or poolside,with your TV? Every time there is a temptation to do something that you know is wrong, cast the thought out immediately, tell your flesh NO and mean it! The flesh is a lose canon, but we have been given power over our flesh. Say scripture "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me". Don't use the internet if you can't say no to temptations, wait until you are strong or have someone who can make you accountable. Think of Jesus on the Cross, you won't have problems at that moment when you are at the pool side or beach, switch the tv channels or put it out of the house for a week or so. If there is something that is dishonorable to God cast it out of you. Learn how to say No to everything that tempting you, remind yourself that such ways leads to death, worse things can come upon us. Don't put yourself in situations that will tempt you. If one is serious about their faith, they will overcome. God will give us strength in our weaknesses, all we have to do is ask God. Ask God to take away the cravings, etc. If you don't have love in your heart, ask God to put His love in your heart, if you don't have purity, ask God to purify your heart, if you don't have control over lus+, ask God to change your eyes, etc.. Most times we ask for the things of the world and not the things of God. We can be delivered, but we must ask God. God's blessings be with you, Lory

Q3. (Matthew 5:28) What is wrong with pornogr*phy? What is wrong with going to prostitutes? Who are the victims of this "victimless" activity? 1. (Matthew 5:28) What is wrong with pornogr*phy? Pornogr=phy was created to make money by people, not by God. pornogr=phy takes your mind off of God's will for us. Anything that takes our minds and thoughts off of God is sin. Pornogra=phy poisions and pollutes the mind, opens doors to the dark side and can eventually lead you into something worse. Nothing good comes out of this, it leads your soul to death. 2. What is wrong with going to prostitutes? Going to prostitutes is wrong because it's against God will. It's sin. Again, prostitutes do what they do for the money, there is no love involved for the other person whatsoever. It's sex, without love. Many prostitiutes have diseases, they are dirty, and have had many lovers, paticipating with them will only open doors to the dark side. Remember, Satan has a job to do, to go around like a roaring lion, on the prowl, looking for someone to devour. His job is to kill, steal, and destroy your life. Satan's ways will lead your soul to death. 3. Who are the victims of this "victimless" activity? Everyone who participates in these wrongful acts are victims of Satan. Even though they get paid very well, later they are mislead. What profits a man to gain the whole world, but loses his soul? Satan deceives those who participate in these activities and eventually will lead these girls and guys in towards guilt and harder drugs, eventually death. The other victims are the innocent youngsters who get invited to watch one of those terrible movies or photos. If they don't have a strong moral background, they could potentially beome a victim of Satan for the rest of their lives. These seeds of destruction will take root in their hearts and the lus+ will take over their minds and they can potentially have a hard time in their marriage in finding a true loving relationship. God's blessings, Lory

God purposely created us with a good and natural sexual desire. How do we distinguish between that God-given sexual desire and forbidden lus+? 1.The difference between God given sexual desire and forbidden lus+: God created pleasure. Pleasure was intended to be good, not use for selfish desires or worngful acts. When God is at the center of our relationship, God's love is present, it's a love that cherishes, a love that is mutual, a love that is kind and giving. It's God who creates a wonderful joy and blessed union between the man and a woman. This love is not what you see with your eyes, it's what you feel and experience in your heart for your mate wih God at the center. The forbidden lus+ seeks out all things through its eyes, never through the eyes of God, it desires what it wants and sees what it likes. Satan uses lus+ for his purpsoes. Lus+ will fool you, it's one objective is to satisfiy it's cravings of the flesh, and only for the flesh. There is no love in the flesh, only selfishness, the flesh doesn't care who it hurts as long as it gets what it wants. The lus+ will lead you into the places of diseases, unwanted pregnancy, guilt, broken relationships, pain, etc. God's blessings, Lory

Q1. (Matthew 5:27-30; Exodus 20:17) What is the point of similarity between adultery and lus+? What is the difference? How does lus+ break the Tenth Commandment? 1. What is the point of similarity between adultery and lus+? They both take our eyes and hearts off of God. 2.What is the difference? Adultery is something you do and lus+ is something you think about doing. The things we think about, will eventually be what we do. It's better to get into the habit of holding all of our thoughts captive to Christ. When you are in Christ, your number one desire is to serve and please God. Better to keep our minds and eyes focused on the things of God. 3. How does lus+ break the Tenth Commandment? When you start to lus+ for the things of the world or a cool car or.... You start to desire it, and the more desire you have, the more you will do anything to get it, such as even to lie, cheat, steal, murder. God's heart doesn't live in lus+, if one is lus+ing for something other than God, it's better to cast such thoughts out of your mind immediately before they have time to take root. God's blessings and strength, Lory

Q5. (Matthew 5:21-26) Verses 21-22 are about murder, anger, and insult. Verses 23-24 discuss some fault against one's brother. Verses 25- 26 discuss settling a civil suit before going to court. What is the overarching theme of Jesus' teaching in our entire passage, verses 21-26? 1. What is the overarching theme of Jesus' teaching in our entire passage, verses 21-26? This is a lesson about anger, being angry with your brother is not the way to God. To show that we are right with God, will show that we are right with our neighbors and if we are not right with our neighbors, this is a clear sign, we are not right with God. Anger without a cause can lead us into greater darkness, it is the root of wickedness and we must do away with this kind of thinking and being, it can lead to destruction. Being angry with our brothers and sisters is contrary to God's love and the angry heart doesn't glorify God. We are to forgive one another and love our neighbors as ourselves, do right in everyway possible or if not, pay the consequences. God's peace and blessings, Love, Lory

4. (Matthew 5:25-26) What is the point of Jesus' parable of settling out of court? Who are we supposed to settle with, according to this parable? What does "settling" entail? What are the reasons that we should settle? 1.What is the point of Jesus' parable of settling out of court? Jesus point is, when God gives you a new heart, you are in the family of God now, there's something more required from us Christians, we need to pursue what is good and pleasing in God's sight. Believer's should forgive one another, settle matters quickly, don't fight, but do what is right to all people. It's better to settle out of court,where there is still time to resolve the issue. 2.Who are we supposed to settle with, according to this parable?We are suppose to settle our debts with our enemies before their anger causes more trouble and they hand you over to the judge. 3. What does "settling" entail? God wants you to get things right, whatever it is. If you owe someone money, find a way to work it off. If you offended someone, say your sorry. Settle matters quickly while you still have this person with you or it can build up and cause a lot more pain. 4. What are the reasons that we should settle? We should settle because, God says so. Give the person a chance to redeem him or herself, to repent or... It doesn't look good for Christians to fight, they show themselves to be acting like the world. We are suppose to love one another, not go around hurting each other, that's not God's way. We should be working on being unified, one body in Christ. The world will take you to court, throw you into prison and take every cent you have, until the last penny. God bless you, love, Lory

Q3. (Matthew 5:23-24) What's wrong with worshipping while a brother has something against us (or us against a brother, Mark 11:25)? What is the appropriate action for us to take? How far should we go to bring about reconciliation with someone whom we have offended? Are there any situations that we shouldn't try to resolve? Or that we can't resolve? Q3. (Matthew 5:23-24) What's wrong with worshipping while a brother has something against us (or us against a brother, Mark 11:25)? When you have something against someone, or them against you, it closes our hearts to God. God wants us to receive from Him, all His blessings. But if we let our hearts engage in unforgiviness towards someone it's not good for us or for them. God wants us to worship Him in spirit and truth. When we worship God our hearts should be cleared of all selfishness, malice, resentment, anger, we should be in sweet surrender to Him, the One who brought us out of bondage into His glorious freedom. God doesn't want us to have grudges against anyone. It's not His way, or His nature, it's the ways of the world. Not only do you break your union with God, we break the union with one another. God calls for unity, one heart, one mind, one, faith, one God. If the Holy Spirit is working within you, you will find a way to make the peace or you're just deceiving yourself thinking you are in the truth, but in actuality you are serving your own flesh. In this broken fellowship with God, it will hinder your prayers. We must in everyway as possible allow God's mercy and peace to reign in our hearts. What is the appropriate action for us to take? If we have something against someone, we should pray for the person, or do something to resolve the situation and make a way for peace. In my church we share the peace before communion, that gives everyone a chance to extend forgiveness if there is someone who has offended us or we them, we can be set free again. If they don't want peace or resolution, then at least you did the right thing, your heart won't condemn you and God will answer your prayers. God will not forgive you if you don't forgive others. God wants us to be released from a hard heart and hard hearts don't love or feel for anything anymore. How far should we go to bring about reconciliation with someone whom we have offended?Go the extra mile in resolving the situation. The other day I found myself a little upset with someone, this was something that had been festering up and finally it came up to the surface. Boom!! My attitude was a little unkind, all the time my heart knew this was wrong, but something inside of me reached the point of no return. It tried to get the best of me. So the Holy Spirit kept convicting my heart, revealing that God requires us to be merciful to others. So I repented with all the strength I had left and prayed to God, to take my pain of anger and to help me forgive this person and myself. Then I asked God to forgive me because I knew dishonored God by choosing not to love. God gave me strength to call this person up 10 minutes later and to apologize. If I didn't apologize, then I would have been festering all day long about that, feeling more guilty, etc., who knows where that would have led, perhaps a little more deeper into the darkness. Brothers and sisters, we are in a spiritual battle field, everyday satan or his demons are trying to steal God's word from our hearts. We must be on our guard and not let unforgiviness rule in our hearts, it gives satan a foothold. We must be truthful to those who do wrong, don't let it fester up in you, if you do, you will first start with bad thoughts, then it will lead to bad words, and then some kind of ugly action will take place. (God help us all to choose to stay in your love,it's so much lovelier.) Are there any situations that we shouldn't try to resolve? Or that we can't resolve? Yes, sometimes you will find people who just don't want to forgive or make peace, they want to keep their grudge against you, due to a hardened heart. You can involve others, but when these individuals have made up their minds, it's almost hopeless. Some people just don't understand God's word, or realize the state of their hearts, so we must be patient, and keep praying for them. The bible says to treat them like the pagans. Well, that is what they are acting like, the people in the world. If they don't want to listen, then they will have to take it up with God. God's peace be with you, Love, Lory