Something Missing
For as in Adam all die, so also in Christ all will be made alive. 1 Corinthians 15:22 NASB
In – We’ve looked at the difference between reading this preposition (en) as the material cause or the efficient cause. I know, it’s complicated. Maybe you had to read it a few times to see the important difference. But now let’s look at something else.
The Greek construction is a bit odd. Paul uses en to before the name of each of these two persons. Literally the text says, “in the Adam” and “in the Christ.” Now we can understand this in the second case because “the Christ” is the Hebraic equivalent of “the Messiah.” But if Paul wanted to say “in Adam,” naming Adam as a unique person, he should not have used this expression. What he said makes sense for “the Messiah,” but does it make sense for “the Adam”?
We could argue that it is merely linguistic parallelism, keeping the Greek construction en to in both occurrences. But I find it curious. If “the Messiah” is a title (and also a particular person), wouldn’t we want to say the same things about Adam? And what does “the Adam” mean? Could it be that Paul wants us to look at the role that these two men play rather than the actual men themselves?
You can see that the translators ignore this funny problem in both phrases. Why? Could it be that the translators already presuppose that this verse is about the material causality of Adam’s sin? Could it be that if I introduced “the Adam” and “the Christ” into the translation, it would be harder to treat the verse as if it were about two people instead of about two consequences represented by these people?
Let’s back up a verse or two in order to get the context. The entire section of this letter treats the objection that there is no resurrection. Paul vehemently argues 1) that resurrection from the dead exists and Yeshua is proof of the claim; 2) that if there is no resurrection, the entire claim of Yeshua’s standing collapses and Paul and others are false witnesses; and 3) if Yeshua was not raised from the dead, then we and all those who have since died are fools or worse. Paul then asserts that Yeshua has been raised from the dead as the first fruits of all those who are to follow. This is an Hebraic concept implying that what has happened to Him empowers all who follow Him so that the same thing will apply to them. What matters in this discussion are two critical things: Yeshua did come back to life and His resurrection guarantees ours.
Now Paul talks about Adam and death. Why now? Because it is plainly obvious to all men that death reigns in this world. In light of his argument about the reality of resurrection, Paul needs to explain why death still prevails. And the answer is, “We are experiencing the same consequences that befell Adam which lead to his death.” Death continues in spite of the resurrection because of sin, and until the fulfillment of the Messiah’s full plan, death will continue to be a reality for humankind. But when the Messiah “delivers the Kingdom to YHWH,” the experience of death will end!
In other words, Paul’s concern in this entire section of the letter is not with sin. It is with death! The presence of death seems to contradict the claim of resurrected life. Paul explains this apparent contradiction by noting that men participate in the same experience as Adam because they act as Adam acted and that will continue until men are removed from the consequences of those actions by the sanctification process that accompanies the actions of the Messiah. It is not Adam the person that brings death, but Adam the exemplar of disobedience, just as it is the Messiah who is the exemplar of obedience that brings life. We can see this in Paul’s conclusion in verse 26, “The last enemy that will be abolished is death.”
All of this leads to puzzlement about the conclusions of David Stern. Stern suggests that Paul, as a Jewish rabbi, advocated the doctrine of original sin while Judaism rejected the doctrine “in its effort to avoid the conclusion that it is essential to trust in Yeshua’s atoning sacrificial death.”[1] But this is anachronistic theology. It assumes that Jewish thinking of the first century was so hostile to Yeshua as the Messiah that it refused to acknowledge a doctrine created 350 years later. Stern does not seem to remember here that most of the followers of the Messiah in the first century were Jews and that Messianic and non-Messianic Jews did not part company until sometime after the Bar Kochba revolt. Stern assumes that the rabbis were intentionally blind to this doctrinal truth because they rejected the Messiah. But if many practicing Jews followed the Messiah, and they did not develop a clearly articulated doctrine of sinful nature as a rabbinic confession, why should we believe that Yeshua had anything to do with such a doctrine? In Stern’s view, Jews developed the idea that man is capable of following the Torah through his efforts to domesticate the influence of the yetzer ha’ra. Stern argues that this is impossible without the assistance of God, and in particular, without specific trust in Yeshua. But what Jew would ever argue that God has nothing to do with this effort? Of course we must rely on God’s involvement in this process, but that does not mean that we must name the Messiah in order for God to provide such assistance. If that were so, then Abraham is lost – and ultimately so are we.
Topical Index: sin, death, Adam, Christ, 1 Corinthians 15:22, Romans 5:12
[1] David Stern, Jewish New Testament Commentary, p. 368.
IRENE – There were a lot of comments posted on the blog site about the announcement concerning Irene, so many that I find it necessary to add this: it is entirely true that we don’t know what God will do with this situation. It is true that Irene may go on to be a runner again- and a great one. It is also true that we as a community will continue to help her as we are able given what we are able to do. But it is also true that her choices have complicated everything, so much so that some doors are now closed. She is on a path whose usual end is the repetition of so many of those who live in the camps. We had hoped to get her off that path. It was never my goal, or the goal of the community, to count Irene as a “world track star.” All we really wanted was to give her a greater opportunity for a life without poverty and fear. That might still be possible, but not in the way we thought. The harsh reality is that life where she lives is very, very difficult, and it is now even more difficult. Pray for her.
Frankly, I am at a loss as to what to do for her now. We will assist her through this, but the path after that is completely dark. Maybe that’s the real obstacle. I have no clear idea how to help her beyond the daily needs and that doesn’t change her reality. If you have offers or suggestions that are realistic, please provide them.
“But if Paul wanted to say “in Adam,” naming Adam as a unique person, he should not have used this expression.” Why should he not have used this expression? I would think we have the expression that the author wanted us to have.
“Could it be that Paul wants us to look at the role that these two men play rather than the actual men themselves?” Ultimately, we all seem to “interpret” Scripture by our commitment to some systematic theology. Any interpretation here reflects a prior commitment so some view about original sin. Maybe it is necessary to take a look elsewhere to find the answer to this particular issue.
Yes, it is necessary to look elsewhere, and we can start with “Where did the idea of sinful nature come from? Who first proposed it? Why? Why don’t Jews have the same idea if it is clearly articulated in the Bible?” The HISTORY of an idea is so important.
I understand the issue, also the problematic definitions that occur when the phrase “sinful nature” is used. TO many, it seems to be a statement indicating altered ontology in some form, originating with the use of the word “nature.” But, being aware of that, one of the questions remains is this one: Does the human mind work now just as well as it did before the “Fall”? If so, what are the changes, if not, does man now reason equally as well as Adam would have prior to the Fall, and according to the implications of some people, continues to do so?
Or does the idea of “sinful nature” describe a moral condition about humanity that says man is not neutral in respect to God, that the truth about God is evident to those who consider the world around them, and that those who don’t believe are holding down, or suppressing the truth about God in unrighteousness.
Was Adam “neutral” in relationship to God at any time? How could he be? Created in His image, having fellowship with him in the Garden, then being confronted directly by God because of his dereliction of duty.
The history of an idea is important. But when Yeshua confronted the Pharisees on their historical interpretations, he said something like, Scripture and its original intent trumps history. 🙂
And if the Fall had noetic effects, how would you ever know? How could you make a comparison now?
Time machine.
I’m bidding on one on eBay now!
http://www.ebay.com/itm/H-G-WELLS-1960-THE-TIME-MACHINE-MOVIE-FULL-SIZE-WORKING-REPLICA-FILM-MOVIE-PROP-/370878208525?pt=UK_DVD_Film_TV_Film_Memorabilia_LE&hash=item565a105a0d
It’s only $78,000. Saving my quarters.
“Of course we must rely on God’s involvement in this process, but that does not mean that we must name the Messiah in order for God to provide such assistance. If that were so, then Abraham is lost – and ultimately so are we.”
It sounds like you are saying that we don’t really need Yeshua to go through the process of sanctification. We can just call on The Most High like Abraham. If that is so, I can’t understand why Yeshua went through such torture and death or why He was even incarnated in the first place. Are you saying He’s just a prophet and teacher like the Jews and the Muslims and other sects?
If this is addressed to me, Skip, then my answer is NO, he is more than prophet. He is Messiah. Now, what is the role of the Messiah. Is it simply “to give me forgiveness” or “get me to heaven”? If the role of the Messiah is about Kingdoms, then doesn’t that help us understand the cross. And if the Messiah plays a role in atonement, does that change simply because of the incarnation? Why was it so important that God Himself take on human form?
~ For if, by the trespass of the one man, death reigned through that one man, how much more will those who receive God’s abundant provision of grace and of the gift of righteousness reign in life through the one Man, (the second Adam!) Jesus (the) Christ! ~ (Romans 5.17)
The Writings of Paul, in his second letter to Timothy
A Good Soldier of Christ Jesus
~ You then, my child, be strengthened by the grace that is in Christ Jesus, and what you have heard from me in the presence of many witnesses entrust to faithful men who will be able to teach others also. Share in suffering as a good soldier of Christ Jesus. No soldier gets entangled in civilian pursuits, since his aim is to please the One who enlisted him. An athlete is not crowned unless he competes according to the rules. It is the hard-working farmer who ought to have the first share of the crops. Think over what I say, for the LORD will give you understanding in everything.
~ Remember Jesus Christ, risen from the dead, the offspring of David, as preached in my gospel, for which I am suffering, bound with chains as a criminal. But the Word of God is not bound! Therefore I endure everything for the sake of the elect, that they also may obtain the salvation that is in Christ Jesus with eternal glory. The saying is trustworthy, for:
If we have died with him, we will also live with Him;
if we endure, we will also reign with Him;
if we deny Him, He also will deny us;
if we are faithless, He remains Faithful—
for He cannot deny Himself.
A Worker Approved by God
~ Remind them of these things, and charge them before God not to quarrel about words, which does no good, but only ruins the hearers. Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who has no need to be ashamed, rightly handling the word of truth. But avoid irreverent babble, for it will lead people into more and more ungodliness, and their talk will spread like gangrene. Among them are Hymenaeus and Philetus, who have swerved from the truth, saying that the resurrection has already happened. They are upsetting the faith of some. But God’s firm foundation stands, bearing this seal:
“The LORD knows those who are His,” and, “Let everyone who names the Name of the LORD depart from iniquity.”
~ Now in a great house there are not only vessels of gold and silver but also of wood and clay, some for honorable use, some for dishonorable. Therefore, if anyone cleanses himself from what is dishonorable, he will be a vessel for honorable use, set apart as holy, useful to the Master of the house, ready for every good work ~
~ So flee youthful passions and pursue righteousness, faith, love, and peace, along with those who call on the LORD from a pure heart. Have nothing to do with foolish, ignorant controversies; you know that they breed quarrels. And the LORD’s servant must not be quarrelsome but kind to everyone, able to teach, patiently enduring evil, correcting his opponents with gentleness. God may perhaps grant them repentance leading to a knowledge of the truth, and they may come to their senses and escape from the snare of the devil, after being captured by him to do his will ~
~ so is My word that goes out from My mouth:
It will not return to me empty,
but will accomplish what I desire
and achieve the purpose for which I sent it ~ (Isaiah 55.11)
Let it be so. Amen.
~ even when we were dead in our transgressions, He has made us alive together with Christ (by grace you have been saved), and raised us up with Him, and seated us with Him in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus, so that in the ages to come He might show the surpassing riches of His grace in His loving kindnesses towards us in Christ Jesus ~
Carl, my eyes need to be continually opened to HIM and anything that is NOT CHRIST CENTRED.. I get the jitters as to where it will lead me if I follow.
I love the WORD and yet I know that I MUST LOVE IT MORE and MORE in truth to be lived one day at a time.
I feel alone many times due to the fact that not all are found IN CHRIST.
I can accept that but only because I can do nothing about replacing a man from ADAM into CHRIST.
I am ministered to by Ephesians and know that I understand in part but the PART THAT I DO understand must be seen in my life.
I have been translated as Enoch was and from the depths of sin, hell and death INTO the GLORIOUS LAMB of GOD who taketh away the sin of the WORLD .
THE LORD bless you and the LORD bless all that are desiring to fulfill HIS DESIRES to have us CONFORM TO HIS IMAGE NOW for then . UNTIL HE COME
In Greek proper names carry the article many a times. I am not sure if you can make a point based on the article being here.
Usually with Greek when the article is present with a proper name the person is know. The absence of the article simply names him.
Sorry just realized that you were thinking that it might be a title. So my argument might not hold.
As TITLE, each symbolic figure points us to the purpose and role, not to the individual man (as we would normally understand the Greek)
Skip,
FYI
Just received my TDNT (10 vols) today.
Thanks again for the heads up.
Saved about $70 instead of getting them at Amazon.
I just cracked open my new TDNT Vol. II to look at εν τω αδαμ (in the adam) and εν τω Χριστω (in the Christ).
If I understand it right, the TDNT seems to mean the efficient cause by saying, “The first and second Adam are progenitors initiating two races of men. Each implies a whole world, an order of life or death. Each includes his adherents in and under himself. The NT view is distinguished from oriental speculations about the first man, even in their Jewish form, by the two facts, first, that it never equates the first Adam and the Redeemer, but sees them as two opposite poles, and secondly, that it thinks of the Author of the second creation as historically present, so that this new creation has already been inaugurated. By baptism believers are removed from the sphere of the first Adam, which is that of sin and death, into the sphere of the second Adam, which is that of righteousness and life.” TDNT Vol. II, page 542.
An intro to the use of ‘in Christ’ also points out that this particular word formula isn’t found before Paul’s use of it and rare outside of his writings and, in fact, may be originated by Shaul and that this formula can be used “in many different ways.”
I need a time machine to go back and just askPaul some questions. Wouldn’t that be nice and convenient?
Michael,
If you ever find that time machine and there’s a spare seat, please call me. 🙂
🙂
I think all those that participate in here with Skip are riding a time machine, no?
The problem is that it doesn’t work with a flip of buttons or dials. It involves sleuthing of the only time medium we have to work with, words. Words that have spanned the centuries.
It’s a long and rocky road, but doable, I think. It just takes effort and time. 😉
In a day or two I will post a page from a 1568 Bible I read here at Oxford. See what you think of those words and then imagine what happened over the other 2000 years.
It appears to me that this 1568 version (not sure what Greek text it used) translated two different Greek words with the same English word.
28:19 – “teaching all nations” – from the Greek – “matheteusate tanya ta ethane”
29:20 – “teaching them” – from the Greek – “didaskontes autous”
In v19 the Greek “matheteusate” and v20 the Greek “didaskontes” are both translated with the English word(s) “teach, teaching.”
All the later translations: NIV, NASB, ESV translate the “mathetusate” as “making disciples” or a discipling practice of the nations (ethne).
There seems to be a definite difference in the two words, particularly in conjunction with the “Going” beginning v19 as opposed to the popular “Go, therefore” implications. I believe you’ve addressed this significant difference as it relates to the flavor of evangelism one chooses.
Regarding the two Greek words translated with the same English word (teach, teaching) the 1568 version kind of pigeon holes and limits the nature of this ‘evangelistic’ thrust.
“matheteusate” has more than a teaching flavor in that it seems to, from the historical background of the Hebraic idea forming from the rabbinic methods, imply more than just a lecturer/listener relationship. It is more than a formal relationship of one lecturing and one listening, although it includes that. This word implies a much more personal involvement such that there is one who is teaching and one who is the pupil. Not just any pupil, but a pupil that is committed to learning the ways of his teacher or master. It is a mutually convened relationship, the one willing to give the other to receive.
Was Yeshua playing off the ways and traditions of the sages that the Hebrews would be familiar with in regard to the perpetuating His ways upon his departure?
Rabbi’s or sages were the teachers, the masters, the learned who were sought to teach and instruct those of the covenant all that the Torah contained. But beyond that how to incorporate it in to pleasing and honoring action to YHWH. There were apparently at least two levels of students or pupils. One level was all of the commonwealth of Israel in following their personal obligation to learn, study, know and obey Torah. To know YHWH was to know Torah, the more intimately the better. The second level were those that studied to the level of having the potential to become a rabbi. It seems there were usually quite a number of this level ready to be recognized in to the rabbi level given the opportunity and need for that to occur. It seems like it was kind of like a Rabbi reserve, a group that is always ready to be called upon whenever needed.
In light of 28:19,20 then it seems there might be a connection in how this method of continuance should occur. Could it be, AS you are GOING and living life, where ever that takes you, whatever ethnicity you encounter, make acquaintances that are close and lasting so that an environment can be created that induces those relations to draw close to YHWH. Then, within those close and vibrant relationships immerse (baptize) them in all things, all life that reflects YHWH character (name of the Father, Son, and Ruach HaKodesh) teaching (didaskovtes) them shema (to hear and obey) all of Torah (all things I have instructed you in.)
Use of the same English word (teach) in this 1568 Bible with no other understanding except from the translated English could uphold the hierarchal methods and organization of the established controls in the ‘church.’ Only the designated ones could teach and what did they teach? “Listen to us.” We will tell you what God and Scripture says. What we say goes.
Who on the lower levels of the hierarchy could oppose or disapprove? It would seem none or very few during those times. Today, it could be just because many don’t see the value or need to study Torah diligently. At one time in history some would have given their very lives to study Torah and today it’s reduced to an inconvenience and troublesome burden. Good grief.
Also the 1568 version, like the KJV translates the Greek aionos as ‘world’ rather than age. What difference does that make?
At the basic level of meaning ‘world’ and ‘age’ are miles apart in the simple sense.
Skip, In regards to the TDNT, Gerhard Kittel’s work, have you found any of his anti-Semitic theology or Nazi politics to have influenced his scholarship? It is hard for me to see how it would not have. We have vol.I left over from my husbands seminary days, but upon learning more about the fruit of Kittel’s life I am cautious.
Cautious is good. Reading about the etymology is good. Filter the rest.
Everybody has bias, everybody.
TDNT word studies contribute much help, regardless of the theology presented. Everything one reads exudes theology bias to some extent. It can be filtered out, reworked and presented with a new bias.
That’s what I’m in here for, to learn how to see what people are implying, analyze it for biblical truth and accept or reject it accordingly.
I’m sure he was influenced but, in my estimation, his word studies offer some value to anyone attempting to learn how words are used, manipulated and molded to say various things via the Greek base.
“At one time in history some would have given their very lives to study Torah and today it’s reduced to an inconvenience and troublesome burden. Good grief.”
Michael C, I have corrupted your sentence above to-
At one time in history some would have given their very lives to study Torah and today it’s reduced to an inconvenience and troublesome burden as “Good grief!”. 🙂
That’s works, too, Ester, unfortunately.
Sometimes when leading a class, someone asks a question and I respond with another question with the implication for them to go check it out.
Oh, my! What looks I get sometimes. Forlornness, frustration and irritation.
It’s like they’d rather have an arm cut off than have to go study something.
Makes me wonder if they really have a hunger inside to really seek truth.
I yearn for people close by to study and seek with. Alas, they are few and hard to find.
However, I could be the problem. Maybe they just don’t want to be around me!
Skip,
I appreciate your comments over last few days on 1 Cor.15:22
I am not big on “material causality”,per se. For sure, Adam got the ball rolling when he sinned and brought death to humanity. But we can hardly claim that “its all Adam’s fault”. That argument will not fly in God’s judgment court! Paraphrasing Skip: “Sin entered the world through Adam, and all of humanity who sins (we all do!) experiences the same result – DEATH! It seems to me that the Bible is pretty much the story of God’s restoration of all of mankind from Adam down from that penalty of death. That makes 1 Corinthians 15 an important section of Scripture with regard to death and resurrection. There is info here that is found nowhere else! Along with verse 22, we also find Paul again using this terrific contrast between the first and second Adam in verse 45:
“The first man, Adam, became a living soul, the last Adam became a life – giving Spirit.”
We find a third witness in Rom. 5:17″For as through the one man’s disobedience, the many were constituted sinners, so also by the obedience of the One, the many shall be constituted righteous”. (TIB – Green)
As I see it, as a believer in Universal Reconciliation (nothing else makes sense!), God is the One in charge and in control of the game of life and death. Could God have prevented Adam from sinning? Could God have kept the tempter “serpent” away? Of course He could! But He did not. And we see subsequently that God takes responsibility for it all – even before the foundation of the world His Plan was all in place. For me, the very important word in 1 Cor. 15:22 is ALL. Here in Paul’s contrast between the two Adam’s ALL has to mean ALL -else Messiah did not die for ALL. No ambiguity here! And, pray tell, how could Paul say in verse 26 that “death will be destroyed” if the millions are in “endless torment” or as others say “cremated in the lake of fire”.
When King Yahshua returns the keys to the Father, He will have accomplished all aspects of his earthly salvific assignment:
“When ALL things are subjected to him, then the Son Himself will also be subjected to Him who put ALL things under him, that God may be everything to EVERYONE.” (1Cor 15:28)RSV
Would you believe it if I told you that YHVH has sworn BY HIMSELF that He will bring ALL this to pass?:
“Turn to me and BE SAVED ALL ends of the earth. For I am ELOHIM and there is no other. By myself I have sworn, from my mouth has gone forth in righteousness a word that shall not return; ‘to me EVERY knee shall bow, EVERY tongue shall swear!” (Isaiah 45:23)
And the Father will be glorified in it all.
Have You Heard?
(is this “Good News?”)
*in Christ*- you are! (blessed!)
YOU ARE
You are Christ’s brother (sister) Hebrews 2:10-12
You are able -Philippians 4:13
You are His witness -Acts1:8
You are His workmanship -Ephesians 2:10
You are not of this world- John 17:14-16
You are His worshipper -Psalm 95:6
You are worthy-Revelation 3:4
You are yielded to God -Romans 6:13
You are yoked with Jesus -Matthew 11:29
You are heaven bound,guaranteed. – I Peter 1: 4
You are abounding in grace- 2 Corinthians 9:8
You are abounding in hope- Romans 15:4, 13
You are Abraham’s offspring – Galatians 3:29
You are abundant -John 10:10
You have abundant life- 1 John 4:9
You have access-Ephesians 2:18
You are adequate – 2 Corinthians 3:5
You are adopted-Ephesians 1:5
You are alive -Ephesians 2:4-5
You are an ambassador for Christ – 2 Corinthians 5:20
You are anointed – 1 John 2:20
You are anxious for nothing – Philippians 4:6
You are the apple of His eye – Zechariah 2:8
You are appointed by God -John 15:16
You are the aroma of Christ – 2 Corinthians 2:15
You are not ashamed -2 Timothy 1:12
You are assured of reward- 1 Corinthians 15:58
You are assured of success- Proverbs 16:3
You have authority over the devil – Luke 9:1
You are baptized into Christ – 1 Corinthians 12:15
You are delightful to God- Psalm 149:4
You are becoming a mature person – Ephesians 4:13
You are becoming conformed to Christ – Romans 8:29
You are a believer-Romans 10:9
You belong to God -John 17:9
You are betrothed -Hosea 2:19-20
You are blameless – 1 Corinthians 1:8
You are blessed-Ephesians 1:3
You are blood bought- 1 Corinthians 6:19-20
You are bold -Proverbs 28:1
You are a bondservant-Psalm 116:16
You are born of God -1 John 5:18
You are born again -1 Peter 1:23
You are bought with a price – 1 Corinthians 6:20
You are a branch of the True Vine – John 15:5
You are His bride -Isaiah 54:5
You are His brother-Hebrews 2:11
You are brought near-Ephesians 2:13
You are built up – 1 Peter2:5
You are buried with Christ- Romans 6:4
You are called – 1 Peter5:10
You are calm -Philippians 4:6
You are cared for – 1 Peter 5:7
You are carried -Exodus 19:4
You are changed – 1 Samuel 10:6
You are a child of God -John 1:12
You are cherished-Ephesians 5:29
You are chosen – 1 Peter 2:9
You are circumcised spiritually – Colossians 2:1
You are a citizen of Heaven – Philippians 3:20
You are clay in the Potter’s hand – Jeremiah 18:6
You are clean -Ezekiel 36:25; John 15:3
You are cleansed – 1 John 1:7,9
You are clothed with Christ – Galatians 3:27
You are a co-heir with Christ – Romans 8:17
You are comforted-Jeremiah 31:13
You are complete in Christ- Colossians 2:10
You are confident – 1 John4:17
You are confident of answers to prayer – 1 John 5:14-15
You are confident He will finish me – Philippians 1:6
You are confident He will never leave me – Hebrews 13:5- 6
You are a conqueror-Romans 8:37
You are content-Philippians 4:11
You are content with weakness – 2 Corinthians 12:10
You are continually with God – Psalm 73:23
You are controlled by the love of Christ – 2 Corinthians 12:10
You are courageous -1 Chronicles 28:20
You are created in Christ for good works – Ephesians 2:10
You are created in His image – Genesis 1:27
You are crucified with Him- Galatians 2:20
You are dead in Christ -Romans 6:4
You are dead to sin-Romans 6:11
You are a delight -Psalm 147:11
You are delighted in-Isaiah 42:1
You are delivered -Psalm 107:6
You are desired -Psalm 45:11
You are determined-Philippians 4:13
You are a disciple -John 8:31-32
You are disciplined-Hebrews 12:5-11
You are drawing near with confidence – Hebrews 4:16
You are empowered to obey- Philippians 2:13
You are encouraged -2 Thessalonians 2:16-17
You are enlightened-Ephesians 1:18
You are enriched in everything- 1 Corinthians 1:5
You are equipped – 2 Timothy 3:16-17
You are established -Deuteronomy 28:9
You have eternal life – John 3:36
You are an evangelist – Matthew 28:18-20
You have every goodt hing- Philemon 6
You are exalted at His right hand – Acts 2:34-35
You are faithful-Revelation 17:14
You are family -Psalm 68:5
You are far from oppression – Isaiah 54:14
You are favored – Job10:12
You are a fellow citizen with the saints – Ephesians 2:19
You are a fellow worker -Colossians 4:11
You are filled – Acts2:4
You are filled with the fullness of God – Colossians 2:9- 10
You are filled with the fruits of righteousness – Philippians 1:11
You are filled with the fruits of the Spirit – Galatians 5:22-23
You are filled with the knowledge of His will – Colossians 1:9
You are filled with joy -John 17:13
You are a finished product-in progress – Philippians 1:6
You are a first fruit-Romans 8:23
You are forgiven-Ephesians 1:7
You are formed in the womb by God – Jeremiah 1:5
You were lost, but now are found – Luke 19:10
You are a fragrance -1 Corinthians 1:15-16
You are free – John8:36
You are freely given all things – Romans 8:32
You are gifted -Romans 12:6
You are given His magnificent promises – 2 Peter 1:3-4
You are given His Holy Spirit – 2 Corinthians 1:22
You are glorified with Him- 2 Thessalonians 2:14
You are God’s child -John1:12
You are God’s gift to Christ – John 17:24
You are gracious-Proverbs 22:11
You are granted grace in Christ Jesus – Romans 5:17,20
You are guarded by God – 2 Timothy 1:12
You are guarded by God’s peace – Philippians 4:7
You are guaranteed-Ephesians 1:13-14
You are guided -Psalm 48:14
You are guiltless -Romans 8:1
You are the head-Deuteronomy 28:13
You are healed – 1 Peter 2:24
You are healthy-Deuteronomy 7:15
You are an heir to eternal life – Titus 3:4-7
You are helped by Him-Isaiah 44:2
You are hidden with Christ in God – Colossians 3:1-4
You are His – Isaiah 43:1
You are God’s handiwork -Ephesians 2:10
You are holy -Ephesians 1:4
You are honored – 2 Timothy 2:21
You are humble- Philippians 2:24
You are the image of God -Genesis 1:27
You are an imitator of God- Ephesians 5:1
You are in Christ Jesus -1 Corinthians 1:30
You are included-Ephesians 1:13
You are indestructible -John 6:51
You are indwelt by Christ Jesus – John 14:20
You are indwelt by His Spirit – Romans 8:11
You are inscribed on His palms – Isaiah 49:16
You are inseparable from His love – Romans 8:35
You are an instrument of righteousness – Romans 6:13
You are joyful-Philippians 4:4
You are a joy to the LORD Zephaniah 3:17
You are justified -Acts 13:39
You are kept – Isaiah38:17
You are in a Kingdom of priests – Revelation 1:6
You are a king’s kid-Psalm 44:4
You are known – 2Timothy 2:19
You lack no wisdom -James1:5
You are lavished with the riches of His grace – Ephesians 1:7-8
You are led in Christ’s triumph – 2 Corinthians 2:14
You are liberated -Romans 6:23
You have life and peace in the Spirit – Romans 8:6
You have light – John8:12
You are a light in a dark place – Acts 13:47
You are life flowingt hrough me – John 7:38
You are like a watered garden – Isaiah 58:11
You are a living stone in a spiritual house – 1 Peter 2:4-5
You are the LORD’s-Isaiah 44:5
You are loved – John3:16
You are loved constantly,unconditionally – Isaiah 58:11
You are loyal – Psalm 86:2
You are made by Him-Psalm 100:3
You are a magnifier of God- Psalm 69:30
You are marked -Ephesians1:13
You are a member of His body – Ephesians 5:30
You are mighty in God-Luke 10:19
You are the mind of Christ- 1 Corinthians 2:16
You are a minister -2 Corinthians 3:6
You are a minister of reconciliation – 2 Corinthians 5:18-19
You are a mountain mover -Mark 11:22-23
You are named -Isaiah 43:1
You are near to God-Ephesians 2:13
You are never forsaken -Hebrews 13:5
You are new -Ephesians 4:24
You are a new creation – 2 Corinthians 5:17
You have new life -Romans 6:4
You are part of a new race- 1 Peter 2:9
You are not condemned-Romans 8:1
You are no longer a slave to sin – Romans 6:6
You have not been given a spirit of fear – 1 Timothy 1:7
You are obedient -Isaiah 1:19
You have received mercy -Romans 9:23
You are obtained an inheritance – Ephesians 1:1
You are of God’s household- Ephesians 2:19
You are on the winning side – Colossians 2:15
You are one with Him-John 17:23-24
You are an overcomer- 1 John 5:4-5
You are pardoned- Jeremiah 33:8
You are a partaker of Christ – Hebrews 3:14
You are a partaker of the Holy Spirit – Hebrews 6:4
You are a partaker of grace – Philippians 1:7
You are a partaker of the promise in Christ – Ephesians 3:6
You have passed from death to life – John 5:24
You are patient -James5:8
You have peace-Philippians 4:7
You are one of the people of God – 1 Peter 2:9
You are being perfected -1 Peter 5:10
You are pleasing toGod -Psalm 149:4
You are God’s own possession – Titus 2:14
You are possessor of all things – 1 Corinthians 3:21-23
You have the power of God behind me – Philippians 3:21
You have power – Acts1:8
You have power over the devil – Luke 9:1
You are predestined-Ephesians 1:11
You are prepared beforehand for glory – Romans 9:23
You are prosperous -Psalm1:3
You are protected -Psalm91:14
You are provided for-Matthew 6:33
You are purchased-Revelation 5:9
You are purposeful -Psalm138:8
You are qualified-Colossians 1:12
You are raised up with Christ – Ephesians 2:6
You are ransomed with Him- Isaiah 35:10
You are rare -Proverbs 20:15
You have received mercy -1 Peter 2:10
You have received an unshakable Kingdom – Hebrews 12:28-29
You are reconciled to God- Romans 5:10
You are redeemed-Galatians 3:13
You are refined -Isaiah 48:10
You are reigning with Him- Romans 5:17
You are rejoicing -Romans 5:2-3
You are renewed – 2 Corinthians 4:16
You are His representative- Matthew 5:16
You are rescued-Colossians 1:13
You have rest provided -Matthew 11:28-30
You are rewarded by God -Isaiah 49:4
You are rich – 2 Corinthians 8:9
You are righteous-Ephesians 4:22
You are rooted and built up in Him – Colossians 2:7
You are royalty -Romans5:17; 8:16-17
You are a royal priesthood- 1 Peter 2:9
You are safe – Psalm4:8
You are a saint of God -Psalm 34:9
You are the salt of the earth- Matthew 5:13
You are sanctified -1 Corinthians 6:11
You are satisfied-Jeremiah 31:14
You are saved -Ephesians 2:8
You are sealed by God with His Holy Spirit – Ephesians 1:13
You are seated with Him -Ephesians 2:6
You are secure -Deuteronomy 33:12
You are sent – John 20:21
You are set free -John 8:31-32,36
You are sharing Christ’s inheritance – Romans 8:17
You are sharing His glory- John 17:22,24
You are His sheep -Psalm 23:1
You are sheltered -Psalm 91:1
You are shielded -Psalm 91:4
You are a slave to righteousness – Romans 6:18
You are His soldier -2 Timothy 2:3-4
You are a son of God-Romans 8:14
You are stable -Isaiah33:6
You are standing in His grace – Romans 5:2
You are standing firm in Christ – 2 Corinthians 1:21
You have my steps established by the LORD – Psalm 37:23
You are strengthened in Him – Ephesians 3:16
You are strong in the LORD- 1 Corinthians 1:8
You are amply supplied -Philippians 4:18
You are sustained from birth – Psalm 71:6
You are a temple -1Corinthians 3:16
You are thought about-Psalm 139:17-18
You are transferredinto His Kingdom – Colossians 1:13
You are transformed -2 Corinthians 3:18
You are treasured -Psalm 83:3
You are triumphant -2 Corinthians 2:14
You are unafraid -Isaiah 44:2; 51:12
You are understood-Ephesians 1:8
You are united with Christ- Romans 6:5
You are upheld -Psalm 37:17
You are upright -Psalm 7:10
You are unblemished-Colossians 1:22
You have understanding – 2 Timothy 2:72
You are useful for His glory – Isaiah 43:7
You are valuable -Luke 12:24
You live in victory -1 Corinthians 15:57
You are walking in His light – 1 John 1:7
You are a warrior – 2Corinthians 10:4
You are washed -Titus 3:5
You are watching for His return – Luke 12:37
You are weak, then
You are strong – 2 Corinthians 12:10
You are in a wealthy place- Psalm 66:12
You are welcome -Luke 11:9
You are being made whole -Mark 5:34
You can put on the whole armor of God – Ephesians 6:11
You are wise – Proverbs 2:6
No one can fulfill you -transform you -satisfy you like Jesus.
Until next time, rejoice in the work He is doing in your life.
HalleluYah (Praise God)
Today,- be blessed! Rejoice *in the LORD*- always!
Today, ~ May the high praises of God be in their mouth and a two-edged sword in their hand! ~
I like! Thanks Carl for taking the time to write this up!
What a laundry list of gifts….provided by our Father!
Shalom
I am so heartbroken over this news. At the same time this makes me aware of the times in my life when I either made bad choices or bad things happened that I thought would end up destroying my future. I often wonder now why I would ever want to erase from my portrait the very colors God used to bring me to faith in Him. Now that “years have passed”, I have the advantage of being able to look back and see where God used those broken and shattered pieces of my life in order to bring me to a place of desperation where I would call upon Him. So, that is my prayer for Irene. Yes, she could have had her running career…and she could also have, in all that goes with that, lost the possibility of having strong faith in God because she became self-sufficient. Maybe this is the path she needs to walk which will lead her to unshakable faith in the One who created her. A hard, painful, lonely path, for sure.