2 CORINTHIANS ~ Chapter 7/Thursday Bible Study

It has been quite a while since I have posted my weekly Scripture studies – there have been a lot of changes in my life, and I took time to “go to the mountaintop” for meditation rest, and renewal … as Yeshua did many times.

But, it is time now to pick up the slack, and get back on track 😉

I hope you will enjoy this post as much as I enjoyed reading it, and posting it – time spent with God’s Word is always a joy, and time well spent 😊

Saul (aka Paul): The great Apostle to the Gentiles, Saul was born at Tarsus of Cilicia into a proud and strict Pharisee family, and given the Hebrew Name Saul. He was as equally proud of being born a Roman Citizen. A highly educated Jew, Saul studied in Jerusalem under Rabbi Gamaliel, and religiously observed the requirements of The Law. Saul, however, had misgivings about his ability to keep every part of The Law, and believed that legalism could not bring about the right relationship with Elohim. Although Saul had never met Yeshua during His earthly mission, he had encountered the earliest Believers, and he recognized the threat that belief in Yeshua posed to Judaism: Saul quickly became the most ardent prosecutor of the Early Church – and he was an approving onlooker at Stephen’s martyrdom, and was carrying lists of suspected Christian believers in Damascus, when he experienced a radical life change. His conversion on the Damascus Road changed the course of Christian faith … and civilization … itself. Temporarily blinded, Saul – the prosecutor who had been confronted by Elohim hayyim (the Living Lord) Yeshua (Jesus), was led to Ananias’ house/was baptized “Paul”, then smuggled out of town to escape reprisals.

After a brief sojourn in Arabia, Paul visited Jerusalem and stayed briefly with Peter and James; Yeshua’s brothers (born of his earthly Mother, Mary). After this visit, Paul apparently lived quietly for several years in Cilicia, preaching the Gospel and supporting himself by weaving the black goat hair material for tents that was a famous product for the area near Tarsus. He was called by Barnabas, his acquaintance from Jerusalem, to help the dynamic Christian Church in Antioch. Shortly afterwards, the Antioch Christians sent Paul and Barnabas on a preaching mission through Cyprus and Asia Minor. On this, and subsequent journey’s, Paul stirred up heated opposition by his preaching. His presentation of the Gospel was resented in Jewish circles because it usually split local synagogues – on the other hand, his efforts were quickly opposed by members of the Christian community, who insisted that it was necessary to keep the requirements of the Jewish Law before one could become a Christian Believer. The infant Church was torn with controversy over Paul’s preaching.

Paul insisted that man is saved by what Elohei has done through Yeshua Ha’Mashiach – not by what man does in keeping The Law. The controversy was partially resolved by a Church Council in Jerusalem, when the leaders agreed that Paul’s point was valid, and that he could continue to welcome Gentiles to the Faith without compelling them to be circumcised.

Paul’s subsequent ministry was packed with high adventure, heavy responsibilities, and deep suffering. As the greatest Christian missionary, he organized and encouraged young Churches throughout Asia Minor: and even crossed over to Europe. Much of the New Covenant (New Testament) was written by Paul in the form of letters dashed off to his “problem” churches, or to his friend’s needing advice.

Against the advice of his associates, he insisted on going in person to Jerusalem with a special offering collected for the poor. Extremists among the Jewish authorities arranged for his arrest and imprisonment. After languishing two years under arrest without trial, Paul insisted on a hearing before the emperor. He had a harrowing trip to Rome, was apparently acquitted, then re-arrested. All traditions agree that Paul was beheaded before another lengthy imprisonment, probably during Nero’s bloody persecution period. Acts 13:38; Romans; 1 & 2 Corinthians; Galatians; Ephesians; Philippians; Colossians; 1 & 2 Thessalonians; 1 & 2 Timothy; Titus; Philemon; and 2 Peter 3:15.

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2 CORINTHIANS ~ Chapter 7; Saul’s (Paul’s) Appeal for a Renewal of Fellowship within the Body of Believers.

“With promises like these, beloved, let us make ourselves clean from everything that defiles body and soul, and strive toward perfect holiness in the fear of *Elohim. Receive us into your hearts. We have not wronged anyone. We have not corrupted anyone. We have not made profit out of any man. I am not saying this to condemn you, for I have already told you that you are dear to us, both to die together and to live together. I trust you; I am proud of you; I am much encouraged by you; I rejoice in spite of our troubles. (vv.1-4)

Comfort Brought by Titus’ Report

Already when we come to Macedonia we had troubles – we could not rest our bodies. We were oppressed on every side; we had fighting’s and fears within. But Elohim, Who lifts up the downcast, comforted us by the coming of Titus. And not only did his coming comfort us, but also the comfort that you had given him was a help. For he told us how you longed to see us, how sorry and zealous you were in my behalf, all of which made me rejoice the more. (vv. 5-7)

Frank Letter and It’s Results

Even though I grieved you with my letter, I do not regret having sent it; although I did regret it at the time, when I heard that it had caused you sorrow. Now I am happy about it, not because you were unhappy, but because your grief brought you to **repentance. Your grief was then as Elohim would have it to be, so that you suffered no harm from us in any way. For the grief that Elohim approves of results in a repentance that leads to salvation, and leaves no regrets. A worldly grief, on the other hand, results in death.

Take note how this Godly sorrow has worked in you; what earnestness it worked in you, what eagerness to defend yourselves, what indignation, what fear, what longing, what zeal, what willingness to discipline! In every way you have cleared yourself in this matter. (vv. 8-11)

Paul’s Confidence in the Corinthians

I wrote to you, but really not so much on account of the man who was doing wrong nor for the sake of the one who was suffering wrong, but rather to let you see yourselves, as before Elohim, how devoted (dedicated, loyal, dutiful, faithful, committed, resolute, unwavering, purposeful, persevering) to us you really are. All this has given us comfort. And, in addition to our own comfort from you, we have been still more overjoyed at Titus’ joy, because he was refreshed in spirit by all of you. You see, if I had boasted of you to him, I have not been put to shame. For just as all I said to you was true, so what I said about you to Titus, in a boasting (possessing, enjoying, lay claim to) way, proved to be true. His heart goes out to you more than ever now, as he recalls the way all of you obeyed (submitted, followed, observed, yielded to) him and how you received (acknowledged, heard, grasped, welcomed) him with respect (consideration, accept) and reverence (hold to the highest regard). It gives me joy to say that you have justified (proved, upheld) my good opinion of you in every way. (vv. 12-16)

 

*Elohim (from the Hebrew word, el-o-heem) = the Supreme God. Exceedingly great and mighty.

**Repentance (from the Greek word, metanoia: met-an’-oy-ah) = compunction (for guilt, includ. Reformation); by implied reversal of previous decision: to think differently or afterwards (i.e., to reconsider).

 

**2 CORINTHIANS 6: https://jeastofeden.blogspot.com/2020/02/2-corinthians-chapter-6.html

2 CORINTHIANS ~ Chapter 6

2 CORINTHIANS ~ Chapter 6

“Working together with Elohim, we entreat you not to fail to use His grace. For He says, ‘I listened to you at the right time, and helped you on the day of salvation. Behold! Now is the right time, now is the day of salvation.’ We do not want to give offense in anything, lest fault may be found with or ministry. We want to prove ourselves good servants of Elohim in every way; through great endurance, affliction, distresses, calamities, floggings, imprisonments, riots, sleepless nights and hunger: in purity, knowledge, forbearance, and kindness, by The Ruach Ha’Kodesh and in sincere love. We must rely on the truth of The Word and the power of Elohei, and must be armed with weapons of righteousness for the right hand and the left. We must experience honor and dishonor, ill repute and good repute. They call us imposters, though we are not. They rate us as unknown, yet we are well known; we are said to be dying, but, see! We live: being punished, but not yet put to death. We are sad, yet always happy; poor, yet making many rich – having nothing, yet possessing everything needed.

We have spoken freely to you, Corinthians; our hearts are thrown wide open to you. Our affections towards you are not restricted, but rather, you are restricted in your own affections. In return – now I speak as to children – you should widen your affections toward us.

Do not be mismated with unbelievers. For what partnership has righteousness with lawlessness? And what fellowship has light with darkness? Or what agreement is there between Mashiach and Belial? Or what has a Believer in common with an unbeliever? What alliance is there between a temple of Elohei, and idols? Elohei has said that we are the Temple of The Living God. He said, ‘I will live in them, and move among them, and I will be their God; and they will be My People. Therefore,’ says Adonai Yeshua, ‘come out from them and be separate; touch nothing unclean, and I will receive you. And I will be a Father to you, and you shall be My sons and daughters’, says the Lord Almighty.” (Leviticus 26:12 & Isaiah 52:11)

**2 CORINTHIANS 5: https://jeastofeden.blogspot.com/2020/01/2-corinthians-chapter-5.html

2 CORINTHIANS ~ Chapter 4

2 CORINTHIANS ~ Chapter 4

“Through His mercy, we have taken up this service; therefore, we are not faint-hearted. We have put a ban on secret and disgraceful methods. We refuse to practice deceit and to falsify the Word of God. But, by an open statement of the truth, we would commend ourselves before Elohim to the conscience of every man. And if there is a veil also over our Gospel, it is there only to those that are lost. They are the unbelievers whose minds the god of this world has blinded. They are kept from seeing the radiant light of the Gospel of the glory of mashiach, Who is Elohim’s own likeness.

Surely, what we preach is not ourselves, but Yeshua Ha’Mashiach as Adonai ; and about ourselves we simply say that we are your servants for Yeshua’s sake. For Elohim, Who once said, ‘Let light shine out of darkness’, has shone in our hearts to give us light and to give us knowledge of Elohei’s glory, as seen int eh face of Yeshua Ha’Mashiach.

We keep this treasure in bodies of clay, to show that the surpassing power is from Elohim and is not in us. And so, though we are at times perplexed, we are never crushed; and though we are persecuted, we are not forsaken; ad though struck down, we are not destroyed. In our bodies we always carry with us the death of Adonai Yeshua, so that the life of Yeshua may also be set forth in our lives. That is, if while still living we are always suffering death on account of Yeshua, it is in order that the living power of Yeshua may also work in our mortal frame. So, while death is at work in us, life is also working in you.

We have the same kind of faith as the one who wrote, “I believed, therefore, I spoke”, and so we speak as we believe. We know that He also raised Adonai Yeshua from the dead will also raise us with Yeshua, and will give us, together with you, a place in His glory. We are doing all these things for your sake, so that, as grace reaches out to more and more, the thanksgiving that will go up in praise to Elohim will also increase.

No, we do not lose heart. On the contrary, even when our outer nature is wearing out, our inner nature is, notwithstanding, being renewed from day to day. We have trials, but they are light and for the moment only, and they work out for us a blessedness that is beyond all comparison, and everlasting. Oh, if we could turn our thoughts to things unseen, rather than to things visible! For the things we see are transitory, but things unseen are eternal.

**2 CORINTHIANS 3: https://jeastofeden.blogspot.com/2020/01/2-corinthians-chapter-3.html

2 CORINTHIANS ~ Chapter 3

2 CORINTHIANS ~ Chapter 3

“Are we beginning to recommend ourselves again? Do we need letters of recommendation to you, or from you? You are our letter. The writing is in your heart, read and understood by everyone. It is plain that you are a letter from Mashiach (Christ), because of our work, written not with ink, but with The Ruach of the Living God, and not on stone tablets, but on tablets of human hearts. We have such a confidence in Elohei through Mashiach. It is not that we are competent of ourselves to think that we ourselves can do anything good. No, our competency comes from Elohei. He has made us competent to serve as ministers of the New Covenant. It is a covenant, not of the letter (aka: of the Law), but of The Ruach (aka: the Holy Spirit); for the letter kills – but the Spirit gives life.

The Law, engraved on stone, served to bring death penalties, yet it came with such splendor that the children of Israel could not look on the face of Moshe (Moses) because of its brightness, a glory that soon faded away. Why should not the service rendered by the Spirit have a much greater glory? For if the service of the Law, resulting in condemnation, had its glory, how much greater and more glorious is the service of The Ruach, causing justification? Truly, in this respect, that which once had been considered glorious no longer seems to be glorious, because of the new glory that surpasses it. For if what has been annulled came in glory, how much more glorious is the present Plan, which is to remain!

And because we have such a hope we speak with much boldness. We are not like Moshe, who covered his face with a veil, which prevented the Israelites from gazing at the end of something that was to fade. Their minds were hardened, so that to this day, whenever the Old Covenant is being read, the same veil is still there, still unlifted, for only through Mashiach can it be taken away. Yes, it is true that to this day, whenever Moshe is read, that veil lies over their hearts. But if one turns to Adonai (the Lord) the veil is removed. Now Adonai is The Ruach, and where The Ruach of Adonai is, there is freedom. And then with unveiled faces we can behold, as in a mirror, the glory of Adonai Yeshua. And we become changed into His likeness, from glory to glory, through The Ruach of Adonai Yeshua Ha’Mashiach working in us.”

**2 CORINTHIANS 2: https://jeastofeden.blogspot.com/2020/01/2-corinthians-chapter-2.html

2 CORINTHIANS ~ Chapter 1

2 CORINTHIANS ~ Chapter 1

“This is from Paul, n Apostle of Yeshua Ha’Mashiach by the Will of Elohim, and also from Brother Timothy, to the Church of God in Corinth, as well as all the other Saints in the whole land of Greece. Grace be to you, and peace, from Abba Elohim, and Adonai Yeshua Ha’Mashiach!

Blessed be Elohim, God and Father of our Adonai Yeshua Ha’Mashiach; the merciful Father – the God of every comfort! He comforts us in all our troubles, so that we may be able to comfort others who are in trouble, with the same comfort that we ourselves have received from Elohim. The sufferings of Mashiach have, indeed, come int our lives plentifully, yet through Mashiach we have received abundant consolation.

So, too, if we have trials to endure, they should be for your comfort and salvation. That is, if you have been tried and have endured, you will receive comfort as we have. Again, if we receive comfort, that is also intended for your comfort and salvation. It makes our hopes for you all the more sure when we know that you share with us both in sufferings and encouragements.

Brethren we want you to know something about the sufferings that came upon us in Asia. They we so overwhelming that our strength could not hold out, and we despaired to life itself. It seemed to us as though we had been sentenced to death, but the purpose of this was to make us lose confidence in ourselves and place it in Elohim, Who is able to raise the dead. Yes, He saved us from imminent death, and He will save us in the future. You also can work together with us, and for us, by your prayers. And may will thank Elohim for His favors to us, no doubt answers to the prayers of many people.

We boast of this, and our conscience backs us up, that our general behavior in public, and especially together with you, was one of holy living and godly sincerity, which was not by human cunning but by Elohim’s grace. I am not saying anything that you cannot understand as well as read, and I trust that you will admit this even to the end of this letter. You have already in part recognized us, that we are your pride as you are ours, and so it will be on the Day of Adonai Yeshua.

Because of my confidence in you, I planned on coming to you first, so that you would enjoy our two visits. That is, I should stop at your place in going to Macedonia, and in coming from Macedonia I should again come to you, and you would see me off on my way to Judea. This is, indeed, my intention, and was there anything fickle in that? Or do I make my plans like some worldly man, saying, “yes, yes”, and changing it to “no, no”, according to circumstances? As surely as Elohim is faithful, or word to you was not of the “yes-no” variety. Yeshua Ha’Mashiach, the Son of Almighty God, whom we (Silvanus, Timothy, and I) preached among you, was not a “yes-no” Man, but in Him was “Yes”. In Him all the promises of Elohei are “Yes”, and in Him they are “Amen”, and for this we give glory to Elohim. For it is Elohim Who has confirmed our faith and your faith in Mashiach, and Elohim Who has anointed us. He has set His Seal on us, and has given His Ruach in our hearts as a pledge.

Upon my soul, I call Elohei as witness that the reason that I did not come toy u at Corinth was to spare you. We do not aim to rule over you or your faith. Rather, we are working together with you to make you happy. It is, of course, by faith that you stand.”

**1 CORINTHIANS 16: https://jeastofeden.blogspot.com/2019/12/1-corinthians-chapter-16.html

1 CORINTHIANS ~ Chapter 16

Today’s study is the last chapter of this Book. Next week we begin Paul’s 2^nd Corinthians Tome.

In this chapter, Paul advises Christians to financially put aside what they can spare to help the needy contributions for other Christians.

We also read of a private family being equated to a church: every Christian family, should, in some respects, be a Christian church. In some cases (as, for instance, if they find themselves in situations where there are no other Christians in their immediate vicinity), they should be a church themselves and live in the use of all ordinances … living under the direction of Christian rules, and daily offer up Christian worship. Wherever 2 or more are gathered together, and Mashiach Yeshua is among them, there is a church.

Since the vineyard doctrine – which embraces all form of heresy and eastern religion practices, has become the favored doctrine preached and embraced in ALL mainstream churches globally, Bob & I have been “a church”, hosting other Christians in our home, for decades.

I continue to be a church; hosting in our home and fellowshipping in other homes that adhere to and teach the pure and unadulterated Gospel of Yeshua Ha’Mashiach. The Gospel of Yeshua Ha’Mashiach is NOT about numbers and becoming a networking religious social club that makes allowances for rampant sin (as vineyard ‘ministries’ does) … it IS about life-giving/life-changing/repentant LIFE found in Yeshua ;-)

1 CORINTHIANS ~Chapter 16

“And now, a word about offering, to help the needy Saints. I have already directed the churches in Galatia as to what to do, and I should like to have you follow the same procedure. On the 1^st day of each week, each one of you should put something aside, according to personal financial ability, and save it, so that the solicitations need not be made when I arrive. Then, on my arrival, I shall give letters of recommendations to the persons you have selected, and send them on with your contribution to Jerusalem. And, if it proves convenient for me to go also, they may go with me as my companions.

I intend to come to you after I have visited Macedonia, for I have to pass through there. I expect to stay with you some time, and may even pass the winter with you, so you may have a chance to help me on my way from there to whatever points I ay decide to go. I do not want to visit you now, for that would have to be just a brief call; but later I hope to come and stay with you for a longer time, if Adonai permits me. I intend to stay on in Ephesus until Pentecost. A door has opened to me here to do great and good work, although there are also many who are hostile.

If Timothy comes to you, make hi feel at home with you. He works diligently for Adonai Yeshua, as I, too, try to do. Therefore, there is no reason why anyone should look down on him. And send him on his way back to me, with your prayers, for I am expecting to meet him here with some other brethren.

As for Brother Apollos, I urged him strongly to go with the brethren to see you, but e was not at all willing to come just now. But he will come when he has an opportunity.

Be on your guard – stand firm in The Faith – be manly, be strong. Let everything you do be done in love.

You know that the first converts in Greece were from the family of Stephanas, and that they have devoted themselves to the service of the Saints. Now I have a request to make of you, brethren. I beg of you that you put yourselves under leaders like these, and under anyone who cooperates with you and helps in Adonai Yeshua’s work. I am happy over the arrival of Stephanas, Fortunatus, & Achaicus, for they supplied what you needed. They refreshed my spirit, and yours, too. You should, therefore, acknowledge their help.

The churches of Asia send greetings to you. Also, Aquila & Prisca (Pricilla), and the congregation that meets at their house, salute you cordially in Adonai. All the brethren wish to be remembered. Greet one another with a holy kiss.

Finally, this greeting from myself – made with my own hand. Our Lord is coming. A curse be on anyone who does not love Adonai Yeshua Ha’Mashiach.

The grace of Adonai Yeshua Ha’Mashiach be with you! My love be with you all in Mashiach Yeshua! Amen!”

**1 CORINTHIANS 15: https://jeastofeden.blogspot.com/2019/12/1-corinthians-chapter-15-resurrection.html

1 CORINTHIANS ~Chapter 14

So …

This chapter always causes a firestorm in church between men and women.

So, let me clarify the hot potato topic: v. 34 – women talking in church. When this book was written Jewish men and women were separated in the synagogues by a partition: Greek men and women freely mingled, and Greek women were very vociferous; that lead to chaos. Greeks thrived on chaos – chaos was their religion. ALL THIS VERSE IS SAYING IS: save the loud and boisterous questions for later on – at home. When in a public house of worship, let calmness reign: do not shout across the room for your husband to clarify something for you! Ask for clarification at home.

Obviously, women spoke in fellowship gatherings – some women were even ministering women. There are many, many instances where Jewish women were placed in positions of leadership. THIS PARTICULAR VERSE DOES NOT SPEAK TO THAT ISSUE.

It is okay for women to speak in fellowship – it is not okay for women to shout across the room to get their husband’s attention.

That said, let us commence to reading today’s Study ;-)

1 CORINTHIANS ~Chapter 14

Make love your goal, and aspire to all the spiritual gifts, especially that of prophesy. For when one speaks in a strange tongue, he speaks not so much to men as to Elohim, because no one understands him. He is really telling mysteries of The Ruach Ha’Kodesh. He who prophesies, on the other hand, speaks to men for their upbuilding, encouragement, and consolation.

When one speaks in an unknown tongue, he may edify himself, but when he prophesies, he edifies the whole congregation. Surely, I wish that all of you could speak in tongues; but I would much rather have you prophecy. He who prophecies is more important than the man who speaks with tongues, unless he interprets what he says so that the faith of the congregation may be strengthened.

Brethren, suppose I come to you speaking in tongues, what good could I do if I did not bring you some revelation, or information, or prophecy, or teaching? Even lifeless instruments, such as the flute or the harp, might give some distinct sound, foe how else can anyone know what is played? So also, the bugle – if it does not give a clear note, who will be ready for battle? Therefore, in speaking, you too must use a language that men can understand, otherwise how would anyone know what you say? You would just be talking into the air!

Truly, there are in the world many different languages, and none without meaning. But if I do not understand the meaning of a language, I am a foreigner to the man who speaks it, and he is a foreigner to me. So it is with you. Since you are eager to acquire spiritual gifts, ask for them in abundant measure, for the upbuilding of the church. Therefore, the man who speaks in a tongue should pray for the power to interpret his message.

Now, if I pray in a strange tongue, my spirit does the praying but my understanding is blank. What must I do? I will pray with my spirit, but also with my understanding. And I will sing praises with my spirit, but also with my understanding. Otherwise, if you pronounce a blessing in The Ruach, how can an unlearned man say “Amen” to your thanksgiving if he does not understand what you are saying? It is well enough for you to give thanks that way, but it is of no value to the man who cannot understand you.

I am thankful to Elohim that I speak in tongues, more than all of you. Still, in public worship I would rather speak 5 words that are understandable, so as to instruct others, than 10,000 words in a strange tongue.

Brethren, do not be children in your thinking. In matters of evil, be as babes: but in understanding you must be grown up. In the Law it is written. “I will speak to this people in other languages and by other lips, and yet not even so will they listen to Me, says the Lord”.

So, this speaking in tongues is intended for a sign, not for the Believers – but for the unbelievers; whereas prophesying is a sign for the Believer rather than the unbeliever. For if the whole congregation is assembled and everyone speaks in tongues, and some untaught persons or unbelievers happen to come in, would they not say that you are demented? But if everyone prophesies, and some unbeliever or untaught person should come in, then he may be convinced of his sin by all, and all will put questions to him. In short, the secrets of his heart will be revealed and he will fall upon his face and worship Elohim, declaring, “God is truly among you!”

What can we learn from this my Brethren? When you come together, each one may have a part to contribute – a song, a teaching, a speaking in tongues, a revelation, or an interpretation … Everything should aim at building up The Faith. If anyone speaks in a tongue, let it be done by 2, or at most, 3 speakers, one after the other, with an interpreter. And, if there is no one present to explain what was said, let them remain silent in the meeting and each speak his message to himself and to Elohim.

The number of prophets to speak should be limited to 2 or 3, while the others should consider carefully what is said. If a revelation comes to someone seated, let the first speaker stop talking. You can all witness, one by one, and in this way, all may learn and all may be stimulated. The prophets should exercise control over themselves. For Elohim is a God of peace, not of disorder, as can be seen in all the assemblies of saints.

Your women must keep silent at the church meetings. They must take a subordinate place, as the Law says. If they have questions to ask, they may ask their husbands at home. For, it is considered a disgrace for women to speak in the church. Did the Word of Elohei originate with you, or, are you the ones whom it has reached?

What I am writing to you is at Adonai Yeshua’s command. If any one of you thinks that he is a prophet or inspired, let him recognize the fact. If he does not admit it, let him remain in ignorance. Anyway, brethren, strive to prophesy and, as for speaking in tongues, do not forbid that. And always see to it that everything is done properly and in orderly manner.

**1 CORINTHIANS 13: https://jeastofeden.blogspot.com/2019/10/1-corinthians-chapter-13.html

1 CORINTHIANS ~Chapter 13

1 CORINTHIANS ~Chapter 13

If I speak with the tongue of men and even of angels, but have not love, I am like a noisy gong or a clanging cymbal. And, if I could prophesy, and could understand all the mysteries, and knew everything, and if I had perfect faith so that I could remove mountains, but lacked love – I would be nothing. Again, if I gave away all my goods to buy food for the poor, and gave my body to be burned, yet had no love, it would be no profit to me.

Love is patient. Love is kind. Love is not envious, or vain-glorious, or arrogant. Love is not unmannerly, does not pursue selfish aims, is not quickly irritated, does not think evil. Love takes no pleasure in wickedness, but rejoices in the truth. Love is considerate in all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.

Love never fails. Prophesies will come to an end, speaking in tongues will cease. Knowledge will pass away. For our knowledge is only in part, and our prophesies are likewise imperfect. But, when the perfect comes, then the imperfect will disappear. So, when I was a child I spoke as a child, I thought as a child, I reasoned as a child; but when I became a man I gave up my childish ways. At present, we seem to see only blurred reflections in a mirror, but then it will be face to face. Now, I know only in part – but then, I shall understand fully, even as Elohim has fully understood me. And now we still have faith, hope, love … these 3 remain, but the greatest of all these is love.

**1 CORINTHIANS 12: https://jeastofeden.blogspot.com/2019/10/1-corinthians-chapter-12.html

1 CORINTHIANS ~Chapter 12

1 CORINTHIANS ~Chapter 12

Brethren, I do not want you to be ignorant in regard to spiritual gifts. This you know, that while you were pagans you sought to worship dumb idols, just the way you had been taught. For this reason, I want you to know this: no one who speaks by The Ruach says that Yeshua is accursed, and no one confesses Him as *Adonai except by the same Ruach.

There are different kinds of gifts, but it is the same Ruach who gives them. And there are different kinds of service, but it is the same Adonai to be served. And again, there are different ways of doing things, but it is the same God Who uses these ways – **different ways in different men – throughout.

To each one is given the manifestation of The Ruach, for the good of all concerned. To one, The Ruach gives a word of wisdom. To another, the same Ruach gives the word of knowledge. One man receives faith and another receives the gift of healing; both from the same Ruach. And so on … one can perform miracles, another can prophesy, another can discern between spirts, another can speak in different tongues; another can interpret the tongues. It it is the one and same Ruach Who is at work, distributing His gifts to each one individually according to His good Will.

A man’s body is a unity, though it has many members. All the members of the body, though many, are one body. So it is with Mashiach. And by one Ruach we have through baptism been made members of one body – Jews and Greeks alike, slave & free – and all have been given to drink at one Source, and the one Ruach.

However, the body, does not consist of only one member, but of many. If the foot should say, “Because I am not a hand, I am not part of the body”, would it any less belong to the body? And, if it could say to the ear, “I do not belong to the body”, is it not part of the body just the same? If the whole body were an eye, for example, where would be the hearing? Or, if the whole body were an ear, where would be the sense of smell? Now, as things are, Elohei has placed the organs of the body, each one of them according to His own Plan.

If all the parts were 1 single organ, where would the body be? As it is, though, we have many parts, yet only 1 body. So the eye cannot say to the hand, “I don’t need you”; nor again the hand to the feet, “I have no need of you”. But much rather it is the members of the body which seem to be the weaker that are the most indispensable. And those organs of the body which we regard almost devoid of honor, are those we surround with special honor, and the more private parts are treated with the greatest modesty and respect. Those parts in us which are more beautiful have no need of such care; and so Elohei has built up the body harmoniously, giving more honor to those parts that need it the most. There was to be no lack of unity in the body. All the members of it were to be concerned about their common welfare. Then, if one of the parts suffers pain, all the other parts feel that pain; and if one part is honored, all the other arts have found joy in it.

Now you are the Body of Mashiach, and individually you are members of it. In His Church, Elohei has made arrangements: first, Apostles; second, Prophets; third, Teachers/ Also, workers of miracles, men with the gift of healing; helpers and administrators; speakers in foreign tongues, & interpreters. Are all the members apostles? Are all of them prophets? Are they all teachers? Do they all work miracles? Do they all have the gift of healing, or speak in foreign languages, or interpret? As for you, desire earnestly the higher gifts. I will show you a far better way.

**1 CORINTHIANS 11: https://jeastofeden.blogspot.com/2019/09/1-corinthians-chapter-11.html

*NOTE: Yeshua IS God … and yet, Yeshua is A SEPARATE ENTITY FROM God – There are 3 in the Godhead: Father, Son, Holy Spirit – ALL ARE GOD; yet, all are unique and have defining attributes that work in harmony to make The One True God.

I say this so clarify this link:

http://www.hebrew-streams.org/works/monotheism/2-lords.html

**Though we are all part of the family of God when we get saved, we are not all called to minister in the same manner … and even then, what we are doing now in ministry will change as necessity arises: we no longer belong to ourselves; we belong to Elohim; and He will use us as pleases Him to accomplish His goals for His Supreme Plan. It takes different ways to reach different people, and wise Christians understand that and lend themselves to the winds of The Ruach. We are never to engage in sin, and yet we are to “become all things to all men” (1 Corinthians 9:19-23) that we may reach them with the Good News. In this, we are to be wise. We are to example Mashiach Yeshua in ALL ways - Who is the embodiment of the fullness of Elohei. We do this by relying on The Ruach, Who teaches us all things concerning the way

1 CORINTHIANS ~Chapter 11

1 CORINTHIANS ~Chapter 11

Follow my example, even as I follow Mashiach. I want you to give you full credit, brethren, for not forgetting me, and for upholding the traditions that I passed unto you. And this I want you to understand, that the head of every man is Mashiach, the head of every woman is her husband, and the head of Mashiach is Elohim. If a man prays or prophesies with his head covered, he dishonors his head. On the other hand – if a woman prays or prophesies with her head uncovered, she dishonors her head. She might as well have her head shaven. If a woman will not wear a covering for her head, she should get her hair cut, too. But if it is a disgrace for a woman to be shorn or shaven, then she should wear a covering.

A man ought not to cover his head, for he represents the person and glory of Elohei, but a woman represents the glory of man. Man was not created from woman, but the woman from man. Indeed, man was not created for the woman’s sake, but woman for man’s sake. For this reason a woman ought to have on her head a sign of man’s authority for the angels to see. In the sight of Elohei, man is not independent of woman, and woman is not independent of man. For just as the woman was created out of man – man is born of a woman; and everything, including humankind, comes from Elohei.

But judge for yourselves: is it proper for a woman to pray to Elohim with nothing on her head? Does not nature itself teach you that it is a disgrace for a man to have long hair? But for a woman to have long hair is different; that is her pride, for her long hair is given to her as a covering. If anyone wishes to argue this matter, I can say that we have no such custom (of women going bareheaded) in any of the congregations.

And, while instructing you, let me mention one thing about which I cannot give you praise: it is this – that when you come together to worship you often do more harm than good. When you meet as a congregation, you immediately divide up into factions. This is what I hear, and I can believe it in measure. Of course, there must be some division among you, otherwise, those who are right could not be known. Another thing; when you meet together you do not come to celebrate the Lord’s Supper. Each one hastens to eat the supper that he has prepared for himself, so that one man goes away hungry and another gets too much to drink. Don’t you have homes where you can eat and drink? Or do you simply despise Elohim’s church and humiliate the poor? What ought I say to you? Praise you? No, I cannot approve.

I receive this account from Adonai Yeshua, and have given it to you: in the night in which He was betrayed, Yeshua took bread. And when He had given thanks, He broke it and gave it to His disciples, saying, “Take, eat; this is My body, which is broken for you – do this, in remembrance of Me.”

After the same manner also, when he had supped, He took the cup and, when he had given thanks, He gave it to them, saying, “All of you drink of it. This cup is the New testament in My blood, which was shed for you, and for many – for the remission of sins. Do this, as often as you drink it, in remembrance of Me.”

For as often as you eat this bread and drink this cup, you proclaim Adonai Yeshua’s death until He returns. Therefore, if anyone eats this bread or drinks this cup unworthily, he will be held to account for Adonai Yeshua’s body & blood. No one should eat the bread of drink the cup unless he has first examined himself; for if one eats or drinks unworthily, he eats or drinks judgment on himself: not recognizing Adonai Yeshua’s body. Because of this indifference, many of you are feeble and sickly, and some have died. But, if we examined ourselves carefully, we should escape this misfortune. And in case Elohim passes sentence on us, He disciplines us to save us if possible from being condemned along with the wicked world. So, brethren, when you come to celebrate the Lord’s Supper, wait for one another. Those of you who are hungry should first eat your meal at home, so that your celebration will not bring His condemnation on you. There are other questions which I shall try to settle in person when I come.

**1 CORINTHIANS 10: https://jeastofeden.blogspot.com/2019/09/1-corinthians-chapter-10.html

1 CORINTHIANS ~Chapter 10

1 CORINTHIANS ~Chapter 10

“I want to remind you, brethren, that our fathers all marched out of Egypt under the pillar of cloud, and all passed through the Red Sea. And they were all baptized in the cloud and in the sea as followers of Moshe. Furthermore, they all ate the same spiritual food. And they all drank the same spiritual drink, for they drank of the Spiritual Rock that followed them, and that Rock was Mashiach. Yet most of them disappointed Elohim, and their dead bones lay strewn in the wilderness.

These events are examples to us, warning us not to want to do evil as they did, for as Scripture says, ‘The people sat down to eat and drink, and roe up to dance.’ We are not to commit fornication, as some of them did, and 23,000 of whom fell dead in one day. Nor must we try the patience of Yeshua, as some of them did, and they were killed by serpents. We must not grumble, as some of them did, for which they were put to death by the destroying angel (Exodus 32:4 & 6; Numbers 25:1-18, 16:41 & 49, and 21:5 & 6).

These events that happened to them are examples, and are recorded as warnings to us who now live toward the end of time. It means this, that he who is sure he stands safely must take care for fear he may fall. You have had no temptation except such as is common to men. And Elohei is faithful, for He will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear, and when temptation does come, He will provide a way out of it so that you can come through victoriously.

My beloved brethren, shun idol worship altogether. I am talking to men of understanding, so you must weigh carefully what I say. The cup of blessing, which we take – is it not the blood of Mashiach that we share with Him? And the bread we break – is it not the body of Mashiach that we also share with Him? Though we are many, the one loaf makes us all one body, for we all share in the one bread.

See how the Jews do it! Are not those who eat the sacrifices, partners in the altar services? Now, what do I mean? A I saying that an idol-god really exists, or that food sacrificed to idols has some value? Not at all; for what the heathen sacrifice, they offer to devils, and not to Elohei. And I do not want to you to have any fellowship with devils. You cannot drink both the cup of Mashiach and the cup of devils. You cannot be a guest at both the Lord’s Supper and at the table of devils. Or are we trying to stir up Elohim’s anger? Surely, we are not stronger than He is, are we?

As I said, everything is lawful to me, but not everything is good for me, so I can add – everything is lawful for me, but not everything is constructive. Let no one, then, work only for his own good, but rather let each one seek the good of others. You may eat what is sold at the markets without ask any questions to satisfy your conscience. The Earth, with all that is in it, belongs to Mashiach.

Should some unbeliever ask you to dinner, and you wish to go, eat what is set before you without asking about anything to satisfy your conscience. But if someone says, ‘Thi9s was offered to an idol’, then do not eat it, considering your informant and that it is a matter of conscience. I refer not to your conscience, but to his. But why should my freedom be determined by another’s conscience? Or, why should they speak evil of me if I eat my meal in thankfulness and give thanks for what I eat? You should always give Elohim the glory, whether you eat or drink, or do anything else. Give no offense to Jew or Greek, not to the Church of God. It is my desire to please everyone in everything I do. I do not strive for personal profit, but seek the good of as many as possible, in order that they may be saved.’

**1 CORINTHIANS 9: https://jeastofeden.blogspot.com/2019/08/1st-corinthians-chapter-9.html

1st CORINTHIANS ~Chapter 9

In this study today, Paul seems to be complaining because he feels overworked, and underpaid.

Well … that can be said, of ALL of us, who are called to go forward with the Gospel – to preach it to every man, woman, and child.

WHAT Paul seem to have forgotten is that the Gospel is to be GIVEN FREELY. Without expectation of pay for receiving it.

And Paul was a Pharisee BEFORE he was called by Yeshua to preach the Gospel. It seems to me – based on what he wrote here – that he is falling back on those days when the Temple Leadership WAS PAID in temple tithes for their Temple Service.

It also seems to me – based on Scripture – that he is forgetting about FREEWILL OFFERINGS, and focusing instead on what he feels is his “due rights”.

Remember to read Scripture under the guidance of The Ruach Ha’Kodesh – remembering that men will be men, given to the emotions of the flesh.

When we remember THAT, we will understand that while Paul sounds whiney and contradictory … he is only a man (a saved man), given to the feelings of a man.

And we CAN LEARN from his example; whether that example be complimentary … or otherwise.

**********

1^st CORINTHIANS ~Chapter 9

“Am I not free? Am I not an Apostle? Have I not seen Yeshua Ha’Mashiach, with my own eyes? Are not you yourselves products of my work in Mashiach? Even if I am not an Apostle to some others, yet at any rate I am that to you, for you are the seal of my apostleship in Mashiach. And this is my defense in answer to my critics. Don’t we also have the right to eat and drink? May we not also take with us on our journeys a Christian sister, or a wife, like the other apostles and the brethren of Mashiach & Cephas? Are Barnabas and I the only ones who have no right to rest from working for a living?

What soldier ever goes to war at his own expense? Who plants a vineyard but does not eat any of the grapes? Who takes care of sheep without drinking their milk? I say this as man to man. But does not the Law also say the very same things? For in the Law of Moshe is it not written, ‘You shall not muzzle an ox, when he is treading out the corn.’ Is it for the oxen only that Elohim cares? Is it not especially for our sakes? Yes, indeed, it is written for us, for it surely is right that the ploughman as he ploughs, and the thresher as he threshes, should have some hope of share in the harvest.

We have been busy planting spiritual seed in you, Is it a hardship for you if we reap some of your material harvest? If others claim the right to share with you, don’t we have still greater right? You ask, why have we not then made use of that right? No, we should rather bear anything than set up an obstacle in the way of the Gospel of Mashiach.

Surely you must know that those who are in the Temple Service get their daily bread from the Temple; and the alter attendants get their share of the sacrificial offerings. In that way, too, Mashiach has ordered those who preach the Gospel shall live from the Gospel. As for me, I have made no such use of my rights. Nor am I writing this now to secure any such belated help. I would rather die than have anyone make this boast of mine void.

I am not boasting of the fact that I preach the Gospel. Necessity compels me to do that. It would mean, “Woe is me!” if I did not preach the Gospel. If I preach it willingly, I have my pay. But if I do it because I must, I am entrusted with a responsibility. In that case, what pay should I get? My pay is this, that in my preaching I offer the Good News about Mashiach free to all, without making use of my own right to a living by the Gospel.

In this way no one has any claim on me, yet I have made myself everyone’s debtor so as to win more souls. With the Jews, I became as a Jew that I might wins Jews for Mashiach. To those under The Law I became as one under The Law, though I, myself, was not under The Law, so as to gain those under The Law. And to those outside The Law I became as one outside The Law, too. This did not mean that I did not recognize the Law of Elohei; but it meant that I was under the law of Mashiach, so as to win those without any moral law. To the weak I became weak, in order to win the weak. In short, I became everything to everyone, in order that I might by some means save some. I am still doing this for the sake of the Gospel, so that I may have a share in its blessings together with the rest.

You know that of all the runners who compete in a footrace, only one gets the prize. Therefore, run to win. Every competing athlete exercises strict self-control. In such a race the winner receives a perishable wreath; but in the Christian race, the prize is an imperishable crown. So, I keep on running, but not aimlessly. And I fight, but not as one beating the air. I exercise my own body and I make it serve me, so that, after having preached to others, I myself should not be disqualified.”

**1 CORINTHIANS 8: https://jeastofeden.blogspot.com/2019/08/1st-corinthians-chapter-8.html