But who are you, O man, to answer back to God? (Response to Leighton Flowers Via James White)

Conclusion: Essentially, the Objector of Romans 9 was objecting to God's election and call of a particular people prior to their birth (the children of promise) unto salvation (Isaac, Jacob) to the exclusion of the rest of mankind for eternal destruction (Ishmael, Esau, Pharoah). 

This is a very brief response to Leighton Flowers who once again mishandles the text of scripture. 

We know the context regarding the question of the "Injustice" of God in conjunction with the Objector's apparent complaint "why have you made me like this" - is about God determining who will be saved and who will not - because Paul has already previously informed us that the Word of God has not failed regarding the salvation of Israel because it was NEVER God's intent to save every Jew or Israelite seeing that not all who are descended from Israel are of Israel who's praise is from God. 

The Apostle Paul also previously informed us that it is not the children of the flesh who are the "children of God" (a reference to salvation) but the "children of promise" (also a reference to salvation) who are truly counted as Abraham's offspring because they will have shared the same faith as Abraham. The question of "injustice" which Paul speaks of later is in regards to God's prerogative as to elect certain individuals before birth and deem them children of promise beforehand (such as Isaac and Jacob) resulting in salvation that is inevitable and certain. This is why Paul chastises the Objector's judgement of God as if God has somehow done something that is wrong or out of character by saying - will what is molded say to its molder, "why have you made me like this" IN RESPONSE TO the Objector's question - "why does God still find fault".

The reason why the Objector ask the question - "why does God still find fault" is because the Objector understood that no one can resist God's will in regards to His prerogative to have MERCY on whom He wills and HARDEN whom He wills. The Objector understood that God determined to save a people according to His own prerogative and not the will of man.

The apparent complaint of "why have you made me like this" from the Objector is in conjunction with the supposedly "injustice" of God AND the "injustice" of God is in conjunction with God beforehand determining before one's birth whom He will either have mercy upon or whom He will harden. God had mercy upon Jacob prior to His birth unto salvation (vessel of mercy) in contrast to God hardening Esau prior to his birth for destruction (vessel of wrath). 

The Objector is not objecting to the greater purposes of God in light of the Jews rebellion and them still being considered at fault as Leighton claim. The Objector is objecting to God's sovereign choice to save who he wills before anyone has done either good or bad and likewise not according to human will or effort on anyone's part.

By Aaron Fisher 

The Good or Bad Tree AND the Fruit it Only Can Produce; Spoken of by Christ.

Either make the tree good and its fruit good, or make the tree bad and its fruit bad, for the tree is known by its fruit. - Matthew 12:33

The sinful unbelieving unregenerate man - will not and cannot repent and believe the Gospel apart from a work of God beforehand. This work of God is a change in nature or in essence; regeneration. Regeneration precedes repentance and faith according to the scriptures! John the Baptist commanded those who were unbelieving and were in need of repentance to produce "fruit" worthy of repentance. However, in doing so, we find out by Christ Himself that a bad tree is unable to produce that which is good. Therefore, in order for a tree which represents the individual person to bear fruit worthy of repentance - the tree itself has to be a good tree as to do so. In fact, the tree itself has to be a good a tree "in nature" in order to produce good fruit as we will go on to see.

In Matthew chapter 3, as well as Luke chapter 3, you will find the introduction to John the Baptist, the forerunner to Christ. John, was the voice crying out in the wilderness, declaring "Make straight the pathway for our Lord". His message was repent, for the Kingdom of Heaven is at hand. In those days, Jerusalem and all Judea and all the region about the Jordan were going out to John, and they were baptized by him in the river Jordan, confessing their sins. However, when John saw many of the Pharisees and Sadducees coming to his baptism, he said to them, “You brood of vipers! Who warned you to flee from the wrath to come. He implored them to bear fruit in keeping with repentance. And do not presume to say to yourselves, ‘We have Abraham as our father,’ for I tell you, God is able from these stones to raise up children for Abraham. John,  then went on to say; even now the axe is laid to the root of the trees. Every tree therefore that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. His words, were a sign of judgement for those Jews who would not believe in Christ, there Messiah.

However, even though John had essentially commanded Israel's religious leaders to produce fruit in keeping with repentance; this command in and of itself will prove to be impossible to obey apart from a supernatural work of God. Both in Matthew and Luke, the Holy Spirit associated the tree that was about to be cut down and thrown into to fire with the Spiritual Leaders of Israel; the Pharisees and Sadducees. Why is that? Because the leaders of Israel were in need of repentance as well as the False Prophets In Matthew and also the Evil Person in Luke to which Christ spoke of. Both the Leaders of Israel and the Tree of which represents the leaders would inevitably go on to produce fruit; whether that fruit leads to good or bad deeds from Israel Leaders in contrast to the grapes or figs from the tree itself (luke 6:44-45, matthew 7:16) according to it's nature that should be produced. However, a bad tree is unable to produce grapes and figs.

Now, Christ, Himself tells us in Matthew Chapter 7: 17-18, concerning the False Prophets that:

Every good tree bears good fruit, but the bad tree bears bad fruit. A good tree cannot bear bad fruit, nor can a bad tree tree bear good fruit. - MATTHEW 7:17-18

So, just as John the Baptist, in Matthew 3:7-10 and Luke 3:7-9 implored Israel's Religious Leaders to produce fruit in keeping with repentance, we have Christ now declaring that it is impossible not only for False Prophets to produce good fruit but Israel Leaders as well - seeing that NO bad tree (which is representative of every unregenerate unbeliever as the 'old man' in nature) can produce good fruit, for they are UNABLE (DUNAMI) to do so because of the inherit NATURE of the Tree OR man, the Unbeliever to which the tree represents.

We see this same truth explained in John, Chapter 15; when Jesus distinguishes from True and False disciples. He states in John 15:6

If anyone does not abide in me he is thrown away like a branch and withers; and the branches are gathered, thrown into the fire, and burned. - JOHN 15:6

This is the the same language we see elsewhere in regards to what will happen to those who will NOT truly REPENT and BELIEVE (matthew 3:10, matthew 7:19, luke 3:9, john 15:6, revelation 20:15).

Continuing in John Chapter 15:4-5, Christ states:

Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit by itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in me. I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing. - JOHN 15:4-5

Jesus has specifically sated that the branches of tree cannot bear fruit by itself unless it abides in the vine, so likewise, neither can an unregenerate unbeliever unless he too is already abiding in the vine; which is Christ Jesus - proving to be a true disciple and also loved by the Son (john 15:8-9). No one can bear fruit unto God unless they are in union with God as already being born again.

The Lord has said, 

Either make the tree good and its fruit good, or make the tree bad and its fruit bad, for the tree is known by its fruit. - MATTHEW 12:33

Of course, no sinful unregenerate man has the ability to make himself good for he is born sinful, enslaved by his nature and can only do evil (matthew 12: 34-35, john 7:7,john 3:18, job 14:4, jeremiah 13:23, ephesians 2:3). However, it is God and Him alone who has the ability to make what is Inherently bad, good. God changes the nature of sinful man before Faith by having giving us a New Birth by the Word of Truth (james 1:18). God causes us to be born again (1 peter 1:3). It is the Spirit who gives spiritual life and makes an unbeliever alive (john 6:63). It is the Spirit who circumcises the heart of sinful man (romans 2:29). It is also only, the seed (word of God) that falls upon the good soil (new heart) that is able to produce good fruit (luke 8:15). Consequently, it is the Spirit of God that is the DIVIDING LINE between the "old and new man" - an unbeliever or a believer.

The "old man" or unbeliever is the BAD EVIL TREE that CANNOT for he is UNABLE to produce good fruit; deeds pleasing to God (acts 26:20, matthew 7:18, john 15:4) because of his nature being void of the Holy Spirit .Therefore, repentance and belief is an IMPOSSIBILITY for the unbeliever because of his nature alone. However,  the "new man" or believer is the GOOD RIGHTEOUS TREE that goes on to produce good fruit; deeds pleasing to God because his entire nature has been changed as he possesses the Holy Spirit within. Therefore, the possibility of repentance and belief is granted unto him.

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~ Further Argumentation - Those Things In Common Regarding The "Bad Tree"

(1) MATTHEW 3:7-10, LUKE 3:7-9 and MATTHEW 12:33-37 - speaks of Israel's Religious Leaders. 

(2) JOHN 15:1-11 - speaks of True and False Disciples of Christ 

(3) MATTHEW 7:15-20 - speaks of True Prophets and False Prophets. 

(4) LUKE 6:44-45 - speaks of the evil and good person

However, what all four of these different set of scriptural verses have in common, is that - those (Israel Religious Leaders, False Disciples, False Prophets, and Evil Persons) who are unable and don't produce any good fruit because of their nature are said to be likely "thrown into the fire and burned" if God doesn't supernaturally changes their nature by causing them to be born again. They are ALL unable to repent and believe, as representatives of the BAD TREE which CANT produce anything that's good.

In other words, as it relates to all four of these different set of verses - those who are said to be likely "thrown into the fire and burned" were definitely in need of repentance; but this was IMPOSSIBLE according to their nature - for scripture explicitly states, NO bad tree can produce good fruit; implying, the nature of the tree must be considered a "good tree" of a whole nother nature. Therefore, the bad tree cannot not produce good fruit; regarding, repentance and belief. The bad tree is UNABLE (matthew 7:18, john 15:4) to produce good fruit.

IN SUMMARY:

The fruit of a person that does not keep with repentance is from a Bad Tree; however, no Bad Tree produces Good Fruit. Each Tree, according to it's Nature is known by it's own Fruit. The Evil person produces Bad Fruit; therefore, the Bad Tree corresponds with the Evil person. The Evil person is representative of the Unbeliever; the Old Man in the flesh who can only produce Bad Fruit.

However, the fruit of a person in keeping with repentance is from a Good Tree, no Good Tree produces bad fruit relating to repentance and faith. Each Tree, according to it's Nature is known by it's own Fruit. The Good Person produces Good Fruit; therefore, the Good Tree corresponds with the Good Person. The Good Person is representative of the Believer; the New Man in the Spirit who produces Good Fruit.

The ONLY person that can bear good fruit that's pleasing to the Lord; even repentance and faith - are those who are already in union with Christ the "branch" having been born again so that the fruit that they do bear will prove that they are truly His disciples for a true disciple continues in the teachings of Christ and is in a mutual abiding. Without Christ, we can do nothing that's of any eternal value. The initial fruits of being born again are repentance and faith!

Old Man = Unbeliever = Bad Tree = Evil Person = Bad Fruit = No Repentance and Faith = Cut Down And Thrown Into The Fire = Destroyed

New Man = Believer = Good Tree = Good Person = Good Fruit = Repentance and Belief = Good Works = Reaping Eternal Life

By Aaron Fisher

The Objector of Romans 3 AND Romans 9 (both consider God as unjust regarding the salvation of man according to His own sovereign will and choice)

No, Sir. It's "more" helpful to conder the surrounding context of both verses in order to follow Paul's argument. The reason why the objector even proposes the question regarding (romans 3:7) is because he was not content nor satisfied with what Paul had previously said in regards to who exactly was a true Jew and who's praise is truly from God (romans 2:28-29) according to His will alone. The Objector was responding to what Paul has previously said in Chapter 2. The Objector understood that God was selectively and unilaterally circumcising individuals hearts of His choosing in order that they may obey Him (romans 2:5, 25). Paul was informing essentially the "circumcision party" that jewish ethnicity and physical circumcision has value "only" if you obey the Law (romans 2:25). However, they could not obey the Law or God because their hearts were uncircumcised, stubborn, and unrepentant (romans 2:5). They were in need of a changed heart. This is why the objector asked the question - "then what advantage has the Jew? Or what is the value of circumcision?" If God is essentially choosing according to His own prerogative as to who will be saved (romans 2:10) by selectively 'spiritually' circumcising certain individual hearts - then what advantage does the Jew have over the Gentiles? Paul explains -  the Jews were entrusted with the Word of God as His chosen people; a light to the nations and disseminators of God's truth. They have a special role in the Lord's earthly Kingdom as a Kingdom of Priest as His chosen ones regarding their call to this specific task unto which has not been revoked (romans 11:29). 

However, the objector doubles down on his dissatisfaction with Paul's response by responding - "But if through my lie God’s truth abounds to his glory, why am I still being condemned as a sinner? And why not do evil that good may come?" Mind you, the objector responded this way, just after Paul declared - "By no means! Let God be true though every one were a liar, as it is written, “That you may be justified in your words, and prevail when you are judged.” The Apostle Paul was informing the objector and all who think like him that when God is seemingly having to be judged by lying sinful man as if He has somehow become unrighteous or unjust in saving whom He wills according to His own sovereign choice; He will ultimately be vindicated or exonerated in His judgements according to His own divine standard of righteousness and not man's. The whole point of the Law is to point out sin and lead you to Christ for forgiveness of sin NOT to conclude "let us sin that God grace may abound" as to undermine the purpose & wisdom of God according to an eternal plan regarding the salvation of man that has been decreed before the ages. Those who think in such a way; according to Paul, their condemnation is just.

However, the same objection the objector has in Romans Chapter 3 (But if through my lie God’s truth abounds to his glory, why am I still being condemned as a sinner?) is essentially the same objection that the Objector has in Romans Chapter 9 (You will say to me then, “Why does he still find fault? For who can resist his will?)" AND for the same REASON. Both objectors undermined the faithfulness of God (romans 3:3-4 and romans 9:6) in spite of Him electing certain individuals to salvation for His own glory and both rejected Him as an unjust God in doing so (romans 3:5 and romans 9:14). Let's be clear! In both instances, according to the context - both Objectors were objecting to God's choice in the salvation of man apart from the will of man aka the "free will" of man. God circumcises the hearts of those (romans 2:28-29) whom He has beforehand elected; even prior to their birth (romans 9:11) as to demonstrate His rightful sovereign choice to do as He wills (romans 9:21-24). Im arguing that both Objectors in Romans Chapter 3 and Romans Chapter 9 are objecting to the very same thing - God's sovereign choice in the salvation of man!

By Aaron Fisher

Spiritual Blindness / Walking In Darkness / Ontologically / From Birth / Unable to See

I reached out to Leighton Flowers through Facebook Messenger March of 2021 and sent him this response regarding one of his videos to his assertion that sinful man is not born spiritually blind. To this day, he has not replied back. Unfortunately, he continues to speak falsehoods.

Scripturally, walking in DARKNESS corresponds with being BLIND (roman's 2:19, 1 john 2:11). Both walking in darkness and being blind constitutes as being UNABLE to SEE and understand spiritually the things of God. This truth stands in stark CONTRAST to those who walk in the LIGHT and have EYES TO SEE. Sinful man born at birth comes out of his mother's womb as to walk in darkness; therefore comes out the womb of his mother spiritually blind. If you say otherwise, then you will be falsely suggesting that sinful man at birth comes out of his mother's womb walking in Light; and in order for that to be true, you will also be falsely suggesting that sinful man at birth comes out of the womb as already born again, regenerated, and saved, for this is what it means as to "walk in the light". But this can not be case, for NO ONE comes out of the womb at birth already WALKING IN THE LIGHT or REGENERATED. 

In addition, sinful man from birth who inevitably walks in darkness does so because of his nature; that being of the 'old man' who is enslaved to sin and the sinful desires of the flesh IN CONTRAST to the 'new man' with a new nature who is enslaved to righteousness and has the power and ability to mortify the deeds of the flesh BY THE SPIRIT; a privilege the "old man" doesn't have because of his nature being void of the Spirit. It is the Holy Spirit IN MAN or NOT that is the dividing line between the two natures; that being IN CHRIST having the Spirit or IN ADAM without the Spirit. On one hand, the unbeliever being represented as the 'old man' can ONLY obey sin, unrighteousness, and the sinful desires of the flesh and therefore by default 'walks in darkness and is spiritually blind' BUT on the other hand, the believer by distinction has been freed from the power and enslavement of sin and the flesh desires and therefore can now freely obey the Spirit and righteousness; even though at times may yield themselves to the desires of the flesh whether it be momentarily or for a season. Nevertheless, the believer has been freed from the power of sin and have the power to obey as to 'walk in the light having eyes to see'.

Point being, the 'old man' can only obey sin and the 'new man' has been freed from only obeying sin but now righteousness as well. This fact, is due to the difference in the 'old and new mans' nature. The 'old man' can ONLY bear fruit unto death and the 'new man' bears fruit unto God. Nonetheless, both bears fruit - be it ACCORDING to their NATURE. The "nature" of any individual newly born is that of the "old man" or unbeliever; therefore they come out of their mother's womb as to "walk in darkness" AKA spiritually blind! 

Spiritually Blind from Birth! Leighton is once again wrong, according to the scriptures.

By Aaron Fisher

Responding to Jordan Hatfield, Phil Bair and Tyler Flower (2 Thessalonians 2:9-12) Free Will VS God's Decree!

The coming of the lawless one is by the activity of Satan with all power and false signs and wonders, and with all wicked deception for those who are perishing, because they refused to love the truth and so be saved. Therefore God sends them a strong delusion, so that they may believe what is false, in order that all may be condemned who did not believe the truth but had pleasure in unrighteousness. - 2 Thessalonians 2:9-12

But we ought always to give thanks to God for you, brothers beloved by the Lord, because God chose you from the beginning to be saved, through sanctification by the Spirit and belief in the truth. To this he called you through our gospel, so that you may obtain the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ. - 2 Thessalonians 2:13-14

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Jordan and his two guest (Phil Bair and Tyler Fowler) want to deny that it will be God himself in the latter days that is ultimately responsible for deceiving those who are perishing because they refuse to love the truth as to be saved. Although, I agree it will be the "man of lawlessness" actually doing the deceiving having been empowered by Satan - however, Satan could not empower anyone; let alone the "man of lawlessness" to deceive apart from the will of God. Therefore, the act of deceiving those by the "man of lawlessness" who take pleasure in wickedness is ultimately according to God's will; apart from which, neither Satan nor the "man of lawlessness" could act - not to mention the "day of the Lord" mentioned in Thessalonians and the coming "man of lawlessness" will also be according to God's plan foretold of old (isaiah 13:9-11 and daniel 11:36-39).

Jordan and guest would have us believe that neither the 'deception' by the Anti-Christ nor the 'strong delusion' sent by God was according to God's deliberate plan or done so by "fiat". However, scripture informs us otherwise - for they failed to mention that those who DID NOT take pleasure in wickedness NOR failed to love the truth as to be saved were either deceived or deluded as were the others. Why? Because they were BELOVED by the Lord as the text plainly states! What does it mean to be be "beloved" by the Lord or called the Lord's beloved? It means that this particular group of individuals have been ultimately eternally loved by the Lord or eternally favorably loved by the Lord unto salvation. This particular group of individuals salvation is inevitable; they have been foreordained to believe from before creation as God's elect - for it was "in love" that the Father predestined them before the foundation of the world as sons unto Himself (speaking of the body of Christ or the Church of God as a whole, ephesians 1:5 and 5:1). When God predestined them before creation; they were already considered His "beloved" children. This is why the Apostle Paul could say - "God chose you from the beginning to be saved, through sanctification by the Spirit AND belief in the truth". IT WAS BECAUSE, as Paul continues to say - "to this, God called you!" Meaning, God had called those who were beloved by Him before creation to salvation through satisfaction by the Spirit AND belief in the truth - so that you may obtain the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ (2 thessalonians 2:13-14). Notice, that God had both chose beforehand and called this particular group of sinners to salvation to the exclusion of those who continued to have pleasure in wickedness and refuse to love the truth. Scripture refers to these particular groups of sinners - those that are perishing; in contrast to those who are eternally loved by God unto salvation. Even though Jordan and guest would like to deny a decree; nonetheless a decree exist. God determined to save a particular people unto Himself while passing over the rest for salvation leaving them to fall prey to the demonic activities of Satan through the coming "lawlessness man". Just as God's elect was foreordained to believe to be rescued from the power of Satan, then likewise; those who eventually fall prey to Satan devices were also foreordained to remain in unbelief and perish. Jordan and company do look at other verses to justify their interpretation; however, they fail to keep the scriptures in their proper context.

They very much want to contribute the "free will" of man to those who "refuse to love the truth as to be saved". However, proper exegesis and hermeneutics is simply not on their side. The prophecy of the coming "lawlessness man" was foretold long ago BUT the "decree" was set in motion before creation regarding just who will ultimately be saved and who will not.

By Aaron Fisher 

Denying the Master that "bought" them (2 Peter 2:1)?

But false prophets also arose among the people, just as there will also be false teachers among you, who will secretly introduce destructive heresies, even (denying the Master who bought them), bringing swift destruction upon themselves / 2 PETER 2:1

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2 PETER 2:1 - is not in reference to a payment price in blood regarding Christ Jesus. However, the term "bought" is indeed in reference to "redeeming". It is a "purchase" regarding a special possession of a particular people by the Father - a "buying back" of what rightfully belongs to God from the house of physical slavery; by means of miraculous works and signs according to God's power; not blood.. Again, "bought" as in redemption from physical slavery; not spiritual slavery - as in, false Prophets were among God's people or Israel as a whole who ALL were "bought" or "redeemed" by the Father from physical slavery from the Egyptians. For those who insist on trying to make this particular verse relate to Christ blood 'bought' purchase of a people has unfortunately and gravely mishandled the text according to the overall context.

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Scriptural Proof according to an overall context to back up my argument that "bought" is in reference to a buying back of a particular people as in a treasured possession by God the Father whom He claimed as His with miraculous works, signs and wonders and an outstretched hand and not a blood sacrifice. 

1) Terror and dread will fall on them. By the power of your arm they will be as still as a stone-- until your people pass by, LORD, until the people you [BOUGHT] pass by. - Exodus 15:16

2) Now if you obey me fully and keep my covenant, then out of all nations you will be my [TREASURED POSSESSION]. Although the whole earth is mine - Exodus 19:5

3) Do you thus repay the LORD, O foolish people and unwise? is not he your [FATHER] that has [BOUGHT YOU]? has he not made you, and [ESTABLISHED YOU]? - Deuteronomy 32:6

4) That prophet or dreamer must be put to death for inciting rebellion against the LORD your God, who brought you out of Egypt and [REDEEMED] you from the land of slavery [MARKET PLACE, HOUSE OF SLAVERY]. That prophet or dreamer tried to turn you from the way the LORD your God commanded you to follow. You must purge the evil from among you - Deuteronomy 13:5

5) Remember the nation you [PURCHASED, BOUGHT] long ago, the people of your inheritance, whom you [REDEEMED] -- Mount Zion, where you dwelt. Now if you obey me fully and keep my covenant, then out of all nations you will be my [TREASURED POSSESSION]. Although the whole earth is mine - Psalm 74:2

6) "Therefore, say to the Israelites: 'I am the LORD, and I will bring you out from under the yoke of the Egyptians. [I WILL FREE YOU FROM BEING SLAVES TO THEM], and I will [REDEEM] you with an [OUTSTETCHED ARM AND WITH MIGHTY ACTS OF JUDGEMENT]. Exodus 6:6

7) But because the LORD loved you and kept the oath He swore to your fathers, He brought you out with a [MIGHTY HAND AND REDEEMED YOU FROM THE HOUSE OF SLAVERY], from the hand of Pharaoh king of Egypt. - Deuteronomy 7:8

8).Then the LORD brought us out of Egypt with a [MIGHTY HAND AND AN OUTSTETCHED ARM, WITH GREAT TERROR, SIGNS, AND WONDERS]. - Deuteronomy 26:8

9).And who is like Your people Israel--the one nation on earth whom God went out to [REDEEM AS A PEOPLE FOR HIMSELF], to make a name for Yourself through [GREAT AND AWESOME WONDERS] by driving out nations from before Your people, whom You [REDEEMED FROM EGYPT]? - 1 Chronicles 17:21

10) Has any god ever tried to take [REDEEM] for himself one nation out of another nation, [BY TESTINGS, BY SIGNS, AND WONDERS, BY WAR, BY A MIGHTY HAND AND AN OUTSTRETCHED ARM OR GREAT AND AWESOME DEEDS], like all the things the LORD your God did for you in Egypt before your very eyes? Deuteronomy 4:3 

11) Remember that you were slaves in Egypt and that the LORD your God brought [REDEEMED] you out of there with a [MIGHTY HAND AND AN OUTSTRETCHED ARM]. Therefore the LORD your God has commanded you to observe the Sabbath day.  - DEUTERONOMY 5:15

12) But the Lord, who brought you up out of Egypt with [MIGHTY POWER AND OUTSTRETCHED ARM], is the one you must worship. To him you shall bow down and to him offer sacrifices. 37You must always be careful to keep the decrees and regulations, the laws and commands he wrote for you. Do not worship other gods. 38Do not forget the covenant I have made with you, and do not worship other gods. 39Rather, worship the Lord your God; it is he who will deliver you from the hand of all your enemies.” - 2 KINGS 17:36-39

13) But now, this is what the LORD says-- he who created you, Jacob, he who formed you, Israel: "Do not fear, for I have [REDEEMED] you; I have [SUMMONED YIU BY NAME; YOU ARE MINE]. Isaiah 43:1  

14) For I am the LORD your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior; I give Egypt for your [RANSOM], Cush and Seba in your stead. - Isaiah 43:3

15) The wicked shall be a [RANSOM] for the righteous, and the transgressor for the upright - Proverbs 21:18  

16) Return, faithless Israel,

declares the LORD.

I will not look on you in anger,

for I am merciful,

declares the LORD;

I will not be angry forever.

13Only acknowledge your guilt,

that you rebelled against the LORD your God

and scattered your favors among foreigners under every green tree,

and that you have not obeyed my voice,

declares the LORD.

14Return, O faithless children,

declares the LORD;

for I am your [MASTER];

I will take you, one from a city and two from a family,

and I will bring you to Zion.

15“‘And I will give you shepherds after my own heart, who will feed you with knowledge and understanding. 16And when you have multiplied and been fruitful in the land, in those days, declares the LORD, they shall no more say, “The ark of the covenant of the LORD.” It shall not come to mind or be remembered or missed; it shall not be made again. 17At that time Jerusalem shall be called the throne of the LORD, and all nations shall gather to it, to the presence of the LORD in Jerusalem, and they shall no more stubbornly follow their own evil heart. 18In those days the house of Judah shall join the house of Israel, and together they shall come from the land of the north to the land that I gave your fathers for a heritage.

19“‘I said,

How I would set you among my sons,

and give you a pleasant land,

a heritage most beautiful of all nations.

And I thought you would call me, [MY FATHER],

and would not turn from following me.

20Surely, as a treacherous wife leaves her husband,

so have you been treacherous to me, O house of Israel,

declares the LORD - JEREMIAH 3:12-20

17) For I brought you up from the land of Egypt and [REDEEMED] you from the [HOUSE OF SLAVERY]. I sent Moses before you, as well as Aaron and Miriam. - Micah 6:4

18) He sent them a prophet, who told them, "This is what the LORD, the God of Israel, says: I brought you up out of Egypt, out of the [HOUSE OF SLAVERY]. - Judges 6:8

19) So Moses told the people, "Remember this day, the day you came out of Egypt, out of the [HOUSE OF SLAVERY]; for the LORD brought you out of it [BY THE STRENGTH OF HIS HAND]. And nothing leavened shall be eaten. - Exodus 13:3

By Aaron Fisher 

The Gift of Faith?

Everyone who believes that Jesus is the Christ has been born of God ~ 1 john 5:1

What is a gift? A gift is something that's freely given by the giver and not acquired by merit or entitlement and likewise without repayment. Biblical faith is a byproduct of a new heart according to God's grace and mercy. The "taking out of the stubborn heart of stone of a sinner and replacing it with a compliant heart of flesh" is a sole unilateral work of God - as in regeneration that leads to spiritual life. When God says, "I'll give you a new heart and a new Spirit and cause you to obey my statues" - He is strongly implying that obedience to His words of command can only be accomplished if a new heart has been granted by way of spiritual circumcision. When the command comes to "repent and believe" in the Good News of Jesus Christ; unless a new compliant heart of flesh has been granted prior to - the sinner will not be able to comply to the command of the Lord because he will still possess the old uncircumcised stubborn hostile heart of flesh. This is why, regeneration MUST precede faith. This is why, we say Biblical faith is a gift - for it is something that's freely given by God for those of whom He has particularly favored beforehand and as of result predestined before the foundation of the world to sonship by the 'means of faith' having been not given nor acquired by merit or entitled and likewise without repayment just the same - the very definition of a Gift!

By Aaron Fisher 

John 8 (God's Elect, the Children of Promise, and the Reprobate)

Can any of you prove me guilty of sin? If I am telling the truth, why don’t you believe me? Whoever belongs to God hears what God says. The reason you do not hear is that you do not belong to God.” - JOHN 8:46-47

At the onset, Jesus had acknowledged that these particular Jews were physical descendants of Abraham (john 8:37) but he denounced the idea that they were indeed spiritual descendants of Abraham according to faith in God (john 8:39-42) - as in the children of Promise; being those given to Him from the Father. Jesus understood that these particular Jews had been predestined to disobey the word of the Lord and to stumble over the stumbling stone as to perish; seeing that Christ Himself was that very stone - a rock of offense (isaiah 8:13-15, luke 20:17-18, matthew 21:42,1peter 2:6-8, and romans 9:32). This is why he asserted that the slave doesn't remain in the house forever; the son does (john 8:35). The slave or hired hand has no inheritance regarding the household of which he serves; the inheritance of the Father belongs to the natural born son. However, Christ was using this biblical fact to reveal to these Jews that they too were not considered to be sons of God as to have an inheritance because they were not given to Him as heirs according to the promise made to Abraham (genesis 17:7 and galatians 3:29). For it was not granted unto them to believe; this privilege is only reserved for those given to Christ; His sheep. These particular Jews in John 8 did not belong to God nor were among Christ sheep; if they were then they would have believed having been predestined as Children of Promise beforehand (genesis 17:7).

Mind you, Jesus denounced these Jews to be spiritual descendants of Abraham (which would have been demonstrated by their faith) PRIOR TO them actually having believed to indeed confirm the fact that the son of the slave woman (as not belonging to the Abrahamic Covenant) shall not share in the inheritance of the privileged son (child of promise) of the free woman (galatians 4:30) who indeed is of or truly belongs to the Abrahamic Covenant (Genesis 17:7). The son of the slave woman remains in spiritual bondage but the son of the free woman is set free from sin and his final destination is Jerusalem which is above (galatians 4:22-31). The Abrahamic Covenant promises salvation to all who belong to it; a particular group of people of whom God has chosen beforehand (genesis 17:7). God had promised beforehand to Abraham to be God to a particular people who would be forgiven and reconciled back to Him in right standing through His Son Jesus Christ. Therefore, salvation is inevitable for some and not others; for these particular group of people are namely; the Children of Promise who are to be saved. Not everyone is a child of promise; if so, then everyone would ultimately be saved. So, seeing that it is impossible for everyone to be considered a "child of promise" then it's likewise impossible for everyone  as in "all without exception" to ever come to saving faith. Furthermore, it is also impossible for anyone according to their "free will" to believe apart from already having been given to the Son prior to. Free will is not a factor in one's salvation; only the mercy and grace of God that was predetermined only toward the children of promise (romans 4:11-18 and hebrews 6:13-20). This is what is occuring in John 8. These particular Jews would not believe because they were not foreordained to believe. They were not of God's Elect. They were not the children of promise. They were in fact considered to be the reprobate of the Jews; those of whom God has passed over from birth for salvation (romans 9:11,13).

Jesus confirmed that it was impossible for these Jews to ever believe as to be saved; therefore their damnation was certain (romans 9:22). He acknowledged that they did not belong to God; therefore they were not to be counted as the spiritual descendants of Abraham who were promised to Him as heirs; the children of promise. For it is the privileged son who remains in God's house forever; not the child of the slave woman who was passed over as not belonging to the Abrahamic Covenant as to share in the inheritance. John 8 is a clear example as to prove; it is only those given to the Son beforehand that will believe and be saved - while excluding all others. No one can be saved apart from already belonging to the Abrahamic Covenant beforehand - proving that it is an impossibility for everyone as in all without exception to be saved; especially according to the so called "free will" of man. Those who will indeed perish - it is understood that they will have proven themselves to be reprobate.

By Aaron Fisher 

Gentiles nor the Church is "spiritual Israel".

For no one is a Jew who is merely one outwardly, nor is circumcision outward and physical. But a Jew is one inwardly, and circumcision is a matter of the heart, by the Spirit, not by the letter. His praise is not from man but from God. / ROMANS 2:28-29

Consider the reading and context of Romans chapter 1-3 first and foremost. Nonetheless, Romans chapter 2 Verses 1-11 is in reference to God showing no partiality - to the Jew first, then to the Gentile regarding those who not only practice such evil things (1:22-23) as deserving to die, but also give approval to others who likewise practice them. In that, everyone who judges another; have no excuse - for in passing judgement on another they only condemn themselves. And those who practice such evil deeds will not escape the judgement of God; storing up wrath against themselves on the day of God's wrath. In light of this fact, God will render to each one according to their works - to the Jew first then to the Gentile. 

The Immediate Context:

(1) Verses 12-13 is in regards to both groups; JEW AND GENTILE.

(2) Verse 14-16 is in regards to the GENTILES.

(3) Verse 17 is the transition from Gentile to JEW. From verse 17 to 25; Paul is addressing Jews - only to point out their hypocrisy in regards to the Law.

(4) Verses 26-27 Paul makes the transition from Jew back to Gentile only to contrast the uncircumcised Gentile who keeps the Law against the circumcised Jew who doesn't in light of their hypocrisy.

(5) Verses 28-29 - Paul is clarifying to the Jew ONLY that - the only ethnic Jew (not Gentile) who's praise is from God is a ethnic Jew who's heart has been spiritually circumcised by the Spirit. Paul is NOT saying that Gentiles are considered to be (spiritual) Jews nor Israel just because they too may be circumcised in heart as well. Paul has already made the claim that the name of God is blasphemed among the Gentiles because as a Jew they were considered hypocrites as to preach to others (the Gentiles) concerning the Law and their disobedience to it but in fact they were dishonoring God. From verses 17-29 Paul was rebuking the Jews for the hypocrisy in regards to the Law and their boast in physical circumcision. In fact, Paul continues to address the Jews (not Gentiles) in Chapter 3 going forth. The only reason Paul introduced the Gentiles in verses 14-27 is to rebuke the Jews for their confidence in the Law and circumcision of flesh only; as to be made right with God. The Gentiles are NOT "spiritual" Israel. Nor is the Church considered  to be "spiritual Israel". Such an interpretation is being read into the text. 

However, are elect Gentiles circumcised in heart along with elect Jews? Absolutely! But a distinction still remains between the two; and this continued distinction is seen throughout the Book of Romans. Ethnic Jews are the natural branches and Gentiles are wild branches that have been grafted into Israel's olive tree. The Church consist of both Jew and Gentile - "true or spiritual" Israel are the "natural branches" of the Olive Tree of which the Gentiles are not (romans 11:23-29). The Gentiles could never be considered Israel for they are not the natural branches! As regards to election; the true "spiritual Israel" is beloved by God for the sake of the promise made to their forefathers. However, 'mere' ethnic Israel in flesh only are considered to be the Gentiles enemies for the Gospel sake (romans 11:29). Therefore, the Gentiles cannot ever be addressed as "spiritual Israel" as to usurp only ethnic Israel's rightful status as believers in Yeshua who's praise is from God. This fact has clearly been plainly written.

Lest you be wise in your own sight, I do not want you to be unaware of this mystery, brothers: a partial hardening has come upon Israel, until the fullness of the Gentiles has come in - ROMANS 11:25

By Aaron Fisher 

Christ "tasted death" for everyone? What does the Scriptures actually say?

One of the most popular verse of Scripture used by those attempting to justify an unlimited atonement is Hebrews 2:9

But we see him [Christ] who for a little while was made lower than the angels, namely Jesus, crowned with glory and honor because of the suffering of death, so that by the grace of God he might taste death for everyone.

But those who attempt to use this verse to justify such a position has gravely misinterpreted the writers thoughts and intentions pertaining to this particular verse by destroying the context to which it is being applied. There needs to be initially a careful study of the entire book of Hebrews in order for one to rightly divide it's worded contents and author's intentions as to what he is trying to specifically convey.

In my study, why "tasting death" for everyone is NOT a reference to "all people" without exception in Hebrews 2:9 but rather "all people" for whom Jesus suffered death for (Hebrews 2:9-13); even unto the Cross. Contextually, according to the Book of Hebrews; this would be - (1) many sons *2:10* (2) all those given to the son from the Father *2:13* (3) Christ brothers *2:12* (4) offspring of Abraham *2:16* (5) heirs of promise *6:17* (6) eternal source of Salvation for all those who obey Him *5:9* (7) those who draw near to God *7:25* (8) those who are called *9:15* (9) those whom Jesus made propitiation for their sins *2:17* (10) Christ sheep *13:20* and (11) those whom God would forgive according to the promise of the New Covenant *8:6-13*. Christ "tasted death" for a specific group of people!

If Jesus "tasted death" for everyone without exception then He is everyone's Interceding High Priest for Christ obedience, even unto His death on the Cross, exalted him to this position of highest honor and crowned with glory - that being of an Eternal High Priest according to Hebrews 2:9-18.

And if Christ "tasted death" for everyone then He is presumably also their Eternal High Priest - and as a result "everyone" would be saved for it was through His suffering, that Christ would not only be made the founder of their Salvation (those whom He tasted death for) but as an Eternal High Priest, their Salvation would be unmistakably effectual and inevitable; because, according to Scripture, Christ as High Priest is a High Priest of the NEW COVENANT(after the order of Melchizedek). The New Covenant is an Unconditional Covenant. This Covenant was unconditional in the sense that it was SOLEY based upon what God would UNILATERALLY do and fulfill or bring to pass and NOT according to ANYTHING that man would do or contribute to. The New Covenant and the fulfilment of it is NOT based upon man's performance and/or obedience! God PROMISED and took it upon Himself to provide a means for sinful man to be made right with God. What man COULD NOT do for himself - in particular, obey what God would command him to do; God would soley do, by replacing the 'old stubborn heart of stone' with a 'new compliant heart of flesh' ACCORDING TO the PROMISE of the New Covenant! The New Covenant also "unconditionally" provided for "forgiveness of sins."  This is why when Hebrews speaks of Christ atonement/propitiation (Hebrews 2:17, 8:10-12, 10:15-17), it is a REMOVAL of GOD'S WRATH UNCONDITIONALLY in spite of what sinful man does or to be more specific - in spite of what sins God's Elect will commit. God ultimately passes over the sins of His Chosen Ones! God NEVER intends to bestow His wrath of judgement upon those whom He has foreloved and promised Eternal Life to before creation. The removal of God's wrath is the means for forgiveness of sins provided for by the promise of the New Covenant.

So, if Jesus "tasted death" on the Cross for everyone then everyone would be saved for Jesus death exalted him to the position of an Eternal High Priest and as High Priest; His intercessory work is by necessity EFFECTUAL seeing that Christ is both Shepherd of His Sheep AND High Priest of the very SAME sheep - meaning that, ALL who Christ intercedes for will INEVITABLY come to a saving faith (John 17, Hebrews 2:10-12 & 17, 5:1-10, 9:11-15)!

However, the Scriptures DO NOT speak of a potential"universal atonement" based upon man's "free will". On the contrary, Christ "tasted death" for all those whom He would suffer death for. He suffered for those whom He would ultimately intercede for as High Priest. And as an Eternal High Priest, Christ intercessory work is EFFECTUAL for all those given to Him from the Father. All those given to Christ from the Father, are those for whom propitiation is made. Heirs according to promise are the Children of Promise, and the Children of Promise are the Elect/Sheep; a particular called out group of people chosen before the creation of the world. Christ, according to the New Covenant, is the Shepherd of the Sheep but ALSO the Eternal High Priest of the SAME New Covenant EFFECTUALLY bringing many "sons and brothers" to glory of those that the Father has given Him from eternity past!

Conclusion: In short, Christ tasted death for everyone whom He suffered death for; and those whom He suffered death for (Hebrews 2:14,16,17, 9:15) are (1) The Father's children given to Christ, (2) offspring of Abraham (3) Christ brethren, who are also the spiritual offspring of Abraham, (4) and those CALLED to be Heirs of Promise.

HEBREWS 2:9-13 - CONTEXT MATTERS!

But we see him who for a little while was made lower than the angels, namely Jesus, crowned with glory and honor because of the SUFFERING OF DEATH, so that by the grace of God he might TASTE DEATH FOR EVERYONE.

For it was fitting that he, for whom and by whom all things exist, in BRINGING MANY SONS TO GLORY, should make the FOUNDER OF THEIR SALVATION PERFECT THROUGH SUFFERING.For he who sanctifies and those who are sanctified all have one source. That is why he is NOT ASHAMED TO CALL THEM BROTHERS, saying,

“I will TELL OF YOUR NAME TO MY BROTHERS;

in the midst of the congregation I will sing your praise.”

And again, “I will put my trust in him.”

And again, “Behold, I and the CHILDREN GOD HAS GIVEN ME.”

------------------------------------------------

1) The SUFFERING unto DEATH in verse 9 is in connection to Christ tasting death for EVERYONE

2) The same SUFFERING in verse 10 is in connection to Christ and His sufferings attributed to the MANY SONS on their behalf and Him being the founder of their (MANY SONS) salvation.

3) Christ is NOT ASHAMED to call them (MANY SONS) BROTHERS

4) Christ BROTHERS and the Father's MANY SONS are one and the same people; therefore, those whom Christ is not ashamed of and those whom He SUFFERED DEATH for are also the SAME ONES He TASTED DEATH for (verse 9 & 10).

5) Christ TASTED DEATH for the Father's MANY SONS and His BROTHERS!

6) Christ BROTHERS are those GIVEN TO HIM from the FATHER (verse 13)

7) Christ COULD NOT have possibly tasted death for EVERYONE without exception for He suffered death ONLY for the MANY SONS who are Christ BROTHERS (verse 10). And if Christ suffered death only for the MANY SONS who are His BROTHERS then He also TASTED DEATH - ONLY for the MANY SONS and His BROTHER'S. If Christ BROTHERS were given to Him from the Father; then How could Christ taste death for everyone and at the same time suffer death ONLY for His BROTHERS; who were given to Him by the Father? Unless you're prepared to argue that everyone without exception is given to Christ from the Father then you have no sound exegetical argument and have definitely misinterpreted the text. Christ cannot suffer death for an exclusive group of people and at the same time taste death inclusively for everyone; for Christ tasting of death and His suffering of death are synonymous - He tasted death by way of His suffering of death.

8) Christ DID NOT taste death for everyone without exception but ONLY for those given to Him from the Father

IGNORE CONTEXT and MISUNDERSTAND THE TEXT!

In short, the writer of Hebrews qualifies the "everyone" whom Christ tasted death for - and it is the Children of God the Father given to the Son; NOT "everyone" without exception! Christ tasted death for everyone of all that was given to Him by the Father! Let's us continually strive to keep Scripture in it's proper context to avoid falling into doctrinal error by rightfully dividing the Word of God!

By Aaron Fisher..

Does "foreknowledge" necessitate Determinism?

Leighton Flowers denies the scriptural argument that the reason why God knows what will occur is because He has predetermined what will occur or that God's foreknowledge of future events is based upon an eternal decree. If the overall purpose of God is fulfilled by the evil intensions of the creature - then how is the creature "free" as to do other than what God has already planned involving the creature as to fulfill His purpose since God's plan precedes His purposes and is the very reason His purposes are fulfilled? How can the creature escape God's decree or predetermined plan that is essential in fulfilling His "good purposes" that Leighton speaks of?

However Sir, in spite of your assertion; the obvious question still remains based upon your logic - if, "God is capable of knowing and using free creatures with sinful intentions to accomplish His good purposes without decreeing their evil intentions" as you claim - then does the "free creature" still have the freedom to do other than what God already knows beforehand what he will do seeing that His "good purposes" involving man derive from a predetermined plan which in return is non-contradictory to what He already knows beforehand? If the entirety of God's plan is determined before creation then everything that occurs proceeding or because of his plan has to be predetermined in order that His purposes according to His plan might be fulfilled.

I'm arguing, If God knew beforehand that the "free will" creature would do X, then what God already knew could never contradict OR not be contingent upon His predetermined plan for the creature to do X - because creature X would be fulfilling the purpose of God in doing X based upon God's eternal plan that had been already established. Therefore what God knew creature X would do beforehand as to fulfill His "good purpose" was based upon an already established predetermined plan. God knows what will occur because He has already predetermined what will occur unless those such as yourself who oppose such an view is prepared to argue that what God knows beforehand as it relates to His purposes being fulfilled somehow is not contingent upon His eternal plan which precedes those very same purposes being fulfilled.

In other words, those who oppose my conclusion must be prepared to argue that what God knows beforehand as it relates to His purposes being fulfilled (that the creature would do X) is not contingent upon His predetermined plan (that the creature would do X) that was before creation in order that His "good purpose" (involving the creature to do X) might be fulfilled - because in doing so they would have illogically and unscripturally established that what God knows beforehand is not contingent upon Him predetermining every occurrence in order to fulfill His "good purposes" BUT rather that somehow God's "good purposes" could come to pass soley based upon the will of the creature and what He already knew APART FROM and not based upon the very thing (His overall predetermined plan) that His purposes essentially derive from.

God plans; and His purposes come to fruition according to His plan - this is my argument. Therefore, His purposes involving man that come to pass are contingent upon what He has already established. It cannot be that the "good purposes" of God to which Leighton speaks of involving man can come to pass apart from the very plan of which His purposes procede and derive from; such a notion would be unbiblical, let alone illogical - for if man was "free" as to have the ability to always do other than what God foreknew what he would do then God's omniscience would be undermined and come into question. However, since man does not possess such an ability - then man can never do other than what God already knew what He would do. Therefore, since man can never do other than what God already knew - man's actions are based upon God's knowledge beforehand which is contingent upon God's decree or predetermined plan. Either way, man cannot escape from the "good purposes" of God in spite of his good or evil intension due to God's foreknowledge which is contingent upon His eternal decree. 

By Aaron Fisher 

Does God Decree Rape? The Rape of Tamar, King David's Daughter (2 Samuel 13).

First, what is the Decree of God? The decree of God - Is not so much as a command but rather a previous determination of God before the Creation of the world of what would come to pass as of certainty resulting from his divine council and will relating to His eternal purposes that will glorify Himself in all things.

Secondly, not to speak lightly of Tamar's rape but the rape was essentially a means to an end - which is the death of Amnon, David's son. You recall, God told David by the Prophet Nathan that the "sword would not depart from his household" as punishment/judgement for David's previous sins. David had slept with another man's wife (Basheba) and killed her husband. The Death of Amnon was because of what God predetermined would come to pass as a result; seeing that Ammon's death was pronounced before the rape as in the "sword should not depart from David's household". The rape of Tamar (as a means to an ultimate end) moved her brother Absalom to murder her other brother Amnon (2 Samuel 13:32) who had sexually violated her. Therefore, the rape of Tamar was decreed (determined beforehand) by God. Her rape DID NOT take God by surprise; it was according to His plan JUST AS the death of Ammon was! Tamar's rape was the means that God had determined to use in order to bring about the death of her brother Ammon for David's sin by the hands of Absalom her other brother.

By Aaron Fisher

I [the Lord] Neither Commanded Nor Did it Enter My Mind (Jeremiah 19:1-5, 32:34-35). What Does the Scriptures Actually Say regarding Judah's CHILD SACRIFICE?

There are some well meaning Christians who are totally against divine determinism and use Scripture passages such as (Jeremiah 19:1-5, 32:34-35) to assert that God does not decree all things, however they sadly misinterpret these text and seemingly ignore the further context of the subject at hand - which is child sacrifice. A careful study will show that God did actually decree/determine for Israel/Judah to eat the flesh of their sons and daughters as punishment for their disobedience; God had given them over to their sinful desires. Some attempt to ascribe the word DECREE among these two passages in question to argue their point that there is no such teaching involving divine determinism that is taught in scripture - but a more accurate interpretation of the Hebrew word [dabar 1696] would preferably be SPEAK IT or MENTION IT; while also considering and not neglecting the ENTIRE context regarding the subject of child sacrifice throughout the rest of the Old Testament scriptures. For the meaning of particular words are always derived by it's context of which it is being used. For example, a more accurate rendering of this particular verse of scripture in question should read as such -  "I did not command it or mention it, nor either did it enter my mind".

The Scripture declares God did not COMMAND the children of Israel nor the sons of Judah NOR did it ENTER GOD'S MIND as a GOOD and HOLY THING of SPIRITUAL SERVICE for His people to offer sacrifices of their children to Himself and especially other god's; this desire was never expressed by God - in fact, it was rightfully FORBIDDEN (Leviticus 18:21, Leviticus 20:1-5, Deuteronomy 12:31,  Deuteronomy 18:9-14, Jeremiah 32:34-35) !!!

Decidedly, God had given his people over to the Customs/Laws of Pagan nations such as (child sacrifice) as punishment for Israel and Judah's PREVIOUS SINS (disobedience as to not keeping the Sabbath holy and having set their eyes on their father's idols) in order that they may ultimately come to the realization that He is indeed a Holy and Just God (Leviticus 26:27-33, Ezekiiel 20:18-26, Deuteronomy 28:53, Jeremiah 19:9, Ezekiel 5:10). God DID NOT EVER "decree" such a thing - such as [child sacrifice] AS GOOD to cause Judah to sin BUT he did give the children of Israel and the sons of Judah over to sinful desires for previous sins to HORRIFY and DEVASTATE them in order that they may know he is the true and living God apart from the other false gods the other nations had imagined in their hearts and worshipped. So in this regard, God DID DECREE the sacrifice of Israel's children as PUNISHMENT for adhering to the sinful customs of the other nations (Ezekiel 20:26; 42-44).

Furthermore, however, I would also argue that God DID ultimately decree and/or predetermine the judicial punishment for Israel and Judah beforehand as it relates to child sacrifice as part of his OVERALL ULTIMATE PLAN for the nation (jeremiah 30 and 31); not only to tear down and destroy because of their sin and disobedience to the Mosaic Covenant (Law of Moses) that was made with them but to also build and plant regarding a future restoration of Israel according to the New Covenant - Deuteronomy 30:1-10, Ezekiel 36:22-38, Hebrews 8:8-12]. In other words, child sacrifice by the people of God was the overall plan of God (Determinism) to bring to pass a specific end goal in order that the remnant of Israel in the latter days may understand the workings of God throughout Israel's history and bring them to faith in the One true God through His Son that they and their ancestors had rejected. This is why the scriptures testify that in the latter days Israel will then understand all that God had done (jeremiah 23:20 and jeremiah 30:24).

SCRIPTURE VERSES AND CONCLUSION TO PROVE MY ARGUMENT.

1) God warned Israel/Judah beforehand about potentially giving their children sacrificially to Molech and sharing in the abominations of the other nations

(A) Any one of the people of Israel or of the strangers who sojourn in Israel who gives any of his children to Molech shall surely be put to death. The people of the land shall stone him with stones. 3I myself will set my face against that man and will cut him off from among his people, because he has given one of his children to Molech, to make my sanctuary unclean and to profane my holy name. 4And if the people of the land do at all close their eyes to that man when he gives one of his children to Molech, and do not put him to death, 5then I will set my face against that man and against his clan and will cut them off from among their people, him and all who follow him in whoring after Molech. - Leviticus 20:1-5

(B) You shall not worship the LORD your God in that way, for every abominable thing that the LORD hates they have done for their gods, for they even burn their sons and their daughters in the fire to their gods. - Deuteronomy 12:31

(C) When you come into the land that the LORD your God is giving you, you shall not learn to follow the abominable practices of those nations. There shall not be found among you anyone who burns his son or his daughter as an offering, anyone who practices divination or tells fortunes or interprets omens, or a sorcerer or a charmer or a medium or a necromancer or one who inquires of the dead, for whoever does these things is an abomination to the LORD. And because of these abominations the LORD your God is driving them out before you. You shall be blameless before the LORD your God, for these nations, which you are about to dispossess, listen to fortune-tellers and to diviners. But as for you, the LORD your God has not allowed you to do this. - Deuteronomy 18:9-14

(D) You shall not give any of your offspring to offer them to Molech, nor shall you profane the name of your God; I am the LORD. - Leviticus 18:21

(E) They set up their abominations in the house that is called by my name, to defile it. They built the high places of Baal in the Valley of the Son of Hinnom, to offer up their sons and daughters to Molech, though I did not command them, nor did it enter into my mind, that they should do this abomination, to cause Judah to sin. - Jeremiah 32:34-35

(2) As discipline, God determined to punish Israel and give them over to their sinful desires for not obeying His rules or keeping the Sabbath Holy. God gave them over to the laws and customs [child sacrifice] of the other nations and deemed it so that they shall eat the flesh of their own sons and daughters.

(A) But if in spite of this you will not listen to me, but walk contrary to me, then I will walk contrary to you in fury, and I myself will [DISCIPLINE YOU] sevenfold for your sins. You shall eat the flesh of your sons, and you shall eat the flesh of your daughters. And I will destroy your high places and cut down your incense altars and cast your dead bodies upon the dead bodies of your idols, and my soul will abhor you. And I will lay your cities waste and will make your sanctuaries desolate, and I will not smell your pleasing aromas. And I myself will devastate the land, so that your enemies who settle in it shall be appalled at it. And I will scatter you among the nations, and I will unsheathe the sword after you, and your land shall be a desolation, and your cities shall be a waste. - Leviticus 26:27-33

(B) And I said to their children in the wilderness, ‘Do not walk in the statutes of your fathers, nor keep their rules, nor defile yourselves with their idols. I am the LORD your God; walk in my statutes, and be careful to obey my rules, and keep my Sabbaths holy that they may be a sign between me and you, that you may know that I am the LORD your God.’ But the children rebelled against me. They did not walk in my statutes and were not careful to obey my rules, by which, if a person does them, he shall live; they profaned my Sabbaths.

“Then I said I would pour out my wrath upon them and spend my anger against them in the wilderness. But I withheld my hand and acted for the sake of my name, that it should not be profaned in the sight of the nations, in whose sight I had brought them out. Moreover, I swore to them in the wilderness that I would scatter them among the nations and disperse them through the countries, because they had not obeyed my rules, but had rejected my statutes and profaned my Sabbaths, and their eyes were set on their fathers’ idols. Moreover, I gave them [over to] statutes [of the heathen nations] that were not good and rules by which they could not have life, and I defiled them through their very gifts in their offering up all their firstborn, that I might devastate them. I did it that they might know that I am the LORD. - Ezekiel 20:18-26

(C) During the siege and hardship that your enemy will impose on you, you will eat the fruit of your womb, the flesh of the sons and daughters whom the LORD your God has given you. - Deuteronomy 28:53

(D) I [the Lord] will [make them] eat the flesh of their sons and daughters, and they will eat one another's flesh in the siege and distress inflicted on them by their enemies who seek their lives. - Jeremiah 19:9

(E) As a result, fathers among you will eat their sons, and sons will eat their fathers. I will [execute judgments against you] and scatter all your remnant to every wind. - Ezekiel 5:10

(3) God gave Israel/Judah over to their sinful hearts because of disobedience in order that He might horrify them with the fear of God.

(A) because they had not obeyed my rules, but had rejected my statutes and profaned my Sabbaths, and their eyes were set on their fathers’ idols. Moreover, I gave them statutes that were not good and rules by which they could not have life, and I defiled them through their very gifts in their offering up all their firstborn, that I might [devastate them]. I did it that they might know that I am the LORD. Ezekiel 20:24-26

(B) And you shall know that I am the LORD, when I bring you into the land of Israel, the country that I swore to give to your fathers. And there you shall remember your ways and all your deeds with which you have defiled yourselves, and you shall loathe yourselves for all the evils that you have committed. And you shall know that I am the LORD, when I deal with you for my name’s sake, not according to your evil ways, nor according to your corrupt deeds, O house of Israel, declares the Lord GOD. - Ezekiel 20:42-44

(4) The overall plan of God for Israel was to eventually fall into grave sin; even apostasy - only to restore them in the latter days; so that they may come to know the true living God by way of all His attributes being revealed. God used Israel's sinful disobedience as a means to this end for His glory.

(A) For I know that after my death ye will utterly corrupt yourselves, and turn aside from the way which I have commanded you; and evil will befall you in the latter days; because ye will do evil in the sight of the LORD, to provoke him to anger through the work of your hands - DEUTERONOMY 29:31:29-30

(B) But to this day the LORD has not given you a heart to understand or eyes to see or ears to hear - DEUTERONOMY 29:4

(C) The anger of the LORD will not turn back until he fully accomplishes the purposes of his heart. In days to come you will understand it clearly - JEREMIAH 23:20

(D) The fierce anger of the LORD will not turn back until he fully accomplishes the purposes of his heart. In days to come you will understand this - JEREMIAH 30:24

(E) When you are in tribulation, and all these things come upon you in the latter days, you will return to the LORD your God and obey his voice. For the LORD your God is a merciful God. He will not leave you or destroy you or forget the covenant with your fathers that he swore to them - DEUTERONOMY 4:30-31

(F) “Behold, the days are coming, declares the LORD, when I will sow the house of Israel and the house of Judah with the seed of man and the seed of beast. And it shall come to pass that as I have watched over them to pluck up and break down, to overthrow, destroy, and bring harm, so I will watch over them to build and to plant, declares the LORD. - Jeremiah 31:27-28

(G) ......... “Behold, the days are coming, declares the Lord, when I will establish a new covenant with the house of Israel and with the house of Judah, not like the covenant that I made with their fathers on the day when I took them by the hand to bring them out of the land of Egypt.

For they did not continue in my covenant, and so I showed no concern for them, declares the Lord. For this is the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel after those days, declares the Lord:

I will put my laws into their minds, and write them on their hearts, and I will be their God, and they shall be my people. And they shall not teach, each one his neighbor and each one his brother, saying, ‘Know the Lord,’ for they shall all know me, from the least of them to the greatest.
For I will be merciful toward their iniquities, and I will remember their sins no more.” - Hebrews 8:8-12

(H) I will no longer hide my face from them [Israel], for I will pour out my Spirit on the people of Israel, declares the Sovereign LORD. - EZEKIEL 39:29

(I) And I will pour out on the house of David and the inhabitants of Jerusalem a spirit of grace and supplication. They will look on me, the one they have pierced, and they will mourn for him as one mourns for an only child, and grieve bitterly for him as one grieves for a firstborn son - ZECHARIAH 12:10

(J) Then I will gather [the remnant] of my flock out of all the countries where I have driven them, and I will bring them back to their fold, and they shall be fruitful and multiply. I will set shepherds over them who will care for them, and they shall fear no more, nor be dismayed, neither shall any be missing, declares the LORD. “Behold, the days are coming, declares the LORD, when I will raise up for David a righteous Branch [JESUS CHRIST], and he shall reign as king and deal wisely, and shall execute justice and righteousness in the land. In his days Judah will be saved, and Israel will dwell securely. And this is the name by which he will be called: ‘The LORD is our righteousness.’ “Therefore, behold, the days are coming, declares the LORD, when they shall no longer say, ‘As the LORD lives who brought up the people of Israel out of the land of Egypt,’ but ‘As the LORD lives who brought up and led the offspring of the house of Israel out of the north country and out of all the countries where he had driven them.’ Then they shall dwell in their own land - JEREMIAH 23:3-8

(K) Thus saith the Lord: As if a grain be found in a cluster, and it be said: Destroy it not, because it is a blessing: so will I do for the sake of my servants, that I may not destroy the whole. And I will bring forth a seed [remnant] out of Jacob, and out of Juda a [possessor of my mountains]: and [my elect] shall inherit it, and my servants shall dwell there - ISAIAH 65:8-9

CONCLUSION:

God did NOT decree that His people would participate in Child Sacrifice as something good regarding spiritual service as to honor Him; in fact, He had forbid such sinful practices beforehand. However, God did ultimately decree beforehand that the punishment for His people sins would be to give them over to depraved mind as to offer their children for sacrifice because they did not keep the Sabbath holy and their idolatry as to worship the false gods of the other nations; seeing that God gave His people fair warning a head of time. God's "decree" was for them to disobey what he had forewarned them about to bring about His plan and a greater purpose although His revealed will was clear to which he warned them beforehand as to not adopt the sinful ways of the Gentile nations. The ultimate end of God's decree as to whether obey or disobey is for His glory!

By Aaron Fisher

UNION WITH CHRIST.

Union with Christ aka "In Christ" -  Is based upon an unbreakable "possession" by the Father of a particular people that has been given to the Son from eternity past (ephesians 1:4) as to glorify Him. It is a union or possession unbreakable due to the fact that the Father has eternally and favorably loved a people as His own (ephesians 1:4-5) before time to the same degree as He has eternally loved His very own Son (john 17:22-23). God's ownership of a people before creation as to set them apart unto Himself for salvation; foreordaining them for redemption and the forgiveness of sins having been created in Christ Jesus and likewise foreordained unto good works is the very result of such an eternal union to which I speak of. Mind you, those who are in union with Christ as belonging to Him are His due to the Father's eternal love and are being kept by God's power and those kept are continuously dependent upon His love, faithfulness and power to remain in union as His.

In addition, God's elect have always been united or in union with Christ; for our union is also based upon belonging to Christ before the foundation of the world in an unbreakable relationship having been given to Him from the Father. There never was a "time" when we did not belong to Christ. Therefore, there never was a 'time' when we were not ultimately in union with Christ. However, as relating to 'time' - we are only momentarily separated from Christ as in a state of unbelief involving the plan of God as to be ultimately saved but this momentary separation does not mean we cease to belong to Him; as in union with Him. We still remain as Christ sheep regarding His relationship with and ownership of us; even in a state of unbelief OR even before our very own physical existence - as in, before creation.

By Aaron Fisher 

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Blessed "in Christ" before creation with every "spiritual blessing" (ephes 1:3-5).

God blessed us "in Christ" with every spiritual blessing "before the foundation of the world" just as or in the sane manner that He chose us to be holy and blameless before Him which also was "before the foundation of the world". Essentially, God's blessings and His choosing of us were both "in Christ" before creation (vs 3-4). The blessing spoken of in verse 3 are simply for those whom God likewise chose in Christ before the foundation of the world.

(A) Blessed us (vs 3)

(B) In Christ (vs 3)

(C) with every spiritual blessing (vs 3)

(D) Just as or in the same manner to which God chose us in Him to be holy and blameless - before the foundation of the world (vs 4) 

THIS IS WHY:

The Apostle Paul goes on to say; that those whom God both blessed "in Christ" AND chose "in Christ" before the foundation of the world were likewise predestined before the foundation of the world to sonship AS TO receive these spiritual blessings upon having believed seeing that God initially had already blessed us by decree with such blessings "in Christ" before creation - indeed, having blessed us "in the Beloved".

(A) In love He predestined us (vs 5)

(B) According to the purpose of His will & to the praise of His glorious grace (vs 6)

(C) Which He has blessed us "in the beloved" before the foundation of the world (vs 6)

God blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the same manner that He chose us - both having been before the foundation of the world. Before creation is in regards to God's decree. However, God likewise predestined us for adoption to sons as to receive these blessings upon believing; having been already ours before creation to receive. This is why Paul goes on to state that we have redemption through Christ blood and the forgiveness of trespasses because these particular blessings are according to the "riches of His grace" which He "lavished" upon us. God's "lavishing of the richest of His grace" having been before creation is in relation to our redemption and forgiveness of sins "in time" or after creation once having believed.

By Aaron Fisher

What Does "In Christ" Scripturally Means?

In short - In Christ, is essentially union with Christ based upon the giving of a particular people to the Son; whom the Father both foreknew and foreloved before time or before creation. The term "In Christ", is not limited to having believed relating to time or the temporal but rather a sense of belonging to or a possession of a people; who in return has been set apart for salvation to the praise and glory of God from eternity past.

In addition, when scripture speaks of sheep belonging to Christ even while they are in a state of unbelief (john 6:39-40, john 10:16, and 1 peter 2:25) they nonetheless are still in union with Christ for they belong to Him as sheep who will eventually hear the voice of their Shepherd as to be saved. In fact, this union has been revealed to have existed before the foundation of the world. This is why when Paul states that God chose "us" in Christ before creation (ephesians 1:4); we essentially had already been given to Christ from the Father; prior to the foundation of the world. In other words, we already belonged to Christ; as being "in Christ" - even from eternity past.

By Aaron Fisher

God's Eternal Perspective / Chose In Christ, Before The Foundation of the World.

The Apostle Paul said that the Ephesian believers were chose as already "in Christ" before the foundation of the world to be holy and blameless; so their being in Christ wasn't necessarily dependent upon them believing but rather ultimately dependent upon God who chose and predestined them having already been in Christ when He did so - because before the foundation of the world there was an absence of the concept of time; therefore God sees those whom He has chose and predestined as already "in Christ" for He is not bound by time nor a chronological order of events as we are since He is eternal. God can call a people (His Elect) into existence before the foundation of the world by Decree and having been so absolute or certain of their existence; He considered or counted them as already existing even before they actually physically existed (romans 4:17).

God's "eternal perspective" is His divine vantage point being outside of and not bound by time; for He transcends it. This is why He can proclaim that believers are (1) ALREADY seated with Christ in the heavenly places (ephesians 2:6) when we at present are physically not (2) ALREADY glorified (romans 8:30) when we at present are physically not (3) ALREADY raised with Christ (colossians 3:1) when we at present are physically not (4) and were ALREADY in Christ before the foundation of the world when God chose us (ephesians 1:4) because to Him being outside of and not bound by time these things have ALREADY taken place - not literally but certain to come pass. To God, those things that He has decreed before creation to come to pass are just as in the present as if the decree has already come to pass. 

God before creation, calls as of certainty a thing into being "before time" as to exist "in time" - although, certain to exist; as If it has already existed before creation (romans 4:17). Before time was created, what men perceive as reality at present already existed as a thing certain before anything was created to a God who is eternal. So we must realize that when the Apostle Paul claims that God has chose "us" as already in Christ before the foundation of the world while addressing believers regarding EPHESIANS 1:4; he is speaking from a position of eternity past or before time while not beholden to the concept of any chronological order of events as we are. This is why it's hard for us to understand the notion that we were already "in Christ" as an unbeliever or specifically even having not been born as of yet from God's viewpoint. Opponents of this view; accurately taught I trust - either avoid what the text literally says (God chose us in Christ before the foundation of the world) or just simply have a hard to explaining the plain text. At this point, let's consider this verse (ephesians 1:4) in it's converse as to perhaps even make what the Apostle Paul has said even more simplified - "before the foundation of the world God chose us in Christ". Essentially, Paul is arguing - that before the foundation of the world, God chose a particular people (us) who were already in Christ.. Those who disagree with the plain text as the Apostle Paul taught will ultimately have to explain; how is it possible for God to have chose "believers" before creation as most suggest is the correct understanding - when no one was even born before the foundation of the world at the 'time' of God's choosing; let alone at a 'time' when no one physically existed as of yet as well. 

It is my position that God chose specific individuals who were not in existence physically as of yet but as of a certainty according to His eternal decree will exist. When Paul states that God chose US "in Christ" in regards to Ephesians 1:4 - he was was NOT saying that God chose US "to be" in Christ. On the contrary, God's elect have ALWAYS been 'in Christ' from an eternal perspective; since God is not bound by time. And since God is not bound by time; He has the ability to speak whatever into existence as if it already exist for whatever God speaks and predetermines into existence it already exist from God's perspective because of its certainty to come into existence. This is why God can assert that those He has chose before the foundation of the world are ALREADY in Christ; even to the point of those He has chose not having existed as of yet. 

In addition, Paul is stating that God chose US in Christ before the foundation of the world as BELONGING to Christ; even from eternity past. Or, in other words; God chose US in Christ before the foundation of the world as a "union" between His people who did not physically exist as of yet and His Son; albeit as an union CERTAIN to come to fruition "in time" according to His decree which was "before time". What God has decreed before time or creation will inevitably come to pass as a thing undoubtedly certain after creation for those whom He has foreknew and loved beforehand. Christ UNION with the Father's elect has ALWAYS been; there NEVER was a 'time' when the Elect of God or the sheep of Christ did not belong to them both. This possession of a particular people is entirely based upon the decree of God. 

Lastly, we, as the elect of God existed eternally; however only in the mind and plan of God. Before creation; the plan of God was to always create a particular people for Himself that would be carried out over a period of time or after creation. In other words, there was never a "time" when God did not have a particular people in mind to create for His own glory. God chose a people for Himself before the 'concept' of time had been established; hence, God's elect eternally existed. Mind you, the same Greek word (pro 4253) is used as it relates to "before the foundation of the world" relating to both man and the Son of God (ephesians 1:4 and 1 peter 1:20). Even though, however, God's Elect and God's Son both eternally existed - God's Son existed as an uncreated being while God's Elect of course as created beings; there remains a distinction between the two. Furthermore, God foreknew both; His Son and His Elect as eternally existing having been both eternally beloved by the Father in a favorable sense as to glorify Him regarding Christ work of redemption for His people.

By Aaron Fisher 

Natural People & Spiritual People | 1 Corinthians 2: 14-16 / Pastor Richard Caldwell

The natural person does not accept the things of the Spirit of God, for they are folly to him, and he is not able to understand them because they are spiritually discerned. The spiritual person judges all things, but is himself to be judged by no one. “For who has understood the mind of the Lord so as to instruct him?” But we have the mind of Christ. - 1 Corinthians 2:14-16

CLICK HERE - TO LISTEN TO SERMON.

Middle Knowledge? As in Molinism ..... is simply unbiblical.

     God's decision to create could not be based upon 'middle knowledge' because middle knowledge consist of man having "free will". This notion, is an impossibility seeing that Christ as the Sacrificial Lamb is the central focus point of all that entails and surrounds God's decree. Furthermore, I argue the most essential and main components that would not only carry out (initiate) God's decree but also bring it to fruition and fulfillment - are the eternal Convents of God. The eternal purposes of God are dependent upon these Covenants. These Covenants are not eternal in the same manner as God; being without a beginning or end; but they are eternal in the sense that they are inseperately associated with Christ, the Sacrificial Lamb who was foreknown by the Father before the foundation of the world. The covenants are eternal in so far as Christ is eternal and if the Convents are eternal, then so is God's purposes which derive from God's Covenants.

     So, seeing that God's purposes are eternal and that they are from before creation and no one can thwart God's eternal purposes or plan, then it is also impossibility for man to have "free will". For if this was to be true, then it would be possible for man to indeed thwart the will and purposes of God as it relates to what God has solely or unilaterally determined to fulfill by way of these Covenants.

     What would be the purpose for God having or using Middle Knowledge 'before He decide' to create if there is no 'free wil'l to do other than what God has already purposed to come to pass? Would Middle Knowledge that God supposedly possesses have a purpose if there was no free will?

     What would be the purpose for God using Middle Knowledge 'before He decide' to create if there is actually no other circumstance that man would operate under, to do other than - what God has already determined? Would Middle Knowledge have a purpose if there was no other circumstance that man could operate under other than what God has predetermined?

NO!!!!!

This is why there is no such thing as middle knowledge in the scriptures for middle knowledge would not serve any purpose with God!

I argue,

     Can God know what man would do under other circumstances? Sure He could. But the question is how would He know? I argue God could only know what man would do under different circumstances if He has predetermined what man would do under different circumstances. There is no "free will". What God predetermine man would do, man will indeed do because God's predetermination is based upon His decree which entails His eternal purposes according to the plan of God evolving around His Son, the Sacrificial Lamb - for His Elect whom He promised eternal life to before time. So in light of God having the ability to know what man would do under different circumstances, this notion, that man would do different under different circumstances would not nor could not happen for the purposes and plan of God is unchanging or rather fixed based upon His eternal decree. Middle knowledge is therefore unbilical!

By Aaron Fisher