66 Bible Verses about Saints
Most Relevant Verses
[it is being sent] to the church of God at Corinth. [You people are] set apart in [the fellowship of] Christ Jesus and called [by God] to be saints [i.e., His holy people], along with all [others] everywhere who call on our Lord Jesus Christ [i.e., in prayer]. He is their Lord and ours [as well].
All of you there in Rome [i.e., the church there] are also among such obedient believers. You are called Jesus Christ's [people], loved by God and called to be His holy people. May you have unearned favor and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.
By [Christ doing] what God wanted, we have been set aside for God through Jesus Christ offering His body once for all time.
Greetings to Philologus and Julia, Nereus and his sister, and Olympas, and all [the others] of God's people who are with them.
And God, who searches our hearts, knows what the Holy Spirit [has] in mind, because He [i.e., the Holy Spirit] goes to God on behalf of the saints [i.e., God's holy people] in harmony with God's will.
to be rescued from those who are disobedient in Judea [i.e., unbelieving Jews]. And [pray] that my service for Jerusalem [i.e., the offering for poor people. See verses 25-26] will be acceptable to God's people there.
Greet every saint [i.e., God's holy person] in [fellowship with] Christ Jesus. The brothers who are with me [also] send their greetings to you. All the saints [here with me] send you their greetings, especially those belonging to [Emperor] Caesar's household.
[This message is] the secret which has been kept hidden throughout the ages and generations, but has now been revealed to God's saints [i.e., His holy people].
having a reputation for doing good deeds, [such as] bringing up children, showing hospitality to strangers, washing the feet of the saints [i.e., God's holy people], assisting people in trouble and devoting herself to doing all [other] kinds of good deeds.
because God is not a God of disorder but of peace [i.e., harmony]. As is the practice in all of the churches of the saints [i.e., God's holy people],
[This letter is from] Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus, according to God's will, [and is being sent] to the saints [i.e., God's holy people] at Ephesus [Note: This was a major city in the western province of Asia Minor, and now a part of Turkey. The words "at Ephesus" are omitted in some manuscripts, suggesting it was a circular letter], and the faithful ones in [fellowship with] Christ Jesus [everywhere else ?].
[and is being sent] to the saints [i.e., God's holy people] and faithful brothers in [fellowship with] Christ [who live] at Colosse. May you have unearned favor and peace from God our Father.
But you should not even talk about sexual immorality, or any type of [moral] impurity, or greed. [Note: Possibly "greed" here means "desire for more" of such things]. Such talk is not suitable for saints [i.e., God's holy people]. Nor should obscenity, silly chatter or double-meaning jokes be used, because they are not proper either. But instead, [you should express] thanksgiving.
Welcome her [as someone to fellowship] in the Lord, in a way that God's people should. And you people should help her in whatever way she needs you, for she herself has helped many people, including me.
I urge you, therefore, as a prisoner of the Lord, to live in a way that measures up to [the standard required by] God when He called you. Live in a humble, gentle and patient way, showing tolerance [for the weaknesses] of one another out of love [for them]. Eagerly try to maintain the unity produced by the Holy Spirit by being bound together in peace.
Since all these things are [certain] to be destroyed, what kind of persons should you be, [if not like those] living holy lives, and in a godly manner,
If anyone goes [or "leads others"] into captivity, he will go into captivity [himself]; if anyone is killed [or "kills others"] with the sword, he will be killed with the sword [himself]. Here is [where] God's holy people [need] perseverance and faith.
Here is [where] God's holy people, who obey His commandments and the faith of Jesus, [need] perseverance.
Contribute to the needs of God's people. Be eager in showing hospitality.
But for now, I am on my way to Jerusalem to minister to [the needs of] God's holy people there. For [the Christians in] Macedonia and Achaia [Note: These were provinces in Greece] thought it was a good idea to take up an offering for the poor saints at Jerusalem.
If any one of you has a complaint against someone, how can you dare to take it before non-Christian judges [to be decided], instead of before the saints [i.e., God's holy people]?
Now concerning the collection for the [needy] saints [whom you wrote me about]: You people also should do what I directed the churches in Galatia to do. On every first day of the week [i.e., at the regular Sunday assembly] each one of you should set aside and store up [money] in proportion to your income, so that no collections will have to be taken when I come.
Now it is unnecessary for me to write you about this service to God's holy people [in Jerusalem, who were in need]. For I know how eager you [already] are, and I have boasted about you to the Macedonians, that Achaia [Note: This was the southernmost province of Greece, where Corinth was located] has been prepared [to give] since last year. And your enthusiasm has stirred up most of them [to give also].
For, both the One who makes people holy [i.e., Jesus], and those who are made holy [i.e., Christians], all come from one [Father], and for this reason Christ is not ashamed to call them His brothers,
Remain united to me, and I will remain united to you. Just as a branch cannot bear fruit by itself, unless it remains united to the vine, so neither can you people [bear fruit] unless you remain united to me. "I am the vine; you people are the branches. The person who remains united to me, and I to him, will bear much fruit. For you cannot do anything if [you are] separated from me.
[This letter is from] Paul and Timothy, slaves of Christ Jesus, [and is being sent] to all the saints [i.e., God's holy people] who are at Philippi [Note: This is a town in present-day northeastern Greece, and the first place in Europe where Paul established Christianity], along with the overseers [Note: These men were also called elders, shepherds or pastors] and deacons.
Greet every saint [i.e., God's holy person] in [fellowship with] Christ Jesus. The brothers who are with me [also] send their greetings to you.
On that day Jesus will return to be honored by His saints [i.e., God's holy people] and to be marveled at [i.e., in reverence] by all those who had believed [in Him]. [This will happen] because you have believed our testimony to you [about Christ].
If you belonged to the world, the world would love [you as] its own people. But since you do not belong to the world, for I chose you out of it, that is why the world hates you.
I have given them your word, and the world hated them because they do not belong to the world just as I do not belong to the world.
But Ananias answered, "Lord, I have heard from many people about how much harm this man has done to your holy people at Jerusalem.
So, I was doing this in Jerusalem, having received [my] authority from the leading priests. I both imprisoned many of the saints [i.e., God's holy people] and [even] voiced my approval when they were put to death [See 8:1].
And he was given [the power] to wage war against the saints [i.e., God's holy people] and to conquer them; and he was given authority over every tribe, race, language group and nation.
For they [i.e., the followers of the beast. See verse 2] have shed the blood of God's holy people and [their] prophets, and you have given them blood to drink because they deserved it [i.e., these persecutors deserved the punishment they received for shedding blood].
I pray that your minds will be enlightened so that you will know what the hope is, to which God has called you, and what the glorious abundance is, of God's inheritance in the saints [Note: Paul wanted them to appreciate the value God placed on them],
Graves opened up and the bodies of many dead saints [i.e., God's holy people] were raised up [from the dead].
Or, do you not know that God's people will judge the world? [Note: Possibly this refers to Christians somehow assisting Christ on the judgment day]. And if the world is [to be] judged by you [at that time], are you not capable of judging small matters [now]?
[May you] give thanks to the Father who has enabled you to share [i.e., eventually] in the inheritance of the saints [i.e., God's holy people] in [the kingdom of] light.
From Thematic Bible
Cave » Used as a dwelling » Saints
(The world did not deserve such people). They wandered in deserts and mountains, [living] in caves and [even] holes in the ground.
Cities » Illustrative of » Saints
You people are [like] light in the world. A city built on a hill will not go unnoticed.
Communion with God » Saints » Have, in prayer
So, we should approach, with confidence, God's throne of unearned favor, so we can receive mercy and obtain that favor to help us when we need it.
Do not worry about anything, but in everything, by prayer and [special] petition, along with thanksgivings, you should make your requests known to God.
Communion with God » Saints » Desires
So, I am in a dilemma between the two choices. [On the one hand] I have the desire to depart [from this life] and be with Christ [in heaven], which would be far better.
Communion with God » Saints » Should always enjoy
"And I will ask the Father and He will give you another Helper [i.e., besides me], who will be with you forever. He is the Holy Spirit of truth [i.e., who reveals truth], whom the world cannot receive, for it does not see Him or know Him. [But] you know Him, for He lives with you, and will be within you. I will not abandon you [Note: The Greek says, "leave you orphans"]; I will come [back] to you.
Communion with God » Saints » Have, in the lord's supper
Does not the "cup of blessing," which we bless, signify a fellowship with Christ's [physical] blood? [Note: This was the cup used at the close of the Passover meal and was called this because of the prayer of thanksgiving offered for it. Paul refers to such a prayer in connection with its use in the Lord's Supper]. Does not the bread that we break signify a fellowship with Christ's [physical] body?
Communion with God » Saints » Have, in meditation
Compassion and sympathy » Exercise towards » Saints
so that there would not be any division in the body [Note: Paul here leaves the analogy of the physical body and makes application to the spiritual body, the church], but that its parts should have equal concern for each other. So, if one part [i.e., one Christian] suffers, then all the parts [i.e., the other Christians] should suffer with it. Or, if one part is honored, all the [other] parts should rejoice with it.
Contempt » The wicked exhibit towards » Saints
Deceit » Saints » Free from
Deceit » Saints » Should beware of those who teach
Do not let anyone deceive you with empty words, for because of such things, the wrath of God will fall upon people who are disobedient [to Him].
Pay attention so that no one takes you [spiritually] captive through his philosophy and empty deception based on human tradition, according to the principles of the world and not according to Christ.
Deceit » Saints » Pray for deliverance from those who use
Deceit » Saints » Should lay aside, in seeking truth
Therefore, you should put out of your lives all malice [i.e., bad attitudes], and all deceit and hypocrisy, and all envy and unwholesome talk.
Deceit » Saints » Delivered from those who use
Deceit » Saints » Shun those addicted to
Deceit » Saints » Purposed against
Deceit » Saints » Avoid
Deceit » Saints » Purpose against
Decision » Instances of » Saints
These people are the ones who did not practice sexual immorality with women, for they were virgins [Note: This probably has reference to people who avoided idolatry]. These are people who followed the Lamb wherever He went. They were purchased from among mankind to be the firstfruits [devoted] to God and to the Lamb.
false Doctrines » Should be avoided by » Saints
Pay attention so that no one takes you [spiritually] captive through his philosophy and empty deception based on human tradition, according to the principles of the world and not according to Christ.
Then we will no longer be [spiritual] babies, tossed back and forth [by waves], and blown around by every wind of [false] teaching, [deceived] by the clever trickery of people using deceptive schemes.
Glorifying God » Saints » Should resolve to
Glorifying God » Saints » Unite in
so that in [genuine] unity and with one voice, you people may honor the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.
Glorifying God » Saints » Persevere in
Grace » Saints » Abound in gifts of
And God is able to provide you with abundant gifts, so that you will always have plenty of everything, and that you will also have plenty for doing every good deed.
And the apostles testified concerning the resurrection of the Lord Jesus with great power, and the favor [of God] was upon all of them.
Now, brothers, we want you to know about the favor God has given to the churches in Macedonia.
And when they see the outstanding [evidence of] God's favor in you, they will pray for you with deep affection [or, "will long to see you"].
Grace » Saints » Are what they are by
For this is what we boast of: Our conscience testifies that we have conducted ourselves in the world, and especially toward you, in holiness and godly sincerity, not with human wisdom, but with the favor of God.
But I am whatever I am because of God's unearned favor, and the favor He showed me was not for nothing [i.e., Paul made the most of his conversion by being extra diligent in his service to God]. But I worked harder than all the other apostles, yet it was not I, but God's favor on me [that accomplished it].
Grace » Saints » Should speak with
Your speech should always be favorable, seasoned with salt [i.e., interesting and appropriate], so that you may know how to properly answer each person [you talk with].
Do not allow unwholesome [Note: The Greek word for "unwholesome" is "rotten, diseased"] language to come from your mouth, but only what is helpful for building up those who need it, so that you can impart favor [i.e., benefit] to those who listen [to you].
Grace » Saints » Should be strong in
So, may you, my son, be strengthened through the unearned favor that comes from [your fellowship with] Christ Jesus.
Grace » Saints » Should grow in
But grow in the unearned favor and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. May He be honored both now and forever. May it be so.
Grace » Saints » Should be established in
Do not continue to be swept off your course by all kinds of strange teachings. For it is good for your hearts to be strengthened by God's unearned favor [upon you] and not by [keeping regulations about] foods, which do not benefit those who observe them.
Grace » Saints » Are under
For sin must not be your master [i.e., it must not have power over you], for you are not governed by law, but by God's unearned favor.
Grace » Saints » Are heirs of
[You] husbands, in the same way, should live with your wives in an understanding way, recognizing their feminine nature as being physically weaker than yours, and showing special honor to them because of it. [Realize] that sharing your lives together is a gracious gift [from God]. [If you have the right relationship with them] it will help avoid problems in your prayer lives.
Grace » Saints » Receive, from Christ
Holiness » Saints » Shall be presented to God in
yet now God has reconciled [you] to Himself through the death of Christ's physical body in order to present you holy, without fault and free from just blame before Him [on judgment day].
May the Lord strengthen your hearts so you will be [found] without just blame and holy, in the presence of our God and Father, when our Lord Jesus Christ returns with all of His holy ones [i.e., angels. See Mark 8:38; II Thess. 1:7].
Holiness » Saints » Called to
[It is] God who saved us and called us to live holy lives [or, "to be dedicated people"], not as a result of our [good] deeds, but in harmony with His own purpose and unearned favor. [This was] given to us through [the atoning work of] Christ Jesus, before the beginning of time. [Note: Salvation through Christ was planned before time began. See Titus 1:2; Rom. 16:25; Eph. 1:4].
Holiness » Saints » Possess
Therefore, holy brothers [and sisters], who have been called [by God] to share in heaven, think about Jesus, the Apostle and Head Priest, whom we have confessed [as Savior].
If any person destroys God's Temple, God will destroy him. For God's Temple is holy [i.e., set apart for His service], and you people are His [holy] Temple.
Holiness » Saints » Should have their conversation in
Since all these things are [certain] to be destroyed, what kind of persons should you be, [if not like those] living holy lives, and in a godly manner,
but according to the Holy One, who called you [i.e., God], you people also should become holy [i.e., separated for God's service] in all your conduct,
Holiness » Saints » Elected to
For [that class of] persons whom God knew beforehand He also predetermined to become conformed to the [spiritual] likeness of His Son, so that He could be the firstborn One among [His] many brothers [i.e., so He could be the preeminent example to all His followers. See Heb. 2:11].
Even before the creation of the world God chose us, who are in [fellowship with] Christ, to be dedicated [to Him] and to be without just blame in His sight. Out of love
Holiness » Saints » Should yield their members as instruments of
And do not offer the parts of your bodies [i.e., hands, eyes, etc. See Matt. 5:29-30] as tools for [accomplishing] evil purposes; but [instead] offer yourselves to God, as [people who are] alive from the dead [i.e., no longer under the power of sin] and the parts of your bodies as tools for [accomplishing] righteous purposes for God.
I am using human reasoning because of your human weakness. For just as you once offered the parts of your bodies as slaves to impurity and to wickedness, which led to further wickedness; so now [you should] offer the parts of your body as slaves to do what is right, which leads to holy living.
Holiness » Saints » Should seek perfection in
[So], since we have these promises [See 6:16-18], dear ones, we should purify ourselves from everything that pollutes [our] body and spirit while living lives completely separated [from sin], out of reverence for God.
Holiness » Saints » Shall continue in, for ever
The person who is doing wrong should continue to do wrong [if he wants to]; and the person who is [morally] filthy should continue to be [morally] filthy [if he wants to]; and the person who does what is right should continue to do right [if he wants to]; and the person who is living a holy life should continue to live holy [if he wants to]."
Holiness » Saints » New created in
And you should put on the new person who has been [re-] created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness.
Holiness » Saints » Should follow after
Actively seek to live in peace with all people. And be dedicated to God, because no one will see God without this.
Holiness » Saints » Should serve God in
that we would be delivered from the [destructive] hand of our enemies and [then] serve Him without fear by living holy and righteous lives before Him all of our days.
Holiness » Saints » Should present their bodies to God in
So, I urge you, brothers, because God is so merciful [to us], to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, [fully] dedicated and very pleasing to God. For this is a reasonable [or spiritual] way for you to worship [or serve] Him.
Holiness » Saints » Have their fruit unto
But now, since you have been freed from [the practice of] sin and have become slaves to God, the benefits you receive are a holy life [here] and never ending life in the future.
Holiness » Saints » Should continue in
Hope » Saints » Should continue in
So, gather your thoughts together for action, take control of yourselves and focus your hope completely on God's unearned favor, which will be brought to you by Jesus Christ when He returns.
Hope » Saints » Rejoice in
Through Jesus we have also gained access by [our] faith to this unearned favor [of God]. We stand firm in it, and are glad that we have the hope of being honored by God.
Be joyful as you hope [i.e., for future blessings]. Persevere in spite of the troubles you experience. Continue steadfastly in prayer.
Hope » Saints » Should not be moved from
[This will happen] if you continue in the faith [Note: This means either "continue to observe God's teaching" or, "continue to believe"], firmly grounded and established, and not moved away from the hope offered by the Gospel message, which you have heard and which was preached to people throughout the entire created world under heaven. I, Paul, was made a minister of this Gospel.
Hope » Saints » Have, in death
Hope » Saints » Have all, the same
There is [only] one body [i.e., church] and one Holy Spirit, just as God also gave you one hope when He called you [See Titus 3:7].
Hope » Saints » Are called to
There is [only] one body [i.e., church] and one Holy Spirit, just as God also gave you one hope when He called you [See Titus 3:7].
Hope » Saints » Should not be ashamed of
Hope » Saints » Should abound in
May God, [the source] of hope, fill you with complete joy and peace as you believe [in Christ], so that you may have an abundance of hope in the power of the Holy Spirit.
Hope » Saints » Should hold fast
but Christ [was faithful] as a Son over God's household. And we [Christians] are that household, if we hold on to our confidence [in Christ], and to the boasting [i.e., joy] of our hope [in God], firmly to the end [of our lives].
Hope » Saints » Should look for the object of
while looking forward to the blessed hope [i.e., the hope that produces blessings] and the coming splendor of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ.
Judgments » Saints » Acknowledge the justice of
Judgments » Saints » Sympathize with those under
Judgments » Saints » Pray for those under
Judgments » Saints » Provided for, during
Judgments » Saints » Preserved during
The law of God » Saints » Freed from the bondage of
Therefore, my brothers, you also died to the law [i.e., were released from its binding requirements] through the body of Christ [Note: This seems to refer to Christ's death on the cross, but some think it refers to becoming a part of the church], so that you could belong to someone else, [namely] to Christ, who was raised from the dead in order that we might live spiritually productive lives for God.
But now that we have died to what controlled us and have been released from [the requirements of] the law of Moses [i.e., under the Gospel age], we serve [God] in a new way [directed] by the Holy Spirit [Note: Some take "Spirit" here to be "spirit" and see it as describing the inner person], and not in the old way [directed] by the written law of Moses.
For sin must not be your master [i.e., it must not have power over you], for you are not governed by law, but by God's unearned favor.
The law of God » Saints » Have, written on their hearts
For this is the Agreement that I will make with the people of Israel in the coming days, says the Lord: I will put my laws into their minds, and I will also write them on their hearts. And I will be their God and they will be my people.
The law of God » Saints » Love
The law of God » Saints » Delight in
The law of God » Saints » Pledge themselves to walk in
The law of God » Saints » Freed from the curse of
Christ bought us back from the curse [caused by our not obeying all the requirements] of the law of Moses; He became a curse for us [by dying on the cross], for it is written [Deut. 21:23], "Every one who hangs on a tree [i.e., a cross] is cursed [i.e., cut off from God]."
The law of God » Saints » Lament over the violation of by others
The law of God » Saints » Pray for power to keep
The law of God » Saints » Pray to understand
The law of God » Saints » Keep
The law of God » Saints » Should make the subject of their conversation
The law of God » Saints » Should remember
The law of God » Saints » Prepare their hearts to seek
Eternal life » Saints » Have promises of
For physical training is useful to some extent [or, "for a short time"], but living godly is useful in every way, for it promises benefits [not only] for the present life, but [also] for the life to come.
[This letter is from] Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God, according to [the ministry of proclaiming] the promise of never ending life, which is [obtained] through [fellowship with] Christ Jesus.
[and provides] hope for never ending life. God, who cannot lie, promised this [life] before the beginning of time,
And this is the promise which Christ [or, "God"] has given to us: [It is] never ending life. [Note: This passage may mean that God promised us "the Eternal Life," that is, Christ, See John 3:16].
Eternal life » Saints » May have assurance of
I have written these things to you people, who believe in the name [i.e., in the person and work] of the Son of God, so that you can have assurance that you have [the hope of] never ending life. [See Titus 1:2; 3:7; Mark 10:30].
For we know that if our earthly "house" [i.e., our physical body] which is like a tent, is torn down, we have [the promise of] a building from God, a never ending "house" in heaven that is not made by human hands.
Eternal life » Saints » Should lay hold of
Fight the good battle of the faith; take hold of never ending life, to which you were called [i.e., by the Gospel. See II Thess. 2:14], [when] you made the good confession in the presence of many witnesses. [Note: This "confession" probably refers to a person's acknowledgment of Jesus as Lord and Christ prior to his immersion. See Acts 2:36; Rom. 10:9-10].
[In that way] they will store up for themselves a treasure [of never ending rewards] for providing a solid foundation for the future, so that they can take hold of the true life [i.e., in heaven].
Eternal life » Saints » Shall reign in
For if [physical] death ruled [over mankind] because of the sin of the one man [i.e., Adam], how much more will those who receive the abundance of God's unearned favor, and the gift of being right with Him, rule in [never ending] life through the one man, Jesus Christ.
Eternal life » Saints » Shall rise unto
and they will come out [i.e., in the general resurrection on the last day]. Those who had done what was good will be raised [from the dead] to [never ending] life; and those who had done what was evil will be raised [from the dead] to judgment [i.e., to be condemned].
Eternal life » Saints » Have hope of
[and provides] hope for never ending life. God, who cannot lie, promised this [life] before the beginning of time,
[This was] so that, being made right with God by His unearned favor, we could have the hope of [possessing our] inheritance of never ending life [in heaven].
Eternal life » Saints » Shall reap, through the spirit
If he engages in things to satisfy his own sinful desires, he will be [spiritually] destroyed for such conduct, but the one who engages in things to please the Holy Spirit will receive never ending life [as a result].
Eternal life » Saints » Are preserved unto
I give them never ending life and they will never be destroyed, and no one will [be able to] steal them out of my hand. What my Father has given me [i.e., my sheep] are greater than everything [else], and no one is able to steal them from the Father's hand.
Eternal life » Saints » Shall inherit
And every person who has left his house, or brothers, or sisters, or father, or mother, or children or property, for my name's sake [i.e., to become a servant of the Lord], will receive [back] a hundred times as much [in this life] and will [also] inherit never ending life.
Eternal life » Saints » Shall go into
And these [i.e., the ones at His left side] will go away to never ending punishment, but those who did what was right will go to never ending life."
Eternal life » Saints » Look for the mercy of God unto
Keep yourselves in God's love [i.e., continue to love God], as you look forward to [receiving] the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ, [who will grant you] never ending life.
Light » Illustrative of » Saints
so that you will be without just blame and innocent [of wrongdoing], children of God without fault in the middle of a crooked and perverted generation of people. You must shine among them like stars lighting up the sky,
for you people were once darkness [i.e., when living in sin], but now you are light in [fellowship with] the Lord. [So], live like people who belong to light [i.e., who live godly lives],
So, his master commended the dishonest property manager for his shrewdness. For worldly people are more shrewd in dealing with their own kind than are the people of light [i.e., God's people].
Lions » Killed by » Saints
who, by [having] faith, conquered kingdoms, practiced what was right, and obtained what was promised [by God]. They shut the mouths of lions,
Love to man » Should be exhibited, toward » Saints
Show [proper] respect for everyone. Love your [Christian] brothers [and sisters]. Have an awe-inspiring respect for God. Show honor to the king.
Every person who believes that Jesus is the Christ [i.e., God's specially chosen one] has been [spiritually] conceived [and eventually born] by God. And everyone who [continually] loves God, who did the conceiving, also [must continually] love the person whom God has [spiritually] conceived.
Loving Kindness Of God » Saints » Are ever mindful of
Loving Kindness Of God » Saints » Are heard according to
Loving Kindness Of God » Saints » Drawn by
Loving Kindness Of God » Saints » Should expect, in affliction
Loving Kindness Of God » Saints » Quickened after
Loving Kindness Of God » Saints » Comforted by
Loving Kindness Of God » Saints » Receive mercy through
Loving Kindness Of God » Saints » Crowned with
Loving Kindness Of God » Saints » Preserved by
Loving Kindness Of God » Saints » Look for mercy through
Loving Kindness Of God » Saints » Betrothed in
Lying » Saints » Hate
Lying » Saints » Pray to be preserved from
Lying » Saints » Avoid
Lying » Saints » Reject those who practice
Lying » Saints » Respect not those who practice
Martyrdom » Saints » Forewarned of
At that time people will turn you over [to the authorities] for persecution and will [even] kill you. And people from all countries will hate you for being loyal to me.
The Jewish authorities will expel you from their synagogues. In fact, the time will come when whoever kills you will think he is doing a service to God.
[At that time] a person will turn his brother over to be killed, and the father [will do the same to] his child. And children will rebel against their parents and turn them over to be killed.
Martyrdom » Saints » Should not fear
Do not be afraid of the things you are about to suffer. [For] look, the devil is about to throw some of you into prison, so that you may be tested, and you will suffer persecution for ten days. [But], you should be faithful [to God] even to the point of dying [for Him], and I will give you the crown of [never ending] life.
And do not be afraid of those who can kill your body but not your soul. Instead, fear Him [i.e., God] who is able to destroy both your soul and body in hell. [See note on 5:29].
Martyrdom » Saints » Should be prepared for
Then Jesus said to His disciples, "If anyone wants to be my follower, he should deny self [i.e., of always having its own way] and lift up his cross [of responsibility] and [then he can] become my follower. For whoever would [try to] save his life [i.e., by neglecting spiritual things] will lose it [i.e., miss out on the blessings of God]. But whoever [is willing to] lose his life [i.e., in commitment to God's service] for my sake will find it [i.e., obtain both temporal and spiritual blessings].
Martyrdom » Saints » Should resist sin unto
You have not yet resisted to the point of [shedding] blood in your struggle against sin.
Murder » Saints » Should warn others against
Murder » Saints » Specially warned against
[However], you should not have to suffer for murdering, stealing, doing evil or interfering in the affairs of others.
Murder » Saints » Deprecate the guilt of
Nazarites » Illustrative of » Saints
Therefore, the Lord says [Isa. 52:11], "You people should leave their company [i.e., unbelievers, verse 14] and separate yourselves from them, and do not touch anything unclean [i.e., their evil practices], and I will welcome you."
Religion that is pure and uncorrupted in the eyes of [our] God and Father involves taking care of orphans and widows in their distress and keeping oneself unstained by the world.
spiritual Peace » Saints » Wish, to each other
[This letter is from] Paul, and Silvanus and Timothy, [and is being sent] to the church of the Thessalonians [Note: This was a town in present-day northeastern Greece] in [fellowship with] God, the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. May God's unearned favor and peace be upon you.
To all those people who live by this rule, may there be peace and mercy [from God] in their lives; that is, upon [those people who are truly] God's "Israel" [i.e., the church].
[and is being sent] to the saints [i.e., God's holy people] and faithful brothers in [fellowship with] Christ [who live] at Colosse. May you have unearned favor and peace from God our Father.
May unearned favor and peace be upon you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.
spiritual Peace » Saints » Have, with God
So, since we are made right with God by [our] faith, we have peace with Him through our Lord Jesus Christ.
spiritual Peace » Promised to » Saints
spiritual Peace » Saints » Die in
"Master, you may now allow your servant to be released [i.e., die] in peace, according to what you said.
spiritual Peace » Saints » Kept by
And [when you do], the peace from God, which surpasses all comprehension, will guard your hearts and thoughts [from anxiety] in [fellowship with] Christ Jesus.
spiritual Peace » Saints » Ruled by
You should let the peace given by Christ rule in your hearts, since you people were called [to be at peace] in one body [i.e., the church]; and you should be thankful.
spiritual Peace » Saints » Enjoy
spiritual Peace » Saints » Kept in perfect
spiritual Peace » Saints » Blessed with
spiritual Peace » Saints » Have in Christ
I have said these things to you so that you can have peace in [fellowship with] me. You will have trouble in the world, but cheer up, for I have conquered the world."
spiritual Peace » Saints » Repose in
Power » Of the holy spirit » Saints » Enabled to speak the truth boldly by
But they could not stand up to the wisdom and [power of] the Holy Spirit by which Stephen spoke.
This arrangement pleased the whole group, so they selected Stephen, a man full of faith and the Holy Spirit, Philip, Prochorus, Nicanor, Timon, Parmenas and Nicolaus, a proselyte [i.e., convert to the Jewish religion] from Antioch.
For God did not give us a spirit [i.e., a disposition] that makes us cowards but one that gives us power and love and self-control. So, do not be ashamed to testify for our Lord, or ashamed of [being associated with] me, His prisoner, but [be willing to] suffer hardship with me for the sake of the Gospel, relying on God's power [to sustain you].
Power » Of the holy spirit » Saints » Strengthened by
[I pray] that, according to God's glorious abundance, He would empower you to become [spiritually] strong through His Holy Spirit in your inner person,
Power » Of the holy spirit » Saints » Upheld by
Power » Of the holy spirit » Saints » Abound in hope by
May God, [the source] of hope, fill you with complete joy and peace as you believe [in Christ], so that you may have an abundance of hope in the power of the Holy Spirit.
Power » Of the holy spirit » Saints » Helped in prayer by
And in the same way, the Holy Spirit helps [us in] our weakness; for we do not know what we ought to pray for [Note: Some translators understand this as "how to pray"]. But the Holy Spirit goes to God on our behalf with groanings [in our hearts] that are not expressed [in words].
The power of Christ » Saints » Strengthened by
But the Lord stood by me and strengthened me, so that through me the message could be fully proclaimed and that all the Gentiles could hear it. And I was rescued from the lion's mouth. [Note: This is probably a figure of speech indicating that Paul had escaped some immediate danger. See Psa. 22:20-21].
I can do everything through Christ, who gives me the strength.
The power of Christ » Saints » Preserved by
For I am suffering these things [See verse 8] for this reason [i.e., because of being a Gospel preacher]. Yet I am not ashamed because I know whom I have believed in [i.e., Jesus], and I am convinced that He is able to guard what I have entrusted to Him [i.e., Paul's spiritual well-being] until that day [i.e., the day of judgment].
The Lord will [continue to] rescue me from all harm and will bring me safely into His heavenly kingdom. May He be praised forever and ever. May it be so.
The power of Christ » Saints » Bodies of, shall be changed by
who will change our lowly [physical] bodies and make them like His glorious body. [He will do this] according to the power that enables Him even to bring everything into submission to Himself.
The power of Christ » Saints » Succored by
For since He Himself suffered when He was tempted, He is [also] able to help those who [suffer when they] are tempted.
The power of Christ » Saints » Made willing by
God, Power of » Saints » Supported in affliction by
by preaching the truth; through the power of God [i.e., possibly including miracles]; and by [using] weapons of righteousness in [our] right and left hands. [Note: This could allude to offensive and defensive weapons and means that Paul was fully equipped to do whatever was right].
So, do not be ashamed to testify for our Lord, or ashamed of [being associated with] me, His prisoner, but [be willing to] suffer hardship with me for the sake of the Gospel, relying on God's power [to sustain you].
God, Power of » Saints » Strengthened by
Finally, be [spiritually] strong in the Lord and in His mighty power.
[We also pray that you will be] strengthened with great power, according to God's glorious might, so that you will have great endurance and patience [coupled] with joy.
God, Power of » Saints » Delivered by
God, Power of » Saints » Upheld by
God, Power of » Saints » Receive increase of grace by
And God is able to provide you with abundant gifts, so that you will always have plenty of everything, and that you will also have plenty for doing every good deed.
God, Power of » Saints » Have confidence in
God, Power of » Saints » Long for exhibitions of
God, Power of » Saints » Kept by, unto salvation
Through God's power you are protected by [your] faith, so that you can expect to be saved in the end.
God, Power of » Saints » Exalted by
Power, Of The Holy Spirit » Saints » Enabled to speak the truth boldly by
But they could not stand up to the wisdom and [power of] the Holy Spirit by which Stephen spoke.
This arrangement pleased the whole group, so they selected Stephen, a man full of faith and the Holy Spirit, Philip, Prochorus, Nicanor, Timon, Parmenas and Nicolaus, a proselyte [i.e., convert to the Jewish religion] from Antioch.
For God did not give us a spirit [i.e., a disposition] that makes us cowards but one that gives us power and love and self-control. So, do not be ashamed to testify for our Lord, or ashamed of [being associated with] me, His prisoner, but [be willing to] suffer hardship with me for the sake of the Gospel, relying on God's power [to sustain you].
Power, Of The Holy Spirit » Saints » Strengthened by
[I pray] that, according to God's glorious abundance, He would empower you to become [spiritually] strong through His Holy Spirit in your inner person,
Power, Of The Holy Spirit » Saints » Abound in hope by
May God, [the source] of hope, fill you with complete joy and peace as you believe [in Christ], so that you may have an abundance of hope in the power of the Holy Spirit.
Power, Of The Holy Spirit » Saints » Helped in prayer by
And in the same way, the Holy Spirit helps [us in] our weakness; for we do not know what we ought to pray for [Note: Some translators understand this as "how to pray"]. But the Holy Spirit goes to God on our behalf with groanings [in our hearts] that are not expressed [in words].
Power, Of The Holy Spirit » Saints » Upheld by
Praise » Is obligatory upon » Saints
Prayer, answers to » Saints » Praise God for
Prayer, answers to » Saints » Bless God for
Prayer, answers to » Saints » Love God for
Prayer, answers to » Saints » Are assured of
And if we can be sure that He hears our request for whatever we ask [of Him], we can [also] be certain that we [will] have whatever we have requested from Him.
Precious stones » Illustrative of » Saints
But if anyone [i.e., a preacher or soul winner] builds on this foundation with gold, silver, expensive building stones, wood, grass, or straw,
Pride » Saints » Mourn over, in others
Pride » Saints » Hate, in others
Pride » Saints » Give not way to
Pride » Saints » Respect not, in others
priests » Illustrative of » Saints
But you people are especially chosen [by God]; you are a royal body of priests; you are a nation especially set apart for God's use; you are a people who belong exclusively to God, that you may express the virtues of the One who called you out of darkness [i.e., of sin and error], and into His marvelous light [i.e., righteousness and truth].
The promises of God » Saints » Plead, in prayer
The promises of God » Saints » Heirs of
And if you belong to Christ, then you are [truly] Abraham's seed [i.e., his spiritual descendants] and thereby [you will] inherit what was promised to him [i.e., God's blessings].
By [having] faith, he became an alien in the foreign country that had been promised to him. He lived in tents, along with Isaac [his son] and Jacob [his grandson], who [also] were to receive the same inheritance he had been promised.
Since God wanted to show conclusively to those who would inherit the promise [i.e., Abraham and all of his spiritual descendants], how unchangeable His purpose was, He confirmed it with an oath.
The promises of God » Saints » Expect the performance of
And she who [has] believed [the promises made by the Lord] is [truly] blessed, for the things which have been spoken to her [i.e., to Mary] by the Lord will [indeed] be fulfilled."
But, since God has promised it, we look forward to new heavens and a new earth, where righteousness will prevail.
And Mary said, "Here I am, the Lord's slave-girl; let it happen to me according to what you say." Then the angel left her.
The promises of God » Saints » Children of
This means that it is not the physical descendants [of Abraham] who are God's children, but it is the children [born] according to [God's] promise who are [Abraham's true] descendants.
Now, brothers, you [Christians] are children of the promise [made to Abraham. See 3:29] just like Isaac, [Abraham's son] was.
The promises of God » Saints » Sometimes, through infirmity, tempted to doubt
The promises of God » Saints » Have implicit confidence in
By [having] faith, Sarah herself received the ability to have children, even though she was [sterile, being] past the age of child-bearing, since she considered God faithful to His promise. [Note: Some translations consider "Abraham" to be the subject of this highly controversial verse. See Lightfoot, pages 222-225].
The promises of God » Saints » Stagger not at
Yet he looked for the promise of God [to be fulfilled] and did not waver, doubting [that it would happen], but his faith strengthened him. He honored God
Protection » Saints » Acknowledge God as their
Protection » Saints » Pray for
Protection » Saints » Praise God for
Jesus Christ, Resurrection » Saints » Shall rise in the likeness of
who will change our lowly [physical] bodies and make them like His glorious body. [He will do this] according to the power that enables Him even to bring everything into submission to Himself.
And just as we [now] appear [in both a physical and spiritual body] like the man who came from dust [i.e., Adam]; we will also [someday] appear [in both a physical(?) and spiritual body] like the man who came from heaven [i.e., Christ].
For, if we have become united with Christ in an act similar to His death [i.e., by being buried in water], we will also be [united with Him] in an act similar to His resurrection from the dead [i.e., our rising from the water to live a new life].
Jesus Christ, Resurrection » Saints » Begotten to a lively hope
God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, is to be praised for being so merciful as to have given us a new birth, which provides for us a hope of never ending life through the means of Jesus Christ's return from the dead.
[It is] through Christ, whom God raised from the dead and honored, that you people have become believers in God, so that your faith and hope could rest in God.
Jesus Christ, Resurrection » Saints » Desire to know the power of
I want to know Christ [as Savior] and to experience the power [produced] by His resurrection, and to share in His sufferings and become like Him in His death,
Jesus Christ, Resurrection » Saints » Should keep, in remembrance
[In the face of trouble] remember Jesus Christ, a descendant of King David, who was raised from the dead according to my Gospel,
Reviling and reproaching » Saints » Sometimes depressed by
Reviling and reproaching » Saints » Return blessings for
we work hard with our hands. [Though] we are cursed, we [ask God's] blessing [on people]; [though] we are persecuted, we persevere;
Do not repay a wrong action with [another] wrong action, nor abusive [language] with [additional] abuse, but rather be a blessing [to one another]. For the purpose of your being called [by God] was so that you could receive a blessing [from Him eventually].
Reviling and reproaching » Saints » Endure
For that reason we work hard and struggle, because we have our hope set on the living God, who is the Savior of all people, [and] especially of those who believe [in Christ].
Sometimes you were subjected to public ridicule and abuse, and at other times you shared [vicariously] with those people who were treated that way.
Reviling and reproaching » Saints » Pray under
Reviling and reproaching » The wicked utter, against » Saints
Reviling and reproaching » Saints » Trust in God under
Reviling and reproaching » Saints » May take pleasure in
So, I am pleased to [endure] weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions and difficulties, [all] for Christ's sake. For when I am weak [physically], then I am strong [spiritually].
Reviling and reproaching » Saints » Supported under
So, I am pleased to [endure] weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions and difficulties, [all] for Christ's sake. For when I am weak [physically], then I am strong [spiritually].
Reviling and reproaching » Saints » Should expect
A disciple is doing well if he can be [as good] as his teacher, and the slave [as good] as his master. If they have called the master of the house [i.e., Jesus] Beelzebub [i.e., the chief of evil spirits. See Mark 3:22], how much more [likely] will they call members of his household [i.e., the disciples] the same thing!
Reviling and reproaching » Saints » Should not fear
Reviling and reproaching » Saints » Endure for God's sake
Reviling and reproaching » Saints » Endure for Christ's sake
You are blessed when men hate you and withdraw their fellowship from you and speak abusively about you and reject your name as evil, [all] for being loyal to the Son of man.
The righteous » Saints » Promises to
And the nations were enraged, but your wrath has come [anyway]. The time has come for the dead to be judged and for your servants the prophets to receive their reward, [along with] the saints and [both] the insignificant and important ones who revere your name. [It is also time] to destroy those who destroy the earth."
Or, do you not know that God's people will judge the world? [Note: Possibly this refers to Christians somehow assisting Christ on the judgment day]. And if the world is [to be] judged by you [at that time], are you not capable of judging small matters [now]?
The righteous » Saints » Sealed by God
saying, "Do not harm the land, or the ocean, or the trees, until we have sealed the servants of our God [with a mark] on their foreheads."
He has placed His seal of ownership upon us by giving us the down payment of the Holy Spirit [to live] in our hearts.
And I looked, and there in front of me was the Lamb, standing on Mount Zion, and with him were one hundred and forty-four thousand persons, with the Lamb's name and His Father's name written on their foreheads.
And they were told not to harm the grass on earth, or any greenery, or any tree, but only those people who did not have God's seal on their foreheads.
The righteous » Saints » Steps of
The righteous » Saints » The feet of
The righteous » Saints » Portion of
Righteousness » Saints » Have in Christ
God considered Christ to be sinful on our behalf, even though He never sinned, so that we could be considered right with God through Him.
Righteousness » Saints » Characterized by
Righteousness » Saints » Are servants of
Do you not know that you are the slaves of whoever you offer your obedience to? If you obey [the desire to] sin, it leads to [spiritual] death; or if you obey [God] it leads to righteousness.
And when you were freed from [the practice of] sin, you became slaves to doing what is right.
Righteousness » Saints » Should live in
Jesus took upon Himself our sins [when] His body was placed upon the cross so that we, [through] dying to [i.e., giving up] the sinful life, would live for righteousness. You were healed [from your sins] by His being brutally treated.
It instructs us to give up ungodly living and worldly desires and to live sensible, righteous and godly lives in this present age,
Righteousness » Saints » Have, imputed
He received the sign of circumcision as a seal [confirming] that he had been [considered] righteous because of the faith he had before being circumcised. Thus, he became the [spiritual] father of all people who believe [in God], even though they have not been circumcised, so that they could be considered righteous [by their faith].
So therefore, God considered him righteous [i.e., because of such faith].
Righteousness » Saints » Do
Little children [i.e., dear ones], do not allow anyone to lead you astray [from the truth]; the person who continues to do what is right is [considered by God as] righteous, even as Christ is righteous.
If you know that Christ is [truly] righteous [verse 1], then you should also know that everyone who does what is right has been [spiritually] conceived [and eventually born] by God [See 5:18].
Righteousness » Saints » Offer the sacrifice of
Righteousness » Saints » Put no trust in their own
As far as enthusiasm is concerned, I persecuted the church; as far as being righteous according to the law of Moses is concerned, I was without just blame. However, those things which were [once regarded as] gain to me, I have [now] considered to be loss for [the sake of] Christ. What is more, I consider everything to be a loss compared to the surpassing value of knowing Christ Jesus [as] my Lord, for whose sake I have suffered the loss of all things. [I now] consider [all of] them to be trash, in order to gain Christ
Righteousness » Saints » Should have on the breast-plate of
So, you people should stand firm [in the faith], with the belt of truth firmly buckled around you, and with the "flack jacket" of righteousness on your chest.
Righteousness » Saints » Are renewed in
And you should put on the new person who has been [re-] created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness.
Righteousness » Saints » Shall receive a crown of
So, now there is a crown of righteousness reserved for me, which the Lord, who is a just Judge, will award me on that day [i.e., the judgment day], and not to me only, but also to everyone who has loved [the prospect of] His appearing.
Righteousness » Saints » Wait for the hope of
For we are waiting for the hope [to be fulfilled] of being made right with God by [the power of] the Holy Spirit.
Righteousness » Saints » Work, by faith
who, by [having] faith, conquered kingdoms, practiced what was right, and obtained what was promised [by God]. They shut the mouths of lions,
Righteousness » Saints » Should seek
Righteousness » Saints » Are covered with the robe of
Righteousness » Saints » Should yield their members servants to
I am using human reasoning because of your human weakness. For just as you once offered the parts of your bodies as slaves to impurity and to wickedness, which led to further wickedness; so now [you should] offer the parts of your body as slaves to do what is right, which leads to holy living.
Righteousness » Saints » Count their own, as filthy rags
Righteousness » Saints » Hunger and thirst after
"Those persons who have an appetite for whatever is right will be blessed because they will be satisfied.
Righteousness » Saints » Shall see God's face in
Righteousness » Saints » Pray for the spirit of
Righteousness » Saints » Know
Righteousness » Saints » Should yield their members as instruments of
And do not offer the parts of your bodies [i.e., hands, eyes, etc. See Matt. 5:29-30] as tools for [accomplishing] evil purposes; but [instead] offer yourselves to God, as [people who are] alive from the dead [i.e., no longer under the power of sin] and the parts of your bodies as tools for [accomplishing] righteous purposes for God.
Righteousness » Saints » Walk before God in
Righteousness » Saints » Follow after
Righteousness » Saints » Are led in the paths of
Righteousness » Saints » Receive, from God
Righteousness » Saints » Should serve God in
Righteousness » Saints » Put on
Righteousness imputed » Saints » Have, on believing
He received the sign of circumcision as a seal [confirming] that he had been [considered] righteous because of the faith he had before being circumcised. Thus, he became the [spiritual] father of all people who believe [in God], even though they have not been circumcised, so that they could be considered righteous [by their faith].
But to the person who believes in God, who makes ungodly people right with Himself apart from doing good deeds, that person's faith is considered by God [as the basis] for being righteous.
but they were written for our sake also, who will be considered righteous by God for believing in Him who raised Jesus our Lord from the dead.
Righteousness imputed » Saints » Desire to be found in
and to be found in [fellowship with] Him, not having a righteousness of my own, acquired by observing the law of Moses, but one acquired through believing in Christ. This righteousness, which comes from God, is based on faith.
Righteousness imputed » Saints » Glory in having
Righteousness imputed » Saints » Clothed with the robe of righteousness
Righteousness imputed » Saints » Exalted in righteousness
God, Righteousness Of » Saints » Talk of
God, Righteousness Of » Saints » Magnify
God, Righteousness Of » Saints » Acknowledge, though the wicked prosper
God, Righteousness Of » Saints » Plead, in prayer
God, Righteousness Of » Saints » Ascribe, to him
God, Righteousness Of » Saints » Recognize, in the fulfilment of his promises
God, Righteousness Of » Saints » Upheld by
God, Righteousness Of » Saints » Declare to others
God, Righteousness Of » Saints » Do not conceal
God, Righteousness Of » Saints » Mention, only
God, Righteousness Of » Saints » Acknowledge, in his dealings
God, Righteousness Of » Saints » Confident of beholding
The sabbath » Saints » Testify against those who desecrate
The sabbath » Saints » Rejoice in
The sabbath » Saints » Observe
The sabbath » Saints » Honor God in observing
Saints » Death of » Glorified
who will change our lowly [physical] bodies and make them like His glorious body. [He will do this] according to the power that enables Him even to bring everything into submission to Himself.
Then the people who did what was right will shine out like the sun in their Father's kingdom. The person who has ears [to hear with] ought to listen [to this] carefully.
And if we are [His] children, then we have an inheritance from God [i.e., blessings here and hereafter] and are fellow-sharers with Christ [of such blessings], providing we [are willing to] suffer with Him, so we can also be honored with Him [i.e., in the future life. See verses 18-25].
After seeing [all] these things, I looked and there [I saw] a huge crowd, which no one could count, from every nation, and tribe, and race, and language group standing in front of the throne [of God] and in front of the Lamb. They were dressed in white robes and had palm tree branches in their hands.
Then suddenly two men were [seen] talking with Jesus. They were Moses and Elijah, who appeared in splendor, and were speaking of Jesus' [coming] departure [i.e., His imminent death], which He was soon to experience at Jerusalem.
Saints » God's knowledge of the saints » Security of
So, we can say with confidence [Psa. 118:6], "[Since] the Lord is my helper, I will not be afraid [of] what people might do to me." [or, "what (harm) can people do to me?"]
Saints » Carnal » When obedient were invincible
Saints » Death of » They cannot be moved
Saints » Death of » Despised
Saints » God's knowledge of the saints » Promises to
And the nations were enraged, but your wrath has come [anyway]. The time has come for the dead to be judged and for your servants the prophets to receive their reward, [along with] the saints and [both] the insignificant and important ones who revere your name. [It is also time] to destroy those who destroy the earth."
Or, do you not know that God's people will judge the world? [Note: Possibly this refers to Christians somehow assisting Christ on the judgment day]. And if the world is [to be] judged by you [at that time], are you not capable of judging small matters [now]?
Saints » Death of » Fellowship of
And it happened, as they were talking and discussing together, that Jesus came near [them] and began walking along with them.
But, if we live in the light [of righteousness] just like God [constantly] lives in the light [of righteousness], we can truly share a relationship with one another and [can know that] the blood of Jesus, God's Son, continues to cleanse [our spirits] from all of our sins.
And these [new converts] continued regularly [to listen] to the teaching of the apostles and to share with them; they broke bread [in memory of Jesus] and continued praying.
Saints » God's knowledge of the saints » Sealed by God
saying, "Do not harm the land, or the ocean, or the trees, until we have sealed the servants of our God [with a mark] on their foreheads."
He has placed His seal of ownership upon us by giving us the down payment of the Holy Spirit [to live] in our hearts.
And I looked, and there in front of me was the Lamb, standing on Mount Zion, and with him were one hundred and forty-four thousand persons, with the Lamb's name and His Father's name written on their foreheads.
And they were told not to harm the grass on earth, or any greenery, or any tree, but only those people who did not have God's seal on their foreheads.
Saints » God's knowledge of the saints » Steps of
Saints » Death of » Hated
At that time people will turn you over [to the authorities] for persecution and will [even] kill you. And people from all countries will hate you for being loyal to me.
If you belonged to the world, the world would love [you as] its own people. But since you do not belong to the world, for I chose you out of it, that is why the world hates you.
You are blessed when men hate you and withdraw their fellowship from you and speak abusively about you and reject your name as evil, [all] for being loyal to the Son of man.
I have given them your word, and the world hated them because they do not belong to the world just as I do not belong to the world.
Saints » God's knowledge of the saints » Remembered
Saints » God's knowledge of the saints » Scattered
And I [also] say to you, that many people will come from the east and the west and will sit down with Abraham, Isaac and Jacob in the kingdom of heaven.
And not just [die] for the [Jewish] nation, but also that He would assemble together into one body the children of God who were scattered [throughout the world].
And He will send out His angels and gather His elect [i.e., God's people] from all directions, from the farthest part of the earth to the farthest part of the sky [i.e., from throughout the whole world].
Then Jesus said [to His disciples], "All of you will have doubts about me tonight, for it is written [Zech. 13:7], 'I will strike down the shepherd and the sheep of the flock will be scattered everywhere.'
[This letter is from] James, a slave of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ, [who sends] greetings to the twelve tribes which are scattered throughout the world. [Note: This refers to Christians, probably of Jewish descent].
Saints » God's knowledge of the saints » Portion of
Saints » Death of » The feet of
Saints » The lord coming with his saints
And it was also prophesied about [these] people by Enoch, the seventh [descendant] of Adam [Gen. 5:18-24], who said, "Look, the Lord came with thousands upon thousands [Note: The Greek uses the plural form of "myriad," which means 10,000] of His holy ones [i.e., angels],
Saints » God's knowledge of the saints » Pillars, as
I will make the person who has victory [in the Christian life] a pillar in the Temple of my God [i.e., probably a reference to heaven], and he will never leave it. And I will write on him the name of my God, the name of the city of my God, the new Jerusalem which is coming down from heaven from my God [See 21:2, 10] and my own new name.
Also, when they perceived that this [special] favor [of preaching to Gentiles] was granted to me, James, Cephas [i.e., Peter] and John, the highly regarded pillars [i.e., leaders of the church] extended to me and Barnabas their right hands [signifying an agreement] to share [in the preaching of the Gospel], with us going to the Gentiles and they going to the circumcised ones [i.e., Jews].
Saints » Jesus Christ being glorified in his saints
and to provide [future] rest for you, along with us, who are afflicted. [This will occur] when Jesus is revealed from heaven in blazing fire [i.e., at His second coming], accompanied by His mighty angels. He will inflict punishment on those people who do not know God [as Savior], and on those who do not obey the Gospel message of our Lord Jesus. They will pay the penalty of never ending destruction, being banished from the presence of the Lord and from His mighty splendor. read more.
On that day Jesus will return to be honored by His saints [i.e., God's holy people] and to be marveled at [i.e., in reverence] by all those who had believed [in Him]. [This will happen] because you have believed our testimony to you [about Christ].
Saints » The lord gathering his saints
Saints » Steps
Saints » Portion
Saints » Feet
Salvation » Saints » Pray to be visited with
Salvation » Saints » Chosen to
[It is] God who saved us and called us to live holy lives [or, "to be dedicated people"], not as a result of our [good] deeds, but in harmony with His own purpose and unearned favor. [This was] given to us through [the atoning work of] Christ Jesus, before the beginning of time. [Note: Salvation through Christ was planned before time began. See Titus 1:2; Rom. 16:25; Eph. 1:4].
But we ought to thank God for you always, brothers [who are] dearly loved by the Lord, because God has chosen you from the beginning [Note: Some manuscripts use the Greek word for "firstfruits" instead of "beginning" here, but it is difficult to know in what sense the Thessalonian Christians were "first"], in order to be saved through being set apart by the Holy Spirit and through belief of the truth [of the Gospel].
Salvation » Saints » Rejoice in
Salvation » Saints » Glory in
But the last thing I want to do is brag [about such things]. For [if I had any bragging to do at all], it would be about [salvation through] the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, for it is through Him that this [sinful] world has been crucified [i.e., died] as far as I am concerned and I have been crucified [i.e., died] as far as it is concerned.
So, as it is written [Jer. 9:23f], "The person who [wants to] boast, let him boast about the Lord."
Salvation » Saints » Wait for
Salvation » Saints » Hope for
For in [this] hope we were saved [i.e., we received the hope of future blessings]; but if we [already] see what we hope for, it is not [really] hope. For who hopes for what he [already] sees?
Salvation » Saints » Praise God for
Salvation » Saints » Long for
Salvation » Saints » Welcome the tidings of
And how can people preach [anywhere] unless they are sent out? Even as it is written [Isa. 52:7], "How welcome is the coming of those who preach the good news [of salvation through Christ]?"
Salvation » Saints » Declare
Salvation » Saints » Ascribe, to God
Salvation » Saints » Have a token of, in their patient suffering for Christ
[I also want to hear] that you are not being frightened by those who oppose you, which [opposition] is proof that they will be destroyed, but that you will be saved, and this will [all] be done by God. Because God has granted you [the privilege], on behalf of Christ, not only to believe in Him, but also to suffer for His sake.
Salvation » Saints » Appointed to obtain
For God did not appoint us to [suffer His] wrath, but to obtain salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ
Salvation » Saints » Evidence, by works
But, my dearly loved ones, even though we talk this way, we are persuaded that you will do better than that [i.e., you will not fall away from God], and will end up being saved. For God is not [so] unjust as to forget the work you are doing and the love you have shown for Him, as you ministered to the saints [i.e., His holy people] and continue to minister [to them].
Salvation » Saints » Earnestly look for
Salvation » Saints » Commemorate, with thanks
Salvation » Saints » Daily approach nearer to
Now this [is another reason for observing the law of love]: You should know that it is about time to wake up out of your [spiritual] sleep, because [the day of our final] salvation is now nearer to us than when we first believed [in Christ].
Salvation » Saints » Clothed with
Salvation » Saints » Are heirs of
Are not all angels ministering spirits sent out [by God] to serve those people who will inherit salvation?
Salvation » Saints » Receive, as the end of their faith
Salvation » Saints » Kept by the power of God unto
Through God's power you are protected by [your] faith, so that you can expect to be saved in the end.
Salvation » Saints » Pray for a joyful sense of
Salvation » Saints » Beautified with
Salvation » Saints » Love
Salvation » Saints » Pray for assurance of
Salvation » Saints » Have, through grace
For we believe that [both] we [Jews] and they [Gentiles] will be saved in the same way, through the unearned favor of the Lord Jesus."
Salvation » Saints » Satisfied by
Scorning and mocking » The wicked indulge in, against » Saints
The scriptures » Saints » Plead the promises of, in prayer
The scriptures » Saints » Love exceedingly
The scriptures » Saints » Pray to be taught
The scriptures » Saints » Hope in
The scriptures » Saints » Meditate in
The scriptures » Saints » Obey
But He replied to them, "My mother and my brothers are those people who hear God's word and obey it."
I have revealed your name [i.e., your power and character] to the men you gave me out of the world [i.e., the apostles]. They belonged to you, but you gave them to me, and they have obeyed your word.
The scriptures » Saints » Rejoice in
The scriptures » Saints » Stand in awe of
The scriptures » Saints » Pray to be conformed to
The scriptures » Saints » Grieve when men disobey
The scriptures » Saints » Esteem, as a light
The scriptures » Saints » Regard, as sweet
The scriptures » Saints » Speak of
The scriptures » Saints » Hide, in their hearts
The scriptures » Saints » Keep, in remembrance
The scriptures » Saints » Long after
The scriptures » Saints » Trust in
The scriptures » Saints » Esteem, above all things
The scriptures » Saints » Delight in
The second coming of Christ » Saints » Should watch for
But you should be alert at all times, offering earnest prayers, so that you will be strong enough to escape all these things that will happen, and to appear [acceptable] in front of the Son of man [on that day]."
So, be alert, because you do not know when the owner of the house will return, whether [some] evening, at midnight, at dawn, or at [mid-] morning. [Be alert], for he might come unexpectedly and find you asleep. And what I am telling you, I am telling everyone. Be alert "
The second coming of Christ » Saints » Wait for
And [they tell how you are] waiting for His Son [to come] from heaven, the One He raised up from the dead --- this Jesus, who rescues us from the coming wrath [of God].
so that you are not lacking in any [spiritual] gift, while you wait for our Lord Jesus Christ to be revealed [i.e., at His second coming].
The second coming of Christ » Saints » Should be patient unto
So, be patient, brothers, until the Lord comes. Look, the farmer waits for his land to produce the valuable crop and is patient with it until it receives the fall and spring rains. [So], you people should be patient also; strengthen your hearts because the Lord's coming is near [Note: This may refer to the destruction of Jerusalem in AD 70, or to Christ's final coming and judgment].
And may the Lord direct your hearts to love [people] as God does, and to be steadfast as Christ was.
The second coming of Christ » Saints » Look for
while looking forward to the blessed hope [i.e., the hope that produces blessings] and the coming splendor of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ.
But we are [really] citizens of heaven and we are waiting for a Savior [to return] from there, the Lord Jesus Christ,
The second coming of Christ » Saints » Should be ready for
So, you also should be ready, for the Son of man will return at a time when you least expect Him."
Therefore, you also should be ready, for the Son of man will come at a time when you least expect Him.
The second coming of Christ » Saints » Pray for
The One who testifies about these things [i.e., Jesus] says, "Yes, I am coming soon." May this be so. Come [ahead] Lord Jesus!
The second coming of Christ » Saints » Love
So, now there is a crown of righteousness reserved for me, which the Lord, who is a just Judge, will award me on that day [i.e., the judgment day], and not to me only, but also to everyone who has loved [the prospect of] His appearing.
The second coming of Christ » Saints » Haste unto
[while] looking forward to, and earnestly desiring the day of God to come, when the heavens will be set ablaze and dissolved by fire and the elements [See verse 10] will melt with intense heat.
The second coming of Christ » Saints » Assured of
Seeking God » Saints » Earnest in
Seeking God » Saints » Engage in, with the whole heart
Seeking God » Saints » Early in
Seeking God » Saints » Prepare their hearts for
Seeking God » Saints » Set their hearts to
Seeking God » Saints » Specially exhorted to
Seeking God » Saints » Purpose, in heart
Seeking God » Saints » Characterized by
Seeking God » Saints » Desirous of
Sickness » Saints » Acknowledge that, comes from God
Sickness » Saints » Praise God for recovery from
Sickness » Saints » Thank God publicly for recovery from
He [then] jumped up, stood on his feet and began to walk. And [as] he entered the Temple with Peter and John he was able to walk and [even] jump, while praising God [for his complete healing].
Sickness » Saints » Pray for recovery from
Sickness » Saints » Visit those in
when I was without adequate clothing, you gave me something to wear; [when] I was sick, you came to visit me; [when] I was in prison, you came to see me.'
Sickness » Saints » Ascribe recovery from, to God
Sickness » Saints » Mourn under, with prayer
Sickness » Saints » Feel for others in
Sickness » Saints » Are resigned under
Sin » Saints » Dead to
Jesus took upon Himself our sins [when] His body was placed upon the cross so that we, [through] dying to [i.e., giving up] the sinful life, would live for righteousness. You were healed [from your sins] by His being brutally treated.
So, you [too] should consider yourselves dead to sin [i.e., no longer under its power], but [spiritually] alive to God, in [fellowship with] Christ.
Certainly not! How can we, who died to sin [i.e., stopped living under its power], go on living in it [i.e., practicing it] any longer?
Sin » Saints » Have yet the remains of, in them
but I see a different law [at work] in my body, waging [spiritual] warfare against the law in my mind. It brings me into captivity to the law of sin in my body.
So, now I am not [really] the one doing this, but [it is] sin which is living in me.
Sin » Saints » Abhor themselves on account of
Sin » Saints » Cannot live in
We know that every person who has been [spiritually] conceived [by God and eventually born] does not continue in [a life of] sin, but God's one and only conceived [Son] keeps him [from continuing to sin], and the evil one [i.e., Satan] does not continue to touch him [i.e., continue to control his life].
No one who has been [spiritually] conceived [and eventually born] by God continues to live a sinful life, because God's seed [i.e., His word, See Luke 8:11] continues to live in his heart, so he cannot [continue a life of] sin, because he has been conceived by God.
Sin » Saints » Profess to have ceased from
Therefore, since Christ has suffered physically, you people should fortify yourselves with the same attitude He had. For the person who has suffered physically [i.e., in standing for Christ] has quit sinning.
Sin » Saints » Ashamed of having committed
What benefit did you receive at that time from doing the things you are now ashamed of? For the end of such behavior is [spiritual] death.
Sin » Saints » Made free from
And when you were freed from [the practice of] sin, you became slaves to doing what is right.
Sin » Saints » Resolve against
Slander » Saints » Should lay aside
So, put away from you all [kinds of] bitterness and anger and wrath and brawling and slander, along with all [kinds of] malice [i.e., bad attitudes],
Therefore, you should put out of your lives all malice [i.e., bad attitudes], and all deceit and hypocrisy, and all envy and unwholesome talk.
Slander » Saints » Should give no occasion for
May your conscience be able to so approve of your conduct that, even if you are ridiculed, those doing it will [eventually] have to be ashamed [of themselves] for criticizing your Christian behavior.
You should live such good lives before [unconverted] Gentiles, so that even though they accuse you of being evildoers, by seeing your good deeds, they will [be led to] honor God [for you] on the day He visits us again [i.e., to bring judgment].
Slander » Saints » Should keep their tongue from
For [Psalm 39:12 says], "The person who loves [his] life and wants to have happy days, should avoid saying anything bad or deceptive.
Slander » Saints » Characterized as avoiding
Slander » Saints » Should return good for
[though] we are slandered, we reply kindly. We have become [like] the scum of the earth, the dregs of all society, to this day.
Slander » Saints » Blessed in enduring
You will be blessed when people speak against you and harm you and say bad things about you that are untrue, because of [your devotion to] me.
Slander » Saints » Should be warned against
Remind the people [where you minister] to be in subjection to [civic] rulers, [governmental] authorities, to be obedient [to them], to be prepared for [doing] every good deed, to slander no one, to be peaceful, to be considerate [or, "gentle"] and to show every courtesy to all people.
Thanksgiving » Saints » Exhorted to
You should let the peace given by Christ rule in your hearts, since you people were called [to be at peace] in one body [i.e., the church]; and you should be thankful.
Thanksgiving » Saints » Resolved to offer
Thanksgiving » Saints » Abound in the faith with
rooted and built up in [your relationship to] Him, established by your faith [or, "in the faith"], just as you were taught, overflowing with thanksgiving.
Thanksgiving » Saints » Offer sacrifices of
Thanksgiving » Saints » Should enter God's gate with
Thanksgiving » Saints » Habitually offer
Thanksgiving » Saints » Magnify God by
Thanksgiving » Saints » Come before God with
The Devil » Saints » Tempted by
[So], for this reason, when I could not stand it any longer, I also sent [Timothy] to find out about your faith. I was afraid that somehow the tempter [i.e., Satan] had tempted you [to give up] and that our work [on your behalf] will have become useless.
The Devil » Saints » Overcome
I am writing to you fathers, because you have known Him [i.e., Christ], [who has existed] from the beginning [See John 1:1]. I am writing to you young men, because you have overcome the [power of the] evil one [i.e., through faith they had gained victory over Satan, See 5:4].
And I heard a loud voice in heaven saying, "The salvation and the power and the kingdom of our God, and the authority of His Christ, have [all] now come. For the one who accuses our brothers in front of God day and night has been thrown out [of heaven]. And they [i.e., the brothers. See 6:9-11] gained the victory over Satan by the blood of the Lamb, and by [remaining true to] the message of their testimony. And they did not love their lives [so much that they refused] to die [for their faith].
The Devil » Saints » Should resist
So, you should submit yourselves to God, but oppose the devil, and he will flee from you.
You should withstand his efforts by maintaining a strong faith [in God], remembering that your [Christian] brothers in [the rest of] the world are experiencing [and enduring] suffering similar to yours.
The Devil » Saints » Afflicted by, only as God permits
The Devil » Saints » Should be watchful against
[I do this] so that Satan cannot take advantage of us, for we are not unaware of his schemes.
The Devil » Saints » Should be armed against
You people should put on the full armor of God, so that you will be able to withstand the devil's schemes. For our struggle is not [actually] against human beings, but against rulers and authorities and leaders of this world's darkness, and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. [Note: "Heavenly realms" here refers to the struggle against Satanic powers which permeates life around us]. Therefore, put on the full armor of God, so that you can withstand [the devil, See verse 11] when the evil day comes. And, after you have done everything you can, still remain standing firm [in the faith]. read more.
So, you people should stand firm [in the faith], with the belt of truth firmly buckled around you, and with the "flack jacket" of righteousness on your chest. And put on your shoes, ready to [go and] spread the Gospel of peace. And along with everything else, take up the shield of faith, with which you will be able to extinguish all the fire-tipped arrows of the evil one.
The Devil » Saints » Shall finally triumph over
And the God, who brings peace, will soon crush Satan under your feet [i.e., bring an end to the divisive work of the false teachers there]. May the unearned favor of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you.
The Devil » Saints » Sifted by
"Simon, Simon [i.e., Peter], Satan has earnestly requested the right to sift you like wheat. [Note: Grain was sifted by using a sieve-like device in which grain and particles of dirt and straw were shaken together, allowing the grain to fall through while the dirt and straw remained. This was an allusion to the agitating trials Peter was soon to endure, and survive].
The favor of God » Saints » Obtain
The favor of God » Saints » Exalted in
The favor of God » Saints » Sometimes tempted to doubt
The favor of God » Saints » Victorious through
The favor of God » Saints » Encompassed by
The favor of God » Saints » Strengthened by
The favor of God » Saints » Preserved through
Theft » Saints » Warned against
[However], you should not have to suffer for murdering, stealing, doing evil or interfering in the affairs of others.
The person who has stolen must stop doing it; instead, he should work hard, doing something worthwhile with his own hands, so that he can have [money] to share with the person who needs it.
Union with Christ » Saints » Have, in love
Union with Christ » Saints » Exhorted to maintain
When he got there and saw how God was favoring the people [with salvation] he was very happy and [stayed on and] encouraged everyone to remain close to the Lord with a heartfelt purpose.
Remain united to me, and I will remain united to you. Just as a branch cannot bear fruit by itself, unless it remains united to the vine, so neither can you people [bear fruit] unless you remain united to me.
rooted and built up in [your relationship to] Him, established by your faith [or, "in the faith"], just as you were taught, overflowing with thanksgiving.
Union with Christ » Saints » Have, in mind
You should think about things the way Christ Jesus did.
[Isa. 40:13 says], "For who knows [what is in] the Lord's mind? And who is capable of instructing Him? But we have the mind of Christ. [Note: The "we" may refer to the apostles, who had the gift of inspiration (See verse 12), or to all Christians who have spiritual discernment].
Union with Christ » Saints » Have, in sufferings
If we endure [i.e., remain faithful through suffering], we will also rule with Him [i.e., both here and hereafter]. If we deny Him, He will also deny us. [See Matt. 10:33].
I want to know Christ [as Savior] and to experience the power [produced] by His resurrection, and to share in His sufferings and become like Him in His death,
Union with Christ » Saints » Identified with Christ by
And the King will answer them and say, 'Truly I tell you, since you did all this for one of my least [significant] brothers, you did it for me.'
Then the Lord will answer them, 'Truly I tell you, since you did not do it for one of these least [significant brothers of mine], you did not do it for me.'
Union with Christ » Saints » Have, in his death
I have been crucified [i.e., died] with Christ, and so I am not the one who lives [anymore] but rather, it is Christ who lives in my heart. And [now] my entire life is being lived by trusting in the Son of God [to save and keep me], because He loved me and gave Himself up for me.
Or, do you not know that all of us who were immersed into Christ Jesus were immersed into His death? Therefore, we were buried with Him through [our] immersion [in water] into [a relationship with] His death, so that, just like Christ was raised up from the dead through the glorious power of the Father, so we also can [be raised up from the water to] live a new life. For, if we have become united with Christ in an act similar to His death [i.e., by being buried in water], we will also be [united with Him] in an act similar to His resurrection from the dead [i.e., our rising from the water to live a new life]. read more.
We know that our old self was [figuratively] crucified with Christ, in order that the body of sin [i.e., our whole life of sin] might be destroyed [i.e., become powerless to control our actions and thoughts], so that we should not be enslaved to the practice of sin any longer. For a dead person is freed from [the control of] sin. Now if we have died with Christ [i.e., to the practice of sin], we believe we will also live with Him. [Note: This "living" probably refers to our spiritual relationship with Him during our Christian life].
Union with Christ » Saints » Enjoy, in the lord's supper
Does not the "cup of blessing," which we bless, signify a fellowship with Christ's [physical] blood? [Note: This was the cup used at the close of the Passover meal and was called this because of the prayer of thanksgiving offered for it. Paul refers to such a prayer in connection with its use in the Lord's Supper]. Does not the bread that we break signify a fellowship with Christ's [physical] body? Inasmuch as there is one loaf of bread that we all share, we who are many make up one body [of believers].
Union with Christ » Saints » Have, in spirit
But the person who is joined to the Lord is one spirit [with Him]. [Note: Just as the person who has sex with someone enters a close physical union with that person, so the person who becomes a Christian enters a close spiritual union with Christ].
Union with Christ » Saints » Are complete through
and you people have been made full [i.e., spiritually complete] in [fellowship with] Him, who is the [spiritual] head over all who rule and have authority.
Union with Christ » Saints » Have assurance of
When that day comes [i.e., after His ascension ?], you will know that I am in [fellowship with] the Father, and that you are in [fellowship with] me, and that I am in you [i.e., through the Holy Spirit].
Vanity » Saints » Pray to be kept from
Vanity » Saints » Hate the thoughts of
Vanity » Saints » Avoid those given to
Vanity » Saints » Avoid
Warfare of saints » Saints » Encouraged in
[But], you people are [followers] of God, little children [i.e., dear ones], and you have overcome them [i.e., these false teachers] because He who is in your lives [i.e., the Holy Spirit, See 3:24] is greater [i.e., more powerful] than he who is in [i.e., dominates] the world [i.e., Satan. See II Cor. 4:4].
Warfare of saints » Saints » Strengthened by God in
Warfare of saints » Saints » Strengthened by Christ in
But the Lord stood by me and strengthened me, so that through me the message could be fully proclaimed and that all the Gentiles could hear it. And I was rescued from the lion's mouth. [Note: This is probably a figure of speech indicating that Paul had escaped some immediate danger. See Psa. 22:20-21].
But God said to me, "My unearned favor is enough for you, for my power is made complete in [your] weakness." Therefore, I will most gladly boast, so that the power of Christ can rest on me.
Warfare of saints » Saints » Thank God for victory in
Thank God [that I can be rescued] through [the power of] Jesus Christ our Lord. So then, I personally [try to] serve God's law with my mind, but [all too often] I serve the law of sin with my flesh [i.e., submitting in weakness to my human desires].
But I thank God for giving us victory [i.e., over sin and death] through our Lord Jesus Christ.
Warfare of saints » Saints » Helped by God in
Warfare of saints » Saints » Exhorted to diligence in
Fight the good battle of the faith; take hold of never ending life, to which you were called [i.e., by the Gospel. See II Thess. 2:14], [when] you made the good confession in the presence of many witnesses. [Note: This "confession" probably refers to a person's acknowledgment of Jesus as Lord and Christ prior to his immersion. See Acts 2:36; Rom. 10:9-10].
Dearly loved ones, as I was very eagerly planning to write to you about the salvation we share in common, I felt it necessary [instead] to write urging you to contend earnestly for the faith [i.e., the teaching of Christ] which was once and for all delivered [by the apostles, See verse 17] to the saints [i.e., God's holy people].
Warfare of saints » Saints » Comforted by God in
For even when we came to Macedonia we had no rest for our bodies. But we met with trouble on every hand. [There were] conflicts on the outside and fears within us. But God, who comforts downhearted people, comforted us [also] by the arrival of Titus.
Warfare of saints » Saints » Must stand firm in
Therefore, put on the full armor of God, so that you can withstand [the devil, See verse 11] when the evil day comes. And, after you have done everything you can, still remain standing firm [in the faith]. So, you people should stand firm [in the faith], with the belt of truth firmly buckled around you, and with the "flack jacket" of righteousness on your chest.
Warfare of saints » Saints » Are all engaged in
[So], you are now experiencing the same struggle you [once] saw me going through, and now are hearing that I still am.
Warfare of saints » Saints » Delivered by Christ in
The Lord will [continue to] rescue me from all harm and will bring me safely into His heavenly kingdom. May He be praised forever and ever. May it be so.
Warfare of saints » Saints » Protected by God in
Widow's » Saints » Disappoint not
Widow's » Saints » Cause joy to
Widow's » Saints » Relieve
So, Peter got up and went with them. When he arrived they took him to the upstairs room [where Dorcas' body lay]. All the widows [i.e., her friends] stood near Peter, crying and showing [him] the coats and [other] clothing which Dorcas had made when she was alive.
Works, good » Saints » Should be careful to maintain
This saying is trustworthy and I want you [in your teaching] to affirm these things with confidence, so that those people who have trusted God will be careful to devote themselves to doing good deeds. These things [i.e., just mentioned] are good and profitable for people [to do].
Our people [i.e., the Christians there on Crete] also should learn to practice good deeds for meeting pressing needs, so that they can be productive [in the Lord's work].
Works, good » Saints » Should be established in
Works, good » Saints » Exhorted to put on
So, as God's elect [i.e., His people], holy and dearly loved [by Him], clothe yourselves with a heart of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Tolerate one another's [weaknesses] and forgive each other if anyone [of you] has a complaint against someone else. You should forgive people just as the Lord forgave you. And beyond all these things, clothe yourselves with love, which binds these things together in complete [unity].
Works, good » Saints » Should abound to all
And God is able to provide you with abundant gifts, so that you will always have plenty of everything, and that you will also have plenty for doing every good deed.
Works, good » Saints » Followed into rest by their
Then I heard a voice from heaven saying, "Write [this]: Those who are [now] dead, who died in [fellowship with] the Lord, are blessed from now on. Yes, says the Holy Spirit, they will rest from their work, for [the record of] their deeds will follow them [i.e., into the next life]."
Works, good » Saints » Should be fruitful in
[We pray for you] to live a life deserving of the Lord, pleasing to Him in every way, producing fruit in every good deed and growing in the knowledge of God.
Works, good » Saints » Should be furnished unto all
Works, good » Saints » Should be prepared unto all
If a person rids himself of the common ones [i.e., the influences of evil people and qualities], he will be an instrument for [God's] honor, dedicated, suitable for use by the Master, [and] prepared for [doing] every good deed.
Works, good » Saints » Should avoid ostentation in
"Be careful that you do not do your good deeds in front of people for the purpose of being seen by them, for [if you do] you will not have a reward from your Father in heaven. "Therefore, when you give money to help poor people, do not blow a trumpet in front of you [i.e., to call attention to it] as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and streets. They do this in order to win praise from people. It is true when I say to you, they have [already] received their reward. But when you give money to help poor people, do not allow your left hand to know what your right hand is doing [i.e., do it inconspicuously] read more.
so that your giving to poor people may be done secretly. Then your Father, who sees what is done secretly, will pay you back. "And when you pray, do not be like the hypocrites who love to stand and pray in the synagogues and on street corners [i.e., in prominent view of everyone] in order to be seen [and praised] by people. But when you pray, go to a private place and after closing the door, pray to your Father who is in a secret place, and [since] He sees in secret places, He will reward you. And when you pray, do not use worthless repetitions like the [unconverted] Gentiles, for they think their lengthy, repetitious wording [in prayer] is more likely to be heard [by God]. So, do not be like them, for your Father [already] knows what things you need, [even] before you ask Him. Therefore, you should pray this way: 'Our Father in heaven, may your name be highly honored. May your kingdom come [to earth]; may your will be done on earth just as it is [already being done] in heaven. Give us our [needed] food for the day. And forgive us of the wrongs we have done to others, since we have also forgiven the wrongs done to us. And do not allow us to fall under temptation, but deliver us from [being harmed by] the evil one.' For if you forgive the wrongs people have done [to you], your heavenly Father will also forgive the wrongs you have done [to Him]. But if you do not forgive the wrongs people have done [to you], neither will your Father forgive the wrongs you have done [to Him]. "In addition, when you fast [i.e., go without food and/or drink for religious reasons], do not be like the hypocrites with long faces, for they go around with gloomy expressions on their faces in order to advertise that they are fasting. It is true when I say to you, these people have [already] received their reward. But when you fast, groom your hair and wash your face so that people will not see that you are fasting, but [only] your Father who is in secret [will know about it]. For, [since] He sees [what is done] in secret, He will repay you.
Works, good » Saints » Created in Christ unto
For we [Christians] are the product of God's workmanship, [re-] created in [fellowship with] Christ Jesus for [the purpose of] doing good deeds. God had previously determined that this should be our practice.
Works, good » Saints » Should be rich in
[Urge them] to do what is good, to be rich in [the practice of] good deeds, to be generous and willing to share [with others].
Works, good » Saints » Should provoke each other to
And we should consider how we can stir up one another to love [more] and to perform good deeds.
Works, good » Saints » Should be perfect in
equip you with every good deed for doing God's will. [May He] work in us [to accomplish] what is very pleasing in His sight through [the power of] Jesus Christ. May there be praise to Him forever and ever. May it be so.
Works, good » Saints » Should manifest, with meekness
Who [then] is the wise and understanding person among you? He should show by his good conduct [that he has] deeds of gentleness [stemming] from wisdom.
Works, good » Saints » Are zealous of
He gave Himself up for us, to buy us back from [enslavement to] all [kinds of] wickedness and to purify for Himself a group of people who belong to Him and who are eager to do good deeds.
Works, good » Saints » Bring to the light their
But the person who does what is [according to the] truth [i.e., good things] comes to the light so that his deeds may be shown to have been produced by God.
Works, good » Saints » Should be ready to all
Remind the people [where you minister] to be in subjection to [civic] rulers, [governmental] authorities, to be obedient [to them], to be prepared for [doing] every good deed,
Works, good » Saints » Being Full of
Now at Joppa [Note: This was also a town on the west coast of Palestine, today called "Jaffa," and is now a part of Tel Aviv] there was a certain disciple named Tabitha (she was also called Dorcas, which means "Gazelle"). She practiced many good deeds and always gave money to poor people.
Topics on Saints
Afflicted Saints
2 Corinthians 1:4-5He comforts us in all our troubles so that we will be able to comfort those who are in any [kind of] trouble, through the comfort we ourselves have received from Him.
Afflicted Saints, Examples Of
Hebrews 11:25but chose rather to suffer mistreatment with God's people [i.e., the Israelites] than to enjoy the pleasures of sin for a brief time.
All Believers Are Saints
Romans 1:7All of you there in Rome [i.e., the church there] are also among such obedient believers. You are called Jesus Christ's [people], loved by God and called to be His holy people. May you have unearned favor and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.
Ascension Of Saints
Hebrews 11:5By [having] faith, Enoch was taken [to be with God], so that he did not have to die. And he could not be found because God had taken him away. For he had been commended [by God] before he was taken away, that he had pleased God. [Note: The Hebrew of Gen. 5:24 says, "he walked with God"].
Character Of Saints
Romans 16:19For everyone has heard about your obedience [to the truth], and [because of this], I am very happy over you. But I want you to be wise about what is good and innocent about what is evil.
Communion Of Saints
Luke 22:32But I prayed earnestly for you, that your faith would not fail [to be strong]. And when you have turned back [i.e., from going astray briefly], provide [spiritual] support to your brothers."
Death Of The Saints
1 Corinthians 15:18Then [also], those who have died in [fellowship with] Christ are lost.
Death Of The Saints, Examples Of
Luke 23:43Then Jesus said to him, "Truly I tell you, today you will be with me in Paradise [Note: This is a place in God's presence, referred to as "the third heaven" (II Cor. 12:2-4), and where overcomers will be able to eat from "the tree of life" (Rev. 2:7)]."
Death Of The Saints, Results In
Revelation 14:13Then I heard a voice from heaven saying, "Write [this]: Those who are [now] dead, who died in [fellowship with] the Lord, are blessed from now on. Yes, says the Holy Spirit, they will rest from their work, for [the record of] their deeds will follow them [i.e., into the next life]."
Glorified Saints
2 Thessalonians 1:10On that day Jesus will return to be honored by His saints [i.e., God's holy people] and to be marveled at [i.e., in reverence] by all those who had believed [in Him]. [This will happen] because you have believed our testimony to you [about Christ].
Hated Saints
Matthew 24:9At that time people will turn you over [to the authorities] for persecution and will [even] kill you. And people from all countries will hate you for being loyal to me.
Holiness Of The Saints
Romans 8:29For [that class of] persons whom God knew beforehand He also predetermined to become conformed to the [spiritual] likeness of His Son, so that He could be the firstborn One among [His] many brothers [i.e., so He could be the preeminent example to all His followers. See Heb. 2:11].
Hope, of The Saints
Ephesians 4:4There is [only] one body [i.e., church] and one Holy Spirit, just as God also gave you one hope when He called you [See Titus 3:7].
Love Of Jesus, To The Saints
2 Corinthians 5:14For Christ's love for us motivates us, because we have concluded that, [since] one person [i.e., Christ] died for all people, so then all people have died. [Note: This may mean simply that Christ died for all people, who were dead in their sins].
Martyrdom Of The Saints
Matthew 10:21[At that time] a person will turn his brother over to be killed, and the father [will do the same to] his child. And children will rebel against their parents and turn them over to be killed.
Privileges of saints
2 Corinthians 8:4[even] pleading with us and requesting the privilege of taking part in this service to the saints [i.e., God's holy people] in Jerusalem. [See also 9:1-15; I Cor. 16:1-2; Rom. 15:25-28].
Saints, As Pilgrims
Luke 9:58Jesus replied to him, "The foxes have dens [in which to live] and the birds of the sky have nests [in which to roost], but the Son of man does not have anywhere to lay His head."
Saints, Care For The Poor
2 Corinthians 9:9As it is written [Psa. 112:9], "He has distributed [gifts] widely; he has given to poor people; his generosity will last forever."
Saints, Communion With God
Philippians 1:23So, I am in a dilemma between the two choices. [On the one hand] I have the desire to depart [from this life] and be with Christ [in heaven], which would be far better.
Suffering Saints
1 Peter 4:19Therefore, those who [are allowed to] suffer in harmony with God's [permissive] will, should commit their souls to a trustworthy Creator, [who will take everything into account], while they go on [trying] to do what is right.
Temporary Affliction Of Saints
2 Corinthians 4:17For our insignificant troubles [here on earth], which last only a short time, are producing for us an immeasurable, never ending [counter-] weight of splendor [i.e., in heaven. See Rom. 8:18].
The Saints, Without Offence
Philippians 1:10Then you will be able to approve of [only] what is best and be sincere and without just blame on the day of Christ's [return],
Tribulation Saints
1 Thessalonians 1:10And [they tell how you are] waiting for His Son [to come] from heaven, the One He raised up from the dead --- this Jesus, who rescues us from the coming wrath [of God].
