50 Bible Verses about Religion
Most Relevant Verses
But without faith it is impossible to please him: For he that cometh to God, must believe that God is, and that he is a rewarder of them that seek him.
And Abram believed the LORD, and it was counted to him for righteousness.
And when the people were come into their tents, the elders of Israel said, "Wherefore hath the LORD beaten us this day before the Philistines? Let us fetch the ark of the covenant of the LORD, out of Shiloh unto us, and let it come among us and save us out of the hands of our enemies." And the people sent to Shiloh, and fetched from thence the ark of the covenant of the LORD of Hosts which dwelleth between the Cherubims. And there were the two sons of Eli, Hophni and Phinehas with the ark of the covenant of God. And when the ark of the covenant of the LORD came into the host, all Israel shouted a mighty shout, so that the earth rang again.read more.
When the Philistines heard the noise of the shout they said, "What meaneth the sound of this mighty shout in the host of the Hebrews?" And they understood how that the ark of the LORD was come into the host. And the Philistines were afraid, when it was told how that God was come into the host and said, "Woe unto us, for it was never so before this. Woe unto us, who shall deliver us out of the hand of this mighty God? This is the God that smote the Egyptians with all manner of plagues in the wilderness.
Then said the servants of the kings of Syria to him, "The gods of the hills are their gods, and therefore they had the better of us. But let us fight with them in the plain, and for what ye will, we shall have the better of them.
And the people of Nineveh believed God, and proclaimed fasting, and arrayed themselves in sackcloth, as well the great as the small of them.
Believest thou that there is one God? Thou doest well. The devils also believe and tremble.
And the men feared the LORD exceedingly: and sacrificed sacrifice unto the LORD: and vowed vows.
And as he was in his devotion kneeling in the house of Nisroch his God, Adrammelech and Sharezer smote him with the sword. And they escaped into the land of Ararat, and Esarhaddon his son reigned in his stead.
Afterward it chanced, as he prayed in the temple of Nisroch his god, that Adrammelech and Sharezer, his own sons, slew him with the sword, and fled into the land of Ararat. And Esarhaddon his son reigned after him.
But whatsoever goeth out of our own mouth, that will we do: We will do sacrifice, and offer oblations unto the Queen of heaven: like as we and our forefathers, our kings and our heads have done in the cities of Judah, and in the streets and fields of Jerusalem. For then had we plenteousness of victuals, then were we in prosperity, and no misfortune came upon us. But since we left off to offer and to do sacrifice unto the Queen of heaven, we have had scarceness of all things, and perish with the sword and hunger. Last of all, when we women did sacrifice and offered unto the Queen of heaven, did we make her cakes and pour unto her drink offerings, to do her service, without our husbands' wills?"
Paul stood in the midst of Mars Street and said, "Ye men of Athens, I perceive that in all things ye are too superstitious. For as I passed by and beheld the manner how ye worship your gods, I found an altar wherein was written, Unto the unknown God. Whom ye then ignorantly worship, him show I unto you:
For the Pharisees, and all the Jews, except they wash their hands often, eat not; observing the traditions of the elders. And when they come from the market, except they wash themselves they eat not. And many other things there be, which they have taken upon them to observe, as the washing of cups and cruses, and of brazen vessels, and of tables.
And Aaron said unto them, "Pluck off the golden earrings which are in the ears of your wives, your sons and of your daughters: and bring them unto me." And all the people plucked off the golden earrings that were in their ears, and brought them unto Aaron. And he received them of their hands and fashioned it with a graver and made it a calf of molten metal. And they said, "This is thy God, O Israel, which brought thee out of the land of Egypt."read more.
And when Aaron saw that, he made an altar before it, and made a proclamation saying, "Tomorrow shall be holy day unto the LORD." And they rose up in the morning and offered burnt offerings, and brought offerings of atonement also. And then they sat them down to eat and drink, and rose up again to play.
Then said Elijah unto the people, "I only remain of the LORD's Prophets, and Baal's Prophets are four hundredth and fifty. Let two oxen be given us, and let them choose the one and cut him in pieces and lay him on wood, and put no fire under. And I will dress the other and put him on wood, and will put no fire under. And call ye on the name of your God, and I will call on the name of the LORD. And then the God that answereth by fire, he is the very God." And all the people said, "It is well spoken."read more.
Then said Elijah unto the Prophets of Baal, "Choose you an ox and dress him first - for ye are many - and call on the name of your God, but put no fire under." And they took the ox that was given them and dressed it, and called on the name of Baal from morning to noon saying, "O Baal, hear us!" But there was no voice nor answer. And they leapt about the altar that they had made. And at noon Elijah mocked them, and said, "Call loud, for he is a god: but he is talking, or occupied, or in the way, or haply he sleepeth, that he may awake!" And they cried loud and cut themselves, as their manner was, with knives and lances, till the blood flowed on them. And when midday was passed, they prophesied until it was time to offer. But there was neither voice nor answer nor any that regarded them.
And every priest is ready daily ministering, and often times offereth one manner of offering, which can never take away sins:
And of the residue he maketh him a god, and an Idol for himself. He kneeleth before it, he worshippeth it, he prayeth unto it, and sayeth, "Deliver me, for thou art my god!"
And they took the ox that was given them and dressed it, and called on the name of Baal from morning to noon saying, "O Baal, hear us!" But there was no voice nor answer. And they leapt about the altar that they had made.
Let them be gathered and come together, let them draw nigh hither, that are escaped of the people: Have they any understanding, that set up the stocks of their Idols, and praise unto a god, that cannot help them?
And she had been a widow about four score and four years of age, which went never out of the temple, but served God there with fasting and prayer night and day.
When he looked on him, he was afraid, and said, "What is it Lord?" He said unto him, "Thy prayers and thy alms are come up into remembrance before God.
Thou camest down also upon mount Sinai, and spakest unto them from heaven, and gavest them right judgments, true laws, good commandments and statutes, and declared unto them thy holy Sabbath, and commandedst them precepts, ordinances, and laws, by Moses thy servant:
And the king stood by a pillar and made a covenant before the LORD that they should walk after the LORD, and keep his commandments and his witnesses and his ordinances with all their hearts and all their souls, and make good the words of the said covenant that were written in the foresaid book. And all the people consented to the covenant.
And the king stood at his standing and made a covenant before the LORD, to follow the LORD and to keep his commandments, his witnesses and his statutes with all his heart and with all his soul and to fulfill the words of the covenant written in the said book.
And behold, one came, and said unto him, Good master, what good thing shall I do, that I may have eternal life?" He said unto him, "Why callest thou me good? There is none good but one, and that is, God: But if thou wilt enter into life, keep the commandments." The other said, "Which?" And Jesus said, "Thou shalt not kill: thou shalt not break wedlock. Thou shall not steal: thou shalt not bear false witness.read more.
Honour father and mother: and thou shalt love thine neighbor as thyself." And the young man said unto him, "I have observed all these things from my youth, what lack I yet?"
And when he was come out into the way, there came one running and kneeled to him, and asked him, "Good Master, what shall I do, that I may inherit eternal life?" Jesus said to him, "Why callest thou me good? There is no man good but one, which is God. Thou knowest the commandments: break not matrimony, kill not, steal not, bear no false witness, defraud no man, honour thy father and thy mother."read more.
He answered and said to him, "Master, all these I have observed from my youth."
And a certain ruler asked him, saying, "Good Master: what ought I to do, to obtain eternal life?" Jesus said unto him, "Why callest thou me good? None is good, save God only. Thou knowest the commandments: Thou shalt not commit adultery, thou shalt not kill, thou shalt not steal, thou shalt not bear false witness; Honour thy father, and thy mother."read more.
And he said, "All of these have I kept from my youth."
Woe be to you scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites, for ye which tithe mint, anise, and cumin, and leave the weightier matters of the law undone: judgment, mercy, and faith: these ought ye to have done, and not to have left the other undone.
But woe be to you Pharisees: for ye tithe the mint, and rue, and all manner herbs; and pass over judgment, and the love of God. These ought ye to have done, and yet not to have left the other undone.
Both were perfect before God, and walked in all the laws and ordinances of the Lord, that no man could find fault with them.
Then led they Jesus from Caiaphas into the hall of judgment. It was in the morning, and they themselves went not into the judgment hall lest they should be defiled, but that they might eat the paschal lamb.
If any man among you seem devout, and refrain not his tongue: but deceive his own heart, this man's devotion is in vain.
Pure devotion, and undefiled before God the father, is this: To visit the friendless, and widows in their adversity, and to keep himself unspotted of the world.
Circumcision is nothing, uncircumcision is nothing: but the keeping of the commandments of God is altogether.
Then said Jesus, "Are ye yet without an understanding? Perceive ye not, that whatsoever goeth in at the mouth, descendeth down into the belly, and is cast out into the draught? But those things which proceed out of the mouth come from the heart, and they defile the man.read more.
For out of the heart come evil thoughts, murder, breaking of wedlock, whoredom, theft, false witness-bearing, blasphemy. These are the things which defile a man. But to eat with unwashen hands, defileth not a man."
and he said unto them, "Are ye so without understanding? Do ye not yet perceive, that whatsoever thing from without entereth into a man, it cannot defile him, because it entereth not into his heart, but into the belly: and goeth out into the draught that purgeth out all meats." And he said, "That defileth a man which cometh out of a man.read more.
For from within even out of the heart of men, proceed evil thoughts: adultery, fornication, murder, theft, covetousness, wickedness, deceit, uncleanness, and a wicked eye, blasphemy, pride, foolishness: All these evil things come from within, and defile a man."
And to love him with all the heart, and with all the mind, and with all the soul, and with all the strength. And to love a man's neighbor as himself, is a greater thing than all burnt offerings and sacrifices."
And the Lord said to him, "Now do ye, O Pharisees, make clean the outside of the cup, and of the platter: but your inward parts are full of ravening and wickedness. Ye fools: did not he that made that which is without, make that which is within also? Nevertheless, ye give alms of that ye have, and behold: all is clean to you.
For I bear them record, that they have a fervent mind to Godward, but not according to knowledge. For they are ignorant of the righteousness which is allowed before God, and go about to establish their own righteousness: and therefore, are not obedient unto the righteousness which is of value before God. For Christ is the end of the law to justify all that believe.
For the kingdom of God is not meat and drink, but righteousness, peace and joy, in the holy ghost.
If any widow have children or nephews, let them learn first to rule their own houses godly, and to recompense their elders. For that is good and acceptable before God.
And Jesus said unto him, "If thou wilt be perfect, go and sell that thou hast, and give it to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come and follow me."
Jesus beheld him, and had a favour to him, and said unto him, "One thing is lacking unto thee. Go, and sell all that thou hast, and give it to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come and follow me, and take up thy cross on thee."
When Jesus heard that, he said unto him, "Yet lackest thou one thing. Sell all that thou hast, and distribute it unto the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven; and come, and follow me."
For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, unto the which God ordained us before, that we should walk in them.
What availeth it, my brethren, though a man say he hath faith, when he hath no deeds? Can faith save him? If a brother or a sister be naked or destitute of daily food, and one of you say unto them, "Depart in peace, God send you warmness and food," notwithstanding ye give them not those things which are needful to the body: what helpeth it them?read more.
Even so faith, if it have no deeds, is dead in itself.
From Thematic Bible
Religion » TRUE
Then Peter opened his mouth, and said, "Of a truth I perceive, that God is not partial: but in all people, he that feareth him and worketh righteousness, is accepted with him.
Pure devotion, and undefiled before God the father, is this: To visit the friendless, and widows in their adversity, and to keep himself unspotted of the world.
But ye, dearly beloved, edify yourselves in your most holy faith, praying in the holy ghost, and keep yourselves in the love of God, looking for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ, unto eternal life.
And hereunto, give all diligence: In your faith, minister virtue; and in virtue, knowledge; and in knowledge, temperance; and in temperance, patience; in patience, godliness; in godliness, brotherly kindness; in brotherly kindness, love. read more.
For if these things be among you, and are plenteous, they will make you that ye neither shall be idle nor unfruitful in the knowledge of the our Lord Jesus Christ. But he that lacketh these things is blind and gropeth for the way with his hand, and hath forgotten that he was purged from his old sins.
"Master, which is the chief commandment in the law?" Jesus said unto him, "'Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thine heart, with all thy soul, and with all thy mind.' This is the first and that chief commandment. read more.
And there is another like unto this: 'Thou shalt love thine neighbor as thyself.' In these two commandments, hang all the law and the prophets."
Religion » Formalism » The insufficiency of
Then said Samuel, "Hath the LORD as great pleasure in burnt sacrifices and offerings, as he hath that thou shouldest obey his voice? Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice, and to give heed is better than the fat of rams.
For I have pleasure in loving-kindness, and not in offering: Yea in the knowledge of God, more than in burnt sacrifice.
with meats only and drinks, and divers washings, and justifyings of the flesh, which were ordained until the time of reformation.
Circumcision is nothing, uncircumcision is nothing: but the keeping of the commandments of God is altogether.
Religion » Characteristics of » False profession
These come unto thee, after the manner of a great people: yea, my people sit down before thee, and hear thy words, but they do not thereafter: for in their mouths they show themselves, as though they were fervent, but their heart goeth after their own covetous lucre. And as a ballad that hath a sweet tune, and is pleasant to sing, so shalt thou be unto them: thy words shall they hear, but they will not do thereafter.
They confess that they know God: but with the deeds they deny him and are abominable, and disobedient, and unto all good works discommendable.
"Not all they that say unto me, 'Lord, Lord,' shall enter in to the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth my father's will which is in heaven.
Venomous lips and a wicked heart are like a potsherd covered with silver dross.
Religion » Formalism » Warnings against
having a similitude of godly living, but have denied the power thereof. Such abhor.
Woe be to you scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites, for ye which tithe mint, anise, and cumin, and leave the weightier matters of the law undone: judgment, mercy, and faith: these ought ye to have done, and not to have left the other undone.
Wherefore, if ye be dead with Christ from ordinances of the world: Why as though ye yet lived in the world, are ye led with traditions of them that say
Therefore thus sayeth the LORD, "Forsomuch as this people, when they be in trouble, do honor me with their mouth, and with their lips, whereas their heart nevertheless is far from me; and the fear which they owe unto me, that turn they to men's laws and doctrines;
For me they seek day by day; and will know my ways, as a people that doth righteousness, and hath not forsaken the equity of their God.
Religion » Hypocrisy, an ever present element in false religion » Examples of
Then answered him the Lord and said, "Hypocrite, doth not each one of you on the Sabbath day, loose his ox, or his ass, from the stall, and lead him to the water?
This said he, not that he cared for the poor: but because he was a thief, and kept the bag, and bare that which was given.
For they that are such serve not the Lord Jesus Christ: but their own bellies. And with sweet preachings and flattering words deceive the hearts of the innocents:
Jesus perceived their wickedness, and said, "Why tempt ye me ye hypocrites?
Hypocrites, ye can skill of the fashion of the earth, and of the sky: but what is the cause, that ye cannot skill of this time?
Religion » Characteristics of » Legalism
And he said, "I am verily a man which am a Jew, born in Tarsus, a city in Cilicia: nevertheless yet brought up in this city, at the feet of Gamaliel, and informed diligently in the law of the fathers, and was fervent minded to Godward, as ye all are this same day,
The same, Paul would that he should go forth with him, and took and circumcised him because of the Jews which were in those quarters, for they knew all that his father was a Greek.
And when they heard it, they glorified the Lord, and said unto him, "Thou seest brother, how many thousand Jews there are which believe, and they are all zealous over the law.
And certain of the Pharisees said unto them, "Why do ye that which is not lawful to be done on the Sabbath days?"
and prevailed in the Jews' law, above many of my companions, which were of mine own nation, and was a much more fervent maintainer of the traditions of the elders.
Religion » Examples of piety » Sincerity a mark of
And now, fear the LORD and serve him in pureness and truth: And put away the gods which your fathers served on the other side of the water, and in Egypt, and serve the LORD.
that ye might accept things most excellent, that ye might be pure and such as should hurt no man's conscience, until the day of Christ;
Therefore let us keep holiday, not with old leaven, neither with the leaven of maliciousness and wickedness - but with the sweet bread of pureness and truth.
Our rejoicing is this: the testimony of our conscience, that in singleness of heart and with godly pureness - and not in fleshly wisdom, but by the grace of God - we have had our conversation in the world, and most of all to you-wards.
For we are not as many are, which chop and change with the word of God: but even out of pureness, and by the power of God and in the sight of God, so speak we in Christ.
Religion » True religion » Scriptural definition of
And to love him with all the heart, and with all the mind, and with all the soul, and with all the strength. And to love a man's neighbor as himself, is a greater thing than all burnt offerings and sacrifices."
For I have pleasure in loving-kindness, and not in offering: Yea in the knowledge of God, more than in burnt sacrifice.
Pure devotion, and undefiled before God the father, is this: To visit the friendless, and widows in their adversity, and to keep himself unspotted of the world.
I will show thee, O man, what is good, and what the LORD requireth of thee: Namely, to do right, to have pleasure in loving-kindness, to be lowly, and to walk with thy God.
Let us hear the conclusion of all things: Fear God, and keep his commandments, for that toucheth all men;
Religion » Hypocrisy, an ever present element in false religion » General references to
As there gathered together an innumerable multitude of people - insomuch that they trod one another - he began to say unto his disciples, "First of all, beware of the leaven of the Pharisees, which is hypocrisy.
They confess that they know God: but with the deeds they deny him and are abominable, and disobedient, and unto all good works discommendable.
and devilish doctrine of them which speak false through hypocrisy, and have their consciences marked with a hot iron,
So are ye, for outward ye appear righteous unto men, when within ye are full of hypocrisy and iniquity.
for he doth as a man that pescribeth a measure in his heart. He sayeth unto thee, "Eat and drink," whereas his heart is not with thee.
Religion » Characteristics of » Ceremonialism
But now, seeing ye know God - yea rather are known of God - how is it that ye turn again unto the weak and beggarly ceremonies, whereunto again ye desire afresh to be in bondage?
And when they come from the market, except they wash themselves they eat not. And many other things there be, which they have taken upon them to observe, as the washing of cups and cruses, and of brazen vessels, and of tables.
Now therefore, why tempt ye God, that ye would put a yoke on the disciples necks which neither our fathers nor we were able to bear?
Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free, and wrap not yourselves again in the yoke of bondage.
Wherefore, if ye be dead with Christ from ordinances of the world: Why as though ye yet lived in the world, are ye led with traditions of them that say
Religion » Natural
Nevertheless, he left not himself without witness, in that he showed his benefits, in giving us rain from heaven and fruitful seasons, filling our hearts with food and gladness."
Ask the cattle, and they shall inform thee; the fowls of the air, and they shall tell thee. Speak to the earth, and it shall show thee; or to the fishes of the sea, and they shall certify thee. What is he, but he knoweth that the hand of the LORD made all these? read more.
In whose hand is the soul of every living thing, and the breath of all men. Have not the ears pleasure in hearing, and the mouth in tasting the thing that it eateth? "Among old persons there is wisdom, and among the aged is understanding. Yea, with God is wisdom and strength - it is he that hath counsel and foreknowledge. If he break down a thing, who can set it up again? If he shut a thing, who will open it? Behold, if he withhold the waters, they dry up; If he let them go, they destroy the earth. With him is strength and wisdom: he knoweth both the deceiver and him that is deceived.
For such one never sayeth, 'Where is God that made me? And that shineth upon us, that we might praise him in the night? Which giveth us more understanding than he doth the beasts of the earth, and teacheth us more than the fouls of heaven?' If any such complain, no man giveth answer; and that because of the wickedness of proud tyrants.
{To the Chanter, a Psalm of David} The heavens declare the glory of God, and the firmament showeth his handiwork. One day telleth another, and one night certifieth another. There is neither speech nor language, but their voices are heard among them. read more.
Their sound is gone out into all lands, and their words in to the ends of the world. In them hath he set a tabernacle for the sun, which cometh forth as a bridegroom out of his chamber, and rejoiceth as a giant to run his course. It goeth forth from the uttermost part of the heaven, and runneth about unto the end of it again; and there is nothing hid from the heat thereof.
For as I passed by and beheld the manner how ye worship your gods, I found an altar wherein was written, Unto the unknown God. Whom ye then ignorantly worship, him show I unto you: God, that made the world, and all that are in it, seeing that he is Lord of heaven and earth, he dwelleth not in temples made with hands, neither is worshipped with men's hands, as though he needed of any thing. Seeing he himself giveth life and breath to all men everywhere, read more.
and hath made of one blood all nations of men, for to dwell on all the face of the earth; and hath assigned before: how long time, and also the ends of their inhabitation. That they should seek God, if they might feel and find him: though he be not far from every one of us. For in him we live, move, and have our being, as certain of your own poets said. For we are also his generation.
Religion » Inconsistency in religious life general marks of » Preaching and not practising
But when I saw that they went not the right way after the truth of the gospel, I said unto Peter, before all men, "If thou, being a Jew, livest after the manner of the gentiles, and not as do the Jews: why causest thou the gentiles to live as do the Jews?"
But thou which teachest another, teachest not thyself. Thou preachest, a man should not steal: and yet thou stealest.
Religion » Instances of outstanding religious persons » Abraham
Then the LORD said unto Abram, "Get thee out of thy country and from thy kindred; and out of thy father's house, into a land which I will show thee. And I will make of thee a mighty people, and will bless thee, and make thy name great, that thou mayst be a blessing. And I will bless them that bless thee, and curse them that curse thee. And in thee shall be blessed all the generations of the earth." read more.
And Abram went as the LORD bade him, and Lot went with him. Abram was seventy five years old, when he went out of Haran. And Abram took Sarai, his wife, and Lot, his brother's son, with all their goods which they had gotten, and souls which they had begotten in Haran. And they departed to go into the land of Canaan. And when they were come into the land of Canaan, Abram went forth into the land till he came unto a place called Shechem, and unto the oak of Moreh. And the Cananites dwelled then in the land. Then the LORD appeared unto Abram and said, "Unto thy seed will I give this land." And he built an altar there unto the LORD which appeared to him. Then departed he thence unto a mountain that lieth on the east side of Bethel and pitched his tent - Bethel being on the west side, and Ai on the east - and he built there an altar unto the LORD, and called on the name of the LORD.
And the men departed thence and went to Sodomward. But Abraham stood yet before the LORD, and drew near and said, "Wilt thou destroy the righteous with the wicked? If there be fifty righteous within the city, wilt thou destroy it and not spare the place for the sake of fifty righteous that are therein? read more.
That be far from thee, that thou shouldest do after this manner, to slay the righteous with the wicked, and that the righteous should be as the wicked: that be far from thee. Should not the Judge of all the world do according to right?" And the LORD said, "If I find in Sodom fifty righteous within the city, I will spare all the place for their sakes." And Abraham answered and said, "Behold, I have taken upon me to speak unto the LORD, and yet am but dust and ashes. What though there lack five of fifty righteous, wilt thou destroy all the city for lack of five?" And he said, "If I find there forty and five I will not destroy them." And he spake unto him yet again, and said, "What if there be forty found there?" And he said, "I will not do it for forty's sake." And he said, "O let not my LORD be angry, that I speak. What if there be found thirty there?" And he said, "I will not do it, if I find thirty there." And he said, "Oh, see, I have begun to speak unto my LORD, what if there be twenty found there?" And he said, "I will not destroy them for twenty's sake." And he said, "O let not my LORD be angry, that I speak yet, but even once more only. What if ten be found there?" And he said, "I will not destroy them for ten's sake." And the LORD went his way as soon as he had left communing with Abraham. And Abraham returned unto his place.
Religion » National » Subverted by jeroboam
And Jeroboam thought in his heart, "Now might the kingdom return to the house of David again. For if this people shall go up and do sacrifice in the house of the LORD at Jerusalem, then shall their hearts turn again unto their lord Rehoboam king of Judah. And so shall they kill me and go again to Rehoboam king of Judah." Whereupon the king took counsel and made two calves of gold and said unto the people, "Ye shall not need to go any more to Jerusalem. Behold your gods, Israel, which brought you out of the land of Egypt!" read more.
And he put the one in Bethel and the other in Dan. And that doing was a cause of sin. And the people went before the one as far as Dan. And he made houses of hill altars, and made, of the lowest of the people, priests which were not of the sons of Levi. And Jeroboam made a feast the fifteenth day of the eighth month, like unto the feast that was in Judah, and offered on the altar. And so did he in Bethel, to offer unto the calves that he had made. And he put in Bethel the priests of the hill altars, which he had made. And he offered upon the altar which he had made in Bethel, the fifteenth day of the eighth month, which he had imagined of his own heart: and made a solemn feast unto the children of Israel, and went up to the altar to burn sacrifice.
And the priests and Levites that were in all Israel resorted to him, out of all their coasts. Insomuch that the Levites left their suburbs and possessions and came to Judah and Jerusalem: for Jeroboam and his sons had cast them out from ministering unto the LORD. And he ordained him priests of hill altars - both to field devils and also to the calves which he had made.
Religion » Inconsistency in religious life general marks of » Uncharitableness
Why seest thou a mote in thy brother's eye, and perceivest not the beam that is in thine own eye?
All therefore, whatsoever they bid you observe, that observe and do: but after their works do not: for they say, and do not.
Religion » National » Priests supported by the state
But now send and gather to me all Israel unto mount Carmel; and the Prophets of Baal, four hundred and fifty; and the Prophets of the groves; four hundred, which eat of Jezebel's table.
And the priests and Levites that were in all Israel resorted to him, out of all their coasts. Insomuch that the Levites left their suburbs and possessions and came to Judah and Jerusalem: for Jeroboam and his sons had cast them out from ministering unto the LORD. And he ordained him priests of hill altars - both to field devils and also to the calves which he had made.
Religion » Inconsistency in religious life general marks of » The double tongue
He that saith, "I know him," and yet keepeth not his commandments, is a liar, and the verity is not in him.
Out of one mouth proceedeth blessing and cursing. My brethren, these things ought not so to be.
Religion » Instances of outstanding religious persons » jacob
Jacob departed from Beersheba and went toward Haran, and came unto a place and tarried there all night, because the son was down. And took a stone of the place, and put it under his head, and laid him down in the same place to sleep. And he dreamed: and behold there stood a ladder upon the earth, and the top of it reached up to heaven. And see, the angels of God went up and down upon it. read more.
Yea, and the LORD stood upon it and said, "I am the LORD God of Abraham thy father and the God of Isaac: The land which thou sleepest upon will I give thee and thy seed. And thy seed shall be as the dust of the earth: And thou shalt spread abroad: west, east, north and south. And through thee and thy seed shall all the kindreds of the earth be blessed. And see, I am with thee, and will be thy keeper in all places whither thou goest, and will bring thee again into this land: Neither will I leave thee; until I have made good all that I have promised thee." When Jacob was awaked out of his sleep, he said, "Surely the LORD is in this place, and I was not aware." And he was afraid, and said, "How fearful is this place? It is none other, but even the house of God and the gate of heaven!" And Jacob stood up early in the morning and took the stone that he had laid under his head, and pitched it up on end, and poured oil on the top of it. And he called the name of the place Bethel, for indeed the name of the city was called Luz before time. And Jacob vowed a vow, saying, "If God will be with me and will keep me in this journey which I go and will give me bread to eat, and clothes to put on, so that I come again unto my father's house in safety: then shall the LORD be my God, and this stone which I have set up on end, shall be God's house. And of all that thou shalt give me, will I give the tenth unto thee."
and tarried behind; himself alone. And there wrestled a man with him unto the breaking of the day. And when he saw that he could not prevail against him, he smote him under the thigh, and the sinew of Jacob's thigh shrank as he wrestled with him. And he said, "Let me go, for the day breaketh." And he said, "I will not let thee go, except thou bless me." read more.
And he said unto him, "What is thy name?" He answered, "Jacob." And he said, "Thou shalt be called Jacob no more, but Israel. For thou hast wrestled with God and with men and hast prevailed." And Jacob asked him, saying, "Tell me thy name." And he said, "Wherefore dost thou ask after my name?" And he blessed him there. And Jacob called the name of the place Peniel, "for I have seen God face to face, and yet is my life reserved." And as he went over Peniel, the sun rose upon him, and he halted upon his thigh. Wherefore the children of Israel eat not of the sinew that shrank under the thigh, unto this day: because that he smote Jacob under the thigh in the sinew that shrank.
Religion » Instances of outstanding religious persons » hezekiah
When Hezekiah had received the letter of the hand of the messenger and had read it, he went into the house of the LORD and laid it abroad before the LORD. And Hezekiah prayed before the LORD, and said, "LORD God of Israel which dwellest between the Cherubs, thou art God alone over all the kingdoms of the earth, and thou hast made both heaven and earth. LORD, bow thine ears and hear; Open LORD thine eyes and see: and hear the words of Sennacherib, which hath sent to rail on the living God. read more.
But of a truth, LORD, the kings of Assyria have destroyed nations and their lands, and have set fire on their gods. For they were no gods - but the work of the hands of man; even wood and stone. And therefore they destroyed them. Now therefore LORD our God, save thou us out of his hand, that all the kingdoms of the earth may know, that thou LORD art God alone."
and he did that pleased the LORD in all things, like to David his father. He put away the hill altars, and brake the images and cut down the groves, and all to brake the brazen serpent that Moses made - for unto those days the children of Israel did burn sacrifice to it, and called it Nehushtan. He trusted in the LORD God of Israel, so that after him came none like him among all the kings of Judah, neither among them that went before him. read more.
He clave to the LORD and departed not from him, but kept his commandments which the LORD commanded Moses. And the LORD was with him. And whatsoever he took in hand he did it wisely. And he rebelled against the king of Assyria and served him not.
Religion » Instances of outstanding religious persons » moses
And the angel of the LORD appeared unto him in a flame of fire out of a bush. And he perceived that the bush burned with fire, and consumed not. Then Moses said, "I will go hence and see this great sight, how it cometh that the bush burneth not." And when the LORD saw that he came for to see, he called unto him out of the bush and said, "Moses, Moses." And he answered, "Here am I." read more.
And he said, "Come not hither, but put thy shoes off thy feet: for the place whereon thou standest is holy ground." And he said, "I am the God of thy father, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac and the God of Jacob." And Moses hid his face, for he was afraid to look upon God. Then the LORD said, "I have surely seen the trouble of my people which are in Egypt, and have heard their cry, which they have of their taskmasters. For I know their sorrow, and am come down to deliver them out of the hands of the Egyptians, and to bring them out of that land unto a good land and a large, and unto a land that floweth with milk and honey: even unto the place of the Canaanites, Hittites, Amorites, Perizzites, Hivites, and of the Jebusites. Now therefore behold, the complaint of the children of Israel is come unto me and I have also seen the oppression, wherewith the Egyptians oppress them. But come, I will send thee unto Pharaoh, that thou mayest bring my people the children of Israel out of Egypt." And Moses said unto God, "What am I, to go to Pharaoh and to bring the children of Israel out of Egypt?" And he said, "I will be with thee. And this shall be a token unto thee that I have sent thee: after that thou hast brought the people out of Egypt, ye shall serve God upon this mountain." Then said Moses unto God, "When I come unto the children of Israel and say unto them, 'The God of your fathers hath sent me unto you,' and they say unto me, 'What is his name?' - What answer shall I give them?" Then said God unto Moses, "I Will Be What I Will Be." And he said, "This shalt thou say unto the children of Israel, 'I Will Be did send me to you.'" And God spake further unto Moses, "Thus shalt thou say unto the children of Israel, 'the LORD God of your fathers, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob hath sent me unto you': this is my name for ever, and this is my memorial throughout all generations. Go therefore and gather the elders of Israel together and say unto them, 'the LORD God of your fathers, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac and the God of Jacob, appeared unto me and said: I have been and seen both you and that which is done to you in Egypt. And I have said it, that I will bring you out of the tribulation of Egypt unto the land of the Canaanites, Hittites, Amorites, Perizzites, Hivites and Jebusites: even a land that floweth with milk and honey.' If it come to pass that they hear thy voice, then go, both thou and the elders of Israel unto the king of Egypt, and say unto him, 'The LORD God of the Hebrews hath met with us: Let us go therefore three days' journey into the wilderness, that we may sacrifice unto the LORD our God.' Notwithstanding, I am sure that the king of Egypt will not let you go, except it be with a mighty hand: yea and I will therefore stretch out mine hand, and smite Egypt with all my wonders which I will do therein. And after that he will let you go. And I will get this people favour in the sight of the Egyptians: so that when ye go, ye shall not go empty: but every wife shall borrow of her neighboress and of her that sojourneth in her house, jewels of silver and of gold and raiment. And ye shall put them on your sons and daughters, and shall rob the Egyptians."
Religion » Instances of outstanding religious persons » Jehoshaphat
And the LORD was with Jehoshaphat, because he walked in the old ways of his father David, and sought not Baals: But sought the LORD God of his father and walked in his commandments and not after the doings of Israel. Therefore the LORD established the kingdom in his hand and all Judah brought him presents, that he became exceeding rich and glorious. read more.
And his heart was courageous in the ways of the LORD, and he put down yet more of the hill altars and groves out of Judah. And the third year of his reign he sent, of his lords: Benhail, Obadiah, Zechariah, Nethanel and Micaiah to teach in the cities of Judah: and with them, Shemaiah, Nethaniah, Zebadiah, Asahel, Shemiramoth, Jehonathan, Adonijah, Tobijah and Tobadonijah, Levites: and with them Elishama and Jehoram, priests. And they taught in Judah, and had the book of the law with them, and went about throughout all the cities of Judah and taught the people.
Religion » Instances of outstanding religious persons » Abel
By faith, Abel offered unto God a more plenteous sacrifice than Cain: by which he obtained witness that he was righteous, God testifying of his gifts: by which also he being dead, yet speaketh.
And Abel, he brought also of the firstlings of his sheep and of the fat of them. And the LORD looked unto Abel and to his offering: but unto Cain and unto his offering, looked he not. And Cain was wroth exceedingly, and lowered. And the LORD said unto Cain, "Why art thou angry, and why lowerest thou? Knowest thou not, if thou dost well thou shalt receive it? read more.
But and if thou dost evil, by and by thy sin lieth open in the door. Notwithstanding, let it be subdued unto thee, and see thou rule it." And Cain talked with Abel his brother. And as soon as they were in the fields, Cain fell upon Abel his brother and slew him.
Religion » Examples of piety » hezekiah
And of this manner did Hezekiah, throughout all Judah; and did that was good, right and truth, before the LORD his God.
Religion » Parental prayers » David, for solomon
And give unto Solomon my son, a pure heart to keep thy commandments, thy testimonies and thine ordinances, and to do all, and to build the house which I intended."
Religion » National » Supported by taxes
Every man offering half a sicle after the weight of the holy sicle among them that went to be numbered from twenty years old and above, among six hundred thousand and three thousand and five hundred and fifty men.
And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying, "When thou takest the sum of the children of Israel and tellest them, they shall give every man a reconciling of his soul unto the LORD, that there be no plague among them when thou tellest them. And thus much shall every man give that goeth in the number: half a sicle, after the holy sicle: a sicle is twenty geras: and a half sicle shall be the heave offering unto the LORD. read more.
And all that are numbered of them that are twenty years old and above shall give a heave offering unto the LORD. The rich shall not pass, and the poor shall not go under, half a sicle; when they give a heave offering unto the LORD for the atonement of their souls. And thou shalt take the reconciling money of the children of Israel and shalt put it unto the use of the tabernacle of witness, and it shall be a memorial of the children of Israel before the LORD, to make atonement for their souls."
Religion » Examples of piety » Jabez
But Jabez called on the God of Israel, saying, "If thou shalt bless me, and enlarge my coasts, and shalt let thine hand be with me, and wilt keep me from evil that it vex me not." And God sent him his desire.
Religion » Instances of outstanding religious persons » Solomon
"Thou knowest of David my father, how he could not build a house unto the name of the LORD his God for war which he had on every side, until the LORD had put them under his foot. But now the LORD my God hath given me rest on every side, so that there is neither adversary nor any evil plague. And therefore I am disposed to build a house unto the name of the LORD my God, as he promised David my father, saying, 'Thy son which I will put upon thy seat for thee, he shall build a house unto my name.'
Religion » Parental prayers » David, for the life of his child
And David besought God for the boy and fasted and went and lay all night upon the earth.
Religion » Home religion general references to » Home, the best place to show piety
If any widow have children or nephews, let them learn first to rule their own houses godly, and to recompense their elders. For that is good and acceptable before God.
Religion » Inconsistency in religious life general marks of » Selfishness
If a brother or a sister be naked or destitute of daily food, and one of you say unto them, "Depart in peace, God send you warmness and food," notwithstanding ye give them not those things which are needful to the body: what helpeth it them?
Religion » Instances of outstanding religious persons » Zacharias
And the angel said unto him, "Fear not Zacharias, for thy prayer is heard: And thy wife Elizabeth shall bear thee a son, and thou shalt call his name John:
And his father Zacharias was filled with the holy ghost, and prophesied, saying, "Blessed be the Lord God of Israel, for he hath visited and redeemed his people. And hath raised up a horn of salvation unto us, in the house of his servant David. read more.
Even as he promised by the mouth of his holy prophets which were since the world began. That we should be saved from our enemies: And from the hands of all that hate us: To fulfill the mercy promised to our fathers; And to remember his holy covenant; And to perform the oath, which he sware to our father Abraham, for to give us. That we, delivered out of the hands of our enemies, might serve him without fear: all the days of our life, in such holiness and righteousness that are accept before him. And thou child, shalt be called the prophet of the highest, for thou shalt go before the face of the Lord, to prepare his ways: And to give knowledge of salvation unto his people, for the remission of sins: Through the tender mercy of our God, whereby the day spring from on high hath visited us: To give light to them that sat in darkness, and in shadow of death, and to guide our feet into the way of peace."
Religion » Instances of outstanding religious persons » Noah
Religion » Sanctimony, distinguishing marks of » Assumed innocence
Yet darest thou say, 'I am guiltless: Tush, his wrath cannot come upon me.' Behold, I will reason with thee because thou darest say, 'I have not offended.'
Religion » Sanctimony, distinguishing marks of » Hypocrisy
Woe be unto you, scribes and Pharisees, for ye devour widows' houses: and that, under a colour of praying long prayers, wherefore ye shall receive greater damnation.
Religion » Examples of piety » Timothy
when I call to remembrance the unfeigned faith that is in thee, which dwelt first in thy grandmother Lois, and in thy mother Eunice: and am assured that it dwelleth in thee also.
Religion » Parental prayers » The father, for the demoniac
"Master have mercy on my son, for he is lunatic, and is sore vexed. And ofttimes, he falleth into the fire, and oft into the water.
Religion » Parental prayers » Abraham, for ishmael
Religion » Devout mothers » Hannah
But Hannah went not up, for she said unto her husband, "I will tarry until the lad be weaned, and then I will bring him, that he may appear before the LORD and there abide forever."
Religion » Devout mothers » Eunice
when I call to remembrance the unfeigned faith that is in thee, which dwelt first in thy grandmother Lois, and in thy mother Eunice: and am assured that it dwelleth in thee also.
Religion » Instances of outstanding religious persons » Jehu
and said, "Go with me and see the zeal I have to the LORD," and made him ride with him in his chariot. And when he came to Samaria, he slew all that remained unto Ahab in Samaria, till he had wiped him out, according to the saying of the LORD which he spake to Elijah. After that, Jehu gathered all the people together and said to them, "Ahab served Baal a little: but Jehu shall serve him a good. read more.
Now, therefore, call unto me all the Prophets of Baal and all his servants and all his priests that none be lacking. For I have a great sacrifice to do to Baal: and if any be missed, he shall not live." But Jehu did it for a subtlety, to destroy the servants of Baal. Wherefore Jehu said, "Appoint a solemn feast for Baal." And they proclaimed it. Then Jehu sent throughout all Israel. And all the servants of Baal came, that there was not a man left behind that came not. And when they were come into the temple of Baal, the temple was full from one end to another. Then he said to the keeper of the vestry, bring forth garments for the servants of Baal. And he brought them out garments. And Jehu went with Jehonadab son of Rechab into the house of Baal: and said to the servants of Baal, "Search and look that there be none here with you of the servants of the LORD, but the servants of Baal only." And they went in, to offer sacrifice and burnt offerings. But Jehu appointed him four score men without, and said, "If any of the men that I shall bring unto your hands escape, he that letteth him go shall die for him." And as soon as he had made an end of offering of burnt sacrifice, he said to them of the guard and to the lords, "Go in and slay them, let none come out." And they smote them with the edge of the sword. And the guard and the lords cast them out, and went unto the city of the house of Baal, and fetched out the image out of the house of Baal and burnt it. And they brake the image of Baal, and brake the house of Baal, and made a privy house thereof, unto this day. And so Jehu destroyed Baal out of Israel. But from the sins of Jeroboam the son of Nebat which made Israel sin with the golden calves in Bethel and Dan, Jehu departed not. Then the LORD said to Jehu, "Because thou hast lustily done that pleaseth me, and hast done to the house of Ahab all that was in mine heart, therefore shall thy children in the fourth generation sit on the seat of Israel."
Religion » Home religion general references to » Joshua establishes religion in his home
But if it seem evil unto you to serve the LORD, then choose you this day, whom you will serve: whether the gods which your fathers served, that were on the other side of the water, or the gods of the Amorites in whose land, ye dwelt. As for me and my house, we will serve the LORD."
Religion » Examples of piety » Enoch
and then Enoch lived a godly life, and was no more seen - for God took him away.
Religion » Devout mothers » Sarah
And Sara said, "God hath made me a laughingstock: for all that hear, will laugh at me."
Religion » National » Established by jeroboam
And Jeroboam thought in his heart, "Now might the kingdom return to the house of David again. For if this people shall go up and do sacrifice in the house of the LORD at Jerusalem, then shall their hearts turn again unto their lord Rehoboam king of Judah. And so shall they kill me and go again to Rehoboam king of Judah." Whereupon the king took counsel and made two calves of gold and said unto the people, "Ye shall not need to go any more to Jerusalem. Behold your gods, Israel, which brought you out of the land of Egypt!" read more.
And he put the one in Bethel and the other in Dan. And that doing was a cause of sin. And the people went before the one as far as Dan. And he made houses of hill altars, and made, of the lowest of the people, priests which were not of the sons of Levi. And Jeroboam made a feast the fifteenth day of the eighth month, like unto the feast that was in Judah, and offered on the altar. And so did he in Bethel, to offer unto the calves that he had made. And he put in Bethel the priests of the hill altars, which he had made. And he offered upon the altar which he had made in Bethel, the fifteenth day of the eighth month, which he had imagined of his own heart: and made a solemn feast unto the children of Israel, and went up to the altar to burn sacrifice.
Religion » Examples of piety » Noah
These are the generations of Noah. Noah was a righteous man and uncorrupt in his time, and walked with God.
Religion » Sanctimony, distinguishing marks of » An outward show of righteousness
For me they seek day by day; and will know my ways, as a people that doth righteousness, and hath not forsaken the equity of their God.
Religion » Sanctimony, distinguishing marks of » Pharisaic separation
If thou comest nigh them, they say, "Touch me not, for I am holier than thou." All these men when I am angry, shall be turned to smoke and fire, that shall burn forever.
Religion » Sanctimony, distinguishing marks of » Religious display
And when thou prayest, thou shalt not be as the hypocrites are: for they love to stand and pray in the synagogues, and in the corners of the streets, because they would be seen of men. Verily I say unto you, they have their reward.
Religion » Examples of piety » Daniel
Now when Daniel understood that the writing was made, he went into his house: and the windows of his hall toward Jerusalem stood open. There kneeled he down upon his knees, three times a day: there he made his petition, and praised his God, like as his manner was to do afore time.
Religion » FALSE
"For our rock is not as their rock; no, though our enemies be judge. But their vines are of the vines of Sodom, and of the fields of Gomorrah. Their grapes are grapes of gall, and their clusters be bitter. Their wine is the poison of dragons, and the cruel gall of asps.
Religion » Home religion general references to » The philippian jailer and his family are baptized
And he took them the same hour of the night and washed their wounds, and was baptised, with all that belonged unto him, straightway.
Religion » Home religion general references to » Mary sits at jesus' feet in her home
And this woman had a sister called Mary, which sat at Jesus' feet, and heard his preaching:
Religion » Home religion general references to » Lydia and her household converted
When she was baptised, and her household, she besought us saying, "If ye think that I believe on the Lord come into my house, and abide there." And she constrained us.
Religion » True religion » Examples of piety » Barnabas
For he was a good man, and full of the holy ghost and of faith. And much people was added unto the Lord.
Religion » Inconsistency in religious life general marks of » False profession
They confess that they know God: but with the deeds they deny him and are abominable, and disobedient, and unto all good works discommendable.
Religion » Inconsistency in religious life general marks of » Harsh judgment
Therefore art thou inexcusable, O man, whosoever thou be that judgest. For in the same wherein thou judgest another, thou condemnest thyself. For thou that judgest doest even the same self things.
Religion » Instances of outstanding religious persons » Anna, the prophetess
And there was one Anna, a prophetess, the daughter of Phanuel of the tribe of Asher: which was of a great age, and had lived with a husband seven years from her virginity. And she had been a widow about four score and four years of age, which went never out of the temple, but served God there with fasting and prayer night and day.
Religion » Instances of outstanding religious persons » Josiah
Religion » Instances of outstanding religious persons » Simeon
And behold, there was a man in Jerusalem, whose name was Simeon. And the same man was just and feared God, and longed for the consolation of Israel, and the holy ghost was in him. And an answer was given him of the holy ghost, that he should not see death, before he had seen the Lord's Christ. And he came by inspiration into the temple. And when the father and mother brought in the child Jesus, to do for him after the custom of the law, read more.
then took he him up in his arms and said, "Lord, Now lettest thou thy servant depart in peace according to thy promise. For mine eyes have seen the saviour sent from thee: Which thou hast prepared before the face of all people. A light to lighten the gentiles, and the glory of thy people Israel." And his father and mother marveled at those things, which were spoken of him: And Simeon blessed them, and said unto Mary his mother, "Behold, this child shall be the fall, and resurrection, of many in Israel: And a sign which shall be spoken against. And moreover, the sword shall pierce thy soul, that the thoughts of many hearts may be opened."
Religion » Instances of outstanding religious persons » Jabez
And Jabez was nobler than his brethren. And his mother called his name Jabez, saying, "Because I bare him with sorrow." But Jabez called on the God of Israel, saying, "If thou shalt bless me, and enlarge my coasts, and shalt let thine hand be with me, and wilt keep me from evil that it vex me not." And God sent him his desire.
Religion » Instances of outstanding religious persons » Asa
Religion » Examples of piety » Ananias
And one Ananias, a perfect man, and as pertaining to the law having good report of all the Jews which there dwelt,
Religion » Home religion general references to » The entire family of the nobleman accept Christ
And the father knew that it was the same hour in which Jesus said unto him, "Thy son liveth." And he believed, and all his household.
Religion » Home religion general references to » Andrew leads his brother to Christ
The same found his brother Simon first, and said unto him, "We have found Messiah," which is by interpretation, Anointed.
Religion » True religion » Examples of piety » Cornelius
a devout man, and one that feared God with all his household, which gave much alms to the people, and prayed God always.
Religion » Inconsistency in religious life general marks of » Religious talk
Religion » Inconsistency in religious life general marks of » Legalism
If a man on the Sabbath day receive circumcision without breaking of the law of Moses: Disdain ye at me, because I have made a man every whit whole on the Sabbath day?
Religion » Instances of outstanding religious persons » The roman centurion
When he had ended all his sayings in the audience of the people, he entered into Capernaum. And the servant of a certain Centurion was sick, and ready to die, whom he made much of. And when he heard of Jesus, he sent unto him the elders of the Jews, beseeching him that he would come and heal his servant. read more.
And they came to Jesus and besought him instantly, saying, "He is worthy that thou shouldest do this for him. For he loveth our nation, and hath built us a synagogue." And Jesus went with them. And when he was not far from the house, the Centurion sent to him his friends, saying unto him, "Lord trouble not thyself, for I am not worthy that thou shouldest enter under my roof. Wherefore I thought not myself worthy to come unto thee: but say the word and my servant shall be whole. For I likewise am a man under power, and have under me soldiers, and I say unto one, 'Go': and he goeth. And to another, 'Come': and he cometh. And to my servant, 'Do this': and he doeth it." When Jesus heard this, he marveled at him, and turned him about and said to the people that followed him, "I say unto you, I have not found so great faith: No, not in Israel, certainly." And they that were sent, turned back home again, and found the servant that was sick whole.
Religion » Instances of outstanding religious persons » Daniel
Wherefore the princes and lords sought to pick out in Daniel some quarrel against the kingdom: yet could they find none occasion nor fault upon him. For why? He was so faithful, that there was no blame nor dishonesty found in him. Then said these men, "We will get no quarrel against this Daniel, except it be in the law of his God." Upon this, went the princes and lords together unto the king, and said thus unto him, "King Darius, God save thy life forever. read more.
All the great estates of the realm - as the princes, dukes, senators and judges - are determined to put out a commandment of the king, and to make a sure statute. Namely, that whoso desireth any petition, either of any god or man within this thirty days, except it be only of thee, O king: the same person may be cast into the lions' den. Wherefore, O king, confirm thou this statute, and make a writing: that the thing which the Medes and Persians have ordained be not altered nor broken." So Darius made the writing, and confirmed it. Now when Daniel understood that the writing was made, he went into his house: and the windows of his hall toward Jerusalem stood open. There kneeled he down upon his knees, three times a day: there he made his petition, and praised his God, like as his manner was to do afore time. Then these men made search, and found Daniel making his petition and praying unto his God. So they came to the king, and spake before him concerning his commandment, saying, "O king, hast thou not subscribed the statute, that within thirty days whoso requireth his petition of any god or man, but only of thyself, O king, he shall be cast into the den of the lions?" The king answered, and said, "It is true. It must be as a law of the Medes and Persians, that may not be broken." Then answered they, and said unto the king, "Daniel one of the prisoners of Judah, O king, regardeth neither thee nor thy statute that thou hast made, but maketh his petition three times a day." When the king heard these words, he was sore grieved, and would have excused Daniel, to deliver him, and put off the matter until the sun went down, to the intent that he might save him. These men, perceiving the king's mind, said unto him, "Know this, O king: that the law of the Medes and Persians is, that the commandment and statute which the king maketh, may not be altered." Then the king had them bring Daniel, and cast him into the Lions' den. The king also spake unto Daniel, and said, "Thy God whom thou always servest, even he shall defend thee." And there was brought a stone, and laid upon the hole of the den: this the king sealed with his own ring, and with the signet of his princes: that the king's commandment concerning Daniel, should not be broken. So the king went in to his palace, and kept him sober all night, so that there was no table spread before him, neither could he take any sleep. But betimes in the morning, at the break of the day, the king arose, and went in all haste unto the den of the Lions. Now as he came nigh unto the den, he cried with a piteous voice unto Daniel: Yea, the king spake, and said to Daniel, "O Daniel, thou servant of the living God, is not thy God, whom thou alway servest, able to deliver thee from the lions?" Daniel said unto the king, "O king, God save thy life for ever. My God hath sent his angel, which hath shut the lions' mouths, so that they might not hurt me. For why? Mine unguiltiness is found out before him. And as for thee, O king, I never offended thee."
Religion » Home religion general references to » Healing of » Witness for Christ
"Go home again into thine own house, and show what great things God hath done to thee." And he went his way, and preached throughout all the city what great things Jesus had done unto him.
Religion » Examples of piety » Nathanael
Jesus saw Nathanael coming to him, and said of him, "Behold a right Israelite, in whom is no guile."
Religion » Examples of piety » Christ
And he that sent me is with me. The father hath not left me alone; For I do always those things that please him."
Religion » Examples of piety » Simeon
And behold, there was a man in Jerusalem, whose name was Simeon. And the same man was just and feared God, and longed for the consolation of Israel, and the holy ghost was in him.
Religion » Examples of piety » Anna
And she had been a widow about four score and four years of age, which went never out of the temple, but served God there with fasting and prayer night and day.
Religion » Parental prayers » The syrophenician mother
The woman was a Greek out of Syrophoenicia, and she besought him that he would cast out the devil out of her daughter.
Religion » Devout mothers » Elizabeth
And it fortuned, as Elizabeth heard the salutation of Mary, the babe sprang in her belly. And Elizabeth was filled with the holy ghost,
Religion » Devout mothers » Mary
Religion » Instances of outstanding religious persons » Jethro
And Jethro, Moses' father-in-law, offered burnt offerings and sacrifices unto God. And Aaron and all the elders of Israel came to eat bread with Moses' father-in-law before God.
Religion » Home religion general references to » Job sanctifies his children
And it fortuned that when they had passed over the time of their banqueting round about; Job sent for them, and sanctified them, and gat up early, and offered for every one a burnt offering. For Job thought thus: "Peradventure my sons have done some offense, and have been unthankful to God in their hearts." And thus did Job everyday.
Religion » Instances of outstanding religious persons » Eunice and lois
when I call to remembrance the unfeigned faith that is in thee, which dwelt first in thy grandmother Lois, and in thy mother Eunice: and am assured that it dwelleth in thee also.
Religion » Instances of outstanding religious persons » gideon
Religion » Examples of piety » Job
In the land of Uz, there was a man called Job: an innocent and virtuous man, such a one as feared God, and eschewed evil.
Religion » Parental prayers » Job, for his children
And it fortuned that when they had passed over the time of their banqueting round about; Job sent for them, and sanctified them, and gat up early, and offered for every one a burnt offering. For Job thought thus: "Peradventure my sons have done some offense, and have been unthankful to God in their hearts." And thus did Job everyday.
Religion » Instances of outstanding religious persons » Cornelius, another centurion
Religion » Instances of outstanding religious persons » samuel
Religion » Instances of outstanding religious persons » Joshua
Religion » Instances of outstanding religious persons » The three hebrews (shadrach, meshach, and abed-nego)
Topics on Religion
False Religion
Acts 17:29Forasmuch then as we are the generation of God, we ought not to think that the godhead is like unto gold, silver, or stone, graven by craft and imagination of man.
False Religion To This Day
Ezekiel 20:31In all your idols, whereunto ye bring your oblations, and to whose honour ye burn your children: ye defile yourselves, even unto this day. How dare ye then come, and ask any question at me? O ye household of Israel: As truly as I live, sayeth the LORD God, ye get no answer of me.
Nominal Religion
Jeremiah 12:2Thou plantest them, they take root, they grow, and bring forth fruit. They boast much of thee, yet doest thou not punish them.
True Religion
Ecclesiastes 12:13Let us hear the conclusion of all things: Fear God, and keep his commandments, for that toucheth all men;
Useless Religion
James 1:26If any man among you seem devout, and refrain not his tongue: but deceive his own heart, this man's devotion is in vain.
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