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Topical Studies Available via E-mail Scripture quotations are from the New Living Translation - 2004 edition unless otherwise noted. Appendix to 244 Apply-to-Life Research Bible Studies Lists about: (1) Christ (10 of 50+ topics), (2) the Bible (10 of 70+ topics), (3) Prayer (10 of 40+ topics), & (4) the Church Christ Promised in Acts (10 if 30+ topics). "RESEARCHED TOPICS" features a list of practical research article topics that have resulted from forty plus years of Study Bible Research in pastoral ministry. These practical "STUDIED STUDY BIBLE" studies that can form a group study or sermon series are grouped into four important topics with one or two sample studies for each topic. You, too, can "mine these treasures" for the "gold nuggets" you can discover as you explore your Study Bibles. (1) Christ-Focused Research Topics ~ 70:
Sample Researched Bible Study On "Christ" 1 of 2 Christ Research Studies The Lordship Of Jesus Christ
Matthew 11:28-30 ~ "Jesus said: ‘Come to Me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. TAKE MY YOKE UPON YOU. Let Me TEACH YOU, because I am humble and gentle at heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For MY YOKE is easy to bear, and the burden I give you is light." NLT-2004 21st Century Version could read: "Let Me behind your Steering Wheel! Let Me drive you wherever you need to go today! I know the very best roads to take – I am "the Way!" Question: What is the Lordship of Christ and what does it mean to me in the 21st Century? [Note: In our 21st Century when most people know little or nothing about how to appreciate this universal invitation ("all of you") we are in need of a readily recognizable and practical way to apply this vital Lordship Truth to our daily lives.] Answer: Sound-byte (T-140) "Get-To-The-Point" Equation. LORDSHIP = Christ in Control (Yoke or Steering Wheel) WORK ASSIGNMENT = Obediently joining Christ in His Yoke daily on the passenger side. (Visualizing Him at the Steering Wheel of our lives day by day.) WORK REWARD: Being transformed (Romans 12:1-2) to be one with and become like Christ. (2 Corinthians 3:18; John 17:9-11) Did I say, "T-140?" It is more than 140 spaces. No, it is more like "T-475!" Lordship – Familiarization Research Study Jesus Christ is the First and the Last --- the Lord of the Universe! Revelation 21:6 ~ "I am the Alpha and the Omega --- the beginning and the end." Hebrews 12:2 – NKJV – "Author and Finisher of our Faith." A Practical Application Research of "Lordship" in NLT Scriptures. HISTORICAL PERSPECTIVE Jesus Christ with the Father: John 17:5 ~ "Now, Father, bring me into the glory we shared before the world began." [John 1:1-2; 17:5, 24] Jesus Christ as Creator: Genesis 1:1; John 1:3-4 Hebrews 1:2 ~ "God promised everything to the Son as an inheritance, and through the Son he created the universe." Christ as One with the Father: [Exodus 20:22-23; Matthew 22:37-38] Hebrews 1:3-4 ~ "The Son radiates God’s own glory and expresses the very character of God, and He sustains everything by the mighty power of His command." See also: John 17:21-22; John 8:28; John 14:6 Jesus Christ as Lord: The Lordship of Jesus Christ involves recognizing and submitting to His authority in accordance with John 17:2 ~ "You have given him authority over everyone." Philippians 2:9-11 ~ "God elevated him to the place of highest honor and gave him the name above all other names, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of the Father." Luke 6:46-49 ~ Christ asked a vital question: "Why do you keep calling me ‘Lord, Lord’ when you don’t do what I say?" Christ requires total and unconditional obedience. "If Christ is not Lord of all, He is not Lord at all." Peter at Pentecost in Acts 2:36 affirmed this fact for the new Church: "Let everyone in Israel know for certain that God has made this Jesus, whom you crucified, to be both Lord and Messiah." Romans 10:9-10 ~ "If you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved." Christ’s Disciples: John 17:20-22 ~ "I am praying not only for these disciples but also for all who will ever believe in me through their message. I pray that they will all be one, just as you and I are one – as you are in me, Father, and I am in you. And may they be in us so that the world will believe you sent me." See also: Luke 9:23; Philippians 2:5-11; Galatians 2:20; Matthew 6:33; 2 Corinthians 3:18. Christ as Teacher: Matthew 11:28-30 ~ "Jesus said: ‘Come to Me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. TAKE MY YOKE UPON YOU. Let Me TEACH YOU, because I am humble and gentle at heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For MY YOKE is easy to bear, and the burden I give you is light." NLT-2004 As our Teacher, Christ , the Truth, Prayed in John 17:17: "Make them (His disciples) holy by your truth; teach them your Word, which is truth." He promised the Holy Spirit as a guide into all truth. John 14:6; 16:13; 14:26. NOTE: A yoke in Christ’s day was a work implement used to enable two oxen to pull loads --- a cart or a plow. Control was the key issue in keeping the animals working together. Christ wants us to be yoked to Him --- to work with Him, to be closely related to Him, to depend upon Him, to let Him help us with our burdens, and to help us find ultimate "rest for the soul." John 17:24 In our 21st Century when most people know little or nothing about how to appreciate this universal invitation ("all of you") we are in need of a readily recognizable and practical way to apply this vital text to our daily lives. Lordship Research Reflections [Evaluate your level or degree of obedience: 0-1-2-3-4-5-6-7-8-9-10 --- Ten is positive.]
Steering Wheel Personalized Prayer [A Composite of ESV, HCSB, MESSAGE, NIV, & NLT Versions] A Personalized Prayer Applied (Insert relevant info.) Matthew 11:28-30 ~ "Jesus said: ‘Come to Me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. TAKE MY YOKE UPON YOU. Let Me TEACH YOU, because I am humble and gentle at heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For MY YOKE is easy to bear, and the burden I give you is light." NLT-2004 · Lord Jesus, Thank You for Your invitation to a close, intimate, daily, and eternal relationship with You. [24-7-365 for a lifetime!] Matthew 28:20 · Thank You that You know the uncertain and uncharted journey ahead for the __________ in__________(Identify a specific need). Make (them) to know the way that is best for their Romans 8:28 future earthly pilgrimage. · Lord Jesus Christ, prove over and over that all of our loads will be lighter when You are the driving force of our life knowing that You are stronger and are carrying more than Your share of the load for us each day. Philippians. 4:13 · Lord Jesus, keep _____________ at peace and ever confident that You are faithful to do the will of the Father, to accomplish Your will in (our or their) lives --- one day at a time under Your control. John 17:17-18; 20-22. Living Word, Master Teacher, Help each of us to know the importance of Your very special offer: "LET ME TEACH YOU,..." Help us to know the ongoing joy of being your Bible Research Inspirational Motivators to others who need to enroll in Christ’s Matthew 11:29 discipleship class! · Master Teacher, Help us to continue to learn everything You want to teach us by Your example as the Living Word and by Your Spirit-inspired Written Word as our daily Teacher for life. · Lord, teach us to know who else needs to know how to keep You at the Steering Wheel of their life in order to do Your Father’s will more perfectly. Please help all of us to learn how let You take the steering wheel and be in control of our lives each day! · Living Word, We long to be faithful to follow Paul’s admonition in 2 Timothy 2:2: "Now teach these truths to other trustworthy people who will be able to pass them on to others." See also: 2 Timothy 2:15; 3:15-17 · Living Word, use this _____________ (specific need) as a witness to every hungry heart and thirsting soul that needs to put Christ behind the steering wheel of their lives. Matthew 5:6 May Your Holy Spirit confirm this prayer to each of us today! In the name of the Living Word and Master Teacher, Jesus Christ, I pray! Amen! Created by Virgil V. Reeve ~ E: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it ; www.studiedbible.org ~ Input responses welcomed! Together let us make Christ’s Lordship more widely known. ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ & Texts in Scripture ~ NLT & Exodus 15:6 – "Your right hand, O LORD, is glorious in power. Your right hand, O LORD, dashes the enemy to pieces."
Psalm 16:11 - "You will show me the way of life, granting me the joy of your presence and the pleasures of living with you forever." NKJV: "At Your right hand are pleasures forevermore." Psalm 63:7,8 – "I think how much you have helped me; I sing for joy in the shadow of your protecting wings. 8I follow close behind you; your strong right hand holds me securely." Psalm 73:23-25 - "Yet I still belong to you; you are holding my right hand. 24You will keep on guiding me with your counsel, leading me to a glorious destiny. 25 Whom have I in heaven but you? I desire you more than anything on earth." Psalm 98:1 - "Sing a new song to the LORD, for he has done wonderful deeds.He has won a mighty victory by his power and holiness. ESV: "…His right hand, and His holy arm, have worked salvation for him." Psalm 118:14-16 - "The LORD is my strength and my song; he has become my victory. 15 Songs of joy and victory are sung in the camp of the godly. The strong right arm of the LORD has done glorious things! 16 The strong right arm of the LORD is raised in triumph. The strong right arm of the LORD has done glorious things! ESV: "The right hand of the Lord does valiantly, the right hand of the Lord exhalts. The right hand of the Lord does valiantly." Psalm 139:9,10 – "If I ride the wings of the morning, if I dwell by the farthest oceans, 10 even there your hand will guide me, and your strength will support me. ESV: "…Your right hand shall lead me and Your right hand shall hold me." Isaiah 41:10 - "Don’t be afraid, for I am with you. Do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you. I will help you. I will uphold you with my victorious right hand." Isaiah 48:12,13 - "Listen to me, … I alone am God, the First and the Last. 13 It was my hand that laid the foundations of the earth. The palm of my right hand spread out the heavens above. I spoke, and they came into being. (Compare John 1:3 & Hebrews 1:2 & 12:1,2) Isaiah 49:15,16 - "Even if that were possible, I would not forget you! 16 See, I have written your name on my hand." Matthew 26:64 - Jesus replied, "…In the future you will see me, the Son of Man, sitting at God’s right hand in the place of power and coming back on the clouds of heaven." Mark 14:61,62 - "Then the high priest asked him, "Are you the Messiah, the Son of the blessed God?" 62 Jesus said, "I am, and you will see me, the Son of Man, sitting at God’s right hand in the place of power and coming back on the clouds of heaven."
Mark 16:19 - "When the Lord Jesus had finished talking with them, he was taken up into heaven and sat down in the place of honor at God’s right hand." Luke 22:66-69 – "Jesus was led before this high council,£ 67and they said, "Tell us if you are the Messiah." But he replied, "If I tell you, you won’t believe me. 68And if I ask you a question, you won’t answer. 69 But the time is soon coming when I, the Son of Man, will be sitting at God’s right hand in the place of power." John 1:17,18 - "God’s unfailing love and faithfulness came through Jesus Christ. 18 No one has ever seen God. But his only Son, who is himself God, is near to the Father’s heart; he has told us about him." ESV: "…Who is at the Father's side." John 10:27-30 - "My sheep recognize my voice; I know them, and they follow me. 28 I give them eternal life, and they will never perish. No one will snatch them away from me, 29 for my Father has given them to me, and he is more powerful than anyone else. So no one can take them from me. 30 The Father and I are one." ESV: "No one is able to snatch them out of MY FATHER’S HAND." Acts 2:25 – "King David said this about him: ‘I know the Lord is always with me. I will not be shaken, for he is right beside me.’" ESV: "He is at my right hand." Acts 2:32-36 - "This prophecy was speaking of Jesus, whom God raised from the dead, and we all are witnesses of this. 33 Now he sits on the throne of highest honor in heaven, at God’s right hand. And the Father, as he had promised, gave him the Holy Spirit to pour out upon us, just as you see and hear today. 34 For David himself never ascended into heaven, yet he said, ‘The LORD said to my Lord, Sit in honor at my right hand 35 until I humble your enemies, making them a footstool under your feet.’
36 So let it be clearly known by everyone in Israel that God has made this Jesus whom you crucified to be both Lord and Messiah!"
Acts 5:30-32 - "We must obey God rather than human authority. 30 The God of our ancestors raised Jesus from the dead after you killed him by crucifying him. 31Then God put him in the place of honor at his right hand as Prince and Savior. He did this to give the people of Israel an opportunity to turn from their sins and turn to God so their sins would be forgiven. 32 We are witnesses of these things and so is the Holy Spirit, who is given by God to those who obey him." Acts 7:55,56 - "Stephen, full of the Holy Spirit, gazed steadily upward into heaven and saw the glory of God, and he saw Jesus standing in the place of honor at God’s right hand. 56And he told them, "Look, I see the heavens opened and the Son of Man standing in the place of honor at God’s right hand!" Romans 8:34 - "Who then will condemn us? Will Christ Jesus? No, for he is the one who died for us and was raised to life for us and is sitting at the place of highest honor next to God, pleading for us." [Our INTERCESSOR.] Ephesians 1:19,20 – "I pray that you will begin to understand the incredible greatness of his power for us who believe him. This is the same mighty power 20that raised Christ from the dead and seated him in the place of honor at God’s right hand in the heavenly realms." Colossians 3:1 – "Since you have been raised to new life with Christ, set your sights on the realities of heaven, where Christ sits at God’s right hand in the place of honor and power. 2 Let heaven fill your thoughts." Hebrews 1:3 – "The Son reflects God’s own glory, and everything about him represents God exactly. He sustains the universe by the mighty power of his command. After he died to cleanse us from the stain of sin, he sat down in the place of honor at the right hand of the majestic God of heaven." Hebrews 1:13 – "God never said to an angel, as he did to his Son, "Sit in honor at my right hand until I humble your enemies, making them a footstool under your feet." Hebrews 7:25 – "Jesus remains a priest forever; his priesthood will never end. 25 Therefore he is able, once and forever, to save everyone who comes to God through him. He lives forever to plead with God on their behalf. 26 He is the kind of high priest we need because he is holy and blameless, unstained by sin. He has now been set apart from sinners, and he has been given the highest place of honor in heaven."
Hebrews 8:1 – "Here is the main point: Our High Priest sat down in the place of highest honor in heaven, at God’s right hand. 2 There he ministers in the sacred tent, the true place of worship that was built by the Lord and not by human hands." Hebrews 10:12,13 - "But our High Priest offered himself to God as one sacrifice for sins, good for all time. Then he sat down at the place of highest honor at God’s right hand. 13 There he waits until his enemies are humbled as a footstool under his feet." Hebrews 10:31 - "The Lord will judge his own people." 31 It is a terrible thing to fall into the hands of the living God." Hebrews 12:2 – "He was willing to die a shameful death on the cross because of the joy he knew would be his afterward. Now he is seated in the place of highest honor beside God’s throne in heaven." 1 Peter 3:22 – "Now Christ has gone to heaven. He is seated in the place of honor next to God, and all the angels and authorities and powers are bowing before him." 1 Peter 5:6 - "So humble yourselves under the mighty power of God", [ESV: "The MIGHTY HAND OF GOD,"] and in his good time he will honor you. 7 Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about what happens to you." If indeed there is joy in heaven over one sinner who repents, what was the scene like when Jesus returned in victory to the right hand of His Father in heaven? The Triumphal Entry of the first Palm Sunday was nothing compared to the future celebration when we catch our first glimpse of Christ seated at the right hand of the Father in heaven! ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ (2) Bible-Focused Research Topics ~ 90: 1. 100 Years of Study Bible Publication History 2. Poems: A Bible Diary & Reading Through The Bible 3. Twelve Basic Memory & Meditation Verses For Daily Live 4. How To Study Two Study Bible Versions Together 5. How To Pray In Christ's Matthew 11 Yoke 6. Reading 500 Overview Bible Chapters In A Year (Brochure Insert) 7. New Testament 260 Chapters In 13 Months -- A Reading Guide 8. Choosing A Bible Version By Reading Level Vocabularies 9. Acts 8 ~ Philip's Role Model Evangelistic Encounter 10. Why "The World's Best Seller" May Be "Your Least Read" (Excuses We Use) Research Study Focused on "God's Word" I…. AGAPE AMOR
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YOU More Than You…. Love Me!
-- GOD GOD'S FIVE BIBLICAL WAYS TO SAY: "I LOVE YOU!!!!!
"AGAPE~LOVE IN SCRIPTURE" [New Living Translation] "For God So Loved ("Agape") The World (Including All Of Us), That He Gave His Only Son, So That Everyone (Including Any And All Of Us) Who Believes (Accepts) Him Will Not Perish But Have Eternal Life. God Did Not Send His Son Into The World To Condemn It, But To Save It." John 3:16, 17 NLT The Greatest Commandment: "One of them, an expert in religious law, tried to trap Him (Christ) with this question: `Teacher, which is the most important commandment in the law of Moses?'
Jesus replied, `You Must Love The Lord Your God With All Your Heart, All Your Soul, And All Your Mind.' This Is The First And Greatest Commandment. A Second Is Equally Important: `Love Your Neighbor As Yourself.' All The Other Commandments And All The Demands Of The Prophets Are Based On These Two Commandments." Matthew 22:35-40
The Creator-God --- Jesus Christ --- made Man and Woman "in His Image!" We were made with a need for COMPANIONSHIP. We were designed in the image of God with a capacity to enjoy LOVING RELATIONSHIPS. It was God’s idea and design to put us in families with two decades of dependent relationships and responsibilities.
The question is often asked: "What is love?" Everyone DAILY thinks and/or talks about love. "AGAPE" is purest and truest quality of love has been defined as --- "A selfless love that finds its highest delight in the good of another at it’s own expense." True love finds greater joy in giving love rather than receiving love. We who live at this crucial time in history face the awesome challenge of making our home life, our marital relationships, and all human relationships successful, fulfilling, and mutually satisfying. Our Creator --- Jesus Christ --- planned that family life and our homes must be a secure haven for life and love for generations yet unborn. We were designed by our Creator for a special quality true spiritual agape-love. 1. I Accept You!
"God Showed His Great Love For Us By Sending Christ To Die For Us While We Were Still Sinners." Romans 5:8 "To all who believed Him and Accepted Him, He gave the right to become Children of God." John 1:12
"Now I am giving you a new commandment: Love (Agape) each other. Just as I have Loved (Accepted) you, you should Love (Accept) each other. Your Love (Acceptance) for one another will prove to the world that you are my disciples." John 13:34,35
"Dear Friends, Let Us Continue To Love One Another, For Love Comes From God. Anyone Who Loves (Accepts) Is Born Of God And Knows God. But Anyone Who Does Not Love (Accept) Does Not Know God -- For God Is Love." 1 John 4:7,8
"Dear Friends, Since God Loved Us That Much, We Surely Ought To Love Each Other. ... If We Love Each Other, God Lives In Us , And His Love Has Been Brought To Full Expression Through Us." I John 4:11, 12
WHAT IS THE ANTITHESIS TO ACCEPTING LOVE? · Rejection expects perfection without regard to one’s own imperfections. Interactive Practical Application & User-Friendly Exercise Suggestions: 1. Carefully re-read and evaluate your personal "Acceptance I.Q." and write out a list of changes you need to make. Invite an intimate spiritual friend to hold you accountable to your "CHANGE LIST." ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ Our very spiritual life begins at the point of our ACCEPTANCE of God’s John 3:16 Agape-Love Gift of Salvation and Eternal Life. Each person must ask themselves, "Have I accepted Christ’s acceptance of me? Do I belong to the family of God in Christ? Am I sure of it?"
2. I Trust You!! "It Is Impossible To Please God Without Faith. Anyone Who Wants To Come To Him Must Believe That There Is A God And That He Rewards Those Who Sincerely Seek Him." Hebrews 11:6 "God Is Love, And All Who Live In Love Live In God, And God Lives In Them. And As We Live In God, Our Love Grows More Perfect. ... Such Love Has No Fear Because Perfect Love Expels All Fear (Distrust)." 1 John 4:18.19
Our Creator-God --- Jesus Christ ---made people to live by faith. We cannot live a moment of our lives on earth without exercising faith in something or someone.
"I TRUST YOU!" is an invisible bond in a healthy marriage and/or all other relationships human and divine.
I once heard a radio personality ask the question: "WHO DO YOU KNOW WHO BELIEVES IN YOU?" This is a very powerful and important question from the standpoint of our relationships --- especially in marriage. "Does our mate believe that we believe in them?" Does our faith and trust in them encourage and inspire them to feel valued?"
WHAT IS THE ANTITHESIS OF TRUSTING LOVE? · Distrust is the result of living a life without faith in God that results in an incapacity to have faith in others or even in ourselves. Interactive Practical Application & User-Friendly Exercise Suggestions: 1. Carefully re-read and evaluate your personal "Trust ‘I.Q.’ Levels ("T.Q)," and write out a list of changes you need to make to have more faith in God and in others around you. Invite an intimate spiritual friend to hold you accountable to your "TRUST CHANGE LIST." "I BELIEVE IN YOU ... HAVE FAITH IN YOU ... I TRUST YOU!"
3. I Need You!!! God made us for relationship. We need others. No man or woman is an island unto themselves. "The Lord God said, `It Is Not Good For The Man To Be Alone. I Will Make A Companion Who Will Help Him." Genesis 2:18
"Just as our bodies have many parts and each part has a special function, so it is with Christ's body. We are all parts of His one body, and each of us has different work to do. And since we are all one body in Christ, we belong to each other, and each of us needs all the others." Romans 12:4,5
"When God's children are in need, be the one to help them out. And get into the habit of inviting guests home for dinner or, if they need lodging, for the night." Romans 12:13
"We are confident ... of our great trust in God through Christ. It is not that we think we can do anything of lasting value by ourselves. Our only power and success come from God." [We Need God!] 2 Corinthians 3:4,5
Our Creator-God --- Jesus Christ --- made us for RELATIONSHIPS. People are not capable of being totally self-sufficient! We need others. No man or woman is an island unto themselves. "The Creator said it first: `It Is Not Good For The Man To Be Alone.'" (Genesis 2:18) The Romans gave us a valuable proverb that says: "One man is no man at all!" The songwriter says: "No man is an island!"
"I ACCEPT ... TRUST ... I NEED YOU!"
4. I Miss You!!!! or I ENJOY YOUR PRESENCE!!!!
"We are telling you about what we ourselves have actually seen and heard, so that you may have Fellowship with us. And our Fellowship is with the Father and with His Son, Jesus Christ." I John 1:3
In Christ’s "last will and testament" --- the "Great Commission" --- He promised to be with us until the end of time and into eternity. "Be Sure Of This: I Am With You Always, Even To The End Of The Age." Matthew 28:20B
"Stay away from the love of money; be satisfied with what you have. For God has said, `I Will Never Fail You. I Will Never Forsake You.'" Hebrews 13:5 [Cf. Joshua 1:5; Hebrews 10:24,25]
In Genesis 2:18 God affirmed that companionship was a priority for His creation.
All mankind was created with a capacity to enjoy the presence of God as well as the companionship and fellowship of others. Much said and written in recent years about the importance of "INTIMACY!" It has been estimated that only one out of 10 marriages will achieve intimacy in the relationship.
Some have defined intimacy in this way: "INTIMACY refers to the mystical bond of friendship, commitment, and understanding that almost defies explanation!"
In reality there are many kinds of intimacy ---- physical, emotional, intellectual, social, and most important of all --- SPIRITUAL. True Spiritual Intimacy makes all other intimacies possible to their highest achievable degree.
"I MISS YOU!" is a very high compliment to the quality of our human love relationships. Enjoying the practice of the presence of God together (Matthew 18:20) makes Jesus come alive in our relationship --- "there am I," He says!
I MISS YOU: "I enjoy being with you, spending time with you, feeling your nearness, sharing your ideas and ideals, bearing your burdens and cares, and planning our future lives together in the presence of our Lord Jesus Christ. Living daily with Christ in His yoke an learning daily from Him to experience His promised "rest for the soul." Matthew 11:28-30 "I MISS YOU!" says: "I feel incomplete without you! I am at my best when we are together! Time passes more quickly when I am in your presence! `Absence really does make the heart grow fonder!'"
WHAT IS THE ANTITHESIS OF A HEALTHY RELATIONSHIP? · One-way relationships --- minimally invasive. Hard to get to know. Interactive Practical Application & User-Friendly Exercise Suggestions: 1. Carefully re-read and evaluate your "thanks-living" attitude profile about being uncommunicative in response to friendships, kindnesses, generosity, and love from family and friends. Write out a list of your observations about a habit of expressing ingratitude first to God for His faithful blessings, and also to family and friends. Invite a friend who has an appreciative spirit to hold you accountable to evaluate your taking appreciation responsibilities too lightly and irresponsibly. Pray for God to help you gradually transition to have a more positive and appreciative lifestyle. 2. Make a Journal of your appreciation, praise, and thanks-living goals by writing out your biblical prayer using the above suggested Scriptures for the ways that you hope to apply these insights. "I ACCEPT .... I TRUST ... I NEED ... I MISS!!!!" "Always Be Joyful. Keep On Praying. No Matter What Happens, Always Be Thankful, For This Is God's Will For You Who Belong To Christ Jesus." I Thessalonians 5:16-18
"Let The Holy Spirit Fill And Control You. Then You Will Sing Psalms And Hymns And Spiritual Songs Among Yourselves, Making Music To The Lord In Your Hearts. And You Will Always Give Thanks For Everything To God The Father In The Name Of Our Lord Jesus Christ." Ephesians 5:18B, 19,20
"Every Time I Think Of You I Give Thanks To My God." Philippians 1:3
These five biblically supported Love expressions can be applied in every human relationship when motivated by God's Love for us. The fine art of EXPRESSING APPRECIATION is the fulfillment of God’s plan for all relationships. Loving appreciation is not found in looking for it. It is not even found when we try to be loveable. Appreciative Love regularly and frequently takes the initiative to say:
"Thank You! or "I Appreciate You!" or, "I Thank God For You!"
Love's appreciation in the family may express itself in an unexpected flower to bring bright sunshine to an otherwise depressing day. It may be a favorite dessert served by candlelight!
When it is genuinely expressed verbally --- appreciation:
"I THANK GOD FOR YOU! I am eternally grateful that God gave us to each other as His best gift for us!"
This dimension of agape love is at its zenith achievement when two hearts are joined as one in spiritual joy and "thanks-living" --- "In everything give thanks, this is the will of God for you."
The giving of LOVE AS GOD DEFINES IT in these five ways will never diminish the giver.
Loving God first and best broadens our horizons and deepens our capacity to give and receive love. ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ WHAT IS THE ANTITHESIS OF APPRECIATIAVE THANKS-LIVING? Interactive Practical Application & User-Friendly Exercise Suggestions: 1. Carefully re-read and evaluate your "thanks-living" attitude profile about being uncommunicative in response to friendships, kindnesses, generosity, and love from family and friends. Write out a list of your observations about a habit of expressing ingratitude first to God for His faithful blessings, and also to family and friends. Invite a friend who has an appreciative spirit to hold you accountable to evaluate your taking appreciation responsibilities too lightly and irresponsibly. Pray for God to help you gradually transition to have a more positive and appreciative lifestyle. "I ACCEPT .... I TRUST ... I NEED ... I MISS ... I APPRECIATE YOU!" It is a truth that is worth sharing --- "Loving God best, we can love each other the more!" Doxologies!!! God is the author and the initiator of "Agape-Love" -- divine, unselfish Love. His Love is unconditional and expresses itself in at least these five ways to say: "I Love You!" These five biblically supported Love expressions can be applied in every human relationship when motivated by God's Love for us.
The giving of Agape-LOVE AS GOD DEFINES IT in these five ways will never diminish the giver. Loving God first and best broadens our horizons and deepens our capacity to give and receive love. "I ACCEPT .... I TRUST ... I NEED ... I MISS ... I APPRECIATE YOU!" It is a truth that is worth sharing --- "Loving God best, we can love each other the more!" Doxologies!!! Sample Agape-Love Prayer Of Thanks! God of Love revealed in Jesus Christ, Thank You for the Divine Initiative that sent us a Role Model of Thanks-Living and gave us inspired Scriptures to guide us in our obedience to Your Love Commands! 1. Thank You, Lord, that You first loved us as demonstrated by Your sacrifice on the Cross. Thank You for the promise that when we accept and receive Your Son as our Savior, we can reciprocate Your Accepting Agape-Love. 2. Thank You, Lord Jesus, for Your implicit faith in the will of the Father lived here on earth. Thank You that You entrusted us with a free will to accept or reject Your gift of salvation. Thank you that you have entrusted us with the mission of sharing our privileged gift with any or all who will also accept Your gift of everlasting life --- here and hereafter. 3. Thank You, Lord Jesus, that when we individually recognize our need for Your love, that you place us in a spiritual family, Your Church, where our faith can be nurtured and our own humble service find a fruitful harvest field for Your Glory. 4. Thank You, Lord Jesus, for your promise of an abiding presence with us in this life while You intercede for us at the Father’s Right Hand as we strive to "practice the presence of God" and enjoy the privileges afforded us in friendships in Your Spiritual Family. 5. Thank You, Lord Jesus, for the genuine joy of salvation and of the special gift of daily living in an intimate Matthew 11:28-30 24-7-365 relationship with You. Thank You for the privilege of praise and thanksgiving afforded in the worship community of Your Church. Thank You for the reality that ".Loving God first and best broadens our horizons and deepens our capacity to give and receive agape-love." In the Name of Jesus Christ, Your Love Gift to Our World. Amen ~ ~ ~ ~ ~
Bible Study Edited: 1-11-99; 5-12-09; 6-5-10; 2-4-12 ~ (Originally authored in 1967) NOTE: A one sheet two sided summary bulletin format can be had at
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1. Christ At The Father's Right Hand Personalized Bible Research Praying QUESTION: IS THERE SUCH A THING AS A "PERFECT PRAYER"? Whenever anyone says: "I don't know how to pray," ... How can we respond? Is there a PERFECT SOLUTION? 1. Read God's Word (any verse or passage) until it speaks to you. 2. THEN SAY: "Lord Jesus, My Intercessor at My Father's Right Hand,..." 3. NEXT: Prayerfully read the Scripture (verse, paragraph, or chapter) back to God! 4. As you read it again, meditate upon it and PERSONALIZE IT! Make it relevant --- applying to your personal needs and concerns at the present moment. SAMPLE: John 3:16: "Lord Jesus, Thank You that Your Father loved the world that included my 2012 world with me in it --- that You came to earth to be the Father’s His LOVE GIFT --- His only begotten Son --- that whosoever [Including _________ ______________ and __________ (Personalized)] believed on Him (At that instant would receive your promised GIFT!)… would not perish but HAVE (a new quality of life) EVERLASTING LIFE" … HERE AND NOW AND FOREVER." In Jesus's Name, AMEN! Thank You, Living Word and Intercessor, for the reality of this promise and that You did all that for me and for all the world You loved. In Jesus' Name, AMEN." Practice this art of personalize your Bible research prayers with other passages of Scripture that are meaningful to you! Enjoy the Blessing of "PRAYING A PERFECT PRAYER --- knowing that God is eager to hear His Word prayed back to Him in Prayer!
V CHRIST’S MATTHEW 11:28-30 INVITATION Visualize a YOKE -0^0- and a STEERING WHEEL
A POSSIBLE 21st CENTURY ADAPTATION ~ "Let Me behind your Steering Wheel! Let Me drive you on the very best roads to take.
& Thank You especially for Your offer of YOUR YOKE: "Take My yoke upon you." Here is the Steering Wheel of my life. Thank You for being with me as I am close by in the passenger seat.
& Living Word, Master Teacher... I am daily blessed by Your offer: "LET ME TEACH YOU..."
& Lord Jesus, Thank You for Your Servant Model of Humility and Gentleness.
& Lord Jesus, Thank You for Your promise of "REST for your SOULS."
& Lord Jesus, Thank You for Your Promise that "YOUR YOKE IS EASY TO BEAR, and the BURDEN THAT YOU GIVE ME IS LIGHT."
In the name of the "Living Word" and Master Teacher, --- Our Lord Jesus Christ, be my "Driver" --- My Steering Wheel is Yours! Amen.
~ A Bible Study Personalized Prayer Hymn ~ Verse 1 Your "THRONE OF GRACE" is where You meet us, Father!1 Jesus, Your Son , is at Your right hand there.2 Your Holy Spirit speaks the words we cannot.3 You are the God who hears and answers prayer.4 CHORUS: Then sings our souls, Our God Who answers prayer! "Your will be done!" This is our plea.5 Then sings our souls, Our God Who answers prayer! Help us, O Lord, Your will to see.6 SCRIPTURES: 1Hebrews 4:16; 2Mark 16:19; Hebrews 7:25; Revelation 3:20,21; 3Romans 8:26; 4I Peter 3:12; 5Luke 22:42; 6Proverbs 3:5,6; Colossians 1:9.
Where two or three are joined in intercession,7 ... (in Prayer and Fasting!) Our burdens shared, are heard before God's Throne.8 Christ loved the lost, and sent us out to win them.9 Envoys for Christ, we make our friends God's own.10 CHORUS: Our friends are Christ's; He died to save us all.11 Abundant life He freely gives.12 A place prepared, awaits our final call; Eternally with Christ Who lives.13 SCRIPTURES: 7Matthew 18:19; 8Romans 8:34; 9Matthew 20:19,20; Acts 1:8; 10II Corinthians 5:20; 11II Corinthians 5:14,15; 12John 10:10; 13John 14:1-3 Verse 3 God answers EVERY PRAYER that we have offered.14 In love, He knows His will is best for us.15 His answer may be, "NO!" Or "Wait with Patience"!16 But often He will say the loving, "YES!"17 CHORUS: Our hearts rejoice, that You, Lord, answer prayer! "Come unto Me!" we've heard Christ's call.18 Our hearts rejoice, we have a God Who cares!19 Your answers, LORD, give peace to all.20 SCRIPTURES: 14I John 5:14; 15Romans 8:28; 16Hebrews 10:36; 17Psalm 23:1; Philippians 4:19; 18Matthew 11:28; 19I Peter 5:7; 20Philippians 4:6,7. © 2012 by Virgil V. Reeve. All rights reserved, but free use and distribution permission is granted for ministry use. Bulletin Insert Size for Hymn Book Insert Use - Available via
1. Introduction to Acts Research Topics & Index The Name of Jesus in Acts NJ 1 - In his Pentecost Sermon Peter quotes Joel 2:32 with the promise: "EVERYONE WHO CALLS ON THE NAME OF THE LORD WILL BE SAVED." NJ2 - 2:28 - Be baptized in Jesus' Name! NJ3 3:6 - Peter healed the cripple in the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth! NJ4&5 3:16 - In Peter's Colonnade Sermon after the cripple was healed Peter twice said that it was "BY FAITH IN THE NAME OF JESUS" that the man was healed. NJ 6 4:10 - When challenged by what name or in whose authority the miracle was performed, Peter told the Sanhedrin that the man was healed through the Name of Jesus of Nazareth NJ7 4:12 - Peter's witness to the Sanhedrin included the timeless truth that "SALVATION IS FOUND IN NO ONE ELSE, FOR THERE IS NO OTHER NAME UNDER HEAVEN GIVEN TO MEN BY WHICH WE MUST BE SAVED." NJ8 4:17 - The Sanhedrin determined to require that the disciples would "SPEAK NO LONGER IN THIS NAME." NJ9 4:18 - The Sanhedrin charged the disciples: "N0T TO SPEAK OR TEACH AT ALL IN THE NAME OF JESUS." NJ10 4:30 - The disciples concluded their prayer for God's miraculous wonders to continue after their persecution with the words: "THROUGH THE NAME OF YOUR HOLY SERVANT JESUS." NJ11 5:28 - The disciples were arrested by the again for preaching and teaching in Christ's name. NJ12 5:40 - For a second time (Cf. 4:18) the disciples were beaten and told "NOT TO SPEAK IN THE NAME OF JESUS." NJ13 5:41 - The "NAME" of Jesus Christ was their motivation for suffering. NJ14 8:12 - Philip preached the "GOOD NEWS" of God's kingdom "AND THE NAME OF JESUS CHRIST" and then baptized the believers. NJ15 8:16 - Reference is made to the fact that Philip's ministry had been only in the name of Jesus, not recognizing the ministry of the Holy Spirit. NJ16 9:14 - Ananias argued with Jesus in his vision that Saul had authority from the chief priests "TO ARREST ALL WHO CALL ON YOUR NAME." NJ17 9:15 - Christ answered Ananias by saying: "THIS MAN IS MY CHOSEN INSTRUMENT TO CARRY MY NAME BEFORE THE GENTILES." NJ18 9:16 - Christ told Ananias that Paul would "SUFFER FOR MY NAME." NJ19 9:21 - In Damascus the believers were amazed at Saul's conversion: "ISN'T HE THE MAN WHO RAISED HAVOC IN JERUSALEM AMONG THOSE WHO CALL ON THIS NAME?" NJ20 9:27 - Barnabas introduced Saul to the disciples in Jerusalem as one to whom the Lord had spoken and who "IN DAMASCUS HE HAD PREACHED FEARLESSLY IN THE NAME OF JESUS." NJ21 9:28 - In Jerusalem Saul even got into trouble with Greek speaking Jews because he was "SPEAKING BOLDLY IN THE NAME OF THE LORD."
NJ22 10:43 - Peter told Cornelius that Jesus had "COMMANDED US TO PREACH TO THE PEOPLE" so that "EVERYONE WHO BELIEVES ON HIM RECEIVES FORGIVENESS OF SINS THROUGH HIS NAME." NJ23 10:48 - Peter, using the "Keys of the Kingdom" "ORDERED THAT THEY BE BAPTIZED IN THE NAME OF JESUS CHRIST." NJ24 15:17 - James applied the Amos 9:12 text to the question of the Gentiles "seeking the Lord" because they "BEAR MY NAME." NJ25 15:26 - The Jerusalem Council drafted a letter to be sent by Paul and Barnabas to the Gentile believers in Antioch, Syria, and Cilicia. Paul and Barnabas were chosen because they had "RISKED THEIR LIVES FOR THE NAME OF OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST." NJ26 16:18 - Paul was being harassed for many days by a demon-possessed girl at Philippi. He said to the spirit: "IN THE NAME OF JESUS CHRIST I COMMAND YOU TO COME OUT OF HER." NJ27 19:5,6 - Twelve disciples of John the Baptist were baptized in the name of Jesus Christ and experienced an echo of Pentecost -- an "EPHESIAN PENTECOST" of sorts. NJ28&29 19:13 - Every valid miracle of Jesus can be fabricated and used to selfish ends. People who want power, control, or prestige can use the name of Jesus as did 7 sons of Sceva. NJ30 19:17 - The incident involving those who would misuse the Name of Jesus brought about a new respect for the Name of Jesus. NJ31 21:13 - At the CAESAREA home of Evangelist Philip, Paul was warned again not to go to Jerusalem. "WHY ARE YOU WEEPING AND BREAKING MY HEART? I AM READY NOT ONLY TO BE BOUND, BUT ALSO TO DIE IN JERUSALEM FOR THE NAME OF THE LORD JESUS." NJ32 22:16 - Paul gave his testimony to an unbelieving and hostile crowd in Jerusalem. He repeated the words of the risen Lord Who appeared to him in a vision on the Damascus road: "GET UP, BE BAPTIZED AND WASH YOUR SINS AWAY, CALLING ON HIS NAME." NJ33 26:9 - In yet another setting before Agrippa at Caesarea Paul repeated his testimony again: "I, TOO, WAS CONVINCED THAT I OUGHT TO DO ALL THAT WAS POSSIBLE TO OPPOSE THE NAME OF JESUS OF NAZARETH." Cf. 1 Corinthians 1:2 & Philippians 2:10. Names of God
The NAME of the Lord is a strong tower: the righteous run into it, and is safe. Proverbs 18:10
God has revealed Himself to us in His Word through titles, descriptions, and names. Every one of them not only has a meaning, but also a purpose. As we call upon His Name, we shall be saved, delivered, healed, and made whole!
Each Name of God on these pages is an actual link to the Bible Scripture where you may locate it in the Word of GOD. The Bible references are provided by Bible Gateway. We give ALL the Glory to our Mighty GOD for giving us this lofty idea!
Save this page in your favorites for a handy reference whenever you need to call upon the Name of the Lord to receive whatever that particular Name promises.
We pray in Jesus' Name that the Anointing of our Faithful High Priest overflow in you as you meditate, speak and act on His Word. Lord ... Believe in His Name ... Chosen Cornerstone ... Consolation of Israel ... Faithful Witness ... Good News ... Holy One of God ... Holy Spirit ... I Am the Lord ... Image of God ... Messiah ... Son of God ... Son of the Living God ... Spirit of Truth ... Visible Image of the Invisible God ... The Word ... Praise His Name ... Exalted ... Dearly Loved Son ... Breath of the Almighty ... First ... Gift ... God of our Salvation ... Lamb ... Lilly of the Valley ... The Lord is in this Place ... Lord Your God ... My Father's God ... Rose of Sharon ... Worthy of Praise ... Your God ... His Name Endures Forever ... Almighty One ... Alpha and Omega ... The Amen ... Ancient of Days ... Eternal King ... Everlasting Father ... Everlasting Light ... First and Last ... God of your Ancestors ... New Branch ... One Who Lives Forever ... Ruler ... Lord Jesus ... Word of Life ... Forgiveness in His Name ... Sacrifice ... Deliverer ... Eternal Spirit ... Friend of Sinners ... God Who Forgives ... Jesus our Mediator ... Lamb of God ... Merciful and Gracious God ... Prophet of the Most High ... My Righteous Servant ... Sacrifice for Our Sins ... Radiance of God's Glory ... Strong Saviour ... Pray in His Name ... Sovereign Lord ... Dear Father (Abba) ... Faith In Jesus Name ... Jesus ... Last Adam ... Seed of a Woman ... Son of David and Abraham ... Firstborn Son ... Immanuel ... Carpenter ... Lord and Savior Jesus Christ ... Good Teacher ... Gift of God ... Head of His Body ... Prince of Peace ... Savior of All People ... Spirit of Jesus ... Our Advocate ... Author and Perfecter of our Faith ... My Servant Jehovah-Rophe ~ My Healer Jehovah-Jireh ~ My Provider Jehovah-Nissi ~ My Protector Jehovah-Rohi ~ My Shepherd © by Virgil Reeve ~ 2010. All rights reserved, but permission is granted for the free use where Jesus Christ is the Matthew 11:28-30 "Teacher" and the goal is: "all to the glory of God!" 1 Corinthians 10:31. |