Our free 12-lesson Bible Study Course is designed to walk you through the basic lessons of the Bible. We can develop an overview of why it was written, its major theme or themes and an outline. As you do, you may want to group the scriptures into categories that answer the questions what, why, when, who, where and how. This can be done with dozens of other booklets. How did He react to situations when He was challenged? When He was very tired? It's during this time period that formal missionary work began. What about marriage or the doctrine of the Old and New Covenants? Understand how this attack rages in full force today. We have not seen many mountains moving out of their places. Flurry comes against FOX25 for news report on PCG. The King James Version is the most accurate English translation, but, written nearly 400 years ago, it does have some hard-to-understand expressions. After all, according to Paul in 1 Corinthians 13, love is known by its actions more than its words. So, Jesus proved He had the authority to say, I forgive you, by doing something harder. This course has been designed to guide you through a systematic study of your Biblethe Bible is the only textbook. When we understand Christ's reference to Eliakim, that He is now fulfilling that role, we can understand the open door without having to force anything. The biblical city was located about 28 miles southeast of the city of Sardis. He and his wife, Debbie, have served in the ministry for more than 43 years. Notice, however, that they have "a little strength"they are weak. Whatever you love more than God is your idol. When the apostle Paul wrote to his young pastoral protg, Timothy, he told him to show integrity in doctrine, to be incorruptible in belief and in actions. Well enough to teach them to others? Wayne Turgeon Dec. 30, 2022 What Is the Unpardonable Sin? If Jesus, the Son of God, needed to go to His Father in prayer for strengthening and guidance, how much more do we (Psalm 32:6)? Instead of waiting months to receive four lessons and a test in the mail, paying to ship the completed test, and starting the wait all over again, Bible course students can now log in to the Herbert W. Armstrong College Bible Correspondence Course website and progress through the lessons and tests much more quickly. Notice what Jesus says in Luke 11:9-10, 13: So I say to you, ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you. America is full of them. You dont have to go to heathen lands today to find false gods. Colossians 3:5. The Bible correspondence course is at the foundation, booklets and articles are on top of that, and Mystery of the Ages is the capstone., The launch date for the course website came exactly 27 years after the Philadelphia Church of God began. Special News Report on Philadelphia Church of God. Thats the way He cares for us tooevery day, all year long, always. In Philadelphia, the Church of God has been dedicated to serving neighbors by hosting Bible seminars, family events and smile campaigns. Hello golden streets, glorified bodies, endless days, and the fresh air of New Jerusalem! Jonah was a disobedient prophet. Bible Study | pastor | Enon Tabernacle Baptist Church Philadelphia PA A Place Where People Encounter God Family Fellowship and Bible Study Reverend Dr. Alyn E. Waller, Senior. Temptation is not sin; yielding to temptation is. Church of God Photos See all Videos See all 13:15 Fly over! Bible study is one of those assignments! The words of the Bible are Gods thoughts in print (2 Timothy 3:16). A concordance is a time-saving toolparticularly Strongs Exhaustive Concordance, because it lists every word used in the Bible and groups all the scriptures together that use that same word. (Luke 18:8). In Revelation 3:8, the phrase "open door" is being used, not so much as an opportunity, but as a reward. The rapture of the church is the subject of three passages in the New Testament: John 14:1-3, 1 Corinthians 15:51-54, and 1 Thessalonians 4:13-17 our scripture reading for this morning, none of these passages speak of judgment, but instead speak of the church being taken up to heaven. [The Lord] loves, and cares, and sympathizes, and understands, and seeks, and saves, and forgives, and helps, and encourages, and walks by our side taking care of us in life when we cant take care of ourselves. We might think that, if Jesus was truly divine, He would have had no need to pray for knowledge, guidance, or help. Note for example what the Holman Bible Dictionary says about Laodicea: Laodicea was well known in the ancient world for its wealth [see Revelation 3:17]. Integrity of heart is indispensable. But with Jonah, the second time was because Jonah had failed to speak Gods word the first time. Keep in mind that God cannot lie (Titus 1:2), and meditate on these promises when you need a spiritual boost! In the middle of lifes battles, were tempted to question Gods ordering of our circumstances, but every follower of Christ can look back and see the conspicuous hand of Gods Providence. How to Speak the Truth in Love in a Hostile World. Thus, the One they seek responds, giving more of His Spirit. Let thy hope of heaven master thy fear of death. The world is very confused about Satan, sin, worldliness and hell. Are you a whole person or a fractioned person today? Even if they get their lessons in the mail, we hope they will take tests online to be scored immediately so they can get on with the course.. Sample doctrines include the three resurrections, born again, the soul and salvation. The question is never whether God is willing but whether man is willing. The word heaven itself implies that our eternal destiny is somewhere up there in the heavens. He listed them in verses 710. The ancient city of Philadelphia, which sits near the Cogamus River, is 44 kilometers (27 miles) from Sardis and 77 kilometers (48 miles) from Laodicea. It is profound, describing where we approach in spirit when we pray. Although Philadelphia is the only church as a whole that Jesus promises to rescue from the hour of temptation, He reveals that among those taken to heaven will be some from Sardis (Rev. That event is a beautiful example of the willingness of God. Biographies. EDMONDIndividuals who want to learn about the Bible can now do so online, as the 36-lesson Herbert W. Armstrong College Bible Correspondence Course went live this afternoon. When you see opportunities to care for creationnature or your own bodydo so as a way of glorifying the Creator. by King Attallus of Pergamum, whose nickname was Philadelphus, which means "lover of a brother." Once enrolled, students can download lessons, submit tests, view their automatically graded scores and track their progress. They are idolatry, immorality, infidelity, and disloyalty. He is also true in the sense that he is faithful and trustworthy. When He told the man that his sins were forgiven (and by extension, he was healed), He was criticized. There is no cost or obligationever. Or do you graciously say, Thank you, in a spirit of genuine appreciation and humility? A doctrine is a teaching or that which is taught. Together they comprise the Churchs body of beliefs. Spiritual disciplines are essential to a more vibrant spiritual life and knowing God more intimately. And we see these two churches as the models throughout all of church history of good, solid, regenerate, faithful churches. If we neglect Bible study, however, we simply cannot grow sufficiently to be born into His Family. John had a profound understanding of Jesus Christ. For example, Paul lists nine qualities related to the fruit of the Spirit in Galatians 5:22-23. Nevertheless, in todays world, Bible helps can be usefulprimarily in matters of translation and as time-saving tools. God tells us to study His Word because He knows its good for us. Knowing something about the historical city of Laodicea enhances our understanding of the language Christ chose to correct it. Herbert W. Armstrong College site allows users to study lessons, take tests online. It can be found in Gods holy day plan! The Church of God in Philadelphia. Daniels three friends in Babylon demonstrated integrity when they were threatened with being burned alive (Daniel 3:16-18). That is integrity. (Romans 9:1-4). Please browse around our website for various information about our church. When Gods mandates go unfulfilled on earth, Gods glory is diminished. The homepage of the Herbert W. Armstrong College Bible Correspondence Course, Armstrong International Cultural Foundation. What is the Great White Throne Judgment in Revelation? But well soon put aside the tent of our earthly body, and what a relief! Hello heaven! But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. How can we remain steadfast in our faith and avoid the pressures of this ever-changing world? Though mankind was given the mandate to have dominion over (that is, to care for) all of creation, we have not done a good job. If pride expands ones importance, does humility deflate ones importance? It is nearly 70 ms. e. of Smyrna and about the same distance n.e. Today, these churches occupied the areas that ranged from Asia Minor to present-day Turkey. Philadelphia, the city of brotherly love. Flurry's Fury Unleashed! Launched in 1888, features include: In-depth teaching on a wide range of key Bible topics Bible-based comment on contemporary culture and current affairs Interviews with, and updates from, Christians involved in the Lord's work Personal testimonies of salvation and spiritual growth faithful also in much. The new website allows students to bypass the wait for receiving tests and lessons through the mail system and for submitting their test answers using the same method. It is said that you truly understand a subject when you can explain it to someone else. There are hundreds of such subjects! Let no one say when he is tempted, "I am tempted by God"; for God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does He Himself tempt anyone. Many other Bible prophecies have already been fulfilled and are substantiated by . This is the era of Revival in the church. of Ephesus. The treasury of Scripture will enrich your mind, refocus your goals, replace your doubts, and redirect your pathbut only if you read it and heed it. Welcome to our Philadelphia church website! Robert Murray McCheyne, an early 19th-century pastor and preacher in Scotland, created this well-known reading plan. We continue looking at the seven messages in Revelation 2-3. from Jesus to the churches of Asia. Then review them at least one more time, perhaps the following Sabbath before services. And it also happened to Jonah: The word of the Lord came to Jonah the first time (Jonah 1:1) and then the second time (Jonah 3:1). Good communication is not one-sided. Hello Jesus! John W. Ritenbaugh If you require more immediate assistance please visit our "Contact Us" page. It also highlights the parallels with the modern-day spiritual Laodiceans. In periods of modern droughts, aerial photographs document the receding water levels in reservoirs around the stateshorelines growing wider and drier as water levels fall. God has seen to it that His Church is well-fed. 6. Bible study builds up our faith. 2. We are among the generation addressed by Jesus: "When the Son of Man comes, will He find faith on the earth?" The Christians victory is through Christ. The Christ, the Author and Answer (3:7b) Once again our risen Lord presents Himself in an aspect of His person and work which is fitting to the needs and problems of the assembly to ever remind us of the sufficiency of His life. The Bereans "received the word with all readiness, and searched the Scriptures daily to find out whether these things were so" (Acts 17:10-11). Royal Vision articles. Revelation 3:7, however, is clear that the key of David belongs, not to the church, but to the One who is holy and true, Jesus Christ. A way to reinforce the teaching we receive is to study the notes thoroughly within 24 hours. Follow Abrahams example as a faithful father by deepening your friendship with God. Almighty God's words say, " The church of Philadelphia has taken shape, which is entirely due to the grace and mercy of God. Both the American and British Bible Societies were organized during . . But he never concluded his third epistle. This is what He compliments them for being, meaning they have a commendable measure of obedience. But they also know that the only way to endure courageously (Revelation 3:10) is to seek the strength of God. Thats the view given by most English dictionariesa deemphasis on ones own importance. This is God's word. 8 I know your deeds. God commissioned Jonah to go east to Assyria, to the capital of Nineveh and deliver a message of judgment. Behind the city are volcanic cliffs which the locals call 'inkwells.' A person of integrity obeys the whole counsel of God every day, in every circumstance. We serve the same God who said: And the Lord, He is the One who goes before you. Oh, to see the glory of the Lord while in the midst of the disappointments in life. Lets review a few of the many blessings that flow from studying Gods Word. Only God has the words that shed light on the straight and narrow path leading to eternal life. The spiritual battle, the loss of victory, is always in the thought-world. Although Christ addressed Revelation 3:7-13 to the church in Philadelphia as a body, His encouragement applies to every believer, then and now. 3:4). The Greatest Questions. The God of grace loves to forgive. Television Program. M. S. Kimber in The Sunday School World, 1893, I think it is right to refresh your memory as long as I live in the tent of this body, because I know that I will soon put it aside. However, if we study the scriptures referred to and use them as a basis to construct an outline of the booklet, chapter by chapter, we will have a pretty good synopsis of the booklet based on the scriptures. It appears the ancient church took that name to heart. It surely evoked deep introspection among the believers in that ancient city and, we trust, a repentant spirit. The apostle Paul addressed that question in 1 Corinthians 10:11"Now all these things happened to them as examples, and they were written for our admonition." Paul wanted Timothy to hold fast to the truth of God, not allowing himself to be divided. If our prayers are getting stale and were running out of things to say, maybe were not listening enough. Notes from Sabbath services and Bible studies. The church at Smyrna, the church at Philadelphia were faithful, godly, loyal, effective. r/Christianity Did a Bible study devotional today on 1 Corinthians 12, 13:7 on One body, Many Members in the body of Christ also looking into the meaning of Love before the BMX learning stream to somehow attempt to plant or sow any seeds of faith for the Lord Jesus Christ He healed the mans paralysis. They are not those who seek after earthly glory, like Shebna, but they are faithful in their responsibilities to the Most High God, like Eliakimand like Jesus Christ. The letter to the church in Philadelphia begins with Christ identifying himself as "holy and true" (3:7). Do any of them have problems similar to ours? God is far more willing to save sinners than sinners are to be saved. Using a concordance, one can search out key words related to any one of these doctrines. You know the storyJonah ended up in the sea where he was swallowed by a great fish. Have we studied in detail what the Bible says about prayer, fasting, trials and overcoming? A vital reason to study is that it enhances our prayers with God. Joshua had the confidence and courage to lead Gods people into the Promised Land because He believed in Gods promise and presence. After the pcgs information services department completed the mammoth task of rolling out a new contact management system, Cedar, in May, programmers, graphic designers and writers continued the online Bible course project in earnest. Martin Collins explains that Scripture defines virtue as a strength or power that disciplined people use to produce beautiful traits of goodness. Pauls topic is the grace given by God to each Christian to serve in the Body of Christ. For whatsoever things were written aforetime were written for our learning, that we through patience and comfort of the scriptures might have hope (Romans 15:4). Deuteronomy 11:12, In a letter to Brigadier General Thomas Nelson, George Washington marveled at how Gods hand had protected him and given success to the cause of liberty: The hand of Providence has been so conspicuous in all this, that he must be worse than an infidel that lacks faith, and has not gratitude enough to acknowledge his obligations.. With the other prophets, the second time meant additional prophetic utterances they were to deliver. What Is Your Area of Weakness? Think of every promise as a precious stone. How the church actually got started is unknown. Today we look at the sixth church: the church in Philadelphia. Church at Philadelphia See the words about Jesus in the Gospels as sparkling like diamonds. A fifth reason for studying the Bible is to be able to do God's Work. Laodicea was also known for its medical school which concocted a spice nard for the treatment of ears and an eye salve [see Revelation 3:18, anoint your eyes with eye salve]. Perhaps only one name does fit somewhat: Laodicea, which means "judgment of the people.". Bible study helps are not necessary to become well acquainted with the Bible and Gods way of life. Useful knowledge will always humble us and prepare us to be in Gods Family. Bible study gives us something that this world desperately needs. Flurry said. Moreover, the fruit of this interpretation has been exclusivity, comparing ourselves among ourselves, division, competition, and a pitiful supply of loveworks of the flesh rather than fruit of the Spirit. What he opens no one can shut, and what he shuts no one can open. Jesus Christs sacrifice for sin is essential for salvation! This king had a special devotion to his brother, Eumenes II. The Philadelphia Trumpet began in February 1990 and is published 10 times a year by the Philadelphia Church of God. The revival movement permanently affected Protestantism as adherents strove to renew individual piety and religious devotion. It is elevated above the valley, on the n.e. Genesis 1:28. God may have given him only two talents, but He knows that if he is faithful with a small amount of power, in the Kingdom he will faithfully administer all of the responsibility and effectiveness that God bestows upon him. The moment we resolve to stand strong and walk away is when temptation grows most intense. We invite you to attend Sabbath services with us! What does God think of that? Australia and the Philippines, campers participate in athletic activities, Bible studies and a wide variety of social and educational activities during the two to three-week camp. we will have at least 30 scriptural passages identifying an end-time prophet who has to be on the scene just prior to Christs Second Coming. With that in mind, the sermon on the mount, for example, takes on a deeper perspective. That its the same old routine day in and day out? As far as a good education spiritually, what else do we have that compares to the Bible correspondence course? Peter wrote his final letter shortly before his execution. Message to Philadelphia Revelation 3:7-13. If you want to buy some Bible helps but cant normally afford to, consider using second tithe at the Feast to start your collection and spend an afternoon browsing a Bible bookstore. We have a purpose for being hereto refresh the memory of others regarding the things of the Lord. We cannot go through life without being hurt by others, so we should learn to forgive. This is not a put-down but an honest appraisal. Over 98,000 students from around the world have enrolled in this unique, 36-lesson course of biblical understanding. David C. Grabbe The 'Open Door' of Philadelphia, There is criticism or maybe it is simply a statement of fact. Acts 19:10 )." It was like his soul was being evaporated by the heat of his own guilt and shame. The First Great Awakening (sometimes Great Awakening) or the Evangelical Revival was a series of Christian revivals that swept Britain and its thirteen North American colonies in the 1730s and 1740s. We sponsor the global broadcast of the "Tomorrow's World" television programa weekly half-hour telecast explaining the end-time prophecies of the Bible, announcing the good news of the Kingdom of God, and spreading the teachings of Jesus Christ. Finally, Halleys Bible Handbook is generally a good, concise resource. The door Christ opens to the Philadelphian, the door no man can shut, may well be the door to the Kingdom itself! Doctrines. When we tune in to God and listen to His words, our faith increases (Romans 10:17). Young's Literal Translation shows this emphasis: "I have known thy works; lo, I have set before thee a dooropened, and no one is able to shut it, because thou hast a little power, and didst keep my word, and didst not deny my name" (emphasis ours). name of his foundation means "brotherly love.". | Philadelphia Church of God Bible Correspondence Course Website Launches on 27th PCG Anniversary Herbert W. Armstrong College site allows users to study lessons, take tests online. Can we explain the details of the gospel, the Kingdom of God, the Millennium and Gods government? The Holy Spirit is the means by which the Father and the Son dwell within the adopted sons of God. Youll be elated with what you discover! This church may picture the modern missionary era of church history. ), the king of Pergamum. Attention Conservation Notice: A long take on why I left a small, cult religious group that I grew up in. Thats just when God appeared to him as he was among the exiles by the Kebar River. It begins with the tremendous help available to those who are weak, but who keep God's Word, who do not deny His name, and who persevere in faith. 5. He spoke of looking forward to these things. and [looking] for new heavens and a new earth in which righteousness dwells (2 Peter 3:13-14). Are You a Prisoner of Your Spiritual Comfort Zone. Those same words are each used in many other places in the New Testament. The way to cover our sin is to uncover it by confession. We have the promises of God to help us in difficult days, and we have the Holy Spirit within us. Forerunner, "Bible Study," April 2000. Theyre building a palace for me over there. See, I have placed before you an open door that no one can shut. There is always a righteous choice to be made if we are willing to seek it.