The Holy Bible.

     Pictured to the left is a copy of a version of the Holy Bible, known as the New Revised Standard Version ( NRSV ).  Proverbs 16:32 reads as follows:

"32 One who is slow to anger is better than the mighty, and one whose temper is controlled than one who captures a city."

Solomon ( see 10:1 ) wrote of the requirement of controlling one's temper ( as we read in verse thirty-two, above ).

     Implied, here, are two aspects of doing so: (1) one's strength of will; and (2) a strategy for dealing with anger.  How determined are you, the reader, to avoid a sinful ( see Psalm 119:65-73, 142, and 151; John 17:1, 3, and 17; 2 Timothy 2:15; 3:16, 17; and 1 John 3:4, for example ) outburst of wrath ( see Galatians 5:20; NKJV ), for example?  Moreover, James, the half-brother of Jesus, provides us with a plan for dealing with anger in ( 1:19 ), which reads as follows: "19 You must understand this, my beloved: let everyone be quick to listen, slow to speak, slow to anger."

     Please click on the "Full Screen" symbol, at the lower right corner of the image below, to read today's bulletin regarding the subjects of sin and self-control ( from a sexual perspective ), for example:

Also, please read the Holy Bible ( which is God's word - see Luke 8:19-21 ( especially verse 21, for example ); 11:27, 28 ( especially verse 28, for example ); and Revelation 1:1-8 ( especially verse 3, for example ), for example ).  If you have any questions about the Holy Bible, you can contact me by e-mail at:

     <rewillis1_1@juno.com>

     <Russell E. Willis>.

NOTE: You will need to close the appropriate tab ( in your web browser ), with the name of the bulletin on it, to exit the bulletin back to this weblog.

The Holy Bible.

     Pictured to the left is a copy of a version of the New Testament, known as The Expanded Bible; being entitled: New Testament: The [ expanded ] Bible: Study the Bible While You Read.  John 10:11-13 read as follows:

"11 'I am the good shepherd [contrast Zech. 11:17].  The good shepherd *gives [lays down] his life for the sheep.  12 The *worker who is paid to keep the sheep [Lhired hand] is different from the shepherd who owns them.  When the worker sees a wolf coming, he runs away and leaves the sheep alone.  Then the wolf *attacks [or snatches; seizes] the sheep and scatters them.  13 The man runs away because he is only a *paid worker [hired hand] and does not really care about the sheep.'"

Jesus also said in verse sixteen, "16 'I have other sheep that are not in this *flock [fold; pen; Ca reference to future Gentile followers of Christ], and I must bring them also.  They will listen to my voice, and there will be one flock and one shepherd'" ( please read verses one through twenty-one to get the immediate context ).

     Luke ( see 1:3 and Acts 1:1 ) recorded the following in Acts 20:28: "28 *Be careful for [Keep watch over] yourselves and for all the *people [Lflock] the Holy Spirit has *given to you to oversee [Lmade you overseers/guardians; John 21:16].  You must be like shepherds to the church of God, which he *bought [or obtained] with the *death of his own Son [Lwith the blood of his own (Son); or with his own blood]."  The New Testament church ( the church of Christ - see Matthew 16:17, 18; Romans 16:16; and Ephesians 1:15-23 ( especially verses 22 and 23, for example ), for example ) is comprised of Christians ( see Acts 2:38; 8:26-40 ( especially verses 36-39, for example ); chapter 11 ( especially verse 26, for example ); Romans 12:1-5 ( especially verse 5, for example ); and Galatians 3:26, 27, for example ).  Since the overseers, here, are to be "like shepherds to the church of God," this means that each of us, as a Christian, is a sheep.

     Jesus ( the Chief Shepherd - see 1 Peter 5:4, and see also James 1:12 and Revelation 2:10, for example ) owns us ( as is indicated in the first verse twelve, above ).  He is not merely a paid worker and will, therefore, not leave us and run away when the wolf comes.  He cares so much for us that He laid down His life for us ( see verses thirteen and eleven above, respectively, and see also Luke 23:26-49 ( especially verse 33, for example ), for example ).

     Please study the Holy Bible ( which is God's word - see John 17:1, 3, and 17 and 2 Timothy 2:15; 3:16, 17, for example ).  If you have any questions about the Holy Bible, you can contact me by e-mail at:

     <rewillis1_1@juno.com>

     <Russell E. Willis>.

NOTE: Since in-line bullets are not available in the formatting of this weblog, asterisks "*" were used to "show where to begin the replacement of a word or words before the set of brackets with the word or words within the set of brackets."  [  See New Testament, The [ expanded ] Bible, THOMAS NELSON, NASHVILLE, DALLAS, MEXICO CITY, RIO DE JANEIRO, BEIJING, The Expanded Bible, New Testament, Copyright 2009 by Thomas Nelson, Inc., p. xi.  ]

Moreover, since the superscript function is also not available in the formatting of this weblog, the smallest font size was used for the characters "L" and "C," associated with their respective markers ( or sigla ): the complete list of the ones employed in this weblog posting is provided below:

"[ ] EXPANSION: Other possible ways of translating a word, phrase, clause, or sentence. . . ."  [  Ibid.  ]

"[or] ALTERNATE: A different translation possibility that takes the meaning of the original language in a different direction than the base text does. . . ."  [  Ibid., p. xii.  ]

"L LITERAL: A more literal rendering of the original language, allowing the reader to see why translations make varying choices. . . ."  [  Ibid.  ]

"C COMMENT: Briefly provides historical, cultural, theological, or other explanatory information to help readers better understand a verse or passage. . . ."  [  Ibid.  ]

"REFERENCE: Provides cross-references to parallel passages, quotations from or allusions to another part of the Bible.  These usually appear within a bracket. . . ."  [  Ibid., p. xiii.  ]

The Holy Bible.

     Pictured to the left is a copy of a version of the Holy Bible, known as the MODERN ENGLISH VERSION ( MEV ).  Ephesians 4:25 reads as follows:

"25 Therefore, putting away lying, let every man speak truthfully with his neighbor, for we are members of one another."

There is a lie commonly told in this world that all roads lead to heaven.

     According to verse twenty-five ( above ), as Christians ( see Acts 11:26, for example ), we will not speak this, or any other, false doctrine.  The apostle Paul ( see 2 Timothy 1:1 ) wrote ( see 3:10, 11, for example, and see also Acts, chapters 13 and 14, for example ) the following in ( 3:13 ): "13 But evil men and seducers will grow worse and worse, deceiving and being deceived."  In an effort to express the truth ( and expose the above-mentioned lie ( see Ephesians 5:11, for example )), please click on the "Full Screen" symbol, at the lower right corner of the image below, to read today's bulletin regarding John 14:6, for example:

     Also, please read the Holy Bible ( which is God's word - see Luke 8:19-21 ( especially verse 21, for example ); 11:27, 28 ( especially verse 28, for example ); and Revelation 1:1-8 ( especially verse 3, for example ), for example ).  If you have any questions about the Holy Bible, you can contact me by e-mail at:

     <rewillis1_1@juno.com>

     <Russell E. Willis>.

NOTE: You will need to close the appropriate tab ( in your web browser ), with the name of the bulletin on it, to exit the bulletin back to this weblog.

The Holy Bible.

     Pictured to the left is a copy of a version of the Holy Bible, known as the MODERN ENGLISH VERSION ( MEV ).  Revelation 2:10 reads as follows:

"10 Do not fear any of those things which you are about to suffer.  Look, the devil is about to throw some of you into prison, that you may be tried, and you will have tribulation for ten days.  Be faithful unto death, and I will give you the crown of life."

Verse ten ( above ) has a cross-reference to James 1:12, which reads as follows: "12 Blessed is the man who endures temptation, for when he is tried, he will receive the crown of life, which the Lord has promised to those who love Him."

     Considering verses ten and twelve together, as Christians ( see Acts 11:26, for example ), we have been commanded by God ( see Psalm 119:65-73, 142, and 151; Ecclesiastes 12:13; John 1:1, 14; 10:30; 14:6; 17:1, 3, and 17; Romans 1:20 ( see Romans 1:20 ( KJV, for example; with center-column references, for example ) to get the equivalent translation for the word "Godhead" ); Colossians 2:8, 9; 2 Timothy 2:15; 3:16, 17; and 1 John 5:7, for example ) to be faithful to the Lord until death.  Please click on the "Full Screen" symbol, at the lower right corner of the image below, to read today's bulletin regarding the book of Revelation, for example:

Also, please read the Holy Bible ( which is God's word - see Luke 8:19-21 ( especially verse 21, for example ); 11:27, 28 ( especially verse 28, for example ); and Revelation 1:1-8 ( especially verse 3, for example ), for example ).

     If you have any questions about the Holy Bible, you can contact me by e-mail at:

     <rewillis1_1@juno.com>

     <Russell E. Willis>.

NOTE: You will need to close the appropriate tab ( in your web browser ), with the name of the bulletin on it, to exit the bulletin back to this weblog.

The Holy Bible.

     Pictured to the left is a copy of a version of the Holy Bible, known as THE NEW ENGLISH BIBLE; being entitled: THE NEW ENGLISH BIBLE WITH THE APOCRYPHA.  Psalm 139:11, 12 read as follows:

"11 If I say, 'Surely darkness will steal over me, night will close around me', 12 darkness is no darkness for thee and night is luminous as day ; to thee both dark and light are one."

To the heavenly Father ( see verse one, for example, and see also Matthew 5:9, 16; 6:9, 14, for example ), both dark and light are the same ( as indicated in verse twelve, above ).

     This passage from the Holy Bible is a basis for the concept from which night-vision technology is derived.  In the context of science and technology, it serves as a reference to the fields of electrical and mechanical engineering, for example.  True, honest science is based on what the Holy Bible teaches.

     Moreover, Solomon ( see Ecclesiastes 1:1 ) wrote the following in ( 1:9 ): "What has happened will happen again, and what has been done will be done again, and there is nothing new under the sun."  The concept, on which night-vision technology is based, is not new.  Please study the Holy Bible ( which is God's word - see Psalm 119:65-73, 142, and 151; John 17:1, 3, and 17; and 2 Timothy 2:15; 3:16, 17, for example ).

     If you have any questions about the Holy Bible, you can contact me by e-mail at:

     <rewillis1_1@juno.com>

     <Russell E. Willis>.

      

The Holy Bible.

     Pictured to the left is a copy of a version of the Holy Bible, known as the REVISED STANDARD VERSION ( RSV ).  Ecclesiastes 12:9-14 read as follows:

"9 Besides being wise, the Preacher also taught the people knowledge, weighing and studying and arranging proverbs with great care.  10 The Preacher sought to find pleasing words, and uprightly he wrote words of truth.  11 The sayings of the wise are like goads, and like nails firmly fixed are the collected sayings which are given by one Shepherd.  12 My son, beware of anything beyond these.  Of making many books there is no end, and much study is a weariness of the flesh.  13 The end of the matter; all has been heard.  Fear God, and keep his commandments; for this is the whole duty of man.  14 For God will bring every deed into judgment, with every secret thing, whether good or evil."

A synonym for the word "duty" ( which we find in verse thirteen, above ) is the word "responsibility."

     The entire responsibility of man is to fear God and keep His commandments.  If we fail to do this, then we fail to live responsibly.  Living an irresponsible life on this earth will result in eternal condemnation in hell ( see Psalm 1 ( especially verse 5 ); 5 ( especially verse 5, for example ); 6 ( especially verse 8, for example ); 119:65-73, 142, and 151; Matthew 7:21-23; 18:6-10 ( especially verses 8 and 9, for example ); Mark 9:42-50 ( especially verses 43-48, for example ); 16:15, 16; John 12:44-50 ( especially verse 48, for example ); 2 Thessalonians 1:5-10 ( especially verses 7-9, for example ); and 2 Timothy 2:15; 3:16, 17, for example ).

     Please read the Holy Bible ( which is God's word - see Luke 8:19-21 ( especially verse 21, for example ); 11:27, 28 ( especially verse  28, for example ); and Revelation 1:1-8 ( especially verse 3, for example ), for example ).  If you have any questions about the Holy Bible, you can contact me by e-mail at:

     <rewillis1_1@juno.com>

     <Russell E. Willis>.

The Holy Bible.

     Pictured to the left is a copy of a version of the Holy Bible, known as the ENGLISH STANDARD VERSION ( ESV ).  Below it is a copy of the Koran.  Psalm 145:1-4 read as follows:

"I will extol you, my God and King, and bless your name forever and ever.  2 Every day I will bless you and praise your name forever and ever.  3 Great is the LORD, and greatly to be praised, and his greatness is unsearchable.  4 One generation shall commend your works to another, and shall declare your mighty acts."

     SURA II-THE COW, verse 110, reads as follows:

"110 And they say, 'God hath a son:'  No!  Praise be to Him!  But-His, whatever is in the Heavens and the Earth!  All obeyeth Him."

The god of the Muslims ( Allah ) does not have a son ( as revealed in verse one hundred ten, above ).  The one true God of the Holy Bible ( see John 17:1-3 ( especially verse 3, for example ), for example ) has "his only begotten Son" ( see John 3:16; KJV ).

     The heavenly Father ( see Matthew 5:9, 16; 6:9, 14, for example ), and His Son Jesus, for example, can perform miracles ( see Genesis 1:1, 26, and 27; Mark 16:20; John 1:1, 14; 2:11 ( see John 2:11 ( KJV; with center-column references ) to get the equivalent translation for the word "miracles" ); 10:30; 14:6; Romans 1:20 ( see Romans 1:20 ( KJV, for example; with center-column references, for example ) to get the equivalent translation for the word "Godhead" ); 1 Corinthians 13:8-10 ( especially verse 10, for example ); Colossians 2:8, 9 ( KJV, for example ); and 1 John 5:7 ( KJV, for example ), for example, and cf. 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18 ( especially verse 16, for example ), for example ), though miracles are not occurring at this time.  Allah, on the other hand, "has no real existence" ( see 1 Corinthians 8:4 ).  Therefore, as a Christian ( see Acts 11:26, for example ), I will say ( as indicated in the first verse three, above ), "God is great!"  A similar statement made by the Muslims has no meaning.

     The Koran is not God's word ( the heavenly Father revealed nothing to Mohammed ), the Holy Bible is ( see Psalm 119:65-73, 142, and 151; John 17:17; and 2 Timothy 2:15; 3:16, 17, for example ).  Please read the Holy Bible ( see Luke 8:19-21 ( especially verse 21, for example ); 11:27, 28 ( especially verse 28, for example ); and Revelation 1:1-8 ( especially verse 3, for example ), for example ).  If you have any questions about the Holy Bible, you can contact me by e-mail at:

     <rewillis1_1@juno.com>

     <Russell E. Willis>.

The Holy Bible.

     Pictured to the left is a copy of a version of the Holy Bible, known as the REVISED STANDARD VERSION ( RSV ).  Proverbs 13:20 reads as follows:

"20 He who walks with wise men becomes wise, but the companion of fools will suffer harm."

Solomon ( see 10:1 ) teaches, here, that we must strive to keep company with wise men ( see also Romans 15:1-4 ( especially verse 4, for example ), for example ).

     The apostle Paul ( see 1 Corinthians 1:1 ) wrote ( see 9:1; 15:9; and 16:21, for example ) something very similar in ( 15:33 ): "33 Do not be deceived: 'Bad company ruins good morals.'"  As Christians ( see Acts 11:26, for example ), we must always be aware of the danger of being companions of fools.  Please click on the "Full Screen" symbol, at the lower right corner of the image below, to read today's bulletin, regarding the distinction between those who are wise, and those who are fools, for example:

     Also, please read the Holy Bible ( which is God's word - see Luke 8:19-21 ( especially verse 21, for example ); 11:27, 28 ( especially verse 28, for example ); and Revelation 1:1-8 ( especially verse 3, for example ), for example ).  If you have any questions about the Holy Bible, you can contact me by e-mail at:

     <rewillis1_1@juno.com>

     <Russell E. Willis>.

NOTE: You will need to close the appropriate tab ( in your web browser ), with the name of bulletin on it, to exit the bulletin back to this weblog.

The Holy Bible.

     Pictured to the left is a copy of a version of the Holy Bible, known as the REVISED STANDARD VERSION ( RSV ).  Isaiah 50:4 reads as follows:

"4 The Lord God has given me the tongue of those who are taught, that I may know how to sustain with a word him that is weary.  Morning by morning he wakens, he wakens my ear to hear as those who are taught."

Implied, here, is a lesson of speaking appropriate words to sustain a weary person.

     The apostle Paul ( see Colossians 1:1 ) wrote ( see 4:18, for example ) the following in ( 4:6 ): "6 Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how you ought to answer every one."  The heavenly Father ( see Matthew 5:9, 16; 6:9, 14, for example ) has commanded ( see Psalm 119:65-73, 142, and 151; Ecclesiastes 12:13; John 17:1, 3, and 17; and 2 Timothy 2:15; 3:16, 17, for example ) that we always use gracious speech.  Please click on the "Full Screen" symbol, at the lower right corner of the image below, to read today's bulletin regarding one's speech in dealing with depression, for example:

     Also, please read the Holy Bible ( which is God's word - see Luke 8:19-21 ( especially verse 21, for example ); 11:27, 28 ( especially verse 28, for example ); and Revelation 1:1-8 ( especially verse 3, for example ), for example ).  If you have any questions about the Holy Bible, you can contact me by e-mail at:

     <rewillis1_1@juno.com>

     <Russell E. Willis>.

NOTE: You will need to close the appropriate tab ( in your web browser ), with the name of the bulletin on it,  to exit the bulletin back to this weblog.

The Holy Bible.

     Pictured to the left is a copy of a version of the Holy Bible, known as the MODERN ENGLISH VERSION ( MEV ).  Matthew 5:28 reads as follows:

"28 But I say to you that whoever looks on a woman to lust after her has committed adultery with her already in his heart."

The Greek word ( Greek [ 3431 ] ) for the word "adultery," in this same passage in the King James Version ( KJV ) of the Holy Bible, is defined as follows:

"b. . . . to commit adultery with, have unlawful intercourse with another's wife:  Mt. v. 28  (Deut. v. 18; Lev. xx. 10 ;  Arstph. av. 558 ; Plat. rep. 2 p. 360 b. ; Leian. dial. deor. 6, 3 ; Aristaenet. epp. 1, 20 ; Aeshin. dial. Socr. 2, 14). . . ."  [  See THE NEW THAYER'S GREEK-ENGLISH LEXICON OF THE NEW TESTAMENT, Thayer, Joseph Henry, D.D., HENDRICKSON PUBLISHERS, PEABODY, MASSACHUSETTS  01961-3473, Copyright 1979, 1981, by Jay P. Green, Sr., p. 417.  ]    

     If you, the reader, will notice, Jesus ( see Matthew 4:23 ), in verse twenty-eight ( above ), used the phrase "already in his heart."  He did not simply end the sentence at His second use of the word "her."  Jesus teaches, here, that the physical act of adultery has not been committed, but lusting after a woman is equated to committing adultery in one's heart.

     This means that the man who views pornographic images of women has the desire, in his heart, to have unlawful intercourse with the wives of other men ( as indicated in the definition given above ), but he has not committed the physical deed.  Thus, there is no Scriptural authority for divorce ( see Matthew 19:1-12 ( especially verse 9, for example ), for example ) if a married man, for example, commits the sin ( see Psalm 119:65-73, 142, and 151; John 17:1, 3, and 17; 2 Timothy 2:15; 3:16, 17; and 1 John 3:4, for example ) of viewing pornography.  However, repentance is required ( see Luke 13:3, for example ).

     Please read the Holy Bible ( which is God's word - see Luke 8:19-21 ( especially verse 21, for example ); 11:27, 28 ( especially verse 28, for example ); and Revelation 1:1-8 ( especially verse 3, for example ), for example ).  If you have any questions about the Holy Bible, you can contact me by e-mail at:

     <rewillis1_1@juno.com>

     <Russell E. Willis>.

The Holy Bible.

     Pictured to the left is a copy of a version of the Holy Bible, known as the King James Version ( KJV ).  1 Corinthians 7:20-22 read as follows:

"20 Let every man abide in the same calling wherein he was called.  21 Art thou called being a servant? care not for it: but if thou mayest be made free, use it rather.  22 For he that is called in the Lord, being a servant, is the Lord's freeman: likewise also he that is called, being free, is Christ's servant."

The Greek word ( Greek [ 2821 ] ) for the word "calling," in verse twenty ( above ), is defined as follows:

". . . 1. a calling, calling to, [(Xen., Plat., al.)].      2. a call, invitation: to a feast (3 Macc. v. 14; Xen. symp. 1, 7);  in the N.T. everywhere in a technical sense, the divine invitation to embrace salvation in the kingdom of God, which is made esp. through the preaching of the gospel. . . ."  [  See THE NEW THAYER'S GREEK-ENGLISH LEXICON OF THE NEW TESTAMENT, Thayer, Joseph Henry, D.D., HENDRICKSON PUBLISHERS, PEABODY, MASSACHUSETTS  01961-3473, Copyright 1979, 1981, by Jay P. Green, Sr., pp. 349, 350.  ]

     Since all denominational baptisms do not result in the receiving of the Holy Spirit ( see Mark 16:15, 16; Acts 2:38, 41, and 47; 4:5-12 ( especially verses 10-12, for example ); 5:32; 8:5-25 ( especially verses 14-17, for example ); 9:1-19 ( especially verses 17 and 18, for example ); chapter 10 ( especially verses 44-48, for example ); 2 Corinthians 4:8-15 ( especially verse 13, for example ); Ephesians 4:5; and 2 Peter 1:1, for example ), they also do not save anyone.  There is no salvation to embrace in the denominational realm.  Therefore, there is no such thing as a denominational calling.

     Moreover, the phrase "called in the Lord," in the first verse twenty-two, means to be Christ's servant, a Christian ( see Leviticus 25:44, 45; Acts 8:26-40 ( especially verses 36-39, for example ); 11:19-30 ( especially verse 26, for example ); 20:28; Romans 6:1-4 ( especially verses 3 and 4, for example ); chapter 12 ( especially verses 4 and 5, for example ); 1 Corinthians 6:19, 20; 9:21; and Colossians 1:19-23 ( especially verse 20, for example ), for example ).  Thus, because there is no such thing as a denominational Christian, Baptists, Methodists, Episcopalians, and Catholics, for example, are not called in the Lord.  Please study the Holy Bible ( which is God's word - see Psalm 119:65-73, 142, and 151; John 17:1, 3, and 17; and 2 Timothy 2:15; 3:16, 17, for example ).

     If you have any questions about the Holy Bible, you can contact me by e-mail at:

     <rewillis1_1@juno.com>

     <Russell E. Willis>.

The Holy Bible.

     Pictured to the left is a copy of a version of the Holy Bible, known as the REVISED STANDARD VERSION ( RSV ).  James 1:27 reads as follows:

"27 Religion that is pure and undefiled before God and the Father is this: to visit orphans and widows in their affliction, and to keep oneself unstained from the world."

As Christians ( see Acts 11:26, for example ), one way to keep ourselves unstained from the world ( as we read in verse twenty-seven, above ) is by avoiding worldly music.

     Once one has been buried with Christ Jesus by baptism into death, he or she is raised to walk in newness of life ( see Romans 6:3, 4 ).  Our old self "was crucified with him so that the sinful body might be destroyed, and we might no longer be enslaved to sin" ( see verse six ).  This means that we stop participating in sinful ( see 1 John 3:4, for example ) activities, whatever they may be.

     Please click on the link below to read today's bulletin, regarding the subject of secular music, for example:

<http://1drv.ms/1lwzw8z>.

Also, please study the Holy Bible ( which is God's word - see Psalm 119:65-73, 142, and 151; John 17:1, 3, and 17; and 2 Timothy 2:15; 3:16, 17, for example ).  If you have any questions about the Holy Bible, you can contact me by e-mail at:

     <rewillis1_1@juno.com>

     <Russell E. Willis>.

NOTE: You will need to click on the back arrow ( on your web browser ) to exit the bulletin back to this weblog.

The Holy Bible.

     Pictured to the left is a copy of a version of the Holy Bible, known as the REVISED STANDARD VERSION ( RSV ).  1 Samuel 2:9 reads as follows:

"9 He will guard the feet of his faithful ones; but the wicked shall be cut off in darkness; for not by might shall a man prevail."

Verse nine ( above ) is a portion of Hannah's prayer ( see verses one through ten to get the immediate context ).

     The LORD's adversaries "shall be broken to pieces" ( as she prayed in verse ten ).  Psalm 37:9 ( KJV; with center-column references ) reads as follows: "9 For evildoers shall be cut off: but those that wait upon the LORD, they shall inherit the earth."  The phrase "cut off," here, has an equivalent translation, which is the word "destroyed."

     Please click on the link below to read today's bulletin, regarding the peril of the wicked, for example:

<http://1drv.ms/1QClYEe>.

Also, please study the Holy Bible ( which is God's word - see Psalm 119:65-73, 142, and 151; John 17:1, 3, and 17; and 2 Timothy 2:15; 3:16, 17, for example ).  If you have any questions about the Holy Bible, you can contact me by e-mail at:

     <rewillis1_1@juno.com>

     <Russell E. Willis>.

NOTE: You will need to click on the back arrow ( on your web browser ) to exit the bulletin back to this weblog.

       

The Holy Bible.

     Pictured to the left is a copy of a version of the Holy Bible, known as THE NEW ENGLISH BIBLE; being entitled: THE NEW ENGLISH BIBLE WITH THE APOCRYPHA.  2 Chronicles 28:16-27 read as follows:

"16 At that time King Ahaz sent to the king of Assyria for help.  17 The Edomites had invaded again and defeated Judah and taken away prisoners ; 18 and the Philistines had raided the cities of the Shephelah and of the Negeb of Judah and had captured Beth-shemesh, Aijalon, and Gederoth, as well as Soco, Timnah, and Gimzo with their villages, and occupied them.  19 The LORD had reduced Judah to submission because of Ahaz king of Judah ; for his actions in Judah had been unbridled and he had been grossly unfaithful to the LORD.  20 Then Tiglath-pileser king of Assyria marched against him and, so far from assisting him, pressed him hard.  21 Ahaz stripped the house of the LORD, the king's palace and the houses of his officers, and gave the plunder to the king of Assyria ; but all to no purpose.  22 This King Ahaz, when hard pressed, became more and more unfaithful to the LORD ; 23 he sacrificed to the gods of Damascus who had defeated him and said, 'The gods of the kings of Aram helped them ; I will sacrifice to them so that they may help me.'  But in fact they caused his downfall and that of all Israel.  24 Then Ahaz gathered together the vessels of the house of God and broke them up, and shut the doors of the house of the LORD ; he made himself altars at every corner in Jerusalem, 25 and at every single city of Judah he made hill-shrines to burn sacrifices to other gods and provoked the anger of the LORD the God of his fathers.  26 The other acts and all the events of his reign, from first to last, are recorded in the annals of the kings of Judah and Israel.  27 So Ahaz rested with his forefathers and was buried in the city of Jerusalem, but was not given burial with the kings of Judah.  He was succeeded by his son Hezekiah."

Although, under the New Testament ( see Matthew 6:11; Romans 10:1-4 ( especially verse 4, for example ); 15:1-4 ( especially verse 4, for example ); Galatians 4:30; and Colossians 2:6-15 ( especially verses 13 and 14, for example ), for example ), the heavenly Father's ( see Matthew 5:9, 16; 6:9, 14, for example ) nation is not physical, but spiritual ( the New Testament church, the church of Christ - see Matthew 16:17, 18; Acts 2:38, 41, and 47 ( KJV, for example ); Romans 6:1-4 ( especially verses 3 and 4, for example ); 12:1-5 ( especially verses 4 and 5, for example ); 16:16 ( KJV, for example ); Ephesians 1:15-23 ( especially verses 22 and 23, for example ); Colossians 1:13-20 ( especially verse 20, for example ); Hebrews 10:19-25 ( especially verse 22, for example ); and 1 Peter 1:1, 2, for example ), there are some similarities that become evident when comparing the situation under Ahaz, king of Judah ( as described above ), with the current situation here in America.

     The sin of the legalization of marijuana ( see 1 Peter 5:8 ( RSV, for example ) and 1 John 3:4, for example ), the sin of abortion ( see Romans 13:9, for example ), the sin of homosexuality ( see Leviticus 18:22; Romans 1:18-27 ( especially verses 24-27, for example ); and 1 Corinthians 6:18-20 ( especially verse 18, for example ), for example ), Russia's aggression in the Middle East, and America's declining influence in the world, for example, seem to point to God providentially  ( see Mark 16:19, 20 ( especially verse 20, for example ) and 1 Corinthians 13:8-13 ( especially verses 8-10, for example ), for example, and cf. 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18, for example ) relegating this country to a role of submission ( see the first verse nineteen ).  If He appoints ( see Romans 13:1; NKJV, for example ) a woman to the White House in 2016, this may well signal His intention of continuing this trend of submission for America.  If that be the case, it will only be fitting that a woman represent a submissive America in His eyes, and the eyes of the world ( see Psalm 33:13 and Romans 14:7, for example ).

     Please study the Holy Bible ( which is God's word - see Psalm 119:65-73, 142, and 151; John 17:1, 3, and 17; and 2 Timothy 2:15; 3:16, 17, for example ).  If you have any questions about the Holy Bible, you can contact me by e-mail at:

     <rewillis1_1@juno.com>

     <Russell E. Willis>.

NOTE: This is a lesson from the Holy Bible and, as such, it must be shared.

The Holy Bible.

     Pictured to the left is a copy of a version of the Holy Bible, known as the MODERN ENGLISH VERSION ( MEV ).  Ephesians 5:11 reads as follows:

"11 And do not have fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness; instead, expose them."

Additionally, a quotation concerning the false doctrine of original sin is as follows:

"This is the Calvinistic doctrine, of TOTAL HEREDITARY DEPRAVITY, which says that the sin of Adam and Eve is imputed to every human being so that when babies are born, they are totally depraved and lost in sin; even before they know right from wrong, or commit any act.  John Wesley said: '. . . we are condemned before we have done good or evil; under the curse ere we know what it is,' (Wesley on Original Sin, P. #340)."  [  See Calvinism, Berkley, Warren E., QUEST FOR TRUTH, PRECEPTOR CO., P.O. BOX 22283, BEAUMONT, TX 77720, p. 8.  ]

     Ezekiel 18:20 reads as follows:

"20 The soul who sins shall die.  The son shall not bear the punishment of the iniquity of the father, nor shall the father bear the punishment of the iniquity of the son.  The righteousness of the righteous shall be upon himself, and the wickedness of the wicked shall be upon himself."

Moreover, Philippians 2:12 reads as follows:

"12 Therefore, my beloved, as you have always obeyed, not only in my presence, but so much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling."

In verses twenty and twelve, given immediately above ( respectively ), we see the concept of personal responsibility being taught.

     The false doctrine of total hereditary depravity has just been refuted.  Each individual is personally responsible for his or her own sin, not the sin of Adam and Eve.  Knowing this, we are all personally responsible for working out our own salvation, no one can do that for us.

     Yesterday evening, on Special Report w/Bret Baier, Hillary Rodham Clinton was shown in a news segment standing behind a podium making reference to original sin.  Her false teaching has just been exposed.  Furthermore, women are not allowed to be gospel preachers, and they are not allowed to lead the worship service in any way - period ( see 1 Timothy 2:12, for example ).

     This woman has gone through so much effort to try to prove women to be better than men, only to fall into the same trap as every other politician, namely, pandering to the people to win votes rather than speaking the truth ( see Galatians 1:10 and Ephesians 4:25, for example ).  If Hillary and her Hillarians ( disciples of Hillary ) do not repent and be baptized ( see Acts 2:38, for example ), they will all suffer the vengeance of the Lord Jesus ( see 2 Thessalonians 1:5-10 ( especially verses 7-9, for example ), for example ).  This is not a partisan issue, it is a Holy Bible issue.

     Jesus ( see Matthew 4:23 ) said the following in ( 5:44 ): "44 But I say to you, love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you."  Jesus teaches us, here, how to be spiritually perfect ( please read verses forty-three through forty-eight to get the immediate context ).  I will strive to do that by praying for Hillary Rodham Clinton.

     Please study the Holy Bible ( which is God's word - see Psalm 119:65-73, 142, and 151; John 17:1, 3, and 17; and 2 Timothy 2:15; 3:16, 17, for example ).  If you have any questions about the Holy Bible, you can contact me by e-mail at:

     <rewillis1_1@juno.com>

     <Russell E. Willis>.

NOTE: I do not plan on writing anything else regarding Hillary Rodham Clinton.

The Holy Bible.

     Pictured to the left is a copy of a version of the Holy Bible, known as the MODERN ENGLISH VERSION ( MEV ).  Psalm 78:32-39 read as follows:

"32 For all this they sinned still, and did not believe despite His wondrous works.  33 Therefore He made their days vanish like a breath, and their years in trouble.  34 When He killed them, then they sought Him; they turned back and longed for God.  35 They remembered that God was their rock, and the Most High God their redeemer.  36 Nevertheless they flattered Him with their mouth, and they lied to Him with their tongues; 37 for their heart was not devoted to Him, neither were they committed to His covenant.  38 But He being full of compassion forgave their iniquity and did not destroy them.  He constantly restrained His anger, and did not stir up all His wrath; 39 for He remembered that they were but flesh, like a wind that passes away and does not return."

Asaph, here, reveals to us that the Most High God ( as we read in verse thirty-five ) is full of compassion ( as we read in verse thirty-eight ).

     In Psalm 86:15, David wrote, "15 But You, O Lord, are a God full of compassion and gracious, slow to anger, and abundant in mercy and truth."  Please click on the link below to read today's bulletin regarding the subject of compassion, for example:

<http://1drv.ms/1Ot9jUG>.

If you have any questions about the Holy Bible, you can contact me by e-mail at:

     <rewillis1_1@juno.com>

     <Russell E. Willis>.

NOTE: You will need to click on the back arrow ( on your web browser ) to exit the bulletin back to this weblog.

The Holy Bible.

     Pictured to the left is a copy of a version of the Holy Bible, known as THE NEW ENGLISH BIBLE; being entitled: THE NEW ENGLISH BIBLE WITH THE APOCRYPHA.  Acts 10:34-48 read as follows:

"34 Peter began : 'I now see how true it is that God has no favourites, 35 but that in every nation the man who is godfearing and does what is right is acceptable to him.  36 He sent his word to the Israelites and gave the good news of peace through Jesus Christ, who is Lord of all.  37 I need not tell you what happened lately all over the land of the Jews, starting from Galilee after the baptism proclaimed by John.  38 You know about Jesus of Nazareth, how God anointed him with the Holy Spirit and with power.  He went about doing good and healing all who were oppressed by the devil, for God was with him.  39 And we can bear witness to all that he did in the Jewish country-side and in Jerusalem.  He was put to death by hanging on a gibbet ; 40 but God raised him to life on the third day, and allowed him to appear, 41 not to the whole people, but to witnesses whom God had chosen in advance-to us, who ate and drank with him after he rose from the dead.  42 He commanded us to proclaim him to the people, and affirm that he is the one who has been designated by God as judge of the living and the dead.  43 It is to him that all the prophets testify, declaring that everyone who trusts in him receives forgiveness of sins through his name.'  44 Peter was still speaking when the Holy Spirit came upon all who were listening to the message.  45 The believers who had come with Peter, men of Jewish birth, were astonished that the gift of the Holy Spirit should have been poured out even on Gentiles.  46 For they could hear them speaking in tongues of ecstasy and acclaiming the greatness of God.  Then Peter spoke : 47 'Is anyone prepared to withhold the water for baptism from these persons, who have received the Holy Spirit just as we did ourselves?'  48 Then he ordered them to be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ.  After that they asked him to stay on with them for a time."

Moreover, Acts 19:1-7 read as follows:

"While Apollos was at Corinth, Paul travelled through the inland regions till he came to Ephesus.  There he found a number of converts, 2 to whom he said, 'Did you receive the Holy Spirit when you became believers?'  'No,' they replied, 'we have not even heard that there is a Holy Spirit.'  3 He said, 'Then what baptism were you given?'  'John's baptism', they answered.  4 Paul then said, 'The  baptism that John gave was a baptism in token of repentance, and he told the people to put their trust in one who was to come after him, that is, in Jesus.'  5 On hearing this they were baptized into the name of the Lord Jesus ; 6 and when Paul had laid his hands on them, the Holy Spirit came upon them and they spoke in tongues of ecstasy and prophesied.  7 Altogether they were about a dozen men."

     Trusting in Jesus of Nazareth ( see verse thirty-eight, above ) results in one receiving "forgiveness of sins through his name" ( as we read in verse forty-three ).  Additionally, once Paul told the converts into John's baptism ( see verses one through three ) that they must put their trust in Jesus ( see verse four ), they were "baptized into the name of the Lord Jesus" ( see verse five ).  In both of these passages from the Holy Bible, the receiving of the Holy Spirit is associated with trusting in Jesus of Nazareth, which means being baptized into His name, by immersion in water, for the forgiveness of one's past sins ( see Acts 2:38; 8:26-40 ( especially verses 36-39, for example; KJV, for example ); Romans 3:21-26 ( especially verse 25, for example ); 6:1-4 ( especially verses 3 and 4, for example ); and Galatians 3:26, 27, for example ).

     When one is raised from the watery grave of baptism, stating that he or she is a Baptist, for example, this one clearly shows that he or she wrongly believes that salvation is in the name of John Smyth ( see Acts 4:5-12 ( especially verses 10-12, for example ) and 2 Corinthians 4:13, for example ), for example, and, therefore, that one has put his or her trust in the wrong name: he or she has put his or her trust in the name of John Smyth, for example, rather than in the name of Jesus of Nazareth.  Since the receiving of the Holy Spirit is only associated with putting one's trust in His name, putting one's trust in the name of John Smyth, for example, does not result in the receiving of the Holy Spirit.  A similar argument can be used for all of the other denominational baptisms and, thus, all such baptisms do not result in the receiving of the Holy Spirit: the one who has been baptized in this manner has not been saved.

     This trust factor is extremely important with regard to the subject of baptism, for example.  Since all denominational baptisms involve putting one's trust in the name of a human being, rather than in the name of Jesus of Nazareth, anyone who has been given such a baptism must be rebaptized, putting his or her trust in Him, and then that one is saved.  Please study the Holy Bible ( which is God's word - see Psalm 119:65-73, 142, and 151; John 17:1, 3, and 17; and 2 Timothy 2:15; 3:16, 17, for example ).

     If you have any questions about the Holy Bible, you can contact me by e-mail at:

     <rewillis1_1@juno.com>

     <Russell E. Willis>.

NOTE: Please read the Thursday, October 29, 2015, Friday, October 30, 2015, and Saturday, October 31, 2015 entries to this weblog to find additional facts regarding this subject.  Also, sprinkling and pouring are other examples of denominational baptisms: as indicated above, all such baptisms do not save anyone.  Finally, the word "gibbet," as used in the first verse thirty-nine ( above ), is defined as follows:

". . . n.   An upright timber with a crosspiece projecting at right angles from its upper end, upon which criminals were formerly hanged; hence, any gallows. . . ."  [  See NEW ILLUSTRATED WEBSTER'S DICTIONARY Including THESAURUS of SYNONYMS & ANTONYMS, PMC Publishing Company, Inc., 118 EAST 28th STREET, NEW YORK, NY  10016, dictionary portion: pages 1-1150, Copyright 1992, by J.G. Ferguson Publishing Company, Chicago, Illinois, p. 409.  ]

The Holy Bible.

     Pictured to the left is a copy of a version of the Holy Bible, known as the ENGLISH STANDARD VERSION ( ESV ).  Matthew 28:16-20 read as follows:

"16 Now the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain to which Jesus had directed them.  17 And when they saw him they worshiped him, but some doubted.  18 And Jesus came and said to them, 'All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me.  19 Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you.  And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.'"

Moreover, Acts 8:14-17 read as follows:

"14 Now when the apostles at Jerusalem heard that Samaria had received the word of God, they sent to them Peter and John, 15 who came down and prayed for them that they might receive the Holy Spirit, 16 for he had not yet fallen on any of them, but they had only been baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus.  17 Then they laid their hands on them and they received the Holy Spirit."

     Acts 9:10-19 read as follows:

"10 Now there was a disciple at Damascus named Ananias.  The Lord said to him in a vision, 'Ananias.'  And he said, 'Here I am, Lord.'  11 And the Lord said to him, 'Rise and go to the street called Straight, and at the house of Judas look for a man of Tarsus named Saul, for behold, he is praying, 12 and he has seen in a vision a man named Ananias come in and lay his hands on him so that he might regain his sight.'  13 But Ananias answered, 'Lord, I have heard from many about this man, how much evil he has done to your saints at Jerusalem.  14 And here he has authority from the chief priests to bind all who call on your name.'  15 But the Lord said to him, 'Go, for he is a chosen instrument of mine to carry my name before the Gentiles and kings and the children of Israel.  16 For I will show him how much he must suffer for the sake of my name.'  17 So Ananias departed and entered the house.  And laying his hands on him he said, 'Brother Saul, the Lord Jesus who appeared to you on the road by which you came has sent me so that you may regain your sight and be filled with the Holy Spirit.'  18 And immediately something like scales fell from his eyes, and he regained his sight.  Then he rose and was baptized; 19 and taking food, he was strengthened.  For some days he was with the disciples at Damascus."

Acts 10:44-48 read as follows:

"44 While Peter was still saying these things, the Holy Spirit fell on all who heard the word.  45 And the believers from among the circumcised who had come with Peter were amazed, because the gift of the Holy Spirit was poured out even on the Gentiles.  46 For they were hearing them speaking in tongues and extolling God.  Then Peter declared, 47 'Can anyone withhold water for baptizing these people, who have received the Holy Spirit just as we have?'  48 And he commanded them to be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ.  Then they asked him to remain for some days."

In the first verse fourteen ( above ), Peter and John traveled from Jerusalem to Samaria ( a distance of thirty-nine miles - [  See the voice, COMPASS: THE STUDY BIBLE FOR NAVIGATING YOUR LIFE, THOMAS NELSON, NASHVILLE, DALLAS, MEXICO CITY, RIO DE JANEIRO, Compass Bible Copyright 2012 Thomas Nelson, Inc., The Voice translation Copyright 2012 Ecclesia Bible Society, p. 1152.  ] ).

     Additionally, the phrase "day's journey" ( as we find in Luke 2:44 ) is defined as follows:

"The customary though inexact measure of distance traveled in a day.  The distance varied with the terrain and with the circumstances of the traveler.  The typical day's journey of the Jews was between 20 and 30 miles, though groups generally traveled only 10 miles per day.  (See Gen. 30:36; 31:23; Ex. 3:18; 8:27; Deut. 1:2; Luke 2:44)."  [  See HOLMAN BIBLE DICTIONARY, BUTLER, TRENT C., PH.D., HOLMAN BIBLE PUBLISHERS, NASHVILLE, TENNESSEE, Copyright 1991 Holman Bible Publishers, p. 344.  ]

If we assume the group mode of travel ( provided in the definition immediately above ) to determine a day's journey for Peter and John, the time required for them to travel from Jerusalem to Samaria was four days.  This means that those in Samaria who were baptized only in the name of the Lord Jesus ( as we read in the second verse sixteen ) had to wait four days before they received the Holy Spirit ( as we read in the second verse seventeen ).

     Furthermore, the phrase "they had only been baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus" ( again, as we read in the second verse sixteen ), implies that there was another baptism involved, which was associated with the receiving of the Holy Spirit.  This would be the baptism in the name of the Holy Spirit.  Therefore, in order for the process of being baptized "in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit" ( as we read in the first verse nineteen ), with regard to those in Samaria who had received the word of God ( as we read in the first verse fourteen ), to be completed, there was a delay of four days.

     Peter and John first prayed for these people "that they might receive the Holy Spirit" ( as we read in the first verse fifteen ), and then they laid their hands on them so that they would receive Him ( again, as we read in the second verse seventeen, and see also John 10:30; Romans 1:20 ( see Romans 1:20 ( KJV, for example; with center-column references, for example ) to get the equivalent translation for the word "Godhead" ); Colossians 2:8, 9 ( KJV, for example ); and 1 John 5:7 ( KJV, for example ), for example ).  Clearly, this occasion of being baptized in the name of the Holy Spirit occurred after the baptism in the name of the Lord Jesus.  As is indicated in the third verse seventeen, Ananias laid his hands on Saul, and he regained his sight and was filled with the Holy Spirit.

     In this instance involving Ananias and Saul, the baptism in the name of the Holy Spirit occurred prior to the baptism in the name of the Lord Jesus ( see also Acts 22:12-16 ( especially verse 16, for example ) and 1 Corinthians 6:9-11 ( especially verse 11, for example ), for example ).  In verse forty-four, the Holy Spirit "fell on all who heard the word."  Afterwards ( as we read in verse forty-eight ), the baptism in the name of Jesus Christ ( see Matthew 1:16, for example ) occurred.  There was no laying on of hands involved in this latter event.

     A common theme, relating to all four of the above-given passages from the Holy Bible, is that the baptism in the name of the Holy Spirit occurs only in connection with the baptism in the name the Lord Jesus.  Since the Holy Spirit proceeds from the heavenly Father ( see Matthew 3:13-17 ( especially verse 16, for example ); 5:9, 16; 6:9, 14, for example ), this is how the baptism in the name of the Father occurred.  However, since the time that God's word was completely revealed to mankind in written form ( when the apostle John finished writing the book of Revelation ), miracles have not occurred ( cf. 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18 ( especially verses 16 and 17, for example ), for example ).  Therefore, it is no longer necessary for the Holy Spirit to miraculously proceed from the heavenly Father, because He is the truth ( see 1 John 5:6, for example ), which is what the Holy Bible is in written form ( see Psalm 119:65-73, 142, and 151; John 17:1, 3, and 17; and 2 Timothy 2:15; 3:16, 17, for example ).  God, the Father, God, the Son, and God, the Holy Spirit are all truth.

     One important lesson, to be derived from these observations, is that since baptism in the name of the Holy Spirit is only associated with baptism, by immersion in water, in the name of Jesus Christ, for the remission of one's past sins ( see Acts 2:38; 8:26-40 ( especially verses 36-39, for example; KJV, for example ); Romans 3:21-26 ( especially verse 25; KJV, for example ); 6:1-4 ( especially verses 3 and 4, for example ); and Galatians 3:26, 27, for example ), all denominational baptisms do not result in the receiving of the Holy Spirit: they are not valid.  Thus, Baptists, Methodists, Episcopalians, and Catholics, for example, have not received the Holy Spirit and, thus, they are not Christians ( see Acts 11:26, for example ).

     Concerning the receiving of the word of God in Samaria, since they had to wait four days to receive the Holy Spirit, this means that it took four days for them to complete the process of becoming Christians and, therefore, believers ( see also Acts 2: 41, 47 ( KJV, for example ); chapter 10 ( especially verses 23 and 45 ); Romans 12:1-8 ( especially verses 4 and 5, for example ); and Ephesians 1:15-23 ( especially verses 22 and 23, for example ), for example ).  Since we have the Holy Bible now and, thus, the miraculous receiving of the Holy Spirit is not necessary, there is no longer the potential for a time delay in completing the process of being baptized in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, for becoming a believer.  Whatever the case may be, there is no such thing as a denominational believer.

     Please read the Holy Bible ( which is God's word - see Luke 8:19-21 ( especially verse 21, for example ); 11:27, 28 ( especially verse 28, for example ); and Revelation 1:1-8 ( especially verse 3, for example ), for example ).  If you have any questions about the Holy Bible, you can contact me by e-mail at:

     <rewillis1_1@juno.com>

     <Russell E. Willis>.

NOTE: Please read the Thursday, October 29, 2015 and Friday, October 30, 2015 entries to this weblog to find additional facts regarding this subject. 

     

The Holy Bible.

     Pictured to the left is a copy of a version of the Holy Bible, known as the ENGLISH STANDARD VERSION ( ESV ).  Matthew 3:13-17 read as follows:

"13 Then Jesus came from Galilee to the Jordan to John, to be baptized by him.  14 John would have prevented him, saying, 'I need to be baptized by you, and do you come to me?'  15 But Jesus answered him, 'Let it be so now, for thus it is fitting for us to fulfill all righteousness.'  Then he consented.  16 And when Jesus was baptized, immediately he went up from the water, and behold, the heavens were opened to him, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and coming to rest on him; 17 and behold, a voice from heaven said, 'This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased.'"

John the Baptist's ( see Matthew 3:1, for example ) baptism was one of "repentance for the forgiveness of sins" ( as we read in Mark 1:4 ), except when he baptized Jesus, since He committed no sins ( see Hebrews 4:15, for example ).

     John's baptism of Jesus was to 'fulfill all righteousness' ( as we read in verse fifteen, above ).  Moreover, although the Holy Spirit ( see Acts 16:7, Romans 5:5; 8:9, 11, 1 Corinthians 3:16; 6:19, and Galatians 4:6, for example ) was involved in John's baptism in this one instance, the converts Paul encountered ( see Acts 19:1-7 ) were not aware of the Holy Spirit ( as we read in verse two ).  Therefore, since John's baptism of Jesus was not for the forgiveness of sins, any baptism in the name of a human being, for the forgiveness of sins ( as is the case with all denominational baptisms ), does not result in the receiving of the Holy Spirit.

     Please study the Holy Bible ( which is God's word - see Psalm 119:65-73, 142, and 151, John 17:1, 3, and 17, and 2 Timothy 2:15; 3:16, 17, for example ).  If you have any questions about the Holy Bible, you can contact me by e-mail at:

     <rewillis1_1@juno.com>

     <Russell E. Willis>.

NOTE: Please read the Thursday, October 29, 2015 entry to this weblog to find additional facts regarding this subject.  Also, there will be at least one additional entry regarding this subject in the near future.

The Holy Bible.

     Pictured to the left is a copy of a version of the Holy Bible, known as THE NEW ENGLISH BIBLE; being entitled: THE NEW ENGLISH BIBLE WITH THE APOCRYPHA.  Acts 19:1-6 read as follows:

"While Apollos was at Corinth, Paul travelled through the inland regions till he came to Ephesus.  There he found a number of converts, 2 to whom he said, 'Did you receive the Holy Spirit when you became believers?'  'No,' they replied, 'we have not even heard that there is a Holy Spirit.'  3  He said, 'Then what baptism were you given?'  'John's baptism', they answered.  4 Paul then said, 'The baptism that John gave was a baptism in token of repentance, and he told the people to put their trust in one who was to come after him, that is, in Jesus.'  5 On hearing this they were baptized into the name of the Lord Jesus ; 6 and when Paul had laid his hands on them, the Holy Spirit came upon them and they spoke in tongues of ecstasy and prophesied."

Moreover, Romans 8:1-12 read as follows:

"The conclusion of the matter is this : there is no condemnation for those who are united with Christ Jesus, 2 because in Christ Jesus the life-giving law of the Spirit has set you free from the law of sin and death.  3 What the law could never do, because our lower nature robbed it of all potency, God has done : by sending his own Son in a form like that of our own sinful nature, and as a sacrifice for sin, he has passed judgement against sin within that very nature, 4 so that the commandment of the law may find fulfilment in us, whose conduct, no longer under the control of our lower nature, is directed by the Spirit.  5 Those who live on the level of our lower nature have their outlook formed by it, 6 and that spells death ; but those who live on the level of the spirit have the spiritual outlook, and that is life and peace.  7 For the outlook of the lower nature is enmity with God ; it is not subject to the law of God ; indeed it cannot be : 8 those who live on such a level cannot possibly please God.  9 But that is not how you live.  You are on the spiritual level, if only God's Spirit dwells within you ; and if a man does not possess the Spirit of Christ, he is no Christian.  10 But if Christ is dwelling within you, then although the body is a dead thing because you sinned, yet the spirit is life itself because you have been justified.  11 Moreover, if the Spirit of him who raised Jesus from the dead dwells within you, then the God who raised Christ Jesus from the dead will also give new life to your mortal bodies through his indwelling Spirit.  12 It follows, my friends, that our lower nature has no claim upon us ; we are not obliged to live on that level."

     In the first verse two ( above ), Paul ( see the first verse one ) asked the converts if they received the Holy Spirit when they became believers.  Implied in this question is the fact that one becomes a believer at the point at which he or she receives the Holy Spirit.  His second question ( as we read in the first verse three ) focuses on the baptism they were given.

     Considering these two questions together, we arrive at the conclusion that one receives the Holy Spirit at the point of baptism ( see also Acts 5:32, for example ): it is at this point that one becomes a believer.  This means that the heavenly Father ( see Matthew 5:9, 16; 6:9, 14, for example ) considers a believer to be one who has committed his or her life to Christ ( see 2 Corinthians 5:11-17 ( especially verse 15, for example ), for example ) through the act of baptism.  Thus, one who simply believes that the Holy Bible is God's word, for example, is not a believer in His eyes.  It must also be noted that at the time the Holy Bible was completely revealed to mankind in written form ( when the apostle John finished writing the book of Revelation, "A.D. 95 or 96" [  See Holy Bible, THE NEW OPEN BIBLE STUDY EDITION, THOMAS NELSON PUBLISHERS, Nashville, Copyright 1990, 1985, 1983 by Thomas Nelson, Inc., p. 1514.  ] ), there was no longer a need for the laying on of hands to receive the Holy Spirit: the need for miracles had ceased at that point ( see Mark 16:19, 20 ( especially verse 20, for example ), John 2:11 ( see John 2:11 ( KJV, for example; with center-column references, for example ) to get the equivalent translation for the word "miracles" ), 1 Corinthians 13:8-10, 2 Peter 1:19-21, and 1 John 5:6, for example ).

     Additionally, from the converts' response ( again, in the first verse two ), we learn that the baptism of John did not involve the teaching of the Holy Spirit.  Since the time that Jesus was crucified, buried, and raised again the third day ( see 1 Corinthians 15:1-4 ( especially verses 3 and 4, for example ), for example ), baptism for the remission of sins, in the name of a human being ( in this case, John the Baptist ( again, see the first verse three; 18:25, and Matthew 3:1-12 ( especially verses 6 and 11, for example ), for example )) became obsolete ( see Romans 6:1-4 ( especially verses 3 and 4, for example ), for example ).  Since the head of a religious denomination is a human being and not Jesus Christ ( see Matthew 1:16 ( KJV, for example ); 16:17, 18, Romans 16:16 ( KJV, for example ), and Colossians 1:13-20 ( especially verse 18, for example ), for example ), all denominational baptisms are in the name of a human being ( see Acts 4:10-12 and 2 Corinthians 4:13, for example ) and are, thus, invalid.

     All such denominational baptisms do not result in the participant receiving the Holy Spirit.  Since, in this case, one has not received the Holy Spirit, that one has also not received His gift, eternal life ( see Romans 6:23, the second verse two, and 1 Corinthians 15:45, for example ).  Therefore, since Scriptural baptism results in one being saved ( see Mark 16:15, 16, for example ), one's receipt of the Holy Spirit and His gift means that he or she has been saved.  This also means that since all denominational baptisms do not result in the receiving of the Holy Spirit, they do not save anyone.  We reach the conclusion, then, that no Baptist, Methodist, Episcopalian, nor Catholic, for example, has received the Holy Spirit and is, therefore, not a Christian ( see the first verse nine ).

     Finally ( as can be determined from the first verses four and five ), trusting in Jesus means that one will be baptized in His name.  Based on the two above-given passages from the Holy Bible, we can also rightly conclude that there is no such thing as a denominational believer.  Please study the Holy Bible ( which is God's word - see Psalm 119:65-73, 142, and 151, John 17:1, 3, and 17, and 2 Timothy 2:15; 3:16, 17, for example ).  If you have any questions about the Holy Bible, you can contact me by e-mail at:

     <rewillis1_1@juno.com>

     <Russell E. Willis>.

The Holy Bible.

     Pictured to the left is a copy of a version of the Holy Bible, known as the MODERN ENGLISH VERSION ( MEV ).  Proverbs 6:23-26 read as follows:

"23 For the commandment is a lamp, and the law is light; and reproofs of instruction are the way of life, 24 to keep you from the evil woman, from the flattery of the tongue of a seductress.  25 Do not lust after her beauty in your heart, nor let her allure you with her eyelids.  26 For by means of a harlot a man is reduced to a piece of bread, and the adulteress will prey upon his precious life."

Solomon ( see 1:1 ) teaches, here, some lessons regarding the sin ( see 1 John 3:4, for example ) of adultery ( please read verses twenty through thirty-five to get the full context ).

     One of the "tools" in the seductress' "tool box" is the sin of flattery ( as we read in verse twenty-four ).  Such a woman is to be avoided, for she means only harm to the man who is enticed by her ( as we read in verses twenty-five and twenty-six ).  Please click on the link below to read today's bulletin concerning this sin, from a different perspective:

<http://1drv.ms/1GG1Pun>.

     Also, please read the Holy Bible ( which is God's word - see Luke 8:19-21 ( especially verse 21, for example ); 11:27, 28 ( especially verse 28, for example ), and Revelation 1:1-8 ( especially verse 3, for example ), for example ).  If you have any questions about the Holy Bible, you can contact me by e-mail at:

     <rewillis1_1@juno.com>

     <Russell E. Willis>.

NOTE: You will need to click on the back arrow ( on your web browser ) to exit the bulletin back to this weblog.

The Holy Bible.

     Pictured to the left is a copy of a version of the Holy Bible, known as the MODERN ENGLISH VERSION ( MEV ).  Psalm 92:7 reads as follows:

"7 Though the wicked spring up as the grass and all those who do iniquity flourish, they shall be destroyed forever."

Hillary Rodham Clinton has lied to the American people, by publicly telling us that the Benghazi incident was caused by a video, while sending private e-mail messages to others stating to them the real cause.

     Moreover, she did this when the bodies of those Americans, who were killed there, were returned to American soil.  Not only has she lied in this regard, she recently hypocritically waxed eloquent regarding the excesses of capitalism, while her and her husband, Bill, have fared nicely regarding their own finances ( they have millions of dollars to their names ).  They both must take everyone else in the world to be idiots.

     It is clear that they are both fools, for Proverbs 12:15 reads as follows: "15 The way of the fool is right in his own eyes, but he who listens to counsel is wise."  Bill and Hillary Clinton continue to insist that their way of living is right, while the public knows better.  On Fox News Sunday, yesterday, Bob Woodward stated that Hillary Clinton had committed no crime with respect to her handling of the Benghazi event.

     1 John 3:4 reads as follows: "4 Whoever practices sin breaks the law, for sin is lawlessness."  The words "sin" and "crime" are synonymous.  In the eyes of the heavenly Father ( see Matthew 5:9, 16; 6:9, 14, for example ), Hillary Clinton has committed at least the crime of dishonesty ( see Psalm 92:5; 111:2; 119:65-73, 142, and 151, John 17:1, 3, and 17, Ephesians 4:25, and 2 Timothy 2:15; 3:16, 17, for example ) concerning this situation.

     It seems that some in this country are willing to ignore Hillary Rodham Clinton's crimes against the heavenly Father, but we have all been warned: those who do iniquity "shall be destroyed forever" ( as we read in verse seven, above ).  Finally, to the issue of voting here in America, it can be rightly affirmed that we get what we vote for.  Someone has to have the courage to state the truth in writing ( see Revelation 21:8, for example ).

     Please read the Holy Bible ( which is God's word - see Luke 8:19-21 ( especially verse 21, for example ); 11:27, 28 ( especially verse 28, for example ), and Revelation 1:1-8 ( especially verse 3, for example ), for example ).  If you have any questions about the Holy Bible, you can contact me by e-mail at:

     <rewillis1_1@juno.com>

     <Russell E. Willis>. 

The Holy Bible.

     Pictured to the left is a version of the New Testament, known as The Expanded Bible; being entitled: The [ expanded ] Bible: Study The Bible While You Read.  The following quotation is taken from this version of the New Testament:

"The Bible is the most influential literary work in human history, an unparalleled collection of poetry, prose, history, narrative, laws, psalms, proverbs, prophecy, and letters.  Yet the Bible is much more than a great library.  It is also the inspired and authoritative Word of God-his message to human beings.  God speaks to us through his Word.  It is critical, therefore, that it be understood."  [  See The [ expanded ] Bible: Study the Bible While You Read, The Expanded Bible, THOMAS NELSON, NASHVILLE, DALLAS, MEXICO CITY, RIO DE JANIERO, BEIJING, The Expanded Bible, New Testament, Copyright 2009 by Thomas Nelson, Inc., p. ix.  ]

Luke 12:1-3 read as follows:

"[ LMeanwhile ] So many thousands of people had gathered that they were *stepping [ trampling ] on each other.  Jesus began to speak first to his *followers [ disciples ], saying, 'Beware of the *yeast [ leaven ] of the Pharisees, *because they are hypocrites [ Lwhich is hypocrisy; Cthe evil influence of the Pharisees was like yeast that would grow and affect everything around it; Mark 8:14-21 ].  2 Everything that is *hidden [ concealed; covered up ] will be *shown [ revealed; uncovered; disclosed ], and everything that is *secret [ hidden ] will be made known.  3 What you have said in the dark will be heard in the light, and what you have whispered *in an inner room [ or behind closed doors ] will be *shouted [ proclaimed ] from the housetops.'"

     Jesus ( see verse one, above ) teaches, here, that one's hypocrisy will be shown or made known, and his or her wicked counsel ( or schemes ) shall be exposed ( cf. Job 18:1-7 ( especially verse 7, for example ), for example; KJV ( with center-column references ) and RSV, for example ).  Please study the Holy Bible ( which is God's word - see John 17:1, 3, and 17, and 2 Timothy 2:15; 3:16, 17, for example ).  If you have any questions about the Holy Bible, you can contact me by e-mail at:

     <rewillis1_1@juno.com>

     <Russell E. Willis>.

NOTE: This version of the New Testament employs a format whereby a bullet "is used to show where to begin the replacement of a word or words before the set of brackets with the word or words within the set of brackets" [  Ibid., p. xi.  ].  Furthermore, since an in-line bullet is not available in the formatting of this weblog, an asterisk ( "*" ) was used instead.  Additionally, the markers, which appear in this weblog entry, are defined as follows:

"[ ] EXPANSION: Other possible ways of translating a word, phrase, clause, or sentence. . . ."  [  Ibid.  ]

"[ or ] ALTERNATE: A different translation possibility that takes the meaning of the original language in a different direction than the base text does. . . ."  [  Ibid., p. xii.  ]

"L LITERAL: A more literal rendering of the original language, allowing the reader to see why translations make varying choices. . . ."  [  Ibid.  ]

"C COMMENT: Briefly provides historical, cultural, theological, or other explanatory information to help readers better understand a verse or passage. . . ."  [  Ibid.  ]

"[ Passage from the Holy Bible ] REFERENCE: Provides cross-references to parallel passages, quotations from or allusions to another part of the Bible. . . ."  [  Ibid., p. xiii.  ]

     Moreover, the superscript function is also not available in the formatting of this weblog, therefore, the upper case letters "L" and "C" were simply formatted to the smallest available font size for the font used in this weblog.

NOTE2: The word "theological" ( as used in the first note, above ) is defined as follows:
". . . adj.   1  Pertaining or relating to theology.   2  Linked to, based on, or referring to divine revelation.   3  Pertaining to the exposition or expounders of theology. . . ."  [  See NEW ILLUSTRATED WEBSTER'S DICTIONARY Including THESAURUS of SYNONYMS & ANTONYMS, PMC Publishing Company, Inc., 118 EAST 28th STREET, NEW YORK, NY  10016, dictionary portion: pages 1-1150, Copyright 1992, by J.G. Ferguson Publishing Company, Chicago, Illinois, p. 1001.  ]
The word "theology" is defined as follows:
". . . n.  pl.  -gies  1  The study of religion, culminating in a synthesis or philosophy of religion; also, a critical survey of religion, especially of the Christian religion.  2  A body of doctrines concerning God, including his attributes and relations with man; especially, such a body of doctrines as set forth by a particular church or religious group. . . ."  [  Ibid.  ]
The New Testament church ( the church of Christ - see Matthew 16:17, 18, Romans 16:16 ( KJV, for example ), and Ephesians 1:15-23 ( especially verse 22, for example ), for example ) does not establish doctrine ( as is indicated in sense two of the definition given immediately above ): this has been done by the heavenly Father ( see Matthew 5:9, 16; 6:9, 14 ( KJV, for example ), and John 3:16, 17; 7:16, 17, for example ).  Therefore, it is erroneous to use the words "theological" ( senses one and three, though sense two is acceptable if used in reference to the Holy Bible as divine revelation ) and "theology" ( as just explained, and because there is one true religion, Christianity: the Old Testament became obsolete when Jesus died on the cross of Calvary, though we can still learn from it ( see Matthew 6:11, Luke 23:26-49 ( especially verse 33, for example; KJV, for example ), John 10:30; 14:6, Romans 1:20 ( see Romans 1:20 ( KJV, for example; with center-column references, for example ) to get the equivalent translation for the word "Godhead" ); 10:1-4 ( especially verse 4, for example ); 15:1-4 ( especially verse 4, for example ), Galatians 4:30 ( cf. CJB and KJV, for example ), Colossians 2:8, 9 ( KJV, for example ), Ephesians 4:5, Hebrews, chapter 8 ( especially verse 13; NKJV, for example ); 9:12-28 ( especially verses 16-18, for example ); 10:1-25 ( especially verses 4-14, for example ), and 1 John 5:7 ( KJV, for example ), for example )).