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 )).

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 27:32 reads as follows:

"32 As they went out, they found a man of Cyrene, Simon by name.  They compelled this man to carry his cross."

This verse in the Holy Bible has a cross-reference to John 19:17: verses sixteen and seventeen read as follows:

"16 So he delivered him over to them to be crucified.  So they took Jesus, 17 and he went out, bearing his own cross, to the place called The Place of a Skull, which in Aramaic is called Golgotha."

     At the first, we find, when comparing the two above-given passages from the Holy Bible, that Simon carrying the cross of Jesus is equated with Jesus bearing His own cross.  Moreover, the phrase "bearing his own cross," in verse seventeen ( above ), has a cross-reference to Luke 14:27, which reads as follows: "27 Whoever does not bear his own cross and come after me cannot be my disciple."  Considering this latter statement of Jesus ( see verse three ) together with verse seventeen, bearing one's own cross is the same as Jesus bearing His own cross.

     This observation clearly shows that Simon, in bearing the cross of Jesus, was also bearing his own cross, which means that the military service of a Christian ( see Acts 11:26, for example ) is to bear his or her own cross, which is the same as one bearing the cross of Jesus.  Verse thirty-two, above ( and please read verses twenty-seven through thirty-two to get the immediate context ), is Scriptural authority for a military draft ( though we do not currently have one here in America ).  One conclusion, at which we must arrive, is that it is a sin ( see 1 John 3:4, for example ) to dodge such a draft.

     A second conclusion, which is based on the fact that women can be disciples of Jesus and bear their own crosses, is that Christian women can also serve in the military.  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 15, 2015 entry 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 voice; being entitled: COMPASS: THE STUDY BIBLE FOR NAVIGATING YOUR LIFE.  The following quotation is taken from this version of the Holy Bible:

"Italic type indicates words not directly tied to the dynamic translation of the original language.  These words bring out the nuance of the original, assist in completing ideas, and often provide readers with information that would have been obvious to the original audience.  These additions are meant to help the modern reader better understand the text without having to stop and read footnotes or a study guide."  [  See 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 2012 Ecclesia Bible Society, p. vii.  ]

Moreover, Titus 1:6 reads as follows:

"6 Here's what you should look for in an elder: he should be above suspicion; if he is married, he should be the husband of one wife, raise children who believe, and be a person who can't be accused of rough and raucous living."

     The phrase "if he is married," as we read immediately above, is troubling.  This same passage, in the King James Version ( KJV ) of the Holy Bible, which is the standard ( though not a perfect one ) by which all English versions of the Holy Bible are measured, reads as follows:

"If any be blameless, the husband of one wife, having faithful children not accused of riot or unruly."  Clearly, an elder is to be the husband of one wife, which means that he is married.

     The questionable phrase referenced above is an error in translation.  There is at least one other questionable phrase in this version of the Holy Bible, but it is still workable, though.  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 voice; being entitled: COMPASS: THE STUDY BIBLE FOR NAVIGATING YOUR LIFE.  Matthew 27:26-32 read as follows:

"26 So Pilate released Barabbas, and he had Jesus flogged and handed over to be crucified.  27 The governor's soldiers took Jesus into a great hall, gathered a great crowd, 28 and stripped Jesus of His clothes, draping Him in a bold scarlet cloak, the kind that soldiers sometimes wore.  29 They gathered some thorny vines, wove them into a crown, and perched that crown upon His head.  They stuck a reed in His right hand, and then they knelt before Him, this inside-out, upside-down King.  They mocked Him with catcalls.

Soldiers: Hail, the King of the Jews!

30 They spat on Him and whipped Him on the head with His scepter of reeds, 31 and when they had their fill, they pulled off the bold scarlet cloak, dressed Him in His own simple clothes, and led Him off to be crucified.  32 As they were walking, they found a man called Simon of Cyrene and forced him to carry the cross."

The word "draft" is defined as follows:

". . . . - v.t.   . . . .   2  To select and draw off, as for military service; conscript. . . ."  [  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. 294.  ]

     Moreover, the word "conscript," in the above-given definition, is defined as follows:

". . . adj.   1  Registered; enrolled.   2  Compulsorily enlisted, as a soldier or an armed force.   - n.  One who is compulsorily enrolled for military service; a draftee.   - v.t.  . . .  To force into military service; draft. . . ."  [  Ibid., pp. 213, 214.  ]

The word "Cyrene," as found in verse thirty-two ( above ), is defined as follows:

". . . a city of Libya in northern Africa (Matt.  27:32); probably modern Shahhat."  [  See BIBLE ALMANAC, PACKER, JAMES I., A.M., D.Phil., TENNEY, MERRILL C., A.M., Ph.D., and WHITE, WILLIAM, JR., Th.M., Ph.D., THE OLD-TIME GOSPEL HOUR, LYNCHBURG, VIRGINIA, Copyright 1980 by Thomas Nelson Publishers, p. 693.  ]

Thus, Simon, a man from Libya, was forced ( or drafted ) into military service by the governor's soldiers ( cf. verses twenty-seven and thirty-two ).

     Simon was a family man, for we find in Mark 15:21 that he was "the father of Rufus and Alexander."  However, the name of his wife is not mentioned in the sacred text of the Holy Bible ( see also Luke 23:26, for example ).  There is no indication in Scripture of him attempting to dodge this draft.

     His military service was singular in nature, namely, to bear the cross of Jesus.  The soldiers who drafted him were not only opposed to Jesus, they were directly involved in His crucifixion ( see verse thirty-one ).  Bearing the cross of Jesus carries with it the understanding that He is opposed to the concept of freedom of religion ( or the justifying of false religion - see Matthew 7:21-23, for example ), for example.

     Christians ( see Acts 11:26, for example ) who join the United States military will have such an influence on their fellow soldiers ( see Ephesians 4:25, for example ).  Those who are drafted ( if there is one in the future ) must do the same.  Follow Simon's 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>.

The Holy Bible.

     Pictured to the left is a copy of a version of the Holy Bible, known as the voice; being entitled: COMPASS: THE STUDY BIBLE FOR NAVIGATING YOUR LIFE.  2 Timothy 2:15 reads as follows:

"15 Timothy, do everything you can to present yourself to God as a man who is fully genuine, a worker unashamed of your mission, a guide capable of leading others along the correct path defined by the word of truth."

In order for us, as Christians ( see Acts 11:26, for example ), to meet the qualification for being a guide, as described in verse fifteen ( above ), we must first understand the word of truth.

     In Acts 8:31, the Ethiopian eunuch asked Philip, "How can I understand it unless I have a mentor?"  Philip had previously asked him if he understood the meaning of what he was reading ( see verse thirty, and please read verses twenty-six through forty to get the immediate context ).  From this passage in the Holy Bible, we see that Philip proved to be an effective mentor or guide, for example.

     We find no examples in the Holy Bible of women baptizing anyone, therefore, they have no authority to do this, since the heavenly Father ( see Matthew 5:9, 16; 6:9, 14, for example ) has not specified it in His word ( see Deuteronomy 4:2, Matthew 28:18-20, John 5:26, 27 ( KJV, for example ); 8:26; 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" ); 10:1-4 ( especially verse 4, for example ); 15:1-4 ( especially verse 4, for example ), Galatians 4:30, Colossians 2:8, 9 ( KJV, for example ); 3:17, 1 John 5:7 ( KJV, for example ), and Revelation 22:18, 19, for example ).  However, Christian women can be mentors or guides ( see Titus 2:3-5, for example ).  As Christian mentors, we must give Scriptural answers.

     Please click on the link below to read today's bulletin regarding this subject:

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

Also, please read the Holy Bible ( which is God's word - see Luke 8:19-21; 11:14-28 ( 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 ENGLISH STANDARD VERSION ( ESV ).  1 Corinthians 7:17-24 read as follows:

"17 Only let each person lead the life that the Lord has assigned to him, and to which God has called him.  This is my rule in all the churches.  18 Was anyone at the time of his call already circumcised?  Let him not seek to remove the marks of circumcision.  Was anyone at the time of his call uncircumcised?  Let him not seek circumcision.  19 For neither circumcision counts for anything nor uncircumcision, but keeping the commandments of God.  20 Each one should remain in the condition in which he was called.  21 Were you a slave when called?  Do not be concerned about it.  (But if you can gain your freedom, avail yourself of the opportunity.)  22 For he who was called in the Lord as a slave is a freedman of the Lord.  Likewise he who was free when called is a slave of Christ.  23 You were bought with a price; do not become slaves of men.  24 So, brothers, in whatever condition each was called, there let him remain with God."

Moreover, Ephesians 4:1-12 read as follows:

"I therefore, a prisoner for the Lord, urge you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling to which you have been called, 2 with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love, 3 eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.  4 There is one body and one Spirit-just as you were called to the one hope that belongs to your call- 5 one Lord, one faith, one baptism, 6 one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all.  7 But grace was given to each one of us according to the measure of Christ's gift.  8 Therefore it says, 'When he ascended on high he led a host of captives, and he gave gifts to men.'  9 (In saying, 'He ascended,' what does it mean but that he also descended into the lower regions, the earth?  10 He who descended is the one who also ascended far above all the heavens, that he might fill all things.)  11 And he gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the shepherds and teachers, 12 to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ."

     The word "parenthetical" is defined as follows:

". . . adj.   1  Pertaining to a parenthesis.  2  Abounding in parentheses.  3  Thrown in; episodical. . . ."  [  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. 706.  ]

Paul ( see 1 Corinthians 1:1 ) wrote ( see 9:1; 16:21, for example ) the parenthetical statement ( at the end of verse twenty-one, above ) as a means of setting the context for what he would be writing in verse twenty-two.  Here, he throws in the concept of gaining one's freedom as a means of stressing obedience to the gospel of our Lord Jesus ( see 2 Thessalonians 1:5-12 ( especially verses 8-10, for example ), for example ).

     Specifically, one is freed from his or her past sins when he or she is baptized, by immersion in water, in the name of Jesus Christ ( 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; KJV, for example ); 6:1-4 ( especially verses 3 and 4, for example ), Colossians 1:15-20 ( especially verse 20, for example ), and Revelation 1:1-5 ( especially verse 5, for example ), for example ).  Thus, in this parenthetical statement, Paul was simply stating that one needs to avail himself or herself of the opportunity to gain freedom from his or her past sins.  This observation agrees with the context of the next two verses, where the concept of being called ( as we read in the first verse twenty-two, above ) is a reference to obedience to the gospel of our Lord Jesus, and the first verse twenty-three ( above ), teaches that we, as Christians ( see Acts 11:26, for example ), being slaves of Christ ( again, as we read in the first verse twenty-two ), were bought with His blood: we are His property ( see Leviticus 25:44, 45, Acts 2:41, 47 ( KJV, for example ); 20:17-28 (  especially verse 28, for example; KJV, for example ), Romans 10:1-4 ( especially verse 4, for example ); 12:1-8 ( especially verse 5, for example ); 15:1-4 ( especially verse 4, for example ), for example ), 1 Corinthians 6:12-20 ( especially verses 19 and 20, for example ), Ephesians 1:15-23 ( especially verses 22 and 23, for example ), and Hebrews 9:11-14 ( especially verse 14, for example ), for example ).

     The final thought of Paul, in this context, is that of remaining in whatever condition one is in when called ( as we read in the first verse twenty-four, above ).  Namely, if one is free, then he or she must remain free.  Likewise, if one is a slave, then he or she must remain a slave.  One implication, regarding this observation, is that not only is the free person called to have a ministry in the kingdom of God ( of which the New Testament church, the church of Christ, is the earthly realm - see Daniel 2:31-45 ( especially verse 44, for example ), Joel 2:28-32, Matthew 16:17, 18, Luke 1:26-33 ( especially verse 33, for example ), Acts, chapter 2, and Romans 16:16, for example ), but the lowly slave, as well.  This means that the heavenly Father ( see Matthew 5:9, 16: 6:9, 14, for example ) calls one to the ministry regardless of his or her social status: He "shows no partiality" ( see Acts 10:34 ).

     The question, then, becomes one with respect to an individual's calling.  What were you, the reader, called to be in His kingdom?  From the list that we find in the first verse eleven ( above ), apostles with miraculous powers and prophets are no longer necessary ( see Mark 16:20, John 2:11 ( see John 2:11 ( KJV; with center-column references ) to get the equivalent translation for the word "miracles" ), Acts 1:12-26 ( especially verses 21 and 22, for example ), and 1 Corinthians 13:8-10, for example, and cf. the footnote for 2 Corinthians 8:23 to get the alternative translation for the word "messengers").

     Therefore, in this context, one's calling is that of evangelist, shepherd, and/or teacher.  Christian women can be teachers ( see 2 Timothy 1:1-5 ( especially verse 5, for example ); 3:10-17 ( especially verse 15, for example ), and cf. Ephesians 6:4, for example ) but they are not allowed to be evangelists, in the full sense of that calling ( see 1 Timothy 2:12, for example, and cf. Luke 15:8-10, for example ), or shepherds.  A Christian man, though, can have the calling of evangelist ( see 2 Timothy 1:2; 4:2, for example ), shepherd ( 1 Timothy 3:1-7 and 1 Peter 5:1-11 ( especially verses 1-4, for example ), for example ), or teacher ( see Acts 11:19-26 ( especially verses 25 and 26, for example ), for example ), or all three.

     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 be e-mail at:

     <rewillis1_1@juno.com>

     <Russell E. Willis>.

NOTE: Please read the Wednesday, September 16, 2015 and Monday, September 28, 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 MODERN ENGLISH VERSION ( MEV ).  Luke 17:11-19 read as follows:

"11 As Jesus went to Jerusalem, He passed between Samaria and Galilee.  12 As He entered a village, there met him ten men who were lepers, who stood at a distance.  13 They lifted up their voices, saying, 'Jesus, Master, have pity on us!'  14 When He saw them, He said to them, 'Go, show yourselves to the priests.'  And as they went, they were cleansed.  15 One of them, when he saw that he was healed, returned with a loud voice glorifying God, 16 and fell down on his face at His feet, giving Him thanks.  And he was a Samaritan.  17 Jesus said, 'Were not the ten cleansed?  Where are the nine?  18 Were there not any found to return and give glory to God except this foreigner?'  19 Then He said to him, 'Rise, go your way.  Your faith has made you well.'"

As Christians ( see Acts 11:26, for example ), are we thankful that we have been cleansed of our spiritual leprosy?

     Please click on the link below to read today's bulletin regarding leprosy, spiritual leprosy, and baptism:

<http://1drv.ms/1OqB2os>.

Also, please study the Holy Bible ( which is God's word - see John 17:1, 3, and 17, and 2 Timothy 2:15, 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.  Psalm 128:1 reads as follows:

"1 Happy are all who fear the LORD, who live according to his will."

The psalmist, here, presents the requirement for happiness.

     If one fears the LORD, it follows that he or she will live according to His will.  What is His will?  The heavenly Father ( see Matthew 5:9, 16; 6:9, 14, for example ) desires that we love our neighbor as ourself ( see Matthew 22:39, for example ), for example.

     One inherent lesson, in this passage from the Holy Bible, is a love of self, though we are not to think too highly in this regard ( see Romans 12:3, for example ).  This love of self means that we will not intentionally harm ourselves, rather, we provide and care for our own body, which is "how Christ treats the church, because it is his body" ( see Ephesians 5:29, 30 ).  Suicidal intent violates His command ( see Ecclesiastes 12:13 and Romans 15:1-4 ( especially verse 4, for example ), for example ) for love, as it relates to oneself.

     Moreover, "everyone who hates his brother is a murderer" ( see 1 John 3:15 ).  A second lesson Jesus ( see Matthew 22:29 ) taught ( as referenced above - see also John 8:26; 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" ), Colossians 2:8, 9, and 1 John 5:7 ( KJV, for example ), for example ) is that of having the same love for one's neighbor as for self.  Love "thinks no evil" ( see 1 Corinthians 13:5; MEV, for example ) and, thus, hatred for our neighbor is a thought that must not occur.  Murderous intent violates His command for love of neighbor.

     Anyone who desires suicide, murder, or both, does not fear the LORD and, therefore, is not a happy individual.  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>.