Commands and Prohibitions Compatible With the Qur’an in the Gospel
Not to Murder
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This is the message you heard from the beginning: We should love one another. Do not be like Cain, who belonged to the evil one and murdered his brother. And why did he murder him? Because his own actions were evil and his brother's were righteous... and you know that no murderer has eternal life [paradise] in him. (1 John, 3:11-15)
You have heard that it was said to the people long ago, "Do not murder, and anyone who murders will be subject to judgment." (Matthew, 5:21)
"Why do you call me good?" Jesus answered. "No one is good—except God alone. You know the commandments: 'Do not murder, do not commit adultery, do not steal, do not give false testimony, do not defraud, honor your father and mother.'" (Mark, 10:18-19, Luke 18:19-20)
The commandments, "Do not commit adultery," "Do not murder," "Do not steal," "Do not covet," and whatever other commandment there may be, are summed up in this one rule: "Love your neighbor as yourself." (Romans, 13:9)
For whoever keeps the whole law and yet stumbles at just one point is guilty of breaking all of it. For he who said, "Do not commit adultery," also said, "Do not murder." If you do not commit adultery but do commit murder, you have become a lawbreaker. (James, 2:10-11)
... These make a man 'unclean.' For out of the heart come evil thoughts, murder, adultery, sexual immorality, theft, false testimony, slander. These are what make a man 'unclean.' (Matthew, 15:18-20)
He [Jesus] went on: "What comes out of a man is what makes him 'unclean.' For from within, out of men's hearts, come evil thoughts, sexual immorality, theft, murder, adultery, greed, malice, deceit, lewdness, envy, slander, arrogance and folly. All these evils come from inside and make a man 'unclean.' (Mark, 7:20-23)
Nor did they repent of their murders, their magic arts, their sexual immorality or their thefts. (Revelation, 9:21)
Furthermore, since they did not think it worthwhile to retain the knowledge of God [God is beyond that], He gave them over to a depraved mind. They have become filled with every kind of wickedness, evil, greed and depravity. They are full of envy, murder, strife, deceit and malice. They are gossips, slanderers, hateful to God [God is beyond that], insolent, arrogant and boastful; they invent ways of doing evil; they disobey their parents; they are senseless, faithless, heartless, ruthless. Although they know God's righteous decree that those who do such things deserve death [hell], they not only continue to do these very things but also approve of those who practice them. (Romans, 1:28-32)
What causes fights and quarrels among you? Don't they come from your desires that battle within you? You want something but don't get it. You kill and covet, but you cannot have what you want. You quarrel and fight. You do not have, because you do not ask God. When you ask, you do not receive, because you ask with wrong motives, that you may spend what you get on your pleasures. You adulterous people, don't you know that friendship with the world is hatred toward God? Anyone who chooses to be a friend of the world becomes an enemy of God [God is beyond that]. (James, 4:1-4)
Not to Steal
He who has been stealing must steal no longer, but must work, doing something useful with his own hands, that he may have something to share with those in need. (Ephesians, 4:28)
[Jesus:] "You know the commandments: 'Do not commit adultery, do not murder, do not steal, do not give false testimony, honor your father and mother.'" "All these I have kept since I was a boy," he said. (Luke, 18:20-21; Matthew 19:17-19)
"Why do you ask me about what is good?" Jesus replied. "There is only One who is good. If you want to enter life, obey the commandments." "Which ones?" the man inquired. Jesus replied, " 'Do not murder, do not commit adultery, do not steal, do not give false testimony, honor your father and mother,' and 'love your neighbor as yourself.'" "All these I have kept," the young man said. (Matthew, 19:17-19)
The commandments, "Do not commit adultery," "Do not murder," "Do not steal," "Do not covet," and whatever other commandment there may be, are summed up in this one rule: "Love your neighbor as yourself." (Romans, 13:9-10)
If you suffer, it should not be as a murderer or thief or any other kind of criminal, or even as a meddler. However, if you suffer as a Christian, do not be ashamed, but praise God that you bear that name. (1 Peter, 4:15-16)
If you are convinced that you are a guide for the blind, a light for those who are in the dark, an instructor of the foolish, a teacher of infants, because you have in the law the embodiment of knowledge and truth you, then, who teach others, do you not teach yourself? You who preach against stealing, do you steal? (Romans, 2:19-21)
Nor did they repent of their murders, their magic arts, their sexual immorality or their thefts. (Revelation, 9:21)
[Jesus:] "You know the commandments: 'Do not murder, do not commit adultery, do not steal, do not give false testimony, do not defraud, honor your father and mother." (Mark, 10:19)
Not to Engage in Prostitution and Adultery
Marriage should be honored by all... and... kept pure, for God will judge the adulterer and all the sexually immoral. (Hebrews, 13:4)
You know the commandments: 'Do not murder, do not commit adultery, do not steal, do not give false testimony, do not defraud, honor your father and mother.' (Mark, 10:19)
You have heard that it was said, 'Do not commit adultery.' (Matthew, 5:27)
It is God's will that you should be sanctified, that you should avoid sexual immorality. (1 Thessalonians, 4:3)
Lest there [be] any fornicator, or profane person. (Hebrews, 12:16)
In a similar way, Sodom and Gomorrah and the surrounding towns gave themselves up to sexual immorality and perversion. They serve as an example of those who suffer the punishment of eternal fire. (Jude, 1:7)
But among you there must not be even a hint of sexual immorality, or of any kind of impurity, or of greed, because these are improper for God's holy people [who devote themselves to God]. Nor should there be obscenity, foolish talk or coarse joking, which are out of place, but rather thanksgiving. For of this you can be sure: No immoral, impure or greedy person—such a man is an idolater—has any inheritance in the kingdom... of God [paradise]. Let no one deceive you with empty words, for because of such things God's wrath comes on those who are disobedient. Therefore do not be partners with them. (Ephesians, 5:3-7)
"What comes out of a man is what makes him 'unclean.' For from within, out of men's hearts, come evil thoughts, sexual immorality, theft, murder, adultery, greed, malice, deceit, lewdness, envy, slander, arrogance and folly. All these evils come from inside and make a man 'unclean.' (Mark, 7:20-22)
Everything is permissible for me"—but not everything is beneficial. "Everything is permissible for me"—but I will not be mastered by anything. "Food for the stomach and the stomach for food"—but God will destroy them both. The body is not meant for sexual immorality, but for the Lord [for obeying God's commandments and prohibitions]... (1 Corinthians, 6:12-13)
Flee from sexual immorality... (1 Corinthians, 6:18)
Instead we should write to them, telling them to abstain from food polluted by idols, from sexual immorality, from the meat of strangled animals and from blood. For Moses has been preached in every city from the earliest times and is read in the synagogues on every Sabbath. (Acts, 15:20-21)
It seemed good... to us not to burden you with anything beyond the following requirements: You are to abstainfrom food sacrificed to idols, from blood, from the meat of strangled animals and from sexual immorality. You will do well to avoid these things. Farewell. (Acts, 15:28-29)
As for the Gentile believers, we have written to them our decision that they should abstain from food sacrificed to idols, from blood, from the meat of strangled animals and from sexual immorality. (Acts, 21:25)
For out of the heart come evil thoughts, murder, adultery, sexual immorality, theft, false testimony, slander. These are what make a man 'unclean'... (Matthew, 15:19-20)
[Jesus:] "Why do you ask me about what is good?" Jesus replied. "There is only One Who is good. If you want to enter life, obey the commandments [of God]." "Which ones?" the man inquired. Jesus replied, "'Do not murder, do not commit adultery, do not steal, do not give false testimony, honor your father and mother,' and 'love your neighbor as yourself.'" (Matthew, 19:17-19)
The commandments, "Do not commit adultery," "Do not murder," "Do not steal," "Do not covet," and whatever other commandment there may be, are summed up in this one rule: "Love your neighbor as yourself." (Romans, 13:9)
He who overcomes will inherit all this... But the cowardly, the unbelieving, the vile, the murderers, the sexually immoral, those who practice magic arts, the idolaters and all liars—their place will be in the fiery lake of burning sulfur [hell]. This is the second death. (Revelation, 21:7-8)
Outside [outside paradise] are... those who practice magic arts, the sexually immoral, the murderers, the idolaters and everyone who loves and practices falsehood. (Revelation, 22:15)
Do you not know that the wicked will not inherit the kingdom of God [paradise]? Do not be deceived: Neither the sexually immoral nor idolaters nor adulterers ...nor thieves nor the greedy nor drunkards nor slanderers nor swindlers will inherit the kingdom of God. (1 Corinthians, 6:9-10)
For whoever keeps the whole law and yet stumbles at just one point is guilty of breaking all of it. For He Who said, "Do not commit adultery," also said, "Do not murder."... (James, 2:10-11)
It is actually reported that there is sexual immorality among you, and of a kind that does not occur even among pagans: A man has his father's wife. Shouldn't ...you have put out of your fellowship the man who did this?... I have written you in my letter... that you must not associate with anyone who calls himself a brother but is sexually immoral or greedy, an idolater or a slanderer, a drunkard or a swindler. With such a man do not even eat. (1 Corinthians, 5:1-11)
Put to death, therefore, whatever belongs to your earthly nature: sexual immorality, impurity, lust, evil desires and greed, which is idolatry. (Colossians, 3:5)
The acts of the sinful nature [the lower-self] are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity and debauchery; idolatry and witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions and envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like. I warn you, as I did before, that those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of God [paradise]. (Galatians, 5:19-21)
Nor did they repent of their murders, their magic arts, their sexual immorality or their thefts. (Revelation, 9:21)
... By her teaching she misleads my servants into sexual immorality and the eating of food sacrificed to idols. I have given her time to repent of her immorality, but she is unwilling. So I will cast her on a bed of suffering, and I will make those who commit adultery with her suffer intensely, unless they repent of her ways... I will repay each of you according to your deeds. (Revelation, 2:20-23)
He went on: "What comes out of a man is what makes him 'unclean.' For from within, out of men's hearts, come evil thoughts, sexual immorality, theft, murder, adultery, greed, malice, deceit, lewdness, envy, slander, arrogance and folly. All these evils come from inside and make a man 'unclean.' (Mark, 7:20-23)
But these men blaspheme in matters they do not understand. They are like brute beasts, creatures of instinct, born only to be caught and destroyed, and like beasts they too will perish. They will be paid back with harm for the harm they have done. Their idea of pleasure is to carouse in broad daylight. They are blots and blemishes, reveling in their pleasures while they feast with you. With eyes full of adultery, they never stop sinning; they seduce the unstable; they are experts in greed—an accursed brood! (2 Peter, 2:12-14)
Homosexuality and Perversion is Forbidden
... God gave them over in the sinful desires of their hearts to sexual impurity for the degrading of their bodies with one another. They exchanged the truth of God for a lie... Because of this, God gave them over to shameful lusts. Even their women exchanged natural relations for unnatural ones. In the same way the men also abandoned natural relations with women and were inflamed with lust for one another. Men committed indecent acts with other men, and received in themselves the due penalty for their perversion. Furthermore, since they did not think it worthwhile to retain the knowledge of God [God is beyond that], He gave them over to a depraved mind, to do what ought not to be done. (Romans, 1:24-28)
Do you not know that the wicked will not inherit the kingdom of God [paradise]? Do not be deceived: Neither the sexually immoral nor idolaters nor adulterers nor male prostitutes nor homosexual offenders nor thieves nor the greedy nor drunkards nor slanderers nor swindlers will inherit the kingdom of God [paradise]? (1 Corinthians, 6:9-10)
If He [God] condemned the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah by burning them to ashes, and made them an example of what is going to happen to the ungodly; and if He rescued Lot, a righteous man, who was distressed by the filthy lives of lawless men (for that righteous man, living among them day after day, was tormented in his righteous soul by the lawless deeds he saw and heard) if this is so, then the Lord knows how to rescue godly men from trials and to hold the unrighteous for the day of judgment, while continuing their punishment. This is especially true of those who follow the corrupt desire of the sinful nature and despise authority. (2 Peter, 2:6-10)
For certain men whose condemnation was written... have secretly slipped in among you... Though you already know all this, I want to remind you that the Lord delivered His people out of Egypt, but later destroyed those who did not believe... In a similar way, Sodom and Gomorrah and the surrounding towns gave themselves up to sexual immorality and perversion. They serve as an example of those who suffer the punishment of eternal fire. In the very same way, these dreamers pollute their own bodies, reject authority and slander celestial beings... and what things they do understand by instinct, like unreasoning animals—these are the very things that destroy them. (Jude, 1:4-10)
We also know that law is made not for the righteous but for lawbreakers and rebels, the ungodly and sinful, the unholy and irreligious; for those who kill their fathers or mothers, for murderers, for adulterers and perverts, for slave traders and liars and perjurers—and for whatever else is contrary to the sound doctrine. (1 Timothy, 1:9-10)
Not to Tell Lies
Do not lie to each other... (Colossians, 3:9)
Again, you have heard that it was said to the people long ago, 'Do not break your oath, but keep the oaths you have made to the Lord.' (Matthew, 5:33)
You know the commandments [of God]: 'Do not murder, do not commit adultery, do not steal, do not give false testimony, do not defraud, honor your father and mother.' (Mark, 10:19)
Why do you ask me about what is good?" Jesus replied. "There is only One Who is good. If you want to enter life, obey the commandments." "Which ones?" the man inquired. Jesus replied, "'Do not murder, do not commit adultery, do not steal, do not give false testimony, honor your father and mother,' and 'love your neighbor as yourself'." (Matthew, 19:17-19; Mark 10:18-19; Luke 18:18-20)
Do not lie to each other, since you have taken off your old self [the way you were created] with its practices and have put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge in the image of its Creator. (Colossians, 3:9-10)
[Jesus] For out of the heart come evil thoughts, murder, adultery, sexual immorality, theft, false testimony, slander. These are what make a man'unclean'... (Matthew, 15:19-20)
He [Jesus] went on:... For from within, out of men's hearts, come evil thoughts... slander... All these evils come from inside and make a man 'unclean.' (Mark, 7:20-23)
But now you must rid yourselves of all such things as these: anger, rage, malice, slander, and filthy language from your lips. (Colossians, 3:8)
Timothy, guard what has been entrusted to your care. Turn away from aimless chatter and the opposing ideas of what is falsely called knowledge, which some have professed and in so doing have wandered from the faith. (1 Timothy, 6:20-21)
Now a man named Ananias, together with his wife Sapphira, also sold a piece of property. With his wife's full knowledge he kept back part of the money for himself, but brought the rest and put it at the apostles' feet. Then Peter said, "Ananias, how is it that satan has so filled your heart that you have lied... and have kept for yourself some of the money you received for the land? Didn't it belong to you before it was sold? And after it was sold, wasn't the money at your disposal? What made you think of doing such a thing? You have not lied to men but to God." When Ananias heard this, he fell down and died. And great fear seized all who heard what had happened... (Acts, 5:1-6)
Not to Cheat
Therefore, rid yourselves of all malice and all deceit, hypocrisy, envy, and slander of every kind. Like newborn babies, crave pure spiritual milk, so that by it you may grow up in your salvation, now that you have tasted that the Lord is good [you have seen God's mercy]. (1 Peter, 2:1-3)
Therefore, since through God's mercy we have this ministry, we do not lose heart. Rather, we have renounced secret and shameful ways; we do not use deception, nor do we distort the word of God. On the contrary, by setting forth the truth plainly we commend ourselves to every man's conscience in the Sight of God. (2 Corinthians, 4:1-2)
Outside [outside paradise] are the dogs, those who practice magic arts, the sexually immoral, the murderers, the idolaters and everyone who loves and practices falsehood. (Revelations 22:15)
He [Jesus] went on: "What comes out of a man is what makes him 'unclean.' For from within, out of men's hearts, come evil thoughts, sexual immorality, theft, murder, adultery, greed, malice, deceit, lewdness, envy, slander, arrogance and folly. All these evils come from inside and make a man 'unclean.' (Mark, 7:20-23)
Furthermore, since they did not think it worthwhile to retain the knowledge of God, He gave them over to a depraved mind, to do what ought not to be done. They have become filled with every kind of wickedness, evil, greed and depravity. They are full of envy, murder, strife, deceit and malice. They are gossips, slanderers, hateful to God, insolent, arrogant and boastful; they invent ways of doing evil; they disobey their parents; they are senseless, faithless, heartless, ruthless. Although they know God's righteous decree that those who do such things deserve death [hell], they not only continue to do these very things but also approve of those who practice them. (Romans, 1:28-32)
Finally, be strong in the Lord [in complying with God's consent], and in His mighty power. Put on the full [spiritual] armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but... against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil... Therefore put on the full [spiritual] armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. (Ephesians, 6:10-13)
Nazareth! Can anything good come from there?" Nathanael asked. "Come and see," said Philip. When Jesus saw Nathanael approaching, he said of him, "Here is a true Israelite, in whom there is nothing false." (John, 1:46-47)
Then Saul, who was also called Paul, filled with God's Spirit [faith in God], looked straight at Elymas and said, "You are a child of the devil and an enemy of everything that is right! You are full of all kinds of deceit and trickery. Will you never stop perverting the right ways of the Lord? Now the hand of the Lord is against you [you will be repaid with God's wrath]. You are going to be blind, and for a time you will be unable to see the light of the sun. (Acts, 13:9-11)
... They are... reveling in their pleasures while they feast with you. With eyes full of adultery, they never stop sinning; they seduce the unstable; they are experts in greed—an accursed brood! They have left the straight way and wandered off to follow the way of Balaam son of Beor, who loved the wages of wickedness. (2 Peter, 2:13-15)
To Avoid Magic and the Like
Nor did they repent of their murders, their magic arts, their sexual immorality or their thefts. (Revelations 9:21)
He who overcomes will inherit all this... But the cowardly, the unbelieving, the vile, the murderers, the sexually immoral, those who practice magic arts, the idolaters and all liars—their place will be in the fiery lake of burning sulfur [hell]. This is the second death. (Revelations 21:7-8)
Outside [outside paradise] are the dogs, those who practice magic arts, the sexually immoral, the murderers, the idolaters and everyone who loves and practices falsehood. (Revelations 22:15)
... There they met a Jewish sorcerer and false prophet named Bar-Jesus, who was an attendant of the proconsul, Sergius Paulus. The proconsul, an intelligent man, sent for Barnabas and Saul because he wanted to hear the word of God. But Elymas the sorcerer (for that is what his name means) opposed them and tried to turn the proconsul from the faith. Then Saul, who was also called Paul, filled with God's Spirit [faith in God], looked straight at Elymas and said, "You are a child of the devil and an enemy of everything that is right! You are full of all kinds of deceit and trickery. Will you never stop perverting the right ways of the Lord? (Acts, 13:6-10)
Consumption of Blood is Prohibited
Instead we should write to them, telling them to abstain from food polluted by idols, from sexual immorality, from the meat of strangled animals and from blood. For Moses has been preached in every city from the earliest times and is read in the synagogues on every Sabbath. (Acts, 15:20-21)
It seemed good... to us not to burden you with anything beyond the following requirements: You are to abstain from food sacrificed to idols, from blood, from the meat of strangled animals and from sexual immorality. You will do well to avoid these things. Farewell. (Acts, 15:28-29)
As for the Gentile believers, we have written to them our decision that they should abstain from food sacrificed to idols, from blood, from the meat of strangled animals and from sexual immorality. (Acts, 21:25)
Meat from Animals That Have Been Killed by Strangulation is Forbidden
Instead we should write to them, telling them to abstain from food polluted by idols, from sexual immorality, from the meat of strangled animals and from blood. For Moses has been preached in every city from the earliest times and is read in the synagogues on every Sabbath. (Acts, 15:20-21)
It seemed good... to us not to burden you with anything beyond the following requirements: You are to abstain from food sacrificed to idols, from blood, from the meat of strangled animals and from sexual immorality. You will do well to avoid these things. Farewell. (Acts, 15:28-29)
As for the Gentile believers, we have written to them our decision that they should abstain from food sacrificed to idols, from blood, from the meat of strangled animals and from sexual immorality. (Acts, 21:25)
Not to Eat Meat Slaughtered in the Name of Anything Other Than God
It seemed good... to us not to burden you with anything beyond the following requirements: You are to abstain from food sacrificed to idols, from blood, from the meat of strangled animals and from sexual immorality. You will do well to avoid these things. Farewell. (Acts, 15:28-29)
Instead we should write to them, telling them to abstain from food polluted by idols, from sexual immorality, from the meat of strangled animals and from blood. For Moses has been preached in every city from the earliest times and is read in the synagogues on every Sabbath. (Acts, 15:20-21)
As for the Gentile believers, we have written to them our decision that they should abstain from food sacrificed to idols, from blood, from the meat of strangled animals and from sexual immorality. (Acts, 21:25)
Now about food sacrificed to idols: We know that we all possess knowledge. Knowledge puffs up, but love builds up. The man who thinks he knows something does not yet know as he ought to know. But the man who loves God is known by God. So then, about eating food sacrificed to idols: We know that an idol is nothing at all in the world and that there is no god but One... [Yet] for us there is but one God... from Whom all things came and for Whom we live...But not everyone knows this. Some people are still so accustomed to idols that when they eat such food they think of it as having been sacrificed to an idol, and since their conscience is weak, it is defiled. (1 Corinthians, 8:1-7)
Nevertheless, I have a few things against you: You have people there who hold to the teaching of Balaam, who taught Balak to entice the Israelites to sin by eating food sacrificed to idols and by committing sexual immorality. (Revelations 2:14)
Not to Drink Wine
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Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord's will is. Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead, be filled with the Spirit of God [faith in God]. Speak to one another with psalms, hymns and spiritual songs. Sing and make music in your heart to the Lord, always giving thanks to God... for everything... Submit to one another out of reverence for Christ. (Ephesians, 5:17-21)
For John... came neither eating bread nor drinking wine... (Luke, 7:33)
But the angel said to him: "Do not be afraid, Zechariah; your prayer has been heard. Your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son, and you are to give him the name John. He will be a joy and delight to you, and many will rejoice because of his birth, for he will be great in the Sight of the Lord. He is never to take wine or other fermented drink, and he will be filled with God's Spirit [faith in God] even from birth. Many of the people of Israel will he bring back to the Lord their God. And he will go on before the Lord... to turn the hearts of the fathers to their children and the disobedient to the wisdom of the righteous. (Luke, 1:13-17)
He must also have a good reputation with outsiders, so that he will not fall into disgrace and into the devil's trap. Deacons, likewise, are to be men worthy of respect, sincere, not indulging in... wine, and not pursuing dishonest gain. They must keep hold of the deep truths of the faith with a clear conscience. (1 Timothy, 3:7-9)
But suppose that servant is wicked and... begins to beat his fellow servants and to eat and drink with drunkards... [God's wrath] will come on a day when he does not expect him and at an hour he is not aware of. He will cut him to pieces and assign him a place with the hypocrites, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth. (Matthew, 24:48-51; Luke 12:43-47)
Here is a trustworthy saying: If anyone sets his heart on being an overseer, he desires a noble task. Now the overseer must be above reproach... temperate, self-controlled, respectable, hospitable, able to teach, not given to drunkenness, not violent but gentle, not quarrelsome, not a lover of money. (1 Timothy, 3:1-3)
An elder must be blameless... a man whose children believe and are not open to the charge of being wild and disobedient. Since an overseer is entrusted with God's work, he must be blameless—not overbearing, not quick-tempered, not given to drunkenness, not violent, not pursuing dishonest gain. Rather he must be hospitable, one who loves what is good, who is self-controlled, upright, holy and disciplined. (Titus, 1:6-8)
You must teach what is in accord with sound doctrine. Teach the older men to be temperate, worthy of respect, self-controlled, and sound in faith, in love and in endurance. Likewise, teach the older women to be reverent in the way they live, not to be slanderers or addicted to wine, but to teach what is good. (Titus, 2:1-3)
Other Provisions of the Gospel That are Compliant with the Qur’an
Commanding What is Right and Forbidding What is Wrong
So watch yourselves. "If your brother sins, rebuke him, and if he repents, forgive him. If he sins against you seven times in a day, and seven times comes back to you and says, 'I repent,' forgive him." (Luke, 17:3-4)
As for those who persist in sin, rebuke them in the presence of all, so that the rest may stand in fear [of God]. (1 Timothy, 5:20)
Do not be misled: "Bad company corrupts good character." Come back to your senses as you ought, and stop sinning; for there are some who are ignorant of God—I say this to your shame. (1 Corinthians, 15:33-34)
"If your brother sins against you, go and show him his fault, just between the two of you. If he listens to you, you have won your brother over. But if he will not listen, take one or two others along, so that 'every matter may be established by the testimony of two or three witnesses.' If he refuses to listen to them, tell it to the community of believers; and if he refuses to listen even to the community of believers, treat him as you would a pagan or a tax collector. (Mathew, 18:15-17)
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Not to Cause Dissension
I urge you, brothers, to watch out for those who cause divisions and put obstacles in your way that are contrary to the teaching [God's commandments] you have learned. Keep away from them. (Romans, 16:17)
Jesus said to his disciples: "Things that cause people to sin are bound to come, but woe to that person through whom they come. It would be better for him to be thrown into the sea with a millstone tied around his neck than for him to cause one of these little ones to sin. (Luke, 17:1-2)
[God] will send out His angels, and they will weed out... everything that causes sin and all who do evil. They will throw them into the fiery furnace [into the Fire of hell], where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth. Then the righteous will shine like the sun in the kingdom of the Lord [paradise]. He who has ears, let him hear. (Matthew, 13:41-43)
[Jesus:] "... Woe to the world because of the things that cause people to sin! Such things must come, but woe to the man through whom they come!" (Matthew, 18:7)
Repentance
Jesus answered them, "It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick. I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance." (Luke, 5:31-32)
Repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out, that times of refreshing may come from the Lord. (Acts, 3:19)
"You have no part or share in this ministry, because your heart is not right before God. Repent of this wickedness and pray to the Lord. Perhaps He will forgive you for having such a thought in your heart. For I see that you are full of bitterness and captive to sin." (Acts, 8:21-23)
... Jesus went into Galilee, proclaiming the Good News of God [God's commandments]. "The time has come," he said. "... [The day of judgment] is near. Repent and believe the Good News [God's commandments]!" (Mark, 1:14-15)
In those days John came, preaching in the Desert of Judea and saying, "Repent, for... [the Day of Judgment] is near." (Matthew, 3:1-2)
And the Lord's servant must not quarrel; instead, he must be kind to everyone, able to teach, not resentful. Those who oppose him he must gently instruct, in the hope that God will grant them repentance leading them to a knowledge of the truth, and that they will come to their senses and escape from the trap of the devil, who has taken them captive to do his will. (2 Timothy, 2:24-26)
[Jesus:] "Or those eighteen who died when the tower in Siloam fell on them—do you think they were more guilty than all the others living in Jerusalem? I tell you, no! But unless you repent, you too will all perish." (Luke, 13:4-5)
Peter replied, "Repent... everyone of you... for the forgiveness of your sins... The promise is for you and your children and for all who are far off—for all whom the Lord our God will call." (Acts, 2:38-39)
... They praised God, saying, "So then, God has granted even the other nations repentance unto life." (Acts, 11:18)
[John:] "Produce fruit in keeping with repentance. And do not begin to say to yourselves, 'We have Abraham as our father.' For I tell you that out of these stones God can raise up children for Abraham. The axe is already at the root of the trees, and every tree that does not produce good fruit will be cut down and thrown into the fire." (Luke, 3:8-9)
He [Jesus] replied, "Blessed rather are those who hear the word of God and obey it." As the crowds increased, Jesus said, "This is a wicked generation... The men of Nineveh... repented at the preaching of Jonah..." (Luke, 11:28-29, 32)
... And so John came... preaching... repentance for the forgiveness of sins. (Mark, 1:4)
First to those in Damascus, then to those in Jerusalem and in all Judea, and to the other nations also, I preached that they should repent and turn to God and prove their repentance by their deeds. (Acts, 26:20)
They went out and preached that people should repent. (Mark, 6:12)
He went into all the country around the Jordan, preaching... of repentance for the forgiveness of sins. (Luke, 3:3)
So watch yourselves. "If your brother sins, rebuke him, and if he repents, forgive him. If he sins against you seven times in a day, and seven times comes back to you and says, 'I repent,' forgive him." (Luke, 17:3-4)
In the past God overlooked [forgave] such ignorance, but now He commands all people everywhere to repent. (Acts, 17:30)
I have declared to both Jews and Greeks that they must turn to God in repentance and have faith in... Jesus [for the approval of God]. (Acts, 20:21)
The rest of mankind that were not killed by these plagues still did not repent of the work of their hands; they did not stop worshiping demons, and idols of gold, silver, bronze, stone and wood—idols that cannot see or hear or walk. Nor did they repent of their murders, their magic arts, their sexual immorality or their thefts. (Revelation, 9:20-21)
The Lord is not slow in keeping His Promise, as some understand slowness. He [God] is patient with you [gives you time], not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance. But the day of the Lord will come [suddenly]... The heavens will disappear with a roar; the elements will be destroyed by fire, and the earth and everything in it will be laid bare. (2 Peter, 3:9-10)
Yet I hold this against you: You have forsaken your first love. Remember the height from which you have fallen! Repent and do the things you did at first... (Revelation, 2:4-5)
Those whom I love I rebuke and discipline. So be earnest, and repent. (Revelation, 3:19)
Godly sorrow brings repentance that leads to salvation and leaves no regret, but worldly sorrow brings death [torments of hell]. See what this godly sorrow has produced in you: what earnestness, what eagerness to clear yourselves, what indignation, what alarm, what longing, what concern, what readiness to see justice done. At every point you have proved yourselves to be innocent in this matter. (2 Corinthians, 7:10-11)
In the same way, I tell you, there is rejoicing in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents. (Luke, 15:10)
... Not laying again the foundation of repentance from acts that lead to death [that leads to the torments of hell], and of faith in God... the laying on of hands, the resurrection of the dead, and eternal judgment. And God permitting, we will do so. It is impossible for those who have once been enlightened, who have tasted the heavenly gift... who have tasted the goodness of the word of God and the powers of the coming age, if they fall away, to be brought back to repentance... over again and subjecting him to public disgrace. (Hebrews, 6:1-6)
Not to Profligate
When they had all had enough to eat, he said to his disciples, "Gather the pieces that are left over. Let nothing be wasted." So they gathered them and filled twelve baskets with the pieces of the five barley loaves left over by those who had eaten. After the people saw the miraculous sign that Jesus did, they began to say, "Surely this is the Prophet who is to come into the world." (John, 6:12-14)
To Greet First When Entering Houses
When you enter a house, first say, 'Peace to this house.' If a man of peace is there, your peace will rest on him; if not, it will return to you. (Luke, 10:5-6)
As you enter the home, give it your greeting. If the home is deserving, let your peace rest on it; if it is not, let your peace return to you. (Matthew, 10:12-13)
... Jesus came and stood among them and said, "Peace be with you!"... Again Jesus said, "Peace be with you!... (John, 20:19-21)
To Use the Phrase: If God Wills
Now listen, you who say, "Today or tomorrow we will go to this or that city, spend a year there, carry on business and make money." Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes. Instead, you ought to say, "If it is the Lord's Will, we will live and do this or that." (James, 4:13-15)
... Let us go on unto perfection... And God permitting, we will do so. (Hebrews, 6:1, 3)
The Unity of Believers
I appeal to you, brothers... that all of you agree with one another so that there may be no divisions among you and that you may be perfectly united in mind and thought. (1 Corinthians, 1:10)
But instead, one brother goes to law against another—and this in front of unbelievers! The very fact that you have lawsuits among you means you have been completely defeated already. Why not rather be wronged? Why not rather be cheated? Instead, you yourselves cheat and do wrong, and you do this to your brothers. (1 Corinthians, 6:6-8)
There is neither Jew nor Greek, slave nor free, male nor female, for you are all one in [your devotion to] Christ Jesus [for God's good pleasure]. (Galatians, 3:28)
Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another and all the more as you see the Day approaching. (Hebrews, 10:25)
... Whatever happens, conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the Gospel of Christ. Then, whether I come and see you or only hear about you in my absence, I will know that you stand firm in one spirit, contending as one man for the faith of the Gospel without being frightened in any way by those who oppose you. This is a sign to them that they will be destroyed, but that you will be saved—and that by God [the law of God]. (Philippians, 1:27-28)
[Jesus:] "He who is not with me [for God's good pleasure] is against me, and he who does not gather with me, scatters." (Luke, 11:23)
Jesus knew their thoughts and said to them, "Every country divided against itself will be ruined, and every city or household divided against itself will not stand." (Matthew, 12:25; Luke 11:17; Mark 9:39)
... "I tell you that anyone who is angry with his brother will be subject to judgment. Again, anyone who says to his brother, [an offending word]... anyone who says, 'You fool!' will be in danger of the fire of hell. "Therefore, if you... remember that your brother has something against you... first go and be reconciled to your brother; then come and offer your gift." (Matthew, 5:21-24)
Who are my mother and my brothers?" he [Jesus] asked. Then he looked at those seated in a circle around him and said, "Here are my mother and my brothers! Whoever does God's will is my brother and sister and mother." (Mark, 3:33-35)
Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. (Ephesians, 4:2)
You, my brothers, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the sinful nature; rather, serve one another in love. The entire law is summed up in a single command: "Love your neighbor as yourself." If you keep on biting and devouring each other, watch out or you will be destroyed by each other. (Galatians, 5:13-15)
My purpose is that they may be encouraged in heart and united in love, so that they may have the full riches of complete understanding, in order that they may know the mystery of God... in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge. (Colossians, 2:2-3)
So Jesus called them [teachers of religious law] and spoke to them in parables: "... If a country is divided against itself, that country cannot stand. If a house is divided against itself, that house cannot stand... In fact, no one can enter a strong man's house and carry off his possessions ..." (Mark, 3:23-27)
Now Jesus' mother and brothers came to see him, but they were not able to get near him because of the crowd. Someone told him, "Your mother and brothers are standing outside, wanting to see you." He replied, "My mother and brothers are those who hear God's word and put it into practice." (Luke, 8:19-21)
"Do not stop him," Jesus said, "for whoever is not against you is for you." (Luke, 9:50)
... And we ought to lay down our lives [for God's good pleasure] for our brothers. (1 John, 3:16)
Entrusting to Reliable Men
Whoever can be trusted with very little can also be trusted with much, and whoever is dishonest with very little will also be dishonest with much. So if you have not been trustworthy in handling worldly wealth, who will trust you with true riches? And if you have not been trustworthy with someone else's property, who will give you property of your own? (Luke, 16:10-12)
And the things you have heard me say in the presence of many witnesses entrust to reliable men who will also be qualified to teach others. Endure hardship with us like a good soldier [disciple, follower] of Christ Jesus. (2 Timothy, 2:2-3)
Do not give dogs what is sacred; do not throw your pearls to pigs. If you do, they may trample them under their feet, and then turn and tear you to pieces. (Matthew, 7:6)
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Ruling Justly
Woe to you...! You give a tenth of your spices—mint, dill and cummin. But you have neglected the more important matters of the law [God's commandments]—justice, mercy and faithfulness. You should have practiced the latter, without neglecting the former. (Matthew, 23:23; Luke 11:42)
Stop judging by mere appearances, and make a right judgment. (John, 7:24)
Masters, provide your slaves with what is right and fair... (Colossians, 4:1)
"Why do you call me good?" Jesus answered. "No one is good—except God alone. You know the commandments: 'Do not murder, do not commit adultery, do not steal, do not give false testimony, do not defraud, honor your father and mother." (Mark, 10:18-19)
... For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged [in the hereafter], and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you. (Matthew, 7:1-2)
Who through faith conquered countries, administered justice, and gained what was promised; who shut the mouths of lions. (Hebrews, 11:33)
Rather he must be hospitable, one who loves what is good, sensible, just, devout, self-controlled. (Titus, 1:8)
You are witnesses, and so is God, of how holy, justly and blameless we were among you who believed. (1 Thessalonians, 2:10)
My brothers... don't show favoritism. Suppose a man comes into your meeting wearing a gold ring and fine clothes, and a poor man in shabby clothes also comes in. If you show special attention to the man wearing fine clothes and say, "Here's a good seat for you," but say to the poor man, "You stand there" or "Sit on the floor by my feet," have you not discriminated among yourselves and become judges with evil thoughts? (James, 2:1-4)
... You rule with a scepter of justice. You have loved righteousness and hated wickedness... (Hebrews, 1:8-9)
"Here is my servant whom I have chosen, the one I love, in whom I delight... and he will proclaim justice to the nations... A bruised reed he will not break, and a smoldering wick he will not snuff out, till he leads justice to victory... (Matthew, 12:18-20)
He [Moses] saw one of them being mistreated... so he went to his defense... The next day Moses came upon two Israelites who were fighting. He tried to reconcile them by saying, 'Men, you are brothers; Why do you wrong each other?'' (Acts, 7:24-26)
[Jesus:] "You judge by human standards; I pass judgment on no one. But if I do judge, my decisions are right..." (John, 8:15-16)
But if you show favoritism, you sin and are convicted by the Law [The Holy Book] as lawbreakers. (James, 2:9)
God "will give to each person according to what he has done." To those who by persistence in doing good seek glory, honor and immortality, he will give eternal life [heaven]. But for those who are self-seeking and who reject the truth and follow evil, there will be wrath and anger. (Romans, 2:6-8)
Anyone who does wrong will be repaid for his wrong, and there is no favoritism. (Colossians, 3:25)
They will be paid back with harm for the harm they have done... (2 Peter, 2:13)
... I charge you, in the Sight of God and Christ Jesus and the elect angels, to keep these instructions without partiality, and to do nothing out of favoritism... do not share in the sins of others. Keep yourself pure. (1 Timothy, 5:20-22)
Make room for us in your hearts. We have wronged no one, we have corrupted no one, we have exploited no one. (2 Corinthians, 7:2)
They came to him and said, "Teacher, we know you are a man of integrity. You aren't swayed by men, because you pay no attention to who they are; but you teach the way of God in accordance with the truth. Is it right to pay taxes to Caesar or not? (Mark, 12:14; Matthew 22:16)
Abstaining from Evil
Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is light in the eyes of everybody. If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. Do not take revenge, my friends, but leave room for God's wrath, for it is written: "It is mine to avenge; I will repay," says the Lord. On the contrary: "If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head." Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good. (Romans, 12:17-21)
Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other... (Ephesians, 4:31-32)
If it is encouraging, let him encourage; if it is contributing to the needs of others, let him give generously; if it is leadership, let him govern diligently; if it is showing mercy, let him do it cheerfully. Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. (Romans, 12:8-9)
Therefore, get rid of all moral filth and the evil that is so prevalent and humbly accept the word planted in you, which can save you. (James, 1:21)
Do not repay evil with evil or insult with insult, but with blessing, because to this you were called so that you may inherit a blessing. (1 Peter, 3:9)
Love does no harm to its neighbor. Therefore love is the fulfillment of the law [God's commandments]. (Romans, 13:10)
Therefore let us keep the Festival, not with the old yeast, the yeast of malice and wickedness, but with bread without yeast, the bread of sincerity and truth. (1 Corinthians, 5:8)
And we urge you, brothers, warn those who are idle, encourage the timid, help the weak, be patient with everyone. Make sure that nobody pays back wrong for wrong, but always try to be kind to each other and to everyone else. Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you... (1 Thessalonians, 5:14-18)
Test everything. Hold on to the good. Avoid every kind of evil. (1 Thessalonians, 5:21-22)
Who have wandered away from the truth; they say that the resurrection has already taken place, and they destroy the faith of some. Nevertheless, God's solid foundation stands firm, sealed with this inscription: "The Lord knows those who are His," and, "Everyone who confesses the name of the Lord must turn away from wickedness." (2 Timothy, 2:18-19)
He must turn from evil and do good; he must seek peace and pursue it. For the Eyes of the Lord [the Help of God] are on the righteous and His Ears are attentive to their prayer [God accepts the prayers of the righteous ones], but the... Lord is against those who do evil." (1 Peter, 3:11-12)
Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. Always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. (1 Corinthians, 13:4-7)
What causes fights and quarrels among you? Don't they come from your desires that battle within you? You want something but don't get it. You kill and covet, but you cannot have what you want. You quarrel and fight. You do not have, because you do not ask God. When you ask, you do not receive, because you ask with wrong motives, that you may spend what you get on your pleasures. You adulterous people, don't you know that friendship with the world is hatred toward God? Anyone who chooses to be a friend of the world becomes an enemy of God. (James, 4:1-4)
Doing Good Deeds
And do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased. (Hebrews, 13:16)
And we urge you, brothers... Make sure that nobody pays back wrong for wrong, but always try to be kind to each other and to everyone else. (1 Thessalonians, 5:14-15)
Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse. (Romans, 12:14)
Dear friend, do not imitate what is evil but what is good. Anyone who does what is good is [the one who acts in compliant with the approval of God] from God... (3 John, 1:11)
And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds. (Hebrews, 10:24)
Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers. (Galatians, 6:10)
[Jesus:] "But I tell you who hear me: Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you." (Luke, 6:27-28)
[Jesus:] Give to everyone who asks you, and if anyone takes what belongs to you, do not demand it back. Do to others as you would have them do to you. "If you love those who love you, what credit is that to you? Even 'sinners' love those who love them. And if you do good to those who are good to you, what credit is that to you? Even 'sinners' do that... But love your enemies, do good to them, and lend to them without expecting to get anything back. Then your reward will be great... (Luke, 6:30-35)
"No good tree bears bad fruit, nor does a bad tree bear good fruit. Each tree is recognized by its own fruit. People do not pick figs from thornbushes, or grapes from briers. The good man brings good things out of the good stored up in his heart, and the evil man brings evil things out of the evil stored up in his heart. For out of the overflow of his heart his mouth speaks. (Luke, 6:43-45; Matthew, 12:33-35)
And as for you, brothers, never tire of doing what is right... (2 Thessalonians, 3:13)
For it is God's will that by doing good you should silence the ignorant talk of foolish men. Live as free men, but do not use your freedom as a cover-up for evil; live as servants of God. Show proper respect to everyone: Love the brotherhood of believers, fear God... (1 Peter, 2:15-17)
... For, "Whoever would love life and see good days must keep his tongue from evil and his lips from deceitful speech. He must turn from evil and do good; he must seek peace and pursue it. For the eyes of the Lord [the mercy and help of God] are on the righteous... (1 Peter, 3:10-12)
And come out—those who have done good will rise to live [to live the endless life of paradise], and those who have done evil will rise to be condemned [to suffer the torment in the hell]. (John, 5:29)
... Jesus... went around doing good and healing all who were under the power of the devil, because God was with him. (Acts, 10:37-38)
Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. (Romans, 12:9)
Because you know that the Lord will reward everyone for whatever good he does, whether he is slave or free. (Ephesians, 6:8)
Each of us should please his neighbor [for God's good pleasure] for his good, to build him up. (Romans, 15:2)
We work hard with our own hands. When we are cursed, we bless; when we are persecuted, we endure it. (1 Corinthians, 4:12)
He must turn from evil and do good; he must seek peace and pursue it. (1 Peter, 3:11)
Who is going to harm you if you are eager to do good? But even if you should suffer for what is right, you are blessed. "Do not fear what they fear; do not be frightened."... Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect, keeping a clear conscience... (1 Peter, 3:13-16)
But if a widow has children or grandchildren, these should learn first of all to put their religion into practice by caring for their own family and so repaying their parents and grandparents, for this is pleasing to God. (1 Timothy, 5:4)
Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God, who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment. Command them to do good, to be rich in good deeds, and to be generous and willing to share. In this way they will lay up treasure for themselves as a firm foundation for the coming age, so that they may take hold of the life that is truly life. (1 Timothy, 6:17-19)
But how is it to your credit if you receive a beating for doing wrong and endure it? But if you suffer for doing good and you endure it, this is commendable before God. (1 Peter, 2:20)
Therefore, as God's chosen people [faithful servants], holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. (Colossians, 3:12)
But because of your stubbornness and your unrepentant heart, you are storing up wrath against yourself for the day of God's Wrath, when His righteous judgment will be revealed. God "will give to each person according to what he has done." To those who by persistence in doing good seek glory, honor and immortality, He will give eternal life [in paradise]. But for those who are self-seeking and who reject the truth and follow evil, there will be wrath and anger. There will be trouble and distress for every human being who does evil... but glory, honor and peace for everyone who does good... (Romans, 2:5-10)
I myself am convinced, my brothers, that you yourselves are full of goodness, complete in knowledge and competent to instruct one another. (Romans, 15:14)
Everyone has heard about your obedience, so I am full of joy over you; but I want you to be wise about what is good, and innocent about what is evil (Romans, 16:19)
For the fruit of the light consists in all goodness, righteousness and truth and find out what pleases the Lord. Have nothing to do with the fruitless deeds of darkness, but rather expose them. For it is shameful even to mention what the disobedient do in secret. (Ephesians, 5:9-12)
I would have liked to keep him with me so that he could take your place in helping me while I am in chains for the Gospel. But I did not want to do anything without your consent, so that any favor you do will be spontaneous and not forced. (Philemon, 1:13-14)
Like Sarah, who obeyed Abraham and called him her master. You are her daughters if you do what is right and do not give way to fear. (1 Peter, 3:6)
So then, those who suffer according to God's Will should commit themselves to their faithful Creator and continue to do good. (1 Peter, 4:19)
With this in mind, we constantly pray for you, that our God may count you worthy of His calling, and that by His power He may fulfill every good purposeof yours and every act prompted by your faith. (2 Thessalonians, 1:11)
Rather, as servants of God we commend ourselves in every way: in great endurance; in troubles, hardships and distresses; in beatings, imprisonments and riots; in hard work, sleepless nights and hunger; in purity, understanding, patience and kindness... and in sincere love; in truthful speech and in the power of God; with weapons of righteousness in the right hand and in the left... (2 Corinthians, 6:4-8)
"Honor your father and mother"—which is the first commandment with a promise—"that it may go well with you and that you may enjoy long life on the earth." (Ephesians, 6:2-3)
I am saying this for your own good, not to restrict you, but that you may live in a right way in undivided devotion to the Lord. (1 Corinthians, 7:35)
In Joppa there was a disciple named Tabitha... who was always doing good and helping the poor. (Acts, 9:36)
The men replied, "We have come from Cornelius the centurion. He is a righteous and God-fearing man, who is respected by all the Jewish people"... (Acts, 10:22)
Abstaining from Hypocrisy and Showing-off
Be careful not to do your 'acts of righteousness' before men, to be seen by them. If you do, you will have no reward from your Lord... (Matthew, 6:1)
... So when you give to the needy, do not announce it with trumpets, as the hypocrites do... to be honored by men. I tell you the truth, they have received their reward in full. But when you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, so that your giving may be in secret. Then... [God] Who sees what is done in secret, will reward you. (Matthew, 6:2-4)
And when you pray, do not be like the hypocrites, for they love to pray standing... on the street corners to be seen by men. I tell you the truth, they have received their reward in full. (Matthew, 6:5)
Then Jesus said to the crowds and to his disciples: "... So you must obey them and do everything they tell you. But do not do what they do, for they do not practice what they preach. They tie up heavy loads and put them on men's shoulders, but they themselves are not willing to lift a finger to move them. "Everything they do is done for men to see..." (Matthew, 23:1-5)
[Jesus:] "Woe to you... you hypocrites! You are like whitewashed tombs, which look beautiful on the outside but on the inside are full of dead men's bones and everything unclean. In the same way, on the outside you appear to people as righteous but on the inside you are full of hypocrisy and wickedness. (Matthew, 23:27-28)
When you fast, do not look somber as the hypocrites do, for they disfigure their faces to show men they are fasting... (Matthew, 6:16)
They devour widows' houses and for a show make lengthy prayers. Such men will be punished most severely. (Mark, 12:40; Luke 20:47)
Then Jesus said to his host, "... But when you give a banquet, invite the poor, the crippled, the lame, the blind, and you will be blessed. Although they cannot repay you, you will be repaid at the resurrection of the righteous." When one of those at the table with him heard this, he said to Jesus, "Blessed is the man who will eat at the feast in the kingdom of God [paradise]." (Luke, 14:12-15)
Cleansing the Lower Self, Abstaining from Self-Centered Passions of the Lower Self
The acts of the sinful nature are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity and debauchery; idolatry and witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions and envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like. I warn you, as I did before, that those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of God [paradise]. But the fruit of the Spirit [that is Divine] is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. (Galatians, 5:19-23)
In order that the righteous requirements of the law [God's commandments] might be fully met in us, who do not live according to the sinful nature but according to the Spirit of God [the approval of God]. Those who live according to the sinful nature have their minds set on what that nature desires; but those who live in accordance with the Spirit of God [approval of God] have their minds set on what the nature desires. The mind of sinful man is death [the torment of hell], but the mind controlled by the Spirit [God] is life and peace; the sinful mind is hostile to. It does not submit to God's law, nor can it do so. Those controlled by the sinful nature cannot please God. (Romans, 8:4-8)
Surely you heard of him [Jesus] and were taught in him in accordance with the truth... You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; to be made new in the attitude of your minds; and to put on the new self... in true righteousness and holiness. (Ephesians, 4:21-24)
So I say, live by the God's Spirit, and you will never fulfill the desires of the flesh. (Galatians, 5:16)
Put to death, therefore, whatever belongs to your earthly nature: sexual immorality, impurity, lust, evil desires and greed, which is idolatry. Because of these, the wrath of God is coming. You used to walk in these ways, in the life you once lived. But now you must rid yourselves of all such things as these: anger, rage, malice, slander, and filthy language from your lips. Do not lie to each other, since you have taken off your old self with its practices... (Colossians, 3:5-10)
For if you live according to the sinful nature, you will die [go to hell]; but if by the Spirit of God [for the approval of God] you put to death the misdeeds of the body, you will live [go to paradise]. (Romans, 8:13)
For when we were controlled by the sinful nature, the sinful passions aroused... were at work in our bodies, so that we bore fruit for death [the torments of hell]. (Romans, 7:5)
The one who sows to please his sinful nature, from that nature will reap destruction [the torment of hell]; the one who sows to please [God]... will reap eternal life [paradise]. Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers. (Galatians, 6:8-10)
Through these He [God] has given us His very great and precious promises, so that through them you... escape the corruption in the world caused by evil desires. For this very reason, make every effort to add to your faith goodness; and to goodness, knowledge; and to knowledge, self-control; and to self-control, perseverance; and to perseverance, godliness; and to godliness, brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness, love. ( 2 Peter, 1:4-7)
These men are springs without water and mists driven by a storm. Blackest darkness is reserved for them. For they mouth empty, boastful words and, by appealing to the lustful desires of sinful human nature, they entice people who are just escaping from those who live in error. They promise them freedom, while they themselves are slaves of depravity—for a man is a slave to whatever has mastered him. (2 Peter, 2:17-19)
As obedient children, do not conform to the evil desires you had when you lived in ignorance. But just as He Who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do... (1 Peter, 1:14-15)
Dear friends, I urge you, as aliens and strangers in the world, to abstain from sinful desires, which war against your soul. Live such good lives among the pagans that, though they accuse you of doing wrong, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day He visits us. (1 Peter, 2:11-12)
The night is nearly over; the day is almost here. So let us put aside the deeds of darkness and put on the armor of light [spiritual armors]. Let us behave decently, as in the daytime, not in orgies and drunkenness, not in sexual immorality and debauchery, not in dissension and jealousy... [Do] not think about how to gratify the desires of the sinful nature. (Romans, 13:12-14)
People who want to get rich fall into temptation and a trap and into many foolish and harmful desires that plunge men into ruin and destruction. For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil. Some people, eager for money, have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs. (1 Timothy, 6:9-10)
Many will follow their shameful ways and will bring the way of truth into disrepute. In their greed these will exploit you with stories they have made up. Their condemnation has long been hanging over them, and their destruction has not been sleeping. (2 Peter, 2:2-3)
As for you, you were dead in your transgressions and sins, in which you used to live when you followed the ways of this world... All of us also lived among them at one time, gratifying the cravings of our sinful nature and following its desires and thoughts. Like the rest, we were by nature objects of wrath. (Ephesians, 2:1-3)
If this is so, then the Lord knows how to rescue godly men from trials and to hold the unrighteous for the day of judgment, while continuing their punishment. This is especially true of those who follow the corrupt desire of the sinful nature and despise authority. Bold and arrogant, these men are not afraid to slander celestial beings... But these men blaspheme in matters they do not understand. They are like brute beasts, creatures of instinct, born only to be caught and destroyed, and like beasts they too will perish. They will be paid back with harm for the harm they have done. Their idea of pleasure is to carouse in broad daylight. They are blots and blemishes, reveling in their pleasures while they feast with you. With eyes full of adultery, they never stop sinning; they seduce the unstable; they are experts in greed—an accursed brood! (2 Peter, 2:9-14)
Doing Good Works and Competing to Do Good
You, my brothers, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the sinful nature [to abide by your lower-self]; rather, serve one another in love. (Galatians, 5:13)
Serve wholeheartedly, as if you were serving the Lord [for God's good pleasure], not men, because you know that the Lord will reward everyone for whatever good he does, whether he is slave or free. (Ephesians, 6:7-8)
[Jesus:] "Whoever serves me [for God's good pleasure] must follow me; and where I am, my servant also will be. God will honor the one who serves me." (John, 12:26)
Each one should use whatever gift he has received to serve others, faithfully administering God's grace in its various forms. If anyone speaks, he should do it as one speaking the very words of God. If anyone serves, he should do it with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised... (1 Peter, 4:10-11)
Jesus said to them, "The kings of the Gentiles lord it over them; and those who exercise authority over them call themselves benefactors. But you are not to be like that. Instead, the greatest among you should be like the youngest, and the one who rules like the one who serves." (Luke, 22:25-26)
This service that you perform is not only supplying the needs of God's people [those who devote themselves to God] but is also overflowing in many expressions of thanks to God. Because of the service by which you have proved yourselves, men will praise God for the obedience that accompanies your confession of the Gospel of Christ, and for your generosity in sharing with them and with everyone else. (2 Corinthians, 9:12-13)
Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize. Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training. They do it to get a crown that will not last; but we do it to get a crown that will last forever. Therefore I do not run like a man running aimlessly... (1 Corinthians, 9:24-27)
Religion that God... accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world. (James, 1:27)
In reply Jesus said: "A man was going down from Jerusalem to Jericho, when he fell into the hands of robbers. They stripped him of his clothes, beat him and went away, leaving him half dead... But a Samaritan... came where the man was... Then he put the man on his own donkey, took him to an inn and took care of him. The next day he took out two silver coins and gave them to the innkeeper. 'Look after him,' he said, 'and when I return, I will reimburse you for any extra expense you may have.' "Which of these three do you think was a neighbor to the man who fell into the hands of robbers?" The expert in the law [religious scholar] replied, "The one who had mercy on him." Jesus told him, "Go and do likewise." (Luke, 10:30-37)
In Joppa there was a disciple named Tabitha (which, when translated, is Dorcas), who was always doing good and helping the poor. (Acts, 9:36)
The disciples, each according to his ability, decided to provide help for the brothers living in Judea. This they did, sending their gift to the elders by Barnabas and Saul. (Acts, 11:29-30)
In Galilee these women had followed him and cared for his needs... (Mark, 15:41)
You yourselves know that these hands of mine have supplied my own needs and the needs of my companions. (Acts, 20:34)
Because anyone who serves Christ [for God's good pleausure] in this way is pleasing to God and approved by men. (Romans, 14:18)
Therefore I glory in Christ Jesus [as a person devoted to Jesus for God's good pleasure] in my service to God. (Romans, 15:17)
Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honor one another above yourselves. Never be lacking in zeal... serving the Lord. Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. Share with God's people [those who devote themselves to God] who are in need. Practice hospitality. (Romans, 12:10-14)
Now, however, I am on my way to Jerusalem in the service of the saints [those who devote themselves to God] there. For Macedonia and Achaia were pleased to make a contribution for the poor among the saints in Jerusalem... So after I have completed this task and have made sure that they have received this fruit, I will go to Spain and visit you on the way... (Romans, 15:25-29)
[A widow]... is well known for her good deeds... helping those in trouble and devoting herself to all kinds of good deeds... (1 Timothy, 5:10)
If any woman who is a believer has widows in her family, she should help them and not let the church be burdened with them, so that the church can help those widows who are really in need. (1 Timothy, 5:16)
The poor you will always have with you, and you can help them any time you want. But you will not always have me. (Mark, 14:7)
Selling their possessions and goods, they gave to anyone as he had need. (Acts, 2:45)
There were no needy persons among them. For from time to time those who owned lands or houses sold them, brought the money from the sales and bring the money to the apostles, and it was distributed to anyone as he had need. (Acts, 4:34-35)
What good is it, my brothers, if a man claims to have faith but has no deeds? Can such faith save him? Suppose a brother or sister is without clothes and daily food. If one of you says to him, "Go, I wish you well; keep warm and well fed," but does nothing about his physical needs, what good is it?... You see that his [Abraham's] faith and his actions were working together, and his faith was made complete by what he did. (James, 2:14-22)
Do not work for food that spoils, but for food that endures to eternal life... (John, 6:27)
... These women were helping to support them [Jesus and his disciples] out of their own means. (Luke, 8:3)
Our people must learn to devote themselves to doing what is good, in order that they may provide for daily necessities and not live unproductive lives. (Titus, 3:14)
Greet Tryphena and Tryphosa, those women who work hard in the Lord [on God's path]. Greet my dear friend Persis, another woman who has worked very hard in the Lord [on God's path]. (Romans, 16:12)
You know that the household of Stephanas were the first converts in Achaia, and they have devoted themselves to the service of the saints [those who devote themselves to God]. I urge you, brothers, to submit to such as these and to everyone who joins in the work, and labors at it. (1 Corinthians, 16:15-16)
And we are sending along with him the brother who is praised by all the churches for his service to the Gospel. What is more, he was chosen by the churches to accompany us as we carry the offering, which we administer in order to honor the Lord Himself and to show our eagerness to help. (2 Corinthians, 8:18-19)
You know that Timothy has proved himself.. He has served with me in the work of the Gospel. (Philippians, 2:22)
Those who have believing masters are not to show less respect for them because they are brothers. Instead, they are to serve them even better, because those who benefit from their service are believers, and dear to them. These are the things you are to teach and urge on them. (1 Timothy, 6:2)
... On the contrary, when he was in Rome, he searched hard for me until he found me. May the Lord grant that he will find mercy from the Lord on that day! You know very well in how many ways he helped me in Ephesus. (2 Timothy, 1:16-18)
... So that any favor you do will be spontaneous and not forced. (Philemon, 1:13-14)
God... will not forget your work and the love you have shown Him as you have helped His people [those who devote themselves to God] and continue to help them. We want each of you to show this same diligence to the very end, in order to make your hope sure. We do not want you to become lazy, but to imitate those who through faith and patience inherit what has been promised. (Hebrews, 6:10-12)
I know your deeds, your love and faith, your service and perseverance, and that you are now doing more than you did at first. (Revelation, 2:19)
Therefore, since through God's mercy we have this ministry, we do not lose heart. Rather, we have renounced secret and shameful ways; we do not use deception, nor do we distort the word of God. On the contrary, by setting forth the truth plainly we commend ourselves to every man's conscience in the Sight of God. (2 Corinthians, 4:1-2)
He [Jesus] touched her hand and the fever left her, and she got up and began to serve for him [for God's good pleasure]. (Matthew, 8:15)
For when David had served God's purpose in his own generation, he fell asleep; he was buried with his fathers and his body decayed. (Acts, 13:36)
Their purpose is to prepare God's people [who devote themselves to God] to serve... (Ephesians, 4:12)
Obeying God's Commandments at the Same Time as Advising Others to Heed Them
Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says. (James, 1:22)
... The man who looks intently into the perfect law [God's commandments] that gives freedom, and continues to do this, not forgetting what he has heard, but doing it—he will be blessed in what he does. (James, 1:25)
... All who sin under the law [God's commandments] will be judged by the law. For it is not those who hear the law who are righteous in God's Sight, but it is those who obey the law who will be declared righteous. (Romans, 2:12-13)
As it is, you boast and brag. All such boasting is evil. Anyone, then, who knows the good he ought to do and doesn't do it, sins. (James, 4:16-17)
Respecting Devout Parents
[Jesus:] "You know the commandments [of God]: 'Do not murder, do not commit adultery, do not steal, do not give false testimony, do not defraud, honor your father and mother.'" (Mark, 10:19)
[Jesus:] "... Honor your father and mother..." (Luke, 18:20; Matthew, 19:19)
Children, obey your parents in the Lord [for the approval of God], for this is right. "Honor your father and mother"—which is the first commandment with a promise—"that it may go well with you and that you may enjoy long life on the earth." Fathers, do not exasperate your children; instead, bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord. (Ephesians, 6:1-4)
For Moses said, 'Honor your father and your mother'... (Mark, 7:10)
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