Pleasant Words from the Gospel

Belief in the Hereafter According to the Gospel

Belief in Resurrection

... The hour is coming when all who are in their graves will hear His voice and come out—those who have done good will rise to live, and those who have done evil will rise to be condemned.  (John, 5:28-29)

Then Jesus said to his host, "... 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 [paradise]."  (Luke, 14:12-14)

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. But someone may ask, "How are the dead raised? With what kind of body will they come?" How foolish! What you sow does not come to life unless it dies. So will it be with the resurrection of the dead. The body that is sown is perishable, it is raised imperishable; it is sown in dishonor, it is raised in glory; it is sown in weakness, it is raised in power.  (1 Corinthians, 15:34-36, 42-44)

But about the resurrection of the dead—have you not read what God said to you.  (Matthew, 22:31)

I declare to you, brothers... nor does the perishable inherit the imperishable. Listen, I tell you a mystery: ... We will all be changed in a flash, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet. For the trumpet will sound, the dead will be raised imperishable, and we will be changed [created with a new creation].  (1 Corinthians, 15:50-52)

And I have the same hope in God as these men, that there will be a resurrection of both the righteous and the wicked. So I strive always to keep my conscience clear before God...  (Acts, 24 :15-16)

Belief in the Day of Judgment

Everything is uncovered and laid bare before the eyes of Him to Whom we must give account.  (Hebrews, 4:13)

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 [paradise]. 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)

But I tell you that men will have to give account on the day of judgment for every careless word they have spoken. For by your words you will be acquitted, and by your words you will be condemned.  (Matthew, 12:36-37)

He said in a loud voice, "Fear God and give Him glory, because the hour of His judgment has come. Worship Him Who made the heavens, the earth, the sea and the springs of water."  (Revelation, 14:7)

His work will be shown for what it is, because the Day will bring it to light. It will be revealed with fire, and the fire will test the quality of each man's work.  (1 Corinthians, 3:13)

We will all stand before God's judgment seat. It is written: "'As surely as I live,' says the Lord, 'every knee will bow before Me; every tongue will confess to God.' So then, each of us will give an account of himself to God.  (Romans, 14:10-12)

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 [Surely God is beyond that].  (2 Peter, 2:9-10)

Do not be deceived: ... A man reaps what he sows. The one who sows to please his sinful nature [who abides by his lower self], from that nature will reap destruction; the one who sows to please... [God]... will reap eternal life.  (Galatians, 6:7-8)

Now we know that whatever the law says [God's commandments], it says to those who are under the law [to those who are held responsible to abide by God's commandments], so that every mouth may be silenced and the whole world held accountable to God.  (Romans, 3:19)

Each one should test his own actions. Then he can take pride in himself, without comparing himself to somebody else, for each one should carry his own load.  (Galatians, 6:4-5)

Anyone who breaks one of the least of these commandments and teaches others to do the same will be called least in the kingdom of God [in the hereafter], but whoever practices and teaches these commands will be called great in the kingdom of God [in the hereafter].  (Matthew, 5:19)

You have heard that it was said to the people long ago, 'Do not murder, anyone who murders will be subject to judgment.' But I tell you that anyone who is angry with his brother will be subject to judgment. Again, anyone who says to his brother, 'You fool!' will be in danger of the fire of hell. (Matthew, 5:21-22)

I tell you the truth, it will be more bearable for Sodom and Gomorrah on the day of judgment than for that town.  (Matthew, 10:15)

And you, Capernaum, will you be lifted up to the skies? No, you will go down to the place of dead [hell]... But I tell you, even Sodom will be better off on judgment day than you."  (Matthew, 11:23-24)

I tell you, it will be more bearableon that day [judgment day] for Sodom than for that town. "Woe to you, Korazin! Woe to you, Bethsaida! For if the miracles that were performed in you had been performed in Tyre and Sidon, they would have repented long ago, sitting in sackcloth and ashes. But it will be more bearable for Tyre and Sidon at the judgment than for you."  (Luke, 10:12-14)

There is a Judge [God] for the one who rejects me and does not accept my words; that very word which I spoke will condemn him at the last day.  (John, 12:48)

You, therefore, have no excuse, you who pass judgment on someone else, for at whatever point you judge the other, you are condemning yourself, because you who pass judgment do the same things. Now we know that God's judgment against those who do such things is based on truth. So when you, a mere man, pass judgment on them and yet do the same things, do you think you will escape God's judgment?  (Romans, 2: 1-3)

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.  (Romans, 2:5-6)

Isaiah cries out concerning Israel: "Though the number of the Israelites be like the sand by the sea, only the remnant will be saved. For the Lord will carry out his sentence on earth with speed and finality."  (Romans, 9:27-28)

I care very little if I am judged by you or by any human court; indeed, I do not even judge myself. My conscience is clear, but that does not make me innocent. It is the Lord Who judges me.  (1 Corinthians, 4:3-4)

But they will have to give account to God Who is ready to judge the living and the dead.  (1 Peter, 4:5)

 For it is time for judgment to begin...  (1 Peter, 4:17)

In this way, love is made complete among us [believers] so that we will have confidence on the day of judgment...  (Jude, 4:17)

To Him [God] Who is able to keep you from falling and to present you before His glorious Presence without fault and with great joy—to the only God our Savior be glory, majesty, power and authority... before all ages, now and forevermore! Amen.  (Jude, 1:24-25)

Belief in the Last Day

 Be careful, or your hearts will be weighed down with dissipation, drunkenness and the anxieties of life, and that day will close on you unexpectedly like a trap. For it will come upon all those who live on the face of the whole earth. Be always on the watch, and pray that you may be able to escape all that is about to happen...  (Luke, 21:34-36)

But in those days, following that distress, the sun will be darkened, and the moon will not give its light...  (Mark, 13:24-25)

But the day of the Lord will come like a thief [all of a sudden]. 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... That day will bring about the destruction of the heavens by fire, and the elements will melt in the heat. (Peter, 3:10-12)

No one knows about that day or hour, not even the angels in heaven... but only the Lord. Be on guard! Be alert! You do not know when that time will come.  (Mark, 13:32-33)

No one knows about that day or hour, not even the angels in heaven... but only the God.  (Matthew, 24:36)

How dreadful it will be in those days for pregnant women and nursing mothers!... those will be days of distress unequaled from the beginning, when God created the world, until now—and never to be equaled again.  (Mark, 13:17-19)

... 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, 24:50-51)

The wrath of God is being revealed from heaven against all the godlessness and wickedness of men who suppress the truth by their wickedness... God has made it plain to them.  (Romans, 1:18-19)

Now listen, you rich people, weep and wail because of the misery that is coming upon you. Your wealth has rotted, and moths have eaten your clothes. Your gold and silver are corroded. Their corrosion will testify against you and eat your flesh like fire. You have hoarded wealth in the last days. Look! The wages you failed to pay the workmen who mowed your fields are crying out against you. The cries of the harvesters have reached the ears of the Lord Almighty. You have lived on earth in luxury and self-indulgence. You have fattened yourselves in the day of slaughter [day of reckoning].  (James, 5:1-5)

Belief in Paradise

A faith and knowledge resting on the hope of eternal life [paradise], which God, Who does not lie, promised before the beginning of time.  (Titus, 1:2)

Jesus gave them this answer: "I tell you the truth, whoever hears my word and believes Him Who sent me has eternal life [paradise] and will not be condemned..."  (John, 5:19-24)

The Lord will rescue me from every evil attack and will bring me safely to His heavenly kingdom [paradise]. To Him be glory for ever and ever. Amen.  (2 Timothy, 4: 18)

Do not work for food that spoils, but for food that endures to eternal life [paradise]...  (John, 6:27)

I tell you the truth, he who believes has everlasting life [paradise].  (John, 6:47)

"Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven [the hereafter], where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.  (Matthew, 6:19-21)

"No eye has seen, no ear has heard, no mind has conceived what God has prepared for those who love Him."  (1 Corinthians, 2:9)

Then the righteous will shine like the sun in the kingdom of their Lord [paradise]. He who has ears, let him hear!... This is how it will be at the end of the age. The angels will come and separate the wicked from the righteous and throw them into the fiery furnace, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth. "Have you understood all these things?" Jesus asked.  "Yes," they replied.  (Matthew, 13:43-51)

From that time on Jesus began to preach, "Repent, for the kingdom of heaven [the life of the hereafter] is near." (Matthew, 4:17)

He began to teach them saying: "... for theirs is the kingdom of heaven [paradise]... for they will be comforted. Blessed are the meek! For they will inherit the earth. Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness! For they will be filled. Blessed are the merciful! For they will be shown mercy. Blessed are the pure in heart! For they will see God. [What is meant here is that righteous believers will see the manifestation of God's Glorious Personage as a blessing of paradise]... Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness! For theirs is the kingdom of God [paradise]. Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me! Rejoice and be glad! Because great is your reward in heaven [the hereafter], for in the same way they persecuted the Prophets who were before you."  (Matthew, 5:2-12)

At that time the disciples came to Jesus and asked, "Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven [the hereafter]?" He called a little child and had him stand among them. And he said: "I tell you the truth, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven [the hereafter]. Therefore, whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven [the hereafter].  (Matthew, 18:1-4)

I know that His [God's] command leads to eternal life [paradise]. So whatever I say is just what God has told me to say."  (John, 12:50)

Fight the good fight of the faith. Take hold of the eternal life [paradise] to which you were called when you made your good confession in the presence of many witnesses.  (1 Timothy, 6:12)

Therefore, since the promise of entering His rest [paradise] still stands, let us be careful that none of you be found to have fallen short of it. For we also have had the Gospel preached to us, just as they did; but the message they heard was of no value to them, because those who heard did not combine it with faith. Now we who have believed enter that rest [paradise], just as God has said, "So I declared on oath in my anger, 'They shall never enter My rest [paradise]'"...  (Hebrews, 4:1-3)

It still remains that some will enter that rest [paradise], and those who formerly had the Gospel preached to them did not go in, because of their disobedience.  (Hebrews, 4:6)

Let us, therefore, make every effort to enter that rest [paradise], so that no one will fall by following their example of disobedience.  (Hebrews, 4:11)

And again in the passage above he says, "They shall never enter my rest [paradise]."  (Hebrews, 4:5)

... And to whom did God swear that they would never enter His rest [paradise] if not to those who disobeyed? So we see that they were not able to enter, because of their unbelief.  (Hebrews, 3:18-19)

... Away from me, all you evildoers!' "There will be weeping there, and gnashing of teeth, when you see Abraham, Isaac and Jacob and all the Prophets in the kingdom of God [paradise], but you yourselves thrown out.  (Luke, 13:27-28)

Then they will go away to eternal punishment [hell], but the righteous to eternal life [paradise]..."  (Matthew, 25:46)

But in keeping with His promise we are looking forward to a new heaven and a new earth, the home of righteousness. So then, dear friends, since you are looking forward to this, make every effort to be found spotless, blameless and at peace with Him.  (2 Peter 3:13-14)

For in the Gospel a righteousness from God is revealed, a righteousness that is by faith from first to last, just as it is written: "The righteous will live [in paradise] by faith."  (Romans, 1:17)

... Whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life [paradise].  (John, 3:16)

I tell you the truth," Jesus replied, "no one who has left home or brothers or sisters or mother or father or children or fields for me and the Gospel [for God's approval] will fail to receive a hundred times as much in this present age  (homes, brothers, sisters, mothers, children and fields—and with them, persecutions) and in the age to come, eternal life [paradise]. But many who are first will be last, and the last first."  (Mark, 10:29-31)

Belief in Hell

But I will show you Whom you should fear: Fear Him Who, after the killing of the body, has power to throw you into hell. Yes, I tell you, fear Him.  (Luke, 12:5)

... into the darkness [hell], where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.  (Matthew, 22: 13)

As the weeds are pulled up and burned in the fire, so it will be at the end of the age... [God] will send out His angels, and they will weed... everything that causes sin and all who do evil... They will throw them into the fiery furnace, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth... "Once again, the kingdom of heaven [the questioning in the hereafter] is like a net that was let down into the lake and caught all kinds of fish. When it was full, the fishermen pulled it up on the shore. Then they sat down and collected the good fish in baskets, but threw the bad away. This is how it will be at the end of the age. The angels will come and separate the wicked from the righteous and throw them into the fiery furnace [hell], where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.  (Matthew, 13:40-50)

... [The wrath of God] 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 [hell] with the hypocrites, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.  (Matthew, 24:50-51)

And you, Capernaum, will you be lifted up to the skies? No, you will go down to the depths [hell]. If the miracles that were performed in you had been performed in Sodom, it would have remained to this day. But I tell you that it will be more bearable for Sodom on the day of judgment than for you. (Matthew, 11:23-24)

Then they [the wicked] will go away to eternal punishment [hell], but the righteous to eternal life [paradise]."  (Matthew, 25:46)

... Away from me, all you evildoers! "There will be weeping there, and gnashing of teeth, when you see Abraham, Isaac and Jacob and all the Prophets in the kingdom of God, but you yourselves thrown out.  (Luke, 13:27-28)

And you, Capernaum, will you be lifted up to the skies? No, you will go down to the depths [hell]... But I tell you that it will be more bearable for Sodom on the day of judgment than for you.  (Matthew, 11:23-24)

The time came when the beggar died... The rich man also died and was buried. In hell, where he was in torment, he looked up and saw Abraham far away, with Lazarus by his side. So he called to him, '... Father Abraham, have pity on me and send Lazarus to dip the tip of his finger in water and cool my tongue, because I am in agony in this fire.' But Abraham replied, 'Son, remember that in your lifetime you received your good things, while Lazarus received bad things, but now he is comforted here and you are in agony. And besides all this, between us and you a great chasm has been fixed, so that those who want to go from here [paradise] to you cannot, nor can anyone cross over from there [hell] to us.'  (Luke, 16:22-26)

You snakes! You brood of vipers! How will you escape being condemned to hell? Therefore I am sending you prophets and wise men and teachers. Some of them you will kill... others you will flog in your synagogues and pursue from town to town.  (Matthew, 23:33-34)

Belief in Timelessness and Destiny According to the Gospel

For it is by grace [by the grace of God] you have been saved, through faith and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God not by works, so that no one can boast. For we are God's masterpiece... to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.  (Ephesians, 2:8-10)

... The remnant of men may seek the Lord, and all the Gentiles... says the Lord, Who does these things' that have been known for ages.  (Acts, 15:17-18)

... Your Lord knows what you need before you ask Him.  (Mathew, 6:8)

... He was named Jesus, the name the angel had given him [by the will of God] before he had been conceived.  (Luke, 2:21)

... I want those You have given me to be with me where I am, and to see my glory, the glory You [God] have given me because You loved me before the creation of the world... though the world does not know You, I know You, and they know that You have sent me.  (John, 17:24-25)

But do not forget this one thing, dear friends: With the Lord a day is like a thousand years, and a thousand years are like a day...  (2 Peter, 3:8)

He was chosen before the creation of the world, but was revealed in these last times for your sake... you believe in God... and so your faith and hope are in God.  (1 Peter, 1:20-21)

Whoever does not believe [in God] stands condemned already...  (John, 3:18)

For He [God] chose us... before the creation of the world to be holy and blameless in His Sight... He predestined us to be adopted as His [servants]... in accordance with His pleasure and will.  (Ephesians, 1:4-5)

... God, Who has saved us and called us to a holy life not because of anything we have done but because of His own purpose and grace. This grace was given us in Christ Jesus [in our obeying Jesus for the approval of God] before the beginning of time, but it has now been revealed through the appearing of... Christ Jesus...  (2 Timothy, 1:8-10)

The sins of some men are obvious, reaching the place of judgment ahead of them... good deeds are obvious...  (1 Timothy, 5:24-25)

For we know, brothers loved by God, that He has chosen you [as believers].  (1 Thessalonians, 1:4)

... A wisdom... that God destined for our glory before time began. None of the rulers of this age understood it... However, as it is written: "No eye has seen, no ear has heard, no mind has conceived what God has prepared for those who love Him."  (1 Corinthians, 2:7-9)

At this they tried to seize him [Jesus], but no one laid a hand on him, because his time had not yet come.  (John, 7:30)

He [Jesus] spoke these words while teaching in the temple area near the place where the offerings were put. Yet no one seized him, because his time had not yet come.  (John, 8:20)

... He [Jesus] must remain in heaven [in the Presence of God] until the time comes for God to restore everything, as He promised long ago through His holy prophets.  (Acts, 3:18-21)

[They]... met together... to conspire against your holy servant Jesus... They did what Your power and will had decided beforehand should happen. (Acts, 4:27-28)

For truly in this city there were gathered together against Your holy servant Jesus... They did what Your power and will had decided beforehand should happen.  (Acts, 4:27-28)

Blessed is she who has believed that what the Lord has said to her will be accomplished!  (Luke, 1:45)

From: Paul, ... called to be an apostle and set apart for God's Gospel, which He promised beforehand through His prophets in the Holy Scriptures. (Romans, 1:2)

I am not referring to all of you; I know [by the will of God] those I have chosen. But this is to fulfill the scripture: 'He who shares my bread has lifted up his heel against me.' I am [by the will of God] telling you now before it happens, so that when it does happen you will believe that I am he.  (John, 13:18-19)

And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called [to belief] according to His purpose... And those He predestined, He also called; those He called, He also justified; those He justified, He also glorified.  (Romans, 8:28-30)

What if He [God] did this to make the riches of His glory known to the objects of His mercy, whom He prepared in advance for glory—even us, whom He also called, not only from the Jews but also from the Gentiles?  (Romans, 9:23-24)

Paul, a servant of God and an apostle of Jesus Christ for the faith of God's elect and the knowledge of the truth that leads to godliness a faith and knowledge resting on the hope of eternal life, which God, Who does not lie, promised before the beginning of time, and at His appointed season He brought His word to light through the preaching entrusted to me by the command of God, our Savior.  (Titus, 1:1-3)

And he swore by Him Who lives for ever and ever, Who created the heavens and all that is in them, the earth and all that is in it, and the sea and all that is in it, and said, "... The mystery of God will be accomplished, just as He announced to His servants the prophets."  (Revelation, 10:6-7)

But we ought always to thank God for you, brothers loved by the Lord, because from the beginning God chose you [created you in destiny as believers] to be saved... through belief in the truth.  (2 Thessalonians, 2:13)

He [Jesus] said to them: "It is not for you to know the times or dates... [God] has set by His own authority.  (Acts, 1:7)

When the Gentiles heard this, they were glad and honored the word of the Lord; and all who were appointed for eternal life believed.  (Acts, 13:48)

... to strengthen and encourage you in your faith, so that no one would be unsettled by these trials. You know quite well that we were destined for them.  (1 Thessalonians, 3:2-3)

They [those who do not believe] stumble because they disobey the message—which is also what they were destined for [they are created in destiny as to fail].  (1 Peter, 2:8)

... The appearing of... Jesus Christ, which God will bring about in His own time—God, the blessed and only Ruler, the King of kings and Lord of lords, Who alone is immortal and Who lives in unapproachable light, Whom no one has seen or can see. To Him be honor and might forever. Amen.  (1 Timothy, 6:14-16)

The Son of Man [Jesus] will go as it has been decreed...  (Luke, 22:22)

Pleasant Words from the Gospel

Fear of God According to the Gospel

I tell you, my friends, do not be afraid of those who kill the body and after that can do no more. But I will show you Whom you should fear: Fear Him Who, after the killing of the body, has power to throw you into hell. Yes, I tell you, fear Him.  (Luke, 12:4-5)

... So you must live in reverent fear of Him during your time as "foreigners in the land."  (1 Peter, 1:17)

Show proper respect to everyone: Love the brotherhood of believers, fear God...  (1 Peter, 2:17)

... to every nation, tribe, language and people.  He said in a loud voice, "Fear God and give Him glory..."  (Revelation, 14:6-7)

[Jesus:] "Do not be afraid of those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Rather, be afraid of the One Who can destroy both soul and body in hell." (Matthew, 10:28)

For the Mighty One [God] has done great things for me—holy is His name. His mercy extends to those who fear Him,  from generation to generation. (Luke, 1:49-50)

He and all his family were devout and God-fearing; he gave generously to those in need and prayed to God regularly.  (Acts, 10:2)

Therefore, since we know what it means to fear the Lord, we try to persuade people. We ourselves are perfectly known to God. I hope we are also really known to your consciences.  (2 Corinthians, 5:11)

He said in a loud voice, "Fear God and give Him glory, because the hour of His judgment has come. Worship Him Who made the heavens, the earth, the sea and the springs of water."  (Revelation, 14:7)

The men replied, "... He is a righteous and God-fearing man, who is respected by all the Jewish people..."  (Acts, 10:22)

Then Peter began to speak: "I now realize how true it is that God does not show favoritism but accepts men from every nation who fear Him and do what is right.  (Acts, 10:34-35)

Brothers, children of Abraham, and you God-fearing Gentiles, it is to us that this message of salvation has been sent.  (Acts, 13:26)

... Your wrath has come. The time has come for judging the dead,  and for rewarding your servants the prophets and your saints and those who reverence Your name,  both small and great—and for destroying those who destroy the earth.  (Revelation, 11:18)

... But the other rebuked him, saying "Don't you fear God..."  (Luke, 23:40)

... and sang the song of Moses the servant of God and the song of the Lamb [Jesus]: "Great and marvelous are Your deeds,  Lord God Almighty.  Just and true are Your ways, King of the ages.  Who will not fear You, O Lord,  and bring glory to Your name? For You alone are holy.  All nations will come  and worship before You,  for Your righteous acts have been revealed."  (Revelation, 15:3-4)

Then a voice came from the throne, saying: "Praise our God, all you His servants, you who fear Him,  both small and great!"  (Revelation, 19:5)

Therefore... let us... worship God acceptably with reverence and awe.  (Hebrews, 12:28)

Pure Faith in God According to the Gospel

To Serve God Alone without Ascribing Equals to Him

Jesus answered, "It is written: 'Worship the Lord your God and serve Him only.  (Luke, 4:8)

Jesus said to him, "... Worship the Lord your God, and serve Him only."  (Matthew, 4:10)

... My dear friends, flee from idolatry.  (1 Corinthians, 10:14)

For they themselves report what kind of reception you gave us. They tell how you turned to God from idols to serve the living and true God...  (1 Thessalonians, 1:9-10)

And instead of worshiping the glorious, ever-living God, they worshiped idols made to look like mere people and birds and animals and reptiles [surely God is beyond that]... They exchanged the truth of God for a lie, and worshiped and served created things rather than the Creator [surely God is beyond that]—Who is forever praised...  (Romans, 1:23-25)

... If then the light within you is darkness, how great is that darkness! No one can serve two masters.Either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money. (Matthew, 6:23-24)

[Jesus:] "No servant can serve two masters... You cannot serve both God and money."  (Luke, 16:13)

... 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. But food does not bring us near to God; we are no worse if we do not eat, and no better if we do.  (1 Corinthians, 8:7-8)

No, but the sacrifices of pagans are offered to demons, not to God, and I do not want you to be participants with demons.  You cannot drink the cup of the Lord and the cup of demons too; you cannot have a part in both the Lord's table and the table of demons.  (1 Corinthians, 10:20-21)

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.   (1 Corinthians, 8:4)

Dear children, keep yourselves from idols.  (1 John, 5:21)

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.   (Revelation, 9:20)

To Live for God's Approval Alone

So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.  (1 Corinthians, 10:31)

Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward...  (Colossians, 3:23-24)

He who regards one day as special, does so to the Lord. He who eats meat, eats to the Lord, for he gives thanks to God; and he who abstains, does so to the Lord and gives thanks to God.  For none of us lives to himself alone and none of us dies to himself alone. So, whether we live or die, we belong to the Lord.  (Romans, 14:6-8)

...  This is love for God: to obey His commands. And His commands are not burdensome... This is the victory that has overcome the world—our faith. (1 John, 5:2-4)

... This calls for patient endurance on the part of the saints who obey God's commandments and remain faithful to Jesus.  (Revelation, 14:12)

And we pray this in order that you may live a life worthy of the Lord and may please Him in every way: bearing fruit in every good work, growing in the knowledge of God.  (Colossians, 1:10)

And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to Him must believe that He exists and that He rewards those who earnestly seek Him.  (Hebrews, 11:6)

Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, let us be thankful, and so worship God acceptably with reverence and awe... (Hebrews, 12:28)

For it is commendable if a man bears up under the pain of unjust suffering because he is conscious of God.  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, 2:19-20)

... Each one should retain the place in life that the Lord assigned to him and to which God has called him. This is the rule I lay down in all the churches.  (1 Corinthians, 7:17)

... but only he who does the will of God [will enter the kingdom of paradise].  (Matthew, 7:21)

... From Whom all things came and for Whom we live; and there is but one Lord... through Whom all things came and through Whom we live.  (1 Corinthians, 8:5-6)

Indeed, those who are under the control of human nature [lower-self] cannot please God. You, however, are controlled not by the human nature but by the Spirit of God...   (Romans, 8:8-9)

Live as free men, but do not use your freedom as a cover-up for evil; live as servants of God.  (1 Peter, 2:16)

... He who has suffered in his body is done with sin.  As a result, he does not live the rest of his earthly life for evil human desires, but rather for the will of God.  (1 Peter, 4:1-2)

... Those who suffer according to God's will should commit themselves to their faithful Creator and continue to do good.  (1 Peter, 4:19)

[Jesus:] "The One [God] Who sent me is with me; He has not left me alone, for I always do what pleases Him [God]."   (John, 8:29)

Obey them not only to win their favor when their eye is on you... doing the will of God from your heart.  (Ephesians, 6:6)

The world and its desires pass away, but the man who does the will of God lives forever.  (1 John, 2:17)

... We speak as men approved by God to be entrusted with the Gospel. We are not trying to please men but God, Who tests our hearts.  (1 Thessalonians, 2:4)

Finally, brothers, we instructed you how to live in order to please God, as in fact you are living. Now we ask you and urge you... to do this more and more.  (1 Thessalonians, 4:1)

Because anyone who serves Christ in this way [the one who aids Jesus in the path of God] is pleasing to God and approved by men. Let us therefore make every effort to do what leads to peace and to mutual edification.  (Romans, 14:18-19)

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)

"Why do you ask me about what is good?" Jesus replied. "There is only One [God] Who is good. If you want to enter life, obey the commandments [of God]."  (Matthew, 19:17)

We know that God does not listen to sinners. He listens to the godly man who does His will.  (John, 9:31)

For it is not those who hear the law who are righteous in God's Sight, but it is those who obey the law [God's commandments] who will be declared righteous.  (Romans, 2:13)

... Keeping God's commands is what counts.   (1 Corinthians, 7:19)

So we make it our goal to please Him [God], whether we are at home in the body or away from it.  (2 Corinthians, 5:9)

Am I now trying to win the approval of men, or of God? Or am I trying to please men?  (Galatians, 1:10)

So you also, when you have done everything you were told to do, should say, 'We are unworthy servants; we have only done our duty.'"  (Luke, 17:10)

Children, obey your parents [who have faith] in everything, for this pleases the Lord.  (Colossians, 3:20)

Whoever does God's will is my brother and sister and mother.  (Mark, 3:35)

I urge, then, first of all, that requests, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made [to God] for everyone—for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. This is good, and pleases God...  (1 Timothy, 2:1-3)

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)

Jesus answered, "My teaching is not my own. It comes from Him [God] Who sent me.  If anyone chooses to do God's will, he will find out whether my teaching comes from God or whether I speak on my own.  He who speaks on his own does so to gain honor for himself, but he who works for the honor of the One [God] Who sent him is a man of truth...  (John, 7:16-18)

Dear friends, if our hearts do not condemn us, we have confidence before God  and receive from Him [God] anything we ask, because we obey His commands and do what pleases Him.  (1 John, 3:21-22)

For God is working in you, giving you the desire and the power to do what pleases Him.  (Philippians, 2:13)

Those who obey His [God's] commands live in Him [he lives close to God], and He in them [he lives feeling God's mercy upon himself]...  (1 John, 3:24)

"My food," said Jesus, "is to do the will of Him [God's] Who sent me and to finish His work [to ensure that God's commandments are fulfilled]. " (John, 4:34)

For I [Jesus] have come... not to do my will but to do the will of Him [God's] Who sent me.  (John, 6:38)

To Shun the Superstitious Rites and Religion of the Ancestors

Then... came to Jesus... and asked, "Why do your disciples break the tradition of the elders?... Jesus replied, "And why do you break the command of God for the sake of your tradition?"  (Matthew, 15:1-3)

... [They] asked Jesus, "Why don't your disciples live according to the tradition of the elders...?" He [Jesus] replied, "... You have let go of the commands of God and are holding on to the traditions of men." And he [Jesus] said to them: "You have no trouble rejecting the commands of God in order to observe your own traditions!"  (Mark, 7:5-9)

The Oneness of God According to the Gospel

One of the teachers of the law came and heard them debating. Noticing that Jesus had given them a good answer, he asked him, "Of all the commandments, which is the most important?" "The most important one," answered Jesus, "is this: 'Hear, O Israel, the Lord our God, the Lord is One." "Well said, teacher," the man replied. "You are right in saying that God is One and there is no other but Him."  (Mark, 12:28-32)

... But God is One.  (Galatians, 3:20)

There are different kinds of working, but the same God works all of them in all men.  (1 Corinthians, 12:6)

For there is one God...  (1 Timothy, 2:5)

Jesus said to him, "... Worship the Lord your God, and serve Him only." (Matthew, 4:10)

You believe that there is one God. Good! Even the demons believe that—and shudder.  (James, 2:19)

Now to the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only God, be honor and glory for ever and ever.  (1 Timothy, 1:17)

How can you believe if you accept praise from one another, yet make no effort to obtain the praise that comes from the only God?  (John, 5:44)

... You have one Lord...  (Matthew, 23:9)

As Jesus started on his way, a man ran up to him and fell on his knees before him. "Good teacher," he asked, "What must I do to inherit eternal life?" Jesus answered, "No one is good—except God alone."  (Mark 10:17-18)

... We know that an idol is nothing at all in the world and that there is no god but One... for us there is but one God, the God, from Whom all things came and for Whom we live...  (1 Corinthians, 8:4-6)

"Why do you ask me about what is good?" Jesus replied. "There is only One Who is good. If you want to enter life [paradise], obey the commandments of [God]."  (Matthew, 19:17)

For even if there are so-called gods [surely God is beyond that], whether in heaven or on earth yet for us there is one God, the God, for Whom all things came and for whom we live.  (1 Corinthians 8:5-6)

... One Lord, one faith... one God of all, Who is over all and through all and in all.  (Ephesians, 4:5-6)

For every house is built by someone, but God is the builder of everything.  (Hebrews, 3:4)

Now all glory to God...  (Jude, 1:24)

The Titles of God According to the Gospel

That God is the Creator of All Things

When they heard this, they raised their voices together in prayer to God. "Sovereign Lord," they said, "You made the heaven and the earth and the sea, and everything in them."  (Acts, 4:24)

The God Who made the world and everything in it is the Lord of heaven and earth...   (Acts, 17:24)

The God Who made the world and everything in it is the Lord of heaven and earth... He Himself gives all men life and breath and everything else... He made every nation of men, that they should inhabit the whole earth.  (Acts, 17:24-26)

... We are bringing you good news, telling you to turn from these worthless things to the living God, Who made heaven and earth and sea and everything in them. He [God] has shown kindness by giving you rain from heaven and crops in their seasons; He provides you with plenty of food and fills your hearts with joy.  (Acts, 14:15-17)

Fear God and give Him glory, because the hour of His judgment has come. Worship Him Who made the heavens, the earth, the sea and the springs of water.  (Revelation, 14:7)

He also says, "In the beginning, O Lord, You laid the foundations of the earth, and the heavens are the work of Your hands. [That God created everything from nothing, that He is the Creator of everything is depicted by means of a comparison.]  (Hebrews, 1:10)

For from Him and through Him and to Him are all things. To Him be the glory forever! Amen.  (Romans, 11:36)

... For we are God's masterpiece, created... to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.  (Ephesians, 2:10)

He [God] chose to give birth to us by giving us his true word. And we, out of all creation, became His prized possession.  (James, 1:18)

... You are worthy, our Lord and God, to receive glory and honor and power, for You created all things, and by Your will they were created and have their being.  (Revelation, 4:11)

For by Him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things were created by Him and for Him. He is before all things, and in Him all things hold together.  (Colossians, 1:16-17)

Yet for us there is but one God, from Whom all things came and for Whom we live; and there is but one Lord... through Whom all things came and through Whom we live.  (1 Corinthians, 8:6)

That God is Eternal and Timeless

He is before all things, and in Him all things hold together.  (Colossians, 1:17)

God, the blessed and only Ruler, the King of kings and Lord of lords, Who alone is immortal... Whom no one has seen or can see. To him be honor and might forever. Amen.  (1 Timothy, 6:15-16)

Now... eternal, immortal, invisible, the only God, be honor and glory for ever and ever.  (1 Timothy, 1:17)

... You have known Him [God] Who is from the beginning.  (1 John, 2:14)

... And the twenty-four elders... fell on their faces and worshiped God, saying: "We give thanks to You, Lord God Almighty, the One Who is and Who was..."  (Revelation, 11:16-17)

... Day and night they never stop saying: "Holy, holy, holy is the Lord God Almighty, Who was, and is, and is to come."  (Revelation, 4:8)

Because of the truth [God, the Rigteous] which lives in us and will be with us forever.  (2 John, 1:2)

For from Him and through Him and to Him are all things. To Him be the glory forever! Amen.  (Romans, 11:36)

... The glory of the immortal God...  (Romans, 1:23)

That God Sees, Hears and Knows All

Do not be like them, for God knows what you need before you ask Him.  (Matthew, 6:8)

Nothing in all creation is hidden from God's Sight. Everything is uncovered and laid bare before the eyes of Him to Whom we must give account. (Hebrews, 4:13)

For where two or three come together in My name, there am I with them.  (Matthew, 18:20)

Are not five sparrows sold for two pennies? Yet not one of them is forgotten by God. Indeed, the very hairs of your head are all numbered.  (Luke, 12:6-7)

We accept man's testimony, but God's testimony is greater...  (1 John, 5:9)

No one knows about that day or hour, not even the angels in heaven, but only the Lord.  (Matthew, 24:36)

... the depth of the riches of the wisdom and knowledge of God!  (Romans, 11:33)

That God Knows the Secret Aspects of All Things

... He will bring to light what is hidden in darkness and will expose the motives of men's hearts. At that time each will receive his praise from God. (1 Corinthians, 4:5)

For there is nothing hidden that will not be disclosed, and nothing concealed that will not be known or brought out into the open.  (Luke, 8:17)

For the word of God is living and active... it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.  (Hebrews, 4:12)

He said to them, "You are the ones who justify yourselves in the eyes of men, but God knows your hearts. What is highly valued among men is detestable in God's Sight."  (Luke, 16:15)

But when you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Lord, Who is unseen. Then your God, Who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.  (Matthew, 6:6)

That God is Almighty

Jesus looked at them and said, "With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible."  (Matthew, 19:26)

... Who is God over all, forever praised!  (Romans, 9:5)

 Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? Yet not one of them will fall to the ground apart from the will of God.  (Matthew, 10:29)

For Yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen.  (Matthew, 6:13)

... Great and marvelous are Your deeds, Lord God Almighty. Just and true are Your ways.  (Revelation, 15:3)

... Salvation and glory and power belong to our God, for true and just are His judgments...  For our Lord God Almighty reigns.  (Revelation, 19:1-6)

In Him we were also chosen, having been predestined according to the plan of Him [God's] Who works out everything in conformity with the purpose of His will. (Ephesians, 1:11)

... For there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God.  (Romans, 13:1)

... It is written: "'As surely as I live,' says the Lord, 'every knee will bow before Me; every tongue will praise God.'"  (Romans, 14: 11)

God, the blessed and only Ruler... Who alone is immortal and Who lives in unapproachable light, Whom no one has seen or can see. To Him be honor and might forever.  (1 Timothy, 6:15-16)

For nothing is impossible with God.  (Luke, 1:37)

And sang the song of Moses the servant of God and the song of the Lamb: "Great and marvelous are your deeds, Lord God Almighty. Just and true are Your ways, Lord of the ages. Who will not fear You, O Lord, and bring glory to Your name? For you alone are holy. All nations will come and worship before You, for Your righteous acts have been revealed."  (Revelation, 15: 3-4)

For from Him and through Him and to Him are all things. To Him be the glory forever!  (Romans, 11:36)

Now to Him Who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to His power that is at work within us.  (Ephesians, 3:20)

... Everything comes from God.  (1 Corinthians, 11:12)

That God is the Only Lord of Power and Will

"No one can receive anything unless God gives it..."  (John, 3: 27)

... The power of the Lord was present for him [Jesus] to heal the sick.  (Luke, 5:17)

Jesus replied, "Not everyone can accept this word, but only those to whom it has been given."  (Matthew, 19:11)

Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? Yet not one of them will fall to the ground apart from the will of your Lord.  (Matthew, 10:29)

For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast. For we are God's masterpiece, created... to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.  (Ephesians, 2:8-10)

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)

For the Mighty One has done great things for me—holy is His name.  (Luke, 1:49)

... It is not Moses who has given you the bread from heaven, but it is my Lord Who gives you the true bread from heaven.   (John, 6:32)

The earth is the Lord's, and everything in it.  (1 Corinthians, 10:26)

Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field.  (Matthew, 9:38)

But when they arrest you, do not worry about what to say or how to say it. At that time you will be given what to say, for it will not be you speaking, but the Lord speaking through you.  (Matthew, 10:19-20)

To Him Who is able to keep you from falling and to present you before His glorious Presence without fault...  (Jude, 1:24-25)

There is only one Lawgiver and Judge, the One Who is able to save and destroy.  (James, 4:12)

So neither he who plants nor he who waters is anything, but only God, Who makes things grow.  (1 Corinthians, 3:7)

Not that we are competent in ourselves to claim anything for ourselves, but our competence comes from God.  (2 Corinthians, 3:5-6)

That God is the Only One Worthy of Praise

Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to men on whom His favor rests.  (Luke, 2:14)

... Who is God over all, forever praised!  (Romans, 9:5)

The Creator—Who is forever praised. Amen.  (Romans, 1:25)

The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things they had heard and seen, which were just as they had been told.  (Luke, 2:20)

"Amen!  Praise and glory and wisdom and thanks and honor and power and strength be to our God for ever and ever."  (Revelation, 7:12)

With the tongue we praise our Lord...  (James, 3:9)

So that the Gentiles may glorify God for His mercy, as it is written: "Therefore I will praise you among the Gentiles; I will sing hymns to Your name." Again, it says, "Rejoice, O Gentiles, with his people." And again, "Praise the Lord, all you Gentiles, and sing praises to Him, all you peoples."  (Romans, 15: 9-11)

... Praise be to the God...  (2 Corinthians, 1:3; Ephesians, 1:3)

That God Kills and Resurrects

... This happened that we might not rely on ourselves but on God...  (2 Corinthians, 1:9)

Why should any of you consider it incredible that God raises the dead?  (Acts, 26:8)

In the Sight of God, Who gives life to everything...  (1 Timothy, 6:13)

He Who... will also give life to your mortal bodies through His Spirit, Who lives in you...  (Romans, 8:11)

As it is written: "I have made you [Abraham] a father of many nations." He is our father in the Sight of God, in Whom he [Abraham] believed—the God Who gives life to the dead and calls things that are not as though they were.  (Romans, 4:17)

The God Who made the world and everything in it is the Lord of heaven and earth... He himself gives all men life and breath and everything else.  (Acts, 17:24-25)

For just as the Lord raises the dead...  (John, 5:21)

That God is the Provider

... It is not Moses who has given you the bread from heaven, but it is my Lord Who gives you the true bread from heaven.  (John, 6:32)

Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more important than food, and the body more important than clothes? Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet God feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they?  (Matthew, 6:25-26)

... He has shown kindness by giving you rain from heaven and crops in their seasons; He provides you with plenty of food and fills your hearts with joy.  (Acts, 14:17)

His mercy extends to those who fear Him, from generation to generation... He has filled the hungry with good things but has sent the rich away empty.  (Luke, 1:50-53)

Then Jesus said to his disciples: "Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat; or about your body, what you will wear... Consider the ravens: They do not sow or reap, they have no storeroom or barn; yet God feeds them. And how much more valuable you are than birds! (Luke, 12:22-24)

That God is All-Loving, Endower and Compassionate

His mercy extends to those who fear Him, from generation to generation.  (Luke, 1:50)

... The Lord is full of compassion and mercy.  (James, 5:11)

Because of the tender mercy of our God, by which the rising sun will come to us from heaven to shine on those living in darkness and in the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the path of peace.  (Luke, 1:78-79)

But because of His great love for us, God, Who is rich in mercy, made us alive—it is by grace you have been saved.  (Ephesians, 2:4-5)

As you know, we consider blessed those who have persevered. You have heard of Job's perseverance and have seen what the Lord finally brought about. The Lord is full of compassion and mercy.  (James, 5:11)

... With the riches of God's grace that He lavished on us with all wisdom and understanding.  (Ephesians, 1:7-8)

And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose.  (Romans, 8:28)

But when the kindness and love of God our Savior appeared, He saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of His mercy...  (Titus, 3: 4-6)

And in their prayers for you their hearts will go out to you, because of the surpassing grace God has given you. Thanks be to God for His indescribable gift!  (2 Corinthians, 9:14-15)

For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast. For we are God's masterpiece, created... to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.  (Ephesians, 2:8-10)

Or do you show contempt for the riches of His [God's] kindness, understanding and patience, [surely God is beyond that] not realizing that God's kindnessleads you toward repentance?  (Romans, 2:4)

No temptation has seized you except what is common to man. And God is faithful; He will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, He will also provide a way out so that you can stand up under it.  (1 Corinthians, 10:13)

Dear friends, since God so loved us, we also ought to love one another.  (1 John, 4:11)

Don't be deceived, my dear brothers... Every good and perfect gift comes from God.  (James, 1:16-17)

Young men, in the same way be submissive to those who are older. All of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, because, "God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble."  (1 Peter, 5:5)

... God of all grace, Who called you to His eternal glory after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast. To Him be the power for ever and ever.  (1 Peter, 5:10-11)

May God Himself, the God of peace, sanctify you through and through. May your whole spirit, soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of... Jesus Christ.  (1 Thessalonians, 5:23)

Now may the Lord of peace Himself give you peace at all times and in every way. The Lord be with all of you.  (2 Thessalonians, 3:16)

That God Watches Over and Protects His Servants

But the Lord is faithful, and He will strengthen and protect you from the evil one.  (2 Thessalonians, 3: 3)

Do not be like them, for God knows what you need before you ask Him.  (Matthew, 6:8)

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)

... Who through faith are shielded by God's power until the coming of the salvation that is ready to be revealed in the last time.  (1 Peter, 1:5)

If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, will He not much more clothe you, o you of little faith?  (Matthew, 6:30)

Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet God feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they?  (Matthew, 6:26)

So do not worry, saying, 'What shall we eat?' or 'What shall we drink?' or 'What shall we wear?' For the pagans run after all these things, and God knows that you need them.  (Matthew, 6:31-32)

He committed no sin, and no deceit was found in his mouth. "When they hurled their insults at him, he did not retaliate; when he suffered, he made no threats. Instead, he entrusted himself to Him [God] Who judges justly.  (1 Peter, 2:22-23)

That God Leads to the True Path and Cleanses Spiritual Pollution

... And are justified freely by His grace through the redemption that came by God.  (Romans, 3:24)

... For He purified their hearts by faith.  (Acts, 15:9)

For in the Gospel a righteousness from God is revealed, a righteousness that is by faith from first to last, just as it is written: "The righteous will live by faith."  (Romans, 1:17)

Who will bring any charge against those whom God has chosen? It is God Who justifies.  (Romans, 8:33)

So that, having been justified by His grace, we might become heirs having the hope of eternal life.  (Titus, 3:7)

To Him Who is able to keep you from falling and to present you before His glorious Presence without fault and with great joy...  (Jude, 1:24)

... Salvation and glory and power belong to our God, for true and just are His judgments...  For our Lord God Almighty reigns.  (Revelation, 19:1-6)

He chose to give us birth through the word of truth...  (James, 1:18)

... But you are a chosen people... that you may declare the praises of Him Who called you out of darkness into His wonderful light... Once you received no mercy; now you have received God's mercy.  (1 Peter, 2:9)

It does not, therefore, depend on man's desire or effort, but on God's mercy... Therefore God has mercy on whom He wants to have mercy, and He hardens whom He wants to harden.  (Romans, 9:16-18)

That God Accepts Repentance and Forgives Sins

... In accordance with the riches of God's grace that He lavished on us with all wisdom and understanding.  (Ephesians, 1:7-8)

When they heard this, they had no further objections and praised God, saying, "So then, God has granted even the Gentiles repentance unto life." (Acts, 11:18)

For He has rescued us from the dominion of darkness... we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins.  (Colossians, 1:13-14)

If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.  (1 John, 1:9)

And the prayer offered in faith will make the sick person well; the Lord will raise him up. If he has sinned, he will be forgiven.  (James, 5:15)

Forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one. For if You forgive men when they sin against You, God will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive men their sins, your Lord will not forgive your sins.  (Matthew, 6:12-15)

He [Jesus] said to them, "When you pray, say: "God, hallowed be Your name... Forgive us our sins, for we also forgive everyone who sins against us. And lead us not into temptation."  (Luke, 11:2-4)

"Do not judge, and you will not be judged. Do not condemn, and you will not be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven. Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you."  (Luke, 6:37-38)

Repent, then, and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped out, that times of refreshing may come from the Lord...  (Acts, 3:19-20)

Repent of this wickedness and pray to the Lord. Perhaps He will forgive you for having such a thought in your heart.  (Acts, 8:22)

That God is the Best of Judges and the Infinitely Just

Anyone who does wrong will be repaid for his wrong, and there is no favoritism.  (Colossians, 3:25)

Because you know that the Lord will reward everyone for whatever good he does, whether he is slave or free. And masters, treat your slaves in the same way. Do not threaten them, since you know that He... is both their Master and yours... and there is no favoritism with Him.  (Ephesians, 6:8-9)

There will be trouble and distress for every human being who does evil... but glory, honor and peace for everyone who does good... For God does not show favoritism.  (Romans, 2: 9-11)

Anyone who does wrong will be repaid for his wrong, and there is no favoritism.  (Colossians, 3:25)

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. 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)

His work will be shown for what it is, because the Day will bring it to light.  (1 Corinthians, 3 : 13)

They will have to give account to Him Who is ready to judge the living and the dead.  (1 Peter, 4:5)

Since you call on God Who judges each man's work impartially, live your lives as strangers here in reverent fear.  (1 Peter, 1:17)

God is not unjust [God is surely beyond that]; He will not forget your work and the love you have shown Him as you have helped His people and continue to help them.  (Hebrews, 6:10)

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 [surely God is beyond that].  (2 Peter, 2:9-10)

The depth of the riches of the wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable His judgments, and His paths beyond tracing out!  (Romans, 11: 33)