(Sat) Added SW[4].

SAT (10:17,29,39 am) Hello! Posted SongWeekly, SW[4], a lovely standard.

(Fri) Added (5) EE[2], Really Trusting God and True Freedom within God's Law

FRI (12:48 pm) Hello! Added (5) Eternal Express, EE[2], Really Trusting God and True Freedom within God's Law.

(Sat) Added EE[1], Firstborn Son and Word of God, Also, SW[3], new SongWeekly.

SAT (10:17 am; 7:35,38 pm) Hello! Added EE[1], Firstborn Son and Word of God, based on 1John 4. Also, added SW[3], new SongWeekly.

(Sat) Added (7) SongWeekly, SW[2]

SAT (11:12 am) Added (7) SongWeekly, SW[2]

(Sat) Added (7) SongWeekly, SW[1].

SAT (9:31 am) Hello! Added (7) SongWeekly, SW[1].

FRI (9:08,10,17,23 am; 2:59 pm) Hello! Added (6) MLH[1] Remainder of Ten Commandments--Not Bearing False Testimony Against Fellowman and Avoiding Envy. This is uncharacteristic to have delayed posting this portion relating to a serious trial--I normally would have included these two at least by the end of last month's post, along with the first eight of the Ten Commandments, one week ago. I'm posting both together now in case there might yet be some contribution, as it may yet be possible to enter something further prior to sentencing.

Updated Both Commentaries.

____(5) Eternal Express

ETERNAL EXPRESS

JESUS/JO-SHUA' FIRSTBORN SON AND THE WORD OF GOD, BRINGING LIFE AND FREEDOM FROM SIN

CHRISTIAN SMALL LETTER HIGHLIGHTS

TRUE CHRISTIANS WILL RECOGNIZE JESUS OR JO-SHUA' AS TRULY A FIRSTBORN SON AND WORD OF GOD, WHOM GOD DID CAUSE TO BE BORN HUMAN, AND WHOSE EXAMPLE AND DEATH (IN TWO WAYS, LITERAL AND FIGURATIVE) MAKE POSSIBLE FREEDOM FROM SIN AND A ROYAL AUTHORITY BY GOD'S POWER BRINGING ENDLESS LIFE AND HAPPINESS.

1John 4:1, 4-8 says "Beloved ones, do not believe every inspired statement, but test the inspired statements to see whether they originate with God, for many false prophets have gone out into the world...4 You originate with God, little children, and you have conquered them, because the one who is in union with you is greater than the one who is in union with the world [the system refusing to acknowledge God]. 5 They originate with the world; that is why they speak what originates with the world and the world listens to them. 6 We originate with God. Whoever comes to know God listens to us; whoever does not originate with God does not listen to us. By this we distinguish the inspired statement of truth from the inspired statement of error. 7 Beloved ones, let us continue loving one another, because love is from God, and everyone who loves has been born from God and knows God. 8 Whoever does not love has not come to know God, because God is love."

DISTINGUISHING TRUTH. The apostle John and other fellow Christians anointed for "heavenly" (or God-authorized) rulership originated with God, as did the Scriptural writings of John and the other apostles and Christian writers. (REVel 20:6; 1TImo 2:3-4) May we carefully examine especially Christian writings, as well as the entire word of God, to ascertain the truth of God to which we should cling, distinguishing truth from falsehood, discerning right from wrong by the teachings of Jesus or Jo-Shua' (correct name in English for God's Son, retaining the real meaning, "Salvation Belongs to Jehovoe (God)") and others in God's word. Many false ideas have proliferated, causing confusion and division among those who would be Christians today. But it is God's will that those who would be true Christians become united in our teachings and our beliefs, just as were the first-century early Christians. As Paul wrote to the Corinthians, at 1Corinithians 1:10, "Now I urge you, brothers, through the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that you should all speak in agreement and that there should be no divisions among you, but that you may be completely united in the same mind and in the same line of thought." The truth, in harmony with the love of God, can be found in the word of God. Let's continue to look there for spiritual nourishment!

TRUTH ABOUT THE FIRSTBORN SON OF GOD. 1John 4:2-3,9-12 On coming to realize God's expression of love for the human family, we should know the truth about Jesus or Jo-shua', as truly having been the "Son of God." John provides the touchstone to know a true inspired statement from a false one--largely based on whether it acknowledges him as being a genuine son of God (His firstborn, made directly by God--COLos 1:15-18; REVel 1:4-5), who truly became a human, while God above in the heavens watched over his earthly life course, even resurrecting him after his death. Colossians 1:15-16 reads: "He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all creation; 16 because by means of him all other things were created in the heavens and on the earth, the things visible and the things invisible, whether they are thrones or lordships or governments or authorities. All other things have been created through him and for him." While the historical Jesus is indeed godlike, and has become AzGod, much confusion over the idea of Jesus actually being God is over the wrongful use of the term "Lord" or "LORD" in place of God's personal name "Jehovoe." Many have learned that Jesus is Lord, and from a young age they may have heard God being called "Lord" as well. 1Corinthians 8:5-6 clarifies: "For even though there are so-called gods, whether in heaven or on earth, just as there are many “gods” and many “lords,”6 there is actually to us one God, the Father, from whom all things are and we for him; and there is one Lord, Jesus Christ, through whom all things are and we through him." Unfortunately, to always replace the personal name of God with a title was based on both superstition and disagreement on the right name to use, having great meaning, which has undermined closeness to our loving God and Father, Jehovoe. How would you feel if no one ever called you by your first name, but always said "Man", or "Woman", "Boy", or "Girl" instead? The use of your personal name brings to mind your personality, specific details of the kind of person you are! So it is with Jehovoe! What marvelous qualities He has, and loyal deeds He has performed toward those close to Him, knowing His name! How fine if some of our most loved translations of the Bible one day correct this mistake, and actually put the name of "Jehovoe" where it rightly belongs in God's word! The same may be said regarding the mistranslation of the name of God's Son. Matthew's gospel in Greek originally did not use the Greek form of "Jesus," but rather the name in Hebrew, like Yehoshua', which has been translated correctly in English as Jo-shua', pronounced with two syllables, with accent on the last one. It may also be translated as Jehoshua' (three syllables). (For more information regarding nominal Bible translation work, see the article "Bible Translation Work" elsewhere on this website.)

RESULTING PEACE AND LOVE. John's words here help to clarify the difference between God's Son and Jehovoe God. He clearly states that no man had seen God--it was truly His son who came "in the flesh," born as a human, and setting an example for humans as obedient servants of God. There was no hidden secret to be found in God's word to cause us to believe otherwise! Notice John's words: "2 This is how you know that the inspired statement is from God: Every inspired statement that acknowledges Jesus Christ as having come in the flesh originates with God. 3 But every inspired statement that does not acknowledge Jesus does not originate with God. Furthermore, this is the antichrist’s inspired statement that you have heard was coming, and now it is already in the world...9 By this the love of God was revealed in our case, that God sent his only-begotten Son into the world so that we might gain life through him. 10 The love is in this respect, not that we have loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as a propitiatory sacrifice for our sins. 11 Beloved ones, if this is how God loved us, then we are also under obligation to love one another. 12 No one has seen God at any time. If we continue loving one another, God remains in us and his love is made perfect in us." Thus, as many acknowledge God's expression of love and mercy to each in sending His son who did die, providing the ransom sacrifice to cover sins, making true love capable of becoming "perfect," or complete in the hearts of mankind, may all be moved to love God in return, and love one another, seeking peace with one another, spurning, or rejecting, hatred and anger toward others, aiming to be quick to settle disagreements and restore peace. A new world of peace and righteousness awaits all who are willing to live in such a way, and call upon the name of our loving Father, God, through His firstborn and beloved Son, Jesus/Jo-shua'!

REALLY TRUSTING GOD AND TRUE FREEDOM WITHIN GOD'S LAW.

James 2 shows we need to trust in God, with faith and love finding complete obedience, not picking and choosing which laws of God we should keep. Still, upon realizing this, God's mercy may be needed and may be provided for truly repentant ones. Notice verses 10-13: "10 For if anyone obeys all the Law but makes a false step in one point, he has become an offender against all of it. 11 For the one who said, “You must not commit adultery,” also said, “You must not murder.” If, now, you do not commit adultery but you do murder, you have become a transgressor of law. 12 Keep on speaking and behaving in such a way as those do who are going to be judged by the law of a free people. 13 For the one who does not practice mercy will have his judgement without mercy. Mercy triumphs over judgement." Notice that it is WITHIN God's law that we find genuine freedom--freedom that make true happiness possible with many blessings of peace and prosperity under the rule of God's Kingdom!

____(6) Mosaic Law Highlights

TEN COMMANDMENTS

Let’s now consider Exodus 20:16: “16 “You must not testify falsely when you are a witness against your fellow man.”

TAKEN SERIOUSLY. Should this command be taken lightly? It comes just after the command not the steal. Would someone think it’s okay to rob a bank? Clearly, then, this matter should be taken seriously—we should not bear false testimony, whether or not the one we are testifying against is truly guilty or innocent. We must remember that this is the living word of God we are talking about. He takes this matter seriously Himself, and can back it up! If our testimony helps bring justice to one committing a serious crime, depending on the situation where we live, we may seek God's help in prayer and speak with authorities about how best to protect ourselves from any unusual spite or threat. Of course, the wrongdoer should mean no further harm, rather aiming to get his/her life back on track. Some areas worldwide do differ, however. In considering the matter, we should certainly go to Jehovoe in prayer for His guidance and protection. As Jesus at times said: “Your faith has saved you; go in peace.” (Luke 7:50). In certain lands or areas, some may genuinely fear for their lives to oppose a powerful authority that refuses to uphold justice. Pray to God for the right words in such as case, as God's word wisely reveals "A live dog is better off than a dead lion." (Eccle 9:4). If there is enough of a presence of true justice, then we should genuinely trust in God, praying fervently about the matter, often and sincerely, considering any steps we might take or help we might receive to protect ourselves, and leave the outcome in God's hands. (Matth 7:7-11). Notice, for instance, Psalm 46:1 says “46 God is our refuge and strength, A help that is readily found in times of distress. 2 That is why we will not fear, though the earth undergoes change, Though the mountains topple into the depths of the sea, 3 Though its waters roar and foam over, Though the mountains rock on account of its turbulence.” Ultimately, the consequences of such decisions do rest with each individual, and we must each answer to God for what we do, but as we hold to God's laws, we are preparing our hearts for life in His new world of righteousness, becoming free of the evil which became so prevalent at times, in various places, in this world. Since God does not desire anyone to be eliminated from life, we may expect many crooked ones to genuinely gain trust in our merciful God and receive His mighty spirit to understand real change and it's benefits, letting their former wayward life pass away, gaining renewed life grateful for God's law and the true peace it makes possible. Psalm 37:1-6,10-11 says: "Do not be upset because of evil men Or envious of wrongdoers. 2 They will quickly wither like grass And shrivel like green new grass. Trust in Jehovoe and do what is good; Reside in the earth, and act with faithfulness. 4 Find exquisite delight in Jehovoe, And he will grant you the desires of your heart. 5 Commit your way to Jehovoe; Rely on him, and he will act in your behalf. 6 He will make your righteousness shine like daybreak, And your justice like the midday sun...10 Just a little while longer, and the crooked will be no more; You will look at where they were, And they will not be there. 11 But the meek will possess the earth, And they will find exquisite delight in the abundance of peace." Notice also Proverbs 18:10, saying: “10 The name of Jehovoe is a strong tower. Into it the righteous one runs and receives protection.” Therefore, to receive of God's powerful assistance, we should prefer either sincerely an endearing term such as "Father" or God's personal name JEHOVOE in our prayers to Him (Matth 6:9).

RECEIVING GOD'S HELP. But it should be acknowledged, that while Jehovoe’s name is so powerful, it is still more than just a superstitious good-luck charm. If we want to look to Jehovoe for protection, we should also accept His advice and guidance. We should recognize that His ways are the ways of eternal happiness—ours and everyone else’s. Notice it is “the righteous one” that runs into the “strong tower” of Jehovoe’s name and “receives protection.” Would not one standing up for truth and the side of what is right by refusing to lie under oath, or to bear false testimony, have Jehovoe’s smile of approval? Still, why not REASONABLY continue to seek to live by God’s other standards, looking to the ransom sacrifice of Jesus Christ to cover past sins in God’s abundant mercy, seeking God’s forgiveness and turning from any evil course of serious sin? What blessings are in store for those choosing God’s way of life! Also, the true Christian understanding of God's law contains answers and ways of life that in times past weren't clearly understood and caused much confusion and even disillusionment. May the genuine truth become clearly understood, that all may come to find the happiness God has purposed humanity to have!

TREASURING GOD'S WORD. God’s word records such sentiments as in Proverbs 2:20-22: “20 So follow the way of good people And stay on the paths of the honest, 21 For only the upright will reside in the earth, And the blameless will remain in it. 22 As for the crooked, they will be cut off from the earth, And the treacherous will be torn away from it.” What will help us heed such counsel? Jesus stated at Matthew 4:4 “It is written: ‘Man must live, not on bread alone, but on every word that comes from Jehovoe’s mouth.’” Psalm 1:1-3 likewise encourages us: “1 Happy is the man who does not walk according to the advice of the crooked And does not stand on the path of sinners And does not sit in the seat of scoffers. 2 But his delight is in the law of Jehovoe, And he ponders His law day and night. 3 He will be like a tree planted by streams of water, A tree that produces fruit in its season, The foliage of which does not wither. And everything he does will succeed.” May we find happiness and success by loving God’s word of truth, and letting it’s words prove effective as we ponder them, considering their application to our activities throughout each day—a course leading to everlasting life!

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TEN COMMANDMENTS

Let’s now consider Exodus 20:17: “17 You must not desire your fellow man’s house. You must not desire your fellow man’s wife nor his slave man nor his slave girl nor his bull nor his donkey nor anything that belongs to your fellow man.”

FINDING TRUE PEACE, UNSELFISH LOVE. As we’ve been considering, can we really say that any of the Ten Commandments are not important, nor of value to mankind? Can we not see how even the Tenth one can significantly help the development of true peace, unselfish love, and happiness between humans? Also the complete Mosaic Law, Jesus kept perfectly, promoted such things among Israel. We should be able to make connections to Jesus’ own words and commands to his followers, which are binding upon all who would be true Christians today. Let’s back up, though, and take this one commandment step by step:

CHART OWN PROGRESS, AVOIDING ENVY. “You must not desire your fellow man’s house.” This reference to a man’s “house” was likely all-encompassing, including, not only the literal building materials, but the man’s “home” with his accumulated possessions, spouse, children, animals, land, etc. We should not be jealous of the man, or envious of what he may have worked hard to obtain, gather, and accumulate over many years of effort, using God-given gifts and acquired wisdom, skills, and training to do so. Every man should have enough unselfish love and compassion so as to be happy for what others have, while seeking God’s blessing on one’s own efforts to establish a home for himself. God’s word encourages this, while discouraging comparisons with others and their accomplishments. For instance, Romans 12:15 says “15 Rejoice with those who rejoice; weep with those who weep.” We should, with empathy, be genuinely happy for those who have found a measure of happiness themselves, although God’s Kingdom will surely bring this in much fuller measure for all obedient mankind. Also, regarding unhealthy comparisons, notice the words of Galatians 6:4: “4 But let each one examine his own actions, and then he will have cause for rejoicing in regard to himself alone, and not in comparison with the other person.” We each have opportunity to be happy with our own individual progress in life, whether in our own personal activities, or in business pursuits, or in other areas. We should perhaps chart our own progress, comparing what we’re doing now with what we did last week, last month, or last year at this same time. Then we can appreciate our own progress and development, and be happy with this. Notice these words in the Amplified Version: “4 But let every person carefully scrutinize and examine and test his own conduct and his own work. He can then have the personal satisfaction and joy of doing something commendable [in itself alone] without [resorting to] boastful comparison with his neighbor.” Such a view discourages unhealthy comparisons with others as well as insidious jealousy, which God’s word outright condemns.

AVOIDING JEALOUSY. For instance, Proverbs 14:30 says “30 A calm heart gives life to the body, But jealousy is rottenness to the bones.” Or, as the saying goes, “rotten to the core.” Clearly, jealousy can permeate the entire body of a person, ruining their spirituality and any associated happiness. James adds this, in James 3:15,16: “15 This is not the wisdom that comes down from above; it is earthly, animalistic, demonic. 16 For wherever there are jealousy and contentiousness, there will also be disorder and every vile (or worthless) thing.” Do we need “every [worthless] thing” in our life? May we utterly reject jealousy and even “contentiousness,” or the tendency to want to fight others, to claim superiority over them. Would we not rather be humble, reliant upon God for our success, and gain and maintain true unselfish love in our life and dealings with others? This is the course of eternal life.

NOR HIS WIFE. Therefore, may we not desire what rightfully belongs to our fellowman, including his “wife.” How near and dear to a man’s heart is his rightful spouse. God himself brought the first man and woman together. Jesus quoted this from Genesis, when asked about divorce, saying, at Matthew 19:5,6: “5...‘For this reason a man will leave his father and his mother and will stick to his wife, and the two will be one flesh’? 6 So that they are no longer two, but one flesh. Therefore, what God has yoked together, let no man put apart.” God is the Originator of the marriage and family arrangement, which has had His blessing for millenniums. Yes, while there is provision for divorce in cases of serious “fornication” against one’s mate, normally who should dare to rip apart a person’s body in half, by trying to steal the heart of his or her spouse, the two becoming “one flesh?” In most cases, this would not be God’s doing, and therefore should be universally recognized as a violation of what is holy before God! Where this may have occurred in the past, let's look to God. It may be with God's blessing that recent wrongs can still be righted. Couples should help one another keep God first in their hearts, that serious sin may not be committed or continue. In God's eyes, "Mercy exults triumphantly over judgment." When matters have been honestly considered and understood by those involved, God does not wish us to linger on the past unnecessarily. All should be at peace, and be able to move ahead with God's blessing, and a partner to look ahead with into God's peaceful new world.

RIGHT DESIRES, LOOKING TO GOD. Neither should we desire the “slave” or workers of a man, perhaps in his business, nor his animals, or any other provision that serves to feed his family. Nor should we desire “anything that belongs to your fellowman.” Clearly this commandment gets to the root cause of the harmful thinking patterns of envy and jealousy, as well as practices such as stealing. If we all merely look to God to satisfy our right desires, we may avoid much sin and have better dealings with one another. James 1:14-15 says “14 But each one is tried by being drawn out and enticed by his own desire. 15 Then the desire, when it has become fertile, gives birth to sin; in turn sin, when it has been carried out, brings forth death.” May we regularly analyze ourselves, including our desires, to ensure they are in harmony with God’s delightful will for mankind. May we be appreciative of the fine gifts God has given us in life, and be happy with what others have been given as well, compassionately rejoicing with them. Thus, may we come to see the benefits of considering God’s laws to a literal and spiritual Israel, sincere Christians today, finding parallels in the way we are to treat one another in harmony with true love, justice, and peace.

____(7) SongWeekly