The BIBLETEXTS Online Bible Commentary
Excerpts that are relevant to the Bible Lesson for Sunday, April 25, 1999
plus other biblical resources to enrich the study of the current Bible Lesson
Bible Lesson Study Aid | This week's at http://www.bibletexts.com/bt-tw-ps.htm: This particular webpage was first posted Saturday, 4/17/99, at 9 am (USA Eastern time). | Next week's at http://www.bibletexts.com/bt-nw-ps.htm: This study aid is usually available by early Sunday morning, 7 days before the Sunday by which the corresponding Bible Lesson is dated, and it usually becomes "This week's" Bible Lesson study aid at around mindight on that same Sunday.
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Acknowledgements of the Bible versions and footnotes regularly used on this Webpage:
KJV w/Strong# (From the ABS Reference Bible CDROM, published by the American Bible Society. Used by permission.) Verse numbers are enclosed in { }. Strong's numbers are enclosed in < > and identify the Hebrew or Greek words from which the KJV words were translated. For a list of study aids that are keyed to Strong's number system, browse http://www.bibletexts.com/strongs.htm.
Note: Strong's numbers in the KJV text do not necessarily represent the Hebrew and Greek words that were in the original texts, only those texts from which the KJV was translated. Some of the KJV -- and NKJV -- texts significantly differ from reliable modern versions, which are translated from today's more correct approximation of "the original texts." {See S&H 24:4.} For more details, browse: "Why the King James Version differs with modern versions" at http://www.bibletexts.com/kjv-tr.htm.
NRSV (New Revised Standard Version, Copyright, 1989, by the Division of Christian Education of the National Council of Churches of Christ in the USA. Used by permission. All rights reserved.) For a review of the NRSV, browse http://www.bibletexts.com/bibles.htm.
TEV (Today's English Version, Copyright 1976, 1992, American Bible Society, also known as the Good News Bible. Used by permission. All rights reserved.) The full paragraph is included on this webpage to help you read the Bible Lesson texts in the original author's intended context. For a review of the TEV, browse http://www.bibletexts.com/bibles.htm.
Footnotes: cross-references and textual and exegetical commentary. Cross-references are mostly the result of original research done by Robert Nguyen Cramer [RNC], but a few came either from American Bible Society resources or from The Treasury of Scripture Knowledge, by R.A. Torrey. All commentary was done by RNC, unless otherwise noted. Some additional resources used in the preparation of this Webpage are described in the bibliography at http://www.bibletexts.com/bibliogr.htm.
Which English Bible version is the best?
Of the English language Bible versions primarily used by the BibleTexts.com website, the NRSV gives the best word-for-word representation of the wording of original texts, and the TEV gives the best phrase-by-phrase representation of the originally intended meaning of original texts. Both the NRSV and the TEV are based upon the same highly reliable, definitive Hebrew and Greek biblical texts that are edited and published by the United Bible Societies.
Wherever there are substantial differences between the KJV and the NRSV, the NRSV should be considered as more accurately representing the original texts, because the NRSV is translated from much more accurate Hebrew and Greek texts, and the NRSV translation team was very careful to ensure that the NRSV would be theologically objective. In the KJV most of the substantive errors are due to the faulty Hebrew and Greek texts from which the KJV was translated. (See S&H 139:15.) You can explore verse-by-verse explanations of most of those Hebrew and Greek text-based errors by browsing the BibleTexts Online Bible Commentary at http://www.bibletexts.com/bt.htm. You can easily browse the BibleTexts' textual commentaries on each book of the Bible by clicking on the bulleted footnotes immediately below the TEV translation.
You can also find verse-by-verse explanations of many of the text-based errors in the following two books: Textual Criticism of the Hebrew Bible, by Emanuel Tov (Minneapolis, MN: Augsburg Fortress Press, 1992) and A Textual Commentary on the Greek New Testament, Second Edition, by Bruce M. Metzger (New York: United Bible Societies, 1994). Many other English Bible translations are listed and recommended in the BibleTexts' bibliography at http://www.bibletexts.com/bibliogr/01bib-e.htm, which also notes the English language Bibles owned and used by Mary Baker Eddy. For a review of the several Bibles in English and Spanish, http://www.bibletexts.com/bibles.htm.
KJV w/Strong# - {7} He that hath <2192> an ear <3775>, let him hear <191> what <5101> the Spirit <4151> saith <3004> unto the churches <1577>; To him that overcometh <3528> will I give <1325> to eat <5315> of the tree <3586> of life <2222>, which <3739> is in the midst <3319> of the paradise <3857> of God <2316>.
NRSV - 7 Let anyone who has an ear listen to what the Spirit is saying to the churches. To everyone who conquers, I will give permission to eat from the tree of life that is in the paradise of God.
TEV - "The Message to Ephesus" - 7 "If you have ears, then, listen to what the Spirit says to the churches! "To those who win the victory I will give the right to eat the fruit of the tree of life that grows in the Garden of God.
KJV w/Strong# - {1} Judge <08199> me, O LORD <03068>; for I have walked <01980> in mine integrity <08537>: I have trusted <0982> also in the LORD <03068>; [therefore] I shall not slide <04571>. {2} Examine <0974> me, O LORD <03068>, and prove <05254> me; try <06884> my reins <03629> and my heart <03820>. {3} For thy lovingkindness <02617> [is] before <05048> mine eyes <05869>: and I have walked <01980> in thy truth <0571>.
{6} I will wash <07364> mine hands <03709> in innocency <05356>: so will I compass <05437> thine altar <04196>, O LORD <03068>: {7} That I may publish <08085> with the voice <06963> of thanksgiving <03034>, and tell <05608> of all <03605> thy wondrous <06381> works.
NRSV - 1 Vindicate me, O LORD, for I have walked in my integrity, and I have trusted in the LORD without wavering. 2 Prove me, O LORD, and try me; test my heart and mind. 3 For your steadfast love is before my eyes, and I walk in faithfulness to you.
6 I wash my hands in innocence, and go around your altar, O LORD, 7 singing aloud a song of thanksgiving, and telling all your wondrous deeds.
TEV - "The Prayer of a Good Man" - 1 Declare me innocent, O LORD, because I do what is right and trust you completely. 2 Examine me and test me, LORD; judge my desires and thoughts. 3 Your constant love is my guide; your faithfulness always leads me. 4 I do not keep company with worthless people; I have nothing to do with hypocrites. 5 I hate the company of evil men and avoid the wicked. 6 LORD, I wash my hands to show that I am innocent and march in worship around your altar. 7 I sing a hymn of thanksgiving and tell of all your wonderful deeds. 8 I love the house where you live, O LORD, the place where your glory dwells. 9 Do not destroy me with the sinners; spare me from the fate of murderers -- 10 men who do evil all the time and are always ready to take bribes.
KJV w/Strong# - {2} The LORD <03068> [is] my rock <05553>, and my fortress <04686>, and my deliverer <06403>; my God <0410>, my strength <06697>, in whom I will trust <02620>; my buckler <04043>, and the horn <07161> of my salvation <03468>, [and] my high <04869> tower <04869>.
{5} The sorrows <02256> of hell <07585> compassed <05437> me about: the snares <04170> of death <04194> prevented <06923> me. {6} In my distress <06862> I called <07121> upon the LORD <03068>, and cried <07768> unto my God <0430>: he heard <08085> my voice <06963> out of his temple <01964>, and my cry <07775> came <0935> before <06440> him, [even] into his ears <0241>.
{19} He brought <03318> me forth <03318> also into a large <04800> place <04800>; he delivered <02502> me, because <03588> he delighted <02654> in me.
{46} The LORD <03068> liveth <02416>; and blessed <01288> [be] my rock <06697>; and let the God <0430> of my salvation <03468> be exalted <07311>.
NRSV - 2 The LORD is my rock, my fortress, and my deliverer, my God, my rock in whom I take refuge, my shield, and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold.
5 the cords of Sheol entangled me; the snares of death confronted me. 6 In my distress I called upon the LORD; to my God I cried for help. From his temple he heard my voice, and my cry to him reached his ears.
19 He brought me out into a broad place; he delivered me, because he delighted in me.
46 The LORD lives! Blessed be my rock, and exalted be the God of my salvation,
TEV - "David's Song of Victory" - 1 How I love you, LORD! You are my defender. 2 The LORD is my protector; he is my strong fortress. My God is my protection, and with him I am safe. He protects me like a shield; he defends me and keeps me safe. 3 I call to the LORD, and he saves me from my enemies. Praise the LORD! 4 The danger of death was all around me; the waves of destruction rolled over me. 5 The danger of death was around me, and the grave set its trap for me. 6 In my trouble I called to the LORD; I called to my God for help. In his temple he heard my voice; he listened to my cry for help.
16 The LORD reached down from above and took hold of me; he pulled me out of the deep waters. 17 He rescued me from my powerful enemies and from all those who hate me-- they were too strong for me. 18 When I was in trouble, they attacked me, but the LORD protected me. 19 He helped me out of danger; he saved me because he was pleased with me.
46 The LORD lives! Praise my defender! Proclaim the greatness of the God who saves me. 47 He gives me victory over my enemies; he subdues the nations under me 48 and saves me from my foes. O LORD, you give me victory over my enemies and protect me from violent men. 49 And so I praise you among the nations; I sing praises to you. 50 God gives great victories to his king; he shows constant love to the one he has chosen, to David and his descendants forever.
<B1> Psalm 25
KJV w/Strong# - {4} Shew <03045> me thy ways <01870>, O LORD <03068>; teach <03925> me thy paths <0734>. {5} Lead <01869> me in thy truth <0571>, and teach <03925> me: for thou [art] the God <0430> of my salvation <03468>; on thee do I wait <06960> all <03605> the day <03117>.
{8} Good <02896> and upright <03477> [is] the LORD <03068>: therefore will he teach <03384> sinners <02400> in the way <01870>.
NRSV - 4 Make me to know your ways, O LORD; teach me your paths. 5 Lead me in your truth, and teach me, for you are the God of my salvation; for you I wait all day long.
8 Good and upright is the LORD; therefore he instructs sinners in the way.
TEV - "A Prayer for Guidance and Protection" - 4 Teach me your ways, O LORD; make them known to me. 5 Teach me to live according to your truth, for you are my God, who saves me. I always trust in you. 6 Remember, O LORD, your kindness and constant love which you have shown from long ago. 7 Forgive the sins and errors of my youth. In your constant love and goodness, remember me, LORD! 8 Because the LORD is righteous and good, he teaches sinners the path they should follow. 9 He leads the humble in the right way and teaches them his will. 10 With faithfulness and love he leads all who keep his covenant and obey his commands. 11 Keep your promise, LORD, and forgive my sins, for they are many. 12 Those who have reverence for the LORD will learn from him the path they should follow. 13 They will always be prosperous, and their children will possess the land. 14 The LORD is the friend of those who obey him and he affirms his covenant with them.
KJV w/Strong# - {89} For ever <05769>, O LORD <03068>, thy word <01697> is settled <05324> in heaven <08064>.
{93} I will never forget <07911> thy precepts <06490>: for with them thou hast quickened <02421> me.
{133} Order <03559> my steps <06471> in thy word <0565>: and let not any <03605> iniquity <0205> have dominion <07980> over me.
{144} The righteousness <06664> of thy testimonies <05715> [is] everlasting <05769>: give me understanding <0995>, and I shall live <02421>.
NRSV - 89 The LORD exists forever; your word is firmly fixed in heaven.
93 I will never forget your precepts, for by them you have given me life.
133 Keep my steps steady according to your promise, and never let iniquity have dominion over me.
144 Your decrees are righteous forever; give me understanding that I may live.
TEV - "Faith in the Law of the LORD" - 89 Your word, O LORD, will last forever; it is eternal in heaven. 90 Your faithfulness endures through all the ages; you have set the earth in place, and it remains. 91 All things remain to this day because of your command, because they are all your servants. 92 If your law had not been the source of my joy, I would have died from my sufferings. 93 I will never neglect your instructions, because by them you have kept me alive. 94 I am yours -- save me! I have tried to obey your commands. 95 Wicked men are waiting to kill me, but I will meditate on your laws.
"Desire to Obey the Law of the LORD" - 129 Your teachings are wonderful; I obey them with all my heart. 130 The explanation of your teachings gives light and brings wisdom to the ignorant. 131 In my desire for your commands I pant with open mouth. 132 Turn to me and have mercy on me as you do on all those who love you. 133 As you have promised, keep me from falling; don't let me be overcome by evil. 134 Save me from those who oppress me, so that I may obey your commands. 135 Bless me with your presence and teach me your laws. 136 My tears pour down like a river, because people do not obey your law.
"The Justice of the Law of the LORD" - 144 Your instructions are always just; give me understanding, and I shall live.
KJV w/Strong# - {20} [He that is] our God <0410> [is] the God <0410> of salvation <04190>; and unto GOD <03069> the Lord <0136> [belong] the issues <08444> from death <04194>.
NRSV - 20 Our God is a God of salvation, and to GOD, the Lord, belongs escape from death.
TEV - "A National Song of Triumph" - 19 Praise the Lord, who carries our burdens day after day; he is the God who saves us. 20 Our God is a God who saves; he is the LORD, our Lord, who rescues us from death. 21 God will surely break the heads of his enemies, of those who persist in their sinful ways. 22 The Lord has said, "I will bring your enemies back from Bashan; I will bring them back from the depths of the ocean, 23 so that you may wade in their blood, and your dogs may lap up as much as they want."
KJV w/Strong# - {6} For to be carnally <4561> minded <5427> [is] death <2288>; but to be spiritually <4151> minded <5427> [is] life <2222> and peace <1515>.
{8} So then <1161> they that are in the flesh <4561> cannot <1410> please <700> God <2316>. {9} But ye are not in the flesh <4561>, but in the Spirit <4151>, if <1512> so be that the Spirit <4151> of God <2316> dwell <3611> in you...
{12} Therefore <3767>, brethren <80>, we are debtors <3781>, not to the flesh <4561>, to live <2198> after <2596> the flesh <4561>. {13} For if <1437> ye live <2198> after <2596> the flesh <4561>, ye shall die <599>: but if <1487> ye through the Spirit <4151> do mortify <2289> the deeds <4234> of the body <4983>, ye shall live <2198>. {14} For as many <3745> as are led <71> by the Spirit <4151> of God <2316>, they are the sons <5207> of God <2316>.
NRSV - 6 To set the mind on the flesh is death, but to set the mind on the Spirit is life and peace.
8 and those who are in the flesh cannot please God. 9 But you are not in the flesh; you are in the Spirit, since the Spirit of God dwells in you. Anyone who does not have the Spirit of Christ does not belong to him.
12 So then, brothers and sisters, we are debtors, not to the flesh, to live according to the flesh -- 13 for if you live according to the flesh, you will die; but if by the Spirit you put to death the deeds of the body, you will live. 14 For all who are led by the Spirit of God are children of God.
TEV - "The Conflict in Man" - 5 Those who live as their human nature tells them to, have their minds controlled by what human nature wants. Those who live as the Spirit tells them to, have their minds controlled by what the Spirit wants. 6 To be controlled by human nature results in death; to be controlled by the Spirit results in life and peace. 7 And so a person becomes an enemy of God when he is controlled by his human nature; for he does not obey God's law, and in fact he cannot obey it. 8 Those who obey their human nature cannot please God. 9 But you do not live as your human nature tells you to; instead, you live as the Spirit tells you to -- if, in fact, God's Spirit lives in you. Whoever does not have the Spirit of Christ does not belong to him. 10 But if Christ lives in you, the Spirit is life for you because you have been put right with God, even though your bodies are going to die because of sin. 11 If the Spirit of God, who raised Jesus from death, lives in you, then he who raised Christ from death will also give life to your mortal bodies by the presence of his Spirit in you. 12 So then, my brothers, we have an obligation, but it is not to live as our human nature wants us to. 13 For if you live according to your human nature, you are going to die; but if by the Spirit you put to death your sinful actions, you will live. 14 Those who are led by God's Spirit are God's sons. 15 For the Spirit that God has given you does not make you slaves and cause you to be afraid; instead, the Spirit makes you God's children, and by the Spirit's power we cry out to God, "Father! my Father!" 16 God's Spirit joins himself to our spirits to declare that we are God's children. 17 Since we are his children, we will possess the blessings he keeps for his people, and we will also possess with Christ what God has kept for him; for if we share Christ's suffering, we will also share his glory.
<B5> Proverbs 12
KJV w/Strong# - {28} In the way <0734> of righteousness <06666> [is] life <02416>; and [in] the pathway [thereof there is] no <0408> death <04194>.
NRSV - 28 In the path of righteousness there is life, in walking its path there is no death.
TEV - "Solomon's Proverbs" - 27 If you are lazy, you will never get what you are after, but if you work hard, you will get a fortune. 28 Righteousness is the road to life; wickedness is the road to death.
KJV w/Strong# - {5} By faith <4102> Enoch <1802> was translated <3346> that he should not see <1492> death <2288>; and was not found <2147>, because <1360> God <2316> had translated <3346> him: for before <4253> his translation <3331> he had this testimony <3140>, that he pleased <2100> God <2316>. {6} But without <5565> faith <4102> [it is] impossible <102> to please <2100> [him]: for he that cometh <4334> to God <2316> must <1163> believe <4100> that he is, and [that] he is a rewarder <3406> of them that diligently <1567> seek <1567> him.
NRSV - 5 By faith Enoch was taken so that he did not experience death; and "he was not found, because God had taken him." For it was attested before he was taken away that "he had pleased God." 6 And without faith it is impossible to please God, for whoever would approach him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who seek him.
TEV - "Faith" - 5 It was faith that kept Enoch from dying. Instead, he was taken up to God, and nobody could find him, because God had taken him up. The scripture says that before Enoch was taken up, he had pleased God. 6 No one can please God without faith, for whoever comes to God must have faith that God exists and rewards those who seek him. 7 It was faith that made Noah hear God's warnings about things in the future that he could not see. He obeyed God and built a boat in which he and his family were saved. As a result, the world was condemned, and Noah received from God the righteousness that comes by faith.
KJV w/Strong# - {5} Commit <01556> thy way <01870> unto the LORD <03068>; trust <0982> also in him; and he shall bring <06213> [it] to pass <06213>. {6} And he shall bring <03318> forth <03318> thy righteousness <06664> as the light <0216>, and thy judgment <04941> as the noonday <06672>.
{18} The LORD <03068> knoweth <03045> the days <03117> of the upright <08549>: and their inheritance <05159> shall be for ever <05769>.
{27} Depart <05493> from evil <07451>, and do <06213> good <02896>; and dwell <07931> for evermore <05769>. {28} For the LORD <03068> loveth <0157> judgment <04941>, and forsaketh <05800> not his saints <02623>; they are preserved <08104> for ever <05769>:...
NRSV - 5 Commit your way to the LORD; trust in him, and he will act. 6 He will make your vindication shine like the light, and the justice of your cause like the noonday.
18 The LORD knows the days of the blameless, and their heritage will abide forever;
27 Depart from evil, and do good; so you shall abide forever. 28 For the LORD loves justice; he will not forsake his faithful ones. The righteous shall be kept safe forever, but the children of the wicked shall be cut off.
TEV - "The Destiny of the Wicked and of the Good" - 3 Trust in the LORD and do good; live in the land and be safe. 4 Seek your happiness in the LORD, and he will give you your heart's desire. 5 Give yourself to the LORD; trust in him, and he will help you; 6 he will make your righteousness shine like the noonday sun. 7 Be patient and wait for the LORD to act; don't be worried about those who prosper or those who succeed in their evil plans. 8 Don't give in to worry or anger; it only leads to trouble. 9 Those who trust in the LORD will possess the land, but the wicked will be driven out.
16 The little that a good man owns is worth more than the wealth of all the wicked, 17 because the LORD will take away the strength of the wicked, but protect those who are good. 18 The LORD takes care of those who obey him, and the land will be theirs forever. 19 They will not suffer when times are bad; they will have enough in time of famine. 20 But the wicked will die; the enemies of the LORD will vanish like wild flowers; they will disappear like smoke.
27 Turn away from evil and do good, and your descendants will always live in the land; 28 for the LORD loves what is right and does not abandon his faithful people. He protects them forever, but the descendants of the wicked will be driven out. 29 The righteous will possess the land and live in it forever. 30 A good man's words are wise, and he is always fair. 31 He keeps the law of his God in his heart and never departs from it.
KJV w/Strong# - {3} And they that be wise <07919> shall shine <02094> as the brightness <02096> of the firmament <07549>; and they that turn many <07227> to righteousness <06663> as the stars <03556> for ever <05769> and ever <05703>.
NRSV - 3 Those who are wise shall shine like the brightness of the sky, and those who lead many to righteousness, like the stars forever and ever.
TEV - "The Time of the End" - 1 The angel wearing linen clothes said, "At that time the great angel Michael, who guards your people, will appear. Then there will be a time of troubles, the worst since nations first came into existence. When that time comes, all the people of your nation whose names are written in God's book will be saved. 2 Many of those who have already died will live again: some will enjoy eternal life, and some will suffer eternal disgrace. 3 The wise leaders will shine with all the brightness of the sky. And those who have taught many people to do what is right will shine like the stars forever." 4 He said to me, "And now, Daniel, close the book and put a seal on it until the end of the world. Meanwhile, many people will waste their efforts trying to understand what is happening."
<B9> Psalm 9
KJV w/Strong# - {1} To the chief Musician <05329>, A Psalm <04210> for the sons <01121> of Korah <07141>. Hear <08085> this <02063>, all <03605> [ye] people <05971>; give ear <0238>, all <03605> [ye] inhabitants <03427> of the world <02465>: {2} Both <01571> low <0120> and high <0376>, rich <06223> and poor <034>, together <03162>. {3} My mouth <06310> shall speak <01696> of wisdom <02454>; and the meditation <01900> of my heart <03820> [shall be] of understanding <08394>. {4} I will incline <05186> mine ear <0241> to a parable <04912>:...
NRSV - 1 Hear this, all you peoples; give ear, all inhabitants of the world, 2 both low and high, rich and poor together. 3 My mouth shall speak wisdom; the meditation of my heart shall be understanding. 4 I will incline my ear to a proverb; I will solve my riddle to the music of the harp.
TEV - "The Foolishness of Trusting in Riches" - 1 Hear this, everyone! Listen, all people everywhere, 2 great and small alike, rich and poor together. 3 My thoughts will be clear; I will speak words of wisdom. 4 I will turn my attention to proverbs and explain their meaning as I play the harp.
KJV w/Strong# - {19} There was a certain <5100> rich <4145> man <444>, which <2532> was clothed <1737> in purple <4209> and fine linen <1040>, and fared <2165> sumptuously <2988> every <2596> day <2250>: {20} And there was a certain <5100> beggar <4434> named <3686> Lazarus <2976>, which <3739> was laid <906> at <4314> his gate <4440>, full of sores <1669>, {21} And desiring <1937> to be fed <5526> with the crumbs <5589> which <3588> fell <4098> from the rich <4145> man's table <5132>:...
{22} And it came <1096> to pass, that the beggar <4434> died <599>, and was carried <667> by the angels <32> into <1519> Abraham's <11> bosom <2859>: the rich <4145> man also <2532> died <599>, and was buried <2290>; {23} And in hell <86> he lift <1869> up his eyes <3788>, being <5225> in torments <931>, and seeth <3708> Abraham <11> afar <3113> off <575>, and Lazarus <2976> in his bosom <2859>. {24} And he cried <5455> and said <2036>, Father <3962> Abraham <11>, have mercy <1653> on me, and send <3992> Lazarus <2976>, that he may dip <911> the tip <206> of his finger <1147> in water <5204>, and cool <2711> my tongue <1100>; for I am tormented <3600> in this <5026> flame <5395>. {25} But Abraham <11> said <2036>, Son <5043>, remember <3415> that thou in thy lifetime <2222> receivedst <618> thy good <18> things, and likewise <3668> Lazarus <2976> evil <2556> things: but now <3568> he <3592> is comforted <3870>, and thou art tormented <3600>. {26} And beside <1909> all <3956> this <5125>, between <3342> us and you there is a great <3173> gulf <5490> fixed <4741>: so <3704> that they which would <2309> pass <1224> from hence <1782> to you cannot <1410>; neither <3366> can <1410> they pass <1276> to us, that [would come] from thence <1564>.
NRSV - 19 "There was a rich man who was dressed in purple and fine linen and who feasted sumptuously every day. 20 And at his gate lay a poor man named Lazarus, covered with sores, 21 who longed to satisfy his hunger with what fell from the rich man's table; even the dogs would come and lick his sores.
22 The poor man died and was carried away by the angels to be with Abraham. The rich man also died and was buried. 23 In Hades, where he was being tormented, he looked up and saw Abraham far away with Lazarus by his side. 24 He called out, "Father Abraham, have mercy on me, and send Lazarus to dip the tip of his finger in water and cool my tongue; for I am in agony in these flames.' 25 But Abraham said, "Child, remember that during your lifetime you received your good things, and Lazarus in like manner evil things; but now he is comforted here, and you are in agony. 26 Besides all this, between you and us a great chasm has been fixed, so that those who might want to pass from here to you cannot do so, and no one can cross from there to us.'
TEV - "The Rich Man and Lazarus" - 19 "There was once a rich man who dressed in the most expensive clothes and lived in great luxury every day. 20 There was also a poor man named Lazarus, covered with sores, who used to be brought to the rich man's door, 21 hoping to eat the bits of food that fell from the rich man's table. Even the dogs would come and lick his sores. 22 The poor man died and was carried by the angels to sit beside Abraham at the feast in heaven. The rich man died and was buried, 23 and in Hades, where he was in great pain, he looked up and saw Abraham, far away, with Lazarus at his side. 24 So he called out, "Father Abraham! Take pity on me, and send Lazarus to dip his finger in some water and cool off my tongue, because I am in great pain in this fire!' 25 But Abraham said, "Remember, my son, that in your lifetime you were given all the good things, while Lazarus got all the bad things. But now he is enjoying himself here, while you are in pain. 26 Besides all that, there is a deep pit lying between us, so that those who want to cross over from here to you cannot do so, nor can anyone cross over to us from where you are.' 27 The rich man said, "Then I beg you, father Abraham, send Lazarus to my father's house, 28 where I have five brothers. Let him go and warn them so that they, at least, will not come to this place of pain.'
<B11> James 1
KJV w/Strong# - {12} Blessed <3107> [is] the man <435> that endureth <5278> temptation <3986>: for when he is tried <1384>, he shall receive <2983> the crown <4735> of life <2222>, which <3739> the Lord <2962> hath promised <1861> to them that love <25> him.
NRSV - 12 Blessed is anyone who endures temptation. Such a one has stood the test and will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him.
TEV - "Testing and Tempting" - 12 Happy is the person who remains faithful under trials, because when he succeeds in passing such a test, he will receive as his reward the life which God has promised to those who love him. 13 If a person is tempted by such trials, he must not say, "This temptation comes from God." For God cannot be tempted by evil, and he himself tempts no one. 14 But a person is tempted when he is drawn away and trapped by his own evil desire. 15 Then his evil desire conceives and gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, gives birth to death.
KJV w/Strong# - {1} And Jesus <2424> being full <4134> of the Holy <40> Ghost <4151> returned <5290> from Jordan <2446>, and was led <71> by the Spirit <4151> into <1519> the wilderness <2048>, {2} Being forty <5062> days <2250> tempted <3985> of the devil <1228>. And in those <1565> days <2250> he did eat <5315> nothing <3762>: and when they were ended <4931>, he afterward <5305> hungered <3983>. {3} And the devil <1228> said <2036> unto him, If <1487> thou be the Son <5207> of God <2316>, command <2036> this <5129> stone <3037> that it be made <1096> bread <740>. {4} And Jesus <2424> answered <611> him, saying <3004>, It is written <1125>, That man <444> shall not live <2198> by bread <740> alone <3441>, but by every <3956> word <4487> of God <2316>. {5} And the devil <1228>, taking <321> him up into <1519> an high <5308> mountain <3735>, shewed <1166> unto him all <3956> the kingdoms <932> of the world <3625> in a moment <4743> of time <5550>. {6} And the devil <1228> said <2036> unto him, All <537> this <5026> power <1849> will I give <1325> thee, and the glory <1391> of them: for that is delivered <3860> unto me; and to whomsoever <1437> I will <2309> I give <1325> it. {7} If <1437> thou therefore <3767> wilt worship <4352> me, all <3956> shall be thine <4675>. {8} And Jesus <2424> answered <611> and said <2036> unto him, Get <5217> thee behind <3694> me, Satan <4567>: for it is written <1125>, Thou shalt worship <4352> the Lord <2962> thy God <2316>, and him only <3441> shalt thou serve <3000>. {9} And he brought <71> him to Jerusalem <2419>, and set <2476> him on <1909> a pinnacle <4419> of the temple <2411>, and said <2036> unto him, If <1487> thou be the Son <5207> of God <2316>, cast <906> thyself <4572> down <2736> from hence <1782>: {10} For it is written <1125>, He shall give his angels <32> charge <1781> over <4012> thee, to keep <1314> thee: {11} And in [their] hands <5495> they shall bear <142> thee up, lest <3379> at <3379> any <3379> time <3379> thou dash <4350> thy foot <4228> against <4314> a stone <3037>. {12} And Jesus <2424> answering <611> said <2036> unto him, It is said <2046>, Thou shalt not tempt <1598> the Lord <2962> thy God <2316>. {13} And when the devil <1228> had ended <4931> all <3956> the temptation <3986>, he departed <868> from him for a season <2540>. {14} And Jesus <2424> returned <5290> in the power <1411> of the Spirit <4151> into <1519> Galilee <1056>: and there went <1831> out a fame <5345> of him through <2596> all <3650> the region <4066> round <4066> about <4066>.
{40} Now <1161> when the sun <2246> was setting <1416>, all <3956> they that had <2192> any sick <770> with divers <4164> diseases <3554> brought <71> them unto him; and he laid <2007> his hands <5495> on <2007> every <1538> one <1520> of them, and healed <2323> them. {41} And devils <1140> also <2532> came <1831> out of many <4183>, crying <2896> out, and saying <3004>, Thou art <1488> Christ <5547> the Son <5207> of God <2316>...
NRSV - 1 Jesus, full of the Holy Spirit, returned from the Jordan and was led by the Spirit in the wilderness, 2 where for forty days he was tempted by the devil. He ate nothing at all during those days, and when they were over, he was famished. 3 The devil said to him, "If you are the Son of God, command this stone to become a loaf of bread." 4 Jesus answered him, "It is written, "One does not live by bread alone."' 5 Then the devil led him up and showed him in an instant all the kingdoms of the world. 6 And the devil said to him, "To you I will give their glory and all this authority; for it has been given over to me, and I give it to anyone I please. 7 If you, then, will worship me, it will all be yours." 8 Jesus answered him, "It is written, "Worship the Lord your God, and serve only him."' 9 Then the devil took him to Jerusalem, and placed him on the pinnacle of the temple, saying to him, "If you are the Son of God, throw yourself down from here, 10 for it is written, "He will command his angels concerning you, to protect you,' 11 and "On their hands they will bear you up, so that you will not dash your foot against a stone."' 12 Jesus answered him, "It is said, "Do not put the Lord your God to the test."' 13 When the devil had finished every test, he departed from him until an opportune time. 14 Then Jesus, filled with the power of the Spirit, returned to Galilee, and a report about him spread through all the surrounding country.
40 As the sun was setting, all those who had any who were sick with various kinds of diseases brought them to him; and he laid his hands on each of them and cured them. 41 Demons also came out of many, shouting, "You are the Son of God!" But he rebuked them and would not allow them to speak, because they knew that he was the Messiah.
TEV - "The Temptation of Jesus" - 1 Jesus returned from the Jordan full of the Holy Spirit and was led by the Spirit into the desert, 2 where he was tempted by the Devil for forty days. In all that time he ate nothing, so that he was hungry when it was over. 3 The Devil said to him, "If you are God's Son, order this stone to turn into bread." 4 But Jesus answered, "The scripture says, "Man cannot live on bread alone." 5 Then the Devil took him up and showed him in a second all the kingdoms of the world. 6 "I will give you all this power and all this wealth," the Devil told him. "It has all been handed over to me, and I can give it to anyone I choose. 7 All this will be yours, then, if you worship me." 8 Jesus answered, "The scripture says, "Worship the Lord your God and serve only him!" 9 Then the Devil took him to Jerusalem and set him on the highest point of the Temple, and said to him, "If you are God's Son, throw yourself down from here. 10 For the scripture says, "God will order his angels to take good care of you.' 11 It also says, "They will hold you up with their hands so that not even your feet will be hurt on the stones." 12 But Jesus answered, "The scripture says, "Do not put the Lord your God to the test." 13 When the Devil finished tempting Jesus in every way, he left him for a while. 14 Then Jesus returned to Galilee, and the power of the Holy Spirit was with him. The news about him spread throughout all that territory. 15 He taught in the synagogues and was praised by everyone.
"Jesus Heals Many People" - 38 Jesus left the synagogue and went to Simon's home. Simon's mother-in-law was sick with a high fever, and they spoke to Jesus about her. 39 He went and stood at her bedside and ordered the fever to leave her. The fever left her, and she got up at once and began to wait on them. 40 After sunset all who had friends who were sick with various diseases brought them to Jesus; he placed his hands on every one of them and healed them all. 41 Demons also went out from many people, screaming, "You are the Son of God!" Jesus gave the demons an order and would not let them speak, because they knew he was the Messiah.
<B13> 1 Corinthians15
KJV w/Strong# - {1} ...brethren <80>, I declare <1107> unto you the gospel <2098> which <3739> I preached <2097> unto you, which <3739> also <2532> ye have received <3880>, and wherein <3759> ye stand <2476>;
{3} For I delivered <3860> unto you first <4413> of all that which <3739> I also <2532> received <3880>, how that Christ <5547> died <599> for our sins <266> according <2596> to the scriptures <1124>; {4} And that he was buried <2290>, and that he rose <1453> again <1453> the third <5154> day <2250> according <2596> to the scriptures <1124>: {5} And that he was seen <3700> of Cephas <2786>, then <1534> of the twelve <1427>: {6} After <1899> that, he was seen <3700> of above <1883> five <4001> hundred <4001> brethren <80> at <2178> once <2178>; of whom <3739> the greater <4119> part <4119> remain <3306> unto this present <737>, but some <5100> are fallen <2837> asleep <2837>. {7} After <1899> that, he was seen <3700> of James <2385>; then <1534> of all <3956> the apostles <652>. {8} And last <2078> of all <3956> he was seen <3700> of me also <2504>, as <5619> of one born <1626> out of due time.
{12} Now <1161> if <1487> Christ <5547> be preached <2784> that he rose <1453> from the dead <3498>, how <4459> say <3004> some <5100> among <1722> you that there is no <3756> resurrection <386> of the dead <3498>? {13} But if <1487> there be no <3756> resurrection <386> of the dead <3498>, then <3761> is Christ <5547> not risen <1453>: {14} And if <1487> Christ <5547> be not risen <1453>, then <686> [is] our preaching <2782> vain <2756>, and your <5216> faith <4102> [is] also <2532> vain <2756>.
{20} But now <3570> is Christ <5547> risen <1453> from the dead <3498>, [and] become <1096> the firstfruits <536> of them that slept <2837>.
{55} O death <2288>, where <4226> [is] thy sting <2759>? O grave <86>, where <4226> [is] thy victory <3534>? {56} The sting <2759> of death <2288> [is] sin <266>; and the strength <1411> of sin <266> [is] the law <3551>. {57} But thanks <5485> [be] to God <2316>, which <3588> giveth <1325> us the victory <3534> through <1223> our Lord <2962> Jesus <2424> Christ <5547>.
NRSV - 1 Now I would remind you, brothers and sisters, of the good news that I proclaimed to you, which you in turn received, in which also you stand,
3 For I handed on to you as of first importance what I in turn had received: that Christ died for our sins in accordance with the scriptures, 4 and that he was buried, and that he was raised on the third day in accordance with the scriptures, 5 and that he appeared to Cephas, then to the twelve. 6 Then he appeared to more than five hundred brothers and sisters at one time, most of whom are still alive, though some have died. 7 Then he appeared to James, then to all the apostles. 8 Last of all, as to one untimely born, he appeared also to me.
12 Now if Christ is proclaimed as raised from the dead, how can some of you say there is no resurrection of the dead? 13 If there is no resurrection of the dead, then Christ has not been raised; 14 and if Christ has not been raised, then our proclamation has been in vain and your faith has been in vain.
20 But in fact Christ has been raised from the dead, the first fruits of those who have died.
55 "Where, O death, is your victory? Where, O death, is your sting?" 56 The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law. 57 But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.
TEV - "The Resurrection of Christ" - 1 And now I want to remind you, my brothers, of the Good News which I preached to you, which you received, and on which your faith stands firm. 2 That is the gospel, the message that I preached to you. You are saved by the gospel if you hold firmly to it -- unless it was for nothing that you believed. 3 I passed on to you what I received, which is of the greatest importance: that Christ died for our sins, as written in the Scriptures; 4 that he was buried and that he was raised to life three days later, as written in the Scriptures; 5 that he appeared to Peter and then to all twelve apostles. 6 Then he appeared to more than five hundred of his followers at once, most of whom are still alive, although some have died. 7 Then he appeared to James, and afterward to all the apostles. 8 Last of all he appeared also to me -- even though I am like someone whose birth was abnormal. 9 For I am the least of all the apostles -- I do not even deserve to be called an apostle, because I persecuted God's church. 10 But by God's grace I am what I am, and the grace that he gave me was not without effect. On the contrary, I have worked harder than any of the other apostles, although it was not really my own doing, but God's grace working with me. 11 So then, whether it came from me or from them, this is what we all preach, and this is what you believe.
"Our Resurrection" - 12 Now, since our message is that Christ has been raised from death, how can some of you say that the dead will not be raised to life? 13 If that is true, it means that Christ was not raised; 14 and if Christ has not been raised from death, then we have nothing to preach and you have nothing to believe. 15 More than that, we are shown to be lying about God, because we said that he raised Christ from death -- but if it is true that the dead are not raised to life, then he did not raise Christ. 16 For if the dead are not raised, neither has Christ been raised. 17 And if Christ has not been raised, then your faith is a delusion and you are still lost in your sins. 18 It would also mean that the believers in Christ who have died are lost.
20 But the truth is that Christ has been raised from death, as the guarantee that those who sleep in death will also be raised. 21 For just as death came by means of a man, in the same way the rising from death comes by means of a man. 22 For just as all people die because of their union with Adam, in the same way all will be raised to life because of their union with Christ. 23 But each one will be raised in his proper order: Christ, first of all; then, at the time of his coming, those who belong to him. 24 Then the end will come; Christ will overcome all spiritual rulers, authorities, and powers, and will hand over the Kingdom to God the Father. 25 For Christ must rule until God defeats all enemies and puts them under his feet. 26 The last enemy to be defeated will be death.
"The Resurrection Body" - 55 "Where, Death, is your victory? Where, Death, is your power to hurt?" 56 Death gets its power to hurt from sin, and sin gets its power from the Law. 57 But thanks be to God who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ! 58 So then, my dear brothers, stand firm and steady. Keep busy always in your work for the Lord, since you know that nothing you do in the Lord's service is ever useless.
<B14> Revelation 1
KJV w/Strong# - {1} The Revelation <602> of Jesus <2424> Christ <5547>, which <3739> God <2316> gave <1325> unto him, to shew <1166> unto his servants <1401> things which <3739> must <1163> shortly <5034> come <1096> to pass; and he sent <649> and signified <4591> [it] by his angel <32> unto his servant <1401> John <2491>: {2} Who <3739> bare <3140> record <3140> of the word <3056> of God <2316>, and of the testimony <3141> of Jesus <2424> Christ <5547>, and of all <3745> things that he saw <1492>. {3} Blessed <3107> [is] he that readeth <314>, and they that hear <191> the words <3056> of this <3588> prophecy <4394>, and keep <5083> those <3588> things which are written <1125> therein <846>: for the time <2540> [is] at <1451> hand <1451>.
NRSV - 1 The revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave him to show his servants what must soon take place; he made it known by sending his angel to his servant John, 2 who testified to the word of God and to the testimony of Jesus Christ, even to all that he saw. 3 Blessed is the one who reads aloud the words of the prophecy, and blessed are those who hear and who keep what is written in it; for the time is near.
TEV - "Introduction" - "1 This book is the record of the events that Jesus" - Christ revealed. God gave him this revelation in order to show to his servants what must happen very soon. Christ made these things known to his servant John by sending his angel to him, 2 and John has told all that he has seen. This is his report concerning the message from God and the truth revealed by Jesus Christ. 3 Happy is the one who reads this book, and happy are those who listen to the words of this prophetic message and obey what is written in this book! For the time is near when all these things will happen.
KJV w/Strong# - {11} He that hath <2192> an ear <3775>, let him hear <191> what <5101> the Spirit <4151> saith <3004> unto the churches <1577>; He that overcometh <3528> shall not be hurt <91> of the second <1208> death <2288>.
NRSV - 11 Let anyone who has an ear listen to what the Spirit is saying to the churches. Whoever conquers will not be harmed by the second death.
TEV - "The Message to Smyrna" - 8 "To the angel of the church in Smyrna write: "This is the message from the one who is the first and the last, who died and lived again. 9 I know your troubles; I know that you are poor -- but really you are rich! I know the evil things said against you by those who claim to be Jews but are not; they are a group that belongs to Satan! 10 Don't be afraid of anything you are about to suffer. Listen! The Devil will put you to the test by having some of you thrown into prison, and your troubles will last ten days. Be faithful to me, even if it means death, and I will give you life as your prize of victory. 11 "If you have ears, then, listen to what the Spirit says to the churches! "Those who win the victory will not be hurt by the second death.
KJV w/Strong# - {7} And to the angel <32> of the church <1577> in Philadelphia <5359> write <1125>; These <3592> things saith <3004> he that is holy <40>, he that is true <228>, he that hath <2192> the key <2807> of David <1138>, he that openeth <455>, and no <3762> man <3762> shutteth <2808>; and shutteth <2808>, and no <3762> man <3762> openeth <455>; {8} I know <1492> thy works <2041>: behold <2400>, I have set <1325> before <1799> thee an open <455> door <2374>, and no <3762> man <3762> can <1410> shut <2808> it: for thou hast <2192> a little <3398> strength <1411>, and hast kept <5083> my word <3056>, and hast not denied <720> my name <3686>.
{20} Behold <2400>, I stand <2476> at <1909> the door <2374>, and knock <2925>: if <1437> any <5100> man hear <191> my voice <5456>, and open <455> the door <2374>, I will come <1525> in to him, and will sup <1172> with him, and he with me. {21} To him that overcometh <3528> will I grant <1325> to sit <2523> with me in my throne <2362>, even <2504> as I also <2504> overcame <3528>, and am set <2523> down <2523> with my Father <3962> in his throne <2362>.
NRSV - 7 "And to the angel of the church in Philadelphia write: These are the words of the holy one, the true one, who has the key of David, who opens and no one will shut, who shuts and no one opens: 8 "I know your works. Look, I have set before you an open door, which no one is able to shut. I know that you have but little power, and yet you have kept my word and have not denied my name.
20 Listen! I am standing at the door, knocking; if you hear my voice and open the door, I will come in to you and eat with you, and you with me. 21 To the one who conquers I will give a place with me on my throne, just as I myself conquered and sat down with my Father on his throne.
TEV - "The Message to Philadelphia" - 7 "To the angel of the church in Philadelphia write: "This is the message from the one who is holy and true. He has the key that belonged to David, and when he opens a door, no one can close it, and when he closes it, no one can open it. 8 I know what you do; I know that you have a little power; you have followed my teaching and have been faithful to me. I have opened a door in front of you, which no one can close. 9 Listen! As for that group that belongs to Satan, those liars who claim that they are Jews but are not, I will make them come and bow down at your feet. They will all know that I love you. 10 Because you have kept my command to endure, I will also keep you safe from the time of trouble which is coming upon the world to test all the people on earth.
"The Message to Laodicea" - 16 But because you are lukewarm, neither hot nor cold, I am going to spit you out of my mouth! 17 You say, "I am rich and well off; I have all I need.' But you do not know how miserable and pitiful you are! You are poor, naked, and blind. 18 I advise you, then, to buy gold from me, pure gold, in order to be rich. Buy also white clothing to dress yourself and cover up your shameful nakedness. Buy also some ointment to put on your eyes, so that you may see. 19 I rebuke and punish all whom I love. Be in earnest, then, and turn from your sins. 20 Listen! I stand at the door and knock; if anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come into his house and eat with him, and he will eat with me. 21 To those who win the victory I will give the right to sit beside me on my throne, just as I have been victorious and now sit by my Father on his throne.
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