Love/Hate

[rosered]

WOW !!!  :HeartThrob:      Please consider what  the Word says concerning  those matters of the heart  and keeping our heart pure  in the will of God  ,  you  ALL have given so much to think about ! I took both the KJV AND NLT   verses  because they both seem to clarify  alot  , for those who  use  both versions  as well as other versions of the Bible


KJV

Jhn 18:36 Jesus answered, My kingdom is not of this world: if my kingdom were of this world, then would my servants fight, that I should not be delivered to the Jews: but now is my kingdom not from hence.

Pilate therefore said unto him, Art thou a king then? Jesus answered, Thou sayest that I am a king. To this end was I born, and for this cause came I into the world, that I should bear witness unto the truth. Every one that is of the truth heareth my voice. Pilate saith unto him, What is truth? And when he had said this, he went out again unto the Jews, and saith unto them, I find in him no fault [at all].
NLT
Jhn 18:36 Jesus answered, "My Kingdom is not an earthly kingdom. If it were, my followers would fight to keep me from being handed over to the Jewish leaders. But my Kingdom is not of this world." Pilate said, "So you are a king?" Jesus responded, "You say I am a king. Actually, I was born and came into the world to testify to the truth. All who love the truth recognize that what I say is true."What is truth?" Pilate asked. Then he went out again to the people and told them, "He is not guilty of any crime.
KJV
Jhn 14:30 Hereafter I will not talk much with you: for the prince of this world cometh, and hath nothing in me.But that the world may know that I love the Father; and as the Father gave me commandment, even so I do. Arise, let us go hence.
NLT
Jhn 14:30 "I don't have much more time to talk to you, because the ruler of this world approaches. He has no power over me, but I will do what the Father requires of me, so that the world will know that I love the Father. Come, let's be going. 
KJV
Jhn 16:11 Of judgment, because the prince of this world is judged.

NLT

Jhn 16:11 Judgment will come because the ruler of this world has already been judged. 


I  find this so interesting  and how much it does apply to truth  , byt these two  words and  their meanings  in the Holy  WORD of God

  prin·ci·pal  (prns-pl)
adj.
1. First, highest, or foremost in importance, rank, worth, or degree; chief. See Synonyms at chief.
2. Of, relating to, or being financial principal, or a principal in a financial transaction.
n.
1. One who holds a position of presiding rank, especially the head of an elementary school or high school.
2. A main participant in a situation.
3. A person having a leading or starring role.
4.
a. The capital or main body of an estate or financial holding as distinguished from the interest or revenue from it.
b. A sum of money owed as a debt, upon which interest is calculated.
5. Law
a. A person who empowers another to act as his or her representative.
b. The person having prime responsibility for an obligation as distinguished from one who acts as surety or as an endorser.
c. One who commits or is an accomplice to a crime.
6. Architecture Either of a pair of inclined timbers forming the sides of a triangular truss for a pitched roof.

princi·pal·ly adv.
princi·pal·ship n.
Usage Note: Principal and principle are often confused but have no meanings in common. Principle is only a noun and usually refers to a rule or standard. Principal is both a noun and an adjective. As a noun, it has specialized meanings in law and finance, but in general usage it refers to a person who holds a high position or plays an important role: a meeting among all the principals in the transaction. As an adjective it has the sense of "chief" or "leading": The coach's principal concern is the quarterback's health.prin·ci·ple  (prns-pl)
n.
1. A basic truth, law, or assumption: the principles of democracy.
2.
a. A rule or standard, especially of good behavior: a man of principle.
b. The collectivity of moral or ethical standards or judgments: a decision based on principle rather than expediency.
3. A fixed or predetermined policy or mode of action.
4. A basic or essential quality or element determining intrinsic nature or characteristic behavior: the principle of self-preservation.
5. A rule or law concerning the functioning of natural phenomena or mechanical processes: the principle of jet propulsion.
6. Chemistry One of the elements that compose a substance, especially one that gives some special quality or effect.
7. A basic source. See Usage Note at principal.
Idioms:
in principle
With regard to the basics: an idea that is acceptable in principle.
on principle
According to or because of principle.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[Middle English, alteration of Old French principe, from Latin prncipium, from prnceps, prncip-, leader, emperor; see per1 in Indo-European roots.]

Isa 9:6 For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.


   I tried to just keep reading and keep quiet on this love /hate   thread , Have enjoyed reading  it  , lots to think about  , my how its makes you think ! 

  Jesus being the prince of peace     , died at the cross , so many more would  come in to the Kingdom of God  , that is NOT OF THIS WORLD  , this was the Fathers plan  and Jesus   being sent here   was  so obedient  to the will of God   and died to this world ,
  because its always been the  principle  /standard and LAW    that   the innocent  die to the hands /powers of the guilty  , this PROPHECY    , has always been the pattern   thought out this mortal existence 
we see this in the news  daily  , how evil and the prince of this world  prospers   and gets its way , from the sacrifice of innocent blood  ,  consider the wars  and every evil act ever done from that  pattern  , Cain and Abel    and you have to ask did Cain Love his brother as himself ? 

  I wanted to show how   Jesus  is the PRINCE /PRINCIPAL  or chief and FIRST in rank and class  as the LEADER TO LIFE [KINGDOM OF GOD ] 
AND how the battles are  by the standard or Law  principle of Love   , both serve  this   dual purpose

   we are not battling against  flesh and blood , but by powers and principalities in HIGH places  , that we will not fail the test because we are being protected   by the Lords power over   the evil of this worlds ways , the scriptures  are the WORD OF TRUTH to reinforce  it   and By Gods Spirit  we will prevail  , believing   the truth and   dying TO  sin , NOT IN  sin .  Jesus took that sin and nailed it to HIS CROSS  , that we would not have to bear that death , but  die TO sin , not IN sin  .. to me that is  the difference  between   them
   from  the ones  chosen   for HIS PURPOSE  out of the world ....
my goodness so much to consider  when you think about it ...

Eph 6:12 For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high [places].

Eph 6:12 For we  are not fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against mighty powers in this dark world, and against evil spirits in the heavenly places.Therefore, put on every piece of God's armor so you will be able to resist the enemy in the time of evil. Then after the battle you will still be standing firm.
1Pe 3:17 For [it is] better, if the will of God be so, that ye suffer for well doing, than for evil doing.1Pe 3:17 Remember, it is better to suffer for doing good, if that is what God wants, than to suffer for doing wrong! Christ suffered  for our sins once for all time. He never sinned, but he died for sinners to bring you safely home to God. He suffered physical death, but he was raised to life in the Spirit. 

1Pe 4:19 Wherefore let them that suffer according to the will of God commit the keeping of their souls [to him] in well doing, as unto a faithful Creator.
1Pe 4:19 So if you are suffering in a manner that pleases God, keep on doing what is right, and trust your lives to the God who created you, for he will never fail you.
 

For those  who believe , we SEE JESUS  , our King
peace in Jesus [the head of all authority ]   & /the  body of Christ [His church  in Truth ] and the two   principle laws  that all are hung upon    including us  , 1. Love God first , with your all and 2. your neighbour as yourself  [your all]

[Molly]

Amen, Sheila.  What a beautiful resurrection day sermon!

Satan achieved his position by lying, murder,  and deceit.  But, Jesus, who as the Son of God could have just been appointed his position, earned it by dying for us on the cross, thereby proving his great love for us, his great trustworthiness, and his willingness to do whatever it takes to make it possible for us to be with him forever.


Worthy is the Lamb


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3x2fSxOeij4


9 And they sung a new song, saying, Thou art worthy to take the book, and to open the seals thereof: for thou wast slain, and hast redeemed us to God by thy blood out of every kindred, and tongue, and people, and nation;

10 And hast made us unto our God kings and priests: and we shall reign on the earth.

11 And I beheld, and I heard the voice of many angels round about the throne and the beasts and the elders: and the number of them was ten thousand times ten thousand, and thousands of thousands;

12 Saying with a loud voice, Worthy is the Lamb that was slain to receive power, and riches, and wisdom, and strength, and honour, and glory, and blessing.

13 And every creature which is in heaven, and on the earth, and under the earth, and such as are in the sea, and all that are in them, heard I saying, Blessing, and honour, and glory, and power, be unto him that sitteth upon the throne, and unto the Lamb for ever and ever.

14 And the four beasts said, Amen. And the four and twenty elders fell down and worshipped him that liveth for ever and ever.

--Rev 5

[eaglesway]

Ah Glory! Sisters, You made my Sunday sundae :o)

[jabcat]

We often say "Jesus hung out with sinners".  He did/does spend time with them (us).

But He also said this;  if a brother sins against you, go to him.  If he won't listen, take one or two others with you to talk to him.  If he won't listen, tell the church.  If he still won't listen, treat him as a pagan or a corrupt tax collector.  Matthew 18:17

He loved the "very" sinful woman at the well.  In parting, He told her to sin no more.  Wonder what would have happened if next time He saw her, she'd had a couple more different men she was sleeping with.  Then a third time, He perceived/she told Him she had even more.  Do you think He'd just keep "hanging around" with her? 

I truly believe Jesus hangs around us sinners - to CHANGE us. 

[lomarah]

"Treat him as a pagan or tax collector." How did Jesus tell us to treat the pagans and tax collectors? How did He tell us to treat our enemies? "Bless those who curse you. Pray for those who persecute you." And He said then we would be true sons of God because that is how our Father in heaven treats people.

We will be changed. His love will change us. Because He loves us.

[jabcat]

someone pointed out the woman at the well and the adulteress were 2 different women.  my mistake.  so the example is of the adulteress.  I also wanted to add, "if the 2nd and 3rd time she said, nah, I got this, I don't need anything from you".

Lomarah, I believe what you say has merit and a measure of truth, but I don't believe it's taking in the whole account(s).  Do you believe Jesus was also speaking through Paul when He said at some point don't even eat with them?  Also, Jesus said to His disciples that if those they spoke to didn't hear/accept them, to dust the shoes off their feet and move on. 

Love - scriptural love.  Do you believe Jesus was all love?  I do too.  Do I think we always know what true love is or looks like?  No, and I'll likely spend the rest of my natural life trying to understand how to apply it properly, sometimes getting it "right", sometimes messing it up.    So with us both agreeing Jesus is all love - I believe  Jesus was love when He spent time with the woman, being kind to her, not villifying her, not being mean to her, forgiving her.  However, I also believe He was love when He said "go and sin no more".  I believe He's also love when He warned us to not resume certain sinful behaviors, "lest something worse come upon you".  I'm NOT, NOT, NOT talking about extremes  I believe there's a spiritual, scriptural balance that sound doctrine supports.   So I don't believe in hating people, unkindly rejecting them (even "cutting off" at some point can be loving and done with love - if the woman insisted on keeping sinning, Jesus wouldn't have been mean or hateful to her, and He's our pattern.)  However, I also don't believe ALWAYS just being silent - even to the point of avoiding an issue when given the Spirit-led opportunity (which I DO!) - or ESPECIALLY as is being done in ever-widening and encroaching circles (which is what REALLY concerns me societally and within the church), saying "ah, it's OK.  God didn't really mean that.  After all, He's love, so don't worry about it".

You know, I've been thinking more about Willy.  God didn't need to tell Willy he was sinning.  Willy already knew.  Someone had already told him (maybe even some inappropriately so, being condemning, angry, etc.).  But having been exposed to scriptural teachings, he already knew he was a sinner.    Compare/contrast that to Paul, who God told him directly that Saul/Paul was persecuting Him.  Paul didn't know - he thought he was doing right - so God let Him know otherwise - in His love - as part of His changing him.   :2c:

[lomarah]

 :thumbsup: Agreed. Every circumstance is different. That's why we need the Lord's leading in all things.  :gimmefive:

[jabcat]

:thumbsup: Agreed. Every circumstance is different. That's why we need the Lord's leading in all things.  :gimmefive:

AGREED!!!!!    :dsunny:

[jabcat]

That's really the crux of what I'm thinking and saying.  Not one isolated scripture, or even scriptural concept takes in all things, every person, and every situation.  God is love, so love "loves"  :laughing7: - and it speaks the truth.

I believe the very best summary of all this is the Holy Spirit through Paul saying, "speak the truth in love".  So for me, our task is finding out - each of us before God and within the scriptures - what do both  :2c:those things look like, and how do they tie together.   :2c:

Speak the truth in love requires having the love of God within us, pouring out to share (your spending time with Him references) and as w/p says, spending time in the Word - really open to it and the Spirit's leading and interpretation - so we know what the truth really is.   :gimmefive:

[shawn]

Jab, I really think you nailed it.  I also think it's why I get defensive about law, judgmental believers, coming down too hard on sinners.  I get this image of street corner signs about burning in hell for the sin du jour.  I get visions of brutal honesty, or going up to strangers in the mall judging their lives.

When truth is delivered it should come from a relationship with that person that has built upon caring, love and good service towards that individual.  Anything less doesn't work, and merely creates an environment of distrust and antimosity.

[Molly]

Lest we forget, Jesus wasn't quietly and passively  'speaking the truth in love' to the money changers when he turned over their tables, shouted at them that they had turned his Father's house into a den of thieves, and drove them out of there with whips.

Sometimes it's important to take a very clear stand on things, no matter who you alienate.


That is why he says, Count the cost.

[ded2daworld]

He only got angry when the moneychangers were doing it in Jesus' Fathers house.
Kinda like if you caught the pastor with a person in the very church having sex with someone not his wife (male OR female) - see I'm not predjudiced except against sin. :Peace2:
Jesus coulda taken out the guys nailing him(his body temple) to the wood but  it seems the sanctity of the temple of his fathers house was very important. Besides, if there were no outburst like that, some of the publics perception of Jesus being a kinda pantywaist hippie would tend to be reinforced instead of the truly man's man that he was

[marie glen]

..interesting thread! :mthumbsup: :smile:

[eaglesway]

Jesus only displayed anger aginst corrupt leaders, greedy merchants and shepherds. This is an undisputable fact.

The closest thing to anger Jesus expressed to His disciples was exasperation at their unbelief.

Jesus did not ever go around telling "sinners" they were going to hell, or in any way rail at them or even condemn them.

He did make defining statements about righteousness and unrighteousness.

Jesus "took on" the powers that be. He spoke out against injustice and hypocrisy that they conspired to murder Him because His popularity among the people was so great.

When I see sign that say "Jesus or Hell" and the like, it disgusts me, because it is not the Spirit of Christ, or the message of the gospel- just the muddy water of polluted religion masquerading as the gospel. The wages of sin are death. A friend of mine used to say.

"Speak life. Death comes by itself."

[ded2daworld]

EW :thumbsup:
I was thinking last night that in the old testament, God is seemingly portrayed as somewhat harsh and a no nonsense-take no prisoners approach...yet- one would be hard pressed to find any indication whatsoever of anything remotely resembling society's version of "hell" anywhere in the OT.
On the other hand, Jesus is portrayed as God in the flesh and an incredible, loving, caring, forgiving, merciful person that anyone would be hard pressed to even imagine Jesus tormenting anyone without a good purpose. Certainly not unending. :2c:

[jabcat]

Thanks Shawn, I agree.  I believe the truth is somewhere between Westboro "Baptist Church" (screaming/condemning) and Unitarian Universalist "Church" ("Satanist?  That's OK, wanna preach in this morning's service?"   :doh:)   
----------
Interesting things to think about.  Weren't the money changers, Sadducees, and Pharissees "sinners"?   :Chinscratch:   That makes me think of those within the church that teach false doctrine - Paul (and Jesus) came down pretty hard on them.  (Judgment begins at the house of God?).  IMO, it's an awesome responsibility to be in the ecclesia and have influence on others.

I do agree, Jesus typically pointed out sin in a gentle, helpful way - forgiving, and showing them a better way.  He said He didn't condemn, His Words either condemned (if rejected, consequences) or brought life (if received, "welcome to the Kingdom").   He is described as both Lamb and Lion, but of course His ways, Words, judgment, and communion with the Holy Spirit was perfect, so He knew exactly what to do, how, and when.  We're going to struggle.    Blessings.

[Molly]

Jesus only displayed anger aginst corrupt leaders, greedy merchants and shepherds. This is an undisputable fact.

yeah.  We could use a bit more of that these days, couldn't we?

The closest thing to anger Jesus expressed to His disciples was exasperation at their unbelief.

Jesus did not ever go around telling "sinners" they were going to hell, or in any way rail at them or even condemn them.

He did make defining statements about righteousness and unrighteousness.

He didn't have to, their condemnation was built into the equation--those who rejected him were condemned already.

Maybe the same is true for us, for all I know.

Jesus "took on" the powers that be. He spoke out against injustice and hypocrisy that they conspired to murder Him because His popularity among the people was so great.

Exactly.  That's why he says if they're trying to kill you, you've got it right.  :laugh:

[eaglesway]

Murder most foul- my vindication is written in the blood upon your hands.

Cain, WHere is your brother?

Am I my brother's keeper?

Your brother Able's blood is crying out from the ground.

[eaglesway]

EW :thumbsup:
I was thinking last night that in the old testament, God is seemingly portrayed as somewhat harsh and a no nonsense-take no prisoners approach...yet- one would be hard pressed to find any indication whatsoever of anything remotely resembling society's version of "hell" anywhere in the OT.
On the other hand, Jesus is portrayed as God in the flesh and an incredible, loving, caring, forgiving, merciful person that anyone would be hard pressed to even imagine Jesus tormenting anyone without a good purpose. Certainly not unending. :2c:

Amen. When the veil is pulled back, and God's plan of the ages is seen from the perspective of completion- I think we will see that God has been dealing with "mankind" since the beginning. Certainly He also deals with individuals, but He also teaches families, communities, cities, nations, and the whole race of men through the dealings of His wisdom and outstretched hand.

The difference we see in how God dealt with men under the old covenant is also a difference in "mankind" after the rending of the veil (in the creators torn flesh) and the outpouring of the Holy Spirit. The stages of God's RESTORATION of ALL THINGS beginning right from the beginning, and realized as each epoch/era/aion is fulfilled.

Some of the things we read seem barbarian to us today- but in those days there was a different reality, a darker stronger veil over the hearts of "mankind". A harsher hand needed to put the bit and bridle in the mouth of the "mule".

[reFORMer]

EW :thumbsup:
I was thinking last night that in the old testament, God is seemingly portrayed as somewhat harsh and a no nonsense-take no prisoners approach...yet- one would be hard pressed to find any indication whatsoever of anything remotely resembling society's version of "hell" anywhere in the OT.
On the other hand, Jesus is portrayed as God in the flesh and an incredible, loving, caring, forgiving, merciful person that anyone would be hard pressed to even imagine Jesus tormenting anyone without a good purpose. Certainly not unending. :2c:

Amen. When the veil is pulled back, and God's plan of the ages is seen from the perspective of completion- I think we will see that God has been dealing with "mankind" since the beginning. Certainly He also deals with individuals, but He also teaches families, communities, cities, nations, and the whole race of men through the dealings of His wisdom and outstretched hand.

The difference we see in how God dealt with men under the old covenant is also a difference in "mankind" after the rending of the veil (in the creators torn flesh) and the outpouring of the Holy Spirit. The stages of God's RESTORATION of ALL THINGS beginning right from the beginning, and realized as each epoch/era/aion is fulfilled.

Some of the things we read seem barbarian to us today- but in those days there was a different reality, a darker stronger veil over the hearts of "mankind". A harsher hand needed to put the bit and bridle in the mouth of the "mule".

God hasn't changed His mind about right and wrong.  The thing we now have to tell people is your sins, even that for which death is the just reward, have been paid for by the death of God's only begotten son.  Sin is not less and punishment is not less.  It is that Jesus paid it all.  We can freely come to God in the righteousness of Christ.  Accepting God's payment means God now reckons us righteous.  He imputes righteous to us.  This reckoning, or imputing is explained in scripture (Rom 4) as what happened to Abraham when he believed God.  He had no children and he and his wife were over 100 years old.  Then God said to Abraham that he was the father of millions that is, many nations.  Because he believed (without any evidence of children and in spite of their condition,) God imputed righteousness unto him.  This is what he is doing to sinners today, sinners who have no evidence of righteousness.  We believe in the death of Jesus for us and we have imputed righteousness.  It is God that justifies.  The gift of the Holy Spirit that comes with this righteousness of God is also freely given. 

[CHB]

The difference we see in how God dealt with men under the old covenant is also a difference in "mankind" after the rending of the veil (in the creators torn flesh) and the outpouring of the Holy Spirit. The stages of God's RESTORATION of ALL THINGS beginning right from the beginning, and realized as each epoch/era/aion is fulfilled.

Some of the things we read seem barbarian to us today- but in those days there was a different reality, a darker stronger veil over the hearts of "mankind". A harsher hand needed to put the bit and bridle in the mouth of the "mule".

Eaglesway, while reading this post I thought of something.

The Old Testament was all about law, the New all about grace. Maybe God was showing how great the difference was between the two, by his actions toward those of the OT verses those of the New. The consequences of the OT, the rewards of the NT. Maybe the reason God was harsh in the OT, he was showing man how futile and dangerous it was for man to rely on himself instead of God and the consequences he would have to endure because of it.

Don't know if I explained this the way it should be? Will have to think on it some more.

CHB

[Molly]

One thing to remember is that all of the saints in the OT operated under grace.  They had the indwelt Holy Spirit, as well.  They knew Jesus.

Without that, then it is all just a bunch of rules to memorize, which is why the body of the Israelites kept failing at it.

[ded2daworld]

Please Molly, I am in agreement with you and mean no offense whatsoever:

One other thing to remember is that all of the saints in the new testament operate under grace. We have the indwelt Holy Spirit as well. We know Jesus.Without that, then it is all just a bunch of rules to memorize, which is why the modern church keeps failing at it.  :Peace2:

[eaglesway]

The difference we see in how God dealt with men under the old covenant is also a difference in "mankind" after the rending of the veil (in the creators torn flesh) and the outpouring of the Holy Spirit. The stages of God's RESTORATION of ALL THINGS beginning right from the beginning, and realized as each epoch/era/aion is fulfilled.

Some of the things we read seem barbarian to us today- but in those days there was a different reality, a darker stronger veil over the hearts of "mankind". A harsher hand needed to put the bit and bridle in the mouth of the "mule".

Eaglesway, while reading this post I thought of something.

The Old Testament was all about law, the New all about grace. Maybe God was showing how great the difference was between the two, by his actions toward those of the OT verses those of the New. The consequences of the OT, the rewards of the NT. Maybe the reason God was harsh in the OT, he was showing man how futile and dangerous it was for man to rely on himself instead of God and the consequences he would have to endure because of it.

Don't know if I explained this the way it should be? Will have to think on it some more.

CHB

Honestly, ChB, I think what you wrote is one of the most succinct expressions of what God is teaching "mankind" through the ages and why He allows futility and self-will, that I have ever read.  :o)

iMO it is all about a broken and a contrite heart. Individually, and eventually, corporately among every sentient creature of God.

Brokenness is the only gateway of love. God knows better than any- He was broken as He watched His son suffer and die on a cross for His creation.

Only a broken heart can forgive; can be humble; can be tolerant; can be generous; can be healed.

All of mankind is being broken by the Rock that doesn't roll.

"If I be lifted up I will draw all men unto me"

[rosered]

Thanks  :thumbsup:   
  the old Law is  harsh judgment , and   die without mercy under  2 or 3 witnesses
  thought of   the grace  of God though Christ our mercy     Hebrews 7  NLT


15 This change has been made very clear since a different priest, who is like Melchizedek, has appeared. 16 Jesus became a priest, not by meeting the physical requirement of belonging to the tribe of Levi, but by the power of a life that cannot be destroyed. 17 And the psalmist pointed this out when he prophesied,

"You are a priest forever in the order of Melchizedek."[c]

18 Yes, the old requirement about the priesthood was set aside because it was weak and useless. 19 For the law never made anything perfect. But now we have confidence in a better hope, through which we draw near to God.20 This new system was established with a solemn oath. Aaron's descendants became priests without such an oath, 21 but there was an oath regarding Jesus. For God said to him,

"The Lord has taken an oath and will not break his vow:
    'You are a priest forever.'

22 Because of this oath, Jesus is the one who guarantees this better covenant with God.


23 There were many priests under the old system, for death prevented them from remaining in office.

24 But because Jesus lives forever, his priesthood lasts forever. 25 Therefore he is able, once and forever, to save[e] those who come to God through him. He lives forever to intercede with God on their behalf.

26 He is the kind of high priest we need because he is holy and blameless, unstained by sin. He has been set apart from sinners and has been given the highest place of honor in heaven.