Father (1) + Christ (1) + Holy Spirit (1) = 3?

Question:

Jomelie Basa: Hi,goodmorning paanu ba naging 1+1+1=1 I Mean Father,son and holy spirit is equal One salamat the Lord Bless you more. Yung Taglay ni Jesus ang pag ka Dios then ung Father,son and holy spirit are in one.Paanu ba sila naging iisa na?dahil ba sa iisang layunin,pangarap,isang hangarin?di ko masyado maaruk.

Answer:

Hi Sis. kung ang Iglesia ni Cristo 1914 at ang mga Saksi ni Jehovah ang pabibilangin ng 1 + 1 + 1 ay magiging tatlo talaga yan.
Bakit?

“Satan, who is the god of this world, has blinded the minds of those who don’t believe. They are unable to see the glorious light of the Good News. They don’t understand this message about the glory of Christ, who is the exact likeness of God.”(2 Corinthians 4:4, New Living Translation)

Pati na yung mga miyembro nila halos ipagpipilitang ipagtanggol ang kanilang maling paniniwala dahil naloko sila ng kanilang mga tagapagturo.

“so ignore them. They are blind guides leading the blind, and if one blind person guides another, they will both fall into a ditch.”(Matthew 15:14, New Living Translation)

So, hindi makakaunawa ang mga taong binulag.
Tignan mo si Apostol Juan, siya ay hindi bulag kagaya ng mga INC at Saksi ni Jehovah.

Si Cristo at ang Ama ay iisa sa pagka-Diyos.
Yung sulat ni Apostol Juan sa John 1:1 ay pinipilipit nitong mga hindi marunong sa greek.
Ito ang greek text ng John 1:1

The Greek words and translations are: 

Greek to English Translation:

Ngayon, baka magtaka po ang iba sa atin dahil karamihan sa salin ng english bible ay ganito.

New Living Translation
In the beginning the Word already existed. The Word was with God, and the Word was God.
English Standard Version
In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.
New American Standard Bible
In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.
Holman Christian Standard Bible
In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.
International Standard Version
In the beginning, the Word existed. The Word was with God, and the Word was God.

Pero sa Greek ang nakasulat ay “and God was the word” instead “the word was God”.
Now, yung mga hindi naniniwala sa pagka-Diyos ni Jesus ay sasabihin nilang may deperensiya pala pagdating sa greek, pero sa totoo ay walang pagkakaiba, may deperensiya lamang ito para sa mga hindi nakakaintindi ng language, ang mga taong walang alam sa greek titignan lamang nilang literal ito at sasabihin lamang nilang ay mali yan.
Pero dapat malaman ng mga hindi marunong sa greek na sa greek the word order ay hindi kagaya sa english, sa english ang word ay napakaimportante, you know kagaya ng subject, verb, direct object. Pero sa greek because of the way the language is inflicted, you can move things around and get the exact same meaning, so kagaya ng mga nasusulat sa maraming bible version ay hindi ito kaiba sa nakasulat sa greek text.
Meron lamang ilan version ng bibliya na gamit ng mga hindi naniniwalang Diyos si Cristo ay may malaking deperensiya talaga.
Kung napapansin natin ay may slight difference sa dalawang nabanggit na greek text “theon” and “theos” pareho na ang kahulugan nila ay God. Ang dahilan ay ang theos ay Nominative case at ang theon ay ang acusative case.

Sa greek, nouns change, based upon whether the subject or the object.
In greek, God as a subject is gonna look a bit different than God as an object. God here (theon) is not a direct object, but God here is the object of a preposition.
Because this is the phrase THE WORD WAS WITH GOD ὁ λόγος ην προς τον θεον, with is the “pros” preposition. Because God here is the object of a preposition, it needs to become θεον or theon, not θεος or theos.
The greek, ton theon-the God, with the definite article implying that John has a specific person in mind. John’s uses of the preposition pros ‘with’ is significant.
It implies that the Father and the Son had an intimate as well as eternal relationship.
Kaya nga noong sabihin ni Jesus na, “The Father and I are one.”(John 10:30) ay iisa sila sa pagka-Diyos.
At kaya nga sya babatuhin ng mga hudyo dahil dito.

They replied, “We’re stoning you not for any good work, but for blasphemy! You, a mere man, claim to be God.”(John 10:33)

Kung iisipin mong mabuti, ang mga hudyo ay hindi naniniwala na si Cristo ay Diyos at ganun din ang mga INC.
Kung ang mga hudyo ay nagagalit kay Cristo nang sinabi nyang ako at ang Ama ay iisa, ang mga INC din ay nagagalit sa tuwing sinasabi nating mga Katoliko na si Cristo at ang Ama ay iisa sa pagka-Diyos.

The Original Article was made by aplogete.com

-regards,
Randel Paul

‘TRINITY’ IN THE BIBLE

The Holy Trinity

Those who deny the Divinity of Jesus are compelled to deny the Divine nature of the Holy Spirit. For them, “The Trinity of God” is beyond human understanding. So they deny it. They just forget the fact that God, who created man, can never be a slave of human intelligence. The Holy Spirit is considered only as an angel or one of the seven spirits. They, try to confuse “Trinity” as “Tri-theism” (Three-gods) and criticize Catholics as ‘Trinitarians.’ Did God reveal Himself  as ‘Trinity’ in the Bible? Why do we believe in this Great Mystery?

The term ‘Trinity’

As we all know, Divine Revelation is explained through the centuries by some theological terms. Although they are insufficient to explain the truth revealed in depth. We can never find the word ‘Bible’ in an authentic translation of the Bible. The word ‘Bible’ itself is a term that appeared in history in the 4th century. But we believe in it. Similarly, we don’t see the word ‘Trinity’ in the Bible. But to explain the Divine Mystery revealed to us about God the Father, the Son and The Holy Spirit, we use the term ‘Trinity.’

The word ‘Trinity’ is first used by St. Theophilus of Antioch in his book ‘Epistle to Antolycus’ in A.D. 180 (Greek: Triados). Remember, at that time there was no ‘Bible’ in the Church. In fact the term ‘Trinity’ is more ancient than the word ‘Bible’ itself. Before the formation of the Bible, those who worked behind the creation of a canonical book ‘Bible’ believed and accepted ‘The Trinity’ as God’s revealed truth handed over to them from the apostles. After some years, Tertullian (A.D. 160-250) used a Latin term for Trinity (Trinitas) in his work “Modesty.’ He wrote: “Trinity of the one Divinity; Father, Son and Holy Spirit” (chapter 22).

ETERNAL EXISTENCE OF HOLY TRINITY

Plurality of God in The Old Testament

In the Old Testament, God reveals Himself not as a single person, but ‘persons.’ In Hebrew, the word for God is not ‘El,’ singular noun, but plural ‘Elohim,’ which can never be translated as a single person ‘god’ as we usually do. Elohim is a plural noun with a singular form. It has a plural morphological form in Hebrew (Ref: Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia). This plural word ‘Elohim’ occurs 2700 times in the Bible. Hebrews called God “Elohim,” which really meant ‘Divine Persons’ (Ref: Jerusalem Bible Footnote). There are evidences to prove this plural personality of God, in the Bible:

Genesis 1:26-Then God said: “Let Us make man in Our image, according to Our likeness; let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, over the birds of the air…” Here, the ‘likeness of God’ is plural as He creates ‘Man’ as ‘male and female.’ Therefore, Adam and Eve shared one flesh, just as Father and Son shares one substance. Adam and Eve were one spirit, just like Father and Son shares one Spirit  (Malachi 2:15). Thus, the whole creation becomes the ‘image’ reflection, or mirroring of the manifold life of Divine nature of Trinity.

Genesis  3:22-Then the Lord God said, “Behold the man has become like one of Us, to know good and evil….”

Genesis 11:7-God said, “Come, let Us go down and confuse their language, that they may not understand one another’s speech…”

Isaiah 6:8-“I heard the voice of the Lord, ‘Whom shall I send? Who will go for Us?’” But only Jesus can call God the Father in singular form. So, he did it while he was dying on the cross. “El, El, lema sabachtani.”-Matthew 27:46

Anti-Trinitarians always quote Deu.6:4 to deny this mystery, which says: “Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God is One Lord.” In fact, the biblical word here used for ‘One’ is “echad” which is a corporate oneness. Not a numeric count.

The Bible says to us that there are three that bear witness in heaven, the Father, the Word, and the Holy Ghost (1Jn.5:7). The Bible reveals “God has a Son” Prov.30:4; “Who knows the name of God and the name of His Son!” The Bible also says the Holy Spirit exists with God; “Now the Lord has sent me and His Spirit.”

God is defined as Love in the Bible. If God is a single individual, this definition becomes invalid as He could never give and experience love. C.S. Lewis, the famous thinker says: “If God was a single person, then, before the world was made, he was not love.”

HOLY TRINITY IN THE NEW TESTAMENT

The Holy Spirit proceeds from the Father in union with Jesus. John 15:26-“But when the Comforter comes, whom I will send unto you from the Father, even the Spirit of truth, which proceeds from the Father, he shall testify me.” The Bible uses the Greek word ‘pneuma’ (pnyoo’-mah’) for Holy Spirit, which means ‘breath’ or ‘life-giving spirit.’ When God created man, He ‘breathed’ on Adam and gave him life. Jesus breathed on apostles and said, “Receive the Holy Spirit” (Jn.20:22). The Holy Spirit is the Breath of the Father and the Son, who is proceeding from both of them.

Jesus himself reveals the unity and equality of three persons of Trinity when he commanded: Matthew 28:19, “Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.” Here, the ‘name’ singular is used for the plurality of “Father, Son and the Holy Spirit” (not the plural ‘names’). This singular ‘name’ implies the fundamental unity of Three Divine Persons. Those who deny the divine nature of Jesus and the Holy Spirit are baptizing their members “In the name of the Father,the God, Son the man, Holy Spirit an angel.” Through baptism, God, who is the Trinity, chooses us. 1 Pet. 1:2, “…who have been chosen according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, through the sanctifying work of the Spirit, for obedience to Jesus Christ.”

St. Paul explains this mystery more clearer when he says: “There are different  kinds of gifts, but the same Spirit, there are different kinds of service, but the same Lord, there are different kinds of working, but the same God works all of them in all men” (1 Cor. 12:4-6). The creative work of Heavenly Father, the redemptive work of the Son and sanctifying work of the Spirit are same work of the Almighty.

There is only one God; the Creator! He has only one son; Jesus Christ! He founded only one Church; upon Peter! Only the Catholic Church has divine origin!

Article Taken Form "Know The Truth" first edition magazine of Fr. Paul Kaiparambadan

regards,

Randel Paul

Choose The Good Thing Which Is In The Bible Instead Of One That Has No Basis

There are many who are not aware of us. Those who read this right now should pray that we can correct any wrongdoings by studying the Words of God written in the Bible.

1. Say God Bless instead of Good Luck

We often use these expressions for our friends, loved ones and acquaintances. Many use “Good Luck” to those who take examinations, looking for jobs or starting on new businesses. If you will be asked, which one will cause a lot of good? Let us remember…

“The tongue has the power of life and death.”(Proverbs 18:21)

Let us look at the definition of Good Luck in a dictionary.

What is not right with Good Luck is that many people believe in superstitions. It does not conform to what is in the heart of God.

“You have died with Christ, and he has set you free from the spiritual powers of this world. So why do you keep on following the rules of the world, such as, Don’t handle! Don’t taste! Don’t touch!? Such rules are mere human teachings about things that deteriorate as we use them.”(Colossians 2:20-22)

There are many people who believe in good luck and are frustrated because they do not follow the wishes of God.

“Man can turn his troubles to his advantage; a lucky chance can turn to loss.”(Sirach 20:9)

What does God like you to say?
1. David

“The heaven, even the heavens, are the LORD’s;But the earth He has given to the children of men. May the Lord God bless you in all that you do!”(Psalms 115:14-16)

2.) Isaac

“May God Almighty bless you and make you increase to become a group of nations.”(Genesis 28:3)

3.) Apostle Paul

“You know that all from the province of Asia have deserted me, especially Phygelus and Hermogenes. May God bless the household of Onesiphoras, for he often came to visit me and was not ashamed of my chains.”(2 Timothy 1:15-16)

2. Reaping What You Sow instead of Karma

Honestly, many people use the term “karma” without truly understanding what it means. If they understood what karma really is, They will realize that this type of thinking is wrong. Firstly, What Is Karma? Karma is a religious belief followed by Hindus. It is a word that comes from the Sanskrit language which means “action”. Secondly, What Is Hinduism? Hinduism is one of the oldest known organized religions— The sacred writings go back to 1400 to 1500 B.C. It is also one of the most diverse and complex, having millions of gods. Now, Let us examine that error in the light of Truth. This is correct

“Consecrate them in the truth – your word is truth.”(John 17:17)

The Question is, How Many True Gods Are There? The Bible clearly teaches that there is only one true God.

“Concerning therefore the eating of things sacrificed to idols, we know that no idol is anything in the world, and that THERE IS NO GOD BUT ONE.”(1 Corinthians 8:4) “Do you believe there is one God? Well enough.”(James 2:19)

Thirdly, As A Matter Of Fact, Karma Cannot Exist Without Reincarnation. The Act Of Repeatedly Being Born And Dying. What are the beliefs about life and death in Hinduism? It is a popular belief among Hindus that they reincarnate after their death. If you believe in reincarnation, you are not believing in the Bible. Reincarnation contradicts historical Christian teachings and biblical concept of the resurrection of the dead. There will not be multiple bodies for one soul which is what reincarnation requires. The body is not something to be discarded and forgotten but will be reunited with the soul at the final judgment. There will never be multiple bodies for one soul. This is the requirement of reincarnation. The body should not be discarded and forgotten. It will be reunited with the soul during the final judgment.

“And just as it is appointed for man to die once, and after that comes judgment.”(Hebrews 9:27)

We live one life, die one death and then we face judgment. There is no second, third, or a hundred reincarnations and then return to life on earth. There Is No Other Direction That We Should Follow Other Than The True Word Of God. St. Paul and Other apostles did not use the word “karma”. Instead St. Paul used the phrase “You reap what you sow” Correct

“Don’t be deceived: God is not mocked. For whatever a man sows he will also reap.”(Galatians 6:7)

Saint Paul Also Encourages Us To Become More Faithful Followers Of Jesus Christ.

“Be followers of me, even as I also am of Christ.”(1 Corinthians 11:1)

So, It’s Good For Us To Determine What Pleases The Lord.

“You yourselves search out what pleases the Lord.”(Ephesians 5:10)

3. Year of the Lord instead of Year of the Snake

 Do You Believe in God? If yes, Then you have to believe His Word.

“To proclaim the acceptable YEAR OF THE LORD, and the day of vengeance of our God; to comfort all that mourn.”(Isaiah 61:2)

4. Christmas Instead of Xmas

 Some people might say that “Xmas” is not trying to “X” Christ out of Christmas. It actually is a legitimate abbreviation.” “X” comes from the Greek letter Chi, which is the first letter of the Greek word Χριστός which comes into English as “Christ”, Yes, that’s right. But not all people know this. It’s not a good enough reason! Christmas is directly related to CHRIST Jesus and he should be given due recognition for the day

“And for the sake of his Name, we received grace and mission in all the nations, for them to accept the faith.” (Romans 1:5)

We should do what’s right in order to avoid Misinterpretation. “Let your conversation be pleasing with a touch of wit. Know how to speak to everyone in the best way.” (Colossians 4:6)

Original Source: Apologete

The Biblical Foundations of the Mysteries in the Holy Rosary

Original Article was created by Apologete Blog

The Five Joyful Mysteries

1. The Annunciation of the Angel to Mary

“To a young virgin who was betrothed to a man named Joseph, of the family of David; and the virgin’s name was Mary. The angel came to her and said, “Rejoice, full of grace, the Lord is with you.”(Luke 1:27-28)

Many of us are wandering that in unexpected situations, God will choose us to accomplish His goals. Let us not refuse since He already chose us. Let us give Him our big, “YES” and while there is time and we are still breathing, let us do the things that God asks us to do so we can follow his wishes.

“So while there is time, let us do good to all and especially to our family in the faith.”(Galatians 6:10)

Let us also offer prayers for people that God chose for an important mission although there is fear and shame on their hearts. This will make them stronger and have the fortitude for them to give their yes to God.

” And we shall confidently answer: The Lord is my helper, I will not fear.”(Hebrews 13:6)

2. The Visitation of Mary to Saint Elizabeth

“Mary then set out for a town in the Hills of Judah.She entered the house of Zechariah and greeted Elizabeth. When Elizabeth heard Mary’s greeting, the baby leapt in her womb. Elizabeth was filled with holy spirit, and giving a loud cry, said, “You are most blessed among women and blessed is the fruit of your womb! How is it that the mother of my Lord comes to me? The moment your greeting sounded in my ears, the baby within me suddenly leapt for joy. Blessed are you who believed that the Lord’s word would come true!” And Mary said: My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord, my spirit exults in God my savior! He has looked upon his servant in her lowliness, and people forever will call me blessed. The Mighty One has done great things for me, Holy is his Name!”(Luke 1:39-49)

Let us accept Mary as our mother with our whole hearts because Christ gave her to all Christians as their mother.
Lets us give our highest respect to her just like Elizabeth’s acknowledgement of her as the mother of the Lord. (Luke 1:43)
Let us also pray for those who sinned because of abortion so that they can be forgiven and those who are planning to abort their babies.
They should have fear in their hearts so they cannot commit this sin and realize that babies in their wombs are important before the eyes of God.

“Children are a gift from the LORD; they are a reward from him.”(Psalms 127:3)

3. The Nativity of Jesus in Bethlehem

“They were in Bethlehem when the time came for her to have her child, and she gave birth to a son, her firstborn. She wrapped him in swaddling clothes and laid him in the manger, because there was no place for them in the living room.There were shepherds camping in the countryside, taking turns to watch over their flocks by night.Suddenly an angel of the Lord appeared to them, with the Glory of the Lord shining around them.As they were terrified,the angel said to them, “Don’t be afraid; I am here to give you good news, great joy for all the people.Today a Savior has been born to you in David’s town; he is the Messiah and the Lord.
Let this be a sign to you: you will find a baby wrapped in swaddling clothes and lying in a manger.”(Luke 2:6-12)

Let us think of God because of the difficult times. He became man not to live in prosperity. Let us pray that our brothers in difficult situations will have the Lord Jesus Christ as their inspiration.
Let us also pray for that our brothers will be contented with what God gave to them and learn how to suffer so they will experience the true meaning of serving Christ.

“Do not depend on money. Be content with having enough for today for God has said: I will never forsake you or abandon you.”(Hebrews 13:5)

Let us pray that our government will become a better example regarding employment and not corruption or stealing. They should follow the command of God and feel that the promise of God will give them hope so they will feel that God will not leave them.

4. The Presentation of Jesus to the Temple

“When the day came for the purification according to the law of Moses, they brought the baby up to Jerusalem to present him to the Lord, as it is written in the law of the Lord: Every firstborn male shall be consecrated to God.And they offered a sacrifice as ordered in the law of the Lord: a pair of turtledoves or two young pigeons.There lived in Jerusalem at this time a very upright and devout man named Simeon; the Holy Spirit was in him. He looked forward to the time when the Lord would comfort Israel,and he had been assured by the Holy Spirit that he would not die before seeing the Messiah of the Lord. So he was led into the Temple by the Holy Spirit at the time the parents brought the child Jesus, to do for him according to the custom of the Law. Simeon took the child in his arms and blessed God, saying,Now, O Lord, you can dismiss your servant in peace,for you have fulfilled your word and my eyes have seen your salvation, which you display for all the people to see.Here is the light you will reveal to the nations and the glory of your people Israel.His father and mother wondered at what was said about the child. Simeon blessed them and said to Mary, his mother, See him; he will be for the rise or fall of the multitudes of Israel. He shall stand as a sign of contradiction,while a sword will pierce your own soul. Then the secret thoughts of many may be brought to light.”(Luke 2:22-35)

Let us pray that all parents offer to God their children so that they will be guided by the Holy Spirit to grow up being obedient to their parents and become good examples wherever they go.

“Parents, do not treat your children in such a way as to make them angry. Instead, raise them with Christian discipline and instruction.”(Ephesians 6:2)

5. The Finding of Jesus in the Temple

“Every year the parents of Jesus went to Jerusalem for the Feast of the Passover, as was customary. And when Jesus was twelve years old, he went up with them according to the custom for this feast. After the festival was over, they returned, but the boy Jesus remained in Jerusalem and his parents did not know it.They thought he was in the company and after walking the whole day they looked for him among their relatives and friends.As they did not find him, they went back to Jerusalem searching for him, and on the third day they found him in the Temple, sitting among the teachers, listening to them and asking questions.And all the people were amazed at his understanding and his answers.His parents were very surprised when they saw him and his mother said to him, “Son, why have you done this to us? Your father and I were very worried while searching for you.Then he said to them, “Why were you looking for me? Do you not know that I must be in my Father’s house?” But they did not understand this answer.Jesus went down with them, returning to Nazareth, and he continued to be subject to them. As for his mother, she kept all these things in her heart.”(Luke 2:22-35)

Let us pray for our brothers that what they will not only look for richness in this world and material things but realize that they should look for the heart of God since this is where blessings come from and will never be exhausted.

“Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need.”(Matthew 6:33)

Let us pray that they look for Jesus with all their hearts.
Let us also pray that mothers will become like the Virgin Mary who think of the welfare of their children. They must become mothers who teach Christian discipline to all their offspring. They should not neglect their children to the best of their abilities

The Five Sorrowful Mysteries

1. The Agony of Jesus in the Garden

“Jesus came with them to a place called Gethsemane, and he said to his disciples, “Sit here while I go over to pray.He took Peter and the two sons of Zebedee along with him, and he began to be filled with anguish and distress.And he said to them, “My soul is filled with sorrow even to death. Remain here and stay awake with me.He went a little farther and fell to the ground, with his face touching the earth, and prayed, “Father, if it is possible, take this cup away from me. Yet not what I want, but what you want.”(Matthew 26:36-39)

Let us pray that all of us will understand that while serving God, we will be out to the test and we will feel sadness and pressure.

“For you have been given not only the privilege of trusting in Christ but also the privilege of suffering for him.”(Philippians 1:29)

Let us pray that we will be given blessings by God so we can be reminded and we will be diligent in praying since this is the only way so will not succumb to temptation and sadness.

2. The Scourging at the Pillar

“I am innocent of this man’s blood; see to it yourselves.” And all the people answered, “His blood be on us and on our children!” Then he released for them Barab’bas, and having scourged Jesus, delivered him to be crucified. (Matthew 27:24)

Let us pray for innocent people who are treated badly especially our brothers who work in other countries and are constantly maltreated.

“For God is pleased with you when you do what you know is right and patiently endure unfair treatment.”(1 Peter 2:19)

Let us pray that will be given strength so we can entrust to God all things especially those who are angry at us and condemn us despite the good things and intentions that we have.

3. The Crowning of Thorns

“The Roman soldiers took Jesus into the palace of the governor and the whole troop gathered around him. They stripped him and dressed him in a purple military cloak. Then, twisting a crown of thorns, they forced it onto his head, and placed a reed in his right hand. They knelt before Jesus and mocked him, saying, “Long life to the King of the Jews!They spat on him, took the reed from his hand and struck him on the head with it. When they had finished mocking him, they pulled off the purple cloak and dressed him in his own clothes again, and led him out to be crucified.”(Matthew 27:27-31)

Let us pray that all servants of God like us and those who plan to serve Jesus Christ will endure all trials and sufferings. Hopefully, we can live through these because of the inspiration from Christ.

“But rejoice insofar as you share Christ’s sufferings, that you may also rejoice and be glad when his glory is revealed.”(1 Peter 4:13)

4. The Carrying of the Cross

“Then Pilate handed Jesus over to them to be crucified.

They took charge of him.Bearing his own cross, Jesus went out of the city to what is called the Place of the Skull, in Hebrew: Golgotha.”(John 19:16-17)

Let us pray that all our brothers who carry the Cross and that they should not be ashamed of this and instead be proud that we are following Christ. For every Cross that we carry because of our temptations, we should realize that we are not alone when we are with Christ.

“As for me, may I never boast about anything except the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ. Because of that cross, my interest in this world has been crucified, and the world’s interest in me has also died.”(Galatians 6:14)

5. The Carrying of the Cross

“After this, Jesus, knowing that all was now finished, said (to fulfil the Scripture), “I thirst.” A jar full of sour wine stood there, so they put a sponge full of the sour wine on a hyssop branch and held it to his mouth. When Jesus had received the sour wine, he said, “It is finished”, and he bowed his head and gave up his spirit.Since it was the day of Preparation, and so that the bodies would not remain on the cross on the Sabbath (for that Sabbath was a high day), the Jews asked Pilate that their legs might be broken and that they might be taken away. So the soldiers came and broke the legs of the first, and of the other who had been crucified with him.But when they came to Jesus and saw that he was already dead, they did not break his legs. But one of the soldiers pierced his side with a spear, and at once there came out blood and water. He who saw it has borne witness—his testimony is true, and he knows that he is telling the truth—that you also may believe. For these things took place that the Scripture might be fulfilled: “Not one of his bones will be broken.” And again another Scripture says, “They will look on him whom they have pierced.”(John 19:28-37)

Let us pray that we learn how to get rid of fears from our hearts by following the desires of God and we will not be fearful of anything including death.

“For I fully expect and hope that I will never be ashamed, but that I will continue to be bold for Christ, as I have been in the past. And I trust that my life will bring honor to Christ, whether I live or die.”(Philippians 1:21)

Let us pray for our brothers who have not known Christ yet and find out that serving Christ will be forever and realize that we have to offer our lives to serve God until our last breath.

The Five Glorious Mysteries

1. The Resurrection of Jesus Christ

The angel said to the women, “Do not be afraid, for I know that you are looking for Jesus who was crucified. He is not here, for he is risen as he said. Come, see the place where they laid him.”(Matthew 28:5-6)

Let us pray that our brothers who have lost hope will think that there is an end to all sufferings because just like Christ we will be given a glorified body and all sickness, misery, and sadness will be gone and replaced by everlasting happiness.

“Yet what we suffer now is nothing compared to the glory he will reveal to us later.”(Romans 8:18)

2. The Ascension of Jesus to Heaven

“While He was blessing them, He parted from them and was carried up into heaven.”(Luke 24:51)

Let us pray that many people will realize that this world is only temporary and not to think of anything but to be able to enter the kingdom of Heaven.
Let us pray that we will be guided to do what makes God happy and that His desires will be fulfilled. We should also be given strength so that we can finally enter Heaven during the final part of our lives.

“Think about the things of heaven, not the things of earth.”(Colossians 3:2)

3. The Descent of the Holy Ghost

“When the day of Pentecost came, they were all together in one place. And suddenly out of the sky came a sound like a strong rushing wind and it filled the whole house where they were sitting. There appeared tongues as if of fire which parted and came to rest upon each one of them. All were filled with Holy Spirit and began to speak other languages, as the Spirit enabled them to speak.”(Acts 2:1-4)

Let us pray that we will be given the Holy Spirit which will guide us to discover the whole truth for out true humility and the real meaning of love. Let us pray for today’s youth asking for guidance from the Holy Spirit regarding their needs and problems.

“When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all truth. He will not speak on his own but will tell you what he has heard. He will tell you about the future.”(John 16:13)

4. The Assumption of our Blessed Mother into Heaven
It is clear that Hebrew 11:5 said Enoch became pleasing before he was taken by God.

“By faith Enoch was taken up so that he should not see death, and he was not found, because God had taken him. Now before he was taken he was commended as having pleased God.”(Hebrews 11:5, English Standard Version)

If Enoch was pleasing to God and brought to Heaven, what else is very pleasing to God?

“But the angel said to her, Do not be afraid, Mary. God is very pleased with you.”(Luke 1:30, New International Reader’s Version)

Like Enoch who was brought to Heaven because God liked him and Mama Mary who was also loved, let us pray that we can do things that make God happy.

“Carefully determine what pleases the Lord.”(Ephesians 5:10)

5. The Coronation of our Blessed Mother
If King Solomon was able to make his mother sit down beside him . 1 Kings 2:18-19 since he was a king, why can’t Jesus ask His mother to sit on the throne because he is the King of Kings?
He was given full authority by Heaven (Matthew 28:18). If a king like Solomon who was only given wisdom can make his mother to sit on the throne why can’t the source of all wisdom ask His mother to sit down on the throne?
If Bathsheba, who was a mother, was asked by Solomon to sit where he should be seated, why can’t Mary, who was given a great responsibility and did not go against Christ, cannot be asked to seat down on the throne?
Let us pray that our brothers will not seek high positions and glory. Instead, let God give us all the glory and bring us to where we should be. Let us also pray that we will be given big and numerous responsibilities and be given the grace to become more humble.

“But he gives us even more grace to stand against such evil desires. As the Scriptures say, God opposes the proud but favors the humble.”(James 4:6)

The Five Luminous Mysteries

1. The Baptism of Jesus
“As soon as he was baptized, Jesus came up from the water. At once, the heavens opened and he saw the Spirit of God come down like a dove and rest upon him.

At the same time a voice from heaven was heard, “This is my Son, the Beloved; he is my Chosen One.”(Matthew 3:16-17)

Let us pray that our brothers who live wealthy lives also appreciate those below them and recognize that poor people are also used by God as their brothers. They should look at the humility of Jesus as a good example and allowed John the Baptist to show the good example to all people.

“Humble yourselves before the Lord and he will raise you up.”(James 4:10)

Let us pray that people who seek glory and crave for high reputation must seek to become children o God since there is no better title more than this. It is better to be called this than President, Governor, Mayor or any other title and let God Himself introduce them.
2. The Baptism of Jesus

“Jesus was also invited to the wedding with his disciples.When all the wine provided for the celebration had been served and they had run out of wine, the mother of Jesus said to him, “They have no wine.Jesus replied, “Woman, your thoughts are not mine! My hour has not yet come.However his mother said to the servants, “Do whatever he tells you.”(John 2:2-5)

Let us pray for those who love each other so that they may think of the sanctity of marriage and God’s patience towards those who love each other.

“The will of God for you is to become holy and not to have unlawful sex. Let each of you behave towards his wife as a holy and respectful husband.”(1 Thessalonians 4:3-4)

3. The Proclamation of The Kingdom of God

He said, “The time has come; the kingdom of God is at hand. Change your ways and believe the Good News.”(Mark 1:15)

Let us pray that all people were not created simply to sleep, eat and work but to serve God and spread the Good News to all especially those who have not heard about Him yet.
They should realize that life is too short and while there is time, these should be preached to give warning to those who do not believe the word of God.

“Because I cannot boast of announcing the Gospel: I am bound to do it. Woe to me if I do not preach the Gospel!”(1 Corinthians 9:16)

Let us pray for our brothers who love doing wrong and those who do not believe in God or our brothers who rejected Christ. Hopefully God will knock on their hearts and that they repent and follow God.
4. The Transfiguration

“Six days later, Jesus took with him Peter and James and his brother John and led them up a high mountain where they were alone.Jesus’ appearance was changed before them: his face shone like the sun and his clothes became bright as light.Just then Moses and Elijah appeared to them, talking with Jesus.Peter spoke and said to Jesus, “Master, it is good that we are here. If you so wish, I will make three tents: one for you, one for Moses, and one for Elijah.Peter was still speaking when a bright cloud covered them in its shadow, and a voice from the cloud said, This is my Son, the Beloved, my Chosen One. Listen to him. On hearing the voice, the disciples fell to the ground, full of fear.”(Matthew 17:1-6)

Let us pray that our brothers will continue to serve God and will not stop like the servants of Christ who saw the glory of God.

“I race forward and run towards the goal,my eyes on the prize to which God has called us from above in Christ Jesus.”(Philippians 3:13-14)

May they be given grace to stay with God and His word and see the beautiful things given by God.

“If you remain in me and my words in you, you may ask whatever you want and it will be given to you.”(John 15:7)

5. The Institution of the Eucharist

“Jesus also took bread, and after giving thanks, he broke it and gave it to them saying, “This is my body which is given for you. Do this in remembrance of me.”(Luke 22:19)

The Eucharist is very important for those who receive.

“Those who eat this bread will live forever.”(John 6:58)

Let us remember that before we receive this, that we should not have any mortal sin since if we receive this and are not worthy, we will sin against God.

“Therefore, if anyone eats of the bread or drinks from the cup of the Lord unworthily, he sins against the body and blood of the Lord. Let each one, then, examine himself before eating of the bread and drinking from the cup.”(1 Corinthians 11:27-28)

Let us pray that our brothers who have received the Body of Christ will receive this with their hearts and not just their mouths. They should care for this and remind them to follow Christ in serving and becoming humble as well as follow the will of God.

Repetition of Prayers is against the Bible?

I was born and raised by a nominal Catholic Family. We never prayed a rosary together as a family. We never attended mass together. We are not a regular mass goer. My parents are just a typical Catholic during their early age and so we are. 

During my early age, I never experienced to be persecuted due to my beliefs in the Catholic Church. I finished elementary in a public school in Mindoro without experiencing such persecution. For that reason, I used to believe that the Catholic Church is indeed the True Church of Christ founded by Jesus. 

My parents enrolled me in a private institution run by Dominican Nuns from Roxas City during High School. From there, I learned most of the Catholic prayers like Our Father, Hail Mary, Glory be to the Father, (although I already know those prayers but not the English version). Memorizing the prayers is a must because we have a religion subject and during exam prayers are included, so regardless of your religious affiliation you are required to memorize the Catholic Prayers.

Our place in our Province is dominated by nominal Catholics. There was no single individual there who knows the Catholic Faith very well. We are all Catholic by name. Even the members of the Church Ministry there are also ignorant of the Catholic Faith. In our Brgy. (which was called Faithful, yes our Brgy was called Faithful) we only have two popular religion. The Catholic Church who has the most number and the "Iglesia ni Cristo -1914" who came next. 

Due to lack of knowledge of the real teachings of the Church, (our community is also very far from the town proper, it almost lies adjacent to Mt. Halcon so its not so easy to reached) as time goes by many other religious organization entered our community and the most memorable to me is the Church founded by Eliseo Soriano the "Members of Church of God International" or commonly known to us as "Ang Dating Daan". 

I can remember during our High School, they used to invite people (specially Catholics in our place because Catholics there are very easy to defeat in a debate)to their Bible exposition wherein you can ask what ever you want to ask about the Bible and they will answer it with verses. Fortunately, I never attended any of their expositions held in our place during that time. However, my classmates (mostly are my friends) who were able to attend, became heretics to the teachings of Catholic Church.

Form then on, the thing that I used to avoid which is to be persecuted because of my religion came into existence. Of course I used to ignore them, I never believe whatever they are saying. 

One of the most unforgettable persecution that I encountered with my classmates was about the Rosary. One afternoon during our lunch break one of my classmate ask me this question:

Classmate: "Alam mo Randel, may isa akong tanong na hindi mawala sa isip ko." 

Randel: "talaga? ano yun?"

Classmate: "Sabi kasi ng Ang Dating Daan, wala daw sa Bible ang Rosary, tapos bawal daw ang magdasal ng paulit ulit. Binasa pa nga nila sa Bible e, nakalimutan ko lang yung verse, pero sabi dun word for word "hwag magdadasal ng paulit ulit". 

During that time, I personally dont know why the Catholics are praying the rosary. I even don't understand why we need to do it everyday aside from the fact that its a command from our nun teachers. What had been my answer to my classmate is a simple statement that can be refuted easily.

Randel: e bakit ipinapagawa sa atin kung bawal? hindi naman siguro yan ipapagawa sa atin kung mali db? so may dahilan kung bakit ipinapagawa yan? at hindi yan masama.

I can feel that my classmate got more confused due to my statement but what can i do, I dont know how am I going to answer it. 

I finished High School without getting the answer to that question. Maybe you are asking: Why didn't you ask your nun teachers? We did. but we were not able to get the direct answer to the question.

Now let us know the truth. Did God really prohibit repetitions of prayers literally?

Let us first read the verse that they are using to accused the Catholic Church of violating God's command.

Matthew 6:7 ( King James Version)

But when ye pray, use not vain repetitions, as the heathen do: for they think that they shall be heard for their much speaking..

This is the verse that anti-Catholics are using to accused us of violating God's commandment.  Now let us study the verse further.

Let us all remember that the one speaking in this verse is Jesus himself. When Jesus said, "use not vain repetitions, as the heathen do: for they think that they shall be heard for their much speaking" (Matthew 6:7, NAB), He was referring to a belief of the pagans that a god would not listen to your prayer unless you used his correct title, and the title would change every day. Thus, the pagans would begin their prayer with every title they could think of in order to make sure their prayers would be heard (e.g., "O Great Zeus, O Master of Olympia, O Great Father Zeus. . . .") Jesus tells us this is vain because pagan gods don’t exist, and when we pray to God he hears all our prayers. We don’t have to worry about getting the right title.

In fact, Scripture gives us many examples of repetitive prayer. For example, in Matthew 26:36–46, Jesus prayed the same prayer three times. In Revelation 4:8, four living creatures are around and within the throne, and day and night they do not cease to say, "Holy, holy, holy, is the Lord God Almighty." And then there’s the tax collector in Luke 18:9–14 who is beating his breast repeatedly and praying, "God, be merciful to me, a sinner!" And let’s not forget Luke 11:1–4, where Jesus tells us how to pray: He gives us the Lord’s Prayer. Since most Christians pray the Lord’s Prayer from time to time, they are all "guilty" of repetitious prayer. But it is not vain prayer—after all; we merely are doing as Jesus taught us.

Any prayer can be prayed in vain. What makes a prayer efficacious is the attitude of the heart (cf. CCC 2559). And sadly, "If our heart is far from God, the words of prayer are in vain" (CCC 2562; cf. Matt. 15:8–9). 

Additionally, Because Matthew is the first book in the New Testament and the New Testament was Written in Greek.

Let us check this out...

In Greek:

proseuchomenoi de mE battologEsEte Hosper hoi ethnikoi dokousin gar hoti en tE polulogia autOn eisakousthEsontai

In the Greek scripture the word used is "battologEsEte".

The verb battologeo means to "stutter."

According to www.thefreedictionary.com (Stutter - A speech disorder characterized by spasmodic repetition of the initial consonant.)

The bible clearly states that This type of prayer is found in Hosea 7:14.

"They have not prayed to me sincerely, but instead they throw themselves down and wail as the heathen do. When they pray for grain and wine, they gash themselves like pagans. What rebels they are!"(Hosea 7:14)

I experience another persecution during college in the hand of the Iglesia ni Cristo members that converted two of my siblings. Those instance in my life lead me to study the Catholic Faith more deeper. 

And at present, I already part of those Catholic Apologist who are actively defending the Catholic Church in social medias such as Facebook and blogs.  Thank you.

If you are a Nominal Catholic who are willing to learn and defend the Mother Church. Help us by visiting 

The Splendor of the Church Website. Please like us also in Facebook.

Thanks.

-Randel Paul