God is amazing! He is the God of love and truth. Have you ever wanted to know more about God? This post should help give you a better understanding of who God is and a better awareness of some of the principles about Him to help you in your discipleship. All 31 principles about God in this post are from St. Luke’s Gospel.
What is a Principle?
A principle is like a guiding rule or fundamental that God has put into place that we can expect to be truthful over the course of time. These 31 principles about God from the Gospel were as true to the Apostles and Church Fathers as they are for us today.
How Were These Principles Determined?
Every one of the principles below are from the words of Christ. These are things Jesus said in the Gospel with His authority. In faith, we believe His eternal Word is true.
31 Amazing Principles About God from the Gospel of St. Luke
Chapter #1 God’s Church
The Church Endures on Earth
The Church continues to endure on earth today as it has throughout the ages. In faith, we believe the Catholic Church will always be with us until the end of time.
I am with you always, until the end of the age. Matthew 28:20b
The Church is Called Catholic
“The Church is called Catholic because it teaches fully and unfailingly all the doctrines which ought to be brought to men’s knowledge, whether concerned with visible or invisible things, with the realities of heaven or the things of earth.” + St. Cyril of Jerusalem, 315-386 A.D.
4 Distinguishing Marks of the Catholic Church
Christ established the Catholic Church with the following four (4) signs:
- The Church is One (Jn 10:16).
- The Church must be Holy (Mt 5:48)
- The Church is to be Catholic (Universal) (Mt 28:19)
- The Church must be Apostolic (Eph 2:20).
Glory Be
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen!
Principle #1
1. God’s Church is a House of Prayer
My house shall be a house of prayer. Luke 19:46a
The Church Welcomes All
The Church welcomes all people. Everyone is invited to enter into a covenant relationship with Christ and participate in the sacraments. The Church is holy and will always be a House of Prayer for all people, both the least and the greatest.
Welcome one another, then, as Christ welcomed you, for the glory of God. Romans 15:7
It is Written: Jesus Quotes a Verse from Isaiah
Look at the Gospel verse one more time, “My house shall be a house of prayer,” and you will see Jesus is referring to a verse from the Old Testament book of Isaiah.
Them I will bring to my holy mountain and make them joyful in my house of prayer; Their burnt offerings and their sacrifices will be acceptable on my altar, For my house shall be called a house of prayer for all peoples. Isaiah 56:7
The Church is a House of Prayer
There is basis for this biblical principle in all four Gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke, John).
Reference | Description | Verse |
---|---|---|
1. House of Prayer | My house / a house of prayer… | Mt 21:13 |
2. House of Prayer | My house / a house of prayer… | Mk 11:17 |
3. House of Prayer | My house / a house of prayer… | Lk 19:46 |
4. Zeal / House | Zeal for his Father’s house… | Jn 2:17 |
Principle #2
2. Christ is the Church Cornerstone
But He looked at them and asked, “What then does this scripture passage mean: ‘The stone which the builders rejected has become the cornerstone’? Luke 20:17
Christ the Son is the Cornerstone
Christ the Son is the cornerstone of the Church. He is the foundation stone, chosen by God, that unites Israel and the Gentile nations under a new covenant in His blood.
“This cup is the new covenant in My blood…” Luke 22:20b
Jesus Quotes a Psalm
As the Church endures on earth, Christ will be the cornerstone that holds it in place.
The stone the builders rejected has become the cornerstone. By the LORD has this been done; it is wonderful in our eyes. Psalms 118:22-23
10 Verses About Christ the Cornerstone
Reference | Description | Verse |
---|---|---|
1. God’s plan | Who laid its cornerstone… | Jb 38:6 |
2. Stone rejected | Stone rejected / become the cornerstone… | Ps 118:22 |
3. Precious stone | A precious cornerstone / sure foundation… | Is 28:16 |
4. Disbelief / ruin | They will not take from you a cornerstone… | Jer 51:26 |
5. Stone rejected | Stone rejected / become the cornerstone… | Mt 21:42 |
6. Stone rejected | Stone rejected / become the cornerstone… | Mk 12:10 |
7. Stone rejected | Stone rejected / become the cornerstone… | Lk 20:17 |
8. Stone rejected | Stone rejected / become the cornerstone… | Act 4:11 |
9. Precious stone | A cornerstone, chosen and precious… | 1 Pt 2:6 |
10. Stone rejected | Stone rejected / become the cornerstone… | 1 Pt 2:7 |
Principle #3
3. The Eucharist is the Body of Christ
Then he took the bread, said the blessing, broke it, and gave it to them, saying, “This is my body, which will be given for you; do this in memory of me.” Luke 22:19
The Eucharist is God
The Eucharist is the source and summit of the Catholic faith. As Catholics, we believe that the Eucharist is the body, blood, soul, and divinity of Jesus Christ.
CCC 1324 The Eucharist is “the source and summit of the Christian life…in the blessed Eucharist is contained the whole spiritual good of the Church, namely Christ…
Jesus is Alive in the Eucharist
The Real Presence: Eucharistic miracles have occurred throughout the ages of the Church. A recent Eucharistic miracle occurred at a church in Guadalajara, Mexico.
St. Paul Believed in the Eucharist
St. Paul, the greatest missionary saint in the history of the Church, believed in the Eucharist. St. Paul wrote about the Eucharist in his book to the Corinthians.
Reference | Description | Verse |
---|---|---|
Participate | Bread we break / body of Christ… | 1 Cor 10:16 |
Receive worthily | Whoever eats the bread unworthily… | 1 Cor 11:27 |
The Eucharist Means “Thanksgiving”
The Eucharist is an act of thanksgiving to God. The Greek word for the word Eucharist is eucharistia. Was St. Paul celebrating the Eucharist with his companions?
“Not a hair of the head of anyone of you will be lost.” When he said this, he [St. Paul] took bread, gave thanks to God in front of them all, broke it, and began to eat. Acts 27:34b-35
Recommended Reading About the Eucharist
If you’re still not convinced about the Real Presence of Jesus Christ in the Eucharist, I recommend reading either of these books. Both books are a great read. You might even try reading them before the Blessed Sacrament or during Eucharistic Adoration.
Joan Carroll Cruz
Eucharistic Miracles and Eucharistic Phenomena in the Lives of the Saints
Dr. Brant Pitre
Jesus and the Jewish Roots of the Eucharist – Unlocking the Secrets of the Last Supper
“To ensure that the memory of so great a gift would abide with us forever, Christ left his body as food and his blood as drink for the faithful to consume in the form of bread and wine.” + St. Thomas Aquinas
Principle #4
4. The Eucharist is the Blood of Christ
And likewise the cup after they had eaten, saying, “This cup is the new covenant in my blood, which will be shed for you. Luke 22:20
The Sacrament of Our Redemption
The Eucharist is the Body and Blood of Christ. The Eucharist is the sacrament of our redemption. The priest consecrates the bread and wine during Mass into the body and blood of Jesus Christ. Jesus shed his blood for us on the cross to obtain forgiveness for our sins. The blood of Christ is an unblemished offering made to God on our behalf.
Christ entered once for all into the sanctuary, not with the blood of goats and calves but with his own blood, thus obtaining eternal redemption. Hebrews 9:12
The Eucharist is the Blood of the New Covenant
Christ instituted the Eucharist at the Last Supper, the New Passover, with His disciples. Every time we attend Mass, the wine is consecrated into Jesus’s blood.
CCC 1846 The Eucharist is the sacrament of redemption: “This is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins.”
11 Blood of Christ Verses
Blood of: Christ (5), His Cross (1), Jesus (1), the Lamb (2), the Lord (1), His Son (1).
# | Reference | Description | Verse |
---|---|---|---|
1 | Cup | Cup of blessing / participation / blood of Christ… | 1 Cor 10:16 |
2 | Reconcile | Far off / become near by the blood of Christ… | Eph 2:13 |
3 | Pure | Blood of Christ / eternal spirit / unblemished… | Heb 9:14 |
4 | Sanctify | Sprinkling with the blood of Jesus Christ… | 1 Pt 1:2 |
5 | Pure | Precious blood of Christ / unblemished lamb… | 1 Pt 1:19 |
6 | Reconcile | Making peace by the blood of His cross… | Col 1:20 |
7 | Purified | Blood of Jesus / confidence of sanctuary entrance… | Heb 10:19 |
8 | Survive | Washed their robes white / blood of the Lamb… | Rev 7:14 |
9 | Conquer | They conquered him by the blood of the Lamb… | Rev 12:11 |
10 | Unworthily | Drinks…unworthily / answer for blood of the Lord… | 1 Cor 11:27 |
11 | Cleanses | Blood of His Son Jesus cleanses us from all sin… | 1 Jn 1:7 |
25 Precious Blood of Jesus Verses
# | Reference | Description | Verse |
---|---|---|---|
1 | Agony | His sweat became like drops of blood… | Lk 22:44 |
2 | Church | Lance in His side / blood and water flowed out… | Jn 19:34 |
3 | Church | The one who came through water and blood.. | 1 Jn 5:6 |
4 | Church | Spirit / water / blood / the three are one accord… | 1 Jn 5:8 |
5 | Consecrate | Jesus / consecrate / by His own blood… | Heb 13:12 |
6 | Covenant | Cup is the new covenant in My blood / shed… | Lk 22:20 |
7 | Covenant | This cup is the new covenant in My blood… | 1 Cor 11:25 |
8 | Covenant | Son of God / covenant blood / He was consecrated… | Heb 10:29 |
9 | Covenant | The sprinkled blood / more eloquent / Abel… | Heb 12:24 |
10 | Eucharist | Unless you eat / the Son of Man / drink His blood… | Jn 6:53 |
11 | Eucharist | Eat My flesh / drink My blood / has eternal life… | Jn 6:54 |
12 | Eucharist | My flesh is true food, and My blood is true drink… | Jn 6:55 |
13 | Eucharist | Drinks My blood / remains in Me and I in him… | Jn 6:56 |
14 | Jesus | This Man’s blood… | Mt 27:24 |
15 | Jesus | His blood… | Mt 27:25 |
16 | Jesus | This Man’s blood… | Act 5:28 |
17 | Jesus | He shared in blood and flesh… | Heb 2:14 |
18 | Innocent | Innocent blood… | Mt 27:4 |
19 | Judgment | He wore a cloak that had been dipped in blood… | Rev 19:13 |
20 | Sacrifice | Church of God / He acquired with His own blood… | Act 20:28 |
21 | Sacrifice | God sent / expiation, through faith, by His blood… | Rom 3:25 |
22 | Sacrifice | We are now justified by His blood… | Rom 5:9 |
23 | Sacrifice | In Him we have redemption by His blood… | Eph 1:7 |
24 | Sacrifice | Him / loves us / freed us from sins by His blood… | Rev 1:5 |
25 | Sacrifice | Slain / with your blood you purchased for God… | Rev 5:9 |
Principle #5
5. Unbelieving Kingdoms Will Fall
Everyone who falls on that stone will be dashed to pieces; and it will crush anyone on whom it falls.” Luke 20:18
Pray for Unbelievers
We are all sinners, but there are unbelievers who simply refuse to allow God in their lives. There are kingdoms that reject God. Christ says they will stumble and fall.
Unbelievers and Evil Empires Fall
Reference | Description | Verse |
---|---|---|
Unbelievers | He shall be a snare, a stone for injury… | Is 8:14-15 |
Empires | Break into pieces all of these kingdoms.. | Dn 2:44-45 |
Unbelievers | A stone that will make people stumble… | 1 Pt 2:8 |
Unbelievers | A rock that will make people fall… | Rom 9:33 |
We Believe
We believe that the Catholic Church is the Church of the New Covenant, with Christ being the cornerstone. We put our faith and trust in Christ for eternal salvation.
Without faith it is impossible to please God…Hebrews 11:6
Those Who Accept Christ…
Those who accept Christ, the cornerstone of the Church, find truth and life in God.
…I am laying a stone in Zion, a stone that has been tested, A precious cornerstone as a sure foundation; whoever puts faith in it will not waver. Isaiah 28:16
Those Who Reject Christ…
Those who reject Christ, the cornerstone of the Church, will receive God’s wrath.
Whoever disobeys the Son will not see life, but the wrath of God remains upon him. John 3:36b
Chapter #2 The God of Love
God Loves Us
Our God is a God of love! He is love itself, and He has loved us with an everlasting love. His love is eternal, and He will always love us. God loves saints and sinners alike.
“God loves us; for the sake of our salvation, He is generous toward us.” + St. Cyprian
16 Scripture Verses about God’s Love for Us
“God’s very being is love…CCC 221“
# | Reference | Description | Verse |
---|---|---|---|
1 | God is love | For God is love… | 1 Jn 4:8 |
2 | Eternal love | With age-old love I have loved you… | Jer 31:3 |
3 | Constant love | My love shall never fall away from you… | Isa 54:10 |
4 | God loves us | I have called you by name: You are mine… | Isa 43:1 |
5 | God loves us | God loved the world / gave His only Son… | Jn 3:16 |
6 | God loves us | It was because the Lord loved you… | Dt 7:8 |
7 | God loves us | The Lord set His heart to love them… | Dt 10:15 |
8 | God loves us | You are precious in My eyes… | Isa 43:4 |
9 | God loves us | When Israel was a child I loved them… | Hos 11:1 |
10 | God loves us | With bands of love I fostered them… | Hos 11:4 |
11 | God’s love/mercy | With enduring love I take pity on you… | Isa 54:8 |
12 | God’s love/mercy | Because of His love and pity… | Isa 63:9 |
13 | The love of God | The love of God / poured in our hearts… | Rom 5:5 |
14 | God’s love proven | God proves His love for us… | Rom 5:8 |
15 | God’s love perfected | The love of God / perfected in Him… | 1 Jn 2:5 |
16 | God’s love prepared | God has prepared / who love Him… | 1 Cor 2:9 |
God is Love
God encourages us to love one another because God is love. St. John tells us plainly in his 1st Letter that if we do not love, we do not know God, because God is love.
God is love. 1 John 4:8b
Catechism of God’s Love
The catechism teaches us that God’s love for us is like a father’s love for his son. God’s love is stronger than a mother’s love for her children. God’s love for his people is like the love a bridegroom has for his bride. Despite our sins, God loves us and is merciful.
Reference | Description | CCC |
---|---|---|
Love God | The LORD is God / love Him… | 201 |
Love God | Jesus affirms / must love God… | 202 |
God is love | Abounding in steadfast love… | 210 |
God is love | He keeps steadfast love… | 211 |
God is love | His works / goodness / love… | 214 |
God is love | His sheer gratuitous love… | 218 |
God is love | His love will be victorious… | 219 |
God is love | God’s love is “everlasting”… | 220 |
God is love | God’s very being is love… | 221 |
Principle #6
6. No One is Good but God Alone
Jesus answered him, “Why do you call me good? No one is good but God alone. Luke 18:19
God is Good
God is good from eternity to eternity. Nobody in the past, present, or future will be as good as God. We are the creatures. God is the Creator. We are the drop. God is the ocean. We are sinners. God is holy. God is our joy. We should always give God thanks.
Give Thanks to the LORD, for He is Good
God | Description | Verse |
---|---|---|
God is good | Good indeed is the LORD… | Ps 100:5 |
God is good | Give thanks to the LORD, who is good… | Ps 106:1 |
God is good | Give thanks to the LORD, for He is good… | Ps 107:1 |
God is good | The LORD / great good done for you… | Ps 116:12 |
God is good | Give thanks to the LORD, for He is good… | Ps 118:1 |
God is good | Praise the LORD, for the LORD is good… | Ps 135:3 |
God is good | Praise the LORD, for He is good… | Ps 136:1 |
God is good | Give thanks to the LORD, for He is good… | 1 Chr 16:34 |
God is good | Praise the LORD, who is good… | 2 Chr 5:13 |
God is good | Praising the LORD, who is good… | 2 Chr 7:3 |
God is good | Thanksgiving to the LORD, for He is good… | Ezr 3:11 |
God is good | The LORD is good; God’s love endures forever… | Jer 33:11 |
No One is Good but God Alone
“God is unique, there is only one God. CCC 200“
Hear, O Israel! The LORD is our God, the LORD alone! Therefore, you shall love the LORD, your God, with your whole heart, and with your whole being, and with your whole strength. Deuteronomy 6:5
Principle #7
7. God’s Holy Spirit is Active
If you then, who are wicked, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will the Father in heaven give the holy Spirit to those who ask him?” Luke 11:13
God’s Holy Spirit is Active in Discipleship
God’s Holy Spirit is active in His disciples. Think of the saints throughout the ages that have given witness to the Holy Spirit working through them. Some of the greatest saints experienced radical conversions such as St. Augustine and St. Francis of Assisi.
The Joint Mission of the Son and the Spirit
Reference | Description | CCC |
---|---|---|
Spirit of the Son | The Father has sent into our hearts… | 689 |
Spirit Sent to Believers | Glorified Christ can send the Spirit… | 690 |
The Gift of God
How God’s distributes the gifts of the Holy Spirit to us is a mystery, but as Christian disciples, we experience the flow of His graces upon us throughout our lives.
“The gift of God is the Holy Spirit.” + St. Augustine
Pray for the Holy Spirit
The saints of the Gospel were filled with the Holy Spirit: John the Baptist, his mother Elizabeth, his father Zechariah, the prophet Simeon. Christ too was not only filled with the Holy Spirit, but He also gave us assurance that if we pray and stay in Him and His Word, we will be guided by the Spirit. May the Holy Spirit lead and guide you.
Reference | Description | Verse |
---|---|---|
John the Baptist | He will be filled with the Holy Spirit… | Lk 1:15 |
Elizabeth | Elizabeth, filled with the Holy Spirit… | Lk 1:41 |
Zechariah | Zechariah / father / filled with the Holy Spirit… | Lk 1:67 |
Simeon | Simeon / Holy Spirit was upon him… | Lk 2:25 |
Sacrament | He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit… | Lk 3:16 |
Christ | Holy Spirit descended upon Him / like a dove… | Lk 3:22 |
Christ | Filled with the Holy Spirit / Holy Spirit led Him… | Lk 4:1 |
Prayer | Father in heaven / give Holy Spirit / ask Him… | Lk 11:13 |
Disciple | Holy Spirit will teach you / what you should say… | Lk 12:12 |
Principle #8
8. God Gives Us the Kingdom
Do not be afraid any longer, little flock, for your Father is pleased to give you the kingdom. Luke 12:32
A Return on the Kingdom
God is pleased to give His disciples a plentiful return on the Kingdom of God both in this life, and in the life to come. The return is received when we exchange our former way of life for the divine live of God, imitating and following Christ in all things.
Imitation of Christ
Be imitators of God, as beloved children. Ephesians 5:1
The kingdom of God is communion with the Triune God: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. If we want to imitate Christ, we have to know Him, and we do this by reading the Word.
“There is only one God, brethren, and we learn about Him only from Sacred Scripture.” + St. Hippolytus
Fullness of the Return
The fullness of this return we hope to experience is eternal life with Christ in heaven.
He said to them, “Amen, I say to you, there is no one who has given up house or wife or brothers or parents or children for the sake of the kingdom of God who will not receive back an overabundant return in this present age and eternal life in the age to come.” Luke 18:29-30
18 Compelling Verses About the Kingdom of God
Reference | Description | Verse |
---|---|---|
1. Rich/hard enter | Easier for a camel to pass thru eye of a needle… | Mt 19:24 |
2. Unfruitful | Kingdom of God will be taken away from you… | Mt 21:43 |
3. Repent/believe | The kingdom of God is at hand… | Mk 1:15 |
4. Stop sinning | If eye causes you to sin / better to enter one eye… | Mk 9:47 |
5. Child/humility | Will not accept kingdom like child/ will not… | Mk 10:15 |
6. Rich / hard | How hard it is for those / wealth to enter… | Mk 10:23 |
7. Proclaim | I must proclaim the good news of the kingdom… | Lk 4:43 |
8. Poor enter | Blessed are you poor / kingdom of God is yours… | Lk 6:20 |
9. Enter/struggle | Everyone who enters kingdom / with violence… | Lk 16:16 |
10. Like child | Does not accept kingdom like child/ will not… | Lk 18:17 |
11. Rich / hard | Hard it is for those / wealth to enter… | Lk 18:24 |
12. Rich / hard | Easier / camel / pass thru / needle… | Lk 18:25 |
13. Give up all | Given up everything for the sake of the kingdom… | Lk 18:29 |
14. Baptism | Can’t enter / without being born of water/spirit… | Jn 3:5 |
15. Enter/struggle | Undergo many hardships to enter the kingdom… | Act 14:22 |
16. Joy/Holy Spirit | Kingdom of God / peace, joy, Holy Spirit… | Rom 14:17 |
17. Cannot enter | Flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom… | 1 Cor 15:50 |
18. Cannot enter | Envy, drinking bouts, orgies, etc. cannot enter… | Gal 5:21 |
Principle #9
9. God Heals the Afflicted
Jesus said to them in reply, “Those who are healthy do not need a physician, but the sick do. Luke 5:31
Afflicted People Need Healing
Afflicted people are in need of God’s healing. We are all sinners and susceptible to the sickness of sin. For some, sin is a sickness, while for others, sin a ravaging disease. Jesus is the divine physician who seeks to heal our infirmities within. Praise God!
I saw their ways, but I will heal them. I will lead them and restore full comfort to them and to those who mourn for them. Isaiah 57:18
This principle remains constant. Christ sought out sinners and healed them just as He does with us today, and He will continue to seek those who are in need of His mercy.
“Lord, you know my ignorance and my weakness; teach me and heal me.” + St. Augustine
18 Verses About Jesus Healing Afflicted People
It should be noted for families in the spiritual warfare of today that in Matthew 15:28, it is the mother who seeks Jesus to heal her daughter from a demon, and in Luke 9:42, the father seeks Jesus to heal his son from a demon. Parents’ prayers are powerful!
Reference | Description | Verse |
---|---|---|
1. Centurion | At that hour the centurion’s servant was healed… | Mt 8:13 |
2. The sick | Those who touched Jesus’ cloak tassel / healed… | Mt 14:36 |
3. Exorcism | Her daughter was healed from that hour… | Mt 15:28 |
4. Disease | Her body was healed of her affliction… | Mk 5:29 |
5. The sick | Those who touched Jesus’ cloak tassel / healed… | Mk 6:56 |
6. Divine | Power of God was with Him for healing… | Lk 5:17 |
7. Healed | Came to Him / healed of their diseases… | Lk 6:18 |
8. Crowd | Power came forth / He healed them all… | Lk 6:19 |
9. Woman | She had been healed immediately… | Lk 8:47 |
10. Crowds | He healed those who needed to be cured… | Lk 9:11 |
11. Exorcism | Jesus rebuked unclean spirit / healed the boy… | Lk 9:42 |
12. Delivered | I cast out demons / I perform healings today… | Lk 13:32 |
13. Man | He took the man / healed and dismissed him… | Lk 14:4 |
14. Leper | He had been healed / returned glorifying God… | Lk 17:15 |
15. Servant | Jesus touched servant’s ear / healed him… | Lk 22:51 |
16. Man | The man who was healed / Jesus slipped away… | Jn 5:13 |
17. Holy Name | In His Name this mans stands before you healed… | Act 4:10 |
18. Faith | St. Paul saw that he had the faith to be healed… | Act 14:9 |
Principle #10
10. God is Kind to the Wicked
But rather, love your enemies and do good to them, and lend expecting nothing back; then your reward will be great and you will be children of the Most High, for He himself is kind to the ungrateful and the wicked. Luke 6:35
God is Kind to All
God is kind to the good and the wicked, the grateful and the ungrateful. The sun and the rain are shared with all. God is patient with everyone to repent. If we follow Him and imitate Him, we have a hope to be exalted with the Most High God in heaven.
“The Lord is gracious and merciful and prefers the conversion of a sinner rather than his death.” + St. Jerome
40 Verses about God’s Kindness and Mercy
# | Reference | Description | Verse |
---|---|---|---|
1 | Kindness | Blessed be the LORD / His kindness and fidelity… | Gn 24:27 |
2 | Merciful | God gracious and merciful / love and fidelity… | Ex 34:6 |
3 | Kindness | Slow to anger / abounding in kindness… | Nm 14:18 |
4 | Merciful | God is a merciful God / will not abandon you… | Dt 4:31 |
5 | Kindness | May you show me the kindness of the LORD… | 1 Sm 20:14 |
6 | Merciful | Lord God / awesome, strong / just, merciful… | 2 Mc 1:24 |
7 | Merciful | Blessed are you merciful God!… | Tob 3:11 |
8 | Mercy | Those who fear you, you will show mercy… | Jdt 16:15 |
9 | Mercy | Let your face shine / save me in your mercy… | Ps 31:17 |
10 | Mercy | May your mercy Lord be upon us / hope in you… | Ps 33:22 |
11 | Kindness | I will pray to you / in your kindness / answer me… | Ps 69:14 |
12 | Merciful | Good and forgiving / merciful to all… | Ps 86:5 |
13 | Merciful | Merciful and gracious / slow to anger… | Ps 103:8 |
14 | Merciful | Ponder the merciful deeds of the LORD… | Ps 107:43 |
15 | Mercy | Lord, my God, save me in your mercy… | Ps 109:25 |
16 | Merciful | Gracious and merciful is the LORD… | Ps 111:4 |
17 | Mercy | His mercy for us is strong / faithfulness… | Ps 117:2 |
18 | Merciful | The Lord is gracious and merciful… | Ps 145:8 |
19 | Merciful | The Lord is compassionate and merciful… | Sir 2:11 |
20 | Mercies | The mercies of the LORD / His kindness… | Sir 51:8 |
21 | Mercy | His mercy and His many loving deeds… | Is 63:7 |
22 | Merciful | I will not remain angry with you / I am merciful… | Jer 3:12 |
23 | Kindness | Continue kindness / thru a 1,000 generations… | Jer 32:18 |
24 | Kindness | Deal with us in your kindness and great mercy… | Dn 3:42 |
25 | Merciful | For He is gracious and merciful… | Jl 2:13 |
26 | Kindness | Slow to anger / abounding in kindness… | Jon 4:2 |
27 | Mercy | His mercy from age to age / those who fear Him… | Lk 1:50 |
28 | Mercy | Because of the tender mercy of our God… | Lk 1:78 |
29 | Merciful | Be merciful just as your Father is merciful… | Lk 6:36 |
30 | Merciful | And prayed, “O God, be merciful to me a sinner…” | Lk 18:13 |
31 | Kindness | The kindness of God / lead you to repentance… | Rom 2:4 |
32 | Kindness | God’s kindness / remain in His kindness… | Rom 11:22 |
33 | Kindness | In His kindness to us in Christ Jesus… | Eph 2:7 |
34 | Kindness | Put on as God’s chosen ones / kindness, humility… | Col 3:12 |
35 | Mercifully | I was once / an arrogant man / mercifully treated… | 1 Tm 1:13 |
36 | Kindness | Kindness and generous love of God / appeared… | Ti 3:4 |
37 | Mercy | Approach the throne of grace to receive mercy… | Heb 4:16 |
38 | Merciful | The Lord is compassionate and merciful… | Jas 5:11 |
39 | Mercy | Blessed be the God / of Lord Jesus / great mercy… | 1 Pt 1:3 |
40 | Mercy | Keep in love of God / wait for the mercy of Jesus… | Jude 1:21 |
St. Justin Martyr’s Prayer
God gives us the grace of the sun and rain in our hearts and lives just as He has with everyone throughout the ages. It is up to us to cooperate with what He gives us.
” We pray for you that you might experience the mercy of Christ. He instructed us to pray for our enemies, when he said, “Be kind and merciful, even as your heavenly Father is merciful.” We can observe that almighty God is kind and merciful, causing his sun to shine on the ungrateful and on the just and sending rain to both the holy and the evil. All of them, he has told us, he will judge.” + St. Justin Martyr
Chapter #3 The God of Mathematics
God Sees and Calculates Everything
“God sees everything clearly, nothing escapes his vigilance, be it calculation, thought, or some secret desire of the heart.” + St. Polycarp
The God of Numbers
God is love. He is also the God of numbers. He knows everything infinitely. He is aware of everything infinitely. He knows when we lie down, and when we get up. He counts our steps. He knows our thoughts. Have confidence in God in your life. He is with you!
God Knows Everything About Us
Reference | Description | Verse |
---|---|---|
Sees you stand or sit | I know when you stand or sit… | 2 Kgs 19:27 |
Looks into your heart | The Lord looks into the heart… | 1 Sm 16:7 |
Heart / thoughts | Searches hearts / understands thoughts… | 1 Chr 28:9 |
Tests hearts / integrity | Puts hearts to the test / pleased integrity… | 1 Chr 29:17 |
The Lord is with you | Lord is with you when you are with Him… | 2 Chr 15:2 |
Knows what you know | What you know I also know… | Jb 13:2 |
Your steps counted | You would count my steps… | Jb 14:16 |
Knows your way | He knows my way… | Jb 23:10 |
All of your ways seen | Does He not see all my ways… | Jb 31:4 |
Ways and steps seen | For His eyes are upon our ways… | Jb 34:21 |
Observes mankind | From heaven looks down / observes… | Ps 33:13 |
Tests your heart | You tested us, O God… | Ps 66:10 |
Hidden sins seen | Our hidden sins / light of your face… | Ps 90:8 |
Knows your thoughts | You understand my thoughts from afar… | Ps 139:2 |
Knows in advance | My days shaped before one came to be… | Ps 139:16 |
Sifts thru travels / rest | You sift through my travels and rest… | Ps 139:3 |
Paths surveyed | All their paths He surveys… | Prv 5:21 |
Watches everything | Eyes of the Lord are in everyplace… | Prv 15:3 |
Reads your heart | Open before the Lord / hearts of mortals… | Prv 15:11 |
Knows your deeds | Searcher of hearts knows… | Prv 24:12 |
Sees all works | Every work / hidden / good or bad… | Eccl 12:14 |
Sees all things | Mighty in power / sees all things… | Sir 15:18 |
Knows your deeds | He understands every human deed… | Sir 15:19 |
Judges your deeds | Judges people / their deeds… | Sir 16:12 |
Observes your steps | Observe every step taken… | Sir 23:19 |
Tests / refines you | Refined you / tested you / in affliction… | Is 48:10 |
Works / thoughts | For I know their works / thoughts… | Is 66:18 |
Knows / sees you | Lord, you know me, you see me… | Jer 12:3 |
Explores the mind | Lord / explores the mind / tests hearts | Jer 17:10 |
Sees mind / heart | Lord / test the just / sees mind / heart… | Jer 20:12 |
Has plans for you | I know / plans I have in mind for you… | Jer 29:11 |
Eyes on all mortals | Whose eyes are fixed / on mortals… | Jer 32:19 |
Remembers all sin | I remember all their wickedness… | Hos 7:2 |
Sees you in secret | Your Father who sees in secret… | Mt 6:4 |
Sees you in secret | Your Father who sees in secret… | Mt 6:6 |
Thoughts known | Jesus knew what they were thinking… | Mt 9:4 |
Thoughts known | He know what they were thinking… | Mt 12:25 |
Intentions known | He realized their intentions… | Lk 6:8 |
Thoughts known | He knew their thoughts… | Lk 11:17 |
Hairs counted | Hairs of your head / been counted… | Lk 12:7 |
Life-span known | Can anyone of you add a moment… | Lk 12:25 |
Knows your heart | God knows your hearts… | Lk 16:15 |
Knows His sheep | Good shepherd / I know mine… | Jn 10:14 |
Knows all hearts | Lord / knows the hearts of all… | Act 1:24 |
Knows your heart | God, who knows the heart… | Acts 15:8 |
Knows our works | The work of each will come to light… | 1 Cor 3:13 |
Everything exposed | Everything exposed to the eyes of God… | Heb 4:13 |
Tests your faith | Genuineness of your faith / tested by fire… | 1 Pt 1:7 |
Knows everything | Greater than our hearts / knows everything… | 1 Jn 3:20 |
Principle #11
11. Christ Controls All Spiritual Warfare
Even the hairs of your head have all been counted. Do not be afraid. You are worth more than many sparrows. Luke 12:7
Christ Controls All Spiritual Warfare
Christ controls all spiritual warfare down to the minutia. The finest hairs, fractions of a second, and everything that exists in the entire cosmos are under Christ’s authority.
All power in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Matthew 28:18b
Learn About Christ’s Authority
Learning about Christ’s authority and the structure of spiritual authority should give you consolation in your spiritual warfare. The devil and his demons are not running around unchecked. Nothing happens without Christ first allowing it to happen.
Example of God’s Authority in Salvation History
The LORD will pass over that door and not let the destroyer come into your houses to strike you down. Exodus 12:23b
Hierarchy of Spiritual Authority (Examples)
- Christ’s Spiritual Authority ——> Over the cosmos
- Pope’s Spiritual Authority ——-> Over the planet
- Bishop’s Spiritual Authority —–> Over his diocese
- Priest’s Spiritual Authority ——> Over his flock
- Father’s Spiritual Authority —–> Over his wife and children
- Mother’s Spiritual Authority —-> Over her children
- Baptismal Spiritual Authority —> Over oneself and temporal goods
“The Catholic Church has understood that the full authority to command demons was given to the Twelve Apostles, therefore a priest needs Apostolic authority given to him by a bishop before he engages in a battle with a demon. Of course a bishop, cardinal, or pope can do an exorcism at any time.” Source: St. Paul Center
Hairs on Your Head
Even the hairs on your head have been counted. Luke 12:7a
What a brilliant example given to us by an all knowing God. The reason why is because we lose an average of 50 to 100 hairs a day. If God knows the exact count at any given point in time, He knows what is going on with you and what you need for salvation. Even when life seems chaotic and out of control, have faith that God is with you.
“The Lord knows what He is doing.” + St. Augustine
Principle #12
12. God’s Word is 100% Valid
It is easier for heaven and earth to pass away than for the smallest part of a letter of the law to become invalid. Luke 16:17
The Law of the Lord
The Church believes God’s law is and will always be valid and perfect. Just as there is no way for even the slightest amount of Christ’s glory to pass away, neither can the slightest part of the law of the LORD pass away. God’s Word is trustworthy.
The law of the LORD is perfect, refreshing the soul. The decree of the LORD is trustworthy. Psalms 19:8a
The Word of God
The Word of God endures forever. For all generations, the Word remains true.
The grass withers, the flower wilts, but the word of our God stands forever. Isaiah 40:8
Christ Is the Messiah
The life of Christ, His teachings, sufferings, death, resurrection, and glory bring about the fulfillment of the law of the LORD. The risen Christ provided interpretation to His disciples, Cleopas and the unnamed disciple, while walking on the road to Emmaus.
Then beginning with Moses and all the prophets, He interpreted to them what referred to Him in all the scriptures. Luke 24:27
Principle #13
13. God’s Word is 100% Eternal
Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will not pass away. Luke 21:33
Sacred Scripture
Just as Christ controls all aspects of spiritual warfare, He also inspires every word of Sacred Scripture. The Word of God is with us for every season and every time, place, and need throughout the ages and for all of eternity, outlasting heaven and earth.
All scripture is inspired by God. 2 Timothy 3:16a
The Word is From God’s Eternal Throne
Your all powerful Word from heaven’s royal throne leapt into the doomed land. Wisdom 18:15
16 Notable Verses about the Word of God
Reference | Description | Verse |
---|---|---|
1. Listen | Crowd listening to Jesus / the Word of God… | Lk 5:1 |
2. Seed | The seed is the Word of God… | Lk 8:11 |
3. Family | My family hears the Word of God / acts on it… | Lk 8:21 |
4. Blessed | Blessed who hear Word of God / observe it… | Lk 11:28 |
5. Holy Spirit | Filled with Holy Spirit / boldly spoke Word of God… | Act 4:31 |
6. Don’t neglect | It’s not right for us to neglect the Word of God… | Act 6:2 |
7. Evangelize | Word of God spread / disciples increased… | Act 6:7 |
8. Evangelize | Samaria accepted the Word of God… | Act 8:14 |
9. Evangelize | Gentiles too accepted the Word of God… | Act 11:1 |
10. Evangelize | The Word of God / spread and grow… | Act 12:24 |
11. Evangelize | Arrived in Salamis / proclaimed the Word of God… | Act 13:5 |
12. Evangelize | A man of intelligence / Word of God… | Act 13:7 |
13. Evangelize | Word of God must be spoken to Jews / Gentiles… | Act 13:46 |
14. Evangelize | Word of God proclaimed by St. Paul in Beroea… | Act 17:13 |
15. Evangelize | St. Paul taught the Word of God among them… | Act 18:11 |
16. Sword / Spirit | Sword of the Spirit / Word of God… | Eph 6:17 |
Principle #14
14. God Knows Exactly What You Need
All the nations of the world seek for these things, and your Father knows that you need them. Luke 12:30
God Looks After Us
God is pleased to give those who believe in Him eternal life. He knows what we need to survive, and he know what we need in our lives to ensure our salvation.
My God will fully supply whatever you need, in accord with his glorious riches in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:19
God Knows That You Need Them
God knows that we have basic needs such as food, water, clothing, shelter, stability, and love. He wants us to actively seek those things. He also wants our cooperation.
- Detachment from exterior goods (trust in God, not wealth).
- Take action to assist His providence (give the day your best effort)
- Prayerfully seek His will in everything (e.g. Our Father prayer)
CCC 305 Jesus asks for childlike abandonment to the providence of our heavenly Father who takes care of his children’s smallest needs.
Walk in Wisdom
God wants us to walk with Him in life. He does not want us to trust in ourselves.
Those who trust in themselves are fools, but those who walk in wisdom are safe. Proverbs 28:26
Do Not Trust in Wealth
God does not want us to trust in wealth.
Those who trust in their riches will fall. Proverbs 11:28a
Do Not Worry
God does not want us to worry and have anxiety. God wants us to trust Him.
Reference | Description | Verse |
---|---|---|
Do not worry | Don’t worry about your life… | Lk 12:22 |
Do not worry | Can any of you by worrying… | Lk 12:25 |
Beyond control | Beyond your control, why are you anxious… | Lk 12:26 |
Do not worry | Do not worry anymore… | Lk 12:29 |
Trust in God
Trust in God. Have faith that He will lead you in life in accordance with His will.
“Trust in the Lord with all you heart. Proverbs 3:5
Chapter #4 God’s Divine Economy
The Trinity
The divine economy is the mysterious nature of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, the Trinity. The Trinity has both a divine nature and a common operation: to save us.
Go, therefore, and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the holy Spirit. Matthew 28:19
Authority Structure
The Father, Son, and Holy Spirit are inseparable from what they are and do in the work of creation. In addition, God has created a cosmic authority structure that functions to keep right order in everything. An example is the hierarchy of the angels in heaven.
…[God] Seating Christ at His right hand in the heavens, far above every principality, authority, power, and dominion, and every name that is named not only in this age but also in the one to come. Ephesians 1:20-21
Freedom in God’s Word
God wills for us to obey His 10 commandments and to stay within the structure He has established. The structure is in the Word. We find true freedom in God’s Word.
- Learn God’s Word.
- Love God’s Word.
- Keep God’s Word.
The 10 Commandments (From God’s Word)
# | Reference | Commandment |
---|---|---|
1 | Love God | I am the LORD / you shall worship the Lord / only serve Him. |
2 | Love God | Do not take the Lord’s name in vain. |
3 | Love God | Keep the Sabbath day holy (go to Mass / do not work). |
4 | Love Others | Honor your father and your mother. |
5 | Love Others | You shall not kill. |
6 | Love Others | You shall not commit adultery. |
7 | Love Others | You shall not steal. |
8 | Love Others | You shall not bear false witness against your neighbor. |
9 | Love Others | You shall not desire your neighbor’s wife. |
10 | Love Others | You shall not desire your neighbor’s goods. |
The End Goal of the Divine Economy
The end goal of the whole divine economy is for us to be in communion with the Blessed Trinity. We have to learn God’s Word, love God’s Word, and keep God’s Word.
“The way to know the Father is the Son.” + St. Irenaeus
And the best thing is, there is great joy to be found in the Word! God’s Word will give you peace. If you want to experience profound peace in your life, read/study the Bible.
“Whoever loves me will keep my word, and my Father will love him, and we will come to him and make our dwelling with him. John 14:23b
Catechism of the Divine Economy
Reference | Description | CCC |
---|---|---|
Trinity | Divine economy / common work of 3 divine persons… | 258 |
Divine work | Christian life / communion / 3 Divine persons… | 259 |
Disciple / goal | God’s creatures / hopeful / union w Blessed Trinity… | 260 |
Principle #15
15. Christ is Seated Right Next to God
But from this time on the Son of Man will be seated at the right hand of the power of God. Luke 22:69
Christ is Enthroned Above All
Christ is enthroned above all at the right hand of the Father. Christ successfully completed His mission here on earth and has received everlasting dominion from the Father. Christ is forever with the Most High God, above all, over all of creation.
In these last days, God spoke to us through a Son, whom He made heir of all things and through whom He created the universe…He took his seat at the right hand of the Majesty on high. Hebrews 1:2-3b
Christ is the Word
The Incarnation of the Word from John’s Gospel reveals Christ’s true identity.
In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. John 1:1
Christ is at the Right Hand of God the Father in Heaven
Reference | Description | Verse |
---|---|---|
Right hand | The LORD says to my Lord, sit at my right hand… | Psalms 110:1 |
Kingship | He reached the Ancient of Days and was presented… | Daniel 7:13-14 |
Right hand | The Son of Man standing at the right hand of God… | Acts 7:56 |
Right hand | He took His seat at the right hand of the Majesty… | Hebrews 1:3 |
High priest | Higher than the heavens… | Hebrews 7:26 |
Right hand | Right hand of the throne of the Majesty in heaven… | Hebrews 8:1 |
Right hand | At the right hand of God with angels, authorities… | 1 Peter 3:22 |
Union with the Blessed Trinity
As disciples of Christ, our #1 goal is to be in union with the Blessed Trinity in heaven.
CCC 260 The ultimate end of the whole divine economy is the entry of God’s creatures into the perfect unity of the Blessed Trinity. But even now we are called to be a dwelling for the Most Holy Trinity: “If a man loves me”, says the Lord, “he will keep my word, and my Father will love him, and we will come to him, and make our home with him.”
Principle #16
16. Christ is the New Covenant
I tell you, among those born of women, no one is greater than John; yet the least in the kingdom of God is greater than he.” Luke 7:28
A New Creation in Christ
During the time of the law and prophets, Jesus says no one is greater than John the Baptist. The saving work of Jesus on the cross abolished the O.T. yoke. As baptized Christians, we are a new creation. We live under the new covenant in Christ.
So whoever is in Christ is a new creation: the old things have passed away; behold, new things have come. 2 Corinthians 5:17
The New Covenant
Those who love Jesus and keep His Word in this life will enter the kingdom of God. They will enter the kingdom of God through His grace and through great effort.
“The Way is long. The work is immense.” – St. Charbel
Should we be found worthy to enter, God will determine our rank in the hierarchy.
People will come from the east and the west and from the north and the south and will recline at table in the kingdom of God. For behold, some are last who will be first, and some are first who will be last. Luke 13:29-30
Principle #17
17. God Has Eternal Love for Us
But those who are deemed worthy to attain to the coming age and to the resurrection of the dead neither marry nor are given in marriage. Luke 20:35
God’s Heavenly Hierarchy
If you are found worthy to be given a place in the heavenly hierarchy by God, you won’t be getting married to anyone there. You will be a child of the Most High God and experience His eternal love for us at level we can’t begin to imagine or comprehend.
“Just as our Lord also said, ‘They shall neither marry nor be given in marriage, but shall be equal to the angels, the children of the God of the resurrection.’ ” + St. Justin Martyr
25 Verses About Eternal Life from the Gospels
Reference | Description | Verse |
---|---|---|
1. Inquiry | What must I do to gain eternal life… | Mt 19:16 |
2. Disciple | Given up everything for Jesus / eternal life… | Mt 19:29 |
3. Righteous | The righteous to eternal life… | Mt 25:46 |
4. Inquiry | What must I do to gain eternal life… | Mk 10:17 |
5. Disciple | Given up everything for Jesus / eternal life… | Mk 10:30 |
6. Inquiry | What must I do to gain eternal life… | Lk 10:25 |
7. Inquiry | What must I do to gain eternal life… | Lk 18:18 |
8. Disciple | Given up everything for Jesus / eternal life… | Lk 18:30 |
9. Believe | Everyone who believes in Him / eternal life… | Jn 3:15 |
10. Believe | Everyone who believe in Him / eternal life… | Jn 3:16 |
11. Believe | Whoever believes in the Son / eternal life… | Jn 3:36 |
12. Spring | Water I shall give / spring / eternal life…. | Jn 4:14 |
13. Sow/reap | Reaper gathering crops for eternal life… | Jn 4:36 |
14. Word | Hears Word / believes / eternal life… | Jn 5:24 |
15. Presume | Think you have eternal life… | Jn 5:39 |
16. Eucharist | Food that endures for eternal life… | Jn 6:27 |
17. Believe | Everyone who believes / eternal life… | Jn 6:40 |
18. Believe | Whoever believes has eternal life… | Jn 6:47 |
19. Eucharist | Eats my flesh / drinks my blood / eternal life… | Jn 6:54 |
20. St. Peter | Master, you have the words of eternal life… | Jn 6:68 |
21. Sheep | I give them eternal life / never shall perish… | Jn 10:28 |
22. Disciple | Whoever loses his life for Jesus / eternal life… | Jn 12:25 |
23. God’s will | I know / commandment is eternal life… | Jn 12:50 |
24. J / Prayer | He may give eternal life to all you gave Him… | Jn 17:2 |
25. Word | Eternal life / know God / know Jesus… | Jn 17:3 |
Principle #18
18. God Raises Up His Children
They can no longer die, for they are like angels; and they are the children of God because they are the ones who will rise. Luke 20:36
Children of Men and Women
As children of men and women, we are born into this world. We grow up. We might marry. There may be regeneration or there may not. We all live, and we all die.
“Christ’s death brings the dead to life.” + St. Bonaventure
While we are alive, are given the free will to accept Christ or to reject Christ.
For you were called for freedom, brothers. But do not use this freedom as an opportunity for the flesh; rather, serve one another through love. Galatians 5:13
Children of God
The children of God are raised from the dead to be with Christ forever.
The Children of God Are Raised.
“Those who believe in Jesus Christ will be raised like Him by the Father.” + St. Ignatius of Antioch
Children of Condemnation
The children of condemnation will fall into an abyss of eternal misery.
The Children of Condemnation Are Condemned
“There will be no true life for you except in Christ, for He is the one source of true life. Apart from Him you will find only death and destruction.” + St. John Eudes
Choose the LORD!
One of the best ways to choose the LORD is to make a morning offering to Him. Here is the morning offering prayer I pray every day. You offer your day to God and St. Mary.
If it is displeasing to you to serve the LORD, choose today whom you will serve… As for me and my household, we will serve the LORD. Joshua 24:15
Principle #19
19. Dead Believers Are Alive to God
And he is not God of the dead, but of the living, for to Him all are alive. Luke 20:38
God is the God of the Living
God gives us assurance that those who believed in Him and followed His precepts while they were alive on earth are still alive with Him on the other side of the veil.
I am the God of your father, He continued, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob. Moses hid his face, for he was afraid to look at God. Exodus 3:6
Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob had already died, but God gave Moses assurance by speaking to him in the present tense that they, although bodily dead, are still alive.
Offer Up a Mass for a Loved One
You may know of a loved one who has already passed but wasn’t as saintly as the patriarchs of old. It’s never too late to have Masses offered for the repose of their soul.
CCC 1032 From the beginning the Church has honored the memory of the dead and offered prayers in suffrage for them, above all the Eucharistic sacrifice, so that, thus purified, they may attain the beatific vision of God. The Church also commends almsgiving, indulgences, and works of penance undertaken on behalf of the dead.
Chapter #5 God’s Judgment
The 2 Judgments of God
God has two (2) judgments awaiting everyone:
- The Particular Judgment.
- The General Judgment.
1. The Particular Judgment
When we die, we immediately go up to stand before Christ for the particular judgment. Everything that we have done, good and evil, will be evaluated by God.
Jesus Christ is the Judge at the Particular Judgment. Before Him each soul must stand. The soul will stand in the awful presence of God the Son, to give an account of its whole life: of every thought, word, act, and omission. Source: My Catholic Faith
6 Scripture Verses about the Particular Judgment
# | Reference | Description | Verse |
---|---|---|---|
1. | Mortals | For you are dust, and to dust you shall return… | Gen 3:19 |
2. | Immediately | Human beings die…after this the judgment… | Heb 9:27 |
3. | Life/Returned | Life breath returns to God who gave it… | Eccl 12:7 |
4. | Render/Account | Render an account / every careless word… | Mt 12:36 |
5. | Render/Account | Each / give an account of himself to God… | Rom 14:12 |
6. | Christ/Judge | Father has given all judgment to His Son… | Jn 5:22 |
2. General Judgment
At the end of the world, all of creation will be assembled before Christ for the general judgment. Christ will give a judgment to each of us with perfect justice and mercy.
As I watched, Thrones were set up and the Ancient of Days took His throne. His clothing was white as snow, the hair on his head like pure wool; His throne was flames of fire, with wheels of burning fire…myriads upon myriads stood before him. The court was convened, and the books were opened. Daniel 7:9-10
Christ received kingship and sovereign authority by the Father over all of creation.
As the visions during the night continued, I saw coming with the clouds of heaven One like a son of man. When He reached the Ancient of Days and was presented before Him, He received dominion, splendor, and kingship; all nations, peoples and tongues will serve Him. His dominion is an everlasting dominion that shall not pass away, His kingship, one that shall not be destroyed. Daniel 7:13-14
20 Things to Know about the General Judgment
- The general judgment will take place at the end of the world.
- Only God knows when the general judgment will take place.
- Christ will appear in great power with His angels on heavenly clouds.
- A trumpet will sound and all souls will be reunited with their bodies.
- The judgment will take place immediately after the general resurrection.
- The general judgment is a public repetition of the particular judgment.
- Christ’s glory will be present in His justice, wisdom, and mercy.
- Every human being, angel, and fallen angel will be present.
- The wicked will be veiled from seeing the glory of God.
- Jesus Christ will be the judge of all at the general judgment.
- Everything hidden by human beings will be brought to light by Christ.
- God will disclose all good and evil each of us have done to everyone.
- Every thought and word we have said will be known to everyone.
- The body will share with the soul Christ’s rewards and punishments.
- The faithful will be placed at the right hand of Christ.
- The faithful will be honored for the good deeds they have done.
- The faithful will receive rewards for the good deeds they have done.
- The wicked will be placed at the left hand of Christ
- The wicked will be shamed for the evil deeds they have done.
- The wicked will fall body and soul into hell.
14 Scripture Verses about the General Judgment
# | Reference | Description | Verse |
---|---|---|---|
1 | Unknown day/hour | That day and hour no one knows | Mt 24:36 |
2 | Have faith in Christ | Will the Son of Man find faith on earth? | Lk 18:8 |
3 | Christ returns | Christ will return as you have seen Him… | Acts 1:11 |
4 | Signs appear | The sun will be darkened… | Mt 24:29 |
5 | Christ’s return | Clouds of heaven with great power/glory… | Mt 24:30 |
6 | Angels sent | The angels will gather His elect… | Mt 24:31 |
7 | Christ’s light | Judged / to their deeds… | Rev 20:12 |
8 | Hidden exposed | Nothing secret that will not be known… | Lk 8:17 |
9 | Recompense | I will give to each according to his deeds | Rev 22:12 |
10 | Just rewarded | Inherit the kingdom prepared for you… | Mt 25:34 |
11 | Just go to heaven | The righteous will go off to eternal light… | Mt 25:46 |
12 | Unjust regret | The way of the Lord we never knew… | Wis 5:7 |
13 | Unjust sentenced | Depart from me / accursed into the fire… | Mt 25:41 |
14 | Unjust go to hell | Accursed will go off to eternal punishment | Mt 25:46 |
Principle #20
20. God Invites All and Judges All
For behold, some are last who will be first, and some are first who will be last. Luke 13:30
Christ Invites All
All of us are invited to the heavenly banquet by Christ, but many do not respond.
‘Go out to the highways and hedgerows and make people come in that my home may be filled. For, I tell you, none of those men who were invited will taste my dinner.’ Luke 14:23-24
Christ Judges All
All of us will be judged by God. He will judge us based on our response to His grace.
“God will judge us on what we actually do – on our response to grace.” Source: Navarre Bible
Some of the Last Will Be First
Some people who count the least will be counted first in the Kingdom of Heaven. Even the most wayward Gentiles can have a conversion of heart and replace the chosen.
Both Paul and Barnabas spoke out boldly and said, “It was necessary that the word of God be spoken to you first, but since you reject it and condemn yourselves as unworthy of eternal life, we now turn to the Gentiles. Acts 13:46
Some of the First Will Be Last
Some of the chosen from Israel will give up their place in the Kingdom to Gentile souls who delight in Christ. Some, but not all. E.g. The apostles were among the chosen.
CCC 60 The people descended from Abraham would be the trustee of the promise made to the patriarchs, the chosen people, called to prepare for that day when God would gather all his children into the unity of the Church. They would be the root on to which the Gentiles would be grafted, once they came to believe.
Principle #21
21. Christ Will Return Unexpected
You also must be prepared, for at an hour you do not expect, the Son of Man will come. Luke 12:40
Spiritual Vigilance
Christ will return at an hour we do not expect. The catechism states that when we die we will immediately go up for judgment. What we don’t know is when we will die. This is why it is important to be prepared for Christ’s coming at an unknown hour.
The Battle for Spiritual Vigilance
Description | CCC # |
---|---|
The battle…requires vigilance, sobriety of heart. | 2730 |
Christ unites us to His battle…He urges us to vigilance. | 2849 |
“Give yourself to prayer continually, ask for wisdom greater than you now have, keep alert with an unflagging spirit.” + St. Ignatius of Antioch
False Presumptions
There may often be a false consensus that as long as one is baptized and believes in Jesus that one can basically do whatever they want for themselves in this life and still be saved, but the Bible teaches us that we should not presume and test the Lord.
You shall not put the Lord, your God, to the test. Deuteronomy 6:16
Live Your Life Proclaiming the Gospel
The Church teaches us that we are called to live our lives in love and service to God. We are called to live our lives for the Gospel and to be fully prepared for Christ’s return.
8 Verses About Being Prepared
Reference | Description | Verse |
---|---|---|
1. Unknown hour | But of that day and hour no one knows… | Mt 24:36 |
2. Be alert | Be watchful! Be alert! You do not know… | Mk 13:33-37 |
3. Unknown hour | Its is not for you to know the times… | Act 1:7 |
4. Unexpected | The Lord will come like a thief at night… | 1 Thes 5:1-2 |
5. Unexpected | The day of the Lord will come like a thief… | 2 Pt 3:10 |
6. Unexpected | You will never know what hour I will come… | Rev 3:3 |
7. False presume | I am rich and affluent and have no need… | Rev 3:17 |
8. Vigilance | Blessed is the one who watches… | Rev 16:15 |
Principle #22
22. Christ Will Return in a Flash
For just as lightning flashes and lights up the sky from one side to the other, so will the Son of Man be in his day. Luke 17:24
Christ Will Be Seen in Glory
When Christ returns to judge the living and the dead, He will appear in glory, surrounded by His angels, and He will appear bright, fast, and as startling as lightning! The goodness of His glory will shine through us all, saints and sinners.
“Christ here alludes to the glory with which he shall appear when he shall come to judge the world, surrounded by his angels when he will appear like lightning, that shall penetrate the inmost recesses of our souls, and shall suffer no crime, not even the slightest thought of our souls, to pass unnoticed. This is the time when he will manifest his glory. “+ St. Bede
The Lord Appears in Glory (5 Verses)
Reference | Description | Verse |
---|---|---|
1. Glory | The glory of the Lord has dawned upon you… | Is 60:1 |
2. Glory | Upon the clouds of heaven with power and great glory… | Mt 24:30 |
3. Flash | A light from the sky suddenly flashed around him… | Act 9:3 |
4. Glory | The appearance of the glory of the great God… | Ti 2:13 |
5. Return | Behold, He is coming amid the clouds… | Rev 1:7 |
Principle #23
23. Everything is Exposed Visible
For there is nothing hidden that will not become visible, and nothing secret that will not be known and come to light. Luke 8:17
God Evaluates the Lamp of Our Interior Lives
God’s light will expose all things at the judgment for each of us. He will be able to see the light within us. Did we gather His light within us, and did it shine forth from us?
“When we consider that Christ is the true light, having nothing in common with deceit, we learn that our own life also must shine with the rays of that true light.” + St. Gregory of Nyssa
The Light of Christ Shines Within Us
Christ says if we know the truth, the truth will set us free. The Word sets us free from the darkness of sin. The Word illumines our hearts and shines forth for others to see.
What came to be through Him was life, and this life was the light of the human race; the light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it. John 1:3c-5
Principle #24
24. All Secrets Are Made Known
There is nothing concealed that will not be revealed, nor secret that will not be known. Luke 12:2
All Secrets Will Be Revealed
All secrets will be revealed at God’s judgment. What we have said, thought, done, and failed to do will be visible before God and before all on the last day, even our thoughts.
Everything exposed by the Light becomes visible. Ephesians 5:13
Remain in the Word
Jesus advises us to exchange the darkness of this world for the light of His Word. As disciples of Christ, we are to remain in the Word, and live in the light of His truth.
“You must know that the day of judgment, like a flaming furnace, is already approaching. Sun, moon, and stars will be consumed, and the whole earth will become like lead in a melting fire. All that each man has done, whether openly or in secret, will be brought to light.” + From a homily written in the second century
St. Peter’s 2nd Letter verifies that everything we did, good and bad, will be known.
But the day of the Lord will come like a thief, and then the heavens will pass away with a mighty roar and the elements will be dissolved by fire, and the earth and everything done on it will be found out. 2 Peter 3:10
Chapter #6 God’s Will
What is God’s Will for Me?
This is a question you may find yourself asking. How can you really be sure you are doing the will of God? The verses below will help show you there are levels with it.
#1 Live a Holy Life
Reference | Description | Verse |
---|---|---|
Be Chaste | The will of God / refrain from immorality… | 1 Thes 4:3 |
Be Thankful | In all circumstances give thanks / the will of God… | 1 Thes 5:18 |
Carry Your Cross | Spend no time on human desires / the will of God… | 1 Pt 4:2 |
Pray for Others | Striving for others in your prayers / the will of God… | Col 4:12 |
Right Order | You need endurance to do the will of God… | Heb 10:36 |
Bible Study | The renewal of your mind / the will of God… | Rom 12:2 |
Bible Study | Knowledge of the truth / the will of God… | 1 Tim 2:4 |
#2 Be a Devout Disciple
Reference | Description | Verse |
---|---|---|
Discipleship | As slaves of Christ, doing the will of God… | Eph 6:6 |
Discipleship | Whoever does the will of God is my brother… | Mk 3:35 |
Discipleship | Whoever does the will of God remains forever… | 1 Jn 2:17 |
#3 Trust in God’s Providence
Reference | Description | Verse |
---|---|---|
Providence | He has mercy and hardens whom He wills… | Rom 9:18 |
Providence | I may come to you with joy by the will of God… | Rom 15:32 |
Providence | Gave themselves to the Lord / us by the will of God… | 2 Cor 8:5 |
#4 Take Action
Reference | Description | Verse |
---|---|---|
Action | If the Lord wills it we shall do this… | Jam 4:15 |
Action | The will of God by doing good you may… | 1 Pt 2:15 |
Action | Better to suffer for doing good, if it is God’s will… | 1 Pt 3:17 |
Principle #25
25. God Wills to Save Us
For the Son of Man has come to seek and to save what was lost. Luke 19:10
The Son of Man Seeks the Lost
God wills to save us from eternal destruction. The Son of Man seeks to save the lost. Without the saving work of Jesus on the cross, we would have no chance of eternal life. The Good Lord continually searches for us. His will is to save us from the evil one.
“God’s will is to save us, and nothing pleases him more than our coming back to Him with true repentance.” + St. Maximus
The Mission of Jesus: He Seeks to Save Us
Reference | Description | Verse |
---|---|---|
Seeks the lost | I have come to call sinners to repentance… | Lk 5:32 |
Seeks the lost | Goes after the lost one until He finds it… | Lk 15:4 |
Seek the lost | Sweeps the house, searching carefully… | Lk 15:8 |
Seeks the lost | He caught sight of him a long way off... | Lk 15:20 |
Repentance | Angels rejoice over one sinner who repents… | Lk 15:10 |
Save your soul | Lose your life for Christ / save your soul… | Lk 9:24 |
This saying is trustworthy and deserves full acceptance: Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners. 1 Timothy 1:15a
Principle #26
26. God Wills to Serve Us
For who is greater: the one seated at table or the one who serves? Is it not the one seated at table? I am among you as the one who serves. Luke 22:27
The Lord Loves to Serve Us
Christ came to serve us. He became a servant for us all. There are even verses in the Gospel, where Jesus asks, “What do you want me to do for you?” Now that Christ has completed the mission the Father gave Him, He asks us to serve others, bringing them to the true light of the Gospel, where we find love and peace in His Holy Name.
Christ, King and Lord of the universe, made himself the servant of all, for he came “not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” CCC 786
God and the Angels Serve Us
Reference | Description | Verse |
---|---|---|
Jesus serves | The Son of Man came to serve and give His life… | Mt 20:28 |
Jesus serves | The Son of Man came to serve and give His life… | Mk 10:45 |
Angels serve | They are ministering spirits sent to serve… | Heb 1:14 |
Gifts of God’s Grace
God wills for us to serve Him, to serve one another, and to serve the Church with good deeds and charity. How do you do this? What are you good at, and what do you like to do? Use your talents to serve God and glorify Him with good deeds and charity.
As each one has received a gift, use it to serve one another as good stewards of God’s varied grace. 1 Peter 4:10
Principle #27
27. God Wills the Gospel Preached
And that repentance, for the forgiveness of sins, would be preached in his name to all the nations, beginning from Jerusalem. Luke 24:47
Jesus Christ is the Son of the Living God
God wills for the Gospel to be preached to the ends of the earth. In faith, we proclaim that Jesus Christ is the Son of the Living God. We believe He will return to judge the living and the dead. We believe all the truths the holy Catholic Church teaches us.
Are You Called to Preach the Gospel?
If you feel like you might have a vocation, check out Vianney Vocations.
Reference | Description | Verse |
---|---|---|
Vocation | How can people preach unless they are sent? | Rom 10:15 |
Preach / Live it | Those who preach…should live the gospel… | 1 Cor 9:14 |
To all nations | Gospel must first be preached to all nations… | Mt 24:14 |
Apostles | They went forth and preached everywhere… | Mk 16:20 |
Vocation | Whoever preaches, let it be with the words of God… | 1 Pt 4:11 |
Principle #28
28. God Wills Spiritual Warfare
Jesus said to him in reply, “It also says, ‘You shall not put the Lord, your God, to the test.’” Luke 4:12
Jesus Combats the Devil with Sacred Scripture
Jesus successfully combats the devil with the scriptures, and He wills for us to do the same. The principle is not as much in the wording of the verse as it is what Jesus is doing in this Gospel passage. He gives us an example to follow, and it has been done by the saints and martyrs throughout the ages. Live in the Word and enter the battle!
The Warfare of Christ
The Son of God was revealed to destroy the works of the devil. 1 John 3:8b
Description | Catechism |
---|---|
The whole world…the evil one makes man’s life a battle… | CCC 409 |
Sign impressed on him who is to enter the warfare of Christ… | CCT Conf |
The Contest of Faith
This is a mystery, but we know that it is true because the Bible tells us so. Whether you are winning your battles or have abandoned the battle, God and His angels watch us.
“As we do battle and fight in the contest of faith, God, his angels and Christ himself watch us.” + St. Cyprian
Spiritual Warfare Presentation
This might be the best presentation ever given on Catholic spiritual warfare.
Principle #29
29. Christ Wills for Us to Know God
All things have been handed over to me by my Father. No one knows who the Son is except the Father, and who the Father is except the Son and anyone to whom the Son wishes to reveal him.” Luke 10:22
God Wills for Us to Know Him
Christ the Son wills for us to know God the Father. St. Rosaline, whose body was found to be incorrupt, gives good testimony here. In addition to the sacraments and fasting, St. Rosaline was constantly praying the offices of the Church and doing lectio divina.
Psalm-prayer
“Let your Word, Father, be a lamp for our feet and a light to our path, so that we may understand what you wish to teach us and follow the path your light marks out for us.” Divine Office, Volume IV p. 787
10 Benefits of Learning Who God is in Scripture
# | Benefit | Description | Verse |
---|---|---|---|
1 | Understanding | Grow in grace / knowledge of our Lord… | 2 Pt 3:18 |
2 | Hope | By the scriptures we might have hope… | Rom 15:4 |
3 | Encouragement | We have encouragement / holy books… | 1 Mac 12:9 |
4 | Formation | Scripture…for refutation, correction, training… | 2 Tim 3:16 |
5 | Righteousness | For to know You well is / righteousness… | Wis 15:3 |
6 | Conversion | I give a heart to know Me, that I am the LORD… | Jer 24:7 |
7 | Discernment | They shall know… a heart / ears that listen… | Bar 2:31 |
8 | Guidance | Your word / a lamp for my feet / light / path… | Ps 119:105 |
9 | Right Order | The teaching…the reproofs that discipline… | Prv 6:23 |
10 | Eternal Life | This is eternal life / they should know You… | Jn 17:3 |
Principle #30
30. Christ Wills for Us to Worship God
Jesus said to him in reply, “It is written: ‘You shall worship the Lord, your God, and him alone shall you serve.’” Luke 4:8
Choose the Light
Christ the Son wills for us to worship the Father. This principle is always in place. To do anything less is a violation of the First Commandment. We must choose the light.
Let us choose what is right. Job 34:4a
The First Commandment
I am the Lord thy God; thou shall not have strange Gods before Me.
6 Verses About the Breath of God
It is the very breath of God that keep us alive. Every blessing and grace that we have received in this life, we have received from God’s authority, allowing it in our lives. This is why we should worship God. He deserves our love for the life He has given us.
Reference | Description | Verse |
---|---|---|
1. God/breath | God blew into man’s nostrils the breath of life… | Gen 2:7 |
2. God/breath | As long as I have the breath of God in my nostrils… | Jb 27:3 |
3. God/breath | The breath of God gives them understanding… | Jb 32:8 |
4. God/breath | The breath of the Almighty keeps me alive… | Jb 33:4 |
5. God/breath | The breath returns to God who gave it life… | Eccl 12:7 |
6. God/breath | Jesus breathed on them / receive the Holy Spirit… | Jn 20:22 |
God Hasn’t Given You Tomorrow Yet
There are no guarantees we will live to grow old, enjoy retirement, and that kind of thing. The Bible advises us to focus on God because we simply do not know if we will be alive to see tomorrow (see principle #21). How many people do you know your age who have already died? It could happen to any of us. Give God your very best this day.
Man is but a breath. His days are like a passing of a shadow. Psalms 144:4
Focus on God Today
Reference | Description | Verse |
---|---|---|
Focus on God today | They don’t know how long it will be till they die… | Sir 2:19 |
Focus on God today | Do not worry about tomorrow / sufficient today… | Mt 6:34 |
Focus on God today | This night your life will be demanded of you… | Lk 12:20 |
Principle #31
31. Christ Wills for Us to Be Like Him
No disciple is superior to the teacher; but when fully trained, every disciple will be like his teacher. Luke 6:40
Word, Prayer, and Sacraments
Christ wills for us to be like Him. To be like Christ, we have to know Him in the Word. We have to spend time with Him in prayer. We have to receive Him in the Eucharist.
“All who receive the sacred flesh of Christ are united with Him as members of his body.” + St. Cyril of Alexandria
Formed in Christ
When a young man enters seminary to discern for priesthood, a transformation takes place. He leaves his old way of life behind him. After years of study and formation, the graces of God flow forth, and he is formed into a new man in Christ.
- He is immersed in the reading and study of the Word.
- He prays: by himself and with his brothers in Christ.
- He receives the sacraments: Penance and Eucharist.
- He adores the Blessed Sacrament with devotion.
- He serves others and performs good deeds.
- He is active in a number of different ministries.
- He evangelizes and performs works of mercy.
- He is mindful of the teachings of the Church.
- He works on virtue and increases in wisdom.
- He enjoys fellowship with the community.
- He carries his cross in imitation of Christ.
- He loves God, and he loves others.
Carry Your Cross for Christ
Reference | Description | Verse |
---|---|---|
Suffer / Cross | Christ suffered for you, leaving you an example… | 1 Pt 2:21 |
Live like Christ | If you abide in Him, live like He did.. | 1 Jn 2:6 |
Carry Your Cross | Christ loves us and handed himself over for us… | Eph 5:2 |
Carry Your Cross | Deny yourself, carry your cross, and follow Me… | Mt 16:24 |
Light of Christ | Your light must shine before others… | Mt 5:16 |
Love like Christ | We love because He first loved us… | 1 Jn 4:19 |
Chapter #7 Recap
I hope you have enjoyed this post, and that it helped give you a better understanding of who God is and His principles based on Christ’s words from the Gospel. If you have a better understanding of who God is, it should help you increase in your faith life. It should help you increase in a personal relationship with God. May the Lord Bless you!
“The flames of the Lord’s love burn beyond the stars.” + St. Columban
31 Amazing Principles About God
# | Reference | Description | Verse |
---|---|---|---|
1 | God’s Church | God’s Church is a house of prayer. | Lk 19:46 |
2 | God’s Church | Christ is the Church Cornerstone. | Lk 20:17 |
3 | God’s Church | The Eucharist is the Body of Christ. | Lk 22:19 |
4 | God’s Church | The Eucharist is the Blood of Christ. | Lk 22:20 |
5 | God’s Church | Unbelieving kingdoms are destroyed. | Lk 20:18 |
6 | God of Love | No one is good but God alone. | Lk 18:19 |
7 | God of Love | God’s Holy Spirit is active. | Lk 11:13 |
8 | God of Love | God gives us the kingdom. | Lk 12:32 |
9 | God of Love | God heals the afflicted. | Lk 5:31 |
10 | God of Love | God is kind to the wicked. | Lk 6:35 |
11 | God of Math | Christ controls all spiritual warfare. | Lk 12:7 |
12 | God of Math | God’s Word is 100% valid. | Lk 16:17 |
13 | God of Math | God’s Word is 100% eternal. | Lk 21:33 |
14 | God of Math | God knows exactly what you need. | Lk 12:30 |
15 | God’s Divine Econ. | Christ is seated right next to God | Lk 22:69 |
16 | God’s Divine Econ. | Christ is the new covenant. | Lk 7:28 |
17 | God’s Divine Econ. | God has eternal love for us. | Lk 20:35 |
18 | God’s Divine Econ. | God raises up His children. | Lk 20:36 |
19 | God’s Divine Econ. | Dead believers are alive to God. | Lk 20:38 |
20 | God’s Judgment | God invites all and judges all. | Lk 13:30 |
21 | God’s Judgment | Christ will return unexpected. | Lk 12:40 |
22 | God’s Judgment | Christ will return in a flash. | Lk 17:24 |
23 | God’s Judgment | Everything is exposed visible. | Lk 8:17 |
24 | God’s Judgment | All secrets are made known. | Lk 12:2 |
25 | God’s Will | God wills to save us. | Lk 19:10 |
26 | God’s Will | God wills to serve us. | Lk 22:27 |
27 | God’s Will | God wills the Gospel preached. | Lk 24:47 |
28 | God’s Will | God wills spiritual warfare. | Lk 4:12 |
29 | God’s Will | Christ wills for us to know God. | Lk 10:22 |
30 | God’s Will | Christ wills for us to worship God. | Lk 4:8 |
31 | God’s Will | Christ wills for us to be like Him. | Lk 6:40 |
Eucharistic Adoration
I should point out the idea for this post came to mind while reading from St. Luke’s Gospel during Eucharistic Adoration at my parish. Spend time with God and He will bless you. Pray for God’s will to be done in your life, and He will answer your prayers.
For everyone who asks receives, and He who seeks finds, and to him who knocks it will be opened. Luke 11:10