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Michael Carter

A Modern Day Paraphrase of the 10 Commandments

The Ten Commandments or the Tablets of the Law are the laws that God gave to the people of Israel through Moses after leading them out of Egypt. In essence, they are a summary of the hundreds of laws found in the Old Testament Law and are recorded in Exodus 20:1-17 and Deuteronomy 5:6-21. They offer basic rules of behavior for spiritual and moral living.

The following is a modern-day paraphrase of the Ten Commandments:

  1. Do not worship any other god than the one true God. All other gods are false gods.

  2. Do not make idols or images in the form of God. An idol can be anything (or anyone) you worship by giving it more importance than God. If something (or someone) has your time, attention and affections, it has your worship. It could be an idol in your life.

  3. Do not treat God's name lightly or with disrespect. Because of God's importance, his name is always to be spoken of with honor.

  4. Dedicate or set aside a regular day each week for sabbath rest and worship of the Lord.

  5. Give honor to your father and mother by treating them with respect and obedience.

  6. Do not deliberately kill a fellow human being.

  7. Do not have sexual relations with anyone other than your spouse. God forbids sex outside of the bounds of marriage.

  8. Do not steal or take anything that doesn't belong to you, unless you have been given permission to do so.

  9. Do not tell a lie about someone or bring a false accusation against another person.

  10. Do not desire anything or anyone that does not belong to you. Comparing yourself to others and longing to have what they have leads to jealousy, envy and other sins. Be content by focusing on the blessings God has given you and not what he has not given you.

Michael Carter, Realtor Greenville, SC www.beachboyrealestate.com

Twenty Facts About God From His Word

Do you want to know more about God? These 20 Bible facts about God will give you insight into the nature and character of God.

  1. God is eternal.
    (Deuteronomy 33:27; Jeremiah 10:10; Psalm 90:2)

  2. God is infinite.
    (1 Kings 8:22-27; Jeremiah 23:24; Psalm 102:25-27; Revelation 22:13)

  3. God is self-sufficient and self-existent.
    (Exodus 3:13-14; Psalm 50:10-12; Colossians 1:16)

  4. God is omnipresent (present everywhere).
    (Psalm 139:7-12)

  5. God is omnipotent (all powerful).
    (Genesis 18:14; Luke 18:27; Revelation 19:6)

  6. God is omniscient (all knowing).
    (Psalm 139:2-6; Isaiah 40:13-14)

  7. God is unchanging or immutable.
    (Psalm 102:25-27; Hebrews 1:10-12; 13:8)

  8. God is sovereign.
    (2 Samuel 7:22; Isaiah 46:9-11)

  9. God is wise.
    (Proverbs 3:19; Romans 16:26-27; 1 Timothy 1:17)

  10. God is holy.
    (Leviticus 19:2; 1 Peter 1:15)

  11. God is righteous and just.
    (Deuteronomy 32:4; Psalm 11:7; Psalm 119:137)

  12. God is faithful.
    (Deuteronomy 7:9; Psalm 89:1-8)

  13. God is true and truth.
    (Psalm 31:5; John 14:6; John 17:3; Titus 1:1-2)

  14. God is good.
    (Psalm 25:8; Psalm 34:8; Mark 10:18)

  15. God is merciful.
    (Deuteronomy 4:31; Psalm 103:8-17; Daniel 9:9; Hebrews 2:17)

  16. God is gracious.
    (Exodus 34:6; Psalm 103:8; 1 Peter 5:10)

  17. God is love.
    (John 3:16; Romans 5:8; 1 John 4:8)

  18. God is spirit.
    (John 4:24)

  19. God is light.
    (James 1:17; 1 John 1:5)

  20. God is triune or trinity.
    (Matthew 28:19; 2 Corinthians 13:14)

Michael Carter, Realtor Greenville, SC www.beachboyrealestate.com

Choosing a Bible

Are you in the market to purchase a new Bible, but not sure which one is right for you? With hundreds of Bibles to choose from, the decision may seem overwhelming. Here are a few ideas to consider from today's top Bible picks.

1. The Life Application Study Bible

The Life Application Study Bible The Life Application Study Bible is one of the best study Bibles to help you understand God's Word as you read, and teach you how to apply its truth to your daily life - your job, family, friendships, problems and questions. The study notes are right at the bottom of each page, so you don't have to search for them. The Life Application Study Bible comes in several popular translations, including NIV, NLT, NASB, KJV. Compare Prices

2. The Thompson Chain-Reference Bible

The Thompson Chain-Reference Bible The Thompson Chain-Reference Bible has a unique reference system that allows you to follow any subject, person, place or idea, from the beginning of your Bible to the end. I believe it is one of the best topical study tools ever put together. It's especially handy for teachers who need to prepare their own Bible study lessons. Durability and hand craftsmanship make it perfect for those who really use their Bible. Compare Prices

3. The Audio Bible Dramatized CD

The Audio Bible Dramatized CD Do you struggle with reading? Do you spend a great deal of time in your car? The Audio Bible Dramatized CD might be the perfect Bible for you. This fully dramatized, highly professional version allows you to experience God's Word as though you have entered into the text. It features the complete Bible on a 64 CD set with fully orchestrated background and sound effects. Compare Prices

4. The Message Bible

The Message Bible Looking for a Bible to bring the Word of God alive and relevant to your life in today's modern world? The Message is a contemporary rendering of the Bible in everyday language. It is one of the most reader-friendly Bibles available. There's no doubt that Eugene Peterson, when he paraphrased The Message, did it with the goal of speaking to modern minds and reaching the human heart. Compare Prices

5. The Hebrew-Greek Key Word Study Bible

Hebrew-Greek Key Word Study Bible The Hebrew-Greek Key Word Study Bible is a great Bible for students of Bible school or seminary. Most of us don't have time to learn another language while in Bible school. This Bible will help you unlock the extensive vocabulary and elaborate structure of the original Hebrew and Greek languages. Features include Strong's Concordance numbers, exegetical notes, lexical aids and much more. Compare Prices

6. The Amplified Bible

The Amplified Bible The Amplified Bible is another great Bible for those wanting to understand the meaning of Scripture in the original Greek and Hebrew language. No need to study or dig for those rich nuances found in the original biblical languages - this Bible does it for you. With a unique system of brackets, parentheses and italics, the Amplified Bible expands key words and defines phrases as you read. Verse by verse, the full meaning of God's Word is plainly revealed. Compare Prices

7. The Starting Point Study Bible

The Starting Point Study Bible The Starting Point Study Bible is an excellent Bible for new believers or believers who recently rededicated their lives to Christ and need to make a fresh start. This Bible will help you begin (or start over) on your journey with Christ by teaching you how to build the proper foundation of faith. It will also help you apply biblical truth to your daily life. Compare Prices

8. The GoBible

The Original GoBible The GoBible is a portable audio-only device containing the full Bible text. It's similar to an MP3 player, except there's no downloading of files or software and no PC interaction. It comes preloaded with either the KJV, the NKJV or the NIV. I am impressed with some of the GoBible's unique capabilities. It is the only audio Bible I've seen that is indexed and searchable by book, chapter and verse! To learn more visit their Web site.

9. The Comparative Study Bible

The Comparative Study Bible Do you like to compare text from different versions of the Bible? The Comparative Study Bible brings together four major translations - the New International Version, the New American Standard Bible, The Amplified Bible and the King James Version. The double column, two-page spread allows you to easily read and compare the text in all four versions. Compare Prices

10. The Faith in Action Study Bible

Faith in Action Study Bible The Faith in Action Study Bible is designed to help you live God's Word in a changing world. This Bible features an innovative note system that's divided into the two commentaries: "There and Then" and "Here and Now." "There and Then" provides background information and gives further explanation of the meaning of the text. "Here and Now" explores how the passage may be applied today. It's a great Bible for group studies as it invites and encourages discussion using open-ended questions. Compare Prices

Michael Carter, Realtor Greenville, SC www.beachboyrealestate.com

How to Get a Free Bible

At first I thought a better title might be, "How to Get a Free Bible without Stealing it from a Hotel Room." But, I didn't want to offend anyone, especially my Gideon friends. The truth is, the Gideons don't mind if you take those hotel Bibles. They are actually placed there for travelers who might need one. (It's a good idea, however, to ask the hotel for permission before you take the Bible!) So, there's one very easy way to obtain a free copy of the Bible.

Here's How:

  1. Contact a Local Church.
    One of the easiest ways, and actually the very best way to obtain a free Bible is to call a local church. Most large churches have a surplus of "left behind" Bibles in their lost and found. My church has so many unclaimed Bibles that we ask a local prison outreach to come and distribute them to prisoners. Some churches will even give away a new Bible if you don't have one. Don't be shy! If you truly need a Bible, most Bible teaching churches will be happy to set you up.
  2. Download Free Bible Software.
    Here are a few options for free Bible software programs to download:

    · E-SWORD

    · BiblePro for Windows - Download or request a free CD.

    · Theophilos Bible Software - Download or request a free CD.

    The SWORD Project
  3. Use a Free Online Bible.

    · BibleGateway.com

    · CrossWalk.com

    · BlueLetterBible.org

    SearchGodsWord.org
  4. Request a Bible from FreeBibles.net.
    FreeBibles.net promises to send a new or gently-used Bible to anyone in the U.S. who cannot afford to purchase one. Requests are limited to one per person and one per address, but other than these simple rules, there are no catches! Most ministries will only send a New Testament, or the "free" offer comes with strings attached. Not only does FreeBibles.net send a complete Bible, they also cover shipping and promise not to contact you with any solicitation. They cannot guarantee a specific translation and they only mail Bibles to the needy and imprisoned.
    FreeBibles.net
  5. Philippines and Africa Residents.
    GetYourFreeBible.com promises to send a New Testament Bible in the English, Tagalog of Hiligaynon language to anyone in the Philippines and Africa who cannot afford to purchase one. Requests are limited to one Bible per person. GetYourFreeBible.com will also take requests from small churches or ministries (Philippines & Africa only) who need Bibles for their ministry. And the best part? Absolutely no strings attached!
    GetYourFreeBible.com
  6. Contact a Bible Society.
    If you're looking for a large quantity of Bibles for ministry distribution, consider one of these societies. They offer reasonable pricing for bulk quantities. Obtaining free Bibles may be possible, however, not guaranteed.

    · International Bible Society

    · American Bible Society

    · The Gideons accept requests for Bibles in the following areas of need: hotels & motels; hospitals, nursing homes & domestic violence shelters; schools, colleges & universities; military, law enforcement, firefighters & EMTs; prisons & jails.

Michael Carter, Realtor Greenville, SC www.beachboyrealestate.com

My Favorite Bible Commentaries

Are you looking for a Bible commentary, but not sure which one is best suited for you? I've put together a brief overview of some of the best Bible commentators and commentaries to help answer your questions and narrow down your search.

R. Kent Hughes

R. Kent Hughes is my top choice among Bible commentators. He provides systematic explanation of the text in an easy to read and practically applicable format. He has written several volumes and series, so you will not come across them all in one neat set, however, they are easy enough to find. Hughes' commentaries are amplified with illustrations and applications to help pastors, teachers, students and lay people easily understand and teach the messages of Scripture. Here are a few to start with:

    "Genesis: Beginning & Blessing"
    Hardcover; 656 Pages.
    Compare Prices
    "Acts: Preaching the Word Series"
    Hardcover; 371 Pages.
    Compare Prices
    "James: Preaching the Word Series"
    Hardcover; 319 Pages.
    Compare Prices

Alan Redpath

Another favorite commentator is Alan Redpath, however, his books may be a little bit harder to get your hands on. His last of six books was published in 1978.

    "Victorious Christian Living: Studies in the Book of Joshua"
    Paperback; Reprint edition (August, 1993).
    Compare Prices
    "The Making of a Man of God: Lessons from the Life of David"
    Trade Paperback; 304 Pages.
    Compare Prices

William Barclay

William Barclay's New Testament commentary on CD-ROM is very popular and easy to understand. I recommend Barclay's work strictly for historical background research and not for doctrinal reliability.

    "William Barclay's New Testament Commentary on CD-ROM"
    Description: These 17 volumes of Barclay's daily study Bible on one CD-ROM include his own translation of the Greek New Testament. It is compatible with the Logos Library System. 8MB RAM, Windows 3.1 or higher.
    To order visit Christianbook.com.

John MacArthur Jr.

John MacArthur Jr.'s commentaries offer simple, systematic Bible exposition from a great Bible scholar. His theological perspectives lean toward fundamentalism and he teaches that all of the charismatic or spiritual gifts operated in the early church because they served a purpose then, however, because of abuses, they are no longer operative in the church today. MacArthur reflects a conservative, dispensational view of Scripture.

    "The MacArthur Bible Commentary"
    Description: Appropriate for preachers and teachers, as well as for individual Bible study, offering careful interpretation as well as practical illustrations and applications.
    Compare Prices

Warren Wiersbe

Warren Wiersbe possesses a very "accessible style" and brings extensive Bible knowledge to his commentaries. They emphasize personal life application, making them appropriate for pastors, students and anyone wishing to enrich their individual Bible study. Wiersbe's "The Bible Exposition Commentary" has several Old and New Testament volumes. Here are just two to begin with:

    "The Bible Exposition Commentary: New Testament"
    Description: This two volume set gives a clear, concise look at biblical life and meaning, compiling all of Wiersbe's New Testament "BE" books.
    Hardcover; 1354 Pages.
    Compare Prices
    "The Bible Exposition Commentary: Old Testament History"
    Description: Difficult passages of the Old Testament will come alive with Weirsbe's clear, non-technical explanations in easy to digest segments.
    Hardcover.
    Compare Prices

More Resource Libraries

If you're looking to invest in a complete resource library of preaching and teaching materials, here are three great options to consider:

    "Bible Knowledge Commentary: Old Testament & New Testament"
    Description: Edited by John F. Walvoord and Roy B. Zuck, "The Bible Knowledge Commentary" is based on the NIV translation and features exposition and commentary on the entire Bible from members of the Dallas Theological Seminary faculty. The perspective is theologically conservative, evangelical, non-technical, and includes verse by verse, phrase by phrase commentary.
    Compare Prices
    "The Preacher's Commentary CD-ROM"
    Description: This ultimate resource for preachers and teachers presents itself in eBible's Libronix software. The complete thirty five volumes of "The Communicator's Commentary" are revised and updated, providing section by section comments, illustrations, and sermon helps, all in an easy to navigate format.