The Bible Rhymes

God made existence, then made man,
Raised people up through Abraham,

Laid down the rules and gave them choice,
Some would refuse, and some rejoice,

And some would speak the words he gave
That would foretell his plan to save.

Ole Joe would leave his fiancée
When she was found in family way,

But his response, must have been awed,
When an angel said, "The dad is God".

The heavens spoke Messiah's fame,
So from the east the Magi came.

Though Herod tried to have him killed,
Escape to Egypt as God willed.

Then Joseph got another dream
That made the boy a Nazarene.

John preached out in the hot frontier,
"Repent, for God's kingdom is near."

Those who confessed he then baptized,
But hypocrites he criticized.

John said good trees produce good fruit,
But bad ones get chopped at the root.

He spoke of One whose pow'r was high'r,
Who'd baptize with the Spirit and fire.

Then Jesus came from Galilee,
And said to John, "You baptize me".

God's Spirit came down like a dove,
"This is my Son, and him I love."

Then Jesus went away to fast,
And after forty days had passed,

The devil came to tempt him thrice,
He said, "I bet some bread sounds nice".

Christ said, "Bread's not what keeps the bod,
But each word from the mouth of God".

Satan said, "Jump, if you're so blessed".
Christ said, "Don't put God to the test".

Next, "All the world I'll give to thee,
If you'll bow down and worship me".

Then Jesus said, "You go away,
I'll kneel to God and him obey".

In Zebulun and then beyond,
For those in darkness, light had dawned.

Reform and heaven Christ proclaims.
Called Simon, Andrew, John and James.

He preached the kingdom and good news.
He healed the sick among the Jews.

And as the people multiplied,
He preached along the mountainside.

"The poor in spirit in heaven reign,
And those who mourn shall comfort gain.

The land will belong to the meek.
Get righteousness, shall those who seek.

On merciful, mercy is poured.
The pure in heart shall see the Lord.

The peacemakers shall be God's heirs
And those oppressed, the kingdom's theirs.

If someone's persecuting you,
You're blessed, they hurt the prophets too.

You are the salt and you're the light.
Be God's example of what's right.

The Law will stand, Christ kept it all.
You broke it, whether large or small.

Don't kill, we've known this all along
Hate in your heart is just as wrong.

Adultery is sure unjust
And so is it to gaze with lust.

Don't swear, just tell the truth of course.
Don't seek revenge, and don't divorce.

We can all love our friends with ease
Love too, like God, your enemies.

It's good to give to charity
And best to do it secretly.

Pray not for men, with show and pride
But humbly, God sees what's inside.

Praise you, O God, your kingdom come.
Provide our needs and keep us from

Temptation and the evil one.
Forgive us. May your will be done.

If you forgive those who hurt you
Then you'll receive forgiveness too.

And when you fast, don't make a show
But only you and God should know.

Don't store your wealth in bins on earth.
In heaven, treasure keeps its worth.

I have to break it to you, honey
You cannot serve both God and money.

Seek God's domain and righteousness
He'll take care of your food and dress.

Don't judge and say "oh he's the worst",
Instead correct your own sin first.

Just keep in mind in all you do
You do as you'd have done to you.

The road is broad, the gate is wide
That to destruction lets you slide.

If you'd have Life become your fate
Choose narrow road with little gate.

From teachers who make good fruit, learn.
Producers of bad fruit will burn."

In closing, Jesus told his flock
"Be wise and build upon the rock."

He said to "Go!" and to "Be clean!"
He healed as prophets had foreseen.

Just "Follow me" - we think we can -
But no rest for the Son of Man.

When seas get rough, we get real scared
It's like we think God's not prepared.

But he's the Lord that makes and saves
He's Lord of all, of wind and waves.

He drives out demons, forgive sins,
The hearts of sickly sinners wins.

He says "let mercy fill your slate".
He is the cause to celebrate.

He healed her who for years had bled.
He raised a young girl from the dead.

He healed the mute, he healed the blind.
His deeds the Pharisees maligned.

He preached in each town he went through.
The harvest ready, workers few.

He said, "Disciples, off you go.
Israelites yes, Gentiles no.

And don't take cash, you're worth your bread.
Just drive out demons, raise the dead.

Give peace among the homes you stay.
But if refused, shake dust away.

Your message that must stay premier:
The kingdom heaven has is near.

The world will hate you 'cause of me.
A house will have disunity.

When they arrest you, things look bleak
Don't fret, for through you God will speak.

Don't fear those who your flesh control
But God who owns your flesh and soul.

He knows each bird, alive or dead.
He knows each hair upon your head.

Acknowledge me in front of men,
In front of God, I'll save you then.

Serve me or anyone I send
And you'll receive a dividend."

John asked, "It's you? or is there more?"
Christ said, "Good news preached to the poor".

"My messenger prepared a path,
but doubters doubt, and will get wrath.

God gets to choose who will be blessed.
Now come to me and you'll find rest."

On legal technicality
Can one heal abnormality?

When asked by teachers if he should,
"It's always lawful to do good."

With actions benedictory
he leads justice to victory.

Blaspheme the Spirit - no fresh start.
The words you say flow from your heart.

Ask not to see a miracle
Faith's not from the empirical.

Defining his own family:
"It's those who follow God's decree."

He told the crowd a parable
Said, "live in soil that's arable".

Some hear but don't hear God's command
But blessed are you who understand.

As wheat among the evil weeds,
As power inside mustard seeds,

As pearls or nets, be leaven-like,
That's what the reign of heaven's like.

He healed and had compassion on
The crowds after the death of John.

With bread and just a couple fish
He fed five thousand all they wished.

Christ walked on water faithfully
And if we're called to, so can we.

Don't have cold hearts like blinded fools.
Seek God, not mere religious rules.

The people fed, a girl set free
By faith and with humility.

Beware false teachers, right now, run.
Instead heed the Anointed One.

Though Jesus renamed Simon Rock
He soon became a stumbling block

To save your life, count it a loss.
To follow Christ, pick up your cross.

To gain the world, in part or whole
Is worthless if you lose your soul.

They hiked up to a mountain space
Where like the sun shined Jesus' face.

A cloud engulfed them, big and bright
Said God, "In my Son I delight".

A man approached the Lord and kneeled,
He begged for his son to be healed.

Disciples watched the spirit bout
As Jesus drove the demon out.

They asked, "Why couldn't we succeed?"
He said, "You lack the faith you need."

"Betrayed soon to the hands of men
I'll die and then I'll rise again.

Be humble like a little child.
Christ came to clean the most defiled.

Be bold, God is your guarantor.
Forgive, you've been forgiven more.

The rules aren't to be cut and spliced.
Be innocent, and follow Christ.

The Lord is just, so for him sweat.
Don't worry 'bout what others get.

The first to last, the last to first.
The perfect killed for the accursed."

Indignant at two brothers' nerve
Disciples learned - to be great, Serve.

Despite the crowd, two blind men plea.
"Have mercy Lord," soon they could see.

Into the city rode the king
To make himself an offering.

He drove out merchants to declare
His house shall be a house of prayer.

The children cheered. The fig tree died.
You can have all with prayer applied.

The leaders still he did confound.
Then with some parables expound.

What matters more; just what you say,
Or actions that you do today?

God won't reward those offered first
If they refuse him, they'll be cursed.

The party's on, so just say Yes
And clothe yourself with righteousness.

He wasn't trapped by a tax quiz:
"Give rulers theirs, and God what's his".

He answered next, "Have you not read?
God rules the living, not the dead."

They tried to test him on the Law.
"Love God. Love people. There, that's all."

Then Christ unleashed his diatribe
Against the Pharisees and scribes.

"They add new rules for men to reach
But do not practice what they preach.

All that they do's for men to see
Their tassels and phylacteries.

They love their titles and good seats
To be saluted in the streets.

Though they put up a clean facade,
They swear by gold and don't trust God.

A tenth of spices they collect
But Faith and Mercy they neglect.

They preach abroad but shut the door
On sinners, prophets, God and more.

They're self-indulgent hypocrites
Whose house has been made desolate.

Instead, be servants, you redeemed
Be humbled first, to be esteemed."

Discussing how the world would end,
Disciples said, "So, tell us when."

"First wars and famines, earthquakes too
Then they'll hate Jesus freaks like you.

The faith of many will erode
As wickedness makes love grow cold.

In all the world, good news extend.
The saved will stand firm to the end.

When "I am God" claims the accursed
Then flee and prepare for the worst.

Don't trust false prophets' sorcery
When Jesus comes back, all shall see.

Don't join the drunkards, that'd be dumb
Keep watch, you don't know when he'll come.

Keep watch with your light burning bright
So you'll be ready day or night.

Serve God with talents given you
Do not let fear and sloth accrue

When helping others, those in need,
God will reward you, guaranteed."

The bad guys met before the feast
To plot with Caiaphus the priest

To capture Jesus. Judas joins.
He'll trade Christ in for thirty coins.

A woman poured upon his head
Perfume, since soon he would be dead.

Christ said, once Passover was made,
"By one of you I'll be betrayed.

Now eat, and drink, my blood is poured
The price for sin, in God's accord.

You are my flock, but you'll take flight.
In fact, you'll fall away tonight.

Sit here while I go there to pray
I'm sad and filled with much dismay.

Keep watch or sin may on you sneak.
The spirit willing, body weak.

My Father, take this from my please.
But only as your will decrees."

Then Judas led a multitude
He kissed Christ and a fight ensued

Till Jesus said, "Put down your sword.
You think I couldn't stop this horde?

But all must pass as prophets said."
Then the disciples, they all fled.

They grabbed and led him off to court
Their witness did the truth distort.

The chief priest said, "Won't you reply?
Are you the Son of God Most High?"

"As you have said. Now from this hour
The Son of Man shall sit with power.

They cried, "We've heard from his own breath.
That's blasphemy, send him to death."

Questioned if he with Jesus ran,
Said Peter, "I don't know the man".

Then Judas, too, filled with remorse
Returned the money to its source.

The governor, now, for the Feast
Asked if they wanted Christ released.

The crowd did not want, he asked "Why?"
But they just shouted, "Crucify!"

The soldiers mocked the king with scorn
And capped him with a crown of thorns.

They crucified him, took his clothes
They mocked him to add to his woes.

"Though others he healed and forgave,
It seems himself he cannot save."

Then darkness came, though it was day,
"My God, why have you gone away?"

When Jesus died, the earth, it shook.
The soldiers shared a frightened look.

Now terrified, what had they done?
"For surely this man was God's son."

His body, wrapped, entombed it lay
A guard was posted night and day.

The Marys, shocked out of their gloom
An angel opened up the tomb!

The angel was like lightning, bright
The guards all nearly died of fright.

The angel said, "Don't be afraid.
Go see the place where he was laid.

Now he has risen from the dead.
Now go, for he has gone ahead."

They ran till Jesus they did meet.
They fell and worshipped at his feet.

Soon the disciples met him too
Some doubted while some worshipped true.

Said Jesus, "All authority
On earth and heaven giv'n to me.

Now go and all the nations reach
Disciple them, baptize and teach.

I am with you, at every stage,
Unto the very end of age."

To start this here Messiah note,
Look back to what Isaiah wrote.

"I'll send my messenger to say,
'Prepare your hearts, God comes this way.'"

Well that was John, who advertised
Repentence and to be baptized.

But he was clear, "The time is nigh,
There comes one mightier than I.

Into the water I put you,
But with the Spirit, he'll imbue."

Then Jesus came, and in he goes,
Then heaven opened as he rose.

From heaven came a voice with might,
"I love you, Son, in you delight".

Then sent out to the wilderness,
Was tempted and he passed the test.

"God's kingdom is at hand," he said.
"I'll make you fish for men instead."

He gathered followers to teach.
Went to the synagogue to preach.

He taught with such authority.
He made an unclean spirit flee.

He fixed a fever, then healed more.
The city gathered at their door.

Then early, 'fore the break of day,
He left the house alone to pray.

Told Simon, then, when he was found,
"Let's spread the news to other towns."

There came a man with leprosy
Who begged for help on bended knee.

"Please will you end my quarantine?"
"I will," said Jesus, then, "Be clean."

He healed a paralytic man.
Forgave his sins, "because I can".

Reclined by Matthew's dinner plate,
One asked why he with sinners ate.

"Who needs a doctor," he asked quick.
"It's not the healthy, but the sick."

Then, "Why don't your disciples fast?"
"They're with the bridegroom at long last."

"Why break the Sabbath as you do?"
"Because I'm Lord of Sabbath too."

So then a man with withered hand
Was healed at Jesus's command.

The Pharisees, now, quite annoyed
Decided he must be destroyed.

Then to the seaside he withdrew.
The crowd that followed grew and grew.

Then twelve he chose with him to be,
To preach and have authority.

Some said he's crazy or possessed.
Their blasphemy he did protest.

His family's those who do God's will.
Be seeds in soil that God tilled.

God's light is truth that must be shown.
His ways are bursting to be known.

Then with his crew out on a boat,
Concerned they wouldn't stay afloat,

While Jesus slept, disciples cry,
"Do you not care? We're gonna die!"

So Jesus woke and calmed the squall.
Said, "Really? Have you faith at all?"

A man whom evil spirit dooms
Was forced to live out in the tombs.

The demon shrieked as Jesus came.
Christ cast it out and asked its name.

Christ told the man, healed through and through.
"Go tell what God has done for you."

A woman who had suffered much
Thought she'd be cured with just one touch.

Said Christ, once power was released,
"Your faith has healed you, go in peace."

A man fell at his feet to plead,
"My daughter's sick, it's you we need."

Then someone came from up ahead.
"It is too late, your daughter's dead."

"Don't let fear make you misconceive."
Yeshua told him, "Just believe."

They met the mourners on the path.
"She's just asleep," but they all laughed.

He took the child by the hand.
"Young girl, I say to you now, stand."

He taught in his own country hence.
Astonished, still they took offense.

"A prophet may have world-renown,
But honor, none in his hometown."

He sent the twelve out two by two.
Commanded them on what to do.

"Take just the clothes upon your back.
Do not take money or a snack."

So to the other towns they went.
They healed and told the crowds, "Repent!"

Then Herod, paranoid with guilt,
About a man whose blood he'd spilt.

He feared John, but cut off his head.
Now feared he'd come back from the dead.

The twelve returned, then, from their quest.
Christ said, "Let's go and get some rest."

The crowd, though, found them, thousands deep.
To the Great Shepherd came the sheep.

So Jesus taught the multitude.
Told his disciples, "Get them food."

"That'd cost two hundred denarii."
"Well what food have you? Go and see."

They had about enough for ten,
But there were 'round five thousand men.

He looked to heaven. Broke the loaves.
They multiplied and fed the droves.

He made the twelve then sail away
While he went up the hill to pray.

Then in the middle of the night
They saw him and had quite a fright.

For he was walking on the sea.
"Fear not you guys," he said, "It's me."

They were amazed. Now understood.
Then Jesus went on doing good.

Asked why they ate with unwashed hands -
"You love men's rules, not God's commands."

"Such things are not what sin's about.
Not what goes in, but what comes out.

What comes out comes out from the heart,
In actions which they then take part.

He healed a Gentile girl and man.
He multiplied the food again.

The Pharisees came to dispute.
Christ shut them down, was resolute.

"Beware their faithless yeast," he said.
Disciples thought he meant the bread.

"You've been beside me, seen first hand.
How do you still not understand?"

He touched a blind man, made him well.
Sent him back home, said not to tell.

Near Cesearea Philippi,
"What say the people, who am I?"

"Elijah, John, the prophets too."
So then he asked, "Well what say you?"

"We know you're the Anointed One."
Then Christ explained what must be done.

"I'll be rejected, then be killed.
I'll rise," but Peter wasn't thrilled.

Rebuking Christ he said, "No way!"
"You're filled with Satan. Get away!"

You cannot serve the Father when
You have in mind the things of men.

"Disown yourself, my path to take.
To save your soul, lose for my sake.

Salvation, child, you cannot earn.
Call now, I'll call on my return."

Then Jesus, Peter, John and James
Went up a mountain, where proclaims

The Father, his voice in a cloud,
"I love my son," they heard aloud.

His clothes took on a dazzling sheen,
The whitest white they'd ever seen.

"Now hear him," said the voice revered.
Then suddenly it disappeared.

While walking down then Jesus said,
"Don't tell till I rise from the dead."

They came upon a crowd distressed
About a boy who was possessed.

"Please," begged the father, "cast it out."
First Jesus focused on his doubt.

"I do believe," he cried through grief,
"Help overcome my unbelief."

They left and went through Galilee.
Then Jesus taught them privately.

"The Son of Man will be betrayed,
Be killed and rise." They were afraid.

Then in Capernaum Jesus heard
Them arguing. Said, "What's the word?"

They'd argued, though no one confessed,
Of who among them was the best.

"To come in first, put yourself last.
As servant of mankind be cast."

"To serve a child is to serve God.
Whoever serves mine, I'll applaud."

"What causes sin in you, cut out.
Stay useful, peaceful, pure, devout."

Asked 'bout a loophole on divorce -
"Go back to the initial source.

What God has joined, don't rip apart.
Let go the hardness of your heart."

As children do, accept God's reign.
In time, all worldly wealth is vain.

"What you give up for me, behold:
You will get back a hundredfold."

His death, again, he told the twelve.
But they just fought amongst themselves.

"You know of state authority.
Pow'r doesn't work the same with me.

I am a ransom - why I came.
See how I serve and do the same."

Against the crowds a blind man braved.
"Go. By your faith you have been saved."

He rode into Jerusalem.
"Hosanna!" cried those hailing him.

The temple, then, he walked into.
The vendors' tables overthrew.

"A house of prayer this should have been.
You've turned it to a robber's den."

He cursed a fig tree, then explained
By prayer all things can be attained.

The chief priests tried to set a trap.
He turned it 'round and trapped them back.

A parable about a farm,
'Bout broken trust and brutal harm

Showed priestly culpability
For failed responsibility.

For God Himself they had disowned.
Rejected, then, His cornerstone.

To inquiry nefarious
Christ held up a denarius.

"Give Caesar that which has his face.
Give God the things he put in place."

The Sadducees said, "How 'bout this?"
Christ showed them how they were amiss.

"Which is the best command we'll find?"
"Love God with heart, soul, strength, and mind."

"Beware conceited scribes, whereas
The widow there gave all she has."

"All man's construction will not last."
"Please tell us when these things will pass."

"Don't know exactly. There'll be signs.
Like famines, earthquakes, troubled times.

There will be wars. You'll be attacked.
Don't let betrayals make you retract.

When led to rulers, don't dismay.
Your God will give you what to say.

When blasphemy hits its apex.
Unmatched oppression will come next.

Don't heed the false christs in the crowds.
I'll come with glory in the clouds.

I've told you. Take heed not to botch.
I say to all - Be ready. Watch."

A woman that some thought bizarre,
She broke an alabaster jar.

She poured the oil on his head.
"It's my embalming," Jesus said.

Then Judas went with treason mad
Which made the chief priests very glad.

Meanwhile disciples went to meet
Preparing for a place to eat.

They went and found the upper room
Where they'd eat the last supper soon.

He broke the bread and poured the wine.
"Take in this flesh and blood of mine."

"Tonight you'll stumble, might be dazed.
I'll see you after I am raised."

Said Peter, "They might fail. Not me."
"You'll fail me not one time, but three."

"No. Even if I have to die,
There's no way that you I'll deny."

Then Jesus, troubled, went to pray.
He asked his men to watch and stay.

He went ahead, fell to his knees.
"Abba, don't make me do this please.

You can do all things, even now.
Not what I will," he said, "but Thou."

Asleep he found that recent vower.
"Could you not watch for just one hour?"

Went two more times to pray, then done,
Woke them again. "The time has come."

"Hi Rabbi," Judas nicely feigned.
ID'd, now Jesus was detained.

"You've come with swords like I'm a thief.
But all this to fulfill the brief."

Before the council testified
Collective witnesses who lied.

"Are you the Christ, Son of the Blessed?"
The chief priest asked. He answered yes.

"That's blasphemy! Now he must die."
They struck him and said, "Prophesy!"

A maid saw Peter standing, fraught.
Said, "You are with him." "No I'm not."

"You talk like him. You're in his pod."
"I don't know him. I swear to God!"

To Pilate, Jesus they did bring.
"Well," Pilate asked, "are you their king?"

"So you say," he answered short,
And that would be his last retort.

So Pilate trotted Jesus out.
"Now crucify," the crowd did shout.

"What, crucify? Why, for what crime?"
They shouted louder yet this time.

They mocked and beat him, then they hung
Him on the cross, and insults flung.

Three hours darkness filled the sky.
"You have forsaken me God. Why?"

Then as his final breath he drew,
The temple curtain tore in two.

So then a man well-known in town,
He asked to take the body down.

Laid Jesus in the tomb he owned
And closed the entrance with a stone.

Three women, once the Sabbath passed,
Went to the tomb, were flabbergast.

Because the giant stone was rolled.
"You'll see him soon, just as he told."

The young man speaking wore all white,
Was sitting calmly on the right.

"Don't be amazed. Though he was dead,
He's risen and has gone ahead."

Yeshua met with Mary first,
Then two who 'cross a field traversed.

Apostles didn't think it real
Till Jesus showed up at their meal.

Rebuking them, he then declared,
"Go preach the good news everywhere.

Those who believe, such faith saves them.
But those who don't will be condemned."

Then up to heaven, magnified.
He sat down at the Father's side.

With miracles to validate,
Disciples preached salvation great

God made the virgin have a boy.
Made John the fetus leap for joy.

Let two old people hold the king.
Let Jesus learn and Mary sing.

Sent John out to the wild to stay.
Sent Jesus to him, then said “Hey”.

He used the Word to beat Deceit.
Fulfilled the scroll and dodged the heat.

Called average men to follow him.
He healed the sick, forgave their sin.

Christ healed on weekdays, weekends too.
Prayed for the Twelve the whole night through.

He told us to love those who hate.
He said to give to those who take.

He blessed the poor from on the mount.
And said it’s what’s inside that counts.

Blind see, deaf hear, dead rise, lame run.
What man can’t do, God does for fun.

Told stories using debts and seeds.
He is the light the whole world needs.

When storms got rough he calmed the waves.
The crazy, bleeding, dead he saves.

The Twelve he sent to roads ahead.
Then thousands ate his fish and bread.

God showed the Twelve he was the One.
Then made his face bright as the sun.

You must be low to be the best.
To follow Christ, forget the rest.

God sent more out, who then returned.
The unrepentant will be burned.

Have compassion, don’t just hurry.
Learn and listen, don’t just worry.

Ask for the bread you need to live.
Ask of God, he loves to give.

Jesus blessed the righteous deed.
Then condemned the leaders’ greed.

Speak up for Christ, that is your part.
For what you value gets your heart.

Work for the Father, not for pay.
Act like he’ll return today.

To please the Lord, do as he bids.
To honor God, just love his kids.

Big change comes from small, like yeast.
To come in first, first be the least.

Be humble when you choose your seat,
And share with poor folks when you eat.

You must recognize the cost
To follow Christ and find the lost.

At death, life cannot be redone.
It’s God or money, choose just one.

Flee sin, grow faith for all your days.
Heaven’s your reward, not praise.

Christ healed to teach us faith is dear.
God’s kingdom is already here.

Our God can use bad men for good.
If you don’t know you’re bad, you should.

Trust God like little children do.
For Christ did not just ride the pew.

Your faith must be in God not wealth.
A blind man’s faith restored his health.

Employ your gifts ‘cause more he’ll bring.
Jesus entered town as King.

He said the city’d be destroyed.
At temple, crowds were overjoyed.

He condemned the leaders acts.
Give God your heart, the state its tax.

Beware those who will not repent.
Give like the widow, every cent.

He foretold Tribulation’s hurt.
The Lord told Christians, “Stay alert”.

Then sin in Judas cut a deal.
Jesus served the Passover meal.

He said to lead you first must serve.
Told Peter that he’d lose his nerve.

While Jesus prayed, disciples slept.
Then from the darkness, Judas crept.

With swords they fought for his release.
But Jesus, he maintained the peace.

Peter cried, felt like a traitor.
Christ said he’d sit by the Creator.

Then Pilate gave in to the horde.
With criminals, they killed the Lord.

The sun went dark, the curtain ripped.
They laid his body in a crypt.

But in the tomb he didn’t stay.
The stone was shortly rolled away.

Inside instead two dazzling men,
Told those with Mary Magdalene:

“He has risen, like he said,
Why look for Life among the dead?”

The Scripture Christ interpreted.
Revealed himself by breaking bread.

Then the disciples touched him, awed.
He said they’d preach his life abroad.

He blessed them, then went in the sky.
Forever praise the Lord on high.

Before creation was the Word,
And through him light and life occurred.

Before the world, the light was there.
But many people do not care.

To save us he became a man.
Those who believe can join the fam.

The Father sent a man named John,
Who saw the Spirit rest upon

One greater, who as always been:
The Lamb of God, who conquers sin.

Disciples joined the Christ divine.
He turned the water into wine.

Brought temple merchants their demise.
Predicted he’d be killed and rise.

Be born of Spirit, from above.
God sacrificed his son for love.

We’re judged for doing what’s not right.
But cleared if we come to the light.

Then John said as he neared his end:
“He is the Christ, I’m just a friend.”

He offered living water free.
Said food was doing God’s decree.

He healed a boy from miles away,
And healed a man on Saturday.

He’s self-existent, Jesus is.
Authority to judge is his.

It’s by the Father he was sent,
Foretold in the Old Testament.

Two fish and bread he did transform.
Then walked on water in a storm.

Then Jesus said to eat his flesh,
Which thinned the crowds; the truth will thresh.

He spoke up halfway through the feast.
The crowds amazed, but not the priests.

For glory’s meant for God alone,
But some men want it for their own.

From out of Jesus, water flows.
Forgives, although your sin he knows.

Again he said he was the light.
The Father’s witness proves he’s right.

Sin captures us in slavery.
He taught the truth, which sets us free.

They claimed: men die, like Abraham.
“Before he was,” Christ said, “I Am.”

He healed a beggar blind from birth,
Who testified, “He’s not from earth.”

He’s the shepherd, we’re the sheep.
He’s the gate no thief can leap.

He said then, “God and I are one.
I do his works. I am his Son.”

Those who opposed him ranted, raved.
Across the Jordan, more were saved.

He paused, for our sakes, then arrived
Long after Lazarus had died.

He called for Mary, up she leapt.
Fell at his feet, then Jesus wept.

Went to the tomb, then with a shout,
He called to Lazarus, “Come out!”

Though some took miracles as proof,
The Pharisees went through the roof.

So, desperate to hold on to pow’r,
They planned to kill him from that hour.

At dinner Mary poured perfume,
In preparation for the tomb.

Into Jerusalem he rode.
As on him blessings were bestowed.

His heart felt troubled, time had come.
A voice came down to strengthen some.

Be careful not to be like those
Who, man’s praise over God’s, they chose.

To teach them love, he washed their feet.
Gave his betrayer bread to eat.

“So love, as you’re loved by the Son.
Now where I’m going, you can’t come.”

He said to Peter, who asked why,
“Just knowing me you’ll soon deny.”

“I’m going to prepare a place.
You’ve seen the Father in my face.”

“I am the life, the truth, the way.
Keep my commands, and in me stay.”

“You are the branches, I’m the vine.
The garden’s God’s. What’s his is mine.”

“Though soon I leave, I will be back.
You’ll have the Spirit and nothing lack.”

“So love each other and have peace.
The joy you get will never cease.”

He gave us life, said what that meant:
Just knowing God and whom he sent.

He prayed for us, the gloried Son,
That we’d be holy, safe, and one.

So knowing where they’d be that night,
Then Judas came prepared to fight.

The soldiers fell down to the ground,
But Jesus let himself be bound.

Poor Pete, before the cock could crow,
Asked if he followed Christ, said “No”.

Then mocked and beaten without ruth,
Christ said, “I only speak the truth”.

Shown Jesus in a thorny ring,
They shouted, “Caesar is our king”.

He spoke while being crucified.
Said “It is finished,” then he died.

All life to prophesy adheres:
- They took his clothes as souvenirs.
- Gave vinegar when his lips dried.
- They broke no bones, but pierced his side.

With aloe, myrrh, and linen clothes,
Entombed he lie in death’s repose.

Then Sunday, it was not yet dawn,
When Mary found his body gone.

So Peter ran, as Mary grieved.
Then John went in, and he believed.

His corpse she wanted to reclaim,
Till Jesus called her by her name.

To the disciples he appeared
Three times as his departure neared.

“We’ve seen the Lord!”, their joyous shout.
But Thomas still was filled with doubt,

Until he touched his hands and side.
“My Lord, my God!” he then replied.

Christ said to Peter, “Feed my lambs.
Don’t worry ‘bout my other plans.”

If all his actions were unfurled,
To write it down would fill the world.

Don’t worry o’er God’s every plan,
Just the one he has for you, man.

The traitor’s gain was fast erased.
By lot and prayer he was replaced.

The Spirit came like howling wind.
They spoke so crowds could comprehend.

Then Peter preached what God devised:
To change your heart and be baptized.

Peter taught, then in Jesus’ name,
Healed a man who since birth was lame.

Experts said they were a bother.
Heed not humans, but the Father.

They prayed to be both brave and wise.
They grew in faith and strength and size.

Believers all lived side by side.
One couple lied to God, then died.

The Word spread quickly, more believed.
The sick and vexed were both relieved.

The high priest jailed them with a smirk.
God led them out and back to work.

Confronted by the council still.
By Pharisees who fought God’s will.

So Peter testified again,
To change your heart, repent your sin.

Then Stephen, picked to dole out food,
Did speak the word of God when cued.

And as his eyes toward heav’n did reach,
The council stoned him for his speech.

Though strewn, the church preached as they went,
And Philip taught where he was sent.

And by the laying on of hands,
The Spirit came to foreign lands.

A vision gave St. Pete the nod
Of grace for all who worship God.

Then James was killed by Herod’s scheme.
Who died ignoring Elohim.

Now Saul wreaked havoc on the Way,
Till traveling the road one day:

When Christ appeared in heav’nly light,
He questioned Saul and took his sight.

To Gentiles, kings and Jews God reached.
Once chief tormenter, now Paul preached.

He silenced those preventing growth.
Explained how Christ fulfilled God’s oath.

From town to town he preached the news.
Some would accept him, some abuse.

His team went where the Spirit led
from riverbank to prison bed.

Explaining Jesus’ sufferings
To those who worshipped manmade things.

In Athens, Corinth, and Achaia,
Scripture proved who was Messiah.

As God made all who touched Paul cured.
He stayed two years till all had heard.

The pattern often was the same:
He’d come to town, spread Jesus’ name,

Speak fearlessly in every place,
The gospel of our good God’s grace.

Some would believe and get the Spirit.
Others though refused to hear it.

Performing miracles divine,
He’d comfort Christians, then consign

Them to the Lord, and off he’d run
To the next town, God’s will be done.

And knowing trouble lie ahead,
Friends begged “Go somewhere else instead”.

But God’s will Paul did not resist,
Jerusalem was on the list.

The mob, to anger was enticed
By those who would deny the Christ.

Before they could inflict death’s pains,
The military came with chains.

One last time Paul was arrested.
To the crowd he still attested:

"Christ suffered, died and rose again
To bring light to all girls and men.”

Four years in jail, his final chapters:
Transferred, shipwrecked, calmed his captors.

In Rome, with visits under guard,
He preached of God and Christ unmarred.

Know this truth in every nation:
God has offered you salvation.

A servant of the gospel, who
Was set apart for Christ, like you.

While serving sinners far from home
Wrote to the saints who live in Rome.

Have grace and peace to you from God.
Reports of your true faith are broad.

I long to see you, comfort each.
To wise and foolish both I preach.

The gospel is transformative.
By faith the righteous one shall live.

God's evidence is every place.
You'll get his wrath if not his grace.

Fools won't give thanks or glorify.
They've traded truth in for a lie.

To the Creator they won't sing.
They worship mere created things.

God let them go, pursue their lust,
Choose evil and be covetous.

They're filled with malice, greed and strife,
With words and deeds despairing life.

They're proud, they brag and cause offense.
They have no mercy, love, or sense.

And though they know such things aren't right,
With those who do them, they delight.

But woah, hold up, do not condemn.
You've done the wrong thing, just like them.

You're not the judge, leave that to God.
Toward reformation he does prod.

But when his day of wrath does come,
He'll give to each for what they've done.

Pursue the good and he will bless.
Choose evil, and get much distress.

Behavior will not get you in.
You know the law, yet still you sin.

When people see bad things you do
God's name is blasphemed 'cause of you.

God cares not how your look's arranged.
God praises those whose hearts are changed.

God's faithfulness 'cross time has stood.
Law makes us conscious, but not good.

For righteousness comes as a gift
From Christ who heals our fatal rift.

Because we're equal, none can boast.
Uphold the law with faith foremost.

What says the past, like Abe and Dave
About the righteousness God gave?

Was it from works, something they earned?
No. God forgave them, court adjourned.

So must you get an outward seal?
Again, your actions ain't the deal.

It's for his faith Abram was prized.
Made righteous first, then circumcised.

His offspring's not just those conceived.
He's father of all who believe.

What's impossible, yet God saith,
If you believe, well, that's faith.

Belive in Jesus, what God did,
As righteous you'll be credited.

At peace with God, we now can cope
With suffering which leads to hope.

Hope of God's glory from above
Because he filled our hearts with love.

Self-sacrifice for innocents -
Uncomommon, but there's precedents.

God's love, though, is unparalleled.
He gave his son as we rebelled.

Now reconciled, our sentence waived,
We boast in Him by whom we're saved.

Just as through Adam death has reigned,
Through Jesus, righteousness is gained.

The Law reveals sin's lurking place.
In death, sin reigns. In life, it's grace.

More sin increases grace, it's true.
That doesn't mean it's good to do.

Through baptism you died to sin
So that a new life could begin.

A life for God, a life controlled
By righteousness, not by sin's hold.

Serve by the Spirit, free from Law,
Though at the flesh sin still may gnaw.

With God or flesh are you aligned?
The answer's where you set your mind.

The minds on flesh, sin's all they see.
Toward God in constant enmity.

The minds on Spirit, as God's heirs,
They care for what the Spirit cares.

Creation all longs to be healed.
Through us God's glory is revealed.

We crave redemption in our bones.
The Spirit intercedes with groans.

Predestined, called, and justified.
In Jesus' likeness, glorified.

If God is for us, who's against?
He gave his Son and grace dispensed.

God's love stays with us, that's for sure,
And through it makes us conquerers.

By works or birth you cannot tell.
God's promise makes you Israel.

He says he'll have compassion on
Those whom he'll have compassion on.

If God decides to use a man
To show his power, well, he can.

And if you say, "hey that's not fair",
You question God? How do you dare?

For he's the potter, we're the clay.
He might make vessels to display

His power to make his glory known
To vessels he made for his own.

He makes those fall who think they could
Just work their way to being good.

The path is Christ, that stumbling stone.
You cannot get there on your own.

For none knows God who won't confess
That Jesus IS God's righteousness.

Who calls on his name will be saved.
His message on our hearts engraved.

Some hear the good news but reject.
Hearts hardened unlike the elect.

So did they stumble beyond hope?
The God of promises says, "Nope".

The covenant, like olive tree,
Can graft into the family

The whole among the human race
God chooses by his own good grace.

And those cut off can gain relief
When they reject their unbelief.

Don't be conceited, you got in,
But not by works avoiding sin.

In disobedience we fall
And God has mercy on us all.

The depths of God man has not known.
He takes no counsel but his own.

To truly worship, Paul's advice
Is be a living sacrifice.

Do not abide by this world's norm.
To know God's will, your mind transform.

As different parts, in Christ we dwell.
Just play your part, and play it well.

Abhor the evil. Hold the good.
Be kind amongst the brotherhood.

See others honored before you.
Serve God with zeal and fervor too.

In hope, rejoice. In trials, endure.
That you pray faithfully, ensure.

Then share with others what they lack.
When someone hurts you, don't hurt back.

Now share in sadness, share in joy.
Be equals with the hoi polloi.

Don't be conceited. Live at peace.
If vengeance has your hold, release.

Though evil fights you, don't succumb.
By goodness, evil's overcome.

The Lord established government.
To its authority, relent.

Now love your neighbor, do not yaw.
Love is fulfillment of the Law.

Awake! Don't live as if it's night.
Put on the armor of the light.

Don't let your mind be flesh-enticed,
But clothe yourself with Jesus Christ.

Accept the one whose faith is weak.
God's servant you shall not critique.

While some are shoeless, some are shod,
And both can walk their walk with God.

Don't cause your brother's stumblings.
Don't argue over minor things.

Bear with the failings of the weak.
It's not your own pleasure you seek.

Build up your neighbor for his good.
Praise God together as you should.

Accept each other, when you do,
That's like how Christ accepted you.

In service Jesus spent his days
That all the world would give God praise.

And in like manner, Paul was spurred
To preach to those who had not heard.

Then as his work was near its end
He greeted many saints and friends.

Watch out for those who would cause fights
While serving their own appetites.

Through Jesus and the news sublime,
To God be glory all the time.

To: God's church in Corinth and to all
On whom the name of Jesus call.

From: Sosthenes, and in his scrawl,
with grace and truth, Apostle Paul.

You're rich in gifts, filled to the brim.
Your strength from fellowship with Him.

But are you fighting with your brother?
Have no division with each other.

It doesn't matter who's your preacher.
We all are following one Teacher.

Our message, foolish to the lost,
To praise a man killed on a cross.

But man's intelligence turns sour.
We know the cross shows God's true power.

It pleases God for recompense
A way the world thinks don't make sense.

The world's made knowledge deified.
But God's wisdom was crucified.

Did God choose you 'cause you were great?
More likely so there's no debate.

When you succeed, don't be adored.
Let glory belong to the Lord.

I came in weakness, not with brains.
So all your faith in God remains.

We value wisdom, just not man's.
The secret wisdom of God's plans.

No eye has seen, no ear has heard
God's plans for those who love his Word.

Revealed by God, we know because
We know because the Spirit does.

It's not by senses we have learned.
These things are spiritually discerned.

But since there's jealousy and strife,
It's clear the flesh still rules your life.

God gave me seeds, told me to sow.
But only God can make them grow.

Once true foundation has been laid,
Accepting Christ, your debts are paid.

Then what you build, create, or birth -
The meaning of your life on earth.

Your work pours from your heart's desire,
And Judgment Day's refining fire

Reveals eternal quality,
Or worldly, base frivolity.

So if your work is for the Lord
You will receive a big reward.

But if, when judged, your works combust,
You will be saved, but only just.

A servant, then, is duty-bound,
And always must be faithful found.

Our mission is not to indict.
The Lord will bring the truth to light.

As motive of each heart surveys,
He'll give, as due, each soul his praise.

What's pride but misattribution?
Praising man for God's contribution.

You think that you know everything.
Who went and died and made you king?

The world gives Christians no regard.
God values what the world discards.

You're proud? There's sin. Do you not know?
A little yeast works through the dough.

Cast out immoral men and grieve.
- I don't mean those who don't believe.

But those inside the brotherhood.
If they love sin, throw out for good.

If Christian One takes Two to court,
Does that our claim of peace support?

Don't let disputes become prolonged.
Just do the right thing and be wronged.

You once were wicked, but were washed.
Make sure all sin in you is squashed.

You're one with Jesus, therefore flee
All sexual immorality.

God bought you, and at quite a price
Your body isn't meant for vice.

It's good if you abstain from sex,
And live for God in all respects.

But if temptation seems too great,
Let every person find their mate.

So wife to husband, husband-wife,
Share bodies like you share your life.

No matter what your status is.
God called you, now your life is his.

The cares of life of most import:
Keep God's commands - for life is short.

Let's take a moment to speak of
What knowledge is compared to love.

While knowledge puffs your chest way out,
Love builds up someone filled with doubt.

Example on which can be chewed
Is idol-designated food.

You know that idols are not real.
But what's a weaker person feel?

They may see you and think it odd.
Unsure if you serve only God.

Your knowledge knows that food is fine.
But Love puts others first in line.

Be careful exercising rights
Does not for others cause more plights.

Now preachers have a right to pay.
But blessed if they preach anyway.

While athletes win a prize that rots,
Eternal life with God does not.

Know there are people God has saved,
But does not like how they behaved.

'Cause they love idols, booze, and sex,
Complain about how God directs.

From them you see what not to do.
Look out for traps to fall into.

Though tempted by the flesh's sway,
Seek God and you can get away.

Flee idols and avoid their feasts.
Do not join demons with God's priests.

We have such freedom, all is God's.
All is permitted that him lauds.

The question ain't "Is this allowed"
But "Is it loving?", as you've vowed.

Keep customs of propriety.
Keep union and sobriety.

When you commune as one big church,
Be earnest as your heart you search.

The Spirit has not any rifts.
There is one God, but many gifts.

Like wisdom, knowledge, mighty deeds.
Like prophesy, the faith one needs,

Discerning spirits, healing pain,
To speak in tongues, or to explain.

The Spirit works as he decides,
Through Christians in whom he abides.

You're in the body, not in charge.
Don't worry if your part is large.

Each part has its own part to play
'Cause God arranged it that-a-way.

What God has joined let no one split.
Share pain and joy when you're close knit.

Yet with all gifts from up above,
You still gain nothing without love.

Love is patient, love is kind.
Your past mistakes it does not find.

Love protects and perseveres.
It trusts and hopes, with truth it cheers.

Love does not seek itself the most.
It does not envy, does not boast.

Love never fails, is not provoked.
It does not need its ego stroked.

When all is known, we see the scope.
These three remain: faith, love, and hope.

To speak in tongues, to God you cry,
But prophesy with edify.

All sorts of tumult you must cease.
For God brings order, God brings peace.

Now don't lose sight of the main point.
Just as foretold, God did anoint
The Christ to die and be revived.
Appeared to hundreds now alive.

If this were not true, we'd be toast,
And Christians would be pitied most.

This life, if that's it, one might think
Let's party now, just eat and drink.

Don't be misled, bad company
Corrupts good character in thee.

For as in Adam none survive,
The risen Christ makes all alive.

The physical is made from earth,
And it has no immortal worth.

To live forever we must wear
The clothes of heaven Christ prepared.

Stand firm and never go astray.
Work for the Lord will always pay.

Collection for the saints who lead.
Protection for the servant, heed.

Stay strong, stand firm, and be on guard.
Have courage, and love when it's hard.

Devoted ministers are prized.
Such servants should be recognized.

All those who hate the Lord, dismiss.
Believers greet with sacred kiss.

Corinthians, again Paul wrote,
And all the saints who read this note,

Praise God who comforts each of us
So that to others we're a plus.

In comfort or in great despair,
As one in Christ all things we share.

Let's not upon ourselves rely,
But set our hope on God on high.

Act always with sincerity.
Anoint your heart with charity.

Now when correcting one another,
Forgive, do not use shame to smother.

The news of Christ, like fragrant breath,
Of life to some, to others death.

The only accolade you need
Is Spirit in the hearts you feed.

The Law was written down in stone,
And through the Law God's glory shone.

And while the Law from heaven stems,
The letter of the Law condemns.

So how much more is glory rife
In ministry that brings true life?

The old was good, the new is best.
New covenant brings righteousness.

For through the veil, none has sufficed.
The only way is Jesus Christ.

Turn to the Lord, get liberty,
And unveiled glory you shall see.

We speak the truth, with God aligned.
Some do not get it 'cause they're blind.

The one who said, "Let there be light",
Shines on your heart to give you sight.

It's not from us, mere jars of clay,
But through us God his pow'r displays.

When trouble comes, he's there to guide.
When death is near, life he provides.

So don't give up though flesh decays,
Our true selves are renewed each day.

Our troubles, tiny, when compared
To future glory God's prepared.

The things you see will fade real fast.
The unseen are the things that last.

We're burdened by this flesh and bone,
For our eternal form we groan.

The Spirit is our guarantee.
We walk by faith, not what we see.

We'd rather be at home with God.
We work for his approving nod.

We fear the Lord. Men we persuade
To live for God, not accolade.

We see not flesh when we see you.
Once you're in Christ, you're something new.

Christ paid for sin, though undefiled.
God's calling you, be reconciled.

Don't waste his grace, for once you vow
To live for God, the time is now.

Now don't do anything that would
Make church seem anything but good.

When hit with troubles or distressed,
Show with what guidance you've been blessed.

If you are beaten, jailed or robbed,
Return just kindness to the mob.

When weary, hungry, do not fear,
You have the Holy Spirit near.

You've been made righteous, truly speak
Through glory or in harsh critique.

No matter what, be rejoicing.
In God you now have everything.

Don't partner with the faithless souls
Who've different gods and different goals.

"Be set apart. Don't be defiled.
I'll be your God, and you my child."

With godly sorrow, no regret.
Repentence and life better yet.

But worldly sorrow does not mend.
Its path to death leads in the end.

Then next Paul wrote on how to give.
First to the Lord, with how you live.

Then by your means, with willing mind.
When heart is right, the gift is fine.

It's privilege to serve this way.
Help others, you'll be helped one day.

Have much, but don't get out of whack,
and those with little shall not lack.

Be generous, get back a lot.
Sow sparingly, get diddlly squat.

Give from the heart, not doubt or fear.
God loves it when you give with cheer.

All grace and needs God has purveyed
To do the work for which you're made.

He'll swell the harvest of your ways.
Then you give more, he gets more praise.

We fight not for this earthen clod.
We fight ideas that deny God.

Don't be like those who are not wise,
Who think they're great in their own eyes.

Don't boast for credit that's undue.
Boast of the purpose God gave you.

False prophets might create a buzz
The way the Adversary does.

For they beguile, corrupt, and bend,
But get what's fitting in the end.

No matter how your strength may tower,
In weakness God shows his true power.

In weakness Christ was crucified,
But by God's power, he's alive.

And this same power is in you,
If you're in Christ, your faith is true.

Rely on Jesus, do no wrong.
When I am weak, then I am strong.

So be made perfect, of one mind.
Have peace and cheer and comfort find.

Have love for God. From Jesus, grace.
And Spirit in a close embrace.

Believers, wrote Apostle Paul,
I'm shocked how quickly you would fall.

Away from truth, the only one
Revealed by Jesus Christ the Son.

For men's approval, do not ask.
For God perform your holy task.

Thos who love God will give him praise
For enemies who change their ways.

The pillars Peter, John and James
Accepted Paul who grace proclaims.

Though Paul opposed Saint Peter when
He added rules, was scared of men.

By rules no one is justified.
Instead by Christ the crucified.

I died with him, no longer lawed.
I died that I might live with God.

Now answer this and don't be fools:
The Spirit comes by faith or rules?

It's faith, and always has been too.
"All nations will be blessed through you."

This promise Abraham received.
His kids would be those who believed.

Relying on the law, you're cursed.
Law comes from sin, and faith came first.

God promised, "You shall have these lands".
Years later came the Ten Commands.

By sin the world is overrun.
Get life, by faith, in Holy One.

Once you belong to Christ, then there
You are a son of God, an heir.

An heir, with rights which that imparts.
With Spirit living in your hearts.

So don't go back, don't be enslaved
by rituals your old self craved.

You're known by God, serve him always.
Not just on special hours or days.

Should you be zealous? Yes you should.
Provided that the cause is good.

Hagar and Sarah represent
Two different kinds of covenant.

One is earth-bound slavery.
The other Promise, Heaven, Free.

Messiah freed you. Stand firm then.
Don't be enslaved by rules again.

If righteousness by rules you chase,
You lose the righteousness from grace.

Awaiting our hope from above,
All that counts is faith shown by love.

Your freedom lets you start afresh.
Don't use it to indulge the flesh.

Just love your neighbor every day.
That's all the Law means anyway.

The flesh and Spirit are opposed.
Choose one, the other is deposed.

Pursue the Spirit, you won't pine
For things which you were not designed.

Like drunkenness, debauchery,
Nor hatred and idolatry.

Not lewdness, envy, fits of rage.
It is the flesh these thing engage.

Pursue the Spirit, what ensues
Is love, joy, peace, and patience too.

And kindness, goodness, self-control.
Those are results, God is the goal.

Walk with the Spirit, don't be vain.
Restore each other, don't arraign.

Think of the flesh, you'll be destroyed.
Of God, then life with Him enjoyed.

Those dwelling on rules to obey
And keep them all. Just ask: do they?

They only do this to avoid
The hate toward Christ that's been deployed.

I boast of one thing, Jesus Christ,
Whose grace and mercy have sufficed

To add unto his repetoire -
The new creation that you are.

Peace to the saints in Ephesus.
Praise to the God who blesses us.

He chose us, then came to redeem,
Revealed the plan of Christ's regime.

All things work out to His ideal.
He gave the Spirit as a seal.

May you know God, now, more and more.
The hope for you he has in store.

God's power raised Christ from the dead
And placed him as the church's head.

We each have walked a sinful path
And for our deeds deserve God's wrath.

Yet still he saved a hopeless case
To show the riches of his grace.

A gift, there's nothing you can do,
Although he has work planned for you.

By peace with all believers, gel.
Together in you God will dwell.

All tribes of humans, unified
Can know Christ's love, so deep and wide.

Now live a life that's worthy of
This calling. You've been called to love.

With patience and humility,
In bonds of peace, keep unity.

One God, one Spirit, and one Lord.
One body acting in accord.

One body filled with many gifts
That isn't fooled and never drifts.

But being true to love instead,
We grow to Christ, who is the Head.

Live not like those whom sin confounds,
Whose lust for sex, it knows no bounds.

The old is gone, your mind is new.
Holy and righteous God made you.

Don't lie, or even talk corrupt.
Use words to build another up.

Don't steal. Help your community.
Give Hell no opportunity.

And when you're angry, don't choose bad.
Don't make the Holy Spirit sad.

No malice, fighting, bitter rage.
Be kind - Forgive as Christ forgave.

So follow God. Love others thus:
As Jesus gave himself for us.

Avoid filth and obscenity.
You're saints. Those are idolatry.

To worship sex or greed ain't right.
Once you were darkness. Now you're light.

The light shows what is good, right, true.
Rise from the dead, Christ shines on you.

Live wisely, make the most of time.
Not dissolute with too much wine.

Filled with the Spirit, singing songs
That praise God. Thank him all day long.

Now to each other, each submit,
As reverence for the Lord befits.

Submit, then, to authority,
With God as your priority.

In leadership, now, God's way search.
Love charges like Christ loves the church.

In God and in his pow'r, be strong,
So you can fight against what's wrong.

It's not with people that we fight,
But with the rulers of the night.

Put on God's armor, his command,
To fight the evil, then to stand.

The belt of truth around your waist.
In front of you, the shield of faith.

With righteousness across you spread,
And with salvation on your head.

With news of peace may you be shod.
Your sword, it is the Word of God.

With perseverance, always pray.
With grace and love along the way.

Here Paul and Timothy say Hi
To all the saints in Philippi.

I thank God in my prayers for you.
To spread the good news as you do.

By love may your good judgment grow,
So from you righteous fruit may flow.

In chains or freedom we will preach
Whatever grows the gospel's reach.

In heaven or on earth remain,
To live is Christ, to die is gain.

Be worthy. Fear not. Realize
To suffer for him is a prize.

If you feel God's love in your soul
Then work together toward the goal.

Don't act from rivalry or pride.
With others' needs, be occupied.

It's as a servant Jesus came,
Though every knee bows to his name.

Salvation - work yours out with fear,
With God inside to make things clear.

Live out your life here blamelessly.
A light for all the world to see.

My deeds I now count meaningless,
For only faith brings righteousness.

And though I do not have it yet,
God's prize pursue, the past forget.

So follow those who live this way,
Not those who earthly things obey.

Our hope is in the splendorous
Where Jesus will transfigure us.

Beloved, stand firm in the Lord.
Help others live in one accord.

Rejoice all day. In all, forbear.
Don't worry. Kneel to God in prayer.

With thankfulness, ask and release,
and you'll get transcendental peace.

Now think of good things of the light,
What's pure and lovely, true and right.

Make what I've shown the thing you do.
The God of peace will be with you.

When times are great or things are rough,
With Jesus I'll have strength enough.

Thanks for your help, it helped indeed.
The Lord will give you all you need.

To God the glory. Friends, we call.
The grace of Christ is with you all.

To all the saints in Colossae,
We thank God for you when we pray.

For of your faith and love we've heard,
Which comes from hope, sprung from the Word.

Good news bears fruit across the land.
We pray you'll fully understand.

That you may walk a worthy route
That pleases God and bears good fruit.

With joy show patience by his might.
He gave us places in the light.

He saves us from the dark domain
And brought us into Jesus' reign.

Creation all by him was made
And in him everything has stayed.

Of the assembly, he's the head.
To reconcile, his blood was shed.

Though once from God you were estranged,
By faith and Christ's death you were changed.

Called to explain the mystery
Once hidden, now for saints to see.

Our hope of glory breaking through.
The mystery is: Christ lives in you.

So walk with him in faith that grows
And thankfulness that overflows.

Don't fall for vain philosophy.
In Christ dwells the full Deity.

He cut the sinful flesh from you.
He gave you life and fullness too.

Mere human ways that may sound smart
Are empty and don't change the heart.

You died, and then with Christ were raised.
So think of things that will be praised.

Not earthly things that you don't need
Like evil passions, lust, and greed.

Don't be these idols' devotees.
For God's wrath comes because of these.

Your life, these ways, once did include.
The old is gone. You've been renewed.

Once anger - show compassion now.
Quit rage for kindness - Christ is how.

No malice, but humility.
No slander; gentleness from thee.

No shameful speaking. No deceit.
But at forgiveness, be elite.

And walk in love, which binds it all,
With hearts of peace as you were called.

So teach and share with Christ imbued.
And sing to God with gratitude.

Support your husbands. Love your wives.
Obey your parents. Help kids' lives.

Heed those for whom you have to work.
If you're in charge, don't be a jerk.

Let all your work be for the Lord.
Inheritance is your reward.

In prayer, be watchful. Pray for us.
That I preach clearly, as I must.

Reach unbelievers, don't delay.
Speak grace, so you know what to say.

Paul said, then, as he bid adieu,
Complete the work God gave to you.

Hey friends, wrote Silas, Tim, and Paul,
We miss you, thank God for you all.

In prayer we all speak fondly of
your hard work from faith, hope and love.

We know our God has chosen you
For with your faith came power too.

We follow God, you model us,
Now everywhere your faith's discussed.

You turned so God your life extols
And wait for Christ who saves our souls.

We preached not to earn praise from men,
But to please God, for love, children.

For love, with you we shared our lives.
From love encouragement derives.

You gained the true and living Word.
By hostile men you're undeterred.

For why should Christ give us renown?
For you. You are our joy and crown.

We can feel joy enduring wrong
Because we hear your faith is strong.

Live all your life for God to please,
Not physical impurities.

By love and hard work win respect
As outsiders your life inspect.

Don't grieve like those who have no hope.
For death is not beyond God's scope.

Into the sky the saved ascend
To be with God, time without end.

That day will come as a surprise,
But not to those alert and wise.

Redeemed, we belong to the day.
Be self-controlled, don't go astray.

Put on the armor from above.
Prepare to live with faith, hope, love.

God chose you not to suffer wrath
But for salvation on your path.

He died for us, that we may live.
Encouragement each other give.

Respect church leaders, live in peace,
And warn the idle, help the weak.

Encourage people overrun.
Be patient now with everyone.

Don't let revenge creep in your mind.
To all God's children, you be kind.

Live every moment joyfully,
In talks with God continually.

Give thanks in every circumstance.
God's will for you is to advance.

Stand tall for all the Spirit would.
Test everything and hold the good.

God sanctify you through and through.
He's faithful, he will do it too.

When writing to the church again
Which Paul did with his hand and pen

He said "We ought thank God for you.
Your faith has grown, your love has too.

We brag of your tenacity,
A model for the church to see.

You suffer now, but God is just.
Reprisals all to him entrust.

Those who don't know him, then destroyed.
Cast from his presence to the void.

With this same pow'r He can fulfill
All good you wish to do until

When he comes back in fire such that
His glory shall be marveled at.

Before that time Christ comes again
And gathers us all up with him,

Don't be deceived, though fate is sealed,
The man of sin will be revealed.

He will gain power, raised up high,
And then he'll claim he's El Shaddai.

With miracles he will deceive
The wicked who just won't believe.

But you, oh Thessalonian
Believe in truth aeonian.

God chose you, loved you, saved you too.
May he encourage all you do.

Now pray for us, God's message grow,
That we'll be safe from evil foe.

Avoid the brothers who won't work,
Who will not toil but want the perks.

Keep doing actions right and pure.
Like God, show love. Like Christ, endure.

Paul wrote to Timothy, "My son,
Stick to the work you have begun.

To silence senseless teachers who
Do not build faith but misconstrue

The law, not for the righteous, but
The wayward who don't know what's what.

I once did evil, awful things,
But given grace by King of Kings.

You can accept this word is true:
If he took me, then he'll take you.

So fight the good fight. Pray for all.
To teach the full truth is my call.

Lift up not anger, men, but prayer.
And women, prize good deeds, not hair.

It's great if someone wants to lead.
Make sure they have the traits they need.

They must be gentle, self-controlled,
Not drunkards or in love with gold.

Hospitable, not prone to strife.
A husband faithful to his wife.

A reputation unbesmirched.
One must lead well to lead the church.

But don't add rules to be obeyed.
For all is good that God has made.

To teach this way you will be wise.
Make godliness an exercise.

With God as your security,
A pattern be, of purity,

Of how to love and how to talk,
Believing true and how to walk.

So read aloud and persevere.
You'll save yourself and those who hear.

All Christians, treat as relatives.
To those in need, then, freely give.

But those who are by pleasure fed,
While living they're already dead.

Those closest to you, give relief.
To fail that's worse than unbelief.

Help widows to whom you are close
So church can help who needs it most.

Those who the work of church direct
Deserve the utmost of respect.

Give honor, servants, all the same,
That none would slander God's good name.

Those who teach wrong are clueless, vain,
Cause conflicts and seek worldly gain.

Those wanting riches fall in traps
That lead to ruinous collapse.

The love of money is a root
That grows to evil as its fruit.

We came with nothing, thus depart.
Chase godliness, now that's what's smart.

The rich should do good deeds and share.
Trust God in heav'n, build treasure there.

Avoid the profane that is rife.
Take hold of your eternal life."

Paul wrote to Timothy, "My boy,
To see you would fill me with joy.

It isn't fear that fills your soul,
But power, love, and self-control.

Though you might suffer, preach away.
He called us, guards us, for that day.

You're in Christ's army now for good,
So suffer evil as he would.

With Christ we died, with him we live.
Endure and us a crown he'll give.

Deny him, he'll deny us back.
But faithfulness he'll never lack.

Don't argue over minor things.
Confusing harm is all that brings.

Shun godless talk or you will find
That godlessness infects your mind.

So cleanse yourself in order to
Be ready when God calls on you.

When opposition is expressed
You must respond with gentleness.

Know peril comes in final days
With proud and unforgiving ways.

When men will hate and lie and boast
And people love themselves the most.

No self-control and won't give thanks.
They won't trust God, but trust in banks.

Abusive, brutal, loveless frauds.
These men choose pleasure over God.

False piety denies God's sway,
So from such people, get away.

The truly pious Christ embrace
And persecutions we will face.

All Scripture can prepare us for
The work God has for us in store.

So preach the Word, or they will steer
Themselves to what they want to hear.

My time in this world winding down,
The Lord reward me with a Crown."

With faith in God, whose word does light us,
Paul sent a message off to Titus.

Peace be upon you as you search
For blameless men to lead the church.

Men patient, friendly, self-controlled.
Steadfastly to the Word they hold.

For they must teach and clarify,
Rebuking those espousing lies.

Teach temperance, a creed correct,
Be sober, worthy of respect.

Be sound in faith, in love, endure,
Don't slander but be kind and pure.

Teach reverence and to take good care.
That what they learn they then should share.

In everything do what is good.
Speak soundly so you're understood.

Don't steal from those you're subject to,
But please them to show what is true.

Important that you live this way.
Give others nothing bad to say.

To all of us God gives the grace
To be controlled in all we face.

He purified us, grace not earned,
And now we wait for his return.

Remind the people: heed the law.
Don't focus on another's flaw.

Do good and show humility.
Be gentle with tranquility.

Once we were disobedient,
Were worldly and expedient,

Took crooked paths instead of straight,
We lived in malice, envy, hate.

But when by love our Savior came
He gave us a new life to claim.

Avoid divisiveness, wrote Paul.
May God's good grace be with you all.

With grace and peace may Jesus douse
Those gathered in Philemon's house.

Your love, praise God, what joy it brings.
Through faith may you know all good things.

Take in your brother, sent your way,
And if he owes you, I will pay.

In trust of your response, I bask.
That you will do more than I ask.

God spoke through prophets, now the Son,
Through whom the whole world was begun.

He is the radiance of God.
The divine substance in a pod.

The cleansing of our sins is He.
Enthroned beside the Majesty.

"Let all the angels worship Him."
"Your throne," says God, "shall never end."

"The earth and sky in place you've lain,
And when they perish, you remain."

His message we cannot ignore -
Salvation, which God underscores.

Now everything beneath him placed.
For everything, death he did taste.

He calls us brothers, Jesus does.
As we are tempted, so he was.

So dwell on Jesus, he's the best.
Superior to all the rest.

For Moses, honor is in store.
The builder of the house gets more.

Don't let sin's lies draw you away.
Exhort each other every day.

For faith in God is great relief.
Accept his rest through true belief.

The Word of God, a flaming sword.
Not one thought can escape the Lord.

We must give an account to Him.
He knew temptation, but not sin.

As priest, atonement he does bring.
And like Melchizedek, a king.

You must move past the basics still.
And God permitting, soon you will.

But those who turn and fall away
Will in the end have hell to pay.

To taste the gift, then leave the Name,
Subjects the Son of God to shame.

But you have better things to come.
God made a promise, count it done.

About Melchizedek the priest -
Was king of righteousness and peace.

A priest not by the law ordained.
Perfection not by law obtained.

So of this order, Christ's priesthood.
It meets our needs, for he is good.

By oath, his priesthood does not end.
Forever on Him we depend.

The better covenant is new.
He serves the tabernacle true.

No longer shadows shown in parts.
He'll write his laws upon our hearts.

The earthly place a symbol for
When God would open up the door.

Draw near to God with hearts sincere,
With faith assured and conscience clear.

Together and with hope proceed,
Provoking love and loving deeds.

If, knowing truth, you still choose sin,
What dreadful trouble you are in.

Instead stand strong with confidence.
Enduring treasures you have hence.

Do not shrink back and be destroyed.
Have faith, then life ahead enjoyed.

Now faith is hope with certainty,
It's proof of what we cannot see.

By faith we know that God declared
And all existence was prepared.

By faith a better sacrifice
Did Abel give, got paradise.

By faith did Enoch please the Lord.
You must believe to get reward.

By faith did Noah build an ark.
And onto righteousness embark.

By faith Abraham up and went.
He knew not where, just he was sent.

By faith did Sarah life receive.
Though past the age, she did conceive.

By faith these lived and then they died.
Believed what God said, he'd provide.

They felt as strangers on this earth.
God's built a home, much more it's worth.

By faith Abraham passed a test.
High stakes - to God he acquiesed.

By faith did Issac bless his kids.
By faith then Jacob, Joseph's did.

By faith then Joseph did discuss
What would become the exodus.

By faith a Levite man and wife
Defied the king, saved Moses's life.

By faith then Moses chose God's path.
Chose Christ and feared not pharoah's wrath.

By faith they walked by water wall.
By faith they watched Jericho fall.

By faith then Rahab helped the spies
And thus did not meet her demise.

By faith some went on great campaigns.
By faith some, too, endured great pains.

With such examples, cast off sin.
And run your race as if to win.

Your eyes on Christ who makes you whole
You won't grow weary in your soul.

When hardship comes, then think within,
"This is God's love and discipline."

He teaches those He counts as sons,
Though in the moment it's not fun.

We're stronger once drills we've withstood.
He disciplines us for our good.

Now live in peace not bitterness.
Don't live for sex or godlessness.

You've not come to a mountain dying,
With fire and brimstone, terrifying.

You're at the city heavenly
That's filled with joy and men made free.

Be locked into God's firm domain
So when he shakes, you will remain.

Be glad you're in the kingdom higher.
Our God is a consuming fire.

Keep showing hospitality.
Avoid all immorality.

God won't forsake or disappear.
He helps you so you've none to fear.

Be mindful of the ones who lead.
As they behave, so you proceed.

To teachings false, though, do not stray.
Christ is the same on every day.

He bore disgrace and so can we.
Our future home we can foresee.

So praise the Lord, do good, and share.
Heed those who lead your souls with care.

The God of peace make you complete
To do His will, fragrant and sweet.

With God your troubles can be joy.
Endurance, wisdom he’ll deploy.

To give you life, to keep out sin,
For every good gift comes from Him.

Open your ears and shut your mouth.
Let God inside you help you out.

And when you hear, then follow through.
Let God bless all the things you do.

The pure must always watch their tongue.
Help widows and the orphaned young.

Impartially love the rich and poor.
Give mercy and get grace galore.

What good is faith tacked on the wall?
Inactive faith ain’t faith at all.

Your tongue is smaller than your arm,
But tell me which can do more harm?

You tame a tiger - Tame your speech.
Don’t set on fire those you reach.

Don’t bless God then curse those he made.
Don’t use your words like a grenade.

To be wise you must be humble.
Selfishness would make you stumble.

Pursue the wisdom from above,
Of peaceful actions filled with love.

For war is born of selfish greed,
from wanting things we do not need.

The devil flees when you resist.
Draw near to God, he will assist.

And do not boast of what you’ll do,
You’ll go wherever God wants you to.

Beware a life of ease and rest,
You’d rather be etern’lly blessed.

Be patient and in all things pray.
Endure till his returning day.

To those on whom the Spirit’s poured,
Wrote Peter, servant of the Lord:

Praise God who granted us new life,
Far greater than our present strife.

Your faith leads to elation pure,
Delivering salvation sure.

So don’t return to sinful ways,
But dwell on grace throughout your days.

Be holy, following God’s lead.
From emptiness you have been freed.

May purity set you apart.
Now love, and love with all your heart.

Reborn we now are God’s own spore,
Whose word endures forevermore.

Therefore you must eliminate
All lies and slander, envy, hate.

Be nourished by the word of God,
And join the royal, priestly squad,

Who shine the light, who make it known:
God laid a precious cornerstone.

Exemplifying how to live:
When you are wronged, like him, forgive.

As strangers in this world we’re in,
Be known for good deeds, not for sin.

In all positions heed God's call.
Respect the Lord and honor all.

Defend the faith by saying why
You serve the Christ the Lord on high.

To chase the flesh is to be dead.
Pursue the godly life instead.

The end is near. Be ready, pray.
Love everyone who comes your way.

Whatever gift you have received,
Through you, may God’s will be achieved.

Remember now, hard times will come.
Much glory, though, to suffer some.

God gives you strength, supplies thereof:
Humility, steadfastness, love.

He wrote again, more peace and grace
To those who make the Lord their base.

God’s pow’r can give you piety
Despite corrupt society.

To faith add goodness, knowledge too.
Control yourself and see things through.

Devote yourself to God above.
Take care of others. Always love.

You are redeemed, serve God with zeal.
His kingdom is so very real.

Avoid the folks who falsely claim
To prophesy in Jesus’ name,

But love the flesh. Well, God has shown:
Bad people reap what they have sown.

They pounce the weak, they are depraved.
By their corruption they’re enslaved.

For blasphemy they’ll be destroyed,
And cast into the deepest void.

Dear friends, keep Scripture on your mind.
The mockers will be left behind.

For on that day when He returns:
New earth revealed while this world burns.

From sin, keep your behavior free.
All glory to our Savior be.

We’ve seen it, touched it, know it’s true:
This life we have and preach to you.

This is the message - God is light,
The only path out of our plight.

We all have sin, we must confess.
Denial won’t improve our mess.

We sin, that’s why we need the Christ
To be atoning sacrifice.

Then strive to follow his command:
As Jesus stood, so we must stand.

Think you know God? Well here’s a test:
How patient are you with a pest?

For love and light are intertwined.
But if you hate, you have gone blind.

Both God and Son have always been.
Christ took God’s wrath to pay our sin.

He lives in us and makes us strong,
To help us overcome what’s wrong.

What’s wrong is loving things of earth
Instead of God whose will is worth

Far more than flesh or pride or lust,
Which soon will disappear like dust.

There are two sides, and you’re on one:
You either trust or spurn the Son.

We’re only righteous under grace,
But sin is spitting in His face.

We’re Satan’s spawn if sin runs wild,
But righteous if you are God’s child.

To hate is murder in your heart.
For love we have been set apart.

Love not with words, but with our deeds,
By helping others with their needs.

His order’s easy to perceive:
Love others and in Christ believe.

To Truth good spirits testify.
But evil spirits, Christ deny.

He loved us though we chose to sin.
He gave us Christ and lives within

So we can love in the same way,
Love others though they live astray.

For faith is love is purity,
Is life communing with the Three,

Is birth of God, hope in his name,
Avoiding sin - they’re all the same.

We’re guarded by God on the throne,
So trust and worship him alone.

The elder wrote to the elect
In love and joy and to direct

Them toward the light, away from lies,
For none has God who Christ denies.

What joy your children Christ should know.
What joy to see the family grow.

Now love each other - His command.
For love and God go hand in hand.

He prays all would go well with you,
Your life be filled with what is true,

To keep supporting those who preach,
Those sent by God, the lost to reach.

Don’t seek prestige as some men would,
But imitate that which is good.

To all those called and sanctified:
Have peace and mercy multiplied.

Together we shall be replete,
And in His presence be complete.

Be warned though, till that trumpet’s heard,
Of those who come to twist God’s word.

For grace is not a pass to sin.
Joy comes from God, not from your skin.

Don’t crave the glory God won’t yield,
Nor lust for pow’r you could not wield.

No food or gold stored on the shelves
Will help those who love just themselves.

The arrogant may rule the day,
Till God makes this world pass away.

Beloved build each other up.
Let love and mercy fill your cup.

For God who cleaned and set you free,
Rules everywhere eternally.

Enjoy this message God gave through
His son, an angel, John, to you.

All praise and power and glory be
To Christ who paid our penalty.

Now clean we serve our God because
He always is and always was.

John, exiled 'cause he preached the Word,
Was in the Spirit when he heard

A voice that said, like trumpet sound,
"The things you see, go write them down".

By golden lampstands, Son of Man
With golden sash and stars in hand,

His hair like snow, his eyes ablaze,
His face like sunshine's brilliant rays,

His voice like rushing waters roared,
And from his mouth, a two-edged sword.

John fell and at his feet he laid.
But then God said, "Don't be afraid."

"I am the First, the Last, the One.
Death and the cross, I've overcome."

"Now write this down, it's meant to guide
The seven aspects of my bride.

I know you, Prophet, have endured.
By none who lie have you been lured.

But where's the love you had at first?
Now change your heart, I'll quench your thirst.

Dear Servant: I know times are hard.
Still more the devil will bombard.

Be faithful when the pain is rife
And I will give the crown of life.

Then Teacher: I know Satan's there,
That you hold fast and don't despair,

Though, even when a brother dies.
But why do you put up with lies?

Reform the teachings I've deplored
Or I'll correct them with my sword.

The victors will then, I proclaim,
Get hidden bread and a new name.

Encourager, I know your works.
In victory I'll give you perks.

Authority from near to far.
I'll also give the morning star.

But you put up with Jezebel,
Whose so-called secrets come from hell.

I'm sending hardships to her kind,
Then you'll know I search heart and mind.

Now Giver church, I have bad news:
I see through your religious ruse.

Repent and ever-watchful be,
Like those who get to walk with me.

And Leaders: See the open door
That, through your weakness, strength I pour

To keep my word and to endure,
To keep your heav'nly crown secure.

To those who have the Mercy gift:
Don't think you're rich when you're adrift.

The lukewarm make me want to puke.
Because I love you, I rebuke.

Be earnest, turn away from sin.
I'm at the door, just let me in.

And if you trust in me alone,
I'll let you join me on my throne."

Then after this, an open door
Led John to heaven to see more.

The Lord was seated on a throne.
He shined like brilliant precious stone.

And men with crowns of gold surround,
While voices, flames, and thunder sound.

Four creatures that each have six wings,
They never rest but always sing,

"Almighty God, past, future, now."
The men throw down their crowns and bow.

"You're worthy God, none higher rated.
For by your will all was created."

Now in his hand God held a scroll
That none could open, not a soul.

Until a Lamb with seven eyes
He took it, for he qualifies

Because he purchased with his blood
A people once just filled with crud.

Now clean and serving God as priests,
Sing praise that never shall be ceased.

The scroll Christ held had seven seals.
Each one a plan of God reveals.

He opened one, a horse all white
Was sent with crown to win each fight.

The next, a horse all fiery red,
Took peace from earth - men killed men dead.

The third seal, a black horse unveils,
Its rider with a pair of scales.

The fourth seal brought the Grave and Death,
A pale horse who, with every breath,

Where God allowed them, killed with ease,
By sword, by famine, by disease.

Then when the fifth seal was unsealed
Beneath the altar was revealed

Those who for preaching met their fate.
They asked for justice, told to wait.

The sixth seal changed the universe.
The unredeemed saw things get worse.

An angel sealed the heads of some
So they avoid the wrath to come.

All praising God, a countless swarm.
Then there was silence 'fore the storm.

Our prayers as incense to God rose.
Then fire came from trumpet blows.

The first burned earth and grass and trees.
The second turned to blood the seas.

The third brought down the Wormwood star,
Which ruined waters near and far.

The fourth took out one-third of light.
"But oh", cried one, "the coming blight".

A trumpet blew, the fifth one this,
And locusts came from the abyss.

They didn't kill, they just brought pain
That those without the seal sustain.

Then trumpet six sent those assigned
To kill a third of humankind.

Yet people, still, they chose to steal.
To manmade idols still they kneel.

Then said an angel down from heaven.
"God's purpose comes with trumpet seven."

John walked up to the angel great.
He took the scroll, which then he ate.

He learned that two would prophesy
Till more than three years had gone by.

An evil beast will come and kill.
They'll lay unburied, dead and still.

The lost will laugh and celebrate
Till God makes them both stand up straight.

When God says to the two "Come here",
The people learn that God's to fear.

And then the seventh trumpet blew.
What was proclaimed was coming true.

The whole world now is his domain,
And always God and Christ will reign.

Then those in heaven fell face down
To praise the God of great renown.

Two signs: A woman great with child
Next to a dragon huge and riled.

The baby would be dragon's prey,
But God stepped in to save the day.

Swept up the child, saved the mom.
The dragon blew up like a bomb.

Then there in heaven was a war.
It's Michael's versus Satan's corps.

The outcome never was in doubt.
The devil's side was all thrown out.

Now stuck on earth and furious,
He aimed to be injurious

To those who would not bow or cow'r
So to a beast he gave his pow'r.

And all the people worshipped it
Whose names weren't in the holy writ.

It slaughtered saints and beat the pure.
If you're there then, one word: endure.

A second beast, skilled at deception,
Forbid all trade, with one exception:

Those on whose hand he does affix
His number, which is six six six.

The pure were singing on Mount Zion
Before the Lamb who is a Lion.

Three angels made the truth well-known,
"Fear God and worship him alone".

An angel then was told to reap.
The harvest came in one big sweep.

Then those whose souls were grabbed like grapes,
Not one who's due God's wrath escapes.

Meanwhile the faithful stood to sing,
"Great are you God, and just, our King".

Then angels stepped out on the path
To get the bowls filled with God's wrath,

And these were poured out one by one
Till from the throne God said "It's done".

Then John was shown, from new location,
Mother of Abomination.

The city who loves earthly things,
And rules the ways of worldly kings.

In drunken luxury does thrive,
But at God's Word, will not survive.

And at that Babylon the great,
Who boasted and loved goods ornate,

Devoured souls and fanned desire,
Was suddenly consumed by fire.

Then "Hallelujah, Praise the Lord",
A multitude in heaven roared.

Salvation from God glorified,
Now marriage for Christ and his bride.

So blessed are those at wedding feast,
Who join the Lamb and catch the beast

And catch deceitful prophet too,
Their armies killed, Faithful and True.

With victory over insurrection,
The martyrs rose, first resurrection.

They rule with Christ a thousand years
Till Satan, unbound, reappears.

Fights to prevent what must transpire.
He's thrown into the lake of fire.

Before the throne, truth can't be fudged.
By King of Kings, each will be judged.

"Behold", said God, "I make things new.
I am the first, the last, the true.

The spring of life will thirst relieve,
But not for those who don't believe."

The Holy City then came down,
A cube five thousand miles around.

With walls of jasper, streets of gold,
A brilliant glory to behold.

There is no sun and yet no night,
For God himself is city's light.

Right in the city sits his throne.
He'll live with us and call his own.

His face we'll see and love we'll feel.
His crops will quench and sate and heal.

Be blessed and keep his words till then.
"I'm coming soon", says Christ. Amen.

© 2024 Jotham McCauley         TheBibleRhymes.com