2Chr.16.1

But in the thirty-sixth year of Asa's reign, Baasha king of Israel attacked. He started it by building a fort at Ramah and closing the border between Israel and Judah to keep Asa king of Judah from leaving or entering.

2Chr.16.1

In the thirty-sixth year of Asa's reign Baasha king of Israel went up against Judah and fortified Ramah to prevent anyone from leaving or entering the territory of Asa king of Judah.

2Chr.16.1

In the thirty-sixth year of the reign of Asa, Baasha king of Israel came up against Judah and built Ramah, that he might let none go out or come in to Asa king of Judah.

2Chr.16.1

In the thirty-sixth year of Asa's reign, King Baasha of Israel invaded Judah and fortified Ramah in order to prevent anyone from entering or leaving King Asa's territory in Judah.

2Chr.16.2

Asa took silver and gold from the treasuries of The Temple of GOD and the royal palace and sent it to Ben-Hadad, king of Aram who lived in Damascus, with this message:

2Chr.16.2

Asa then took the silver and gold out of the treasuries of the LORD's temple and of his own palace and sent it to Ben-Hadad king of Aram, who was ruling in Damascus.

2Chr.16.2

Then Asa brought silver and gold from the treasuries of the house of the LORD and of the king's house, and sent to Ben-Hadad king of Syria, who dwelt in Damascus, saying,

2Chr.16.2

Asa responded by taking the silver and gold from the treasuries of the LORD's Temple and from the royal palace. He sent it to King Ben-hadad of Aram, who was ruling in Damascus, along with this message:

2Chr.16.3

"Let's make a treaty like the one between our fathers. I'm showing my good faith with this gift of silver and gold. Break your deal with Baasha king of Israel so he'll quit fighting against me."

2Chr.16.3

"Let there be a treaty between me and you," he said, "as there was between my father and your father. See, I am sending you silver and gold. Now break your treaty with Baasha king of Israel so he will withdraw from me."

2Chr.16.3

"Let there be a treaty between you and me, as there was between my father and your father. See, I have sent you silver and gold; come, break your treaty with Baasha king of Israel, so that he will withdraw from me."

2Chr.16.3

"Let us renew the treaty that existed between your father and my father. See, I am sending you a gift of silver and gold. Break your treaty with King Baasha of Israel so that he will leave me alone."

2Chr.16.4

Ben-Hadad went along with King Asa and sent his troops against the towns of Israel. They sacked Ijon, Dan, Abel Maim, and all the store-cities of Naphtali.

2Chr.16.4

Ben-Hadad agreed with King Asa and sent the commanders of his forces against the towns of Israel. They conquered Ijon, Dan, Abel Maim and all the store cities of Naphtali.

2Chr.16.4

So Ben-Hadad heeded King Asa, and sent the captains of his armies against the cities of Israel. They attacked Ijon, Dan, Abel Maim, and all the storage cities of Naphtali.

2Chr.16.4

Ben-hadad agreed to King Asa's request and sent his armies to attack Israel. They conquered the towns of Ijon, Dan, Abel-beth-maacah, and all the store cities in Naphtali.

2Chr.16.5

When Baasha got the report, he quit fortifying Ramah.

2Chr.16.5

When Baasha heard this, he stopped building Ramah and abandoned his work.

2Chr.16.5

Now it happened, when Baasha heard it, that he stopped building Ramah and ceased his work.

2Chr.16.5

As soon as Baasha of Israel heard what was happening, he abandoned his project of fortifying Ramah.

2Chr.16.6

Then King Asa issued orders to his people in Judah to haul away the logs and stones Baasha had used in the fortification of Ramah and used them himself to fortify Geba and Mizpah.

2Chr.16.6

Then King Asa brought all the men of Judah, and they carried away from Ramah the stones and timber Baasha had been using. With them he built up Geba and Mizpah.

2Chr.16.6

Then King Asa took all Judah, and they carried away the stones and timber of Ramah, which Baasha had used for building; and with them he built Geba and Mizpah.

2Chr.16.6

Then King Asa called out all the men of Judah to carry away the building stones and timbers that Baasha had been using to fortify Ramah. Asa used these materials to fortify the towns of Geba and Mizpah.

2Chr.16.7

Just after that, Hanani the seer came to Asa king of Judah and said, "Because you went for help to the king of Aram and didn't ask GOD for help, you've lost a victory over the army of the king of Aram.

2Chr.16.7

At that time Hanani the seer came to Asa king of Judah and said to him: "Because you relied on the king of Aram and not on the LORD your God, the army of the king of Aram has escaped from your hand.

2Chr.16.7

And at that time Hanani the seer came to Asa king of Judah, and said to him: "Because you have relied on the king of Syria, and have not relied on the LORD your God, therefore the army of the king of Syria has escaped from your hand.

2Chr.16.7

At that time Hanani the seer came to King Asa and told him, "Because you have put your trust in the king of Aram instead of in the LORD your God, you missed your chance to destroy the army of the king of Aram.

2Chr.16.8

Didn't the Ethiopians and Libyans come against you with superior forces, completely outclassing you with their chariots and cavalry? But you asked GOD for help and he gave you the victory.

2Chr.16.8

Were not the Cushites and Libyans a mighty army with great numbers of chariots and horsemen? Yet when you relied on the LORD, he delivered them into your hand.

2Chr.16.8

Were the Ethiopians and the Lubim not a huge army with very many chariots and horsemen? Yet, because you relied on the LORD, He delivered them into your hand.

2Chr.16.8

Don't you remember what happened to the Ethiopians and Libyans and their vast army, with all of their chariots and horsemen? At that time you relied on the LORD, and he handed them all over to you.

2Chr.16.9

GOD is always on the alert, constantly on the lookout for people who are totally committed to him. You were foolish to go for human help when you could have had God's help. Now you're in trouble--one round of war after another."

2Chr.16.9

For the eyes of the LORD range throughout the earth to strengthen those whose hearts are fully committed to him. You have done a foolish thing, and from now on you will be at war."

2Chr.16.9

For the eyes of the LORD run to and fro throughout the whole earth, to show Himself strong on behalf of those whose heart is loyal to Him. In this you have done foolishly; therefore from now on you shall have wars."

2Chr.16.9

The eyes of the LORD search the whole earth in order to strengthen those whose hearts are fully committed to him. What a fool you have been! From now on, you will be at war."

2Chr.16.10

At that, Asa lost his temper. Angry, he put Hanani in the stocks. At the same time Asa started abusing some of the people.

2Chr.16.10

Asa was angry with the seer because of this; he was so enraged that he put him in prison. At the same time Asa brutally oppressed some of the people.

2Chr.16.10

Then Asa was angry with the seer, and put him in prison, for he was enraged at him because of this. And Asa oppressed some of the people at that time.

2Chr.16.10

Asa became so angry with Hanani for saying this that he threw him into prison. At that time, Asa also began to oppress some of his people.

2Chr.16.11

A full account of Asa is written in The Chronicles of the Kings of Judah.

2Chr.16.11

The events of Asa's reign, from beginning to end, are written in the book of the kings of Judah and Israel.

2Chr.16.11

Note that the acts of Asa, first and last, are indeed written in the book of the kings of Judah and Israel.

2Chr.16.11

The rest of the events of Asa's reign, from beginning to end, are recorded in The Book of the Kings of Judah and Israel.

2Chr.16.12

In the thirty-ninth year of his reign Asa came down with a severe case of foot infection. He didn't ask GOD for help, but went instead to the doctors.

2Chr.16.12

In the thirty-ninth year of his reign Asa was afflicted with a disease in his feet. Though his disease was severe, even in his illness he did not seek help from the LORD, but only from the physicians.

2Chr.16.12

And in the thirty-ninth year of his reign, Asa became diseased in his feet, and his malady was severe; yet in his disease he did not seek the LORD, but the physicians.

2Chr.16.12

In the thirty-ninth year of his reign, Asa developed a serious foot disease. Even when the disease became life threatening, he did not seek the LORD's help but sought help only from his physicians.

2Chr.16.13

Then Asa died; he died in the forty-first year of his reign.

2Chr.16.13

Then in the forty-first year of his reign Asa died and rested with his fathers.

2Chr.16.13

So Asa rested with his fathers; he died in the forty-first year of his reign.

2Chr.16.13

So he died in the forty-first year of his reign.

2Chr.16.14

They buried him in a mausoleum that he had built for himself in the City of David. They laid him in a crypt full of aromatic oils and spices. Then they had a huge bonfire in his memory.

2Chr.16.14

They buried him in the tomb that he had cut out for himself in the City of David. They laid him on a bier covered with spices and various blended perfumes, and they made a huge fire in his honor.

2Chr.16.14

They buried him in his own tomb, which he had made for himself in the City of David; and they laid him in the bed which was filled with spices and various ingredients prepared in a mixture of ointments. They made a very great burning for him.

2Chr.16.14

He was buried in the tomb he had carved out for himself in the City of David. He was laid on a bed perfumed with sweet spices and ointments, and at his funeral the people built a huge fire in his honor.

2Chr.17.1

Asa's son Jehoshaphat was the next king; he started out by working on his defense system against Israel.

2Chr.17.1

Jehoshaphat his son succeeded him as king and strengthened himself against Israel.

2Chr.17.1

Then Jehoshaphat his son reigned in his place, and strengthened himself against Israel.

2Chr.17.1

Then Jehoshaphat, Asa's son, became the next king. He strengthened Judah to stand against any attack from Israel.

2Chr.17.2

He put troops in all the fortress cities of Judah and deployed garrisons throughout Judah and in the towns of Ephraim that his father Asa had captured.

2Chr.17.2

He stationed troops in all the fortified cities of Judah and put garrisons in Judah and in the towns of Ephraim that his father Asa had captured.

2Chr.17.2

And he placed troops in all the fortified cities of Judah, and set garrisons in the land of Judah and in the cities of Ephraim which Asa his father had taken.

2Chr.17.2

He stationed troops in all the fortified cities of Judah, and he assigned additional garrisons to the land of Judah and to the towns of Ephraim that his father, Asa, had conquered.

2Chr.17.3

GOD was on Jehoshaphat's side because he stuck to the ways of his father Asa's early years. He didn't fool around with the popular Baal religion--

2Chr.17.3

The LORD was with Jehoshaphat because in his early years he walked in the ways his father David had followed. He did not consult the Baals

2Chr.17.3

Now the LORD was with Jehoshaphat, because he walked in the former ways of his father David; he did not seek the Baals,

2Chr.17.3

The LORD was with Jehoshaphat because he followed the example of his father's early years and did not worship the images of Baal.

2Chr.17.4

he was a seeker and follower of the God of his father and was obedient to him; he wasn't like Israel.

2Chr.17.4

but sought the God of his father and followed his commands rather than the practices of Israel.

2Chr.17.4

but sought the God of his father, and walked in His commandments and not according to the acts of Israel.

2Chr.17.4

He sought his father's God and obeyed his commands instead of following the practices of the kingdom of Israel.

2Chr.17.5

And GOD secured the kingdom under his rule, gave him a firm grip on it. And everyone in Judah showed their appreciation by bringing gifts. Jehoshaphat ended up very rich and much honored.

2Chr.17.5

The LORD established the kingdom under his control; and all Judah brought gifts to Jehoshaphat, so that he had great wealth and honor.

2Chr.17.5

Therefore the LORD established the kingdom in his hand; and all Judah gave presents to Jehoshaphat, and he had riches and honor in abundance.

2Chr.17.5

So the LORD established Jehoshaphat's control over the kingdom of Judah. All the people of Judah brought gifts to Jehoshaphat, so he became very wealthy and highly esteemed.

2Chr.17.6

He was single-minded in following GOD; and he got rid of the local sex-and-religion shrines.

2Chr.17.6

His heart was devoted to the ways of the LORD; furthermore, he removed the high places and the Asherah poles from Judah.

2Chr.17.6

And his heart took delight in the ways of the LORD; moreover he removed the high places and wooden images from Judah.

2Chr.17.6

He was committed to the ways of the LORD. He knocked down the pagan shrines and destroyed the Asherah poles.

2Chr.17.7

In the third year of his reign he sent his officials--excellent men, every one of them--Ben-Hail, Obadiah, Zechariah, Nethanel, and Micaiah on a teaching mission to the cities of Judah.

2Chr.17.7

In the third year of his reign he sent his officials Ben-Hail, Obadiah, Zechariah, Nethanel and Micaiah to teach in the towns of Judah.

2Chr.17.7

Also in the third year of his reign he sent his leaders, Ben-Hail, Obadiah, Zechariah, Nethanel, and Michaiah, to teach in the cities of Judah.

2Chr.17.7

In the third year of his reign, Jehoshaphat sent out his officials to teach in all the towns of Judah. These officials included Ben-hail, Obadiah, Zechariah, Nethanel, and Micaiah.

2Chr.17.8

They were accompanied by Levites--Shemaiah, Nethaniah, Zebadiah, Asahel, Shemiramoth, Jehonathan, Adonijah, Tobijah, and Tob-Adonijah; the priests Elishama and Jehoram were also in the company.

2Chr.17.8

With them were certain Levites-Shemaiah, Nethaniah, Zebadiah, Asahel, Shemiramoth, Jehonathan, Adonijah, Tobijah and Tob-Adonijah-and the priests Elishama and Jehoram.

2Chr.17.8

And with them he sent Levites: Shemaiah, Nethaniah, Zebadiah, Asahel, Shemiramoth, Jehonathan, Adonijah, Tobijah, and Tobadonijah--the Levites; and with them Elishama and Jehoram, the priests.

2Chr.17.8

He sent Levites along with them, including Shemaiah, Nethaniah, Zebadiah, Asahel, Shemiramoth, Jehonathan, Adonijah, Tobijah, and Tob-adonijah. He also sent out the priests, Elishama and Jehoram.

2Chr.17.9

They made a circuit of the towns of Judah, teaching the people and using the Book of The Revelation of GOD as their text.

2Chr.17.9

They taught throughout Judah, taking with them the Book of the Law of the LORD; they went around to all the towns of Judah and taught the people.

2Chr.17.9

So they taught in Judah, and had the Book of the Law of the LORD with them; they went throughout all the cities of Judah and taught the people.

2Chr.17.9

They took copies of the Book of the Law of the LORD and traveled around through all the towns of Judah, teaching the people.

2Chr.17.10

There was a strong sense of the fear of GOD in all the kingdoms around Judah--they didn't dare go to war against Jehoshaphat.

2Chr.17.10

The fear of the LORD fell on all the kingdoms of the lands surrounding Judah, so that they did not make war with Jehoshaphat.

2Chr.17.10

And the fear of the LORD fell on all the kingdoms of the lands that were around Judah, so that they did not make war against Jehoshaphat.

2Chr.17.10

Then the fear of the LORD fell over all the surrounding kingdoms so that none of them declared war on Jehoshaphat.

2Chr.17.11

Some Philistines even brought gifts and a load of silver to Jehoshaphat, and the desert bedouin brought flocks--7,700 rams and 7,700 goats.

2Chr.17.11

Some Philistines brought Jehoshaphat gifts and silver as tribute, and the Arabs brought him flocks: seven thousand seven hundred rams and seven thousand seven hundred goats.

2Chr.17.11

Also some of the Philistines brought Jehoshaphat presents and silver as tribute; and the Arabians brought him flocks, seven thousand seven hundred rams and seven thousand seven hundred male goats.

2Chr.17.11

Some of the Philistines brought him gifts and silver as tribute, and the Arabs brought seventy-seven hundred rams and seventy-seven hundred male goats.

2Chr.17.12

So Jehoshaphat became stronger by the day, and constructed more and more forts and store-cities--an age of prosperity for Judah!

2Chr.17.12

Jehoshaphat became more and more powerful; he built forts and store cities in Judah

2Chr.17.12

So Jehoshaphat became increasingly powerful, and he built fortresses and storage cities in Judah.

2Chr.17.12

So Jehoshaphat became more and more powerful and built fortresses and store cities throughout Judah.

2Chr.17.13

He also had excellent fighting men stationed in Jerusalem.

2Chr.17.13

and had large supplies in the towns of Judah. He also kept experienced fighting men in Jerusalem.

2Chr.17.13

He had much property in the cities of Judah; and the men of war, mighty men of valor, were in Jerusalem.

2Chr.17.13

He stored numerous supplies in Judah's towns and stationed an army of seasoned troops at Jerusalem.

2Chr.17.14

The captains of the military units of Judah, classified according to families, were: Captain Adnah with 300,000 soldiers;

2Chr.17.14

Their enrollment by families was as follows: From Judah, commanders of units of 1,000: Adnah the commander, with 300,000 fighting men;

2Chr.17.14

These are their numbers, according to their fathers' houses. Of Judah, the captains of thousands: Adnah the captain, and with him three hundred thousand mighty men of valor;

2Chr.17.14

His army was enrolled according to ancestral clans. From Judah, there were 300,000 troops organized in units of one thousand, under the command of Adnah.

2Chr.17.15

his associate Captain Jehohanan with 280,000;

2Chr.17.15

next, Jehohanan the commander, with 280,000;

2Chr.17.15

and next to him was Jehohanan the captain, and with him two hundred and eighty thousand;

2Chr.17.15

Next in command was Jehohanan, who commanded 280,000 troops.

2Chr.17.16

his associate Amasiah son of Zicri, a volunteer for GOD, with 200,000.

2Chr.17.16

next, Amasiah son of Zicri, who volunteered himself for the service of the LORD, with 200,000.

2Chr.17.16

and next to him was Amasiah the son of Zichri, who willingly offered himself to the LORD, and with him two hundred thousand mighty men of valor.

2Chr.17.16

Next was Amasiah son of Zicri, who volunteered for the LORD's service, with 200,000 troops under his command.

2Chr.17.17

Officer Eliada represented Benjamin with 200,000 fully equipped with bow and shield;

2Chr.17.17

From Benjamin: Eliada, a valiant soldier, with 200,000 men armed with bows and shields;

2Chr.17.17

Of Benjamin: Eliada a mighty man of valor, and with him two hundred thousand men armed with bow and shield;

2Chr.17.17

From Benjamin, there were 200,000 troops equipped with bows and shields. They were under the command of Eliada, a veteran soldier.

2Chr.17.18

and his associate was Jehozabad with 180,000 armed and ready for battle.

2Chr.17.18

next, Jehozabad, with 180,000 men armed for battle.

2Chr.17.18

and next to him was Jehozabad, and with him one hundred and eighty thousand prepared for war.

2Chr.17.18

Next in command was Jehozabad, who commanded 180,000 armed men.

2Chr.17.19

These were under the direct command of the king; in addition there were the troops assigned to the fortress cities spread all over Judah.

2Chr.17.19

These were the men who served the king, besides those he stationed in the fortified cities throughout Judah.

2Chr.17.19

These served the king, besides those the king put in the fortified cities throughout all Judah.

2Chr.17.19

These were the troops stationed in Jerusalem to serve the king, besides those Jehoshaphat stationed in the fortified cities throughout Judah.

2Chr.18.1

But even though Jehoshaphat was very rich and much honored, he made a marriage alliance with Ahab of Israel.

2Chr.18.1

Now Jehoshaphat had great wealth and honor, and he allied himself with Ahab by marriage.

2Chr.18.1

Jehoshaphat had riches and honor in abundance; and by marriage he allied himself with Ahab.

2Chr.18.1

Now Jehoshaphat enjoyed great riches and high esteem, and he arranged for his son to marry the daughter of King Ahab of Israel.

2Chr.18.2

Some time later he paid a visit to Ahab at Samaria. Ahab celebrated his visit with a feast--a huge barbecue with all the lamb and beef you could eat. But Ahab had a hidden agenda; he wanted Jehoshaphat's support in attacking Ramoth Gilead.

2Chr.18.2

Some years later he went down to visit Ahab in Samaria. Ahab slaughtered many sheep and cattle for him and the people with him and urged him to attack Ramoth Gilead.

2Chr.18.2

After some years he went down to visit Ahab in Samaria; and Ahab killed sheep and oxen in abundance for him and the people who were with him, and persuaded him to go up with him to Ramoth Gilead.

2Chr.18.2

A few years later, he went to Samaria to visit Ahab, who prepared a great banquet for him and his officials. They butchered great numbers of sheep and oxen for the feast. Then Ahab enticed Jehoshaphat to join forces with him to attack Ramoth-gilead.

2Chr.18.3

Then Ahab brought it into the open: "Will you join me in attacking Ramoth Gilead?" Jehoshaphat said, "You bet. I'm with you all the way; you can count on me and my troops."

2Chr.18.3

Ahab king of Israel asked Jehoshaphat king of Judah, "Will you go with me against Ramoth Gilead?" Jehoshaphat replied, "I am as you are, and my people as your people; we will join you in the war."

2Chr.18.3

So Ahab king of Israel said to Jehoshaphat king of Judah, "Will you go with me against Ramoth Gilead?" And he answered him, "I am as you are, and my people as your people; we will be with you in the war."

2Chr.18.3

"Will you join me in fighting against Ramoth-gilead?" Ahab asked. And Jehoshaphat replied, "Why, of course! You and I are brothers, and my troops are yours to command. We will certainly join you in battle."

2Chr.18.4

Then Jehoshaphat said, "But before you do anything, ask GOD for guidance."

2Chr.18.4

But Jehoshaphat also said to the king of Israel, "First seek the counsel of the LORD."

2Chr.18.4

Also Jehoshaphat said to the king of Israel, "Please inquire for the word of the LORD today."

2Chr.18.4

Then Jehoshaphat added, "But first let's find out what the LORD says."

2Chr.18.5

The king of Israel got the prophets together--all 400 of them--and put the question to them: "Should I attack Ramoth Gilead or should I hold back?Go for it," they said. "God will hand it over to the king."

2Chr.18.5

So the king of Israel brought together the prophets-four hundred men-and asked them, "Shall we go to war against Ramoth Gilead, or shall I refrain?Go," they answered, "for God will give it into the king's hand."

2Chr.18.5

Then the king of Israel gathered the prophets together, four hundred men, and said to them, "Shall we go to war against Ramoth Gilead, or shall I refrain?" So they said, "Go up, for God will deliver it into the king's hand."

2Chr.18.5

So King Ahab summoned his prophets, four hundred of them, and asked them, "Should we go to war against Ramoth-gilead or not?" They all replied, "Go ahead, for God will give you a great victory!"

2Chr.18.6

But Jehoshaphat dragged his feet, "Is there another prophet of GOD around here we can consult? Let's get a second opinion."

2Chr.18.6

But Jehoshaphat asked, "Is there not a prophet of the LORD here whom we can inquire of?"

2Chr.18.6

But Jehoshaphat said, "Is there not still a prophet of the LORD here, that we may inquire of Him?"

2Chr.18.6

But Jehoshaphat asked, "Isn't there a prophet of the LORD around, too? I would like to ask him the same question."

2Chr.18.7

The king of Israel told Jehoshaphat, "As a matter of fact, there is another. But I hate him. He never preaches anything good to me, only doom, doom, doom--Micaiah son of Imlah.The king shouldn't talk about a prophet like that!" said Jehoshaphat.

2Chr.18.7

The king of Israel answered Jehoshaphat, "There is still one man through whom we can inquire of the LORD, but I hate him because he never prophesies anything good about me, but always bad. He is Micaiah son of Imlah.The king should not say that," Jehoshaphat replied.

2Chr.18.7

So the king of Israel said to Jehoshaphat, "There is still one man by whom we may inquire of the LORD; but I hate him, because he never prophesies good concerning me, but always evil. He is Micaiah the son of Imla." And Jehoshaphat said, "Let not the king say such things!"

2Chr.18.7

King Ahab replied, "There is still one prophet of the LORD, but I hate him. He never prophesies anything but bad news for me! His name is Micaiah son of Imlah.You shouldn't talk like that," Jehoshaphat said. "Let's hear what he has to say."

2Chr.18.8

So the king of Israel ordered one of his men, "Quickly, get Micaiah son of Imlah."

2Chr.18.8

So the king of Israel called one of his officials and said, "Bring Micaiah son of Imlah at once."

2Chr.18.8

Then the king of Israel called one of his officers and said, "Bring Micaiah the son of Imla quickly!"

2Chr.18.8

So the king of Israel called one of his officials and said, "Quick! Go and get Micaiah son of Imlah."

2Chr.18.9

Meanwhile, the king of Israel and Jehoshaphat were seated on their thrones, dressed in their royal robes, resplendent in front of the Samaria city gates. All the prophets were staging a prophecy-performance for their benefit.

2Chr.18.9

Dressed in their royal robes, the king of Israel and Jehoshaphat king of Judah were sitting on their thrones at the threshing floor by the entrance to the gate of Samaria, with all the prophets prophesying before them.

2Chr.18.9

The king of Israel and Jehoshaphat king of Judah, clothed in their robes, sat each on his throne; and they sat at a threshing floor at the entrance of the gate of Samaria; and all the prophets prophesied before them.

2Chr.18.9

King Ahab of Israel and King Jehoshaphat of Judah, dressed in their royal robes, were sitting on thrones at the threshing floor near the gate of Samaria. All of Ahab's prophets were prophesying there in front of them.

2Chr.18.10

Zedekiah son of Kenaanah had even made a set of iron horns, and brandishing them, called out, "GOD's word! With these horns you'll gore Aram until there's nothing left of them!"

2Chr.18.10

Now Zedekiah son of Kenaanah had made iron horns, and he declared, "This is what the LORD says: 'With these you will gore the Arameans until they are destroyed.'"

2Chr.18.10

Now Zedekiah the son of Chenaanah had made horns of iron for himself; and he said, "Thus says the LORD: "With these you shall gore the Syrians until they are destroyed."'

2Chr.18.10

One of them, Zedekiah son of Kenaanah, made some iron horns and proclaimed, "This is what the LORD says: With these horns you will gore the Arameans to death!"

2Chr.18.11

All the prophets chimed in, "Yes! Go for Ramoth Gilead! An easy victory! GOD's gift to the king!"

2Chr.18.11

All the other prophets were prophesying the same thing. "Attack Ramoth Gilead and be victorious," they said, "for the LORD will give it into the king's hand."

2Chr.18.11

And all the prophets prophesied so, saying, "Go up to Ramoth Gilead and prosper, for the LORD will deliver it into the king's hand."

2Chr.18.11

All the other prophets agreed. "Yes," they said, "go up to Ramoth-gilead and be victorious. The LORD will give you a glorious victory!"

2Chr.18.12

The messenger who went to get Micaiah told him, "The prophets have all said Yes to the king. Make it unanimous--vote Yes!"

2Chr.18.12

The messenger who had gone to summon Micaiah said to him, "Look, as one man the other prophets are predicting success for the king. Let your word agree with theirs, and speak favorably."

2Chr.18.12

Then the messenger who had gone to call Micaiah spoke to him, saying, "Now listen, the words of the prophets with one accord encourage the king. Therefore please let your word be like the word of one of them, and speak encouragement."

2Chr.18.12

Meanwhile, the messenger who went to get Micaiah said to him, "Look, all the prophets are promising victory for the king. Be sure that you agree with them and promise success."

2Chr.18.13

But Micaiah said, "As sure as GOD lives, what God says, I'll say."

2Chr.18.13

But Micaiah said, "As surely as the LORD lives, I can tell him only what my God says."

2Chr.18.13

And Micaiah said, "As the LORD lives, whatever my God says, that I will speak."

2Chr.18.13

But Micaiah replied, "As surely as the LORD lives, I will say only what my God tells me to say."

2Chr.18.14

With Micaiah before him, the king asked him, "So, Micaiah--do we attack Ramoth Gilead? Or do we hold back?Go ahead," he said, "an easy victory! God's gift to the king."

2Chr.18.14

When he arrived, the king asked him, "Micaiah, shall we go to war against Ramoth Gilead, or shall I refrain?Attack and be victorious," he answered, "for they will be given into your hand."

2Chr.18.14

Then he came to the king; and the king said to him, "Micaiah, shall we go to war against Ramoth Gilead, or shall I refrain?" And he said, "Go and prosper, and they shall be delivered into your hand!"

2Chr.18.14

When Micaiah arrived before the king, Ahab asked him, "Micaiah, should we go to war against Ramoth-gilead or not?" And Micaiah replied, "Go right ahead! It will be a glorious victory!"

2Chr.18.15

"Not so fast," said the king. "How many times have I made you promise under oath to tell me the truth and nothing but the truth?"

2Chr.18.15

The king said to him, "How many times must I make you swear to tell me nothing but the truth in the name of the LORD?"

2Chr.18.15

So the king said to him, "How many times shall I make you swear that you tell me nothing but the truth in the name of the LORD?"

2Chr.18.15

But the king replied sharply, "How many times must I demand that you speak only the truth when you speak for the LORD?"

2Chr.18.16

"All right," said Micaiah, "since you insist... I saw all of Israel scattered over the hills, sheep with no shepherd. Then GOD spoke, "These poor people have no one to tell them what to do. Let them go home and do the best they can for themselves.'"

2Chr.18.16

Then Micaiah answered, "I saw all Israel scattered on the hills like sheep without a shepherd, and the LORD said, 'These people have no master. Let each one go home in peace.'"

2Chr.18.16

Then he said, "I saw all Israel scattered on the mountains, as sheep that have no shepherd. And the LORD said, "These have no master. Let each return to his house in peace."'

2Chr.18.16

So Micaiah told him, "In a vision I saw all Israel scattered on the mountains, like sheep without a shepherd. And the LORD said, `Their master has been killed. Send them home in peace.'"

2Chr.18.17

The king of Israel turned to Jehoshaphat, "See! What did I tell you? He never has a good word for me from GOD, only doom."

2Chr.18.17

The king of Israel said to Jehoshaphat, "Didn't I tell you that he never prophesies anything good about me, but only bad?"

2Chr.18.17

And the king of Israel said to Jehoshaphat, "Did I not tell you he would not prophesy good concerning me, but evil?"

2Chr.18.17

"Didn't I tell you?" the king of Israel said to Jehoshaphat. "He does it every time. He never prophesies anything but bad news for me."

2Chr.18.18

Micaiah kept on, "I'm not done yet; listen to GOD's word: I saw GOD enthroned, and all the Angel Armies of heaven standing at attention, ranged on his right and his left.

2Chr.18.18

Micaiah continued, "Therefore hear the word of the LORD: I saw the LORD sitting on his throne with all the host of heaven standing on his right and on his left.

2Chr.18.18

Then Micaiah said, "Therefore hear the word of the LORD: I saw the LORD sitting on His throne, and all the host of heaven standing on His right hand and His left.

2Chr.18.18

Then Micaiah continued, "Listen to what the LORD says! I saw the LORD sitting on his throne with all the armies of heaven on his right and on his left.

2Chr.18.19

And GOD said, "How can we seduce Ahab into attacking Ramoth Gilead?" Some said this, and some said that.

2Chr.18.19

And the LORD said, 'Who will entice Ahab king of Israel into attacking Ramoth Gilead and going to his death there?'"One suggested this, and another that.

2Chr.18.19

And the LORD said, "Who will persuade Ahab king of Israel to go up, that he may fall at Ramoth Gilead?' So one spoke in this manner, and another spoke in that manner.

2Chr.18.19

And the LORD said, `Who can entice King Ahab of Israel to go into battle against Ramoth-gilead so that he can be killed there?' There were many suggestions,

2Chr.18.20

Then a bold angel stepped out, stood before GOD, and said, "I'll seduce him.And how will you do it?" said GOD.

2Chr.18.20

Finally, a spirit came forward, stood before the LORD and said, 'I will entice him.'"'By what means?' the LORD asked.

2Chr.18.20

Then a spirit came forward and stood before the LORD, and said, "I will persuade him.' The LORD said to him, "In what way?'

2Chr.18.20

until finally a spirit approached the LORD and said, `I can do it!'" `How will you do this?' the LORD asked.

2Chr.18.21

"Easy," said the angel, "I'll get all the prophets to lie.That should do it," said GOD; "On your way--seduce him!"

2Chr.18.21

"'I will go and be a lying spirit in the mouths of all his prophets,' he said. "'You will succeed in enticing him,' said the LORD. 'Go and do it.'

2Chr.18.21

So he said, "I will go out and be a lying spirit in the mouth of all his prophets.' And the LORD said, "You shall persuade him and also prevail; go out and do so.'

2Chr.18.21

"And the spirit replied, `I will go out and inspire all Ahab's prophets to speak lies.'" `You will succeed,' said the LORD. `Go ahead and do it.'

2Chr.18.22

"And that's what has happened. GOD filled the mouths of your puppet prophets with seductive lies. GOD has pronounced your doom."

2Chr.18.22

"So now the LORD has put a lying spirit in the mouths of these prophets of yours. The LORD has decreed disaster for you."

2Chr.18.22

Therefore look! The LORD has put a lying spirit in the mouth of these prophets of yours, and the LORD has declared disaster against you."

2Chr.18.22

"So you see, the LORD has put a lying spirit in the mouths of your prophets. For the LORD has determined disaster for you."

2Chr.18.23

Just then Zedekiah son of Kenaanah came up and slapped Micaiah in the face, saying, "Since when did the Spirit of GOD leave me and take up with you?"

2Chr.18.23

Then Zedekiah son of Kenaanah went up and slapped Micaiah in the face. "Which way did the spirit from the LORD go when he went from me to speak to you?" he asked.

2Chr.18.23

Then Zedekiah the son of Chenaanah went near and struck Micaiah on the cheek, and said, "Which way did the spirit from the LORD go from me to speak to you?"

2Chr.18.23

Then Zedekiah son of Kenaanah walked up to Micaiah and slapped him across the face. "When did the Spirit of the LORD leave me to speak to you?" he demanded.

2Chr.18.24

Micaiah said, "You'll know soon enough; you'll know it when you're frantically and futilely looking for a place to hide."

2Chr.18.24

Micaiah replied, "You will find out on the day you go to hide in an inner room."

2Chr.18.24

And Micaiah said, "Indeed you shall see on that day when you go into an inner chamber to hide!"

2Chr.18.24

And Micaiah replied, "You will find out soon enough, when you find yourself hiding in some secret room!"

2Chr.18.25

The king of Israel had heard enough: "Get Micaiah out of here! Turn him over to Amon the city magistrate and to Joash the king's son

2Chr.18.25

The king of Israel then ordered, "Take Micaiah and send him back to Amon the ruler of the city and to Joash the king's son,

2Chr.18.25

Then the king of Israel said, "Take Micaiah, and return him to Amon the governor of the city and to Joash the king's son;

2Chr.18.25

King Ahab of Israel then ordered, "Arrest Micaiah and take him back to Amon, the governor of the city, and to my son Joash.

2Chr.18.26

with this message: "King's orders! Lock him up in jail; keep him on bread and water until I'm back in one piece.'"

2Chr.18.26

and say, 'This is what the king says: Put this fellow in prison and give him nothing but bread and water until I return safely.'"

2Chr.18.26

and say, "Thus says the king: "Put this fellow in prison, and feed him with bread of affliction and water of affliction, until I return in peace.""'

2Chr.18.26

Give them this order from the king: `Put this man in prison, and feed him nothing but bread and water until I return safely from the battle!'"

2Chr.18.27

Micaiah said, If you ever get back in one piece, I'm no prophet of GOD. He added, When it happens, O people, remember where you heard it!

2Chr.18.27

Micaiah declared, "If you ever return safely, the LORD has not spoken through me." Then he added, "Mark my words, all you people!"

2Chr.18.27

But Micaiah said, "If you ever return in peace, the LORD has not spoken by me." And he said, "Take heed, all you people!"

2Chr.18.27

But Micaiah replied, "If you return safely, the LORD has not spoken through me!" Then he added to those standing around, "Take note of what I have said."

1Cor.15.1

Friends, let me go over the Message with you one final time--this Message that I proclaimed and that you made your own; this Message on which you took your stand

1Cor.15.1

Now, brothers, I want to remind you of the gospel I preached to you, which you received and on which you have taken your stand.

1Cor.15.1

Moreover, brethren, I declare to you the gospel which I preached to you, which also you received and in which you stand,

1Cor.15.1

Now let me remind you, dear brothers and sisters, of the Good News I preached to you before. You welcomed it then and still do now, for your faith is built on this wonderful message.

1Cor.15.2

and by which your life has been saved. (I'm assuming, now, that your belief was the real thing and not a passing fancy, that you're in this for good and holding fast.)

1Cor.15.2

By this gospel you are saved, if you hold firmly to the word I preached to you. Otherwise, you have believed in vain.

1Cor.15.2

by which also you are saved, if you hold fast that word which I preached to you--unless you believed in vain.

1Cor.15.2

And it is this Good News that saves you if you firmly believe it--unless, of course, you believed something that was never true in the first place.

1Cor.15.3

The first thing I did was place before you what was placed so emphatically before me: that the Messiah died for our sins, exactly as Scripture tells it;

1Cor.15.3

For what I received I passed on to you as of first importance: that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures,

1Cor.15.3

For I delivered to you first of all that which I also received: that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures,

1Cor.15.3

I passed on to you what was most important and what had also been passed on to me--that Christ died for our sins, just as the Scriptures said.

1Cor.15.4

that he was buried; that he was raised from death on the third day, again exactly as Scripture says;

1Cor.15.4

that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures,

1Cor.15.4

and that He was buried, and that He rose again the third day according to the Scriptures,

1Cor.15.4

He was buried, and he was raised from the dead on the third day, as the Scriptures said.

1Cor.15.5

that he presented himself alive to Peter, then to his closest followers,

1Cor.15.5

and that he appeared to Peter, and then to the Twelve.

1Cor.15.5

and that He was seen by Cephas, then by the twelve.

1Cor.15.5

He was seen by Peter and then by the twelve apostles.

1Cor.15.6

and later to more than five hundred of his followers all at the same time, most of them still around (although a few have since died);

1Cor.15.6

After that, he appeared to more than five hundred of the brothers at the same time, most of whom are still living, though some have fallen asleep.

1Cor.15.6

After that He was seen by over five hundred brethren at once, of whom the greater part remain to the present, but some have fallen asleep.

1Cor.15.6

After that, he was seen by more than five hundred of his followers at one time, most of whom are still alive, though some have died by now.

1Cor.15.7

that he then spent time with James and the rest of those he commissioned to represent him;

1Cor.15.7

Then he appeared to James, then to all the apostles,

1Cor.15.7

After that He was seen by James, then by all the apostles.

1Cor.15.7

Then he was seen by James and later by all the apostles.

1Cor.15.8

and that he finally presented himself alive to me.

1Cor.15.8

and last of all he appeared to me also, as to one abnormally born.

1Cor.15.8

Then last of all He was seen by me also, as by one born out of due time.

1Cor.15.8

Last of all, I saw him, too, long after the others, as though I had been born at the wrong time.

1Cor.15.9

It was fitting that I bring up the rear. I don't deserve to be included in that inner circle, as you well know, having spent all those early years trying my best to stamp God's church right out of existence.

1Cor.15.9

For I am the least of the apostles and do not even deserve to be called an apostle, because I persecuted the church of God.

1Cor.15.9

For I am the least of the apostles, who am not worthy to be called an apostle, because I persecuted the church of God.

1Cor.15.9

For I am the least of all the apostles, and I am not worthy to be called an apostle after the way I persecuted the church of God.

1Cor.15.10

But because God was so gracious, so very generous, here I am. And I'm not about to let his grace go to waste. Haven't I worked hard trying to do more than any of the others? Even then, my work didn't amount to all that much. It was God giving me the work to do, God giving me the energy to do it.

1Cor.15.10

But by the grace of God I am what I am, and his grace to me was not without effect. No, I worked harder than all of them--yet not I, but the grace of God that was with me.

1Cor.15.10

But by the grace of God I am what I am, and His grace toward me was not in vain; but I labored more abundantly than they all, yet not I, but the grace of God which was with me.

1Cor.15.10

But whatever I am now, it is all because God poured out his special favor on me--and not without results. For I have worked harder than all the other apostles, yet it was not I but God who was working through me by his grace.

1Cor.15.11

So whether you heard it from me or from those others, it's all the same: We spoke God's truth and you entrusted your lives.

1Cor.15.11

Whether, then, it was I or they, this is what we preach, and this is what you believed.

1Cor.15.11

Therefore, whether it was I or they, so we preach and so you believed.

1Cor.15.11

So it makes no difference whether I preach or they preach. The important thing is that you believed what we preached to you.

1Cor.15.12

Now, let me ask you something profound yet troubling. If you became believers because you trusted the proclamation that Christ is alive, risen from the dead, how can you let people say that there is no such thing as a resurrection?

1Cor.15.12

But if it is preached that Christ has been raised from the dead, how can some of you say that there is no resurrection of the dead?

1Cor.15.12

Now if Christ is preached that He has been raised from the dead, how do some among you say that there is no resurrection of the dead?

1Cor.15.12

But tell me this--since we preach that Christ rose from the dead, why are some of you saying there will be no resurrection of the dead?

1Cor.15.13

If there's no resurrection, there's no living Christ.

1Cor.15.13

If there is no resurrection of the dead, then not even Christ has been raised.

1Cor.15.13

But if there is no resurrection of the dead, then Christ is not risen.

1Cor.15.13

For if there is no resurrection of the dead, then Christ has not been raised either.

1Cor.15.14

And face it--if there's no resurrection for Christ, everything we've told you is smoke and mirrors, and everything you've staked your life on is smoke and mirrors.

1Cor.15.14

And if Christ has not been raised, our preaching is useless and so is your faith.

1Cor.15.14

And if Christ is not risen, then our preaching is empty and your faith is also empty.

1Cor.15.14

And if Christ was not raised, then all our preaching is useless, and your trust in God is useless.

1Cor.15.15

Not only that, but we would be guilty of telling a string of barefaced lies about God, all these affidavits we passed on to you verifying that God raised up Christ--sheer fabrications, if there's no resurrection.

1Cor.15.15

More than that, we are then found to be false witnesses about God, for we have testified about God that he raised Christ from the dead. But he did not raise him if in fact the dead are not raised.

1Cor.15.15

Yes, and we are found false witnesses of God, because we have testified of God that He raised up Christ, whom He did not raise up--if in fact the dead do not rise.

1Cor.15.15

And we apostles would all be lying about God, for we have said that God raised Christ from the grave, but that can't be true if there is no resurrection of the dead.

1Cor.15.16

If corpses can't be raised, then Christ wasn't, because he was indeed dead.

1Cor.15.16

For if the dead are not raised, then Christ has not been raised either.

1Cor.15.16

For if the dead do not rise, then Christ is not risen.

1Cor.15.16

If there is no resurrection of the dead, then Christ has not been raised.

1Cor.15.17

And if Christ wasn't raised, then all you're doing is wandering about in the dark, as lost as ever.

1Cor.15.17

And if Christ has not been raised, your faith is futile; you are still in your sins.

1Cor.15.17

And if Christ is not risen, your faith is futile; you are still in your sins!

1Cor.15.17

And if Christ has not been raised, then your faith is useless, and you are still under condemnation for your sins.

1Cor.15.18

It's even worse for those who died hoping in Christ and resurrection, because they're already in their graves.

1Cor.15.18

Then those also who have fallen asleep in Christ are lost.

1Cor.15.18

Then also those who have fallen asleep in Christ have perished.

1Cor.15.18

In that case, all who have died believing in Christ have perished!

1Cor.15.19

If all we get out of Christ is a little inspiration for a few short years, we're a pretty sorry lot.

1Cor.15.19

If only for this life we have hope in Christ, we are to be pitied more than all men.

1Cor.15.19

If in this life only we have hope in Christ, we are of all men the most pitiable.

1Cor.15.19

And if we have hope in Christ only for this life, we are the most miserable people in the world.

1Cor.15.20

But the truth is that Christ has been raised up, the first in a long legacy of those who are going to leave the cemeteries.

1Cor.15.20

But Christ has indeed been raised from the dead, the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep.

1Cor.15.20

But now Christ is risen from the dead, and has become the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep.

1Cor.15.20

But the fact is that Christ has been raised from the dead. He has become the first of a great harvest of those who will be raised to life again.

1Cor.15.21

There is a nice symmetry in this: Death initially came by a man, and resurrection from death came by a man.

1Cor.15.21

For since death came through a man, the resurrection of the dead comes also through a man.

1Cor.15.21

For since by man came death, by Man also came the resurrection of the dead.

1Cor.15.21

So you see, just as death came into the world through a man, Adam, now the resurrection from the dead has begun through another man, Christ.

1Cor.15.22

Everybody dies in Adam; everybody comes alive in Christ.

1Cor.15.22

For as in Adam all die, so in Christ all will be made alive.

1Cor.15.22

For as in Adam all die, even so in Christ all shall be made alive.

1Cor.15.22

Everyone dies because all of us are related to Adam, the first man. But all who are related to Christ, the other man, will be given new life.

1Cor.15.23

But we have to wait our turn: Christ is first, then those with him at his Coming,

1Cor.15.23

But each in his own turn: Christ, the firstfruits; then, when he comes, those who belong to him.

1Cor.15.23

But each one in his own order: Christ the firstfruits, afterward those who are Christ's at His coming.

1Cor.15.23

But there is an order to this resurrection: Christ was raised first; then when Christ comes back, all his people will be raised.

1Cor.15.24

the grand consummation when, after crushing the opposition, he hands over his kingdom to God the Father.

1Cor.15.24

Then the end will come, when he hands over the kingdom to God the Father after he has destroyed all dominion, authority and power.

1Cor.15.24

Then comes the end, when He delivers the kingdom to God the Father, when He puts an end to all rule and all authority and power.

1Cor.15.24

After that the end will come, when he will turn the Kingdom over to God the Father, having put down all enemies of every kind.

1Cor.15.25

He won't let up until the last enemy is down--

1Cor.15.25

For he must reign until he has put all his enemies under his feet.

1Cor.15.25

For He must reign till He has put all enemies under His feet.

1Cor.15.25

For Christ must reign until he humbles all his enemies beneath his feet.

1Cor.15.26

and the very last enemy is death!

1Cor.15.26

The last enemy to be destroyed is death.

1Cor.15.26

The last enemy that will be destroyed is death.

1Cor.15.26

And the last enemy to be destroyed is death.

1Cor.15.27

As the psalmist said, "He laid them low, one and all; he walked all over them." When Scripture says that "he walked all over them," it's obvious that he couldn't at the same time be walked on.

1Cor.15.27

For he "has put everything under his feet." Now when it says that "everything" has been put under him, it is clear that this does not include God himself, who put everything under Christ.

1Cor.15.27

For "He has put all things under His feet." But when He says "all things are put under Him," it is evident that He who put all things under Him is excepted.

1Cor.15.27

For the Scriptures say, "God has given him authority over all things." (Of course, when it says "authority over all things," it does not include God himself, who gave Christ his authority.)

1Cor.15.28

When everything and everyone is finally under God's rule, the Son will step down, taking his place with everyone else, showing that God's rule is absolutely comprehensive--a perfect ending!

1Cor.15.28

When he has done this, then the Son himself will be made subject to him who put everything under him, so that God may be all in all.

1Cor.15.28

Now when all things are made subject to Him, then the Son Himself will also be subject to Him who put all things under Him, that God may be all in all.

1Cor.15.28

Then, when he has conquered all things, the Son will present himself to God, so that God, who gave his Son authority over all things, will be utterly supreme over everything everywhere.

1Cor.15.29

Why do you think people offer themselves to be baptized for those already in the grave? If there's no chance of resurrection for a corpse, if God's power stops at the cemetery gates, why do we keep doing things that suggest he's going to clean the place out someday, pulling everyone up on their feet alive?

1Cor.15.29

Now if there is no resurrection, what will those do who are baptized for the dead? If the dead are not raised at all, why are people baptized for them?

1Cor.15.29

Otherwise, what will they do who are baptized for the dead, if the dead do not rise at all? Why then are they baptized for the dead?

1Cor.15.29

If the dead will not be raised, then what point is there in people being baptized for those who are dead? Why do it unless the dead will someday rise again?

1Cor.15.30

And why do you think I keep risking my neck in this dangerous work?

1Cor.15.30

And as for us, why do we endanger ourselves every hour?

1Cor.15.30

And why do we stand in jeopardy every hour?

1Cor.15.30

And why should we ourselves be continually risking our lives, facing death hour by hour?

1Cor.15.31

I look death in the face practically every day I live. Do you think I'd do this if I wasn't convinced of your resurrection and mine as guaranteed by the resurrected Messiah Jesus?

1Cor.15.31

I die every day--I mean that, brothers--just as surely as I glory over you in Christ Jesus our Lord.

1Cor.15.31

I affirm, by the boasting in you which I have in Christ Jesus our Lord, I die daily.

1Cor.15.31

For I swear, dear brothers and sisters, I face death daily. This is as certain as my pride in what the Lord Jesus Christ has done in you.

1Cor.15.32

Do you think I was just trying to act heroic when I fought the wild beasts at Ephesus, hoping it wouldn't be the end of me? Not on your life! It's resurrection, resurrection, always resurrection, that undergirds what I do and say, the way I live. If there's no resurrection, "We eat, we drink, the next day we die," and that's all there is to it.

1Cor.15.32

If I fought wild beasts in Ephesus for merely human reasons, what have I gained? If the dead are not raised, "Let us eat and drink, for tomorrow we die."

1Cor.15.32

If, in the manner of men, I have fought with beasts at Ephesus, what advantage is it to me? If the dead do not rise, "Let us eat and drink, for tomorrow we die!"

1Cor.15.32

And what value was there in fighting wild beasts--those men of Ephesus--if there will be no resurrection from the dead? If there is no resurrection, "Let's feast and get drunk, for tomorrow we die!"

1Cor.15.33

But don't fool yourselves. Don't let yourselves be poisoned by this anti-resurrection loose talk. "Bad company ruins good manners."

1Cor.15.33

Do not be misled: "Bad company corrupts good character."

1Cor.15.33

Do not be deceived: "Evil company corrupts good habits."

1Cor.15.33

Don't be fooled by those who say such things, for "bad company corrupts good character."

1Cor.15.34

Think straight. Awaken to the holiness of life. No more playing fast and loose with resurrection facts. Ignorance of God is a luxury you can't afford in times like these. Aren't you embarrassed that you've let this kind of thing go on as long as you have?

1Cor.15.34

Come back to your senses as you ought, and stop sinning; for there are some who are ignorant of God--I say this to your shame.

1Cor.15.34

Awake to righteousness, and do not sin; for some do not have the knowledge of God. I speak this to your shame.

1Cor.15.34

Come to your senses and stop sinning. For to your shame I say that some of you don't even know God.

Ps.102.1

GOD, listen! Listen to my prayer, listen to the pain in my cries.

Ps.102.1

Hear my prayer, O LORD; let my cry for help come to you.

Ps.102.1

Hear my prayer, O LORD, And let my cry come to You.

Ps.102.1

LORD, hear my prayer! Listen to my plea!

Ps.102.2

Don't turn your back on me just when I need you so desperately. Pay attention! This is a cry for help! And hurry--this can't wait!

Ps.102.2

Do not hide your face from me when I am in distress. Turn your ear to me; when I call, answer me quickly.

Ps.102.2

Do not hide Your face from me in the day of my trouble; Incline Your ear to me; In the day that I call, answer me speedily.

Ps.102.2

Don't turn away from me in my time of distress. Bend down your ear and answer me quickly when I call to you,

Ps.102.3

I'm wasting away to nothing, I'm burning up with fever.

Ps.102.3

For my days vanish like smoke; my bones burn like glowing embers.

Ps.102.3

For my days are consumed like smoke, And my bones are burned like a hearth.

Ps.102.3

for my days disappear like smoke, and my bones burn like red-hot coals.

Ps.102.4

I'm a ghost of my former self, half-consumed already by terminal illness.

Ps.102.4

My heart is blighted and withered like grass; I forget to eat my food.

Ps.102.4

My heart is stricken and withered like grass, So that I forget to eat my bread.

Ps.102.4

My heart is sick, withered like grass, and I have lost my appetite.

Ps.102.5

My jaws ache from gritting my teeth; I'm nothing but skin and bones.

Ps.102.5

Because of my loud groaning I am reduced to skin and bones.

Ps.102.5

Because of the sound of my groaning My bones cling to my skin.

Ps.102.5

Because of my groaning, I am reduced to skin and bones.

Ps.102.6

I'm like a buzzard in the desert, a crow perched on the rubble.

Ps.102.6

I am like a desert owl, like an owl among the ruins.

Ps.102.6

I am like a pelican of the wilderness; I am like an owl of the desert.

Ps.102.6

I am like an owl in the desert, like a lonely owl in a far-off wilderness.

Ps.102.7

Insomniac, I twitter away, mournful as a sparrow in the gutter.

Ps.102.7

I lie awake; I have become like a bird alone on a roof.

Ps.102.7

I lie awake, And am like a sparrow alone on the housetop.

Ps.102.7

I lie awake, lonely as a solitary bird on the roof.

Ps.102.8

All day long my enemies taunt me, while others just curse.

Ps.102.8

All day long my enemies taunt me; those who rail against me use my name as a curse.

Ps.102.8

My enemies reproach me all day long; Those who deride me swear an oath against me.

Ps.102.8

My enemies taunt me day after day. They mock and curse me.

Ps.102.9

They bring in meals--casseroles of ashes! I draw drink from a barrel of my tears.

Ps.102.9

For I eat ashes as my food and mingle my drink with tears

Ps.102.9

For I have eaten ashes like bread, And mingled my drink with weeping,

Ps.102.9

I eat ashes instead of my food. My tears run down into my drink

Ps.102.10

And all because of your furious anger; you swept me up and threw me out.

Ps.102.10

because of your great wrath, for you have taken me up and thrown me aside.

Ps.102.10

Because of Your indignation and Your wrath; For You have lifted me up and cast me away.

Ps.102.10

because of your anger and wrath. For you have picked me up and thrown me out.

Ps.102.11

There's nothing left of me--a withered weed, swept clean from the path.

Ps.102.11

My days are like the evening shadow; I wither away like grass.

Ps.102.11

My days are like a shadow that lengthens, And I wither away like grass.

Ps.102.11

My life passes as swiftly as the evening shadows. I am withering like grass.