Kingdom Seekers

HOUSE OF GOD - THE CHURCH

2008-11-08T14:40:00.000-08:00

THE CHURCH - THE HOUSE OF GOD

The word “Church” does not appear in the Old Testament; however, in the Book of Acts reference is made to it in relation to an Old Testament event.
Acts 7:37-38

37 This is that Moses, which said unto the children of Israel, A prophet shall the Lord your God raise up unto you of your brethren, like unto me; him shall ye hear.

38 This is he, that was in the church in the wilderness with the angel which spake to him in the mount Sina, and with our fathers: who received the lively oracles to give unto us:
KJV

This word “Church” is never used in the New Testament to describe a building, contrary to the popular usage today. This word is a translation of the GREEK> ekklesia (ek-klay-see'-ah); a calling out, i.e. (concretely) a popular meeting, especially a religious congregation (Jewish synagogue, or Christian community of members on earth or saints in heaven or both): translated in the King James Version of Scripture as – assembly or church. The first mention is in Matthew 16:18.
Matt. 16:18

18 And I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.
KJV

The kingdom (that part of the kingdom which had been offered to Israel - that nation that God had chosen to establish His Theocracy; - the kingdom of the heavens, here called “the kingdom of God” in Matt. 21:43) was taken from Israel with a view to the previously mentioned Church being called into existence to be the recipient of the offer. This is what Paul was addressing in Rome, recorded in the Book of Acts:
Acts 28:28

28 Be it known therefore unto you, that the salvation of God is sent unto the Gentiles, and that they will hear it.
KJV

This is the same group Peter made reference to:

1 Peter 2:9-10

9 But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light:

10 Which in time past were not a people, but are now the people of God: which had not obtained mercy, but now have obtained mercy.
KJV

The term “House of God” is used by most Christians to describe the building that houses the meetings of the Church. This must be an incorrect expression as we see a strong rebuke given by Stephen to those who would build a “house” for God.
Acts 7:48-50

48 Howbeit the most High dwelleth not in temples made with hands; as saith the prophet,

49 Heaven is my throne, and earth is my footstool: what house will ye build me? saith the Lord: or what is the place of my rest?

50 Hath not my hand made all these things?
KJV

In the Old Testament, the Tabernacle as well as the Temple were referred to as the “house of God” because the symbolic presence of God dwelled there (the Ark of the Covenant). However, God now dwells in the believer and so he or she becomes the Temple/House of God.
1 Cor 6:19

19 What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own?
KJV

1 Peter 2:5

5 Ye also, as lively stones, are built up a spiritual house, an holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices , acceptable to God by Jesus Christ.
KJV

Satan has blinded the eyes of men to be misguided into thinking the building in which the Church meets is the “House of God,” and so much attention and money is put into it to even further his cause.

One may ask, “Is this really an important issue to understand?” It is most important because if we don’t we miss a very important truth.
1 Tim 3:15

15 But if I tarry long, that thou mayest know how thou oughtest to behave thyself in the house of God , which is the church of the living God, the pillar and ground of the truth.
KJV
If the “House of God” is a building, then we need only to know how to behave ourselves when we are there; but if it’s the spiritual house of which the believer is a part, he must behave himself at all times.

Moses in the Old Testament was not arbitrarily told to build a Tabernacle, but to prepare a people: (See Deut. 32:1-21). A people whose failure to bear fruit and rejection of God’s kingdom brought about a “new people”; the Church which is predominantly made up of Gentiles. Jews can be a part of this Church but they have to put their faith in Jesus Christ to be recipient of this new creation.
2 Cor 5:17

17 Therefore if any man be in Christ , he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.
KJV

When David desired to build a house for God, he was told by Nathan the prophet that God would build him – David a house (1 Chron. 17:1-15) and his seed, in (v. 12) was primarily fulfilled in his son Solomon, but the secondary reference had to be Jesus Christ, the only One with an eternal throne. Let us rejoice in the fact that we are apart of this house through David’s greater son, Jesus Christ. And may our behaviour in this house be one that will cause the Lord of glory to commend us at His Judgment Seat some day.
1 Peter 2:1-6
2:1 Wherefore laying aside all malice, and all guile, and hypocrisies, and envies, and all evil speakings,

2 As newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby:

3 If so be ye have tasted that the Lord is gracious.

4 To whom coming, as unto a living stone, disallowed indeed of men, but chosen of God, and precious,

5 Ye also, as lively stones, are built up a spiritual house, an holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices, acceptable to God by Jesus Christ.

6 Wherefore also it is contained in the scripture, Behold, I lay in Sion a chief corner stone, elect, precious: and he that believeth on him shall not be confounded.
KJV

THE BRIDE TAKEN FROM THE BODY

2008-09-09T08:43:00.000-07:00

THE BRIDE ACCORDING TO THE SCRIPTURE

Rom 5:12-14

12 Wherefore, as by one man sin entered into the world, and death by sin; and so death passed upon all men, for that all have sinned:

13(For until the law sin was in the world: but sin is not imputed when there is no law.

14 Nevertheless death reigned from Adam to Moses, even over them that had not sinned after the similitude of Adam's transgression, who is the figure of him that was to come.
KJV

The account of Adam and Eve in Genesis chapters one through three provides us not only with the one true account of man’s beginning, but the account also provides us with the original type of Christ and His bride. God has interwoven great spiritual lessons into the account of man’s historic beginning, reflecting upon the person and work of His Son.

Adam was the first man upon the earth. He was also a type of Christ, the Second Man, the Last Adam:
1 Cor 15:45-47

45 And so it is written, The first man Adam was made a living soul; the last Adam was made a quickening spirit.

46 Howbeit that was not first which is spiritual, but that which is natural; and afterward that which is spiritual.

47 The first man is of the earth, earthy: the second man is the Lord from heaven.
KJV

The experiences of Adam and Eve prefigure the experiences of Christ and His bride. The basic principles relating to the formation of the bride and the redemptive work of the Son in relation to the bride are set forth in these chapters and remain unchanged throughout Scripture.

THE FORMATION OF THE BRIDE

Gen 1:27

27 So God created man in his own image, in the image of God created he him; male and female created he them.
KJV

Gen 2:18

18 And the LORD God said, It is not good that the man should be alone; I will make him an help meet for him.
KJV

Gen 2:21-22

21 And the LORD God caused a deep sleep to fall upon Adam and he slept: and he took one of his ribs, and closed up the flesh instead thereof;

22 And the rib, which the LORD God had taken from man, made he a woman, and brought her unto the man.
KJV

1. OUT OF THE BODY

Eve was created in Adam at the very beginning, but was not brought into existence as a separate entity until a later point in time. Adam was put to sleep, his side opened, and from this open side God took one of his ribs and formed Eve. Eve was taken out of Adam and then presented back to Adam for “a helpmeet.” Eve a part of the very being of Adam; and now, a separate entity from Adam; deemed Adam incomplete without her. In this respect, Eve, being presented back to Adam for “a helpmeet,” completed Adam. In the highest sense, God looked upon the existing union as “one flesh”
Gen 2:21-24

21 And the LORD God caused a deep sleep to fall upon Adam and he slept: and he took one of his ribs, and closed up the flesh instead thereof;

22 And the rib, which the LORD God had taken from man, made he a woman, and brought her unto the man.

23 And Adam said, This is now bone of my bones, and flesh of my flesh: she shall be called Woman, because she was taken out of Man.

24 Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh.
KJV

The bride of Christ has existed in the Son from eternity past. The bride’s existence and salvation dated from “before the foundation of the world”

Eph 1:4

4 According as he hath chosen us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before him in love:
KJV

Rev 13:8

8 And all that dwell upon the earth shall worship him, whose names are not written in the book of life of the Lamb slain from the foundation of the world.
KJV

The bride, however, could not be brought into existence as a separate entity until after the Son had been put to sleep and His side opened.

This occurred at Calvary. The Son died, and His side was opened. Out of His opened side issued forth “blood” and “water” – the two elements necessary to bring into existence the bride, separate from the body, but still part of the body: [John 3:5 “Except a man be born of water and the Spirit…..]
John 19:34

34 But one of the soldiers with a spear pierced his side, and forthwith came there out blood and water.
KJV
Once the complete, redeemed bride has been brought into existence through the means which God has provided, the bride will be presented back to the Son, completing the Son. In the highest sense, God will look upon the existing union as “one flesh.” (Eph. 5:26-32).

God’s past work of bringing Eve into existence and His present work (to be completed in the future) of bringing His Son’s bride into existence must be studied in the light of one and other. In Genesis 2:22 God took a rib from Adam’s side and “made he a women.” The Hebrew word translated “made” in this verse is banah, which means, “to build.” Eve was created in Adam at the beginning, later taken out of Adam, built into a bride, and then presented back to Adam. In Matthew 16:18 Christ said, “…upon this rock I will build my Church.” The Church (in the sense in which the word is used in Matt. 16:18), created in Christ from eternity past, is presently being called out of the body and built into a bride. And the time when this process will be completed and the bride presented back to the Son lies in the future.

(The word “Church” comes from the Greek word [ekklesia], which means “called out.” And this word is used in the New Testament in more than one way. It is used during the present dispensation relative to all of the saved, for the bride has yet to be singled out and set apart from the remainder of the saved. That is to say, the bride, though presently being called out of the called, has yet to be set apart as a separate entity [e.g. Rev. 1-3]. However, looking beyond this present dispensation [following the time when the bride will have been set apart in the preceding manner], the use of the word ekklesia becomes more restrictive in the way the matter is looked upon in the NT.

Referring to time beyond the present dispensation, the word ekklesia is used relative to those who will be placed as firstborn sons, adopted [“adoption” (Gk. huiothesia) means son-placing] – placed in a position to rule and to reign, for, within the human realm, firstborn sons alone can rule:
Heb 12:23

23 To the general assembly and church of the firstborn, which are written in heaven, and to God the Judge of all, and to the spirits of just men made perfect,
KJV

And those sons, looked upon in another respect, will rule as consort queen with God’s Son, Jesus. These will be the ones who, in accord with Genesis chapter two, will be removed from Christ’s body, forming the bride of the Second Man, the Last Adam.

The “called out” being removed from the “called” is what is in view in Paul’s reference to an “out-resurrection” in Phil. 3:11 [“resurrection,” KJV; Gk. ex anastasis, “out-resurrection”]. Ex anastasis is a compound word which literally means “to stand up - out of.” It is one group standing up out of a single larger group – the “called out” being removed from the “called.” And this will result from issues and determinations emanating from the judgment seat of Christ.

Remaining within the future scope of the matter and the exact meaning of the word ekklesia [called out], the clear teaching of Scripture attests to the fact that those who will form the bride in the coming day are not those presently being removed from the world. Those taken from the world are the “called.” The “called out” are to be taken from the “called,” [the saved, the body].

So we see then, the Church in the coming day - will be the body of Christ [cf. Col. 1:18] in the same sense that Eve was the body of Adam. She was bone of his bones, and flesh of his flesh [Gen. 2:23]. ALL of Eve was Adam’s body, but she was not ALL of Adam’s body.

“We are members of His body, of His flesh, of His bones” [Eph. 5:30]. ALL of the bride will be of Christ’s body, but not ALL of His body will be the bride.)

Thus, contrary to that which is commonly believed in Christendom, the bride – in either the type or the antitype – does not constitute all of the body. Just as Eve was taken out of Adam’s body, the bride of Christ will be taken out of His Son’s body. The entire body over which He is the Head consists of all the saved during this present dispensation. But the bride consists of a smaller group which is presently being called out of the larger group, i.e. called out of the body.

All of the saved are “called” and form part of the body, but only the “called out” – those to be taken out of the body – will form the bride of Christ. The bride will be a selection out of a selected.
Matt 22:14

14 For many are called, but few are chosen [lit. ‘few are called out’]
KJV

The type has been set, and the antitype MUST follow the type in exact detail.

Note that man had no part in God’s work surrounding the formation of Eve – from the time of her creation in Adam; neither can man have a part in the formation of the Son’s bride. It was Christ, not man, Who said, “…I WILL BUILD my Church.”

CHRISTIANS OFF COURSE

2008-08-18T07:31:00.000-07:00

THERE IS NO REAL FEAR FOR GOD

We are living in a time when almost anything goes, Christians today are making adjustments to be accepted in the world’s system; instead of setting standards that the world will admire and adhere to. Churches are now “sanctifying worldly acts” to make them acceptable in their services. A common phenomenon is “praise dance” and the so-call Scriptural bearing for that is: David danced before the Lord (2 Sam. 6:12-23). But has anyone taken the time out to look at that word “dance” in verse 14 and see if David was really doing what's done these days in our Churches?

The Hebrew: OT:3769 karar (kaw-rar'); a primitive root; to dance (i.e. whirl): -dance (-ing).

Let us look at some references that show how God deal with His people as it relates to sin and disobedience and consider if He deals differently today:

Cain:
Gen 4:8-13

8 And Cain talked with Abel his brother: and it came to pass, when they were in the field, that Cain rose up against Abel his brother, and slew him.

9 And the LORD said unto Cain, Where is Abel thy brother? And he said, I know not: Am I my brother's keeper?

10 And he said, What hast thou done? the voice of thy brother's blood crieth unto me from the ground.

11 And now art thou cursed from the earth, which hath opened her mouth to receive thy brother's blood from thy hand;

12 When thou tillest the ground, it shall not henceforth yield unto thee her strength; a fugitive and a vagabond shalt thou be in the earth.

13 And Cain said unto the LORD, My punishment is greater than I can bear.
KJV

Saul:
1 Chron 10:11-14

11 And when all Jabesh-gilead heard all that the Philistines had done to Saul,

12 They arose, all the valiant men, and took away the body of Saul, and the bodies of his sons, and brought them to Jabesh, and buried their bones under the oak in Jabesh, and fasted seven days.

13 So Saul died for his transgression which he committed against the LORD, even against the word of the LORD, which he kept not, and also for asking counsel of one that had a familiar spirit, to inquire of it;

14 And inquired not of the LORD: therefore he slew him, and turned the kingdom unto David the son of Jesse.
KJV

Uzzah:
2 Sam 6:4-7

4 And they brought it out of the house of Abinadab which was at Gibeah, accompanying the ark of God: and Ahio went before the ark.

5 And David and all the house of Israel played before the LORD on all manner of instruments made of fir wood, even on harps, and on psalteries, and on timbrels, and on cornets, and on cymbals.

6 And when they came to Nachon's threshingfloor, Uzzah put forth his hand to the ark of God, and took hold of it; for the oxen shook it.

7 And the anger of the LORD was kindled against Uzzah; and God smote him there for his error; and there he died by the ark of God.
KJV

Moses:
Deut 34:1-5
34:1 And Moses went up from the plains of Moab unto the mountain of Nebo, to the top of Pisgah, that is over against Jericho. And the LORD shewed him all the land of Gilead, unto Dan,

2 And all Naphtali, and the land of Ephraim, and Manasseh, and all the land of Judah, unto the utmost sea,

3 And the south, and the plain of the valley of Jericho, the city of palm trees, unto Zoar.

4 And the LORD said unto him, This is the land which I sware unto Abraham, unto Isaac, and unto Jacob, saying, I will give it unto thy seed: I have caused thee to see it with thine eyes, but thou shalt not go over thither.

5 So Moses the servant of the LORD died there in the land of Moab, according to the word of the LORD.
KJV

Do you remember what Moses’ sin was?
Num 20:8-12

8 Take the rod, and gather thou the assembly together, thou, and Aaron thy brother, and speak ye unto the rock before their eyes; and it shall give forth his water, and thou shalt bring forth to them water out of the rock: so thou shalt give the congregation and their beasts drink.

9 And Moses took the rod from before the LORD, as he commanded him.

10 And Moses and Aaron gathered the congregation together before the rock, and he said unto them, Hear now, ye rebels; must we fetch you water out of this rock?

11 And Moses lifted up his hand, and with his rod he smote the rock twice: and the water came out abundantly, and the congregation drank, and their beasts also.

12 And the LORD spake unto Moses and Aaron, Because ye believed me not, to sanctify me in the eyes of the children of Israel, therefore ye shall not bring this congregation into the land which I have given them.
KJV

The children of Israel:
1 Cor 10:1-11
10:1 Moreover, brethren, I would not that ye should be ignorant, how that all our fathers were under the cloud, and all passed through the sea;

2 And were all baptized unto Moses in the cloud and in the sea;

3 And did all eat the same spiritual meat;

4 And did all drink the same spiritual drink: for they drank of that spiritual Rock that followed them: and that Rock was Christ.

5 But with many of them God was not well pleased: for they were overthrown in the wilderness.

6 Now these things were our examples, to the intent we should not lust after evil things, as they also lusted.

7 Neither be ye idolaters, as were some of them; as it is written, The people sat down to eat and drink, and rose up to play.

8 Neither let us commit fornication, as some of them committed, and fell in one day three and twenty thousand.

9 Neither let us tempt Christ, as some of them also tempted, and were destroyed of serpents.

10 Neither murmur ye, as some of them also murmured, and were destroyed of the destroyer.

11 Now all these things happened unto them for ensamples: and they are written for our admonition, upon whom the ends of the world are come.
KJV

The Marriage Feast:
Matt 22:9-12

9 Go ye therefore into the highways, and as many as ye shall find, bid to the marriage.

10 So those servants went out into the highways, and gathered together all as many as they found, both bad and good: and the wedding was furnished with guests.

11 And when the king came in to see the guests, he saw there a man which had not on a wedding garment:

12 And he saith unto him, Friend, how camest thou in hither not having a wedding garment? And he was speechless.
KJV

The Five Foolish Virgins:
Matt 25:10-13

10 And while they went to buy, the bridegroom came; and they that were ready went in with him to the marriage: and the door was shut.

11 Afterward came also the other virgins, saying, Lord, Lord, open to us.

12 But he answered and said, Verily I say unto you, I know you not.

13 Watch therefore, for ye know neither the day nor the hour wherein the Son of man cometh.
KJV

The Unprofitable Servants:
Matt 25:26-30

26 His lord answered and said unto him, Thou wicked and slothful servant, thou knewest that I reap where I sowed not, and gather where I have not strawed:

27 Thou oughtest therefore to have put my money to the exchangers, and then at my coming I should have received mine own with usury.

28 Take therefore the talent from him, and give it unto him which hath ten talents.

29 For unto every one that hath shall be given, and he shall have abundance: but from him that hath not shall be taken away even that which he hath.

30 And cast ye the unprofitable servant into outer darkness: there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth.
KJV

The Unfaithful Servant:
Luke 19:20-27

20 And another came, saying, Lord, behold, here is thy pound, which I have kept laid up in a napkin:

21 For I feared thee, because thou art an austere man: thou takest up that thou layedst not down, and reapest that thou didst not sow.

22 And he saith unto him, Out of thine own mouth will I judge thee, thou wicked servant. Thou knewest that I was an austere man, taking up that I laid not down, and reaping that I did not sow:

23 Wherefore then gavest not thou my money into the bank, that at my coming I might have required mine own with usury?

24 And he said unto them that stood by, Take from him the pound, and give it to him that hath ten pounds.

25(And they said unto him, Lord, he hath ten pounds.)

26 For I say unto you, That unto every one which hath shall be given; and from him that hath not, even that he hath shall be taken away from him.

27 But those mine enemies, which would not that I should reign over them, bring hither, and slay them before me.
KJV

Where Sin Abounds:
Rom 5:19-21

19 For as by one man's disobedience many were made sinners, so by the obedience of one shall many be made righteous.

20 Moreover the law entered, that the offence might abound. But where sin abounded, grace did much more abound:

21 That as sin hath reigned unto death, even so might grace reign through righteousness unto eternal life by Jesus Christ our Lord.
KJV

How Can We?
Rom 6:1-6
6:1 What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin, that grace may abound?

2 God forbid. How shall we, that are dead to sin, live any longer therein?

3 Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into his death?

4 Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life.

5 For if we have been planted together in the likeness of his death, we shall be also in the likeness of his resurrection:

6 Knowing this, that our old man is crucified with him, that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin.
KJV

GOD RULES OVER ALL, BUT SOME ARE REBEL RULERS

2008-07-25T04:51:00.000-07:00

THE GOVERNMENT OF THE EARTH

The peoples of earth long for good governants. Over the centuries we have placed out trust in men who make great promises; stating (when they get elected to power) how they will improve the lives of their constituences, and almost always - they prove to be untrue. It is inated in mankind to want "power" [well God made us to have dominion]; and someone says, "power corrupts and supreme power corrupts supremely."

In keeping with the line of Biblical teaching as it pertains to regality, (rulership) Lucifer [who later became Satan] – positioned by God as the earth’s ruler in the beginning (Ezek. 28:14) – has ruled the earth, uninterrupted, since that time even until now. And Satan’s rule has always been under God, though a rebel ruler under God following the fall.

Throughout Man’s Day, Satan has carried out this rule through nations. And he accomplishes this rule through a complete generation of powers and authorities within his kingdom – i.e., through angelic rulers (fallen angels), to whom power and authority has been delegated:

Eph 6:12
12 For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. NIV

Particular angels have been placed over particular nations. Then, under each of these angelic princes placed over nations, there are numerous other angels assigned to occupy lesser positions of power and authority.

This is the manner in which the government under Satan, in the heavens, is revealed to presently exist; and this established government, with respect to individual nations, angelic princes, and lesser angelic rulers assigned under these princes, apparently corresponds to a complete gradation of powers and authorities within the various nations on earth (Dan. 10:13-20).

However, there is one exception to Satan’s rule in this respect. In Satan’s kingdom, there is no angelic prince and there are no lesser angelic rulers holding position over Israel. Israel is a separate and distinct nation, God’s first born son, and is not to be “reckoned among” the nations.

The angelic prince which exercises this type of power and authority over Israel during Man’s Day is revealed to be Michael, an angel not associated with Satan’s fall and his kingdom. And any angelic rulers under Michael would also, of necessity, be outside of Satan’s domain and rule:

Dan 10:21
21 But I will shew thee that which is noted in the scripture of truth: and there is none that holdeth with me in these things, but Michael your prince.

KJV

Note Rev. 12:1ff in this respect. Israel and the nations are in view on the one hand (vs. 1-6), and Michael and his angels, along with Satan and his angels, are in view on the other (vs. 7-9), with everything being regal in nature.

(In the preceding gradation of powers and authorities, the angelic rulers – whether those consisting of Satan and his angels, or of Michael and his angels – exercise power and authority from a heavenly sphere. All hold their positions under God [though Satan and his angels are rebel rulers], and all rule through those whom God has placed in position of power and authority on the earth.

“The heavens do rule” in this respect. This rule begins with God [in the heavens] and progresses through angels [also in the heavens] to men [on the earth]. “there is no power but of God,” and “the powers that be [whether in the heavens, or on the earth] are ordained of God” [cf. Dan. 4:17-26; Rom. 13:1, 2].

During the present day and time, angels – both within and without Satan’s kingdom – continue to hold previously appointed regal positions [appointed by God] in the preceding respect. Note that even those represented by the twenty-four elders in Rev. 4, 5 remain crowned and retain a regal connection with God’s throne until a particular, revealed time yet future. And that future time is associated with events immediately following the present dispensation, events occurring near the conclusion of Man’s Day anticipating Christ and His co-heirs taking the kingdom.

The things reiterated in the preceding three paragraphs form fundamental, foundational Biblical teachings surrounding the government of the earth – past, present, and future. And possessing a proper understanding of the government of the earth forms a fundamental, foundational basis for properly understanding numerous related things surrounding Israel and the nation seen occurring in the world today.)

Knowing the things surrounding how the present kingdom on this earth is established – which includes not only the nations but Israel as well – is the key to seeing and understanding the central and primary reason for Satan’s continuous hatred of the Jewish people down through the years. And this is something which has resulted in or has had a direct bearing upon all of the anti-Semitism over centuries of time, as well as the present unrest in the Middle East.

GOD CHOSE ISRAEL

2008-07-22T05:58:00.000-07:00

ISRAEL

Ex 4:22-23

22 And thou shalt say unto Pharaoh, Thus saith the LORD, Israel is my son, even my firstborn:

23 And I say unto thee, Let my son go, that he may serve me: and if thou refuse to let him go, behold, I will slay thy son, even thy firstborn.
KJV

Isa 43:1
43:1 But now thus saith the LORD that created thee, O Jacob, and he that formed thee, O Israel, Fear not: for I have redeemed thee, I have called thee by thy name; thou art mine.
KJV

Rom 9:4

4 Who are Israelites; to whom pertaineth the adoption, and the glory, and the covenants, and the giving of the law, and the service of God, and the promises;
KJV

The nation Israel is God’s “son” because of creation. God performed a special creative act in the person of Jacob (Isa. 43:1); and, as a result, not only Jacob, but his descendants through his twelve sons – forming the nation Israel – are viewed in Scripture as God’s “son.”

Then, the nation of Israel is more than just God’s “son.” This nation, because of a subsequent adoption, is God’s firstborn son. That is, God, at a time following His creative activity surrounding Jacob and a nation emanating from his loins, adopted this nation, placing the nation of Israel in the position of His firstborn son (Exo. 4:22, 23).

Note Isa. 43:5-7 relative to both creation and sonship:

Isa 43:5-7

5 Fear not: for I am with thee: I will bring thy seed from the east, and gather thee from the west;

6 I will say to the north, Give up; and to the south, Keep not back: bring my sons from far, and my daughters from the ends of the earth;

7 Even every one that is called by my name: for I have created him for my glory, I have formed him; yea, I have made him.
KJV

The reference is to a future regathering of the Israelites from a worldwide dispersion. The Israelites, in connection with creation mentioned in verse one and seven, are referred to as God’s “sons,” with “daughters” used contextually within this same thought – i.e., within the thought of creation resulting in “sonship.”

(With respect to both males and females viewed in relation to sonship, the nation as a whole is almost always spoken of in the sense of a son, or in the sense of sons when referring to individuals comprising the nation [which would include both males and females].

For example, expressions used in verses such as Exo. 1:1, 7, 9 or Acts 5:21; 7:23, 27 to describe all those comprising the nation [both males and females] is “the sons of Israel” [NASB (The Hebrew word translated “sons” in Acts 5:21; 7:23, 27 and other similar NT passages is huios. These respectively are the Hebrew and Greek words for “son,” and both should be so understood and translated)].

Thus, the use of “daughters” in connection with “sons” in a verse such as Isa. 43:6 must be understood in the preceding respect. It must be understood in a similar respect to the way God’s wife [Israel] is also viewed – as God’s son.

The way in which the government in God’s kingdom was originally established, only sons could rule. Then, in relation to man and the earth, two things are seen in this respect: only firstborn sons can rule; and there has to be a husband-wife relationship within this rule. With the wife, of necessity, also being a firstborn son.)

Isa. 43:7 clearly states that every descendant of Jacob is himself a special creation, as Jacob is seen as a special creation back in verse one). Whether this is understood as a passing on of he sonship status through birth, or as God stepping in at the time of birth and performing an individual, creative act, is immaterial. The fact remains that, because of creation, Jacob is seen as a son of God; and, through procreation, all of his descendants are seen in Scripture individually as sons of God, with the nation as a whole seen collectively as God’s son (Exo. 4:22, 23).

This entire thought of creation and sonship, followed by adoption, is what separates and set apart both the Jewish people individually and the nation of Israel as a whole from all the Gentile (individually or nationally). Scripture makes a sharp distinction between Israel on the one hand and the Gentile nations on the other. The Jewish people comprise a separate and distinct nation which is not to be “reckoned among the nations” - the Gentile nations (cf. Num. 23:9; Deut. 7:6; Amos 3:1, 2).

Taken from Arlen Chitwood's book God's Firstborn Sons, pg. 11

GOD'S ELECTION Part 2

2008-07-21T04:49:00.000-07:00

THE KEY TO ELECTION

George N. H. Peters, The Theocratic Kingdom of Our Lord Jesus, the Christ, 1:402 says:
The doctrine of the kingdom in its covenanted aspect gives us the key to the doctrine of election. The language referring to election based (1) on the Divine Purpose relating to this Theocratic Kingdom; (2) on the Plan embraced in that Purpose, of gathering out of a people, - whose character, etc., is predetermined – to whom it can be entrusted; (3) on the acceptance of the conditions by persons through which they come into the line of that purpose. The election then (a) is, so far as God is concerned, pre-ordained; such a people will be gathered (as even Moses predicted) for such a kingdom of kings and priests to be established and, as God changes not, it will most assuredly be carried into execution.; (b) on the part of man, he comes in the line of the predestined order, or elect, or chosen, just as soon as he accords or falls in with the determined process of engrafting through faith in Jesus Christ.

Ephesians 2:14 speaks of Christ breaking down the “middle wall of partition” between Jews and Gentiles. Note that this is between Jewish and Gentile believers in Christ and not between Jewish nation and Gentile nations. No Gentile nation has been chosen in place of the Jewish nation, for this would violate God’s oath-given covenants. Israel as a nation rejected their Messiah, but in other that God’s promise and His purpose to establish His kingdom on the earth might be fulfilled to the elect nation, He continues the election by incorporating Gentile believers. He requires a certain determined number for the accomplishment of His purpose: This is “the blindness in part is happened to Israel, until the fullness of the Gentiles be come in” (Rom. 11:25).

This plan for the Church and Israel is explained in Romans 9-11. Notice several important points:
1.The passage is dealing with the election of Israel, not the Church (9:3, 4).
2.It has to do with election to religious privileges rather than with personal salvation (9:4, 5).
3.It speaks of both national and individual election (9:4, 6-7).
4.The consequences are earthly; election is not said to be to heaven or hell.
5.This chapter reveals that corporate or national election does not save individuals. National election is to national privileges, but each individual person needs salvation, and Paul was burdened for his Jewish brethren.
6.This passage records and explains the fall and restoration of Israel (because they rejected their Messiah). They are being chastised in this age (Deut. 28:63-68; Acts 13:46; 18:6).
7.All Israel is not the true Israel – the unbelieving ones are excluded from the ministry and privilege (Rom. 9:6) as well as eternal life (9:31-32).
8.Isaac and Jacob were elected for the privilege of being the pathway of the seed from which Christ was born (9:7-13).
9.God overrules evil for His own purpose. Pharaoh is an example. Exodus says that on occasion God hardens Pharaoh’s heart, and that at other times He hardened His own heart. God hardened his heart by letting him exercise his own will, which became a little harder each time he resisted God. The word fitted in Romans 9:22 can be translated in the middle voice to read, “What if God, willing to show His wrath, and to make His power known, endured with much longsuffering the vessels of wrath [who have] fitted [themselves] to destruction.”
10.Whether for Jews or Gentiles, righteousness always comes by faith (9:30-32).

UNITED WITH CHRIST

God does not arbitrarily give away what He promised by an oath to give to Israel. By faith we are identified with Christ in His death, burial, and resurrection (Rom. 6:3-4). “For if we have been planted together in the likeness of his death, we shall be also in the likeness of his resurrection” (6:5). The words planted together, from a biological work in the Greek, are used to mean grafted into or joined with Christ. Because of our position in Christ, who is God’s Elect (Isa. 42:1), corporately we are also called elect (1 Pet. 1:2; Rom. 8:33; 2 Tim. 2:10; Tit. 1:1; Col. 3:12). And because of this union with the living Christ, we are said to be chosen “in him” (Eph. 1:4). This is positional truth. We are not said to be chosen and “put into him.” Because of our position “in him” we receive these blessings. Both individual Jews and Gentiles are being added to His body, the Church. We have unique privileges as “the body of Christ” and in Christ as “the seed of Abraham” (Gal. 3:6-9, 14, 16, 18).

The word predestination in its various forms only appears four times in the Bible (Rom. 8:29, 30; Eph. 1:5, 11). It is always used in connection with the saved and tells about the special character of blessing that is theirs: “to adoption,” “to the praise of his glory,” or “conformed to the image of his Son.”

Hubert Lockyer in his book: All the Doctrines of the Bible, Pg. 153 says:

What must be born in mind is the fact that predestination is not God’s predetermining from past ages who should and who should not be saved. Scripture does not teach this view. What it does teach is that this doctrine of predestination concerns the future of believers. Predestination is the divine determining the glorious consummation of t all who through faith, and surrender become the Lord’s. He has determined before had that each child of His will reach adoption, or “son-placing” at his resurrection when Christ returns. It has been determined before hand that all who are truly Christ’s shall be conformed to His image (Rom. 8:29; Eph. 1:5).

From The Kingdom Of God Visualized, Pg. 123

DOCTRINE OF ELECTION

2008-07-20T05:56:00.000-07:00

GOD’S ELECT

If there is ever a question as to which Bible doctrine cause the most confusion and division in Christendom, surely it would be the Doctrine of Election. History, heresy, misconceptions and the misuse of terms have all contributed to the confusion. It is hard to believe that if a person was isolated on an island and studied by himself that he would come up with any of the usual elaborate systems. The following view is not presented for polemical purposes, but as an effort to make a contribution towards understanding this difficult doctrine and especially its relation to position and service in the kingdom.

Let us first examine the meaning of the word “election” and then trace the biblical usage as it develops, to compare the usage in the Old and New Testaments, as well as some historical interpretations that have influenced our thinking.

The word “election” and its cognates, elect, chose and chosen, all mean practically the same thing and often times are translations of the same word. Choosing, whether referring to God or man, is directly related to an act of the will. No one would question the fact that God is not limited in His choices by anything outside of Himself; in contrast, man sometimes limited by knowledge, power, ability, or some other restrictions. Creation is a good example of the many choices that God made. There are all kinds of created beings: men, angels, animals, fish etc. God could have chosen to create all creatures the same, but He didn’t.

OLD TESTAMENT USES

The Old Testament abounds in examples of God election or selecting for outward privileges. This electing can be divided into two classes: individual and corporate.

INDIVIDUAL ELECTION

One of the most important recorded choices is God’s selection of Abraham as the father of a new nation. Moses was chosen as the leader to deliver Israel (Exo. 3:10; Ps. 106:23); Aaron was chosen as God’s high priest (Ps. 105:26); and David was chosen as king (1 Sam. 16:12; 20:30). Christ is also prophetically referred to as God’s elect in Isaiah 42:1. All of these refer to ministry or outward privileges and not to salvation.

CORPORATE ELECTION

The nation of Israel is an example of corporate election:
Isa 45:4

4 For Jacob my servant's sake, and Israel mine elect, I have even called thee by thy name: I have surnamed thee, though thou hast not known me.
KJV

It was to this elect nation that the kingdom was offered, and the people were to be a kingdom of priests (Exo. 19:5, 6). God also choose Judah as the ruling tribe of Israel (1 Chron. 28:4).

The Old Testament Jew’s general understanding of election is: God choosing them to establish a kingdom that would be an everlasting kingdom (eternity).
1.They understood that they had been chosen (elected) as a special people, a
nation of priests.
2. The Word of God has been committed to them (Rom. 3:2).
3. The Messiah (represented by the star), was to be born of the Jews.
4. When the Messiah came, the dead would be raised and the kingdom
established.

NEW TESTAMENT USES OF ELECTION

Some Jews were trusting that their family relationship or membership in an elect nation would automatically give them a place in the kingdom without repentance. But John the Baptist warned them:
Matt 3:9

9 And think not to say within yourselves, We have Abraham to our father: for I say unto you, that God is able of these stones to raise up children unto Abraham.
KJV

This verse clearly illustrates “election” in the New Testament, following the same pattern used in the Old Testament. There are both individual and corporate elections, and being a member of a chosen (elect) nation does not guarantee individual election. Examples of individual election to ministry include apostles (Luke 6:13-16), the seventy witnesses (Luke 10:1), and missionaries (Acts 13:1, 2). Some, such as the apostles, had eternal significance in the kingdom (Matt. 19:28). An example of a corporate use is given in 1 Thess. 1:4, where the Church is called “elect”. At this point it must be noted that election is used in ways other than to eternal life.

Because of the rejection and crucifixion of their Saviour-King, elect Israel was temporarily set aside as a nation while God instituted a new program of election. He now is selecting from Jews and Gentiles a new assembly that He calls the Church. When this is completed, He will come to the earth a second time, raise the righteous dead, and establish His kingdom. The elect of both Old and New Testaments will have an important place in this great kingdom.

KEEP THE FAITH TO ENSURE THE CROWN

2008-07-18T05:06:00.000-07:00

“FAITH” AS SEEN IN THE SCRIPTURES

Christians at the beginning of the present dispensation, before they were ever called “Christians” (Acts 11:26), were known simply as those “of this way” (c.f. Acts 9:2; 19:9, 23; 22:4; 24:14, 22). In each instance the word “way” is preceded by the definite article, and the expression could be better translated “the way.”

Acts 11:26

26 And when he had found him, he brought him unto Antioch. And it came to pass, that a whole year they assembled themselves with the church, and taught much people. And the disciples were called Christians first in Antioch.
KJV

Acts 9:2

2 And desired of him letters to Damascus to the synagogues, that if he found any of this way, whether they were men or women, he might bring them bound unto Jerusalem.
KJV
Acts 19:9, 23

9 But when divers were hardened, and believed not, but spake evil of that way before the multitude, he departed from them, and separated the disciples, disputing daily in the school of one Tyrannus.

23 And the same time there arose no small stir about that way.
KJV

Those believing the message proclaimed on the day of Pentecost and following were singled out through the use of this expression. They were believing Jews who followed a way different from that being followed by the remainder of the nation (which was looked upon by Israel’s religious leaders as a heretical way [Acts 24:14]), and the expression was later used within Gentile circles as well, though by Jews (Acts 19:9).

Acts 24:14

14 But this I confess unto thee, that after the way which they call heresy, so worship I the God of my fathers, believing all things which are written in the law and in the prophets:
KJV

The origin of this expression is rooted in believing the message being proclaimed to Israel relative to salvation in the first seven chapters of Acts, and this salvation has to do with deliverance in the kingdom, not with the eternal destiny (ref. Chapters 1-5, “Continuing from the Gospels,” “Restoration in the Kingdom,” “Restoration of all Things,” “Acceptance by Many,” and “Rejection by the Nation”).

Those “of the way” had believed the message being proclaimed, and they were seeking, through every means possible, to bring about belief (in the same message) on the part of an entire unbelieving nation, the nation of Israel.

Prior to his conversion, Paul was going about the country seeking to destroy that which he and numerous Jews viewed as a new, heretical Jewish sect by doing away with those “of the way”; and, on his journey from Jerusalem to Damascus, he had his eyes opened to the truth rejected by Israel. As a result, he became a follower “of the way” and subsequently exhibited the same urgency and zeal towards proclaiming “the way” as he previously exhibited towards trying to destroy “the way.”

Years later, writing to the Christians in Galatia, Paul described the message which he had sought to destroy by using the expression, “the way” (Gal. 1:23).

Gal 1:23

23 But they had heard only, That he which persecuted us in times past now preacheth the faith which once he destroyed.
KJV

And not only did Paul use the expression writing to the Churches in Galatia (to refer to the message surrounding the King and the proffered Kingdom, the message described simply as “the way”), but he used it numerous times throughout his ministry, referring to the same message (e.g. Acts 14:22; Rom. 1:5, 8; Eph. 1:15; Phil. 1:27; Col. 1:23; 1 Tim. 6:12, 21; 11 Tim. 3:8; 4:7 [“faith,” in each reference, is articular in the Greek text]). Please take note of the following passages and read them within this context.

Acts 14:22

22 Confirming the souls of the disciples, and exhorting them to continue in the faith, and that we must through much tribulation enter into the kingdom of God.
KJV

Rom 1:5, 8

5 By whom we have received grace and apostleship, for obedience to the faith among all nations, for his name:

8 First, I thank my God through Jesus Christ for you all, that your faith is spoken of throughout the whole world.
KJV

Eph 1:15

15 Wherefore I also, after I heard of your faith in the Lord Jesus, and love unto all the saints,
KJV

Phil 1:27

27 Only let your conversation be as it becometh the gospel of Christ: that whether I come and see you, or else be absent, I may hear of your affairs, that ye stand fast in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel;
KJV

Col 1:23

23 If ye continue in the faith grounded and settled, and be not moved away from the hope of the gospel, which ye have heard, and which was preached to every creature which is under heaven; whereof I Paul am made a minister;
KJV

1 Tim 6:12, 21

12 Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, whereunto thou art also called, and hast professed a good profession before many witnesses.

21 Which some professing have erred concerning the faith. Grace be with thee. Amen.
KJV

2 Tim 3:8

8 Now as Jannes and Jambres withstood Moses, so do these also resist the truth: men of corrupt minds, reprobate concerning the faith.
KJV

2 Tim 4:7

7 I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith:
KJV

Luke (writing Acts) used it the same way relative to events prior to Paul’s conversion (Acts 6:7).

Acts 6:7

7 And the word of God increased; and the number of the disciples multiplied in Jerusalem greatly; and a great company of the priests were obedient to the faith.
KJV

It was used the same way by those writing the other epistles (e.g. Heb. 12:2; James 2:14; 1 Pet. 5:9; 1 John 5:4 [also Rev. 2:13]; Jude 3).

Heb 12:2

2 Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.
KJV

James 2:14

14 What doth it profit, my brethren, though a man say he hath faith, and have not works? can faith save him?
KJV

1 Peter 5:9

9 Whom resist stedfast in the faith, knowing that the same afflictions are accomplished in your brethren that are in the world.
KJV

1 John 5:4

4 For whatsoever is born of God overcometh the world: and this is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith.
KJV

Rev 2:13

13 I know thy works, and where thou dwellest, even where Satan's seat is: and thou holdest fast my name, and hast not denied my faith, even in those days wherein Antipas was my faithful martyr, who was slain among you, where Satan dwelleth.

Jude 3

3 Beloved, when I gave all diligence to write unto you of the common salvation, it was needful for me to write unto you, and exhort you that ye should earnestly contend for the faith which was once delivered unto the saints.
KJV

Then going back behind both the epistles and the Book of Acts, it was used the same way by Christ during His earthly ministry (Luke 18:8 [“faith,” in each preceding reference, is articular in the Greek text]).

Luke 18:8

8 I tell you that he will avenge them speedily. Nevertheless when the Son of man cometh, shall he find faith on the earth?
KJV

In this respect, it can clearly be shown that “the faith” was a commonly used expression, seen throughout the New Testament, to refer to teachings surrounding the proffered kingdom. Those “of the way” in Acts were those who held to “the faith.” Though Paul used the expression “the faith,” extensively throughout his epistles after this fashion, he was far from alone in so doing. Other writers of the Scriptures are also seen using this expression in the same manner Paul used it.

Thus, the expression, “the faith,” refers, not to belief in general (i.e. as often expressed, “all the great Biblical doctrines of the faith [referring to the Virgin Birth, Blood Atonement, etc.],” but belief in particular. This is what the article shows, used to point out something particular, something which would be evident by the context. To say that verses such as 1 Tim. 6:12; 11 Tim. 4:7; or Jude 3 (among many others) refer to holding to that which is looked upon as “all the great Biblical doctrines of the faith” is not only textually wrong but theologically destructive. Let’s take another look at these verses:

1 Tim 6:12

12 Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, whereunto thou art also called, and hast professed a good profession before many witnesses.
KJV

2 Tim 4:7

7 I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith:
KJV

Jude 3

3 Beloved, when I gave all diligence to write unto you of the common salvation, it was needful for me to write unto you, and exhort you that ye should earnestly contend for the faith which was once delivered unto the saints.
KJV

Is there a possibility then, that many who expects to hear on that day of Judgment, “….I have finished my course and have kept the faith”-did not really keep it and as a result will not hear such words?

Scripture is to be interpreted in light of Scripture, “comparing spiritual things with spiritual” (1 Cor. 2:13); and when this is done, going back to the Book of Acts and carrying the matter through into the epistles, it can be clearly demonstrated exactly what the expression “the faith,” refers to.

1 Cor 2:13

13 Which things also we speak, not in the words which man's wisdom teacheth, but which the Holy Ghost teacheth; comparing spiritual things with spiritual.
KJV

To misinterpret and teach contrary to that which Scripture clearly reveals about “the faith” not only obscures that which is taught in one realm but also invariably results in false teachings in anther realm.

Rom 10:17-21

17 So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.

18 But I say, Have they not heard? Yes verily, their sound went into all the earth, and their words unto the ends of the world.

19 But I say, Did not Israel know? First Moses saith, I will provoke you to jealousy by them that are no people, and by a foolish nation I will anger you.

20 But Esaias is very bold, and saith, I was found of them that sought me not; I was made manifest unto them that asked not after me.

21 But to Israel he saith, All day long I have stretched forth my hands unto a disobedient and gainsaying people.
KJV

Hebrews 11 verse one is often used as the definition for "faith", actually it's not a definition in the proper sense of the word. Now that we understand that "faith" is not just a strong "belief" but a "particular belief"; we will see Hebrew 11:1 as a directive or counsel.

Heb 11:1

11:1 Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.

KJV

"Belief" is not a thing hoped for, the evidence of things not seen - Instead it is: "A confident assureance...." that the promise that God has given will come true. Read the remainder of Hebrews chapter eleven and see if the light isn't much brighter.

Taken mostly form Arlen Chitwood's works with his permision:

FOR THE HUSBAND IS THE HEAD OF THE WIFE

2008-07-16T05:03:00.000-07:00

HUSBAND LOVE YOUR WIFE

One of the ancient rabbis of Jewish history stated, “The secret of Adam is the secret of Messiah.” To come to an understanding of the entire panorama of Biblical truths, one must view them after the same fashion in which God gave these truths. And to do this, one MUST go back to the very foundation upon which these truths rest – the Book of Genesis – and ascertain the same truths relative to Adam.

Scripture MUST be interpreted in light of Scripture, and Scripture MUST be interpreted after the manner in which it was written (types, shadows, word pictures, etc.). All other methods of Scriptural interpretation can only lead to a multiplicity of pseudo thoughts and opinions originating from and held by man today. And because we are “convinced” that we are correct, we are passionate about what we teach; let us put all our “passion” and “convictions” aside and ensure that what we believe aligns with the Word of God. Then we can reaffirm our beliefs if they are in accord with the Word, or abandon, if they don’t. In Acts we are told that the Bereans were more noble than the Thessalonians because the searched the Scriptures for themselves:
Acts 17:11

11 These were more noble than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so.
KJV

The Church is to one day reign with the last Adam in the same position that Eve was to reign with the first Adam. But during the time when the effects of the fall are present, prior to this reign, the Church is to occupy the same position to Christ that Eve occupied relative to Adam following the fall. Eve, following the fall, was no longer in the position of co-regent with Adam but was placed in subjection to Adam:
Gen 3:16

16 Unto the woman he said, I will greatly multiply thy sorrow and thy conception; in sorrow thou shalt bring forth children; and thy desire shall be to thy husband, and he shall rule over thee.
KJV

Be reminded of the purpose for which God made man:

Gen 1:26-28

26 And God said, Let us make man in our image, after our likeness: and let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over the cattle, and over all the earth, and over every creeping thing that creepeth upon the earth.

27 So God created man in his own image, in the image of God created he him; male and female created he them.

28 And God blessed them, and God said unto them, Be fruitful, and multiply, and replenish the earth, and subdue it: and have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over every living thing that moveth upon the earth.
KJV

In like manner, the Church today is not in a position of co-regent with Christ but, rather, is subject to Christ:
Eph 5:24

24 Therefore as the church is subject unto Christ, so let the wives be to their own husbands in every thing.
KJV

This statement of “subjection” of a wife to her husband has sparked many debates, ignited many disruptions, divert many well intended relationships that otherwise might have ended in marriage, and even dissolve many marriages; that if the proper understanding was ascertained might well be averted.

Without further ado, the operative word that settles this story is the word LOVE. The Scripture says, “Husbands, LOVE your wives” and it is even strengthened by the following phrase, “as Christ LOVE the Church.” When a couple gets married, the two becomes ONE. Eve could not reign while subject to Adam; nor can the Church reign while subject to Christ. The completion of the redemption of Christians must occur first (body and soul). Then, and only then, can they be placed in a position which Eve occupied in relation to the first Adam prior to the fall. Then, and only then, can they reign as “joint-heirs” with Christ in the kingdom (cf. Rom. 8:16-23; 1 Pet. 1:9-11; 4:12, 13).

The Book of Ephesians teaches that the Church is the body of Christ, and in chapter 5 Paul’s argument seems to be that because the Church is His body, she is “one” with Christ (vs. 25-33). This is what is pre-figured in the relationship shown between Adam and Eve:

Gen 2:23-24

23 And Adam said, This is now bone of my bones, and flesh of my flesh: she shall be called Woman, because she was taken out of Man.

24 Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh.
KJV

It is unnatural for one to abuse his own flesh in any form or fashion. And it is understood that if one is normal he will “love” his own body. Just imagine that it was possible for you to be at one point and your hands are at another, how concerned we would be as to how our hands are doing in our absence. We would not want to do anything that would affect the shoulders to which the hands are connect, that on the return of the hands they would be put back together without any difficulty.

According to Eph. 5:25-27, Christ “gave Himself” for the Church [past v. 25], “that He might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by the Word [present v. 26], “that He might present it to Himself a glorious Church, not having spot, nor wrinkle, or any such thing” [future v. 27].

If one will make the comparison according to proper exegesis of the text; between the husband being “the head” of the wife and the wife “being in subjection” to her husband; it will be evident that there is no place for male dominance and female subjugation.
Eph 5:22-23

22 Wives, submit yourselves unto your own husbands, as unto the Lord.

23 For the husband is the head of the wife, even as Christ is the head of the church: and he is the saviour of the body.
KJV

The wife is asked to look beyond her husband and see the Lord, “…..as unto the Lord.” The husband is “head” of the wife “…..even as Christ is head of the Church.” The first thing that comes to mind about Christ’s relationship with His Church is that He “died” for her. And that was a literal death. The Love that Christ has for the Church never hurts the Church, Christ is the one that is hurt for her.

The word “head” kephale

NT:2776 (kef-al-ay'); from the primary kapto (in the sense of seizing); the head (as the part most readily taken hold of), literally or figuratively:
KJV - head.

Men, being “head” means you are responsible for everything and you have to not only see that things go right, but when they go wrong you are responsible. You are responsible for what your wife does, for what the pet in the house does, for the working condition of the foist in the laundry room, for rodents in the garage, for molds in the lawn; and the list goes on. As I hinted earlier, you are responsible for your wife’s happiness no matter what is the cause of her sadness. With a proper understanding of these requirements, many of us men would do better having the wife’s role to play – “the head as that part most readily taken hold of”.

The word “submit” hupotasso

NT:5293 (hoop-ot-as'-so); from NT:5259 and NT:5021; to subordinate; reflexively, to obey:

I would like to emphasize the word “reflexively” and it shows that it’s not forced. It might sound like a contradiction, but it’s not. It just shows that the wife being a part of the body, enjoys the way she is treated to the extend that she allows herself to be guided by a “head” that is in “one” accord with her.

Therefore, both being the “head” of the wife and the wife being in “subjection” to the husband is the garentee for a happy and long-lasting relationship in marriage. It is a type here on earth to show what Christ has in store for His bride. We have a responsibility to make the example that Christ intends be evident to the world that’s looking on:
Gen 2:24

24 Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh .
KJV

SAD STATE OF THE CHURCH

2008-07-14T04:09:00.000-07:00

SHADDOW OVER THE CHURCH

There are more and more believers that are coming to the conclusion that the Church age has ended, or at least very close to its end. I believe we are experiencing the times that the epistle of Jude prophesied.

Arlen Chitwood in his book entitled Jude has expressed this very well. He said, “The present dispensation has its beginning in the Book of Acts with the Acts of the Apostles; and the dispensation will end, as described in the Epistle of Jude, with the Acts of the Apostates.”

Much of what’s happening in our Churches, among Christian people that have been gradually gaining acceptance is nothing short of disgraceful. At a time when Christians should be standing for righteousness, we are making adjustments to align with the expectations of the world. We have lowered our standards so far, mainly to get the recognition of men; that the Church is hardly looked at any longer as the moral authority it once was. The Church is seen just as another organization vying for its part of the 'economic pie'. Christians are no longer respected as we once were, instead we are seen as hypocrites.

I wish I could say with a clear conscience, that the world’s observation of us is wrong. I am afraid, they are right; we have lost our way. Just like some teachers and preachers of the precious century were shown things in the Scriptures that were relevant meet the needs of that generation, things that disturbed the Ecclesiastical minds; so today we need teachers and preachers that will dig deep into the Scriptures and meet the needs of the Church in the state we now find ourselves in. We need preachers that will be fearless and vigorous in presenting, “…thus saith the Lord.”

What we are left with in our pulpits and classrooms are mostly scribes, peddling the wares of those we follow, many of whom with all good intentions, were mislead and short-changes as far as their understanding of Scriptures are concerned. We need to move away from the stale ideas and phrases we inherited and search the Scriptures for ourselves to see if what we are doing and teaching line-up with what God says in His Word. We need fresh messages from God, directly from the Word and even if it means that we will have to unload some of what we’ve held to and be persecuted by those with whom we long associated; we must please God rather than man.
Admit that what we are often called to be party with are not Scripturally-based, instead are things that the denominations indulge.

This is not going to be easy taking a stand for God and His Word. Peter and the other disciples sought to do that in the early Church and they got strong opposition, that which we will come under could be much stronger; but we can use the same principles that Peter and the other disciples used:
Acts 5:27-29

27 And when they had brought them, they set them before the council: and the high priest asked them,

28 Saying, Did not we straitly command you that ye should not teach in this name? and, behold, ye have filled Jerusalem with your doctrine, and intend to bring this man's blood upon us.

29 Then Peter and the other apostles answered and said, We ought to obey God rather than men .
KJV

SCRIPTURE OVER CALVINVINSM AND ARMENIANSM

2008-07-13T05:18:00.000-07:00

WHY I DISAGREE WITH ALL FIVE POINTS OF
CALVINISM

The term “Calvinism” is a loosely used term by some people who do not hold Calvin’s teaching on predestination and do not understand exactly what Calvin taught.

Dr. Loraine Boettner in his book, “The Reformed Doctrine of Predestination” , says, “The Calvinistic system especially emphasizes five different doctrines, these are technically know as: ‘The Five Points of Calvinism’ and they are the main pillows upon which the superstructure rest.” [Presbyterian & Reformed Publishing Co., 1932].

Dr. Boettner says: “The five points may be more easily remembered if they are associated with the word TULIP. T-Total Inability; U-Unconditional Election; L-Limited Atonement; I-Irresistible (efficacious) Grace; and P-Perseverance of the Saints.”

These are the five points of Calvinism. I have heard preachers say, “I am a one point Calvinist.” I have heard them say, “I am a two or three point Calvinist.” I want us to look at the five points of Calvinism taught by John Calvin, and see what the Bible has to say on each point.

TOTAL INABILITY

By total inability Calvin meant that a lost sinner cannot come to Jesus Christ and trust Him as Saviour, unless he is foreordained to come to Christ. By total inability he meant that no man has the ability to come to Christ, and unless God over powers him and give him that ability, he will never come to Christ.

The Bible does teach total depravity, but it’s not the same as “total inability”. Total depravity simply mean: “there is nothing good in man, he is incapable of earning; and does not even deserve salvation.” The Bible says in Jer. 17:9 “The heart is deceitful above all things and desperately wicked.”

A preacher brought a wonderful sermon on the depravity of the human heart. When he was finished his message, someone came to him and said, “I want you to know that I can’t swallow that ‘depraved heart’ that you just spoke about.” The preacher smiled and said, “You don’t have to swallow it, it’s already in you!”

While the Bible teaches the depravity of the human race, it nowhere teaches his total inability. The Bible never hints that people are lost because they have no ability to come to Christ. The language of Jesus was, “Ye will not come to me that ye might have life” (John 5:40).

Jesus looked over Jerusalem and wept and said, “O Jerusalem, Jerusalem…how often would I have gathered thy children together, even as a hen gathereth her chickens under her wings, and ye would not!” (Matt. 23:37). Here again notice, He did not say, “How often would I have gathered you and ‘you could not’. No. He said “you would not!” It was not a matter of whether or not they could, it was whether or not they would.

The last invitation of the Bible: Rev 22:17

17 And the Spirit and the bride say, Come. And let him that heareth say, Come. And let him that is athirst come. And whosoever will, let him take the water of life freely.

If it is true that no person has the ability to come to Christ, then why would Jesus make statements like that He made in: John 5:40

40 And ye will not come to me, that ye might have life.

Why didn’t He simply say, “ye cannot come to me ”?

The only thing that stands between the sinner and salvation is the sinner’s will. God made every man a free moral agent, and God never burglarizes the human will.

D. L. Moody addressed a large group of skeptics. He said, “I want to talk about the word believe and the word take.” When Mr. Moody had finished his sermon, he asked, “now who will come and take Christ as their Saviour?” One man stood and said, “I can’t.”

Mr. Moody wept and said, “don’t say I can’t.” Say, “I won’t!” And the man said, “then I won’t .” Another man said, “I will!” And another and another until scores came to trust Christ as Saviour.

Some Calvinist use John 6:44 in an effort to prove total inability.
John 6:44

44 No man can come to me, except the Father which hath sent me draw him: and I will raise him up at the last day.

But the Bible makes it plain in John 12:32 that Christ will draw all men unto Himself: John 12:32

32 And I, if I be lifted up from the earth, will draw all men unto me.

All men are drawn to Christ, but not all men will trust Christ as Saviour. Every man will make his own decision to trust Christ or to reject Him. The Bible makes it clear that all men have light: John 1:10

9 That was the true Light, which lighteth every man that cometh into the world.

Romans 1:19, 20 indicates that man was created for this specific purpose. Rom 1:19-20

19 Because that which may be known of God is manifest in them; for God hath shewed it unto them.

20 For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse:

Romans 2:11-16 indicates that sinners are called through their consciences, even when they have not heard the Word of God. Rom 2:11-16

11 For there is no respect of persons with God.

12 For as many as have sinned without law shall also perish without law: and as many as have sinned in the law shall be judged by the law;

13(For not the hearers of the law are just before God, but the doers of the law shall be justified.

14 For when the Gentiles, which have not the law, do by nature the things contained in the law, these, having not the law, are a law unto themselves:

15 Which shew the work of the law written in their hearts, their conscience also bearing witness, and their thoughts the mean while accusing or else excusing one another;)

16 In the day when God shall judge the secrets of men by Jesus Christ according to my gospel.

In the final analysis, man goes to Hell, not because of their inability to come to Christ; but because they will not come to Christ. John 5:40

40 And ye will not come to me , that ye might have life.

The teaching that man, woman, and children are totally unable to come to Christ and trust Him as Saviour is not a Biblical doctrine, the language itself is not scriptural.

UNCONDITIONAL ELECTION

By unconditional election, Calvin meant that some are elected to Heaven, while others are elected to Hell, and that this election is unconditional. It is wholly on God’s part and without condition. By unconditional election Calvin meant that God has already decided who will be saved and who will be lost, and the individual has absolutely nothing to do with it. He can only hope that God has elected him to Heaven and not to Hell.

This teaching so obviously disagrees with the oft-repeated invitation in the Bible to sinners to come to Christ and be saved that some readers will think that I have overstated the doctrine. So I will quote from John Calvin in his institutes, Book 111, chapter 23:

…..Not all men are created with similar destiny but eternal life is foreordained for some, and eternal damnation for others. Everyman, therefore, being created for one or the other of these ends, we say, he is predestined either to life or to death.

Calvin teaches that it is God’s own choice that some people are to be damned forever, and He never intended to save them. He foreordained them to go to Hell, and when He offers salvation in the Bible, He does not offer it to those that are foreordained to go to Hell. It is offered only to those that are foreordained to be saved.

This teaching insists that we need not try to win men to Christ because men cannot be saved unless God has planned for them to be saved. Therefore, if God’s plan for them is that they be eternally lost, there is no way that they will be saved.

There is the Bible doctrine of God’s foreknowledge, predestination, and election. Most knowledgeable Christians agree that God has His controlling hands in the affairs of man. They agree that according to the Bible, He selects individuals like Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, and David as instruments to do certain things He has planned. Most Christians agree that God may choose a nation – particularly that He did choose Israel, through which He gave the law, the prophets, and eventually through whom the Saviour Himself would come – and there is a Biblical doctrine that God foreknows everything (Deut. 7:6-11).

I have often said, “did it ever occur to you that nothing ever occurs to God?” God in His foreknowledge knows all who will trust Christ and He has predestined to see that they are justified and glorified. He will keep all those who trust Him and see to their glorification. But the doctrine that God elected some to Hell, they were born to be damned by God’s own choice, is a radical heresy, not taught anywhere in the Scriptures.

I have a booklet entitled, TULIP written by Vic Lockman. In this booklet Mr. Lockman attempts to prove the five points of Calvinism. Under the point, Unconditional Election, he quotes Eph. 1:4, but he only quote the first part of the verse. “He hath chosen us in Him before the foundation of the world.” However that is not the end of the verse. Mr. Lockman like most other Calvinists; stopped in the middle of the verse. The entire verse reads: “According as He hath chosen us in Him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before Him in love.” The verse says nothing about being chosen for Heaven or Hell. It says that we are chosen that we should be holy and without blame before Him in love. The verse is actually addressing believers.

Under the same point, Unconditional Election, Mr. Lockman quote John 15:16; “You have not chosen me, but I have chosen you and ordained you, that ye should go and bring forth fruit, and that your fruit should remain: that whatsoever ye shall ask of the Father in my name, He may give it to you.”

The verse says nothing about being chosen for Heaven or Hell. But it says we are to go out and bring forth fruit (believers again). Fruit bearing has to do with the doctrine of the kingdom, and how one seeks after the salvation of his soul. Prov 11:30

30 The fruit of the righteous is a tree of life; and he that winneth souls is wise.

Nowhere does the Bible teach that God wills for some to go to Hell and others to Heaven. Instead, the Bible teaches that God would have all men to be saved: 2 Peter 3:9

9 The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.

1 Tim 2:4

4 Who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth.

Those who teach that God would only have some to be saved, while He would have others to be lost, are misrepresenting God and His Word. Does God really predestinate some people to be saved and predestinate others to be damned so that they have no free choice? Absolutely not! Nobody is predestined to be saved, except as he chooses of his own free will to come to Christ and trust Him for salvation. And nobody is predestined to Hell, except as he chooses on his own free will to reject Christ and refuses to trust Him as Saviour: John 3:36

36 He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life: and he that believeth not the Son shall not see life; but the wrath of God abideth on him.

Nothing could be plainer. The man who goes to Heaven, goes because he comes to Jesus Christ and trust His as his Saviour. The man that goes to Hell does so because he refuses to come to Jesus Christ and trust Him.

LIMITED ATONEMENT

By limited atonement, Calvin meant that Christ died only for the elect, for those He planned and ordained to go to Heaven: He did not die for those He planned and ordained to go to Hell. Again I say, such language is not in the Bible, and the doctrine wholly contradicts many, many, plain Scriptures.

For instance, the Bible says in 1 John 2:2

2 And he is the propitiation for our sins: and not for ours only, but also for the sins of the whole world.

The teaching of Calvinism on limited atonement contradicts the expressed statement of Scripture. 1 Tim. 2:5, 6 says, “The man Christ Jesus who gave Himself a ransom for all…..”

The Bible teaches that Jesus is the Saviour of the world. John 4:42

42 And said unto the woman, Now we believe, not because of thy saying: for we have heard him ourselves, and know that this is indeed the Christ, the Saviour of the world.

1 John 4:14

14 And we have seen and do testify that the Father sent the Son to be the Saviour of the world.

The Bible makes it plain that Jesus came to save the world: John 3:17

17 For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved.

No man will ever look at Jesus Christ and say, you didn’t want to be my Saviour. No! No! Jesus wants to be the Saviour of all men. As a matter of fact; Timothy says:

1 Tim 4:10

10 For therefore we both labour and suffer reproach, because we trust in the living God, who is the Saviour of all men, specially of those that believe.

The Bible teaches that Christ bore the sins of all people. Isa 53:6

6 All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned every one to his own way; and the LORD hath laid on him the iniquity of us all.

There are two “alls” in the verse. The first “all” deals with the universal fact of sin. “All we like sheep have gone astray…” And the second “all” deals with the universal atonement – “….and the Lord has laid the iniquity of us all.” The “all” in the first part of Isaiah 53:6, covers the same crowd that the “all” in the last part covers.

Not only did He bear the sins of us all, but the Bible plainly teaches that He died for the whole world. 1 John 2:2

2 And he is the propitiation for our sins: and not for ours only, but also for the sins of the whole world.

If that isn’t plain enough, the Bible says, His death was for every man.
Heb 2:9

9 But we see Jesus, who was made a little lower than the angels for the suffering of death, crowned with glory and honour; that he by the grace of God should taste death for every man.

Nothing could be plainer than the fact that Jesus Christ died for every man. 1 Tim 2:5-6

5 For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus;

6 Who gave himself a ransom for all, to be testified in due time.

Rom 8:32

32 He that spared not his own Son, but delivered him up for us all, how shall he not with him also freely give us all things?

Look at the statements – statement after statement; “that He by the grace of God should taste death for every man”; “who gave Himself a ransom for all”; “delivered Him up for all.”

John 3:16 has often been called “the heart of the Bible.” It has been called “the Bible in miniature.” “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth on Him, should not perish but have everlasting life.” Jesus died for the whole world. He suffered Hell for every man that ever lived and who will ever live. No man will ever look out of Hell and say, “I wanted to be saved, but Jesus didn’t die for me.”

Some argue that if Jesus died for the whole world, the whole world would be saved. No! The death of Jesus Christ on the cross was sufficient for all, but it was efficient only for those who believe. The death of Jesus Christ on the cross made it possible for every man every where to be saved. But only those who believe that He died to pay their sin debt and who trusted Him completely for salvation will be saved.

Again I quote John 3:36

36 He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life: and he that believeth not the Son shall not see life; but the wrath of God abideth on him.

Everybody is potentially saved, but everybody is not actually saved until he recognizes that he is a sinner, believe that Christ died on the cross to pay his sin debt, and trust Him completely for salvation.

The atonement is not limited; it is as universal as sin. Rom 5:20

20 Moreover the law entered, that the offence might abound. But where sin abounded, grace did much more abound:

Isa 53:6

6 All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned every one to his own way; and the LORD hath laid on him the iniquity of us all.

A famous English preacher spoke in an English town, then rushed to catch a train for London. A sinner who heard him preach felt that he must immediately settle the matter of salvation, so he followed the preacher on the train. Just as the train pulled into the station, he took hold of the preacher’s lapel and said, “I need to be saved! Tell me how!”

The preacher said, “I must catch the last train to London. Do you have a Bible?” Look at Isaiah 53:6 and it has it all.

Well he thought to himself, I can certainly go in at the first all. I have gone astray. I am a poor, lost sinner. Then he read the last part of the verse, “and the Lord had laid on Him the iniquity of us all.” He said to himself, “if I come out at the last all, I must believe that all my sins were laid on Christ, that He took my place and paid for my sins. And if I rely upon that, I will be saved. That’s what the preacher meant".

He then trusted Christ and was saved. He believed that he was a sinner, and that all his sins were laid on Christ.

IRRESISTIBLE GRACE

The forth point of Calvinism is irresistible grace. By irresistible grace, John Calvin meant that God simply forces people to be saved. God elected some people to be saved, and it is for this elect group that Jesus died. Now by irresistible, He forces those elected and those for whom Christ died to be saved.

The truth of the matter is, there is no such thing as irresistible grace. Nowhere in the Bible does the word “irresistible” appear before “grace.” That terminology is just not in the Bible. It is a philosophy of John Calvin, not a Bible doctrine. The word “irresistible” does not even sound right in front of the word “grace.”

Grace means “God unmerited favour”. Somebody said G-R-A-C-E- is God’s riches at Christ’s expense. Grace is an attitude, not a power. If Calvin had talked about the irresistible drawing power of God, it would have made more sense. Instead, he represents grace as the irresistible act of God, compelling a man to be saved, who doesn’t want to be saved, so that a man has no choice in the matter at all; except as God forcibly put an action in his heart. Calvinism teaches that man has no part in salvation, and cannot possibly cooperate with God in the matter. - In no sense of the word and at no stage of the work does salvation depend upon the will or work of man or wait for the determination of his will.

Does the Bible say anything about irresistible grace? Absolutely not! The Scripture shows that man does resist and reject God. Prov 29:1
29:1 He, that being often reproved hardeneth his neck, shall suddenly be destroyed, and that without remedy.

Notice the word “often” in this verse. Then how could it be that God only gives one opportunity to be saved? The Bible says, “He that being often reproved….” This means the man had been reproved over and over again. Not only is he reproved many times, but he was reproved often. The Bible also says, “He hardeneth his neck” and “shall suddenly be destroyed, and that without remedy". That certainly doesn’t sound like irresistible grace. The Bible teaches that a man can be reproved over and over again, and that he can harden his neck against God, and as a result will be destroyed without remedy.

Prov 1:24-26

24 Because I have called, and ye refused; I have stretched out my hand, and no man regarded;

25 But ye have set at nought all my counsel, and would none of my reproof:

26 I also will laugh at your calamity; I will mock when your fear cometh;

Here the Bible plainly says, “I have called you and you refused, I have stretched out my hand and no man regard; but ye hath set at naught all my counsel, and would none of my reproof.” That doesn’t sound like irresistible grace to me. God calls, and man refuses, is that irresistible? God stretches out His hands, and no man regards it. Is that irresistible grace? The Bible makes it plain that some men do reject Christ, and refuse His call. John 5:40

40 And ye will not come to me, that ye might have life.

This like many other verses plainly teaches that man can and do resist God and refuse to come to Him.

In Acts, chapter 7, we find Stephen preaching. He says in verse 51, “Ye stiff-necked and uncircumcised in heart and ears, ye do always resist the Holy Ghost: as your fathers did, so do ye.” To the Jewish leaders Stephen said, “Ye do always resist the Holy Ghost.”

Notice the words of Stephen in verse 51, “Ye do always resist the Holy Ghost: as your fathers did so do ye.” So it’s not only the Jewish leaders that were resisting the Holy Ghost, but their fathers did before them as well. Stephen said that all the way from Abraham, through the history of the Jewish nation, down to the time of Christ, unconverted Jews have rejected the Holy Spirit.

There is absolutely no such thing as “cant-help-it” religion. God doesn’t just force man to be saved with a so-called Irresistible Grace.

God offers salvation to all men. Titus 2:11

11 For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men,

But man must make his own choice and either receive or reject Christ.

John 1:12

12 But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name:

When Jesus wept over Jerusalem He said: Matt 23:37

37 O Jerusalem , Jerusalem, thou that killest the prophets, and stonest them which are sent unto thee, how often would I have gathered thy children together, even as a hen gathereth her chickens under her wings, and ye would not!

Here the Bible clearly indicates that God would have gathered them together, but they would not. They certainly show that they could reject and resist Christ.

“I would, but I could not” does not fit the teaching of irresistible grace. People do resist the Holy Ghost, they do refuse to come to Christ; they do harden their necks and refuse God’s call.

That means, those who are not saved could have been saved. Those who reject Christ, could have accepted Him and that God offers salvation to those who will have it; but does not force it upon anyone who doesn’t want it.

PERSEVERANCE OF THE SAINTS

The Bible teaches, and I believe in the eternal security of the believer. The man who trusts Jesus Christ as his Saviour, has everlasting life and will never perish. The spirit that is saved, is a gift from God; in other words, God did it and only He could undo it. Therefore, the believer does not depend upon his perseverance to keep this gift that is given to him by God.

I do not know a single Bible verse that says anything about the saints’ persevering, but there are several Bible verses that mention the fact that the saints have been preserved. Perseverance is one thing, but preservation is another. The saint does not persevere to maintain a saved spirit, that is the gift of God. He perseveres in realizing his soul’s salvation – the purpose for which he was created. Matt. 10:22; 24:13; Mark 13:13, are all in reference to soul’s salvation and not spirit’s salvation. The salvation of the soul relates to the realization of the purpose for which man was made; (to have dominion) to be co-heirs with Christ in the kingdom.

Jude 1
1:1 Jude, the servant of Jesus Christ, and brother of James, to them that are sanctified by God the Father, and preserved in Jesus Christ, and called:

1 Thess 5:23

23 And the very God of peace sanctify you wholly; and I pray God your whole spirit and soul and body be preserved blameless unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Recently, I opened a jar of peach preserves. I don’t know how long the peaches have been in this jar. But the jar was sealed some time ago, and the peaches were preserved. When I took the peaches out and ate them, they were as good as they were the day they were placed into the jar.

But wait a minute! The peaches had nothing to do with it, they were not fresh and good because they had persevered, but because they were preserved. The Bible makes it plain that the believer is kept, and does not or can not keep himself.

1 Peter 1:4-5

4 To an inheritance incorruptible, and undefiled, and that fadeth not away, reserved in heaven for you,

5 Who are kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation ready to be revealed in the last time.

The Bible says in, John 10:27-29

27 My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me:

28 And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand.

29 My Father, which gave them me, is greater than all; and no man is able to pluck them out of my Father's hand.

That doesn’t sound like the perseverance of the sheep or saints. Here the sheep are in the Father’s hand, and they are safe, not because they persevere; but because of whose hands they are in.

Charles Spurgeon once said, “I don’t believe in the perseverance of the saints, I believe in the perseverance of the Saviour.”

There is the belief that if one does not teach universal salvation, he must either be a Calvinist or an Arminian. In his book, The Reformed Doctrine of Predestination, Dr. Loraine Boettner says on page 47, “there are only three systems which claim to set forth the way salvation through Christ [and names them].”

(1) Universalism, that all will be saved. (2) Armininanism, which holds that Christ died equally and indiscriminately for every individual…, that saving grace is not necessarily permanent, but that those who are loved of God, ransomed by God, and born of the Holy Spirit may (let God wish and strive ever so much to the contrary) throw away all and perish eternally; and (3) Calvinism.
He continues:

Only two are held by Christians, the Calvinist position and the Arminian position.

Calvinists would like to make people believe that if one does not teach universal salvation, he must either be a Calvinist or an Arminian. Since the Arminian position does such violence to the grace of God, many prefer to call themselves Calvinists. But a person doesn’t have to take either position.

I am neither Arminian nor Calvinist. I believe in salvation by grace through faith in the finished work of Christ. I believe in the eternal security of the believer. I believe that Jesus Christ died for all men, and I believe what the Bible says, “That whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.”

But I disagree with the five points of Calvinism as John Calvin taught it.

In conclusion, let me say that Calvin and those who follow him claim to believe and follow the Bible. They claim to find at least a germ of the Calvinist doctrine in the Scriptures. But a careful student will find that again and again they go beyond the Scriptures, and that Calvinism is a philosophy developed by man and depending on fallible logic and frail, human reasoning, with the perversion of some Scriptures, the misuse of others and the total ignoring of many clear teachings of the Word. Calvin did teach many wonderful, true doctrines of Scripture, but this is not one.

It is true that God foreknows everything that will happen in the world. As a matter of fact He has permitted many with the intention of using them to teach other important lessons, (they are there as examples). Therefore, God definitely ordained and determined some things ahead of time and selected some individuals for His purposes. It is certain that people are saved by grace, and kept by the power of God. That far Calvinist may well prove their doctrine by Scripture. But beyond that Calvinism goes into the realm of human philosophy.

It is not a Biblical doctrine, but a system of human philosophy, especially appealing to the scholarly intelligent, the self-sufficient and proud minds. Brilliant, philosophical, scholarly, preachers are apt to be misled on this matter more than humble hearted, Bible believing ones.

Let us prayerfully consider the position we take and ensure that we are “rightly dividing the Word of truth.”

The passage in Romans 9,that is often used to support Calvinism; a proper exegesis of this text will show that the names Jacob and Esau were not in reference to individuals, but to the nations that they represented. [You may have a further study on the issue of Rom. 9 on request].

This was not intended to cause controversy, but to genuinely seek after truth. I do appreciate your criticism and correction, because being a believer and promoter of the doctrine of the kingdom; (the Doctrine of Accountability), I don’t afford to be wrong, because to whom much is given, much is required.

Much of this work was taken from a work done by Dr. Curtis Hutson, a well known fundamentalist preacher and Bible scholar. I have done some additions, derived from my personal experiences and belief.

SAINTS DO NOT PERSEVERE TO MAINTAIN A SAVED SPIRIT

2008-07-12T02:48:00.000-07:00

PERSEVERANCE OF THE SAINTS

The Bible teaches, and I believe in the eternal security of the believer. The man who trusts Jesus Christ as his Saviour, has everlasting life and will never perish. The spirit that is saved, is a gift from God; in other words, God did it and only He could undo it and it would go contrary to His nature to do it. Therefore, the believer does not depend upon his perseverance to keep this gift that is given to him by God.

I do not know a single Bible verse that says anything about the saints’ persevering, but there are several Bible verses that mention the fact that the saints have been preserved. Perseverance is one thing, but preservation is another. The saint does not persevere to maintain a saved spirit, that is the gift of God. He perseveres in realizing his soul’s salvation – the purpose for which he was created. Matt. 10:22; 24:13; Mark 13:13, are all in reference to soul’s salvation and not spirit’s salvation. The salvation of the soul relates to the realization of the purpose for which man was made; (to have dominion) to be co-heirs with Christ in the kingdom.

Jude 1
1:1 Jude, the servant of Jesus Christ, and brother of James, to them that are sanctified by God the Father, and preserved in Jesus Christ, and called:

1 Thess 5:23

23 And the very God of peace sanctify you wholly; and I pray God your whole spirit and soul and body be preserved blameless unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Recently, I opened a jar of peach preserves. I don’t know how long the peaches have been in this jar. But the jar was sealed some time ago, and the peaches were preserved. When I took the peaches out and ate them, they were as good as they were the day they were placed into the jar.

But wait a minute! The peaches had nothing to do with it, they were not fresh and good because they had persevered, but because they were preserved. The Bible makes it plain that the believer is kept, and does not or can not keep himself.

1 Peter 1:4-5

4 To an inheritance incorruptible, and undefiled, and that fadeth not away, reserved in heaven for you,

5 Who are kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation ready to be revealed in the last time.

The Bible says in, John 10:27-29

27 My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me:

28 And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand.

29 My Father, which gave them me, is greater than all; and no man is able to pluck them out of my Father's hand.

That doesn’t sound like the perseverance of the sheep or saints. Here the sheep are in the Father’s hand, and they are safe, not because they persevere; but because of whose hands they are in.

Charles Spurgeon once said, “I don’t believe in the perseverance of the saints, I believe in the perseverance of the Saviour.”

There is the belief that if one does not teach universal salvation, he must either be a Calvinist or an Arminian. In his book, The Reformed Doctrine of Predestination, Dr. Loraine Boettner says on page 47, “there are only three systems which claim to set forth the way salvation through Christ [and names them].”

(1) Universalism, that all will be saved. (2) Armininanism, which holds that Christ died equally and indiscriminately for every individual…, that saving grace is not necessarily permanent, but that those who are loved of God, ransomed by God, and born of the Holy Spirit may (let God wish and strive ever so much to the contrary) throw away all and perish eternally; and (3) Calvinism, Christ died for a select (elect) few and only those can be saved, the others He damned.
He continues:

Only two are held by Christians, the Calvinist position and the Arminian position.

Calvinists would like to make people believe that if one does not teach universal salvation, he must either be a Calvinist or an Arminian. Since the Arminian position does such violence to the grace of God, many prefer to call themselves Calvinists. But a person doesn’t have to take either position.

I am neither Arminian nor Calvinist. I believe in salvation by grace through faith in the finished work of Christ. I believe in the eternal security of the believer. I believe that Jesus Christ died for all men, and I believe what the Bible says, “That whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.”

But I disagree with the five points of Calvinism as John Calvin taught it.

In conclusion, let me say that Calvin and those who follow him claim to believe and follow the Bible. They claim to find at least a germ of the Calvinist doctrine in the Scriptures. But a careful student will find that again and again they go beyond the Scriptures, and that Calvinism is a philosophy developed by man and depending on fallible logic and frail, human reasoning, with the perversion of some Scriptures, the misuse of others and the total ignoring of many clear teachings of the Word. Calvin did teach many wonderful, true doctrines of Scripture, but this is not one of them.

It is true that God foreknows everything that will happen in the world. As a matter of fact He has permitted many with the intention of using them to teach other important lessons, (they are there as examples). Therefore, God definitely ordained and determined some things ahead of time and selected some individuals for His purposes (not to spirit salvation but service). It is certain that people are saved by grace, and kept by the power of God. That far Calvinist may well prove their doctrine by Scripture. But beyond that Calvinism goes into the realm of human philosophy.

It is not a Biblical doctrine, but a system of human philosophy, especially appealing to the scholarly intelligent, the self-sufficient and proud minds. Brilliant, philosophical, scholarly, preachers are apt to be misled on this matter more than humble hearted, Bible believing ones.

Let us prayerfully consider the position we take and ensure that we are “rightly dividing the Word of truth.”

The passage in Romans 9,that is often used to support Calvinism; a proper exegesis of this text will show that the names Jacob and Esau were not in reference to individuals, but to the nations that they represented. [You may have a further study on the issue of Rom. 9 on request].

This was not intended to cause controversy, but to genuinely seek after truth. I do appreciate your criticism and correction, because being a believer and promoter of the doctrine of the kingdom; (the Doctrine of Accountability), I don’t afford to be wrong, because to whom much is given, much is required.

Much of this work was taken from a work done by Dr. Curtis Hutson, a well known fundamentalist preacher and Bible scholar. I have done some additions, derived from my personal experiences and belief.

RESISTING GOD'S GRACE OR NOT?

2008-07-11T04:38:00.000-07:00

IRRESISTIBLE GRACE

The forth point of Calvinism is irresistible grace. By irresistible grace, John Calvin meant that God simply forces people to be saved. God elected some people to be saved, and it is for this elect group that Jesus died. Now by irresistible, He forces those elected and those for whom Christ died to be saved.

The truth of the matter is, there is no such thing as irresistible grace. Nowhere in the Bible does the word “irresistible” appear before “grace.” That terminology is just not in the Bible. It is a philosophy of John Calvin, not a Bible doctrine. The word “irresistible” does not even sound right in front of the word “grace.”

Grace means “God unmerited favour”. Somebody said G-R-A-C-E- is God’s riches at Christ’s expense. Grace is an attitude, not a power. If Calvin had talked about the irresistible drawing power of God, it would have made more sense. Instead, he represents grace as the irresistible act of God, compelling a man to be saved, who doesn’t want to be saved, so that a man has no choice in the matter at all; except as God forcibly put an action in his heart. Calvinism teaches that man has no part in salvation, and cannot possibly cooperate with God in the matter. - In no sense of the word and at no stage of the work does salvation depend upon the will or work of man or wait for the determination of his will.

Does the Bible say anything about irresistible grace? Absolutely not! The Scripture shows that man does resist and reject God. Prov 29:1
29:1 He, that being often reproved hardeneth his neck, shall suddenly be destroyed, and that without remedy.

Notice the word “often” in this verse. Then how could it be that God only gives one opportunity to be saved? The Bible says, “He that being often reproved….” This means the man had been reproved over and over again. Not only is he reproved many times, but he was reproved often. The Bible also says, “He hardeneth his neck” and “shall suddenly be destroyed, and that without remedy". That certainly doesn’t sound like irresistible grace. The Bible teaches that a man can be reproved over and over again, and that he can harden his neck against God, and as a result will be destroyed without remedy.

Prov 1:24-26

24 Because I have called, and ye refused; I have stretched out my hand, and no man regarded;

25 But ye have set at nought all my counsel, and would none of my reproof:

26 I also will laugh at your calamity; I will mock when your fear cometh;

Here the Bible plainly says, “I have called you and you refused, I have stretched out my hand and no man regard; but ye hath set at naught all my counsel, and would none of my reproof.” That doesn’t sound like irresistible grace to me. God calls, and man refuses, is that irresistible? God stretches out His hands, and no man regards it. Is that irresistible grace? The Bible makes it plain that some men do reject Christ, and refuse His call. John 5:40

40 And ye will not come to me, that ye might have life.

This like many other verses plainly teaches that man can and do resist God and refuse to come to Him.

In Acts, chapter 7, we find Stephen preaching. He says in verse 51, “Ye stiff-necked and uncircumcised in heart and ears, ye do always resist the Holy Ghost: as your fathers did, so do ye.” To the Jewish leaders Stephen said, “Ye do always resist the Holy Ghost.”

Notice the words of Stephen in verse 51, “Ye do always resist the Holy Ghost: as your fathers did so do ye.” So it’s not only the Jewish leaders that were resisting the Holy Ghost, but their fathers did before them as well. Stephen said that all the way from Abraham, through the history of the Jewish nation, down to the time of Christ, unconverted Jews have rejected the Holy Spirit.

There is absolutely no such thing as “cant-help-it” religion. God doesn’t just force man to be saved with a so-called Irresistible Grace.

God offers salvation to all men. Titus 2:11

11 For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men,

But man must make his own choice and either receive or reject Christ.

John 1:12

12 But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name:

When Jesus wept over Jerusalem He said: Matt 23:37

37 O Jerusalem , Jerusalem, thou that killest the prophets, and stonest them which are sent unto thee, how often would I have gathered thy children together, even as a hen gathereth her chickens under her wings, and ye would not!

Here the Bible clearly indicates that God would have gathered them together, but they would not. They certainly show that they could reject and resist Christ.

“I would, but I could not” does not fit the teaching of irresistible grace. People do resist the Holy Ghost, they do refuse to come to Christ; they do harden their necks and refuse God’s call.

That means, those who are not saved could have been saved. Those who reject Christ, could have accepted Him and that God offers salvation to those who will have it; but does not force it upon anyone who doesn’t want it.

If you understand the purpose for which God made man, (to rule instead of Satan); you will understand that He could not have made some to be saved and some to be damned.

CHRIST DIED FOR ALL

2008-07-10T04:57:00.000-07:00

LIMITED ATONEMENT

By limited atonement, Calvin meant that Christ died only for the elect, for those He planned and ordained to go to Heaven: He did not die for those He planned and ordained to go to Hell. Again I say, such language is not in the Bible, and the doctrine wholly contradicts many, many, plain Scriptures.

For instance, the Bible says in 1 John 2:2

2 And he is the propitiation for our sins: and not for ours only, but also for the sins of the whole world.

The teaching of Calvinism on limited atonement contradicts the expressed statement of Scripture. 1 Tim. 2:5, 6 says, “The man Christ Jesus who gave Himself a ransom for all…..”

The Bible teaches that Jesus is the Saviour of the world. John 4:42

42 And said unto the woman, Now we believe, not because of thy saying: for we have heard him ourselves, and know that this is indeed the Christ, the Saviour of the world.

1 John 4:14

14 And we have seen and do testify that the Father sent the Son to be the Saviour of the world.

The Bible makes it plain that Jesus came to save the world: John 3:17

17 For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved.

No man will ever look at Jesus Christ and say, you didn’t want to be my Saviour. No! No! Jesus wants to be the Saviour of all men. As a matter of fact; Timothy says:

1 Tim 4:10

10 For therefore we both labour and suffer reproach, because we trust in the living God, who is the Saviour of all men, specially of those that believe.

The Bible teaches that Christ bore the sins of all people. Isa 53:6

6 All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned every one to his own way; and the LORD hath laid on him the iniquity of us all.

There are two “alls” in the verse. The first “all” deals with the universal fact of sin. “All we like sheep have gone astray…” And the second “all” deals with the universal atonement – “….and the Lord has laid the iniquity of us all.” The “all” in the first part of Isaiah 53:6, covers the same crowd that the “all” in the last part covers.

Not only did He bear the sins of us all, but the Bible plainly teaches that He died for the whole world. 1 John 2:2

2 And he is the propitiation for our sins: and not for ours only, but also for the sins of the whole world.

If that isn’t plain enough, the Bible says, His death was for every man.
Heb 2:9

9 But we see Jesus, who was made a little lower than the angels for the suffering of death, crowned with glory and honour; that he by the grace of God should taste death for every man.

Nothing could be plainer than the fact that Jesus Christ died for every man. 1 Tim 2:5-6

5 For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus;

6 Who gave himself a ransom for all, to be testified in due time.

Rom 8:32

32 He that spared not his own Son, but delivered him up for us all, how shall he not with him also freely give us all things?

Look at the statements – statement after statement; “that He by the grace of God should taste death for every man”; “who gave Himself a ransom for all”; “delivered Him up for all.”

John 3:16 has often been called “the heart of the Bible.” It has been called “the Bible in miniature.” “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth on Him, should not perish but have everlasting life.” Jesus died for the whole world. He suffered Hell for every man that ever lived and who will ever live. No man will ever look out of Hell and say, “I wanted to be saved, but Jesus didn’t die for me.”

Some argue that if Jesus died for the whole world, the whole world would be saved. No! The death of Jesus Christ on the cross was sufficient for all, but it was efficient only for those who believe. The death of Jesus Christ on the cross made it possible for every man every where to be saved. But only those who believe that He died to pay their sin debt and who trusted Him completely for salvation will be saved.

Again I quote John 3:36

36 He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life: and he that believeth not the Son shall not see life; but the wrath of God abideth on him.

Everybody is potentially saved, but everybody is not actually saved until he recognizes that he is a sinner, believe that Christ died on the cross to pay his sin debt, and trust Him completely for salvation.

The atonement is not limited; it is as universal as sin. Rom 5:20

20 Moreover the law entered, that the offence might abound. But where sin abounded, grace did much more abound:

Isa 53:6

6 All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned every one to his own way; and the LORD hath laid on him the iniquity of us all.

A famous English preacher spoke in an English town, then rushed to catch a train for London. A sinner who heard him preach felt that he must immediately settle the matter of salvation, so he followed the preacher on the train. Just as the train pulled into the station, he took hold of the preacher’s lapel and said, “I need to be saved! Tell me how!”

The preacher said, “I must catch the last train to London. Do you have a Bible?” Look at Isaiah 53:6 and it has it all.

Well he thought to himself, I can certainly go in at the first all. I have gone astray. I am a poor, lost sinner. Then he read the last part of the verse, “and the Lord had laid on Him the iniquity of us all.” He said to himself, “if I come out at the last all, I must believe that all my sins were laid on Christ, that He took my place and paid for my sins. And if I rely upon that, I will be saved. That’s what the preacher meant.

He then trusted Christ and was saved. He believed that he was a sinner, and that all his sins were laid on Christ.

ELECTION - ACCORDING TO SCRIPTURE

2008-07-08T03:24:00.000-07:00

UNCONDITIONAL ELECTION

By unconditional election, Calvin meant that some are elected to Heaven, while others are elected to Hell, and that this election is unconditional. It is wholly on God’s part and without condition. By unconditional election Calvin meant that God has already decided who will be saved and who will be lost, and the individual has absolutely nothing to do with it. He can only hope that God has elected him to Heaven and not to Hell.

This teaching so obviously disagrees with the oft-repeated invitation in the Bible to sinners to come to Christ and be saved that some readers will think that I have overstated the doctrine. So I will quote from John Calvin in his institutes, Book 111, chapter 23:

…..Not all men are created with similar destiny but eternal life is foreordained for some, and eternal damnation for others. Everyman, therefore, being created for one or the other of these ends, we say, he is predestined either to life or to death.

Calvin teaches that it is God’s own choice that some people are to be damned forever, and He never intended to save them. He foreordained them to go to Hell, and when He offers salvation in the Bible, He does not offer it to those that are foreordained to go to Hell. It is offered only to those that are foreordained to be saved.

This teaching insists that we need not try to win men to Christ because men cannot be saved unless God has planned for them to be saved. Therefore, if God’s plan for them is that they be eternally lost, there is no way that they will be saved.

There is the Bible doctrine of God’s foreknowledge, predestination, and election. Most knowledgeable Christians agree that God has His controlling hands in the affairs of man. They agree that according to the Bible, He selects individuals like Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, and David as instruments to do certain things He has planned. Most Christians agree that God may choose a nation – particularly that He did choose Israel, through which He gave the law, the prophets, and eventually through whom the Saviour Himself would come – and there is a Biblical doctrine that God foreknows everything (Deut. 7:6-11).

I have often said, “did it ever occur to you that nothing ever occurs to God?” God in His foreknowledge knows all who will trust Christ and He has predestined to see that they are justified and glorified. He will keep all those who trust Him and see to their glorification. But the doctrine that God elected some to Hell, they were born to be damned by God’s own choice, is a radical heresy, not taught anywhere in the Scriptures.

I have a booklet entitled, TULIP written by Vic Lockman. In this booklet Mr. Lockman attempts to prove the five points of Calvinism. Under the point, Unconditional Election, he quotes Eph. 1:4, but he only quote the first part of the verse. “He hath chosen us in Him before the foundation of the world.” However that is not the end of the verse. Mr. Lockman like most other Calvinists; stopped in the middle of the verse. The entire verse reads: “According as He hath chosen us in Him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before Him in love.” The verse says nothing about being chosen for Heaven or Hell. It says that we are chosen that we should be holy and without blame before Him in love. The verse is actually addressing believers. Under the same point, Unconditional Election, Mr. Lockman quote:

John 15:16;

“You have not chosen me, but I have chosen you and ordained you, that ye should go and bring forth fruit, and that your fruit should remain: that whatsoever ye shall ask of the Father in my name, He may give it to you.”

The verse says nothing about being chosen for Heaven or Hell. But it says we are to go out and bring forth fruit (believers again). Fruit bearing has to do with the doctrine of the kingdom, and how one seeks after the salvation of his soul. Prov 11:30

30 The fruit of the righteous is a tree of life; and he that winneth souls is wise.

Nowhere does the Bible teach that God wills for some to go to Hell and others to Heaven. Instead, the Bible teaches that God would have all men to be saved:

2 Peter 3:9

9 The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.

1 Tim 2:4

4 Who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth.

Those who teach that God would only have some to be saved, while He would have others to be lost, are misrepresenting God and His Word. Does God really predestinate some people to be saved and predestinate others to be damned so that they have no free choice? Absolutely not! Nobody is predestined to be saved, except as he chooses of his own free will to come to Christ and trust Him for salvation. And nobody is predestined to Hell, except as he chooses on his own free will to reject Christ and refuses to trust Him as Saviour:

John 3:36

36 He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life: and he that believeth not the Son shall not see life; but the wrath of God abideth on him.

Nothing could be plainer. The man who goes to Heaven, goes because he comes to Jesus Christ and trust His as his Saviour. The man that goes to Hell does so because he refuses to come to Jesus Christ and trust Him.

CALVINSM

2008-07-07T05:19:00.000-07:00

CALVINISM - SCRIPTURAL OR NOT?

The term “Calvinism” is a loosely used term by some people who do not hold Calvin’s teaching on predestination and do not understand exactly what Calvin taught.

Dr. Loraine Boettner in his book, “The Reformed Doctrine of Predestination” , says, “The Calvinistic system especially emphasizes five different doctrines, these are technically know as: ‘The Five Points of Calvinism’ and they are the main pillows upon which the superstructure rest.” [Presbyterian & Reformed Publishing Co., 1932].

Dr. Boettner says: “The five points may be more easily remembered if they are associated with the word TULIP. T-Total Inability; U-Unconditional Election; L-Limited Atonement; I-Irresistible (efficacious) Grace; and P-Perseverance of the Saints.”

These are the five points of Calvinism. I have heard preachers say, “I am a one point Calvinist.” I have heard them say, “I am a two or three point Calvinist.” I want us to look at the five points of Calvinism taught by John Calvin, and see what the Bible has to say on each point.

TOTAL INABILITY

By total inability Calvin meant that a lost sinner cannot come to Jesus Christ and trust Him as Saviour, unless he is foreordained to come to Christ. By total inability he meant that no man has the ability to come to Christ, and unless God over powers him and give him that ability, he will never come to Christ.

The Bible does teach total depravity, but it’s not the same as “total inability”. Total depravity simply mean: “there is nothing good in man, he is incapable of earning; and does not even deserve salvation.” The Bible says in Jer. 17:9 “The heart is deceitful above all things and desperately wicked.”

A preacher brought a wonderful sermon on the depravity of the human heart. When he was finished his message, someone came to him and said, “I want you to know that I can’t swallow that ‘depraved heart’ that you just spoke about.” The preacher smiled and said, “You don’t have to swallow it, it’s already in you!”

While the Bible teaches the depravity of the human race, it nowhere teaches his total inability. The Bible never hints that people are lost because they have no ability to come to Christ. The language of Jesus was, “Ye will not come to me that ye might have life” (John 5:40).

Jesus looked over Jerusalem and wept and said, “O Jerusalem, Jerusalem…how often would I have gathered thy children together, even as a hen gathereth her chickens under her wings, and ye would not!” (Matt. 23:37). Here again notice, He did not say, “How often would I have gathered you and ‘you could not’. No. He said “you would not!” It was not a matter of whether or not they could, it was whether or not they would.

The last invitation of the Bible: Rev 22:17

17 And the Spirit and the bride say, Come. And let him that heareth say, Come. And let him that is athirst come. And whosoever will, let him take the water of life freely.

If it is true that no person has the ability to come to Christ, then why would Jesus make statements like that He made in: John 5:40

40 And ye will not come to me, that ye might have life.

Why didn’t He simply say, “ye cannot come to me ”?

The only thing that stands between the sinner and salvation is the sinner’s will. God made every man a free moral agent, and God never burglarizes the human will.

D. L. Moody addressed a large group of skeptics. He said, “I want to talk about the word believe and the word take.” When Mr. Moody had finished his sermon, he asked, “now who will come and take Christ as their Saviour?” One man stood and said, “I can’t.”

Mr. Moody wept and said, “don’t say I can’t.” Say, “I won’t!” And the man said, “then I won’t .” Another man said, “I will!” And another and another until scores came to trust Christ as Saviour.

Some Calvinist use John 6:44 in an effort to prove total inability.
John 6:44

44 No man can come to me, except the Father which hath sent me draw him: and I will raise him up at the last day.

But the Bible makes it plain in John 12:32 that Christ will draw all men unto Himself: John 12:32

32 And I, if I be lifted up from the earth, will draw all men unto me.

All men are drawn to Christ, but not all men will trust Christ as Saviour. Every man will make his own decision to trust Christ or to reject Him. The Bible makes it clear that all men have light: John 1:10

9 That was the true Light, which lighteth every man that cometh into the world.

Romans 1:19, 20 indicates that man was created for this specific purpose. Rom 1:19-20

19 Because that which may be known of God is manifest in them; for God hath shewed it unto them.

20 For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse:

Romans 2:11-16 indicates that sinners are called through their consciences, even when they have not heard the Word of God. Rom 2:11-16

11 For there is no respect of persons with God.

12 For as many as have sinned without law shall also perish without law: and as many as have sinned in the law shall be judged by the law;

13(For not the hearers of the law are just before God, but the doers of the law shall be justified.

14 For when the Gentiles, which have not the law, do by nature the things contained in the law, these, having not the law, are a law unto themselves:

15 Which shew the work of the law written in their hearts, their conscience also bearing witness, and their thoughts the mean while accusing or else excusing one another;)

16 In the day when God shall judge the secrets of men by Jesus Christ according to my gospel.

In the final analysis, man goes to Hell, not because of their inability to come to Christ; but because they will not come to Christ. John 5:40

40 And ye will not come to me , that ye might have life.

The teaching that man, woman, and children are totally unable to come to Christ and trust Him as Saviour is not a Biblical doctrine, the language itself is not scriptural.

AVAILABLE BIBLE TEACHERS

2008-07-06T04:29:00.000-07:00

WHO ARE CHUCK AND NANCY MISSLER?

To those of my readers that these names are unfamiliar, Nancy Missler has published twelve books – The King’s High Way Series. The Plain and Simple Series and the In His Likeness Series. All of the above studies have textbooks, as well as workbooks, audios, DVDs and Leader’s Guides. The above series are the result of over 35 years of research and are being taught all across the United States and Canada, as well as Europe, Australia, New Zealand, Africa and the Far East.

Nancy has been married for 50 years to Chuck Missler, an internationally know Bible teacher and author. Chuck and Nancy live in Coeur d’ Alene, Idao, and are the parents of four grown children, one of whom has gone to be with the Lord, and seven grand children.

The King’s High Way is a ministry dedicated to encouraging and teaching Christians how to walk out their faith, i.e., focusing on the practical application of Biblical principles. Their passion is to help believers learn how to love as Jesus loved; how to renew their minds so their lives can be transformed; and, how to have unshakeable faith in their night seasons. Isaiah 62:10 is their commission: helping believers walk on the King’s High Way by gathering out the stumbling blocks and lifting up the banner of Jesus.

Whenever I use the works of these dear folks, may you feel the passion they have for helping people to know Jesus Christ and His planned glory more.

I came into contact with these people first through one of their books I purchased at a Kingdom Conferences in Venus Texas, it was such a tremendous blessing; I have read several other books from them and watched DVDs as well that has enreached my life. I recommend their work to every Christian. Write them at:

The King’s Highway Ministries Inc.
P.O. Box 311, Coeur d’ Alene, ID 83816

Or visit: www.kingshighway.org

BRIDE TAKEN FROM THE CHURCH/THE BODY

2008-07-05T04:50:00.000-07:00

CHURCH, BODY, BRIDE

There is great misunderstanding as to whom will comprise the 'bride of Christ' (who is to one day reign with Christ as consort queen). We need to understand the redemptive work of the Son in relation to the bride as introduced in the New Testament, though previously set forth millenniums before. They were previously set forth in the first three chapters of Genesis, through the experience of Adam in relation to Eve; and these principles remain unchanged throughout Scripture.

Adam was the first man upon the earth. He was also a type of Christ, the second Man, the last Adam:

Rom 5:14

14 Nevertheless death reigned from Adam to Moses, even over them that had not sinned after the similitude of Adam's transgression, who is the figure of him that was to come.
KJV

1 Cor 15:45-47

45 And so it is written, The first man Adam was made a living soul; the last Adam was made a quickening spirit.

46 Howbeit that was not first which is spiritual, but that which is natural; and afterward that which is spiritual.

47 The first man is of the earth, earthy: the second man is the Lord from heaven.
KJV

The experiences of Adam in relation to Eve, prefigures the experience of Christ in relation to His bride. Eve was created in Adam at the very beginning, but was not brought into existence as a separate entity until a later point in time. Adam was put to sleep, his side opened, and from this opening side, God took a rib and formed Eve. Eve, in this manner, was taken out of Adam and then presented back to Adam for a helpmate.

Gen 2:20

20 And Adam gave names to all cattle, and to the fowl of the air, and to every beast of the field; but for Adam there was not found an help meet for him.
KJV

Adam, apart from Eve was incomplete (for she was part of his very being – bone of his bone, and flesh of his flesh). And, because of this, when presented back to Adam, Eve completed Adam. In the highest sense, Eve was still part of Adam’s body, and God looked upon both together as “one flesh.” Both together, though two entities, formed one compete person:

Gen 2:21-24

21 And the LORD God caused a deep sleep to fall upon Adam and he slept: and he took one of his ribs, and closed up the flesh instead thereof;

22 And the rib, which the LORD God had taken from man, made he a woman, and brought her unto the man.

23 And Adam said, This is now bone of my bones, and flesh of my flesh: she shall be called Woman, because she was taken out of Man.

24 Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh.
KJV

In the antitype, the bride of Christ has existed in the Son from eternity. The bride’s existence and salvation date back to a past time, “before the foundation of the world”

Eph 1:4

4 According as he hath chosen us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before him in love:
KJV

Rev 13:8

8 And all that dwell upon the earth shall worship him, whose names are not written in the book of life of the Lamb slain from the foundation of the world.
KJV

The bride, however, could not be brought into existence as a separate entity until the Son, at a time during Man’s Day, was put to sleep and His side opened. This is the significance of Calvary.

The work of the Spirit now is to secure a bride for the Son, this bride has to come from His body; as was typified in Eve being a part of Adam's body, (but not all of Adam's body) - she was taken from his body and then presented back to him later. It is exactly the same the "bride" is a part of Christ's body (but not all if His body), at a later date will be presented back to Him.

It is "faithful obedience" that will make that part of Christ's body presentable and qualified to be His bride.

Heb. 3:14

For we are made partakers of Christ, if we hold the beginning of our confidence steadfast unto the end.

KJV.

This is another proof text that shows that we are not "partakers" just by being saved, but "...by holding our confidence steadfast unto the end".

WHICH SALVATION?

2008-07-03T18:20:00.000-07:00

I have been asked by many to disclose the source of my studies. I don't want to be guilty of plagiarizim; but I have been creticized in the past for using the same few authors (with the Scripture of course). The truth is, I have to use the same few as there are not very many people that undanstands the Word of the Kingdom. I hope my readers are mature enough as I am compelled from now on to state the source. I hope no one will be offended, don't be driven away, because you see the same names often; be like the saints at Berea, (Acts 17:10, 11); search the Scriptures and see if these things are so.

I do apologize to persons whose work I have used in the past without mentioning your names. It's not that I don't want you to get the credit, but Satan has tried to find everything he can to prevent people from studying the Word of the kingdom.

SALVATION AS IT RELATES TO US

The whole of the matter of the sin question in relation to salvation – past, present, and future – is dealt with today through exactly the same means, as it was in the OT; through death and the shed blood. This is an established fashion that cannot change.
1 Cor 5:7

7 Purge out therefore the old leaven, that ye may be a new lump, as ye are unleavened. For even Christ our Passover is sacrificed for us:
KJV

Acts 16:30-31

30 And brought them out, and said, Sirs, what must I do to be saved?

31 And they said, Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved, and thy house.
KJV

Remember Jesus Christ is the Paschal Lamb that was slain for the sins of all mankind. That is what John the Baptist was saying when he said:

John 1:29

29 The next day John seeth Jesus coming unto him, and saith, Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world.
KJV

Sin is now dealt with through Christ’s high priestly work and His shed blood presently on the mercy seat in the heavenly sanctuary.
See Hebrews 9.

Christ died for our sins:

1 Cor 15:3

3 For I delivered unto you first of all that which I also received, how that Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures;
KJV

He presently lives, exercising a priestly office, in order to make intersession for us; providing a present cleansing from sin.
Heb 7:25

25 Wherefore he is able also to save them to the uttermost that come unto God by him, seeing he ever liveth to make intercession for them.
KJV

1 John 1:6-2:2

6 If we say that we have fellowship with him, and walk in darkness, we lie, and do not the truth:

7 But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin.

8 If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us.

9 If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.

10 If we say that we have not sinned, we make him a liar, and his word is not in us.

1 John 2

2:1 My little children, these things write I unto you, that ye sin not. And if any man sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous:

2 And he is the propitiation for our sins: and not for ours only, but also for the sins of the whole world.
KJV

Now Christians, because of this twofold work of Christ (Prophet and Priest), can look forward to a third work of Christ when He comes forth as King. We can look forward to reigning as consort queen with Him during the coming day of His power.

In this respect, everything surrounding God’s redemptive work through His Son – past and present – moves toward a revealed time when this redemptive work will be realized in its fullness in the coming kingdom. Thus, when Peter denied to Christ His work as Prophet at Calvary – “Lord: this shall not be unto thee” [Matt. 16:22] – he, apart from realizing that which he was doing, was not only denying to Christ His subsequent work as Priest but he was also denying to Christ His future work as King as well. This is something he had previously acknowledged:

Matt 16:16

16 And Simon Peter answered and said, Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God.
KJV

This was the reason for the severe rebuke he experienced at Christ’s hands, “get thee behind me Satan.” (v.23).

The events of Matt. 16 occurred shortly after Israel’s “blasphemy against the Holy Spirit” and Christ’s subsequent departure form “the house” – the house of Israel (chs. 12, 13). And for all practical purposes, even though the announcement was not made until later (Matt. 21: 43), the kingdom of the heavens (at the time of the events in Matt. 16) had already been taken from Israel and was about to be offered to a separate and distinct “nation.” This new “nation,” the Church:

1 Peter 2:9-10

9 But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light:

10 Which in time past were not a people, but are now the people of God: which had not obtained mercy, but now have obtained mercy.
KJV

Would in turn, do that which Israel had failed to do – bring forth “the fruit thereof [fruit relating to the kingdom].”

Thus, attention called to the Church in connection with the kingdom of the heavens at this point in Christ’s ministry, to later be more fully revealed through the Apostle Paul, is at the exact juncture where one might expect such revelation – after Israel’s climactic rejection (ch. 12), followed by Christ’s departure from the house (ch. 13).

Research by Arlen Chitwood.

AT THE END OF YOUR FAITH - WHAT?

2008-07-03T06:13:00.000-07:00

GETTING READY FOR THE END OF YOUR FAITH –
THE SALVATION OF YOUR SOUL

It is the popular belief in Christendom, that all that’s necessary is that we be saved and go to “heaven.” That is not exactly what the Bible teaches. A careful study will show that there is much more to do having being saved than just the initial act of being saved.

The Bible tells us how one gets saved, by believing on the Lord Jesus Christ (Acts 16:30-31). There is where we receive the free gift of a redeemed spirit:
1 Cor 12:13

13 For by one Spirit are we all baptized into one body, whether we be Jews or Gentiles, whether we be bond or free; and have been all made to drink into one Spirit .
KJV

Having now being born into the family of God, this is where the “new life in Christ” begins; from here on we have to work out our (sou’sl) salvation:
Phil 2:12

12 Wherefore, my beloved, as ye have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling.
KJV

This is the “salvation” that is realized at the end of one’s faith (end of your Christian walk); this is where you know if you are approved or cast away.
1 Peter 1:9

9 Receiving the end of your faith , even the salvation of your souls.
KJV

1 Cor 9:26-27

26 I therefore so run, not as uncertainly; so fight I, not as one that beateth the air:

27 But I keep under my body, and bring it into subjection: lest that by any means, when I have preached to others, I myself should be a castaway.
KJV

In this respect “salvation” is really a lifelong process.
1 Thess 5:23

23 And the very God of peace sanctify you wholly; and I pray God your whole spirit and soul and body be preserved blameless unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.
KJV

It doesn’t consist of one simple choice, but thousands upon thousands of choices. It happens something like this: Our spirit is saved at our new birth, the moment we choose to believe in Christ and receive His Spirit. This is called “justification”. Our soul – which is made up of our own natural thoughts, emotions, and desires – is in the process of being saved through the process referred to as “sanctification,” the process the Christian presently undertakes. And our body – will be saved in the future at the resurrection which is often referred to as “glorification” [Glorification is much more than that but we will study that at a future date]. Just give it a thought, if “resurrection” and “glorification” were one and the same, the unsaved man would also be glorified at his resurrection.

Scripture tells us that all three of these parts of our beings must be presented “blameless” unto the coming of the Lord Jesus Christ (1 Thess. 5:23). Therefore, if our soul is really made up of our natural thoughts and emotions, then we can see with the many bad thoughts and emotions; our souls like our decaying bodies are not yet redeemed. The spirit on the other hand, is the gift of God and therefore the work on that is complete. To put it in summary, the Christian’s spirit is saved, while his soul and body are being saved.

So, the first step of salvation – justification – means receiving God’s eternal Life in our spirits. It means we have passed from death (separation from God) to Life (God is, once again in us); whereas, the next step in salvation “sanctification” means seeing that the Life of God begin to actually transform our soul – really being able to live God’s Life. My understanding of 1 Peter 1:6-9 is that we cannot claim the salvation of our souls until the “end of our faith” at the judgment seat of Christ.

Be sure to understand that this does not affect our “Eternal Security,” because we have a saved spirit – the gift of God and it’s on that merit we are eternally saved. But soul salvation has to do with the Millennial kingdom, that “rest” that remains for the people of God (Heb. 4:1), let us do all we can not to allow it to slip. Our mind, emotions and spiritual life are changing and we are becoming more like Him – that’s the way of a Christian that is seeking for the salvation of his soul. This is how we become partakers of Christ’s very nature – beginning to reflect His Love, His power and His wisdom to all wit whom we come in contact. But you may ask, “what if we don’t?” The answer is simply, “we will not be partakers with Christ in His coming kingdom.”
Heb 3:14

14 For we are made partakers of Christ, if we hold the beginning of our confidence stedfast unto the end;
KJV

Please note that little word “if” in this verse and it would do us well to look at some of the “if” passages in Scripture. Something happens “if” we do so and so; and the same is true; it won’t happen “if” we don’t.

Thus the salvation of the spirit – justification – is not the end of the race; it’s only the beginning of our walk with the Lord. [Too many Christians have stops there]. But receiving the Holy Spirit in our spirit is like the down payment, the pledge or the seal of a much greater commitment that is yet forthcoming:

Eph 1:13

13 In whom ye also trusted, after that ye heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation: in whom also after that ye believed, ye were sealed with that holy Spirit of promise,
KJV

The union of our spirits is simply a symbol of our “betrothal.”

Once we are justified, God can begin the process of sanctification where He literally makes us in character and action, righteous, holy and set apart. He does this work in our lives by the power of His Holy Spirit, but we have to choose to allow Him to work His work in us. This transformation does not happen automatically. We must choose to allow God to remake us into righteous and holy vessels, reflecting Him in all we do.

Justification (spirit salvation) is a free gift that we simply receive and embrace, whereas, sanctification (soul salvation) is the process that will outwardly reveal our walk – if it’s in the spirit or in the flesh.
John 13:35

35 By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another.
KJV

Justification will surely get us into “heaven,” it opens the door for us, but sanctification will make us those overcomers who rule and reign with Christ in the Millennium.

The word “sanctification” (Strong’s #38, hagiasmos) simply means to be “separated to God.” See 1 Corinthians 1:30; 2 Thessalonians 2:13; and 1 Peter 1:2. Positionally this happens at our new birth when our spirit is sanctified, experientially, the sanctification of our soul takes a lifetime. See 1 Thessalonians 4:3-4; Romans 6:19, 22; Hebrews 12:14. Sanctification is a relationship with God that is entered into at our new birth, but is demonstrated by a changed life. The sanctification of the soul is God’s will for every Christian. It is the process by which God conforms us back into His image, which was lost when Adam and Eve sinned. It’s the means God uses to make us partakers of His Life so that we can become the overcomers who inherit the Millennial Kingdom. The goal of sanctification then, is to make us more like Christ.

Sanctification refers to an inward change – a metamorphosis – brought about apart from the natural strength of the individual. Our fulfillment, our meaning and our significance in this life and the next will all rest upon this transformation process.

The measure of our inclusion in Christ’s coming kingdom, will be found in the measure of our sanctification here and now. Thus, it’s important to always keep the big picture in mind. We are saved with a view towards realizing our inheritance as co-heirs of Christ’s heavenly kingdom at a future date – you are not saved just to go to “heaven.”

WHEN WILL HIS GLORY FILL THE TEMPLE?

2008-06-17T06:38:00.000-07:00

THE RETURN OF THE GLORY OF GOD

There are many people that have not been able to make the distinction between “the gospel of the grace of God” and “the gospel of the glory of Christ.” They are not the same according to Scripture.

God’s glory is the theme that runs throughout the Book of Ezekiel. Glory is an aspect of God’s character. His name alone is glorious. The Spirit of God seems to be featured more prominently in the Book of Ezekiel than any other of the prophetic books. One of the first visions that Ezekiel has portrays the Spirit of God leaving Solomon’s Temple, as the Babylonians were besieging the city of Jerusalem around B.C. 586. The departure of the glory of God signaled the end of a relationship between God and His people that had existed for four centuries. The Divine King finally abandoned His residence. This was all happening because His chosen people had despised His laws, turned aside from worshiping Him, filled the land with violence and persecuted His prophets. God never withdraws unless He is rejected and driven away, which is exactly what had happened; His people hand been stubborn, obstinate, and rebellious.

Many of the Jews had already been captured and exiled in Babylon and were still in shock over the destruction of Jerusalem. Like Isaiah, Ezekiel was called to prophesy to these rebellious people that another glorious kingdom was coming and that it would never be destroyed. He was appointed by God as a “watchman,” not only to warn Israel about the dangers of Divine Judgment, but also to encourage them about the blessings that lie ahead for their obedience. God told Ezekiel not to fear how the Jews responded, but to speak His Word, His Word only:
Ezek 2:6-7

6 And thou, son of man, be not afraid of them, neither be afraid of their words, though briers and thorns be with thee, and thou dost dwell among scorpions: be not afraid of their words, nor be dismayed at their looks, though they be a rebellious house.

7 And thou shalt speak my words unto them, whether they will hear, or whether they will forbear: for they are most rebellious.
KJV

Successes, God told him, would be measured by his faithfulness to proclaim the message, not by Israel’s response, a great lesson for us to remember also.

The highlight of the Book of Ezekiel is his detailed description of the Millennial Temple in chapters 40-46. This vision was to make the Jews ashamed of their previous sins, to cause them to repent and finally, to make them realize God’s faithfulness to every one of His promises.

The climax of Ezekiel’s prophetic vision of the Millennial Temple (chapter 47); occurs when the glory of God returns from the East, over the Mount of Olives, and once again enter the temple:

Ezek 43:1-5
43:1 Afterward he brought me to the gate, even the gate that looketh toward the east:

2 And, behold, the glory of the God of Israel came from the way of the east: and his voice was like a noise of many waters: and the earth shined with his glory.

3 And it was according to the appearance of the vision which I saw, even according to the vision that I saw when I came to destroy the city: and the visions were like the vision that I saw by the river Chebar; and I fell upon my face.

4 And the glory of the LORD came into the house by the way of the gate whose prospect is toward the east.

5 So the spirit took me up, and brought me into the inner court; and, behold, the glory of the LORD filled the house.
KJV

When the glory of the Lord takes position of the temple and fills it with His radiance of heavenly light and power, it highlights God’s presence among His people again and the restoration of their fellowship. Haggai tells us that not only will God Himself dwell in this temple, but that “the glory of this house shall exceed the glory of the former:
Hag 2:9

9 The glory of this latter house shall be greater than of the former, saith the LORD of hosts: and in this place will I give peace, saith the LORD of hosts.
KJV

Ezekiel’s vision describes a literal temple that will be built in the Millennium. Many other Old Testament prophets envisioned this same future temple in their writings. (See Isa. 60:13; Joel 3:18; Micah 4:2; Haggai 2:7-9; Zech. 6:12-15; 14:16).

Some theologians believe that the temple we see in Ezekiel is the temple that will be built in the Tribulation and that will be desecrated by the Antichrist. Some have difficulty accepting that, I don’t really; the very way I believe Jesus Christ will dethrone Satan and take his crown and the scepter (when He becomes all in all), it’s the way I believe He will take over the new sanctified temple. Holiness will be the main focus of the new temple in the Millennium.

It is interesting to note that “the glory of the Lord returns to the temple only when the separation between the sanctuary and the profane place is accomplished.” The Spirit of the Lord returns to the temple only when the purification is completed. This whole event in Ezekiel – The filling of the temple with the glory of God – can be somewhat analogous to a believer being filled with the Spirit. We, too, can be refilled only when we are purified and holy. We must personally confess and repent of our sin and self so that God’s Spirit can, once again, manifest Himself through us.

The message of Ezekiel’s Temple to the believer is a call to holiness. Scripture tells us that we must be holy, just as He is holy:
1 Peter 1:15-16

15 But as he which hath called you is holy, so be ye holy in all manner of conversation;

16 Because it is written, Be ye holy; for I am holy.
KJV

As it is in Ezekiel’s Temple, holiness is seen by the encircling wall around the sanctuary, making the separation between it and the profane place secure:
Ezek 42:20

20 He measured it by the four sides: it had a wall round about, five hundred reeds long, and five hundred broad, to make a separation between the sanctuary and the profane place.
KJV

Dear believer, “take time to be holy”.

WISDOM BEGINS WHEN ONE FEARS THE LORD

2008-06-14T01:57:00.000-07:00

FAITHFUL AND WISE SERVANT (Matt. 24:42-51)

The word “wisdom” is used in Scripture in a very unique way, it is usually in reference to a believer that is “faithful.” The Psalmist expresses it thus:
Ps 111:10

10 The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom : a good understanding have all they that do his commandments: his praise endureth for ever.
KJV

The writer of the Proverbs also conveys the same theme:
Prov 9:10

10 The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom : and the knowledge of the holy is understanding.
KJV

Jesus’ distinction between a carnal believer and a spiritual in His parable of the “Faithful and Wise servants” of Matthew 24 is clearly presented. There are many different interpretations of this parable, so I suggest our being like the saints at Berea in Acts 17:11; “search the Scriptures and see if these things are so.”

After finishing with the parable of the “fig tree,” Jesus warns His disciples: “Watch, therefore; for ye know not what hour your Lord doth come.” Then He continues, “But know this, that if the Goodman of the house had known in what watch the thief would come, he would have watched and would not have suffered [allowed] his house to be broken into. Therefore, be ye also ready; for in such an hour as ye think not the Son of man cometh.”

Then He asks His disciples, “Who, then, is a faithful and wise servant who his lord hath made ruler over his household, to give them meat in due season? Blessed is that servant whom his lord when he cometh shall find so doing. Verily I say unto you, that he shall make him ruler over all his goods.”

Jesus then warns His disciples about the unfaithful and disobedient servant: “If that evil servant shall say in his heart, ‘my Lord delayeth his coming;’ and shall begin to smite his fellow servants, and to eat and drink and be drunken, the lord of that servant shall come in a day when he looketh not for him, and in an hour that he is not aware of, and shall cut him asunder and appoint him his portion with the hypocrites, there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth. The same idea is conveyed in Luke’s gospel:
Luke 12:47

47 And that servant, which knew his lord's will, and prepared not himself, neither did according to his will, shall be beaten with many stripes.
KJV

COMENTS ABOUT THE “FAITHFUL AND WISE SERVANTS”

The unfaithful and disobedient servant here is equivalent of the carnal Christian. The word “evil” (Strong’s #2556) in Matthew 24:48 simply means a worthless or injurious person. It means he lacks the qualities that he should possess. He thought his lord would delay his coming. And this, of course, affected how he lived his life. He was lazy, untrustworthy and cruel. He abused his position by being ill tempered and self-indulgent to all those who worked with him. He thought he would never be called into account, because he secretly believed his lord would not come. [Are there some similarities with Christians here today?]

In verse 51 the Lord says something similar to the parable of the Ten Talents and the Man without the Wedding Garment. However, “outer darkness” is replaced by the term “a portion with the hypocrites.” Again I advise you to search the Scriptures and see if we are both seeing the same thing.

He says the unfaithful servant will be “cut asunder,” appointed “a place [or portion] with the hypocrites” and there will be “weeping and gnashing of teeth.” Being “cut asunder” (Strong’s #1371) means appropriate discipline “for one who had lived a double life.” It means the thoughts and motives of the person’s heart will be exposed and scrutinized. Hebrews 4:12 talks about a sharp two-edged sword that will bring to light the motives of our hearts, the things of darkness. “A portion with the hypocrites” could be referring to the “outer darkness” where other unfaithful Christians are, who assumed the role of servants but who did not really take care of others, have gone.

Another interpretation could well be unfaithful Christians being excluded from the Millennial kingdom of Christ and spend that one thousand years with those that have rejected Christ. They are the ones whose names are found in the book of life (seen in Rev. 20:15) and were not cast into the Lake of Fire. Their tears would be wiped away (Rev. 21:4) as the tabernacle of God is once again with them:
Rev 21:3-4

3 And I heard a great voice out of heaven saying, Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, and he will dwell with them, and they shall be his people, and God himself shall be with them, and be their God.

4 And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away.
KJV

Like the disobedient servant in the “parable of the Ten Talents,” this unfaithful servant will be thrown into the “separate place” – a place with all the other hypocrites – where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth. (Matt. 8:12; 22:13; 25:30). Again, we believe, (you check it out in the Word) this speaks of a dark space outside the lighted and company of the spiritual saints and the blessings provided to them – [depicted in Ezekiel’s Temple (Ezek. 42:20), the Gizrah, the Profane or separate place.”]
A Christian who refuses to avail himself of the moment-by-moment cleansing that God provides, is seen as walking in darkness. He has not been cleansed by the washing of the water of the Word, therefore he can only remain in the darkened courtyard outside the light of the Holy Place.

Weeping and gnashing of teeth could well apply to carnal believers reflecting remorsefully on their lives and all the missed opportunities. Scripture says they will remember. Again, God will have just reminded them of every detail of their lives ant the Judgment Seat.

The Pulpit Commentary says that “rewards and punishments will be allotted in the coming world with strict justice. To some, great knowledge of the Divine will be given and a high lace in the city of God will be allotted. But for those that fail, their portion will be many stripes…They will occupy a lower grade in the hierarchy of heaven, (or in the darkness outside) [emphasis mine].

The faithful and wise servant in this story, of course, is equivalent to a spiritual Christian. He placed the lord of the house and his desires above his own and was an obedient steward who provided fro his family. He did what he was required to do and he steadfastly awaited his lord’s return. In the same way, God entrusts us, His own servants, to feed His spiritual family, to do His will and to await His soon return. Our rewards for doing this will be the privilege of greater service in the coming kingdom.
The special pleasures, honors and splendors, which are to accompany the return of the Lord from heaven and the setting up of His kingdom, are to be a reward for fidelity and faithful service in His absence. Without these things, blessings will be forfe

SIGNS OF A CARNAL CHRISTIAN

2008-06-12T06:31:00.000-07:00

CHARACTERISTICS OF A CARNAL CHRISTIAN

A carnal Christian is one in whom the flesh is in control. These are believers who have a regenerated spirit (they are born again), but there has been no life transformation in their soul:
Rom 12:1-2
12:1 I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service.

2 And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.
KJV

Instead of overcoming the flesh, the world and the enemy by the authority and power of God, carnal Christians have themselves been overtaken. In the carnal Christian, the flesh rules, the world has a hold on them and the enemy has acquired an entrance. (The flesh, by the way, is Satan’s workshop – his realm of operation.) If we can learn to overcome the flesh by God’s Spirit, we put Satan out of work.

Some of the characteristics of a carnal Christian are independence, self-confidence and self reliance. (Much of the following description is taken from Watchman Nee’s The Spiritual Man.) A carnal Christian often makes himself the center of attraction and values self-will above God’s will. He is a soulish Christian, which means his self-life rules. He can do righteous deeds and do them well; however, Scripture tells us that any food deed that the flesh does is an abomination in the sight of God.
Luke 16:15

15 And he said unto them, Ye are they which justify yourselves before men; but God knoweth your hearts: for that which is highly esteemed among men is abomination in the sight of God.
KJV

A carnal Christian is ruled by self-centeredness, self-glory, self-exultation, self-love, self-pity and self-importance, self-ambition and pride. Everything he does, he does for show and to gain something for himself, even if it’s just the praise of men.
Isa 29:13

13 Wherefore the Lord said, Forasmuch as this people draw near me with their mouth, and with their lips do honour me, but have removed their heart far from me, and their fear toward me is taught by the precept of men:
KJV

These things are done for the love of self, not for God or His glory. In the Old Testament, Saul, Solomon, Lot and Uzziah would be considered carnal Christians.
Ezek 18:24

24 But when the righteous turneth away from his righteousness, and committeth iniquity, and doeth according to all the abominations that the wicked man doeth, shall he live? All his righteousness that he hath done shall not be mentioned: in his trespass that he hath trespassed, and in his sin that he hath sinned, in them shall he die.
KJV
A lack of love shows a denial of Christ’s character.

Further marks of identification are: Carnal Christians are often talkative and flippant, always making themselves the center of attraction. They tend to use many words and look upon themselves as more advanced than others. As a result, they are often faultfinders. Working for the Lord is of the utmost importance to them; however, they feel that everything must be done in a hurry. They do not wait on the Lord for His direction and His answers. They walk by sight, not faith. They often are uncommonly gifted, have great talents and majestic personalities. The also may have large spiritual vocabularies. They are usually ambitious and want to attain glory for themselves. They seek spiritual discernment in light of worldly wisdom rather than depending upon the Holy Spirit to lead them. But, again, they do all of this to dwell upon their own superiority, rather than reaching out to others.

Many carnal believers try to satisfy their curiosity by studying; there is this great quest to become “doctor”. They believe that knowing “mentally” is the same as possessing “experientially.” Thus, they are often double minded. They have great acquired knowledge, but very little Spirit-related knowledge. It’s important to be aware that increased spiritual head-knowledge can often become a trap. It can often strengthen our carnality, deceiving us into thinking we are spiritual. The danger of this is that because God’s Spirit is suppressed, the soulish and bodily realm will rule, allowing the power of darkness to also get advantage. God designed the sanctification process to remove all hindrances such as these, so that the Holy Spirit can control and direct us. Remember, sanctification is simply the process of restoring the image of Christ in each of us (salvation of the soul).
Gal 5:19-21

19 Now the works of the flesh are manifest, which are these; Adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness,

20 Idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, variance, emulations, wrath, strife, seditions, heresies,

21 Envyings, murders, drunkenness, revellings, and such like: of the which I tell you before, as I have also told you in time past, that they which do such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God.
KJV

It is difficult for us to know who is carnal and who is spiritual, God and the person knows. However, our lives and our actions will tell the real story. Our lives will either show forth “the fruit of the Spirit” manifested by our spiritual nature, or display “rotten fruit” showing forth our carnality. These are the ones that will not inherit the kingdom of God.

WHATEVER YOU DO, DO UNTO THE LORD

2008-06-11T04:15:00.000-07:00

A SERVANT’S HEART

When we think of spiritual Christians, there are some people that readily come to mind. These are people who are willing to put others first, but also to be total servants to all around them. Nothing is too hard for them and nothing is beneath them.

As we look around the Christian community today, however, it’s amazing how very few of these “servant-hearted” people we really see, especially in the Christian ministry. Christians who are willing to scrub toilets if necessary, work in the kitchen if needed or simply be behind the scenes. Humility, again, seems to be the word that best describes this type of spiritual believer.

In ministry, many Christians want to be up in front where they can be seen as “spiritual.” They want the visible jobs, the noticeable jobs and the best jobs! A spiritual Christian with a servant’s heart is one who is more interested in what God thinks and will do everything with pleasing Him in view. Therefore, the job is not the issue its more how it’d done. The Bible tells us that God’s eyes are towards the humble, the unpretentious and the ones who are free from pride. He knows our hearts and He can see our humility, as He also sees our pride, our arrogance and our self-centeredness. What is scary is that He is taking notes and will talk to us about each of these characteristics at the Judgment Seat.

This brings to memory a statement made by M.R. De Haan: “To come to Christ cost you nothing, to follow Christ cost you something; but to serve Christ cost you everything.

A couple of things to remember as we aspire to become spiritual Christians:

If whatever we do, does not issue from depending upon God’s Spirit of power, it is “of the flesh.”
Attempting to follow God without denying self, is root of all failure.
Putting confidence in the flesh will destroy our ability to glorify Christ.

Consequently, a spiritual Christian is one who is continually empowered by and controlled by God’s Spirit (His Love and His wisdom). They must continually bring their flesh into captivity and judge themselves so that God’s Life can come forth. Again, this is called the “exchanged life” and it is what the sanctification process is all about, (the salvation of the soul).

1 Peter 1:9

9 Receiving the end of your faith , even the salvation of your souls.

WALK IN THE SPIRIT (SPIRITUAL CHRISTIAN)

2008-06-09T05:15:00.000-07:00

CHARACTERISTICS of a SPIRITUAL CHRISITAN

Most Christians would like to believe they are “spiritual” and that's great, but the Bible has some clear guidelines that distinguish spiritual believers from carnal.

A spiritual Christian is one that depends on the Holy Spirit for everything. All his works are done by the power of the Spirit, not his flesh. His motive for speaking, working and living is simply the Love of God. A spiritual Christian is one who has not only been born again, but one who is also walking in the Spirit by the authority and power of God, thereby glorifying Him in all he does.

Galatians 5:22 gives us the characteristics that God lays down for a spiritual Christian. He is filled with “the fruit of the Spirit” as evidenced by Love (Agape), joy, peace, long-suffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, and temperance. All these characteristics manifest themselves in humility.
Luke 14:11

11 For whosoever exalteth himself shall be abased; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted.
KJV

This description of a spiritual Christian is amplified in 1 Corinthians 13:4-8 where Paul says, “Love (Agape) suffereth long, and is kind; [His Love] vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up, doth not behave itself unseemly, seeketh not [its] own, is not easily provoked, thinketh no evil; rejoiceth not in iniquity, but rejoiceth in the truth’ beareth all things, believeth all things, hopeth all things, endureth all things, [God’s Love] never fails”

2 Peter 1:5-8 describes these attributes even more. “And beside this, giving all diligence, add to our faith virtue; and to virtue knowledge; and to knowledge temperance; and to temperance patience; and to patience godliness; and to godliness brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness charity. For if these things be in you, and abound, they make you that ye shall neither be barren or unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.”

Then in verses 10-11: “Wherefore the rather, brethren, give diligence to make your calling and election sure; for if ye do these things, ye shall never fall. [(What do you think will happen if you don’t?). The answer is simply, you will fall – fall from what and fall where?)] For so an entrance shall be ministered unto you abundantly into the everlasting kingdom of our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ.” Could it be that this “entrance” into the “age-lasting” kingdom of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ be taken from us.

Wow! This is the bottom line isn't it! A spiritual Christian is one who puts others first, and thus, willbe warmly received in the Millennial Kingdom of Christ.

Heb 4:14:1 Let us therefore fear, lest, a promise being left us of entering into his rest, any of you should seem to come short of it.

KJV

FOLLOWER OF CHRIST - HOW FAR?

2008-06-06T06:58:00.000-07:00

WHAT IS A TRUE DISCIPLE?

The word disciple, simply mean learner, student or follower. And there are different kinds of students, learners and followers.

Jesus on the night of the Last Supper made a statement that caught the attention of the disciples:
Matt 26:20-22

20 Now when the even was come, he sat down with the twelve.

21 And as they did eat, he said, Verily I say unto you, that one of you shall betray me.

22 And they were exceeding sorrowful, and began every one of them to say unto him, Lord, is it I?
KJV

The important thing here was not so much the Lord’s betrayal as was the disciple’s response. They were exceedingly sorrowful and each began to ask, “Lord is it I?” At this point however, Judas was not the likely candidate to betray the Lord, from this side of history it would more likely be Peter; he was the one that ultimately denied the Lord.
Matt 26:34-35

34 Jesus said unto him, Verily I say unto thee, That this night, before the cock crow, thou shalt deny me thrice.

35 Peter said unto him, Though I should die with thee, yet will I not deny thee. Likewise also said all the disciples.
KJV

But it would be of interest to note that Judas was one of the “twelve” that was actively involved in carrying out the work of the ministry like the other eleven.
Matt 10:5-8

5 These twelve Jesus sent forth, and commanded them, saying, Go not into the way of the Gentiles, and into any city of the Samaritans enter ye not:

6 But go rather to the lost sheep of the house of Israel.

7 And as ye go, preach, saying, The kingdom of heaven is at hand.

8 Heal the sick, cleanse the lepers, raise the dead, cast out devils: freely ye have received, freely give.
KJV

Judas went and preached “the kingdom of heaven is at hand,” Judas went and “healed the sick,” Judas went and “cleanse the lepers,” Judas “raised the dead,” Judas “cast out devils,” Judas “freely gave.” Who could have spotted Judas as one that would betray Jesus? Judas was eternally saved, heard the message of the kingdom and performed signs, wonders and miracles in relation to it. Yet despite this, Judas betrayed Jesus. Why?
Matt 26:14-15

14 Then one of the twelve, called Judas Iscariot, went unto the chief priests,

15 And said unto them, What will ye give me, and I will deliver him unto you? And they covenanted with him for thirty pieces of silver.
KJV

All that happed here is that Judas was more mindful of the things of men than he was the things of God, [a mind full-of]. In very simple terms, “what is the difference between a ‘true disciple’ and a false?” – What his mind is “full – of”.

Look at the Lord’s comments relating to His betrayal:
Matt 26:23-24

23 And he answered and said, He that dippeth his hand with me in the dish, the same shall betray me.

24 The Son of man goeth as it is written of him: but woe unto that man by whom the Son of man is betrayed! it had been good for that man if he had not been born.
KJV

Many interpret verse 24 to be in reference to eternal destiny, this could not be the case; it has to be in reference to Millennial Kingdom – all the disciples were being warned the very same way. All believers, will stand before Christ at the Judgment Seat and give account for the things they do, Judas one day will. The writer of the Hebrews issued a warning to believers that it would do us well to heed:
Heb 10:26-27, 31

26 For if we sin wilfully after that we have received the knowledge of the truth, there remaineth no more sacrifice for sins,

27 But a certain fearful looking for of judgment and fiery indignation, which shall devour the adversaries…….

31 It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God.
KJV

What we need to see here is that Judas was not a lost person, not was he inherently more evil than anyone else; nor was he demonically possessed. Every Christian including you and I have the potential to be just like Judas. Most of us would like to deny that but be let’s be honest with ourselves, because God knows our hearts.

Peter denied the Lord three times, not a lost person but one that appeared with Christ on the Mount of Transfiguration.

Luke 22:59-62

59 And about the space of one hour after another confidently affirmed, saying, Of a truth this fellow also was with him: for he is a Galilaean.

60 And Peter said, Man, I know not what thou sayest. And immediately, while he yet spake, the cock crew.

61 And the Lord turned, and looked upon Peter. And Peter remembered the word of the Lord, how he had said unto him, Before the cock crow, thou shalt deny me thrice.

62 And Peter went out, and wept bitterly.
KJV

Here is a most poignant picture of events that will take place at the Judgment Seat for those that denies Christ:
Matt 10:32-33

32 Whosoever therefore shall confess me before men, him will I confess also before my Father which is in heaven.

33 But whosoever shall deny me before men, him will I also deny before my Father which is in heaven.
KJV

The Lord gives commentary on the same subject in Revelation:
Rev 3:5

5 He that overcometh, the same shall be clothed in white raiment; and I will not blot out his name out of the book of life, but I will confess his name before my Father, and before his angels.
KJV

We see the Lord turning around and looking at Peter – remember His eyes like a flame of fire – then Peter leaving the lighted courtyard – going into darkness outside and weeping bitterly in realization of what he had done. When I see that I am compelled to consider Matthew 25:30.
Matt 25:30

30 And cast ye the unprofitable servant into outer darkness: there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth.
KJV

What reason do we have here for Peter’s denial of the Lord and the distraction of the other disciples? They at this point had a greater fear of man than of God. They were more “mind-full” of the things of men, than the things of God.

Being a true disciple indicates that a life action is accompanying the man’s belief. A true disciple is one that not only follows Christ, but one who obeys what he hears. He proclaims the message of Christ, while at the same time shows forth His Life:
Gal 5:25

25 If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit.
KJV

GOD'S LOVE THROUGH US

2008-06-05T05:27:00.000-07:00

THE SIGN OF GOD’S EMPOWERING – LOVE

Love is the confirming sign that we have been empowered by God’s Spirit. It is the ultimate “fruit” (the highest good deed)! It is gold! John 13:35 vindicates this:
John 13:35

35 By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love [Agape] one to another.
KJV

Agape is the “sign” that the sanctification process (seeking for the salvation of the soul) is working. As in 1 Corinthians 13:2 it says, “If we have not Agape, we are nothing.” A believer filled with God’s love has exchanged life with Christ. He has partaken of and is sharing Christ’s abundant Life. And, he is learning to overcome (seeking for the salvation of his soul).

Agape Love is the greatest gift of all! (1 Corinthians 13:13).

God wants His Agape Love to operate in every segment of our lives. He says that all of his commandments will be fulfilled in just one word – Love which is the governing law of grace. But, again, the process of sanctification is the only thing that will produce this kind of Love in our lives.

Then, 1 John 4:17 tells us that “we can have boldness in the day of judgment, because as He is [Agape], so are we in this world.”

Those that genuinely love God and love others will inherit the kingdom. These are the ones who have acquired “righteous deeds” (fruit) done by the power of the Holy Spirit in them. The will not only be approved at the judgment seat of Christ, but they will have on the appropriate wedding garment to qualify them for the marriage festivities.

To sum it all up: The salvation of the spirit – our being born again – is only the beginning. This must be followed by the salvation of the soul – being sanctified – which is what matters at the judgment seat of Christ. The Christian walk, that lifelong process of change called sanctification, implemented by God’s resurrection power and shown forth by His Love; that will eventually lead to the salvation of the body - when we see Christ.
Eph 3:20

20 Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us,
KJV

FORSAKEN ALL FOR THE KINGDOM

2008-06-04T05:35:00.000-07:00

WE HAVE FORSAKEN ALL (Matthew 19:16-26)

This thought is echoed in Matthew where Jesus tells His disciples how difficult it is for a “rich man to enter the kingdom of heaven.” He tells them that in order to enter the kingdom, they must “go and sell all they have, give to the poor and come and follow Him.” In other words, give up everything for Him (v. 21).

The disciples were floored and asked Him, “Who then can be saved?” Jesus responds, “With men this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.”

Then Peter says to the Lord, “Behold, we have forsaken all, and followed Thee. What shall we have, therefore?”

Whereupon Jesus answers, “Verily I say unto you that ye who have followed Me, in the regeneration [next life], when the Son of man shall sit on the Throne of His glory, ye shall also sit upon twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel. And everyone that hath forsaken houses, or brethren, or sisters, or fathers or mother, or wife or children, or lands for My sake, shall receive an hundredfold, and shall inherit everlasting life [age lasting life].

But then He adds, “Many that are first [here] shall be last [there]; and the last [here] shall be first [there].”

Jesus is just reiterating what He says in verse 21: that in order to receive true abundant life, we must be willing to surrender anything and everything that stands in the way of God’s Spirit working freely through us. Then, and only then, will we inherit the blessings of the future kingdom.

Surely, this is the reason why so many Christians are powerless today. When we loose the ability to surrender ourselves, we also loose our power for they are interrelated. If we try to live Christ’s life for Him rather than relinquish ourselves totally and let Him live His life out through us, then we not only won’t have His power, we also won’t have His life. The reverse is also true. The more we surrender ourselves to Him, the more we'll be conformed into His image and the more we’ll have His power.

Remember, the term “Christianity” is simply the manifestation of divine power in the presence of human weakness.

2 Timothy 3:2 tells us that one of the reasons these “last days” just before Christ returns will be so difficult is because “men will be lovers of themselves….boastful, proud and unholy.” Their heart’s motivation is wrong. They are not serving God and depending upon the power of the Holy Spirit; rather, they are working for their own benefit and their own glory.

Matt 7:22-23

22 Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works?

23 And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity.
KJV

Unless we let the power of God’s Spirit freely point out the ungodly deeds of our soul and body, the truth we possess in our heads will just remain a theory. And we won’t be able to genuinely teach any of these principles to others. We can only give out what we ourselves possess.

The Lord must first break down our outward man, which is often accomplished by discipline or chastisement from the Holy Spirit. Next, He must point out the things in our soul that need to be surrendered which is accomplished by personal revelation. And finally, He transforms our soul and body by filling them with His life and His power. This, again, is what the sanctification process is all about. Seeking for the salvation of our souls and receiving age lasting life in the kingdom.

THAT I MAY KNOW HIM...

2008-06-02T05:12:00.000-07:00

PERSONALLY KNOWING THE POWER OF HIS RESURRECTION

Phil 3:10

10 That I may know him, and the power of his resurrection, and the fellowship of his sufferings, being made conformable unto his death;
KJV

All of this raises a couple of questions: Where is the power of God among Christians today? And what are we doing wrong that we have missed it?

To answer these questions, we must understand that Christians can have three different kinds of “knowledge”: Firstly, we can have head knowledge of the Scriptures which is good and great, but it really doesn’t help much with real life, unless that knowledge is coupled with God’s power to perform His will in our lives. Secondly, we have experiential knowledge of the power of God. And, again, that’s good and great, but without an understanding of what God’s will is as stated in His Word; there is no way to know if what we are doing is right. [Matthew 6:10 and Luke 11:2 are the two passages in Scripture that tells us what God’s will is]
Matt 6:10

10 Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.
KJV

Luke 11:2

2 And he said unto them, When ye pray, say, Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done, as in heaven, so in earth.
KJV

That explains why we are admonished in Matt. 6:33 to seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness…..

And thirdly, we can have both knowledge of God’s will and experiential knowledge of His power to perform that will in our lives which is the ultimate goal and God’s purpose for us. Be reminded that His purpose given in Gen. 1:26, 28 is to have dominion (in His kingdom).

We must not only intimately know Christ, but also know the power of His resurrection. This is the power to cancel our past, the power to conquer our present problems and the power to change our future. Then, we’ll be able to overcome the world, the flesh, and the evil one, proclaim the message of Christ and have the assurance of a place in the future kingdom.

The resurrection power of God is a steady flow of energy that is not dependent upon our own understanding, our own emotions or our circumstances, but simply upon our choice to believe God’s Word and, then, trust Him to implement that Word in our lives.

The answer to the above questions then – Where is the power of God among Christians these days? And, what are we doing wrong that we are missing it? – Just like God’s love, His resurrection power is quenched among many Christians today because they have chosen to hang on to their own sin and self, rather than confess and repent of it and lay it at the Cross. There are others who have been stuck in the rut of their traditions (thinking they understand the Word, when in fact, they miss what God is saying). God’s dunamis power is still in their hearts, but like God’s love, it’s unable to come forth in their lives because that is what Satan really wants. Once we come to a mature knowledge of the Word all this will change.

THE POWER OF GOD - Part 3

2008-05-29T08:55:00.000-07:00

THREE ASPECTS OF GOD’S POWER

There are three aspects or elements or components that make up God’s supernatural power in us.
His Dunamis power (which we receive in our spirit when we are born again).
His Kratos might (which mainly operates in our soul).
His Ischus strength (which mainly operates in our bodies).

The following Scriptures refer to all three of these elements of God’s power in the same verse:
Eph 1:19

19 And what is the exceeding greatness of his power [dunamis] to usward who believe, according to the working of his mighty [kratos] power [ischus],
KJV

Eph 6:10-11

10 Finally, my brethren, be strong [endunamoo] in the Lord, and in the power [dunamis] of his might [ischus].

11 Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.
KJV

Col 1:11

11 Strengthened [dunamoo] with all might [ischus], according to his glorious power [dunamis], unto all patience and longsuffering with joyfulness;
KJV

The different Greek words can be a little confusing unless we understand the simple meanings behind each one. In the English language, we often are quite sloppy with our use of words. For example, we say “I love my husband/wife.” Then we use the very same word to describe our fondness for desserts: “I love ice cream!” The Greek language is much more precise. It has specific words to describe each of the above emotions. This is what we are encountering here. Once you understand the meaning of each of these words for power, it makes total sense. And, prayerfully, it will help you have more understanding of the importance of God’s power in your life.

Resurrection Power – Dunamis (Strong’s #1411) (in our spirit and heart)

The Greek word most often used in the Bible for the supernatural power of God is the word dunamis (Strong’s #1411). Dunamis means divine ability, inherent power, the power belonging to the essential nature of something. It means to have the capacity to carry something out; the strength to implement the idea; to take a thought and make it an action. It’s power to make strong or forceful or mighty. In the English language, it led to the term “dynamite.”

Dunamis is God’s power and His ability residing in us; it’s His inherent power to carry something out. Hebrews 6:5 tells us it’s the power of the world to come.

God’s dunamis power gives us the supernatural ability to overcome the world, the flesh and the devil. It’s the only power that can break the power of sin, the power of the devil and the power of death. Suffice to say, dunamis is divine empowerment. In other words, dunamis almost always points to a new and higher force that has entered us and is now working through us. Again, this is God’s “treasure” in earthen vessels (2 Cor. 4:6, 7).

When we become born again, we receive God’s dunamis power in our spirit. At this time God’s Holy Spirit unites with our spirit. However, His dunamis power cannot be released until our own spirit and heart are cleansed (Ps. 51:10). In other words, God does not give supernatural power to the “old man,” only to the “new one.” Therefore, one of the reasons we lack power in the Christian body is because God’s Spirit in us has been quenched or blocked. Rather than cleanse ourselves from the “flesh,” we often chose to follow our own self-centered ways. If this is the case, not only will God’s love be blocked in our hearts, but His resurrection power will also be unable to operate. Thus, at this moment, we will not be partakers of His nature.

Might - Kratos (Strong’s #2904) (in our soul)

The second aspect or element of God’s power in the Greek is kratos – an absolutely fascinating Greek word.

Kratos means “mastery over self,” self-control or power to rein in (like the reins of a horse) – it literally means “to rein in.” God’s kratos power reigns in our “self-life” (our soulish life) and brings it into captivity so that “God’s life” (from our hearts) can come forth. Luke 21:19 says, “…in your patience rein in your souls.” Reins are often associated with our mind and our choice: “reins or cords of Love” which are held by the Lord or “reins or cords of sin” which are held by our own “flesh” and even sometimes the enemy.

Kratos is power to “put off” our sin and self and then power to “put on” Christ. It’s God’s power to perform His will. It is often associated with the Greek word “authority” (exousia). God supernaturally gives us the authority not only to choose His will, but also the power to perform that will! What good is it to know God’s will if we don’t have the strength or power to carry it out?
Phil 2:13

13 For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure.
KJV

It is actually saying that we choose by faith to do God’s will, and He then enables us to accomplish His will, regardless of how we feel. He gives us supernatural kratos to set aside “self” and to act out of His love and His wisdom.

Kratos is “Spirit-control,” the power to exercise our free choice, knowing that in His timing and way, God will change our emotions and thoughts to match the faith choice we have made. Humanly, this is completely impossible, but with God’s power it is. Naturally, we are unable to change our own negative thoughts and emotions, especially in a trial. However, this is the very time we must choose by faith to put in charge the Person who can change our natural feelings and thoughts, and that, of course, is God and His Spirit of power.

Kratos is God’s supernatural might to take what He has told us in His Word and implement it in our lives, no matter how we feel. We must make the choice, but then the “kratos might” of God will help us set aside the natural strength of our soul and accomplish with He desires in our lives.

For us to become “overcomers” we have to allow kratos to work in our lives. An overcomer is simply one who is free from self to serve God, one who has faith to appropriate the kratos might of the Lord in order to conquer sin, self and the devil (1 John 5:4). These are those that are willing to choose God’s will regardless of how they feel or what they think, and then trust His power to perform that will in their lives.

Kratos then is God’s power in action. This kind of power is applied by and implemented through a “faith choice” a choice we make by faith, not feelings, to do what God has said, regardless of how we feel, what we think or want. By being a cleansed vessel and praying “not my will, but Thine,” the kratos power of God can overcome whatever our flesh naturally wants and instead, enables us to do what God wants.

Strength Ischus (Strong’s #2479) (in our body)

This is the final of the three elements of God’s power, the ischus in the Greek. This is the visible power or the expressed strength and ability that God bestows upon us. Kratos and ischus often go together. God gives us the ability to choose His will (kratos) and then the ability and the strength to perform that will in our lives (ischus).

Mark 12:30

30 And thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind, and with all thy strength [ischus]: this is the first commandment.
KJV

God has provided the necessary power to do His bidding, let us “let go and let God” work through us.

THE POWER OF GOD - Part 2

2008-05-28T05:50:00.000-07:00

GOD’S RESURRECTION POWER

Before we became believers, God’s Spirit of Power works with us (para), leading and drawing us to Himself:
Acts 19:2

2 He said unto them, Have ye received the Holy Ghost since ye believed? And they said unto him, We have not so much as heard whether there be any Holy Ghost.
KJV

In response to our personal invitation, God’s Spirit of power comes in us (en) and indwells us. He unites our spirits with His and gives us a brand “new” spirit and heart. This is called “the new birth,” being “born again” or “justification.” At this time, Christ implants us with His Life-His Love, His wisdom and His power-in our spirits and hearts, and we become the temple of the Holy Spirit.

In response to our asking, the Spirit comes upon us (epi) for the sake of empowering us. This is called “the baptism of the Spirit” or the infilling of the Spirit:
Acts 1:8

8 But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.
KJV

Here the words of Jesus to His disciples:
Luke 24:49

49 And, behold, I send the promise of my Father upon you: but tarry ye in the city of Jerusalem, until ye be endued with power from on high.
KJV

Matt 3:11

11 I indeed baptize you with water unto repentance: but he that cometh after me is mightier than I, whose shoes I am not worthy to bear: he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost, and with fire:
KJV

Acts 1:5

5 For John truly baptized with water; but ye shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost not many days hence.
KJV

The baptism of the spirit is God breaking through our “soulish” and physical realm. It is the beginning of our “outer man” (our soul) being subjected to our “spirit man” (our spirit). It’s the power to become a genuine witness of Christ, not just in our words, but also in our lives. Without this empowering, we will be just like the believers in 2 Timothy 3:5 who had a “form of godliness,” but who “denied the power within.” These were Christians who knew the Scriptures in their heads, but they did not use the power God gave them to transform their lives.

(Both of the above, the indwelling and the empowering, should happen at the same time. But, for many of us, they occurred on separate occasions.)

Then we must be daily refilled (pleroo) with God’s Spirit of power from the inside out.
Eph 5:17-18

17 Wherefore be ye not unwise, but understanding what the will of the Lord is.

18 And be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess; but be filled with the Spirit;
KJV

The verb “be filled” here means to be continually filled and empowered. This step differs from the first two steps in that it’s now our own responsibility to stay cleansed, refilled, and empowered.

This last step is the beginning of the process called “sanctification” and the Bible calls, “the saving of the soul.” This soulical part of man will constantly have to be worked at until the day we are taken out of this life. This is what we will realize or fail to realize at the judgment seat of Christ – the salvation or loss of our souls. Our job is to make the right faith choices, and stay open and cleansed vessels so God can do the changing. He is the One who judges us, purifies us, strengthens us, trains us, and then teaches us how to walk.
2 Cor 7:2
7:1 Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.
KJV

Consequently, it is imperative that we not stop at the first step of salvation or justification (sorry to say most Christians stop there); but we continue in the process to the saving of our souls.
1 Peter 1:9

9 Receiving the end of your faith, even the salvation of your souls.
KJV

Galatians 5:25 explains: “If we live in the Spirit [if we are born again], we must also [learn to] walk in the Spirit.”
Eph 5:18

18 And be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess; but be filled with the Spirit;
KJV

It’s the Spirit of Christ’s resurrection power that renews our minds, that transforms our lives, and teaches us to become overcomers.
So first the Spirit brings us to Christ and gives us His Life, and then He wants to empower us so we can reflect Him in all we do. Listen to the words of the apostle Paul:
2 Cor 4:7-10

7 But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us.

8 We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair;

9 Persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed;

10 Always bearing about in the body the dying of the Lord Jesus, that the life also of Jesus might be made manifest in our body.
KJV

GOD'S DIVINE POWER

2008-05-27T05:13:00.000-07:00

THE POWER OF GOD

Personal union with Christ gives believers divine power.
2 Peter 1:3

3 According as his divine power hath given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness, through the knowledge of him that hath called us to glory and virtue:
KJV

And as we live for Christ in a way that’s pleasing to Him, our experiences are even greater.
Heb 6:5

5 And have tasted the good word of God, and the powers of the world to come,
KJV

This saving power of Christ will deliver us from the power of sin, from the draw of the world and from the influences of the devil. All the above, however, rest heavily on whether or not we are in the Word on a regular basis. (Sin will keep us from the Word, but the Word will also keep us from sin).

This overcoming power protects us, preserves us, guides us and keeps us from falling:
Ps 138:3

3 In the day when I cried thou answeredst me, and strengthenedst me with strength in my soul.
KJV
This is the same as the apostle Paul referred to as the “power of His resurrection.”
Phil 3:10

10 That I may know him, and the power of his resurrection, and the fellowship of his sufferings, being made conformable unto his death;
KJV

God’s resurrection power not only strengthens us, it enables us and keeps us. God imparts His resurrection power to each of us the moment we believed so that we, too, can overcome the enemy, proclaim the message of the gospel and persevere to the end. We must learn to walk in the Spirit, not our flesh. Christ must be the power source of our lives, or everything we do will end up being “wood, hay, and stubble.”
Acts 1:8

8 But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.
KJV

LIVING THE ABUNDANT CHRISTIAN LIFE

2008-05-26T07:16:00.000-07:00

GIVING OUR LIVES TOTALLY TO CHRIST

It is natural for the average Christian to tell you that his or her life is totally surrendered to Christ, but is that really true?

The Scripture says we ought to see that which occurred in the lives of the children of Israel that was taken out of Egypt and understand that the same thing will happen to us if we take the path they took. Remember the purpose God took them out of Egypt was to inherit the land promised to them, Canaan. So we are saved from the world of sin (Egypt), to inherit the kingdom promised to us and this Christian walk for us is exactly what the walk through the wilderness was for the children of Israel. We might want to pay special attention then to the warning of Hebrews 4:1.

1 Cor 10:5

5 But with many of them God was not well pleased: for they were overthrown in the wilderness.
KJV

1 Cor 10:11

11 Now all these things happened unto them for ensamples: and they are written for our admonition, upon whom the ends of the world are come.
KJV

It is interesting to realize that if we are going to be honest, for most of us Christians; God has only a part of our lives there are some things that we hold on to and try to control on our own. That is in no way an indication that we are not genuinely born again. The apostle Peter in Matthew 16 was genuinely saved when he aligned himself with Satan rather than the things of God and Jesus had to reprimand him:

Matt 16:23
…..Get thee behind me, Satan: thou art an offence unto me: for thou savourest not the things that be of God, but those that be of men.
KJV

God is not satisfied with just indwelling us, (as He does the moment we trusted Christ); but He wants to be the controller or our lives, He wants to shine His light through us, He wants to love His love through us. The way this happens is for us to completely surrender our lives to Him so He can give us His own; He doesn’t just want to be "a part" of our lives, He wants to be our very life itself:

Phil 1:20-21
………so now also Christ shall be magnified in my body, whether it be by life, or by death.

21 For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain.
KJV

God wants us to know and to experience His unconditional Love, not only for ourselves, but to pass on to others. He wants us to have His own supernatural Wisdom and discernment, so we can know when and how to love wisely. And He also wants us to have His supernatural Power and ability so we can live the Christian life as we are supposed to. In other words, God wants us to know and to intimately experience His own abundant Life.

However, it has to be our own choice to seek and to have this kind of life; until that time God will continue to be just “a part” of our lives. Quite often, because He loves us so much, He helps us along with our decisions by allowing situations into our lives that we, in our own strength, cannot handle or control. He cares for us too much to allow us to remain stagnant. He therefore, “corners” us, hoping that we will finally quit going our own way and choose to go His way. If some of His biddings are occurring in our lives, (I mean some of those that might not even be pleasant), it might be time to “let-go-and-let-God.” Remember the words of the prophet Ezekiel to the children of Israel?

Ezek 18:24-25

24 But when the righteous turneth away from his righteousness, and committeth iniquity, and doeth according to all the abominations that the wicked man doeth, shall he live? All his righteousness that he hath done shall not be mentioned: in his trespass that he hath trespassed, and in his sin that he hath sinned, in them shall he die.

25 Yet ye say, The way of the Lord is not equal. Hear now, O house of Israel; Is not my way equal? are not your ways unequal?
KJV

You don’t understand what God is allowing in your life? Often I don’t understand what He is doing in mine either and I am sure there are many others like us.

Isa 55:9

9 For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts.
KJV

We just need to stop and ask the Lord to search our hearts and try us and see if there be any wicked ways in us; and cleanse us from every sin.

Heb 10:26-27, 31

26 For if we sin wilfully after that we have received the knowledge of the truth, there remaineth no more sacrifice for sins,

27 But a certain fearful looking for of judgment and fiery indignation, which shall devour the adversaries.

31 It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God.
KJV

WHO ARE OVERCOMERS Part 3

2008-05-21T05:19:00.000-07:00

THE REMAINDER OF THE SEVEN CHURCHES

The Church at Pergamus (Rev. 2:12-17) is the Church that is married to the world. As God puts it, these are the ones that “dwell where Satan’s throne is.” The Church that allows the evil doctrine of Balaam and the doctrine of the Nicolatians to come in:

Jude 11

11 Woe unto them! for they have gone in the way of Cain, and ran greedily after the error of Balaam for reward, and perished in the gainsaying of Core.
KJV

Many of our modern Churches fit perfectly right in this category.

God’s promise to the faithful overcomer in this Church is that they would eat of the hidden manna and receive a white stone, (a victory stone for Christians whose works endure the fire of 1 Cor. 3:11-15). This stone will have a new name written on it which no one knows, except the one who receives it (Rev. 2:17).

The Church at Thyatira (Rev. 2:18-29) represents the orthodox Church where the evil spirit of Jezebel was allowed to reign. It is important to read about Jezebel, the patron of Baal worship, in 1 Kings 16:30-34 and 21:25 because in the end times, this spirit is said to return. As John phrases it, this Church hit the “depths of Satan.” The spirit of Jezebel’s goal was to seduce God’s faithful servants into disobedience and fornication. In verse 22 of Revelation 2, it says that God is going to cast Jezebel and her followers into the great tribulation unless they repent. [This tribulation could well be them being excluded from Christ’s presence in Gizrah – “the separate place”].

God’s promise to the faithful and obedient overcomer in the Church at Thyatira is that they will have authority (exousia in the Greek) over the nations and rule them with a rod of iron. They shall also receive the “morning star.” (This probably means they will have a special relationship with Jesus Himself [Rev. 22:16]). The overcomers will be “white robed” (Rev. 19:8), they will shine like the Lord, reflecting His brightness and glory (Matt. 17:2).

The Church at Sardis (Rev. 3:1-6) represents those in the denominational Church who say they are alive, but who are really dead. The Spirit tells them that if they don’t wake up, He is going to come “like a thief in the night” and they won’t even know it. There “name” says they are alive, but in reality they are dead.

There is nothing good said about Sardis.

God’s promise to the faithful and obedient overcomer in this Church is that he will be clothe in white raiment, which symbolizes righteous act of the saints (Rev. 19:8). Listen to verse four:

Rev 3:4

4 Thou hast a few names even in Sardis which have not defiled their garments; and they shall walk with me in white: for they are worthy.
KJV

White robes have to do with the wedding garment that all Christians are now preparing to wear (Rev. 19:7), these white robes (symbolized by the righteous acts of the saints) are not by the flesh but by the Spirit of God.

God promised the overcomer in Rev. 3:5 that He will not blot his name out of the book of life. This is an issue that many theologians grapple with over the centuries. If one accepts kingdom exclusion (being placed in Gizrah – “the separate place”), then it will be very logical that these are the ones mentioned in Rev. 20:15. [Their names were blotted out for the thousand years]. These are those that came short of the “promise” of Hebrews 4:1.

The Church at Philadelphia (Rev. 3:7-13) represents the raptured Church (the caught-up to heaven Church) and the one many of us want to be associated with (1 Thess. 4:17). Philadelphia is the Church that has the “key of David,” and “he that openeth, and no man shutteth; and shutteth, and no man openeth.” This is similar to the “keys of the kingdom” Matt. 16:19 and 18:18 in the sense that they are both delivering the same message. Matthew, however, presents God dealing with the house of Israel in relation to the kingdom of the heavens, with the house ultimately being left “desolate” because of the nation’s rejection (Matt. 23:2, 13, 38); and Matthew also anticipates God dealing with a house separate and distinct from Israel in relation to the kingdom of the heavens (Matt. 16:18, 19; 24:40-25:30). The “key of David” and the “key to the kingdom” is the “message of the kingdom” that both David and Peter understood and had to teach.

Could it be the message to be taught today? And what if it is and we are not teaching it, would that mean we have not been true to the Word of God? These are thoughts to consider.

The Spirit tells the Church that He knows they have little strength of their own, but He also knows that they have not denied His Name (to deny His Name would disqualify them from the prize). Anyone that is not preaching or practicing the way of the kingdom is denying His Name and will not win the prize. In other words, this Church have faithfully and obediently rested on God’s resurrection power even through the hard times (2 Cor. 13:4).They suffered because of His Name, and because of their faithfulness to keep the “word of His patience,” He will keep them from the very hour of temptation that is to come upon the earth. (Here the hour of temptation that will come upon the earth could well be in reference to that period of exclusion that disobedient, unfaithful Christians will not be kept from). He will also make those who say they are Jews, but are not, to bow at their feet. One of the major surprises at the Judgment Seat of Christ will be many who are “great in the eyes of men” will be humbled and demoted by the Lord, and those that are “despised of men” the Lord will welcome and exalt (Matt. 19:28-30).

God’s promise to the faithful and obedient overcomer in the Church at Philadelphia is that He will make them a pillar in His temple. A pillar in the temple is symbolic of a steadfast figure of strength and durability. Thus, these faithful saints will remain secure and firm in their positions of strength at the Father’s side and enjoy tremendous intimacy with Him. And because of the intimacy, they will not go out of the sanctuary any more. The Lord will also write upon them the Name of God, the name of the city of God (new Jerusalem) and also His own name.

The Church at Laodicea (Rev. 3:14-22) represents the final state of the Church prior to Christ’s return for His bride. From all appearances, that’s exactly where we are today. This is the explanation to the “seeker friendly” Church that we see springing up everyday (come as you are and you don’t have to change, we are not in the business of cleaning fish, we just catch them and God clean them). That is so sad, the Word of God should change people, and it is easy to live in sin and regularly attend most of our Churches today without any form of conviction. Sermons are not preached any more, social talks are given. The music and worship programmes create excitement – it is more entertainment than anything else. The message is so watered down that it does not stimulate any renewed personal commitment of obedience and faithfulness to the Lord. As the Scripture notes, it is “neither hot nor cold.” It is lukewarm! These saints say they are rich and in need of nothing, but in truth, from God’s perspective, they are wretched, miserable, poor, blind and naked. Today’s deadness in Church comes from following the truth only with our minds, not with our hearts or our lives. The Spirit counsels Laodicea to buy from Him gold refined in the fire (works done by the Spirit of God) so they can become rich, and they can be clothe with white raiment so that the shame of their nakedness does not appear. Nakedness means there is no clothes, the clothes of Rev. 19:6, 7.

Unfortunately, there is nothing good said about this Church.

Notice something else interesting here: The Scripture we always hear quoted to the unbelievers:

Rev 3:20

20 Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me.
KJV

To whom is God really speaking? He is definitely speaking to Christians. Yet Christ is on the outside knocking, wanting to come in but is not let in. He is on the outside of most of our Churches today trying to get in and it does not matter what names they call themselves, we are in the Laodicean era.

This Church corresponds to the Epistle of Jude where “a form of godliness” remained in the Church (2 Tim. 3:5). Materialism had so permeated them that the Church was spiritually destitute (Jude 17-19). Christ is on the outside, not within. As we get closer and closer to the end of this dispensation apostasy is prevails. The four parables of Matthew 13, these seven Churches in Revelation, the books of 2 Peter and Jude all speak of this.

God’s promise to the faithful and obedient overcomer in the Laodicean Church is that Christ will let them it with Him on His Throne, just as He overcame and was able to sit down with God the Father on His Throne. In other words, the overcomers in this Church will have a joint participation in the kingdom rule (Rev. 3:21).
The greatest incentive that God has placed in His Word for us to live godly lives is found in these promises to the overcomers. Such glorious promises should stir the heart of every believer and cause us to diligently strive to personally apprehend the

SEEK TO BE AN OVERCOMER

2008-05-18T03:50:00.000-07:00

WHO ARE OVERCOMERS?

All Christians are called to be overcomers, but not all Christians choose to be overcomers.

This present Church age is the period that God has set aside to secure a bride for His Son and the Christians that will make up this “bride” are those who become ‘partakers' of His Life and thus, overcomers. The teaching that you become an overcomer when you became a Christian is not taught in the Scriptures. It is at the Judgment Seat of Christ, at the end of this dispensation that Christians will be judged for their fitness and to know whether or not they are qualified to inherit the Millennial Kingdom; there and only there will each Christian’s response to this privilege be revealed. It is not enough just to be a “Christian” as one has to win the prize of reigning with Christ, it’s not automatic.

Let us examine a few verses to show how Scripture addresses this subject. The first that comes to mind is John’s usages to the Churches in Revelation.

Rev 2:7

7 He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; To him that overcometh will I give to eat of the tree of life, which is in the midst of the paradise of God.
KJV

This was John’s address to the Church at Ephesus which represents the apostolic Church, which endured great hardships. God knew their good works, their labour and patience. These saints were strong in doctrine, but they had forgotten and forsaken the most important thing – their first love, that spiritual intimacy with the Father.

God’s promise to the faithful and obedient overcomer in the Church at Ephesus was that he would eat of the tree of life (the tree of life is synonymous to a special wisdom and knowledge in the future kingdom). The distinction here is between “faithful, obedient” and “unfaithful, disobedient” Christians. This reference does not speak of the salvation of one’s spirit, but an intimacy with the Father to be enjoyed by those found worthy at the judgment seat of Christ.

The saints whose works will be tested by fire, and will come through as “precious stones” as seen in the Apostle Paul’s letter to the Corinthians (1 Cor. 3:11-15); are those who are partakers of Christ during their life time – living His Life – thus, they will be rewarded in the future with a special intimate fellowship with Christ. The disobedient in this Church are the ones who have lost their first love (Rev. 2:4). They will also loose their share of the tree of life in the future kingdom as well. The Spirit even says that He will remove His lampstand (or the light of His presence) from their Church if they do not repent (Rev. 2:5).

Some Christians will be shown at the Judgment Seat to have overcome the world, the flesh and the devil. Others will show to have been overcome by these things. The word “overcome” is a translation of the Greek word nikao, which means to conquer or to gain victory over something. The though inherent in the word is to be victorious in a contest or conflict.

A SEPARATE PLACE FOR THOSE THAT DO NOT OVERCOME

2008-05-16T06:16:00.000-07:00

GIZRAH – THE SEPARATE PLACE

I am doing a study on the Temples and one of the most intriguing parts in Ezekiel’s Temple is the space directly behind (or west of) the Holy of Holies called the Gizrah (Strong’s # 1508) or the “separate place.” (Ezek. 41:12-15; 42:1, 10, 13).

The word gizrah means a separate enclosure or “a separate place.” It’s a place for polishing or making something smooth by friction. It comes from the root word gezer (Strong’s # 1506) which means “a portion cut off” and the primitive root gazar (Strong’s # 1504), which means to exclude. Gizrah is used eight times in the Bible: seven in reference to the Temple in Ezekiel chapter 41 and 42, and once in reference to the polishing of a godly sect in Lamentations 4:7.

The Gizrah is a “separate place” for cutting and polishing in order to produce a refined and magnificent finish. [According to the Jewish Encyclopedia, Marriage, pg. 342]. - “If the word gizrah contained an ayin then the second raw would have a negative connotation; but it does not, therefore, this space has some mysterious but beneficial purpose.”

Again, the wall of separation between the sanctuary itself and the Gizrah was very visible (Ezek. 42:20). It emphasized the separation of the holy and the common.

These walls of separation were intended for human instruction. It was God’s divine intention. The Gizrah was a place where everything that was rejected or excluded from the worship service was kept. It was an unsanctified area; separate from the sanctified region.

In Ezek. 42:20, the Gizrah is called “the profane place.” (Strong’s #2455, Chol) which means ‘expose’ and ‘common’, opposed to ‘sanctified’ and ‘holy’. Chol is from the root word chalal (Strong’s #2490), which means to break one’s word, to defile, to pollute or to defile one’s inheritance. Wow! That should be enlightening.

Could this be the “separate place” into which the unsanctified and disobedient believers that have not overcome but are overcome are “cast,” while the rest of the body of Christ enjoys fellowship with the Lord in some other room? Could this gizrah possibly be the place that is called “the outer darkness” or the “darkness outside” that is spoken of in the three Matthew parables? This darkness, remember, is just beyond the brilliant light of Christ’s presence in the sanctuary.

The Gizrah is a real place in Ezekiel’s Temple. But what its function actually is, scholars have debated for years. I therefore suggest, like the saints at Berea; you search the Scriptures and see what the Lord shows you.

Acts 17:11

11 These were more noble than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so.
KJV

Remember that Ezekiel’s prophecy is giving us a blue print of the Millennial Temple which in itself is a “separation,” a place apart. The Gizrah was a separate place for things that had become ritually unclean and unholy. According to Messiah’s Coming Temple, pg. 98: by John W. Schmitt: These things had to be separated, so that “such items may later be cleansed and restored.”

God’s purpose in judgment is often to provide redemption.

Ps 49:15

15 But God will redeem me from the power of Sheol (the place of the dead); for He will receive me. Selah [pause, and calmly think of that]!
AMP

Probably God will use the thousand years of the Millennium to restore and renew those that did not make it into the kingdom and bring them back to holiness.

Rev 21:3-4

3 And I heard a great voice out of heaven saying, Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, and he will dwell with them, and they shall be his people, and God himself shall be with them, and be their God.

4 And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away.
KJV

The National Spelling Bee contest of the United States, recently gave the word “genizah” as one of the words in the contest. They explained that it was a Hebrew word and it came from the root word gezrah. The definition that they gave for genizah was: “a strong room where the priests of the temple kept damaged, but sacred objects. How interesting!”

I believe this is the explanation to the “Five Foolish Virgins” (where they ended up) [Matt. 25:1-13], the ‘guest’ [Matt. 22:1-14], the “unfaithful servant” [Matt. 24:45-51] and [Luke 12:41-46].

Let us “watch” and “be ready” as Christians, for the return of Christ.

SUMMARY OF THE PARABLES Pt. 2

2008-05-15T06:09:00.000-07:00

THE PARABLE OF THE HIDDEN TREASURE AND THE PEARL
OF GREAT PRICE (Matt. 13:44-46)

The parables of the hidden treasure and the valuable pearl seem to illustrate the good response of two kinds of individuals. In the former, a man unexpectedly heard the word of the kingdom and realized it was a great treasure. Nathaniel is an example of this kind of hearer (John 1:44-50). In the latter, a man was seeking for something, and when he heard the word of the kingdom, he recognized it as valuable. Cornelius illustrates this kind of hearer (Acts 10:1-11:18); he was unsaved until Peter brought the message (11:14). In both parables the hearers joyfully sold all because they realized the value of the treasure (which represents the kingdom).

THE PARABLE OF THE NET (Matt. 13:47-50)

The primary teaching of the parable of the net is that at the end of the age there will be a judgment, the same one spoken of in the parable of the tares, at which time the wicked who will be living at the time of Christ’s second coming will be judged. In the Olivet discourse Jesus gives more details (Matt. 25:31-46).

The kingdom will come after the execution of judgment on the world, and the wicked will be cast into a furnace of fire. Matthew 25:46 says this is an “everlasting punishment,” (a more accurate translation of the Greet word aioonoin would be ‘age lasting’ in stead of ‘everlasting’ would be “age lasting”). Revelation 19:20 calls it “a lake of fire burning with brimstone.”

THE PARABLE OF THE HOUSEHOLDER (Matt. 13:51-52)

Jesus taught that a scribe who is a disciple of the kingdom and a student of the Scripture will take the prophecies concerning the kingdom from the Old Testament and add to them the new things revealed in these parables, and the new things will supplement the Old Testament prophecy.

In these parables Jesus revealed for the first time that there would be a delay between the time the kingdom was first offered and the time it will be set up. This delay is caused by the rejection of the King.

McClain summarizes in his commentary, pg 441; the teachings of the parables in relation to the present age:

What is certain in the teaching of these different parables is that the present age, viewed from the standpoint of the kingdom, is a time of preparation. During this period the Son of man is sowing seed (v.37), generating and developing a spiritual nucleus for the future kingdom, a group called “sons of the kingdom” (v.38 ASV). At the same time He is permitting a parallel development of evil in the world under the leadership of Satan (vs. 38-39). It is the purpose of God to bring both to a “harvest,” when the good and bad will be separated, and then to establish the Kingdom in power and righteousness (vs. 41-43, 49)….The absence in Matthew 13 of any mention of the Greek – ekklesia, or of its pre tribulation Rapture, is not strange; for such mention at this point would be completely unhistorical in the progress of divine revelation. That however, is not to an argument to suggest that this is not a judgment for saved people; for nowhere in Scripture are the saved and unsaved judged together. Both groups are saved, just some “good” saved people and some “bad” saved people.

Remember Paul speaking to the Christians at Corinth and including himself?

2 Cor 5:10

10 For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ; that every one may receive the things done in his body, according to that he hath done, whether it be good or bad.
KJV

THE KINGDOM OF HEAVEN IS LIKEN UNTO....

2008-05-14T05:40:00.000-07:00

A SUMMARY OF THE PARABLES

PARABLE OF THE SOWER (Matt. 13:3-23)

Jesus Himself interpreted the parable of the sower saying that the word that was sown is the “word of the kingdom” (Matt. 13:19). Then He gave the different responses that it received. Satan prevented some from responding, while others allowed the cares of the world, the deceitfulness of riches, the pleasures of this life, or the lust of other things choke the word so it became unfruitful. But the word was fruitful in a small minority.

PARABLE OF THE SEED (Mark 4:26-29)

Only Mark records the short parable of the seed which demonstrated how the word of the kingdom of God would be received. Like a seed, it was planted by John the Baptist, Jesus and the disciples; but it did not bring forth an immediate response of the literal kingdom. When a seed is planted in a garden, it may appear to be dead for it is hid from sight, but after a period of time, when conditions are right, it will germinate and break through the soul, gradually developing until it ripens. The simple teaching of the parable is that after the word of the kingdom is proclaimed there will be a period of time before there are any visible responses but it will grow to maturity as prophesied.

PARABLE OF THE TARES (Matt. 13:24-30; 36-43)

Charles Ryrie points out that, except for the first, each of the seven kingdom of heavens parables begins with the phrase, “The kingdom of heaven is like,” He says, “Literally, “The kingdom of the heavens became like unto…” in his book: The Basis of the Pre- millennial Faith, pg. 94. The status of the kingdom had changed. Jesus the Messiah-King, had offered the kingdom to Israel. John the Baptist, Jesus and Jesus’ disciples had been preaching that the kingdom of heaven was at hand, and now, because of rejection, its present status is illustrated in parables.

Jesus identifying Himself as the One who sows the good seed, says the field is the world, the devil sows the bad seed, the harvest is the end of the age, and the angels will be executors of this judgment. The good seed is the sons of the kingdom, the ones who will inherit it. The wicked will be removed and judged; their judgment is explained in more detail in the other parables and in the Olivet discourse.

PARABLES OF THE MUSTARD SEED AND THE LEAVEN (Mark 4:30-32; Matt. 13:31-35; Luke 13:18-21)

The parables teach that the kingdom began in a very small way with the announcement of one man, John the Baptist (Luke 16:16), but it will eventually grow into a mighty kingdom of Christ. It continues the teaching of the little parable of the seed, which is directly related to the dream of Nebuchadnezzar in Daniel 2 as it talks about a stone cut out of the mountain without hands: “And the stone that smote the image became a great mountain , and filled the whole earth” (vs. 35, 44).
Even as it takes a tiny seed to grow, it takes time for leaven to spread through the doug, and it will take time from the announcement of the kingdom until “leaven” which usually symbolize evil in Scripture to permeate the entire dough. A study of the first three chapters of Revelation will show how the Church will deteriorate into what’s typified in the Laodicean Church:

Rev 3:17

17 Because thou sayest, I am rich, and increased with goods, and have need of nothing; and knowest not that thou art wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked:
KJV

That’s exactly where the Church is today. I plead with Christians to take the counsel of the next verse:

Rev 3:18

18 I counsel thee to buy of me gold tried in the fire, that thou mayest be rich; and white raiment, that thou mayest be clothed, and that the shame of thy nakedness do not appear; and anoint thine eyes with eyesalve, that thou mayest see.
KJV

It is such a sad state of affair that God is seeking entry into the Church that He purchased and is being prevented:

Rev 3:20

20 Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me.
KJV

It is a worthwhile plea, do heed to this call and receive the promise:

Rev 3:21-22

21 To him that overcometh will I grant to sit with me in my throne, even as I also overcame, and am set down with my Father in his throne.

22 He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches.
KJV

HOW SCRIPTURE IS DIVIDED

2008-05-13T03:50:00.000-07:00

A COMMENTARY OF MATTHEW CHAPTER
TWENTY-FOUR

Scripture can be properly divided into seven parts, each forming a complete section of Scripture: (1) Gen. 1:1-2a, (2) Gen. 1:2b-2:3, (3) Gen. 2:4-11:26, (4) the remainder of the Old Testament, (5) the New Testament through Revelation chapter nineteen, (6) Revelation 20:1-15, and (7) Rev. 21:1-22:21.

The first and second divisions, as has been demonstrated, covers the skeletal framework upon which the remainder rests.

The third division covers the first 2000 years of human history extending from Adam to Abraham.

The forth division begins with Abraham and covers the next 2000 years of human history, wherein God called one man out of Ur of the Chaldees to be the channel through whom He, from that point forward, would deal with mankind at large.

The fifth division begins with the first advent of Messiah and covers the next 2000 years of human history, wherein the Lamb of God dies (followed by burial, resurrection, and ascension), Israel is set aside, the Church is called into existence, and Messiah returns.

The sixth division covers the next 1000 years of human history, the long awaited Messianic Era, along with immediately following events.

The seventh division has to do with the eternal ages which follow the Messianic Era.

Now to illustrate how later revelation is inseparably connected with earlier revelation and how any revelation subsequent to Genesis 1:1-2:3 must be inseparably connected with these opening verses of Genesis, note the thousand years in Rev. 20:1-7. This is not the first time that the thousand years in mentioned in Scripture. Quite the contrary. Instead, it is the last time. The first mention of the thousand years in Scripture is within the skeletal framework at the beginning, in Gen. 2:1-3.

These years comprise the seventh millennium, foreshadowed by the seventh day in Genesis.
Not only that; but the thousand years in Rev. 20:1-7 are mentioned numerous places throughout Scripture, covering the six thousand years of time preceding the Messianic Era. These thousand years are the point in time toward which everything moves, with their repeated mention being a very natural and necessary part of Scripture.

The Sabbath given to Israel was a “sign” concerning this coming day (Exo. 31:13-17). Everytime Israel kept the Sabbath, at the end of six days of work, they were acknowledging what God had set forth in the foundational framework at the very beginning (vs. 15-17). They were acknowledging that God was going to work six days in the latter restoration (as He did in the former) and rest on the seventh day (as He did in the former).

(The pattern was set perfect in the beginning. And the latter restoration and rest must follow the former restoration and rest in exact detail, in every respect. The thousand years in Rev. 20:1-7 [which follows six thousand years of work] carries exactly the same relationship to Gen. 2:1-3 as the Sabbath given to Israel [which followed six days of work] carried to these verses. “There remaineth therefore a rest [lit. ‘Sabbath rest’] to the people of God” [Heb. 4:9; cf. v.4].)

Then reference is made to part or all of the six and seven days different places in Scripture, referring to 6000 and 7000 years, drawing from Gen. 1:2b-2:3 (cf. Num. 19:11-19; 11 Sam. 1:1, 2; Hos. 5:15-6:2; Jonah 1:17; Matt. 16:28-17:5; John 1:29, 35, 43, 2:1; 11:6, 7).

Then, beyond that, events surrounding the coming Messianic Era – events occurring during the seventh day, the seventh 1000 year period – are mentioned time after time throughout Scripture (e.g. Isa. 2:1-5; 4:1-6; 14:1-8; Jer. 30:1-9; 31:31-33; Ezek. 36:24-28; 37:1ff; Matt. 24:30, 31; Acts 15:14-18; Rom. 11:25, 26).

It will be in that day that the blessings of Gen. 12:2, 3 will be realized in their fullness by both Israel and the nations; it will be in that day that Christ will exercise the Melchizedek priesthood, blessing the descendants of Abraham, both heavenly and earthly (Gen. 14:18, 19); it will be in that day that the seed of Abraham, both heavenly and earthly will “possess the gate of [i.e. rule over]” the enemy (Gen. 22:17, 18); it will be in that day that God will restore Israel to her rightful place (Gen. 25:1ff). And on and on one could go with what God has revealed in His Word about that coming seventh day.

It is as Nathaniel West said one hundred years ago in his book:

THE THOUSAND YEARS IN BOTH TESTAMENTS:

“What we find in the New Testament as its outcome in respect to the ages and the kingdom, has already lain in the bosom of the Old Testament from the beginning…. Nothing appears in the latter revelation that was not hid in the earlier, nothing in John that was not in Moses…. If we study the eschatology of the Old Testament, we will find the Echata there identical with the Echeta of the New Testament, and the eschatology of both Testaments the same… if ‘the thousand years are not in Moses, the Psalms, and the Prophets, they have no right to be in John.”

Accordingly, any study of the thousand years cannot possibly begin with what God has revealed in Rev. 20:1-7. Rather, it must, of necessity, begin with what God revealed in Gen. 2:1-3. Rev. 20:1-7 forms the capstone to the matter. This section of Scripture covers in very brief form that which the prophets have previously covered in great detail. And only the simple statement need be made, for all the details has already been given.

The whole matter is really that simple if one remains within the manner in which God has structured His revelation to man. There is something about people that studies the Bible, if they come across any new interpretations that are not like the one they hold, relating to any particular passage of Scripture; there is the tendency to pass the “new” off as incorrect. As we seek to understand God’s Word and study, let us make an effort to see if the Scripture fits chronologically. This might just spark a desire to dig deeper into the Word.

PASTOR FAUST'S MOTHER'S DAY MESSAGE

2008-05-12T04:58:00.000-07:00

The audio version of this sermon may be heard online: http://www.kingdombaptist.org
===============================================
MOTHERS: BLESSED, OPPRESSED OR DEPRESSED? ===============================================
A Mother's Day Sermon, May 11, 2008, Kingdom Baptist Church, Pastor Joey Faust.

TEXT: Proverbs 31:30. . .Her children arise up, and call her BLESSED. . .

There are some modern, so-called "progressive" ideas about what a mother is. These new, perverted ideas are in contrast to what God has ordained a mother to be, and what much of mankind has understood a mother to be throughout history:

THE BANNED MOTHER: Huxley's "Brave New World" predicted a time to come when "mother" would be seen as a bad word. Today, there is pressure on schools, around the world, by sodomite activists, to get rid of words like "mother." The Australians just rejected the change, for the time being. But others are not resisting the foolishness: "Homosexual activists around the world are using language as a major front for their agenda...Following passage of same-sex 'marriage' legislation in Spain, the government ordered that 'mother' and 'father' were to be replaced in the State Civil Registries Family Book with Parent (progenitor) A and Parent (progenitor) B...

This February nurses in Scotland were told ...they must avoid using the terms 'mother' and 'father'...the province of Ontario banned 'mother' and 'father'. . . from all Ontario statutes."("United Press International") California's schools are all now, officially and openly, homosexual indoctrination centers, since Gov. Arnold signed bill 777; it bans words like "Mama"! It mandates that schools teach that gender is relative! This shows that you can work out your body, but still have the spiritual backbone of a tulip! Satan, through this world system, is working to not only ban the "word" mother. He wants women that may otherwise be called to marriage, to ruin their lives, and futures, by living for pleasure, and despising "motherhood."

There are people that want the world's population to be drastically decreased - especially in the West. Therefore, silly women are being manipulated into using the beauty of their youth, not to build a family, but to exploit it and waste it on men who do not care. It is a terrible trick of the Devil. Communist, Betty Friedan, ("The Feminine Mystique," 1963; founder of NOW) convinced a whole generation of women that homemaking was a "concentration camp." Millions believed that true happiness and liberty were to be found in allowing their beauty to be exploited and wasted! It taught women that motherhood, in a traditional family, was "oppression"! But the real captivity was when these women left traditional motherhood to become enslaved objects of evil men's lusts. They were servants of evil men, when they could have been winning a good man's love, and raising a family:

2 Peter 2:19

While they promise them LIBERTY, they themselves are the servants of corruption: for of whom a man is overcome, of the same is he brought in bondage.

2 Timothy 3:1

This know also, that in the LAST DAYS perilous times shall come.6 For of this sort are they which creep into houses, and lead CAPTIVE silly women laden with sins, led away with divers lusts,

Did this "Satanic liberty" bring happier women? No, they soon found that their "new master" was the real oppressor. Their beauty, worshipped and used by the world, only lasts for a brief moment. And then this world system will spit them out as worthless: Proverbs 31:30...beauty is vain...

1 Peter 1:24

For all flesh is as grass...The grass withereth, and the flower thereof falleth away:

For centuries, mankind has known that women are happiest when they are selfless; pouring themselves into their families: "To feel, to love, to suffer, to devote herself, will always be the text of the life of woman."("The Royal Path of Life," 1882) But what happens when women are led astray from being women? Will they find happiness?

Betty Friedan lost her marriage. Her ex-husband, describes her life. It was filled with amphetamines and alcohol; and mixed with her feminist mind-set, this led to insanity: "She'd explode unexpectedly. . .She was the most violent person I have ever known. I've seen women frightened by her. Men, too." (Carl Friedan, "Living With Insanity," chapter) She would bloody him up, and gouge him. The accounts are demonic! It does not appear that feminism leads to happiness! You don't hear much about it, but the greatest amount of domestic violence, statistically, is found in women who have "left the natural use," and have joined together in a household! In their perverted escape from so-called "male oppression," they begin to oppress one another.

In contrast, the women who are the happiest, are the ones who don't compete or fear male strength. They blossom as women in their trust for God and His ways. They are not afraid with amazement (1 Peter 3), and this sets them free to be women, according to God's design. Even the world is forced to admit some of these self-evident truths.

Research studies from Princeton and the University of Pennsylvania, reveal that women are not as happy as they were before the feminist movement!: "Men Are Now Happier Than Women. . .Two new research papers arrive at this conclusion. One tracked traditional happiness data by asking people how satisfied they are with their lives. It found that women, who in the early 1970s reported being slightly happier than men, are now slightly less happy. . .The other [study] analyzed time-use studies over the past four decades. . .women have replaced housework with paid work. . . and as a result are spending more time doing things they don't enjoy. . .both men and women seemed to dread their jobs. . .Both would much rather cook or do laundry. . ."(www.cbsnews.com 2007/09/26) "[Friedan's] book helped spark the sexual revolution of the 1970s and fueled the notion that that [wives who pursued careers out of the home would become] happier.

Last week, two sociologists at the University of Virginia published an exhaustive study of marital happiness among women that challenges this assumption. Stay-at-home wives, according to the authors, are more content than their working counterparts. . .the most interesting data may be that the women who strongly identify as progressive - the 15 percent who agree most with feminist ideals - have a harder time being happy than their peers. . . Feminist ideals, not domestic duties, seem to be what make wives morose. . ."(www.slate.com)

Obviously, Satan's rebellious and perverse ways will always ultimately lead to destruction - even in this life. God told Cain that his countenance would be lifted if he obeyed what is right (Genesis 4). Instead, Cain went his own way; the way of the world. THE DISTRACTED MOTHER: If Satan cannot ban motherhood, he must pervert it.

The "distracted mother" is set forth as his ideal. She must not be selfless and truly feminine. She must seek a career, or go after some "cause" in a manner that abandons her children's care and discipline to others. But what is the fruit of this feminism?:

Proverbs 29:15

The rod and reproof give wisdom: but a child left to himself bringeth his MOTHER TO SHAME.

Proverbs 31:27, 28

She looketh well to the ways of her household, and eateth not the bread of idleness.

28 Her children arise up, and CALL HER BLESSED; her husband also, and he praiseth her.

Satan is trying to cheat mothers out of the blessing of verse 28! He wants mothers to end up with shame and regret, and alienation from their children. This can be seen in a recent news headline about another feminist leader who left a path of destruction behind her: "The day feminist icon Alice Walker resigned as my mother - In the mid-1980s, The New York Times ran a profile of the American writer and activist Alice Walker. Her novel, "The Color Purple," had won the Pulitzer prize and was being turned into a film by Steven Spielberg. The article was illustrated by a photograph of Walker sitting on her teenaged daughter's knee. It was meant to be a 'fun' picture; but, in retrospect, according to Rebecca Walker, the photographer unwittingly portrayed the true nature of her relationship with her mother. . .Walker's success as a campaigner was to her detriment as a mother.

Like Dickens's Mrs Jellyby, who neglects her home and her children as she directs her energy towards the poor of Africa, so America's icon often went to feminist meetings and rallies and left Rebecca to fend for herself. Her daughter experimented with drugs and became pregnant at 14. . .mother and daughter are estranged with little hope of reconciliation. . .[According to Rebecca:] 'To have a daughter who was questioning feminism - it was seen as a threat'. . .'You've got young women saying, 'That didn't really work for me' and the older ones saying, 'Tough, because that's how it should be'. . .'I think sometimes of. . .feminism as being close to a cult. . .'"("Times Online," May 4, 2008)

Did this child rise up and call her blessed? No. She had left the cult, and she must be despised and shunned. Many children are growing up and leaving "the feminist cult," to various degrees. Some only want the choice, and they resent being persecuted if they decide to raise their home in a traditional way; they have seen the destruction of radical feminism (divorce, bitterness, unhappiness, unstable children, etc.). Others rightfully see that the whole agenda as demonically inspired, through evil men, for the purpose of population control and remaking society so that the state replaces the family. To whatever degree, this return to homemaking, modesty, home-schooling, submission, etc., is shocking to many. But it is not rejection of the former generation; it is a rejection of the conspiring men and devils that deceived the former generation. There only choices in this final "falling away" are to go the other direction, or keep falling. What is next?

After cross-dressing and immodesty came the sexual revolution and homosexuality. Does anyone with eyes want to stick around to see what the next generation will rebel against? Will they be cannibals with unmentionable perversions? It is better that they rebel against the wrong choices of the former generation (as painful as that can be, if taken personally), than continue the fall into hell and tyranny! THE BLESSED MOTHER: The false view of motherhood is based upon a lie! Somehow, Satan was able to convince Eve that she was oppressed in paradise! How could it be? Satan convinced her that one commandment was oppression! He promised her liberty into godhood, if she would take control of her home and defy God's ways. He seduced her into changing God's ways. Adam obeyed her, and God killed him! Almost 6000 years later, Satan again convinced almost a whole generation of women that children are worthless! Who needs to be home with them?

Certainly, telephones and computers are more important than little souls. Right? What a lie! A century ago, women thought leaving the cradle for politics was a demotion! They felt they had the most influence in shaping the values of the next generation! Is a human soul worthless? What will a man give in exchange for his soul?:

Psalms 127:3

Lo, children are an heritage of the LORD: and the fruit of the womb is his reward.

Motherhood is a high calling!:

Proverbs 27:18

Whoso keepeth the fig tree shall eat the fruit thereof: so he that waiteth on his master shall be honoured.

If being a diligent servant has its own blessings, then how blessed must be the woman who is faithful to her husband and children? What honor will she receive, from her family, and God? What fruit will she receive?:

Proverbs 29:17

Correct thy son, and he shall give thee rest; yea, he shall give delight unto thy soul.

When we do things God's way, His blessings are released! Satan has somehow convinced women that homemaking is to be despised:

1 Timothy 5:14

I will therefore that the younger women marry, bear children, GUIDE the house, give none occasion to the adversary to speak reproachfully.

But in God's eyes, it is a high calling. Will we believe God or Satan? We have seen the fruit of Satan's ways. It is abortion - baby murder. That is where it ends. The so-called sexual liberation movement ends in a Satanic sacrament. Babies must be sacrificed; burned in the fires (salt solution), or neglected. Paganism has come full circle. What shall be our revenge on such ungodly deception? Shall we wear the badges of Baal and show forth allegiance to the feminist and sexual revolution? Or shall we renounce all that is associated with this Satanic movement that has cost the lives of millions of infants?

Women left what Friedan said was the "concentration camp" of homemaking, to literally burn millions of infants in "abortion ovens." This is just one of the "fruits" of following Satan. In the face of such horror, let us encourage women to renounce the unfruitful works of darkness. Let us encourage them to be modest, submissive, stay-at-home mothers, who are happy with their feminine garments and calling.

One dear brother in our church, in prayer, said that he had grieved his mother by his sin, and now, he is grown and she is dead. He cannot make it up to her, but he can warn the next generation! The former generation cannot undo the destruction. The babies have been slain. Marriages and families have been ripped asunder. But one thing that can be done, is people can encourage the next generation to abandon the Satanic bait. They can expose it as a lie and exhort young folks to seek the old paths (see Titus 2 and the command for aged women).

Perhaps you received a sweet email that has been sent around. I don't think I have ever read one of these from the pulpit since e-mail was invented. But I will read some excerpts from this one: "A woman, renewing her driver's license at the County Clerk 's office, was asked by the woman recorder to state her occupation. She hesitated, uncertain how to classify herself. 'What I mean is, ' explained the recorder, 'do you have a job or are you just a ...?' 'Of course I have a job,' snapped the woman. 'I'm a Mom'. . .I forgot all about her story until one day I found myself in the same situation...The Clerk was obviously a career woman. . .'What is your occupation?' she probed. What made me say it? I do not know. Â The words simply popped out. 'I'm a Research Associate in the field of Child Development and Human Relations.' The clerk paused, ball-point pen frozen in midair. . . I repeated the title slowly emphasizing the most significant words. Then I stared with wonder as my pronouncement was written, in bold, black ink on the official questionnaire. 'Might I ask,' said the clerk with new interest, 'just what you do in your field?' Coolly, without any trace of fluster in my voice, I heard myself reply, 'I have a continuing program of research, (what mother doesn't) In the laboratory and in the field, (normally I would have said indoors and out). . .Of course, the job is one of the most demanding in the humanities (any mother care to disagree?) and I often work 14 hours a day. . .But the job is more challenging than most run-of-the-mill careers and the rewards are more of a satisfaction rather than just money.' There was an increasing note of respect in the clerk's voice as she completed the form, stood up, and personally ushered me to the door. As I drove into our driveway, buoyed up by my glamorous new career, I was greeted by my lab assistants - ages 13, 7, and 3.Â Â Upstairs I could hear our new experimental model (a 6 month old baby) in the child development program. . .I felt I had scored a beat on bureaucracy!"

This reminds me of a recent news report about the worth of a stay-at-home mother: "If a stay-at-home mom could be compensated in dollars rather than personal satisfaction and unconditional love, she'd rake in a nifty sum of nearly US$117,000 a year. That's according to a pre-Mother's Day study released Thursday by Salary.com, a...Mass. based firm that studies workplace compensation. The eighth annual survey calculated a mom's market value by studying pay levels for 10 job titles with duties that a typical mom performs, ranging from housekeeper and day care centre teacher to van driver, psychologist and chief executive officer. . .One stay-at-home mom said the six-figure salary sounds a little low. 'I think a lot of people think we sit and home and have a lot of fun and don't do a lot of work,' said Samantha Russell, a Fremont, N.H., mother who left her job as pastry chef to raise two boys, ages two and four. 'But they should try cleaning their house with little kids running around and messing it up right after them...Russell agreed her job as a stay-at-home mom is more than full-time. But she said her 'job' brings intangible benefits she wouldn't enjoy in the workplace. 'The rewards aren't monetary, but it's a reward knowing that they're safe and happy,' Russell said of her sons. 'It's worth it all.'" (AP, May 8, 2008)

THE BEST GIFT FOR MOTHER:

One of the best gifts a child can give to his or her mother, is their obedience:

Proverbs 10:1

. . .a foolish son is the heaviness of his mother.

Proverbs 23:19

Hear thou, my son, and be wise. . .25. . .and she that bare thee shall rejoice.

Let husbands also praise a godly wife who is dedicated to the family. As men, we do not need another man in the house. Let us therefore not despise the differences in a dedicated wife. If her heart is toward her family, let us exalt her and honor her. And, as she has placed herself under our protection, in obedience to the Lord, let us cherish her and defend her unto death.

HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY DEAR MOM

2008-05-11T06:03:00.000-07:00

EVERY DAY IS MOTHER’S DAY

Today is set aside in many parts of the world as Mother’s Day, and we salute our mothers. However, let us make a special effort to examine ourselves and see if we are doing what God expects of us to foster the kind of families that He is pleased with. Don’t just be nice to “Mother” today and then go back to a way that might not be well-pleasing to God. This is not a challenge just to mothers, but to all of us; especially us of “he household of faith”.

Matthew 24:12 is an incredible and profound Scripture and it explains our predicament perfectly. It says that in the end times, "...because iniquity [anything that quenches God's Spirit] shall abound, the Love of many shall grow cold." The Greek word here for "iniquity" is anomia, which means "a disregard of God's law of Agape" (Romans 13:10).

The reason this definition of "iniquity" is so interesting is that the Greek word for love here in this Scripture is Agape - which means God's supernatural Love. So, this passage has to be talking about Christians, because Christians are the only ones who have God's Love in their hearts (because Jesus is in their hearts). This passage is saying that in the end times, something is going to happen to that Love in Christians' hearts ("a disregard for it"), that will cause it to be quenched, blocked and grow cold (look around, another proof that His return is near).

It is shocking that this could possibly refer to God's Love in Christians. But, in the years I've known this verse, this is exactly what I see happening in our Christian community today. And it's one of the reasons why so many Christian marriages, Christian relationships, and Christian Church bodies are having so much trouble. Something has happened to God's Love in our hearts that has made it grow cold in our lives.

Anyone of us can become one of those Matthew 24:12 statistics. Having God's Love in our hearts (and it does not matter how long we’ve been saved), we can certainly grow cold in our lives because we have chosen to hold on to (and not give over to God) bitterness, resentment, anger and unforgiveness towards those we claim offends us. Thus, without realizing it, we quenched God's Spirit (His Love) in us. We often "disregarded His Law of Love" and it is sin (iniquity).

Ironically, we can do these things and still think we are operating in God's Love. Today some of us are actively involved in “ministry” and think we automatically have Agape Love flowing through us! The truth is, we didn't even know the meaning of the word Agape - because we are loving, hoping to get in return the love that we so desperately needed. That's not God's Love at all, but our own natural, self-centered, human love! I think many Christians today are confusing natural, human love with God's Love. And this is where we are getting confused, off track, and ready to give up because it's just not working.

God's Love

What we must first understand at this time is that Agape is not a human emotion or feeling, but God Himself loving through us. God is the One doing the loving, not us. And all God desires from us is the willingness to set ourselves aside (to relinquish ourselves, to surrender ourselves), so that He can love through us.

When I say "self," I mean all of our own thoughts, emotions, and desires that are not of faith (things that are not of God; things that are contrary to God). All God wants from us is the "willingness" to yield our "selves" to Him, so that He then can freely love His Love through us. In other words, God's Love doesn't just automatically flow through us, just because we are Christians. We can prevent the flow of God's love by blocking it with our emotions. All of our hurts, anger, fears, resentments, pride and unbelief that we choose to hold on to and not give over to God, block His Love in our hearts and cause it to grow cold in our lives.

The Real Problem

This is exactly the problem in many families (marriages) – Christians' included. If we don't know "how" to (or even that we are "supposed to") give our hurts, bitterness and unforgiveness over to God, His Love became quenched (blocked, covered over) in our hearts. But, because we might not know of any real solutions - after we explode or cry - then we just pushed all those emotions down deep in our hearts, locked them up tightly, force a smile on our faces, and came out to begin all over again.

We think that by "burying our real feelings and emotions" and putting a smile on, we will get rid of them and no one would ever know the difference. The truth is, of course, when we bury our real feelings, we don't get rid of them, we just program them in deeper, and then they become the motivation for much of our behavior.

Now, the world functions this way because the world has no other choice - it has no other option. Without Jesus in our lives to literally take away our hurts, our frustration, our unforgiveness we're all "walking time bombs," ready to explode! (Just like the world). Read the newspapers today, watch T.V., notice the people on the street. Everyone seems ready to explode - you see it everywhere.

"Naturally" we all respond to hurt and pain in one of two ways: We either vent our anger and our frustration or we push them down and bury them. If we have Jesus in our lives, however, there is a third option: if we can just recognize and acknowledge our true thoughts and feelings and learn how to literally give these things to God (rather than venting them or burying them), then God promises to remove them "as far as the east is from the west" and fill us with His Love (Psalm 103:12). So, our only responsibility is to recognize and acknowledge the negative things in our lives that are not of faith and to give them over to Him. God, then, will do the rest.

What is the Situation?

Of course, we don't always know these things or they don’t come to mind when we are in desperate situations; and so without God intervening and doing something pretty radical in our relationships (marriages), it’s a worrysome situation.

We often feel like we have tried every way we knew to save our relationships (marriagies) - books, marriage counselors, seminars, the way of "submission", crying fits and everything else. Yet, nothing seem to ever work - the fact is, none of these have changed us on the inside. These are simply temporary outside fixes, because they never touched or exposed the real junk "inside" that quenched God's Love.

We must seek in our lives, a "more excellent way" for us to love and that is what I think is totally missing in many Christian relationships today. We must trust God enough to give Him all our frustrations, loneliness, resentments, unforgiveness etc. (all the things in us that are not of faith), He will then show us how to initiate His Love to others. I am not saying that you don't have ligitimate reasons to feel the way we feel, we are human; but we must act outside of the 'natural' and in the 'spiritual' by giving these emotions over to God.

Everyday is “Mother’s Day” and here is God’s model for mothers that He is well pleased with: Take this "test" and see what you think God is thinking about you (me) right at this moment. Am I well pleasing to Him?

Prov 31:11-12, 23, 25-31.
11 The heart of her husband doth safely trust in her, so that he shall have no need of spoil.

12 She will do him good and not evil all the days of her life.
23 Her husband is known in the gates, when he sitteth among the elders of the land.
25 Strength and honour are her clothing; and she shall rejoice in time to come.
26 She openeth her mouth with wisdom; and in her tongue is the law of kindness.
27 She looketh well to the ways of her household, and eateth not the bread of idleness.
28 Her children arise up, and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praiseth her.
29 Many daughters have done virtuously, but thou excellest them all.
30 Favour is deceitful, and beauty is vain: but a woman that feareth the LORD, she shall be praised.
31 Give her of the fruit of her hands; and let her own works praise her in the gates.
KJV

FOOT WASHING IN THE CHURCH

2008-05-08T06:47:00.000-07:00

JESUS’ PRESENT MINISTRY

The Word becoming flesh and dwelling among us; is not something that’s properly understood among many Christians. The simplest way I think I can express this truth is, “That which we have as Old Testament” put on flesh in the Person of Jesus Christ and what we have as New Testament is “about Christ”- about what’s in the Old Testament.

Christ is presently exercising the office of High Priest on behalf of Christians. He is ministering in the heavenly sanctuary, on the basis of His Own blood, for Christians who sin. Christians presently reside in a body of death; they still possess the old sin nature. And Christians, falling into sin, must have a High Priest to effect cleansing for their sins.

The high priestly ministry of Christ is for the heirs of the kingdom, just as the priests of the Old Testament ministries were for those chosen of God to enter the Promised Land. Christ’s present High Priestly ministry has nothing to do with the issue of our presently possessed eternal salvation. Like in the camp of Israel, the ministry of the Levitical priests was for those who had already appropriated the blood of the paschal lambs. It was for the cleansing of a people destined to become a “kingdom of priests” (Exo. 19:6; cf. Heb. 9:1-7). Therefore, in Christendom, the work of Christ as High Priest, typified by the high priest in the camp of Israel, is for the same purpose. It is for the cleansing of a people destined to be “kings and priests” (Rev. 5:10; cf. Heb. 9:11, 12, 24).

God would have His people clean for both present and future purposes. According to the Epistle of 1 John, God desires to have a present reciprocal fellowship with a cleansed people. Cleansing makes fellowship possible, and the entire matter is with a view to the return of Christ and attendant events. Christians have been instructed: “….abide in him [i.e. live in a state of conscious, close fellowship ‘with the Father, and with His Son Jesus Christ’]; that, when he shall appear, we may have confidence and not be ashamed before him at his coming” (1 John 1:3-2:2, 28; cf. 3:6-9; 4:16, 17). In this respect, Christ’s High Priestly ministry is a vital present provision for the future heirs of the kingdom.

Christ gave Himself for the Church,

Eph 5:26-27

26 That he might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by the word,

27 That he might present it to himself a glorious church, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing; but that it should be holy and without blemish.
KJV

This aspect of Christ’s present ministry is possibly best illustrated by the incident of John chapter thirteen where Christ girded Himself, took a basin of water, and began to wash the disciple’s feet (13:4ff). Some Churches practice that today without a proper understanding of what Christ was actually teaching His disciples at the time. Peter, not at all understanding the significance of that which was happening, refused to allow Christ to wash his feet. Upon his refusal, Jesus responded, “If I wash thee not, thou hast no part with me” (v.8). Notice He did not say “in” Me. Peter then, comprehending at least the gravity of the latter part of Christ’s statement, said, “Lord, not my feet only, but also my hands and my head” (v.9).

What Peter was here saying is, if a washing is what it would take in order to have a part “with” Christ, Peter didn’t want the washing to be limited to just his feet. Rather, he wanted his entire body washed. However, Jesus replied, “He that is washed needeth not save to wash his feet, but is clean every whit” (v.10).

In the Greek text of John 13:8-10, there are two different words used for “wash.” The word used in verse eight (in both occurrences) and in the latter part of verse ten is nipto, referring to “washing a part of the body”; and the word used in the first part of verse then is louo, referring to “washing the entire body.” Further, the word louo in verse ten appears in a perfect tense, showing a past, completed action with the results of this action existing during present time in a finished state. (That rules out the Church practicing feet-washing for the reason Christ did it to His disciples hss no place in the Church today). This act of Christ reveals a washing which occurred in the past, with the person washed continuing in the present as a cleaned person on the basis of that which occurred in the past. Thus, any thought of the cleansed person undergoing another washing of this nature would be completely out of place, for he presently exist in a continuing state as cleansed.

Peter’s entire body had already been washed; but now in order to have a part with Christ, he must avail himself of the partial washing to which Christ referred.

The entire matter is highly symbolic of a “complete washing” which Christians received in the past and “partial washings” which Christians receive during the present. The complete washing results in eternal salvation, but the partial washings are necessary if one is to have a part “with Christ” in His kingdom. The complete washing – viewed from the perfect tense usage of louo in John 13:10 is a one-time, past occurrence, which can never be repeated. But the partial washings set forth by the word nipto, are totally different. Subsequent partial washings have to do with a present, continuing cleansing made possible because of the one-time, past cleansing.

On the basis of the past, finished work of Christ, redeemed man has been saved by grace through faith. In Eph. 2:8, the words “are ye saved [lit. ‘you have been saved’]” are the translation of a perfect tense in the Greek text, the same as the word louo, in John 13:10. Redeemed man possesses a salvation, based on a past completed act (Christ’s work on Calvary), which presently exist in a finished state. Everything has already been done on his behalf. He has nothing whatsoever to do with the matter simply because there was nothing he could do.

He has been washed completely (louo) by Another, and presently stands justified before God. This is an act performed once and can never be altered or nullified. It is just as secured as the finished work of Christ on Calvary, for it is based entirely upon this work. And Christ, in John 19:30, said of His work, “It is finished [lit. ‘it has been finished’ (another perfect tense usage in the Greek text)].”

Teachings in the realm of complete and partial washings, as set forth in John 13:8-10, are drawn from the experiences of the Levitical priests in the camp of Israel. Upon their entrance into the priesthood, a washing of the entire body occurred (Exo. 29:4; cf. Exo. 40:12-15); then after they had entered the priesthood, washings of part of the body had to occur every time they went to offer sacrifices (Exo. 30:21; cf. Exo. 40:30-32). A Christian then washes himself with the water of the Word (Eph. 5:26) to maintain that fellowship with God – the basin of water seen in some Churches is not according to Christ, but totally man-made as a result of misunderstanding Scripture.

THE CHURCH IS IN ERROR TO SEEK SIGNS, WONDERS, AND MIRACLES

2008-05-07T03:54:00.000-07:00

SIGNS, WONDERS, AND MIRACLES IN THE NEW TESTAMENT

After moving through 1500 years of Jewish history and seeing signs, wonders, and miracles manifested at only two different points within that history, things suddenly changed. Israel’s Messiah (following the ministry of His forerunner, John the Baptist) appeared with a message concerning the kingdom of the heavens; and this message was accompanied by numerous signs, wonders, and miracles (Matt. 4:17-25; 8:1ff).

Then, in conjunction with and very early in His ministry, Christ called twelve disciples to help carry this message; and they were empowered to perform signs, wonders, and miracles in connection with their ministry as well (Matt. 10-5-8).

(Also, Jesus later “appointed” seventy others to go “before His face in every city and place, where He himself would come” – though very little is said about them in the gospel accounts – and empowered them to perform signs, wonders, and miracles [Luke 10:1-19]. Thus, at this time, there was a manifestation of supernatural signs in the camp of Israel unlike anything heretofore seen in the history of the nation.)

Christ had been sent only to ‘the lost sheep of the house of Israel” (Matt. 15:24), and Christ sent His disciples whom He called to Israel alone (Matt. 10:6). Both Christ and His disciples went to Israel with the same message and the same accompanying manifestations of supernatural powers. It was a message surrounding the offer of the kingdom of the heavens to the nation, attended by a manifestation of signs, wonders, and miracles.

Whether it was Jesus or His disciples proclaiming the proffered kingdom; signs, wonders, and miracles accompanied their ministry and formed the credentials of those carrying the message. They were supernatural events which authenticated their message as being true and from God (John 3:1, 2; Acts 2:22; c.f. Exo. 4:1-9).

The religious leaders in Israel were to see these signs, wonders, and miracles and know, from these, that the messengers were God-sent. Then, believing and understanding the message which they had heard, they were responsible for carrying it to the people of Israel (c.f. Exo. 4:29-31; Num. 13:1-26).

However, exactly the opposite occurred when the message was proclaimed by Christ and His disciples. The religious leaders not only refused to believe the message, but they, in their unbelief, carried a false message to the people of Israel (Matt. 12:14-32; 23:13).

This is why Christ near the end of His earthly ministry, condemned the actions of the Scribes and Pharisees – the fundamental religious leaders of that day – in no uncertain terms [Matt. 23:1ff]. They had heard the true message, and they had seen the accompanying miraculous powers, authenticating the message; but they had rejected the message and sought to do away with the accompanying supernatural powers mainly through attacking the Messenger.

The Scribes and Pharisees had sought to discredit the message in the eyes of the people, bringing about reproach on the Messenger and casting doubt on His message [e.g. Matt. 9:27-34; 12:22-24; c.f. John 12:10, 11]. And, whether by word or deed, this resulted in their bearing a false message to the people of Israel [Matt. 23:13]).

This all resulted in Israel’s rejection of not only the message but the Messenger as well, the removal of the kingdom of the heavens from Israel, the crucifixion of Israel’s Messiah, and the bringing into existence of a separate and distinct entity to be the recipient of that which was offered to and rejected by Israel. Israel failed to bring forth fruit in relation to the kingdom of the heavens, and “the one new man” in Christ was called into existence to be accorded the opportunity to bring forth fruit in this realm (Matt. 21:33-43).

Thought the kingdom was taken from Israel and the Church was called into existence to be the recipient of the offer, there was a reoffer of the kingdom to Israel. If for no other reason, this was evident because of the continuance of signs, wonders, and miracles. That would be to say, if God had terminated His dealings with Israel at or before the time that the Church was called into existence signs, wonders, and miracles would have ceased to exist. These supernatural works have nothing to do with the “one new man” in Christ (who is “neither Jews not Greek” [Gal. 3:28]). They have to do with Israel alone (1 Cor. 1:22), and they have to do with Israel in relation to the kingdom.

The supernatural works were manifested by those carrying the message to Israel (Acts 2:4; 3:1ff; 4:29-33; 5:12ff; 6:8ff); and when Gentiles began to be added to the body of Christ, they were manifested within Churches comprised of saved Gentiles, such as the Church in Corinth (chs. 12-14). A manifestation of supernatural works in the Church after this fashion was centered around the thought of provoking Israel “to jealousy” (Rom. 10:19; 11:11, 14). That is, God was using those whom Israel considered Gentile dogs to manifest supernatural powers which naturally belonged to Israel in order to provoke the nation to jealously.

Between a segment of the “one new man” in Christ carrying the message to Israel and another segment seeking to provoke the nation to jealousy – all being done through the manifestation of signs, wonders, and miracles – the Jewish people were dealt with in what might be considered a maximum manner. In one respect, God pulled out all stops (c.f. Luke 10: 13-24; 11:19-32); but the religious leaders in Israel would still have nothing to do with the message.

VIEWING THINGS FROM THE BEGINNING

The true nature of events which occurred on the day of Pentecost, as recorded in the first two chapters of the Book of Acts – when the reoffer of the kingdom of the heavens to Israel began – is not understood in Christendom today at all. Whole denominations have been built on a false understanding of these chapters, and cult groups have seized upon Acts 2:28 as revealing the way in which a person is to be saved; and practically the whole of Christendom, to counter the teachings of the cults, have taught things concerning this verse which are equally erroneous. If either understood that which is stated in the verses leading up to Acts 2:28, the whole matter wouldn’t even exist. Neither would have acted so completely out of line with the Scriptures.

SIGNS GIVEN TO ISRAEL

2008-05-06T03:07:00.000-07:00

SIGNS, WONDERS, AND MIRACLES IN THE OLD TESTAMENT

Signs, wonders, and miracles performed through individuals, were manifested only on two occasions in all the Old Testament. They were manifested by Moses and Aaron surrounding Israel’s deliverance from Egypt, with a view of the nation’s entrance into the land of Canaan; and they were manifested by Moses’ successor, Joshua surrounding Israel’s subsequent entrance into the Land of Canaan (Exo. 4:29-31; 7:10ff; Josh. 3:7ff; 10:12-14).

That was the first occasion. The second was a manifestation by Elijah and his successor Elisha, some five hundred years later (1 Kings 17:1ff; 11 Kings 2:13ff).

Outside of these two occasions there is not a single reference of an individual being empowered to perform signs, wonders, and miracles throughout all the Old Testament Scriptures. Numerous signs are recorded in Scripture (e.g. the burning bush which was not consumed [Exo. 3:2], the sun being moved back ten degrees on the dial [Isa. 38:7, 8], the three Israelites being protected in the fiery furnace [Dan. 3:19-25], or Jonah being raised from the dead [Jon. 1:17-2:10]), but these were miraculous works performed directly by God, not by individuals that God had empowered to perform them.

Note that the manifestation of signs, wonders, and miracles during the days of Moses, Aaron, and Joshua was in relation to Israel and the kingdom.

Supernatural manifestation of power occurred relative to Israel being removed from Egypt and being established in the land of Canaan, with a theocracy. Thus, a first-mention principle was set forth at this point in Scripture, establishing an unchangeable truth. Anytime there is a mention of signs, wonders, and miracles being performed by individuals beyond this point, both Israel and the kingdom have to be in view.

During the days of Elijah and Elisha the people of Israel had been established in the land, within a theocracy, for about five hundred years. But, because of continued disobedience on the part of the people, the theocracy never reached the height which God had intended. The theocracy reached its greatest heights during the days of David and his son Solomon (though far from the height which God intended); but after that, following the division of the kingdom, things began to go into another direction entirely. It was during these days that Elijah was called forth (with Elisha finishing his ministry) to call the nation to repentance.

The manifestation of signs, wonders, and miracles accompanying their ministry pertained to Israel and the kingdom. They had to, for a first-mention principle had previously been established; and any future manifestation had to be exactly in accord with the way matters were set forth in the beginning.

The signs, wonders, and miracles were simply the credentials of those manifesting them in Israel’s presence. Through a manifestation of supernatural powers accompanying the message, Israel was to recognize that the messenger had been sent from God; and the people were to heed the message accordingly (Exo. 4:1-9, 29-31).

The people of Israel had failed to heed the message; the nation didn’t repent. And the Assyrian and Babylonian captivities followed (722 B.C. and 605 B.C. respectively).

“The times of the Gentiles” began with the Babylonian captivity, has lasted to this present day, and will last until the end of the Tribulation.

This is simply a prolonged, uninterrupted period of time – lasting about 2600 years – during which Israel must dwell apart from a theocracy and remain scattered among the Gentile nations. And the Gentiles, among whom Israel dwells, will hold the scepter throughout this time.

Though Jews have returned to the land these are unrepentant Jews and therefore is not the 'restoration' that God has promised them, that is yet future when Israel repents.

SIGNS/MIRACLES IN SCRIPTURE

2008-05-05T03:50:00.000-07:00

SIGNS/MIRACLES

John 5:6-9

6 When Jesus saw him lie, and knew that he had been now a long time in that case, he saith unto him, Wilt thou be made whole?

7 The impotent man answered him, Sir, I have no man, when the water is troubled, to put me into the pool: but while I am coming, another steppeth down before me.

8 Jesus saith unto him, Rise, take up thy bed, and walk.

9 And immediately the man was made whole, and took up his bed, and walked: and on the same day was the sabbath.
KJV

Because Christ had done this, the Jewish people looked upon it as a violation of the law of the Sabbath, and they sought to slay Him:
John 5:16

16 And therefore did the Jews persecute Jesus, and sought to slay him, because he had done these things on the sabbath day.
KJV

Then, Christ commenting on the matter and equating Himself with God in the process, they sought even more to kill Him:
John 5:17-18

17 But Jesus answered them, My Father worketh hitherto, and I work.

18 Therefore the Jews sought the more to kill him, because he not only had broken the sabbath, but said also that God was his Father, making himself equal with God.
KJV

This action of Christ surrounding a man being healed on the Sabbath day was a sign (the third of seven signs in the first eleven chapters of John’s gospel), which pointed to something beyond the person being healed. This sign – the healing of an individual – pointed to the healing of the nation. It pointed to that which the entire nation could experience, if the nation would repent, in accord with the message being proclaimed. What message is this? It’s the message of the kingdom.
Matt 3:2

2 And saying, Repent ye: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.
KJV

Matt 4:17

17 From that time Jesus began to preach, and to say, Repent: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.

23 And Jesus went about all Galilee, teaching in their synagogues, and preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing all manner of sickness and all manner of disease among the people.

24 And his fame went throughout all Syria: and they brought unto him all sick people that were taken with divers diseases and torments, and those which were possessed with devils, and those which were lunatick, and those that had the palsy; and he healed them.

25 And there followed him great multitudes of people from Galilee, and from Decapolis, and from Jerusalem, and from Judaea, and from beyond Jordan.
KJV

That was the reason for Jesus’ precise directive to His disciples:

Matt 10:5-8

5 These twelve Jesus sent forth, and commanded them, saying, Go not into the way of the Gentiles, and into any city of the Samaritans enter ye not:

6 But go rather to the lost sheep of the house of Israel.

7 And as ye go, preach, saying, The kingdom of heaven is at hand.

8 Heal the sick, cleanse the lepers, raise the dead, cast out devils: freely ye have received, freely give.
KJV

The seven signs recorded in the first part of John’s gospel begin with the marriage in Canaan of Galilee in chapter two and end with the resurrection of Lazarus in chapter eleven. These signs were directed to the Jewish people, and for a specific reason. Paul explained that as he clarified a confusion that was brewing among the Corinthian believers.
1 Cor 1:20-22
20 Where is the wise? where is the scribe? where is the disputer of this world? hath not God made foolish the wisdom of this world?

21 For after that in the wisdom of God the world by wisdom knew not God, it pleased God by the foolishness of preaching to save them that believe.

22 For the Jews require a sign, and the Greeks seek after wisdom:
KJV

It was to these Jews that the offer of the kingdom of the heavens was extended – given to them during Christ’s earthly ministry to call Israel’s attention to things surrounding the message being proclaimed which should have resulted in belief:
John 20:30-31

30 And many other signs truly did Jesus in the presence of his disciples, which are not written in this book:

31 But these are written, that ye might believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believing ye might have life through his name.
KJV

The Gk word for “sign [semieion]” appears seventeen times in John’s gospel. However, in thirteen of these seventeen times, the word has been translated “miracle” [KJV], which, for the purposes intended by the use of the word semeion, is misleading. The sign was a miraculous work; but the word semeion means “sign” not “miracle,” and should have been so translated throughout this gospel.

Spiritually, Israel was sick – a fact which the signs being performed directly addressed. Israel had been sick for centuries, which was a matter dealt with extensively in the OT. The prophet Isaiah, over seven hundred years before Christ appeared to Israel, possibly described Israel’s condition at the beginning of his prophecy as well as any other prophets:
Isa 1:4-6

4 Ah sinful nation, a people laden with iniquity, a seed of evildoers, children that are corrupters: they have forsaken the LORD, they have provoked the Holy One of Israel unto anger, they are gone away backward.

5 Why should ye be stricken any more? ye will revolt more and more: the whole head is sick, and the whole heart faint.

6 From the sole of the foot even unto the head there is no soundness in it; but wounds, and bruises, and putrifying sores: they have not been closed, neither bound up, neither mollified with ointment.
KJV

Isaiah’s prophecy, part of the Scriptures in Israel’s possession at the time this sign was manifested, described Israel’s condition during Isaiah’s day, looking towards the future captivities of (the Assyrian [722 B.C.] and the Babylonian [605 B.C.]). But this condition (resulting from Israel’s disobedience [Lev. 26; Deut. 28]), for lack of Israel’s repentance, remained unchanged during the centuries which followed; and this was the condition in which the nation Israel found itself when Messiah appeared.

When Israel’s Messiah appeared, He, through a manifestation of signs, showed the Jewish people what they could have, if the nation repented. The nation could experience this healing (though spiritual) which individuals were experiencing, if they repented. The entire nation, if the nation would repent, could experience supernatural healing and provision within the proffered kingdom. The Jewish people, not understanding their own Scriptures, failed to grasp and understand both their true condition (sick, “from the sole of the foot even unto the head”) and the significance of the manifested signs in connection with the message concerning the kingdom (proffered healing and provision within the kingdom).

Beyond that, this healing of an individual occurred on the Sabbath day, pointing within the sign to that future day when Israel will be healed. Had the Jewish people understand the significance of their own Sabbath (given by Moses as a sign [Exo. 31:12-17]) and the significance of a man being healed on the Sabbath day (a sign in connection with the sign of the Sabbath), would have been able to understand exactly what was occurring. Instead, they saw only what they wanted to see – a person breaking the law of the Sabbath; and sought to slay Him for the act.

A sign dealing with this same thing is also seen in John chapter nine (the sixth sign in John’s gospel), where reference is again made to Moses. In this chapter of John’s gospel, Jesus is again seen healing a man on the Sabbath day – pointing again to that which the entire nation could experience, if….(vv. 6-14).

This time though, there was an open division among those observing the sign, and this division was within the ranks of the Pharisees themselves. Some questioned the sign on the basis that it was done on the Sabbath; but others couldn’t overlook the miraculous work itself, openly questioning, how this man, if a sinner, could do such things:
John 9:16

16 Therefore said some of the Pharisees, This man is not of God, because he keepeth not the sabbath day. Others said, How can a man that is a sinner do such miracles? And there was a division among them.

Note, according to Nicodemus’ earlier statement [John 3:1, 2], all of the Pharisees were probably aware of that which only part of them confessed – the true identity of Christ. And those who didn’t want to acknowledge the validity of that which had been done, sought to counter the sign through viewing it as a violation of the Sabbath, as had been done by those observing the earlier sign performed on the Sabbath, recorded in chapter five.

At this point though, rather than attack Christ (as He had been by those recorded in chapter five) they attacked the one who had been healed – first through the individual himself (vv. 10-17), then through his parents (vv. 18-23) and then through the individual again (vv. 24-33).

Seeking to discredit that which had been done through both the individual and his parents proved unsuccessful. But, still knowing that the miraculous sign had been performed by “the heir” of the vineyard, the Pharisees attempted the only thing that was left. They attempted to do away with the sign itself by taking the man who had been healed and casting him outside: John 9:34

34 They answered and said unto him, Thou wast altogether born in sins, and dost thou teach us? And they cast him out.

If one is to properly understand the offering of the kingdom of the heavens to Israel, he must understand the place of signs, wonders, and miracles; in both the first offer as well as the reoffer in the Book of Acts.

Signs, wonders and miracles have to do with two things – (1) Israel, and (2) the kingdom – and both Israel and the kingdom must be in view at the same time for signs, wonders, and miracles to exist. If there is an absence of either one (Israel or the kingdom), signs, wonders, and miracles, as seen throughout the gospel accounts and the Book of Acts, cannot exist. Signs/miracles in the Church today are manmade and not according to Scripture.

THE KING DID OFFER THE KINGDOM

2008-05-04T02:58:00.000-07:00

THE OFFER AND REJECTION OF THE KING AND THE KINGDOM

There are so many different interpretations and explanations regarding the kingdom; what it is, where it is and when it is, etc. I would like to share a study on the King and His kingdom as I understand it in Scripture.

The King and the kingdom are inseparably joined in Scripture. Many would have gladly received the kingdom and its blessings, but they refused Jesus as King. They resented the call to repentance, assuming they were entitled to the kingdom because they were “sons of Abraham.”

JESUS AND THE KINGDOM MESSAGE

The first recorded conversation of Christ about the kingdom is with Nicodemus:

John 3:3, 5

3 Jesus answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.

5 Jesus answered, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God.
KJV

Nicodemus did not understand what this meant, so Jesus explained:

John 3:6

6 That which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit.
KJV

A new birth is the foundational requirement for all those who would have a part in Christ’s kingdom for it brings together the Messiah’s work as Saviour and King, and solves the sin problem which must be taken care of first. The benefits of Christ’s work are received by believing or trusting in Him (John 3:16).

Israel had tried to keep the law and enter into the promises made in the Mosaic covenant, but had found themselves totally incapable. To meet this need, God promised, in the new covenant, forgiveness of sins and that the Spirit of God would work in the hearts and indwell believers. This is what Jesus spoke of as being born again. It is not only necessary for a person to be born again to see or enter Christ’s kingdom but also to receive eternal life. It is obtained by faith. In the first summer of Jesus’ ministry following His discourse with Nicodemus, Jesus and John the Baptist carried on parallel ministries in the land of Judea, where they preached that “the kingdom of God is at hand.” When John publicly reproved Herod Antipas for living wit his brother’s wife, Herod put John into prison. Jesus returned to Galilee and taught in the synagogues, saying:

Mark 1:15

15 And saying, The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand: repent ye, and believe the gospel.
KJV

[See also Matt. 4:17; Luke 4:15. It would be interesting to consider what the “gospel” is].

It is important to see that Jesus presented Himself as the King and offered the kingdom unto Israel. This can be traced through every period of His ministry.

THE SERMON ON THE MOUNT

In the Sermon on the Mount Jesus gave His standard of righteousness for the kingdom:

Matt 5:20

20 For I say unto you, That except your righteousness shall exceed the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees, ye shall in no case enter into the kingdom of heaven.
KJV

The scribes and Pharisees thought they were alright and that they alone would be accepted by God because of their knowledge of the law and their many traditions. (Does that have any similarities to the religious leaders of today? Most preachers don’t want to hear anything about the kingdom and even if they do they explain it their way and not according to Scripture). But Jesus was actually saying, “This is not enough. You must be born again. You must have the righteousness that I alone can give.” In Matthew 5 Jesus taught that outward conformity to the law and traditions was not enough. God requires an inward conformity to the law as promised I the new covenant in order to enter His kingdom. In chapter 6 He said that religious observances are not enough, and in addition, they are often done in a hypocritical manner. The teaching brought Him into sharp conflict with the scribes and Pharisees. (The more things change, the more they remain the same).

SIGNS OF THE KINGDOM

Jesus’ ministry was validated by sign-miracles which can be divided into four main classes:
1.Miracles/signs of nature
2.Miracles/signs of physical healing
3.Miracles/signs over demons
4.Miracles/signs over death

Starting in the spring of A.D. 27, when Jesus changed water into wine, He performed sign/miracles in every period of His ministry. These sign/miracles had at least a threefold purpose: (1) they showed that He was God, (2) they brought kingdom conditions wherever He ministered, [remember He was the King offering the kingdom to Israel], and (3) they fulfilled the Old Testament prophecies.

KINGDOM CONDITIONS FORESHADOWED

It is interesting to compare the results of these miracles with the prophesied conditions of the kingdom. For instance, turning water into wine and feeding the four thousand and the five thousand points to times of plenty. The land will be very productive and there will not be famine or lack of food in the coming kingdom.

The physical healing reminds us of the prophecy that life will be greatly extended and the curse of disease lifted. The casting out of demons foreshadows the time in the kingdom when Satan will be bound and the forces of evil greatly restricted. The sign/miracles over death remind us that the believers who have died will be raised to have their part in the kingdom, and eventually death itself will be abolished.

FULFILLING OLD TESTAMENT PROPHECIES

After John the Baptist had been in jail about a year, he began to wonder if Jesus was really the Messiah, so he sent some of his disciples to ask. Jesus performed a special series of sign/miracles that day to answer their question and told them to go back and tell John:

Luke 7:22

22 Then Jesus answering said unto them, Go your way, and tell John what things ye have seen and heard; how that the blind see, the lame walk, the lepers are cleansed, the deaf hear, the dead are raised, to the poor the gospel is preached.
KJV

These were the Old Testament prophecies of the Messiah – His credentials (Isa. 29:18-19; 35:5-6; 61:1).

A few weeks before Jesus had healed a leper and sent him down to Jerusalem to show himself to the priest. The leper was to be a special testimony to them, but the Jewish leaders did not receive this testimony (Mark 1:40-44). Two years later, just before He was crucified, Jesus healed ten more lepers and told them to do the same thing. One was a Samaritan, so it is doubtful that he would go to Jerusalem, but this would still be a ninefold sign/miracle to prove His Messiahship (Luke 17:11-19).

A careful study of sign/miracles should give us a better understanding of their purpose and when understood there will be no need to try to mimic them today. Signs were for the Jews, and they all had reference to the kingdom offered to them:

1 Cor 1:22

22 For the Jews require a sign , and the Greeks seek after wisdom:
KJV

THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN JESUS' AND JOHN'S BAPTISM

2008-05-01T04:15:00.000-07:00

JESUS’ BAPTISM BY JOHN

When Jesus came to John and asked to be baptized, John hesitated, for he thought he should be the one baptized by Jesus. Various explanations have been given for Jesus’ baptism. It can be definitely stated that Jesus was not baptized for the forgiveness of sin and He was not repenting of sin, because the Scriptures say that He was without sin:

Heb 4:15

15 For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin.
KJV

Some have suggested that He was identifying Himself with the nation of Israel, but the reason that Jesus gave was that He wanted to “fulfill all righteousness”.

Matt 3:15

15 And Jesus answering said unto him, Suffer it to be so now: for thus it becometh us to fulfil all righteousness. Then he suffered him.
KJV

Immediately after this baptism in water, He was anointed by the Spirit of God:

Matt 3:16

16 And Jesus, when he was baptized, went up straightway out of the water: and, lo, the heavens were opened unto him, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove, and lighting upon him:
KJV

These two things, His sinlessness and anointing – make His baptism different from all others.

JESUS’ ANOINTING FOR MINISTRY

Priests were anointed for ministry:

Ex 30:30

30 And thou shalt anoint Aaron and his sons, and consecrate them, that they may minister unto me in the priest's office.
KJV

Kings were also anointed:

1 Sam 16:13

13 Then Samuel took the horn of oil, and anointed him in the midst of his brethren: and the Spirit of the LORD came upon David from that day forward. So Samuel rose up, and went to Ramah.
KJV

God had some prophets anointed although the Scripture does not record a formal anointing with oil for most of them:

1 Kings 19:16

16 And Jehu the son of Nimshi shalt thou anoint to be king over Israel: and Elisha the son of Shaphat of Abel-meholah shalt thou anoint to be prophet in thy room.
KJV

JESUS’ MINISTRIES

One of the ministries of the Messiah was that of a priest. The book of Hebrews speaks of Jesus as being of a new order of priesthood after the order of Melchizedek. But since Jesus was a Prophet, a Priest, and a King, and of a newer and greater order than of any of the Old Testament, God would not have to exactly follow any Old Testament patterns. After all, they only pointed toward His ministry.

It would appear that as Jesus began His ministries, He was symbolically washed in baptism, anointed by the Holy Spirit, and accepted by the Father. The Father gave His approval by saying:

Matt 3:17

17 And lo a voice from heaven, saying, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.
KJV

The Father also identified Him as “His Son,” the promised King of Psalm 2:6-12. Christ assumed His ministries not by virtue of any ritual or human ordination but by God’s appointment and approval. It seems reasonable to understand that God was presenting Jesus to the nation of Israel in this way and in a manner reflecting these Old Testament teachings.

Note that Jesus did not begin all three of these ministries at the same time. He performed a prophetic ministry at His first coming, He entered into His high-priestly ministry at His ascension, and His Kingly ministry will begin at His second coming.

WATER, ANOINTING, AND BLOOD

One element is missing in the symbolism of the Old Testament – the blood:

Heb 9:21-22

21 Moreover he sprinkled with blood both the tabernacle, and all the vessels of the ministry.

22 And almost all things are by the law purged with blood; and without shedding of blood is no remission.
KJV
[See also Lev. 8:12, 23].

On the day of Atonement the high priest first offered a sacrifice for himself and then for the nation; but because Jesus was sinless, no personal sacrifice was necessary.

No animal sacrifice would do for Christ because He was going to minister by virtue of “His own blood:”

Heb 9:12

12 Neither by the blood of goats and calves, but by his own blood he entered in once into the holy place, having obtained eternal redemption for us.
KJV

After His temptation when He demonstrated His holiness, John the Baptist pointed Him out as “the Lamb of God” (John 1:29). We are redeemed by “the precious blood of Christ as the Lamb without blemish and without spot” (1 Pet. 1:19).

BAPTISMAL DISTINCTIONS

John’s baptism was of repentance and directed towards the nation:

Matt 3:2
Repent ye: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.
KJV

The promised King had arrived and was ready to set up His kingdom. Jesus’ disciples practiced the same baptism of repentance (John 4:1-2). As we have seen Jesus’ baptism by John was different. Therefore, Christian baptism practiced after Pentecost and after Christ’s death and resurrection is also different. It has a different formula: “…In the name of the Father, Son, and the Holy Ghost” (Matt. 28:19). There is also a new and deeper meaning as we symbolically are identified with His death, burial, and resurrection (Rom. 6:3-6). But this identification is not just with His past; we are also identified with His glorious future. We are called as kings and priests unto God (1n Pet. 2:9; Rev. 1:6). As Christ’s new body, the Church, we continue His prophetic ministry by proclaiming the gospel to the world – speaking for God to man. We have a present and future ministry as priests – speaking for man to God. When Christ returns and establishes His kingdom those that overcome will rule with Him – ruling men for God. Baptism symbolizes what faith in Christ’s death has accomplished for us: we have been cleansed, anointed, and called to share in the ministry of Jesus as prophets, priests, and kings.

MESSIAH IDENTIFIED BY JOHN

After Jesus returned from His forty days of temptations, John the Baptist pointed Him out as “the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sins of the world” (John 1:29). Some of John’s disciples came and acquainted with Jesus and later became His disciples. Andrew went and told his brother Simon that he had found the Messiah (John 1:41). Philip and Nathaniel exclaimed; “We have found him, of whom Moses in the law, and the prophets, did write” (John 1:45). After Nathaniel had met Jesus, he said, “Rabbi, thou art the Son of God; thou art the King of Israel” (John 1:49).

SYMBOLS OF CLEANLINESS FOR THE KINGDOM

2008-04-30T03:52:00.000-07:00

CLEANLINESS IN PREPARATION FOR THE KINGDOM

The washings that were used in the Jewish tradition to symbolize cleansing or purity, all a picture of one purifying himself in preparation for the kingdom.

LEPROSY

In the Old Testament, Leprosy was a type of sin and death. Lepers were to be excluded from society, wear mourning costumes, rend their clothes, leave the hair head uncovered, and keep a covering over their upper lip and cry, “Unclean, unclean” (Lev. 13:45). Leprosy is a vivid symbol of how sin will contaminate the whole person and ultimately bring death.

A specific ceremony prescribed for the purification of persons cured of leprosy was given in Leviticus 14, and one part of the ceremony included the cleansing with water:

Lev 14:8

8 And he that is to be cleansed shall wash his clothes, and shave off all his hair, and wash himself in water, that he may be clean: and after that he shall come into the camp, and shall tarry abroad out of his tent seven days.
KJV

THE RED HEIFER

After preparing the ashes of a red heifer, which were used to cleanse from the defilement of death, the priest washed his flesh and his clothes. Defilement from the dead lasted seven days. The ashes were placed in a vessel, where living (running) water was poured upon them; then a branch of hyssop was dipped into the mixture and sprinkled upon the one defiled on both the third and seventh day, after which he had to wash his clothes and bathe his flesh. Death, of course, was the greatest of all defilements (Num. 19).

HAND WASHING TRADITIONS

In the time of Christ, ceremonial hand-washing was very important to the Pharisees. One rabbi is said to have starved in prison during the late Maccabean period because his captors wouldn’t give him enough water to ceremonially wash his hands. Another is quoted as saying, “He who eats bread without hand-washing is as if he went in to a harlot.” Jesus was criticized because His disciples did not practice the tradition (Matt. 15:1-20).

Cunningham Geikie in his book: Life and Works of Christ – 2:203-4; gives a good description of what the tradition of hand-washing was like:

“It was laid down that first the hand was to be washed clean. The tips of the ten fingers were then joined and lifted up so that the water ran down the elbows, then turned down so that it might run off to the ground. Fresh water was poured on them and they were lifted up, and twice again as they hang down. The washing itself was done by rubbing the fist of one hand in the hallow of the other. When the hands were washed before eating they must be held upwards; then after it, downwards, but so that the water could not run beyond the knuckles. The vessel used must be held first in the right, then in the left hand; the water was to be poured first on the right, then on the left hand, and at every third time the words repeated “Blessed art thou who hast given us the command to wash the hands.”
It was keenly disputed whether the cup of blessing or hand-washing should come first; whether the towel used should be laid on the table or on the couch; and whether the table should be cleaned before the final washing or after it”

LIVITICAL DEFILEMENTS, PROSELYTES, AND ENTERING A COVANANT

Alfred Edersheim has an interesting comment about the use of water and washings; in his work – The Life and Times of Jesus the Messiah, 1:273-4.

“What John preached, that he also symbolized by the rite which, though not new itself, yet in its application, was wholly new. Hitherto the Law had it, that those who had contacted Levitical defilement were to immerse before offering sacrifice.

Again, it was prescribed that such Gentiles as became “proselytes of righteousness,” or “proselytes of the Covenant,” were to be admitted to full participation in the privileges of Israel by the threefold rites of circumcision, baptism and sacrifice-the immersion being, as it were, the acknowledgement and symbolic removal of moral defilement, corresponding to that of Levitical uncleanness. But never before had it been proposed that Israel should undergo a “baptism of repentance,” although there are indications of a deeper insight into the meaning of Levitical baptisms.

Was it intended, that the hearers of John should give this as evidence of their repentance, that, like persons defiled, they sought purification, and, like strangers, they sought admission among the people who took on themselves the role of God? These two ideas would, indeed have made it truly a “baptism of repentance.” But it seemed difficult to suppose, that the people would have been prepared for such admissions; or, at least, that there should have been no record of the mode in which a change so deeply spiritual was brought about.

May it not rather have been as, when the first Covenant was made, Moses was directed to prepare Israel by symbolic baptism of their persons (Gen. 35:2) and their garments (Exo. 19:10, 14) so the initiation of the new Covenant, by which the people were to enter into the kingdom of God, was preceded by another general symbolic baptism of those who would be the true Israel and receive, or take on themselves, the Law from God? In that case, the rite would have acquired not only a new significance, but be deeply and truly the answer to John’s call. In such a case also, no special explanation would have been needed on the part of the Baptist, nor yet such spiritual insight on that of the people as we can scarcely suppose them to have possessed at that stage. Lastly, in that case nothing could have been more suitable, nor more solemn, than Israel in waiting for the Messiah and the Rule of God, preparing as their fathers had done at the foot of Mount Sinai.”

PREPARATION FOR A PRIESTLY MINISTRY

The priests had to wash themselves each time at the laver of brass before they went into the tabernacle to minister. Even more significance can be seen in the high priest’s ministry on the Day of Atonement. Before he ministered he was told:

Lev 16:4

4 He shall put on the holy linen coat, and he shall have the linen breeches upon his flesh, and shall be girded with a linen girdle, and with the linen mitre shall he be attired: these are holy garments; therefore shall he wash his flesh in water, and so put them on.
KJV

As a nation of priests they needed a spiritual cleansing before they could minister for Messiah. The spiritual cleansing that John called for is accomplished by the “washing of regeneration” (Titus 3:5) or new birth promised under the new covenant. It was only symbolized by water baptism, but the symbolism would have been something that the Jews understood.

Baptism is one of the ordinances given by God and should be obeyed but does not necissarily make the believer clean.

John 13:10
10 Jesus saith to him, He that is washed needeth not save to wash his feet, but is clean every whit: and ye are clean , but not all.

KJV

JOHN'S MESSAGE

2008-04-29T04:02:00.000-07:00

REPENT, FOR THE KINGDOM OF HEAVEN IS AT HAND

JOHN’S MESSAGE

In the summer of A.D. 26 God raised up a voice in the wilderness, John the Baptist. Clothed in Camel’s hair wit a leather girdle, John was an unusual person who ate locusts and wild honey while he lived in the wilderness and preached in Judea along the Jordan River. His message was “Repent ye: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand….Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make His paths straight” (Matt. 3:2, 3). He is identified as fulfilling the prophecy of Isaiah 40: 3-5.

Luke 3:4

4 As it is written in the book of the words of Esaias the prophet, saying, The voice of one crying in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make his paths straight.
KJV

The people knew something unusual was happening because Scripture was being fulfilled right before their very eyes.

Luke 3:6

6 And all flesh shall see the salvation of God.
KJV

It is easy to understand why John called the nation to repentance. The Messiah’s kingdom was to be a kingdom of holiness and righteousness, and Israel had been promised a special place and ministry in the kingdom; (they needed to be holy). They were to be a nation of priests (Exo. 19:6; Lev. 11:44). But under the Mosaic covenant it was clearly shown that priests who were defiled could not minister. This nation was defiled by sin and wickedness, and therefore, John was calling for its repentance.

Many people thought that John was the Christ, but he declared that he was not and that One was coming after him who was greater than he. To emphasize this contrast, he said:

Matt 3:11

11 I indeed baptize you with water unto repentance: but he that cometh after me is mightier than I, whose shoes I am not worthy to bear: he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost, and with fire:
KJV

JOHN’S BAPTISM

There has been much controversy throughout the centuries about baptism, the rite which appears upon the scene in the New Testament without explanation. While baptism was something new, it was not foreign to the Jewish system of thought, for it was related to purifying, as shown by John.

John 3:25-26

25 Then there arose a question between some of John's disciples and the Jews about purifying.

26 And they came unto John, and said unto him, Rabbi, he that was with thee beyond Jordan, to whom thou barest witness, behold, the same baptizeth, and all men come to him.
KJV

SIRITUAL PURITY SYMBOLIZED BY WASHING:

In the Scriptural as well as traditional background of the Jews at least six different washings were used to symbolize cleansing or purity:

1.The cleansing of lepers
2.Purification from the defilement of death by ashes of the red hefier.
3.Hand washing traditions
4.Becoming a proselyte.
5.Entering into a covenant.
6.Preparations for the priestly ministry.

In the next post I will be looking at the previous list of washings that symbolizes cleansing or purity.

THE KING IS ON THE SCHENE PREPARING FOR THE KINGDOM

2008-04-28T05:28:00.000-07:00

ADVENT AND PREPARATIONS OF THE KING

There is a great lack of understanding in regards to God’s programme and the scheme of things as they relate to Israel and the Church. There is even the belief among some believers today (who often refer to themselves, ‘true believers’); that the Church Age has already ended. But what does the Bible teach concerning these important truths?

God’s plan as seen in the very beginning of Scripture is to make it possible for man to be restored to fellowship with Himself, and for the ruined creation to be restored; that man can again have dominion. The key figure in this plan was the coming of Jesus Christ as the God-Man, who provides redemption and will eventually reign as King of kings and Lord of lords. All enemies will be put down; the curse will be lifted from the creation; all blessings will be restored; and additional blessings will be given. Israel was also one of the instruments that God used to bring about His plan, (though they have been set aside because of their disobedience).

Samuel Andrew in his book; The Life of Our Land upon the Earth – Pg. 125 says:

“The Lord came to a nation in covenant with God – His elect people. He had chosen for them a land in which they might dwell apart from the other nations, and in a wonderful manner had given them position of it. He had given them laws and instructions, which, if rightly used, should secure their highest national well-being. He had established His temple in their chief city, in which He revealed Himself in a Visible Glory, and which was appointed to be “a house of prayer for all nations.” How highly they had been honored and blessed of God is seen from His words (Exo. 19:5, 6)

Ex 19:5-6

5 Now therefore, if ye will obey my voice indeed, and keep my covenant, then ye shall be a peculiar treasure unto me above all people: for all the earth is mine:

6 And ye shall be unto me a kingdom of priests, and an holy nation. These are the words which thou shalt speak unto the children of Israel.
KJV

Also from among them should the Great Deliverer, the Seed of the woman, come and judgment throughout the earth.”

JESUS CHRIST AS THE MESSIAH

There were enough Old Testament prophecies given that a birth certificate could have almost being filled out for Jesus in advance of His birth. The prophecies and testimonies given before and at the time of Jesus’ birth clearly points to Him as the Messiah, the Saviour King, says Ray E. Baughman in his book; The Life of Christ Visualized.

The angel Gabriel announced to Mary that the child she would bear would be (a) called the Son of the Most High, (b) given the throne of His father David, (c) reign over the house of Jacob forever, and (d) and of His kingdom there would be no end. All these promises were fulfilled by God in the Davidic Covenant (Luke 1:31-33).

The angel appeared unto Joseph in a dream and told him that the child that Mary would bear was conceived by the Holy Ghost (of the seed of the woman Gen. 3:15) and that He would save His people from their sins (Matt. 1:20-21).

Angels announced the Prince of Peace to the shepherds and said, “For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord…..Glory to God in the highest, and on the earth peace, good will toward men” (Luke 2:11-14). One of the greatest characteristic of the coming kingdom is peace.

“Where is He that is born King of the Jews?” (Matt. 2:2) the wise men asked Herod. Herod, the chief priests and scribes, and all Jerusalem were troubled by the arrival of the wise men as they announced that He was to be born in Bethlehem as the prophet Micah said (Mic. 5:2), and that is exactly where the wise men found Him. The giving of gifts to Him by the wise men foreshadowed the worship of the nations of the world in the kingdom as they will come pay tribute to Christ (Ps. 86:9; Isa. 66:23; Zec. 14:16-19). The amazing thing about the birth of Christ is the utter lack of response on the part of “religious” Israel. There is no evidence that the religious leaders journeyed the five miles to Bethlehem to see if the Messiah had been born. With the exception of King Herod’s brief attempt to kill anyone who would be a threat to his throne and the brief Passover appearance when Jesus was twelve years old, the next thirty years slipped by with Israel being un aware that their Messiah had come.

LIFE IN THE KINGDOM Part 5

2008-04-27T04:50:00.000-07:00

THE GEOGRAPHICAL CONDITIONS OF THE MILLENNIAL KINGDOM

The warfare, invasion, and judgment of God of the great tribulation will all leave their mark upon the land. The first that comes to mind is, the Mount of Olives will split in two when the Lord returns.

Zech 14:4

4 And his feet shall stand in that day upon the mount of Olives, which is before Jerusalem on the east, and the mount of Olives shall cleave in the midst thereof toward the east and toward the west, and there shall be a very great valley; and half of the mountain shall remove toward the north, and half of it toward the south.
KJV

There will be great topographical changes to the center of the land of Palestine. A great plain will be raised up.

Zech 14:10

10 All the land shall be turned as a plain from Geba to Rimmon south of Jerusalem….
KJV

Geba is about six miles north of present-day Jerusalem and Rimmon, thirty miles south of Jerusalem. This evidently will be referred to as the mountain of the Lord’s house.

Isa 2:2

2 And it shall come to pass in the last days, that the mountain of the LORD's house shall be established in the top of the mountains, and shall be exalted above the hills; and all nations shall flow unto it.
KJV
[See also Mich. 4:1]. Those geographical changes seem to be in preparation for the building of the millennial temple and the New Jerusalem described in Ezekiel.

DIVISION OF THE LAND

God promised Abraham that He would give him the land (Gen. 15:18). In Ezekiel 47:13-48:35 He gives detailed instruction concerning this division. The northern border is at Hamath, which is about 160 miles north of Jerusalem (47:15-17). The southern border is “from Tamar unto the waters of strife in Kadesh, and to the river towards the great sea” (48:28). The western border is the great sea or the Mediterranean (47:20). The eastern border appears to run along a line from Damascus to the Sea of Galilee and the Jordan River to the Dead Sea (47:18). Clarence Larkin, because of God’s promise to Abraham, extends these grants to the river Euphrates (Gen. 15:18) - [Dispensational Truth, Pg. 95].

The reed and the cubit. In understanding the exact divisions of the land it is necessary to know that the cubit was used in Egypt, Israel, Greece and Babylon, but the exact length differed. There was the normal cubit and the royal cubit, which was longer by about a hand breadth. Unger says the ancient Babylon used three cubits. The smallest was 10.8 inches or three palms, the second was four palms or 14.4 inches, and the third was five handbredths or eight inches. He says:

“As the prophet was very specific in stating the unit of measurement in his vision as a “cubit and a hand breadth” (40:5; 43:13), he, no doubt, meant the smaller cubit of three hand breadths as a basic measure, plus one hand breadth, or what is equivalent to the middle cubit of 14.4 inches. Upon his calculation the reed would be 7.1 inches.” [Merrill F. Unger, Great Neglected Bible Prophecies, Pg. 67]

There are several reasons for choosing this size cubit, the most important being that of measurements given for the division of the land fit within the boundaries of the land to be divided.

Tribal divisions. In the division of the land among the twelve tribes, Levi has no part, but Joseph’s two sons, Ephraim and Manasseh, each has a part. Levi will receive his inheritance in the part set aside as the holy oblation. The northern tribe is Dan, followed by Asher, Naphtali, Manasseh, Ephraim, Reuben and Judah (Ezek. 48:1-7). Under the holy oblation came the tribe of Benjamin, Simeon, Issachar, Zebulun and Gad (48:23-29). It is interesting that the last two tribes to go into captivity, Judah and Benjamin, are given land adjoining God’s portion. At the time the kingdom was disrupted under Rehoboam they remained true to the house of David, so perhaps this is their reward. The land itself within the tribal protions is to be divided by lot (48:29).

Holy oblation. In the midst of the land will be the holy oblation, which is to be 25000 reeds long and 25000 reeds high. Using a 7.2 foot reed, it would be about 34 miles each way. The top section, which will be given to the Levites, is 10000 reeds wide and 25000 long (48:13-14). The center section 10000 reeds wide, is given to the priests (48:10-12). In the center of the priest’s section the temple is built. The southern section, which is 5000 reeds wide, is set aside as a profane (common) place for the city, the suburbs, and farming areas. The city with its suburbs will be about six-miles square (48:15-17). In Bible times, Jerusalem was never over one mile wide. The farming area on each side of the city will be 5000 reeds wide, and 10000 reeds long (48:18). This makes the total holy oblation 25000 reeds square (48:20).

Location of the New Jerusalem. If the holy oblation is located upon the great plain mentioned in Zechariah 14:10, New Jerusalem will be south of the present site. Note that the new temple will not be located in New Jerusalem. Isaiah describes the New Jerusalem (65:18-23); it should not be confused with the heavenly Jerusalem described by John in Revelation 21:2. During the Millennial Kingdom the new city of Jerusalem will have twelve gates named after the twelve tribes of Israel (Rev. 21:12).

While the temple will not actually be built within the city limits, Jerusalem will be capital of Israel and, because Israel will be the foremost nation in the world, it will be the most important city in the world because it will be where the Lord’s throne is.

The river of the sanctuary. From the temple will flow a river of living water which will go down to the city of Jerusalem and divide, with one part going to the Mediterranean Sea and one to the Dead Sea. On each bank of the stream will grow trees, the fruit of which will be for meat (food), and whose leaves that never fade can be used for medical purposes. When the waters enter the Dead Sea it will make it fruitful so that fish can live there in abundance (Ezek. 47:1-12). Some feel that there will be a literal highway called “the Way of Holiness” from Jerusalem to the Millennial Temple.

Isaiah 35 speaks of the beauty and wonders of the kingdom after the curse of nature has been lifted.

Isa 35:8-10

8 And an highway shall be there, and a way, and it shall be called The way of holiness; the unclean shall not pass over it; but it shall be for those: the wayfaring men, though fools, shall not err therein.

9 No lion shall be there, nor any ravenous beast shall go up thereon, it shall not be found there; but the redeemed shall walk there:

10 And the ransomed of the LORD shall return, and come to Zion with songs and everlasting joy upon their heads: they shall obtain joy and gladness, and sorrow and sighing shall flee away.
KJV

Prince’s portion. The area between the holy oblation and the Great Sea on the west and between the holy oblation and Jordan on the east will be given to the prince and is called the prince’s portion (Ezek. 45:7-9).

Jerusalem described. The city itself will be a square of 4500 cubits. There is a space of 250 cubits on each side, making a total of 5000 cubits per side. Residence in the city will be an honour and will be regarded as a public service. The twelve gates are named after the twelve tribes of Israel, and the population will represent all twelve tribes (48:19). Whether they will reside permanently in the city or not, is not stated. Alfred Ederaheim in his book, The Temple, Its Ministries and Services Pg. 83: describes Christ’s reign:”The number of priests to be found at all times in Jerusalem must have been very great, and Ophel a densely inhabited quarter. According to Jewish tradition, half of each the twenty-four courses into which the priesthood were divided, were permanently resident in Jerusalem; the rest scattered over the land. It is ordered, that about one-half of the latter had settled in Jericho and were in the habit of supplying the needful support to their brethren while officiating in Jerusalem.”

Ezekiel, in speaking of the city lands adjacent to the city, says that they “shall be for food unto them that serve the city” (48:18).

After the Babylonian captivity there was a problem in peopling Jerusalem:

Neh. 11:1-2

11:1 And the rulers of the people dwelt at Jerusalem: the rest of the people also cast lots, to bring one of ten to dwell in Jerusalem the holy city, and nine parts to dwell in other cities.

2 And the people blessed all the men, that willingly offered themselves to dwell at Jerusalem.
KJV

John Skinner in his work: The Book of Ezekiel, The Expositor’s Bible, Pg. 495 says, “There may have been causes for this general reluctance which are not known to us, but the principle reason was doubtless the one which has been hinted at, that the new colony lived mainly by agriculture, and the district in the immediate vicinity of the capitol was not sufficiently fertile to support a large agricultural population.” While there was reluctance after the Babylonian captivity, probably there will be an eagerness to live in Jerusalem during the kingdom. Perhaps again lots will be cast to determine who will dwell and serve at Jerusalem among Israel. This would be apart from any assigned positions that the Lord might give His resurrected believers.

With all the difficulties that we might undergo during this age, be encouraged; there is a great day coming when those that have overcome will experience great joy in the presence of Christ.

LIFE IN THE KINGDOM Part 4

2008-04-26T04:22:00.000-07:00

SOCIAL CONDITIONS

PEACE

The history of the human race has been one long succession of wars and conflicts, which is one of the works of the Devil brought about by sin. When man sinned he had declared war on God. Instead of being in submission to Him and dependent upon Him, he rebelled because he wanted to become independent. When man is out of fellowship and has enmity with God he cannot get along with his fellowmen. War has proven costly in money, foolish in results, and wasteful in lives. At times man has ended his wars, but peace is short-lived when God is left out. In recent years man has attempted to use the World Court, the League of Nations, and the United Nations, and now cries are heard about the necessity of a world police force. In the end time, the world will give power to a strong leader who will promise “peace and safety” (1 Thess. 5:3). He is a false Messiah or the Antichrist.

Remember Jesus came as the Prince of Peace (Isa. 9:6). At His birth the angels announced it:

Luke 2:14

14 Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.
KJV

Although the Prince of Peace was rejected by the nation of Israel, He made it possible for man to have peace with God (Rom. 5:1-10). Through the ministry of the Holy Spirit, He made it possible for man to have the piece of God (Gal. 5:22). But there will be wars and rumors of wars to the very end time (Matt. 24:6), and the greatest wars that the world will ever see will usher in the kingdom age [Christ’s rule] (Isa. 2:12-22).

There will be intervals of peace in the world, don’t expect too much from all the “peace-plans” that you see world leaders now initiate; when Christ comes to take over He will bring permanent peace (Mich. 4:1-5).

Harman Hoyt in his book, “The End Times” pg, 229 says:

“There will be a socialization of saved elements of society. This is accomplished by the complete organization of society into segments of divisions over which administrators such as kings would preside (Rev. 21:24). This will produce an efficient industrialization of society so that the gifts, skills, and artistry of men can be utilized to create benefits for mankind that will constitute their glory and honor (Rev. 21:24, 26). The dynamic for this constructive enterprise will be the sufficient idealization consisting of His Highness, the eternal Son of God. Infinite purpose for man in Christ will provide an ever receding horizon for ambition.”

ONE LANGUAGE

It was as a result of the sin of rebellion, God confused the tongues at the tower of Babel (Gen. 11:6-9), and the miracle at the Day of Pentecost for-shadowed the time in which man will again speak a common language. When Jesus reigns on earth, He will restore the unity of the language that man had before the tower of Babel. Clarence Benson explains in his book: “The Earth the Theater of the Universe” Pg. 130.

“The cause of the confusion of tongues will be removed and all of the people will use the same language, which will not only unite the race and remove the possibilities of misunderstandings, but also add greatly to its common comfort and happiness. Zephaniah predicts, “Then will I turn to the people a pure language, that they may all call upon the name of the Lord, to serve Him with one consent” (3:9).”

The word “language” in Zephaniah 3:9 is the Hebrew word for “lip” and is the same word used in Genesis 11:1. This switch to one language will probably be a global change, because at the beginning there are men who used many languages going up to Jerusalem to worship (Zec. 8:23). What that “official language” will be is not revealed, it could be Hebrew. We do not know what the pre-Babel language was, nor that it will be restored; but only that we will understand and communicate in a pure language.

LIFE IN THE KINGDOM Part 3

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HEALTH CONDITIONS IN THE MILLENNIUM

Sickness is the work of the Devil:

Acts 10:38

38 How God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Ghost and with power: who went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil; for God was with him.
KJV

Jesus came to destroy the Devil’s work (1 John 3:8). Sin brought sickness into the world, and since Satan was the agent in the temptation, he is indirectly the cause of all sickness. Adam had been warned:

Gen 2:17

17 But of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, thou shalt not eat of it: for in the day that thou eatest thereof thou shalt surely die.
KJV

Or literally, “Dying ye shall die.” While sin brings death (Rom.6:23), yet sickness and death are God’s way of overruling evil for good. Because He did not want man to live forever in his sinful state (Gen. 3:15), He provided a way of redemption.

Why are you sick? The world is spoilt by sin and sickness may come from four different causes:

1.Some sickness comes from exposure to disease germs or virus.
2.Some comes as a judgment of God, for example the plagues in Egypt (Exo. 9:8-10).
3.Some comes to Christians as a discipline of God (1 Cor. 11:30). Paul spoke of his “thorn in the

flesh” and the reason for it (2 Cor. 12:9).
4.Some are attributed to the Devil (Acts 10:38; Luke 13:11-13, 16; Job 2:3-7). However, the

Devil’s power is limited by God, as seen in the story of Job.

Sin can only be attributed to Satan in four ways:

1.It may be for a purpose permitted by God, as in the case of Job.
2.It may be as a consequence of yielding to temptations. Many sins such as social diseases and

drug abuse bring sickness.
3.One man’s sin may bring sickness and suffering to an innocent one, such as a drunken driver

or a hereditary disease.
4.Satan may lead us to break God’s laws of physical health. However, all our ignorance shouldn’t

be blamed on Satan.

Satan is at war against God. If he can turn man away from God by prospering them or distressing them, he will surely do so. If he can afflict man and then win them over by removing the affliction, he will do this too. Some miraculous cures come from him using this method of operation. In the “age” to come, Satan will be bound except for one brief interval before his final judgment.

A part of Christ’s preparation for the kingdom is the removal of the curse of sin and that includes sickness:

Ps 103:3

3 Who forgiveth all thine iniquities; who healeth all thy diseases;
KJV

Isa 53:5

5 But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed.
KJV

Healing is the atonement. There is healing in the atonement, the only question is, when will its blessings be given to man? In His earthly ministry, Jesus demonstrated His power over all kinds of earthly diseases-blindness, deafness leprosy and palsy-and brought kingdom conditions wherever He went. In the present age, He heals at times in answer to prayers, but not every time (2 Cor. 12:9). During this age, God still uses sickness for His glory, giving man the opportunity to give or to receive the love of others and to see His faithfulness. In the kingdom age, (Christ’s rule) the curse of sickness and disease will be lifted.

Isa 33:24

24 And the inhabitant shall not say, I am sick: the people that dwell therein shall be forgiven their iniquity.
KJV

Isa 35:5-6

5 Then the eyes of the blind shall be opened, and the ears of the deaf shall be unstopped.

6 Then shall the lame man leap as an hart, and the tongue of the dumb sing………
KJV

Life shall be lengthened. Life will be lengthened during Christ’s rule:

Isa 65:20

20 There shall be no more thence an infant of days, nor an old man that hath not filled his days: for the child shall die an hundred years old; ……
KJV

There will be a tremendous increase in the birthrate:

Jer 30:19-20

19 ….. And I will multiply them, and they shall not be few; I will also glorify them, and they shall not be small.

20 Their children also shall be as aforetime, and their congregation shall be established before me, and I will punish all that oppress them.
KJV

LIFE IN THE KINGDOM Part 2

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The material kingdom was cursed: “Cursed is the ground for thy sake” (Gen. 3:17). The vegetable kingdom is cursed: “Thorns also and thistles shall it bring forth to thee” (Gen. 3:18). Before the curse, all Adam had to do was to dress and keep the garden (Gen. 2:15), but after the curse he was told that he would earn his bread “in the sweat of thy face” (Gen. 3:19).

The animal kingdom is cursed: The curse is placed upon the serpent in Genesis 3:14, but it was not until Noah came out of the Ark that fear of man was placed on animals. “And the fear of you and the dread of you shall be upon every beast of the earth, and upon every foul of the air, and upon all that moveth upon the earth, and upon the fishes of the seas; into your hand are they delivered. Every moving thing that liveth shall be meat for you; even as the green herb have I given you all things” (Gen. 9:2, 3).

Creation shall be delivered from this bondage:

Rom 8:21-23

21 Because the creature [creation] itself also shall be delivered from the bondage of corruption into the glorious liberty of the children of God.

22 For we know that the whole creation groaneth and travaileth in pain together until now.

23 And not only they, but ourselves also, which have the firstfruits of the Spirit, even we ourselves groan within ourselves, waiting for the adoption, to wit, the redemption of our body.
KJV

The curse on nature will be lifted, in a large measure, at the beginning of the millennial era, at the time of the “redemption” of the body.

Isa 35:1-2, 6-7
35:1 The wilderness and the solitary place shall be glad for them; and the desert shall rejoice, and blossom as the rose.

2 It shall blossom abundantly, and rejoice even with joy and singing: the glory of Lebanon shall be given unto it, the excellency of Carmel and Sharon, they shall see the glory of the LORD, and the excellency of our God.

6 Then shall the lame man leap as an hart, and the tongue of the dumb sing: for in the wilderness shall waters break out, and streams in the desert.

7 And the parched ground shall become a pool, and the thirsty land springs of water: in the habitation of dragons, where each lay, shall be grass with reeds and rushes.
KJV

Ezek 34:26

26 And I will make them and the places round about my hill a blessing; and I will cause the shower to come down in his season; there shall be showers of blessing.
KJV

At the start of Christ’s reign, the vegetable kingdom will have its curse lifted too:

Ezek 34:27

27 And the tree of the field shall yield her fruit, and the earth shall yield her increase, and they shall be safe in their land, and shall know that I am the LORD, when I have broken the bands of their yoke, and delivered them out of the hand of those that served themselves of them.
KJV

Isa 55:13

13 Instead of the thorn shall come up the fir tree, and instead of the brier shall come up the myrtle tree: and it shall be to the LORD for a name, for an everlasting sign that shall not be cut off.
KJV

Amos 9:13-14

13 Behold, the days come, saith the LORD, that the plowman shall overtake the reaper, and the treader of grapes him that soweth seed; and the mountains shall drop sweet wine, and all the hills shall melt.

14 And I will bring again the captivity of my people of Israel, and they shall build the waste cities, and inhabit them; and they shall plant vineyards, and drink the wine thereof; they shall also make gardens, and eat the fruit of them.
KJV

Because of the change in nature and the fruitfulness of the soil and peace upon the earth, there will be a material prosperity that the world has never known (Ps. 72:16). Labour problems will be solved (Isa. 65:21-25; Amos 9:13-14; Ezek. 36:29-30).

And what about he animal kingdom? There will be peace between animals and between man and animals.

Isa 65:25

25 The wolf and the lamb shall feed together, and the lion shall eat straw like the bullock: and dust shall be the serpent's meat. They shall not hurt nor destroy in all my holy mountain, saith the LORD.

Isa 11:6-9

6 The wolf also shall dwell with the lamb, and the leopard shall lie down with the kid; and the calf and the young lion and the fatling together; and a little child shall lead them.

7 And the cow and the bear shall feed; their young ones shall lie down together: and the lion shall eat straw like the ox.

8 And the sucking child shall play on the hole of the asp, and the weaned child shall put his hand on the cockatrice' den.

9 They shall not hurt nor destroy in all my holy mountain: for the earth shall be full of the knowledge of the LORD, as the waters cover the sea.
KJV

Hos 2:18

18 And in that day will I make a covenant for them with the beasts of the field, and with the fowls of heaven, and with the creeping things of the ground: and I will break the bow and the sword and the battle out of the earth, and will make them to lie down safely.
KJV

The curse will be lifted from the material, vegetable and animal kingdom and from the weather so there will be no storms or drought except as a disciplinary measure (Zac. 14:16-19). There will be an increase of light:

Isa 30:26

26 Moreover the light of the moon shall be as the light of the sun, and the light of the sun shall be sevenfold, as the light of seven days, in the day that the LORD bindeth up the breach of his people, and healeth the stroke of their wound.
KJV

This is just a glimpse of what Christ’s reign will be like, there is much more to be mentioned. No wonder the Scripture says:

2 Cor 4:17-18

17 For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory ;

18 While we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen: for the things which are seen are temporal; but the things which are not seen are eternal.
KJV.