Book On the 2nd Coming of Christ

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Chapter 4 continued

Now notice the last statement which I quoted, “But thou art the same, and thy years shall have no end.” This verse gives us further insight into the nature and character of God. Notice that the statement is made that God is the same and his years shall have no end. To be qualified as the same, you must be 100% the same every second of every minute of every hour of every day of every week etc. for all of eternity. If you change anything on even the slightest variation, then the word same cannot apply. Not only that, but to even imply that God has changed in any form, fashion, way, style or any other word that would be applicable would be to say that God is not perfect. Total perfection means there is nothing that can be or needs to be changed.

To imply change gives only two options. You change for the worse, or you change for the better. Seeing how God is 100% holy and righteous, has no sin, is impossible for Him to sin and is perfect in everything that he has done and will do, God is the only one who can be qualified as the same. As far as getting any better, how could it be possible for the ever present, all knowing and all powerful God of Heaven to get any better? The answer is that it cannot be done. He already knows everything, he is everywhere at all times and everything is open before him; and being all powerful means that you have all ability to do anything that you want to do; and having all power means that you can do all things. God is already perfect in all ways. Therefore to God belongs the title “the same.”

The next verse we need to examine is found in the book of Hebrews and testifies about Jesus Christ and his nature. Notice Hebrews 13:8 which states, “Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and to day, and for ever.” As we look to this verse, we must be willing to admit that it is straight forward and states the obvious. Seeing how God is the only one who can be qualified as the same, then the text in Hebrews not only tells us that Jesus has been and will be consistent with who he is, but also by his very nature and being, is the same. Whether it was before he took upon himself a body of flesh, or at the age of 12 when he was found in the temple reasoning the scriptures and even through the events of the death, burial, resurrection and ascension, Jesus has been the same and Jesus will be the same through all eternity.

The last verse that we will use to round out our fact that God is 100% consistent with who he is and what he does is found in the book of James. James 1:17 states, “Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning.” As we look to the truths that we can glean from this scripture let us as always be honest with what is established by God’s Word. We all know and believe that everything that we have in our lives that is good and perfect comes down from God. To think any differently is contrary to the Word of God. Faith, hope and love are all of God. The abilities that we have are all God-given. Even children are a heritage from the Lord. The truth that everything we have that is good is from God and is self evident, so we will just look to the last two statements in this verse.

“With whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning.” The word variableness carries the idea of being fickle. God is not fickle. He does not have the ability to be inconsistent. He has no shadow of turning. He looks neither to the right or the left. His face is like flint and he goes one direction and one only. He stands, walks, lives and breathes His Word. God is 100% consistent with His Truth and with the application of His Truth.

Let us recap and examine the 4 main thoughts that I want us to glean from the scriptures that we have just looked into:

The God of all is self-existent and does not change. In view of this unchangeable nature, Jacob shall not be consumed. Malachi 3:6

Even though the heavens and the earth shall pass away, God shall remain and God is the only one who can be labeled the same. Psalm 102:26-27

Jesus Christ is the same in all past, present and future context. Hebrews 13:8

God is not fickle and he has not one ounce of variableness in him. He is the same always and is headed in one direction and one only. James 1:17

We can see by the above scriptures that God does not change. He is always one direction and one direction only. He has no shadow of turning and is the only one who can be labeled as the same. Too many people today are inconsistent with the Word of God when it comes to interpretation. Let us be consistent because God is consistent. Our third fact that we will add to our list is that God is the same and consistent in everything he does.

 

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Chapter 5
Fact 4
The Forever Settled
Word of God!

Lets us again note our list of facts that we might keep them in the forefront of our minds. They are as follows:

Our 1st fact is that we are presently in the time frame that is known as “The Church Age.”

Our 2nd fact is that the saints are the saved. The word elect is applied unto the saved and is a word that describes our position that we have in Christ.

Our 3rd fact is that God is 100% consistent. By his very nature he is the only one who is qualified to be called “the same.” He is the same for all eternity. He does not change and has no shadow of turning in him.

The next fact we will establish is the fact that God’s Word is tested, tried and forever settled in heaven. God’s Word is not only tested, tried and forever settled, but is also eternal. It never ceases to amaze me when it comes to the critics, mockers and those who would reject the Word of God. I want everybody who fits the above descriptions to carefully consider this chapter. Throughout the ages men and women have come and gone. Many of these men and women died as a rejecter of the Word of God. They have gone to their graves being critical of the Word of God and have mocked it to scorn. The interesting fact is that these people are dead and gone, but the Word of God is still being preached and taught throughout the world. So, as we consider the following scriptures, let us all be honest with what God has to say about His Word and the fact that everything he has stated is true. Notice the following scriptures.

Psalm 18:30 states, “As for God, his way is perfect: the word of the Lord is tried: he is a buckler to all those that trust in him.” As we consider this verse let us notice what this man writes under inspiration.

“As for God, his way is perfect.” God is perfect in everything that he does. He does not make mistakes or errors. Not only is everything he does perfect, but it is also right. To think or assume that God makes mistakes is to be wrong. God’s way is in total perfection and, if you will notice what this word means, then you can begin to understand. This word perfect carries the idea of and means to be “without spot, undefiled, complete and sound.” It also means to “be upright, and full of integrity.” God’s way is upright and full of integrity and his way is perfect.

“The word of the Lord is tried.” The word tried as used here means “to be refined and purified.” Built into this description is the idea that God’s Word has been refined, tried and tested. As a matter of fact, the Bible teaches that God’s Word has been purified and tried 7 times. Notice Psalm 12:6. The use of the number seven shows completion. The Word of God has been so tested and tried that, in essence and truth, it is 100% without blemish and is the only pure truth that is to be found. God’s Word is absolute truth and is absolutely refined, tried and complete.

“He is a buckler to all those that trust in him.” The last truth we can glean from this verse is that God is a shield unto those that trust in him. This bears out all through the Bible. When Satan came before God and tried to bring Job down, even Satan recognized that God had built up a hedge around Job to the extent that nothing could get to him. Note Job 1:9-10. The Bible also teaches that if God is for us, then who can be against us? Notice Romans 8:31. If you will trust in God and follow His Son, then God will be a shield to you and nobody can get to you unless God allows it.

The main thought I want you to remember is that God’s Word is tried and tested. It is complete, without blemish and has been proven by the test of time and history. The word of the Lord is tried and pure. Believe it and trust in it because all else is lies and fables.

The next thing that I want us to consider is the fact that the Word of God is eternal. Notice 1st Peter 1:23-25 which states, “Being born again, not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, by the Word of God, which liveth and abideth for ever. For all flesh is as grass, and all the glory of man as the flower of grass. The grass withereth, and the flower thereof falleth away: but the Word of the Lord endureth for ever. And this is the word which by the gospel is preached unto you.” Let us consider the facts about these verses.


“Being born again, not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, by the Word of God, which liveth and abideth for ever.” We can notice many things from this verse like the fact that our birth is a birth that is of an incorruptible source. That source is the Word of God and we know this to be true.

The Bible teaches us in Romans 10:17, that “… faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the Word of God.” Without a doubt, our birth from above is according to the Word of God, but I want us to notice the last statement which is, “which liveth and abideth forever.” Seeing how God is eternal, it only makes sense that His Word would live and abide forever. The Word of God will be here when everything else has been brought to desolation.

“For all flesh is as grass, and all the glory of man as the flower of grass. The grass withereth, and the flower thereof falleth away…” You know that every human being that has been born has gone the way of the grave. Generations have come and gone. Peoples and nations have risen and then fallen in decay. Everything that man builds eventually crumbles to dust and yet humanity in its own arrogance believes that societies and civilizations can be built to survive eons. Everything that man does and all our pomp, ceremony and glory fade and eventually cease to exist. Let us open our eyes to this truth and start storing up treasures in heaven. Just like grass that withers and burns up and just like the flower comes forth, fades and burns quickly, everything that man does falls to the ground and withers, rusts or crumbles to dust.

Chapter 5 continued in next post

 

[dcontroversal]

Chapter 5 continued

“But the Word of the Lord endureth forever. And this is the word which by the gospel is preached unto you.” The third truth that I want us to glean is another nail in the coffin when it comes to the truth of God’s Word being eternal. If you will notice, we see that this verse states plainly that the Word of the Lord endures forever. Forever means forever. The Word of God is eternal and will last beyond what we can even begin to comprehend as forever. The eternal Word of God is based upon the eternal God. Humanity cannot even begin to understand forever. We in our finite minds cannot grasp the infinite. We will just have to take it on faith and believe that the Word of the Lord is eternal and shall be “around” forever. If you will notice, it is by this same eternal abiding word that the “correct message” is preached unto you.

The main thoughts I want you to grasp from the above scripture in 1st Peter 1:23-25 is that God’s Word is eternal and it shall endure forever. Let us make our stand on the everlasting, enduring, eternal Word of God.

The next thought that I want us to consider is the fact that the Word of God if forever settled in heaven. If you will notice Psalm 119:89 which states, “For ever, O Lord, thy word is settled in heaven.” This verse is absolute in its teaching. We can glean an outstanding eternal truth from this verse and, as we dissect this verse, let us believe and trust in the eternal Word of God. Notice the following truths.

The word settled means, to be established, appointed and made to stand. This verse begins with the statement For ever and means exactly that. The Word of God is established and set in place by the Almighty God. It is forever appointed and made to stand because it is upheld by the Almighty hand of God. What has been written and given by God in word form is upheld and settled. Again I think of scoffers who deny the Word of God and yet they all die and rot in the ground while the Word of God marches on converting the lost and forever changing those who will trust and obey. There is not a force in the heavens or in the earth that has the ability to over ride and change the settled Word of God in heaven. Let us stand on the settled Word of God.

Another truth that we need to establish is that the Word of God is absolute truth. Jesus said in John 17:17, “Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth.” These words come in the midst of Jesus praying unto the Father and we must stick with this context to properly understand the truths that can be gleaned from this verse. Notice what we can learn.

“Sanctify them through thy truth…” This word sanctify means “to be set apart” and is a necessary step in the Christian life if you want to be used of God and be pleasing unto God Almighty. There are many verses that teach that we are to be sanctified unto God that we can be used of God and that we might receive blessings from God. Notice 1st Chronicles 15:12, 2nd Timothy 2:21, 1st Peter 3:15 as well as others. If you will notice, it is by the truth that we are sanctified because it is the truth of God that will “set us apart” from all false religion and every evil way under the sun.

“Thy word is truth.” Remember that Jesus is praying unto the Father and this statement is made in direct relationship to the Father. Jesus, by this statement, gives weight to the fact that the word that comes from the Father is truth. Our sanctification comes from the truth that is found in the word that comes from the Heavenly Father. Since Jesus states on numerous occasions, “I tell you the truth,” and in John 14:24, “….and the word which ye hear is not mine, but the Father’s which sent me,” then it must be absolute truth that Jesus preached. If the word which comes from the Heavenly Father is truth, and it is, then the word which Jesus preached from the Father must be truth also. The Word of God is absolute truth and we must always remember this and make our stand on the truth that is found in the Word of God. Notice the truth of God’s Word as found in Psalm 25:10; Psalm 51:6; Psalm 100:5; Psalm 119:30, 43, 142, 151; Jeremiah 4:2; John 1:14, 17; Ephesians 1:13; Ephesians 4:15; Colossians 1:5; 2nd Timothy 2:15; Hebrews 10:26; James 1:18 and 1st Peter 1:22.

Let us recap a bit and establish our 4th fact in our growing list of facts. From the above scripture we can glean the following:

God’s Word is tried and tested. Notice Psalm 18:30.

God’s Word is everlasting and eternal even though all that men are and do is as the grass and flower of the field. Notice 1st Peter 1:23-25.

The Word of God is for ever settled in heaven. Notice Psalm 119:89.

The Word of God is from the Heavenly Father and is absolute truth. Jesus spoke the Words that he had received from his Heavenly Father and is equal in all aspects with the Word that comes directly from the Heavenly Father. Notice John 17:17 and John 14:24.

Our 4th fact is that the Word of God, which is of the Father and of Jesus Christ, is the eternal, everlasting, for ever settled word of truth.

 

[dcontroversal]

Chapter 6
Fact 5
Tribulation, Wrath and
Who Gets What!

Once again, here is our list of growing facts:

Our 1st fact is that we are presently in the time frame that is known as “The Church Age.”

Our 2nd fact is that the saints are the saved. The word elect is applied unto the saved and is a word that describes our position that we have in Christ.

Our 3rd fact is that God is 100% consistent. By his very nature he is the only one who is qualified to be called “the same.” He is the same for all eternity. He does not change and has no shadow of turning in him.

Our 4th fact is that the Word of God which is of the Father and of Jesus Christ is the eternal, everlasting, for ever settled word of truth.

This chapter is dedicated unto the words “wrath” and “tribulation.” One of the biggest errors that occur in the interpretation of end time events is the fact that most churches, pastors and preachers teach that tribulation and wrath are the same. As we look to the Word of God and as we examine both of these words carefully, we can easily see that these two words are not the same and they, without a doubt, apply to two different groups of people. Let us notice what the Word of God has to say about these two words and who gets what.

To begin, we need to look to the Greek words that are translated wrath and tribulation. The Greek word for wrath is pronounced “or-gay” and means “violent passion, justifiable abhorrence and by implication means punishment, anger, indignation and vengeance.” Now, as we consider the definition of the word wrath, we will notice immediately that this word describes the period of time when God will punish those who do not know Him through His Son Jesus Christ. Let us notice the following scriptures.

John 3:36 states, “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.” This scripture speaks volumes to those who understand the Word of God. This simple truth teaches us that if we believe in Jesus we have everlasting life. The reason most people miss this truth and end up in hell is because humanity always wants to complicate everything. The Bible speaks of the simplicity that is in Christ in 2nd Corinthians 11:3 and speaks of the minds that are beguiled by Satan through subtilty which leads to minds that have been corrupted away from the simplicity that is in Christ. From beginning to end the system of the Bible is based upon simple faith! Believe and confess this to God and you shall have everlasting life. Notice John 3:16, John 1:10-13, Romans 5:1, Romans 3:28 and John 6:40, 47. The second aspect of this verse teaches the flip side of the coin when it comes to unbelief. Those who will not believe in and on Jesus Christ shall not see life. To reject the Son is to reject the Father. Jesus said, “I am the way, the truth and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.” This is found in John 14:6 and teaches that the path to the Father is through the Son. There is no other path to be found that leads to the Father. To know the Father is to know eternal life. Notice John 17:1-3.

Since it is evident that to know the Father is to know life eternal then it stands to reason to not know the Father is to not know eternal life. If you want to have everlasting life you must be convicted of this simple truth by the Holy Spirit and then you must exercise simple belief into this truth and confess this belief unto God. The last truth I want us to glean in our quest of the word wrath is what this scripture states about who this wrath is directed at. “But the wrath of God abideth on him.” The wrath of God is abiding on the ones who do not believe on the Son. The indignation, punishment and vengeance of God in the form of wrath are on those who will not believe on the Son. As we look to the next set of scriptures below, notice and believe that wrath is for those who will reject the King-Messiah Jesus Christ.

The next scripture that I want us to investigate is found in Romans 1:18 which states, “For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who hold the truth in unrighteousness…” Not only do we see the wrath of God directed at those who do not believe on the Son, but we also see it directed at all forms of ungodliness and unrighteousness of men. The characteristics of these men are simply stated in the fact that they hold the Word of God in unrighteousness. In other words, they deem the Word of God wrong. The word righteous simply means to be right. To say unrighteous simply means to say that something is wrong. A prime example of a man that died believing that the Word of God is wrong is the rich man that is found in hell in Luke 16. This man on two occasions argued with Abraham about the ability of the Law and the Prophets to save his brethren. Abraham on both occasions testifies to the ability of the Word of God to save the lost. Imagine dying a disbeliever and, while you are burning in hell, still refusing to believe that God’s Word will work. God’s wrath is revealed from heaven upon all men, women and children that will reject his Son and upon all men, women and children that will deem His Word to be unrighteous and wrong. If you will take note, the wrath of God is directed at the unrighteous acts of humanity and any form of ungodliness in men who hold God’s truth in a position of unrighteousness.

The next scripture we want to look into is found in Ephesians 5:6 which states, “Let no man deceive you with vain words: for because of these things cometh the wrath of God upon the children of disobedience.” The context of this verse is set by Paul in the preceding verses and this verse comes on the heels of God thru Paul reminding us that any person who is deemed by God as a whoremonger, unclean person, or a covetous man, who is an idolater shall have no inheritance in the Kingdom of Christ and of God. Paul teaches the church which was at Ephesus that they were to not be deceived with vain words. We all know what the word deceived means – “to beguile, to be tricked or lulled into a false state of perception.” Do not be beguiled or deceived about why the wrath of God comes down upon men. In Ephesians 5:3-4 you will notice that God names off fornication, all uncleanness, covetousness and filthiness, foolish talking and jesting. In verse 5 he names off those who shall be labeled as a whoremonger, unclean person and idol worshippers. Let us notice this list of sins that God names here and understand fully that God’s wrath comes down upon the children who are disobedient. To be disobedient is to oppose and reject the Word of God. Today our society is filled with the masses that have rejected the true path. They march rank and file to their own destruction from the presence of the Lord all the while rejoicing in the ways of the world.

The next verse that we need to understand is found in Colossians 3:6 which states, “For which things’ sake the wrath of God cometh on the children of disobedience.” Again to understand this verse we must resort to context. The context of this verse is found in verse 5 which names off a list of sins that will bring the wrath of God down upon children that are disobedient. The list is “fornication, uncleanness, inordinate affection, evil concupiscence and covetousness which is idolatry.” I want to remind the reader that this is a church letter that has been written to the church which was at Colossae. God is again naming sins which bring his wrath down from heaven. As you will notice, it is the DISOBEDIENT CHILDREN which have rejected the word of God that shall receive the wrath of God. I also want to remind the reader that the underlying problem of those that shall be considered disobedient is the fact that they have not trusted in Jesus Christ as their savior. They have not been obedient to the gospel and, because they have rejected the gospel, are considered lost and disobedient. Notice Romans 6:16-17 and 1st Peter 1:22.

The next verse I want us to consider when it comes to the wrath of God is 1st Thessalonians 1:10 which states, “And to wait for his Son from heaven, whom he raised from the dead, even Jesus, which delivered us from the wrath to come.” In the preceding verses we must be honest with what is given in order to apply this verse to the correct group of people. First of all, this is a church letter that has been written to a true New Testament Church which was located at Thessalonica and we can see this from verse one. The next thought is the fact that this church had a work of faith, hope and love which is found in verse 3. In verses 4- 9 we see that these people had received the Word of God, they had become imitators of the Lord as in Christ-like; and they had become examples of what a true New Testament Church was to be like unto all of Greece and the surrounding islands to the extent that Paul and company did not need to say one thing about them because their actions were speaking louder than Paul could proclaim. What does all this say?

Chapter 6 continued next post

 

[dcontroversal]

Chapter 6 continued

This chapter tells us without a doubt that these people are believers and are members of a New Testament Church. Notice carefully that this church is instructed to wait for the return of God’s Son whose name is Jesus and that this particular Jesus has “delivered us from the wrath to come.” It is plain from the context that Paul is writing to saved, immersed Christians. Those who have trusted in Christ have been delivered from the wrath to come because they are considered by God to be justified, which is a legal term and means “to be rendered just even in light of overwhelming evidence of guilt.”

Let us notice the last scripture on wrath to give weight to the above in order to prove that those who are in Christ are delivered from the wrath of God. Notice 1st Thessalonians 5:9 which states, “For God hath not appointed us to wrath, but to obtain salvation by our Lord Jesus Christ.” This little simple verse speaks multitudes and we need to praise our God for his truth and the freedom that comes from knowing the truth. If you will notice, this verse teaches that those who are in Christ shall obtain salvation instead of an appointment with the indignation and wrath of God Almighty. God has not appointed his children to wrath, but rather, the scripture teaches that all who trust into Jesus and confess this belief before God in prayer shall be saved and, because of salvation, shall be considered justified. The result of justification is the fact that God has delivered us from wrath through Christ. Notice

Romans 5:8-10, and Romans 6:23 and John 3:15-18.

As we put the facts together, let us notice what the Bible has to say about the wrath of God and condense it down so that we can use it to interpret the events that surround the second coming of Christ.

Wrath is appointed to those people who have not trusted into the saving faith of Jesus Christ. They are the lost who are considered the disobedient. The wrath of God is revealed from heaven upon all unrighteousness and all ungodliness in those men who will consider the Word of God to be unrighteous. We will list as part of our facts that the wrath of God comes upon the lost.

The second truth about wrath is that the saved are not appointed unto wrath but to obtain salvation by our Lord Jesus Christ. The saved will be preserved from wrath and shall be saved from the wrath to come.

Before we can finish this chapter and list our new facts we must also consider the word tribulation. The word that is translated tribulation comes from the Greek word “thilipsis.” This word means “persecution, pressure, trouble and tribulation.” As we begin to look to scriptures, it is already evident that this word weighs heavy upon God’s children. All throughout the ages the people of God have been under persecution, pressure and tribulation. During the dark ages untold millions were put to death by the state church because the people refused to come once a year and confess in the ears of a mere man or because they refused to come once a year and take “holy communion.” Their names included Ana-Baptist, Waldenses, Paulicians and the Albigenses as well as the Donatists. Jesus, Stephen, Peter and Paul all suffered persecution and tribulation at the hands of government, the religious and those who presumed to be intellectual. All through the ages tribulation and persecution have been appointed to the children of God. Let us notice the following scriptures and come to a solid grasp of the word tribulation.

The first scripture comes from Jesus himself and gives us a good grasp on the future of any one who will trust and obey the word of God. Notice John 16:33 which states, “These things have I spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; for I have overcome the world.” If you will notice, Jesus is speaking to his disciples and he tells them straight up that they will have tribulation in the world. As a matter of fact he tells them in verses 1-3 of John 16 that he is instructing them early what is going to happen to them that they might not be offended when it does happen. He tells them that they will be ostracized and killed for the cause of Christ by men who believe that they are doing God service. The men that will be doing the killing do not know Jesus or his Father. We need to face the fact that persecution and tribulation have always been dished out to the children of God because we are not of this world.

The next scripture I want us to consider is

1st Thessalonians 3:4 which states, “For verily, when we were with you, we told you before that we should suffer tribulation; even as it is come to pass, and ye know.” Paul, in the very first verse of this book directs the letter to the Church of the Thessalonians, so therefore this must be a church letter which has been written to saved, scripturally immersed believers. Paul said, “Look I told you before and you already know that WE SHOULD SUFFER TRIBULATION even as it is come to pass. Here Paul instructs the church at Thessalonica that they were going to suffer tribulation. Remember that the word tribulation means “persecution” and, as we look to the next scripture, be honest with the way God uses words.

Notice what Paul writes to Timothy, who was a young pastor, in 2nd Timothy 3:12. It states, “Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution.” Having understood the definition of tribulation to include the idea and thought of persecution, we must also include this verse in our quest concerning the word tribulation and to whom it applies. Seeing how a born again Christian is not of this world and how the world lies in sin and darkness, it should not surprise us to know that every person who will live godly in Christ Jesus shall, without a doubt, suffer persecution. Go and live according to the Bible and see how much persecution and tribulation you will suffer from so called “friends.” Do what is right and see how many people will ridicule and mock you. Without a doubt, when God’s children live righteously and according to the word of God, we must expect tribulation and persecution. Jesus teaches this truth within the context of, “If they will kill the master, what will they do to the servants?” Without a doubt, tribulation is for those who know God, while wrath is for those who do not know God.

As we come to a conclusion about the words tribulation and wrath, let us be honest with what we have found. God only requires two witnesses for something to be true. I have tried to give and will continue to give at least two to three witnesses for everything that I am teaching in this book. Be submissive to God’s Word and place yourselves under its authority. Let us note the facts concerning tribulation and wrath.

Our 5th fact is that tribulation has always been appointed unto the saved while the wrath of God is for the unbelieving lost man. We have been saved from wrath through him, but in the world we will have tribulation.

 

[dcontroversal]

Chapter 7
Fact 6
God’s Word and Who
Can Understand!

Our 1st fact is that we are presently in the time frame that is known as “The Church Age.”

Our 2nd fact is that the saints are the saved. The word elect is applied unto the saved and is a word that describes our position that we have in Christ.

Our 3rd fact is that God is 100% consistent. By his very nature he is the only one who is qualified to be called “the same.” He is the same for all eternity. He does not change and has no shadow of turning in him.

Our 4th fact is that the Word of God which is of the Father and of Jesus Christ is the eternal, everlasting, for ever settled word of truth.

Our 5th fact is that tribulation has always been appointed unto the saved while the wrath of God is for the unbelieving lost man. We have been saved from wrath through him, but in the world we will have tribulation.

As we begin this chapter, we need to understand to whom the word of God is given. There are many people in the world that believe that they can know and understand the Bible. I will agree that there are some who can understand and some that know how to properly interpret the Bible, but for the most part the majority of people in the world do not have a clue about the Bible and what it teaches. As this chapter unfolds, I will submit to you, the reader, the fact that, except for the message of salvation, the Bible is given to God’s children and that no man, woman or child can even begin to understand the Bible unless they have been born of God’s Spirit. A lost man does not have the ability to spiritually discern the word of God and, seeing how God’s Word is spiritual, it takes a spiritual person to understand a spiritual word. The only message a lost man can receive is the message of salvation. The Bible teaches that the natural man cannot know the things of God, so let us look to the following scriptures and see what we can come up with. Notice the following verses.

In John 3:3 Jesus states, “Verily, verily, I say unto thee, except a man be born again, he cannot see the Kingdom of God.” As we examine this verse we must be honest with what it teaches. What does it mean to be born again? Nicodemus misunderstood Jesus and equated this statement to a physical birth and was wrong. If it is not a physical birth, then it can only be a spiritual birth. To say that a man must have a spiritual birth in order to see the Kingdom of God is not wrong. Since a spiritual birth is a birth that is from above, then it would be right to say, “except a man be born from above he cannot see the Kingdom of God.” This word see carries the idea of “being able to perceive.” A man that is not born from above cannot perceive and understand the Kingdom of God. God’s kingdom is a spiritual kingdom and you must be a saved child of God to see, understand and perceive the Kingdom of God! In order for somebody to see and perceive any kingdom in this world they would have to be born into the world. Can an unfertilized egg of a woman ever understand or see the United States or experience the state of one’s birth or residence? The answer is a resounding no. Even children who are lost during pregnancy or even the ones who are murdered in the womb will never be able to see the state in which they would have been born. In like manner, except a man be born form above, he cannot see, perceive or even begin to understand the Kingdom of God.

The second set of scriptures I want to examine is found in 1st Corinthians 2:9-15 which states, “But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them which love him. But God hath revealed them unto us by his Spirit: for the Spirit searcheth all things, yea, the deep things of God. For what knoweth the things of man, save the spirit of man which is in him? Even so the things of God knoweth no man, but the Spirit of God. Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the spirit which is of God; that we might know the things that are freely given to us of God. 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. But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned. But he that is spiritual judgeth all things…”

As we look to these verses there are many truths that we can glean. Let us be honest and truthful with what we find. The first truth that blares loudly is the simple fact that man does not have a clue what awaits those who will believe in Jesus and then prove their devotion by true love. God in 1st John 5:3 teaches that the love of God is the keeping of His commandments and His commandments are not hard to endure. Eye hath not seen, ear hath not heard and it has not even once entered into the mind of man what God has prepared for those that love Him. If you will notice, the next statement plainly states that God has revealed them unto us by His Spirit. Who is us? There are two groups of people to whom the term us can apply. In verse 1 and 2 of chapter 1 we see clearly that Paul is directing this letter to the church of God which is at Corinth; and further states that it is to those who are sanctified in Christ and then calls them “saints.” The term us can be none other than Paul, and the true New Testament Church which was at Corinth, which was made up of those that had been set apart in Christ. We must also notice that these ones who have been “sanctified in Christ” have been labeled “saints” by Paul under inspiration of God’s Spirit.

We must be honest here and conclude that unto the saved children of God is revealed the wonders that God has prepared for them that love him. We must always remember that this revealing comes down to the ability to understand the Word of God.

The next truth that we see teaches us that it is the Spirit that searcheth all things, especially the deep things of God. This word searcheth comes from the Greek Word that carries the idea of “one who is investigating, seeking and making inquiry.” Remember, our first verse in this chapter taught us that a man that has not been born from above cannot see, perceive or understand the Kingdom of God. Adding this verse to the fact that it is the Spirit that seeks out the things of God, we must conclude that a man that has not been born again with a spiritual birth from above cannot begin to search out the things of God, with emphasis on “the deep things of God.” Without a God-induced spiritual birth from above, man is without ability in the flesh to understand God’s Word!

Chapter 7 continued next post

 

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Chapter 7 continued

In the next verse, Paul drives another nail in the coffin to show us that a man must be born of the Father in order to understand the Father’s words. Verse 11 is self explanatory and tells us plainly that natural man knows only what natural man knows and can know. On the flipside of the coin, natural man does not know the things of God because only the Spirit of God can understand the things of God. Think about how true this is. Natural man and the best college-trained professors with their sound wisdom teach for fact that we came from apes or some pool of sludge. I don’t know about you, but to think that we came from some worm or some “electrified” protein-filled sludge pool is not only ridiculous, but also foolish. On top of our above fact, the Bible also teaches that the things of God are past finding out. Notice Romans 11:33-34. In view of the fact that the things of God are beyond the reach of natural man and that it is the Spirit that seeks out and knows the things of God, yea even the deep things of God, we must conclude that this is another proof that a man must have a true spiritual encounter with God which results in a redeemed believer in Christ with a born again spirit in order that you can begin to seek out the things of God.

Verse 12 really begins to hammer home the truth about the men, women and children who have a true ability to understand the Word of God. Notice what Paul states: “Now we have not received the spirit of the world, but the spirit which is of God.” Again we must be honest with the word we and who it is. We refer again to verse 1 and 2 of chapter 1 which teaches us that this can be none other than Paul and the Church which was at Corinth. In view of this fact, we must conclude that the ones who had received the spirit which is of God are indeed saved, scripturally immersed believers. Paul had met the Lord on the road to Damascus and had been scripturally immersed by Ananias and we know that in order to be a true member of one of the Lord’s churches, you must be a repentant believer that has been scripturally immersed. So unto the saved is given the spirit which is of God. If you will notice, the last part of verse 12 teaches us that God has given unto to us a spirit which is capable of knowing the things which are given unto to us freely by God. Again the word us is in reference to those that have been born again, i.e. saved.

In verse 13, we see Paul reminding the Church at Corinth that Paul was speaking words that were spiritual as opposed to worldly. He states that they did not use words which man’s wisdom teaches, but rather words that the Holy Spirit teaches. Not only did Paul teach words that were inspired and given by the Holy Spirit of God, but we also notice that Paul did not teach on a whim or come to quick untested conclusions as evident because Paul compared spiritual truths with spiritual truths in order to teach God’s Word and only God’s Word. One thing that I have learned in my personal studies is the fact that God’s word either stands together, or it falls together, period. I believe that it stands, has stood and will stand throughout all eternity. I, through world history, have seen many recorded rejecters, deniers, and mockers of the Word of God go to theirs graves while the Word of God is still with us and continues to be the all-time best seller! Paul was very diligent to teach the Word of God comparing spiritual truth with spiritual truth that he might come to correct conclusions.

Verses 14 and 15 put the cap on the subject of whom the Word of God is for and whom it is not for. Notice Paul begins verse 14 by stating that the natural man does not receive the things of the Spirit of God and the reason that he will not take and believe the things of the Spirit of God is because they are foolish unto him. Tell somebody that is morally decent that they need to be saved or they will die in their sins and wake up in hell. They will argue, deny and state that they have not stolen anything in their life or been in jail, etc. To a natural man or woman of this world, the things of God are foolish and just cannot possibly be right. Not only are they foolish and not worthy to be taken and believed, they are even beyond knowing. Notice Paul quotes, “Neither can he KNOW them, because they are spiritually discerned.” The word discerned carries the idea and means “to be judged.” The Word of God is spiritually discerned or judged and a natural man who has not been born of God’s Holy Spirit cannot know, discern, judge or even begin to find out the things of God, much less the deep things of God. Even in light of this deep truth, Paul reminds us that a man that is spiritual is able to discern and judge all things.

Of course this must be taken within the context that a man or woman is being honest with God’s Word and, in doing so, you must study the scripture in context and you must compare the Word of God with the Word of God. Being able to discern all things does not imply that one will know all things. The level of knowledge is based upon the level of discipline, the amount of time spent in the study of the Bible and prayer. The more you study and pray, the more you can know. There is no other way around it. To know the spiritual things that can be freely known and freely given from God, you must be one who has had a true spiritual birth from above and then you must put in many hours of honest study in order to know the Word of God.

When it comes to understanding the Word of God we can see clearly by many other scriptures that it is God that gives the understanding. Notice Luke 24:45, Ephesians 1:17-18, 2nd Timothy 2:7 and 1st John 5:20, just to name a few.

Based upon the above facts, the Bible teaches that a man, woman or child who has not been born from above cannot see the Kingdom of God. Included within this truth is the fact that God’s Word is spiritual in nature and origin, i.e. the Word has a spiritual source. Only someone who has been born of God’s Spirit can receive and understand the Word of God. Lost man is incapable of knowing and receiving God’s Word because it is foolish unto him and neither can he know and understand, because the Word of God is spiritually judged.

Our 6th fact is that, except for the message of salvation, the Word of God and the ability to understand the Word of God is unto those who have been born from above by the Holy Spirit of God. Included within these facts is the truth that a lost man is incapable of understanding, knowing and receiving the Word of God, much less being able to perceive and see the Kingdom of God.

 

[dcontroversal]

Chapter 8
Fact 7
Two Resurrections and
Who Stands Where!

As we begin this chapter let us take note and consider our growing list of facts that we must use in order to properly interpret the events that surround the Second Coming of Jesus Christ. Notice the following and be honest with the foundational truths that are proven by the scriptures that we have considered.

Our 1st fact is that we are presently in the time frame that is known as “The Church Age.”

Our 2nd fact is that the saints are the saved. The word elect is applied unto the saved and is a word that describes our position that we have in Christ.

Our 3rd fact is that God is 100% consistent. By his very nature he is the only one who is qualified to be called “the same.” He is the same for all eternity. He does not change and has no shadow of turning in him.

Our 4th fact is that the Word of God which is of the Father and of Jesus Christ is the eternal, everlasting, for ever settled word of truth.

Our 5th fact is that tribulation has always been appointed unto the saved while the wrath of God is for the unbelieving lost man. We have been saved from wrath through him, but in the world we will have tribulation.

Our 6th fact is that, except for the message of salvation, the Word of God and the ability to understand the Word of God is unto those who have been born from above by the Holy Spirit of God. Included within these facts is the truth that a lost man is incapable of understanding, knowing and receiving the Word of God, much less being able to perceive and see the Kingdom of God.

As we look to the truths found in the Word of God concerning the number of raptures or resurrections, let us be honest and truthful with what we will find. I will say in the beginning that the Bible teaches two resurrections. One resurrection applies to the born again believers in Christ who shall be given glorified bodies so they can inherit the Kingdom of God and shall be judged by God and receive their reward and inheritance in Christ. The other is the resurrection of the lost only to be judged by the first five books of the Bible. They, the lost, shall be found guilty and shall be cast into the lake of fire where they shall weep, wail and gnash their teeth in eternal darkness separated from God for all eternity where the worm never dies. The best way to prove the number of resurrections and who stands where is to open the Holy Bible and begin. Notice the following truths.


Revelation 20:4-6 states, “And I saw thrones, and they that sat upon them, and judgement was given unto them: and I saw the souls of them that were beheaded for the witness of Jesus, and for the Word of God, and which had not worshipped the beast, neither his image, neither had received his mark upon their foreheads, or in their hands; and they lived and reigned with Christ a thousand years. But the rest of the dead lived not again until the thousand years were finished. This is the first resurrection. Blessed and holy is he that hath part in the first resurrection: on such the second death hath no power, but they shall be priests of God and of Christ, and shall reign with him a thousand years.”

The very first statement that is made by John is in reference to seeing thrones and on these thrones is a group to which judgement is given. It is obvious by the context that this group is judged by God and part of the judgement is the fact that God allows this group to sit on thrones and rule because they gave up their lives for the cause of Christ. Notice, that John also takes note of the fact that within this group are those who have been beheaded because they had a witness for Jesus, they had the word of God, they had not worshipped the beast or his image and they had not taken the mark of the beast. We know and can see that this group that has been beheaded must be indicative of the group that is named in the first part of the verse that are sitting on thrones because this group that has been beheaded gets to live and reign with Jesus Christ for a thousand years. Notice the last part of verse 4.

So, we have a group that has been put to death for the cause of Christ who are now ruling and reigning with Christ. Verse 5 states, “But the rest of the dead lived not again for a thousand years.” Between verse 4 and 5 we have two groups of people. We have a group that has been beheaded for a witness and testimony of Christ which set on thrones ruling and reigning with Christ for a thousand years and a group of people that live not again for the thousand years. It is obvious that this must be a distinction between the saved and the lost because of the statement found in the latter part of verse 5-6 which states, “This is the first resurrection. Blessed and holy is he that hath part in the first resurrection: on such the second death hath no power, but they shall be priests of God and of Christ, and shall reign with him a thousand years.”

If you will notice, the ones who are raised in the first resurrection are considered blessed and holy. It is the ones in the first resurrection that get to reign with Christ a thousand years while the second group waits their 2nd death. Not only is the first resurrected group considered holy, they shall also be priests of God and of Christ. God will not have a lost, unbelieving man be one of his priests. It is obvious that the saved are the ones in the first resurrection based upon the fact of why they were killed. They had a witness of Jesus. The only way you can have a witness of Jesus is if you are a saved child of God. They also had the Word of God. Seeing how the Word of God can only be understood and applied in a fruit bearing way is if the man, woman or child is a born again believer that has had a new spiritual birth. They also did not receive the mark of the beast and did not worship his image. It can be none other than the saved children who are resurrected in the first resurrection because the of the statement in verse 6 which plainly teaches that the ones who are first resurrected are beyond the power and reach of the second death, which is eternal separation from God into the lake of fire. We get this from the next set of scriptures that we find in Revelation 20.

Revelation 20:12-15 states, “And I saw the dead, small and great, stand before God; and the books were opened: and another book was opened, which is the book of life: and the dead were judged out of those things which were written in the books, according to their works. And the sea gave up the dead which were in it, and death and hell delivered up the dead which were in them: and they were judged according to their works. And death and hell were cast into the lake of fire. This is the second death. And whosoever was not found written in the book of life was cast into the lake of fire.”

These 4 verses testify unto the judgement of the lost before the eternal righteous God. John, in his vision, sees the dead stand before God. Notice that these people are standing before God, but are called the dead. This group of people who are labeled dead even though they stand can be none other than the lost. We must remember that even Jesus referred unto the living lost as dead. When the man said let me go bury my father first and then I will come follow thee, Jesus said unto those present “let the dead bury the dead.” This is found in Matthew 8:22 and teaches us that the Lord considered a man that was alive and breathing to be dead. Here in Revelation 20:12 it is obvious that this verse testifies of all humanity that has died without Christ as their Savior.

Chapter 8 continued next post

 

[dcontroversal]

Chapter 8 continued

As these dead stand before God, there are several books opened and I believe that the first group of books that is opened are the first 5 books of the Bible which is titled “The Law.” The next book to be opened is the book of life. We must remember that the Bible states clearly that Jesus Christ is the “end of the law” to those that believe; because the blood of Christ has been applied to a true believer, and in doing so renders the believer as justified, which is a legal term meaning that person has been “judged and rendered just.” The legal application of the word justified is based upon the grace of God and the faith and blood of Jesus Christ which has redeemed us. The word redeemed means “to be bought back”; and as with any transaction that takes place, there is a price to be paid when it comes to buying a servant back. The price was the precious blood of Christ as of a lamb without blemish or spot. Notice Romans 10:4 which states, “For Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to every one that believeth”; Romans 3:24 which states, “Being justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus” and Romans 5:1a which states, “Therefore being justified by faith…”

Seeing how Christ is the end of the law to those that believe and their names are written in the book of life, we must conclude that the first set of books must be the five books of the law because the second opening is the book of life which is cross referenced to see if the names of the dead of all the ages can be found. Notice also that the dead which are mentioned here had not taken part in the blessed first resurrection which is indicative of their lost state and their not having the blood of Christ applied to their souls.

The next truth that we notice in Revelation 20:13 is that the sea gives up all of the dead which were in it. We must assume that it is every lost person who had ever perished in the sea. Included within the group that is judged by the law is “death and hell” which deliver up all of the dead in them. The word hell here is the word which would be better translated “the grave.” In reality, the word death carries the idea of “the separated” seeing how death is “separation.” We could rightfully say that the grave gave up all the dead in them and the place of separation, i.e. death, gave up the dead which were in them. We must conclude that the statement made about all the dead that were delivered up from death, hell and the sea is indicative of the lost being gathered and made to stand again before God to be judged and cast into the lake of fire. I must remind the reader that the word resurrection comes from two Greek words and means “to stand again.”

In verse 14, we can see clearly that separation and the grave, i.e. death and hell, are cast into the lake of fire which is the eternal abode of the angels that left their first estate and those people who will leave this world without Jesus Christ as their personal Savior. Not only are these two cast into the lake of fire, but we also see John write under inspiration of God’s Spirit that this without a doubt is the second death. Remember that those who stand in the first resurrection are blessed, holy and exempt from the second death. Remember that the second death includes all of those who have missed the rapture and are still in the grave, i.e. hell. It also includes all of those who are in the sea which have missed the rapture as well as those who are separated from God because of separation, i.e. death.

In verse 15 of Revelation chapter 20, we see a profound truth that we must be honest with. We must realize the only way that my name, your name or anyone’s name will ever make the book of life is if God himself writes your name in it. Notice what verse 15 states, “And whosoever was not found written in the book of life was cast into the lake of fire.” Whosoever means whosoever! Red, yellow, black, brown or white skin tone means nothing, male or female means nothing, young or old makes no difference and for sure, rich or poor has no bearing on the fact that everybody dies and you are either written in the book of life and make the first resurrection or you are caused to stand again in the lot of those whose names are not found in the book of life. If your name is not found written therein, you will be judged by the 5 books of the law and you shall be found guilty and you will be cast into the lake of fire to burn for all eternal ages separated from God and family in eternal punishment with no hope of time served or parole.

There is one other truth that I would like to add to the proof that when it comes to death that there are two, and only two, possible destinations for a human spirit. If you will turn and study Luke 16:19-31, you will find Jesus telling us of two men. One was rich and had everything that he needed in life. The other was a poor beggar who was so full of sores that dogs came and licked. Both of these men died; and the rich man lifted up his eyes in hell and he was in torments, which is a word that carries the idea of “being tortured”; and the poor beggar whose name is Lazarus was carried by angels unto Abraham’s Bosom which would have been understood to be Paradise. Paradise or hell, one or the other, every man, woman or child must choose. They can choose to see all the signs of God in creation and seek to know him or reject God and die lost. My prayer is that if you do not know Jesus as your personal Savior that you will fall on your knees and confess to God in prayer that you believe his Word and want to be born again because you have believed in His Son Jesus Christ and have trusted him as your Savior. Trust and obey for there is no other way.

As we consider the scripture that we have just studied, we must agree and believe that there is to come two resurrections: One resurrection of those that shall be considered blessed and holy which can be none other than the saved. Notice Revelation 20:6. There is also the resurrection of the lost which shall include the lost being judged by the law, found guilty and cast alive into the lake of fire only to suffer the torment of God’s punishment for all eternal ages to come with no possibility of parole or time served. Make no mistake about it, the lost will burn forever. Notice Revelation 20:12-15 and Revelation 14:11.

Our 7th fact is that there are two resurrections found in the Bible. One is of the blessed, holy people who are the saved and we must note that the second death shall have no power over the born again believer. The second resurrection is of the lost which shall include the verdict of guilt as pronounced by the 5 books of the law that shall result in the lost being cast from the presence of God into the lake of fire where they shall burn for all eternal ages.

As we begin to move on and establish even more facts that we will use to biblically interpret scriptures and events that surround the Second Coming of Christ, I must implore you to be honest with the two to three witnesses that we have used to prove every fact. If you will be honest with what we find in the Word of God and if you will trust the scriptures that we look to, then you will begin to see the truth. The more you see will cause you to be even more faithful unto the Lord if you will just, in simple faith, believe every word that is found in the Word of God and act upon the truth that it reveals.

 

[dcontroversal]

Chapter 9
Fact 8
God Marks off Time In Days!

Our 1st fact is that we are presently in the time frame that is known as “The Church Age.”

Our 2nd fact is that the saints are the saved. The word elect is applied unto the saved and is a word that describes our position that we have in Christ.

Our 3rd fact is that God is 100% consistent. By his very nature he is the only one who is qualified to be called “the same.” He is the same for all eternity. He does not change and has no shadow of turning in him.

Our 4th fact is that the Word of God which is of the Father and of Jesus Christ is the eternal, everlasting, for ever settled word of truth.

Our 5th fact is that tribulation has always been appointed unto the saved while the wrath of God is for the unbelieving lost man. We have been saved from wrath through him, but in the world we will have tribulation.

Our 6th fact is that, except for the message of salvation, the Word of God and the ability to understand the Word of God is unto those who have been born from above by the Holy Spirit of God. Included within these facts is the truth that a lost man is incapable of understanding, knowing and receiving the Word of God, much less being able to perceive and see the Kingdom of God.

Our 7th fact is that there are two resurrections found in the Bible. One is of the blessed, holy people who are the saved and we must note that the second death shall have no power over the born again believer. The second resurrection is of the lost which shall include the verdict of guilt as pronounced by the 5 books of the law shall result in the lost being cast from the presence of God into the lake of fire where they shall burn for all eternal ages.

Our 8th fact will give strong weight to the fact that God has marked off time and, that from the beginning God has used and will use particular days to fulfill His will. I will freely admit that God is not subject to time nor, indeed, can be because of the underlying truth of God’s nature which is self-existence and everlasting. Even though God is eternal, he uses days to fulfill his will. As we look to the Word of God, we need to establish and believe that God works through days to exercise His will. I don’t know if you noticed or not, but I just like to go straight to the source of all wisdom and knowledge which is the Word of God. Notice what the word of God has to say about days.

Genesis 1:1-5 states, “In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth. And the earth was without form and void: and darkness was upon the face of the deep. And the Spirit of God moved upon the face of the waters. And God said, Let there be light: and there was light. And God saw the light, that it was good: and God divided the light from the darkness. And God called the light day, and the darkness he called Night. And the evening and the morning were the first day.” I will assume that the reader believes that God created all things and to even list the scriptures that teach this basic, foundational truth would require about 10 pages. Knowing that God created all things and believing this truth is a must for any man, woman or child that desires to know the God of the Universe. We also learn from this small text that the Holy Spirit of God was also involved with creation and “moved upon the face of the waters.” As we begin to go deeper here, we notice other truths that blare loudly.

God in His infinite wisdom decides to illuminate His creation with light and, as we consider this for a moment, we soon realize that the first thing required for the presence of God is light (1st John 1:6-7). Now, if you will notice, God divides the light from the darkness and he calls it day. It is interesting to know that the eternal God jumpstarts His creation with light and then divides light from darkness and calls it the first day. As we will begin to see, the God of Heaven works His will and His way through a 24 hour time frame that is a division between light and darkness which God himself has titled day. Not only does he use days to fulfill his will, but we must also understand there are predetermined days that will come to pass.

Not only does he start with a day, but he also used 7 particular days to finish his creation. On the second day, he created a firmament to divide the waters and, if you will note, the firmament is called Heaven: and it was so. On the third day, God brought forth the dry land and gathered the seas within the boundaries that have been set by God. He also, on this same day, brought forth all trees, grass and herb yielding fruit trees. On the fourth day God brought forth the stars, the planets, the sun and the moon. On the fifth day God created every living creature upon the earth and in the sea, as well as in the sky.

On the sixth day God created man in His own image and we must interject here the fact that man is the crowing event of God’s creation because we have been made in His image: and we, as humans, have been called into the kingdom of His dear Son. God, on the seventh, day rested and sanctified the day unto the Lord as a day of rest. Men are to work 6 days and rest on Sunday. Included within the period of rest is faithfully attending Church. Those that skip on a regular basis count the blood of Jesus a common, ordinary base thing and trample under foot the Son of God as found in Hebrews chapter 10. We must never undermine and de-stress the privilege and right we have as believers when it comes to assembling ourselves together.

As we begin our trek to see how God uses days, we must be honest and say that God started marking off time by evenings and mornings which he labeled “days.” Not only did He begin creation with the evening and the morning which is called day, but he also, over a period of 7 evenings and mornings which are called days, created all things and sanctified the 7th day as a day of rest and worship.

We see in the Genesis account that God begins creation with the creation and division of light from darkness and calls the evening and morning the first day. Not only does God begin with a day, He also has a particular day in mind which he labels the last day and gives us no less than three witnesses to this fact. Notice what the bible has to say about the last day and believe the witnesses that God gives through men and women who were being led by God’s Holy Spirit.

Chapter 9 continues nest post

 

[dcontroversal]

Chapter 9 continues

John 6:39-40 states, “And this is the Father’s will which sent me, that of all which he hath given me I should lose nothing, but should raise it up again at the last day. And this is the will of him that sent me, that every one which seeth the Son, and believeth on him, may have everlasting life: and I will raise him up at the last day.” In these two scriptures, we find a gold mine of truth and we praise God for these simple truths which have eternal weight and consequence. These scriptures teach two things about the will of the Heavenly Father. This first truth is the fact that it is the will of the Father that Jesus would not loose one thing which the Father had given him and that all who would see and believe on the Son would have everlasting life. I do not notice anything about works, church membership, baptism or even pew jumping. That is because it has always been about simple faith void of all external, fleshly means. The Bible tells us that Abraham believed God and it was put to his account for righteousness. Study Romans chapters 3 & 4.

If you will notice, the two statements made by Christ plainly teach that Jesus will perform “the raising up” at the last day. First of all, this must be indicative of the resurrection and to deny the statement concerning the last day or to try and explain it away is foolish. Jesus will raise up everything that the Father has given Him on the last day, period. Christ also makes this statement in a few more verses and gives even more weight to the fact that there is a last day. Notice these scriptures.

John 6:44 states, “No man can come to me, except the Father which hath sent me draw him: and I will raise him up the last day,” and John 6:54 which states, “Whoso eateth my flesh, and drinketh my blood, hath eternal life; and I will raise him up at the last day.” We are not going to get into the eating of Christ’s flesh or drinking his blood (that book will have to come later) but, if you will notice in both scriptures, he states plainly that the resurrection is at the last day. He will raise up from the dead those that have been given unto him by the Father. We must also notice that, in order to come to know Christ, you must be drawn by the Father and given unto Christ. This bears out, because it is the Holy Spirit that draws men, convicts them of the truth and opens theirs eyes that they may see. We know this because of what John teaches about the Spirit leading and guiding into all truth. Notice John chapter 14.

Not only do we have four direct statements by Jesus concerning the resurrection of the saved that belong to him, but we also have statements made by men and women who are believers that teach the same truth as taught by Jesus Christ in the book of John. Notice these verses that are found in the holy, everlasting truth of God’s Word.

If you will notice, John 11:24 states, “Martha saith unto him, I know that he shall rise again in the resurrection at the last day.” Is there anybody in their right mind that could possibly argue on any level that Martha did not recognize the fact that Lazarus would “stand again” at the last day? Jesus does not argue with her about when Lazarus would be resurrected nor does he tell her that she is wrong. Without a doubt, this verse speaks volumes and is another nail in the coffin concerning when the resurrection takes place, which is the last day.

Not only does Jesus tells us when the resurrection takes place, which was a truth that Martha understood, but an even older witness than Martha tells us that the resurrection takes place at the last day. Notice what the book of Job has to say about when Job would stand again. In Job 19:23-27, we see Job’s confession of his belief in the resurrection. We need to understand that the context is the resurrection and points to when Job would “see for himself” the God of Heaven. If you will notice, Job 19:25 states, “For I know that my redeemer liveth, and that he shall stand at the latter day upon the earth.” To the Hebrew, the word latter meant “hindermost or last.” It is obvious by the context and by Job’s understanding that he believed and understood that he would, with his own eyes and flesh, see God at the last day. This bears out to the fact that Job must have a resurrected body to make the statement about “in my flesh” and “with my eyes”. God gave Job the understanding that Job would get his new body and see God with his own eyes at the latter day, which is the last day.

If you will again notice, Job 19:25 states, “For I know that my redeemer liveth, and that he shall stand at the latter day upon the earth.” Can we argue against this? Is there any logical argument against the judgement pronounced upon those who reject the word of God taking place, according to Jesus, in the last day? The answer to both questions is a resounding NO! The resurrection takes place at the last day and judgement is pronounced by the Word of God on the rejecters in the last day. This truth is found in the book of Revelation, which we will look to later in the study, so hang on. We still have much to prove first.

Not only do we have a beginning day and a last day, but we also have the last days. Notice the following scriptures that give us a greater understanding when it comes to the truth and the fact that God uses times marked off in days to fulfill his will and to work his plan for humanity.

Not only does the resurrection take place at the last day, but so does the judgement of God upon those who have rejected His Word, as well as the Kingdom of God coming and being established. Notice the following scripture that the Son of God in flesh taught to his disciples when he walked the earth.

Micah, in Micah 4:1, states, “But in the last days it shall come to pass, that the mountain of the house of the Lord shall be established in the top of the mountains, and it shall be exalted above the hills and people shall flow into it.” It is again obvious by the context that this scripture teaches us about when the government of the Lord is going to be established as the top Kingdom in the World. Not only shall the Kingdom of Christ be established as the “top” mountain, but it shall also be exalted above every hill and the people shall flow into it. When shall this take place? In the last days is when this shall take place. The word last as used in this verse means “end” and literally means “the end day.” The government of God as the Kingdom of Christ shall be established at the end day. This is also taught in Daniel and Revelation which we will also study later.


Paul told Timothy in 2nd Timothy 3:1 that in the “last days” very dangerous times would come because of the sinful state of mankind, and who would argue that we do not live in very hostile and dangerous times? The writer of Hebrews in Hebrews 1:2 teaches us that God has spoken unto us by His Son in the last days and warns us to take heed and listen. Peter tells us in 2nd Peter 3:3 that in the “last days” shall come and there should be scoffers who would mock and criticize the Word of God by their walk and their talk, and then warns of the coming judgement of God which will result in the burning of the heavens and the earth.

Not only do we have days that represent the beginning and the end, but we also have days that are labeled the last days which represent a period of time. Just as important a fact is the truth that there are also particular days that have been marked off and preset by God himself. We will name these days for reference and give the scripture which tells us about these days, but we will not study these particular “days” until we establish other facts that are necessary for a correct interpretation of these particular “days.’

The three days that I am talking about are as follows, and I suggest that you wait to pass judgement concerning these days until the end of this book. Notice the following:

Day of the Lord as found in 1st Thessalonians 5:2 and 2nd Peter 3:10

Day of Christ as found in 2nd Thessalonians 2:2 and Philippians 1:6, 10

Day of God as found in 2nd Peter 3:12

We have proven that God started creation with time marked off in days. We have also proven that the resurrection, the judgement of those who have rejected God’s word and the establishment of Christ’s Kingdom will all come at the last day. We have also seen that periods of time have been marked off and given the title “last days.” If you set and add up all of the facts, we can come to the conclusion that God has marked off time in days, and he uses particular days to fulfill his will and work his work upon humanity. This is how we will list our 8th fact.

Our 8th fact is that God has marked off time in days and uses particular days to fulfill his will.

As we continue our quest for the truth, I suggest you be honest with the facts that we have established and that you diligently study the Word of God in order to understand these truths. We have a few more facts that we must establish and then we will begin to study the events that surround the second coming of Christ. We must be honest with what we find and, if you will be true to the truth, God will set you free and you shall be free indeed.

 

[dcontroversal]

Chapter 10
Fact 9
The 144,000 Sealed and
Who They Are!

Again let us re-read our list of growing facts that we might keep them in the forefront of our minds to the extent that will allow us to rightly divide the word of God when it comes to biblical interpretations concerning the second coming of Jesus Christ. Be honest with these facts and let God guide you into all truth by the Spirit of Truth.

Our 1st fact is that we are presently in the time frame that is known as “The Church Age.”

Our 2nd fact is that the saints are the saved. The word elect is applied unto the saved and is a word that describes our position that we have in Christ.

Our 3rd fact is that God is 100% consistent. By his very nature he is the only one who is qualified to be called “the same.” He is the same for all eternity. He does not change and has no shadow of turning in him.

Our 4th fact is that the Word of God which is of the Father and of Jesus Christ is the eternal, everlasting, for ever settled word of truth.

Our 5th fact is that tribulation has always been appointed unto the saved while the wrath of God is for the unbelieving lost man. We have been saved from wrath through him, but in the world we will have tribulation.

Our 6th fact is that, except for the message of salvation, the Word of God and the ability to understand the Word of God is unto those who have been born from above by the Holy Spirit of God. Included within these facts is the truth that a lost man is incapable of understanding, knowing and receiving the Word of God, much less being able to perceive and see the Kingdom of God.

Our 7th fact is that there are two resurrections found in the Bible. One is of the blessed, holy people who are the saved and we must note that the second death shall have no power over the born again believer. The second resurrection is of the lost which shall include the verdict of guilt as pronounced by the 5 books of the law shall result in the lost being cast from the presence of God into the lake of fire where they shall burn for all eternal ages.

Our 8th fact is that God has marked off time in days and uses particular days to fulfill his will.

The next truth that we need to establish concerns the 144,000 that are sealed in the book of Revelation. This short chapter will establish who these people are and will include some interesting facts about their characteristics. After we look to the Word of God in Revelation, I want to make some general comments about this group and about some things that must be true in order for this group of Hebrew, Jewish Christians to be sealed by God and labeled as His servants. Notice the following set of scriptures and bend to the truth therein. I will say that I will not list the entire scripture reference that I have given because you can read along in the Bible for yourself, but I will list out the particular verses within the texts that will answer our questions and establish our 9th fact concerning the 144,000 sealed in the book of Revelation.

There have been many groups and religions which have tried to apply the 144,000 number unto themselves. We know that these false religions have tried to use this as a ploy to keep their deceived flocks working and staying true to the false teaching. They try and convince the masses that in order to make the 144,000 you must be this religion or you must do this or that. Whatever! These groups try to say that only the 144,000 are going to make it to heaven and I must say that that is not only ridiculous, but is also sad. To deny that this number in the Book of Revelation belongs to none other than the 12,000 men from each tribe of Israel is blasphemous and contrary to the word of God. Let us notice what the word of God has to say about the 144,000.

The sixth seal as found in the book of Revelation when opened, reveals unto a believer 23 verses of scriptural truth and this is found in Revelation 6:12-7:17. The opening of the seal leads to a huge earthquake which moves every island out of their places. The opening also includes major upheavals and devastating sights in the heavens such as the sun going dark, stars falling from heaven, the moon turning blood red and God rolling the heavens back to reveal the face of the Son of God as He is on His throne in heaven. These sights cause such a fearful panic to overtake the inhabitants of the world that they hide in every nook and cranny they can find. The reason is because the one who sits upon the throne in heaven as God is now viewing them and is fixing to pour out His indignation and fury. He has rolled back the heavens and has pinched out the sun, as it were, between his pinky and thumb by the Word of His power.

It would do us good to note that every man who has been allowed to view the glory of God has fallen down as a dead man and could only stand when strengthened by God Himself. I can tell you that this one on the throne is none other than Jesus Christ himself. As we continue to look in our text, we see four angels come down and hold back the four winds of the earth while a fifth angel prepares to seal the 144,000.

John in Revelation 7:3-4 writes of this fifth angel which is saying, “Hurt not the earth, neither the sea, nor the trees, till we have sealed the servants of our God in their foreheads.” After John hears the angel make this statement, he then tells us what he heard about those that were sealed. John states, “And I heard the number of them which were sealed: and there were sealed an hundred and forty and four thousand of all the tribes of the children of Israel.” As we look into this scripture we must be honest with the facts that scream and blare loudly from these two verses. If you will notice in the second half of verse 3, the angel calls those to be sealed servants of our God. We must be honest and admit that in order to be called a servant of God a person must be a saved, righteous child of God. The angel then said, “Till we have sealed the servants of our God.” We know this statement must be true because of the statement made by the angel in Revelation 22:9 in response to John falling down to worship at the feet of the angel. Notice what the angel states: “See that thou do it not: for I am thy fellow servant, and of thy brethren the prophets, and of them which keep the sayings of this book: worship God.” We must conclude that the 144,000 who are to be sealed are on equal terms with John and the two fellow servant angels as found in this book of Revelation. They must be saved children of God who have trusted into Christ because the Bible plainly teaches that “no man” comes unto the Father except through Christ: and having been listed as servants of our God gives even more weight to this fact.

The next truth that we notice in verse 4 is what John records as hearing about the number that is sealed and who they are. The fact that 144,000 have been sealed and that these are Jewish Christian servants of God cannot be disputed on any logical train of thought unless the Word of God is completely ignored. John heard that it was to be 144,000 in number and that the group was to be compiled and sealed from “all the tribes of Israel.” John goes on to list the tribes, and they are as follows: the tribe of Judah, the tribe of Reuben, the tribe of Gad, the tribe of Asher, the tribe of Nepthalim, the tribe Manasses, the tribe of Simeon, the tribe of Levi, the tribe of Issachar, the tribe of Zabulon, the tribe of Joseph and finally the tribe of Benjamin. It is obvious by the text that this group of 144,000 is Jewish believers that God has reserved unto himself and have been identified as servants of God which are to be sealed. As we look to the next set of scriptures, we will see a few more facts about this group of 144,000 sealed servants like the fact that they are all men who are sexually pure and have never been defiled with women. Let us look to Revelation chapter 14 to see other truths about this group. We must note that to be sealed means to have a stamp of approval placed upon you by God Almighty. This stamp of approval comes because of the blood of Christ being applied to you eternal soul by simple faith into the completed work of Christ on the cross.

Chapter 10 continued next post

 

[dcontroversal]

Chapter 10 continued

Revelation 14:1-5 states, “And I looked, And lo, a Lamb stood on mount Zion, and with him an hundred forty and four thousand, having his Father’s name written in their foreheads. And I heard a voice from heaven, as the voice of many waters, and as the voice of a great thunder: and I heard the voice of harpers harping with their harps: And they sung as it were a new song before the throne, and before the four beasts, and before the elders: and no man could learn that song but the hundred and forty and four thousand, which were redeemed from the earth. These are they which were not defiled with women; for they are virgins. These are they which follow the lamb withersoever he goeth. These were redeemed from among men, being the first fruits unto God and to the Lamb. And in their mouth was found no guile: for they are without fault before the throne of God.”

These five verses give incredible weight to the fact that the 144,000 are indeed saved children of God. The first overwhelming fact that proves this is the statement made about them having a name written in their foreheads. Now, this is no ordinary name, and we must never undermine, abuse, or use in vain this name. This name is the name of the Son’s Father. Lest we forget, the Bible makes it plain and clear that “no man” comes unto the Father except by the Son. Notice John 14:6 which proves this last statement. In order to have the name of the Father in their foreheads, they must, of necessity, come through Christ. We cannot alleviate this foundational truth.

In verses 2 thru 3 we see a musical ensemble. We have the harpers harping and this 144,000 saved Hebrews from the 12 tribes of Israel, as listed by God, singing as it were a new song before the throne of God. We must note that this is not “Amazing Grace” or “Just As I Am,” but rather, this is a song that no man could learn except the 144,000 saved Jews that have been elected out of the 12 tribes of Israel and then sealed by God himself in their foreheads. It is fitting for God to allow them to be the only ones who can know and sing this song because of the stance that they will have for God Almighty. Notice the characteristics that this group of 144,000 saved and sealed Hebrews show forth in their lives and the excellent witness that burns brightly from their ever written testimonies found in this small text.

In the last part of verse 3 thru verse 5, we find five outstanding truths about this group of saved and sealed Jews. The first statement we see is that they have been bought from the earth and from among men. John, under inspiration of God’s Spirit, uses the word redeemed twice and applies it to the earth and from among men in the last part of verse 4. This word redeemed means to be “bought”: and, in this case, as in all cases with those who have been of the household of faith, to be “bought back” from the world and from among men means eternal salvation and preservation as a child of God for all eternal ages to come. Praise God and amen, yeah, double amen. The Bible teaches that we have been redeemed with the precious blood of Christ as of a lamb without blemish or spot. The song we all like to sing has a part which goes like this, “Redeemed, redeemed, redeemed by the blood of the Lamb. Redeemed, redeemed, His child and forever I am.” To be redeemed means that the blood of Christ has been applied to your soul as payment for your sin and you are no longer sold unto sin, the world and the destiny of worldly men: but now, you are a child of God and, because of being a child, you are now a joint heir with Christ. This group of 144,000 is, without a doubt, a group of saved, redeemed Jewish men which have had the blood applied through faith in Jesus Christ.

The reason we know that this group is men is because of the next few statements made. In verse 4, the Bible states, “These are they which were not defiled with women; for they are virgins.” Anybody who can read ought to be able to understand this small verse. We can conclude that this group of 144,000 is all men because they have “not defiled themselves with women”: and we must remember that God does not promote homosexuality and only promotes man with woman relationships when it comes to marriage, sex, dating, kissing and any other word that applies to said activities. The context and the consistency of God demands that this group be men. On top of this, the Bible records that these men are virgins which is self explanatory. They have not had any type of sexual encounter with women because they are virgins.

The next truth we notice is that this group is to follow the Lamb wherever he may go and that this group is the first fruits unto God and to the Lamb. We must be consistent with our findings when it comes to the truths of God’s Word. The Bible states that Jesus, by inheritance, obtained a better name than any other name ever given and also, by inheritance, obtained owner-ship of all things. Christ obtained all of that by inheritance because he is the only one who ever walked in the flesh while keeping the law without sinning. In other words, Jesus set the example when it comes to the truth concerning God rewarding the faithful. Jesus gets it all because he was 100% faithful to Him that hath called him. The 144,000 saved, sealed, Hebrew Jews are elected to their eternal position because they have come through Christ, they have not been defiled and in verse 5 we find even deeper truths.

“And in their mouth was found no guile: for they are without fault before the throne.” Let us examine this for a minute. Here we have 144,000 men who have remained sexually pure. They have been redeemed by the blood of the Lamb and sealed by God. They are the first fruits and are destined to follow the lamb wherever he goes. On top of this, these men are without fault before the throne of God and there has never been found any type of guile whatsoever in their mouths. This group is allowed by God to learn and perform a new song that no man can learn but them: and, as we look to the last fact about this group, be honest with what you are learning.

Notice Revelation 9:4 which states, “And it was commanded them that they should not hurt the grass of the earth, neither any green thing, neither any tree, but only those men which have not the seal of God in their foreheads.” This statement is made within the context of God sending a plague of locusts’ right out of the smoking pit onto the earth to torment men who are not sealed as the servants of God. This period shall last 5 months and men shall seek death, but shall not be able to find it. We must conclude that since the 144,000 are sealed in their foreheads, then this plague will have no power over them or over the other saved children of God who are here: and we have further proof that this group of 144,000 shall be brought through it all with no hurt.

Refer back to a text that we have already looked at in Revelation 7:3 which states, “Hurt not the earth, neither the sea, nor the trees, till we have sealed the servants of our God in their foreheads.” We must conclude no hurt that comes to this group of 144,000 saved and sealed Jews of the 12 tribes of Israel. So, as we recap and establish known facts about the 144,000 as mentioned in the book of Revelation, let us be honest and truthful with what we know. Look to the Word of God and we will establish our 9th fact. Notice the list.

The 144,000 are from the 12 listed tribes of Israel.

The have been redeemed from the earth and men, and are the first fruits of Christ and the Father.

They are men who have remained sexually pure and are virgins.

They are found before the throne and there is no deceit found in their mouths.

They alone can know and sing the new song that God has given them.

They are identified as servants who shall follow and serve God wherever he goes.

They are identified as the First Fruits which is the same word applied unto Jesus himself

Our 9th fact shall be that the 144,000 are saved, sealed, Hebrew men which are sexually pure and without fault, having been found in Christ. They come from the 12 tribes of Israel and are sealed before God brings calamity upon the inhabitants of the earth. Their standing is before God and they alone can learn and sing the new song which is of God. This group is also identified as servants who have been redeemed which gives further proof that this group is made up of saved Jewish men. They are identified as the first fruits of God which is the same word applied unto Jesus himself and grounds for a deeper study not within the scope of this book.

 

[dcontroversal]

Chapter 11
Fact 10
No Man Can Know the Time
But We Can Know the Signs of the Times!

Our 1st fact is that we are presently in the time frame that is known as “The Church Age.”

Our 2nd fact is that the saints are the saved. The word elect is applied unto the saved and is a word that describes our position that we have in Christ.

Our 3rd fact is that God is 100% consistent. By his very nature he is the only one who is qualified to be called “the same.” He is the same for all eternity. He does not change and has no shadow of turning in him.

Our 4th fact is that the Word of God which is of the Father and of Jesus Christ is the eternal, everlasting, for ever settled word of truth.

Our 5th fact is that tribulation has always been appointed unto the saved while the wrath of God is for the unbelieving lost man. We have been saved from wrath through him, but in the world we will have tribulation.

Our 6th fact is that, except for the message of salvation, the Word of God and the ability to understand the Word of God is unto those who have been born from above by the Holy Spirit of God. Included within these facts is the truth that a lost man is incapable of understanding, knowing and receiving the Word of God, much less being able to perceive and see the Kingdom of God.

Our 7th fact is that there are two resurrections found in the Bible. One is of the blessed, holy people who are the saved and we must note that the second death shall have no power over the born again believer. The second resurrection is of the lost which shall include the verdict of guilt as pronounced by the 5 books of the law shall result in the lost being cast from the presence of God into the lake of fire where they shall burn for all eternal ages.

Our 8th fact is that God has marked off time in days and uses particular days to fulfill his will.

Our 9th fact is that the 144,000 are saved, sealed, Hebrew men which are sexually pure and without fault, having been found in Christ. They come from the 12 tribes of Israel and are sealed before God brings calamity upon the inhabitants of the earth. Their standing is before God and they alone can learn and sing the new song which is of God. This group is also identified as servants who have been redeemed which gives further proof that this group is made up of saved Jewish men.

As we look to the word of God to establish our 10th fact, let us be faithful and true to our God and be honest with what we find.

As the scripture unfolds before our eyes, we will see ample evidence and proof that a believer can indeed see and understand the signs of the times that surround the second coming of Christ. We must be honest and say up front that no man that has ever lived can know or predict accurately the time and date of the second coming, but we can know that it is near by what is happening all around us. As we dig in, let us, as always turn our attention to the Word of God.

Matthew 24:36 plainly states, “But of that day and hour knoweth no man, no not the angels of heaven, but my Father only.” The context of this statement is found in verse 31 of the same chapter and is the second coming of Christ and our gathering which is called the rapture. With the sound of a great trumpet, the angels of God will gather his elect from the four winds, from one end of heaven to the other. Lest we forget, Lazarus was carried by an angel unto Abraham’s bosom which was paradise: and we have already established the truth that the term elect is applied unto the saved and describes our position before God in Christ. No man means “no man.” Not even the angels in heaven know the day or the hour, but the Father only. If you will look in the book of Mark, we even find that Jesus did not, at that time, know the day or the hour.

Mark 13:32 states, “But of that day and that hour knoweth no man, no not the angels which are in heaven, neither the Son, but the Father.” Once again, we have a double witness to the fact that no man can accurately know or predict the time of the second coming. The angels of heaven do not know, and even Jesus, when he was walking the earth, was limited by his flesh and did not know the time of his return. There have been many a religious group which would “predict” the second coming and, the evening before their prediction, they would sell all that they possessed and go stand on some hill waiting for Christ. I am sorry to inform the public, but to even attempt to predict and date the second coming at this time, much less sell your possessions and go stand on some hill singing “Amazing Grace”, is plum ridiculous and foolish. Nobody knows the time except the Father and that is all there is to it. As far as Jesus knowing the time, I would say that since he sits on the throne as God and is not limited by his flesh anymore he probably knows the time. I will not say for sure though.

Chapter 11 continued next post

 

[dcontroversal]

Chapter 11 continued

No man can know the time, but we can know the signs and circumstances that surround the second coming and, in knowing those things, can accurately say that the time is close. As we look to the scriptures, we must be honest and truthful with what we find. Notice what Paul has to say about knowing the signs of the times. The context which leads to Paul’s statement is the rapture, which is the second coming, and is found in 1st Thessalonians 4:13-18. Notice what Paul then writes to this church which was located at Thessalonica.

1st Thessalonians 5:1-4 states, “But of the times and the seasons, brethren, ye have no need that I write unto you. For yourselves know perfectly that the day of the Lord so cometh as a thief in the night. For when they shall say, Peace and safety; then sudden destruction cometh upon them, as travail upon a woman with child; and they shall not escape. But ye, brethren, are not in darkness, that that day should overtake you as a thief.” Notice that Paul, in view of the rapture, tells this church that he had no need to write to them concerning the times or seasons that are around the rapture. He goes on to tell them why he does not need to write unto them: and the reason is because they already know about all of it. Notice what he has to say.

You know exactly that the day of the Lord comes as a thief in the night. The whole idea behind the thief statement is to show that it is totally unexpected and at a moment when most people will be blind to any type of event that would require a savior. Notice that the world will be yelling peace and safety. The word peace means “a state of tranquility” where the world is free from the rage and havoc of war. Because of this, the world will see itself in a state of security and thus be saying peace and safety. I can see Paul now saying, “Listen to me brothers, you all know that Christ comes as a thief in the night and the world will not expect it because they are in a state of false peace and filled with a false sense of security: but you all know that sudden destruction shall come and they shall not escape.”

Then Paul reminds them of this foundational truth, “But ye, brethren, shall not be overtaken as a thief because you are not in darkness.” To not be overtaken as a thief because you are in the light is an obvious statement that proves to us that God’s children will be able to “see” what is happening and shall know if the time is near or not. We have other truths that prove this line of thought. Jesus gives weight to the fact that we can “see” and “understand” the signs of the times to the extent that we are not overtaken as a thief. Notice what Jesus had to say about his coming and the end of the world.

Matthew 24:32-33 states, “Now learn the parable of the fig tree; When his branch is yet tender, and putteth forth leaves, ye know that summer is nigh: So likewise ye, when ye shall see all these things, know that it is near, even at the doors.” To begin with, we need to know and understand to whom this statement is made. If you will notice in verse 3 of Matthew 24, we see plainly and clearly that it is his disciples who have come to him secretly, and it is to this group that Jesus imparts the truths of Matthew chapter 24. Since we have already established the fact that the First New Testament Church was called out by Jesus and is being taught by Jesus, it is right, safe and true to say that this discourse is given to the First New Testament Church which had it’s being in the disciples, i.e. “learners”, of Jesus Christ.

We must also remember the fact, which we have already established, that the Word of God is for the saved. Refer to fact 6 from the above master list of facts. Seeing that God’s Word is for the saved and Jesus is speaking to and teaching his disciples, we must conclude that this is written to His Church. I know and believe that there is yet prophesy to be fulfilled when it comes to Israel, but this discourse in Matthew 24 is, without a doubt, given to the first church. Let us notice what Jesus tells his first church of disciples.

Matthew 24:33 states, “When you shall see all these things, know that it is near, even at the doors.” So, Christ tells his church that when they see all these things, they shall know that the time is at hand. What ‘things’ is he talking about? This verse follows 29 verses of prophetic teaching and instruction and names off no less than 30 events that take place in and on this world. Jesus tells his disciples that when they see these things come to pass, his return is close at hand. I know that many people like to equate this entire set of scriptures to the Jews, but to do so is incorrect. This set of scriptures is given to the First New Testament Church which Jesus started: and this church is made up of the “learners” of Christ. We will not at this time study these events, but we will note that Christ told his first church that they would know the time was near because of the fulfilled events which have taken place in this world.

We have given two witnesses that prove that no man can know the time or the hour. We cannot date the second coming of Christ and, to even attempt to do so is vain and fruitless. We have also learned that those who are believers can see and know the signs of the times based upon the fulfilled events as listed in Matthew 24, Luke 17 and Mark 13. We are not in darkness that the day of the Lord should overtake us as a thief.

Our 10th fact is that no man can predict the date or the time of the second coming, but as believers we can know the signs of the times and the circumstances that surround the second coming.

 

[dcontroversal]

Chapter 12
Fact 11
The Book of Revelation is Given to God’s Churches!

Our 1st fact is that we are presently in the time frame that is known as “The Church Age.”

Our 2nd fact is that the saints are the saved. The word elect is applied unto the saved and is a word that describes our position that we have in Christ.

Our 3rd fact is that God is 100% consistent. By his very nature he is the only one who is qualified to be called “the same.” He is the same for all eternity. He does not change and has no shadow of turning in him.

Our 4th fact is that the Word of God which is of the Father and of Jesus Christ is the eternal, everlasting, for ever settled word of truth.

Our 5th fact is that tribulation has always been appointed unto the saved while the wrath of God is for the unbelieving lost man. We have been saved from wrath through him, but in the world we will have tribulation.

Our 6th fact is that, except for the message of salvation, the Word of God and the ability to understand the Word of God is unto those who have been born from above by the Holy Spirit of God. Included within these facts is the truth that a lost man is incapable of understanding, knowing and receiving the Word of God, much less being able to perceive and see the Kingdom of God.

Our 7th fact is that there are two resurrections found in the Bible. One is of the blessed, holy people who are the saved and we must note that the second death shall have no power over the born again believer. The second resurrection is of the lost which shall include the verdict of guilt as pronounced by the 5 books of the law shall result in the lost being cast from the presence of God into the lake of fire where they shall burn for all eternal ages.

Our 8th fact is that God has marked off time in days and uses particular days to fulfill his will.

Our 9th fact is that the 144,000 are saved, sealed, Hebrew men which are sexually pure and without fault, having been found in Christ. They come from the 12 tribes of Israel and are sealed before God brings calamity upon the inhabitants of the earth. Their standing is before God and they alone can learn and sing the new song which is of God. This group is also identified as servants who have been redeemed which gives further proof that this group is made up of saved Jewish men.

Our 10th fact is that no man can predict the date or the time of the second coming, but as believers we can know the signs of the times and the circumstances that surround the second coming.

As we begin this chapter, let us look in the all-sufficient rule of faith and practice, which is the Word of God. In this chapter, we will examine the fact that the book of Revelation has been given unto 7 different churches which were located in Asia Minor. As we will see, John, under inspiration, names the seven churches that he writes to and, without a doubt, these seven churches represent the types of churches that shall be found worldwide during the time frame that has been titled “The Church Age.” Many have tried to explain these churches away as periods of time and, to be quite frank, I do not believe that the seven churches that John writes to represent ages. If you will notice, the seven churches listed range from poor faithful churches to rich churches that have “no need” of anything, along with everything in between. We will touch on this later as we dig deeper, so let us turn our attention to God’s Word.

To begin with, we will consider the instructions that have been given unto John concerning “the book” which John was to write. This book was to be compiled based upon the information, visions and instructions that John was to receive thru direct revelation from Jesus Christ himself. As we begin to dig deeper, I strongly suggest that we all be honest with the truths that blare loudly from the eternal Word of God. Notice what John writes in the opening 4 verses of the book of Revelation.

Revelation 1:1-4 states, “The Revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave unto him, to shew unto his servants things which must shortly come to pass; and he sent and signified it by his angel unto his servant John: Who bare record of the word of God, and of the testimony of Jesus Christ, and of all things that he saw. Blessed is he that readeth, and they that hear the words of this prophecy, and keep those things which are written therein for the time is at hand. John to the seven churches which are in Asia….” The word revelation means “to disclose or take the lid off as in a revealing.” One of the biggest facts that has hit me about the book of Revelation is what it reveals and teaches concerning Jesus Christ. Jesus came as a lowly man of flesh for the purpose of death and is portrayed as a good looking, flowing haired idol, as well as a “half-naked” brutalized man on a cross. Both are so far from the truth that it makes me sick. First of all he was naked on the cross and the Bible teaches in the 53rd chapter of Isaiah that he had no beauty in him that we would desire him. He was an average, ordinary Hebrew and he no longer hangs on a CROSS.

He came like this the first time and was limited by his flesh, but the book of the “Revelation of Jesus Christ” takes the lid off and reveals unto to us who Jesus actually is and where he is sitting right now: and it is not on a cross, but on the throne in heaven. After John has given a brief testimony about why he is writing and how it came about, he then pronounces blessing upon those who would read this book and hear what it is saying. In the very next verse John tells us for the first time to whom this book is to be written. As you will see, it is not the Romans, the Jews, or the Greeks, but unto “Churches.”

Revelation 1:4a states, “John to the seven churches which are in Asia…” John does not say, “To the Roman Senate in Rome,” or “To the Egyptians” and, as a matter of fact, he does not even direct this letter to the world or anybody in the world. He plainly points this letter in the direction of these seven particular churches which are in Asia. What amazes me is the fact that many men and religions reject the fact that God directed this particular letter to seven churches located in Asia. Many a religious man has taught that this book applies to Israel and that the saved will be gone. I did not notice God directing John to write unto to the 12 tribes of Israel. John was directed by the influence of God’s Holy Spirit to direct this letter to the seven churches which were located in Asia. Not only does John show that this letter is from his pen by God, but we even see that Jesus states that He is the ultimate source of this letter and it is directed to these seven churches. Notice what Christ has to say.

12th chapter continued next post

 

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12th chapter continued

Revelation 1:10-11 “I was in the spirit on the Lord’s day, and heard behind me a great voice, as of a trumpet, Saying, I am Alpha and Omega, the first and the last: and, what thou seest, write in a book, and send it unto the seven churches which are in Asia; unto Ephesus, and unto Smyrna, and unto Pergamos, and unto Thyatira, and unto Sardis, and unto Philadelphia, and unto Laodicea.” It is interesting to note that John was in the spirit on the Lord’s Day when he sees and hears the events that lead to the giving of the book of Revelation. I must add that it is only through a local, visible New Testament Church that God receives glory, praise and worship. Ephesians 3:21 plainly teaches that all glory goes to God through his church throughout all ages in a world without end. John was worshipping God in spirit and is entrusted by God to give this revelation of Jesus Christ through a book.

If you will notice the underlined section of this scripture, we again see a second witness that proves the fact that this book has been written to churches. Notice that Jesus, who is Alpha and Omega, instructs John to “send” this letter to the seven named churches which were located in Asia. If you will sit down with a good bible dictionary, you can study all about these cities and what history teaches about their present state. Some still exist under other names and some have been brought to desolation by God Almighty. If you will study the characteristics of these individual churches, you will find that they are all unique and represent a sweeping range of what you could find worldwide during any age.

These seven churches to which John is instructed to write all have their particular blessings and/or warnings from God as to their state. Some are rich and increased with goods and have need of nothing. Some are poor in money, yet very rich in Christian works and blessed by Jesus Christ. Others have allowed people conquerors or women with characteristics like Jezebel to “run” the church. Some are doing everything under the sun for Christ, but have left their first love which is the love of God. It kind of sounds like today doesn’t it? Gymnasiums, ball fields, programs and everything else under the sun in the name of Christ except for the preaching of the straight forward, non-sugar coated Word of God.

This book was written to these seven particular churches and, as we begin to look further into this book, we will see that God gives even more clues to the fact that this book is meant for the saved children of God that assemble together in groups that are called and known by God as “his churches.” As we look to the Word of God, let us for a minute take a different approach to prove that this letter is for the saved children of God. We have already studied two witnesses that plainly state that this letter is sent and written to seven churches in Asia. Now, let us examine a statement or two about the word “saints.” Notice what John writes in the following scriptures found in the 13th chapter of Revelation.

Revelation 13:9-10 -,“If any man have an ear, let him hear. He that leadeth into captivity shall go into captivity: he that killeth with the sword must be killed with the sword. Here is the patience and the faith of the saints.” This statement is made on the heels of a description of a war that is made by the “beast” against the “saints.” Fact two, which we have already established, teaches us that the saints are the saved. Even though there are some who are saved and not members of any denomination, we must be honest and note that the Lord’s Churches are made up of the saints. I will not go into detail at this time about this war because that will come later. We must note a few things here and logically come to a few conclusions.

We must ask ourselves this question. Why would God write about his saints in the middle of a book that does not apply to them? Would it do you any good to receive a manual of instructions that teaches how to build a telescope if you were not the one who was to assemble the telescope? Lest we forget, the bible teaches that God’s Word is for the saved. Note fact 6 that we have already established. It would be foolish to send a book of the bible that describes and teaches about the end to a group of people or an institution that would be gone before any aspect of that book was to be fulfilled. God’s word is for the saved and this book is written to seven churches that are made up of the saints of God. I will give you a clue here. The book of Daniel also teaches about the end war that is made against the saints of God and gives even more proof to what will happen in the end.

John states, “to the seven churches in Asia”, Jesus states, “what thou seest, write in a book, and send it unto the seven churches which are in Asia” and, in the middle of the book, we see God through John reminding the “saints” of the simple truth that whether it be those that lead into captivity or those who kill with the sword, everybody will receive at the hand of God those things which they have dished out during their lives. The book of Galatians teaches us that whatsoever we sow, that we will also reap. Here is the “endurance” and “faith” of the saints.

Lastly, consider another statement by Jesus himself concerning this book. Notice what Jesus has to say in the last chapter of Revelation. First, remember Revelation 1:1 which states, “The Revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave unto him, to shew unto his servants things which must shortly come to pass; and he sent and signified it by his angel unto his servant John.” Now notice Revelation 22:16. Jesus states, “I Jesus have sent mine angel to testify unto you these things in the CHURCHES. I am the root and the offspring of David, and the bright and morning star.”

How can anyone deny these statements? The book of Revelation starts with a testimony that the “Revelation of Jesus Christ” was sent and signified by his angel and it practically ends with a statement by Christ telling all who will “see” that this angel was sent by none other than Jesus himself. Not only do we see John in verse 4 chapter 1 giving this letter to the seven churches we also see Jesus in verse 11 chapter 1 telling John to send this letter to the seven churches at Asia. In the middle of the book, we see a verse given to the saints in order to give hope and endurance to “the saints” during a war that is made by the beast against the “saints.” Lastly, we see Jesus in the last chapter plainly state that the truth’s of the book of Revelation was to be testified by the angel of God “in the churches.”

To deny that this book is given to the saved that make up the true New Testament Churches is totally against the Word of God. Three witnesses from beginning to end show that this book is written to churches and is to be testified in the churches: and at least two thirds of the book has particular application to the true churches of Jesus Christ.

Our 11th fact is that God has given the book of Revelation to His churches.

 

[dcontroversal]

Chapter 13
Questions, Questions and More Questions!

As we begin chapter 13, which is considered a transitionary chapter, we must again note the facts which we have already proven by the first 12 chapters in this book. I encourage the reader to look over the facts each and every time you read in this book. The facts speak the truth and will guide us in our search for the truth concerning the Second Coming of Jesus Christ.

Our 1st fact is that we are presently in the time frame that is known as “The Church Age.”

Our 2nd fact is that the saints are the saved. The word elect is applied unto the saved and is a word that describes our position that we have in Christ.

Our 3rd fact is that God is 100% consistent. By his very nature he is the only one who is qualified to be called “the same.” He is the same for all eternity. He does not change and has no shadow of turning in him.

Our 4th fact is that the Word of God which is of the Father and of Jesus Christ is the eternal, everlasting, for ever settled word of truth.

Our 5th fact is that tribulation has always been appointed unto the saved while the wrath of God is for the unbelieving lost man. We have been saved from wrath through him, but in the world we will have tribulation.

Our 6th fact is that, except for the message of salvation, the Word of God and the ability to understand the Word of God is unto those who have been born from above by the Holy Spirit of God. Included within these facts is the truth that a lost man is incapable of understanding, knowing and receiving the Word of God, much less being able to perceive and see the Kingdom of God.

Our 7th fact is that there are two resurrections found in the Bible. One is of the blessed, holy people who are the saved and we must note that the second death shall have no power over the born again believer. The second resurrection is of the lost which shall include the verdict of guilt as pronounced by the 5 books of the law shall result in the lost being cast from the presence of God into the lake of fire where they shall burn for all eternal ages.

Our 8th fact is that God has marked off time in days and uses particular days to fulfill his will.

Our 9th fact is that the 144,000 are saved, sealed, Hebrew men which are sexually pure and without fault, having been found in Christ. They come from the 12 tribes of Israel and are sealed before God brings calamity upon the inhabitants of the earth. Their standing is before God and they alone can learn and sing the new song which is of God. This group is also identified as servants who have been redeemed which gives further proof that this group is made up of saved Jewish men.

Our 10th fact is that no man can predict the date or the time of the second coming, but as believers we can know the signs of the times and the circumstances that surround the second coming.

Our 11th fact is that God has given the book of Revelation to His churches.

As we begin this chapter we need to reconsider for a moment some of the questions that, in the beginning, had caused me to search and inquire about the second coming of Jesus Christ. As this chapter unfolds, the reader will begin to see why I have searched diligently for the last 14 years to find the answers to the questions that nobody “would” answer for me. The only answer that would be given to the questions about the second coming was the statement about Jesus coming as a thief in the night: and to be quite frank, this was not good enough for me. I wanted to know the truth of the matter and, lest we forget, Paul told the church at Thessalonica in 1st Thessalonians 5:4 that “they were not in darkness that that day should overtake them as a thief.” So, let us look at some of the questions that drove me to seek the answers to the age old question about the coming of the only wise God and Savior Jesus Christ and the gathering together of his “saints.”

Fact 7 from above has taught us that there are only two resurrections to be found in the Bible. One is of the righteous saved and the other is of the “dead” and is titled the second death. In our quest for facts, we have already determined that the second death shall have no power over the ones who are resurrected in the first resurrection: and this truth is found in Revelation 20:4-6. If you will notice in the book of Revelation, we find several sets of scripture which plainly teach about the murder and death of massive groups of people for the cause of Jesus Christ. Notice the following.

In Revelation 6:9 we see “the souls of them that are slain for the word of God and for the testimony which they held.” If you will also notice verse 11 of this text, we see these brethren are told to “rest” a while until their fellow servants and their brethren “should be killed as they were.”

In Revelation 13:15 we see those that are murdered because they would not worship the image of the beast or receive his mark: and when we look to Revelation 20:4, we see that the way of death for these brothers and sisters is through beheading. It is interesting to note that those who are “beheaded…lived and reigned with Christ a thousand years.”

In Revelation 14:13, we see John write, “Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord from henceforth.” To be in the Lord and blessed must mean that you are a saved child of God. Remember, John taught in Revelation 20:6 that those who are part of the first resurrection are blessed and shall have no part in the second resurrection, which is the raising of the lost to be judged and cast into the lake of fire.

In Revelation 12:11, we find those who have overcome the accuser of the brethren by the blood of the lamb and by the word of their testimony. If you will note the last statement about these people is that “they loved not their lives unto death.”

Chapter 13 continued next post

 

[dcontroversal]

Chapter 13 continued

Here we have four witnesses in the book of Revelation that teach about huge numbers of people that are killed and murdered because they have a witness, a testimony for Jesus and a refusal to worship the beast or his image. I will not go too in depth just yet because we have many things to consider, but as we consider these verses let us note the first question that caused me to begin searching.

Since there is only “one” resurrection of the righteous, saved children of God, which is proven by fact 7 of the above list, then the question that begs to be answered is as follows.

“Where are the people who are murdered in the book of Revelation resurrected if the rapture/resurrection takes place before the events of the book of Revelation?”

Remember what is said about the two resurrections, which is “Blessed is he that hath part in the first resurrection on which the second hath no power.” There is only one rapture/resurrection of the saved and if it takes place before the events of Revelation, then there is no place found for the multitude which has been murdered in this book to be raised.

This is the first question that caused me to begin searching and, as we move on to the next question, I will ask the reader to take note of the fact that the people who are beheaded in the book of Revelation live and reign with Christ a thousand years, which is indicative of being resurrected. If the rapture/second coming takes place before the events of the book of Revelation, then where or when are the people who are killed in the book of Revelation resurrected, seeing how there is only ONE resurrection of the blessed righteous? Lest we forget those who are in the blessed first resurrection shall have no part with the second resurrection which is called the second death and is indicative of the eternal separation of the lost into the lake of fire: and this second death shall have no power over those who are resurrected in the “blessed first resurrection.” Note Revelation chapter 20.

The second question that has caused me to search out the facts is again proven by the answers that have been given by God in the Bible. These particular answers deal with the words elect and saints. We have proven by fact number two above that the saints in this age are the saved and the term elect is applied unto the saved saints and is indicative of their standing before God the Father in Christ Jesus as those who have been “chosen” in Christ and is descriptive of the process of our election.

The Bible plainly teaches that the saints of God in any age are the ones who have “believed” God and in faith have been born of God’s Holy Spirit: and seeing that this is true, we need to ask ourselves a few questions regarding God’s use of the word saints. We must conclude that even a Jewish man must be born again to be considered a saint, as well as the fact that the 144,000 who are sealed in the book of Revelation must be born again believers in order for God to consider them to be “sealed servants” and those who are “redeemed and without fault. Ephesians 4:20 teaches that the saved are sealed with the Holy Spirit of promise and that sealing is unto the day of redemption: so we must conclude that the saints are the saved in this age.

My second question has to do with John, under inspiration, making several statements about the saints. The following are asked in light of the following belief. If the rapture/second coming takes place before the events of Revelation and the saints of God are gone, then:

Why does John teach about a war that is made against the saints by the beast in which he is allowed to prevail for three and a half years in Revelation 13:5-7?

Why does John give encouragement while testifying to the endurance and faith of the saints in light of the consuming war that is made by the beast against the saints for three and a half years as found in Revelation 13:9-10?

Why does John make another reference to the patience and faith of the saints and those that keep the commandments of God and faith of Jesus Christ in Revelation 14:12 and then make reference to those that shall die in the Lord from that moment on? You must note that this truth is set forth in light of the judgement which shall come to those who take the mark of the beast, which is indicative of the worship of the beast. We must also note that in order to die in the Lord you must be a saved child of God.

Why does John make reference to the shed blood of the saints and the prophets in Revelation chapters 16, 17, and 18? We must note that part of the reason that God pours out judgement upon the world is because of the murder and mistreatment of the saints of God.

Chapter 13 continued next post

 

[dcontroversal]

Chapter 13 finished

Not only do I have questions about what John writes about the saints, but I also have questions about some of what Jesus has to say. Remember that it is these questions which had caused me to begin my search. Notice the questions that come to light when we consider Jesus and what he had to say and still has to say. Remember that the saints in this age are the saved and the word elect is applied unto the saints and describes our standing in Christ. The questions that I have concerning the statements made by Jesus come out of Matthew 24 and deal with the word elect. Don’t forget that the word elect is applied unto the saints and is descriptive of our stance in Christ before God the Father and in view of this truth, I ask the following questions.

Why would Jesus teach that the time frame of the horrendous tribulation period would be shortened for the sake of the elect if the saved elect had already been raptured before the tribulation period? Note Matthew 24:21-22 and Mark 13:19-20.

Why would Jesus write of an event which is described as the gathering of the elect at the great sound of a trumpet by the angels of God which is to take place “after the tribulation of those days” if the elect had already been raptured out? Note Matthew 24:29-31 and Mark 13:27. It would be wise to note that Lazarus was carried by an angel after he had passed on as found in Luke the 16th chapter.

Why does Jesus tell his disciples, which are the first New Testament Church, that they would be delivered up to be killed, afflicted and hated of all “nations” for his name’s sake if they had already been snatched away? Note Matthew 24:9, Luke 21:12, 16-17 and Mark 13:12-13.

Why does Jesus tell his first church that when “they” had seen all of the events as described in Matthew chapter 24 take place, then they would know that that time is near, even at the doors, if the saved had been raptured already? Note Matthew 24:32-33 and Luke 21:28.

You can get comparative scriptures in the books of Luke and Mark which give further insight into these questions.

I also have a few questions that come from Paul’s writings which also contradict the belief that Christ can come at any minute. Again I want to remind the reader that it is these questions which, in the beginning, caused me to seek for the answers. I will say, as a teacher, that all of these questions make complete sense when they are answered rightfully from the word of God. Notice the questions that come to mind when we consider the testimony of Paul the Apostle who was to write over one half of the New Testament.

Paul told the Thessalonian Church that they should not be shaken about the coming of the Lord and by our “gathering together” unto him because they knew that the day of the Lord would not come until after the falling away and the revealing of the man of sin. Notice 2nd Thessalonians 2:1-3. Why would Paul tell this church that the man of sin would be revealed before the second coming of Christ if the saved were to be raptured before the events of Revelation, which includes the appearance of the Anti-Christ, who is the man of sin?

Paul tells the Thessalonian Church that the rapture would be preceded by and come in a time of unprecedented peace and safety. Notice 1st Thessalonians 5:1-3. The context of these three verses is found in chapter 4:13-18 and plainly teaches about the second coming of Christ and the event which has been labeled by humanity as the rapture. My question is why would Paul teach the Thessalonian Church that the resurrection of the dead and the changing of those who are alive would come after a time frame of peace and safety which is followed by destruction if the saved had already been raptured out? Note that the only place where peace is found followed by destruction and misery is the opening of the first four seals in Revelation chapter 6.

Why would Paul teach the Corinthian church that the rapture would occur at the “last” trump if the saved are raptured before the events of the book of Revelation? Last means “last” and we must take note that the last trump found is the seventh trump as found in the book of Revelation chapter 11.

I have given you numerous questions which I have encountered that weigh heavy against the teaching that Christ can come at any minute. In the very minimum, these questions ought to drive the reader to investigate further the word of God. I could give many other questions, but I cannot at this time because these questions would give away some truths before I want to give them and these truths must come in a particular order to allow the reader to absorb to the fullest the truths that are laid bare before us by the word of God.

Again, I encourage you to consider the facts that we are using as our rule in order that we might come to correct conclusions. Paul is writing to churches in these letters and we must consider that this instruction is to a New Testament church. We will dig into the above scriptures in Corinthians and Thessalonians as we unfold the answers in the following chapters. How could the statements and truths above be made to true New Testament churches if those saved members that make up those churches are raptured and gone? Lest we forget, these church letters are written and given unto all true churches that would come down through the ages: and we must conclude that this instruction is given in particular unto the churches that are in existence during the time frame which is indicative of the “end times.”

As we begin to unfold the answers in the following chapters, I suggest that the reader pray diligently and seek the God of heaven through his Word. Be honest with what we find and embrace the truths that shall set you free from the world’s religion, as well as the “fables and lies” which have been spread for the last couple of centuries.