Adventist Alert to Church History

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In memory of
Elder William Henry Grotheer, Editor

"Watchman,
What of the Night?" ( WWN) is a thought paper that was published monthly continuously from Jan, 1968 to the end of Dec. 2006 . by the Adventist Laymen's Foundation of Mississippi, Inc.(ALF), with William H. Grotheer as the Editor of Research & Publication.

Due to his failing health, Elder Grotheer requested that ALF of Canada continue publishing thoughts through its website www.AdventistAlet.com which now has developed into frequent Blog Thought articles plus all of the Foundation's historical published works written and audio.

As of 2010, with the official closing of the ALF of USA , The Adventist Laymen's Foundation of Canada with its website www.Adventist Alert.com is the only officially operating ALF branch established by Elder Grotheer worldwide.

We are thankful for the historical legacy that is now available through

The Adventist Laymen's Foundation of Canada, POB 8255,
Victoria, BC V8W 3R9 Canada

The Nov. 1977 issue discusses "What is the "Watchman What of the Night?"

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The MISSION of this site -- is to put the articles from the WWN in Essay form to be Browsed and Word Searched by word or subject. It is not our purpose to copy WWN in whole.

Any portion of the thought paper may be reproduced without further permission by adding the credit line - "Reprinted from WWN, Victoria, BC Canada."

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Adventist Alert
Blog Thoughts
by Raymond A. Cutts B

"Holy Father"?
As a whole, the prophetic interpreters at the time of the Protestant Reformation all held in common the identification of the Papacy as "the anti-christ." The term "anti-christ" intimates a personal power, a hostile influence, and an imposter working in the place of the true Christ. It is the Devil, or Satan, the same person, who imitated an angel of light at the temptations of Christ in the wilderness, with the same request then as now - for all to bow down and worship him instead of God. This imposter imitates the Word of truth as much as possible. The imitations are very close, so note the comparison. Christ came as "the Word" who "was God" [John 1:1-4]; was "slain to death" upon a cross [John 19:30-37]; yet He arose from the dead, was exalted on high and irresistibly appealing is His Gospel. Now, here is the imitation. Satan under the guise of "the anti-christ," the Papacy, the "man of sin …who exalteth himself … that he is God" [2 Thessalonians 2:3-4], was also "slain to death" [the Pope died in captivity, with no replacement allowed, in 1798 by order of Napoleon], yet the resurrection of the Papacy from the dead comes when [1929 Mussolini gave world recognition to the Pope] "the deadly wound was healed" [Revelation 13:3]. Unfortunately, the now so-called Protestant world "wondered after the beast" who by his false charismatic power all call him "Holy Father" and bow down and kiss his ring in recognition of him as the world's Christian leader. Oh, the delusions of Satan! Oh, this tragic picture, his masterpiece of evil! The prophecies of Daniel and Revelation interpret each other to expose the truths that need to be fully understood.

Eternal Fixtures of Faith
For a Christian, there are many fixtures in our faith that are eternal and can not be altered or changed in any way. First, the Son of God, Christ our Lord, after coming from heaven, was made the same flesh as you and I, lived and worked among men as our example to emulate. Second, Christ died outside Jerusalem on a Roman cross, as the ultimate sacrifice for our sins. Third, to justify us before God, Christ, on the third day, rose to heaven from among the earthly dead. Four, Christ now sits at the right hand of God in heaven as our Advocate or priest intervening on our behalf before God. And finally, five, where Christ will come again from heaven, in the clouds, to take His true followers home with Him in power and glory. There, in heaven, Christ will present His glorious church to God the Father and His angels. These are the essential eternal fixtures of the true Christian faith. As Paul said in Hebrews 8:1-2 "Now of the things which we have spoken this is the sum: We have such an High Priest, who is set on the right hand of the throne of the Majesty in the heavens; a Minister of the sanctuary, and of the true tabernacle, which the Lord pitched, and not man."

A Season and Time
Daniel 7:12, speaking prophetically about the three beasts - the lion, the bear and the leopard - says "yet their lives were prolonged for a season and time." Then Paul, speaking about the fallacy of predicting the year or season of the year for the second coming of Christ, says in 1 Thessalonians 5:1-2 "But of the times and seasons … yourselves know perfectly that the day of the Lord so cometh as a thief in the night." "A season and time," and "the times and seasons;" the one Daniel is prophetic, whereas the phrase in 1 Thessalonians is actual. Looking into the phrase in Daniel 7:12 it says "the rest of the beasts [the first three- representing Babylon, Medo-Persia and Greece], they had their dominion taken away." The actual dominion and territory of Babylon was taken away by Medo-Persia, but the influence and lives of the populace continued on. The same goes for Medo-Persia into Greece, and Greece into Rome. The influence of these peoples continues even to today. Not only in the culture but their philosophy and religion are continued. In fact, the Church of Rome finds itself identified with Babylon all throughout Bible prophecies. And from Medo-Persia in religion comes the influence of Mithaism with its Lord's Day - Sunday, and birthday of the sun-god Mithra on December 25. Then, the philosophy of Greece is still predominating the thinking and reasoning patterns of today's learned in their circles of supposed higher education. This "season and time" will continue to Christ's return and all of these influences along with the last beast will be "given to the burning flame."

Synonymous Terms
The terms - "sign, seal, token and mark" - are all synonymous terms, all of which refer to law, power and a mark of distinction in regard to demands of obedience to legal documents or persons. Hence we come to terms used like "the mark of the beast" or "the seal of God" in the book of Revelation. The word "seal" cannot be separated from law. In Isaiah 8:16 God said "seal the law among my disciples;" this is a mental revival of the claims of God's law. The use of a "seal" is for validating or authenticating a law or document, as in a king's seal or seal-ring. A "seal" contains three points - the name of the ruler, his title and his area of dominion - and these are noted somewhere in the law or document. All Christians admit that the Ten Commandments are the Law of God; yet it is only in the fourth command, regarding the Sabbath, that "the seal of God" is constituted. Paul reminds us in 1 Corinthians 8:5 that in this world there are "gods many and lords many." If you skip over the fourth command, the word "God" and "Lord" are used everywhere but not defined, and therefore can refer to anyone of them. It is only by the fourth command that the true God is identified; saying the God of this law is our Creator. Jeremiah 10:11 says that false gods are not creators and "have not made the heavens and the earth." The word "sign" is also synonymous with "seal" or "mark" and God said that the Sabbath is His sign, and how we "know" the true God. It says in Exodus 31:13 "my Sabbaths ye shall keep; for it is a sign between me and you …that ye may know that I am the Lord." This text is not only for the literal Israelite or Jew, for the Gentiles are to partake of Abraham's blessing and as Paul said we are "Israelites indeed." The other synonymous term "mark," as in "the mark of the beast," in Revelation 14:16 says "he causeth all" [Greek - forces] the "mark" to be put into "the right hand or in their forehead," meaning - what you put your "hand" to do, or what you put mind to thinking in your belief regarding this enforcement. What synonymous term suits you?

The Restoration of Man
It is only by a full understanding of what happened to man at his downfall in Eden that we can realize what is needed for his restoration to grace with God. Genesis chapter 3 gives the short, but concise, story of Satan using the serpent to communicate his poisonous thoughts. The fruit of the tree was not the problem, for in Genesis 1:29 it says that God gave of "every tree" for food to man, but the fruit of one particular tree God said in Genesis 2:17 "thou shalt not eat of it." The fruit of it was good but the "not eating" of it was a test of allegiance to God. The appetite and inclination of man were divinely appointed in creation but the perversion of them was the problem. Eve sinned by disobeying God then Adam, as he could not imagine a future without her, followed her into sin. He chose the present over an unknown future. God asked Adam to give an account of his decision, so in Genesis 3:10 he said "I was afraid," revealing a sense of guilt which introduced an imbalance in man's whole system of being. Thus in the church today is coined the term "original sin." Before this state man was in harmony with God, but this guilt introduced imbalance in man so much so that man of himself has a "bent to evil" coming from an overpowering force, and man today is unable to make correct valued judgments. We can choose to do right, and obey God, but without help from Christ, by the agency of the Holy Spirit, our God-created faculties and powers remain perverted and settled with the lower standard instead of the high and holy. The restoration of man to God is the renewing of the proper balance and harmony which is accomplished through the Holy Spirit working in us.

Successive Three-Stage Work of Christ
Christ's work is in three stages which do not overlap but are in succession. He was and is Prophet, Priest and King. In the past Christ on earth came as Prophet and teacher; at present He is our intercessory priest acting for us before God in heaven; in the future, after the redeemed are called home to heaven, He will take the throne as King in heaven. As Prophet - God said of Christ through Moses "I will raise them up a Prophet from among their brethren, like unto thee" Deuteronomy 18:18 [See also Acts 3:22]. As Priest - God said "Behold whose name is the Branch … he shall build the temple of the Lord … he shall be a priest" Zechariah 6:12-13 [See also Hebrews 8]. As King - it is said "He … shall be called the Son of the Highest: and the Lord God shall give unto him the throne of his father David" Luke 1:32.The throne of David was discontinued because of wickedness and profanity before God. This is recorded in Ezekiel 21:25-27 "And thou, profane wicked prince of Israel, whose day is come … remove the diadem, and take off the crown … it shall be no more, until He come whose right it is; and I will give it Him." Here is where there is some confusion. For this type of reign is different in nature than the priest-kingship of Melchizedek. Also, Christ as a babe in Bethlehem was born a King by right, but will only receive that crown, diadem and office much later, after He comes in glory at His second coming. And at His second coming there is no more need of a priest in heaven, He will reign as King in the New Jerusalem on the throne of David His earthly father.

Is Feelings The Test?
Feelings are quite variable, that is why the religion taught by Christ is not based on feelings or emotion. Too many Christians operate their spiritual life relying on feelings of the heart, saying "if it feels good, it must be of God." The prophet of God talked about relying on emotion and feelings of the heart when he said in Jeremiah 17:9 "The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked: who can know it?" The heart needs to be trained by knowledge in God's Word. Solomon, the wisest man in history, wrote in Proverbs 2:2 "incline thine ear unto wisdom, and apply thine heart to understanding." And again he said in Proverbs 23:12 "Apply thine heart unto instruction, and thine ears to the words of knowledge." A religious experience based on feelings is very weak, flimsy and untrustworthy. A solid religious base comes only by rightly understanding and total dependence on the Word of God. We must live by faith in God's Word through wisdom granted to us by the Holy Spirit, thus opening our minds to His truth. When we, through outside circumstances, become mournful or depressed, we can get into a stage of doubt as to whether we are with God or not. Remember what Paul says in Hebrews 10:23, "Let us hold fast the profession of our faith without wavering; (for he is faithful that promised)." We each have to teach and educate our heart and soul to fully trust in God's Word, and not rely on our feelings or emotion to rule our lives. By doubting we dishonor God.

The Fruit Inspector
In Matthew 7:20 it says, "Wherefore by their fruits ye shall know them." The Law of God is the transcript of His character. Those who profess to keep this law [the Ten Commandments], but fail to show it in thought or deed are not obedient children of God, keeping neither the first four commandments, which shows love to God, nor the remaining six which shows love to your fellow man. For in breaking one commandment, you break all, as said in James 2:10 “For whosoever shall keep the whole law, and yet offend in one point, he is guilty of all.” This description of the Ten Commandments divided into two categories is found in Matthew 22:37-40 where Jesus said “thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind, this is the first and great commandment, and the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself. On these two commandments hang all the law [Read also Romans 13:8-9]. The fruits are the natural works or outcropping of obedience to God’s commands; and this is made available to all by God’s Spirit working through us, which is that free gift – grace. Therefore, as was said before "By their fruits ye shall know them." The fruits are deeds, works, or outward attitude which is visibly seen by all, and by which all can know by which spirit you are being directed. In conclusion, I would add, we are not to judge our fellows intentions, but we are admonished to be good fruit inspectors. God bless you as you study on.

Where Are We Now?
At this immediate time in our earth's history we are standing between the 13th and 14th verses of Revelation chapter 6 (under the sixth Seal). We are living in the most important and most solemn time period in world history. Revelation chapter 6 is New Testament history from the time of Christ's First Coming to His Second Coming, under what John saw as the opening of the Seven Seals of the Book mentioned in Revelation 5:8-9. Six of the seven seals are opened in Revelation chapter 6 but the seventh seal is opened in chapter 8. The four horses (White, Red, Black and Pale) and horsemen come under the first four seals. The White Horse denotes the purity of the early Gospel immediately after Christ's death and ascension; the Red Horse signifying the corruption of that message through to 323 AD (the days of Constantine); the Black Horse denotes the opposite of White purity when the Gospel was engrossed with errors of compromise from 323 AD to 538 AD and the establishment of the Roman Catholic church; the Pale (yellow or jaundice) Horse denotes the sickly diminished message through the Dark Ages. The next seal is the 5th with the incoming Reformation Period. Then comes the 6th Seal with the period of religious Awakening of the 1800's ushered in by the worldwide study of the 2300 year prophecy of Daniel 8:14. Revelation 6:12-14 speaks about this period of "a great earthquake" which is the greatest recorded earthquake in history, the Great Lisbon Earthquake of Nov. 1, 1755; after which John saw that "the sun became black … and moon became as blood" which is recorded in history as the Dark Day of the east coast of North America on May 19, 1780 and that night the Moon rose as red as blood; finally he saw that "the stars of heaven fell" which is also a historical one time happening on Nov. 13, 1833, with this meteor shower which was like snow falling that continued for over three hours and was seen also on the east coast of North America from Florida to Nova Scotia. Where we are now historically is just after these sights with the next and final sight as stated in verse 14 when "the heaven departed as a scroll" just prior to Christ's return. We live in an awesome time.

The Law and the Gospel
To receive salvation, or to be saved, comes only through a uniting of the Law of God and the gospel of Christ. Today sin abounds greater than any other period of time in earth's history. But, to continually preach about obedience to the Law of God, as drastically important as it is, is not enough. There must be a balance; like rowing a boat, rowing with one oar you go around in circles with no movement forward. This is as it is in Christianity, preach the Law without the gospel or the gospel without the Law, you get nowhere. The two elements are necessary. When we talk of the saved, the term "saints" comes to mind, but the Greek word for "saint" is "hagios" which means "holy" as used in Ephesians 5:27 a church or His people "holy and without blemish;" and Colossians 1:22 "present you holy and unblameable" and numerous other references. In Revelation 14:12 it says of God's people "Here is the patience of the saints," but of the "saints" it goes on to describe them by saying "here are they that keep the commandments of God, and the faith of Jesus." This kind of faith is not passive or shrinking from activity; it is an aggressive faith with absolute loyalty to God in obedience to His commands and optimism in a persistent faith in the gospel. Sadly most of professing Christianity follow a popular theory that does not combine holiness with fully keeping the Law of God. It is a watered down gospel full of traditions of men and compromises of God's truth. The text in Revelation 14:12 and many other places throughout the Bible, God wishes a defining of those who are truly His, holy, the true remnant as described in Revelation 12:17 "the remnant … which keep the commandments of God, and have the testimony of Jesus." God is looking for this awakening in His people to the two fold message of the Law and the Gospel, the people called in Isaiah 58:12 "The repairers of the breach, The restorers of paths to dwell in."

Allegory of Two Covenants
In Galatians chapter 4 Paul speaks to the people about obedience to the Law of Moses, Jewish ceremonial law. He speaks in an allegory, which is a narrative story that is figurative in meaning. In this allegory, the two covenants - Old Testament sacrificial service and its corresponding laws, the "Jerusalem which is now" to Paul, and - the New Testament services in the heavenly sanctuary "Jerusalem which is above" Galatians 3:25-26. He uses the story of Hagar, with her son Ishmael, the son by works of the flesh and Sarah, with her son Isaac, the son of faith and promise (Genesis chapters 12; 13; 15; 17; 19). The bondswoman or slave, Hagar, represents those clinging to a system of "works of the ceremonial law" after Christ came and became the ultimate sacrifice of that law, thus bringing it to an end and moving it into the "new covenant" relationship with Christ. And now, as Sarah, the freewoman and "mother" of the heir to the promise, we see that law in a new perspective of freedom within Christ. There has been much difficulty on this pointed allegory. Old Jerusalem represented by Hagar is the "mother" of bondage; trying to gain heaven by works and allegiance to man-made organizations and looking to earthly leaders as spiritual guides. New Jerusalem "which is above is free," and is the true "mother of us all." The question is how are you born again? Are you born again by the will of man with the new birth of flesh or bondage? Or are you born again of the Holy Spirit and free, brought forth in new birth by "the Spirit of His Son into your hearts, crying, Abba Father" (Galatians 4:6). It is the New Jerusalem which is above and being part of the heavenly sanctuary that is important as said to those overcoming saints in Revelation 3:12 "will I make a pillar in the temple of my God."

Sacrifice and Example, Both Perfect
Christ lived the life of a man as a perfect example for us; He, through His death on the cross became our perfect sacrifice. Because of sin, the priest in the Old Testament was the mediator between God and man; and all this system pointed forward to Christ as the perfect sacrifice and mediator after His death. 1 Timothy 2:5 states "there is one mediator between God and man, the man Christ Jesus." And His mediatory work extends, as stated in Hebrews 6:19-20 "within the veil" to that of "an High Priest forever after the order of Melchisedec." We, today, need to fully understand just what Christ is doing for us now. Paul knew and understood how the sanctuary service of the Old Testament was "the example and shadow of heavenly things" (read Hebrews 8:1-5) and how that system was "a figure" (read Hebrews 9:6-9) of what was coming ahead. The Old Testament sanctuary service and it buildings were a "pattern shewed to thee (Moses) in the mount" (Hebrews 8:5); it was a prototype that needs to be fully understood today by all of us. Well did Asaph the Seer (2 Chronicles 29:30) write in Psalms 77:13 "Thy way, O God, is in the sanctuary: who is so great a God as our God." The seat between the two cherubim's emanates God's power, from "within veil" of the Most Holy apartment (the seat or throne is the on the lid of the ark in which is housed the Ten Commandments), as Asaph said in Psalms 80:1 "O Shepherd of Israel … thou that dwellst between the cherubim's, shine forth." Also, in Psalms 99:1 "The Lord reigneth; let the people tremble: he sitteth between the cherubims; let the earth be moved (stagger)." God has not changed in His attitude toward His true followers, sin is sin, it needs to be addressed and eradicated, only through a close connection with Christ, our perfect sacrifice and example.

True and False Christs
Today, we hear the term "transformers" in children's toys, but there are "transformers" in the church also; 2 Corinthians 11:13 says of this term, "false apostles … transforming themselves into apostles of Christ." Christ warned that after He left "many shall come in my name, saying, I am Christ: and deceive many" (Matthew 24:5). Notice the word "many;" He did not say "some" or "few;" thus showing a majority in the church following in error. And He goes on in Matthew 24:24 saying "there shall arise false Christs, and false prophets, and shall shew great signs and wonders." These emissaries of Satan, false teachers, will perform grand spiritual signs and wonders to prove that they are the correct channel to follow. We cannot follow feelings or emotions in spiritual things. There is a text describing these false teachers in 2 Timothy 3:7 "ever learning, and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth." Strict adherence in following God's Word is the only safe course. That was the cry of the early Reformers, "the Bible and the Bible only;" but now this has been relegated to the historic trash heap because of all the compromises and church "traditions" that supersede the Bible. One of the most distorted of all Biblical truths is that of the human nature Christ assumed on earth at His incarnation. Which was it - the sinless human nature of Adam before his fall in Eden, or - did He take upon Himself the degraded, sinful, fallen human nature of the sons of Adam? Which is it? It cannot be both, or compromised away. Two points about God must be taken into account; that of "nature" and "character." As for the "nature" of God, it entails - immortality, omniscience, omnipresence and omnipotence. However, Christ came not in the "nature" of God, but in the "character" of God. The "character" of God entails - wisdom, spirituality, purity, truthfulness, goodness and benevolence. Paul stated of Christ, in Hebrews 5:8 that Christ "learned obedience, through the things which He suffered;" and in Romans 8:3 "God sending His own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, and for sin, condemned sin in the flesh (His own flesh);" then in Hebrews 2:10-18 Christ "the captain of their salvation perfect through suffering … took on Him the seed of Abraham. Wherefore in all things it behooved Him to be made like unto His brethren … hath suffered being tempted;" and Hebrews 4:15 that Christ "was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin." Christ was born, the sinless babe in Bethlehem, but He took upon His sinless form our sinful form and nature (Philippians 2:7-8). For, if we assume Christ came to earth with all the powers of God, where is the fight with Satan, the suffering and what was there to overcome? There would have been no contest! If Christ had the powers of the "nature" of God, how could He be "in all points tempted" like you and I? And the final consequence would be, for life today, and as is used frequently today, an easy excuse for sin in disobedience to the commandments of God. So, which is the true Christ, and the model human life for man to follow?

Two Ministrations
Read 2 Corinthians 3:1-11. Paul here discusses two "ministrations" regarding one subject, which is regarding the ten commandment law "in tables of stone." However, it is not the law directly that is addressed by Paul, but the "ministration," or administering of the law in the Old and New Testaments. The "ministration of death," or "condemnation," is compared to the "ministration of the Spirit," or of "righteousness." The administering of each is different. In the old Hebrew sanctuary service, the sacrifice for sin, which John says is "transgression of the law" 1 John 3:4, was the death of an innocent animal victim, as we read in Leviticus chapter 4, "kill the bullock," "slay the sin offering." The Jews realized that sin meant death, of which Paul calls this "ministration of death" - "glorious," because it looked forward to Christ and His sacrificial death. And after the sacrifice Leviticus 4:20 says that the man went away from the altar "forgiven." Yet, this "glory was to be done away" with by the ending of this sacrificial system by the ultimate sacrifice of Christ on the cross (the innocent Lamb of God dying for the sins of the world). This ushered in a new system, with Christ as both sacrifice for our sins and also as our intercessory priest and High Priest. Paul refers to this as the new "ministration of the Spirit," or "righteousness," and says of this administration of God's law as to "exceed in glory." In John 15:10 Christ our earthly Exemplar said of Himself, "I have kept My Father's commandments, and abide in His love." God's moral law is not changed or done away with, and never can be. But, by the difference in the "ministrations," the law of God has moved from "glory" to "exceed in glory."

Totally Indebt to Christ
We are totally indebted to Christ for the grace He extends to us, and the example He left for us to follow by which we gain eternal life. It is by beholding Christ though His life history that we are changed into His likeness. Paul told us in 2 Corinthians 3:18 "we all, with open face beholding as in a glass (mirror) the glory of the Lord, are changed into the same image from glory to glory, even as by the Spirit of the Lord." This is true conversion, reflecting the image of Christ in our life today. This same thought is also confirmed in 1 John 3:2-3 "Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that when he shall appear (at His second coming), we shall be like him as he is. And every man that hath this hope in him purifieth himself, even as he is pure." As we study the life of Christ more closely, we catch the image of our Master. Thus, by looking upon the "author and finisher of our faith," His image is reflected in us. And this is accomplished through grace "by the Spirit of the Lord" dwelling in us. For every good quality we have, and the ability we possess to fully distinguish spiritual things, we are fully indebted to the grace which Christ brought from heaven. Finally, by reflecting His image fully, "whatever we ask, we receive of him, because we keep his commandments, and do those things that are pleasing in his sight" (1 John 3:22).

Final Atonement - Phase I
In comparing the sanctuary in heaven with the Old Testament sanctuary service, the annual Atonement service was in two phases. Phase I was the sacrificial portion of the Atonement service which was conducted in the first apartment of the sanctuary, called the Holy Place. This sacrificial portion was the slaying of the victim, which represented Christ, as the suffering Messiah. Phase II of the Atonement service began when the High Priest went into the apartment known as the Most Holy Place in the concluding portion of the service; that of making the repentant people holy and perfect again before God, with all sins forgiven. This represents Christ at His second coming as the conquering Messiah. The Jews knew of both, the suffering Messiah and conquering Messiah, but they did not want this suffering Messiah, they were looking for phase II, the conquering Messiah and blinded their eyes to phase I. Thus, they rejected Christ, His life and His message. Isaiah chapter 53 goes into great detail describing Christ in phase I, the suffering Messiah. Isaiah 53:3-12 says Christ was "despised and rejected of men; a man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief … wounded for our transgressions … with his stripes we are healed … the Lord hath laid on him the iniquity of us all … he was numbered with the transgressors; and he bare the sin of many." Christ became sin for us in taking on the sins of all mankind of every generation. Now we can get a glimpse of why in Gethsemane Christ sweat blood. The pressure of sin was enormous and seemed to separate Him from God. We hear the smear tactic in the term "the sinful nature of Christ." Christ was sinless, but He did take upon Himself "our" sinful nature. It was not His, but "ours." He was defiled before God by "our" sin that He took upon Himself. Yet, in this state of humanity, and total reliance on God, He overcame sin. He became one with us in the flesh, so that we might become one with Him spiritually. Zechariah 9:16 says, in speaking of the redeemed at the end of time, "they shall be as stones (gems) of a crown, lifted up as an ensign upon his land (the earth made new)." In this sense, Christ views His true followers as pure, righteous and holy, even here on earth now. This is His reward for all the suffering and humiliation of sin. He has already borne our punishment; it is our turn, in accepting this gift, to fully obey His law as the standard of righteousness for us all.

Creation and Procreation
According to Webster, to create - is to bring into existence by imaginative skill; to procreate - is to reproduce as birthing an off-spring (Biblically - to beget). God the Father and Christ are both joint-creators; however, only once is it recorded that God the Father, through His Holy Spirit, brought forth by procreation. This is recorded in Luke 1:35 and Matthew 1:18, where the Holy Spirit came upon Mary and she gave birth to a child by natural birth. Therefore, Christ truly is "the only begotten" Son of the Father (John 1:14 and 18; Hebrews 11:17). There is a text though, that states of Christ, that He is "the beginning of the creation" of God. This is found in Revelation 3:14 "the true Witness (Christ), the beginning of the creation of God." This could be read in a way indicating that Christ is a created being, but let us look closer. The word "beginning," more properly translated means "effective cause" or "agent," which properly brings forth the work of Christ as the agent through whom God created all things. Paul in Hebrews 1:2 states about Christ, "by his Son … by whom also he made the worlds." Notice the plural "worlds" [world - an inhabited orb], which says Christ is the active agent with God the Father in creating the entire Universe. And John 1:3 also states of Christ, "All things were made by him; and without him was not anything made that was made." Some have thought to bring forth what is spoken of about Christ in Proverbs 8:22 and on, "the Lord possessed me in the beginning of his way," to infer Christ as created by God. But remember, these texts are an allegory. So let's not stretch it beyond the allegorical.

Fantasy, Fiction or Fact?
Is there anything factual or tangible in heaven? Many believe heavenly things are all fanciful, figurative and fictional, with crazy concepts of angels and those who have passed on, floating on clouds strumming harps. However, when we read the account in Revelation chapter 5, John's vision of opening the door into heavenly sanctuary, he does deal in many figurative descriptions, but he is definitely not dealing in fiction. It is all factual! We know as a Biblical fact that God dwells there on His throne. We also know that Christ, after His death ascended to heaven and sits in that throne room at the right hand of God. Luke wrote of this in Acts 7:55 when he retold the experience and vision of Stephen, at his stoning. Daniel wrote in Daniel 7:9-10 about the same basic scene. Few have little concept of the magnitude of the temple in heaven as compared to its model constructed on earth by the Jews. For Revelation 5:11-12 relates to us that not only were there the four creatures and the twenty-four elders on their thrones before the supreme throne of God, but an innumerable company of angels stood also in this temple throne room. The text reads "ten thousand times ten thousand," which in quick calculation adds up to one hundred million, but then adds "and thousands of thousands." To this we might also add, this room is also to hold all the redeemed from earth after the second coming of Christ. Yet, in all of this, the main object of attention in this throne room is the Lamb of God [Christ] and the shedding of His blood for all humanity, "slain to receive power, and riches, and wisdom, and strength, and honor, and glory, and blessing." The question is - what will enable you to be there? Study this out, as fact not fictional fantasies.

The Model Man - Christ
Christ, as our example to follow, our model man, came as the lowliest of the low in humanity. Christ came as a servant; for God told His prophet in Isaiah 42:1 "Behold my servant, whom I uphold … I have put my spirit upon him: he shall bring forth judgment to the Gentiles;" and in verse 7 says "for a light of the Gentiles." Yes, he came as a servant, but what kind of a servant? At the feast of the Passover recorded in John 13:4-5 it says of Christ, that he "took a towel, and girded himself. After that he poureth water into a bason, and began to wash the disciples' feet." This job in the Jewish household was not done by Jewish servants, but by foreign slaves, the lowest of humanity in Israel. Paul in Philippians 2:7 reinforces this thought in saying of Christ that He "made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant … humbled himself, and became obedient unto to death." As a human Christ found Himself able to communicate and give hope to the lowest of the low by His example. In John 5:19 and 30 Christ said of Himself "the Son of God can do nothing of himself," and "I can of mine own self do nothing." While bearing this form of humanity for our redemption, Christ was fully dependant on the power of God for His life. Christ as a man had to grab hold of God's divinity though the Holy Spirit; this privilege He extends as the only way for us to follow. That is why Paul says to us in Philippians 2:5 "Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus." He really is our life's example, and model man, because He truly can sympathize with all our woes and troubles.

Who and Where?
Who and where, are questions asked of Christ in Revelation 7:13 with the answer in verse 14. It reads "what [who] are these which are arrayed in white robes? And whence came they? … These are they which came out of great tribulation;" a people, righteous souls, redeemed by Christ from the earth. These same questions and identical answer could also be applied to the 24 elders in Revelation 4:4. For they also were "clothed in white raiment; and they had on their heads crowns of gold;" the two tokens given only to those who have, through Christ, fought the good fight in life, and have gained the victory over sin. In the next chapter, 5:9 this group says to Christ "thou wast slain, and hast redeemed us to God by thy blood out of every kindred, and tongue, and people, and nation." The 24 elders are now already in heaven, before the final battle and Christ's second coming. Yet, from the garment and crown they each have, it is obvious that they have participated in the Christian warfare with sin. So, there is another question in regards to who this special group is. Paul knows who they are, for in Ephesians 4:8 he speaks of Christ translating them to heaven. He said "when He [Christ] ascended on high, he led captivity captive." This goes back to an event after the resurrection of Christ that Matthew refers to in Matthew 27:52-53 "the graves were opened, and many [not all] bodies of the saints which slept arose, and came out of the graves after his resurrection, and went into the holy city, and appeared to many." This select group was led by Christ from the captivity of death, directly ascending into heaven, and is now seated on 24 thrones before the throne of Christ in the heavenly sanctuary. This is the vision of John, and this is the group. So now we can understand just who this group is, and from where they originated.

"Fullness of the Time Was Come"
At this time of the year the eyes of many are focused on Israel, especially the city of Bethlehem, in regard to the birth of Christ. Truth be known, Christ's actual birth is three months different and not on December 25. This date was adopted into the church as a compromise with pagans to join Christianity. The date December 25 is actually the date ascribed to the birth of the sun god. However, to the text mentioned in the title, it is from Paul's writings in Galatians 4:5-6 "when the fullness of the time was come, God sent forth his Son, made of a woman, made under the law, to redeem them that are under the law, that we might receive the adoption of sons." Christ, born a Jew, lived His entire life obediently under all the different Jewish laws, but at His death, as our supreme sacrifice, He brought the ceremonial law to an end [the veil in the temple was torn down by God]. But, as to "fullness of the time," this "time" had nothing to do with the natural birthing time of nine months being fulfilled. It was "time" in regard to the prophetic time pointed out in the Old Testament. In studying the prophecies of Jeremiah and especially of Daniel, the year, the season of the year and the exact city were pointed to with accuracy. There was no reason why the leadership of Israel could be unaware of these facts of prophecy. This is witnessed against them, when the three heathen kings, the magi, came into Jerusalem following the star; they went directly to the priestly leaders and received directions to where Christ, the Messiah, was to be born. Amazing, those heathen men better understood Bible prophecy, and in searching for truth, were more obedient to it than the chosen guardians of God's truth. Let us today be found worthy, aware of the truth and the prophetic times to come.

Judge Not!
One of the most misconstrued texts in the New Testament is Matthew 7:1 where it says "judge not that ye be not judged." To apply this text to God's Word, so that it can be twisted and adulterated promoting known heresies within the church is wrong. April 2, 1977, the Los Angeles Times wrote "the teaching of psychology, that people should be 'nonjudgmental' toward others has resulted in heresies thriving within the churches." Satan does not make open attacks on Christianity for that is too obvious and easy for man to repel. Satan was transformed into an angel of light and works his deceptions in disguise. The teachings of psychology are well used by him; and in this case, that of being "nonjudgmental", is using a twisted sense of this scripture text. To take this text in this framework contradicts the writings of Paul, John and Christ. Paul wrote in Titus 3:10 "A man that is an heretick after the first and second admonition reject." To reject is the strongest form of condemnation that I know of. Now, John in 2 John 10-11 said much the same when talking of the doctrine of Christ, "If there come any unto you, and bring not this doctrine, receive him not into your house, neither bid him God speed: for he that biddeth him God speed is partaker of his evil deeds." Finally, to try a person is to judge that person. Christ told John about the church of Ephesus in Revelation 2:2 "tried them which say they are apostles, and are not, and … found them liars." So, what is the admonition for true believers today? We are not to tolerate heresy in any form, whether from the pulpit, teaching in class, from books, television or whatever. Do not sit in the pew like a dumb watchdog that will not bark (Isaiah 56:10) for there is a great work to be done within the church.

"In the Spirit"
What does being "in the Spirit" mean? In Revelation 4:2 John states "immediately I was in the Spirit: and, behold, a throne was set in heaven, and one sat on the throne." And again, in Revelation 1:10 John said "I was in the Spirit on the Lord's day and I heard a voice, as of a trumpet." Just a note of clarification, the "Lord's day" referred to it is no other day than the seventh-day Sabbath. Because, John being a Jew, knew no other day as the Lord's special day, and there is no scriptural evidence to show otherwise. Now as to being "in the Spirit," it is referring to being in a higher than usual state of spiritual elevation. In this case, being spoken to and shown visions of heavenly things. In Acts 9, Paul, when on his way to Damascus, was knocked down to the ground, and the light from heaven blinded him, and he heard the voice of Christ. But just prior to this, in Acts 7 another man was "in the Spirit" and had a vision; it was Stephen. Stephen was on trial for his life, and being falsely accused, was stoned to death. Stephen witnessed for Christ, and just before he died God gave him a vision of heaven. In Acts 7:55 it says of Stephen, "he, being full of the Holy Spirit (in the Spirit), looked up steadfastly into heaven, and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing on the right hand of God." The vision here is of the same room in heaven (in the heavenly sanctuary) opened to John in Revelation. This same experience of being "in the Spirit" happened to many throughout Bible history. One example of many is Daniel. In Daniel 7:9-10 he records a vision of the same room in the heavenly sanctuary, "I beheld till thrones were cast down, and the Ancient of days did sit … thousand thousands ministered unto Him." Being "in the Spirit" is being called up by God to a nearer proximity to heaven, and witnessing a foretaste of what is to come for all who patiently, strictly and obediently follow Christ and His example.

Correct, But Condemned
Revelation chapters 2 and 3 give a historical time-line overview of church conditions, of which the last four run concurrent through to the end of time. The last four - Thyatira, represents Roman Catholicism; Sardis, the Reformation church condition; Philadelphia, the Christian spiritual awakening of Bible prophecy in the early 1800's regarding Christ's soon second coming; Laodicea, the movement resulting from the awakening. The last two, Philadelphia and Laodicea are not condemned by God for any false doctrines. However, even though doctrinally correct, Laodicea is condemned for another reason. Spiritually "lukewarm" is the problem; in Revelation 3:16-17 it says "because thou art lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will spue thee out of my mouth. Because thou sayest, I am rich, and increased with goods, and have need of nothing; and knowest not that thou art wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked." So lax and content is this people in their spiritual knowledge that they are lacking power from God and "knowest not" of their condition. This is totally abhorrent and sickening to God, that unless they listen and heed the warning to become "hot" or fervent in their zeal to preach the truth, they will be rejected and condemned. The special truth given to them is buried under laxness and compromises for peace. Interestingly God even prefers "cold" to this "lukewarm" condition of indifference. This body knows what the special truth is, so the "cold" condition of some does not represent lack of knowledge, but a feeling of unfitness or discontent and groping or looking for guidance. God can work with the "cold" but not with the "lukewarm." Christ, who is outside this body, says in Revelation 3:20 "I stand at the door, and knock: if any man (an individual call) hear my voice, and open the door" this individual is counseled to buy the gold, white raiment and eye-salve to turn from being "lukewarm." The gold - is faith, hope and charity (love); and with the gold purchase white raiment - putting on the robe of Christ's righteousness fully obedient to God; also with gold buy the eye-salve - which is the presence of Christ in your daily life by His Holy Spirit. By doing this, be correct and not condemned.

The High Priestly Prayer
John chapter 17 has been called "the high priestly prayer" of Christ, as our High Priest and only Mediator between God and man. This prayer of priestly intercession was petitioned to God just prior to Christ's trial and death by crucifixion; and is an object lesson to us of what Christ is now doing on our behalf in the Heavenly Sanctuary. Many people today believe there are many roads that lead to God, but in John 3:36 we are told there is only one. It 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 is reiterated in John 17:3, that if we truly know God and His Son "this is everlasting life." Then, in John 17:4-5 Christ brings forth that all through His life He glorified God, and asks God to glorify Him as our Mediator. Then He says "I have finished the work which thou gavest me to do;" thus completing phase one in the "counsel of peace … between them both (God the Father and God the Son)" as referred to in Zechariah 6:12-13. In this "The BRANCH" (Christ) "shall grow up out of his place (heaven)" and come to earth as our Mediator and redeem man back to God. Christ "finished the work" given to Him by God, that of living a perfect life as a man to give the example for all mankind to follow. Then the veil is removed for all mankind to see in John17:5, where Christ asks for His own glory to shine forth "which I had with thee before the world was." Then, in John 17:17 comes the true evidence of sanctification, which is not just believing and parading around in self-satisfaction shouting "I am saved; I am saved," but as stated here, "Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth." It is only by faith in God and strict adherence to His word that we might be saved. Finally, John 17:20 "pray … for them also which shall believe on me through their word;" this is our work, the work of witnessing to others what we have learned. What a chapter, what a message!

Tragic Cracks in God's Truth
Oh, if only the truth of what is happening within the walls of the church, spiritual Israel, could be unveiled to the people. The tragic cracks in the wall of truth are being daubed "with untempered mortar" (seeds of error and compromises of truth). Well did Ezekiel warn the people of false spiritual prophets and leaders. In Ezekiel 13:4-16 God warns the people "thy prophets are like foxes in the desert. Ye have not gone up into the gaps, neither made up the hedge for the house of Israel to stand in the battle in the day of the Lord … they have seduced my people saying, Peace; and there is no peace; and one built up a wall, and lo, others have daubed it with untempered mortar, that it shall fall: … I will break down the wall … it shall fall, and ye shall be consumed in the midst thereof." Individually, the people need to wake up out of lethargy and speak out as God said in Isaiah 58:1 "cry aloud, spare not, lift up thy (individual) voice like a trumpet and shew my people … the house of Jacob (the church) their sins." Salvation is an individual, not corporate (as a church body) responsibility. As said in Ezekiel 14:14 and 20 "Though these three men, Noah, Daniel, and Job, were in it, they should deliver but their own souls by their righteousness;" "they shall deliver neither son nor daughter; they shall but deliver their own souls by their righteousness." The tragic cracks in the wall of basic truth are being covered over with untempered mortar by having the people so engrossed and absorbed in church programs, activities, social functions that the real issues of truth are side-stepped and evaded, covered with this façade of activities. In Ezekiel 9:4 the "mark" or "seal" by God's angel is placed only on those individuals "that sigh and that cry for all the abominations" that are being done under the guise of truth. Where do you stand! There is no time for preaching "peace and safety" when God says there is none to be had in this ongoing battle for the minds of men.

I Would - I Wish
Christ said "I would thou wert" which in simple English of today would render "I wish that you were" this or that. In Revelation 3:15 Christ stated this thought that He wishes and desires man to be either "cold or hot" toward Him. Then, in verse 16 He goes on to say "because thou art lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will spue thee out of my mouth." God abhors the "lukewarm," self-satisfied and indifferent attitude of the majority of believers toward Him and His work; and so much so that this lax attitude is like vomit in His mouth to be discarded. To be "hot" for God and His work is what He wants the church to be. But the opposite of "hot" naturally is "cold;" so how can God be for a "cold" attitude. What is He really saying here? First of all this message is addressed to the church (or believers) and not to the outside world of disobedience. Secondly, a proper understanding of what "cold" means, in this instance, is needed. "Cold" in this case is not that of being in a state of worldly wickedness and in rebellion against God, but for God; otherwise God would not wish this condition on anyone. It is as spoken of in Job 23:3 "O that I knew where I might find Him!" "Cold" here spoken of by God, in preference of "lukewarm" indifference, is a state of longing, groping in a feeling of destitution, but with a great zeal and desire to recover the treasure of God's closeness. That is why "cold" is preferred by God over "lukewarm" where there is no feeling of lacking anything. The fervent desire and effort of the "cold" person leads this person to God. I pray you are either "cold" or "hot" toward the truths of God.

Corporate or Individual
Christ's call for His followers - is it a corporate call or an individual call? Today, the majority of Christians get so entrenched in doctrinal creeds and denominations. The trend is to have convenient little boxes to place everyone in. Are you of this denomination or that? Do you sit in your comfortable pew and strap on your belt of church membership and believe you are on your way to glory? Christ in His message to the seven churches in Revelation chapters 2 and 3 says otherwise. The messages to each church are not all for specific denominations, but to groups of Christians in certain time periods. The messages are, in the end, directed to the individual. Revelation 2:1-7 - Ephesus, in verse 7 says "to him (individual) that overcometh will I give to eat of the tree of life." Revelation 2:8-11 - Smyrna, in verse 11 says "he (individual) that overcometh shall not be hurt of the second death." Revelation 2:12-17 - Pergamos, in verse 17 says "to him (individual) that overcometh will I give to eat of the hidden manna" in heaven. Revelation 2:18-29 - Thyatira, in verses 26-28 says "he (individual) that overcometh, and keepeth my works … will I give power … I will give him the morning star." Revelation 3:1-6 - Sardis, in verse 5 says "He (individual) that overcometh, the same shall be clothed in white raiment." Revelation 3:7-13 - Philadelphia, in verse 12 says "Him (individual) that overcometh will I make a pillar in the temple of my God." Revelation 3:14-22 - Laodicea, in verses 20-21 says "I stand at the door and knock: if any man (individual) hear my voice … him (individual) that overcometh will I grant to sit with me in my throne." Corporate denominations can not save anybody, they are guide posts pointing directions, only God's Spirit can point you, individually, in the correct way. It is one on one with God.

A Knowledge of God
The very nature of God will be a continual mystery to man, because God has never revealed His nature to us. Zophar, one of the comforters of Job, brings forth to us in his question in Job 11:17 "Canst thou by searching find out God? Canst thou understand the Almighty unto perfection?" Christ said in John 4:24 "God is a Spirit." And yet besides understanding God as Spirit we do know the Godhead as personal beings because in Genesis 1 and 2 it tells us mankind is made in God's image. Then, in John 17:3 we are admonished to know God; it says "this is life eternal, that they might know thee, the only true God." Our conversion to Christ's as His followers, and our character transformation all hinges on the knowledge of God. However, in delving into our knowledge of God, our thoughts should not be focusing on who God is in His nature, but on what God is in regard to His dealings with us. Do not attempt to penetrate beyond what God has revealed in His Word. Who God is, in His very being, will forever be a mystery, especially on earth. Maybe when we meet Him face to face in heaven this may change.

Do You Understand Your Origin?
Elihu told Job, showing his clearness of understanding their origin, in Job 33:4 when he stated "The spirit of God hath made me, and the breath of the Almighty hath given me life." Then he reiterates in Job 34:14-15 that if God were to "gather unto Himself His Spirit and His breath; all flesh shall perish together and man shall return again to dust." This reflects the creation story, where the Godhead purposed together to "make man in our image" (Genesis 1:26). Then, in Genesis 2:7 "the Lord God formed man of the dust of the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became a living soul." Thus man, as a counterpart of God, made in His image, was made able to partake of God's divine nature in his human nature and live forever. But, this capability was cut off when, through Adam, sin was allowed to enter the world. Adam lost his dominion of the world to Lucifer or Satan. Paul in 1 Corinthians 15:45 points out that, Christ as the second Adam, or last Adam, redeemed what the first Adam had lost; he said "the first Adam was made a living soul; the last Adam, a quickening spirit." The word "quick" in this context means "life" - spiritual life. And so Paul speaks of Christ returning to us this "spiritual life" by His triumph over Satan. This spiritual quickening, or spiritual life-giving, brought to us by Christ's Spirit, enables man, though weak in the flesh, to overcome sin. Paul points this out to us in Romans 8:4 "that the righteousness of the law might be fulfilled (filled-full) in us, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit." Only by Christ's Spirit dwelling in you can this be done. This is God's redemption plan for man, that is made clear, if we fully understand our origin.

Obedience to God is "Second Nature"
Christ prayed "This is life eternal, that they might know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent" - John 17:3. See also John 3:36 and Revelation 22:14. To know God is to live a life of continual obedience that is "second nature" in habit from a heart-felt knowledge of Him. True obedience to God comes directly from the heart and soul, and thus identifying fully with Him and His wishes. The mind becomes totally conformed to God's will. The divine energy from the Holy Spirit is imbued into the soul. This is the restoration of what man was originally endowed with at creation. It is true, we of ourselves, lack the power to free ourselves from the grasps of Satan. But, when we truly desire freedom from sin and Satan's hold, all that is necessary is to cry out for the Holy Spirit's power from above. Choose to surrender your will to God's control. In understanding the need of help; cry out for deliverance. The power imbued will completely harmonize your will with God's will in your life. This knowledge of God transforms the character and our actions become a revelation of His Word. Thus obedience becomes "second nature" to you. This is the sacrifice of yourself, and in so doing you are choosing eternal life rather than eternal death.

Exercise Your Free Will!
In taking on humanity, Christ placed Himself on the same basic footing of all humanity. In John 5:30 Christ stated about Himself - "I can of mine own self do nothing: as I hear I judge." In the choices of exercising His own free will, Christ was at the same risk as you and I. He was a free moral agent, as was Adam and all mankind. So, why do we fail in the same arena of conflict, and under the same circumstances, where Christ succeeded? Christ stated above "as I hear I judge." The important point is rightly "hearing." Paul in Hebrews 4:1, 2 tells us "the word of hearing did not profit them, not being mixed with faith." And Paul also said in Romans 10:17 "faith cometh by hearing and hearing by the word of God." Here, the word for "hearing" in Greek is "akouo"- "I hear," but it is prefixed with "hypo" - meaning "under." Hence we get the term "hypodermic" - meaning "under the skin." Therefore, "under hearing" refers to obedience, as obedience to God in reference to His moral law. When Christ became a man He was "made under the law" as Paul makes clear in Galatians 4:4. And Christ, being raised as Jew, lived all the laws, the ten commandment moral law as well as the laws of Moses. We are able to conform to His moral law only by faith in God to allow His truth to penetrate under our skin and into our innermost parts. This is how Christ overcame sin and gave this as our example for us to follow. We cannot transform ourselves. Eternal life in heaven can only be attained by the right action of surrendering our free will to the Holy Spirit's control. The choice is your own!

The Existing Rebellion
In Ezekiel chapters 8 and 9 a rebellion is pointed out by the prophet, a rebellion by the people of God. A rebellion the same as exists in Christianity today. The abominations against God are sins; and "sin" is defined as the transgression of God's holy Law as pointed out in 1 John 3:4. Worshipping idols, the breaking of the first two commandments, was and still is the problem. But not only this, worshipping the sun god whose high day is Sunday, thus breaking the fourth commandment. However, the fault is laid at the feet of the twenty-five men, the priestly leadership causing the people to err (Ezekiel 8). Then in Ezekiel 9:2-5 "six men," angels, and one of them with a "writers ink horn" marking the forehead, or sealing, only those persons who "sigh and cry," in other words, cry out against the abominable sins performed within the church of God. This sealing is going on right now. The world's salvation is at stake here. By sitting in the church pew and remaining quiet, not speaking out, we dishonor God. This is a spiritual emergency. The "mark" placed by the angel with the "writers ink horn" is a contradistinction from the "mark of the beast." In all the compromises being made, this prophecy in Ezekiel is totally apropos for the church today. Study out this timely prophecy for it is eye opening.

Christ - Creator, Redeemer and Priest
The entire book of Hebrews, one of the most important study books in the Bible, is summarized in the first three verses, Hebrews 1:1-3. It reads "God, who at sundry times and in divers manners spake in time past unto the fathers by the prophets," thus dispelling the ideas of critics that the Old Testament as a myth and not inspired writings of God. Carrying on it says, that God "hath in these last days spoken unto us by his Son, whom he hath appointed heir of all things [heir to the throne of majesty in heaven]." Then it continues, that it is Christ "by whom he made the worlds; who being the brightness of his glory, and the express image of his person, and upholding all things by the word of his power." Here it is show the Christ is the Creator and sustainer of the entire universe. Then it goes on, "when he had purged our sins," thus showing Christ as the Redeemer and Saviour of all mankind. And finally, it reads that he "sat down on the right hand of the Majesty on high" as man's intercessor or Priest on the right hand, the seat of honor and authority, of God the Father in heaven, there mediating on our behalf. These three verses prove Christ to be our Creator, Redeeming Saviour and Priestly king, now atoning for us in the heavenly sanctuary. It shows the universal work of Christ, the second person of the God-head, in the past, present and future. These verses are just the foretaste of the powerful message of this epistle.

The Third Angel of Revelation 14
What is it that constitutes the worship of the beast? The two statements forming the message in Revelation 14 seem to be contradictory; however, there is a preface to the message in the identification of the first beast, of which the second beast is an image. It is found in Revelation 13:18. It starts with "here is wisdom," and follows "let him that hath understanding count the number of the beast: for it is the number of a man." The worship of the beast is the worship of a man. Even though the specifics of this prophecy point directly to one religious organization, there is a basic principle found here which is present in most religious organizations. It is that when a man or man-made dictates take priority over the heart and soul of other men's worship of God it comes under this message in Revelation 14 of worshipping the beast. Exodus 20:3, the first commandment, says "thou shalt have no other gods before Me." To eclipse the view of Christ, placing the views of man or man-made doctrines, traditions and ecclesiastical machinery of higher importance than God; this is the ultimate purpose of Satan. This becomes man looking to man, trusting in man for spiritual answers, instead of looking to Christ, from whom only we derive spiritual answers and hope of life eternal. Paul expounds on true faith in Romans 4:5 saying that "faith is counted for righteousness," and in Romans 5:1 that "being justified by faith, we have peace with God." Therefore, justification and righteousness come by an individual's faith in God. God's church cannot substitute anarchy for organization. The organization is from heaven, divine harmony and order are present, in which all are brethren, no hierarchy, no order of clergy, and no first minister. The highest any person can come is to the foot of the cross of Christ, where all the brethren are bowed down as equals. On earth there is only one captain - the Holy Spirit, and in heaven there is only one head of the church - Jesus Christ. To fully experience righteousness or justification by faith in Christ, it cannot be done when the third angel's message of Revelation 14 is ignored or treated as just a theory.

Enmity, the Natural Product of Grace
Christ endowed mankind with grace and truth as said in John 1:14 He came "full of grace and truth." Grace is the favor of God that is not naturally earned by man. Grace has been often interpreted as an indulgence from God granted because of the problem of sin. This interpretation puts a limit on the magnificence of God's grace. Grace is part of the glory of God which is naturally revealed in the fight against sin or unrighteousness. Grace is an energy source from God implanted into man at conversion or man's justifying [justification]. Grace creates in man a keeping power that is supernatural coming directly from God. This keeping power, the indwelling of the Holy Spirit, turns a sinful man into a sinful man by nature who can walk in truth and righteousness, obeying all God's commands. Dispensationalists believe that the age of grace started when Christ appeared as a man. This is false, for grace came into man in the being in Eden as a direct intervention of God over the introduction of sin. This is shown in Genesis 3:15 where God said "I will put enmity between thee and the woman;" "thee" here being Satan or the devil. The word "enmity" is derived from the French "enmite" where we get the word "enemy." "Enmity" is a mutual hatred; in this case of Satan and sin. When man came from creation "enmity" was not in his nature. This dispels another myth on the human nature of Christ, that of Him coming with the human nature of Adam prior to the Fall in Eden for Christ had "enmity" in His human nature. Without "enmity," this natural product of grace bestowed and received by man, he could not withstand the guile of Satan. It is only through grace and its natural by-product of "enmity" that we are given the power to obey God and keep His Laws; this is the only power that can keep man steadfast to God.

The Power of Truth
John 17:17 tells us that God's "word is truth." Paul says in Hebrews 4:12 that truth, God's word, is "powerful, and shaper than a two-edged sword…and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart." Truth is divinely sacred, powerful and the strongest force in developing a character that is righteous in the likeness of Christ. Real Christianity is when the truth of God, pure and unadulterated as it is presented in His Word, is cherished in the heart of man above all human relationships. The most powerful delusion presented by Satan is that what a man believes is of no consequence. Satan knows that the truth, as in the Word of God, is the sanctifier of a man's soul. So, false theories, church traditions, fables and compromises of truth for the sake of unity are what Paul refers to as "another gospel" in Galatians 1:6. These are all subtle viscous deceivers that lead a man to hell. But, Christ said in John 8:32 "know the truth, and the truth shall make you free." Knowledge of God's Word, the truth, is following Christ's example as laid down for us and this is what aligns a man with God. In education circles of today, 90% or more correct is consider an "A" student. However, in God's economy if a student varies in one point, that student is wrong and considered "off-base." That one point in variance is spiritually fatal, thus showing the power of God's truth to a man. Liberality in religious faith is what all the prophets in Old and New Testaments spoke against. They were defenders of the truth, pure and uncompromised. By the guidance of the Holy Spirit, we are to follow God! We are not to follow a man or teacher as he follows God; it is an individual experience with the Spirit of God as the unifier.

Christ's Divine Provision
When Christ came from heaven to walk the earth as a man, what provision of divinity did He bring with Him? To be a man is to be constantly tempted by Satan, but Satan cannot tempt God. Yet, Paul in Hebrews 4:15 said of Christ that He "was in all points tempted like as we are; and in Hebrews 5:8 said that He "learned obedience by the things which he suffered." So, when Christ came to earth He did not retain His previous omnipotence [unlimited power and influence]. For He stated clearly of Himself, as a man, in John 5:30 "I can of mine own self do nothing." Therefore, His human power was totally reliant on the power of God to overcome sin, as is ours. Also, when He came He did not retain His divine omniscience [knowledge to know the end from the beginning, complete universal knowledge] because He, Himself stated in Mark 13:32 "that day and that hour knoweth no man, no, not the angels which are in heaven, neither the Son, but the Father." He did not retain His heavenly omnipresence [present in all places at all times]. This point Christ brings forward in John 16:7 when He spoke of need of the coming "Comforter" [the Holy Spirit] to enlarge His work to all the world by the omnipresence of the Holy Spirit; a characteristic of divinity which Christ did not retain from heaven as part of His human nature. But, there was one divine provision that Christ did bring to man from heaven - His life-giving energy, which is of divine origin. This divine energy is in two parts - grace and truth. John brings this out in his discourse about the origin of Christ in John 1:14; He said, "the Word was made flesh…we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth." Now, for us to be free and rid of sin is for us to be filled with God's grace and truth, pure truth, as said in John 8:32 "know the truth and the truth shall make you free." This is the divine provision given to mankind from God in heaven, through His Son. The fruitage of this divine energy is a hatred of sin, and a great loving desire for a life of righteousness.

The Conditions For Eternal Life
The conditions for receiving eternal life at the end of living our human life are identical for those in Old Testament times as for us in and after New Testament times. The conditions that are presented by God for acceptance to heaven is that our lives on earth are lived in perfect conformity to His heavenly principles and His Law. This is very simply expressed in the Old Testament by Solomon in Ecclesiastes 12:13 as the whole duty of all mankind, as he stated "the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God and keep His commandments: for this is the whole duty of man." By this "whole duty of man" we are to be judged by God at the end of time. In the New Testament, in James 2:10 and 12 this is spoken of as the "royal law" or "law of liberty," as stated by James "For whosever shall keep the whole law, and yet offend in one point, he is guilty of all…So speak ye, and so do, as they that shall be judged by the law of liberty." This same standard of life for man has not changed since the beginning in Eden. Even Paul with his back and forth discourse in the book of Romans concludes in Roman 7:16 and 22 "I consent unto the law that it is good … I delight in the law of God after the inward man." Through the indwelling of the Spirit of God, this life designed by God can be and must be accomplished, for this is the divine way of life as Christ, our example to follow, showed to us. So let us do some honest thinking. By confessing to Christ, our past sins are covered, and we are now justified by God. We are now saved from the past sins, but what about the future? We must now day by day, moment by moment, let ourselves be controlled by the Holy Spirit so as to live this desired life-style of God and be sanctified. This is the fullness of the Gospel, "the mystery" spoken of by Paul in Colossians 1:27 "Christ in you the hope of glory."

Promise For Teachers of Righteousness
At the end of time, as referred to in Daniel 12 where Michael stands up just prior to the final great "time of trouble," a special promise is given for teachers of righteousness. Daniel 12:3 reads "they that be wise [margin: teachers] shall shine as the brightness of the firmament; and they that turn many to righteousness as the stars forever and ever." The word in Hebrew is - hammaskilim - meaning prudent and those who teach or cause to insight. This term also appears in Daniel 11:33 with the word - maskilim - as they that understand, and are persecuted for teaching their understanding. Teaching "righteousness" is teaching right doings according to God's Law. It brings to mind all the Christian martyrs who sacrificed their lives for teaching God's truth. Oh, what a marvelous promise God gives that these teachers of all ages shall be raised like the stars and shine in the firmament of heaven for all to see throughout all ages and never ending! What a reward compared to sufferings in persecution, loss of reputation, loss of property, and any ease or comfort as given to those who love the world and its gains. To be such a teacher of God's Law involves sacrifice especially where it applies to the fourth command - to keep the Sabbath hours holy. The question is continually posed - "How can you financially afford to keep the Law?" This question shows the shortsightedness of people around us, who do not understand that making strict obedience to the requirements of God needs to be of foremost consideration. The opposite of being teachers of righteousness, and the warning to them, is found in Matthew 5:19 "whosever therefore shall break one of these least commandments, and shall teach men so, he shall be called the least in the kingdom of heaven." And this warning comes just after Christ spoke of God's Law, saying, He came "to fulfill" [live the Law to the full], and that not a "jot or tittle" [dot of and I or cross of a T] will "pass till all be fulfilled," at the end of the world. What a comparison in teachers, from "least" to the most adored stars in heaven; what a promise for the teachers of righteousness.

Custom-Tailored Sanctification
God said in the beginning as recorded in Genesis 1:26 "Let us make man in our image, after our likeness." Thus He created man imbued with power like that of Himself - an individual being with power to reason, think and act in his own accord. So, looking down the ages of time to today, we visualize Christ redeeming the human race to Himself, with the ultimate objective being the restoration of that original power. This fact is brought to the forefront where the Holy Spirit assures all God's chosen people in Revelation 2:17 "him that overcometh … I will give him a white stone, and in the stone a new name written, which no man knoweth saving he that recieveth it." The "new name" reveals that of being adopted into the family of God; the "white stone" refers to when a slave was being freed from bondage was given a white stone with a new name and privileges. In our human judgment, we seem to judge sin in degrees of seriousness; however in God's reckoning sin is sin wherein we all come short of His glory. God requires our sanctification as a prerequisite for heaven. And here is where the Holy Spirit takes charge, fitting sanctification, custom tailored, to each and everyone's specific needs. The Holy Spirit fits us up to be presented in the royal courts of heaven, putting on the special robe of righteousness. Thus He perfects each one's character, pure, holy and sanctified for heaven; a custom tailored sanctification renewing God's image in us. This revival and reformation of character is real Christianity!

Hail Stones of a Talent
Revelation 16:17-21 describes the seventh plague of the series of the final seven last plagues by God to be sent just prior to Christ’s second coming in glory. In the verses it speaks of an earthquake that shakes the entire earth, islands and mountains were disintegrated, but in verse 21 a great hail storm is spoken of which says “there fell upon men a great hail out of heaven, every stone about the weight of a talent.” God has used hail storms in the past as punishment, such as the plagues in Egypt at the time of Moses, found in Exodus 9:18-35 “rain a grievous hail.” Isaiah 28:17 “the hail shall sweep away the refuge of lies;” and God tells Job about His reserved treasury of hail, in Job 38:22-23 “hast thou seen the treasures of hail, which I have reserved against the time of trouble;” the “time of trouble” is the time period of the seven last plagues of Revelation. I have witnessed the destruction of hail many times and seen hailstones about the size of golf balls. I was just reading in the memoires of Commodore David Porter USN [1780-1843] called “Constantinople and its Environs” where onboard his ship about a mile off the shore in the Bosporus, a hail storm hit his ship “large balls of ice falling … as though heavens artillery had been charged upon us … one man had his hand smashed … another was much injured in the shoulder … Mr. H. a blow to the leg … the most awful and terrific scene I ever witnessed, and God forbid that I should ever be exposed to another! Balls of ice as large as my two fists … my porter … had been knocked down by a hailstone, and had they not dragged him in by the heels, would have been battered to death … masses of from half a pound to a pound weight.” Now, I want you to consider the hailstone weight described in Revelation 16:21 “every stone the weight of a talent,” compared with Commodore Porter’s hailstone size of about one pound, a “talent” is approximately 34 kilograms or 75 pounds. That size of hailstones could pulverize buildings and anything standing; no wonder God says at the end of verse 21 “the plague thereof was exceeding great.” Thanks be to God that His true followers will be spared at this time of trouble, as said in Psalm 91:11 “There shall no evil befall thee, neither shall and plague come nigh thy dwelling.”

Who Is "The Great Prince"?
In the book of Daniel we read of the great Prince standing for His people in the time of trouble, a delivered people, those whose names are in written in a book - the Book of Life. It reads in Daniel 12:1 "at that time shall Michael stand up, the great prince which standeth for the children of thy people: and there shall be a time of trouble, such as never was since there was a nation … at that time shall thy people be delivered, every one that shall be found written in the book." There are points that are obvious in this verse that refer to the end-time just prior to Christ's return. First, "a time of trouble … such as never was since there was a nation," which is definitely end-time talk. Second, the people "delivered," "every one that shall be found written in the book," which compares to Revelation where it talks of the books opened in the final judgment scene. Now to the great prince the text refers to Him as the one who "standeth for the people" at this final time of trouble. This must represent Christ, the Saviour and Redeemer of His people at the second coming. The text however refers to Him as Michael [who is like God]. Jude 9 says Michael is the "archangel" which means - the chief or head over all the angelic host. At the end of time, when the dead are raised, it is by a voice heard from heaven; 1 Thessalonians 4:16 relates that it is the voice of this archangel. And, John 5:28-29 tells us this same voice is the voice of Christ; it states "all that are in the graves shall hear his voice." Christ is called the "Prince of life" in Acts 3:15, and in Acts 5:31 "Prince and a Saviour." In the Old Testament when God appeared to man and was bowed down to, the Jews referred to Him as an angel. Two examples of this are - first, Abraham bowed to one of the angels just prior to the destruction of Sodom [Genesis 18:1-3], and - second, Joshua bowed to the angel just prior to the fall of Jericho [Joshua 5:13-15]. So, the Great Prince and Michael appear to be Christ the Redeemer, Saviour and God the Son.

The Hated Nicolaitan Doctrine
In the messages to the seven churches in Revelation chapters 2 and 3, the doctrine and deeds of the Nicolaitans is twice condemned by Christ as "hated." Revelation 2:6 "that thou hatest the deeds of the Nicolaitans which I also hate," and verse 15 "them that hold the doctrine of the Nicolaitans, which thing I also hate." What were the deeds and doctrine of the Nicolaitans that would cause such a strong adverse reaction from God? First, it was the combining of Gnostic mysteries of spiritualism with Christianity, which, in other words, it was a blending of Greek and Oriental philosophies with Christian beliefs. Simon Magus, or Simon the sorcerer, whose story is told in Acts 8, was partially converted to Christianity, who had a large following, was throughout history pointed to as a precursor of Gnosticism. Second, Christ proclaimed that "all ye are brethren," with no one person to lord it over another. However, the name "Nicolaitan" is derived from two words "nico," meaning - to rule over, and "laitan," meaning - laity; thus a "hierarchy" where priests dictate or rule over laymen. Third, is the teaching that - we are now under grace, and in no need to obey or do the works of the Law of God. Yes, Paul in Romans 2:17 says "the just shall live by faith," and in Romans 3:28 he says "a man is justified by faith without the deeds of the Law," and then he proceeds to say in verse 31 "do we then make void the Law through faith? God forbid." Does this then contradict what James brings forth about the "royal law," the "law of liberty" [the Ten Commandment Law]? In James 2:20 he says "wilt thou know, O vain man, that faith without works is dead," and going on in verse 22 says "by works was faith made perfect." There is no contradiction between Paul and James. When properly understood, Paul condemned the works of the Law as done in the manner of the Jews, for the outward show was not the natural fruits flowing from the Holy Spirit dwelling within the man. The works James is talking about is the works of the Law being naturally done from God dwelling within the man, a truly converted person. These three things were what Christ said He hated in the Nicolaitan doctrine.

Christ, Our Creator and Redeemer
The central figure all the way through the entire Bible is Christ, first as our Creator and then as our Redeemer. The great plan of redemption and salvation of man is first witnessed in the Garden of Eden in Genesis 3:15; where God cursed the serpent and He shed innocent blood to give coats of skins to cover the sinful state of man. As to the creating of the universe, the earth and populating the earth with flora, fauna and man, look to John 1:2-4 where, speaking of Christ, John says “the same [Christ] was in the beginning with God. All things were made by him; and without him was not anything made that was made. In him was life.” And speaking of the creation of the universe turn to Hebrews 1:2 where Paul says of Christ as creator, “by whom also he made the worlds;” denoting other inhabited planets elsewhere in the universe – see Webster’s Dictionary “world – a celestial body, one that is inhabited.” Now as our Redeemer, it was Christ all through the history of the Bible who interacted with man. Paul, in 1 Corinthians 10:1-4 gives evidence that it was Christ leading Israel within the pillar of fire and cloud at the Red Sea, in giving the manna, in the water flowing from the Rock and also at the burning bush when giving the Ten Commandments. We now see that The Angel leading in the wilderness was Christ, in reading Acts 7:38 and Joshua 5:13-15. It was the Spirit of Christ who enlivened the prophets to speak inspired messages to guide His people. All through the New Testament it is Christ, living like us as a man, who gave us a living example of how to be redeemed to God. So we see that from Genesis to Revelation it is our Lord Jesus Christ, our Saviour, who sent to us the gospel of salvation.

Do Not Add Or Take Away
The Bible, God’s Word, is complete and perfect in every way. Just as said in Proverbs 30:5-6 “Every word of God is pure: he is a shield unto them that put their trust in him,” but it continues with a warning to man “Add thou not unto his words, lest he reprove thee, and thou be found a liar.” This same thought is conveyed to us in Deuteronomy 4:2 where it says, “Ye shall not add unto the word which I command you, neither shall ye diminish ought from it.” And then, the same theme from God continues, in the last words of the last book of the Bible, in Revelation 22:18-19 “If any man shall add unto these things, God shall add unto him the plagues that are written in this book: And if any man shall take away from the words of the book of this prophecy, God shall take away his part out of the book of life.” This is a very serious situation that of making the slightest alteration in God’s Word. However, over time alterations and word additions have been made to alter the context of what God has said. The very early Mormon Bible had a complete chapter added in the book of Genesis which spoke about a last-day prophet named Joseph that was to come, speaking of their first denominational leader and prophet Joseph Smith. But there are subtle changes that have been made such as the alteration in the book of John 1:1 where it says about “the Word,” Jesus Christ, “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.” The change made is in the adding of a definite article “a,” where the change made is “the Word was a god.” This change cannot be substantiated in the original Greek; the definite article “a” is not there. However, adding this “a,” the smallest of all words in the Dictionary, changes the entire concept of Christ as God. It reduces Christ to that of a created being, no more than any other mortal. As students of the Bible we need the tools of a Bible Dictionary, good Concordance and a Greek-Hebrew Interlinear for our study so as to rightly understand God’s Word.

Designs By God In Nature
Biomimetics is the engineering science of studying designs in nature which God created, and adapting machines and other devices for the benefit of mankind. Thousands of years ago God instructed us through His Word, the Bible, to do just this thing. In Job 12:7-8 we are instructed to “ask now the beasts, and they shall teach thee: and the fowls of the air, and they shall tell thee: Or speak to the earth, and it shall teach thee: and the fishes of the sea shall declare unto thee.” King Solomon admonishes us in Proverbs 6:6 “Go to the ant, thou sluggard: consider her ways, and be wise.” Even though this text is aimed as a rebuke for laziness, it fits very well for this study also. Through the science of biomimetics man is turn back to the creations of God for answers in various fields, one good example is aeronautics – the study of birds in flight. Another example is that of a Finnish engineer developing a six-legged tractor that climbs over obstacles like an insect; and the discovery of Andrew Parker in the outback of Australia of the thorny lizard who channels moisture up to the mouth through its feet, and adapting this science for people in dry lands. "Biomimetics brings in a whole different set of tools and ideas you wouldn't otherwise have," says materials scientist Michael Rubner of MIT, where biomimetics has entered the curriculum. "It's now built into our group culture" (from National Geographic article). But the question comes rebounding back, “Who really deserves the glory or credit?” All these magnificent creations are given to us from God, and as our text shows, we are to go to nature for answers, but give God the glory. In conclusion Psalms 92:4 says “For thou Lord, hast made me glad through thy work: I will triumph in the works of thy hands.”

No Contradiction Here!
There are four texts which give account of the same episode in Christ’s time on earth, that of the day of His resurrection. The four texts are Matthew 28:1; Mark 16:1-2; Luke 24:1-2 and John 20:1-2. All four texts mention that when the two Marys came to the tomb to prepare Christ’s body for a proper burial, the Sabbath was just past and it was either dusk or just before dawn on the first day of the week [Sunday]. However, no matter exactly how far past the close of the Sabbath when the women came, Jesus was already gone; He had already risen from the dead. From this theory the church adopted into its creed Sunday resurrection. This creedal doctrine has been followed through most churches for centuries, but is it entirely correct? There is one of the four texts that puts a totally different slant on this theory, it is that of Matthew 28:1 which says “In the end of the Sabbath as it began to dawn toward the first day of the week.” The Greek interlinear reads “late on Sabbath,” and instead of “dawn” it says “dusk.” I do not for a moment believe that the Bible writers contradict themselves, and I read all these texts to say – Very late on the Sabbath Christ rose from the dead and when the women came soon after, Jesus was already gone. In other words God’s Sabbath rest was finished and He was risen up to start a new task. There are other thoughts to study into with regard to the three days and three nights in the tomb; it is an engrossing study but there are no contradictions in God’s Word if studied correctly without preconceived biases.

Cycles In Our Universe
The weekly cycle of seven days, six for work and one for worship, is a legacy from God and has been followed throughout all ages of Bible history by God’s true followers, first by Adam and his generations, secondly by Abraham and the Hebrews and then the Christians as they followed Christ's example. However, this weekly cycle differs from all other cycles instituted by God in our universe for all the other universal cycles such as the day, the month, the seasons and the year were all established by the Creator as solar cycles. The weekly cycle stands alone as something special on earth for our human race, as it says in Genesis 2:2-3 "God blessed the seventh day, and sanctified it: because that in it he had rested from all his work." But, this same weekly cycle is continued in Heaven, as it says in Isaiah 66:22-23 speaking of the redeemed in heaven, “For as the new heavens and the new earth, which I will make … from one Sabbath to another, shall all flesh come to worship before me, saith the Lord.” God's notion of a Holy Sabbath is a special time on a weekly basis to cease from all secular activities, for the worship and praise of God; only with the exceptions of necessary duties such as medical duties or the feeding of animals, etc. May God be with you in keeping the sanctity of of His Sabbath, God's special day, the Lord's Day.

The Faith Of Jesus
Our world today is in turmoil, perplexed, and with all the wisdom man has seemingly achieved over time, it does not aide the problems. Men’s hearts are “failing them for fear,” and looking for the day when there will be “on earth peace, good will toward men.” Politically and economically, we are in a bad way. Socially, there is much to be desired, especially in our home life, with little respect shown to parents, with children leading the parents and totally controlling the home. Also, the appalling situations found in marital relationships. We need to look outward and upward to God for heavenly help and guidance. Christ is our only hope and this is where the remedy lies. In Revelation 14:12 God says “Here is the patience of the saints: here are they that keep the commandments of God, and the faith of Jesus.” Patience is the virtue desired, and it is through the two concepts, first of keeping Gods commandments which can only be achieved by us by, secondly, having the faith of Jesus dwelling in us. Having the kind of faith that Jesus had is to study His life as a man and live our lives by His example in regards to faith. His faith was one of total reliance upon God for power to overcome sin. This needs to be our faith! For we are told in James 2:20 “faith without works is dead" (the works being the fruitage of this faith - obedience to the commandments of God). Do you want a living faith, or are you trying to get by with one that is dead toward the commandments of God?

Natural Immortality?
The very first discourse ever preached on the subject of the immortality of the soul was made by Satan in the Garden of Eden when he stated “Ye shall not surely die.” This was also the very first lie ever told on Earth. But, even though it is a lie, it was met with great success, and ministers still preach it today. Only God has immortality as a natural trait; of which He is going to give as a gift to the redeemed souls who are taken to Heaven when Christ returns to Earth the second time. The man to whom God granted the greatest of wisdom, King Solomon, spoke extensively about death in the book of Ecclesiastes and said in one place “the dead know not anything.” Paul in the New Testament and Christ Himself spoke of death as a “sleep,” at the end of which the saved would be the awakening by the trumpet for the second coming of Christ. There are two groups of Christian today who believe error on this subject, one believing in eternal torment and purgatory at death, the other believe the opposite that all people will eventually be saved by being given a second chance. But why then is there so many statements about the eternal destruction of the wicked if there will be none; as it states in Psalm 145:20 “all the wicked will He destroy.”

Don't Jump A Step
Those who believe in natural immortality upon death, use Paul’s letter to the Philippians as proof text to support this erroneous doctrine, exactly Philippians 1:20-26. The part of the text used is “I am in a strait betwixt two, having a desire to depart, and to be with Christ, which is far better,” this is taken to mean that at death a person goes immediately to heaven to be with other deceased fellow saints and be in God’s presence. If this is so, then Paul contradicts himself in his other letters, also contrdicting all other basic Biblical teachings on the state of the dead. To understand exactly what Paul means here, you have to study Paul’s other teachings elsewhere on this subject. If this seemingly contradictory statement be true, then there would be - no need for the resurrection of Christ - no need for a final judgment, and -no need for the second coming of Christ to take His saints up to Heaven, because we would already be in Heaven enjoying the blissful state. This teaching denies basic Scripture and nullifies the resurrection of the saints at Christ's second comming. In Ecclesiastes 9:5, it tells us "the dead know not anything," also Paul and Christ teach death is but a sleep. In John 5:28 it says that "all that are in the graves shall hear his voice" at His coming. So, where in this doctrine do you fit in this intermediary step of - the sleep time of death, prior to the resurrection of the sleeping saints to rise in glory at the last trumpet sound? To believe this you just jump a step in God’s plan.

The Gospel In The Light Of The Atonement
God's at-one-ment with man, and man's at-one-ment with God - what is the Gospel, the good news about our redemption? In the New Testament, the word, atonement, is used only once. In Romans 5:11, it reads - "And not only so, but we also joy in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom we have now received the atonement." The word translated - "atonement" - is the Greek word katallage, which means reconciliation. This word is used only by Paul in the book of Romans, and his letters to the Corinthians. In II Cor. 5:18-20, Paul sets forth this reconciliation - this at-one-ment - and indicates that God has committed to us "the ministry of reconciliation." The message to be given is - "Be ye reconciled to God." God by the Cross, has been reconciled to man, but now man must be reconciled to God. The good new is that God can still be just, and yet the justifier, of those who believe on Jesus. The story of that reconciliation, how it is to be attained on the part of man, and how it is to be achieved, is to be found in the message of the Sanctuary, “for the way of God is in the Sanctuary” Psalms 77:13. This, too, is good news - The Gospel! To mitigate it, to deny it, is to preach an incomplete and partial gospel - another gospel.

We Are All Equal In God's Eyes
From creation all men are made equal, of one family and are all one through Christ’s redemption. All the walls of separation were broken down by Christ. As Paul stated in Galatians 3:26-28 “For ye are all the children of God by faith in Christ Jesus ….There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus.” Unity of believers is found through Christ. The reason for all differences, division, or discord is due to separation from Christ. Wealth, rank, status and caste systems are all degrees of smallness in God’s eyes, for God is no respecter of persons. The ultimate truth of the brotherhood of all humanity is brought out in Acts 17:26 where it states that God “hath made of one blood all nations of men.” And carrying on in verses 28 and 29 Paul said further, showing the unity of human brotherhood, that “in him [God] we live, and move, and have our being … for we are also his offspring … the offspring of God.” So, rich or poor, high or low-born, pauper or prince, we are all the offspring of God, children of the King of Heaven; and as such, are all equally obliged to give supreme allegiance to Him only, as our Father and Creator. This is what He expects equally from all humanity in the world.

Faith or Presumption?
The question that we all need to answer in our Christian walk is do I live by faith or presumption? In everything established by God, Satan has come and set up a counterfeit that runs so close to God’s truth that the Christian must have a close connection to God to discern the counterfeit. It was God who established the system of faith, faith in Christ as our substitute and helper. Faith’s counterfeit is presumption upon God to aid when we persistently countermand the commandments of God with the attitude of “it doesn’t matter, God will help anyway.” Justification, acceptance of Christ and belief in God, does not excuse us from obeying the laws God has set for mankind. Righteousness is defined by God’s standard, His Law. That nominal, so-called faith in God which teaches that God’s law is done away with and not necessary to be obeyed, is Satan’s counterfeit - presumption. To have eternal life in heavenly paradise is the ultimate aim of all who profess Christianity, yet in reading Revelation 22:14 it says about those who make it to heaven, “blessed are they that do his commandments that they might have right to the tree of life, and may enter in through the gates into the city.” By help from the Spirit in following the commandments we have earned the “right to the tree of life,” eternal life. And in Revelation 14:12 speaking of the over-comers in the end time it says “here are they that keep the commandments of God, and the faith of Jesus.” We keep the commandments in the same way our Teacher, Jesus did, by having the same faith in God to overcome sin as He did. He said of Himself, in His human nature, in John 5:19 “The Son can do nothing of himself,” and verse 30, “I can of mine own self do nothing.” Faith is not only belief in God, but submission to God’s will through love of Him, as said in Galatians 5:6 “faith which worketh by love.” And 1 John 5:3 says “this is the love of God, that we keep his commandments.” In closing read 1 John 2:4 “He that saith I know him, and keepeth not his commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him;” this is presumption!

To The Fainthearted
To those who work steadfastly for the right in the sight of God, comes the lesson from the fiery furnace in Daniel 3. Here we see Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego, three men to whom were entrusted high governmental positions, but were faithful to the one true God in their high standard of moral character, and willing to suffer a cruel death. The unwavering witness for God before earth’s most supreme authority showed they possessed genuine sanctification. They had full faith that God was able to deliver them from this fateful situation, as said in Daniel 3:17 “our God whom we serve is able to deliver us from the burning fiery furnace and he will deliver us out of thine hand, O king.” But who is the fourth man in the flames; it is Christ Himself, right there, strengthening them and giving them peace, as witnessed by King Nebuchadnezzar himself, where he said in Daniel 3:25 “I see four men loose; walking in the midst of the fire … the fourth is like the Son of God.” If you today are weak, vacillating and fainthearted in God’s cause, look to God for His aid. His close presence will comfort and lift you in your times of need, especially when you are being pushed by threats or peril from obeying your duty to God. At times like these you can expect angels, which excel in strength to protect and help you stand unmovable in His cause. When you closely ally yourself to God, standing steadfast for the right, living in total conformity to His will, obeying His commands, then you can be assured of His presence with you.

Believe and Live
John 3:36 says "He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life." This statement is absolutely true; however, it is a part of our salvation. If we take this statement as the complete entity for our salvation, then what do we do with texts such as James 2:19 where we are told that "the devils also believe, and tremble." For we know the devils will not be saved in the end, but "tremble" in their belief in God. Also, in Matthew 17:15 Jesus warns us to "beware of false prophets" or false teachers and ministers, then in verses 16 and 20 Christ tells how to know if they speak the full truth, "ye shall know them by their fruits." Then, in verse 22 He says that "Many will say unto me, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? And in thy name done may wonderful works? Notice Christ says "many" - not some or few - showing us that it is the majority that will stray from pure truth. Just because they claim to be Christian ministers of large denominations, and as said in the previous verse, they will perform miracles and wonders in Christ's name, does not mean that their personal fruits, or messages, measure up to the expectations of God. For it says in verse 21 "not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father." And, just what is the "will of my Father" that qualifies us for heaven? Well, John 14:15 says "if you love me keep my commandments," and Revelation 22:14 says "Blessed are they that do his commandments, that they might have right to the tree of life, and may enter in through the gates into the city." Then, in verse 23 of Matthew 7, to these nominal Christian workers, who work not according to God's will but their own, Jesus says "then [in the judgment] I will profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity." Finally, in verse 24 He says "whosoever heareth these sayings of mine and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man," and in closing, move over to Hosea 4:l6 where it says "my people are destroyed for lack of knowledge; because thou hast rejected knowledge, I will also reject thee." Belief in God is just the beginning of wisdom, but it is an awesome thought to blindly follow religious leaders and not come to a full knowledge of God's truth.

God's Plan For Our Salvation
After the fall of Adam and Eve God did not leave them in a perishing condition but a plan, between God the Father and God the Son, immediately came into effect for the saving of man. In Genesis 3:21 we are told "unto Adam also and to his wife did the Lord make coats of skins, and clothed them;" herein is the first animals slain as offerings for sin, and the institution of the sacrificial system, which pointed forward to Christ being the ultimate sacrifice on the cross. Revelation 13:8 speaking of Christ's sacrifice says of Him "the Lamb slain from the foundation of the world," "the foundation" indicates from the beginning in the Garden of Eden at Creation. The offering of the blood sacrifice showed man's faith in the plan set up by God for him, as pointed out in, "the Faith Chapter," Hebrew 11, especially at the start in verse 4 "by faith Abel offered unto God a more excellent sacrifice than Cain." Cain failed in his sacrifice of fruits of the field, because as said in Hebrews 9:22 "without the shedding of blood is no remission" of sin. John 3:16-17 tells us that "God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life … that the world through him might be saved." The sacrificial system came to an end when the ultimate sacrifice, the life of Christ, was made on the cross; thus showing that we are saved by the merits of Christ's blood shed for us. The priesthood also changed at that same point, Christ now being our High Priest ministering for us before God in the heavenly tabernacle or sanctuary, as relayed to us in Hebrews 8:1-2 "we have such an high priest, who is set on the right hand of the throne of the Majesty in the heavens; a minister of the sanctuary, and of the true tabernacle, which the Lord pitched." Another point showing the end of that system of worship is found in Matthew 27:51 "the veil of the temple was rent in twain from the top to the bottom." The "veil" separated the "Holy" from the "Most Holy" apartment of the temple sanctuary, the "Most Holy" apartment, only seen by the High Priest, was now, at Christ's crucifixion death, open to common view indicative of the end of to this system.

No Other gods!
In Exodus 20:3, in the first of the Ten Commandments, God says "Thou shalt have no other gods before me." The nature of all intelligent creatures is to worship, either something animate or inanimate [anything as an idol, even money] as your god. But, is it possible to truly worship God as our Creator while serving another god? Christ said in Matthew 4:10 "worship the Lord, and him only shalt thou serve," and Revelation 14:7 says "Fear [reverence] God, and give glory to him …and worship him that made heaven and earth," therefore worship and reverence God only as our Creator. This is the reason why - in Psalm 96:5 it says "For all the gods of the nations are idols: but the Lord made the heavens." The worship of heavenly bodies, as idols, has been the plague of God's professed people for ages, as witnessed in 2 Kings 21:3 speaking about King Manasseh, it says "he built up again the high places … the altars of Baal [the sun god] … and worshipped all the host of heaven, and served them." I believe Paul points to the root of today's spiritual problems in Romans 1:22-25 "when they knew God, they glorified him not as God, neither were thankful; but became vain in their imaginations [vanity in religious teachers], and their foolish heart was darkened. Professing themselves to be wise, they became fools … God also gave them up to uncleanness … to dishonor their own bodies between themselves [homosexuality, pedophiles etc. within the church ministry]: Who changed the truth of God into a lie, and worshipped and served the creature more than the Creator." Therefore becoming what is said in verse 18 "unrighteousness of men, who hold the truth in unrighteousness;" which means they "hold the truth" [have the Bible] but hold to it in "unrighteousness" [reading into the Bible what suits their itching ears], upon whom the beginning of the verse says invokes "the wrath of God." God is jealous over whom we give glory and worship to, as said in Exodus 20:5 "I the Lord thy God am a jealous God."

How Important Is Sound Doctrine
Following and obeying true, sound doctrine is of vital importance and to be sought for as for hidden treasure. It says in Matthew 15:9 "in vain they do worship me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men." Worshipping God in vain, what a horrible thought, but this is being done in many Christian circles because of following the commandments of men rather than the commandments of God. John 17:17 says we are to be sanctified or made pure and holy, but how? "Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth." And we are given warnings, such as found in Proverbs 28:9 "He that turneth away his ear from hearing the law, even his prayer shall be abomination." When we keep turning our ear away from fully following God's Law, even though it is said God forgives, our prayers under this situation become an abomination to Him. What an awful situation to be found in. If we continue in this situation, Christ said in Matthew 15:14 "Let them alone: they be blind leaders of the blind. And if the blind lead the blind, both shall fall into the ditch." It is the duty of every person to study deep in all subjects to know where you stand spiritually, and why? Because in 2 Timothy 4:3-4 it says "For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears; And they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables." Stay focused on the truth, with your eyes fixed on Christ and His leadings.

High-Handed Power
The lording over God's heritage that is witnessed in Christian denominations today is one of the most abominable sights in the eyes of God. This high-handed power that has developed over the centuries should be a fearful warning to true Godly believers. But too many nominal Christians stand in awe as these leaders flaunt their titles and degrees to show their authority. Is this what Christ taught? In Matthew 23:8-10 we listen to Christ speaking about the great teachers of His day, saying "be not ye called Rabbi: for one is your Master even Christ; and all ye are brethren. And call no man father upon earth: for one is your Father, which is in heaven. Neither be ye called masters: for one is your Master, even Christ." What God raised, through Christ, was simple laborers, who in their own self had no special learning or degrees to tout, but became great only through special help sent to them from God. This is available to anybody, anywhere. These titles assumed today, "Holy Father," "Father," "Right Reverend," "Very Reverend," "Reverend" and "Doctor of Divinity," are tiles only applicable to God, not any man, as said in Psalm 111:9 "holy and reverend is his name." These men have assumed godly titles and positions, and set themselves up as the only source to go to for the dispensing God's truth, and this, for molding other men's minds after their teachings. Mind control is the name of the game in religious circles today, and this is something to be fearful of. This is exactly as it was with the Jewish leaders at the time of Christ, and deserves the same rebukes as Christ gave the church leaders of His day. These rebukes also serve as a warning from Christ to us for today, because, in the end, we will be individually accountable before God for our life's actions.

Repent, The Gospel Message
Through the entire Bible, cover to cover, the constant messages to mankind are the same - Repent and turn your allegiance from serving Satan in sin, to worshipping God as your Creator and Saviour. First, what does "repent" mean? Webster says "repent" means "turn from sin and dedicate yourself to God"; and "sin" is defined in 1John 3:4 as "sin is transgression of God's Law [the Ten Commandments]." This message of repentance is shown throughout the Old Testament and especially brought forth in God's message to King Ahab by the prophet Elijah in 1 Kings 18:21 "Elijah came unto all the people, and said, How long halt ye between two opinions? If the Lord be God, follow him." In the New Testament, John the Baptist's message is called "the Elijah message" for it carried the identical message of repentance, in Matthew 3:2 it says "Repent ye: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand." And following this same theme, at the beginning of Christ's preaching He starts with the same message as found in Matthew 4:17 "Jesus began to preach, and to say, Repent: for the kingdom of God is at hand." Repentance is a battle with self, and this battle is only won by following four logical steps which are found in Psalms 51:3-10. First - in verse 3 it tells us to acknowledge our sin; secondly - in verse 4 we are admonished to realize that our sin hurts God, "against thee, thee only have I sinned;" then, thirdly - in verse 7 we are told to invite God into our hearts, "purge me …wash me;" and finally - in verse 10 we are told to call on God's re-creative power to change our thinking, "Create in me a clean heart O God." So we see that repentance is a complete surrender of ego, or self to God. And always remember what is said in Psalm 53:1 "The fool hath said in his heart, There is no God."

The Transgressor's Fate
First is needed some definitions, such as what is meant by "transgression?" To "transgress" or to "sin" is to violate a law, and in this spiritual sense, it is God's Law of Ten Commandments. It is just as said in 1 John 3:4, as a definition of "sin," "sin is transgression of the law." So now, as to the eventual fate of a transgressor or sinner, Paul says in Romans 6:23 "the wages of sin is death;" and "death," Webster says is "to cease to live, or perish, or come to nothing." Jesus said in Luke 13:3 "except ye repent, ye shall all likewise perish;" and "repent" is to cease sinning or breaking God's Law in any one point. Now as to "perishing," what is that condition or result? 2 Peter 2:12 tells us "But these, as natural brute beasts, made to be taken and destroyed, speak evil of the things that they understand not; and shall utterly perish in their own corruption;" and now compare that to what is said in Psalms 37:20 "the wicked shall perish, and the enemies of the Lord shall be as the fat of lambs; they shall consume; into smoke shall they consume away;" and also compare these to Proverbs 10:25 "As the whirlwind passeth, so is the wicked no more;" and finally Malachi 4:1 "For the day cometh, that shall burn as an oven; and all the proud, yea, and all that do wickedly, shall be stubble; and the day that cometh shall burn them up, saith the Lord of hosts, that it shall leave them neither root nor branch." Two forms of cleansing, washing with water and burning with fire are used by God, He washed the world with a flood at the time of Noah, and now we are awaiting the final cleansing by fire. You must know in your heart where you stand in the eyes of God!

Souls Under the Altar
A picture is presented to us in Revelation 6:9-11 "when he opened the fifth seal, I saw under the altar the souls of them that were slain for the word of God, and for the testimony which they held: and they cried with a loud voice, saying, How long, O Lord, holy and true, dost thou not judge and avenge our blood on them that dwell on the earth? And white robes were given unto every one of them." The sign of "the fifth seal," chronologically represents the period of the Reformation. Here we see a symbolic picture of martyred souls under an altar on which they were slain, crying to God for vengeance, and God granting those white robes, a symbol of purity in true doctrine, so they are ready for dwelling in Heaven. A popular view of this is that these souls are disembodied spirits living in Heaven under the altar there. This view is inadmissible for John saw this altar on earth not in Heaven, for the only altar in Heaven is "the altar of incense," and that altar was never used to offer human sacrifices. Also, as to disembodied spirits crying to God, this is a pictorial symbolism, the same as used in Genesis 4:9-10 where it said the blood of Abel cried from the ground and Habakkuk 2:11 where it talks of the stones of the wall crying out, and the beam out of the timber answered it. This is a totally repulsive idea of a heavenly state where souls are shut up under an altar. Therefore, with the textual examples above, the souls mentioned could cry out for vengeance, yet not be in an actual conscious state of being.

Church and State
Church and State occupy two distinctly different realms. The realm of the Church is the realm of morals, related to the inner heart of man and the future life to come. Whereas, the realm of State is the realm of civics, related to the outward man in today's world affairs. The Church, abiding in its realm can never interfere with State interests, and a State, properly constituted, should not interfere in religious affairs. The conscience of the individual, in this regard, shone forth at the messages of Christ, which were thoroughly upheld in the beginnings of the Gospel, when Christ in Matthew 22:21 said "render therefore unto Caesar the things which are Caesar's; and unto God the things which are God's." The religion of every man must be left to the conviction and conscience of each and every man, and his right to dictate for himself in spiritual affairs, this is individuality in religion. This was the spirit of the Reformation. The Bible, God's Word is the only book for the Christian, not traditions of the Church, as said in Matthew 15:9 "in vain they do worship me, teaching for doctrine the commandments of men." The Bible, His Word, is all sufficient, as we read in 2 Timothy 3:16-17 "all scripture is given by inspiration of God and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works." Notice in this text it is addressed to "the man of God," which is an individual message to each person; individuality in your religious experience. Of God, and His Word, we are told, in Colossians 2:3-4 "in whom are hid all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge. And this I say, lest any man should beguile you with enticing words." Then, the warning for us comes from 1 Corinthians 1:19-20 "I will destroy the wisdom of the wise and bring to nothing the understanding of the prudent … hath not God made foolish the wisdom of this world?"

The Cord of Love
Love! What it all comes down to in the end is the exemplification of supreme love to God shown in true Christianity. God says in John 14:15 “If you love me keep My commandments.” As with a young plant, love must be cherished and nurtured when cultivating it, you must weed out pride and selfishness so that love may spread into the mind and heart embracing God and your fellow man. Jesus said in John 13:34 “A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you.” This is really not a new commandment, but a condensing of the last six of the Ten Commandments, which covers man’s love and duty to his fellow man. The first four of the Ten Commandments cover man’s love, respect and duty to God. It is also explained another way by Christ when he spoke of two great commandments in Matthew 22:37-40 “love the Lord thy God with all your heart, with all thy soul, and with all thy mind. This is the first great commandment;” “and the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself.” However, it goes on to say that this is the base of the entire law, “On these two commands hang all the law.” In Matthew 5:17 Jesus said “Think not that I am come to destroy the law … I am not come to destroy, but to fulfil;” the word “fulfil” means – to satisfy or measure up to, the demands of God’s law. Now, to fully realize the importance of the law as a salvation issue, we look at Matthew 19:16-17 where Jesus is asked about how to attain eternal life, He answered “if thou wilt enter into life [eternal life], keep the commandments.” Then looking back to Matthew 4:19 He gives warning to those who break just one of the commandments, and a special warning goes out to spiritual leaders who teach men to break just one of the commandments. This cord of love from God grows making the connection with Him more perfect. In this infinite growth, we lose the ways of the stubborn, impulsive child who is constantly trying to drop the hand that is leading him, instead of holding on and walking closer to Christ as his guide. God be with you in your studies.

Disappointments
Throughout our lives we will experience many disappointments, all of which are in the hands of God. Therefore, how we approach and deal with these disappointments is directly related to our relationship with God. A disappointment usually comes from errors of some kind that need to be corrected, but should not lead to a casting away of our confidence in God. In the history of Israel in the Old Testament many times they were disappointed due to wrongs committed, and often they denied God's divine guidance and required correction. The Great Disappointment of millions of Christians world-wide in 1844, resultant from an error made in the 2300 day/year prophecy of Daniel 8:14, came not in the calculation of the time aspect of the prophecy, but in the nature of the event to occur. The event was not the Second Coming of Christ but the cleansing of the Heaven Tabernacle by Christ, our heavenly High Priest. Another great disappointment came for the Jews at the close of the preaching of John the Baptist when Jesus was presented as the promised and awaited Messiah; he came as the suffering Messiah not the conquering Messiah. Both Messianic types are prophesied, for two different time periods. Yet another great disappointment came to Christ's disciples when Jesus said He was going back to His Father and they were to be left for a time with anguish and suffering before the Holy Spirit came at Pentecost. Disappointments are sent as admonitions for us to correct the wrongs and not fall into unbelief and a denial of God's guidance.

Isaiah, Prophet of Righteousness
Applying the spirit of the messages given to the Jews by Isaiah is really needed in the Christian circles of today. Isaiah, whose name means "Jehovah is salvation," really lived up to his name as a prophet of righteousness, holiness, justice and had a profound grasp of the importance of high spiritual values. History shows that he was married, had two sons, lived in Jerusalem, was of royal blood being a cousin to King Uzziah and therefore connected to the royal court as an advisor. His prophetic messages were given during the reign of kings Uzziah [also called Azariah], Jotham, Ahaz, Hezekiah and Manaasseh. He was a prophet of faith, consecration and courage especially during the times of invasions by Tiglath-Pileser III 734-32 BC, Shalmaneser IV and Sargon II 725-20 BC, Sargon 712-10 BC and Sennacherib in 701 [2 Kings 15 -18]. During these threatening times pay-off to the invader was customarily done, but Isaiah encouraged spiritual reformation in righteousness, faith and trust in God for protection. For pay-offs are only temporary easements, whereas a complete repentance in turning to God in righteousness is a permanent remedy, which is the same need for today. God did deliver them as read in 2 Kings 19, but it was only through a thorough spiritual reformation as witnessed at the time of Hezekiah when the people humbled themselves before God and sought forgiveness of sins. The ways of God never change; the same things are expected by Him now as they were then. So, follow what Isaiah said in 55:6 "Seek ye the Lord while he may be found, call ye upon him while he is near," and your reward is in 54:13 "all thy children shall be taught of the Lord; and great shall be thy peace."

You Cannot Conceal True Love
The character of God is recorded and shown to us in His Ten Commandment law. Obedience to this law is the fruit of God’s grace working through us. Speaking of the followers of Christ through history it is said in Matthew 7:20 “Wherefore by their fruits ye shall know them.” Our supreme love to God will be shown by these fruits. It has been repeated in many different ways in Scripture the importance of this law in statements such as “if you love me keep my commandment” etc. and in speaking of the end time saved, “Here are they that keep the commandment of God.” Talking of “keeping” of the law, it carries the same connotation as our laws today, offend in one point and you have broken all “the law.” Ninety percent correct is not good enough in God’s eyes. If we abide in Christ as our only true example to follow His character will be revealed in us. May God be with you as you dig further for truth.

God's Wisdom In Nature
God's creative energies work in nature today just as they did originally in the creation of our universe, especially our planet earth. The operations of nature should be held in highest importance, second only to the Bible. All the many natural cycles God established need to be understood; the heavenly cycles of day, month and year; also the cycle of water, the carbon and oxygen cycle and the nitrogen cycle. Today, the new push on recycling was originally part of God's plan from creation. One of the greatest students of nature was King Solomon; in Ecclesiastes 1:9 he said "there is no new thing under the sun," and in verse 14 "I have seen all the works [of man] that are done under the sun; and, behold, all is vanity," - attempts by science to improve on what God has so well established. And speaking of wisdom and knowledge Solomon says in Proverbs 1:7 "the fear [respect or reverence] of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge: but fools despise wisdom and instruction." A well balanced mind and a symmetrical character only come from a strong connection with God as said in Proverbs 2:6 "for the Lord giveth wisdom: out of His mouth cometh knowledge and understanding." In 1 Kings 4:29-31 it says "God gave Solomon wisdom and understanding … and Solomon's wisdom excelled the wisdom of all the children of the east country … he was wiser than all men." To study God's second book, nature, you need to ask God to impart that same wisdom He gave to Solomon; it is there for the asking. In the closing hours of Solomon's life he sums up life, and admonished his son and those around, in saying in Ecclesiastes 12:13 "Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear [reverence or respect] God, and keep [all] his commandments: [Why?] For this is the whole duty of man." God be with you as you study.

Glorify God!
When Jesus was here on earth working the works of God, He said in John 5:30 "I can of mine own self do nothing." It was only through strength from His Father that Jesus, in His human form, was able to carry on His work. Christ gave His Father the glory for everything He did and so should we. It is the same for us today, and that was His example for us to follow. David in Psalms 34:2 says "My soul shall make her boast in the Lord: the humble shall hear thereof and be glad." Christ did not come to this world to receive any applause, and nor should we expect applause as we labor for God. The person, who has least confidence in self, putting ego in the dust, but has the greatest confidence in God, is the one who is the closest to God, relying on Him for imputing strength for daily toils. Too many today, as Christian singers and leaders expect and revel in the applause and accolades given to them. Give the glory to God! It is God who made us what we are, and can become. In Numbers 14:20-21 Moses declared to Israel, "As truly as I live, all the earth shall be filled with the glory of the Lord." Part of God's character make-up is His glory, and this is what Moses pleaded for Israel to reveal to the heathen nations - God's Glory. And this is our task as Christians, to reveal the glory of God to all nations. Then, and only then, can we cry out as said in Isaiah 6:3 "Holy, holy, holy, is the Lord of hosts: the whole earth is full of His glory."

Be Not Deceived
Be watchful at every turn in your Christian walk, for those who do not have a close connection with God, the warning comes in 1 Peter 5:8 "Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil [Satan], as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour." Satan especially attacks those in High places, just as he attacked the priests, in the time of Christ, with all kinds of false theories and teachings. The same is happening all around us today, as Satan plays mind games with the spiritual leaders in our churches, presenting all kinds of false theories, just as he did with Adam and Eve in the garden where he told the first lie ever uttered on earth, "thou shalt not surely die." And on that one lie alone, have been based many erroneous doctrines. Paul tells us in 2 Timothy 2:15 to "study to show yourself approved unto God." It says "yourself" and not anybody else; it is personal and individual relationship between you and God. But, pray earnestly for God's Spirit to guide and open His truths as you study. Remember what Paul also said in 1 Timothy 4:1 "Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils." The saddest part of all is that in these delusions the spiritual leaders will outwardly show the form of godliness, but will not have the power of God with them, as said in 2 Timothy 3:5 "Having the form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away." Another warning shines out from the words of Isaiah 8:20 "To the law [ten commandment law] and to the testimony [God's Word]: if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them."

Everlasting Hell Fire?
The term "everlasting torment" used by false theology is being substituted for God's truth; it is to be rather used as "everlasting destruction" which is biblically correct. More reliable information to ascertain the precise and accurate nature, duration and consequences of hell-fire, the "eternal hell fire" spoken of to punish the wicked at the end of time can be seen in the example given by God in these verses Matthew 18:8-9; Hebrews 12:29; and Jude 7. The punishment cited is such as what happened to the populous of Sodom and Gomorrah as cited in Jude 7 "giving themselves over to fornication, and going after strange ["other" - other than natural - i.e. homosexuality lesbianism] flesh, are set forth for an examples, suffering the vengeance of eternal fire." The fires of judgment were of a nature of utter destruction, everlasting burning, burning until there was no more fuel for the flames, nothing but ashes. This everlasting fire continued until there was nothing more to consume; but not as is so regularly misinterpreted, a continued life of everlasting misery in hell. This is more to what God's example shows will be at the end of the age when Christ returns again.

Death and Immortality
Immortality is an attribute of God alone, and is only referred to for man, as a gift from God given to those only who are His true followers, and not given to the wicked. The word "immortal" is only said once in the entire Bible and refers to God, it is in 1 Timothy 1:17 "unto the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only wise God, be honor and glory." And the term "immortality" have five references all in the New Testament, one referring to God [1 Timothy 6:16] the others referring to the gift of immortality to those who live righteous in the eyes of God [Romans 2:7; 1 Corinthians 15:53-54; 2 Timothy 1:10]. There is only one piece of Scripture that is relied upon to support the doctrine of the immortality of the soul at death, and that of the so-called - purgatory. It is found in Luke 16:19-31, which is the parable of the rich man and Lazarus. This is a parable [a story with a moral] not a historic fact. A parable must always be interpreted by the established teachings of Scriptural truth. That is why, when it comes to establishing Christian doctrines, parables are never used as a source of support of such. Parables are fable stories used to point out morals and can be found in both Old and New Testaments. Now, on the other hand, if this parable is a historic fact, as some say, it must line up with all other texts on the state of the dead, showing that "the dead know not anything," and having know form of consciousness, such texts as Ecclesiastes 9:5-6, Psalm 146:3-4, Ecclesiastes 9:10, all agree with no contradictions. This is not the case, in comparing Luke 16:19-31 with the other passages, they do contradict. Therefore, the story in Luke 16 is in fact, a parable. So the Scriptural teaching about the state of the dead is true, and this parable is not to be used to expound any sort of doctrine.

Remember
The word “remember” by definition means, to recall to mind some thing or occurrence which happened previously. God uses this term “remember” in the Ten Commandments in regard to the Sabbath day of the fourth commandment. When God says to remember something, it must be of great importance to Him. He also says to keep “it” holy, not any day we choose but “it,”the particular day He chose. But why “it” especially? Because, when looking back to its original conception on earth, at creation, we find in Genesis 2:2-3 “God blessed the seventh day, and sanctified it.” There are two words in the texts to note, “blessed” and “sanctified.” First the word “blessed” means that, of the week, that day in particular is a “special object of divine favor”[Webster's Dictionary]. And secondly, “sanctified” has the meaning of “God setting something aside especially for holy use.” So, in conclusion we find, that all through the week we worship God, but, of the week, God has one special day completely devoted to His service. As it says in Exodus 20:9-10 "six days shalt thou labour and do all thy work: But the seventh day is the sabbath of the Lord thy God: in it thou shalt not do any work." One day, that is the special object of divine favor, that He set aside for holy use. The keeping of the Sabbath day is the golden clasp that unites God to His people.

Bethlehem's Lesson
When Christ was born in Bethlehem there was no evidence in Judah that he was even expected by the people. But really, in looking back, the people were negligent, because actually they should have been excitedly watching and expecting his soon arrival. The fault actually lies at the feet of the spiritual leadership, the priests and scribes, to whom were entrusted the oracles of God. They should have been able to discern the signs of His soon coming. The prophecies of Micah 5:2, Daniel 9:25-27, etc. specified exactly the place and time of His arrival or advent. These spiritual guides of Israel were without excuse; it was pure sinful neglect and ignorance resultant from pride on their part. Only the three wisemen, or magi, kings of foreign nations read the signs by God, and came asking “Where is he that is born King of the Jews,” [Matthew 2:2] in anticipation of His immediate birth. We are seeming to follow into the same intellectual traps described in 2 Timothy 3:7 where it says "ever learning [getting higher education], and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth." What a lesson for us today awaiting His second advent! Let us not be rebuked by God for our laxness and indifference. Study the time prophecies of Daniel, Revelation, etc.

Without Spot Or Wrinkle
As Christ's followers we are to be true and pure, denying self and showing love to all. This was Christ's example to us when He lived here on earth. Being Christian means to be Christ-like, so let us live up to this name. In Ephesians 5:25-27 it says, "Even as Christ also love the church, and gave himself for it; … that he might present it to himself a glorious church, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing; but that it should be holy and without blemish." In this world of iniquity and corruption, Christians are to reveal the attributes of Christ. We must surrender ourselves to Christ so that He can finish the work in us, so as to make us ready subjects for His kingdom. Just as Christ, in His humanity totally relied on His Father for strength; so, we are to fully rely on Him to encourage and strengthen us for our daily task. As Jesus said, "of mine own self I can do nothing." He fully surrendered to the Father; so also must we. This is the only way to live; by looking constantly to Him, and Him only, for guidance in your daily deportment. It is difficult to appreciate our Savior in the deepest sense until we can visualize Him through the eyes of faith, reaching to the deepest depths of human degradation and touching those in need; using His divine power to raise them to companionship with Himself. As Jesus showed, it is through suffering and conflict that liberty, love and the future life immortal is to be won. But do not fear, Christ is with us to help us overcome in these trials. All we need to do is ask for help. As it states in Hebrews 2:10 "for it became him, for whom are all things, and by whom are all things, in bringing many sons unto glory, to make the captain of their salvation perfect through suffering." God be you as you study.

What Work Shall I Do For God?
Just how much we as Christ’s followers prize the salvations He has wrought out for us through His conflicts and sufferings will be shown by how closely we follow the example given to us by Him. Look constantly to Him and Him only, for guidance in your daily deportment. As Christians God gave us the commission to go forth and preach to our fellows in His name. Why is it then, that most of us stumble with uncertainty as to what Christ would have us to do. The Bible shows us what we are to be doing. John 8:12 tells us “He that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.” Also in Mark 8:34 it states “Whosoever will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me.” Let us ever look to Jesus as our example to follow. That is why He came, to save us and to give us a living illustration of service to work for God. Everywhere today you can find in Christian stores pins and such with the letter "WWJD" meaning - in every situation ask yourself the question "What Would Jesus Do?" But why do we complicate matters with personal phylosophical ideas wrought out in so called "higher education"? All Jesus said was, “Follow Me,” and "if you love me keep My Commandments;" do this and everything else falls into place. May God be with you as move on in your studies.

The Heart Of Christ's Work Today
Paul and John teach us that the main work of Christ today is as our Mediator and High Priest before God the Father in the heavenly sanctuary. Paul shows this through his comparisons, primarily in the Book of Hebrews, of the sanctuary services set up by Moses for the people of Israel. The sanctuary, or tabernacle was a pattern or earthly copy of what Moses was shown by God in vision of the heavenly tabernacle. All the services that the priests performed in the sanctuary pointed forward in time to the coming Messiah, and which came to an end when Christ died on the cross as the final ultimate sacrifice for sin. In Hebrews 8:1,2, Paul says “Now of the things which we have spoken this is the sum: We have such an high priest, who is set on the right hand of the throne of the Majesty in the heavens; a minister of the sanctuary, and of the true tabernacle, which the Lord pitched, and not man.” In the Book of Revelation John in vision was shown inside the heavenly sanctuary, “seven lamps of fire burning before the throne,” Rev. 4:5, and “having a golden censer; and there was given unto him much incense, that he should offer it with the prayers of all saints upon the golden altar which was before the throne,” Rev. 8:3. Also in Rev. 11:19 John saw within the veil of the Most Holy apartment “the ark of his testament,” the same ark as was in the Old Testament tabernacle, the ark which contained the stones of the ten commandment law. The sanctuary in heaven today is the center for Christ’s work on behalf of us as our High Priest.

Lord Teach Us To Pray
The Lord’s Prayer as given in Luke 11:2-4 was told to the followers of Christ in response to the request of them “teach us to pray.” This is given to us today as an illustration of how to pray, not as words to be repeated continually as a ritual or form. The illustration Jesus gave showed the order of process in prayer. First, we are to address the prayer to God the Father, just as Christ did. Secondly, we are to make our petitions to God the Father through Christ the Son, because He is our only mediator between man and God; for as Jesus said “ask in My Name.” So many times (especially taught in the children’s divisions) we hear prayers directed to Christ, through Christ, which is not the proper way of praying in Jesus’ example given in response to “Lord teach us to pray.” The example here given by Christ can be plainly seen in court proceedings, how the Judge is addressed by Council or a lawyer advocate. The Bible teaches this readily, how Christ is our Advocate before God the Father, and speaks in our behalf. In the Old Testament it was the High Priest who was the Advocate between God and the people of Israel. Today, in the New Testament the Word of God illustrates how Christ is the High Priest advocating for us in the Heavenly Sanctuary before God’s throne. Always keep in mind that the life of our soul is completely dependent upon our continual communion with God our Father. Our prayers are with you as you study to uncover more and more truth.

Control Of Your Tongue
Solomon said in Proverbs 18:21 "Death and life are in the power of the tongue;" and David said in Psalm 34:13 "Keep thy tongue from evil, and thy lips from speaking guile." As Christians it is vitally important that our example to the world is correct, especially in our speech. Our speech should not reflect levity or cheapness and should be helpful and encouraging to our fellow man. Loud and boisterous conduct in speaking dishonors God. We must realize that God hears every word we say and will be holding us accountable. In Philippians 2:12 the apostle Paul says we have to “work out our own salvation with fear and trembling,” but why? Because of misrepresenting your faith in God by lightness, joking and trifling, for by this you are giving the wrong impression of the truth you profess. We are to be happy rejoicing Christians but when we go over the line, as spoken of above, we go too far. Every hour we need to realize that the Lord is near, and by dishonoring Him in our type and tone of speech imperils not only our own soul but the souls of those we influence around us. Hear James 3:6 and 13 "the tongue is a fire, a world of iniquity... it defileth the whole body, and setteth on fire the course of nature;" and "Who is a wise man and endued with knowledge among you? let him shew out of a good conversation his works with meekness of wisdom." Study more at www.AncientBibleStudy.com.

Our Cycles of Time
The cycles in our world today are all based on our solar system, such as the day, month, seasons and year. But there is one cycle that does not fit into the pattern, and that is the weekly cycle, which is a direct institution out of heaven from God. The weekly cycle of seven days was set up on earth at creation, with the crowning finale of the seventh day called by God “My Sabbath.” In Genesis 2:1-3 it states "on the seventh day God ended His work which He made; and He rested from all His work which God created and made. God rested on it ; He blessed it; He sanctified it." And John 1:3, speaking of Christ, it says "all things were made by Him;" this also borne out in Ephesians 3:9; Colosians 1:16; Hebrews 1:2. This points out that Christ, the active agent of the Godhead in creation must also have rest on the Sabbath with the Father, making the Sabbath His rest day as well. The Sabbath is not a Jewish institution, for it began at creation thousands of years befor the first Jew. Mark 2:27 states "the Sabbath was made for man," meaning all mankind. The seventh day as it states in the book of Genesis was especially set aside from the other days as “blessed” and “sanctified,” which by definition means – set apart from all the other days of the week especially for holy use. The weekly cycle has been carried on from the beginning by God’s people; the pagans had no cycle like this throughout history with the exception of the early Babylonians who held to taboos on the seventh and fourteenth days but this cycle was short lived. The Romans in the early days had an eight day cycle and the Greeks a ten day cycle but these were market-day cycles with no religious intent. Only the Jews and the early Christians carried the seven day cycle though without interruption. Some people maintain that this cycle was altered by the calendar change from the Julian to the Gregorian calendar, but in a deeper look you will find that the numbering of the days were changed, but not the day of the weekly cycle as such. Therefore our weekly cycle has not been altered at all from creation, and has been reaffirmed by all the patriarchs, prophets, Christ and His Apostles.

A Thirst For Knowledge And Wisdom
Where and how does knowledge start in your life? Proverbs 1:7 says "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge: but fools despise wisdom and instruction;" and Psalms 14:1 tells us that "the fool hath said in his heart, there is no God." The "fear" of God is not dread or terror, but the definition of "fear" in this case is respect and reverence. However, many professing Christians place the majority of the Old Testament in the classification of fables, and say "we follow Jesus in the New Testament theology." But, how is this done? The New Testament writers and Christ, relied fully on all the Old Testament for their doctrinal references - since the New Testament was not written yet! Full faith and trust in God, in both Old and New Testament is essential, as Solomon said in Proverbs 3:5-6 "Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths." The Gospel message of "repent and turn to God" in simple faith and away from man-made traditions and teachings, is the same message of the Old Testament. For in Proverbs 1:23-29 it says to "turn you at my reproof" [repent and turn around to God]: and "behold, I will pour out my spirit unto you, I will make known my words unto you," showing no room here for self or egotistic knowledge and theories, for here God say "I" will do all these things. Then, He goes into the reproofs and the eventual destruction with the answer of why all this happened, in verse 29, saying "for that they hated knowledge, and did not choose the fear of the Lord." And, in Proverbs 2:6 it says that "the Lord giveth wisdom;" it is His gift to us. Then, following up the invitation to accept God's gift of wisdom, it says in verses 10-11 "when wisdom entereth into thine heart, and knowledge is pleasant unto thy soul; discretion shall preserve thee, understanding shall keep thee." Respect for God and His gift creates pleasantness and discretion, not self-seeking and egotistic philosophical arrogance. In conclusion, in Proverbs 3:7 it says "be not wise in thine own eyes."

What Is Happening In Our World?
Is it even conceivable that God would create our world, populate it with billions of people, and give them no guide or reason for there existence? That is totally unreasonable! And just as surely as there is a judgment by God to come, God also gave us an infallible guideline to follow so we may be acceptable to Him in the judgment. He has also given shepherds to guide His flock, but He also warns us to beware of false shepherds or guides. It is our own personal responsibility to acquaint ourselves with His Bible truth. About His Word, in 2 Timothy 3:16 it says "All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable … for instruction in righteousness;" and in 2 Peter 1:21 we are told "the prophecy came not … by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost." In the Psalm 119:105 King David admits "thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path;" and John in Revelation 1:3 tells of a blessing that is pronounced to those who dig for truth, in saying "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." Yes, the "time is at hand," Revelation 1:1 says the time is at hand for "the revelation [revealing] of Jesus Christ … to show unto His servants things which must shortly come to pass." In witnessing what is happening in our world today, we know it is the time for Christ to come, to make an end and re-create anew. Just as He re-created at the time of Noah using one of His two natural cleaning agents, water. The next re-creating, which we are waiting for, He will use the other agent, fire. [Read Luke 17:26-29]

Who Make-Up The 144,000
The first reference to the 144,000 is found in Revelation 7:4-8 in which we find the make-up described as 12,000 from each tribe of Israel. But in actuality there were 13 tribes because the tribe of Levi was not counted in the twelve for it was the Priesthood, and the tribe of Joseph was made of two tribes [his sons] Ephraim and Manasseh. Paul in Romans 2:28-29 points out that all God's people, Jew and Gentile make-up spiritual Israel. In the description of this elite group we will see that, to God, the 12 tribes are a symbol of completeness and totality. For in reading the experiences this group endures at the end of time shows it cannot be the actual 12 tribes. The points to consider are: First the 144,000 of Revelation 7 are the same as the 144,000 of Revelation 14; the redeemed living saints from earth at Christ's second coming. Secondly, the identical description fits to those over comers of Revelation 3, the church of Philadelphia who are kept by God from "the hour of temptation" at the end of time. Thirdly, they have "the Fathers name written in their foreheads," they sing the song of victory of the redeemed "a new song" as in Revelation 15:3 "the song of Moses…and the song of the Lamb [Christ]." Fourthly, this group is "not defiled with women, for they are virgins" Revelation 14:4, ["woman" in prophecy signifies a type of church] showing, in the final days, purity of religious life amid corruption of compromise in the professed Christian churches. Fifth, as said in Revelation 7:2-3 this group has the "seal of the living God…in their forehead," and the seal of God is found in the fourth commandment showing God as Creator and symbolized by Sabbath [Saturday] worship. The final point is that there is a sealing message [Revelation 7:1-3] directed to the 144,000 only, and God holds back the four destroying angels until this sealing work in His people is completed. But the group, the 144,000, are made-up partly of the group described above [the living] who are sealed by God for the final conflict, and partly by those [the dead] who are sealed by God but die during the final conflict just prior to Christ's second coming.

First Fruits To God
The term "first fruits" is used many times in the Old and New Testaments of the Bible as a choice offering to God. However, in all the references to "first fruits" there are four basic types referred to. The first, being that of Christ offering Himself as a substitute for us in His death on the cross and His resurrection from the dead. Thus being raised to present Himself to God as Paul said in 1 Corinthians 15:20 "now is Christ …become the first fruits of them that slept," and thus bringing to light the shadow portrayed in the offering of the first fruit of the Wave Sheaf offering in the Old Testament Passover Feast. The second type reference to "first fruits" is that of those living converts to the Gospel who followed after Christ's teachings. Good references to this are found in Romans 16:5 where Paul says "salute my well beloved Epaenetus, who is the first fruits of Achaia unto Christ;" also James 1:18 referring to the early converts "that we should be a kind of first fruits." The third type of "first fruits" are the chosen Old Testament saints who were raised from death to life in the special resurrection at Christ's death on the cross, as shown in Matthew 27:52-53 "graves were opened and many bodies of the saints which slept arose … went into the holy city, and appeared unto many" as witnesses for Christ. This particular group is the light of the foreshadowing of the Feast of Pentecost. The fourth term "first fruits" applies to a special group spoken of as the 144,000, and are the ones alive at Christ's second coming, who never see death. This is told in Revelation 14:4 "these were redeemed from among men, being the first fruits unto God and to the Lamb."

The Hour Of Temptation
Revelation 3:10 tells us that “because thou hast kept the word of my patience, I also will keep thee from the hour of temptation … to try them that dwell upon the earth.” And in the next verse we are to “hold that fast which thou hast,” in other words, keep His Word and hold fast to the truths we have received from it. However, the “hour of temptation” comes as shown in Revelation 13 in the description of the “mark of the beast” and other happenings around it. For God’s people it is a time trial and temptation when, in deadly array, all the powers on earth are leveled to force issues upon them. Also Spiritualism is at its height performing signs and wonders to persuade and tempt God’s people. Of this time Matthew 24:24 says “there shall arise false Christs, and false prophets, and shall shew great signs and wonders.” Only by a close, pure and deep relationship with Christ and His Spirit leading us will we, for this particular hour in history, have that assurance stated in the opening verse “I will keep thee from the hour of temptation.” For 2 Thessalonians 2:9-12 warns us that “the workings of Satan with all power and signs and lying wonders and with all deceivableness of unrighteousness in them that perish; [Why?] because they received not the love of the truth, that they might be saved. And for this cause God shall send them strong delusion, that they should believe a lie: that they all might be damned who believed not the truth, but had pleasure in unrighteousness.” To receive the keeping power of God during the “hour of temptation,” the question ever before us should be “What shall I do to inherit eternal life?”[Luke 10:25] and the answer will always return as an echo, “What is written in the law? How readest thou?”[Luke 10:26]

Purpose Of The Holy Spirit
Jesus Christ knew first, that He must die the death of a man and return to Heaven, and second, to whom the governance of His church must be turned over. His church or people were turned over for guidance to the Holy Spirit, not a man. This is shown in John 16:7 where Jesus said "It is expedient that I go away: for if I go not away, the Comforter will not come unto you; but if I depart I will send him unto you." Then, He follows up in verse 13-14 with "when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself … he will shew you things to come. He shall glorify me: for he shall receive of mine, and shall shew it unto you." [The "he" the Spirit, is in the Greek, "ekeinos" which is in the masculine, indicating again that the Holy Spirit is male.] Now as to the purpose of the Spirit being sent, He is sent for the purpose of convincing or convicting man first, of sin; second, of righteousness as needed by man; and thirdly, of judgment or the need to be ready for it. This is stated in verse 8 "when he [the Spirit] is come, he will reprove the world of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment. First, of sin, to show the need of repentance and so turn in belief to God as said in verse 9 "of sin, because they believe not on me." Secondly of righteousness, showing the need for a life style change, as said in verse 10 "of righteousness, because I go to the Father, and ye see me no more." And thirdly, judgment showing the need of man to daily prepare to meet God, as said in verse 11 "of judgment, because the prince of this world [Satan or the devil] is judged." When Christ, the Son of God, came to this world as a man, one part of His divinity as God remained in Heaven - His omnipresence [the ability to be everywhere at one time], which hampered the spreading of the Gospel worldwide, this was the necessity of the sending of the Holy Spirit, to accomplish this task.

One Sin God Will Not Forgive
In Matthew 12:31-32 it states that "All manner of sin and blasphemy shall be forgiven unto men: but the blasphemy against the Holy Ghost shall not be forgiven unto men … whosoever speaketh against the Holy Ghost, it shall not be forgiven him." What does this mean? "Blasphemy" means showing a lack of reverence or insulting God, in this case the Holy Spirit (the third person of the Godhead) and it also means claiming to have the attributes of God, such as ability to forgive sin, as said in Mark 2:7 only God can forgive sin. The Holy Spirit was sent by God to convict us of sin, this we usually refer to as our conscience. The convictions of the Holy Spirit come through reading the Bible, through His servants (that is anyone speaking a message to you in Christ's name), or by the direct workings of the Holy Spirit. However, when the message to us is disregarded or set aside and not studied out thoroughly, there comes upon us a numbing of the conscience and our spiritual perception dims, which upon a second time revealed to us becomes less discernable and darkness on the subject increases until finally it is rejected as not important. This is the working of Satan upon our conscience, to nullify God's messages or leadings. In God's eyes this is a direct rejection of light sent to us through His Spirit and is also considered blasphemy against the Holy Ghost. Hosea 4:6 warns us, "My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge; because thou hast rejected knowledge, I will also reject thee." And Paul said in 2 Timothy 2:15 "Study to shew thyself approved unto God..." So dig deeply into your studies and show yourself worthy.

Christ Our High Priest
From the time of Moses over the centuries, God's presence to His people was associated with the sanctuary. The command came to Moses "Make Me a sanctuary; that I may dwell among them." Exodus 25:8. For the devout student of the Bible precious lessons would be learned by a deeper study of the sanctuary and its services, as David said in Psalms 77:13 "Thy way, O God, is in the sanctuary." But, for Christians today Christ seen as our High Priest has lost its deep significance. As God's earthly dwelling place, the sanctuary needs to become a deeply abiding interest to God's people. The symbols in the temple pointed to a higher service, a Heavenly service, and the ritual sacrifices pointed to the true Lamb of God, as John signified of Christ in John 1:28 "Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world." This is also revealed in the gospels through the New Testament, especially the book of Hebrews written by Paul who was a deep student of Jewish traditions and customs. In Hebrews 4:15, of Jesus, Paul stated "For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin." Paul is here telling us, Christ today is our High Priest ministering in our behalf before God in the sanctuary in Heaven, and He is our mediating priest who knows what it is to be tempted in the same way as we are.

Never Take God's Name In Vain
In Exodus 20:7 God commands us, in the third Commandment, not to take His name in vain, in swearing or using His name commonly in a light careless manner as is usually heard on the street. The most common terminology today, besides cursing, is the phrase "Oh my God!" used so flippantly in conversation. By the thoughtless mention of God in common conversation, by appealing to Him in trivial ways, and frequent and thoughtless repetition of His name, we do dishonor to Him. "Thou shalt not take the name of the Lord thy God in vain," vain or vanity means iniquity, falsehood or emptiness. David said "Holy and reverend is His name" Psalm 111:19. And Solomon said in Ecclesiastes 5:2 "Be not rash with thy mouth, and let not thine heart be hasty to utter any thing before God: for God is in Heaven, and thou upon earth: therefore let thy words be few." God's majesty, purity and holiness of character, on these we need to think long and hard on before we speak. His name should only be spoken of with highest reverence, respect and in spoken in a solemn manner. Christ, in Matthew 12:36-37, gives us warning of the Day of Judgment when we will stand alone before God, "But I say unto you, That every idle word that men shall speak, they shall give account thereof in the in the day of judgment. For by thy words thou shalt be justified, and by thy words thou shalt be condemned." This command also covers perjury or swearing oaths falsely before God or man which is a serious offence demanding severe punishment. It all comes down to a lack of reverence or respect for God and His Word. May God's Spirit guide you as you study on.

The Time Was Exactly Right
In Galatians 4:4, 5 it says "When the fullness of time was come, God sent forth his Son … to redeem them that were under the law, that we might receive the adoption of sons." Exact timing is very precise with God. The promised first coming of Christ was prophetically foretold and awaited for with great anticipation as told in Isaiah 7:14 "Behold, a virgin shall conceive, and bear a son, and shall call His name Immanuel" [ God with us]. The prophecy in Micah 5:2 pointed to where He was to be born, "But thou, Bethlehem Ephratah, though thou be little among the thousands of Judah, yet out of thee shall he come forth unto me that is to be ruler in Israel; whose goings forth have been from of old, from everlasting." His birth was also told in the stars, for the wise men, the three kings of the East, knew and followed His star in seeking for His birth place, as said in Matthew 2:2 "Where is he that is born King of the Jews? For we have seen his star in the east, and are come to worship him." The exact time was also predicted with great accuracy as revealed in prophecy of future events shown in the time line prophecy of Daniel 9:24-27. There was no reason, other than pride and neglect, for the leadership of the Jews to miss this, the greatest of all events in their history, next only to his second coming. So let us move on deeper in our studies so we do not miss it.

Where AreThe Dead?
Life and death are antithetical terms. They are so understood in reading literature. They must also be understood when the Bible is read. Death is not life in any condition. It is the loss, ending or extinguishment of life, not its continuance in any form. It does not mean "separation from God", or a "loss of the divine favor", or a "state of sin and misery", but simply what it does actually mean: death, the extinction of life itself. It is exactly as stated in the Bible, when Solomon said in the Book of Ecclesiastes 9:5 "the dead know not anything." And in Psalms 146:3 is found "His breath goeth forth, he returneth to his earth; in that very day his thoughts perish," therefore with thoughts perished thereis no more communications. Also the Apostle Paul in 1 Thessalonians 4:14-17 expressed death as a sleep, waiting to be awakened by Christ's coming. If the dead go directly to heaven, what is the purpose for Christ to come? For as it is stated at Christ's future coming, "the dead in Christ rise first..." There are so many misconceptions and untruths, we need to study deeper.

The Cost Of Forgiveness
So many Christians today believe that for God to forgive sins is merely for Him to overlook our faults. And following in this train of thought they feel that the death of Christ at Calvary seemed very unnecessary. This is very shallow thinking indeed. Forgiveness is an extremely costly affair requiring, first, a thorough and contrite confession, and secondly a sacrificial offering requiring innocent blood to be shed, leading to the death and blood of Christ, the sinless, innocent Lamb Of God. Paul said in Romans 6:23 “the wages of sin is death,” but, whose death? It should be the death of the one who committed the sin, but Christ has offered Himself as our substitute to satisfy God’s lawful requirement. This lesson was vividly impressed upon the minds of Israel through the Old Testament sacrificial services in the Temple. They fully understood that the forgiveness of God could only be attained by shedding the life-blood of an innocent substitute. We need this lesson, of how costly sinning is, engraved into our minds today. Studying the Old Testament is fundamental to understand this thought, and give stability to our Christian lives. Just like Paul said in Ephesians 2:20 “build upon the foundation of the apostles [New Testament] and prophets [Old Testament], Jesus Christ Himself being the chief cornerstone.” To show how far back you need to go, it starts in Genesis 3:9 when Adam and Eve first sinned and God, to impress upon their minds the gravity of sin, clothed them with the skin of an animal. The death of an innocent animal, shedding its blood, so they could live, pointed forward to the ultimate sacrifice of Christ on the cross for all mankind, and it showed how very costly sin and forgiveness are.

Mysteries of God
What Christ said and did witnessed to all humanity the divinely powerful mysteries of God, the results of which were supernatural. These supernatural happenings showed how God's Spirit works within the body of a believer revealing the new-birth or re-creation of man, witnessing life beyond the grave in His plan of eternal salvation and of His watchful care in the affairs of man. These mysteries of divine power witnessed by Christ, and available to man, were stumbling blocks for the learned leaders of the Jews. The greatest intellect of man today still cannot fully understand these mysteries, showing just how limited human wisdom really is. God's wisdom cannot be understood here on earth, it must be acknowledged through faith in Him to perform all that He has promised. It is by faith that the mysteries of God are opened to us, as Paul says in 1 Corinthians 2:7 "we speak the wisdom of God in a mystery, even the hidden wisdom [the Spirit of Christ], which God ordained before the world unto our glory;" and also in Romans 16:25-27 he says "to him that is of power to stablish you according to my gospel, and the preaching of Jesus Christ, according to the revelation of the mystery, which was kept secret since the world began, But now is made manifest ... to all nations for the obedience of faith;" and in Ephesians 3:4-5 "Whereby, when ye read, ye may understand my knowledge in the mystery of Christ…it is now revealed unto his holy apostles and prophets by the Spirit;" and finally in Colossians 1:26 "the mystery which hath been hid from ages … now is made manifest to his saints." The mysteries which skeptics with finite minds refuse to believe because of no faith in God are revealed through the Spirit to man - only by faith - that He exists.

The Light of True Education
To those who, by faith, are simple seekers and willing to learn, God tells us in Psalms 119:130 "The entrance of thy words giveth light; it giveth understanding unto the simple." For this purpose Christ, the God-given Messenger, came to this world from Heaven as our Example and Instructor in the truths of God. As He said of Himself in John 18:37 "for this cause came I into the world, that I should bear witness unto the truth." He came to witness the truths of God to simple men who were being burdened under the yoke of superstitions, immorality, errors taught as church traditions, which simply are traditions of man superseding God's Word. He also said in John 14:6 "I am the way, the truth, and the life." Education contemplated in its highest and broadest sense can only be found centered in the Bible, which gives a well rounded education developing individuality in a person mentally, morally and physically. And God's Word is the light for man "that the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works" 2 Timothy 3:17. Before Jesus came expounding light from God's Word, God spoke to all in "a voice out of the cloud, saying, This is my beloved Son, hear him," [Luke 9:35]. We hear Him speak to us through the Bible and by His Spirit's leadings into more and more truth. This historical truth, the Bible, is the only sure way to learn what God's terms of eternal salvation are for man. We need to know these terms to graduate from earth to heaven, God's eternal destiny for man.

Seal of Righteousness
In Romans 4:11 Paul, speaking of Abraham, says “he received the sign of circumcision, a seal of the righteousness of the faith which he had.” Here is a very practical example of “justification by faith” or being just [right] in God’s eyes by faith in His promises. The works or deeds done by Abraham were the obvious natural fruits of his faith in God, but these works did not justify him in the eyes of God. It was his faith and belief in God that made him righteous. The seal or sign of circumcision was received by Abraham, not to make him believe in God, but because he already believed in Him. Today we refer to him as father Abraham because he was the one given the promised inheritance for those who believe in God. That promised inheritance is what we find in reading 2 Peter 3:13-14 “Nevertheless we, according to his promise, look for a new heavens and a new earth wherein dwelleth righteousness. Wherefore, beloved, seeing that ye look for such things, be diligent that ye may be found of him in peace, without spot, and blameless.” This faith exemplified in Abraham, justifying him to God, is perfection or being found of God “without spot and blameless.” This needs to be our aim and focus in our life’s journey if we are to be ready to meet Him at the end, but it is only achieved by our faith for God to do the transforming of our character. Do not put limits on what God can do. God spoke things into existence at creation, and He can do it to re-create in you a new heart. By unbelief in this necessary change you become as much an infidel as one who throws out creation in favor of the theory of evolution. David understood this re-creation when in Psalms 51:10 he said “Create in me a clean heart O God: and renew a right spirit within me.” This needs to be our prayer to accomplish the right end results necessary.

Sunday Holiness And Mithraism!
The Bible in Old and New Testament through the history of God’s people refers only to the seventh-day [Saturday] Sabbath as God’s Holy Day. In Hebrews chapter 4 Paul gives a full discourse on this subject with the culmination in verses 8-11 saying if Jesus would have given another day to worship he would have told us, and worship on any other day is a sign of unbelief in God. So, where does Sunday, the first day of the week enter in to Christian worship? Christians today say Sunday is worshipped upon because Christ rose on that day, but in reality Christ’s death and resurrection is symbolized in our ritual of Baptism, not a day of worship as Christ Himself indicated in the texts cited above. Sunday, at the time of Christ was the day dedicated to the sun god, and the Romans and Greeks had adopted Mithraism in 67 A.D. which gathered in all their gods in one universal religion [see Encyclopedia Britannica art. “Mithras”]. The mysteries of Mithraism were so popular that higher schools and nobility were fascinated and “the venerable day of the sun” was a popular holiday. Scholars held the Jews and Christians way of worship as “foolishness” [see 1 Corinthians 1:18-23], and, after 70 A.D. with the total destruction of Jerusalem, the Roman authorities despised anybody that came close to Judaism. Therefore, under persecution, for the early church to exist, it gradually lowered its standards adopting the heathen mysteries of Mithraism into their teachings; all for acceptance by scholars [see History of the Church Vol. I, p.67 by Dr. Mosheim and Lectures On Romanism p.203 by Dr. Cummings]. Christianity and Mithraism became so much alike that there was only a step of difference between the two. Is it any wonder that at the conversion of Emperor Constantine to Christianity with the adoption of Sunday as the day of worship that the Sabbath slipped into obscurity with the enforcement of his Sunday law in 321 A.D. A final thought, Mithraism celebrated the birth of the Sun on the 25th of December – also adopted into Christianity as Christ’s birthday. This is why Christ warned us about church tradition overstepping God’s commandments in Matthew 15:3 & 9.

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