"Having made known unto us the mystery of his will (Ephesians 1:9)." What is God's will for end times? And unto whom was it revealed? Even the word "mystery" discretely implies that these things must be revealed. The truth concerning God's will for end times was to remain an elusive mystery until the time of the end. "That in the dispensation of the fulness of times he might gather together in one all things in Christ (Ephesians 1:10)" When God causes his will to be understood, then the evidences of scripture will allow believers to have confidence that they are working together in agreement with God (John 14:4; Ephesians 1:11). “We are laborers together with God (1Corinthians 3:9).” “Wherefore be ye not unwise, but understanding what the will of the Lord is (Ephesians 5:17).” Prophets are discovering the hidden truths of prophecy, as well as the mystery of God's will. As they make these discoveries, others are joining in with them to help them promote their findings. Collectively, all of the people which are either bringing forth, or advancing the hidden truths of prophecy, are God's messengers. “We beseech you, brethren, to know them which labor among you, and are over you in the Lord, and admonish you; and esteem them very highly in love for their work’s sake (1Thessalonians 5:12-13).” “Submit yourselves to every one that helps with us, and labors (1Corinthians 16:16).” “For every creature of God is good, and nothing to be refused, if it be received with thanksgiving: For it is sanctified by the word of God and prayer (1Timothy 4:4-5).”
God's messengers will bring the answers concerning the hidden truths of prophecy unto the religious authorities, and they are to be received (Matthew 10:14; 10:41; John 13:20). “This is work of God, that you believe on him whom he hath sent (John 6:29).” Messengers are sent unto them for their good, and for the good of all God's people. “As my Father hath sent me, even so send I you (John 20:21).” But receiving God's messengers is not easy, for no one wants to be informed that their religious beliefs are mistaken, or that their teachings need to be changed. Only consider that Jesus, and all the apostles, and all of the ancient prophets, were also God's messengers: for messengers are believers, which are, and were, sent by God to declare his words. Today's leaders are facing confusion and troublous times, and they need to remember that confusion abounded when the the religious authorities of the past received the word of the Lord through the ancient prophets. Believers are to avoid making their mistakes: know that God speaks unto his people through messengers, it is his way. To minimize confusion, Paul concluded that believers ought to speak up on behalf of God's messengers. “If a man think himself to be spiritual, let him acknowledge that the things that I write unto you are commandments of the Lord (1Corinthians 14:37).”
There is no damage done when a believer receives a messenger, for listening to others cannot defile a man's inheritance: “There is nothing from without a man, that entering into him can defile him (Mark 7:15).” Believers ought to receive a messenger, then turn unto the Lord in prayer, and study to find out whether or not the information provided is supported by the evidence of scripture. The damage comes if believers reject God's messengers, and if they refuse to look into the truth of God's word, for this is rebellion against God: “As Janes and Jambres withstood Moses, so do these also resist truth… they shall proceed no further: for their folly shall be manifest unto all men (2Timothy 3:8-9).” God will send powerful delusions upon everyone that rejects knowledge, and thereby he will cause the rebellious to remain deceived until they are recompensed for their err on Judgment Day (Mark 7:9). "For this cause God will send them strong delusion, that they should believe a lie: that they might be damned who believed not the truth (2Thessalonians 2:11-12)." So be humble, and receive God's messengers. “It shall come to pass, that every soul, which will not hear that prophet, shall be destroyed from among the people (Acts 3:23)."
Another way in which believers are to receive God's messengers, is by considering and receiving new understanding from the ancient prophets. One such understanding is to come from Timothy. In the book of Philippians, Paul wrote that he trusted that Jesus would send Timothy unto believers. “I trust in the Lord Jesus to send Timotheus shortly unto you (Philippians 2:19).” Timothy was one of Paul's helpers, and he was charged with keeping, "The Charge." “That good thing which was committed unto thee keep by the Holy Ghost which dwells within us (2Timothy 1:14).” “This charge I commit unto thee, son Timothy… that thou by them might war a good warfare (1Timothy 1:18).”
The Charge is recorded in the first epistle of Timothy, and it is God's commandments of instruction for the deacons, elders, and others with authority in the church, that they might help the church prevail in truth. In essence, The Charge commands every helper of the church to stay sensitive to the Holy Spirit (1Timothy 4:13-16); and to pray, and intercede, and give thanks for their leaders (1Timothy 2:1-2). It instructs these guardians of the church to hold faith in a good conscience (Timothy 1:19), and to count their leaders worthy of all honor (1Timothy 6:1-2). These workers are to publicly correct anyone within the church that is not acting in accordance with godliness, and they are to do it without partiality (1Timothy 5:20-21; Galatians 2:14). They are to teach the people not to trust in tradition but to trust in the living God, and they are to cause them to know the importance of maintaining good works, and of studying the scriptures: so that all of God's people might know the truth, and be able to communicate it (1Timothy 6:17-19). Last of all, The Charge instructs these acting authorities to guard the church against false teachings (1Timothy 1:3). “I give thee charge in the sight of God… That thou keep this commandment without spot, unrebukeable, until the appearing of our Lord Jesus Christ (1Timothy 6:13-14).” The words, "until the appearing of our Lord Jesus Christ," indicate that The Charge meant was to live on through the generations of helpers in the churches, who are like Timothy.
After perceiving the truth about The Charge, then the second epistle of Timothy becomes guidance for the guardians of the church who are currently keeping, or who have kept, The Charge, unto the appearing of Christ. Timothy is said to be weeping, which insinuates that these believers will be crying out to God, and praying for the mistakes of religion (2Timothy 1:4-5). Evidence and proof that this book pertains to end times is heard in the words: "But is now made manifest by the appearing of our saviour Jesus Christ, who hath abolished death (2Timothy 1:10)." This verse confirms that the book of second Timothy is prophesied unto the authorities of the church at the time of Jesus' second appearing, because of its prophetic words: "Who hath abolished death." To understand the meaning of these things, it is necessary to know more about what is meant by the words. “The last enemy that shall be destroyed is death (1Corinthians 15:26)."
While Jesus walked the earth, he promoted a fresh new doctrine of God which drew large crowds, but jealousy and envy entered into the hearts of the religious dignities when they heard about his crowds. Jealousy and envy are sins which turn God's people into his adversaries, because these sins cause believers to desire the destruction of God's messengers. Jealousy and envy are responsible for forcing God's messengers to lay down their own lives in order to promote the kingdom's truths (2Timothy 4:6). The voluntary act of sacrificially laying down ones life in order to share God's truths with others, is the death which will be swallowed up in victory. Jesus Christ paid an ultimate price for his service to man, because envy, jealousy, and pride put him on the cross. His crucifixion manifests the heinousness of these sins: but, by the grace of God, Jesus' obedience also manifests a pattern of genuine love: "Lo, I come, (in the column of the book it is written of me,) to do thy will, O God (Hebrews 10:7)." "Jesus Christ gave himself for our sins, that he might deliver us from this present evil world, according to the will of God (Galatians 1:4)." Just like Jesus, today's messengers will also lay down their lives, sacrificially, in order to cause others to inherit eternal life, and to enter into the kingdom of God. But this should not to happen, because scripture's details of the past were recorded so that believers might avoid making those mistakes, and that they might unite and work together to know what God's will is: for then death is swallowed up in victory!
“Now if Timothy come, see that he may be with you without fear: for he works the work of the Lord, as I also do. Let no man therefore despise him: but conduct him forth in peace, that he may come unto me: for I look for him with the brethren (1Corinthians 16:10-11).” This verse personifies Timothy's awkward position. In second Timothy, Timothy's name now represents the helpers within the church who have gained liberty because the covenant message has freed from the rules which are currently governing salvation (John 8:36). Paul’s name represents priests which are grouped together in likemindedness with Paul, even those priests which have respect for Paul's teachings. Timothy is set at liberty, but Paul has continued to remain bound by religion's rules. Paul is encouraging Timothy to press on. "Be not ashamed of the testimony of our Lord, nor of me his prisoner: but be thou a partaker in the afflictions (2Timothy 1:8)." "Know ye that our brother Timothy is set at liberty; with whom, if he come shortly, I will see you (Hebrews 13:23).” In saying “If he come shortly, I will see you” Paul is verifying that today's priests which are bound, are, in effect, waiting to see and witness their own helpers and guardians of the church, supporting and promoting the truths of the covenant message. Additional evidence of this truth is heard in the words: "The husbandman that laboureth must be first partaker of the fruits. Consider what I say; and the Lord give thee understanding in all things (2Timothy 2:6-7)."
In the parable, Paul encourages Timothy to press on, as a messenger, and as good soldier: and he pleads with Timothy to get involved in the battle, because it is the word of God. “Endure hardness, as a good soldier of Jesus Christ (2Timothy 2:3).” “If we suffer, we shall also reign with him: if we deny him, he will also deny us (2Timothy 2:12).” “Stir up the gift of God which is in thee (2Timothy 1:6).” "No man that warreth entangles himself with the affairs of this life; that he may please him who hath chosen him to be a soldier (2Timothy 2:4).""Let every one that nameth the name of Christ depart from iniquity (2Timothy 2:19)."
This book encourages the deacons, elders and others with authority in the church, to assume the role of God's messengers. It instructs and teaches these guardians to be firm but gentle in communicating the truths of scripture unto the deceived.“Of these things put them in remembrance, charging them before the Lord that they strive not about words to no profit, but to the subverting of the hearers (2Timothy 2:14).” “The servant of the Lord must not strive; but be gentle unto all men, apt to teach, patient, in meekness instructing those that oppose themselves; if God peradventure will give them repentance to the acknowledging of the truth (2Timothy 2:24-25).”
Some concluding remarks: God has declared certain things which Jesus Christ was sent to accomplish. A few examples include, Jesus was sent to guide believers in the way of peace (Luke 1:79); and to proclaim liberty unto the captives, and to open the prison houses of those that are bound. It is also implied that Jesus Christ would proclaim the day of vengeance of our God (Isaiah 61:1-2). These acts will be finished and completed through believers which have the mind of Christ: for God's messengers are bearing answers to hidden truths of prophecy, and those answers are guiding believers in the way of peace, and they are setting people free from religious bondage, unto salvation. Through the covenant message and the voices of God's messengers, the day of the vengeance of our God has been announced. Receive the warning, and study the scriptures. "Study to show thyself approved unto God, a workman that needs not to be ashamed, rightfully dividing the word of truth (2Timothy 2:15).” “For if we sin willfully after that we have received knowledge of the truth, there remains no more sacrifice for sins (Hebrews 10:26).”
Scripture is a perfect work of God wherein each and every word was given one concise meaning, and it was perfectly placed. This is an impossible feat which could have only been accomplished by God. When believers search and investigate scripture, and find out that one true meaning for each and every perfectly placed word, then scripture interprets itself, and prophecy is understood (2Timothy 3:16; Isaiah 28:10). Studying prophecy reveals that it is God's will to overturn every religion, and to gather all believers together in one; and it is also God's will that end times be a time of refreshing for restoring and strengthening his people's confidence in him (Isaiah 28:12; Ephesians 1:9). "They shall know that I am the Lord (Ezekiel 7:27).""Repent ye therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out, when the times of refreshing shall come from the presence of the Lord (Acts 3:19)." “It is given unto you to know the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven (Matthew 13:11).” These messages are prepared for the express purpose of awakening believers, and causing them to study and confirm the hidden truths of prophecy, and to know the mystery of God's will: “Be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God (Romans 12:2).”
Tuesday, October 1, 2013
Tuesday, August 27, 2013
James and John; Sons of Thunder
"I Answered Thee in the Secret Place of Thunder (Psalm 81:7)."
During end times God will manifest his thunder, he will cause his lightenings to be witnessed, and he will refresh believers with his rain: but the fulfillment of God's word will start with his thunder. "God thunders marvelously with his voice (Job 37:5)." God's thunder resonates through the voices of the living, but it is also heard in the testimonies of his ancient prophets. James and John were called "the sons of thunder," because their epistles were purposed to accompany God's lightening (Mark 3:17). Before listening to the thunder of James and John, consider God's parable meanings of the words, 'lightening' and 'rain'. The parable word 'lightening' refers to the light of God's presence as it goes swiftly out unto his people through the teachings of priests who have humbled themselves and turned from religion's errs, to teach the truths of the covenant message. "I beheld Satan as lightning fall from heaven (Luke 10:18)." "Satan himself is transformed into an angel of light (2Corinthians 11:14)." "As the lightening, that lightens out of one part under heaven, shineth unto the other part under heaven; so shall the Son of man be in his day (Luke 17:24)." "He maketh lightnings for the rain (Psalms 135:7)." The parable word 'rain' refers to refreshing understanding that comes down from the Father, as God's hidden truths are revealed unto the hearts and minds of his elect (Deuteronomy 11:14; Isaiah 44:3; Joel 2:23; James 5:7). "My doctrine shall drop as the rain (Deuteronomy 32:2)."
The thunder of James and John is the counsel of their epistles, which was purposed for the latter days. Let's begin exploring these blessing by first looking at works of John. John's epistles were overlooked and disregarded because of his use of names, such as Gaius, Demetrius, and the elect lady. These names were intentionally introduced because they caused believers to lightly esteem the counsel which was written there, thus reserving it for end times. John left important clues for opening the understanding of all three of his epistles in an informative section which is recorded in the first epistle. This little section is of vital importance, because it correctly identifies each of the three intended recipients. For lack of a perfect way of referring to this informative section, we will call it, a salutation (1John 2:12-14). The first epistle of John was written unto newly converted believers, and he addressed them by the name of, "little children." John's second epistle is addressed to, "the elect lady and her children," but according to the salutation in the first epistle, John's second epistle was actually written unto young men, and his third epistle was written unto fathers, which is another way of saying, unto priests.
John used the names of these recipients like parables, so that when believer's correctly identified just who the epistle was counseling, their understanding of the epistle was perfected. "Little children" are believers who know the Father, but their religion had dissuaded them against knowing Jesus. "I write to you, little children, because ye have known the Father (1John 2:13)." Within the salutation, John delivered a message unto these children: “I write unto you, little children, because your sins are forgiven you for his name’s sake (1John 2:12).” These words were purposed to strengthen and encourage these believers. John boasted on the little children, insinuating that they had overcome the stumbling blocks of their religion. "Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them: because greater is he that is in you, than he that is in the world (1John 4:4)." The counsel of their epistle introduces these new converts unto meaningful things concerning Jesus. “That ye may know that ye have eternal life, and that ye may believe on the name of the Son of God (1John 5:13).” Their epistle contains instructions on how to differentiate between true believers and seducers; and it delivers strong exhortation concerning the gift of the Holy Spirit which works mightily in believers who keep Jesus' commandments, anointing them, and teaching them all things (1John 2:27).
The second epistle of John is written to "young men." This is another parable name which discretely refers to believers who have overcome the stumbling blocks of their religion, but the difference between little children and young men, is that, the young men are familiar with Jesus's doctrine. “I have written unto you, young men, because ye are strong, and the word of God abideth in you, and you have overcome the wicked one (1John 2:14).” The name "young men" compliments this group of believers, because it suggests that they already have a good sense of scriptural understanding. "Be not children in understanding, ...in understanding be men (1Corinthians 14:20)." Even writing the greeting, "unto the elect lady and her children" implies and suggests that this is counsel for the converted church (2John 1). This epistle instructs its recipients to persevere in love, and to uphold God's commandments, but the overriding reason for writing the second epistle is to warn the church against receiving believers who are not honoring Jesus' doctrine: they are transgressors, and therefore the church is not to receive them. "Whosoever transgresseth, and abideth not in the doctrine of Christ, hath not God. He that abides in the doctrine of Christ, he hath both the Father and the Son. If there come any unto you, and they bring not this doctrine, receive him not into your house (2John 9-10)."
The third epistle of John was written unto priests: “I write unto you, fathers, because ye have known him that is from the beginning (1John 2:13).” The purpose of this letter is to instruct priests to receive God's messengers. "We ought to receive such, that we might be fellow helpers to the truth (3John 8)." In this epistle, John advertised an account of a prideful leader who refused to receive John, as well as some of the other apostles of his day. He had not only disrespected God's messengers, but he had commanded his congregation not to hear them, and anyone who disregarded his commandment was cast out of his church. The reproach of this man's pride and arrogance, epitomizes the wickedness of mistreating God's messengers. It is an evil transgression, for every believer is commanded by God to receive, and to love one another. It is beneficial for unbelieving priests to consider John's counsel, along with the implied meaning of his words: "If I come, I will remember his deeds (3John 10)." "Beloved, follow not that which is evil, but that which is good. He that doeth good is of God: but he that doeth evil hath not seen God (3John 11)."
Religion has deceived God's people, and it is going to take time to convert everyone from its laws, unto the truth of God's word. The days wherein believers are adapting and converting their understandings will be a time of trouble and confusion, because righteousness and wickedness will prevail on both sides of the disagreement (Daniel 12:1). John delivered certain truths which show believers how to correctly identify godliness in others. The first truth regarding godliness, is that believers must avoid being prejudiced or deceived by their former ways, and discern with their own eyes, and see whether or not the people are behaving themselves in accordance with God's word. “If you know that he is righteous, ye know every one that doeth righteousness is born of him (1John 2:29).” Are they exhibiting a spirit of love for all believers? “God is love; he that dwelleth in love dwelleth in God, and God in him (1John 4:16).” “Whosoever hates his brother is a murderer: and you know that no murderer hath eternal life abiding in him (1John 3:15).” Another way in which believers are to identify godliness, is to see whether or not the people in question are believing and teaching that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh. “Every spirit that confesses that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is of God (1John 4:2).”
There is a verse written in the second epistle of John which requires special attention: “Whosoever transgresseth, and abides not in the doctrine of Christ, hath not God (2John 9).” Before believers can fully understand the meaning of this verse, they must perceive that in order for transgression to occur someone has to be fully informed, and afterwards if they ignore the word of God and if they break his commandments, then they are transgressing. Wherefore in order for a person to transgress the doctrine of Christ, that person must first know the doctrine of Christ (1John 3:4). So, to paraphrase the afore mentioned verse, believers who know Jesus' doctrine, and who knowingly break his commandments, do not have the Holy Spirit. This truth is evidenced in words which Jesus spoke wherein he magnified the importance of keeping his commandments: "He that hath my commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth me: and he that loveth me shall be loved by my Father, and I will love him... We will come unto him, and make our abode with him (John 14:21, 14:23)." If Christians are breaking and ignoring God's commandments, then they are spiritually dead. "There is a sin unto death (1John 5:16)."
Overcoming, and overturning religion is achieved by correctly assessing the rolls of both the Father, and the Son. There are therefore certain truths which Islam and Judaism must accept; and there is a certain misunderstanding that Christianity must relinquish. “Hereby we know that he abides in us, by the Spirit which he hath given us (1John 3:24).” Islam and Judaism must accept and promote God's truths concerning Jesus, as well as his truths concerning the Holy Spirit, who is a witness. Every person within these faiths must be informed that God's people who keep his commandments through Jesus Christ, receive eternal life while they yet walk the earth; for, according to the word of God, everyone who is quickened by his Holy Spirit is already experiencing eternal life (1John 4:13). The Holy Spirit is a rejoicing witnesses which testifies truth, and confirms the souls of God's elect (1John 2:27). “It is the Spirit that beareth witness, because the Spirit is truth (1John 5:6).”
John delivered a very strong message concerning the Holy Spirit: “He that believeth on the Son of God hath the witness in himself: he that believeth not God hath made him a liar; because he believeth not the record that God gave of his Son (1John 5:10).” This testimony is for little children so that they might know that there is a wondrous gift which is given exclusively unto persons who believe on Jesus, and who trust that his doctrine is of God. “That all men should honor the Son, even as they honor the Father (John 5:23).” “He that hath the Son hath life; and he that hath not the Son of God hath not life (1John 5:12).” This does not mean that believers of Jewish and Islamic faiths have no part in eternal life, but it does mean that apart from Jesus' doctrine believers of these faiths did not enter into eternal life until after they were physically dead. Anyone who objects to this truth needs to hear Jesus' response to the rich young ruler, when he asked Jesus, saying, "What good thing shall I do, that I may have eternal life (Matthew 19:16)?" Jesus answered him saying that he should obey God's commandments, period!! After receiving that answer, the ruler responded saying that he had kept God's commandments, and then he pressed Jesus further, saying, "What lack I yet?" What followed was a teaching that brings believers unto perfection: Jesus, in essence, suggested that this man should lay down his life and follow him. If this man had complied with Jesus' request, then he would have received Holy Spirit while he yet walked the earth. Nevertheless, this rich young ruler who had obeyed God's commandments, did receive his inheritance after his death, by the promise of God (Matthew 19:17-21).
It will be necessary for believers of the Christian faith to acknowledge their religious mistakes too. They will need to broadcast the truth concerning the salvation of their Jewish and Muslim brothers and sisters, and they will be required to acknowledge their new covenant. They will also need to accept and promote the truth that Jesus is not God, but he is the Son of God. Evidence of this truth is eluded to in the words: “Who is he that overcometh the world, but he that believes Jesus is the Son of God (1John 5:5).” Jesus published evidence that he was not God when he confessed and said, “I ascend unto my Father, and your Father; and to my God, and your God (John 20:17).” If Jesus' words are not enough to convince Christians that he is not God, then ponder another testimony, “When all things shall be subdued unto him, then shall the Son also himself, be subject unto him that put all things under him, that God may be all in all (1Corinthians 15:28).” Don't let Jesus' words "I and the Father are one" be a stumbling block against you. Jesus is not God, just as I am not my husband. Every testimony wherein Jesus made himself equal with God, Jesus was confirming and concluding that all of his teachings, and all his actions, were in absolute agreement with his Father, and that the Spirit of God was within him.
“When he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is (1John 3:2).” Faithful believers are like Jesus in many ways. One of those ways is that we are called the sons of God. Find evidence of this in the verses: "Jesus is the son of God (1John 4:15)." "As many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God (John 1:12)." A second way in which believers are like Jesus, is that they are both called light. "I am the light of the world (John 8:12)," "Ye are the light of the world (Matthew 5:14)." Light has everything to do with making the Father known unto the world. “Whatsoever doth make manifest is light (Ephesians 5:13).” One final way in which believers are like Jesus, is that both are love, for when believers preform acts of compassion and works of love for the kingdom, then they too are showing God's love unto the world. “As he is, so are we in this world (1John 4:17).”
Jesus referred himself as a lamb, and as a door, and as a good shepherd. Each of these names create an awareness of the presence of God's Holy Spirit within other believers. Jesus is the lamb through followers that put their blind trust in him, and rely upon him for their salvation (John 1:29; Romans 4:5). Jesus is the good shepherd through his followers who give themselves unto the teaching ministry (John 10:11). Jesus is the door through prophets and messengers who lay down their lives in order to perfect our understanding, and to broadcast the way of salvation unto the world (John 10:9). During end times, the world needs more doors. “To this end was I born, and for this cause came I into the world, that I should bear witness unto the truth (John 18:37).” “Ye shall bear witness, because ye have been with me from the beginning (John 15:27).”
Now let's look at the thunder of the prophet James. His thunder is called, The law of liberty. “So speak ye, and so do, as they that shall be judged by the law of liberty (James 2:12).” The law of liberty has everything to do with justification, and justification is important because it is through justification that believers will escape God's judgments (Zephaniah 2:3; Revelation 21:7-8). “It is God that justifieth (Romans 8:33).” Justification is different from salvation, in that justification requires a believer to actively participate in promoting God's kingdom message: it is not about preforming good deeds. "By deeds of the law there shall no flesh be justified in his sight (Romans 3:20)." See how that verse seemingly disagrees with the rest of James' message, thus confirming that it is only the acts which are purposed to help God forward his end time message, that count towards justification. "Not the hearers of the law are just before God, but the doers of the law shall be justified (Romans 2:13)."
James encouraged believers to do works and speak truths which insured their justification. “Be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves (James 1:22).” The principal logic of the law of liberty is that if a believer truly believes God, if they honestly hope for his will to be done, then there ought to be some sort of verifiable evidence that their faith and hope exists, either by their conversation, or by their actions. “Faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone (James 2:17).” “You see then how that by works a man is justified, and not by faith only (James 2:24).”
There is a certain verse of scripture which clearly testifies that believers who have obtained the Holy Spirit through Jesus Christ, have been washed, sanctified, and justified in the name of Jesus (1Corinthians 6:11). This testimony needs clarification: for this appointment is a predicted justification because of the anointing. As in the case of every believer, the absolute certainty of whether or not Jesus' followers will escape the pestilence, is contingent upon their forthcoming words, as well as their actions. “By thy words thou shalt be justified, and by thy words thou shalt be condemned (Matthew 12:37).” “Every idle word that men shall speak, they shall give account thereof in the day of judgment (Matthew 12:36).”
Within his epistle James put forth a riddle: Can a fountain yield both fresh water and bitter (James 3:11)? This riddle has everything to do with the church’s transformation process. "Can a fig tree, my brethren, bear olive berries? either a vine, figs? So can no fountain yield both salt water and fresh (James 3:12)." To fully understand this riddle, believers must first interpret the meanings of its parable words. The parable word "vine" pertains to believers who are in Christ, but they are either ignorant of, or unmoved by the covenant message. The parable word "fig" pertains to congregations whose leaders are promoting some of the truths of the covenant message, however the controversial parts of the message are being withheld from the congregation. When leaders promote all of God's message, a final transformation will occur. "I am like a green olive tree in the house of God (Psalm 52:8)." The answer to this riddle is that every newly informed believing leader must press onward. When we cast out religion's falsehoods and teach God's truths, then our congregation will be anointed by the holy Spirit, for fresh water is necessary for producing olive berries (Ezekiel 47:9; Revelation 22:1). "Salt is good: but if salt have lost His savor... men cast it out (Luke 14:34-35)."
You can see that the law of liberty is important truth for end times. “Whoso looketh into the perfect law of liberty, and continueth therein, he being not a forgetful hearer, but a doer of the work, this man is blessed in his deed (James 1:25).” Note the promise of blessings, but more importantly, see how the word "continueth" confirms yet again that the promised blessing are contingent upon not turning back (Matthew 24:17-18). “No man, having put his hand to the plough, and looking back, is fit for the kingdom of God (Luke 9:62).” Therefore, trust God, rely upon his word, and press on. “I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus. Let us therefore, as many as be perfect, be thus minded (Philippians 3: 14-15).”
“Behold, the hire of the laborers who have reaped down your fields, which is of you kept back by fraud, crieth: and the cries of them which have reaped are entered into the ears of the Lord of sabaoth (see James 5:4).” Believers who are working to destroy religion and are helping to promote the covenant message are God's reapers, and God hears their cries. He knows the problems that they suffer because of prideful authorities. “In due season we shall reap, if we faint not (Galatians 6:9).” Reaping is a form of justification. “Thrust in thy sickle, and reap: for the time is come for thee to reap (Revelation 14:15).” Everyone who joins in the battle and works to spread news of the kingdom message, has God's promise of reward. “He that reaps receiveth wages, and gathered fruit unto life eternal: that both he that soweth and he that reapeth may rejoice together (John 4:36).”
Believe God, and fear not. “Abraham believed God, and it was imputed unto him for righteousness: and he was called the friend of God (James 2:23).” If we believe God and trust in his word, then his instructions will be completed, and perfected, and taught, and all believers will learn how to be justified, so that they too can avoid God's wrath. "They that understand among the people shall instruct many (Daniel 11:33)."
Sunday, July 14, 2013
Paul and the Gospel of Reconciliation
One day believing priests will stand before their congregations and they will confess their religious misunderstandings, and when they do, God's people will turn from religion's mistakes, and they will stretch out their hands unto the Lord their God. When believers turn from the errs of religion to serve the Lord in truth, it is called reconciliation. The apostle Paul was appointed by God to facilitate, "the gospel of reconciliation" (Acts 13:2; 1Timothy 1:11). The intent of this gospel is to impress upon believers that it is God's will for them to stand up, by faith, and boldly confess the covenant message before that day when God arises to shake the earth, and to reconcile all things unto himself (2Corinthians 5:18-19). “Ye are manifestly declared to be the epistle of Christ ministered by us (2Corinthians 3:3).”
Paul purposely hid counsel for reconciliation within his letters. This concealed work was intended to be a blessing which was kept in store for end times (2Corinthians 4:3). Paul made reference to these concealed mysteries in clues which not only caused the works to be discovered, but which also supply evidence that his hidden works exist. In one of these references, Paul wrote that he administered a service which he called, An experiment of ministration: “The administration of this service not only supplies the want of the saints, but is abundant also by many thanksgivings unto God; While by the experiment of this ministration they glorify God for your professed subjection unto the gospel of Christ, and for your liberal distribution unto them, and unto all men (2Corinthians 9:12-13).” In the overall analysis of the experiment, Paul concluded that one day believer's who accepted the hidden truths of the gospel of reconciliation, would be the forerunners of the faith that would successfully yield the much anticipated fruits of rejoicing from the elect.
Paul communicated much of the gospel's counsel through his own life experiences, but he also crafted and wrote several parables around the names of some fellow-helpers, and a few churches. Proof that these parables exist is found in the words: “Let a man so account of us, as of ministers of Christ, and stewards of the mysteries of God… These things, brethren, I have in a figure transferred to myself and to Apollos for your sakes (1Corinthians 4:1; 4:6).” These parables were written for God's glory, and for the purpose of reconciliation. Let's begin unveiling these blessings by studying the name, Apollos, attempting to discover what truths Paul has hidden around that name.
During the days wherein Paul was writing his gospel: “A certain Jew named Apollos… mighty in scriptures, came to Ephesus (Acts 18:24).” A couple of Paul's friends, Aquila and Priscilla, overheard Apollos instructing people in the way of the Lord. They perceived that his teachings were good, but that his knowledge was incomplete: Apollos didn’t know Jesus Christ (Acts 18:25). Aquila and Priscilla took him aside, and they shared the knowledge of Jesus with him (Acts 18:26). Apollos grasped the truth of their message, and he became a strong advocate for Jesus. “He mightily convinced the Jews, publicly, showing by the scriptures that Jesus was Christ (Acts 18:28).”
Paul came across a few other disciples who were like Apollos, in that they hadn’t yet learned of Jesus. When Paul gave these disciples knowledge of Jesus, they refreshed him. “When Paul had laid his hands upon them, the Holy Ghost came on them; and they spake with tongues, and prophesied (Acts 19:6).” This is an understanding which was kept hidden in the Apollos parable. When perfecting truth is given unto believers who have an incomplete understanding of Jesus, then like Apollos, they will refresh and bless everyone around them with their rejoicings in the truth and in the power of the Holy Ghost. “I have planted, Apollos watered; but God gave the increase (1Corinthians 3:6).” Understanding this part of the Apollos mystery is relevant to the verse: “By an equality, that now at this time your abundance may be a supply for their want, that their abundance also may be a supply for your want (2Corinthians 8:14).”
In the gospel of reconciliation, Paul brought Titus' name into the parable concerning Apollos. “Whether any do inquire of Titus, he is my partner and fellow-helper concerning you (2Corinthians 8:23).” Titus was a Greek man, who came to know Christ through Paul (Galatians 2:3; Titus 1:4). Paul left him in Crete to teach Cretians the acknowledgment of truth, for the Cretians had a reputation for being disagreeable (Titus 1:5; 1:12). In the experimental ministry, Paul incorporated into the parable not only Titus' name, but also the situation which he left him in. Paul depicted transferring the unlearned figure of Apollos into the capable hands of a reliable teacher, saying to Titus, “Bring Zenas the lawyer and Apollos on their journey diligently, that nothing be wanting to them (Titus 3:13).”
“As touching our brother Apollos, I greatly desired him to come unto you with his brethren: but his will was not at all to come at this time; but he will come when he shall have convenient time (1Corinthians 16:12).” If you put all of Paul's comments concerning Apollos together, then Apollos' name represents believers who have not yet known Jesus as they aught, and even with good reliable teachers, such as Titus, it is going to take some time to persuade and convince these believers to convert their understandings. In the day of Salvation, when God's unmistakable signs are witnessed, the Holy Spirit will be poured upon this group of believers, and they will become powerful witnesses that refresh the souls of the weary.
Paul also recorded and used his own life experiences and his tribulations as a pattern to show believers what suffering for the kingdom should look like. "That in me first Jesus Christ might show forth all long suffering, for a pattern to them which should hereafter believe on him to life everlasting (1Timothy 1:16)." “I desire that you faint not at my tribulations (Ephesians 3:13).” “No man should be moved by these afflictions: for yourselves know that we are appointed thereunto (1Thessalonians 3:3).” “We must through much tribulation enter into the kingdom of God (Acts 14:22).” “All that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution (2Timothy 3:12).” Suffering for the kingdom isn’t predominately physical suffering, most often it means suffering the misgivings of others because of their misunderstandings.
Paul indeed suffered for the cause of Christ, but he also acknowledged that blessings of the Holy Spirit rejoiced within him. The Holy Spirit worked mightily in Paul, teaching him those things which were necessary for his ministry. “As the sufferings of Christ abound in us, so our consolation also abounded by Christ (2Corinthians 1:5).” Where there is persecution for the kingdom, there is corresponding consolation. The greater Paul suffered, the more abundantly he rejoiced in the Holy Spirit. That same corresponding power of the Holy Spirit works in believers who suffer for the kingdom today: “Knowing, that as ye are partakers of the sufferings, so shall ye be also of the consolation (2Corinthians 1:7).” Publishing the covenant message will be offensive to believers that are trusting in religious doctrines, therefore God's messengers shall suffer reproach. "Fear none of those things which thou shalt suffer (Revelation 2:10)." "For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight in glory (2Corinthians 4:17)."
Paul also hid end time understanding in a parable which he built around his journey to Rome. Each city that was named in Paul's journey provides beneficial information concerning the journey towards "common salvation" (Jude 3). “Paul purposed in the spirit, when he had passed through Macedonia and Achaia, to go to Jerusalem, saying, After I have been there, I must also see Rome (Acts 19:21).” The progressive order to common salvation is: Macedonia, then Achaia, and then onto Jerusalem, and ending in Rome. Like a road map, this tour is leading believers to common salvation, and it begins in Macedonia. “I will come unto you, when I pass through Macedonia: for I do pass through Macedonia (1Corinthians 16:5).”
“When we were come into Macedonia, our flesh had no rest, but we were troubled on every side; without were fightings, within were fears. Nevertheless God, that comforts those that are cast down, comforted us by the coming of Titus (2Corinthians 7:5-6).” Before coming to Macedonia, Paul, and those who were with him, wrestled with fears and uncertainty. “I fear, lest, when I come, I shall not find you such as I would (2Corinthians 12:20).” Paul's fears were that of displeasing God, and of laboring in vain (Philippians 2:16). Titus refreshed Paul. Titus was “first bishop of the church of the Cretians, from Nicopolis of Macedonia (Titus s).” Using Paul’s teachings as a guide for his congregation, Titus had successfully taught the Cretians about Christ. This church, which had formerly been famous for being disagreeable, had been converted, and Paul rejoiced at their success (2Corinthians 7:7).
The Macedonian church was selected as Paul's prototype for the parable because of their success at conversion. This church had overcome a great trial of affliction, and now they were experiencing evidence of God's favor by the riches of their increase. How did they do it? First and foremost, the congregation had prayed and given themselves to the Lord. Then they obediently gave themselves to Paul and Titus by the will of the Lord, and they continued to pray for their leaders. Whereas this church had prayed and trusted the Lord for answers, God gave them guidance in the form of rejoicings in the Holy Spirit. When Paul returned unto Macedonia, he found the church ready to assist his ministry in any way they could (2Corinthians 7:15; 8:1-5; 9:14).
“We desired Titus, that as he had begun, so he would also finish in you the same grace also (2Corinthians 8:6).” Paul hoped that revealing Titus' story would encourage believers everywhere not to fear new truths, but to pray for guidance and do God's will, just as Titus and his church had done (Titus 1:1). In the journey towards common salvation, the Macedonian church represents planting the seeds of new understanding, and then waiting patiently to witness the fruits (1Corinthians 9:7). Paul had gone back to Macedonia to witness the fruits. “The husbandman that laboreth must be first partaker of the fruits (2Timothy 2:6).”
Achaia was the next scheduled stop on Paul's journey. The people of Achaia were in Christ by Paul’s apostleship, and they were waiting on Paul's return (1Corinthians 9:2). They were, in fact, waiting for answers concerning the effectiveness of Paul's new gospel. In the mean time, those who were in Christ by Paul's gospel, were provoking others to godliness by their words. "Your zeal hath provoked very many (2Corinthians 9:2)." In the parable of common salvation, Achaia's name represents believing priests which already have some confidence in the covenant message, and they have gone ahead and prepared their congregations, however they wrestle with fears and uncertainties, therefore they are waiting for undeniable evidence and for the approval of the authorities before preaching the controversial parts of the message unto their congregations (2Corinthians 4:1). "Achaia was ready a year ago (2Corinthians 9:2)."
In Achaia, Paul prearranged a hypothetical meeting to take place, for our benefit. Titus is with him, and together they brought forth a new convert: someone “chosen of the churches to travel with us with this grace, which is administered by us to the glory of the same Lord, and the declaration of your ready mind (2Corinthians 8:19).” The testimonies of Titus and this new convert are evidence and proof that Paul's gospel is the truth, and that it is of God (Acts 15:25-27). Paul prearranged this hypothetical meeting to take place in order to encourage the elect to deliver the covenant message: “Herein I give my advice: for this is expedient for you, who have begun before, not only to do, but also to be forward a year ago. Now therefore perform the doing of it; that as there was a readiness to will, so there may be a performance also out of that which you have. For if there be first a willing mind, it is accepted according to that a man hath, and not according to that he hath not (2Corinthians 8:10-12).” In essence, Paul is strengthening today's believing priests, saying: You have prepared yourselves and your congregations, because the Spirit of the living Lord is within you and he has caused you to know that the covenant message is the truth; therefore go ahead and release the message unto the people, for it is more accepted of God that you have a willing mind, then that you have all the answers.
“I desired Titus, and with him I sent a brother. Did Titus make a gain of you? Walked we not in the same spirit? Walked we not in the same steps? (2Corinthians 12:18).” In saying “I desired Titus” Paul is urging today's believers to receive to Titus' testimony, for Titus came from a converted church, with a witness. Paul suggested that these two witnesses came without selfish motives. Their reasons for journeying to Achaia, as well as for attending this hypothetical meeting, are the same reasons that Paul had for being in ministry (1Timothy 2:6). Everyone of them, were, and are, hoping to defeat and destroy the lies and errs of religion. When today's witnesses come forth with evidences and with news concerning the effectiveness of the covenant message, they too will have the same spirit and the same objective that Paul and these two witnesses had: for their desire will be to do God's will, and their hope will be to defeat religion's errs. “Repent ye therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out, when the times of refreshing shall come from the presence of the Lord (Acts 3:19).”
“Now, behold, I go bound in spirit unto Jerusalem, not knowing the things that shall befall me there (Acts 20:22).” Paul’s next destination, was Jerusalem. He was determined to bring news of the gospel's success unto the awaiting religious authorities, regardless of his own personal safety (Galatians 2:2; 2:10). “I go unto Jerusalem to minister unto the saints (Romans 15:25).” When Paul arrived, “He declared particularly what things God had wrought among the Gentiles by his ministry. And when they heard it, they glorified the Lord (Acts 21:19-20).” Jerusalem, in the parable journey to common salvation, represents bringing our gifts of understanding, and our evidences of the success of the covenant message, unto the awaiting religious authorities, regardless of fears, or personal costs.
Rome finds its interpretation in the old testament. Paul was a Roman. The old testament affirms that at the end of time, fears of the oppressing sword will cause believers unto flee back to their own lands (Jeremiah 50:16; 51:9). In the journey towards common salvation, Rome represents priests returning to the places of their own assemblies, to testify the secrets of the covenant message before their own congregations, after evidence was delivered to the religious authorities. “As thou has testified of me in Jerusalem, so must thou bear witness also at Rome (Acts 23:11).” Paul wrote the book of Second Timothy, from Rome (2Timothy 1:17). Therefore when he penned the words, “I am now ready to be offered (2Timothy 4:6),” he was implying that Rome is about priests offering themselves before the congregation. Paul's testimony in Rome was a necessary part of the gospel's journey, because it was a pattern for the edification of today's priests. Paul's testimony there demonstrated unto today's believing priests that they will be releasing the truth of God's message before their own congregations (Ezekiel 12:16; 39:28). “I will be sanctified in you before the heathen (Ezekiel 20:41).”
Even Paul’s imprisonment provided understanding. Paul was given liberty, demonstrating that in Christ there is liberty (Acts 24:23; 2Corinthians 3:17). Yet Paul was kept bound, allowing that even Christianity is held in religious bondage. “Jerusalem which now is, and is in bondage with her children (Galatians 4:25).” Religion stands upon scripture verses which are being regarded as unchangeable laws (Galatians 3:11). Yet, God is not bound by their presumed technicalities (2Timothy 2:9). “When that which is perfect is come, then that which is in part shall be done away (1Corinthians 13:10).” Religion will change her ways (Hebrews 8:13) when she grasps the truth that Jesus Christ was a perfect lamb that was put to death, because his death was God's sacrifice that satisfied and fulfilled his promise to establish our covenants (Romans 15:8; 1Timothy 2:6). Salvation is, and has always been, granted unto faithful believers who have kept covenant, and that is the promise of God. “If they which are of the law be heirs, faith is made void, and the promise made of none effect (Romans 4:14).”
For a good concluding message, consider the Greek word “phaneroo.” This word was translated into the words: appear, manifest, declared, and showed. The definition of this word is: to render apparent. This word was translated 'appear' in the verse, “When Christ, who is our life, shall appear, then shall ye also appear with him in glory (Colossians 3:4).” Choosing this particular word to be used in this particular verse, was no accident. The placement of this word is evidence that Christ's appearing will be an inward manifestation (Luke 17:21). Right along with this thought, consider a verse wherein Paul said that he and his helpers would be raised up together with us on that day: “Knowing that he which raised up the Lord Jesus shall raise up us also by Jesus, and shall present us with you (2Corinthians 4:14).” Whereas the hidden mysteries of the gospel of reconciliation have been discovered, and the secret things which Paul and his helpers did our behalf have become apparent: The relevance of Paul's ministry has been magnified, and those hidden works which they secured in the gospel of reconciliation, will strengthen today's believers. “God hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus (Ephesians 2:6).” The love that Paul and his helpers had for the Lord, and for his people, and the works which they did because of their love, are manifesting in our minds, and in our hearts.
Scripture names certain things which will be manifested during end times, for instance: Paul’s gospel will manifest God’s word (Titus 1:3); Christ will be manifested to destroy the works of the devil (1John 3:8); the folly of people who resist the truth, will manifest (2Timothy 3:8-9); all the hidden things of scripture will manifest (Mark 4:22); and God’s will, and his judgments against those who refuse instruction, will also be manifested (2Corinthians 2:14; Romans 1:18-19; Revelations 15:4). It is becoming apparent through the covenant messages, that all of the things which are prophesied to manifest, will manifest unto the hearts and minds of God's elect. “Unto them that look for him shall he appear the second time without sin unto salvation (Hebrews 9:28).”
Jesus Christ went unto the cross and destroyed religion's curse (Galatians 3:13), and he secured our inheritance by the promise of God (Galatians 3:18). Don’t be afraid to cast out religion's doctrines: for God's promises are better (Isaiah 30:22). Promises which testify that believers are predestinated to receive an eternal inheritance through Jesus Christ (Ephesians 1:11); promises which verify that God will not hold any of our unintentional religious mistakes against us (2Corinthians 5:19); and promises which confirm that God has something better planned for his people (2Corinthians 3:10-11). When we cast out the dictates of religion, God will be our God (2Corinthians 6:17-18). "Now is come salvation, and strength, and the kingdom of our God, and the power of his Christ: for the accuser of the brethren is cast down (Revelation 12:10)."
“Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God (2Corinthians 7:1).” Flee unto God for refuge, and lay hold of the hope which is set before us (Hebrews 6:18). “Come out of her, my people, that ye be not partakers of her sins, and that ye receive not her plagues (Revelations 18:4).”
Paul purposely hid counsel for reconciliation within his letters. This concealed work was intended to be a blessing which was kept in store for end times (2Corinthians 4:3). Paul made reference to these concealed mysteries in clues which not only caused the works to be discovered, but which also supply evidence that his hidden works exist. In one of these references, Paul wrote that he administered a service which he called, An experiment of ministration: “The administration of this service not only supplies the want of the saints, but is abundant also by many thanksgivings unto God; While by the experiment of this ministration they glorify God for your professed subjection unto the gospel of Christ, and for your liberal distribution unto them, and unto all men (2Corinthians 9:12-13).” In the overall analysis of the experiment, Paul concluded that one day believer's who accepted the hidden truths of the gospel of reconciliation, would be the forerunners of the faith that would successfully yield the much anticipated fruits of rejoicing from the elect.
Paul communicated much of the gospel's counsel through his own life experiences, but he also crafted and wrote several parables around the names of some fellow-helpers, and a few churches. Proof that these parables exist is found in the words: “Let a man so account of us, as of ministers of Christ, and stewards of the mysteries of God… These things, brethren, I have in a figure transferred to myself and to Apollos for your sakes (1Corinthians 4:1; 4:6).” These parables were written for God's glory, and for the purpose of reconciliation. Let's begin unveiling these blessings by studying the name, Apollos, attempting to discover what truths Paul has hidden around that name.
During the days wherein Paul was writing his gospel: “A certain Jew named Apollos… mighty in scriptures, came to Ephesus (Acts 18:24).” A couple of Paul's friends, Aquila and Priscilla, overheard Apollos instructing people in the way of the Lord. They perceived that his teachings were good, but that his knowledge was incomplete: Apollos didn’t know Jesus Christ (Acts 18:25). Aquila and Priscilla took him aside, and they shared the knowledge of Jesus with him (Acts 18:26). Apollos grasped the truth of their message, and he became a strong advocate for Jesus. “He mightily convinced the Jews, publicly, showing by the scriptures that Jesus was Christ (Acts 18:28).”
Paul came across a few other disciples who were like Apollos, in that they hadn’t yet learned of Jesus. When Paul gave these disciples knowledge of Jesus, they refreshed him. “When Paul had laid his hands upon them, the Holy Ghost came on them; and they spake with tongues, and prophesied (Acts 19:6).” This is an understanding which was kept hidden in the Apollos parable. When perfecting truth is given unto believers who have an incomplete understanding of Jesus, then like Apollos, they will refresh and bless everyone around them with their rejoicings in the truth and in the power of the Holy Ghost. “I have planted, Apollos watered; but God gave the increase (1Corinthians 3:6).” Understanding this part of the Apollos mystery is relevant to the verse: “By an equality, that now at this time your abundance may be a supply for their want, that their abundance also may be a supply for your want (2Corinthians 8:14).”
In the gospel of reconciliation, Paul brought Titus' name into the parable concerning Apollos. “Whether any do inquire of Titus, he is my partner and fellow-helper concerning you (2Corinthians 8:23).” Titus was a Greek man, who came to know Christ through Paul (Galatians 2:3; Titus 1:4). Paul left him in Crete to teach Cretians the acknowledgment of truth, for the Cretians had a reputation for being disagreeable (Titus 1:5; 1:12). In the experimental ministry, Paul incorporated into the parable not only Titus' name, but also the situation which he left him in. Paul depicted transferring the unlearned figure of Apollos into the capable hands of a reliable teacher, saying to Titus, “Bring Zenas the lawyer and Apollos on their journey diligently, that nothing be wanting to them (Titus 3:13).”
“As touching our brother Apollos, I greatly desired him to come unto you with his brethren: but his will was not at all to come at this time; but he will come when he shall have convenient time (1Corinthians 16:12).” If you put all of Paul's comments concerning Apollos together, then Apollos' name represents believers who have not yet known Jesus as they aught, and even with good reliable teachers, such as Titus, it is going to take some time to persuade and convince these believers to convert their understandings. In the day of Salvation, when God's unmistakable signs are witnessed, the Holy Spirit will be poured upon this group of believers, and they will become powerful witnesses that refresh the souls of the weary.
Paul also recorded and used his own life experiences and his tribulations as a pattern to show believers what suffering for the kingdom should look like. "That in me first Jesus Christ might show forth all long suffering, for a pattern to them which should hereafter believe on him to life everlasting (1Timothy 1:16)." “I desire that you faint not at my tribulations (Ephesians 3:13).” “No man should be moved by these afflictions: for yourselves know that we are appointed thereunto (1Thessalonians 3:3).” “We must through much tribulation enter into the kingdom of God (Acts 14:22).” “All that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution (2Timothy 3:12).” Suffering for the kingdom isn’t predominately physical suffering, most often it means suffering the misgivings of others because of their misunderstandings.
Paul indeed suffered for the cause of Christ, but he also acknowledged that blessings of the Holy Spirit rejoiced within him. The Holy Spirit worked mightily in Paul, teaching him those things which were necessary for his ministry. “As the sufferings of Christ abound in us, so our consolation also abounded by Christ (2Corinthians 1:5).” Where there is persecution for the kingdom, there is corresponding consolation. The greater Paul suffered, the more abundantly he rejoiced in the Holy Spirit. That same corresponding power of the Holy Spirit works in believers who suffer for the kingdom today: “Knowing, that as ye are partakers of the sufferings, so shall ye be also of the consolation (2Corinthians 1:7).” Publishing the covenant message will be offensive to believers that are trusting in religious doctrines, therefore God's messengers shall suffer reproach. "Fear none of those things which thou shalt suffer (Revelation 2:10)." "For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight in glory (2Corinthians 4:17)."
Paul also hid end time understanding in a parable which he built around his journey to Rome. Each city that was named in Paul's journey provides beneficial information concerning the journey towards "common salvation" (Jude 3). “Paul purposed in the spirit, when he had passed through Macedonia and Achaia, to go to Jerusalem, saying, After I have been there, I must also see Rome (Acts 19:21).” The progressive order to common salvation is: Macedonia, then Achaia, and then onto Jerusalem, and ending in Rome. Like a road map, this tour is leading believers to common salvation, and it begins in Macedonia. “I will come unto you, when I pass through Macedonia: for I do pass through Macedonia (1Corinthians 16:5).”
“When we were come into Macedonia, our flesh had no rest, but we were troubled on every side; without were fightings, within were fears. Nevertheless God, that comforts those that are cast down, comforted us by the coming of Titus (2Corinthians 7:5-6).” Before coming to Macedonia, Paul, and those who were with him, wrestled with fears and uncertainty. “I fear, lest, when I come, I shall not find you such as I would (2Corinthians 12:20).” Paul's fears were that of displeasing God, and of laboring in vain (Philippians 2:16). Titus refreshed Paul. Titus was “first bishop of the church of the Cretians, from Nicopolis of Macedonia (Titus s).” Using Paul’s teachings as a guide for his congregation, Titus had successfully taught the Cretians about Christ. This church, which had formerly been famous for being disagreeable, had been converted, and Paul rejoiced at their success (2Corinthians 7:7).
The Macedonian church was selected as Paul's prototype for the parable because of their success at conversion. This church had overcome a great trial of affliction, and now they were experiencing evidence of God's favor by the riches of their increase. How did they do it? First and foremost, the congregation had prayed and given themselves to the Lord. Then they obediently gave themselves to Paul and Titus by the will of the Lord, and they continued to pray for their leaders. Whereas this church had prayed and trusted the Lord for answers, God gave them guidance in the form of rejoicings in the Holy Spirit. When Paul returned unto Macedonia, he found the church ready to assist his ministry in any way they could (2Corinthians 7:15; 8:1-5; 9:14).
“We desired Titus, that as he had begun, so he would also finish in you the same grace also (2Corinthians 8:6).” Paul hoped that revealing Titus' story would encourage believers everywhere not to fear new truths, but to pray for guidance and do God's will, just as Titus and his church had done (Titus 1:1). In the journey towards common salvation, the Macedonian church represents planting the seeds of new understanding, and then waiting patiently to witness the fruits (1Corinthians 9:7). Paul had gone back to Macedonia to witness the fruits. “The husbandman that laboreth must be first partaker of the fruits (2Timothy 2:6).”
Achaia was the next scheduled stop on Paul's journey. The people of Achaia were in Christ by Paul’s apostleship, and they were waiting on Paul's return (1Corinthians 9:2). They were, in fact, waiting for answers concerning the effectiveness of Paul's new gospel. In the mean time, those who were in Christ by Paul's gospel, were provoking others to godliness by their words. "Your zeal hath provoked very many (2Corinthians 9:2)." In the parable of common salvation, Achaia's name represents believing priests which already have some confidence in the covenant message, and they have gone ahead and prepared their congregations, however they wrestle with fears and uncertainties, therefore they are waiting for undeniable evidence and for the approval of the authorities before preaching the controversial parts of the message unto their congregations (2Corinthians 4:1). "Achaia was ready a year ago (2Corinthians 9:2)."
In Achaia, Paul prearranged a hypothetical meeting to take place, for our benefit. Titus is with him, and together they brought forth a new convert: someone “chosen of the churches to travel with us with this grace, which is administered by us to the glory of the same Lord, and the declaration of your ready mind (2Corinthians 8:19).” The testimonies of Titus and this new convert are evidence and proof that Paul's gospel is the truth, and that it is of God (Acts 15:25-27). Paul prearranged this hypothetical meeting to take place in order to encourage the elect to deliver the covenant message: “Herein I give my advice: for this is expedient for you, who have begun before, not only to do, but also to be forward a year ago. Now therefore perform the doing of it; that as there was a readiness to will, so there may be a performance also out of that which you have. For if there be first a willing mind, it is accepted according to that a man hath, and not according to that he hath not (2Corinthians 8:10-12).” In essence, Paul is strengthening today's believing priests, saying: You have prepared yourselves and your congregations, because the Spirit of the living Lord is within you and he has caused you to know that the covenant message is the truth; therefore go ahead and release the message unto the people, for it is more accepted of God that you have a willing mind, then that you have all the answers.
“I desired Titus, and with him I sent a brother. Did Titus make a gain of you? Walked we not in the same spirit? Walked we not in the same steps? (2Corinthians 12:18).” In saying “I desired Titus” Paul is urging today's believers to receive to Titus' testimony, for Titus came from a converted church, with a witness. Paul suggested that these two witnesses came without selfish motives. Their reasons for journeying to Achaia, as well as for attending this hypothetical meeting, are the same reasons that Paul had for being in ministry (1Timothy 2:6). Everyone of them, were, and are, hoping to defeat and destroy the lies and errs of religion. When today's witnesses come forth with evidences and with news concerning the effectiveness of the covenant message, they too will have the same spirit and the same objective that Paul and these two witnesses had: for their desire will be to do God's will, and their hope will be to defeat religion's errs. “Repent ye therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out, when the times of refreshing shall come from the presence of the Lord (Acts 3:19).”
“Now, behold, I go bound in spirit unto Jerusalem, not knowing the things that shall befall me there (Acts 20:22).” Paul’s next destination, was Jerusalem. He was determined to bring news of the gospel's success unto the awaiting religious authorities, regardless of his own personal safety (Galatians 2:2; 2:10). “I go unto Jerusalem to minister unto the saints (Romans 15:25).” When Paul arrived, “He declared particularly what things God had wrought among the Gentiles by his ministry. And when they heard it, they glorified the Lord (Acts 21:19-20).” Jerusalem, in the parable journey to common salvation, represents bringing our gifts of understanding, and our evidences of the success of the covenant message, unto the awaiting religious authorities, regardless of fears, or personal costs.
Rome finds its interpretation in the old testament. Paul was a Roman. The old testament affirms that at the end of time, fears of the oppressing sword will cause believers unto flee back to their own lands (Jeremiah 50:16; 51:9). In the journey towards common salvation, Rome represents priests returning to the places of their own assemblies, to testify the secrets of the covenant message before their own congregations, after evidence was delivered to the religious authorities. “As thou has testified of me in Jerusalem, so must thou bear witness also at Rome (Acts 23:11).” Paul wrote the book of Second Timothy, from Rome (2Timothy 1:17). Therefore when he penned the words, “I am now ready to be offered (2Timothy 4:6),” he was implying that Rome is about priests offering themselves before the congregation. Paul's testimony in Rome was a necessary part of the gospel's journey, because it was a pattern for the edification of today's priests. Paul's testimony there demonstrated unto today's believing priests that they will be releasing the truth of God's message before their own congregations (Ezekiel 12:16; 39:28). “I will be sanctified in you before the heathen (Ezekiel 20:41).”
Even Paul’s imprisonment provided understanding. Paul was given liberty, demonstrating that in Christ there is liberty (Acts 24:23; 2Corinthians 3:17). Yet Paul was kept bound, allowing that even Christianity is held in religious bondage. “Jerusalem which now is, and is in bondage with her children (Galatians 4:25).” Religion stands upon scripture verses which are being regarded as unchangeable laws (Galatians 3:11). Yet, God is not bound by their presumed technicalities (2Timothy 2:9). “When that which is perfect is come, then that which is in part shall be done away (1Corinthians 13:10).” Religion will change her ways (Hebrews 8:13) when she grasps the truth that Jesus Christ was a perfect lamb that was put to death, because his death was God's sacrifice that satisfied and fulfilled his promise to establish our covenants (Romans 15:8; 1Timothy 2:6). Salvation is, and has always been, granted unto faithful believers who have kept covenant, and that is the promise of God. “If they which are of the law be heirs, faith is made void, and the promise made of none effect (Romans 4:14).”
For a good concluding message, consider the Greek word “phaneroo.” This word was translated into the words: appear, manifest, declared, and showed. The definition of this word is: to render apparent. This word was translated 'appear' in the verse, “When Christ, who is our life, shall appear, then shall ye also appear with him in glory (Colossians 3:4).” Choosing this particular word to be used in this particular verse, was no accident. The placement of this word is evidence that Christ's appearing will be an inward manifestation (Luke 17:21). Right along with this thought, consider a verse wherein Paul said that he and his helpers would be raised up together with us on that day: “Knowing that he which raised up the Lord Jesus shall raise up us also by Jesus, and shall present us with you (2Corinthians 4:14).” Whereas the hidden mysteries of the gospel of reconciliation have been discovered, and the secret things which Paul and his helpers did our behalf have become apparent: The relevance of Paul's ministry has been magnified, and those hidden works which they secured in the gospel of reconciliation, will strengthen today's believers. “God hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus (Ephesians 2:6).” The love that Paul and his helpers had for the Lord, and for his people, and the works which they did because of their love, are manifesting in our minds, and in our hearts.
Scripture names certain things which will be manifested during end times, for instance: Paul’s gospel will manifest God’s word (Titus 1:3); Christ will be manifested to destroy the works of the devil (1John 3:8); the folly of people who resist the truth, will manifest (2Timothy 3:8-9); all the hidden things of scripture will manifest (Mark 4:22); and God’s will, and his judgments against those who refuse instruction, will also be manifested (2Corinthians 2:14; Romans 1:18-19; Revelations 15:4). It is becoming apparent through the covenant messages, that all of the things which are prophesied to manifest, will manifest unto the hearts and minds of God's elect. “Unto them that look for him shall he appear the second time without sin unto salvation (Hebrews 9:28).”
Jesus Christ went unto the cross and destroyed religion's curse (Galatians 3:13), and he secured our inheritance by the promise of God (Galatians 3:18). Don’t be afraid to cast out religion's doctrines: for God's promises are better (Isaiah 30:22). Promises which testify that believers are predestinated to receive an eternal inheritance through Jesus Christ (Ephesians 1:11); promises which verify that God will not hold any of our unintentional religious mistakes against us (2Corinthians 5:19); and promises which confirm that God has something better planned for his people (2Corinthians 3:10-11). When we cast out the dictates of religion, God will be our God (2Corinthians 6:17-18). "Now is come salvation, and strength, and the kingdom of our God, and the power of his Christ: for the accuser of the brethren is cast down (Revelation 12:10)."
“Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God (2Corinthians 7:1).” Flee unto God for refuge, and lay hold of the hope which is set before us (Hebrews 6:18). “Come out of her, my people, that ye be not partakers of her sins, and that ye receive not her plagues (Revelations 18:4).”
Saturday, May 18, 2013
Lessons of Simon Peter
“Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me?… Feed my sheep (John 21:16).” When Jesus asked Simon Peter three times to feed his sheep, it got our attention. Jesus never did anything by accident, so surely he had a good reason for making these three requests, and for placing so much attention on Simon Peter: but what was it? Throughout the generations priests have tried to answer this question, however their findings have always left believers feeling somewhat less than satisfied. Could there possibly be anything left to discover concerning this mysterious calling?
The character of Peter is typical of many Christians, and the challenges that he faced are the same challenges that believers struggle with today. Peter was a leader (Mark 1:36). True to his character, Peter was the first disciple to staunchly state before all the other disciples: “Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God (Matthew 16:16).” Therefore, Jesus boasted upon him, “Blessed art thou, Simon Bar-jona: for flesh and blood hath not revealed it unto thee, but my Father which is in heaven. I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it. And I will give unto thee the keys of the kingdom of heaven (Matthew 16:17-18).”
However, secretly within himself, Peter did not accept Jesus' position as Lord of all. This inner confidentiality was revealed by of Peter's unwillingness to submit himself to the words which Jesus spoke. For example, listen to the sting of Peter's words when he said unto Jesus, “Thou shalt never wash my feet (John 13:8).” Another revealing moment happened when Jesus had just finished prophesying details about his own death to his disciples (Luke 9:22). Peter spoke up and rebuked Jesus, saying, “Be it far from thee, Lord: this shall not be unto thee.” And Jesus' answer unto Peter would forever decry Christianity: “Get behind me, Satan: thou art an offense unto me: for thou savorest not the things that be of God, but those that be of men (Matthew 16:23).” If, and when, believers truly know that Jesus is Lord, they submit themselves to the authority his word. Peter had revealed before all the other disciples that he did not consider himself to be at all inferior to Jesus, in fact, he considered himself equal with Jesus, and he demonstrated this belief by declaring that some of the things which Jesus spoke were not going to happen. After Peter had challenged Jesus' authority, Jesus turned and looked upon the other apostles, and he delivered that offensive rebuke of Peter: for Peter, the rock which had just testified before all of them saying that he believed that Jesus was God's Christ; Peter lacked confidence in Jesus.
Outwardly, Peter flaunted great confidence in Jesus. “Though I should die with thee, yet I will not deny thee (Matthew 26:35).” But it was a superficial confidence that waned quickly. Peter watched as the lamb that he thought might be the Messiah, went before the authorities without resistance. There was nothing that Peter could do, but wait and see what would happen (Matthew 26:58). While he was watching and waiting, Peter denied knowing Jesus three times: and then he remembered Jesus' words. "Even this night, before the cock crow twice, thou shalt deny me thrice (Mark 14:30)." Peter wept, because he perceived the reality of Jesus, and because he came to realize his own shortcomings. “I tell you before it come, that, when it is come to pass, ye may believe that I am he (John 13:19).” Jesus had revealed himself to Simon Peter by prophesying details that directly involved Peter. When those details came true, Peter knew without any doubt that Jesus was indeed, the Christ child, the Messiah, the son of the living God. We, as believers, have the same weaknesses that Peter had, and God knows it to be true. When believers see and know that the prophecies which concern them are coming true, it will increase in their faith, and they too will stand up mightily for the Lord, just as Peter did.
But the true meaning behind those three mysterious requests for Peter to feed Jesus' sheep, came after Jesus' ascension: “When thou art converted, strengthen thy brethren (Luke 22:32).” Conversion is the act of turning from your current beliefs, in order to do the will of the Father. “Rise, Peter; kill, and eat (Acts 10:13).” Through visions upon a housetop, God directed Simon Peter to go to the home of a gentile. Jewish believers considered gentiles to be an unaccepted nation, and their homes were off limits to the Jews, so by following God's prompting Peter was breaking away from the traditional rules and beliefs of his own people, as well as from Jesus' own instructions (Matthew 10:5-6). By faith Peter taught the gentiles about Jesus, and he watched and witnessed as the Holy Spirit was poured out upon them (Acts 10:45; Luke 2:32). It took courage, confidence, and obedience, to overcome his fears and doubts, and to follow God's instructions. Peter was converted, for he was truly set free from the laws and traditions of his own religious beliefs!
When Peter was returned, he went to his fellow believers, and he fed them understanding by convincing them that God had granted salvation to the gentiles. "When thou art converted strengthen the brethren (Luke 22:32)." "They held their peace, and glorified God (Acts 11:18)." “Christ is the end of the law of righteousness to every one that believeth (Romans 10:4).” The apostles listened to Peter, and not only because Peter modeled obedience, but because his words agreed with scripture. "I will give thee... for a light to the gentiles (Isaiah 42:6)."
By the very definition of the word, elder, Peter automatically assumed the role of being an elder to the gentile church (Acts 15:2; 15:7; 1Peter 5:1). While he was serving in this capacity, Peter made food for today's believers, for he wrote valuable lessons which can safely guide Jesus' followers, even today. One significant lesson that Peter taught the followers of Christ, concerns their need to be receptive and submissive to God's voice through the voices of other believers (1Peter 5:5). Peter knew about this need, first hand, because not only had he experienced it through his own shortcomings in following Jesus, but also because of the times wherein, he, being filled with the holy Spirit, had spoken God's word, and message to others. Lessons concerning submissiveness are important lessons for end times, because end time understanding will be spread through the voices of believers that have submitted themselves to the answers of prophecy, as well as to the authority of God's word (1Timothy 5:17; 1Corinthians 16:16). This is God's way, for God declared that he would exalt the people of low degree, and that he would destroy the wisdom of the wise (Luke 1:52; James 1:9; 1Corinthians 1:19). Believers who submit themselves, and receive instruction and counsel from one another, are without confusion, because they have God's word as their final authority, and because they have the Holy Spirit which testifies truth to their souls (Acts 5:32; 1Peter 2:6). Scripture interprets scripture, which means that every accurate interpretation of prophecy is provable, for every accurate interpretation has evidence that backs it up (Romans 16:25-26; Isaiah 28:9-13). “No prophecy of scripture is of any private interpretation (2Peter 1:20).”
Every false and misguided notion that Peter ever had, he laid down, and he went and fed Jesus's sheep. Peter fed the gentiles with understanding, as well as the apostles, and he is still feeding believers today. So by asking Peter three times to feed his sheep, Jesus caused believers to acknowledge the three different ways in which Peter was called to minister to Jesus' followers. Yet, could there still be a deeper purpose for all this attention? Further evidence as to the purpose for making these three requests is written in the words which appear immediately following Jesus' requests. Before considering this evidence, it is beneficial to know that the words "what death he should glorify God" actually pertain to the laying down of one's life, in order to heed the call of the Lord. “Simon, son of Jonas, loves thou me? ...Feed my sheep. Verily, verily, I say unto thee, When you wast young, thou girdedst thyself, and walkedst whither thou wouldest: but when thou shalt be old, thou shalt stretch forth thy hands, and another shall gird thee, and carry thee whither thou wouldest not. This spake he, signifying by what death he should glorify God. When he had spoken this, he saith unto him, Follow me (John 21:18-19).” This evidence is implying that Peter would be chosen to break away from tradition, and to minister to a people that were esteemed unclean. This is the true reason for Jesus' three requests, because this is the hidden and discrete knowledge that will help edify today's believers.
Let's look at another verse which prophesy's an important lesson concerning this type of selflessly laying down one's life in order to lead others into the knowledge of truth: “Verily I say unto you, There be some standing here, which shall not taste of death, till they see the Son of man coming in his kingdom (Matthew 16:28).” Jesus was indicating that there, were, and are, followers of his that have not laid down their lives in this type of selfless obedience, but Jesus was also indicating that they will lay down their lives when they see and know that the revealed truths of prophecy are coming true. When Jesus spoke these prophetic words, Peter was among those that stood by, and Peter was a believer that had not yet tasted of death. After Christ was manifested to Peter, Peter laid down his life and tasted death, because then, and only then, did he truly know that Jesus was Lord, and then, and only then, did he know the importance of conversion, and of submitting oneself to the truth of God's word.
“Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you: But rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ’s sufferings; that, when his glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy (1Peter 4:12-13).” Believers are not to fear laying down their lives in order to serve the Lord. If we, as believers, believe the newly revealed truths of prophecy, then we are called to stand up and reveal those truths to the nations. What greater joy will there be then the joy of knowing that you have helped others escape the pestilences; and what greater proof of your faith will there be then that of speaking the truths of prophecy before the great and terrible day of the Lord is come! “I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us (Romans 8:18).”
Brethren, God is going to be threshing religion (Micah 4:13), and after its threshing, it will be completely destroyed (Ezekiel 21:27). Rejoice! Salvation from henceforth will be based upon our new covenant! “We, according to his promise, look for new heavens and a new earth, wherein dwelleth righteousness (2Peter 3:13).”
The character of Peter is typical of many Christians, and the challenges that he faced are the same challenges that believers struggle with today. Peter was a leader (Mark 1:36). True to his character, Peter was the first disciple to staunchly state before all the other disciples: “Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God (Matthew 16:16).” Therefore, Jesus boasted upon him, “Blessed art thou, Simon Bar-jona: for flesh and blood hath not revealed it unto thee, but my Father which is in heaven. I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it. And I will give unto thee the keys of the kingdom of heaven (Matthew 16:17-18).”
However, secretly within himself, Peter did not accept Jesus' position as Lord of all. This inner confidentiality was revealed by of Peter's unwillingness to submit himself to the words which Jesus spoke. For example, listen to the sting of Peter's words when he said unto Jesus, “Thou shalt never wash my feet (John 13:8).” Another revealing moment happened when Jesus had just finished prophesying details about his own death to his disciples (Luke 9:22). Peter spoke up and rebuked Jesus, saying, “Be it far from thee, Lord: this shall not be unto thee.” And Jesus' answer unto Peter would forever decry Christianity: “Get behind me, Satan: thou art an offense unto me: for thou savorest not the things that be of God, but those that be of men (Matthew 16:23).” If, and when, believers truly know that Jesus is Lord, they submit themselves to the authority his word. Peter had revealed before all the other disciples that he did not consider himself to be at all inferior to Jesus, in fact, he considered himself equal with Jesus, and he demonstrated this belief by declaring that some of the things which Jesus spoke were not going to happen. After Peter had challenged Jesus' authority, Jesus turned and looked upon the other apostles, and he delivered that offensive rebuke of Peter: for Peter, the rock which had just testified before all of them saying that he believed that Jesus was God's Christ; Peter lacked confidence in Jesus.
Outwardly, Peter flaunted great confidence in Jesus. “Though I should die with thee, yet I will not deny thee (Matthew 26:35).” But it was a superficial confidence that waned quickly. Peter watched as the lamb that he thought might be the Messiah, went before the authorities without resistance. There was nothing that Peter could do, but wait and see what would happen (Matthew 26:58). While he was watching and waiting, Peter denied knowing Jesus three times: and then he remembered Jesus' words. "Even this night, before the cock crow twice, thou shalt deny me thrice (Mark 14:30)." Peter wept, because he perceived the reality of Jesus, and because he came to realize his own shortcomings. “I tell you before it come, that, when it is come to pass, ye may believe that I am he (John 13:19).” Jesus had revealed himself to Simon Peter by prophesying details that directly involved Peter. When those details came true, Peter knew without any doubt that Jesus was indeed, the Christ child, the Messiah, the son of the living God. We, as believers, have the same weaknesses that Peter had, and God knows it to be true. When believers see and know that the prophecies which concern them are coming true, it will increase in their faith, and they too will stand up mightily for the Lord, just as Peter did.
But the true meaning behind those three mysterious requests for Peter to feed Jesus' sheep, came after Jesus' ascension: “When thou art converted, strengthen thy brethren (Luke 22:32).” Conversion is the act of turning from your current beliefs, in order to do the will of the Father. “Rise, Peter; kill, and eat (Acts 10:13).” Through visions upon a housetop, God directed Simon Peter to go to the home of a gentile. Jewish believers considered gentiles to be an unaccepted nation, and their homes were off limits to the Jews, so by following God's prompting Peter was breaking away from the traditional rules and beliefs of his own people, as well as from Jesus' own instructions (Matthew 10:5-6). By faith Peter taught the gentiles about Jesus, and he watched and witnessed as the Holy Spirit was poured out upon them (Acts 10:45; Luke 2:32). It took courage, confidence, and obedience, to overcome his fears and doubts, and to follow God's instructions. Peter was converted, for he was truly set free from the laws and traditions of his own religious beliefs!
When Peter was returned, he went to his fellow believers, and he fed them understanding by convincing them that God had granted salvation to the gentiles. "When thou art converted strengthen the brethren (Luke 22:32)." "They held their peace, and glorified God (Acts 11:18)." “Christ is the end of the law of righteousness to every one that believeth (Romans 10:4).” The apostles listened to Peter, and not only because Peter modeled obedience, but because his words agreed with scripture. "I will give thee... for a light to the gentiles (Isaiah 42:6)."
By the very definition of the word, elder, Peter automatically assumed the role of being an elder to the gentile church (Acts 15:2; 15:7; 1Peter 5:1). While he was serving in this capacity, Peter made food for today's believers, for he wrote valuable lessons which can safely guide Jesus' followers, even today. One significant lesson that Peter taught the followers of Christ, concerns their need to be receptive and submissive to God's voice through the voices of other believers (1Peter 5:5). Peter knew about this need, first hand, because not only had he experienced it through his own shortcomings in following Jesus, but also because of the times wherein, he, being filled with the holy Spirit, had spoken God's word, and message to others. Lessons concerning submissiveness are important lessons for end times, because end time understanding will be spread through the voices of believers that have submitted themselves to the answers of prophecy, as well as to the authority of God's word (1Timothy 5:17; 1Corinthians 16:16). This is God's way, for God declared that he would exalt the people of low degree, and that he would destroy the wisdom of the wise (Luke 1:52; James 1:9; 1Corinthians 1:19). Believers who submit themselves, and receive instruction and counsel from one another, are without confusion, because they have God's word as their final authority, and because they have the Holy Spirit which testifies truth to their souls (Acts 5:32; 1Peter 2:6). Scripture interprets scripture, which means that every accurate interpretation of prophecy is provable, for every accurate interpretation has evidence that backs it up (Romans 16:25-26; Isaiah 28:9-13). “No prophecy of scripture is of any private interpretation (2Peter 1:20).”
Every false and misguided notion that Peter ever had, he laid down, and he went and fed Jesus's sheep. Peter fed the gentiles with understanding, as well as the apostles, and he is still feeding believers today. So by asking Peter three times to feed his sheep, Jesus caused believers to acknowledge the three different ways in which Peter was called to minister to Jesus' followers. Yet, could there still be a deeper purpose for all this attention? Further evidence as to the purpose for making these three requests is written in the words which appear immediately following Jesus' requests. Before considering this evidence, it is beneficial to know that the words "what death he should glorify God" actually pertain to the laying down of one's life, in order to heed the call of the Lord. “Simon, son of Jonas, loves thou me? ...Feed my sheep. Verily, verily, I say unto thee, When you wast young, thou girdedst thyself, and walkedst whither thou wouldest: but when thou shalt be old, thou shalt stretch forth thy hands, and another shall gird thee, and carry thee whither thou wouldest not. This spake he, signifying by what death he should glorify God. When he had spoken this, he saith unto him, Follow me (John 21:18-19).” This evidence is implying that Peter would be chosen to break away from tradition, and to minister to a people that were esteemed unclean. This is the true reason for Jesus' three requests, because this is the hidden and discrete knowledge that will help edify today's believers.
Let's look at another verse which prophesy's an important lesson concerning this type of selflessly laying down one's life in order to lead others into the knowledge of truth: “Verily I say unto you, There be some standing here, which shall not taste of death, till they see the Son of man coming in his kingdom (Matthew 16:28).” Jesus was indicating that there, were, and are, followers of his that have not laid down their lives in this type of selfless obedience, but Jesus was also indicating that they will lay down their lives when they see and know that the revealed truths of prophecy are coming true. When Jesus spoke these prophetic words, Peter was among those that stood by, and Peter was a believer that had not yet tasted of death. After Christ was manifested to Peter, Peter laid down his life and tasted death, because then, and only then, did he truly know that Jesus was Lord, and then, and only then, did he know the importance of conversion, and of submitting oneself to the truth of God's word.
“Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you: But rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ’s sufferings; that, when his glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy (1Peter 4:12-13).” Believers are not to fear laying down their lives in order to serve the Lord. If we, as believers, believe the newly revealed truths of prophecy, then we are called to stand up and reveal those truths to the nations. What greater joy will there be then the joy of knowing that you have helped others escape the pestilences; and what greater proof of your faith will there be then that of speaking the truths of prophecy before the great and terrible day of the Lord is come! “I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us (Romans 8:18).”
Brethren, God is going to be threshing religion (Micah 4:13), and after its threshing, it will be completely destroyed (Ezekiel 21:27). Rejoice! Salvation from henceforth will be based upon our new covenant! “We, according to his promise, look for new heavens and a new earth, wherein dwelleth righteousness (2Peter 3:13).”
Wednesday, April 24, 2013
Shake Hands with Jezreel
God asked Hosea to serve him in a unique way: Hosea was to take a wife of whoredoms and to have children of whoredoms (Hosea 1:2). This precarious act was purposed to conjure up images of an unfaithful, and an offensive church. Hosea’s willingness to serve the Lord in this fashion earned him the privilege of announcing the new names of Zion’s children: Jezreel, Lo-ruhamah, and Lo-ammi. These are parable names which are given to believers, who, when they learned of religion's mistakes, they followed the Lord and forsook the traditional teachings of their religion. Before their conversions these children went by the names of Ephraim, Judah, and Israel. "To him that overcometh will I give... a new name (Revelation 2:17)." Calling believers that obeyed his voice by their new names, separated them from the traditionalists, thus making it possible for God to prophesy blessings upon the obedient, and cursings upon the rebellious.
“Ephraim is my firstborn (Jeremiah 31:9).” The parable name of Ephraim was used in prophesy to represent the followers of Jesus Christ. His followers were given an opportunity to receive the Holy Spirit, therefore they are God's first begotten of the dead (Revelation 1:5). Unto Ephraim, but specifically unto those Christians, who, after learning of their religious mistakes, turned from them, God gave the new name of, Jezreel. This truth was revealed to believers by a physical depiction. When Hosea and Gomer had their firstborn son, God said: “Call his name Jezreel (Hosea 1:4).”
“I will avenge the blood of Jezreel upon the house of Jehu (Hosea 1:4).” In order to correctly interpret this prophecy, believer's must study the life of Jehu. Jehu was a prophet who was divinely anointed to be king over Israel (1Kings 19:16). After being anointed king, Jehu killed the reigning king of Israel, as well as the king of Judah, and then he caused the deaths of Ahab's seventy sons, and he killed all of Ahab's relatives, including all the priests that were associated with Ahab's house (2Kings 9:24; 9:27; 10:6-7; 10:14; 10:25). These violent acts were done because Jehu was zealously preforming God's will. “Thou shalt smite the house of Ahab thy master… for the whole house of Ahab shall perish (2Kings 9:7-8).” “So Jehu slew all that remained of the house of Ahab in Jezreel, and all his great men, and his kinfolks, and his priests, until he left none remaining… He came to Samaria, he slew all that remained unto Ahab in Samaria, till he had destroyed him, according to the word of the Lord, which he spake to Elijah (2Kings 10:11, 10:17).” This violence is recorded for our edification. It a pattern which should cause believers to wonder: How can believers judge what is righteous in God's eyes when it comes to acts of violence being done in the name of Lord? “I considered in my heart even to declare all this... no man knoweth either love of hatred by all that is before them (Ecclesiastes 9:1).”
To more fully understand why God chose to put Jehu's name in prophecy, believer's must investigate what happened to Jehu after he was crowned king. “Jehu took no heed to walk in the law of the Lord God of Israel with all his heart: for he departed not from the sins of Jeroboam, which made Israel to sin (2Kings 10:31).” In other words, Jehu continued to uphold those same religious practices which had caused the house of Ahab to be destroyed. After being appointed king, Jehu had a decision to make: would he serve God with his whole heart and clean up the mistaken practices of Israel's religion, or not? Jehu's heart was divided. He chose to support the ways of the people, and he forgot the Lord. Causing a "divided heart" is God's quarrel against religion (Hosea 10:2, 13:6). These lessons offer meaningful understanding to the prophecy: "For yet a little while, and I will avenge the blood of Jezreel upon the house of Jehu; and will cause to cease the kingdom of the house of Israel (Hosea 1:4)." God is testifying that in the day of his wrath he will avenge the blood of Christians that were bringing forth the truth, upon every leader and supporter, who, after being shown the truth of his word, and after being anointed by his Holy Spirit, forgot God and returned to the former ways and practices of religion. God will not spare them in the day of his wrath. These believers have, in essence, sanctioned violence, and in that day, not only will God destroy them, but he will also destroy every deceitful practice of their religion, forever.
Hosea prophesied disturbing and alarming evidence against Christianity under the name of Ephraim: He prophesied that Ephraim compassed God daily about with lies, and that those lies are increasing more and more (Hosea 11:12; 12:1). According to the word of God by Hosea, Christian's are being given bad counsel, and they will receive shame (Hosea 10:6, 11:6). "The iniquity of Ephraim is bound up, his sin is hid. The sorrows of a travailing woman shall come upon him: he is an unwise son (Hosea 13:12-13)." "As for Ephraim... Woe to them when I depart from them (Hosea 9:11-12)." "Woe to them! For they have departed from me: Destruction to them! Because they have transgressed against me: though I have redeemed them, yet have they spoken lies against me (Hosea 7:13)." Despite their rebellious ways, God has sworn that he will not execute the fierceness of his anger upon Christians, neither will he utterly destroy them forever: however the prophesied punishments of affliction and pestilence will come upon Ephraim's priests, for the good of the people (Hosea 11:9). "I will chastise them, as the congregation hath heard (Hosea 7:12)."
A second child was born to Hosea and Gomer, a daughter, and this daughter was given Israel's new name. “Call her name Lo-ruhamah: for I will no more have mercy on the house of Israel; but I will utterly take them away (Hosea 1:6).” When the name of, Israel, appeared in prophecy, it was used as a parable name representing believers of the Islamic and Jewish nations: believers within these nations generally never receive the Holy Spirit, wherefore they were given a separate name. Proof of this is written in the verse: "Israel is an empty vine... they shall say, We have no king, because we feared not the Lord; what then should a king do to us (Hosea 10:3)?" So, according to the evidences of scripture, the parable name of Lo-ruhamah applies to believers within the Jewish and Islamic faiths, who, although they believe the news that is coming from the covenant message, they still need to learn of Jesus. Hosea's prophecy concerning Lo-ruhamah insinuates that when Lo-ruhamah is born, God will rise up against every believer of the Islamic or Jewish nation, that will not receive the truth of their messages, or that tries to come against these converts. "I will no more have mercy upon the house of Israel; but I will utterly take them away (Hosea 1:6)."
Homer conceived again and bare Hosea a third child, a son, and he was named, Lo-ammi. This name represents Zion's converted priests. When Lo-ammi was born, God delivered a reprimand against unbelievers: “Call his name Lo-ammi: for you are not my people, and I will not be your God. Yet the number of Israel shall be as the sand of the sea (Hosea 1:9-10).” Through teachings pertaining to the covenant message, these priests have been set free from the laws of their traditional religious teachings. "I will have mercy upon the house of Judah, and will save them by the Lord their God (Hosea 1:7)." Their new understandings will come before the congregation, and they will cause many to return unto the Lord, and to serve him in righteousness (Hosea 6:11). "It shall come to pass, that in the place where it was said unto them, Ye are not my people, there it shall be said unto them, Ye are the sons of the living God (Hosea 1:10)." “The consumption decreed shall overflow with righteousness (Isaiah 10:22).”
"Plead with your mother, plead: for she is not my wife, neither am I her husband... I will not have mercy upon her children: for they be the children of whoredoms (Hosea 2:2; 2:4)." God is calling for true believers to plead with the corrupted church. The corrupted church is not framing its doings to return to him (Hosea 5:4), it is transgressing against his covenant (Hosea 6:7), and it is relying upon inaccurate teachings, and mistaken teachers (Hosea 10:13). Plead with these believers, and let them know that God's wrath is purposed against their iniquities, and against the hatred that some of them have for God's people of other religions (Hosea 9:7). Plead with, and for, every deceived soul: "Oh Israel, return unto the Lord thy God: for thou hast fallen by they iniquity. Take with you words, and turn to the Lord: say unto him, Take away all iniquity, and receive us graciously: so will we render the calves of our lips... For in thee the fatherless findeth mercy. I will heal their backsliding, I will love them freely: for mine anger is turned away from him... His branches shall spread, and his beauty shall be as the olive tree (From Hosea 14:1-6)."
“Then said the Lord unto Hosea, Go yet, love a woman beloved of her friend, yet an adulteress... So I bought her to me for fifteen pieces of silver… I said unto her, Thou shalt abide for me many days; thou shalt not play the harlot, and thou shalt not be for another man: so will I also be for thee (Hosea 3:1-3).” This act is a portrait of redemption. Although persons of Jewish and Islamic faiths have not known the truth, Jesus Christ already paid the price for his bride. God is overturning every religion, and his people will be rejuvenated, because God is establishing a new covenant for them. "In that day will I make a covenant with them with the beasts of the field, and with the fowls of heaven, and with the creeping things of the ground: and I will break the bow and the sword and the battle out of the earth, and will make them to lie down safely (Hosea 2:18)."
“I will betroth thee unto me forever; yea, I will betroth thee unto me in righteousness, and in judgment, and in loving kindness, and in mercies. I will even betroth thee unto me in faithfulness: and thou shalt know the Lord (Hosea 2:19-20).” What better promises can believers get than the promises of peace which come from God? Or what better proof is there that the covenant message is truth, than the prophesies of Hosea? Praise God for what he has done: for Hosea prophesied that they shall hear Jezreel! "The earth shall hear the corn, and the wine, and the oil; and they shall hear Jezreel (Hosea 2:22)." Simply put, the earth shall hear God's people, and God's people shall hear the converts of Christianity!
"Then shall the children of Judah and the children of Israel be gathered together, and appoint themselves one head, and they shall come up out of the land: for great shall be the day of Jezreel (Hosea 1:11)!"
“Ephraim is my firstborn (Jeremiah 31:9).” The parable name of Ephraim was used in prophesy to represent the followers of Jesus Christ. His followers were given an opportunity to receive the Holy Spirit, therefore they are God's first begotten of the dead (Revelation 1:5). Unto Ephraim, but specifically unto those Christians, who, after learning of their religious mistakes, turned from them, God gave the new name of, Jezreel. This truth was revealed to believers by a physical depiction. When Hosea and Gomer had their firstborn son, God said: “Call his name Jezreel (Hosea 1:4).”
“I will avenge the blood of Jezreel upon the house of Jehu (Hosea 1:4).” In order to correctly interpret this prophecy, believer's must study the life of Jehu. Jehu was a prophet who was divinely anointed to be king over Israel (1Kings 19:16). After being anointed king, Jehu killed the reigning king of Israel, as well as the king of Judah, and then he caused the deaths of Ahab's seventy sons, and he killed all of Ahab's relatives, including all the priests that were associated with Ahab's house (2Kings 9:24; 9:27; 10:6-7; 10:14; 10:25). These violent acts were done because Jehu was zealously preforming God's will. “Thou shalt smite the house of Ahab thy master… for the whole house of Ahab shall perish (2Kings 9:7-8).” “So Jehu slew all that remained of the house of Ahab in Jezreel, and all his great men, and his kinfolks, and his priests, until he left none remaining… He came to Samaria, he slew all that remained unto Ahab in Samaria, till he had destroyed him, according to the word of the Lord, which he spake to Elijah (2Kings 10:11, 10:17).” This violence is recorded for our edification. It a pattern which should cause believers to wonder: How can believers judge what is righteous in God's eyes when it comes to acts of violence being done in the name of Lord? “I considered in my heart even to declare all this... no man knoweth either love of hatred by all that is before them (Ecclesiastes 9:1).”
To more fully understand why God chose to put Jehu's name in prophecy, believer's must investigate what happened to Jehu after he was crowned king. “Jehu took no heed to walk in the law of the Lord God of Israel with all his heart: for he departed not from the sins of Jeroboam, which made Israel to sin (2Kings 10:31).” In other words, Jehu continued to uphold those same religious practices which had caused the house of Ahab to be destroyed. After being appointed king, Jehu had a decision to make: would he serve God with his whole heart and clean up the mistaken practices of Israel's religion, or not? Jehu's heart was divided. He chose to support the ways of the people, and he forgot the Lord. Causing a "divided heart" is God's quarrel against religion (Hosea 10:2, 13:6). These lessons offer meaningful understanding to the prophecy: "For yet a little while, and I will avenge the blood of Jezreel upon the house of Jehu; and will cause to cease the kingdom of the house of Israel (Hosea 1:4)." God is testifying that in the day of his wrath he will avenge the blood of Christians that were bringing forth the truth, upon every leader and supporter, who, after being shown the truth of his word, and after being anointed by his Holy Spirit, forgot God and returned to the former ways and practices of religion. God will not spare them in the day of his wrath. These believers have, in essence, sanctioned violence, and in that day, not only will God destroy them, but he will also destroy every deceitful practice of their religion, forever.
Hosea prophesied disturbing and alarming evidence against Christianity under the name of Ephraim: He prophesied that Ephraim compassed God daily about with lies, and that those lies are increasing more and more (Hosea 11:12; 12:1). According to the word of God by Hosea, Christian's are being given bad counsel, and they will receive shame (Hosea 10:6, 11:6). "The iniquity of Ephraim is bound up, his sin is hid. The sorrows of a travailing woman shall come upon him: he is an unwise son (Hosea 13:12-13)." "As for Ephraim... Woe to them when I depart from them (Hosea 9:11-12)." "Woe to them! For they have departed from me: Destruction to them! Because they have transgressed against me: though I have redeemed them, yet have they spoken lies against me (Hosea 7:13)." Despite their rebellious ways, God has sworn that he will not execute the fierceness of his anger upon Christians, neither will he utterly destroy them forever: however the prophesied punishments of affliction and pestilence will come upon Ephraim's priests, for the good of the people (Hosea 11:9). "I will chastise them, as the congregation hath heard (Hosea 7:12)."
A second child was born to Hosea and Gomer, a daughter, and this daughter was given Israel's new name. “Call her name Lo-ruhamah: for I will no more have mercy on the house of Israel; but I will utterly take them away (Hosea 1:6).” When the name of, Israel, appeared in prophecy, it was used as a parable name representing believers of the Islamic and Jewish nations: believers within these nations generally never receive the Holy Spirit, wherefore they were given a separate name. Proof of this is written in the verse: "Israel is an empty vine... they shall say, We have no king, because we feared not the Lord; what then should a king do to us (Hosea 10:3)?" So, according to the evidences of scripture, the parable name of Lo-ruhamah applies to believers within the Jewish and Islamic faiths, who, although they believe the news that is coming from the covenant message, they still need to learn of Jesus. Hosea's prophecy concerning Lo-ruhamah insinuates that when Lo-ruhamah is born, God will rise up against every believer of the Islamic or Jewish nation, that will not receive the truth of their messages, or that tries to come against these converts. "I will no more have mercy upon the house of Israel; but I will utterly take them away (Hosea 1:6)."
Homer conceived again and bare Hosea a third child, a son, and he was named, Lo-ammi. This name represents Zion's converted priests. When Lo-ammi was born, God delivered a reprimand against unbelievers: “Call his name Lo-ammi: for you are not my people, and I will not be your God. Yet the number of Israel shall be as the sand of the sea (Hosea 1:9-10).” Through teachings pertaining to the covenant message, these priests have been set free from the laws of their traditional religious teachings. "I will have mercy upon the house of Judah, and will save them by the Lord their God (Hosea 1:7)." Their new understandings will come before the congregation, and they will cause many to return unto the Lord, and to serve him in righteousness (Hosea 6:11). "It shall come to pass, that in the place where it was said unto them, Ye are not my people, there it shall be said unto them, Ye are the sons of the living God (Hosea 1:10)." “The consumption decreed shall overflow with righteousness (Isaiah 10:22).”
"Plead with your mother, plead: for she is not my wife, neither am I her husband... I will not have mercy upon her children: for they be the children of whoredoms (Hosea 2:2; 2:4)." God is calling for true believers to plead with the corrupted church. The corrupted church is not framing its doings to return to him (Hosea 5:4), it is transgressing against his covenant (Hosea 6:7), and it is relying upon inaccurate teachings, and mistaken teachers (Hosea 10:13). Plead with these believers, and let them know that God's wrath is purposed against their iniquities, and against the hatred that some of them have for God's people of other religions (Hosea 9:7). Plead with, and for, every deceived soul: "Oh Israel, return unto the Lord thy God: for thou hast fallen by they iniquity. Take with you words, and turn to the Lord: say unto him, Take away all iniquity, and receive us graciously: so will we render the calves of our lips... For in thee the fatherless findeth mercy. I will heal their backsliding, I will love them freely: for mine anger is turned away from him... His branches shall spread, and his beauty shall be as the olive tree (From Hosea 14:1-6)."
“Then said the Lord unto Hosea, Go yet, love a woman beloved of her friend, yet an adulteress... So I bought her to me for fifteen pieces of silver… I said unto her, Thou shalt abide for me many days; thou shalt not play the harlot, and thou shalt not be for another man: so will I also be for thee (Hosea 3:1-3).” This act is a portrait of redemption. Although persons of Jewish and Islamic faiths have not known the truth, Jesus Christ already paid the price for his bride. God is overturning every religion, and his people will be rejuvenated, because God is establishing a new covenant for them. "In that day will I make a covenant with them with the beasts of the field, and with the fowls of heaven, and with the creeping things of the ground: and I will break the bow and the sword and the battle out of the earth, and will make them to lie down safely (Hosea 2:18)."
“I will betroth thee unto me forever; yea, I will betroth thee unto me in righteousness, and in judgment, and in loving kindness, and in mercies. I will even betroth thee unto me in faithfulness: and thou shalt know the Lord (Hosea 2:19-20).” What better promises can believers get than the promises of peace which come from God? Or what better proof is there that the covenant message is truth, than the prophesies of Hosea? Praise God for what he has done: for Hosea prophesied that they shall hear Jezreel! "The earth shall hear the corn, and the wine, and the oil; and they shall hear Jezreel (Hosea 2:22)." Simply put, the earth shall hear God's people, and God's people shall hear the converts of Christianity!
"Then shall the children of Judah and the children of Israel be gathered together, and appoint themselves one head, and they shall come up out of the land: for great shall be the day of Jezreel (Hosea 1:11)!"
Sunday, March 31, 2013
Behold, the Prophet
“Where shall wisdom be
found? And where is the place of understanding? Man knoweth not the
price thereof (Job 28:12-13).” Wisdom is found in studying God's word, but did you ever stop to wonder why God said in his word that there is a price for
wisdom? Could the price of wisdom be, suffering for God? "Wisdom is better than strength: nevertheless the poor man's wisdom is despised, and his words are not heard (Ecclesiastes 9:16)." "In much wisdom is much grief: and he that increaseth knowledge increaseth sorrow (Ecclesiastes 1:18)."
“If God were your Father, ye would love me: for I proceeded forth and came from God... Why do you not understand my speech? Even because ye cannot hear my word (John 8:42-43).” The priests and elders of Jesus' day didn't believe Jesus because their traditional teachings didn't allow for a carpenter's son to teach them God's ways. God anticipated their pride: Their deeds were recorded as a pattern for our edification (Ecclesiastes 3:15). End times are not going to be according to what the majority of believers think that God word says, end times will be according to the true interpretations of the revealed truths of prophecy.
If you could speak to the ancient prophets and ask them whether or not suffering is the price of wisdom, they would probably tell you that when
God gave them something new to prophesy, their counsel was not appreciated, their motives were misunderstood, and their prophesies were not fulfilled immediately. “I sat alone because of thy
hand... wilt thou be altogether unto me as a liar, and waters that
fail? (from Jeremiah 15:17-18).” The painfulness of waiting on God, and suffering the unbelief of fellow believers is the price that marks God's prophets, even as they are given the
honor of delivering God's word. Truly it is only by God's signs and wonders that truth is ever accepted by his people. “The righteous, and the wise, and
their works, are in the hand of God (Ecclesiastes 9:1).”
Moses could teach you something about the price of wisdom. This well respected prophet of the Lord was accused of making
life more difficult for the Hebrew people, he was murmured against, and even his own sister and brother doubted whether God was exclusively speaking through him (Exodus 5:21; 15:24;
Numbers 12:2; 14:4). Moses was eventually given honor, but the price of wisdom did not escape Moses. “If, when
you do well, and suffer for it, ye take it patiently, this is
acceptable with God (1Peter 2:20).”
God told Israel that he would raise them up another prophet, a prophet that they would eventually be required to hear. To send a prophet to Israel meant that God would be sending them someone who would suffer the price of wisdom, as Moses did. Jesus Christ satisfied that requirement. "Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that we should follow his steps (1Peter 2:21)."
Jesus knew the price of wisdom. “Thou,
child, shalt be called the prophet of the Highest (Luke 1:76).” He
referred to himself as a prophet, saying, "A prophet is not without honor, save in his own country, and in his own house (Mathew 13:57)." When
Christ walked the earth, he suffered misunderstanding. “Who, when he was reviled,
reviled not again; when he suffered, he threatened not (1Peter
2:23).” Jesus told his apostles that he must suffer
(Mark 8:31; 9:12; Luke 17:25)? Why did it behove Christ to suffer
(Luke 24:46)? Some might suggest that he suffered to make himself a
merciful High Priest (Hebrews 2:17), and others might argue that he
suffered to fulfill scripture (Isaiah 52:14), but there is yet another more pressing reason why Jesus was made to suffer: Jesus needed to verify to the world, and especially to the Jewish people, that he was that prophet. "I will raise them up a prophet from among their brethren, like unto thee, and will put my words in his mouth; and he shall speak unto them all that I shall command him. And it shall come to pass, that whosoever will not hearken unto my words which he shall speak in my name, I will require it of him (Deuteronomy 18:18)."
Why should Jewish and Islamic believers turn from their traditional teachings and embrace Jesus Christ, and his teachings? “He hath no
form of comeliness; and when we shall see him, there is no beauty
that we should desire him (Isaiah 53:2).” Because God desired Jesus for his people. "This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased (Matthew 3:17)." God's teachings of grace and truth came through the prophet Jesus Christ. Embracing Jesus and his teachings is our the new covenant, and only by trusting Jesus and receiving his teachings will a believer receive the gift of the Holy Spirit (John 14:16; 14:23). "Hereby we know that he abideth in us, by the Spirit which he hath given us (1John 3:24)."
Jesus knew and prophesied that he was to be rejected by the Jewish people of his generation (Luke 17:25; Isaiah 53:3), nevertheless, he was the fulfillment of Moses' prophecy. Just as Moses preformed miracles before Israel and those miracles testified that he was a prophet of God, so Jesus Christ performed miracles, and those miracles testified that Jesus was a prophet of God (John 5:36). But in case your ancestors missed the evidence, miracles are coming again, and they will once again bear witness that Jesus Christ is that prophet that Israel is required to hear. "It shall come to pass, that every soul, which will not hear that prophet, shall be destroyed from among the people (Acts 3:22)." After performing the miraculous signs and wonders of end times, God will destroy the souls of believers that refuse to receive and obey Jesus' teachings. Receiving Jesus' teachings comes with evidence of doing righteousness. “When ye have lifted up the Son of man, then shall ye know that I am he, and that I do nothing of myself; but as my Father hath taught me, I speak these things (John 8:28).”
Jesus knew and prophesied that he was to be rejected by the Jewish people of his generation (Luke 17:25; Isaiah 53:3), nevertheless, he was the fulfillment of Moses' prophecy. Just as Moses preformed miracles before Israel and those miracles testified that he was a prophet of God, so Jesus Christ performed miracles, and those miracles testified that Jesus was a prophet of God (John 5:36). But in case your ancestors missed the evidence, miracles are coming again, and they will once again bear witness that Jesus Christ is that prophet that Israel is required to hear. "It shall come to pass, that every soul, which will not hear that prophet, shall be destroyed from among the people (Acts 3:22)." After performing the miraculous signs and wonders of end times, God will destroy the souls of believers that refuse to receive and obey Jesus' teachings. Receiving Jesus' teachings comes with evidence of doing righteousness. “When ye have lifted up the Son of man, then shall ye know that I am he, and that I do nothing of myself; but as my Father hath taught me, I speak these things (John 8:28).”
Prophets will be used by God during end times. Through their messages God will give priests time to study the scriptures, and time to get their churches prepared for change. Their messages will help guide the righteous, and they will separate the servants of the Lord from the hypocrites (Proverbs 3:6). “The house of Israel will not
hearken unto thee; for they will not hearken unto me (Ezekiel 3:7).” "They refused to hearken, and pulled away the shoulder, and stopped their ears, that they should not hear (Zechariah 7:11)." Although hypocrites will refuse to hear, leaders that have spent time in God's word will recognize the truth; and they will hear the prophet's words, and they will follow the prophet's instructions. Together, believing priests and prophets will safely guide congregations through the prophesied judgments of end times.
“If God were your Father, ye would love me: for I proceeded forth and came from God... Why do you not understand my speech? Even because ye cannot hear my word (John 8:42-43).” The priests and elders of Jesus' day didn't believe Jesus because their traditional teachings didn't allow for a carpenter's son to teach them God's ways. God anticipated their pride: Their deeds were recorded as a pattern for our edification (Ecclesiastes 3:15). End times are not going to be according to what the majority of believers think that God word says, end times will be according to the true interpretations of the revealed truths of prophecy.
Friday, March 22, 2013
Ariel
“Woe to Ariel, to Ariel,
the city where David dwelt (Isaiah 29:1).”
The Jerusalem
Post published an article which drew attention to the unjust actions of President Barack
Obama as he singled out and excluded Ariel University students from
attending his presidential speech. The feelings of the Ariel University students are prophesied in the book of
Isaiah (Isaiah 29:2). In prophesies of Ariel, God likened the building of Ariel unto the
building of mount Zion. Like the people who are working against the building of Ariel, and there are people working against the building of mount Zion (Isaiah 29:8).
Before proceeding on with this message it is beneficial to understand God's parable meaning of the words, mount Zion. Mount Zion is an understanding wherein all three nations originating from the seed of Abraham, including Islam,
Judaism and Christianity, are all working together to build God's
kingdom. In Mount Zion, God has established one covenant for the purpose of uniting all three of these nations together. "They that trust in the Lord shall be as Mount Zion, which cannot be removed, but abideth for ever (Psalm 125:1)."
Isaiah likened mount Zion's distresses to that of Ariel. “I will distress Ariel, and there shall be heaviness and sorrow: and it will be to me as Ariel. And I will camp against thee round about, and will lay siege against thee with a mount, and I will raise forts against thee (Isaiah 29:2-3).” Ariel's existence is as a pattern that is meant to help believers interpret certain end time understandings. Men can see that troubles are coming against Ariel, and therefore they can perceive that there are people that scorn her existence. Through Ariel's existence and the pattern that she instigated, God is allowing believers to know that not only is he in Ariel, but he is also in the armies of those that are fighting against her, for God has said: "I will distress Ariel." For now Ariel has sorrows, but God also advertised that Ariel's, as well as Zion's enemies will be removed in an instant. "Yea, it shall be in an instant suddenly (Isaiah 29:5)."
Ariel's prophesies provide evidence God is in those believers that are fighting against the covenant message, while at the same time he is also in believers that are working to help establish it. This is because deceived believers need time to recover themselves: it will take time to convince them of the truths of the covenant message. “Keep silence before me, O islands; let the people renew their strength (Isaiah 41:1).” Since God is at work on both sides of this conflict, why should believers concern themselves with changing their religious beliefs? Because mount Zion is the peace that believers have been praying for (Psalms 122:6; 37:11; 46:9). It is the everlasting kingdom, it is our blessed hope, and it is our rest. "The Lord hath chosen Zion; he hath desired it for his habitation (Psalms 132:13)." Another reason that believers should willingly leave their religious practices to follow the Lord, is because God instructed them to do so. "Arise ye, and depart; for this is not your rest: because it is polluted, it shall destroy you, even with sore destruction (Micah 2:10)." “They have blown the trumpet, even to make all ready; but none goeth to battle: for my wrath is upon all the multitude thereof (Ezekiel 7:14).” This battle is about converting the religious beliefs of every believer, and it's about God causing his people to proclaim the covenant message.
Isaiah likened mount Zion's distresses to that of Ariel. “I will distress Ariel, and there shall be heaviness and sorrow: and it will be to me as Ariel. And I will camp against thee round about, and will lay siege against thee with a mount, and I will raise forts against thee (Isaiah 29:2-3).” Ariel's existence is as a pattern that is meant to help believers interpret certain end time understandings. Men can see that troubles are coming against Ariel, and therefore they can perceive that there are people that scorn her existence. Through Ariel's existence and the pattern that she instigated, God is allowing believers to know that not only is he in Ariel, but he is also in the armies of those that are fighting against her, for God has said: "I will distress Ariel." For now Ariel has sorrows, but God also advertised that Ariel's, as well as Zion's enemies will be removed in an instant. "Yea, it shall be in an instant suddenly (Isaiah 29:5)."
Ariel's prophesies provide evidence God is in those believers that are fighting against the covenant message, while at the same time he is also in believers that are working to help establish it. This is because deceived believers need time to recover themselves: it will take time to convince them of the truths of the covenant message. “Keep silence before me, O islands; let the people renew their strength (Isaiah 41:1).” Since God is at work on both sides of this conflict, why should believers concern themselves with changing their religious beliefs? Because mount Zion is the peace that believers have been praying for (Psalms 122:6; 37:11; 46:9). It is the everlasting kingdom, it is our blessed hope, and it is our rest. "The Lord hath chosen Zion; he hath desired it for his habitation (Psalms 132:13)." Another reason that believers should willingly leave their religious practices to follow the Lord, is because God instructed them to do so. "Arise ye, and depart; for this is not your rest: because it is polluted, it shall destroy you, even with sore destruction (Micah 2:10)." “They have blown the trumpet, even to make all ready; but none goeth to battle: for my wrath is upon all the multitude thereof (Ezekiel 7:14).” This battle is about converting the religious beliefs of every believer, and it's about God causing his people to proclaim the covenant message.
“Thou shalt be visited of the Lord of hosts with thunder, and with earthquake, and great noise, with storm and tempest, and the flame of devouring fire. And the multitude of all the
nations that fight against Ariel, even that fight against her and her
munition, and that distress her, shall be as a dream of a night
vision... So shall the multitude of all the nations be, that fight against mount Zion (Isaiah 29:6-8).” Unbelieving and rebellious priests, these verses prophesy a rebuke against you! This word argues that one day you are going to wake up, and you are going to perceive and know that the covenant message that you've been fighting against, is of God! Everything that you perviously believed about end times is going to come to nothing, like a dream. You are deceived priests which have been blinded by religion, and you are without the Lord's guidance. "The vision of all is become unto you as the words of a book that is sealed (Isaiah 29:11)." “In that day shall the
deaf hear the words of the book, and the eyes of the blind shall see
out of obscurity, and out of darkness (Isaiah 29:18).”
One final word of encouragement for the people that are helping to build mount Zion, as well as unto those that are helping to build Ariel: God's secret which he affirmed through the existence of Ariel, is that he will make haste to fulfill his word. "They that erred in spirit shall come to understanding, and they that murmured shall learn doctrine (Isaiah 29:24)." “Behold, all they that were incensed
against thee shall be ashamed and confounded: they shall be as
nothing; and they that strive with thee shall perish (Isaiah 41:11).”
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