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The Spirit of the Tithe: It Was Never About Money

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The Spirit of the Tithe: It Was Never About Money
Author: Joshua Tilghman
For many religious institutions, tithing is a big issue today. I can understand why. Many of these religious institutions are quite wealthy, and to maintain that wealth, tithing is necessary. But what is the real spirit of the scripture when it comes to the issue of tithing? Does the scripture really teach that God demands a tenth of our income? The answer may surprise you.
Let’s begin with Abraham. Many are taught that Abraham tithed, but nowhere in the Bible does it give any indication of this. The idea is really quite silly. In a single recorded incident Abraham gave Melchizedek a tithe on the spoils of war. For some reason, religious leaders often equate this with the modern idea of tithing on paychecks. In Abraham’s case, the spoils of war had nothing to do with Abraham’s income. This voluntary offer on the part of Abraham certainly didn’t set any tithing precedent, either; hundreds of years later, when Moses stated that the Israelites were to give Levites a small portion on the spoils of war, it wasn’t even close to ten percent. And how does an entire nation giving some of the spoils of war away equate to an individual tithing on their weekly or monthly income?
Here is something else to consider: What would Abraham’s regular tithes be used for? To go to the local ziggurat building fund? In Abraham’s day, a ziggurat was a rectangular, tiered temple built by the ancient Assyrians and Babylonians, but I don’t think Abraham would have had much use for that! As we’ll discuss shortly, the purpose of tithing was providing food for all the Israelites. But in Abraham’s day there were no Israelites.  
I have heard some use Jacob’s vow to God as setting a precedent to tithing. But this doesn’t make sense either since Jacob’s vow was conditional. Besides, if you do decide to tithe based on the condition of getting bountifully blessed by God, you might be in for a shock. Jacob surely had no life of luxury after making his conditional promise to God. In fact, he had a hard life. He even tells the Pharaoh of Egypt near the end of his life that his years had been “…few and evil…” (Gen. 47:9). You can hardly blame him for such a statement. While God blessed him with a big family, that family often brought hardship and shame to his life. He also lost a son (even though he found him later), lived through some pretty harsh times (like extreme famine), and never lived in a permanent location.
Now let’s go to the Torah where the law of tithing originated. First off I want to say that money wasn’t the issue-crops and livestock were. More specifically, community survival was the issue. There are four types of tithes mentioned in the Torah. The first tithe dealt with those who owned land and raised crops. Ten percent of the raised crops were to go to the Levites. Be reminded that this tithe only dealt with those who raised crops. No money was involved. This tithe was also only required for six years out of a seven-year cycle, and those who did not own land, such as the poor, were not required to give this tithe.
The next tithe I want to speak about involved setting aside food for those in need. It was only required on the third and sixth year out of the seven-year cycle. Deuteronomy 14:28-29 states:
“At the end of three years thou shalt bring forth all the tithe of thine increase the same year, and shalt lay it up within thy gates: And the Levite, (because he had no part nor inheritance with thee,) and the stranger, and the fatherless, and the widow, which are within they gates, shall come, and shall eat and be satisfied; that the LORD they God may bless thee in all the work of thine hand which thou doest.”
I have included the above scripture because it reveals something that many religious leaders today never consider. Piggybacking on the first tithe that I mentioned, the widow, the fatherless, and the stranger probably didn’t have the means to produce crops. Therefore, they did not pay tithes. Besides, this second tithe that I mention was brought to the storehouse for them.
The third type of tithe I want to mention was set aside for annual festivals. Basically this was a party tithe. Everyone had to put away a tenth of their income (after the first tithe) for the purpose of a feast day. The Bible also clearly states that it was okay to drink “strong drink” (beer) during this feast day. Party indeed! How would your religious leader feel about a portion of your tithe being set aside so that you can drink a six-pack and grill a filet mignon once a year on church property?! Maybe this scripture is the reason why some Rabbi’s don’t consider it a sin to get drunk on this feast day?
The last tithe I mention involved only the Levites. They were required to give ten percent of their best to the priest.
So what was the real spirit of tithing? I can honestly say it is one of the most beautiful examples of community love I can think of. Rather than being a way to amass wealth for church programs, buildings, and high-dollar salaries, it was a practical way to take care of the community. The Levites, the priest, the widows, the orphans, the poor, and even the stranger would have all benefited from the Torah tithe. Many times today tithing is done out of an attitude of obligation, but this should never be the case. Tithing has always been about physical provision for the community as a whole. If a religious leader states that tithing on your yearly income is a requirement by God, they are certainly not getting this teaching from the Bible. Instead it’s a part of their man-made religious program. Religion can only direct us to connect with God on the outside. Religion teaches humanity that God is “out there” and we have to reach out to him. This is why some religious leaders teach that tithing will bless you (Malachi 3:10 anyone?). But they misunderstand the entire concept of Biblical tithing and God. The Bible teaches us to connect to God on the “inside,” for this is the only place God can be found. That’s why Jesus stated the Kingdom of Heaven was within us.
In conclusion I want to say that giving is a wonderful thing. We should all be willing to give, especially out of our abundance. But we should never be coerced into tithing on our paychecks because God requires it. He most certainly does not. I would also like to add that most religious leaders who teach tithing is necessary are probably only teaching what they were taught. Education is the key. Feel free to use this article to help spread the word.

Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/ezine/5785448

Scientology – A General Summary of the Religion

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Scientology – A General Summary of the Religion
Author: William Bailey
Lafayette Ronald Hubbard born March 13, 1911well known as L. Ron Hubbard, incorporated the Church of Scientology in Camden, New Jersey in 1953.  L. Ron Hubbard is responsible for and founded the religion of Scientology, believing that people are immortal and have simply forgotten their true nature.  He was first known as an American pulp fiction writer specifically of science fiction and fantasy.  He was born in Tilden, Nebraska and traveled throughout Asia and the South Pacific after his father, a Naval Officer, was stationed in the country of Guam.  Hubbard attended George Washington University in Washington D.C. in the earlier 1930′s.  Shortly after attending Washington University he began his writing career, served as a Marine in the Reserves, and in the Navy as well at the time of World War II as a Commander.  His stent as a Commander for the Navy was cut short due to being “unsuitable” to command.  At the end of his military service term he developed gastrointestinal problems (ulcer in his duodenum). 
Hubbard then developed Dianetics “the modern science of mental health”, ideas and practices regarding the relationship of one’s mind and body and metaphysics (a branch of philosophy that explains the nature of being and the world, and the properties of space and time of objects and their existence).
Dianetics method (referred to as “auditing”) is to remove the subconscious mind (reactive mind) which is responsible for preventing people to better themselves such as being more ethical, aware, saner, and happier.  Generally, Dianetics reportedly investigates the mind’s conscious or analytical mind, subconscious or reactive mind, and the somatic mind.  The auditing process makes you face your fears.  What doesn’t kill you makes you stronger if you use the experience in the proper manner.  The Scientologist auditor asks a number of questions about the painful experience(s).  By asking selected questions directly about the experience, you face your fear, rid your subconscious mind of the control you allowed the fear to have over your mind, thereby ridding yourself of the “reactive mind” and allowing yourself to be happier, more aware, etc…  
Dianetics originated and continued to expand through direct experiences of Hubbard himself.  Dianetics “forms a bridge between” general semantics and cybernetics which were ideologies referring to education originated by Alfred Korzybski (Korzybski was popular in science fiction at the time).  Dianetics has been known as a mixture of Oriental philosophy and Western technology.  Some ailments that are the focus of Dianetics assistance in curing are:

Eliminating unwanted emotions.
Numerous psychosomatic ailments.
Arthritis
Allergies
Asthma
Eye ailments
Some headaches
Ulcers
Death
Some cardiac ailments.

Dianetics ended up being part of the “doctrine” for the Scientology religion.  The auditing procedure used in Dianetics and facing your fears to overcome the emotional stops in life are key factors in Scientology.  The auditing courses along with the “study material” are offered after specified donations are received.  Despite unfounded remarks from certain critics, Scientology is recognized as a religion in the United States (with the accompanied tax-exempt status) and other countries as well.  The Church of Scientology enforces the beliefs and rituals of the Scientology religion and aides the local communities with financial contributions and congregational assistance for various social service groups such as the Narconon anti-drug program and the Criminon prison rehabilitation program.   Other organizational assistance is offered through volunteer help when needed as well.   
“The Way to Happiness” is a booklet specifying the moral guidelines for the Scientology religion.  To state that Scientology has been criticized in the 20th century in various ways is an extremely large understatement.  The term “cult” has been overly used when referring to Scientology.  Accusations of “financial defrauding” have been thrown at The Church steps of Scientology, endlessly.  Financial requests and implied requirements have been and are still today involved with various other religious denominations, in fact some of the major world religions that cover a major piece of the globe require or “request a donation” for certain rituals or practices, thereby making the money requested by Scientology for various rituals in no way different.  In fact, Scientology is one of the very few religions that call the “donations” for what they truly are, fees.
The critics that have publicly criticized Scientology’s donation procedures and have gone as far as harassing them, have been aggressively pursued within the legal arena with multiple law suits, standing by their religious ethics as being completely lawful and within the common practice of all religious communities.  These consistent legal battles and the fact that no legal suit has been ruled against Scientology, supports Scientology’s moral toughness and validity, showing society that they are confident in their legal practices.
The following are various beliefs and other sources of controversy of the Scientology religion:

The term for souls is “thetans”.
Thetans are reincarnated numerous times and have been reincarnated to living beings on other planets (another source of controversy, surprised?).
It has been said that some of Scientology’s teachings are not taught unless the member has paid the proper fee (in some cases thousands of dollars).
Psychiatry is a practice that Scientology would like to disappear (it is said to be in most cases very destructive.  Again another object of controversy).
The auditing as describe is the heart of the religion.  It works 100% of the time when a well-trained Scientologist performs the auditing and the member truly wants to better their life.
All Scientology beliefs deal with the thetan (true identity of an individual which is a good and omniscient core that has unlimited originality and creativity.
Thetans are reincarnated over and over in new bodies.  This process is termed assumption.
There are two main parts of the brain, reactive (is like a sponge that absorbs all mental or emotional pain and trauma), and the analytical mind functions radically which is responsible for consciousness.  The reactive portion takes mental pictures which are not able to be seen by the analytical or conscious mind.  These pictures that are not available to the conscious mind are called engrams (very agonizing and painful).  As these engrams accumulate people stray further from their true identities.  A main goal in this religion is to avoid this.  Auditing is the procedure that alleviates the accumulation of engrams and allows the individual to acquire their reality as a thetan.

There are eight churches in existence today with the largest in Hollywood, California.  The centers are named “Celebrity” Scientologist Churches.  They are all open to the public however they are mainly designed for Scientologists.  Some of the celebrities that are Scientologist include John Travolta, Kristie Alley, Lisa Presley, Isaac Hays and Tom Cruise.  

Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/ezine/5761871

The Evidence-Based Church: An Orientation Guide to Enhance Retention

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The Evidence-Based Church: An Orientation Guide to Enhance Retention
Author: Shamim Hin
An evidence-based church is the practice of using current human resource principles and industrial psychology to enhance retention and decrease turnover. Many modern contemporary churches have an orientation program for church membership. The common thread between these programs includes an opportunity to communicate the purpose and expectations of the church. The culture is introduced to allow new and prospective church members to assimilate towards a unique church experience.
The manner in which people join your church will determine their effectiveness as members for years to come … If little is required to join, very little can be expected from your members later on – Rick Warren
Identifying the culture church begins by asking the right questions leading to an evidence-based change. An evidence-based change began from the medical profession then moved to human resources. Rather than cookie-cutting their approach like all cancer patients need immediate chemotherapy, physicians began examining patients by asking the right questions leading to the most effective treatment.
According to Transformative HR authors John W. Boudreau and Ravin Jesuthasan, one of the starting points for evidence-based change include identifying the demand-side and supply-side segmentations. Demand-side segmentation focuses on what the organization needs while supply-side segmentation focuses on attracting and motivating behaviors. Both of these concepts should be incorporated into an orientation program to enhance retention and reduce turnover.
Demand-Side Segmentation 
Church must share clear expectations through an orientation program addressing membership expectations. This includes sharing the culture of the church which will address their uniqueness amongst other respective churches.
The gospel should be introduced as part of the orientation program however the presentation should be complement the church culture. One should not assume that a person knows Christ because they are transferring their membership from another church, even of the same denomination, or faith. By addressing their expectations, the church fulfills the demand-side segmentation of focusing what are their needs to new members.
If your church is healthy, growth will occur naturally…If you will concentrate on building people, God will build the church – Rick Warren
Supply-Side Segmentation 
Prospective members begin to assimilate within the church through a series of answering questions such as how they can develop friends in this church, where do they fit in, and am I needed? Developing meaningful and deep fellowships allows new and members to be attracted towards to building a strong bond with other members as well as their church. Care circles provide the means of building meaningful relationships with other members of the church through Bible Studies, offering ministry opportunities, and attending personal needs like prayer requests.
Spiritual Gifts and Ministry Involvement 
Every aspect of church life should point toward ministry involvement and getting people connected to life and mission of the church. The church must also respect each member’s spiritual gifts. Spiritual gifts strengthen the church by using the special abilities given by the grace of God. Misuse and misunderstanding of spiritual gifts brings division and may split of break fellowships. You cannot put a square peg in a round hole. Not all members have the gift of Helps to serve in the ushering ministry. A person serving in the ushering ministry without the proper spiritual gifts will eventually feel tired of serving and leave the ministry which may influence him to seek another church. It is important for all members to take a spiritual gift test to see which ministry would be appropriate for them.
Retention and Turnover 
Lower retention levels lead to increasing turnover. People who are unwilling to participate within an orientation program unfortunately communicate a disregard for commitment that may haunt the church in the future. The typical response from church leaders is calling them backsliders. Neither of these people allows two-way communication and only accelerates resentment.
Steps to Build an Orientation Program 
The orientation classes should be made available for anyone who needs a greater understanding of church ministry and membership responsibilities. Every church has a unique culture and experience which needs to be communicated consistently to build a strong foundation of fellowship for new and prospective members.
The orientation program should begin with a brief history of the church as well as vision and strategies for the future. A church will create both a purpose and mission statement containing both the purpose of the church and clearly defined disciple-making ministry process. These statements must be communicated to all members of the church through an orientation class. Sincere discipleship would occur after communicating these expectations of church membership.
1. Identify Church Culture 
2. Create Communication Protocols 
3. Develop a Functional Organizational Structure 
4. Train Members 
5. Spiritual Gifts Test 
6. Evaluate Progress 
7. Create New Plans For New Challenges 

Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/ezine/5750420

Secret Societies

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Secret Societies
Author: William Bailey
The vast majority of people believe that secret societies were originally structured in a way to keep the existence of the society unknown to the public.  Due to the uncontrollable fascination and curiosity of people the complete secrecy of many societies proves to be impossible, but the members keep their allegiance by taking an oath to keep the specifics of the society secret such as their rituals, ceremonies, and other societal business information.  Some characteristics of secret societies are as follows:

     Ceremonies of religious character.
     Biblical scripture usage.
     The usage of altars, signs, and symbols.
     Special funeral services.
     The use of religious inspired prayers.
     The usage of hymns.
     Secret passwords, handshakes, and other procedures.
     Specific clothing, jewelry, and other organizational specific materials.
     Promises and oaths taken by members to guarantee secrecy.

Peter Rosen wrote a book titled, “The Catholic Church and Secret Societies”.  This book listed detailed characteristics and descriptions of religious secret societies.  Rosen states that secret societies completely conceal their business activities, passwords, and all other activities.  If secrets are relinquished by members, some organizations administer punishment.  At times the punishment is severe.  There are varying degrees of authority within secret organizations, lower and higher ranked members of the group.  Secrets within secret societies were common.  The higher ranked members had knowledge of the group’s business affairs that the lower ranked members were not privy to.  Religious secret societies were created to promote good wholesome ideals and concepts without any violent attributes within its organizations and are completely separate from evil religiously motivated extremist terrorist groups that utilize violence, warfare, and any evil means necessary to achieve their goals.  The members of these extremist groups are led by blind faith and follow leaders that all but promise rage, horror and destruction.  The Catholic Church has specifically banned those specific organizations that act against the Church and government. 
Although secret societies didn’t officially exist prior to the Middle Ages, groups bragged of esoteric doctrines that were kept in secret and only viewed by the organization’s members.  Researchers date religious secrets as far back as 530 B.C. with Pythagoras of Samos, a Greek philosopher, mathematician and founder of his religious movement, Pythagoreanism.  Pythagoras moved to Croton, a Greek colony in southern Italy around 530 BC, where he originated a religious group, where his rites, practices and philosophical theories were practiced by the faithful members of his faith.  Pythagoras was as active in politics as he was religion.  It was his political ambitions that led to his downfall.  His Pythagorean religious meeting places were destroyed and burned to the ground.  He fled Croton and was believed to have spent his last days in Metapontum, Italy. 
The following top ten secret societies are among the most popular and famous organizations that have allegedly been link to conspiracy theories:

     Freemasons
     The Order of the Skull and Bones
     Hermetic Order of the Golden Dawn
     The Knights Templar
     The Rosicrucian Order
     Ordo Templis Orientis (OTO)
     The Illuminati
     The Bilderberg Group
     The Priority of Sion
     Opus Dei

The Freemasons
We know today that the true secret societies began with symbolic Freemasonry in or around the year 1717 in London, England.  It didn’t take long for Freemasonry to father a widespread family of various branches of fraternities that were founded by and or resembled Freemasonry in numerous ways.  The group currently has approximately six million members worldwide, 150,000 are under the Scotland and Ireland jurisdictions, another 250,000 members in England and approximately two million in the United States.
The organization is subdivided into individual Grand Lodges with their own jurisdictions.  Each jurisdiction is again divided into individual Lodges.  Grand Lodges who share common landmarks and symbols recognize one another. 
When and where the Freemasons originated is a subject of some debate.  A sixty four page poem titled, the “Regius Manuscript” or the “Regius Poem” is the oldest Masonic text that has been dated to approximately 1390.  After careful examination of the document, evidence suggests that Masonic Lodges existed in Scotland in the late 16th century and England in the mid-17th century.  The Regius Manuscript included the following:

     Geometry
     A fifteen point moral behavioral plan.
     On site work operation procedures.
     A fifteen point craftsman plan.

The Regius Manuscript was donated to the British Museum by King George II in 1757 and is portrayed as the museum’s center piece.
The belief in a Supreme Being is absolutely essential for candidates for regular Freemasonry.   The Supreme Being can be from whichever belief system the member chooses.  The Supreme Being is responsible for the creation of the beautiful architecture of the Universe, thereby directly relating to the symbolism of architecture in the Freemasonry organization.  It’s forbidden to speak of religion or political issues within a Masonic Lodge.  A Volume of the Sacred Law is displayed within an “open lodge”.  The King James Version of the Bible is the Doctrine of choice in the vast majority of English speaking countries.  Lodges that have members of multiple faiths may display various sacred texts.  In the spirit of Secret Societies, Freemasons utilize secret, need to know passwords and other gestures such as handshakes to gain entry to a Lodge. 
Members have obligations or promises which are taken very seriously to the brotherhood.  These obligations and promises consist of:

 Promising to portray a demeanor which benefits the member within society.
 Obeying the law of the member’s Supreme Being selection.
 Obeying the law of the land, the state, and the government.
 Promising not to mislead, steal, or perform wrong doings towards the Lodge        or fellow members.
 Promises to attend Lodge meeting and such when at all able.
 Promises to assist a fellow Freemason or their family in times of need while keeping the needs of his own family as a priority as well.

The concepts of oaths, promises, and swears are integral parts of a Freemason’s life.  Freemasons are historically known for their so called “blood penalties” use as discipline when a member violates his oath.  The penalty is comparable to the similar type of blood oath taken and enforced in Mormonism.  The Mormons compare their own disciplinary system to that of the historical Freemason ways.  Today the concentration of the penalty of betraying the brotherhood is to focus more on how the member should genuinely feel about their betrayal.  The modern day penalties are reprimand, suspension, or expulsion from the organization accompanied with the shame of betrayal.
The religious status of Freemasonry is clear.  The organization states that Freemasonry is not a religion and no Freemasonry God exists (Masonic God).  The organization accepts members from all types of religious backgrounds including Christianity, Buddhism, Islam, Judaism, Hinduism, and many others.

Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/ezine/5737975

Bible Study Lesson on Gifts of the Spirit

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Bible Study Lesson on Gifts of the Spirit
Author: T.O.D. Johnston
Read I Corinthians chapters 12 and 13.

Bestowed on every believer to serve the church. The difference between natural abilities and spiritual gifts are in the results. Teaching spiritually goes beyond facts and understanding, to the heart – feeling a desire to follow Christ’s way. To help the growth, education, and maturing of the church.

There are service gifts – giving of time, compassion, money, showing mercy, and forgiveness. Also, gifts of teaching, prophecy, and preaching the Gospel, as well as gifts for special signs to manifest the power of God – healing miracles, and tongues. The latter are not for everybody to exercise in any and every circumstance. If you are in tune with the Holy Spirit, spiritual gifts take care of themselves. The whole point of gifts is to benefit others.

The guide is the human body – one body, one spirit. All work together for the common good. Comparing and any resulting jealousy has no place. All contribute to the growth and maturity of each local assembly of members of Christ’s Body.

Read Ephesians 4:11-16.

Cancer cells are said to work only for their own benefit, not the benefit of the body. Therefore, these cells are destructive to the body. Some people do the same within the church.

Worship leads to service, which is possible through the gifts of the Spirit. We must not think too highly of ourselves – all are saved sinners, only by God’s grace and mercy. You may minister to the church through the same areas of natural (God given) talent or ability – or you may not. We are to use God’s gifts for God’s glory as we have accepted God’s grace, so that God’s greatest Gift to us, His Son, may be glorified.

A church should not function as a local spiritual filling station, so that its members can limp along through another week. All worship must lead to and energize service towards others.

No scripture urges believers to look for their spiritual gifts. If we sit around and wait for God to show us our gifts, we will receive nothing. Gifts are revealed through service. If we get busy serving, the Spirit’s gifts will be revealed. If we have a ministry, we will be equipped for it. Spiritual gifts are given to minister to the spiritual Body of Christ.

Two obvious principles: 1. failure to serve will greatly limit a believer’s experience of the power of the Holy Spirit and the joy that it brings. 2. if we do serve others, we will experience the help and influence of the Spirit, bringing skill and joy in the work. We should seek for the task God wants us to take on. He will give us what we need to accomplish it. If we choose a task, or others choose it for us, and there is no success, then another area of service should be sought.

The point is: when the task is right, God’s gifts will be given. Seeking gifts first is backwards and fruitless. When we seek to help someone and are successful, then we know that God has blessed our effort and that shows us our gift.

The greatest motivation comes from spending time with Jesus, contemplating the great things He has done for each of us, thinking about the greatness of His Person – the Son of God, Who spoke all things into existence, Who holds all things together, Who is building and maturing His church, and Who intercedes for us with the Father. Jesus is the One Who cares for each of us and Who will call us to be with Him and the Father through all eternity in the new heavens and new earth. It will be a place without sin or tears – there will be only peace and joy and praise to the Father through the Son by the Spirit of grace and truth, forever.

Amen.

Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/ezine/5643348

Christ in Every Section of the Bible

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Christ in Every Section of the Bible
Author: T.O.D. Johnston
The anticipation of Christ in the Old Testament includes the Law – the foundation, and the Prophets – the expectation.

The realization of Christ in the New Testament includes the manifestation in the Gospels, the interpretation in the Epistles.

The Law of Moses prefigured the basic types and patterns which were later fulfilled in Christ.

It was also a moral preparation – the law was man’s tutor in what God demanded – whereupon guilt would lead them to Christ for forgiveness.

The Law also recorded the first Messianic hope in Genesis 3:15, and to the people of Israel in Deuteronomy 18:15.

The Prophets at the Expectation of Christ.

The promise was a prophet like unto Moses from among the Jews (Deuteronomy 18:15). First the promised land was possessed under Joshua. In Judges, many deliverers were seen. In Samuel, the anointing of King David through whom the ‘anointed One’ was promised (II Samuel 7:12). As the empire of Israel chose sin: Isaiah, Jeremiah, Ezekiel, Daniel and the Twelve minor prophets kept the promise of Messiah alive to the last book of the Old Testament (Malachi 4:2). Then the Jews returned to Israel from Babylonian captivity in Ezra, and reconstruction in Nehemiah.

The Gospels show the Manifestation of Christ. This begins with the ministry of one crying in the wilderness, that of John the Baptist (Matthew 3:3) as Isaiah had predicted (Isaiah 40:3). What was anticipated in the Old Testament realized in the New. Prophecy becomes history. He embodied the way of faith and hope in God (I Peter 1:20,21).

This was to take away sins (I John 3:5). Also to destroy the works of the devil (I John 3:3). Also to show the love of God manifest among men, that we might live through Christ (I John 4:9). This was to manifest the mystery hidden for ages and ages (Colossians 1:26).

Jesus came yet the world knew Him not. He came to his own home, yet His own people received Him not (John 1:10,11). To all those who received Him, who believed in His Name, He gave power to become children of God (John 1:12).

The Epistles and Acts interpreted Christ. They explained what His coming meant and how it was to be applied in the life of the believer. This was accomplished through the promised Holy Spirit who was to teach the disciples all things and bring to their remembrances all that Jesus had spoken to them.

The church from the beginning had devoted themselves to the teaching of the apostles (Acts 2:42). They were exhorted to hold to the traditions which were taught by the apostles (II Thessalonians 2:15). These were recorded in the Epistles and were added to the Gospels and Revelation, to form the New Testament.

To go into greater detail, the Testaments can be divided into four parts each:

The Old Testament
1. The Law (Genesis – Deuteronomy)
2. History (Joshua – Nehemiah)
3. Poetry (Job – Song of Solomon)
4. Prophecy (Isaiah – Malachi)

The New Testament
1. The Gospels
2. The Acts of the Apostles
3. The Epistles
4. Revelation

Parallels – In the Law, God laid the foundation for Christ. In History, the nation of Israel becomes active in the promised land, and the lineage through David, from which Christ will come, is established. The Poets aspire and express that longing and looking for Christ. The Prophets look forward in expectation of Christ.

The Law established God’s presence among men symbolically – commandment, tabernacle, sacrifices, feasts, Christophanies. In the Gospels, God dwells among men in human form, in Jesus. The Law lays the foundation for the nation of Israel. The Gospels lay the foundation for the church. In the Law, Moses is the central figure who instructs God’s people. In the Gospels, Christ teaches His followers to have faith in Him. The movement is from foundation to perfection. Read Hebrews 3:5,6.

Parallels in the Histories and the Acts.

The Israelites became a nation and a force in the world, and they were more effective when they were true to God. In Acts, the church spreads far and wide, though heresies crept in. Old Testament History records the promise to Abraham that he would become a great nation ‘through whome all the families of the earth shall be blessed.’ By and large, Israel failed to be the channel of blessing to the surrounding nations. They hoarded the promises and built a wall of hostility. In New Testament history, Christ and His church broke down the wall, welcoming Jew and Gentile alike. The Gospel will continued to spread all around the world.

Parallels in the Poetry and the Epistles.

The poets looked for and longed for the Prophet and King promised by God. The Epistles explain and describe all blessings in Christ as High Priest. Both interpret the foundational truths they knew.

Parallels between the Prophets and the Revelation. Both are prophesy of Christ. The Old Testament predicts both the first and second comings. The New Testament records the first coming and predicts the second. Both Testaments end with the Second Coming of Christ.

Differences: Daniel was told that the words are shut up and sealed until the time of the end (Daniel 12:9). John was told, ‘Do not seal up the words of the prophecy of this book, for the time is near.’ The Old Testament predicted the Coming of Christ. Revelation looks forward to the consummation of all things in Christ.

Christ as High Priest in the Epistles – Hebrews 2:17; 3:1; 4:15; 7:28.

Hebrews 2:17.
First mention of Jesus as our High Priest. He had to take on human flesh to become like His brethren, to be a merciful and faithful representative of the people, only without sin, to make reconciliation with God for the sins of the people. Verse 3:1 restates Christ as High Priest.

4:14,15.
As High Priest, Christ now in heaven pleads our case, representing us, being able to feel our infirmities, as He experienced temptation, yet without sin.

5:5-10.
A priest forever called of God a High Priest after the order of Melchizedek (in the Old Testament, Psalm 110:4).

7:1-28.
This chapter describes the history of Melchizedek dealing with Abraham. Then the Aaronic priesthood, one after the other – because they were mortal and passed away. Not so with Christ, Who continues forever, unchangeable, making intercession for them, able to save to the uttermost, those that come unto God.

Christ Presented in the Four Gospels:
Matthew presents Christ as King of the Kingdom of heaven (Zechariah 9:9) to the Jews: From the line of Abraham and David, the lion of the tribe of Judah (Ezekiel 1:10); the teaching is emphasized; He provides righteousness through His role as Savior.

Mark presents Christ as the Suffering Servant of God, especially to the Romans. The symbol of the ox; the emphasis is on what He did as God’s servant and powerful Savior.

Luke’s theme was Christ as man to the Greeks, from the ancestry of Adam, Who came as the second Adam, only without sin, to redeem mankind as the perfect Savior.

John presents Christ as God, the Living Word to the world, the very Son of God, from eternity. The symbol of the eagle, the expression of God’s thoughts. The provider of eternal life as the Personal Savior.

The Acts: the Evangelization of Christ. Jesus had told His disciples to spread the Gospel to all nations. God had told Abraham that the end purpose of his people was the blessing of all nations. This was to be carried out in the spread of the message of the Savor. The outpouring of the Spirit began the proclamation in Jerusalem. Then persecution caused the spread into all of Judea and Samaria. With the conversion and missionary journeys of Paul, the Gospel of Christ was spread to the ends of the Roman empire and onward and outward.

The Epistles interpret and apply the Gospels of Christ to His church. They include the interpretation and application: the possessions believers have in Christ. Romans explains the Redemption which is in Christ Jesus: the righteousness of God imputed to man through faith in Jesus. I Corinthians emphasizes sanctification of the believer. II Corinthians explains the persecution, the sharing of Christ’s suffering, but also His comfort.

Galatians emphasizes our freedom in Christ through love. Ephesians explains exaltation and unity in Christ, blessed in Christ with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places. Philippians shows joy in Christ, to glory in Christ, to rejoice in Christ. Colossians shows completion in Christ – to become mature in Him. Christ was and ever is the God-man – we are complete in Him. I Thessalonians exhorts the expectation – the hope we have in Christ Jesus. This expectation in Christ is confidence in what is yet to come. II Thessalonians – Glorification in Christ. May the Lord Jesus be glorified in you, and you in Him.

I Timothy – faithfulness in Christ, to fight the good fight of the faith. II Timothy – soundness in Christ. Avoid teaching that is not sound in Christ Jesus. Titus – steadfastness in Christ – to give instruction in sound doctrine – to be sound in faith, held firm to the sure Word.

Philemon – goodness that is ours in Christ. Hebrews – exhortation to perfection, better than everything in the Old Testament. Through Christ, the greater and more perfect tabernacle, by His sacrifice has perfected for all time those who are sanctified. James exhorts to wisdom in Christ, ask of God. Show your works in the meekness of wisdom. Wisdom from above is first, pure, then peaceable, gentle, open to reason, full of mercy and good fruits. I Peter exhorts to submission, obedience, to Christ – and only then will you be approved by God. II Peter exhorts to purification in Christ – the righteousness of our God, and our Savior Jesus Christ, Who has granted all things that pertain to life and godliness through the knowledge of Christ.

I John exhorts to communion with Christ – if we walk in the light, as He is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, with God and Christ. Our fellowship is with the Father and with His Son, Jesus Christ. II John exhorts to a continuation in Christ – follow the truth and abide in it. III John exhorts to contribute for Christ – render service to the brethren. Jude exhorts contending for the faith – especially against ungodliness.

Revelation – consummation in Christ.

Let us review:
Anticipation of Christ in the Old Testament founded in the Law.
Preparation made for Him in History (the nation of Israel).
Aspiration for Him expressed in Poetry.
Prediction of Him in Prophecy.
Realization of Him proclaimed in the Gospels.
Evangelization of Him in the Acts.
Application and Interpretation for the believer in the Epistles.
Consummation of all things in Him in Revelation.

Christ, in the Gospels, is portrayed as the Prophet to His people, in Acts and the Epistles as priest for His people, and in Revelation as King over His people.

First, His incarnation (the Gospels), second His exaltation and proclamation (Acts and Epistles), third His eternal glorification (Revelation).

All things were created by Him. (Colossians 1:16.)
In Him all things consist. (Colossians 1:17.)
All things are held together by the Word of His power.
All things will be made new for Him.
All things will be consummated in Him.
All believers in Him will enter eternal salvation.
They will be His people and He will be their Lord.

The Revelation is of Jesus Christ: 1st of His person, 2nd of His possession (the Church) by the shedding of His blood, and 3rd His program of overcoming the world and the establishment of His kingdom among men.
Jesus is the living Word of God. ‘In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God…And the Word was made flesh…’ – John 1:1,14. He is the Word of Life, and of Spirit, and of Truth.
Christ and Scripture have a dual origin. Christ is fully God and fully human. The Bible is inspired by God and written by man, in the words of men. As Christ is Sinless, so the Scriptures are also without error. Both are unchangeable. Both were brought into the world through the nation of Israel.
Both Christ and the Bible are described as faithful and true, as light, bread, power, unto salvation, cleansing, healing, nourishing, liberating, and eternal. To read and study the Bible is to learn of Christ. Knowing Him as Savior is eternal life to all believers.

Amen.

Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/ezine/5643302

Christ – Seeker and Savior

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Christ – Seeker and Savior
Author: T.O.D. Johnston
The greatest reason for the Incarnation – Luke 19:10 – ‘For the Son of man is come to seek and to save that which was lost.’

The other great works were attempted and accomplished for this purpose: the destroyer of death, the victor over satan, the overcoming of the world, the glory above all, the creation of all things new. The saving of the lost was the joy that was set before Him, and He endured the cross, despising the shame.

The prophets spoke of the coming One Who in the fulness of time would be made manifest. Then the Word was made flesh. The Son of man is come to seek and save, now an accomplished fact. He healed the sick, fed thousands, cast out demons, and raised the dead. From Bethlehem to Calvary, we have the record of ‘Immanuel – God with us’.

As Jesus was uniquely born into the family of man, as uniquely coming from heaven, the Son of God.

He still seeks that which was lost. ‘He is able to save to the uttermost them that come unto God by Him, seeing He ever liveth to make intercession for them.’ This is now done through His Spirit and His followers. He said, ‘Lo I am with you always, even to the end of the world.’ Who are these ‘lost’? The shepherd seeks to find the sheep that has wandered away. In a war, the physician turns to those most severely wounded first. The least wounded would be last. Those healthy would not even be considered.

The question: the proud Pharisee, thinking himself perfectly holy, what value will he see in Jesus Who comes to wash away his sins? He doesn’t perceive his blindness. Those that perceive no sin see no need of a Savior. The truth is that all are sinners whether they admit or recognize this. It is only those who are aware of their sin that also recognize their need of the only Savior in Jesus Christ.

The word ‘lost’ brings to mind many dreadful images. Being in a place where you are not familiar, where you know neither which way to go or how you got there. There is a sense of desperation and panic, and a just as desperate search for help. There can also be a loss of hope, and inability to act.

The word ‘lost’, from God’s point of view, describes our condition in relation to Him by our fallen nature. This includes being unaware of what our relationship with God ought to be and what we are responsible to do towards Him in our thoughts and behavior. We are brought up with many rules of right and wrong in relation to ourselves and others, yet with willfulness and selfishness acting contrary to what is right. We not only do wrong, but also purposely don’t do what we should.

Then there are sinful habits that seem to control us and drag us further in the wrong direction. Weaknesses are easily given into. We are lost by our own volition. We have no love for God Who made us, we have no trust in Him, we have no will to follow His plan for us. We do not see the truth, nor what is righteous, nor what leads to heaven. We are completely lost!

To be lost for eternity in outer darkness far from the love and light and forgiveness of the Father and Jesus is torment and anguish unimaginable. There is no hope. The choice was made to reject the salvation in Christ. Only torment and despair remain.

Glory be to God Who from before the foundation of the world had a plan to seek and to save that which was lost. That Jesus came to earth to do. There may be some that are seeking Him, but He was seeking them first. He is the author and finisher of our faith. He is the Alpha and Omega, the beginning and end of the work of grace, mercy, and forgiveness. This from the boundless love of the Father Who sent the Son for this purpose.

To be saved means we have been found by this love and experience the joy and peace it brings. The relationship with the Father and with Jesus is both close and eternal. And while we complete our pilgrimage here, we long for our eternal destination, the home Christ has prepared for us and which He shall one day bring us to. What a glorious promise and just as certain is our hope.

We were lost in the legal sense of having been completely unable to keep God’s law of even having the motivation and ability to try. This condemned us to death. God sent Jesus to take upon Himself the sin of men. As our substitute, He bore the sentence and punishment. He bore the wrath of God so that He could justify those that believe in Jesus. Jesus has taken away the penalty and curse due to sin. We are also saved from the power of satan. The seed of the woman has bruised the serpent’s head (Genesis 3:15). We are saved also from the power of death. The price was paid once for all.

The seeking continues. Deep seated prejudices must be overcome. Many ignore or stay away from where the Gospel is preached. Some consider themselves  too well-off, or too smart to fall for this. Jesus must seek among all classes in spite of their wantonness and self-serving. This is the continuing work of the Holy Spirit. But most find no advantage in the Good News. They have no use for spiritual information. The noise of the world holds their attention.

Those in sickness seek a solution, and those in loss or strife seek a way out. The Holy Spirit works on men’s hearts, to bring them to awareness of their true spiritual condition, that they may become receptive to the Gospel of mercy and saving grace. The Gospel is offered as a release from captivity, a freedom to have peace and joy and hope for heaven and eternity. This work of the Holy Spirit to convict and draw the heart to faith, trust, and a relationship of love with Christ.

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God’s Plan – Time and Eternity

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God’s Plan – Time and Eternity
Author: T.O.D. Johnston
Organized Complexity.

There is no recorded example of any organism evolving into a more highly organized state of complexity. There also is no recorded example of the same ‘macro-evolution’ in the billions of fossils in the earth’s crust. They cannot explain the complexity of the human brain.

The second law of thermodynamics is observed universally: all natural processes to decrease complexity in the universe. This is called increasing entropy. This is experienced by everyone as they continue to age and finally die. This includes the sun and the earth and all life.

No one has actually observed ‘good’ mutations. Mutations are breakdowns in a system, downward lessening in complexity, usually resulting in destruction. No more than 1 out of 1,000 mutations are possibly beneficial. Evolution by mutation and natural selection is mathematically impossible.
Read Isaiah 40:26.

Only recently do we begin to understand the complexity of the human brain. Evolution cannot account for its development. The human brain generates consciousness, complex thought processes, and the ability to communicate with others.  Human language is unique with no evolutionary explanation. It is a special gift of God to the first man and woman, so they could communicate with each other and God. The original language families were also supernaturally given by God, to stop the rebellion against Him at the Tower of Babel. They all had the basic mental skills to learn to write in their new languages. Most likely the earliest began in Sumeria, Assyria, all the fertile crescent.

Cuneiform (wedge-shaped figures) on at least 500,000 clay tablets have been uncovered. They include every category of life: accounts, receipts, lessons, litigation, essays, erotica, math, epics. Reading and writing appeared fully developed in complex forms in each community. The highest form of animal life – apes or chimpanzees will never be able to speak. Our vocal apparatus is unique to man. No human community has ever been found that did not have a language. In the beginning was the Word, all things were created by that Word, and Adam and Eve were created to communicate with that Word.

The dispersion at Babel probably represented about 70 basic languages, from the 70 ancestral tribes listed in the Table of Nations. Many others were developed over time (5,000 year time lapse) to now include 6,000 languages today.

God gave us the gift to reveal His Word to us, and can respond in faith and praise Him. Read Exodus 4:11,12.

God’s Plan and Eternity.

God said, ‘My Spirit shall not always strive with man’ (Genesis 6:3.) God is longsuffering towards us, not willing that any should perish (II Peter 3:9). Even this free gift of God must be accepted before it can be possessed. Most people will either neglect or even refuse to accept that gift. ‘For if ye believe not that I am He, ye shall die in your sins.’ (John 8:24.) ‘And he is the propitiation for our sins: and not for ours only, but also for the sins of the whole world.’ (I John 2:2.)

The Lake of Fire.

In modern times, many don’t believe in an ultimate destination for the wicked, the hell Jesus talked about. ‘Then shall he say also unto them on the left hand, Depart from me, ye cursed, into everlasting fire, prepared for the devil and his angels: And these shall go away into everlasting punishment: but the righteous into life eternal.’ (Matthew 25:41-46.) ‘And death and hell were cast into the lake of fire. This is the second death. And whosoever was not found written in the book of life was cast into the lake of fire.’ (Revelation 20:14,15.) ‘He that overcometh shall inherit all things; and I will be his God, and he shall be my son. But the fearful, and unbelieving, and the abominable, and murderers, and whoremongers, and sorcerers, and idolaters, and all liars, shall have their part in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone: which is the second death.’ (Revelation 21:7,8.)

Paul said, ‘there is none that doeth good, no not one’ (Romans 3:12). Jesus said in Mark 10:18 – ‘…there is none good but one, that is, God.’ Jesus said in Matthew 7:13,14 – ‘Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat: because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it.’

According to a recent survey, 39% of Americans do not believe in any religion or hell (approximately 111 million). In Europe the percentages are even greater. All these people will die in their sins. Also, the billions of people that believe and follow other religions – no matter how ethical their behavior, they remain lost.

‘Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved.’ (Acts 4:12.) ‘Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.’ (John 14:6.) ‘He that believeth on him is not condemned: but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God.’ (John 3:18.)

There are those that profess Christ who will be sent to hell. They will have knowledge of some part, but not true faith, no true relationship with Christ. ‘Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works? And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity.’ (Matthew 7:22,23.)

The true believer accepts the truth of their own sin and does not boast of their own deeds.

Read Romans 3:21-31. Righteousness through Faith.

Proverbs 14:12 states, ‘There is a way which seemeth right unto a man; but the end thereof are the ways of death.’ Only Jesus defeated our greatest enemy and penalty – death. Those that do not accept Him call Him a liar. They either believe in another way or believe that this life is all there is.

Though most people do not act upon the light they have, the evidence of creation, the witness of conscience, or what truth may be found in their religion, how they act upon the light they have will determine the eternal destination. Therefore, they will be without excuse. ‘He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life: and he that believeth not the Son shall not see life; but the wrath of God abideth on him.’ (John 3:36.)

The Eternal City for the redeemed, the holy city, new Jerusalem to come down from God out of heaven. This was the place that Jesus went to prepare, that where He is, we will be also. Abraham ‘for he looked for a city which hath foundations, whose builder and maker is God.’ (Hebrews 11:10.) It will be the paradise of Eden made anew. Not a single tree of life like in Eden, but many such trees lining the banks of a great river flowing from the throne of the Lamb. ‘And he showed me a pure river of water of life, clear as crystal, proceeding out of the throne of God and of the Lamb. In the midst of the street of it, and on either side of the river, was there the tree of life, which bare twelve manner of fruits, and yielded her fruit every month: and the leaves of the tree were for the healing of the nations.’ (Revelation 22:1,2).

It will be about 1,500 miles wide, long, and high. The streets are of pure transparent gold, like pure glass. Streets will be vertical and horizontal. Just as God gave the first man work to do in Eden, so also will we have work to do in the new one. As Adam had dominion over the earth, so the dominion mandate may be increased to include the entire created universe. To travel to distant stars and planets, to study, and write books, to be added to God’s library for others to use. We could read those of others also.

‘O the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! how unsearchable are his judgments, and his ways past finding out!’ (Romans 11:33.) It will be eternal learning. Our awe and love and devotion to Him will also continue to increase. The work and responsibility will be according to our work and faithfulness here on earth. Luke 12:43 talks about the servant being blessed for being faithful in Christ’s service when He comes.

‘And there shall in no wise enter into it any thing that defileth, neither whatsoever worketh abomination, or maketh a lie: but they which are written in the Lamb’s book of life.’ (Revelation 21:27.) ‘And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away.’ (Revelation 21:4.) ‘For, behold, I create new heavens and a new earth: and the former shall not be remembered, nor come into mind.’ (Isaiah 65:17.) Seeing and sharing our own experiences with loved ones, and seeing and sharing in theirs. Also, to meet and talk with all of the famous Bible characters, as well as saints from all the ages. What a fellowship!

Paul refers to ages to come twice: ‘That in the ages to come he might show the exceeding riches of his grace, in his kindness toward us, through Christ Jesus.’ (Ephesians 2:7.) ‘Unto him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus throughout all ages, world without end. Amen.’ (Ephesians 3:21.)

The Millennium is one of those ‘ages.’ What the other ‘ages’ will be like is not mentioned. Some choose to speculate. All speculations will be wrong. In the meantime, according to I John 2:28 – ‘And now, little children, abide in him; that, when he shall appear, we may have confidence, and not be ashamed before him at his coming.’ To abide means to remain or continue as branches in the true vine.

In the parable Jesus left His servants to ‘occupy til I come.’ They were to carry on His business profitably, and follow His instructions faithfully. The far country was His return to heaven as with the parable of the talents. The time gone was long. The servants were to use the talents profitably.

This includes taking care of family, job, and spiritual things in witnessing, church work, etc. Whatever we have been given to do, we must do it ‘heartily, as unto the Lord’ (Colossians 3:23).

‘His lord said unto him, Well done, thou good and faithful servant: thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy lord.’ (Matthew 25:21.) Faithfulness in our work for Christ will be rewarded and lead to a similar assignment in the future age. Faithful work over a few things becomes work over many things. In the future age – rewards and service.

There will no longer be any need of those occupations related to sin or illness. There will be no war or crime, no illness, and no lawsuits. Therefore no soldiers, police, lawyers, doctors, or nurses. All building, communications experts, scientists, teachers, will have meaningful tasks.

We have the dominion mandate, and the missionary mandate. ‘Whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God.’ (I Corinthians 10:31.) We should be studying His Word and His World. Science, technology, and education. We also must ‘preach the Gospel to every creature’ (Matthew 16:15).

We need to still think beyond our own little situation and see some part of God’s great plan for all the saints in the ages to come. We need to see and understand things from God’s point of view. His plans continue far, far beyond our small perspective of our own lives into the ages to come, the eternity of His making.

Be ready – even so, come Lord Jesus. Amen.

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Bible Study Lesson on the Spirit’s Guidance

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Bible Study Lesson on the Spirit’s Guidance
Author: T.O.D. Johnston
The Holy Spirit’s role is to guide the believer in the light of God’s truth (the Bible) to accomplish His will. The Spirit is not going to reveal God’s will to you so that you can make a choice as to whether you are willing to follow it or not. The Holy Spirit only leads those already willing to follow.

If you sign up for a tour and then decide not to follow the guide, you want to make your own tour. You are likely to get lost and the guide cannot help you. If you want guidance, you must be willing to follow the guide. In Revelation, Jesus says several times, ‘He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit is saying to the church.’

God speaks to His people through His word. It reveals His will for us. God also speaks to us through the witness of the Holy Spirit within.

Read Romans 8:16,17.

If your life consists of fulfilling the needs and desires of your body, you have no way to hear the Spirit’s voice. The body is so defective because of sin that it will not make the trip to heaven. It will be transformed into a new one. We must be spiritual. We must listen to our enlightened conscience – which bears witness in the Holy Spirit. We must not be distracted by the loudness of the world around us.

Read Romans 9:1,2.

Read II Peter 1:20,21. The Holy Spirit will never contradict the Word that He inspired.

The Holy Spirit will communicate to your spirit how to implement God’s truth in your life. The Word gives revelation, and the Spirit gives confirmation.

The will of God – He does not need to explain everything He does, just as parents don’t. We couldn’t comprehend much of it, just as children couldn’t.

God’s moral will has been given to man through Scripture. This He wants us to know. His will for each individual is where the Holy Spirit comes in.

We must accept the things that happen which we don’t understand. We see only a tiny part of the total picture that God is working on. We must learn to try to do as much of His will revealed in His Word. This is our guidebook to grow and mature as believers. The Holy Spirit is our personal guide that confirms to our spirit that we are within God’s will.

How is your spiritual life? Do you spend time in God’s Word every day? Do you consistently pray for yourself and others? Are you able to avoid distractions and temptations? Do you watch for opportunities to help others, to share your faith?

We make choices every day. We must practice making the best choices and we will get better at it. Then it comes more naturally and becomes a habit. Our choice will become automatic. We will choose the right way without having to think about it. This is putting on the mind of Christ. We then begin to experience the freedom to love and give and the joy it brings.

The Holy Spirit within will bless our efforts. The Spirit also  gives us guidance and strength and assurance that we are truly following the path of Jesus as His ambassadors and servants in this lost and dying world. This brings glory to Jesus, and to Our Heavenly Father.

All this is truly the greatest mission of the Spirit. The Spirit reveals Christ to us, empowers us to reveal Christ to the world, to the eternal Glory of God – Who before the foundation of the world purposed to save us from the sin that He foreknew, through the perfect life and sacrificial death of His Son for us. Our lives should show our gratitude and love for His grace and mercy toward us who could never earn it or deserve it. Thankful obedience and the desire to please Him and become like His Son is our highest calling.

Through His Spirit, He also equips us to do His will. All we must do is step out in faith and continue on our journey that for whatever time we have here, leads to our eternal destination to be with Him in eternity.

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Is the Rapture a Biblical Teaching?

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Is the Rapture a Biblical Teaching?
Author: Mark Wells
Many Christians today believe in a “rapture” that will take place before the great tribulation begins.  They believe that Jesus will return in secret and “rapture” away the church and take them to heaven.  It is believed this world will continue and a great triublation will engulf the world.  But the church will not be here to experience it.  Is this rapture teaching truth, or just another man made theory that is false?
There is one passage of scripture that reveals this rapture teaching to be false.  And the reason that it is so important to find out the truth about this is because those who believe in the rapture, think they are going to be taken away before the great tribulation comes.  And what will happen?  They will not be prepared for the tribulation when it hits and they find themselves right in the middle of it.  Yet those of us who do not believe in the rapture, are preparing to stand in the time of tribulation.  We are preparing our hearts and minds in Christ Jesus so that we will not fall.  But those who are not prepared for it, will find it very difficult.
So let’s look at this passage of scripture that shows the rapture teaching to be false.  We find this passage in Matthew 13.  Here Jesus is telling the parable of the wheat and tares.  The wheat are the saved one’s and the tares are the wicked.  And in this parable Jesus says that the wheat and the tares are going to grow together until the harvest.  So this means that the church and the wicked will remain together on this earth until the harvest time. 
But when is the harvest?  The very same chapter (Matthew 13) gives us the answer.  In verses 38-40, Jesus tells us that the harvest is at the end of the world.  So what does this mean?  It means that the church and the wicked will remain on earth together until the end of the world.  This proves the rapture teaching to be false, because those who hold to this teaching believe that the church will be taken away BEFORE the end of the world.  And yet, Jesus here clearly shows us that both the church and the wicked REMAIN together on earth until the end.  The end of the world being at the physical second coming of Christ Jesus.
Now there is no way to twist these words to suit the rapture teaching, because the rapture teaches that life on this earth continues when the church is taken away to heaven by Jesus.  This totally contradicts what Christ said, that when the church is taken, it will be at the end of the world and life will NOT continue.  It would not be called the “end of the world” if life continued after it.
The rapture teaching is a man made teaching and is not supported by the Bible whatsoever.  The word “rapture” is not even found in the Bible, but is adapted from the words “caught up” in 1 Thessalonians 4.  These words “caught up” are in relation to the physical second coming of Christ, and not some secret return.
There is only one second coming of Jesus, and when He does return this world as we know it will come to an end.

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