The Trinity
1 Timothy 3:16
"And without controversy great is the mystery of godliness: God was manifest in the flesh, justified in the Spirit, seen of angels, preached unto the Gentiles, believed on in the world, received up into glory."
One of the hardest to understand and confusing doctrines in the bible is the doctrine of the Trinity. Although it is not specifically mentioned as the word "Trinity", it is implied throughout scripture. The word Trinity is a theological word that is used to describe the Godhead. The word Trinity is from the Latin word Trinitas which means a triad or number three. Just as the word bible is not specifically mentioned in the bible, it still exists. The Trinity is found from Genesis to Revelation and is implicit truth that is found throughout the scriptures. The word rapture is not directly stated in the bible but it is from the Latin word rapio which means “to snatch away” from 1 Thessalonians 4:17.
The word Godhead is found in the scriptures three times: Acts 17:29, Romans 1:20 and Colossians 2:9. But there are many more references to the Godhead found throughout the bible.
In the bible there are two kinds of doctrines; explicit and implicit. Explicit doctrines come from explicit truths that are shown in verses and are fully revealed in the text. These truths are direct and leave no question about the meaning. Implicit doctrine comes from implicit truths that are implied through the text, though not specifically expressed. Although implicit truths leave no doubt as to the meaning of or the subject in question. Implicit doctrine is not formed by one verse, but by many verses independent of each other throughout the entire bible that clearly show the nature of the doctrine. As long as it doesn’t contradict explicit truth or doctrine, then it can be accepted as implicit truth. The Doctrine of the Trinity is implicit doctrine that fully explains the explicit doctrine of One God.
The teaching of the Trinity is not a new teaching, it has been around since the second century. The first recorded use of this Greek word in Christian theology (though not about the Divine Trinity) was by Theophilus of Antioch in about 170. He wrote:
"In like manner also the three days which were before the luminaries, are types of the Trinity, of God, and His Word, and His wisdom. And the fourth is the type of man, who needs light, that so there may be God, the Word, wisdom, man."
Tertullian, a Latin theologian who wrote in the early 3rd century, is credited with using the words "Trinity", "person" and "substance" to explain that the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit are "one in essence—not one in Person".
About a century later, in 325, the First Council of Nicaea established the doctrine of the Trinity as orthodoxy and adopted the Nicene Creed, which described Christ as "God of God, Light of Light, very God of very God, begotten, not made, being of one substance with the Father".
The Doctrine of the Trinity is an essential doctrine for Christians. And although it is essential, it is the greatest mystery in the scriptures. God has revealed to us who He is in the form of three distinct personages that form one God. The Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit, in unity form the eternal Godhead. Although they are all three God and all three share the exact same characteristics, nature and attributes; they are each distinct in their roles. The name Godhead is referred to times throughout the bible and is the fullness of God which consists of the personages which serve different roles within the Godhead. Each person of the Godhead is able to work independently of each other in their roles, but do not exist or act independently apart from each other.
Each person of the Godhead has been active since creation and has remained active through the scriptures. Each has been active in God's dealings with man throughout man's history. In Genesis 1:1 In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth. The Hebrew word for God is plural intensive in this sentence but implies a singular meaning, as in one consisting of more than one. The scriptures never refer to the Father, Son and Holy Spirit as separate gods.
In Genesis 1:2 we also see that the Spirit of God was active in the role of creation. " And the earth was without form, and void; and darkness was upon the face of the deep. And the Spirit of God moved upon the face of the waters." Further in Genesis 1 in verse 26 "And God said , Let us make man in our image, after our likeness:" God is still in the plural form as before and is speaking as plural.
Throughout the OT we can see the Trinity as God is active in peoples lives. Genesis 11:7-8 "Go to, let us go down, and there confound their language, that they may not understand one another's speech. So the LORD scattered them abroad from thence upon the face of all the earth: and they left off to build the city."
Isaiah 48:16-17 "Come ye near unto me, hear ye this; I have not spoken in secret from the beginning; from the time that it was, there am I: and now the Lord GOD, and his Spirit, hath sent me. Thus saith the LORD, thy Redeemer, the Holy One of Israel; I am the LORD thy God which teacheth thee to profit, which leadeth thee by the way that thou shouldest go."
Isaiah 44:24 "Thus saith the LORD, thy redeemer, and he that formed thee from the womb, I am the LORD that maketh all things; that stretcheth forth the heavens alone; that spreadeth abroad the earth by myself."
Throughout the new testament the Triune God is even more established through the words of Jesus and through the New Testament writers.
John 1:1, 14 "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. The same was in the beginning with God. All things were made by him; and without him was not any thing made that was made“. And in John 1:14 “And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth. John bare witness of him, and cried, saying, This was he of whom I spake, He that cometh after me is preferred before me: for he was before me."
1 John 4:1-3 "Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world. Hereby know ye the Spirit of God: Every spirit that confesseth that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is of God: And every spirit that confesseth not that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is not of God: and this is that spirit of antichrist, whereof ye have heard that it should come; and even now already is it in the world."
Matt 3:16-17, 28:19
Luke 1:35
John 3:6-16; 14:16-17,23-26
Acts 2:32-33, 5:29-32
1Cor 12:4-7
2Cor 1:21-22
Eph 1:1-14, 4:4-6
1Thes 1:2-5
1Peter 1:2
Jude 20-21
It is possible to come to an understanding of the teaching of the Trinity if we accept the word of God as truth, although we may never understand completely the complexities of the Triune Godhead. Our understanding can only come through an acceptance of the scriptures and what is written. Many things God has left as a mystery for us. Many things we believe and know to be true we will never be able to comprehend fully, because we have enough trouble understanding the things in this world.
Wednesday, October 24, 2012
Wednesday, October 10, 2012
The Importance of the Bible
The Importance of the Bible
16 All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for
correction, for instruction in righteousness: 17 That the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly
furnished unto all good works.
Concerning the presence of scripture in these verses we can conclude that ALL scripture, old and new Testaments have been given by the inspiration of God to men through the Holy Spirit. Men wrote according to that which was revealed to them by God. These writings have been compiled into what we now have as the Holy Bible. A total of 66 books, 39 OT and 27 NT is the revealed word of God to His creation.
Lets look at this verse closely:
All scripture is profitable for doctrine. Which is to say that it is beneficial for instructional teaching. Doctrine is a body of principles in a system of belief. These principles are founded upon scripture and sets the foundation for our beliefs as Southern Baptists. These are recorded as the Baptist Faith and Message. This foundation is based on the fact that the scriptures are true and correct.
All scripture is profitable for reproof and correction, which is not always criticism for a fault or a
rebuke; it can be instruction as a form of correction. This is not meant to be a verse dedicated to a harsh judgment of people and a sharp criticism, but is meant to be provided in a kind way in the spirit of meekness to an erring brother or sister either knowingly or unknowingly. The need of
correction doesn't always fall to people that are erring through a disregard of scripture, but also
those that have an ignorance of scripture. Many people that follow other beliefs can fall within this area also. Many times it is from a lack of understanding who Jesus was. For them it is the Gospel they need to hear, not a lecture on doctrine or condemnation.
And also for instruction in righteousness. In this verse instruction means the training and
education, for the development of mind and morals through doctrine and tenets and also through
reproof and correction. This verse sums up pretty well what scripture is used for; knowing what to believe, knowing how to act in that belief, and why you are to believe it and apply it to your everyday life. In verse 17 we are given the reason why. It is so that the man of God can be complete or fitted, and according to the Strong’s it references to special aptitude for given uses, which would be unto good works. These good works only come through the working of the Holy Spirit through us and this comes through maturity and maturity comes through not only the knowledge of the word of God, but by allowing the Spirit to work in us.
2 Timothy 1:13-14 13 Hold fast the form of sound words, which thou hast heard of me, in faith and love which is in Christ Jesus. 14 That good thing which was committed unto thee keep by the Holy Ghost which dwelleth in us.
Hebrews 1:1-2 1 God, who at sundry times and in divers manners spake in time past unto the
fathers by the prophets, 2 Hath in these last days spoken unto us by his Son, whom he hath
appointed heir of all things, by whom also he made the worlds;
The Bible that we have is not only a book of history or a book of wisdom, it is a spiritual book that contains the very words of the living God. It is a precious gift that is second only to the Triune God Himself. It contains in its pages the revelation of God to us, first through the prophets and then through His Son. Through the bible we have the very words from the mouth of God to His creation. The lives of people throughout the OT are laid open before us and we see their
relationship with God and how God dealt with them as individuals and as a people. We see God's character and nature in these dealings as He has revealed His plans for them and for us. Through the NT we have God's revelation of His Son and His plans for us given through Jesus and then the NT writers.
The focus of the bible from Genesis to revelation is not about man, is not about Israel or about
believers. Although they are in the pages and recorded for us to see. It is about God, It is God
revealing Himself to people through the ages. It is about who He is, what He wants and what He
expects. God has revealed Himself as a triune God, reveals to us God the Father, God the Son
and God the Holy Spirit. These three with separate personages are explained in the pages of our
bibles. Each revealed to man in their fullness and how They have worked throughout time in the
lives of man. In the NT God has revealed His Son to us and His plan of Salvation, it is focused
upon Him alone and through Him is God's will for mankind. Look at Paul’s testimony, it’s no
focused on Him but how God has used him.
2 Peter 1:20-21 20 Knowing this first, that no prophecy of the scripture is of any private
interpretation. 21 For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God
spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost.
The study of the scriptures is one of most important things you can do as a Christian. The benefits it provides are tremendous. By studying the word you develop knowledge. you develop maturity as a Christian and you develop a closer relationship with God. You also have a responsibility as a Christian to make sure that what you accept, lines up with scripture. This can never be stressed enough over the course of your studies. You are ultimately responsible for what you accept as truth. Since the bible is accessible to everyone there is no reason not to have one available to study from. There is no reason not to have one in order to follow along during a sermon or bible study. There is nothing wrong with checking the scriptures in context with a preacher or a teacher, you should feel encouraged to research for yourself the text used. Not just to know what was said lines up with scripture but also to gain a deeper understanding of the study or the sermon. It is your responsibility and you will be held accountable for what you believe. The Bereans did just that with Paul. Paul was preaching Jesus and they checked the only scriptures they had, the OT (Acts 17:11). As pastors, preachers and teachers there is a great responsibility to expound upon the scriptures without error. They are held at a higher account for what they preach and teach (James 3:1). Even so it is up to you to know the scriptures for your own sake.
2 Peter 2:15 Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be
ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.
1 Thessalonians 5:21 Prove all things; hold fast that which is good.
The doctrines of human infallibility, implicit faith, and blind obedience, are not the doctrines of the Bible. Every Christian has and ought to have, the judgment of discretion, and should have his senses exercised in discerning between good and evil, truth and falsehood, Hebrews 5:13-14
And proving all things must be in order to holding fast that which is good. We must not always be
seekers, or fluctuating in our minds, like children tossed to and fro with every wind of doctrine.
2 Timothy 4:3 For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears; 1 Corinthians 10:15 I speak as to wise men; judge ye what I say .
1 Corinthians 6:3 Know ye not that we shall judge angels? how much more things that pertain to
this life?
Ephesians 5:8 6 Let no man deceive you with vain words: for because of these things cometh
the wrath of God upon the children of disobedience. 7 Be not ye therefore partakers with them. 8
For ye were sometimes darkness, but now are ye light in the Lord: walk as children of light: 9 (For the fruit of the Spirit is in all goodness and righteousness and truth;) 10 Proving what is
acceptable unto the Lord.
What is acceptable to the Lord? What does God have to approve? His word. We have His word
written in the form of the bible, our most sacred and holy treasure. In order to find ourselves
acceptable we must conform to the word. Not just in our minds but in our hearts. We should try to bring our character, nature and being into submission to what is written in the word, But as with Paul I believe it will be impossible to attain. We must protect ourselves and cling to sound
doctrine. Sound doctrine that comes from the scriptures. Sound teaching that comes from the
word and not ideas of men.
The Importance of Bible Study
The Importance of Bible Study
2 Timothy 2:15 Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.
In Paul's second letter to Timothy, while he was in Ephesus. Paul exhorts Timothy to study, a workman grounded in the truth of the word of God not ashamed of that truth, and to teach the truth without error. Notice Paul doesn't say "Study to be approved unto God" He tells him to study to show thyself approved unto God. It is active, not the act of study but the act of obedience in spreading the truth from the word of God. Not only did Timothy's study benefit him, it benefited the church and it benefited the unbelievers. Our study benefits us individually, benefits the church corporately and can benefit unbelievers eternally.
Study is a very important part of maturity and spiritual growth. Through study we receive knowledge, and through study we receive insights as to who God is and how He operates.
We can listen to our pastors, preachers and teachers and glean some knowledge, but it is always better when we get it first hand from the word of God. Through study we learn the truths that are important for salvation, sanctification, and our future glorification. We learn to discern the truths from the lies around us. We learn when to rebuke and how, we learn when to correct and we receive our instructions for righteous living.
Paul also tells Timothy what to avoid. 16 But shun profane and vain babblings: for they will increase unto more ungodliness. I love to use the word profane because it means secular or worldly. Like Timothy we must avoid these things, the things of the world has no part in our spiritual understanding and study of the bible. We have seen the corruption of the church through compromise trying to bring the church to a worldly level, and we have seen ungodliness running rampant through the churches. Paul called it a canker, an erosive and spreading sore, and then he named names and what they said.
As believers and members of the body of Christ we are all ministers of the Gospel. We are workmen that have a particular job to do. To be able to do that job we have to know the truth without error. We have to know the word of God apart from the propane babblings because they corrupt the Gospel of Christ. How do you know who is spouting these corruptions. Anyone who's words and teachings do not line up with the written word.
I mentioned before that through study we gain knowledge. Knowledge in itself does not cause maturity and spiritual growth. Study is the beginning of maturity, just as the fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge. Many people are full of knowledge and still are far from being pleasing to God. This is because God looks upon the heart. Many people have knowledge and still refuse the truth.
What pleases God is when knowledge is applied. When you, after receiving the knowledge that can be gained through God's word, make that knowledge active in your life. Then is God pleased. I can know that God wants me to be faithful, but I can only please God by applying His word and being faithful.
James 1:22-25 22 But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves. 23 For if any be a hearer of the word, and not a doer, he is like unto a man beholding his natural face in a glass: 24 For he beholdeth himself, and goeth his way , and straightway forgetteth what manner of man he was . 25 But 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 shall be blessed in his deed.
Romans 2:13 For not the hearers of the law are just before God, but the doers of the law shall be justified .
Luke 11:28 But he said , Yea rather, blessed are they that hear the word of God, and keep it.
John 14:23 Jesus answered and said unto him, If a man love me, he will keep my words: and my Father will love him, and we will come unto him, and make our abode with him.
1 John 2:3-6 3 And hereby we do know that we know him, if we keep his commandments. 4 He that saith , I know him, and keepeth not his commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him. 5 But whoso keepeth his word, in him verily is the love of God perfected : hereby know we that we are in him. 6 He that saith he abideth in him ought himself also so to walk , even as he walked.
One thing that people confuse is reading and study. Most people can read through the bible in a very short period, for many just a few days or a couple of weeks. But a serious study can take days for just a couple of verses. There are many courses that can take you through the bible in a year, but these are for reading not for study. Study involves the verses chosen or a particular topic, prayer and tracing references through many other verses throughout the bible to gain insight for the verses you are studying. Serious personal bible study takes commitment, faithfulness and time. I study at night and many times just read in the mornings. Many times my studies are on specific topics. Some people find it better to study in the mornings. Studying topics or studying for lessons.
Classes such as this one are designed not only for learning but to encourage study, for both the members and the teachers. Questions bring about study for all involved, for answers and for checking the answers.
There are many resources available as bible study aids. These we have to be careful about because a commentary or writing, when it doesn't pertain to sound denominational doctrine, is one mans opinion or interpretation of the scriptures. In the links page of our church website is good study and informational links which are Baptist in nature, all of them checked for content.
What is suitable for you depends on your personal preferences and maturity. I use mainly the Strong's Concordance and the Matthew Henry's Commentary as well as the bible. But I also have access to many other works such as Jewish History Books, Greek and Hebrew Lexicons. I also have dictionaries and encyclopedias, papers written by Southern Baptist Scholars and books that cover Theology. Many of the study materials that I use can be found on the website.
Many times we purchase bibles that have study guides in them or study bibles. They can be beneficial, depending on who wrote the study notes for the bible. Interpretations and opinions change from one person to another depending on their beliefs and denominations. It is best to check the person out before purchasing either by an internet search or by asking someone familiar with their beliefs. Probably the best aid for study is to use a bible with a center reference. Using it can keep you studying and referencing one verse for hours.
Study should be beneficial but we must remember that with all the study we can do, with all the knowledge we can gain. Our main goal is to bring the Gospel of Christ to a lost and dying world. That takes simplicity, it takes the basic message of Jesus crucified, buried and resurrected.
2 Timothy 2:15 Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.
In Paul's second letter to Timothy, while he was in Ephesus. Paul exhorts Timothy to study, a workman grounded in the truth of the word of God not ashamed of that truth, and to teach the truth without error. Notice Paul doesn't say "Study to be approved unto God" He tells him to study to show thyself approved unto God. It is active, not the act of study but the act of obedience in spreading the truth from the word of God. Not only did Timothy's study benefit him, it benefited the church and it benefited the unbelievers. Our study benefits us individually, benefits the church corporately and can benefit unbelievers eternally.
Study is a very important part of maturity and spiritual growth. Through study we receive knowledge, and through study we receive insights as to who God is and how He operates.
We can listen to our pastors, preachers and teachers and glean some knowledge, but it is always better when we get it first hand from the word of God. Through study we learn the truths that are important for salvation, sanctification, and our future glorification. We learn to discern the truths from the lies around us. We learn when to rebuke and how, we learn when to correct and we receive our instructions for righteous living.
Paul also tells Timothy what to avoid. 16 But shun profane and vain babblings: for they will increase unto more ungodliness. I love to use the word profane because it means secular or worldly. Like Timothy we must avoid these things, the things of the world has no part in our spiritual understanding and study of the bible. We have seen the corruption of the church through compromise trying to bring the church to a worldly level, and we have seen ungodliness running rampant through the churches. Paul called it a canker, an erosive and spreading sore, and then he named names and what they said.
As believers and members of the body of Christ we are all ministers of the Gospel. We are workmen that have a particular job to do. To be able to do that job we have to know the truth without error. We have to know the word of God apart from the propane babblings because they corrupt the Gospel of Christ. How do you know who is spouting these corruptions. Anyone who's words and teachings do not line up with the written word.
I mentioned before that through study we gain knowledge. Knowledge in itself does not cause maturity and spiritual growth. Study is the beginning of maturity, just as the fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge. Many people are full of knowledge and still are far from being pleasing to God. This is because God looks upon the heart. Many people have knowledge and still refuse the truth.
What pleases God is when knowledge is applied. When you, after receiving the knowledge that can be gained through God's word, make that knowledge active in your life. Then is God pleased. I can know that God wants me to be faithful, but I can only please God by applying His word and being faithful.
James 1:22-25 22 But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves. 23 For if any be a hearer of the word, and not a doer, he is like unto a man beholding his natural face in a glass: 24 For he beholdeth himself, and goeth his way , and straightway forgetteth what manner of man he was . 25 But 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 shall be blessed in his deed.
Romans 2:13 For not the hearers of the law are just before God, but the doers of the law shall be justified .
Luke 11:28 But he said , Yea rather, blessed are they that hear the word of God, and keep it.
John 14:23 Jesus answered and said unto him, If a man love me, he will keep my words: and my Father will love him, and we will come unto him, and make our abode with him.
1 John 2:3-6 3 And hereby we do know that we know him, if we keep his commandments. 4 He that saith , I know him, and keepeth not his commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him. 5 But whoso keepeth his word, in him verily is the love of God perfected : hereby know we that we are in him. 6 He that saith he abideth in him ought himself also so to walk , even as he walked.
One thing that people confuse is reading and study. Most people can read through the bible in a very short period, for many just a few days or a couple of weeks. But a serious study can take days for just a couple of verses. There are many courses that can take you through the bible in a year, but these are for reading not for study. Study involves the verses chosen or a particular topic, prayer and tracing references through many other verses throughout the bible to gain insight for the verses you are studying. Serious personal bible study takes commitment, faithfulness and time. I study at night and many times just read in the mornings. Many times my studies are on specific topics. Some people find it better to study in the mornings. Studying topics or studying for lessons.
Classes such as this one are designed not only for learning but to encourage study, for both the members and the teachers. Questions bring about study for all involved, for answers and for checking the answers.
There are many resources available as bible study aids. These we have to be careful about because a commentary or writing, when it doesn't pertain to sound denominational doctrine, is one mans opinion or interpretation of the scriptures. In the links page of our church website is good study and informational links which are Baptist in nature, all of them checked for content.
What is suitable for you depends on your personal preferences and maturity. I use mainly the Strong's Concordance and the Matthew Henry's Commentary as well as the bible. But I also have access to many other works such as Jewish History Books, Greek and Hebrew Lexicons. I also have dictionaries and encyclopedias, papers written by Southern Baptist Scholars and books that cover Theology. Many of the study materials that I use can be found on the website.
Many times we purchase bibles that have study guides in them or study bibles. They can be beneficial, depending on who wrote the study notes for the bible. Interpretations and opinions change from one person to another depending on their beliefs and denominations. It is best to check the person out before purchasing either by an internet search or by asking someone familiar with their beliefs. Probably the best aid for study is to use a bible with a center reference. Using it can keep you studying and referencing one verse for hours.
Study should be beneficial but we must remember that with all the study we can do, with all the knowledge we can gain. Our main goal is to bring the Gospel of Christ to a lost and dying world. That takes simplicity, it takes the basic message of Jesus crucified, buried and resurrected.
Tribulation Saints
Tribulation Saints
Will people able to be saved after the rapture and during the tribulation?
The book of Revelation can be a confusing book for many people to understand. It deals with future events that were shown to John in a vision. These events are not figurative but a literal text of what will transpire at the end of times.
Today there are many prophecy type teachers and preachers that try to explain what revelation really means. We have heard twisted words, added ideas and reading between the lines to try fit scriptures into their ideas and teach their interpretation. Arguing that it is a symbolic language that is open to interpretation according to the times that we live in, they fit the most bizarre ideas into their teachings. Although I do not doubt that in the tribulation period that there will be helicopters and tanks, because on many fronts it will be man against man. Although this paper only covers one specific point, from a scriptural point of view, it doesn't fit with some of the popular teachers or denominations.
I was asked the question above during a class and felt that it would be good to comment on it here. "Will people be able to be saved after the rapture and during the tribulation?"
From my understanding through study of the scriptures; yes, some will become believers after the rapture during the tribulation.
Many people now have a basic understanding of what salvation is. Salvation is the deliverance from the power and penalty of sin. According to scripture one of the things that we are saved from is God's wrath.
Romans 5:8-10
8 But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. 9 Much more then, being now justified by his blood, we shall be saved from wrath through him. 10 For if, when we were enemies, we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son, much more, being reconciled, we shall be saved by his life.
We have heard and quoted Romans 5:8 many times but the next two verses shows what the blood of Christ has done. It has reconciled us with God and saved us from His wrath. God's wrath is not only recognized now but will also be poured out upon the world after the rapture comes, and is shown clearly throughout the OT. The beginning of getting right with God has always been and will begin with belief, you must believe.
Now, there is a difference between the time before Christ, Now and after the rapture comes. In the OT times people believed in God and were saved from many perils because of that belief. They believed the words of the Prophets and had the Law that was given through Moses. Many people believed because of evidence seen and testified of. It is easy to believe when confronted with great evidence these people were blessed with the presence of God and His benefits.
In this time that we live in we have an even greater blessing. We live after the death, burial and resurrection of Christ. We believe without seeing and serve God through very little evidence. Jesus said that we were more blessed than those that see and believe. Our salvation includes; not just having complete justification through Christ Jesus and His sacrifice, but we are also indwelled with the Holy Spirit until the day of redemption. He leads us into understanding, truth, and testifies of Jesus. Through the Spirit we are sealed until that day when Jesus calls us to come to Him.
2 Thessalonians 2:3-10
3 Let no man deceive you by any means: for that day shall not come, except there come a falling away first, and that man of sin be revealed , the son of perdition; 4 Who opposeth and exalteth himself above all that is called God, or that is worshipped; so that he as God sitteth in the temple of God, shewing himself that he is God. 5 Remember ye not, that, when I was yet with you, I told you these things? 6 And now ye know what withholdeth that he might be revealed in his time. 7 For the mystery of iniquity doth already work : only he who now letteth will let, until he be taken out of the way. 8 And then shall that Wicked be revealed , whom the Lord shall consume with the spirit of his mouth, and shall destroy with the brightness of his coming: 9 Even him, whose coming is after the working of Satan with all power and signs and lying wonders, 10 And with all deceivableness of unrighteousness in them that perish ; because they received not the love of the truth, that they might be saved .
The Holy Spirit not only works within us and through us, but He also works as a restrainer against the coming of the anti-Christ. Until the Holy Spirit is removed from the earth the anti-Christ can't be revealed. I say can't because the Spirit will reveal him for who and what he is. The Holy Spirit here on the earth dwells inside of believers so when the rapture occurs and the saved which have been sealed are taken away, the Holy Spirit will be removed. This starts the tribulation.
Living in the time we do we understand that, once we believe and are sealed, our salvation is secured and can't be removed from us. Even if we stray from God and turn to sin anyone that is truly saved will be with God, because God is faithful. The retaining doesn't depend upon us or our actions but upon God and His word.
After the rapture and during the tribulation period there will be believers that will come to know God through His word and through great evidence that He exists. But unlike us where the Spirit of God draws us toward salvation through the conviction of our sinful state and our need of a Savior. Those after the rapture won't have that opportunity because of the absence of the Holy Spirit. What this means is that those after the rapture will believe through their own understanding. They will have to believe against the flesh and against what is referred to as the "natural man".
Now believing against the flesh and a sinful nature will be a challenge because man is not inclined come after God because of worldly desires, but during this time there will be great evidence pointing toward God. The Rapture and the disappearance of multitudes of professing believers. The prophecies being fulfilled written thousands of years before. The wrath of God being poured out upon the earth. All these will persuade man against his nature that there is a greater power and authority than those men here on earth. Even in light of great evidence I believe that those who come to believe will be just a small percentage of those that remain on the earth. Very much as it was in the OT and even now.
Revelation 6:9-11
9 And when he had opened the fifth seal, I saw under the altar the souls of them that were slain for the word of God, and for the testimony which they held : 10 And they cried with a loud voice, saying , How long, O Lord, holy and true, dost thou not judge and avenge our blood on them that dwell on the earth? 11 And white robes were given unto every one of them; and it was said unto them, that they should rest yet for a little season, until their fellowservants also and their brethren, that should be killed as they were, should be fulfilled .
During the first part of the tribulation period the seals are opened. John from Patmos wrote that after the fifth seal was opened, He saw the souls of those that were slain for the word of God and their testimony. These asked God how long he was going to tarry before avenging their deaths. God told them to rest for a little time until their fellow servants also and their brothers that were to die as they did was fulfilled.
These that were under the alter died for their belief in God and there were others like them that would also die the same as they had, for the word of God and their testimonies. During the tribulation, After the anti-Christ has been revealed. These are believers that had turned to God after the rapture. This is evidence from the fact that they didn't get taken in the rapture but were left behind.
Revelation 7
1 And after these things I saw four angels standing on the four corners of the earth, holding the four winds of the earth, that the wind should not blow on the earth, nor on the sea, nor on any tree. 2 And I saw another angel ascending from the east , having the seal of the living God: and he cried with a loud voice to the four angels, to whom it was given to hurt the earth and the sea, 3 Saying , Hurt not the earth, neither the sea, nor the trees, till we have sealed the servants of our God in their foreheads. 4 And I heard the number of them which were sealed : and there were sealed an hundred and forty and four thousand of all the tribes of the children of Israel. 5 Of the tribe of Juda were sealed twelve thousand. Of the tribe of Reuben were sealed twelve thousand. Of the tribe of Gad were sealed twelve thousand. 6 Of the tribe of Aser were sealed twelve thousand. Of the tribe of Nepthalim were sealed twelve thousand. Of the tribe of Manasses were sealed twelve thousand. 7 Of the tribe of Simeon were sealed twelve thousand. Of the tribe of Levi were sealed twelve thousand. Of the tribe of Issachar were sealed twelve thousand. 8 Of the tribe of Zabulon were sealed twelve thousand. Of the tribe of Joseph were sealed twelve thousand. Of the tribe of Benjamin were sealed twelve thousand. 9 After this I beheld , and, lo , a great multitude, which no man could number , of all nations, and kindreds, and people, and tongues, stood before the throne, and before the Lamb, clothed with white robes, and palms in their hands; 10 And cried with a loud voice, saying , Salvation to our God which sitteth upon the throne, and unto the Lamb. 11 And all the angels stood round about the throne, and about the elders and the four beasts, and fell before the throne on their faces, and worshipped God, 12 Saying , Amen: Blessing, and glory, and wisdom, and thanksgiving, and honour, and power, and might, be unto our God for ever and ever. Amen. 13 And one of the elders answered , saying unto me, What are these which are arrayed in white robes? and whence came they ? 14 And I said unto him, Sir, thou knowest . And he said to me, These are they which came out of great tribulation, and have washed their robes, and made them white in the blood of the Lamb. 15 Therefore are they before the throne of God, and serve him day and night in his temple: and he that sitteth on the throne shall dwell among them. 16 They shall hunger no more, neither thirst any more; neither shall the sun light on them, nor any heat. 17 For the Lamb which is in the midst of the throne shall feed them, and shall lead them unto living fountains of waters: and God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes.
John saw four angels restraining the winds from blowing on the earth. And then another angel having the seal of the Living God. He shouted to the other angels that restrained the winds, not to loose them until he had sealed all the servants of God. Among these will be the 144,000 from the twelve tribes of Israel. After this he saw a great multitude of people that no man could number of all nations, tongues before the throne of God and before Jesus in white robe. One of elders told John that these were the ones that came out of the great tribulation and washed their robes in the blood of the lamb. They were before the throne to serve God day and night in the temple. These people that no man could number and stood before God came out of the tribulation, and were appointed to serve God.
Revelation 9:1-4
1 And the fifth angel sounded , and I saw a star fall from heaven unto the earth: and to him was given the key of the bottomless pit. 2 And he opened the bottomless pit; and there arose a smoke out of the pit, as the smoke of a great furnace; and the sun and the air were darkened by reason of the smoke of the pit. 3 And there came out of the smoke locusts upon the earth: and unto them was given power, as the scorpions of the earth have power. 4 And it was commanded them that they should not hurt the grass of the earth, neither any green thing, neither any tree; but only those men which have not the seal of God in their foreheads.
When the fifth angel sounded his trumpet, John saw a star fall from heaven to the earth. A key was given to the bottomless pit. When it was opened a smoke rose and darkened the sky. From the smoke came locusts that had the power to sting as scorpions do. They were commanded to only hurt the men that did not have the seal of God. These are those that believe and witness for God during this time.
Revelation 9:20-21
20 And the rest of the men which were not killed by these plagues yet repented not of the works of their hands, that they should not worship devils, and idols of gold, and silver, and brass, and stone, and of wood: which neither can see , nor hear , nor walk : 21 Neither repented they of their murders, nor of their sorceries, nor of their fornication, nor of their thefts.
According to this verse there will be repentance after the rapture. During the plagues man refuses to repent for their sins against God and mankind.
Revelation 13:4-10
4 And they worshipped the dragon which gave power unto the beast: and they worshipped the beast, saying , Who is like unto the beast? who is able to make war with him? 5 And there was given unto him a mouth speaking great things and blasphemies; and power was given unto him to continue forty and two months. 6 And he opened his mouth in blasphemy against God, to blaspheme his name, and his tabernacle, and them that dwell in heaven. 7 And it was given unto him to make war with the saints, and to overcome them: and power was given him over all kindreds, and tongues, and nations. 8 And all that dwell upon the earth shall worship him, whose names are not written in the book of life of the Lamb slain from the foundation of the world. 9 If any man have an ear, let him hear . 10 He that leadeth into captivity shall go into captivity: he that killeth with the sword must be killed with the sword. Here is the patience and the faith of the saints.
These verses show that men will worship Satan and the beast as gods. And the beast will make war with the saints. Another testimony of saints being on the earth. And all men will worship the beast whose names are not written in the Lamb's book of life.
Revelation 14:9-13
9 And the third angel followed them, saying with a loud voice, If any man worship the beast and his image, and receive his mark in his forehead, or in his hand, 10 The same shall drink of the wine of the wrath of God, which is poured out without mixture into the cup of his indignation; and he shall be tormented with fire and brimstone in the presence of the holy angels, and in the presence of the Lamb: 11 And the smoke of their torment ascendeth up for ever and ever: and they have no rest day nor night, who worship the beast and his image, and whosoever receiveth the mark of his name. 12 Here is the patience of the saints: here are they that keep the commandments of God, and the faith of Jesus. 13 And I heard a voice from heaven saying unto me, Write , Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord from henceforth: Yea, saith the Spirit, that they may rest from their labours; and their works do follow them.
An ultimatum is proclaimed that however worships the beast, a representative idol. or receives the mark will face the wrath of God. The will be tormented with fire and brimstone day and night being under the watch of the angels and Jesus. Here the saints that have died are rewarded for their patience because God's wrath is being executed against those that caused their death. Then John heard a voice from heaven telling him to write, Blessed are those that die in the Lord from this point forward. And they will rest from their works and their works will follow them. They will be judged according to their works and their testimonies because they never caved into the beast. They followed God, kept the commandments and maintained their faith in Jesus.
Revelation 20:4-6
4 And I saw thrones, and they sat upon them, and judgment was given unto them: and I saw the souls of them that were beheaded for the witness of Jesus, and for the word of God, and which had not worshipped the beast, neither his image , neither had received his mark upon their foreheads, or in their hands; and they lived and reigned with Christ a thousand years. 5 But the rest of the dead lived not again until the thousand years were finished . This is the first resurrection. 6 Blessed and holy is he that hath part in the first resurrection: on such the second death hath no power, but they shall be priests of God and of Christ, and shall reign with him a thousand years.
With two chapters left John records that he saw the souls that were beheaded for their witness of Jesus, for the word of God and refused to worship the beast, his image and refused the mark. These lived and reigned with Jesus for the millennium. This is the first resurrection, Those that have a part in it are called blessed and holy. These believers and followers of Christ could only have died during the tribulation after the rapture.
We must remember that this is the first of two resurrections after the rapture, the rapture of the church is not included even though there was a resurrection at that time. This first resurrection, after the rapture, includes only those which had believed in Jesus and endured in that belief till their end. They are not subject to punishment that is reserved for those that worshipped the beast or received the mark, which is eternal punishment in the lake of fire. Those that do not take part in this first resurrection will be raised up after the 1000 years to stand judgment, be condemned for their works in the flesh and receive their punishment from a just and righteous judge.
I use the word "endure" because believers have to remain loyal without the indwelling of the Holy Spirit, without His presence man must follow God through his own will. This will be very trying without the joy, peace and comfort that He provides to believers now. Even a professing believer can condemn himself by receiving the mark of the beast, even to feed his family. To deny Christ to save your own life or your families can have eternal consequences.
I don't believe that this is considered a second chance. I believe that there is a difference between someone that rejects Jesus and someone that has yet to believe. Those that reject Jesus will not ever believe and never make a commitment.
Will people able to be saved after the rapture and during the tribulation?
The book of Revelation can be a confusing book for many people to understand. It deals with future events that were shown to John in a vision. These events are not figurative but a literal text of what will transpire at the end of times.
Today there are many prophecy type teachers and preachers that try to explain what revelation really means. We have heard twisted words, added ideas and reading between the lines to try fit scriptures into their ideas and teach their interpretation. Arguing that it is a symbolic language that is open to interpretation according to the times that we live in, they fit the most bizarre ideas into their teachings. Although I do not doubt that in the tribulation period that there will be helicopters and tanks, because on many fronts it will be man against man. Although this paper only covers one specific point, from a scriptural point of view, it doesn't fit with some of the popular teachers or denominations.
I was asked the question above during a class and felt that it would be good to comment on it here. "Will people be able to be saved after the rapture and during the tribulation?"
From my understanding through study of the scriptures; yes, some will become believers after the rapture during the tribulation.
Many people now have a basic understanding of what salvation is. Salvation is the deliverance from the power and penalty of sin. According to scripture one of the things that we are saved from is God's wrath.
Romans 5:8-10
8 But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. 9 Much more then, being now justified by his blood, we shall be saved from wrath through him. 10 For if, when we were enemies, we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son, much more, being reconciled, we shall be saved by his life.
We have heard and quoted Romans 5:8 many times but the next two verses shows what the blood of Christ has done. It has reconciled us with God and saved us from His wrath. God's wrath is not only recognized now but will also be poured out upon the world after the rapture comes, and is shown clearly throughout the OT. The beginning of getting right with God has always been and will begin with belief, you must believe.
Now, there is a difference between the time before Christ, Now and after the rapture comes. In the OT times people believed in God and were saved from many perils because of that belief. They believed the words of the Prophets and had the Law that was given through Moses. Many people believed because of evidence seen and testified of. It is easy to believe when confronted with great evidence these people were blessed with the presence of God and His benefits.
In this time that we live in we have an even greater blessing. We live after the death, burial and resurrection of Christ. We believe without seeing and serve God through very little evidence. Jesus said that we were more blessed than those that see and believe. Our salvation includes; not just having complete justification through Christ Jesus and His sacrifice, but we are also indwelled with the Holy Spirit until the day of redemption. He leads us into understanding, truth, and testifies of Jesus. Through the Spirit we are sealed until that day when Jesus calls us to come to Him.
2 Thessalonians 2:3-10
3 Let no man deceive you by any means: for that day shall not come, except there come a falling away first, and that man of sin be revealed , the son of perdition; 4 Who opposeth and exalteth himself above all that is called God, or that is worshipped; so that he as God sitteth in the temple of God, shewing himself that he is God. 5 Remember ye not, that, when I was yet with you, I told you these things? 6 And now ye know what withholdeth that he might be revealed in his time. 7 For the mystery of iniquity doth already work : only he who now letteth will let, until he be taken out of the way. 8 And then shall that Wicked be revealed , whom the Lord shall consume with the spirit of his mouth, and shall destroy with the brightness of his coming: 9 Even him, whose coming is after the working of Satan with all power and signs and lying wonders, 10 And with all deceivableness of unrighteousness in them that perish ; because they received not the love of the truth, that they might be saved .
The Holy Spirit not only works within us and through us, but He also works as a restrainer against the coming of the anti-Christ. Until the Holy Spirit is removed from the earth the anti-Christ can't be revealed. I say can't because the Spirit will reveal him for who and what he is. The Holy Spirit here on the earth dwells inside of believers so when the rapture occurs and the saved which have been sealed are taken away, the Holy Spirit will be removed. This starts the tribulation.
Living in the time we do we understand that, once we believe and are sealed, our salvation is secured and can't be removed from us. Even if we stray from God and turn to sin anyone that is truly saved will be with God, because God is faithful. The retaining doesn't depend upon us or our actions but upon God and His word.
After the rapture and during the tribulation period there will be believers that will come to know God through His word and through great evidence that He exists. But unlike us where the Spirit of God draws us toward salvation through the conviction of our sinful state and our need of a Savior. Those after the rapture won't have that opportunity because of the absence of the Holy Spirit. What this means is that those after the rapture will believe through their own understanding. They will have to believe against the flesh and against what is referred to as the "natural man".
Now believing against the flesh and a sinful nature will be a challenge because man is not inclined come after God because of worldly desires, but during this time there will be great evidence pointing toward God. The Rapture and the disappearance of multitudes of professing believers. The prophecies being fulfilled written thousands of years before. The wrath of God being poured out upon the earth. All these will persuade man against his nature that there is a greater power and authority than those men here on earth. Even in light of great evidence I believe that those who come to believe will be just a small percentage of those that remain on the earth. Very much as it was in the OT and even now.
Revelation 6:9-11
9 And when he had opened the fifth seal, I saw under the altar the souls of them that were slain for the word of God, and for the testimony which they held : 10 And they cried with a loud voice, saying , How long, O Lord, holy and true, dost thou not judge and avenge our blood on them that dwell on the earth? 11 And white robes were given unto every one of them; and it was said unto them, that they should rest yet for a little season, until their fellowservants also and their brethren, that should be killed as they were, should be fulfilled .
During the first part of the tribulation period the seals are opened. John from Patmos wrote that after the fifth seal was opened, He saw the souls of those that were slain for the word of God and their testimony. These asked God how long he was going to tarry before avenging their deaths. God told them to rest for a little time until their fellow servants also and their brothers that were to die as they did was fulfilled.
These that were under the alter died for their belief in God and there were others like them that would also die the same as they had, for the word of God and their testimonies. During the tribulation, After the anti-Christ has been revealed. These are believers that had turned to God after the rapture. This is evidence from the fact that they didn't get taken in the rapture but were left behind.
Revelation 7
1 And after these things I saw four angels standing on the four corners of the earth, holding the four winds of the earth, that the wind should not blow on the earth, nor on the sea, nor on any tree. 2 And I saw another angel ascending from the east , having the seal of the living God: and he cried with a loud voice to the four angels, to whom it was given to hurt the earth and the sea, 3 Saying , Hurt not the earth, neither the sea, nor the trees, till we have sealed the servants of our God in their foreheads. 4 And I heard the number of them which were sealed : and there were sealed an hundred and forty and four thousand of all the tribes of the children of Israel. 5 Of the tribe of Juda were sealed twelve thousand. Of the tribe of Reuben were sealed twelve thousand. Of the tribe of Gad were sealed twelve thousand. 6 Of the tribe of Aser were sealed twelve thousand. Of the tribe of Nepthalim were sealed twelve thousand. Of the tribe of Manasses were sealed twelve thousand. 7 Of the tribe of Simeon were sealed twelve thousand. Of the tribe of Levi were sealed twelve thousand. Of the tribe of Issachar were sealed twelve thousand. 8 Of the tribe of Zabulon were sealed twelve thousand. Of the tribe of Joseph were sealed twelve thousand. Of the tribe of Benjamin were sealed twelve thousand. 9 After this I beheld , and, lo , a great multitude, which no man could number , of all nations, and kindreds, and people, and tongues, stood before the throne, and before the Lamb, clothed with white robes, and palms in their hands; 10 And cried with a loud voice, saying , Salvation to our God which sitteth upon the throne, and unto the Lamb. 11 And all the angels stood round about the throne, and about the elders and the four beasts, and fell before the throne on their faces, and worshipped God, 12 Saying , Amen: Blessing, and glory, and wisdom, and thanksgiving, and honour, and power, and might, be unto our God for ever and ever. Amen. 13 And one of the elders answered , saying unto me, What are these which are arrayed in white robes? and whence came they ? 14 And I said unto him, Sir, thou knowest . And he said to me, These are they which came out of great tribulation, and have washed their robes, and made them white in the blood of the Lamb. 15 Therefore are they before the throne of God, and serve him day and night in his temple: and he that sitteth on the throne shall dwell among them. 16 They shall hunger no more, neither thirst any more; neither shall the sun light on them, nor any heat. 17 For the Lamb which is in the midst of the throne shall feed them, and shall lead them unto living fountains of waters: and God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes.
John saw four angels restraining the winds from blowing on the earth. And then another angel having the seal of the Living God. He shouted to the other angels that restrained the winds, not to loose them until he had sealed all the servants of God. Among these will be the 144,000 from the twelve tribes of Israel. After this he saw a great multitude of people that no man could number of all nations, tongues before the throne of God and before Jesus in white robe. One of elders told John that these were the ones that came out of the great tribulation and washed their robes in the blood of the lamb. They were before the throne to serve God day and night in the temple. These people that no man could number and stood before God came out of the tribulation, and were appointed to serve God.
Revelation 9:1-4
1 And the fifth angel sounded , and I saw a star fall from heaven unto the earth: and to him was given the key of the bottomless pit. 2 And he opened the bottomless pit; and there arose a smoke out of the pit, as the smoke of a great furnace; and the sun and the air were darkened by reason of the smoke of the pit. 3 And there came out of the smoke locusts upon the earth: and unto them was given power, as the scorpions of the earth have power. 4 And it was commanded them that they should not hurt the grass of the earth, neither any green thing, neither any tree; but only those men which have not the seal of God in their foreheads.
When the fifth angel sounded his trumpet, John saw a star fall from heaven to the earth. A key was given to the bottomless pit. When it was opened a smoke rose and darkened the sky. From the smoke came locusts that had the power to sting as scorpions do. They were commanded to only hurt the men that did not have the seal of God. These are those that believe and witness for God during this time.
Revelation 9:20-21
20 And the rest of the men which were not killed by these plagues yet repented not of the works of their hands, that they should not worship devils, and idols of gold, and silver, and brass, and stone, and of wood: which neither can see , nor hear , nor walk : 21 Neither repented they of their murders, nor of their sorceries, nor of their fornication, nor of their thefts.
According to this verse there will be repentance after the rapture. During the plagues man refuses to repent for their sins against God and mankind.
Revelation 13:4-10
4 And they worshipped the dragon which gave power unto the beast: and they worshipped the beast, saying , Who is like unto the beast? who is able to make war with him? 5 And there was given unto him a mouth speaking great things and blasphemies; and power was given unto him to continue forty and two months. 6 And he opened his mouth in blasphemy against God, to blaspheme his name, and his tabernacle, and them that dwell in heaven. 7 And it was given unto him to make war with the saints, and to overcome them: and power was given him over all kindreds, and tongues, and nations. 8 And all that dwell upon the earth shall worship him, whose names are not written in the book of life of the Lamb slain from the foundation of the world. 9 If any man have an ear, let him hear . 10 He that leadeth into captivity shall go into captivity: he that killeth with the sword must be killed with the sword. Here is the patience and the faith of the saints.
These verses show that men will worship Satan and the beast as gods. And the beast will make war with the saints. Another testimony of saints being on the earth. And all men will worship the beast whose names are not written in the Lamb's book of life.
Revelation 14:9-13
9 And the third angel followed them, saying with a loud voice, If any man worship the beast and his image, and receive his mark in his forehead, or in his hand, 10 The same shall drink of the wine of the wrath of God, which is poured out without mixture into the cup of his indignation; and he shall be tormented with fire and brimstone in the presence of the holy angels, and in the presence of the Lamb: 11 And the smoke of their torment ascendeth up for ever and ever: and they have no rest day nor night, who worship the beast and his image, and whosoever receiveth the mark of his name. 12 Here is the patience of the saints: here are they that keep the commandments of God, and the faith of Jesus. 13 And I heard a voice from heaven saying unto me, Write , Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord from henceforth: Yea, saith the Spirit, that they may rest from their labours; and their works do follow them.
An ultimatum is proclaimed that however worships the beast, a representative idol. or receives the mark will face the wrath of God. The will be tormented with fire and brimstone day and night being under the watch of the angels and Jesus. Here the saints that have died are rewarded for their patience because God's wrath is being executed against those that caused their death. Then John heard a voice from heaven telling him to write, Blessed are those that die in the Lord from this point forward. And they will rest from their works and their works will follow them. They will be judged according to their works and their testimonies because they never caved into the beast. They followed God, kept the commandments and maintained their faith in Jesus.
Revelation 20:4-6
4 And I saw thrones, and they sat upon them, and judgment was given unto them: and I saw the souls of them that were beheaded for the witness of Jesus, and for the word of God, and which had not worshipped the beast, neither his image , neither had received his mark upon their foreheads, or in their hands; and they lived and reigned with Christ a thousand years. 5 But the rest of the dead lived not again until the thousand years were finished . This is the first resurrection. 6 Blessed and holy is he that hath part in the first resurrection: on such the second death hath no power, but they shall be priests of God and of Christ, and shall reign with him a thousand years.
With two chapters left John records that he saw the souls that were beheaded for their witness of Jesus, for the word of God and refused to worship the beast, his image and refused the mark. These lived and reigned with Jesus for the millennium. This is the first resurrection, Those that have a part in it are called blessed and holy. These believers and followers of Christ could only have died during the tribulation after the rapture.
We must remember that this is the first of two resurrections after the rapture, the rapture of the church is not included even though there was a resurrection at that time. This first resurrection, after the rapture, includes only those which had believed in Jesus and endured in that belief till their end. They are not subject to punishment that is reserved for those that worshipped the beast or received the mark, which is eternal punishment in the lake of fire. Those that do not take part in this first resurrection will be raised up after the 1000 years to stand judgment, be condemned for their works in the flesh and receive their punishment from a just and righteous judge.
I use the word "endure" because believers have to remain loyal without the indwelling of the Holy Spirit, without His presence man must follow God through his own will. This will be very trying without the joy, peace and comfort that He provides to believers now. Even a professing believer can condemn himself by receiving the mark of the beast, even to feed his family. To deny Christ to save your own life or your families can have eternal consequences.
I don't believe that this is considered a second chance. I believe that there is a difference between someone that rejects Jesus and someone that has yet to believe. Those that reject Jesus will not ever believe and never make a commitment.
Tuesday, September 6, 2011
What is Essential Doctrine?
What is Essential Doctrine?
As it is used here: Doctrine is a belief or tenet in theological matters. Doctrine in any particular belief, whether a denomination or whether a religious belief apart from Christianity. Christian doctrine is the truths revealed to us in the word of God through the scriptures. Essential means that it is of utmost importance, for us it means that they have to be believed.
Just because a person claims to be a Christian doesn't make them a Christian. Many people and groups will claim Christianity but deny the most essential beliefs of Christianity.
In Christianity, essential doctrine is the basic beliefs from scripture that are necessary to be a Christian. It is doctrine that is found in all true Christian denominations. To deny or to change any of these biblical truths is to deny the truth taught through scriptures.
1. Monotheism - There is only one true God that exists. Isaiah 43:10 - 44:6 - 45:5,14,18,21,22
2. Deity of Christ - Belief that Jesus is God in the flesh. John 8:24
3. Salvation by Grace - Salvation is by grace alone, through faith in the finished work of Jesus Christ and not by our works. His sacrifice was sufficient for the sins of the world. Eph. 2:8-9
4. The Gospel - The Gospel of Jesus Christ, or the Good News contained in the scriptures. The Good News tells or the redemptive sacrifice for our sins through Jesus Christ. Included in the Gospel is His sacrificial death, burial and bodily resurrection. 1 Cor. 15:1-4
5. The Resurrection of Christ - Although part of the Gospel it also stands alone. The resurrection is of utmost importance because without it our faith is in vain and we are dead in our sins. 1 Cor, 15:14-18
6. Trinity - Belief that even though there is only one God, He exists in three distinct personages. The Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit. Although each is an individual and each is divine in nature, the three form the triune Godhead. Each person of the Trinity is distinct in actions and yet identical in attributes. Matt. 28:19
7. Jesus is the only way to salvation - Jesus stated that He is the Way, the Truth and the Life, no one comes to the Father except through Him. Salvation is found only through Jesus and can not be obtained by any other means. John 14:6
Each of these will be explained in more depth and detail as each is covered alone.
As it is used here: Doctrine is a belief or tenet in theological matters. Doctrine in any particular belief, whether a denomination or whether a religious belief apart from Christianity. Christian doctrine is the truths revealed to us in the word of God through the scriptures. Essential means that it is of utmost importance, for us it means that they have to be believed.
Just because a person claims to be a Christian doesn't make them a Christian. Many people and groups will claim Christianity but deny the most essential beliefs of Christianity.
In Christianity, essential doctrine is the basic beliefs from scripture that are necessary to be a Christian. It is doctrine that is found in all true Christian denominations. To deny or to change any of these biblical truths is to deny the truth taught through scriptures.
1. Monotheism - There is only one true God that exists. Isaiah 43:10 - 44:6 - 45:5,14,18,21,22
2. Deity of Christ - Belief that Jesus is God in the flesh. John 8:24
3. Salvation by Grace - Salvation is by grace alone, through faith in the finished work of Jesus Christ and not by our works. His sacrifice was sufficient for the sins of the world. Eph. 2:8-9
4. The Gospel - The Gospel of Jesus Christ, or the Good News contained in the scriptures. The Good News tells or the redemptive sacrifice for our sins through Jesus Christ. Included in the Gospel is His sacrificial death, burial and bodily resurrection. 1 Cor. 15:1-4
5. The Resurrection of Christ - Although part of the Gospel it also stands alone. The resurrection is of utmost importance because without it our faith is in vain and we are dead in our sins. 1 Cor, 15:14-18
6. Trinity - Belief that even though there is only one God, He exists in three distinct personages. The Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit. Although each is an individual and each is divine in nature, the three form the triune Godhead. Each person of the Trinity is distinct in actions and yet identical in attributes. Matt. 28:19
7. Jesus is the only way to salvation - Jesus stated that He is the Way, the Truth and the Life, no one comes to the Father except through Him. Salvation is found only through Jesus and can not be obtained by any other means. John 14:6
Each of these will be explained in more depth and detail as each is covered alone.
Monday, September 5, 2011
How soon we forget...
Next Sunday is the anniversary of the most devastating attack to ever occur on our shores. Thousands lost their lives, innocent men and women that had only showed up for work that day or happened to be in the vicinity. American Airlines Flight 77 struck the Pentagon. American Airlines Flight 11 and United Airlines Flight 175 targeted the World Trade Center. United Airlines Flight 93, which was presumed to be headed for the Capitol, was forced to crash in a field in Pennsylvania when the passengers fought for control of the plane. Families of the innocent people whose lives were taken that day turned toward others for comfort.
There to support and comfort others were the ones that have been called into the ministry. Not just the pastors and preachers, but all those that have accepted Jesus Christ as their Savior. Those that were directly in contact to family members, ministering to them one on one, at ground zero. Clergy offering to help at the site and the surrounding areas. And countless others praying from around the world as the events unfolded. People praying for God to comfort and give peace to the families and survivors of the devastation. Not because it was the Christian thing to do, but because they were led by the Spirit to intercede through prayer and in presence.
On this anniversary, the clergy are not invited to speak. There will be no prayer, only moments of silence. Politicians will give speeches about how this was a blow to the world, along with some campaigning.
In 2001 when this tragedy happened, America was united through faith. In 2011 faith has been removed from this tragedy. Our prayer this year shouldn't just be for the families that are still grieving but also for the officials that want to remove all presence of God from this country.
There to support and comfort others were the ones that have been called into the ministry. Not just the pastors and preachers, but all those that have accepted Jesus Christ as their Savior. Those that were directly in contact to family members, ministering to them one on one, at ground zero. Clergy offering to help at the site and the surrounding areas. And countless others praying from around the world as the events unfolded. People praying for God to comfort and give peace to the families and survivors of the devastation. Not because it was the Christian thing to do, but because they were led by the Spirit to intercede through prayer and in presence.
On this anniversary, the clergy are not invited to speak. There will be no prayer, only moments of silence. Politicians will give speeches about how this was a blow to the world, along with some campaigning.
In 2001 when this tragedy happened, America was united through faith. In 2011 faith has been removed from this tragedy. Our prayer this year shouldn't just be for the families that are still grieving but also for the officials that want to remove all presence of God from this country.
Friday, August 19, 2011
Ronald Reagan and the King James Bible
This is a transcript of an radio address by Ronald Reagan:
What would you say if someone decided Shakespeare's plays, Charles Dicken's novels, or the music of Beethoven could be rewritten & improved?
I'll be right back. . .
Writing in the journal "The Alternative", Richard Hanser, author of The Law & the Prophets and Jesus: What Manner of Man Is This?, has called attention to something that is more than a little mind boggling. It is my understanding that the Bible (both the Old & New Testaments) has been the best selling book in the entire history of printing.
Now another attempt has been made to improve it. I say another because there have been several fairly recent efforts to quote "make the Bible more readable & understandable" unquote. But as Mr. Hanser so eloquently says, "For more than 3 1/2 centuries, its language and its images, have penetrated more deeply into the general culture of the English speaking world, and been more dearly treasured, than anything else ever put on paper." He then quotes the irreverent H. L. Mencken, who spoke of it as purely a literary work and said it was, "probably the most beautiful piece of writing in any language."
They were, of course, speaking of The Authorized Version, the one that came into being when the England of King James was scoured for translators & scholars. It was a time when the English language had reached it's peak of richness & beauty.
Now we are to have The Good News Bible which will be in, "the natural English of everyday adult conversation." I'm sure the scholars and clergymen supervised by the American Bible Society were sincerely imbued with the thought that they were taking religion to the people with their Good News Bible, but I can't help feeling we should instead be taking the people to religion and lifting them with the beauty of language that has outlived the centuries.
Mr. Hanser has quoted from both the St. James Version & the Good News Bible some well known passages for us to compare. A few thousand years ago Job said "How forcible are right words!" [Job 6:25] The new translators have him saying "Honest words are convincing." That's only for openers. There is the passage [Eccl. 1:18], "For in much wisdom is much grief: and he that increaseth knowledge increaseth sorrow". Is it really an improvement to say instead, "The wiser you are, the more worries you have; the more you know the more it hurts."
In the New Testament, in Mathew, we read "The voice of the one crying in the wilderness. Prepare ye the way." [Matthew 3:3] The Good News version translates that, "Someone is shouting in the desert. Get the road ready." It sounds like a straw boss announcing lunch hour is over.
The hauntingly beautiful 23rd Psalm is the same in both versions, for a few words, "The Lord is my shepherd" but instead of continuing "I shall not want" we are supposed to say "I have everything I need."
The Christmas story has undergone some modernizing but one can hardly call it improved. The wondrous words "Fear not: for; behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy" has become, "Don't be afraid! I am here with good news for you."
The sponsors of the Good News version boast that their Bible is as readable as the daily paper – and so it is. But do readers of the daily news find themselves moved to wonder, "at the gracious words which proceeded out of his mouth"? Mr. Hanser suggests that sadly the "tinkering & general horsing around with the sacred texts will no doubt continue" as pious drudges try to get it right. "It will not dawn on them that it has already been gotten right."
This is Ronald Reagan. Thanks for listening.
What would you say if someone decided Shakespeare's plays, Charles Dicken's novels, or the music of Beethoven could be rewritten & improved?
I'll be right back. . .
Writing in the journal "The Alternative", Richard Hanser, author of The Law & the Prophets and Jesus: What Manner of Man Is This?, has called attention to something that is more than a little mind boggling. It is my understanding that the Bible (both the Old & New Testaments) has been the best selling book in the entire history of printing.
Now another attempt has been made to improve it. I say another because there have been several fairly recent efforts to quote "make the Bible more readable & understandable" unquote. But as Mr. Hanser so eloquently says, "For more than 3 1/2 centuries, its language and its images, have penetrated more deeply into the general culture of the English speaking world, and been more dearly treasured, than anything else ever put on paper." He then quotes the irreverent H. L. Mencken, who spoke of it as purely a literary work and said it was, "probably the most beautiful piece of writing in any language."
They were, of course, speaking of The Authorized Version, the one that came into being when the England of King James was scoured for translators & scholars. It was a time when the English language had reached it's peak of richness & beauty.
Now we are to have The Good News Bible which will be in, "the natural English of everyday adult conversation." I'm sure the scholars and clergymen supervised by the American Bible Society were sincerely imbued with the thought that they were taking religion to the people with their Good News Bible, but I can't help feeling we should instead be taking the people to religion and lifting them with the beauty of language that has outlived the centuries.
Mr. Hanser has quoted from both the St. James Version & the Good News Bible some well known passages for us to compare. A few thousand years ago Job said "How forcible are right words!" [Job 6:25] The new translators have him saying "Honest words are convincing." That's only for openers. There is the passage [Eccl. 1:18], "For in much wisdom is much grief: and he that increaseth knowledge increaseth sorrow". Is it really an improvement to say instead, "The wiser you are, the more worries you have; the more you know the more it hurts."
In the New Testament, in Mathew, we read "The voice of the one crying in the wilderness. Prepare ye the way." [Matthew 3:3] The Good News version translates that, "Someone is shouting in the desert. Get the road ready." It sounds like a straw boss announcing lunch hour is over.
The hauntingly beautiful 23rd Psalm is the same in both versions, for a few words, "The Lord is my shepherd" but instead of continuing "I shall not want" we are supposed to say "I have everything I need."
The Christmas story has undergone some modernizing but one can hardly call it improved. The wondrous words "Fear not: for; behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy" has become, "Don't be afraid! I am here with good news for you."
The sponsors of the Good News version boast that their Bible is as readable as the daily paper – and so it is. But do readers of the daily news find themselves moved to wonder, "at the gracious words which proceeded out of his mouth"? Mr. Hanser suggests that sadly the "tinkering & general horsing around with the sacred texts will no doubt continue" as pious drudges try to get it right. "It will not dawn on them that it has already been gotten right."
This is Ronald Reagan. Thanks for listening.
— aired September 6, 1977
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