D15. MAIN-The Hope of Our Resurrection

D15. THE HOPE OF OUR RESURRECTION

PREPARATION

• Although God faithfully preserved the Messianic line from Adam to Christ to bring forth the eternal life, that physical lineage culminated and concluded with Jesus’ death on the cross

• While Jesus did have physical siblings (Matt 13:55-56; John 7:5; Gal 1:19), His redemptive mission did not perpetuate a biological legacy, nor need to

• Rather, from the cross forward, His lineage proceeds spiritually -- not physically -- as seen in the establishment of His kingdom in its present, temporary, mystery form (Matt 13, John 18:36)

• This spiritual genealogy consists of all born-again believers, whether of Jewish descent or Gentile, united in Him as the true seed of Abraham (Gal 3:29) <B26> <G70>

John 5:28-29 NIV

[28] “Do not be amazed at this, for a time is coming when all who are in their graves will hear his voice [29] and come out---those who have done what is good will rise to live, and those who have done what is evil will rise to be condemned.

Daniel 12:2 NIV

[2] Multitudes who sleep in the dust of the earth will awake: some to everlasting life, others to shame and everlasting contempt.

TIMELINE OF RESURRECTIONS

• While Jewish tradition states there will be one general resurrection when God will revive the physical bodies of the dead and reunite them with their souls during the Messianic Age, this belief goes against Scripture <D497>

Isaiah 26:19 NIV

[19] But your dead will live, Lord; their bodies will rise---let those who dwell in the dust wake up and shout for joy---your dew is like the dew of the morning; the earth will give birth to her dead.

• Some believe that all OLD TESTAMENT SAINTS were already raised at the time of Jesus' death (Matt 27:50-53)

• Most, however, hold to the resurrection of Old Testament saints at the end of Daniel’s 70th week, the end of the days of the Tribulation Period (Dan 12:11-13)

Matthew 27:50-53 NIV

[50] And when Jesus had cried out again in a loud voice, he gave up his spirit. [51] At that moment the curtain of the temple was torn in two from top to bottom. The earth shook, the rocks split [52] and the tombs broke open. The bodies of many holy people who had died were raised to life. [53] They came out of the tombs after Jesus' resurrection and went into the holy city and appeared to many people.

Daniel 12:11-13 NIV

[11] “From the time that the daily sacrifice is abolished and the abomination that causes desolation is set up, there will be 1,290 days. [12] Blessed is the one who waits for and reaches the end of the 1,335 days. [13] “As for you, go your way till the end. You will rest, and then at the end of the days you will rise to receive your allotted inheritance. ”

• NEW TESTAMENT SAINTS or Church Age believers who already died will join those who are alive in resurrection at the Rapture, when Christ returns to gather His followers (1 Thess 4:16-17)

• Also, there will be saints martyred during the Tribulation Period; many believe their resurrection will be at the same time as the Old Testament saints at the second coming of Christ (Rev 6:9-11)

• Death during the MILLENNIAL KINGDOM will be quite rare, considering life spans will return to those experienced prior to the flood; the issue of the death of a millennial saint is not specifically addressed in Scripture

1 Thessalonians 4:16-17 NIV

[16] For the Lord himself will come down from heaven, with a loud command, with the voice of the archangel and with the trumpet call of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first. [17] After that, we who are still alive and are left will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And so we will be with the Lord forever.

Revelation 6:9-11 NIV

[9] When he opened the fifth seal, I saw under the altar the souls of those who had been slain because of the word of God and the testimony they had maintained. [10] They called out in a loud voice, “How long, Sovereign Lord, holy and true, until you judge the inhabitants of the earth and avenge our blood?” [11] Then each of them was given a white robe, and they were told to wait a little longer, until the full number of their fellow servants, their brothers and sisters, were killed just as they had been.

• Everyone is going to receive a resurrected body and everybody is going to spend eternity in their resurrected body; it just depends on location

• There will be an UNBELIEVER RESURRECTION, for they too will need a resurrected body for their eternal state of punishment (Rev 20:11-15)

Revelation 20:11-15 NIV

[11] Then I saw a great white throne and him who was seated on it. The earth and the heavens fled from his presence, and there was no place for them. [12] And I saw the dead, great and small, standing before the throne, and books were opened. Another book was opened, which is the book of life. The dead were judged according to what they had done as recorded in the books. [13] The sea gave up the dead that were in it, and death and Hades gave up the dead that were in them, and each person was judged according to what they had done. [14] Then death and Hades were thrown into the lake of fire. The lake of fire is the second death. [15] Anyone whose name was not found written in the book of life was thrown into the lake of fire.

OUR HOPE

• Any one of us can become part of Jesus' spiritual blood line when we place our faith and trust in Him

• Jesus can transform followers of Christ based on what He accomplished on the cross, and our new bodies will be just like the body He received at His powerful resurrection <P168>

• The Old Testament saints, which include both pre-Abraham believers like Adam, Eve and Enoch, and post-Abraham to the cross believers like Moses and David, are distinct and dispensationally different from the Church Age Saints like Paul and Silas <P168>

• According to Jesus and all New Testament apostles, there will be two distinct resurrections separated by at least a thousand years during which Jesus will reign upon the earth and set up His Millennial Kingdom <C400>

• The saved of both the Old and New Testament will be raised before this blessed Kingdom Age

• The lost of all ages will not be resurrected until after the thousand years are ended

• After being taken up and given new, forever immortal bodies and a mindset such as our Jesus has, and after being able to stand and even speak after our first in-person meeting with our Savior, we look forward to seeing all our loved ones there <H91>

Philippians 3:20-21 NIV

[20] But our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ, [21] who, by the power that enables him to bring everything under his control, will transform our lowly bodies so that they will be like his glorious body.

RELATED COMMENTS

Note: each ** comment in this APPLICATION doc comes from CHAPTER doc(s), where the comments are in numerical order according to verse(s) from the chapter

** The same Spirit that rose Jesus from the dead can bring a fulfilled eternal life to those who call on Him!

• Anyone who calls on the name of Christ will be saved and receive the Holy Spirit

• Those who are born again can live a fulfilled life of joy, peace and hope through the power of the Holy Spirit

• In addition to living a fulfilled life in this mortal existence, the same believer is promised eternity with Christ when their life is over

Romans 8:11 NIV

[11] And if the Spirit of him who raised Jesus from the dead is living in you, he who raised Christ from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies because of his Spirit who lives in you.

Acts 1:8 NIV

[8] But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.”

Romans 15:13 NIV

[13] May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.

John 10:10 NIV

[10] The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.

** God justifies us at the moment of our regeneration <B26>

• Beware: Catholic theologians decided that God’s justification of the sinner happens at the end of one’s life

• This teaching provided the church with the means to control the lives of its members from birth to the grave

• As a result, Catholics can never be sure of their salvation since their final destination depends upon their obedience as well as adherence to the church’s sacraments up to the time of last rites

Titus 3:4-7 NIV

[4] But when the kindness and love of God our Savior appeared, [5] he saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy. He saved us through the washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit, [6] whom he poured out on us generously through Jesus Christ our Savior, [7] so that, having been justified by his grace, we might become heirs having the hope of eternal life.

• The belief that one can lose their salvation, or walk away from their faith, reflects the Roman Catholic understanding of justification, which regards it as a process that’s not fully settled until death

• Scripture tells us a much different story

• When God justifies the sinner the moment they repent and believe in Him, He declares that person not guilty of all his or her sins, past present, and future

• God, who is not bound by time, looked at our entire life and declared us not guilty of all our sins

• For all of us in Christ Jesus, our justification is a done deal

Romans 5:1 NIV

[1] Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ

** Humans are 3-part beings: spirit, soul and body <M1501>

1 Thessalonians 5:23 NIV

[23] May God himself, the God of peace, sanctify you through and through. May your whole spirit, soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.

• The SPIRIT is the eternal part that is in communion continually with the Holy Spirit

• We hear God first through our spirit

• The stronger we are in our spirit, the less 'hold' the enemy has over us

Romans 8:12-14 NIV

[12] Therefore, brothers and sisters, we have an obligation---but it is not to the flesh, to live according to it. [13] For if you live according to the flesh, you will die; but if by the Spirit you put to death the misdeeds of the body, you will live. [14] For those who are led by the Spirit of God are the children of God.

• Our SOUL is made up of our mind, will, and emotions

• These are usually in conflict with the spirit until we study God's Word and move 'in line' with Him

• God can reveal Himself through His still small voice, but this voice requires that we recognize and understand what He is communicating

• Read His Word in order to understand how He is directing you!

1 John 2:16 NIV

[16] For everything in the world---the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life---comes not from the Father but from the world.

• The BODY is generally at odds with Christ's message because of its natural desires

• When we die, our physical body stops working and we go into the ground, while our spirit goes to paradise

• Believers in Christ can look forward to new bodies at our resurrection upon death, so not to remain in a weakened state controlled by desire

• When Jesus returns, the dead bodies will be resurrected and joined with the spirits in the air where we become glorified <O155>

1 Thessalonians 4:16 NIV

[16] For the Lord himself will come down from heaven, with a loud command, with the voice of the archangel and with the trumpet call of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first.

** Most likely the disciples did not recognize Jesus after He rose from the dead because His appearance showed more of the glory of God <M1501>

• Jesus was not as 'contained' as He would have been in the flesh

• He could reveal Himself to whom He wanted, just as He could conceal Himself at will

• Many believe followers of Christ will have a similar glorified body when they too are resurrected

Luke 24:28-32 NIV

[28] As they approached the village to which they were going, Jesus continued on as if he were going farther. [29] But they urged him strongly, “Stay with us, for it is nearly evening; the day is almost over.” So he went in to stay with them. [30] When he was at the table with them, he took bread, gave thanks, broke it and began to give it to them. [31] Then their eyes were opened and they recognized him, and he disappeared from their sight. [32] They asked each other, “Were not our hearts burning within us while he talked with us on the road and opened the Scriptures to us?”

** Both prepared and unprepared virgins in the parable fell asleep when the bridegroom was delayed <M1501>

• It seemed the bridegroom was delayed from the perspective of those waiting, not from the bridegroom

• The fact that ALL virgins fell asleep (even though some were more prepared than others) should remind His followers to remain vigilant while waiting for Christ's return

• Part of being prepared and ready for Christ's return is dealing with the evil that is evident all around

• Too often Christians prefer to ignore what's happening in the world, rather than deal with it

• Have we become numb to evil in a fallen world or even become compliant to it?

Matthew 25:5 NIV

[5] The bridegroom was a long time in coming, and they all became drowsy and fell asleep.

Matthew 6:22-24 NIV

[22] “The eye is the lamp of the body. If your eyes are healthy, your whole body will be full of light. [23] But if your eyes are unhealthy, your whole body will be full of darkness. If then the light within you is darkness, how great is that darkness! [24] “No one can serve two masters. Either you will hate the one and love the other, or you will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money.

• Followers of Christ are to keep guard so evil does not infiltrate; the moment they let down their guard is the moment they give in to it

• Evil may seem like it plays out solely in the worldly physical realm, when in reality spiritual warfare is playing out in the spiritual realm as we see traces of it in this world

1 Corinthians 15:46 NIV

[46] The spiritual did not come first, but the natural, and after that the spiritual.

** Don't gloss over the fact that when Jesus died, many Old Testament saints were raised from the grave

• The moment Jesus challenged and ultimately conquered death, a number of His Old Testament followers conquered physical death in this world and rose from their graves

• Likewise, when the Rapture happens, the deceased Christians will be raised from the dead first and all believers will be caught up into the air to meet Jesus <P1701>

• ALL believers who have/had faith in God will experience the conquering of spiritual death and live with Christ in eternity!

Matthew 27:50-53 NIV

1 Thessalonians 4:13-14 NIV

** We find encouragement knowing sorrow and weeping is temporary, with eternal rejoicing coming shortly after for those who believe and trust in Him!

Psalm 30:5 NIV

[5] For his anger lasts only a moment, but his favor lasts a lifetime; weeping may stay for the night, but rejoicing comes in the morning.

** After almost two millennia, many scoffers have come in every generation mocking the return of our Lord

• There is no 'delay' in Jesus' return, for He has appointed a specific time in the future when the world will be judged by fire <S2001>

• Just like in the days of Noah when he worked on the ark for (minimum) 70 years without rain in sight, so we need to hold fast to God's promises when it seems ridiculous to many because He WILL fulfill them one day

• Truth is: just because it SEEMS as though Jesus has delayed His coming, doesn't mean He isn't going to come <K110>

• As believers in Christ, let the others mock but remain awake watching for the hand of the Lord!

2 Peter 3:4 NIV

[4] They will say, “Where is this 'coming' he promised? Ever since our ancestors died, everything goes on as it has since the beginning of creation.”

** Those who place their faith in Jesus Christ will enjoy God's new heaven and earth when He expires the current edition

• A Jewish Yeshiva University philosophy professor, Rabbi Bronstein, shared his thoughts with a global audience regarding God's evolving plan

• He claimed the Bible is a story that has a beginning, middle, and an end -- and we are the characters writing its final chapters

• This isn’t about ancient prophecies coming true, but about understanding ourselves as active participants in a divine narrative that began with creation and is racing toward its climactic conclusion

• He stated how the Bible begins with Genesis when God created the heavens and the earth, and will end with an eschatological perfect world where God’s presence is revealed for all to see

• In between, the story unfolds where God is constantly trying to push the world from creation to redemption

• Bronstein, an orthodox rabbi, is persuaded that God’s story of humankind is right and true and he can see it developing into a 'happy ending' <J100>

Isaiah 60:12-14 NIV

[12] For the nation or kingdom that will not serve you will perish; it will be utterly ruined. [13] “The glory of Lebanon will come to you, the juniper, the fir and the cypress together, to adorn my sanctuary; and I will glorify the place for my feet. [14] The children of your oppressors will come bowing before you; all who despise you will bow down at your feet and will call you the City of the Lord, Zion of the Holy One of Israel.

• Israel’s Messiah, Yeshua, will return and destroy Israel’s enemies as prophesied in Joel 3, Zechariah 14, Isaiah 63, Matthew 25, Revelation 19, and so forth

• When Israel’s Messiah returns, He is going to fix the mess this world has become as a result of sinful man <G7995>

• But this rabbi, along with all who hold to a faith in Judaism, will find there is no happy ending for those who rejected God’s offer of salvation through His only begotten Son, Jesus Christ

• There is an ending to God's story, but God already wrote the final chapter; we are simply waiting for it to play out and eagerly living for Him in the meanwhile

• When the final chapter is completed for the current world, followers of Christ will be able to enjoy God's new creation in their new bodies!

1 Corinthians 15:54 NIV

[54] When the perishable has been clothed with the imperishable, and the mortal with immortality, then the saying that is written will come true: “Death has been swallowed up in victory.”

Revelation 21:1-2,26-27 NIV

Revelation 22:14,16-17 NIV

[14] “Blessed are those who wash their robes, that they may have the right to the tree of life and may go through the gates into the city. [16] “I, Jesus, have sent my angel to give you this testimony for the churches. I am the Root and the Offspring of David, and the bright Morning Star.” [17] The Spirit and the bride say, “Come!” And let the one who hears say, “Come!” Let the one who is thirsty come; and let the one who wishes take the free gift of the water of life.

** There is a lot of discussion in these days of trans humanism and what it means to be human; we know for certain from God's Creation Story <A10> (Jul 2025)

• From a Biblical point of view, we were created in the image of God!

• Trans humanists are trying to create god but those who are already part of the family of Christ know that we 'started at the top' by being made in His image and don't need the technological help

• The tools of technology can not be used to create anything that even compares to what God already designed

• Don't look to technology for salvation but root yourself in the Gospel of Christ and remember the price God paid to participate in His righteousness

• In doing so, we will shed our sin-filled bodies and 'return to Adam', returning to what God designed us to be from the start, before humans became corrupted

Genesis 1:26 NIV

[26] Then God said, “Let us make mankind in our image, in our likeness, so that they may rule over the fish in the sea and the birds in the sky, over the livestock and all the wild animals, and over all the creatures that move along the ground.”

** If your life were to end today, would you be able to say that you’ve fought the good fight, finished the race, and guarded the faith in the way that you live? If so, then Paul’s reward of a crown of righteousness which the Lord will give on the day of his return will be yours as well <L120>

2 Timothy 4:7-8 NIV

[7] I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. [8] Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day---and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing.

** Some day, there will be a great reunion in eternity with our loved ones <S188>

1 Thessalonians 4:17-18 NIV

[17] After that, we who are still alive and are left will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And so we will be with the Lord forever. [18] Therefore encourage one another with these words.

** The Holy Spirit is God’s deposit, His show of good faith that He’s serious about His commitment to His followers

• God indwells believers with the Holy Spirit, so they can become 'partakers of divine nature' (2 Peter 1:4)

• The riches of God are available to us because God, by His grace, fills us with His Holy Spirit enabling us to live more like Christ, in whom the fullness dwells (Eph 5:18–20)

• Even though the absolute fullness of God is unknowable for finite creatures, God chooses to communicate with His creatures, offering them new life in Christ

• God indwells in those who believe in Him by the Holy Spirit, ultimately filling them with His fullness <G72>

2 Peter 1:4 NIV

[4] Through these he has given us his very great and precious promises, so that through them you may participate in the divine nature, having escaped the corruption in the world caused by evil desires.

Ephesians 5:18-20 NIV

[18] Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead, be filled with the Spirit, [19] speaking to one another with psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit. Sing and make music from your heart to the Lord, [20] always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.

• In essence, the Holy Spirit is an 'upfront deposit' of His indwelling given to followers

• 'Final delivery' will occur when believers enter Heaven to be with God in all His glory

• Until that time, the Holy Spirit lives within believers, courtesy of God, as a reminder of the value He places on them <L120>

Ephesians 1:18-19 NIV

[18] I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in his holy people, [19] and his incomparably great power for us who believe. That power is the same as the mighty strength

** Followers of Christ will be like Jesus when He appears for us; we will be like Him! <S1993>

• God has predestined us for this union

• God’s goal for His believers will be fulfilled

• Our being like Him will be a supreme tribute to Jesus, as the Chief among many

• We will see Christ as He truly is!

Colossians 3:4 NIV

[4] When Christ, who is your life, appears, then you also will appear with him in glory.

2 Corinthians 3:18 NIV

[18] And we all, who with unveiled faces contemplate the Lord's glory, are being transformed into his image with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit.

1 John 3:2-3 NIV

[2] Dear friends, now we are children of God, and what we will be has not yet been made known. But we know that when Christ appears, we shall be like him, for we shall see him as he is. [3] All who have this hope in him purify themselves, just as he is pure.

** Do we realize that as New Testament saints, we will take part in the most spectacular event the world will ever see? <B26>

• Some in the prophecy world combine events of the Rapture and Second Coming

• This viewpoint negates the possibility of the believer's thrilling return with Jesus, and doesn’t allow for sin and death in the Millennium

• Nor does it fit with the restoration of a kingdom for Israel since the Jewish people would meet Jesus in the air along with all the other members of the New Testament Church

• Those who believe in a 'combined event' and deny the Lord’s millennial rule, must make the Church Age the time when God puts all things in subjection to Himself and forever destroys death (1 Cor 15:24-28)

• Do we see Jesus bringing 'all things in subjection under Him' in our world during the current age?

• No, the world is rapidly trending in precisely the opposite direction

• Separating the Rapture and Second Coming confirms the believer's participation in the most spectacular event that the world will ever see (Rev 19:11-16)

• Nothing in the history or future of our planet is even remotely comparable to the astonishing sight of Jesus’ future return to the world in great glory and power -- and we, as the armies of heaven, will be by His side!

Revelation 19:11-16 NIV

[11] I saw heaven standing open and there before me was a white horse, whose rider is called Faithful and True. With justice he judges and wages war. [12] His eyes are like blazing fire, and on his head are many crowns. He has a name written on him that no one knows but he himself. [13] He is dressed in a robe dipped in blood, and his name is the Word of God. [14] The armies of heaven were following him, riding on white horses and dressed in fine linen, white and clean. [15] Coming out of his mouth is a sharp sword with which to strike down the nations. “He will rule them with an iron scepter.” He treads the winepress of the fury of the wrath of God Almighty. [16] On his robe and on his thigh he has this name written: king of kings and lord of lords.

1 Corinthians 15:24-28 NIV

[24] Then the end will come, when he hands over the kingdom to God the Father after he has destroyed all dominion, authority and power. [25] For he must reign until he has put all his enemies under his feet. [26] The last enemy to be destroyed is death. [27] For he “has put everything under his feet.” Now when it says that “everything” has been put under him, it is clear that this does not include God himself, who put everything under Christ. [28] When he has done this, then the Son himself will be made subject to him who put everything under him, so that God may be all in all.

** The Jewish people will argue they do not believe in Jesus because He did not leave them peace; they are looking for a political outward peace, while Jesus provides an inner peace of the heart <W213>

• Even in the first century, the Jews were excited about Jesus when He was performing miracles and acting as a conqueror

• Once there is mention of the need for inner spiritual restoration they lose interest in Jesus

• Jesus made it clear we need to be concerned about righteousness before we can be accepted into His kingdom <G70>

John 14:27 NIV

[27] Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.

Matthew 5:20 NIV

[20] For I tell you that unless your righteousness surpasses that of the Pharisees and the teachers of the law, you will certainly not enter the kingdom of heaven.

** King Solomon had absolutely everything a person could want in this world, and understood it is all meaningless when compared to the eternal glory and promises of God <G71>

Ecclesiastes 12:8 NIV

[8] “Meaningless! Meaningless!” says the Teacher. “Everything is meaningless! ”

** Paul applies the imagery and symbolism of marriage to the body of believers in Corinth, known as the church <G72>

• The church is comprised of those who have trusted in Jesus Christ as their personal Savior and have received eternal life

• Christ, the Bridegroom, has sacrificially and lovingly chosen the church to be His bride

• Just as there was a betrothal period in biblical times during which the bride and groom were separated until the wedding, so is the bride of Christ separate from her Bridegroom during the church age

• Believers in Jesus Christ are the bride of Christ, and we wait with great anticipation for the day when we will be united with our Bridegroom

• Her responsibility during the betrothal period is to be faithful to Him

• At the rapture, the church will be united with the Bridegroom and the official “wedding ceremony” will take place and, with it, the eternal union of Christ and His bride will be actualized (Rev 19:7, Rev 21:1-2)

2 Corinthians 11:2 NIV

[2] I am jealous for you with a godly jealousy. I promised you to one husband, to Christ, so that I might present you as a pure virgin to him.

Revelation 19:7 NIV

[7] Let us rejoice and be glad and give him glory! For the wedding of the Lamb has come, and his bride has made herself ready.

Revelation 21:1-2 NIV

** Some see the Garden of Eden not as a physical location but a spiritual one; when Adam and Eve sinned, they lost their ability to experience the Garden spiritually and were banished from the Garden <M1501>

• God blocked man's ability to access the Tree of Life but will open the way again when He deals with evil once and for all

• Believers in Christ will be able to enter once again when Jesus returns to establish His kingdom and the enemy is banished forever

Genesis 3:23-24 NIV

[23] So the Lord God banished him from the Garden of Eden to work the ground from which he had been taken. [24] After he drove the man out, he placed on the east side of the Garden of Eden cherubim and a flaming sword flashing back and forth to guard the way to the tree of life.

Revelation 20:10 NIV

[10] And the devil, who deceived them, was thrown into the lake of burning sulfur, where the beast and the false prophet had been thrown. They will be tormented day and night for ever and ever.

** We can experience everlasting hope and overwhelming peace when we believe in God and commit our lives to Him; it is by His grace we stand justified

• The very first benefit of the believer’s new relationship with God that Paul mentioned was ‘peace’

• Paul lets us know we have gained access to God’s grace and our future is filled with joy because our future is sure <R1795>

Romans 5:1-2 NIV

[1] Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, [2] through whom we have gained access by faith into this grace in which we now stand. And we boast in the hope of the glory of God.

** Two angels reminded the women visitors of Jesus' words, that He was to raise on the third day and fulfill Scripture

• It was only when the women saw the angel and were reminded by him that Jesus had promised to rise again that they remembered

• If they had remembered earlier, how different they would have felt during the nights and days Jesus’ body lay in the grave

• If they had remembered earlier, they would have come to the tomb with hope and expectation

• Likewise, the grave will not hold those who die believing in Christ – our tomb will be empty as well, for as Jesus arose, so will we! <R1795>

Luke 24:4-8 NIV

[4] While they were wondering about this, suddenly two men in clothes that gleamed like lightning stood beside them. [5] In their fright the women bowed down with their faces to the ground, but the men said to them, “Why do you look for the living among the dead? [6] He is not here; he has risen! Remember how he told you, while he was still with you in Galilee: [7] ‘The Son of Man must be delivered over to the hands of sinners, be crucified and on the third day be raised again.’ ” [8] Then they remembered his words.

Luke 24:44-47 NIV

[44] [Jesus] said to [His disciples], “This is what I told you while I was still with you: Everything must be fulfilled that is written about me in the Law of Moses, the Prophets and the Psalms.” [45] Then he opened their minds so they could understand the Scriptures. [46] He told them, “This is what is written: The Messiah will suffer and rise from the dead on the third day, [47] and repentance for the forgiveness of sins will be preached in his name to all nations, beginning at Jerusalem.

** When Jesus told Martha her brother would 'rise again', she knew Lazarus would rise again in the resurrection on the last day; Martha asserted faith in a bodily resurrection <B26>

John 11:23-24 NIV

[23] Jesus said to her, “Your brother will rise again.” [24] Martha answered, “I know he will rise again in the resurrection at the last day.”

** Paul is telling us that to be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord. There isn’t even a twinkling of an eye of time between the last heartbeat and bursting onto that glorious scene -- not one fraction of a second.

Stephen, the first Christian martyr, as he was being stoned, saw the Lord Jesus Christ, Himself, stand from the right hand of God’s throne to welcome Stephen into glory. <J100>

Acts 7:59 NIV

[59] While they were stoning him, Stephen prayed, “Lord Jesus, receive my spirit.”

** The term ‘twinkling of an eye’ has been calculated by experts to be considerably less than one second <H91>

• In fact, scientists and mathematicians calculate 'twinkling of an eye' as considerably less than 1/100th of a second

• That’s the speed that the Father will use to remove all of the Savior’s flock from this earth

• We must remember that time was made for humans, and the Father is not bound by our limitations

1 Corinthians 15:52 NIV

[52] in a flash, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet. For the trumpet will sound, the dead will be raised imperishable, and we will be changed.

** What we are experiencing is a world where the vast majority choose to deny God, and we see the resultant corruption and evil (Aug 2024)

• No wonder most people want to get off this 'merry-go-round of evil'

• But no one needs to exit from the world in order to find relief

• Every individual can accept Christ's offer of salvation to know true peace and joy, regardless of circumstances

• Invite God into your life to make this world livable until Jesus comes back

• All of God's children are promised a place He has waiting for us after we endure this world!!

John 14:1-3 NIV

[1] “Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God ; believe also in me. [2] My Father's house has many rooms; if that were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you? [3] And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am.

2 Corinthians 7:1 NIV

[1] Therefore, since we have these promises, dear friends, let us purify ourselves from everything that contaminates body and spirit, perfecting holiness out of reverence for God.

** The very best that you have ever experienced on this earth or ever will experience will be vastly better in Heaven, for it will answer the ache in your heart for a place you have never even seen <L120>

Hebrews 10:1 NIV

[1] The law is only a shadow of the good things that are coming---not the realities themselves. For this reason it can never, by the same sacrifices repeated endlessly year after year, make perfect those who draw near to worship.

** Mary stood outside the tomb crying. As she wept, she bent over to look into the tomb and saw two angels in white sitting where Jesus’ body had been, one at the head and the other at the foot. They asked her, “Woman, why are you crying?”

“They have taken my Lord away,” she said, “and I don’t know where they have put Him.” One of the angels informed her and the other Mary who also had arrived at the tomb that Jesus had risen from the dead.

Imagine the shock but also the thrill Mary must have felt upon hearing such news about Jesus rising from the dead. Her precious Lord and Savior, whom she loved so dearly.

Mary’s heart must have been bursting with hope and excitement, and her mind certainly must have been racing as she thought to tell the other followers of Jesus all about the things she had just seen and heard.

On her way back to the others, she ran into a man on the trail whom she at first mistook for the gardener. He asked her, “Woman, why are you crying? Who is it you are looking for?” Thinking He was the gardener, she said “Sir, if you have carried Him away, tell me where you have put Him, and I will get Him.” Then the man spoke her name.

“Mary,” he said, in what to her would have been a very familiar voice.

When she realized it was Jesus, we can only imagine what went through her heart and her mind and her soul.

Mary’s entire being must have leapt with truly unimaginable joy. She turned toward Him and cried out in Aramaic, “Rabboni!” which means teacher.

I cannot help but wonder if meeting the Lord Jesus and seeing Him face to face for the first time will fill our hearts with a similar kind of joy and amazement and wonder as Mary Magdalene felt when she met Jesus on the trail right after He had risen. I anticipate that it will be the most wonderful thing that has ever happened to each of us who is blessed with the gift of Eternal Salvation. <S2000>

John 20:1 NIV

[1] Early on the first day of the week, while it was still dark, Mary Magdalene went to the tomb and saw that the stone had been removed from the entrance.

** Those that say the church is now God’s kingdom, or an outpost of it, contradict the words that Paul wrote to the Corinthians. There he identifies “the kingdom of God” as our future inheritance rather than our current possession.

Paul says it’s impossible for us to receive our inheritance of the “kingdom of God” in our current state. The apostle’s words negate all teachings that claim the church is God’s kingdom either in its current or future state. Such things cannot happen while we exist in “flesh and blood” bodies.

The good news is that Jesus will make us fit for His kingdom when he appears, raises the dead “in Christ” with “imperishable bodies,” and also gives those of us who are alive at the time immortality. <B26>

1 Corinthians 15:50-55 NIV

[50] I declare to you, brothers and sisters, that flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God, nor does the perishable inherit the imperishable. [51] Listen, I tell you a mystery: We will not all sleep, but we will all be changed--- [52] in a flash, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet. For the trumpet will sound, the dead will be raised imperishable, and we will be changed. [53] For the perishable must clothe itself with the imperishable, and the mortal with immortality. [54] When the perishable has been clothed with the imperishable, and the mortal with immortality, then the saying that is written will come true: “Death has been swallowed up in victory.” [55] “Where, O death, is your victory? Where, O death, is your sting?”

James 2:5 NIV

[5] Listen, my dear brothers and sisters: Has not God chosen those who are poor in the eyes of the world to be rich in faith and to inherit the kingdom he promised those who love him?

** People who rely on their own learning and understanding can think Christians insane for believing the 'unbelievable'

• Festus, completely out of his depth, interrupted Paul’s talk of resurrection

• To the Roman, whose viewpoint was limited to this world, talk of the dead coming to life was mad indeed

• Many today share Festus’ view that life is limited to our brief days on this earth: we live and death is the end <R1795>

Acts 26:24 NIV

[24] At this point Festus interrupted Paul’s defense. “You are out of your mind, Paul!” he shouted. “Your great learning is driving you insane.”

** We can't know what Christ meant by 'kingdom' without understanding everything that was said about the kingdom from the Old Testament <W213>

• Prophets indicated the kingdom will be a time when there is no more war, worldwide agricultural prosperity, Jesus ruling with a rod of iron from Jerusalem, etc

• Believers are to pray for this kingdom when God's name will be revered again

Matthew 6:10 NIV

[10] your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.

** The promise Jesus made was not that some would live until Christ’s second coming, but that some would see the glory that was temporarily masked by His humanity <R1795>

• Rather than interpreting Jesus’ promise as referring to His coming to establish His kingdom on earth, the context indicates that Jesus was referring to the transfiguration

• The ‘transfiguration’ refers to the event when the disciples saw Jesus in all His glory and splendor, talking with a glorified Moses and Elijah

• This is a glimpse of what will occur in Jesus’ kingdom <G72>

Matthew 16:28 NIV

[28] “Truly I tell you, some who are standing here will not taste death before they see the Son of Man coming in his kingdom.”

Luke 9:27 NIV

[27] “Truly I tell you, some who are standing here will not taste death before they see the kingdom of God.”

Mark 9:1-4 NIV

[1] And he said to them, “Truly I tell you, some who are standing here will not taste death before they see that the kingdom of God has come with power.” [2] After six days Jesus took Peter, James and John with him and led them up a high mountain, where they were all alone. There he was transfigured before them. [3] His clothes became dazzling white, whiter than anyone in the world could bleach them. [4] And there appeared before them Elijah and Moses, who were talking with Jesus.

** There are 5 manifestations of God’s kingdom:

1. Eternal

2. Theocratic (Israel was under this)

3. Mystery

4. Messianic

5. Spiritual (made up of believers past, present and future)

• The Mystery kingdom started when the Jews rejected Jesus and put the whole nation in timeout; individuals could become Christian and God focused on building the Church Age

• The revealing of the Messianic kingdom is put on hold while the Mystery kingdom is in play

• Some believe the holocaust in WWII was punishment of the Jews for rejecting Jesus the first time and now there is a delay in revealing the Messianic kingdom while the Mystery kingdom is revealed

• Jesus explains the Mystery kingdom in Matthew with the parables of wheat & tares, when we will be able to tell the difference (visually by color) during the time of harvest

• We must expect there will be unbelievers in the Church yet are surprised during these last days there are more tares than remnant believers!

Matthew 13:24-30 NIV

[24] Jesus told them another parable: “The kingdom of heaven is like a man who sowed good seed in his field. [25] But while everyone was sleeping, his enemy came and sowed weeds among the wheat, and went away. [26] When the wheat sprouted and formed heads, then the weeds also appeared. [27] “The owner's servants came to him and said, 'Sir, didn't you sow good seed in your field? Where then did the weeds come from?' [28] “ 'An enemy did this,' he replied. “The servants asked him, 'Do you want us to go and pull them up?' [29] “ 'No,' he answered, 'because while you are pulling the weeds, you may uproot the wheat with them. [30] Let both grow together until the harvest. At that time I will tell the harvesters: First collect the weeds and tie them in bundles to be burned; then gather the wheat and bring it into my barn.' ”

Matthew 13:40-43 NIV

[40] “As the weeds are pulled up and burned in the fire, so it will be at the end of the age. [41] The Son of Man will send out his angels, and they will weed out of his kingdom everything that causes sin and all who do evil. [42] They will throw them into the blazing furnace, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth. [43] Then the righteous will shine like the sun in the kingdom of their Father. Whoever has ears, let them hear.

• Jesus continues with another parable about the mustard seed; the church will grow huge (as from a mustard seed) with birds (satanic agents that deny the tenants of the Christian faith) perching in its branches infiltrating its space

• For centuries Satan has been successful at infiltrating churches, seminaries, homes, etc and the church has failed at pointing out heresy; here we are today with the majority of the church being apostate; sincere believers are still saved but ineffective

Trends today (Feb 2021) include:

• Integrating cultural Marxist views with Christianity; such as social justice, gender, “love is love”, and critical race thinking

• No consequences anymore for sin

• Pastors not knowing Scripture or its application to fend off evil, proving to be hirelings

• Silence from the pulpit giving Scriptural help to those with real issues

• Churches partnering with activist groups

• Thinking God’s reaction to sin is compassion; what Bible are they reading for God has wrath toward sin but compassion to those who earnestly come to Him in repentance

• Churches not opening when stats prove they can

• Lack of believers being fed

• Those who call themselves Christian willingly following false teachers even when they are exposed

• So-called Christian artists leading sinful lifestyles and no one challenging them

Matthew 13:31-32 NIV

[31] He told them another parable: “The kingdom of heaven is like a mustard seed, which a man took and planted in his field. [32] Though it is the smallest of all seeds, yet when it grows, it is the largest of garden plants and becomes a tree, so that the birds come and perch in its branches.”

Luke 13:18-19 NIV

[18] Then Jesus asked, “What is the kingdom of God like? What shall I compare it to? [19] It is like a mustard seed, which a man took and planted in his garden. It grew and became a tree, and the birds perched in its branches.”

• We are now in the harvest period when we can tell the difference between wheat & tares

• The Mystery kingdom and Church Age will end one day when the Messianic kingdom will once again become God’s focus at His second coming <H86>

** From the instant of conversion, we will never again be subject to the sin nature that all humans were endowed with through the first sin in the Garden of Eden <H91>

1 John 3:2 NIV

[2] Dear friends, now we are children of God, and what we will be has not yet been made known. But we know that when Christ appears, we shall be like him, for we shall see him as he is.

** When they took Jesus down from the cross, He promised, like God had promised to the prophets 1000 years earlier, that His body would not undergo decay; they put Jesus in the tomb and three days later the tomb was empty because He had resurrected from the dead <H90>

Psalm 16:10 NIV

[10] because you will not abandon me to the realm of the dead, nor will you let your faithful one see decay.

Luke 24:44-46 NIV

[44] He said to them, “This is what I told you while I was still with you: Everything must be fulfilled that is written about me in the Law of Moses, the Prophets and the Psalms.” [45] Then he opened their minds so they could understand the Scriptures. [46] He told them, “This is what is written: The Messiah will suffer and rise from the dead on the third day,

John 2:22 NIV

[22] After he was raised from the dead, his disciples recalled what he had said. Then they believed the scripture and the words that Jesus had spoken.

• Do you know that Jesus ascended into heaven and is seated at the right hand of the Father?

• He’s saving for Himself a people from every tribe, tongue, and nation

• Those who believe in a resurrected Christ will be with Him one day!

Job 19:25-26 NIV

[25] I know that my redeemer lives, and that in the end he will stand on the earth. [26] And after my skin has been destroyed, yet in my flesh I will see God;

** Joseph had his brothers swear an oath to take him to the land of Canaan for his burial after he died

• When God did bring the Hebrews out of Egypt and give them the Promised Land, Joseph’s body was to be carried with them

• Joseph did not view death as the end but looked beyond his own time and found comfort in what God would do in the future

• Death’s sting still hurts, but we know that the death of the believer’s body is an induction into a full experience of eternal life with Christ <R1795>

Genesis 50:24-26 NIV

[24] Then Joseph said to his brothers, “I am about to die. But God will surely come to your aid and take you up out of this land to the land he promised on oath to Abraham, Isaac and Jacob.” [25] And Joseph made the Israelites swear an oath and said, “God will surely come to your aid, and then you must carry my bones up from this place.” [26] So Joseph died at the age of a hundred and ten. And after they embalmed him, he was placed in a coffin in Egypt.

** Believers will be changed at the exact moment of the Rapture and instantaneously receive new bodies <P168>

• Our bodies will change from the original earthly, sinful, temporal vessels to new, eternal, heavenly bodies

• The Bible compares our new body to upgrading from a temporary tent to an eternal house

2 Corinthians 5:1 NIV

[1] For we know that if the earthly tent we live in is destroyed, we have a building from God, an eternal house in heaven, not built by human hands.

• This new body will be eternal and sinless because it was already washed clean by Jesus who dealt with our sin condition on the cross

• Our new body will resemble the new body Jesus received at His resurrection

Philippians 3:20-21 NIV

** All human distinctions are lost when coming to Jesus; every man becomes a supplicant no matter how high his worldly position

• The centurion was a Roman army officer who had soldiers under his charge, yet he knew he was not worthy in the presence of Jesus

• In bowing before a mere Jew, the Roman centurion affirmed a great truth – the most important rank a human being can carry is that of subject to the King of kings <R1795>

Matthew 8:5-8 NIV

[5] When Jesus had entered Capernaum, a centurion came to him, asking for help. [6] “Lord,” he said, “my servant lies at home paralyzed, suffering terribly.” [7] Jesus said to him, “Shall I come and heal him?” [8] The centurion replied, “Lord, I do not deserve to have you come under my roof. But just say the word, and my servant will be healed.

** Christian saints are heirs to Christ's kingdom as confirmed throughout New Testament writings <B26>

• The word 'heir' implies relationship and allows allotted possession of something because of sonship to God

• What belongs to Jesus will also belong to those who believe <G72>

• Since we become His children when we accept His offer of salvation and live for Him, we become heirs to His inheritance

• Believers in Christ are promised an inheritance of a heavenly kingdom that will never perish if they share in Christ's sufferings

• We share in the sufferings of Christ now and will share in the glory of Christ later

• We all tend to like the message of sharing in the riches of Christ’s inheritance, but sharing in His sufferings doesn’t have the same appeal

Romans 8:17 NIV

[17] Now if we are children, then we are heirs---heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ, if indeed we share in his sufferings in order that we may also share in his glory.

Titus 3:7 NIV

[7] so that, having been justified by his grace, we might become heirs having the hope of eternal life

James 2:5 NIV

[5] Listen, my dear brothers and sisters: Has not God chosen those who are poor in the eyes of the world to be rich in faith and to inherit the kingdom he promised those who love him?

• Christian saints are heirs to something they won’t possess in their earthly life, for the inheritance of the saints involves eternity with the Lord in heaven

• This inheritance will neither fade nor spoil

• Jesus Himself will provide the inheritance at His second coming (Dan 7:13-14, 24; Matt 24:30, 26:64)

• Believers in Christ will rule with Him in the heavenly kingdom when He takes them to glory

John 14:2-3 NIV

[2] My Father's house has many rooms; if that were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you? [3] And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am.

1 Peter 1:3-4 NIV

Colossians 3:4 NIV

[4] When Christ, who is your life, appears, then you also will appear with him in glory.

** We are not alone. God is with us at ALL times. It's when we doubt, that our constant questioning ends up hurting us and God.

An example comes to mind of a loving parent who adopts a child into their home. The child is a legal heir to everything the parent has, just as a natural born child could expect. Yet, the adopted child continually questions over and over and over again, whether they are REALLY adopted and are REALLY an heir to the inheritance...?

Instead of being filled with joy and thanksgiving that the parent legally adopted the child out of love, the child continues to waste time and forego opportunities and blessings that come with the position. How needlessly tragic.

May the followers of Christ who have accepted His offer of salvation REST in knowing their adoption into His family is legal and complete. Their future is secure, regardless what the enemy keeps whispering in their ear!

Ephesians 1:18 NIV

[18] I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in his holy people

1 Peter 1:3-4 NIV

Psalm 91:1-4 NIV

[1] Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. [2] I will say of the Lord, “He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.” [3] Surely he will save you from the fowler's snare and from the deadly pestilence. [4] He will cover you with his feathers, and under his wings you will find refuge; his faithfulness will be your shield and rampart.

** Gentiles benefit by the hardening of Israel's heart and will benefit by Israel's restoration

• Gentiles are offered salvation because of the Jewish transgression and they will also benefit by Israel's restoration to God

• Christians have the hope of God’s promised deliverance and look forward to the time when He fulfills that promise

• God has also made promises of redemption to Israel: one day the nation will receive her Messiah and will be restored just as God has promised <G72>

• The entire world will be blessed through God's promise to Israel

• Christians need to stand with the Word of God and the promises He made to Israel thousands of years ago <G77>

Romans 11:2,11-12 NIV

[2] God did not reject his people, whom he foreknew. Don't you know what Scripture says in the passage about Elijah---how he appealed to God against Israel: [11] Again I ask: Did they stumble so as to fall beyond recovery? Not at all! Rather, because of their transgression, salvation has come to the Gentiles to make Israel envious. [12] But if their transgression means riches for the world, and their loss means riches for the Gentiles, how much greater riches will their full inclusion bring!

** We are given the choice of putting our hope in either man's version of utopia (for the elite) or God's promise of eternity

• Man's option involves humans being transformed as the WEF (and their allies) desire via 'Transhumanism'

• Or we can align with Christ and allow Him to transform us into glorious righteousness <C36>

• Transhumanists want nothing to do with God so they offer Satan's counterfeit alternative to God's promises

• The efforts of WEF's Human 2.0 program is to bring heaven to earth through a promise of:

a) Super-wellbeing via genetic modification, so a person can look as they want, not get sick or grow tired, etc

b) Super-intelligence, even though (in reality) the elites would keep that for themselves so they remain superior to others

c) Super-longevity so people can live forever <C36>

• God promises His followers they can join Him in heaven when raptured or upon their death

• There is only one eternal kingdom; God's kingdom is eternal while all others have a page in a history book <D40>

2 Corinthians 3:18 NIV

[18] And we all, who with unveiled faces contemplate the Lord's glory, are being transformed into his image with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit.

Philippians 3:20-21 NIV

John 14:2-3 NIV

** Advocates of Transhumanism (Human 2.0) promising that people can live forever will realize the folly of their ways when God, who is the Author of life and determines the number of our days, shows them who is really in control <C36>

Job 14:5 NIV

[5] A person's days are determined; you have decreed the number of his months and have set limits he cannot exceed.

Psalm 2:1-5 NIV

** Lot's wife looked back with a yearning of the life she was leaving, even though she knew of Sodom's corruption; this is a good reminder that we will be taken from this world one day and will not look back <O1591>

Genesis 19:15-17,26 NIV

[15] With the coming of dawn, the angels urged Lot, saying, “Hurry! Take your wife and your two daughters who are here, or you will be swept away when the city is punished. ” [16] When he hesitated, the men grasped his hand and the hands of his wife and of his two daughters and led them safely out of the city, for the Lord was merciful to them. [17] As soon as they had brought them out, one of them said, “Flee for your lives! Don't look back, and don't stop anywhere in the plain! Flee to the mountains or you will be swept away!” [26] But Lot's wife looked back, and she became a pillar of salt.

John 14:2-3 NIV

** Believers in Christ are instructed not to be afraid of death; in essence, God is saying, “Don’t be afraid. I’ve been there. I have come back. It is covered.” <L120>

Revelation 1:17-18 NIV

[17] When I saw him, I fell at his feet as though dead. Then he placed his right hand on me and said: “Do not be afraid. I am the First and the Last. [18] I am the Living One; I was dead, and now look, I am alive for ever and ever! And I hold the keys of death and Hades.

** Believers in Christ will obtain new immortal bodies when Christ returns for all New Testament believers; those still alive will be caught up after Christ resurrects those who had fallen asleep (died) <G70>

• True Christians are already the children of God (members of the body of Christ), and we do not yet know what we shall be in the future

• We do know, however, that when Jesus comes to resurrect and/or rapture us, we will be like Him with a new glorified body like the glorified, resurrected body of Jesus <D41>

1 Thessalonians 4:16-17 NIV

1 John 3:2 NIV

[2] Dear friends, now we are children of God, and what we will be has not yet been made known. But we know that when Christ appears, we shall be like him, for we shall see him as he is.

1 Corinthians 15:40,42-44 NIV

[40] There are also heavenly bodies and there are earthly bodies; but the splendor of the heavenly bodies is one kind, and the splendor of the earthly bodies is another. [42] So will it be with the resurrection of the dead. The body that is sown is perishable, it is raised imperishable; [43] it is sown in dishonor, it is raised in glory; it is sown in weakness, it is raised in power; [44] it is sown a natural body, it is raised a spiritual body. If there is a natural body, there is also a spiritual body.

• Old Testament believers will be joined to their resurrected bodies at the end of the tribulation period when Jesus returns to earth to set up His millennial kingdom <G72>

Isaiah 26:19 NIV

Hosea 13:14a NIV

[14] “I will deliver this people from the power of the grave; I will redeem them from death. Where, O death, are your plagues? Where, O grave, is your destruction? “

** Jesus only raises a specific group of believers at the Second Coming, but He raises all the “dead in Christ” before catching up the living saints in the air with glorified bodies at the time of the Rapture. <B26>

1 Thessalonians 4:16-17 NIV

** Paul refuted those in Corinth who claimed there was no such thing as a resurrection; if true, he argued, then we must conclude that Jesus didn’t rise from the dead and that would signify that our faith is futile <B26>

1 Corinthians 15:12-19 NIV

[12] But if it is preached that Christ has been raised from the dead, how can some of you say that there is no resurrection of the dead? [13] If there is no resurrection of the dead, then not even Christ has been raised. [14] And if Christ has not been raised, our preaching is useless and so is your faith. [15] More than that, we are then found to be false witnesses about God, for we have testified about God that he raised Christ from the dead. But he did not raise him if in fact the dead are not raised. [16] For if the dead are not raised, then Christ has not been raised either. [17] And if Christ has not been raised, your faith is futile; you are still in your sins. [18] Then those also who have fallen asleep in Christ are lost. [19] If only for this life we have hope in Christ, we are of all people most to be pitied.

** Paul begins verse 20 with the glorious fact that “Christ has been raised from the dead” and in 1 Cor 15:47-57 he sums up our forever hope with the joyous reality of our resurrection as New Testament saints. In language that can’t be misunderstood to mean anything else, the apostle says there’s coming a time when Jesus will raise the dead with imperishable bodies and after that gloriously transform believers still alive.

Because Jesus rose from the dead, our over-the-top blissful hope is that someday we will possess a glorious body like that of our Savior. The sense of verse 20 is that of an “excited anticipation” of Jesus’ appearing. It signifies a yearning of soul for the time that Jesus raises the dead in Christ and wholly transforms us with immortality. I can’t imagine that Paul preached the Gospel apart from adding context to our hope of eternal life, that of our expectation of glorified bodies at Jesus’ appearing. <B26>

1 Corinthians 15:20,49,51-52 NIV

[20] But Christ has indeed been raised from the dead, the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep. [49] And just as we have borne the image of the earthly man, so shall we bear the image of the heavenly man. [51] Listen, I tell you a mystery: We will not all sleep, but we will all be changed--- [52] in a flash, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet. For the trumpet will sound, the dead will be raised imperishable, and we will be changed.

Philippians 3:20-21 NIV

1 Corinthians 15:57 NIV

[57] But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.

** Literally everything in this world is like chaff that can be blown away by the wind, while Christ remains at the center of our existence both now and throughout eternity; how are we living to reflect this reality?

Isaiah 40:21-24 NIV

[21] Do you not know? Have you not heard? Has it not been told you from the beginning? Have you not understood since the earth was founded? [22] He sits enthroned above the circle of the earth, and its people are like grasshoppers. He stretches out the heavens like a canopy, and spreads them out like a tent to live in. [23] He brings princes to naught and reduces the rulers of this world to nothing. [24] No sooner are they planted, no sooner are they sown, no sooner do they take root in the ground, than he blows on them and they wither, and a whirlwind sweeps them away like chaff.

Isaiah 17:12-13 NIV

[12] Woe to the many nations that rage---they rage like the raging sea! Woe to the peoples who roar---they roar like the roaring of great waters! [13] Although the peoples roar like the roar of surging waters, when he rebukes them they flee far away, driven before the wind like chaff on the hills, like tumbleweed before a gale.

Revelation 7:9-10 NIV

[9] After this I looked, and there before me was a great multitude that no one could count, from every nation, tribe, people and language, standing before the throne and before the Lamb. They were wearing white robes and were holding palm branches in their hands. [10] And they cried out in a loud voice: “Salvation belongs to our God, who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb.”

** The full significance of our white garments will not only depict the wedding clothes we will wear at the Marriage Supper of the Lamb, but also place us with the Lord as He rides triumphantly back to Jerusalem to establish His kingdom

• Saints dressed in white will return with Christ

• Do not confuse the 'white garments' with the passage in Isaiah regarding the 'robes of righteousness'

• The white wedding clothes are the rewards or righteous acts performed by the saints <H86>

• The fine linen with which the bride (Church) is clothed in the vision represents the righteous acts of the saints

• At salvation, believers were clothed with Christ’s righteousness, imputed to them

• But now the Church is clothed with a righteousness of its own: the glorified believers are intrinsically righteous, like the holy angels

• No longer will the Church have only an imparted righteousness, but also then an imparted holy perfection <M130>

• Believers in Christ will be with Jesus as He rides back to earth in the most dazzling display of power and glory ever seen upon the earth

• Our 'fine linen, white and pure' marks our participation in the most prophesied and glorious event in all of Scripture and what will be the most dramatic event in all of human history

• It’s mind boggling to imagine that Jesus would bless us in such a way! <B26>

Revelation 19:7-8 NIV

[7] Let us rejoice and be glad and give him glory! For the wedding of the Lamb has come, and his bride has made herself ready. [8] Fine linen, bright and clean, was given her to wear.” (Fine linen stands for the righteous acts of God's holy people.)

** As Jesus prepares a place for us in heaven, He prepares US for that place

• We are uniquely wired a certain way to accomplish what God wants of us

• What we do here on earth is preparing us for our eternal home <F60>

John 14:3 NIV

[3] And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am.

1 Corinthians 12:18,27 NIV

[18] But in fact God has placed the parts in the body, every one of them, just as he wanted them to be. [27] Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it.

** Believers in Christ have immeasurable HOPE when seeing all current signs in the world that point to the end times because that means Jesus Christ is returning to take His children home! <G76>

Luke 21:28 NIV

[28] When these things begin to take place, stand up and lift up your heads, because your redemption is drawing near.”

** Whether believers transition at the Rapture or because their appointed time is completed on this earth, it’ll take just a nano-second to move from this life to the next. So it will be instantaneous… here one moment, the next moment in heaven. Believers don’t die, we just change places. Something to look forward to! <P168>

1 Corinthians 15:52 NIV

[52] in a flash, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet. For the trumpet will sound, the dead will be raised imperishable, and we will be changed.

** Scripture speaks of different rewards in heaven. Since Jesus will be distributing rewards on the basis of what we have done, we can safely say that there will be a time of reward for believers and that the rewards will differ somewhat from person to person. <G72>

• Only those works that survive God’s refining fire have eternal value and will be worthy of reward

• Those valuable works are referred to as “gold, silver, and costly stones” (1 Cor 3:12) and are those things that are built upon the foundation of faith in Christ

• Those works that will not be rewarded are called “wood, hay, and stubble”; these are not evil deeds but shallow activities with no eternal value

• Rewards will be distributed at the “judgment seat of Christ,” a place where believers’ lives will be evaluated for the purpose of rewards

• “Judgment” of believers never refers to punishment for sin; Jesus Christ was punished for our sin when He died on the cross, and God said about us: “I will forgive their wickedness and will remember their sins no more” (Heb 8:12)

• What a glorious thought! The Christian need never fear punishment, but can look forward to crowns of reward that he can cast at the feet of the Savior

Revelation 22:12 NIV

[12] “Look, I am coming soon! My reward is with me, and I will give to each person according to what they have done.

** Man’s resurrected body will be similar to the resurrected body Christ had when He rose from the grave; aspects of our resurrected body will include:

• Physical - since Jesus appeared to 500 witnesses and as demonstrated by Thomas who touched His hands to verify nail-prints

• Spiritual - new immortal body will not be affected by physical barriers, such as doors and walls

• Intellectual - currently we only use a small fraction of our brain but we will have full access to the brain God designed for us; all barriers to learning will be removed

• We will also be able to eat, converse and know one another - demonstrated when Christ ate breakfast with His disciples <W213>

• We will never be able to fathom and exhaust our understanding of God, for “heaven and earth will pass away but His Word will not” <H87>

1 Corinthians 15:42-44 NIV

[42] So will it be with the resurrection of the dead. The body that is sown is perishable, it is raised imperishable; [43] it is sown in dishonor, it is raised in glory; it is sown in weakness, it is raised in power; [44] it is sown a natural body, it is raised a spiritual body. If there is a natural body, there is also a spiritual body.

John 21:12-14 NIV

[12] Jesus said to them, “Come and have breakfast.” None of the disciples dared ask him, “Who are you?” They knew it was the Lord. [13] Jesus came, took the bread and gave it to them, and did the same with the fish. [14] This was now the third time Jesus appeared to his disciples after he was raised from the dead.

John 20:26-27 NIV

[26] A week later his disciples were in the house again, and Thomas was with them. Though the doors were locked, Jesus came and stood among them and said, “Peace be with you!” [27] Then he said to Thomas, “Put your finger here; see my hands. Reach out your hand and put it into my side. Stop doubting and believe.”

John 10:28 NIV

[28] I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one will snatch them out of my hand.

** Jesus appeared to His disciples and others for a period of 40 days as proof of His resurrection

• Jesus’ disciples eventually recognized Him when He offered communion and showed His scars

• Both Luke’s gospel and Acts are addressed to Theophilus, who held high social position

• Theophilus was eager to know all about Jesus

• The content in Acts offers what Jesus continues to do and teach through the church <R1795>

Acts 1:3 NIV

[3] After his suffering, he presented himself to them and gave many convincing proofs that he was alive. He appeared to them over a period of forty days and spoke about the kingdom of God.

Luke 24:15-16 NIV

[15] As they talked and discussed these things with each other, Jesus himself came up and walked along with them; [16] but they were kept from recognizing him.

Luke 24:28-31 NIV

Luke 24:33-35 NIV

[33] They got up and returned at once to Jerusalem. There they found the Eleven and those with them, assembled together [34] and saying, “It is true! The Lord has risen and has appeared to Simon.” [35] Then the two told what had happened on the way, and how Jesus was recognized by them when he broke the bread.

Luke 24:36-40 NIV

[36] While they were still talking about this, Jesus himself stood among them and said to them, “Peace be with you.” [37] They were startled and frightened, thinking they saw a ghost. [38] He said to them, “Why are you troubled, and why do doubts rise in your minds? [39] Look at my hands and my feet. It is I myself! Touch me and see; a ghost does not have flesh and bones, as you see I have.” [40] When he had said this, he showed them his hands and feet.

** John tells us that we can examine the resurrected body of Jesus to get a glimpse of what our resurrected glorified bodies will look like and function one day <E60>

1 John 3:2 NIV

[2] Dear friends, now we are children of God, and what we will be has not yet been made known. But we know that when Christ appears, we shall be like him, for we shall see him as he is.

1. Our new bodies will not have limitations in the natural — Jesus who now has a resurrected body was able to walk through walls and was not confined to physical barriers; the doors were shut but he was able to go through the walls and stand in the midst of His disciples

Luke 24:36-37 NIV

[36] While they were still talking about this, Jesus himself stood among them and said to them, “Peace be with you.” [37] They were startled and frightened, thinking they saw a ghost.

2. Every pain and sorrow will be wiped away — the Lord will allow us to remember the good things in our lives on earth, the things that brought us joy, the birth of our children, our marriages, those moments in our lives that brought joy and laughter, but a passage in Revelation tells us that God will not permit us to remember those things that brought pain and sorrow

Revelation 21:3-4 NIV

[3] And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, “Look! God's dwelling place is now among the people, and he will dwell with them. They will be his people, and God himself will be with them and be their God. [4] 'He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death' or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.”

3. We will have full knowledge and understanding of mysteries — the limitations and partial knowledge we experience in this earthly life will be replaced by a comprehensive understanding of heaven

Think about all of the questions we have had over the years.

• Why did God allow this tragedy or that person to die so young?

• Why did my spouse leave me?

• Why did I have a miscarriage?

All of these questions will be answered and the mysteries unlocked!

1 Corinthians 13:12 NIV

[12] For now we see only a reflection as in a mirror; then we shall see face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known.

4. We will look similar to what we looked like on earth — this part can get a little complicated because when Jesus appeared to his disciples after his resurrection they initially did not recognize him, which raises speculation that we may look much different when we receive our new bodies

Other aspects to consider, however:

• The disciple’s eyes may have been intentionally veiled for a period of time to conceal who Christ was

• When Jesus appeared, he showed Thomas the wounds on his hands and his side that he endured at the crucifixion

John 20:26-27 NIV

5. We will not be given in marriage like on earth — as explained when Jesus was approached with a scenario involving seven brothers

• The first died after he had married, and having no offspring, left his wife to his brother

• Likewise, the second also, and the third, even to the seventh

• Last of all the woman died also

• Jesus was asked whose wife of the seven will she be in the resurrection, to which He replied ‘no one’

Matthew 22:29-30 NIV

[29] Jesus replied, “You are in error because you do not know the Scriptures or the power of God. [30] At the resurrection people will neither marry nor be given in marriage; they will be like the angels in heaven.

6. We will still be eating and drinking — the third time Jesus showed Himself to His disciples after He was raised from the dead, Jesus came and took the bread and gave it to them, and likewise the fish

John 21:12-14 NIV

7. We will no longer need to sleep — as long as we remain in these physical bodies sleep is a necessity so our brains do not literally stop working; however, It appears that in the new heaven and earth, we will no longer need to sleep as we will be in our new spiritual heavenly bodies

Revelation 22:5 NIV

[5] There will be no more night. They will not need the light of a lamp or the light of the sun, for the Lord God will give them light. And they will reign for ever and ever.

8. If we lost a child before the age of accountability then we will see them again — the age of 13 is the most commonly suggested age of accountability based on the Jewish custom that a child becomes an adult at the age of 13; there most likely is not a hard-set age limit since the Lord truly knows the physical development and mindset of each individual child and some will develop faster than others

2 Samuel 12:21-23 NIV

[21] His attendants asked him, “Why are you acting this way? While the child was alive, you fasted and wept, but now that the child is dead, you get up and eat!” [22] He answered, “While the child was still alive, I fasted and wept. I thought, 'Who knows? The Lord may be gracious to me and let the child live.' [23] But now that he is dead, why should I go on fasting? Can I bring him back again? I will go to him, but he will not return to me.”

** Believers in Christ will not simply continue ‘existing as we have on earth’ after death or rapture, but will experience the birth of new spiritual bodies when entering into the new age; we will be changed in a moment into something that far exceeds our understanding

Luke 20:35-36 NIV

[35] But those who are considered worthy of taking part in the age to come and in the resurrection from the dead will neither marry nor be given in marriage, [36] and they can no longer die; for they are like the angels. They are God's children, since they are children of the resurrection.

** Paul assured us that we can go immediately to be with the Lord when we die, but we must place our faith in Him and accept His offer of salvation first!

Philippians 1:22-23 NIV

[22] If I am to go on living in the body, this will mean fruitful labor for me. Yet what shall I choose? I do not know! [23] I am torn between the two: I desire to depart and be with Christ, which is better by far

2 Corinthians 5:8 NIV

[8] We are confident, I say, and would prefer to be away from the body and at home with the Lord.

Acts 7:59 NIV

[59] While they were stoning him, Stephen prayed, “Lord Jesus, receive my spirit.”

** Believers in Christ do not need to entertain any fear regarding what is happening in the world today because we know our final destination <S187>

2 Corinthians 5:8 NIV

[8] We are confident, I say, and would prefer to be away from the body and at home with the Lord.

** God’s people do not need to fear. God delivers. And if He does not deliver, He sustains. And if He does not sustain, He receives us into His everlasting arms — for He is sovereign! God be praised! <M131>

Psalm 59:16-17 NIV

[16] But I will sing of your strength, in the morning I will sing of your love; for you are my fortress, my refuge in times of trouble. [17] You are my strength, I sing praise to you; you, God, are my fortress, my God on whom I can rely.

** Jesus enables the believer in Christ to become righteous through His death on the cross; this discredits any notion of purgatory

• At the point of death, every person is either united with Jesus or not

• The false concept of purgatory is appealing to the masses because it gives a ‘last chance’ for people to gain salvation when they die while still being able to live in sin before death

• Jesus finished the work of salvation by dying and resurrecting

• According to Scripture, we come to faith in Christ and are immediately saved from eternal punishment — nothing else is needed!

• Since humans cannot add to Christ’s offer of salvation, the concept of purgatory is not theologically sound <S188>

2 Corinthians 5:21 NIV

[21] God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.

Hebrews 9:15 NIV

[15] For this reason Christ is the mediator of a new covenant, that those who are called may receive the promised eternal inheritance---now that he has died as a ransom to set them free from the sins committed under the first covenant.

** Every believer is a PILGRIM. He is traveling to his Father's house! He is presently a stranger in a strange land, surrounded by temptations, trials, and foes.

His journey lies through a great and terrible wilderness. Therefore he must not expect a very smooth path or many comfortable accommodations. He will have much to grieve and distress him. His heart will be often burdened with grief and filled with sorrow. Tears are common to the Christian. He feels the unsuitableness of the things of time — to his spirit, profession, and aim. And therefore he confesses,

Psalm 39:12 NIV

[12] “Hear my prayer, Lord, listen to my cry for help; do not be deaf to my weeping. I dwell with you as a foreigner, a stranger, as all my ancestors were.

Weariness and painfulness are his portion now but a rest remains for him! It is a glorious rest. It embraces and includes all that the believer has prayed for and can desire!

• It waits for him at the end of his journey

• It was prepared for him from the foundation of the world

• It is now promised to him in the faithful Word, and

• It will be bestowed upon him when he has fought the good fight and finished his course

Everything at present may appear gloomy and distressing; but ahead of you, believer, everything is glorious, magnificent, and blessed. Press on then. Fight the good fight of faith. Travel on in the strength of Jesus! You are going home and you have a glorious home to go to!

The minute after you have entered your rest, you will forget all the fatigue, all the dangers, and all the difficulties of the way. You will perhaps be filled with wonder, that you should ever have allowed such trifles to vex you, or such little trials to discourage you — with such a glorious end before you. All will be satisfied, all will be full. In a little while, you will see the portal of your Father's house and hear Him say, "Come in, you who are blessed of the Lord, tarry no longer outside! Come, dwell forever with Me!" <S183>

Hebrews 11:13 NIV

[13] All these people were still living by faith when they died. They did not receive the things promised; they only saw them and welcomed them from a distance, admitting that they were foreigners and strangers on earth.

** The Lord has written A BOOK FOR OUR NAMES. Take heart child of God… The fact that our names are written in that book means that our salvation is a matter of absolute certainty; and that all things work together for our good by God's arrangement to secure our predestined end, which is perfect conformity to Christ. When our Lord says, "Rejoice because your names are written in Heaven," He is telling us that we have nothing to fear. All is well with those whose names are written in Heaven! <F67>

Daniel 12:1 NIV

** Bible prophesy is not to scare us but prepare us; our only hope is in Jesus who has overcome the world so let us be prepared for when He returns!

Luke 21:15,28 NIV

[15] For I will give you words and wisdom that none of your adversaries will be able to resist or contradict. [28] When these things begin to take place, stand up and lift up your heads, because your redemption is drawing near.”

Matthew 24:45-47 NIV

[45] “Who then is the faithful and wise servant, whom the master has put in charge of the servants in his household to give them their food at the proper time? [46] It will be good for that servant whose master finds him doing so when he returns. [47] Truly I tell you, he will put him in charge of all his possessions.

John 16:33 NIV

[33] “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”

** Mortal persons with bodies of corruption will be changed from mortal to immortality, passing over death <L127>

The body of every living Christian and deceased believer will be changed into an incorruptible, immortal body like Jesus had when He was raised from the dead <D41>

1 Corinthians 15:47-49 NIV

[47] The first man was of the dust of the earth; the second man is of heaven. [48] As was the earthly man, so are those who are of the earth; and as is the heavenly man, so also are those who are of heaven. [49] And just as we have borne the image of the earthly man, so shall we bear the image of the heavenly man.

1 Corinthians 15:53-54 NIV

[53] For the perishable must clothe itself with the imperishable, and the mortal with immortality. [54] When the perishable has been clothed with the imperishable, and the mortal with immortality, then the saying that is written will come true: “Death has been swallowed up in victory.”

John 11:25-26 NIV

[25] Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die; [26] and whoever lives by believing in me will never die. Do you believe this?”

1 Thessalonians 4:16 NIV

[16] For the Lord himself will come down from heaven, with a loud command, with the voice of the archangel and with the trumpet call of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first.

Romans 8:11 NIV

[11] And if the Spirit of him who raised Jesus from the dead is living in you, he who raised Christ from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies because of his Spirit who lives in you.

** Notice David's expectation for eternity [even during the dark valley experiences]. Not in the sheepfold in the wilderness, but in the house of the Lord!

The dwelling-place of God, the family residence of the Father of mercies and His beloved children. In that house, we shall have all our desires gratified, our prayers answered, and our highest expectations more than realized.

• There we shall dwell in peace, united to all the saints, and enjoying the society of all the ransomed brethren

• All friendship will be unchangeable, and fellowship perpetual and pure

• There we shall dwell and worship — and our worship will be spiritual, pure, and perfect

• There we shall dwell and enjoy — and our enjoyments will be dignified, delightful, and eternal

• There we shall dwell and obey — and our obedience will be perfect, hearty, and perpetual

• There, we shall dwell and rest — and our rest will be sweet, refreshing, and satisfying

• There will be no wilderness storms there

• There will be no cruel, crafty, malignant foes there

O glorious prospect! O sweet anticipation! <S183>

Psalm 23:5-6 NIV

[5] You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. [6] Surely your goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.

John 10:14-15 NIV

[14] “I am the good shepherd; I know my sheep and my sheep know me--- [15] just as the Father knows me and I know the Father---and I lay down my life for the sheep.

Romans 8:17 NIV

[17] Now if we are children, then we are heirs---heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ, if indeed we share in his sufferings in order that we may also share in his glory.

** Before New Testament references to the afterlife, the Old Testament saints (including Job, Abraham, David, Isaiah, Hosea & Joseph) believed in the resurrection of their bodies so they would see God! <D41>

Job 19:26-27 NIV

[26] And after my skin has been destroyed, yet in my flesh I will see God; [27] I myself will see him with my own eyes---I, and not another. How my heart yearns within me!

Hebrews 11:17-19 NIV

[17] By faith Abraham, when God tested him, offered Isaac as a sacrifice. He who had embraced the promises was about to sacrifice his one and only son, [18] even though God had said to him, “It is through Isaac that your offspring will be reckoned.” [19] Abraham reasoned that God could even raise the dead, and so in a manner of speaking he did receive Isaac back from death.

Exodus 13:19 NIV

[19] Moses took the bones of Joseph with him because Joseph had made the Israelites swear an oath. He had said, “God will surely come to your aid, and then you must carry my bones up with you from this place.”

Psalm 16:9-10 NIV

[9] Therefore my heart is glad and my tongue rejoices; my body also will rest secure, [10] because you will not abandon me to the realm of the dead, nor will you let your faithful one see decay.

Isaiah 26:19 NIV

Hosea 13:14 NIV

[14] “I will deliver this people from the power of the grave; I will redeem them from death. Where, O death, are your plagues? Where, O grave, is your destruction? “I will have no compassion

** In the morning the thief was OUT of Christ:

• Far from God and far from righteousness

• The helpless captive of sin

• The child of despair and death

At noon the thief was IN Christ:

• Remembered graciously by the Savior of the lost

• Redeemed with an everlasting redemption

• Endowed with the new heart, and

• Freely and perfectly justified

In the evening the thief was WITH Christ:

• Gazing on the glories of paradise,

• Safe at home with his good Shepherd and adorable Redeemer

What a crowded and memorable day this was in his history! So much was pressed into these few hours. Such a glorious and unprecedented transition they brought, from the cruel cross — to Heaven's glory! <S182>

Luke 23:42-43 NIV

[42] Then he said, “Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom. ” [43] Jesus answered him, “Truly I tell you, today you will be with me in paradise.”

** Those who repent of their sins will be saved from God’s judgment

Luke 11:32 NIV

[32] The men of Nineveh will stand up at the judgment with this generation and condemn it, for they repented at the preaching of Jonah; and now something greater than Jonah is here.

** God designed us for the new heaven and new earth, which we can reflect in our words and actions on a daily basis

We can expect the old to pass away:

• Not in part, like a renovation to the existing, but in whole

• We can expect perfection in the new heaven and earth — from land, plants, to humans without disease, pain, or struggle

• This will include a perfect relationship with God; no sin or barrier will hinder us from approaching our eternal God!

• As a result, we will be fulfilled by God's love

• Worship will be pure and fulfilling, recognizing God throughout eternity

• All relationships we have will be good and we will relate in the right way

• No marriage in heaven because we will have perfect intimacy with God

• Every tear will be wiped away — no death, sadness, or sickness

Revelation 21:1-5 NIV

[1] Then I saw “a new heaven and a new earth,” for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away, and there was no longer any sea. [2] I saw the Holy City, the new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride beautifully dressed for her husband. [3] And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, “Look! God’s dwelling place is now among the people, and he will dwell with them. They will be his people, and God himself will be with them and be their God. [4] ‘He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death’ or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.” [5] He who was seated on the throne said, “I am making everything new!” Then he said, “Write this down, for these words are trustworthy and true.”

Character and provision in the new Heaven and the new earth:

• The kings of the nations will bring their glory to heaven

• As God created cultures in His original design, so will the diversity of culture be represented in heaven

• Our personal uniqueness as individuals will continue

• Economic commerce will continue

• We will continue to be used and grow through eternity; caretakers of creation <C31>

Revelation 21:22-26 NIV

[22] I did not see a temple in the city, because the Lord God Almighty and the Lamb are its temple. [23] The city does not need the sun or the moon to shine on it, for the glory of God gives it light, and the Lamb is its lamp. [24] The nations will walk by its light, and the kings of the earth will bring their splendor into it. [25] On no day will its gates ever be shut, for there will be no night there. [26] The glory and honor of the nations will be brought into it.

Compare the picture of heaven with God's original creation — Genesis 1-3 with second coming/heaven Revelation 21-22

• The tree of life in heaven will provide fruit in order to meet our needs

• The Lord will provide us with everything we need, including light

Revelation 22:1-5 NIV

[1] Then the angel showed me the river of the water of life, as clear as crystal, flowing from the throne of God and of the Lamb [2] down the middle of the great street of the city. On each side of the river stood the tree of life, bearing twelve crops of fruit, yielding its fruit every month. And the leaves of the tree are for the healing of the nations. [3] No longer will there be any curse. The throne of God and of the Lamb will be in the city, and his servants will serve him. [4] They will see his face, and his name will be on their foreheads. [5] There will be no more night. They will not need the light of a lamp or the light of the sun, for the Lord God will give them light. And they will reign for ever and ever.

** God operates in multiple dimensions so we do not fully understand Him or how this world operates <S195>

Ephesians 3:18-19 NIV

[18] may have power, together with all the Lord's holy people, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, [19] and to know this love that surpasses knowledge---that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God.

• God and His ways are simply beyond our knowledge unless He opens our eyes <G77>

2 Kings 6:17 NIV

[17] And Elisha prayed, “Open his eyes, Lord, so that he may see.” Then the Lord opened the servant's eyes, and he looked and saw the hills full of horses and chariots of fire all around Elisha.

** A dead man was revived when his body touched Elisha’s bones in his tomb

• This miracle proved that God continued working in the relationship to Elisha even after his death <M130>

• This miracle symbolizes the power of God to restore the nation as well as the individual; even when all hope is lost, God is able to bring life and victory <R1795>

2 Kings 13:20-21 NIV

[20] Elisha died and was buried. Now Moabite raiders used to enter the country every spring. [21] Once while some Israelites were burying a man, suddenly they saw a band of raiders; so they threw the man's body into Elisha's tomb. When the body touched Elisha's bones, the man came to life and stood up on his feet.

** God will acknowledge and reward those who are victorious, remaining true to Him; He will also ensure others recognize those who are faithful to Him as well

Revelation 3:4-5 NIV

Yet you have a few people in Sardis who have not soiled their clothes. They will walk with me, dressed in white, for they are worthy. [5] The one who is victorious will, like them, be dressed in white. I will never blot out the name of that person from the book of life, but will acknowledge that name before my Father and his angels.

** We shall be forever with Christ! Now, we have to mourn His absence. Now we exclaim, "O that I knew where I could find Him!" But He has provided something better for us — even to dwell forever in His presence, which will constitute our Heaven, our glory, and our portion!

O with what rapture shall we fix and feast our eyes upon Him, and how will the thought that we are to be forever with Him, thrill through our souls, and open ten thousand gushing streams of unutterable delight and joy! O with what joy shall we hear Him say, "Come, you who are blessed of my Father!"

Here on earth, we may be cast down, for the way is rough and our trials are many. Here we may mourn the absence of our God, but the love of Jesus will soon rescue us, and we shall be received into His presence to abide forever! <S183>

John 14:3 NIV

[3] And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am.

1 Thessalonians 4:17 NIV

[17] After that, we who are still alive and are left will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And so we will be with the Lord forever.

Philippians 1:23 NIV

[23] I am torn between the two: I desire to depart and be with Christ, which is better by far;

** Followers of Christ can look forward to the upcoming wedding supper when Christ finally unites Himself with His bride <S190>

• Christ purchased the bride (the Church) by laying down His life for her

• Believers are Christ’s bride and He provides her with clothing of righteousness to be holy and acceptable

• Do our lives reflect this gift?

• Those who accept Christ’s offer of salvation know they are invited to His wedding supper; this relates with Matthew’s account of people rejecting the invitation of the salvation message

• We are to worship Jesus Christ the bridegroom, not the angel messenger

• History finishes with a great Hallelujah!

Revelation 19:9-10 NIV

[9] Then the angel said to me, “Write this: Blessed are those who are invited to the wedding supper of the Lamb!” And he added, “These are the true words of God.” [10] At this I fell at his feet to worship him. But he said to me, “Don't do that! I am a fellow servant with you and with your brothers and sisters who hold to the testimony of Jesus. Worship God! For it is the Spirit of prophecy who bears testimony to Jesus.”

** We should aim to understand the big picture, asking why God created the heaven and earth: He desires an ever-increasingly deep relationship with His creation

• Humans were the only creation with a soul — with the ability to think and reason — and were set above everything else

• God created humans in His image and continues to desire relationship with us

Genesis 1:26 NIV

** In our Christian pilgrimage it is well for the most part to be looking forward. Forward lies the crown, and onward is the goal. Whether it is for hope, for joy, for consolation, or for the inspiring of our love--the future must, after all, be the grand object of the eye of faith!

Looking into the future, the Christian sees:

• Sin cast out

• The body of sin and death destroyed,

• The soul made perfect, and fit to be a partaker of eternal glory

Contemplation of my glorious future may well relieve, the darkness of the past, and the gloom of the present. The joys of Heaven will surely compensate for the sorrows of earth! <S183>

2 Corinthians 4:18 NIV

[18] So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.

2 Timothy 4:8 NIV

[8] Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day---and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing.

** As Daniel prophesied, Christ will visibly appear and come in majesty with every eye being able to witness; God can show Himself at the same time to all on earth

• Part of Daniel’s vision includes someone like a son of man, coming with the clouds of heaven: “I was watching in the night visions, and behold, one like the Son of Man (Jesus), coming with the clouds of heaven! He came to the Ancient of Days (the Father), and they brought him near before Him”

• This Son of Man is led into God’s presence, where He is given authority over all the nations of the world

• People of every nation obey him and His kingdom will never be destroyed

• The Son of Man is Christ, who will return in glory to pronounce judgment on the world and usher in His eternal kingdom

• Jesus confirmed His role in Daniel’s prophecy during His trial, just before His crucifixion (Mark 14:61–62) <L120>

Revelation 1:7 NIV

[7] “Look, he is coming with the clouds,” and “every eye will see him, even those who pierced him”; and all peoples on earth “will mourn because of him.” So shall it be! Amen.

Daniel 7:13 NIV

[13] “In my vision at night I looked, and there before me was one like a son of man, coming with the clouds of heaven. He approached the Ancient of Days and was led into his presence.

Mark 14:61-62 NIV

[61] But Jesus remained silent and gave no answer. Again the high priest asked him, “Are you the Messiah, the Son of the Blessed One?” [62] “I am,” said Jesus. “And you will see the Son of Man sitting at the right hand of the Mighty One and coming on the clouds of heaven.”

** The trials of a believer are often severe. Many a storm has he to endure, many a river to ford, and many a fire to pass through--in his way home to the promised land. Little did the Christian think, when he first stepped into the liberty of the gospel, that there were such rough roads, dark nights, and terrible storms before him; but, more or less, every traveler to Mount Zion must experience them. It is generally found to be a rough road, which leads to the Celestial City. Many a Christian has found his courage fail him, and his heart misgive him, on his way home.

The darkness is sometimes so dense, the cross is at times so heavy, the disappointment is at some seasons so great --that the stoutest heart quails, and unites with the timid spirit, in exclaiming, "Oh, that I had the wings of a dove! I would fly away and be at rest!"

These trials are necessary to…

• Try our sincerity

• Exercise our graces, and

• Render the promises sweet and precious

When all goes smooth, and everything is pleasant…

• We attach but little importance to the promises

• Have little power in prayer, and

• Are too apt to over-value ourselves

But trying times…

• Endear the throne of grace

• Strip us of pride and self-importance, and

• Strengthen our trust in Jesus

Never is Christ so precious, as in times of peculiar trial. Never is the Bible so valued, as in the day of trouble and distress.

Rest! O how sweet is the thought of rest to the weary, way-worn, exhausted traveler! Rest! O how sweet is the thought of rest to the afflicted, tried, and tempted Christian! He most generally thinks of Heaven as a place of rest from suffering, sorrow, toil, and conflict.

Rest with Jesus. Rest in the home of God. We have the foretastes of it occasionally now, which makes us at times long for its fullness and perfection. Like the grapes of Eshcol, which when tasted, stimulates us to hasten across the wilderness that we may take possession of the promised land; so the inward calm, the secret repose, the rest at times enjoyed in the soul, urges us on, and makes us cry out: “Oh, that I had the wings of a dove! I would fly away and be at rest.” <S183>

Psalm 55:6-8 NIV

[6] I said, “Oh, that I had the wings of a dove! I would fly away and be at rest. [7] I would flee far away and stay in the desert; [8] I would hurry to my place of shelter, far from the tempest and storm. ”

** Enemies of Christ may kill the body but they cannot kill the soul; John the Baptist is one example who had his body mutilated yet he lives on in eternity!

Matthew 14:6-11 NIV

On Herod’s birthday the daughter of Herodias danced for the guests and pleased Herod so much [7] that he promised with an oath to give her whatever she asked. [8] Prompted by her mother, she said, “Give me here on a platter the head of John the Baptist.” [9] The king was distressed, but because of his oaths and his dinner guests, he ordered that her request be granted [10] and had John beheaded in the prison. [11] His head was brought in on a platter and given to the girl, who carried it to her mother.

** God will reward those who do not follow false teaching yet follow the morning star, or Jesus Christ

Revelation 2:24-25 NIV

Now I say to the rest of you in Thyatira, to you who do not hold to her teaching and have not learned Satan’s so-called deep secrets, ‘I will not impose any other burden on you, [25] except to hold on to what you have until I come.’

Revelation 2:26-28 NIV

To the one who is victorious and does my will to the end, I will give authority over the nations--- [27] that one ‘will rule them with an iron scepter and will dash them to pieces like pottery’ ---just as I have received authority from my Father. [28] I will also give that one the morning star.

** God had unlimited power in creation. Now, if He willed to make a people who would be His favorites, who would be united to the person of His Son, and who would reign with Him--why did He not make a new race?

When Adam sinned, it would have been easy enough to strike the earth out of existence. He had but to speak and this round earth would have been dissolved, as the bubble dies into the wave that bears it.

There would have been no trace of Adam's sin left; the whole might have died away and have been forgotten forever!

But no! Instead of making a new people--a pure people who could not sin; instead of taking to Himself creatures that were pure, unsullied, without spot--He takes a depraved and fallen people and lifts these up, and that, too, by costly means--by the death of His own Son, and by the work of His own Spirit; that these must be the jewels in His crown to reflect His glory for ever!

...God's choice will ever seem in the eyes of unrenewed men, to be a very strange one. He has passed over those whom we would have selected; and He has chosen those who thought themselves the least likely ever to taste of His grace!

Before your sovereignty I bow, great God, and acknowledge that You do as you wish, and that You give no account of Your matters. <S185>

Psalm 115:3 NIV

[3] Our God is in heaven; he does whatever pleases him.

** When it boils down to the ultimate question: we either believe there is ONE God that we worship or we believe WE can become gods to do whatever we desire

• The second option is obviously the more popular idea in our fallen world

• Believers in Christ need to stand against the enemy who is deceiving multitudes into believing their own godhood

• Christians understand we become children of God, not God

Ephesians 6:10-13 NIV

[10] Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. [11] Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes. [12] For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. [13] Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand.

Romans 6:22 NIV

[22] But now that you have been set free from sin and have become slaves of God, the benefit you reap leads to holiness, and the result is eternal life.

Ephesians 2:19-22 NIV

[19] Consequently, you are no longer foreigners and strangers, but fellow citizens with God's people and also members of his household, [20] built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus himself as the chief cornerstone. [21] In him the whole building is joined together and rises to become a holy temple in the Lord. [22] And in him you too are being built together to become a dwelling in which God lives by his Spirit.

• God will have the final say and will destroy man’s attempts at godhood

• God will not be mocked

Psalm 2:1-7 NIV

[1] Why do the nations conspire and the peoples plot in vain? [2] The kings of the earth rise up and the rulers band together against the Lord and against his anointed, saying, [3] “Let us break their chains and throw off their shackles.” [4] The One enthroned in heaven laughs; the Lord scoffs at them. [5] He rebukes them in his anger and terrifies them in his wrath, saying, [6] “I have installed my king on Zion, my holy mountain. ” [7] I will proclaim the Lord's decree: He said to me, “You are my son; today I have become your father.

Galatians 6:7 NIV

[7] Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows.

** We can experience a new life by being baptized into Jesus' death; connect to Jesus who conquered death and make Him a vital part of your new life!

Some theory suggests that Jesus played dead, like a possum

• If this were true then Christianity would be worthless

• Fortunately Jesus experienced literal death and a literal resurrection after

• This was part of His plan: creating humans, giving His law, providing sacrifice in animals because people couldn't keep His commands

• Animal sacrifice was never enough so He sent His Son to be the eternal all-sufficient sacrifice

• God has absolute power over all, including the spirit world

• Since He has ultimate power, He was able to rise from the dead and prove power over death

• The tomb is empty and Jesus is the only way to have a new life!

• Every day can be a new day with peace, meaning, love, forgiveness, etc in our inner selves <C31>

Romans 6:3-4 NIV

Or don’t you know that all of us who were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death? [4] We were therefore buried with him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life.

Romans 6:6-7 NIV

For we know that our old self was crucified with him so that the body ruled by sin might be done away with, that we should no longer be slaves to sin--- [7] because anyone who has died has been set free from sin.

** Believers in Christ can experience power over death because Jesus already died and conquered death; as a result, we are guaranteed eternity with Him in heaven

• We die to ourselves and live with Jesus = relationship

• We will never have to worry about death again

• We will not only have victory over death but all tears, sickness, and anything that is a consequence of sin <C31>

Romans 6:8-9 NIV

Now if we died with Christ, we believe that we will also live with him. [9] For we know that since Christ was raised from the dead, he cannot die again; death no longer has mastery over him.

Revelation 21:3-5 NIV

And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, “Look! God’s dwelling place is now among the people, and he will dwell with them. They will be his people, and God himself will be with them and be their God. [4] ‘He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death’ or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.” [5] He who was seated on the throne said, “I am making everything new!” Then he said, “Write this down, for these words are trustworthy and true.”

** The benefits of the cross are multiple: atonement for sin, presence of the Holy Spirit within us, conquering death, eternity, etc <C31>

FIRST SIN AND FIRST SIGN OF HOPE

• Adam & Eve were in a perfect relationship with God in a perfect environment

• They brought sin and death into the world when disobeying God's command

• Likewise, we like sheep have gone astray in sin and are responsible for our actions

• In the middle of curses, God gave hope!

• God promised to destroy Satan's power, for Jesus (seed of Adam) will strike his heel meaning that Satan's plan to reign could not be fulfilled

Genesis 3:15 NIV

[15] And I will put enmity between you and the woman, and between your offspring and hers; he will crush your head, and you will strike his heel.”

RESURRECTION PROMISED LONG AGO

• God always had a plan to deal with this sin and give us life

• Mary gave birth to Jesus who would solve this problem through mankind

• Daniel refers to God protecting those who belong to Him in times of trouble, and Job also knew of this hope

Daniel 12:1-2 NIV

[1] “At that time Michael, the great prince who protects your people, will arise. There will be a time of distress such as has not happened from the beginning of nations until then. But at that time your people---everyone whose name is found written in the book---will be delivered. [2] Multitudes who sleep in the dust of the earth will awake: some to everlasting life, others to shame and everlasting contempt.

Job 19:25-27 NIV

[25] I know that my redeemer lives, and that in the end he will stand on the earth. [26] And after my skin has been destroyed, yet in my flesh I will see God; [27] I myself will see him with my own eyes---I, and not another. How my heart yearns within me!

HOPE IS REALITY AT EMPTY TOMB

• Until Jesus walked out of the tomb, He was still just another guy

• The resurrection miracle proved He is God and guarantees OUR resurrection when we follow and trust Him

• The rainbow and empty tomb are reminder that God is in control and Jesus promises to intercede for us!

• Given these realities, WE HAVE HOPE

1 Corinthians 15:20-22 NIV

[20] But Christ has indeed been raised from the dead, the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep. [21] For since death came through a man, the resurrection of the dead comes also through a man. [22] For as in Adam all die, so in Christ all will be made alive.

** Going back to the Torah and to the prophets, Jesus opened [the eyes of those who were dejected that Christ died] to what was really going on

• They were bogged down in the circumstances and Jesus showed them the big picture

• The Lord suffered, but it was all part of a glorious plan that the Father had laid out before the beginning of time

• Likewise, we may suffer blows on this earth, but Jesus is alive and is coming soon – this is our awaited hope and source of joy amid a world that continues to grow darker <T203>

Luke 24:25-31 NIV

[25] He said to them, “How foolish you are, and how slow to believe all that the prophets have spoken! [26] Did not the Messiah have to suffer these things and then enter his glory?” [27] And beginning with Moses and all the Prophets, he explained to them what was said in all the Scriptures concerning himself. [28] As they approached the village to which they were going, Jesus continued on as if he were going farther. [29] But they urged him strongly, “Stay with us, for it is nearly evening; the day is almost over.” So he went in to stay with them. [30] When he was at the table with them, he took bread, gave thanks, broke it and began to give it to them. [31] Then their eyes were opened and they recognized him, and he disappeared from their sight.

** The rapture provides hope, assurance and encouragement <C31>

HOPE

• It is not God's plan that we walk around with blind faith but are somewhat informed of His plan

• We do not have to fear death, for death is being asleep at the spiritual level

• We do not have any control over our lives but we have a hope in Christ and His resurrection

• Without God there is no hope beyond death

• Those who believe in reincarnation never know whether they have done enough

• Basic world religions do not offer assurance we can do enough by the time we die

1 Thessalonians 4:13 NIV

[13] Brothers and sisters, we do not want you to be uninformed about those who sleep in death, so that you do not grieve like the rest of mankind, who have no hope.

ASSURANCE

• Christ’s coming will be announced: Jesus, archangel and trumpet

• The Lord will descend, the dead in Christ will rise first and living believers will rise after

• This will happen quickly and we will be given resurrection bodies. recreated to last forever

1 Corinthians 15:51-57 NIV

[51] Listen, I tell you a mystery: We will not all sleep, but we will all be changed--- [52] in a flash, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet. For the trumpet will sound, the dead will be raised imperishable, and we will be changed. [53] For the perishable must clothe itself with the imperishable, and the mortal with immortality. [54] When the perishable has been clothed with the imperishable, and the mortal with immortality, then the saying that is written will come true: “Death has been swallowed up in victory.” [55] “Where, O death, is your victory? Where, O death, is your sting?” [56] The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law. [57] But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.

• We can look at death and not be afraid because of God's word

• Contrast Christ’s second coming to His first when He came as an infant to a poor family, relatively unknown to the masses

1 Thessalonians 4:15-16 NIV

ENCOURAGEMENT

• Don't grieve like those who don't have any hope

• Trust God's promise that this present suffering will come to an end and this life is not the end

• These words of encouragement can keep us going, for we will never again be separated from God!

1 Thessalonians 4:17-18 NIV

** Jesus ascended into heaven; two men of God informed those watching that Jesus would return in a similar fashion one day -- by descending from heaven to restore His kingdom as prophesied

• We don’t need to know when Jesus will return, but we do need to live with the conviction that He will return!

• The fact that Jesus will come back gives us the courage to fight on against present evils

• Despite setbacks and defeats, Jesus is our victory and the battle is already won! <R1795>

Luke 1:31-33 NIV

[31] You will conceive and give birth to a son, and you are to call him Jesus. [32] He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. The Lord God will give him the throne of his father David, [33] and he will reign over Jacob’s descendants forever; his kingdom will never end.”

Acts 1:9-11 NIV

[9] After he said this, he was taken up before their very eyes, and a cloud hid him from their sight. [10] They were looking intently up into the sky as he was going, when suddenly two men dressed in white stood beside them. [11] “Men of Galilee,” they said, “why do you stand here looking into the sky? This same Jesus, who has been taken from you into heaven, will come back in the same way you have seen him go into heaven.”

Revelation 1:7 NIV

“Look, he is coming with the clouds,” and “every eye will see him, even those who pierced him”; and all peoples on earth “will mourn because of him.” So shall it be! Amen.

** Those who do not consider a Pre-Trib rapture reasoning that the Church needs to purify itself via the Tribulation are, in essence, ‘spitting on the cross’ saying Christ’s death was not enough; don’t believe this lie because Christ’s death on the cross was ‘payment in full’ for our iniquities and we do not need to further purify ourselves! <G71>

Romans 6:10-11 NIV

[10] The death he died, he died to sin once for all; but the life he lives, he lives to God. [11] In the same way, count yourselves dead to sin but alive to God in Christ Jesus.

Ephesians 2:12-13 NIV

[12] remember that at that time you were separate from Christ, excluded from citizenship in Israel and foreigners to the covenants of the promise, without hope and without God in the world. [13] But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far away have been brought near by the blood of Christ.

Hebrews 5:9 NIV

[9] and, once made perfect, [Christ] became the source of eternal salvation for all who obey him

** Those who place their faith in Christ will experience tribulations in this life, but we will not have to endure THE Tribulation at His second coming <G71>

John 15:18-21 NIV

[18] “If the world hates you, keep in mind that it hated me first. [19] If you belonged to the world, it would love you as its own. As it is, you do not belong to the world, but I have chosen you out of the world. That is why the world hates you. [20] Remember what I told you: 'A servant is not greater than his master.' If they persecuted me, they will persecute you also. If they obeyed my teaching, they will obey yours also. [21] They will treat you this way because of my name, for they do not know the one who sent me.

** God does not revel in judgment but is in the business of ‘rescue’; God not only sent His Son as the ultimate rescue from our sin but sent the Holy Spirit to help us in trouble and convict us when we go astray <B17>

Galatians 1:4 NIV

[4] who gave himself for our sins to rescue us from the present evil age, according to the will of our God and Father,

Colossians 1:13 NIV

[13] For he has rescued us from the dominion of darkness and brought us into the kingdom of the Son he loves,

Romans 7:24 NIV

[24] What a wretched man I am! Who will rescue me from this body that is subject to death?

2 Timothy 4:18 NIV

[18] The Lord will rescue me from every evil attack and will bring me safely to his heavenly kingdom. To him be glory for ever and ever. Amen.

** All believers in Christ will receive glorified bodies at Jesus’ second coming, whether the dead in Christ rise first or those who are still alive in Christ rise after

• Dead in Christ — uniting their previous body with heavenly spirit

• Alive in Christ — having their soul already encased in body

1 Thessalonians 4:16-17 NIV

** The Lord WANTS us to be encouraged and excited about His return! Why would he be disappointed when His children are excited about His coming to get us? Wouldn’t He be disappointed if we didn’t care?

Don’t listen to the nay-sayers who want to paint those who are excited about the rapture and Christ’s return as those in a cult or not living in reality

1 Thessalonians 4:16-18 NIV

** God chose Israel for a special reason and Peter connects this heritage to God also choosing the Gentiles

Exodus 19:5-6 NIV

Now if you obey me fully and keep my covenant, then out of all nations you will be my treasured possession. Although the whole earth is mine, [6] you will be for me a kingdom of priests and a holy nation.’ These are the words you are to speak to the Israelites.”

Deuteronomy 7:6-8 NIV

For you are a people holy to the Lord your God. The Lord your God has chosen you out of all the peoples on the face of the earth to be his people, his treasured possession. [7] The Lord did not set his affection on you and choose you because you were more numerous than other peoples, for you were the fewest of all peoples. [8] But it was because the Lord loved you and kept the oath he swore to your ancestors that he brought you out with a mighty hand and redeemed you from the land of slavery, from the power of Pharaoh king of Egypt.

• God didn't choose anyone for their stature; but through those He can follow through with His plan to His honor and glory

• A relationship is available to all who come by faith

• God will fulfill His promises to Israel; we have similar promises as His step-children

OUR STANDING

• God wants us despite what we've done; He wants and draws us to a relationship

• God puts the desire in us to seek Him; if we listen then we can find Him and find restoration

• He gives us the choice even though He draws us to Him

• The Priest is the middleman who speaks for God

• Israel didn't fulfill their mission to be the royal priesthood so we don't need the priest to come to God; Jesus is our only mediator

1 Peter 2:9-10 NIV

[9] But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God's special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light. [10] Once you were not a people, but now you are the people of God; once you had not received mercy, but now you have received mercy.

OUR PRIVILEGE

• We are a holy nation, set apart to point the way to God thru our words, life, actions, etc

• We can tell the world who our God is: all powerful, present, just, pure, faithful, etc

• God pulls us out of the darkness into the light which brings life (death to life)

• He offers riches of eternal life

• Anyone can experience His grace and mercy

• We have the power behind the message <C31>

John 15:16 NIV

You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you so that you might go and bear fruit---fruit that will last---and so that whatever you ask in my name the Father will give you.

** God arranged our DNA for a meaningful and godly life, and provides all the promises to help make that happen

• God pours strength and guidance into us through our relationship with Him

• God gives us amazing promises, like never leaving us, loving us, providing for us... over 300 promises that cover salvation, freedom, wisdom, heaven, etc

• God provides what we need but He never forces us to participate

We have to choose to live in His provision

• He wants to develop His nature in us and escape the corruption of this world

• We will never become a god but can reflect His image

• Sin does not have to dominate our life; we can live free from sin's corruption, living life to its full maximum potential

• We take the step of faith and God empowers us on our journey <C31>

2 Peter 1:3-4 NIV

[3] His divine power has given us everything we need for a godly life through our knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and goodness. [4] Through these he has given us his very great and precious promises, so that through them you may participate in the divine nature, having escaped the corruption in the world caused by evil desires.

** In Christ, we are given a new birth, promise and hope

New Birth (vs 3)

• God promises us that we will be born again into a completely new life; the effects are seen on a consistent basis through all moments of our life in all circumstances

• Being born again means Christ lives within us to work with us against sin; this changes our perspective on life and, hence, our actions

• Remember the story of Nicodemus (John 3) where Jesus told Him about a spiritual change

New Promise (vs 4)

• A gift of eternal life and all its benefits

• Imperishable (cannot be destroyed or damaged, like fruit that goes bad), undefined (cannot be stained with evil, like polluting our environment), unfading (never losing value, like flowers that fade)

New Hope (vs 5)

• New birth brings with it a new hope everyday of our life; we have a freedom from our past sin and failures

• New hope gives us strength to live God's way

• Our relationship with Christ is eternally guaranteed; it is accomplished by God's grace and protected by His all-consuming power

• We are not talking about those who don't live out according to God's ways; these people were not saved in the first place

• Believers in Christ have a hope that we will never be separated from God! <C31>

1 Peter 1:3-5 NIV

[3] Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, [4] and into an inheritance that can never perish, spoil or fade. This inheritance is kept in heaven for you, [5] who through faith are shielded by God's power until the coming of the salvation that is ready to be revealed in the last time.

** When we become born again, we are not just changed from bad to good, we are changed from spiritually dead, to spiritually alive.

John 3:3-6 NIV

[3] Jesus replied, “Very truly I tell you, no one can see the kingdom of God unless they are born again. ” [4] “How can someone be born when they are old?” Nicodemus asked. “Surely they cannot enter a second time into their mother's womb to be born!” [5] Jesus answered, “Very truly I tell you, no one can enter the kingdom of God unless they are born of water and the Spirit. [6] Flesh gives birth to flesh, but the Spirit gives birth to spirit.

• Our new spiritual life comes about by our being justified before God the Father as Holy, not because of any of our own works (as if God needed our works), but through the shed blood of His Son.

Ephesians 2:8-9 NIV

[8] For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith---and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God--- [9] not by works, so that no one can boast.

Colossians 1:13-14 NIV

[13] For he has rescued us from the dominion of darkness and brought us into the kingdom of the Son he loves, [14] in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins.

• At the moment of belief, we are indwelt and sealed by God the Holy Spirit, who not only transformatively gives us a new nature, but we become a new creation altogether.

Ephesians 1:11-14 NIV

[11] In him we were also chosen, having been predestined according to the plan of him who works out everything in conformity with the purpose of his will, [12] in order that we, who were the first to put our hope in Christ, might be for the praise of his glory. [13] And you also were included in Christ when you heard the message of truth, the gospel of your salvation. When you believed, you were marked in him with a seal, the promised Holy Spirit, [14] who is a deposit guaranteeing our inheritance until the redemption of those who are God's possession---to the praise of his glory.

2 Corinthians 5:17-21 NIV

[17] Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here! [18] All this is from God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation: [19] that God was reconciling the world to himself in Christ, not counting people's sins against them. And he has committed to us the message of reconciliation. [20] We are therefore Christ's ambassadors, as though God were making his appeal through us. We implore you on Christ's behalf: Be reconciled to God. [21] God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.

• This is why in the Old Testament, only Adam and the angels could be called "sons of God," (as they were direct creations of God), but in the New Testament, all born-again believers can also claim this title. True born-again believers are direct creations of God. <G70>

Romans 8:14 NIV

[14] For those who are led by the Spirit of God are the children of God.

** If we look around we will be depressed; if we look up we will have hope, and be able to cope, and have joy in the midst of earth’s sorrow <M131>

1 Thessalonians 4:16-17 NIV

** We can always look to God when we follow His will and find joy and peace despite any adversity

Live with expectation

• Expect suffering to come our way; be prepared for when it comes

• Peter was writing around the time of Nero's persecution of Jews; horrendous persecution such as lighting Jews during parties, etc

• He knew trials were coming because we follow Christ; these trials are not just ‘daily happenings’

• We can find joy because God sees us as worthy to be tested

• Let suffering reflect gratitude for the fact that Jesus died and sacrificed for us

1 Peter 4:12-14 NIV

[12] Dear friends, do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal that has come on you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you. [13] But rejoice inasmuch as you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when his glory is revealed. [14] If you are insulted because of the name of Christ, you are blessed, for the Spirit of glory and of God rests on you.

Live with Integrity

• When Jesus returns we can expect to be rewarded for standing with Him

• We can be empowered by the Holy Spirit in the meantime if we live a life of integrity

• As we prepare for white water rafting, be prepared for Christ's return

• Make sure we don't fall by not following Christ's commands; an ungodly life invites suffering

• If we are a person of integrity then we don't need to live a life of shame and guilt

• We can live our life with honor as we represent his name

• Small dents/cuts ended up sinking the Titanic and similar seemingly small sin can end up destroying us

1 Peter 4:15-16 NIV

[15] If you suffer, it should not be as a murderer or thief or any other kind of criminal, or even as a meddler. [16] However, if you suffer as a Christian, do not be ashamed, but praise God that you bear that name.

Live with Gratitude

• God's discipline on Christians can be tough, so that we mature/grow

• Christians we receive God's love and grace in the process; imagine those who don't know Christ

• God wants us to have abundant life, even during times of suffering

1 Peter 4:17-18 NIV

[17] For it is time for judgment to begin with God's household; and if it begins with us, what will the outcome be for those who do not obey the gospel of God? [18] And, “If it is hard for the righteous to be saved, what will become of the ungodly and the sinner?”

Live an Attitude of Thankfulness

• As Creator, God knows what is best for our life

• Remember where we come from, the sinful life, and His grace that has brought us to a better place

• We will not face God's final judgment when he comes back to deal with sin

• Don't take life for granted; take note of all the blessings He provides

• Ask what God wants us to learn through difficult times and encourage others to do the same <C31>

1 Peter 4:16 NIV

[16] However, if you suffer as a Christian, do not be ashamed, but praise God that you bear that name.

** I don't know about you, but every time I read this passage in Revelation (Rev 1:12-18), I get chills. In fact, whenever I read this passage aloud, I get choked up because of how powerfully descriptive it is of our Lord's true nature. When God became the man Christ Jesus in the incarnation, He had to dim (or tone down) His true nature so that He could even walk among us without causing everyone He met to fall over as dead.

We think about the Apostle John, who physically knew Jesus as a man. He was there at the Mt. of Transfiguration. He was there at the cross. He was there after His resurrection. And John still couldn't physically take it when he saw Jesus' true unfiltered nature...it was too much. God told Moses that no man could see Him and live (Exod 33:20, Deut 4:12), to which John the Baptist would later reiterate (John 1:18). Although Daniel only saw some kind of unnamed, yet high-ranking angel, he became physically weakened and had to be restored (Dan 10:8-11). The same thing happened to Isaiah, who saw the throne room and God in a vision. Even then, he was immediately overcome by his own sinfulness and inadequacies and had to be physically restored (Isa 6).

When we become born again (John 3:3-6), we are not just changed from bad to good, we are changed from spiritually dead, to spiritually alive. Our new spiritual life comes about by our being justified before God the Father as Holy, not because of any of our own works (as if God needed our works), but through the shed blood of His Son (Eph 2:8-9, Col 1:13-14). At the moment of belief, we are indwelt and sealed by God the Holy Spirit, who not only transformatively gives us a new nature, but we become a new creation altogether (Eph. 1:11-14, 2 Cor 5:17-21). This is why in the Old Testament, only Adam and the angels could be called "sons of God," (as they were direct creations of God), but in the New Testament, all born-again believers can also claim this title. True born-again believers are direct creations of God (Rom 8:14).

As such, when the Rapture happens, we will be changed from new spiritual creations dwelling in our yet mortal and temporary bodies to new spiritual creations indwelling in our new glorified and eternal bodies. This is why the Rapture is an absolute necessity for the Church. We must shed these mortal frames, in order to exist where God dwells. Furthermore, this necessary transition from mortal to immortal must happen prior to the Tribulation (70th Week of Daniel), because we must be judged first (1 Cor 3:9-17, 2 Cor 5:1-11, 1 Peter 4:17) before God judges the world who rejected His Son (Jer 30:7-11).

1 John 3:2-3 NIV

Nevertheless, when Christ appears (at the Rapture), we will see Him as He is, for we will be like Him. We know that after His resurrection, Christ could change His appearance at will (John 20:14-17), He could appear and disappear at will (Luke 24:31), could walk through walls (Luke 24:36-37), but could also be felt (John 20:27) and eat (Acts 10:40-41). Somehow and someway, we will be like this. To paraphrase my good friend Lee Brainard with regards to our glorified bodies, we will still be able to manipulate the physical domain, but will no longer be constrained by it.

One final thing I will say is that if my faith and hope were only in humanity and our ability to save ourselves through technological evolution, I would be terribly depressed. What good would it be if I were as capable as Captain America, but faded into nothingness when my enhanced body finally died? What good would it be if I had all the technological advances of an Iron Man suit, but couldn't save my own soul? What a bleak and absolutely hopeless future it is for those who think cybernetically modifying our bodies is somehow redemptive. How utterly short-sighted and boring this view is when compared to eternity and the wonders God has in store for those who are His (Eph 2:4-7). One day very soon, you and I, and all those (alive and dead) who are in Christ, will move beyond human. We will become, the fully manifested sons and daughters of God, co-heirs reigning with our Creator for all of eternity (Rom 8:16-18). <G70>

1 Corinthians 15:51-57 NIV

Revelation 1:12-18 NIV

[12] I turned around to see the voice that was speaking to me. And when I turned I saw seven golden lampstands, [13] and among the lampstands was someone like a son of man, dressed in a robe reaching down to his feet and with a golden sash around his chest. [14] The hair on his head was white like wool, as white as snow, and his eyes were like blazing fire. [15] His feet were like bronze glowing in a furnace, and his voice was like the sound of rushing waters. [16] In his right hand he held seven stars, and coming out of his mouth was a sharp, double-edged sword. His face was like the sun shining in all its brilliance. [17] When I saw him, I fell at his feet as though dead. Then he placed his right hand on me and said: “Do not be afraid. I am the First and the Last. [18] I am the Living One; I was dead, and now look, I am alive for ever and ever! And I hold the keys of death and Hades.

** Through Abraham we learn that we must have faith and hope in God because we are not justified through works or adherence to the law

• Paul turned to the towering figure of Abraham, and proposed he set the pattern for his descendants’ relationship with God

• Abraham was an admirable man who risked all in obedience to God

• The Old Testament says God credited his faith to him as righteousness

• Abraham was credited as righteous before he performed his first outward sign of circumcision

• If Abraham had to be given a righteousness he did not possess, and if faith was credited to his account as righteousness, then from the very beginning the key to salvation has been faith – and nothing else <R1795>

• As God progressively laid out His salvation plan for humanity throughout the centuries -- revealing incrementally as generations came about -- Paul confirmed that Old Testament prophecy had been fulfilled

• Now, the early New Testament believers were at the stage that Jeremiah had prophesied

• In others words, recipients of Paul's letter could see that God's Son, the perfect Messiah, arrived on the scene confirming salvation (belief in God, and accepting His forgiveness for sin) as a matter of 'faith and not works' or 'inside-out' <D40>

Romans 4:2-3 NIV

[2] If, in fact, Abraham was justified by works, he had something to boast about---but not before God. [3] What does Scripture say? “Abraham believed God, and it was credited to him as righteousness.”

Romans 4:4-5 NIV

[4] Now to the one who works, wages are not credited as a gift but as an obligation. [5] However, to the one who does not work but trusts God who justifies the ungodly, their faith is credited as righteousness.

Romans 4:10 NIV

[10] Under what circumstances was it credited? Was it after he was circumcised, or before? It was not after, but before!

Romans 4:18 NIV

[18] Against all hope, Abraham in hope believed and so became the father of many nations, just as it had been said to him, “So shall your offspring be.”

** Renewed man will be like Jesus! Man will be with God. Man will shine forth as the sun in the kingdom of his heavenly Father. Man will see and hear and know, and possess, and enjoy — all that he can possibly desire, all that his glorified nature is capable of. He will be more than unfallen Adam was, more than angels are — for he will be as nearly like God as perfected human nature can be made like the Divine! <S183>

1 Corinthians 2:9 NIV

[9] However, as it is written: “What no eye has seen, what no ear has heard, and what no human mind has conceived”---the things God has prepared for those who love him---

** Prayer should become a habit with us, then everything would furnish us with matter for prayer. Prayer should mingle with our pleasures and our pains, with our labor and our rest.

• We should never do, what we cannot pray God to bless

• We should never go, where we cannot ask God to go with us

• Tempted Christian — pray, and you will overcome every temptation

• Troubled Christian — pray, and God will deliver you out of every trouble

• Perplexed Christian — pray, and God will make your way plain before your face

• Doubting Christian — pray, and God will disperse your doubts, and chase your fears away

• Trembling Christian — pray, and God will strengthen you with strength in the soul

• Sick Christian — pray, and God will make all your bed in your affliction

• Dying Christian — pray, and death will lose all its terrors, and you will gently fall asleep in Jesus

• Lost sinner — pray, for God who heard the publican and justified him, will hear you and save you

O for the grace of prayer, that we may in everything, by prayer and petition with thanksgiving, present our requests to God. <S183>

1 Thessalonians 5:17 NIV

[17] pray continually

Colossians 4:2 NIV

[2] Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful.

Philippians 4:6-7 NIV

[6] Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. [7] And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

** The verses in Psalm 16 regarding ‘abandonment to the grave’ are prophetic and refer to Christ's death and resurrection; the believer will not be abandoned to the grave because eternal life will not separate them from God

Psalm 16:8-10 NIV

I keep my eyes always on the Lord. With him at my right hand, I will not be shaken. [9] Therefore my heart is glad and my tongue rejoices; my body also will rest secure, [10] because you will not abandon me to the realm of the dead, nor will you let your faithful one see decay.

** We can easily give up life here on earth when we realize our citizenship is in Heaven; our eyes, focus and heart need to be focused on Jesus’ appearing and our going home!

Philippians 3:20 NIV

[20] But our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ

** The time we spend here on earth:

• For the Christian, it will be the most of Hell experienced

• For the non-Christian, it will be the most of Heaven experienced <F60>

Luke 6:20 NIV

[20] Looking at his disciples, he said: “Blessed are you who are poor, for yours is the kingdom of God.

Habakkuk 2:14 NIV

[14] For the earth will be filled with the knowledge of the glory of the Lord as the waters cover the sea.

** Enjoy the idealism of youth because a sobering ‘realistic future’ comes upon you as you age

Ecclesiastes 12:1-5 NIV

[1] Remember your Creator

in the days of your youth, before the days of trouble come and the years approach when you will say, “I find no pleasure in them”--- [2] before the sun and the light and the moon and the stars grow dark, and the clouds return after the rain; [3] when the keepers of the house tremble, and the strong men stoop, when the grinders cease because they are few, and those looking through the windows grow dim; [4] when the doors to the street are closed and the sound of grinding fades; when people rise up at the sound of birds, but all their songs grow faint; [5] when people are afraid of heights and of dangers in the streets; when the almond tree blossoms and the grasshopper drags itself along and desire no longer is stirred. Then people go to their eternal home and mourners go about the streets.

** We shall soon have glorious liberty! The SOUL will be gloriously free:

• Free from every fetter that binds it

• Free from every conflict that tries it

• Free from every burden that bows it down

The BODY will be gloriously free! It will be a glorious body, like the body of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ:

• No more disease, weakness, or pain

• But health, strength, and ease will characterize it forever!

The whole person, body, soul, and spirit, will be in perfect liberty:

• Free from the curse, and every cross

• Free from every foe, and all our fears

• Free from every fault, and our numerous failings

• Free from frailty, and free from folly

• Free from all internal, external, and eternal evil

It will be freedom crowned with glory, with:

• Glorious beauty,

• Glorious brightness,

• Glorious majesty,

• Glorious honor, and

• Ineffable splendor!

Eye has never seen, ear has never heard, nor has the heart of man ever conceived of anything so grand, so magnificent, so glorious, as what God has provided and has in store for His people! <S183>

Romans 8:21 NIV

[21] that the creation itself will be liberated from its bondage to decay and brought into the freedom and glory of the children of God.

** God created human beings and desires to spend eternity with them!

Revelation 21:3 NIV

** Song chapter 7 is a beautiful intense picture of the love the bridegroom has for his bride, and a beautiful picture of how God sees us — with the love God has for His bride

Isaiah 62:5 NIV

[5] As a young man marries a young woman, so will your Builder marry you; as a bridegroom rejoices over his bride, so will your God rejoice over you.

God does not see our sin but He sees His Son; we become pure and sinless in God’s eyes when we look to Him as our salvation <F60>

Romans 6:6-7 NIV

[6] For we know that our old self was crucified with him so that the body ruled by sin might be done away with, that we should no longer be slaves to sin--- [7] because anyone who has died has been set free from sin.

Colossians 2:10,13 NIV

[10] and in Christ you have been brought to fullness. He is the head over every power and authority. [13] When you were dead in your sins and in the uncircumcision of your flesh, God made you alive with Christ. He forgave us all our sins

1 John 3:5 NIV

[5] But you know that he appeared so that he might take away our sins. And in him is no sin.

Hebrews 10:22 NIV

[22] let us draw near to God with a sincere heart and with the full assurance that faith brings, having our hearts sprinkled to cleanse us from a guilty conscience and having our bodies washed with pure water.

** Not being ‘of the world’ entails:

• That I am not to consider myself to be at home in this world

• That every day I must show myself to be a citizen of Heaven

• That there must be an easily-perceived difference between me and those who do not travel beyond the present realm of things.

• That, however friendly I am with others, I must hold aloof from their sinful habits and recreations <S182>

John 17:16 NIV

[16] They are not of the world, even as I am not of it.

** What a contrast between an unchangeable God, and a sinner withering like a leaf! Yet, this is a true picture of us and of all temporal things.

We began to look green and bright not long ago; and in a little time we shall wither, fade, and die! Shall we soon wither and die? Then let us not be overly concerned by anything that occurs here below.

• Let us set our affections on things above, and lay up for ourselves treasures in Heaven

• Let us live by faith in Jesus, walk with God, and aim principally to please Him in all that we do

• Let us also watch against a worldly spirit and pass the time of our sojourning here on earth in fear

The dying bed, the coffin, and the grave are just before us. Brethren, the time is short! Eternity with all its glories is just before us! <S183>

• Let us therefore make our calling and our election sure

• Let us cultivate close and filial fellowship with God

• Let us dig deep and lay our foundation upon the Rock!

Isaiah 64:6b NIV

[6] …we all shrivel up like a leaf, and like the wind our sins sweep us away.

Job 14:1-2 NIV

[1] “Mortals, born of woman, are of few days and full of trouble. [2] They spring up like flowers and wither away; like fleeting shadows, they do not endure.

** Living the Christian life is not meant to be easy but a daily battle, with a crown of righteousness waiting for those who succeed; as Paul expressed in his last words to Timothy — he did not say he “danced his last dance” but “fought the good fight” <F60>

2 Timothy 4:7-8 NIV

** The bride continued to express a love-sick longing for her groom that affected her emotionally, physically and mentally; she longed for him which led to her seeking after him with all her heart, soul, spirit, strength

As the bride of Christ, likewise, our longing for our groom Christ should prompt us to seek Him every moment of our lives; that which we long for is that which we will seek after <F60>

Song of Songs 3:1-2 NIV

[1] All night long on my bed, I looked for the one my heart loves; I looked for him but did not find him. [2] I will get up now and go about the city, through its streets and squares; I will search for the one my heart loves. So I looked for him but did not find him.

2 Timothy 4:7-8 [Paul’s final words to Timothy]

Hebrews 11:6 NIV

[6] And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him.

** Am I one of His saints? Do I understand that, as a believer in Christ, I am an adopted son and heir of God?

It often seems too high a title to claim, so let me remember that everything depends on what my heart is fixed upon.

• The poet dreams about a masterpiece of music he is yet to write

• The artist dreams about a surpassing picture he will paint one day

• The sculptor dreams about a statue whose grandeur will draw all eyes

What then, are my dreams? Are they about one day being:

• Completely liberated from sin?

• Changed into the image of Christ?

• Perfected in holiness?

If so, then I am among the saints as a child of God and heir apparent! <S182>

Galatians 4:4-7 NIV

[4] But when the set time had fully come, God sent his Son, born of a woman, born under the law, [5] to redeem those under the law, that we might receive adoption to sonship. [6] Because you are his sons, God sent the Spirit of his Son into our hearts, the Spirit who calls out, “Abba , Father.” [7] So you are no longer a slave, but God's child; and since you are his child, God has made you also an heir.

Romans 8:17 NIV

[17] Now if we are children, then we are heirs---heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ, if indeed we share in his sufferings in order that we may also share in his glory.

Titus 3:4-7 NIV

** It is good to know that there is a limit to affliction. It is but for a moment, for it has its appointed end.

• Not always will the war go on.

• Not always will the seas be tempest-driven.

• Not always will the rains descend and the fierce winds blow.

• God weighs and measures, bounds and ordains, my sorrows!

It is good to know that there is a purpose in affliction.

• It works for me, in my service, on my behalf.

• Affliction does not rise out of the ground, nor fall on me by chance, as an unfortunate, aimless, undirected, capricious thing. (Job 5:6, Job 1:21)

Affliction is the instrument and agent of my Father in Heaven! By it He would…

• Teach my mind

• Soften and expand my heart

• Give new robustness to my faith

• Add vigor to my prayers

• Produce all my graces and character

It is good to know that there is a coronation after affliction. It is the prelude to an eternal weight of glory! And the glory will be none the less, but all the more, because it has been heralded by the grief. I am fitted for the purity of the glorious inheritance, by the cleansing and refining discipline to which I am subjected on the way to it. <S182>

2 Corinthians 4:17-18 NIV

[17] For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. [18] So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.

Romans 8:18 NIV

[18] I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us.

** The bride beckons her husband to hurry in his return, just as we await Christ’s return for us!

Song of Songs 8:14 NIV

[14] Come away, my beloved, and be like a gazelle or like a young stag on the spice-laden mountains.

** There are two trumpets to help us make the distinction between Israel and the church:

• the first trumpet is for Israel; Trumpet of Angels

• the last trumpet for the church; Trumpet of God

If Replacement Theologists replace Israel with the Church, then you must place the church in the Tribulation; the purpose of the Tribulation, however, is the salvation of the Jewish nation

Remember that the Tribulation is the 70th week of Daniel and the time of Jacob’s Trouble — not the church’s trouble — therefore we must be raptured before the Tribulation, which marks the last 7 years of human history and ushers in the second coming of Christ when complete

Having the hope of the trumpet sound at any moment and the believers in Christ raptured should be preached from every pulpit and be on the minds of every Christian; instead, as of March 2022, there are only 37% of pastors who have a Biblical worldview — 12% of youth pastors! <F60>

1 Thessalonians 4:13-17 NIV

[13] Brothers and sisters, we do not want you to be uninformed about those who sleep in death, so that you do not grieve like the rest of mankind, who have no hope. [14] For we believe that Jesus died and rose again, and so we believe that God will bring with Jesus those who have fallen asleep in him. [15] According to the Lord's word, we tell you that we who are still alive, who are left until the coming of the Lord, will certainly not precede those who have fallen asleep. [16] For the Lord himself will come down from heaven, with a loud command, with the voice of the archangel and with the trumpet call of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first. [17] After that, we who are still alive and are left will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And so we will be with the Lord forever.

1 Corinthians 15:51-54 NIV

** God delights in His people and His people rejoice in Him in return

Psalm 149:4-5 NIV

[4] For the Lord takes delight in his people; he crowns the humble with victory. [5] Let his faithful people rejoice in this honor and sing for joy on their beds.

** The Savior had been praying, and it is evident now that His prayer was not in vain: "Father, forgive them!" He had entreated God for the very Roman centurion who had nailed Him to His tree of shame, and then had sat down and barbarously gambled for His clothes. <S182>

Jesus’ prayer was answered for the centurion that nailed Him to the cross, recognized Jesus as the Son of God in the end!

Luke 23:34 NIV

[34] Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.” And they divided up his clothes by casting lots.

Mark 15:39 NIV

[39] And when the centurion, who stood there in front of Jesus, saw how he died, he said, “Surely this man was the Son of God!”

** Saint, three questions call for your answer:

1. What were you?

2. What are you?

3. What shall you be?

1. What were you?

• Dead in your transgressions and sins

• A rebel to your God

• A prodigal to your Father

• A slave to your lust

• The devil's captive

• Headed for hell

2. What are you?

• Redeemed by Christ

• A royal child of God

• The spouse of Christ

• The temple of the Holy Spirit

• The heir of a priceless eternal inheritance!

3. What shall you be?

• A glorious saint

• A companion of angels

• A triumphant victor

• A crowned king

• An attendant on the Lamb

• A participant in those soul-ravishing, and

• Ineffable excellencies that are in God!

You shall behold the King of Glory face to face, and enjoy immediate communion with Jesus Christ, and you shall be made one with Him:

• Clothed with His excellencies

• Enthroned with His glories, and

• Crowned with His eternity! <S181>

1 Corinthians 2:9 NIV

[9] However, as it is written: “What no eye has seen, what no ear has heard, and what no human mind has conceived”---the things God has prepared for those who love him

** Who is it that will come one day, and whom every eye shall see? The Lord Jesus, the Savior of sinners; the Judge of all men! Every eye shall see Him. My eye shall see Him too! Will it be with fear and terror that I shall behold the King of kings coming to judgment? Or will my gaze be that of admiration and love for my adorable Redeemer?

All Christians rejoice in the expectation of His second coming, when faith shall be turned to sight. How can we fear the realization of our fondest hopes, the accomplishment of our best desires? The more we look to Jesus now, by faith — the less shall we fear death and judgment. For how, indeed, can we fear to meet our best and dearest Friend?

Paul assures us that there is a crown which the Lord, the righteous Judge, shall give at His coming to all who love His appearing. Let us not shrink, then, from meditation on the glorious coming of Christ, but rather look for and expect it as the end of all our sins, sufferings and trials — and the beginning of perfect and eternal happiness!

Let us ask ourselves, "Are we willing this very night to leave all on earth, and go to Jesus?" If we could really see Jesus standing at the right hand of God, and saying to us this very night, "Come, you who are blessed by my Father; take your inheritance, the Kingdom prepared for you since the creation of the world!" I am quite sure that nothing on earth could detain us! <S191>

Revelation 1:7 NIV

[7] “Look, he is coming with the clouds,” and “every eye will see him, even those who pierced him”; and all peoples on earth “will mourn because of him.” So shall it be! Amen.

Revelation 22:20 NIV

[20] He who testifies to these things says, “Yes, I am coming soon.” Amen. Come, Lord Jesus.

John 17:24a NIV

[24] “Father, I want those you have given me to be with me where I am, and to see my glory…”

** The lame will walk and those who experienced grief in this world will be free of pain in God’s new Kingdom

Micah 4:6-7 NIV

[6] “In that day,” declares the Lord, “I will gather the lame; I will assemble the exiles and those I have brought to grief. [7] I will make the lame my remnant, those driven away a strong nation. The Lord will rule over them in Mount Zion from that day and forever.

** Zion will undergo temporary pain but God will restore Jerusalem

Micah 4:10 NIV

[10] Writhe in agony, Daughter Zion, like a woman in labor, for now you must leave the city to camp in the open field. You will go to Babylon; there you will be rescued. There the Lord will redeem you out of the hand of your enemies.

Micah 4:8,11-13 NIV

[8] As for you, watchtower of the flock, stronghold of Daughter Zion, the former dominion will be restored to you; kingship will come to Daughter Jerusalem. ” [11] But now many nations are gathered against you. They say, “Let her be defiled, let our eyes gloat over Zion!” [12] But they do not know the thoughts of the Lord; they do not understand his plan, that he has gathered them like sheaves to the threshing floor. [13] “Rise and thresh, Daughter Zion, for I will give you horns of iron; I will give you hooves of bronze, and you will break to pieces many nations.” You will devote their ill-gotten gains to the Lord, their wealth to the Lord of all the earth.

** While in this world, our weary bodies require the refreshment of sleep; and our merciful God has graciously given to us this sweet restorer of strength. Often we have retired to rest, overcome with fatigue and anxiety, perhaps distressed with pain — but sleep has taken away these feelings, and we have risen the next day in health and peace, to serve our God with joyfulness.

On a bed of sickness, this text has often been a source of comfort to the believer: "There shall be no night there!" But there will be no night in Heaven, because there will be no need of rest from labor, relief from pain or need of solace and refreshment under fatigue.

The former state of things will have fully passed away, and one eternal unclouded day will have dawned upon us! Our spirits will then be made perfect — and at the resurrection our glorified bodies will rise, no more to be a clog upon our soul's enjoyment.

Revelation 22:5 NIV

[5] There will be no more night. They will not need the light of a lamp or the light of the sun, for the Lord God will give them light. And they will reign for ever and ever.

A night of pain and wakefulness is often a time in which God teaches His people. In the midst of active employment, the soul is not at leisure for reflection. And in the short periods devoted to retirement for prayer and meditation — the thoughts are often strangely distracted by what has gone before, or by the anticipation of coming events.

But in a night of weariness and pain, there seems to be a rest from outward things; the soul is brought to a stand before God — it must think, it must reflect, it must examine itself, and ask if all is safe for eternity — if it is in Christ, if it is prepared to die.

• Blessed result of pain, if led thereby to seek the Lord Jesus, and find rest in Him!

• Blessed result of pain, if led thereby to meditate on Heaven's eternal day of rest!

The retrospect will be clear; we will see that our path has been a safe and right one, and we will glorify our gracious God! <S191>

Psalm 107:7 NIV

[7] He led them by a straight way to a city where they could settle.

** Why do we experience tragedy in this life when there is a loving God who claims to look out for us? Bottom line: we do not live in the perfect world God created, as expressed in the first chapter of Genesis, because sin entered the world; we need to trust that someday God will make things new again!

Genesis 1:21 NIV

[21] So God created the great creatures of the sea and every living thing with which the water teems and that moves about in it, according to their kinds, and every winged bird according to its kind. And God saw that it was good.

Hebrews 8:8,13 NIV

[8] But God found fault with the people and said : “The days are coming, declares the Lord, when I will make a new covenant with the people of Israel and with the people of Judah. [13] By calling this covenant “new,” he has made the first one obsolete; and what is obsolete and outdated will soon disappear.

** Loving God’s gifts more than God is idolatry and brings misery to our lives

• The plant and worm were an object lesson that God will provide and sometimes takes away

• Jonah's great happiness over the plant returned to misery when the plant died

• Does removal of God’s gifts make us angry?

• Do we get upset when life is not comfortable?

• When we compare our lives with Jonah, do we follow the same pattern where we are thankful for God's gifts (more than God Himself) and then are miserable if they are removed? <C31>

Jonah 4:5-9 NIV

[5] Jonah had gone out and sat down at a place east of the city. There he made himself a shelter, sat in its shade and waited to see what would happen to the city. [6] Then the Lord God provided a leafy plant and made it grow up over Jonah to give shade for his head to ease his discomfort, and Jonah was very happy about the plant. [7] But at dawn the next day God provided a worm, which chewed the plant so that it withered. [8] When the sun rose, God provided a scorching east wind, and the sun blazed on Jonah's head so that he grew faint. He wanted to die, and said, “It would be better for me to die than to live.” [9] But God said to Jonah, “Is it right for you to be angry about the plant?” “It is,” he said. “And I'm so angry I wish I were dead.”

** God exalts beggars to the status of "beloved children." He takes them into the place of nearness unto Himself. He brings them into union with His dear Son, making them "heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ!" (Rom 8:17). He takes them out of the miry clay of an unregenerate state, and sets them upon the rock.

Marvelous transition and exaltation is that! Translated from the most abject condition, to the highest possible dignity!

• Shame is replaced by the highest honor;

• filthy rags are replaced by the spotless robe of righteousness,

• poverty is replaced by the unsearchable riches of Christ!

The abasement of the Son of God was necessary, in order for the advancement of vile worms of the earth.

• He who was rich had to seek out the lowest level of poverty, before we could be made rich.

• The Beloved of the Father had to be made an object of shame, before we could be raised.

• The Lord of glory must die, in order for Hell-deserving sinners to be made alive!

1 Samuel 2:8 NIV

[8] He raises the poor from the dust and lifts the needy from the ash heap; he seats them with princes and has them inherit a throne of honor. “For the foundations of the earth are the Lord's; on them he has set the world.

** The future of Jerusalem is secure

Joel 3:17,20 NIV

[17] “Then you will know that I, the Lord your God, dwell in Zion, my holy hill. Jerusalem will be holy; never again will foreigners invade her. [20] Judah will be inhabited forever and Jerusalem through all generations.

** God has to protect the perfection of Heaven and that is why WE need to be absolved from our sin in order to be with Him eternally

• This is why God cast 1/3 of the angels from heaven at creation

• This is also why He chose to send His Son to die on the cross to pave the way for us; as sinners, we would have no hope if we could not accept God’s offer of salvation

• How incredibly loving on His part and humbling on ours for the sinless God to take our punishment

• As if we are in court ready to be sentenced, God comes in to accept the sentence so we can walk free! Unbelievable!

1 Peter 2:24 NIV

[24] “He himself bore our sins” in his body on the cross, so that we might die to sins and live for righteousness; “by his wounds you have been healed.”

2 Corinthians 6:2 NIV

[2] For he says, “In the time of my favor I heard you, and in the day of salvation I helped you.” I tell you, now is the time of God's favor, now is the day of salvation.

Titus 2:11 NIV

[11] For the grace of God has appeared that offers salvation to all people.

1 Thessalonians 5:9 NIV

[9] For God did not appoint us to suffer wrath but to receive salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ.

Revelation 19:1 NIV

[1] After this I heard what sounded like the roar of a great multitude in heaven shouting:

“Hallelujah! Salvation and glory and power belong to our God

** Joel’s prophetic events would come to pass exactly as told, so generations would talk about it in the future; it was also the responsibility of elders to tell the younger generations how God interacted with His creation

Joel 1:3 NIV

[3] Tell it to your children, and let your children tell it to their children, and their children to the next generation.

** The Lord endures forever! Praise the Lord!

Psalm 135:13,19-21 NIV

[13] Your name, Lord, endures forever, your renown, Lord, through all generations. [19] All you Israelites, praise the Lord; house of Aaron, praise the Lord; [20] house of Levi, praise the Lord; you who fear him, praise the Lord. [21] Praise be to the Lord from Zion, to him who dwells in Jerusalem. Praise the Lord.

** Jerusalem is to be our ultimate hope, our highest joy!

Psalm 137:6 NIV

[6] May my tongue cling to the roof of my mouth if I do not remember you, if I do not consider Jerusalem my highest joy.

** Israel was still considered God’s people, despite their sin and punishment God had to serve them; God’s effort was to have her recognize Him once again

Hosea 1:10 NIV

[10] “Yet the Israelites will be like the sand on the seashore, which cannot be measured or counted. In the place where it was said to them, 'You are not my people,' they will be called 'children of the living God.'

Hosea 2:23 NIV

[23] I will plant her for myself in the land; I will show my love to the one I called 'Not my loved one. ' I will say to those called 'Not my people, ' 'You are my people'; and they will say, 'You are my God. ' ”

** We would not have a ‘leg to stand on’ if left to our record of conduct; thank God He forgives our sin and offers us a way to redemption when we ask this if Him

Psalm 130:3 NIV

[3] If you, Lord, kept a record of sins, Lord, who could stand?

Psalm 130:4,7-8 NIV

[4] But with you there is forgiveness, so that we can, with reverence, serve you. [7] Israel, put your hope in the Lord, for with the Lord is unfailing love and with him is full redemption. [8] He himself will redeem Israel from all their sins.

** There is hope — rescue from the troubled — for those who recognize God and admit the error of their ways

Daniel 12:3 NIV

[3] Those who are wise will shine like the brightness of the heavens, and those who lead many to righteousness, like the stars for ever and ever.

Jeremiah 30:10-11 NIV

[10] “ 'So do not be afraid, Jacob my servant; do not be dismayed, Israel,' declares the Lord. 'I will surely save you out of a distant place, your descendants from the land of their exile. Jacob will again have peace and security, and no one will make him afraid. [11] I am with you and will save you,' declares the Lord. 'Though I completely destroy all the nations among which I scatter you, I will not completely destroy you. I will discipline you but only in due measure; I will not let you go entirely unpunished.'

** A song written and sung by Kari Jobe, Amen (Simple Gospel), affirms the later reality. The song contains these lyrics that point to the church as our hope in this current age:

“The church will arise / With power and love / Our cities will know / The glory of God / The future is bright / There's nothing to fear / Revival is now / The Kingdom is here”

The words to Jobe’s song sound wonderful, but does the Bible teach that the church will triumph over the current forces of darkness actively at work everywhere we look? No, it does not. Nor does it tell us that the future will be “bright” for planet earth apart from the return of Jesus.

I believe the world has passed the point of no return; the coming day of the Lord will soon sweep over the earth and forever change life on the planet. Scripture teaches that God’s wrath is on its way to a Christ-rejecting world.

As believers, we have cause for much optimism, but such an expectation lies exclusively in Jesus’ imminent return for His church. Our hope rests in our departure from this world, which may happen very soon.

…Kari Jobe’s song, Amen (Simple Gospel), represents a false optimism that’s not found in Scripture nor does exist anywhere in our current world.

The church will not arise victorious and make the glory of God known in our cities. How can anyone expect such a result with the church in its current divided and apostate condition? Most churches today preach a diluted or false Gospel that renders them powerless to affect lifegiving changes in their cities. Many of them advocate the very sins tearing apart the fabric of our society. How can they be a light in the darkness?

I know of many pastors and teachers that advocate the church as our hope. I have heard this over and over from those with a wide variety of beliefs, even from those who say they believe the Bible.

However, the future only holds joy and wonder because of Christ. He’s coming soon to take us up to heaven. We have a glorious future because of Jesus.

It’s not just a matter of revival versus the Rapture; it’s that of trusting the only One with power to change the world in which we live.

Jesus is the One that will bring about the glorious time we know as the Millennium. Those that believe the church will bring about such a restoration either do not know, believe, or understand Scripture. <B26> (Jan 2022)

** We are held accountable for our own sin, not the sin of our ancestors as social justice woke false leaders (even in the church) want us to believe

Ezekiel 18:18 NIV

[18] But his father will die for his own sin, because he practiced extortion, robbed his brother and did what was wrong among his people.

** Paul wrote to Pastor Titus to encourage and instruct him regarding the blessed hope of the Rapture, knowing others aimed to despise and reject his message

Titus 2:11-15 NIV

[11] For the grace of God has appeared that offers salvation to all people. [12] It teaches us to say “No” to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age, [13] while we wait for the blessed hope---the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ, [14] who gave himself for us to redeem us from all wickedness and to purify for himself a people that are his very own, eager to do what is good. [15] These, then, are the things you should teach. Encourage and rebuke with all authority. Do not let anyone despise you.

1 John 3:2-3 NIV

** God is the author of all life and knows the number of our days before we even take our first breath

Psalm 139:14-16 NIV

[14] I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well. [15] My frame was not hidden from you when I was made in the secret place, when I was woven together in the depths of the earth. [16] Your eyes saw my unformed body; all the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be.

Ezekiel 37:3-7 NIV

[3] He asked me, “Son of man, can these bones live?” I said, “Sovereign Lord, you alone know. ” [4] Then he said to me, “Prophesy to these bones and say to them, ‘Dry bones, hear the word of the Lord! [5] This is what the Sovereign Lord says to these bones: I will make breath enter you, and you will come to life. [6] I will attach tendons to you and make flesh come upon you and cover you with skin; I will put breath in you, and you will come to life. Then you will know that I am the Lord. ’ ” [7] So I prophesied as I was commanded. And as I was prophesying, there was a noise, a rattling sound, and the bones came together, bone to bone.

** The feet are described as beautiful because they bring good news; this notion goes against Asian culture where the feet are the ugliest and dirtiest part of the body <F60>

Bottom line: The good news is that Jesus is coming to take us out of this world just like the Israelites were taken out of captivity!

Isaiah 52:7 NIV

[7] How beautiful on the mountains are the feet of those who bring good news, who proclaim peace, who bring good tidings, who proclaim salvation, who say to Zion, “Your God reigns!”

Ephesians 6:15 NIV

[15] and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace.

** Analogy of redemption: God will bring together the Israelites (who had been scattered across the nations) into their land again and punish the countries that surround Israel so they can live in peace; everyone will then know that God is the Lord their God!

Ezekiel 28:25-26 NIV

[25] “ 'This is what the Sovereign Lord says: When I gather the people of Israel from the nations where they have been scattered, I will be proved holy through them in the sight of the nations. Then they will live in their own land, which I gave to my servant Jacob. [26] They will live there in safety and will build houses and plant vineyards; they will live in safety when I inflict punishment on all their neighbors who maligned them. Then they will know that I am the Lord their God. ' ”

** One of the first references to the power of Christ on the cross was made when Moses offered the bronze snake on a pole to heal those who were dying

Numbers 21:9 NIV

[9] So Moses made a bronze snake and put it up on a pole. Then when anyone was bitten by a snake and looked at the bronze snake, they lived.

John 3:14-16 NIV

[14] Just as Moses lifted up the snake in the wilderness, so the Son of Man must be lifted up, [15] that everyone who believes may have eternal life in him.” [16] For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.

** The kingdom of God belongs to both Jew and Gentile; all who believe in Christ are all united to Him by His sanctifying Spirit and will share the privileges of Israelites <H83>

Ezekiel 47:21-23 NIV

[21] “You are to distribute this land among yourselves according to the tribes of Israel. [22] You are to allot it as an inheritance for yourselves and for the foreigners residing among you and who have children. You are to consider them as native-born Israelites; along with you they are to be allotted an inheritance among the tribes of Israel. [23] In whatever tribe a foreigner resides, there you are to give them their inheritance,” declares the Sovereign Lord.

** Jesus, when questioned by the High Priest Caiaphas, confirmed He is the Messiah and will return to Zion coming with the clouds of Heaven as confirmed by Old Testament prophecy <R173>

Matthew 26:3,57,63-64 NIV

[3] Then the chief priests and the elders of the people assembled in the palace of the high priest, whose name was Caiaphas, [57] Those who had arrested Jesus took him to Caiaphas the high priest, where the teachers of the law and the elders had assembled. [63] But Jesus remained silent. The high priest said to him, “I charge you under oath by the living God: Tell us if you are the Messiah, the Son of God.” [64] “You have said so,” Jesus replied. “But I say to all of you: From now on you will see the Son of Man sitting at the right hand of the Mighty One and coming on the clouds of heaven.”

Isaiah 2:2-3 NIV

[2] In the last days the mountain of the Lord's temple will be established as the highest of the mountains; it will be exalted above the hills, and all nations will stream to it. [3] Many peoples will come and say, “Come, let us go up to the mountain of the Lord, to the temple of the God of Jacob. He will teach us his ways, so that we may walk in his paths.” The law will go out from Zion, the word of the Lord from Jerusalem.

Zechariah 8:3 NIV

[3] This is what the Lord says: “I will return to Zion and dwell in Jerusalem. Then Jerusalem will be called the Faithful City, and the mountain of the Lord Almighty will be called the Holy Mountain. ”

** Man, for six thousand years, has tried to understand his SPIRIT, yet knows as little of it as he did at first. What is the soul of man? Whence did it come? Where does it go? He can't explain how spirit dwells with flesh — what binds the two together for a time, in perfect unity. He has never seen, as little can he feel, the links that knit them to each other. It is all within him — his flesh, his spirit, his life, his being — all the machinery of soul and body, thus closely interlaced. Yet is it as foreign to his grasp, as that which happens in another world!

Thus flesh and spirit dwell together. Who could suppose they ever would part again! Who can explain how soul and body part, or how the links of union are undone; what makes the spirit fly away, or how the flesh gives up its hold! God wills it. God does it. God does not explain why. God does not tell how. He speaks, unheard; and immediately it is done — the spirit returns to Him who made it.

Man may detain the body but he cannot keep the soul, nor say, "You shall not go!" God says, "Return to Me!" The command must be obeyed. Neither youth, nor wit, nor beauty, nor strength, nor money can delay His omnipotent hand. <M138>

Ecclesiastes 8:8 NIV

[8] As no one has power over the wind to contain it, so no one has power over the time of their death. As no one is discharged in time of war, so wickedness will not release those who practice it.

** The disciples asked whether Jesus would restore the kingdom to Israel now that He arose from the grave; Jesus replied that we will not know the hour when God restores His kingdom

• Even now the disciples remained ‘Old Testament believers’ whose promises were made by the prophets

• They knew the promises made by the prophets but were convinced that Jesus, who proved Himself to be the Messiah, would make Israel a nation again and the dominant world power

• Their only question was ‘when’ and Christ’s timing?

• Jesus didn’t rebuke His disciples for believing the promises of the Old Testament would be fulfilled literally

• Jesus didn’t say “Don’t take that stuff literally” but rather “It is not for you to know the times or dates”

• This is a good principle for us to follow in our relationship with the Lord: believe His promises even when asked to wait, but trust His timing <R1795>

Acts 1:6-7 NIV

[6] Then they gathered around him and asked him, “Lord, are you at this time going to restore the kingdom to Israel?” [7] He said to them: “It is not for you to know the times or dates the Father has set by his own authority.

** It was known in the Old Testament that the Gentiles would receive salvation (Isa 49:6); but it was never revealed (until the giving of the Holy spirit to all believers) that all Gentile and Jewish believers would become equal in the body of Christ. This equality was accomplished when Jesus broke down the “wall of partition” and created the “one new man” (Eph 2:14-15), “neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus” (Gal 3:28). <N154>

Isaiah 49:6 NIV

[6] he says: “It is too small a thing for you to be my servant to restore the tribes of Jacob and bring back those of Israel I have kept. I will also make you a light for the Gentiles, that my salvation may reach to the ends of the earth.”

Ephesians 2:14-15 NIV

[14] For he himself is our peace, who has made the two groups one and has destroyed the barrier, the dividing wall of hostility, [15] by setting aside in his flesh the law with its commands and regulations. His purpose was to create in himself one new humanity out of the two, thus making peace,

Galatians 3:28 NIV

[28] There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.

** Out of compassion, God saved Israel who had been neglected; God gave her life when she was on the verge of death

Ezekiel 16:5-6 NIV

[5] No one looked on you with pity or had compassion enough to do any of these things for you. Rather, you were thrown out into the open field, for on the day you were born you were despised. [6] “ 'Then I passed by and saw you kicking about in your blood, and as you lay there in your blood I said to you, “Live!”

Ezekiel 16:9-13 NIV

[9] “ 'I bathed you with water and washed the blood from you and put ointments on you. [10] I clothed you with an embroidered dress and put sandals of fine leather on you. I dressed you in fine linen and covered you with costly garments. [11] I adorned you with jewelry: I put bracelets on your arms and a necklace around your neck, [12] and I put a ring on your nose, earrings on your ears and a beautiful crown on your head. [13] So you were adorned with gold and silver; your clothes were of fine linen and costly fabric and embroidered cloth. Your food was honey, olive oil and the finest flour. You became very beautiful and rose to be a queen.

** At any given time during His stay on this earth, Our Savior could have decided we weren’t worth the effort and could have left us to our own resources. That would have guaranteed that Heaven would be empty of human souls, as no one could ever make an acceptable sin sacrifice to our Heavenly Father.

As it is, even at the creation of this earth, God knew He would have to give us a gift that was far more valuable than all the riches this earth holds. One precious drop of our Savior’s blood sealed our pardon. This is for any and all who will receive and accept His gift, and Jesus shed His perfect blood as a “one-time” sacrifice for all of us.

Hebrews 10:4 NIV

[4] It is impossible for the blood of bulls and goats to take away sins.

Isaiah 53:5 NIV

[5] But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was on him, and by his wounds we are healed.

For those pre-Calvary, His blood reached back to cover all the saints that had been faithful and in the will of God. From Calvary forward, it has covered and will cover all those who are in Christ and have a relationship with Him. <H91>

** There is only one condition when Israel will cease to be a nation — when the ordinances (sun, moon, stars, sea) cease to exist because God has established our new heaven and new earth

We are moving full circle:

• from the beginning in Genesis when we have no need for nations (Jew or Gentile) and all is perfect

• sin entered the scene and God provided a solution through His chosen people Israel to deal with sin and a lineage for the Messiah Jesus

• to eventually the end in Revelation when there is no need for nations (Jew or Gentile) and we are back to perfection; God will rule in a new heaven and new earth <T203>

Jeremiah 31:35-36 NIV

[35] This is what the Lord says, he who appoints the sun to shine by day, who decrees the moon and stars to shine by night, who stirs up the sea so that its waves roar---the Lord Almighty is his name: [36] “Only if these decrees vanish from my sight,” declares the Lord, “will Israel ever cease being a nation before me.”

Revelation 21:22-26 NIV

** This is not the world God created — it has been corrupted by evil and sin — so we are going to be affected by the evil around us before followers of Christ can enjoy His new creation

We don’t have all the answers right now — we don’t know why God does not save us from every evil encounter when we ask Him to, but we know He is good and we will understand one day when living in God’s new kingdom

Revelation 21:5 NIV

[5] He who was seated on the throne said, “I am making everything new!” Then he said, “Write this down, for these words are trustworthy and true.”

God wants us to lean on Him during our existence here; He did not remove Paul’s thorn for He wanted Paul to lean on Him, for His grace is sufficient and His ways/thoughts are well-beyond ours — trust God now for one day we will know fully! <S188>

2 Corinthians 12:8-9 NIV

[8] Three times I pleaded with the Lord to take it away from me. [9] But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness. ” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me.

1 Corinthians 13:12 NIV

[12] For now we see only a reflection as in a mirror; then we shall see face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known.

** God wanted to make sure the Israelite army did not boast of their success so the Lord told Gideon to reduce the number of fighting men and told him how

• In a series of steps, God reduced Gideon’s army from 32,000 to a mere 300 soldiers

• Victory won by 300 over thousands would make God’s role clear <R1795>

• A great reminder to trust God in all situations!

Judges 7:2 NIV

[2] The Lord said to Gideon, “You have too many men. I cannot deliver Midian into their hands, or Israel would boast against me, ‘My own strength has saved me.’

Judges 7:3-7 NIV

[3] Now announce to the army, ‘Anyone who trembles with fear may turn back and leave Mount Gilead. ’ ” So twenty-two thousand men left, while ten thousand remained. [4] But the Lord said to Gideon, “There are still too many men. Take them down to the water, and I will thin them out for you there. If I say, ‘This one shall go with you,’ he shall go; but if I say, ‘This one shall not go with you,’ he shall not go.” [5] So Gideon took the men down to the water. There the Lord told him, “Separate those who lap the water with their tongues as a dog laps from those who kneel down to drink.” [6] Three hundred of them drank from cupped hands, lapping like dogs. All the rest got down on their knees to drink. [7] The Lord said to Gideon, “With the three hundred men that lapped I will save you and give the Midianites into your hands. Let all the others go home.”

** A true Bible-based perspective of our future beyond this life in order to understand our journey through it. Without such a Scripture-based forward look to the paradise that awaits us, we often err by making this life our destination and eternity but an afterthought.

For those of us securely in Christ, our future millennial reign with Him provides a context into which we can place personal tragedies and other experiences during our short-lived journey this side of eternity.

The Bible gives a picture of eternity that breathes hope into our lives and brings peace amid the turmoil of this life. As the collision of this world with the seven-year Tribulation looms ever so close, it’s essential that we focus on Jesus’ imminent appearing. <B26>

Revelation 21:4 NIV

[4] 'He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death' or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.”

** The Lord knows no time limit; He reigns from generation to generation without end!

Lamentations 5:19 NIV

[19] You, Lord, reign forever; your throne endures from generation to generation.

** Sin makes the cup of affliction a bitter cup but we can always find strength in the Lord to overcome; because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed!

Lamentations 3:19-22 NIV

[19] I remember my affliction and my wandering, the bitterness and the gall. [20] I well remember them, and my soul is downcast within me. [21] Yet this I call to mind and therefore I have hope: [22] Because of the Lord's great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail.

** Satan works through individuals to accomplish his goals; we must see the Pharisees of Jesus’ day in the same light, having a religious veneer (saying they desire what is good) but being empty on the inside and being used by Satan for his agendas

Today, we see Satan’s puppets utter lies while not valuing human life; they have openly stated the desire to reduce the earth’s population and will do so through whatever means possible — abortion, euthanasia, drugs, biotech, etc

There are a few tiers of participants:

a) Those proposing the lies who know they are not telling the truth but desire the global agenda; using a means to an end

b) Those who believe the lies and faithfully watch mainstream media; low info and going with the flow — even trusting professionals who we trusted in the past

c) Those who are ‘useful idiots’ who may not believe what they hear but go along with and perpetuate the lies just to survive

Christians are to tell the truth and if they don’t believe then shake the dust off your feet; the goal is to reach people and pray they get saved, like being on the battlefield among confused warriors who need direction as to where to go to be rescued <H86>

John 8:44 NIV

[44] You belong to your father, the devil, and you want to carry out your father's desires. He was a murderer from the beginning, not holding to the truth, for there is no truth in him. When he lies, he speaks his native language, for he is a liar and the father of lies.

** Evil doesn’t win forever, for one day there will be a reckoning against this world and evil doers will be judged; God’s perfect government will replace what we see now! <M131> (Sep 2021)

Psalm 2:1-6 NIV

** God allows man and Satan’s wrath to unfold on His people when the stage is being set for the Tribulation, but God will spare believers from His end times wrath; therefore the Rapture of the church must happen before the horrific Tribulation <M131>

1 Thessalonians 4:16 NIV

[16] For the Lord himself will come down from heaven, with a loud command, with the voice of the archangel and with the trumpet call of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first.

1 Thessalonians 5:9 NIV

[9] For God did not appoint us to suffer wrath but to receive salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ.

Revelation 3:10 NIV

[10] Since you have kept my command to endure patiently, I will also keep you from the hour of trial that is going to come on the whole world to test the inhabitants of the earth.

Philippians 3:20 NIV

[20] But our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ

1 Corinthians 15:52 NIV

[52] in a flash, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet. For the trumpet will sound, the dead will be raised imperishable, and we will be changed

** A friend is one who loves, and does not cease to love. Christ having loved His people, loves them unto the end.

One quality of true friendship is trust. What could be more sacred than this comfort of feeling safe with a person, absolutely safe? That is the kind of friend Jesus is. You may always feel safe with Him. You may confess all your sins to Him. You may tell Him all your faults and your failures — how you denied Him the other night, how you failed to be true to Him, and all the evil thoughts of your heart; and He will be just as tender and gracious, as if you never sinned! He loves to the end!

None of us would want to have our hearts photographed, and the picture held up before the eyes of our neighbors! We would not want even our best friends to see a full transcript of our secret life — what goes on within us, the:

• Jealousies

• Envyings

• Bitter feelings

• Impure thoughts

• Meannesses

• Selfishnesses

• Suspicions

• Doubts and fears!

Yet Christ sees all this unworthy inner life. He knows the worst that is in us, and loves us still! We do not need to hide our weaknesses from Him. He never withdraws His love. We may trust Him absolutely and forever! <M136>

John 13:1 NIV

[1] It was just before the Passover Festival. Jesus knew that the hour had come for him to leave this world and go to the Father. Having loved his own who were in the world, he loved them to the end.

** The Lord protected Jeremiah because he trusted the Lord; God promised this to Jeremiah before Jerusalem fell to the Babylonians

Jeremiah 39:11-14 NIV

[11] Now Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon had given these orders about Jeremiah through Nebuzaradan commander of the imperial guard: [12] “Take him and look after him; don't harm him but do for him whatever he asks.” [13] So Nebuzaradan the commander of the guard, Nebushazban a chief officer, Nergal-Sharezer a high official and all the other officers of the king of Babylon [14] sent and had Jeremiah taken out of the courtyard of the guard. They turned him over to Gedaliah son of Ahikam, the son of Shaphan, to take him back to his home. So he remained among his own people.

Jeremiah 39:15-18 NIV

[15] While Jeremiah had been confined in the courtyard of the guard, the word of the Lord came to him: [16] “Go and tell Ebed-Melek the Cushite, 'This is what the Lord Almighty, the God of Israel, says: I am about to fulfill my words against this city---words concerning disaster, not prosperity. At that time they will be fulfilled before your eyes. [17] But I will rescue you on that day, declares the Lord; you will not be given into the hands of those you fear. [18] I will save you; you will not fall by the sword but will escape with your life, because you trust in me, declares the Lord.' ”

** How is Christianity different from all other man-made religions?

• Being a Christian offers the only hope for the believer that after we die, we gain what we can only imagine in this life

• It's not like the Muslim who fears a non-existent god whose only call is for them to die a martyr for “allah”

• It’s not like the Buddhist who believes in a long dead philosopher that is only good for this life and attempts to live a morally clean life

• For the Christian, to die is to gain....it is everything! <T201>

1 Corinthians 2:9 NIV

[9] However, as it is written: “What no eye has seen, what no ear has heard, and what no human mind has conceived”---the things God has prepared for those who love him—

** Everyone of us want to go to heaven, as this earth is nothing but sin and misery. Oh, God gives us the things that are necessary to endure the years we have on this earth, so we can work for Him, and He knows what we need to endure this life. But we are but pilgrims in a land that is not our home. We search for a home not built with hands, but is waiting for us, as Jesus will bring us to His Father's House and where our mansions are being made right now.

But the rub of the point is we will cling to this life with both hands until the very last second, as we pray for long life even if we acknowledge the joy that we want to go home. It is bred into our DNA that is called the sympathetic nervous system, or “fight or flight” to preserve life. Even though we know the next life is by far better than the one we now live, we fight to live a long life. God gave us a commandment that our days would be long on this earth:

Ephesians 6:2-3 NIV

[2] “Honor your father and mother”---which is the first commandment with a promise--- [3] “so that it may go well with you and that you may enjoy long life on the earth.”

With what has been said, it appears quite contradictory. The promise is that we will live a long life upon the earth by honoring our father and mother in this life. Knowing our doctrine of to “die is gain” it would seem illogical to reward believers with a long life on this earth.

As the old saying goes, "Everybody wants to go to heaven, but nobody wants to die." Atheists are quick to point out the seeming inconsistency to that position as 'evidence' that our faith, no matter how staunchly we might defend it, is really just a sham, like whistling past the graveyard.

Being dead is far different that ‘getting dead’. The fear anyone has is getting there, than it is of being there. So the promise given by God that “my days be long upon the earth” is attractive to the mortal flesh, because none of us are eager or looking forward to the jumping off point, even though we long to be clothed with immortality.

No one wants to die prematurely, that is before the fullness of days for one's chances to do what is right will have all been used up. Someday, I will stand before my Lord Jesus Christ and be rewarded for what I have accomplished in this life, for HIM, not for myself. None of us know how much time we have left, so we should not waste a moment, as I know within myself of what I have wasted already, so I can't afford to spare another second for anything but the glory of God. <T201>

2 Corinthians 5:1-3 NIV

[1] For we know that if the earthly tent we live in is destroyed, we have a building from God, an eternal house in heaven, not built by human hands. [2] Meanwhile we groan, longing to be clothed instead with our heavenly dwelling, [3] because when we are clothed, we will not be found naked.

** Can you fathom what the verses in Romans 8 mean? It is almost too glorious to ponder and beyond our immediate comprehension of its full implications. It is a infinite promise of future glory of those found in Christ.

Romans 8:17 says we will be “joint heirs” of our Savior Jesus Christ. Heirs of what? Simple answer is that all that He is in spiritual nature, in His glory, in the ability of our mind to comprehend as we will have the mind of Christ (1st Corinthians 2:16), and in the inheritance that He, our Savior has, we will be given the same inheritance. For a lack of a better illustration, we will be adopted into the family of YAHWEH, Jehovah, God Almighty, God the Father. Jesus will be our “Big Brother” if we can even call Him that. He is our King, but He is our elder brother in a family type relationship. We will be adopted because Jesus will bring us into the family at the Marriage Supper of the Lamb, when we are joined to Him, our bethrothed, our Groom spiritually, as a groom takes his wife and they become one.

I can't EVEN imagine it...my mind cannot wrap around such glory. Our God and our Savior will be the source of all of our glory and power upon this earth during a time when the earth is restored to its former glory as during the Garden of Eden. It will be a perfect environment with no war, no inclement weather, no disease, and no tempter of the nations. Satan will be given his Sabbath rest of 1000 years from being the source of all temptation and lies. But note, even though we will be on this earth during the Millennium, this planet is NOT our home, till God creates a New Heaven and new earth. Jesus told us where our home is and it's in 3rd heaven with our God and Father. <T201>

Romans 8:17-19 NIV

[17] Now if we are children, then we are heirs---heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ, if indeed we share in his sufferings in order that we may also share in his glory. [18] I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us. [19] For the creation waits in eager expectation for the children of God to be revealed.

** When Jeremiah speaks about God making a new covenant (Jer. 31:31–33), much of what he says is similar in principle to the Sinai covenant. But when he says that part of that new relationship will include the complete forgiveness of sins, then we know that is accomplished only by Jesus Christ.

Jeremiah 31:31-33 NIV

[31] “The days are coming,” declares the Lord, “when I will make a new covenant with the people of Israel and with the people of Judah. [32] It will not be like the covenant I made with their ancestors when I took them by the hand to lead them out of Egypt, because they broke my covenant, though I was a husband to them, ” declares the Lord. [33] “This is the covenant I will make with the people of Israel after that time,” declares the Lord. “I will put my law in their minds and write it on their hearts. I will be their God, and they will be my people.

** Though the afflictions of the church will last long, they will not last always <H83>

Jeremiah 30:3 NIV

[3] The days are coming,' declares the Lord, 'when I will bring my people Israel and Judah back from captivity and restore them to the land I gave their ancestors to possess,' says the Lord.”

** We must be always turning toward the Light, to keep our life true and according to God's commandments.

There are some flowers which always turn toward the sun. There was a little potted rose-bush in a sick-room which I visited. It sat by the window. One day I noticed that the one rose on the bush was looking toward the light. I referred to it, and the sick woman said that her daughter had turned the rose around several times toward the darkness of the room — but that each time the little flower had twisted itself back, until again its face was toward the light. It would not look into the darkness.

The rose taught me a lesson: never to allow myself to look toward any evil, but instantly to turn from it. Not a moment should we permit our eyes to be inclined toward anything sinful. To yield to one moment's sinful act, is to defile the soul. One of the main messages of the Bible is, "Turn from the wrong, the base, the crude, the unworthy, to the right, the pure, the noble, the godlike!" We should not allow even an unholy thought to stay a moment in our mind but should turn from its very first suggestion, with face fully toward Christ, the Holy One. <M136>

Psalm 101:3 NIV

[3] I will not look with approval on anything that is vile. I hate what faithless people do; I will have no part in it.

Philippians 4:8 NIV

[8] Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable---if anything is excellent or praiseworthy---think about such things.

Psalm 119:37 NIV

[37] Turn my eyes away from worthless things; preserve my life according to your word.

** Email discussions with an associate pastor of a church mentioned that at one time he agreed with the Pretrib rapture after a pastor took him through the biblical passages pertaining to it. However, after reading a few books by Amillennial authors, he ditched both his Premillennial and Pretrib views in favor of what he read outside of God’s Word. His new understanding came from human wisdom rather than the words of the Bible.

When we look to Scripture, we see that the rapture is a real event. It’s not something that coincides with human wisdom, but is something the Lord revealed to His apostles (1 Thess 4:15; 1 Cor 15:51a) so that we might have hope and encourage each other regardless of what we face. <B26>

1 Thessalonians 4:15-18 NIV

[15] According to the Lord's word, we tell you that we who are still alive, who are left until the coming of the Lord, will certainly not precede those who have fallen asleep. [16] For the Lord himself will come down from heaven, with a loud command, with the voice of the archangel and with the trumpet call of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first. [17] After that, we who are still alive and are left will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And so we will be with the Lord forever. [18] Therefore encourage one another with these words.

1 Corinthians 15:51-52 NIV

** The things of this world are not the best things, and are often given to those who refuse to serve God <H83>

• In the end, those receiving the largest share of worldly things will be made to serve their enemies who seek to ruin them

• Conversely, God can restore a nation as desired in His timing

• As followers of Christ, we have the ultimate future eternal hope and blessing than those who seem to have the upper-hand in this life!

Jeremiah 27:16-17 NIV

[16] Then I said to the priests and all these people, “This is what the Lord says: Do not listen to the prophets who say, 'Very soon now the articles from the Lord's house will be brought back from Babylon.' They are prophesying lies to you. [17] Do not listen to them. Serve the king of Babylon, and you will live. Why should this city become a ruin?

Jeremiah 27:19,22 NIV

[19] For this is what the Lord Almighty says about the pillars, the bronze Sea, the movable stands and the other articles that are left in this city, [22] 'They will be taken to Babylon and there they will remain until the day I come for them,' declares the Lord. 'Then I will bring them back and restore them to this place.' ”

Ephesians 1:3,7-10 NIV

[3] Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in the heavenly realms with every spiritual blessing in Christ. [7] In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God's grace [8] that he lavished on us. With all wisdom and understanding, [9] he made known to us the mystery of his will according to his good pleasure, which he purposed in Christ, [10] to be put into effect when the times reach their fulfillment---to bring unity to all things in heaven and on earth under Christ.

** God WILL accomplish what He sets out to accomplish, for He knows the end from the beginning

Isaiah 46:8-10 NIV

[8] “Remember this, keep it in mind, take it to heart, you rebels. [9] Remember the former things, those of long ago; I am God, and there is no other; I am God, and there is none like me. [10] I make known the end from the beginning, from ancient times, what is still to come. I say, 'My purpose will stand, and I will do all that I please.'

** Appealing to God to withhold His wrath is as simple as recognizing sin in your life and wholeheartedly turning to God to be cleansed of this sin

Jeremiah 4:14 NIV

[14] Jerusalem, wash the evil from your heart and be saved. How long will you harbor wicked thoughts?

Jeremiah 4:18 NIV

[18] “Your own conduct and actions have brought this on you. This is your punishment. How bitter it is! How it pierces to the heart!”

** Israel and followers of Christ have a great future hope in a new creation, for the Lord will rescue us out of the darkness and He will be glorified!

Isaiah 60:1-3 NIV

[1] “Arise, shine, for your light has come, and the glory of the Lord rises upon you. [2] See, darkness covers the earth and thick darkness is over the peoples, but the Lord rises upon you and his glory appears over you. [3] Nations will come to your light, and kings to the brightness of your dawn.

Isaiah 60:4-6 NIV

[4] “Lift up your eyes and look about you: All assemble and come to you; your sons come from afar, and your daughters are carried on the hip. [5] Then you will look and be radiant, your heart will throb and swell with joy; the wealth on the seas will be brought to you, to you the riches of the nations will come. [6] Herds of camels will cover your land, young camels of Midian and Ephah. And all from Sheba will come, bearing gold and incense and proclaiming the praise of the Lord.

Isaiah 60:9 NIV

[9] Surely the islands look to me; in the lead are the ships of Tarshish, bringing your children from afar, with their silver and gold, to the honor of the Lord your God, the Holy One of Israel, for he has endowed you with splendor.

** There are two Gog (Russia) & Magog wars in Scripture <T203>

1. Ezekiel 38-39 — actual physical restoration of Israel and His followers

2. Revelation 20 — spiritual restoration

EZEKIEL 38-39

• God gathers the Israelites in their land and then God will cleanse them from their filthiness

• armies primarily come from the north and involve only a few nations

• no mention of Satan

• the dead will be buried

• used by God to bring Israel back to Him

• followers of Christ will be gone for this first war

Ezekiel 36:24-25 NIV

[24] “ 'For I will take you out of the nations; I will gather you from all the countries and bring you back into your own land. [25] I will sprinkle clean water on you, and you will be clean; I will cleanse you from all your impurities and from all your idols.

Ezekiel 38:6 NIV

[6] also Gomer with all its troops, and Beth Togarmah from the far north with all its troops---the many nations with you.

Ezekiel 38:15 NIV

[15] You will come from your place in the far north, you and many nations with you, all of them riding on horses, a great horde, a mighty army.

Ezekiel 39:2 NIV

[2] I will turn you around and drag you along. I will bring you from the far north and send you against the mountains of Israel.

Ezekiel 39:21-29 NIV

[21] “I will display my glory among the nations, and all the nations will see the punishment I inflict and the hand I lay on them. [22] From that day forward the people of Israel will know that I am the Lord their God. [23] And the nations will know that the people of Israel went into exile for their sin, because they were unfaithful to me. So I hid my face from them and handed them over to their enemies, and they all fell by the sword. [24] I dealt with them according to their uncleanness and their offenses, and I hid my face from them. [25] “Therefore this is what the Sovereign Lord says: I will now restore the fortunes of Jacob and will have compassion on all the people of Israel, and I will be zealous for my holy name. [26] They will forget their shame and all the unfaithfulness they showed toward me when they lived in safety in their land with no one to make them afraid. [27] When I have brought them back from the nations and have gathered them from the countries of their enemies, I will be proved holy through them in the sight of many nations. [28] Then they will know that I am the Lord their God, for though I sent them into exile among the nations, I will gather them to their own land, not leaving any behind. [29] I will no longer hide my face from them, for I will pour out my Spirit on the people of Israel, declares the Sovereign Lord. ”

Zechariah 12:10 NIV

[10] “And I will pour out on the house of David and the inhabitants of Jerusalem a spirit of grace and supplication. They will look on me, the one they have pierced, and they will mourn for him as one mourns for an only child, and grieve bitterly for him as one grieves for a firstborn son.

REVELATION 20

• involves all nations coming from all directions

• Satan is the primary character at the end of the millennium

• no need to bury the dead because after this battle is the Great White Throne Judgment with the current heaven and earth destroyed & replaced

• Israel has been faithful to God for 1000 years; the rebellious are destroyed

• followers of Christ will return with Him for this battle

Revelation 20:7-10 NIV

[7] When the thousand years are over, Satan will be released from his prison [8] and will go out to deceive the nations in the four corners of the earth---Gog and Magog---and to gather them for battle. In number they are like the sand on the seashore. [9] They marched across the breadth of the earth and surrounded the camp of God's people, the city he loves. But fire came down from heaven and devoured them. [10] And the devil, who deceived them, was thrown into the lake of burning sulfur, where the beast and the false prophet had been thrown. They will be tormented day and night for ever and ever.

Revelation 20:11-15 NIV

** Regardless of our guilt when caught in sin and attempts to get clean, we will not succeed unless we repent of our sin and ask God for forgiveness

Jeremiah 2:22 NIV

[22] Although you wash yourself with soap and use an abundance of cleansing powder, the stain of your guilt is still before me,” declares the Sovereign Lord.

Jeremiah 2:26 NIV

[26] “As a thief is disgraced when he is caught, so the people of Israel are disgraced---they, their kings and their officials, their priests and their prophets.

** Isaiah describes the New Jerusalem; John confirms this vision in the New Testament

Isaiah 66:20-22 NIV

[20] And they will bring all your people, from all the nations, to my holy mountain in Jerusalem as an offering to the Lord---on horses, in chariots and wagons, and on mules and camels,” says the Lord. “They will bring them, as the Israelites bring their grain offerings, to the temple of the Lord in ceremonially clean vessels. [21] And I will select some of them also to be priests and Levites,” says the Lord. [22] “As the new heavens and the new earth that I make will endure before me,” declares the Lord, “so will your name and descendants endure.

Revelation 21:10-11,21,24-27 NIV

[10] And he carried me away in the Spirit to a mountain great and high, and showed me the Holy City, Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God. [11] It shone with the glory of God, and its brilliance was like that of a very precious jewel, like a jasper, clear as crystal. [21] The twelve gates were twelve pearls, each gate made of a single pearl. The great street of the city was of gold, as pure as transparent glass. [24] The nations will walk by its light, and the kings of the earth will bring their splendor into it. [25] On no day will its gates ever be shut, for there will be no night there. [26] The glory and honor of the nations will be brought into it. [27] Nothing impure will ever enter it, nor will anyone who does what is shameful or deceitful, but only those whose names are written in the Lamb's book of life.

** The business of the prophets was to preach and pray; in this light, God commissioned Isaiah to remind His people of the great things He would do after their return out of captivity — including dawning of righteousness, glory, new name and being a triumphant establishment of Zion by God <S192>

Isaiah 62:2-3,11-12 NIV

[2] The nations will see your vindication, and all kings your glory; you will be called by a new name that the mouth of the Lord will bestow. [3] You will be a crown of splendor in the Lord's hand, a royal diadem in the hand of your God. [11] The Lord has made proclamation to the ends of the earth: “Say to Daughter Zion, 'See, your Savior comes! See, his reward is with him, and his recompense accompanies him.' ” [12] They will be called the Holy People, the Redeemed of the Lord; and you will be called Sought After, the City No Longer Deserted.

Isaiah 65:15 NIV

[15] You will leave your name for my chosen ones to use in their curses; the Sovereign Lord will put you to death, but to his servants he will give another name.

Jeremiah 33:16 NIV

[16] In those days Judah will be saved and Jerusalem will live in safety. This is the name by which it will be called: The Lord Our Righteous Savior.'

** God created the world to have it inhabited; God is a God of relationship

Isaiah 45:18 NIV

[18] For this is what the Lord says---he who created the heavens, he is God; he who fashioned and made the earth, he founded it; he did not create it to be empty, but formed it to be inhabited---he says: “I am the Lord, and there is no other.

** We can see the devastation of sin on our world today! Sin is that abominable thing which God hates.

Even now sin stalks through our fallen world with gigantic strides, spreading ruin and wretchedness around in ten thousand forms. Strife and discord, war and bloodshed, famine and pestilence, pain and sickness follow in sin's train--while death mounted on his pale horse, with the grave and Hell follow in the rear.

Such are the miseries which sin has introduced into this once happy world. Such are the evils which attend its progress here, notwithstanding the various restraints which are employed to check its Hellward career.

God rejoices when sinners repent because it gratifies Him to see them escape from the tyranny and from the consequences of sin. God is light--perfect holiness. God is love--pure benevolence. His holiness and his benevolence both prompt Him to rejoice when sinners escape from sin.

Who can conceive of the joy with which the Son of God must contemplate an immortal soul, drawn to his feet by the cords of love--whom He has rescued from the roaring lion at such an infinite expense? How greatly must Christ love and prize and rejoice in every penitent sinner! His love and joy must he unutterable, inconceivable, infinite!

If He thus rejoices over one sinner who repents--then what must be His joy when all His people are collected out of every tongue and kindred and nation and people, and presented spotless before His Father's throne! What a full tide of felicity will pour in upon Him, and how will His benevolent heart expand with unutterable delight, and swell almost to bursting--when contemplating the countless myriads whom He has redeemed! <P164>

Luke 15:10 NIV

[10] In the same way, I tell you, there is rejoicing in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents.

** The Jewish concept of “peace” is “shalom” (from Hebrew origins) which is vastly different than our normative concept in today’s society

Peace is not just the absence of all conflict but also the presence of everything good; peace is not neutral — we are not to be satisfied with the absence of conflict but we are to actively bring the Gospel message and hope we have

Because of what Jesus did on the cross, we CAN offer hope to others that God will remove their sin and they can also become righteous before Him

If we want to be peacemakers in today’s insane world:

a) keep Gospel convictions because bringing peace is not joining the latest cultural movement or to strive for unity between warring factions — we need to tell God’s truth in love to a hurting world

b) keep having Gospel conversations with those who are not like us in our non-Christian world; we can no longer assume the other person knows the basics of Christianity

c) if we follow the first two steps we can enjoy Gospel reconciliation, for peace can pass understanding with God’s help; we have no hope of living out the beatitudes without God to show us the way and enable us to do so <J104>

Matthew 5:9 NIV

[9] Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.

Ephesians 4:15 NIV

[15] Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will grow to become in every respect the mature body of him who is the head, that is, Christ.

** Dead people do not demand anything or buy into the evil things in this life, for after we die to ourselves, we begin to desire only what Christ desires because Christ lives in the believer!

Galatians 2:20 NIV

[20] I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.

Philippians 3:10-11 NIV

[10] I want to know Christ---yes, to know the power of his resurrection and participation in his sufferings, becoming like him in his death, [11] and so, somehow, attaining to the resurrection from the dead.

Galatians 5:24-25 NIV

[24] Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. [25] Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit.

• Believers are not bound to sin any longer because every sin has been dealt with when Christ died on the cross <H84>

Romans 6:6-7 NIV

Romans 13:14 NIV

[14] Rather, clothe yourselves with the Lord Jesus Christ, and do not think about how to gratify the desires of the flesh.

** The Bible clearly states that, as the end times draw closer, things will go from bad to worse. In fact, things will get so bad that Christ Himself has to return to make things right. Humans can’t do it, no matter how well-intentioned.

My hope is not in D.C.

My hope is in Christ.

As should yours be.

My freedoms may dwindle.

However, my freedom is in Christ.

Let’s get our priorities realigned and realize political alliances are not with the Democrats or the Republicans. We are Monarchists with an allegiance to Christ the King. He will come back and fix all this; do not plant roots in this life for our home is a heavenly one. Our reality is an eternal reality.

Therefore, don’t let this world ruin your thinking or your attitude. Don’t worry that the world is increasingly shutting us out of the public arena. Jesus tells us that even though we have little strength, the door will remain open (Rev. 3:8-10). Satan knows he can’t steal our salvation, but he loves to crush our hope and spirit. He loves to cause us to be depressed, angry, or anxious. Don’t let him. Ephesians 6 gives us the tools to fight the fiery darts of the enemy. The days may turn sour in the here and now, but just remember we have far better days ahead. <G70> (Feb 2021)

Philippians 3:17-21 NIV

[17] Join together in following my example, brothers and sisters, and just as you have us as a model, keep your eyes on those who live as we do. [18] For, as I have often told you before and now tell you again even with tears, many live as enemies of the cross of Christ. [19] Their destiny is destruction, their god is their stomach, and their glory is in their shame. Their mind is set on earthly things. [20] But our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ, [21] who, by the power that enables him to bring everything under his control, will transform our lowly bodies so that they will be like his glorious body.

2 Corinthians 4:16-18 NIV

[16] Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. [17] For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. [18] So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.

** Life can get lonely; how wonderful this world is not the end of the story

Isaiah 57:1 NIV

[1] The righteous perish, and no one takes it to heart; the devout are taken away, and no one understands that the righteous are taken away to be spared from evil.

** God encourages humans to “look up” to Him who will destroy the earth as we know it but can save them; this begins to take place in the Tribulation setting the stage for a renewed earth during the Millennium

Revelation 6:12-14 NIV

[12] I watched as he opened the sixth seal. There was a great earthquake. The sun turned black like sackcloth made of goat hair, the whole moon turned blood red, [13] and the stars in the sky fell to earth, as figs drop from a fig tree when shaken by a strong wind. [14] The heavens receded like a scroll being rolled up, and every mountain and island was removed from its place.

Revelation 8:12-13 NIV

[12] The fourth angel sounded his trumpet, and a third of the sun was struck, a third of the moon, and a third of the stars, so that a third of them turned dark. A third of the day was without light, and also a third of the night. [13] As I watched, I heard an eagle that was flying in midair call out in a loud voice: “Woe! Woe! Woe to the inhabitants of the earth, because of the trumpet blasts about to be sounded by the other three angels!”

Revelation 16:8-10,21 NIV

[8] The fourth angel poured out his bowl on the sun, and the sun was allowed to scorch people with fire. [9] They were seared by the intense heat and they cursed the name of God, who had control over these plagues, but they refused to repent and glorify him. [10] The fifth angel poured out his bowl on the throne of the beast, and its kingdom was plunged into darkness. People gnawed their tongues in agony [21] From the sky huge hailstones, each weighing about a hundred pounds, fell on people. And they cursed God on account of the plague of hail, because the plague was so terrible.

The final destruction of the earth happens at the end of Christ’s millennial reign, when a new Heaven and new earth will replace the current <M130>

2 Peter 3:10-13 NIV

[10] But the day of the Lord will come like a thief. The heavens will disappear with a roar; the elements will be destroyed by fire, and the earth and everything done in it will be laid bare. [11] Since everything will be destroyed in this way, what kind of people ought you to be? You ought to live holy and godly lives [12] as you look forward to the day of God and speed its coming. That day will bring about the destruction of the heavens by fire, and the elements will melt in the heat. [13] But in keeping with his promise we are looking forward to a new heaven and a new earth, where righteousness dwells.

Isaiah 65:17 NIV

[17] “See, I will create new heavens and a new earth. The former things will not be remembered, nor will they come to mind.

** Revelation has many symbols that refer to actual events; we should take this book literally and understand that it points us to future events just like the 50% of prophecy that has already been fulfilled literally to date in Scripture

Symbolism most often refers back to Old Testament passages that point to literal meaning; John explains what the symbols mean when the Old Testament passages are not referenced, according to what God revealed to him — this is not a matter of opinion or allegory but actual revelation from God

Interpreting Revelation in this way (literal future events) follows the early church before the Greeks started to add all sorts of allegorical interpretation to the Bible; even Reformers like Luther, Calvin and Catholics along with many present-day leaders in the church also have/had little regard for Revelation, so it shouldn’t surprise us that mainstream church today ignores Revelation

Why this kickback against Revelation? Satan does not want us to know how his kingdom of darkness will be destroyed; God has signed, sealed and will deliver on His plan as outlined in Scripture... so instead of looking to future consequence for sin as prophecy lays out, churches focus on social gospel in efforts to make life better now

We either take John for his word or we ignore it; God knew there would be opposition so that’s why His prophecy comes with a blessing; continue to sound the alarm that, yes indeed, the events as described in Scripture are coming true and we recognize the end-times season that gives us hope! <H86>

Revelation 1:1-2 NIV

[1] The revelation from Jesus Christ, which God gave him to show his servants what must soon take place. He made it known by sending his angel to his servant John, [2] who testifies to everything he saw---that is, the word of God and the testimony of Jesus Christ.

** Isaiah foreshadowed a ‘universal resurrection’ of believers when the dead in Christ will rise from the earth, assuring all believers they will have a part in this great day <B20>

• These prophecies are seen by Christians as foreshadowing Jesus' resurrection, which validated his claims and message

• The idea of a 'universal resurrection' and gathering connects to the belief that God's plan of salvation is for all nations, not just one group of people

• These Old Testament prophecies are considered important because they show the continuity of the biblical message of God's redemptive plan that carries into the New Testament <W2201>

Isaiah 26:19 NIV

Isaiah 25:8 NIV

[8] he will swallow up death forever. The Sovereign Lord will wipe away the tears from all faces; he will remove his people's disgrace from all the earth. The Lord has spoken.

Ephesians 5:14 NIV

[14] This is why it is said: “Wake up, sleeper, rise from the dead, and Christ will shine on you.”

Ezekiel 37:12 NIV

[12] Therefore prophesy and say to them: 'This is what the Sovereign Lord says: My people, I am going to open your graves and bring you up from them; I will bring you back to the land of Israel.

Daniel 12:2 NIV

[2] Multitudes who sleep in the dust of the earth will awake: some to everlasting life, others to shame and everlasting contempt.

Hosea 13:14 NIV

[14] “I will deliver this people from the power of the grave; I will redeem them from death. Where, O death, are your plagues? Where, O grave, is your destruction? “I will have no compassion

** We are born for higher things than this poor world can afford us.

We know by sad experience what pain and sorrow mean; and frequent are the occasions on which tears flow down our cheeks. Death too, that king of terrors, warns us of the pains which we shall speedily endure in our conflicts with him.

This whole world is little else than a valley of tears. At best it is a chequered scene, and sorrows are continually intermingled with our joys.

But in Heaven there will be no more pain, or sorrow, or crying; our happiness will be uninterrupted and without mixture.

Nor will there be any termination of our Heavenly bliss; for "there will be no more death." Whatever tears bedewed our cheeks in our departing hours, they will all be wiped away by God Himself; who will, from the instant of our entrance into His presence, seat us on His throne, put an unfading crown of glory upon our head, and invest us with all the glory and felicity of His kingdom.

When joy and gladness have thus taken possession of our souls, not only will sorrow and sighing flee away--but all occasion for them, all scope for the exercise of them, will vanish forever!

The crowning jewel of that blissful state is that the Lord Jesus Christ, in all the glory of His person, and in all the wonders of His love, will be made clear to us as the sun at noon-day.

1 John 3:2 NIV

[2] Dear friends, now we are children of God, and what we will be has not yet been made known. But we know that when Christ appears, we shall be like him, for we shall see him as he is.

O that we were able to speak of it as we ought! But we feel the subject far too great for our feeble grasp. <S179>

Revelation 21:4 NIV

[4] 'He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death' or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.”

Philippians 3:20-21 NIV

** The Lord God knows the beginning from the end and He WILL fulfill prophecy

Isaiah 44:24-28 NIV

[24] “This is what the Lord says---your Redeemer, who formed you in the womb: I am the Lord, the Maker of all things, who stretches out the heavens, who spreads out the earth by myself, [25] who foils the signs of false prophets and makes fools of diviners, who overthrows the learning of the wise and turns it into nonsense, [26] who carries out the words of his servants and fulfills the predictions of his messengers, who says of Jerusalem, 'It shall be inhabited,' of the towns of Judah, 'They shall be rebuilt,' and of their ruins, 'I will restore them,' [27] who says to the watery deep, 'Be dry, and I will dry up your streams,' [28] who says of Cyrus, 'He is my shepherd and will accomplish all that I please; he will say of Jerusalem, “Let it be rebuilt,” and of the temple, “Let its foundations be laid.” '

** We belong to God and will identify as such

Isaiah 44:5 NIV

[5] Some will say, 'I belong to the Lord'; others will call themselves by the name of Jacob; still others will write on their hand, 'The Lord's,' and will take the name Israel.

Isaiah 44:21 NIV

[21] “Remember these things, Jacob, for you, Israel, are my servant. I have made you, you are my servant; Israel, I will not forget you.

** The Bema (judgment) Seat is translated as court or tribunal that can be either public or private, similar to Paul before Agrippa; we will ALL stand before God to give an account of our lives

Typically, bema refers to a high platform where the judge sat used for giving awards; the Bema Seat we will face is to determine awards or crowns

The Christian life is a race and the divine umpire is Jesus Christ; after our race is over Christ will gather the Church before the bema in Heaven for the purpose of giving rewards for faithful service after trusting Christ — works don’t save us but we will be held accountable for our efforts!

The varying degree of rewards that the believer receives will be proportionate to the varying degrees of faithfulness they show in this life; the key is faithfulness to the gifts (time, talent, resources) God has given

Romans 14:10 NIV

[10] You, then, why do you judge your brother or sister ? Or why do you treat them with contempt? For we will all stand before God's judgment seat.

2 Corinthians 5:10 NIV

[10] For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, so that each of us may receive what is due us for the things done while in the body, whether good or bad.

Acts 25:22 NIV

[22] Then Agrippa said to Festus, “I would like to hear this man myself.” He replied, “Tomorrow you will hear him.”

Matthew 16:27 NIV

[27] For the Son of Man is going to come in his Father's glory with his angels, and then he will reward each person according to what they have done.

Ephesians 6:8 NIV

[8] because you know that the Lord will reward each one for whatever good they do, whether they are slave or free.

1 Corinthians 3:10,12-13 NIV

[10] By the grace God has given me, I laid a foundation as a wise builder, and someone else is building on it. But each one should build with care. [12] If anyone builds on this foundation using gold, silver, costly stones, wood, hay or straw, [13] their work will be shown for what it is, because the Day will bring it to light. It will be revealed with fire, and the fire will test the quality of each person's work.

1 Corinthians 3:15 NIV

[15] If it is burned up, the builder will suffer loss but yet will be saved---even though only as one escaping through the flames.

Ephesians 5:15-16 NIV

[15] Be very careful, then, how you live---not as unwise but as wise, [16] making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil.

1 John 2:28 NIV

[28] And now, dear children, continue in him, so that when he appears we may be confident and unashamed before him at his coming.

Colossians 3:23-24 NIV

[23] Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, [24] since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving.

Do not confuse this with the other two judgments of Separating Sheep & Goats (after 7 year Tribulation), and the Great White Throne judgment (after 1000 year Millennial Kingdom) both for non-believers <T203>

Matthew 25:31-33 NIV

[31] “When the Son of Man comes in his glory, and all the angels with him, he will sit on his glorious throne. [32] All the nations will be gathered before him, and he will separate the people one from another as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats. [33] He will put the sheep on his right and the goats on his left.

** The righteous anxiously yearn to reside with the Lord and experience leveled paths as they wait in this life

Isaiah 26:7-9 NIV

[7] The path of the righteous is level; you, the Upright One, make the way of the righteous smooth. [8] Yes, Lord, walking in the way of your laws, we wait for you; your name and renown are the desire of our hearts. [9] My soul yearns for you in the night; in the morning my spirit longs for you. When your judgments come upon the earth, the people of the world learn righteousness.

Isaiah 26:12 NIV

[12] Lord, you establish peace for us; all that we have accomplished you have done for us.

** Jesus was resurrected on the third day after Passover, on Sunday, the 17th day of Nisan, in the year AD 33. This monumental event is referred to as Resurrection Sunday.

1 Corinthians 15:20 NIV

[20] But Christ has indeed been raised from the dead, the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep.

Matthew 27:52-53 NIV

[52] and the tombs broke open. The bodies of many holy people who had died were raised to life. [53] They came out of the tombs after Jesus' resurrection and went into the holy city and appeared to many people.

Jesus also resurrected others from death during this time. Although there have been several resurrections of dead people before Jesus, they all died again. Jesus is the only one that has been raised from the dead and is living now in heaven with a resurrected body that is made for eternity. He is the first of his kind in this regard with many more to follow Him in the near future.

By resurrecting many of the Old Testament saints on this Feast of Firstfruits, Christ proved that His power over death was not limited to Himself alone. Many ancient Christian writers refer to this miraculous resurrection of the dead. This event, together with more than five hundred eyewitnesses to the risen Christ, assisted in the rapid spread of the Christian faith… as per 1 Corinthians 15:4-6. Jesus is the ultimate fulfillment of the Feast of Firstfruits. <N154>

1 Corinthians 15:4-6 NIV

[4] that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures, [5] and that he appeared to Cephas, and then to the Twelve. [6] After that, he appeared to more than five hundred of the brothers and sisters at the same time, most of whom are still living, though some have fallen asleep.

** Our life here on earth is short and is fragile; God guarantees we will face death one way or another

Psalm 18:4-5 NIV

[4] The cords of death entangled me; the torrents of destruction overwhelmed me. [5] The cords of the grave coiled around me; the snares of death confronted me.

Psalm 102:23 NIV

[23] In the course of my life he broke my strength; he cut short my days.

** We can have complete peace in any situation for we know our life here on earth is temporary

• Christ will return and take us to a better place before the Great Tribulation

• How will we get to this new place but via the Rapture!

John 14:2-3 NIV

[2] My Father’s house has many rooms; if that were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you? [3] And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am.

1 Thessalonians 4:16,18 NIV

[16] For the Lord himself will come down from heaven, with a loud command, with the voice of the archangel and with the trumpet call of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first. [18] Therefore encourage one another with these words.

1 Corinthians 15:51-52 NIV

• The last trumpet gathers the Church while the first trumpet gathers the Israelites (1 Cor 15)

• Mention of the 'last trumpet' does not refer to the trumpets in the Tribulation but at the Rapture <H84>

Romans 8:10-11 NIV

[10] But if Christ is in you, then even though your body is subject to death because of sin, the Spirit gives life because of righteousness. [11] And if the Spirit of him who raised Jesus from the dead is living in you, he who raised Christ from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies because of his Spirit who lives in you.

1 John 3:2-3 NIV

Revelation 22:7 NIV

[7] “Look, I am coming soon! Blessed is the one who keeps the words of the prophecy written in this scroll.”

Revelation 3:10-11 NIV

[10] Since you have kept my command to endure patiently, I will also keep you from the hour of trial that is going to come on the whole world to test the inhabitants of the earth. [11] I am coming soon. Hold on to what you have, so that no one will take your crown.

** "MY JEWELS!" Of what favored creatures does Jehovah thus speak? Is it of seraphs? Is it of angels? Methinks, at such a title, even they would take the dust of abasement, and veiling their faces, cry, "Unclean! unclean!"

But, marvel of marvels! It is redeemed sinners of the earth — once crude, unshapely stones, lying in "the horrible pit and the miry clay," amid the rubbish of corruption — who are thus sought out by divine grace, purchased by divine love, destined through eternity to be set as jewels in the crown of the eternal God!

A jewel in Immanuel's crown! Not only raised from the ash-heap to be set among princes; but to gem through eternity — the forehead that for me, was once wreathed with thorns. What a comfort to know this is our future! <M129>

Malachi 3:17 KJV

[17] And they shall be mine, saith the Lord of hosts, in that day when I make up my jewels; and I will spare them, as a man spareth his own son that serveth him.

Malachi 3:17 NIV

[17] “On the day when I act,” says the Lord Almighty, “they will be my treasured possession. I will spare them, just as a father has compassion and spares his son who serves him.

Psalm 4:8 NIV

[8] In peace I will lie down and sleep, for you alone, Lord, make me dwell in safety.

** The account of Noah’s flood is a picture foreshadowing the end times when Enoch (representing a Gentile) is taken away while Noah and his family (representing Jews) are saved as they go through the flood; much like the Church that will be raptured in the end times and the nation of Israel that will go through the Tribulation, with the Tribulation Saints surviving <R173>

Remember: the purpose of the Tribulation is the salvation of the Jewish nation

Genesis 5:24 NIV

[24] Enoch walked faithfully with God; then he was no more, because God took him away.

Genesis 6:6-8 NIV

[6] The Lord regretted that he had made human beings on the earth, and his heart was deeply troubled. [7] So the Lord said, “I will wipe from the face of the earth the human race I have created---and with them the animals, the birds and the creatures that move along the ground---for I regret that I have made them. ” [8] But Noah found favor in the eyes of the Lord.

** When Jesus returns to gather believers at the Rapture, all believers will receive their new glorified bodies at that time; mortality and corruption will drop off from those who are still alive and they will take on immortality and incorruptibility, while those who are already dead and occupying a spirit-body will also take on a new glorified body

1 Thessalonians 4:16-17 NIV

Romans 8:30 NIV

[30] And those he predestined, he also called; those he called, he also justified; those he justified, he also glorified.

** Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior, our Kinsman Redeemer, will save us when we acknowledge Him, accept His offer of salvation, understand His promises and aim to live for Him

John 4:42 NIV

[42] They said to the woman, “We no longer believe just because of what you said; now we have heard for ourselves, and we know that this man really is the Savior of the world.”

Job 19:25 NIV

[25] I know that my redeemer lives, and that in the end he will stand on the earth.

Acts 4:11-12 NIV

[11] Jesus is 'the stone you builders rejected, which has become the cornerstone.' [12] Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to mankind by which we must be saved.”

Romans 10:9-11 NIV

[9] If you declare with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. [10] For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you profess your faith and are saved. [11] As Scripture says, “Anyone who believes in him will never be put to shame.”

Luke 19:9-10 NIV

[9] Jesus said to him, “Today salvation has come to this house, because this man, too, is a son of Abraham. [10] For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost.”

John 1:29 NIV

[29] The next day John saw Jesus coming toward him and said, “Look, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!

** The nations may rage and the odds may seem overwhelmingly stacked against us, but this is ALL smoke and mirrors. The truth is Christ has already won the victory back on Calvary some 2,000 years ago. Everything since has been the writhing and thrashing of a headless snake. When God spoke to Satan just after Adam and Eve’s fall, He told Satan that he would bruise His (Jesus’) heel, but He (Jesus) would crush his head (Genesis 3:15). Satan is defeated and is frantically trying to counter this reality by using humans to bring this final kingdom into play earlier, rather than at its appointed time (the 70th Week). God sets the times and boundaries for nations, not Satan.

However, God has allowed Satan to temporarily run this world. He is completely devoted to gaslighting the redeemed in these last days into believing either we are crazy or delusional for believing God is in control. We exist in a physical, natural, fallen creation that operates under the constraints God put in place after the fall of Adam. Thus, we are confined to enemy territory. I see us very much like prisoners of war in a concentration camp, grinding out an existence while the guards and everyone else walks free without a care in the world. However, the war is already over, and their side lost. We are just waiting for the victors to come through and crush them, and liberate us.

God will control what the final crisis is that brings about the conditions for the Tribulation, not Satan. God will continue to use Donald Trump (as He has been) for as long as He wants to, regardless of how impossible His reelection seems now. Remember, God, specializes in the ridiculous. God flooded the entire world. On two separate occasions, God took a slave and made him the second most important leader in two different superpowers (Egypt and Babylon). God parted the Red Seas. He used a young boy to kill a seasoned, giant, warrior. He used a burning bush to speak. God has taken people alive (bypassing death) into heaven and translating them from mortal to immortal on the way up. God has promised to do that with an entire generation of believers. <G70> (Dec 2020)

Acts 17:24-26 NIV

[24] “The God who made the world and everything in it is the Lord of heaven and earth and does not live in temples built by human hands. [25] And he is not served by human hands, as if he needed anything. Rather, he himself gives everyone life and breath and everything else. [26] From one man he made all the nations, that they should inhabit the whole earth; and he marked out their appointed times in history and the boundaries of their lands.

Genesis 3:14-15 NIV

[14] So the Lord God said to the serpent, “Because you have done this, “Cursed are you above all livestock and all wild animals! You will crawl on your belly and you will eat dust all the days of your life. [15] And I will put enmity between you and the woman, and between your offspring and hers; he will crush your head, and you will strike his heel.”

Revelation 3:10-11 NIV

** One would think that so grand and solemn a fact as death, especially viewed in connection with the events which are to immediately follow it — Heaven, Hell and eternity — along with the uncertainty how soon it may be realized might operate with an unlimited and altogether overpowering influence upon men's minds and hearts!

But men wish to forget death. They try to forget it, and alas, too often succeed in accomplishing this fatal oblivion! Yet we can scarcely wonder at this, when we consider what their spiritual condition is--and what death is! <J101>

Psalm 39:4-5 NIV

[4] “Show me, Lord, my life's end and the number of my days; let me know how fleeting my life is. [5] You have made my days a mere handbreadth; the span of my years is as nothing before you. Everyone is but a breath, even those who seem secure.

Psalm 90:12 NIV

[12] Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.

** More than any other book in the Old Testament, Isaiah focuses on the salvation that will come through the Messiah. The Messiah will one day rule in justice and righteousness (Isaiah 9:7; 32:1). The reign of the Messiah will bring peace and safety to Israel (Isaiah 11:6-9). Through the Messiah, Israel will be a light to all the nations (Isaiah 42:6; 55:4-5). The Messiah’s kingdom on earth (Isaiah chapters 65-66) is the goal toward which all of the book of Isaiah points. It is during the reign of the Messiah that God’s righteousness will be fully revealed to the world.

In a seeming paradox, the book of Isaiah also presents the Messiah as one who will suffer. Isaiah chapter 53 vividly describes the Messiah suffering for sin. It is through His wounds that healing is achieved. It is through His suffering that our iniquities are taken away. This apparent contradiction is solved in the Person of Jesus Christ. In His first advent, Jesus was the suffering servant of Isaiah chapter 53. In His second advent, Jesus will be the conquering and ruling King, the Prince of Peace (Isaiah 9:6).

** Look at the picture of the new creation we see in Revelation 21–22. The whole scene in those chapters very deliberately echoes many of the themes in the prophets (the whole book of Revelation is saturated with Old Testament allusions). Read Isaiah 60 and 65:17–25 and then immediately read Revelation 21–22 <W2192>

** The “branch” refers to our Branch who can provide us with spiritual growth; the remnant who reside in Jerusalem will be deemed holy and the fruit of the land will be their pride and glory

2 Samuel 23:5 KJV

[5] Although my house be not so with God; yet he hath made with me an everlasting covenant, ordered in all things, and sure: for this is all my salvation, and all my desire, although he make it not to grow.

Isaiah 4:2-3 NIV

[2] In that day the Branch of the Lord will be beautiful and glorious, and the fruit of the land will be the pride and glory of the survivors in Israel. [3] Those who are left in Zion, who remain in Jerusalem, will be called holy, all who are recorded among the living in Jerusalem.

** Christ followers have an ultimate hope and gain wisdom when we follow His commands

Psalm 111:10 NIV

[10] The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom; all who follow his precepts have good understanding. To him belongs eternal praise.

** David expressed a zealous trust and hope in God, the One who offers us unfailing love, salvation and fulfilled promises

Psalm 119:41-43 NIV

[41] May your unfailing love come to me, Lord, your salvation, according to your promise; [42] then I can answer anyone who taunts me, for I trust in your word. [43] Never take your word of truth from my mouth, for I have put my hope in your laws.

Psalm 119:81 NIV

[81] My soul faints with longing for your salvation, but I have put my hope in your word.

Psalm 119:97 NIV

[97] Oh, how I love your law! I meditate on it all day long.

Psalm 119:123 NIV

[123] My eyes fail, looking for your salvation, looking for your righteous promise.

Psalm 119:139,141,143 NIV

[139] My zeal wears me out, for my enemies ignore your words. [141] Though I am lowly and despised, I do not forget your precepts. [143] Trouble and distress have come upon me, but your commands give me delight.

Psalm 119:162,164 NIV

[162] I rejoice in your promise like one who finds great spoil. [164] Seven times a day I praise you for your righteous laws.

** The book of Isaiah reveals God’s judgment and salvation. God is “holy, holy, holy” (Isaiah 6:3), and therefore He cannot allow sin to go unpunished (Isaiah 1:2; 2:11-20; 5:30; 34:1-2; 42:25). Isaiah portrays God’s oncoming judgment as a “consuming fire” (Isaiah 1:31; 30:33).

At the same time, Isaiah understands that God is a God of mercy, grace, and compassion (Isaiah 5:25; 11:16; 14:1-2; 32:2; 40:3; 41:14-16). The nation of Israel (both Judah and Israel) is blind and deaf to God’s commands (Isaiah 6:9-10; 42:7). Judah is compared to a vineyard that should be, and will be, trampled on (Isaiah 5:1-7). Only because of His mercy and His promises to Israel, will God not allow Israel or Judah to be completely destroyed. He will bring restoration, forgiveness, and healing (43:2; 43:16-19; 52:10-12). <G72>

** I do not need flamboyant descriptions and eloquent representations of the celestial state, to raise my desires and hopes. It is enough to know that it is GLORY — first prepared, then promised, and ultimately bestowed by Jehovah as the concentration of His infinite beneficence and the full manifestation of His boundless benevolence!

Heaven is the:

• Absence of all evil, natural and moral

• Possession of all possible good

• Glorified body united with a perfect soul

• Being in the immediate presence of God!

There we shall see God:

• We shall not only see Him, but love Him!

• We shall not only love Him, but serve Him!

• We shall not only serve Him, but enjoy Him!

• We shall not only enjoy Him, but hold such communion with Him as will assimilate us to the all-perfect source of our felicity!

And experience:

• Perfect knowledge

• perfect holiness and

• perfect love must of necessity

• open the fountain of perfect joy!

No secondary concern will call off our unwearied attention from the service of God; no sin or pain will interrupt us in it; nor will death ever dismiss us from it. The business and the blessedness of that happy state are the same — our supreme delight will be our constant employment!

Every:

• Sense will be an inlet

• Faculty a capacity, and

• Energy a pulsation of the purest bliss!

Heaven will be the:

• Life in perfection

• Life of the soul

• Life of God

• Life of eternity!

But to describe it, how vain and arrogant the attempt, when even to conceive of it is impossible! "In Your presence is fullness of joy! At Your right hand there are pleasures forevermore!" Neither language nor thought can go beyond this! Mind cannot conceive more. God Himself can tell us no more, than that Heaven consists in His presence and the enjoyment of His favor — forever and ever! <J101>

1 Corinthians 2:9 NIV

[9] However, as it is written: “What no eye has seen, what no ear has heard, and what no human mind has conceived”---the things God has prepared for those who love him---

1 John 2:25 NIV

[25] And this is what he promised us---eternal life.

** This present age of grace began with the entry of Jesus Christ into the world to give up His life as the Son of Man as payment for the sins of all mankind, that whosoever believes on Him will not perish but have everlasting life (John 3:16). This era has now spanned over 2,000 years, and still counting. It is the age of grace, that unmerited favor of God whose arm is not shortened that He cannot save. What then is yet to happen before this age comes to an end? <L127>

John 3:16-17 NIV

[16] For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. [17] For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him.

** David understood the concept of redemption in the Old Testament times, perhaps reflecting on how God redeemed His people out of Egypt

• This concept of redemption was certain foreshadowing of Christ coming to die on the cross

• Christ died once and for all, taking the punishment for our sin and redeeming all those who recognize Him and call on His name!

Psalm 111:9 NIV

[9] He provided redemption for his people; he ordained his covenant forever---holy and awesome is his name.

** My dear sister,

It is but a little way and a short time, and we shall be at our eternal home! We ought every moment to be pressing forward.

You will have afflictions and troubles along the way, and so have all God's children. You have them because you need them! You could not grow in grace without them. How could you take up your cross and deny yourself daily--if you did not have daily troubles?

It is the exercise of faith to bear them, and to believe that God deals them out by number, weight, and measure. You have not one pain more than you stand in need of!

And further, "Our light affliction, which is but for a moment, works for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory." If we do but attain to this glory, it signifies very little by what way we come to the attainment of it.

Think on these things, and through the blessing of God, they may help to make you see and feel that the way of suffering is the royal way to the kingdom.

We shall soon meet in our Father's Kingdom, and inherit all that Jesus purchased for us!

I commend you to God and to the riches of His grace, praying Him to do for you exceedingly abundantly above all that you can ask or think.

"Your brother and companion in the suffering and kingdom and patient endurance that are ours in Jesus" Revelation 1:9

I remain, your loving brother,

William Romaine

John 16:33 NIV

[33] “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”

** The Bible lays a solid ground for our comfort when it assures us that all things are under the government of God. He superintends the affairs of this world, both as the provident parent and as the moral governor of His creatures.

The Bible declares that God created them and that whatever beings He deigned to create, He does not disdain to care for. It assures us that no being is so great as to be exempt from His control and none are so little as to be beneath His regard. And, in like manner, that His eye is directed to every event which may befall any one of His creatures — with no event being either so momentous, or so insignificant — as to be beyond His management or unworthy of His notice.

The sparrow which falls to the earth is not less an object of His regard than the seraph that stands before His throne! That all His creatures in this world, and all the events of human life, of whatever kind they may be are under God's regulation and control. This is, of itself, fitted to banish that feeling of uncertainty and hopelessness which the aspect of events might otherwise awaken.

And how important it is to know that:

• Nothing happens by chance

• Everything is ordained and appointed according to certain divine principles which are fixed and stable, and

• Principles will continue to be developed, until the grand end of God's government shall have been attained <B25>

Psalm 97:1 NIV

[1] The Lord reigns, let the earth be glad; let the distant shores rejoice.

** The Apostle Paul experienced anything but his best life now. Paul knew that God has an eternal life awaiting him after he had to be "poured out like a drink offering" (2 Tim 4:6) but "now there is in store for [Paul] the crown of righteousness" (2 Tim 4:8). Everything in this world fades away and we look forward to life eternal -- where our inheritance is imperishable (not subject to decay) and nothing ever fades away! (2 Tim 4:4)

1 Peter 1:4-5

...an inheritance that can never perish, spoil or fade. This inheritance is kept in heaven for you, who through faith are shielded by God’s power until the coming of the salvation that is ready to be revealed in the last time.

People say they will get bored in heaven, but John MacArthur shares his views in this way: "What I envision most about heaven is the absence of the curse , the absence of sin, the absence of decay, all the effects of fallenness and corruption, the absence of conflict, pain, suffering, sorrow, tears, discipline, hatred, misunderstanding, weakness, failure... I can only describe heaven in terms of negatives because I don't know what the description of the absence of those things would be... except perfect holiness and perfect joy... limitless holiness, unbounded peace, that is ready to be revealed in the last time."

2 Timothy 4:18

The Lord will rescue me from every evil attack and will bring me safely to his heavenly kingdom. To him be glory for ever and ever. Amen.

God mercifully saves/regenerates those who believe in Christ from this life of sin by the power of God -- causing us to be born again to a living hope -- and blesses us with an eternal life without sin. WE can not do anything to be born again, anymore than we can control the wind, so our eyes are on our Lord who saves us. All we can do in response to His mercy is to praise Him!

1 Peter 1:3

Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead

** Christians must act now in sharing the Gospel because we are living in end times — time is running short for people to be saved from eternal punishment

• Driven by his conviction and love for others, Paul give his all to win the Corinthians to Christ and lead them to a full present experience of salvation <R1795>

• Our effective ministry should also be driven by a sense of urgency and love

• What an awesome privilege that we have ultimate hope in God from this life of difficulties to eternal blessing

2 Corinthians 6:2 NIV

[2] For he says,

“In the time of my favor I heard you, and in the day of salvation I helped you.” I tell you, now is the time of God's favor, now is the day of salvation.

John 5:24 NIV

[24] “Very truly I tell you, whoever hears my word and believes him who sent me has eternal life and will not be judged but has crossed over from death to life.

** Difference between rapture in 1 Thessalonians 4 and Jesus second coming in Revelation 19 <R173>

Rapture - APPEARS

• Appears in the heavens

• Deliverer

• FOR the church

• Love & compassion

• Bridegroom

Second Coming - RETURNS

• Returns to earth

• Warrior

• WITH the church

• Wrath & vengeance

• King of Kings

** Even with all of Job’s troubles, he still KNEW that his Redeemer lives; Job looked forward to the day when he will be with God!

Job 19:25-27 NIV

** “Praise the Lord” or “Hallelujah” is reserved when praising God for the deliverance from the wicked; it appears mainly in the Old Testament (Psalms 103-118) and one chapter of the New Testament (Revelation 19)

Psalm 103:1 NIV

[1] Praise the Lord, my soul; all my inmost being, praise his holy name.

Psalm 104:35 NIV

[35] But may sinners vanish from the earth and the wicked be no more. Praise the Lord, my soul. Praise the Lord.

The world will never be right until it is under God’s control and His sovereign rule — freedom from sin, righteous justice meted out, God ruling with a rod of iron, man-advancing rebellion ends, the Lord torches the world system to smoldering ash, union with our Savior at the marriage supper (text borrowed from Deut 32) — and the response in heaven is continual “hallelujah” <M130>

Revelation 19:1-3 NIV [John’s vision of heaven]

[1] After this I heard what sounded like the roar of a great multitude in heaven shouting:

“Hallelujah! Salvation and glory and power belong to our God, [2] for true and just are his judgments. He has condemned the great prostitute who corrupted the earth by her adulteries. He has avenged on her the blood of his servants.” [3] And again they shouted: “Hallelujah! The smoke from her goes up for ever and ever.”

** God’s judgment will come after this life on this earth has ended <M130>

• Blessings and rewards are reserved for the righteous

• His punishment is reserved for the unrepentant sinner

• There are foretastes of both punishment and reward during life on earth

• For instance, the righteous experience God’s personal care and goodness, while the wicked are void of it

Proverbs 11:31 NIV

[31] If the righteous receive their due on earth, how much more the ungodly and the sinner!

Proverbs 16:6 NIV

[6] Through love and faithfulness sin is atoned for; through the fear of the Lord evil is avoided.

Proverbs 21:1 NIV

[1] In the Lord's hand the king's heart is a stream of water that he channels toward all who please him.

Proverbs 21:12 NIV

[12] The Righteous One takes note of the house of the wicked and brings the wicked to ruin.

Proverbs 21:16 NIV

[16] Whoever strays from the path of prudence comes to rest in the company of the dead.

** Pagans believe they have within them what it takes to solve the world’s problems while many churches today want to apply God’s law to fix the world

• As followers of Christ, however, we can apply His truth and realize His transforming power but understand the end result

• THE WORLD WILL NOT BE FIXED OR IMPROVED IN ORDER TO WELCOME CHRIST BUT WE NEED TO BE READY FOR CHRIST TO RETURN TO JUDGE AND USHER IN A NEW WORLD!!

• The world will NEVER be right until it is under God’s control and His sovereign rule

• When Christ returns we will have freedom from sin, righteous justice meted out, God ruling with a rod of iron, man-advancing rebellion ends, the Lord torches the world system to smoldering ash, union with our Savior at the marriage supper (text borrowed from Deut 32) — and the response in heaven is continual “hallelujah”!!

1 John 2:15-17 NIV

[15] Do not love the world or anything in the world. If anyone loves the world, love for the Father is not in them. [16] For everything in the world---the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life---comes not from the Father but from the world. [17] The world and its desires pass away, but whoever does the will of God lives forever.

John 12:25 NIV

[25] Anyone who loves their life will lose it, while anyone who hates their life in this world will keep it for eternal life.

Galatians 1:3-5 NIV

[3] Grace and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ, [4] who gave himself for our sins to rescue us from the present evil age, according to the will of our God and Father, [5] to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen.

• Be careful not to fall for Kingdom Now theology when listening to Christians who want to improve the world

• Scripture reminds us that our battle is not against the physical flesh and blood but against spiritual principalities, so look at the world events through that lens

• Do we believe what God has planned for this earth as outlined in Scripture, including His plan of salvation?

• There must be a literal understanding of the Bible

• Why would God want to trip-us-up by having riddles that most cannot solve?

• Look at God’s word and fulfillment of literal prophecy during Old Testament days, such as His first coming as an infant

• If we can allegorize eschatology (which comprises of 1/4 of the Bible) then what is stopping us from allegorizing the rest?

• The church is crumbling because attendees don’t believe the Bible anymore

• We either believe Scripture is His God-directed word and the Holy Spirit can illuminate its message or we don’t

• Is there hope? YES in Christ alone!

Titus 2:11-14 NIV

Isaiah 41:13 NIV

[13] For I am the Lord your God who takes hold of your right hand and says to you, Do not fear; I will help you.

Psalm 121:1-8 NIV

[1] I lift up my eyes to the mountains---where does my help come from? [2] My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth. [3] He will not let your foot slip---he who watches over you will not slumber; [4] indeed, he who watches over Israel will neither slumber nor sleep. [5] The Lord watches over you---the Lord is your shade at your right hand; [6] the sun will not harm you by day, nor the moon by night. [7] The Lord will keep you from all harm---he will watch over your life; [8] the Lord will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore.

** If His grace raised this poor, dirty worm from a dunghill and set it upon a throne with His princes, who shall have the glory--the worm or Jesus? Shall any of His due praise be given to the worm? God forbid!

As vile and base as I am--yet He lets me approach Him and converse with Him freely.

He condescends to admit me into fellowship with Him; and He opens His treasures and says, "All these are yours. I bought them for you with the price of My blood, but I give them to you as a free gift!" <R172>

** Based on the context and Paul's change of words from 1 Thess 4, we know that the sense of 1 Thess 5:10 is that when Jesus come for His church, He will take those who are alert spiritually as well as those who are asleep in their walk with Him as evidenced by their lack of watchfulness for His return or their care about the way they live.

This is incredibly good news as well as an amazing promise. Our inclusion in the rapture does not depend upon our behavior at the time Jesus' appears; it depends solely upon whether or not our sins are covered with the blood Jesus shed on our behalf.

1 John 5:10-12 spells out the only condition for your inclusion in the rapture. If you belong to Jesus, you are going up regardless of your behavior at the moment! If Jesus is not your Savior, your feet will remain earthbound.

This is our blessed assurance!

Please know I am not saying that our behavior does not matter. It absolutely does! What I am saying is that those who teach the doctrine of a partial rapture advance a doctrine that not only contradicts the heart of the Gospel, but Paul's specific promise in 1 Thess 5:10.

The New Testament teaches that all believers will give an account of their lives to Jesus (Rom. 14:12; 1 Cor. 3:10-15; 2 Cor. 5:10; Heb. 4:12-13). Faithful service will be rewarded (1 Cor. 15:58); saints who neglect their spiritual gifts and opportunities to serve the Lord with those provisions will suffer loss at the judgment seat of Christ, but they will not lose their salvation, nor will they miss out on the rapture.

So yes, our behavior matters; but our good deeds do not merit our salvation nor do they merit our rapid heavenward journey when Jesus appears to take us home. Those whom God justifies, He also glorifies (Rom. 8:30); this is an unbroken chain. Once God justifies us, it becomes an absolute certainty He will glorify us at the return of His Son. That is the promise of Romans 8!

You see, when Jesus gives us eternal life based on His work on the cross, it means we will never perish (John 10:27-29). The Lord forever seals our fate, eternity in paradise, the moment He brings us into His forever family.

Why do I emphasize these promises from 1 Thess 5:9-10? It's because so many churches err on one side of the other. They either ignore our blessed hope or they ignore our blessed assurance. Both represent grievous errors in these last days.

In 1 Thess 5:9-10, the apostle Paul assures us of two precious promises in regard to our eternal hope. Jesus is coming for us before the tribulation, and our inclusion in our trip to His Father's house in heaven depends solely on His blood shed on our behalf, not our behavior. <B26>

** Even along our pilgrim way, God walks with us and makes our hearts burn within us. These sweet foretastes of His love draw us on and whet our appetite for Heaven. A few more of these foretastes, and we shall get to the fountainhead and drink rivers of pleasure forevermore! <R172>

** In essence: when Christ died, we died. When Christ rose from the dead, we rose and were given the Holy Spirit! This is why death cannot hold us down any longer — we have an eternal hope through Christ our Lord!

Romans 8:11 NIV

[11] And if the Spirit of him who raised Jesus from the dead is living in you, he who raised Christ from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies because of his Spirit who lives in you.

1 Corinthians 15:54-55 NIV

[54] When the perishable has been clothed with the imperishable, and the mortal with immortality, then the saying that is written will come true: “Death has been swallowed up in victory.” [55] “Where, O death, is your victory? Where, O death, is your sting?”

Isaiah 63:1 NIV

[1] Who is this coming from Edom, from Bozrah, with his garments stained crimson? Who is this, robed in splendor, striding forward in the greatness of his strength? “It is I, proclaiming victory, mighty to save.”

Isaiah 25:8-9 NIV

[8] he will swallow up death forever. The Sovereign Lord will wipe away the tears from all faces; he will remove his people's disgrace from all the earth. The Lord has spoken. [9] In that day they will say, “Surely this is our God; we trusted in him, and he saved us. This is the Lord, we trusted in him; let us rejoice and be glad in his salvation.”

Isaiah 57:2 NIV

[2] Those who walk uprightly enter into peace; they find rest as they lie in death.

** Solomon sums it up this way: we need to keep in mind during times of prosperity and times of adversity that nothing is certain in this life; tomorrow is not guaranteed so put your hope in Christ alone <F60>

Ecclesiastes 7:14 NIV

[14] When times are good, be happy; but when times are bad, consider this: God has made the one as well as the other. Therefore, no one can discover anything about their future.

James 4:13-15 NIV

[13] Now listen, you who say, “Today or tomorrow we will go to this or that city, spend a year there, carry on business and make money.” [14] Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes. [15] Instead, you ought to say, “If it is the Lord's will, we will live and do this or that.”

** When shall I ascend to the eternal throne of blessedness, where no comforts are lacking?

When shall I be covered with the glorious robe of immortality, and shine in the brightness of my Redeemer's innocence?

When shall I behold the lovely face of my Lord and dwell in the courts of His holy temple, where all tears shall be wiped away from my eyes, all sorrows removed from my heart, and all sins and spots are done away?

Where I shall exchange the dross of this world, for true and durable riches!

Where, instead of these earthly riches which moth and rust corrupt--I shall enjoy the heavenly riches of perfect peace and good conscience, never to be lost!

Instead of these false and flattering honors, I shall enjoy everlasting glory, and be admitted into the fellowship of my Redeemer to reign with Him in His glorious kingdom!

Instead of vain and momentary pleasures, I shall be filled with fullness of joy and be ravished with those delights which neither eye has seen, nor ear heard, nor has it entered into the heart of man to conceive!

Instead of this dark and cloudy knowledge, I shall have my heart enlightened with the beams of the true light!

Instead of this feeble strength, I shall be endowed with the might of angels!

Instead of this transitory health, I shall enjoy a powerful and immortal vigor!

Instead of this fading beauty, I shall be adorned with the loveliness of Christ's spouse!

Instead of long life, I shall be crowned with life eternal! My heart and my strength fail me, but God is the strength of my heart, and my portion forever! <W2193>

Psalm 42:2 NIV

[2] My soul thirsts for God, for the living God. When can I go and meet with God?

** Here is good news for weary, heavy-hearted pilgrims from our homeland in Heaven. Do you have heartaches and troubles too numerous to count? It will do you good to receive some good news from home.

The Lord our God is still on His throne. Our Savior is still in Heaven, preparing a place for you, representing you, interceding for you.

There are many in Heaven just like you and me already. There is:

• a fallen David there,

• a doubting Thomas there,

• an angry Moses there,

• a feeble Philip there,

• an impetuous Peter there,

• and a righteous Lot there.

All are there by grace alone, through the merits of Christ's blood and righteousness. And, soon, the Lord Jesus Christ will come again to take you there! <F67>

John 14:1-3 NIV

** Jesus sustains no relation to His Church more expressive than this. From all eternity He betrothed her to Himself. He asked her at the hands of her Father, and the Father gave her to Him. He entered into a covenant that she should be His. The conditions of that covenant were great, but not too great for His love to undertake. They were that He should...

• assume her nature,

• discharge her legal obligations,

• endure her punishment,

• repair her ruin, and

• bring her to glory!

He undertook all, and He accomplished all--because He loved her!

The love of Jesus to His Church, is the love of the most tender husband. It is...

• exclusive,

• constant,

• affectionate,

• matchless,

• wonderful.

Jesus...

• sympathizes with her,

• nourishes her,

• provides for her,

• clothes her,

• watches over her, and

• indulges her with the most intimate and endearing communion.

The Lord Jesus will come in the clouds of Heaven, and this will be the occasion of His public wedding of His Church. Her present union to Him is secret and unknown--invisible to the world. But He will appear, openly and visibly to take her to Himself; and before His Father and the holy angels He will solemnize her eternal union. <W211>

Revelation 19:7 NIV

[7] Let us rejoice and be glad and give him glory! For the wedding of the Lamb has come, and his bride has made herself ready.

** When Christians die, their physical body sleeps in the grave while their soul is united with Christ; Christians earnestly debate whether Paul was speaking about receiving a resurrection body or an intermediate body worn until the time of resurrection? <R1795>

• In essence, it doesn’t ultimately matter because believers are assured that after death ‘whatever is mortal’ will be swallowed up by life

• When the rich man died, he was immediately in torment

• When Lazarus died he was immediately in the presence of Abraham

2 Corinthians 5:4-8 NIV

[4] For while we are in this tent, we groan and are burdened, because we do not wish to be unclothed but to be clothed instead with our heavenly dwelling, so that what is mortal may be swallowed up by life. [5] Now the one who has fashioned us for this very purpose is God, who has given us the Spirit as a deposit, guaranteeing what is to come. [6] Therefore we are always confident and know that as long as we are at home in the body we are away from the Lord. [7] For we live by faith, not by sight. [8] We are confident, I say, and would prefer to be away from the body and at home with the Lord.

Luke 16:22-24 NIV

[22] “The time came when the beggar died and the angels carried him to Abraham's side. The rich man also died and was buried. [23] In Hades, where he was in torment, he looked up and saw Abraham far away, with Lazarus by his side. [24] So he called to him, 'Father Abraham, have pity on me and send Lazarus to dip the tip of his finger in water and cool my tongue, because I am in agony in this fire.'

1 Corinthians 15:50 NIV

[50] I declare to you, brothers and sisters, that flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God, nor does the perishable inherit the imperishable.

Luke 23:39-43 NIV

[39] One of the criminals who hung there hurled insults at him: “Aren't you the Messiah? Save yourself and us!” [40] But the other criminal rebuked him. “Don't you fear God,” he said, “since you are under the same sentence? [41] We are punished justly, for we are getting what our deeds deserve. But this man has done nothing wrong.” [42] Then he said, “Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom. ” [43] Jesus answered him, “Truly I tell you, TODAY you will be with me in paradise.”

1 Thessalonians 4:13-17 NIV

1 Corinthians 15:44,51-54 NIV

[44] it is sown a natural body, it is raised a spiritual body. If there is a natural body, there is also a spiritual body. [51] Listen, I tell you a mystery: We will not all sleep, but we will all be changed--- [52] in a flash, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet. For the trumpet will sound, the dead will be raised imperishable, and we will be changed. [53] For the perishable must clothe itself with the imperishable, and the mortal with immortality. [54] When the perishable has been clothed with the imperishable, and the mortal with immortality, then the saying that is written will come true: “Death has been swallowed up in victory.”

** The Bible tells us that one day, the spirit of man will be reunited with a glorified raised physical body for those raised belonging to Christ at His appearing. It has and will come in stages...

A. Those who are already dead; Jesus the first fruits of those who are born of the dead

B. Then those who are raised to new life, at the catching away of the church at the appearing of our Lord; the Bible calls it by definition “harpazo" which literally means be "taken by force", while some call it the rapture

C. The next stage is those who are raised to life at the end of the Tribulation, who are the Tribulation saints, and died in Christ as martyrs; this is the first resurrection according to Rev 20:5-6 <T201>

Revelation 20:4-6 NIV

[4] I saw thrones on which were seated those who had been given authority to judge. And I saw the souls of those who had been beheaded because of their testimony about Jesus and because of the word of God. They had not worshiped the beast or its image and had not received its mark on their foreheads or their hands. They came to life and reigned with Christ a thousand years. [5] (The rest of the dead did not come to life until the thousand years were ended.) This is the first resurrection. [6] Blessed and holy are those who share in the first resurrection. The second death has no power over them, but they will be priests of God and of Christ and will reign with him for a thousand years.

** David realized the need for one to have a conditional committed relationship with the Lord in order for God to act on their behalf

2 Samuel 23:2-5 NIV

[2] “The Spirit of the Lord spoke through me; his word was on my tongue. [3] The God of Israel spoke, the Rock of Israel said to me: ‘When one rules over people in righteousness, when he rules in the fear of God, [4] he is like the light of morning at sunrise on a cloudless morning, like the brightness after rain that brings grass from the earth.’ [5] “If my house were not right with God, surely he would not have made with me an everlasting covenant, arranged and secured in every part; surely he would not bring to fruition my salvation and grant me my every desire.

** Our days on earth are limited and pass by quickly according to God’s plan; as New Testament followers, we realize we are not ‘perishable’ because we believe and follow God’s Word with eternal assurance!

Psalm 102:3 NIV

[3] For my days vanish like smoke; my bones burn like glowing embers.

Psalm 102:23 NIV

[23] In the course of my life he broke my strength; he cut short my days.

Psalm 103:15-16 NIV

[15] The life of mortals is like grass, they flourish like a flower of the field; [16] the wind blows over it and it is gone, and its place remembers it no more.

1 Peter 1:23-25 NIV

[23] For you have been born again, not of perishable seed, but of imperishable, through the living and enduring word of God. [24] For, “All people are like grass, and all their glory is like the flowers of the field; the grass withers and the flowers fall, [25] but the word of the Lord endures forever.” And this is the word that was preached to you.

** Believers in Christ do not need to be anxious about anything because our Savior promises to be an advocate for us at all times, even into eternity

• An advocate is a person who comes to a person's aid or pleads their case to a judge, offering support, strength, and counsel when needed <G72>

• God sends every believer the Advocate Holy Spirit to help while living their earthly life

• Jesus will then stand as an Advocate between those who have repentant hearts and the Righteous Judge, His Father

• Jesus can be the believer's Advocate because:

1. He knows whether their heart is genuinely in love with God, and

2. He has paid their sin debt in full when He died on the cross

• Believers in Christ will, therefore, receive consistent help and avoid eternal condemnation

John 14:15-16 NIV

[15] “If you love me, keep my commands. [16] And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another advocate to help you and be with you forever---

Matthew 24:35 NIV

[35] Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will never pass away.

Revelation 3:10 NIV

[10] Since you have kept my command to endure patiently, I will also keep you from the hour of trial that is going to come on the whole world to test the inhabitants of the earth.

Romans 8:1 NIV

[1] Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus,

** David praises God for all His benefits and delivering us from the pit, providing and renewing us with what is good

Psalm 103:2-5 NIV

[2] Praise the Lord, my soul, and forget not all his benefits--- [3] who forgives all your sins and heals all your diseases, [4] who redeems your life from the pit and crowns you with love and compassion, [5] who satisfies your desires with good things so that your youth is renewed like the eagle's.

** When people aren’t aware of God’s hope and promise, they try to make the most out of their life here in this fallen world and comfort themselves with watered-down messages on how “everything is going to be great here” and how “it all depends on how they look at life”.

Life-coaching is a flourishing business. Somewhere down the road, we are forgetting that we’re no longer citizens of this world and that heaven is our home. We are not of this world anymore. We need to stop bringing heaven DOWN HERE and start preparing for our homecoming to be with Jesus UP THERE. <T203>

For this to happen, He must come and get us, just as He promised:

John 14:2-3 NIV

We need to be eagerly waiting for this!

Philippians 3:20-21 NIV

Hebrews 9:27-28 NIV

[27] Just as people are destined to die once, and after that to face judgment, [28] so Christ was sacrificed once to take away the sins of many; and he will appear a second time, not to bear sin, but to bring salvation to those who are waiting for him.

The first part of this passage is kind of sad…death and judgment? But for us, death isn't an issue anymore. For us, the Bema seat of Christ is about reward and not punishment. Unfortunately, the latter part of this passage is often ignored. Christ will come back and appear to His people only. Not to die for our sins again, but for salvation. Which salvation? The salvation of our body from this evil world, as it’s written:

Romans 8:22-25 NIV

[22] We know that the whole creation has been groaning as in the pains of childbirth right up to the present time. [23] Not only so, but we ourselves, who have the firstfruits of the Spirit, groan inwardly as we wait eagerly for our adoption to sonship, the redemption of our bodies. [24] For in this hope we were saved. But hope that is seen is no hope at all. Who hopes for what they already have? [25] But if we hope for what we do not yet have, we wait for it patiently.

** “Nevertheless"--as if notwithstanding all the foolishness and ignorance that David had just been confessing to God--not one atom the less was it true and certain that David was saved and accepted, and that the blessing of being constantly in God's presence was undoubtedly his. Fully conscious of his own lost estate and of the deceitfulness and vileness of his nature--yet by a glorious outburst of faith, he sings, "Nevertheless I am continually with You!"

Believer, endeavor in like spirit to say, "Nevertheless, since I belong to Christ, I am continually with God!"

I am continually upon His mind--He is always thinking of me for my good.

I am continually before His eye--the eye of the Lord never sleeps but is perpetually watching over my welfare.

I am continually in His hand--so that none will be able to pluck me out from it.

I am continually on His heart--worn there as a memorial, even as the high priest bore the names of the twelve tribes upon His heart forever.

"You always think of me, O God. You are always making providence work for my good. You have set me as a signet upon Your arm. Your love is as strong as death--many waters cannot quench it, neither can the floods drown it. You see me in Christ, and though in myself I am despised--You behold me as wearing Christ's garments of salvation and washed in His blood; and thus I stand accepted in Your presence. I am thus continually in Your favor. I am continually with You!" <S185>

Psalm 73:21-23 NKJV

[21] Thus my heart was grieved, And I was vexed in my mind. [22] I was so foolish and ignorant; I was like a beast before You. [23] Nevertheless I am continually with You; You hold me by my right hand.

** It doesn't matter how old or how many troubles we've experienced in our youth, followers of Christ can hold onto a wonderful HOPE – from a faith that saw us through experiences in the past and will see us through the present and future!

• Despite the physical hindrances associated with aging, old age can be a time of blessing

• Polls have shown that no segment of the population is as content as those over 60

• No doubt, many older citizens find comfort and hope reviewing their experiences of God’s grace and reflecting on all that God has taught them over the years <R1795>

Psalm 71:20-21 NIV

[20] Though you have made me see troubles, many and bitter, you will restore my life again; from the depths of the earth you will again bring me up. [21] You will increase my honor and comfort me once more.

Psalm 71:12-14 NIV

[12] Do not be far from me, my God; come quickly, God, to help me. [13] May my accusers perish in shame; may those who want to harm me be covered with scorn and disgrace. [14] As for me, I will always have hope; I will praise you more and more.

** Life is but a short breath until death

Psalm 89:47-48 NIV

[47] Remember how fleeting is my life. For what futility you have created all humanity! [48] Who can live and not see death, or who can escape the power of the grave?

** The person singing this song recognizes where the Lord lives and longs to be there

Psalm 84:1-3 NIV

[1] How lovely is your dwelling place, Lord Almighty! [2] My soul yearns, even faints, for the courts of the Lord; my heart and my flesh cry out for the living God. [3] Even the sparrow has found a home, and the swallow a nest for herself, where she may have her young---a place near your altar, Lord Almighty, my King and my God.

** Blessed are those who find their strength in the Lord for they will be upheld time and again

Psalm 84:5-7 NIV

[5] Blessed are those whose strength is in you, whose hearts are set on pilgrimage. [6] As they pass through the Valley of Baka, they make it a place of springs; the autumn rains also cover it with pools. [7] They go from strength to strength, till each appears before God in Zion.

** No good thing does God withhold from those who trust and believe in Him

Psalm 84:11-12 NIV

[11] For the Lord God is a sun and shield; the Lord bestows favor and honor; no good thing does he withhold from those whose walk is blameless. [12] Lord Almighty, blessed is the one who trusts in you.

1 John 3:21-22 NIV

[21] Dear friends, if our hearts do not condemn us, we have confidence before God [22] and receive from him anything we ask, because we keep his commands and do what pleases him.

** Nothing in this world is more beautiful by J.R. Miller

A ship is made to go in the water, and no matter how deep the sea nor how wild the tempest--all goes well as long as the water does not get into the ship. The problem of managing a ship, is not to keep the ship out of the water--but to keep the water out of the ship!

In this sinful world, we cannot avoid all cares and trials and temptations. The goal of of true Christian living is to keep these cares and trials and temptations from getting into our souls. Some people let all their frets and worries at once into their hearts--and they soon live out their lives in sourness, irritability, and discontent. They become thus miserable themselves--and they make all around them miserable. They cast, not cooling, healthful, refreshing shade on others--but melancholy, darksome, chilling shadows.

Learn to keep your cares in your hands--and out of your hearts. Nothing in this world is more beautiful than a Christian life with many trials and cares--yet remaining ever peaceful and joyous amid them all. This is the real goal of noble Christian living.

** Those who have God's Holy Spirit will be removed at the precise time that God pulls back from holding evil at bay and Satan will have full sway over the destiny of mankind to destroy them and those who worship the Beast. Jesus promised He would never leave us Comfortless, or leave us forever.

The Antichrist, will overcome the saints of the Tribulation, as God's Holy Spirit has been pulled back. The AC cannot overcome the Church, as he can't overcome God, so it is another point for confirmation of the Pre-Tribulation Rapture of the Church. <T201>

** David outlines how God led the Israelites through the desert and provided for their every need and, still, the people rebelled against Him; the specific puzzle in Israel’s history is the nation’s rebellious spirit in spite of God’s grace <M130>

Psalm 78:11-16 NIV

[11] They forgot what [God] had done, the wonders he had shown them. [12] He did miracles in the sight of their ancestors in the land of Egypt, in the region of Zoan. [13] He divided the sea and led them through; he made the water stand up like a wall. [14] He guided them with the cloud by day and with light from the fire all night. [15] He split the rocks in the wilderness and gave them water as abundant as the seas; [16] he brought streams out of a rocky crag and made water flow down like rivers.

Psalm 78:17-20 NIV

[17] But they continued to sin against him, rebelling in the wilderness against the Most High. [18] They willfully put God to the test by demanding the food they craved. [19] They spoke against God; they said, “Can God really spread a table in the wilderness? [20] True, he struck the rock, and water gushed out, streams flowed abundantly, but can he also give us bread? Can he supply meat for his people?”

Psalm 78:40-51 NIV

[40] How often they rebelled against him in the wilderness and grieved him in the wasteland! [41] Again and again they put God to the test; they vexed the Holy One of Israel. [42] They did not remember his power---the day he redeemed them from the oppressor, [43] the day he displayed his signs in Egypt, his wonders in the region of Zoan. [44] He turned their river into blood; they could not drink from their streams. [45] He sent swarms of flies that devoured them, and frogs that devastated them. [46] He gave their crops to the grasshopper, their produce to the locust. [47] He destroyed their vines with hail and their sycamore-figs with sleet. [48] He gave over their cattle to the hail, their livestock to bolts of lightning. [49] He unleashed against them his hot anger, his wrath, indignation and hostility---a band of destroying angels. [50] He prepared a path for his anger; he did not spare them from death but gave them over to the plague. [51] He struck down all the firstborn of Egypt, the firstfruits of manhood in the tents of Ham.

Exodus 14:15-16 NIV

[15] Then the Lord said to Moses, “Why are you crying out to me? Tell the Israelites to move on. [16] Raise your staff and stretch out your hand over the sea to divide the water so that the Israelites can go through the sea on dry ground.

Exodus 17:6 NIV

[6] I will stand there before you by the rock at Horeb. Strike the rock, and water will come out of it for the people to drink.” So Moses did this in the sight of the elders of Israel.

Numbers 20:9-11 NIV

[9] So Moses took the staff from the Lord's presence, just as he commanded him. [10] He and Aaron gathered the assembly together in front of the rock and Moses said to them, “Listen, you rebels, must we bring you water out of this rock?” [11] Then Moses raised his arm and struck the rock twice with his staff. Water gushed out, and the community and their livestock drank.

** While living in our earthly bodies is limited and frustrating, God promises us a new body and life eternal

2 Corinthians 5:2-5 NIV

[2] Meanwhile we groan, longing to be clothed instead with our heavenly dwelling, [3] because when we are clothed, we will not be found naked. [4] For while we are in this tent, we groan and are burdened, because we do not wish to be unclothed but to be clothed instead with our heavenly dwelling, so that what is mortal may be swallowed up by life. [5] Now the one who has fashioned us for this very purpose is God, who has given us the Spirit as a deposit, guaranteeing what is to come.

** Those who are ‘at home’ in their mortal body should be concerned they have fallen away from the Lord

2 Corinthians 5:6 NIV

[6] Therefore we are always confident and know that as long as we are at home in the body we are away from the Lord.

Romans 12:1-2 NIV

[1] Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God---this is your true and proper worship. [2] Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is---his good, pleasing and perfect will.

** Paul talks of eternal life for believers after an earthly existence, using references like “resurrection of the dead”; if this life were all there is, then “we are to be pitied” and Paul asks why are people coming to Christ if there is no resurrection or life after death?

1 Corinthians 15:19 NIV

[19] If only for this life we have hope in Christ, we are of all people most to be pitied.

1 Corinthians 15:21-22 NIV

[21] For since death came through a man, the resurrection of the dead comes also through a man. [22] For as in Adam all die, so in Christ all will be made alive.

** God can welcome home any believer He wants at any time

• First heaven = earth

• Second heaven = interplanetary

• Third heaven = with God

2 Corinthians 12:2-4 NIV

[2] I know a man in Christ who fourteen years ago was caught up to the third heaven. Whether it was in the body or out of the body I do not know---God knows. [3] And I know that this man---whether in the body or apart from the body I do not know, but God knows--- [4] was caught up to paradise and heard inexpressible things, things that no one is permitted to tell.

Psalm 123:1 NIV

[1] I lift up my eyes to you, to you who sit enthroned in heaven.

** Our resurrection body will be given to us based on whether we believed God and followed His commands, hence the first and second resurrections

First resurrection = believers who share in the reign with Christ for 1000 years

Second resurrection = resurrection of the unconverted

1 Corinthians 15:35,38 NIV

[35] But someone will ask, “How are the dead raised? With what kind of body will they come?” [38] But God gives it a body as he has determined, and to each kind of seed he gives its own body.

1 Corinthians 15:40,42-44 NIV

1 Corinthians 15:47-49 NIV

John 5:28-29 NIV

** The Israelites were to voice recognition that God brought them out of Egypt and established a Promised Land for them; they declare their willingness to obey the Lord their God

The confession made in connection with their offering consisted of a promise of obedience and a prayer for God's blessing; in this manner, the Israelites confessed their continual dependence on God with the hope of blessing in return <M130>

Deuteronomy 26:2-3 NIV

[2] take some of the firstfruits of all that you produce from the soil of the land the Lord your God is giving you and put them in a basket. Then go to the place the Lord your God will choose as a dwelling for his Name [3] and say to the priest in office at the time, “I declare today to the Lord your God that I have come to the land the Lord swore to our ancestors to give us.”

Deuteronomy 26:5-10 NIV

[5] Then you shall declare before the Lord your God: “My father was a wandering Aramean, and he went down into Egypt with a few people and lived there and became a great nation, powerful and numerous. [6] But the Egyptians mistreated us and made us suffer, subjecting us to harsh labor. [7] Then we cried out to the Lord, the God of our ancestors, and the Lord heard our voice and saw our misery, toil and oppression. [8] So the Lord brought us out of Egypt with a mighty hand and an outstretched arm, with great terror and with signs and wonders. [9] He brought us to this place and gave us this land, a land flowing with milk and honey; [10] and now I bring the firstfruits of the soil that you, Lord, have given me. ” Place the basket before the Lord your God and bow down before him.

Deuteronomy 26:17 NIV

[17] You have declared this day that the Lord is your God and that you will walk in obedience to him, that you will keep his decrees, commands and laws---that you will listen to him.

** Our worship is to include thanking God for His acts of salvation and protection and then sharing this with others

Psalm 71:22-24 NIV

[22] I will praise you with the harp for your faithfulness, my God; I will sing praise to you with the lyre, Holy One of Israel. [23] My lips will shout for joy when I sing praise to you---I whom you have delivered. [24] My tongue will tell of your righteous acts all day long, for those who wanted to harm me have been put to shame and confusion.

Psalm 71:8 NIV

[8] My mouth is filled with your praise, declaring your splendor all day long.

** God provides those who fear Him with a spiritual defense against His wrath that no human defense can match

Psalm 60:4 NIV

[4] But for those who fear you, you have raised a banner to be unfurled against the bow.

Psalm 60:9-12 NIV

[9] Who will bring me to the fortified city? Who will lead me to Edom? [10] Is it not you, God, you who have now rejected us and no longer go out with our armies? [11] Give us aid against the enemy, for human help is worthless. [12] With God we will gain the victory, and he will trample down our enemies.

** The Lord loves His people and can turn a curse into a blessing

Deuteronomy 23:5 NIV

[5] However, the Lord your God would not listen to Balaam but turned the curse into a blessing for you, because the Lord your God loves you.

** Is it a small thing in your eyes to be loved by God – to be the son, the spouse, the beloved, the delight of the King of glory?

Christian, think about this! You will be eternally embraced in the arms of the love which was from everlasting and will extend to everlasting – in the love which brought the Son of God's love from:

• Heaven to earth

• Earth to the cross

• Cross to the grave

• Grave to glory

That love which was weary, hungry, tempted, scorned, scourged, buffeted, spat upon, crucified, pierced – which fasted, prayed, healed, wept, sweated, bled, died. That love will eternally embrace you! <B302>

Ephesians 5:2 NIV

[2] and walk in the way of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.

** We do not have to fear death for Christ will break its final hold in the last days; we have hope in the future and can stand firm!

1 Corinthians 15:55-57 NIV

[55] “Where, O death, is your victory? Where, O death, is your sting?” [56] The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law. [57] But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.

1 Corinthians 15:58 NIV

[58] Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.

** The Year of Jubilee involved freeing people from indebtedness (23-38) and bondage of all sorts (39-55); in the end, the Israelites were God's servants, not each other's; could the Year of Jubilee be similar to the final freedom followers of Christ experience in the end?

Leviticus 25:23-28 NIV

[23] “ ‘The land must not be sold permanently, because the land is mine and you reside in my land as foreigners and strangers. [24] Throughout the land that you hold as a possession, you must provide for the redemption of the land. [25] “ ‘If one of your fellow Israelites becomes poor and sells some of their property, their nearest relative is to come and redeem what they have sold. [26] If, however, there is no one to redeem it for them but later on they prosper and acquire sufficient means to redeem it themselves, [27] they are to determine the value for the years since they sold it and refund the balance to the one to whom they sold it; they can then go back to their own property. [28] But if they do not acquire the means to repay, what was sold will remain in the possession of the buyer until the Year of Jubilee. It will be returned in the Jubilee, and they can then go back to their property.

Leviticus 25:39-43 NIV

[39] “ ‘If any of your fellow Israelites become poor and sell themselves to you, do not make them work as slaves. [40] They are to be treated as hired workers or temporary residents among you; they are to work for you until the Year of Jubilee. [41] Then they and their children are to be released, and they will go back to their own clans and to the property of their ancestors. [42] Because the Israelites are my servants, whom I brought out of Egypt, they must not be sold as slaves. [43] Do not rule over them ruthlessly, but fear your God.

Leviticus 25:54-55 NIV

[54] “ ‘Even if someone is not redeemed in any of these ways, they and their children are to be released in the Year of Jubilee, [55] for the Israelites belong to me as servants. They are my servants, whom I brought out of Egypt. I am the Lord your God.

** David is candid about his fear and shares his hope in God alone which are comforting words considering mortal man’s insanity in today’s end time; those who put their trust in God will alleviate their fear

Psalm 56:3-4 NIV

[3] When I am afraid, I put my trust in you. [4] In God, whose word I praise---in God I trust and am not afraid. What can mere mortals do to me?

Psalm 56:11 NIV

[11] in God I trust and am not afraid. What can man do to me?

Psalm 56:11-13 NIV

[11] in God I trust and am not afraid. What can man do to me? [12] I am under vows to you, my God; I will present my thank offerings to you. [13] For you have delivered me from death and my feet from stumbling, that I may walk before God in the light of life.

Psalm 116:8-9,12-14 NIV

[8] For you, Lord, have delivered me from death, my eyes from tears, my feet from stumbling, [9] that I may walk before the Lord in the land of the living. [12] What shall I return to the Lord for all his goodness to me? [13] I will lift up the cup of salvation and call on the name of the Lord. [14] I will fulfill my vows to the Lord in the presence of all his people.

Psalm 2:1-6 NIV

Psalm 57:1-3 NIV

[1] Have mercy on me, my God, have mercy on me, for in you I take refuge. I will take refuge in the shadow of your wings until the disaster has passed. [2] I cry out to God Most High, to God, who vindicates me. [3] He sends from heaven and saves me, rebuking those who hotly pursue me---God sends forth his love and his faithfulness.

** In the midst of difficulty we should follow David’s example of focusing on the God of the universe and the glory due His name!

Psalm 57:5 NIV

[5] Be exalted, O God, above the heavens; let your glory be over all the earth.

Psalm 57:7-11 NIV

[7] My heart, O God, is steadfast, my heart is steadfast; I will sing and make music. [8] Awake, my soul! Awake, harp and lyre! I will awaken the dawn. [9] I will praise you, Lord, among the nations; I will sing of you among the peoples. [10] For great is your love, reaching to the heavens; your faithfulness reaches to the skies. [11] Be exalted, O God, above the heavens; let your glory be over all the earth.

Psalm 62:1-2 NIV

[1] Truly my soul finds rest in God; my salvation comes from him. [2] Truly he is my rock and my salvation; he is my fortress, I will never be shaken.

God will use trouble to prepare us for the triumph God has in store for us, like he did with David for 10 years and Joseph for over 17 years!

Ephesians 2:10 NIV

[10] For we are God's handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.

** Our suffering in this life is momentary compared to the joy awaiting us when we will spend eternity with God our Father

2 Corinthians 4:16-18 NIV

** God desires to bless us just as He blessed His people taking them to the Promised Land

Deuteronomy 8:7-9 NIV

[7] For the Lord your God is bringing you into a good land---a land with brooks, streams, and deep springs gushing out into the valleys and hills; [8] a land with wheat and barley, vines and fig trees, pomegranates, olive oil and honey; [9] a land where bread will not be scarce and you will lack nothing; a land where the rocks are iron and you can dig copper out of the hills.

** The end will come at the end of the millennium (when Revelation 21-22 begins) and Christ destroys all enemies, including death; Christ initially broke Satan’s hold over death at the cross <M130>

1 Corinthians 15:24-26 NIV

Hebrews 2:14 NIV

[14] Since the children have flesh and blood, he too shared in their humanity so that by his death he might break the power of him who holds the power of death---that is, the devil---

Revelation 20:1-3,7-10 NIV

[1] And I saw an angel coming down out of heaven, having the key to the Abyss and holding in his hand a great chain. [2] He seized the dragon, that ancient serpent, who is the devil, or Satan, and bound him for a thousand years. [3] He threw him into the Abyss, and locked and sealed it over him, to keep him from deceiving the nations anymore until the thousand years were ended. After that, he must be set free for a short time. [7] When the thousand years are over, Satan will be released from his prison [8] and will go out to deceive the nations in the four corners of the earth---Gog and Magog---and to gather them for battle. In number they are like the sand on the seashore. [9] They marched across the breadth of the earth and surrounded the camp of God's people, the city he loves. But fire came down from heaven and devoured them. [10] And the devil, who deceived them, was thrown into the lake of burning sulfur, where the beast and the false prophet had been thrown. They will be tormented day and night for ever and ever.

1 Corinthians 15:50-54 NIV

** At death, the body lies in repose in the grave awaiting the resurrection of the last day, but the soul goes to be at home with the Lord

• Those who abide by the prevalent ‘Doctrine of Intermediate State’ believe Christians are with Jesus immediately when they die and not some state of sleep, waiting for the return of Christ (2 Cor 5:5-8) <S1991>

• Paradise (third heaven) exists for those who die and immediately go to be with God in Heaven with an intermediate body; this is confirmed when Paul wrote about Jesus’ ascension in the book of Ephesians

2 Corinthians 5:6-8 NIV

Therefore we are always confident and know that as long as we are at home in the body we are away from the Lord. [7] For we live by faith, not by sight. [8] We are confident, I say, and would prefer to be away from the body and at home with the Lord.

Luke 16:19-31 NIV

[19] “There was a rich man who was dressed in purple and fine linen and lived in luxury every day. [20] At his gate was laid a beggar named Lazarus, covered with sores [21] and longing to eat what fell from the rich man's table. Even the dogs came and licked his sores. [22] “The time came when the beggar died and the angels carried him to Abraham's side. The rich man also died and was buried. [23] In Hades, where he was in torment, he looked up and saw Abraham far away, with Lazarus by his side. [24] So he called to him, 'Father Abraham, have pity on me and send Lazarus to dip the tip of his finger in water and cool my tongue, because I am in agony in this fire.' [25] “But Abraham replied, 'Son, remember that in your lifetime you received your good things, while Lazarus received bad things, but now he is comforted here and you are in agony. [26] And besides all this, between us and you a great chasm has been set in place, so that those who want to go from here to you cannot, nor can anyone cross over from there to us.' [27] “He answered, 'Then I beg you, father, send Lazarus to my family, [28] for I have five brothers. Let him warn them, so that they will not also come to this place of torment.' [29] “Abraham replied, 'They have Moses and the Prophets; let them listen to them.' [30] “ 'No, father Abraham,' he said, 'but if someone from the dead goes to them, they will repent.' [31] “He said to him, 'If they do not listen to Moses and the Prophets, they will not be convinced even if someone rises from the dead.' ”

Revelation 20:13-14 NIV

[13] The sea gave up the dead that were in it, and death and Hades gave up the dead that were in them, and each person was judged according to what they had done. [14] Then death and Hades were thrown into the lake of fire. The lake of fire is the second death.

Ephesians 4:8-10 NIV

[8] This is why it says: “When he ascended on high, he took many captives and gave gifts to his people.” [9] (What does “he ascended” mean except that he also descended to the lower, earthly regions ? [10] He who descended is the very one who ascended higher than all the heavens, in order to fill the whole universe.)

2 Corinthians 12:2-4 NIV

John 14:3 NIV

[3] And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am.

• Those who abide by the theory of ‘Soul Sleep’ believe Christians fall into an unconscious sleep-like state until the future resurrection

1 Thessalonians 4:15-17 NIV

According to the Lord’s word, we tell you that we who are still alive, who are left until the coming of the Lord, will certainly not precede those who have fallen asleep. [16] For the Lord himself will come down from heaven, with a loud command, with the voice of the archangel and with the trumpet call of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first. [17] After that, we who are still alive and are left will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And so we will be with the Lord forever.

After resurrection and eternal destination:

• Believers experience a provisional sense the rewards that await them in heaven, while unbelievers experience a taste of their eternal torment in hell <G72>

• Those who previously died will be joined with permanent bodies (from the grave) when Christ comes again at the Day of Resurrection

• Heaven is where Jesus resides — absent from the body and always with the Lord <J103>

• Hades, at time of death, is a temporary place of torment until Christ comes again at the Judgment of the Great White Throne and inhabitants of Hades are passed into the Lake of Fire, as described in the book of Revelation

** The New Testament quotes Psa 45:6-7 making it clear this psalm is to transport us from earthly to heavenly celebration <R1795>

• The author of Hebrews cites the royal imagery and language of Psalm 45 to Jesus, emphasizing his divine nature and position as the ultimate ruler

• The citation is used to show that Jesus is not just a human king or a created being, but God himself, with an eternal throne and a righteous kingdom <W2201>

Psalm 45:6-7 NIV

[6] Your throne, O God, will last for ever and ever; a scepter of justice will be the scepter of your kingdom. [7] You love righteousness and hate wickedness; therefore God, your God, has set you above your companions by anointing you with the oil of joy.

Hebrews 1:8-9 NIV

[8] But about the Son he says, “Your throne, O God, will last for ever and ever; a scepter of justice will be the scepter of your kingdom. [9] You have loved righteousness and hated wickedness; therefore God, your God, has set you above your companions by anointing you with the oil of joy.”

** Followers of Christ realize that Christ took on our punishment and died for us when we were absolutely helpless

God justifies the ungodly who have faith

Romans 5:6-8 NIV

[6] You see, at just the right time, when we were still powerless, Christ died for the ungodly. [7] Very rarely will anyone die for a righteous person, though for a good person someone might possibly dare to die. [8] But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.

Mark 2:15-17 NIV

[15] While Jesus was having dinner at Levi's house, many tax collectors and sinners were eating with him and his disciples, for there were many who followed him. [16] When the teachers of the law who were Pharisees saw him eating with the sinners and tax collectors, they asked his disciples: “Why does he eat with tax collectors and sinners?” [17] On hearing this, Jesus said to them, “It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick. I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners.”

** Our goal as Christians should be pleasing God while anticipating future reward for our efforts

2 Corinthians 5:9-10 NIV

[9] So we make it our goal to please him, whether we are at home in the body or away from it. [10] For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, so that each of us may receive what is due us for the things done while in the body, whether good or bad.

** Peter must have been encouraged to learn that he would follow Jesus in the future; Jesus was not saying goodbye forever

John 13:36 NIV

[36] Simon Peter asked him, “Lord, where are you going?” Jesus replied, “Where I am going, you cannot follow now, but you will follow later.”

** Jesus promises to return 'in a little while' when genuine believer's grief will turn to joy!

John 16:17 NIV

[17] At this, some of his disciples said to one another, “What does he mean by saying, ‘In a little while you will see me no more, and then after a little while you will see me,’ and ‘Because I am going to the Father’?”

John 16:19-20 NIV

[19] Jesus saw that they wanted to ask him about this, so he said to them, “Are you asking one another what I meant when I said, ‘In a little while you will see me no more, and then after a little while you will see me’? [20] Very truly I tell you, you will weep and mourn while the world rejoices. You will grieve, but your grief will turn to joy.

** Man, in our human condition, will die one day and see decay while Jesus will never see decay; the hope that we too can be eternal should increase our zeal to spread the gospel

Acts 13:35-37 NIV

[35] So it is also stated elsewhere: “ ‘You will not let your holy one see decay.’ [36] “Now when David had served God’s purpose in his own generation, he fell asleep; he was buried with his ancestors and his body decayed. [37] But the one whom God raised from the dead did not see decay.

Acts 20:23-24 NIV

[23] I only know that in every city the Holy Spirit warns me that prison and hardships are facing me. [24] However, I consider my life worth nothing to me; my only aim is to finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me---the task of testifying to the good news of God’s grace.

** Jesus reveals there is an eternal existence after death where He IS the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob (using present not past tense)

Luke 20:37-38 NIV

[37] But in the account of the burning bush, even Moses showed that the dead rise, for he calls the Lord ‘the God of Abraham, and the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob.’ [38] He is not the God of the dead, but of the living, for to him all are alive.”

** If variations of theology as followed today — such as Liberation Theology, Replacement Theology. Social Gospel, Prosperity Gospel, etc — are not based on the Saving Gospel as outlined by Paul in the New Testament, then all efforts toward their ends are in vain; we cannot recreate God’s Salvation Plan, adding or taking away from what is already offered

1 Corinthians 15:1-2 NIV

[1] Now, brothers and sisters, I want to remind you of the gospel I preached to you, which you received and on which you have taken your stand. [2] By this gospel you are saved, if you hold firmly to the word I preached to you. Otherwise, you have believed in vain.”

** Jesus provides a way for everyone to receive salvation and eternal life

John 6:40 NIV

[40] For my Father’s will is that everyone who looks to the Son and believes in him shall have eternal life, and I will raise them up at the last day.”

** Jesus' death enables us to have purpose and live for eternal hope, we must be willing to give our lives to Christ, sacrifice to His will and die to the things of this world

John 12:23-24 NIV

[23] Jesus replied, “The hour has come for the Son of Man to be glorified. [24] Very truly I tell you, unless a kernel of wheat falls to the ground and dies, it remains only a single seed. But if it dies, it produces many seeds.

John 12:25-26 NIV

[25] Anyone who loves their life will lose it, while anyone who hates their life in this world will keep it for eternal life. [26] Whoever serves me must follow me; and where I am, my servant also will be. My Father will honor the one who serves me.

** The heart of God's purpose is eternal life and Jesus will continue to give eternal life until He returns; Jesus raised the dead both physically and spiritually while He was on earth, and the dead will hear Jesus' voice upon His return at the Second Coming

John 5:24 NIV

[24] “Very truly I tell you, whoever hears my word and believes him who sent me has eternal life and will not be judged but has crossed over from death to life.

John 5:25,28-29 NIV

[25] Very truly I tell you, a time is coming and has now come when the dead will hear the voice of the Son of God and those who hear will live. [28] “Do not be amazed at this, for a time is coming when all who are in their graves will hear his voice [29] and come out---those who have done what is good will rise to live, and those who have done what is evil will rise to be condemned.

** Jesus shows us that His salvation message is meant for everyone

John 4:39-41 NIV

[39] Many of the Samaritans from that town believed in him because of the woman’s testimony, “He told me everything I ever did.” [40] So when the Samaritans came to him, they urged him to stay with them, and he stayed two days. [41] And because of his words many more became believers.

Acts 2:21 NIV

[21] And everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.’

** Do not give to others expecting to be repaid, but allow God to reward you in eternity

Luke 14:12-14 NIV

[12] Then Jesus said to his host, “When you give a luncheon or dinner, do not invite your friends, your brothers or sisters, your relatives, or your rich neighbors; if you do, they may invite you back and so you will be repaid. [13] But when you give a banquet, invite the poor, the crippled, the lame, the blind, [14] and you will be blessed. Although they cannot repay you, you will be repaid at the resurrection of the righteous.”

** We are not to mourn like the world but have our hope in the resurrected Christ who will resurrect His children who die

A question that may surface: what happens to believers when they die? Certainly, Paul uses sleep to refer to their state, but does this mean that believers experience (for lack of a better word) an unconscious sleep-like state until the future resurrection? Those who advocate this position, called soul sleep, base it on passages such as 1 Thessalonians 4:13–18. But it should be noted that “sleep” as used here is euphemistic. It is not meant to convey actual sleep. In fact, the experience of the believer after death and before the end of the age when Christ returns is conscious, blissful communion with the Lord. Paul hints at this in 2 Corinthians 5:6–8 and Philippians 1:23.

At death, the body lies in repose in the grave awaiting the resurrection of the last day, but the soul goes to be at home with the Lord. This is the doctrine of the intermediate state. Believers experience in a provisional sense the rewards that await them in heaven, while unbelievers experience a taste of their eternal torment in hell (Luke 16:19–31). <G72>

1 Thessalonians 4:13-14 NIV

Brothers and sisters, we do not want you to be uninformed about those who sleep in death, so that you do not grieve like the rest of mankind, who have no hope. [14] For we believe that Jesus died and rose again, and so we believe that God will bring with Jesus those who have fallen asleep in him.

** Our service to the Lord should never lack in spiritual fervor and zeal

Romans 12:11 NIV

[11] Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord.

** Believers will be raised from the dead and experience eternal life; death is temporary, as we learned in the book of Revelation, and eventually we will meet Him in the air with new bodies

Psalm 73:25-28 NIV

[25] Whom have I in heaven but you? And earth has nothing I desire besides you. [26] My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever. [27] Those who are far from you will perish; you destroy all who are unfaithful to you. [28] But as for me, it is good to be near God. I have made the Sovereign Lord my refuge; I will tell of all your deeds.

- when we realize our flesh and heart will fail, we will come to the same conclusion as Peter asking, "to whom will we go?"

- in response, God will give us the strength for our journey

** God is Lord over death as His resurrection proved

Luke 8:49-51,54-55 NIV

[49] While Jesus was still speaking, someone came from the house of Jairus, the synagogue leader. “Your daughter is dead,” he said. “Don’t bother the teacher anymore.” [50] Hearing this, Jesus said to Jairus, “Don’t be afraid; just believe, and she will be healed.” [51] When he arrived at the house of Jairus, he did not let anyone go in with him except Peter, John and James, and the child’s father and mother. [54] But he took her by the hand and said, “My child, get up!” [55] Her spirit returned, and at once she stood up. Then Jesus told them to give her something to eat.

** What do the people's actions say about their hearts? In the story of Luke 7, we have:

a) one women with a reputation in town who recognized (along with others in the community) her sin and saw Christ who is able to forgive her sins, contrasted with

b) Simon (the host who invited Jesus) had an inflated attitude about himself who was proud of his righteousness because of his observance of the law, not respectful of Jesus as a great teacher and not in need of forgiveness

The heart attitude needs to be gratitude! All we have to do is remember Christ dying in the cross for our sin and ask Him fog forgiveness of our sins

Luke 7:37-38,44-47 NIV

[37] A woman in that town who lived a sinful life learned that Jesus was eating at the Pharisee’s house, so she came there with an alabaster jar of perfume. [38] As she stood behind him at his feet weeping, she began to wet his feet with her tears. Then she wiped them with her hair, kissed them and poured perfume on them. [44] Then he turned toward the woman and said to Simon, “Do you see this woman? I came into your house. You did not give me any water for my feet, but she wet my feet with her tears and wiped them with her hair. [45] You did not give me a kiss, but this woman, from the time I entered, has not stopped kissing my feet. [46] You did not put oil on my head, but she has poured perfume on my feet. [47] Therefore, I tell you, her many sins have been forgiven---as her great love has shown. But whoever has been forgiven little loves little.”

** The angel announces that Christ is risen and instructs the women to share the news with the disciples; Jesus' appearance confirms this announcement

Matthew 28:5-8 NIV

[5] The angel said to the women, “Do not be afraid, for I know that you are looking for Jesus, who was crucified. [6] He is not here; he has risen, just as he said. Come and see the place where he lay. [7] Then go quickly and tell his disciples: ‘He has risen from the dead and is going ahead of you into Galilee. There you will see him.’ Now I have told you.” [8] So the women hurried away from the tomb, afraid yet filled with joy, and ran to tell his disciples.

Matthew 28:9-10 NIV

[9] Suddenly Jesus met them. “Greetings,” he said. They came to him, clasped his feet and worshiped him. [10] Then Jesus said to them, “Do not be afraid. Go and tell my brothers to go to Galilee; there they will see me.”

** There is nothing to live for when only living for this world, for then there is no hope of resurrection (eternity) for those have already died; all believers can experience the power of Christ’s resurrection

1 Corinthians 15:32b NIV

If the dead are not raised, “Let us eat and drink, for tomorrow we die.”

Philippians 3:10-11 NIV

I want to know Christ---yes, to know the power of his resurrection and participation in his sufferings, becoming like him in his death, [11] and so, somehow, attaining to the resurrection from the dead.

1 Corinthians 15:42-44 NIV

So will it be with the resurrection of the dead. The body that is sown is perishable, it is raised imperishable; [43] it is sown in dishonor, it is raised in glory; it is sown in weakness, it is raised in power; [44] it is sown a natural body, it is raised a spiritual body. If there is a natural body, there is also a spiritual body.

1 Corinthians 15:52,55 NIV

in a flash, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet. For the trumpet will sound, the dead will be raised imperishable, and we will be changed. [55] “Where, O death, is your victory? Where, O death, is your sting?”

** Jesus demonstrates that He is Lord over death by raising a child from death

Mark 5:38-42 NIV

[38] When they came to the home of the synagogue leader, Jesus saw a commotion, with people crying and wailing loudly. [39] He went in and said to them, “Why all this commotion and wailing? The child is not dead but asleep.” [40] But they laughed at him. After he put them all out, he took the child’s father and mother and the disciples who were with him, and went in where the child was. [41] He took her by the hand and said to her, “Talitha koum!” (which means “Little girl, I say to you, get up!”). [42] Immediately the girl stood up and began to walk around (she was twelve years old). At this they were completely astonished.

** Christ is with us everyday, always

Matthew 28:20 NIV

[20] And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”

** God will save the elect (some say after the tribulation) with the return of the Son of God

Mark 13:26-27 NIV

[26] “At that time people will see the Son of Man coming in clouds with great power and glory. [27] And he will send his angels and gather his elect from the four winds, from the ends of the earth to the ends of the heavens.

** God promises His followers eternal life

Titus 1:2 NIV

in the hope of eternal life, which God, who does not lie, promised before the beginning of time,

1 John 2:25 NIV

And this is what he promised us---eternal life.

** God's word will never pass away, despite the efforts by some; Scripture is still the 'best seller' in today's market

Matthew 24:35 NIV

Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will never pass away.

** Believers in the Kingdom of Heaven will be greater than the most high prophets on earth; even those who are among the least

Matthew 11:11 NIV

Truly I tell you, among those born of women there has not risen anyone greater than John the Baptist; yet whoever is least in the kingdom of heaven is greater than he.

** Through the blood of Christ we can have our sins forgiven

Revelation 1:5b NIV

To him who loves us and has freed us from our sins by his blood,

** An everlasting inheritance awaits us in heaven for those who have faith in Him and endure hardship

1 Peter 1:4-5 NIV

and into an inheritance that can never perish, spoil or fade. This inheritance is kept in heaven for you, [5] who through faith are shielded by God’s power until the coming of the salvation that is ready to be revealed in the last time.

1 Peter 1:6-7 NIV

In all this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while you may have had to suffer grief in all kinds of trials. [7] These have come so that the proven genuineness of your faith---of greater worth than gold, which perishes even though refined by fire---may result in praise, glory and honor when Jesus Christ is revealed.

1 Peter 1:13 NIV

Therefore, with minds that are alert and fully sober, set your hope on the grace to be brought to you when Jesus Christ is revealed at his coming.

** Darkness that covered the earth, along with other occurrences such as dead prophets being brought to life, must have been terrifying for observers at the time

• The darkness was not due to a natural eclipse so it was evident God abhorred the wickedness at that time

• Raising prophets to life indicated Christ's conquering over death, for all followers in due time!

• Even the hardened Roman soldiers were terrified, saying “Surely He was the Son of God!”

Matthew 27:45 NIV

[45] From noon until three in the afternoon darkness came over all the land.

Matthew 27:51-54 NIV

[51] At that moment the curtain of the temple was torn in two from top to bottom. The earth shook, the rocks split [52] and the tombs broke open. The bodies of many holy people who had died were raised to life. [53] They came out of the tombs after Jesus’ resurrection and went into the holy city and appeared to many people. [54] When the centurion and those with him who were guarding Jesus saw the earthquake and all that had happened, they were terrified, and exclaimed, “Surely he was the Son of God!”

** Do not move from the hope available to you that is presented in the Gospel.

Colossians 1:23 NIV

if you continue in your faith, established and firm, and do not move from the hope held out in the gospel. This is the gospel that you heard and that has been proclaimed to every creature under heaven, and of which I, Paul, have become a servant.

Colossians 2:6-8 NIV

So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live your lives in him, [7] rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness. [8] See to it that no one takes you captive through hollow and deceptive philosophy, which depends on human tradition and the elemental spiritual forces of this world rather than on Christ.

** What we can expect after this life on earth

2 Peter 3:13 NIV

But in keeping with his promise we are looking forward to a new heaven and a new earth, where righteousness dwells.

** Jesus addresses the Saducees who asked Him about a situation with seven brothers and rules regarding marriage at resurrection; Jesus informs the crowd that no one will be married when rising from the dead but, rather, we will be like angels

Mark 12:25 NIV

[25] When the dead rise, they will neither marry nor be given in marriage; they will be like the angels in heaven.

** Concert of the age; sea of faces from every tribe/nation and nation, worshiping our Lord and Maker

Revelation 7:9-10 NIV

After this I looked, and there before me was a great multitude that no one could count, from every nation, tribe, people and language, standing before the throne and before the Lamb. They were wearing white robes and were holding palm branches in their hands. [10] And they cried out in a loud voice: “Salvation belongs to our God, who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb.”

Revelation 7:11-12 NIV

All the angels were standing around the throne and around the elders and the four living creatures. They fell down on their faces before the throne and worshiped God, [12] saying: “Amen! Praise and glory and wisdom and thanks and honor and power and strength be to our God for ever and ever. Amen!”

** The multitudes in white robes have come from the great tribulation, sanctified by the blood of Christ

Revelation 7:13-14 NIV

Then one of the elders asked me, “These in white robes---who are they, and where did they come from?” [14] I answered, “Sir, you know.” And he said, “These are they who have come out of the great tribulation; they have washed their robes and made them white in the blood of the Lamb.

D15.

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